South Africa: President to attend SADC extraordinary organ troika summit

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus and Force Intervention Brigade Troop Contributing Countries in Namibia today.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise, Minister in the Presidency responsible for State Security Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Candith Mashego-Dlamini.

The President will participate in the summit in his capacity as outgoing Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.

According to the Presidency, the summit is a follow up to the Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit also held in Namibia in January this year which considered the security situation in the SADC region.

The Extraordinary Summit Plus is expected to receive an update on the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and consider a report of the SADC Field Assessment Mission to Eastern DRC on the deployment of the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) - Force Intervention Brigade (FIB).

The Summit will also discuss a SADC common position to guide the regions engagement at the envisaged Tripartite Summit on the coordination of interventions and multiple deployments in the Eastern DRC.

The insecurity in the Eastern DRC has been receiving sharp focus of the SADC, the African Union, and other regional mechanisms, the Presidency said.

The statement said the summits outcomes are expected to contribute to continental efforts aimed at finding a coordinated and lasting solution to the insecurity in the eastern DRC.

The summit will be preceded by the meetings of the Senior Officials and Ministerial Committee of the Organ Troika Plus, respectively, the statement said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Serbia, China mark 24th anniversary of embassy bombing by NATO

Xinhua) 08:22, May 08, 2023

Representatives from Chinese enterprises mourn in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

BELGRADE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Serbians and the Chinese gathered at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade on Sunday to mark the 24th anniversary of the killing of three Chinese journalists in the 1999 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) aggression on Yugoslavia.

China's Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo, Serbian Minister of Sport Zoran Gajic, and dozens of officials and civilians laid wreaths and flowers at the memorial monument to honor the victims -- Shao Yunhuan of Xinhua News Agency, and Xu Xinghu and his wife Zhu Ying of the Guangming Daily newspaper.

Gajic said that the Chinese Embassy bombing was a cowardly act conducted by the NATO aggressors, "in order to plant the seed of evil."

"It is upon us to remember and recall and pray for all of those people who lost their lives, and also to pray for those who survived, and let them come to their senses, so we could pursue a brighter future, and become a happier humankind," Gajic said.

Chen said that the martyrs of the bombing were "brutally killed," but that 24 years later, a growing trend of peaceful development brings hope to humanity.

"Twenty-four years have passed, the international situation has undergone tremendous changes, and China and the world have also undergone earth-shaking changes. Although power politics and hegemonism are still the most profound root causes of today's world turmoil, the forces committed to peaceful development are getting stronger and stronger," she said.

"Now more and more countries and people agree on the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind. I firmly believe that more and more countries and people will unite and work together to build a world of lasting peace and common prosperity," Chen said.

The NATO bombing of Yugoslavia started on March 24, 1999. Over the course of 78 days, 2,500 people were killed and thousands of people more were wounded, while 25,000 homes and a third of the country's energy sector were destroyed -- often by illegal weapons such as cluster bombs and depleted uranium warheads.

On May 7, 1999, U.S.-led NATO forces carried out a brutal missile attack on the former Chinese Embassy in Belgrade, which left three journalists working there dead, more than 20 people injured, and the embassy building severely damaged.

In the place of the ruined embassy building now stands a brand new Chinese Cultural Centre, overlooking two memorial monuments that memorialize the tragedy that took place here 24 years ago.

People holding flowers mourn the victims at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Representatives from Chinese enterprises make a bow in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Serbian Minister of Sport Zoran Gajic and China's Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo mourn in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

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In a press conference, the Secretary of State for Public Health, Carlos Alberto Pinto, said that Angola welcomes the WHO declaration, which means a victory of health professionals, scientific community and all other actors, with emphasis to the whole population that has consented to countless sacrifices.

Carlos Alberto Pinto said that vaccination was a crucial element for the control of the emergency phase of the pandemic at a global level so far.

Therefore, he will continue to promote the vaccination against Covid-19 in the country as a primary strategy for the control of the disease in order to save lives, lower the number of severe cases and deaths that are still being registered in the country, said the Angolan Secretary of State for Public Health.

The minister stressed that, currently, vaccination coverage in Angola is 47% with at least two doses, stressing that for it to be effective in group immunity it must, according to the WHO, be above 85%, this being the countrys challenge for which everyone is called to participate.

The Ministry of Health will adapt the countrys contingency plan to the WHOs long-term covid-19 management plan 2023-2025, in which it will adopt additional recommendations for this transition phase to the current measures according to the countrys epidemiological situation and vaccination coverage, he stressed.

In this sense, Carlos Alberto Pinto made an appeal, once again, to the population to adhere to vaccination, because it saves lives and allows the WHO to reduce the alert level.

Angola notified the first two cases of Covid-19 on March 21, 2020, having registered 105,669 cases and 1,936 deaths until May 05 of this year, having gone through four waves caused by the variants of global concern. Carlos Alberto Pinto praised the Angolan health system for having withstood the pressure of the demand, without ever collapsing, guaranteeing the continuity of health services to the population.

On March 02, 2021, Angola incorporated the implementation of the Vaccination Plan, which was crucial for the considered successful management of the pandemic in what concerns the number of severe cases and deaths, indicated Carlos Alberto Pinto.

In light of this history, the Ministry of Health takes good note of the WHO Director-Generals warnings in his statement regarding caution and prudence in handling this news, he noted, emphasizing that the process of the transition from the emergency to the Covid-19 control phase is already underway.
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Training and prediction of pancreatic cancer risk from disease trajectories. a, Learning: The general ML workflow starts with partitioning the data into a training set (Train), a development set (Dev) and a test set (Test). The trajectories for training input are generated by sampling continuous subsequences of diagnoses for each patients diagnosis history, each starting with the first record but with different endpoints. The training and development sets are used for training so as to minimize the prediction errorthat is, the difference between a risk score function (prediction) and a step function (observation), summed over all instances. Prediction: A models ability to accurately predict is evaluated using the withheld test set. The prediction model, depending on the prediction threshold selected from among possible operational points, discriminates between patients at higher and lower risk of pancreatic cancer. The risk model can guide the development of surveillance initiatives. b, The model trained with real-world clinical data has three steps: embedding, encoding and prediction. The embedding machine transforms categorical disease codes and timestamps of these disease codes into a lower-dimensional real number continuous space. The encoding machine extracts information from a disease history and summarizes each sequence in a characteristic fingerprint in the latent space (vertical vector). The prediction machine then uses the fingerprint to generate predictions for cancer occurrence within different time intervals after the time of assessment (3, 6, 12, 36 and 60 months). The model parameters are trained by minimizing the difference between the predicted and the observed cancer occurrence. c, Terminology for timepoints and intervals. The last event of a disease trajectory coincides with the time of assessment. From the time of assessment, cancer risk is assessed within 3, 6, 12, 36 and 60 months. To test the influence of close-to-cancer diagnosis codes on the prediction of cancer occurrence, exclusion intervals are used to remove diagnoses in the last 3, 6 and 12 months before cancer diagnosis. Credit: Nature Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02332-5

An artificial intelligence tool has successfully identified people at the highest risk for pancreatic cancer up to three years before diagnosis using solely the patients' medical records, according to new research led by investigators at Harvard Medical School and the University of Copenhagen, in collaboration with VA Boston Healthcare System, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

The findings, published May 8 in Nature Medicine, suggest that AI-based population screening could be valuable in finding those at elevated risk for the disease and could expedite the diagnosis of a condition found all too often at advanced stages when treatment is less effective and outcomes are dismal, the researchers said. Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers in the world, and its toll projected to increase.

Currently, there are no population-based tools to screen broadly for pancreatic cancer. Those with a family history and certain genetic mutations that predispose them to pancreatic cancer are screened in a targeted fashion. But such targeted screenings can miss other cases that fall outside of those categories, the researchers said.

"One of the most important decisions clinicians face day to day is who is at high risk for a disease, and who would benefit from further testing, which can also mean more invasive and more expensive procedures that carry their own risks," said study co-senior investigator Chris Sander, faculty member in the Department of Systems Biology in the Blavatnik Institute at HMS. "An AI tool that can zero in on those at highest risk for pancreatic cancer who stand to benefit most from further tests could go a long way toward improving clinical decision-making."

Applied at scale, Sander added, such an approach could expedite detection of pancreatic cancer, lead to earlier treatment, and improve outcomes and prolong patients' life spans.

"Many types of cancer, especially those hard to identify and treat early, exert a disproportionate toll on patients, families and the healthcare system as a whole," said study co-senior investigator Sren Brunak, professor of disease systems biology and director of research at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research at the University of Copenhagen. "AI-based screening is an opportunity to alter the trajectory of pancreatic cancer, an aggressive disease that is notoriously hard to diagnose early and treat promptly when the chances for success are highest."

In the new study, the AI algorithm was trained on two separate data sets totaling 9 million patient records from Denmark and the United States. The researchers "asked" the AI model to look for telltale signs based on the data contained in the records. Based on combinations of disease codes and the timing of their occurrence, the model was able to predict which patients are likely to develop pancreatic cancer in the future. Notably, many of the symptoms and disease codes were not directly related to or stemming from the pancreas.

The researchers tested different versions of the AI models for their ability to detect people at elevated risk for disease development within different time scales6 months, one year, two years, and three years.

Overall, each version of the AI algorithm was substantially more accurate at predicting who would develop pancreatic cancer than current population-wide estimates of disease incidencedefined as how often a condition develops in a population over a specific period of time. The researchers said they believe the model is at least as accurate in predicting disease occurrence as are current genetic sequencing tests that are usually available only for a small subset of patients in data sets.

The 'angry organ'

Screening for certain common cancers such as those of the breast, cervix, and prostate gland relies on relatively simple and highly effective techniquesa mammogram, a Pap smear, and a blood test, respectively. These screening methods have transformed outcomes for these diseases by ensuring early detection and intervention during the most treatable stages.

By comparison, pancreatic cancer is harder and more expensive to screen and test for. Physicians look mainly at family history and the presence of genetic mutations, which, while important indicators of future risk, often miss many patients. One particular advantage of the AI tool is that it could be used on any and all patients for whom health records and medical history are available, not just in those with known family history or genetic predisposition for the disease.

This is especially important, the researchers add, because many patients at high risk may not even be aware of their genetic predisposition or family history.

In the absence of symptoms and without a clear indication that someone is at high risk for pancreatic cancer, clinicians may be understandably cautious to recommend more sophisticated and more expensive testing, such as CT scans, MRI or endoscopic ultrasound. When these tests are used and suspicious lesions discovered, the patient must undergo a procedure to obtain a biopsy. Positioned deep inside the abdomen, the organ is hard to access and easy to provoke and inflame. Its irritability has earned it the moniker "the angry organ."

An AI tool that identifies those at the highest risk for pancreatic cancer would ensure that clinicians test the right population, while sparing others unnecessary testing and additional procedures, the researchers said.

About 44 percent of people diagnosed in the early stages of pancreatic cancer survive five years after diagnosis, but only 12 percent of cases are diagnosed that early. The survival rate drops to 2 to 9 percent in those whose tumors have grown beyond their site of origin, researchers estimate.

"That low survival rate is despite marked advances in surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy," Sander said. "So, in addition to sophisticated treatments, there is a clear need for better screening, more targeted testing, and earlier diagnosis, and this where the AI-based approach comes in as the first critical step in this continuum."

Previous diagnoses portend future risk

For the current study, the researchers designed several versions of the AI model and trained them on the health records of 6.2 million patients from Denmark's national health system spanning 41 years. Of those patients, 23,985 developed pancreatic cancer over time. During the training, the algorithm discerned patterns indicative of future pancreatic cancer risk based on disease trajectories, that is, whether the patient had certain conditions that occurred in a certain sequence over time.

For example, diagnoses such as gallstones, anemia, type 2 diabetes, and other GI-related problems portended greater risk for pancreatic cancer within 3 years of evaluation. Less surprisingly, inflammation of the pancreas was strongly predictive of future pancreatic cancer within an even shorter time span of two years.

The researchers caution that none of these diagnoses by themselves should be deemed indicative or causative of future pancreatic cancer. However, the pattern and sequence in which they occur over time offer clues for an AI-based surveillance model and could prompt physicians to monitor those at elevated risk more closely or test accordingly.

Next, the researchers tested the best performing algorithm on an entirely new set of patient records it had not previously encountereda U.S. Veterans Health Administration data set of nearly 3 million records spanning 21 years and containing 3,864 individuals diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The tool's predictive accuracy was somewhat lower on the US data set.

This was most likely because the US dataset was collected over a shorter time and contained a somewhat different patient population profilesthe entire population of Denmark in the Danish data set versus current and former military personnel in the Veterans' Affairs data set. When the algorithm was retrained from scratch on the US dataset, its predictive accuracy improved.

This, the researchers said, underscores two important points: First, ensuring that AI models are trained on high quality and rich data. Second, the need for access to large representative datasets of clinical records aggregated nationally and internationally. In the absence of such globally valid models, AI models should be trained on local health data to ensure their training reflects the idiosyncrasies of local populations.

More information: Sren Brunak, A deep learning algorithm to predict risk of pancreatic cancer from disease trajectories, Nature Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-023-02332-5. www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02332-5 Journal information: Nature Medicine
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Credit: Gorodenkoff/shutterstock.com

The Adelaide Score, the brainchild of researchers at the University of Adelaide, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and the Health and Information (HI) collaborative, could be tested in South Australian hospitals later this year, following an extensive study which examined the performance of machine learning algorithms.

Dr. Joshua Kovoor, a Ph.D. Candidate in the Discipline of Surgery at the University of Adelaide and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, said hospital stays of almost 9,000 South Australian general surgery patients were analyzed in the study.

The machine learning algorithms correctly predicted the discharge of general surgery patients within 12 and 24 hours with more than 80% accuracy.

"Currently, no tool accurately predicts patient discharge in real-time within the Australian health care system," Dr. Kovoor said.

"We hope the Adelaide Score will streamline and simplify discharge planning after surgery for everyone in the health care system, including doctors, nurses and most importantly the patient and their loved ones.

"The Adelaide Score involves artificial intelligence algorithms. With proper training, the more it is used, the more accurate it will become in predicting patient discharge times."

Dr. Kovoor said the study referenced tens of thousands of ward round note timings, and included inputs including vital signs and data from blood tests.

"Because the Adelaide Score uses objective inputs, it can be implemented in any hospital around the world, potentially delivering extraordinary cost savings," Dr. Kovoor said.

"The Adelaide Score could one day be integrated into a patient's electronic medical record or accessed via an app.

"We hope the Adelaide Score will be a mainstay of every Australian hospital within the next decade."

Professor Guy Maddern, Head of Discipline of Surgery at the University of Adelaide's Adelaide Medical School, and a hepatobiliary surgeon at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, said the aim of the project was to draw on existing data and maximize its benefits for patient care.

"This project has the potential to be a game-changer in helping to identify capacity in hospital beds in not only in South Australia, but in hospitals around the world," Professor Maddern said.

"Health systems everywhere are under increasing pressure to meet demand, which makes an initiative like the Adelaide Score all the more important."
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Despite global efforts to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, oil and gas (O&G) production is nearing record levels in the United States, posing concern among health experts about what this O&G growth means for air quality and human health. These health impacts affected communities in states with high oil and gas production, as well as states with limited or no gas activity, underlining the need for comprehensive regulatory action to protect Americans from the pollutants generated by this sector.

While there is extensive research on the climate effects of O&G-produced methanea key contributor to air pollutionfew studies have measured the health effects of the air pollution that O&G activity generates.

A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH), the University of North Carolina Institute for the Environment (UNC-IE), PSE Healthy Energy, and Environmental Defense Fund fills this gap.

Published in the journal Environmental Research: Health, the study found that air pollution from the oil and gas sector in the United States has substantial adverse impacts on air quality, human health, and health costs.

The findings show that the pollutants nitrogen oxide (NO 2 ), fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) and ozone (O 3 ) from U.S. oil and gas production contributed to 7,500 excess deaths, 410,000 asthma attacks, and 2,200 new cases of childhood asthma across the U.S. in 2016. Factoring in related respiratory and cardiovascular-related hospitalizations, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and other health challenges, oil and gas production was responsible for $77 billion in annual health costs. Comparatively, this total is three times the estimated climate impact costs of methane emissions from oil and gas operations.

These impacts were largely concentrated in areas with significant oil and gas production, such as southwest Pennsylvania, Texas, and Eastern Colorado. But the health effects also extended into densely populated cities with little or no gas activity, such as Chicago, New York City, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Orlando.

The study results suggest that O&G emissions reduction policies, such as the forthcoming EPA methane regulations, may produce immediate and significant air quality benefits to human health along with significant climate benefits. The researchers urge policymakers to consider these "co-benefits" in future emissions reduction strategies. They also stress that strategies that focus on end-of-pipe pollution controls during combustionsuch as in power plants, vehicles, buildings, and industryare only addressing part of the problem.

"These substantial impacts from oil and gas production show that there are serious consequences across the full life cycle of oil and gas, from 'well to wheels,' 'well to power plant,' and 'well to furnace,'" says study corresponding author Jonathan Buonocore, assistant professor of environmental health at BUSPH. "The health impacts are not just from the combustion of oil and gas. In order for energy, air quality, and decarbonization policies to successfully protect health, they need to incorporate health impacts across this full life cycle."

The five states with the highest impacts from O&G pollution were Texas, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Louisiana were those with significant oil and gas activity. However, Illinois and New Yorkstates that produce very little O&Gstill landed in the sixth and eighth spots.

"The fact that air pollution and health impacts cross state boundaries indicates a strong need for regional to nationwide coordination," says study senior author Saravanan Arunachalam, research professor at UNC-IE. "States that have the highest emissions are not necessarily always the ones with the highest health risk due to these emissions, although Texas ranks first in both."

A novelty of this modeling framework is the inclusion of health impacts of NO 2 , and the use of an advanced model that better captures the chemistry of emissions from the oil & gas sector. Among the three pollutants, NO 2 was the highest contributor to the overall health impacts, producing 37% of these effects, followed by ozone at 35%, and PM 2.5 at 28%. The vast majority of these effects pertained to mortality.

NO 2 contributes to the formation of PM 2.5 and ozone, so strategies to reduce O&G-produced NO 2 could be effective in reducing health impacts. State regulations addressing precursor NO 2 emissions from the oil and gas sector could help mitigate childhood asthma cases for communities living in proximity to the emission sources, and provide secondary ozone and PM 2.5 health benefits in downwind areas.

"Curbing oil and gas emissions is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to reduce methane and other air pollutants, which improves air quality, protects public health and slows climate change," says study co-author Ananya Roy, senior health scientist at EDF.

"It's critical that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency strengthen and finalize its proposed oil and gas methane rules as quickly as possible. These proposed rules should build from leading state approaches in Colorado and New Mexico and go further to end pollution from the practice of routine flaring."

The authors say future studies should focus on learning more about health impacts across the full life cycle of O&G production, as well as the benefits of additional O&G pollution control strategies.

"There are technologies and strategies to reduce methane leaks, emissions from compressor stations, or emissions from other sources, such as ponds and dehydrators," Buonocore says. "Each of these strategies will have different effects on the levels of different pollutants that get emitted."

There is also more work to be done to quantify the health impacts of emissions that the study did not examine, such as benzene and formaldehyde, Arunachalam notes. "Exposure to these pollutants which have been detected near oil and gas wells can cause cancer and several other adverse health impacts, and quantifying them will demonstrate even higher public health benefits of controlling emissions from this sector."

More information: Air Pollution and Health Impacts of Oil & Gas Production in the United States, Environmental Research: Health (2023). dx.doi.org/10.1088/2752-5309/acc886
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Overview of the training process for optimizing linear combination parameters. Credit: Health Data Science (2023). DOI: 10.34133/hds.0011

An effective strategy for mapping Chinese medical entities to the Unified Medical Language System (UMLS) has been described in a recent study. In addition, the study has established an evaluation dataset based on real-world data for linking Chinese medical entities to systems in other languages.

The results were published in Health Data Science.

UMLS is one of the well-developed medical terminology systems that make up the cornerstone of health informatics research and technologies. However, the lack of a high-quality Chinese medical ontology makes it challenging to process medical texts and documents for computation.

"To overcome this challenge, we sought to identify the optimal approach for mapping Chinese medical entities to UMLS concepts in the current stage," said Taijiao Jiang, author and professor at Guangzhou Laboratory (GL), Guangzhou Medical University, China. "With this strategy in place, it is now feasible to normalize medical entities across different languages."

"The study investigated three mapping methods, namely a string-based, a semantic-based, and a string and semantic similarity-combined strategy," shared Lizong Deng, coauthor and associate professor at Institute of Systems Medicine (ISM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, China. "In addition, cross-lingual pre-trained language models were applied."

"We leveraged character-level and semantic-level similarity using a linear combination method, with the help of multi-source translation and a pre-trained language model to map Chinese medical entities to UMLS, an important basis for a well-organized terminology system," explained Luming Chen, coauthor at GL. "This linear combination strategy demonstrated the best performance on the cross-lingual medical entity linking task despite inadequately developed Chinese medical terminology systems."

Further, the reported method can be applied to downstream tasks to automatically map Chinese medical terms to standard UMLS concepts, thereby facilitating fine-grained medical knowledge representation and other advanced intelligent medical applications.

Moreover, by tapping web-based translation engines, the described approach can be used in mapping non-English entities to UMLS, thus extending UMLS's coverage. In return, the UMLS with multilingual components expedites using medical informatics tools in other languages.

"To further validate the results of the mapping strategies on a larger and more diverse dataset, we will establish a new cross-lingual dataset that covers a wider range of semantic types in medical terminology," said Yifan Qi, coauthor at ISM. "We will investigate the limitations of the mapping strategies, including cases where the translations are inaccurate or when there is a lack of English counterparts in the UMLS."

The main goal for future research is to develop a desirable language model that fully integrates medical concepts at the string and semantic levels.

Finally, the ultimate goal is to fine tune cross-lingual medical entity linking and integrate the mapping strategy into the development of Chinese medical ontology.

More information: Luming Chen et al, Mapping Chinese Medical Entities to the Unified Medical Language System, Health Data Science (2023). DOI: 10.34133/hds.0011

Provided by Health Data Science
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Eight times as many babies were born with syphilis in Colorado in 2022 as in 2017, and while the numbers are still small, the public health community is racing to get the disease under control.

Untreated syphilis during pregnancy can cause miscarriages, stillbirth or infant death; premature birth; low birthweight; and disabilities, including deafness or blindness. Some babies appear healthy at birth, but get sick from congenital syphilis in the following weeks.

Colorado's five-year increase, from four cases in 2017 to a preliminary count of 34 in 2022, is part of a nationwide trendone that's almost entirely preventable. State law requires that everyone get tested for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection, during their first prenatal visit, and prompt antibiotic treatment can prevent complications.

"One case is one case too many," said Lacy Mulleavey, prevention and field services program manager for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. "We need to act quickly on this."

The health department reported a preliminary count of 3,056 syphilis cases of all types in Colorado last year, which was about a 33% increase compared to the previous year.

Nationwide data for 2022 isn't available yet, but cases rose 32% from 2020 to 2021, reaching more than 176,000. Congenital syphilis affected more than 2,800 babies in 2021an increase of almost one-third, and the highest rate since 1993. About 220 of those babies were stillborn or died in infancy.

From 2011 to 2015, rates of syphilis among women between 15 and 44 were relatively stable nationwide, but they began rising sharply in the second half of the decade. Some epidemiologists think the rise in infections among women reflects increases in injection drug use, as well as related factors that raise risk, like homelessness, HIV infection and trading sex for drugs or money.

While the majority of syphilis cases still affect menparticularly those who report they had male sexual partnerscases in women of reproductive age rose about twice as fast as overall cases, Mulleavey said. Some of the increase is due to a greater emphasis on testing, she said, because, until recent years, women generally weren't screened for syphilis in the way they were for chlamydia and gonorrhea.

There's a special emphasis on preventing and treating syphilis in women of reproductive age because of the potential harm to infants, but it's also a serious threat to men, Mulleavey said.

Most people don't develop serious complications until they've been infected for decades, but the bacteria can invade the nervous system at any point, particularly if a person has a compromised immune system, she said. Neurosyphilis can cause strokes and loss of hearing or vision.

"We have put in a ton of effort to increase provider awareness and community awareness that syphilis is still around," she said.

More screening urged in pregnancy

On April 10, Colorado's health department issued an advisory to providers reminding them that congenital syphilis is still a threat, and encouraging them to screen all pregnant patients in the third trimester, as well as the first.

While third-trimester screening isn't required under state law, it represents another opportunity to find women who were infected or reinfected after their first screening, or who didn't receive early prenatal care, Mulleavey said. About one-quarter of women whose babies had congenital syphilis in 2022 were infected during their pregnancies.

The department also urged emergency rooms and urgent care centers to screen for syphilis if a patient has relevant symptoms, or reports risk factors for sexually transmitted infections, Mulleavey said. Fewer people have been seeking testing and treatment at designated sexual health clinics, and many of them are ending up in emergency rooms or urgent care instead, she said.

Syphilis is transmitted via contact with a sore known as a chancre, which can be small or in a location that's not easily visible. Condoms reduce the risk, but don't prevent all transmission.

At some point after the chancre heals, people typically have a rash, possibly with flu-like symptoms. The infection can then go silent for years. If left untreated, the bacteria can eventually invade the brain, heart and other organs.

Insurance plans cover screening for sexually transmitted infections, and people without insurance can get testing and treatment at a state-fund sexual health clinic or from some community groups that receive grants, Mulleavey said. People who want a more private experience can order an at-home test kit, she said.

The state budget for the upcoming year also includes additional funding to expand a pilot program in the Pueblo County jail. The program offers women of reproductive age a blood test for syphilis and treatment if it comes back positive.

In the state budget for the coming year, the program would receive about $1.2 million in new state funding, which is partially offset by the loss of $365,000 from the federal government. A narrative accompanying the state budget said that will allow it to expand into El Paso and Jefferson counties, though representatives for Jefferson County Public Health declined to discuss the program until the funding is finalized.

As of 2020, El Paso and Jefferson counties had total syphilis rates below the state average. The department was looking specifically at rates of syphilis among reproductive-age women, however, as well as which health departments had the capacity to take on a new initiative, Mulleavey said.

"Ideally, we would love to be able to continue to expand it," she said.

El Paso County Public Health released a statement saying it was "particularly concerned" by the more than 500% countwide increase in syphilis infections among women of reproductive age from 2018, when 12 tested positive, to 2022, when 73 did. Overall cases in El Paso County rose 176%, from 92 in 2018 to 254 in 2022. In that time, the county ranged between zero and four babies with congenital syphilis each year.

With the grant, it would be possible for the El Paso County department to test and treat pregnant women for syphilis, on top of continuing to offer education to health care providers and working with partners on outreach, the statement said.

"With this most recent funding, EPCPH looks forward to the opportunity to partner with state and local partners to continue targeted efforts to mitigate the impacts of syphilis in El Paso County," it said.

Need for a 'united front'

Pueblo County had the highest rate of syphilis cases among women of reproductive age in Colorado, with roughly four times the cases compared to its population as in Denver, as of 2020.

Alicia Solis, program manager at the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment, thinks the high rates reflect both improving detection and an increase in infections. Rates of HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhea also have risen, and people who haven't received education about sexual health don't know the symptoms of sexually transmitted infections or the importance of getting treatment, she said.

About 27% of the women tested in the Pueblo County Detention Center had syphilis, usually in a later stage when it isn't causing symptoms, Solis said. At that point, a patient needs three shots of penicillin, each given a week apart.

The county's public health nurse working in the jail and a disease intervention specialist from the state health department try to follow up with everyone who leaves the jail before completing treatment, but that can be a challenge, since some people don't give their real contact information, she said.

If they do find a patient, however, they can bring the shot to her and any sexual partners she identifies wherever they're most comfortable, including at home, Solis said.

"If they choose to meet at Loaf 'N Jug, we can do that," she said.

Medical officials at the Pueblo County jail said about 69% of women who test positive there ultimately complete their treatment. Staff in the jail try to educate patients about the long-term risks to their health and to any future children they might have, but treating a disease that isn't causing any symptoms at the moment often isn't someone's highest priority after leaving jail, officials said.

There are some signs that the program is helping, because Pueblo County had fewer congenital syphilis cases in the first quarter of 2023 than it did at the same time in the previous two years, Solis said. (The data hasn't been released yet.)

Still, it's going to take more than one initiative to bring rates down, Solis said, ideally, every young person would receive education about sexually transmitted infections, every doctor would test their sexually active patients and there would be more resources for those who don't have a regular place to seek care. The Pueblo health department offers sexual health lessons in some schools and partners with community organizations, but it's not the "united front" that's needed, she said.

"I'm hoping that if we're working on all these ends, we can reduce the rates," she said. "It's going to be a team effort."

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When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic in March 2020, laboratories and pharmaceutical companies were already developing vaccines, and Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), an arm of the Brazilian health ministry, began looking for partners to produce a vaccine against the disease in Brazil.

Fiocruz is Latin America's leading biomedical institution. From the outset, its team wanted a technology transfer agreement that would enable it to produce the entire vaccine at its Bio-Manguinhos facility in Rio de Janeiro. To achieve this goal, its prospecting was guided by criteria such as the stage reached by a prospective partner in developing a vaccine and its suitability to Brazil's vaccination infrastructure, as well as technological factors and manufacturing characteristics.

Technology transfer agreements concerning vaccines typically take ten years to be concluded, but Fiocruz negotiated an agreement with AstraZeneca in only ten months. Thanks to local production, the AstraZeneca formula represented more than 50% of the doses administered in Brazil at the height of the pandemic, when vaccines were needed and none were available on the world market.

"Technology transfer is easier said than done, even under normal circumstances and in a world without a pandemic. It's important to know how the partnership between Fiocruz and the Anglo-Swiss pharmaceutical company came about, as a case study with implications for future initiatives involving technology transfer for increased vaccine production in middle-income countries like Brazil," said Elize Massard da Fonseca, a professor at Getulio Vargas Foundation's Department of Public Administration (GEP-FGV) and first author of an article on the subject published in the journal Research Policy.

The case study shows how the Fiocruz-AstraZeneca partnership materialized and how this achievement at the height of a pandemic can be mined for strategies to assure successful technology transfer projects in future. It was part of two broader research projects supported by FAPESP and conducted in partnership with the London School of Economics (LSE) in the United Kingdom. Other articles have previously been published on the projects, as well as a book in which the researchers analyze the response to the pandemic in various countries.

The partnership between AstraZeneca and Fiocruz was not the only one that resulted in a supply of COVID-19 vaccines for Brazil. Butantan Institute, which belongs to the government of Sao Paulo state, entered into what is known as a fill-and-finish agreement with Sinovac Biotech to receive, package and distribute the vaccine produced by the Chinese pharmaceutical company.

Two Brazilian private-sector companies, Eurofarma and Uniao Quimica, signed technology transfer agreements regarding the BioNTech-Pfizer and Sputnik-V vaccines respectively, but neither has yet been produced in Brazil.

"Fiocruz was the only institution that negotiated a partnership involving actual technology transfer. The vaccine was entirely produced in Brazil. Another important feature was the licensing agreement enabling Fiocruz not only to produce the AstraZeneca vaccine but also to make modifications to it if necessary, including adaptations to combat novel variants of the virus," Fonseca told Agencia FAPESP.

In the case study, the researchers highlight key success factors in the partnership, such as Fiocruz's know-how in bioreactor cell culture and protein purification, which led AstraZeneca to see it as a valued partner; regulatory support and flexibility on the part of ANVISA, Brazil's health surveillance agency; and political factors such as agility, transparency, and the existence of a legal framework that permitted technology transfer for products still under development.

"The Fiocruz case is a standout for both speed and the magnitude of the challenge represented by the need to learn to implement novel technology in the midst of a pandemic, with disruption of supply chains everywhere. Their success was due to a combination of political skill, ANVISA's willingness to talk and adapt its approval procedures, and the existing capacity at Bio-Manguinhos to produce vaccines. Transparency and the existence of an appropriate regulatory framework were also very important factors," Fonseca said.

The negotiations on technology transfer took place, the authors note in the article, in the context of "Brazil's response to the COVID-19 pandemic [which] was characterized by former President Jair Bolsonaro's (2019-2022) anti-science approach, including his consistent downplaying of the health threats posed by SARS-CoV-2, his refusal to follow the WHO guidelines on non-pharmaceutical interventions [such as social distancing and face covering], and his attempts to discredit vaccination."

Fiocruz was "very skillful at diplomacy," Fonseca said. "The team were consensus builders and managed to win political support for BRL 2 billion in funding for the deal with AstraZeneca. In June 2020, members of Brazil's National Congress visited Bio-Manguinhos to see the plans for the vaccine factory firsthand. Talks were held about funds there and then. At the end of the day, the Bolsonaro administration authorized and funded the technology transfer deal, but it did so reluctantly in order to face off against Doria." Sao Paulo State Governor Joao Doria was then negotiating to buy the Chinese vaccine. "The time was ripe for Fiocruz to get backing from the federal government. It was in Brasilia's interest."

Building a consensus to back technology transfer is no easy task, she added. "Many important people and organizations don't see the point of transferring technology and producing locally rather than buying from the supplier with the lowest price. AstraZeneca's vaccine was the least expensive. Surprisingly, Covaxin [produced by Indian company Bharat Biotech] was one of the most expensive, costing more than ten dollars per dose, whereas AstraZeneca's cost a bit more than three dollars," she said.

Production capacity

The choice of vaccine was also a key success factor, Fonseca added. "It was in the interest of Oxford [University] and AstraZeneca to build a global production network, and Bio-Manguinhos was an important partner for them because it had the capacity in bioreactors and processes that suited the technology to be disseminated by the pharmaceutical company," she said. "Moreover, Fiocruz already had many years of experience with technology transfer and sufficient knowledge to adapt that company's processes."

Management at Bio-Manguinhos considered the vaccine developed by Oxford University (UK) in partnership with AstraZeneca particularly suitable because at the time it was at an advanced stage of development and used viral vector technology, which matched the Rio de Janeiro facility's existing competencies and infrastructure.

"They believed all this would also assure agility in the process of producing the vaccine here. Fiocruz prospected the world market very thoroughly at the start of the pandemic to find out which vaccines Bio-Manguinhos could be adapted for, technologically speaking. CoronaVac, for example, required a biosafety level 3 [BSL-3] laboratory, which Bio-Manguinhos didn't have and would have taken over a year to build," Fonesca said.

The vaccine marketed by Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) also used viral vector technology but at the time was in the early stages of development. The products offered by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna were even less suitable because they were mRNA vaccines. Their high adaptability was attractive, and they had reached an advanced stage of development, but they would have required construction of new infrastructure and development of new competencies, all of which would have been extremely challenging and time-consuming, especially in mid-pandemic.

"AstraZeneca's vaccine is a non-replicating viral vector vaccine, so the gains from technology transfer were huge. Bio-Manguinhos acquired the know-how to produce this technology and can use it in the long term to produce other vaccines or react faster to future epidemics. In the near term, the gain is being able to make adaptations to novel variants of concern," Fonseca said.

Buying a promise

Implementation of the AstraZeneca-Fiocruz technology transfer agreement began while the vaccine was still undergoing clinical trials and before it was approved for use by the general public. The Brazilian health ministry therefore had to use a specific solution called for by Brazilian law, which according to the researchers was an "order to commission technology" (ETEC in the Portuguese acronym), a procurement procedure whereby public-sector institutions can partner in the development of technologies for which regulatory approval is still pending. ETECs are legal under the 2004 Innovation Law, and the 2016 Science, Technology and Innovation Code.

"It's important to highlight the transparency of the entire process conducted by Fiocruz. We also point out the lessons to be learned for other contexts or situations requiring technology transfer, not only in Brazil and not just during a pandemic. It's crucial to build a political consensus, and the basis for this has to be transparency. This type of agreement in low- and middle-income countries with high levels of corruption is seen as risky. You're buying something that doesn't exist yet. That's why it was so important to have transparency and regulatory flexibility," Fonseca said.

More information: Elize Massard da Fonseca et al, Vaccine technology transfer in a global health crisis: Actors, capabilities, and institutions, Research Policy (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.respol.2023.104739
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The low-cost screening test developed by Rice University students identifies thyroid dysfunction in newborns and provides a clear, easy-to-interpret result. Credit: Team Test TSH/Rice University

For newborns with congenital hypothyroidism, early diagnosis spells the difference between a normal, healthy life and lifelong disability.

After learning about the heavy toll the disease takes on children born in parts of the world where testing is limited or absent, a team of Rice University students came together to develop a low-cost screening tool that can detect abnormally high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels indicative of dysfunction.

The point-of-care, paper-based test developed by team Test TSH members Alex David, Elise Erickson, Vanshika Jhonsa, Margaret Li and Alison Maniace "has the potential to impact the lives of thousands of people every year, especially in low-resource areas, allowing for early treatment and preventing the permanent disabilities that can result from untreated congenital hypothyroidism," according to Jasmine Nejad, the team's faculty mentor and a global health lecturer in the Rice360 Institute for Global Health Technologies.

Thyroid hormone is crucial to the development of infants' brain and nervous system and helps the heart, muscles and other organs function as they should. It also regulates how the body uses and stores energy and how it grows.

"At birth, babies with congenital hypothyroidism look normal, there's no obvious sign of this disorder, so the main roadblock to treatment in low-resource settings is the lack of widespread screening programs," Jhonsa said.

Taking inspiration from the design of the at-home COVID-19 test, the team came up with an easy-to-read test requiring only a small blood sample. They also created a 3-D-printed casing for portability and to reduce the risk of infection.

Jhonsa further explained that because the thyroid gland is underactive or absent in babies born with congenital hypothyroidism, their system will try to compensate by overproducing thyroid-stimulating hormone.

" Thyroxine (T4) is responsible for the development of all body systems, including brain development, muscle development and so on," Maniace said. "A lack of T4 early in life will cause irreversible developmental delays if left untreated, which is why early-life diagnosis is so crucial."

"In the U.S., newborns are by default screened for a lot of congenital diseases, hypothyroidism being one of them," Li said. "In low-resource settings, there's no infrastructure in place to conduct widespread testing for infants, making early diagnosis difficult both in terms of cost and access."

"Testing infrastructure in the U.S. can take up a lot of space and resources, since you'll typically have several technicians running these tests," David said. "The difference between $1 or even just a few cents for a test versus the requirements of having this kind of infrastructure in place is just huge."

Early diagnosis is critical for newborns with congenital hypothyroidism, but affordable and easy-to-access testing options are unavailable in many low-resource areas around the globe. Credit: Team Test TSH/Rice University

Nejad said the device "could also lower the cost for screening in general as well as offer an adaptable platform that could provide accessible screening for other types of thyroid dysfunction that can occur later in life."

"The beauty of this screening tool is that you can adapt it to test for different ages and even for other conditions," Jhonsa said.

The students' ability to draw from their diverse expertise in multiple fields of study earned them the Best Interdisciplinary Engineering Design Award at the George R. Brown School of Engineering's annual Huff OEDK Engineering Design Showcase held last month at the Ion. The team also won first place in the global health track of the Johns Hopkins Healthcare Design Competition and second place in the Rice360 Global Health Technologies Design Competition.

"Vanshika and Elise are social policy analysis majors, I'm in health care sciences, Alex is a biosciences major and Alison designed her own major," Li said. "We are a diverse group in terms of our background of study, and our project has an interdisciplinary aspect as well. We were working in the wet lab but also doing research on marketing and our target population."

The team's passion and drive compensated for its relative inexperience with the different aspects of the engineering design process.

"Since none of us are really engineers, being thrust into this new space was definitely challenging in the beginning," Jhonsa said. "But it was a great learning experience and it was very rewarding at the end to have a product that works."

Maniace added that it was "really inspiring to see that with a lot of passion for a project like this in global health we can actually have an impact."

Dr. Kristina Tebo, who initially pitched the idea, said she "was happy the project was accepted and am thrilled at how the team has brought it to life."

The team's clinical mentors were Dr. Selorm Dei-Tutu, assistant professor of pediatrics in the division of diabetes and endocrinology at Baylor College of Medicine and a practitioner at Texas Children's Hospital, and Tebo, assistant vice president of global health initiatives, assistant professor of pediatrics in the division of pediatric hospital medicine and co-director of the Pediatric Global Health Program at UTHealth Houston's McGovern Medical School.

"Our mentors and professors and everyone we've learned from have been incredible," David said. "The success we've had on this project really speaks to how much faculty cares about students and really puts effort into helping them see their projects through to the end."
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Much of the human genome is made of regulatory regions that control which genes are expressed at a given time within a cell. Those regulatory elements can be located near a target gene or up to 2 million base pairs away from the target.

To enable interactions, the genome loops itself in a 3D structure that brings distant regions close together. Using a new technique, MIT researchers have shown that they can map these interactions with 100 times higher resolution than has previously been possible.

"Using this method, we generate the highest-resolution maps of the 3D genome that have ever been generated, and what we see are a lot of interactions between enhancers and promoters that haven't been seen previously," says Anders Sejr Hansen, the Underwood-Prescott Career Development Assistant Professor of Biological Engineering at MIT and the senior author of the study. "We are excited to be able to reveal a new layer of 3D structure with our high resolution."

The researchers' findings suggest that many genes interact with dozens of different regulatory elements, although further study is needed to determine which of those interactions are the most important to the regulation of a given gene.

"Researchers can now affordably study the interactions between genes and their regulators, opening a world of possibilities not just for us but also for dozens of labs that have already expressed interest in our method," says Viraat Goel, an MIT graduate student and one of the lead authors of the paper. "We're excited to bring the research community a tool that help them disentangle the mechanisms driving gene regulation."

MIT postdoc Miles Huseyin is also a lead author of the paper, which appears today, May 8, in Nature Genetics.

High-resolution mapping

Scientists estimate that more than half of the genome consists of regulatory elements that control genes, which make up only about 2 percent of the genome. Genome-wide association studies, which link genetic variants with specific diseases, have identified many variants that appear in these regulatory regions. Determining which genes these regulatory elements interact with could help researchers understand how those diseases arise and, potentially, how to treat them.

Discovering those interactions requires mapping which parts of the genome interact with each other when chromosomes are packed into the nucleus. Chromosomes are organized into structural units called nucleosomesstrands of DNA tightly wound around proteinshelping the chromosomes fit within the small confines of the nucleus.

Over a decade ago, a team that included researchers from MIT developed a method called Hi-C, which revealed that the genome is organized as a "fractal globule," which allows the cell to tightly pack its DNA while avoiding knots. This architecture also allows the DNA to easily unfold and refold when needed.

To perform Hi-C, researchers use restriction enzymes to chop the genome into many small pieces and biochemically link pieces that are near each other in 3D space within the cell's nucleus. They then determine the identities of the interacting pieces by amplifying and sequencing them.

While Hi-C reveals a great deal about the overall 3D organization of the genome, it has limited resolution to pick out specific interactions between genes and regulatory elements such as enhancers. Enhancers are short sequences of DNA that can help to activate the transcription of a gene by binding to the gene's promoterthe site where transcription begins.

To achieve the resolution necessary to find these interactions, the MIT team built on a more recent technology called Micro-C, which was invented by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, led by Stanley Hsieh and Oliver Rando. Micro-C was first applied in budding yeast in 2015 and subsequently applied to mammalian cells in three papers published in Molecular Cell in 2019 and 2020 by researchers including Hansen, Hsieh, Rando and others at University of California at Berkeley and at UMass Medical School.

Micro-C achieves higher resolution than Hi-C by using an enzyme known as micrococcal nuclease to chop up the genome. Hi-C's restriction enzymes cut the genome only at specific DNA sequences that are randomly distributed, resulting in DNA fragments of varying and larger sizes. By contrast, micrococcal nuclease uniformly cuts the genome into nucleosome-sized fragments, each of which contains 150 to 200 DNA base pairs. This uniformity of small fragments grants Micro-C its superior resolution over Hi-C.

However, since Micro-C surveys the entire genome, this approach still doesn't achieve high enough resolution to identify the types of interactions the researchers wanted to see. For example, if you want to look at how 100 different genome sites interact with each other, you need to sequence at least 100 multiplied by 100 times, or 10,000. The human genome is very large and contains around 22 million sites at nucleosome resolution. Therefore, Micro-C mapping of the entire human genome would require at least 22 million multiplied by 22 million sequencing reads, costing more than $1 billion.

To bring that cost down, the team devised a way to perform a more targeted sequencing of the genome's interactions, allowing them to focus on segments of the genome that contain genes of interest. By focusing on regions spanning few million base pairs, the number of possible genomic sites decreases a thousandfold and the sequencing costs decrease a millionfold, down to about $1,000. The new method, called Region Capture Micro-C (RCMC), is therefore able to inexpensively generate maps 100 times richer in information than other published techniques for a fraction of the cost.

"Now we have a method for getting ultra-high-resolution 3D genome structure maps in a very affordable manner. Previously, it was so inaccessible financially because you would need millions, if not billions of dollars, to get high resolution," Hansen says. "The one limitation is that you can't get the whole genome, so you need to know approximately what region you're interested in, but you can get very high resolution, very affordably."

Many interactions

In this study, the researchers focused on five regions varying in size from hundreds of thousands to about 2 million base pairs, which they chose due to interesting features revealed by previous studies. Those include a well-characterized gene called Sox2, which plays a key role in tissue formation during embryonic development.

After capturing and sequencing the DNA segments of interest, the researchers found many enhancers that interact with Sox2, as well as interactions between nearby genes and enhancers that were previously unseen. In other regions, especially those full of genes and enhancers, some genes interacted with as many as 50 other DNA segments, and on average each interacting site contacted about 25 others.

"People have seen multiple interactions from one bit of DNA before, but it's usually on the order of two or three, so seeing this many of them was quite significant in terms of difference," Huseyin says.

However, the researchers' technique doesn't reveal whether all of those interactions occur simultaneously or at different times, or which of those interactions are the most important.

The researchers also found that DNA appears to coil itself into nested "microcompartments" that facilitate these interactions, but they weren't able to determine how microcompartments form. The researchers hope that further study into the underlying mechanisms could shed light on the fundamental question of how genes are regulated.

"Even though we're not currently aware of what may be causing these microcompartments, and we have all these open questions in front of us, we at least have a tool to really stringently ask those questions," Goel says.

In addition to pursuing those questions, the MIT team also plans to work with researchers at Boston Children's Hospital to apply this type of analysis to genomic regions that have been linked with blood disorders in genome-wide association studies. They are also collaborating with researchers at Harvard Medical School to study variants linked to metabolic disorders.

This story is republished courtesy of MIT News (web.mit.edu/newsoffice/), a popular site that covers news about MIT research, innovation and teaching.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The National Cancer Institute has revealed for the first time that young Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NHPI) are the race group that experiences the highest rates of cancer death among people their age in the U.S.

A study published April 19 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) reports that between 2018 and 2020, NHPI between the ages of 20 and 49 had the highest death rate from any cancer, compared to 20 to 49-year-olds from other racial and ethnic groups (American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, Black, Latino or White).

"These disparities clearly demonstrate the importance of disaggregation of Asians and NHPIs from one another," said University of Hawaii Cancer Center researcher and Hawaii Tumor Registry (HTR) Principal Investigator, Brenda Hernandez.

Until recently, race reporting at the federal level in the U.S. lumped Americans of Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander ancestry all in a single category. In 1997, the "Asian/Pacific Islander" category was split into "Asian" and "Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander." It took another 10 years to transition fully to using the updated race list on individual states' death certificates, so statistics like cancer death rates for this new set of races have only been reportable since 2018.

Cancer surveillance of local ethnic communities

Because of Hawaii's unique multiethnic composition, HTR, responsible for cancer surveillance in the state of Hawaii, has long collected and reported these more granular statistics.

"In Hawaii, Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander ethnic communities have experienced dramatically different cancer burdens," Hernandez said.

Last year, HTR's Hawaii Cancer at a Glance revealed that Native Hawaiian women have higher death rates from breast and lung cancers than do women of Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, other Asian and white races in Hawaii.

Addressing disparities from multiple angles

Under the leadership of its new director Naoto Ueno, the UH Cancer Center is taking a "multifactorial approach" to addressing these disparities. This includes construction on the highly-anticipated Early Phase Clinical Research Center, which would allow UH Cancer Center researchers to conduct innovative trials in Kakaako. It also involves intense efforts led by the UH Cancer Center in collaboration with the state, legislators, local healthcare systems, advisory boards, patient advocacy groups and others.

"We are trying to establish more robust clinical research so that we can provide more clinical trials that would allow people to stay in state," Ueno said. "We need to make a collective impact with the various stakeholders, and the UH Cancer Center could be the driving force to make these changes."

Ueno said that the JNCI report is timely as May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. However, it does not change the UH Cancer Center's philosophy or general direction, since the center is already focused on serving the needs of the residents of Hawaii and USAPI, which includes large Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations; however, it does raise awareness at the national level. This then provides more opportunities for funding of more focused research related to unique diverse ethnic backgrounds.

"Even for clinical trials, if we can determine the genomic and molecular connection between the kind of aggressive disease you have, we can potentially personalize treatment based on racial or ethnic background," he said. "There are many different opportunities with pharmaceutical companies and more."

More information: Anika T Haque et al, Cancer mortality rates by racial/ethnic groups in the United States, 20182020, JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute (2023). DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad069 Journal information: Journal of the National Cancer Institute
The annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research was held this year from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida, and attracted approximately 19,000 participants from around the world, including scientists, cancer survivors, clinicians, allied health professionals, and industry professionals. The conference highlighted recent advances in the treatment, management, and prevention of cancer.

In one study, Ben Park, M.D., Ph.D., of the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and colleagues found that a novel liquid biopsy-based multicancer early detection (MCED) test can distinguish patients who have a given type of cancer from healthy individuals.

The authors performed a retrospective case-control analysis to determine the ability of the novel MCED test to detect 12 cancer types among approximately 4,000 individuals with newly diagnosed, treatment-naive cancer and age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Using the new technology for isolating methylated DNA, the researchers were able to pull out enough methylated circulating tumor DNA and analyze it across multiple different cancer types and multiple different stages.

"We have not yet tested patients at high risk or healthy patients as a screening tool, which is the ultimate goal. Our first step was to prove the test can distinguish between noncancer versus cancer patients and to that end, the test was very successful, even in patients with early-stage cancers," Park said. "We have to first prove this will be accurate as a screening tool. Then the trickiest part is to prove even if we can detect cancers very early, does it actually lead to improved outcomes?"

The study was funded by Adela. Park disclosed financial ties to the diagnostics and pharmaceutical industries.

In another study, Eric Adjei Boakye, Ph.D., of Henry Ford Health in Detroit, and colleagues found that awareness within the United States regarding the association between human papillomavirus (HPV) and anal, oral, and penile cancers remains very low, despite availability of the HPV vaccine since 2006.

The authors evaluated data from five time points between 2014 and 2020 from the Health Information National Trends Survey. The researchers found that only one in three American adults is aware of the causal link between HPV and these cancers. In addition, there has not been a change in the awareness level for any of the cancers during the last decade. In fact, for cervical cancer, awareness has decreased.

"The United States failed to achieve the Healthy People 2020 target of 80 percent HPV vaccination coverage. Given the associations between HPV-associated cancer awareness and HPV vaccination uptake, it is important we increase the population's awareness of this link as it may help increase vaccine uptake. Otherwise, we risk meeting the Healthy People 2030 target of 80 percent," Boakye said. "While cervical cancer incidence is decreasing, anal and oropharyngeal cancer incidences are increasing, and yet awareness for those cancers is very low, which calls for interventions to increase the awareness level. The HPV vaccine could prevent over 90 percent of HPV-associated cancers; therefore, we should improve vaccine uptake to decrease preventable cases and death from these cancers."

In the KEYNOTE-966 phase III clinical trial, Robin Kelley, M.D., of the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of California in San Francisco, and colleagues found that combining pembrolizumab immunotherapy with standard gemcitabine plus cisplatin chemotherapy as first-line treatment for patients with advanced stages of biliary tract cancers improves overall survival.

The authors randomly assigned 1,069 patients to receive either pembrolizumab (533 patients) or placebo (536 patients) in combination with gemcitabine and cisplatin. The researchers found that immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy improved outcomes as first-line therapy for patients with advanced biliary tract cancers without contraindications to immunotherapy. The treatment was associated with longer duration of response and similar rates of adverse events compared with the same chemotherapy regimen without pembrolizumab.

"The KEYNOTE-966 study, along with a contemporary trial, TOPAZ-1, validates the survival benefit of adding a checkpoint inhibitor to chemotherapy as initial management of patients with advanced-stage biliary tract cancers," Kelley said. "In addition, the design of KEYNOTE-966 permitted continuation of gemcitabine until progression, unacceptable toxicity, or treating-investigator discretion, without a maximum number of cycles; this is in contrast to the design of TOPAZ-1, in which gemcitabine and cisplatin were both discontinued after six months in all patients. The allowance of continuation of gemcitabine in KEYNOTE-966 accommodates individualized patient treatment decisions about the duration of chemotherapy."

The study was funded by Merck Sharp & Dohme, the manufacturer of pembrolizumab.

AACR: Neoadjuvant, Adjuvant Durvalumab Beneficial for NSCLC

MONDAY, May 1, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- For patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer, neoadjuvant and adjuvant durvalumab offers benefits in terms of pathologic complete response and event-free survival, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, held from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida.

AACR: Adjuvant Atezolizumab + Bevacizumab Beneficial in Liver Cancer

TUESDAY, April 18, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- For patients with high-risk hepatocellular carcinoma, adjuvant therapy of atezolizumab with bevacizumab prolongs recurrence-free survival, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, held from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida.

AACR: mRNA-4157 Plus Pembrolizumab Beneficial in Melanoma

MONDAY, April 17, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- For patients with completely resected, high-risk cutaneous melanoma, the novel mRNA-based cancer vaccine (mRNA-4157) combined with pembrolizumab results in improved recurrence-free survival compared with pembrolizumab alone, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, held from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida.

AACR: Awareness That HPV Causes Cancer Is Ebbing Among Americans

MONDAY, April 17, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Public awareness that human papillomavirus can cause a range of cancers is slipping in the United States, according to the results of a survey presented at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research, held from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida.
A new space for Montanas only refugee resettlement agency opened this year, allowing the group to offer more support and services for families and individuals who recently relocated to Montana from across the globe.

The International Rescue Committee is settled into its bigger location situated on South Russell Street. The organization hosted an open house on Friday, attended by dozens of community members, including families recently resettled from Syria and Missoula Mayor Jordan Hess.

We have grown and grown and grown, IRC Missoula Deputy Director Eamon Fahey said. When Fahey started at the IRC, he was one of four staff people. Now, IRC's employee count in Missoula has grown to 26.

The three-story building has ample room, enabling the organization to expand its services offered to refugees. A classroom space (which IRC didnt have at its previous location) hosts workshops for refugees to learn things like building financial health, applying for jobs and navigating other social services. Twelve laptop workstations are included too.

A new shopping area sits behind the reception desk. Hundreds of donated household goods line the walls of a large room on the ground level. Kitchenware, bed linens, and bathroom essentials are a few things refugees can shop for to take to their new homes.

This gives people settling into Missoula the chance to decide for themselves what they want and need, IRC Development Manager Sarah Howerton said.

Weve never had the space before to sort of have a shopping space, she said. In addition to plenty of office and meeting space, the building has a dedicated private room for individuals who might need to pray or breastfeed while they're at IRC.

Missoula Mayor Jordan Hess spoke at Fridays event. He thanked the IRC for their resettlement work and welcomed refugees to Missoula.

Were so glad youre here, Hess said. The journeys youve gone through are a testament to resilience and fortitude and really demonstrate the strength of human spirit.

Fahey said the resettlement agency is seeing refugees steadily coming in from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Syria. The agency recently has had its first couple of cases from Yemen.

When Fahey started at IRC two years ago, he said the agency saw roughly 45% of its families arriving in Montana but wanting to turn around and relocate to a different community, something known as "out-migration."

This year, Fahey said, one family out-migrated of the 30 families IRC Missoula has worked with.

So that means we have communities that are establishing, people are finding this a welcoming place and putting down roots, he said. Thats huge.

Fahey encouraged continued community support. Employment and housing connections are key for successfully resettling.

Sponsorship is also critical. This gives Missoulians the chance to get involved in the resettlement process, Fahey explained. Montanans interested in co-sponsoring refugees can work with the IRC to get training on the services provided by the agency to bolster their resettlement efforts for families new to Missoula.

There are more displaced people in the world right now than in human history, Fahey said. We all need to get involved in this.
Having delivered hundreds of babies in her 23 years as a nurse, Casey Houk is described by her co-workers as someone physicians consistently rely on to provide excellent patient care to everyone she works with at a Ronan health center.

Houk, who trained at the Salish Kootenai College in Pablo, now works at St. Lukes Community Hospital. Shes stationed in the labor and delivery department, the kind of nursing work Houk describes as her passion.

She first got into nursing after she had her first child.

I had a lot of respect for nurses and everything they did during my labor with him, Houk said. Shes been a nurse in labor and delivery for about 14 years, and estimated that shes been part of delivery teams for hundreds of newborns.

I have the best job because I deliver babies, she said. Its a monumental moment in their life.

Casey always has a smile on her face and a cheerful, can-do attitude no matter the circumstances, a co-worker of Houks wrote. She stays calm in crisis situations and is great at problem solving, an amazing attribute to have on both the med/surg floor and OB department.

"As a physician I know I can count on her to provide excellent patient care and keep me in the loop of any concerns or changes," they added. "Casey is a pleasure to work with and be around, and her patients love her!"

Houk has lived in western Montana since she was 11, and now lives in Ronan. She joined St. Lukes in 2000, where started as a certified nursing aide. She briefly also worked at St. Josephs Medical Center in Polson from 2005 to 2007 (while still working part-time at St. Lukes), but since 2007 has been a full-time nurse at the Ronan medical center.
This week, ten-year-old drone company ACSL announced plans to enter the U.S. commercial drone market. The firm has already taken a sizable bite out of the market in its native Japan, with a certification from the countrys Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, as well as a deal to provide disaster support for the Fire and Disaster Management Agency. It says it's the country's largest by headcount, revenue and market cap.

The U.S. is a no-brainer for a company like ACSL. Its a massive drone market, but government use has been stymied, in part by blacklisting. In October of last year, for instance, the Department of Defense included DJI on a list of Chinese military companies. It noted in a release:

The Department is determined to highlight and counter the PRC Military-Civil Fusion strategy, which supports the modernization goals of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) by ensuring its access to advanced technologies and expertise are acquired and developed by PRC companies, universities, and research programs that appear to be civilian entities.

Thats just one in a small list of issues DJI, based in Shenzhen, has faced in the States, as the U.S. government began tightening restrictions during the Trump presidency. Those problems have only continued to mount for the drone maker, which currently commands more than 70% of the global market.

While DJI drones have remained popular among consumers, government contracts have been an entirely different story. The bans have proven a boon for U.S.-based Skydio, which hit a $2.2 billion valuation in February, months after scoring several large government contracts.

This news finds ACSL building out its U.S. team.

ACSL has been working hard to establish itself in its home market with a lineup that has consistently proven itself as a reliable tool that delivers results, Global CTO Chris Raabe said in a release. We began arranging product demos for potential US clients late last year. With the opening of our subsidiary here in California, I am making the US my base, to be personally involved in our activity in the field, meeting these clients, demonstrating our capabilities, and learning about their needs.

The SOTEN will be the first of ACSLs products to be available stateside. The folding drone, which hit the Japanese market in 2021, bears more than a passing resemblance to DJIs popular Mavic line. Exact timeline and pricing have not been announced. The company only says that it will be offering a competitively priced NDAA compliant small drone to the US market later this year.
ALLEN, Texas (AP)  Federal officials are looking into whether the gunman who killed eight people at a Dallas-area mall expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology Sunday as they work to discern a motive for the attack, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe were used by Mauricio Garcia, 33, and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents have interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined Sunday evening to answer questions from the AP, saying of the investigation, we actually dont have a lot.

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as suspected of killing eight people at a Texas outlet mall, a day after the attack turned an afternoon of shopping into a massacre.

Garcia was fatally shot Saturday by a police officer who happened to be near the suburban Dallas mall.

A law enforcement official said investigators have been searching a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The official said police also found multiple weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Two law enforcement officials said investigators also searched a Dallas home connected to the suspect. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of an ongoing investigation.

A woman who lives three houses down from the low brick house said she saw a large group of uniformed officers go into the home Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

They went in like real fast, and I seen them do that like twice, said Marsha Alexander, who said officers were still in the area when she went to bed around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. They were gone by Sunday morning.

On Sunday afternoon, a woman named Julie was sitting on the porch of her house, next door to the one searched the day before. She declined to give her last name to an AP reporter but said she awoke from a nap around 6 p.m. Saturday to see four police squad cars and a large group of officers outside her neighbors home.

She said they entered the home and were joined about an hour later by FBI agents and other people wearing plainclothes, who she also took to be law enforcement.

The woman said she did not know her neighbors well, but knew them to be very polite, very nice people. She said the man she now understands to have been the shooter was always friendly and would wave or honk his horn as he came and went.

At about 2 p.m. Sunday, a man entered the home that was searched, but when reporters knocked on the door and waited, no one answered.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said the assailant wore tactical gear and fired an AR-15-style weapon. He urged Congress to enact tighter restrictions on firearms and ammunition.

Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts, said Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

Republicans in Congress, he said, cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Barely a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

This year has seen an average of about one mass killing per week, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Information about the gunman in Allen emerged as the community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Authorities have not publicly identified those who were killed.

The wounded remained hospitalized Sunday, three in critical condition and four in fair condition, the Allen Police Department said in a statement.

John Mark Caton, senior pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church about two miles from the mall, offered prayers during a regular Sunday morning service for victims, first responders and the shoppers and employees who walked out past things they never should have seen.

Some of our people were there. Some perhaps in this room. Some of our students were working in those stores and will be changed forever by this, Caton said.

Caton offered similar sentiments during a Sunday night vigil at the church attended by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who has signed laws easing firearms restrictions following past mass shootings in Texas, and other elected leaders. Earlier that day, Abbott said on Fox News that Texas wouldn't enact gun control now.

People want a quick solution, Abbott said. "The long term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

The attack unfolded at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center. Witnesses reported seeing children among the victims. Some said they also saw what appeared to be a police officer and a mall security guard unconscious on the ground.

Andria Gaither, the assistant manager at the Tommy Hilfiger clothing store, said Sunday she was at the back of the store Saturday afternoon when she saw two young girls trying to hide in a dressing room. At first, she thought they were playing. Then she heard one say shots were being fired.

Gaither looked around to see customers and the store manager running to the back of the store. Eventually, Gaither and the others ran out a back door.

As soon as I got outside the back of the store, you could hear the shooting, Gaither said Sunday. It was so loud. Id never ever heard anything like that in my life. It was deafening."

Allen, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of downtown Dallas and with a population of about 105,000 residents, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show Allen's population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

Balsamo reported from Washington, and Stengle reported from Dallas. Associated Press writers Vanessa Alvarez in New York, James Vertuno in Austin, Adam Kealoha Causey in Dallas, Gene Johnson in Seattle and Rebecca Boone in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.
Editors note: Calendar items must be submitted at least five days before an event. Email all items to news@morganton.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Guest speaker

Justice Sam J. Ervin IV (Jimmy) will speak at the Burke County Democratic Headquarters at 6 p.m. It is at 310 S. Sterling St. Due to the recent N.C. Supreme Court decision on gerrymandering and voter ID this is a very timely topic. Dinner will be catered. A $10 contribution would be appreciated but not expected.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

Crime prevention council meeting

The Burke County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council will meet at 8:10 a.m. It will be held in the Club Room at the Collett Street Recreation Center in Morganton. To attend or for additional information, contact A.J. Coutu at jcpbcc@gmail.com or 828-403-1427

THURSDAY, MAY 11

The N.C. Pre-K Committee of Burke County Smart Start Inc. will meet Thursday, May 11, at 8:30 a.m. in person at the Partnership office at 304 W. Union St. N.C. Pre-K meetings are open to the public and are held in handicapped accessible facilities. COVID, flu and other health restrictions will be observed for in-person attendance. For anyone with a hearing impairment who may require the assistance of an interpreter or have other special needs, call the Partnership at 439-2326 or use the N.C. Relay System at 1-800-735-8262.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Wreath-making workshop

The Mountain Gateway Museum & Heritage Museum, 24 Water St., Old Fort, will host a spring wreath-making workshop at 11 a.m. The workshop, led by Toni Jo McCoart, will cost $15 per wreath, and registration and prepayment are required by May 10. For more information, call the museum at 828-668-9259 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or email brittany.bennett@ncdcr.gov.

Glen Alpine UMC breakfast

The second Saturday Breakfast will be held May 13 from 7-10 a.m. at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, 410 Linville St., Glen Alpine. The second Saturday breakfast is a popular fundraising mission by the GA United Methodist Mens group. Cost is by donation.

Run as One 5K

The third annual Run as One 5K will be held at Catawba Meadows Greenway. The event starts at 9 a.m. and is being held to support Mental Health Awareness Month. Entry fee for runners or walkers is $25, which includes a commemorative T-shirt, and medals for first, second, and third place in age divisions. After the race, there will be refreshments, a celebration, music and giveaways. For more information or to register, go to https://bit.ly/3ANchzO.

MONDAY, MAY 15

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

Support group meeting

The Foothills Vision Loss Support Group will meet at 10 a.m. at the Burke Senior Center in Morganton. Anyone who is blind or has low vision is welcome to attend. For more information, send an email to foothillsvisionloss@gmail.com or call Ed McDaniel at 828-778-4177.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Sons of the American Revolution meeting

The Col. Alexander Erwin Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will meet at 6 p.m. at the Morganton Community House, 120 N. King St., Morganton. William Caldwell will present a program titled Rogues, Banditti & Crackers: The Southern Backcountry by the time of the American Revolution. The chapter also will recognize its youth middle school brochure and elementary school poster contest winners. The meeting is open to the public, but those who wish to attend must RSVP by contacting Robert Patton at 828-443-3720 or robert.patton1@icloud.com. Dinner is $13 per person.

Fundraiser

Carolina Caring will host the fundraiser Flights & Bites at the Morganton Community House, 120 S. King St., from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Cost is $75 per person and will include wine by Silver Fork Winery paired with food by chef Nathan Cromwell. Tickets should be purchased by May 8 but calling 828-466-0466.

Board meeting

New Dimensions will hold its monthly board meeting on at 4 p.m. in person on campus as well as via Zoom. Contact ckinard@ndschool.org for link information.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Wilson Creek Cleanup

The Wilson Creek Faithful will be organizing a cleanup on Wilson Creek on Saturday, May 20, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Trash bags and beverages will be provided. For more information, call David Benner at 828-433-7932 or Leonard Baker at 252-289-0211.

Cow patty bingo

The bands of Draughn and East Burke high schools will host a cow patty bingo event at 10 a.m. at Draughn High School. The prize is up to $5,000 with donations of $20 per section or $100 per square. The event also will include concessions, face painting, music, raffle prizes and the Chick-fil-A Cow. Call 828-334-1756 for more information.

Support group

The Survivors of Loss to Suicide Hickory NC Support Group will meet from 9-10 a.m. at St Stephens Library 3225 Springs Road NE, Hickory. The group offers support for the families and friends who have lost a loved one to suicide. Each session will focus on a different topic on the complicated grief that comes from losing someone to suicide. The group is open to teens and adults. For more information, contact Leisa Bentley at leisabentley@charter.net or call 828-234-5822

MONDAY, MAY 22

Business marketing class

The Morganton Downtown Development Association, in collaboration with the Small Business Center at Western Piedmont Community College, will offer a business marketing training session on Finding Your Customers and Creating a Marketing Plan from 4-6 p.m. at the Morganton Community House at 120 N. King St. in Morganton. A second session will take place from 8-10 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, at the Community House called Dynamite Marketing for Small Businesses. The sessions are free to attend, but those interested must register in advance. To register for the first session, visit https://bit.ly/3ZTIPml. To register for the second session, visit https://bit.ly/3Fw3Hbb.

Remembering Our Parents event

Carolina Caring will hold a Remembering our Parents event on from 6-7:30 p.m. at the organizations Newton campus located at 3975 Robinson Road in Newton to honor the memory of our parents. Participants are asked to bring a picture that can be used in an activity. Registration is required. To register, visit CarolinaCaring.org/support, contact wspurling@carolinacaring.org or call 828-466-0466, ext. 3201.

TUESDAY, MAY 30JUNE 1

Bus driver class

Burke County Public Schools will host a bus driver class from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 30, Wednesday, May 31, and June 1 at Central Office at 700 E. Parker Road. Call the transportation department at 828-437-4770 for more information.

MONDAY, JUNE 19

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

MONDAY, JULY 17

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

MONDAY, AUG. 21

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

MONDAY, SEPT. 18

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

TUESDAY, OCT. 10

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

TUESDAY, NOV. 21

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.

MONDAY, DEC. 18

ABC Board meeting

The Valdese ABC Board will meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Valdese ABC Store at 1018 W. Main St. in Valdese.
John W. Duncan was born in Texas in 1873 and arrived in Butte in 1899. In May 1902 he partnered with Christian Dorsey to establish the Butte New Age newspaper, Published in the Interests of Colored People.

The New Age was one of three newspapers in Montana in the early 20th century geared toward African Americans; the other two, The Colored Citizen and the Montana Plaindealer, were based in Helena. The New Age office was at 220 South Idaho St.

The weekly New Age only lasted for about nine months. According to historian Anthony Wood, political differences between Duncan and Dorsey may have contributed to the demise. Dorsey worked as a valet to Augustus F. Heinze, traveling with him to Alaska in 1902, and despite the New Ages premise of being apolitical, Dorsey supported Heinze while Duncan and the paper supported the Amalgamated (Anaconda) Company. Dorsey left Butte for Honolulu in late 1902 and the New Age ceased publication in February 1903.

Duncan was initially a barber by profession, working in 1904 from his home at 114 S. Wyoming. He was active in the community, serving as the secretary of the African American Mining Company  not an actual mining business, but a fraternal organization. He met Armeta Smith when she was visiting Butte about 1905, and the two were married in 1907.

Armeta Duncan was a schoolteacher by education, but in Butte worked as a domestic servant for Cornelius Kelley during his meteoric rise to become president of the Anaconda Company. Armeta was a co-founder and president of the Montana Federation of Colored Womens Clubs, prominent in the Montana fight for civil rights and active in helping Black students to attend college.

In 1913 the Duncans bought a home at 711 West Broadway. In 1919-1920, John spent a year at the University of Massachusetts, which certified him as a medical doctor. In Butte, he established his chiropodist clinic at 315 Phoenix Ave. in 1923.

Their professional successes and growing family led the Duncans to purchase a new home at 715 West Park St. in 1928, where they lived together until Johns death in 1958. Armeta lived there until 1976 when she moved back to the family home on Broadway. She died in 1979 at age 94, remembered as a friend to young and old. She had volunteered for many years at St. James Hospital and was active in the Butte Womens Club.

All four of the Duncan children attended college and had long careers, including Walter, who continued his fathers podiatry practice, John, who worked as a mechanical engineer on submarines, and Perdida, who worked in New York City government for decades. Mary worked in Washington, D.C., before returning to Butte.
They say even the blackest clouds can have a silver lining. In the case of the recent legislative session that appears to be true  at least for Montanas internationally-lauded constitution.

Despite having a historic supermajority in both chambers of the Legislature, not one of the 50 original bill draft requests for constitutional amendments passed. Not one  and thats good news for Montanans and our state. The harsh attacks against our Inalienable Right to Individual Dignity and Right of Privacy remain standing, as does our right to a clean and healthful environment.

Its not hard to recall the former GOP Montana legislator, Derek Skees, who claimed Montanas Constitution was a socialist rag. Skees political ambitions ground to a halt after that baseless claim and one might have thought his fellow Republicans would realize targeting our constitutional rights was a losing proposition.

Take, for instance, the phony amendment attempting to constitutionally enshrine the right to trap  as if that was somehow a pressing concern for most Montanans. The concept, as brought by Republican Rep. Paul Fielder, was not only rife with problems, it was totally unnecessary since Montanans already have the constitutional right to hunt and fish. Despite numerous amendments, it did not meet the final vote tally to pass.

Whats even stranger is the post-session blather about how none of the proposed constitutional referendums were either a concern for Montanans or seriously considered by the GOP supermajority.

Senate President Jason Ellsworth claimed the tidal wave of citizen concern expressed in the media across the state were actually lies by Democrat messaging. But before anyone believes anything Ellsworth says about lies, its worth remembering this is the guy who hassled the Highway Patrol because they pulled him over for significantly exceeding the speed limit  and then told the trooper he couldnt be stopped or cited because the constitution provides immunity from arrest during attendance at sessions of the Legislature. Except the Legislature was not in session when he was busted.

Or how about the conflicting post-session comments given to the press? The Senate majority leader says they spent very little time in leadership talking about constitutional amendments, which he says were a distraction. But thats not what House Majority Leader Sue Vinton had to say. She told reporters the Republican caucus spent a great deal of time discussing the proposed referendums, adding: ... there was a great discussion, and generally much agreement, much more agreement than disagreement on any of those issues.

Obviously, you cant have it both ways. Then again, recall the precipitous end of the session, in which the Senate basically said sayonara and left town. But considering the House was still considering a number of unresolved bills  including those dealing with the State Hospital  it speaks volumes about the House and Senate relationship.

That our constitution withstood these assaults is already proving its worth. Helena District Judge Mike Menahan was blunt in issuing an injunction halting the first of five new laws attacking womens right to control their own bodies and make their own decisions about childbirth writing it impermissibly infringes on Montanans constitutional right[s] of privacy and equal protection that will result in immediate, grave health consequences for Medicaid-eligible Montanans seeking abortion care.

Its no secret the Republican supermajorities showed little concern for our states constitution, even going so far as preventing Montanans from observing their actions while in session. But theyre gone now, and our constitution still stands and will, undoubtedly, prove the foil for so many of their pernicious laws. Thats very good news for Montana  and wed do well to remember come next election cycle.
This Montana winter has been a lot like the 2023 Montana Legislature: theyve both long worn out their welcome.

As usual by the end of the legislative session, nobody is happy. With just 90 short days for Montanas citizen Legislature to take care of business before breaking for two years, there are countless important, impassioned debates that get left without a resolution. Tempers have flared, bills have been killed and there are a lot of sour grapes.

But the governments sour grapes arent a bug in our system, its a feature of what makes Montana so great. To borrow a witticism often attributed to the great Will Rogers, us taxpayers should be thankful were not getting all the government were paying for.

Montana is one of just four states left in the country where citizen lawmakers can only make laws that impact our lives, liberty and property once every two years. As far as Im concerned, thats a good thing. While there have been good arguments for the benefits of moving to an annual legislative session, our current part-time system does generally seem to keep the worst of todays toxic national politics at bay.

Too many people nowadays have made politics their entire identity, impacting everything from the brands of beer they buy to the friends they choose to keep. Folks are living glued to their phones arguing with strangers online about the latest trending political outrage of the day. As a result of this obsession, one in five people nationally say politics has hurt friendships and family relationships. One in four college applicants avoid entire states for political reasons. Similar to what the Legislature experiences late in the session, the result of this 24/7 politics is that very few Americans are feeling happy with the direction of the country.

You dont see as much a fixation with politics yet in Montana and we owe some of that to our part-time citizen Legislature. While things might get heated late in the legislative session, with lawmaking paused for two years theres simply less fuel to stoke enough outrage to sustain the caliber of political junkies seen in other states. Through the very design of our government, Montanans have made an unconscious choice that the governments politics wont be our entire collective identity.

The reach of politics in Montana also has some built-in geographic limits. When I left Helena and ventured out into the mountains last weekend to spend some time glassing for a spring bear, politics was nowhere to be found. Indeed, theres a lot of places left in Montana where cellphone service is scarce and the media frenzies, mean tweets and committee drama of the politics in Helena or DC hardly get noticed. These areas far from the business of the Capitol are where the live and let live spirit of the frontier is still alive and well.

Montanas wide open spaces, generous elbow room and abundant public lands have a lot to offer for an individual in need of some real peace and quiet. Our traditions of hunting, hiking, fishing, and recreating in our states great outdoors cater to a different type of junkie and do wonders for the soul. When Montanas Legislature ends and our lawmakers must return home for two years, they too will get the benefit of this natural therapy.

If you are a regular reader of my columns youll know that Im a passionate advocate for government reform and believe in the benefits of active civic engagement. But I do believe there is virtue in moderation, in politics especially.
People tend to avoid the discussion of estate planning because no one likes to think about their mortality. Plus, theres the presumption that only the wealthy have an estate that needs planning.

But many moderate-income families may have a very special need to do some simple estate planning. If they arrange their assets properly, they can make sure that if one spouse needs custodial care, the other spouse can still live a comfortable life.

Wealthy people buy long-term care insurance or decide they have enough assets to cover the cost of private care, either in-home or in assisted living. (Medicare will only provide skilled nursing-home care for up to 100 days  and then only if the patient is moved directly from a hospital.)

That leaves a big gap for many families with more moderate incomes and assets. Their savings could disappear in a flash if they need full-time care. Family members often provide help. But theres another way to get both care and peace of mind: using a specialist lawyer to pre-arrange your assets.

Understanding Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal/state program, administered by each state with its own regulations. In addition to providing health care to the poor, it is designed to provide long-term custodial care to those who have spent their assets. Each state has its own rules for spending down assets and using income from pensions, Social Security, savings or a spouses income.

For example, a single individual who needs nursing-home care to be paid by Medicaid in Illinois this year must qualify by having income (including Social Security, pensions, IRA distributions and rental income) under $1,215 per month and own assets under $2,000.

But in the case of a married couple, the law realizes it does no good to impoverish the spouse who is well. So, each state sets its own rules about allowable spousal income and assets for the community spouse. For example, in Illinois in 2023, that income allowance is $2,000 per month, plus assets totaling no more than $120,780. But a waiver could increase that income limit to $3,715.50 per month.

Florida does not allow an applicant to own countable assets worth more than $2,000. However, if the applicant's income is under $856 per month, the asset limit jumps to $5,000. In Florida, the community spouse can retain up to $148,620 in individual or joint assets in addition to the family home.

In most states, the community spouse may keep the family home regardless of value. But after death, a single homeowner can expect that the state will attempt to recoup its Medicaid costs from his or her estate.

How Medicaid planning can help

As you can see from this brief overview, Medicaid planning is a quagmire and requires a sharp lawyer in your state of residence to deal with issues of income, assets and homeownership. Complicating the process is the fact that its difficult to predict which spouse will need care first. Transferring assets at the last minute to qualify for Medicaid results in penalties, since states can look back at least five years to catch illegal transfers. But Florida is among the states that allow transfers between spouses, an essential element in the planning process.

You need a qualified elder law attorney in your state of residence to manage this process. Joannie Rodriguez is a Florida bar board-certified elder law attorney in Orlando. She says her practice is as much about preserving peace of mind as it is about saving the familys hard-earned nest egg while providing the best quality of care for the longest time  and protecting the community spouse.

Rodriguez makes no apologies for doing this type of planning, saying: This is not about taking advantage. I am helping people qualify for benefits they are entitled to receive but might not know about. She strongly advises people to plan while you are capable of making your own decisions.

To find a trusted senior estate-planning attorney in your state of residence, visit NAELA.org, the website of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Done correctly, this kind of planning is about having peace of mind for yourself and your family at the end of your life, no matter what your level of assets and income. And thats The Savage Truth.

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Terry Savage is a registered investment adviser and the author of four best-selling books, including "The Savage Truth on Money." Email her at terry@terrysavage.com.
MONDAY, May 8, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- In a world increasingly consumed by social media, much has been made of the amount of time younger generations spend online every day  and the harms that habit can bring.

But now a new study of older adults suggests that regular internet use may actually be a boon for older Americans, staving off the long-term risk for dementia.

We studied the association between internet usage and the risk of dementia in the long term among dementia-free adults aged 50 and older, explained study author Gawon Cho.

We found that regular users experienced approximately half the risk of dementia than non-regular users, said Cho, a doctoral student in the department of social and behavioral sciences at New York University's School of Global Public Health, in New York City.

Surprised by the magnitude of the risk difference her team observed, Cho acknowledged that its not entirely clear whether dementia-free patients are simply more likely to surf the web in the first place, or whether surfing the web can actually help keep dementia risk at bay.

We cannot tell which is the chicken and which is the egg at this time, Cho admitted.

Still, she said, the findings do indicate that when it comes to maintaining a healthy brain internet usage in old age matters.

To examine how internet use might impact dementia risk, the study team focused on more than 18,000 American adults. All were between the ages of 50 and 65 when the study was launched in 2002.

After initially undergoing mental health assessments, all participants were subsequently interviewed every two years, to keep tally of internet usage habits.

At each interview all participants were asked to respond yes or no to the following question: Do you regularly use the World Wide Web, or the Internet, for sending and receiving email or for any other purpose, such as making purchases, searching for information or making travel reservations?

Those who answered yes were classified as regular internet users. Those who answered no were deemed non-regular users.

By that definition, approximately two-thirds of the participants were regular internet users when the study began; just over one-third were not.

In addition, in 2013 a sub-sample of participants who skewed older were also asked to indicate precisely how many hours a day they went online to email, socialize, get news or shop, among other activities. Time spent watching TV or movies was excluded.

Dementia risk was then tracked for a maximum of 17 years, with an average follow-up of about 8 years.

In the end, just under 5% of the participants had developed dementia by the time the study was halted. About 8% of the participants had died without having developed dementia, while more than 87% remained mentally sharp.

Cho acknowledged that roughly one-fifth of the participants changed their internet usage habits over the course of the study. Specifically, about 13% of those who had first been classified as regular users indicated they were non-regular users during at least one of the subsequent interviews.

Change also unfolded in reverse, the team noted, with just over one-third of those initially deemed to be non-regular users having switched to regular internet use at least once over the ensuing years.

Still, the vast majority of participants did not alter their internet habits over time. After stacking initial internet habits up against dementia risk, the team concluded that about 1.5% of regular internet users were at risk for dementia, while more than 10% of non-regular users were, according to the report

The investigators said the findings held up even after taking into account race, ethnicity, gender and prior education.

But a notable twist surfaced when the team turned to the 2013 hourly usage data.

Among that small group of relatively older men and women, investigators saw a U-shaped dynamic, in which older folks who were never online and those who were online between 6 to 8 hours each day seemed to have a higher risk for dementia than their peers whose internet use fell somewhere in between.

Cho noted that prior research has suggested that excessive internet use may ultimately negatively affect the risk of dementia in older adults."

As for the broader finding that regular internet use might be protective against dementia, Cho and her colleagues speculated that it might have to do with how routine online surfing helps to bolster language ability, memory and thought-processing capacity.

The findings were published May 3 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

Claire Sexton, senior director of scientific program and outreach for the Alzheimers Association, suggested that the findings align with the notion that the more we know about the Alzheimers risk factors we can change, the better.

Sexton said, This is important research, as it identifies a potentially modifiable factor that may influence dementia risk."

More research into the impact of lifestyle choices on dementia risk will be needed, she noted.

"People may be able to reduce their risk of cognitive decline by adopting key lifestyle habits, including regular physical activity, getting more formal education, taking care of heart health, and getting enough sleep, she said. When possible, combine these habits to achieve maximum benefit for the brain and body. Start now. Its never too late or too early to incorporate healthy habits."

More information

There's more on dementia at the U.S. National Institute on Aging.

SOURCES: Gawon Cho, doctoral student, department of social and behavioral sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York City; Claire Sexton, DPhil, senior director, scientific program and outreach, Alzheimers Association, Chicago; Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, May 3, 2023
MOSCOW, Idaho  Mackenzie Davidson grew up in a Mormon household and sheepishly admits she knew little about pregnancy.

This is embarrassing, she said, sitting outside a cafe along a street thronged with students in this college town. But I didnt know that you had to have sex to have kids until I was 13 or 14.

Shes a writer for the University of Idaho student newspaper, The Argonaut, and was asked recently to report on a new law. Its now a crime to help a teen under 18 leave the state for an abortion or obtain medication abortion pills without parental consent  including when the girl has been sexually assaulted or raped by a family member or parent. Gov. Brad Little, a Republican, in signing the bill, wrote that the law does not limit an adult woman from obtaining an abortion in another state.

Davidson, 19, reached out to interview state Rep. Barbara Ehardt, a Republican co-sponsor of the bill, who touted her Christian-based attitude during her campaign.

She kept saying that it was about parental rights, Davidson said. But the thing that really caught my attention was the fact that they were calling it abortion trafficking.

The law creates a crime of abortion trafficking and criminalizes the recruiting, harboring, or transporting of minors without parental consent. In a floor speech before the Idaho Legislature voted on the bill, Ehardt said, We are only looking to protect our children.

Idahos teen travel ban, as its known here, took effect May 5, nearly 11 months after the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated the federal constitutional right to abortion. Any adult, including an aunt, grandparent, or sibling, convicted of violating the criminal statute faces up to five years in prison. Under a separate state law, family members of the pregnant minor and the sexual partner involved can sue any health care provider who helped terminate the pregnancy for financial damages.

If youre successful, youre guaranteed $20,000 minimum, and thats per claim per relative, said Kelly ONeill, an Idaho litigation attorney for Legal Voice, a progressive nonprofit.

Idaho has a lot of big families, she added.

Under the new law, even when a parent gives consent, the person accompanying the minor would need to provide an affirmative defense proving they were acting with the permission of a parent of the teen.

You could still be charged, arrested, perhaps even have to go all the way to a jury trial and prove in a courtroom that your sister gave you permission, ONeill said.

Legal experts say Idahos travel ban, based on a model bill written by National Right to Life, one of the countrys largest anti-abortion groups, is designed to sidestep implied constitutional protections for interstate travel. The law targets travel assistance within and up to the states border, effectively criminalizing medical care legally obtained in neighboring states.

This is one of the next frontiers of abortion litigation, said David S. Cohen, a constitutional law professor at Drexel University. Theyre clearly pushing this kind of law with other states.

In response to potential legal threats, on April 27, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, signed a series of bills barring law enforcement from cooperating with other states abortion investigations. Those laws shield medical providers from lawsuits and protect their medical licenses from being revoked.

But in communities like Spokane, Washington, just 20 miles from the Idaho border, there is a sense of unease.

We have staff who live in Idaho who commute, said Karl Eastlund, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho. Its one big economic region, when you think of the border communities here.

When asked if he was concerned that medical staff members living in Idaho could be criminally charged for the abortion care they provide every day, he said, We have told our providers we will handle all of your legal fees and well provide lawyers to help you sort out anything that happens.

He added, Its something we think about a lot.

After Sunday morning Mass at St. Augustines Catholic Center in Moscow, Ryan Alexander tended to his 17-month-old daughter, Penelope, as she toddled about the church courtyard. Alexander, 25, a married law student at the university here, said ending any pregnancy violates his Catholic beliefs.

He has read the text of the bill, he said, and the way its written is actually incredibly prudent. No adult, he said, can act in place of a parent.

Thats just kidnapping, by any means, if you take a girl away from her parents when shes a minor and her parents have authority over her, he said.

Alexander said he understands that some teenage girls are sexually abused at home or have dysfunctional relationships with their parents. Still, he supports the law.

When we look at situations like that, my heart goes out to them. What can I do but pray from a distance and think, how can that be better? he said. But two wrongs do not make a right.

Idaho patients, including teenagers, have long crossed into Washington state to legally end their pregnancies. Eastlund said fewer than 5% of the clinics patients who come for abortion care are minors.

Most of those patients, he said, do involve their parents in the process, even though parental consent is not mandatory in Washington. Those who dont, Eastlund said, have good reason not to. Some are in dangerous, abusive situations in which disclosing a pregnancy could put them at risk of further harm.

Were talking about sexual abuse and incest, said Eastlund, sitting upstairs at the clinic in Spokane. Its not stuff people want to talk about, but, unfortunately, its more common than people think.

On the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, in Sandpoint, Idaho, Jen Jackson Quintano said she wants her daughter, Sylvia, 8, to have trusted adults around whom she can turn to when shes a teenager.

I think back to my teenage years when I was in high school, I had a boyfriend that I loved, and I was sexually active, she said. At the time she thought, If I get pregnant, I would rather just die, just end it, than have to figure this out and tell my parents.

Quintano said that while growing up in the Roman Catholic Church, she was taught that sex, contraception, and abortion were shameful, and she is raising her daughter under a different set of beliefs.

Shame as a woman  its a powerful form of control, and I dont want her to walk that path of shame, Quintano said. I want her to feel comfortable in her body.

Idahos teen abortion travel ban and the financial rewards for reporting citizens who obtain abortions are already dividing the tightknit fabric of Sandpoints community, she said.

We dont know who to trust, Quintano said. We dont know who we can talk to.

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If you are enrolled in Medi-Cal, as more than one-third of Californians are, make sure your county knows how to reach you, or you could lose your health coverage unnecessarily.

You will likely hear and see public messages over the coming weeks urging you to update your contact information. Heed them.

Then, sometime between now and next spring, youll probably receive mail from the agency that administers Medi-Cal in your county telling you if you are still eligible for the safety-net health insurance program or asking for more information about your employment status, income, and household size. An information request would likely come in a bright-yellow envelope containing a roughly 20-page form about six weeks before the start of your renewal month.

Be on the alert: Medi-Cal is warning about scammers who have been contacting enrollees and requesting a fee to help people renew coverage. Dont fall for it. No payment is required to renew your coverage.

But be sure to open your mail and respond to any official request for personal information. And be aware that updating your information could push you off Medi-Cal if your income has risen or if you have access to other insurance.

If you need help with any of this, especially that daunting renewal form, keep reading.

Medi-Cal, the states version of the Medicaid health insurance program for low-income residents, has embarked on a 14-month effort to reexamine the eligibility of its nearly 15.8 million members. It is part of the massive unwinding being undertaken by all state Medicaid programs after three pandemic years during which their rolls swelled. States had agreed, in exchange for extra funding from the feds, not to boot anyone except in cases such as fraud, death, or a move out of state.

On April 1, Medicaid restarted the annual eligibility checks that had been the norm before the pandemic. It will be the biggest shake-up in U.S. health coverage since the Affordable Care Act, though it cuts the opposite way: Between 8 million and 24 million people will likely be bounced from Medicaid nationally, including an estimated 2 million to 3 million in California.

To minimize the number of enrollees dropped unnecessarily, Californias Department of Health Care Services, which runs Medi-Cal, has launched a $25 million advertising and outreach campaign that will send messages in 19 languages. The department is enlisting the assistance of nearly everyone who has contact with Medi-Cal enrollees: county offices, health plans, medical providers, advocacy groups, and volunteers. And it got $146 million in supplemental funding to help counties cope with the unprecedented number of renewal decisions.

But some patient advocates, health plan executives, and community clinic administrators worry it will not be enough to help all enrollees who could lose coverage if they cant be reached or dont respond  especially transient and homeless people and those with language or cultural barriers.

Less than two months before the start of the unwinding, multiple counties, including Fresno and Sacramento, reported staffing shortages and the need to train eligibility workers.

Laura Sheckler, deputy director of policy at the California Primary Care Association, which represents about 1,300 community clinics statewide, says the nearly $60 million in state funds earmarked for navigators to assist Medi-Cal enrollees is not enough for her groups members to provide all the help that will be needed. The association has asked lawmakers for another $60 million.

Some Medi-Cal members already know where they stand. Anthony Kelley, a 53-year-old single dad, is one of them. Kelley, who lives with his 14-year-old son, Nicholas, in Pacifica, California, temporarily lost his job as a driver for a concrete company in the early days of the pandemic and signed up for Medi-Cal. He got his job back about a month later, along with access to employer-sponsored health coverage, but he has stayed on Medi-Cal for the past three years. His son has been on Medi-Cal since he was born.

When San Mateo County sent Kelley a renewal form, he called and was told his $58,000 annual income likely meant he and his son would lose Medi-Cal coverage. Now, hes waiting for that to happen.

It sucks for my son, Kelley says, adding that he fears Nicholas could lose his doctors. But well deal with it.

If you are anxious or uncertain about what you need to do, dont fret. Help is available.

You can call or visit your local Medi-Cal office to update your personal information or ask for assistance. The Department of Health Care Services (www.dhcs.ca.gov) lists on its website all county Medi-Cal agencies, with addresses, phone numbers, and links. You can also call Medi-Cals help line (800-541-5555).

If you want to avoid potentially long lines or telephone hold times, consider signing up for an account at www.benefitscal.com or www.mybenefitscalwin.org. Doing so will allow you to update your personal and financial information online and find your renewal date.

Another great resource is the Health Consumer Alliance (8888043536 or www.healthconsumer.org), which can help you navigate the complexities of renewal, or contest a termination decision you think is unwarranted. Community clinics, which provide care for nearly one-third of Medi-Cal enrollees, often have navigators on-site who can help fill out forms and answer questions. L.A. Care, the largest Medi-Cal health plan, has 11 centers across Los Angeles County that will offer help to anyone who needs it, not just its members. Fresno County has 14 such centers. Check with your health plan for similar resources.

Under a state law, SB 260, if you are bumped off Medi-Cal but still have income low enough to qualify for an insurance subsidy through Covered California, the states insurance marketplace, you will be auto-enrolled in a plan the exchange deems to be the best value at the lowest cost. Once notified of the plan selection, you will have 30 days to accept it, choose another plan, or decline coverage altogether.

This doesnt need to be all doom and gloom for people who have Medi-Cal, says David Kane, a senior attorney at the Western Center on Law & Poverty.

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MISSOULA, Mont.  Jacqueline Towarnicki got a text as she finished her day shift at a local clinic. She had a new case, a patient covered in bruises who couldnt remember how the injuries got there.

Towarnickis breath caught, a familiar feeling after four years of working night shifts as a sexual assault nurse examiner in this northwestern Montana city.

You almost want to curse, Towarnicki, 38, said. Youre like, Oh, no, its happening.

These nights on duty are Towarnickis second job. Shes on call once a week and a weekend a month. A survivor may need protection against sexually transmitted infections, medicine to avoid getting pregnant, or evidence collected to prosecute their attacker. Or all the above.

When her phone rings, its typically in the middle of the night. Towarnicki tiptoes down the stairs of her home to avoid waking her young son, as her half-asleep husband whispers encouragement into the dark.

Her breath is steady by the time she changes into the clothes she laid out close to her back door before going to bed. She grabs her nurses badge and drives to First Step Resource Center, a clinic that offers round-the-clock care for people who have been assaulted.

She wants her patients to know theyre out of danger.

You meet people in some of their most horrifying, darkest, terrifying times, Towarnicki said. Being with them and then seeing who they are when they leave, you dont get that doing any other job in health care.

A former travel nurse who lived out of a van for years, Towarnicki is OK with the uncertainty that comes with being a sexual assault nurse examiner.

Most examiners work on-call shifts in addition to full-time jobs. They often work alone and at odd hours. They can collect evidence that could be used in court, are trained to recognize and respond to trauma, and provide care to protect their patients bodies from lasting effects of sexual assault.

But their numbers are few.

As many as 80% of U.S. hospitals dont have sexual assault nurse examiners, often because they either cant find them or cant afford them. Nurses struggle to find time for shifts, especially when staffing shortages mean covering long hours. Sexual assault survivors may have to leave their town or even their state to see an examiner.

Gaps in sexual assault care can span hundreds of miles in rural areas. A program in Glendive, Montana  a town of nearly 5,000 residents 35 miles from the North Dakota border  stopped taking patients for examinations this spring. It didnt have enough nurses to respond to cases.

These are the same nurses working in the ER, where a heart attack patient could come in, said Teresea Olson, 56, who is the towns part-time mayor and also picked up on-call shifts. The staff was exhausted.

The next closest option is 75 miles away in Miles City, adding at least an hour to the travel time for patients, some of whom already had to travel hours to reach Glendive.

Nationwide, policymakers have been slow to offer training, funding, and support for the work. Some states and health facilities are trying to expand access to sexual assault response programs.

Oklahoma lawmakers are considering a bill to hire a statewide sexual assault coordinator tasked with expanding training and recruiting workers. A Montana law that takes effect July 1 will create a sexual assault response network within the Montana Department of Justice. The new program aims to set standards for that care, provide in-state training, and connect examiners statewide. It will also look at telehealth to fill in gaps, following the example of hospitals in South Dakota and Colorado.

Theres no national tally of where nurses have been trained to respond to sexual assaults, meaning a survivor may not know they have to travel for treatment until theyre sitting in an emergency room or police department.

Sarah Wangerin, a nursing instructor with Montana State University and former examiner, said patients reeling from an attack may instead just go home. For some, leaving town isnt an option.

This spring, Wangerin called county hospitals and sheriffs offices to map where sexual assault nurse examiners operate in Montana. She found only 55. More than half of the 45 counties that responded didnt have any examiners. Just seven counties reported they had nurses trained to respond to cases that involve children.

Were failing people, Wangerin said. Were re-traumatizing them by not knowing what to do.

First Step, in Missoula, is one of the few full-time sexual assault response programs in the state. Its operated by Providence St. Patrick Hospital but is separate from the main building.

The clinics walls are adorned with drawings by kids and mountain landscapes. The staff doesnt turn on the harsh overhead fluorescent lights, choosing instead to light the space with softer lamps. The lobby includes couches and a rocking chair. There are always heated blankets and snacks on hand.

First Step stands out for having nurses who stay. Kate Harrison waited roughly a year to join the clinic and is still there three years later, in part because of the staff support.

The specially trained team works together so no one carries too heavy a load. While being on night shift means opening the clinic alone, staffers can debrief tough cases together. They attend group therapy for secondhand trauma.

Harrison is a cardiac hospital nurse during the day, a job that sometimes feels a little too stuck to a clock.

At First Step, she can shift into whatever role her patient needs for as long as they need. Once, that meant sitting for hours on a floor in the lobby of the clinic as a patient cried and talked. Another time, Harrison doubled as a DJ for a nervous patient during an exam, picking music off her cellphone.

Its in the middle of the night, she just had this sexual assault happen, and we were just laughing and singing to Shaggy, Harrison said. You have this freedom and grace to do that.

When the solo work is overwhelming or shes had back-to-back cases and needs a break, she knows a co-worker would be willing to help.

This work can take you to the undercurrents and the underbelly of society sometimes, Harrison said. It takes a team.

That includes co-workers like Towarnicki, who dropped her work hours at her day job after having her son to keep working as a sexual assault nurse examiner. That meant adding three years to her student loan repayment schedule. Now, pregnant with her second child, the work still feels worth it, she said.

On a recent night, Towarnicki was alone in the clinic, clicking through photos she took of her last patient. The patient opted against filing a police report but asked Towarnicki to log all the evidence just in case.

Towarnicki quietly counted out loud the number of bruises, their sizes and locations, as she took notes. She tells patients who have gaps in their memories that she cant speculate how each mark got there or give them all the answers they deserve.

But as she sat in the blue light of her computer screen long after her patient left, it was hard to keep from ruminating.

Totally looks like a hand mark, Towarnicki said, suddenly loud, as she shook her head.

All the evidence and her patients story were sealed and locked away, just feet from a wall of thank-you cards from patients and sticky notes of encouragement among nurses.

On the harder evenings, Towarnicki takes a moment to unwind with a pudding cup from the clinics snacks. Most often, she can let go of her patients story as she closes the clinic. Part of her healing is seeing the light returned to peoples eyes, seeing them be able to breathe deeper, which she said happens 19 out of 20 times.

There is that one out of 20 where I go home and I am spinning, Towarnicki said. In those cases, it takes hearing her sons voice, and time to process, to pull her back. I feel like if its not hard sometimes, maybe you shouldnt be doing this work.

It was a little after 11 p.m. as Towarnicki headed home, an early night. She knew her phone could go off again.

Eight more hours on call.

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MONDAY, May 8, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- The U.S. federal government has committed $5 million to study three existing and planned safe drug injection sites to see if they help prevent overdoses and whether they may offer savings in the health and criminal justice systems.

At these overdose prevention centers (OPCs), people can use heroin or other illegal drugs under supervision so they can potentially be revived if they overdose.

The funding would not pay to operate the sites, but to study two now open in New York City and a third thats opening next year in Providence, R.I. Researchers from New York University and Brown University expect to enroll about 1,000 adult drug users.

"We have an unprecedented opportunity to study the first publicly recognized overdose prevention centers in the country across two different states, as well as the impact on the communities in which they operate, said Magdalena Cerda, director of NYU Langone's Center for Opioid Epidemiology and Policy and one of the studys lead investigators.

This research is urgently needed to inform policies that can best support public health, as more jurisdictions across the country consider implementing OPCs," Cerda said in an NYU news release.

These sites can be controversial, with some worrying they will do damage to surrounding neighborhoods and encourage drug use. Supporters say they can save lives and help people find addiction treatment and other medical services, the Associated Press reported.

There is a lot of discussion about overdose prevention centers, but ultimately, we need data to see if they are working or not, and what impact they may have on the community, said Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), which awarded the grant.

About 107,000 died of drug overdoses in 2021 in the United States, according to NIDA.

Existing injections sites operate in 14 countries, including Canada, Australia and France. New York City opened the first publicly known U.S. site in 2021.

Its possible theyll grow to include other states, but bills allowing them were vetoed last year by governors in California and Vermont. The Pennsylvania Senate banned them last week, the AP reported.

The White Houses drug control strategy emphasizes harm reduction, which focuses on getting care for people who use drugs rather than punishing them, and the U.S. Justice Department allows the sites.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health is studying programs offering services and supplies that can reverse overdoses and test drugs for fentanyl. This new study is a part of that project, the AP reported.

More information

The University of Southern California has more on safe injection sites.

SOURCES: Associated Press, NYU Langone, news release, May 8, 2023
With the most recent semester coming to a close for Muscatines local community college students, the public is invited to cheer these students on either in person or from their homes as they break out the caps and gowns.

All three of Eastern Iowa Community Colleges  Muscatine, Scott and Clinton  will host their 92nd, 56th and 76th commencement ceremonies, respectively, this week in honor of 2023s spring graduates. According to EICC, more than 1,000 graduates are expected to walk across the stages throughout the three planned ceremonies.

The first of these ceremonies is for Muscatine Community College at 6 p.m. Friday, May 12, at Calvary Church, 501 West Bypass 61 in Muscatine. Guests can begin arriving for the ceremony starting at 5 p.m. Graduates and their guests will also have an opportunity for pictures in the Commons immediately after the ceremony.

Of the over 1,000 students who are graduating this week, 164 are graduating from Muscatine Community College. Of those, 48 will receive an Associate in Arts, 13 are receiving an Associate in Science and 42 are receiving an Associate in Applied Science.

Commencement is a time of joy and triumph for our students, their families and the entire college community, EICC Chancellor, Dr. Sonya J. Williams said. We are immensely proud of our college graduates and their remarkable achievements. Through their hard work, perseverance and dedication, they have earned this much-deserved recognition and we cant wait to celebrate their success. Muscatines commencement ceremony will be my first as EICC Chancellor, and Im greatly looking forward to celebrating this significant milestone with our entire community.

MCC President Dr. Naomi DeWinter also gave a statement on the occasion:

Every year, we look forward to graduation with excitement and anticipation. The impact our graduates will make in their communities with their education is immeasurable. By pursuing higher education and earning their degrees, they have acquired the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary to make a positive difference in a variety of fields and industries.

For those who may be unable to make it to the ceremony, all three will be livestreamed on the EICC Facebook page. More information on upcoming EICC events can also be found on its Facebook page on the EICC website.
An intruder allegedly spent four hours inside an eastern Iowa nursing home before the staff found him partially undressed in bed with a female resident.

According to newly released state inspection reports, the intruder  later identified by police as Michael James Beaver, 54, of West Branch  interacted with the staff at Crestview Specialty Care in West Branch on April 5 before being found in the residents bed.

During those hours, one of the workers expressed concern that Beaver appeared to be homeless. Another worker twice gave Beaver directions to the victims room, and one employee heard the woman crying out, Help me while being wheeled through the facility by Beaver.

Beaver has not been criminally charged, although he is currently facing a charge of indecent exposure for his alleged conduct in a public library two days before the incident at Crestview. The nursing homes owners, Care Initiatives of West Des Moines, have not responded to calls from the Iowa Capital Dispatch.

The state inspectors reports provide a timeline of the events that occurred on April 5, according to the statements given to inspectors by the Crestview staff:

10:30 a.m.: A nurse aide saw a male stranger walking around the facility, appearing to look for someone.

11 a.m.: The aide saw the man pushing a female resident in her wheelchair and calling her mom. The resident  the same woman with whom Beaver would later be found in bed  was legally blind and was one of 26 residents at the home with cognitive issues.

11:30 a.m.: A second aide saw Beaver pushing the resident in her wheelchair. Beaver asked the aide where the residents room was and was told, Down the hall, to the left and her name should be on the door.

Noon: A third aide noticed the resident was at her table, eating lunch alone. Around that time, an aide approached the director of nursing and informed her there was a stranger who looked a little dirty sitting in a common area. The aide said the man had dirt on his face and clothing and, to her, appeared to be homeless. The director of nursing left her office, looked at the man later determined to be Beaver, and said he might be a family member of a resident.

12:30 p.m.: The aide who had contacted the director of nursing saw Beaver pushing the female resident in her wheelchair down a hallway, with the woman calling out, Help me. The aide said she thought nothing of it as the resident often said such things.

1 p.m.: At this point, and for some unspecified time afterward, the staff observed Beaver pushing the resident in her wheelchair throughout the facility. The aide who had previously given Beaver directions to the residents room saw him looking confused by the front door, so she gave him a reminder, saying, Remember, I told you, her room is down the other way.

2:40 p.m.: Two aides told the director of nursing something weird was going on in the residents room: A man is in bed with the resident, claiming to be just cuddling with her.

2:45 p.m.: The director of nursing and a registered nurse entered the residents room. The residents head was at the foot of the bed, Beaver was under the covers, but appeared to be shirtless with his pants pulled down. The residents one-piece jumpsuit was unzipped halfway in the back.

The director of nursing asked what was going on and Beaver replied that he was just trying to help her sleep. The director of nursing asked him why he wasnt dressed, Beaver said he had his clothes on. The director of nursing replied, Having pants around your ankles in not having clothes on.

The staff removed Beaver from the residents bed at which point he zipped up his jacket and attempted to leave, saying, I will get out of the way. The director of nursing replied, No, you will stay until the police come, and the staff escorted him to the lobby.

Home cited for abuse and safety violations

Beaver initially told the staff he was a distant relative of the resident. Later, he reportedly said he was not related to her but had known her about 20 years prior. The residents nephew reported he had never heard of Beaver, but declined to have the resident sent to a hospital for an assessment.

The resident said nothing at the time but was reported to be anxious and tearful. When questioned a short time later, she had no recollection of the incident.

The police, who had picked up Beaver earlier in the day and dropped him off at a trailer park, took him to a local hospital for psychiatric commitment and evaluation.

The incident resulted in possible distress for the resident, state inspectors concluded, while noting that a physical assessment conducted at Crestview resulted in no findings that the resident had been assaulted.

The facility took all precautions necessary to mitigate another similar incident of this type, according to state inspectors. The home had placed residents in immediate jeopardy, the inspectors concluded, but they lowered the scope and severity of the violation after concluding the staff had immediately corrected the problem by locking the doors to the facility, educating the staff, creating a visitors log, and installing a doorbell at the front entrance for visitors to gain entry.

Prior to those changes, visitors had only to push a button near the front door to enter the building.

The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals imposed and immediately suspended two $6,500 fines against Crestview  one for failing to protect residents from abuse and one for failing to keep residents safe. With the state fines suspended, the federal Centers for Medicaid and Medicaid Services will consider what federal penalties, if any, will be imposed.

Court records show that two days before the incident at Crestview, Beaver was arrested and charged with indecent exposure at the Iowa City Public Library. According to the arrest report, video evidence showed Beaver entering the library, going to the computers on the second floor, taking off his sweatshirt and pants, placing a jacket over his genitals, and then spending four hours watching pornographic videos while reaching under his jacket and stimulating himself.

The day after he was arrested, he was released from jail on his own recognizance. District Associate Judge Jason A. Burns released Beaver on the condition that he not return to the library. The indecent exposure case is still pending.

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Russia is enacting a major security clampdown before annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Authorities are curbing the use of drones and car-sharing services and even jet skis on the canals of St. Petersburg amid the 14-month war with Ukraine. Russian media said Monday that at least 21 Russian cities canceled May 9 military parades for the time in years. The events are the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia. Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. Russia was rattled last week by reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into Moscow and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.
Interior Cabinet Secretary (CS) Prof Kithure Kindiki has warned politicians against politicizing the Shakahola cult massacre.

Speaking after Opposition leader Raila Odinga was Friday denied access to the site of the mass graves, CS Kindiki said Shakahola Forest in Kilifi County is a security operation zone.

He said the only political leaders allowed are members of the parliamentary security committee.

I allowed the National Assembly Security Committee to access Shakahola because it is a security operation zone and Parliament has a role. The other politicians, keep off. Dont bring politics to Shakahola, he said.

Those who want to play politics can go out there and fight their battles but we cannot politicize national security. This applies to all politicians.

Those leaders who are going to play politics there should know that Shakahola is a security operation zone and they should keep off. Let them be warned that next time we will not be as courteous and we will deal with them no matter who they are, he added.

CS Kindiki said the government has nothing to hide and will reveal the truth once the security operation is complete.

He said 112 bodies have been dug up so far, with the exhumation exercise to resume on Tuesday.

There are some pictures we cannot allow to be beamed on national television on grounds of medical and security ethics. We cannot allow filming of decomposing bodies of other peoples mothers, fathers and children, Kindiki explained.
A group of Kenyans living and working in the diaspora spoke to Life & Style about their experiences in a foreign country.

VICTOR OMONDI, 28

Student, Netherlands I moved from Kenya in 2021 for further studies after securing a scholarship to pursue a joint Masters degree in Limnology and Wetlands management.

The degree is jointly offered by Boku University in Vienna Austria, Egerton University in Nakuru Kenya and IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, the Netherlands.

I started my classes in September 2021 and I am currently preparing for my graduation on April 25, 2023.

My experience in the Netherlands has been amazing. My relocation presented me with an opportunity to explore and interact with people from different regions and continents.

When I came here two years ago, I faced a little culture shock, but I have now adjusted.

This was not my first time travelling out of the country. I have been to Austria City in Vienna where I attended the first semester of my programme in September 2021.

My experience there was also amazing. The citizens of the country were friendly. My only challenge was the language barrier.

Most of the residents there speak German while I could not speak the language well enough to be understood.

What I like about the Netherlands is that the public transport, infrastructure as well as social welfare all work smoothly.

We also have numerous job opportunities here. I sometimes get to work part time in the hospitality industry, or in events organising. I think if I had remained in Kenya, I could still have achieved my dreams, only that I came across an opportunity I couldnt let go.

So far, I can gladly say that I have acquired the skills I dearly needed, plus the exposure and the extraordinary experience of living and studying in Europe. That was a dream come true.

With modern technology especially in lectures, my classes have been exciting and orderly.

My major challenge, however, is the culture shock. People here lead very different lives. Additionally, the language is still an issue, but I am glad that my school has a number of international learners who understand English.

Since I came, my main focus has been my studies. I am yet to hold a full time job, and this will be my goal once I graduate. I also have plans of returning to Kenya, although I am not sure when.

As a country, I strongly believe that we dont provide the youth with opportunities and quality education.

Almost all my Kenyan colleagues and those from other African countries say they do not want to go back home because of the high unemployment rates back there.
Ruele Okeyo, 26, is the U=U(Undetectable = Untransmittable) ambassador for Kenya in Africa.

U=U means that people with HIV can achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load by taking ARVs daily as prescribed and cannot sexually transmit the virus to others.

Ruele also runs a safe house for LGBTQ+ youth who are left homeless after they have been kicked out of their home by their parents or their family with no immediate support mechanisms.

The human rights activist also uses spreads awareness through TikTok, where he shares videos taking ARV pills in public. He spoke to Turning Point:

Briefly introduce yourself.

My name is Ruele Okeyo, a man openly living with HIV, a human rights defender, an HIV champion, working towards eradicating HIV transmission, and a U=U ambassador for Kenya in Africa, under the prevention access campaign.

When and how did you learn of your HIV status?

It was on September 24, 2020, when I went to an outreach program (an outreach is where the clinic comes to you instead of you going to the clinic). I tested HIV positive, and was distraught by the news that I asked the health care provider to repeat the test and the results still came back positive. Being in denial, I waited two days before I went to a clinic and did the tests again. The two tests came back positive, again.

What was your initial reaction?

My initial reaction was shock, I was just 23 years old at the time. I had so much anger and pain because I thought my life had come to an end. Of course, I did not accept immediately, acceptance is a gradual process. You do not just wake up and say you have accepted, there will be so many bad days but the good will overpower them. One day I woke up and HIV no longer bothered me, but this was months after. Even before accepting, I was taking my medication because my health was compromised and I would not want to make the situation worse.

What was your motivation for recording yourself taking HIV drugs and posting the content on social media?

For this, a close friend, Doreen Moraa, encouraged me to expand my audience reach. I was already creating messages and awareness on HIV but it was majorly audio. I needed to transition to video and she suggested TikTok. Upon investigation, I saw that some HIV activists were creating really sad content that made me angry. Instead of creating messages of hope, they were creating messages that do the opposite. In my previous work, people would reach out with struggles of taking medication, even in the comfort of their own houses. So by taking mine publicly, I thought that would change the playing field, which I can proudly say it has.

Can you say this has contributed to your popularity on social media?

I cant say I am popular, although I would say that it is because this is something that most people relate to. A silent battle for most people who will not be in a position to do what I do, so I speak to them directly, according to statistics, there are 1.5 million people in Kenya living with HIV, and those are the people I create my content for.

How did you become a U=U ambassador for the African Forum?

I applied for the call.

How do you deal with negative online trolls about your campaigns?

It depends on the context really, often times I ignore it, and sometimes I educate and try to make you look at things from a different perspective. I try to figure out that maybe you do not have the information, but if you come ready to fight, I revert with the same energy lol!

What is the reaction of your family regarding your situation and campaigns, are they supportive?

My family is supportive, my dad being my biggest supporter in everything I do.

What is the biggest challenge you are going through other than the stigma from the community?

One challenge that people living with HIV face aside from stigma is medication adherence. Not so many people are taking their medication due to one reason or the other. And this is leading to the rise in HIV transmission, hence the work I do to reduce that by encouraging people to take their medication.

Your parting shot?

You do not have to accept your health status to start taking your medication, acceptance is a journey. Start your medication because your immunity is compromised. Acceptance will catch up with you and you will be happy you started taking medication.
Patricia Ithau is the Chief Executive Officer of WPP-Scan group, a Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) listed advertising firm. In one year since she took office, the firm has bounced back to profitability, from Sh37.9 million loss to Sh75 million profit.

Ithau spoke to Financial Standard about her experience at the firm, her strategy going forward, why technology is the key to the business and why she is keen about Non-Fungible Tokens(NFT).

How has your first year at WPP Scangroup been?

Lets start with the fact that it has gone quickly.

I guess this happens when you are having fun. I have not at any time had a moment to regret my decision to have joined this organisation.

Just getting into it, and seeing the enormous potential that the business has been very enlightening. It confirmed the things I knew about the foundation and history of this organisation and why it is where it is.

Did your three-year tenure earlier as a board member in the company play any role in your settling in the office?

In some way, I can say that it had. My learning curve was a lot shorter. I left the board in 2020. The beauty of it is when you come back, you are familiar with the business. It really helped me get grounded a lot faster.

You took office following a turbulent leadership row that was public. How did you go about building confidence with clients afterward?

I think clients look to see are you serving us?; that is what matters. They look to see who are people doing the work and if the work is getting done. And that is the confidence that I have spent the last year building.

You moved from a loss to now profitability. Do you have any secret to that?

We still have a ton of work to do to unlock value in this organisation. A lot of the profitability came from the assets that we have in the form of cash.

We are indeed a very liquid business which is a huge advantage. The next thing is how to turn that asset to even work harder for us. For me, going forward, what is important is that it is more sustainable fundamentals that really drive our profits, in particular operating profits.

How do you plan to take advantage of booming regional and continental trade?

Where we are blessed is we have businesses on the ground in all the different economic trading zones. We have businesses in Zambia, Tanzania and South Africa  that helps us with the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

We have businesses in Ghana and Nigeria; that helps us with Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). We have a business with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania which helps us with EAC.

Just having that helps us because we can shift and lead our business based on what works.

As a regional business, you are among those affected by 16 per cent VAT on exported services which was recently scrapped. How do you see business going forward?

I think this will be a fantastic positive because it had a huge implication for us.

You can imagine when you are working with a regional business like Airtel if a core team is based here, and we do a service across the different markets they are in, trying to charge VAT on that, it came as a surprise to us last year. So the reversal of that will really help us in terms of allowing us to be more flexible.

You are bold in getting into Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) as part of growing the business. Why as other businesses avoid them?

Oh, they dont. But we want to be ahead.

Actually, if you look at creativity at some of the global businesses, they are starting to use NFT in terms of creating promotions. It is fascinating. If you study some of those NFT promotions, you find they can be used as a promotional tool, which consumers pick up, and when you get X number, you can then go and claim them, for a particular product like a food product.

Or where you have a particular brand where you get consumers to design the best one using an NFT and you get people to buy and use it and through it, you are creating the story of that particular brand.

It is incredible; very futuristic but we have to test it right now.

What role will technology play in the future of the business?

I am absolutely passionate about the future of data and technology when it comes to marketing and communications in the future. If we do not get that right, I think we will be left behind.

I am also passionate about the reality of the organisation. The shape of organisations has completely changed. If you are not nimble or agile and recognise that you need an organisation that has a lot of flexibility.

A lot of people now want to be virtual, they talk of the gig economy. If you do not recognise that it becomes difficult in the sector we are in where we deal with young people.

Where do you derive your passion?

I love this. I mean it. This is a space I enjoy. If you do what you enjoy it will show. And I really enjoy this.
The city of St. Helena will hold a public forum on Measure T projects and pavement repairs from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, at City Hall, 1088 College Ave.

City officials will discuss the addition of streets to the pavement repair plan, information about pavement restoration best practices, and a prioritization plan to include additional streets in the list of projects for fiscal year 2022-23.
The Napa County Sheriffs Office reported three arrests resulting from a fight at a local home late Saturday night.

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Deputies were called at 11:57 p.m. to a disturbance at a home in the 1000 block of Wyatt Avenue, where a resident had suffered a head wound from a large metal spoon, according to sheriffs Deputy Marcus Solis.

Witnesses said three people involved in the disturbance  including one who had threatened other people with a knife  had left the home out the back, and deputies found and detained three men in the backyard, Solis said.

The sheriffs office identified all of the suspects as residents at the home  28-year-old Sahdev Singh, 20-year-old Laddi Gill and 29-year-old Kuleep Singh.

Gill and Sahdev Singh were booked into the Napa County Jail on suspicion of felony assault, and they and Kuleep Singh also were booked on a misdemeanor assault and battery allegation.

The victim of the attack was treated by medics at the scene, according to Solis.
Back when Terry Wooten took on the CEO job at Napas Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center in July 2021, he hoped that COVID-19 was on the wane.

I was thinking that pandemic was behind us and I was going to jump in this new job and new community and really just look towards the future, Wooten said.

Things didnt go exactly as planned.

A month after I got here, another wave of the pandemic came through, he recalled. And I think we had one or two more after that.

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During that crisis, according to Wooten, everything was kind of put on pause as the hospital focused on the worldwide health emergency, not growth.

So even though I've been here 18 months, Its only been in the past 12 months that I feel like Im executing on strategies that have been non-COVID-related or traditional hospital strategies of growth and quality outcomes.

Today, Wooten and the Queen have been able to move on from the worst of the pandemic, and plans for the Napa medical center continue to emerge.

It's kind of it feels like spring, in that sense, said Wooten. Winter is behind us. We're moving into new era; things are blossoming and it's exciting.

Wooten, a Southern California native, has been with St. Joseph Health and Providence hospitals for more than 26 years. He took over from the previous CEO Larry Comes.

This health care executive had most recently worked as COO for Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo and Laguna Beach.

Before that, Wooten was vice president for clinical supply chain for the St. Joseph Health System Office, and earlier held a variety of roles at St. Joseph Hospital in the city of Orange, California, including director of business and materials resources, surgical services and endoscopy.

Wooten takes the reins at Napa hospital Terry Wooten got his first hospital job as a college student working the night shift in the ER. Today, he's the new head at Napa's Queen of the Valley Medical Center.

Wooten earned a masters degree in health care administration from the University of Southern California. He lives in Napa.

This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

Terry, youve been on the job for just about 18 months. Hows it going?

It's going great.

I've worked in health care for over 26 years. Ive always worked at a community hospital, but it's different at the Queen because it is truly the community hospital, and our caregivers are taking care of their own neighbors.

It's really a different feeling (and) aspect that I'm enjoying. Becoming a part of the community has been phenomenal and fantastic.

Now that COVID-19 is less of an emergency and you can focus on the traditional CEO role, what are you working on?

One of the things I'm really excited about is starting to do construction and refreshing some things around the hospital. So we started our emergency room refresh project, and were putting in our Winiarski Stroke and Diagnostics Center.

What does the ER refresh include?

Were adding seven more bays to the ER so we can see more patients, plus the stroke and diagnostic center to allow our clinical team to treat and care for stroke patients in a timely manner. It will be done by the end of this year.

How will you fit seven new beds into the ER?

We have a department right behind the ER that has been closed for more than a decade. The Queen used to have a contract with the Department of Corrections and we had an area that was secure where we would see inmates.

Say more about the Winiarski stroke and diagnostic center.

Right after I started, Warren Winiarski gave a donation for us to build out and bring in a new CT scanner. Its adjacent to the ER so that when a patient comes in presenting with stroke symptoms, we can get them quickly to the CT, get that diagnostic and start treating them immediately.

Our current CT scanner is in the basement and it is older technology. So we're going to be able to purchase a new one and actually put it right in the center of the ER.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact the Queen and how is it recovering?

COVID-19 had a major impact on the Queen. All focus was on COVID and treating COVID patients. So that meant pausing some of our elective procedures so that we could have the resources and the staff to focus on caring for patients.

How did that impact employees?

Across the U.S., we definitely saw an exodus of caregivers for a variety of reasons during the pandemic. So now we're in the mode of recovering from all of that.

How exactly do you recover from that?

Step by step. Recruiting new nurses, new health care workers across the board, and really building our team back up. That includes recruiting physicians here to the community. If you go to our website and look at employment opportunities  there's just such a need.

And really just opening our doors back up. We are fully open. As of April 3 we've been able to roll back most of the restrictions that we had to put in place during COVID.

We're getting back up to normal operations. So I think part of that is letting our community know: It is time to think about your health again, get back into your physician offices and those things that you have been putting off. Let's get those taken care of.

What should readers know about the Queen post-pandemic?

Some of the things that we're working on as we come out of the pandemic is to continue to grow our workforce. We have 1,275 employees today. In 2019, the Queen had 1,178 employees.

So we started an amazing program to train our new grads called the Clinical Academy Nursing Residency Program, and we're just recently recognized and credentialed by the American Nurses Credentialing Center commission.

The nursing shortage and health care worker shortage is happening across the United States. We're doing things to get people in the door now and to hire new grads, but then you think about what's going to happen five, 10, 15 years from now. And so we launched a health care careers scholarship specific for Napa County residents to help them pursue an education in health care either at the junior college or Pacific Union College. We're going through the process now of selecting the recipients but it will be a scholarship up to $25,000. This first year, I think we're going to give out two scholarships.

Ultimately, is the Queen downsizing?

No, we don't have a goal to downsize or make the Queen smaller or offer fewer services. Our goal is still to treat the community. We are still a trauma center. We're in the only hospital in the valley that delivers babies. We are a stroke receiving center, heart center and cancer center. We still have our affiliation with UCSF for our neuro program. All of these things are still here at the Queen.

Have there been complaints, especially during COVID-19, about using traveling nurses instead of staff nurses at the Queen?

Traveling nurses have always played an important role in our ability to fill gaps in our workforce both during COVID and after. While having local, permanent caregivers is always our goal, travelers have been a critical resource to help us continue our commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care to our community.

I will offer that it's sometimes difficult to work with travelers. Because you have people that are coming and going (compared to a permanent co-worker). Travelers, even though they weren't a (permanent) part of the community, they're still part of the profession. So we didn't see a difference in the level of care or the quality of the outcome because of our travelers. They were held to and expected to follow the same policies, practices and procedures. So that did not change.

Whats a common misconception you get about the Queen?

I think biggest misconception is whether or not the Queen is still a not-for-profit hospital.

Yes, we are still a nonprofit organization serving our community. A lot of that (misconception) came about with our merger with Providence (in 2016).

St. Joseph Health was founded by the Sisters of St. Joe's and we merged with an organization that was founded by the Sisters of Providence. The Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joe's are like-minded communities with the goal of serving our communities, especially those who are the most poor and vulnerable amongst us.

Is it a misconception that the Queen is in crisis?

Are we in crisis? No. We are not in crisis.

We are refreshing our emergency room and expanding our capabilities so that we are here for the community. We are hiring and constantly looking for new people to come work at the Queen. We continue to partner with different organizations throughout Napa Valley to bring care to people within the community.

And then since I've been here, we really have tried to bring back some of our some of the fun public things that we do. So we had our Trunk or Treat in the fall where we invited our elementary school students here, and that was a great turnout. We did our Christmas tree lighting in December. We were able to do that in person. We had several of the high schools come out and participate in that. Just a couple of weeks ago our acute rehab unit hosted an Easter egg hunt for the community.

Whats something that people dont always realize about the Queen?

People don't often know all the work that the Queen is doing in the community. (For example,) we have a Community Health Investment Team, a team of social workers, nurses (and) administrators that are out in the community, caring for the most vulnerable, working with those who may be uninsured and making sure that they are getting the care that they need. We're helping them navigate the health care system, but also helping them get housed and so forth.

Every three years we do a health needs assessment in the community to really understand what the needs are and what's happening in the community. And after that assessment, the Community Health investment team sets up their priorities and goals for the next three years based on the findings of that. And so they're in the middle of doing that assessment right now, which will consist of doing interviews of different groups of people throughout Napa County, from Calistoga all the way down to American Canyon  from the young to the elderly and everything in between.

What other capabilities are being expanded that people should know about?

One project that we're going to get rolling soon is to replace one of our MRIs (with new technology) called 3T MRI. Its a community-funded capital purchase that we've been fundraising for over the last year. We've completed the fundraiser for that so we can actually start the construction. It's going to take another 12 to 18 months for us to get that installed.

Some locals might almost take the Queen for granted, in a way. Is it typical for communities the size of Napa County to have a hospital like the Queen?

Not at all. Most communities this size would have a smaller hospital with definitely less procedures, less technology and equipment. It would be like a smaller hospital where you're coming into an emergency room and then transferred to a larger facility in a neighboring city.

What we're able to offer is really because of the community support. (We have) technology that you would not see in a small community but is made possible through the support of community members. It's important for the community to continue to support the Queen and in their donations.

In the past the Queen has gone through some very contentious union negotiations. Whats going on with labor at the Queen today?

We are not currently negotiating any new contract(s), but we have two union contracts coming up this year: our CNA (California Nurses Association) and our Local 39 (International Union of Operating Engineers).

I'm hoping that it's something that we can do quickly; that we can come together in the interest of our caregivers to come up with that new contract and that it doesn't take a long time for us to reach a decision.

What kinds of resources do you check regularly in your role as a hospital CEO?

I look at Becker's Hospital Review, I look at Modern Healthcare; I follow the American College of Healthcare Executives as well. I check in with my colleagues, other CEOs in Northern California, quite often. And I am a big Googler.

Any particular groups in Napa that you're a part of that you want to give a shout-out to?

I did join Sunrise Rotary this year. We meet at Silverado (Resort), Thursday mornings at 7 a.m.

Do you have any closing comments for this Q&A?

The Queen is still here. We are a community hospital that is here to serve the community and to care for everyone that is here. And we have some amazing caregivers and some amazing physicians that are also members of the community that take pride in caring for their dear neighbors.

Photos: Napa's Queen of the Valley Medical Centerits faces and places Queen of the Valley Medical Center A New Year baby at Queen of the Valley Vacaville Fire Department Gianna Peralta, MPH, CIC Napa High School Chamber Choir Nurses at Queen of the Valley Medical Center Catie Robertson, RN Pizzas for hospital workers Face shields Making face shields Dr. Manjappa at Queen of the Valley Medical Center Dr. Adhye and Janice Peters RN Robotics Career Day Queen labor and delivery nurses Madeline Hill and Judy Towe Mako System at the Queen Queen of the Valley Medical Center chapel. Photos: Faces and Places, December 8 Queen of the Valley Medical Center Tree Lighting Queen of the Valley Medical Center Chief Executive, Larry Coomes, welcomes guests to Generous Heart 2019. Picket at the Queen Aura M. Silva Daddy Boot Camp
OAKLAND  The Roman Catholic Bishop of Oakland announced Monday that the Diocese of Oakland has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in light of about 330 lawsuits alleging child sexual abuse under a recent California statute that allowed decades-old cases to be reopened.

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The Catholic schools that operate within the Diocese are part of separate legal entities and were not included in the filing, according to a statement from diocese spokesperson Helen Osman. They will continue to operate, Osman said.

Employees will continue to be paid as usual, and their benefit programs will continue uninterrupted, Osman said.

Vendors also will be paid for all their goods and services.

By filing under Chapter 11, the merits of each claim will be evaluated in a transparent process and gives the claimants a say in the outcome, Osman said. It also will stop all legal actions against the RCBO, allowing for a plan or reorganization based on assets and insurance coverage available to settle claims.

After careful consideration of the various alternatives for providing just compensation to innocent people who were harmed, we believe this process is the best way to ensure a fair and equitable outcome for survivors, Bishop Michael C. Barber said in a statement. It will also allow RCBO to stabilize its finances and continue the sacred mission entrusted to us by Christ and the Church.

Most of the claims come from allegations of sexual abuse by priests in the diocese in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. The priests have either died or are not involved in the ministry anymore, according to Osman.

It is important we take responsibility for the damage done so we can all move beyond this moment and provide survivors with some measure of peace, Barbers statement said. Sadly for many, the pain caused by these horrific sins, no matter when they occurred, will never wash away, which is why we offer support to survivors and pray for their continued healing.

The Diocese of Oakland serves 550,000 Catholics in the East Bay.

The move follows a bankruptcy filing in March by the Diocese of Santa Rosa, which also cited the prospect of millions of dollars in liabilities related to pending child sexual abuse claims filed in court over a three-year window when California paused its statute of limitations for filing child sex abuse claims. At least 222 pending lawsuits name that diocese as a defendant or co-defendant, Mike Reck, an attorney for Anderson & Associates, a national firm engaged in child sexual abuse litigation, said at the time.

Bishops of the Sacramento and San Diego dioceses signaled earlier this year they also are likely to file for bankruptcy protection.

Survivors' attorneys have criticized the tactic in part because it removes the cases from civil court, where victims are allowed to present evidence of alleged abuse.

"The Diocese of Oakland's decision to declare bankruptcy is a calculated decision in hopes to silence and suppress survivors of abuse," said attorney Jeff Anderson, whose firm represents more than 75 people with claims against the diocese.

The bankruptcy process is more about finding a way for the diocese to stay afloat while meeting its potential financial obligations to survivors than it is about uncovering the facts behind their claims.

"It is, unfortunately, another stab at hiding information regarding perpetrators and the crimes committed by and through the church, as well as their assets and financial information, for the benefit of the church at the expense of those who have been seriously harmed as children," said attorney Jennifer Stein.

"Survivors, the parishioners of the Diocese of Oakland, and the public deserve to know the full truth," Stein said.

With reports from Napa Valley Register city editor Howard Yune and Bay City News Service reporter Kiley Russell.
Stacey Abrams, a prominent Democratic voting rights advocate and former Georgia gubernatorial candidate, endorsed U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, Monday morning for U.S. Senate.

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"Barbara Lee is the leader California and the nation need right now in the U.S. Senate," said Abrams in a statement. "I am proud to endorse her for the U.S. Senate."

Lee is running against two House colleagues, U.S. Reps. Katie Porter, D-Irvine, and Adam Schiff, D-Burbank, to capture the seat being vacated by longtime Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who announced in February that she would not seek re-election in 2024. Republican attorney Eric Early announced in April that he would also pursue the seat.

"I am honored and grateful to be endorsed by Stacey Abrams," said Lee. "Her grassroots organizing was instrumental in changing the face of Georgia and moving the needle for progress in this country."

Abrams, the former Georgia General Assembly House minority leader, is largely credited among Democrats with building a voter registration campaign that helped secure the state for President Biden in 2020.

Feinstein, 89, said she would serve the remainder of her term through the end of the year, but her absence since late February from her seat on the Senate Judiciary committee due to shingles has prompted some calls for her to resign, including by Lee's campaign chair, U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Fremont.

"It's time for @SenFeinstein to resign," Khanna said on social media on April 12. "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."

Rep. Barbara Lee joins race for Dianne Feinstein's U.S. Senate seat U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee on Tuesday launched her campaign for the Senate seat held by the retiring Dianne Feinstein, joining two fellow House Democrats in the race in the nation's most populous state.

In response to critics who say Democrats cannot advance judicial nominees during her absence, which creates a 10-10 tie in the Judiciary Committee, Feinstein pushed back in a statement on Thursday that said that there had been no slowdown in confirming nominees.

"While the Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced eight strong nominees during my absence, I'm disappointed that Republicans on the committee are blocking a few from moving forward," Feinstein said. "I'm confident that when I return to the Senate, we will be able to move the remaining qualified nominees out of committee quickly and to the Senate floor for a vote."

The campaign, still in its early stages, is shaping up to be a contest to secure high-profile Democratic endorsements. Lee was also endorsed on Wednesday by U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, D-South Carolina, and has announced several other endorsements from California and national Democrats.

Schiff has been endorsed by U.S. Reps. Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco and Anna Eshoo, D-Menlo Park, among others.

Porter has received the endorsement of U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts.

Photos: Sen. Dianne Feinstein through the years
Trinity College Dublin, a university in Ireland, will remove the name Berkeley from its main library on campus, The New York Times reported. The university concluded that George Berkeley, for whom the library is named, owned slaves in colonial Rhode Island, according to the Times.

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UC Berkeley was also named for the 18th-century philosopher, but a spokesman for the university told the Times that it has no plans to change its name.

We acknowledge that the universitys founders chose to name their new town and campus after an individual whose views warrant no honor or commemoration, said the spokesman, Dan Mogulof. He added that the name Berkeley has come to embody and represent very different values and perspectives.

The provost of Trinity College, Linda Doyle, said in a statement that the Berkeley name conflicts with the colleges values.

George Berkeleys enormous contribution to philosophical thought is not in question, Doyle said. However, it is also clear that he was both an owner of enslaved people and a theorist of slavery and racial discrimination, which is in clear conflict with Trinitys core values.

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Should California hold a special election to fill a U.S. Senate vacancy, instead of having Gov. Gavin Newsom appoint someone to fill the seat?

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Some states leave the choice of a successor to voters and a California congressman is pushing to have all states proceed that way.

One downside of special elections is that they are expensive. The unsuccessful effort to recall Newsom in 2021 cost California an estimated $276 million.

And because turnout would likely be low  meaning that highly motivated activists would be more likely to vote  the chances of a political novice or a Republican winning in California would increase.

I dont think a Republican could win a Senate race in California, but a special election might crack open the door ever so slightly in the way a regularly scheduled election might not, said Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabatos Crystal Ball, a nonpartisan political site.

Sen. Scott Brown, a Republican, won a 2010 special election in Massachusetts to succeed the late Sen. Ted Kennedy, the Democrat who held the seat for 47 years.

Brown lost the general election three years later to Democrat Elizabeth Warren. Hes the only Republican to serve in the Senate from Massachusetts since 1979. California last elected a Republican senator in 1988.

Should voters decide?

In a closely divided Senate like the current one  split 50-50 last year and Democrats now with 51 of the 100 seats  a gubernatorial appointment could be a game changer.

The evenly split Senate means that even a single governor could, hypothetically, determine which party controls the chamber, said a report from the nonpartisan Pew Research Center last year.

Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin, argues Gubernatorial appointments are a vestige of a bygone era that has disenfranchised millions of Americans and been subject to repeated abuse.

Kiley has proposed an amendment to the U.S. Constitution requiring special elections in case of a vacancy. The Constitutions 17th Amendment, which provides for direct election of U.S. senators (prior to that state legislatures chose), also allows a temporary appointment if theres a vacancy. How that seat is filled is up to the states.

In 37 states, including California, governors make interim appointments to the Senate, and the new incumbent serves until the next general election, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The other 13 have special elections to fill the seat as soon as possible. In some cases the governor can name someone to serve in the interim.

States have tried to move in both directions in recent years. Utah and North Dakota have made it easier to hold special elections.

Others have tinkered with the appointment process. Maryland and Kentucky now require an appointee to be of the same political party as the departing senator, joining five other states.

When Vice President Kamala Harris, a Democrat, took office in January 2021, Newsom appointed Alex Padilla, then the California secretary of state.

Padilla then was on the ballot twice last year, once to fill Harris unexpired term and then for a six-year term of his own. He easily won both elections. Other states usually hold a special election as soon as possible.

Appointed senators

The Senate currently has one appointed member who has not stood for election, Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Nebraska. He was named in January when incumbent Sen. Ben Sasse resigned to become president of the University of Florida.

Ricketts, a former Nebraska governor, would have to run in 2024 to fill the last two years of Sasses term. He was appointed by his successor, Jim Pillen.

Eleven other current U.S. senators were first appointed to the job and then won elections. Two appointed senators, Martha McSally, R-Arizona, and Kelly Loeffler, R-Georgia, lost in 2020.

Newsom has said that if a vacancy occurs, he will name a Black woman to the seat. Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, is currently seeking to succeed Dianne Feinstein when the senators term ends in 2025. Among those also vying are Democratic Reps. Adam Schiff of Los Angeles and Katie Porter of Orange County.

Kileys idea has been proposed before. In 2009, the Senates Constitution subcommittee backed the plan after a hearing, but it went nowhere.

Even if Kileys plan gained momentum, its highly doubtful it could take effect before 2024, when California voters will choose a senator to serve a six-year term.

Amending the Constitution takes time. The last amendment, ratified in 1992, said any pay raises Congress voted itself were only effective after the next election. It was the first to be added since 1971 when the voting age was lowered from 21 to 18. Usually, Congress must approve an amendment by a two-thirds majority, and the measure would need the approval of the legislatures of 38 states.

Congress can also call a constitutional convention if two-thirds of the states approve.

Feinsteins support

Feinstein is expected to return to the Senate soon, though no timetable has been set.

Though four House Democrats and dozens of California liberal groups have urged her to resign, no senator has done so.

Almost all have expressed hope that she will return soon, as she said she plans to do.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, a Senate Judiciary Committee member who rarely agrees with Feinstein on policy, spoke warmly of her and was not eager to see her replaced.

He criticized what he said were calls for her resignation from the radical left trying to throw Dianne Feinstein out of the Senate is driven because they want to ram through the most extreme, radical nominees who cant even get a single Republican vote.

Photos: Sen. Dianne Feinstein through the years
In the early 1980s, when I was first learning about wine, I attended a Wine Spectator's Wine Experience event in San Francisco. I didn't quite know what to expect as this was the first event of its type I had ever attended and I was unsure how to navigate my way through all the seminars and Grand Tastings where countless (at least that's how it seemed to me) wineries from all over the world were pouring wines I had only read about.

While at the Grand Tasting on the first night, I happened by the Jordan Winery table where Andre Tchelistcheff (famed godfather of California wine and then consulting winemaker for Jordan) was standing. Feeling a bit intimidated, I introduced myself to Mr. Tchelistcheff and asked about his thoughts on the wine. His response was simple and expressed a feeling sometimes lost on others and especially by many considering themselves as "experts" in wine.

Mr. Tchelistcheff poured me a taste of the Cabernet and politely said, "My opinion is not important so please tell me what you think of the wine." His message was simple and opened my eyes to a very important aspect of tasting and enjoying wine. Make the experience your own and don't be overly influenced by others.

Of course, it's always a great benefit to have wine knowledgeable friends as well as industry professionals and educators guide us to great wines and the intricacies of the tasting experience. But the ultimate impression of the wine is yours to determine regardless of price or the often meaningless numerical scores a particular wine may have garnered.

A great lesson learned from one of the legendary masters in winemaking history. And one I've never forgotten or neglected to share with others.

When thinking back on some of the many great bottles Ive been fortunate to enjoy, its the experience that first comes to mind with the wine acting as a vehicle to form a lasting memory. The historic 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay we were treated to by friends Suzie and Paul Frank on one of the islands at Montelena on our first trip to Napa Valley in 1979. And of course, 1967 Chateau dYquem that marks our wedding anniversary that weve enjoyed on several occasions with friends and family to commemorate that day.

I was very lucky to sample the 1959 Chateau Lafite Rothschild in one of my early wine classes and felt so fortunate to have this experience which offered me a perspective on what the worlds finest wines were capable of delivering. On a sunny Sunday morning in the early 1990s we enjoyed a bottle of 1945 Chateau Haut-Brion at brunch with friends where the wine inspired a deeply personal conversation about what was going on in the world at that time and how those events affected our future lives.

The magnum of 1990 Champagne Salon we relished in 2002 at dinner the night before our daughters Napa wedding when meeting our new family. The 3.0Ls we poured at our sons wedding in summer 2012 were 1978 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, 1981 Chateau Mouton Rothschild, 1983 Joseph Phelps Insignia Auction Reserve (blended especially for the 1985 Napa Valley Wine Auction) and 1986 Livingston-Moffett Cabernet Sauvignon were a delight to all and left countless memories.

Each of these occasions (and many more) holds a special place in my memory and the wines we enjoyed served to mark the experience and make it more personal. Wine is a great communicator that enhances the most simple dinner or occasion in very subtle and personal ways.

Unfortunately, wine is often perceived by some as a libation to revere rather than just simply enjoy. However, the history of wine dates back centuries and millennia where it was always an integral part of mealtime enjoyment and experienced simply as a congenial addition to the time friends and family spent together around the dinner table and in celebration of important passages in their lives.

Wine professionals almost always try evaluating a wine as being true to the variety (or blend of varieties), place of origin and vintage characteristics when determining its overall quality and compatibility with similar wines and selected dishes for pairing. I must admit I do this regularly (and often sub-consciously) with most wines I'm tasting. But many times, when just looking for a wine to enjoy this critical analysis is unnecessary and may even get in the way by being a distraction.

Most wines today will pass the "taste test" when pretense is cast aside and you're just looking for something that pleases the palate and fits the moment. Thankfully, our choices in today's market are many and varied so there's no reason why we should not to explore beyond what others may consider the "correct" choice. The exploration is fun and leaves you free to discover what you like in creating your own memories.

Paraphrasing what Mr. Tchelistcheff said to me many years ago, "It's your opinion that counts and it's up to you to create your own experience."
A New Jersey woman informed that a travel mishap landed her nearly 900 miles (1,000km) from her final destination, in a different country without a passport, ABC7 News reported.

Beverly Ellis-Hebard is a self-described seasoned traveler. She jets back and forth from Philadelphia to her second home in Jacksonville, Florida, often.

Ellis-Hebard said she arrived at the Frontier Airlines gate for her flight on November 6, and the gate board read: PHL to JAX.

Recovering from back surgery and slower than usual, she asked an agent if she had enough time to run to the restroom.

"She said yes. You know, about 20 minutes," Ellis-Hebard recalled.

Ellis-Hebard said when she returned a short time later, she found the flight almost fully boarded and the jetway door about to close.

When she went to board her flight, the gate agent questioned the size of her personal travel bag, so she put it in the baggage sizer.

"I put it in and when I went to take it out my arm right here got all scraped up. I was bleeding," she said.

She said the gate agent then hurried her to board.

"She said, 'Come on, come on. Give me your boarding pass.' I would say I took about ten steps, and she said, 'Are you Beverly Ellis-Hebard?' I said, 'You just had my boarding pass. You just checked me in. Yes!' She said, 'All right, go! Go.'"

Once in flight, her reality set in.

The flight attendant tending to Ellis-Hebard's bloody wound said she'll be able to relax once they landed, in Jamaica!

The flight crew told Ellis-Hebard the flight to Jacksonville had a gate change, and she was now heading to the Caribbean.

Ultimately, Jamaican authorities allowed Ellis-Hebard to remain in the jetway, which she was told is considered U.S. soil.

The flight crew remained with her until the next flight to Philadelphia took off several hours later.

When the Investigative Team contacted Frontier Airlines, they would only say the issue was addressed with airport personnel.

They also offered Ellis-Hebard a $600 voucher and refunded her original ticket.
Zelenskyy meets German President Steinmeier

Turkey deploys over 600 thousand policemen

Charles Michel and Ilham Aliyev meeting starts in Brussels

3 earthquakes recorded off Kamchatka coast

Zelenskyy arrives in Germany to meet its leaders

Turkish presidential and parliamentary elections start today

Major road accident in Yerevan

Armenian PM holds informal meeting with Charles Michel

Cocaine found aboard Colombian "narco sub"

Ambassador-at-Large: Azerbaijani forces attack Armenia's sovereign territory

Borrell: World military spending hits record $2.2 trillion

Iran captures ISIS terrorist

Italian PM promises full support for Ukraine

"Fair Armenia" party to nominate Norik Norikyan as Yerevan mayor candidate

Poland detects air object flying from Belarus

Alen Simonyan leads delegation leaving for Minsk

Pakistan bans Facebook, YouTube and Twitter

Armenian FM briefs Derek Hogan on Azerbaijan's latest provocation

Borrell: EU should accelerate ammunition supply to Ukraine

Polish archaeologists uncover ancient bakery in Armenia

Ambassador Kvien: I heard heartbreaking stories from families of missing soldiers

Helicopter crashes in Russian Bryansk

Clashes erupt between neo-Nazis, anti-fascists and police in Melbourne

European Council publishes Pashinyan-Aliyev-Michel meeting schedule

Yerevan-Istanbul-Yerevan flight delayed due to technical malfunction

GOP members demand Biden take cognitive test

Fatal accident on Dalar-Aygestan road

Armenian PM Pashinyan leaves for Brussels

Belgium to open embassy in Armenia

G7 raises economic aid to Ukraine

Man pronounced dead by coroner revived at hospital

US Treasury Secretary to update Congress on default

US and Europe believe Ukraine's counteroffensive could boost talks

Borrell: It will be difficult to trust China

Blinken and Kuleba discuss Ukraine's counteroffensive preparations

80-year-old Armenian woman dies in attack on Rehovot in Israel

Ministry of Defense: There have been recorded no notable ceasefire violations over the night

20-year-old Narek Baghdasaryan was killed as a result of Azerbaijani attack

The Armenian side has one more wounded. Ministry of Defense

The intensity of fire in the direction of Verin Shorzha has decreased. Ministry of Defense

As a result of enemy fire Armenian side has 1 killed and 1 wounded. Ministry of Defence

The intensity of enemy fire has significantly subsided. Ministry of Defence

Azerbaijan continues to fire in Kut and Sotk areas

Azerbaijan also uses mortars in the direction of Sotk positions. Ministry of Defense

Turkish lira hits a new historic low

Azerbaijan violated ceasefire in the direction of Kut using mortars

ORC survey: Turkey presidential election will end in 1st round with Kilicdaroglu victory Sunday

Armenia restores diplomatic relations with Hungary

Azerbaijani shells were exploding 100 meters away from Sotk village, Armenia opposition MP says

Armenia MOD: Situation on frontline with Azerbaijan relatively stable as of 5:50pm

Armenia's tourism potential was presented in Dubai

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan army opened fire toward combat positions near Kut village

Dubai aviation authorities prohibit FlyOne Armenia flight from landing

Armenia ambassador to OSCE: Azerbaijan use of force is aimed at undermining international efforts to establish stability

Mher Grigoryan briefs Christine Weigand on Lachin corridor blockades severe consequences for Karabakh children

Armenia MOD: Injuries of 2 Armenia soldiers wounded today are not life-threatening

NO to the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh initiative members hand signatures to embassies in Armenia, to government

Tasmania state parliament in Australia recognizes Armenian Genocide

Armenia human rights advocate: Instead of 33, we have additional 80 captives in Azerbaijan

Siranush Sahakyan: Arbitrary killings of Armenians increased in Azerbaijan

Armenias Marukyan to Patel: It was not exchange of fire at Sotk but another unprovoked attack by Azerbaijan army

Siranush Sahakyan: About 6,000 Azerbaijan special forces stationed on Armenia-Karabakh border

Human rights activist: In most cases Azerbaijan clearly knows fallen Armenian servicemens locations

Armenia deputy FM: Azerbaijan always resorts to provocation before or after negotiations

Armenia, Azerbaijan FMs meeting in Moscow slated for May 19

Armenia defense minister visits soldiers wounded in Azerbaijan provocation in Sotk direction (PHOTOS)

Siranush Sahakyan: Armenian detainees in Baku are brutally beaten, medical assistance footage is staged

Arman Tatoyan: Azerbaijanis are building wide concrete roads, bunkers, infrastructure in Armenia

Armenia social affairs, UAE tolerance and coexistence ministries sign memorandum of understanding

Armenia ex-ombudsman: Azerbaijan soldiers are placing landmines in Syunik Province villages

Tatoyan: Azerbaijan changes place names on Google maps, creating stereotype that Armenia is their territory

Armenia, Iran businesses reach certain agreements (PHOTOS)

Financial Times: EU wants to lay internet cable under Black Sea to reduce dependence on Russia

World oil prices falling

Karabakh army: No fire shot at Azerbaijani positions

Patel on Zakharova's words: I dont spend a lot of time thinking about what my Russian counterpart says

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan army used UAVs in direction of Sotk

Patel: US State Department calls on Armenia, Azerbaijan to distance their forces from border

Brussels counters Baku: There is agreement that Armenia, Azerbaijan leaders will also meet in Moldova

Newspaper: Parents of detainees in Azerbaijan leave dissatisfied with Armenia PM

Armenia MOD: No notable ceasefire violations recorded overnight

EU does not include nuclear energy in 11th package of Russia sanctions

No notable ceasefire violations between 8:10 p.m. and 10 p.m. were recorded. Ministry of Defense

Earthquake in Armenia: the intensity in epicentral zone was 5 points

Azerbaijani Armed Forces violated the ceasefire in the direction of Verin Shorzha with mortars

Delegation headed by Secretary of Security Council will leave for Brussels

"Shots are still being heard." Members of the National Assembly from the opposition are in Kut

Two wounded Armenian servicemen transported to Yerevan

9 medical patients in severe condition transferred from Karabakh to Armenia

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan used artillery toward Norabak village

FlyOne Armenia aircraft denied landing in Dubai

Armenia ombudsperson: Azerbaijan use of mortars undermines civilian populations right to life

Armenia MOD: Azerbaijan used mortar in Sotk direction at around 5:10pm

Karabakh FM briefs Australia Armenians on situation in Artsakh

NO to the ethnic cleansing of Artsakh signature campaign hardcopies to be submitted to US, France, Russia embassies

Ex-ambassador on latest Azerbaijan provocation: Armenia authorities fail to fulfill their obligations

Azerbaijan interrupted natural gas supply from Armenia to Karabakh for 85 days, electricity supply cut for 121 days

Armenia MOD: No significant ceasefire violations recorded from 3pm to 4pm

Kremlin: Russia acts as mediator in Karabakh issue

Armenia MOD: No significant ceasefire violations recorded between 2pm and 3pm
At 6:13am on Monday, the Kotayk provincial crisis management center received a call that a car had fallen into a ravine on the Hrazdan-Charentsavan motorway, there are injured, and one of whom was trapped in the vehicle, the Rescue Service of Armenian informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

It was found that the aforesaid car had gone off road on the Yerevan-Sevan section of the M4 motorway, hit a roadside barrier, then a tree, and had fallen about 6 meters into a ravine.

The driver (born in 1970) and one passenger (born in 2010) were hospitalized at Charentsavan Medical Center before the rescuers arrived at the scene.

The rescuers took the other passenger (born in 1964) out of this car, carried this person to a waiting ambulance, and this victim was also hospitalized at Charentsavan Medical Center.
The leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia will resume peace talks in Brussels this weekend, according to officials, as western allies are stepping up mediation efforts, the Financial Times reported.

European Council president Charles Michel will host a meeting on May 14 between Azerbaijans president Ilham Aliyev and Armenias prime minister Nikol Pashinyan, three officials with knowledge of the preparations told the Financial Times.

It will be the first time the two leaders have met in person since talks in Munich in February and comes after the two countries foreign ministers held extensive discussions in Washington last week. US secretary of state Antony Blinken said those talks made tangible progress on a durable peace agreement and that he believed an agreement [is] within sight, within reach, the Financial Times added.
Armenia recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in the same way as Azerbaijan recognizes the territorial integrity of Armenia. Armen Khachatryan, an MP from the ruling majority Civil Contract (CC) Faction of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, told this to reporter at Yerablur Military Pantheon in Yerevan Monday.

"Even though Azerbaijan has accepted it, it is not visible in active, practical steps from Azerbaijan's actions. The issue of Nagorno-Karabakh is a completely different issue, it is in a completely different format. The issue of safety, living guarantees of the Nagorno-Karabakh population is another issue. This should and is being discussed on international platforms. Everything should be done so that Nagorno-Karabakh is safe and there are no problems related to the safety of the population there.

"All these matters are the matters of long years of discussions in the negotiations. It is related to Armenia's resistance, to a number of geopolitical changes. But in any case, everything has been done and will be done to ensure the level of security of the Nagorno-Karabakh population, which is not the case today. You all know that they are under siege, Azerbaijan is trying in every way to provoke, it is implementing programs of [Armenian] ethnic cleansing," said Khachatryan.
At the joint initiative of the Center for Law and Justice "Tatoyan" Foundation and the Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention, the Lemkin Institute carried out a special fact-finding visit to Syunik Province of Armenia. Arman Tatoyan, director of the Tatoyan Foundation and the former ombudsman of Armenia, informed about this on Facebook.

The goal of the mission was to monitor the situation on the ground, namely the blockade of the road of life connecting Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) to Armenia by Azerbaijan.

The group observed the recently installed Azerbaijani checkpoint.

The visit proved that this checkpoint is a mean by which Azerbaijan isolates Artsakh from the outside world and creates humanitarian crisis in Artsakh.

The two institutions will come up with detailed report based on the results of the mission, Tatoyan added.
I was not a member of any party, my mission is the protection of the motherland, I am the man that my child died on the battlefield, I did not come to the funeral. Melikset Poghosyan, former governor of Armenias Syunik Province, told this to reporters at Yerablur Military Pantheon in Yerevan Monday.

Asked what business he has standing with the incumbent Armenian authorities, he answered: "I stand with my state, my people, my border. Why are you dividing the people? I'm not on anyone's side. (). Three hundred kilometers from Narnadzor to Khoznavar [villages], a new border, new engineering work was done by me. The Lake Sev is the task of the [Armenian] army, I was resolving the issue of the southern part."

To the remark that the Azerbaijanis advanced in the area of Tegh village and when asked how many meters they went back in that area, Poghosyan responded: "They came, drove into the 5km section. Where the Russian peacekeeping troops were stationed, they came out, they [i.e., the Azerbaijanis] drove into that section. There are [military] outposts there that they went 5 meters forward or back."

He emphasized that the Armenian border guard troops should have guarded that area, but there are clashes in that area every day.

"Our side and their side are not able to carry out engineering work, there are shots," said the former governor of Syunik.

As for the Armenian militia, he noted: "The militia maintains 26 combat positions from Tegh to Khoznavar [villages]. We have intensified the defense of the armed forces so that the armed forces can fulfill their tasks as of today. The [Armenian] nation must become an army. Our numbers are few, theirsmany. It happened in the 1990s as well, but we managed to solve our problems together. A pillow isn't about sleeping alone, it's about thinking."
A total of 451,850 tourists visited Armenia in the first quarter of this year, which is 81.2 percent more than in the same period last year, as per the statistics committee of the country.

Accordingly, in the months of January-March, Russian citizens visited Armenia the most: 237,040.

In second place are the Armenian nationals who visited Armenia from some other countries: 74,186.

The number of Georgian citizens who visited Armenia is also considerable: 53, 707.

And 25,458 Iranian nationals visited Armenia.

Also in the first three months of this year, 2,712 Turkish citizens Armenia, which is 2.2 times more than the figure recorded in the same period last year.
The Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) of Armenia conducted and completed the tenders for the purpose of granting permits for the use of the 700 MHz and 800 MHz radio frequency segments in the country.

As a result of these tenders, Telecom Armenia OJSC was recognized as the winner of the 2 x 20 MHz segment of the 700 MHz radio frequency band, and MTS Armenia CJSCthe winner of the 2x10 MHz segment of the 800 MHz radio frequency band, PSRC informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

As a result of the fulfillment of the obligations defined by the issued licenses, a 5G mobile broadband technology network will be launched within two years in Armenias major citiesYerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzorwith the introduction of the Internet of Things (IoT) technology.

The quality of access to mobile broadband coverage in closedindoorareas will be improved, the level of reliability and security of communication network will be increased, and the security systems will be updated.

In order to strengthen the defense capabilities of Armenia, the existing communication infrastructure will be developedexpanded, as well as education programs for specialties in telecommunications in Armenias state higher education institution will have education laboratory with the possibility of providing mobile communication services of electronic communication, and this laboratory will contribute to the training of qualified personnel specialized in the education programs of the aforementioned professions that are necessary for the sector.

The provision of the aforementioned radio frequencies on a competitive basis provided one-time 2.250 billion dramsin terms of provision, and 1.176 billion dramsin terms of useannually of the state budget, bringing the state budget's income in terms of mandatory fees for the use of radio frequencies from around 8 billion drams to more than 9.5 billion drams.
Azerbaijan calls on the Armenian side to show good will and make greater efforts within the framework of settlement negotiations in all dimensions. Azerbaijani foreign minister Jeyhun Bayramov said this during a press briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis Monday in Vilnius, Day.Az reports.

"I presented detailed information about the post-conflict situation in our region, Azerbaijan's efforts to advance the regional peace agenda, including the last phase of negotiations on the draft peace agreement with Armenia in the United States," said the Azerbaijani FM.

He argued that despite the partial dynamics in all three aspects of the settlementthat is, in the preparation of the draft peace agreement which will determine the basis of bilateral relations, the progress achieved in the delimitation of the state border and the restoration of transport and communication links has not met expectations yet.
The Turkish foreign minister spoke again about Turkey's concerns regarding the Operation Nemesis monument that was unveiled in Armenias capital Yerevan.

During a program of a Turkish TV station, Mevlut Cavusoglu stated that it is unacceptable for them the installing of a monument making a hero out of the persons who killed the officers of the Ottoman army and the Azerbaijani brothers.

He emphasized that they informed the Armenian authorities about this either through the envoy or through other channels.

"We are discussing the steps to be taken against Armenia with the President of Turkey," added the Turkish FM.

A fountain-memorial dedicated to Operation Nemesis members, who coordinated the assassination of the Turkish ringleaders who carried out the Armenian Genocide, was unveiled on April 25 in downtown Yerevan.

Subsequently, Turkey closed its airspace for Armenian aircraft, including the aircraft serving the Armenian prime minister.
To a large extent, the negotiations in Washington showed that there was no result at all. Tigran Abrahamyan, secretary of the opposition "With Honor" Faction of the National Assembly of Armenia and a security expert, told this to reporters Monday, referring to the Armenian and Azerbaijani FMs talks last week in the US.

"No matter how much the American side tried to create a positive backdrop around those negotiations and their result, in fact, the comments from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Armenia in the period that followed show that not only was there no real result, but the parties were speaking with some caution about new possible, unpredictable events.

"Actually, today we have a situation where Azerbaijan has imposed a rather maximalist agenda on Armenia, which assumes to include not only the handing over of Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)] to Azerbaijan. A few days ago, [Armenian PM] Nikol Pashinyan was speaking about the fact that Azerbaijan does not accept even the autonomy proposed by the Armenian side. Other demands of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Armenia refer to legitimization of the territories occupied by Azerbaijan, new territories, which are not limited exclusively to those eight villages," said the opposition lawmaker.

Abrahamyan added that the topic of the Zangezur corridor has been actively discussed in recent days.

"Azerbaijan does not even try to hide that it will achieve this at any cost, including through the use of force. The increase in these demands of Azerbaijan shows the failures of Armenias foreign policy. If before that they were trying to convince the people that we are solving the security issue of Armenia by handing over Artsakh, life, time, and history showed that Artsakh is just a gateway [for Azerbaijan] toward Armenia, and Azerbaijan will not try to limit itself to Artsakh. New hard events are expected in the near future. The Armenian authorities are not capable, they dont not have the appropriate will not only to face external security challenges, but with its steps, it is creating a favorable field for Azerbaijan's new aggression," Abrahamyan said.
Agshin Babirov, one of the two Azerbaijanis who crossed the border of Armenia, has been sentenced to 11 years, 6 months and 15 days in prison, the Prosecutor Generals Office confirmed to Armenian News-NEWS.am.

This Azerbaijani soldier was found guilty of illegally crossing the Armenian state border, as well as illegally transporting firearms and ammunition across the border.

Babirov has accepted the charges against him.

The criminal investigation in the case of Huseyin Akhundov, the other Azerbaijani who had crossed into the Armenian border with Babirov, continues. In addition to the aforesaid charges, Akhundov is accused also of killing the security guard of Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine.

On April 10, it became known that two Azerbaijanis were seen in Bnunis village of Sisian city of Armenias Syunik Province the day before. On April 17, the prosecutor's office reported that two Azerbaijani servicemen who had ended up in the territory of Armenia were charged and both were arrested. Moreover, one of them is accused of killing a man guarding the guard post of the Zangezur Copper-Molybdenum Combine.
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Vajpayee went to the US on an invitation from the American government to be an observer during the presidential election campaign between John F Kennedy and Richard Nixon and was also part of a delegation chosen by the then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the UN General Assembly session.





Abhishek Choudhary, in the first of his two-volume memoir "Vajpayee: The Ascent of the Hindu Right", says that on the morning of September 25, 1960, Vajpayee boarded a plane for Washington DC, his first foreign trip.





"The invitation from the American government was for him to be present as an observer during the ongoing presidential election campaign. As reported in the 'Organiser', he was also invited for his 'special interest in the welfare of the Railway labour'. The mouthpiece did not mention another, perhaps the more important, reason for Vajpayee's visit: Nehru had included him in the list of delegates for the UN General Assembly session," he writes.





According to the author, for most of his stay in New York, Vajpayee was in the company of IFS officer Maharajakrishna Rasgotra. "When not at the UN headquarters, Vajpayee divided his time writing (dutifully dispatching all his experiences for the RSS mouthpieces) and exploring the city with Rasgotra.





An expert on decolonization, Rasgotra deepened the Vajpayee's understanding of the UN. In return, the MP shared nuggets from his parliament life," the book, published by Picador India, says.





"They were both eligible bachelors in their early thirties, and also had some light camaraderie. Rasgotra took him to museums and art galleries, but these did not evoke any great interest in the young Jan Sanghi. A few times Rasgotra also took him to nightclubs. It was not clear to Vajpayee what a nightclub was exactly. "Rasgotra assured him that it was not a strip club: 'Nagn nritya nahin hota hai. You would get to see what shape modern music is taking - there is jazz, instrumental, local music.'





Vajpayee got excited: 'Chaliye, yeh bhi ek nayi duniya hai.' On such informal outings he drank a peg or two," Choudhary writes.





The author says despite looming large on the political scene, Vajpayee remains the most enigmatic Indian politician of recent times.





"Early in my research, I found a key to his enigma: beyond the traditional cliches and the occasional snippets, we know little of value about the first half of his six-decade-long career. Upon understanding his early life, his dilemmas and doublespeak begin to fall into a pattern. This book, first of a two-volume study, attempts to fill that void," he writes in the preface.





Choudhary says his first task here was to establish that the early Vajpayee was "far more critical to the Sangh Parivar's project of Hinduizing India than is universally believed".

In his first trip to the US in 1960, Atal Bihari Vajpayee befriended a young IFS officer posted in the permanent mission of India to the UN and explored New York with him, visiting museums, art galleries and even nightclubs, says a new biography of the former prime minister.
India is ready to lead technology-driven diabetes care, said Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology Jitendra Singh. Addressing the three-day World Congress of 'Diabetes Technology and Therapeutics 2023' (DTechCon 2023) here, as chief guest, Singh, who is also a renowned diabetologist and professor, said that India is being looked up to by the rest of the world in the field of healthcare after the successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Technologically and in human resources, India is much ahead of most other countries, he said. The Union Minister said that India is fast becoming more and more tech-savvy, particularly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took over because he is personally promoting science and technology innovations. The PM has a natural temper for science and has worked closely with him for the past nine years, the Minister said. This, he said, is evident from the fact that there were just around 350 StartUps before 2014, but after Prime Minister Modi gave the clarion call from the ramparts of the Red Fort in his Independence Day address and rolled out a special StartUp scheme in 2016, there has been a quantum jump in StartUps to more than 90,000 with more than 100 Unicorns. The Minister said that in the field of Telemedicine, India has some of the best StartUps in the world. The Minister said that India is not only becoming a technology leader but also a huge medical tourism hub. (ANI)
New Delhi [India], May 8 (ANI/NewsReach): International Institute of Business Management and Research Technology IIBMRT, an independent research institute, is proud to announce the launch of its new range of online courses. The institute has introduced online versions of its most popular courses, including Online PH.D, Honorary Doctorate, Chartered Fellowship, DBM, EX.MBA, FTEL MBA, PGDM, PGDCA, BBA, BCA, BA, B.COM, B.SC IT, BSW, MSW, Master in Corporate Law, Diploma in Fashion Design, Interior Design, Architecture, Journalism, Data Science, Cloud Computing, Digital Marketing, and short Terms Skill Certification. The new online courses are designed to provide students with the flexibility and convenience they need to continue their education from anywhere in the world. These courses will be delivered through modern technologies, making them just as engaging and interactive as in-person courses. With the use of virtual classrooms, online discussions, and group projects, students will have the opportunity to learn collaboratively with their peers and faculty members. "We are excited to introduce our new range of online courses to students all over the world," said the Director of Academic Affairs. "At IIBMRT, we strive to provide our students with a unique and intellectually stimulating educational experience, and we are committed to ensuring that our students have access to high-quality education regardless of their location." The online courses at IIBMRT are structured to meet the needs and interests of a diverse student body. The institute's faculty members are experts in their respective fields, and they are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen career paths. In addition to academic coursework, IIBMRT provides online students with various support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. The institute is committed to providing students with the resources and support they need to achieve their academic and career goals. "We believe that online learning can be just as effective as in-person learning, and we are confident that our students will find our new online courses to be engaging, challenging, and rewarding," said the Director of Academic Affairs. "We encourage students to take advantage of all the resources and opportunities that IIBMRT has to offer, both online and in-person." To learn more about IIBMRT's new range of online courses, visit the institute's website http://iibmrt.com/ or contact the admissions office. This story has been provided by NewsReach. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsReach)
Indian real estate developers' post-Covid focus on land acquisition shows no signs of slowing down, with prime land parcels being targeted across India for various types of developments. Real estate consultancy firm Anarock's data indicated that in fiscal year 2022-23, approximately 87 separate land deals were sealed cumulatively accounting for over 1,862 acres. In contrast, the previous 2021-22 saw 44 land deals accounting for approximately 1,649 acres closed across various cities. Of all deals closed in just concluded financial year 2022-23, at least 76 accounting for approximately 1,059 acres were in the top seven cities, and the remaining 11 deals accounting for 803 acres took place in Tier 2 and 3 cities including Ahmedabad, Kurukshetra, Lucknow, Nagpur, Panchkula, Panipat, Raigad, and Surat, Anarock said. Among the top seven cities, the Mumbai region saw the most with 25 land deals accounting for over 267 acres, followed by Delhi NCR with 23 land deals of 274 acres. In terms of total land area transacted in the top 7 cities, Chennai topped out with 292 acres changing hands in nine separate deals. The top developers who bought land parcels for various developments in 2022-23 include Godrej Properties, Birla Estates, Gaurs Group, Sobha Ltd., Oberoi Realty, Ajmera Realty, Mahindra LifeSpaces, M3M Group, and Gera Developers. "With land becoming scarcer amid the unfettered real estate development boom, leading players are pulling out all the stops to secure the best land parcels in key locations," says Anuj Puri, Chairman - ANAROCK Group. "With residential sales in the top 7 cities scaling an all-time high in the last financial year (approx. 3.8 lakh units), large and listed developers have been cashing in on the unrelenting housing boom. With land being the key input commodity for real estate development, these players have been making strategic land investments across prominent micro-markets and quite a few smaller deals took place in the last financial year." (ANI)
Institute of Risk Management India (IRM) India Affiliate has entered into a knowledge partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Reliance Jio Infocomm to build resilience and promote the need for and importance of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) in the telecom industry. IRM is the world's leading professional body for ERM qualifications across more than 140 countries and Reliance Jio is an Indian telecommunications company and a subsidiary of Jio Platforms that operates a national LTE network with coverage across all 22 telecom circles, a release said. Reliance Jio has been holding the lion's share of the market with a portfolio of products and services, it said. As a part of this knowledge partnership, both IRM India Affiliate and Reliance Jio will be organising webinars, roundtables, industry meetings, and contributing thought leadership articles towards knowledge building and enhancing ERM and risk intelligence for the sector. Sachin Mutha, Head of Risk Management, Reliance Jio, said they are excited to partner with the world's leading professional body for ERM exams and education. "Our risk management process and practices are on par with international standards and together with IRM, we are excited to drive global thought leadership." Rajneesh Jain, Chief Financial Officer, Reliance Jio, said the company has developed a robust risk culture that fosters risk-based decision-making across all functions in the organisation. "Our association with IRM is timely and we hope to set a global benchmark and drive best practices in enterprise risk management." The collaboration is part of IRM India Affiliate's mission of developing a robust ecosystem of risk-intelligent organisations across sectors with an aim to build a resilient and self-reliant India, the Reliance Jio release said. Enterprise risk management (ERM) is a firm-wide strategy to identify and prepare for hazards with a company's finances, operations, and objectives. IRM has recently entered into knowledge partnership with leading organisations including Cipla, UltraTech, IHCL, NIMSME (a ministry of MSME oganisation), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). IRM India Affiliate has also recently welcomed representatives from international bodies like the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) as external board advisors. Hersh Shah, Chief Executive Officer, IRM India Affiliate, said: "This knowledge partnership is a milestone for telecoms as it will help drive the importance of a robust risk culture in the sector, through sharing of best enterprise risk practices across platforms. Our global philosophy is well aligned with Jio's long-term strategy towards excellence in ERM." The landscape of risks in the telecoms industry has expanded significantly and made risk management increasingly challenging and resource intensive for telecoms, a recent study by KPMG said. The key risk areas identified were either related to investment, employees, supply chain, regulatory, and cyber risk. The Covid pandemic has demonstrated the importance of having a robust, scalable, and secure telecommunications network for the economic well-being of nations and its citizens. (ANI)
Established in 1986, a listed company is one of the leading pharmaceutical (APIs) companies and is a significant player in the speciality chemicals space.

Paracetamol is commonly used in medication prescribed for pain relief and to treat fever.

"The certification issued by the EDQM verifies the compliance of pharmaceutical substances and with this backing, IOL will now be able to export paracetamol to the European continent," the pharma firm informed stock exchanges on Monday.

The company started commercial production of paracetamol in 2022 in its Punjab-based facility.

At present, it has a total capacity of 3,600 tonnes to produce paracetamol.

Its overseas customers are spread out across several countries including the UK, Belgium, Hungry, Spain, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, Ireland, the US, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Indonesia, South Korea, Thailand, Bangladesh, Turkey, U.A.E., China, Hong Kong, Egypt. (ANI)
Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], May 8 (ANI/PRNewswire): India's economy is growing rapidly and significantly, with a focus on self-sufficiency and investment in manufacturing and service industries. The country is a global hub for material and service sourcing, with a growing number of startups contributing to its success. Data-driven decision-making has played a key role in driving these advancements through digitization, process automation, and data analysis. Despite the recession, the data and analytics sector has remained strong. To further boost the economy, the government is implementing new policies, and creating more job opportunities in economics, finance, and public policy. With a projected GDP of USD 7.5 trillion by 2031, India requires a highly skilled workforce to withstand upcoming challenges and to emerge as a strong force in core domains. IIT Kanpur's eMasters degree programs in Economics, Finance and Public Policy; Economics, Finance and Data Analysis; and Economics and Finance for Businesses, are designed to help professionals build relevant expertise and stay agile in a fast-paced environment. Through these programs, professionals will gain knowledge in developing futuristic public policies, strategic decision-making skills, and gaining business intelligence and decision-making perspectives. The programs are carefully designed by the Department of Economic Sciences in order to provide an in-depth understanding of the domains. The flexibility of completing the eMasters degree programs within 1-3 years, makes it a unique and preferred choice for working professionals. Moreover, selection into these programs does not require GATE score. World-class faculty and experts from the forefront of cutting-edge research at IIT Kanpur teach the 60-credit, 12-module industry-focused curriculum. The courses also come with a credits transfer facility where a waiver of up to 60 credits can be transferred for higher education (MTech/PhD) at IIT Kanpur. The weekend-only live interactive classes coupled with self-paced learning are a bonus. The programs' immersive learning format gives professionals access to IIT Kanpur placement cell, incubation cell, and alumni network, leading to successful career advancement and networking experience. Participants also get to visit the IIT Kanpur campus to interact with their fellow peers and the esteemed faculty. Professionals signing up for these programs will stay ahead of the curve than the rest, while gaining an extra edge for a fruitful career. Applications for the July 2023 batches are open till May 12, 2023. To know more about the programs and apply: 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 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. This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
In view of the sudden cancellation of flights and initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process under IBC by Go Airlines (India) Limited (Go First), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a show cause notice to Go First under the relevant provisions of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, for their failure to continue the operation of the service in a safe, efficient and reliable manner. The airline operator has been asked to submit their reply within 15 days of the receipt of this notice, and further decision on the continuation of their Air Operators Certificate (AOC) will be taken on the basis of the reply submitted by them. Further, Go First has been directed to stop booking and the sale of tickets directly or indirectly, with immediate effect and until further orders, the DGCA said. Go First cancelled all flights until May 12 due to operational reasons, the airline said on Friday. "We regret to inform you that due to operational reasons, Go First flights scheduled till May 12, 2023 have been cancelled. We apologise for the inconvenience caused by the flight cancellations. A full refund will be issued to the original mode of payment shortly. We acknowledge the flight cancellations might have disrupted your travel plans and we are committed to providing all the assistance we can," said the Go First statement. Earlier, the civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), examined the response of Go First and issued an order to the carrier to process their refunds to passengers. In a statement, DGCA said that Go First has intimated that they have suspended the sale of their flights till May 15, 2023, and are working to refund or reschedule for future dates, the passengers already booked to fly with them. The beleaguered Wadia Group-led airlines, Go First, on Thursday pleaded to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) here for an interim moratorium after facing an acute cash crunch. The airline has also sought direction to appoint an insolvency resolution process (IRP) for the betterment of Go First. The NCLT, after the hearing, reserved its order on Go Airlines' plea. (ANI)
New Delhi [India], May 8 (ANI/Mediawire): Dr Vinay Tantuway described the specialties and benefits of Saw-based robotic systems and Attune Knee Implant Total knee replacement surgery is a complex orthopedic procedure that involves replacing the damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial implant. Care CHL Hospitals, Indore in association with Dr Vinay Tantuway is making the process simplified with the help of Velys robotics and Attune Knee Implant. The Attune Knee Implant, with its advanced features offering superior stability, mobility, and durability, is widely used for this purpose and its implantation with the help of robotics makes it more precise and durable to give optimum results to our patients. In recent years, the use of saw-based robotic systems in conjunction with the Attune Knee Implant has gained popularity in India due to its numerous benefits. Dr Vinay Tantuway cited that the Saw-Based Velys Robotic System is a highly advanced and cutting-edge technology that has revolutionized the way total knee replacement surgeries are performed. It enhances the accuracy and precision of the surgical procedure, minimizing the risk of human errors and improving patient outcomes. The Velys Robotic System utilizes advanced software that creates a three-dimensional virtual model of the patient's knee joint to create a customized surgical plan for each patient according to their anatomy and needs. Opting for the Velys Robotic System in total knee replacement surgery, the patients of Care CHL Hospitals, Indore will have several advantages. Firstly, it provides real-time feedback to the surgeon during the procedure, continuously monitoring the movement of the surgical instruments and adjusting the cutting tools accordingly. This ensures that the implant is placed accurately and precisely, leading to improved long-term outcomes. Secondly, the Velys Robotic System enables the surgeon to preserve more healthy bone and tissue during the procedure. This is because the system allows for more precise and accurate removal of the damaged or diseased tissue, which minimizes the need of removing the healthy tissues. This results in less pain, swelling, and stiffness after the surgery and a faster recovery time for the patient. Moreover, the Velys Robotic System can improve the longevity of the Attune Knee Implant. By placing the implant with greater precision and accuracy, the system ensures that the implant is stable and secure within the patient's knee joint. This reduces the risk of implant failure or loosening over time, which is a common problem with traditional knee replacement surgeries. Lastly, the Velys Robotic System can lead to a shorter hospital stay for the patient. Since the surgery is less invasive and more precise, patients experience less pain and swelling, and minor discomfort after the procedure. This allows them to begin their rehabilitation and recovery process sooner, resulting in a shorter hospital stay overall. The Velys Robotic System in conjunction with the Attune Knee Implant offers numerous benefits for Indian patients undergoing total knee replacement surgery. The system's advanced technology and precision can improve the accuracy and longevity of the implant, while also reducing the amount of healthy tissue that needs to be removed during the procedure. Additionally, the system's real-time feedback and monitoring capabilities can minimize the risk of human error and improve patient outcomes. Dr Vinay is hopeful that there will be a substantial increase in the number of Indian orthopedic surgeons adopting this innovative technology in the coming years. carehospitals.com This story has been provided by Mediawire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Mediawire)
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 8 (ANI/BusinessWire India): Skoda Auto India announced it will continue keeping its foot on the accelerator when it comes to safety of its customers. Globally, Skoda Auto has a 50-year-old legacy with crash tests and safety. A Skoda 100 L is the first documented crash test in Prague-Ruzyne in former Czechoslovakia in 1972. Currently, the company has a world-class, state-of-the-art Polygon test centre in Uhelnice, which has been awarded Crash Laboratory of the year 2020 by the Automotive Testing Technology International trade journal. And every global Skoda since 2008 has been rated 5-star by Euro NCAP. On Skoda's international record with safety, Johannes Neft, Skoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development said, "At Skoda, we use all our expertise in technical development to consistently improve the active and passive safety of our vehicles. Even our entry-level models offer numerous assistance systems that are usually only available in vehicles from higher vehicle classes. At the same time, our state-of-the-art crash laboratory Polygon Uhelnice provides the ideal setting to thoroughly test the safety of our models. This allows us to incorporate our findings into vehicle development at a very early stage. Achieving the highest score of 5-stars in the NCAP reference test and the Global NCAP test for crash safety for all Skoda model series tested since 2008 is an outstanding success." Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) represents the passenger vehicle brands of the Volkswagen Group in India - Skoda Auto, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Lamborghini. The Group offers customers in India the most desirable and widest range of designs, body styles and powertrains. And above all, safety. Christian Cahn von Seelen, Executive Director, Sales, Marketing and Digital, Skoda Auto Volkswagen India said, "We are proud to have raised the bar in terms of safety standards with each new vehicle we introduce. The common thread that binds all our products is the exceptional packaging in terms of dynamic drive, features that matter, comfortable ride and most importantly, unparalleled safety. In Skoda Auto's 2-decade legacy in India, the MQB-A0-IN platform is the first ever that was specifically developed for the country. The brand's INDIA 2.0 cars - Slavia and Kushaq - developed on this platform, had a high focus on localisation, lower costs of ownership and maintenance, while maintaining Skoda's dynamic driving traits and zero compromise on safety. We are confident that we will continue to win the admiration of Indian car buyers, especially those who are conscious about the well-being of their family and the friends they drive with. And while we ensure that our cars have the technology and features that make them the safest in India, all the systems work the best way in harmony with the seat belt worn." Skoda Auto India's announcement comes on the back of the Slavia sedan earning the tag of the highest rated car for safety in the Global NCAP crash tests among cars made in India. In the last quarter of 2022, the Kushaq SUV achieved the feat of earning top scores in the Global NCAP tests conducted then. What makes the achievement remarkable is that both these cars were tested under Global NCAP's newer, stricter crash-test protocols. Moreover, among made-in-India cars, these two are the only ones to earn a full 5-stars for both adults and child occupants. With the Kodiaq 4x4 that has earned a 5-stars for adult and child safety in the Euro NCAP, Skoda Auto India now boasts of a fully-tested, 5-star safe fleet of family cars for both adults and children. This furthers the cause of Safer Cars for India and is the key focus area for the company in its strategy in the country going forward. The company also hosted a Safer With Skoda Track Day at the NATRAX facility in Indore, Asia's largest vehicle testing centre. The event showcased the safety features of Skoda cars and included emergency braking manoeuvres and off-road abilities of the 4x4 range. Commenting on the focus on safety, Petr Solc, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India said, "The skeletal structure of our cars is laser-welded, comprising of high strength steel, and has been built to mitigate and absorb the impact of the crash. Which is why every Skoda, whether made for India, or made for the world is fully 5-star safe for adults and children. We believe that Safety is Invisible, till tested. While seatbelts and safety technology like airbags and ESC are all key components of a safe car, safety begins at the core, which is the body structure it is built on. That core is what makes a Skoda safe. Safety is at the core of our strategy and we will continue to build cars with this philosophy. Because nothing is more important than the safety of our customers and our families. And at Skoda, our customers are part of the Skoda family. This reflects Skoda's values of Safety, Family, Human Touch, around which we will continue to grow our brand in the Indian market." The Slavia and Kushaq are both equipped with up to 6 airbags, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, tyre-pressure monitoring, multi-collision braking, anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, ISOFIX mounts for child seats, Top Tether anchor points among others. While these are a mix of active and passive safety features, Skoda Auto India will lay further emphasis on the platform and skeletal structure of its cars. The company will hold this safety as its driving force in its future in the Indian market. Maintaining its current lead in safety and further honing advancements in body structure engineering and active and passive safety technologies is going to be the prime goal for Skoda Auto India. SKODA AUTO > is successfully steering through the new decade with the Next Level - Skoda Strategy 2030.> aims to be one of the five best-selling brands in Europe by 2030 with an attractive line-up in the entry-level segments and additional e-models.> is emerging as the leading European brand in important growth markets such as India and North Africa.> currently offers customers twelve passenger-car series: the Fabia, Rapid, Scala, Octavia, Superb Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Enyaq iV, Enyaq Coupe iV, Slavia and Kushaq.> delivered over 731,000 vehicles to customers around the world in 2022.> has been a member of the Volkswagen Group for 30 years. The Volkswagen Group is one of the most successful vehicle manufacturers in the world.> independently manufactures and develops not only vehicles but also components such as engines and transmissions in association with the Group.> operates at three sites in the Czech Republic; has additional production capacity in China, Slovakia and India primarily through Group partnerships, as well as in Ukraine with a local partner.> employs 45,000 people globally and is active in over 100 markets. SKODA AUTO INDIA > fascinating customers in India since 2001.> models offered in India - Slavia, Kushaq and Kodiaq> present in more than 140 cities across the country with over 240 customer touchpoints> recorded a triple digit growth of 125% with 53,721 units sold in 2022 SKODA AUTO India website - www.skoda-auto.co.inSKODA AUTO India Communications Twitter Handle - @SKODAIndia_PR This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India)
India's exports to the UAE also recorded a remarkable growth of 12 per cent, reaching $31.3 billion in 2022-2023.

This was stated by Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Rajesh Kumar Singh, who along with UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeoudi on Monday jointly inaugurated the events to commemorate the first anniversary of the implementation of CEPA, in Abu Dhabi.

Singh highlighted how the path-breaking India-UAE CEPA, which was negotiated in just 88 days, has become a significant turning point in the bilateral economic relations between the two countries.

For India, the CEPA with the UAE is the first in the region and for the UAE, it is their first-ever CEPA.

As part of the CEPA celebrations, the DPIIT Secretary also inaugurated the Kerala Pavilion at the annual investment meeting in Abu Dhabi.

He also held meetings with the senior leadership of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Mubadala, the top UAE investors in India.

Welcoming the surge in investments from the UAE to India, Singh invited both companies to explore new sectors for investing in India, especially the renewable and digital sectors.

The UAE is currently the seventh largest investor in India with an estimated investment of $18 billion.

--IANS ans/vd

( 252 Words)

2023-05-08-20:04:05 (IANS)
ITC Hotels continue to expand and strengthen its presence across India with the signing of three more properties under brand Storii in Goa, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. on Brand Storii's expansion in India, Anil Chadha, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC Hotels said: "We are happy to announce the addition of three new properties under Storii by ITC Hotels at some of the most sought-after destinations in the country. The new properties at Goa, Manali, and Prayagraj highlight our focus on growth and expansion in the boutique hotel space. Storii by ITC Hotels is fast becoming a preferred brand in the experiential segment, welcoming travelers seeking local experiences. Every property under this brand tells its own unique Storii." Soon to open, Storii Moira Riviera, is located in Moira, a pretty village in North Goa known for its beautiful rivulet views, winding lanes and serene sunsets. This 15 keys boutique property follows the Mediterranean style design & architecture. Most rooms offer a plunge pool, fascinating scenic sights and various recreational facilities including the K by Kayakalp spa. Adding to their strength in Himachal Pradesh, ITC Hotels has signed the 23 keys Urvashi's Retreat, Manali for brand Storii. Enhancing the boutique experience, every aspect of the property will be further personaliSed to offer a unique blend of local rusticity and splendor. With around one thousand square feet-large playroom, Urvashi's Retreat is popular with kids. Located in the heart of the city, Storii Prayagraj is rooted in heritage and just 10 km away from the popular pilgrim spot Triveni Sangam. Built in traditional architecture with sprawling lawns, the property will be extensively refurbished to accommodate a new wing even as the current heritage wing stands a reminder to the eras gone by. The new offering shall offer the K by Kayakalp spa and exciting food and beverage options including a bar, an all-day dining and a speciality restaurant. Storii is a collection of hand-picked boutique properties, designed to satiate the ever-evolving needs of the global traveller. Consisting of intimate-sized properties in the premium segment, Storii by ITC Hotels can be found at both expected and unexpected destinations, breath-taking locales or sites steeped in history, golden untouched beaches or jungles thriving with adventure, quiet scenic valleys or deserts buzzing with folklore. Each property offers a distinct experience, and these unique stays will ensure that the brand tells a story like no one else. --IANS san/D ( 418 Words) 2023-05-08-22:06:03 (IANS)
Sonam Kapoor took centre stage at the Coronation Concert as she introduced various choir performers of the Commonwealth. Sonam's piece served as a prelude to the inspiring virtual choir performances by the Commonwealth, made up of choirs, solo artists and duos from the 56 Commonwealth countries. Sonam also introduced Steve Winwood, who performed a modern version of his iconic song 'Higher Love' accompanied by a 70-piece orchestra. She began her speech with 'Namaste'. She was introduced as one of the biggest actors in Bollywood. The 'Khoobsurat' actor emphasized the diversity of the Commonwealth during her spoken word performance. She also elucidated upon the oneness that binds the diversity of the nation. Sonam's video was shared by her mother Sunita Kapoor. She wrote in the caption, "So proud! Such an honour!" Sonam also replied back to her post saying 'love you' with heart emojis. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr9H-6mOt-Z/ Sonam's family gave her the loudest shout-out. From Arjun Kapoor to Sanjay Kapoor, Maheep Kapoor and Bhavna Panday posted emojis on Sunita's post. Ahead of her performance at the historic Coronation Concert, Sonam Kapoor unveiled the mystery over her dress. Known to be a fashionista, the 'Neerja' actor opted for a classy and elegant Bardot gown for the occasion. She sported minimal makeup and an accessory look. Taking to Instagram, the actor shared a string of pictures from the special photo shoot. While the first picture of the set holds a close-up portfolio of the actor, the others showcase her beautiful dress from different angles. Sonam's dress was designed by her favourites Anamika Khanna and Emilia Wickstead. Sonam wrote in the caption, "Historic moments call for fashion moments. I'm honoured to mark the unforgettable occasion of the #Coronationconcert by wearing the collaborative vision of two of the most incredible designers from the two countries I'm lucky to call home..@anamikakhanna.in @emiliawickstead." (ANI)
A day after King Charles and Queen Camilla, were crowned at Westminster Abbey, the Prince of Wales delivered a special speech dedicated to his father at the Coronation Concert. Standing before a cheering crowd and thanking those behind the epic evening, Prince William began, "I want to say a few words about my father and why I believe this weekend is so important. But don't worry, unlike Lionel, I won't go on all night long," he joked in a nod to the "All Night Long" hitmaker, whose performance preceded his remarks, reported People. "As my grandmother said when she was crowned, 'Coronations are a declaration of our hopes for the future,' " Prince William said, quoting Queen Elizabeth's coronation speech from 1953. "And I know she's up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. She would be a proud mother." Turning back to his father's crowning, the prince continued, "For all that celebrations are magnificent, at the heart of the pageantry is a simple message. Service," the Prince of Wales said. "My father's first words on entering Westminster Abbey yesterday were a pledge of service. It was a pledge to continue to serve. Because for over 50 years, in every corner of the U.K, across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others, both current and future generations, and those whose memory must not be neglected," reported People. "Take the natural world. He warned us of the risks to our planet's health long before it was an everyday issue," William said, pointing to his father's lifelong passion for conservation and the environment. "Or the Prince's Trust. It has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realize their ambitions," he continued, referencing Charles' namesake charity, established 1976. "And, perhaps most importantly of all, my father has always understood that people of all faiths, all backgrounds, and all communities, deserve to be celebrated and supported," the Prince of Wales added, emphasizing his father's interest in and dedication to interfaith relations. "Pa, we are all so proud of you." "I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve, in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities," William continued. "I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us, and tonight we celebrate you too." "I commit myself to serve you all. King, Country and Commonwealth," he concluded. "God Save the King." Prince William's speech echoed his appearance at the Platinum Party at the Palace, which took place in June 2022 as part of the celebrations to mark his late grandmother Queen Elizabeth's 70 years on the throne, reported People. During the May 6 crowning ceremony, Prince William knelt before King Charles, placed his hands between his father's and vowed to serve him. He said, "I, William, Prince of Wales, pledge my loyalty to you and faith and truth I will bear unto you, as your liege man of life and limb. So help me God." (ANI)
Actor Sonam Kapoor celebrates the best "7 years of her life" with husband Anand Ahuja. On Monday, the 'Neerja' actor penned an adorable wish to mark their wedding anniversary. Taking to Instagram, Sonam dropped a string of pictures featuring the couple's wedding moments to vacation time but what caught the attention was Anand's photo with his son Vayu. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr-PBnaK8sD/ Sharing the pictures, she wrote, "It's our Anniversary! Everyday I thank my stars that I got you as my life partner and soulmate. Thank you for the best best 7 years of my life. Filled with laughter, passion, long conversations, music, travel , long drives and most importantly bringing up our beautiful Vayu. Love you my jaan.. I'll forever be your girlfriend, best friend and wife, Everyday with you is truly phenomenal! #everydayphenomenal #vayusparents @anandahuja." As soon as the post was uploaded, the actor fans and industry friends dropped in their comments. Bhumi Pednekar's sister Samiksha wrote, "Happy Anniversary." Maheep Kapoor wrote, "Happy anniversary guys." Shibani Akhtar commented, "happy anniversary you two." One of the users wrote, "Uffffff." Sonam and Anand tied the knot on May 8, 2018, in a traditional Anand Karaj ceremony. In March 2022, the couple announced that they are expecting their first child together. The couple welcomed their baby boy on August 20, 2022 in Mumbai. The proud parents announced the news through a cute message template that read, "On 20.08.2022, we welcomed our beautiful baby boy with bowed heads and open hearts. Thank you to all of the doctors, nurses, friends and family who have supported us on this journey. It's only the beginning, but we know our lives are forever changed. Meanwhile, on the work front, Sonam will be next seen in the upcoming film 'Blind' directed by Shome Makhija, starring Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak and Lillete Dubey in prominent roles. The first look of the film was recently been unveiled at the Jio Studio's event. (ANI)
As the comedy-drama 'Piku' completed eight years since it was released, reminiscing the memories with her co-stars, actor Deepika Padukone penned a long note on social media. Taking to Instagram, Deepika dropped behind-the-scene pictures featuring late actor Irrfan Khan and Amitabh Bachchan. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cr-t9UjrqRZ/ Sharing the stills, she wrote, "It's been 8 years since this gem of a movie released with these 2 very special people. And if I could relive this experience all over again, I'd do it in a heartbeat. @irrfan, I miss you! @amitabhbachchan , @sircarshoojit & @juhic3 I love you! To everyone who made this film possible, thank you for your energy.#Piku As soon as the post was uploaded, netizens chimed in the comment section. One of the users wrote, "This movie will always remain my comfort watch, the best." Another commented, "Piku is indeed a gem of movie and will always have a special place in my heart." "Irrfan will always be missed. One of a kind gem," another comment read. Another user commented, "Piku is like that slice of pie you never knew you craved until you had a little taste." 'Piku' was a very realistic character, who though with a frowning forehead dealt with her father Amitabh Bachchan's childlike behaviour. The movie also starred the late actor Irrfan Khan. Shoojit Sircar's 'Piku' starred Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Irrfan in the lead and was released in 2015. The film received positive reviews from both the critics as well as the audience. Deepika won her second Filmfare Award for Best Actress category for her role in the movie. Meanwhile, Deepika will be next seen in the upcoming pan-India action thriller film 'Project K' opposite actor Prabhas. She also has Siddharth Anand's next aerial action thriller film 'Fighter' opposite Hrithik Roshan in her kitty. This is her second film with director Siddharth Anand after they delivered this year's biggest hit, Pathaan. 'Fighter', which is scheduled to release on January 25 next year, will also star Karan Singh Grover and Akshay Oberoi. (ANI)
The death toll in the Malappuram boat capsize incident rose to 21 on Monday, the Regional Fire Range Officer said. The incident happened in the Malappuram district in Kerala, where a tourist boat capsized near the Tanur coast. > While talking to ANI, Regional Fire Range Officer Shiju KK said, "So far, we have recovered 22 dead bodies. We don''t know the exact number of people on the boat, so we are continuing the search to find out whether there are more victims trapped in the mud or not." Several vehicles reached the spot and started the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George called an emergency meeting of the State Health Department at midnight following the incident and directed the officials to ensure better treatment for the injured. The health minister has directed better treatment for the injured and the speeding up of the post-mortem process. The minister has also given strict instructions to start the post-mortem at 6 am on Monday. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday condoled the loss of lives in the Malappuram boat capsize incident and ordered the effective coordination of rescue operations. "Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends," said CM Pinarayi Vijayan in a tweet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi," said a tweet from th Prime Minister''s office on Sunday night. (ANI)
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday expressed his gratitude and thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his constant support as the situation in the state continues to improve. "As the situation in Manipur continues to improve and normalcy returns, I'm thankful to the Shri @AmitShah Ji for his constant supervision and support to make this feat possible. I have been constantly in touch with the @HMOIndia to monitor the situation and ensure no further violence is taken place in the State. The paramilitary and state forces have been doing an exemplary job in controlling the violence and bringing the state back to normalcy. I also appreciate the people of the state for their cooperation. @PMOIndia @JPNadda @sambitswaraj @AShardaDevi @crpfindia @BSF_India @adgpi," the Manipur CM said in a tweet. On Sunday, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey convened a security review meeting at Imphal over the violence in the State. Security Adviser to Manipur government Kuldip Singh, IPS (Retd) and Additional Director General of Police Ashutosh Sinha, the overall Operational Commander of the present turmoil arising in the State were present in the meeting. Security Advisor to the Manipur government, Kuldiep Singh on Saturday said that the number of confirmed deaths in the violence is about 28-30 but the government has to verify it further. Security advisor Kuldiep Singh said the state government is verifying the deaths due to the violence. As of now the confirmed deaths are 28-30."...The confirmed death cases are 28-30. We are further verifying. As and when we get it verified and find out that it is because of the violence, we will confirm it", Singh said. Singh added that in many claims, more than 54 people have been said to have died, which is being officially verified. Giving details of the skirmish on Friday, Kuldiep Singh said, "Yesterday there was a skirmish. Army column had to open fire. Today morning, three bodies have been found there." According to Raj Bhavan, Governor Uikey expressed during the meeting that she had already made to all the sections of the society to solve the problem through peaceful dialogue amicably. Governor appreciated the relentless efforts made by the Security Forces to save lives and properties at this critical juncture. Further, she also suggested shifting people, who are in different relief camps, to send to their respective places safely which was acceded to by both the Security Adviser and the Operational Commander. Indian Army and Assam Rifles which were called in to curb violence in Manipur have successfully rescued nearly 23,000 civilians so far and moved them to the operating bases, a statement from the Indian Army said on Sunday. Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh met with the representatives of the 'Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI)' in the wake of the violence in the State, informed CM in a tweet. Political parties including Congress, NPF, NPP, CPI(M), Aam Aadmi Party and Shiv Sena attended the meeting chaired by Biren Singh himself. The meeting follows violence that erupted in the immediate aftermath of inter-community clashes in a few northeastern state districts amid protests against the inclusion of the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. (ANI)
A 38-year-old woman, who was evacuated by Assam Rifles in Manipur during the ongoing violence in the State, delivered a healthy baby at the camp, officials said on Sunday. The woman, identified as Esther Hontah delivered the baby at the Mantripukhri camp in Imphal by Assam Rifles doctors, according to the public relations officer Kohima & Imphal of the Ministry of Defence. Indian Army and Assam Rifles were called in to curb violence in Manipur. The forces have successfully rescued nearly 23,000 civilians so far and moved them to the operating bases, a statement from the Indian Army said on Sunday. Security advisor to the Manipur government Kuldeep Singh said on Sunday that tension continued to prevail in some areas of Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Moreh of Manipur "The current situation in Manipur has improved quite a lot. Today curfew was also relaxed. Some areas of Churachandpur, Kangpokpi and Moreh are still under tension. Peace meetings were held. Till now, 134 arms have been recovered out of the looted arms," Singh told ANI. "Thirty seven casualties took place so far and agencies are reporting some more deaths, we are still verifying," he added. Earlier on Sunday, Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey convened a security review meeting at Imphal over the violence in the State. Security Adviser to Manipur government Kuldip Singh, IPS (Retd) and Additional Director General of Police Ashutosh Sinha, the overall Operational Commander of the present turmoil arising in the State were present in the meeting. According to Raj Bhavan, Governor Uikey expressed during the meeting that she had already made to all the sections of the society to solve the problem through peaceful dialogue amicably. The Governor appreciated the relentless efforts made by the Security Forces to save lives and properties at this critical juncture. Further, she also suggested shifting people, who are in different relief camps, to send to their respective places safely which was acceded to by both the Security Adviser and the Operational Commander. Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh met with the representatives of the 'Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI)' in the wake of the violence in the State, informed the chief minister in a tweet. Political parties including Congress, NPF, NPP, CPI(M), Aam Aadmi Party and Shiv Sena attended the meeting chaired by Biren Singh. Violence that erupted in the immediate aftermath of inter-community clashes in a few northeastern state districts amid protests against the inclusion of the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. Manipur government had requisitioned Army and Assam Rifles on May 3 and 4. State's Director General of Police (DGP) P Doungel has said that the situation in the State has improved after the intervention of security forces including Rapid Action Force (RAF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deployed in the State. The State government has also appointed Additional Director-General of Police (Intelligence), Ashutosh Sinha as the overall operational commander to control the situation in Manipur, the Manipur DGP said. Violence had erupted in the immediate aftermath of inter-community clashes in a few districts of the northeastern State amid protests against the inclusion of the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. (ANI)
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday expressed his condolences to the families of the people who lost their lives in Kerala's Malappuram boat capsize incident on Sunday. Taking to his personal Twitter handle, Rahul Gandhi wrote: "Distraught by the news of a houseboat capsizing in Malappuram, Kerala. My heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones, and wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured. I appeal to Congress workers to assist the authorities in rescue operations." The death toll in the boat capsize incident rose to 21 on Monday, the Regional Fire Range Officer said. The incident happened in the Malappuram district in Kerala, where a tourist boat capsized near the Tanur coast. While talking to ANI, Regional Fire Range Officer Shiju KK said, "So far, we have recovered 21 dead bodies. We don't know the exact number of people on the boat, so we are continuing the search to find out whether there are more victims trapped in the mud or not". Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George called an emergency meeting of the State Health Department at midnight following the incident and directed the officials to ensure better treatment for the injured and the speeding up of the post-mortem process. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday condoled the loss of lives in the boat capsize incident and ordered the effective coordination of rescue operations. "Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends" said CM Pinarayi Vijayan in a tweet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi," said a tweet from the Prime Minister's office on Sunday night. (ANI)
Assam Police arrested a doctor couple for allegedly torturing a four-year-old girl at their house in the Paltan Bazaar area of Assam. The police on Sunday said that the four-year-old girl was an adopted child of the couple. Police on Saturday night arrested Psychiatrist Sangeeta Datta from Meghalaya's Ri-Bhoi district a day after her husband Dr Walliul Islam who is a gastrointestinal and advanced general surgeon, was held from his residence in Guwahati. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Nandini Kakati told ANI, "Police received information that, a four-year-old is tied up on a pole on the terrace of a house and she was being beaten with a hot rod. Police immediately rushed to the spot and rescued the minor girl." "At first, they (doctor couple) said that the girl is their own child, but during the investigation, we found that she was not their child and they adopted her. When we rescued the minor girl, we also found several injuries, and burn marks on her body. The minor girl also told us that she was tortured by the couple," Kakati added. The police official said that they have arrested the accused couple and a police investigation is underway. In February this year, Police rescued a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted, starved and tortured by her employers. The couple who engaged the teenager as their domestic help was arrested from their employers' house in New Colony area of Gurugram. (ANI)
The flight will leave Guwahati around 4.30 pm for Mumbai, according to Maharashtra Chief Minister's office. The flight is expected to land in Mumbai at 6.30 pm.

The students are leaving for Guwahati from Manipur's capital Imphal to board the flight.

On Sunday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde interacted with students of the state who are stranded in Manipur.

Shiv Sena released the video of Shinde talking with the students.

"The students thanked the Chief Minister for helping them so promptly and said that we are all safe," the party said.

Meanwhile, Air India has extended a full fee waiver on rescheduling or cancellation of tickets for all flights to or from Manipur till Monday.

The decision was taken in view of the situation in the northeastern state. The airline started to offer the concession on May 4.

Several state governments are working on plans to move their residents out of the violence-hit Manipur.

Internet services remain suspended in Manipur after ethnic clashes. Starting Sunday, there has been some relaxation in curfew for people to be able to purchase essential items in the violence-affected areas.

Violence erupted amid protests against moves towards the inclusion of the state's majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. (ANI)
An FIR was registered against an unidentified individual at a cybercrime station in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj after a social media post vowed to take "revenge" for the killing of gangster Atiq Ahmed, police said. According to an FIR registered by Prayagraj Police on the complaint of an individual identified as Mohammad Alamgir, the post was made by a Twitter handle by the name of 'The Sajjad Mughal'. "A complainant named Mohammad Alamgir has filed the FIR. A case under section 505 (2) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 66 of the Information Technology (IT) Act 2008 has been registered," the FIR registered by the police said on Monday. The police said that the investigation into the matter has been taken up. According to the FIR, the tweet posted by the Twitter handle 'The Sajjad Mughal', said, "The breed is not over yet. Atiq's son Ali is still alive. Insha Allah condition - time - power will change. The city will be called Allahabad. The revenge will be taken." Gangsters Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf Ahmad were shot dead by men posing as journalists on April 15 night this year, while they were being taken for a medical examination in Prayagraj. Both the gangsters collapsed on the spot after being shot close to point-blank range. All three assailants -- Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lovelesh Tiwari -- were sent to judicial custody by the district court. 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)
Launching a scathing attack on Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati has alleged that the former is doing politics in the name of Babasaheb Ambedkar and that he remained tight-lipped when a politician, killing State's IAS officer G Krishnaiah, was freed by Bihar government. Notably, Anand Mohan Singh, a convict in the murder case of the IAS office, was released from Saharsa prison on April 27 this year, after the Nitish Kumar government amended the Bihar Prison Manual 2012 thus allowing the release of 27 convicts including the gangster-turned-politician. "When the person who killed the Telangana IAS officer in Bihar is released by the Bihar government, the Telangana CM is not saying a word," she said while addressing Telangana Bharosa Sabha at Saroor Nagar Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday. Mayawati, who is attempting to expand her political footprint in the southern state of Telangana, declared BSP's RS Praveen Kumar, an ex-IPS, as the Chief Ministerial candidate. She also directed the leaders and activists to prepare for the upcoming elections. "Telangana will develop if such a person (Praveen Kumar) becomes the Chief Minister," Mayawati said. Aiming at the state government, she alleged that KCR wants to change the Constitution. "KCR government is doing politics in the name of Ambedkar. He wants to change the constitution," she alleged. Taking note of KCR's Dalit Empowerment Scheme (Telangana Dalit Bandhu), wherein he promised the distribution of three acres of land each to landless Dalit, Mayawati said that the scheme was her brainchild, while she was CM of Uttar Pradesh and KCR "copied" the scheme. "While I was in power in Uttar Pradesh, the BSP government distributed three acres of land to the Dalits there. KCR copied that scheme," she said, adding that KCR did not implement it on the ground. "Babasaheb Ambedkar's goals are still not fulfilled in the country," she added. Mayawati further said that BSP also had a role in the formation of a separate Telangana. She further said that the BSP had supported the Telangana Bill in the Parliament. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Monday expressed its displeasure over the security lapses in Tihar Jail after the killing of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya by his rival gang members inside Tihar Jail, saying that it is a totally unacceptable state of affairs. The Delhi High Court also granted Tajpuriya's father and brother protection of the court. The Bench of Justice Jasmeet Singh on Monday while hearing a plea filed by Tillu Tajpuriyas' father and brother seeking the direction of CBI investigation in the murder and also protection for them, directed the jail superintendent of Tihar Jail to remain present in court on the next date of hearing. The Bench further directed that the Tihar Jail Authorities to file a status report, which should indicate the responsibility and accountability of jail officers who were responsible for the lapses. After watching the CCTV, the bench also said, the court is unable to comprehend why no steps were taken by authorities if the incident was captured in CCTV cameras inside the jail. Gangster Tillu Tajpuriya, an accused in Delhi's Rohini court shootout case was killed by rival gang members in Tihar jail on May 2 this year. According to the prison officials, Tillu Tajpuriya was immediately taken to Delhi's Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Meanwhile, the case has now been transferred to a special cell for investigation. The case was registered in Hari Nagar police station under sections 302 and 307 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Members of the rival gang namely Deepak Teeter, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan had around 6:15 am cut open the iron grill installed on the first floor of the ward using an improvised saw. According to a prison official, the accused were lodged on the first floor of the same ward and they used an iron rod to attack Tajpuriya. Tajpuriya, a resident of Delhi who headed the infamous Tillu gang, was arrested in 2016 for multiple crimes and had been in jail ever since. Sunil Balyan alias Tajpuriya was the main accused in the Rohini court shootout case in September 2021 which left his friend-turned-rival gangster Jitender Maan alias Gogi dead. (ANI)
A man has been shot dead over Rs 4,000 at an advocate's office in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri area, police said. The incident happened on Sunday and the deceased has been identified as Anas Ahmad who sustained a bullet injury and was declared dead at Majida Hospital in the area, they said. A case has been registered and a search is on to nab the accused, who is absconding, the police said. According to the police, information was received at 11:51 pm that a bullet had been fired and had hit one person at advocate Sushil Gupta's office in Govindpuri. Investigations revealed that Zafrool, a client of advocate Sushil Gupta, was having a monetary dispute with Syed Mukkim Raza over Rs 4,000. "Zafrool told Sushil Gupta to intervene and then Ankit Bidhuri, Mukim Raza, Varun and Gulam Md reached the office of Sushil Gupta for talks. One common acquaintance Amit Mandra with two others also came. They were taken to Sushil Gupta's office by Amit Madar who came in his vehicle," the police said. The police added that a fight broke out. Several locals reached the office of Sushil Gupta, seeing the crowd Varun Bidhuri alias Binnu fired several shots into the office, out of which one shot hit Anas Ahmad who was declared dead in Majidia hospital. "Ankit Bidhuri, Mukim Raza and Varun escaped through the rooftop, after reaching the spot an extensive search was launched on the rooftop and after more than two hours Ankit and Mukim were caught hiding on the roof of a building by local police," the police added. "The public also beat three other persons Yogesh Khatana, Ritesh Khatana and Naveen Bhati mistaking them for associates of the assailants," the police official said Local police reached the spot where the firing had taken place. "At the spot, one black vehicle used by assailants was found damaged and broken by the public after the firing incident," the police added. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday directed YouTuber Manish Kashyap to move to the concerned high court with his plea challenging a detention order of Tamil Nadu police under the National Security Act in the various FIRs registered against him over his videos relating to migrants labourers from Bihar being attacked in Tamil Nadu. A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud refused to entertain Kashyap's plea seeking clubbing of FIRs against him. The court said that one cannot circulate and disturb the peace in a stable state. The court directed Kashyap to approach the concerned high court-- Madras and Bihar -- with his plea challenging various FIRs registered against him. "We are not inclined to entertain the petition. However, petitioner has the liberty to approach High Court," the court said. Kashyap, a Bihar-based journalist has approached the Supreme Court seeking clubbing of FIRs registered against him. Senior Advocate Maninder Singh, appearing for YouTuber apprised the top court that if Kashyap would remain inside continuously, it would be a serious miscarriage of justice. However, counsel for Tamil Nadu Government and Bihar Government opposed the plea and apprised the court that there were 12 FIRs in Bihar and six in Tamil Nadu. The counsel of Bihar apprised the top court that the first FIR against him is filed over the allegation of creating a fake video showing migrant labourers. The second FIR was filed against him over a video with a different picture and soundtrack and the third FIR is based on a picture where he shows himself in handcuffs saying that he was arrested. Bihar Government claimed Kashyap was a habitual offender Besides Senior Advocate Singh, Manish Kashyap was represented by lawyers Aditya Singh Deshwal, Abhijeet and Ridam Arora. Kashyap's counsel apprised the court earlier that National Security Act has been imposed against his client. Kashyap said that many false FIRs were registered against him in Bihar and Tamil Nadu at the behest of the present ruling government. Kashyap sought interim bail and clubbed all cases in one place. He said that cases against him were filed because he had raised the issue of violence against the Bihar-based migrant labourers in Tamil Nadu on social media. The YouTuber, who was caught for allegedly circulating false and misleading information about purported attacks on migrant labourers working in Tamil Nadu was arrested from Bettiah in Bihar on March 18. According to the Bihar Police, Kashyap surrendered at Jagdishpur police station in Bettiah while the Bihar Police and Economic Offence Unit (EOU) were in the process of attaching his house. Kashyap was wanted by Bihar Police and Tamil Nadu Police in a fake news matter of labourers issue in the southern state, according to an official statement issued by the EOU of Bihar Police had said. (ANI)
A helicopter of the Indian Navy, with an aircrew diver, was set off on Monday for Malappuram, wherein a boat capsized drowning around 40 tourists, to assist in the ongoing rescue operations, a statement from Southern Naval Command said. According to the statement, the helicopter was launched at the request of the Kerala government. The site of the incident is approx 150 km from Kochi. "Initial aerial survey of the site of the incident was undertaken. Contact has been established with National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and a local diving team undertaking a search in the area," the statement read. "Multiple sorties of the naval helicopter are planned to aid the civil administration with the ongoing search operations," it added. Twenty-two people, including a police officer, were killed after an overloaded double-decker tourist boat capsized at Parappanangadi on Sunday (May 7). Earlier in the day, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors of the boat capsize incident near the Tanur coast a day ago were admitted. The Kerala government has also ordered a judicial probe into the incident. The chief minister announced Rs 10 lakh compensation to the kin of victims and said the government will bear the treatment expense of the injured people. Notably, Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan earlier today said that 22 people have died so far in boat capsize incident. The minister informed that a search operation by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and rescue teams is underway. "37 people have been identified. 22 people died. 10 people have been identified in different hospitals. Five people were confirmed to have swum in. A total of 37 people were identified," said the state minister. "The exact number of people who travelled on the boat could not be recorded. Let there be no more," he said. "However, all searches are ongoing. NDRF, fire and rescue and scuba team are conducting the searches. The Navy's team has also come forward. The Coast Guard arrived yesterday. Only other help will be received from them. A second team of NDRF will also arrive here," the minister said. Malappuram District Collector, VR Prem Kumar told ANI that rescue operations are in full swing. "Rescue operations are in full swing. We are in constant touch with the hospital authorities. The district administration has alerted all the departments since the incident happened. We are grateful to the local fishermen who volunteered in this search operation," said the district collector. He said that Navy personnel have also reached the spot to assist in the rescue operations. Officials informed that a 21-member National Disaster Response Relief (NDRF) team and the fire force started a rescue operation early on Monday, adding, "A police officer was also among the dead". Post-mortem procedures of those who died have been completed and the bodies have been handed over to their relatives. Post-mortem was conducted at Thirurangadi, Perunthalmanna Hospitals and Mancheri Medical College. Post-mortems were also conducted in private hospitals, officials said. Chief Minister Vijayan had condoled the loss of lives in the boat capsize incident and ordered the effective coordination of rescue operations. "Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and friends," Vijayan said in a tweet. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs two lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to Bihar Government on slain IAS officer G Krishnaiah's wife Uma Krishnaiah's plea, challenging the premature release of Bihar politician Anand Mohan from prison. Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra, appearing for the petitioner, said that this is an unfortunate matter. A bench of justices Surya Kant and JK Maheshwari issued notice to respondents including the Bihar government and Centre and also called the entire record related to matters from the concerned authorities. The court sought replies from the Bihar Government, Centre, Anand Mohan and others. The court also allowed the intervening application filed by retired IAS officer KJ Alphons and permitted him to provide assistance to the court in the matter. Uma Krishnaiah, in the plea, said that the State of Bihar has specially brought about an amendment to the Bihar Prison Manual 2012 with retrospective effect vide Amendment dated April 10 2023, in order to ensure that the convict, Anand Mohan be granted the benefit of remission. She said that amendment dated April 10, 2023, is against the Notification dated December 12, 2002, as well as against the public policy and has resulted in the demoralisation of the Civil Servants in the State, therefore, it suffers from the vice of malafide and is manifestly arbitrarily and is contrary to the idea of a welfare state. The plea was filed through advocate Tanya Shree. Gangster-turned-politician Anand Mohan Singh a convict in the then District Magistrate G Krishnaiah case, walked free from Saharsa jail before the break of dawn on Thursday, April 27. He was serving a life sentence in the 1994 murder of then Gopalganj District Magistrate G Krishnaiah. After the Bihar Government amended the rules of the Jail manual, an official notification stated that 27 prisoners who have served 14 years or 20 years in jail have been ordered to be released. The gangster-turned-politician was earlier on parole of 15 days to attend the engagement ceremony of his MLA son Chetan Anand. He returned to Saharsa jail on April 26 following the end of his parole period. Anand Mohan was convicted in the murder case of Gopalganj District Magistrate G Krishnaiah on December 5, 1994, in Muzaffarpur. Krishnaiah was killed by a mob allegedly provoked by Anand Mohan Singh. He was dragged out of his official car and lynched. Anand Mohan was sentenced to death by a trial court in 2007. A year later, the sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Patna High Court. Mohan then challenged the verdict in Supreme Court but no relief has been granted yet and he has remained in Saharsa jail since 2007. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Director General of Police C Sylendra Babu has ordered an inquiry into the Delhi Tihar Jail incident where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was murdered, an official of the Tamil Nadu Special Police said on Monday. CCTV footage of the incident that surfaced purportedly shows some policemen in uniform standing as mute spectators during the May 2 incident. Tamil Nadu Special Police said that the Additional Director General of Police, TN, HM Jayaram would be visiting Tihar jail on Monday to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, a Quick Response Team (QRT) armed with anti-riot equipment has been placed at Tihar Jail after the recent murder of gangster Tajpuriya, officials said on Sunday. According to prison officials, QRT has been placed in Tihar and will be armed with anti-riot equipment. They added that the team would not be carrying any lethal weapon as the prison manual prohibits the deployment of weapons as per current rules. "The armed men are placed only on the entry-exit points, and specific and strategic points. They will be equipped with helmet, baton, bulletproof jacket, chilli powder, etc," a prison official said. Director General (Prison), Tihar Jail, Sanjay Baniwal met Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Friday and presented a detailed report on the murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya inside the jail premises, said sources in the L-G House. Also, in the wake of the killing, nine staff members of Tihar Jail, including the Assistant Superintendent, were suspended after a CCTV visual of the gangster being stabbed by rival gang members inside Tihar went viral on Friday. The second CCTV visual of the macabre murder showed that fellow inmates continued stabbing the prime accused of the Rohini Court shootout in front of uniformed personnel, who did not intervene. The footage from the CCTV camera mounted on the wall of Central Gallery inside Tihar Jail, is from around 6:15 am on May 2. The police personnel could be seen standing near Tillu Tajpuriya, lying on the floor, and watching three men stabbing the gangster with weapons, fashioned out of lockup grills. Earlier on Thursday, the first set of CCTV footage emerged. The footage was from around 6:10 am on May 2. In the visuals, no police officer was seen. Some prisoners could be seen there, but no one was able to stop the attackers. Gangster Tillu Tajpuriya, an accused in Delhi's Rohini court shootout case was killed by rival gang members in Tihar jail on May 2. According to the prison officials, Tillu Tajpuriya was immediately taken to Delhi's Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he was declared dead. Members of the rival gang namely Deepak alias Teeter, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan had around 6:15 am cut open the iron grill installed on the first floor of the ward using an improvised saw. According to a prison official, the accused were lodged on the first floor of the same ward and they used an iron rod to attack Tajpuriya. Tajpuriya, a resident of Delhi who headed the infamous Tillu gang, was arrested in 2016 for multiple crimes and had been in jail ever since. (ANI)
'The Kerala Story' has sparked a political slugfest in Madhya Pradesh with State home minister Narottam Mishra on Monday stating that he had sent two tickets of the film to Congress State President Kamal Nath and Rajya Sabha Member Digvijay Singh. "I have bought two tickets to send to Congress leaders and former Chief Ministers Digvijaya Singh and Kamal Nath. Those who have dubbed Zakir Naik as a peace ambassador must watch this movie," Mishra told reporters here. 'The Kerala Story' has been declared tax-free in Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, in his reaction to the visit of Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar to the State, Mishra said, "It means that Congressmen could not connect the youth in the State. Now, will Kanhiya Kumar be able to connect the youth in the State?" Meanwhile, talking about violence-hit Manipur, he said that about 20 students from the State were stuck in the northeastern State. Contact numbers of 12 students were found so far. Further conditions will be clear in the next few hours. CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan had talked to the Chief Minister of Manipur. "We are also trying to talk to the children, some children have given permission to come, and some children said that they are safe. First, the students will be brought to Kolkata and then they will be brought to Madhya Pradesh by a routine flight," Mishra added. Several State governments are working on plans to move their residents out of the violence-hit Manipur. Starting Sunday, there has been some relaxation in curfew for people to be able to purchase essential items in the violence-affected areas. Violence had erupted in the immediate aftermath of inter-community clashes in a few districts of the northeastern State amid protests against the inclusion of the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. (ANI)
Former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia, lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with the liquor policy, said on Monday that no matter how hard the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) tries, no development work will stop in the national capital. "Neither the work of Patparganj nor of Delhi will stop. No matter how hard BJP people try, no work of Delhi will stop," Sisodia said while being taken out from the Rouse Avenue Court. Sisodia was on Monday produced in Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court at the end of his judicial remand in the Enforcement Directorate (ED) case in connection with the Delhi excise policy. Special Judge MK Nagpal on Monday extended Manish Sisodia's judicial custody in the ED case till May 23, 2023. Meanwhile, the court has also allowed application by Manish Sisodia's legal team to obtain and sign certain documents for approving the disbursement of funds for development work in his constituency. On May 6, Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court was apprised by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that a proceed of the crime of around Rs 622 crore has been generated due to the alleged activities of the present accused Manish Sisodia. The agency was submitted before the court during a hearing on a charge sheet against former deputy CM Manish Sisodia. Special judge MK Nagpal had listed the matter for consideration on May 10. ED apprised the court that the hard copy of the supplementary charge sheet has been filed. The federal agency on May 4, 2023, filed a supplementary chargesheet against Manish Sisodia in the Delhi excise policy case. The supplementary chargesheet was filed by special public prosecutor Naveen Kumar Matta. The supplementary charge has more than 2,100 pages. The operating part has 271 pages. The charge has been filed within the stipulated period of 60 days. Sisodia was arrested by the ED in this case on March 9. Earlier he was arrested by the CBI on February 26. He is the 29th accused arrested in this case. The CBI has already filed the charge sheet in the matter. Recently Sisodia moved regular and interim bail pleas both in the High Court. He moved interim bail on the basis of his wife's illness and sought six weeks' bail in that. The High Court records there's a plea for interim bail also on the grounds of illness of his wife. The Rouse Avenue Court last week dismissed the bail plea of Manish Sisodia in a money laundering case related to the excise case stating that "this case of economic offences having serious repercussions upon the general public and society at large as the evidence collected during investigation speaks volumes of his involvement in the commission of the said offence." Court also noted that some evidence was also alleged to have surfaced during the investigation to show that some part of the kickback or bribe amount received from South lobby was spent or utilized in connection with the election campaign of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Goa. Further, some cash payments through hawala channels were alleged to have been sent to Goa for bearing the said expenses and even some fake invoices were alleged to have been created as a cover-up for the cash amounts transferred through hawala channels. It was stated that the above cash transfers were made as per instructions of the co-accused Vijay Nair, who was the representative of the applicant and also the media incharge of AAP. He was allegedly looking after the work related to said elections. He also allegedly roped in a company named Chariot Productions Media Pvt Ltd owned by the co-accused Rajesh Joshi to do the election-related advertising work and other jobs for the party during said elections, noted the court. The Enforcement Directorate on March 9 arrested former Manish Sisodia in the liquor policy case, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail. 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 excise policy of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD). (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the loss of lives and properties in Manipur during the violence between Meitei and Kuki communities, and sought a status report from the Centre and State governments on the steps being taken for safety, rehabilitation of displaced people and protection of religious places. A bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala stressed taking adequate measures to restore normalcy over there. "We are concerned very deeply about the loss of lives and properties," the bench said. The bench asked Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and Manipur government, to ensure that due arrangements are made in relief camps in terms of food and medicines. It further told the Centre to ensure that steps are taken to rehabilitate displaced persons and to protect places of worship. The apex court posted the matter for hearing on May 17. During the hearing, CJI Chandrachud asked Solicitor General about how many relief camps there and how many people are in the relief camps. The bench also asked what arrangements have been made since this is a "humanitarian issue". Solicitor General told the top court that 52 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and 105 columns of Army/Assam Rifles have been deployed in Manipur. Flag marches have been conducted in disturbed areas, Mehta told the bench, adding that a senior police officer has been appointed by the Centre as a security advisor and also a senior IAS officer was repatriated from central deputation to Manipur to function as its Chief Secretary amid the emergency situation. The movement of stranded being facilitated by security forces, SG added. Mehta further apprised the top court that peace meetings have been conducted. Helicopters and drones were used and constant vigil is being maintained by paramilitary forces and Army. He further added that no violence has been reported for two days in the State and curfew was relaxed for a few hours yesterday. The situation is returning to normalcy, Mehta said. "Let everything is calm down," SG told the bench asking it to hear at a later time an appeal filed by the Chairman of the Hill Areas Committe (HAC) of the Manipur Legislative Assembly, and BJP MLA, Dinganglung Gangmei, challenging the High Court order in relation to Scheduled Tribe status for the Meitei community as a tribe of Manipur. The bench emphasised that due arrangements be made in relief camps in terms of food, medical; taking all necessary precautions for the rehabilitation of displaced persons and protecting places of religious worship. "Our immediate target is the protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people. We are concerned deeply about the loss of lives and loss of properties. These proceedings before the Supreme Court should not become a ground to further destabilise the State," observed the bench. It also questioned the Manipur High Court order directing the state government to recommend to the Centre the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list, saying such power is only with the President. The apex court was hearing a plea filed by the BJP MLA of Manipur challenging the Manipur High Court order saying that the Meitei community is not a tribe and has never been recognised as such. The petition further stated that the order directing the state government to recommend a tribe for the Scheduled Tribes List falls solely within the jurisdiction of the State, and not the High Court. On March 27, the High Court directed the State to consider the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list. The appeal filed against the High Court order stated that the order is entirely illegal and ought to be quashed. "The High Court ought to have realised that it was a political problem in which the High Court had no role to play and the political disputes had to be resolved politically. By getting into the political area and making a categorical order that the State government is directed to submit a recommendation for the inclusion of the Meiteis in the Scheduled Tribe list to the Central government, the High Court ambiguously and in all probability inadvertently gave rise to strong misgivings and worries and tensions among the tribals," the appeal stated. The appeal also sought a stay on the High Court's order. Another PIL by a tribal outfit sought an SIT probe into the violence which has gripped the northeastern State. The violence in Manipur between the Hindu Meiteis and the tribal Kuki, who are Christians, erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3. Violence has gripped the entire state for several days and the Central government had to deploy paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control. (ANI)
Tajpuria was allegedly murdered in Tihar Jail by the members of a rival gang. The entire incident was captured on the CCTV installed in the prison.

Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Snigdha Sarvaria granted four days of police custody of accused Deepak Dabas alias Teetar, Rajesh Bawana, Yogesh Tunda and Ariyaz Khan to the Special Cell of Delhi Police.

The accused have been remanded in police custody till 12 May. The accused were taken to the office of the Special Cell in heavy police security.

The accused were produced through video conferencing from court lock up.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Special Cell sought seven days remand of the accused persons. He submitted that the accused were required to be interrogated in the alleged offence.

"Custodial interrogation is required to unearth the conspiracy of murder of Tajpuria," the ACP submitted.

The accused were produced before the court on a production warrant. Special Cell got issued a production warrant for the accused persons.

During the hearing advocate Rohit Pathak orally submitted before the court that some people were threatening family members of Deepak Dabas and demanding Rs 20 lakh, otherwise, he would be encountered by the Delhi Police.

The counsel sought a direction for the security and safety of Deepak Dabas alias Teeter.

The local police registered an FIR in the incident. Later on, the investigation was transferred to the Special Cell.

It is said that the murder was committed to take revenge on Jitender alias Gogi who was shot dead in Rohini Court in September 2021 by the members of the Tillu Tajpuria gang.

Now Delhi Police Special Cell will interrogate the accused persons in the Rohini office for four days. (ANI)
Addressing a press conference on the last day of the campaign in Karnataka, the senior BJP leader said a "double-engine government" is essential for the development of the southern state.

"Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah did roadshows and rallies. I am confident that we (BJP) will win 135 seats in the Karnataka Assembly election. Congress is a drowning ship, its leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra won only 2-3 seats in Uttar Pradesh even after campaigning for 4-5 months," Yediyurappa said.

Yediyurappa said Congress leaders cannot match the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is working restlessly for the country's development.

He said that the southern state needs a development-oriented government.

Yediyurappa listed the achievements of the BJP government at the Centre.

He said India is now the fifth largest economy in the world and is on course to becoming the first or second-placed economy in 20-25 years.

He said the BJP does not discriminate on the grounds of caste or religion.

Talking to reporters, Yediyurappa said the BJP has the total support of the Lingayat community despite efforts of Congress "to create problems".

"Hundred per cent Lingayat Community is with us. Congress is trying their level best to create some problems but almost all Lingayats Swamis are with us and told me that they will support BJP," he said.

Karnataka will go to Assembly polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. (ANI)
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Monday slammed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) for not addressing any of the concerns raised by him, substantively after his visit to the Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and its feeder pondage area, read an official release. According to the release, Delhi LG, V.K. Saxena had written to Chief Minsiter Arvind Kejriwal, after his visit to the Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and its feeder pondage area on March 9, flagging the pathetic and unhygienic conditions at the site. The DJB in its report dated April 6, has neither addressed the issue of the quality of water being supplied from the Wazirabad and Chandrawal WTPs, nor has it submitted any immediate plan for the desilting of the pondage area supplying raw water to these WTPs. It has also not detailed any action that it intends to take against the erring officials, stated the releaseReacting to the report submitted by the DJB through the Chief Secretary to whom a copy of the note written to the CM had been marked, Saxena noted that directions mentioned in his note were not addressed in the actual letter and spirit. "I have perused the submissions on pre-pages and at the outset deem it appropriate to observe that the shortcomings and directions mentioned in my note have not been addressed in actual letter and spirit," he noted. "Despite my clear direction to expedite the de-silting or cleaning of the Pondage area at Wazirabad Barrage, the timelines drawn not only reflect a lack of urgency but also do not fix accountably upon those concerned. There is also no mention of the plans for upgradation of the WTP, which was desired to be taken on priority," he added.The LG in his previous note to the Chief Minister on March 11, after his visit to the WTP and the pondage area seek urgent intervention from CM Kejriwal into the state of affairs prevalent at WTP and the feeder Pondage area. "It is with a sense of deep distress that I seek your urgent intervention into the state of affairs prevalent at the Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and the feeder pondage area at Wazirabad Barrage, that feeds the Wazirabad WTP and the Chandrawal WTP," he said.Seeking clear answers and actions, Saxena underlined the quality and kind of water supplied to the people of Delhi and said that they are playing with the health of Delhi people by supplying them with contaminated water. Saxena said, "It would be pertinent here to ask in the interest of Delhi, as to, What kind of water is being supplied to the people of Delhi? What is its quality and is it really potable? Aren't we playing with the health and life of the people of Delhi by supplying them with contaminated water?" "Is this justified in the National Capital of the country? Can Delhi afford to lose out on 9,12,500 million gallons of water only because DJB did not desilt/clean its storage ponds? questioned Delhi LG. Saxena further also demanded strict action against the officials for gross dereliction of duty and criminal misconduct. He said, "In view of the above, while the immediate starting of desilting/cleaning of the pond area and upgradation of the WTP needs to be undertaken, it would also be essential that strict action is initiated against officials responsible for this gross dereliction of duty and criminal misconduct." "It is also recommended that visits aimed at supervision and monitoring be undertaken on a regular basis by authorities so as to identify shortcomings and rectify the same in a concurrent manner," he added.However, despite the urgency of the issue that involved the threat to the health and lives of lakhs of people dependent on water supply from the Wazirabad and Chandrawal WTPs, the Action Taken Report by the DJB has been found to be extremely shoddy and perfunctory, and does not even address the basic issues apart from not fixing responsibility and taking action against the guilty officials. The LG has accordingly written in his note to the Chief Secretary, "It is again emphasised that providing potable drinking water of adequate standard to the Citizens of Delhi is the foremost responsibility of DJB, which should never be compromised. Any dereliction in this regard should be immediately identified and exemplary action should be initiated against the erring officers/officials." "However, from the conclusions/ suggestions/ actions proposed in the instant report, it is discerned that my concerns have not received the expected response. The reasoning adduced in respect of the grave lapses observed during my inspection is unacceptable to say the very least," he added.Demanding action against the erring officials, the LG has noted, "I am of the considered view that major penalty proceedings are required to be initiated against all the officers named in the report submitted by DJB." "Further, the role of other officers who were issued memorandums be re-examined to ascertain any negligence on their part and action be taken," he added. He has also asked for an Action Taken Report on the matter to be furnished to him within 15 days. (ANI)
The Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal banned the film 'The Kerala Story' citing "maintenance of peace" and to avoid incidents of "hatred and violence" in the state. West Bengal became the first state to ban the film, which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage. There's a continuing political outcry around the movie even as it has been made tax-free in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh. On the decision to ban the film, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, "It is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and maintain peace in the state." Also raking up the 'Kashmir Files', a film on the alleged genocide of Kashmiri Pandits, which ran to packed houses despite evoking protests from the Opposition, the Bengal CM said, "What was 'The Kashmir Files'? It was meant purely to humiliate a particular section of society. What is 'The Kerala Story'? It is a distorted story." The CM directed the state chief secretary to remove the movie from all theatres where it is being screened. Reacting to the ban, Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the producer of the film, said they will pursue legal options against the decision. "If state government won't listen to us, we will explore legal avenues. However, whatever course we take will be based on legal advice," Shah told ANI. Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film evoked sharp opposition from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who called it "RSS propaganda". Congress MP from Kerala, Shashi Tharoor accused the makers of "misrepresenting" Kerala. Campaigning for the BJP in poll-bound Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, too, weighed in on the controversy, accusing the Congress of standing with terrorists. 'The Kerala Story' stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in lead roles. A massive controversy erupted around the film after its trailer claimed that 32,000 women from Kerala had gone missing and joined the terrorist group ISIS. However, in the face of protests, the contentious figure in the trailer was later withdrawn. Its trailer description was later changed to a story of three women from Kerala. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Bar Council of India (BCI) and Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) to file affidavits to clarify their stand on the notification issued by the BCD requiring Aadhaar and voter card of Delhi for enrollment of the law graduate. Justice Prathiba M Singh was apprised by the counsels for BCI and BCD that they will reconsider the issue. Thereafter the bench directed them to file affidavits clarifying their stand on the notification. Meanwhile, the bench in the interim directed the BCD to provisionally enroll the law graduates who do not have an Aadhaar and voter card of Delhi on the basis of any other address proof of Delhi. The matter has been listed on May 23 for further hearing. On the last hearing on April 20, the High Court issued notice to the Bar Council of Delhi on a plea challenging its notification requiring law graduates to provide Delhi's Aadhaar card and voter card as address proof for enrollment with it. The said notification was issued on April 13 by the BCD. The court had also impleaded the Bar Council of India and directed it to file a report on what is the situation in other States for enrollment with State Bar councils on the next date hearing. The petition has been moved on behalf of Rajani Kumari, a law graduate from the University of Delhi and a resident of Gaya, Bihar. Advocate Lalit Kumar had submitted before the bench that the notification is arbitrary. The April 13 notification issued by the Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) wherein it has been notified that "All those law graduates, who wish to apply for Enrolment with the Bar Council of Delhi shall be required to attach a copy of Aadhaar card and voter ID card of Delhi/NCR (National Capital Region) along with their respective application and other documents and theAadhaar card and voter ID card must bear the address of Delhi or NCR. Henceforth no enrolment shall be done without a copy of Aadhaar card and voter ID card bearing the address of Delhi /NCR." The petition moved by advocates Lalit Kumar and Shashank Upadhyay stated that the BCD has deliberately excluded the law graduates, who are domiciled outside Delhi-NCR and come from far away parts of the country to practice law in Delhi in hopes of better prospectives and a wider horizon of serving the country, from eligibility for enrolment with the Bar Council of Delhi. It was also stated that Article 14 of the Constitution of India guarantees the right to equality before the law and equal protection of the law to all persons. The requirement of Aadhaar card and voter ID card with the address of Delhi or NCR discriminates against those law graduates who do not have an address in Delhi or NCR, it stated. This creates an arbitrary classification between law graduates based on their residential address, which is a violation of Article 14, it further stated. It was further submitted that Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression, the right to assemble peaceably and the right to form associations or unions. The requirement of Aadhaar card and voter ID card with the address of Delhi or NCRimposes an unreasonable restriction on the exercise of these rights. It hinders the ability of law graduates from other states to join the legal profession in Delhi or NCR, and it limits their ability to form associations with other legal professionals in these areas, the petitioner contended. It was also submitted that changing the address on voter ID card would essentiallymean that a law graduate belonging to a place of domicile other than Delhi-NCR will have to give up their voting rights in their original place of domicile solely on the basis of their employment in a different constituency. It was further submitted that the state cannot compel a citizen to give up their voting rights in their original place of domicile solely on the basis of their employment in a different constituency. In a democratic system, voting is a fundamental right of every citizen, and this right cannot be taken away or restricted without due process of law, the petition said. It was also said that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to vote,irrespective of their place of residence or employment. Article 326 of the Constitution of India specifically states that "the elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assembly of every State shall be on the basis of adult suffrage," the petition said. Adult suffrage means that every citizen who is above the age of 18 years has the right to vote. Therefore, if a citizen is working in a different constituency, they can still exercise their right tovote in their original place of domicile by registering as a voter and casting their vote on the day of the election. Therefore, the impugned notification dated April 13 issued by the BCD is violative of the petitioner's right to vote, regardless of their place of residence or employment, the petition said. (ANI)
The properties of the accused were located at Hari Nagar locality under Jiwaji Ganj police station limits in the district.

During this, the police station in charge and a large number of police forces along with two Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), City Superintendent of Police (CSP), Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) were deployed on the spot.

The accused were identified as Jitendra Gurjar and Dharmendra Sisodiya. They recently, on May 4 shot a youth in broad daylight in the Freeganj area of Ujjain.

Ujjain Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Bhuria said, "Following the instruction of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and police headquarters, continuous action is being taken against the criminals in the state. In this series, today the municipal corporation and police administration jointly demolished the illegal construction of the houses of notorious criminals, who recently committed a crime in the city, situated under Jiwaji Ganj police station limits."

Along with this, the police also visited the houses of the criminals who are active in the city, took information about their illegal properties and warned them about police action, he added.

According to the police, seven cases have been registered against the accused Dharmendra Sisodia and six cases against Jitendra Gurjar in the past. (ANI)
According to an Indian Army statement, a specially trained Avalanche Rescue Team along with medical teams was involved in evacuating stranded tourists.

"Rescue teams are equipped with emergency medical kits and all stores required for early rescue, are carrying out the necessary relief work," it read.

The relief work was in progress as NH1 continued to remain closed due to multiple minor avalanches.

Earlier on Sunday, the Jammu Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) issued an avalanche warning for Baramulla for the next 24 hours.

"Avalanche with Low Danger Level is likely to occur above 3,000 metres above sea level over Baramulla district in the next 24 hours," read an official statement.

The people living in the area were advised to take precautions.

"People living in these areas are advised to take precautions and avoid venturing into the avalanche-prone areas till further orders," it read. (ANI)
China completes delivery of trains for Indonesia's high-speed railway

Xinhua) 08:53, May 08, 2023

GUANGZHOU, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The delivery of all trains for Indonesia's Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway has been completed with the loading of the last three sets of bullet trains at Qingdao Port in east China for shipment to Indonesia, according to the Chinese shipping operator.

The COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers Co., Ltd., headquartered in Guangzhou, said on Saturday that the high-speed electric multiple units (EMUs) include 11 trains and one train for comprehensive railway testing. The company developed a customized solution for the delivery of the trains, which were shipped in batches beginning in August 2022.

The high-speed railway line is a landmark project under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), connecting Indonesia's capital Jakarta and another major city Bandung. With a design speed of 350 km per hour, the railway will cut the journey between Jakarta and Bandung from over three hours to around 40 minutes.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda on Monday, lashed out against the grand old party over former Congress president MP Sonia Gandhi's 'sovereignty' remark calling it a result of the party's "mental bankruptcy". Speaking to ANI, JP Nadda said, "It is the result of the Congress party's mental bankruptcy. To say anything for the sake of votes is condemnable. Sonia Gandhi is an MP, and so is Kharge. An MP takes the oath of the Constitution. If someone is talking about Karnataka's sovereignty, it means they are disrespecting the thousands and lakhs of people who contributed to the country's freedom struggle". "They have always stood with the 'Tukde Tukde' gang. Those who stand with such people will use such words," he added. Taking a jibe at former MP Rahul Gandhi, he said "Rahul Gandhi visits the states only for political tourism. He visits when elections come. While we (BJP) stay among people round the clock all through the year. That is the difference between BJP and Congress leaders," he said. Amid a row over the Karnataka Congress, manifesto mentioning the ban on Bajrang Dal, BJP chief JP Nadda said, "They themselves brought Bajrang Bali in the elections. They themselves mentioned the ban. When they said, people showed them the result. If you use such words to appease someone and decide that the other side should not react, it can't happen". He further said that BJP is working on the mantra of 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas' across the country. "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, The party is taking on the country forward on the path Constitution. On the other hand, the Congress party has always divided society. They have always supported the forces who stand against the nation," he added. The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark to form the government is 113 seats. The BJP is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority. Notably, Karnataka is the only State in the South where BJP is in power. Campaigning for the 10 May elections in Karnataka is at its peak with multiple rallies, public meetings and interactions across the State. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a mega roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday. He also held public meetings at Nanjangud in Mysuru and Shivamogga. (ANI)
"A thorough judicial inquiry along with a meticulous investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kerala Police will be conducted to bring those responsible for the Tanur boat accident to justice. An ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh will be provided to the kin of each of the deceased," tweeted Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting held in Tanoor on Monday. The judicial commission will comprise technical experts to examine the technical aspect of the capsized boat.

"It needs to be seen whether the precautionary measures established after the suggestions of various investigations reports of similar tragedies are followed up here," the Chief Minister said in a Facebook post.

"It has been decided to conduct a judicial inquiry into the Tanur tragedy. It is envisaged that the judicial commission will also comprise technical experts to look into technical issues related to the boat," he added.

He further said that the police investigation will be conducted by forming a special investigation team. Malappuram District Police Chief will head the investigation team.

Twenty-two people, including a police officer, were killed after an overloaded double-decker tourist boat capsized at Parappanangadi on Sunday.

Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Vijayan visited the Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram where survivors of the boat capsize incident were admitted.

Meanwhile, Kerala Human Rights Commission registered a case in connection with the boat tragedy.

Malappuram district collector and district police chief and Port chief surveyor of Alapuzha have to submit a report to the Commission. (ANI)
Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Monday condemned the West Bengal government for banning 'The Kerala Story' movie in the state, and accused the opposition parties of doing "appeasement and vote bank politics". "Their (opposition) face is getting exposed. They are doing appeasement and vote bank politics. West Bengal has done immense injustice by banning the movie. Recently only, a girl was raped and murdered in Bengal. Everybody saw how her body was dragged by the police," the Information and Broadcasting Minister told ANI. "I want to ask what are you (Mamata Banerjee) getting by standing up for such terrorists. What do you get by promoting such an ideology? Such actions provide support to ISIS and other terrorist forces," he added. He further said that 'The Kerala Story' is an attempt to bring the truth forward in front of the people. "The Kerala Story is an attempt to bring forward the truth. The movie leaves you stunned. It shows how Indian daughters are trapped in the name of love, and recruited in terror organisations. The girls are taken showing heaven but are instead sent to hell," the Union Minister said. Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film has triggered a massive political row with various leaders reacting to the upcoming movie. The controversy surrounding the film started when its trailer claimed that 32,000 women from Kerala had gone missing and joined the terrorist group ISIS. This statement triggered a heated political debate and many leaders questioned the veracity of the claim. "And the makers of the movie have tried to expose this conspiracy. If a terrorist conspiracy like this is taking place in a big state like Kerala. It is the responsibility of everyone to come together in support of this movie, so that not just we are able to defeat such forces," Thakur further said. Earlier in the day, Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led West Bengal government banned 'The Kerala Story' movie citing "maintenance of peace" and to avoid incidents of "hatred and violence" in the state. West Bengal has became the first state to ban the film, which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage. There's a continuing political outcry around the movie even as it has been made tax-free in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh. "This to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, to maintain peace in the state," Mamata Banerjee said while addressing a media conference. "What is 'The Kashmir Files'? it is to humiliate one section. What is 'The Kerala Story'?... It is a distorted story," she added. Mamata Banerjee said, "What is this 'Kerala files'? I am not supporting CPIM, they are working with BJP. Instead of me, it was their duty to criticise the film. I want to tell Kerala CM that your party is working with BJP and that same party is showing Kerala files - a distorted story. Now I am told they are preparing the Bengal files. First, they defamed Kashmir, then Kerala, and now West Bengal". The Chief Minister has directed the Chief Secretary to remove the movie from the screens where it is running. Reacting over the decision, Vipul Shah, the producer of the movie has said they will pursue legal options against the decision. "If state government won't listen to us we go through legal terms what possible things we should do that but as a legal way," he told ANI. 'The Kerala Story' stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in the lead roles. Faced with backlash the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description. (ANI)
A kidnapping case accused, who was a minor and escaped from a police station, was found dead at a railway track in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district, a police official said on Monday. The minor accused had fled from Lasudia police station in the city on Saturday night and his body was found on the railway track on the same night. Two police personnel were suspended and a magisterial inquiry was ordered into the matter. Speaking to ANI, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) Rajesh Vyas said, "Last month on April 27, two cases were lodged for the missing of a minor girl and a minor boy by their respective family members. Two days ago, on May 6, the Lasudia police found the minor youth and the minor girl. After that, the police took the minor boy into custody on the charge of kidnapping the girl." On Saturday night, the accused escaped from the custody of Lasudia Police and his body was found on the railway track in the city on the same night. When the police checked the CCTV cameras, it was found that the accused had reached the railway track alone, he said. After the incident, the family members of the deceased staged a demonstration and also pelted stones at the Lasudia police station on Sunday. After which the police control the situation and drive them away from the police station, the officer added. Nonetheless, the protesting family members alleged that the girl's family members killed the boy and threw his body on the railway track. Additional DCP Vyas further said that an assistant sub-inspector Munish Pandey and constable Narendra Mandelia were suspended in connection with the minor accused's escape from the police station and Additional Commissioner of Police (ACP) Sonakshi Saxena was investigating the matter. On the other hand, a judicial inquiry has been ordered into the matter of the minor accused's body found at railway track, Vyas added. Besides, the police have registered a case of rioting against about 100 people, including the family members of the minor accused, for staging a protest and pelting stones at the Lasudia police station, Additional DCP added. (ANI)
Indian Youth Congress president BV Srinivas on Monday approached the Supreme Court challenging the Gauhati High Court order rejecting his anticipatory bail plea in an FIR filed against him by expelled woman party member for allegedly causing her mental agony. A bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala agreed to list the case on May 15 for hearing. Senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, appearing for Srinivas, mentioned the case for early listing saying the leader was being hounded in Assam. The Gauhati High Court on May 5 rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Srinivas in a case lodged by the former Assam Youth Congress president accusing him of causing mental agony to her. The High Court had also refused to quash the FIR. In her complaint, the woman alleged that Srinivas persistently harassed her mentally through sexist remarks and slang words. On her complaint, an FIR was registered to book Srinivas under Sections 352 (assault or criminal force), 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 354A (1)(iv) (sexual harassment) of the Indian Penal Code. The woman had claimed that Srinivas had heckled her, held her arm, pushed and pulled her and used slang words during the party's recent plenary session in Raipur. He had also threatened to ruin her career in the party if she complained against him, she alleged. The alleged offence had occurred in Raipur, Chhattisgarh which was beyond the territorial jurisdiction of the Dispur police station, where the case was filed and Assam Police had no jurisdiction to investigate or register an FIR for an offence which allegedly took place in Chhattisgarh, Srinivas said. The Congress had issued show cause notice to the woman and later expelled her from the party's primary membership for six years for anti-party activities. (ANI)
Coming out hard against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the ban on 'The Kerala Story' movie, Leader of Opposition and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Suvendu Adhikari on Monday, asked if the CM sympathises with the terrorist organisation ISIS. Speaking to the reporters, Adhikari said, "As far as I know, 'The Kerala Story' is based on the religious indoctrination in Kerala focussing on how women are radicalised by extremist religious clerics. This film articulates how women were converted in Kerala and were sent to countries like Afghanistan, Yemen and Syria to fight the radical terror outfit ISIS". The BJP leader also slammed Mamata Banerjee and asked her to resign if she is not able to maintain law and order in the state. "This movie is against ISIS and its modus operandi. Does CM Mamata Banerjee sympathize with ISIS? Why would law and order get disrupted in the state if this movie is screened? The decision to ban the movie should be immediately withdrawn, or else CM should resign if she's not able to maintain law and order," he said. Adhikari also cited the Kerala HC order which refused to stay the screening of film in the state, adding that veteran actor Shaban Azmi has also come out in support of the movie. Earlier in the day, Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led WB government banned 'The Kerala Story' movie citing "maintenance of peace" and to avoid incidents of "hatred and violence" in the state. West Bengal has become the first state to ban the film, which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage. There's a continuing political outcry around the movie even as it has been made tax-free in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh."This to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, to maintain peace in the state," Mamata Banerjee said while addressing a media conference. "What is 'The Kashmir Files'? it is to humiliate one section. What is 'The Kerala Story'?... It is a distorted story," she added. Mamata Banerjee said, "What is this 'Kerala files'? I am not supporting CPIM, they are working with BJP. Instead of me, it was their duty to criticise the film. I want to tell Kerala CM that your party is working with BJP and that same party is showing Kerala files - a distorted story. Now I am told they are preparing the Bengal files. First, they defamed Kashmir, then Kerala, and now West Bengal". The Chief Minister has directed the Chief Secretary to remove the movie from the screens where it is running. Reacting over the decision, Vipul Shah, the producer of the movie has said they will pursue legal options against the decision. "If state government won't listen to us we go through legal terms what possible things we should do that but as a legal way," he told ANI. 'The Kerala Story' stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in the lead roles. Faced with backlash the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh assembly speaker Girish Gautam said that a three-day long National Legislators Conference Bharat 2023 is going to be held from June 15 in Mumbai in which MLAs across the country have been invited. Over 1600 legislators across the country, including around 100 MLAs from Madhya Pradesh have been registered so far to participate in the program, Gautam told reporters on Monday. He further said that there would be 80 sessions on different subjects and topics during the conference to be held from June 15 to June 17. The different legislators from various states will discuss together and make a gist of the conclusion that would come out after the discussion. After that they will bring it in the form of a proposal and try to circulate it in the entire country and to implement that in the assemblies across the nation, the MP assembly speaker added. When asked about how many legislators will be taking part in the conference, he said, "All the legislators, which is around 4300, have been invited across the country to participate in the conference. So far over 1600 legislators have been registered. There is still a month left for the conference, the number may increase." This type of event is being organised for the first time in the country. There are also efforts to connect the legislators emotionally, Gautam also wrote on Twitter. (ANI)
The Delhi government launched an anti-dust campaign in the national capital on Monday. The campaign will run till June 8. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Monday chaired a review meeting with all the departments regarding the campaign. "Air pollution in Delhi is improving steadily due to the stringent steps taken by the Delhi government under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The government's efforts have resulted in a decline of 30 per cent in air pollution levels in Delhi from 2016 to 2022-23," Gopal Rai said. With the initiation of the Real-Time Source Appreciation Study by the Delhi government, the minister said it has become clear that the factors contributing to pollution vary in winter and summer. During winter, pollution is largely caused by fluctuations in the weather. This includes stubble burning, firecrackers, exhaust from vehicles and open fires. On the other hand, in summer, pollution mainly occurs due to dust, mountains of garbage and fire in bushes, he said. "Conversely, during summer, pollution primarily results from dust, heaps of waste, and wildfires. Consequently, to address the issue of pollution during the summer months, the Chief Minister unveiled a 14-point summer action plan on May 1. To bring further improvement in air pollution in Delhi, as a part of summer action plan, our government is starting the anti-dust campaign in Delhi for the next one month from May 8, ie from today," Rai said. Under the anti-dust campaign, he said 235 patrolling teams of 629 personnel and 165 patrolling teams of 433 personnel at night from 13 departments have been deployed for inspection all over Delhi. These teams will operate round the clock to observe and avert occurrences of dust pollution in Delhi. Their report will also be shared with the environment department and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) from time to time. The environment minister also stated, "Dust pollution arising from construction sites proves to be very harmful for the health of the people. To address this issue, the construction and demolition portal was introduced. All construction sites that cover an area of 500 sq m or more are required to self-register on this portal. Presently, there are 750 registered sites on this portal." He said the aim of this campaign is to ensure that all active construction and demolition sites are registered on the portal. DPCC will examine the self-assessment reports of all registered sites on the portal. For this, instructions have been issued to the departments to continuously monitor the construction sites. "To achieve this, the relevant departments have been instructed to monitor construction sites regularly. If construction sites violate any rules, the department will take appropriate action as per the NGT directions," the minister added. He said that 84 mechanical road sweeping (MRS) machines, 609 water sprinklers and 185 mobile anti-smog guns have been deployed across Delhi to prevent dust pollution. Regarding dust pollution, earlier there was a rule to install anti-smog guns only on construction sites above 20,000 sq m. Now, on the basis of the new rules, it has been made mandatory to install anti-smog guns at the construction site of an area of 5000 sq m and above, Rai stated. As per the directions, one anti-smog gun at the construction site measuring 5,000-10,000 sq m, two anti-smog guns at those construction sites measuring 10,000-15,000 sq m, three anti-smog guns at 15,000-20,000 square metre construction sites and at least four anti-smog guns at construction sites above 20,000 sq m will be mandatory. Through a special campaign, Rai said the sources of air pollution in all 13 hotspots will be detected on the basis of real-time apportionment study on a daily basis. The designated officers in those locations will be notified of the primary sources of pollution in their vicinity. This information will be disseminated to facilitate prompt remedial measures. He further added that 70 integrated mechanical road sweeping (MRS) machines and 250 integrated water sprinkler machines will be procured soon to prevent road pollution. (ANI)
According to an official release, in Kedarnath Dham, after 2 pm snowfall started and in the evening there was heavy snowfall.

Despite the snowing, the devotees queued up for darshan with umbrellas.

SP Rudraprayag Dr Vishakha Ashok has also appealed to the passengers to continue their journey by keeping the weather in mind for better safety.

"Pilgrims who will undertake the Kedarnath Dham Yatra to are requested to assess the weather and start their yatra only then," said SP Vishakha Ashok.

Besides Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh's Lahaul and Spiti also received heavy snowfall.

On Friday, the registration of pilgrims for the Kedarnath yatra was stopped till May 8, due to the possibility of bad weather in Kedarghati.

"Registration for the visit to Kedarnath Dham will be banned till May 8. There is a possibility of bad weather in Kedarghati for the next three to four days. In view of this, the government has taken this decision," stated an official release.

According to the records of the tourism department, 1.26 lakh pilgrims have already registered for the yatra on May 10. Till May 4, 1.23 lakh devotees had visited Kedarnath Dham. (ANI)
The meeting has been called just a day ahead of the polling for the assembly elections in Karnataka.

The 224-seat Karnataka Assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark needed to form the government is 113.

The BJP is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority.

Notably, Karnataka is the only State in the South where BJP is in power.

Campaigning for the 10 May elections in Karnataka ended on Monday after multiple rallies, public meetings and interactions across the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a mega roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday. He also held public meetings at Nanjangud in Mysuru and Shivamogga. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court recently permitted Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) Rajya Sabha MP Amarendra Dhari Singh to travel to various countries for business purposes for a period of six months. The court has also suspended the Look Out Circular (LOC) during the period of the next six months starting from May 1 till October 31. Justice Dinesh Kumar Singh on May 4 allowed the application after hearing the counsel for Singh and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The application is allowed. LOC of the petitioner is suspended for a period of six months starting from 01.05.2023 till 31.10.2023, read the court's order. The court has directed that the petitioner shall inform the CBI about the reasons and the purpose of his visits. The petitioner shall disclose the travel itinerary, his place of stay in Moscow (Russia), Dubai (UAE), Minsk (Belarus), Prague (Czech Republic), London (United Kingdom) and any other country or region and all his contact details to the Investigating Officer K.Pradeep Kumar, the bench directed. The high court said that the petitioner shall return back to India within the stipulated period of six months. During his travel the petitioner shall not contact any other person involved in the investigation carried out by the respondent and specifically, Amol Awasthi, Anupam Awasthi and Vivek Gahlaut and will not tamper with any other evidence, said the high court. Amarendra Dhari Singh is accused of the fertilizer scam. An FIR was registered by the CBI. Subsequently, an ECIR was registered by the Enforcement Directorate also. Advocate Madhav Khuran appeared on behalf of Amarendra Dhari Singh. He submitted that the applicant has been granted permission to travel abroad seven times on earlier occasions. This is the eighth application moved by the applicant. The application moved through advocate Trisha Mittal has sought an order permitting the Petitioner to travel to Moscow, Dubai, Belarus, Prague, London and any other country or region between the next six months for business development and meetings with fertilizer manufacturers and suppliers to liaison, negotiate and obtain future work orders and contracts and to attend international conferences. The plea has also sought an order directing the CBI to issue appropriate directions to the competent authorities to suspend the LOC issued against the petitioner at all ports of entry and exit in the country, for the period of six months between May 01, 2023, to October 31, 2023. On 01.04.2013 Nishikant Dubey had filed a complaint alleging corrupt practices undertaken by U.S. Awasthi, the Managing Director of IFFCO with the Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizer, which in turn forwarded the said complaint to the CBI on 14.06.2016. Finally, on 17.05.2021, CBI registered the FIR, the plea said. It is admitted fact that between 01.04.2013 to 14.06.2016 and between 14.06.2016 to 17.05.2021 despite the wide coverage that the complaints received in the public domain, the petitioner travelled overseas and always returned to India, it added. (ANI)
Ahead of the May 10 Karnataka Assembly elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday appealed to people not to vote for the ruling BJP in the state. "My only appeal to brothers and sisters in Karnataka is that please vote for stability and development. I appeal that please do not vote for BJP. They are dangerous," Mamata said. Notably, Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress and BJP are at loggerheads with the latter making inroads in West Bengal. The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark to form the government is 113 seats. The high-voltage campaign for the May 10 Assembly elections in Karnataka came to an end on Monday as all three major political parties in the state -- BJP, Congress and Janata Dal-Secular - have the last chance to woo the voters. The BJP is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority. Significantly, Karnataka is the only state in the South where BJP is in power. With top leadership including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah campaigning for the party, BJP put all its might to charm the voters. The Congress on the other hand worked hard to wrest power from the BJP that is striving to break the 38-year-old pattern of alternating governments and retain its power in the state. Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, held various roadshows, rallies and elections campaigns. With the war of words between top guns of all the major political parties, the campaigns of the election of the southern citadel saw allegations and accusations flying thick and fast. Several issues of the state were promised to be solved. However, the issue of Bajrang Dal, which was mentioned in the Congress manifesto, took centre stage in the political campaigning. The Congress party last week in its manifesto for the May 10 elections said it will take "decisive action" as per law including banning organisations like Bajrang Dal, the Popular Front of India and others. The Congress manifesto said the party is committed to taking firm and decisive action against individuals and organisations spreading hatred among communities on grounds of caste and religion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at the Opposition over the issue, saying, "The Congress has become a slave of appeasement and vote-bank politics." Addressing an election rally in Tumakuru, Prime Minister Modi said, "Congress has now started objecting to saying Jai Bajrangbali. Congress has become a slave to appeasement and vote-bank politics. Congress can never work for the welfare of Karnataka. It can never develop Karnataka." PM Modi wrapped up his two-day mega roadshow on Sunday with a stretch of 10 km roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday. As part of Congress campaigning for the elections, Rahul Gandhi, who is on a visit to Karnataka to campaign for his party, held an interaction with gig workers and delivery partners of app-based delivery services in Bengaluru on Sunday. The former Lok Sabha MP interacted with delivery workers at a hotel in Bengaluru. (ANI)
Ansari has also given notice to the UP government to appeal against this sentence, and the appeal can be filed soon.

The Ghazipur MP/MLA Court convicted the BSP leader in a kidnapping and murder case pertaining to the killing of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Krishnanand Rai and sentenced him to four years imprisonment. A fine of Rs 1 lakh was also imposed on Afzal.

Pertaining to this, the gangster-turned-politician also lost his Lok Sabha membership.

Security was heightened ahead of the verdict by an MP-MLA court in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur in a kidnapping and murder case against gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari, and BSP MP Afzal Ansari on Saturday. (ANI)
A session court in Bhopal on Monday awarded the death penalty to a 28-year-old man in connection with murder of a 22-year-old student. During the hearing on Monday, additional session judge Dharmendra Tada found the convict guilty under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 302, 201, 489A, 489B, 489C and 489D. Judge Tada awarded death penalty to the convict in IPC Section 302, life imprisonment separately in Sections 489A, 489B and 489D and 7 years of Rigorous Imprisonment (RI) in Section IPC 201 and 489C and imposed a fine of Rs 1000 in each section. The convict has been identified as Rajat Saini (28), a resident of Raghav Garh in Guna district. The student whom the convict killed was identified as Aman Dangi (22), a resident of Doraha village in Sehore district and he was studying by staying in Bhopal. Assistant District Prosecution Officer (ADOP) Varsha Katare told ANI, "The case is related to the incident that occurred on July 14, 2022. The convict Rajat Saini, who was serving a life sentence for child abduction in Gwalior jail, came out on parole. He did not want to go back to jail again and with the intention to prove himself dead in the eyes of the law, he called Aman Dangi, who lives in his neighbourhood in Bhopal, to his house and killed him with a hammer." "To hide the identity of Dangi, the convict burnt Dangi's face with petrol so that it might appear that he (the convict himself) was dead. Saini committed the crime under Khajuri Sadak police station limits in the state capital. In this case, the court has awarded death sentence and life imprisonment in three sections, 7 years of RI in various sections," Katare added. (ANI)
Delhi Water Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj condemned the LG VK Saxena's statement over the Wazirabad Water treatment plant and said that this is politically motivated instructions to the Delhi Jal Board, the LG office is interfering with the functioning of the DJB despite it being out of his jurisdiction. The Water Minister said, "The LG V.K Saxena is well aware of the fact that like various departments of the Delhi Government, DJB is grappling with an artificial shortage of funds created for some officers. The problem has persisted for many months since officials of the finance department have been asking for voluminous information back and forth." "DJB has not even received complete funds allocated by the government for the year 2021-22 due to never-ending Research and development being done by Principal Secretary Finance from September 2022 at the cost of public service," he added. Saurabh Bhardwaj also said that it's difficult to believe the way in which Principal Secretary Finance is sitting over the budget which is duly approved by Cabinet and Legislative Assembly. He said, "This conduct has been brought to the knowledge of LG by Legislative Assembly Committees, senior officials of the department in meetings as well through public forums. It is hard to believe how Principal Secretary Finance is sitting over the budget which is duly approved by Cabinet and Legislative Assembly for welfare schemes of Delhi government." The Water Minister has highlighted how the LG is riding on boats with the media to take credit for the work of cleaning Yamuna initiated by the Elected Government but is never interested in resolving issues under his jurisdiction, be it law and order, inefficiencies of DDA or Services matters. "Delhi Legislative Assembly has requested LG multiple times to take action against Principal Secretary Finance who is creating roadblocks in the works of Delhi Government. It is hard to believe that one officer could defy instructions from the Elected Government without support from Hon'ble LG who is in charge of Services," he said. Various high-level meetings have been done at the level of Minister (Finance), Minister (Water), Principal Secretary Finance, CEO, DJB and other officers of DJB and Finance department in order to release funds to DJB but the Principal Secretary seems to be hell-bent on disrupting services of DJB. "LG office on the one hand is sending regular PRs as if he is running the DJB administration, on the other hand, his inaction against erring officials is creating a financial crisis inside Delhi Government. It can be interpreted as support of the LG to the erring officials", the statement further says. The DJB has prepared a detailed scheme for in situ treatment of polluted water at Wazirabad Pond which is regularly discharged by Haryana. Similarly, other schemes prepared for Yamuna Cleaning are stuck due to intentional delay by the Finance Secretary in releasing funds to DJB. Saurabh Bhardwaj said, "The LG is trying to distract attention from the issue of Sand Mafia of Haryana and Industrial Waste Dumping through DD-2 and DD-8 in Haryana. On March 8, 2023, evidence was shared with the media houses through a press conference by the Minister that illegal sand mining is rampant in over 32 locations in Haryana and industrial waste is dumped by Haryana into the Yamuna by DD-2 and DD-8." "In order to divert the attention, LG visited Wazirabad WTP and scolded officials as if the Industrial dumping of waste was done by DJB officials. It seems like these press releases are tricks and gimmicks of LG to distract the attention of the media from the illegal sand mining issue which is still going on as evident from the latest pictures of May 5, 2023," he added. "LG is working as a BJP representative rather than the Administrative Head of Delhi. He has not made any effort with Haryana to release Delhi's share of water nor has he escalated the issue of sand mining and discharge of Industrial Effluent from Haryana. Sand mining is still ongoing in the active river bed," further read the statement. Recently, in an affidavit filed by a Central Government agency called National Mission of Clean Ganga (NMCG) in the matter of OA No. 581 of 2022, NMCG has submitted in court that BJP-run Haryana Government is carrying out the illegal activity of Mining in violation of Central Government order dated 07.10.2016, namely: the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order, 2016. "It seems like LG is trying to protect the sand mafia operating under the patronage of the BJP government of Haryana by putting blame on DJB officers who are working day and night with limited resources to provide the city with clean water. Rather than blaming DJB officials, LG should take action against those who are trying to strangulate the functioning of the different departments of the Delhi Government," said the Water Minister. "Vidhan Sabha Committees clearly spelt out the role of current Principal Secretary Finance installing works of Mohalla Clinics, hospitals, Social Welfare pensions to senior citizens, Yamuna Cleaning etc. LG is misusing the authority of the monitoring committee given by NGT by issuing such letters based on factually incorrect position," he added. Further concluding his statement Bhardwaj said, "The LG has no role in drinking water supply as it is a state subject and he is misusing the authority by writing such letters and demotivating officers who are working tirelessly for the department under given constraints." (ANI)
Amid the heightened tensions over the violence in Manipur, the students from Telangana who were studying in the state were brought back to Hyderabad by special flights on Monday. The parents and relatives of the students reached the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Shamshabad, Hyderabad to receive their children. Telangana Minister for Labour and Employment, Malla Reddy addressing the media said, "The students were very afraid as there were around five blasts near the campuses. The students never imagined they will reach back so soon. We arranged two flights to bring back all the Telangana students without causing them any trouble. We have also arranged around 10 buses to take the students to their respective villages". "Our Chief Secretary has talked to his counterpart in Manipur to bring back the children safely. We will also discuss with Chief Minister KCR and KTR to make sure that their academic year doesn't get wasted. The parents also need not worry about it. Around 106 students have come now. We are coming to know that more 180 students are there. They will also reach here by evening as they are in Kolkata airport. Everyone is safe," he added. Nagaraj, a student who came from Manipur said that the situation continues to remain intense at his campus having around 180 students. "There are firings and blasts there. Poison was mixed in the water supply. There is a curfew there. We thought that it is not serious in the beginning. However, things turned out very intense. We faced issues in regard to food and water. CRPF, security guards, Army and others helped us and protected us," he said. Mallesh, the father of a student said that the state government took the initiative to bring the students early. "My son Sai Kiran is studying at Manipur NIT. The Telangana government has also took special care and also arranged food in Manipur. It also arranged a flight to bring them back. The children are safe. We hope that the government will further continue to help us," he said. A girl whose brother came back from Manipur said that a bomb blasted right beside his hostel. The sister of a student coming back from Manipur says, "My brother is coming back. His name is Sandeep. He is studying in IIIT Manipur. We have been receiving calls from him since the first day when the incidents started. He was concerned about the increasing number of bomb blasts there. He also told that a bomb had blasted right beside their hostel. There are also very low signals for mobiles there. We were very much tensed. However, now the government has responded very well," she said. Meanwhile, Air India extended a full fee waiver on rescheduling or cancellation of tickets for all flights to or from Manipur till Monday. The decision was taken in view of the situation in the northeastern state. The airline started to offer the concession on May 4. Several state governments, including those in the Northeast, are working on plans to evacuate their citizens out of the violence-hit Manipur. Internet services remain suspended in Manipur in view of the ethnic clashes. Some relaxations to the curfew, which were introduced on Sunday to enable people to purchase items of daily need, continued as well on Monday. Violence erupted amid protests against a high court order asking the state government to consider including the majority Meitei community in Manipur in the list of Scheduled Tribes. Amid the demand of the Meitei people for ST status, a rally was organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) Manipur on Wednesday, which later turned violent. (ANI)
The CB-CID has registered the case against Balveer Singh and his subordinates at Kallidaikurichi police station under Ambasamudram based on a complaint filed by Surya of Zaminsinagapetti.

The issue came to light after a video tape of Surya narrating the extreme means of torture inflicted, including plucking the teeth of the accused using iron pliers, emerged.

He had earlier retracted from his statement and deposed before the Cheranmahadevi Sub-Collector, Mohammed Shabeer Alam that his teeth got damaged as he had fallen down accidentally. The Tamil Nadu government then deputed senior IAS officer, P.Amudha and Surya deposed before her that his teeth were plucked by the IPS officer.

CB-CID inspector Ulagarani, who is the investigating officer in the case, has registered an FIR against Balveer Singh under Sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt using dangerous weapons), 326 (voluntarily causing dangerous hurt with dangerous weapon) and 506(1) (criminal intimidation) of the IPC.

Other than Balveer Singh, FIRs were registered against former inspector of Kalladiakurichi police station, Rajakimari, constables Joseph and Ramalingam who are all placed under vacancy reserve by the Tamil Nadu government after allegations of torture surfaced.

--IANS aal/vd

( 233 Words)

2023-05-08-19:22:05 (IANS)
Around 300 students from Bihar studying in the Central Agricultural University, the IIIT Manipur, and the NIT Manipur are trapped after the massive violence erupt in the state last week claiming the lives of more than 50 persons.

The Bihar government has received a list of 150 students with their mobile numbers who want to come home from Manipur. Hence the Chief Secretary talked to his Manipur counterpart and asked him to ensure their safe passage. Subhani also asked for maximum security in the educational institutions where students are living and studying there.

Sources have said that the Manipur government may lift curfew for some hours which would be used for their rescue.

Students from Patna, East Champaran, West Champaran, Saran, Nalanda, Bhojpur, Begusarai, Samastipur, Katihar, Khagaria, Madhepura and some other districts are studying in different universities of Manipur.

--IANS ajk/vd

( 185 Words)

2023-05-08-20:12:03 (IANS)
The division bench of Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya, while hearing a PIL in the matter, directed CBI to submit the details in the form of a report by May 15.

The bench specially inquired whether the central agency is probing the entire recruitment process of primary teachers in 2014 or that part which deals with the illegal recruitment of 269 candidates.

Earlier, the high court's single-judge bench of Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay had ordered CBI inquiry into a number of cases relating to recruitment of teaching and non- teaching staff in state-run schools, which included primary teachers.

Even the CBI recently informed the Supreme Court that it is conducting a probe into the entire recruitment process for primary teachers.

--IANS src/arm

( 164 Words)

2023-05-08-20:22:03 (IANS)
An advocate in Assam was found guilty of contempt of court after making disparaging statements about a judicial officer, including commenting on her attire and equating her with a mythical demon. The Gauhati High Court sentenced him to six months in prison. However, the court also suspended his sentence by laying down some conditions. But the advocate must submit a bail bond to the court. In a recent judgement, the division bench of Justices Kalyan Rai Surana and Devashis Baruah forbade the lawyer Utpal Goswami from standing as an advocate in any court subject to the High Court's jurisdiction for 15 days. The Contempt of Courts Act of 1971's Section 14 accuses the counsel of criminal contempt. The two-judge bench observed, "The respondent-contemnor has not only made unfounded vitriolic attack on the integrity and impartiality of the learned judicial official concerned, but has also embarked upon character assassination of the said judicial officer. Moreover, the petitioner had also attacked this Court by making disparaging remarks on the selection process of judicial officers by questioning the sanctity of the selection process." Goswami had earlier submitted a petition, which was still pending before the Court of Additional District Judge in Assam's Jorhat district. Goswami mentioned in the petition, "The additional district judge has been presiding the court by wearing jewellery like a model in ramp and that each and every occasion she tried to overpower/depress the advocates by citing unnecessary case laws and sections of statutes without hearing the advocates, and tries to control the courtroom." The Gauhati High Court bench also believed that the comments would inspire other lawyers around the nation to insult and threaten judges anytime a decision is made that goes against their interests. However, the two-judge bench also provided a lifeline to the lawyer. They suspended the sentence of imprisonment under the condition that if he gets convicted again for contempt of court in the next four years, then he would have to serve the jail term. --IANS tdr/bg ( 349 Words) 2023-05-08-20:28:02 (IANS)
In run up for the crucial Karnataka Assembly polls, the Congress campaigned aggressively in the southern state with party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra holding 85 public meetings and road shows. Kharge, who was elected as the party President last year, camped in Karnataka, his home state, from April 15 onwards and addressed 36 public meetings, including one with former party chief Sonia Gandhi in Hubballi. Kharge, 81, who is also the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, addressed four press conferences in the state ahead of the polling in the state. Meanwhile, former party chief Rahul Gandhi, who was disqualified as a Lok Sabha in March this year following conviction in the defamation case by a Gujarat court, also addressed 23 public meetings and road shows in the state and highlighted the alleged corruption under the BJP government in the southern state. He kicked off his Karnataka campaigning from Kolar, where he made the Modi surname remark on April 13, 2019 while campaigning for party candidate and former Union minister K.H. Muniyappa, who eventually lost to BJP candidate S. Muniswamy as the BJP won 25 of the 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. Besides Rahul Gandhi, his sister and party General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi too addressed 26 public meetings and road shows in the state and targeted the ruling BJP government at the centre and in the state. During her campaigning she also slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on several occasions by highlighting the alleged corruption in the state. According to party leaders, the Congress' five guarantees announced in its manifesto were also highlighted by all the leaders in the state. The Congress has announced Gruha Jyothi (200 units of free electricity), Gruha Lakshmi Rs 2,000 monthly to every woman head of the family, Anna Bhagya-10 kg of food grains of their choice (among rice, ragi, jowar, millet) to every person in a BPL family, and free travel to all women in regular Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation buses. Polling for the 224 member assembly is scheduled on May 10 and counting of votes will take place on May 13. --IANS aks/vd ( 379 Words) 2023-05-08-20:52:04 (IANS)
The Election Commission on Monday issued a notice to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge asking to provide clarification and take rectification measures over former party chief Sonia Gandhi's "Karnataka sovereignty" remarks. In the notice to the Congress chief, the EC said: "I am directed to refer to a complaint dated May 8, 2023 submitted by the leaders of Bharatiya Janata Party, namely, Bhupender Yadav, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Tarun Chugh, Anil Baluni and Om Pathak to the Commission regarding a tweet which appeared on the official Twitter handle of the Congress on May 6, 2023 at 09:46 PM." "CPP Chairperson Sonia Gandhi Ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity," the poll panel cited the tweet as saying. It said that in the complaint made by the BJP, it is alleged, inter-alia (as quoted): "Karnataka, is a very important member state in the union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous and pernicious consequences. ""In view of the above, you are requested to clarify and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson CPP," the EC said. The EC cited that according to the complaint made by the BJP, the tweet is violative of the mandatory oath undertaken by the political parties under section 29A (5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 at the time of registration. Earlier in the day, a delegation of BJP had moved the poll panel against remarks by Sonia Gandhi on 'sovereignty of Karnataka', which has triggered a massive political storm in the run-up to the May 10 Assembly election. The complaint filed with the EC by the BJP reads, "Definition of sovereignty is an independent nation. India is a sovereign country and Karnataka is a proud part of it. Describing this statement as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Sonia Gandhi has violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement". Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders targeted the grand old party over the remark. On Saturday, Sonia Gandhi had addressed a rally in Hubbali district of poll-bound Karnataka. Polling for Karnataka assembly is scheduled on May 10 and counting of votes will take place on May 13. --IANS aks/vd ( 449 Words) 2023-05-08-21:04:05 (IANS)
In light of the recent violent killing of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya inside the prison, senior officers of the ITBP and the Tamil Nadu Police, who are currently stationed at Tihar Jail, held a meeting with Sanjay Beniwal, the Director General of Delhi Prisons. The meetings were prompted by a letter from Sanjay Beniwal to the heads of security agencies as part of the prison's security arrangements. According to a jail official, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Bhanwar Singh, met DG Prisons to discuss various issues, including security concerns at Tihar. Additionally, H.M. Jayaram, the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Tamil Nadu Police, also met the DG Prisons to discuss the matter, said the official. On Monday, the Delhi High Court sought a response from jail authorities on the steps taken to prevent such an incident. Justice Jasmeet Singh was dealing with a plea moved by Tajpuriya's father and brother seeking Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'s probe of the murder and also protection for them. On watching the incident, which was captured on the CCTV cameras installed inside the jail, Justice Singh said that it was seen that Tajpuriya was taken out of his cell and was stabbed to death. According to video footage, gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was reportedly attacked with improvised weapons by four members of the Gogi gang inside Tihar Jail on Tuesday morning. Despite being alive and in the custody of prison security personnel, the accused attacked Tajpuriya a second time. As per reports, Tajpuriya was stabbed over 90 times by the assailants, who are reportedly members of the Jitender Gogi gang. Sunil a.k.a. Tajpuriya (33), a resident of Tajpur Kalan on the outskirts of Delhi, was lodged in Tihar Jail under tight security measures. Gangster Satinder Singh Brar, also known as Goldy Brar who's believed to be in hiding in Canada, has claimed responsibility for the attack on Tajpuriya, citing revenge, according to an unverified social media post. --IANS ssh/pgh ( 341 Words) 2023-05-08-21:04:06 (IANS)
After winding up the election campaign in Karnataka, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi flew into Hyderabad to train guns on BRS government for not keeping its promises, setting the tone for Congress campaign for upcoming Telangana Assembly elections. Addressing her maiden public meeting in Telangana, she targeted the KCR-led government for failing to fulfill poll promises and realise the dreams of Telangana martyrs. Recalling that it was her mother and then Congress chief Sonia Gandhi who delivered Telangana state without bothering about the political damage the party would suffer, Priyanka Gandhi appealed to people to bring Congress to power in the elections scheduled in next few months. Realising the youth charter of the party, the Congress leader said if the party failed to deliver on the promises made in it, people can hold the party accountable and remove it from power after five years. The Congress organised the massive public meeting at Saroornagar stadium, focusing on the problems of youth and the unemployed. Priyanka Gandhi appealed to people to become politically conscious and choose a party which can take the state forward and give them a secured future. Stating that youth have the biggest responsibility, she cautioned the people if they failed to take a politically conscious decision, the loss would be theirs. She also cautioned people against parties misleading them in the name of religion and caste. "They provoke you at the time of elections and do nothing for the next five years. They come again after five years to whip up your sentiments and win the election again," she said. In an apparent dig at KCR, as Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao is popularly known, Priyanka Gandhi said that the Telangana state became a reality not because of any one leader but because of the movement of all sons and daughters of Telangana and hundreds of martyrs who laid down their lives. She said those who sacrificed their lives for Telangana wanted jobs for youth, rights for future generations, remunerative prices for farmers and development of all districts at par with Hyderabad. She recalled that water, funds and employment was the slogan of Telangana. She remarked that only those ruling the state and those close to them have got water, funds and jobs. Priyanka Gandhi said her family made many sacrifices for the country. She said Sonia Gandhi understood what people of Telangana wanted. "It was not an easy decision. It was a difficult one. If she had thought about the political loss, it would have been difficult to take the decision," she said. Attacking the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), Priyanka said its leaders behave as if Telangana is their 'jagir' (fief). She said 3 farmers end their lives in Telangana every day and claimed that 8,000 farmers committed suicide in last nine years. She said 2.5 lakh farmers still have a debt burden of Rs 1.5 lakh each. She said the KCR government failed to fulfill its promise of job to every house, unemployment allowance of Rs 3,000 and to fill 2 lakh vacancies. "In last 9 years, there was no recruitment in 12 state universities. Private universities have been established which loot the people," she said. The Congress leader said the Telangana State Public Service Commission (TSPSC) paper leak affected thousands of students who had written exams after hard work. She alleged that no action was taken against those involved in the paper leak and to support the students who were affected by cancellations of exams. Responding to state Congress president Revanth Reddy calling her 'New Indiramma', Priyanka Gandhi said whenever people call her Indiramma, she feels a huge responsibility. "People still remember the leader who laid down her life in 1984. She was an honest leader dedicated to the country," she said. The youth charter released at the meeting promised Rs 4,000 as unemployment allowance. Priyanka Gandhi assured the youth that unlike the BRS, which did not fulfill the promise of Rs 3,000 unemployment allowance, the Congress will keep its promise. The Congress also promised to fill 2 lakh vacancies in government departments, annual job calendar and a government job each and pension for the families of Telangana martyrs. --IANS ms/vd ( 709 Words) 2023-05-08-21:22:02 (IANS)
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on May 7 met his counterparts from the US as well well as the UAE and also the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia. The meeting was held "to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world," according to a statement issued by the White House. The statement further said that US NSA Jake Sullivan also held bilateral meetings with the crown prince, Doval and the UAE's NSA Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan to deliberate on "bilateral and regional matters". "During the meeting, they (Saudi Arabia) discussed means to strengthen relations and ties between the three countries (India, UAE and the US) in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region," state-run Saudi Press Agency was quoted as saying. --IANS ans/vd ( 160 Words) 2023-05-08-21:24:02 (IANS)
Urging people to vote for the BJP in urban local body polls, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, said that BJP will take Ayodhya to the pinnacle of development. "If a Ram devotee from Ayodhya wins the municipal elections, it will leave a positive impression; however, if those who fired shots at Ram devotees win, it will send a very negative message," Yogi said while advising voters to vote responsibly. The polling for the second phase of the urban local body polls will take place on May 11 to elect representatives for the posts across 760 local bodies in the state. The counting of votes will take place on May 13. Addressing a programme on Monday in favour of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) mayoral candidate Girish Pati Tripathi at Maniramdas Cantonment, the CM said, "Ayodhya is ours, and we also have a collective responsibility towards it. We will take Ayodhya to the pinnacle of development. A strong board must be formed for overall development because Ayodhya is under the spotlight of the nation and the world." The Chief Minister went on to say that when a strong board is constituted, development will proceed quickly. Today, India is seen differently around the world. The world now looks to PM Modi during a time of global crisis. In such a situation, we have to associate ourselves with the changing India. The CM stated that in six years, UP has been successful in changing its perception. He added that in six years, if he had gone somewhere, he would not have had a positive impression of UP saints, but in today's world, UP is being respected everywhere, and the saints are getting respect. The Chief Minister continued and said, "We have all continuously participated in the Deepotsav program since 2017. The PM's presence the previous year elevated it to new heights. Deepotsav takes us toward Tretayug. This year, Ram Navami alone saw 35 lakh pilgrims arrive in Ayodhya. More than one crore devotees will arrive when the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram is finished in January." The Chief Minister said that since it is the capital of 'Suryavansh', "We are going to turn it into a solar city. Earlier, we formed a municipal corporation in Ayodhya so that it could be developed as a smart and safe city. Then the name of the district and commissionerate was changed. Now the international airport is being built. You will now be able to travel anywhere in the nation or the entire world from Ayodhya. After this election, the work of the survey will start." "We are going to start waterways from Ayodhya. Now, large ships are arriving in Kashi. No less water is present in Saryu ji than in Ganga ji. It is only necessary to channelize the river's water. This is being worked on, and as a result, tourism and other opportunities will grow," CM Yogi added. (ANI)
The 2,000 odd Manipuris, who sought refuge in Assam's Cachar district in the wake of large-scale violence in their state, will return to their home within the next two days, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Monday. Addressing a press meet here, he said: "The situation is improving in Manipur. I have talked with the district administration in Cachar. People who have taken shelters in camps there will return to their homes in the next couple of days." After the violence broke out in many parts of Manipur, many people came to the Cachar district. The administration arranged their shelters at a few government schools in the Lakhipur sub-division area. Food and other necessary commodities were provided to them by the district administration. According to the Cachar administration, at least 2,000 people traversed the border and took shelter there. Meanwhile, Assam DGP Gyanendra Pratap Singh said: "We have sent a police team comprising of four officers headed by an IGP-level officer three days ago to bring back people of Assam stranded in Manipur. But most of the people residing there are not willing to come back. However, we have arranged transportation for those willing to return." He also said that Assam Chief Minister earlier directed the police to provide necessary assistance to people who were stuck in the violence-hit state. --IANS tdr/vd ( 238 Words) 2023-05-08-21:58:04 (IANS)
A new research attempted to determine the understanding of Earth's crust by testing and ultimately eliminating one popular hypothesis about why continental crust is lower in iron and more oxidized compared to oceanic crust. The iron-poor composition of continental crust is a major reason why vast portions of the Earth's surface stand above sea level as dry land, making terrestrial life possible today. The study, published in Science, uses laboratory experiments to show that the iron-depleted, oxidized chemistry typical of Earth's continental crust likely did not come from crystallization of the mineral garnet, as a popular explanation proposed in 2018. The research was conducted by Elizabeth Cottrell, research geologist and curator of rocks at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, and lead study author Megan Holycross, formerly a Peter Buck Fellow and National Science Foundation Fellow at the museum and now an assistant professor at Cornell University. The building blocks of new continental crust issue forth from the depths of the Earth at what are known as continental arc volcanoes, which are found at subduction zones where an oceanic plate dives beneath a continental plate. In the garnet explanation for continental crust's iron-depleted and oxidized state, the crystallization of garnet in the magmas beneath these continental arc volcanoes removes non-oxidized (reduced or ferrous, as it is known among scientists) iron from the terrestrial plates, simultaneously depleting the molten magma of iron and leaving it more oxidized. One of the key consequences of Earth's continental crust's low iron content relative to oceanic crust is that it makes the continents less dense and more buoyant, causing the continental plates to sit higher atop the planet's mantle than oceanic plates. This discrepancy in density and buoyancy is a major reason that the continents feature dry land while oceanic crusts are underwater, as well as why continental plates always come out on top when they meet oceanic plates at subduction zones. The garnet explanation for the iron depletion and oxidation in continental arc magmas was compelling, but Cottrell said one aspect of it did not sit right with her. "You need high pressures to make garnet stable, and you find this low-iron magma at places where crust isn't that thick and so the pressure isn't super high," she said. In 2018, Cottrell and her colleagues set about finding a way to test whether the crystallization of garnet deep beneath these arc volcanoes is indeed essential to the process of creating continental crust as is understood. To accomplish this, Cottrell and Holycross had to find ways to replicate the intense heat and pressure of the Earth's crust in the lab, and then develop techniques sensitive enough to measure not just how much iron was present, but to differentiate whether that iron was oxidized. To recreate the massive pressure and heat found beneath continental arc volcanoes, the team used what are called piston-cylinder presses in the museum's High-Pressure Laboratory and at Cornell. A hydraulic piston-cylinder press is about the size of a mini fridge and is mostly made of incredibly thick and strong steel and tungsten carbide. Force applied by a large hydraulic ram results in very high pressures on tiny rock samples, about a cubic millimetre in size. The assembly consists of electrical and thermal insulators surrounding the rock sample, as well as a cylindrical furnace. The combination of the piston-cylinder press and heating assembly allows for experiments that can attain the very high pressures and temperatures found under volcanoes. In 13 different experiments, Cottrell and Holycross grew samples of garnet from molten rock inside the piston-cylinder press under pressures and temperatures designed to simulate conditions inside magma chambers deep in Earth's crust. The pressures used in the experiments ranged from 1.5 to 3 gigapascals -- that is roughly 15,000 to 30,000 Earth atmospheres of pressure or 8,000 times more pressure than inside a can of soda. Temperatures ranged from 950 to 1,230 degrees Celsius, which is hot enough to melt rock. Next, the team collected garnets from Smithsonian's National Rock Collection and from other researchers around the world. Crucially, this group of garnets had already been analyzed so their concentrations of oxidized and unoxidized iron were known. Finally, the study authors took the materials from their experiments and those gathered from collections to the Advanced Photon Source at the U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois. There the team used high-energy X-ray beams to conduct X-ray absorption spectroscopy, a technique that can tell scientists about the structure and composition of materials based on how they absorb X-rays. In this case, the researchers were looking into the concentrations of oxidized and unoxidized iron. The samples with known ratios of oxidized and unoxidized iron provided a way to check and calibrate the team's X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements and facilitated comparison with the materials from their experiments. The results of these tests revealed that the garnets had not incorporated enough unoxidized iron from the rock samples to account for the levels of iron-depletion and oxidation present in the magmas that are the building blocks of Earth's continental crust. "These results make the garnet crystallization model an extremely unlikely explanation for why magmas from continental arc volcanoes are oxidized and iron-depleted," Cottrell said. "It's more likely that conditions in Earth's mantle below continental crust are setting these oxidized conditions." Like so many results in science, the findings lead to more questions: "What is doing the oxidizing or iron depleting?" Cottrell asked. "If it's not garnet crystallization in the crust and it's something about how the magmas arrive from the mantle, then what is happening in the mantle? How did their compositions get modified?" Cottrell said that these questions are hard to answer but that now the leading theory is that oxidized sulfur could be oxidizing the iron, something a current Peter Buck Fellow is investigating under her mentorship at the museum. This study is an example of the kind of research that museum scientists will tackle under the museum's new Our Unique Planet initiative, a public-private partnership, which supports research into some of the most enduring and significant questions about what makes Earth special. Other research will investigate the source of Earth's liquid oceans and how minerals may have served as templates for life. This research was supported by funding from the Smithsonian, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy and the Lyda Hill Foundation. (ANI)
A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plane flew in Indian airspace for almost ten minutes after it failed to land at the Lahore Airport owing to heavy rain. The plane travelled 125 kilometres over the Indian Punjab and was in Indian airspace for almost ten minutes before turning back, The News.com.pk reported. The incident occurred on May 4, at 8 pm, when the PIA flight PK248 returned from Muscat. The pilot attempted to land at the Allama Iqbal International Airport but could not due to the heavy rain. Acting upon the instructions from the air traffic controller, the pilot went on a go-round. However, while returning, the pilot lost his way due to heavy rain and low altitude. The aircraft entered the Indian airspace from the Badhana police station in Punjab at 8:11 pm, flying at an altitude of 13,500 feet with a speed of 292 km/hr. The plane turned back from Naushehra Pannuan within 40 km, passing through the cities of Taran Sahib and Rasulpur in Indian Punjab, The News.com.pk reported. While flying in Indian airspace, the captain took the plane to a height of 20,000 feet. The aircraft flew in Indian airspace for seven minutes and entered Pakistani territory near the village of Jhugian Noor Muhammad in Indian Punjab. The flight again entered the Indian territory, flying over the villages of Kasur in Pakistani Punjab, The News.com.pk reported. Three minutes later, at 8:22 pm, the plane re-entered Pakistani airspace from the village of Lakha Singhwala Hithar in Indian Punjab. The aircraft was at an altitude of 23,000 feet, flying at a speed of 320 km/hr. After entering Pakistan's airspace, the plane flew to Multan, passing over Hujra Shah Muqeem and Dipalpur. The plane travelled 120 kilometres in the Indian territory for almost ten minutes. (ANI)
The suspect in a mall shooting in Allen, Texas that left eight people dead and injured seven others on Saturday (local time) has been identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, CNN reported citing a senior law enforcement source familiar with the investigation. Eight people were killed and seven others were injured after the shooting in Allen on Saturday. The gunman was killed by an Allen Police Department officer who was present in the mall on an unrelated call, according to police. Investigators believe that the gunman was acting alone. After being shot, the gunman appeared to be lying on the ground with an AR-15-style firearm nearby, as per the news report. The senior law enforcement source said that Garcia had at least one other weapon on him in addition to the AR-15-style weapon found near him when he was fatally shot in front of the mall. Police have also recovered multiple weapons in his car. Mauricio Garcia had been living in some form of transient lodging, CNN reported citing the law enforcement source. The suspect had been living in an extended stay hotel in Dallas, CNN cited The Dallas Morning News report. Garcia had been living in some form of transient lodging, according to the law enforcement source. Authorities are investigating whether the gunman was motivated by right-wing extremism, CNN cited a senior law enforcement source familiar with the investigation. Probing authorities have not determined a specific motive behind the mass shooting in Allen. However, the source said the deceased suspect was found with an insignia on his clothing that read "RWDS," CNN reported. Authorities believe RWDS may stand for "Right Wing Death Squad". Meanwhile, Allen Police Department in a press release said, "As of Sunday morning, May 7, Medical City McKinney was treating four patients, one in fair condition and three in critical condition. One patient was transferred to Medical City Plano, a Level I Trauma Center, and is currently listed in fair condition. One patient was transferred to Medical City Children's Hospital and is in fair condition. A ninth patient was treated at a different area hospital." In the press release, Allen Police Department said that they are coordinating with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Allen Premium Outlets on a plan to reunite people with any vehicles left at the scene. It said that updates regarding the effort will be shared later. Allen Police Department said that the Texas Department of Public Safety is now handling this investigation. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden again urged Congress to pass legislation banning assault weapons and enacting universal background checks after the Texas shootout, according to a statement released by the White House. "Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe," Biden said in the statement. He said that federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to investigate the shooting incident in Texas. Biden said that he has directed federal agencies to provide all needed support. Giving details regarding the shooting incident, Biden said, "Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar." He stated that American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year. Biden further said, "More than 14,000 of our fellow citizens have lost their lives, credible estimates show. The leading cause of death for American kids is gun violence." In the statement, he noted, "Since I signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law and took two dozen executive actions to stem the tide of gun violence, we have made some progress. States are banning assault weapons, expanding red flag laws and more -- but it's not enough. We need more action, faster to save lives."(ANI)
As many as 27 people died after a fire broke out in a small gold mine in southern Peru on Sunday, in the country's single deadliest mining accident in more than two decades, CNN reported citing the local government. In a statement, the local government said a short-circuit sparked the fire in the early morning hours of Saturday in the southern region of Arequipa. "It's been confirmed by the Yanaquihua police station, there are 27 dead," local prosecutor Giovanni Matos told local television on Sunday. The Peruvian Council of Ministers expressed solidarity with the families of miners who died after a fire broke out in the shaft of the Yanaquihua mine in Arequipa, as per the CNN report. Peruvian Council of Ministers tweeted in Spanish tweeted, "We express our solidarity with the families of the miners who died after a fire in the shaft of the Yanaquihua mine in the Arequipa region." Images on local media and on social media showed dark plumes of smoke pouring out of the site. Peru's Presidency in a statement on Twitter said that the ministries have been working to rescue and transfer the bodies, as per the CNN report. Further, the Peruvian government will provide all the necessary support to the regional government and the Municipality of Condesuyos. Peru's Presidency tweeted, "We express our condolences to the relatives and the people of Arequipa for the death of the 27 miners, an event that occurred in the Yanaquihua sector, Condesuyos province in Arequipa." It further said, "The ministries @MininterPeru and @MindefPeru have been working since the beginning of this tragedy to rescue and transfer the bodies. As a Government, we will provide all the necessary support to the regional government and the Municipality of Condesuyos in these moments of pain." Peru is the world's top gold producer and second-largest copper producer. According to data from Peru's Ministry of Energy and Mines, the incident is the single deadliest mining accident since 2000, CNN reported.(ANI)
Tribesmen on Sunday held a protest in the Parachinar area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram district against the killing of eight people in separate firing incidents last week and warned to start a protest movement against the government if the killers were not punished, demanding immediate arrest of the murderers, the Dawn reported. Protesters belonging to the Turi Bangash tribe marched on foot to the Parachinar Press Club. The protest comes after eight people, including five teachers, were killed in separate incidents of firing in Parachinar on May 4. While addressing the protesters, tribal leaders Syed Muhammad, Syed Akhlaq Hussain, and others said that killings were being called a land dispute, however, Turi Bangash tribesmen did not have a land dispute with anyone, as per the Dawn report. The tribal leaders called on the provincial government to lodge cases against the employees who were present in the school at the time of the killings. The tribal leaders said that they will start a protest movement if the killers were not punished. Criticising the policy of the education adviser and secretary, the tribal leaders said that the education department officials did not bother to even attend the funerals of the teachers who were killed, as per the news report. Turi Bangash tribe in a press release said that the information regarding the Parachinar killings reported by the media and the administration was contrary to the facts. They demanded the immediate arrest of the police constable present on duty at the school that day, the headmaster and the class four employees on duty. Turi Bangash tribe said that an investigation should be started after the arrest of the headmaster, police constable and class four employees, as per the Dawn report. Meanwhile, a peace jirga was held at Governor Cottage Parachinar to bring the situation back to normal in the Kurram district. The jirga decided to take several measures regarding sustainable peace in Kurram. Pakistan's Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Sajid Turi, Kohat Division Commissioner Syed Muhammad Ali Shah, Kohat Deputy Inspector General of Police Sher Akbar Khan, Brigadier Shahzad Azim, Deputy Commissioner Syed Saiful Islam Shah and other officials attended the jirga. At least eight people, including five teachers, were killed in separate incidents of firing in the Parachinar area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Kurram district on May 4, Dawn reported. Upper Kurram District Police Officer (DPO) Muhammad Imran said that a teacher was killed in the first incident and seven in the school shooting. He added that those killed at the school included four teachers and three drivers. He said the first shooting incident occurred on a road near the Shalozan area while the second was at Teri Mengal School. (ANI)
Nepal government has initiated the demolition of the Kalanki-Koteshwar road section under the ring road, constructed with the Chinese government's financial assistance, EPardafas reported. According to EPardafas, four years after the completion of its construction, the basement has sustained damage and is now slated for demolition and rebuilding. As per the road department's statement, the demolition of the road in the Kalanki-Balkhu section has already commenced following the "basement failure". As per head of the road division office in Kathmandu, Narayan Prasad Nihure, it has been informed that the black sheet used for the construction of the road is facing issues such as flowing, cracking and breaking, resulting in the road being demolished and rebuilt. As the Chinese government has already provided the necessary funds, the financing responsibility for the construction of the road will now be taken up by the Nepalese government, with support from the World Bank. The project aims to construct around one kilometre of road from Khasibazar to Balkhu with this assistance. Nihure explained, "When the basement was damaged, it resulted in damage to the black sheet as well. We are planning to address the various issues such as pressing, splitting, and cracking of the black sheet. Once we have resolved these issues, we will proceed with the installation of a new base to pitch again." According to him, there was a significant "base failure" in the previous blacktop, making an upgrade necessary. Following a thorough quality check of the road, the department has commenced designing the necessary improvements. According to EPardafas, the Nepal government and China's Shanghai Construction Group Company Limited had on December 18, 2012, signed a road construction agreement. As per the terms of the agreement, China was responsible for extending an 8-lane, 10.4-kilometre road from Koteshwar to Kalanki over the course of five years. Despite the initial target completion date being set for early February 2019, the project experienced a two-year delay due to the earthquake and blockade. On January 28, 2019, the then Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Hou Yanqi, officially handed over the key of the road to former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli during a program at the Khumaltar-based Office of National Trust for Nature Conservation, according to EPardafas. (ANI)
The new policy of allocation comes in accordance with the directives of H.H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The Association's Executive Director Abdullah Sultan bin Khadim confirmed that the Association relies on the donations of benefactors and their charitable contributions to support deserving families, as it keeps updated on many cases of widows, orphans, needy families, and divorced women.

He went on to say that January had the highest monthly expenses at AED 1.7 million, followed by AED 1.6 million in February, AED 1.6 million in March, and AED 1.649 million in April. The highest monthly aid expenses were AED 1.618 million in April. (ANI/WAM)
A vehicle crashed into a crowd on Sunday in Brownsville, Texas resulting in the deaths of eight people, believed to be migrants and at least 11 others sustaining injuries, US-based Fox News reported. A report in The Hill cited police as saying that the collision did not appear to be accidental. The incident took place after a car ploughed into a crowd at a bus stop located close to the Brownsville's Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless people in the community. Brownsville is one of the border cities witnessing a surge in migrants trying to cross into the US from Mexico border. As per information from the Brownsville Police Department, eight victims died while 11 others were transported to hospitals in the area for treatment. The driver, who the police confirmed is a Hispanic man, has been arrested and charged, but investigations are ongoing, according to Fox News. As per officials, all eight people who died in the crash were migrants. No additional information has been released about the driver who has been taken into custody and is at present receiving medical treatment at an area hospital and is under 24-hour supervision. The suspect is also being tested for drugs and alcohol. Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. of Cameron County said the driver has been charged with reckless driving, the police are awaiting the results of a toxicology report. According to Judge Trevino, it was unclear whether the driver had lost control or had intentionally run over the group. Further investigation is ongoing. More charges are likely to be filed, Fox News reported When the attack occurred, the victims were waiting at a city bus stop next to the centre at roughly 8:30 am on Sunday. The Hill stated that seven people had died at the scene and an eigth person died on Sunday evening. According to US media, witnesses near the intersection reported seeing several bodies covered in the street, as well as a group of women praying nearby. The Hill quoted Shelter Brownsville's Ozanam Center director Victor Maldonado stating that he had reviewed the shelter's surveillance video on Sunday morning after receiving a call about the crash. "The city bus stop is across the street from the shelter and is not marked. There was no bench, and people waiting there were sitting along the curb, Maldonado said. He said most of the victims were Venezuelan men, " the publication citied. This comes a day after a gunman opened fire on shoppers at a mall in Allen, Texas, on Saturday killing eight people and wounding seven others. Police shot and killed the gunman, identified as Mauricio Garcia, 33, of Dallas Texas. According to US Census Bureau, Texas has the second-largest Indian-American population in the US as of 2020. In 2010, there were 230,842 Indian Americans in Texas, making up 0.9 per cent of the population. According to the data shared by the Open Doors, about half of the Indian students are pursuing higher education in six US states including New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Arizona. Texas had 19,382 Indian students in 2021. (ANI)
Indian-origin engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, was among the nine people killed when a gun-wielding man opened fire at shoppers outside a mall in Dallas area in the US on Saturday, The New York Post reported. Thatikonda, a project manager with a private company in Dallas and a resident of Saroornagar in Hyderabad had moved to the US from India. According to local media reports the 27-year-old was shopping with a friend at the Allen Premium Outlets in the northern suburbs of Dallas when a gunman opened fire. The assailant identified as Mauricio Garcia was later shot dead by a police officer. Thatikonda, 27, lived and worked in McKinney, Texas while her family was in India, Texas-based WFAA television station reported. According to a family representative, the Indian-origin girl was with a friend at the outlet mall when the shots rang out. Her friend who also sustained injuries is currently in stable condition at the hospital, the network was cited in the WFAA report. Thatikonda's family plans to bring her body back to India, the representative said. As per her LinkedIn profile, Thatikonda had been working in Dallas for over two years.In a statement, the Allen Premium Outlets stated: "We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country," according to The New York Post. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders." Brian E Harvey, the chief of police in Allen, Texas, said at a news conference on Saturday night that the gunman acted alone. A police officer, who was on another assignment at the mall at the time of the shooting, heard gunfire, rushed towards it, and killed the shooter. Around 3:30 pm (local time), a shooting was witnessed at the Allen Premium Outlets, an outdoor shopping centre with more than 120 retailers located about 25 miles north of Dallas, according to The New York Times. Social media users posted a video showing the shooter lying on the ground, dressed in all-black, holding a long rifle, and what appeared to be several rounds of ammo and a tactical vest. Hundreds of customers were seen leaving the area on video taken from the scene while many of them had their hands raised. The aerial footage showed at least three bodies covered in sheets outside the mall, reported New York Times. According to US Census Bureau, Texas has the second-largest Indian-American population in the US as of 2020. In 2010, there were 230,842 Indian Americans in Texas, making up 0.9 per cent of the population. According to the data shared by the Open Doors, about half of the Indian students are pursuing higher education in six US states including New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Arizona. Texas had 19,382 Indian students in 2021 (ANI)
Former Pakistan prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan on Monday claimed that the police are carrying out a crackdown on his party workers, ARY News reported. Imran Khan in a tweet said, "ICT police led by a crooked IG, are cracking down on PTI pol activity when national elections are only a few months away. However, when a movement has youth like Afzal Khan, our F10 UC Chairman, as one of our emerging young leaders, then police brutality only strengthens our resolve." ARY News recently reported that several workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have been arrested by the Islamabad Police from the rally in solidarity with the Supreme Court and Chief Justice of Pakistan. According to details, a large number of police personnel along with the prisoner van were deployed at F9 Park Islamabad. The Islamabad Police started arresting PTI workers as the rally approached the F9 park, as per the news report. The Islamabad Police arrested four PTI workers including two women. The police have vacated Jinnah Avenue from the PTI workers, according to the news report. On Saturday, PTI carried out rallies across Pakistan to showcase solidarity with the Supreme Court and Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial amid a standoff between the judiciary and the government regarding the date of the election, ARY News reported. PTI held rallies in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar and other cities of Pakistan on Saturday. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday announced that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) will hold rallies every day starting next week till May 14, Geo News reported. PTI chairman Imran Khan made the announcement while addressing workers at a rally at Lakshmi Chowk metro station in Lahore held to "support the Constitution, Supreme Court, and the chief justice of Pakistan". Imran Khan's party PTI carried out rallies in four cities - Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and Peshawar, as per the Geo News report. (ANI)
"INS Delhi & INS Satpura successfully participated in various activities during the harbour phase of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2023. The ASEAN & Indian Navy ships subsequently commenced the Sea Phase in the South China Sea which terminates today 8th May," the Indian Navy tweeted on Monday.

Meanwhile, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy who was on a three-day official visit to Singapore, on Friday interacted with INS Delhi and INS Satpura crew members.

He met with the crew of INS Delhi and INS Satpura at Changi Naval Base. He was received by Rear Adm Gurcharan Singh, Flag Officer Commanding Easter Fleet.

Kumar interacted with the crew of the two ships and wished them successful participation in the Sea Phase of the inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME).

He urged all personnel to utilise the opportunity provided by AIME to refine procedures, learn best practices and enhance interoperability with the ASEAN navies.

He also highlighted the importance of such exercises in realising our vision of SAGAR. During the visit the CNS co-officiated the inaugural ceremony of the maiden ASEAN - India Maritime Exercise (AIME) 2023, on Tuesday.

The harbour phase of the exercise was held at Changi Naval Base from May 2 to 4, 2023 and the Sea Phase from May 7-8, 2023 in the South China Sea.

The AIME-23 is aimed at promoting maritime cooperation and enhancing trust, friendship and confidence amongst ASEAN and Indian Navies, read an Indian Navy press release.

The Sea Phase from May 7-8, 2023 in the South China Sea will provide an opportunity for the participating navies to develop closer links in the coordination and execution of operations in the maritime domain.

India's first indigenously-built destroyer, INS Delhi and INS Satpura, an indigenously-built guided missile stealth frigate along with a P8I Maritime Patrol aircraft participated in the Inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise. (ANI)
The vicious cycle of discrimination and violence against minorities continues in Pakistan and extremists have been targeting and accusing them of blasphemy or being Islam's adversaries, according to Global Order. Recently, on May 4, six teachers belonging to a minority community were killed. According to Geo News, several teachers of the same school were killed in two separate incidents in Upper Kurram Tehsil of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the local police, unidentified gunmen shot the teachers in the staffroom of Government High School Tari Mangal, according to a news report. All the teachers were present in the building and were carrying out their exam duties at the time of the incident. The authorities have imposed emergency in all the hospitals in the region. The demolition of an Ahmadiyya mosque in Mirpur Khas, Sindh, and the murder of a young member of a minority group in Astore, Gilgit Baltistan, are indicative of the suppression of minority rights in the nation. Moreover, the protests by minority communities against false blasphemy cases and forced conversions outside the Lahore press club on April 26, 2023, highlight the issue of pervasive discrimination against minorities, reported Global Order. In recent years, the situation for Pakistan's minorities has only deteriorated amid political disarray and rising sectarian tensions. Frequently, the government has failed to defend minority communities or hold violent offenders accountable. In some instances, authorities have participated in the persecution of minorities, such as the government's assault on the Ahmadiyya community, which under Pakistani law is considered non-Muslim. In a 2021 report on Human Rights Practices, the US Department of State had previously expressed concerns regarding the treatment of minorities, including Christians and Hindus. Since 1974, Pakistan has prohibited the Ahmadiyya Muslim community from identifying as Muslims, which has resulted in systematic discrimination and harassment. Legislators, diplomats, and institutions in Pakistan have been accused of denying the existence of religious hatred and discrimination while concealing a veil of presumptive ignorance. Although some international organisations and officials have raised concerns about the persecution of minority communities in Pakistan, the Pakistani government has denied the allegations and accused the United States of favouritism. Concerned by the lack of attention paid to the grave human rights violations committed against the Ahmadiyya community, UN human rights experts have called for increased efforts to end their ongoing persecution, Global Order reported. There is a growing concern about the expanding influence of TTP (Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan) in Pakistan because the extremist group has a history of targeting them. The TTP is a militant organization responsible for several terrorist attacks in Pakistan, primarily against the state and security forces. However, the group has also subjected Christians, Hindus, Ahmadiyyas, and Hazaras to violence and persecution. Non-Muslims and even some Muslim sects are viewed as enemies by the TTP's extremist ideology, which is based on a distorted interpretation of Islam. The group has committed bombings, shootings, and other acts of violence against minorities, frequently targeting their houses of worship, institutions, and homes. For instance, TTP claimed responsibility for the 2013 attack on a church in Peshawar, which resulted in the deaths of over 80 people, the majority of whom were Christians, as per the report in Global Order. (ANI)
Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell on Monday said here that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is looking forward to the forthcoming Quad Summit to be held in Sydney on May 23-24 and that the Quad partners share a positive agenda for a secure, safe and sovereign Indo-Pacific that abides by the rules. "PM Albanese is looking forward to the Quad Summit on 23-24 May and so am I, because it's another great opportunity to showcase Sydney to the world. This is an interesting year for all four Quad partners. India is hosting G20, Japan to host the G7, Australia is hosting the Quad and US is hosting APEC. So, Quad partners are cooperating multilaterally to shape a better world for us all," said the Australian Envoy while speaking to ANI. "I think it's going to highlight the enduring contribution that the quad partners and countries who subscribe to their agenda have made for the Indo-Pacific. We share a positive agenda for a secure, safe and sovereign indo Pacific that abides by the rules. And we've seen whether in areas of energy, whether health security, whether infrastructure or connectivity, practical outcomes from Quad meetings that have helped countries make choices for themselves", he added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate in the Quad Summit this month that is going to take place in Sydney. During his visit, he is also going to be part of the Indian Australian Diaspora Foundation community reception which will be held on May 23 and aims to provide the large and growing Indian diaspora of Australia with an opportunity to listen to the Prime Minister. Stating clearly, that Quad is not a military alliance, the envoy said, "It has no intention of being the military alliance. It is a diplomatic relationship that had come together." Speaking further on China's aggressive stance in the Indo-Pacific, the High Commissioner stressed the fact that those who don't describe the rules have become an isolated part of the system. "The agenda and the vision we had of a secure and prosperous indo - pacific where countries and citizens are able to make choices, according to the national and personal interests, is one that I think most countries will sign up to, and by working together, both, within the Quad and then outside the quad with ASEAN, Pacific Islands Forum, we can shape that vision that we have, and that means that those people that don't describe to the rules. Those people that have different views have become just an isolated part of our system", said the Australian High Commissioner. "I think what the Quad is delivering is a better future for all people that live across indo Pacific. That's what they're trying to achieve. And that's why I think this meeting will continue to progress", he added. Speaking on India's G20 Presidency, the Australian Envoy said that it strongly supports it and is working hard to make India's G20 achieve what it wants. "One of the reasons why Australia so strongly supports India's G20 presidency is because of, its understanding of the need to deliver equitable sustainable growth across the world and India's focus on sustainability and goals. As part of its G20 presidency is Something that Australia, welcomes and something in Australia is working hard within the G20 year this year to help India achieve," he said. (ANI)
Australia strongly supports India's G-20 presidency because of its understanding of the need to deliver equitable, sustainable growth across the world, High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell said on Monday. In an interview with ANI, Farrell said, "Why the G-20 is so important this year and one of the reasons that Australia so strongly supports India's G-20 presidency is because of its understanding of the need to deliver equitable, sustainable growth across the world." "And India's focus on sustainable development goals as part of its G-20 presidency is something that Australia welcomes, something that Australia is working hard within the G-20 this year to help India achieve it," he added. Talking about the Russia-Ukraine crisis, Australia's High Commissioner said that his country is very clear and they condemn Moscow's invasion. The war is not only costing lives in Ukraine and in Russia but it's also added to the economic challenges across the world. In the recent report of Defence Strategic Review 2023, Australia stated that its country needs to expand its relationships and practical cooperation with key powers, including India, and invest in regional architecture. Over that report, Farrell said, "The great thing about our Defense Review is that it again highlights that India and Australia are the two largest coastlines that exist within the Indo-Pacific, and it calls for greater cooperation, greater collaboration, greater exercises, and greater commitment. And the good news is that's happening." "My Deputy Prime Minister who is also the Defence Minister was the first minister to visit India after the change of government, last year. He met with Rajnath Singh and committed to further ongoing exercises between both our countries, recognizing that we had a role to play in ensuring that our navies worked and defence forces worked closely together," he added. The Australian High Commissioner to India further stated that over the past 12 months, people have seen various Australian military heads coming to India. India and Australia are also seeing more joint exercises designed to improve the cooperation between both countries' militaries so that whether an emergency like the tsunami from which the Quad grew, both would be better able to look after the region, he added. (ANI)
The Chinese delegation is all set to travel to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) Gilgit-Baltistan region next week to explore the options for buying and importing cherries, Commercial Counselor, Pakistan Embassy, Beijing, Ghulam Qadir said, reported The Nation. 15 members of the delegation from China, basically Chinese buyers hailing from Xinjiang, Zhejiang and Shandong provinces as well as the Weifang area will arrive in the region on May 15, Qadir told APP. They will meet local farmers, and relevant officials and visit cherry orchards and inspect the quality of the exotic fruit, he added. Pakistan and China signed a cooperation protocol during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Beijing in November last year. Under the protocol, China will import cherries from Pakistan and help the local grower enhance production. Currently, China imports the bulk of its cherries from South American countries to meet growing demand. However, the transportation cost and time is a major predicament, reported The Nation. Qadir also said the annual demand of the Chinese market is around 350,000 metric tons but Gilgit-Baltistan produces around 5,000 metric tons of cherry per season. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is in Pakistan for Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue. During the dialogue, the Chinese foreign minister told Pakistan to overcome political differences to pave the way for economic progress, Voice of America (VOA) news reported. "We sincerely hope the political forces in Pakistan will build consensus, uphold stability and more effectively address domestic and external challenges so it can focus on growing the economy," Qin said, addressing a press briefing alongside his Pakistani counterpart, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Pakistan is facing intense political turmoil since former prime minister Imran Khan was ousted a year ago in a parliamentary vote of no-confidence. A lack of consensus between Khan's party and the 13-party ruling alliance led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding the election schedule has plunged the country into a political and constitutional crisis. The country also is mired in a crippling financial crisis. To help Pakistan revive a stalled bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and avoid default, China has provided relief by rolling over debt and parking funds there to boost dangerously low foreign exchange reserves. (ANI)
Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell said that his Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ensured that the security forces take action when the vandalism of Hindu temples occurred and also track those responsible and prosecute them. In an interview with ANI, Farrell said, "Well, Prime Minister Albanese assured Prime Minister Modi when he visited India in March that in Australia, we believe people have a right to practice their religions without interference. And Prime Minister Albanese committed to ensuring that our security forces, including our police, state police forces, take every possible action when the vandalism occurred to track down those responsible and to prosecute them." "And I'm confident that that will happen. The point I make on perhaps the broader issue is that, as my Foreign Minister said when she was here in March unofficial referendum has no legal standing in Australia and Australia continues to respect and stand by India's sovereignty and its sovereign borders," he added. In the past few months, the attacks on the Hindu temple have increased. In March, Shree Laxmi Narayan Temple in Brisbane was attacked. Earlier, in January, Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Australia's Carrum Downs was also vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti. A week before the above incident, On January 12, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Australia's Mill Park was smeared with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti. During the interview, Farrell spoke about PM Modi's upcoming visit to Australia for the Quad Summit. He said, "Well, the India-Australian relationship is at an enormous high. Indian migration to Australia is the fastest-growing migration from any other country in the world. And that's having a huge impact on our relationship. It's strengthening our trade and economic relationship. It is furthering our people-to-people links through education and through culture. It's ensuring that we're doing more in relation to defence and security." "And, of course, we're working through the quad on a whole range of issues, including climate change and clean energy. And I think all those things are now being boosted in Australia by a growing diaspora that not only opens up the eyes of Australians to opportunities in India but also reminds their friends and relatives in India of the opportunities, particularly in education, that are on offer in Australia," he added. (ANI)
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeoudi jointly inaugurated various events to commemorate the first anniversary of the entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE. Speaking at the event, Rajesh Kumar Singh highlighted how the path-breaking India-UAE CEPA, which was negotiated in just 88 days, has become a significant turning point in the bilateral economic relations between the two countries. For India, the CEPA with UAE is the first in the region and for UAE, it is their first ever CEPA. Since the entry into force of CEPA, bilateral trade between India and UAE has witnessed tremendous growth of 20 per cent when compared to the previous year. India's exports to the UAE also recorded a remarkable growth of 12 per cent, reaching USD 31.3 billion in 2022-2023. As part of the CEPA celebrations, Rajesh Kumar Singh inaugurated the Kerala Pavilion on Monday at the Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi. He held meetings with the senior leadership of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Mubadala, the top UAE investors in India. Welcoming the surge in investments from the UAE to India, Rajesh Kumar Singh invited both companies to explore new sectors for investing in India, especially the renewable and digital sectors. The UAE is currently the seventh largest investor in India with an estimated investment of USD 18 billion. Secretary, DPIIT will be inaugurating the International Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai on May 9. He will also be the Chief Guest for a multi-sectoral B-2-B event in Dubai organised by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) on 9 May. Around 100 companies from India and UAE, including representatives of various Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) are expected to participate. The "CEPA - Beyond Trade" commemorative event included food and fashion pavilions, sharing the success stories of the historic trade bonds between India and the UAE and panel discussions on future areas of cooperation. The visit of the Secretary, DPIIT to UAE is his first official trip abroad since the assumption of office in April 2023, indicating the significance India attaches to the close relationship with UAE. (ANI)
India and the United Kingdom's joint military exercise 'Ajeya Warrior' is being conducted at Salisbury Plains. The bilateral exercise is being held at Salisbury Plains, United Kingdom till May 11, according to the statement released by Defence Ministry. Ajeya Warrior is a biennial training event with the United Kingdom conducted alternatively in the United Kingdom and India, the last edition was held at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand in October 2021. Soldiers of the 2 Royal Gorkha Rifles from the United Kingdom and Indian Army soldiers from the Bihar Regiment are participating in the exercise. The Indian Army contingent arrived at Brize Norton on April 26 in an Indian Air Force C-17 aircraft with indigenous weapons and equipment. According to the Ministry of Defence, the aim of the exercise is to build positive military relations, imbibe each other's best practices and promote the ability to operate together while undertaking company-level sub-conventional operations in urban and semi-urban environments under UN mandate, in addition to developing inter-operability, bonhomie, camaraderie and friendship between the two armies, the statement read. The scope of this exercise involves a Command Post Exercise (CPX) at the Battalion level and Company level Field Training Exercise (FTX). During the exercise, participants will engage in various missions testing their operational acumen in various simulated situations; showcasing and refining their tactical drills, and learning from each other's operational experience. "Ajeya Warrior" is yet another significant milestone in defence cooperation between the Indian Army and British Army which will further foster the bilateral relations between the two countries, said the Defence Ministry statement. The exercise is part of an initiative to develop interoperability and share expertise with friendly foreign nations. Both nations' military forces take part in this combined military drill. It aims to provide pieces of training to the soldiers of both nations in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. It has proved to be an excellent strategy for strengthening the ties between them. (ANI)
"Delighted to meet Canadian Minister for International Trade @Mary_Ng in Ottawa. Looking forward to continuing discussions to further strengthen bilateral ties at the India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment today," Goyal tweeted.

Goyal will hold meetings with CEOs of key Canadian companies, a Round Table of Indian and Canadian CEOs, interaction with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada and a Financial Sector Round table, among others. The visit is expected to impart further momentum to bilateral trade and investment relations.

The minister would be accompanied by a delegation of Indian CEOs led by industry body FICCI.

He will co-chair the discussions for the sixth India- Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) in Ottawa.

MDTI is a bilateral mechanism that provides an institutional mechanism to discuss a broad spectrum of trade and investment-related issues and cooperation areas.

The dialogue will focus on various themes including strengthening the Bilateral Trade Relationship between India and Canada, Investment Promotion and Cooperation, Green Transition - including Critical Minerals discussion and new Areas of Cooperation such as promoting B2B engagements.

The ministers will also review India-Canada CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) negotiations.

At the last MDTI meeting in March 2022, both ministers launched the CEPA negotiations with the possibility of an interim agreement or EPTA (Early Progress Trade Agreement). Since then, seven rounds of negotiations have been held.

Goyal will also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, which is the largest food innovation trade show in North America with the participation of more than 1000 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries.

There will also be a Trade and Investment Promotion Event for the Agricultural and Food Processing sector with Indian companies and Canadian importers on the sidelines of SIAL-2023. This event is likely to be attended by 200 companies. (ANI)
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday said that an investment conference would be convened to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Scotland in diverse fields, including trade, investment, education, water management, wind, and solar technology, Tribune reported. Speaking to media persons after a meeting with Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf in London, Shehbaz said he held productive talks with a "young and energetic" first minister. "We have agreed to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Scotland," he said. He added that around 80,000-strong Pakistani diaspora significantly contributed to Scotland's development and progress. To a question that the UK's National Crime Agency cleared his name in a money laundering case, Shehbaz said the NCA investigated this matter for two years, and he emerged innocent. Earlier, Shehbaz met Humza Yousaf, who called on him in London. Shehbaz felicitated the first minister on his election, which, he said, underscored the positive contribution of the British-Pakistani community to the development of the UK. During the meeting, both sides held talks on strengthening the bilateral relations. They agreed to strengthen the bilateral ties in trade, investment, education, water management, wind and solar technology and people-to-people contacts. The two sides also agreed to promote joint ventures in various fields, as they explored ways to leverage the Scottish-Pakistani entrepreneurs, to promote investment in Pakistan. They also agreed to cooperate in addressing the challenge of climate change. The Prime Minister suggested holding an investment conference in Scotland and separately arranging a roadshow to showcase Pakistan's renewable energy potential in Scotland. The Prime Minister thanked the Scottish government for its generous contribution to flood relief last year. Shehbaz invited Yousaf to visit Pakistan, which he accepted. Yousaf is the first British national of Pakistani heritage to hold this coveted position. Separately, in a tweet, Shehbaz said the Fifth Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Dialogue held in Islamabad on Saturday underscored the unwavering consensus of Pakistan and China to work for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan in the interest of the Afghan people. "Unlocking the economic potential of the region remains contingent on the restoration of regional peace and stability. Investing in peace and stability through a collective and sustained focus will ensure win-win outcomes, including the success of initiatives aimed at greater regional connectivity and socio-economic progress," he wrote. (ANI)
After the grand coronation of King Charles III, he posed for official coronation portraits at Buckingham Palace and the picture are now out. Photographer Hugo Burnand got behind the camera for the historic snaps. On Monday, the Buckingham Palace released the first official portrait of King Charles. For the solo shot, King Charles was wearing the Imperial State Crown and Robe of Estate which is made of purple silk velvet embroidered in gold and was worn by King George VI in 1937, as per the official 'The Royal Family's' website. For the portrait, he sat on a throne chair. The coronation of King Charles III and his wife Queen Camilla took place on May 6 at Westminster Abbey, London. During a special King's procession, the royal monarchs travelled in vintage carriages. King Charles III's enthronement outfit has broken the typical royal tradition as the majesty arrived in modernised attire for the ceremony. According to Page 6 magazine, the King decided to ditch the usual coronation outfit which consists of the silk stockings and breeches. Also, the royal monarch was earlier suspected of wearing his military uniform which didn't happen. Charles wore a modernised outfit vintage Robe of State, a crimson Coronation Tunic and a cream silk over shirt with Royal Naval trousers as he got crowned as the 40th royal monarch. Meanwhile, the newly crowned Queen Camilla wore an ivory gown by Bruce Oldfield featuring silver and gold embroidery depicting the national flowers of the United Kingdom. She accessorized her outfit with the iconic Coronation Necklace, which boasts a jaw-dropping 22.48-carat pendant known as the Lahore Diamond. The Queen was crowned with the same headpiece Queen Mary used in 1911, although she added jewels from Queen Elizabeth's collection to honour her late mother-in-law. She also paid tribute to her husband's mother by wearing the same robe Elizabeth wore to her own coronation 70 years ago, as per Page Six. The pair of Jack Russell terriers, named Beth and Bluebell, was adopted by King Charles III and Camilla from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in February 2017. After the King was crowned, Queen Camilla received her own coronation, albeit in a slightly different form. After the service, the King and selected members of the royal family made the customary appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony. A flypast of military aircraft was scaled back due to bad weather in London. (ANI)
The Consulate General of India in Houston in the US expressed condolences to the family of Indian-origin engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, who died in the Texas shootout. "We express our deep condolences to the family of Ms Aishwarya Thatikonda who died in the tragic shooting incident in Allen, Texas on May 6. We are in touch with the family of the deceased as well as the local authorities. Our officers are on the ground to render all possible assistance. We are closely monitoring the situation," the Consulate General of India in Houston tweeted. Thatikonda was among the nine people killed when a gun-wielding man opened fire at shoppers outside a mall in the Dallas area in the US on Saturday, The New York Post reported. Thatikonda, a project manager with a private company in Dallas and a resident of Saroornagar in Hyderabad had moved to the US from India. According to local media reports the 27-year-old was shopping with a friend at the Allen Premium Outlets in the northern suburbs of Dallas when a gunman opened fire. The assailant identified as Mauricio Garcia was later shot dead by a police officer. Thatikonda, 27, lived and worked in McKinney, Texas while her family was in India, Texas-based WFAA television station reported. According to a family representative, the Indian-origin girl was with a friend at the outlet mall when the shots rang out. Her friend who also sustained injuries is currently in stable condition at the hospital, the network was cited in the WFAA report. Thatikonda's family plans to bring her body back to India, the representative said. As per her LinkedIn profile, Thatikonda had been working in Dallas for over two years.In a statement, the Allen Premium Outlets stated: "We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country," according to The New York Post. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders." Brian E Harvey, the chief of police in Allen, Texas, said at a news conference on Saturday night that the gunman acted alone. A police officer, who was on another assignment at the mall at the time of the shooting, heard gunfire, rushed towards it, and killed the shooter. Around 3:30 pm (local time), a shooting was witnessed at the Allen Premium Outlets, an outdoor shopping centre with more than 120 retailers located about 25 miles north of Dallas, according to The New York Times. Social media users posted a video showing the shooter lying on the ground, dressed in all-black, holding a long rifle, and what appeared to be several rounds of ammo and a tactical vest. Hundreds of customers were seen leaving the area on video taken from the scene while many of them had their hands raised. The aerial footage showed at least three bodies covered in sheets outside the mall, reported New York Times. According to US Census Bureau, Texas has the second-largest Indian-American population in the US as of 2020. In 2010, there were 230,842 Indian Americans in Texas, making up 0.9 per cent of the population. According to the data shared by the Open Doors, about half of the Indian students are pursuing higher education in six US states including New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Arizona. Texas had 19,382 Indian students in 2021 (ANI)
Abu Dhabi [United Arab Emirates], May 8 (ANI/WAM): The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) highlighted the increasingly significant contribution of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant towards the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and efforts to tackle climate change at the World Utilities Congress (WUC), held in Abu Dhabi from 8th to 10th May 2023. With eyes on the global energy sector ahead of COP28 in the UAE, the WUC will convene global energy leaders, policymakers, innovators, and industry professionals from across the power & water utilities value chain as utilities worldwide work to deliver secure, sustainable, and affordable energy. The theme of WUC 2023 is 'enabling a secure and sustainable utility future' with the industry converging to discuss the trends and technologies impacting future power and water demand. During WUC, ENEC showcased the continued impact and progress of the Barakah Plant, a nation-defining strategic energy infrastructure project, alongside global utility leaders. Barakah is spearheading the rapid decarbonization of the UAE's power sector and over the winter months, the Plant was generating up to 48 per cent of Abu Dhabi's electricity 24/7, with all of it being carbon-free. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ENEC, said, "Decarbonising the utility sector in a sustainable manner is essential if the world is to achieve Net Zero. Bringing together experts from across the UAE and internationally is key to identifying realistic solutions to accelerating energy and water security. The UAE is already well ahead of the curve, having taken the decision to add nuclear energy to the national mix, which is having a swift and deep impact on decarbonising the country's power portfolio. ENEC's leadership has showcased a new model to the world for nuclear developments, with Barakah recognised as a global benchmark in terms of impact, success, project management and cost. It is a pleasure to be a lead supporter for the Nuclear Energy Forum, where experts have convened to discuss the critical role of nuclear in achieving Net Zero along with the latest technologies and related clean energy sources such as hydrogen and ammonia that will accelerate innovation for the global clean energy transition." Al Hammadi gave a speech during the opening ceremony of the WUC alongside distinguished guests Her Highness Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President and Chief Executive Officer of UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), Suhail Bin Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, and Jasim Husain Thabet, Group CEO & Managing Director of TAQA. The strategic conference allows industry leaders to directly engage policymakers and discuss the support they need to ensure a secure and sustainable power and water future. "Energy security and decarbonisation are two the most important priorities for governments and utilities today seeking clean energy security. With global electricity demand set to double by 2050, clean, reliable and abundant power generation capacity has become crucial for sustainable urban development and economic growth. As a result, we are seeing an increasing number of countries turning to nuclear for clean baseload electricity. The UAE's energy portfolio includes solar, natural gas and nuclear and in the future, it will also include other clean energy technologies. While nuclear energy has already become the largest source of clean electricity in the UAE and wider region in just three years, and delivering the largest decarbonisation impact in the nation's history, we are now moving into the next phase of our civil nuclear energy journey. I look forward to showcasing our nation's success so far in terms of enhancing energy security and sustainability at COP28 and demonstrating to the world the benefits and infinite possibilities of nuclear energy," Al Hammadi said. Al Hammadi also gave the welcome address to the Nuclear Energy Forum highlighting the importance of nuclear energy to deliver Net Zero and the UAE's roadmap for the future. The dedicated Nuclear Energy Forum ran alongside the exhibition focusing on the role of nuclear energy in tackling climate change and will provide updates on new and emerging technologies in the nuclear industry. He said, "Our success with the Barakah Plant has resulted in creating a new benchmark for nuclear as part of a balanced low-carbon energy system. Today, the UAE is exploring plans that span regional power exports, green molecules, alternative clean fuels and advanced nuclear technologies including Small Modular Reactors. Meanwhile, we will continue to enhance decarbonization and sustainability.... building on the success we have already achieved in the areas such as clean energy certificates and green financing." In addition, Al Hammadi was featured on the panel 'Achieving net zero and ensuring energy security: What is the blueprint for solving these dual challenges with nuclear?' discussing the importance of including nuclear in the energy mix to meet net-zero commitments. The panel explained how nuclear energy is the world's second-largest source of low-carbon energy after hydro and is key to achieving global climate targets. The UAE Peaceful Nuclear Energy Programme is a vital part of the UAE's clean energy ecosystem of low-carbon technologies, ensuring the sustainability, reliability, and resiliency of the UAE grid for at least the next 60 years. Gas demand for electricity is now at an 11-year low in Abu Dhabi because of the significant transformation in how the Emirate is generating its electricity. The three commercially operational units at Barakah provide electricity at all times of the day and night, sustainably powering the nation's growth. A fourth unit is close to completion and all four combined will provide 25% of the UAE's electricity needs. (ANI/WAM)
Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid on Monday offered condolences to the Indian families who lost their lives in Kerala's Malappuram boat capsize incident on Sunday. As many as 22 people, including a police officer, were killed after an overloaded double-decker tourist boat capsized at Parappanangadi on Sunday. Abdulla Shahid tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the news of the tragic incident in Malappuram district, #Kerala, where a boat capsized claiming lives of many. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims." Responding to Abdullah Shahid's tweet, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar thanked Maldives counterpart for his comforting words. Taking to its official Twitter handle, Jaishankar in response stated, "Thank you for your comforting words, FM @abdulla_shahid." Meanwhile, a helicopter of the Indian Navy, with an aircrew diver, was set off on Monday for Malappuram, wherein a boat capsized drowning around 40 tourists, to assist in the ongoing rescue operations, a statement from Southern Naval Command said. According to the statement, the helicopter was launched at the request of the Kerala government. The site of the incident is approx 150 km from Kochi. "Initial aerial survey of the site of the incident was undertaken. Contact has been established with National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and a local diving team undertaking a search in the area," the statement read. "Multiple sorties of the naval helicopter are planned to aid the civil administration with the ongoing search operations," it added. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that a judicial inquiry along with a meticulous investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kerala Police will be conducted into the boat capsize incident. He tweeted, "A thorough judicial inquiry along with a meticulous investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kerala Police will be conducted to bring those responsible for the Tanur boat accident to justice. An ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh will be provided to the kin of each of the deceased." The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting held in Tanoor on Monday. The judicial commission will comprise technical experts to examine the technical aspect of the capsized boat. "It needs to be seen whether the precautionary measures established after the suggestions of various investigations reports of similar tragedies are followed up here," Kerala CM said in a Facebook post. "It has been decided to conduct a judicial inquiry into the Tanur tragedy. It is envisaged that the judicial commission will also comprise technical experts to look into technical issues related to the boat," he added. He further said that the police investigation will be conducted by forming a special investigation team. Malappuram District Police Chief will head the investigation team. (ANI)
King Charles and Prince Harry in 2018, left, and Prince Harry sits alone at King Charles' coronation on May 6, 2023. Matt Dunham - WPA Pool/Getty Images, Andrew Matthews - WPA Pool/Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Harry have had a complex relationship through the years.

Harry said his father stopped taking his calls after he stepped back from royal duties in 2020.

But their relationship may be on the mend as Harry attended Charles' coronation on Saturday.

The Duke of Sussex and King Charles III have had a fractured relationship ever since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped back from royal duties in 2020.

Speaking to Oprah Winfrey in 2021, Prince Harry said his father stopped taking his calls amid conversations about his royal exit and that he was financially cut off from the royal family after resigning in the spring of 2020.

But their relationship appears to have somewhat improved recently. Harry and Charles have made several public appearances together, including at the funerals of Prince Philip in April 2021 and Queen Elizabeth in September 2022, and at Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022.

And after ascending the throne on September 8, King Charles mentioned his "love for Harry and Meghan" in his first speech as monarch.

Speaking to ITV's Tom Bradby in January 2023 to promote his memoir, Harry said he wanted his father back in his life.

"I would like to get my father back. I would like to have my brother back," Harry said.

The current status of Harry and Charles' relationship is not known. However, it's worth noting that Harry attended the king's coronation ceremony on Saturday, May 6. Harry appeared to be in good spirits as he spoke with members of the royal family. He didn't have a formal role at the ceremony and therefore did not interact with Charles or Prince William at the event.

Buckingham Palace and representatives for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on the status of King Charles and Harry's relationship.

Prince Harry was born on September 15, 1984. He appeared to have a close relationship with his father from a young age  here they are at their former Kensington Palace home in 1985.

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Prince Charles and Prince Harry at Kensington Palace in 1985. Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

However, the family's home life wasn't always a happy one. Charles and Diana's marriage went "down the drain" after Harry was born, Diana once said in audio recordings about her life.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and Prince Harry arrive at Sandringham for a photo call in January 1988. Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

Source: "Diana: In Her Own Words"

Charles would often abandon the royals' stereotypical "stiff upper lip" to comfort his sons. Here he is embracing Harry at a polo match in 1990.

Prince Charles with William and Harry at a polo match in 1990. Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

Charles walked alongside Harry and William at their mother's funeral on September 6, 1997. Harry was just 12 at the time, while William was 15.

Prince Philip, Prince William, Earl Spencer, Prince Harry, and Prince Charles walk outside Westminster Abbey during the funeral procession for Diana, Princess of Wales on September 6, 1997. Jeff J. Mitchell/Pool/AP

Harry supported his father at his wedding to Camilla Parker Bowles on April 9, 2005. Years later, the prince wrote in his memoir that he initially didn't want the wedding to take place due to the controversy it would cause.

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, after their wedding in 2005. Anwar Hussein Collection/ROTA/WireImage

Source: Insider

Meanwhile, Charles supported Harry in his military career. He presented his son with a flying badge at the Museum of Army Flying on May 7, 2010.

Prince Charles presents Prince Harry with a flying badge on May 7, 2010. Eddie Keogh/WPA Pool/Getty Images

Charles walked Harry's bride, Meghan Markle, down the aisle at St George's Chapel on May 19, 2018, after her own father was unable to make the ceremony.

Meghan Markle walks up the aisle with Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle during her wedding to Prince Harry on May 19, 2018, in Windsor, England. Dominic Lipinski/ - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Harry and Charles aren't just father and son  they used to be co-workers. The pair attended events together when Harry was a working royal, including the International Year of the Reef meeting, pictured below.

Prince Harry and Prince Charles attend the International Year of The Reef meeting at Fishmongers' Hall on February 14, 2018, in London, England. Matt Dunham - WPA Pool/Getty Images

They ditched royal formalities and greeted each other with a hug before the meeting began.

Harry and Charles greet each other with a hug at the International Year of The Reef meeting at Fishmongers' Hall on February 14, 2018. Matt Dunham - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Their relationship took a turn for the worse after Harry resigned from royal duties in March 2020. Harry told Oprah Winfrey in March 2021 that his father stopped taking his calls shortly before his "step back."

Harry and Charles at their final royal engagement together at Westminster Abbey in March 2020. Phil Harris/Pool via AP Images

Source: "Oprah with Meghan and Harry"

Harry and Charles reunited at Prince Philip's funeral on April 17, 2021. It was the first time they had come face to face since the Oprah interview aired, during which Harry also said he had been cut off financially from the family.

Members of the royal family at Prince Philip's funeral on April 17, 2021. Mark Cuthbert-Pool/UK Press via Getty Images

Source: Insider

Harry and Meghan returned to the UK in June 2022 for Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations. While they attended many of the same events as Charles, they weren't photographed together or seen interacting with him.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attend the National Service of Thanksgiving for Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. AARON CHOWN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Queen Elizabeth died on September 8 at the age of 96. King Charles III automatically ascended the throne, and in his first speech as monarch, he mentioned his "love for Harry and Meghan."

King Charles gives a speech after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. The Royal Family/Instagram

Read more: King Charles III mentioned his 'love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas' in his first speech as king

As Charles was officially sworn in as monarch by the Accession Council on September 10, he used an ink pot that was reportedly a joint gift from Harry and William.

King Charles III speaking at the Accession Council meeting on September 10, 2022. The Royal Family/YouTube

Read more: Charles III included a subtle nod to Prince Harry and Prince William during the ceremony where he swore his oaths as king

On September 13, Harry, Charles, and Meghan were pictured together at Buckingham Palace as they waited for the Queen's coffin to arrive from Scotland. It marked the first time the trio were pictured together since the Sussexes' step back.

A close-up photo shows Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, and King Charles through a window of Buckingham Palace in September 2022. Jeremy Selwyn - WPA Pool/Getty Images

They appeared to show a united front as they walked behind the Queen's coffin at her funeral service on September 19.

King Charles, Prince Harry, and Princess Anne at the committal service for Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. Kirsty O'Connor - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Read more: Prince Harry and King Charles' fractured relationship appears to have reached a truce  a major step forward could be giving his children princely titles

Harry said he wanted his father and brother back in his life while promoting his memoir in January.

Prince Harry being interviewed by Tom Bradby at his home in Montecito, California, in January 2023. ITV

Harry published his memoir, "Spare," in January, which shares details about his life in the royal family and his upbringing.

In an interview with ITV's Tom Brady to promote the book, Harry said that he and Charles were not on speaking terms but he wanted his father back in his life.

"I would like to get my father back. I would like to have my brother back," Harry said, adding that the family had shown "no willingness to reconcile."

Buckingham Palace did not publicly respond to Harry's allegations or make a statement regarding the publication of the book.

After months of speculation about whether he would attend the king's coronation, Harry was all smiles as he arrived at Westminster Abbey solo.

Prince Harry speaks to Princess Anne at King Charles III's coronation on May 6, 2023. Richard Pohle - WPA Pool/Getty Images

The current status of Harry and Charles' relationship is not known. However, it's worth noting that Harry showed his support for Charles by attending his coronation ceremony without Meghan Markle at Westminster Abbey in London on May 6.

Harry appeared to be in good spirits as he smiled and chatted with members of the royal family. However, he wasn't part of the ceremony and therefore did not interact with Charles or William at the event.

The Duke of Sussex also reportedly left for the airport straight after the ceremony and didn't join the family at any private celebrations over the weekend. According to Sky News, Harry flew back to California after the ceremony and arrived in Los Angeles on Saturday evening in time to celebrate his son Archie's birthday, which was on the same day as the coronation.

Read the original article on Insider
A Nashville teenager has been arrested after authorities said over the weekend that he stole a school bus and drove it onto a local interstate. The 14-year-old boy, who has not been publicly named, also allegedly attempted to run someone over at a service station.

The Metro Nashville Police Department tweeted about the incident on Saturday, saying the teen drove the bus on I-40 West. The department said that the bus was taken from Kipp College Prep in Antioch, and that the teen drove it through West Nashville, during which time he hit a diesel fuel pump and allegedly attempted to run someone over, according to the Associated Press.

The teen then headed for I-40, where he reportedly hit a car, the AP said. Once on the highway, the 14-year-old allegedly drove the bus up to 65 mph, and the chase ended after police put out a spike strip near an exit.

"He stopped on the interstate and was attempting to turn around when officers broke out the glass to the bus door and took the teen in custody," officials said on Twitter. "He is booked on multiple counts at Juv Court."

A 14-yr-old has been arrested after stealing a school bus and driving it onto I-40 west. He stopped on the interstate and was attempting to turn around when officers broke out the glass to the bus door and took the teen into custody. He is booked on multiple counts at Juv Court. pic.twitter.com/3VXNpWX7pz  Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) May 7, 2023

Police used a taser to detain the 14-year-old, the AP said, adding that the teen has since been charged with vehicle theft, aggravated assault, evading arrest, reckless driving, driving without a license, leaving the scene of a crash and failure to report a crash.

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A 15-year-old girl missing for three days was found dead, Illinois police said.

DeKalb police opened a homicide investigation following the discovery of the girls body. Officers also arrested a male acquaintance of the victim, police said in a Sunday, May 7, news release.

The girl was not named by police, but loved ones identified her in social media posts as Gracie Sasso.

DeKalb officers were notified Saturday about the girls disappearance. Family members said she was last seen Thursday evening, and phone records indicated she had been at a home in DeKalb, according to police.

Sunday afternoon, her body was found on the same block where the phone records pinged her, police said. The discovery was made near Northern Illinois Universitys campus.

Evidencefrom a search warrant conducted at a nearby home led to the arrest of the suspect, according to police. Formal charges are pending.

Police said there is no threat to the general public.

The 15-year-old was a freshman at DeKalb High School, Shaw Local reported.

It is with sadness that I share the news today that the students and staff of DeKalb High School, along with the entire District 428, experienced a tragedy today with the death of one of our freshman students, school district Superintendent Minerva Garcia-Sanchez said in an email to families, according to Shaw Local. All of us are grieving this tragic loss.

Loved ones said in a GoFundMe they hope to plan a Sweet Sixteen funeral for Gracie to embrace happiness and good memories.

Gracie was an extremely amazing makeup artist, always on point with her outfits and hair, and she also played the violin, according to the GoFundMe. Gracie never (met) ... an animal she didnt love immediately and want to keep. She was a blessing as a sister, a daughter, and a friend to all.

Dekalb is about 65 miles west of Chicago.

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A 15-year-old girl was hurt in a shooting Sunday in north Charlotte, according to MEDIC.

It happened around 4:30 p.m. on Johnston Oehler Road near Mallard Creek Park.

Police said that there was a large gathering at the park before the shooting occurred, but its not yet clear what led to the shooting.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said the teen was transported to Atrium CMC with life-threatening injuries.

On Monday, a report released to Channel 9 said that a second teen was hurt in the shooting but wasnt taken to the hospital. Three vehicles were also shot into, according to the police report.

No suspects have been arrested yet.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is announcing the results of a year-long national operation that led to dozens of arrests in Georgia.

Operation Last Mile targeted operatives, associates, and distributors affiliated with the Sinaloa and Jalisco Cartels, according to a news release.

The DEA says the two Mexico-based cartels are behind most of the fentanyl and methamphetamine that is killing Americans.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

The operation revealed the Cartels use social media like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat to coordinate logistics and find victims.

Operation Last Mile occurred between May 1, 2022 to May 1, 2023 and comprised 1,436 investigations resulting in 3,337 arrests.

Investigators seized nearly 44 million fentanyl pills, 6,500 pounds of fentanyl powder, 91,00 pounds of methamphetamine, 8,497 guns, and more than $100 million.

The Atlanta Division played a part. The division oversees Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

TRENDING STORIES:

The Atlanta Division conducted 76 investigations resulting in 272 arrests and the seizure of nearly 150,000 fake pills, 180 pounds of fentanyl powder, 2,400 pounds of meth, 329 guns, and nearly $12 million in assets, according to a news release.

The fentanyl adds up to nearly 5 million deadly doses, according to the DEA.

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Operation Last Mile not only removed deadly drugs off our streets, but several dangerous drug dealers who worked with the Cartels to profit from the opioid epidemic our nation is currently facing, said Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division Robert J. Murphy. Our agents worked diligently on nearly 100 cases to shut these operations down and to keep our communities safe.

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The DEA says Operation Last Mile is an example of a network-based approach to take out Sinaloa and Jalisco cartel members and associates in the United States and across the globe.

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In this Aug. 24, 2011 photo, people play at the beach at Cape Hatteras National Seashore in Avon, N.C. AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File

A teen died on a North Carolina beach after a sand dune collapsed while he was inside of a hole.

The boy became trapped and buried under a mound of sand, the National Parks Service said.

The National Parks Service warns on its website that sand is "prone to collapsing."

A 17-year-old boy died over the weekend after he became trapped inside a deep hole on a North Carolina beach when a dune collapsed, burying him under a mound of sand, officials said.

The Chesapeake, Virginia, teen wound up trapped inside a hole on Saturday at North Carolina's Cape Hatteras National Seashore that had been dug in a back-dune area not visible from the beachfront, the National Parks Service said in a statement.

Before Seashore law enforcement rangers helped to pull the teen from the hole, family and friends went to search for him and discovered him buried under several feet of sand from a collapsed adjacent dune, officials said.

The National Parks Service said rangers worked with family members "to extract the teen while simultaneously performing CPR" on the boy, but he could not be saved.

"We urge visitors not to dig deep holes on the beach due to the danger they present to beachgoers and emergency response staff," David Hallac, the superintendent of the National Parks of Eastern North Carolina, said in the statement.

The National Parks Service warns on its website that sand at Cape Hatteras National Seashore is "prone to collapsing" and that beach-goers should never "dig a hole too deep where you find your head below the sand."

Just last year, a 13-year-old boy died after he dug a tunnel in the side of a sand dune, and it collapsed on him at Utah's Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, officials said at the time.

Read the original article on Insider
A man accused of attempted murder on a college campus is missing after police said he cut off his ankle monitor and evaded authorities.

Nineteen-year-old Ali Younes strangled someone at the University of Iowa in April 2022, according to a news release from university police and the Johnson County Attorneys Office.

The victim, a woman who was also robbed of jewelry, survived, according to the Daily Iowan. Younes was a student at the university at the time, while the victim was not, a spokesperson for university police told McClatchy News.

Younes had been the subject of stalking, harassment and assault complaints in the past, the outlet reported.

Less than a day after the alleged strangling, he was arrested and barred from returning to campus, police said. He is charged with attempt to commit murder, first-degree robbery, and first-degree theft.

An attorney for Younes could not immediately be reached for comment by McClatchy News.

While awaiting trial, he was released on the condition that he wear a GPS monitor, give up his passport and stay under house arrest.

However, officials said they were informed that Younes had removed his ankle monitor on May 6, preventing them from monitoring his location.

Law enforcement officials have been unsuccessful in multiple attempts to locate him, and a warrant has been issued for his immediate arrest, police said.

The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are assisting in the search effort, police said.

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The operator of a hydroelectric dam on the Puyallup River and a key executive have been ordered to pay $1 million in fines and restitution after pleading guilty earlier this year to a gross misdemeanor related to a 2020 construction projects pollution of the river.

Electron Hydro, LLC, was ordered Friday by Pierce County Superior Court Judge Philip Sorenson to pay $745,000 in restitution to the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries and $250,000 in penalties, according to a news release from the Washington State Attorney Generals Office, whose environmental protection division prosecuted the case.

Chief operating officer Thom Fischer was ordered to pay $5,000 in penalties. All penalties will be paid to Pierce County.

The fines and restitution, believed to be the largest ever for an environmental crime in Washington state law history, were recommended by the Attorney Generals Office in February, when a deal was struck on the day that Fischers trial was set to begin.

In 2022, the Attorney Generals Office filed 36 criminal charges against Electron Hydro and Fischer, including for violations of the states Water Pollution Control Act and Pierce County Code. The company and Fischer ultimately pleaded guilty to operating an unlawful hydraulic project. Fischer, who had faced nearly a year in jail, will avoid doing any time as long as he abides with terms of his sentence and doesnt violate any laws.

In summer 2020, an Electron Hydro construction project spilled toxic debris into the river, where it flowed for 10 days, after a plastic liner ripped. The liner had been covering artificial field turf laced with crumb rubber  neither of which the company was permitted to use as part of the project, according to the Attorney Generals Office.

The crumb rubber contained a chemical that is highly toxic to coho salmon, the Attorney Generals Office said, and the Tribe found and removed turf from the river as late as March. Attorneys for Electron Hydro and Fischer had said there was no evidence that any fish were harmed by the spill.

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In a statement Monday, Attorney General Bob Ferguson said the restitution directs critical resources towards restoring the Puyallup River from the damage cause(d) by Electron Hydros criminal conduct.

The Puyallup Tribe has been a steward of the Puyallup River for generations, and the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries is best positioned to preserve, restore and enhance the river, Ferguson said.

The Puyallup Tribe did not immediately respond to a message seeking a comment on Monday, which was a Tribal holiday, according to an automatic reply email from a Tribal spokesperson.

In February, attorneys for Electron Hydro and Fischer emphasized that the river was unintentionally polluted during a project to improve operations at the plant, which provides renewable energy to more than 20,000 customers in Pierce County.

In a statement Monday, an attorney representing the company and Fischer said that both were thankful that the states case had concluded and were pleased that restitution will be invested in fisheries enhancement on the Puyallup River.

Electron looks forward to moving ahead with installation of fish and sediment exclusion facilities in the river to prevent harm to fish, the statement read. The company would then return to providing renewable energy for the community while protecting and enhancing the fishery.

The Puyallup Tribe previously criticized the case outcome as falling short of accountability, saying in February that the pollution was intentional and that Electron Hydro and Fischer had ignored concerns from the companys staff and biologist.

The end of the criminal matter related to the pollution does not resolve ongoing civil cases against Electron Hydro, according to the Attorney Generals Office.
The 2024 presidential race is taking shape.

President Joe Biden announced April 25 that he is running for reelection.

Former President Donald Trump, defeated by Biden in 2020, announced Nov. 15, 2022, that he is seeking a second, non-consecutive term in the White House. Other Republican Oval Office aspirants have followed him into the race.

Here is what you need to know about the presidential election 2024.

When is the next presidential election?

The next presidential election date is Nov. 5, 2024.

Who are the Democrats running for president in 2024?

President Joe Biden announced his reelection bid on April 25, 2023.

Biden is the White House incumbent, but a couple of Democrats already have announced intentions to challenge him.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., 69, is the nephew of President John F. Kennedy and the son of former U.S. Attorney General and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, D-N.Y., who was assassinated in 1968 while running for president. Kennedy is an environmental attorney who more recently has gained notoriety as an anti-vaccine political gadfly.

Author Marianne Williamson, 70, who unsuccessfully sought the 2020 Democratic nomination, also has announced she's running again.

Who are the Republicans running for president in 2024?

Trump, 76, was the first to announce a 2024 candidacy and remains the clear GOP front-runner.

Since he got into the race, he has been joined by Nikki Haley, 51, a former South Carolina governor and the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations; Asa Hutchinson, 72, a former Arkansas governor; Larry Elder, 71, a libertarian-leaning radio talk show host; and Vivek Ramaswamy, 37, an independently wealthy entrepreneur.

Other Republican possibilities for 2024 include former Vice President Mike Pence, 63; Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, 44; former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, 60; and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, 48.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, 56, also has been the focus of speculation, which he didn't dispel when he recently said he wouldn't be seeking the White House "this year" (2023).

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How old would Joe Biden be at the end of a second term?

If reelected, Biden would be 86 on the day he leaves the White House.

How old would Donald Trump be at the end of another term?

Trump would be 82.

Does Arizona have a presidential primary?

Yes, although technically it is called a presidential preference election.

When is Arizona's presidential primary?

According to state law, the presidential preference election is held the Tuesday immediately following March 15 of a presidential election year. That would make it March 19, 2024. However, the law also gives the governor the authority to push back the date via a proclamation issued no later than 180 days before the new date.

Can other races be added to the presidential preference election ballot?

Arizona law says no.

When and where is the 2024 Democratic National Convention?

The Democratic National Convention, where the Democratic presidential and vice presidential candidates will accept the party's nomination, is set for Aug. 19, 2024, to Aug. 22, 2024, in Chicago.

When and where is the 2024 Republican National Convention?

The Republican National Convention, where the GOP presidential and vice presidential candidates will accept the party's nominations, is scheduled for July 15, 2024, to July 18, 2024, in Milwaukee.

How many electoral votes does Arizona have?

Arizona has 11 votes in the Electoral College. The number is a combination of the number of U.S. senators and the number of U.S. representatives the state has. Arizona, like every state, has two senators. Arizona has nine U.S. House seats.

Where can I find 2024 Arizona election dates?

It's still early in the 2024 campaign cycle, but Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes has published a draft election calendar on his office's website.

Is Arizona a Democratic or Republican state?

That's a complicated question. Arizona for decades was a reliably red state in presidential elections, but Biden in 2020 became the first Democrat to carry Arizona since President Bill Clinton in 1996 and the second since President Harry Truman did so in 1948.

Arizona also has a Democratic governor and one Democratic U.S. senator (and a second senator who was elected as a Democrat but changed to independent while in office). Changing demographics and the Republican Party's push to the right during the Trump era have contributed to the shift.

Is Arizona a presidential battleground state?

Yes. While people may argue about whether Arizona is a "red," "blue" or "purple" state, everyone expects the major-party presidential nominees and their allies to shower attention and money on the competitive state. That's what happened in 2020, and it's a safe bet that it will happen again in 2024.

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Are there more registered Democrats or Republicans in Arizona?

As of April 2023, Arizona's voter registration numbers broke down this way: Republicans, 34.6%; independents, 34.3%; and Democrats, 30.3%. Libertarians made up 0.8% of the state's nearly 4.2 million registered voters.

Dan Nowicki is The Arizona Republic's national politics editor. Follow him on Twitter at @dannowicki.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Who's running for president in 2024? What Arizonans need to know
A 22-year-old man graduated from college, then was killed in a tragic accident that same day, according to officials in Ohio.

The University of Dayton alumnus was identified as Ian Brunner of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, according to WHIO.

Brunner graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering before he died on campus in an accident involving his vehicle on Sunday, May 7, the Dayton Daily News reported.

A car fell off a vehicle jack at the Campus South apartments, crushing the man underneath, WDTN reported. People walking by found Brunner under the car, tried to help and called 911 shortly after 7 p.m.

Brunner graduated from the University of Dayton earlier that day, according to a statement from the school.

Yesterday graduation day began in joyful celebration, marking the end of four plus years of study and the beginning of the next phase of life for our graduates, Crystal Sullivan, director of Campus Ministry, said during a memorial gathering. New jobs, new relationships, new adventures  causes to celebrate.

Yesterday ended in a tragic accident for one graduate, Ian Brunner, marking the end of his life with us and the beginning of his life with Jesus, she continued.

We ask that the community keep Ians family, friends and loved ones in their prayers, the university said in a statement to McClatchy News.

University of Dayton is a Catholic university with about 11,770 students. The universitys Department of Public Safety is investigating the fatal incident.

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The Lewis Street overpass project is costing Pasco a pretty penny.

The city council approved last week four change orders totaling $1.2 million.

Those changes were the costliest to date for the project, which aims to replace the existing Lewis Street underpass  a dated span built under the BNSF railyard in 1937  with a new overpass bridge.

The Lewis Street overpass bridge, which aims to replace the existing Lewis Street underpass, constructed under the BNSF railyard in 1937, has had a total of 21 change orders made to the project totaling nearly $1.94 million in unforeseen expenses for the city of Pasco.

In all, 21 change orders have been needed totaling nearly $1.94 million for unforeseen expenses  which exceed the 5% construction contingency budgeted by the city.

Workers broke ground on the $22.3 million project in June 2021. Its supposed to open to traffic this September.

The current cost is estimated at $24.3 million, although that price tag is expected to grow even more.

City officials hope the project will spur economic interest and growth in the historic downtown area.

The new bridge will feature two lanes of traffic, bike lanes and sidewalks connecting downtown to east Pasco.

The construction contract was awarded to Vancouver, Wash.-based Cascade Bridge in March 2021.

At last weeks meeting, several city council members told the city staff to release more detailed information on the extra costs of the project so the public has a better understanding of the issue.

Mayor Blanche Barajas said the city needed to minimize the added costs of the Lewis Street project.

We have in our horizon some very large projects that are coming, said Mayor Pro Tem Craig Maloney. This is not the last one  in fact, this is not even the biggest one we have in our near-term horizon.

Council members urged city staff to find a better way of estimating the extra costs earlier on major projects.

Complex project

The Lewis Street overpass is a large, complex project that has been in the works for 20 years, Worley told the Tri-City Herald.

It is not uncommon to have change orders to the levels that we have on this project, Worley said. We try to have as few as possible, but sometimes the project just requires them in order to keep moving forward.

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Even during the construction phase, Worley said, large-scale bridge projects consistently have re-design, re-fabrication and unforeseen work that needs to be done.

As a future cost-saving measure, the city also plans to pay the contractor more to replace aging utilities found during excavation work on the Lewis Street project.

Of the $1.2 million in additional spending recently approved, more than $848,000 was spent to remove debris and the foundation from two blocks of previously demolished buildings between Second Avenue and Tacoma Street.

The debris was supposed to be buried and compacted in place, but was ultimately dug up and removed to make the ground more stable.

Other change orders were for rebar removal and modifications, structural debris removal, girder sweep modifications and design errors.
A 74-year-old lottery player thought he won $500 in Michigan, but just to be sure, he put on his glasses.

Thats when he realized he had misread his $5 Lucky No. 13 instant game ticket, according to a May 5 news release from the Michigan Lottery.

He had actually won much more.

When I realized I had actually won $500,000, I couldnt believe it, the Hillsdale County man told lottery officials when claiming his prize.

Unsure if he could believe his eyes, the husband said he had his wife check over the ticket as well.

And when she confirmed Id won $500,000, we called our family to tell them the good news, he said.

The man, who chose to remain anonymous, bought his winning ticket at Sand Lake Party Store in Hillsdale, according to the release.

I was cashing in a $40 winning ticket and used my winnings to buy more tickets, the man said. I scratched the tickets as soon as I got in my car and the Lucky No. 13 ticket was the last one that I scratched.

He plans to use his winnings to pay bills and improve his home.

Hillsdale is about 100 miles southwest of Detroit.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

Grandma leaving store gets back in line to buy Maryland lottery ticket  and wins big

Retired cop woke up thinking hed hit the lottery sometime. He won big the same day

Lottery player wins big prize but wasnt too excited  then 3 others checked ticket
A mother and father are facing charges after a fight over a handgun led to their infant daughters death, Texas officials told news outlets.

The 20-year-old dad and 21-year-old mom got into an argument in San Antonio, on April 12, about money and a pistol, WOAI reported. The dad had taken the gun, which belonged to the mom, and she wanted it back.

At some point during the fight, the dad got into a car, with the pistol tucked into his waistband, KSAT reported. Holding their 8-month-old baby in one arm, the mom reached into the vehicle with the other and tried to grab the gun.

The man kept hold of the weapon, and as they each struggled to pull it away from the other, it went off, shooting the mom and the baby, according to the station.

A bullet went through the moms hand and hit the baby girl, police told the KENS. The girl died at a hospital.

The mother was arrested after being released from the hospital, however, the dad ran from the scene, according to the outlet.

He remained on the run until San Antonio police arrested him at a local motel on May 6, a San Antonio Police Department spokesperson told McClatchy News. He was arrested on a charge of injury to child resulting in serious bodily injury.

Mom injects baby with unknown substance, causing cardiac arrest, Ohio cops say

2-year-old shot in head after accidentally knocking gun off shelf, Texas family says

Texas A&M fraternity mourns after 19-year-old dies in fall from New Orleans balcony

Kids had front row seat for home invasion that left father of 5 dead, Ohio cops say
Getting to your vacation rental usually involves unpacking a bit, stretching out after a long day of travel, and planning your next activities -- but checking for hidden cameras is increasingly on the minds of many American travelers.

According to a survey by financial company IPX1031, one in four Americans say they have found a camera hidden at a vacation rental property, and nearly six out of every 10 say theyre worried about hidden cameras where theyre staying.

The cameras are often disguised as everyday, household items. Channel 9s Erika Jackson found several hidden cameras on Amazon for less than $70 each, and she put them to the test with Action 9s Jason Stoogenke.

Jason, there are four hidden cameras in this room -- can you spot them? Jackson told Stoogenke in our conference room.

Stoogenke picked up a clock and questioned if there was a camera in there, but he said his red flags went up when he saw a USB charging block.

I was wondering why there was a random charger here, he told Jackson.

Action 9's Jason Stoogenke questions whether there's a camera in this desktop clock.

A USB charger plugged into the wall contains a hidden camera right above the port.

Channel 9's Erika Jackson shows Jason Stoogenke the hidden camera in a smoke detector above the table.

A wall hanger affixed to the conference room door is also hiding a small camera.

But while he spotted two of the out-of-place cameras after being told about four of them, he was unsuspecting of the undercover wall hanger, and the smoke detector. Both had small holes containing the cameras.

ALSO READ: Mooresville man accused of hiding cameras in smoke detectors to record visitors

Law enforcement officers across North Carolina and the U.S. have been coming across hidden cameras while working their cases.

Im not convinced theres not more cameras in here than the one Im looking at right now, Detective Patrick Dixson with the Iredell County Sheriffs Office said while being interviewed by Jackson. There could be cameras anywhere.

Dixson says its easy for anyone, including criminals, to purchase and use the cameras.

You go on Amazon and type in hidden cameras and youll find hundreds of brands, different types, Dixson said.

Catching the cameras

Spotting the hidden cameras can be hard, but experts showed Channel 9 that detecting the technology doesnt have to be difficult.

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SEE MORE: South Carolina man arrested after Airbnb guest finds camera

Dixsons colleague, Capt. Randy Horton, showed us some spy cameras that can be viewed in real-time using an associated app. Those cameras are Wi-Fi enabled, meaning you should be able to see the signal under your phones Wi-Fi settings or through an app that detects Wi-Fi signals.

Typically, they dont disguise them very well, Horton told Jackson. Its going to say something along the lines of: hidden camera, spycam number one.

Horton warned that this wont apply to cameras that only record to memory cards, but theres still a way to spot those cameras.

Look through with that object ... you should be able to see a small red blinking dot on it to the right, Horton told Jackson while holding a lens detector.

Detectives with the Iredell County Sheriffs Office use hidden camera lens detectors during investigations, but you can also find them online for about $50.

The technology we can buy now for less than $100, maybe 10 years ago it was selling for thousands of dollars, said Skip Graham, the owner of Spy Tech Surveillance and Security Camera Equipment in Belmont.

Graham says he helps customers discreetly protect their homes by installing micro cameras in the most unsuspecting places. Some of his equipment can even bypass the detectors that police have.

Its behind the glass, so even if you had the finder that you were talking that the police department had, its not going to see, Graham said while pointing out a camera hidden in a clock.

That camera did trigger a Wi-Fi connection, though.

See that area highlighted in red? Thats a suspicious signal, Graham said.

PREVIOUS: York County man who put hidden camera in tenant's bathroom avoids prison

Dixson says a few minutes of research can help protect your family from a lifetime of stress.

Just Google and look up common secret recording devices, and just kind of educate yourself on what to look for, Dixson told Jackson.

Can rental properties allow hidden cameras?

There are mixed rules on surveillance cameras at vacation properties, whether theyre hidden or not.

>>Download WSOC's apps to keep up with news and weather wherever you go

VRBO, for example, prohibits surveillance devices inside all properties, but they are allowed outside of the reference if the homeowner discloses it in the listing.

Airbnb says that property owners can have cameras inside if they mention them in the listing, but cameras arent allowed in private spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms.

If youre staying at someones private residence and not booking it through a company or service, you should check any rental agreement for disclosures about cameras at the property.

Channel 9 reached out to all of the companies behind the hidden camera products we purchased. The owners behind the USB charger camera, Alpha Tech, called it the perfect tool to see if your suspicions are true. A representative told us most people use it to boost home security.

(WATCH: Mooresville man accused of hiding cameras in smoke detectors to record visitors)
After a fight with Oussama that led Debbie to compare their relationship to "sticking your finger in a light socket," his sister dished out some tough advice about his "harsh" treatment of loved ones

TLC (2)

90 Day Fiance: The Other Way's Debbie is ready to ditch the drama  and her much younger beau Oussama.

In Sunday's episode, the 67-year-old crystal enthusiast and her 24-year-old Moroccan love fought over her suspicion that he only wanted to marry her for a U.S. green card. Oussama had a heart-to-heart over the matter with his sister Asmaa, who gave him some sound advice on his often "harsh" treatment of loved ones.

"What I wanted to say is if you love each other, make more sacrifices," his sister said. "Maybe she didn't see any actions from your side. Show her. Show her if you really love her. That's what you should do, you two need to talk."

Debbie ultimately packed up her belongings, left Morocco and called it quits on relationship. Before the big breakup, Debbie received a post-fight text from Oussama about meeting up to patch things over. Though she admitted all loving wasn't lost (nor was her hope Oussama could return to the man she thought she once knew), Debbie was hesitant after seeing her partner's "true colors" and felt "a pattern" in his behavior was emerging.

"For Oussama to win me back, it would take an act of God," she told the cameras. "He took our foundation and just put a huge crack in it and made the relationship disintegrate by his lies and his hidden agenda. I don't know how he can write all the wrongs he has done to me."

Related:90 Day's Debbie Tells Protective Son Oussama Became a 'Cold-Blooded Serpent' Before Ending Their Relationship

During their meetup, Debbie directly questioned Oussama's "inability" to inform her of his plan for their lives.

"I feel sad because you lied to me about your emotions and your love, and I can't accept that," said Debbie as Oussama responded, "I talked to you on that day exactly, you ... thought that I just want you for the visa, for the money. No, Debbie. You always think like this."

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TLC

Oussama said the pair's plans were for Debbie to "come here [to Morocco] and make our documents and after, go to the U.S. and live there." But Debbie, in turn, argued that she was supposed to visit Morocco because they "were supposed to get married," noting that marriage is meant to be "special."

And while she did agree that there was a plan for Oussama to follow her to America, Debbie said this was something that was meant to happen "in the future" and not right away. However, Oussama claimed that "this wasn't our plan."

"You're making everything about a visa," Debbie told Oussama in a confessional. "I'm making everything about a life."

Related:90 Day: Debbie Is Ready to Flee Oussama's Family 'Nest'  but He Might Be Kicking Her Out with an Ultimatum

Back at the meetup, Debbie suggested that Oussama doesn't have "enough strong love" for her to "accomplish a life" in Morocco. "You never had unconditional love for me, and I'm glad to know that," she said.

Though Oussama accused her of "never" believing he truly loved her, Debbie argued that wouldn't have visited Morocco if that were true. He then suggested Debbie couldn't "accept" the love he had to offer, leading Debbie to point out that his "love is conditional"  and the condition is her ability to take him to the United States.

Oussama admitted that the constant arguments with Debbie were beginning to shift his initial view of her and their relationship. "This affects my heart too. Day after day and today, it makes me love her less," he admitted later in an interview.

TLC

Oussama then told Debbie directly that she's "changed," though she argued that she's getting "stronger" and that it's a side of her that he doesn't like.

Before walking off, Debbie got so fed up that she declared to Oussama: "I've heard so much BS coming from you, so I'm gonna go on without you. And I'm gonna forge a new path. ... You wimped out on me."

Related:90 Day: Debbie and 'Scum of the Earth' Oussama's Relationship Implodes as He Demands American Visa

Later in the episode, Debbie was seen lugging her belongings to the local airport, believing that Oussama threw their relationship "in the trash." She also said this "experience was like sticking your finger in a light socket."

"He dropped no clues that he was a totally different person than how he presented himself to be," she said. "Somehow, someway I'll recover from all this craziness, but you've got a wiser Debbie now."

She continued, "I'll have to work on myself to be able to trust again, but I can do that! I'm a tough, old broad. I really am. Whatever. I'm just going back [to the U.S.] like, 'Yes, I can.'"

Debbie acknowledged she'd learned some "very hard lessons" from the relationship after being "burnt by the worst of them." She then declared to "never communicate with Oussama again," and stated that she's "got to be smarter and wiser" going forward.

"I'm not gonna hole up, even though it looks pretty good to hole up after this," she added. "But I'm not gonna let the bad guy win. Oussama don't win in this. Debbie's gonna win in this."

TLC Debbie

In the weeks leading up their split, Debbie and Oussama had encountered many rocky relationship moments both before and after she arrived in Morocco.

Primarily, Debbie's adult children had expressed strong reservations about her pursuing a man 43 years younger than her. But the pair also faced issues as Debbie struggled to adjust to Oussama's life in Morocco, with concerns about his family's home being hazardous to her health. His family was also under the impression that Debbie would bring Oussama to the U.S.

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Read the original article on People.
Television anchor Amanda Venegas is stepping away from ABC30s Action News in Fresno to spend more time with her family.

Venegas announced her departure in a short segment Monday morning.

This is a big one, you guys, she said.

I am stepping away from the anchor desk.

The segment was short on specifics about future plans, but Venegas said she had been offered an opportunity outside of news that she believed would be good for her family and allow her more time with her three young children, including one with disabilities.

It feels like this is the right time to kind of work a different schedule.

Venegas graduated from Clovis High School and spent time as an intern with ABC30 while studying journalism at San Diego State. She worked in Billings, Montana, before returning to ABC30 as the AM Live reporter and the morning shows current anchor.

Her final shift will be Friday, May 12, and Venegas promised a look back at some of her crazy reporting back in the day and some of the good times weve had on the anchor desk, too.

Latest departure at ABC30

This is the third such announcement to come from ABC30 in as many weeks.

AM Lives meteorologist Madeline Evans left the station at the end of April to follow the deployment of her husband, a Navy pilot who had been stationed at Naval Air Station Lemoore.

Days later, reporter Alyssa Flores Johansen announced she would be leaving the station to become a public information officer with UC Merced.

Another on-air personality leaving ABC30 in Fresno. This reporter is getting out of TV news
By Brendan Pierson and Jacqueline Thomsen

(Reuters) - A case brought by anti-abortion groups seeking to ban the abortion pill mifepristone nationwide will be heard next week by a panel of three deeply conservative judges hostile to abortion rights, a federal appeals court revealed on Monday.

The Biden administration is expected to urge the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel in New Orleans on May 17 to overturn a court order that suspended the federal government's approval of mifepristone.

The administration will be appealing to Circuit Judges Jennifer Walker Elrod, who upheld a Texas law making it more difficult for abortion clinics to operate in the state; James Ho, who has called abortion a "moral tragedy"; and Cory Wilson, who supported abortion bans as a Mississippi state legislator.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which is named as the defendant in the lawsuit, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Ho did not immediately return a request for comment. A Wilson staffer said he does not comment on pending cases, and a staffer for Elrod referred Reuters to the court's clerk's office, which said it could not comment.

Mifepristone is part of the two-drug regimen used in medication abortion, which accounts for more than half of U.S. abortions.

Led by the recently formed Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, abortion foes claimed in a lawsuit last year that mifepristone is dangerous and that the FDA approved it unlawfully in 2000. Scientific studies have overwhelmingly concluded that the drug, which has been used by millions of women, is safe.

U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk in Amarillo, Texas last month sided with the plaintiffs, finding they were likely to win, and suspended mifepristone's approval while their lawsuit goes forward. The U.S. Supreme Court put that order on hold, meaning that mifepristone remains available while the case is appealed.

In filings last week, the FDA and mifepristone maker Danco Laboratories said Kacsmaryk's order would both harm the public and destabilize the pharmaceutical industry.

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The plaintiffs are expected to file a response brief later on Monday.

"Despite those who insist on playing politics and endangering the lives of girls and women, we look forward to a final outcome in this case that will hold the FDA accountable," Erik Baptist, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said in a statement.

Ho, who was appointed by former Republican president Donald Trump, was part of a 5th Circuit panel that in 2019 blocked Mississippi's 15-week ban on abortions, but in a separate opinion spoke out against the constitutional right to abortion.

The Supreme Court's conservative majority last year used the same case to overturn its landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and find there was no right to abortion enshrined in the U.S. Constitution.

In 2021, Ho was in the majority in a 2-1 ruling refusing to block Texas's six-week abortion ban. The Supreme Court later let that law go into effect.

Ho last month also spoke to the conservative Federalist Society's Dallas chapter in defense of Kacsmaryk, who he called a friend, after the Washington Post reported the then-nominee did not disclose to the U.S. Senate ahead of his confirmation hearing a law review article he helped write that criticized protections for people seeking abortions.

Elrod, who was appointed by former Republican president George W. Bush, in 2019 wrote the majority opinion for a 5th Circuit decision striking down a key part of the Obamacare health insurance law.

Wilson, another Trump appointee, as a state legislator voted to ban abortion once fetal cardiac activity is detected, around six weeks.

Whichever party loses the appeal would be able to ask for en banc rehearing from the full 5th Circuit, which has 12 Republican appointees among 16 active judges serving on the court, and then appeal to the Supreme Court.

(Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York and Jacqueline Thomsen in Washington, D.C., Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot)
By Brendan Pierson

(Reuters) - A group of abortion providers on Monday filed a lawsuit aiming to preserve access to the abortion pill mifepristone as anti-abortion opponents aim to ban it in a separate case.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Charlottesville, Virginia, is similar to one filed in Spokane, Washington by the Democratic attorneys general of 17 states and the District of Columbia in February.

Both lawsuits name the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a defendant and ask for court orders lifting current federal restrictions on mifepristone, which include a requirement that pharmacies be specially licensed to dispense it.

GenBioPro Inc, which sells a generic version of mifepristone, is also suing to block the FDA from restricting the drug.

Mifepristone is the first of a two-drug regimen used to terminate a pregnancy within the first 10 weeks. It is used in more than half of U.S. abortions.

All three lawsuits come in response to a lawsuit last year by anti-abortion groups in Amarillo, Texas federal court challenging the FDA's approval of the drug in 2000. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk on April 10 suspended approval of the drug.

The same day, the attorneys general won an injunction from U.S. District Judge Thomas Rice in Spokane barring the FDA from enforcing any additional restrictions on mifepristone in their states.

Kacsmaryk's order was put on hold by the U.S. Supreme Court while the Biden administration appeals. The appeal is set to be heard by a panel of three conservative, anti-abortion judges of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals next week.

The providers in Monday's lawsuit - Whole Woman's Health, Blue Mountain Clinic, All Families Healthcare and Trust Women - provide abortions in Virginia, Montana and Kansas, which are not covered by the injunction.

"They and their patients require clarity around their continued provision of mifepristone," the lawsuit said. They said the dueling district court orders had created "day-to-day, week-to-week uncertainty" about using the drug.

The FDA declined to comment. Lawyers for the anti-abortion plaintiffs in the Texas lawsuit did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting By Brendan Pierson in New York, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Bill Berkrot)
In February, The New York Times reported on an explosion in migrant child labor in the U.S. Someone said to me, "I thought that was an issue resolved in the 1930s." It wasnt. And the report was not a surprise to those of us who see patterns of abuse of migrants, including children, every day.

The Times also recently reported that the Biden administration had warning signs of this disturbing trend.

In recent years, unaccompanied children, mostly from Central America, have come to the U.S. in unprecedented numbers  more than 250,000 over the past two years  driven by economic desperation, instability and violence exacerbated by the pandemic. A 2008 anti-trafficking law requires that unaccompanied minors from most countries be screened for trafficking and allowed to stay in the U.S. pending their application for status. Many are released to poorly vetted sponsors who exploit them.

Because U.S. immigration policies make it easier to enter the country with a child, there are also many children who are brought here by someone who may or may not be their relative, and once here are subsequently abused, neglected or abandoned.

At the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center, we are working more and more with exploited children.

Migrant children do classwork during a history class for migrant children staying at La Casa de Misericordia on Jan. 7, 2023, in Nogales, Mexico.

Migrant children easily fall off any advocacy radar. However, because of our work with women and at-risk children, we have become aware of trends in trafficking and exploitation here in the U.S.

There is sexual exploitation. Migrant women and children are often brought to houses full of strangers, mostly adult males, who are more than willing to prey upon girls left alone while the parent or guardian is working. We currently have several cases of children who have been sexually abused, the girls sometimes impregnated. Were these citizen children, there would be consequences for breaking the law. But because they are noncitizens, often no one bothers.

We also see child labor trafficking. Newly arrived migrants from the border often end up in local communities where they are subject to ongoing control by traffickers. Children might be held while adults are taken to work. To pay debt for the journey to the U.S., often older unaccompanied juveniles are put directly to work and never see the inside of a school.

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Yet, there are often no repercussions, especially for employers. The White House claimed that it had received reports about migrant child labor, but that they were "not flagged as urgent" and "did not make clear the scope of the problem." Shouldnt that be obvious?

Again, if these were citizen children, the issues would have been addressed immediately.

Subsequent to the February report on the child labor crisis, the Biden administration announced a crackdown on the exploitation of migrant children, including more aggressive investigations of companies benefiting from their work. This is a welcome but late effort, especially given evidence that the administration had warning signs.

As The New York Times noted, migrant children in the U.S. have few options for help.

However, in Greater Cincinnati they do. The Immigrant and Refugee Law Center works in a collaborative effort to ensure that children receive the holistic support they need. We work with child welfare agencies, court appointed attorneys, foster parents, police, prosecutors, therapists, guardians ad litem and case workers  anyone involved in a childs case  to ensure that the rights of the child are protected. We are also developing a strategic medico-legal collaboration with the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine to provide crucial physical and psychological assessments of abused children. Our work in local schools gives us important access to children and the teachers and social workers that interact with them.

Weve seen that people are often afraid to come forward to seek services for migrant children, afraid they will get them deported. However, unaccompanied or abused minors have a Special Immigrant Juvenile Status open to them. Community education is critical, and we urge anyone who knows of any sort of abuse or abandonment of a migrant child to contact us.

Please understand that there are children right here in our community who are being exploited. But we can help them. I think we can agree that the abuse of children, no matter where they come from, is unacceptable.

Julie Leftwich is an international human rights lawyer and expert on gender, peace and security. She is Founder and Executive Director of the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center.

Julie Leftwich

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: We cannot turn a blind eye to the abuse of any child | Opinion
A 33-year-old was arrested after he was accused of kidnapping a man and then demanding a ransom payment from his own ex-girlfriend, Georgia police say.

LaGrange police said Justin Deshun Cameron climbed into the backseat of another mans car Sunday, May 7, and told him, if you knew what was good for you, you would drive.

Cameron then demanded he be driven to his ex-girlfriends location, police said in a May 7 news release. The driver refused because he knew Cameron had previously been convicted of aggravated assault and false imprisonment after an incident with the woman, according to the police department.

After the driver refused, Cameron insisted he call Camerons ex-girlfriend, according to police. Cameron then took the mans phone, threatened to kill the woman and demanded she pay a ransom payment to release the driver, police said.

After the woman sent Cameron $200, he told the driver to take him back to his car, police said. The driver told police he believed Cameron had a gun or other weapon with him while the two were driving around.

Cameron was charged with kidnapping, strong arm robbery and two counts of terroristic threats, according to police.

LaGrange is about 70 miles southwest of Atlanta.

Man kidnaps his ex-girlfriend and goes on a rampage after she escapes, feds say

Woman fakes her kidnapping, then shes caught getting food with neighbors, GA cops say

Accused gang member kills police informant he trapped in his bedroom, SC officials say
Rick Nelson started Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products last fall to combine his love for drawing and building.

NEWARK  He had dreams of taking one path, but circumstances led him to go a slightly different way.

Growing up, said Rick Nelson, I enjoyed building plastic models, HO train layouts and hunting and fishing with my dad. I always enjoyed drawing cartoon characters, cars and trucks and sketches buildings. I guess the desire to draw, as well as build models, piqued my interest in woodworking. As I started seventh grade, I obtained several power tools and had begun making woodcraft-type items as well as wood furniture.

Today, Nelson works under the name Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products.

Its the correct time to focus on my hobby-turned-business, he said.

Nelson, 54, grew up in Heath, graduated from Heath High School in 1986, then attended Ohio State University to study architecture and earned a degree in architectural design at Central Ohio Technical College.

I started work in the field of architecture while in my first year of college, he said, and continued for the next 35-plus years. In that span of time, I worked for several local architects and was the project coordinator at Ohio State in Newark. I was also employed at a large architectural firm in Columbus for several years as a project manager and a retail site surveyor.

But theres more. Much more  which led him to the proudest years of his life.

I also raced motocross from the ages of 13-17, he said. This had a huge impact on the direction of my future career path. When my son Quinten, who was born in 1996, was 4 years old he and I began riding motorcycles together. This led him to start racing motocross later that year.

With Quintens love for racing, Nelson continued, we happened upon a new sport near Circleville, which ultimately set the direction of his racing career as well as my professional career. This sport was kart racing. We traveled the country with Quintens kart racing, competing at the club, regional and national level. We continued until he stepped up to racing cars at the age of 15 at tracks such as Mid-Ohio, Road Atlanta and Daytona International Speedway. Quinten immediately became successful, being awarded the 2012 SCCA Rookie Driver of the Year.

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Rick Nelson, owner of Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products, built rockers for his grandchildren.

This is where Nelsons career took somewhat of a change, as he put it. To follow Quintens racing career, he decided to become an architectural consultant for a design group in Sacramento, California, so he could travel the racing circuit with Quinten and his team.

My consulting continued each year, Nelson said, until Quinten ended his racing to start his family in 2019. Since our racing ended, Ive continued to do my own consulting and design work for private customers, driving racecar transporters  and woodworking.

Nelson officially created Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products in November 2022. He sells his products via word-of-mouth and Facebook.

Rick has always impressed me as a hard and conscientious worker, said Chris Lindner, a Licking County-based CAD technology consultant whos worked with Nelson at architectural firms since the early 90s.

Over the years, woodworking has always been an interest of his, Lindner added. I wasn't surprised to learn he started producing and selling his art. Its beautiful workmanship.

I couldnt be any happier with the direction my lifes path has taken me, Nelson said. Personally, and professionally, Im in the best place Ive ever been. Woodworking is my passion. I love having the knowledge and ability to be able to turn raw wood into a beautiful item for my customers.

Aces of Trades is a weekly series focusing on people and their jobs  whether theyre unusual jobs, fun jobs or people who take ordinary jobs and make them extraordinary. If you have a suggestion for a future profile, let us know at advocate@newarkadvocate.com or 740-328-8821.

For more info

To reach Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products, go to its Facebook page.

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Aces of Trades: Nelson Handcrafted Wood Products combines loves
On the morning of 8 May, the authorities announced an air-raid alert throughout Ukraine.

Source: Air-raid alert map

Details: At 11:56, the sirens began to sound in Kyiv, Volyn, Zhytomyr, Khmelnytsky, Chernihiv, Cherkasy and Kirovohrad oblasts. Then in a few minutes, the alert spread throughout the whole country.

The rapid spread of air-raid alerts throughout Ukraine indicates the threat of strikes by Russian Kinzhal missiles.

The sound of sirens means the threat of missile strikes and airstrikes. At this time, citizens are strongly advised to go to shelter.

Subsequently, Air Force spokesman Yurii Ihnat said that the alert was announced due to the fact that the Mg-31K took off in Russia, and it is capable of carrying Kinzhal missiles.

Update: At 12:36, air-raid alerts began to be cancelled. At first, sirens stopped sounding in Volyn, Rivne, Poltava and Kharkiv oblasts. In a few minutes, the alerts were cancelled throughout the country.

As of 12:47, the danger remains only in Chernihiv Oblast.

Background:

Ukraines Defence Forces downed and destroyed all 35 Shahed drones the Russians deployed to attack Ukraine on the night of 78 May. But there is destruction in the capital as a result of falling debris; five people were injured.

In addition, on the night of 8 May, Russia fired up to eight Kh-22 cruise missiles at Odesa Oblast, some of which did not reach their targets.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
In Europe, airline passengers are guaranteed cash compensation of up to 600 euros if their arrival is delayed by more than three hours. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images

The Biden administration is proposing a new rule to address airline passengers' rights in the US.

It would require airlines to provide cash compensation for flight delays and cancellations.

JetBlue and Alaska Airlines are the only carriers that offer flight credit during lengthy delays, the DOT says.

The Biden administration announced plans Monday to propose a new rule that would require airlines to provide passengers cash compensation and cover the cost of meals, hotels, and flight rebooking in the case of controllable cancellations and delays.

Currently, there are no US laws or regulations requiring airlines to compensate passengers when their flights are delayed  unlike in Europe, where passengers are guaranteed cash compensation of up to 600 euros if their arrival is delayed by more than three hours.

The proposed regulations are a continuation of the department's recent efforts to name and shame airlines over their lack of customer protections after a period of rampant flight cancellations and delays in 2022.

"The FAA and Department of Transportation are doing our part but airlines need to accept their fundamental responsibility to better serve passengers when they don't," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said during the Monday afternoon announcement. "We are here to enforce passenger rights and hold airlines accountable."

The DOT airline customer service dashboard is now available on the newly launched website FlightRights.Gov US Department of Transportation

Along with the announcement came an update to the DOT's "airline customer service dashboard" highlighting which airlines offer cash compensation, travel credit, or frequent flyer miles when a airline-caused flight disruption forces passengers to wait three or more hours from their scheduled departure time.

No major US airline currently guarantees cash compensation for controllable delays or cancellations, the dashboard shows. Only Alaska Airlines and JetBlue offer flight credit or travel vouchers. Alaska Airlines also offers frequent flyer miles, according to the DOT.

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In addition to requiring airlines to provide compensation and cover incurring expenses, the proposed rule would to address timely customer service during widespread flight irregularities like Southwest's December meltdown and create an industry-wide definition of a "controllable cancellation or delay," the DOT said.

As of now, each airline has its own definition of "force majeure" events. Typically, if a delay or cancellation is caused by circumstances outside the airline's control, such as weather, passengers are not entitled to any kind of compensation. However, some airlines' definitions are incredibly broad and cover any event that cannot be "reasonably foreseen," including issues such as shortages and strikes.

Implementing the proposed rule could take years and see legal pushback from the airline industry. For comparison, the department's 2021 proposal that would require airlines to refund passengers for delayed luggage and broken WiFi still has not taken effect.

Are you a flight attendant, air traffic controller, or pilot? We want to hear your thoughts about the upcoming summer travel season. Email this reporter from a non-work address at htowey@insider.com

Read the original article on Business Insider
Alabama softball will be the No. 5 seed in the SEC Tournament, which starts Tuesday in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

The Crimson Tide (38-17, 14-10 SEC) will start play Wednesday against the winner of Mississippi State and Missouri at 4 p.m. CT on SEC Network. Alabama swept Mississippi State and earned a series win over Missouri but was run-ruled in the series finale.

With a win, the Crimson Tide would play Arkansas on Thursday at 4 p.m. on SEC Network.

The Crimson Tide is coming off a series win over Ole Miss that featured Montana Fouts throwing a perfect game on Friday and a one-run complete game on Saturday. Alabama would fall in the finale, 5-4, after allowing four runs in the seventh inning. The good news for Alabama was that the offense was able to come through, scoring 16 runs in the weekend series.

Alabama is led by Fouts and her 1.06 ERA in SEC play, thanks to eight shutouts. She has 142 strikeouts and allowed 63 hits during conference play. Fouts went 12-5 in conference play and is 22-9 on the year. At the plate, Ashley Prange leads the team with 12 home runs and 40 RBIs; Ally Shipman leads the team with a .316 batting average and is second in the conference with 15 doubles.

FULL BRACKET: SEC Softball Tournament 2023 bracket, schedule, TV info

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama softball is No. 5 seed in SEC Tournament, to face winner of play-in
The countrys largest Black-owned media company seeks more than $100 million in damages.

Allen Media Group has filed a lawsuit against McDonalds Corp., alleging the hamburger giant reneged on its promise to spend 2% of its advertising budget with Black-owned media in 2021.

The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles Central District, alleges fraud and false promises and seeks more than $100 million in damages.

Byron Allen at Byron Allens Oscar Gala at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel on March 12, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Michael Bezjian/Getty Images for Allen Media Group / Byron Allen)

During the Black Lives Matter movement, hundreds of corporations made pledges to Black America, and unfortunately, they have not lived up to them, said Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group. McDonalds is one of those corporations that has lied and made false promises. We must hold each and every one of these corporations, including McDonalds CEO Chris Kempczinski, who was caught sending racist text messages, and its Board of Directors, fully accountable. The greatest trade deficit in America is the trade deficit between White corporate America and Black America, and we must close this trade deficit immediately.

Allen Media Group owns several media brands, including theGrio.

McDonalds said in a statement reported Monday that it was proud of its record of investing in diverse communities and partners.

Byron Allen files baseless lawsuits as part of a public smear campaign against our company to try to line his pockets, McDonalds said. We will not be coerced by these in terrorem tactics and will defend ourselves vigorously.

According to the lawsuit, McDonalds didnt spend anywhere close to 2% of its ad budget with Black-owned media in 2021, a number that was supposed to increase to 5% in 2024.

The lawsuit called McDonalds plans to increase its ad spending with Black-owned media a lie. Allen Media Group, with 90% of the Black-owned media market, is the countrys largest African-American-owned media company.

Given the paltry amounts McDonalds was spending with AMG in 2021 when it made its pledge, there is no way McDonalds was spending 2% of its advertising budget, the company said in a press release.

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Skip Miller, a partner in Miller Barondess, LLP and counsel for Allen Media Group, said, This is a groundbreaking lawsuit based on a California law  Civil Code 1711 that holds corporations to their public promises and thereby redresses corporate fraud. Thats exactly this case.

He added, Per the lawsuit, McDonalds said one thing and did another. It promised to spend 5% of its billion-dollar-a-year ad budget on African American-owned media  of which Allen Media is over 90%  and has not come close. Per our lawsuit, this is a fraud on our client and on the public. The lawsuit seeks to hold one of the largest corporations in the world responsible for its lies.

Allen Media Group has another lawsuit pending against McDonalds alleging discrimination and seeking more than $10 billion in damages.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Allen Media Group sues McDonalds, claims fraud, false promises appeared first on TheGrio.
Alta Resources will unveil on Tuesday its new $27.6-million building located at Skyplex on Paul J. Doherty Parkway in Fort Myers. (Photo: Alta Resources)

Alta Resources is set to unveil its new $27 million Skyplex building on Tuesday, ushering in an expansion to bring over 350 jobs to the Fort Myers area.

Making the move from its prior office in Gateway, the new three-story, 98,000-square-foot building has recently been completed after officials first announced the project back in 2019. While factors, such as the pandemic, supply chain, and construction shortages, delayed the original targeted completion, Alta Resources was able to finish the building and move their workforce from their previous Gateway location.

Alta Resources annouces new offices Alta Resources unveils plans for new offices at Skyplex in Fort Myers

More news around Southwest Florida What we know about the current status of Cape Coral's Yacht Club.

Since establishing its Fort Myers presence in 2013, the Wisconsin-based customer-management business-process outsourcing company has thrived due to its labor force of over 7,000 full- and part-time employees and its support for its globally recognized clients, such as Stellantis and Kellogg Company.

Alta Resources CEO and chairman Jim Bere spoke to the News-Press Friday, sharing insight into the last four years as their long-awaited project was developing and what this expansion means for their company.

Alta Resources will unveil its new $27.6-million building located at Skyplex on Paul J. Doherty Parkway in Fort Myers, CEO Jim Bere shares what this means for the SWFL community.

Here's what residents can expect from Atla Resources's upcoming expansion and move into their new Skyplex location:

What are some highlights of this expansion and new location in Fort Myers?

Located on Paul J. Doherty Parkway, the new facility boasts a lot of upgrades and new technology, providing multiple spaces for employees to let off steam in. Features of the new office building include a new cafeteria, new kitchenettes, game rooms, outside patios, walking trails, and a sidewalk system.

Eager to debut it, Bere said the biggest highlight of the new facility is that they were able to design it to fit their organization and their workforce.

"The most important people in our organization really are the frontline individuals who are, either through chat or texting or voice, talking to the consumers of our clients and we just want to make sure we're providing them a great place to work, that they know that we really, really care about them," Bere said.

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All the building stages were exciting, but Bere said it definitely felt different seeing it completed. As of recently, all employees have moved in and have expressed their excitement to finally be in the space, many trying out the fun features.

"It really made you feel like all this effort and work that we took to put it together was really worth it and seeing the people in there  that's when it was like wow, this is real," Bere said.

What have the past four years looked like for you and your team?

"Other than being the most tumultuous years in Florida, it was no big deal," Bere joked.

Running out of space, the original plan was to do an expansion five years ago. Alta Resources then revealed their well-kept plans for a multimillion-dollar building at Skyplex around the busy Southwest Florida International Airport in April 2019.

"It was built to be an expansion but even in that context, we wanted this to be the best building that we had, so it was going to be an improvement from any of the facilities that we had anywhere in the United States or other countries that we have a workforce."

They started breaking ground and planning for their dream facility, then came March 2020.

"The pandemic was absolutely  I mean, it was really amazing and that was also a great testament to our workforce. Basically in a matter of weeks, we had to send every single person home. We were so fortunate, we had a technology system that really enabled us to use a centralized system that we could take that work out, but we needed computers for everybody. We needed laptops, we needed the technology and to watch how they adapted and then our clients  some clients' world slowed down but other clients picked up in the context of it."

Throughout the pandemic, they were open for business and available. Bere applauds the work of his employees, as well as the entirety of Southwest Florida, during this time.

He also recalls how the pandemic slowed down the timetable, taking longer to get permits and materials.

"The whole world was just kind of upside down, so all the things that everybody experienced, we experienced that too so it did take significantly longer than we thought it would take to build (the new building)," Bere said "Then we had supply chain issues that were starting to show up. Then as we're getting close to the finish line, Ian comes along. I can't imagine more things that kind of were thrown in our way, but at the end of the day, we persisted and we're opening this building and we are really, really excited about it."

While the path from design to building to completion was rocky, Bere says it also speaks for all of Southwest Florida and what the last four years have taught everyone. While highlighting his own employees efforts, he also mentioned how residents have rallied to help each other and show resilience in the face of adversity.

How will this new expansion bring new jobs?

Alta Resources is seeking roughly 350-400 new employees during its expansion.

They currently have 8,000 employees worldwide, with about 700 in the Fort Myers location. Approximately half of those employees work remotely and the other half choose to come into the office.

Bere said it reflects the growth as an organization. For example, suddenly one of the company's clients may double the size of their business. So what may have started as a need for 100 people will shoot up all of sudden to 200 or 300 people, Bere said, adding that how that need goes up is really dependent upon the results that Alta produces for them.

"We're doing a great job caring for their customers and helping them build their businesses and these are some of the largest companies in the world that we're working for," Bere said.

Some of the roles they are looking to hire are:

Frontline workers

IT jobs

Leadership roles

"That's probably the biggest need is what we would call our frontline, those individuals who are really answering those calls or we work with social media a lot. We monitor social media for some of our clients and it's up to people working on that," Bere said. "Then what also comes up is that when we grow, there are leadership positions, there are team leader positions."

Does the current worker shortage worry the company?

The current worker shortage has been on Bere's mind as the expansion occurs. However, he shares that compared to some of their other sites, it hasn't been a problem to attract enough people to their Fort Myers site.

Moving forward, they aim to be more flexible and, unlike other jobs that are solely work from home, they provide hands-on training.

"Our model really is we will use our facility and we have great training rooms, we invest a lot of money on that. So we want to train people as a team, so they get to know each other, they get to know their leaders, they get to understand the products," Bere said. "Some may choose to say I want to continue working in the facility, other people may say I'd like to work from home."

He said they realize they need to be competitive in the marketplace, needing it to be a great place to work and a place where people feel like they belong.

"It needs to be a place where they feel they want to move up in their career, that there are opportunities," Bere said. "If we can create that and do that right, our belief is we will get enough people and we're optimistic about it."

In total, how much was the new building?

The new Skyplex building cost $27.6 million.

What are your upcoming goals with this expansion and new building?

Following their official grand opening to the public, Bere laid out his upcoming goals with this new era:

Continue addressing the needs of clients.

Finding the right people to do this work.

Grow and create more jobs within the marketplace

In addressing clients' needs and asks, he shared that accomplishing those tasks as a team is fundamental to the company.

"If we can take care of customers, let them know that they're important, and help them answer their needs in the context of the way these large corporations want them done, it becomes very personal," Bere said. "That's the first objective that we need to do."

Their second objective is to find the right people who want to do this kind of work, Bere stresses that they want employees to enjoy what they do and are eager to form connections. Sticking to their hybrid environment post-pandemic, officials encourage those to connect and find common interests with others in the office.

Building off of a positive workforce, their third goal strives to grow and create more jobs in the marketplace. Bere said they want to continue to be a company where people are attracted to work there and employees recommend them to loved ones.

"We take care of our the people in the organization, make sure that they're healthy, and we're helping them develop and train and learn new things and they feel part of something," Bere said. "And then third, our hope is that we would continue to grow the business in the Fort Myers area."

How will this bring Lee County to a whole other level of business and development?

"I'm a big believer in economic development. I think if we can truly create jobs in the area and allow people to work their way up and get into different roles but have jobs they like to do, that's always healthy for every organization."

Bere discussed his hope for creating more jobs for the Southwest Florida region and setting a pattern for the way companies work, which he admits is still hard to truly figure out post-pandemic. While Alta Resources has slowly started to solve the puzzle, they are adding another piece every day and getting new answers to see what fits.

A big game-changer for them has been open communication.

"We've got a guiding principle around communication and a lot of people think communication is going to be telling you or communicating to you. The most important part about that communication is that we as leaders are listening," Bere said. "We need to listen to the people that are part of our organization and what are their needs and what they want. I think we can be a model that in Southwest Florida, in Fort Myers."

They also have plans to continue to grow their site in Southwest Florida, however, they don't know what that looks like time-wise or if that means more facilities in the future.

Lastly, they are striving to give back more to the community they have been a part of for the past decade, already partnering with United Way so far. Bere said if they are growing, they have more opportunities to become engaged in nonprofits and organizations.

"We'd like to see our people involved in the organization, involved in different nonprofits, and what they do is unbelievable, just the stories of what people have done and they really want to make a difference," he said. "When you're growing and you have a group of people say that we want to give back, we want to make this a better place to live and for us to be part of that would be a real privilege."

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: 350 jobs to come with new Alta Resources location: Here's what we know
will.i.am has joined in sharing his own 2 cents on the state of artificial intelligence (AI) in music.

Over the past few months, online debates have sparked on whether AI is the future of music. From people creating viral songs with Drakes and The Weeknds voices to those releasing an AI-generated Travis Scott album, the trend has been seemingly nonstop.

During an interview with SiriusXM, will.i.am broke down his viewpoint on the music industry as a whole, which has three levels of industries within it: touring, publishing, and recording. The rapper believes an incoming fourth industry will be accessible to anyone with a voice, which he believes is a bigger issue for concern than just AI-generated tracks.

Everyones compromised because there are no rights or ownership to your facial math or your voice frequency, will.i.am said. Forget songs. Banks, people calling up your bank pretending to be youJust family matters and wiring money.

He continued, You getting a FaceTime or a Zoom call and because theres no spatial intelligence on a call, theres nothing to authenticate if this is an AI call or a person call.

During the course of the interview, will.i.am emphasized that the urgent matter is protecting ones facial math rather than whats been in the headlines regarding AI-generated music.

I dont own that, he said. I own the rights to I Gotta Feeling. I own the rights to the songs that I wrote, but I dont own the rights to my face or my voice? Theres new laws and new industries about to [boom]. And this time next year youll be like, Oh, will.i.am said that on that radio station. The fact is these are all new parameters that were all trying to navigate around because the technology is that amazing. And with amazingness comes regulations and governance that we have yet to implement on the tech.

While there have yet to be regulations on AI-generated music, companies are fighting back. As previously reported by AfroTech, Universal Music Group requested that streaming services block AI from having access to copyrighted content.
I used this neck fan every day on my last vacation, and now it's on sale. Image via Amazon.

If recent heat waves are any indication, summer 2023 is likely going to be a scorcher in many parts of Canada.

That's why a neck fan has become one of my must-have products when travelling or spending long days in the sun. Specifically, the JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan, which was recommended to me by a friend as a way to cool down when you're outdoors.

Normally retailing for $70, the neck fan is on sale now on Amazon from $50  and it's a must-have for warm weather.

What is it?

This top-rated portable fan is winning over Amazon shoppers with its lightweight and versatile design, which conveniently sits around your neck for hands-free relief from the heat. Since this bladeless design is both lightweight and totally portable, its a great choice for outdoor sports, yard work, or just everyday use.

Equipped with a powerful and rechargeable battery, this fan offers up to 16 hours of use. It features 78 ventilation holes that deliver air to the face and neck for 360 degree cooling, with a dust- and sweat-proof design. Its available in four colours (white, pink, blue and green) and offers three speeds to choose from.

First impressions

I was skeptical about the JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan, initially thinking them kind of silly-looking. However, when I arrived at the airport in Orlando, I had to quickly eat my words  just about as soon as we landed, I was whipping the fan out of my bag and onto my neck.

I was impressed by the fan's ability to blow air when in use, helping to provide some relief from the heat and humidity. The third and highest setting proved to be the most useful for me, and earned this fan a spot in my list of everyday essentials when hitting the theme parks.

Essentials for a day at Walt Disney World: a backpack, water bottle, and portable fan.

As temperatures soared past 30C daily (not factoring in humidity), I found myself reaching for the neck fan on several occasions. However, since I was using it at the highest setting, I did notice that the battery life didn't hold up as long as I'd hoped.

If you do plan to use this fan for yourself, I'd recommend learning from my mistakes and keeping a power bank and charging cable on hand to avoid having the battery die on you halfway through the day.

What others are saying

So far this hands-free fan has earned a 4.3-star rating from more than 32,000 customer reviews, with shoppers praising its power and comfort. Whether youre travelling, spending time outdoors, or just in need of a quick way to cool down, the JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan is a must-have for warm weather.

According to reviewers, this fan is silent enough [and] lightweight," and "moves a good amount of air. Shoppers who sweat a lot have even called this gadget a godsend for use during work or as an antidote to hot flashes.

One reviewer raved that "this neck fan has been awesome" during menopause, while another called it "the best thing since sliced bread."

Many reviewers have noted that this fans airflow at the back of the neck is not as strong as they had hoped, but since it comes with a "lightweight" and "inconspicuous" design, shoppers say that its worth the tradeoff.

Verdict

Even at its current sale price of $50 (in the green), this portable fan may not be the most affordable version on the market, but its hands-free design and effective cooling make it a top pick ahead of summer. With a quiet motor and bladeless design, shoppers say it'll cool you down and is useful in a variety of situations.

After using it myself, I'm glad to have the JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan as a way to stay cool on hot days. However, I'll be sure to always have a charger on hand for backup too.

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
Amazon announced Monday the launch of its new unit Amazon MGM Studios Distribution, which will allow the company to license Amazon Originals and other titles to third-party media companies, which could include streaming services (free, ad-supported or subscription) and cable TV.

For the first time, titles such as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, Coming 2 America, Goliath, Hunters, The Tender Bar, The Tomorrow War, The Voyeurs and Without Remorse, among others, will be sold to other media outlets following their initial run on Prime Video.

While the company has distributed shows before, this new venture will be on a much larger scale. Plus, Amazon Originals are mainly exclusive to Prime Video, making it an enticing sale for companies looking to have popular titles on their platforms.

Warner Bros. Discovery made a similar move in January when it struck deals with Roku and Tubi to license 2,000 hours of content, bringing titles like Westworld, The Bachelor and Cake Boss to free ad-supported (FAST) streaming services.

The launch of Amazon MGM Studios Distribution will also allow the company to handle sales of MGM-owned franchises James Bond, Rocky and Creed, as well as The Handmaids Tale, Fargo and Vikings. Last year, Amazon acquired MGM for $8.5 billion, giving the company access to more than 4,000 films and 17,000 TV series.

The launch of Amazon MGM Studios Distribution reinforces our commitment to bringing the very best content to audiences everywhere worldwide, Jen Salke, Amazon Studios head, said in a statement. With the integration of MGM, we wanted to take advantage of the existing team to expand our business in ways that will greatly benefit our customers around the world.

Later this month, buyers will be introduced to Amazon MGM Studios Distribution at the L.A. Screenings, an international TV marketplace.

According to Chris Ottinger, who will lead Amazon MGM Studios Distribution, the unit will offer flexible bundles, reported Deadline, so sellers can create bundled content packages that work for them. This strategy will likely allow the company to stand out from competitors.

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The news comes a week after Amazon announced plans to bring hundreds of Amazon Original titles -- including Reacher, The Terminal List and Goliath -- to its ad-supported free streaming service Amazon Freevee.

Amazon also introduced new Fire TV Channels, which will allow users to access more FAST channels, like NHL, Tastemade Travel, TMZ and more.
The U.S. has been slower to embrace the EV than countries in Europe or Asia, but that might be because their expectationsat least in regard to one metricare higher.

A recent study by Bloomberg found that American drivers expect a range of 300 miles from their EVs. That figure, which is increasingly becoming the standard for premium battery-powered vehicles sold in the U.S., is far higher than the expectation of drivers in Europe and China.

More from Robb Report

The average range of an EV sold in the U.S. has risen dramatically since the launch of the Tesla Model S a decade ago. In 2013, the average range of an American EV was 128.5 miles; last year, it was 290.8 miles. The most recent figure far outpaces the average range of a battery-powered vehicle sold elsewhere in the world, which was 216.9 miles in 2021, the last year the news service has data from. It would seem that a big part of the reason for the difference in range is the expectations of consumers. Not only do most Americans want their EV to have a range of 300 miles, only 10 percent would accept a range under 200 miles, according to another Bloomberg study from last year.

The Ford F-150 Lightning has a 300-plus-mile range when equipped with an Extended Range battery

Since the average commute in the U.S. is just 55 miles per day, its easy to wonder why American feel they need a big EV with a long-lasting battery that can drive 300 miles on a single charge. The news service notes that there are several reasons for high-range expectations, though. Americans spend more time in their car than people in other countries, combining to drive more than four trillion miles per year, a third more than any other country. Because of that, range anxiety is a real thing, especially since our charging infrastructure is still lacking. Additionally, advertised rangeseven those certified by the EPAarent always replicable in the real world. Factors such as the use of a climate control system, driving through bad weather, and stop-and-go traffic can all see a 250-mile battery struggle to last for 90 miles.

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In 2022, 8 percent of new cars, SUVs and trucks sold in the U.S. were plug-in, according to Bloomberg. That was a new record for the country, but trails far behind the number in China (30 percent) and Europe (32 percent). But with the magic 300-mile range becoming increasingly commonplace statesideand EVs like the Lucid Air with ranges in excess of 500 milesits not hard to imagine the country starting to catch up with its peers in the years to come.

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Click here to read the full article.
PARIS  Andy Murray is hoping his first title in three years will be platform to build on after a bit of a struggle over the last 18 months.

With the French Open looming, Murray won an ATP Challenger event in southern France over the weekend for his first tournament victory since 2019  and first on clay since 2016.

Murray won the second-tier event in Aix-en-Provence by defeating 17th-ranked Tommy Paul 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 in the final.

This last year, 18 months has been a bit of struggle with my game, Murray said. But (my team) have been there supporting me and working with me to try and get better. We keep going from here.

Murray, a former top-ranked player with three Grand Slam titles, claimed his first tournament victory since winning in Antwerp back in 2019.

His previous title on clay was the 2016 Rome Masters.

It was Murrays third challenger title and first since 2005. According to the tour, the gap of 17 years and 8 months between challenger titles was the longest ever.

Murray climbed to No. 42 in the ATP rankings, his highest since returning from two hip operations in 2018 and 2019.

The French Open starts on May 28.

Andy Murray wins 1st title since 2019 originally appeared on NBCSports.com
PG County Exec Angela Alsobrooks Delivers The State of the County Budget Address

Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks delivers the State of the County Budget Address at the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center in College Park, Maryland on March 15, 2023. Credit - Marvin JosephThe Washington Post via Getty Images

Angela Alsobrooks, the executive of Prince Georges County and one of the most prominent Democrats in Maryland politics, will launch her campaign for the Senate this week, sources familiar with the matter tell TIME, joining an already crowded field vying to replace outgoing Sen. Ben Cardin.

Alsobrooks plans to announce her Senate bid in a video on Tuesday, sources say. She will follow that with a rally in her home county on Wednesday, flexing her ability to pull a crowd at the early stages of the campaign. She is also expected to draw the endorsements of several high-profile Maryland Democrats in the coming days and weeks, potentially positioning her as an early frontrunner for the coveted open seat.

Since 2018, Alsobrooks has led the second largest county in Maryland but the one with the most Democratic voters. Maryland insiders suspect that will provide her a competitive advantage over her challengers. PG County proved decisive in the 2022 Democratic primaries, particularly in the race for governor, in which Wes Moore won the county by 16% over Tom Perez, enabling him to win statewide by just 2%. (That may have been in part from getting a boost with an early endorsement from Alsobrooks.)

At the same time, an Alsobrooks candidacy is likely to galvanize national interest. Shes a single mom and Black woman running at a time when there are no Black women in the Senate.

More from TIME

There are already a handful of other Democrats who have jumped into the race, including U.S. Rep. David Trone and Montgomery County Council Member Will Jawando.

Read more: Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland to Announce Retirement

Trone, who announced his campaign last week with a news release and video, is likely to be Alsobrooks most formidable opponent unless Rep. Jamie Raskin decides to run. Raskin, who recently said that his cancer had entered remission after chemotherapy treatment following a lymphoma diagnosis last year, told TIME last week that hes taking the month of May to make a decision.

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Trone, on the other hand, has already assembled a campaign team and is preparing to pour a fortune into securing a Senate seat. A wealthy businessman who founded the Total Wine and More retail chain, hes told associates that he plans to spend as much as $50 million of his own money on the campaign, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Trone has a history of self-funding his bids for elected office. It hasnt always worked. In 2016, Raskin defeated Trone in a three-way Democratic primary to replace Chris Van Hollen when he vacated his House seat to run for Senate. Raskin raised and spent about $1 million on that contest compared to the roughly $17 million Trone injected from his own pocket. (Trone won a House seat in an adjacent Maryland district two years later.)

Alsobrooks, 52, has been expected to run for Cardins seat for months. Trone seemed to tacitly acknowledge that she or Raskin would be favored when he unveiled his bid last week. I know I wont be the establishment choice, he says in his campaign video.

Yet Alsobrooks is likely to face headwinds on fundraising. Whereas Trone can finance himself and Raskin would have millions sitting in his federal campaign war chest, she will have to fundraise from scratch. Campaign finance laws forbid her from transferring money from her state account into a federal one.

Before her election as Prince Georges County Executive, Alsbrooks served two terms as states attorney, where she was known as a tough-on-crime prosecutor. During her tenure, crime dropped by 50% in the county, with homicides falling by 40%, rates that were consistent with national trends at the time. As a fellow Black female prosecutor, she befriended Vice President Kamala Harris when Harris was San Franciscos district attorney. Alsobrooks supporters expect her record on crime to be a featured part of her campaign.

Her candidacy will also come at a time when Maryland Democrats are ardently trying to diversify their representation on Capitol Hill. There are currently no women serving in the states Congressional delegation.
Mevlut Cavusoglu

Washington has said that the S-400 system excludes Turkey from the modern Western F-35 fighter aircraft program, so it offered Ankara to transfer control of the system to the United States or another country, including Ukraine.

Read also: Turkey finally stops transit of sanctioned goods to Russia

The U.S. asked us to send the S-400s to Ukraine, and we said no," Cavusoglu said, adding that the proposal was "unacceptable as it sought to infringe on Turkish sovereignty."

Regarding the F-35 fighter jet program, the Turkish Foreign Minister said his country does not want to return to the program now, but would rather get back the money it had paid, since it has not received the aircraft. At the same time, Turkey wants to buy F-16 fighters and spare parts from the United States.

Earlier, Turkish officials said that Ankara bought the S-400 from Russia "for national security purposes" and "no other country has the right to interfere with this."

Read also: Russian businesses are flocking to Turkey, report shows

In 2017, when Turkey signed a contract with Russia to purchase the air defense system, U.S. officials opposed its deployment, arguing that the S-400 would be incompatible with NATO systems. Ankara rejected these concerns, stating that "the S-400 will not be integrated into NATO systems and do not pose a threat to the Alliance or its armaments."

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
Social media users wanting to put on pounds fast tout cyproheptadine as a "miracle drug." This is misleading advice; in many countries the antihistamine is only approved to relieve allergies and while taking the medicine can cause weight gain, experts warned this could have serious side effects.

Across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, women and girls wanting to increase the size of their chests, hips and thighs discuss how they have "tried everything" to gain a few pounds without success until they discovered a "miracle product" which allowed them to go from 110 to 135 pounds in a matter of weeks.

Many say the "secret" is to consume products with the antihistamine cyproheptadine which they say stimulated their appetites and allowed them to gain weight.

On TikTok, the hashtag #cyproheptadine had more than 380,000 views, as of May 8, 2023.

Screenshot of a TikTok video promoting cyproheptadine use, taken May 5, 2023

The trend dates back several years, including a TikTok posted on June 16, 2020 with more than 45,000 views.

"That's ALL I did. I have never been able to gain weight. But these two products DEFINITELY showed results and very quickly," says the text over a video of a woman touting a protein shake and Apetamin syrup, a nutritional supplement which contains cyproheptadine, but is an unapproved drug in the United States.

Allergy treatment

The ingredient cyproheptadine can stimulate the appetite and cause people to gain weight, but its recommended usage has changed over time.

Marie Tardieu, the manager of the allergy medications unit at the ANSM, the French public agency tasked with assessing the safety of drugs, explained that as an antihistamine, cyproheptadine was originally prescribed to relieve allergy symptoms, but received a 1961 approval in France to treat weight loss.

Laurent Chouchana, a clinical pharmacologist at the Cochin-Port-Royal Hospital in Paris said: "There was an indication for 'appetite stimulation in sick people who showed a decrease in appetite, accompanied by weight loss' until 1994, when it was rescinded."

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He said the clinical studies researching the balance of risks and benefits of taking the drug to gain weight were "not very robust," which led health authorities to reduce recommendations of cyproheptadine for this use -- first in France, then in Canada and the United States.

Cyproheptadine for weight gain is allowed in Canada, but always under the advice of a physician. Chouchana said the drug was meant to treat weight loss symptoms associated with an illness and not for people in good health.

Some French social media users have encouraged the use of cyproheptadine under its brand name Periactin.

The Cleveland Clinic page (archived here) for Periactin cautions against the side effects of drowsiness, which can impede the use of heavy machinery and be exacerbated with the consumption of alcohol. It also warns of occurrences of blurred vision and does not recommend use if the patient already has glaucoma.

"This is an older medication with well-known, undesirable side effects," Chouchana told AFP on March 31. "Convulsions, hallucinations and a lot of the time, drowsiness, which can lead to accidents, but there are also more serious effects, such as blood, liver and heart problems, especially if there is an overdose."

Trend born in Africa

In some places in Africa, women have been using cyproheptadine to bulk up their figures for a number of years.

One 2011 study (archive) researching the use of cyproheptadine by the Kinshasa population in the Democratic Republic of Congo found 70 percent of women in this group were taking the drug as a nutritional supplement. The researchers also found the study participants were at a higher risk for obesity, especially because many of them were also taking dexamethasone, a corticosteroid for weight gain.

African YouTubers often discuss Apetamin, a nutritional supplement that contains several vitamins, as well as cyproheptadine. Some vloggers will include promotional links to buy Apetamin products.

Apetamin is illegal in many countries -- including France, the United Kingdom and the US -- but people promote Apetamin and similar supplements such as Super Apeti Plus in French, English and Arabic on TikTok.

People living in places where Periactin is only available by prescription turn to the supplement as it is easy to find and buy online.

These types of products are particularly concerning for Chouchana since "it contains a drug, but it isn't sold or controlled as such."

Risk warnings

On May 2, 2023, the FDA published a warning (archived here) about the dangers of Apetamin in reaction to the network of recommendations for the product on social media.

Searching for Apetamin on Instagram and TikTok in May 2023 on a US server blocks results with a message about illegal drug use and trade.

Screenshot of results of an Instagram search when for Apetamin, taken May 5, 2023

Screenshot of results on TikTok when searching for Apetamin, taken May 5, 2023

Searching for "cyproheptadine" and "Periactin" on TikTok still yields results but among the publications celebrating the drug, there are also users discussing the unwanted side effects.

One TikTok user said: "The only thing I'm doing is waking up, eating, going back to sleep, waking up, eating, going back to sleep."

Chouchana said there are very few cases where it is advisable to take medication for weight loss or gain.

"All drugs carry risks and should not be taken outside of their indication in any medical situation," he said.
Apex Friendship High School students resumed the school day Monday afternoon following an evacuation during the morning.

According to Apex Deputy Police Chief Mitchell McKinney, a bomb threat was made against the school.

Apex police cleared the building and investigated with the help of bomb-sniffing dogs.

No explosive devices were found.

Police will continue to investigate the origin of the threat.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
The man accused of killing eight people and wounding several others in a mass shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday apparently had been working as a security guard and was discharged from the U.S. Army in 2008 because of mental health issues, according to neighbors and an Army official.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, was killed by police, ending the attack.

Garcia joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training, said Army spokeswoman Heather J. Hagan, who said the Army doesnt provide characterization for any soldiers discharge.

According to an Army official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues, though, Garcia was kicked out of the Army due to mental health issues.

Federal officials are looking into whether Garcia expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned that the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts that they believe Garcia used, as well as posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents have interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined Sunday evening to answer questions from the AP, saying of the investigation, we actually dont have a lot.

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The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as the person behind the attack at the mall.

A law enforcement official said investigators have been searching a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The official said police also found multiple weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Two law enforcement officials said investigators also searched a Dallas home connected to Garcia. They spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of an ongoing investigation.

A woman who lives three houses down from the low brick house said she saw a large group of uniformed officers go into the home Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

They went in like real fast, and I seen them do that like twice, said Marsha Alexander, who said officers were still in the area when she went to bed around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. They were gone by Sunday morning.

On Sunday afternoon, a woman named Julie was sitting on the porch of her house, next door to the one searched the day before. She declined to give her last name to an AP reporter but said she awoke from a nap around 6 p.m. Saturday to see four police squad cars and a large group of officers outside her neighbors home.

She said they entered the home and were joined about an hour later by FBI agents and other people wearing plainclothes, who she also took to be law enforcement.

The woman said she did not know her neighbors well, but knew them to be very polite, very nice people. She said the man she now understands to have been the shooter was always friendly and would wave or honk his horn as he came and went.

She and another neighbor, Patricia Crone, said Garcia apparently worked as a security guard, and that they would see him in his work uniform sometimes.

At about 2 p.m. Sunday, a man entered the home that was searched, but when reporters knocked on the door and waited, no one answered.
FREEHOLD - An Asbury Park man has been sentenced to prison in the sexually abuse of two teenage relatives over the course of several years, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Monday.

Walter Orlando Perez-Ramos, 35, has been sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison for the crimes after being convicted at trial last fall, Santiago said. He will be required to serve at least 85 percent of the first 16 years of the sentence before being eligible for parole.

On May 3, 2021, the Asbury Park Police first received information regarding the abuse of the two victims, then ages 16 and 17, according to the announcement. An investigation found that the abuse involved dozens of incidents on various dates from May 2015 through May 2020, each involving inappropriate touching.

Perez-Ramos was arrested later in May 2021 and remained in custody at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Santiago said.

After the weeklong trial that ended in November 2022, Perez-Ramos was convicted on two counts of second-degree sexual assault, two counts of third-degree endangering the welfare of a child, and a single count of fourth-degree criminal sexual contact, the prosecutor said.

During Fridays sentencing hearing, Judge Jill G. OMalley also ordered that Perez-Ramos register as a sex offender under Megans Law and be subject to Parole Supervision for Life upon his release, the announcement said.

Jenna Calderon covers breaking news and cold cases in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Before coming to the Press, she covered The Queen City for Cincinnati Magazine in Ohio. Contact her at 330-590-3903; jcalderon@gannettnj.com

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Asbury Park man sentenced for sexual abuse of teen relatives
Newly-released audio has captured convicted killer Alex Murdaugh blaming his family dogs for the death of his housekeeper  as he now attempts to walk back the claim five years later.

In a 2018 interview, the disgraced legal dysnasty heir claims that he had gone to work on the morning of 2 February 2018 when he received a call from his wife Maggie.

In the call, Maggie told him that their longtime housekeeper Gloria Satterfield had been injured at the Murdaugh family home on their 1,700-acre Moselle estate in South Carolina.

I went to work that morning and I received a phone call from my wife that Gloria was injured  seriously injured  and asking me if I could come home, he says.

I immediately left and headed to Moselle.

He says he sped to the home  making the journey in around 10 minutes  and arrived before emergency responders.

On arriving I found Gloria, my wife and son Paul and employee Ronnie Freeman in the landing area at the bottom of the steps, he says.

Murdaugh says that Gloria was sitting up and there was a big pool of blood on the ground.

A lot of blood on the side of her face and shortly after I arrived EMS arrived and tended to her, he says.

Before Satterfield was taken away in the ambulance, Murdaugh claims that he asked her what had happened.

She indicated that the dogs had caused her to fall, he says.

The interview  released on Monday by attorneys representing Satterfields sons  was conducted back in 2018 as part of an insurance claim brought over her death.

Satterfield, who worked for the family for more than 20 years, died on 26 February 2018  three weeks after she was found at the bottom of the steps leading into the Murdaugh familys home.

Alex Murdaugh testifying at his murder trial (AP)

At the time, Murdaugh claimed that she had tripped over the familys dogs and hit her head, and her death was regarded as an accidental fall.

However, her death certificate cited her manner of death as natural and no autopsy was ever carried out.

In an investigative report accompanying the claim in November 2018  and also released on Monday  the investigator wrote how Murdaugh had claimed Satterfield indicated something to him about the dogs tripped her up.

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Alex told me that he had heard, from one or more of Satterfields relatives he cannot really recall, was that Satterfield had reported that the dogs tripped her up, the report added.

The document also included accounts from Murdaughs wife Maggie and son Paul  who he brutally murdered on the grounds of the same Moselle property three years later in June 2021.

Both Maggie and Paul said that they were inside the house sleeping when they were woken by the sound of the familys dogs barking, the report states.

Maggie said that she had heard the dogs barking in an unusual tone, as if something had happened and went outside to find Satterfield lying on the ground with a bleeding head wound.

She said that Satterfield was conscious but was mumbling gibberish and did not what happened, the report states.

At the time, the familys four dogs  Bubba, Blue, Bourbon and Sassie  were near Satterfield.

Satterfield never told Maggie why Satterfield fell, the report says.

Gloria Satterfield died in a trip and fall at the Murdaugh home in 2018 (Provided)

Maggie said that she believed one or more of the dogs had caused Satterfield to trip and fall, however, describing the chocolate lab Bourbon as just horrible and always whining, seeking attention, and getting excited.

Paul, meanwhile, said in an interview he gave that he remembers that his father Alex arrived and asked what happened and that Satterfield said something about dogs.

The interview and investigative report were released by attorneys Eric Bland and Ronnie Richter on Monday as they push back on Murdaughs sudden change in version of events as to what happened to Satterfield  and accuse the serial liar of lying about lying.

Following her death, Murdaugh claimed he would bring a wrongful death lawsuit against himself on behalf of Satterfields two sons.

He did but then allegedly stole $4m in settlement money for himself and the housekeepers sons didnt get a dime.

Murdaugh is now charged with stealing $4m from Satterfields family as part of a decade-long multi-million-dollar fraud scheme where he stole millions from his law firm and legal clients.

He is also being sued by insurance company Nautilus for insurance fraud after he allegedly pocketed the money meant for the Satterfield family himself.

Last week, in court documents responding to that lawsuit, Murdaugh made a bombshell confession claiming he had invented the story that Satterfield tripped over the dogs  claiming he did so in order to ensure the life insurance company paid up.

No dogs were involved in the fall of Gloria Satterfield on February 2, 2018, the documents read.

After Ms. Satterfields death, Defendant invented Ms. Satterfields purported 2 statement that dogs caused her fall to force his insurers to make a settlement payment, and he stated that she was not on the property to perform work.

He also went onto claim that Satterfields sons  his alleged fraud victims  should also be facing legal action from Nautilus because they have recovered more than $7.5m as a result of the wrongful death suit.

If Nautilus never should have made any payment to the Satterfield estate and only attempted to do so because it was the victim of fraud, then the parties in possession of a recovery of the money allegedly stolen from Nautilus are necessary parties to an action by Nautilus for recovery of that money because (a) the court cannot accord complete relief among [the] existing parties in their absence, and (b) those persons and entities claim[] an interest relating to the subject of this action and their absence will leave [existing parties] subject to a substantial risk of incurring double, multiple, or otherwise inconsistent obligations because of that interest, he wrote.

Buster, Maggie, Paul and Alex Murdaugh (Maggie Murdaugh/Facebook)

In a press conference on Monday, Mr Richter hit out at the latest misinformation campaign from the well-documented liar.

As if he has not caused enough damage to the Satterfield fam, Murdaugh took additional steps in the lawsuit, he said.

Mr Bland said that Murdaugh was lying by changing his story in an effort to try to sway Nautilus to recoup the stolen money from the Satterfields and not from himself.

He wants to keep the money, he said.

Mr Bland explained that if the dogs did not cause the trip and fall accident, then this would potentially mean that Murdaugh  and the insurance company  would no longer be liable to pay out.

He said that this was merely the latest efforts by Murdaugh to avoid accountability.

Its very convenient that the three people who could contradict Alex are all dead  Paul, Maggie and Gloria, he said.

Questions have long been swirling around Satterfields death after the string of deaths, stolen money and corruption surrounding Murdaugh came to light.

In September 2021, an investigation was reopened into her death and investigators said they planned to exhume her body.

This came just days after Murdaughs financial fraud scheme came to light and three months after the double murder of his wife Maggie and son Paul  who were shot to death on the same property where Satterfield had her fatal fall.

This March, Murdaugh was found guilty of the 7 June 2021 murders and was sentenced to life in prison.

At his high-profile trial, jurors heard how he was motivated to kill his family in a bid to distract from his financial crimes which were on the brink of exposure  including the theft from the Satterfield family.

Satterfields death isnt the only mystery death tied to the South Carolina legal dynasty.

A homicide investigation has also been opened into the 2015 death of Stephen Smith, who was found dead in the middle of a road in Hampton County.

The openly gay 19-year-old had suffered blunt force trauma to the head and his death was officially ruled a hit-and-run. But Smiths family have long doubted this version of events, with the Murdaugh name cropping up in several police tips and community rumours.

At the time of his murder, Paul was also awaiting trial for the boat crash death of Mallory Beach.
A reported assault at an east Erie apartment house on May 1 has become a death investigation for Erie police and the Erie County Coroner's Office.

Andrea Newberry, 43, of Erie, whom police said was found unresponsive in an apartment in the 300 block of East 17th Street on May 1, was pronounced dead on Wednesday at 4:45 p.m. at Saint Vincent Hospital, according to Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook.

An autopsy was performed on Sunday, Cook said. The cause of Newberry's death is pending the results of toxicology testing and further investigation, he said.

More: Erie police probe reported assault at gathering that critically injured 43-year-old woman

Newberry was taken to the hospital and was initially reported by police to be in critical condition after city police were called to the apartment on May 1 at about 6 p.m. Erie police reported a day after the incident that witnesses told officers Newberry was in a physical altercation with a man.

Police took the man accused of assaulting Newberry, 39-year-old Joseph L. Knight, into custody from the East 17th Street residence on the evening of May 1. He was arraigned the next day on a first-degree felony count of aggravated assault, a second-degree felony count of strangulation and misdemeanor counts of simple assault and recklessly endangering, according to police and court records.

Erie 2nd Ward District Judge Ed Wilson set Knight's bond at $125,000. Knight remained in the Erie County Prison Monday.

Detectives wrote in the criminal complaint filed against Knight that he and Newberry, who were in a relationship and lived together at the East 17th Street apartment, had gotten into a physical altercation and that Knight choked Newberry, rendering her unconscious.

Witnesses described the incident as a drawn-out argument between Knight and Newberry, according to information in the complaint. Police were told that Newberry was sitting on a sofa in the living area of the apartment when Knight began choking her, which witnesses described as lasting three to five minutes, detectives wrote.

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After choking Newberry, Knight reportedly smashed a vacuum before leaving the residence, according to the complaint.

Detectives wrote that life-saving measures were started on Newberry after Knight left the residence, and that emergency medical services were notified and informed that there was no pulse.

Once first responders arrived, it was 27 minutes before a pulse was restored, investigators wrote in the complaint.

Erie police said they are continuing to investigate the incident and are awaiting the results of the autopsy.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Woman reportedly assaulted at Erie apartment dies days after incident
Ashley Marchuck, 32, sits at Heritage Park in Taylor on March 24. A lot of people that get diagnosed later in life will trigger a mental health crisis and thats what happened to me. I was having a lot of anxiety attacks and took a leave from work. I realized it was actually a sensory issue, said Marchuck, who was unaware she was autistic until a couple of months before her diagnosis. There are a lot of people that maybe dont realize they are autistic and may be struggling.  Im still learning.

It wasn't until Ashley Marchuck started experiencing frequent anxiety attacks at work  almost every day  that she started to suspect she might be autistic.

Working at Starbucks, she was bombarded with loud noises such as the whirr of the coffee machines, the music playing and the conversations among customers. The sensory overload was too much. The anxiety attacks, leaving her sweaty and panicked, wouldn't stop. Marchuck took a leave of absence to figure out what was going on. At 31 years old, she was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

She'd realized that her anxiety attacks were a symptom of sensory issues related to autism, she said.

"It basically takes a mental crisis to get diagnosed," said, Marchuk, now 32. "And that's how it was with me, unfortunately, you know, having those anxiety attacks for months."

While autism is traditionally associated with diagnosis in childhood, more and more adults on social media say they are autistic, though data on adult diagnoses in the U.S. does not appear to exist. Women and people of color have often been overlooked in diagnoses and in stereotypical depictions of autism in media, said advocates and autistic adults. And those missed diagnoses have left some for decades without help in higher education or the workplace.

Willow Moon, 27, of Kalamazoo, still wonders why his autism went missed through childhood, even though he showed some signs socially.

"I was also very lonely," he said. "It makes me wonder why that wasn't noticed."

Why some go without a diagnosis

Definitions of autism have evolved significantly over the past several decades, with more research into the condition and the elimination of Asperger's syndrome from the diagnostic manual that medical professionals use.

Toby Kellk, a clinical psychologist in Huntington Woods, started working with children but more recently has begun evaluating adults for autism spectrum disorder. In many cases, she has evaluated adults who probably had fewer support needs as children and who flew under the radar until they were older.

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"Our conceptualization (of autism) really was geared towards more of a population that had higher support needs," she said. "This idea of adults who have functioned incredibly well didn't really align with our idea."

But adults diagnosed past childhood said they wished they'd known sooner, because they would have had a better understanding of social issues. For example, 23-year-old Leah Wathen spent much of her life masking autistic traits, she said, and feeling uncomfortable in social circumstances, never knowing why. Masking autistic traits can be exhausting, she and others said, and research suggests may be linked to anxiety.

Leah Wathen, 23, holds a photo of herself as a toddler at her home in Kalamazoo on Sunday, March 26, 2023. "I didn't know who I was for so long. I was very shy and reserved, so a lot of things were just passed off as 'oh, she's just anxious and quirky,'" said Wathen, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 22. "When you think of autism you think of the stereotypical child, so I never had any idea it could look like other things. Now I can ask myself, how can I be more authentic so that I'm not trying to be someone I'm not all the time?"

In school, Wathen would try to mirror her peers to fit in, taking on personality traits that were not her own.

"I just always felt kind of disconnected," she said.

Autism may have been missed in adults due to stereotypes about behavior, particularly in Black children.

Camille Proctor, founder of The Color of Autism, a national nonprofit based in metro Detroit dedicated to assisting Black families with autistic children, said behavioral issues in Black children are often labeled as "problems" in school and not flags for a possible autism diagnosis.

"You'll have a Black child and then they will exhibit certain behaviors, and immediately that child is labeled as oppositional defiant," she said. "But a white child with that same behavior will get an autism diagnosis or a referral to get an autism evaluation."

However, the demographics of children diagnosed with autism are shifting, according to the most recent data available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2020, a higher percentage of Black, Latino and Asian 8-year-olds than white 8-year-olds were diagnosed, the data show, which could indicate that diagnoses are becoming more inclusive.

How parents can advocate in school

While schools can conduct an evaluation to determine whether a student is eligible for special education services, Proctor also recommends an outside diagnosis through medical or mental health providers. Her organization helps train parents to become strong advocates for their children.

"You have to have an informed parent for them to be an advocate for their child," she said.

The Michigan Alliance for Families recommends parents put into writing their requests to schools for evaluations, and asking for an evaluation early on, as issues  such as behavioral complaints from teachers  arise.

"Don't wait until things are horrible," said Michelle Driscoll, policy coordinator for the Michigan Alliance for Families. "Have that conversation with the teacher and administrator. ... And put that request in writing. It's not required, but just to document what the concerns are. Make the request for a comprehensive initial evaluation for eligibility for special education services."

But identifying autism sooner also comes down to public policy.

Reagan Calley and her dad, Brian, explored Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in southern Utah on a family vacation last week. He's part of an Autism Alliance of Michigan campaign to be more forceful in elevating autism treatment to the level of a civil right.

Brian Calley, former Michigan lieutenant governor and vice chair of the Autism Alliance of Michigan Board of Directors, said identification will expand as early childhood programs expand in the state. And he said pediatricians are conducting more developmental screenings but noted that such screenings won't help vulnerable populations who can't regularly go to the pediatrician's office.

Calley, who is the father of a child with autism, added that society also needs to reduce stigma around the condition. He remembers feeling unsure about seeking a diagnosis at first for his child, fearing what a diagnosis could mean.

"There's still some of that, that happens where people might notice that there's issues challenges, problems, delays, and not ready to seek a diagnosis because of societal stigma," he said.

For Wathen, the benefits of a diagnosis far outweighed any discomfort, she said. She is actively working to raise awareness against the stigma that comes with being neurodivergent.

Leah Wathen, 23, sits with her cat named Firefly at her home in Kalamazoo on Sunday, March 26, 2023. "I didn't know who I was for so long. I was very shy and reserved, so a lot of things were just passed off as, 'oh, she's just anxious and quirky,' " said Wathen, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 22. "When you think of autism you think of the stereotypical child, so I never had any idea it could look like other things. Now I can ask myself, 'how can I be more authentic so that I'm not trying to be someone I'm not all the time.' "

"There's so much education that needs to happen in terms of getting us to a place where people actually understand neurodivergent people and see them as different rather than something that's inherently less than," she said.

Contact Lily Altavena: laltavena@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: When autism isn't diagnosed until adulthood
A new law in New Jersey that took effect on April 10 requires large employers to pay severance to more employees than is required under federal law. Dominick Reuter/Insider

Bed Bath & Beyond will cut another 1,293 jobs in its home state of New Jersey, public records show.

New rules in the state mean the company will need to pay severance to those employees.

State Senator Joe Cryan  a vocal critic  told local media he has not heard of any "non-compliance."

Another group of Bed Bath & Beyond employees in New Jersey will lose their jobs as the company winds down, and it appears these workers will be getting mandatory severance payments from the bankrupt retailer, unlike colleagues who were laid off in previous rounds.

A state lawmaker told local media the company appears to be complying with new rules in its home state of New Jersey that require it to pay severance to nearly 1,300 workers there who will lose their jobs on June 26.

State Senator Joe Cryan, the representative for the township where the national housewares giant is headquartered and a vocal critic of the company's layoff approach, told NorthJersey.com his team hasn't received any indication of "any non-compliance."

Public figures including Cryan and the editorial board of Newark's Star-Ledger sharply criticized Bed Bath & Beyond after Insider reported that an earlier batch of layoffs would be complete a single day before the severance law kicked in  potentially saving the company millions of dollars in obligations.

It is unclear whether the nearly 1,300 workers who were terminated before April 10 will receive any payments, given that the company is not legally required to pay and is now navigating bankruptcy.

Former store manager Bob Burke, whose location in New Jersey closed on April 8, told Insider he is "devastated" by the move that is likely to leave former employees like him with nothing, since their wave of terminations was completed before the rules changed.

"It's really, really unfair," Burke said.

A company spokesperson did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on the matter.

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Cryan sponsored legislation, which took effect on April 10, requiring large employers to pay severance to more employees than is required under federal law.

New Jersey law broadens severance coverage

Mark Diana, a management-side employment lawyer with Ogletree Deakins, previously told Insider the new law requires employers to:

Give 90 days' notice of a mass layoff.

Cover all part-time and full-time workers across all locations in the state.

Pay mandatory severance of one week's earnings per year of service, with no cap on the number of weeks.

The law was drafted following the collapse of Toys R Us and was specifically designed to address large retail companies that employ many workers across several locations. Most retail employees are not covered under current federal layoff rules.

Prior to the bankruptcy announcement, several sources told Insider the company was providing $500 retention bonuses roughly equal to one week's pay  to encourage employees to stay on the job until their store closes.

Bed Bath & Beyond plans to close its doors for the last time on June 30, per filings with bankruptcy court in New Jersey.

Read the original article on Business Insider
UniTaskr was founded in 2015 by Joseph Black, left, and Oliver Jacobs

Best friends Joseph Black and Oliver Jacobs have always shown entrepreneurial spirit as a duo. As school friends they used to sell sweets and drinks to fellow pupils for a hefty profit over the term; as co-founders in their late twenties today they are running a six-figure business called UniTaskr, an app which has the largest network of student and graduate freelancers worldwide.

Initially founded in 2015, the app connects students with employers and has offered well over 10m worth of jobs to students across the UK. It currently has over 300,000 members and supports in excess of 30,000 households & businesses, from SMEs to large scale enterprises, including RedBull, Uber Eats, the NHS and Spotify, and a dozen global Unicorn businesses.

It was at university where the founders saw a gap in the market following the student financial crisis. For us at the time, a number of our peers were graduating but lacked the experience of their sector of choice, recalls Black, or they left their uni as they couldn't afford the cost of living. For us, that felt like a pivotal flaw in the education to employment gap. We wanted to make a difference."

Read More: Behind the brand: Union Hand-Roasted Coffee

They conceived their initial product, Unidosh, which was billed as a student to student service who could buy and sell to each other. They soon worked out that students were hungry to earn money, receptive to tasks but didnt want to spend. A flaw in the concept is how Black termed it. By now, there were 5,000 members on board and they took the decision to open up the buying side to members of the public, from households looking for dog walkers to businesses wanting website builders or photographers.

UniTaskr PRO has launched to give businesses access to hundreds of thousands of student workers

While fellow founder Jacobs heads up the product and design team, Black fronts sales and partnerships. My hat is off to solo founders and I am incredibly fortunate I work with someone like Oliver, admits Black. There are highs and lows and someone to understand that on a personal level has been important. We have kept each other moving.

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Being a young entrepreneur when we started it was hard for us to be taken seriously. We ended up entering a lot of start-up competitions and building up recognition in the space. It has come over time by building PR, doing thought leadership pieces and going on podcasts.

The pivotal step came in September 2019 after rebranding and relaunching as UniTaskr. For years we had tried to find a way to get students on to our app, says Black. The following month, they posted a task asking for 50 students to request a shout out on their social media. It helped too when Blacks younger sister, Kaylee, went to the founders extolling TikToks virtues and asked if she could create and post a tutorial video. Over 20,000 members joined that evening and Kaylee is now a UniTaskr employee leading the US team.

Some social media posts have since hit 40m views, while the founders pivoted from online remote work and 3,000 members to over quarter of a million signed up by the end of the pandemic  and consistently being one of the most popular downloads in App stores.

The UniTaskr app connects students with employers ranging from Spotify to the NHS

Black says: There was this movement and brands became more susceptible towards a student, gig-based workforce given that they are so hungry to build this experience outside of the affordability factors. They have lower overheads and are able to work more affordably but they are hungry to learn. This is ultimately the future of our workforce and if we can work hard together they will graduate with a better leg up.

UniTaskr launched in the US in March and the business has already hit 50,000 members, with over 1,000 members joining every day. Adapting is key to any business and pivoting is the greatest lesson to what we have achieved so far, admits Black. Understanding when an idea isnt working and taking the slightest sidestep can be the difference between impending failure and success.

When UniTaskr was first launched, students didnt have the best perception and credibility from brands perspective to outsource and hire. It has, says Black, been a challenge in its own right. Marketplace is also one of the hardest businesses to build, with a good flow of buyer-seller demand. If you have too many students on the platform and not enough jobs they saturate and people will leave.

The best friends and now co-founders started making money by selling sweets and fizzy pop on the playground for a profit. Photo: UniTaskr

Where UniTaskr believe they can take up the larger market share from their competitors is having the students of today becoming the public of tomorrow, one where graduates are now coming back to the platform to hire students.

Were close to breaking even but we are well on track to being profitable, says Black. Its likely worth millions and we have had people coming in to invest or acquire. We are looking at a 10m valuation but its not liquid. Im excited, though, and we have a big trajectory ahead.

Read More: Behind the brand: How Ooni became market leader in pizza making

"Students in the past have been led to work inflexible jobs that only impact their studies and stress levels, whereas now this allows them to become their own boss. And thats our mission, to help make positive change."

Behind the brand: co-founder lessons

There is a key difference to being a leader and a boss. In my early days when I lacked the experience it was easy to dictate and be bossy. Now we are a team and working together. That has been a key lesson. I'm not naive. I've got a long way to go myself but I treat others how I want to be treated myself.

On building apps

As co-founders we dont have a tech background. Our first product lacked user experience. We tried to find a technical founder and took on the wrong person, leading to us building again. Now we have a fantastic tech team to build long-term. Every developer has a very different outlook on which technology stack to use.

There is no right or wrong in getting to the end goal. If I had the insight now we could have done it differently as apps arent cheap to build. We were young and naive. Having a technical co-founder would have undoubtedly eased the pain.

Watch: Is it financially worth going to university?

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
The Milwaukee Arts Board has given 2023 honors to artists Ben Tyjeski and Paul Druecke, top row, and advocates Jenelle Elder-Green and Carl Bogner.

The Milwaukee Arts Board has named visual artists Ben Tyjeski and Paul Druecke its 2023 Mildred L. Harpole Artists of the Year.

Tyjeski, a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee fine arts graduate, makes handmade tile art as the proprietor of Tyjeski Tile Co. He also is a self-directed scholar of architectural ceramics who's working on a book about Belgian ceramist Carl Bergmans and the Continental Faience & Tile Co. of South Milwaukee. He has been a Milwaukee Public Schools art teacher since 2016. "Ben also works to create a safe and supportive environment for his LGBTQ+ students," the arts board said in its statement announcing his honor.

The work of interdisciplinary artist Druecke has been included in New York's Whitney Biennial, a leading national showcase of contemporary art. But countless Milwaukeeans have walked past his work, too. His "Shoreline Repast" (2017), which looks like a historical marker sinking into the grass but has a prose-poetic text that no historical committee would write, has been part of Sculpture Milwaukee. Since 2018, Druecke also has produced Milwaukee Kitchen, a distinctive made-for-YouTube cooking show.

The arts board also named art collector and advocate Jenelle Elder-Green and independent film advocate and curator Carl Bogner its 2023 Friends of the Arts, awards given to individuals who give exceptional service to the local arts community.

Elder-Green, who began collecting prints by Black artists, has collected art from Senegal, Haiti, Jamaica, Egypt and South Africa in wood, fiber, glass, amber and photography. She has participated in exhibits with the Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee County Historical Society, Inner City Arts Council and other groups.

Bogner, a UWM graduate, teaches film, video, animation and new genres at his alma mater. He was the longtime director of Milwaukee's LGBT Film/Video Festival. A good rule of thumb: If there's an experimental film event in Milwaukee, Bogner has been involved with or has drummed up support for it.

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Artists of the Year receive a $1,500 cash award. Funds for the award come from arts board members.

Former alderman and playwright Wayne Frank launched the board's Artists of the Year program in 1995. The Artists of the Year Award was renamed in 2020 in honor of late arts board member Mildred L. Harpole.

This is the first year that the Milwaukee Arts Board accepted award nominations from the public. The award winners will be honored during an event at 4:30 p.m. June 13 at the Milwaukee City Hall rotunda, 200 E. Wells St.

Past winners include Nirmal Raja, Ck Ledesma, Klassik, Anne Kingsbury, Rosy Petri, Ras 'Ammar Nsoroma, Rosemary Ollison, Ray Jivoff, Tia Richardson, Sheri Williams Pannell, Jane and Chris Flieller, Dasha Kelly Hamilton, Della Wells and Barbara Leigh.

More: Ruth Foundation for the Arts gives $240,000 to Wisconsin groups to fund local artists

More: 2023 Nohl Fellowship winners include Mikal Floyd-Pruitt, Janelle VanderKelen

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Tyjeski, Druecke are named Milwaukee Arts Board's Artists of the Year
A brewery sits next to a small-town North Carolina creek  and beer lovers cant get enough of it.

So much so, it ranks as the No. 1 brewery in the state. Hillman Beer in Old Fort received the top honor after the review website Yelp said it studied comments that customers left over time.

We identified businesses in the breweries category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews, the website wrote in its May 1 report.

The brewery was named a fan favorite after the Asheville areas food and drink scene earned repeated praise. The mountain tourist town recently ranked as one of the best places for beer drinkers and also received a nod for its restaurants and breweries.

Though Hillman Beer has a presence in the beer hub of Asheville, its other brewery about 25 miles to the east earned the recognition from Yelp. The winning brewery is in the town of Old Fort, described as a hidden gem.

Nestled against the beautiful fresh water of Mill Creek the brewery boasts over 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor seating with over 32 taps the business wrote on its website.

On Yelp, several users raved about the creekside setting, helping the business earn five out of five stars. Others were fans of burgers and of course, the selection of beer.

The Old Fort location said it got its start in 2020, more than a decade after Brad Hillman got into homebrewing. He teamed with family members to start the brewery, where the drinks on tap include a dry Irish stout and a blood orange creamsicle sour.

This barbecue joint was named the best in North Carolina. What makes it so special?

Best place for a summer vacation? This NC destination ranks among nations favorites
King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Buckingham Palace after the coronation, photographed by royal photographer Chris Jackson. Handout/Chris Jackson/Getty Images for Buckingham Palace

Chris Jackson has photographed King Charles and Queen Camilla for the last 20 years.

In an interview with Insider, Jackson shared his favorite candid photos from the coronation weekend.

He caught a tender moment between Charles and William, and a rare photo on the palace balcony.

Royal photographer Chris Jackson has been working nonstop since King Charles III's coronation weekend began, photographing engagements and receptions before Saturday's ceremony and the celebrations afterwards.

As someone who has spent the last 20 years photographing royal-family members  and published three photography books featuring his images of the royals  Jackson knows the importance of being in the right place at the right time.

"You can't be everywhere all at the same time, so you really do have to pick your moments," he told Insider.

Jackson shared his favorite candid photos from the coronation festivities and how they came to be.

Ahead of the coronation, Chris Jackson photographed Prince William and Kate Middleton on a casual visit to London's Dog & Duck Pub.

Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive for a visit to the Dog & Duck Pub ahead of King Charles III's coronation on May 4, 2023. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

On Thursday, the Prince and Princess of Wales surprised commuters on the London Underground's Elizabeth Line as they traveled to the Dog & Duck Pub on public transportation.

At the pub, they sampled some Kingmaker beer and spoke to workers about how the business was preparing for King Charles' coronation.

Jackson told Insider that this royal engagement had an "amazing atmosphere" and was "when the coronation weekend really began."

At a coronation reception for overseas guests, Jackson said King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan were among his favorite royals to photograph that night.

Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan and King King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck attend the coronation reception for overseas guests at Buckingham Palace on May 5, 2023. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

For the first time in 900 years, international monarchs were invited to a British coronation. Charles broke from tradition by welcoming royals from Monaco, Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Japan, Greece, Spain, and Jordan, among other countries.

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Jackson said "it was amazing to see" royals from all over the world at the event, adding that the the king and queen of Bhutan in particular "looked incredible." The photographer went on to say that he had accompanied the Prince and Princess of Wales on a trip to Bhutan in 2016.

After the coronation ceremony, Jackson snapped a photo of King Charles III and Queen Camilla right before they stepped out onto the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Buckingham Palace after the coronation ceremony on May 6, 2023. Handout/Chris Jackson/Getty Images for Buckingham Palace

Jackson did not attend the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey since he was stationed at Buckingham Palace to await the king and queen's arrival and photograph them on the balcony.

He took this photo of Charles and Camilla right before they went outside to greet the crowds gathered below, with royal pages and staff bustling around them.

"It was nice to also capture the king and the queen in the moment before they stepped out onto the balcony, the light behind me and before the doors had opened," he said. "That was a rare moment, so that was pretty special."

Jackson also told Insider he captured a "never-before-seen angle" of the royal couple by standing behind them as they walked onto the Buckingham Palace balcony, providing a behind-the-scenes view of the long-awaited moment.

The day after the coronation, Jackson took photos of Lionel Richie performing at the Coronation Concert in Windsor.

Lionel Richie performs onstage during the Coronation Concert on May 7, 2023, in Windsor, England. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

"They were obviously enjoying Lionel Richie. I think that was one of the favorites," Jackson said, of Charles and Camilla.

"We watched the king dancing with the queen," Jackson added. "I've photographed him for 20 years all around the world, and I've seen him do a lot of dancing, and he's got some pretty good moves."

At the concert, Jackson also caught the moment that Charles affectionately touched Prince William's arm as he took his seat.

King Charles touches Prince William's arm as he arrives at the Coronation Concert on May 7, 2023. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

William gave a speech, broadcast by the BBC, highlighting his father's dedication to public service and saying that Queen Elizabeth II "would be a very proud mother."

"When the king arrived, he just sort of touched William on the arm as he walked past," Jackson said. "It was just a lovely speech and a lovely moment."

On Monday, Jackson joined Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as she visited a guide dog training center in London as part of The Big Help Out.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, takes part in a puppy class at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Training Center on May 8, 2023. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

The Big Help Out  part of the coronation celebrations across the UK  encouraged people to volunteer in their communities on Monday, which was a bank holiday in the UK.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, encountered a "very sweet puppy" named Lucy at the Blind Association Training Center that Jackson said he "really wanted to take home."

Read the original article on Insider
Tara Reade, who has accused President Biden of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s, tweeted a cryptic message about death before she potentially testifies to Congress following an invitation from Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Matt Gaetz.

"I want to make something clear. If something happens to me, all roads lead to Joe Biden," Reade wrote Sunday afternoon. "Joe Biden and DNC political machine threats, bullying and intimidation over the last three years will not work."

"I am not suicidal," she added.

The message includes a promise to testify before Congress, to address "what happened and what" she knows.

BIDEN SAYS VP KAMALA HARRIS NEEDS MORE 'CREDIT', DEFLECTS QUESTION ON WHETHER HE'LL SERVE A FULL TERM

Tara Reade has accused President Biden of sexually assaulting her when she worked in his U.S. Senate office from 1992-1993.

Reade worked as a staff assistant in Bidens office from 1992 to 1993 when he was a U.S. Senator.

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"I should not be under investigation nor am I a foreign agent. I am a private citizen. I was a former staffer of Joe Bidens that has chosen to step forward to tell the truth," Reade continued.

She added: "The tactics using intimidation and bullying to silence me and suppress me using DOJ and FBI and social media will not work. Leave me alone. I will testify under oath in Congress if asked to do so and tell what happened and what I know."

"The Biden corruption must end. Period," Reade said.

She concluded her tweet by thanking Reps. Greene and Gaetz for inviting her "to testify and caring about the truth!"

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-FL, has invited Reade to testify before Congress on the alleged sexual assault.

Reade also responded to a user who accused her of being paid by Gaetz and Greene to testify.

"No I am not getting paid to testify about being raped by my former boss. You are an absolute ghoul. Sexual assault is non-partisan," Reade tweeted.

Biden has denied the allegations of sexual misconduct.

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The cryptic message was posted after Dr. Gal Luft, a co-director of a Washington D.C.-based think tank, claimed he was arrested in an effort to stop him from revealing information about the Biden family.

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"Ive been arrested in Cyprus on a politically motivated extradition request by the U.S. The U.S., claiming Im an arms dealer. It would be funny if it werent tragic. Ive never been an arms dealer," Luft tweeted on Feb. 18.

He added: "DOJ is trying to bury me to protect Joe, Jim, and Hunter Biden. Shall I name names?"

House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, a Republican from Kentucky, told FOX Business Maria Bartiromo that his committee is trying to communicate with Luft and tried to get his testimony.

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., prepares for a television interview in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, January 12, 2023.

"This is something we take very seriously. We had already identified this individual. We had hoped to talk to this individual by now but for whatever reason we have been unable to," Comer told Bartiromo on March 2.

His committee is continuing to investigate alleged coordination between the FBI and members of the Biden family, including the president and Hunter Biden.
The Biden administration approved a plan late last week backed by New York state leaders to charge commuters an increased fee to enter Manhattan in an effort to reduce congestion and improve the city's air quality.

The so-called congestion pricing plan  authorized Friday afternoon by the Transportation Department's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)  has received support from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, but it has faced fierce opposition from fellow Democrat New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and a wide coalition of bipartisan federal lawmakers.

"Todays decision by the U.S. Department of Transportation to allow New Yorks congestion pricing plan to move forward is unfair and ill-advised," Murphy said in a statement. "The Administrations decision to move forward without a true environmental impact study undercuts some of the Administrations own long-term goals, including the Justice40 initiative."

President Joe Biden's Justice40 initiative is a part of his environmental justice agenda, requiring 40% of certain federal investments to flow to disadvantaged communities that are "marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution."

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"Since day one, Ive stood against the disproportionate negative impacts of congestion pricing on New Jerseyans  a greater financial burden on New Jersey commuters, double tolling, toll shopping, a lack of revenue for NJ TRANSIT, outsized environmental burdens on certain North Jersey communities, and financial impacts on the Port Authoritys capital budget," Murphy continued.

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"Everyone in the region deserves access to more reliable mass transit, but placing an unjustified financial burden on the backs of hardworking New Jersey commuters is wrong," the New Jersey governor added. "Simply put, it is a money grab."

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Murphy said his administration would closely assess all legal options.

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In addition, a group of Democrat lawmakers led by Rep. Mikie Sherrill and joined by Democrat Reps. Frank Pallone, Bill Pascrell, Donald Payne and Bonnie Watson Coleman argued in a letter to Hochul last week that the congestion pricing plan is an "unfair hit against New Jersey families" that will double the toll tax 400,000 New Jersey commuters pay.

Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., separately said that while he supports the concept of a congestion pricing plan, the current proposal would increase pollution. He argued the plan forces traffic into the Bronx and said the New York City borough shouldn't be treated as a "dumping ground for Manhattans diesel truck traffic."

Democrat New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been strong proponents of congestion pricing that officials said would reduce pollution.

And Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., added the FHWA was doing the New York state government's "bidding" after it published its approval Friday. Gottheimer and Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., introduced legislation earlier this year that would strip federal funding from infrastructure projects in New York unless the state exempted commuters from all congestion pricing fees.

"The U.S. Department of Transportation has ignored serious environmental impacts by moving to the next step with New Yorks and the MTAs cash-grabbing Congestion Tax," Gottheimer said in a statement. "By the MTAs own admission, their Congestion Tax plan would increase air pollution in New Jersey this year and until 2045."

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In a letter to New York officials Friday, the FHWA approved the release of the proposal's final environmental assessment, one of the final hurdles the project faced. The agency said it determined the assessment met the statutory threshold to move forward.

Under the plan, which the state is planning to begin implementing in less than 12 months, commuters entering midtown or downtown Manhattan could be hit with a fee of up to $23 during peak hours and up to $12 during nighttime hours. The program is projected to boost state revenue by about $1 billion.

Commuters would have to pay up to $23 extra in tolls to enter busy parts of New York City under the proposal.

"Governor Hochul is committed to implementing congestion pricing to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and support our public transit system," John Lindsay, a spokesperson for Gov. Hochul, told Fox News Digital in a statement on Monday. "Weve worked closely with partners across government and with community members over the last four years to develop a plan that will achieve these goals."

"The finding of legal sufficiency is a critical step that will allow our Environmental Assessment to be publicly available for anyone to read, and we will continue to work with our partners to move congestion pricing forward," Lindsay continued.

Adams similarly touted the FHWA action.

"The federal government has given congestion pricing another green light, and we're ready to get it done right," he tweeted. "This is about more than reducing traffic. We'll invest in our transit system and clean up the air in the most polluted communities. We won't leave them behind."
The Biden administration is disadvantaging working, minority and underprivileged students by "weaponizing" the federal student aid process to target for-profit trade schools, according to a conservative watchdog group.

The American Accountability Foundation (AAF) released an explosive new report using research and documents obtained by public records requests to argue the Education Department is working with a network of left-wing figures and Democratic state attorneys general to pursue a "witch hunt" against career colleges  also known as trade, vocational, or proprietary schools.

"Actions of the Biden Department of Education have weaponized the department and the student aid process for political purposes," the report states. "The administration's biased focus on forcing students to choose state-run or traditional private colleges and universities, even when those may not be the best fit, has driven them to build a biased Federal Student Aid office that appears to exist nearly exclusively to prosecute its director's vendetta against career colleges. Specifically, the administration has undertaken several steps that are putting working class students at a disadvantage by unfairly targeting career colleges."

Much of the AAF's report focuses on Richard Cordray, the Education Department's chief operating officer of federal student aid. He previously served as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and attorney general of Ohio. According to the AAF, Cordray is a leading force behind the Biden administration's alleged targeting of career colleges.

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"Richard Cordray is up to his old tricks again. After politicizing and weaponizing the CFPB under Obama to attack and harass the left's enemies, now he's doing the same at the Department of Education," AAF President Tom Jones told Fox News Digital. "This report reveals in shocking and disturbing detail how he is trying to force students to choose state-run or traditional private colleges and universities, instead of career or vocational schools, even if it means blocking opportunities for working-class Americans who benefit the most from these institutions. Once again, he's been caught red-handed trying to force Americans to run their lives as the leftist elite deem proper."

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According to the report, Cordray has staffed his office with "left-wing ideological warriors" to pursue an agenda against career colleges, most of which are for-profit institutions.

"AAF's research shows that Richard Cordray has aggressively staffed his office with partisan ideologues. His hires  while all ideological leftists  tend to split into two camps: first, a reconstitution of his team from the CFPB, and a cadre of activists from state attorneys general offices and outside activist groups," the report states. "When brought together into the office, Cordray has assembled an experienced team of political appointees, advocates with ties to left-wing groups, and liberal attorneys who know how to use the tools of government and its allies on the left to punish businesses they disfavor."

The report specifically describes many of these individuals by name, providing brief descriptions of their backgrounds.

The AAF also obtained emails from state attorneys general offices showing Cordray's office reaching out to significantly more Democrats than Republicans to discuss student loan amnesty at a time when there were more Republican attorneys general in office  a discrepancy that, the report argues, was due to politics.

Department of Education Building.

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"Despite Republicans holding the majority of the attorney general offices in the United States when Cordray was recruiting for an enforcement position, his office reached out to 21 Democrat offices while only reaching out to 11 Republican offices," the report added. "A particularly problematic bias when the position was listed as 'fully remote' and could have been in a state like Texas, whose office was not on the email."

AAF's research indicates Cordray has been in close contact with a wide network of left-wing groups, advocates, lobbyists and lawyers that support large-scale student loan forgiveness and have been outspoken against for-profit colleges. The report details many of these by name and how they connect to Cordray.

The AAF report additionally calls out what it describes as a "revolving door" of left-wing partisans switching between government and outside special interest groups to make money and push their agenda against career colleges. The report specifically details several individuals that it describes as being part of this revolving door.

Toby Merrill, for example, is currently earning a comfortable salary with the Education Department after recently working for the Project on Predator Student Lending. She also worked to sue the Education Department in the past and is married to a top deputy handling student loan and career college issues in the office of the Massachusetts attorney general.

The Education Department dismissed the AAF report as an effort by a "dark money group" to undermine its work to protect students.

"It's no surprise that special interests and partisan dark money groups object to the department's relentless work to protect students and taxpayers," a spokesperson told Fox News Digital. "Any institution that breaks financial aid rules and cheats students into a lifetime of unaffordable debt will be held accountable, period."

Career colleges first came under fire with the Obama administration, which in 2016 started the Federal Student Aid Enforcement Unit. While the office was purportedly created to conduct oversight on all federal education funds, most of its focus was directed toward for-profit schools.

The Obama administration also adopted a "gainful employment" rule allowing the Education Department to cut off aid to a school's students if a certain number of them had too much debt relative to their earnings.

Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C., Aug. 8, 2022.

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The Obama Education Department additionally launched the Borrower's Defense to Repayment (BDR) program, which allows students taking out loans to receive debt relief if they can demonstrate their school misled or otherwise defrauded them.

These policies had a devastating effect on for-profit career colleges. The value of the seven largest publicly traded proprietary education school operators plummeted from a combined $51 billion to $6 billion during the Obama administration, according to DC Journal.

In contrast, the Trump administration effectively closed the student financial aid enforcement office and raised the threshold for students to be able to seek BDR relief.

Then, the Biden administration relaunched an enforcement office under federal student aid and in its 2024 budget request asked for a 600% increase in funding from the prior year. The administration also tightened regulations on how much revenue for-profit schools can generate from federal programs and sought to impose a more rigid "gainful employment" rule on privately-owned schools. The latter rule would not have applied to public and private colleges.

In March, the administration issued new guidance outlining plans to require private college leaders to assume personal liability for unpaid debts that institutions owe to the government when they "fail to operate in a financially responsible way." Weeks later, the Education Department said it was cutting off Florida Career College, a for-profit institution, from participating in federal student aid programs for improperly allowed students without a high school diploma or equivalent credential to test into eligibility for federal aid. As a result, the school will be denied revenue essential to its survival.

President Biden and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona deliver remarks during an event for the 2022 National and State Teachers of the Year in the East Room of the White House on April 27, 2022 in Washington, D.C.

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The Biden administration, Democrats in Congress and various advocacy groups argue they want to ensure students get good value for their education when they take out loans. Last month, progressive House lawmakers called on the administration to use executive power to "curb predatory behaviors" among for-profit colleges. They also said the Education Department should warn students who apply to "low-value" colleges  schools that leave them with high debt and low earning potential. The administration has created but not yet published a list of schools it deems as bad value in a bid to shame them to do better.

Researchers have found that some for-profit colleges leave students with high debt and low pay. According to the left-leaning think tank Third Way, for example, more than 60% of for-profit institutions "show their low-income students earning less than the average high school graduate within 10 years of entering their institution."

However, traditional colleges often leave students in a similar situation. In a 2020 Wall Street Journal column, economist Richard Vedder and policy analyst Andrew Gillen highlighted several prestigious public and nonprofit colleges that fail the gainful employment test, such as Columbia University's bachelor's program in rhetoric and composition and a master's degree in fine and studio arts at Yale. The column even flagged law and optometry degrees from distinguished universities.

Meanwhile, according to a 2020 report from the National Center for Education Statistics, just two-thirds of students who begin a traditional four-year college program earn a degree from that school in six years or less, while only one-third of students who enroll full-time at a two-year community college finish a degree in four years or less.

The AAF also notes in its report that parents, full-time workers, minorities, veterans and first-generation college students often choose career colleges in higher proportions than traditional college students from middle- or upper-class homes.

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"By way of providing an education to many low-performing high school students and nontraditional adult learners, the academic achievement of many career colleges students will fail to match traditional college students, but this is an unfair comparison, given the differing foundation for each of these student types," the report states. "In contrast, and a better comparison, is that career college students tend to perform as well or better than community college students."

Because career colleges reportedly enroll only about 7.5% of students, the AAF and other critics argue the Biden Education Department and others who support its efforts are devoting an unreasonably disproportionate amount of time and resources to for-profit proprietary schools.

In January, the Government Accountability Office reported the Education Department's enforcement office has not "completed work vital to improving oversight of colleges" and hasnt completed or updated "procedures for selecting colleges for investigations, conducting investigations, and imposing penalties on colleges that are found to be engaging in substantial misrepresentation. Education has lacked these complete and updated procedures for at least 6 years."

Trace Urdan, managing director at the investment firm Tyton Partners, was similarly critical of the Education Department's enforcement efforts.

"It would go a long way toward Richard Cordray's credit if he were to actually use this same initiative to hold some nonprofit schools accountable by similar standards," Urdan said in 2021. "But I'm not holding my breath for that outcome."

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According to the AAF, Cordray "has taken the Department of Education's Federal Student Aid office from an objective protector of students to a partisan shop pursuing a witch hunt against an industry Cordray personally opposes." The report claims Cordray and like-minded individuals in positions of influence want to "force students and parents to attend traditional colleges and universities staffed and run by their friends on the left even if it means denying options to students."

In contrast, the Education Department says its investigations into for-profit schools are meant to probe potential violations of laws and regulations.
In just three days, Title 42 restrictions at the border will end. Fortunately, the Biden administration is on top of it, fully prepared to manage the coming crush of ...

Yeah, nobodys buying that.

Even Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego, a die-hard progressive, seems worried.

A year ago, Gallego was calling for an end to the pandemic-era policy that has been used more than 2.7 million times to expel border crossers since it was enacted in March 2020.

Now hes sounding the alarm about what Bidens plan  or possible lack of one  is going to mean for Arizona.

Gallego, Sinema want to do the unlikely

Ive heard directly from leaders in our border communities and its abundantly clear that they, through no fault of their own, are simply unequipped to handle the surge of migrants that are expected when Title 42 ends, Gallego said last week.

They need tangible resources like buses, beds, personnel and funds to both process asylum claims in an orderly way and keep their communities safe. . With Title 42 set to end on May 11, we need the Biden administration to act, and to act fast.

Gallego  who is hoping to replace Democrat-turned-independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema next year  is asking Biden to do, in a few days, what he hasnt been able to do in a few years.

Sure, thatll happen.

Right around the time when Biden catches up with those 85,000 unaccompanied migrant children his Department of Health and Human Services is supposed to be watching. A bunch of them are now working in factories and other sweatshops, according to The New York Times. (Welcome to the 19th century!)

Everyone here in Arizona knows we are not prepared, Sinema said on CBSs Face the Nation, which aired on Sunday. The Biden administration has had two years to prepare for this and did not do so. And our state is going to bear the brunt and migrants will be in crisis as soon as next week. It will be a humanitarian crisis because we are not prepared.

Arizona knows what could fix this mess

Migrants, advocates and faith leaders gather near the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry in Nogales, Sonora, to commemorate the third anniversary of Title 42 on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.

Last week, Sinema, along with Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., introduced a bill to temporarily extend Bidens authority to expel migrants without a hearing after Title 42 ends. This, to give the administration and Congress time to finally act like leaders and address the problem.

Story continues

That wont happen.

Yet it seems painfully obvious what needs to be done.

The elephant in the room is that hunk of Swiss cheese we call a border.

Exhibit A in the case that it needs shoring up was on display late last month in Texas where five innocents were executed by a Mexican national who had been deported twice in 2009 and again in 2012 and yet again in 2016.Along with hardening up the border, we need to update our visa system so that the workers we need can come here legally (and to ensure they leave if and when those visas expire).

We need to retool the asylum system to provide protection more quickly for those who qualify for it and turn away those who dont.

And yes, we need to offer Dreamers the chance to become citizens in this, the only country many of them have ever known.

Feds tout a plan, but it could take a while

Sadly, none of that will happen because its always an election year or the year before an election year and there are political points to be made. We are far too entrenched in our respective foxholes to actually come to a compromise.

And so we wait for Thursday and the inevitable run for the border once Biden lifts Title 42.

The Department of Homeland Security has predicted that upward of 10,000 migrants will cross the border illegally every day after Title 42 ends. Thats nearly double the daily average in March.

Other internal government projections suggest it could go as high as 13,000 daily crossings.

Relax, we are told. The Biden administration has a plan.

One that includes Latin American processing centers, a phone app and a new regulation making it more difficult for non-Mexican migrants to get asylum if they did not first seek it in a country they crossed to get here.

When Title 42 ends: New US migrant plan hinges on Mexico

Its going to take our plan a while to really take hold, for people to understand that they can access lawful, safe, orderly pathways before they reach the border, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Sunday on Face the Nation. And quite frankly, if they come to the border, they will receive a consequence under our enforcement authorities.

We are prepared."

Title 42's end has disaster written all over it

Its just that nobody on the front lines here in Arizona has apparently seen evidence of it.

Me? Im remembering that time when overwhelmed Border Patrol agents, having no place to put people, dumped weary Venezuelans and Chileans in a park in Gila Bend.

This tiny town of 2,000 people, set deep in the desert, has no bus stop, no shelters and absolutely no ability to help immigrants in search of asylum.

One of the children, hoping to reunite with his mother, asked if this was Delaware.

Yeah, Thursday has disaster written all over it.

Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter at @LaurieRoberts.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona border could descend into chaos as Title 42 ends
Sanism, racism make U.S. black man blamed for his own death: Truthout

Xinhua) 09:10, May 08, 2023

People take part in a protest over chokehold death of a black man in New York, the United States, May 6, 2023. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua)

"Add to that homelessness, and the mad Black person without property is the perfect antithesis of this violent brutal capitalist society -- they must be made to disappear by all means necessary," says Idil Abdillahi.

NEW YORK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Anti-Black racism and the society's dehumanizing attitude toward people seen by others as "mentally ill" are on full display in the United States this week in victim-blaming narratives surrounding the murder of Jordan Neely, reported the website Truthout on Friday.

Neely, a 30-year-old Black subway rider, was choked to death by a 24-year-old white ex-Marine on the New York City subway on May 1 as other passengers looked on, said the report.

U.S. news outlets have described the murder in a way that downplays the violence of the killing and exonerated the killer by casting the lethal chokehold as somehow understandable because "there were serious mental health issues in play here," said the report.

Police officers clash with protesters during a protest over chokehold death of a black man in New York, the United States, May 6, 2023. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua)

"Add to that homelessness, and the mad Black person without property is the perfect antithesis of this violent brutal capitalist society -- they must be made to disappear by all means necessary," Idil Abdillahi, an assistant professor in the School of Disability Studies at Toronto Metropolitan University, was quoted as saying.

"By attending to maddening social contexts -- racism, ableism, sanism, sexism, heteropatriarchy, and more -- we begin to see the ways in which madness is not an individual 'ailment' or condition that is one person's 'fault'," she said.

"In a world where suffering is so pervasive and overlapping, Abdillahi's critical voice is indispensable," said the report, noting that the ongoing discourses of mental illness and the pathologization of blackness are affecting how Neely's killing is framed by politicians and by media.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg want to require more generous passenger compensation from airlines who cancel or delay flights, the latest effort by the administration to improve the flying experience ahead of a busy summer travel season.

On Monday the Transportation Department proposed a rule that would require airlines to go beyond refunds when airlines delay or cancel a flight  such as offering a meal or meal voucher, overnight accommodations, ground transportation to and from the hotel, and rebooking along with timely customer service.

DOT also announced an expanded Airline Customer Service Dashboard that shows which airlines currently offer cash compensation, provide travel credits or vouchers, or award frequent flyer miles and cover the costs for hotels and other amenities. The White House said that the new website will show "that virtually no airlines offer compensation on top of refunds or amenities."

"We know how frustrating delays, cancellations and rebookings are," Biden said during a speech at the White House on Monday."While flight delays and cancellations have come down since then, there's still a problem."



The White House said the expanded website will show that only one airline guarantees frequent flyer miles, and that two airlines guarantee travel credits or vouchers as compensation if passengers experience significant delays or cancelations that are caused by something within the airlines control such as a mechanical issue. Zero airlines guarantee cash compensation for preventable delays and cancellations.

Biden and Buttigieg announced the new effort at an appearance at the White House on Monday. The White House noted that three airlines, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines and American Airlines, announced commitments to provide fee-free family seating after Biden included family seating fees as part of his attack on "junk fees" in this year's State of the Union.

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When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill, Buttigieg said in a statement. This rule would, for the first time in U.S. history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay.

Airlines for America, a trade association representing major U.S. airlines, said they "look forward to working with the administration to ensure U.S. airspace remains the safest airspace in the world while supporting robust marketplace competition that provides transparency and vast options for consumers."

They also noted that the majority of canceled flights between August of last year and February, about two-thirds, are attributable to weather and air traffic control issues that airlines are not responsible for.

Biden said the new rule will be drafted later this year. DOT will also finalize a separate rule later this year requiring airlines to show the total cost of a flight, including extra charges for add-ons like baggage, at the time of booking, Biden said.

"Almost a year ago, no one guaranteed anything," Biden said of the airlines. "We challenged them to do better and in fact they did. Now nine major airlines cover hotels, 10 cover meals, 10 rebook for free  and thats a real savings."



Background: The announcement is another push by the White House to get ahead of a summer travel season that is predicted to exceed pre-pandemic travel levels in 2019.

Late last year, Southwest Airlines' holiday meltdown stranded tens of thousands of passengers and prompted calls from Buttigieg and lawmakers to make travelers whole. Southwest responded by doling out rewards points and spending millions on hotels and other expenses for passengers who were stranded for days, though Senate Commerce Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) is pushing the airline to make public how many customers applied for reimbursements for ancillary expenses but were rejected.

Federal law does not require airlines to compensate passengers for flight delays. If a flight is canceled, a passenger can choose to receive a refund.
President Biden is calling on Congress to pass an assault-weapons ban following a shooting at a shopping mall in Texas that killed eight and wounded at least seven others on Saturday.

Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar, Biden said in a statement released by the White House on Sunday.

Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables. Republican Members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug. Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough, the president continued. Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe.

Republican governor Greg Abbott attended a vigil in honor of the victims on Sunday and dismissed calls for further attempts at gun control in an interview. Weve seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws as well as shootings in states with very strict gun laws, Abbott told Fox News.

The shooting came just hours after a heated discussion on gun control unfolded in the State House in Austin.

Children are dying and we need to protect them and stop with this partisan BS because were not doing anything. Were hurting every Texan when we dont legislate properly, Democratic Representative Jarvis Johnson said during an impassioned speech.

Because youre booing me off because I dont have an R by my name. It is time to legislate! Children have died in this state and you guys are sitting here and joking and thinking this is a joke! This is not a joke  this is real. Children every day are dying, Johnson shouted above heckles from the Republican-controlled House.

The shooting comes a week after Francisco Oropesa, an illegal immigrant who had been previously deported several times, shot and killed five of his neighbors in Cleveland, Texas, a town north of Houston, after they asked him to stop firing his gun in his yard.

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Biden ordered flags flown at half-staff in honor of the victims of the mass shooting.

More from National Review
Airline departure board cancellations. Cravetiger/Getty Images

The Biden administration is proposing a new regulation requiring airlines to compensate passengers for "controllable airline cancellations" and delays, CNN reports. The new rule details that along with compensating for the cost of the ticket, airlines must also compensate for other expenses incurred, including hotel stays, meals, and the cost of rebooking for another flight.

"When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill," said Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. President Biden and Buttigieg will be holding a White House event on Monday announcing the new rule proposal along with an Airline Customer Service Dashboard at FlightRights.gov which would show the airlines that "offer cash compensation, provide travel credits or vouchers, or award frequent flyer miles and cover the costs for other amenities," according to an administration official.

The idea comes following Southwest Airlines' winter flight cancellation debacle, which left thousands of passengers stranded around the country. Nearly 17,000 flights were canceled and the airline is under investigation to determine whether it scheduled more flights than it could handle, according to The Associated Press. "This rule would, for the first time in US history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers," Buttigieg remarked.

However, some like the industry trade group Airlines for America argue that many times cancellations are out of the airline's control, writes The Wall Street Journal. "U.S. airlines have no incentive to delay or cancel a flight and do everything in their control to ensure flights depart and arrive on time," it said. "But safety is always the top priority."

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The response at the White House to a high-profile mass shooting has become routine.

The White House press office puts out a statement. President Joe Biden offers prayers for the victims and thanks first responders. And he calls on Congress to pass comprehensive gun reform, including legislation to ban semi-automatic weapons.

On Monday, a day after a shooter at a shopping mall in Cleveland, Texas killed at least eight people and wounded seven more, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre placed the blame at the feet of Republicans in Congress.

This is a crisis, Jean-Pierre said. It is a crisis that Republicans in Congress are refusing to address. Were talking about the number 1 killer of kids in America and the Republicans are saying theres nothing we can do about it.

The White House is pushing for a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, stronger background checks, universal background checks, requiring safe storage and ending immunity for gun manufacturers.

None of it is likely to get through Congress.

The Republican senators who represent Kansas and Missouri, and most of the Republicans who represent the Kansas City area in the House did not respond to a question asking if there was any legislation they would support to address gun violence in the country.

One Missouri Republican, Rep. Eric Burlison, introduced legislation earlier this year to loosen gun laws by repealing the National Firearms Act. Rep. Mark Alford, who represents the eastern Kansas City suburbs, signed on as a co-sponsor.

Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Kansas Republican, supports a bill that would use unspent COVID-19 money to allow schools to strengthen their security measures and legislation to provide more federal funding for programs that focus on mental and behavorial health. He does not support legislation that would restrict guns.

As a father of four young kids, Rep. LaTurner is hopeful that we can get one or both of these bills across the finish line and signed into law in the near future, said Mike Howard, LaTurners spokesman.

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Will Bensur, a spokesman for Sen. Roger Marshall, said after the story published that the Kansas Republican also supports focusing on adding security measures to schools and focusing on mental health, rather than legislation dealing directly with guns.

Last Congress, Democrats and Republicans were able to strike a deal on legislation that largely focused on the mental health aspect of mass shootings, including enhancing mental health background checks on people under 21 who try to buy a weapon and providing financial support for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, a provision pushed by former Sen. Roy Blunt, a Missouri Republican who retired from Congress in January.

None of House Republicans from Missouri or Kansas supported the legislation. Blunt was the only senator from the Kansas City region to offer his support.

In a February poll by St. Louis University and YouGov, only 39% of Missourians supported the ban of semi-automatic weapons and the same amount supported a ban of magazine clips for semi-automatic weapons. Theres particularly low enthusiasm for the ideas from Republicans, among whom 20% supported banning semi-automatic weapons and 18% supported banning magazine clips for the weapons.

But when it came to other policy areas, like background checks, raising the minimum age to purchase a weapon and red flag laws, there was bipartisan support among Missourians  69% of Missourians supported mental health background checks, 79% supported criminal background checks, 69% supported raising the age limit to 21, 60% supported a 72 hour waiting period before obtaining a gun and 60% supported a red flag law.

Jean-Pierre said that Biden has signed a number of executive orders attempting to address gun violence but that hes mostly attempting to use the bully pulpit of the presidency to urge for change.

Other Democrats have followed suit, despite a Congress where it is notoriously difficult to pass substantial gun legislation.

Rep. Davids believes that protecting our communities from the threat of gun violence should not be a partisan issue, said Zac Donley, Davids spokesman. Thats why she voted with Republicans last year to protect Kansas children, keep our schools safe, and reduce the threat of gun violence across the country. She continues to support common sense gun safety measures, like universal background checks and closing loopholes in gun purchases.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, has repeatedly called for Congress to pass legislation to address gun violence. For more than a year, Cleaver has walked out of the House every time someone offers a prayer for victims of a shooting, saying he believes it is hypocritical for Congress to pray when they are not taking action.

Moses was able to lead his people across the Red Sea in the most perilous of situations, so I will never say that miracles are impossible, Cleaver said Tuesday, after the story published. But it might take an act from God to provide a path forward during the 118th Congress.
Bindi Irwin attends the 2023 Steve Irwin Gala Dinner in Los Angeles, California. Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

The annual Steven Irwin Gala Dinner was hosted in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday.

Bindi Irwin walked the red carpet wearing a necklace with her late father's portrait on a charm.

She also embraced the jewelry and held it up to the cameras while posing for photos.

Bindi Irwin found a heartwarming way to honor her late father Steve Irwin over the weekend.

On Saturday, the Australian animal activist and her family hosted the annual Steve Irwin Gala Dinner in Los Angeles, California.

She wore a black, mock-neck sweater underneath a matching jacket, and tucked the top into a tiered, floral skirt. The 24-year-old also donned sparkle-encrusted flats and neutral makeup.

But it was her necklace that stole the show. On a thin gold chain, Bindi wore a portrait of her father set in an oval-shaped charm.

Bindi Irwin wears a necklace featuring a portrait of her father Steve Irwin. Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

Bindi held the necklace up for photos while posing on the red carpet, and also took a moment to embrace it.

Her father was known around the world as an animal expert and television personality, who appeared both on late-night shows as a wildlife educator and in his own series, "The Crocodile Hunter."

He was killed by a stingray in 2006 at the age of 44.

Bindi Irwin holds a necklace featuring a portrait of her father at the 2023 Steve Irwin Gala Dinner.

Bindi Irwin holds the charm, which features a portrait of her father.Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

In the years since his death, Bindi has continued to honor him both privately and publicly.

She's shared social-media posts about him, chosen a wedding dress that mirrored one her mom wore when marrying her dad, and re-created her parent's pregnancy photos.

Bindi and her husband Chandler Powell also gave their daughter Grace middle names that nod to the wildlife icon.

"Her middle names, Warrior Irwin, are a tribute to my dad and his legacy as the most incredible Wildlife Warrior," she previously wrote on Instagram.

Read the original article on Insider
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Republican chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee threatened Secretary of State Antony Blinken with contempt of Congress if he does not comply with a subpoena seeking a classified cable related to the August 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

In a letter to Blinken dated Friday and released on Monday, Representative Michael McCaul said information that has been provided about a "dissent channel" cable sent in July 2021 and the department's response to the cable were insufficient to satisfy the committee.

The committee issued a subpoena in March seeking the information.

The "dissent channel" allows State Department officials to communicate directly with senior officials. A Wall Street Journal article in August 2021 said the cable warned top officials of the potential collapse of Kabul soon after the withdrawal of U.S. troops.

The State Department has said some information can only be shared with senior officials to protect the identity of those using the dissent channel.

"It's unfortunate that after being provided a classified briefing and being provided a written summary of the contents of the dissent channel cable as well as the department's response, the House Foreign Affairs Committee continues to pursue this," department spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters.

"Our viewpoint is that the materials and briefings that we've offered and provided have sufficiently met the mark when it comes to the committee's legitimate oversight requests," Patel said.

McCaul has launched an investigation into the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Republicans - and some Democrats - say there has never been a full accounting of the chaotic operation, in which 13 U.S. service members were killed at Kabul's airport.

The letter said the department must comply or assert a legal basis to withhold the documents no later than May 11 at 6 pm EDT (2200 GMT).

"As noted above, should the Department fail to comply with its legal obligation, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding," the letter said.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle, additional reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Sandra Maler and Jonathan Oatis)
61-year-old Nikolai Klimovich was sentenced to a year in prison for a smiley under a caricature of Lukashenko on the Odnoklassniki

Klimovich, 61, was imprisoned despite the fact that he had a serious heart condition. He was imprisoned in Vitebsk Penal Colony #3 for a little over two months before he died.

Klimovich was a blogger and civic activist from Pinsk.

On Feb. 28, a Pinsk court sentenced him to a year in prison under Article 368 of the Criminal Code  insulting the president of Belarus  for allegedly posting a satirical image of Lukashenko on social media.

Read also: Belarusian journalist from hijacked Ryanair flight sentenced to 8 years in prison in sham trial

The post with the caricature of the Belarusian dictator appeared on Klimovich's Odnoklassniki page, as he had clicked the reaction "funny" under it. He claimed that he did not intend to distribute these cartoons, but had only laughed at them.

Klimovich had a group II disability due to cardiovascular disease, he had suffered a stroke and had undergone heart surgery.

Before his sentencing, he said that he might die in prison because he needed to take a large amount of powerful medications. Any imprisonment for me is death, because I have to be under constant medical supervision, take a lot of strong medications. I may not last even a month, Klimovich told reporters.

Read also: Belarusian rail partisan sentenced to 13 years in prison

Nevertheless, the Pinsk court sentenced him to imprisonment, and on April 21, the Brest Regional Court rejected the appeal and upheld the verdict. Soon after, 61-year-old Klimovich was transferred to Vitebsk Penal Colony #3, having been transported across Belarus.

In February 2023, Klimovich was also tried in an administrative case: he was fined 111 Belarusian rubles ($44) for "spreading Nazi symbols."

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A 21-year-olds body was found a day after he disappeared while swimming in the ocean, Maryland officials say.

Praise Ezechibueze, from New Jersey, vanished around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, while swimming in Ocean City, according to a Facebook post from the Ocean City Police Department. Beach patrol searched for the man for two hours before turning the search over to the United States Coast Guard.

The next morning, just after 5:30 a.m., a beachgoer was walking on the beach and spotted a body, police said in a May 7 news release. When investigators arrived, they identified the body as belonging to Ezechibueze.

Police said there were rip current conditions at the time that Ezechubueze went missing.

Ocean City does not have lifeguards on duty until Memorial Day weekend, so officials encouraged beachgoers to stay extra vigilant before then.

We would like to remind everyone of Beach Patrols motto: Keep Your Feet in the Sand until the Lifeguards in the Stand. Ocean City is prone to strong rip currents, which can occur at any surf beach with breaking waves, police said in the release.

What is a rip current?

Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water that happen on the coasts of the U.S. and in the Great Lakes, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

About 100 people are killed by rip currents each year in the U.S., NOAA reported. Lifeguards rescue thousands of people from rip currents annually.

Experts say people can take steps to stay safe from rip currents, including:

Check the local water conditions before getting in.

Talk to a lifeguard at the beach about the conditions.

Only swim at beaches where lifeguards are present.

Dont assume great weather means good swimming conditions.

16-year-old vanishes in waves while swimming at NC beach with friends, reports say

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The Ocean City Police Department has located the body of the swimmer reported missing Saturday, May 6, 2023. The swimmer has been identified as Praise Ezechibueze, 21, of New Jersey.

Sunday morning at about 5:34 a.m., the Ocean City Police Department responded to the area of 4th Street and the beach. A citizen walking on the beach reported to officers that they observed a body on the beach.

Members of the Major Crimes Unit and Forensic Services responded to the scene. Detectives were able to identify the individual as Ezechibueze, and his body has been transported to the Holloway Funeral Home.

On May 6 at about 3:29 p.m., the Ocean City Fire Department and Ocean City Police Department responded to a missing swimmer in the area of 25th Street and the beach. Rescue swimmers from the OCFD immediately deployed into the ocean and began searching the area for the submerged swimmer. The Ocean City Beach Patrol also joined the search effort, along with members of the United States Coast Guard and Maryland Natural Resources Police.

The Ocean City Beach Patrol will return to guarding the 10 miles of beach the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. Until then, lifeguards would like to remind everyone of Beach Patrols motto: Keep Your Feet in the Sand until the Lifeguards in the Stand. Ocean City is prone to strong rip currents, which can occur at any surf beach with breaking waves.

If you would like to learn more about rip current safety or about Beach Patrol in general, visit its website.

SPRINGFEST PHOTOS: Ocean City's Springfest full of live music, art, food and fun on sunny day: PHOTOS

THE SEARCH: Missing swimmer reported in Ocean City, Coast Guard takes over search

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Body of Ocean City drowning victim located by police on beach
Signed, sealed and delivered, Book Club: The Next Chapter is an unabashed love letter to four great movie stars. As a vehicle for their talents, its less of a sure thing. If you can see past the clunky plot contrivances, strained hijinks and one-liners that dont land, and focus on the Italy-set comedys Mediterranean glow and the dazzling quartet of go-getters at its center, the movie might fit the bill as a celebratory pairing with Mothers Day brunch.

The tagline on the key art encapsulates the sequels problems: Slightly Scandalous. Totally Fabulous. That qualifying slightly signals the softer cadence of this reunion. In the 2018 hit, Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen and Mary Steenburgen transcended the often tepid humor with their rat-a-tat delivery; here, returning director Bill Holderman, again working from a screenplay he wrote with Erin Simms, struggles to find a rhythm, and flat jokes too often hang in the air. As to this fearsome foursomes fabulosity, it needs no underlining, but Next Chapter is very busy with a highlighter, less we forget.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

Kicking things off with Tom Pettys infectious and pointed American Girl, Holderman sets a buoyant mood thats quickly deflated by six pre-title minutes of the cliques pandemic Zooming. As the world reopens, they agree, after some give-and-take, to revive a long-shelved plan for a vacation in Italy, one that turns into a bachelorette getaway for Fondas Vivian, who surprises no one more than herself when she becomes engaged to Arthur (Don Johnson), the long-ago boyfriend she rediscovered in the previous installment. The high-powered, commitment-averse hotelier has been enjoying a New York penthouse lifestyle with him, while Keatons widowed Diane is living the New Mexico dream with pilot Mitchell (Andy Garcia). With their understated supporting turns, Johnson and Garcia provide a welcome antidote to all the over-enunciated exuberance.

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Sharon, the divorced federal judge played by Bergen, has retired and is still playing the field with gusto. Long-married chef Carol (Steenburgen), having shuttered her Los Angeles eatery during the COVID lockdown, has taken up the accordion  a real-life talent of Steenburgens, and pretty darn cool. Not so cool is Carols use of domestic spyware to monitor the eating habits of hubby Bruce (Craig T. Nelson), whos recovering from a heart attack. A ham-handed scene revolving around bacon is the unfortunate result.

The four longtime friends have moved on from the Fifty Shades trilogy  which, five years ago, jump-started their lives on the romance and sex fronts  to the pop mysticism of Paulo Coelhos self-help fable The Alchemist. Its advice to embrace serendipity and not submit to fate as a victim is the unsubtle guiding principle as these superachiever American girls, in their 70s and 80s, embark on their Italian adventure. They take their moveable feast of comfort and luxury and endless long-stemmed glasses of wine to Rome and Tuscany, with an impromptu detour to Venice. There are landmarks and selfies, gelato and prosecco, and double entendres so broad they might qualify as quadruples. Serendipity arrives in the form of sparks between Sharon and Ousmane (Hugh Quarshie), a life-loving retired professor of philosophy, and Carol reignites a culinary flame with Gianni (Vincent Riotta), a fellow chef she once loved.

The daytime scenes are cast in a honeyed light by DP Andrew Dunn, and Stefano Maria Ortolanis production design nabs the high-end good life to which these four are accustomed. Amid such riches, the assortment of setbacks that arise like clockwork are never dire enough to provoke real panic. But they do provide a reason for run-ins with a clownishly unhelpful police chief played by Giancarlo Giannini. The esteemed Italian actor and Bergen bonded and clashed in Lina Wertmullers 1978 romantic drama A Night Full of Rain. Here, in a very different vein, Bergens no-filters Sharon gives Gianninis lawman an earful.

Emphasizing that Book Club is about the performers more than the characters, Holderman interrupts the travelogue for an all-out lovefest sequence in an opulent bridal salon, where Fondas bride-to-be and her three besties all get to flaunt their magnificent selves in a fashion show of gowns. Stefano De Nardis costumes shower the actors with affection  in Keatons case especially, paying tribute to her distinctive fashion profile.

In the midst of one evenings festivities, product placement for a brand of liqueur is so conspicuous, the bottles label so precisely positioned before the camera, that it might as well have been accompanied by a jingle. As to the films song soundtrack, after the promise of Petty, it lapses into a less-than-commanding mix of vintage pop. A party scene featuring a new rendition of the rousing international hit Gloria, led by Quarshie and Steenburgen, could have been a blast if Holderman didnt remind the audience at every awkward turn just what a blast all the characters are having.

Sustaining the thin narrative was not the top priority, it seems; The Next Chapter moves in and out of a sense of emotional connection. When it does indulge in straight-up sentiment, the results, however obvious, are a welcome break from the half-baked shenanigans. A scene between Keaton and Fonda is affecting precisely because its A Scene Between Keaton and Fonda.

Holderman and Simms screenplay endorses tradition but also gently (slightly?) questions it  specifically, the tradition of marriage. Whats most interesting about this Chapter is that it pushes aside the matter of age as a deciding factor and focuses on temperament and personality. And theres something moving about seeing octogenarian Fonda as a first-time bride walking down the aisle, at once regal and unguarded.

Hell yes, Hollywood needs more movies about female friendship, and it needs more movies that place older women front and center. Watching this one, its easy to kvell over the signature silhouettes and screen essences of four extraordinary performers: Keatons deft-clumsy openness, Fondas ineffable elegance and strength, Bergens unparalleled timing and stinging wit, and Steenburgens graceful ebullience. Actresses in earlier eras didnt have the chance to do what theyre doing here. If only they were doing it in a better movie.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Click here to read the full article.
The border guards of Ukraine have shot down three UAVs of the Russian occupiers on the Svatove front (Luhansk Oblast).

Source: press service of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Quote: "One of border guard units, which executes combat tasks in the East of Ukraine, detected the movement of several UAVs of the occupiers. With the use of anti-drone guns that had proven their efficiency many times, the border guards downed three Russian "birds" in one go."

Details: The State Border Guards Service of Ukraine stated that the Russians continue to actively use drones of different types all along the frontline. Yet the border guards remain alert and counteract the attempts of the occupiers to detect the Ukrainian positions.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!






Franklin, a Venezuelan migrant, finds temporary housing in a Juarez shelter. He has tried for weeks to schedule an appointment for processing with the CBP One application, but he fears the anticipated lifting of Title 42 restrictions on Thursday will make crossing the border harder, not easier.

As Title 42 restrictions enter what is supposed to be their final week, migrants waiting in Juarez for an opportunity to enter the United States have lost much of their hope that the end of the pandemic-era policy will make reaching their destination any easier.

The uncertainty grows each day, said Franklin, a Venezuelan migrant who spoke from a shelter in Juarez on Friday about the elimination of Title 42 policies and the enforcement of Title 8. People start getting desperate and there is a lot of false information.

Title 8, a U.S. immigration law, allows for civil prosecution and removal of migrants who enter the country illegally, as well as a five-year ban on reentry. Migrants who violate this ban by attempting reentry can be criminally prosecuted or banned for up to 20 years. In contrast, under Title 42 there are no penalties for migrants and asylum-seekers who are removed and attempt to reenter multiple times.

A migrant sets up camp in an alley behind the Opportunity Center for the Homeless in El Paso on Wednesday. Hundreds of migrants are seeking refuge at the homeless center.

Those penalties mean that there will be even more risk for migrants who cross illegally after Title 42 is lifted, Franklin said. He and his partner are not celebrating the end of Title 42 restrictions. It just means more waiting as they continue to log onto the CBP One application every day in hopes of getting an appointment.

More: El Paso officials prepare for May 11 end of Title 42 pandemic restrictions on migrants

Several miles to the northeast of Franklins shelter, hundreds of migrants already are camped along both the U.S. and Mexican banks of the Rio Grande near Gate 40, just south of the border wall opposite Yarbrough Drive. Four days ago, officials at the gate told them that they would be processed within 48 hours, Ruben, a migrant from Colombia, said on Friday. That has not happened.

People are suffering, he said. People are hungry, children are sick with vomiting and diarrhea, and we have no answers.

Ruben said that on Thursday night officials made migrants camped on the U.S. side throw away all their supplies and food in preparation for letting us through.

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But it was a lie, just to make us suffer and maybe to make us leave, he said. (We are) between the border on one side, where they will not let us through, and the cartel on the other, where we are risking our lives.

More: Migrants await to be processed on south side of border wall as they turn themselves in

CBP officials disputed the characterizations by the migrants. "CBP officers do not make asylum determinations nor is the CBP One app a mechanism to apply for asylum. In recent months, the app has facilitated the scheduling of appointments at ports of entry for consideration of a Title 42 exception," the agency said in a statement.

Migrants said that criminal organizations have kidnapped individuals from the riverbank camp.

We have been having problems with the cartel, said Yury, a father from Venezuela. But (Border Patrol) will not let us through because they say the shelters are full.

Yury arrived in Juarez on Jan. 9 with his 6-year-old daughter. Since Monday, he said, migrants of various nationalities have been camping at the river.

He doubts that the end of Title 42 restrictions will help him and his daughter in their quest to reach the United States.

What I understand is that with Title 42, they would send you back to Mexico, but with Title 8, they will deport you to your country of origin and they will punish you for 10 years, Yury said. We dont know what will happen with Venezuelans, Nicaraguans, the countries where the United States doesnt have that relationship.

Migrants ask El Paso police about documents they received after crossing to the U.S. as they wait outside Sacred Heart Church in Downtown El Paso on April 28.

More: How will El Paso handle the end of Title 42? Border Patrol chief shares his plans

Mexico will continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Nicaragua, Cuba and Haiti who are expelled or deported from the United States, according to a joint statement by Mexico and the United States issued May 2.

Yury's attempts to schedule an appointment through CBP One have failed, a common complaint from migrants in Juarez. Beginning Wednesday, the application will be updated to schedule up to 1,000 appointments per day and to allow noncitizens access 23 hours a day, rather than at one specific time, to schedule an appointment, Customs and Border Protection announced Friday. The change is expected to alleviate some of the problems that migrants with poor internet connectivity, for example, have had in scheduling appointments.

But some migrants have found that the coveted appointments end in disappointment and even separation from loved ones.

Julio, a Venezuelan man who now lives in the same shelter as Franklin, scheduled an appointment through CBP One along with his partner and her two children. He arrived at an El Paso port of entry on April 25 with his identification.

I was fingerprinted, then they asked if my identification was authentic, Julio said. He told them that it was a real identification. Then they called me up and told me, Mexico is over there. They did not give my identification back. They did not explain anything to me.

Agents pushed him and two other men who were also at the port of entry for appointments back toward Mexico, Julio said. His partner and her children were processed and released in the United States.

We asked for an explanation, but they just pushed us away. They treated us like animals, Julio said. We came all this way together just for them to separate us here. It hasnt been easy.

More: Abbott sending 'quick-response teams' to border, wants federal action as Title 42 nears end

CBP said an appointment via the app is not a guarantee of admission into the United States. The determination of which Title 8 process to apply is made on a case-by-case basis. Those processed for removal proceedings will have an opportunity to express fear of return in conjunction with those proceedings, the agency said in a statement.

Migrants should continue to have patience and wait for appointments, Julio advised. He worries that crossing the border illegally would only leave him vulnerable to a future deportation.

Back at the river, hundreds of migrants already have stepped through gaps in the concertina wire placed by Texas National Guardsmen. They now wait on the strip of land between the river and the border wall. Still, they have lost any illusions they may have had about Title 42's expiration being an answer to their prayers.

We dont know what will happen tonight, so we cant even imagine what might happen after May 11, Ruben said. We are just here, gambling our lives on luck.

This report originally was published on El Paso Matters.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Migrants at border see little hope in end of Title 42 restrictions
Authorities said that two people were killed and two others were injured in several shootings across Boston on Sunday night.

Police first responded to a report of a shooting on Wildwood Street in Mattapan around 8:30 p.m. Boston Police Commisoner Michael Cox said officers found two men suffering from gunshot wounds.

Both men were taken to a local hospital. One man died due to his injuries and the other is in critical condition.

#Breaking Two people shot on Wildwood street in Mattapan BPD confirms. Large Police presence as they investigate. #Boston25 pic.twitter.com/Qipxk2A5gw  James Cullity (@JCullityNews) May 8, 2023

Police also revealed two other gunshot victims were transported to local hospitals. One of those victims died.

Police say the deceased victim walked into a local hospital. Although officers arent aware of where that shooting occurred they believe it isnt connected to the shooting in Mattapan.

The fourth victim was shot at a separate, unconnected scene on Kingston Street near Chinatown.

Boston: IAO 35 Kingston St, shooting, victim hit and transported in a civilian vehicle to BMC, BPD searching the area for a crime scene, no victim condition, avoid this area if possible #Boston25 #News #BreakingNews #Shooting pic.twitter.com/c5t363DRDS  Mark Parkinson (@MParkBoston25) May 8, 2023

During the press conference, Boston Police officials asked the public to contact homicide detectives at 617-343-4470 or leave an anonymous tip at 1-800-494-TIPS if they had any information to help investigators.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Cora Breilein and her husband, Jared, alongside their controversial wedding FAQs. TikTok;@corabrei

Cora Breilein held an intimate, 96-person wedding on April 22.

She posted a TikTok about her wedding site's FAQs, and faced a barrage of hate online.

Breilein defended the requests, including not extending a plus-one to a friend's boyfriend.

Cora Breilein never wanted a big wedding.

The 28-year-old event planner and her husband, Jared, wanted to elope  and invited 96 people to an intimate "friends and family barbeque" in Glen Ellen, California, for their big day. To fit the venue, the pair made tough cuts to plus-ones that Breilein said resulted in the loss of a seven-year friendship and a barrage of online criticism.

Breilein posted a short slideshow of her wedding website FAQs in a May 1 TikTok, hoping, she told Insider, to reach other brides. Within days, though, the TikTok had been viewed more than 4.8 million times  and Breilein said the exposure came with much online hate.

Since then, Breilein appears to have filtered comments.

Breilein's wedding day FAQs included some innocuous details about parking and accommodations. More contentiously, the FAQs told guests that anyone late to the event wouldn't be permitted entrance, asked them not to take pictures on their phones during the ceremony, and requested guests avoid wearing loud colors. In one slide, Breilein said that her decision not to extend a plus-one to a boyfriend she'd never met ended a friendship of more than seven years.

Some said the latter decision was "pure insanity," but Breilein added that the unmarried or unknown partners of their closest friends  like fiances  were invited; "We didn't want to meet anyone for the first time at our wedding," Breilein said, "with the caveat that if they are going to be in our lives long-term  that would absolutely be alright." This friendship, Breilein said, had grown less close throughout the pandemic. The invite was symbolic: "I still want you to be in my life."

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"There's a big difference between a friendship in which you talk to them every day  they're in your lives, you're going to raise your kids together  versus one where there's maybe some post-pandemic awkwardness."

Ultimately, the friend declined the invite, and the pair haven't talked since.

Many commenters said they agreed with Breilein's decision, sharing stories of similar experiences. Breilein said the loss of a friendship after a wedding was "very common" amongst the brides she'd worked with.

Some criticized Breilein for not allowing late guests to join the wedding ceremony. But, she said, a grand staircase in her venue would have made the interruption exceedingly obvious, and the ceremony itself lasted just ten minutes. Late guests weren't kicked out  they were escorted to a private area and got early access to the bar and snacks. "If you were late, it was probably really fun," Breilein said in a May 2 TikTok.

Despite feeling like she'd been "eaten alive" and by the internet for a few days, Breilein doesn't regret any of her wedding day guidelines which, in her professional experience, were par for the course. Many commenters also rushed to defend her, agreeing that she'd asked for "basic wedding etiquette" from her guests.

By design, her wedding day was different; "The fact that we knew every single person there and I was able to belly laugh  that made it feel so special, and it was so worth it."

Read the original article on Insider
Golda Rosheuvel and India Amarteifio

Though Netflixs Bridgerton prequel series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a piece of fiction, aspects of the show include facts about its titular character. One of the most significant plot points of the show may have been the case in real life: Queen Charlottes race.

Of course, the show opens with the following disclaimer: It is not a history lesson. It is fiction, inspired by fact. All liberties taken by the author are quite intentional. Enjoy.

Golda Rosheuvel reprises her role from the OG series, and India Amarteifio debuts as the young Queen Charlotte in this series.

According to Vogue, over 20 years ago, genealogist Mario de Valdes y Cocom traced the monarchs ancestry back to Pedro V  the fifth king of Portugal. Pedro V allegedly had a child with his mistress Madragana, who historians believe was a woman of color, in 1249. However, because of inbreeding, a practice common in royal circles during the time, Madraganas ethnicity likely stayed within the familys gene pool, meaning Queen Charlotte probably had African heritage and was of mixed race.

A portrait of Queen Charlotte painted by 18th-century artist Allan Ramsay is cited as evidence supporting de Valdes y Cocoms claims. The art piece, which according to The Guardian was painted in 1761 shortly after Queen Charlotte married George III, shows a profile shot of Queen Charlotte in which her features  including skin tone, nose and lip shape  are on display.

Though de Valdes y Cocoms findings are compelling, many historians have been skeptical of the validity, saying its impossible to prove Queen Charlottes race.

If she was Black, historian Kate Williams told The Guardian in 2009, this raises a lot of important suggestions about not only our royal family but those of most of Europe, considering that Queen Victorias descendants are spread across most of the royal families of Europe and beyond.

Queen Charlottes dubious racial background intrigued the Netflix shows creative team.

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Many historians believe that Queen Charlotte was of mixed cultural heritage, executive producer and director Tom Verica told the streamers editorial arm Tudum. We wanted to take that in a different direction than what the history books have said happened  which was basically to bury that and not deal with it. We wanted to shine a light on that element.

As for other Black folks in the U.K. at the time, creator Shonda Rhimes said they took inspiration from the book Black London by Avril Nanton and Jody Burton, in which the authors claim African and British royalty intermingled more than the history books state they did.

I made Agatha [Arsema Thomas] and Lord Danbury [Cyril Nri] off the idea that there were African royalty sending their children to boarding schools in England, she told Shondaland. That was something Id never known either  that there were these incredibly wealthy Africans living in London in a parallel life.
By Elizabeth Piper

KYIV (Reuters) -President Volodymyr Zelenskiy moved on Monday to formalise the day that Ukraine marks the allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two as May 8, aligning it with Western nations in a repudiation of the Soviet past quickly condemned by Moscow.

Speaking to Ukrainians on a hill overlooking Kyiv, Zelenskiy said "the old evil" had returned, this time waged by a "modern Russia" pursuing the same goal as the Nazis of "enslavement and destruction" - but that it would not succeed.

Zelenskiy said he had submitted a bill to parliament officially making May 8 Ukraine's day of remembrance and victory, while May 9 would become Europe Day. Zelenskiy wants Ukraine one day, after the war, to join the European Union.

"We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," he said in a video posted on the president's Telegram channel.

Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender came into force at 11:01 p.m. on May 8, 1945, which was already May 9 in Moscow.

Russia marks the day on May 9, a key national event with huge military parades and commemorations of the enormous sacrifices made by the then-Soviet Union, which lost some 27 million citizens in defeating Nazi Germany.

Ukraine first moved the commemoration to May 8 in 2015, accusing Russia, which had annexed Crimea and fuelled an insurgency in its east the year before, of using the anniversary to whip up Russian nationalism. But it did not formalise the change for fear of stoking internal divisions.

"Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat 'rashism'," Zelenskiy said, using a word Ukrainians have coined to describe what they call Russian fascism.

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"The unity that brings peace closer."

'JUDAS'

The Kremlin said May 9 would remain sacred for many in Ukraine.

"There are veterans there too who took part in the Great Patriotic War, and their relatives, for whom this day is and will remain sacred," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about the change.

Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova went further.

"What is worse than an enemy? A traitor. That is Zelenskiy, the embodiment of Judas in the 21st century... An accomplice of the fascists 80 years later," she said, adding he had betrayed the memory of the Ukrainians who died fighting the Nazis.

Moscow has stepped up attacks on Ukrainian cities including the capital Kyiv in the leadup to May 9, and some commentators say President Vladimir Putin wants to secure some kind of victory in the grinding war to coincide with the holiday.

Zelenskiy said Europe could not let that happen and it was again time to defeat "evil" together "to ensure that no one ever enslaves other peoples or destroys other countries again".

"We do not yet know the date of our victory, but we know that it will be a holiday for the whole of Ukraine, for the whole of Europe, for the whole of the free world."

(Additional reporting by Moscow bureau, editing by Mark Heinrich, Gareth Jones and Philippa Fletcher)
The European Union flag

Read also: Russia can finance war in Ukraine for another year despite sanctions

"Our goal is to prevent Russia and its military industrial complex from finding a way to reach goods banned for them by previous sanctions," European Commission spokesperson Eric Mamer said.

A recent report by the Financial Times said the package could also include restrictions on seven Chinese companies, for their supposed involvement in supplying Moscow with dual-use goods.

On Feb. 25, the European Union introduced its 10th package of sanctions in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, targeting a total of 87 individuals and 34 legal entities. The EU has prohibited the import of synthetic rubber and bitumen from Russia, as well as the transit of dual-use goods through Russia. In addition, Russian citizens are banned from managing organizations that operate the critical infrastructure of the European Union.

Read also: Ukrainian government proposes sectoral sanctions against Iran

Afterwards, Ukrainian PM Denys Shmyhal called for Western sanctions to target Russia's nuclear and diamond industries.

Read also: Key drivers behind Russias ability to fight despite sanctions

Media reports suggest that at some EU countries, including France, Hungary, and Bulgaria, are blocking Brussels from sanctioning Russias nuclear operator Rosatom.

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
Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase

The third annual Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase will be May 13 in Oak Island.

The third annual Coastal Home & Lifestyle Showcase will be held 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 13 at Middleton Park Ext., 4610 E. Dolphin Drive, Oak Island.

This outdoor show will highlight over 40 businesses that specialize in home maintenance and repair, outdoor living and supporting a healthy and active lifestyle. There will also be music by Nowcat and food by Dutch Girl Dogs.

The event is open to the public. Admission is free. Oak Island will suspend paid parking in the area adjacent to Middleton Park during the event. The area adjacent to Middleton Park includes town parking lots and designated parking slips between SE 46th Street East to SE 49th Street.

For more information, call 910-457-6964 or email events@southport-oakisland.com.

More: Full list of outdoor concerts in 2023 for Wilmington, including Brunswick and Pender

Hurricanes and coastal weather hazards in NC

The Museum of Coastal Carolina presents its Sandbar lecture: "Hurricanes & Coastal Weather Hazards in North Carolina." The educational presentation will feature Victoria Oliva from the National Weather Service, 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 9.

Oliva

Oliva will speak on hurricanes and other coastal hazards.

Hurricanes bring many hazards to the Carolina coast, including storm surge, inland flooding due to heavy rain, tornadoes, strong winds, rip currents, and large waves. Oliva will cover various threats and resources such as hurricanes, local and national forecast products, and tips to help you prepare for the hurricane season. Non-tropical coastal hazards will be covered as well, including coastal flooding, waterspouts, and beach safety.

Oliva has a master's degree in atmospheric science from North Carolina State University. She is the surf program leader at the National Weather Service Wilmington, as well as the winter weather lead.

The museum is located at 21 East Second St., Ocean Isle Beach.

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More: From fro-yo to doughnuts, check out these new sweet shops in Brunswick County

Brunswick Town Chapter DAR

National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Brunswick Town Chapter will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 10 in person and by Zoom. A catered lunch follows.

The guest speaker will be Judy Caison, District 7 Chair for North Carolina DAR. She will also install the chapters new officers for 2023-24. Guests are welcome to attend.

Daughters of the American Revolution is a service organization founded in 1890 for women who can prove direct, blood lineage from a Revolutionary War Patriot. The organization promotes patriotism, education, and historic preservation.

For more information, contact Martha Koletar, mkoletar@aol.com or Jane Johnson, jjatbhi@bellsouth.net.

Art reception at Leland Cultural Arts Center

An art reception will be held for Huei-Chi Connally, May 10 at the Leland Cultural Arts Center.

A gallery reception for Huei-Chi Connally will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 10 at the Leland Cultural Arts Center, 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland.

Through traditional oriental painting techniques, Connally hopes to share an appreciation of other cultures and inspire others to embrace creativity in the later stages of life.

Artwork displayed through May 25.

Blood drive

The American Legion John E. Jacobs Post 68 is sponsoring a blood drive, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Friday, May 12 at the WWAY TV Studio, 1224 Magnolia Village Way, Leland. All blood types are needed.

For your convenience parking will be at the Leland Arts Center parking lot, a shuttle will be available.

Please sign up to give at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive?cid=bio_og&med=social&source=social or call 1-800- 733-2767. You can pre-register and streamline your visit to give blood.

Homeschool Friday: Civil War Spies and Communications

Homeschool Friday: Civil War Spies and Communications, appropriate for ages 4-18, will be held 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, May 12 at North Carolina Maritime Museum in Southport, 204 E. Moore St. The cost is $5 per student is payable at the door.

Please email shannon.walker@ncdcr.gov or call 910-477-5151 to register. Registration closes at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 11.

During times of war, getting a message across enemy lines can get extra tricky. Participants will have the opportunity to explore history through hands-on activities, stations, and take-homes.

Calabash's 50th anniversary

Calabash, a small fishing town in Brunswick County known as the "Seafood Capital of the World," will celebrate its 50th anniversary, noon-8 p.m. Saturday, May 13 at Calabash Community Park, 868 Persimmon Road.

Events will feature a Rubber Duckie Race on the Calabash River, around noon (depending on tide), and live music at 6 p.m. with the Blackwater Band, on the waterfront, corner of Oak Street and Riverview Drive.

For more information, call 910-579-6747, ext. 3.

More: Another Brunswick County town has plans to enhance its waterfront

More: PHOTOS: Taste of Calabash Festival offers food and fun

History in miniature: Using Models to Visualize the Past

The Wilmington Plastic Modelers Club will be meeting 1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 13 at the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Southport, 204 E. Moore St.

The club's theme will be "History in Miniature: Using Models to Visualize the Past." There will be all types of ships, planes, tanks, and cars on display.

If you have a model, you would like help with, please bring it with you. Free.

STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the areas latest Brunswick County news by signing up for the Brunswick Today newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Brunswick events this week include Calabash's 50th anniversary
Tesla electric cars charge at a Supercharger. George Rose/Getty Images

A California man said he was lucky to be alive after his Tesla car caught fire while driving.

Bishal Malla was on his way home and about to enter Highway 99 when his car started shaking.

When he checked for a flat tire, he saw smoke and immediately evacuated before calling 911.

A California man said he was lucky to be alive after his Tesla started shaking and caught fire while he was driving.

Bishal Malla told KCRA 3, an NBC-affiliated TV channel in Sacramento, California, that he was on his way home on Saturday after running some errands when he felt his electric car shaking.

He stopped as he was about to enter Highway 99, also known as California's main street. He checked for a flat tire, but "the moment that I opened the door, I saw smoke coming from the bottom," Malla told the outlet.

Malla immediately evacuated and called 911.

"I am so lucky to be alive at the moment," Malla told KCRA 3, "and I'm sure glad that my family was not there." He said he has two young children aged 3 and 1.

It isn't clear why Malla's Tesla caught fire. But Robert Kasparian, the fire department battalion chief, told KCRA 3 that the best thing firefighters can do with an electric vehicle fire is to let it burn.

"The issue with the electric vehicles is access to the batteries," Kasparian said. "The batteries are what are causing the enormous amount of heat buildup."

Earlier this year, the Sacramento fire department reported another similar incident. The battery compartment of a Tesla Model S spontaneously caught fire while driving on a highway.

Metro Fire of Sacramento (@metrofirepio) January 29, 2023

Out of 182 Tesla vehicles catching fire worldwide since 2013, 98 were in the United States, according to Tesla Fire, which records all fires involving Elon Musk's electric cars reported by news articles or verified primary sources.

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On May 20 of last year, a Tesla owner said he had to kick out the window of his Model Y to escape a fire after the electric car lost power in Vancouver, British Columbia. He was one among three Tesla fires reported in a matter of days.

Ediel Ruiz, another owner, said his Model 3 caught fire in California on May 14, 2022, and told a local news outlet that it started near the rear of the car, under his four-month-old's car seat.

However, despite the difficulty of addressing EV fires as described by the fire department, they're not generally common. A 2022 report from AutoinsuranceEZ suggested that EVs were generally less likely to catch fire than combustion-engine vehicles.

Tesla didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider, made outside regular working hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is adding a third visiting day each weekend for inmates and is offering free bus rides for families wanting to visit their loved ones incarcerated in any of its prison facilities.

CDCR officials said its prisons statewide will move to three days of in-person weekend visiting on July 7, which is in line with the state Legislatures intent to expand in-person visits.

The expansion of three in-person visiting days a week, while offering free transportation statewide, will allow us to meet demand at our busier institutions and provide more opportunities for people to see their loved ones  enhancing public safety by promoting successful community reintegration, CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber said in a news release.

The expansion to three visiting days at prisons statewide will happen as CDCR ends video weekend visits at most of its facilities. The video visitation was a temporary measure implemented three years ago to prevent further spread of COVID-19.

During the previous fiscal year, the California Legislature approved $20.3 million to expand in-person visits to three days, according to the CDCR. The state prisons in August 2021 expanded its weekend visits to Fridays, offering a hybrid of video and in-person weekend visiting.

CDCR has partnered with TransMETRO to provide free bus rides to all California state adult prisons. This bus rides will be available to anyone who has been approved as a visitor by CDCR.

The buses depart Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Central, Southern, Northern, and Bay Area regions. Each region schedules service to all institutions on a rotating basis. Interested visitors can register for the free bus rides using the online portal on CDCRs website. The Northern California bus schedule shows departures from Sacramento, Stockton, Chico and Redding.

CDCR also is launching a new Facility Status web page that will provide the latest visiting status information for each prison with the most current hours of in-person visiting and if there will be impacts due to events like emergencies or holidays.

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CDCR used to offer two days of in-person visiting on Saturdays and Sundays. But those visits were suspended in March 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent further spread of the infectious virus, CDCR offered video visits at all prisons by the end of 2020 as safe and temporary alternative.

In the spring 2021, CDCR began a temporary hybrid plan of video and in-person weekend visits. CDCR officials said weekend video visits were always intended to be a temporary measure during the pandemic.

CDCR officials said conservation camps will continue hybrid video and in-person visits on Saturdays and Sundays, since those facilities do not have three days of visiting. But weekend video visits will end July 7 at all other CDCR facilities.

CDCR will continue to offer inmates opportunities for them communicate with friends and family through tablets and phone calls. Inmates are eligible for 15 minutes of free video calls from their tablet every two weeks, and phone calls made from standard institution wall phones and tablets are always free of charge.
By Eduardo Baptista and Ryan Woo

BEIJING (Reuters) -China on Tuesday expelled a Canadian diplomat in Shanghai in a tit-for-tat move after Ottawa told a Toronto-based Chinese diplomat to leave, escalating tense relations amid concerns about Chinese influence in Canada.

Canada expelled Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei on Monday after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker critical of China's treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority.

"We will not tolerate any form of foreign interference," Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said on Monday.

In response to Canada's "unreasonable actions", China told Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, consul of the Canadian consulate in Shanghai, to leave China by May 13, according to the Chinese foreign ministry in a statement.

China reserves the right to respond further, the foreign ministry added.

"In response to the Canadian side's unreasonable provocation, China has adopted corresponding retaliatory measures," said Wang Wenbin, spokesperson at the Chinese foreign ministry, at a regular news conference. "This was absolutely just and necessary. We urge Canada to immediately stop its unreasonable provocations."

Wang added that if Canada did not heed Beijing's warning and continues to "act recklessly", China will "fight back resolutely and forcefully, and the Canadian side must bear all the consequences."

Diplomatic tensions have been running high since the detention of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges. All three were freed in 2021.

Last year, Beijing lifted a three-year ban on imports of canola, Canada's largest crop, from trading companies Richardson International and Viterra. The restrictions followed Meng's arrest, but China cited concerns about pests. China is also a major importer of Canadian potash and wheat.

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Spy agency Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) authored a report in 2021 about Chinese influence in Canada that included information about potential threats to Conservative Member of Parliament Michael Chong and his family.

Details of the CSIS report came to light on May 1, when Canada's Globe and Mail newspaper reported China sought information about Chong and his family in China in a likely effort to "make an example" of him and deter others from taking an anti-Chinese government position.

"It shouldn't have taken two years for the government to make this decision," Chong told reporters after the announcement.

China has said it has never interfered in Canada's internal affairs and has no interest in doing so. China's Toronto consulate-general said the report on Chong has "no factual basis and is purely baseless."

The Globe, citing an unnamed national security source, said Zhao was involved in gathering information about Chong, who in 2021 sponsored a successful motion declaring China's treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority genocide.

Chong said he was "profoundly disappointed" to find out about the potential threat to his family in Hong Kong from a newspaper, and criticised Trudeau's government for inaction. He repeatedly called for Zhao's expulsion since the Globe report.

Trudeau said he found out about the intelligence report from the newspaper, and on Wednesday blamed the spy agency for not passing it onto him at the time.

The agency has now been directed to immediately pass on information about threats to members of parliament and their families.

Canadian media outlets have published several reports, citing anonymous intelligence sources, alleging schemes run by the Chinese government to interfere in Canada's last two elections. Beijing has denied those allegations.

Trudeau has said China attempted to meddle in the 2019 and 2021 votes, but that the efforts did not change the outcome. He has appointed an independent special investigator to probe the allegations.

(Reporting by Steve Scherer and Ismail Shakil in Ottawa and Eduardo Baptista and Ryan Woo in Beijing; Editing by Michael Perry, Gerry Doyle and Jacqueline Wong)
(Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government has expelled a Chinese envoy from Canada, a move that could prompt economic or diplomatic backlash from President Xi Jinping.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The envoy, Zhao Wei, was named in a Globe and Mail report last week that cited a leaked Canadian intelligence document. The newspaper reported the document, dated July 2021, revealed the diplomat was looking into penalizing Conservative lawmaker Michael Chong over his hard-line positions on the Beijing government, punishment that could entail sanctioning Chongs relatives in Hong Kong.

Zhao has been ordered to leave the country, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said Monday in a statement.

I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behavior, they will be sent home, she said. This decision has been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play.

Chinas embassy in Ottawa immediately said it would retaliate.

In a statement posted to its website in Chinese, an unnamed spokesperson said the Trudeau governments move seriously violates not only international law and the basic norms of international relations and deliberately undermines China-Canada relations.

The embassy said it has lodged a formal protest. China will resolutely take countermeasures, and Canada will bear all the consequences arising therefrom, the spokesperson said.

The May 1 story in the Globe and and Mail kicked off a firestorm over why Chong hadnt been informed that China was targeting his family, and why the diplomat was still allowed to work at the consulate in Toronto.

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Trudeau told reporters he was never briefed on the matter, as the countrys intelligence agency determined it wasnt serious enough to require notifying him. However, conflicting information emerged that at least one of Trudeaus security advisers had been informed, even if the prime minister himself wasnt.

Jolys statement Monday was released as Canadian lawmakers were voting on a Conservative motion that called on the government to expel all Chinese diplomats responsible for foreign interference. The non-binding motion passed despite members of the governing Liberal Party voting against it.

In remarks to the House of Commons shortly after the diplomat was expelled, Chong maintained that the Trudeau government had failed him. It is a serious thing to intimidate a member of this House, directly or indirectly, in order to affect the outcome of a debate, in order to affect the outcome of votes, Chong said.

The rise of authoritarianism has put democracies on their back heels over the past decade, he added. In that context, Chong said its important to set an example for all the world to see that we will not be intimidated, that we will not be cowed and that we will stand up for the democratic rights of Canadians.

Speaking to reporters outside the legislature, Chong said he had purposely cut off contact with his family in Hong Kong in order to protect them.

On Friday, Trudeau said that expelling the diplomat would be a big step, and that Joly was examining the potential consequences.

The foreign minister told a parliamentary committee she was assessing the potential blowback from a diplomatic expulsion and specifically mentioned the Two Michaels crisis, when China detained two Canadians for nearly three years after Canada arrested a Huawei Technologies Co. executive on a US extradition order.

The Chong controversy is just the latest in a series of media reports this year that have alleged China has interfered in Canadian affairs and that Trudeau hasnt responded strongly enough.

Multiple stories have alleged Trudeau received intelligence briefings on Chinese attempts to meddle in Canadas 2019 and 2021 elections, which his Liberal Party won. Trudeau has resisted calls for a public inquiry into the matter and has instead appointed a special rapporteur to examine the evidence and decide if an inquiry is warranted.

--With assistance from Jacob Gu.

(Updates with response from Chinas embassy in 4th paragraph.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada wants to work more closely with allies including Australia, United States and the UK in areas of advanced technologies, Defense Minister Anita Anand said on Monday, when asked if the country wanted to join the AUKUS defense alliance.

"Canada is highly interested in furthering cooperation on AI, quantum computing and other advanced technologies with a defense nexus with our closest allies," Anand told reporters in Ottawa, when asked about a newspaper report saying Ottawa was seeking to join the AUKUS alliance.

The Canadian government wants to take advantage of the information-sharing and advanced technologies development part of the alliance, including undersea defense capabilities, the Globe and Mail reported earlier on Monday, citing unnamed government sources.

The Globe said Ottawa was only seeking to join only the non-nuclear component of the security alliance between Australia, UK and the U.S., which was launched in 2021.

The security pact also aims to provide Australia with the technology and capability to deploy nuclear-powered submarines.

The pact has been denounced by countries including China and France, which lost its own submarine deal with Australia after the alliance was formed. Canada's exclusion from the alliance was also seen as a snub by some for a country already in the intelligence-sharing Five Eyes alliance with AUKUS members and New Zealand.

"Our ties with our Five Eyes allies are strong, and indeed we remain interested in furthering cooperation in AI and other innovation efforts with our allies," Anand said.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; editing by Steve Scherer and Jonathan Oatis)
Carlos Alcaraz turned 20 on May 5, and he celebrated the end of his teen years by winning his second consecutive Madrid Open title just two days later, defeating Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

It wasn't an easy final for Alcaraz, who lost to Struff in the third round of the 2021 French Open. Struff has a monster serve and is a great returner (the commentators on Sunday couldn't stop comparing him to Pete Sampras), which allows him to dictate the pace with shorter points. That stymies Alcaraz's game, because he's all about longer rallies that allow him to show off his range of movement and killer drop shot.

After taking a close first set, Alcaraz struggled throughout the second set, looking lost and even confused at times against Struff, who was absolutely dominating. Alcaraz has an impressive tennis toolbox, but it was useless against Struff because Alcaraz had no time to use it. Instead of being able to set himself, Alcaraz was chasing balls all around the court, dashing from one side to the other like he was playing, well, himself.

Five break points saved @Struffitennis digs out a HUGE hold for a 4-1 lead on Alcaraz in the second set!#MMOpen pic.twitter.com/rfOeOm6U3p  Tennis TV (@TennisTV) May 7, 2023

Alcaraz managed to find himself again by the third set and shut down Struff to win his 10th career title  becoming the sixth-youngest man to win 10 tour-level titles in the Open Era.

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Carlos Alcaraz hits one of the most delicate & controlled backhand drop volleys Ive seen in a long time



His athletic ability is so great that he really couldve played any sport & been great.



Lets all be thankful he chose tennis 



pic.twitter.com/5mpBYsPeYk  The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 5, 2023

After winning Madrid in 2022 (where he'd beaten both Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic), Alcaraz opted to rest up for the French Open. But this year, he's powering right on through. He told Amazon Prime on Sunday that he wants to go to Rome and play in the Italian Open, the final tournament before Roland Garros.

Alcaraz planning to go to Rome.



I really want to go to Rome. I have never played there, I really want to play there in front of the Italian crowd.



- Carlos Alcaraz to @CWhitakerSport on Prime.  The Tennis Podcast (@TennisPodcast) May 7, 2023

Alcaraz will take No. 1 spot from Djokovic

Alcaraz is poised to retake the ATP No. 1 spot at the Rome Masters after spending 11 of the last 12 weeks ranked No. 2 behind 2023 Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic. And he doesn't have to play a single game to do it.

Djokovic, who dropped 360 ranking points after missing the Madrid Open with an elbow injury, holds just a five-point lead on Alcaraz. Since Alcaraz will gain 10 points by simply showing up in Rome, he'll retake No. 1 no matter what.

But Alcaraz obviously has his sights set higher than being No. 1 by just showing up. Despite having never played at the Italian Open, Alcaraz has a decent chance of winning just by looking at his recent results. After missing the 2023 Australian Open due to an elbow injury, he beat Cam Norrie to won a title in Buenos Aires back in February. He lost to Norrie in the finals at Rio just a few weeks later, then bounced back by winning three of his next four tournaments.

Alcaraz is on a tear. Someone can try to stop him as the clay season wraps up in Rome and Paris, but they may not have any luck. Alcaraz is clearly in the zone and thriving on his favorite surface.
Mobilization in Ukraine: is it possible to return men aged 18 to 60 after leaving the border

During this time, all men between aged 18 to 60 are considered conscripts and can be called up for military service. They are also banned from leaving Ukraine, except for a list of categories of men (resolution No. 57 of the Cabinet of Ministers) who are allowed to travel abroad during the war.

Read also: Ukraines Rada again extends martial law, mobilization

Spokesman for the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Andriy Demchenko told national television on May 8 that those men who are trying to illegally cross the border during martial law will be returned to Ukraine.

According to the spokesman, conscripts who crossed the border in violation of the law have no grounds for receiving refugee status abroad, while EU countries are cooperating with Ukraine to return such men back.

Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, weve been cooperating with our colleagues from the European Union and Moldova to counter any attempts at illegal border crossing, he said.

Read also: Rada supports bill on granting vacations to servicemen during martial law

Some are trying to immediately apply for refugee status, but they have no grounds for obtaining such a status.

The procedure for the organization and maintenance of military records of conscripts and reservists established by government resolution No. 1487 provides that men aged 18 to 60 are registered for military service in Ukrainian diplomatic institutions abroad.

Diplomatic institutions collect, store and transfer this data to Ukraine, and are also obliged to facilitate the return of conscripts if a draft is announced in Ukraine.

According to military lawyer Yaroslav Zhukrovsky, the enemy is spreading rumors and disinformation that Ukrainian men are being put on buses and taken to Ukraine.

First of all, (diplomatic institutions) inform citizens who have entered the consular register and have reached conscription age about the start of the next draft, he said.

Second, they facilitate the return of conscripts to their homeland. The word facilitate is the most controversial here. Rumors that Ukrainians abroad will be packed into buses and forcibly taken to Ukraine arent true. But Ukrainian legislation doesnt explain what exactly facilitating return means.

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Zhukrovsky also noted that military registration at diplomatic institutions and undergoing military medical commissions or mobilization are not the same, as this is the recording of a citizen in the military registration documents of consulates, which are then transferred to territorial recruiting centers in Ukraine.

Read also: Ukraine's Defense Ministry assesses risk of Russia escalating war on May 9

Can summonses be issued abroad or men deported?

Resolution No. 1487 does not provide for such an obligation as issuing summonses to conscripts, therefore no one issue or will issue them, while rumors about similar cases or situations are Russian disinformation.

According to Ukrainian legislation, foreign diplomatic institutions cannot serve summonses, the lawyer said.

After all, a summons is a document that invites a person to a territorial recruiting center to clarify military data or undergo examination by a military medical commission.

Zhukrovsky added that the deportation of conscripts to Ukraine has no legal basis, so Ukrainian diplomatic institutions cannot do it.

Military registration at foreign diplomatic institutions is, most likely, a declarative mechanism for clarifying the data of Ukrainian citizens, he said.

Ignoring this rule is not grounds for deportation. Diplomatic institutions have no legal grounds for this.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A federal grand jury indicted a university professor living in West Sacramento who is accused of possessing child pornography after he was snared in an undercover FBI investigation, prosecutors said.

Rodger Githens, 45, has been charged with receiving and distributing images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in Sacramento.

Githens is an associate professor at the University of the Pacific in Stockton; his expertise and research focus on human resources development.

He was arrested on April 19, and the grand jury indicted him on Thursday. Githens remained in custody Monday at the Fresno County Jail. Githens appeared for his arraignment Thursday in federal court. He pleaded not guilty and was ordered to return to court July 12 for further proceedings in his case.

Federal prosecutors said Githens in late March was using an online profile called Tall laid back and initiated contact with an account on the Grindr app used by an undercover FBI agent. Githens allegedly encouraged the undercover FBI agent to create an account on the Telegram app, because it was considered more secure.

Githens several times discussed traveling to Fresno to meet the undercover agent and a supposed 7-year-old niece for sexual purposes, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. The FBI, with help from the West Sacramento Police Department, served a search warrant at Githens home on April 19, confiscating multiple electronic devices.

Prosecutors said investigators discovered numerous Telegram chats on Githens phone, including several in which he exchanged and commented on videos of young children being sexually abused.

University of the Pacific officials told KCRA 3 last month that Githens was immediately placed on indefinite administrative leave. UOP officials also said that while there was no indication of illegal acts on campus or involving university property, the university was launching an independent review by an external investigator.

If convicted, Githens could face five to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and parole for the rest of his life, prosecutors said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Just how does this debt limit standoff end?

Plenty of scenarios are being publicly and privately gamed out, but no one knows for sure. The possibilities range from kumbaya to economic chaos with plenty of possibilities in between.

So far, neither President Joe Biden nor House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., is giving ground ahead of talks slated for Tuesday. Biden wants to increase the government's $31.4 trillion legal borrowing limit, so that the federal government can continue to pay its bills and the risk of a historic default goes away. McCarthy and other GOP lawmakers want a deal that guarantees trillions of dollars in spending cuts before they sign on to raising the debt limit.

Time is short: The Treasury Department warns the U.S. could default as soon as June 1 if there is no deal.

A look at potential outcomes:

LET'S AGREE TO DISAGREE

The president wants to disarm the whole debate by having Republicans make a public commitment that the U.S. won't default. He'd then be ready to discuss spending, taxes and other budget issues.

He wants an assurance from McCarthy that the U.S. can keep paying all of its bills by having the ability to keep borrowing. The president says he's ready to have a public debate with GOP lawmakers about the budget, just not with the world's largest economy held hostage.

As Ive said all along, we can debate where to cut, how much to spend, how to finally move the tax system where everybody begins to pay their fair share, Biden said. But not under the threat of default.

It's unclear how many GOP lawmakers share his definition of default. Some suggest a default would only apply to unpaid debt, while the administration wants to include the salaries of federal workers, repayments for contractors and aid to the poor, veterans, schools and others.

Shortly before the House narrowly passed a bill with $4.5 trillion in deficit savings along party lines, McCarthy said the U.S. would not default. But he is still linking that issue directly to spending cuts in a way that Biden wants to avoid.

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Addressing the debt requires us to come together, find common ground, and reduce spending, McCarthy said last month. Let me be clear: Defaulting on our debt is not an option, but neither is a future of higher taxes.

REPUBLICANS HOLD TIGHT

Congressional Republicans could hold firm and force Democrats to wobble.

McCarthy has a slim majority in the House: 222 Republicans, compared to 213 Democrats.

His debt limit bill would reverse discretionary spending to 2022 levels, then place a 1% cap on increases going forward. The bill also would reverse Biden's forgiveness of student loan debt, his increased funding for the IRS and the tax incentives created in 2022 to encourage the adoption of clean energy. Those cuts would extend the debt limit through March 31, 2024, or up to an additional $1.5 trillion.

GOP conservatives such as South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman and others say they won't back anything less than that bill House Republicans passed on April 27 with 217 votes.

But Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., won't let that bill make it through the Senate. Neither will Biden. The question as the deadline approaches is whether Republicans stay united and that causes Democrats to cave. There is also the risk that dissent within the GOP caucus could put McCarthy's speakership at risk, which could then make it even more challenging to reach an agreement.

The question is what kind of an agreement could get through the House, the Senate and the Oval Office.

GET AN EXTENSION

Washington loves to put things off  the old kick the can down the road routine.

There is the possibility that lawmakers could agree to a short-term extension, pushing the debt limit expiration to Sept. 30, when a federal budget also needs to be passed.

This would be in line with the GOP's effort to sync the budget debate with the debt limit, while also removing the immediate risk of a default. It's the option government officials generally discuss in private with the most optimism.

Still, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries tried to pour cold water on that idea in a Sunday interview with NBC News.

I dont think the responsible thing to do is to kick the can down the road, Jeffries said, even as he prioritized the importance of avoiding a default.

MARKETS GO CRAZY

Wall Street could save the day, sort of, by having a meltdown.

Along with economists, Senate Budget Committee Chairman Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., has indicated that a stiff market selloff could force Republicans to retreat. Their donors would holler about the pending financial losses and give every lawmaker an incentive to be the hero and rescue the jobs and retirement savings of millions of Americans.

Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at the consultancy RSM US, said in a Monday email that the talk of a potential default already is making it more expensive for investors to buy insurance on U.S. Treasury notes. But the panic is largely contained, so far, from the broader stock market that many voters and lawmakers follow.

14th AMENDMENT

Biden could play the Constitution card.

The 14th Amendment became part of the Constitution after the Civil War. It states that the validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, ... shall not be questioned.

Laurence Tribe, an emeritus Harvard University law school professor, wrote Sunday in The New York Times that Biden can argue he has a constitutional duty to avoid default and thus can blow past the debt limit to continue the spending Congress has already approved. On Monday, a union of government employee s sued Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Biden to make the argument that they are constitutionally obligated to disregard the debt limit.

As a former senator, Biden likes to defer to Congress. But when pressed about invoking the 14th Amendment during last week, he kept his options open.

Ive not gotten there yet, he told MSNBC.

Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., said Biden cannot act unilaterally. He told ABC News that the Constitution is very clear that spending  all those details around spending and money actually has to come through Congress.

MINT A COIN

This is among the many creative  and unlikely  solutions circulating on the internet. The idea is that the government could mint a $1 trillion platinum coin and use it to avoid a default. Basically, there is a loophole in the law that could allow the U.S. to mint a coin of any denomination if it's made of platinum.

That has at least one big problem: Yellen ruled out the idea in a January interview with The Wall Street Journal, calling it something that's a gimmick.

DEFAULT

This is the scariest possibility.

If there's no deal, the U.S. government could reach its X-date  the moment when it no longer can pay all of its bills. The Treasury Department would no longer be able to use accounting strategies to keep the government open. If the government were no longer able to borrow, unpaid bills would mount and the government would default.

But, but, but ... not all defaults are the same.

The U.S. could briefly miss some payments, and the risk of things getting worse could jolt lawmakers into reaching a deal. But even a brief default would cost the economy 500,000 jobs, according to a White House analysis. A protracted default would cost 8.3 million jobs, according to the analysis, almost as many job losses as there were during the 2008 financial crisis.
NEW DELHI  A double-decker boat carrying more than 30 passengers capsized Sunday night off a beach in southern India, and more than 22 people including children died, officials said.

Police officer Abdul Nazar said the rescue teams were expecting to recover more bodies from inside the boat after pulling it ashore from the muddy waters. He said India's National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard personnel were engaged in rescue work and trying find those who were still missing.

The tourist boat capsized near the estuary of Poorappuzha River in Tanur, a coastal town in Kerala state's Malappuram district, and most of the passengers were tourists. Nazar said authorities were investigating the cause of the accident and it appeared the boat capsized due to overcrowding.

The dead included children who had come for a ride on the boat during their school vacation, Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman told the Press Trust of India news agency, adding that four people in critical condition were admitted to a hospital.

Rescuers on a boat search after a tourist boat capsized Sunday night in Malappuram, Kerala, India, Monday, May 8, 2023. More than a dozen were killed. (AP Photo/P.P. Afthab)

The state's chief minister, who will visit the area Monday, tweeted his condolences to the victims' families and urged the district's authorities to oversee the rescue.

Monday has been declared a day of official mourning, PTI reported, quoting a government statement.Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was "pained by the loss of lives" and announced compensation to the victims' families in a tweet.

Boating accidents are common in India, where many vessels are overcrowded and have inadequate safety equipment.

In September 2020, 12 people drowned when a sightseeing boat capsized on the swollen Godavari River in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh. In May 2018, 30 people died when a boat capsized in the same region.

More coverage from USA TODAY

'The luxury of shuttle diplomacy': McConnell could use ties to McCarthy and Biden to end debt fight

In San Francisco, the cars are driverless, the humans are baffled and future is uncertain

Story continues

Kids' brains may develop better in states with more generous safety net programs, study finds

'I don't have anything in my refrigerator': GOP debt ceiling plan would cut SNAP benefits

Ukraine shoots down 35 drones over Kyiv; Russia cancels many Victory Day parades: Live updates

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: india tourist boat capsizes 22 killed
Under AIrrest

The age of artificial intelligence arrests appears to have kicked off in earnest in China, where a man was detained for using ChatGPT to allegedly generate fake news. As the South China Morning Post reports, a man identified only by his surname has been arrested in the country's Gansu province after, per local police, "using artificial intelligence technology to concoct false and untrue information." The fake news in question apparently claimed, falsely, that nine people had died in a train accident at the end of April. A bunch of different versions of the story were reportedly published to Baijihao, a news blog-esque social network run by the Chinese search engine Baidu. As the SCMP notes, this appears to be the first time that the public has been made aware of any arrests under China's new "deepfake" regulations, which bar the use of "deep synthesis" software without visible labeling.

Legalese

Known as the "The Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis for Internet Information Service," the new law, which took effect in January, requires all AI-edited content to be explicitly labeled and have its original, real-life source listed. It also demands that anyone who uses generative software to edit someone's voice or image alert the person in question and get their consent to do so. The sweeping new regulation also lists about 1,300 government-approved news sites allowed to use generative AI to write or create content, and indicates that all content made with AI must maintain "correct political direction and correct public opinion orientation," per its wording. The report indicates that the suspect used ChatGPT specifically, which although not available in China is easily accessed through a VPN. He was charged, per local police, with "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," a broad charge that can ultimately result in five to ten years in prison. With AI's ability to make believable fake content increasing every day, regulation of it is necessary  and although China's approach does sound draconian, maybe there are some glimmers of policy that could benefit the rest of the world here. More on fake nudes: People Are Actually Selling AI-Generated Nudes on Reddit
China has ramped up its efforts to clamp down on foreign data procurement in a move partially motivated by U.S. think tank efforts to monitor hard to find information on Beijing and its "military-civil fusion" strategy, a report by the Wall Street Journal found Monday.

As tension and competition between the U.S. and China continues to mount, Beijing has recently taken steps to restrict overseas access to its databases and tighten its control over Western narratives relating to China.

An espionage act revised late last month has drawn concern from the international business community, which has argued that the new guidelines could make continuing business with the worlds second-largest economy more risky.

CHINA'S SURPRISING INTELLIGENCE OPERATIONS TAKE FOCUS FOLLOWING 'WATERSHED' SPY FLIGHT

Western consulting, legal, cyber and auditing firms may find it harder to conduct business with Beijing following President Xi Jinpings move to expand Chinas power over private entities and control access to data and financial records.

But according to anonymous sources familiar with Beijings efforts, the increased restrictions are apparently due to mounting concern among top Chinese officials over the intelligence that U.S. analysts have been able to garner by using publicly available information.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Chinas push toward a "military-civil fusion"  which the State Department describes as "aggressive"  has been of particular interest to U.S. think tanks.

The department has detailed the Chinese strategy as a ploy to remove "barriers between China's civilian research and commercial sectors, and its military and defense industrial sectors" in a move to enhance its "Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) into a world-class military by 2049."

But Beijings military integration of the commercial sector does not only utilize its own private sphere.

New recruits of Chinese People's Liberation Army attend a sendoff ceremony at a railway station in Ganzhou, Jiangxi province, March 16, 2023.

REGULATION COULD ALLOW CHINA TO DOMINATE IN THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RACE, EXPERTS WARN: 'WE WILL LOSE'

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Chinas notoriously ambiguous policies toward private foreign companies and its possible access to entity intel have long concerned Western officials  prompting U.S. think tanks and analysts to scour publicly available information for answers.

One June 2022 report by the Center for Security and Emerging Technology titled "Silicon Twist" apparently struck Chinese officials as particularly concerning as it focused on how Chinas military was accessing "advanced chips" produced by private American companies in Taiwan and South Korea, sources told the Wall Street Journal.

Analysts were reportedly able to detail how the PLA has gained access to these chips after viewing thousands of publicly available purchasing records and financial data.

The information that these think tanks are able to acquire has been utilized by U.S. lawmakers when it comes to implementing Washingtons security and trade policies with Beijing.

A person rides a bicycle past a giant screen broadcasting news footage of Chinese ships participating in "Joint Sword" exercises around Taiwan, in Beijing, April 8, 2023.

Findings by the Center for a New American Security have also reportedly been used in testimony presented to one congressional group, dubbed the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, on Beijings military use of artificial intelligence to bolster its combat abilities.

But as Beijing continues to limit access to data and financial information, analysts and investors alike are increasingly concerned by the even greater potential there is for an ambiguous future when it comes to the U.S.s economic and policy-based relationship with China.

Isaac Stone Fish, CEO of Strategy Risks, a China-focused risk firm, told Fox News Digital, "Beijing wants companies to increasingly work with the Chinese Communist Party, while Washington wants them to reduce their exposure to the Party. Its a major decision every large American company needs to make: companies can no longer sit on the sidelines.

"They have to lean one way or the other. They also have to understand that both Beijing and Washington want them to choose," he added.
(Bloomberg) -- China is expected to roll out new policies to protect supply chains and boost its birth rate, after President Xi Jinping led a high-profile meeting that established these areas as top economic priorities.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Economists at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. say the government could announce new specific measures on how to address those challenges in coming months, including possible subsidies for manufacturing and changes to education policies.

China has become increasingly alert to supply chain security risks amid a US push to cut it off from advanced chip technology, as tensions flare with Washington. Adding to those geopolitical economic headwinds, Chinas population started shrinking last year for the first time in six decades, signaling a demographic crisis. The nations workforce has also fallen by more than 41 million people in the past three years.

The Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission highlighted industrial security as the priority of priorities, according to a readout of the meeting on Friday. Officials also vowed to step up efforts to achieve core technology breakthroughs as part of efforts to maintain strategic advantages in development and international competition.

Top officials also called for measures to address the nations falling birthrate. Population development is an issue key to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, Xi said at the meeting, the official Xinhua News Agency reported. Authorities will take measures to stabilize the labor participation rate, optimize the quality and structure of the labor force, and ensure its ample supply and reasonable distribution, according to the statement.

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The statement demonstrated policymakers goal in the next few years, and we might see other party/government institutions roll out more concrete policy measures under the guidance of this statement, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. economists including Maggie Wei wrote in a Monday note.

The Goldman economists also said policymakers could step up credit support and government subsidies for manufacturing upgrading and innovation in the coming months, and increase trade ties with other economies.

The focus on both industrial policy and demographic challenges aims to boost Chinas long-term productivity and competitiveness, Tommy Xie, head of greater China research at OCBC Bank, wrote in a Monday note, adding that more health and education related policies to address the demographic challenges would likely follow.

Education stocks traded in mainland China jumped on Monday, helping send the benchmark CSI 300 Index up by as much as 1.3%, leading advances in Asian shares.

The Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission, which is headed by Xi, is the ruling Communist Partys top economic policymaking body. Fridays meeting marks the groups first gathering since Octobers leadership reshuffle, and was attended by Premier Li Qiang, the commissions deputy director. Xis chief of staff Cai Qi and Ding Xuexiang, a vice premier, were also present as members of the group.

The officials also promised to treasure and take care of entrepreneurs as they aim to build world-class companies and rely on the business world to make innovations.

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(Bloomberg) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met US Ambassador Nicholas Burns in the highest-level meeting in weeks between the worlds biggest economies, signaling that Beijing may soon allow more senior-level discussions after rebuffing requests from the Biden administration.

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Qin asked the American envoy to serve as a bridge between their nations at a meeting on Monday in Beijing, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The top priority is to stabilize Sino-US relations, avoid a downward spiral, and prevent accidents between China and the United States, he said.

High-level exchanges between China and the US have deteriorated in recent months, after an alleged Chinese spy balloon transited the US in February causing Secretary of State Antony Blinken to cancel a trip to Beijing. Since then, Beijing has stonewalled Washingtons efforts to resume top-level engagements, and the two nations remain at odds over a range of issues, including tech curbs, Taiwan, sanctions and Russias war in Ukraine.

Qin blamed the US for the recent flare in tensions, saying a series of erroneous words and deeds had undermined the positive momentum achieved after Chinese leader Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden met in Bali last November. Its not possible to talk about communication on the one hand, but to keep suppressing and containing China on the other hand, Qin said.

Burns on Twitter said the two men discussed challenges in the US-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin called the exchange a normal diplomatic meeting at a briefing in Beijing on Monday.

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The sit down was the first between Qin and Burns since the Chinese official became foreign minister in December. It came two weeks after Burns met with diplomat Liu Jianchao, the head of the Communist Partys International Department, which is also a ministerial-level position. That was the American envoys first known meeting with a senior Chinese official since mid-February.

Last week, US Climate Envoy John Kerry said Beijing invited him to visit in the near term for talks on averting a global climate change crisis.

--With assistance from Lucille Liu.

(Updates with statement from the US ambassador in the fifth paragraph.)

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The X-37B space plane returns from a test flight. China's space plane is not pictured. Staff Sgt. Adam Shanks/US Space Force

China landed its mysterious reusable space plane after nine months in Earth's orbit.

Chinese state news agency Xinhua hailed the 276-day flight as a "success" and an "important breakthrough."

The space plane launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in August 2022.

China's mysterious reusable space plane landed on Monday, after 276 days in Earth's orbit.

The nine-month mission was the longest yet for the new space plane. It had flown to orbit once before, for just two days, according to Andrew Jones, a journalist who specializes in China's space program.

Though the recent flight was long, China's statements about the space plane have been short, with no details about the objectives of the flight, the specifications of the spacecraft, or the maneuvers it performed in orbit.

"The success of the experiment marks an important breakthrough in China's research on reusable spacecraft technologies, which will provide more convenient and affordable round-trip methods for the peaceful use of space in the future," Chinese state news agency Xinhua said in a brief announcement on Monday.

The space plane's maker, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. (CASC), reshared the Xinhua statement on the social media platform Weixin.

Xinhua reported that the "experimental" spacecraft touched down at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. However, orbital tracking data and satellite imagery suggest that the landing occurred at the Lop Nur military base in the neighboring province of Xinjiang, to the west, Jones reported.

A Long March-4C rocket blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua via Getty Images

Reusable space planes are nothing new. NASA's Space Shuttles are perhaps the most famous example. More recently, billionaire Richard Branson flew to orbit aboard a Virgin Galactic space plane.

In the absence of photos or details from China, multiple news outlets have suggested that the Chinese space plane may resemble the X-37B space plane developed by Boeing for the US military.

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That vehicle has flown six times, with its longest mission lasting nearly three years to test new hardware and run NASA experiments.

The X-37B space plane returns from its sixth flight. Staff Sgt. Adam Shanks/US Space Force

The Chinese space plane took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in August 2022 and in October mysteriously ejected something into orbit, according to Space.com.

Overall, China has been ramping up its space presence over the last decade, with a series of moon missions, its own space station in Earth's orbit, and a landmark Mars mission that featured an orbiter, a lander, and a rover  the first-ever Martian trifecta.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas finance ministry postponed a meeting scheduled for Wednesday between German Finance Minister Christian Lindner and his counterpart in the government in Beijing.

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Nadine Kalwey, a spokeswoman for Lindners ministry, said the talks with Liu Kun had been postponed for scheduling reasons and China had offered an alternative date at short notice.

This was not possible for logistical reasons, Kalwey said at the regular government news conference in Berlin. The meeting will be held at a later date, she added. There was no immediate comment from the Chinese government.

Lindner had planned to stop in Beijing to lay some of the groundwork for next months Chinese-German government consultations, before heading to the May 11-13 meeting of Group of Seven finance ministers and central bank governors in Niigata, Japan.

The German finance minister is also the chairman of the Free Democrats, one of the three parties in Chancellor Olaf Scholzs ruling coalition along with the Social Democrats and Greens.

China reacted angrily to a visit to Taiwan in March by Lindners FDP party colleague, Education and Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger, calling it an egregious act and accusing the government in Berlin of meddling in Chinas domestic affairs.

Reinhard Buetikofer, a Greens member of the European Parliament, said the Chinese postponement was an affront that doesnt only concern the FDP.

The right reaction from Berlin would be for one minister each from the SPD and the Greens to fly to Taiwan soon, Buetikofer, who chairs the parliaments delegation for relations with China, said in a tweet. We will not let Beijing dictate our China and Taiwan policy.

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In March 2021, Buetikofer was one of 10 individuals in the EU sanctioned by China, which said they severely harm Chinas sovereignty and interests and maliciously spread lies and disinformation.

China described the measures as a response to penalties imposed by the EU on a Chinese entity and individuals accused of human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

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(Bloomberg) -- China has launched a nationwide anti-espionage crackdown on consulting firms, according to state media, accusing one global company of leaking state secrets and having ties with foreign intelligence agencies.

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On orders from Chinas central government, authorities carried out synchronized operations in cities including the financial powerhouses of Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Suzhou, a provincial TV channel in Jiangsu province reported Monday night. The state broadcaster didnt say where it got the information or provide a timeframe for the raids.

State security officials visited the Suzhou branch of Capvision, a consulting firm with headquarters in New York and Shanghai, the broadcaster said. Capvision employees in the city that neighbors Shanghai were questioned and some items were searched and seized, according to the report, which didnt identify whether other firms were also targeted.

Security officials have found Capvision accepted consulting projects from overseas companies with close ties to foreign governments, military and intelligence agencies, according to a Tuesday report shared by the official WeChat account of the Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, the Communist Partys top legal body.

Capvision said in a statement posted to its WeChat account on Monday evening that it will resolutely stick to national-security policies and take the lead to guide the healthy development of the consulting industry.

Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin called the probe normal law enforcement actions designed to develop a well-regulated sector, at a regular briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.

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Beijing has taken several steps in recent months to tighten foreign access to sensitive information amid growing tensions with the US, despite Premier Li Qiangs recent vow to establish a broad space for foreign companies in China. The government last month passed a vague new counter-espionage law that expanded the list of activities that could be considered spying, intensifying the risks for foreign firms.

US consultancies  often used by overseas investors and multinational companies to conduct due diligence and research in China  are particularly in the spotlight. In recent weeks, authorities have questioned staff at the China offices of US consultancy Bain & Company and targeted New York-based due-diligence enterprise Mintz Group.

Foreign companies need to assess whether the work theyre doing in China might be viewed as supporting a hostile agenda, said Gabriel Wildau, managing director at advisory firm Teneo Holdings LLC in New York. Information that on its face doesnt appear sensitive or relevant to national security might be viewed as such if its used in the context of providing advice in service of an anti-China or pro-decoupling agenda.

Its not clear where the red lines are, so any work that sits in a gray area should probably be performed outside China, Wildau added. My sense from the recent incidents is that Chinese staff and long-term expatriates are at greater risk than visiting executives, he said.

State Secrets

Chinese authorities have recently found that overseas institutions with complex backgrounds have relied on domestic consulting companies to steal state secrets, according to the Tuesday report shared by the Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission.

The report cited a police officer from Shanghais national security bureau as saying Capvision also accepted consulting projects in sensitive fields such as national defense and cutting-edge technology. This compelled its staff members to call military enterprises and sensitive research units for information  both areas where Washington has imposed trade restrictions on China in recent months.

In that environment, Beijing has pushed to curtail access by overseas firms to Chinese data sources, in part, in response to a series of reports written by US research institutions that have reinforced Washingtons hard line on China, the Wall Street Journal reported this week, citing people with knowledge of the matter.

Chinese services such as Wind Information Co. in recent months stopped providing detailed data on the nations companies to overseas clients. The Cyberspace Administration of China, the countrys powerful internet overseer, also notified data providers in March to restrict overseas access to sensitive information such as patents and statistics, the Journal reported, citing people who have consulted with Chinese authorities.

Registry databases at Qichacha and TianYanCha  companies that provide similar services  have also been inaccessible for some time to users outside mainland China, according to several people familiar with the matter.

--With assistance from Li Liu, Jacob Gu, Lucille Liu, Jon Herskovitz, Rebecca Choong Wilkins and Sarah Zheng.

(Updates with Chinese foreign ministry comment in sixth paragraph.)

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By Angie Teo, Chayut Setboonsarng and Devjyot Ghoshal

BANGKOK (Reuters) -Shanghai resident Daniel Bian drank in the sweeping views over the Thai capital as he lay on a deckchair beside a swimming pool on the 19th floor of a luxury condominium.

"I feel alive. I feel free," said an excited Bian, dapper in tinted sunglasses, flat-topped navy blue hat and a wraparound tunic cinched at the waist, his hair hanging loosely to his shoulders. "This is my dream."

Cooped up in China for three years under some of the world's toughest curbs against COVID-19, Bian is among a flood of mainland Chinese hunting for property buys in the southeast Asian nation since Beijing opened its borders this year.

Many Chinese are eager to invest in a residence overseas, keen for a safety net in case of a similar disease outbreak, and also to hedge against economic risks at home.

Thailand was the most popular outbound destination for Chinese travelers during the May labour day holiday, data from website Trip.com showed, followed by Japan and South Korea.

And the Southeast Asian nation's good international schools and quality medical facilities are drawing increasing numbers keen to acquire a second home.

Thailand expects at least 5 million Chinese visitors this year, some set to buy property, although the figure is still a far cry from the era before COVID, when they made up nearly a third of the 40 million arrivals.

"There is definitely demand from China for properties in Thailand," said Mesak Chunharakchot, the president of the Thai Real Estate Association.

Topping buyers' lists are locations in major cities such as the capital, Bangkok, along with Chiang Mai in the mountainous north, the east coast beach resort of Pattaya and the northeastern region of Isan, he added.

"Chinese are buying houses, sending their children to international schools and having their parents come stay in Thailand to take care of the grandkids."

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Nearly 270,000 Chinese tourists visited Thailand in March, government data shows, a three-year high, though well below the figure of 985,227 in March 2019, before the pandemic took hold.

The share of Chinese students at Singapore International School Bangkok rose to 12% to 13% early this year, or 400 from a student body of 3,100 on four campuses, outstripping the figure of 6% during pre-pandemic 2019.

"In China, when things are closed - it's overnight, nobody can go out," the school's chief executive, Kelvin Koh, told Reuters. "This affected the behaviour of Chinese families."

Despite Thai rules that limit foreign ownership to just 49% of the units in any condominium development, prospective buyers are pouring in, bringing business to real estate agents who target Chinese buyers.

One such agent is Owen Zhu, who escorted Bian, 50, and his 70-year-old mother, fashionable in close-fitting white dress topped off with matching hat and veil, through viewings of three high-end apartments in Bangkok during a day-long property tour.

"It has changed a lot after the pandemic. Most of the Chinese choose to buy luxury apartments to live in," said Zhu.

Many clients who earlier bought for investment purposes have now zeroed in on property typically costing more than 2 million yuan ($290,000), he added.

"The budget can only buy a simple home in China's first-tier cities, and its location might not be good," Zhu said.

"But with that money they can buy a luxury apartment in the heart of Bangkok. Therefore some would sell one of the houses in China and buy a property here for retirement."

Bian, who organises cultural exchanges between China and other countries, also sees fewer constraints in Thailand.

"The freedom to enter or leave the country, to travel back and forth. As well as the freedom of society, and life. Freedom is very important," Bian said.

($1=6.9110 Chinese yuan renminbi)

(Additional reporting by Juarawee Kittisilpa and Chayut Setboonsarng in Bangkok and Chen Lin in Singapore; Writing by Anne Marie Rantree, Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
By Laurie Chen

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's hawkish state media tabloid, the Global Times, criticised on Monday a letter of protest by South Korea's embassy in Beijing, the latest public spat amid worsening ties between the Asian neighbours.

South Korea's recent diplomatic push towards Japan and the U.S. would "induce and aggravate the ... collapse of the situation in northeast Asia" the paper said, a day after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's landmark visit to Seoul.

The editorial comment followed a letter published by the embassy on its website on Friday that "expressed strong regret over a series of unreasonable slanderous articles" by the paper.

The articles used "sensational, provocative and inappropriate vocabulary to denigrate not only our leader but also the Korean government's foreign policy," the embassy added.

In turn, the Global Times criticised the embassy's "brutal interference in (its) independent reporting".

Foreign embassies in China rarely offer public criticism of reporting by Chinese state media.

South Korea's embassy in China did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

China's foreign ministry distanced itself from the state-affiliated tabloid at a daily briefing on Monday.

"The relevant media viewpoint does not represent the position of the Chinese government, but reflects current Chinese public opinion," said its spokesperson, Wang Wenbin.

"It is crucial to manage the original cause in order to avoid negative public opinion."

Known for its nationalist rhetoric, the Global Times has repeatedly attacked South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for "blindly following the U.S." after his visit there late last month.

It has accused Seoul of bringing further tension to the Korean peninsula by building security ties with Japan and the United States.

Sunday's visit by Kishida, the first by a Japanese leader in 12 years, is a sign of warming relations as both U.S. allies look to close a chapter on historical disputes that have dogged relations for decades.

In a similar incident last December, China's ambassador in South Korea criticised Korean media for stoking anti-China sentiment.

(Reporting by Laurie Chen in Beijing; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
Chris Pratt responded to criticism of his Christian faith by quoting a Bible verse and comparing himself to Jesus Christ.

During a special New York screening of his newest movie, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3, the 43-year-old was asked if he felt attacked over his religious beliefs.

Thats the way it is, nothing new, 2,000 years ago they hated him [Jesus], too, Pratt told Page Six.

If I was of this world, they would love me just like that but as it is, Ive chosen out of this world. Thats John 15:18 through 20, he added.

Pratt has faced backlash after he was believed to belong to Hillsong Church, an allegedly anti-LGBT+ megachurch.

Although, in 2022, he addressed rumours, saying hed never actually been to the controversial Los Angeles establishment.

Several high-profile celebrities, including Kendall and Kylie Jenner and Justin Bieber, are said to have attended Hillsong services.

Chris Pratt in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 ( MARVEL 2022)

Pratts final film of the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy has been released in cinemas on 5 May.

Since its debut, some of its disturbing content has left fans questioning the films age rating.

Mild spoilers follow for Guardians of the Galaxy...

It was given a 12A age rating in the UK and a PG-13 rating in the US, which permits children to see it in cinemas.

However, the movie features several scenes of supernatural animal abuse, with CGI-rendered animals given disfiguring mutations, and grotesque mechanical appendages.

Another sequence sees the Guardians visit the Orgosphere, an interstellar mass made entirely of fleshy organic matter.

Several viewers called out the dark and gory content on social media, with many suggesting the film should have been given a higher age rating.

The Independents film critic Clarisse Loughrey awarded it four stars, arguing that it was the best MCU entry in years.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 is out in cinemas now.
A new lawsuit Christian Louboutin filed last week accuses Vinci Leather of infringing upon the luxury labels famous shoe designs.

The French footwear makers 27-page complaint filed with the U.S. Southern District Court of New York claims the three-store fashion brand which also sells online rips off Louboutins distinctive red sole. It also claims Vinci knocks off its shark-teeth-like outsole design called Loubishark and sneakers with spikes on the toe box and heels.

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Christian Louboutins Loubishark shoe.

Spikes have become a mainstay of the Christian Louboutin shoe brand, and have adorned the feet of celebrities such as Elton John and Idris Elba, according to the complaint. The overall appearance and particular combination of elements of the Spiked Sneakers make them distinctive, consisting of footwear articles wherein conically shaped spikes are applied to the toe bed covering substantially the entire toe bed area, with the spikes positioned in rows and columns forming a substantially regularly spaced spike pattern.

Examples of shoe designs Christian Louboutin says infringe upon its Loubishark trade dress mark.

Christian Louboutin is suing on five counts, led by federal trademark infringement, federal trade dress infringement, unfair competition, both federally and under New York common law, violation of state Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act and federal design patent infringement.

Christian Louboutins legal counsel claims that Vinci Leather did not respond to requests issued in October 2022, but removed specifically noted itemsincluding the Musumusu, Zibo, and Efes shoes believed to be the trademark offendersoff the shelves.

Vinci Leather continued to violate Christian Louboutins trademark, this time co-opting its most valued red-soled design with its Musumusu, Ege and Maple styles, according to the complaint. A new cease-and-desist letter again went unanswered but resulted in the Ege and Maple shoes being removed from Vincis website and storefronts in Virginia and Maryland, according to the plaintiff.

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Christian Louboutin Spike Sneakers

On Dec. 15, the French firm realized Vinci had started selling offending items on its website again.

By virtue of Defendants use of an essentially identical design, potential purchasers will assume, incorrectly, that the Infringing Shoes are Plaintiffs, the complaint reads.

Christian Louboutin has successfully defended its red sole patent in the past. The Court Justice of the European Union decided that Louboutins 2010 patent did indeed cover the color of the sole in a ruling against Dutch shoe-seller Van Haren. The 2018 decision was held up on appeal by a District Court ruling in The Hague eight months later, ruling against Van Haren, which had argued that Louboutins patent applied to the shape of the sole, and not the color.

The Vinci Leather Efes spiked sneaker, at left, compared with Christian Louboutins Louis Junior Spikes.

In 2021, Christian Louboutin went after Amazon, claiming some of its vendors infringe on the red sole trademark only to see the CJEU rule that a seller like the e-commerce titan cannot be held directly liable for third-party sales on its marketplace.

Vinci Leather has three retail store locations in Washington, D.C. metro area, including two Virginia shops in Pentagon City Mall and Tysons Corner Center, and one at Bethesdas Westfield Montgomery Mall in Maryland. It sells mens and womens footwear, including boots, sandals, heels and sneakers, as well as leather belts and jackets and womens handbags.

French shoemaker Christian Louboutin says the Musumusu shoes sold by Maryland/Virginia-based retailer Vinci Leather infringe upon their Red Sole trademark, made famous in Sex and the City and elsewhere

Vinci Leather did not immediately respond to Sourcing Journal requests for comment.

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On January 27, a gunman entered Azerbaijans embassy in the Iranian capital, killing a security officer. This violent incident appears to have taken place following numerous requests made by Azerbaijani diplomats to their Iranian colleagues to strengthen the security measures around the South Caucasian countrys embassy in Tehran. This is an unprecedented act of violence, comparable only to the incident in the summer of 2001 when an Iranian warship and fighter aircraft threatened a British Petroleum-navigated Azerbaijani vessel exploring the oil reserves of an area in the south-western Caspian contested by Iran. The event is regarded by some observers as a turning point in AzerbaijaniIranian relations, and has been followed by a diplomatic spat between the two countries.

BACKGROUND: Iranian-Azerbaijani relations have been notoriously complicated since Azerbaijan gained independence in 1991-1992. There are two predominant reasons for this: the self-identifying Turcophone Azeri population in northwestern Iran, directly on the border with Azerbaijan; and clashes between Irans and Azerbaijans foreign policy objectives, largely centered around delimitation of the Caspian Sea and Bakus exploitation of its oil and natural gas-rich national sector of the sea.

The Islamic Republic has long been concerned over prospective irredentism among Irans Azeri minority. This is not an insignificant minority; there are more Azeris in Iran than the total population of Azerbaijan, and Iranian Azeris form this multiethnic nations largest ethnic minority. Since the 1990s, Irans Azeri minority has grown increasingly aware and proud of its identity. However, with the exception of a small minority, secessionism has not gained much traction in Irans northwest.

Yet a recent statement by Azerbaijans president Ilham Aliyev, accompanied by similar statements from Azerbaijani officials, has led many in Iran to argue that Baku is returning to the rhetoric of the early 1990s. In November 2022, Aliyev specifically stated that we had to conduct military exercises on the Iranian border to show that we are not afraid of them. We will do our best to protect the secular lifestyle of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis around the world, including Azerbaijanis in Iran. They are part of our people. These statements, along with Bakus increasingly bold policies following its victory in the 2020 war, Azerbaijans increased importance as an energy exporter following the Western-imposed sanctions on Russia, and Bakus ongoing collaboration with Israel have all made Iran uneasy as to Bakus possible engagement with Irans Azeri minority.

Bakus victory in the Armenian-Azerbaijani war over Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020 provided Azerbaijan with significant momentum. The blockade of the Lachin corridor despite the ceasefire is indicative of Azerbaijans enlarged room for maneuver in the South Caucasus. Iran has been caught off guard by Bakus military and political successes. Many in Tehran appear to view this development as a critical disruption to the balance of power in the South Caucasus, which has now come to favor Baku. The war in Ukraine, diverting Russian resources from the South Caucasus, has also created a power vacuum that is benefiting Baku, aided by its close partner Turkey. The recent rapprochement between Armenia and Iran is part of a strategy to counter this. In the decades following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and being aware of its limited influence in the South Caucasus, Tehran largely relied on Moscow to keep Baku in check. As this crucial alignment is becoming obsolete, Iran now perceives the need to play a more assertive role in the South Caucasus in general and vis-a-vis Baku in particular.

While it is difficult to establish the reason behind the attack against the embassy, the laxity displayed by Iranian authorities in terms of defending the object could be interpreted as a warning signal toward Azerbaijani authorities. The attack was likely instigated by anti-Azerbaijani sentiments that have gained momentum in Iran, with an individual acting on his own.

IMPLICATIONS: Regardless of who carried it out and why, and whether or not it was directly sanctioned by Iranian authorities, the attack represents an almost unprecedented rise in tensions between Azerbaijan and Iran. Yet it is highly unlikely that this kind of attack or similar incidents will become regular occurrences. The elites and leaderships in Baku and Tehran are both pragmatic and seek to avoid escalation.

However, the Azerbaijani regime will likely utilize the attack in its strategic communication, in order to reinforce international and domestic support. This is especially important for Azerbaijan given its central foreign policy objective of assuming a key position as an energy supplier to Europe. Given Irans hostility towards the EU, the U.S. and other associated powers, this is where Azerbaijan will be looking for international backing against its large neighbor.

Iran remains a powerful force in the region, however, as Baku and Ankara fill the void in the South Caucasus that Russia is leaving behind, Iran is left with Armenia as its key regional partner. While Iran has little to gain from open confrontation with Azerbaijan, the implied message of the failure to stop the embassy attack is that the wider Azerbaijani position must respect Irans interests and take Tehrans concerns over contested issues seriously.

Nevertheless, escalation could also emerge as an unwanted consequence of the heightened tensions between the two states. The recent rather provocative statements from Baku likely serve to reinforce Irans preexisting fears regarding potentially irredentist minorities, particularly in northwestern Iran. While Iran has many minorities, of greatest importance to regime stability are Azeris, Turkmens and Kurds.

The Kurds are in a latent rebellion while the Azeris and Turkmens have remained relatively pacified. While Turkmenistan neither has the will, nor the position to fuel irredentist sentiments among Irans Turkmen population, Iranian authorities remain suspicious regarding potential Azerbaijani designs vis-a-vis its kin in Iran. Adding to this are the irredentist actions of Azerbaijani officials up to and including Aliyev  from the President declaring support for the rights of Iranian Azeris, to lower officials making outrageous claims on Iranian land, not just including South Azerbaijan but land all the way to Tehran itself.

Yet Iran also has several reasons to avoid taking a hard line on the issue at present. The country is already going through civil unrest, although not irredentist in nature. It is also suffering considerable economic damage due to international sanctions, while Baku enjoys considerable support from Ankara. This support is unlikely to end  both major candidates in Turkeys May 14 elections have expressed support for Azerbaijan. Furthermore, Israel, Irans main enemy in the region, has maintained a level of support for Azerbaijan throughout the recent tumultuous years in the countrys domestic politics.

CONCLUSIONS: While a military escalation between Azerbaijan and Iran is unlikely, the fact that Iran, whether directly or indirectly, allowed the attack to happen, and the manner in which it is currently being investigated, suggest that the episode is utilized as a warning to Azerbaijan, also indicating that more dramatic measures are possible if required.

Baku is strongly supported by two other regional powers and this is unlikely to change in the current circumstances. This support, however, could also serve to delimit escalation. Ankara is preoccupied with its elections and Israel prefers to keep its maneuvering against Iran covert and informal. This, coupled with the fact that Baku is unlikely to emerge victorious from a military confrontation, could play into Iranian opportunism and Azerbaijani fears.

However, in reality Tehran is in no position to escalate given internal unrest in Iran, its ongoing economic crisis, and Russias gradual withdrawal from the South Caucasus following its costly invasion of Ukraine. Irans pursuit of its foreign policy objectives have caused it to overreach  given the choice between strengthening a diminishing position in the South Caucasus and pressing forward with foreign policy successes in the MENA region, it is unlikely that Iran would choose the former.

Alexander Yeo is a PhD candidate at the University of Glasgow. Emil A. Souleimanov is a professor at Charles University.
Nine individuals, including a Clay County man, have been indicted with a drug trafficking conspiracy and other charges as a result of a joint investigation named Operation Ice Man.

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According to the indictment and court documents, since early 2022, the Federal Burea of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Flagler County Sheriffs Office, the Volusia County Sheriffs Office, the DeLand Police Department and the Daytona Police Department have been involved in investigating a multi-state drug trafficking organization (DTO).

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The DTO initially purchased illegal narcotics from Mexico. It then transported methamphetamine and cocaine from Phoenix and Los Angeles to central Florida.

During the investigation, federal agents and task force officers identified several members of the conspiracy and how they shipped methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico into the United States, ending up in central Florida. The primary way of transporting illegal drugs was by using commercial trucks.

Jimmie Lee Bizzell, 53, Green Cove Springs, was one of the commercial truck drivers tasked with transporting the drugs from Phoenix to Florida.

A mug shot of Jimmie Lee Bizzell in 2016.

On Oct., 31, 2022, search warrants executed in six Florida locations resulted in 44.5 kilograms of methamphetamine and 2.7 kilograms of cocaine being seized. In addition, nine guns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were seized from one of the defendants homes.

Read: 368 arrested in Southern California task force human trafficking operation

Luis Miguel Hernandez, 36, Phoenix, and Saul Sandoval, 39, Phoenix, were found to be the sources of the methamphetamine and cocaine from Phoenix and Los Angeles. Agents learned that Sandoval and Hernandez had brokered deals with co-conspirators in Mexico who were sending drugs across the border for Sandoval and Hernandez to sell.

Law enforcement also discovered that Sandoval had multiple illegal firearms at his home. These included fully automatic firearms, short-barrel firearms and auto switches designed to be installed on Glock handguns to render them fully automatic.

Story continues

Authorities believe that since 2021, Sandoval and Hernandez sold more than 300 kilograms of drugs that were shipped to central Florida.

On Apr. 25, 2023, Sandoval was arrested in Phoenix and a search warrant was executed at his home. Inside his home, agents located 1,114 grams of fentanyl pills, 18 firearms, 4 firearm suppressors and more than $5,000 in cash. Sandoval was detained and is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transport to the Middle District of Flordia for further proceedings.

Hernandez was arrested in Los Angeles on the same day as Sandoval. He was in the middle of conducting a new drug trafficking deal for approximately 36 kilograms of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest. Hernandez is also waiting transport to the Middle District of Florida.

Read: 4 arrested, 10 guns seized in Operation Social Dilemma, Jacksonville sheriff says

According to the Department of Justice, This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.

Bizzell faces a possible mandatory sentence of 10 years up to life in prison. Both Hernandez and Sandoval also face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in a federal prison.

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An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

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Founder of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society, Clayborn Benson, reviews photos in his office.

Clayborn Benson has used his retirement savings to personally fund efforts at the institution he founded, the Wisconsin Black Historical Society. He says he can no longer meet the demands of the historical society without financial help from the statehouse.

Among the hundreds of items stripped from Gov. Tony Evers budget proposal last week was funding for the historical society and museum located on Milwaukees north side.

Benson says he needs $1 million a year from the state, or he worries about the continued success of the historical society.

Evers proposed funding for the historical society as part of budget proposal, but Republican lawmakers removed the funding, along with the hundreds of other items.

The work the historical society does for the community, libraries, schools, among other institutions is likely invaluable, state Rep. Evan Goyke said.

Documenting Black history across the state, gathering African American artifacts, educating the public from the earliest populations of Black people in the state to the Great Migration and providing a community gathering space, are just some of the value of the historical society.

Goyke, along with Reps. Kalan Haywood and Darrin Madison, and Sen. LaTonya Johnson represent much of the area surrounding the historical society, located at 2620 W. Center St. The Democratic lawmakers had a public hearing at the historical society last weekend to present Evers budget proposal. All of them, except Madison, sit on at the Joint Finance Committee.

(Left) Rep. Kalan Haywood and (right) Sen. LaTonya Johnson speak at the listening session for the 2023-2025 Wisconsin State Budget at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum on Saturday April 29, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wis. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The meeting was largely attended by students, staff, and parents connected to charter schools, advocating for more school choice options for Milwaukees youth. Although many both agree and disagree with the presenters, the opportunity to speak with their representatives was all made possible by utilizing the physical space of the historical society.

Without the state funding, Benson fears the historical society will not be able to provide opportunities such as the public hearing.

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People are asking us to do more, utilize the facility more," Benson said. "It is difficult to satisfy their requests with limited staff."

Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee still could decide whether to reinstate partial funding for some items, including the historical society, regardless of having stripped much of Evers' budget. Republicans approved state funding for the historical society in the past, despite one Republican leader calling for an end to it. It remains unclear when or if they could restore the funds.

Clayborn Benson, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum, speaks with 6-year-old Alayah Tyson, 10-year-old Andreyis Tyson, and Henry Tyson of Milwaukee about the presence and contributions of African Americans particularly in Wisconsin's workforce on Saturday April 29, 2023 at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum in Milwaukee, Wis. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

A staffer of a Republican committee member noted the historical society has been receiving roughly $85,000 annually from the state, significantly less than $1 million it says it needs to operate.

State funding for the historical society also has not increased significantly in years.

Thats what weve been receiving. But weve grown, its just the expectation of the community, in terms of what they want from us, expect from us, far exceeded and changed over the course of the years, Benson said.

Benson founded the historical society in 1987 and is no stranger to financial strain

Benson is a photojournalist by practice, having worked for WTMJ-TV for nearly 40 years. While working as a cameraman for TMJ4, he founded the historical society in 1987 and the next year moved into its current set of two buildings on Center Street. One of the buildings is over 130 years old and was donated to the historical society from the City of Milwaukee.

The Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum contains many exhibits from ancient Egyptian civilization to early African American settlers in rural Wisconsin on Saturday April 29, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wis. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Benson said the buildings need some work.

We just put on a new roof, but were still having leaks, Benson said. The brick wall is peeling. Thats a problem. We need a new floor in. We have foundation on the east side of wall where there is water coming in.  These buildings need constant maintenance.

It wasnt until about three years ago when the historical society began to feel a bit more comfortable financially. We would be down to $100 at the end of the cycle, Benson said. We would be bled dry. We didnt have money to pay utility bills, to pay staff, any of the things thats necessary.

The historical society receives funding from organizations and nonprofits, including the Greater Milwaukee Foundation and Northwestern Mutual, in addition to public funds.

Benson says he needs more staff to serve to the public

Benson wants to use the state funds to hire more staff. He said the historical society needs an education specialist, archivist, grant writer, and facilities manager.

Clayborn Benson, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum, poses for a portrait on Saturday April 29, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wis. Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Benson said the historical society will receive multiple calls every day asking for a request.

Theyre not normally Black people, theyre white people making artifacts or giving things they have encountered with African Americans over the course of the years, to donate, to make historical, Benson said, adding he doesnt have adequate staffing to fulfill the requests.

The historical society has programming that requires staff, including movies, lectures, and discussions. Some of the programming is catered to youth, some is catered to pregnant women and new moms. The institution hosts birthday parties, weddings, and graduation events. All of this requires staffing and funding, Benson said.

Clayborn Benson takes part in the introduces children to the audience during a Kwanzaa celebration Monday, December 26, 2022 at the Wisconsin Black Historical Society, 2620 W. Center St. in Milwaukee, Wis. Kwanzaa, a weeklong cultural celebration honoring African American culture and African heritage, begins on December 26 and ends January 1. The holiday occurs over the same seven days each year. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies at California State University in Long Beach The celebration of Kwanzaa is about embracing 7 ethical principles including unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

Goyke says if investments are being made in Madison, Milwaukee museums so should the Black Historical Society

The Legislature in the last three years has secured funding for two new museums in Wisconsin's biggest two cities, and Goyke believes the Black historical society needs attention.

The Wisconsin Historical Society has a new museum set to open in 2026 in Madison. The state funded $70 million for the project, but not before requiring the museum to raise at least $30 million in private funds. The new Milwaukee Public Museum, also set to open in 2026 in downtown, was in part funded by the state to the tune of $40 million.

State Rep. Evan Goyke speaks at a budget public hearing at the Wisconsin Black History Society and Museum on April 29, 2023.

"At a time when we are making huge investments in a new museum in Madison, an investment I support," Goyke said.

"We're (also) investing 10s and 10s of millions of dollars in the museum of natural history that is going to be built downtown. And I think it's appropriate as we have a debate about a public investment in history and museums that we not forget the Black Historical Society and the work that they do and the contribution that they make, and the expanded contribution they could make if we invested in them more heavily."

Contact Drake Bentley at (414) 391-5647 or DBentley1@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DrakeBentleyMJS.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Black Historical Society request $1 million from state
By Luc Cohen and Jack Queen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Donald Trump's absence from a trial where writer E. Jean Carroll accuses him of rape and defamation shows that "he did it," a lawyer for Carroll said on Monday, while Trump's lawyer told jurors the case was "outrageous."

"He never looked you in the eye and denied raping Ms. Carroll," lawyer Mike Ferrara told jurors as the civil trial in Manhattan federal court neared the end of an eighth day. "You should draw the conclusion that that's because he did it."

The six-man, three-woman jury was expected to begin deliberating on Tuesday.

Carroll, 79, sued Trump, 76, alleging he raped her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in 1995 or 1996 and then defamed her by denying it happened in an October 2022 post on Trump's Truth Social platform.

In that post, he called her claims a "complete con job" and "a Hoax and a lie."

The former Elle magazine advice columnist is seeking unspecified monetary damages.

Trump, who served as president from 2017 to 2021 and is the front-runner for the Republican U.S. presidential nomination in 2024, waived his right to testify at trial and opted not to present a defense, gambling that jurors will find that Carroll failed to make a persuasive case.

He told reporters in Ireland last week that he would "probably" attend, but did not show up.

Trump has accused Carroll of making up the story to drive sales of a 2019 memoir in which she made her claims public. In a video deposition played for the jury on May 3, Trump denied raping Carroll.

"It's the most ridiculous, disgusting story," Trump said in the video. "It's just made up."

In his closing argument on Monday, Trump's lawyer Joseph Tacopina said Carroll's inability to recall the date of the alleged incident made it impossible for Trump to defend himself by citing an alibi, and called the case an "affront to justice."

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"This is an absolutely outrageous case," Tacopina said.

"The facts in evidence make plain here that E. Jean Carroll's story is not worthy of your belief, not even close," he said.

TRUMP'S 2005 'GRAB 'EM' VIDEO FEATURES AT TRIAL

Earlier on Monday, Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kaplan said a 2005 "Access Hollywood" video in which Trump says women let him "grab 'em by the pussy" bolstered the accounts of Carroll and other women who have accused Trump of sexual assault.

"He admitted on video to doing exactly the kinds of things that have brought us here to this courtroom," Kaplan said.

During three days of testimony and cross-examination, Carroll said that during the attack Trump slammed her against the wall, put his fingers into her vagina and then inserted his penis.

Two of Carroll's longtime friends testified that she told them about the attack shortly after it occurred and said they believed her. Jurors also heard from two other women who said Trump sexually assaulted them in separate incidents decades ago. Trump denies those claims as well.

Kaplan did not specify the amount of money jurors should award Carroll in compensatory and punitive damages. She said Carroll had been unable to sustain a romantic relationship since the alleged rape, and that Trump's public criticism had harmed her client's reputation.

"For E. Jean Carroll, this lawsuit is not about the money," Kaplan said. "This lawsuit is about getting her name back."

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Editing by Will Dunham, Noeleen Walder and Howard Goller)
NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump should be held accountable for sexually attacking an advice columnist in 1996 because even a former president is not above the law, a lawyer for the columnist told a jury Monday in closing arguments in the lawsuit that accuses Trump of rape.

A lawyer for Trump responded by calling the accuser's account unbelievable and "outrageous."

Once the final arguments were complete, the judge sent the jury home with instructions to return Tuesday to hear about an hour of instructions before beginning deliberations. Jurors will be asked to decide whether Trump committed battery and defamed writer E. Jean Carroll and whether damages should be awarded.

In recapping Carroll's case, attorney Roberta Kaplan showed jurors video clips of Trump from his October deposition and replayed the Access Hollywood video from 2005 in which Trump said into a hot mic that celebrities can grab women's genitals without asking.

Kaplan recalled Trump's comment that stars like him can get away with sexually assaulting women.

Thats who Donald Trump is. That is how he thinks. And thats what he does, Kaplan said. He thinks he can get away with it here.

Kaplan used Trump's words to support Carroll's claims that Trump raped her in early spring 1996 in the dressing room of Bergdorf Goodman, a luxury department store in Manhattan across the street from Trump Tower.

Trump's attorney, Joe Tacopina, attacked the allegations as absurd, saying they were an affront to justice and minimized real rape victims.

He agreed with Kaplan that no one is above the law, but he warned that no one's below it either.

Tacopina told jurors they won't have to let her profit to the tune of millions of dollars because they will see that it is impossible to believe the "unbelievable."

This is an absolutely outrageous case, he said, arguing that Carroll sued to raise her status and for political reasons.

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He said even Carroll had testified that it was an astonishing coincidence that a Law and Order offshoot aired an episode in 2012 in which a woman is raped in the dressing room of a Bergdorf Goodman.

What is the likelihood of that? Tacopina asked. One in 20 billion? One in 10 billion?

Tacopina said the claims were too absurd to call his client as a witness, noting that Carroll expected jurors to believe Trump would risk everything to attack a woman in a busy department store even though she couldn't remember exactly when the assault happened.

What could I have asked Donald Trump? Where were you on some unknown date, 27 or 28 years ago? he said.

In a rebuttal argument, Carroll attorney Mike Ferrara mocked Trump's decision to skip the trial, saying jurors could use his absence to conclude that Trump committed the attack because Trump never looked you in the eye and denied it.

Kaplan told jurors that it wasn't a he said, she said case but rather one in which jurors should weigh what 11 witnesses, including Carroll, said versus what they heard from Trump in his video deposition.

He didn't even bother to show up here in person, Kaplan said, referring to Trump's absence from the proceedings in federal court. She told jurors that much of what he said in his deposition and in public statements actually supports our side of the case.

In a very real sense, Donald Trump is a witness against himself, she said. He knows what he did. He knows that he sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll.

Kaplan recounted the testimony of two women who say they too were attacked sexually by Trump.

Jessica Leeds, 81, said he grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt on a 1979 airline flight. Natasha Stoynoff said he forcibly kissed her at his Florida mansion in 2005 as she worked on a story about his marriage for People magazine.

Trump has insisted in public statements and in the deposition that Carroll made up the claims to boost sales of a 2019 memoir. He has called Carroll mentally sick" and a disgrace.

Carroll, 79, who is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, testified for more than two days. Kaplan praised her testimony as credible.

It was consistent, and it was powerful, the lawyer said.

She contrasted that testimony with Trump's deposition, noting that a man who had derided Carroll as not his type was shown a photograph of Carroll from over three decades ago and twice misidentified her as his second wife, Marla Maples.

Carroll, a former cheerleader and Miss Indiana, was exactly Mr. Trumps type, Kaplan said. She is smart. She is funny. She is beautiful. And, most of all, she is courageous.

Carroll said she was leaving the Bergdorf Goodman store through a revolving door in spring 1996 when Trump was entering the store and stopped her to help him shop for a gift for a woman.

Carroll, a former Saturday Night Live writer, said they took escalators to the store's desolate sixth floor, where they teased each other about trying on a piece of see-through lingerie.

She said she entered a dressing room with Trump before the flirting turned violent, with Trump slamming her against a wall, pulling down her tights and raping her. She said she kneed him after an encounter that lasted several minutes and fled the store.

Carroll blames the encounter in part for never having another intimate relationship in her life.

Trump's public comments are the basis of Carrolls defamation claim. Kaplan labeled the comments as lies and said they ruined her client's reputation and forced an end to her 27-year employment as an Elle magazine advance columnist.

Kaplan urged jurors to find in favor of my brave client, E. Jean Carroll, but she put no number on the damages being sought.

Consider the evidence and pick a number you think is right, she said. This lawsuit is not about the money. This lawsuit is about getting her name back.
On the heels of Gov. Ron DeSantis signing a law that would ban most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy, a coalition is mobilizing an effort to put the question of abortion on Floridas 2024 ballot.

A group called Floridians Protecting Freedom is proposing a constitutional amendment to protect the right of a woman to have an abortion up to the point where the fetus could survive outside the womb.

No law shall prohibit, penalize, delay, or restrict abortion before viability or when necessary to protect the patients health, as determined by the patients healthcare provider, the proposed language reads. Viability is usually at about 24 weeks of pregnancy.

The coalition  which includes organizers from the ACLU of Florida, Florida Rising, Florida Planned Parenthood groups and Womens Voices of Southwest Florida  is hoping that voters will back the effort. They note that polls show that a majority of Floridians support safe and legal access to abortion.

This campaign will ensure that Floridians are able to make these personal medical decisions themselves without government interference, said Kara Gross, the legislative director at the ACLU of Florida.

Floridas Constitution includes a right to privacy, which the state Supreme Court has previously held protects abortion access. But the DeSantis administration is challenging that precedent as part of an ongoing lawsuit over Floridas current 15-week abortion ban. (Floridas new six-week abortion law would only go into effect if the state gets a favorable ruling in that case.)

Gross said the group is aiming for the 2024 ballot, instead of a later election date, because Floridas current abortion law is already affecting peoples rights.

To make it to the ballot, the group will need to gather about 892,000 petitions, representing at least half of Floridas congressional districts  meaning the petitions cant all come from concentrated Democratic areas. The language of the proposed constitutional amendment must also undergo judicial review to make sure that it includes only a single subject and would not mislead voters. The Florida Supreme Court has previously rejected ballot proposals over language.

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Once on the ballot, the amendment needs to be passed by at least 60% of the voters.

Gross said it will be a multimillion-dollar campaign, and that they have already begun an aggressive fundraising effort. She said the language of the amendment that they have worked on is so simple and so clear, that it would be difficult for courts to take any issue with it.

Shelly Tien, an abortion provider, shared stories at the news conference Monday about patients in Florida who have had to travel outside of the state for care or who had dangerous outcomes because they were denied care under the current 15-week ban.

Everyone should have the fundamental right to make these personal medical decisions that permanently impact the arc of their lives, with the support of their loved ones and within the privacy of the physician-patient relationship, Tien said.

Ballot initiatives have been used by left-leaning Florida groups to pass legislation that may have been blocked by the Republican-dominated Legislature. Floridas $15 minimum wage law and the restoration of voting rights for people with certain felony records both were passed through ballot initiatives.

But lawmakers have made it more difficult in recent years for proposals to get through the process. For instance, legislators changed it so petition gatherers are no longer paid based on the number of signatures but must be paid hourly or daily instead. Petition gatherers also need to register with the state.
Columbia State students (left to right) Jaeden Kennedy, Sasha Erickson, Lydia Knobloch and Hope Bone at the 2023 Tennessee Board of Regents Day on the Hill.

Columbia State Community College students recently participated in the Tennessee Board of Regents Day on the Hill with other TBR Student Government members and SkillsUSA Officers from across the state.

Jaeden Kennedy, Columbia State SGA president, attended the event for the second year in a row. Jaeden Kennedy, Lydia Knobloch, Sasha Erickson, Hope Bone, and Cayden Flickinger also attended.

It was great to be back on Capitol Hill spending the day with our elected officials, Kennedy said. I want to say a special thank you to Representative Jody Barrett of District 69 and Representative Sam Whitson of District 65 for their time and advice on running for office. I know for a fact these amazing gentlemen care deeply about our college students across the state and are committed to making Tennessee a better place for us all.

Columbia State students Hope Bone and Cayden Flickinger with Tennessee Representative Kip Capley at the 2023 Tennessee Board of Regents Day on the Hill.

The TBR Day on the Hill allows TBR institution Student Governments and SkillsUSA members to meet with state legislators and attend post-secondary education committee meetings.

Being able to attend TBR Day on the Hill was an experience that showed me firsthand how our state government operates, Knobloch said. I was able to meet representatives who showed their passion for the state of Tennessee and was also able to discuss ideas to better our state. Not only was I able to talk with representatives, but I was able to sit in on committee meetings which gave me a better understanding on the bill-making process. I am very grateful for this experience and encourage others to become more informed on how our government works!

During the day, the students could sit in on committee meetings and meet with house members.

Kennedy, Knobloch, and Erickson met with Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson, serving District 69, and Rep. Sam Whitson, R-Franklin, serving District 65. Bone and Flickinger met with Rep. Jake McCalmon, R-Franklin, serving District 63 and Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Culleoka, serving District 64.

Columbia State students Lydia Knobloch and Sasha Erickson at the 2023 Tennessee Board of Regents Day on the Hill.

Seeing democracy in action made me think how blessed I am to live in a free country where people can assemble, debate and, by majority rule, make decisions that shape the future of our state, Bone said. I am proud to live in the great state of Tennessee where our governor and majority of legislators are working to protect the values of Tennesseans.

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I think it was great to have the chance to do something that helped me see what I wanted to do with my life in the future, Flickinger said. Meeting new individuals and state representatives was wonderful as well.

Columbia State is a comprehensive community college serving southern Middle Tennessee dedicated to nurturing success and positively changing lives through teaching, learning, and service. Visit ColumbiaState.edu to learn more.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Columbia State students attend Tennessee Board of Regents Day on Hill
A Columbus police officer was given Narcan after possibly coming in contact with fentanyl while on the job Friday, according to officials.

Police say the officer responded to the scene of a crash on Airport Thruway and Whitesville Road Friday where the incident occurred. While searching and inventorying the car for it to be towed the officer opened a container to inspect it, according to the release.

Almost immediately afterwards the officer had dizziness, dry mouth, elevated heart rate, feeling hot, and heavy legs, officials say. Police say the officer called for EMS and received one dose of Narcan and transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional.

The officer is currently not in danger, according to police.

Police say the officer was wearing gloves while handling the substance and the substance will be sent off for testing.

Previous reporting by the Ledger-Enquirer has shown a rise in the overdose deaths in Muscogee County and several counties across Georgia over the past few years.

In an interview with the Ledger-Enquirer the DEA Special Agent in Charge Robert J. Murphy said, Its pretty safe to say most of the drugs seized up and down the coast have come through Atlanta at one point.

Murphy said cartels and other drug trafficking organizations are bringing fentanyl into Atlanta.

Theres no maybe about it, thats absolute. We have every major cartel operating. The two major ones were focused on right now are Sinaloa and CJNG (Cartel Jalisco New Generation), said Murphy.
Progress-Index guest columnist Michelle Murrills chats with retired Lt. Gen. Arthur Gregg following a news conference Thursday, April 27, 2023 at the newly designated Fort Gregg-Adams. The new name of the old Fort Lee honors Gregg and the late Lt. Col. Charity Adams, who Army officials called 'two trailblazers' advancing minorities in the armed services.

Change is never easy; some fight it and others merely complain about it. But there are times that change is not only inevitable but truly wanted and needed. Fort Lee, in Virginia, being renamed Fort Gregg-Adams is one of those times.

On April 27, 2023, I attended the Fort Gregg-Adams redesignation ceremony. I could not have been more proud or impressed with a ceremony than I was with this one. It really was beautiful. Coming from Alaska, I have not seen too much history in the making. But on that day, history was made.

I got to meet both Lieutenant General Arthur Gregg and the children of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams. It will always be one of the highlights of my life here in Petersburg, Virginia.

Major General Mark T. Simerly was the Commanding General of Fort Lee (now Fort Gregg-Adams) that was tasked with the changeover. He said that he was proud to be that person as he has always found it troubling that the fort was named for someone who fought against the U.S. military. After all, the last fort that was named for a living person, Fort Arnold, named after Benedict Arnold, was changed to Fort Clinton when Arnold defected to the British and was branded a traitor.

Michelle Murrills

Camp Lee, as it was originally called, was named for General Robert E. Lee in June of 1917. A time that Jim Crow laws were becoming the norm, segregation was the law of the land, and statues were being erected throughout The South as a form of intimidation; the Lost Cause ideals were going strong at that point.

Throughout World War I and II, Camp Lee was a major training center for troops on the East Coast.

In 1950 Camp Lee officially became Fort Lee. 1950 was also the year that Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Gregg moved to Petersburg to begin what was to become a 31-year relationship with Fort Lee, retiring as a Lieutenant General in 1981. Mr. Gregg told me that when he came to Fort Lee, the armed forces had already been desegregated. However, the implementation had just begun. He also said that he was very happy at Fort Lee and looked at it as home. Because of this, when his name was first bandied about, he was flattered to be included and then became very proud that his name was to be one-half of the new name of the Fort. His only worry was that since this is the first time in United State history that a fort was named for a living person, he would have to live up to the hype and mind his manners.

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Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams also started in the military during World War II. She was the commander of the 6888th, the Central Postal Directory in England during the war. Her unit handled almost 200,000 pieces of mail a day. When her battalion disbanded, it took three units of men just to replace her.

When asked, her children said that she would not have ever believed that her name was to be part of the renamed fort. They both said that it still had not sunk in for them either.

For those who live and work outside of Fort Gregg-Adams gates, the name change magnitude likely has not been completely processed, either. Many have publicly rebelled against it, proclaiming it is, was and always will be Fort Lee to them. And thats fine because we all know a core value of our American culture is the right to ones opinion.

But let us remember that a shiny new name is not going to drastically change the mission of Fort Lee/Gregg-Adams. Nor is it going to radicalize central Virginia into some kind of political hotbed where everything history-related will automatically be rejected in the name of progressivism. Soldiers still will go there to learn the skills they need to sustain the infrastructure of the United States armed services. They will be trained at a place named for two lions who forged their careers on that same subject of support that this generation of our nations defenders.

What the new name does reflect, however, is the inclusivity and diversity of the Army that we are so quick these days to thank for their service and support their endeavors. If we can support that, we should just as eagerly support the new name for which it stands.

Living in the city that was the very first municipality to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.s birthday as a municipal holiday, this redesignation just adds to the diverse history of the city of Petersburg. That is something of which we should all be proud.

Michelle Murrills (she/her/hers) is a resident of Petersburg and a frequent contributor to The Progress-Index.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Column: Changing post name should invoke sense of pride
A new Beacon database provides details on major job cuts or plant or office closings.

A new Akron Beacon Journal online database can provide details on upcoming job cuts and plant and office closings.

The database is based off of a 1988 law passed by Congress that is meant to give workers a 60-day heads up if they are going to be laid off or if the plant or office where they work is closed.

It's called a WARN Notice, which stands for Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act and it went into effect in February 1989.

In Ohio, filings are made with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

Our database includes information from across the nation or just in Ohio. You can check it out here.

Database: Who got Paycheck Protection Program loans during the pandemic

What does the WARN Notice require?

The law provides that workers who are laid off or terminated in certain circumstances of if plants or offices are closed must receive at least 60 days advance written notice of their job losses. It is meant to protect workers, their families and communities in the event of mass layoffs.

What companies are covered by the WARN Notice?

The act generally applies to employers with at least 100 workers that are laying off at least 50 workers at a single site of employment.

It does not apply to workers who will be laid off for six months or less.

The law does not apply to workers who are on strike or locked out in a labor dispute. It also does not apply to workers on temporary projects or to workers such as consultants or contract employees assigned to the business but actually work for and are paid by another employer.

It doesn't apply to workers who voluntarily leave a job, retire or fired for cause.

It also doesn't apply to government workers or the self employed.

Database: What is Summit County's current unemployment rate?

What is the purpose of the law?

The idea behind the WARN Notice is give workers time to prepare for new jobs. That includes obtaining information about where new jobs can be found or getting training so that they can get a new job.

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Cities and states also may be eligible for funding from the Department of Labor to provide these kinds of services. States also provide Rapid Response services when significant layoffs or plant closings occur to help workers get needed services as quickly as possible and to help employers manage the process of laying off their workers.

The Labor Department encourages employers to give their workers notice even when a notice isn't required and to work with state and local agencies to help their workers get the transition services they need.

Are there exceptions to the 60-day requirement?

Yes. If a company can't be expected to reasonably foresee the business faltering or if its actively seeking capital or business that could avoid the layoffs or the closing.

If a company provides a warning of less than 60 days, it must provide an explanation and give notice as soon as practical.

What is the Labor Department's role in investigating allegations of wrongdoing?

The role of the agency is limited to providing guidance and information about the act. It does not have any investigative or enforcement authority, and cannot issue advisory opinions on specific cases.

The guidance is not binding and does not replace the advice of an attorney.

If workers believe a WARN Act violation has been committed, they should consult legal counsel and consider whether to file a lawsuit in federal court.

A company that violates the law may be found liable for an amount equal to the amount of wages and benefits for each day of the period of violation, up to 60 days.

mawilliams@dispatch.com

@BizMarkWilliams

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: WARN Notice database can help you see if your company is cutting jobs
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP)  A far-right party led in the vote count Sunday night after Chileans cast ballots for a 50-member commission that is to draft a new coonstitution after voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed charter last year that was considered one of the worlds most progressive.

It was a major defeat for Chiles center-left president, Gabriel Boric, with the vote also widely viewed as a referendum on his government, which currently has an approval rating of around 30%.

With 91% of polling stations reporting, the Republican Party, led by far-right Jose Antonio Kast, who lost the presidential runoff to Boric in 2021, led with 35% of the vote. The Republican Party has long opposed changing the constitution that was imposed by the dictatorship of Gen. Augusto Pinochet.

A coalition of left-leaning parties allied with Boric, Unity for Chile was in second place with 28% of the vote. A center-right alliance, Safe Chile, was in third with 21%. Null or blank votes made up 21% of the total.

Preliminary calculations pointed to the Republican Party ending up with about 22 representatives on the constitutional council, compared to 17 for Unity for Chile and 11 for Safe Chile.

If the the two right-of-center groups, the Republicans and Safe Chile, unite it could leave Borics allies with very little room to influence the final text. The preliminary count suggested left-leaning coalitions would not reach the 21 seats necessary to veto proposals or force consensus on certain issues.

Sundays vote marked a key step in the effort to come up with a new proposal for a constitution after 62% of voters rejected the previous proposed charter in September. It had been the first in the world to be written by a convention split equally between male and female delegates.

Critics said the document was too long, lacked clarity and went too far in some of its measures, which included characterizing Chile as a plurinational state, establishing autonomous Indigenous territories, and prioritizing the environment and gender parity.

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Once installed, the commission's 50 members will not start from scratch, but rather work from a preliminary document drafted by 24 experts who were approved by Congress. The body's proposal is to be put before plebiscite in December.

The path to rewriting Chiles constitution began after violent student-led protests in 2019 that were sparked by a hike in public transportation prices but quickly expanded into broader demands for greater equality and more social protections.

Congress managed to get the protests under control by calling for a referendum on whether to draw up a new constitution, which almost 80% of voters agreed was needed.

Much of that enthusiasm appears to have vanished, though. Before Sundays vote, polls said there was broad disinterest in the constitutional process.

Luis Rodriguez, a 70-year-old retiree who cast a ballot Sunday, said: I decided to vote because its mandatory. ... I dont care about the result.

Another retiree, David Pino, 65, said he also voted out of obligation. Fines for those who do not vote can be as high as $230.
Elder Gerrit W. Gong, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, hugs Rabbi Samuel Spector during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Kol Ami synagogue in Salt Lake City on Sunday. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News

The 50th anniversary celebration for Congregation Kol Ami on Sunday was also a celebration of community and connection as Rabbi Samuel Spector thanked government leaders and the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their support of the small Jewish community in Salt Lake City.

Kol Ami is a unique Jewish congregation; it began when two different congregations joined forces  Congregation B'nai Israel, a congregation of reformed Jews, and Congregation Montefiore, which was a group of conservative Jews. The congregation, with about 350 families, is about one-fourth of Utah's Jewish population.

"Fifty years ago, our community decided to do something incredibly bold, something that hadn't been done, really anywhere in the country. And that was bring two different movements of Judaism together, to create one community  Kol Ami  which means all our people," Rabbi Spector said.

He said something like that would only happen in Utah, where people look out for each other and love each other despite differences. Rabbi Spector said friends, family and the community coming together has inspired people around the world.

Rabbi Spector said when he learned he would be moving from a predominately Jewish community in Los Angeles to Utah, where a very small portion of people are Jewish, he called a friend who was a rabbi to ask him what it was like to be a minority group. Initially, the other rabbi said it was hard dealing with antisemitism, but then when he heard Rabbi Spector was going to Utah, the rabbi said, "Oh, Latter-day Saints love you guys."

His experience has confirmed that, Rabbi Spector said, along with the experience of Jewish people since they arrived in Utah 150 years ago. He said members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came to Utah to escape persecution, which is similar to the background of many Jews.

"When we first came out here, we saw Latter-day Saints as our brothers and sisters, people who we shared a common narrative with, and so much in common," Rabbi Spector said.

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Rabbi Samuel Spector prepares to speak during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Kol Ami synagogue in Salt Lake City on Sunday. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News

He said Brigham Young gave them land for their first synagogue and put a stop to a boycott of Jewish businesses when one was organized. Rabbi Spector said the friendship between the two churches has been a gift to their community.

This support of the Jewish community from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was apparent at the celebration, as multiple leaders from the church attended, and Rabbi Spector said the church sponsored multiple tables.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong, of the church's Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said it was "a special honor and pleasure" to be there, and congratulated the congregation on their anniversary.

He said the church has had a friendship with Jewish congregations in Utah for far longer than 50 years, and said Joseph Smith expressed the hope that Jerusalem would be redeemed and the children of Judah would begin to return to the land given to Abraham.

"Your dedication to Jewish education, ritual and service to others is an inspiration to all. As your Latter-day Saint neighbors, we appreciate your eagerness to link arms in lifting family, friends and neighbors with knowledge and mutual respect our communities enjoy," Elder Gong said.

He said the church hopes the relationship between the two churches will continue to grow.

Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson speaks in front of Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson, during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Kol Ami synagogue in Salt Lake City on Sunday. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News

Rabbi Spector said it has been "incredibly touching" to see leadership from major political parties reaching out to see how they can help the Jewish community, despite the religion being a very small minority. He said politicians have proven time and time again that they will support the Jewish community.

Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall each spoke at the celebration.

Mendenhall said although the Jewish population is fewer than 2% of the state of Utah, it has a far greater positive impact on the community

Henderson said, "We care about our communities. We care not only about what unites us as Utahns but the things that make us different and unique. We believe that harmony is being different together, and that's what this congregation represents."

She said the relationship between government and faith communities is important to the state's history, and she looks forward to the next 50 years of the congregation. Henderson read a proclamation recognizing May 2023 as the 50th anniversary of the Kol Ami congregation.
Lawmakers sent a formal letter asking for answers from FEMA on the inner workings of Risk Rating 2.0, a new measurement system that determines the flood risk of a home on an individual basis.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La, and House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chair James Comer, R-Ky, penned a letter to FEMA requesting documents and communications regarding all calculations and planning for how Risk Rating 2.0 would be implemented. Risk Rating 2.0 took effect April 1, 2021.

The letter was signed by 49 other Congressional members and it was sent to FEMA on May 1. It lays out 13 questions all requesting the inner workings of how flood insurance prices are determined, and what economic impacts the rollout would have on the country.

"The process leading to the rate increases has been less than transparent. Congress has an obligation to ensure that the U.S. flood insurance market is stable and affordable for all Americans and particularly those on a fixed income," the letter reads. "To understand the premium calculations and the overall marketplace, we request certain documents and information. Additionally, we request a staff-level briefing as soon as possible on the effects of the increases on all aspects of the various marketplaces such as the housing market."

Under the new Risk Rating 2.0, FEMA said its goal is equity and to ensure that rates are based on individual risks. Most Lafourche and Terrebonne residents saw an increase in their annual flood premiums. Some saw a decrease.

A person is seen riding a bike on Monday, Aug. 30, 2021, past a gas station that has mild flooding in its parking lot in Houma, La.

These increases will be a slow burn, which critics say misleads the public to the total costs; however, the limit to the increase is determined by law to 18% per year. The average total increase to Lafourche will be 321%, and for Terrebonne, 305%. The hardest hit parish is Plaquemines, which will see a 545% increase. These figures were presented to the South Central Industrial Association by Consultant Caitlin Berni.

Story continues

More: Congressional members meet with stakeholders to discuss energy

More: Louisiana lawmakers advance bill to raise their pay; will teachers get one too?

Over 12,000 Lafourche Parish policyholders saw an increase in their rates from $1-$100, while 350 saw a decrease. Terrebonne Parish had over 14,500 policyholders see a similar increase, while 590 saw a decrease.

Policyholder participation has dropped since Risk Rating 2.0 took effect on April 1, 2022, but the loss of participation preceded the rollout of Risk Rating 2.0, according to figures provided by FEMA. Participation doesn't fully reflect the solvency of the program, said FEMAs Assistant Administrator of the Federal Insurance Directorate and the senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program, David Maurstad, because it is dependent on those policyholders' risks.

The program is currently in debt for $20.5 billion to the U.S. Treasury, according to figures cited April 28, when Maurstad went before Congress, April 28. He said that the program is currently burdened with debt that could be used to help make policies more affordable for lower-income families.

The change to the new rating system has bristled many who say FEMA acted of its own accord, and that it may price people out of Terrebonne and Lafourche because they won't be able to afford the costs.

Speaking with The Houma Courier/Daily Comet, Wednesday, Regional Flood Insurance Liaison Gilbert Giron said affordability is a concern of FEMA as well, but their hands are bound by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968.

"[Affordability] has been a big concern of ours, but the National Flood Act of 1968 requires that the [National Flood Insurance Program] have a financially sound program, not a financially sound affordable program," he said. "Right now we don't do anything on this because we are not allowed to by law. If that was to change we could incorporate aspects that could take affordability into consideration, but until then, our hands are literally tied."

This article originally appeared on The Courier: Congress demand answers from FEMA. FEMA says it is bound by their laws
More than 40 congressional Democrats urged the Biden administration, in a letter released Monday, to consider the possible environmental risk of liquefied natural gas (LNG) expansion.

Forty-four senators and representatives wrote to Brenda Mallory, chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), calling on her to develop specific best practices for the LNG infrastructure approval process.

Specifically, the members expressed concerns that CEQ assesses LNG permits based on a Trump-era framework that does not address upstream methane emissions. The 2020 changes to the assessment process barred the CEQ from considering indirect environmental impacts of permitting.

Although methane dissipates faster in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, it is also about 25 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere, making it a particular concern as a driver of climate change.

The letter was led by Sen. Jeff Merkley (Ore.) and Reps. Raul Grijalva (Ariz.), Jared Huffman (Calif.) and Nanette Diaz Barragan (Calif.).

Our ability to combat the worst impacts of the climate crisis depends, to a significant degree, on whether the United States approves proposed LNG pipeline and export terminal projects on top of the already-substantial LNG infrastructure, the members wrote.

CEQs guidance should include examples and best practices for how agencies should conduct meaningful engagement to ensure that relevant agencies conduct proper and adequate analysis of the direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of LNG infrastructure, they added.

U.S. production of LNG has dramatically expanded in recent years, particularly for export to European nations seeking an alternative to the Russian oil they relied on before the invasion of Ukraine. Exports rose to an average of 10.6 billion cubic feet per day last year, a 9 percent increase from 2021, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, which projects a daily average of 12.1 billion per day this year.

The Hill has reached out to CEQ for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
EVANSVILLE  The unlicensed contractor who federal prosecutors indicted alongside Pigeon Township Trustee Mariama Wilson and one of her aides pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.

The contractor, Terrance D. Hardiman, was allegedly hired by Wilson and the township to renovate a homeless shelter and construct a food pantry. Prosecutors accused Hardiman of funneling a portion of the funds to Wilson and her community outreach director, William Payne, in an alleged kickback scheme.

Federal officials said Hardiman is not licensed to perform contracting work in Indiana. In addition to the federal case, local prosecutors in Vanderburgh and Gibson counties accused Hardiman of defrauding customers earlier this year.

The alleged Pigeon Township scheme, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana, netted Wilson and Payne about $19,000 each.

More: Pigeon Township trustee, two others indicted in alleged 'kickback scheme'

Hardiman's decision to plead guilty has not been previously reported by the media. According to federal court records, prosecutors agreed to dismiss all but two of the charges filed against Hardiman in exchange for his guilty plea.

According to the agreement, Hardiman could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervision after his release from prison.

The plea agreement appeared in federal court records Friday, just 10 days after prosecutors announced indictments against Hardiman, Wilson and Payne. The same day Hardiman agreed to plead guilty, the Indiana State Board of Accounts published a scathing report alleging gross mismanagement of funds at the township.

State auditors conducted their investigation in parallel  and at times alongside  local and federal law enforcement, according to U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Zach Myers.

Wilson and Payne each face five counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Hardiman originally faced the same charges as Wilson and Payne, in addition to one count of money laundering. He initially entered a plea of not guilty.

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More: Here's what happens when a township trustee is charged with a crime in Indiana

Wilson and Payne have both pleaded not guilty, and a Pigeon Township Trustee's Office representative declined to comment on the matter Friday morning. Wilson has not returned requests for comment, nor have members of the Pigeon Township Trustee's Office Advisory Board.

What is known about the case

According to a federal indictment and state auditors, Wilson and Payne hired Hardiman in February 2020 to remodel the Dorothea McGregor Family Shelter and install a food pantry.

Federal prosecutors detailed 11 invoices paid by the township to Hardiman between Feb. 21, 2020 and May 11, 2022, which they allege Hardiman inflated for the purposes of the scheme.

"Hardiman deposited the checks and then withdrew all or nearly all the deposited amount in cash for the purpose of kicking back a portion of the proceeds to Wilson and Payne," a U.S. Department of Justice news release states. "Hardiman placed cash in an envelope and hand-delivered the envelope to Wilson or Payne. Wilson or Payne then divided the kickback."

The indictments followed a months-long FBI investigation into the township office's financial records. The investigation became public knowledge in July 2022 when FBI agents, alongside Indiana State Board of Accounts auditors, showed up at the township's Eighth Street offices.

More: FBI's visit to Pigeon Township trustee's office a surprise, lawyer says

The Indiana State Board of Accounts audit stipulates that Wilson and Payne should repay nearly $90,000 to the township and to the state.

Among the report's key findings is that Pigeon Township allegedly paid Hardiman more than $30,000 for work he never completed.

The revelation comes after multiple private customers of Hardiman's company, Hardiman Construction LLC, accused him of accepting payment for jobs he never finished. Hardiman has pending criminal cases in Vanderburgh and Gibson counties, where he stands accused of defrauding customers.

Audit: Pigeon Township trustee, employee should repay nearly $90,000

According to the State Board of Accounts, Wilson told investigators she considered "estimate" documents to be invoices. Both Wilson and Payne reportedly said that if either of their signatures appeared on an invoice or estimate, it was cleared for payment.

"During our inspection of the homeless shelter, Payne claimed that it was not his job to ensure that the work had been completed before the work was paid," the report states.

Township continues operations with Wilson still in charge

The Courier & Press contacted the Pigeon Township Trustee's Office on a recent morning, and a representative said, "We are continuing as we have."

During two afternoon visits to the township, representatives told a Courier & Press reporter Wilson had left the office for the day and could not comment.

The State Board of Accounts said auditors discussed their findings with township board president Ruby McGlown and board members Connie Robinson and Shirley Baker and Wilson on April 27.

Houston can be contacted at houston.harwood@courierpress.com

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Terrance Hardiman pleads guilty in Pigeon Township kickback scheme
By Rod Nickel and Nia Williams

(Reuters) -Cooler weather across Alberta on Monday helped firefighters battling widespread wildfires in Canada's main oil-producing province, but the government said it could be months before all the blazes are brought under control.

Alberta declared a state of emergency on Saturday in response to wildfires that have displaced nearly 30,000 people and prompted energy producers to shut in at least 280,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd), more than 3% of Canada's output.

By Monday afternoon 98 wildfires were still active, with nearly 30 classified as out-of-control.

More than 700 firefighters had been deployed and Alberta had requested a further 1,000 from other provinces, who were expected to arrive over the next week, officials said.

The provincial government also invited volunteers with firefighting skills to register with the province to help tackle the blazes. The government wanted to utilize the many people across the province with firefighting expertise, particularly in Indigenous communities, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said.

"Some of these fires might continue on for several months so if we can use resources that are already here, the people who are able to help, we want to be open to doing that," Smith said at a press conference.

The premier also announced emergency payments of C$1250 ($935) for Albertans forced to evacuate for seven days or longer.

ALBERTA SEEKS FEDERAL HELP

Alberta has formally requested help from the federal government, including military assistance, and Smith spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau earlier in the day.

"We talked a lot about the different ways the federal government can help and we will be working to make sure that we're supporting Albertans right across the province as necessary," Trudeau said in televised remarks.

Canada is the world's fourth-largest crude producer, and about 80% of its oil comes from Alberta. The fires primarily affected light oil and natural gas producers, who shut in operations as a precaution. There have been no reports of injuries or damage to facilities so far.

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"While we remain optimistic for a safe and quick resumption of production, the impacts to some affected companies could be meaningful if volumes are impacted for an extended period of time," analysts at Stifel FirstEnergy said in a research note.

Canadian daily natural gas exports to the United States fell to 6.7 billion cubic feet on Sunday, their lowest since April 2021, according to data provider Refinitiv.

Pipeline company Enbridge Inc said its assets were operating as normal but the company did "expect some minor fluctuations in volumes as some customers upstream may be impacted", according to a statement.

TC Energy said it has shut down two compressor stations on its NGTL gas pipeline system, which connects most of the natural gas produced in western Canada to domestic and export markets.

"Other sections of the NGTL system and other pipeline systems continue to operate safely and we continue to monitor the situation closely," TC said in a statement.

Alberta is also Canada's biggest cattle-producing province. Some ranchers were moving livestock away from fires to rodeo grounds or other public places, but no cattle are known to have died from fire or smoke, said Karin Schmid, an official at the Alberta Beef Producers industry group.

Farmers in some areas are already dealing with drought, and the fires will likely further set back the growth of hay and grass to feed cattle, Schmid said.

($1 = 1.3372 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by Denny Thomas and Sam Jabri-Pickett in Toronto, Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Scott DiSavino in New York and Nia Williams in British Columbia; Editing by Kevin Liffey, Grant McCool and Sonali Paul)
Cornell AgriTech has announced Christine Smart as its new director, effective Oct. 1, 2023.

Smart, a crop pathologist, replaces current interim director, Olga Padilla-Zakour, who will resume her duties as a professor of food science and director of the Cornell Food Venture Center.

In statements to the press, representatives from Cornell praised Smart for her skills, calling her a "visionary leader" for the college.

Smart has more than 20 years of experience in extension, education, and outreach and has leveraged research and extension activities at Cornell AgriTech to improve sustainable crop health and production across New York state.

Smart earned her B.S. and Ph.D. degrees from Michigan State University and joined the Cornell faculty in 2003.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Christine Smart appointed new director of Cornell AgriTech
An Australian-British author who participated in TV coverage of King Charles coronation has apologised after joking about the need for snorkels on a Pacific Island nation being lost to catastrophic sea-level rise.

Kathy Lette, a novelist and TV personality, was part of a Sky News UK panel during royal celebrations on Saturday alongside Patrick Harrison, former press secretary to the King, and retired Olympic athlete, Dame Kelly Holmes.

The discussion had turned to the Commonwealth of nations and which countries want to become republics, removing King Charles as head of state.

Sky News presenter Anna Botting referenced Tuvalu as one that wanted to stay (in the Commonwealth) the most.

Ms Lettes responded by saying: Tuvalu - well they are about to go underwater.

Lets hope not, Ms Botting added.

But Ms Lettes continued: So, snorkels on! before miming the diving device and a royal wave.

Tuvalu, a tiny island nation of 12,000 people midway between Australia and Hawaii, is one of the worlds most at-risk places from sea-level rise driven by the climate crisis.

At high tide, 40 per cent of Tuvalus capital district is underwater and the entire nation is projected to disappear beneath the ocean by the end of the century.

In a video shown at #COP26, Tuvalu's foreign minister Simon Kofe stands knee-deep in seawater to demonstrate the "realities of climate change" and rising sea levels.



"We are sinking, but so is everyone else."



:Tuvalu Ministry of Justice, Communication and Foreign Affairs pic.twitter.com/lqRotTJjyg  Human Rights Watch (@hrw) November 9, 2021

How can anyone find humor in the potential loss of entire countries and cultures due to climate change? Its beyond comprehension and completely unacceptable. We must call out this behavior and hold those responsible accountable for their ignorance, tweeted Simon Kofe, Tuvalus Minister for Justice, Communication, and Foreign Affairs, in response to Ms Lettes remarks.

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Mr Kofe made an impassioned speech from Tuvalu, standing knee-deep in the ocean, during the Cop26 climate summit in November 2021 to highlight the countrys vulnerability to sea-level rise. We are sinking, but so is everyone else, he warned.

Ms Lette issued an apology following the remarks saying that she had not intended to cause offense.

I am a committed environmentalist and horrified by climate change and the damage and devastation it inflicts on our poor planet, Ms Lette said, in a statement emailed to The Independent.

Im so sorry if, during a live Sky broadcast in which I was supporting the Kings passion for conservation, a throw away comment I made about Tuvalu sinking, came across as glib or uncaring in any way. It was meant as a climate change warning as melting ice is jeapardising so many low lying countries, so please accept my apology for clumsy phrasing. The dangers of broadcasting live!
Coronation Street actor Ciaran Griffiths's character Damon Hay is part of some big storylines right now, including having an affair with married Sarah Barlow.

But the actor is currently on the cobbles for a good time not a long time, as he doesn't actually live in Manchester  his home is in Australia.

Not only that, he recently starred in the thriller Riptide, which was created by the Neighbours production company (Fremantle Australia), partly filmed in the studio used by the Aussie soap and broadcast on Channel 5. Now Neighbours is coming back on Amazon Freevee, could Ciaran start popping up on Ramsay Street?

ITV

Related: Coronation Street star Shelley King reveals she's being tested for autism

"Yeah, if it meant I could have regular work near my family, then absolutely," he told Inside Soap magazine. "Melbourne is a great city. I'd want to play something completely different to anything I've done before, so maybe some old washed-up, Meth-head surfer. I'd get to be out in the sun!"

Comparing filming TV out in Australia to filming in the UK, Ciaran said: "They're a lot more laid-back in Australia. The pace is a bit slower  but the weather's better!

ITV

Related: Coronation Street's Rob Mallard hints at possible split for Daniel and Daisy

"When I'm here freezing on the cobbles and they say they're taking your coat as we're going for a take and you have to act warm, it's hard! I did a job in Melbourne last January [their summer]; it was scorching. I can't handle the cold now."

Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.

Read more Coronation Street spoilers on our dedicated homepage

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Miscommunication surrounding a recent Tarte brand trip left TikTok influencer Bria Jones feeling like a second-tier person.

If youre an avid TikTok user, odds are youve heard the name Tarte come across your For You page at some point this weekend. For those not tapped into the world of beauty influencers or BlackTok, heres everything you need to know about this situation.

Tartes latest influencer trip sparks discourse on TikTok. (Photo: Getty Images)

This weekend, content creators, specifically Black content creators, rallied behind fellow influencer Bria Jones (@heybriajones) after she posted a now-deleted video expressing her frustrations after being invited on Tartes Formula 1 Miami trip. The lifestyle influencer explained how, despite her excitement to go on the trip, she has more integrity than to get all the way to Miami and realize that [shes] being treated like a second-tier person.

Jones explains how she was initially very excited to be invited on the brands Traveling with Tarte trip to Formula 1 (F1), a prestigious racing competition in Miami. But upon looking at her travel itinerary, the lifestyle influencer realized the brand scheduled her to go home a day earlier than her fellow influencers on the trip. Reportedly scheduled to arrive on Thursday and leave on Friday, Jones would not have been able to experience the actual racing competition on Sunday and would only attend the practices leading up to the main event.

I will be damned as a Black creator if I accept anything other than equal treatment on these trips, she said in her video.

After learning that her other content creator friends were scheduled to leave Miami on Monday, Jones couldnt help but feel she was being treated unfairly. In her video, she acknowledges that her numbers are not like some of these other creators; however, that did not justify an invited guest being left out of the main events.

As grateful as I am to be invited on a Tarte trip, I was sad to realize my experience was going to be different than my friends that were also invited, Jones wrote in her caption, as reported by Elite Daily. I have been on many brand trips, and typically, everyone is treated the same, so this caught me off guard. I wish I had the heads up.

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Shortly after Jones video went viral, Tartes CEO Maureen Kelly posted a TikTok in response. Wanting to clear the air, Kelly deemed the situation a miscommunication, blaming ignorance from the Tarte team regarding how F1 weekend worked. According to the CEO, the brand prioritizes fun during their Traveling with Tarte experiences and was not thinking about what was going on, on the track. Kelly shares that the plan was for every content creator to experience one day at the track, one really nice dinner, and one really fun night at the club.

In a statement to Insider, Tartes CMO, Sam Kitain, said the miscommunication resulted from the staggered arrivals and departures of all the influencers invited to the three-day event.

However, this is not the first time Tarte has been called out for its influencer trips; as Kelly alludes to in her video, the brand has made its share of mistakes. At the top of this year, social media called out Tarte for a lack of diversity in an influencer trip to Dubai, United Arab Emirates. More recently, Cynthia Victor (@shawtysin), an influencer of color who attended the brands recent trip to Turks and Caicos, felt like she got the short end of the stick after noticing she received a notably smaller room compared to other influencers on the trip.

Following the viral discourse surrounding her video, Jones deactivated her account and revealed to Insider that she experienced online bullying and death threats due to the situation. However, on Sunday, the lifestyle influencer temporarily reactivated her account to share a post captioned, The situation with Tarte has been resolved, and all parties are glad to be moving forward positively.

Ive been in contact with Maureen and the Tarte team, and we are very much so on the same page with everything, said Jones in a new video updating her followers. There was miscommunication on both ends, and I recognize my mistake for responding so quickly and publicly. But Tarte has done a great job at working through the situation with me.

Jones also revealed that the entire situation had taken a toll on her mental health, and she will be taking a break from social media.

Unfortunately, were real people, and the comments and threats really get to you, stated a joint statement between Tarte and Jones. We both feel for anyone whos had to go through something like this.

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 Cosmetics brand Tarte faces backlash after TikTok influencer calls out disparate treatment appeared first on TheGrio.
Mykhailo Podolyak

"Obviously, having gained autonomy, you subconsciously consider yourself to be better than other regions. For a unitary state, autonomy is a dangerous path, a path of conflict at the regional level," Podolyak said.

Read also: Goal number one. Three Stages of the Return of Crimea - opinion

Podolyak emphasized the need to respect the rights of all minorities, meaning the Crimean Tatars who "have deserved (all) Ukrainians' sympathy."

Ukraine will regain control of Crimea without fighting, Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov said earlier.

Read also: While panic grips Russians in Crimea, Ukrainian supporters show increasing confidence  video from Yalta

However, an option for a military offensive to restore government control of the Ukrainian territory is still being considered, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry has said.

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
For National Arson Awareness Week, officials urged vigilance after witnessing an uptick in fires set to conceal other crimes.

>> TRENDING: 2 juveniles, adult secured following shooting in Huber Heights

Ohio State Fire Marshal urged people to remain vigilant after receiving reports that arsons were on the rise. What made it worse was that criminals were setting fires to cover up other crimes, a spokesperson for the Ohio Department of Commerce claimed.

Arson is a destructive act, which involves setting fire to property, and can result in devastating consequences, including loss of life, property damage, and economic losses, the spokesperson said. Arson attacks have been carried out against individuals, businesses, and even entire communities.

In 2022, 385 of the 953 fires, or 40 percent, were deemed arson, according to the State Fire Marshals Fire and Explosion Investigation Bureau, a law enforcement agency that investigated the origin and cause of a fire. This was an 18 percent increase from 2021.

In 2023, 147 of the 385 fires, or 38 percent, were intentionally set.

As a result, State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activity as National Arson Awareness Week went underway.

The use of arson as a weapon of violence and crime concealment is a concerning trend, Reardon said. The economic impact of arson is staggering, with millions of dollars lost in property damage. We must raise public awareness of the dangers of arson and encourage individuals to report any suspicious activity.

Officials believed that arson may have been on the rise because it was a criminals tool to destroy evidence of other crimes, such as theft, burglary, or murder, the spokesperson said. This made it more difficult for law enforcement to identify and prosecute those responsible.

However, the publics reporting of these events could help catch criminals.

Many arson cases have been solved by somebody sharing what they saw; even the smallest details can be just what our investigators need to get these individuals arrested and off the street, Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau Chief Josh Hobbs said.

The Blue Ribbon Arson Committee offered up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a person responsible for arson.

Anyone with information was urged to contact the Ohio State Fire Marshals Office at 800-589-2728. More information could be found on their website.
After the latest mass shooting in Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott said funding for mental health services is the key to preventing future tragedies from occurring.

On Saturday, eight people were killed during an afternoon of weekend shopping at the Allen Premium Outlets. Seven more people were wounded. The motive and mental health history of the shooter, who was killed by a police officer, is not known, although reports say he might have white supremacist and neo-Nazi views.

The tragedy, which comes less than a year after a mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, has prompted Abbott and other lawmakers to tout mental health treatment as the best response to mass shootings.

There has been a dramatic increase in the amount of anger and violence that is taking place in America and what Texas is doing in a big time way, Abbott said on Fox News Sunday. We are working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause, which is addressing the mental health problems behind it.

But two researchers who have extensively studied gun violence, including mass shootings, said focusing on mental health and mental health alone would not end mass shootings in Texas or throughout the U.S.

Gun violence and mental illness are two really different public health problems, said Jeffrey Swanson, a professor in psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the Duke University School of Medicine. Fix mental health, which we hear all the time from people like Gov. Abbott and others after a horrific mass casualty shooting, is a great slogan for a different public health problem.

In 1990, Swanson published research that gathered data from 10,000 people, and asked them about their violent behaviors, their psychiatric diagnoses, and other demographic and risk factors. The study found that people with serious mental illnesses, like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression, are somewhat more likely to commit violent acts than people who are not mentally ill, but the large majority are not violent toward others.

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If we could completely eliminate serious mental illness as a risk factor, Swanson said, the prevalence of violent acts toward other people would decrease by less than 4% in the U.S.

Adam Lankford, a professor of criminology at the University of Alabama, said mental health should be a part of the conversation when it comes to mass violence, but that it shouldnt be the only part.

If you say its mental health, its mental health, its mental health, and youre the governor of Texas, I would say, Well, why are you allowing people with significant mental health problems to legally purchase firearms? Lankford said. And not just firearms, but essentially military grade weapons?

Both Lankford and Swanson pointed to so-called red flag laws as an important area for further research in the effort to decrease future mass shootings. Red flag laws typically allow family, friends, or other individuals to petition a court to temporarily take away firearms from people who might be a risk to themselves or others.

Texas does not have a red flag law.

On Sunday, Abbott told viewers across the nation that the Texas Legislature was preparing to commit an additional $3 billion to mental health initiatives.

In 2020, the most recent year for which death data is available, 309 Tarrant County residents died by a firearm, according to death certificate data. Of those 309 deaths, more than half died by suicide. According to the most common definition, a mass shooting involved four or more people who have died in a public place. Per that definition, no people died from mass shootings in Tarrant County in 2020.
A 23-year-old Santaquin man died when a pickup truck loaded with rocks rolled over him, Utah police told news outlets.

The man and his 47-year-old mother were loading rocks into the truck bed at about 4:30 p.m. Saturday, May 6, when his young son climbed into the cab, KSL reported.

The 5-year-old knocked the trucks gear selector loose, causing the truck to roll backward over his father and grandmother, The Salt Lake Tribune reported.

The man died at the scene, KUTV reported. His mother was flown to a hospital with serious injuries.

Police told KTVX the trucks gear shifter was broken, allowing it to be moved while the engine was off.

A GoFundMe established to help the family said the man had two children, ages 3 and 5, and his wife discovered shortly after the accident that she was pregnant with their third child.

The GoFundMe said his mother remains hospitalized with multiple surgeries ahead.

Santaquin is a city of 15,000 people about 65 miles south of Salt Lake City.

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Two men were shot, one fatally, after police said they broke into a Tennessee home.

Police responded to a home around 8:30 p.m on May 5 and found a 52-year-old man wearing a mask with multiple gunshot wounds at the front door of the house, according to a news release from the Murfreesboro Police Department. Kevin Ford was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

A preliminary investigation showed that two men wearing masks and gloves broke into the house through the front door, according to the release.

The men went into the home and used a Taser on the family dog, police said, before they held the homeowners teenage son at gunpoint.

Police said the homeowner got his gun and then shot the two men. One died at the home while the other fled.

The second man, 42-year-old Clifford Wright, was found at a nearby Salvation Army with multiple gunshot wounds, police said. He was taken to a hospital and treated for his injuries before he was taken into custody.

Wright is charged with aggravated burglary, attempted aggravated robbery, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony, according to the release.

The homeowner is not facing any charges, police said.

Murfreesboro is 34 miles southeast of Nashville.

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The Dallas Morning News is urging Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) to take action on gun violence after a gunman killed eight people at a Dallas-area outlet mall over the weekend.

Gov. Abbott, Eight more innocent people were killed in Texas yesterday. This time it was a shopping mall. They were simply going about their day, men, women, children. A man got out of his car and sprayed them with bullets of such a high caliber and in such rapid succession that a mass killing was inescapable, the Dallas Morning News editorial board wrote in an open letter to the governor.

The board also called out Abbott for labeling the Allen Premium Outlets killings an unspeakable tragedy, arguing instead that the people of Texas need you to speak to it and its cause.

There is nothing conservative about refusing to acknowledge evidence or give voice to the true nature of a problem. The people who are dead today are not dead because a twisted and evil soul walked among them, the editors wrote.

They are dead because that person was able to obtain a weapon so powerful and with such high capacity that even the bravest and fastest response of law enforcement could not save their lives.

Abbott focused on mental health in a Fox News interview after the shooting, arguing theres a dramatic increase in the amount of anger and violence thats taking place in America.

More from The Hill

But mental health struggles are becoming more common across the world, members of the editorial board  which recommended Abbott for reelection last year  countered, while saying no nation suffers from mass shootings like the U.S.

The outlet mall shooting, in which seven people were injured, comes less than a year after the massacre of 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde last year.

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Texas State Sen. Roland Gutierrez (D), who represents Uvalde, over the weekend compared living in Texas to living in communist Russia and called out Abbott and other leaders and law enforcement for refus[ing] to tell us the truth as to whats going on here.

This is not the Texas miracle that Greg Abbott likes to call it. Were living in a Texas nightmare, and its a nightmare that they created. Its a chaos that they created, Gutierrez said.

Reports indicate the gunman in the Allen outlet mall shooting used an AR-15-style rifle  and reporting found responders to the Uvalde incident held off on confronting the shooter out of concern over the high-powered weapon he used.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Herald-Leader is profiling the major candidates for the GOP nomination for Kentucky governor. Read the other profiles at Kentucky.com in coming days.

Daniel Cameron has been hailed as a rising star in the Republican Party for years.

A standout appearance at the 2020 Republican National Convention exposed the first-term Kentucky attorney general to a wider audience, which hes bolstered in the years since with frequent appearances on Fox News. Hes the first Black person independently elected to statewide office in Kentucky history, and hes cultivated relationships with both former president Donald Trump and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

But before he can continue that ascent, hell have to best 11 other Republicans who are also vying for the Governors Mansion in the May 16 primary. While all the public polls so far show Cameron is poised to come out on top, the field has narrowed as Election Day has drawn nearer.

Two of the front-runners  Cameron and former ambassador Kelly Craft  have been embroiled in an increasingly contentious battle for the nomination. The two campaigns  and PACs backing them  have spent millions on attack ads, and the candidates have been unafraid to take jabs at one another in the press and on the rare occasion they share a stage.

Cameron is no stranger to being attacked, though. His offices handling of the investigation into the fatal 2020 Louisville Metro Police shooting of Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman, has been scrutinized nationally.

Im ready to be the governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and want to help serve for the remainder of this decade as the governor, Cameron said. Weve had failed leadership from Andy Beshear. ... We need a new direction, someone who reflects the values of the men, women and children of all 120 counties.

Cameron on the issues

Restoring Kentucky values: As a big-picture issue, Cameron said Kentucky needs a governor who respects the values that Kentuckians hold dear  unlike Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear. For most folks, when you have a governor who is absolutely silent when the Department of Justice refers to parents as domestic terrorists, I think that is a sign that this governor isnt willing to step up to some of the far-left elements of his own party. Cameron also said Beshear picked winners and losers during the pandemic by deciding which businesses could stay open and which couldnt, and that the Kentucky governor has has been close-mouthed when it comes to, at all, holding the Biden administration accountable for the policies at the southern border.

Public safety: As attorney general, Cameron is the top law-enforcement official in Kentucky and has promised to be a governor who backs the blue. He has called for the Kentucky State Police to open a post in Louisville in response to violent crime.

Workforce participation: Cameron said he wants to see able-bodied participants back into the workforce. I understand that there was an expansion of Medicaid and that now includes able-bodied participants. ... We want to make sure this program is solvent for those that are means-tested or medically necessary, but when you include able-bodied participants, we should also make sure that program is transitory for these individuals. So that is why I believe we need to move forward with a work component as it relates to those individuals. If elected, Cameron said he would request to add those work requirements to Kentuckys Medicaid expansion within his first few days in office.

Abortion: Cameron supports Kentuckys abortion ban as-is, which only allows for abortions in the event of medical emergencies that threaten the pregnant persons life. As attorney general, Camerons office has fought to uphold Kentuckys anti-abortion laws in court.

LGBTQ legislation: Cameron supports Senate Bill 150, passed by the 2023 General Assembly. The bill bans gender-affirming care for kids under 18, lessons on gender identity and sexual orientation, prevents trans students from using the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity and stops school districts from requiring teachers use a students pronouns if they dont align with their sex assigned at birth. After Beshear vetoed the bill, Cameron said he set a dangerous precedent for our childrens future, but also endangers their health and well-being. The veto was quickly overridden by the legislature, and now the ACLU is suing to overturn major provisions of the bill; Cameron has vowed his office will defend the bill in court.

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Who is supporting Camerons bid?

Former President Trump has offered Cameron campaign for governor a complete and total endorsement, something he frequently touts in ads and on stage.

Hes strong on crime. Hes strong on the borders, Trump said in a video. Hes strong on everything you want him to be. He loves our military. He loves our vets, and he will always take care of them and law enforcement. Number 1, above all, hes with them and hes with stopping crime, so I just want to let you know that as such an important place, its very important to get it right and youre getting it right with Daniel Cameron as your governor.

The Cameron campaign has had strong financial support, having raised nearly $1.5 million as of the most recent finance report.

Throughout his campaign, Cameron has received donations from notable political figures both inside and out of Kentucky, including former gubernatorial candidate Hal Heiner, GOP state representatives John Hodgson and Mary Beth Imes, and Henry Perot III, the grandson of billionaire former independent presidential candidate Ross Perot.

Additionally, a PAC supporting Camerons bid, Bluegrass Freedom Action, received an influx of money to bring its total funds raised this cycle above $2.7 million. Of that, $2.25 million has come from dark money group The Concord Fund, which is well-known for funding attempts to reshape American courts to become more conservative.

Cameron also says more than 100 law enforcement officials have endorsed his campaign.

What Camerons opponents are saying:

Cameron has faced the lions share of attacks this primary season.

The Craft campaign and a PAC supporting her has slammed his record on coal, criminal justice and an alleged ethics violation related to political donations.

Craft has slammed Cameron for allowing the woke federal Department of Justice to conduct a patterns and practices investigation into the Louisville Metro Police Department following the Taylor shooting.

What does that say about backing the blue? Craft said. We need to have complete confidence in our law enforcement.

Cameron was heavily criticized in fall 2020 when just one officer was indicted for his role in the Taylor shooting  and not for her death. That scrutiny was renewed in August 2022 when the DOJ charged four officers for their roles, including the falsified warrant that led police to her door; Camerons office didnt look into how the warrant was obtained.

Fellow GOP candidate and suspended Northern Kentucky attorney Eric Deters has said Cameron cant win because of his handling of the Taylor case, calling it a millstone around his neck.

In response, Cameron said he remains proud of the work his team did on that case.

Why Cameron says he is the best to take on Beshear:

In making his pitch to voters, Cameron plays up his history of fighting Beshear and President Joe Biden in court, whether thats over covid-19 closures or vaccine mandates. He also returns to his oft-repeated claim that Beshear doesnt understand the values of Kentuckians.

He certainly doesnt understand Kentuckys values and Kentuckians need to be reminded of that, Cameron has said. If he understood our values, he wouldnt have shut down churches in the midst of the pandemic. If he understood our values, he wouldnt have picked winners and losers during the midst of the pandemic. ... If he understood our values, he would be fighting daily to preserve our coal industry.

He also touts his Trump endorsement, noting he is the only one with the ex-presidents backing; Trump remains immensely popularity in Kentucky, which he won by more than 20 percentage points in 2020.

Cameron quick facts:

Name: Daniel Cameron

Age: 37

City of residence: Graymoor-Devondale, a Louisville suburb

Previous political/public experience: Attorney General of Kentucky

Professional experience: Law clerk for U.S. District Court judge, legal counsel to U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, attorney in private practice

Learn more: www.cameronforkentucky.com; Daniel Cameron for Governor of Kentucky on Facebook; Daniel Cameron on YouTube; @danieljaycameron on Instagram; @DanielCameronAG on Twitter

Quote: So 2023 is a transformational moment for the Commonwealth. We get to decide how we want Kentucky to look through the remainder of this decade. Do we want someone whose mere presence in the governors mansion emboldens the far left or do we want someone that reflects the values of the men, women and children of all 120 counties I hope you decide that Im that candidate.

Heres the complete list of candidates running for Kentucky governor in 2023
Daytona Beach police are investigating two shootings that happened within two hours of each other on Monday less than 2 miles apart.

Police said the first shooting happened around noon in the 200 block of College Park Drive and the second happened before 2 p.m. near the intersection of George Street and Whitehall Street.

Officers said preliminary information confirms that the shootings are not related, but both remain under investigation.

In the first shooting, officers said a man suffered from a single gunshot wound and was taken to a nearby hospital in stable condition.

Read: FHP: Driver who hit, killed 71-year-old man also crashed into mailbox, tree, light pole & house

In the second shooting, police said a man who was shot was also hospitalized in stable but critical condition.

Officers have not released any information about possible suspects in either case.

Stay tuned to Eyewitness News for updates.

See a map of the two scenes below:

Officers are working a person shot call in the 200 Block of College Park. Please remain clear of the area while units investigate.  Daytona Beach Police (@DaytonaBchPD) May 8, 2023

Officers are working a person shot call in the area of George Street and WhiteHall Street. Please remain clear of the area while units investigate.  Daytona Beach Police (@DaytonaBchPD) May 8, 2023

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Waris died after being assaulted by cow vigilantes, his friend alleges

On a cold morning in January, a car smashed into a van in Tauru, a small town in the northern Indian state of Haryana.

Inside the car were three young Muslim men: Waris, Nafiz and Shaukeen.

Waris is now dead. Nafiz is in jail. And Shaukeen is yet to come to terms with the horrors of the night.

Shaukeen alleges that his friend was beaten to death by a group of Hindu men after they spotted a cow trussed up in the back of the car.

The 26-year-old claims the cow belonged to Nafiz, who was taking it back to his home in Haryana from Bhiwadi district in neighbouring Rajasthan state. Shaukeen and Waris were accompanying him when they were chased by a group of cow vigilantes. These are Hindu men - mostly armed with sticks and other weapons - who keep a watch for vehicles transporting cattle to prevent cow slaughter, which is illegal in many Indian states.

The police, however, say that there were no visible injury marks on Waris's body.

"We were informed about the road accident by a truck driver and some gau rakshaks [cow protectors]. When we reached the spot, the three men were inside the car. We took them to a nearby hospital. One of them died of his injuries later," said Varun Singla, superintendent of police in Haryana's Nuh district, where Tauru is located.

He added that the van, which was carrying vegetables, had also been damaged. "The driver was unscathed but his son, who was on the passenger seat, suffered minor injuries."

Police arrested Nafiz and Shaukeen on cow smuggling charges because they "found a cow in the car", Mr Singla says.

But Shaukeen, who is now out on bail, says that their car hit the van only because they were being chased by a vehicle which belonged to the cow vigilantes.

The BBC has accessed CCTV footage of the crash in Tauru. It shows a four-by-four with a siren on its roof approaching the car moments after the accident.

Then, according to a video filmed by a local man who was at the spot, a group of men who appeared to be armed with weapons, including guns, pulled out the cow from the car's boot and bundled the three Muslim men into the four-by-four.

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Shaukeen says the death of his friend still haunts him

Shaukeen alleges he and his companions were then beaten up by the gang, who later took them to hospital and that Waris died on the way.

"Waris did not die in the accident. There was not a single injury from the crash," he says, adding that it was a "targeted killing" against Muslims.

The cow is worshipped by millions of Hindus, who are the majority of India's population. While cow slaughter was already a sensitive topic and banned in some states, it has become a hotly debated issue since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power nationally in 2014.

The BJP-led state governments have cracked down heavily on cow slaughter. Sale and consumption of beef is now illegal in about two-thirds of India's 28 states, most of them governed by the BJP, including Haryana. Cow vigilante groups have been accused of enforcing this ban through violence, often leading to assaults and even lynchings of mostly Muslim meat sellers and cattle traders.

Mr Modi has criticised these groups in the past but several high-profile assaults have occurred even after that.

At Waris's home in Nuh, his family is still grappling with the shock of his death.

"If someone is committing a crime, any crime, the police should punish them," says Imran, Waris' elder brother.

He questions why vigilante groups in the state were "given the right to take the law in their own hands".

Cows are worshipped by Hindus, who make up most of India's population

But Ravi Kiran, an inspector general of Haryana police, told the BBC that a post mortem report confirmed that Waris's death had been caused by the crash. He added that the police were willing to investigate the matter further if they got any new information on the case.

Shaukeen alleges that a man named Monu Manesar, a well-known cow vigilante who regularly uploaded videos of himself questioning cattle transporters, was the leader of the men who assaulted them. On the day of the incident, Mr Manesar had live-streamed a video of Waris and his friends being "interrogated" by himself and some other men. In the video, which has now been deleted from Mr Manesar's Facebook profile, the Muslim men had visible injuries on their face.

"Monu was saying 'beat them' and everyone was hitting us. It was all done at the direction of Monu," Shaukeen alleged.

The BBC couldn't contact Mr Manesar, who is currently wanted for questioning by police in another case of alleged cow vigilantism. But in a BBC interview in January he had denied any involvement in Waris's death.

He claimed that his group had been informed that a cow was being loaded into a car and reached the spot, only to see the vehicle speed away.

"I reached the site of the crash after about 35 minutes. I saw two police cars. The men in the car were slightly hurt so I told people to give water to them. The police later took them to the hospital," he said, adding that he only heard about Waris's death hours after the crash.

Cow vigilantes hold night patrols to catch suspected smugglers

Imran alleged that his brother's death was part of a larger pattern of violent assaults by cow vigilante groups.

He connected Waris's death to another high-profile case - the murders of two Muslim men, Junaid and Nasir - that made headlines in India a few weeks later.

The charred bodies of Junaid and Nasir were found in a burnt vehicle in Haryana's Bhiwani district in February. Their relatives have alleged they were killed by members of a Hindu hardline group who, according to media reports, accused them of cow smuggling. Five men, including Mr Manesar, were named in the police complaint but police have said that only three suspects have been arrested so far.

The BBC visited Junaid and Nasir's family in Bharatpur in Rajasthan.

"His body was brought in a bag. It was ashes. There was nothing, just a handful of ashes and a few bones," said Junaid's wife Sajida, wiping away tears.

She said she was worried about how she would look after their six children alone.

The deaths had sparked protests by Muslims in Bharatpur, who alleged that cow protection laws were being used to target them.

"Everyone is afraid. The fear is that they might pick you up. They pick up anyone, take them away, beat them, then they accuse them of anything like cow smuggling or transportation," alleged Mahmur, Nasir's older brother.

Junaid's wife Sajida worries about the future of her children

More than a hundred miles away, in Haryana's Manesar town, a group of men who identified themselves as cow protectors gathered at a sprawling shelter.

The BBC spoke to many of them, who claimed that they worked with the police and acted within the limits of the law. Some of them said that they, too, were sometimes attacked when on patrol.

"If there is a woman in the market and we see someone misbehaving, should we wait for the police?" asks Dharminder Yadav, who was the local cow protection group leader before Mr Manesar took over.

Mr Yadav denied allegations of Muslims being targeted. "Our laws say that we need to protect cows. Whatever our law says, it's our duty to follow. Our enemy is the cow smuggler and not just Muslims," he said.

Shaukeen claims he is now too scared to step out of his house.

"Waris is dead and I don't want to be killed like him."

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:
The political divide over raising the debt limit will come to a head this week when President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) meet face-to-face at the White House.

The meeting  set for Tuesday  will mark the first time since Feb. 1 that Biden and McCarthy will speak at length about the debt ceiling and government spending. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) also will be in attendance.

The huddle comes one week after Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen announced the U.S. could default on its debt as early as June 1 if the borrowing limit is not raised, upping the pressure on Congress and the White House to strike a deal and avoid economic catastrophe.

Both sides, however, are digging in their heels, increasing the stakes going into Tuesdays meeting.

Also this week, the House is scheduled to vote on a border security and immigration reform bill  the same day Title 42 is set to expire. And on Wednesday, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee is set to have a hearing on the conflict in Sudan.

Biden, congressional leaders meet amid debt limit standoff

Tuesdays meeting at the White House marks a critical moment in the debt-limit standoff, which has been ongoing since January and faces a looming deadline next month.

But discussions about  and concerns regarding  the borrowing limit kicked into high gear in the past week after Yellen warned the U.S. could run out of cash to pay its bills on June 1, leaving Congress and the White House less than a month to come to some sort of bipartisan consensus.

The sprint to that deadline will hit a fever pitch Tuesday, when the top four congressional leaders huddle with Biden at the White House.

Its a very important discussion, Jeffries told NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday, referring to this weeks meeting.

Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) addresses reporters during an April 28 press conference.

The gathering comes as both sides dig in their heels over how to deal with the debt limit. President Biden and congressional Democrats have pushed for a clean debt ceiling increase, meaning no conditions are associated with the hike. Democrats have said they are willing to discuss spending cuts as part of the annual appropriations process.

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But Republicans on Capitol Hill are pushing spending cuts to be tied to any lift of the debt ceiling. House Republicans narrowly passed a bill last month that would increase the debt limit into next year and implement $4.8 trillion in spending cuts, but Schumer has said it is dead on arrival in the Senate.

The stalemate hardened on Saturday when 43 Republican senators  including McConnell  penned a letter to Schumer saying, The Senate Republican conference is united behind the House Republican conference in support of spending cuts and structural budget reform as a starting point for negotiations on the debt ceiling.

They warned that they will not vote to begin debate on any bill that raises the debt ceiling without substantive spending and budget reforms, deepening the divide between the two parties.

Heading into Tuesdays meeting, Democratic and Republican negotiators are showing no signs of wavering from their stances.

Yellen reiterated on Sunday that the U.S. can run out of cash for its bills in early June  and warned of what could happen should the U.S. default on its debt for the first time in history.

Its widely agreed that financial and economic chaos would ensue, the Treasury Secretary told ABCs This Week.

U.S. Treasury securities are the safest bedrock security underlying the global financial system. A failure of the United States to honor all of its debt would call into question our creditworthiness, she added. Even as we get very close to this date, if Congress doesnt act, were likely to see financial market consequences.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen answers questions during a Senate Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government hearing on March 22.

As the calendar inches closer to the June 1 deadline, a number of avenues are being floated as potential ways to lift the debt limit and walk the U.S. away from the edge of the fiscal cliff.

Both sides could strike a deal, or lawmakers could vote for a short-term debt limit hike, allowing for more time to negotiate a long-term solution.

Jeffries on Sunday, however, told NBC, I dont think the responsible thing to do is to kick the can down the road.

Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), the chair of the House Financial Services Committee and a close McCarthy ally, told CBSs Face the Nation on Sunday, I think everythings on the table at this point, when asked about a short-term increase.

House Democrats are also eyeing a discharge petition to force a vote on a debt ceiling increase, but that would require support from at least five Republicans should Democrats remain banded together  and GOP cooperation is far from assured.

More from The Hill: House Democrats reveal secret plan to force vote on debt limit hike

One other avenue discussed during the Sunday show circuit is citing the 14th Amendment. The amendment contains a clause that says, The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned, leading some to wonder whether it allows the U.S. to keep paying its bills even if the borrowing limit is not raised.

But in an interview with ABC, Yellen said invoking the amendment would be a constitutional crisis.

Our priority is to make sure that Congress does its job. There is no way to protect our financial system and our economy other than Congress doing its job and raising the debt ceiling and enabling us to pay our bills. And we should not get to the point where we need to consider whether the president can go on issuing debt. This would be a constitutional crisis, she said.

House to consider border bill with Title 42 set to expire

The House is scheduled to consider a border security and immigration reform bill this week, just as Title 42 is set to expire.

The legislation  titled the Secure the Border Act  was introduced in the House last week by Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.).

The measure, according to a fact sheet, would compel the Biden administration to restart constructing the wall on the southern border, expand the number of Border Patrol agents, put an end to the catch-and-release policy, and strengthen and streamline the asylum process, among other tenets.

It will hit the floor after weeks of discussions within the House GOP conference over different parts of the legislation.

House Republicans have spent months holding hearings with border patrol agents, local law enforcement, and stakeholders to hear first-hand about their ongoing struggles and what resources are necessary to enhance security and regain operational control, Diaz-Balart said in a statement last week while introducing the measure.

He said the legislation will provide real, thoughtful solutions to restore order at the Southwest border, enhance our national security, and most importantly, protect unaccompanied minors  something that the Administration has refused to acknowledge and failed to act upon.

Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.) addresses reporters after a closed-door House Republican conference meeting on July 19, 2022.

The House is slated to vote on the bill Thursday  according to multiple outlets  the same day that Title 42 is set to expire. The Trump-era policy allows for the rapid expulsion of migrants at the border and prohibits them from seeking asylum. Its expiration is expected to lead to an increase in migrants arriving at the border.

In a statement last week, House GOP leadership references Title 42s expected expiration.

With Title 42 ending on May 11, and a surge of illegal immigration already occurring, we cannot afford to be blind to the truth, as the Biden administration has been for over two years. Our border is not secure and we must act, McCarthy, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) and House GOP Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) wrote.

Senate panel to hold a hearing on conflict in Sudan

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing this week focused on the situation in Sudan.

The hearing  titled Conflict in Sudan: Options for an Effective Policy Response  is slated for 9:45 a.m. Wednesday. Witnesses include Victoria Nuland, the under secretary of state for political affairs, and Sarah Charles, the assistant to the administrator at the U.S. Agency for International Developments Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance.

The hearing comes amid a conflict in Sudan, where military factions  the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces  have been fighting one another. More than 100,000 people have fled the country to neighboring nations amid the conflict, the United Nations refugee agency said last week.

Last month, the U.S. military evacuated embassy personnel and their families from the country as the fighting continued.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
David Dunning and Justin Kruger tested psychology students to see whether the least skilled were also the most unaware. Rich Vintage/E+ via Getty Images

John Cleese, the British comedian, once summed up the idea of the DunningKruger effect as, If you are really, really stupid, then its impossible for you to know you are really, really stupid. A quick search of the news brings up dozens of headlines connecting the DunningKruger effect to everything from work to empathy and even to why Donald Trump was elected president.

As a math professor who teaches students to use data to make informed decisions, I am familiar with common mistakes people make when dealing with numbers. The Dunning-Kruger effect is the idea that the least skilled people overestimate their abilities more than anyone else. This sounds convincing on the surface and makes for excellent comedy. But in a recent paper, my colleagues and I suggest that the mathematical approach used to show this effect may be incorrect.

What Dunning and Kruger showed

In the 1990s, David Dunning and Justin Kruger were professors of psychology at Cornell University and wanted to test whether incompetent people were unaware of their incompetence.

To test this, they gave 45 undergraduate students a 20-question logic test and then asked them to rate their own performance in two different ways.

First, Dunning and Kruger asked the students to estimate how many questions they got correct  a fairly straightforward assessment. Then, Dunning and Kruger asked the students to estimate how they did compared with the other students who took the test. This type of self-assessment requires students to make guesses about how others performed and is subject to a common cognitive mistake  most people consider themselves better than average.

Research shows that 93% of Americans think they are better drivers than average, 90% of teachers think they are more skilled than their peers, and this overestimation is pervasive across many skills  including logic tests. But it is mathematically impossible for most people to be better than average at a certain task.

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After giving students the logic test, Dunning and Kruger divided them into four groups based on their scores. The lowest-scoring quarter of the students got, on average, 10 of the 20 questions correct. In comparison, the top-scoring quarter of students got an average of 17 questions correct. Both groups estimated they got about 14 correct. This is not terrible self-assessment by either group. The least skilled overestimated their scores by around 20 percentage points, while the top performers underestimated their scores by roughly 15 points.

The results appear more striking when looking at how students rated themselves against their peers, and here is where the better-than-average effect is on full display. The lowest-scoring students estimated that they did better than 62% of the test-takers, while the highest-scoring students thought they scored better than 68%.

By definition, being in the bottom 25% means that, at best, you will score better than 25% of people and, on average, better than just 12.5%. Estimating you did better than 62% of your peers, while only scoring better than 12.5% of them, gives a whopping 49.5 percentage-point overestimation.

The measure of how students compared themselves to others, rather than to their actual scores, is where the DunningKruger effect arose. It grossly exaggerates the overestimation of the bottom 25% and seems to show, as Dunning and Kruger titled their paper, that the least skilled students were unskilled and unaware.

Using the protocol laid out by Dunning and Kruger, many researchers since have confirmed this effect in their own fields of study, leading to the sense that the DunningKruger effect is intrinsic to how human brains work. For everyday people, the Dunning-Kruger effect seems true because the overly arrogant fool is a familiar and annoying stereotype.

Debunking the Dunning-Kruger effect

When students are asked to rate their ability objectively, they do much better than when they compare themselves with their peers. greenwatermelon/iStock via Getty Images

There are three reasons Dunning and Krugers analysis is misleading.

The worst test-takers would also overestimate their performance the most because they are simply the furthest from getting a perfect score. Additionally, the least skilled people, like most people, assume they are better than average. Finally, the lowest scorers arent markedly worse at estimating their objective performance.

To establish the Dunning-Kruger effect is an artifact of research design, not human thinking, my colleagues and I showed it can be produced using randomly generated data.

First, we created 1,154 fictional people and randomly assigned them both a test score and a self-assessment ranking compared with their peers.

Then, just as Dunning and Kruger did, we divided these fake people into quarters based on their test scores. Because the self-assessment rankings were also randomly assigned a score from 1 to 100, each quarter will revert to the mean of 50. By definition, the bottom quarter will outperform only 12.5% of participants on average, but from the random assignment of self-assessment scores they will consider themselves better than 50% of test-takers. This gives an overestimation of 37.5 percentage points without any humans involved.

To prove the last point  that the least skilled can adequately judge their own skill  required a different approach.

My colleague Ed Nuhfer and his team gave students a 25-question scientific literacy test. After answering each question, the students would rate their own performance on each question as either nailed it, not sure or no idea.

Working with Nuhfer, we found that unskilled students are pretty good at estimating their own competence. In this study of unskilled students who scored in the bottom quarter, only 16.5% significantly overestimated their abilities. And, it turns out, 3.9% significantly underestimated their score. That means nearly 80% of unskilled students were fairly good at estimating their real ability  a far cry from the idea put forth by Dunning and Kruger that the unskilled consistently overestimate their skills.

DunningKruger today

The original paper by Dunning and Kruger starts with the quote: It is one of the essential features of incompetence that the person so inflicted is incapable of knowing that they are incompetent. This idea has spread far and wide through both scientific literature and pop culture alike. But according to the work of my colleagues and me, the reality is that very few people are truly unskilled and unaware.

The Dunning and Kruger experiment did find a real effect  most people think they are better than average. But according to my teams work, that is all Dunning and Kruger showed. The reality is that people have an innate ability to gauge their competence and knowledge. To claim otherwise suggests, incorrectly, that much of the population is hopelessly ignorant.

This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. The Conversation has a variety of fascinating free newsletters.

It was written by: Eric C. Gaze, Bowdoin College.

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Eric C. Gaze does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine plans to increase the number of sappers and involve 5000 Ukrainian bomb technicians, create a sapper training centre jointly with the American Tetra Tech company, and mobilise Ukrainian resources for manufacturing equipment for mine detection and disposal.

Source: Oleksandr Pavliuk, first deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, in an interview for Ukrinform news agency

Quote: "As a result of Russias armed aggression, Ukraine became the most mine-contaminated country in the world. At the moment the territory is over 174,000 km2, out of which 14,000 are sea water areas, which correspond to one third of the territory of Ukraine.

These are all territories, in which combat action is or was ongoing, which are currently temporarily Russia-occupied, or which were struck with aircraft and missile attacks.

The area of the liberated territories, which is already being inspected, is 45,000 km2, out of which 17,000 km2 is agricultural land."

Details: Pavliuk states that the scale and density of contamination of Ukraine with explosives can be compared with that in Europe after the Second World War.

As a result, there is a high need of human resources, equipment and budget for examination and mine clearance.

Quote: "With the resources we have at the moment, it will take decades. It is unacceptable so the defence ministries are working on it non-stop. The demining of Ukraine must not become the challenge for our children, let alone our grandchildren.

According to the decision of the Ministry of Defence, only the Armed Forces and State Transport Special Service of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine plan to involve 5000 bomb technicians.

Such increase in the quantity of personnel and proper supply of it with modern mine detection devices, examination and mechanised demining for a safer work execution will significantly decrease time spent on the clearance of the Ukrainian land from explosives."

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Details: Pavliuk stressed that even this will not be enough as the war is still ongoing. So Ukraine is increasing the number of sappers, creating sapper training centres relying on the experience of other countries, using modern equipment and means provided by the allies, and facilitating the production of necessary equipment by the Ukrainian manufacturers.

Ukraine has its own education institutions, which train bomb technicians, but it is not enough due to the scale of mine contamination. So the Ministry of Defence is constantly working to involve the allies and partner-states of Ukraine in the process.

One of the examples is the launch of a joint project with the US Tetra Tech company by the Ministry of Defence. Tetra Tech is acting on behalf of the US State Department.

Quote: "The result of our cooperation is the creation of a modern training centre able to prepare 500 humanitarian demining technicians a year. The sappers will be trained in accordance with the international standards and will have the opportunity to use the most modern methods and equipment for defusing the explosives.

During my meeting with the representatives of Tetra Tech we discussed not only establishing the training centre but also its uniqueness, as we did not have the opportunity to focus on training humanitarian demining specialists before. This project is a non-stop closed loop, within the framework of which people will train from beginner level to the highest possible level, EOD-3+."

Details: Pavliuk called modern robotised platforms and machines for mechanised demining one of the key needs for Ukraine. The machines are able to demine about 4,000-6,000km2 in one shift, while a single sapper is only able to demine 50 m2 per shift, manually and risking his/her life.

Pavliuk reported that currently, the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and State Special Transport Service of Ukraine, which are demining the liberated territories, are only covered by 10% within the framework of the international aid.

Recently, Pavliuk held the first interdepartmental meeting concerning the possibilities of Ukrainian companies to produce modern demining equipment.

"We focused on the achievements of Ukroboronprom (the Defence Industry of Ukraine  ed.) in the manufacture of demining machines on the basis of the T-64A tanks, the already existing manufacture of armoured vehicles for the transportation of explosives, as well as the production of the equipment needed by different anti-mine operators: from drones and means of manual demining to trawls and robotised platforms," the Deputy Defence Minister stated.

He added that "this is only the first basic stage" of work, and as many as possible of the Ukrainian enterprises must be involved.

The official added that according to World Bank estimates, humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine will require a total of US$37 billion, with more than US$397 million needed this year alone.

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By Arpan Chaturvedi and Aditya Kalra

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Authorities in India's capital New Delhi have sought to quash Pernod Ricard's court challenge against a decision to reject its city liquor licence, saying the French company did not meet the necessary requirements, a legal document showed.

Pernod's brands, which include Chivas Regal and Absolut vodka, have not been available in Delhi for more than six months. Pernod has challenged in the Delhi High Court the city's April 13 decision to reject its sale licence citing ongoing investigations against the company.

India's federal financial crime agency has accused the company of illegally making profits by giving false information to Delhi city authorities in 2021, and violating rules by financially supporting retailers in exchange for stocking more of its brands. Pernod has repeatedly denied wrongdoing.

Pernod last month asked a judge to push Delhi city to grant it a licence, saying no wrongdoing had been proved. But a new court filing on Monday by the city's government, which is not public but has been seen by Reuters, showed the city has asked the judge to quash Pernod's case.

The French company can appeal the rejection with senior Delhi officials, the city said in the filing, which said Pernod "has not fulfilled conditions for grant of licence".

In a statement to Reuters, Pernod said it will follow due process to obtain the Delhi license, adding: "We are keen to re-start supplies as soon as possible."

The spirits giant has told the court in a filing it has suffered "massive losses" because of the situation.

India contributes 10% of Pernod group sales. The Delhi business accounts for 5% of Pernod's sales in the country and the company is "hopeful" it can obtain the licence, CFO Helene de Tissot told Reuters last month.

(Reporting by Aditya Kalra; Editing by Kirsten Donovan and Barbara Lewis)
Photo Illustration by Thomas Levinson/The Daily Beast/Getty/Reyes Mata III

In a busy section of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Banesa Moreno Navarrete stands on a sidewalk leading to the downtown general hospital.

This was the walk, she said, closing her eyes and pressing her hands against her face. This is where I was always afraid they were going to tell me that my father was dead.

Her father, Mario Arturo Moreno, was a military veteran who served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1972. Deported in 2019, he fell ill in January this year and was checked into a Mexican hospital with a ruptured appendix.

With Moreno becoming increasingly sick, his family quickly applied for humanitarian parole, which would have allowed the ailing veteran to be brought to a U.S. VA hospital across the border, less than an hours drive away.

The Juarez hospital had issued a letter, which the family provided to Homeland Security, that described the U.S. veterans health as being critical with a high risk of death in the short term. This bolstered the familys hopes that the U.S. government would grant the emergency petition for their father.

Mario Arturo Moreno and his daughter Banesa Moreno Navarrete. Reyes Mata III

I had everything set up to take him to El Paso. The ambulance in Juarez would bring him to the bridge, and the transport from the El Paso VA would be there. Everything was in place. We just needed the humanitarian parole, said Navarrete.

But in a terse response from Homeland Security, the family was told that permission for a deported veteran to enter the United States was discretionary and considered to be an extraordinary measure, sparingly used only in urgent or emergency circumstances.

The letter, written by Timothy R. Meadows, unit chief for the agencys Parole and Law Enforcement Programs, was sent via email on Jan. 30. Moreno died from septic infection two days later.

Instead of the U.S. Army veteran being allowed to enter the United States for emergency medical treatment only his ashes were returned to the country which he had served.

I dont know if I was mad, or heartbroken, or insulted. I guess all of that, said Navarrete. How could they say it was not a true emergency?

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His family acknowledges the crimes Moreno committedattempted murder and two drug convictionsbut said he served his time. Morenos deportation, they added, was unrelated to his crimes. He was flagged only because he tried to get a U.S. passport and was unable to provide documentation proving he was legally in the country.

The indignity of Morenos last days of life weighs heavy on his daughter, who said she had a very close relationship with him, often treating him like my son and not my dad.

Banesa Moreno Navarrete sitting where she sat when her father Mario Arturo Moreno was in hospital. Reyes Mata III

She said she tries not to dwell on the denial from Homeland Security, but cannot keep from being angry at the suffering her father endured in a Mexican hospital that could not even provide their own bandages for patients.

I had to bring them every day, she said.

Instead of being surrounded by family at his time of death, Moreno was next to a bloodied stranger, one of 27 injured people from a riot at the nearby Cereso state prison where 14 people were killed in an armed cartel attack on the jail.

Instead of the free healthcare that his military service would have provided, the family was forced to take out personal loans to pay the $13,000 hospital billwhich needed to be provided before the hospital would release her fathers body, she said.

Repeated requests for comment sent to the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement by The Daily Beast were unanswered.

The plight of deported veterans has come under recent scrutiny after a scathing 2019 government accountability analysis found that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency had been flaunting its own policies meant to protect the rights of now-deported veteranslacking even an accurate record of how many it has kicked out of the country. Tempers flared as federal lawmakers demanded answers.

Non-citizen veterans are falling through the cracks of our broken immigration system, said U.S. Rep. Mark Takano, chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, in a statement blasted out after the 2019 U.S. Government Accountability Office report was released. It is unacceptable to know that veteran deportations could have been prevented if ICE had been following official agency policies.

While government records show that 250 veterans were placed in removal proceedings between 2013 and 2018 with 92 deported, the nonpartisan Center for Public Integrity estimates that thousands of foreign-born veterans may have been deported.

In February 2021, President Joe Biden issued an executive order to help more eligible deported veterans return to the U.S. But since then only 50 veterans have been granted re-entry into the country, according to a report this year by the Center for Public Integrity.

With inconsistent records on deported veterans, its unclear where they might be, but veterans assistance experts believe most are in Mexico. They say with PTSD encumbering many servicemenseven out of every hundred is the official estimation by Veterans Affairsthe tumult of Mexican life amid warring cartel factions is a poor match for anxious former servicemen.

Hyper-vigilance, general confusion, and suicidal tendencies are easily aggravated, sometimes pushing deported vets to thoughts of ending their struggle in a violent impulse common with PTSD.

All that comes to my mind. Hanging myself, or a shot to the head, said Noe Zapata-Perez, a 59-year-old former Army National Guardsman who was deported to San Luis Potosi 18 years ago after he failed to renew his green card and was pulled over for driving under the influence.

Zapata-Perez owns a small grocery store in Matehuala named Abarrotes El CharroGroceries by the Mexican Cowboywhich stocks everything except alcohol, which he gave up as part of his hard-fought sobriety.

I put a red light when those thoughts come to mind, said Zapata-Perez, adding that his loyalty is still strong for the United States.

No tiro la bandera (I never drop the flag). I dont give that up. Im a warrior, yeah. Im a soldier.

Mexican cartels often approach people with military experience to join their criminal organization, a fear that Zapata-Perez says is constantly on his mind.

Im afraid of that. Of cartels coming in to try and recruit me. I always keep an eye out. They have come to ask me for a fee, said Zapata-Perez, meaning a regular payment for protection which, if denied, often means riling cartel hitmen into unleashing assaults, torching businesses, or murdering the owner, sometimes family and employees as well.

But I look them in the eye. Im not afraid. But I think God is doing that for me.

When Zapata-Perez was 8, he came into the United States with his father, who he describes as a hard-working man, a skilled cook with no schooling, maybe a second-grade education in Mexico.

Born in Matehuala, Mexico, Zapata-Perez had a simple life in the mining town, a region picturesque but gripped in poverty.

I came from el rancho, just a village, then my family came to the U.S. for the American dream, like everyone says, he said.

He joined the Army National Reserves right after high school and served for 11 years, participated in a tour to Honduras, artillery training in New York, extreme cold weather training in Michigan, and two rotations in the Mojave desert.

Why cant Homeland Security forgive me? Maybe I did some stupidity, but that was alcohol related, and Im done with that, he said.

The feelings of abandonment by his government are strong, Zapata-Perez said, adding that the only message hed send to the United States would be for his military comrades.

Send the chopper, and rescue me. They put me in a war zone with no ammo, he said. Its a war zone after midnight. You can hear the gunshots, bam bam bam. You can hear the cartel fireworks.

Zapata-Perez says he has spent three years trying to get permission to re-enter the U.S. in order to receive medical attention for a back injury as well as urgent dental work but to no avail.

I filled out documents left and right, he said. Theres no VA assistance here in Central Mexico, nothing whatsoever. Thats probably why I drank, to ease the pain, mentally and physically. But Im clean, now 9 months.

Perhaps most synonymous with Mexican violence is Ciudad Juarez, a city of nearly 1.5 million people that saw nearly 2,500 violent homicides in 2021 and 2022. It sits just across the border from El Paso, Texas.

Former U.S. Navy serviceman Gerardo Jerry Zaragoza has lived in Juarez for the past 18 years. Now 43, he remembers his first entry into the United States as an 8-year-old child crossing on the shoulders of a coyotewho carried him across the Rio Grande into the United States. The smuggler also pulled a plank strapped onto an inflated inner-tube that carried his mother and younger brother Luis.

Jerry Zaragoza and his mother Cruz Santillan at the border where they crossed when he was a child. Reyes Mata III

On a recent Sunday morning, Zaragoza and his mom met on the Mexican side of the international Bridge of the Americas, surveying the edge of the river where they first crossed into the United States 35 years ago.

I dont want to relive the past. It is such a terribly sad time for us, said his mother, Cruz Santillan, who lives legally in El Paso. She stood a short distance from the river, pointing at the Salt Cedar trees lining its edge.

We walked up to that area, and got by the water to get on the tube. (Jerry) was carried by the man. And I had my little boy with me in my arms, on the wood. I was very afraid because I dont know how to swim. I was thinking about the future for my kids, for him and his brother.

After climbing off the makeshift raft onto the river bank, Santillan remembers that a distant U.S. Border Patrol land cruiser was speeding towards her and the group of other people crossing.

We all started running and we kept running, we were all very afraid, she said. My children were crying and crying. (Jerry) was afraid that they were going to take him to jail, and I had to assure him, no it's going to be okay.

They fled into a nearby apartment complex where a relative lived, eventually renting an apartment, and starting their life in the United States.

After high school, Zaragoza joined the military. Illegally, he thinks.

It was a movida, he said, a crafty way around a problem because he lacked a permanent resident card. So his Navy recruiter used his employment authorization card, which allows only temporary legal status in the United States.

But I remember my recruiters words exactly. He said: do not tell anybody about your legal status, cause you'll be in trouble. So I never mentioned it to anyone, said Zaragoza.

Nonetheless, Zargoza said he was eager to move up in the Navy ranks.

I was as happy as a motherfucker because I thought I was gonna be a badass killing machine, a part of the Navy SEALs.

Then he learned something that crushed his hopes: Only U.S. citizens could advance to the SEALs. Also weighing on him was rampant racism he said was coming from some of his commanding officers.

Mexicans this and Mexicans that. It was very uncomfortable, he said. Eventually, his morale tanked. I was too depressed to stay. I was younger and really stupid. But it all took a toll on me. Making fun of me and my race, I got tired of taking that shit. I was drinking three or four bottles of Jack Daniels each week. That would take the pain away.

I lost the thing that I thought I could be for my country, a Navy SEAL. Well, for what I thought was my country, he said. I went AWOL and got a dishonorable discharge.

He settled into El Paso life, including regular trips into Juarez. When he was 25, walking back from Juarez with his brother after a trip to a favorite Mexican restaurant, his illegal status caught up with him.

I remember at the bridge saying U.S. citizen and then the CBP guy said show me your ID. Sure thing. Here you go, Zaragoza recalls telling the border agent. I actually forgot that my work permit had expired. Really, as far as I knew, I was a U.S. citizen. I had been in El Paso for so long.

They said I was imitating a U.S. citizen. I was deported. I thought it would be temporary. But it has been 18 years. I think it is permanent, he said.

Life in Mexico means barely escaping random violence, constant vigilance, and sometimes just closing his eyes to his reality.

I dont watch the news. I dont watch nothing like that because its just bad news. If you dont hear that they killed 5 people that nightand this is that night onlythen that means youre not in Juarez.

While at a Juarez restaurant a few years back, he said he saw a group of men swarm inside so he quickly left. Hearing a series of shots behind him, turning back, he saw a man bloody and shot to deathhis face was in the damn soup, he said.

Often wary of leaving his home, he said life in Mexico is a state of oppression, something entirely unfamiliar to people in the United States, he said.

The way they live here, its bad. Everybody has to settle for whatever shit they throw at them. Its bad because of the way you cant rise up and say no you cant do that because you're afraid that they might kill you, he said.

Zaragoza, who suffers from depression, a back injury, and suspected PTSD, had one attempt at humanitarian parole rejected last year, he said, for reasons Homeland Security has not disclosed. Hes working on another one.

In Tijuana, the huge Mexican city of more than two million across the border from San Diego, California, violence has racked up an average of more than 2,000 killings each year for the past three years. Last year cartels hijacked and torched more than a dozen vehicles in a series of escalating violent acts that forced the city to enact a curfew for its residents.

That was right down the block from me, said Edwin Salgado, a former U.S. Marine deported to Mexico in 2016. That violence was just a snapshot of the chaos in the city, he said.

Edwin Salgado. Reyes Mata III

Someone was killed a half block away from me, and Ive known people that have been tortured and killed. Its crazy.

Salgado said hes been bludgeoned and robbed in Tijuana, once by a group of men hired by a local business owner who pointed a gun at him and threatened to have him killed and buried where I wouldnt be found.

He was born in this border town in 1981, then came into the United States with his parents when he was three. At age nine, his father died, an event that pushed him into the Marines, he said, because it was the hardest and I had something to prove to myself.

He enlisted at 18, and was among the first 100 Marines who landed on the ground for the Iraq War, where he provided security, worked with military police to escort people off the base, as well as guarding POWs.

We basically set everything up. That was 18-hour days, six days a week. Sunday was a 12-hour day, he said.

After his tour, his entry to civilian life was difficult, he said. The economic downturn meant fewer hours at work, and a failed marriage. He left his home, and things spiraled out of control.

Edwin Salgado after being beaten in Mexico. Reyes Mata III

I started using, and using led to selling. Thats what got me into trouble, he said. I was arrested in Buena Park with a pound of meth and a handgun in my car.

He was bailed out, but police raided his new home a week later, destroyed his floor looking for narcotics, and his furious landlord kicked him out.

I had nowhere to go, so I was living out of my car, he said. Then, he sold drugs to an undercover officer, was arrested and jailed for a year before being deported.

The Marine Corps basically prepared me for anything. One of the things that I learned in the Marine Corps is it could always get worse, he said.

Now sober, he has adjusted over the last 7 years to civilian life in Mexico. The most difficult part of his deportation is not knowing his daughter, Paulina, he said, who is close to turning six.

I havent spoken to her or seen her in around four or five years. I cry when I start talking about her, or thinking about her. Its hard, he said.

But he said he does not plan on leaving Mexico, even if he was successful in his petition to be allowed entry. He is active in assisting other deported veterans in Mexico, and has painted murals on the border wall in Tijuana to keep the plight of deported veterans in the publics eye.

I dont plan on moving back to the states. I just want to be able to go to the VA to get treatment for my PTSD, get my meds there, visit my mom and be able to see my daughter. Thats all I really want, he said.

He said he understands that he is living with the consequences of his mistakes, and feels no sense of betrayal from the United States.

Im responsible for my actions, and Ive never blamed anyone else for whats happened to me. I chose this path, he said. Its not that thats the path I wanted, but its the path that I took. So I dont blame anyone other than myself.

In El Paso, Perez-Zaragoza hugs his mother at the bridge. She was ready to walk back to the U.S. city where she had tried to bring her children for a better life.

Youve made sacrifices for me and my brother, youve done so much, he said. We could not have asked for a better mother.

As she walks away, he turns and heads back to the busy intersections of Juarez.

This is sad. I know she has to go, and I know I have to stay here, he said. Right now I feel like I can just go across the bridge and go home, walk back with her, but that's not going to happen. I just have to take it a day at a time.

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A sheriffs deputy was shot and killed by a DUI suspect who veered off a road in rural Wisconsin, officials said.

The deputy, identified as 29-year-old Kaitie Leising, was dispatched to a ditch in Glenwood where a potentially intoxicated man had crashed his car on Sunday, May 7, according to news releases from the St. Croix County Sheriffs Office and the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Upon arriving at the scene, Leising requested that the driver, 34-year-old Jeremiah Johnson, take a sobriety test.

The pair talked for several minutes before Johnson pulled out a handgun and fired at Leising, officials said.

After being struck, Leising fired back three times, missing Johnson, who fled into nearby woods.

Occupants of a nearby vehicle attempted to assist Leising, who was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

About an hour after the shooting, an officer searching for Johnson in a wooded area spotted him. He was pronounced dead and a handgun was found near his body.

Our love and condolences go out to the family of Kaitie Leising and all those whom she served, St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson said in the release.

We, as a law enforcement family, will do everything possible to continue to provide support and comfort to her family, Knudson added. We will miss her infectious smile and personality. She will be missed by all she touched.

Leising joined the St. Croix County Sheriffs Office in 2022, after serving two years at a sheriffs office in South Dakota, officials said.

Deputy (Kaitie) Leising served St. Croix County with honor and distinction, officials wrote in a statement. Within the last couple weeks she handled a call in Warren (with) great warmth and professionalism. You will not be forgotten.

State and local authorities are working together on an investigation.

Glenwood is a small town about 60 miles east of Minneapolis.

8-year-old boy disappears in woods during family camping trip, Michigan officials say

Couple walking their dog find decomposed body inside suitcase, Texas police say

Dad killed when 5-year-old accidentally knocks truck out of gear, Utah cops say
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed a bill into law that targets United States-adversarial countries, but has many Chinese groups worried it will lead to discrimination.

In its final form, the bill prevents the foreign countries of concern and their officers from buying farmland as well as property within 10 miles of a military installation or critical infrastructure facility.

And no one connected with the Chinese government or the CCP is allowed to purchase real estate in Florida under the bill, nor can anyone who is "domiciled" in China and not a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident.

"Today is one example of Florida really leading the nation in terms of what we're doing to stop the influence of the Chinese Communist party," DeSantis said at press conference Monday.

Lawmakers added in an exception for non-tourist Visa holders, as long as they buy one real estate property that is not within five miles of one of these installations and not larger than two acres.

"We want to make sure that our agricultural land is not compromised by CCP influence," DeSantis said. "[The law] ensures our seaports, it ensures our airports, powerplants, telecom systems and other critical infrastructure will not be compromised by the CPP or any foreign adversary."

The bill passed the Florida House by a 95-17 vote and the Senate with only eight lawmakers opposed.

DeSantis on Monday also signed SB 258, which puts into statute and expands Florida's government device ban on TikTok and other foreign country of concern-created, maintained or owned apps. He signed SB 846, too, which bans state colleges and universities from accepting gifts from and making agreements with foreign countries of concern.

Many of DeSantis comments behind the podium Monday appeared geared toward a national audience.

"When you look at foreign threats, and you look at a country like China and their ambitions, one you've got to recognize the folly of prior American policies for the last generation," said DeSantis, who is expected to soon announce a presidential run. A strong America abroad requires a strong America at home, and I think the elites in this country have ignored problems at home for far too long."

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SB 264, which goes into effect on July 1, bounced between the Senate and House with different amendments and different Democrats expressing concerns last week, until it finally passed Thursday evening.

It targets foreign countries of concern, including Russia, Cuba, Iran and North Korea. It puts the biggest spotlight on China, carving out language specifically devoted to how the legislation applies to its government and those connected with it.

"My concern has always been with the lack of definitions with some of the critical terms used in the bill," said House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa. "Because we have a lack of definitions, if they were viewed to be overbroad, we could veering into the area of national origin discrimination."

But bill supporters dismissed those concerns, saying the bill is needed to address national security.

"This bill should never be about right or left, or Democrat or Republican," said Rep. David Borrero, R-Sweetwater, the sponsor of the House version of the legislation. "This is a bill that protects the national security interests of Floridians."

The bill had been a big priority of DeSantis, who promoted many of the ideas seen in the legislation during a press conference in September.

It also prevents Florida governmental entities from entering into contracts with these countries of concern if personal identifying information is in play.

The legislation initially flew through the Capitol with bipartisan support, passing the Senate and two of three committees in the House without any fireworks.

Then a coalition of Florida Chinese groups caught wind of measure. At the bill's last House committee stop, more than 100 people signed up to testify in opposition. Like Driskell and other Democrats who've spoken against the measure, they worry the language is too broad and will lead to discrimination.

They worry property sellers will be hesitant to consider the Chinese community  or any other Asian community  over fears they'll be breaking the law. And they say the legislation conflates Chinese people with the Chinese government and the CCP.

Dozens gather in front of the Capitol to voice their opposition to SB264 and HB1355 on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. The bills state that Chinese people would not be allowed to purchase homes in Florida.

That conflation happened during the legislative process, as some of the bill sponsors  Borrero and Rep. Katherine Waldron, D-Wellington, another sponsor  alleged the CPP was behind opposition to the bill.

"I would invite you to look more closely at where those protests are germinating from and where the protesters who have shown up here and throughout the state in recent weeks actually live and what groups they are associated with before believing what they are selling you," Waldron said.

But when the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida interviewed various protesters last month, none said they lived outside of Florida. And committee meeting records show almost all of the more than 100 people who testified in opposition to the legislation listed Florida addresses.

Echo King, an attorney from Orlando, Florida, stands in front of protesters who rallied in opposition to SB264 and HB1355 in front of the Capitol on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.

Echo King, a China-born Orlando immigration attorney who helped organize the turnout of a multitude of Chinese organizations to protest the legislation, denied the allegation and called it harmful and scary.

"I'm not CCP. Why would they think that?" King said. "I am afraid because already there's all kinds of rumors about me. But the thing is they can't silence us. If I don't stand up, what am I going to do?"

USA Today Network-Florida government accountability reporter Douglas Soule is based in Tallahassee, Fla. He can be reached at DSoule@gannett.com. Twitter: @DouglasSoule.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: DeSantis signs crackdown on TikTok, foreign land ownership in Florida
Dianna Agron, left, has addressed a rumor about Taylor Swift. (Evan Agostini / Invision / Associated Press)

I don't know about you, but it seems Dianna Agron might not have inspired the song "22."

The former "Glee" star addressed years-old rumors about her and Taylor Swift in a new interview with Marlow Stern of Rolling Stone. During their Q&A, Stern noted that Agron appears in the "22" liner notes "as one of the inspirations for" the Swift hit.

"Me?" Agron replied.

"Oh, if only! Thats more because of a friendship than being the inspiration for the song. But I would not be the person to ask about that. I cannot claim that!"

When Stern informed Agron that some fans and media outlets speculated at the time that she and the "Red" artist were in a relationship, the "Clock" actor remarked, "That is so interesting."

"I mean, there have been many stories about my dating life that are so wildly untrue," she continued. "Thats funny."

Agron also spoke to Rolling Stone about her upcoming projects "Clock" and "The Chosen One," as well as her Jewish heritage and her formative time on "Glee." She admitted that her experiences starring in the popular musical series as a young woman ranged from "appropriate to terribly inappropriate, especially if you're playing a character who people find to be attractive."

(Agron portrayed cheer captain and glee club member Quinn Fabray in the Ryan Murphy show.)

The "young and sexy" label was "the hardest thing for me to reconcile with," Agron told Rolling Stone.

"I was a pretty nerdy kid and not much has changed, so I didnt ever really feel comfortable dolling up or expressing my sexuality in that way, because I didnt even fully understand how I felt about my own sexuality. I really came of age on that show. I was 22 when it started. There were things that happened where I had to learn how to use my voice to advocate for myself, and I wish people would have had more of an awareness to support me or ask my permission."

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The Swift rumor wasn't the only gossip Agron discussed during her conversation with Rolling Stone. She also responded to reports that she was "barred from the Cory Monteith tribute episode" of "Glee." (Agron's co-star and occasional onscreen love interest died of an accidental overdose in 2013. He was 31.)

Tabloids reported at the time that Agron was excluded from the memorial episode at the behest of a cast member and one of the series creators. The Daily Mail printed that the "reason for the snub is alleged to be a widespread dislike of the actress."

"Not true," Agron said.

"There are so many false pieces of information out there. Thats the weirdest thing that you have to learn in this industry  you dont comment on things that are untrue, because that gives them more space. Maybe at the end of my career Ill write a book and go into detail on everything that was very true and very untrue."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Democratic National Convention

Dianne Feinstein, then mayor of San Francisco, addresses the Democratic National Convention in 1992 Credit - Mark ReinsteinCorbis via Getty Images

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Dianne Feinstein had already made history back in 1978, when she became the first woman elected to lead the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, effectively setting the agenda for the legislative arm of the countrys eighth-largest economy at the time. She was, in practice, the Speaker of the S.F. House. But when a former-colleague-turned-assassin returned to City Hall with the intent to kill four political rivals, it was Feinstein who found her colleague Harvey Milk dead in his office. Five bullets struck Milk, Americas first openly gay politician, including two directly into his head at point-blank range, just down the corridor from Feinsteins office.

I walked into one and found Harvey Milk, put my finger in a bullet hole trying to get a pulse, Feinstein said in a 2017 interview, one of the few times she has spoken of the day that instantly made her into a national figure and one whose star has never dimmed. But you know, it was the first person Id ever seen shot to death, and you know when theyre dead.

The assassin had dodged metal detectors at City Hall by climbing through a first-floor window. Before reaching Milks office, he had killed Mayor George Moscone, leaving a vacuum that demanded Feinstein immediately rise to become the first female to lead San Francisco. For Feinstein, the circumstances of her promotion felt deeply unrewarding, but she would go on to win the seat on her own and serve for 10 years. It was one of the string of firsts that would mark a remarkable career in politics stretching from her first appointment in 1960 to the California Womens Parole Board until now, when she is the oldest member of the Senateand, owing to challenging health these days, its most debated figure.

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To say Feinstein, now 89, is facing mounting pressure to resign would be to undersell the swelling frustration even among her biggest fans, both in progressive circles and in the Senate Dining Room. If anything, Feinstein is fast becoming a masterclass in how to spoil a legacy, one that should be taught in books about leadership for decades. Her and her office are providing a stunning demonstration in how to soil an inevitable obituary with tales of missteps rather than of purpose, and how to willfully ignore the well-meaning nudges that have been coming for years now. Rather than being M.I.A., she is now seen as A.W.O.L., even among her apologists.

More from TIME

Sen. Dick Durbin, by no means a radical in his caucus and Feinsteins successor as the top Democrat of the powerful Judiciary Committee, made clear this past weekend how much the narrative had shifted.

I want to treat Dianne Feinstein fairly. I want to be sensitive to her family situation and her personal situation, Durbin said on CNN. I dont want to say that shes going to be put under more pressure than others have been in the past. But the bottom line is: the business of the committee and of the Senate is affected by her absence.

Feinsteins absence for the last two months has left the Senate largely paralyzed, and Democrats paused on the most important thing they can do without the cooperation of the Republican-led House, and thats to confirm federal judges. What started as a murmur has become a boil, and even some of her most temperate colleagues and friends are starting to hint that its time for Feinstein to make clear her timeline to return to the Senate and provide the deciding vote for lifetime judgeships or to step aside and allow another Democrat to take the place.

Democrats in 2020 changed their rules to allow Durbin to step into the chairmanship while still serving as the caucus No. 2 player, a rare double-dip but one justified by Feinsteins uneven performance in recent years. During a Supreme Court confirmation hearing earlier that year, she praised a partisan and rowdy day as one of the best set of hearings that Ive participated in, sparking calls for her immediate resignation. She seemed confused during other hearings. The buzz about her health challenges grew more acute after the 2022 death of her husband, and her absences became harder to ignore.

When Republicans took the House in 2022, they effectively ended Democrats hopes of Congress governing in partnership with the Biden administration. The two years that started in January were largely about small-bore bipartisan initiatives, necessary stopgaps, and packing the courts with Democratic nominees. But to do this, Democrats needed to approve those nominees out of the Judiciary Committee, and Republicans refused to heed Feinsteins reluctant request to allow Democrats to substitute a different lawmaker onto the panel. It was partisan, sure; it was not unpredictable.

Absent a functioning Judiciary Committeeand, to be clear, it could be working just fine had Republicans not predictably gummed it up, as is their rightDemocrats in the Senate are largely left to chase bipartisan fever dreams and bat back House Republicans press releases masquerading as governing ideas. Put bluntly: Feinstein may leave her Democratic colleagues stuck in park for the 118th Congress.

Feinstein in her prime surely would have better understood the moment. After all, the Stanford-educated historian had a savviness that was rarely seen in politicians of any gender. In 1984, she nearly made history as the first female nominee for Vice President from a major party; that role fell to Geraldine Ferraro, although Walter Mondale thought plenty hard about his selection. Since her election to the Senate in 1992, her fingerprints have been all over signature legislation, like the assault weapons ban and the Gun-Free Schools Act, both from 1994. She was the first woman to preside over an inauguration, not to mention the first woman to chair the powerful-but-low-key Rules Committee and its more selective intelligence panel.

From that last perch, she made her own history. In 2014, ignoring tremendous pressure from her own party and the Obama White House, she released a 600-page summary report of the CIAs torture programand continues to fight for the protection and the full release of an accounting of those blemishes on American greatness.

Put simply: Feinstein has been a remarkable force for good if you share her grounding in Democratic politics. Her run is almost unrivaled by any of her colleagues, male or female. Yet the political pressure bearing on her now is impossible to ignore.

Questions about Feinsteins political future have festered for years. Ahead of her 2018 re-election bid, the California Democratic Party passed over the incumbent and endorsed a charismatic, 51-year-old state senator named Kevin de Leon. (California readers will note his recent political problemsand survivalwhile on LAs City Council.) That same year, she drew liberal outrage by waiting to pass along to the FBI a note alleging then-nominee Brett Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted a classmate in the 1980s until after the Judiciary Committee had seemed to have finished its work; the re-opened hearingschaired by Feinsteinturned highly acrimonious, and Justice Kavanaugh now sits on the Supreme Court. And last year, as she was set to become the Senate President Pro Tempore and third in line to the presidency, she declined the place in the line of succession, citing her own legislative ambitions and the recent death of her husband.

Feinsteins reluctance to call it a day for health reasons would not be without precedent. Republicans Johnny Isakson and Thad Cochran both left before their terms ended. But those moves are, indeed, rare, especially in a body that is known for having staffers run so much of the show. Theres a joke on the Hill, weve got a great junior senator in Alex Padilla and an experienced staff in Feinsteins office, one Hill Democrat told The San Francisco Chronicle for a piece last April that gave D.C. permission to have a more open discussion about Feinsteins mental faculties.

Absent answers, Democrats are in a lurch. They had hoped for some time with their friend this week, but she is keeping her return vagueas is the right of anyone facing such a personal decision rooted in a health crisis. But her 40 million constituents deserve someone to represent them, and absent a voting lawmaker for months, thats getting tougher and tougher to defend.

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The Missouri General Assembly heads into the final week of its annual session with Republicans still intent on approving restrictions that make it more difficult for voters to change the state constitution.

But a major first-in-the-nation proposal under consideration could violate the U.S. Constitution, some legal experts and lawmakers say.

While the GOP-controlled legislature has flirted with tightening requirements on the states initiative petition process for years, a measure lawmakers are weighing this time would give rural residents more power in statewide votes on constitutional amendments.

The Missouri Senate in late April passed a measure that would require amendments to receive either 57% support statewide or win a simple majority statewide while also winning a majority of the states eight congressional districts. Currently, only a simple majority is needed to approve amendments.

The inclusion of the congressional district rule, called a concurrent majority, has alarmed Democrats and voting rights activists, who say it would allow a coalition of rural congressional districts to effectively veto most proposed amendments. It comes as abortion rights supporters plan to try to place an amendment on the ballot overturning Missouris near-total ban.

If approved, Missouri would be the only state with such a requirement, according to a review of state ballot measure rules compiled by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Its so obvious, after several sessions of trying to push these bills and some really robust public opposition, I think the lawmakers in this state that are continuing to push these policies are really grasping at straws, said Gina Moore, senior manager of the Defend Direct Democracy campaign at the the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, a Washington, D.C.-based group that promotes progressive ballot measures.

Legislative negotiators must still finalize a compromise package and its possible the idea will eventually be cut. Any proposal passed by the General Assembly would itself have to pass at a statewide vote  but would only need a simple majority.

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Even if the idea is dropped, its passage through the Senate underscores the growing lengths Missouri Republicans are willing to go to curb the use of initiative petitions.

A string of Democratic and progressive ballot measure victories in recent years have left Republicans frustrated. While the party holds commanding supermajorities in the General Assembly and occupies every statewide executive office, voters have approved measures opposed by the legislature.

I think some of the rural folks, many things that go on a ballot get passed in St. Louis and Kansas City and they dont have a voice in it, Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lees Summit Republican, said.

I think theyre trying to make sure that they have a hand in all this and because particularly a constitutional change is a big deal, its a statewide thing and so I think its important.

A proposal in the Missouri General Assembly would give rural voters more influence over state constitutional amendment elections. Some legal experts believe it would violate the U.S. Constitution.

Missouri voters have passed Medicaid expansion, overturned a right to work law, legalized medical and recreational marijuana, raised the minimum wage and approved an ethics and campaign finance overhaul in the past decade.

Several of those recent statewide votes werent overwhelming. Medicaid expansion passed in 2020 with about 53% support. Recreational marijuana also passed with 53% of the vote.

Illustrating the urban-rural divide, all 79 Missouri counties defined as rural by the federal government opposed Medicaid expansion in 2020.

When the vote is close, the concurrent majority requirement could hand rural areas of the state more influence over whether an amendment is approved or rejected. In those instances, the location of voters  not just how they voted  would matter.

Amendments in those instances would need to win not only the state overall statewide election, but also win five of what would effectively be eight additional distinct elections  one for each congressional district.

One person, one vote problem

Some legal experts contend the requirement would violate the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees equal protection under law. Landmark court cases before the U.S. Supreme Court decades ago established the principle of one person, one vote  meant to ensure each voters ballot holds equal weight.

It dilutes their vote. There is a constitutional problem, said Michael Wolff, a former Missouri Supreme Court chief justice who was on the court from 1998 to 2011 and was the chief justice from 2005 to 2007.

Large concentrations of voters in Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia and other urban areas would be helpful for achieving the necessary statewide simple majority. But after that, votes become less valuable the more concentrated they are, unless an amendment wins 57% support statewide. In that way, the requirement would prevent amendment supporters from winning by running up the score in a handful of cities.

The requirement goes to the ability of voters to be treated equally in terms of the strength of their vote, Wolff said. Voters in some congressional districts would have more power per vote than other districts.

The U.S. Supreme Court in 1963 invalidated a county-by-county winner-take-all system for primary elections in Georgia. The justices in an 8-1 ruling struck down the system, which gave each county equal weight in elections even though the population between counties varied significantly. The decision was one in a series of cases that firmly established the one person, one vote principle.

You cant have somebodys vote counting for more because they happen to live in Joplin than a vote cast in St. Louis, said Chuck Hatfield, a longtime Jefferson City attorney who worked for Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon and previously represented ballot measure proponents.

The 1963 decision, Gray v. Sanders, isnt a perfect parallel to the Missouri proposal. When lawmakers draw congressional districts every decade, the districts must have a nearly equal number of residents, for example.

Gregory Magarian, a constitutional law professor at Washington University in St. Louis, doubts the proposal is unconstitutional. While he said he strongly doubts the motives behind the measure, he said everyones vote has the same meaning in the sense that each voter gets to vote within their congressional district.

The initiative petition process already has a geographic component, he noted. For an amendment to qualify for the ballot, supporters must gather signatures equal to 8% of the vote in the last election for governor in two-thirds of congressional districts.

Sort of the same principle, the same basic design, Magarian said.

Still, the concurrent majority idea even faces skepticism from some Republicans who otherwise support overhauling the initiative petition process. Rep. Mike Henderson, a Bonne Terre Republican who sponsored the Houses proposal, said he is concerned the idea would confuse voters and could be blocked in court.

The House measure would raise the threshold for passage of amendments to 60%. Henderson said that while he is open to discussions with senators, he prefers a straight percentage over a concurrent majority.

Im afraid it could violate the 14th Amendment on the one person, one vote rule. I think there are some other people who have those same concerns, Henderson said.

Like many GOP lawmakers, Henderson justifies a supermajority requirement by saying that out-of-state money has funded proposals that have only narrowly passed. He said a higher threshold would encourage grassroots initiatives.

Democrats say the initiative petitions are a result of a GOP-controlled legislature that isnt responsive to the majority will of residents.

Rep. Robert Sauls, an Independence Democrat, sees the push to overhaul the initiative petition an attack on democracy. The initiative petition process, which requires gathering thousands of signatures across the state, is already a lengthy and cumbersome process, he said.

The reality is a lot of these issues are coming through and getting passed because the legislature is not doing it, Sauls said.

I mean, some of the stuff that we argue in this building and some of the things that come out, are, you know, just not what the people want.
The best burger might be the next burger.

So its best to eat with our hearts open.

For more than a decade the Great American Burger has been in a constant state of shape-shifting, growing trendy and decadent, taller then thinner, saucy then simple  all pushing and pulling this classic dish every which way imaginable.

Two years ago, in a News & Observer poll, Raleigh said the citys best burger was at a brewery: the Belgian-styled Neuse River Brewery.

Food is generally an after-thought at breweries, if its thought of at all. But in recent years some of the Triangles top breweries have added dining options well beyond pub grub.

Neuse River might be at the top of that class, serving ambitious food and dishes like steamed mussels, seared duck breast and a seasonal risotto. The burger might be the most casual thing on the menu, but its also the most popular, according to its creator, chef and Neuse River co-owner Steve Jankowski.

Built in a warehouse on the edge of a neighborhood, Neuse River captures the arc of brewery development trends, taking over industrial spaces and turning them into local bars. Neuse River Brewing opened in 2015, moving into a Five Points East neighborhood in Raleigh where charming residential streets blend into commercial warehouses now filled with breweries and a doughnut shop.

A burger with a point of view

Inspired by bars and pubs in Europe, co-owner Ryan Kolarov said Neuse River added a kitchen with greater ambitions than just snacks to share while drinking. After two years of rotating food trucks, the brewery added a brasserie, building a kitchen behind the bar, with a large silver hood flanked by tall windows.

Instead of nachos theres a roast chicken, instead of counter service there are servers. Instead of a burger meant for everyone, theres a burger with a point of view.

Neuse Rivers burger is based on Jankowskis taste, the chef said in 2021, a burger built with a European sensibility, largely rejecting the formality of vegetables in favor of pure rich flavor.

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Its a true restaurant burger: a thick patty griddled on a slick flat-top, standing out from the trendy smashburgers of today and even the smoky grilled burgers from a backyard.

Its just something people are familiar with, if they cant decide on any other options, theyre probably comfortable with a burger, Jankowski said in 2021. I put everything I like on burgers into it.

The Neuse River Burger Taste Test

On this Sunday afternoon, an end-of-April thunderstorm rumbled through and soaked the patio outside while wrapping the brewery in a gray cloud.

Diners trickled in with their shirts pulled high over their shoulders, choosing to make a run for it in the rain rather than loiter another moment in their cars.

The biggest surprise was seeing tables with no beers or burgers. Diners were there simply for brunch, called to a brewery by eggs Benedict and shrimp and grits, not a heady Belgian tripel in the afternoon.

Looking to keep it on the light side, I ordered the basic lager called Locals Only which arrived so pale and straw-colored youd think it was a Mic Ultra. But instead of bland fizz, this was a rich, crispy beer tasting toasted and light.

But we were there for a burger.

Alas, the Neuse River fryer was broken on the Sunday afternoon we stopped in. Our server returned to deliver the news and ask if I wanted home fries or a salad. I didnt fully grasp what a broken fryer would mean for the Neuse River burger until it arrived, suddenly realizing that the famed mound of crispy onion straws had to be omitted.

But for me, this was a familiar burger. For 20 years I ordered every burger plain with cheese, uninterested and afraid of what mustard and onions might do to me. Shying away from flavor and texture, I was the most dreaded of all culinary restrictions: a picky eater. So this burger, while incomplete, was an old friend.

The cheese on my burger looked like a scoop of ice cream quickly melting on a July blacktop, spreading across the patty as a gooey mound studded with mustard seeds. The toasted bun was smeared with garlicky aioli and the burger itself was charred black and glistening with grease. There were pickles, sour and sharp, there for crunch and to cut ever so slightly through the richness.

But even before the first bite, this burger was always tinged with wonder of what could have been. When there are really only a handful of ingredients, missing the crunchy, savory onion straws left me with more than a side of FOMO.

When reviewing restaurants for The News & Observer, former dining critic Greg Cox would have at least three meals before rendering a verdict. Because sometimes you have the greatest burger in the world. And sometimes the fryer is broken.
The next phase of the battle against COVID-19 is beginning, and that means changes to pandemic response that will impact Charlotte and beyond.

The public health emergency in the United States will end soon, just days after the World Health Organization declared an end to the global emergency brought on by the virus thats killed millions since 2020.

While the coronavirus is still spreading and some things wont change, the moves do mean some aspects of the federal and international responses to the pandemic will be scaled back or end completely.

Heres what to know about how the end of COVID emergencies will affect life in North Carolina:

When does the COVID-19 public health emergency end?

The public health emergency in response to COVID-19 in the U.S. will expire at the end of the day on May 11, according to the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

President Joe Biden announced his plan to let the emergency end in January, the Associated Press reported.

The public health emergency was first declared in January 2020 by then-President Donald Trumps administration, per the AP, and has been extended multiple times since.

Friday, the WHO, the United Nations health agency, also declared an end to the global health emergency over the virus.

What does end of COVID-19 emergency mean?

There are significant flexibilities and actions that will not be affected by the end of the COVID emergency, the Health and Human Services department said in a statement, including access to COVID-19 vaccinations and certain treatments, such as Paxlovid and some telehealth flexibilities for folks on Medicare and Medicaid.

But some parts of the pandemic response will change.

The White House said Monday that the end of the national public health emergency on May 11 will also bring the end of COVID vaccine requirements for federal workers, federal contractors and foreign air travelers to the U.S., the AP reported.

The requirement for private insurance companies to cover COVID-19 tests without cost sharing, both for OTC and laboratory tests, will end too, per HHS, but coverage may continue if plans choose to continue to include it.

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Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in Part B will continue to have coverage without cost sharing for laboratory-conducted COVID-19 tests when ordered by a provider, but their current access to free over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests will end, HHS said.

The government may continue to distribute free COVID-19 tests from the Strategic National Stockpile through the United States Postal Service, states, and other community partners, but that will be dependent on supply and resources.

Some Medicare and Medicaid waivers and broad flexibilities for health care providers will also end, and the way that COVID-19 laboratory results and immunization data are reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will change.

Major Charlotte-area health care providers  including Atrium Health, Novant Health, CaroMont Health, Cone Health and Randolph Health  announced in a joint statement in late March they were ending mask requirements in hospitals, citing declining COVID cases and vaccine availability.
Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., arrives to speak with reporters at the Capitol in Washington, May 3, 2023. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

Should TikTok be banned? Should younger children be prevented from engaging with social media? Can the government make sure private information is secure? What about brand new artificial intelligence interfaces? Or should users be regulating themselves, leaving the government out of it?

Tech regulation has been gathering momentum on Capitol Hill amid concerns about Chinas ownership of TikTok and as parents are growing increasingly worried about the effects of social media on a post-pandemic mental health crisis. Noting that many young people are struggling, President Joe Biden said in his February State of the Union speech that its time to pass bipartisan legislation to impose stricter limits on the collection of personal data and ban targeted advertising to children.

We must finally hold social media companies accountable for the experiment they are running on our children for profit, Biden said.

Lawmakers have introduced a slew of bipartisan bills to regulate tech, and its one of the few major policy issues where Republicans and Democrats generally align, boosting hopes for compromise in a split Congress.

Still, any effort to take on the mammoth industry would face major obstacles. Technology companies have aggressively fought any federal interference, and they have operated for decades now without strict federal oversight, making any new rules or guidelines that much more complicated.

A look at some of the areas of potential regulation:

CHILDRENS SAFETY

Several House and Senate bills would try to make social media, and the internet in general, safer for children who will inevitably be online. Lawmakers cite numerous examples of teenagers who have taken their own lives after cyber bullying or died engaging in dangerous behavior encouraged on social media.

In the Senate, at least two competing bills are focused on childrens online safety. Legislation by Sens. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., approved by the Senate Commerce Committee last year would require social media companies to be more transparent about their operations and enable child safety settings by default. Minors would have the option to disable addictive product features and algorithms that push certain content.

The idea, the senators say, is that platforms should be safe by design. The legislation, which Blumenthal and Blackburn reintroduced last week, would also obligate social media companies to prevent certain dangers to minors  including promotion of suicide, disordered eating, substance abuse, sexual exploitation and other illegal behaviors.

A second bill introduced last month by four senators  Democratic Sens. Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Republican Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Katie Britt of Alabama  would take a more aggressive approach, prohibiting children under the age of 13 from using social media platforms and requiring parental consent for teenagers. It would also prohibit the companies from recommending content through algorithms for users under the age of 18.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has not weighed in on specific legislation but told reporters on Tuesday, I believe we need some kind of child protections on the internet.

Critics of the bills, including some civil rights groups and advocacy groups aligned with tech companies, say the proposals could threaten teens online privacy and prevent them from accessing content that could help them, such as resources for those considering suicide or grappling with their sexual and gender identity.

Lawmakers should focus on educating and empowering families to control their online experience, said Carl Szabo of NetChoice, a group aligned with Meta, TikTok, Google and Amazon, among other companies.

DATA PRIVACY

Bidens State of the Union remarks appeared to be a nod toward legislation by Sens. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Bill Cassidy, R-La., that would expand child privacy protections online, prohibiting companies from collecting personal data from younger teenagers and banning targeted advertising to children and teens. The bill, also reintroduced last week, would create a so-called eraser button allowing parents and kids to eliminate personal data, when possible.

A broader House effort would attempt to give adults as well as children more control over their data with what lawmakers call a national privacy standard. Legislation that passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee with wide bipartisan support last year would try to minimize data collected and make it illegal to target ads to children, usurping state laws that have tried to put privacy restrictions in place. But the bill, which would have also given consumers more rights to file lawsuits over privacy violations, never reached the House floor.

Prospects for the House legislation are unclear now that Republicans have the majority. House Energy and Commerce Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash.., has made the issue a priority, holding several hearings on data privacy. But the committee has not yet moved forward with a new bill.

TIKTOK BAN/CHINA

Lawmakers introduced a raft of bills to either ban TikTok or make it easier to ban it after a combative March House hearing in which lawmakers from both parties grilled TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew over his companys ties to Chinas communist government, data security and harmful content on the app.

Chew attempted to assure lawmakers that the hugely popular video-sharing app prioritizes user safety and should not be banned due to its Chinese connections. But the testimony gave new momentum to the efforts.

Soon after the hearing, Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican, tried to force a Senate vote on legislation that would ban TikTok from operating in the United States. But he was blocked by a fellow Republican, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, who said that a ban would violate the Constitution and anger the millions of voters who use the app.

Another bill sponsored by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida would, like Hawleys bill, ban U.S. economic transactions with TikTok, but it would also create a new framework for the executive branch to block any foreign apps deemed hostile. His bill is cosponsored by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., and Mike Gallagher, R-Wis.

There is broad Senate support for bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, D-Va., and South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Senate Republican, that does not specifically call out TikTok but would give the Commerce Department power to review and potentially restrict foreign threats to technology platforms.

The White House has signaled it would back that bill, but it is unclear if it will be brought up in the Senate or if it could garner support among House Republicans.

TikTok has launched an extensive lobbying campaign for its survival, including by harnessing influencers and young voters to argue that the app isn't harmful.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

A newer question for Congress is whether lawmakers should move to regulate artificial intelligence as rapidly developing and potentially revolutionary products like AI chatbot ChatGPT begin to enter the marketplace and can in many ways mimic human behavior.

Senate leader Schumer has made the emerging technology a priority, arguing that the United States needs to stay ahead of China and other countries that are eyeing regulations on AI products. He has been working with AI experts and has released a general framework of what regulation could look like, including increased disclosure of the people and data involved in developing the technology, more transparency and explanation for how the bots arrive at responses.

Schumer said any eventual regulation should prevent potentially catastrophic damage to our country while simultaneously making sure the U.S. advances and leads in this transformative technology.

The White House has been focused on the issue as well, with a recent announcement of a $140 million investment to establish seven new AI research institutes. Vice President Kamala Harris met Thursday with the heads of Google, Microsoft and other companies developing AI products.
WASHINGTON  A woman who stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6 while wearing a pink beret and was recently identified to the FBI by an ex-romantic partner was charged with four federal counts Monday.

As NBC News first reported, an ex identified Jennifer Inzunza Vargas Geller of California and reported her to the FBI after the bureau featured her in a viral tweet last month. She faces four misdemeanor counts: entering or remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building, disorderly conduct in the Capitol grounds or buildings and unlawfully parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building. She was not in custody Monday, a law enforcement source said, but there is now a warrant out for her arrest.

For more than two years, online sleuths who identified hundreds of participants in connection with the attack on Jan. 6, 2021, had been unable to determine Vargas Geller's identity, and the woman they dubbed #PinkBeret had been the subject of online conspiracy theories. An attorney for another Jan. 6 defendant suggested she was working at the behest of the government.

But the last weekend of April, a clothing designer Vargas Geller used to date was standing in the checkout line at a Joann Fabric and Crafts store when his buddy showed him a funny tweet from the FBI's Washington field office on his phone.

Jennifer Vargas outside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C.)

Hes always on Twitter, and he said something like, Yo, check out this chick,'" the designer said.I stopped dead in my tracks, he said. Im like, Thats Jenny.

While most recent tweets from the Washington field office account had received a few thousand views, the tweet featuring Vargas Geller racked up millions. Twitter users dubbed her Insurrection Eva Braun and fascist Matilda and compared her to April Ludgate, the character played by Aubrey Plaza in NBCs Parks and Recreation. Several users joked that she seemed straight out of a Wes Anderson movie, and one user tweeted Emily in-carceration, referring to the show Emily in Paris.

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Vargas Geller was charged 11 days after the viral tweet, which is an extremely quick turnaround compared to other Jan. 6 cases. Online sleuths have identified hundreds of additional Capitol riot participants who have not been charged, some of whom were first IDed more than two years ago, in 2021.

Jennifer Vargas outside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C.)

Vargas Geller was from Sacramento, the clothing designer said, and she went to meet him in Los Angeles in early 2019, when they were in their early 20s. We werent, like, trying to get married or anything, he said. We were hooking up for a few months.

But there was a red flag that sparked a breakup: Vargas Geller, he said, wrote on Discord that she was reading Adolf Hitlers 1925 manifesto.

I was just instantly turned off, like, Yo, I dont think this is going to work out, he said. Youre, like, reading Mein Kampf. You think immigrants dont deserve X, Y, Z. (A social media account linked to Vargas Geller, viewed by NBC News, also referred to Hitler.)

Vargas Geller could not be reached for comment.

Kira West, the defense attorney for Jan. 6 defendant Darrell Neely, who suggested "Pink Beret" was working as a government agent, said after Vargas Geller was identified that the government should have tried to ID her sooner.

Our question is why they werent looking sooner when we brought it to their attention long ago? Especially with Mr. Neelys liberty on the line, West said.

Jennifer Vargas outside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C.)

Vargas Geller's ex knew she had traveled to Washington and asked her whether she was on the no fly list in a message he wrote to her a few days after the attack.

Nope, cause I didnt go into the [Capitol], she wrote, despite extensive video evidence later viewed by NBC News and cited in Monday's affidavit that the FBI says shows her inside the building.

But you still crossed state lines to riot, he replied.

I was there to support the president. Not to partake in that riot. I support the police, Vargas Geller responded on Jan. 10, 2021, in a conservation shared with NBC News.

Jennifer Vargas inside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (U.S. District Court for Washington, D.C.)

Federal prosecutors have charged more than 1,000 people in connection with the Capitol attack, and hundreds of additional participants who have been identified have not yet been arrested.

Most defendants who face charges similar to Vargas Gellers have received either probation or short sentences of incarceration. The longest sentence  more than 14 years in federal prison  went to a violent rioter with an extensive criminal record.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
When the lights went out, Naomi Dix thought shed missed a stage cue.

She worked through the production notes in her head: she was introducing the third act, which was meant to start with a blackout. But it shouldnt have happened while she was speaking.

Later would come the revelation that the countys power substations had been shot up by suspects who, five months later, still have not been identified. Then would come the months of harassment and death threats to the drag performers whod come to Southern Pines on the night 45,000 people lost power.

But in that moment, Dixs sole concern as a seasoned drag queen was the captive crowd in the pitch-black theater.

Backstage, waiting for the music to kick in, her bodyguard told her the power was out. (The venue hired 30 after the protests.) He radioed the snipers on the roof, who reported back that all the buildings had gone dark. There were no lights on in Moore County.

She went back onstage and the guards followed, flanking her on all sides  already worried that the outage could be part of something larger, something potentially violent.

The mic was out, so she yelled to the hundreds of guests in a voice honed through nearly 10 years as a drag queen.

Do you want the show to continue?

The answer was a resounding yes.

She couldnt sing alone, not loud enough for everyone to hear, so she told the crowd to join her in singing Beyonces Halo. As she performed what may now be the most infamous show of her career, the audience lit the theater with their phones, illuminating Dix in the glow of over 300 individual spotlights.

It was like looking into a sky of nothing but stars, she said.

Kind of scared me

Naomi Dix  three-time drag pageant winner, member of the Triangles premier drag family: The House of Coxx and the self-described Pink Afro-Latinx Barbie of N.C.  was terrified of drag queens when she first saw one at 16.

These are like really tall people with deep voices and hair and makeup with really big breasts and really exaggerated hips and corsets and high heels, she laughed, lounging in a plush chair at Queenys bar in Durham. It kind of scared me, and it scared me not because I thought that they were like bad people. It scared me because I was uneducated in knowing who they were and why they were doing what it was that they were doing.

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Shed just run away from home to New Orleans, moving in with a much older boyfriend and fleeing unsupportive parents in Raleigh.

She remembers what her mom said to her on the phone after she ran away: You will need us before we need you.

It turned out to be true.

When the initial excitement of running away and connecting with her community for the first time faded, the reality of the abusive nature of her relationship set in.

At the time, you think its really cool, she said. Like Im 16, Im staying with a German guy, hes super hot, he has a business, he lives in New Orleans right off the French Quarter  and then you realize when youre older, That was actually illegal.

After nearly six months away from home, Dix returned to Raleigh.

The Megabus dropped her off at an empty home where she sat on the doorstep until her mother, who worked as a prison guard, arrived. Her mom silently unlocked the door and let her inside. The first words she said to her, three days later, were, You know what time you need to be up for school, right?

LGBT community says concerns in aftermath of Moore County protests go beyond a drag show

LGBTQ protests and policies

Dix spoke about her life during a time when LGBTQ people are facing protests and policies that could prohibit them from doing what they love, and face criminal penalties.

In this legislative session, Republicans in the North Carolina General Assembly have introduced a number of bills aimed at the LGBTQ community. The state Senate passed the Parents Bill of Rights, which would ban curriculum relating to sexual orientation or gender identity in grades K-3 and require teachers to tell parents if their child changes their name or pronouns.

Both chambers of the legislature passed bills aiming to prohibit transgender women from playing womens sports, and several Republicans introduced a bill that would ban any drag performances in public or in the presence of a minor. While that bill failed to advance, it could still be revived.

Dix tells her stories with the bluntness and levity one might expect from a drag queen: recognizing their importance but indulging very little in selfpity.

Shes just returned from weeks of traveling to speak at conferences and perform across the country. Shes even grown a beard  a consequence of not being in drag for two weeks, she says. Dix is not transgender, but she keeps her male identity private and strictly separated from her drag. Only a few people in her life have even seen what she looks like out of drag.

Its nothing to do with fear, she said. I just like the mystery. I like that it sets drag apart from anything else.

For a long time, though, the privacy was more of a practical necessity.

When Dix returned from New Orleans, her relationship with her parents was difficult. They didnt speak about her running away, pretending to live a life where their son never fled and wasnt gay.

When Dix found drag, it added another layer to the distance between her and her family: a bright pink bow around the closet shed been put back into.

The hiding and the inconvenience were worth it, though. Drag, which had at first scared and confused her, became the most intimate family she had.

She never intended to do drag, of course  she never really liked it to begin with. None of the drag queens looked like her  they were all white.

That was until a friend took her to The Pinhook in Durham for the first time.

My name is Vivica (expletive) C. Coxx and I am Black and I am educated, the queen who took the stage said. She was wrapped in a custom-made dress in the style of a baseball uniform, with a bedazzled bat to match.

I looked at my friends and I said, OK, yes! Im about this life, Dix said.

Coxx, the eponymous founder of the House of Coxx and Dixs longtime drag mother, did something different than the queens shed seen before. Her show had lipsyncing and dancing and jokes, of course  but it was also about education. She started her set by talking about consent, preaching safe and respectful sex to the crowd.

Educated doesnt mean that you went to university, it just means educated in a way that you are aware of the space that you take, you are aware of who you are as a person, youre aware of the platform that you possess  and she was aware of all of those things, Dix said. And so I felt so peaceful, and I felt so heard and seen as a person of color.

Not long after, Dix began her own drag career, entering an amateur contest hosted by Coxx.

She was so worried about being seen in drag that she booked a hotel room to get ready in. She still remembers her outfit, picked out for her by the gay salesman at Forever 21 who immediately guessed that she was a drag queen: tight black shorts, a lace cream leotard with spaghetti straps, far-too-tall heels and gold jewelry  she had to superglue the earrings to her unpierced ears.

That night, Dix performed to Beyonces Partition, wobbling on The Pinhooks tall stage in her cheap heels. It was terrifying, but it also felt like an experience shed been waiting for her whole life.

It felt like I was honestly, truthfully who Ive always wanted to be, Dix said. Not even as a drag artist, but just as a person  as a human.

Drag artist Naomi Dix cries while talking about the Dec. 3rd performance at Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines, N.C. and the power outage in Moore County during a press conference at the Pinhook on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022, in Durham, N.C.

A focus on advocacy and education

Dix won the contest, and not long after Coxx was asking her to be part of something she was starting. The House of Coxx was going to be more than a drag family who just performed together  this was going to be a drag house focused on advocacy and education.

Dix had never really considered herself to be an advocate, but she resonated with Coxxs message. Shed never spent much time thinking about LGBTQ+ issues, but soon she found herself speaking about trans rights and raising money for queer youth.

Though shed never expected to be a drag performer, much less a community advocate, she took to the role with an intensity and dedication that shocked her drag sister, Stormie Daie.

I dont remember meeting Naomi, but I remember all of the complications she brought, Daie joked.

Daie remembers seeing Dix bring massive plastic tubs of clothes to shows, taking up entire dressing rooms with gowns and makeup and her endless entourage of friends.

While unsure of each other at first, the two quickly became friends after a Valentines Day show where they accidentally picked the same Beyonce song  forcing them to perform together.

As she found her place in the family, Dix dominated the Triangle drag scene, winning Miss Hispanidad NC in 2017 and bringing shows to venues that had never even seen drag before.

I dont think anyone has more shows under her belt than Miss Naomi Dix, Daie said. Shes everywhere, girl. Shes an air sign  that girl is like the breeze.

Impact on relationship with family

Drag ended up being the final straw for Dixs relationship with her parents. Shed managed to keep it secret from them for four years. In the end, it was a YouTube clip sent to her sister that ended things.

Dix was in drag in the clip, doing an interview about her shows. The email from her mother came a few days after she saw it. It was filled with religious appeals: telling her how she had disobeyed God, of her imminent destruction in hell, her disappointment as a son.

Despite all the time spent teaching crowds about acceptance, Dix had learned that not all things could be solved with education. Some people cant change.

I can no longer be a part of this relationship, she wrote in a long message to her parents. Thank you for giving me the clothes on my back and the roof over my head and the food in my mouth and thank you for giving me life. I love you. And maybe well talk someday, but Im not banking on it right now.

They never responded, and nearly five years later it remains the last thing shes said to her parents. When Dix speaks about her parents now, she uses a familiar phrase:

Theyre going to need me before I need them.

Naomi Dix speaks during the Drag the Fascists rally at CCB Plaza in Durham, N.C., Saturday, April 1, 2023. The rally was to protest the anti-drag show bills being introduced in states across the country and celebrate Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual people.

Moore County protest

The thing that puzzles Dix about the backlash to the show in Moore County was that it was the fifth one shed performed there.

The House of Coxx was expanding its scope, bringing LGBTQ+ events and spaces to North Carolinians in areas with less queer visibility. Since 2021, Dix had hosted a variety of drag brunches and shows across the county, primarily in Southern Pines.

Something about the Downtown Divas showcase in December struck a nerve with people though. Some criticized the fact that the flyer didnt initially list an age limit  an addition the theater quickly made after backlash from the local Christian school.

Dix thinks it has more to do with the location. Shed booked the Sunrise Theater, a fixture of the community in Southern Pines, one the residents are fiercely protective of.

When I bring a whole multitude of people: myself, my cast, my team, my people, theyre like, Wait a minute, now youre starting to move into our territory, we have an issue with that, she said.

Dix knew that shed be walking into a volatile environment on the night of the show. A group of residents had organized a protest outside the venue, gaining national attention after the viral Libs of TikTok account tweeted about the show.

As I was driving through, I even said to my husband, This is the first time that Im going through Southern Pines and feel unsafe, she said.

Theyd planned for this, though. Community groups had chipped in to get bodyguards for every performer, extra security outside the venue and even snipers on the roof.

Performers entered the theater from a back entrance, escorted by security, but Dix went out front just before the show started. Split down the middle, two groups of people stood with signs in the neon glow of the Sunrise Theaters retro marquee.

On one side, around 40 protesters stood in opposition to the show. On the other side, a sea of pink (Dixs favorite color) cheered for the queen who brought drag to Moore County.

She came out and spoke to the pink side, to the ones who wanted her there.

I wanted them to see that when times like this happen, this is not a time for you to stay silent, this is a time for you to show up and show out, Dix said.

Five months later, law enforcement in Moore County have not said if the attacks were related to the drag show.

The investigation continues day in and day out, Richard Maness, chief deputy for the Moore County Sheriffs Office said. Anything that comes up, were looking into it, but I have no information about suspects.

Dix refrains from saying who she thinks the perpetrators were, but she said the events speak for themselves.

When were thinking about these attacks that have happened to marginalized communities, the answer is always the same, she said. The answer is always, Well, we dont think that it really had anything to do with that, and we dont really know what happened.

Dix has changed since Moore County, her friends say.

You can tell that shes working to keep things together, instead of just being together, Daie said. Shes putting in more effort to make sure that shes got what she needs.

Shes channeling the pain from Moore County and all the offenses that came before it into her work.

If advocacy had been an essential component of Dixs drag before, its now the primary directive. Shes spending her time fighting the hundreds of anti-trans bills that have been filed and passed in legislatures across the country.

On a rainy Saturday morning in Durham, Dix shuffles through CCB Plaza in fluffy slippers, waiting on her husband (she married in 2020) to bring her heels. The beard is gone and replaced with foundation and highlight. She blinks in the rain through three-inch-long eyelashes and adjusts the long blonde hair resting on her black dress.

Once the tents are set up and rainbow umbrellas have been distributed to the dozens of attendees, Dix speaks to the crowd thats gathered in protest of Tennessees bill to restrict drag performances in public.

Could you imagine how much of a difference it would make if we were to tell someone today that we love them, she said. If we were just to let people know that it is okay and there is nothing wrong, and that you will not be put in danger by simply being yourself.

UNC Media Hub is a collection of students in the Hussman School of Journalism and Media who create integrated multimedia packages covering stories from around North Carolina.
Drew Barrymore poked fun at her viral 2022 rain video in a sketch for this years MTV TV & Movie Awards.

The actor  who was pegged to host the ceremony  filmed a number of sketches for the event, which was pre-recorded after the ongoing Hollywood writers strike led to the live shows cancellation.

Find a full list of this years winners here.

In a skit featuring Jenna Ortegas Wednesday Addams, Barrymore appeared in the Netflix show standing in the rain, arms open.

Whenever you can go out into the rain do not miss the opportunity! the talk show host yelled, mimicking her Instagram post from last year, which saw her gleefully revelling in a downpour.

The weather then turns to hail in the clip, which she proclaims hurts so good!

Finally, the ET star is struck by lightning... twice, and asks Thing to call for an ambulance.

Thing, I just had an ELECTRIFYING vision   #MTVAwards pic.twitter.com/8DFPKRquiM  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

At the time, Barrymore said she had no idea her joyful video would go viral.

I dont know, it was just a moment, she explained. I do love the rain and I do love running out in it.

She continued: We stop ourselves from the spontaneity and rain is for everybody and I love things that are for everyone.

Elsewhere in the ceremony, Barrymore won the fan-voted award for Best Host for her eponymous Drew Barrymore Show.

She, like Jennifer Coolidge, used the opportunity to support the striking Writers Guild of America members.

In another sketch, Barrymore reprised her role as Josie Grossie from 1999s Never Been Kissed.

Since the WGA began protesting over unfair wages on 2 May, dozens of shows and movies have been affected. Find a list of all those affected here.

To learn more about why Hollywood writers are striking, read here and find out all the celebrities who have joined the picket lines here.
Police on Monday announced the driver in a deadly crash at a bus stop near a shelter for migrants in Brownsville, Texas, has been charged with multiple counts of manslaughter.

Eight people were killed and at least 10 were injured when an SUV plowed into a crowd around 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The driver, 34-year-old George Alvarez, was charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection to the crash, Brownsville police Chief Felix Sauceda said at a Monday news conference.

Here's what to know about the collision:

Emergency personnel respond to a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Several migrants were killed after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter.

Who is the driver?

Sauceda said Alvarez is a Brownsville resident with an "extensive rap sheet" and his total bond was set at $3.6 million. He said police are still waiting to get the results of a toxicology report.

Investigator Martin Sandoval said Sunday the driver was injured when the vehicle rolled over and there were no passengers in the car. Sandoval said Alvarez was "very uncooperative" at the hospital and gave multiple names before investigators were able to identify him.

Police are still investigating the cause of the crash.

Sandoval said Sunday there are three possible explanations for the crash: It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two."

Who are the victims?

Sauceda said most of the victims were Venezuelan and all of them were men. They had spent the night at the shelter and were waiting for the bus to return to downtown Brownsville, according to Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.

Brownsville, the easternmost border crossing into Mexico, issued a disaster declaration last month after 15,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, crossed over in a single week, overwhelming border security. The Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center is the only overnight shelter in the city and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody.

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Sauceda said police are working with the Venezuelan government and other countries' embassies.

"We will work with our network and supporters to ensure reunification efforts and victim assistance is made available to all affected," he said.

What happened during the crash?

Sauceda said police received reports of a major crash around 8:30 a.m. Sunday and found "multiple casualties and several injured," a gray SUV with "heavy damage" and a driver at the scene.

He said Alvarez ran a red light and lost of control of his vehicle, which flipped on its side striking 18 people. Six people died at the scene and 12 were critically injured before fatalities later rose to eight, according to police.

Sauceda said Alvarez attempted to flee and was restrained by bystanders at the scene.

Luis Herrera, who was hit by the vehicle and hospitalized with a broken arm, told The Washington Post the driver yelled insults and taunted people at the bus stop before the crash. When asked about witness reports that the driver cursed at the victims before the crash, which was captured on surveillance footage, Sauceda said "we have nothing to validate that at this point."

Dig deeper

'Theres an element of terrorism there': Cars hit demonstrators 104 times during George Floyd protests

Live updates: Authorities investigate whether Texas mall shooter was motivated by ideology

More: 8 dead, 10 injured after driver slams SUV into crowd near migrant center in Brownsville, Texas

Contributing: John Bacon and Jorge Ortiz, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brownsville, Texas, crash: George Alvarez charged with manslaughter
A driver fleeing troopers at around 100 mph swerved and slammed through the side of a church, video from the Florida Highway Patrol shows.

Troopers began pursuing the vehicle after it ran a stop sign early in the morning on May 7 in Plant City, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol.

The vehicle then started traveling on the wrong side of the road and failed to stop at a second stop sign, the report says.

Troopers continued to pursue as the vehicle ran multiple other stop signs, according to the report. It turned onto State Road 60, an east-west highway that crosses Florida from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, and reached speeds of around 100 mph.

The vehicle ran a red light and then attempted to turn right onto a road when it swerved off the highway and crashed into a church, the report says.

Dash cam video from the Florida Highway Patrol shows the car veering off the road and crashing its entire front end into the church.

The trooper yelled at the driver to get out of the vehicle, the report says. The driver, later identified as, Damian Alfonso Rios, 25, started using foul language toward the trooper and a deputy, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

First responders brought Rios to a hospital for an evaluation. He later submitted to a breath test, and his blood alcohol content was determined to be 0.132 and 0.133 percent, the report says.

He was arrested and charged with reckless driving, fleeing from law enforcement at high speeds, driving under the influence and careless driving, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

He was later released on a $8,500 surety bond, according to Hillsborough County jail records.

Johanna Zambrano, the daughter of the pastor of the church, Iglesia Dios Con Nosotros, told WFLA that the congregation was praying for Rios.

We dont wish anything for this guy but for him to get better, she told the outlet. For him to maybe look for God, look for Jesus.

Plant City is about 25 miles northwest of Tampa.

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Two teens killed after prom when their car gets pinned underneath semi, AL reports say

Stolen car flips sideways into embankment as teens flee police, Washington cops say

Customer rams SUV into Popeyes over missing biscuits, nearly hitting worker, GA cops say
The mill stands on the spot where rocks were first ground into pigment around 1646

Every morning for the last 42 years, Piet Kempenaar has cast a careful eye over the Dutch sky before releasing a brake and "steering" the giant blades of his centuries-old mill into the wind.

To match the force, he adjusts the sails of De Kat (The Cat), the world's last remaining mill using wind power to crush rocks into fine dust and make paint pigment -- just as it was done almost 400 years ago.

Driven by a system of wooden gears, ropes and pulleys, two massive grinding stones together weighing 10 tonnes churn and crush rocks for hours on end, until they become colourful pigments with enticing names like lapis lazuli, terre verte, umber and burnt sienna.

Now retired and leaving most of the paint-making business to his son Robert, Kempenaar still cuts the quintessential figure of a seasoned Dutch "colourman" in a cap, blue workman's jacket streaked with pigment dust, and a pipe angled in the corner of his mouth.

Behind him, De Kat, standing on the spot where rocks were first ground into pigment around 1646, creaks and groans as the four giant blades power the grinding stones in a never-ending circle.

The original mill burnt down in 1782 before being rebuilt. De Kat has been reconstructed and repurposed over the centuries for a variety of roles including a chalk storage space at one stage, before resuming its rock-crushing duties in 1960.

Kempenaar has leased De Kat from the local milling association since 1981 for his pigment-making business, which attracts thousands of buyers every year.

"I am not interested in painting, but I am obsessed with pigments," the 73-year-old Kempenaar told AFP at the famous mill in the picturesque but tourist-heavy Zaanse Schans north of Amsterdam.

- 'King of the blue' -

In his rugged hands, Kempenaar holds a block of a famous blue pigment favoured by a Dutch master.

"Here we have the king of the blue. It's a half-diamond from Chile or Afghanistan. You're talking about lapis lazuli, used by Johannes Vermeer," he said.

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"Vermeer had the money -- he could pay for it. Back then, this was literally worth its weight in gold".

Dozens of pigments made at De Kat are neatly stacked on shelves -- terre verte or "green earth" from Verona, dark umber from Cyprus and carmine red, made from grinding up female cochineal insects, from the Canary Islands.

"We grind pigment the old way here. That's why people from all over the world come to buy from us. It's unique," Kempenaar said.

"And it hasn't changed in almost 400 years."

Art experts say many of the pigments used by Dutch masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt almost certainly came from "dye mills" dotted around the Dutch landscape at the time.

This includes the precious lapis lazuli which produced the ultramarine blue paint for the apron of Vermeer's famous work The Milkmaid.

Today, De Kat is the last link to the original way of paint-making before the process was industrialised around 1850, experts say.

- 'Step back in time' -

At Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, some 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) to the south of the Zaanse Schans, art lecturer Peter Pelkmans has been preparing a paste of lapis lazuli and linseed oil to make ultramarine blue paint.

At the museum's Teekenschool (Drawing School) workshop, amateurs and artists alike can learn how to prepare paint the traditional way using De Kat's pigment.

"We give people a chance to take a step back in time," Pelkmans told AFP before mixing another colour, this time a burnt sienna, much loved by Rembrandt.

Rembrandt was known to grind most of his own pigment in a giant iron mortar in his studio and used a cheaper alternative called "smalt" as a substitute for the precious and more expensive lapis lazuli.

Vermeer's ultramarine blue pigment was however made from lapis lazuli, almost certainly ground in a windmill, Pelkmans said.

He explained just how precious the prized colour was.

"Often the blue was left as the last part of a commissioned painting. The artist would only add it once he had been paid in full," Pelkmans laughed.

jhe/lcm
Race made it clear why electing judges is a bad idea

It has become increasingly clear why many if not most states, as well as the drafters of the U.S. Constitution in the case of federal judges, have concluded that electing judges is a bad idea.

Politicians not knowing or caring about the quality of judges have hijacked the judicial branch. Supreme Court candidates must take overtly partisan positions to attract money and votes.

In the lower courts, where judges are appointed to fill mid-term vacancies and required to stand for immediate election, (former Gov Scott) Walker-appointed judges in progressive districts and (Gov. Tony) Evers-appointed judges in conservative districts have been successfully targeted (as I was) not based on judicial performance but rather by political parties eager to weaponize the judiciary for political gain.

As a result, good candidates without a partisan agenda, if they are willing to seek a judicial seat at all in such an environment, have no chance of winning. The legal system is worse for it.

It is time for judges in Wisconsin to be appointed on the basis of competence through the use of a bi-partisan commission and retention elections (as many other states do and as advanced by prominent judicial voices such as Sandra Day OConnor), rather than contested elections.

Hon. Jeffrey Davis (retired), Mequon

Supreme Court candidate Janet Protasiewicz (center) holds hands with Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Dallet (far left) and Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley (right of Protasiewicz) at Protasiewiczs election night watch party for state Supreme Court at Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. Wisconsin voters headed to the polls for the spring general election to determine a new justice on the Supreme Court as well as other local, nonpartisan offices. Protasiewicz is facing off against Daniel Kelly for a spot on Wisconsin's top court.

Election an embarrassment for 'progressive' state

There has got to be a better way! I am talking about the way Wisconsin selects its Supreme Court justices.

The recent election for the Wisconsin Supreme Court was an embarrassment to a state that once thought of itself as progressive. These elections are supposed to be non-partisan; they are not. They are supposed to be conducted at a high level because they deal with the courts; they are not.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court race saw more than $28.8 million spent on ads, surpassing the national record for these kinds of elections. The ads, particularly on TV, were mudslinging at its worst on both sides. As voting citizens, we should be appalled by the way the candidates ran their campaigns. We can do better in Wisconsin.

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No system will be perfect, but Wisconsin should consider another method of selecting Supreme Court justices. It is time for change in Wisconsin.

Robert J. DeRoche, Greendale

State Bar Association should recommend judicial candidates

Negative campaign tactics work. Or do they?

Advisors to campaigns underestimate the intelligence of the independent voter. The recent Supreme Court election activity should never have been shaped the way it was. The non-party affiliated voter wants to know why to vote for a candidate  educational background and experience are the basis for our decisions, not alarmism.

Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate Daniel Kelly concedes the race to Janet Protasiewicz during an election night gathering Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at the Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center in Green Lake, Wis. The national implications of the race have drawn unprecedented donations from across the country. Supreme Court seats are officially nonpartisan but candidates run as conservatives or liberals with campaigns that are backed by the state's political parties.

In my former state, the professional bar associations suggested qualified Supreme Court nominees, thus limiting partisan politics from a non-partisan office.

Maybe the two party system should respect their responsibility for a fair and honest appraisal of the candidates. If this concept is acceptable, it should also pertain to timely review of all nominees.

Dick Dieffenbach, Cedarburg

Tougher libel laws a fix for disgusting ads, but only a dream

The elections for Wisconsin Supreme Court justices have become a sorry reflection of our dysfunctional politics and the amount and tone of the negative advertising this election was disgusting.

The money spent this time was a record. The negative/misinformative ads were aimed at the ill-informed of the electorate and painted the opposing candidate soft on crime. The ads were everywhere. The money was aimed at putting into office judges with ideologies and biases that favor contributors.

I think the solutions are simple but impossible at the same time. If we want judges who will handle cases free of political, ideological or monetary influence, we need government financed campaigns (free of the influence of powerful donors) and to subject political ads to the same libel laws that exist elsewhere.

But in this political climate thats an impossible dream.

Joseph Geck, Waukesha

Bar association vetting, ranked choice options could end rancor

Election campaigns should educate voters how a vote for a given candidate would make Wisconsin better. We need our legislature to pass campaign legislation which insists candidates only address their positions on issues and refrain from demonizing opponents.

The Wisconsin Bar Association should submit a list of the five best candidates who seek the Supreme Court vacancy. Those candidates ads can then be cleared for airing by the Wisconsin Election Commission using algorithms to screen out political partisanship and demeaning attacks on other candidates.

Supreme Court candidate Janet Protasiewicz looks at former Supreme Court Justice Dan Kelly during the debate Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at the State Bar Center located at 5302 Eastpark Blvd. Madison, Wis.

Ranked choice voting would determine the next Wisconsin Supreme Court justice. This would eliminate a primary election as voters rank their preference for the candidates first through fifth. If a candidate did not receive a majority of the vote, the second choice votes are added, followed by the third, fourth and fifth place votes until one candidate achieves the winning majority.

This plan would free the voter from false and misleading campaign advertising and provide a truthful portrait as to why a candidate is the best choice for a better Wisconsin. It also could be a template for all our elections, ending the rancor and character assassination that has become the norm in Wisconsins elections.

Jerry Hanson, Elkhorn

Call for fixing high court elections an impossible task

In the quest for a solution to the divisive and partisan ads and ginormous money spent on the latest State Supreme Court election, I dont think its possible.

The state of Wisconsin, with almost 5.9 million residents, seems closely divided, 50-50, when it comes to political parties. The word compromise is not in anyones vocabulary anymore.

Waukesha County Judge and Wisconsin Supreme Court nominee, Jennifer Dorow concedes the election as her husband Brian Dorow consoles their daughter Kiki next to her son Jonny (far right) at her primary election night watch party at the Golden Mast restaurant on Okauchee Lake in Okauchee on Tuesday.

The United States Supreme Court made it lawful for mega money donations; injecting, interfering and supporting wealthy partisanship on any and all state elections. The Constitution which separates the legislative, executive and judicial branches of our government so that none have over reaching powers has become a travesty of partisanship.

The Fourth and Fifth Estates print, publish, blog, televise etc. alternate facts, which now makes truth nonexistent at worst, questionable at best.

I am an independent voter. I sadly have no winning formula for people who refuse to listen to the opposition, who are not willing to give a little to get a little, who do not believe in separation of church and state. You have asked for the impossible.

Maureen Iglar, Oconomowoc

Two advertising techniques especially damaging in court races

I write to criticize two advertising techniques commonly used in Wisconsin judicial campaigns, including the recent Supreme Court primary and general election races. These techniques reflect poorly on the candidates who use them, as well as any voters whose votes are affected.

One is the attack on candidates who have served as judges based on a few of their cases cherry-picked from the thousands of cases they handled in their judicial careers. These attacks, with little or no context about the cases, are offered to argue that the judge was anywhere from stupid to soft on crime. Anyone who has practiced criminal law, as I did for 42 years, knows that criminal cases are complex and that reasonable people can disagree about the "best" result. To pretend otherwise is ignorant and/or panders to what the candidate hopes is the ignorance of the voting populace.

The other technique is an attack on a candidate because they have represented defendants accused of terrible crimes. This attack implies that the candidate tolerates the crime or is somehow responsible for perpetuating it. Any judicial candidate knows or should know that it is a principle of the criminal justice system, and of the legal profession, that every defendant is entitled to effective representation. The lawyer who provides it upholds that principle and criticism for doing so is ignorant and/or disingenuous.

These common campaign techniques, which were used in our recent Supreme Court elections, will not end until the candidates develop some integrity or until the voters understand and reject the brainless and pandering nature of these techniques.

Mel Johnson, Whitefish Bay

With gerrymandering, need for electing Supreme Court members vital

The amount of money spent in the recent Supreme Court election was obscene. And it became very partisan. But, without the statewide election of justices, the peoples voices would be irrelevant, again.

Wisconsin votes have already been deluded for over a decade due to gerrymandering. Putting the appointment of justices in the hands of the governor and/or the gerrymandered legislature will only increase the partisanship and could result in a stalemate where no justice is appointed. Or, the gerrymandered majority could lock in the judiciary forever.

Unlike several other states, Wisconsin voters do not have the ability to introduce a ballot initiative. If Wisconsin had a process for a direct ballot initiative, a petition with the necessary acquired signatures would put the question to a statewide vote. Voters could then bypass the gerrymandered legislature and create, change or repeal laws. This would allow the public to actually vote on popular issues, such as nonpartisan redistricting, and finally end gerrymandering.

Even with all the flaws, we need to continue to elect Wisconsin Supreme Court justices. Giving the voters the ability to introduce ballot initiatives would also benefit democracy.

Carol Lenz, Appleton

From left, Wisconsin state Supreme Court candidates Waukesha County Judge Jennifer Dorow, former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Dan Kelly, Dane County Judge Everett Mitchell, and Milwaukee County Judge Janet Protasiewicz participate in a candidate forum at Monona Terrace in Madison, Wis. Monday, Jan. 9, 2023.

Election was ugly but ultimately voters had the final say

While the partisan nature of Wisconsins 2023 nonpartisan Supreme Court election was played up by both major political parties, the results suggest that candidates whose approach to jurisprudence makes the most sense to the general public are more likely to be granted the consent of the governed  political identities and partisan attacks notwithstanding.

The overall results also suggest that crime prevention and enforcement, abortion, work requirements for government assistance and legislative districting, among others, arent as partisan as some would think. Its becoming more and more difficult for partisans to come up with plausible wedge issues.

Nevertheless, acrimony and partisanship in nonpartisan judicial elections are byproducts of a two-party political system. When a party in power uses the courts as a means to solidify its own legislative power, the onus falls on those same courts to sort out disputes from the party that has been stripped of its legislative authority. Unfortunately, the acrimony and partisanship will continue until acrimonious partisans stop abusing the courts as a means to their own political ends.

Also, unfortunately, the big money will continue flowing until the elected officials who rely on it enact legislation to prevent it.

Gary Lyons, Kenosha

Talking more about families would have helped candidates

After more than three months of repetitive TV ads for both the primary in February and the April Supreme Court election, it is almost refreshing to return to the likes of normal repetitive commercials.

What stands out most to me, looking back to the race, is the fact that I cannot recall one ad and/or interview that made mention or showed the candidate with a family member, i.e., wife, husband, children, grandchildren. With abortion being of such prominent focus, I feel both Daniel Kelly and Janet Protasiewicz should have had some familial reference as part of their campaigns.

Lindsay Puetz inserts her ballot into the voting machine for the 2023 Wisconsin spring general election on Tuesday April 4, 2023 at Milwaukee Area Technical College Education Center at Walker Square in Milwaukee, Wis.

Both came across as qualified contenders but failed to display any personal trait that I, as a voter, could identify with.

Patricia Pomahac, Franklin

Stopping wealthy from buying elections would help

In the April 16 Ideas Lab, an appeal was made for letters on how to get big money and acrimony out of politics. On the same day, letter writer Phillip Torsrud mentions that working-class people dont have children because its too expensive (Articles on Milwaukee growth missed important points).

There two topics are directly related. Over four decades ago, the Reagan administration began a huge transfer of wealth from Americas working people to the billionaire class. Since then, tax cut after tax cut to Americas wealthiest has left the rest of us picking up the tab to make the billionaires richer still.

In turn, the wealthy spend hundreds of millions every election year to elect politicians who will further their interests and to convince working people to vote against their own. The U.S. Supreme Courts infamous Citizens United decision allows unlimited anonymous money to go to political action committees that create vicious attack ads which poison our democracys political discourse.

Income inequality is destroying Americas middle class, our democracy, and paving the way for political demagogues who spread fear rather than solve problems. The wealthy need to pay their share of taxes instead of buying corrupt politicians.

Steven Shea, Cudahy

Election the byproduct of gerrymandering, dark money, lies

Gerrymandering is legalized cheating. Dark money political donations are legalized corruption. Political ads filled with lies, distortions, distractions, misinformation and hateful opinions are First Amendment protected speech.

Acrimony and partisanship directly correlate to the frequency, duration and intensity of campaign ads. Fueled by big money and in defiance of the spirit of truth in advertising, these ads more accurately inflame rather than inform. Ignore them.

Supreme Court candidate Janet Protasiewicz reacts before speaking at her election night watch party for state Supreme Court at Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee on Tuesday, April 4, 2023. Wisconsin voters headed to the polls for the spring general election to determine a new justice on the Supreme Court as well as other local, nonpartisan offices. Protasiewicz is facing off against Daniel Kelly for a spot on Wisconsin's top court.

In reality the truth carries its own weight. It exists whether or not we see it, seek it, understand it or even value it. And truth, much like Covid-19, cares not about party affiliation, how much money one makes or who one loves.

Never vote for proven liar candidates who spinelessly enable, embrace or embolden one party affiliation. Loyalty based on lies represents the epitome of traitorous irresponsibility. The truth matters. Democracy and justice demand trust. Trust cant exist without truth.

The reputation of our courts and our country depend on honorable trustworthy men and women responsibly representing our best interests.

Jim Smole, Elm Grove

Stop electing judges to help put an end to acrimony

If Wisconsin sincerely wants to avoid the acrimony that raised its ugly head in the recent Wisconsin Supreme court election, it must eliminate elections altogether. Have all interested parties print the names of their qualified judges (that, in and of itself would be debatable) on lottery balls and drop them into the Wisconsin lottery machine. Anyone can participate, but a specific name must be added only once. Turn on the mixing machine, and the first name that gets spit out becomes the new Supreme Court justice.

It is unfortunate, but other than that there is probably no acceptable way to avoid the rancor. Even then, a segment of the population would insist that the process was somehow rigged.

For a large segment of the electorate, critical thinking is on life support, replaced by either inability or refusal to differentiate between truth and lies. Too many people hear only what they want to hear, and too many people have their minds made up ( dont confuse me with any supposed facts) making truth malleable and reality overwhelmed by fantasy.

R. Sterling, Menomonee Falls

Ending gerrymandering would help fix acrimony

The Supreme Court of Wisconsin is often asked to settle matters that are not resolved by the state legislature. The extremely gerrymandered Assembly and Senate districts have given us a legislature that does not represent the will and priorities of our citizens.

One important action to eliminate the acrimony of our recent election is to develop a more fair and more transparent method of drawing the district maps.

Michael Switzenbaum, Whitefish Bay

In the end, Republicans voted against own choice

Does our state need good politicians or good legislators? Is it more important to win seats or to get something done?

Wisconsin has an equal split of Democrats vs. Republicans voters, but gerrymandered district maps have given Republicans majority control over our government. This past election for Supreme Court judge resulted in a landslide win for a liberal judge. Some typically Republican voters must have decided to vote against their partys favored candidate.

Now the playing field can be made level and allow all Wisconsin voters to have an equal voice in our government. It is time to stop labeling each other and start listening to one another. We must recognize that a variety of opinions can exist, but fact is fact and truth is truth.

Money has the power to corrupt individuals and institutions. Dark money must not be allowed in our politics. Perhaps we can set a limit on how much money a candidate can spend on an election. Voters should be made aware of the source of each candidates funding.

In the end, we owe it to ourselves and each other to vote for candidates that will work for us instead of working to raise money for their next election.

Susan Swoboda, Whitewater

Getting money, fear out of the picture would help

One side fights for inclusion for all groups, while the other to save our culture. With the advent of social media, a vast percentage of us spend much time in our own, often ugly, echo chamber.

If, somehow, we could sit at the table and discuss our fears, aspirations and goals, then maybe wed see that we want many of the same things. Big money, acrimony and partisanship, it doesnt matter which issue you blame because theyre all fear-based. Each group fears what the other represents, whether its flying a confederate flag or a rainbow. Its so easy to get us humans rattled.

If it were possible, the best starting point would be getting big money out of the picture. Less negative ads, anger, acrimony, extremism, means less fear. Then maybe we can truly see others. History reveals many societies that became lost in fear. Fear the other, vilify the other, then attack violently. If we follow that path, how can we ever see the real candidate him/herself?

Theres only one way to fix it. Its bigger than the Court. We need a responsive legislature. We need to vote out those who dont work for the people. We are their employer.

George Wen, Delavan

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Letter writers offer ideas on fixing Wisconsin Supreme Court elections.
A federal jury begins deliberations Tuesday in E. Jean Carroll's rape and defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump, a day after attorneys for both sides made final arguments in the high-profile case that could cost the former president millions in damages.

In asking the jury to find Trump liable for a rape in 1996, Carroll attorney Roberta Kaplan said: "He thinks he can get away with it here."

Attorneys for Trump, who claims that the 1996 incident never happened, told the jury that Carroll failed to make her case. They said the plaintiff made up the story for financial gain and political revenge against the former president.

Trump attorney Joe Tacopina called the allegations an affront to justice," and urged jurors to reject them.

A deeper look E. Jean Carroll was a trailblazing journalist before her defamation trial against Trump

Closing arguments

E. Jean Carroll, left, arrives at the courthouse Monday for final arguments in her defamation case against Donald Trump.

The legal team for Carroll, a professional writer, used closing arguments to again lay out their basic case: that Trump suddenly attacked her shortly after the two met at a Bergdorf Goodman department store in New York City.

Kaplan did not ask the jury for a specific damage amount, saying her client only wants her good name back. During the trial, an expert witness called by the plaintiff's legal team estimated the damages to Carroll's reputation at up to $2.7 million.

Attorneys for Carroll repeatedly reminded jurors that Trump refused to testify during the trial, a fact that the jury can take into account in assessing his liability. He didnt even bother to show up here in person, Kaplan said at one point.

Carroll, meanwhile, spent three days on the stand, including fierce cross-examination by Trump's legal team.

Trump's argument

During the defendant's closing arguments, Tacopina repeatedly echoed his client's claims that Carroll's story is false and designed only to hurt Trump politically. Tacopina said people have strong feelings about the former president, but the place to settle then is at the ballot box.

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The Trump attorney called on jurors to take "a journey to justice."

Trump doesn't testify

Trump, who was on a business trip, told reporters in Ireland last week that he planned to return to New York to confront the issue in court, though he made this claim just hours before his attorneys rested their case.

The judge in the case had given Trump until Sunday afternoon to apply to re-open the case for his testimony; Trump did not file anything.

Previous coverage E. Jean Carroll rests her rape case against Donald Trump; he denounces defamation trial as bogus

A civil case

This is not a criminal trial, but a civil one based on a lawsuit.

Carroll sued Trump for defamation, claiming he lied about the attack and damaged her reputation in the process.

Trump also faces a series of criminal investigations in the months ahead.

The other cases

Former President Donald Trump seen May 2 in Scotland.

In March, a grand jury in New York City indicted Trump on charges of falsifying business records to cover up up hush money payments to an ex-mistress named Stormy Daniels; prosecutors said the hush money, designed to buy Daniels' silence, amounted to an illegal campaign contribution. A trial is expected to be scheduled for early nest year.

Trump is also being investigated in three other cases: efforts to overturn his election loss in Georgia in 2020, the handling of classified documents, and the insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021, that tried to overturn the election nationally.

The cases How many legal cases does Donald Trump face? 2 DOJ investigations, a Georgia grand jury, NY charges and a lawsuit

The campaign

The verdict may have some sort of impact on Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, but it's hard to say how. He has a CNN town hall appearance scheduled for Wednesday in New Hampshire, and the New York jury could still be out at that time.

If anything, Trump's political position has improved among Republicans who will pick their presidential nominee in 2024. He remains the front-runner in the 2024 race over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, and ex-Vice President Mike Pence.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Report Dept. of Justice investigating Donald Trumps ties to LIV Golf amid larger probe

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: E. Jean Carroll v. Donald Trump: Attorneys make final arguments
Mauricio Garcia dressed in black tactical gear lay dead on a bloody pavement at the Allen Premium Outlets mall on Saturday after killing eight people and injuring seven. A few feet from his bloodied body lay a black AR-15-style weapon.

Texas is all too familiar with the AR-15. Only 10 days ago 39-year-old Francisco Oropeza walked into his neighbors house and killed five of them because they had earlier complained about him shooting his rifle in his front yard.





A year ago, the 18-year-old shooter who killed 19 students and two teachers at a Uvalde elementary school used two AR-15-style semi-automatic rifles. Salvador Ramos had posted photos of both guns on his Instagram account, one of which was a $1,870 Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 rifle purchased online. Ramos had sent messages, including a receipt screenshot, to someone he met online about the high-end gun manufactured in Georgia.

How easy is it to buy this military-style rifle in Texas The age requirement to purchase a rifle such as an AR-15 in Texas is currently 18. A bill, which would raise the age requirement from 18 to 21, advanced out the Texas House Community Safety Select Committee on an 8-5 vote. It now goes to the full House for consideration.

How old do you have to be to buy an AR-15 rifle in Texas?

In Texas, residents only have to be 18 years old to purchase a rifle or long gun.

A long gun is described as a firearm that takes two hands to wield and is typically braced upon ones shoulder, according to Ammo For Sale. The long gun description includes rifles, shotguns, carbines and even submachine guns.

This means that Texans 18 years of age can legally purchase an AR-15.

How easy is it to buy an AR-15 rifle in Texas?

Besides being 18 years old, theres only a few steps needed before a rifle can be purchased:

Arrive at licensed gun dealer.

Show identification, such as driver license.

Complete a Firearms Transaction Record from the ATF.

Wait for dealer to complete background check. (If you are buying from a federally licensed gun dealer. Private and gun show sales do not require background checks.)

Pay for the firearm.

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Buying guns online in Texas

When ordering a gun online in Texas, it doesnt ship directly to the buyer. The gun is shipped to a federally licensed dealer for pickup. When the buyer picks up the purchased firearm, the dealer runs a background check before the buyer can leave with the gun.

How many guns are sold in Texas?

Just over 1.6 million guns were sold in Texas in 2021, according to Safe Home.

That number puts Texas on the top of the list of states recording the most gun purchases, followed by Florida with 1.4 million. California and Pennsylvania rounded out the states with at least a million guns purchased in 2021.

Since 2002, gun sales in Texas have jumped 167% in the next 20 years.
QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuador's government is deploying soldiers and police in nine provinces to combat illegal mining, officials said on Monday, in a bid to stamp out the unlawful mines mostly targeting gold and copper deposits.

The announcement came after some 1,000 security forces destroyed machinery in a raid on illegal miners in the eastern Amazonian provinces of Napo and Orellana.

Earlier this year, President Guillermo Lasso declared illegal mining a threat to national security, linking the practice to organized crime, including money laundering and arms and fuel trafficking.

"To the members of organized crime who insist on this activity, hear this message clearly: We're coming in with absolutely everything," Interior Minister Juan Zapata told a press conference in capital Quito.

Illegal mining is present in 21 of Ecuador's 24 provinces, Zapata said, but the plan announced on Monday targets key conflict zones in the Amazon region that are rich in biodiversity, including protected areas, as well as areas that are home to precious and base metals.

The latest operation aims to further destroy machinery, seize weapons and arrest those involved, according to Zapata.

Last weekend in Napo and Orellana, security forces reported the visible impact of the unlawful activity on local biodiversity and rivers, as well the presence of fuel in the water, Environment Minister Jose Davalos told reporters.

So far this year, raids authorized by authorities on illegal mines have documented the seizure of heavy machinery and even a helicopter.

The government has not given figures on the increase in illegal mining, nor the total number of hectares (acres) affected in the most affected areas, but it has described it is a growing activity.

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia; Editing by Sandra Maler)
Photo: The Canadian Press

The federal Liberals are renewing their multimillion-dollar program to fight gang violence and gun crime.

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino says the government is earmarking $390 million over the next five years for provinces and territories.

Making the announcement in Mississauga, Ont., Mendicino says the money will go toward a variety of initiatives, including support for police and prevention programs.

In November 2017, the federal government announced about $327 million in funding over five years to tackle an increase in gun violence and gang activity in Canada.

Quebec has used the fund for Operation Centaur a provincewide initiative aimed at disrupting firearms trafficking and preventing crime.

British Columbia has put some of the money toward the province's Organized Crime Agency, a police organization that fights gun smuggling, drug trafficking and other kinds of organized crime.
Editorials from The Palm Beach Post Editorial Board are the opinions of the Board, not of the Post newsroom.

As the 60-day session of the Florida Legislature drew to a close last week, the House and Senate were close to approving bills  HB 7065 and SB 7052  that would finally make insurers more accountable to their customers. It was an effort that began way too late and shouldn't have taken until the session end to receive a final vote.

The bills prohibit quick policy cancellations and provide added protections for policyholders whose insurers become insolvent. The legislation bans insurers from altering or amending an adjuster's report without providing detailed explanations for the change, a problem that still plagues homeowners filing claims after Hurricane Ian. The bills also bolster the two state agencies responsible for overseeing the industry  the Office of Insurance Regulation and the Department of Financial Services  with tougher regulations and additional staff.

Our early newspaper deadlines prevent us from stating definitively if the Legislature actually did the right thing. After giving away the proverbial store to the industry and leaving consumers high and dry, you'd think lawmakers' decision to make insurers accountable would be relatively quick and easy. The legislation should have occurred when state leaders took, not one but two special sessions, to address Florida's property insurance crisis. But better late than never.

Policyholders may catch a break if the Florida Legislature approves bills that boost accountability from insurance firms.

FOR SUBSCRIBERS: I almost had a heart attack: Florida homeowners rattled by property insurance costs

Our View: Editorial: Fixing insurance means more than kissing up to big insurers

Florida property owners deserve better protection from an insurance industry that has gotten its way in the state capitol. This legislation should already be law. If lawmakers do approve it, Gov. DeSantis should be quick about signing it. If they fail to get the bills through the process, the Governor should call his third special session with the express purpose of passing strong consumer protections to offset previous industry giveaways.

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Think of the people lined up on the side of the policyholders and the people lined up on the side of the carrier. Whats been targeted?" Amy Boggs, a St. Petersburg property insurance attorney asked the Post's Hannah Morse.

Vinnette Williams in a portrait with a $9,759 Citizens Property Insurance Corporation bill that she received for her home in Boynton Beach.

Amid the flurry of bills lawmakers seemed so fixated on sending Gov. DeSantis to boost his presidential ambitions, it's understandable that policyholders facing tough decisions regarding their property insurance coverage would feel forgotten.

The zeal coming out of Tallahassee in the past two months centered on allowing Floridians to carry concealed weapons without obtaining permits or training, banning abortions after six weeks, expanding school vouchers at the expense of public schools, making it easier for juries to impose the death penalty, barring doctors from providing hormone therapy and puberty blockers to transgender minors, funding anti-immigration efforts, keeping the Governor's travel records out of the public eye  all initiatives pushed by the Governor.

Despite taking two swipes at fixing the insurance mess, the Legislature took time during this latest legislative session to shield businesses and insurance firms from costly lawsuits. This was a priority of House Speaker Paul Renner, R. Palm Coast but the Florida Senate and Governor went along with it and it's now state law.

Damage to homes on Ft. Myers Beach after Hurricane Ian made landfall in 2022.

Related News: The property insurance market was melting down. Then Hurricane Ian flooded Southwest Florida

More: Hurricane Ian is gone. Before the next storm, here are tips on how to review your insurance policy

Corporate protection has become the norm. Last year, Gov. DeSantis and state lawmakers held two special sessions to give the industry pretty much what it wanted. The new laws  making it harder for dissatisfied customers to sue their insurers, and providing money to help insurers insure themselves  were supposed to entice new insurers to come to the state, and to put downward pressure on our soaring premiums.

Instead, dropped coverage, huge premium increases and insurers reneging on claims, have reached a crescendo. Policyholders here already pay an average of $4,231, up from $1,988 in 2019, according to an Insurance Information Institute analysis. With premiums going up or coverage unavailable, it appears the patience of policyholders has run out. In a move that surprised many, state Sen. Travis Hutson, R. Elkton, sponsored insurance-accountability legislation that had been long overdue. For many frustrated property owners, it couldn't come soon enough.

In a legislative session that will be remembered for extremist culture war bills crafted to give a politically ambitious Governor something to talk about, the Legislature might just pass something that helps the one group consistently given short shrift in Florida's property insurance meltdown  the policyholder.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Florida Legislature shouldn't miss chance to hold insurers accountable
LAFAYETTE, Ind.  A brawl near Sixth and Main streets resulted in eight arrests early Sunday and included minor batteries on two Lafayette police officers, neither of whom was injured, according to Lafayette police.

Several Lafayette officers were downtown patrolling at the time for the bars to close at 3 a.m. Sunday, and they witnessed Lloyd Marice Docker, 28, punch a man and knock him out outside of the GOAT pub at 605 Main St., according to Lafayette police.

Docker's friends and the friends of the man who was knocked out began squaring off, according to police.

Lafayette officers were assisted by West Lafayette officers also dispatched to the scene to help restore the peace, according to West Side police bulletins. Lafayette police Capt. Brian Phillips said it is common for the departments in the county to assist one another.

Lafayette police/file illustration

When the fighting and commotions were over, eight people were in jail.

Police jailed Docker, of the 9800 block of South Eggleston, Chicago, on suspicion of battery with serious bodily injury.

Joshua Reggs, 24, of the 3400 block of Poland Hill Road, Lafayette, was jailed on suspicion of battery on a police officer, public intoxication and resisting law enforcement.

Police jailed Bria M. Harris-Smith, 24, of Richmond Court, Lafayette, on suspicion of disorderly conduct, public intoxication, resisting law enforcement, refusal to leave an emergency area and battery on a police officer.

Arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct were Marvin Bryant Adams, 22, of the 1000 block of Julia Lane, Lafayette; Deandre English, 28, 3100 block of Pheasant Run Drive, Lafayette.

Arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct and public intoxication were Olester Johnson, 24, and Leonard Brinson, 31, both of the 3100 block of Coppergate Drive, Lafayette.

Arrested on suspicion of public intoxication was Anastasia Lynn Escobedo, 24, of the 10 block of Covette Court in Lafayette.

Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Eight people jailed after a large fight outside Lafayette bar
Oscar Leeser, the mayor of El Paso, Texas, said on Thursday that the city, which abuts the U.S.-Mexican border, is bracing for an unknown illegal immigrant surge after Title 42 expires.

We are getting prepared now for the unknown. The unknown is how many people will come here, told reporters, the New York Times reported.

Federal immigration laws are broken, and they didnt break during this administration or the last administration, he said. We have to figure out where we are heading. There is no light at end of the tunnel.

Title 42, the pandemic-era rule allowing the Trump administration to expel illegal immigrants to prevent the spread of communicable diseases, will end on Thursday, May 11, after a litigation battle that eventually landed at the Supreme Court. In December 2022, Chief Justice Roberts paused the expiration of Title 42, temporarily granting the emergency appeal of 20 states to extend the program.

No one reasonably disputes that the failure to grant a stay will cause a crisis of unprecedented proportions at the border. DHS estimates that daily illegal crossings may more than double from around 7,000/day to 15,000/day once Title 42 is terminated, their petition read.

El Paso has been overwhelmed by the flood of illegal immigrants moving into the interior. The town has multiple centers dedicated to helping migrants arrange travel and providing housing, but most are at full capacity.

We have been holding this wave off, and this wave is going to come crashing, Ruben Garcia, director of Annunciation House, a large shelter that is maxed out for space, told the Times. How long will it last? Clearly until many people come across from the buildup in Mexico. But many more are likely on their way.

Last week, Independent senator Kyrsten Sinema and Republican senator Thom Tillis said they planned to propose a replacement to the Title 42 program in the form of a temporary two-year authority to expel illegal aliens from the U.S. The lawmakers rule will not rely on public health reasoning, however, and will include protections for those who have serious and legitimate asylum claims as well as individuals with acute medical needs.

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GOP senator Lindsey Graham told reporters Wednesday that Title 42s elimination is like being hit by a slow-moving truck in Kansas. The day before, it was announced that President Biden would dispatch 1,500 soldiers to assist CBP efforts following a Department of Homeland Security request.

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Critics are flaming The New York Times for posting earlier this morning what they say is an overly empathetic 5,500-word profile of Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes. But writer Amy Chozick is in on the con. In fact, her story may provide the clearest understanding yet of how Holmes so captivated investors, business partners and the U.S. media, before The Wall Street Journal finally blew the lid on her company beginning in late 2015.

Nice to be a pretty white lady working your charm on a nyt reporter.  Soledad O'Brien (@soledadobrien) May 7, 2023

pretty incredible to write a performatively angsty bazillion-word profile of Elizabeth Holmes without ever addressing the certainty that her lies would have killed people if she hadnt been busted, or the equal certainty that she herself knew this  Albert Burneko (@AlbertBurneko) May 7, 2023

It's not an easy thing to pull off. First, as any reporter can tell you, writing a profile piece that does not feature at least some puffery is not easy, and profiling someone like Holmes has to be more complicated than most. She hasn't talked to the media since 2016, and she is a highly persuasive character who managed to make many powerful people bend to her will.

As former Theranos employee and whistleblower Tyler Shultz told CBS News early last year of Holmes, "Elizabeth is a very, very charismatic person. When she speaks to you, she makes you feel like you are the most important person in her world in that moment. She almost has this reality distortion field around her that people can just get sucked into.

While Chozick might have written a heavier-handed story -- one that people who reflexively read the story might have preferred -- the brilliance of this piece is that she takes the opposite approach. She lets Holmes perform her magic but offers a peek behind the curtain as Holmes does it.

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Holmes pulls a lot out of her hat. Chozick spends time with not only Holmes, her romantic partner, Billy Evans, and their two children, but also Holmes's parents and others in Holmes's orbit. Holmes and Evans take Chozick to the beach with their dog, Teddy. They invite her to join them for Mexican food at their quaint rental home on the Pacific coast. They visit the San Diego Zoo together and, in a separate meeting, have croissants and berries and coffee made by Evans. Chozick doesn't need to mention each of these outings discretely, but by doing so, she let us witness Holmes's subtle charm campaign as if we were there with her.

Holmes -- whose prison sentence was recently delayed -- grows so confident in Chozick's presence that she even imagines inventing another Theranos. I still dream about being able to contribute in that space, Holmes tells her. I still feel the same calling to it as I always did and I still think the need is there.

The campaign almost works. "I realized that I was essentially writing a story about two different people, Chozick writes. There was Elizabeth, celebrated in the media as a rock-star inventor whose brilliance dazzled illustrious rich men, and whose criminal trial captivated the world. Then there is 'Liz,' (as Mr. Evans and her friends call her), the mom of two who, for the past year, has been volunteering for a rape crisis hotline. Who cant stomach R-rated movies and who rushed after me one afternoon with a paper towel to wipe a mix of sand and her dogs slobber off my shoe."

The writer is so dazzled by "Liz" and finds her so "normal" that her editors have to snap her out of her trance, after which she begins to see the picture more clearly.

Writes Chozick, "I was admittedly swept up in Liz as an authentic and sympathetic person. Shes gentle and charismatic, in a quiet way. My editor laughed at me when I shared these impressions, telling me (and I quote), 'Amy Chozick, you got rolled!'"

Initially, she doubts her editor, saying she is certain she has come to know Holmes in a way that might surprise readers. But then, she adds, "something very strange happened. I worked my way through a list of Ms. Holmess friends, family and longtime supporters, whom she and Mr. Evans suggested I speak to. One of these friends said Ms. Holmes had genuine intentions at Theranos and didnt deserve a lengthy prison sentence. Then, this person requested anonymity to caution me not to believe everything Ms. Holmes says."

At another point, Chozick is again understated about seeing behind the artifice, writing, "Ms. Holmess story of how she got here  to the bright, cozy house and the supportive partner and the two babies  feels a lot like the story of someone who had finally broken out of a cult and been deprogrammed. After her relationship with Mr. Balwani ended and Theranos dissolved, Ms. Holmes said, 'I began my life again.' But then I remember that Ms. Holmes was running the cult."

As the story ends, Chozick deliberately marvels at how much more time Holmes and Evans want to spend with her, inviting her to join them and their friends for yet another dinner, asking if she would like to come back for another date to the zoo with her own family. "I appreciated their hospitality," she writes, "but I didnt fully understand it. Usually interview subjects cant wait to get rid of me."

Then Chozick realizes why they "keep opening the door wider." If "you are in her presence, it is impossible not to believe her, not to be taken with her and be taken in by her."

The observation brings to mind something else Shultz said about his time at Theranos in that interview with CBS News last year. "Even when I was working with the product every single day, seeing it fail time after time after time," he'd said, "I could go and have a five-minute conversation with Elizabeth and feel like I was saving the world again."
Former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes on November 18, 2022 in San Jose, California. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

In her first interview since 2016, Elizabeth Holmes told NYT her perspective on her fraudulent business.

Once the company dissolved, she burned an effigy for Theranos, then lived in an RV for six months.

The former CEO said she experienced "an incredible sense of grief" over her business failings.

You became the world's youngest self-made female billionaire based on your fraudulent blood-testing business venture, only to have your house of cards collapse. You are facing prison. What do you do?



You go to Burning Man.

At least, that was the solution for Elizabeth Holmes, the former CEO of Theranos, who is facing down 11 years of confinement after being convicted of three charges of wire fraud and one conspiracy to commit wire fraud charge. Holmes spoke to The New York Times about her looming prison term in her first interview since 2016.

In 2018, after Theranos failed to live up to Holmes' promises and she was discovered defrauding investors out of more than $100 million and a grand jury indicted her on 11 counts of wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, related to her business operations, her impulse was to visit the bougie desert gathering known for its massive immersive art installations, drug use, and $100,000-a-ticket camps with chef-prepared food and luxury accommodations.

Holmes speaks at Forbes Under 30 Summit at Pennsylvania Convention Center in 2015 Lisa Lake/Getty Images

"There was an incredible sense of grief because I'd given everything to it, my whole life, since I'd been 18," Holmes told the Times about the period after Theranos dissolved.

A lawyer for Holmes did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

At Burning Man, Holmes told the outlet she and her partner Billy Evans torched an effigy for the failed business and, as prosecutors began building their case against her, embarked on six months of traveling the country by RV.

During that time, the pair parked in shopping center lots and campgrounds while Holmes worked on her legal defense between hikes and outdoor yoga sessions.

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"Even though that period was a crisis and Theranos was my life and like my child, I gave everything I had to it," Holmes told The New York Times. Once it was gone, she added, "I also became free."

Holmes continues to try to stave off her 11-year sentence, most recently appealing a judge's refusal to allow her to remain free while she appeals her conviction.

Ramesh "Sunny" Balwani  Theranos' former president and COO, as well as Holmes' ex-boyfriend and co-defendant in their trial  successfully used the same tactic to delay his prison reporting date by about a month.

He ultimately reported to prison in April to begin serving his 13-year sentence.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Elon Musk, the cofounder and CEO of Tesla, speaks during an unveiling event for The Boring Company Hawthorne test tunnel in Hawthorne, California. ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images

Elon Musk envisions a world where tunnels solve all our car-centric woes.

However, tunnels full of cars are not feasible because of a lack of space and high costs.

A journalist argues that Musk could use The Boring Company to make public transportation cheaper.

Elon Musk's yearslong quest to solve traffic by getting cars underground might be a pipe dream, but there could be one good thing to come out of it: cheap tunnels.

Daniel Knowles, a writer for The Economist and the author of "Carmageddon: How Cars Make Life Worse and What to Do About It"  a book released in March about how cars contribute to public-health crises and fuel the climate crisis  argues that Musk could very well reduce the cost of tunneling for subways, which is a process that adds billions to subway development in this country.

The problem, he argues, is that Musk is not interested in that. Instead, the CEO and billionaire has his own vision for improving transportation, which includes solving traffic congestion by building underground tunnels for cars and by building a successful hyperloop. However, that ambitious transportation project that involves moving people nonstop across long distances in high-speed tubes has yet to succeed.

"He is a car executive and wants to sell cars, and believes in cars, and lives around cars," Knowles told Insider in an interview.

"I think he's as car-brained as anybody else," Knowles continued, referencing one of the key premises in his book  America, and the world, is hooked on car culture.

'I think public transport is painful'

As recently as March, Musk's The Boring Company, a construction company dedicated to underground automotive transportation, has been touting tunnels to solve the issues cars produce: noise, pollution, and never-ending traffic jams.

And Musk has often been explicit that traditional public transportation options, like subways, would not be a part of his vision. He even once called a public-transportation expert an idiot.

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"I think public transport is painful. It sucks," Musk said at a Long Beach, California, Tesla event in 2017, while talking about his preference for individualized transportation. "Why do you want to get on something with a lot of other people that doesn't leave where you want it to leave, doesn't start where you want it to start, doesn't end where you want it to end? And it doesn't go all the time."

Musk's complaints are not completely unfounded: Knowles' book shows how underinvestment in public transportation in the US has led to today's declining system, as more people opt for cars.

This is in contrast to places like Tokyo, where, Knowles writes, car use is among the lowest in the world, because owning a car in Japan means paying expensive fees, and in bustling cities like Tokyo, parking spots are rare. As a result, public-transport planning is a priority.

Musk's disdain for public transport that cities rely on and his dislike of traffic formed the foundation upon which The Boring Company was founded. The tunnels that Musk would like to build would support both cars tunnels and the hyperloop, whose development would be divided by multiple startups racing to complete the futuristic technology. "Traffic is driving me nuts. Am going to build a tunnel boring machine and just start digging ..." Musk tweeted in December of 2016, on the day the company was founded.

In 2018, Musk unveiled the first proof-of-concept Tesla tunnel under the streets of Hawthorne, a Los Angeles neighborhood. Musk said at the time that the drilling instruments his engineers fine-tuned were faster and cheaper than traditional drills.

Some engineers, however, were not hopeful about Musk's plans.

"His machines that build tunnels look pretty standard. I've not seen anything from him that is different from what other people do except for the smaller diameter," Herbert Einstein, a tunneling expert at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, told Forbes in 2018. "This really looks like more a vehicle development, rather than tunnel development."

But years later, the proof-of-concept became a reality: In 2021, The Boring Company opened its first car tunnel in Las Vegas, a 4,500-foot loop under the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Failed plans and a traffic jam

Months later, a traffic jam ensued in the Las Vegas Convention Center loop after a Consumer Electronics Show convention.

"His thinking about 'how do we solve traffic' is really barmy. He's seeing it as an engineering problem but with the basic assumption that everybody will be in a car. I don't think it makes sense," Knowles said. "When you consider the amount of tunneling and the amount of space that would have to be occupied for everybody to be able to move around a dense city like New York or Los Angeles without ever having to get in a traffic jam  the maths don't make sense. It's impossible."

The Boring Company has hit snags since its inception. Musk's grandiose plans have been slow to develop, and multiple loop projects in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Baltimore have been scrapped. In addition, the company has pulled out of contracts after promising other cities that it would solve their traffic issues.

Critics have slammed the projects as "scams" meant to drive business toward Tesla.

Knowles told Insider he's driven a Tesla before and said that he does think they are "kind of" cool cars (he'd "rather you drive a Tesla than a gasoline-powered F-250"), but he says it's just not possible to solve traffic with tunnels. And cars in tunnels will never be able to transport as many people as a subway train.

"I think I should have been even more cynical in my book, because I think a lot of what he did with a lot of his hyperloops and autonomy, some of this is literally an attempt to stop cities from investing in public transport directly by promising a kind of fake alternative," Knowles told Insider.

There is evidence of this, too: A 2021 Insider investigation found that the city of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which had been considering an underground commuter train, was convinced by The Boring Company officials to accept a 2-mile car loop connecting the cities downtown to the beach.

Despite the criticisms, Musk's tunnel plans persist: The city of Las Vegas filed a proposal in March to expand the tunnel system by adding 65 miles to the underground commuting system. The Boring Company has also put its controversial hyperloop plans to the side.

"I'm all in favor of tunneling," Knowles said. "If you've got trains in the tunnels, I'm all for it."

The Boring Company did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A New England state has issued a public health advisory after a child recently tested positive for measles.

In an announcement Friday, Maines Health and Environmental Testing Laboratory said it notified the Maine CDC of a positive PCR test for measles in a child.

The childs positive sample is being sent to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for confirmation of wild-type measles versus vaccine measles strain because the child received a dose of measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, officials said.

The child, who became ill with fever and rash on April 30 and is being considered infectious, the Maine CDC said. A clear source of the infection hasnt been identified.

Potentially exposed individuals should check their measles immunization status and monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms develop. Those who are not immunized or do not know their measles immunization status should get vaccinated with at least one dose of MMR vaccine to protect from subsequent exposures, state health officials said. Maine clinicians should increase surveillance for rash illness suggestive of measles to identify early potential cases and prevent the spread of disease. The best protection against measles is vaccination.

Measles is a highly contagious, acute viral illness characterized by fever (as high as 105F) and malaise, cough, coryza, and conjunctivitis followed by a maculopapular rash. The incubation period, the time it takes symptoms to appear after acquiring the virus, is typically 10-14 days but can be as long as 21 days. The rash usually appears about 14 days after a person is exposed. The rash spreads from the head to the trunk to the lower extremities. Measles can cause severe health complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.

Measles spreads to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes. After an infected person leaves a location, the virus can live for up to two hours in airspace or on surfaces where the infected person coughed or sneezed.

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Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90% of the people close to that person who are not immune will become infected. Infected individuals can spread measles to others from four days before the rash appears to four days after the rash appears.

Individuals were potentially exposed to measles if they were at any of the locations during the defined time periods:

Family Time Dine and Play at Auburn Mall in Auburn on April 29, 2023, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Clear Choice MD in Scarborough (273 Payne Road) May 1, 2023, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Hannaford on Cottage Road in South Portland (Mill Creek Hannaford) May 1, 2023, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Mercy Fore River Emergency Department May 2, 2023, 7:45 p.m to midnight

Mercy Fore River Emergency Department May 3, 2023, Midnight to 3:30 a.m.

All suspected cases of measles should be reported immediately by phone to 1-800-821-5821.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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A 44-year-old jail escapee was captured on a Virginia college campus early Monday, officials said.

Bruce Callahan escaped from Piedmont Regional Jail on May 1. Callahan was found at Virginia's Longwood University around 5:30 a.m. Monday, according to the school. He was "injured and in poor health" when he walked onto a campus property and pulled an outdoor fire alarm.

Callahan surrendered to police without incident and asked for medical assistance, according to the school. There's no indication that he'd previously been on the campus.

The captured inmate was provided with medical care, Prince Edward County Sheriff L.A. "Tony" Epps said. The nature of his injuries was not immediately clear.

Callahan was being held on federal drug and weapons charges before his escape from custody. The jail is about three miles away from Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia, about 65 miles west of Richmond.

Officers previously captured 26-year-old Alder Marin-Sotelo, another Piedmont Regional Jail escapee, in Mexico. He was taken into custody on May 4. Marin-Sotelo was charged with murder in the August 2022 killing of a North Carolina sheriff's deputy. Ned Byrd was shot while on duty after he stopped along a dark stretch of road late at night.

The FBI on Sunday said they still needed help to find the vehicle Marin-Sotelo drove away from the jail in. Investigators said it's a red or burgundy 2003 Ford Mustang. They said the car, which has a North Carolina 30-day temporary tag, could be anywhere.

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Margus Tsakhkna

Read also: Main statements and photos of NATO chief Stoltenbergs visit to Kyiv

According to the report, Tsahkna suggests that NATO allies need to identify specific steps towards Ukraines membership, rather than merely repeating their existing position of welcoming Ukraine to join the alliance eventually.

Its not enough anymore just to repeat the already existing position that Ukraine is welcomed to NATO, the minister said.

We must move forward to give a strong message (regarding Kyivs membership).

Several key allies, particularly the United States, are hesitant to specify next steps for Ukraines membership, due to the risk of direct conflict with the Kremlin. Instead, they focus on how to provide military aid so that Ukraine can win the war, while reiterating NATO's promise that Ukraine will ultimately become a member of the Alliance.

Read also: Zelenskyy, NATO chief Stoltenberg plot Ukraines path to NATO in Kyiv

At the NATO Summit in Vilnius this summer, leaders are expected to sign measures, including a long-term fund of 500 million provided annually, to help Ukraine. They may also elevate NATO's official relationship status with Ukraine.

Read also: Ukraine, Nordic countries issue joint statement after summit in Helsinki

During a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg on April 20, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that there are "no barriers to making political decisions" regarding the country's membership in the alliance.

Stoltenberg stated that all NATO members agree that Kyiv will ultimately join the alliance, but are currently focusing on Ukraine's victory in the war with Russia.

Read also: Ukraine understands it will not join NATO during war, but wants clear signals, Zelenskyy says

At the NATO Vilnius Summit in July 2023, Ukraine expects specific proposals from the alliance regarding membership prospects and security guarantees.

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
Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir (2nd-R) has a history of inflammatory remarks about Palestinians

The European Union said Monday it was cancelling its Europe Day reception in Tel Aviv after the extremist Israeli minister representing the government stood firm in his intention to participate.

In a statement, the EU delegation to Israel said it would still celebrate Europe Day on Tuesday but regretted that "this year we have decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for."

Reports began emerging in Israeli media on Sunday about the EU's discontent over National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir's being the government representative to the Tel Aviv reception.

Israeli government officials confirmed on Monday that Ben-Gvir "was designated (by the government) to attend the EU event".

Ben-Gvir, who has a history of inflammatory remarks about Palestinians, was charged more than 50 times in his youth with incitement to violence or hate speech. He was convicted in 2007 of supporting a terrorist group and inciting racism.

He has advocated annexation of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where he lives in a Jewish settlement. Such settlements are considered illegal under international law.

Ben-Gvir, head of the far-right Jewish Power party, issued a statement saying he was the assigned representative, and had "confirmed his arrival."

He also provided details on the speech he planned to deliver at the diplomatic reception.

"The minister thinks that even if the EU representatives do not support his opinions, as per their statements, they understand very well that Israel is a democracy, and in a democracy you are allowed to hear other opinions too," Ben-Gvir's office said in a statement.

On Monday, a spokesman for EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said they were "consulting" on what to do regarding the reception.

"We don't endorse the political views of Mr Ben-Gvir. We don't endorse the political views of his party because they are in stark contradiction with all the values and principles the EU stands for and believes in," Peter Stano told reporters in a briefing.

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Later in the day, the EU's Israeli delegation announced it was cancelling the diplomatic reception, but would still hold the "cultural event for the Israeli public" to celebrate "the strong and constructive bilateral relationship."

Following their announcement, Ben-Gvir lashed out at the EU, accusing it of hypocrisy and "undiplomatic mouth-shutting."

Europe Day is the annual celebration of European unity and peace. It marks the anniversary of the 1950 Schuman Declaration, a few years after the end of World War II, which laid the foundation for today's 27-nation EU bloc.

jjm/mj/it
South Koreans protest Japanese PM's visit to Seoul

Xinhua) 09:18, May 08, 2023

SEOUL, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Several South Korean organizations rallied here Sunday to protest Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea.

The protesters called for Tokyo's apology over its militarist past, opposed South Korea-Japan military cooperation, and demanded withdrawal of Japan's plan to discharge radioactive wastewater.

A group of activists from the Solidarity for Peace and Reunification of Korea (SPARK) gathered near the South Korean presidential office in central Seoul, where Kishida held talks with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol.

"Japan should apologize for its illegal colonial rule and withdraw the Fukushima contaminated water discharge plan," the protesters chanted.

"The (South) Korean and Japanese governments continue to say, 'Let's move into the future with the historical issues covered up and unresolved. A righteous solution to the historical issues will be needed to move toward the future of genuine peace," Moon Ga-on, a college student, told Xinhua while attending the rally.

South Korea unveiled a proposal in March to compensate South Korean victims of Japan's forced wartime labor through a government-backed foundation financed by private-sector donations, which triggered strong backlash at home.

Forced labor victims and sex slavery victims, who were forced by the Imperial Japan into sex servitude for military brothels during World War II, have demanded that the Japanese government sincerely apologize for its wartime atrocities.

Kishida told a joint press conference with Yoon that his cabinet will continue to inherit the positions of previous cabinets as a whole in terms of historical perception, saying his heart ached over people who suffered hard and sad things.

His remarks could be difficult to soothe the victims as most of the previous Japanese cabinets failed to acknowledge its responsibility and make a sincere apology for the wartime brutalities.

Kishida's remarks that his heart ached were an expression of his personal and direct feelings for the people, indicating that it was not an official apology of the Japanese government.

With regard to Japan's plan to discharge tritium-laced wastewater from its crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific this year, Oh Mi-jung, one of SPARK activists, told Xinhua that it will pollute the marine environment and threaten the lives and safety of people all over the world.

"Japan is a country that was devastated by atomic bombs in 1945 ... The plan to dump the radioactive contaminated water into the Pacific approved by the Japanese government, which is fully aware of nuclear and radioactive damages, will endanger the lives and safety of people around the world," the activist noted.

Ahead of Kishida's trip to Seoul, about 5,000 protesters held a candlelight rally in Seoul on Saturday night, opposing the Japanese prime minister's visit without an apology for historical issues.

They also called on Japan to abandon the tritium-laced water discharge plan, urging the South Korean government to stop its diplomacy obedient to Japan and the United States.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Photo: The Canadian Press

A man who threw gravel at Justin Trudeau during a 2021 campaign rally has been sentenced to 90 days of house arrest, with a judge calling the assault a "manifestation of mob mentality."

Shane Marshall was handed a 90-day conditional sentence and one year probation at a sentencing in London, Ont., today.

Justice Kevin McHugh says Marshalls serious assault on the prime minister was not an expression of his political belief but a manifestation of mob mentality that "if left unchecked allows anarchy to prevail.

Marshall, a 26-year-old man from St. Thomas, Ont., had pleaded guilty to common assault in March.

His lawyer called the sentence fair and balanced, saying Marshall acknowledged the seriousness and potential danger of his actions.

The prime minister was unharmed when some of the stones hit him as he boarded a bus leaving the protest-marred event in London in September 2021, weeks before the election.
JERUSALEM (AP)  The European Union said Monday that it canceled a diplomatic reception to prevent a radical ultranationalist Israeli minister from attending.

The act of protest by the EU's delegation to Israel against a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, the most religious and ultranationalist in the country's history, could cause a diplomatic spat between Israel and the EU.

Relations already have been strained over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power faction, serves as the national security minister and was assigned to represent the Israeli government at the EU's Europe Day event on Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said Sunday in a Kan radio interview that Ben-Gvir had been assigned by the government secretary to attend not as a representative of the Jewish Power party ... but to represent the government of Israel."

The EU said that it decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for. The remainder of the public event would take place as scheduled.

Ben-Gvir is a former far-right activist and hard-line West Bank settler who has been convicted of incitement and support for a Jewish terror group. As the governments representative at the Europe Day event, Ben-Gvir would have addressed attendees.

Its a shame that the EU, which pretends to represent democratic values and multiculturalism, behaves with undiplomatic gagging, Ben-Gvir said.

Netanyahu returned to office in December at the head of a coalition that includes ultra-Orthodox parties and religious ultranationalists, including Ben-Gvir's small Jewish Power faction. The government has put expansion of West Bank settlements as a top priority. The EU, along with most of the international community, considers Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem illegal under international law and obstacles to peace with the Palestinians.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for a future independent state.
By Gabriela Baczynska

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The European Union's executive has proposed blacklisting several Chinese companies and curbing exports to nations seen as involved in bypassing Russia trade restrictions under new sanctions against Moscow for the war against Ukraine.

The 27 EU member countries - which must all agree for new sanctions to be enacted - will have a first discussion on Wednesday on the proposal by the European Commission's foreign policy unit, several diplomatic sources said on Monday.

The proposal focuses on combating circumvention of existing trade restrictions through third countries, the sources said, after the EU identified China, Turkey, UAE, as well as countries in central Asia and the Caucasus as potential culprits.

Seven companies in China would be subject to an asset freeze in the EU, said diplomats familiar with the proposal, in what would be a first for the bloc to punish China over accusations of Beijing's role in Russia's war in Ukraine.

On Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said China was urging the EU not to take the "wrong path", and that it was prepared to take action to safeguard its rights and interests.

"China opposes actions that use China-Russia cooperation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions or long-arm jurisdiction against China," Wang said at a regular news conference.

The Financial Times reported earlier on Monday the companies involved were 3HC Semiconductors and King-Pai Technology based in mainland China, as well as Sinno Electronics, Sigma Technology, Asia Pacific Links, Tordan Industry and Alpha Trading Investments in Hong Kong.

A spokesman for the European Commission on Monday confirmed the proposal was sent out to member states and aimed at closing loopholes in Russia trade restrictions but declined to give detail.

FLEXING ITS MUSCLE

The bloc might also expand its list of goods barred from road transit through Russia as it tries to starve Moscow of technology used in the battlefield against Ukraine, according to the sources.

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Among those added to the blacklist would also be individuals deemed involved in deporting Ukrainian children and moving cultural goods to Russia from the war zone in Ukraine, the sources said.

In what would be the EU's 11th package of sanctions against Russia since it invaded Ukraine in February, 2022, the bloc would introduce a new mechanism to cut its exports to third countries seen as involved in bypassing Russia sanctions.

"It will be an empty vessels for now that can then be filled up as needed," said one EU diplomat. "The whole point would be to never use it, to go for a diplomatic outreach first and offer technical assistance."

"Only as the last resort, we will have this threat hanging."

Based on analysis of Germany exports data since Russia's invasion, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) said last February that some banned EU trade was flowing to Russia via the Caucasus and Central Asia.

"The analysis... shows a sharp drop in direct exports from the EU to Russia following the introduction of sanctions in March 2022. At the same time, an increase in the EU exports to Armenia, Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic... is observed."

"Both patterns are particularly pronounced for product groups partially or fully subject to the EU sanctions as well as goods that are similar to the sanctioned ones," the EBRD said.

Some of the sources suggested discussions between member countries could be long and fraught as the proposal risked upsetting economic and political ties.

"I would not expect a decision on Wednesday or next week either. Member states will have many ideas on whether this is a good avenue, how it would actually affect them," said a second diplomatic source.

The proposal highlights the EU's increasing readiness to target third countries and foreign entities with its sanctions, even though the bloc has long insisted it does not do extraterritorial measures akin to the United States.

"Whether we like to admit it or not, it's clearly the way things are going," said a third EU diplomat, a person directly involved in drawing up the sanctions.

Separately on Monday, Russia launched its biggest wave of drone strikes on Ukraine for months, escalating attacks in the run-up to its May 9 holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War Two.

(Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska, Editing by Christina Fincher)
The Verkhovna Rada (the Ukrainian parliament) at its next plenary session will consider President Zelenskyys proposal to mark the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945) annually on 8 May.

Source: Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, on Facebook

Details: Stefanchuk recalled that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy submitted an urgent draft law, "On the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War (1939-1945)", to the parliament, which provides for changes to current legislation.

Instead of the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation, it is proposed to establish the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War (1939-1945) in Ukraine on 8 May each year.

Quote from Stefanchuk: "The draft law submitted by Ukraines President will be considered at the next plenary session.

I want to add that marking the end of the World War II in Europe on 8 May is a European tradition. Ukraine has been marking this day along with the rest of the civilised world since 2015.

And 9 May is the Day of Europe, our common home. And we will certainly return to the United Europe soon."

Background:

In March 2015, Petro Poroshenko, Ukraines former President, issued a decree designating 8 May as Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation in Ukraine, but 9 May remained the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945). 8 May was a working day, and 9 May remained a public holiday.

On 2 May 2023, after nine years of Russia's hybrid war against Ukraine and over a year of full-scale war, the Verkhovna Rada legislatively defined the political regime in Russia as "Ruscism" and condemned it.

On 8 May 2023, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy submitted a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada to establish the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War (1939-1945) on 8 May in Ukraine. He signed a decree to move Europe Day to 9 May.

Russia marks Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War on 9 May. 9 May is Europe Day in other European countries; in Ukraine, Europe Day was marked on the third Saturday of May until this year.

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Liverpool has welcomed Ukrainian people "with open arms", a representative for the community and refugees in the city has said.

Anna Ekvist, 36, said it was "heartwarming" to see how the city had embraced her nation's culture ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest.

"Liverpool people have been so friendly and it has had a big impact," she said.

"To see people support and respect our culture, we don't feel so lonely. We feel part of the Liverpool family."

The UK is hosting the international song contest on behalf of Ukraine.

Ms Ekvist has lived in the city for seven years and recalled waking up to 25 missed calls on 25 February 2022 to news Russia had launched a full-scale invasion on the country.

"They all said, 'war is here, shooting is here'," she said.

"I couldn't believe this is going on in my lifetime and I couldn't reach them and felt like there was nothing I could do."

Ms Ekvist now works at the Liverpool Big Help Project as a Ukrainian Engagement Officer, helping support refugees arriving in the city and sending donations from local people to Ukraine.

"We are so pleased to see people support for Ukrainian people in Liverpool," she said.

"It's nice there is so much interest."

She said it was also "really wonderful" to see local people learning the Ukrainian language to be able to have basic conversations with refugees.

"We feel very welcome," she said.

"It is also great to see Ukrainian flags everywhere in the city.

"People are not forgetting why the Eurovision party is here. Some Ukrainian people feel guilty and that they don't deserve to feel happy while people are dying and fighting for freedom in Ukraine, but said it was important for people to continue to have nice things going on."

She added: "It is nice to be able to celebrate and to forget for some moments the terrible things that are happening.

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"It is warming up our hearts to see the city is embracing the Ukrainian culture."

She said it was "emotional" to see how many symbols of the nation had been reflected in the city's Eurofest which includes a display of traditional song birds and also the development of a Ukrainian memorial garden.

"We may not be able to go to Ukraine, but pieces of Ukraine can come here."

She said she hopes by hosting Eurovision, Liverpool will have an ongoing relationship with the nation.

"I hope that after the war people will visit Ukraine and see how beautiful country is. I hope our friendship will last forever," she said.

Eurovision 2023 banner

Father Taras Khomych, of the Association of Ukraine in Great Britain - Liverpool Branch, said it was "amazing" to see how the city had stood in solidarity with Ukraine.

The Catholic priest, who has lived in the city for 10 years, said he was "grateful" for the support provided by people in the city and across the UK.

"At the start of the full-scale invasion people in Liverpool contacted me asking how they could help," he said.

He said it was "important" to reflected solidarity with Ukraine and was "delighted" to see Ukrainian culture celebrated in the city.

He added Liverpool had been "warm and welcoming" and the atmosphere in the run up to the Eurovision song contest was "amazing".

"It is unique in that it has never happened before that a country would host the Eurovision on behalf of another," he said.

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FormerMarried At First Sight UK (MAFSUK) participant Gemma Rose has accused the shows producers of using her trauma against her to get her to unravel on television.

The 31-year-old mother-of-two was paired up with Matt Murray during her appearance on the seventh series of the show, which aired last year.

However, the pair proved to be a bad match as they consistently got into arguments and disagreed with one another over a number of things. The on-screen relationship ended after Murray began an affair with another participant, Whitney Hughes.

In a new interview with The Sun, Rose opened up about going through counselling before taking part on the show, but believes it was used against her to pair her up with someone incompatible.

She revealed that she and the counsellors spoke about her very negative childhood and events that led to her adult life.

I was very proud to say to the counsellor that Id put them in a box and it was like it was someone elses story, and she said, Youre suffering from trauma.

Rose claimed that she sought reassurance that she was ready to go on MAFS UK, and was promised by the counsellors that she would be fine and they would look after her.

Thats obviously not true, she said on reflection. They just think, Oh, someone weak and we can pick all those bits that they want to change about themselves, and we can let that unravel on television knowing that were going to give them the ultimate challenge.

Rose also revealed that she had been struggling with excessive alcohol consumption before the show, and when she started filming, there was just more alcohol than Ive ever seen being served.

(Channel 4)

We had decanters and the production would be pouring six bottles and wed all be like, Get as much wine as possible! she recalled.

When I first went into the experiment, two weeks later than everyone else, I was sat at the table next to Thomas [Hartley] and he said, Pour a glass of red and a glass of white and youll see what I mean in a minute;, and it was gone.

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Last year, Rose told the Daily Mail that she told producers she didnt feel safe in the experiment due to Murrays aggressive body language, but felt her concerns were left ignored.

I did find him at times quite scary, she said. I told [the producers] I didnt feel safe and I should have been removed a few times in that instance. I felt very vulnerable as it was.

She said that while the producers checked on participants multiple times a day, which was great, it wasnt enough considering the toxic environment that we were in.

A Channel 4 spokesperson told The Independent: All individuals taking part in MAFS UK have been deemed suitable to take part by an independent clinical psychologist and after being cast all contributors have the ability to stay in or leave the process at any stage.

Contributor care and wellbeing is of paramount importance and appropriate support is available to contributors before, during and after broadcast. During filming, alcohol consumption is at the discretion of individuals, but it is monitored and limited by the production team.

All broadcast episodes of MAFS UK are a fair and accurate reflection of the events that took place. While not every contributor finds lasting love in the MAFS process, many have a positive and enriching experience and the UK franchise has brought together couples who remain in committed relationships and have started families.
On The Front Lines of the Border Crisis: A Hearing with Chief Patrol Agents

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Florida Republican, at a House committee hearing on February 7, 2023. Credit - Tom WilliamsCQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

Nearly four million women give birth in the United States each year, but only a handful have ever done so while serving in Congress. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna is about to be one of them. The Florida Republican is expecting her first child in late August, marking a historic rarity on Capitol Hill.

We are very excited to welcome our son later this summer, Luna tells TIME. Children are a blessing and we could not have asked for a greater gift.

Luna would be only the 12th member of Congress to give birth while in office out of more than 12,500 legislators who have served in either chamber since the U.S. Congress convened 234 years ago. Thats less than 0.1%. Its a statistic reflective of a body that, for most of its history, has been disproportionately occupied by men, and still is.

More from TIME

Roughly 28 percent of the 118th Congress is female, according to the Pew Research Center, the highest proportion in American history. There are also more millennial and Gen Z lawmakers roaming the House of Representatives than ever before, driving its median age down slightly from 59 in the last Congress to 58. The Senate, on the other hand, remains older, with a median age of 65.

Yet a younger Congress with more women could mean that pregnant legislators casting votes may become less of an anomaly over time. In fact, a quarter of congressional pregnancies, including Lunas, have happened over the last five years. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, an Illinois Democrat who lost both legs serving in Iraq, had a child in 2018, making her the first U.S. senator to ever give birth while in office. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a New York Republican and the House Conference Chair, birthed her first child in 2021.

Luna, 34, is part of a new class of younger and more diverse freshman lawmakers. She was the director of Hispanic outreach for the conservative advocacy group Turning Point USA before winning office last year. Her victory made her the first Mexican-American female elected to Congress from Florida.

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She met her husband, Andy Gamberzky, while they were both in the U.S. Air Force. After Gambersky returned from Afghanistan, where he was shot by enemy combatants, Luna wrote a book in 2021 about the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder on military service members.

Read more: Members of Congress Live With Mental Illness. Politics Influences How They Manage It

On the Hill, she has already made a name for herself as a charismatic and social-media-savvy legislator with a knack for going viral. A member of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus, she secured a slot on the powerful House Oversight Committee in her first term. In March, she became one of the first Republicans in Congress to endorse Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election.

Luna is currently with a delegation of House members visiting South Korea that is set to return on Tuesday. After that, she will have a busy three months in Washington before the annual congressional summer recess starts at the end of July. The break will serendipitously coincide with her due date. Over the summer, were actually in session a lot, she says. Then obviously in August, she adds whimsically, Ill be trying not to have a panic attack.
Photo provided by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections shows death row inmate Richard Glossip on Feb. 19, 2021. Oklahoma Department of Corrections via Associated Press

The Supreme Court blocked the execution of an Oklahoma man on death row on Friday.

The decision came after the state's attorney general said his life should be spared.

Richard Glossip has been incarcerated for over two decades and has faced multiple execution dates.

The US Supreme Court blocked Oklahoma from executing Richard Glossip, a man who has already had three separate "last meals" and faced numerous scheduled executions.

The death row inmate has been involved in a long-standing battle to live after he was incarcerated accused of a 1997 murder-for-hire plot.

The high court put the execution on hold indefinitely after Oklahoma's attorney general said Glossip should not be killed later this month.

Glossip was having his final visit with his wife, Lea Glossip when they were told about the news.

"I yelled out, 'You're kidding!' at first," Glossip told CNN in a telephone interview from Oklahoma State Penitentiary on Friday. "I want to continue to fight. I want to continue to get my message out to people," he said.

Glossip, imprisoned for the last 26 years, thought he was facing the end of his life on May 18. During his incarceration, the 60-year-old has had nine execution dates  three of which applied until he was just hours away from being killed by the state.

In September 2015, prison officials realized they had received the incorrect lethal drug only moments before he was scheduled to be executed. His execution was stayed, and the incident led to a seven-year moratorium on the death penalty in the state, according to the Associated Press.

There have been two separate investigations into the circumstances of Glossip's case, who has repeatedly maintained his innocence. Republican Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond recently said, "Glossip's trial was unfair and unreliable," per the Associated Press.

Various high-profile celebrities have also supported Glossip in his case. "Richard Glossip needs our help urgently! He has been on Oklahoma's death row for 24 years for a crime he did not commit," Kim Kardashian recently tweeted.

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"There is nothing more harrowing than the thought of executing a man who the state now admits has never received a fair trial," His attorney Don Knight said in a statement. He added they hope the court will "vacate Mr. Glossip's conviction once and for all."

In 1998, Glossip was convicted and sentenced to death for ordering the murder of his former boss Barry Van Treese. The man who admitted to killing Van Treese, Justin Sneed, was sentenced to life in prison to avoid the death penalty in exchange for his testimony against Glossip.

However, an independent investigation commissioned by Drummond concluded Glossip should be given a new trial due to "multiple and cumulative errors" during the original proceedings, CNN reported.

While the Supreme Court considers the case, Glossip told CNN what he and his wife, an anti-death penalty activist who her married last year, plan to do if he is ever released.

"I've never been on a plane, so they want to get me on a plane and take me somewhere," he said. "And I've never seen the ocean, so we want to go do that."

"I'm here to tell everybody, don't ever put off what you need to get done. Do it now because nobody's promised tomorrow," he added.

Read the original article on Insider
Exhibits honoring the legacies of two world-renowned artists are coming to Cincinnati this summer.

Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience, a 360-degree digital art exhibition that explores the world of French painter Claude Monet, is slated to open this June at the former site of Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, downtown on 18 W. Fourth St. Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds, another exhibition celebrating the 75-year career of Spanish painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso, will open at Cincinnati Art Museum on June 23.

The Claude Monet exhibit, organized by global art curator Exhibition Hub and live entertainment tech platform Fever, will feature 360-degree digital displays, projection mapping and a virtual reality tour of some of his most famous works, including "Poppies" and "Haystack."

What's it like to step in a painting? We visited Cincinnati's stellar van Gogh exhibit

Art: Controversial Banksy art exhibit coming to Cincinnati. But is it Banksy approved?

Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds, organized by American Federation of Arts with guest curator Laurence Madeline, will include over 40 paintings and sculptures from 25 public and private collections across the United States and Europe.

The Picasso showcase, organized by American Federation of Arts with guest curator Laurence Madeline, will include over 40 paintings and sculptures from 25 public and private collections across the United States and Europe. According to a press release, the exhibit is part of Picasso Celebration 1973-2023, which consists of 50 exhibitions and events across Europe and North America that coincide with the 50th anniversary of the artists death.

Cincinnati Art Museum will be the second venue to host the exhibition, which is currently at the Mint Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Tickets for Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience go on sale Thursday, May 11, at 11 a.m. and can be purchased through the Fever app or website. Prices start at $36 for adults and $19.90 for children. Children under 4 years old can enter for free.

Take a look: Cincinnati Art Museum discovers hidden portrait under Paul Cezanne painting

After its debut, the exhibit will be open Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Tickets for Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds are currently on sale starting at $18 and can be purchased onsite or through the museum's website. Admission is free for members daily, nonmembers every Thursday evening from 5-8 p.m. and for all during opening weekend, June 23-25.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Exhibits honoring Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso coming to Cincinnati
LAS CRUCES  Expansions are coming to Las Cruces charter school Explore Academy for the 2023-2024 academic year, including newly renovated facilities.

Explore Academy opened in Las Cruces in the fall of 2021 serving grades 6-8. As its initial group of students have grown, the charter has expanded its available grade levels adding ninth and tenth grades. The school will also add fifth grade next school year.

The goal is to add grade levels each year until the school serves K-12 children in Las Cruces, according to Principal Valery Ratliff-Parker.

Principal Valery Ratliff-Parker poses for a photo in front of a school mural on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Explore Academy.

Increased capacity for students

Explore Academy is located at 850 N. Telshor Blvd. and is one of seven public charter schools in Las Cruces, and will soon be one of three public elementary charters. The school operates on the concept of student choice, allowing students to choose from various pathways when deciding which class to take.

The concept carries through all grades allowing students to choose from various flavors of classes. They decide how and in what context they will learn required academic standards through project-based, hands-on learning.

They build their own program as they work through high school so no two kids would have an identical path throughout the entire school, Ratliff-Parker said. They read these little blurbs just like you would in a college course catalog and then they choose which one interests them.

Ms. Horne teaches her science class about food chains on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Explore Academy.

Students work to master topics then take a test on common core benchmarks. They change flavors every 22 days.

The first Explore Academy opened in Albuquerque in 2014 and has since expanded to Las Cruces; Las Vegas, Nevada; Rio Rancho; Livonia, Michigan; Peoria, Arizona and soon to be in Santa Fe.

Ratliff-Parker explained that the Las Cruces school has grown each year it has been in operation and is preparing to make several big changes.

The school currently serves 174 students. Adding fifth and tenth grades next year will increase the schools student capacity to about 350. This will also require the hiring of about seven more teachers to add to the already 14 teachers working at the charter. The schools current average student to teacher ratio is one to 16.

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And what's exciting about the elementary school is, when we initially applied for our charter it was going to be 6-12, but then we saw the need in the community for elementary charter schools, for that choice. So, we petitioned before the public education committee and we got approved, so which is exciting. So that's why we're just starting elementary, said Karen Casedy, head administrator for Explore Academy Las Cruces.

Casedy said the school already has 162 students on a waitlist, but they are accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year.

Taking over former Vista College location

Ratliff-Parker said Explore Academy also recently acquired the building Vista College formerly occupied, right next to Explore Academys current location on Telshor Boulevard. The for-profit college unexpectedly closed its doors in October 2021.

Workers make head way on the new buildings on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Explore Academy.

The building is undergoing renovations but will be ready to house more Explore Academy classrooms by next semester. Ratliff-Parker also said there are also plans to create green spaces and shade for children to spend time outside.

As the school continues to add grade levels, more space will be needed. Ratliff-Parker said school organizers are currently looking for another separate location which will serve as the middle and high school. She said it will ideally only be about a mile or two away from the Telshor school. She said it will be a couple of years before the second location is ready to house students.

The current Explore Academy location will then be configured to serve elementary and middle school students.

People interested in their children attending Explore Academy can find more information and applications online at www.explore.academy/lcs.

Leah Romero is the trending reporter at the Las Cruces Sun-News and can be reached at 575-418-3442, LRomero@lcsun-news.com or @rromero_leah on Twitter.

Others are reading:

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Explore Academy charter school expanding to serve more Las Cruces students
aWalkout 2 Learna Student Protest Held in Orlando

Students and others attend a aWalkout 2 Learna rally to protest Florida education policies outside Orlando City Hall on April 21, 2023 in Orlando, Florida. Demonstrations were held in four Florida cities and included classroom walkouts by students as a response to Republican-led legislation that organizers say acensora education, including instruction regarding gender, sexuality and race. Credit - Paul Hennessy-Anadolu Agency

Not content to demand books be removed from classroom shelves, or to pass laws that restrict topics students can read about in school libraries or even discuss in classrooms, now the book banning movement is going after publishers, with legislation that would censor what books they can publish or distribute to public schools, with imprisonment and fines as possible punishment upon conviction in some cases. Todays efforts to ban books in schools are already unparalleled in recent history, and over the past year, new laws have supercharged the movement; but legislation that directly targets publishers represents a novel attack on books in schools.

In Tennessee, a new law, just signed by Governor Bill Lee, makes it a felony for a book publisher, distributor, or seller to provide obscene matter to a public school serving any K-12 students. Those found to have violated the prohibition would face between one and six years in prison and a fine of at least $10,000.

In Texas, HB 900, which just passed the states House of Representatives, would require book vendors to give books with any reference to sex a rating of either sexually explicit or sexually relevant. Books rated sexually explicit could not be sold to schools, and those deemed sexually relevant would require parental approval for students to access.

And at the federal level, Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL) introduced H.R. 863 in February, which would prohibit a publishing house from knowingly furnishing sexually explicit material to a school or an educational agency, and ban the provision of federal funds to any school that obtains sexually explicit material or to any educational agency that distributes it.

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Of course, book publishers and distributors arent putting pornography in schools. And it is already a federal crime to distribute obscene materials to minors, rendering these new bills unnecessary, if that were their goal. But these bills arent actually about obscene materials. Theyre about giving book ban activists another way to advance their broad censorship crusade.

Read More: Americas Most Banned Author on Censorship and Liberal Silence

We know what the book banning movement actually means when they use the word obscene. Across the country, charges of obscenity and porn in schools are being used to ban classics like Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye and Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale, claiming the presence of any sexual content in a book makes it illicit and harmful to minors. We have seen this with books by John Green and Jodi Picoult in Utah and Florida. Even Maus, Art Spiegelmans Pulitzer-prize winning graphic novel about the Holocaust, was banned in one Missouri district using this justification.

The sponsor of Tennessees bill, Rep. Susan Lynn, has admitted as much, saying, if there are sexually explicit sentences in the book, that qualifies. But the standard legal test for whether something is obscene specifically requires that a work be taken as a whole; a single sentence or image alone does not an obscene book make. The work also has to lack, as a whole, artistic, literary, political, or scientific value. There should be no question that books like The Bluest Eye and Maus hold literary value, but that hasnt stopped them from being banned.

Beyond this mischaracterization of sexual content, sometimes the mere presence of LGBTQ+ characters or themes in a book is reason enough for someone to allege it is pornographica conflation with a long and discriminatory history. Even a number of childrens picture books that represent same sex couples have appeared on lists of allegedly pornographic books that have circulated to schools, and some districts have removed these books as a result.

While the Tennessee law and other bills would ostensibly still be bound by the legal definition of obscenity, it is impossible to ignore the climate in which these bills are being advanced, where the legal definition is being misrepresentedif not outright ignoredby officials supporting these laws. The threat of felony charges in this context could well exert a chilling effect.

Publishers and book distributors are well aware of what types of books legislators are eyeing. As PEN Americas research has shown, the majority of books being banned across the country in the past 18 months have been by or about people of color or LGBTQ+ individuals. The very books and stories that have only recently found a place on library shelves. The laws the book banners want to pass risk creating financial incentives for publishers to keep books by and about these groups out of their catalogs.

Something similar has already happened with teachers and librarians, who have been intimidated into removing works of literature from shelves because of threats of punishment in new laws, even though the laws do not themselves change the definition of obscenity. The laws vague language is enough to put educators on notice that distributing books with certain content might get them into trouble. If these new bills become law, publishers are certain to be placed in the same position. And just as school districts in Florida have been told to do with their library collections, publishers may choose to likewise err on the side of caution regarding what stories they make available.

This is a dangerous escalation in the movement to censor public education. In a very short time, the censorship advocates have gone from trying to control what can be studied and read in schools to trying to control what private companies can publish.

Lets be clear. These bills are not about protecting children. They are about using the power of the state to intimidate private companies and ban ideas and stories that some people find offensive or uncomfortable. By going after private publishing houses, these bills represent an appalling and undemocratic attempt at government overreach, and yet another escalation in the war against the freedom to read.
Photo: The Canadian Press

A union of government employees on Monday sued Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and President Joe Biden to try to stop them from complying with the law that limits the government's total debt, which the lawsuit contends is unconstitutional.

The lawsuit comes just weeks before Yellen has warned that the government could default on the federal debt if Congress fails to raise the borrowing limit by then. Financial markets have been increasingly nervous about the potential for default, with economists warning that a failure to raise the debt limit could trigger a global financial crisis.

The lawsuit, filed by the National Association of Government Employees, says that if Yellen abides by the debt limit once it becomes binding, possibly next month, she would have to choose which federal obligations to actually pay once the debt limit bars the government from further borrowing. Doing so, the lawsuit contends, would violate the Constitution's separation of powers.

Some analysts have argued that in that case, the government could prioritize interest payments on Treasury securities. That would ensure that the United States wouldn't default on its securities, which have long been regarded as the safest investments in the world and are vital to global financial transactions.

But under the Constitution, the lawsuit argues, the president and Treasury secretary have no authority to decide which payments to make because the Constitution grants spending power to Congress.

Nothing in the Constitution or any judicial decision interpreting the Constitution," the lawsuit states, allows Congress to leave unchecked discretion to the President to exercise the spending power vested in the legislative branch by canceling, suspending, or refusing to carry out spending already approved by Congress.

The NAGE represents 75,000 government employees that it says are at risk of being laid off or losing pay and benefits should Congress fail to raise the debt ceiling. The debt limit, currently $31.4 trillion, was reached in January. But Yellen has since used various accounting measures to avoid breaching it.

Last week, Yellen warned that the debt limit would become binding as early as June 1, much earlier than many analyses had previously predicted, because tax receipts have come in lower than projected. Republicans in Congress have refused to vote to raise the debt limit unless Biden and congressional Democrats agree to deep spending cuts.

On Sunday, Yellen said there were no good options for the United States to avoid an economic calamity if the debt ceiling isn't raised. Biden is scheduled to meet with the top Republicans and Democrats in Congress on Tuesday to discuss a potential breakthrough.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis described the Chinese Communist Party as America's "greatest geopolitical threat"

Florida Governor and likely presidential candidate Ron DeSantis signed multiple bills Monday aimed at curbing Beijing's growing sway -- restricting real estate purchases in the southern US state by Chinese nationals and tightening access to video-sharing app TikTok.

The measures were part of a package of legislation that also outlaws the storage of sensitive data on servers linked to the regime of President Xi Jinping and takes aim at Chinese influence in public education.

"Florida is taking action to stand against the United States' greatest geopolitical threat -- the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)," said DeSantis, who is weighing a run for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

The 44-year-old governor signed measures targeting seven foreign "countries of concern" --- China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria and Venezuela -- as he seeks to build his credibility as a global statesman.

Investors who live in China are now barred from owning property of any kind, including homes, anywhere in Florida unless they are a US citizen or permanent resident.

Foreigners from the other six nations cannot buy farmland anywhere in the Sunshine State or property within 20 miles of a military base or critical infrastructure, such as airports or power stations.

China owned 352,140 acres (142,506 hectares) of US land in 2020, according to the Department of Agriculture, just under one percent of the total held from abroad. Canadian investors had about 12.4 million acres.

A second bill banning Chinese-owned TikTok from government-issued devices expands on an executive order signed last September creating a list of prohibited social-media applications considered security risks.

And DeSantis signed a third bill prohibiting public colleges and universities from accepting gifts from or entering into agreements with colleges based in "foreign countries of concern," including China.

The governor will be hoping the legislation improves his standing among Republicans worried about Beijing's growing influence as he attempts to close a double-digit gap on frontrunner Donald Trump in the 2024 primary, with his official launch expected in the coming weeks.

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"China and other hostile foreign nations control hundreds of thousands of acres of critical agricultural lands in the US, leaving our food supply and our national security interests at risk," said Florida's agriculture commissioner Wilton Simpson.

But Chinese-American groups and Democrats in Florida's House of Representatives have voiced fears that measures could lead to increased discrimination.

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Facebook says it is not dead. Facebook also wants you to know that it is not just for old people, as young people have been saying for years.

Now, with the biggest thorn in its side  TikTok  facing heightened government scrutiny amid growing tensions between the U.S. and China, Facebook could, perhaps, position itself as a viable, domestic-bred alternative.

There's just one problem: young adults like Devin Walsh have moved on.

I dont even remember the last time I logged in. It must have been years ago, said Walsh, 24, who lives in Manhattan and works in public relations.

Instead, she checks Instagram, which is also owned by Facebook parent company Meta, about five or six times a day. Then there's TikTok, of course, where she spends about an hour each day scrolling, letting the algorithm find things I didn't even know I was interested in.

Walsh can't imagine a world in which Facebook, which she joined when she was in 6th grade, becomes a regular part of her life again.

"It's the branding, right? When I think of Facebook, I think ugh, like cheugy, older people, like parents posting pictures of their kids, random status updates and also people fighting about political issues, Walsh said, using the Gen Z term for things that are definitely not cool.

The once-cool social media platform born before the iPhone is approaching two decades in existence. For those who came of age around the time Mark Zuckerberg launched thefacebook.com from his Harvard dorm room in 2004, it's been inextricably baked into daily life  even if it's somewhat faded into the background over the years.

Facebook faces a particularly odd challenge. Today, 3 billion people check it each month. Thats more than a third of the worlds population. And 2 billion log in every day. Yet it still finds itself in a battle for relevancy, and its future, after two decades of existence.

For younger generations  those who signed up in middle school, or those who are now in middle school, it's decidedly not the place to be. Without this trend-setting demographic, Facebook, still the main source of revenue for parent company Meta, risks fading into the background  utilitarian but boring, like email.

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It wasn't always like this. For nearly a decade, Facebook was the place to be, the cultural touchstone, the thing constantly referenced in daily conversations and late-night TV, its founding even the subject of a Hollywood movie. Rival MySpace, which launched only a year earlier, quickly became outdated as the cool kids flocked to Facebook. It didn't help MySpace's fate that it was sold to stodgy old News Corp. in 2005.

It was this weird combination...no one knew how technology worked, but in order to have a MySpace, we all needed to become mini coders. It was so stressful. said Moira Gaynor, 28. Maybe thats even why Facebook took off. Because compared to MySpace it was this beautiful, integrated, wonderful engagement area that we didnt have before and we really craved after struggling with MySpace for so long.

Positioning himself a visionary, Zuckerberg refused to sell Facebook and pushed his company through the mobile revolution. While some rivals emerged  remember Orkut?  they generally petered out as Facebook soared, seemingly unstoppable despite scandals over user privacy and a failure to address hate speech and misinformation adequately. It reached a billion daily users in 2015.

Debra Aho Williamson, an analyst with Insider Intelligence who's followed Facebook since its early days, notes that the site's younger users have been dwindling but doesn't see Facebook going anywhere, at least not any time soon.

The fact that we are talking about Facebook being 20 years old, I think that is a testament of what Mark developed when he was in college. It's pretty incredible, she said. It is still a very powerful platform around the world.

AOL was once powerful too, but its user base has aged and now an aol.com email address is little more than a punchline in a joke about technologically illiterate people of a certain age.

Tom Alison, who serves as the head of Facebook (Zuckerberg's title is now Meta CEO), sounded optimistic when he outlined the platform's plans to lure in young adults in an interview with The Associated Press.

We used to have a team at Facebook that was focused on younger cohorts, or maybe there was a project or two that was dedicated to coming up with new ideas, Alison said. And about two years ago we said no  our entire product line needs to change and evolve and adapt to the needs of the young adults.

He calls it the era of social discovery."

Its very much motivated by what we see the next generation wanting from social media. The simple way that I like to describe it is we want Facebook to be the place where you can connect with the people you know, the people you want to know and the people that you should know, Alison said.

Artificial intelligence is central to this plan. Just as TikTok uses its AI and algorithm to show people videos they didn't know they wanted to see Facebook is hoping to harness its powerful technology to win back the hearts and eyeballs of young adults. Reels, the TikTok-like videos Facebook and Instagram users are bombarded with when they log into both apps, are also key. And, of course, private messaging.

What we are seeing is more people wanting to share reels, discuss reels, and were starting to integrate messaging features back into the app to again allow Facebook to be a place where not only do you discover great things that are relevant to you, but you share and you discuss those with people, Alison said.

Facebook has consistently declined to disclose user demographics, which would shed some light on how it is faring among young adults. But outside researchers say their numbers are declining. The same is true for teenagers  although Facebook seems to have stepped back from actively recruiting teens amid concerns about social medias effects on their mental health.

Young people often shape the future of communication. I mean, thats basically how Facebook took off  young people gravitated toward it. And we we see that happening with pretty much every social platform that has come on the scene since Facebook, said Williamson. This year, Insider estimates that about half of TikToks users are between the ages of 12 and 24.

Williamson doesn't see this trend reversing, but notes that Insider's estimates only go as far as 2026. There's a decline, but it's slow. That year, the research firm expects about 28% of U.S. Facebook's users to be between 18 and 34 years old, compared with nearly 46% for TikTok and 42% for Instagram. The numbers are more stark for teens aged 12-17.

I think the best thing they could do is get away from being a social platform. Like theyve lost that. But hey, if they want to become the new Yellow Pages, why not? said Gaynor, who lives in San Diego, California and works in government. I really like Marketplace. I recently just moved, so that was where I got most of my furniture.
Photo: Jeff J Mitchell (Getty Images)

Metas President of Global Affairs and top corporate punching bag Nick Clegg decided to abruptly bail on a hearing in Canadas House of Commons after lawmakers changed the events title to be critical of the social media company. Rather than face a clearly antagonistic audience eager to grill Clegg on his employers impact on news publishers, Clegg decided to pack up his bags and go home with his tail between his legs. Now, Metas threatening to cut Canada off from new links altogether if the contested legislation passes.

The hearing, arranged by Canadas Heritage Committee was meant to serve as a platform to debate the hotly contested Online News Act, which would force Facebook and other internet companies to pay publishers for their content. Clegg initially agreed to attend the hearing when it was titled The Response of Companies in the Information Technology Sector to Bill C-18. That title suddenly changed last Thursday, however, and morphed into the much more combative Tech Giants Current and Ongoing Use of Intimidation and Subversion Tactics to Evade Regulation in Canada and Across the World. Clegg apparently wanted no part of that likely brutal exchange.

Read more

Clearly, it would be a very different hearing to the one Nick Clegg was invited to, Meta said in a statement explaining his non-appearance. As such, we have notified the committee that he will no longer be appearing. Meta representatives in Canada will attend the hearing. One person from Meta did attend the hearing. The Heritage Committee clerk responsible for maintaining records tried to awkwardly explain Cleggs sudden no-show to upset lawmakers during the hearing Monday.

As the events unfolded I was instructed to alter the title of the committees study from a generic description to the exact language of the motion which presented a different framing, the clerk said. [That] was perhaps unpalatable to Sir. Clegg.

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What are Meta and Canda beefing over?

The bill in question would force Meta and other similar-sized internet companies to pay news publishers when they reproduce their content. Companies that refuse to pay publishers for their news links could open themselves up to binding arbitration. Supporters of the bill, which is modeled after similar Australian legislation, say its necessary to help local news publications devastated by social medias ascent. Opponents, like Meta and Google, say the bill amounts to a link tax. The Australian bill was watered down after Facebook blocked news links on its social network.

Meta posted the opening statement Clegg would have given during the hearing. In it, the executive took his most aggressive, hard-line stance against the bill so far. If C-18 were to pass, Clegg said, Meta will respond by cutting off access to news links Canada.

Weve taken the difficult decision that if this flawed legislation is passed, we will have to end the availability of news content on Facebook and Instagram in Canada, Clegg wrote.

Clegg claims the bill is based on a fundamentally flawed premise that Meta unfairly benefits from publishers work. In reality, according to Clegg, publishers choose to share their content with Meta because it drives more traffic to thier website. That simple explanation, however, flies in the face of years of reports documenting the ways social media has contributed to a gutting of newsrooms across most of North America in the past decade. Clegg went on to claim Metas users dont come to us for news, despite polling showing around half of all Canadians receive news via social media.

The world is constantly changing and publishers, like everyone else, have to adapt, Clegg said. Asking a social media company in 2023 to subsidize news publishers for content that isnt that important to our users is like asking email providers to pay the postal service because people dont send letters anymore.

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The claim: Putin recently shut down all Russian oil exports to the US

An April 30 Facebook video (direct link, archive link) shows former TV news host Clayton Morris talking about Russia's oil exports.

"Putin JUST SHUTDOWN All Oil To The US, Collapsing The US Economy," reads part of the video's caption.

The video was viewed more than 180,000 times in less than two weeks.

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

Our rating: False

There were no U.S. exports for Putin to ban, since the U.S. banned all imports of Russian oil, natural gas and coal shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. There is no evidence Putin announced a ban on Russian oil exports to the U.S. around the time of the post.

US does not heavily rely on imported Russian oil

More than a year has passed since President Joe Biden announced the U.S. ban on Russian imports, as USA TODAY previously reported.

"Russian oil will no longer be accepted at U.S. ports," said Biden, speaking from the White House on March 8, 2022. "We will not be part of subsidizing Putin's war."

There are no credible reports of Putin announcing a more recent ban on exporting Russian oil to the U.S., and nothing similar to the claim is mentioned on the Kremlin's website. The video in the post describes Russia's oil exports but makes no mention of such a ban.

Fact check: Experts say images showing Putin's arrest are fake

The U.S. ban on Russian oil was expected to deal a blow to Russia's economy. The initial impact of a wide variety of sanctions imposed against Russia after the invasion was significant, "causing the ruble to crash, the banking system to shudder and companies worldwide to stop exporting vital goods to Russia," The Washington Post reported.

Putin, though, has mocked the sanctions, and some members of Congress have questioned why they haven't had more of an effect. In December 2022, Putin announced a ban on Russian oil exports to any country that abides by a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russia's oil.

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The U.S. consumes more oil than companies extract domestically, but it doesn't heavily rely on Russian oil to meet that demand, The Wall Street Journal reported. About 3% of crude oil imported to the U.S. in 2021 came from Russia, according to the Energy Information Administration.

USA TODAY reached out to the social media user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

PolitiFact also debunked the claim.

Our fact-check sources:

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

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

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: US banned Russian oil imports after invasion of Ukraine | Fact check
Princess Eugenie has been praised for including photographs of the Duke of Sussex attending the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in her social media post about the big day.

Eugenie, the younger daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York, was at the coronation on Saturday (6 May) with her husband, Jack Brooksbank.

The heavily pregnant princess was also seen entering Westminster Abbey with her cousin Prince Harry, who attended his fathers crowning without his wife, Meghan Markle.

In her Instagram post about the historic occasion, Eugenie shared snaps that featured Harry, as well as other photos of the King and Queen, Brooksbank, her sister Princess Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, and shots of the parade.

She wrote in the caption: Yesterday meant so much to me, as Im sure it did to so many watching.

What a magical celebration for the King, the Queen, our country, and the Commonwealth. The day was such a reflection of dedication and service to our country.

Fans were pleased that Eugenies two of Eugenies photo selections included Harry.

Thank you for featuring a few photos that included Prince Harry, one person wrote, noting that other members of the royal family did not post snaps of the duke.

Another person said: Thank you for your support to Prince Harry and his family.

[It was] so lovely that Harry had you and Jack to welcome him and sit with him, a third added.

Others commended Brooksbank for treating Harry warmly during the ceremony, as livestreams from inside Westminster Abbey showed the pair having a friendly exchange.

Eugenie is currently pregnant with her second child. She and Brooksbank, who have been married since 2018, are parents to son August Philip Hawke Brooksbank.

The coronation was the first time Harry had seen other members of the royal family since the release of his memoir Spare in January. He and his brother, the Prince of Wales, had no noticeable interactions during the ceremony.

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Harry spent just over 24 hours in the UK to be present at the coronation, but is believed to have left immediately after to return to California in order to celebrate his son Prince Archies fourth birthday.

Archies birthday fell on the same day as the coronation. Neither of Harry and Meghans children, Archie and Princess Lilibet, attended the event.

It was reported that the King wished Archie a happy birthday during a private party held at Buckingham Palace after the ceremony and the royal familys appearance on the balcony. Harry was not present for the balcony appearance nor for the party, as he headed to Los Angeles International Airport.

He caught a British Airways flight and arrived at LAX at around 7.30pm local time (3.30am UK) in time for Archies birthday celebrations.
A fatal fire occurred Friday evening at a home on Willowtree Circle in the Clark Mills area of New Hartford, the New Hartford Police Department said in a statement.

Authorities were called to Willowtree Circle at around 6:30 p.m. Friday evening, where police said the resident of the home, 74-year-old Mary Gillette, was found dead.

The fire is still under investigation.

Fire investigators are on the scene conducting the investigation along with the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control Investigators.

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Fatal Clark Mills fire: Investigation continues into Friday blaze
On today's episode of the 5 Things podcast: 8 dead after driver crashes into crowd near migrant center

Texas was shaken Sunday by two tragedies. A gunman opened fire at a mall, and an SUV driver plowed into a group of people near a migrant center. Plus, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warns against using the 14th Amendment to end the debt limit fight, USA TODAY Politics Reporter Sarah Elbeshbishi explains the impact of expired SNAP benefits, the Biden administration proposes rule changes to better compensate airline passengers for cancellations and delays, and USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weise looks at the future - and present - of driverless cars.

Podcasts: True crime, in-depth interviews and more USA TODAY podcasts right here

Hit play on the player above to hear the podcast and follow along with the transcript below. This transcript was automatically generated, and then edited for clarity in its current form. There may be some differences between the audio and the text.

Taylor Wilson: Good morning. I'm Taylor Wilson, and this is 5 Things you need to know Monday, the 8th of May 2023. Today, a violent weekend in Texas. Plus, the latest from the debt ceiling fight and driverless cars are here.

Before I get into the meat of the stories today, a warning, this is a tough start to the week with some heavy topics.

We start in Texas. Eight people were killed and others injured when an SUV slammed into a crowd at a city bus stop near a migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas. Police said yesterday that the Sunday morning crash was still under investigation. Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval, told valleycentral.com that the driver was arrested on a charge of reckless driving and that more charges will likely be filed. The local media outlet said the crash happened in front of the Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless people across the street from the bus stop. The male driver was the only person in the SUV and was hospitalized for injuries, according to police.

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Also, on Sunday, a gunman opened fire killing eight victims at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas outside Dallas. The attack is the latest in a string of mass shootings both nationwide and in Texas. Just a week ago, a gunman opened fire on neighbors in Cleveland, Texas, including a nine-year-old child. The state's governor, Greg Abbott, dismissed gun control legislation as a quick solution. He told Fox News Sunday that addressing mental health issues is the long-term solution. President Joe Biden tweeted that the gunman was armed with an AR15 style rifle. He once again called on Congress to pass a ban on assault weapons and high capacity magazines.

 Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen yesterday warned against President Joe Biden invoking the 14th amendment to end the debt limit fight. She told ABC's This Week that such a move could lead to a constitutional crisis, and she reiterated that Congress is the only authority able to raise the debt ceiling. Section IV of the 14th Amendment states that the "validity of the public debt of the United States shall not be questioned." Some say that language allows the President to raise the debt ceiling on his own, but Congress has always voted to raise the debt limit. And it's not clear how alternative options like invoking the 14th would play out. Yellen previously said the government could run out of cash to pay its bills by June 1st. Talks on raising the debt ceiling between Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy have stalled since their last meeting in February, but Biden is expected to meet with congressional leaders from both parties tomorrow.

 At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress created emergency legislation that allowed participants of the supplemental nutrition assistance program also known as SNAP to receive the maximum monthly benefit regardless of income. That was done to address rising food insecurity and to give an economic stimulus. But those extra benefits ended at the end of February. And now with the debt ceiling crisis looming, GOP lawmakers are suggesting even more changes to the program. To get a better understanding of what those changes would mean to those on the program, I sat down with USA TODAY Politics Reporter Sarah Elbeshbishi. Sarah, thanks for hopping on the show.

Sarah Elbeshbishi:Thanks for having me.

Taylor Wilson:So House Republicans are proposing a plan that would include cuts to the SNAP program. What are these cuts specifically?

Sarah Elbeshbishi:So in the recent bill that House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has brought forward for the debt stealing negotiations, it includes about $4.5 trillion in spending cuts, including raising the age limit for SNAP work requirements. So essentially right now, work requirements for people who don't have dependents under the age of 18 in their household are required to work a minimum of 80 hours a month, 20 hours a week in order to qualify for SNAP. If they don't meet that work requirement, they're only allowed up to three months of benefits for every three years. So currently that's 18 to 49 year olds. The proposed age requirement increases that to 55 that would affect nearly one million Americans between the age of 50 and 55.

Taylor Wilson:Wow. A lot of people. So Sarah, these pandemic era supplemental benefits, as you mentioned, have already expired. How are the families that you spoke with who had relied on them for years during COVID dealing with these expirations already?

Sarah Elbeshbishi:Yeah, it's definitely taken a toll. Parents Together Action, a nonprofit parent and family advocacy group, shared with USA TODAY a recent survey that they did of the parents and families that they work with about their experience just one month without those added benefits. And 63% of those parents said that they were having a hard time making ends meet, with 68% of them saying that having food on the table was their biggest challenge. And actually I spoke to a single mother from New Jersey who was saying that she had nothing in her fridge and she was trying to make the last $19 in her food stamps last so that she could feed her family of four.

Taylor Wilson:Sarah, you wrote about another GOP sponsored bill that hasn't been voted on but would also impact SNAP recipients. Who is sponsoring that and how would that impact the program?

Sarah Elbeshbishi:Yeah, so nearly two dozen House Republicans co-sponsored this legislation back in March, and this was led by South Dakota Rep. Dusty Johnson. It would also narrow the work requirement, raise the age from 49 to 65, which is even more of a drastic increase than McCarthy's proposed age increase. But it also would narrow the work requirement exemptions. Those who have dependents in their households under the age of 18 are exempt from that work requirement. Under this proposed bill by Johnson it would limit that exemption to only households with those under the age of seven instead of under the age of 18. And so if that were to be passed, more than 10 million people, about one in four SNAP participants, would be at risk of losing food assistance under the SNAP program.

Taylor Wilson: All right, Sarah Elbeshbishi covers congress, campaigns and democracy for USA TODAY. Thanks so much.

Sarah Elbeshbishi:Thank you for having me.

 Taylor Wilson: The Biden administration will take the first step today toward potentially requiring airlines to offer compensation beyond refunds for controllable flight cancellations or significant delays. President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg will announce that the government will begin the process to examine whether airlines must also cover expenses for meals, lodging, and rebooking when airlines are responsible for stranding passengers. The 10 largest airlines do guarantee meals and free rebooking on the same airline while nine guarantee hotel accommodations. Virtually no airlines offer compensation on top of refunds or amenities, according to the White House. For now, consumers can always check the government site flightrights.gov to see what airlines currently offer.

 Driverless cars. It once seemed like a concept in the distant future. But in some parts of America that future is here, for better and for worse. USA TODAY National Correspondent Elizabeth Weiss explains. Hello, Beth.

Elizabeth Weiss:Hey, how are you?

Taylor Wilson:Good, thanks. Thanks for hopping back on the podcast.

Elizabeth Weiss:Always happy to be here.

Taylor Wilson:So I want to just start here. How common are self-driving cars in America right now?

Elizabeth Weiss:Pretty uncommon in America, pretty common in certain cities. Mostly at this point, San Francisco and Phoenix, which are two big test beds. And the two biggest companies that are out there right now are Waymo, which is a Google offshoot, and then Cruise, which is actually owned by General Motors. There's something like 56 companies, they've done some of the regulatory work to at least start testing self-driving cars, but the number of companies that are actually doing it at scale is quite small. I think in San Francisco or in California, there were three.

Taylor Wilson:And so before we get to some of the criticisms and annoyances with these cars, what solutions can they offer?

Elizabeth Weiss:What the solutions are really depends upon who you talk to. There is a utopian vision 30 years out when we have a small fleet of electric self-driving vehicles that you kind of summon at need. If there's a group who needs to go from point A to point B, the system could figure that out and get them all in the same car or the same van and it would lower the number of actual miles driven. So that's kind of this utopian hope. Whether that would actually come to pass is unknown.

There was an MIT study that was done just a bit ago that actually found that people might drive more the easier you make it. And actually there was a fascinating study that the University of California Davis did where they offered people chauffeured driving, which is effectively what a self-driving car is, it's a chauffeured car without the chauffeur. And people drove 25% more miles because it was so easy. I mean, overall, you want to lower the number of individual vehicle miles driven and will self-driving cars do that? I think at this point we don't know.

Taylor Wilson:And what are some of the major criticisms of this technology right now?

Elizabeth Weiss:Boy, they freak people out. And how people feel about them. It ranges from bemused to annoyed to angry, to, oh my God, it's the robot apocalypse and this is Skynet, and we're in the Terminator movie suddenly. And it kind of depends. I mean, so they are everywhere in San Francisco. San Francisco's a small town, seven by seven miles, and there are about three hundred Cruise cars in San Francisco. And I don't have a number yet on how many Waymo's there are, but there's a lot in my neighborhood specifically. And I can't tell you how many times I'm out, and there's a fair number of people on the streets in San Francisco, and I'll be at a crosswalk with somebody and the person next to me, they look and they're like, "Wait a minute, there's nobody in that car." And you're like, "Yeah." They're like, "Whoa." You just hear a lot of "Whoa." And that's the bemused as opposed to the, "Dammit, they have blocked the school bus, they blocked the firetruck." I mean, there's a lot of that.

Taylor Wilson:Are cities fighting back against this elsewhere in America, or will they soon embrace them with open arms?

Elizabeth Weiss:I don't know if they'll embrace them with open arms. There's work afloat to test them in parts of LA, Boston. All these companies, everybody imagines that this is the future. We will be being driven by our cars rather than driving them. And there are two arguments for that. There's the safety argument that is often made, which is that eventually, and perhaps already, these cars are safer than human drivers. There's this other dream that somehow it will lower carbon emissions. And I feel like the jury's still out on that one a little more. I don't think anybody quite knows when it's going to happen but when we see these technological advances, it does seem that they often take root. So, in 10 years it's going to be really interesting to see is this one that took root or did it become the Betamax and fall away.

Taylor Wilson:All right, Elizabeth Weiss, great insight as always. Thanks so much.

Elizabeth Weiss:You are so welcome.

Taylor Wilson:Thanks for listening to 5 Things. You can find us every day of the week right here, wherever you get your audio. If you have any comments, please reach us at podcasts@usatoday.com. I'm back tomorrow with more of 5 Things from USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Driver hits crowd in Texas, impact of expired SNAP benefits: 5 Things podcast
Geoffrey Keaton, a Texas resident, recalled shielding his 16-year-old daughter from a gunman who killed eight people and injured several others at an outlet mall Saturday afternoon in Allen, Texas.

In an interview with The New York Times, Keaton said they were having lunch at a Fatburger inside the Allen Premium Outlets when they heard gunshots, the Daily Mail reported.

I immediately knew, he said in the interview. I got my baby girl under the counter to shield her, and they got louder like he was right there.

Keaton said the restaurant manager allowed them and other customers to hide in the back during the deadly shooting. When they exited the building, Keaton recalled seeing bodies lying on the ground as they fled to their cars in the parking lot.

You could see bodies of people he had shot on the sidewalk, he told the outlet.

On Facebook, Keaton later shared the footage of the pair as they hid in the hallway with other patrons in the eatery. Meanwhile, another video captured them outside the establishment as law enforcement investigated the incident.

All we wanted was a Fatburger, he said in the video, stating his daughter only wanted a latte.

The shooting is described as the second-deadliest U.S. mass shooting of the year, with the incident still being investigated.

The suspect was identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia of Dallas. On Sunday, FBI agents and Dallas police probed the suspected shooters home, searching for information about the alleged gunman.

Investigators found several handguns, long guns and ammunition inside Garcias 2014 gray Dodge Charger at the shooting scene, according to an exclusive search warrant obtained by WFAA.

Sources familiar with the situation told ABC News Garcia was in the U.S. Army in 2008 but was later discharged due to mental health concerns.

They also confirmed Garcia had adopted an extremist right-wing ideology and disliked Jews and people of color.

Governor Gregg Abbott, R-Texas, described the shooting as an unspeakable tragedy. He later attended a vigil for the victims and shared a tweet uniting the Texas community.

The hearts of all Texans are with Allen, Texas. Tonight, I joined my fellow Texans in Allen for a community vigil for the innocent lives lost last night and those who are recovering from injuries. As this community heals, Texas will be with you every step of the way, Abbott tweeted.
A boy looks at a memorial for Tylee Ryan and Joshua JJ Vallow in Rexburg, Idaho, on June 11, 2020. Texts revealed Monday, May 8, 2023, in the triple murder trial of Lori Vallow Daybell, who is accused along with Chad Daybell in Tammy Daybells death and the deaths of Vallow Daybells two youngest children, show the couple were anticipating the childrens deaths. | John Roark, The Idaho Post-Register via Associated Press

On Aug. 10, 2019, Lori Vallow Daybell texted the man she would later marry.

Do you think there is a perfectly orchestrated plan to take the children? And we just have to wait for it to be carried out? she asked Chad Daybell. I feel lost. Like I should be doing something to help.

There is a plan being orchestrated for the children, Daybell responded.

Just weeks after the texts, prosecutors say Vallow Daybells two kids  16-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old JJ Vallow  were killed and buried in a shallow grave in the backyard of Daybells Rexburg home.

Thats just a window into the trove of text messages revealed Monday in the trial of Vallow Daybell, who is charged with murder, conspiracy and grand theft in connection to the deaths of her two children and Tammy Daybell, the spouse of Chad Daybell.

The texts were read aloud by former FBI Special Agent Douglas Hart, who reviewed Vallow Daybells iCloud account as part of his investigation. Hart took the stand in the 19th day of testimony in the high profile trial.

Over roughly eight hours, the jury was read multiple exchanges  most between Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow Daybell  that showed the couple anticipating what Hart said can be interpreted as the childrens impending death.

The texts also gave new insight into the couples affair, Vallow Daybells attempt to receive money from a life insurance policy belonging to her deceased husband, Charles Vallow, and their odd beliefs, shared by their friend group, that involved zombies, demonic possession and a scale that rated people either light or dark. The texts, which were presented in chronological order, showed how those beliefs at first appeared wacky yet somewhat benign, before descending into something far more sinister.

And some of the texts are hard to understand, emblematic of how obscure Daybells teachings were.

I also decreased his pain tolerance to 1 percent and greatly increased his pain. His desire to depart is at 80 percent, Daybell said over text in July, referring to a religious practice directed at the son of a family friend.

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An orchestrated plan to take the children

July 18, 2019, started with a message from Chad to Lori where he says he has been instructed to focus my efforts on Hillary so I will ... she is at 0.13. I turned up the pain to 10 and placed a spiritual virus in her.

Hillary, Hart says, was the name used for the demon the couple claimed had possessed Tylee. The closer an individual was to zero, the closer they were to their death, the former FBI investigator said.

Eleven days later, Daybell messaged Vallow Daybell an unsettling question: Do you want me to cause pain yet to those two 3s youre riding with? Hart told prosecutors the 3s were Loris children.

Probably hold off on then till we arrive. They will be (miserable) to deal with. But Ill text you if they start acting up and we can zap them, Vallow Daybell messages.

Daybell, in response, tells Lori Vallow Daybell: Yes, if they are going to act up well at least give them a reason to scream. I love, cherish, treasure and adore you.

Hart told prosecutors this stood out in his investigation, particularly because it refers to causing the children pain  words like zapping and scream are relevant, he said.

Then, on Aug. 10, comes the text exchange between Vallow Daybell and Daybell where they refer to an orchestrated plan to take the children. It started with a message Vallow Daybell sent to Daybell, where she is concerned over the apparent possession of her 7-year-old autistic son. He was just up talking nonsense for like 2 hours last night. Im sure they were bugging him. Is he at zero yet? I miss you, she says.

Yes. Hes at zero, Daybell says in response, which according to Hart essentially means close to death.

You are doing everything right my love, Daybell tells Vallow Daybell when she asks if there is anything she can do to help. Daybell says he had a conversation with the Lord who told him they are right on track.

Then, Daybell tells Vallow Daybell that he could sense JJ was barely attached to his body.

Harts interpretation of this belief, which he spelled out earlier in the day, is that when someones body and spirit separate, they die.

Then, just five days before police say the last known video showing Tylee alive is recorded, Vallow Daybell texts her brother Alex Cox, who prosecutors believe is an accomplice in the case. Cox would later die just weeks before police declared the two children missing.

Cox asks his sister what shes doing. Working on Zs, Vallow Daybell says, Z presumably short for zombie, which according to the groups fringe beliefs means someone has been possessed by an evil spirit.

The siblings chat, and Cox tells Vallow Daybell I am proud of you. No more Zs.

We r (sic) trying to get to the bottom of what we need to do eliminate them completely. Im sure you will be told also, Vallow Daybell says.

Tammy Daybells removal

Not only were Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow Daybell anticipating the childrens death, but they were also seemingly eager about the imminent death of Tammy Daybell, according to the prosecution.

In early Oct. 2019, after when police say both Tylee and JJ were murdered, the couple laments over text that Vallow Daybell is unencumbered and free prosecutors said, but Daybell is not.

Thats when talk of Tammy Daybells death ramps up.

Hello sweet angel. Big news about Tammy, Daybell says early on Oct. 5, 2019. He goes on to describe a demon named Viola who has possessed his wife.

Not fully sure of the timing for her removal but once her actions verify the difference, I dont want to wait, he says. Four days later on Oct. 9, Tammy Daybell was shot at by a masked man while standing in her driveway. On Oct. 19, she was killed in her sleep, according to the prosecution.

Just one day after her death, on Oct. 20, Vallow Daybell messages Daybell that she is sad, and misses him.

I know exactly how you feel. Im feeling sad, but it isnt for the reason everyone thinks! Daybell says in response.

Defense claims fantasy

Though his cross examination was short, Vallow Daybells defense attorney Jim Thomas frequently used the term fantasy when describing the text exchanges between her and Daybell.

It was all fantasy, correct? Thomas asked at one point, referring to Daybells revelatory predictions.

Not everything was fantasy, Hart said, seeming to refer to the couples anticipation of the childrens deaths.

Thomas also pointed out that the majority of messages, videos and pictures on Vallow Daybells iCloud were harmless  asking where to go for dinner, taking kids to school, scheduling doctors appointments. Things that Thomas said were normal mom stuff.

Isnt it true that Lori, for all intents and purposes, was a pretty good mother? Thomas asked Hart.

With the exception of what happened to her children, yes, he said in response.
The FBI is nearing a Wednesday deadline to provide documents to House Republicans relating to an alleged bribery scandal involving President Biden.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., filed a subpoena alongside Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, seeking the record of a 2020 interview with a source who they believe made extensive bribery and influence-peddling allegations against Biden relating to his time as vice president.

"We believe the FBI possesses an unclassified internal document that includes very serious and detailed allegations implicating the current President of the United States. What we dont know is what, if anything, the FBI has done to verify these claims or investigate further. The FBIs recent history of botching politically charged investigations demands close congressional oversight," Grassley said in a statement regarding the subpoena.

The pair filed the subpoena after an FBI whistleblower approached Grassley's office regarding the reported interview, according to Punchbowl News.

WHITE HOUSE INSISTS NO 'POLITICAL INTERFERENCE' IN HUNTER BIDEN PROBE AFTER IRS WHISTLEBLOWER COMES FORWARD

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, filed a subpoena alongside a House colleague seeking FBI documents relating to a potential President Biden scandal.

The whistleblower argued Biden and various members of his family benefited from foreign policy decisions he made throughout his career.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

HUNTER BIDEN INVESTIGATION BEING MISHANDLED, CLEAR CONFLICTS OF INTEREST: IRS WHISTLEBLOWER

"The American people need to know if President Biden sold out the United States of America to make money for himself," Comer said in a statement. "Senator Grassley and I will seek the truth to ensure accountability for the American people."

Both Grassley and Comer have been investigating the president's business dealings for years, and the White House has long dismissed their allegations. Administration officials maintain that the president never spoke to his son, Hunter Biden, about his business dealings, and have continued to say that the president was never involved in them.

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White House spokesman Ian Sams accused the pair of "floating anonymous innuendo, amplified by the megaphone of their allies in right-wing media, to get attention and try to distract and deflect from their own unpopular ideas and lack of solutions to the issues the American people actually care about."

"When it comes to President Bidens personal finances, anybody can take a look: he has offered an unprecedented level of transparency, releasing a total of 25 years of tax returns to the American public," he added.

Biden's administration has already set a precedent of ignoring GOP subpoenas. The State Department has ignored multiple deadlines for providing documents relating to the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan as well.
I had an interesting conversation with a business owner (in) downtown (Kelowna) recently. Out of the blue, the conversation turned to the issues with the homeless downtown near the business. In all the time I have been at this business, the topic has never been brought up.

Clearly the owner was frustrated with having to clean up in front of the business before opening. Due to the increased presence of the homeless, customers have stopped coming. According to the owner, there are many new faces living on the street.

Where are they all coming from? They can't all be from Kelowna. Until we get a handle on things, it's time to start putting those who aren't from Kelowna on a bus to anywhere else.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's government is proposing a Compassionate Intervention Act, similar to what Premier David Eby was musing about but turned tail and ran from after opposition to it.

Its time to stop being a "friend" and to start acting like a parent. People like the business owner and me are fed up. We want to see our tax dollars spent wisely. That means our homes and businesses shouldn't be under attack constantly by those who clearly can't look after themselves and govern themselves accordingly.

Enough talking, it's time to take action on the homeless situation. Unfortunately, governments have let things slide and the supports aren't in place. There are not enough facilities to take in those who cant, and shouldnt, be on the street.

There also arent enough addictions counselors and support workers to ensure help is available. Governments at all levels have thrown money at the problem with no solution or a real plan.

Think of all the money spent having first responders go from call to call, only to be turned away by the patient, sometimes several times a day.

As radio talk show host Lowell Green has said on many occasions, poverty is an industry, there are no plans to end it.

M. Boyer, Kelowna
Truth portals, (where visitors can tell a story and/or receive one) created by Genel Ambrose featuring imagery by photographer and film director Deun Ivory, at the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles on April 7. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

Last month, WACO Theater Center in North Hollywood debuted Witness, a multimedia exhibition centering the perspectives of L.A.-based Black women and nonbinary artists. On view through May 27, the collection was curated by WACOs co-founder Tina Knowles Lawson and Genel Ambrose , founder of the cultural programming incubator Good Mirrors . The 14 featured artists explore themes of family, community and identity in works that feel celebratory, honest and uninhibited.

Black women are underrepresented, said Knowles Lawson, an avid collector of African American art. It just seems to be tougher for them to get started and to get their work out there. So, this was a labor of love, really.

Artist April Bey's tapestry is part of the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

That uphill battle can be so daunting that one of the shows artists had a hard time even imagining such an opportunity could be real. Filmmaker Amber J. Phillips, whose 2021 short film Abundance is on display in the exhibition, said she was in such disbelief when WACOs director of communications and strategy, Nijeul X, reached out to her that she disregarded his introductory email and continued to make the pot of butter beans she had been preparing.

She wasnt readily convinced the curators would be genuinely interested in providing a platform for her work, which unapologetically comments on white supremacy and its impact on her life as a self-identified dark-skinned, fat Black girl from the Midwest. Ultimately, she was glad her initial misgivings were unfounded.

When you take a closer look at why Witness was created  which is to not only center Black women and femmes, but to see the world how we see the world  its so surprising, because its past due, Phillips said. Everybody wants to know what we think about them  or they want to present us to the world the way they want us to be. So few people ask us what we think about ourselves. To have the audacity to give us a stage and a place to show that and invite other people in is just a dream.

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Artist Liam Woods' "Welcome Home" series is part of the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

A 1971 quote from Toni Morrison was the curator groups North Star, inspiring the shows conceptual direction: And she had nothing to fall back on: not maleness, not whiteness, not ladyhood, not anything. And out of the profound desolation of her reality she may very well have invented herself.

We were very keen on having a diverse range of artists who, in many ways, extend the tradition of Black feminist thought through their work, Ambrose said. She continued, adding all of the artists reflect on how theyve invented themselves in a society that doesnt often see and acknowledge the brilliance and beauty of Black women.

"Re-Imagining Black ___", a two-screen video installation by artist Sade Ndya at the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

The venue  which Knowles Lawson and her husband, Richard Lawson, opened in 2017  typically hosts musical and theatrical productions, film screenings and educational programs. Witness is a unique visual art venture for the center, its works dispersed throughout the lobby, theater and hallways, as well as a next-door annex  formerly used for storage and office space  that has since been affectionately dubbed WACO North.

I was blown away seeing our little theater look so much like a gallery  it was transformed, said Knowles Lawson. I got so emotional when I walked in and saw it all together. It really hit different because it was all women. Theres such strength, vulnerability and love.

We spoke with several of the participating artists who attended the opening reception to discuss their eclectic yet spiritually linked entries in the exhibition.

"Vanity: A Weeping Post," by artist Amber J. Phillips, is part of the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

Amber J. Phillips

According to Phillips, her short film Abundance is an exploration of what it would look like for women like her to be the center of their own universe. When youre ignored in society, when you arent included, when things literally arent made for your body to exist in certain places, in that slippage, in people not paying attention, what can be created? Who can we become?

Standing a few feet away from the wall-mounted monitor showing the film, theres a vintage vanity that Phillips refurbished by hand. She explained that the positioning was intentional: While watching Abundance, viewers are reflected in the looking glass, thereby inserted in the world shes created. This isnt just about me, she said. I want you to see yourself in my story so you can take some responsibility for what comes next for all of us.

Artist Dana Davenport, who has work in "Witness," pictured at WACO Theater Center. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

Dana Davenport

Dana Davenport's interdisciplinary work delves into her Korean and Black American heritage. For Witness, she focused on pieces that address the important role that Black womens hair plays in both cultures.

Three pieces from her "Box Braid Chandelier" series are suspended from the ceiling in the annexs entryway  steel structures wrapped with multicolored synthetic hair and adorned with plastic beads and handmade clay barrettes bearing Korean words. She described them as the result of a personal journey to discover how the hair, sitting on the shelf inactive, is transformed in the hands of Black folks through love, through care and through labor.

I imagined these chandeliers as objects to look up at and be in awe of, Davenport said, noting that shes literally and figuratively elevating this material that has a really complicated history.

Artist Dana Davenport holds her box braid vase that is part of the "Witness" art exhibit at WACO Theater Center in Los Angeles. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

The artist was raised in South Korea and moved to the U.S. in 2011. The first time she visited an American beauty supply store that caters to Black women, she was surprised to discover that, as with many such establishments, the proprietor was a Korean immigrant. By that time, shed also begun to observe the racial tensions that have historically kept the two communities at odds. As a result of that strife, its all too common for hair care shopping experiences to be plagued by distrust and, at times, hostility between customers and merchants.

Davenport offers a glimpse at her idyllic vision of what those shopping experiences could be with her reproduction of a retail aisle shelf  a portion of a larger 2021 installation called Danas Beauty Supply  which is meant to get visitors thinking of ways in which we can reimagine [the stores] as a space for solidarity.

It is already a space for creativity and for beauty, but how do we also incorporate accountability? How do we have some of those different conversations around Black and Asian solidarity?

In the two-channel video installation Beauty Supply ASMR, pairs of hands rub the edges of plastic hair rollers together and run sharpened nails down the teeth of combs to trigger a sensory response in the viewer.

I am an [autonomous sensory meridian response] junkie, Davenport explained. So, it just felt natural to incorporate objects from the beauty supply store into a video thats very soothing and allows people to experience the care that these products provide for the Black folks who use them.

Artist Liam Woods' "Welcome Home" series is part of the "Witness" art exhibit. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

Liam Woods

On a brightly lit stairway off WACOs main hallway, youll find four intimate snapshots by trans, nonbinary photographer Liam Woods . The images are part of their "Welcome Home" series, which centers queer joy. A sun-dappled hand softly caresses a reclining loved ones temple in one photo, while in another, a couples arms are draped in a gentle embrace.

Theyre friends of mine and I wanted to show how they find solace in one another during hard times like this, Woods said. With the state of the world and whats going on with all of the anti-LGBTQ bills that are going into effect, and the Uganda death penalty, its more important now than ever to spotlight images like this and be able to uplift those voices within the community.

They explained that the core of their practice is providing representation for queer, nonbinary and trans people of color.

Im just really coming from a place of love, acceptance and celebration, they said, expressing a desire to provide viewers with an opportunity to get away from all of that darkness and see how we really stand in this beautiful light.

"Sanctuary: Tales of a Conjurer Woman" by mother-daughter artists duo House of Aama. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka, House of Aama

Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka, the mother-daughter duo behind L.A.-based fashion label House of Aama , spent the better part of three days creating their assemblage installation, Sanctuary: Tales of a Conjurer Woman, along the entire back wall of WACO North. What they created was an altar filled with lit prayer candles and fresh flowers, and interspersed tables covered with lace doilies and topped with seashells, antique dolls, instruments fashioned out of gourds, books about voodoo rituals and framed photos of Harriet Tubman, boundary-breaking journalist Ida B. Wells and authors Octavia E. Butler and Zora Neale Hurston.

A quilt, handmade by Rebecca and marrying Black Southern folk art traditions with West African symbols and textiles, was draped behind it all. She described Sanctuary as dealing with the Black feminine gaze  when were peering out into space, looking forward and looking backward, what it is that were seeing and imagining.

A lot of these things are coming from our own altars in our house, Akua added. When people see our work, I want them to understand that this is directly a reflection of us and our familial lineage and how we identify as Black women.

Designs in their latest collection feature names like Anansi, the West African folklore character, and Maroon, the enslaved Africans who escaped and evaded their captors across the Caribbean. The pair, whove been designing clothing together since Akua was in high school, frequently erect similar altars at their fashion shows.

Were folklorists and anthropologists, Henry said. Our brand, our assemblage work is focused on the Black experience and unpacking nuanced histories. Always, as a part of that, we have the spiritual component where were calling on that divine ancestor thats feminine.

Tapestries by artist April Bey are part of the "Witness" art exhibit. (Christina House/Los Angeles Times)

April Bey

The statuesque figures in April Beys woven tapestry polyptych, Sankofa, They/Them, dont so much look at you as through you. Each has regal bearing, refined attire and a fierce, unbothered stare.

The work is made from the premise of me being an alien from another planet, Atlantica, Bey explained of her Afrofuturistic textile creations. Weve long-since celebrated this imagery on our planet. On Atlantica, we have no concept of race, so a lot of my work is commentary on how primitive Earth still is and how we watch it like a [TV] reality show, like, 'Oh, its so cute  they still have genders!'

She said the alien narrative is a therapeutic tool she uses to help her maintain sanity. As a child, she was told by her Trekkie sci-fi blerd of a father that theyd been sent to Earth as operatives to observe and report. He made me feel like we were better than those scrutinizing our hair or positionality in life  and instead, placed us in an evolved narrative with a dash of adventure.

A multidisciplinary artist and Glendale College professor who hails from the Bahamas, Bey infuses her extraterrestrial work with down-to-Earth imagery from the island nation. All around her fabric fashion brigade, theres lush tropical foliage and flowers that, upon closer inspection, are revealed to be folded hands bearing long, brightly-colored fingernails. Black womens acrylic nails, she explained, were always considered a hallmark of beauty in her Caribbean community. (Where Im from, thats all we know!) She also accessorized the figures outfits with images of the Royal Crown hair dressing label, worn as lapels, belts and bangles. A lot of my work comes from trying to see the similarity of the diaspora, she said, referencing the century-old products popularity among Black customers around the globe.

In the exhibition, you have traditional modes of capturing and witnessing blended seamlessly with new media and installation. My tapestries function as [a] mode of capturing Black opulence, inviting the audience to witness [it] as a regular occurrence.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Dr. Candice Moran, 37, fanned their two young children in the shade of Ilus Park Saturday afternoon as over 150 protesters rounded the corner of Oak and East 10th Street in a sea of rainbow flags and picket signs.

Trans rights matter! said the crowd.

Like Moran, many of the Kansas Citians marching had braved the 90 degree heat for this rally, organized by eight metro-area medical students, to push back against restrictions on gender affirming care proposed by Missouri lawmakers.

On April 13, the House voted in favor of banning transition surgeries, hormone therapy and puberty blockers for minors, sending it to the Senate. Then, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed emergency rules limiting a doctors ability to provide gender-affirming care. As of April 27, under this rule, doctors would be unable to provide this care to minors until all of the patients documented mental health issues have been treated and resolved.

But, a St. Louis County judge extended an order Thursday blocking enforcement of the rule until at least July 24.

For Moran, a Kirksville native, the ongoing efforts to restrict care felt personal.

There is not one area of my life that is not impacted, Moran said.

Both Moran and their seven year old child are non-binary. Moran also works as a psychologist, providing guidance and care to medical students around Kansas City.

They were among a large crowd of people in the medical field who attended the Saturday afternoon rally.

Some of the protesters came in scrubs and handmade signs calling the limits on gender-affirming care dangerous. At least eight people told The Star they were not comfortable sharing their names for fear of retaliation from their medical institution. Others feared speaking about local politics would hurt their ability to practice in Missouri.

Cassie Taylor, 36, and their child Woods Haren, 8, designed a poster in the crowd of people gathered Saturday in Ilus Park to protest restrictions on gender-affirming care. Taylor wrote You cannot make us disappear in bold letters.

One of the organizers, Erica Yauney, said she was not surprised to hear many arriving were anxious.

Theres a lot of pressure on the institutions around here to stay quiet and not get involved, she said. A lot of providers are nervous because they dont want to get in trouble.

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Yauney explained the rally was prompted by conversations with other students and practicing physicians, who fear the rules will hurt their ability to receive and provide care.

Theyre worried they wont be able to get the care they need to keep on hormone therapies and keep doing what theyve been doing, she said.

The large turnout, Yauney said, was reassuring. Trans community members and activists helped raise awareness for the event and jumped on stage to speak to the crowd.

They want to erase us

President of the LGBTQ Caucus of the Kansas Democratic Party Jae Moyer thanked the large group for standing up for trans healthcare.

They want to erase us, Moyer said to a boos from across the audience.

We only win by making members of the LGBTQ community know they are not alone, they said.

Slowly the microphone was passed to other activists and medical professionals passionate about providing gender-affirming care. One family care doctor, Quinn Jackson, who is transgender, said the rules force doctors to practice medicine with their hands tied behind their backs.

It truly is one of the greatest honors of my life to take care of my community and provide [gender-affirming care] to them, Jackson said.

To the trans people in the audience, know that you are vibrant and beautiful and deserve to be treated with love and celebration, not just tolerance.

Woods Haren, 8, lifted a sign they had drawn in the crowd of people gathered Saturday in Ilus Park to protest restrictions on gender-affirming care.

Dr. Candice Moran looked on as their children colored in Trans Rights Matter posters and the speeches came to a close.

Like many of the other medical professionals, Moran had been trying to teach doctors and students about carving out safe spaces for trans people since they started practicing in 2012.

In the final moments of the rally, Moran confessed that they are nervous for future aspiring trans and non-binary doctors.

The students Ive worked with, these people are scared. People are wondering to what extent do we leave [Missouri] and to what extent do we stay and fight, Moran said.

Why would they want to go to school or take residency in states where its not safe for them or their patients?

Over the last decade, many colleagues and other medical professionals questioned why Moran chose to work in Missouri and speak about supporting trans youth.

When Ive tried to share who I am, theyve said Well, why does that matter? They felt it should be completely separate. But who we are impacts everything we do, Moran said.

For their own childs well-being, Moran hopes more doctors find the strength to speak out.

Were here, were not going anywhere, Moran said of non-binary and trans people.

Fight with us.
Beth Thompson, who is chronically homeless, makes her way to her home at the Alexandria Park Tiny Home Village in North Hollywood on April 27. Thompson's been teamed up by a nonprofit called Miracle Messages with a phone buddy in Maryland. The two women speak regularly by phone and text. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

During the half-hour phone call they bantered about the appearance of gray hair, the joys of getting their nails done and strategies to exercise more.

Amid the small talk, Beth Thompson dropped a bombshell. After living 16 months in a tiny home village in North Hollywood, she'd soon be moving into her own apartment.

Thompson and Tiffany Daniel have never met in person and likely never will. Daniel, an employee of the U.S. Department of Commerce, lives across the country in the town of Waldorf in southern Maryland.

She's been speaking with Thompson by telephone for about six months after signing up with Miracle Messages, a nonprofit conducting an unusual social experiment in pursuit of its founder's vision that companionship can be a force in improving the lives of homeless people, and maybe even more so if enhanced with a little spending money.

Beth Thompson tries to remain optimistic while living at the Alexandria Park Tiny Home Village in North Hollywood. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

Over the last two years, about 200 volunteers like Daniel have become telephone buddies with people living on the streets of Los Angeles or, like Thompson, in shelters. About half of them, including Thompson, receive a monthly stipend of $750 as pocket money with no strings attached.

The two women text several times a day and speak by phone ideally at least once a week shortly after Daniel gets home from work. In reality, Thompson calls whenever she needs someone "to lend an ear."

"I've called her sometimes at 2, 3 o'clock in the morning asking for advice, and she gives me good advice," Thompson said during a recent visit at the Alexandria Park Tiny Home Village. "Always willing to give me good advice, telling me everything's going to be OK, just try to relax and get some sleep. And I do. Everything's worked out just fine."

Besides being friends, Thompson and Daniel are participating in a controlled statistical study. USC's Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work is surveying the phone buddies to measure the effects of companionship, with and without a basic income.

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Miracle Messages is the evolving vision of Kevin F. Adler, 38, a serial entrepreneur of social enterprises. After finishing his graduate studies in sociology at Cambridge University, England, Adler was in San Francisco founding education technology startups when a 2013 visit to the grave of his homeless uncle precipitated self-questioning over his view of people living on the street as "problems to be solved rather than people to be loved."

Miracle Messages founder and CEO Kevin F. Adler with a homeless man sitting in Union Square in San Francisco in January 2019. (Paul Chinn/San Francisco Chronicle)

His answer was to start an experiment. He distributed 24 GoPro cameras to people living on the street to tell their stories.

"It was pretty heartbreaking," he said.

On one of the clips, he heard someone say, "I never realized I was homeless when I lost my housing, only when I lost my family and my friends."

Next he started asking street people if they had any loved ones they would like to reconnect with.

"One of the first individuals I spoke to was a man named Jeffrey who said he hadn't seen his family for 22 years," Adler said in an interview.

Adler posted a video on a Facebook page connected to Jeffrey's hometown in Pennsylvania. Within an hour classmates and neighbors were liking it, and the local newspaper picked up the story.

Jeffrey's sister said he had been a missing person for 12 years.

"I kind of had this realization," Adler said. "Jeffrey is probably not the only one." He began to think of homelessness as a poverty of relationships  "dislocation and isolation"  as well as a lack of money.

Beth Thompson receives a hug of support from Debby Moyer, near Thompson's tiny home in the Alexandria Park Tiny Home Village in North Hollywood. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

Thus began Miracle Messages. Its first project sought to reunite people with family and friends by posting videos on social media. With philanthropic support, it has grown more sophisticated. It takes referrals on a hotline, (800) MissYou ([800] 647-7968), and an online form. A stable of volunteer digital sleuths supported by a professional private investigator pursue requests from homeless people hoping to renew long broken ties and from family members seeking long-lost relatives.

Adler said the project has reunified about 800 families.

By 2020, Adler was experimenting with a buddy program at a residence for formerly homeless senior citizens when the pandemic foreclosed on in-person contact. The buddy system transitioned to the telephone.

"We found the relationships developed pretty quickly," Adler said. "People opened up, became authentic friends."

San Francisco's then-homelessness czar, Jeff Kositsky, invited Adler to the city's shelters. Soon, 80 volunteers were making weekly contacts by phone and text.

The next phase came from feedback Adler got from volunteers who wanted to know if they could give their buddies a few dollars.

"You asked me to be a friend to this person, but they don't know what they're going to eat tonight," they would tell him.

Adler didn't want money to intrude on the volunteer relationship. But the idea of cash support appealed to him.

An appeal on social media raised $50,000. A pilot with 14 clients who received $500 monthly for six months proved promising.

They spent it on food, housing, storage fees and even charitable donations, Adler said, "totally at odds with what I think society would expect people experiencing homelessness to do with the money."

Media coverage caught the attention of Scott Layne, a Los Angeles entrepreneur and philanthropist. Layne offered to help Adler expand the program to Los Angeles and provided seed funding that led to a $1.1-million grant from Google.org.

Adler, whose nonprofit has no physical headquarters in Los Angeles, hired two recruiters, Jenni Taylor, who worked for nonprofits in Cambodia and Peru before following her partner to Los Angeles, and John Ma, who left an executive job at Fox Corp. to pursue his love for street-level public service.

On a recent evening, they made one of their regular stops at JD's Place, a shelter in South Los Angeles.

John Ma, right, seated, signs up Johnny Brock, a Bridge shelter resident, for the Miracle Messages program. Jenni Taylor, left, general manager of Miracle Messages Los Angeles, chats with resident Katrina Hobbs, who will be leaving the shelter soon with her husband for their own home. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times)

"Sometimes you need someone outside the people you see every day," Taylor told a small audience of residents. "You need an outside perspective, someone to just listen, connect with. We're going to match you with one person, and that one person is going to call you, check in on you and just be there. None of us are a trained therapist. We're not a case manager. We don't have housing vouchers. We're really just a friend."

Johnny Brock, who was several months out of prison, signed up that night. He said a German pen pal who befriended him in prison helped in his rehabilitation. He thought he could use a friend on the outside too.

One thing Taylor did not do was promise money. Not everyone who signs up for Miracle Friends will receive Miracle Money.

For research purposes, "friends" are divided into three randomized groups. A third of those who sign up will be held on a waiting list through the duration of the study. Of those matched with a phone buddy, half will be designated to receive $750 monthly for a year if they stick with the relationship for several months.

John Ma, right, with Miracle Messages, wears the company's motto on his shirt while visiting JD's Place, a city Bridge shelter. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times)

Not all do. Of about 350 recruits in Los Angeles, only about half have continued to stay in touch, said Ben Henwood, a professor in the Dworak-Peck school who is leading the study.

Daniel, who learned about Miracle Friends when Adler made a presentation at a Department of Commerce inclusion and diversity program, said she was immediately taken by the concept but got discouraged when several friends  all men  disappeared.

Thompson was her last try.

"We hit it off right away," she said.

Now that she feels the friendship is secure, she worries about the money entering the fray.

"If she received this money would it be a setup or a setback?" she asked herself. "I didn't want her to be able to receive the money for a year and when it cuts off she not be able to maintain."

Henwood's team surveys participants every three months to learn if having a friend improves mental health and whether a basic income can lead people out of homelessness. A formal report will come after 100 friends complete 15 months. Henwood said he hopes to have preliminary results by the end of the year.

Layne, the philanthropist who encouraged Adler to bring Miracle Friends to Los Angeles, said he sees the benefit already as a volunteer.

His friend, who asked that his name not be used, spent 25 years in prison for killing a friend while on an LSD trip and now lives in his car on the Westside and watches over his mother, who lives in her own car.

On a recent call their conversation drifted over a diversity of topics: great hiking spots, the alignment of the planets, the color of daisies and the number of bullets fired in the new "John Wick" movie.

The light talk was punctuated by a few delicately probing questions and long, revelatory answers.

"Did you ever talk to your parole officer about appealing that decision from the other month?" Layne asked.

"It's like I'm tired," the friend replied. "I see all these people getting off parole and I'm doing exactly what the parole board told me to do. They said, 'Stay out of trouble. Take care of your mom. Keep doing good.' That's what I'm doing.

"I'm going to make sure, when my mom shuts her eyes, ain't no one's going to mess with her," he told Layne. "She took care of me for the 25 years I was in, pretty much all of my life. Now someone has to take care of her, Bro."

Layne said the relationship has deepened to the point he thinks it's time they meet in person.

Thompson may never meet Daniel, but their relationship has definitely given her a boost.

A borderline diabetic, she's using the money to catch the bus to a Starbucks, then grab some groceries, fresh fruits and vegetables to substitute for the food provided at the tiny home community.

"I can't always eat the food here because I have high blood pressure," she told Daniel during their recent call. "I got to watch the salt intake."

"I would say, 'Watch the carbs,' " Daniel suggested. "The carbs, when you're not working out and burning it, it turns into sugar."

"I picked up bottles and cans the other day, just for the hell of it," Thompson said. "It gives me something to do while I'm walking. You help the ground, you know. You help clean the area."

The effort was paying off for her health-wise and she needed to do some shopping.

"My clothes are way too big for me," she said.

"Let's talk about the future, because you got a place," Daniel said.

"As soon as I got those keys in my hand, I'll take pictures and send them to you," Thompson said.

"Yeah, because that's going to be another blessing," Daniel said.

Thompson thought of all those nights out in the cold, waking up to strangers standing over her.

"Oh, yeah, it's a big blessing. I been waiting since 1999."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The owners of Barrington Plaza, an aging Los Angeles apartment complex with a record of life-threatening fires, said Monday that they plan to evict all tenants to make way for a sprinkler retrofit that will cost more than $300 million and take several years.

Landlord Douglas Emmett Inc. notified city officials that it will withdraw all 712 units in Barrington Plaza from the rental market under the Ellis Act. The state law allows landlords to remove tenants from rent-stabilized apartments if their building is removed from the rental market.

It is expected to be one of the largest mass evictions in the city in recent years, affecting 577 occupied units, some of which house tenants who have lived in the property for decades under rent controls that keep their monthly payments below market rate.

Residents were notified Monday of the planned closure.

Tenant rights advocate Larry Gross of the Coalition for Economic Survival said Douglas Emmett should have planned to temporarily relocate the tenants and allow them to return to their rent-controlled units when repairs are complete.

There are long-term tenants who are going to end up being displaced and will have to pay much higher rents in the future, he said. They wont be able to find comparable housing in the neighborhood or even the city.

The complex at Wilshire Boulevard and Barrington Avenue in L.A.'s Sawtelle neighborhood will be returned to the rental market when the upgrades are complete, the landlord said. No completion date has been set and there are no provisions for tenants to return to their units.

Current tenants may have as long as a year to move out and, in the case of elderly or disabled occupants, could receive more than $22,000 in financial assistance for relocation, the landlord said.

Relocation expense payments for tenants who have lived in the building for less than three years will be as much as $9,200 and may be used for such costs as first and last months' rent in another apartment, security deposits and moving fees. The dollar amounts follow city eviction guidelines.

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Due to high turnover, most tenants are currently paying market rate rent, the landlord said.

The three-tower complex was built in the early 1960s, which puts it in a group of 55 residential towers in Los Angeles that are exempt from laws requiring sprinklers that are triggered by fire. Sprinklers are mandated in most apartment buildings, but the city has maintained an exemption for high-rises built between 1943 and 1974. Among them are condominium buildings occupied by owners who have resisted the expense of adding sprinklers.

The lack of sprinklers at Barrington Plaza proved dangerous in 2013, when one of its three towers caught fire, displacing 125 residents. Fire erupted again in the same 25-story structure, known as Tower A, in 2020. A 19-year-old man died and 13 people were injured, including a 3-month-old baby and two firefighters. Eight floors in the building were red-tagged by city inspectors as unsafe to occupy and remain vacant.

A man trying to escape flames walked along a ledge after a fire engulfed the sixth floor of Tower A of the 25-story Barrington Plaza apartments in 2020. Firefighters were able to rescue the man. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Although city law does not require Barrington Plaza and other residential towers of its era to perform sprinkler retrofits, city officials did make approval of Barrington Plaza's planned repairs from the 2020 fire contingent on upgrading the safety standards of all units.

We understand the impact removing all Barrington Plaza rental units from the market will have on our tenants," Douglas Emmett Chief Executive Jordan Kaplan said in a statement. "Unfortunately, this is the only way to comply with city directives to install fire sprinklers and other life safety improvements throughout the towers following the January 2020 fire.

Barrington Plaza will have relocation specialists available at the property who can provide individualized tenant support and aid in locating, viewing and moving into new residences, the landlord said. There will also be a telephone hotline to answer tenant questions.

"Although almost 75% of our residents have been at Barrington Plaza for less than three years, we have some residents that have been here over 20 years, and we want to make sure that this process is as seamless as possible for them," Kaplan said. "That is why we are going far beyond the Ellis Act requirements by providing individualized relocation support tailored to the specific circumstances of each tenant."

Gross said the landlord should use other means to protect tenants' housing at Barrington Plaza.

"Thats one of the largest complexes on the Westside," he said. Its "rent-controlled units will be lost forever if they use the Ellis Act."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
House Armed Services Committee leaders will unveil the first outlines of their annual defense authorization bill this week, providing hints at their plans for defense spending and military training changes in fiscal 2024.

The defense policy bill is one of the few reliable pieces of legislation to advance through Congress annually, passing into law for more than six consecutive decades. It sets the parameters for military spending priorities, renews a host of pay and benefits authorizations, and includes hundreds of new program parameters and personnel rules.

The six sections of the bill to be released (and likely approved by subcommittees) this week will show just a few sections of the full measure to be marked up by the full committee later this month. But issues like scaling back diversity initiatives in military training and limits on defense abortion policies  topics expected to be major debate points this year  could be previewed in those early looks.

Both the House committee and its Senate counterpart are hoping to get their respective drafts of the legislation onto their respective chamber floors in June. But the ongoing fight between Republicans and Democrats over extending the nations debt ceiling could push that schedule back.

Tuesday, May 9



House Veterans' Affairs  3 p.m.  390 Cannon

Electronic Health Records

Veterans Affairs Officials will testify on ongoing problems with the electronic health records modernization effort.



Senate Armed Services  4:45 p.m.  222 Russell

Missile Defense Activities

Gen. Glen VanHerck, head of U.S. Northern Command, and other defense leaders will testify on missile defense activities and the fiscal 2024 budget request.





Wednesday, May 10



Senate Foreign Relations  9:45 a.m.  419 Dirksen

Sudan Conflict

State Department officials will testify on the current turmoil in Sudan and U.S. diplomatic response.



House Foreign Affairs  10 a.m.  Visitors Center H-210

Arms Exports

State and Defense Department officials will testify on U.S. arms exports to Australia and Britain.





Story continues

Thursday, May 11



House Armed Services  9 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

NDAA Cyber panel markup

The subcommittee on cyber issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.



Senate Appropriations  9 a.m.  124 Dirksen

Defense Budget

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley will testify on the fiscal 2024 budget request.



House Armed Services  10 a.m.  2212 Rayburn

NDAA Strategic Forces panel markup

The subcommittee on strategic forces issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.



House Oversight  10 a.m.  2154 Rayburn

U.S. Shipbuilding Capacity

Navy officials will testify on U.S. shipbuilding capacity and the implications for national defense.



House Transportation  10 a.m.  2253 Rayburn

Coast Guard Recruitment

Service officials will testify on recruiting and retention challenges.



House Armed Services  11 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

NDAA Seapower panel markup

The subcommittee on seapower issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.



House Armed Services  12 p.m.  2212 Rayburn

NDAA Personnel panel markup

The subcommittee on personnel issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.



House Armed Services  1 p.m.  2118 Rayburn

NDAA Tactical Air panel markup

The subcommittee on tactical air issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.



House Armed Services  3 p.m.  2212 Rayburn

NDAA Intelligence panel markup

The subcommittee on intelligence issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.





Friday, May 12



House Armed Services  8:30 a.m.  2118 Rayburn

NDAA Readiness panel markup

The subcommittee on readiness issues will vote on its section of the annual defense authorization bill.




Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, joined by Sherri E. Onks, FBI Jacksonville Field Office special agent in charge, Roger B. Handberg, United States Attorney Middle District of Florida, and Marcus Anderson, Drug Enforcement Administration Orlando District assistant special agent in charge, at a press conference Monday, May 8, 2023, announcing nine arrests during Operation Ice Man, an investigation of a drug-trafficking organization accused of transporting methamphetamine and cocaine from Phoenix and Los Angeles to central Florida.

Five Flagler County residents, including a father and two sons, were among nine indicted on federal charges in a cross-country drug-trafficking operation, law enforcement officials announced during a press conference Monday in Bunnell.

Alfred Lamar Shavers, 48, and his sons, Camarie Dontre Shavers, 23, and Alfred Lamar Shavers Jr., 26, all of Bunnell, were among those arrested as part of Operation Ice Man, Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said.

The elder Shavers was charged with drug-trafficking conspiracy and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and up to life in federal prison, according to law enforcement. Both of his sons were indicted on drug-trafficking conspiracy and each faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison.

Palm Coast news: Robbery suspect shot 8 times by store clerk after fleeing from Palm Coast to Georgia

State news: School shooting threat suspect arrested for causing mass panic facing serious jail time

"Obviously, the poison peddler apple didn't fall far from the tree," Staly said of the father and sons.

Tyrone James Jones, 55, of Palm Coast was charged with drug-trafficking conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute; he faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

Zara Adriana Mascarella, 20, also of Palm Coast, was charged with drug-trafficking conspiracy and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

The Shavers, Jones and Macarella were all distributing drugs in Central Florida, authorities stated. Staly described them as "high-level drug traffickers."

Staly was joined at the press conference by Roger Handberg, the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, Sherri E. Onks, special agent in charge of the FBI Field Office in Jacksonville, and Marcus Anderson, assistant special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration District Office in Orlando.

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Jimmie Lee Bizzell, 53, of Green Cove Springs, was indicted on drug-trafficking conspiracy and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. He drove trucks carrying the drugs, law enforcement stated.

Luis Miguel Hernandez, 36, and Saul Sandoval, 39, both of Phoenix, were also indicted; each faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison.

The arrests took place Thursday and Friday, Staly said. An unnamed co-conspirator was also arrested but is not being named because the investigation is continuing.

Law enforcement in Volusia County began investigating in February 2022, and later contacted the Flagler County Sheriff's Office for assistance, Staly said.

The drug-trafficking ring relied on commercial trucks to transport illegal drugs from Phoenix to Florida, Staly said.

"This is the largest drug trafficking investigation in the history of the Flagler County Sheriff's Office," Staly said.

Law enforcement served search warrants in October in Volusia and Flagler counties and seized 98 pounds of methamphetamine and 6 pounds of cocaine with a combined total street value of $2.9 million, Staly said. The drugs originated in Mexico, according to law enforcement.

Law enforcement in Arizona seized about 10,000 fentanyl pills likely made in Mexico.

"These pills had a street value of over $600,000 and the potential of killing 670,000 people," Staly said.

Authorities also seized nine guns and hundreds of bullets at the elder Shaver's residence.

Law enforcement also seized 18 firearms at Sandoval's home in Phoenix, along with fentanyl and $5,000 in cash, law enforcement stated.

The Volusia County Sheriffs Office, DeLand Police Department and the Daytona Beach Police Department were also part of the investigation.

Defendants face federal charges

Handberg, whose office will prosecute the cases in federal court in Orlando, commended the agencies involved in taking down the drug-trafficking operation allegedly responsible for shipping more than 300 kilograms of drugs into Flagler and Volusia counties since 2021.

He warned investigators would continue to hold anyone accountable for drug trafficking.

Let this be a message to anyone who illegally conspires to traffic methamphetamine, cocaine or fentanyl in this community, Handberg said.

Onks said fentanyl and other deadly drugs are a threat of epidemic proportion and said the FBI is working with federal, local and state law enforcement to arrest drug dealers.

Together we arrested over 20,000 violent criminals and we are still actively pursuing close to 400 federal investigations against transnational organized criminals and cartel leadership across the country, Onks said.

She asked anyone who witnesses anything suspicious related to violence or drugs to contact local police or the FBI to help law enforcement keep communities safe.

"Fighting violent crime is a responsibility we all share and we need help from you, the community," Onks said.

Residents can reach the Flagler County Sheriff's Office at 386-313-4911.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: 5 Flagler County residents indicted in cross-country drug conspiracy
Students in Florida could soon be required to learn social media safety in the classroom.

Its all part of a bill headed to the governors desk.

The bill calls for social media safety instruction in health classes from 6th to 12th grade.

Read: Orange County school board considers joining lawsuit against social media platforms

It would cover disinformation, cyberbullying, human trafficking, impacts on mental health and more.

The bill will also require students to put their phones in a designated area during class.

Read: UCF to block students from accessing TikTok from its networks over security concerns

Kids are losing their innocence at an earlier and earlier age and its honestly heartbreaking, said Rep. Danny Burgess. If this issue is not deserving of a curriculum, then I dont know what is.

The bill will also ban TikTok from school networks.

Watch: TikTok CEO faces criticism about security practices, possible ties to Chinese surveillance

If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the new rules will take effect July 1.

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Frontier Airlines added new nonstop routes between Puerto Rico and seven U.S. cities.

NAPA74/Getty Images

Frontier Airlines launched several new nonstop flights to Puerto Rico from cities across the mainland United States just in time for the summer holidays.

Last week, the carrier added flights from San Juan, the capitol of Puerto Rico, to five U.S. cities, according to the airline. The routes are between Luis Munoz Marin International Airport and Cleveland, Baltimore, Chicago (MDW), Dallas (DFW), and Detroit.

Frontier also added two flights between Puerto Rico and Florida. This includes a route between the Rafael Hernandez International Airport in Aguadilla and Tampa, and a journey between the Mercedita International Airport in Ponce and Orlando.

The airline is adding flights from San Juan to Cancun, Mexico on May 11.

Our major expansion in Puerto Rico is connecting the island to some of the most popular destinations across the United States, as well as Cancun, Daniel Shurz, the senior vice president of commercial at Frontier Airlines, said in a statement. In addition to bringing increased tourism to the island, Puerto Ricans now have more access to Frontiers Low Fares Done Right to visit friends and family across the U.S.

The eight new routes to Puerto Rico bring Frontiers total service to the island to 20 nonstop flights.



The routes come as Frontier has discounted its unlimited summer flight pass by $500 through the end of the month. The deal, which must be purchased by May 31, is valid through Sept. 30 to destinations throughout the U.S. and beyond, including Puerto Rico and Mexico. (Frontier also offers an unlimited annual GoWild! Pass, which offers a year of flights for one flat rate. That pass is currently on sale for $1,999.)

Frontier is a low-cost airline and typically charges for extras like baggage and seat selection. The airline flies to more than 90 destinations across the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.



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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
Representative Michael McCaul (R., Texas), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, warned Antony Blinken that he might be held in contempt if the State Department does not produce a dissent cable in which diplomats warned about the repercussions of U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

McCauls committee has been investigating President Joe Bidens decision to pull troops out of that country. In March, after making multiple good-faith attempts to obtain the cable, the committee issued a subpoena to the State Department for its release. Blinken and his colleagues have yet to release the document, missing the most recent deadline of May 1, already extended from its original subpoena return date of April 4.

The Department is now in violation of its legal obligation to produce these documents and must do so immediately, wrote McCaul in the letter.

The July 13, 2021, memo was sent to the secretary through the Dissent Channel, a messaging framework that allows State employees to express disagreement with the governments policy on a particular issue. The cable said that the Biden administration had been warned by its own officials that the Talibans advance was coming sooner than the administration had anticipated and correctly predicted that Afghanistans military would be unable to stop it, according to the Wall Street Journal. 23 U.S. Embassy staffers signed the cable.

Biden campaigned on a promise to withdraw American troops from Afghanistan. In public statements, the administration expressed surprise at how fast the Taliban were taking over the country. A culminating point of the withdrawal was the terrorist attack on Kabul Airports Abbey Gate, which killed 13 U.S. service members and at least 170 Afghans. The committee heard testimony in March that the U.S. military did not permit service members to engage the suspected suicide bomber before the attack occurred.

According to McCauls letter, State has provided the committee with a summary and briefings on the memo but refuses to release it. It is inherently problematic for the Department, which is the subject of the Committees investigation, to be permitted to withhold key material evidence and substitute its own abbreviated characterizations of that evidence for the original documents, read the letter.

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It added that the administration has previously misrepresented source material conclusions in the summaries it has released. The Departments classified AfterAction Review specifically contradicted inaccurate and misleading assertions in the White House summary and press briefing that there was not chaos during the emergency evacuation at Kabuls Hamid Karzai International Airport and that the Administration did not bear significant responsibility for the failures of the withdrawal, the letter read.

McCaul explained that the State Departments briefers were unable to answer basic questions and made multiple inaccurate statements.

The Foreign Affairs chairman also quoted several ambassadors who have refuted the State Departments grounds for refusing to release the cable. In a letter to McCaul, the State Department said that sharing cables outside of the department would have a profound chilling effect upon those who would consider writing a cable in the future.

However, Ambassador Ryan Crocker, who served as President Obamas Ambassador to Afghanistan, has said it ought to be released with the names of the signatories redacted.

Ambassador James Jeffrey, who served as Ambassador to Iraq in the Obama Administration, said the issues here are too important . . . to inhibit a full airing of what went wrong, if only to preclude doing the same thing again.

It is very hard to understand why those drafting this cable would see this as inhibiting their and others willingness to dissent in future contingencies, but rather as assurance that the political process is functioning as it should and that administrations will truly consider dissenting views. Furthermore, the possibility that such views will eventually be reviewed by Congress and the public would likely encourage the department to take dissent seriously, which is the whole point of the Dissent Channel, Jeffrey explained.

The deadline McCaul gave Blinken was May 11, at which time the secretary will be held in contempt or a civil enforcement proceeding will be initiated.

More from National Review
TikTok is loving the wholesome video one woman shared of a foreign exchange student shes currently hosting in her home. In it, the teenager is prepping for her upcoming school prom by partaking in the time-honored American pastime of getting a spray tan. Unfortunately, though, it doesnt all go smoothly, and the teens reaction to the strange new experience is both adorable and hilarious.

The clip was recently shared by @josiewhite201, whose TikTok bio describes her as a mom of two daughters, plus two bonus daughters who are foreign exchange students from other countries.

The mom has actually shared many videos before of her foreign exchange daughters, as she calls them, including trips theyve gone on together and times shes introduced them to new American foods.

But none have captured as many hearts as her recent spray-tan video, which is now up to 5.6 million views.

Though the exchange daughter featured in the clip isnt named, @josiewhite201 does identify her as a Swiss-born teen whos currently studying in the U.S.

In the video, she has just returned from a spray-tanning booth, which she calls the most American thing ever, and is already blown away by the results.

I just had to go into a machine, and now I look like Ive been on vacation for like two weeks, the teen says before her host mom reminds her that it actually takes six hours to fully process the color.

And Im already that dark?! the girl replies. Im so scared!

She then recounts her experience inside the booth, which sounds like it was an unintentional comedy of errors.

I was in the thing, and I totally forgot to put my hair in the plastic thing, and it says, 3, 2, 1! and I was like, Ohhhh shoot!' the teen recalls.

After that, she also realized she forgot to put in the nose plugs they recommended, so she wouldnt be breathing in the substance that was getting sprayed. She then found herself panicking the whole way through.

According to the teen, spray tanning  and even self-tanner  is not common in her home country, and she would normally be considered weird if she had it done. That said, she had no regrets over getting one now and even admitted that she might get addicted to it, considering how good it looked when she stepped outside.

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Im gonna do that like every week, she joked before declaring, I am ready to go to prom!

The TikTok is just one of many to emerge lately featuring foreign-exchange students getting the full American experience. In one viral video, a French exchange student shows how she would normally dress back in France versus what she feels pressured to dress like in America. In another, a Japanese exchange student shares a recent mishap she experienced while attempting to date in America  and realizing right away that things are much different than back in her home country.

Luckily, even though the teen in this latest video claims she messed up by forgetting to follow certain directions, it looks as if she got a pretty even tan in the end.

Not everyone has been so lucky, though. In fact, many TikTokers have opened up in the past about their own tanning faux pas  from awkward encounters with the spray-tan tech to not turning from side to side on time  and the results can sometimes be a bit jarring.

(Scroll through the hashtag #tanningmistakes on TikTok, and you can see a whole lot more where that came from.)

In a follow-up video to the spray-tan post, its clear that the exchange student fared much better than some of these other poor souls on TikTok. In it, @josiewhite201 films the teen as she gets her hair and makeup done and meets up with her prom date for photos  all with an amazingly gentle glow about her.

In response, many commenters said how beautiful the teen looked and complimented her spray tan.

THE SPRAY TAN, wrote one user. So beautiful!!!!

She kept thinking she was orange! the video creator replied. She will love your comment!

this is THE American high school experience, wrote someone else. LOVE.

Im crying! another person admitted. She looks so happy and absolutely gorgeous.

Heres hoping she had a fabulous time.

In The Know by Yahoo is now available on Apple News  follow us here!

The post Foreign exchange student describes first spray-tanning experience as the most American thing ever appeared first on In The Know.

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Photo: The Canadian Press This compilation photo shows Premier Danielle Smith (left) as she speaks at an economic forum in Calgary, Tuesday, April 18, 2023 and NDP Opposition Leader Rachel Notley as she addresses the Calgary Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

United Conservative Leader Danielle Smith apologized Monday after a 2021 video surfaced of her saying she wouldnt wear a Remembrance Day poppy while comparing those who got the COVID-19 vaccine to followers of Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany.

Alberta's election is set for May 29.

Smith, in a statement, said while the comment was made during her previous career as a journalist and pundit, any comparisons involving the horrors of the Nazi regime are offside.

As everyone knows, I was against the use of vaccine mandates during COVID, Smith said in the statement from her campaign.

However, the horrors of the Holocaust are without precedent."

She said in the statement that no one should minimize the suffering under Hitler or the sacrifice of veterans.

I have always been and remain a friend to the Jewish community, Israel and our veterans, and I apologize for any offensive language used regarding this issue made while on talk radio or podcasts during my previous career," the statement read.

"COVID was a divisive and painful period for so many, including myself, but is thankfully now over. I would hope we can all move on to talk about issues that currently matter to Albertans and their families."

Since becoming premier in October, Smith has been dogged by past statements, including saying people are responsible for contracting their own early-stage cancer and that the COVID unvaccinated have faced the most discrimination of any group she has seen in her lifetime.

Smith's comments from a Nov. 10, 2021, interview on social media resurfaced over the weekend. In it, Smith points out she is not wearing a poppy because of the actions of politicians during the pandemic.

They ruined it for me this year  the political leaders standing on their soapbox  pretending they understand the sacrifice and not understanding that their actions are exactly the actions that our brave men and women in uniform are fighting against," Smith said in the video.

Smith then moves on to compare those who received COVID vaccinations to those in Hitler's Germany who "succumbed to the charms of a tyrant, somebody telling them that they have all the answers."

Of the pandemic vaccinated, she says, We have 75 per cent of the public who say, Not only hit me, but hit me harder, and keep me away from those dirty unvaxxed.

We're already hearing about people being denied treatment for not being vaccinated, being taken off the organ donor list. What are we becoming?

It is diabolical.

Smith also faced questions Monday for a second video that surfaced from a speech she gave to party members at a Calgary rally Saturday in which she tips off her supporters that her government was set to announce the province would declare a state of emergency due to wildfires that have forced thousands to flee their homes.

Such a declaration allows the province to access additional funding and resources.

"I have to head off to have a press conference to declare our state of emergency," Smith is seen telling supporters on the video, obtained by The Canadian Press.

You guys are the first to hear about it, so you got a little bit of inside information."

Colin Aitchison, a spokesman for Smith in her role as premier, declined to answer an emailed question on why Smith felt it was appropriate to make the announcement to supporters before telling the public at large.

The decision was made by the Emergency Management Cabinet Committee prior to the press conference, said Aitchison.

Prior to the press conference, we also notified the NDP of the decision.

Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley, speaking to reporters in Calgary, said once cabinet makes a decision, the premier can disclose it when and how she wants.

This is more about the judgment that she is demonstrating by choosing to share it with a bunch of campaign supporters before she shares it with those Albertans who are so deeply impacted by this crisis."

Notley called the Nazi comments "utterly horrifying."

What we have here is a premier who is looking at over 75 per cent of Albertans who stepped up, who followed the (COVID) science and respected the requests that were made by public health officials to protect themselves, their neighbours and Alberta's most vulnerable citizens and everybody who needed our hospitals  and she's comparing those Albertans, 75 per cent of them, to the architects of an antisemitic genocide.

Albertans, you deserve better. You deserve so much better.
Former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) acting director Michael Morell misled the signatories on the letter falsely claiming Hunter Bidens laptop was Russian disinformation, according to a new report.

The New York Post published a report on Sunday revealing Morell told the 51 signers of the letter that he would "clear the statement with the Publication Review Board at CIA" the day following him reaching out regarding the younger Bidens laptop from Hell .

An Oct. 18, 2020 email obtained by the Post revealed that Morell asked the signatories, which included former CIA Directors John Brennan, Leon Panetta, and Mike Hayden, to sign the letter that he and former CIA agent Marc Polymeropoulos drafted.

WHITE HOUSE REPORTEDLY WORRIED OVER HUNTER BIDEN GOING ROGUE WITH LEGAL DEFENSE PLAN: LEGITIMATE HEADACHE

The New York Post published a report on Monday revealing former CIA acting director Michael Morell told the 51 signers of the letter that he would "clear the statement with the Publication Review Board at CIA" the day following his reaching out regarding the younger Bidens laptop from Hell.

Morell wrote that he "drafted the attached because we believe the Russians were involved in some way in the Hunter Biden email issue and because we think Trump will attack Biden on the issue at this weeks debate and we want to give the VP a talking point to use in response."

Additionally, Morell asked the signatories to "highlight" their "Russia work" in their signatures and said he would get the CIAs blessing to publish the piece "tomorrow."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Politico published the CIA letter on Oct. 19, 2020, the day after the email was sent, preventing an agency review of the letter before its publication.

Morell said in his email that he wanted to provide a "talking point" for President Biden ahead of his final debate with former President Trump three days later.

The letter also did not include the agencys disclaimer language separating itself from the views of the letters authors.

Morell said in his email that he wanted to provide a "talking point" for President Biden ahead of his final debate with former President Trump three days later.

The CIA did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's requests for comment on the report.

The revelation comes as the White House is reportedly "worried" over the presidents son going rogue in his legal defense strategy.

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The report claimed Friday that "tensions" between Hunter Biden and President Biden's aides over his legal defense have led Hunter Biden to hire a new lawyer for a more "combative approach" without consulting with his fathers legal advisers.

A former top Department of Justice spokesman noted that the younger Biden going rogue with his legal decisions and perhaps pushing past the "guardrails" that the presidents advisers would have him follow could be "a legitimate headache for the White House."

The tensions between Hunter Biden and the White House over his legal defense have risen as the presidents son is facing investigations on several fronts. Theres the DOJ investigation into his potential charges of tax fraud and illegally purchasing a firearm, investigations into his foreign business dealings by Republicans in Congress and also a child support court case in Arkansas.

Morell did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment for this article.

Fox News Digtial's Gabriel Hayes contributed reporting.
A former middle and high school teacher in the Olympia School District is facing trial on charges of sexual misconduct with a minor, child molestation and communication with a minor for immoral purposes, more than eight months after he was placed on leave and then fired from the district over a different situation.

Jonathan J. Moore pleaded not guilty to all three charges on March 7, according to court documents. A jury trial is scheduled for July 10. His bail was set at $25,000, which he posted the day after he was arrested in February.

According to court documents, the Olympia Police Department was first notified of the situation by a parent on Aug. 11, 2022. The parent said a friends daughter, who is referred to as the witness in court documents, said her friend was being touched sexually by Moore. The student victim, who is now 17, said he was scared to come forward and go to his parents directly about the situation that had begun years prior, according to court documents.

An OPD detective contacted administration at Capital High School on Aug. 12, and learned Moore had been placed on administrative leave as a result of other professional misconduct allegations raised by students. The district fired Moore Sept. 15 for matters separate from what led to Moores arrest, court documents say.

The case

The student victim spoke with a detective a few days later. He said it started when he was a student at Jefferson Middle School, where Moore taught digital media at the time.

When the student moved on to Capital High School, Moore did as well. He started teaching Visual Communications and Digital Design in September 2021. The victim said he and Moore began communicating through Skype and email, sending hundreds of messages back and forth.

The student said his relationship with Moore became sexual once he reached high school, and that their relationship in middle school was a grooming phase. He said Moore would demand he call him his boyfriend and tell him he loved him.

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According to court documents, Moore would call the student every night at 11:30 p.m. and they would talk until 1 a.m. The student said he had to hide who he was talking to from his parents, and during this time he started to fail classes. He said Moore started doing his homework for him, and that he still doesnt know algebra or geometry because of this.

Court documents say the topic of sex first came up between the victim and Moore when he was in middle school. The victim was 16 or 17 when sexual acts began, when the two of them would be together at the school after everyone had left. He said none of the interactions were consensual.

The student said at one point Moore threatened to harm himself if the victim wouldnt leave his friends or have sex with Moore. The victim said their physical contact ended in December 2021, but they continued to communicate into the following year.

OSDs response

According to court documents, the high school conducted its own investigation, which included several reports from witnesses stating Moore would make inappropriate comments to them about relationships and sex. The reports state Moore would threaten to fire students from the schools KOUG TV program if they had any contact with the victim.

The Olympian obtained an email sent to families in February addressing the situation. In the email, Jefferson Middle School principal Jane Allaire said ensuring the safety of students in an educational setting is their top priority.

The school district takes all allegations regarding risks of harm to students seriously, Allaire said. We want you to know that we are fully cooperating with law enforcement regarding this matter.

She said the district has staff training on professional boundaries. She said Moore had passed his background check before being hired by OSD, and he had completed annual required training for the six years he worked for the district.

Allaire reminded parents that there are resources available on the schools campus, including counselors who can provide support. She said students also can reach out to her directly. And if anyone has information related to Moores arrest, she encouraged them to contact OPD at 360-753-8300.
Rogozin a Stink

Dmitry Rogozin, the former head of Russia's space corporation Roscosmos, is no stranger to making head-scratching remarks. The outspoken politician, who was sacked from his post as the director of the country's space program last year, is now taking to Telegram to cast doubt on the fact that NASA landed a dozen astronauts on the Moon over half a century ago, as spotted by Ars Technica. According to his post, Rogozin asked Roscosmos during his tenure to provide him with "documentary evidence of the Americans' stay on the Moon." Despite his best efforts, he says, he found no evidence at the time. "It was not clear to me how the United States, at that level of technological development of the 60s of the last century, did what they still cannot do now?" he wrote.

Butting Heads
FRANCE2022-ELECTIONS-POLITICS-INFLUENCER-BERDAH-MEDIA

French influencer Magali Berdah poses in her offices in Paris on January 19, 2022. Credit - Geoffroy Van Der HasseltAFP/Getty Images

In recent years, a wave of high-profile scandals have hit Frances influencer sector.

Reality television star Nabilla Benattia-Vergara was handed a 20,000 fine for promoting Bitcoin to millions of Snapchat followers without disclosing that she was being paid to do so. Elie Yaffa, who raps under the name Booba, accused the influencer agent Magali Berdah of using her agency as a vessel to promote questionable products. And over 100 alleged victims came forward with a class-action lawsuit earlier this year, accusing French social media influencers of deliberately leading them to lose money on trading and NFT platforms.

The scope of social media scams reached beyond the headlines, with influencers pedaling everything from Botox fillers to gambling. Stephane Vojetta, an MP in Frances Assemblee Nationale, saw the repercussions first-hand. We had meetings with victims of scams from everything from medical malpractice to drop-shipping to cryptocurrency-based Ponzi schemes, says Vojetta.

More from TIME

Of course, the problem is not unique to France. The global influencer industry is set to become a $69.92 billion dollar industry by 2029, according to Data Bridge Market Research. But despite its rapid growth, there is little uniform regulation around the industry.

This year, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission charged celebrities like actress Lindsay Lohan and social media influencer Jake Paul for illegally promoting cryptocurrencies. In the U.K., Parliament launched an investigation into influencer culture that assessed, in part, the absence of regulation around product promotions. Influencer marketing has been gaining the attention of regulators worldwide, says Catalina Goanta, an associate professor at Utrecht University whose research focuses on how we govern digital society.

But France is set to become the first country in the world to legally define what an influencer is, as new legislation proposed by Vojetta and MP Arthur Delaporte aims to crack down on the types of products and services creators can advertise to their followers. The bill, which the government says is the first to provide a regulatory framework around influencing in Europe, was adopted by the lower chamber of Frances Assemblee Nationale in late March, and is likely to pass a looming Senate vote in May.

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In its current form, the resulting legislation will ban influencers from promoting cosmetic surgery, financial products and services such as cryptocurrencies, and counterfeit products. It will also force creators to disclose when they place filters on photos and videos that are ads. For promotions that involve gambling or betting, posters will be required to include an informational banner about the risks.

The Wild West of Frances Influencer Industry

In France alone, the influencer marketing industrya largely new economic sector that pays everyday individuals to promote products to their followersis worth an estimated hundreds of millions of euros. But the industry has never been formally recognized by the law, and is instead governed by laws designed for traditional marketing.

Frances Finance Minister, Bruno Le Maire, launched a public consultation in January to set up a framework for regulation. This is the first time in Europe that a comprehensive influencer regulation framework will be put in place. Le Maire said about the bill. The Internet is not the Wild West he told local media.

There were a lot of victims of scams from medical practice to financial advice. People lost hundreds or thousands of Euros or sometimes have substantial physical damage following wrongful medical procedures, says Vojetta. It was an opportunity to regulate the whole sector.

French influencers are already required to specify in their posts description if they are paid to promote a brand or product, but the practice is not always followed. In a study earlier this year, the countrys economy ministrys consumer protection bureau, the DGCCRF found that six of 10 influencers did not follow regulations. Under the new law, content creators would be required to include a disclaimer indicating that a post is sponsored as a banner across photos and videos, rather than just in the description or as a hashtag.

Nabilla Benattia outside an influencer dinner on April 24, 2019 in Paris, France. Edward BerthelotGetty Images)

Carine Fernandez, president of the Union des Metiers de lInfluence, one of the organizations which provided input during the bills creation, says that the practices focused on in the media are not representative of the industry as a whole. In France we mostly speak of a few reality TV influencers who have promoted scams or other bad practices on social media, she explained to TIME. These are the stories we hear on the subject, but they are only a handful of influencers. The influencer community is so much more than that.

Fernandez says there is a lack of understanding of the laws governing the sector. The new legislation will create a foundation for how influencers content will be regulated when it comes to advertising.

The benefit of this new law is that it will officialize the rules which already exist [in marketing] in the influencer sector, she says. Influencer is a new term that didnt exist in the law before.

Implementationand Imprisonment

The bill establishes a new legal status for commercial influencers, defined as individuals who use their reputation to share content that promotes a product or a service in exchange for money or a benefit-in-kind. But theres no easy boxes to check off when defining exactly who is an influencer, especially in such a rapidly changing landscape.

Trying to encapsulate that in a legal definition that is future-proof is difficult. says Goanta.

The Ministry of Economy has announced the creation of a task force dedicated to identifying infractions around commercial influencing. However, Goanta warns that this could be challenging to effectively monitor and implement in practice for a number of reasonsone being that follower count is no longer the only indicator of reach.

You can have very successful micro-influencers that have 20,000 followers, but have more engagement because people talk to them, she says. Do we want to monitor every single person who has 30,000 followers and didnt disclose the fact that they received leggings in the mail? says Goanta.

The bill considers influencers activities as advertising governable under French Consumer Law, closing a loophole that has long allowed influencers to turn a blind eye to regulations by recognizing the sector and explicitly defining the laws governing it.

We are not going to regulate influencers free speech on social media channels, said Vojetta. What we are going to regulate is the influence on social media used as an advertising channel.

Those who do not comply could face six months imprisonment and a fine of up to 300,000 euros. But beyond this judicial path, which is notoriously slow in France, the real deterrent will consist in actions that the platforms will have to undertake, explains Vojetta. This can include taking down posts and stories that violate the law, or removing users from their platforms altogether.

A Need for Regulation Worldwide

The E.U.s Digital Service Act, which went into effect last November, will be a key part in ensuring platforms comply in France. The DSA is wide in scope, and forces digital platforms to put measures in place to protect consumers from issues such as hate speech, online harassment, and faulty products from online marketplaces. Though the law does not explicitly cover influencer marketing, Vojetta says the French government is aiming to ensure that the measures are copied into French law and apply the same rules to breach of commercial influence regulation.

The E.U. has rules against misleading commercial practices in place, such as a 2005 E.U. Directive on unfair commercial practices, but regulation is still a creative procedural dance, Goanta notes. Theres an interpretation issue. We have rules, but its just about trying to interpret them in this very complex world of social media.

Thats why countries are beginning to put forward industry-specific regulations. A law passed in Norway in 2021 made it mandatory for influencers to disclose if they were posting retouched photos as part of paid promotions. The U.K.s inquiry into influencer culture last year called for, among other things, the creation of a code of conduct for influencer marketing and a study into the influencer ecosystem to better regulate future growth and manage rules around pay standards and practice.

Goanta says that piecemeal legislation will never be as powerful as global cooperation, especially in a world where virality is increasingly borderless.

An influencer might speak a specific language, but [their content] is never just about one country, she says. Their content is always international.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood have surprised fans with a brief reunion at the Eurovision opening concert.

On Sunday (7 May) night, the band came back together as Eurovision week kicked off in their home city of Liverpool with The National Lotterys Big Eurovision Welcome.

All five members of the groups original line-up  Holly Johnson, Brian Nash, Paul Rutherford, Mark OToole and Peter Gill  performed at St Georges Plateau, with the concert attended by 25,000 people.

However, the band, who last performed together 36 years ago, didnt play their biggest hits, such as Relax or The Power of Love.

Instead, they simply performed their 1985 song Welcome to the Pleasuredome from their first album of the same name. The song charted at No 2 in 1985.

Fans were left delighted  if a little baffled  by the performance and song choice, with many saying they didnt think theyd ever get to see Frankie Goes to Hollywood perform live.

Frankie Goes to Hollywood are suberb, I loved seeing them live again, should have done more that one song though! one attendee wrote.

Just one song from Frankie Goes To Hollywood. One song? Amazing to see them, but come on, another commented.

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One tweet read: Welcome Back To The Pleasuredome! Frankie Goes To Hollywood sounded amazing after 36 years. They played Pleasuredome (the song) and sounded like they were just warming up but that was it! More!

Well Frankie Goes to Hollywood only did one song but they were great and the event was spectacular, another commenter said.

The bands musical ability was widely praised, with one Twitter user writing: I hope that Frankie Goes To Hollywood do a reunion tour next year because they sound amazing.

The last time Frankie Goes to Hollywood played together at Wembley Arena in 1987, a fight is said to have broken out backstage between arguing band members Johnson and OToole.
The Garner Police Department is investigating a homicide that happened in a residential area just before 2 p.m. Monday.

Officers found a man who had been fatally shot on Kentucky Drive near Benson Road after a neighbor called 911 to report hearing gunshots and seeing a body, Capt. Christopher Adams said.

The mans name had not been released as of 5:30 p.m.

No witnesses of the shooting have come forward, Adams said.

There is no threat to the surrounding community, which includes several apartment buildings, police said Monday afternoon in a Facebook post.

Anyone with information is asked to call 919-890-7318 or email at gpdtips@garnernc.gov.
A 9-foot alligator wandered into someones fenced-in yard in coastal North Carolina and got stuck when the gate slammed shut behind it.

It happened Saturday, May 6, in Sunset Beach and the homeowner was lucky enough to notice the alligator before stepping out the backdoor. Sunset Beach is a coastal tourist destination about 175 miles south of Raleigh on the South Carolina border.

The alligator had unsuccessfully attempted to exit through the rails of the fence. The resident could tell the alligator couldnt get out, and decided it was time to call for help, police said in a news release.

Out of concern for the safety of the alligator officers came to its aid. The alligator wasnt happy, as it didnt realize (officers) were there to help.

Linda Townsend lives next door and called the three officers alligator wrestlers, sharing videos showing they were fearless as they pulled the hissing alligator from the yard with steel catch poles.

We think the gate wasnt latched, Townsend wrote on Facebook. She went in, it closed and she was trapped. They do not climb these metal fences.

Sunset Beach police report the alligator was loaded into the back of a pickup and returned to the neighborhood pond.

Alligators are native to the area and known to get as big as 13 feet and 500 pounds, the state reports. They are a protected species in the state and mate May through June. During those months, males are known to wander into unfamiliar turf in search of females.

Alligators are dangerous animals. Do not approach them or allow children to approach them. Alligators can move very quickly over short distances, police noted in their Facebook post.

Alligator living at Walmart in NC stirs debate, as many demand it be allowed to stay

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom went after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for conveniently failing to mention Texas soaring gun death rate as he tried to attack Californias gun control laws on Sunday.

Abbott (R), appearing on Fox News a day after a gunman and eight people were killed at a suburban Dallas mall, argued that gun violence affects all states, regardless of gun laws, as he tried to deflect attention from repeated Texas mass shootings.

I think that the state in which the largest number of victims occurred this year is in California, where they have very tough gun laws, Abbott said.

Greg Abbott on Fox News Sunday accidentally makes a case for stronger federal gun control: "I think that the state in which the largest number of victims occurred this year is in California, where they have very tough gun laws." pic.twitter.com/Xh6FgA4EvJ  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) May 7, 2023

Newsom (D) pointed out on Twitter that Abbott conveniently ignored the fact that Texas gun death rate is 73% higher than Californias.

He accidentally points to exactly why we need federal gun safety laws, Newsom said.

California has an A grade on the Giffords Law Centers annual gun law scorecard and ranks highest among all 50 states for gun law strength. The state ranks 43rd in the gun death rate, at 9 gun deaths per 100,000 people.

Texas received an F grade on the gun law scorecard and ranked 27th, with a gun death rate of 15.6 per 100,000 people.

Here is a clip in which @GregAbbott_TX:



1) Conveniently leaves out the fact that Texas gun death rate is 73% higher than CAs.



2) Accidentally points to exactly why we need federal gun safety laws. pic.twitter.com/pKOCW4UY7d  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) May 7, 2023

Saturdays mass shooting in Allen, Texas, was among over 200 mass shootings in America this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. There have been 14,780 people killed this year in gun violence.

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Newsom, in a tweet on Saturday, asked whether the Texas massacre was freedom as he called on Congress to take action.

To be shot at a mall? Shot at school? Shot at church? Shot at the movies? We have become a nation that is more focused on the right to kill than the right to live, he wrote.

This is not what the American people want. Do your damn job, Congress.

Related...
A group of Democratic Georgia state lawmakers is calling for a special session of the states General Assembly to address firearm-related public safety in the wake of two mass shooting incidents in the state.

In a letter to Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) Monday, the group mentioned two recent shootings in midtown Atlanta and Moultrie, Ga., writing these shootings are a clear demonstration of how Georgias firearm related laws are insufficient to protect our citizens.

For many years, the Georgia General Assembly has passed legislation that has made it easier for dangerous individuals and individuals experiencing mental health crises to acquire and possess firearms, the lawmakers wrote in their letter.

This legislation has been signed into law by you and your predecessors. At the same time, our communities have been forced to endure mass casualty events that have become more frequent and more deadly because of these laws.

The letter was signed by state Sen. Nabilah Islam (D) and state Reps. Pedro Marin (D), Gregg Kennard (D), and Ruwa Romman (D).

This is a public safety crisis, and it is our obligation as elected officials to address public safety. We understand that, among the elected members of the Georgia General Assembly, there are differences of opinion on how to address this crisis, but we believe that this crisis can no longer be ignored, the letter reads.

The lawmakers concluded by calling on Kemp to immediately and without delay call a special sessionto specifically address firearm-related public safety.

The letter comes a week after a suspect opened fire in an Atlanta-area medical office, resulting in the death of one woman and the injuries of four other individuals. Authorities arrested Deion Patterson, 24, and charged him with one count of murder and four counts of aggravated assault.

Another shooting took place in Moultrie, Ga., later that week, when a man opened fire inside the McDonalds restaurant where he worked, killing his manager before taking his own life. Authorities said that Kentavious White, 26, also shot and killed his mother and grandmother at their homes.

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Kemp has been a staunch opponent of gun control during his more than four years in office. Ahead of the Republican primary last year, he signed into law a bill allowing permitless carry of firearms in Georgia.

Kemp said at the time the law makes sure that law-abiding Georgians, including our daughters, and your family too, can protect themselves without having to have permission from your state government.

However, Democrats at the time accused the governor of putting politics ahead of the safety of Georgians.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has blasted President Joe Bidens student loan forgiveness plan as "very unfair." Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has decried the policy as unconscionable, wrong and out of touch. "Un-American" and "socialism" are the words Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has used.

Yet, all three Republican governors offer at least one state program for student loan forgiveness or repayment.

Theyre far from the only ones.

NBC News reviewed student loan forgiveness policies in states in which a Republican governor has called for an end to Biden's plan or a Republican attorney general has sued to stop it.

The examination found that the vast majority of those states actually offer their own taxpayer-funded student loan forgiveness programs. Nearly as many have seen Republican-sponsored bills in the current legislative sessions to expand those programs or create new ones.

Last year, Republican governors in 22 states signed on to a letter demanding Biden immediately withdraw his student debt forgiveness plan. Weeks later, a group of six Republican-led states sued the Biden administration in federal court, seeking to block implementation of the plan  one of two suits heard by the Supreme Court, whose decisions in the next two months will determine the future of the program.

But 20 of the 23 states that signed the letter and/or sued have at least one  and in most cases, several  state programs that offer student loan forgiveness or repayment.

And in 17 of the 23, there is at least one GOP-sponsored bill in the current legislative session that proposes expanding an existing or creating a new program to offer student loan forgiveness or repayment.

Advocates for student loan forgiveness say that the position held by officials in these Republican states amounts to hypocrisy. They point to the fact that many Republican leaders seek to criticize Biden but not their own states or legislatures for carrying out plans with similar ends.

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The first thing that jumps out at me is the hypocrisy, said Natalia Abrams, president of the Student Debt Crisis Center, a nonpartisan nonprofit group that advocates for the total cancellation of all federal student loan debt.

Republican officials in states with existing loan forgiveness programs and proposals to expand them, however, say theres a difference between blanket loan forgiveness and efforts by their own states seeking to shore up various shortages in certain professions by offering financial incentives. They also claim that their state programs are constitutional, while Bidens is not. His program, they say, amounts to overreach by the federal government.

But one of the most prominent Republican criticisms has been that loan forgiveness provides an "unfair" advantage to people who still held debt over others who had paid theirs off already or decided to forgo college altogether.

"College may not be the right decision for every American, but for the students who took out loans, it was their decision: able adults and willing borrowers who knowingly agreed to the terms of the loan and consented to taking on debt in exchange for taking classes," the 22 Republican governors wrote in their joint letter. "A high-cost degree is not the key to unlocking the American Dream  hard work and personal responsibility is. For many borrowers, they worked hard, made sacrifices, and paid off their debt. For many others, they chose hard work and a paycheck rather than more school and a loan."

Advocates point out that the state programs offered in most of those governors' states nonetheless provide the very kind of loan forgiveness they have disparaged.

Republican politicians are speaking out of both sides of their mouths, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., said in a statement to NBC News. Their hypocrisy shows what hardworking Americans already know to be true: canceling student debt is urgently needed and widely popular.

Bidens program would cancel up to $10,000 in debt for borrowers earning less than $125,000 a year (or couples who file taxes jointly and earn less than $250,000 annually)  regardless of their profession or location. Pell Grant recipients, who are the majority of borrowers, would be eligible for an additional $10,000 in debt relief.

The existing state programs  as well as the proposed programs and expansions  all apply, or would apply, student debt forgiveness and repayment to people working in specific professions or areas.

For example, the five states that both sued the Biden administration and whose Republican governors demanded the president withdraw the program  Nebraska, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa and South Carolina  currently have in place, altogether, at least 10 programs that are partly or completely funded by the state that offer student loan forgiveness or repayment for specific professions, including teachers, nurses and health care professionals in rural areas.

Republican legislators in those states have sponsored bills this year that include expanding those programs to mental health care professionals in Iowa and Nebraska, to public health professionals and veterinarians in Missouri, to more teachers and doctors in rural areas in Arkansas and to law enforcement officers in South Carolina.

Texas, whose governor and two GOP senators have all blasted Bidens plan as unfair, currently offers at least nine targeted student loan forgiveness plans  to certain nurses, doctors, teachers, legal aid attorneys and employees of the state attorney generals office  while another 11 bills have been offered by Republican state lawmakers in the current legislative session. Those proposals include expanding the existing student loan forgiveness policies to nurses and creating new programs to help forgive student loans for math and science teachers, attorneys in rural areas, mental health professionals and other workers.

Georgia  the home state of GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who blasted Biden's plan as "unfair" despite having had millions in federal loans of her own forgiven  currently offers one student loan forgiveness plan, for doctors in rural areas, while Republican lawmakers in the Legislature have so far put forward at least five bills that would offer student loan forgiveness for peace officers, health care workers, nurses and staff of the states General Assembly.

Nevertheless, the GOP governors in both  Brian Kemp, of Georgia, Greg Abbott, of Texas  signed on to the letter demanding Biden withdraw his own student loan forgiveness plan.

NBC News reached out to all the Republican governors in the 22 states that signed on to that letter, as well as the six Republican attorneys general in the states that sued to block the plan.

Many defended their states' programs by claiming there was a prominent difference, both in substance and legally, between the broader policy offered by Biden and the more targeted policies offered by their states  though none of the officials who responded addressed questions of why it was acceptable for states, but not the federal government, to forgive debt.

Several also reiterated one of the legal arguments used in the suit against Biden: that the White Houses plan is illegal and unconstitutional because it circumvents Congress, which they say has the sole power to create laws related to student loan forgiveness, and because it incorrectly relies on a decades-old law the Biden administration has maintained allows it to cancel loans to counter the economic effects of the Covid pandemic.

A one-size fits all student debt relief program for Ivy League graduates that bypasses the legislative authority of Congress and is formed by executive fiat is in no way comparable to legislation designed to attract and grow a top-tier workforce that can fill the crucial public safety and healthcare related positions and is carefully considered by the State House and Senate, Garrison Douglas, a spokesperson for Kemp, the Georgia governor, said in a statement.

Unlike President Bidens unconstitutional executive fiat, Floridas Nursing Student Loan Forgiveness Program is authorized by Chapter 1009.66, Florida Statutes, Jeremy Redfern, a spokesperson for DeSantis, said in a statement.

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach said in a statement that there was no hypocrisy at play in his offices decision to sue Biden despite the state having several student loan forgiveness plans on its books because, One is unconstitutional and the other is not.

The executive branch of the federal government does not have the unilateral authority under the U.S. Constitution to forgive the loans and spend the money to pay the debt without an act of Congress, he said.

Alexa Henning, a spokesperson for the Arkansas governor, said that the federal program and Arkansas student loan forgiveness programs were not even remotely similar.

As the Governor said, what Joe Biden did is socialism and unconstitutional, he wants those who didnt go to school or already paid their loans to retroactively pay off hundreds of billions of dollars of other peoples debts, she said in a statement.

NBC News also reached out to 20 of the dozens of Republican legislators who have offered bills in their current sessions to expand upon or create new state programs that offer student loan forgiveness. None agreed to be interviewed, though one aide did respond to questions.

Jason Moyer, chief of staff for Texas state Rep. Frederick Frazier, who sponsored a bill expanding a student loan forgiveness program for certain teachers, said that his bosss proposal doesnt have any comparison to student debt forgiveness on the federal level.

Its tuition reimbursement, but the federal program is so much broader, he said.

That distinction, however, doesnt ring true for student loan advocates.

You know, it all depends on what they want to label overreach, Abrams, of the Student Debt Crisis Center, said referring to Republicans. And it seems to come down to whos the messenger with that."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Nola Ade makes music for healing. Its catchy and sumptuous and unique, something to move the listener, both emotionally and physically. And thats just how she likes it.

But getting to this state in her creative career took some time. Born and raised in Chicago, Ades musical journey began at a young age as a member of the choir. Throughout her childhood, shed perform during school or local talent shows, but Ade said she didnt fully come into her identity as a musician until after college and law school. After all the school that I went to and everything, I just was like, Look, this is all that I have. This is all I really want to do, she explained.

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Music, for her, was more than just a means of expression.

I believe that my purpose right now is to do music. Whether that leads to something else, Im not sure, she said. I have no idea if I will end up merging music and law one day, but I feel like right now, Im presently where God wants me to be. And thats where Im trying to live. Im trying to live in the present and let God lead me and show me where to go.

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She wants to go is in the direction of healing others. Part of that stems from actively healing herself, too. When shes making music  when shes deep in the songwriting process and collaborating with other artists  she feels both a drive to do more and a channeling of possibility. Perhaps it will be her lyrics about the complications of life or her melodies soothing the listeners ear that will bring comfort to others.

Its the gratifying feeling of helping someone through music through song, she said. And it just always just feels really good.

Last month, Ade released her latest EP, Royal. In sound, the new collection of songs differs from her first EP, The Love Dance, which was a familiar mix of soul and R&B. On Royal, Ade has incorporated more jazz and Afrobeats to create a genre she calls Afro-soul music. And while Afrobeats as a sonic choice has risen in popularity around the world within the last five years, Ades new sound is not just trend-chasing. She grew up listening to all types of music, from hip-hop to rock to pop and R&B. At home, her parents exposed her to Afrobeat pioneers like Fela Kuti as well as other African artists in different genres.

Chicago musician Nola Ade has a new EP titled "Royal." (Anthony McCray)

I just grew up listening and learning and just loving music. These are Nigerian types of music, like Highlife music, Fuji music, and it just really is a part of who I am, Ade explained. When I started to grow and understand everything, I was just trying to figure out a way to merge the two. Like, how do I merge where I come from ethnically and where I was raised and born?

With that intention came the creation of Royal. Work on the EP began in 2021. Ade, an atypical songwriter, uses her phones voice memo function to record bits of music when she is out and about. Later, she will return home to her studio where she either looks for music to pair with the melody or works with a producer to create a whole new beat around her sound.

Whatever the method, she leans into the process that feels as organic to her as possible. Its been a little trickier, with Royal, which was largely crafted online through working with overseas producers, compared with The Love Dance, which incorporated an abundance of live sound.

Despite those challenges, Ade said leaning into her roots  the sounds and rhythms and melodies that sound most natural to her  has made for a more explosive sound for the listener. The tracks, like the title track Royal and centerpieces Energy and We Are (Children of Freedom), are upbeat, feel good songs that transport and excite.

There are a lot of uplifting lyrics and a lot of uplifting words that people can take and apply to their own lives that people can really relate to. Because were all going through something. And its about knowing how to encourage yourself and knowing how to get yourself out of certain slumps, she said. I had to learn that in the journey writing this EP, and I hope that people can really take that away for themselves as well.

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Royal is out now on streaming platforms.

Britt Julious is a freelance critic.
Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty

Republicans in state legislatures are working around the clock to make it harder for students to vote.

Earlier this month, Florida politicians rushed a bill through committee that would stop people from voting by mail if they dont have a verified Social Security number, a valid state-issued drivers license, or a Florida ID card. These new rules could deter thousands of college students who attend school in Florida from voting by mail.

This February, a bill in the Texas legislature was introduced by a Republican member that would forbid polling locations on college campuses throughout the state. Then in March, Idaho lawmakers used their power to ban voting with student IDs.

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And in Georgia since 2006, the state has only accepted student IDs from public colleges and universities, meaning students at several historically black universities in the state must use another form of identification.

Voting for college students is difficult. I know because I experienced it up close.

When I was in college prior to the 2016 presidential election, I was a voter registration organizer in upstate New York. Despite the states reputation for strong voting rights laws, the forms were an absolute nightmare to fill out.

The addresses that could be listed on the registration forms were endlesswas it their dorm address? The student P.O. box where they received their mail? The college campus address? Or their childhood home? And to make matters worse, many first-time voters hadnt yet changed their IDs from their home states.

The process was maddeningly complex, and a stark reminder of the real obstacles that young people face when exercising their right to vote. Given this reality, our politicians should be making it easier for Gen Z to vote, not harder.

But Republicans are attempting to do the exact opposite.

Earlier this month at a Republican retreat, conservative lawyer Cleta Mitchellwho advised former President Donald Trump on his plans to overturn the 2020 electionshared her strategy to suppress the youth vote. Mitchell launched into an extensive diatribe, complete with a 50-slide Powerpoint presentation, telling conference attendees that they needed greater scrutiny of these college campus locations and polling. They basically put the polling place next to the student dorm, said Mitchell. And we need to build strong election integrity task forces in these counties.

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As we saw in Arizona during the 2020 election, when a far-right group launched an election integrity task forcethey sent two armed men in tactical gear to patrol voting drop boxes in Maricopa Countythese Republican election integrity task forces are rarely about the safety and security of elections; theyre a smokescreen to make voting more difficult. And with Republicans lagging success with Gen Z voters, this new strategy makes sense.

Elon Musk Is a Sentient Poop Emoji

Take a look at the last midterm election, where exit polling showed strong youth support for Democrats, typically on issues like climate change, reproductive rights, and gun control. Voters aged 18-24 voted 61 percent for Democrats, while the 25-29 age group voted 65 percent blue.

In the wake of the recent state Supreme Court election in his home state, where Republicans lost, even former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker acknowledged the GOPs disconnect with Gen Z voters in an interview with Fox News. To me the larger issue hereweve seen it particularly in Wisconsin but across the countryis younger voters. In Wisconsin, last fall, we saw about a 40-point margin that younger voters gave to the Democrats running for Senate and governor. We saw similar margins in Pennsylvania, said Walker.

Knowing this, you would think Republicans, like any rational politicians, would come up with a better way to reach young voters. While they have put in some effort, its mostly been with absurd fringe groups. For example, Turning Point USA (TPUSA), a right-wing group for young people with close ties to the Trump administration, released a urban engagement activism kit during the last election with awkward Fresh Prince of Bel-Air stickers and a poster that reads, No one raps about staying broke. (Gen Z voters, by definition, are too young to have watched the original Fresh Prince while the show was on the air.)

But this isnt newconservatives have a history of suppressing voters they can't win over.

Republicans are well aware of their shortcomings with Black voters in Wisconsin, and have fought tooth and nail to make it harder for them to vote. In majority-minority communities like Milwaukee, they've filed lawsuits to outlaw ballot drop boxes and prevent clerks from filling in missing information on ballot envelopes. In a Trump campaign team meeting in 2020, the Wisconsin staff joked about their outreach to Black voters: Have we ever talked to Black people before? I dont think so.

Is This How Tucker Carlson Runs for President?

With a presidential election on the horizon, Republicans are hyper-aware of Gen Zs voting power. Although young voters in past elections have been inconsistent, Gen Z in the last midterm election put Republicans on notice. And since the GOP cant win young voters on the issues they care about, so voter suppression strategies used for decades to suppress minority voters are now being copied and pasted to suppress Gen Z voting.

But this cant last forever. Republicans are well aware that their archaic policy ideas alone won't bring in new voters. That's why they're scrambling to enforce these oppressive voting laws. They know that this new breed of Americans could boot them out of their cushy seats of power in a heartbeat.

And if members of Gen Z continue to exercise their democratic rights with the same zeal they demonstrated in 2020 and 2022, those politicians who support voter suppression laws will soon be kicked to the curb. The future belongs to Gen Z, sooner than later.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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On Monday, Governor Ron DeSantis signed three bills aimed at reducing the Chinese governments impact in Florida.

The measures will restrict land ownership in Florida by Chinese citizens, ban the use of Chinese-owned social media platforms such as TikTok and WeChat on government devices and further limit colleges and universities from building relationships with foreign countries of concern such as China.

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DeSantis said the legislation, which will take effect July 1, makes it very clear we dont want the CCP (the Chinese Communist Party) in the Sunshine State.

They have established a position of economic might, of industrial hegemony, and their military is far stronger today than it was 20 or 25 years ago, DeSantis said during a bill-signing event in Brooksville They have a leader whos very ideological and is intent on expanding CCP influence, not just in their region but even around the globe.

I signed the strongest legislation in the nation to stop the influence of the Chinese Communist Party. The legislation:

- Prohibits land purchases by the CCP

- Blocks access to CCP-linked apps on government and educational institution servers and devices

- Prevents the CCP from pic.twitter.com/bDSMCjy0fZ  Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) May 8, 2023

DeSantis, who has been working to build international credentials ahead of an anticipated presidential run in 2024, blamed elites in our own country who for a generation have favored short-term profits with China. He did not specify the individuals.

Lawmakers passed the measures targeting foreign countries of concern --- China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria and Venezuela --- during the legislative session that ended Friday and drew opposition from some Chinese Americans.

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The most-contentious measure (SB 264) seeks to largely prevent Chinese citizens from purchasing land in Florida. The legislation would allow Chinese citizens with non-tourist visas to acquire single parcels that are under two acres and located at least five miles from military installations.

In voting against the legislation last week, House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell, a Tampa Democrat who is an attorney, called the bill overly broad and warned it could result in lawsuits by veering into the area of national origin discrimination.

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The legislation also seeks to prohibit governments, citizens and businesses from foreign countries of concern from acquiring agricultural land in the state. Also, it will prohibit the sale of property located within 10 miles of military bases and other critical infrastructure --- seaports, airports, power plants and water treatment facilities --- to interests tied to the Chinese government or other foreign countries of concern.

Meanwhile, DeSantis signed a bill (SB 258) that expands on a September 2022 executive order directing the state Department of Management Services to create a list of prohibited social media applications that it considers security risks and to block access on state-owned wireless networks. The bill came amid a national debate about restricting access to the widely popular TikTok app for security reasons.

Also, DeSantis signed a measure (SB 846) that, in part, will ban state colleges and universities and employees from accepting gifts from such things as colleges based in foreign countries of concern. It also would restrict state colleges and universities from entering into agreements with their counterparts in foreign countries of concern.

State university system Chancellor Ray Rodrigues touted the new law as preventing certain countries from being able to exploit the academic freedom that we have here in Florida.

If a college or university entered into an agreement without approval, the State Board of Education or the university systems Board of Governors could sanction the schools or withhold what is known as performance funding, which can amount to tens of millions of dollars in some cases.

The law expands on a 2021 law that created new reporting requirements for entities seeking grants or contracts from the state.

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Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Tex.) has become the face of a certain kind of non-response to gun violence. (Eric Gay / Associated Press)

Greg Abbott of Texas continues to make a strong case for being the nations most inept governor. The latest mass shootings in his state mark a shameful low point.

Its not just that hes a gun owner and a Republican, because lets face it, elected officials from both parties cash gun-lobby checks. Its his very public mishandling of the gun-violence epidemic that sets him apart.

Abbott is the governor who posted an infamous tweet Oct. 28, 2015, celebrating guns, and he has kept it online as it gets more and more cringe-worthy. It was still up Sunday morning, the day after a gunman opened fire at an outlet mall outside Dallas. At least eight dead. At least seven others wounded. And yet there is Abbott on the record:

I'm EMBARRASSED: Texas #2 in nation for new gun purchases, behind CALIFORNIA. Let's pick up the pace Texans. @NRA https://t.co/Ry2GInbS1g  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) October 28, 2015

Texas had 18 mass shootings the year he tweeted that, according to the Gun Violence Archive. As a country, we lost 468 people to 372 mass shootings in 2015, including one the day that Abbott posted that tweet. Mass shootings occurred most days: 220 to be exact. The other 145 days we cleaned up the blood, had our thoughts, said our prayers and waited for the next one.

Abbotts clumsy response to the school shooting in Uvalde last May was not a fluke. He didnt meaningfully respond at all . He didnt even postpone a fundraising event the evening of the shooting. This is who this man is.

Last month, after a family was gunned down, Abbott callously dehumanized the victims by calling them illegal immigrants. This was not a misstep on his part. This is who this man is.

His latest attempt to change the subject is especially rich.

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One thing that we can observe very easily is that there has been a dramatic increase in the amount of anger and violence that's taking place in America, Abbott said on Fox News Sunday. And what Texas is doing, in a big-time way, we're working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause, which is addressing the mental health crisis behind it.

In 2022, Texas was ranked last in the country in overall access to mental health care, according to data analyzed by Mental Health America. A shameful statistic, but not surprising considering that Abbott has cut $211 million from the department in charge of his states mental health programs.

In 2015, Abbotts first year as governor, he recognized Mental Health Awareness Month in part by saying : Ensuring timely access to effective treatment is beneficial not only for individual well-being, but also for our society as a whole, resulting in countless cost savings in the healthcare, criminal justice, housing and family services fields.

Indeed. Abbott identified the problem aptly, but then he made it worse.

To review: The governor who identified the importance of his states mental health services later took $211 million from them. The governor who gutted mental health care now says it is the key to preventing mass shootings.

Thats Abbott.

The governor who used his office to make it as easy as possible to get guns has also expressed concern about the Mexican cartel presence along the border. As if his policies didnt play a role in arming them.

The governor who crowed about gun proliferation in 2015  and tagged the NRA as if seeking approval  had the nerve to say recently what we've seen across the United States over the past year or two." As if anything about these mass shootings is a new phenomenon.

So dont get your hopes up when he says some of the right things about mental health care. Abbott has shown us who he is, and he wont be part of the solution.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
St. Paul's Episcopal Churh in Fort Benton. The Big Sky Country National Heritage Area financed a brochure describing the church's historic stained-glass windows.

The Big Sky Country National Heritage Area headquartered in Great Falls is offering five $1,000 grants to assist community groups with projects relating to central Montana history, culture, arts, and recreation.

The heritage area serves residents of Cascade County and a portion of Chouteau County, including Fort Benton. The grants are made available through the heritage area's Partner Project Fund and can be used to help cover the costs of interpretation and education programs at schools, museums, or other organizations, and historic preservation projects that stabilize, rehabilitate, restore or reconstruct a historic property or landscape.

Projects must be located in Cascade County or a portion of Chouteau County where the heritage area is to be located. For details on how to apply, visit the website bigskycountrynha.org or the groups Facebook page.

Last year, the heritage area distributed nearly $5,000 in grants of up to $1,000 each to assist the following projects:

Help volunteers in the town of Neihart build a replica fire tower and install its historic fire bell.

Finance a brochure describing the elegant stained-glass windows in St. Pauls Episcopal Church in Fort Benton.

Finance renovations to the historic Mandan keelboat located along the levee walking trail in Fort Benton.

Finance training for a young man learning to be a powwow announcer at the 2022 Little Shell Pow Wow.

Sponsor the first Native American artists who created a mural of the Native American Powwow princess during the 2022 ArtFest in downtown Great Falls.

Mural of the Native American Powwow princes sponsored by the Big Sky Country National Heritage Area during the 2022 ArtFest in downtown Great Falls.

In 2022-23, the Big Sky Country National Heritage Area also donated $10,000 donation for an architectural and engineering study of the Boston and Montana Barn, an aging but historic structure that is the last vestige of the Boston & Montana Consolidated Copper and Silver Mining Co. The company began building a smelter in Black Eagle in 1890, which went on to become the Great Falls areas largest employer for half a century.

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Big Sky Country National Heritage Area entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Great Falls to transfer these funds, which were from private donors who support the NHA effort. The contribution helped the City-County Historic Preservation Advisory Commission finance an $18,000 contract to determine how best to stabilize the aging structure until renovation plans can be designed.

For more information on the Big Sky Country National Heritage Area, visit its website, bigskycountrynha.org or its Facebook page.

This article originally appeared on Great Falls Tribune: Great Falls Heritage Area offers historic preservation grants
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) said the state would focus on addressing mental health problems behind gun violence, but didnt address calls for gun reform after another devastating mass shooting at a shopping center this weekend.

Eight people were killed and at least seven others injured at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, on Saturday after a gunman opened fire on the crowded facility. Authorities identified the shooter as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, who was killed by a police officer on the scene.

It was the second mass shooting in Texas in recent weeks after another gunman killed five of his neighbors in Cleveland, Texas, after they asked him to stop firing his weapon at home.

The twin shootings have renewed calls for increased gun control at both the state level in Texas and nationwide. But Abbott alluded Sunday the rise in gun violence is linked to a dramatic increase in anger and violence, not access to firearms, even after Fox News host Shannon Bream cited a poll showing strong support for increased gun control measures.

WATCH: @GregAbbott_TX joined us to discuss the deadly shooting in Allen, TX and preparations for the end of Title 42. pic.twitter.com/5roMNNsvzD  Fox News Sunday (@FoxNewsSunday) May 8, 2023

What Texas is doing in a big-time way, we are working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause which is addressing the mental health problems behind it, the governor said on Fox News Sunday, adding there have been shootings in states with easy gun laws as well as states with very strict gun laws.

People want a quick solution, Abbott continues. The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

Texas has had the highest number of mass shootings of any state in the country so far this year.

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The governor has faced fierce criticism from Democrats, who have pointed to GOP-led efforts to make gun purchases even easier in Texas. State Sen. Roland Gutierrez (D) said Sunday he was disgusted with the governor and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R) for doing NOTHING to keep us safe.

There is a special place in hell for people who watch all this happen and choose to do nothing. #bloodontheirhandshttps://t.co/AgY0r91liR  Senator Roland Gutierrez (@RolandForTexas) May 7, 2023

President Joe Biden this weekend asked Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines after the mall shooting, saying he would sign such legislation immediately if it reached his desk.

We need nothing less to keep our streets safe, the president said.

Related...
Police continue to investigate the mass shooting - Getty Images

Texas police on Sunday were investigating what motivated a 33-year-old gunman to kill at least eight people at a mall over the weekend, as President Joe Biden called for stricter gun laws.

The Texas Department of Public Safety on Sunday confirmed the identity of the assailant in Saturday's shooting as Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old resident of Dallas, Texas.

Police said Garcia killed eight people and wounded at least seven on Saturday afternoon at Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, a northern suburb of Dallas, before he was killed by police.

Federal officials were looking into whether the gunman expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe Garcia used and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

Mourners visit a memorial next to the Allen Premium Outlets - Getty Images

The killings were the latest in at least 199 mass shootings that have occurred in the United States so far in 2023, according to the nonprofit group Gun Violence Archive, which defines a mass shooting as any in which four or more people are wounded or killed, not including the shooter.

In a statement on Sunday, Mr Biden renewed calls for the US Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as to enact universal background checks and end immunity for gun manufacturers.

The president noted that Garcia had been wielding an AR-15 rifle and wearing tactical gear.

People held up signs about guns during a vigil in remembrance of those that were killed - Shutterstock

By Sunday evening, Texas law enforcement had not released any details about a possible motive, or the identities of the victims.

A local ABC News affiliate reported that investigators had found several handguns, long guns and ammunition inside Garcia's car at the scene of the shooting.

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A family member identified one of the slain victims on social media as Christian LaCour, a security guard.

"We watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman," Kellie Smith wrote in a Facebook post on Sunday, identifying LaCour as the brother of her daughter-in-law.

"Words cannot even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels."

Allen police said three wounded victims were hospitalised in a critical condition and at least three were hospitalised in a fair condition, including one at a children's hospital.

The assailant fatally shot eight people, including at least one child, before a police officer killed him, police said on Saturday.

A graphic 10-second video was circulating on Twitter on Saturday, showing several dead bodies slumped against a planter and white wall bearing the sign of retailer H&M. At least one of the victims, lifeless and bloody, appeared to be a young child.

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Hammed Animashaun: I definitely didnt think this role was mine (The Other Richard)

For Hammed Animashaun, this years birthday is one for the books. The actor turned 32 on Saturday 6 May, and celebrated the launch of his new buddy cop series, Black Ops, the night before. Honestly, its like a dream come true, he says with a wide grin. The zany comedy, which is the brainchild of Bafta-winning Famalam stars Gbemisola Ikumelo and Akemnji Ndifornyen, sees Animashaun and Ikumelo play two police community support officers who find themselves way out of their depth when theyre sent off to infiltrate a drug-shifting gang.

Combining slapstick comedy with thriller suspense, Black Ops is just the sort of project that Animashaun has always wanted to be part of. Plus, collaborating with people hed long admired was the cherry on top of the cake. I moved things in my schedule, he says, wiping clean his imaginary calendar with his hand. I made sure that I was able to have this chance to work with them [Ikumelo and Ndifornyen]; its really something I can tick off the bucket list. So enthralled was he, Animashaun didnt think he actually had the part for months, despite being present in the shows earliest development stages. I definitely didnt think this role was mine, he says, laughing. I was like, Im just a placeholder for someone with a bigger name, someone more established.

Although Animashaun has been a working stage actor for at least a decade, with several stints at the National Theatre in shows such as Barber Shop Chronicles (2017) and Master Harold and the Boys (2019), hes still getting used to a life on screen. Outside of Black Ops, his most notable TV role has been that of an ogre-like creature named Loial in the Amazon series The Wheel of Time in 2021, which he will reprise later this year. A lot of good things are happening, he says, nodding vigorously.

The actor is self-effacing and effusive in a way that feels wholly genuine. He fizzes and pops, all dancing eyebrows and warm laughter. Anecdotes flow out of him. Gbemi would probably say I can tend to be a bit annoying at times, especially during early morning calls, he says of his screen partner. At 4am, shed already be getting her make-up done in the trailer, everyones tired, but Ill come in with my Bluetooth speaker like, Morning everyone!

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He shares this unyielding positivity with his Black Ops character, Kay. A counterpoint to Ikumelos jaded and droll Dom, Kay is a glass-half-full, God-fearing gentle giant and the opposite of street-smart. When Dom whines that Kay is about as useful in times of danger as a chocolate teapot, you wince at her harshness... but its hard to disagree. Animashaun is aware that, unfortunately, many wouldnt expect such a sensitive character upon first look. I definitely was interested in showing a different side of what people might expect when they see a big Black dude on telly, he says plainly. Hes not out here trying to be on road like that; he just wants everyone to be happy.

As much as the shows punny title, Black Ops, refers to the pairs embroilment in a covert, unauthorised mission, theres also a clear nod to the characters race. And with a long-documented history of institutional racism in policing across the globe, Dom and Kays involvement with the force means that, to some, theyre seen as Black opps  enemies, and sell-outs, of the Black community.

Black Ops has so many different meanings, Im not going to tell you what we thought the title meant, Animashaun says, giving a cryptic shrug. But its good for people to make up their own minds. Hopefully, the show will start a conversation about the differences that can be made when theres a positive relationship between the community and the police. Though hesitant to delve too deeply into his own feelings towards the police, Animashaun has previously shown his support of protests that call out racist policing on social media. In the show, Kays job as a PCSO is grounded in bettering relations between the police and the wider community, but in reality, Animashaun thinks that while there is hope for genuine change, were far from seeing it yet.

I dont think that just sticking a label onto someone and saying Go into the community is enough, he ponders. Theres more to it. Things are changing. A lot of things have happened in the past few years, especially with what happened with George Floyd. I think things are changing, but its a slow process. Thankfully, Black Ops doesnt shy away from the imperfections of police departments. One early scene shows Kay and Dom treated with suspicion and stopped when trying to enter staff quarters, despite having been members of the team for years. With the writers we had, they of course stayed truthful to what really happens and what could happen within the police, he says. We dont stray away from the truth in this show, but we also stay true to the funny.

Total chaos: Animashaun and Ikumelo in Black Ops (BBC)

Many of Animashauns roles have seen him exercise this comedy bone. From a customer in need of a trim in Inua Ellams Barber Shop Chronicles to Bottom in A Midsummer Nights Dream, he tends to shine brightest when his characters are rooted in levity. Its something hes been drawn to ever since cutting his teeth in youth theatre as a teenager. I always loved making people laugh, he says simply. And if a job can be fun as well as fulfilling, its all the better for it. This business can be really hard, he explains. When you are working, I always make sure I enjoy myself as much as I possibly can, because I dont know how long this thing is gonna last!

Going out on Friday evenings on BBC One, Black Ops sits comfortably in the scheduling spot of some of the networks previous comedy heavyweights, including Gavin and Stacey, Little Britain and My Family. Knowing that this show has the chance to be seen by millions across the country, Animashaun has high hopes for the future of British TV. It means a huge step forward for every creative of colour in the industry, to know that its possible, he says. AK and Gbemi have been working for so long to be able to create a project like this. And theyre not stopping.

If I ever get a no, thats not going to stop me from pursuing what I want to pursue

But he doesnt want to give the industry too big a pat on the back for platforming Black-led shows. The mention of BBC One primetime, I try not to get too caught up in that. For me, it should have happened ages ago, he says. Im like, Its about time, rather than Im so pleased. When people tune in, theyll understand why it should have happened ages ago. We worked really hard on this, and Im really excited for people to see it and enjoy themselves. Regardless of the fact that there are three Black leads, its a good laugh!

Animashaun thinks the show will be a success. Hes optimistic, too, about his career. But even if he encounters any hiccups in the grand plan, the actor is determined to keep pushing for a CV filled with joyful characters.

If I ever get a no, thats not going to stop me from pursuing what I want to pursue. Thats just one no; theres another door over there. Im gonna keep going, he says matter-of-factly. This is what I do; this is what Ive been doing. I love to perform, I love to act. Why would I do anything else, and why would anyone try to stop me?

Black Ops airs at 9.30pm on Fridays on BBC One
Forget about both sexism and ageism as prime forces behind the highly vocal movement pressuring longtime Democratic U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein to retire early from the seat she has held since 1990.

Sure, these factors are present in varying degrees. So is the fact that Feinstein has been absent from the Senate more than two months this spring, recovering from a painfully severe case of shingles.

But the actual root purpose of this months-long campaign is an effort by the relentlessly uncompromising hard left of the California Democratic Party to take over a key post it could not win at the ballot box.

This real prime mover became obvious in an appeal the ultra-leftist California Courage Campaign emailed to all its members early this month, seeking to galvanize them against Feinstein.

That was because so-called progressives have long felt the moderate Feinstein deprived them of her seat when last reelected in 2018.

The hard left is dominant among this states Democrats because no other interest has lately turned out significant numbers for the 80 Assembly district caucuses where delegates to the partys state conventions are chosen.

Back in 2018, ultra-leftist delegates led the party not to endorse Feinstein for a fifth full term, which she is about 18 months from finishing. Instead, they backed former Assembly Speaker Kevin de Leon. Hes best known these days for his role in a secretly recorded racist conversation last fall with then-Los Angeles City Council President Nury Martinez, then-Councilman Gil Cedillo and then-local labor federation chief Ron Herrera.

De Leon, unlike all others on the notorious tape, refuses to resign his prominent post, a high-paying city council seat he won after Feinstein beat him soundly. He insists he will serve out his term before leaving.

De Leon, shown by the audio to at least condone overt racism, was bitterly ageist in his run against Feinstein. He claimed her age (now 89) made her unfit for the job years before anyone noticed any problems with her health, physical or cognitive.

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Despite the party endorsing against her in both the primary and the general elections that year, voters twice gave Feinstein huge margins.

That thwarted leftist ambitions to take over her seat as they strive for full political control of California.

Now the left wants shingles to award it via an appointment what it could not win at the polls. Leftists for two years have ripped Feinstein for supposed mental lapses and for having friendly exchanges with  gasp!  Republican senators.

More recently, they accused her of letting her shingles-induced absence hold up confirmation of dozens of President Bidens judicial appointees.

Days before a tentatively scheduled mid-May return to the Capitol, Feinstein shot back in a press release that The Senate continues to swiftly confirm highly qualified individuals to thejudiciary, including seventhis week.

She noted eight judges were confirmed during her absence, while Republicans are holding up only a few.

With just a one-vote Judiciary Committee majority, Democrats need Feinsteins vote to send those nominees to the Senate floor for final confirmation.

Who are the folks most active in trying to oust Feinstein, presumably in favor of the ultra-liberal Oakland Congresswoman Barbara Lee, who might be appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom if Feinstein leaves? That could happen because Newsom promised two years ago he would name a Black woman to the next Senate vacancy, and the African-American Lee wants the job so badly she's already running against the far-better-funded Rep. Adam Schiff of Burbank and Rep. Katie Porter of Irvine.

A quick Feinstein departure could give her seat to Lee for more than a year, allowing her to campaign as an incumbent.

The Courage Campaign lists just one Californian among the most prominent leftists attacking Feinstein: Silicon Valley Rep. Ro Khanna, by odd coincidence Lees campaign co-chair. Others include most of the congressional squad: Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Rashida Tlaib of Michigan and Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts. These, with Lee, are among the least compromising leftists in the current House.

Which means this is at root not about age or inability or absenteeism; its about ideology, just like it was in 2018, when the leftists lost badly.

Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com.

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Hard left behind retire-Feinstein drive
The end of the 2022-2023 school year is rapidly approaching, but the exact date school ends in Florida varies in each county.

Florida statutes and administrative codes outline school start dates, how long a school year lasts, holidays and more.

Youll find a full list of dates for every county below.

When does school start for the 2023-2024 year?

Like end dates, schools will start on different days depending on the county. Most schools will start on Aug. 10, per Florida Statute 1001.42(4)(f), which states that schools may not start earlier than Aug. 10.

Florida school report cards: See how your child's school fared

How long is summer break in Florida?

Summer break in Florida lasts around 11 weeks, with most schools ending on May 26 and starting up again on Aug. 10.

How long is the school year in Florida?

Florida Administrative Code 6A-1.045111 states that the school year is 180 days, and the hour full-time equivalent is 900.

Florida school bills: These 3 state bills may have a big impact on Escambia schools. One is costing millions.

What holidays are schools closed for?

Florida schools have around eight holidays per year, with some special considerations like elections, primaries, Veterans Day and maintaining a hurricane buffer occasionally adding more time off.

Labor Day  Monday, Sept. 4, 2023

Up to two fall holidays  Varies

Thanksgiving break  Typically week of Thanksgiving (Nov. 20-24)

Winter break  Dec. 25 - Jan. 5, varies by county

Martin Luther King Day  Monday, Feb. 19, 2024

Spring break  March 18-22, varies by county

Spring holiday  Varies

Memorial Day  Monday, May 27, 2024

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: When does school end in Florida for the 2022-2023 academic year?
Jinkx Monsoon and Peppermint

The drag artists featured on the Drag Isnt Dangerous telethon collected way more than just a few dollar tips.

The Drag Isnt Dangerous digital event aired for nearly five hours on Sunday, May 7. At the end of the night, the telethon raised a total of $523,000. That number has gone up on Monday, May 8, with a current total of $536,087 on the events official GoFundMe page.

Cohosted by Peppermint, Justin Martindale, Alaska, and Adam Shankman, the Drag Isnt Dangerous telethon featured guest appearances from celebrities such as Charlize Theron, Jesse Eisenberg, Billy Eichner, Marcia Gay Harden, Leslie Jones, Orville Peck, Sarah Silverman, Johnny Sibilly, Adam Lambert, and Michelle Visage, among others.

Queens like Trixie Mattel, Bob the Drag Queen, and Alaska livestreamed the event through their YouTube channels, which can now be rewatched on the platform.

Drag Isnt Dangerous also had both pre-taped and live performances from the likes of Idina Menzel (singing Lights from Next to Normal), Peaches (singing Pat Benatars Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Trixie Mattel (singing Malibu), Bob the Drag Queen (singing B*tch Like Me, Jinkx Monsoon (singing The Lavender Song), and Ginger Minj (singing I Am What I Am from La Cage aux Folles).

Overall, this was an emotional, fun, campy, and very important event for the LGBTQ+ community. It was also fabulous to see that so many allies showed up to support drag artists and trans people during these scary times.

One can hope that this anti-drag and transphobic rhetoric will go away soon. For the time being, the best we can do is stay strong, be visible, and raise money to help our community.

You can still donate to the Drag Isnt Dangerous initiative via GoFundMe.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace after their coronation, in London, Saturday, May 6, 2023. (CHRIS Jackson GETTY IMAGES/AP)

The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla drew over 14 million viewers to the BBC on Saturday, the network has announced.

The BBC brought people across the UK together to share a once in a generation event with over 14 million watching the King being crowned live, Charlotte Moore, chief content officer for the BBC, said in a statement. Im proud of the unique and special role the BBC plays in delivering audiences moments of such huge historical significance and the celebrations continue with our Coronation Concert tonight.

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Peak viewership of the coronation on BBC One was 13.4 million, while the accessible signed version of the coronation on BBC Two peaked at 1.7 million. Average audiences across the two networks were 11.9 million and 1.4 million, respectively. For reference, the population of the United Kingdom is 67.3 million.

Sky News also revealed it had garnered 8.4 million views for its coverage of the coronation, a figure that included both linear and streaming numbers. Across Sky News and Skys flagship channel Sky Showcase the broadcast reached 2.32 million with an additional 6.2 million views online via its app, website and social channels (including YouTube). The Sky News app alone recorded 4.27 million video views in a day, its highest ever.

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Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year, Charles immediately rose to King. However, the May 6 coronation symbolized Charles acquisition of regal powers, a mostly ceremonial event in the modern age.

Guests gathered at Westminster Abbey to watch Charles coronation, including his sons Prince William and Prince Harry, his daughter-in-law Catherine, the Princess of Wales, his grandchildren Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte, and his siblings Princess Anne and Princes Andrew and Edward. Prince Harrys wife, Meghan Markle, was notably not in attendance.

A blend of high-profile guests attended the coronation, including British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, among others. The festivities will continue with the Coronation Concert Sunday evening, featuring performances by Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Take That.
The father shed tears remembering the dreams he had for his son.

His son Nicholas Alexander Alex Clinkscales II was 15 months old when he died from a button battery that lodged in his esophagus and burned through the tissue.

The boys father testified last month in a lawsuit against the childs Columbus pediatrician, alleging she misdiagnosed him by not suspecting a foreign object.

Taking the witness stand in Muscogee State Court, Nicholas Clinkscales said he had looked forward to teaching his son to play baseball, like his dad.

I was in the process of teaching him how to catch, said the father, who once had a good arm, before separating his shoulder: I could throw a ball through a shower and not get it wet.

He also had imagined teaching the boy math: I didnt have anybody to teach me math. I had to figure that out on my own, he said.

He did not know when or where the toddler got the button battery, only that after three visits for medical treatment, the boy was rushed to the emergency room with blood gushing from his mouth, and died there.

His parents were grief-stricken, their dreams for their son broken.

The jury awarded them $4 million.

The danger

Nicholas and Shameka Clinkscales son died in the emergency room on Nov. 19, 2014. The lawsuit claimed he likely ingested the coin-sized battery as early as Nov. 1, though an expert for the defense disputed that.

Neither side in the court case disputed the danger button batteries pose to children. Around 3,000 children on average swallow them each year in the United States. Piedmont Columbus Regional has reported three battery ingestions in the past year, according to its pediatric emergency department.

A study published in the journal Pediatrics in August 2022 found that 12% of children swallowing batteries had to be admitted to the hospital, after being taken to the emergency room, and that battery ingestions had doubled over a decade.

From 2010-2019, a child with a battery-related injury showed up at a U.S. emergency room every 75 minutes, on average, twice the frequency reported in the years 1990-2009, the research showed, and 85% of the cases involved button batteries.

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Button batteries power multiple devices: TV remote controls, singing greeting cards, key fobs, flameless candles, hearing aids, bathroom scales, and novelty jewelry that lights up. In some gadgets, theyre easily dislodged. Lithium batteries about the size of a nickel, marked CR2025, CR2032, CR2330 or CR3032, can block a childs esophagus, if swallowed, and then react to body fluids. 05/04/2023

Most of the children swallowing batteries are five years old or younger.

Many times theyre just hand to mouth, said Pam Fair of the nonprofit Safe Kids Columbus, a chapter of Safe Kids Worldwide, which aims to prevent accidental childhood injuries. Theyre going to explore with their mouths. Thats just what they do.

Button batteries power multiple devices: TV remote controls, singing greeting cards, key fobs, flameless candles, hearing aids, bathroom scales, and novelty jewelry that lights up.

In some gadgets, theyre easily dislodged. Lithium batteries about the size of a nickel, marked CR2025, CR2032, CR2330 or CR3032, can block a childs esophagus, if swallowed, and then react to body fluids.

When the battery is stuck in the esophagus, it creates a current, so it burns the tissue, said Dr. Rebecca Reamy, chief of pediatrics and medical director of the pediatric emergency department at Piedmont Columbus Regional. It creates a chemical reaction to the mucous membrane, which is the lining of the esophagus and also the lining in the nose, and that creates tissue breakdown.

It can be fatal because of the location.

The esophagus sits right in front of the aorta, and so it can burn through the esophagus into the aorta, which is the biggest artery in the body, and the child can literally bleed to death in seconds, she said.

Even after the coins removed, damaged tissue may come apart, she said, noting a girl in South Carolina died after the extraction. The problem is at that point, theres nothing you can do, she said.

If their esophagus is separated, children who survive the ordeal need a feeding tube to the stomach, said Fair: Your esophagus doesnt lead food to your stomach anymore.

If the battery passes through the esophagus, it may stick at the opening to the stomach, another tight space, Reamy said.

If it makes it through that muscle, its usually going to pass the rest of the way on its own, she said. Doctors will monitor its progress to be sure it does not stick in the intestine, she said.

The three-volt battery that typically sticks may look like a coin, but an X-ray clearly shows the groove around its edge, Reamy said, so its easily distinguished.

Doctors have a device for retrieving it through the throat.

They go in with a scope thats got a little camera and grabbers on it, so they grab it and pull it out, and then they can see how everything looks down there, Reamy said.

Dr. Rebecca Reamy, chief of pediatrics and medical director of the pediatric emergency department at Piedmont Columbus Regional, talks about the dangers of button batteries during a recent interview with the Ledger-Enquirer. 05/04/2023

How long do you have?

Despite the damage they do, button batteries may not instantly produce signs of distress, particularly used batteries that have lost much of their charge.

The symptoms, such as sore or red throat, difficulty swallowing, not eating, vomiting or drooling, may appear to be an infection or other ailment.

Its tricky because its coughing, drooling and discomfort, said Fair. That could be theyre getting their teeth in. It could be so many things.

The Clinkscales sued Dr. Susan Ellen McWhirter and Rivertown Pediatrics, claiming she should have suspected a button battery when she examined their son on Nov. 6, 2014.

The suit alleged he likely swallowed the battery on Nov. 1, when he threw up. He was taken to urgent care that day, diagnosed with pharyngitis, and prescribed an antibiotic.

His parents took him to Rivertown Pediatrics on Nov. 4, when he saw another doctor who still thought he had acute pharyngitis and a viral infection.

During his next visit two days later, McWhirter also suspected a viral infection, and prescribed another antibiotic. Her diagnosis was consistent with the symptoms she saw and what she knew of his previous exams, she testified in court.

Kids that have infections are sick typically for a couple of weeks, she said.

Had she suspected a button battery, she would have sent him to the hospital right away, she said: If you even think they might have swallowed a battery, you go to the emergency room.

That warnings repeated in all sources on battery ingestion: The child must go to the emergency room immediately, even if the caregiver only suspects a button battery was swallowed.

Even if you suspect, you cannot wait, you must go ahead and find out.... Times ticking, Fair said. The last thing you want to happen is for it to sever that esophagus.

Parents should not try to make the child throw up or wash the battery down, said Fair. If they want immediate advice, they may call the National Button Battery Ingestion Hotline at 1-800-498-8666.

Online warnings say the battery can cause damage within two hours. A defense expert testified during the Clinkscales trial that the reaction can start in five or 10 minutes.

The expert was Dr. Ian Jacobs, of the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. He doubted the boy swallowed the battery weeks before his death. I think this was a short-term ingestion, said Jacobs. He thought it was within a day or two of the childs death, he said, though he acknowledged that long-term battery blockages are possible.

What to do

Keeping track of button batteries is crucial.

The main thing is just to be aware of where they are, and to try to keep your children from playing with those things, said Fair. Dont make it a habit of letting your child play with the TV remote.

Stowe batteries where kids cant find them, and keep count of them, to ensure none go missing, she said. If a button batterys in a device thats regularly used, like a TV remote, secure the battery compartment with some duct tape, and check other gadgets that may have one.

Manufacturers are more securely packaging the batteries for retail sales, and adding a coating to give them a bitter taste, she said. But a bad taste may not deter a child.

Fair recalled a patient who ate powdered kitchen cleaner, because the green can looked like a Parmesan cheese dispenser, and the contents shook out the same.

The child I think said to the parent, Mommy, I dont like this cheese, she said.

Pam Fair is director of Safe Kids Columbus. 05/02/2023

She said parents should be cautious of the places their children visit. For example, another poisoning risk is prescription drugs, which older adults may leave sitting out so they remember to take them.

Children may face a poisoning risk wherever they spend time. That just has to be discussed, Fair said.

Reamy said childrens toys can have button batteries, though thats less common now.

They used to routinely be put in a lot of toys, including stuffed animals that make noise, that kind of thing, she said. We dont allow any toys to be donated that have button batteries in them.

After the trial

The Ledger-Enquirer asked each side in the button battery lawsuit for comment on the outcome.

McWhirter was represented by the law firm Huff, Powell & Bailey, which on her behalf sent a statement that reads in part:

We are considering our post-trial options at this time. Regardless of the trials outcome, we hope that it brought increased awareness to the dangers of button battery ingestion in children and the severe injuries that can result.

Though attorney Audrey Tolson of the Tolson Firm, the Clinkscales sent a statement that in part said:

Before this happened, we had no idea about the dangers of button batteries for children. When Alex suddenly began refusing food and having a hard time swallowing, we did everything we could to advocate for him by taking him to three doctors in five days.... The lawsuit was never about money for our family. We simply wanted to continue to stand for Alex.

They hope their sons loss will illustrate the danger of button batteries to other parents and medical providers, they wrote:

This has been a long and painful fight for our family. Fortunately, we have found strength in knowing that if our willingness to fight could make just one pediatrician pause and think a little bit longer before dismissing a childs symptoms, or if it could help educate just one parent about the dangers of button batteries and how to protect their own children, then our sons death was not in vain.
REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov

A near-collision between a Russian military plane and a Polish aircraft has forced NATO to put its air police on higher readiness, a NATO official told The Daily Beast.

The incident occurred over the Black Sea near Romania on Friday, when the Polish aircraft was conducting a patrol as part of its responsibilities with Frontex, the European Unions border agency. Frontex is headquartered in Warsaw, Poland.

NATO air policing detachments were put on higher readiness in response to the dangerous behaviour of a Russian military plane in the vicinity of a Polish Frontex aircraft over the Black Sea near Romania on Friday, the official told The Daily Beast. NATO remains vigilant.

The official did not answer questions about what NATO assesses of Russias intent in the incident.

The Russian jet, a Su-35, made three aggressive and dangerous maneuvers toward the Polish plane, according to the Polish Border Guard. The Polish crew lost control and altitude as a result, the Polish Border Guard said on social media.

According to the crews assessment, the Russian plane was only five meters away at one point.

Niebezpieczne zdarzenie z udziaem #samolotSG i rosyjskiego mysliwca.

Rosyjski SU35 wlecia bez kontaktu radiowego na teren operacyjny wyznaczony przez Rumunie,wykona agresywne i niebezpieczne manewry,w wyniku ktorych zaoga #funkcjonariuszeSG utracia kontrole i wysokosc

1/ pic.twitter.com/ZCDQtndyH2  Straz Graniczna (@Straz_Graniczna) May 7, 2023

The units on higher level of readiness are Spanish aircraft assigned to the air policing mission in Romania, the NATO official said.

Russian aircraft frequently conduct unsafe and unprofessional flights near other countries aircraft, according to U.S. officials. Some of these maneuvers could lead to unintended escalation, according to U.S. officials. In March, that behavior began increasing, U.S. officials have said.

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The news comes just weeks after a Russian Su-35 aircraft conducted an unsafe and unprofessional intercept with an American F-16 aircraft over Syria, according to the Pentagon. The latest incident also comes two months after a Russian Su-27 aircraft conducted an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver, ultimately hitting a U.S. drone over the Black Sea. The U.S. Air Force aircraft, MQ-9, was completely downed after the incident given the damage it sustained.

In the MQ-9 incident, the Russian aircraft spewed fuel in front of the drone in a provocative move.

At the time, Russia denied it had acted unprofessionally and that it hit the U.S. drone. Russian officials said the drone fell after making a sharp maneuver and claimed it was flying towards Crimea, the peninsula Russia seized from Ukraine in 2014.

John Kirby, a White House National Security Council Coordinator, said at the time that these kinds of moves will not deter the United States from operating over the Black Sea even as Russia continues to wage war in Ukraine.

If the message is that they want to deter or dissuade us from flying and operating in international airspace, over the Black Sea, then that message will fail we are going to continue to fly and operate in international airspace over international waters, Kirby said in March.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Kern County firefighters and rescue teams set up a rope system to remove the body of a hiker who fell from the Woodland waterfall trail. (Kern County Fire Department)

A hiker died after falling about 10 feet down a waterfall on the Woodland waterfall trail near Mt. Pinos, according to the Kern County Fire Department.

Rescue crews arrived at the scene about a half-mile from the trailhead around 2:30 p.m. Friday and found the body of the hiker 30 feet above the base of the falls on a rock cropping, the Fire Department said in a statement.

Fire Department and Kern County sheriff's rescue personnel constructed a rope system to safely retrieve the body.

The body was transported to the coroner and has not been identified. The Kern County coroner's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A Hilton Hotel manager was arrested and charged Friday for entering a guests room and sucking on the customers toes.

>> TRENDING: 2 juveniles, adult secured following shooting in Huber Heights

David Neal, 52, was charged with aggravated burglary and assault for entering a male guests room and sucking on his toes Thursday, March 30.

Nashville Police were dispatched shortly after 5 a.m. to 121 4th Avenue South, where a Hilton Hotel resides, a spokesperson for the citys police department stated.

While investigating a complaint, officers discovered that Neal, working as a night manager at the time, made a key card and entered the guests room.

The guest then woke up to find Neal sucking on his toes, which he immediately confronted.

The guest recognized Neal because the day before, he came into the room with another employee to fix an issue with the television, the spokesperson informed.

Neal claimed that he entered the room because he smelled smoke and was checking on the victim. However, the night manger did not report this issue to security. Furthermore, no other resident reported smelling smoke.

When officers asked where the room key was, Neal replied that he threw it away, the spokesperson said. The room key was never recovered.

Nashville Police Central Precinct detectives led the investigation and issued warrants against Neal.

He was arrested at his Lebanon, Tennessee, residence.

Neal is currently in jail, to be released on a $27,000 bond.
The makeshift drones are small in size but cheap, easy to make, and deadly. Scott Peterson/Getty Images

Ukraine's homemade self-destructing drones are carrying around bombs attached with zip ties and tape.

Once launched, these single-use drones can't land safely, The New York Times reports.

Drones have played a major role on both sides of the war, striking enemies behind the front lines.

Homemade Ukrainian drones are carrying bombs held on with zip ties and tape. The single-use drones can't land safely once armed and launched, but they can decimate larger, more expensive targets.

These makeshift aircraft have become a common part of Ukraine's reconnaissance and firepower, the New York Times reported. One drone pilot, Private Yevhen, told the New York Times the drones are cheap, only costing a few hundred dollars, compared to the $20,000 drones Russia has reportedly used.

Ukrainian troops typically reconfigure civilian racing drones from the Chinese company DJI, attaching as much as two pounds of explosives with zip ties or tape, The New York Times reported.

The makeshift additions make it impossible to land the single-use drones safely after troops begin operating them.

Still, Ukrainian Maj. Kyryl Veres told The New York Times that he sees "huge potential" for weapons.

The overall system might be crude, but it's effective. The drones can be flown miles behind enemy lines, destroying valuable targets and dropping bombs on unsuspecting soldiers, the New York Times reported.

Drones have seen use on both sides of the war, devastating forces at the front lines and beyond. But Ukraine has capitalized on the technology, relying on drones as an unusual element in combat.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Canadian man who threw gravel at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a 2021 election campaign has been sentenced to 90 days of house arrest and 12 months of probation.

The Ontario court also ordered that Shane Marshall cannot be within 100 metres of the prime minister.

Marshall was associated with an anti-vaccine mandate political party protesting against Mr Trudeau's covid-19 policies.

He pleaded guilty to common assault.

During a campaign stop in September 2021 in London, Ontario, Mr Trudeau was met by protesters who were opposed to Covid-19 vaccine mandates and other restrictions.

Marshall, a former official with the People's Party of Canada, was among them.

As the prime minister was returning to his bus, Marshall threw a handful of gravel at him though Mr Trudeau was not injured.

Calling the assault a "manifestation of mob mentality", Justice Kevin McHugh said that "acts of violence against our public figures are anti-democratic and need to be denounced in the strongest terms".

In addition to probation and house arrest, the judge on Monday also ordered Marshall, 26, to undergo counselling.

During closing arguments last week, Marshall's defence lawyer argued that his client had no prior criminal record and that he was dealing with anger management issues when he threw the gravel at Mr Trudeau.

"The act of throwing stones was impulsive," said lawyer Luke Reidy. "Shane Marshall understands what he did was wrong."

Mr Reidy suggested that Marshall be handed a one-year suspended sentence and mandatory community service.

The Crown's lawyer, however, argued that Marshall's actions were an assault on Canada's democratic institutions, and had requested that he serve 30 days in jail.

Marshall was originally charged with assault with a weapon, but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of common assault in March.

He had apologised "to everyone" for his actions in court, though he did not address Mr Trudeau specifically.

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Shortly after the incident, Mr Trudeau said the actions of the protesters at his campaign event were "absolutely unacceptable".

"Nobody should be doing their jobs under the threats of violence or acts that put them in danger," he said.

The incident was also denounced by Mr Trudeau's opponent and Conservative leader at the time, Erin O'Toole, who described it as "disgusting".

Another election rally for Mr Trudeau was cancelled in August 2021 after a crowd of angry protesters ambushed the event.

Mr Trudeau and his Liberal party were re-elected to a minority government in October 2021.
(Bloomberg) -- The Republican-controlled House Foreign Affairs Committee threatened Secretary of State Antony Blinken with contempt of Congress if he doesnt turn over a diplomatic cable related to the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.

In a letter dated May 5, committee Chairman Michael McCaul said the State Departments efforts to comply with a March 28 subpoena seeking an unredacted copy of a so-called dissent channel cable and the official response were insufficient. He gave Blinken until Thursday to hand over the cable.

Should you fail to comply, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding, McCaul said in the letter.

The State Department said it had tried to work with McCaul on the issue, giving the committee a classified briefing on the cable as well as a written summary of its contents. Spokesman Vedant Patel called the latest threat unnecessary and unproductive.

Read: GOP Lawmaker Hammers Blinken Over the Chaotic Afghan Withdrawal

The dissent channel allows US diplomats around the world to comment on and criticize US foreign policy directly to superiors in Washington. Blinken has argued that providing the actual cable, rather than summarizing it or briefing on its contents, might discourage diplomats from using the channel in the future.

The exchange is the latest back-and-forth on the highly charged issue of the Biden administrations withdrawal from Afghanistan after the Trump administrations negotiations with the Taliban led to an effective hard end date for the US combat mission there.

As the US readied its departure, Taliban insurgents quickly overran the US-backed national army, while the US and other nations organized last-minute airlifts of nationals and Afghan support personnel. That chaotic operation was captured most vividly by images of desperate Afghans running alongside and climbing aboard a US military transport plane as it taxied along the runway at Kabuls airport.

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Since Republicans won the House in midterm elections and took control of the Foreign Affairs Committee, lawmakers such as McCaul have seized on the Afghan withdrawal  as well as a terror attack during the exit that killed US service members  to criticize the Biden administrations foreign policy record. That includes an interim report on the Afghan withdrawal titled A Strategic Failure.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
House Republicans are still wrangling their members to get behind a sweeping border bill they plan to pass this week.

Once they can pull that off, theyre going to face even bigger problems in the Senate.

The House GOP legislation is stocked with items on the partys immigration wish list, from restarting construction of a southern border wall to placing new restrictions on asylum seekers. Even so, Republican leaders are still lining up the GOP votes they need amid concerns over the bills treatment of worker databases and cartels.

Passing any bill would mark a political victory for Speaker Kevin McCarthys conference, which punted a plan to pass border legislation in the first weeks of their majority as they navigated open infighting within their ranks. Republicans view border security as a potent wedge issue heading into the 2024 campaign  and underscoring that strategy, theyre timing a Thursday vote on their bill to the expiration of a Trump-era border policy that lets the U.S. deny asylum and migration claims for public health reasons.

But should the House GOP muscle its bill through, the win would be largely symbolic. Thats because, across the Capitol, GOP senators are warning that House Republicans will have to make concessions if they want to get a bill to President Joe Bidens desk.

Its a start, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), an adviser to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, said of the House bill in a brief interview. But I think everybody understands that, in order to get 60 votes in the Senate, its going to have to change.

And the question is, what does that look like? Cornyn added. Will Senator Schumer agree to let us take it up, and will the House accept those changes?

The two chambers are miles apart: While the Senate is months or more away from even starting immigration negotiations, House Republicans are still working to get conservatives and more centrist-minded members aligned. That task isnt fully done even as the GOP prepares to take the bill to the floor: Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) said in a statement for this story that Americans who care about border security should be deeply disappointed in House Republican leaders over the proposals treatment of drug cartels.

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Crenshaw added that the only mention of the cartels in this bill is a study of the cartels that may actually give the Biden administration a pathway to make our immigration crisis exponentially worse, noting that multiple members have raised worries that are being ignored by leadership as they try to rush this bill to the floor.

A spokesperson for Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) said Monday that he will vote against the border bill over its treatment of e-verify" technology designed to help companies confirm employees' immigration status, and an aide to Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.) said he's "expressed concerns to leadership" about the e-verify provision.

The White House on Monday threatened to veto the House bill if it reaches Biden's desk as is, arguing it would make things worse, not better.



House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) said hes still talking with conference members on the measures e-verify provisions. And while he didnt rule out changing the bill in order to get it to Bidens desk, Scalise observed that the Senate  where the filibuster requires lawmakers to work across the aisle on most issues  hasnt been able to get the necessary 60 votes this year on a range of topics, not just the border.

We at least are going to show how we can pass something, Scalise said in an interview. If there are senators, Republican and Democrat, who want to help solve the problem, weve laid out a path to do it. If theyve got better ideas, I want to start seeing their ideas.

On that front, behind-the-scenes conversations are happening between members in both chambers. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), who helped negotiate a deal on the House bill, has been in touch with a bipartisan group of senators, including Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) and Cornyn. Sinema and Tillis also took a trip to the border earlier this year with Reps. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), David Valadao (R-Calif.) and Gonzales.

Senate talks about a larger immigration bill are active but sporadic, as Tillis put it. But senators arent deep enough into talks that they are ready to horse-trade over what a proposal would have to include in order for it to clear the chamber.

Three Senate Democrats who would likely be integral to any deal that could pass  Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.)  each separately said theyve seen few signs of movement on their side of the Capitol.

I believe its a very positive step. And there are elements of the framework that were going to have to consider to get votes on the Senate side, and were constantly working with the House, Tillis said of the House bill, while cautioning that were talking months before we would have a vote on that.

Congress is under renewed pressure to act on border legislation, a long-sought but elusive goal for more than a decade now, thanks to bipartisan fears that the Thursday end of the public health-related border policy known as Title 42 could spark an onrush of migration along the southern border.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas warned Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press that he was working within significant constraints, urging lawmakers to provide his agency with additional resources. The administration is taking its own steps, including sending 1,500 additional troops to the border.

While the House GOP bill is expected to get little if any Democratic support this week, some in the presidents party are signaling interest in negotiating on border policy.

Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kansas) wrote to Mayorkas on Monday asking the Homeland chief and the White House to join me in engaging in these conversations with Republicans. And Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) told reporters late last week that he likes parts of the GOPs bill while opposing others: Im hoping that we can sit down and work those out.

Tillis, Sinema, Cornyn and Manchin rolled out a bill late last week, first reported by POLITICO, that would grant a temporary two-year authority to expel migrants from the U.S., similar to what is currently allowed under Title 42.

Despite its timing, the legislation isnt designed as a response to the House bill; aides involved in Senate conversations about a broader border proposal say theyre continuing on a separate track.

Meanwhile, Republicans have hammered the Biden administration over repealing Title 42  rhetoric that GOP aides predicted would escalate this week as the policys expiration date nears.

Tillis predicted, as the option of restricting migration on public health grounds evaporates, a growing sense that if the presidents not going to put any other option on the table, that its going to be unsustainable, unsafe and politically unwise.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) phrased it more succinctly in an interview: First thing we need to do is not repeal Title 42, he said. We should deal with the asylum problem. Thats the magnet, right?

Asked about the next step to address the influx of migrants, Graham added: Chaos.

Olivia Beavers contributed to this report.
Gov. Jay Inslee visited King County Monday afternoon to sign into law a large package of housing-related bills passed during the 2023 legislative session.

This session our legislature needed to go big so people could go home, Inslee said. And our Legislature  Im happy to say  has gone big this year so people can go home.

The governor added that homelessness is a housing crisis while also noting that the behavioral health system needs to be improved as well.

But fundamentally we dont have enough roofs for people to be under in the state of Washington, the governor said.

Lawmakers allocated over $1 billion dollars for the 2023-25 biennium for housing to help construction keep pace with the more than one million homes that are estimated to be needed in the state over the next 20 years.

Democratic and Republican lawmakers said at the beginning of the 2023 session that they were committed to working together to pass important housing legislation, and many of the housing bills received support from lawmakers of both parties.

Rep. Jessica Bateman, D-Olympia, attended the bill signing.

They said that 2023 was going to be the year of housing and we did not disappoint, Bateman said. Over 50 bills were introduced this session related to housing. These were bipartisan and bicameral and they were all aimed at creating more homes for Washington.

She said that building housing will now be easier because of streamlined development regulations, permitting and design review.

Trevor Johnson, who represented the private sector at the signing as chief executive officer of Blackwoods Builders Group, said, These actions today and through the hard work of our state legislators this session gave us the tools and flexibility to put our shared values into action. This gives our children the opportunity to put down roots in the communities they were raised in.

The governor was expected to sign House Bill 1474 later Monday. That bill address the history of housing discrimination due to racially restrictive real estate covenants.

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According to the bill, more than 40,000 property deeds in Washington include racially restrictive covenants. This legislation creates the Covenant Homeownership Account and program. The bill was sponsored by Rep. Jamila Taylor, D-Federal Way, and several other House Democrats.

Here are the bills the governor signed early Monday afternoon.

HB 1074: Under this piece of legislation, landlords will be limited on withholding deposits from tenants after move-out. Landlords can no longer withhold any part of a deposit for wear resulting from ordinary use, carpet cleaning (unless the landlord can document that the damage is beyond normal wear), or for fixtures and appliances unless those items were previously documented in good condition when the tenancy began.

Additionally, landlords must show documentation to substantiate any claims of damages. The bill also extends the timeline that landlords can provide documentation for damage claims from 21 days to 30 days, and adds a three-year statute of limitations for landlords to sue tenants when trying to recover amounts that are more than the deposit. The bill was sponsored by Rep. My-Linh Thai, D-Bellevue.

HB 1110: Perhaps one of the most anticipated bipartisan bills this session was this legislation sponsored by Bateman and Rep. Andrew Barkis, R-Olympia. The bill is meant to increase density and middle housing supply by allowing duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes to be built on residential lots that are zoned for single-family homes in certain Washington cities. The law goes into effect on July 23.

HB 1293: This legislation would make it easier for developers to speed up the construction of new housing by requiring certain cities and counties to only apply clear and objective design review standards for the exteriors of new development. Additionally, housing units that are affordable to low- and moderate-income households will get expedited reviews of permitting applications. The law goes into effect on July 23.

Rep. Marker Klicker, R-Walla Walla, sponsored the legislation with four other Republicans as well as three Democrats.

HB 1337: Another bipartisan bill, this legislation was sponsored by Rep. Mia Gregerson, D-SeaTac, along with multiple Democratic and Republican co-signers. Under the bill, cities and counties in urban growth areas can now allow accessory dwelling units with the bill easing some of the barriers to ADU construction. Additionally, those cities and counties can incentivize development of ADUs. The law will go into effect on July 23.

SB 5045: Sponsored by Sen. Patty Kuderer, D-Bellevue, this legislation would allow counties with 1.5 million or more population (only King County at this time) to exempt ADUs from property tax, as long as the ADU is rented to low-income households. The law will takes effect July 23.

SB 5197: Also sponsored by Kuderer, this bill modifies eviction processes and makes technical changes to eviction notice forms. Under the bill, remote testimony is now allowed from any party in eviction proceedings and allows tenants more time to provide pledges of financial assistance letter from a government or nonprofits up until the date of an eviction, restoring their tenancy. Additionally, landlords now have 14 days instead of seven to suspend court action to allow for payment with emergency rental assistance funds.

SB 5258: This bill is intended to increase supply and affordability of condos and townhouses. It also creates a new process to address defects in condominium construction. Developers would have more flexibility by increasing how much money they can use up front. Additionally, the bill creates a down payment assistance account for first-time homebuyers and limits fees on certain types of construction. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Sharon Shewmake, D-Bellingham, and passed both chambers of the Legislature unanimously.

SB 5290: This legislation will consolidate and speed up the permitting process for housing development. Local governments must respond to project permits within 20 days of receiving the application. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Mark Mullet, D-Issaquah, along with other Democrat lawmakers, and Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn, at the request of the governors office. It passed the Legislature unanimously. The law goes into effect July 23.

SB 5702: This piece of legislation expands on a pilot program that was first passed in 2019. That program allowed certain community and technical colleges as well as four-year schools to provide accommodations for students who were in foster care when they graduated. The pilot was later expanded in 2021 to include more participating four-year institutions and to extend the expiration date, and in 2022 was further expanded to include a total of six four-year institutions and all community and technical colleges.

Sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, D-Tacoma, the bill signed by Inslee Monday will expand the program even further by eliminating the expiration date. Additionally, all community and technical colleges as well as four-year institutions can participate. The law goes into effect July 23.
Indiana Democrats will be facing an existential election this November. Already purged from rural areas and many small to medium-sized cities, holding no Statehouse constitutional offices, only two of 11 federal offices, and with superminority status in the General Assembly, the party has been relegated to the states big cities and college towns.

Now, Republicans will be taking aim at Indianas biggest two cities, Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, where incumbent Democrats fit the description of embattled.

In Indianapolis, self-funding Republican mayoral nominee Jefferson Shreve will take on two-term Democrat Mayor Joe Hogsett, who dispatched state Rep. Robin Shackleford, 58%-38% on Tuesday. The fact that 42% of Democrats didnt vote for the mayor has Hoosier Republicans licking their chops. They point to Republican Greg Balllards 2007 upset of Mayor Bart Peterson as a historic parallel as well as Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoots primary loss in February, largely based on the crime issue.

Shreve spent more than $2 million after filing his candidacy right at the filing deadline last February. He described Indianapolis as a jewel of a city that has been damaged by a rampant murder rate, high crime and a lack of cops. Shreve said his candidacy was not a business decision; this is a decision from the heart. Im running for mayor as a Republican and its gonna be tough. We live in a Democratic city. Im not fooling myself, I understand the challenge. In my heart, I am convinced I can bring something better and bolder than what we have today.

Indiana Republican Chairman Kyle Hupfer said, Were looking forward to partnering with Jefferson and his team over the next few months and helping to deliver much-needed change in Indianapolis.

Democratic Party Vice Chair and Marion County Democratic Chairwoman Myla Eldridge said, Jefferson Shreves message is already falling short. After spending more than $2 million on Trump-style ads promoting his right-wing agenda, less than 30,000 Republican ballots were cast on Election Day compared to a historic 45,000 Democratic ballots. Jeffersons platform may resonate with hardcore conservatives, but its clear Indianapolis voters arent interested.

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In Fort Wayne, four-term Democrat Mayor Tom Henry will face the only Republican ever to beat him. That occurred in 2003 when Republican Tom Didier upset him by 172 votes to win the city council seat Henry had held for 20 years. Henry recovered, winning the mayors office in 2007.

On Tuesday, Henry easily dispatched a little-known Democrat challenger, Jorge Fernandez, with 78% of the vote. Its his first public test since being arrested on a DUI last October. He pleaded guilty in November.

Didier, who defeated Councilman Jason Arp 64-33% on Tuesday in the GOP primary, smells blood in the water. Now Ive got to get checkmate, I feel very confident, Didier told the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. I really believe the voters are ready for a change.

Henry said his family and the Didiers have known each other for a long time and he expects a donnybrook. I think itll be a very lively campaign, he said. Aggressive, but in a positive way.

Indiana Democrats have other potential challenges. They have seen the GOP encroach in areas where it once dominated, including southern Lake County and St. Joseph County, where all three county commissioners are Republican.

South Bend Mayor James Mueller defeated Councilman Henry Davis Jr. with 68%. South Bend Tribune columnist Jack Colwell explained, Davis had to top 30% to show he had any significant impact. He just reached that. But he fell short of the 40% that would have signaled Mueller was vulnerable for a possible fall upset by Republican challenger Desmont Upchurch.

In Anderson, Democrat Mayor Thomas Broderick defeated Councilman Rodney Chamberlain by a mere 32 votes and faces Republican Jon Bell, who won his primary by just four votes. Republican Kevin Smith won the Anderson mayors office twice, in 2003 and 2011, before Broderick defeated him in 2015.

Indiana Democratic Party Chairman Mike Schmuhl said after the November 2022 elections, Indiana Democrats laid the groundwork in 2021 and 2022, and now its time to crisscross our state even more, build up our party from the grassroots, elect city leaders in 2023.

There may be some opportunities for Democrats as well.

There will be an open seat in Evansville, where Republican Mayor Lloyd Winnecke is retiring. He and his wife, Carol McClintock, recruited and helped newcomer Natalie Rascher win a decisive primary against Vanderburgh County Commissioner Cheryl Musgrave by 1,500 votes. Rascher will face Democrat Stephanie Terry in November. Democrats control seven of nine Evansville Council seats.

Another open seat comes in Carmel. Republican Mayor Jim Brainard did not seek another term. Councilwoman Sue Finkam won the three-way race with 36% of the vote and will face Democrat Miles Nelson in November. We knew we had to be scrappy and tough and resilient and not back down from a fight, Finkam said. They underestimated us at every turn.

Nelson told a gathering of 150 Democrats, As we move toward the November election, Im ready to continue engaging voters in our city on how we build an administration thats responsive to their needs, transparent about our spending and priorities.

In Terre Haute, Republican Mayor Duke Bennett is seeking a record-tying fifth term and will face Democrat Brandon Sakbun, who upset Tom Goodwin on Tuesday with 54%. Goodwin, running as an independent in 2019, came within 213 votes of upsetting Bennett.

The columnist is managing editor of Howey Politics Indiana/State Affairs at StateAffairs.com/pro/Indiana. Find Howey on Facebook and Twitter @hwypol.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Indiana GOP looks to unseat incumbent mayors in Indy, Fort Wayne
Allen High School students Marina Martinez, 18, Riley Barham, 18, and Brie Etheridge hugged as they prayed at the memorial outside Allen Premium Outlets in Allen on May 8, 2023. (Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News)

DALLAS  The man accused of killing eight people and wounding several others in a mass shooting at a suburban Dallas shopping mall researched when it was busiest and posted photos on social media in mid-April of a store near where he ultimately started his attack.

The posts by Mauricio Garcia on a Russian social networking site suggest the 33-year-old had been planning the attack for weeks before he stepped out of a silver sedan and opened fire Saturday. Among the dead were two elementary school-age sisters, a couple and their 3-year-old son, and a security guard.

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Garcias online activity also betrayed a fascination with white supremacy and mass shootings, which he described as sport. Photos he posted showed large Nazi tattoos on his arm and torso, including a swastika and the SS lightning bolt logo of Hitlers paramilitary forces.

Other posts indicated Garcia had researched when the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, one of the Dallas-areas most diverse suburbs, would be the busiest  Saturday afternoons, the time he carried out the massacre, which ended when police shot and killed him.

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The online activity contributed to an emerging picture of the gunman Monday. He was discharged from the Army in 2008 because of mental health issues and apparently had been working as a security guard, according to neighbors and an Army official.

Aric Toler, director of training and research at the international research collective bellingcat.com, said he identified Garcias profile on the site OK.RU by searching for active accounts with his birthdate located in the U.S. The AP independently verified the account, which also featured an image of a traffic ticket with Garcias name and birthdate as well as paperwork from a motel where he stayed before the shooting.

Federal agents investigating what motivated the shooting have also reviewed the online posts, according to a federal law enforcement official who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

The official also said Garcia had a patch on his chest when police killed him that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have also interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs and are examining his financial records and other electronic media, the official said.

Garcia joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training, U.S. Army spokeswoman Heather J. Hagan said.

According to an Army official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues, he was kicked out due to mental health issues.

Garcia received an uncharacterized discharge, which is common for recruits who dont make it through training or the first 180 days, according to a defense official who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues. That type of discharge  which is not dishonorable  would not set off red flags or require any reports to law enforcement.

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On the Dallas block where Garcia lived at a family home until recently, neighbors said they thought he worked as a security guard but they werent sure where. The company that manages the mall where the attack happened didnt immediately reply to messages seeking further information.

A woman who lives next door said she didnt know her neighbors well but described them as nice and polite. Garcia was always friendly, waving and honking, she said.

A law enforcement official said investigators also have searched a Dallas motel where Garcia had been staying ahead of the attack.

Amid protests Monday at the Texas Capitol for stricter gun control, two Republicans sided with Democrats to advance a bill that would raise the age to buy semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21, though the measure has little or no chance of actually becoming law.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Just over a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

The community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Medical City Healthcare said Monday it was treating six patients: Three were in critical condition, two were in fair condition and one was in good condition at a childrens hospital. Police said a seventh wounded person was taken to a different hospital.

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Allen, which is home to about 105,000 people, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth areas diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show that Allens population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online warning of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

Baldor reported from Washington and Johnson from Seattle. Jamie Stengle and Adam Kealoha Causey in Dallas; Michael Balsamo in Washington; Vanessa Alvarez in New York; James Vertuno in Austin; Michelle R. Smith in Providence, Rhode Island; and Rebecca Boone in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.
Kyrylo Budanov promised to take revenge for all actions of the Russian Federation in Ukraine

We will take revenge for every missile and bomb, for every destroyed home, for countless victims and sufferings of children and mothers, for every crime committed in Ukraine! Budanov said.

Read also: When will Ukraine reclaim Crimea, other occupied lands?  Budanov

The Russian horde will drown in the blood of its soldiers on our Ukrainian land! Because no army in the world will overcome a nation that has an immortal will to live, unbreakable strength of spirit and a powerful, brave army.

Budanov said Ukrainians are now defending the entire world at the cost of their lives.

Having unleashed the war, the rascists (Russian fascists) saw their imperial project as the end of 'Ukrainian history,'" said the spy chief.

Read also: Three people injured, one missing after fresh Russian strike on Odesa Oblast

But they were faced with the unprecedented courage, dedication and professionalism of our heroes on the battlefield, the iron endurance, competence and determination of their commanders, and most importantly, the total, comprehensive resistance of the entire Ukrainian people. We are standing firm, fighting and living! The victory will be ours.

Budanov issued his statement on the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation on May 8, following yet another massive attack by the Russian military on Ukraine.

In the early hours of May 8, a total of 35 incoming Iranian-built UAVs were detected and destroyed as the entered Kyiv's airspace in waves. Five people were injured, and the wreckage fell on a residential building and the runway of Kyivs Zhuliany international airport.

The air raid alert lasted over three-and-a-half hours.

Read also: Russia receives new batch of Shahed attack drones from Iran, Humeniuk says

Elsewhere, Russian Tu-22 strategic bombers launched a cruise missile attack at Odesa Oblast. The Kh-22 anti-ship missiles at a warehouse of a food company and a recreational area on the Black Sea coast. A fire broke out at the warehouse.

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
With a new initiative, which would reform Idahos politically destructive closed GOP primary, submitted to the secretary of state for certification, the attorney general has a job to do.

He is no longer capable of doing it.

On Tuesday, shortly after the initiative had been filed, Attorney General Raul Labrador posted a tweet opposing the initiative.

Lets defeat these bad ideas coming from liberal outside groups, Labrador wrote.

So his position is clear. The initiative is a bad idea that should be defeated along with the liberal outside groups who are fronting it. (Strange that Bruce Newcomb, the first Republican speaker of the Idaho House that Labrador served under, would be one of the primary faces of a liberal outside group.)

But Idahos attorney general has legal obligations when an initiative is filed, which are mostly outlined in Idaho Code 34-1809. These obligations involve legal review of the initiative and preparing a description of the initiative. The attorney general has a clear obligation to be impartial.

In making the ballot title, the attorney general shall, to the best of his ability, give a true and impartial statement of the purpose of the measure and in such language that the ballot title shall not be intentionally an argument or likely to create prejudice either for or against the measure, Idaho Code states.

Like a prospective judge announcing how they would rule on a case before its been presented to them, Labradors public denunciation of the initiative means he has an obligation to recuse himself from handling it himself. Hes already announced his opposition to the initiative and to the people circulating it, so theres no possibility of objectivity.

The only credible opinion is for Labrador to appoint outside counsel  a needless expense created by spouting off on Twitter, which should come out of his own budget.

And Labrador shouldnt consider outsourcing this work to other attorneys in his office, who take orders from him and stand to gain by supporting his position. For example, Solicitor General Theo Wold  only six minutes after Labradors original tweet, since the smart move in the new attorney generals office is to deliver polished apples quickly  seconded his bosss opinion.

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State AGs are the strongest line of defense against the Lefts national campaign to force ranked choice voting on our elections. Leave this failed idea in NYC and Oakland. https://t.co/plZpU0tPCf  Theo Wold (@RealTheoWold) May 2, 2023

State AGs are the strongest line of defense against the Lefts national campaign to force ranked choice voting on our elections. Leave this failed idea in NYC and Oakland, Wold wrote on Twitter.

This is yet another instance of what Labradors electoral opponents warned about on the campaign trail: He is a career politician, and his political instincts constantly get in the way of his ability to fulfill his duties as attorney general.

However he wants to pitch it, Labradors opposition to the initiative isnt a matter of principle or even ideology. Its a matter of survival. He knows that he might not have a job if all Idahoans, rather than the small sliver of Idaho voters who participate in the closed GOP primary, selected the attorney general.

Its too late to put the genie back in the bottle now. Labrador should appoint outside counsel to perform the duties of the Attorney General as outlined in Idaho Code, so that the public can be sure that the job is done impartially.

The right to legislate directly is a power reserved to the people, a fundamental right with at least equal standing as the Legislatures power to make laws, as the Idaho Supreme Court made clear in Reclaim Idaho v. Denney. Idahos attorney general has rendered himself incapable of safeguarding that right and so should step out of the way and allow someone who is capable of doing that job to do it.

Bryan Clark is an opinion writer for the Idaho Statesman based in eastern Idaho.
Multiple illegal alligator hunts have resulted in felony poaching charges against four men, including one instance of an alligator being hacked to death with a machete, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The alligators were killed Jan. 31, Feb. 14 and April 28, on property along State Road 52 near Land O Lakes, affidavits report.

Two suspects are accused of killing the alligators, while two others processed the meat for consumption, state officials say.

The investigation began after a March 9 tip about an individual unlawfully taking various species, FWC officials told McClatchy News.

Officers met with two suspects and discovered evidence of illegal possession of an alligator on one suspects cell phone and the other confessed to the illegal take of an alligator using a rifle, FWC officials said.

After further investigation, officers interviewed a third suspect who admitted he processed the meat from illegally taken alligators. Alligator meat and a rifle were seized as evidence.

Evidence discovered in April led to a fourth arrest involving a meat processor, officials said.

Four men are facing felony charges for alligator poaching in Florida. The states alligator hunting season runs Aug. 15 through Nov. 1 and allows for only 7,000 permits, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

FWC has not said how the illegal hunts are connected, but investigators are seeking additional tips involving illegal wildlife activities at the 6,200-plus acre Angeline development under construction near Land O Lakes. The project is about 20 miles north of Tampa.

The suspects are from Florida, range in age from 35 to 61, and each faces a charge of illegally taking of an alligator, a third-degree felony that can result in up to five years in prison.

Two of the reptiles were shot and one was killed with a machete in Five Mile Creek, which crosses the Angeline development, maps show.

Floridas alligator hunting season begins Aug. 15 and ends Nov. 1 and allows for only 7,000 permits to be issued.

It is illegal to kill alligators out of season, unless they have been officially deemed a threat to the public by FWC. In such cases, the state will contract a licensed trapper to trap and euthanize the alligator.

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Alligator captured in Florida pool, but deputys reaction is what has people talking

Alligator hiding under pickup in driveway startles Florida couple, video shows

Alligator lunges from pond  and man escapes with minor injuries, Florida officials say
Catrina Petit, the 18-year-old J.P. Taravella High School student accused of threatening to shoot up a school on social media said her actions were supposed to be funny, according to a police report released Monday.

Catrina

Petit's viral message that read in part, "MARK THE DATE 5/5/23 FRIDAY I WILL MAKE HISTORY AS THE TOP SCHOOL SLAUGHTER," started a panic in schools in several counties in Florida, including Volusia, and across the nation on Friday.

'Sometimes I do stuff without reasoning'

Petit, of Tamarac, used two different school computers that were not assigned to her to draft the threatening messages, according to an arrest report.

After witness testimonies made clear that Petit had gained access to those two computers during class, police officers interviewed her at her home.

Petit admitted to sending the threats. When asked what her motivations were, she said: "I dont know, Im just a very dumb person sometimes." She added: "Sometimes I do stuff without reasoning."

Taravella High School is in Coral Springs. Petit was being held on a $80,000 bond. Court records show she bonded out on Tuesday.

Panic hits Volusia County

The threat prompted alerts by local law officials. The Volusia Sheriff's Office wrote on Facebook that there was a post circulating about the threat but that it was not credible.

"It's a hoax, but please know that deputies, police, and school guardians are taking every potential threat seriously, and extra patrols of our school campuses will continue through the end of the school year," it said.

Arrest: Student arrested for viral school shooting post that caused panic across Florida, nation

What is she charged with? School shooting threat suspect arrested for causing mass panic facing serious jail time

Friday's threat: Volusia, Flagler sheriffs' offices say statewide school shooting threat 'a hoax'

The Flagler County Sheriff's Office, as well as Volusia and Flagler Schools, released statements ensuring there was no threat to students.

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Hoax message

Several parents also posted on social media thanking police response and how they reacted to the threat.

"Have kept both of my grandsons home from school today, it's better to be safe than sorry, everyone be safe out there," wrote a poster on the Daytona Beach Police Department's page.

Petit is charged with four second-degree felony counts and 15 misdemeanor counts, records show. The four felony counts each call for up to 15 years in prison.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Catrina Petit, arrested for school shooting threat, said she was joking
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia and Singapore condemned an attack on a convoy of their diplomats and an ASEAN humanitarian aid body in military-ruled Myanmar, and called for an end to violence and a commitment to dialogue between warring groups.

Myanmar state media on Tuesday said "terrorists" with small arms attacked a convoy that was delivering supplies to displaced people in His Hseng township in Shan State in northern Myanmar on May 7.

It said no one was harmed and showed pictures of a pickup truck with minor damage, including broken glass from bullets.

It remained unclear who was behind the incident involving staff from the Indonesian and Singaporean embassies in Yangon and personnel from the humanitarian assistance centre of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

No group claimed responsibility for the incident.

Myanmar has been trapped in a spiral of violence and economic turmoil since the military overthrew an elected government in 2021 and launched a bloody crackdown on dissent.

Intensifying military attacks and clashes with armed resistance movements have prompted calls, including from Myanmar's ASEAN neighbours, to end hostilities and allow access for humanitarian aid.

It comes as Southeast Asian leaders meet in Indonesia to discuss the crisis in Myanmar among other issues. Myanmar's generals have been barred from the meeting over their lack of progress in implementing an ASEAN peace plan.

An Indonesian diplomat involved in the incident was "in good condition", said foreign ministry spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah.

Two staff of Singapore's embassy in Yangon were also safe and had returned to the city, its foreign ministry said.

"Only constructive dialogue among all key stakeholders in Myanmar can facilitate a peaceful solution in the interests of the people of Myanmar," the ministry said in a statement.

The United States also condemned the attack and called on Myanmar's military to implement a peace consensus agreed between its generals and ASEAN.

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Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Monday said the "shootout" would not deter efforts by Indonesia and ASEAN to push for peace in Myanmar.

"Stop using force. Stop violence because it's the people who will be victims. This condition will not make anybody win," he said.

Myanmar's shadow National Unity Government, which is allied with anti-junta militias, the People's Defence Forces (PDF), said it was not involved in the incident. The PDF in the region did not respond to a request for comment.

Indonesia has for months been quietly engaging Myanmar's junta, shadow government and armed ethnic groups to try and kick-start a peace process, its foreign minister said last week.

(Reporting by Ananda Teresia, Bernadette Christina and Stanley Widianto in Jakarta, Xinghui Kok in Singapore; Additional reporting by Reuters staff; Editing by Stephen Coates, Martin Petty)
The new Indonesian fund aims to empower Indigenous and local communities in the fight against climate change

Indonesian civil groups launched on Monday a multimillion-dollar fund aimed at empowering Indigenous and local communities across the Southeast Asian country in the fight against climate change.

The Nusantara Fund - the first direct funding mechanism for indigenous and local communities in the country - was launched by the environmental group Walhi, the Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA) and Indigenous people's NGO AMAN.

It received $3 million in initial support from international philanthropic organisations such as the Ford Foundation and Packard Foundation.

It is part of a $1.7 billion Forest Tenure Pledge that was first announced at COP26 in Glasgow, which recognised the important role of Indigenous and local communities in protecting tropical forests and their contribution to mitigate climate change.

Indonesia, home to the world's third-largest rainforest area, claims to have made some progress by reducing the rate of primary forest loss for five straight years up to 2021, but total forest cover keeps receding.

A study by Rainforest Foundation Norway found that Indigenous communities received about $2.7 billion of climate funds in forest management between 2011 and 2020 from donors and philanthropies, equivalent to less than 1 percent of official development assistance for climate change mitigation and adaptation over the same period.

The Nusantara Fund was launched to help correct such an imbalance in climate fund distribution, said Ford Foundation president Darren Walker.

"This fund has been designed in part to respond to that imbalance and to demonstrate the efficacy of the idea that when you provide resources to local communities, you are more likely to have the impacts that we need to address the climate challenge," Walker told AFP Monday.

The fund seeks to address the needs of the communities in a bottom-up approach, looking to them to identify challenges that they face and solutions, said WALHI director Zenzi Suhadi.

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"We create the mechanism of the Nusantara Fund directly to the local community and indigenous people," said Suhadi.

AMAN secretary-general Rukka Sombolinggi added that villagers "know best" the challenges they face and how they want to tackle them.

The founders of the fund seek to attract up to $20 million in investment in the next 10 years to help map more than 20 million hectares of Indigenous territories, and increase the protection and registration of 7.8 million hectares on top of the recognised land, among other targets.

mrc/mtp
Psalm is Kardashians' youngest child with rapper Ye. GWR/Star Max/Getty Images and @kimandnorth via TikTok.

Kim Kardashian threw her son Psalm a firefighter-themed fourth birthday party this weekend.

Kardashian shared footage and photos of the event on social media.

Decorations included a bouncy house shaped like a fire station and flame-shaped helium balloons.

Kim Kardashian celebrated her son Psalm's fourth birthday by throwing him a lavish firefighter-themed party.

Psalm, Kardashian's youngest child, turns four on May 9, but the reality star celebrated the occasion slightly early on May 6, sharing several photos and videos of the event on social media.

One TikTok, posted on Kardashian's joint account with her 9-year-old daughter North, shows a large red entrance to the party with the letters "FD" in the style of a fire department sign written on it. Inside the entrance were large helium balloons shaped like flames, craft tables, a bouncy house shaped like a fire station, and a fire engine-themed slide with a ball pit, among other attractions.

Kardashian, 42, also filmed a rack of firefighter costumes for Psalm's guests, which were made from real firefighter turnout gear, according to an Instagram post from events company Haus of Elements LA, which reposted a series of since-expired stories from Kardashian's account that tagged the brand.

A subsequent TikTok on Kardashian and North's account showed the 44-year-old mom holding Psalm in her arms as guests sang "Happy Birthday" in front of a cake shaped like a fire hydrant.

Comments on the account have been turned off, but when her sister Khloe posted a similar montage of clips from the party on her TikTok account, the event received a mixed response.

Some users criticized the family for spending so much money on the lavish party, while others said they were impressed by the effort Kardashian put into her son's celebration.

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Many celebrities and influencers have increasingly faced backlash in recent months for posting about their luxurious lives despite ongoing rising living costs, being labeled out of touch with the difficulties many ordinary people are facing.

Kardashian has four children, named North, Chicago, Saint, and Psalm, with her ex-husband Ye (formerly known as Kanye West).

Kardashian and Ye got married in 2014 after more than two years of dating, and Kardashian filed for divorce in 2021. Before the divorce was finalized in November 2022, a series of public feuds escalated between the pair, which involved Ye criticizing Kardashian for letting North use TikTok, and Ye taking responsibility for harassing Kardashian and her then-boyfriend Pete Davidson, whom she dated for nine months, on social media.

In a December 2022 interview on Angie Martinez' "IRL" podcast, Kardashian described the difficulties of co-parenting with her ex-husband, saying she deliberately avoids bashing the rapper in front of her children and tries to shield them from the public by limiting their access to television and social media.

For more stories like this, check out coverage from Insider's Digital Culture team here.

Read the original article on Insider
Financier Ivan Boesky was the real-life inspiration for Gordon Gekko of 'Wall Street.' Yves Gellie/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

Insider trading is the term used to describe the illegal act in which someone relies on market-moving, nonpublic information to decide whether to buy or sell a financial asset.

For example, say you work as an executive at a company that plans to make an acquisition. If its not public, that would count as inside information. It becomes a crime if you either tell a friend about it  and that person then buys or sells a financial asset using that information  or if you make a trade yourself.

Punishment, if youre convicted for insider trading, can range from a few months to over a decade behind bars.

Insider trading became illegal in the U.S. in 1934 after Congress passed the Securities Exchange Act in the wake of the worst sustained decline in stocks in history.

From Black Monday 1929 through the summer of 1932, the stock market lost 89% of its value. The act was meant to prevent a whole litany of abuses from recurring, including insider trading.

While insider trading typically involves trading stocks of individual companies based on information about them, it can involve any kind of information about the economy, a commodity or anything else that moves markets.

Why insider trading matters

Insider trading is not a victimless crime. People trading on inside information benefit at the expense of others.

A key characteristic of well-functioning financial markets is high liquidity, which means it is easy to make large trades at low transaction costs. But when traders fear losing money to counterparts with inside information, they charge higher transaction costs, which leads to less liquidity and lower investor returns. And since a lot of people have a stake in financial markets  about half of U.S. families own stocks either directly or indirectly  this behavior hurts most Americans.

Insider trading also makes it more expensive for companies to issue stocks and bonds. If investors think that insiders might be trading bonds of a company, they will demand a higher return on the bonds to compensate for their disadvantage  increasing the cost to the company. As a result, the company has less money to hire more workers or invest in a new factory.

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There are also broader impacts of insider trading. It undermines public confidence in financial markets and feeds the common view that the odds are stacked in favor of the elite and against everyone else.

Furthermore, since inside traders profit from privileged access to information rather than work, this makes people believe that the system is rigged.

Martha Stewart was found guilty of insider trading in 2004. AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews

Hard to prove

Research shows that insider trading is common and profitable yet notoriously hard to prove and prevent.

A recent study estimated that overall only about 15% of insider trading in the U.S. is detected and prosecuted but suggested more of it is coming to light in recent years because of increased enforcement.

One of the more famous  and few  examples of insider trading being prosecuted was the 2004 conviction of businesswoman and media personality Martha Stewart for selling shares based on an illegal tip from a broker.

The sudden collapse of several banks in 2023 has also caught the attention of authorities. The Securities and Exchange Commission is reportedly investigating executives at both Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic Bank, which was seized and sold on May 1, for potential insider trading.

And, so, the cat-and-mouse game between regulators and those who want to game the system continues.

This is an updated and shortened version of an article that was originally published on Feb. 18, 2022.

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

It was written by: Alexander Kurov, West Virginia University and Marketa Wolfe, Skidmore College.

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The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Benson and Stabler took a break from nabbing bad guys for a day to learn how to fight fires.

Christopher Meloni and Mariska Hargitay gave us a one-time glimpse of what a "Law & Order: FDNY" show would look like when they donned firefighter gear to support a foundation run by fellow actor Denis Leary.

Hargitay, 59, and Meloni, 62, not only wore the gear but also learned firefighting techniques as part of International Firefighters Day last week.

The day was set up by the Leary Firefighters Foundation, which was created in 2000 by actor Denis Leary after his cousin, childhood friend and four other firefighters were killed in a blaze in Worcester, Massachusetts. Leary guest-starred last year on "Law & Order: Organized Crime," which stars Meloni, as a fellow cop turned rogue.

The foundation helps build training facilities and supply vehicles, technology and firefighting tools to fire departments across the country.

Meloni and Hargitay not only put on the firefighter suits, they also trained in them. Hargitay shared video on Instagram of herself rappelling down the side of a training building in a harness after climbing out of a window.

"So This happened today," she wrote. "Wait for it Thank you @learyfirefighters and @denisleary What a day!"

In a separate Instagram post, she added one of her trademark long hashtags, #IMNOTSCAREDOFAHARNESS.

"You are incredible my friend," actor Kathy Najimy commented.

"Amazing," actor Debra Messing wrote.

Hargitay also gave the "Law & Order" fans what they wanted, sharing a pair of shots of Meloni giving her a kiss on the side of her head.

Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni shared a moment in the midst of becoming firefighters for a day for a charitable cause. (@therealmariskahargitay via Instagram)

"I dont even know what to say right now! This feels like Im 5 and its Christmas morning! " one fan commented.

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Meloni posted photos on Instagram of him putting on the protective fire gear and posing in front of a statue of firefighters.

"Sothis happened with @denisleary and @bobby1960 @therealmariskahargitay to help out @learyfirefighters #learningthetrade #respect #NYBravest," Meloni wrote.

The carousel of photos included another shot of him with Hargitay, Leary, actor Billy Crudup and actor Robert Burke, the last of whom appeared as a regular character on both "Law & Order: SVU" and Leary's former firefighter-themed drama, "Rescue Me."

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Prigozhin and the wagnerites

He noted that Prigozhin had threatened to withdraw his mercenaries on May 10 if he was not given shells.

Later, Prigozhin said his forces would be given ammunition. However, it is still not clear whether that ammunition will be delivered or if the Russian warlord will go ahead with his threat to withdraw from the ruins of the Donetsk Oblast town.

"In this (latter) case, the defeat of the Russian army will no longer be a distant prospect, but an immediate and close one, Yakovyna predicted.

Read also: After Prigozhins statement about leaving Bakhmut, Malyar says Russia will try to capture city by May 9

The complete collapse, death and destruction of the Russian army will be a matter of a few months, if not even faster.

Any hole that developed in the front line around Bakhmut, where the Russian offensive has been going for ten months already, would affect the whole front line, the journalist said.The escape will be widespread, massive. Surrender, escape  whoever (can) will escape. If the dam bursts, the dam is finished. Even if the other parts of the dam are strong, if a small crack forms  that's it, the dam is finished. Its practically the same situation here.

And even if the Russian mercenaries do get more shells, that would still not be a bad outcome for the Ukrainian army, either, Yakovyna said.

There are objectively few shells. All the shells were fired and all the barrels (of artillery guns) have been worn out. And Russian industry is not Soviet industry. It cannot produce shells in the same quantities as before, it is simply (too) difficult for it to do so. It doesn't have enough resources and people to do it.

There are, of course, some accumulated stockpiles, which are now being collected to protect against a future Ukrainian offensive. If all these stockpiles are now transferred to the Wagner PMC, the rest of the Russian army will simply have nothing to shoot back with when Ukraine advances. This will lead to a front breakthrough in many directions and, again, to defeat in the war.

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Read also: Russia attacks Bakhmut with phosphorous munitions  video

Prigozhin posted on May 4 a video with rows of corpses of his mercenaries. He said that they all were killed in a day near Bakhmut. In an expletive-laden rant, he scolded the leadership of the Russian army, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov, saying that there was a "70% shortage of ammunition."

The next day Prigozhin said that his terrorists would withdraw from Bakhmut on May10 due to a lack of ammunition.

The Kremlin later said had seen Prigozhin's statement about the withdrawal from Bakhmut, but refused to comment on it, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

On May 7, Prigozhin said that Wagner would receive weapons to continue its attacks in Bakhmut.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Allen High School students Marina Martinez, 18, Riley Barham, 18, and Brie Etheridge hugged as they prayed at the memorial outside Allen Premium Outlets in Allen on May 8, 2023. (Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News)

Texans grieved Sunday in the aftermath of gunfire that killed eight people and wounded seven others at an Allen mall  leaving the community to grapple with the second-deadliest mass shooting in the United States this year.

Just after 3:30 p.m. Saturday, police said an officer who was nearby on an unrelated call heard gunfire at Allen Premium Outlets in the 800 block of West Stacy Road, near U.S. Highway 75.

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According to police, the officer engaged the suspect and neutralized the threat and then called for emergency responders. The shooter, who police said acted alone, was one of seven people declared dead on scene.

Nine additional victims were taken to hospitals, where two of them later died. Three of the seven remaining wounded victims were in critical condition, and four were stable, police said Saturday.

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Heres what we know about the lives lost.

Christian LaCour, 20

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old Farmersville resident, was one of the eight people killed, a family member confirmed Sunday.

The relative said that LaCour was a sweet caring young man who was loved greatly by [their] family. Multiple social media posts said LaCour was a security guard.

He was such a beautiful soul, 20 years old with goals for his future, one post said. I was so proud of him.

Words cannot even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels, another post read. There will forever be a void.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a project engineer from India, died in the shooting, according to multiple media reports.

The Times of India reported Thatikonda, 27, was from Hyderabad and her family was working to have her body brought back home.

According to her LinkedIn, Thatikonda worked in Dallas as a project engineer at Perfect General Contractors LLC. She lived in McKinney.

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A man who was with Thatikonda at the time of the shooting was also injured, the outlet reported. It was unclear what condition he was in as of Monday.

3 family members, 1 surviving child

The Houston office of the South Korean consulate confirmed Monday that Cho Kyu Song, 37, Kang Shin Young, 35, and their child were killed. The childs age was not immediately clear.

According to a letter from New Song Church, based in Carrollton, a 5-year-old child of the couple survived. The child was injured and was being treated at a hospital, South Koreas Yonhap News Agency reported.

Medical City Healthcare previously said it had received eight victims ages 5 to 61.

We need prayer, the letter stated in Korean. Please go to your place of prayer and pray for the family. No words can help with their pain, but we hope that our prayers will be heard by God who will provide healing for the family.

John Jun, a co-founder of the Korean American Coalition of Dallas-Fort Worth, said he first learned multiple victims of the mass shooting were of Korean descent through Korean-language news outlets. Jun also attends New Song Church in Carrollton.

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This is a horrific event, it just hits you in the heart when something like this happens close to home. Then having learned that four of the victims are Korean, it hits you even harder, said Jun, who is also a Coppell city council member.

Its devastating to think that they were simply out shopping and enjoying time together when their lives were taken from them, one Facebook post about the family read. This kind of violence has no place in our society, and we must come together to do everything we can to prevent it from happening again. May the Cho and Kang families find comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Income Investing

Taking on the stock market without a strategy is a dangerous game. Random stock picks can pile up into a messy, unbalanced portfolio that is more likely to lose you money instead of growing it.

You do not need to start from scratch. Imitating the style  or even the exact portfolios  of the worlds best investors can help your cash grow. Here, we break down how you can invest like the best and bag Buffett-style returns.

Warren Buffett

Funds: Berkshire Hathaway, SDL UK Buffettology, Fundsmith Equity

Shares: Berkshire Hathaway, Apple, Disney, Microsoft

Warren Buffett is probably the worlds most famous investor. The so-called Sage of Omaha has delivered returns of almost 200pc in the past 10 years alone. His success is based on a straightforward, no-nonsense approach: invest in good businesses, with trustworthy managers, at fair prices, and you should succeed in the long-term.

Mr Buffetts company, Berkshire Hathaway, regularly updates its investors about what its own portfolio looks like. So, if you would like to incorporate Mr Buffetts investment style into your Isa, you could either buy shares in Berkshire Hathaway itself, or buy shares in the companies it invests in.

Big, quality businesses such as Apple, Disney and Diageo feature in Mr Buffetts portfolio. He has also bets big on oil  his company is the biggest shareholder in both Chevron and Occidental Petroleum, among the largest oil producers in the world.

Laith Khalaf, of the broker AJ Bell, suggested Fundsmith Equity as an alternative pick for investors who preferred to buy funds based in Britain. The 25bn fund is run by Terry Smith, one of the nations most widely followed investors.

The Fundsmith Equity approach is similar to Buffetts, boasting an owners manual and an annual shareholder letter, like Berkshire Hathaway, and following the strategy of buying good companies, not overpaying, then doing nothing, he said.

The 692m UK Buffettology fund is another popular option. It is managed by Keith Ashworth-Lord, an investor who after agreeing a fee with Mr Buffetts former daughter-in-law, Mary Buffett, is licensed to use her Buffettology brand.

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So far, the Buffettology philosophy has served investors well: in the past 10 years it has returned 137pc by backing high quality British companies, compared with a 73pc return in the FTSE 100.

Benjamin Graham

Funds: Jupiter UK Special Situations, iShares Core Global Aggregate Bond ETF

Shares: BP, Shell

Benjamin Graham is hailed as the father of value investing, best known for his iconic book The Intelligent Investor and as a teacher of Warren Buffett.

Value investors seek out shares that are trading below their intrinsic value. This is determined through a range of valuation processes, such as calculating the price to earnings ratio. This compares a companys share price to its earnings  the lower the multiple, the cheaper the stock.

A P/E ratio is useful for a quick valuation, but remember that it does not paint a comprehensive picture. It ignores other aspects of a company, such as its debt, its assets and cash flow, to name a few.

Value investing has been out of favour for most of the last decade, but has stepped back into the limelight recently thanks to a seachange in the economic environment.

Mr Khalaf recommended the Jupiter UK Special Situations fund, run by Ben Whitmore who he described as a disciplined and rigorous value investor. The fund invests in companies such as BP, Shell and the defence company BAE Systems. It has returned 102pc over the past ten years, also beating the FTSE 100.

John Templeton

Funds: Schroder Global Recovery

Sir John Templeton was an American-British value investor, famed for his contrarian approach. He believed the best way to make money was to buy at the point when everyone else was pessimistic. One of his most famous sayings was: bull markets are born on pessimism, grow on scepticism, mature on optimism and die on euphoria.

The best way to adopt Sir Johns approach is to look for a fund manager approaching the global stock market with a value strategy. The Schroder Global Recovery fund is a good fit, as it looks for companies that are out of favour but which the managers think have potential for a sharp recovery.

Any savers taking a Lynch-style approach should be prepared for a lot of volatility. If you are looking for steady returns then it may be better to keep this style limited to a smaller part of your portfolio.

Peter Lynch

Funds: Artemis SmartGARP Global Equity, Tellworth UK Smaller Companies

Growth investing was a very lucrative strategy over the 2010s. This is when stock pickers back companies which are expected to grow their revenues fast, sometimes even when they are still far off from making a profit.

The trouble with this strategy is that often these stocks come at very steep valuations and if something goes wrong the share price can tank quickly. Peter Lynchs idea was to target growth at a reasonable price, or GARP.

Mr Khalaf said this blended both the value and growth investment styles. He popularised the somewhat flawed notion of a PEG ratio  which divides a PE ratio by the annual growth expected from a company, and suggested that a fairly priced company has a PEG ratio of 1, he said.

Best known for his book One Up on Wall Street, Mr Lynch has long advocated that regular savers can bag big gains on the stock market by spending time studying a companys financial statements.

Mr Khalaf added: Lynchs book was designed to help everyday investors beat Wall Street money managers by picking stocks themselves, so it feels slightly incongruous to suggest funds which replicate his approach. But then again, some of his advice borders on the dangerous, for instance holding between three and ten stocks seems woefully under-diversified, something a fund can easily mitigate.

Those in search of ten baggers might consider a smaller companies fund, as the minnows of the stock market are most likely to have scope to appreciate so tremendously in price. The Tellworth UK Smaller Companies fund combines growth and value characteristics in a way Lynch might well have approved of. For those who are interested in GARP, the Artemis SmartGARP Global Equity fund might be worth investigating.

Jack Bogle

Funds: Vanguard LifeStrategy funds, iShares trackers

Finally, but arguably most important for DIY investors, Jack Bogle, who revolutionised passive investing. He founded Vanguard, which popularised low-tracker index funds and is still one of the largest investment companies in the world.

Mr Bogles philosophy was that regular savers should not have to pay through the nose to get access to the stock markets  and in fact, professional investors rarely ever beat the rest of the market, so they would probably be better off not paying for them anyway.

Even Mr Buffett himself wrote in a letter to his shareholders in the 1990s that a low-cost fund was the most sensible choice for most savers. By periodically investing in an index fund, for example, the know-nothing investor can actually out-perform most investment professionals, he wrote.

Vanguard offers index trackers as well as pre-packaged LifeStrategy funds, which invest in a mix of global stocks and bonds, depending on your appetite for risk, at a low fee. Over the past three years, the Vanguard LifeStrategy 100pc Equity fund has delivered returns of 42pc, compared with an average 37pc return from global fund managers.

BlackRock, a rival asset management firm, also offers investors a range of iShares tracker funds at a similarly low cost.

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Action News Jax investigative reporter Emily Turner surveyed trains traveling through Jacksonville and found highly toxic, dangerous, and flammable contents.

Trains hauling toxic material pass by William Stewarts San Jose neighborhood.

Its kind of crazy, he said, Well hear them just make a huge sound, shake the house.

But after seeing the horrifying images from East Palestine, Ohio, and the derailment there, he became much more worried about whats moving through his neighborhood.

INVESTIGATES: Jacksonvilles chief of emergency services resigns

Its very concerning. Yeah. And its actually a question that I wanted to know more about, Stewart said.

Jacksonvilles biggest rail companies include CSX, Florida East Coast Railway, and Norfolk Southern. All three declined to tell us about the cargo they carry. They are not required to, but federal law does require signage on each tanker to warn what kind of chemical is inside.

READ: Jacksonvilles westside is a destination playground desert

TRAINS SURVEYED

So, Action News Jax surveyed rail yards and watched train tracks across town. We decoded the contents of whats moving through our area that could cause a problem.

Tankers on the Northside:

Potassium hydroxide or corrosive lye

Hydrochloric acid

Sodium hypochlorite, or bleach

Tankers near U.S. 1 in St Johns County:

Isohexane - a flammable solvent

Ethanol - a highly flammable substance that is toxic if inhaled

There are numerous tankers filled with ethanol camped in the rail yard off Philips Highway next to Stewarts house.

If something were to blow up or if there was any kind of leak, we would be directly affected for sure, Stewart said.

INVESTIGATES: St. Johns County Sheriffs Office deputies now wearing body cameras

Jacksonville Fire Rescue Chief Michael Lesniak said a derailment like the one in Ohio is a very real possibility.

Make no mistake about it, with the amount of product that we get through the city, an incident like that could easily happen here, he said.

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Lesniak said the trains that come through the city carry highly dangerous and sometimes radioactive contents.

INVESTIGATES: Fake police pulling people over in Jacksonville

We know that theres ethanol, ammonia, chlorine, and just a ton of other hazardous materials that move through Jacksonville whether its by rail or highway, he said.

That is because Jacksonville is a logistics hub thanks to the intersection of Interstate 10 and Interstate 95, a port and four rail companies. That is why the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department was the first in the country to create a permanent hazmat team.

The teams prepare 24/7 at two stations: 7 & 21. Both are near rail yards.

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PREVIOUS DERAILMENTS

Duval County leads the state in train accidents, according to the Federal Railroad Administration.

Since 1975, there have been 79 train accidents in six of our local counties. All the trains were carrying hazardous materials. Seven of them released at least some of their toxic load. Two were in Columbia County and five were in Duval County. Heres the total county-by-county breakdown:

Baker: 3

Columbia: 2

Duval: 62

Nassau: 7

Putnam: 1

St. Johns: 4

Total: 79

One of those crashes happened in February 2014. A Norfolk Southern train derailed near the St. Johns River. It is the same company responsible for the East Palestine derailment.

It triggered an evacuation of 200 people downtown while blocking part of Prudential Drive during the morning rush hour. Five of its eighty cars derailed. One of them released highly flammable ethanol. Thats the same chemical that burned for more than 14 hours in Minnesota after a train derailed in March 2023.

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It is the very same chemical Stewart is worried about.

Its very scary, Stewart said. And the fact that youre here is kind of letting us know everything.

We also checked the numbers for our Southeast Georgia counties. There have been 153 total accidents since 1975. All of the trains carried hazardous materials. It is much higher than our Florida counties because CSX has a major rail yard in Waycross in Ware County. Out of the 153 accidents, only four of them leaked their toxic content. Heres the county-by-county breakdown:

Brantley: 1

Camden: 1

Charlton: 4

Glynn: 4

Pierce: 18

Ware: 125

Total: 153

More than a month after we initially reached out, CSX sent this statement thirty minutes before the story aired:

At CSX, safety is our number one priority. Its a commitment we make to our employees, our customers, and the communities through which we operate. CSXs approach to delivering our customers goods safely is holistic, focusing on infrastructure and equipment investment, training and operational improvements, technology deployment, and community outreach and preparedness. Freight rail remains the safest and most environmentally friendly way to transport essential hazardous materials, with a 99.9% success rate and preferable to transporting these commodities via highways.

While safety is something we never stop working to improve, CSX has led the freight rail industry with the fewest FRA reportable train accidents and lowest average FRA reportable injury rate since 2019. For security reasons, CSX does not disclose how and where it transports sensitive materials to the public. CSX complies with Federal law concerning rail security and emergency preparedness, working with Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC), county and state Emergency Management agencies to ensure they have a comprehensive list of hazardous commodities transported in their communities so that first responders are prepared in the extremely rare case of a hazmat incident. We work closely with first responders across our network and regulatory agencies to ensure proper planning and safety protocols are followed to protect our communities, employees, and customers. In 2022, CSX conducted 40 training events totaling over 2,900 hours of educating 3,609 first responders, contractors, and local government officials across our network.

You can find information about the percentage of hazardous materials transported by CSX in Florida at Hazardous Materials - CSX.com. You can find further information about CSX.

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Atlanta police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an infant.

Authorities said on Sunday at 2:30 p.m., officers received reports of a person down call at a home on Johnson Road in northwest Atlanta.

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When officers arrived, they found a five-month-old child who was unresponsive.

The child was taken to the hospital, where officials pronounced the child dead.

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Investigators have not ruled the death as a homicide.

The cause and manner of death will be determined by an autopsy, according to police.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
Texas (AP)  Federal officials are looking into whether the gunman who killed eight people at a Dallas-area mall expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology, as they work to discern a motive for the attack, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe were used by Mauricio Garcia, 33, and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents have interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined Sunday evening to answer questions from the AP, saying of the investigation, we actually dont have a lot.

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as suspected of killing eight people at a Texas outlet mall, a day after the attack turned an afternoon of shopping into a massacre.

Garcia was fatally shot Saturday by a police officer who happened to be near the suburban Dallas mall.

A law enforcement official said investigators have been searching a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The official said police also found multiple weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Two law enforcement officials said investigators also searched a Dallas home connected to the suspect. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of an ongoing investigation.

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A woman who lives three houses down from the low brick house said she saw a large group of uniformed officers go into the home Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

They went in like real fast, and I seen them do that like twice, said Marsha Alexander, who said officers were still in the area when she went to bed around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. They were gone by Sunday morning.

On Sunday afternoon, a woman named Julie was sitting on the porch of her house, next door to the one searched the day before. She declined to give her last name to an AP reporter but said she awoke from a nap around 6 p.m. Saturday to see four police squad cars and a large group of officers outside her neighbors home.

She said they entered the home and were joined about an hour later by FBI agents and other people wearing plainclothes, who she also took to be law enforcement.

The woman said she did not know her neighbors well, but knew them to be very polite, very nice people. She said the man she now understands to have been the shooter was always friendly and would wave or honk his horn as he came and went.

At about 2 p.m. Sunday, a man entered the home that was searched, but when reporters knocked on the door and waited, no one answered.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said the assailant wore tactical gear and fired an AR-15-style weapon. He urged Congress to enact tighter restrictions on firearms and ammunition.

Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts, said Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

Republicans in Congress, he said, cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Barely a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

This year has seen an average of about one mass killing per week, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Information about the gunman in Allen emerged as the community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Authorities have not publicly identified those who were killed.

The wounded remained hospitalized Sunday, three in critical condition and four in fair condition, the Allen Police Department said in a statement.

John Mark Caton, senior pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church about two miles from the mall, offered prayers during a regular Sunday morning service for victims, first responders and the shoppers and employees who walked out past things they never should have seen.

Some of our people were there. Some perhaps in this room. Some of our students were working in those stores and will be changed forever by this, Caton said.

Caton offered similar sentiments during a Sunday night vigil at the church attended by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who has signed laws easing firearms restrictions following past mass shootings in Texas, and other elected leaders. Earlier that day, Abbott said on Fox News that Texas wouldnt enact gun control now.

People want a quick solution, Abbott said. The long term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

The attack unfolded at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center. Witnesses reported seeing children among the victims. Some said they also saw what appeared to be a police officer and a mall security guard unconscious on the ground.

Andria Gaither, the assistant manager at the Tommy Hilfiger clothing store, said Sunday she was at the back of the store Saturday afternoon when she saw two young girls trying to hide in a dressing room. At first, she thought they were playing. Then she heard one say shots were being fired.

Gaither looked around to see customers and the store manager running to the back of the store. Eventually, Gaither and the others ran out a back door.

As soon as I got outside the back of the store, you could hear the shooting, Gaither said Sunday. It was so loud. Id never ever heard anything like that in my life. It was deafening.

Allen, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of downtown Dallas and with a population of about 105,000 residents, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth areas diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show Allens population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

__

Balsamo reported from Washington, and Stengle reported from Dallas. Associated Press writers Vanessa Alvarez in New York, James Vertuno in Austin, Adam Kealoha Causey in Dallas, Gene Johnson in Seattle and Rebecca Boone in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Iran hanged two men Monday convicted of blasphemy, authorities said, carrying out rare death sentences for the crime as executions surge across the Islamic Republic following months of unrest.

Iran remains one of the world's top executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights. But carrying out executions for blasphemy remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.

The two men executed, Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare, died at Arak Prison in central Iran. They had been arrested in May 2020, accused of being involved in a channel on the Telegram message app called Critique of Superstition and Religion, according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Both men faced months of solitary confinement and could not contact their families, the commission said.

It is of extreme concern to us. I dont believe this is just a one-off event, Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, a member of the Congressionally mandated commission, told The Associated Press. I think that there is a sense that Iran is increasingly desperate. And when we know authoritarian theocracies are desperate, they often turn to very, very extreme acts.

The Mizan news agency of Iran's judiciary confirmed the executions, describing the two men as having insulted Islam's Prophet Muhammad and promoted atheism. Mizan also accused them of burning a Quran, Islam's holy book, though it wasn't clear whether the men allegedly did that or such imagery was shared in the Telegram channel.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads Iran Human Rights, decried the executions as exposing the medieval nature of Iran's theocracy.

The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable, he said in a statement. The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world.

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It wasn't immediately clear when Iran carried out its last execution for blasphemy. Other countries in the Middle East, like Saudi Arabia, also allow for death sentences to be imposed for blasphemy.

The streak of executions, including members of ethnic minority groups in Iran, comes as monthslong protests over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the country's morality police have cooled. Already, at least four people charged over alleged crimes from the demonstrations have been put to death. The protests, which reportedly saw over 500 people killed and 19,000 others arrested, marked one of the biggest challenges to Irans theocracy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Kleinbaum called on the White House to condemn the execution and further sanction Iran, as well as push for Russia and China to allow the United Nations Security Council to refer Tehran to the International Criminal Court.

This level of cruelty indicates that Irans government is desperate to maintain power through force, and we condemn it, she said.

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters in Washington that the U.S. condemned the executions. These latest executions are a grave reminder of the Iranian regimes penchant for abusing and violating the human rights of the Iranian people, he said.

In 2022, Iran executed at least 582 people, up from 333 people in 2021, according to Iran Human Rights. Amnesty International's most-recent report on executions put Iran as the world's second-largest executioner, behind only China, where thousands are believed to be put to death a year.

While some executions are publicized, others are not in Iran.

Many have been for drug-related offenses, but there also have been executions of a British-Iranian accused of spying and another of a Swedish-Iranian convicted of masterminding a 2018 attack on a military parade that killed at least 25.

A German-Iranian who lives in California, Jamshid Sharmahd, also faces a looming execution as tensions remain high between Tehran and the West over its accelerating nuclear program. The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said he spoke Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian about Sharmahd and asked Iran not to execute him.

Human Rights Activists in Iran, another group monitoring the Islamic Republic, warned last week about the alarming surge in executions.

Iranian authorities have an absolute obligation to uphold international human rights standards and instead, there is ongoing impunity for grave violations of the right to life  and more, said Skylar Thompson, the head of global advocacy and accountability at the group.

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Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.

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Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.
JERUSALEM  The Israeli government has been on the fence about supporting Ukraine with weapons, but defense companies here are eager to pounce on sales opportunities in Europe to restock inventories depleted by donations to Kyiv.

Russias invasion of Ukraine has led to a major increase in defense spending and procurement across Europe. Western countries seek to balance the needs of aiding Ukraine with resupplying their own stockpiles of munitions and buying new systems to prepare for future conflicts.

For Israels big three defense contractors  Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries and Elbit Systems  this represents a potential boon. In mid-April, for example, Israels Defense Ministry said Germany was in advanced negotiations to acquire Israels Arrow 3 air defense system. Finland is also acquiring the Davids Sling missile defense system, and Greece has announced a deal to acquire Spike missiles and drones.

The three companies each already have a presence in Europe. Some have local subsidiaries or agreements with European defense companies, or unique European footprints, such as Rafaels EuroSpike program. That means they are in a position to quickly react to new procurement plans.

For Niv Cohen, who leads Rafaels land maneuver systems business, the war in Ukraine has emphasized a need for land warfare equipment in particular.

The conflict has highlighted the principles of land maneuvering and holding territory conquered during battle, he said. This understanding of operational requirements has led to countries in Europe and around the world to develop serious plans for purchase and procurement of fighting vehicles, especially tanks.

Cohen also pointed to the related market of protective equipment to complement those vehicle fleets.

Rafael hopes those market dynamics bode well for its Trophy active protection system. The U.S. and Germany have already acquired the Trophy for their Abrams and Leopard tanks, respectively. The system has been operational in Israel since 2011, and Cohen said it has received upgrades since to meet changing threats.

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The company established EuroTrophy last year as a Europe-based company in partnership with Germanys Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Spain-based General Dynamics European Land Systems.

With the interest in active protection systems growing in Europe, Rafael has transferred the supply chain for its EuroTrophy and EuroSpike programs to the continent.

Given the difficulties in the global supply chain, our local manufacturing capabilities provide flexibility, efficiency and a streamlined process to help avoid the obstacles we identify here in Israel or in any arena, Cohen said.

Ran Kril, Elbits executive vice president for international marketing and business development, said a huge demand exists for artillery system munitions, protection capabilities and electronic warfare weaponry.

The companys acquisition of IMI in 2018 added new munitions as well as artillery and rocket systems to the companys portfolio. Kril point to this as enabling Elbit to potentially fill orders for countries that have seen munitions shipped to and consumed by Ukraine in the war.

Elbit has built a network of local offshoots across Europe, including in the U.K., Sweden, Switzerland and Germany, that are meant to boost the promise of local workshare in future sales.

They are expanding that as we speak because we understand the increase of the budget doesnt mean they are willing to buy from outside; they would like most of the work, and also development or maintenance. They expect to see more activities done in the country, so a strategy of establishing subsidiaries is one layer of the strategy, and this is in partnership with other companies. [Its] a win-win for both of us for programs, Kril said.

At IAI, CEO Boaz Levy said he hopes to bring his company into play in Europe by linking equipment across the air, space, land and sea domains of warfare.

This is where I will connect it to Europe, he said. IAI now has a lot of products that are suitable for the war that is taking place in Europe and gives us a view toward the future battlespace. When you look at the war there, you will see the requirements for better situational awareness and capabilities for space that are unique to IAI.

While Levy didnt mention specific customers, he did point to the firms Barak missile as an example of a product that has seen recent success, as well as radars and loitering munitions. The Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary, for example have acquired the radar used with Israels Iron Dome air defense system. Elta, a subsidiary of IAI, produces the radar.
The It List is Yahoo's weekly look at the best in pop culture, including movies, music, TV, streaming, games, books, podcasts and more. Here are our picks for May 8-14, including the best deals we could find for each.

STREAM IT: Queen Cleopatra, a controversial new take on the legendary Egyptian monarch, has arrived

Adele James takes on the role that Elizabeth Taylor and others have famously played before in Netflix's new, four-part series described as a docudrama, that includes the usual expert interviews but also reenactments. Jada Pinkett Smith narrated and executive-produced that project, as part of her African Queens series, and it's being closely watched because James is of mixed heritage. Critics say this is inaccurate, because they don't believe Cleopatra was Black, even though her precise ancestry has been debated by historians. To give you an idea of what's going on, an Egyptian lawyer has already filed a legal complaint that the series violates media laws and aims to "erase the Egyptian identity," while director Tina Gharavi said she "became the target of a huge online hate campaign" during filming. The question is how all the noise will affect ratings.  Raechal Shewfelt

Queen Cleopatra premieres Wednesday, May 10 on Netflix.

WATCH IT: Jeopardy! Masters brings the game show to primetime

Amy Schneider. Matt Amodio. Sam Buttrey. Andrew He. James Holzhauer. Mattea Roach. Any two of these legends of the popular quiz show playing one another would be a big deal, but all six will face-off in a series of matches in this new primetime event. Each of the hour-long episodes, hosted by Ken Jennings and airing over two-and-a-half weeks (every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, plus one Friday) consists of two games. While the show didn't respond to Yahoo's question about if and how the writers strike would affect it, we know that much of the series is taped in advance, and the tournament certainly seems to be on as planned.  R.S.

Jeopardy! Masters premieres Monday, May 8 at 8 p.m. on ABC.

WATCH IT: It's Charlie Day's Fool's Paradise and we're just living in it

Here's proof that you have to be a fool to make it in the movie business. Fresh off of voicing Luigi in the blockbuster Super Mario Bros. movie, Charlie Day makes his directorial debut with Fool's Paradise  an all-star Being There-esque satire that follows Latte Pronto (played by Day) on his only-in-Hollywood journey from a mental hospital to being the toast of La La Land despite not being able to speak... or even act, for that matter. A veritable blank slate, Pronto's rise is aided and abetted by a variety of ego-driven industry types, from Ken Jeong's success-hungry publicist to Jason Sudeikis's bad boy director to Kate Beckinsale's Angelina Jolie-like movie star, who decides that Latte is the perfect person to marry and adopt kids with. This exclusive clip from the film shows how Beckinsale literally seduces Day into her world.  Ethan Alter

Fool's Paradise premieres Friday, May 12 in theaters; visit Fandango for showtimes and ticket information.

WATCH IT: M. Night Shyamalans Knock at the Cabin has small setting, high stakes

The "Cabin in the Woods" story is a horror movie tradition, but you knew the M. Night Shyamalan would put a whole twist on the subgenre when the singular filmmaker brought Knock at the Cabin to theaters. For one: The stakes are higher than ever. Its only the fate of humanity at risk when a family of three vacationing in the woods are taken prisoner by a mysterious group of invaders. Watch Jonathan Groff talk about his onscreen daughter Wen Kristen Cui in an exclusive clip above from the Blu-rays bonus features.  Kevin Polowy

Knock at the Cabin is now available on digital platforms and arrives on Blu-ray and DVD Tuesday, May 9 on Amazon.

WATCH IT: Monica is a timely, sensitive portrayal of a transgender woman

As conservative-dominated states are seeking to curtail their transgender community's rights, Andrea Pallaoro's Monica paints a humanizing portrait of one trans woman's attempts to reconnect with her Midwestern family. Following her acclaimed appearances in Transparent and Hustlers, Trace Lysette plays the title character, whose estranged mother (Patricia Clarkson) threw her out of the family home over a decade ago. Now that her mom is on her deathbed, Monica returns and the two meet again, as if for the first time. This exclusive clip from the film features Monica's sister-in-law (Emily Browning) preparing her for this emotional mother-and-child reunion.  E.A.

Monica premieres Friday, May 12 in theaters; visit Fandango for showtimes and ticket information.

STREAM IT: Two Britbox documentaries explore the turbulent lives of English actors Richard Harris and Peter O'Toole

British cinema was shocked out of stasis in the '50s and '60s as a new school of actors brought raw honesty and dramatic magnetism to the big screen. Richard Harris and Peter O'Toole were at the forefront of that revolution, and both men became stars on both sides of the pond through films like This Sporting Life, Lawrence of Arabia and The Lion in Winter. Off-screen, though, both men were plagued by personal demons that threaten to upend their lives and careers. Harris's son, former Mad Men star, Jared Harris, explores his late father's complicated legacy in The Ghost of Richard Harris, a highly personal documentary that delves into the darker areas of the elder actor's behavior. Meanwhile, O'Toole's daughter, Kate, is one of the subjects interviewed for Jim Sheridan's not-always-flattering portrait of the late actor, Along the Sky Road to Aqaba. This exclusive clip from the film also features Succession star Brian Cox discussing what set O'Toole apart from his generation.  E.A.

The Ghost of Richard Harris and Peter OToole: Along the Sky Road to Aqaba premiere Tuesday, May 9 on Britbox.

WATCH IT: Its time to play the music. The Muppets rock!

It has taken 50 long years for the Electric Mayhem Band to record their first studio album  can you picture that? But now Dr. Teeth, Animal, Floyd Pepper, Janice, Zoot and Lips are finally ready to rock on the record. The new Disney+ series The Muppets Mayhem follows the veteran felt rawkers  along with human music colleagues Lilly Singh, Tahj Mowry and Saara Chaudry  as they navigate the modern-day pop scene and prove that rock n roll will never die. The series soundtrack features originals written by super-producer Linda Perry as well timeless covers of Beach Boys, Cyndi Lauper, KISS, Simon & Garfunkel and John Hiatt classics. Its time to play the music, its time to light the lights, indeed!  Lyndsey Parker

The Muppets Mayhem premieres Wednesday, May 10 on Disney+.

HEAR IT: Happiness resumes for the Jonas Brothers

After pulling off one of the biggest surprise musical comebacks in recent memory with 2019s Happiness Begins, the happiness resumes as Nick, Joe and Kevin unveil their sixth LP, simply titled The Album. The record finds the Jonases, who incredibly have now been a band for almost 20 years, going retro as they tap into their '70s soft-rock influences like America, the Doobie Brothers and another long-running trio of actual brothers, the Bee Gees.  L.P.

The Album by the Jonas Brothers is available Friday, May 12 to download/stream on Apple Music.

WATCH IT: Relive Clark Kents glory days with the Superman 5-Film Collection on 4K

(Image: Warner Bros. Home Entertainment)

Whos gonna be the next Superman? Thats gonna be a hot topic until James Gunn unveils his new Man of Steel for the recently announced Superman Legacy. But unlike, with say Batman or Spider-Man, is there any question who was the best? (No offense, Henry Cavill.) Christopher Reeve remains the gold standard in the red and blue, having made five Clark Kent adventures between 1978 and 1987  sure, even if some of them are subpar  and theyll all be available in one Ultra HD 4K collection landing this week.  K.P.

Superman 1978  1987 5-Film Collection 4K UHD releases Tuesday, May 9 on Amazon.

WATCH IT: Everybody say love! RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars is back

The unstoppable Drag Race franchise is needed now more than ever, in an age when the rights of drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community in general are under attack. The brave queens returning for the eighth All Stars season range from old-school trailblazers (Season 2s Jessica Wild, Season 5s Monica Beverly Hillz, Season 6s Darienne Lake, Season 7s Mrs. Kasha Davis) to more recent fan favorites like Heidi N Closet, Kandy Muse, LaLa Ri and Canadas Drag Race cult star Jimbo. Among the guest judges are Zooey Deschanel, Euphoria actress Maude Apatow, Idina Menzel, SNL comics Ego Nwodim and Bowen Yang, JoJo Siwa and, a bit surprisingly, Incubus rocker Brandon Boyd. May the best drag queen finally win!  L.P.

RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Season 8 premieres Friday, May 12 on Paramount+.

HEAR IT: Celine Dions heart goes on

Health issues have sadly kept the great diva from the stage, but this week, Celine Dions iconic voice returns on the soundtrack to rom-com Love Again, in which Dion also plays herself. Five new Celine songs, co-written by modern hitmakers like Justin Tranter, Dan Wilson and Ross Golan, are woven into the narrative of the film, along with classics like Its All Coming Back to Me Now, Where Does My Heart Beat Now and Dions famous cover of Eric Carmens All By Myself.  L.P.

The Love Again soundtrack by Celine Dion is available Friday, May 12 to download/stream on Apple Music.

PLAY IT: Don't cry  The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is here at last

Better tell your families you won't be seeing them for awhile. Six years after Nintendo unleashed The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Link returns in the highly-anticipated follow-up, Tears of the Kingdom. Journey back to Hyrule for another open world adventure filled with dungeon crawls, weapons crafting and cooking over an open fire. This game promises to be even more expansive than its predecessor, which is why you might just decide to peace out on our world in favor of moving to Zelda's land full time.  E.A.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is available Friday, May 12 at most major retailers, including Amazon.

HEAR IT: Allison Goldfrapp (re)invents herself as a solo star

Shape-shifting synth-glam goddess Alison Goldfrapp has made a name for herself over the past 20 years with her eponymous band, but incredibly, The Love Invention is her very first solo album. The lush record finds with joining forces with legendary producers like Richard X (Pet Shop Boys, M.I.A., Kelis, Sugababes, Roisin Murphy, Bananarama), Toby Scott (Gossip, Annie) and James Greenwood (Boyz Noise, Erol Alkan). The Love Invention isnt so much a reinvention for Ms. Goldfrapp, but its a welcome new chapter in the U.K. dance-pop divas illustrious career.  L.P.

The Love Invention by Alison Goldfrapp is available Friday, May 12 to download/stream on Apple Music.
Social media posts claim ivermectin has been proven to treat cancer. This is false; clinical trials are examining whether the drug can help reduce the growth of cancerous tumors, but health experts say it is too early to call the findings a cure -- and medical authorities warn against taking the antiparasitic unsupervised.

"Ivermectin cures cancer," says an April 15, 2023 Facebook post with a clip from "The Dr. Jane Ruby Show."

In the video, Ruby -- a self-described "health economist and New Right political pundit" whom AFP has previously fact-checked -- says: "We're starting to see evidence pour in that ivermectin has anti-cancer activity associated with it."

Another Facebook post with a photo of ivermectin paste intended for horses claims: "You CAN GET THIS CURE AT TRACTOR SUPPLY ! CURES ALL TYPES OF CANCER ! LOOK IT UP !"

Screenshot of a Facebook post taken May 4, 2023

Screenshot of a Facebook post taken May 8, 2023

Similar claims about ivermectin have circulated in articles and elsewhere on Instagram and Facebook for several months.

In the United States, ivermectin is approved to treat tropical diseases such as scabies. The antiparasitic drug is also authorized for certain veterinary conditions.

During the pandemic, researchers explored whether ivermectin could treat Covid-19, but studies failed to find a clinical benefit. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the drug for treating viral infections.

Despite warnings from major medical associations against taking the drug outside of clinical trials, social media posts continue to push misinformation about ivermectin. In late 2021, the FDA issued a formal alert (archived here) against taking paste intended for animals.

Asked whether ivermectin is a proven cancer cure, the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) said in a statement emailed May 3, 2023: "It does not appear from a search of our resources that the NCI maintains any information supporting the claim."

Research ongoing

Many of the claims about ivermectin's cancer-curing abilities appear to stem from 2022 posts citing searches on PubMed, a database of scientific abstracts maintained by the US National Library of Medicine.

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Some articles in the database do appear to tout ivermectin as a cancer treatment, including one (archived here) titled: "Ivermectin, a potential anticancer drug derived from an antiparasitic drug." But the papers do not indicate the drug is a cancer cure -- they call for more clinical studies of its potential use.

Peter Lee, chair of the Department of Immuno-Oncology at City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, leads a team exploring whether ivermectin could help treat breast cancer in combination with other drugs.

"There's certainly truth to ivermectin being able to kill cancer cells," he said May 2, 2023. "(But) it needs to be combined with an immune activation. And we're really in the process of figuring that out now."

Lee said the drug regimens his team is exploring only work when given in specific dosages at specific times.

"Simply saying somebody's going to take some ivermectin that they got from a veterinarian office -- that's not gonna fly whatsoever," he said.

Ivermectin has side effects such as skin rash, nausea and possible liver injury.

"We do know also that ivermectin at very high doses, can actually be toxic as well," Lee said. "So definitely, it shouldn't be just go grab some and take it yourself."

AFP has also debunked claims that the dog deworming drug fenbendazole cures cancer.
Bluesky, the Jack Dorsey-backed decentralized social network, isnt publicly available yet but its already become one of the buzziest Twitter alternatives. Scoring an invite to the service, which has been in a closed beta for barely two months, has become a sought-after status symbol with invite codes selling for hundreds of dollars on eBay.

The iOS app has been downloaded more than 375,000 times, according to analytics from data.ai, and the app has already become one of the most popular social media apps in the Play Store barely two weeks after launching. Those numbers may not seem particularly impressive, but considering the app only has about 65,000 users, its clear that demand for the service is far outstripping the number of available invites.

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky started in 2019 as an internal project at Twitter with the goal of creating an open source decentralized standard for social media. Dorsey, a longtime proponent of decentralized networks, had long championed the idea of such a standard, saying he hoped Twitter could one day be a client of this standard.

Bluesky went independent in 2021, and officially ended its association with Twitter in 2022 following Musks takeover of the company. Bluesky is now overseen by CEO Jay Graber, along with a small team of developers. Dorsey is still attached to the project  he has a seat on Blueskys board  but isnt running the show like he once did at Twitter. Jack doesnt have unilateral power, Graber wrote in a recent post on Bluesky. I have the most control over this endeavor.

Dorsey, who these days posts more often on Nostr, his other decentralized social media of choice, is at least an occasional Bluesky user. He recently took to Bluesky to share his latest thoughts on Musk and how he has handled the Twitter acquisition. The former CEO, who once said Elon is the singular solution I trust, said he thought Musk should have walked away from the Twitter deal, and that the company went south after his acquisition.

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The service itself looks and feels a lot like Twitter. Bluesky defaults to a chronological timeline of accounts you follow, but theres also an algorithmic whats hot feed that surfaces popular posts or skeets as early users have dubbed them. It doesnt yet have as much functionality as Twitter  there are no direct messages or video support, for example  but the interface is almost identical to Twitter.

Bluesky is also invitation-only, which has so far helped fuel its viral success. The platform began opening its waitlist more widely last month, and new users receive one invite code every two weeks (though some of the more prolific users get codes more often). Graber has said the invite system is meant to prevent spammers and others from easily gaining access to the platform, and to ensure it grows organically.

How is it different from Mastodon?

Both Bluesky and Mastodon are open source and decentralized, but there are some significant differences between the two. Mastodon is built on a protocol called Activity Pub, which has since been embraced by other platforms like Medium, Flipboard and even Meta.

Bluesky is building its own protocol, called the AT Protocol or Authenticated Transfer Protocol. As the company notes on its website, Bluesky, the app, is meant to show off what the AT Protocol can do, similar to how early browsers demonstrated the potential of the web.

According to Bluesky, one of the biggest differences between AT and other decentralized social networking standards is how it handles account portability. With the AT Protocol, you can move your account from one provider to another without losing any of your data or social graph, the company explains.

Bluesky uses labels for moderation.

Right now, Bluesky itself is running the only instance of the platform. But just as Mastodon has thousands of servers available, there could eventually be numerous Bluesky servers run by other entities. Thats also where the emphasis on account portability comes in: it should make moving between servers fairly seamless, including taking your social graph with you when you move, which isnt currently possible on Mastodon.

Bluesky is also taking an interesting approach to algorithms and moderation. On Mastodon, each server sets its own norms and moderation guidelines, which are enforced by admins. But while Blueskys team is to some extent setting their own norms for whats currently acceptable, the app allows users to customize what level of moderation they want, ranging from hide, warn, or show, for things like hate speech, spam and impersonation.

Bluesky lets you choose what level of moderation you want.

Right now, there are some moderation labels that appear on posts containing things like impersonation, but Graber says the goal is for labels to eventually be community-led so that moderations can function independently of individual servers. Graber has dubbed the approach composable moderation.

Similarly, the platform is planning a customizable take on algorithms. Graber has said Bluesky wants to create a marketplace of algorithms so users can be in control of how their feeds are filtered.

Why is it suddenly so popular?

Like many other Twitter-like services, theres been increased interest in Bluesky since Elon Musk took over the company. Its early ties to Dorsey and Twitter has also fueled the curiosity of those searching for a new platform.

But it wasnt until Bluesky began opening more of its waitlist over the last couple weeks that it started to become more widely known. As the service approached its first 50,0000 users last week, more and more prominent Twitter users have joined. Representative Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, James Gunn, Chrissy Teigen, Rian Johnson and other celebrities have joined in recent days. So have other recognizable Twitter users like WeRateDogs, Dril, darth and Musk nemesis ElonJet.

Its not just former blue checks though. Black and transgender voices have also found Bluesky welcoming. So have sex workers and shitposters. Needless to say, things have also gotten very weird, very quickly.

The massive influx of users exposed a technical glitch that soon became known as the hellthread. The glitch meant that long threads with lots of replies would break in the apps main feed but users would continue to see notifications for new replies. Just dont reply to the thread to stay out, Graber posted. Bluesky users, naturally, had other ideas. People not only kept replying, they tagged others into the phantom thread. At some point, users began dropping nudes into the hellthread, ultimately causing the apps developers to block nudity from Blueskys Whats Hot feed.

Weirdness and nudity aside, Blueskys current popularity seems to be driven by both novelty of the service and because its so much smaller and simpler than its predecessor. The small user base and invite system has also so far mostly kept out trolls and bots and spam that tend to make Twitter a lot less usable for high-profile accounts or people from marginalized backgrounds. At a time when Twitter has reversed rules protecting trans people, unbanned Nazis and harassers, and algorithmically favors those paying for blue checks, Bluesky is a reminder of how good old Twitter used to be.

Will it last?

Just how long the good vibes will last is another question. Bluesky isnt the first Twitter alternative to take off and see a surge in interest from former Twitter power users. Mastodon surged for months last year following Musks takeover of Twitter, and inspired high-profile Twitter users and developers to flock to the platform. But that growth seems to have now leveled off, and the number of active users has declined after months of growth.

Bluesky has some advantages over Mastodon: Its easier to use and much more intuitive for Twitter users, assuming you can score an invite. But whether Bluesky remains as popular as it is now will likely depend on if the platform can sustain the same level of interest once it expands beyond the current invite system. Many viral apps start off as invite only (Clubhouse, for example) only to fade into the background once they are no longer exclusive and novel.

On the other hand, Twitter is still a mess and there is clearly sustained demand for a non-Musk operated alternative.
The Department of Justice sentenced Jacksonville local 45-year-old Gregory James White to 13 years and 9 months in federal prison for attempted coercion or enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.

The Court also ordered White to serve a 10-year term of supervised release and to register as a sex offender. He also forfeited a cellphone that had been used in the commission of the offense. White had pleaded guilty on November 17, 2022.

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According to court documents, in 2021, White spent more than three weeks communicating with an undercover agent, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl, over a social media platform and via text message.

During these conversations, White engaged the fictitious child in sexual conversations and requested that the child send him explicit sexual images. On June 25, 2021, White traveled to a residence in Jacksonville for the purpose of committing sexual battery on the child and was subsequently arrested.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.

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This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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In Rolling Meadows in August 2006, two men burst into an apartment, ordered the six occupants to the floor, robbed them and, according to police and court records, shot a popular suburban rap artist when he struggled to open a bedroom safe.

Marquis Lovings, 30, who rapped under the name Keyz, was killed and another man was wounded.

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About a year later, Rolling Meadows police arrested Patrick Taylor, then a 38-year-old Chicago man, after receiving a tip and subsequently showing a photo array and then a live lineup to the surviving witnesses.

A jury convicted Taylor of murder in 2011 after a trial in which prosecutors presented a case reliant on the eyewitness testimony. He was sentenced to life in prison, though prosecutors initially sought the death penalty before it was abolished in Illinois.

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Now, more than 15 years after the suburban home invasion, the case is back in court, beset with allegations that police and prosecutors hid tubs of evidence for years that could point to Taylors innocence.

The case is at least the second in recent months in which defense attorneys have publicly accused prosecutors of withholding evidence in cases they argue do not hold up to scrutiny. Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx recently reassigned two prosecutors who were trying cases against three defendants accused of killing Chicago police Officer Clifton Lewis in 2011, amid allegations of prosecutorial misconduct by defense attorneys related to evidence issues.

The Taylor case was first pitched back to Cook County courts for a new trial in 2016 by an Illinois appeals court, which ruled that a judge should have allowed Taylors lawyers to present testimony from an expert about the potential pitfalls of eyewitness identification.

In the ensuing years, Taylor has not yet gone to trial, with defense attorneys asking Cook County prosecutors to dismiss the case, pointing to what they say are a litany of problems. Among them:

 A live lineup in which witnesses viewed Taylor while he was strapped down to a gurney in a state of distress, despite advice from eyewitness experts that police should ensure suspects in lineups dont stand out from others being used as filler.

 A ballistics match to the gun used in a shooting of a Chicago police officer about four months before the home invasion in which the officer identified a different suspect, who resembles a composite sketch in the home invasion case.

 A three-inch file compiled by a Rolling Meadows detective on an alternative suspect that defense attorneys say was improperly withheld until last month, when a court issued an order allowing attorneys to inspect police files. The suspect has ties to the person identified by the police officer as his shooter, defense attorneys say, and police reports show the man owned a car similar to one captured on video in the vicinity of the home invasion.

Cook County Assistant States Attorney Michael Clarke disputed in court that he withheld the police files, arguing that the Police Department did not tender the files in question to the state. Prosecutors have further argued that illegal guns get passed around all the time. They have sought to exclude the sketch, as well as mentions of suspects in other shootings related to the gun.

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A spokeswoman from the Cook County states attorneys office said the office cant comment on pending litigation. Rolling Meadows police officials did not respond to a request for comment.

They withheld a lot of evidence. That is troubling, said Elliot Slosar, one of Taylors attorneys, adding that prosecutors have tried to exclude evidence that could point to the other suspects. Its really inconsistent with a search for the truth.

A problem identification

A group of friends gathered at Lovings apartment on Aug. 19, 2006, when, as police reports describe, a brutal home invasion unfolded in a suburb with infrequent violent crime.

The two assailants barged in, beat the people in the home as they lay on the floor and placed pillows over their heads, the reports say.

The men demanded that Lovings unlock one bedroom safe, and grew angry when he failed to unlock a safe in a second room, witnesses told police. Thats when Lovings was shot and killed, according to the witnesses.

A second man was injured while trying to run away, and a day later described one of the attackers to a sketch artist.

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A suspect sketch as police were looking for a suspect in the Rolling Meadows slaying of Marquis Lovings on Aug. 19, 2006. (Rolling Meadows police sketch)

Rolling Meadows police Detective Dan Cook had a break in the case that October, when one of the home invasion victims reported to police that he thought one of the attackers might be someone known as Black Pat who was living in Harvey, according to the appeals court opinion. Cook determined Black Pat was Taylor and showed a photo array to the surviving witnesses of the home invasion, according to the court ruling.

All of the witnesses identified Taylor in the array except the man who was shot and injured, according to the opinion. That man was also the witness who described one of the assailants to the sketch artist.

Chicago and Rolling Meadows police arrested Taylor the following August at a gas station on the citys South Side.

Rolling Meadows police brought the witnesses in for a live lineup, and Cook testified at trial that Taylor started screaming, covering his face with his shirt, and crawling around the room, according to the appeals court opinion, and that paramedics had to restrain him on a stretcher.

Police made an effort to showcase giving medical attention to the other stand-ins for the lineup, viewed by witnesses one by one.

Photographs of the men in the lineup included in defense materials show the men sitting down with paramedics while wearing a blood pressure cuffs.

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In the lineup photo of Taylor, though, he is strapped to a gurney and appears to be flailing in distress.

An eyewitness expert retained by the defense to submit a report on the lineup wrote: The investigators attempts to create a common appearance by having the EMT staff attend to the fillers is understandable, a court document states, referring to the decoy suspects, but one cannot escape the fact that Mr. Taylor had significant medical challenges and was an unlikely choice for a filler.

Taylors original attorney sought to put an expert on the witness stand during the trial to testify about challenges related to relying on eyewitness testimony. The expert would have testified to factors that could cloud someones memory of an event, such as trauma and lighting, as well as circumstances around photo arrays and lineups that can bias witnesses.

The appeals court ordered a new trial for Taylor, who benefited from an Illinois Supreme Court ruling earlier that year that held that defendants should be allowed to bring such expert witnesses when cases rely on eyewitness testimony.

We have not only seen that eyewitness identifications are not always as reliable as they appear, but we also have learned, from a scientific standpoint, why this is often the case, the opinion in the case read.

One gun, several crimes

About five months after Taylor was arrested and charged with murder, Chicago police in January 2008 executed a search on the West Side and recovered a gun. They arrested and charged a man with illegally possessing the gun and ran forensics, according to details laid out in a motion filed in 2018 by prosecutors in the Taylor case.

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It matched the gun used in the Rolling Meadows homicide  as well as a homicide in 2001 and shootings in 2003 and 2006.

Wounded in the April 2006 shooting by the gun was a Chicago police officer, who, according to a Chicago Police Department report, identified another suspect in a lineup.

In the motion, prosecutors asked a judge to bar the defense from presenting evidence about the other crimes, arguing that the fact that someone other than the defendant may have used the handgun in question at entirely different periods of time has absolutely no bearing on whether or not the defendant used a handgun on the night of this offense.

Rolling Meadows police reports indicate that Cook, the detective, followed up on the gun in 2009, while Taylor was awaiting trial. Cook interviewed the man arrested with the gun, who reported he received the weapon from an alleged Gangster Disciple member. He reported getting the gun while another man was present, the report said. Cook interviewed the second man, who corroborated the story, according to the reports.

The man arrested with the gun was shown a photo of Patrick Taylor, and advised he had never seen Patrick Taylor, the Rolling Meadows report said.

Egregious misconduct

Taylors defense attorneys alleged in a motion to dismiss filed last month that the man whom the police officer identified as his shooter is the true killer of Lovings, and has connections to the Gangster Disciples street gang, along with the man who reportedly gave the gun to the person eventually arrested with it.

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Regarding the second man, the attorneys further alleged in a motion for discovery that prosecutors and Rolling Meadows police did not turn over a hefty file of investigative materials on the man that was compiled by police, in violation of Maryland v. Brady, the U.S. Supreme Court case requiring prosecutors and law enforcement to turn over any potentially exculpatory material.

The states callous positions are contrary to its ethical obligations  and infringe upon Mr. Taylors constitutional rights in multiple respects, the motion to dismiss reads. The egregious misconduct unraveling in this case warrants serious sanctions, including an evidentiary hearing and the dismissal of charges.

A judge on April 5 granted a request from Taylors attorneys over the opposition of the state to physically review the investigative file at the Rolling Meadows Police Department, and the parties agreed the inspection would happen after the next court date on April 12, according to a defense motion to compel discovery.

Two days later, Clarke, the prosecutor, offered Taylor a deal to plead guilty to aggravated battery and receive a sentence about equal to the time hed already served. The offer would expire on the morning of April 12, before the defense team could review the file, according to the motion and hearing transcripts.

With prodding from the judge, Clarke gave the parties more time to consider the offer, which still remains open, according to hearing transcripts and Slosar.

After reviewing the police files, defense attorneys wrote in the motion that they uncovered exculpatory evidence, particularly pointing to a raft of police files related to one of the men connected to the gun used in the home invasion.

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The file  which attorneys said was not turned over during previous discovery periods in the past 16 years  shows that Cooke requested information on the man from a Chicago police database.

Among information in the file, according to the defense motion to dismiss, is a red-light camera photo near the crime scene that captured a vehicle that matches the description of a vehicle described to police by witnesses near the building around the time of the home invasion. The file also includes a public records report that indicated the man owned a similar car.

Although Detective Cook conducted an intense investigation into (the man), when his leads failed to connect Mr. Taylor to (him), he simply buried the evidence, the motion to dismiss reads.

Clarke, who was also the original prosecutor on the case, said in court that police never gave the files to the state, but defense attorneys in motions included a 2020 email from Clarke, where he wrote in response to a discovery request that he conducted a search for any of these materials that may be in the possession of the Rolling Meadows Police Department and the Streamwood Police Department.

These are the breaks

When presented with a plea deal that would get him out of prison, Taylor, wrestled with the decision, according to transcripts.

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Im gonna say this  I really truly believe that with the right jury, its impossible for me to lose, he told a judge. But because I have a family and Ive been gone for almost 16 years, wrongfully convicted, Im willing to do exactly what they need done. What they need done is me out of jail. This is what attorneys do. Attorneys is to help you get out of jail. And sometimes ... these are the breaks.

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Taylor hasnt accepted the deal, and his attorneys are hoping to get the case tossed. But the deal, according to Slosar, remains on the table while the attorneys finish going through the evidence they say was withheld.

Taylors daughter was in eighth grade when her father was arrested. Ashley Redd remembers trips to the mall and Dave & Busters with her dad, until one day, she said, he was swept out of her life.

He missed a lot of my life, marriage, graduation, she said, noting her father was behind bars when she graduated from high school and got her bachelors degree. Its huge. Thats a lot.

Theyve stayed in touch by phone, and she hopes to see him as a free man once again.

Her own daughter is graduating kindergarten later this month. Shes holding onto hope that perhaps her father will see that milestone.

mabuckley@chicagotribune.com
CNNs Jake Tapper on Sunday questioned Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) over Sen. Dianne Feinsteins (D-Calif.) monthslong absence from the Senate.

And he compared Democrats response to their very ginger and very polite approach to pushing for the possible retirement of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who didnt step down even when Democrats controlled the Senate and Barack Obama was president. (Watch below.)

I mean all due respect, Sir, you and your fellow Democrats were very ginger and very polite when it came to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and not pushing her to retire when you had a Democratic majority in the Senate, said Tapper, recalling that the liberal justice held onto her job until her death in 2020 at age 87.

Howd that work out for you? Howd that work out for Roe v. Wade?

Some Democrats say Feinsteins absence from the Senate Judiciary Committee is delaying confirmation of President Joe Bidens judicial nominees. Durbin, who chairs the committee, has asked senators to show kindness as Feinstein recovers from shingles.

A New York Times editorial on Friday called on Feinstein to step down. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and other progressive Democrats also have called on Feinstein to resign.

Feinstein, 89, has said she intends to serve out her term, which ends in January 2025.

H/T: Mediaite

Related...
(Bloomberg) -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida finished a landmark visit to Seoul with pledges to seek cooperation on high-tech goods and commitments on a renewed reliance between the two countries who are key to US security policies.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Kishida on Monday said his summit a day earlier with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol helped him deepen the relationship of trust, as the two leaders hailed a resumption of shuttle diplomacy and cooperation on items such as semiconductors.

Before returning to Tokyo, Kishida met leaders of major South Korean business associations for discussions focused on expanded economic cooperation in securing supply chains for items including chips, South Korean industry officials said.

The visit marked the first formal summit in Seoul between the neighbors in a dozen years. South Korea and Japan were able to turn the corner on troubled ties in March after Yoon proposed a plan to mend a rift over compensation for Koreans conscripted to work at Japanese factories and mines during the countrys 1910-1945 colonial rule over the peninsula.

The friction hurt trade and security cooperation, and caused headaches for the Biden administration as it sought help from its partners in securing global flows of key materials that were less dependent on China.

Yoons proposal, which involves South Korean firms contributing to a compensation fund for the conscripted workers, has not been well-received by the majority of the local public. Any tangible benefits from rapprochement with Japan would be welcome for the president as his conservative People Power Party tries to reclaim control of parliament in elections less than a year away.

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I would like to further strengthen the relationship of trust I have with President Yoon and work together to open up a new era, Kishida said in Seoul before returning to Tokyo.

The two are due to meet again this month when Japan hosts a summit of the leaders of the the Group of Seven nations in Kishidas hometown of Hiroshima. Yoon, the Japanese premier and US President Joe Biden plan to have three-way discussions on the sidelines of the meeting.

Yoon, a security hawk who took office about a year ago, has stepped up joint military exercises with the US, some of which have also included Japan. The training has involved drills on intercepting missiles and hunting submarines  items that have taken on greater importance as North Korea has been deploying new systems to deliver strikes in the air and at sea.

Read: Kims Rare Display of Nuclear Warheads Sends Chilling Message

Japan and South Korea are treading a delicate balance between China, their biggest trading partner, and the US, their main security ally. Their position has become even more difficult as Washington and Beijing squabble over everything from technology, to an alleged Chinese spy balloon being shot down over American skies and Chinas partnership with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

--With assistance from Takashi Hirokawa, Sangmi Cha, Shinhye Kang and Seyoon Kim.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Jennifer Coolidge was among the stars to voice their support for the ongoing Hollywood writers strike at the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards on Sunday (7 May).

This years ceremony was pre-recorded after the ongoing Writers Guild of America strike led to the live events cancellation.

Find a full list of this years winners here.

During the broadcast, Coolidge was handed the Comedic Genius Award.

In her acceptance speech, The White Lotus star declared: Almost all great comedy starts with great writers and... as a proud member of SAG [Screen Actors Guild], I stand here before you tonight, side by side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA, she said.

Theyre fighting right now, fighting for the rights of writers everywhere.

She continued: I think, in the words of Shakespeare, he once said, The play is the thing. I dont want to put words in his mouth or anything, but I think what he really meant is, its everything!

Since the WGA began protesting over unfair wages on 2 May, dozens of shows and movies have been affected. Find a list of all those affected here.

Days before the ceremony, Drew Barrymore announced her decision to withdraw from her role as the events host in solidarity with the striking writers.

Saturday Night Live announced its episode hosted by Pete Davidson had been pushed back due to the strike.

Meanwhile, talk show hosts, including Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers and Stephen Colbert, wont be recording episodes of their shows, which will go dark until an agreement is reached.

To learn more about why Hollywood writers are striking, read here and find out all the celebrities who have joined the picket lines here.
A group representing big airlines argues carriers "have no incentive to delay or cancel a flight"

US President Joe Biden says he wants to implement new compensation rules for airline passengers impacted by flight delays or cancellations.

The rules would require airlines to pay impacted passengers beyond a ticket refund if the carrier is responsible for the disruption.

This may involve covering meals and hotels in the event that travellers are stranded, officials said.

If implemented, it would be the first measure of its kind in the US.

On Monday, Mr Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the incoming set of rules at a White House news conference.

It comes just a few weeks after Mr Biden confirmed he will be running for re-election in 2024, and just ahead of the peak summer travel season.

Speaking in front of the slogan "holding airlines accountable", Mr Buttigieg said that the new rules are aimed at ensuring that passengers do not foot the bill if an airline is at fault for travel disruptions.

"This rule would, for the first time in US history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay," Mr Buttigieg said in a statement.

The rules would also aim at defining what falls under a "controllable cancellation or delay" that is the fault of the carrier.

According to the US Bureau of Transportation Statistics, delays caused by airlines could include issues related to maintenance or crew problems, aircraft cleaning, baggage loading or fuelling.

Some airlines already offer travel credits or vouchers in the event of delays or cancellations, but the new rules would make passenger compensation, including refunds, mandatory for all.

The announcement is part of a broader push by the Biden administration to intervene on behalf of consumers around hot button issues including so-called resort fees and airline seating policies.

Last summer, the transport department launched an online dashboard that compares compensation policies of each US-based airline as a tool to pressure companies into offering more for customers.

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In response, many major US airlines volunteered to provide meals and hotel rooms for customers who are stranded by delays that are in the airline's control.

But, according to the transport department's dashboard, no airlines in the US offer cash compensation to passengers who are stranded for more than three hours as part of their official policy.

In response to Monday's announcement, Airlines for America, which represents the biggest US carriers, said more than half of cancellations in 2022 and 2023 were caused by "extreme weather" or air traffic control outages.

In a statement to Reuters, it added that airlines "have no incentive to delay or cancel a flight and do everything in their control to ensure flights depart and arrive on time, but safety is always the top priority".

The current situation in the US around airline passenger compensation is far less generous than some other places around the world.

This includes the European Union and the United Kingdom, which require cash compensation of up to 600 ($660; 523) per passenger in the event of delays or cancellations that are the fault of the carrier.
MANILA (Reuters) - Joint patrols between the Philippines and the United States in the South China Sea may begin later this year, a top diplomat said on Monday, just days after Washington clarified its commitment to defend Manila from an attack at sea.

Discussions were continuing on the joint maritime patrols, which were announced in February, said Philippine ambassador to the United States, Jose Manuel Romualdez.

"An estimate would be no later than the third quarter of this year. We should have that in place," he told CNN Philippines.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced in February he and his Philippine counterpart, Carlito Galvez, have agreed to restart joint maritime patrols in the South China Sea, which former President Rodrigo Duterte, who sought warmer ties with China, had suspended after he took office in 2016.

But Philippine Defense Secretary Galvez told reporters on Monday there were no formal discussions on the joint patrols with the United States and Australia.

Ties between the Philippines and the United States are seeing a reinvigoration under Duterte's successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who last week met President Joe Biden on a four-day visit to Washington.

During the visit, the Pentagon issued guidelines that laid out in clear terms the extent of U.S. defence treaty commitments to the Philippines that refer specifically to attacks in the South China Sea, including on its coast guard.

When asked about the timing of the joint patrols, a spokesperson at U.S. Embassy in Manila, Kanishka Gangopadhyay, said on Monday: "Our conversations on combined maritime activities with the Philippines are continuing, and our military planners are working hard on specific issues like logistics".

Australia may also participate in the combined maritime activities, Romualdez said.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which more than $3 trillion of world trade is shipped every year. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan have rival claims.

(Reporting by Karen Lema; Additional reporting by Enrico dela Cruz and Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
Neely, a homeless man, died May 1 after a former Marine placed him in a chokehold.

The death of Jordan Neely, a homeless man killed by a chokehold on a New York City subway train, shines a light on New Yorks law that governs the use of force by civilians, assistance for the mentally ill, and the lethal risks of chokeholds.

Neely, 30, died on May 1 after a former Marine, Daniel Penny, 24, restrained him in a chokehold. Pennys law firm, in a statement, said Neely acted aggressively toward him and other passengers, and their client acted to protect themselves. The lawyers said Penny, who is white, never intended to harm Neely.

Protesters hold Jordan Neely signs at the Broadway/Lafayette Street subway station during a Justice for Jordan Neely protest on May 6, 2023, in New York City. (Photo by Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images)

Neely, known for his Michael Jackson impersonations in Times Square and on subway trains, suffered from mental health issues, his aunt told the New York Post. A witness told NBC News that Neely seemed upset and said he was hungry, he was thirsty, that he didnt care about anything.

An estimated 80,000 homeless New Yorkers suffer from mental health issues, according to the New York City Council. For those familiar with the city, its not unusual to see someone agitated to the point of yelling and screaming on the street or in a subway.

Some guy yelling at you on the subway  you cant choke him out and kill him, Jeffrey Lichtman, a defense attorney who once represented John Gotti Jr., told the New York Post. He said its up to the Manhattan District Attorneys office to find out exactly what kind of legitimate threat the guy posed.

The legal question that arises: When does force go from being justified to unjustified?

Eli Northrup, an attorney for the Bronx Defenders, a legal non-profit, told the New York Times:

Police and prosecutors almost never apply the level of scrutiny to cases that they are extending in this instance. The practice is to arrest and charge first, ask questions later, especially when the person being arrested is Black, brown or poor.

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The medical examiners office said Neely died of compression of the neck and ruled his death a homicide. In a statement, the prosecutors office has promised a rigorous investigation that will include talking to witnesses, reviewing video and other evidence. This is a solemn and serious matter that ended in the tragic loss of Jordan Neelys life, the statement said.

The New York Penal Code, Defense of Justification, governs when using physical force against another person is appropriate. Under 35.10, A person may  use physical force upon another person in self-defense or defense of a third person. The Associated Press reported that the person who used the force must show that any reasonable person would feel the same way.

But the law also says that a person may not use deadly physical force if they can avoid doing so by retreating.

Black Lives Matter activists and their supporters occupy the roadway of the Manhattan Bridge on May 4, 2023, in New York City to protest the death of Jordan Neely. (Photo by Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images)

New York doesnt have a Stand Your Ground law that generally allows people to use force, sometimes deadly, if they feel threatened. Some 28 states have such laws, but their applications dont fit New Yorks. Few cities have subways, and only Los Angeles has a larger homeless population than New York.

In another infamous New York City subway incident, Bernhard Goetz shot four Black teens in December 1984 after one of them approached him for money. They all survived, although one, Darrell Cabey, became paralyzed after a bullet severed his spine.

Goetz also claimed self-defense, and jurors believed him. He faced four charges of attempted murder and assault, among others, but jurors convicted him of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, the .38-caliber revolver he used in the shooting. Goetz served a little more than eight months in jail.

In a more recent case, the rapper Kidd Creole (whose real name is Nathaniel Glover) received a 16-year sentence in 2022 for stabbing a homeless man to death in 2017. Glover, a member of the groundbreaking hip-hop group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, argued with the man while on his way to work in Midtown Manhattan. He fatally stabbed the man twice in the chest.

Neelys death has resulted in national headlines focusing on services for those suffering from mental health issues and reignited discussions about the lethality of chokeholds.

The chokeholds are so dangerous that, in the wake of George Floyds murder in 2020, several police departments banned the practice. New Yorks legislature made the use of police chokeholds a felony. And a major medical organization cautions against it. The American Academy of Neurology said law enforcement agencies should, at minimum, classify neck restraints like chokeholds as a form of deadly force.

Restraints can cause permanent injury to the brain, including stroke, cognitive impairment, and even death, the academy wrote in an editorial for JAMA Neurology, a peer-reviewed medical journal. The editorial said the restraints can cause unconsciousness and catastrophic global brain dysfunction. The consequences that result from limiting blood flow or oxygen to the brain due to the use of neck restraints are potentially irreversible and entirely preventable.

All of those issues  what the law says, the failures of treating the mentally ill, and the dangers of chokeholds  are secondary considerations to the Neely family.

A lawyer for the Neely family, Lennon Edwards, told the New York Times that Neely was robbed of his life in a brutal way by someone who decided that they were judge, jury and executioner on the spot, he said. We cant have vigilantes, and we cant have people taking the law into their own hands.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Jordan Neelys death raises questions about New York law and whats a threat appeared first on TheGrio.
Attorneys for the family of Jordan Neely have criticised a statement from the legal team representing Daniel Perry, the 24-year-old former US Marine who placed the 30-year-old homeless street performer in a fatal chokehold on a Manhattan subway car one week ago.

Daniel Pennys press release is not an apology nor an expression of regret. It is a character assassination and a clear example of why he believed he was entitled to take Jordans life, reads the statement on 8 May from attorneys Donte Mills and Lennon Edwards.

In a statement shared with The Independent on 5 May, attorneys for Mr Penny said Neely had a documented history of violent and erratic behavior, the apparent result of ongoing and untreated mental illness and began aggressively threatening Mr Penny and others on the train.

Mr Pennys attorneys said Mr Penny and other passengers acted to protect themselves, until help arrived and never intended to harm Mr Neely and could not have foreseen his untimely death on 1 May.

Neelys family attorneys said that Mr Penny would not have known anything about Neelys mental health history when he wrapped his arm around him for several minutes. Neelys death was ruled by the New York medical examiners office as a homicide due to compression against his neck.

The statement from Mr Pennys attorneys with the firm Raiser and Kenniff offers condolences to Neelys family and adds that for too long, those suffering from mental illness have been treated with indifference.

We hope that out of this awful tragedy will come a new commitment by our elected officials to address the mental health crisis on our streets and subways, according to the statement.

Attorneys for Neelys family said that it was Mr Penny who showed indifference towards Neelys life.

It is clear he is the one who acted with indifference, both at the time he killed Jordan and now in his first public message, they claimed. He never attempted to help him at all. In short, his actions on the train, and now his words, show why he needs to be in prison.

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Mr Penny was initially questioned by police and released. No charges have been filed in the case. Prosecutors with the New York County District Attorneys office are investigating whether to pursue charges.

A spokesperson for the office told The Independent last week that senior, experienced prosecutors are leading the case.

This is a solemn and serious matter that ended in the tragic loss of Jordan Neelys life, press secretary Douglas Cohen said. As part of our rigorous ongoing investigation, we will review the [medical examiners] report, assess all available video and photo footage, identify and interview as many witnesses as possible, and obtain additional medical records.

The investigation is reportedly being led by veteran homicide prosecutor Joshua Steinglass.

Neely  who was experiencing a mental health crisis in the days leading up to his death  was known among social work teams involved in outreach to New Yorks homeless community. He had numerous interactions with law enforcement and health responders over the years.

When he walked into a Manhattan F train on 1 May, Neely was complaining of hunger and thirst, according to journalist Juan Alberto Vasquez, who watched the incident and filmed Mr Penny grappling with Neely in a chokehold for several minutes.

Mr Vasquez said Neely was yelling that he was tired, didnt care whether he went to prison, and was ready to die. People in the car moved away from him, and a man identified as Mr Penny then came up behind him and grabbed him by the neck, he told Curbed.

Neelys death has sparked debates, protests and vigils across New York and on the citys subway platforms, where crowds have demanded justice and pointed to the failure of a system meant to support people like Neely.

The Independent has requested comment from attorneys representing Mr Penny.
The tragic death of Jordan Neely on a New York subway has shed light on the difficulty city officials and outreach groups faced getting him the treatment he needed.

Neely was on what outreach workers refer to as the Top 50 list  a roster maintained by New York City of the homeless people living on the street most urgently in need of assistance and treatment. An unnamed employee of the Bowery Residents Committee, a nonprofit organization that does subway outreach for the city, told the New York Times that Neely had hundreds of encounters with social workers and was taken to hospitals numerous times, both voluntarily and involuntarily.

Neely also racked up more than three dozen arrests. Many of them were offenses like turnstile-jumping or trespassing. However, at least four were on charges of punching people, two in the subway system.

Neelys aunt, Carolyn Neely, told the New York Post that doctors did not adequately treat him.

As his aunt, as his blood, I was crying out for medical help for my nephew  but everything was about insurance, she explained.

Doctors knew his condition, he needed to be treatedHe wasnt a bad person. she continued, adding that Neely was in and out of Bellevue Hospital.

The Intensive Mobile Treatment team, another street and subway outreach group, took him to Bellevue in March of 2020, where he was kept for a week. It was not clear what contact the group had with him after that.

He just needed better help from doctors who did not give him help when I asked, Neelys aunt said. I was really frustrated. I didnt know what to do anymore.

The Times reported that in November of 2021, Neelys aggression peaked when he punched a 67-year-old woman in the street on the Lower East Side. He was charged with assault and spent 15 months in jail, according to the police, though his family told the Times that the stint was shorter. When he pleaded guilty in February of this year, he was to go to live at a treatment facility in the Bronx and stay clean for 15 months. In return, his felony conviction would be reduced.

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Neely promised to take his medication and to avoid drugs, and not to leave the facility without permission, but abandoned the facility 13 days later. An arrest warrant was issued by Judge Ellen Biben. Outreach workers and officers who encountered him in the months until his death, unaware of the warrant, said they saw Neelys condition spiral. Two weeks before his death, outreach worker saw him in Coney Island and noted that he was aggressive and incoherent. He could be a harm to others or himself if left untreated, the worker wrote, according to the Times.

Police sources told the Post that Neely sank into a deep depression after his stepfather brutally murdered his mom in 2007 and that was when he began crossing paths with the police.

Neely often stayed with his grandparents when he wasnt on the streets.

James Berry, a neighbor, told the Post that they wouldnt let him inside sometimes at night because they were afraid of him. I never saw him violent myself, but I saw him sleeping in the hallway in front of the [grandparents] door a lot.

My wife would fix him a plate of food sometimes, and Id give him a couple dollars, said Berry. There was something a little mentally off about him, but we all knew what happened to his mother. Its a sad situation.

Jordan didnt deserve to die. I hope some justice comes out of this situation, Berry added.

More from National Review
The delayed trial for the man accused in a double 1990 Cape Coral homicide begins Monday with jury selection, which could take several days.

Here's what you should know about the case:

Who are the different parties involved?

Joseph Zieler, 61, of North Fort Myers, is accused in the slayings of Lisa Story, 32, and Robin Cornell, 11. He's represented by attorneys Kevin Shirley and Lee Hollander.

Previous: Joseph Zieler trial for double 1990 homicide set to begin Monday with jury selection

Wisner Desmaret: Wisner Desmaret's attorney files motion seeking new trial, judgment of acquittal

Assistant State Attorneys Daniel Feinberg, Stephanie Russell and Abe Thornburg will prosecute the case, while Lee Circuit Judge Robert Branning will hear the case.

Who were the victims?

Story was watching Cornell in Cape Coral. Cornell's mother was at her boyfriend's home May 9, 1990, watching TV when she fell asleep. When she returned home, she discovered the pair had been killed in the apartment.

Cornell's mother found their bodies when she returned the following day and called authorities.

How was Joseph Zieler implicated?

The case went cold for 26 years before authorities caught a break

Zieler was in custody on unrelated charges when he was charged with the killings in November 2016 following a DNA match.

Zieler was charged in the slayings of Cornell and Story after a grand jury returned an indictment on two counts of first-degree murder in November 2016.

He's remained in custody since Aug. 27, 2016, without bond.

What penalty could Joseph Zieler face?

The state is seeking the death penalty.

Recent changes signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis prompted the defense to challenge the legality of the death penalty.

Branning heard several motions during Thursday's trial call.

Two motions filed Wednesday by Shirley sought to declare the death penalty unconstitutional, citing the recent case where the man accused of fatally shooting 17 students and staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, on Feb. 14, 2018, received a sentence of life without parole.

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Branning reserved ruling.

How long is the trial expected to last?

The state on Thursday said it would rest its case by May 18. Hollander said he would need one day for his rebuttal.

Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Twitter @TomasFRoBeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran and Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Joseph Zieler's cold case trial begins. What you should know:
When Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley first pitched the themes of his upcoming book about manhood 18 months ago, the response was not just merciless but at least arguably homophobic.

Josh Hawley kisses his wife like his parents are making him eat broccoli for the first time, tweeted writer and producer Chase Mitchell.

I hope no one photoshops Josh Hawley in drag makeup, tweeted former GOP consultant Rick Wilson. That would be totally wrong for the champion of American masculinity. Totally. Wrong.

Lol, tweeted former Democratic Rep. Katie Hill, like anyone thinks Josh Hawley is masculine.

I wrote then that Hawleys speech on this topic was his usual all-you-can-eat buffet of victimhood. Men are so fragile, he argued, that a harsh word can turn them into layabouts and porn addicts. Which did not, however, make it OK to respond to his steak tartare speech about the lefts supposed War on Men by questioning his sexuality.

Thats still happening, of course, and its still indefensible. Some headlines about the book, which comes out on May 16: Manly Dude Josh Hawley To Release Book On Manhood.

Mob-Fleeing Dweeb Josh Hawley Is Writing a Book Called Manhood 

Josh Hawley Is Writing to Remind You Hes Not a Total Pussy: The scurrying senator from the Show-Me State has a big, manly-man book in the works.

Remember, no one loves your drolleries at Josh Hawleys expense more than Josh Hawley does.

And brace yourself, but some of what hes written in the book, at least based on what hes said about it in interviews, happens to be true.

As conservatives, hes said, weve got to call men back to responsibility. Weve got to say that spending your time on video games, spending your time watching porn online  is not good for you, your family or this country. Not only conservatives think that.

Porn really is degrading and problematic, even though someone who never calls out or publicly distances himself from our porn-star-paying former president might not be the ideal messenger on that point.

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Hes also correct that American men are suffering more anxiety and depression, theyre engaging in more substance abuse, though the greatest recent increase in alcohol abuse has been among women, and the idea that mental illness and addiction are the handiwork of progressive meanies is just silly.

While suicide rates are still far higher among men, the increases there, too, are greatest among middle-aged women.

Hawley claims that the left is eager to cast traditional masculine virtues like courage, independence and assertiveness as a danger to society.

They are? Examples, please, of anyone, anywhere, speaking out against any of these attributes, which arent only masculine, by the way, and are prized across the ideological spectrum. Of all the disingenuous claims Josh Hawley has made, this is among the most ludicrous.

Can we be surprised that after years of being told they are the problem, that their manhood is the problem, more and more men are withdrawing into the enclave of idleness, and pornography, and video games? he asks.

First, many men I know are on the contrary working hard to make this world a better place.

And to blame all bad-boy behavior on liberal aspersions is the opposite of calling men back to personal responsibility.

Men themselves are not the problem, lazy, suggestible and oafish as Hawley makes them sound. But some mostly male-perpetrated violent crimes  rape, for example, and homicide, which is both surging and committed by men in 90% of cases around the world  certainly are.

I hope that the senators new book speaks manfully about the domestic and sexual violence thats the ultimate show of weakness, and a lot bigger worry than some wounding words from libs. If it does, Ill acknowledge that hes at least trying to be part of the solution.
Mayor Lori Lightfoot will deliver her farewell address Monday.

The press conference is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m.

Watch live below:
Jarrod Miller, right, plaintiff in the lawsuit against the District Attorney, speaks with attorney Tyler Gaines after the hearing was recessed.

A motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against Western Circuit District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez is under consideration by a judge who said Monday that he will issue an order and send it to the Clerk of Court in Clarke County.

Senior Superior Court Judge David Emerson, who was a judge in Douglas County for 31 years, did not give a time estimate as to when he will render his decision. Judges in the Western Circuit recused themselves from presiding over the case.

Lawyers in the case argued the motion in Oconee County Superior Court due to a courtroom not being available in Athens, where a writ of mandamus was filed. The writ is a legal proceeding that contends an elected official has failed to do his or her job.

Oversight: Kemp signs signs into law prosecutors oversight commission targeting district attorneys

More: Georgia's oversight commission for prosecutors bill explained, how the Athens DA fits in

Dozens of people, some carrying placards supporting Gonzalez, attended the hearing. Watkinsville attorneys Kevin Epps and Tyler Gaines were representing the plaintiff, Jarrod Miller, owner of the 1785 Bar and Grill, in downtown Athens.

The lawsuit does not ask that Gonzalez be removed from office, but to force her to do her statutory duties.

After the hearing, Miller said he actually voted for Gonzales, a Democrat who was elected two years ago, but that he is now concerned about the criminal cases that have been dismissed and those that were pleaded down.

Miller also mentioned the homicide of University of Georgia student Ariana Zarse, who was killed by a hit and run driver, as a case where the prosecution failed. The defendant was tried before a jury and acquitted.

Since her election, Gonzalez has seen prosecutions falter in a number of trials on serious felony cases. She has also dealt with a staffing problem as more than 30 assistant district attorneys have resigned. The lack of assistants has created manpower issues.

Crime: Keep car doors locked: Thieves travel to Athens to steal credit cards, more left in cars

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Courts: Motion filed to consolidate rape charges against former Georgia football player

Gonzalez attended the hearing represented by Atlanta attorney Derek Bauer, who said a basis for the suit is a policy Gonzalez announced before her election that she would not prosecute misdemeanor marijuana possession and truancy cases where children could be taken from their parents.

However, nothing in her statement said she will refuse to prosecute any cases as she retains the right of discretion to prosecute any case, according to Bauer.

The lawyer contended the plaintiffs want to gain discovery rights in the case so they can root around for information.

Gaines argued that a mandamus is a legal action provided by the state General Assembly to compel a public official to do his or her job and was only brought after Gonzalez had been in office for two years.

Gaines said his client only wants the district attorney to do the job she was elected and he is not trying to interfere with her power of discretion on which cases to prosecute.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Judge hears argument on motion to dismiss suit against DA Gonzalez
A former Navy reservist who told an undercover FBI agent that he was inspired by the Unabomber and admired Adolf Hitler was sentenced to four years in prison for his part in storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

A federal judge sentenced Hatchet Speed to 48 months of jail on several charges stemming from his part in breaching the Capitol, as well as three more years of supervised release and a $10,000 fine. Speed has also been sentenced to three years for firearms offenses tied to his possession of unregistered silencers.

Speed was also a petty officer 1st class and a cryptologic technician in the Navy Reserve. According to Navy records provided to Military.com in June, when Speed was arrested on the original Jan. 6-related charges, the sailor had been assigned to several prominent commands in the Washington, D.C., area, including the Navy Criminal Investigative Service headquarters and the Naval Warfare Space Field Activity at the National Reconnaissance Office. The NRO is responsible for developing, launching and operating America's spy satellites.

Read Next: Vermont Bans Owning, Running Paramilitary Training Camps

Court documents say he held a Top Secret clearance and had access to "Sensitive Compartmented Information" -- the most restrictive documents in the national security environment.

Navy spokeswoman Lt. Alyson Hands told Military.com that Speed's enlistment contract expired in November 2022.

In court records, investigators said that Speed told an undercover FBI agent in March 2022 that he was inspired by and sympathized with Eric Rudolph -- the man responsible for the deadly bombing during the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta and a years-long bombing spree in Georgia -- and Ted Kaczynski, also known as the Unabomber.

Speed explained to the undercover agent that "it's useful to get into these people's heads and, you know, try and come up with a better game plan than they had."

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The sailor also had praise for both Hitler and the approach Islamic extremists took in accomplishing their goals. In a meeting April 7, Speed said Hitler was "one of the best people that's ever been on this earth."

In arguing for the four-year jail sentence, prosecutors noted that, unlike other military veterans who were prosecuted for their role in the Jan. 6 riot, Speed expressed no remorse for his actions.

Citing the judge in his weapons case, prosecutors noted that Speed's actions were "the most heinous betrayal of everything he pledged to defend by joining and serving in the military."

"Speed's conduct on January 6 was one step on a disturbing path toward racially motivated criminal conduct -- that ultimately featured plans for the kidnapping and mass murder of civilians," prosecutors argued.

Speed's lawyers argued for a six-month sentence and said that the sailor "entered the Capitol on January 6 to support the six senators who intended to lodge objections to the certification of the electoral vote" and that "his goal was to show support for those senators, but not to stop the process altogether."

The sentencing memo from Speed also cited his Mormon upbringing and a description of his character "as caring, contemplative, and compassionate as well as curious, well-read, and respectful" from friends and family.

-- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @ktoropin.

Related: Reservist Inspired by the Unabomber Gets Felony Gun Crimes Added to His Jan. 6 Charges
Screenshot: Twitter/@SenTedCruz (Fair Use)

We regret to inform you that the nonsense abortion pill lawsuit is not only still active, but will be heard next on May 17 by a very unfortunate group of judgesincluding James Ho, who has connections to both Justice Clarence Thomas and his Republican megadonor benefactor, Harlan Crow.

Ho is the Federalist Society/MAGA darling of Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals whos written very aggressive opinions, including one from 2019 in which he said that abortion is the immoral, tragic, and violent taking of innocent human life. Former President Donald Trump nominated the Texas judge to the appeals court in 2017, and Ho was sworn in in January 2018 by Justice Thomas himselfin Crows private library.

Read more

ProPublica reporter Justin Elliott resurfaced the photo of the ceremony the day the outlet uncovered Crows financing of luxury travel for Thomas, including many private jet trips. He tweeted: A detail from our story today: Ted Cruz tweeted this photo of Clarence Thomas swearing in 5th Circuit Judge James Ho. Turns out this is in billionaire Harlan Crows private library, and flight records show Crows jet dispatched to DC and back to Dallas before + after this event.

It appears that Thomasand maybe Cruztook Crows jet to this little swearing-in.

A detail from our story today: Ted Cruz tweeted this photo of Clarence Thomas swearing in 5th Circuit Judge James Ho. Turns out this is in billionaire Harlan Crow's private library, and flight records show Crow's jet dispatched to DC and back to Dallas before + after this event https://t.co/IwNjkwRsS6  Justin Elliott (@JustinElliott) April 6, 2023

The other two judges on the panel are Trump appointee Cory Wilson, who voted for a six-week abortion ban as a Mississippi state lawmaker, and George W. Bush nominee Jennifer Elrod, who said Obamacare was a fraud on the American people. (Theyre terrible on other issues, too: Elrod wrote the opinion striking down a federal ban on bump stocks, which make it easier to fire semiautomatic rifles, while Wilson wrote the ruling striking down the law banning people with domestic violence restraining orders from owning guns.)

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So, yes, this case is very likely making its way back to the scandal-ridden Supreme Court, after the high court temporarily blocked restrictions on the medication from going into effect as the case proceeds. Given this horrific three-judge panel, it seems all but assured that the Fifth Circuit will write an awful ruling, and the FDA will have to appeal it to SCOTUS. At this point, we basically have to hope against all odds that the court will be scared enough about growing calls for court expansion to smack the nonsense case away.

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A judge on Wednesday denied a request by the North Idaho College Board of Trustees to reconsider an order forcing the college to reinstate its president.

Kootenai County District Court Judge Cynthia Meyer upheld her March 3 preliminary injunction requiring the college to keep Nick Swayne as president for the remainder of a lawsuit he filed against the board. Swayne said he was placed on administrative leave without cause in December.

Far-right candidates backed by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee gained a majority on the board last year, and that majority suspended Swayne while Art Macomber  a losing candidate in the Republican primary race for Idaho attorney general last year  initiated an investigation into the terms of his contract and the circumstances of his hiring.

If the court was not clear in its preliminary injunction motion issued on March 3, 2023, let it be clear now, Meyer wrote in her decision last week. This was an attempted de facto termination of Dr. Swayne and it was not done in good faith. This protracted investigation into the formation of the contract with Dr. Swayne  whether the investigation involves potential missteps of others or even the current concern with the legality of the four-trustee vote to terminate the president  is a pretext for getting Dr. Swayne out of the way. It is a sham.

Macombers investigation lasted more than four months and resulted in a report alleging open meeting violations by former board members.

In response, the board last month voted to undo the June 2022 decision to hire Swayne to fix the open meetings violations alleged by Macomber.

Swayne, however, remains in his role as acting president.

After the board nullified Swaynes contract, Swaynes attorney filed a motion for contempt. A hearing is scheduled for June 2.

Meyer wrote that even if an open meeting violation occurred during the formation of Swaynes contract, any effort to nullify his employment agreement is time-barred under Idaho law.

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The intended conclusion of Macombers investigation was evident from the beginning, Meyer said. Thus, the board had 14 days to act after recognizing the supposed open meeting violation on Dec. 8.

It is unfathomable, Meyer wrote, why it would take months for the college attorney to determine whether, in his view, there was an open meeting law violation in the June 2022 time frame regarding the selection of college president. It took days for the same attorney to determine there was an Open Meeting Law violation at the December 2022 board meeting when Dr. Swayne was first put on administrative leave.

The board fixed the December violation later that month by voting a second time in public to place Swayne on leave.

Meyer wrote that Swayne likely will prevail on the merits of his lawsuit.

After Meyer ordered in March for Swayne to be reinstated, the board placed the previous interim president, Greg South, on paid administrative leave.

A new majority took control of the board in the November elections. The previous majority supported Swayne.
A New York City judge imposed a protective order Monday in the Manhattan district attorney's criminal case against former President Donald Trump that is meant to ensure evidence shared by the DA's office doesn't wind up on the internet.

Trump pleaded not guilty last month to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in connection to what prosecutors call an "illegal scheme" to influence the 2016 presidential election by directing his then-personal attorney Michael Cohen to pay $130,000 to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to prevent her from publicizing a long-denied affair with Trump.

MORE: Trump should not be subject to 'muzzle' regarding indictment, his attorneys say

Trump reimbursed Cohen through a series of monthly checks, which prosecutors say resulted in falsified business records in order to disguise the true purpose of the payments.

"Any materials and information provided by the People to the Defense" during the trial "shall be used solely for the purposes of preparing a defense in this matter," the order, signed by Judge Juan Merchan, said.

PHOTO: Former President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump attends a campaign event in Manchester, N.H., April 27, 2023. (Brian Snyder/Reuters, FILE)

The order said that "any person who receives the Covered Materials shall not copy, disseminate, or disclose the Covered Materials, in any form or by any means, to any third party including, but not limited to, by disseminating or posting the Covered Materials to any news or social media platforms, including, but not limited, to Truth Social, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, Snapchat, or YouTube, without prior approval from the Court."

Prosecutors sought the protective order because of what they called Trump's "extensive history" of making inflammatory remarks about witnesses, prosecutors and others associated with legal matters pending against him, assistant district attorney Catherine McCaw said at a hearing last week.

MORE: Dont 'piss off his voters': Recordings reveal DeSantis' 2018 thoughts on dealing with Trump

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Merchan made clear the order does not stop Trump from speaking generally about the case on the campaign trail as Trump runs for a second term as president.

"I'm straining to give him every opportunity to make his candidacy," Merchan said at last week's hearing. "This is not a gag order."

Trump will be required to attend a virtual hearing during which the protective order will be read to him. Prosecutors sought the hearing, and the judge agreed, to make sure Trump understands the order.

Judge in Trump criminal case issues protective order to prevent sharing of evidence originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
It did not take the jury long to find Austin Jacob Allen Davidson guilty on Monday on murder and associated charges stemming from the slaying of Deputy Glenn Hilliard in 2022.

The state characterized Davidson as a man looking for a confrontation with law enforcement and staying in plain sight despite being wanted on numerous warrants. A mere three and half hours of jury deliberation led to Davidson being found guilty of: first degree murder, second degree murder, first degree assault, second degree assault, reckless endangerment, firearm use/felony-violent crime and other related charges.

Davidson's legal team tried in vain to paint the Delmar native as a man trying to get out of town following a string of run-ins with law enforcement.

More on opening arguments 'He chose to take the life of a law enforcement officer': Hilliard slaying trial scene

The state countered with evidence that ranged from testimony by Davidson's acquaintances to social media posts and text messages where he was boasting he was armed with illegal and modified firearms, including an AK-47 style assault rifle with high-capacity magazines.

According to Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis, deputies received information on Sunday, June, 12, 2022, that Davidson  who was wanted by Maryland State Police in several counties, the Worcester County Sheriff's Office and city of Baltimore police  was at the Talbot Apartments complex in Pittsville.

Initial responding deputies, called at about 8:30 p.m. to the 7400 block of Gumboro Road in Pittsville, did not find Davidson, though about 10 minutes later, Hilliard saw Davidson near a stairwell and drove up to him. When Davidson spotted the deputy, he took off, Lewis said.

During the pursuit, Davidson fired at the deputy with an illegal firearm, hitting him at least once, according to the Sheriff's Office, and killing Hilliard

Deputy Hilliard, 41, was a 16-year veteran of law enforcement and a member of the highly trained Warrant Fugitive Taskforce.

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Davidson will now await sentencing from Wicomico County Circuit Court Judge S. James Sarbanes. He faces up to life in prison without parole. According to a statement by Scott Cook of the Wicomico County Office of the State's Attorney, "Davidson will remain in custody pending a pre-sentence investigation."

More on Hilliard memorial 'He was our protector': Wicomico Deputy Glenn Hilliard memorialized at funeral

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Guilty verdict on all counts in slaying of Deputy Glenn Hilliard
NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump should be held accountable for sexually attacking an advice columnist in 1996 because even a former president is not above the law, a lawyer for the columnist told a jury Monday in closing arguments in the lawsuit that accuses Trump of rape.

A lawyer for Trump responded by calling the accusers account unbelievable and saying nobody is below the law either.

Attorney Roberta Kaplan, representing writer E. Jean Carroll in her claims against Trump, showed jurors video clips of Trump from his October deposition and replayed the Access Hollywood video from 2005 in which Trump said into a hot mic that celebrities can grab womens genitals without asking.

Kaplan recalled Trumps comment that stars like him can get away with sexually assaulting women.

Roberta Kaplan, a lawyer for former Elle magazine advice columnist E. Jean Carroll, makes closing arguments on Monday.

Roberta Kaplan, a lawyer for former Elle magazine advice columnist E. Jean Carroll, makes closing arguments on Monday.

Thats who Donald Trump is. That is how he thinks. And thats what he does, Kaplan said. He thinks he can get away with it here.

Kaplan used Trumps words to support Carrolls claims that Trump raped her in early spring 1996 in the dressing room of Bergdorf Goodman, a luxury department store across the street from Trump Tower.

Trumps attorney, Joe Tacopina, attacked the allegations as absurd, saying they were an affront to justice and minimized real rape victims.

He agreed with Kaplan that no one is above the law, but he warned that no ones below it.

Tacopina told jurors they wont have to let her profit to the tune of millions of dollars because they will be left with no doubt about how this story, this scam of a lawsuit, came together.

Carroll is seen arriving at the federal court in New York on Monday. Trump rejected his last chance to testify at the civil trial.

Carroll is seen arriving at the federal court in New York on Monday. Trump rejected his last chance to testify at the civil trial.

Repeatedly, Tacopina labeled Carrolls claims as unbelievable, saying she brought them to raise her status and for political reasons.

And he said even Carroll had testified that it was an astonishing coincidence that a Law and Order offshoot aired an episode in 2012 in which a woman is raped in the dressing room of a Bergdorf Goodman.

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What is the likelihood of that? Tacopina asked. One in 20 billion? One in 10 billion?

Kaplan told jurors that it wasnt a he said, she said case but rather one in which jurors should weigh what 11 witnesses, including Carroll, said versus what they heard from Trump in his video deposition.

He didnt even bother to show up here in person, Kaplan said, referring to Trumps absence from the proceedings in federal court in Manhattan. She told jurors that much of what he said in his deposition and in public statements actually supports our side of the case.

Defense attorney Joe Tacopina, left, cross-examines Carroll on the witness stand with Judge Lewis Kaplan presiding on May 1.

Defense attorney Joe Tacopina, left, cross-examines Carroll on the witness stand with Judge Lewis Kaplan presiding on May 1.

In a very real sense, Donald Trump is a witness against himself, she said. He knows what he did. He knows that he sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll.

Kaplan recounted the testimony of two women who say they too were attacked sexually by Trump.

Jessica Leeds, 81, said he grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt on a 1979 airline flight. Natasha Stoynoff said he forcibly kissed her at his Florida mansion in 2005 as she worked on a story about his marriage for People magazine.

Trump has insisted in public statements and in the deposition that Carroll made up the claims to boost sales of a 2019 memoir. He has called Carroll mentally sick and a disgrace.

Carroll, 79, who is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, testified for more than two days. Kaplan praised her testimony as credible.

It was consistent, and it was powerful, the lawyer said.

She contrasted that testimony with Trumps deposition, noting that a man who had derided Carroll as not his type was shown a photograph of Carroll from over three decades ago and twice misidentified her as his second wife, Marla Maples.

Carroll, a former cheerleader and Miss Indiana, was exactly Mr. Trumps type, Kaplan said. She is smart. She is funny. She is beautiful. And, most of all, she is courageous.

Carroll said she was leaving the Bergdorf Goodman store through a revolving door in spring 1996 when Trump was entering the store and stopped her to help him shop for a gift for a woman.

Carroll, a former Saturday Night Live writer, said they took escalators to the stores desolate sixth floor, where they teased each other about trying on a piece of see-through lingerie.

She said she entered a dressing room with Trump before the flirting turned violent, with Trump slamming her against a wall, pulling down her tights and raping her. She said she kneed him after an encounter that lasted several minutes and fled the store.

Carroll blames the encounter in part for never having another intimate relationship in her life.

Trumps public comments are the basis of Carrolls defamation claim. Kaplan labeled the comments as lies and said they ruined her clients reputation and forced an end to her 27-year employment as an Elle magazine advance columnist.

Kaplan urged jurors to find in favor of my brave client, E. Jean Carroll, but she put no number on the damages being sought.

Consider the evidence and pick a number you think is right, she said. This lawsuit is not about the money. This lawsuit is about getting her name back.

Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, who is unrelated to Roberta Kaplan, told jurors that they would begin deliberations Tuesday after he spends about an hour reading them the law that will pertain to battery and defamation, the two allegations they must decide. If they find in Carrolls favor, they can award damages too.

Related...
The BJP is banking on Mr Modi's campaign to win the Karnataka election

Leaders of India's main political parties have been campaigning extensively in the southern state of Karnataka which goes to the polls on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led an intense campaign, addressing 17 public rallies and five roadshows in 10 days, to ensure his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) retains power in the state. In an unusual move, Mr Modi, who rarely stays away from the capital Delhi, even spent two nights in the southern state for campaigning.

The main opposition Congress Party's campaign is led by its president Mallikarjun Kharge and the members of the Gandhi family who have been criss-crossing the state, addressing dozens of rallies and meetings.

The assembly elections are significant as they come just a year ahead of general elections next summer and analysts say they could be a harbinger of things to come.

So, BJP workers have looked up to Mr Modi's campaign with great expectations. His campaign is also significant because it could lift the fortunes of his party in a state that has never returned a ruling party since 1985.

In the last election in 2018, the BJP secured 104 seats, falling short of a majority against the Congress and the Janata Dal Secular (JDS) coalition in the state.

The party then deployed a concerted effort to engineer defections from the Congress and the JDS - the coalition government collapsed a year later as its members resigned to join the BJP soon after it won the 2019 general elections. The BJP has ruled the state since then.

"If the BJP loses, it will mean that it has not been able to make any headway in southern India," A Narayana, professor of political science at Azim Premji University, tells the BBC.

"But if the BJP wins, the energy it will generate among its workers in the neighbouring states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu will be substantial."

Analysts say a victory in Karnataka will be a boost for the Congress

This is also the first election in which the BJP's top leader in the region BS Yediyurappa did not lead the campaign. A former chief minister, Mr Yediyurappa has been widely credited for steering the party to power first in 2008 and has played a major role in forming the government in 2019 after a hung verdict in 2018.

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Analysts say a victory in Karnataka will be a huge boost for the Congress, one that could energise its workers in north Indian states like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh which go to the polls later this year.

In fact, the Congress has an edge in Karnataka because of its strong local leadership, says psephologist Sanjay Kumar.

"It is the party's national leadership that is weak. No Congress leader at the national level has been able to pull votes for the party," he adds.

Perhaps, this is where Mr Modi comes in for the BJP, whose ability to pull votes is enormous, experts say.

"In a sense, it reflects the high level of dependence the BJP has on the prime minister," says Prof Sandeep Shastri, political analyst and pro-vice chancellor at the Jagran Lakeside University in Bhopal.

"Whether it is a state election or national election, the party believes that Mr Modi alone can get the vote."

Karnataka goes to the polls on 10 May and the results will be declared on 13 May. The state saw a rather sedate start in the run-up to the elections, although campaigns routinely became acrimonious with both sides indulging in name-calling.

With anti-incumbency at a high, the BJP focused on the achievements of its federal government, and not that of the state. Besides Mr Modi, several national leaders also campaigned in the state in the hopes of swaying the results in their favour.

The thrust of their campaign was largely populist. The party manifesto promises to provide free gas cylinders to the poor, subsidised food outlets across the state and free housing for the homeless.

It has also promised to implement the controversial Uniform Civil Code, a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation.

The Congress, on the other hand, has criticised the BJP for ignoring important issues and running a corrupt government in the state - a charge denied by the BJP.

In its manifesto, the party has promised free electricity, 10kg (22lb) of rice per month to the poor, schemes to help women who head a family and free bus travel for women.

BJP's party workers look to Modi's campaign with great expectations

But it was the party's promise to ban Bajrang Dal, a hardline Hindu group with ties to the BJP, that stirred up a storm. The Congress equated Bajrang Dal with the Popular Front of India (PFI), a controversial Muslim group which was outlawed last year.

The BJP accused the Congress of being "anti-Hindu", saying the party had hurt the sentiments of the followers of the monkey god Hanuman, also known as Bajrang Bali.

Yogendra Yadav, political analyst and member of Swaraj India party, says the implications of the election results in Karnataka "are going to be huge".

"The BJP has never got a majority on its own in Karnataka. If it does this time, it will tom-tom it all over the country to show that it has proof of its electoral acceptance in south India and prove that the Bharat Jodo Yatra [Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's "unity march" across India] had no impact at all," he says.

"This would demoralise the entire opposition."

Prof Kumar says even if the BJP loses in Karnataka, it would not harm its prospects in other state elections or the 2024 national elections. "But one more failure for the Congress will have a huge impact on the morale of party workers."

Prof Shastri says that so far, the BJP has been on the back foot, only reacting to the agenda set by the Congress. "Defending their record in governance would have required them to focus on performance which they don't have [in the state]."

He adds that the party has heavily relied on Mr Modi's ability to pull votes because it is facing difficulty in using its local leadership to that effect.

"But the question is - will voters give importance to state issues or not?"

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:
A week into contract negotiations between Spirit AeroSystems and the local machinists union, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran urged a timely agreement that keeps Wichita workers on the job.

Machinists for the aerostructures manufacturing giant, the citys largest employer, have worked under the same contract for 13 years.

Business in this world today needs certainty. And so Im hopeful, would encourage that the company and its unions resolve whatever differences they have and keep people working, Moran said Monday after speaking to the Rotary Club of Wichita.

Local members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers voted in March to sanction a strike option if agreeable terms for workers cannot be met.

Our primary objective is to reward our IAM colleagues with a fair and competitive contract as we meet the increased demands from our customers, CEO Tom Gentile said last week during Spirits Q1 earnings call.

Cornell Beard, directing business representative for District 70, declined to share specific union requests but said members dont want to go another decade plus without contract adjustments.

The membership is definitely not looking for anything long term, Beard told The Eagle. We have been 13 years basically without the true ability to fight, and I believe that this membership is dead set on being compensated and taken care of since theyve taken care of this company for so long.

Moran, the lead Republican on the Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations subcommittee, regularly brings aerospace executives to Wichita to showcase the citys manufacturing capabilities.

We have had a number of visitors who have encouraged and been pleased whenever union representatives were participating in the meetings, Moran said Monday.

Its valuable for our visitors to see that theres a sense of unity working together to get a good outcome.

It was a Spirit employee who, in early April, discovered defective fittings at the vertical tail of a Boeing 737 MAX fuselage in Wichita. The Federal Aviation Administration has determined the defect does not pose an immediate safety or flight issue but 737 deliveries will be slowed as Spirit reworks affected fuselages.

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What tends to happen is a lot of companies, their focus is on moving product rather than the quality of product, Beard said. We have some members that have a lot of integrity and are really focused on making sure they put out good work.

A Spirit spokesperson declined to comment on union negotiations beyond what Gentile said in the earnings call.

Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, did not respond to repeated requests for comment about the negotiations.
The Herald-Leader is profiling the major candidates for the GOP nomination for Kentucky governor. Read the other profiles at Kentucky.com in coming days.

Kelly Craft is running for governor, but if you watch television you probably already knew that. The campaign has blitzed the airwaves longer and more often than any other candidate for governor in whats proven to be the most expensive gubernatorial primary in state history.

Crafts political strategy is to dominate the airwaves, stake out important issues in advertising, bring down presumed frontrunner Attorney General Daniel Cameron and meet voters in intimate settings across the state. At every stop, the former U.S. ambassador to Canada and the United Nations emphasizes one-on-one time with voters and makes a point to thank any staff present at an establishment. Shes also set herself apart as one of the few candidates to have declared a running mate in Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, a prominent state legislator and close ally of U.S. Congressman Jamie Comer, KY-01.

On the issues, shes run a campaign particularly emphasizing alleged wokeness in schools, the drug epidemic and Kentuckys coal economy.

Craft has conducted a kitchen table tour across the state in the months leading up to her campaign, bringing along conservative star supporters like Comer and former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines.

With relatively low name I.D. heading into the race  she was appointed to her posts and has never run for office in Kentucky  Craft introduced herself to voters as a down-to-earth Kentuckian from rural Barren County, in the South-Central region of the state. Craft has largely self-funded her campaign, giving it more than $9 million from her own pocketbook. A political action committee (PAC) supporting her was mostly bankrolled by her husband, billionaire coal entrepreneur and philanthropist Joe Craft.

Kelly Craft on the issues

Education: Craft has centered her education message around issues with perceived wokeness in school and Critical Race Theory, which she says is a major distraction from teaching the fundamentals of reading and math. She told the Herald-Leader that parents across Kentucky have emphasized the issue to her. Theres a real concern over the quality of education, the fear of their children being exposed to an education based upon their woke left ideologies, as opposed to common sense values, Craft said.

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Economy: Craft echoed the concerns of other Republicans in Kentucky about the states workforce participation rate, which ranks seventh-lowest in the country. She said she wanted to emphasize getting more Kentuckians engaged in the workforce. She said that focusing on a practical education  including lifting up the trades  will help the state improve on those metrics. In an advertisement, Craft touted her experience on economic issues as ambassador to Canada and the United Nations. She hypes her work with Trump to rip up the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and establish the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) agreement, which largely updated the existing agreement. Among significant changes in the USMCA were increasing incentives for North American automobile production and furthering U.S. access to Canadian dairy markets.

Coal: Crafts campaign has hammered Attorney General Daniel Cameron for his support in allowing a coal-fired power plant in West Virginia, which provided power to many thousands of Eastern Kentuckians, to retire. Camerons office made the decision because keeping it alive would have required a rate increase and the plant did not employ Kentuckians. Crafts husband Joe is a prominent billionaire philanthropist who made his fortune from the coal industry. When asked if she sees a potential conflict between the source of her familys wealth and political advocacy for reliance on coal, Craft said that coal mining is a passion for us and pointed to the familys recent $4 million gift to help build 57 homes in flood-ravaged Eastern Kentucky. We live by to whom much is given, much is expected, and we have signed a pledge to give away half of our net worth, Craft said. ... To say that this is a personal financial gain, now thats laughable, and I would like for you to interview anybody whos been the recipient of our generosity because I dont think they think thats laughable.

LGBTQ issues , Craft has given her full support to Senate Bill 150, which was sponsored by her lieutenant governor running mate Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville. The bill bans gender transitioning, also known as gender-affirming, healthcare for minors and created new restrictions on teaching LGBTQ content in K-12 schools, among other things.

Abortion, Craft has said that she is in support of adding exceptions for rape and incest to Kentuckys trigger ban on abortion but has not proposed any further changes to that law.

Who is supporting Crafts bid?

The top giver to the Kelly Craft campaign is the candidate herself. Shes loaned her campaign more than $9.2 million. However, before the first finance report of this year, Craft had received donations from Kentuckians at a higher rate than anyone else in the race. A political fundraiser dating back to at least former president George W. Bushs 2004 campaign, Craft has connections across the state.

Craft also has some supporters in elected office, including one member of GOP leadership in House Majority Whip Jason Nemes, R-Louisville. The candidate has also hosted fundraisers with several individuals worth vast amounts of money, including local high-dollar donors as well as several from across the country.

A PAC cropped up in recent months backing Crafts candidacy. In April, a finance report revealed that Joe Craft was the primary funder of the PAC, along with others in the coal industry. The report prompted questions from the state campaign finance agency, as state law bars PACs and campaigns from coordinating with eachother.

Among Crafts campaign donors in the latest report were notable rival of U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, Sen. Rick Scott and prominent horse industry power player Bill Carstanjen, among many others.

What Crafts opponents are saying:

Craft has mostly faced fire from Camerons campaign and a PAC supporting his candidacy. That PAC, Bluegrass Freedom Action, sent out a text criticizing Crafts ultra-rich background and has released an ad bashing Craft for not getting Trumps endorsement and for controversy surrounding her empty chair ad.

At a campaign event, Cameron said Craft spent 6 months before she jumped in the race telling people she was going to get the Trump endorsement I got the Trump endorsement and shes been in freefall ever since.

Why Craft says shes the best to take on Beshear:

When asked why shes the best to beat Beshear, Craft emphasized her work ethic.

My work ethic I learned very early on as a child watching my mom and dad... thats why Im certain (Ill beat Beshear). Then also the work ethic I displayed in working to elect president Trump. That work ethic is the reason he appointed me to be ambassador to the U.N., to Canada, Craft said.

She also highlighted the fact that shes made a bigger deal out of issues like the U.S.-Mexico border and the drug epidemic than Beshear.

Craft quick facts:

Name: Kelly Craft

Age: 61

City of residence: Lexington

Previous public/professional experience: Former U.S. ambassador to Canada & the United Nations, political fundraiser, consultant

Learn more: kellycraft.com, Twitter: @KellyCraftKY, Facebook: www.facebook.com/KellyCraftKY/, YouTube: www.youtube.com/@kellycraftforgovernor

Quote: Im running for governor because we dont need another politician making more promises. We need a leader that is ready to keep one.

Heres the complete list of candidates running for Kentucky governor in 2023

Kentucky is electing more than just governor in 2023. Meet the down-ballot candidates
China hailed for success of Sudan evacuations

09:36, May 08, 2023 By XU WEI ( China Daily

A mother and her daughter are welcomed by a crew member after boarding the People's Liberation Army Navy vessel CNS Weishan Lake at Port Sudan on April 26. DING JIAXING/XINHUA

Hundreds of citizens, foreign nationals taken to safety

Like hundreds of Chinese citizens trying to escape the fierce fighting in Sudan, Zhang Yang and his co-workers resorted to one simple means of protection  the national flag of China, which proved more than effective.

Zhang, manager of a Chinese State-owned enterprise in Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, said his team experienced nerve-wracking moments as they tried to leave the city on April 23.

They seized the window of opportunity created by a three-day cease-fire between the two warring parties  the army and a rival paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces  which have been fighting each other since April 15.

In close coordination with the Chinese embassy in Khartoum, the team of 25 worked out an evacuation route before taking a hired bus north to the border with Egypt, a journey of more than 1,000 kilometers.

However, the trip was fraught with uncertainties, with the team fearing the possibility of crossfire and being intercepted by either of the two warring parties.

Zhang said, "We were fully aware that possibly the best protection we could have was to show that we are Chinese nationals, and that we had to make this clear to everybody on our evacuation route."

The team encountered four checkpoints set up by both sides, but passed through them all after showing the soldiers the Chinese flag, he added.

The Egyptian border was reached on April 24, and a work team dispatched by the Chinese embassy in Cairo, the Egyptian capital, arrived the previous day to help the team clear customs and complete border entry formalities.

Now safely at home in Central China's Henan province, Zhang said the nation's growing international influence, the close coordination by its diplomatic missions, and a high level of attention from the top leadership were the key factors that brought them out of danger in such a short period.

The first group of evacuees arrives in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on April 27. WANG HAIZHOU/XINHUA

China has evacuated more than 1,300 citizens from war zones in Sudan, adopting different strategies during the process, including the deployment of two naval ships that ferried 940 Chinese citizens and 231 foreign nationals to safety.

A strong emphasis placed by the nation's leadership on protecting the growing number of Chinese living and working overseas is behind the swift and successful evacuation missions, analysts said, along with increased national strength and the resolve to fulfill the commitment to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

Liu Linzhi, an analyst at the China-Africa Institute, said the evacuations of Chinese and foreign citizens demonstrated the Chinese government's high level of efficiency and the increased coordination between different departments.

"The successful evacuations make good on the country's promise to put its people and lives first and to ensure the safety of its citizens no matter where they are," he said.

"Chinese citizens in Sudan have also displayed a high level of trust in the government during the crisis and have closely cooperated with diplomatic missions overseas, another key factor to ensure their safety."

Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told a news briefing last month that most Chinese nationals had been evacuated from Sudan, and that the Chinese embassy in Khartoum would provide every possible assistance to the few remaining Chinese in the country.

The ministry was quick to act on instructions from President Xi Jinping after the armed conflict broke out, and it has worked day and night to protect the safety of Chinese nationals and organize evacuation operations, Mao added.

An evacuee arrives at Port Sudan on April 28. LI YINUO/XINHUA

Long friendship

The long-standing friendship between China and Sudan was key to the successful evacuation of Chinese citizens.

Zhang, the manager, said his company's local employees played crucial roles in helping his team reach safety.

"They accompanied us throughout the journey out of Sudan, and used their local knowledge and language skills to help us pass through the military checkpoints," he said.

The company, which specializes in petroleum engineering services, entered the Sudan market in 1996, and more than two-thirds of its 225 employees are Sudanese.

China and Sudan established diplomatic ties in 1959, and Beijing has offered economic assistance to the northeast African nation since 1970.

In one of the assistance programs, China set up an agricultural technology demonstration center in 2008 to conduct research on crop varieties, provide training for farmers, and promote the use of improved technologies.

Cotton varieties developed by the center have since been planted in more than 90 percent of the cotton fields in Sudan, People's Daily reported.

Liu, the analyst, said China has always upheld equality and mutual respect in its relations with Sudan, and has also refrained from interfering in its domestic affairs despite the African nation's shaky political landscape.

"Beijing has sought to contribute its strength to the development of Sudan on the basis of win-win cooperation, and has won recognition from various sectors in the African country," he said.

Liu added that the traditional friendship between Beijing and Khartoum would continue despite numerous changes in the political situation in Sudan.

The second group of evacuees disembarks from CNS Weishan Lake in Jeddah on April 29. WANG HAIZHOU/XINHUA

International focus

Beijing's successful evacuation operation drew international attention, as it helped citizens of several countries escape war-torn Sudan.

Mao, the Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, said, "Guided by the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, we have actively helped bring foreign nationals out of Sudan during our own evacuation operations."

To date, Beijing has helped the nationals of five countries leave Sudan on Chinese ships, and will continue to do what it can for other countries that have asked for China's assistance with evacuation, she added.

On April 28, waving Chinese flags and the national flag of Pakistan, more than 200 Pakistani nationals boarded the People's Liberation Army Navy vessel CNS Weishan Lake, joining 272 Chinese citizens at Port Sudan bound for Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Nasrullah Khan, 42, a Pakistani mechanic working in Sudan, who was among the evacuees, said the trip gave him a true understanding of the depth of the friendship between China and Pakistan.

An evacuee is helped with immigration formalities after arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport on April 29. WANG CHUNHUI/XINHUA

"Chinese friends opened their doors and hearts to us as we faced a dire situation. They took good care of us and ensured that the 18-hour voyage to Jeddah was comfortable," he told Xinhua News Agency.

The Pakistani Ambassador to China, Moin ul Haque, said the support provided by the Chinese government for the safe evacuation was a shining example of the tried-and-trusted relations between the two countries.

"Our two countries have a long-standing tradition of sharing weal and woe (good and bad times). We are grateful to our Chinese friends for the evacuation of Pakistanis from Port Sudan. It's no wonder that this unique and special bond of friendship, iron brotherhood and 'all-weather strategic partnership' remains the pride of our two nations," he said.

"This (the evacuation) has added another chapter to our long history characterized by mutual support and assistance in times of distress."

In an online post, the Brazilian embassy in Beijing also expressed its appreciation to China for helping evacuate a family of six Brazilian nationals from Sudan.

"The decision by China to help evacuate the Brazilians is another friendly gesture showing that the Brazilian and Chinese people stand in solidarity," the embassy said.

Liu, from the China-Africa Institute, said the evacuation missions, in which China helped the citizens from five nations, demonstrates Beijing's commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

"It shows that China is practicing this vision with concrete actions, and the nation is doing its best to help countries in need during times of crises," he said.

"This is the best embodiment for a responsible major country."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Gloria Austin holds on to her granddaughter Chloe Jordan outside the Hope Learning Academy school in Chicago on Friday. You cannot just stick these young children anywhere and expect them to receive the same level of attention, care, compassion and education, Austin said. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

At the start of her sons first grade year at Chicagos Hope Learning Academy last fall, Dequisha Johnson felt that her prayers had been answered.

Johnson, 29, had been preparing him for preschool since before he turned 2. But his love of learning had faded by the time he was in kindergarten where, she said, his school had no outdoor recess and administrators failed to stop her niece, who also attended, from being bullied.

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While considering their alternatives, she and her sister Dynisha Johnson attended an open house at Hope. Sensing the engaging and inclusive culture they sought, the sisters decided to enroll their kids. The transition was still difficult. But Johnson said she knew theyd made the best choice within the first couple of months.

The way that they lit up  their whole attitude, their everything changed. My son has never been this happy. He has never been as confident.

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And now, she said, It is being ripped out from under us.

Hope Institute  the Springfield-based operator of the contract school, which has around 240 students in kindergarten through fifth grade  abruptly opted this spring not to renew its operating agreement with Chicago Public Schools after it expires in June.

And the Johnson sisters arent the only parents unwilling to accept the alternatives offered by CPS thus far  of transferring Hope students, including those in special education programs, to nearby schools that parents have already decided they dont want their children to attend.

Family members have launched an online petition demanding the school be kept open, signed by around 1,200 people. Several parents and grandparents  including at least one who experienced Chicagos mass school closures a decade ago as a parent  mobilized to speak out at the April Board of Education meeting.

But while district officials may have listened, Johnson and others said they still dont feel heard, questioning why CPS cant keep the Hope school community together at its existing Near West Side campus. Families note that by contrast, CPS recently said it will keep two Urban Prep schools open at their existing locations after their charter was revoked.

If I wanted to choose any other school that was in the same district, I would have done that, said Johnson, who added that CPS officials at the board meeting offered what she considers false hope about students being successfully merged into other schools. 

All Ive been doing is crying, and I will say, stressed out, concerned as to whether or not my son is going to excel like he is here, she said. Is he going to be treated like a student as opposed to family? Is he gonna be bullied and how are they going to handle it. 

Were family. Were not just parents and teachers. We want to know what youre gonna do to our house. CPS already guaranteed jobs for staff, so why dont they just stay in the building?

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The exterior of Hope Learning Academy in Chicago on May 5, 2023. In March, the Springfield-based contract school operator, Hope Institute, abruptly opted not to renew its contract with Chicago Public Schools. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

In the case of Urban Prep, a CPS spokesperson said the district had the minimum six months needed to incubate new programs at the charter operators former campuses, in Bronzeville and Englewood. Hope Institute didnt provide the district enough notice to successfully incubate programs at its existing school facility, the district said.

CPS offered the Hope Institute a four-year renewal in January, and at the April Board of Ed meeting CPS Chief Portfolio Officer Alfonso Carmona said the nonprofits March decision to close the school, and school officials justification for it, came as a surprise.

In an emailed statement, a Hope Institute spokesperson pointed to CPS in explaining its decision to close the campus: CPS has impeded every opportunity for (Hope Learning Academy) to grow for many years. The conditions and constraints placed on the contract school have fostered an environment that is untenable. The organization said that, rather than provide services not meeting its standards of quality, Hope Institute made the very difficult decision to withdraw.

First grade teacher Matt Proshka, who has Dequisha Johnsons son in his class, was among multiple Chicago Teachers Union members at the school board meeting who said the contract school operator didnt value the schools students of color and large number of diverse learners.

Parents never got the respect of a face-to-face discussion about the closure, Proshka said. Hope management also said we had too many special education students. Unless the schools mission changed  I was unaware  our school has always been about inclusion and helping diverse learners.

CTU charter division chair Jen Conant also spoke, noting that Hope Institute made its decision to close on the heels of the staffs decision to unionize.

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Hope Institute, which operates a range of programs in multiple states, said serving children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities has been its mission for more than six decades, during which its been committed to bargaining with unions in good faith.

We are proud to have strong, positive relationships with our current unions and wholly respect our employees rights to organize, Hopes statement said.

As of the April board meeting, Hope Institute officials said they had not received a demand to bargain. Furthermore, we directly impact thousands of individuals and their families each year. To suggest that we are not interested in serving special education students is egregious and severely misinformed, Hope officials said.

Carmona said that despite CPS being blamed for the decision, it became clear in a discussion with Hope Institute leadership that the problem wasnt CPS.

From that moment on, (CPS focus) has been about: How do we actually do right by our students? he said.

William H. Brown STEM Magnet School, just a couple of blocks from Hope Academy, has the available seats to absorb the vast majority of Hope students, he added, but families will have the choice to select among Brown and three other schools, of which two will be close to their home.

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A CPS spokesperson said individual meetings with families are also ongoing: Our top priority is ensuring continuity of services and supports to our students, staff and families. We are actively engaging with school officials and families during this challenging time to develop a plan that best meets the individual needs of students and staff. We are confident that the district will be able to continue providing services without interruption and that students and families will have the support they need to be successful in the coming year.

Still, many members of the school community dont see the plan to merge the student body into other schools as the best solution.

We need CPS to absorb all Hope staff and scholars and to remain in our current school. Please do not let the school close. If you do, youre not just letting the school close, that you agreed to a contract with, you are allowing the closing of relationships and connections that have been created between teachers, scholars, parents, and the community we serve, Proshka, the Hope teacher, told the board, becoming emotional while acknowledging cost considerations may be a factor. You know whats more valuable, tangible and important? These scholars education and future.

CPS said its neighboring schools offer the same programs and services as Hope, while Urban Preps program doesnt exist in other district schools.

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East Garfield community advocate Gloria Austins granddaughter is a student at Hope, and another grandchild attended Hope. A longtime former Local School Council member at a different school in the community, Austin said parents are understandably reluctant to assume their children will experience the same level of engagement at another school.

You cannot just stick these young children anywhere and expect them to receive the same level of attention, care, compassion and education, Austin said. At Hope you dont have overcrowded classrooms. You dont have educators that browbeat students into submission. You dont have that issue with lack of compassion. The reason why parents are involved at Hope is because they see that the educators are involved in their children  and a lot of times that even extends beyond the classroom.

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A regular volunteer at Hope, Austin credits its local leaders, rather than Hope Institute management, with creating a beacon of hope in the community. Once she learned of the closure, Austin passed out flyers in the school pickup line, encouraging parents to mobilize. Like Dynisha Johnson, Austin attended CPS open house on families choices moving forward and was dismayed that keeping the school open wasnt an option.

To see this school close  it will just put another nail in the coffin, she said, given past school closures and an unfair stereotype that neighborhood youths are prone to violence. Those who are in the upper class and have the ability to say ... Its time for us to move on and close the school, really what theyre saying is We dont care.

Asked by school board member Joyce Chapman whether the district can guarantee Hope students will receive whatever services they need to excel at their new schools, Stephanie Jones, CPS chief of diverse learner supports and services, said her office has been working diligently to support students transition. We too value our families and want to make sure students have exactly what they need to be successful.

With the future uncertain, Dynisha Johnson said she hopes parents will protest, while her sister Dequisha is back where she started a year ago, placing her faith in prayer.

I dont trust that theyre going to do everything necessary for our children, she said of CPS. Even though they may have made up their mind, to me, my God has the final say.
The Louisville Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration seized nearly 1.8 million deadly doses of fentanyl and more during Operation Last Mile, an initiative aimed at breaking up Sinaloa and Jalisco cartel operations in the United States, the DEA announced Monday.

In addition to seizing the fentanyl, the Louisville Division also seized 544 pounds of methamphetamine, 621 firearms and more than $4 million in assets, according to the DEA. Additionally, 137 arrests were made in 28 unique investigations, the DEA said. The DEAs Louisville Division covers Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia.

The DEA said in a press release the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels are responsible for most of the fentanyl and methamphetamine deaths in the United States.

The Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels pose the greatest threat facing Americans today, flooding our communities with fentanyl and fake pills and killing our friends and loved ones in record numbers, J. Todd Scott, Louisville Special Agent in Charge. said in a press release. DEA will be relentless in our targeting of these transnational criminal organizations and we wont stop until they are defeated.

The DEA said the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels use local violent street gangs, criminal groups and individuals to infiltrate communities with fentanyl and meth. Cartel members also use a variety of social media platforms to coordinate logistics and reach out to victims.

The Cartels use social media and encrypted platforms to run their operations and reach out to victims, and when their product kills Americans, they simply move on to try to victimize the millions of other Americans who are social media users, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said in a news release.

Nationally, DEA agents captured nearly 44 million fentanyl pills, more than 6,500 pounds of fentanyl powder, more than 91,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 8,497 firearms, and more than $100 million, the DEA said. The powder and pills seized equals nearly 193 million deadly doses of fentanyl, according to the DEA.

More than 3,000 arrests were made in the operation, the DEA said.

The results of this operation  over 3,000 arrests and the seizure of almost 44 million fentanyl pills  demonstrate the Justice Departments unrelenting commitment to working with our state and local partners to keep fentanyl out of our communities and save American lives, Attorney General Merrick Garland in a news release.
Kevin Hart is disrupting the fast food space with his popular plant-based restaurant chain Hart House.

The venture is near and dear to the comedian as he is on a mission to provide healthier food options that arent accompanied by a costly price tag. It is especially important when considering Harts roots in North Philadelphia, PA, where he was raised near 15th and Erie. For his restaurants, he seeks out the healthier choices that are often unavailable to those in areas like those who are underserved.

The whole mission of Hart House is to bring affordable quality plant-based food to everyone, Hart told AfroTech in an exclusive interview via email. We love how our Westchester location is equidistant from the community in Marina Del Rey, as well as our friends in Inglewood! Monrovia for example is incredibly underserved in terms of plant-based offerings. We want to ensure we are bringing Hart House to communities that need more food options.

As AfroTech previously told you, Hart House has an array of menu items such as burgrs, chickn sandwiches, salads, tenders, fries, tots, and milkshakes. In addition, the offerings are made without antibiotics, artificial colors, hormones, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup, which are often found at traditional fast-food restaurants.

Hart House serves plant-forward food thats a better alternative than your average fast food chain and tastes unbelievable while still being affordable, Hart said.

Whats more, Harts vision is expanding with the promise of a third restaurant set to open May 23 in Hollywood at 6800 Sunset Boulevard, according to information provided to AfroTech. This will become the chains first restaurant with a drive-thru.

Over the weekend, Hart hosted an exclusive first look, welcoming attendees including TikTok food critic Keith Lee to celebrate the chains expansion.

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Prior to the private event, Lee had also shared a food review, with the promise to remain honest. He rated the deluxe hot and crispy chickn sandwich a 9.3/10

So grateful to have a @Keith Lee review, Hart commented on TikTok.

Hart will soon be adding a fourth location, opening near the University of Southern California campus at 3726 S. Figueroa St.

We have a sneak preview of the of the interior and large outdoor patio that will feature a fire pit and table games.

Courtesy Photo

Courtesy Photo

The growth of Harts quick-service restaurant is proof that he is positioned for continued success.

The best lesson I have learned thus far is to surround yourself with the experts in the field and build a strong foundation  anything that comes after will have less of a chance of failure, Hart expressed to AfroTech. There are so many aspects of this business that I am still learning, but I know that I have assembled the best team in the industry and our future is bright, and we are so excited about what lies ahead for Hart House.

Moreover, Hart House is a permanent venture within Harts portfolio that he hopes will one day make him a billionaire by the age of 45, as AfroTech previously mentioned.

Hart House is now part of my ecosystem, a sector that I am very proud of, Hart said to AfroTech. Together with the rest of my companies, we are all striving to hit the Billionaire benchmark together and seeking out synergistic opportunities where the right hand can now serve the left and vice versa.
Jose Luis Martinez still remembers the screams of his three daughters after US border officials took them away and sent him to a detention centre.

"They were crying and crying," he said. "Their mother had already died. All they wanted was their daddy. I was the only thing they had."

It was just after midnight on 2 November, 2018. Mr Martinez and his children had travelled over 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometres) by bus from their home country of Honduras, on a 15-day journey to the Texas border in an attempt to enter the US to seek asylum. The girls were then aged 10, 12 and 14.

For a month, Mr Martinez asked US officials over and over when he would be able to see his daughters again. He got no answers.

The US government eventually deported Mr Martinez back to Honduras, alleging he crossed into the US illegally. It would be nearly four years before he was finally reunited with his children in the US, where they were living with his mother and sister.

"They would call me and say 'Daddy, daddy, why'd you turn around? And I had to tell them I was deported," Mr Martinez told the BBC through a translator. "It was so hard."

Between 2017 and 2021, former President Donald Trump's administration separated at least 3,900 children - some only a few months old - from their parents along the US-Mexico border under what it called a "zero-tolerance" policy.

The policy was aimed at discouraging migrants from crossing into the US, and allowed the Justice Department to prosecute and deport adults who crossed the border illegally, placing their children in government custody.

The children, mostly from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, spent days in detention centres, where some were crowded into metal cages without access to showers and adequate food.

Hundreds of children had to wait years, some more than half of their lives, in the US in foster-care settings and with relatives and friends before seeing their immediate families again.

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US President Joe Biden officially rescinded the zero-tolerance policy within days of taking office. A month later, he established the Family Reunification Task Force to undo what he called the "moral and national shame" of the separations.

Previously, most parents were forced to choose between having their child return to live with them in the home country they had fled, or leaving them behind in the US. But under the Biden administration's new policy, parents who had been deported, like Mr Martinez, were reunited with their children in the US and allowed to remain in the country for three years.

As of March 2023, the US government said 2,969 children who had been separated from parents under the Trump administration have been reunited with family in the US, including some who were reunited during Mr Trump's tenure.

But on the five-year anniversary of the day the policy was announced, nearly 1,000 children are still waiting, according to the US government.

Status of reunification process

Activists say the Trump administration did not maintain thorough databases or records linking parents' information to their children, which several reports from the Atlantic, NBC and other outlets have also revealed. As a result, Mr Biden's officials inherited a "disaster", said Lisa Frydman, the vice president of international programs at Kids In Need of Defense (KIND), another organisation involved in contacting migrant families.

Reuniting the separated

Non-profit groups in the US and beyond have stepped in to help with what can amount to an international missing persons hunt, with few clues and painfully high stakes.

Armed sometimes with only outdated phone numbers, the organisations occasionally send human rights workers out looking for parents in remote villages in countries across Central America.

"It's been dangerous, time-consuming, resource-intensive and made that much more difficult during Covid," said Lee Gelernt with the National Immigrants' Rights Project at the American Civil Liberties Union, one of several organisations leading efforts to help contact families.

When the US-based groups need on-the-ground support, they call on people like Rebeca Sanchez Ralda, a Guatemala City lawyer and human rights worker with Justice In Motion.

Rebeca Sanchez Ralda has spent mornings walking to remote villages in treacherous conditions to reach parents of children who were separated at the border

She and her co-workers have spent hours poring over civil registries and Facebook profiles to find hints of parents' whereabouts, sometimes with only a common last name to go on.

Many of the people they're looking for live in remote villages and speak indigenous languages that US workers do not often speak. When the human rights workers get a tip, the journey can be long and complex. Ms Sanchez Ralda said she'd spent entire mornings walking on treacherous roads to reach isolated communities.

When she finally tracks down parents who have had children taken away, they usually don't believe at first that they could get them back. Many parents, she said, have developed a profound distrust of the US government and are wary of receiving help.

But for families who are able to reunite, it's a joy, she said. "Many of them never thought they would see them again," she said.

Non-profit organisations have located about 1,500 families since 2018, Mr Gelernt estimated.

But some of the advocates told the BBC they were worried US immigration policy decisions could lead to more family separations.

The Biden administration has taken a host of actions to try to deter an influx of illegal migrants at the border, especially in anticipation of the expiration of the Trump administration's Title 42 policy, which gave the government power to automatically expel undocumented migrants to their country or the last country they were in, most often Mexico.

In February, for instance, Biden officials said they would consider migrants who did not seek protections in the first country they passed through on their way to the US border as "ineligible" for asylum, with very few exceptions. Additionally, migrants caught crossing illegally will be barred from re-entering the US for at least five years.

Then, the New York Times reported in March that the Biden administration was considering reinstating in May a Trump-era practice of detaining migrant families with their children if they enter the US illegally, a measure Mr Biden had halted on taking office.

Though the practice is different from Mr Trump's zero-tolerance policy, advocates are concerned it could lead to de-facto family separations, motivating parents to send their children to the border alone, since unaccompanied minors can be released from government custody to live with family or other sponsors in the US.

"Implementation of this policy would be disastrous," said Jennifer Podkul, KIND's vice president of policy and advocacy.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment on whether it was considering the measure.

'Like a kidnapping'

Non-profit leaders argue much more work needs to be done to help families heal from the trauma of separation.

Some parents who have had to leave their child in the US have attempted suicide, racked with guilt and confusion about why their child was taken from them, said Cathleen Caron, the founder of Justice in Motion, a migrant rights organisation working in Mexico and northern Central America.

For the children, she said, there's bed wetting, nightmares and "deep trauma".

Some, who were as young as a year old when they were separated, don't even remember their parents when they are reunited, Mr Gelernt said. He remembers a four-year-old boy, one of the first families the ACLU helped reunite, who kept asking his parents if someone was going to come and take him away in the middle of the night.

Others now refuse to speak their indigenous languages or eat the food their families prepare for them, Ms Sanchez Ralda said.

"People have no idea the damage this has caused," she said. "It was like a kidnapping."

Advocates say families need more financial and legal support from the US government to help them recover once they've been reunited with their children in the US, as many lack access to consistent housing.

In 2021, the Biden administration was negotiating with families to pay them as much as $1bn (790m) total in compensation for the separations, in response to a separate lawsuit filed by the ACLU, but those discussions reportedly broke down after backlash from Republicans.

And while Biden's task force has reunited families, their three-year parole status in the US leaves them in a precarious situation, said Ms Caron. She noted some families could face deportation after that time or the possibility of another family separation, if the children have been able to establish a way to stay in the country while their parents are deported.

"When you don't feel that you're safe, it's very hard to heal," Ms Caron said.

A bittersweet return

For Mr Martinez, the journey to being reunited with his daughters - now 14, 16 and 18 - has proved bittersweet.

"I was very happy to know that I could be there and that I could at least start helping them from the moment that I got there, but it was also very painful for everything that we suffered," he said.

Jose Luiz Martinez's daughters were overjoyed when they heard they would be reunited with Mr Martinez (right), their former lawyer Anilu Chadwick (left) said

For his girls, the news that they would see their father again evoked pure, uncontainable joy, according to their former lawyer, Anilu Chadwick.

"They started crying and screaming. I wanted to scream, too," she said. "The wash of relief was just instantaneous."

Mr Martinez and his girls now live with his mother and sister in New York City. He said he dreams of building a home for them in Honduras one day so they can all have a place to be together there, too.

The 54-year-old father said after four years away from his daughters, their gentle and loving personalities have not changed. But the pain of their time apart has left an indelible mark, he said.

"It's incurable." he said. "It's never going to go away. It's going to remain in the hearts of each of them."
King Charles III, seen here with Ralph Gonsalves, is head of state in a number of Caribbean countries

The Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines has said having a British monarch as head of state is "an absurdity" he would like to end in his lifetime.

Ralph Gonsalves said he would welcome an apology from the British state and monarchy on past injustices relating to slavery.

He said he believes King Charles III is open to talking about reparations.

King Charles is head of state in eight Caribbean countries.

Within the past year, political leaders in the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda have all indicated their plans to review their positions as constitutional monarchies.

The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew, told the BBC his country is "not totally free" as long as King Charles III remains head of state and that a public consultation on whether the nation should become a republic would begin during his leadership.

Speaking to the BBC two days after the coronation, Dr Gonsalves said the current constitutional arrangement "offends people in a psychological way" and his country wanted a president "selected by our own constitutional processes".

In 2009, St Vincent and the Grenadines held a referendum to decide whether to transition to a republic. Forty-five per cent of voters chose to replace Queen Elizabeth II with a ceremonial president - falling far short of the two-thirds required.

Mr Gonsalves has said he would like to try again.

"I don't know whether it will happen. But I'm hoping so. If it doesn't happen, somebody else will stand on my shoulders and carry forth that work," he said.

According to a recent poll conducted in the 15 countries where the King is head of state, St Vincent and the Grenadines is among those most opposed to becoming a republic.

The survey, conducted by UK politician-turned-pollster Lord Ashcroft, suggests that the idea would be rejected by a majority of 63% to 34%.

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Lord Ashcroft Polls interviewed 22,701 adults across the 15 countries between 6 February and 23 March.

'Open to conversation'

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said the decision on transitioning to a republic "is purely a matter for each country to decide".

Mr Gonsalves added he would welcome an apology from both King Charles and the British government on the legacy of slavery.

"King Charles at least, is clearly interested in having a conversation. And I welcome that. But I don't know whether King Charles is going to do an apology without the British state."

Buckingham Palace told the BBC the King takes slavery "profoundly seriously".

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves was in office the last time St Vincent and the Grenadines voted on having the British monarch as head of state in 2009

Buckingham Palace has said that it is co-operating with an independent study exploring the relationship between the British monarchy and the slave trade in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Mr Gonsalves said he had contacted David Cameron's government on the issue, but was rejected.

"Their response was that, 'Look, we're not doing apologies. Let's look forward, let us learn. Let's not look to the past'. There's only one problem with that. The present is the past," he said.

Mr Gonsalves said the current UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, was also wrong for refusing to apologise for the UK's historic role in the slave trade, adding that going to the International Criminal Court to pursue the issue was also an option.

"We can continue the political work, we can do diplomatic work, but we can also go to the International Court of Justice, for example," he said.

"But I would prefer if we have the conversation, rather than to have to do that."

Speaking two days after the Coronation, Dr Gonsalves praised the King for his positions on climate change and inter-faith dialogue.

"I hold his Majesty in great personal regard," he said.

"My conversation is not one of revenge. It is just something which is reasonable and fair."
LONDON (AP)  If one thread ran throughout the festivities marking the coronation of King Charles III, it was the idea of public service.

It was there when Charles stood before a choirboy at Westminster Abbey on Saturday and promised to serve. It was there in the words of his son, Prince William, during Sunday's concert at Windsor Castle. And it is there in the day of volunteerism that the king called for on Monday's holiday in the U.K.

It's a strange word from the lips of a king  not exactly the stuff of fairy tales, or monarchs leading armies into battle, or shouting, Off with their heads! Its been more than 260 years since a British king led troops in the field, and Charles is legally barred from meddling in politics.

Despite the trappings of medieval power on display at the coronation, a modern monarchy links the royal family to the people of the United Kingdom and the 14 other countries Charles serves as head of state.

His grandfather, King George VI, is remembered for staying in London during the German bombing raids of World War II, showing the people that he was with them.

His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, endeared herself to the nation with 70 years of public duties, sprinkling a bit of royal stardust on communities from Belfast to Brighton. As a young princess, she pledged that my whole life, whether it be short or long, will be devoted to your service.

She did it not just with mundane ribbon cuttings and tree plantings, but also by boosting the morale of health care workers during the pandemic and supporting charities that helped veterans and the disadvantaged.

Charles reign, and the future of the monarchy, will rest on whether he and his heir, Prince William, can maintain that link in a country that is much less deferential to royalty than the one that cheered Elizabeths coronation in 1953.

Its a marriage between the monarch and the people, said former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole. His life has been dedicated to service. And I think that youre going to see that more and more and more. Hes very committed to it. Hes utterly sincere and it will be up for other people to judge  and I hope they judge fairly and honestly  because nobody can doubt his good intentions.

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Throughout the weekend, Charles pledged to serve and recognized the service of others. When he walked into Westminster Abbey on Saturday morning, with four page boys carrying the train of his flowing robe, he walked past prime ministers and global dignitaries.

But in the side chapels, out of sight of the cameras, were hundreds of the usually anonymous people who make the United Kingdom tick. People like Barbara Swinn, a librarian from York, Kim Beck, who works with Afghan refugees in Solihull, and Naomi Brock, who does community work and looks after four foster children, and well as five of her own, in Olney. All were invited to the abbey to honor their service to their communities.

Prince William picked up the theme Sunday night as 20,000 people gathered in the shadow of Windsor Castle for a concert headlined by Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That.

After saluting his fathers work to protect the environment and help the disadvantaged, William turned his attention to others.

I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve  in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities, he said. I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us.

The theme carried through to Monday's final act of the holiday weekend, a less-glitzy affair that is being called The Big Help Out. Hoping to inspire a new generation of volunteers, Buckingham Palace asked people around the country to donate a few hours to local charities.

Its a modern role for a modern monarchy.

As Britains ceremonial head of state, the king is symbol of stability and unity who helps the nation celebrate its victories and consoles it during times of adversity.

Some argue that these duties are better performed by an elected head of state, not a 74-year-old man who inherited wealth and status by an accident of birth. But supporters argue that Britain is better off with a hereditary monarch, above the fray of party politics, who doesnt have to face voters regularly.

That debate, muted recently out of respect for the aging queen, is likely to intensify during Charles reign. There were rumblings of that over the weekend, when police arrested anti-monarchist protesters.

These arrests were not about protecting people from harm, but about protecting the king from embarrassment, said Graham Smith, head of the campaign group Republic. It was the state wanting to stamp down dissent in order to present an image of a grateful and consenting public at the time of the coronation.

Others grumbled that the coronation was too filled with the trappings of the Church of England for a country that isnt very religious, too much medieval pageantry for a modern nation that has ditched many of the formalities of the past, and too much military involvement for a diminished world power.

These traditions provide the historical underpinnings of the monarchy and give the royal family its majesty and its mystique.

But Charles  and William  know thats not enough.

A day after the crown was placed on Charles head, William ended his speech  like his grandmother decades earlier  by pledging to continue his fathers work.

I commit myself to serve you all, the heir said.

___

Follow AP's coronation coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/king-charles-iii
Consequences of Russia's attack in Kyiv

"This was the most massive attack on our city since the beginning of the war," Klitschko said.

Read also: Russia receives new batch of Shahed attack drones from Iran, Humeniuk says

All of the drones were shot down. Thanks to our air defenses, no one was killed. Five people were wounded; their lives are not in danger. There is damage to residential buildings, kindergartens, and schools.

Klitschko said a city commission will assess the damage.

"The city will do everything possible to repair the housing as soon as possible. Today, safety is the most important issue," the mayor stressed.

Read also: Running out of missiles? Russia launches third mass attack on Ukraine this week, with Shahed drones

Ruslan Kravchenko, the head of the Kyiv Oblast Military Administration, said on Facebook that a private house in one district of the capital was slightly damaged by falling debris. Power lines were damaged in another community.

In addition, according to preliminary data, dry grass caught fire in several areas as a result of the fall of drone debris. The fires were promptly extinguished.

In the early hours of May 8, a total of 35 incoming Iranian-built UAVs were detected and destroyed as the entered Kyiv's airspace in waves. Five people were injured, and the wreckage fell on a residential building and the runway of Zhuliany airport.

The air raid alert lasted over three-and-a-half hours.

Read also: Three people injured, one missing after fresh Russian strike on Odesa Oblast

Elsewhere, Russian Tu-22 strategic bombers launched a cruise missile attack at Odesa Oblast. The Kh-22 anti-ship missiles at a warehouse of a food company and a recreational area on the Black Sea coast. A fire broke out at the warehouse.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Emergency personnel respond to a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Several migrants were killed after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter. | Michael Gonzalez, Associated Press

The driver of an SUV that plowed into a crowd of people waiting for a bus in Brownsville, Texas, Sunday night has been arrested.

At least eight people were killed, and at least 10 were injured in the incident. The crash took place outside a migrant city in the border city of Brownsville, and according to shelter director Victor Maldonado, the people who were hit by the SUV had just spent the night in the shelter, The Associated Press reported.

This SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about 100 feet (30 meters) away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop, Maldonado said, per AP News.

Who was the driver of the SUV?

The driver was identified as 34-year-old Brownsville resident George Alvarez, and he has been charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of assault with a deadly weapon, according to CBS News.

His bond is currently set at $3.6 million, per CBS News. Police say Alvarez attempted to flee the scene after the deadly crash, but was held down by a group of people who had witnessed it, per CBS News.

Its not clear yet whether the crash was on purpose or an accident. A majority of the people struck by the vehicle were migrant men from Venezuela.

It can be three factors, Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval told Politico. It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two.

The New York Times reported that Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda are investigating reports that Mr. Alvarez had yelled anti-immigration epithets at the group.

His SUV struck a total of at least 18 people  six died on the scene, and two died later from their injuries, per the Times.
Eight people were killed and seven injured when a gunman opened fire Saturday afternoon at the Allen Premium Outlets mall in North Texas.

Authorities said an officer was who at the mall on an unrelated call killed the suspect, 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, of Dallas.

All eight of the victims who died have been publicly identified:

Daniela Mendoza and Sofia Mendoza

The sisters attended Cox Elementary School in the Wylie school district, according to a statement from the district. Daniela Mendoza was in fourth grade, and Sofia Mendoza was in second grade. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the children were 11 and 8.

The school district said the girls mother, Ilda, was in critical condition at a hospital.

Daniela Mendoza, 11, and Sofia Mendoza, 8, were killed in the May 6 shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets mall.

CBS News reported that the childrens principal, Krista Wilson, described the girls as rays of sunshine.

Words cannot express the sadness we feel as we grieve the loss of our students, read a letter sent to school parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mendoza family, the families of the victims, and all those affected by this senseless tragedy.

A verified GoFundMe account has been started for the Mendoza sisters family.

With a heavy heart, we share that our beautiful Daniel and Sofia have passed away, the girls aunt wrote on the GoFundMe page. They were tragically taken from us by a senseless act on May 6th, 2023. Their mom is currently still hospitalized. We want to thank everyone that has been reaching out and offering their support and assistance. Please pray for our now broken family. The girls have left a void that nothing in the world could ever fill. Please pray for their mom, my sister, and her broken heart. Please also pray for their dad, that despite all the trauma he has had to endure, is still unbelievably strong. They will be forever missed and loved.

Kyu Song Cho, Cindy Cho and James Cho

Three members of a Korean-American family were among the dead, the Yonhap News Agency reported. A couple and their 3-year-old son were killed. Another of the couples children, identified as 6-year-old William Cho in a GoFundMe raising money for their family, was also shot. William was released from a childrens hospital on Thursday.

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In a statement released by the hospital Wednesday, Williams family said, Our hearts are broken for our beloved family members who are no longer with us. We are deeply grateful and sincerely appreciate the outpouring of support and prayers.

William is recovering well, the family said.

All of our attention is now focused on ensuring William leads a happy, healthy life with his extended family who love him dearly, their statement said.

Cindy Cho, Kyu Song Cho and their 3-year-old son James Cho were three of the victims killed in a mass shooting attack at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday. Their 6-year-old son, William Cho, was also shot but survived and has been released from the ICU, according to a GoFundMe raising money to help the family.

The parents were Kyu Song Cho, 37, and Cindy Cho, 35, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The GoFundMe identifies the 3-year-old as James Cho.

William Cho celebrated his birthday four days before the shooting.

An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left 8 victims dead, the GoFundMe organizer wrote in the fundraisers description. Cindy, Kyu and 3-year-old James were among those victims that tragically lost their lives and the family is in deep mourning.

William attends Prestonwood Christian Academy. James was in preschool and loved elephants, his teacher Trinity Whitley told WFAA-TV.

He was sweet and smart, and he was so cute, Whitley said. And he was brilliant child. Ive never actually met a 3-year-old that was that smart. He was three and he was writing his own name.

Their mom, also known as Cindy Kang, was a dentist in McKinney.

Dr. Kang was the sweetest, most beautiful soul with the kindest heart, her office, Thrive Dental and Orthodontics, said in an Instagram post. She was an outstanding dentist, mother, wife, daughter, friend, and faithful woman of God.

Kyu Cho was a managing partner at the law firm Porter Legal Group, the AP reported. He was loved and respected, the firm said.

Funeral services for Kyu, Cindy and James will be held Thursday evening at New Song Church in Carrollton. The family will be laid to rest Friday in Coppell.

Christian LaCour

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard from Farmersville, died as he worked at the mall, his sister Brianna Smith told ABC. Texas DPS said LeCour was able to evacuate one person from the mall, then was shot and killed when he went back in to try to get more people out.

He was a really sweet kid. Im sad that hes gone, Brianna Smith told ABC in a phone interview.

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard from Farmersville, was killed in the Saturday, May 6 shooting while working at the Allen Premium Outlets mall, according to his family.

Words cannot even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels, one relative of LaCour wrote on Facebook. There will forever be a void.

LaCours grandmother also wrote a tribute on Facebook, saying that Christian was a beautiful soul, 20 years old with goals for his future. I was so proud of him and so glad I got to see him 2 weeks ago.

A public celebration of life service for LaCour will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen.

Aishwarya Thatikonda

Aishwarya Thatikonda, an engineer who lived in McKinney, was among the victims who died, according to DPS.

Thatikonda, 26, was at the mall shopping for a dress for her upcoming birthday with a friend who was injured in the shooting.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 26-year-old engineer who lived in McKinney, was among the victims killed in the Allen mall shooting.

On Tuesday morning, Thatikondas body was sent on a plane to her family in Hyderabad, India, WFAA reported.

The whole country and our community is all grieving, Ashok Kolla with the Telugu Association of North America told WFAA. Thatikonda was part of the Telugu community and members were at DFW Airport to send her body to India to be buried.

Thatikonda worked at the Dallas-area firm Perfect General Contractors.

She came to the United States with a dream to make a career, build a family, own a home and live forever in Dallas, company founder Srinivas Chaluvadi told the AP in an email.

Elio Cumana-Rivas

Elio Cumana Rivas, 32, lived in Dallas.

Telemundo spoke to Cumana-Rivas father, who teaches at a university in Venezuela. The father said his son was out with friends at the mall when they split up to go their separate ways after they finished shopping.

Elio Cumana Rivas, 32, was one of the victims killed in the Allen outlets mall shooting.

His brother Gregory Smith Cumana told WFAA in Spanish that Elio always smiled, he always lived with a positive word.

My special little brother, the best thing that God could give us, was the fifth of six siblings, he said. Only 32 years old, he went in search of the American dream to help his family.

How to help

On GoFundMe, the Allen, TX Shooting Victims Fund was created by VictimsFirst to guarantee the families of victims and those wounded will receive 100% of the funds raised. VictimsFirst will work with local victim advocates to distribute these funds.

Communities Foundation of Texas has established the Support for Allen Fund to collect funds that provide support for those who have been impacted by this senseless tragedy. Gifts to CFTs Support for Allen Fund will be directed to local nonprofit agencies that are providing much-needed resources and services, according to a release. This includes agencies providing mental health, grief, and trauma support for the victims and their families, as well as first responders who may also have been impacted. This fund will not provide direct payments to individuals.

This is a developing story. For the latest updates, sign up for breaking news alerts.
Several buildings across different parts of Kyiv have been damaged, and four civilians sustained injuries in an overnight Russian drone attack.

Source: Serhii Popko, Head of the Kyiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram; Vitalii Klitschko, Kyiv Mayor, on Telegram

Quote from Popko: "According to the available information, there are several casualties and several buildings sustained structural damage [in Kyiv].

A car parked inside a residential buildings courtyard caught fire, likely after [drone] fragments fell on it.

Fragments also hit a residential building and a road. As of now, one person is known to have been injured. Information is being confirmed."

Details: Klitschko said three people have been injured at the site of the explosion in Kyivs Solomianskyi district and one in the Sviatoshynskyi district.

"Two injured civilians were hospitalised in the Sviatoshynskyi district," the Kyiv Mayor later reported.

Update at 02:42: Klitschko said fragments of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) hit a two-storey building in Kyivs Sviatoshynskyi district. Emergency response services were deployed to the site of the incident.

The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that fragments of a downed drone hit the runway at the Zhuliany airport in Solomianskyi district. There was no fire.

"All emergency response services have been deployed to the sites. Information about damage to buildings and casualties across the citys districts is being confirmed," Popko added.

Update at 03:20: The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that fragments of a downed drone hit a two-storey building in Kyivs Shevchenkivskyi district, damaging a gas pipe. A fire that broke out as a result of the incident has been extinguished. Information about casualties is being confirmed.

In the Solomianskyi district, drone fragments likely damaged a 10-tonne fuel tank, causing a leak. There was no fire. State Emergency Service workers were deployed to the site of the incident, the Kyiv City Military Administration said.

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Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona at the State of the Union on February 7, 2023. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

Arizona has been a hotbed for GOP election denialism since Trump contested the 2020 results.

When asked about it, Sinema criticized both parties for trying to "create their own narratives."

In 2024, Sinema would likely need support from conservative voters who doubt the 2020 election.

Asked why so many in Arizona did not believe in the legitimacy of the state's elections, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema blamed a broad "climate" of untruth driven by "members of both political parties."

In an interview on Friday in Sedona, CBS News' Margaret Brennan asked the Democrat-turned-Independent about the phenomenon of "election denialism" in the state  revealing the careful manner in which Sinema is navigating the issue as she potentially launches a re-election bid.

"Well, we're currently living in a climate where it's okay to say things that aren't true," Sinema said. "Which is crazy, right?"

Arizona has been a hotbed for election denial since former President Donald Trump and his political allies disputed President Joe Biden's 2020 victory in the state  later seeking to overturn the results entirely. Kari Lake, a former television broadcaster, ran for governor explicitly on an election denialist message, only narrowly losing to current Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs.

On Friday, Sinema initially argued that media consumption is a key contributor to election denial and mistrust in elections  before arguing that both Democrats are Republicans are "twisting stories to create their own narratives."

"What I think we're facing in our country today is this situation where people don't know what's true and what's not true," said Sinema. "People aren't sure what's fact and what's fiction. And part of that, frankly, is because much of the media that we consume isn't actual news. It's opinion."

"So when people are confusing opinion or media with news or journalism, then the lines get very blurry," she added. "Unfortunately, what's happening in our public discourse is members of both political parties are twisting stories to create their own narratives, which may or may not be true, and we see it every day."

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Brennan then pressed Sinema on the issue, alluding to candidates like Lake and 2022 GOP Senate nominee Blake Masters, who also argued that the 2020 election had been stolen: "We're not just talking about media silos, you're talking about people who are running for public office," the CBS News host noted.

Sinema again blamed "the two political parties" for becoming "more extreme."

"One of the unfortunate things that's happening in Arizona, and we see this in other parts of the country as well, is that the two political parties have gotten more and more extreme. They've moved away from that center of working together and finding that common ground," she replied, later adding: "That's how you get folks running for political office who are outside of the mainstream."

Reached for comment, Sinema spokesman Pablo Sierra-Carmona said that the Arizona senator was "largely discussing how as a society all our institutions  including journalism" are "not doing a good job promoting honesty and truth."

He also noted that Sinema was the last senator to finish speaking before the January 6, 2021 assault on the Capitol disrupted the Senate's proceedings. During that speech, Sinema defended the integrity of Arizona's electoral system.

"The 2020 Arizona election was a success: not for any one party or individual, but as a demonstration of the will of the voters," she said in the speech, arguing that rejecting the state's 11 Electoral College votes would rob "more than 3 million Arizonans of a free, fair election."

Sinema was also among a group of senators who wrote a bill reforming the Electoral Count Act, aimed at strengthening the country's electoral system and preventing another January 6.

But since then, Sinema has said little in public about the issue. Though she backed Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly's re-election against Masters, she largely stayed out of the gubernatorial race, endorsing Hobbs against Lake in a low-key statement provided to the Huffington Post.

As Sinema potentially seeks re-election in 2024, how she talks about election denial will likely draw further scrutiny.

Lake says she's "seriously considering" a Senate campaign, and Sheriff Mark Lamb, already running in the GOP primary, has also cast doubt on the validity of the 2020 election.

But with Sinema facing a challenge from her left from Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego, any victory in 2024 would depend in part on winning over Republicans and GOP-leaning independents  some of whom may believe the 2020 election was fraudulent.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Robert Egan was a prosecutor in Cook County and in the Illinois attorney generals office who worked on cases ranging from the grisly to the bizarre, among them the prosecution of serial killer John Wayne Gacy.

Egan also oversaw the prosecution of a bus driver for a rock group who dumped about 800 pounds of sewage through a Chicago River bridge grate onto passengers aboard a tour boat below.

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The thing that stands out to me is his professionalism, his warm manner, his commitment to his work and the balance he had about it all, said former Cook County States Attorney Richard Devine, who worked alongside Egan.

People sometimes portray prosecutors as being just hard-charging, go-get-em-type people, and Bob was certainly professional about his work, but he was very well-balanced with a very solid personality and a good judgment about just about everything I ever dealt with him on, Devine said.

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Robert Egan in an undated photo. (Tracy Egan)

Egan, 74, died of complications from pneumonia April 6 at NorthShore University HealthSystem Evanston Hospital, said his wife, Tracy. An Evanston resident, Egan had been diagnosed with larynx cancer on March 17, she said.

Born in Chicago, Egan grew up on the Southwest Side and graduated from Brother Rice High School in 1966. He received both his bachelors and law degrees from the University of Notre Dame.

Egans first job out of law school was as a Cook County assistant states attorney, and his roles included serving as a trial supervisor for criminal court and as a deputy supervisor in the felony review unit.

Egan was thrust into the spotlight in December 1978 when Gacy was taken into custody after bodies and skeletons were discovered in his house in Norwood Park Township after police had placed him under surveillance. Egan oversaw the removal of bodies from Gacys home, and he went on to help prosecute Gacy for the murders of 33 young men and boys.

Cook County State's Attorney Bernard Carey talks about the indictment of John Wayne Gacy for the murders of seven young men on Jan. 8, 1979, at the Daley Center. Behind him are, from left, Assistant State's Attorneys Lawrence Finder, Robert Egan, Terry Sullivan and Chief Deputy State's Attorney William Kunkle Jr. (Mario Petitti/Chicago Tribune)

He was the trial partner everybody wanted, said Terry Sullivan, who worked with Egan on the Gacy trial. Even in the high pressure of trial preparation for a major case, Bob was always a prince. He was as steady as they go.

Gacy was convicted in March 1980 and executed in 1994.

In 1981, Cook County States Attorney Richard M. Daley tapped Egan to reorganize the states attorney offices felony review unit. A year later, Egan went into private practice, then a year later joined the Illinois attorney generals office.

Egan returned to the Cook County states attorneys office in 1991. He led the prosecution of retired insurance executive J. Nat Davis of Kenilworth, who a jury found guilty of murdering his ex-wife, Diane, after the couple had divorced and he was ordered to pay her $1.5 million. In that case, Egan faced off in a Skokie courtroom against his former boss, former Cook County States Attorney William Kunkle Jr., who was defending Davis and who had led the Gacy prosecution while states attorney.

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After another stint in private practice, Egan returned to the states attorneys office in 1997 as deputy chief in the offices public interest bureau, overseeing crimes related to consumer fraud, crimes against seniors and child support enforcement.

One of the more unusual cases Egan prosecuted followed the 2005 arrest of the driver of the Dave Matthews Bands tour bus on misdemeanor charges of reckless conduct and conduct of discharge of contaminants.

The bus had driven over the grated Kinzie Street bridge and dumped 800 pounds of excrement into the Chicago River and on top of more than 100 passengers aboard an architectural tour boat that was passing under the bridge. The driver ultimately pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 months of probation.

Egan, who negotiated the plea agreement, told the Tribune that he was satisfied with the plea deal.

I have been in touch with many of the people who were on the boat, and none of them suffered any lasting health effects, he said, while adding that many had thrown out the clothing they were wearing that day.

Egan also prosecuted the killer of Ryan Harris, an 11-year-old girl who vanished from the Englewood neighborhood in 1998 and was found slain the next day. The case made national headlines and caused an uproar in the Black community because two boys, ages 7 and 8, were first charged with murder. Ultimately, a 37-year-old man was convicted of raping and murdering Harris and sentenced to life in prison.

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In 2007, Egan also prosecuted the four men charged with involuntary manslaughter in the 2003 stampede at the E2 nightclub in which 21 people died. A judge ultimately acquitted three men of criminal charges, and prosecutors later dismissed the same charges against the last defendant after an appellate courts decision upheld a judges ruling not to allow what they called key evidence.

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Egan left the states attorneys office in 2008 and later worked at the Cook County sheriffs office as a compliance officer, enforcing mandates forbidding political considerations in hiring and other employment-related decisions. He retired from that job in May 2019.

Egan taught classes at several institutions, including as an adjunct professor at IIT Kent Law School starting in 1982. In 2000, Egan began teaching criminal law and criminology classes at Oakton Community College. He unsuccessfully ran for judge in Cook County in 2002.

Egan enjoyed cooking, scuba diving, reading histories and mysteries, and photography.

A brief first marriage ended in divorce. In addition to his wife, Egan is survived by two daughters, Fiona and Lucy.

Services were held.

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Goldsborough is a freelance reporter.

To purchase a death notice, visit https://placeanad.chicagotribune.com/death-notices/. To suggest a staff-written obituary on a person of local interest, e-mail chicagoland@chicagotribune.com
Photo: Win McNamee (Getty Images)

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) faces an increasingly difficult (likely impossible) reelection bid next yearcomplicated, of course, by her own terribleness. After exiting the Democratic Party earlier this year to become an Independent, Sinema insisted in a Friday interview with CBS that shes not actually just becoming a Republican. But she also doubled on her attacks on the Democratic Party.

One of the unfortunate things thats happening in Arizona, and we see this in other parts of the country as well, is that the two political parties have gotten more and more extreme. Theyve moved away from that center of working together and finding that common ground, Sinema said. She added that both political parties are twisting stories to create their own narratives, which may or may not be true, and we see it every day.

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Sinema, meanwhile, has been schmoozing with Republican lobbyists for money, bragging about skipping Democratic caucus lunches, and writing off her Democratic colleagues as old dudes eating Jell-O.

I cant emphasize enough that criticizing Democratic Party leadership is good and importantbut claiming the two parties are equally extreme is just bizarre in the wake of the Jan. 6 insurrection and as election denialism continues to fester, particularly in Sinemas state of Arizona. On the one side, we have Republicans denying the outcome of an election, attempting to erase millions of votes disproportionately from voters of color, advocating for the jailing of abortion providers, and effectively calling for trans people and drag queens to be criminalized. On the other side, the extremism Sinema seems to be referring to on the left is growing support for universal health care, a living wage, and ending the filibuster so we can have a fighting chance at passing legislation to enshrine reproductive rights on the federal level.

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Kyrsten Sinema stands on the side of the people that want to ban abortion completely.



We can change things by electing a new U.S. Senator from Arizona.https://t.co/GdEmbCONiG  Ruben Gallego (@RubenGallego) May 6, 2023

Sinemas Democratic rival for her seat, Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), pointed out her own extremism in a tweet on Saturday: Sinema stands on the side of the people that want to ban abortion completely, he wrote, linking to an article on her hard-line stance against filibuster reform, which makes it difficult for Democrats in Congress to do much of anything.

Last year, Sinema lost the support shed long had from EMILYs List, an organization that supports, trains, and fundraises for pro-abortion Democratic women candidates. In a statement at the time, shortly after Sinema effectively tanked a crucial voting rights bill, EMILYs List President Laphonza Butler characterized Sinemas stance as not only a blow to voting rights and our electoral system but also to the work of ... her constituents who tried to communicate the importance of this bill. She continued, As a result, as we noted earlier this week, we will no longer be able to endorse Sen. Sinema moving forward.

To Gallegos point, in sabotaging the voting rights bill last year, Sinema also aided the anti-abortion movement: Abortion ban are enabled by voter suppression, a major factor in why these widely unpopular laws keep passing, despite their broad unpopularity. These laws only pass because gerrymandering, voting restrictions, and other tactics systematically suppress the votes of marginalized people in these states, and politicians like Sinema are a big reason why nothing ever changes.

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Pew Research Center surveyed thousands of Asian adults in the United States to explore their views on several topics, such as identity and how connected they are with other Asian ethnicities.

The study, titled Diverse Cultures and Shared Experiences Shape Asian American Identities, is part of the Washington, DC-based think tanks multiyear, comprehensive, in-depth quantitative and qualitative research effort focused on Asians in the U.S.

The study, for which responses were collected from July 5, 2022, to Jan. 27, 2023, surveyed 7,006 Asian adults in the country. Participants were U.S. adults who self-identify as Asian, either alone or in combination with other races or Hispanic ethnicity.

The majority of the respondents were from the five largest Asian American origin groups: Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Vietnamese and Indian. Pew Research Center also found a large enough population of Asian adults who identified as Japanese to report under their own category. According to a Pew Research Center analysis of the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS), those six groups make up about 81% of all U.S. Asian adults.

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Also represented in the report are those who identified with less populous Asian origin groups, notably those of Burmese, Hmong or Pakistani descent, to name a few. According to ACS data, about 7% of the U.S. population are Asian Americans with roots originating from more than 20 countries in East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

Besides English, the study was also conducted in Simplified and traditional Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Vietnamese and Tagalog.

The survey found that nearly all Asian adult respondents in the study (90%) said Asians living in the U.S. have different cultures, a result that 80% of the broader public of U.S. adults agreed with. About 1 in 5, 18%, responded that Asian Americans share a common culture.

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In terms of how they identify themselves, a bit over half of the Asian adult respondents (52%) said they use their heritage or family roots, such as Filipino or Filipino American, Korean or Korean American and Chinese or Chinese American.

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Of these respondents, 26% said they use ethnicity alone, while 25% said they combine their ethnicity with "American" when describing themselves.

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Similarly, about 51% of the Asian adult respondents described themselves as American, with 10% only using "American" alone, and 16% preferred the pan-ethnic label "Asian American." The 25% who combine their ethnicity with "American" matches the same statistic included with those who describe themselves by their ethnic origin.

Additionally, the survey found that 6% of Asian adults in the U.S. use regional terms to identify themselves, such as South Asian or Southeast Asian, and 12% preferred to use just Asian.

Though Asian Americans identities reflect their diverse cultures and origins, Asian adults also report certain shared experiences, the study noted.

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A majority (60%) say most people would describe them as Asian while walking past them on the street, indicating most Asian adults feel they are seen by others as a single group, despite the populations diversity.

The survey also studied how Asian immigrants identify themselves in the U.S. by comparing those who had recently arrived and those who had been in the country for over 20 years.

Of those who had been in the U.S. for 10 years or less, 65% said they describe themselves by ethnicity, with 54% reporting to only use their ethnicity and 12% using a combination of their ethnicity and "American."

Of those who had been in the country for more than 20 years, 54% said they describe themselves by ethnicity, with 33% saying they describe themselves using their ethnicity and "American" and 21% only using their ethnicity.

Additionally, about 17% of those who arrived in the past 10 years admitted to hiding a part of their heritage, such as ethnic food, cultural practices, clothing or religious practices, from non-Asians out of fear of discrimination, being teased or embarrassment. About 14% of those with more than 20 years in the U.S. shared a similar answer.

Age-wise, the study stated that adults between the ages of 18 to 29 are more likely to hide a part of their heritage (39%) than those who are between 30 to 49 (21%), 50 to 64 (12%) and 65 and up (5%).

When it comes to their views on who they consider to be Asians from the different regions on the continent, the majority of Adult Asian respondents consider those of East Asian, Southeast Asian and South Asian descent to be Asians.

However, respondents were split on the topic of Central Asians, such as Afghans and Kazakhs, if they consider them to be Asians, of which 43% of Asian adults who answered said they are.

Indian respondents answered the highest in the survey at 56%, saying Central Asians are still considered Asian, while Vietnamese respondents were the lowest at 30%. followed by Koreans at 32%.

The study found that about six in 10 Asian adults feel connected to other Asians in the country.

The study noted that about six in 10 Asian adults (59%) said that their lives are affected by things that happen to other Asians in the country. Additionally, about two-thirds (68%) of Asian Americans said it is extremely or very important to have a national leader advocating for the concerns and needs of the Asian population in the U.S.

When it comes to making or having friends in the country, 51% of all Asian adults said most or all of their friends are of the same ethnicity or are also Asian; however, the results vary between each ethnicity. For instance, about 55% of Vietnamese and Indian respondents answered the same but only about 34% of Japanese respondents agreed.

When asked about how informed they are of Asian history in the U.S., about one in four Asian adults (24%) answered "extremely" or "very" while 50% said they only "somewhat" know.

As for how they learned Asian history in the U.S., 82% said they got their information from the internet and 75% said the media. Learning Asian history from college or university or during elementary through high school yielded low results at 37% and 33%, respectively.

Politics-wise, the majority of Asian registered voters are still leaning towards the Democratic Party at 62% as opposed to those who prefer to vote Republican at 34%.

A survey conducted by The New York Times in March stated that more Asians began leaning toward conservative candidates during the 2020 and 2022 elections.

According to the Pew Research Center study, the majority of Republican voters can be found among the Vietnamese diaspora and those categorized under "Other" at 52% and 69%, respectively. Most Filipinos and Indians (both 68%) leaned toward the Democratic Party, followed by Koreans (67%) and Chinese (56%) respondents.

Asian adult respondents and U.S. adults both agreed on their views on what it means to be American, the survey learned.

About 94% of Asian adults and 91% of U.S. adults agreed that accepting people of diverse racial and religious backgrounds is what makes one an American. About 92% and 94% also added believing in individual freedoms, and 89% and 87% said respecting U.S. political institutions and laws are important for being truly American.
Rehearsal before the May 9 parade in Moscow

It reads that Rahmon will go to Moscow on an official trip at Putin's invitation and will take part "in the celebrations dedicated to the 78th anniversary of Victory Day."

Read also: Russia cancels military parades out fear it would highlight the scope of Russian losses  not safety, UK intel

Earlier, the press secretary of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Ruslan Zheldibay announced on his Facebook page that the Kazakh leader would attend the parade in Moscow.

Zheldibay wrote that in addition to the parade in Moscow, Tokayev would visit the Rzhev Memorial in Russias Tver Oblast to honor the memory of Kazakh soldiers of the 100th and 101st infantry divisions, and the mass grave in the village of Trubino, where his uncle Kassym Boltaev is buried.

Read also: May 1 parade in Moscow cancelled due to "terror attacks" threat

The Russian side invited the heads of the CIS member states to this event," the statement said.

The website of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also posted a short message saying that Pashinyan would attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow at Putin's invitation.

On April 24, the Russian newspaper Vedomosti reported that the only foreign leader expected to attend the May 9 Victory Day celebrations in Moscow was Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov.

After that, the Kremlin tried to justify international isolation on May 9 by saying that "no one was invited."

Read also: Putin cancels Victory Day parades as Ukraine invasion continues to unravel  opinion

Most regions of Russia decided against holding a military parade on May 9 so as not to "provoke" Ukrainians.

According to UK intelligence, one of the reasons for the cancellation of the May 9 parades in Russia is the heavy losses of the Russian army.

In 2022, not a single foreign leader came to Moscow to celebrate Victory Day. The Kremlin also claimed that no one was invited at the time.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Dr. Amanuel Gebru, left, vice president of student support at Moorpark College, talks with students Ebba Tefera and Jasmine Nichols, right, on the Moorpark College campus. Gebru is also president of a statewide organization (A2MEND) focused on Black men at California community colleges. (Al Seib / For The Times)

For a while, Moorpark College had few problems enrolling male students.

In 2015, men made up more than 48% of students at the community college in Ventura County. But then they started disappearing, until they comprised just 43% of the student body by fall 2020.

Most worrying was the number who failed to return for a second year of college, especially Latino and Black men. While about 80% of white men continued their education beyond their first year, just 50% of Black men and 71% of Latinos returned in 2020.

To help keep Black and Latino men enrolled, the college has introduced a slew of initiatives, including equity lounges, summer trips to Africa and seminars for professors on how to best teach men. The school has asked every department to gather data on its male students and has developed counseling and mentoring programs for Black and Latino men.

The men [here] dont come from a position of privilege, said Amanuel Gebru, vice president of student support at Moorpark. They need more help.

Students walk to and from classes at Moorpark College. (Al Seib / For The Times)

Women now make up about 58% of U.S. college undergraduates, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, and each year far more women are enrolling in higher education than men . The trend is especially acute for Black men, with about 138,000 fewer Black men enrolled in college last year than in 2017.

Although college enrollment is down by 1.11 million overall since 2019, according to the Clearinghouse, the situation with male students has become so worrying that some colleges have started to treat men as a group that needs additional support, and to seek ways to both attract male students and keep them enrolled from one year to the next.

Like Moorpark, many schools have begun to focus on attracting specific groups of men.

Californias 116-campus community college system has boosted support of its African American Male Education Network and Development program, or A2MEND, to attract and retain Black men. The effort is meant to improve the climate for Black male students by providing one-on-one mentoring and meeting spaces to create a sense of community. It has given out $700,000 in scholarships to Black men, according to Gebru, who also is the president of the A2MEND board.

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Dr. Amanuel Gebru, vice president of student support at Moorpark College. (Al Seib / For The Times)

Were making efforts, but we havent done enough, Gebru said. Theres a lot of initiatives and conversations about creating safer spaces in the classroom for Black male students, but there isnt policy to say we have to hire more Black faculty and staff at these colleges.

Just 7% of U.S. faculty members are Black , according to the National Center for Education Statistics, and Moorpark College said just 2% of its faculty is Black. The U.S. population is 13.6% Black .

Other colleges throughout the country, too, have turned to recruiting men.

In Chicago, Malcolm X College has an enrollment thats three-quarters female. At a recent recruitment event for area high school students, it appeared one challenge is marketing college as an option at all.

The thing is, given its high price and questions about its value, college might be a scam, said Donje Gates, an 18-year-old senior at Bogan Computer Technical High School on Chicagos South Side. Hes considering going to a trade school instead.

College leaders at Malcolm X started a mentoring program that pairs an instructor or other employee with two Black male students, leading to increased retention. While 43% of Black male students dropped out between the fall of 2021 and the spring of 2022, 93% of the few dozen men in the mentoring program stayed, President David Sanders said.

Along with financial and academic obstacles for many, breaking through often conflicting messages to men and boys about their education is another challenge.

Rigid conceptions of masculinity, that include anti-school sentiments, harm their well-being, and contribute to adverse outcomes in education, a task force of the American Psychological Assn. notes on its website.

The task force is working to change such messages so teachers and others better understand male students and their educational needs earlier, especially if they are boys of color.

"Teachers may consciously or implicitly expect lower academic performance from Black and Latino boys regardless of their prior academic achievement, it said. This can result in a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Ioakim Boutakidis, a task force member and a California State University Fullerton professor of child and adolescent studies, said he believes more educators would be inclined to help boys and men if it werent for mistaken assumptions about male privilege. Even his own colleagues have expressed skepticism about the need for more focus on male students, he said.

Moorpark College was established in 1967 and is one of many colleges nationwide taking steps to attract and retain African American male college students. (Al Seib / For The Times)

I go where the data tells me to go, said Boutakidis, the father of two adolescent boys. If I care about equity gaps, then Ill put my efforts where the equity gaps are biggest. Im not trying to bring an ideology to this.

Boutakidis suggested that the easiest way to start to close those equity gaps is to focus first on men of color, who are less likely to attend college than white men.

New Jerseys Montclair State University last year launched the Male Enrollment and Graduation Alliance to increase the number of male Black and Latino students . Forty percent of the students at Montclair State are male, 36% are Latino and 13% are Black.

Boys and men in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods tend to focus more on other things than college, said Vaughn Smith Jr., a 23-year-old Montclair State senior. Smith, who is Black, said he decided in high school that he wanted more from life and chose a college path. Although most of his male high school classmates did go to college, he said, many of them have since dropped out.

Similar trends can be seen in Appalachia, said Rick Childers, an alumnus of Berea College in rural Kentucky who mentors male students from the region. Berea College has 18% fewer male students now than it did in 2019. He said the students he meets still face outdated ideas about masculinity.

Youre encouraged to go better yourself, but my dad would always call me college boy,  Childers said. It was confusing, because I thought it was what I was supposed to be doing. But then theres this resentment.

This story was produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
NEW PHILADELPHIA  Lawrence Township Trustee Matthew S. Ritterbeck is accused of committing sexual assault in a Pittsburgh suburb more than a year ago.

Bolivar police arrested Ritterbeck, 46, on May 3 on a warrant from the Peters Township Police Department in Washington County, Pennsylvania.

In addition to the charge of sexual assault, a second-degree felony, Ritterbeck is charged with aggravated indecent assault without consent, also a second-degree felony, and indecent assault of an unconscious person, a first-degree misdemeanor.

The victim, a 39-year-old female, was assaulted in her home late Dec. 11, 2021 or early Dec. 12, 2021, according to Peters Township detective Edward Walker.

Peters Township police are seeking to have Ritterbeck brought back to Pennsylvania. An extradition hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Wednesday before Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Judge Michael J. Ernest.

Ritterbeck is awaiting the outcome of the hearing in the Tuscarawas County Jail.

No attorney is listed for Ritterbeck, who has been a township trustee since 2008. A message seeking his response to the charges was left on his phone Monday.

Pennsylvania court records show the charge was filed May 3. No court appearance is scheduled.

Peters Township, a community of about 23,000 people, is located south of Pittsburgh.

Reach Nancy at 330-364-8402 or nancy.molnar@timesreporter.com.

On Twitter: @nmolnarTR

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Matthew S. Ritterbeck awaiting extradition on Pennsylvania charges
WASHINGTON (AP)  A union of government employees on Monday sued Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and President Joe Biden to try to stop them from complying with the law that limits the government's total debt, which the lawsuit contends is unconstitutional.

The lawsuit comes just weeks before the government could default on the federal debt if Congress fails to raise the borrowing limit. Financial markets have become increasingly nervous about the potential for default, with economists warning that a failure to raise the debt limit could trigger a global financial crisis.

On Tuesday, Biden will meet with the top Republicans and Democrats in Congress to seek a potential breakthrough. The two sides remain far apart. Republicans have demanded steep spending cuts as the price of agreeing to raise the debt limit. Biden has argued that the debt ceiling, which applies to borrowing the government has already done, shouldn't be used as leverage in budget talks.

The lawsuit, filed by the National Association of Government Employees, says that if Yellen abides by the debt limit once it becomes binding, possibly next month, she would have to choose which federal obligations to actually pay. Some analysts have argued that the government could prioritize interest payments on Treasury securities. That would ensure that the United States wouldn't default on its securities, which have long been regarded as the safest investments in the world and are vital to global financial transactions.

But under the Constitution, the lawsuit argues, the president and Treasury secretary have no authority to decide which payments to make because the Constitution grants spending power to Congress. Doing so, it contends, would violate the Constitutions separation of powers.

Nothing in the Constitution or any judicial decision interpreting the Constitution," the lawsuit states, allows Congress to leave unchecked discretion to the President to exercise the spending power vested in the legislative branch by canceling, suspending, or refusing to carry out spending already approved by Congress.

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White House and Treasury Department spokespeople declined to comment on the lawsuit Monday.

The NAGE represents about 75,000 government employees who it says are at risk of being laid off or losing pay and benefits should Congress fail to raise the debt ceiling. The debt limit, currently $31.4 trillion, was reached in January. But Yellen has since used various accounting measures to avoid breaching it.

Last week, Yellen warned that the debt limit would become binding as early as June 1, much earlier than many analyses had previously predicted, because tax receipts have come in lower than projected.

Laurence Tribe, a law professor at Harvard University, suggested that it is possible that the Treasury Department would welcome the suit because it expresses the view that the ceiling is not a permissible bargaining tool for Congress to employ because it simply threatens to destroy the economy and hold the president hostage.

Tribe has written a column in the New York Times expressing support for the idea that the debt ceiling is unconstitutional. White House aides have explored the notion of having the president invoke the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which says the validity of the public debt shall not be questioned.

How fast the lawsuit may advance through the legal system depends, in part, on the judge, Tribe noted. It could move extremely quickly," he said. "Its quite hard to predict.

Richard Stearns, a federal judge who was nominated by President Bill Clinton, has been assigned to the case.

Norm Eisen, a senior fellow in governance studies at the Brookings Institution, suggested that it may be up to the Supreme Court to determine whether there is a constitutional option to resolve this hostage crisis.

If Congress is going to demonstrate this propensity for hostage taking, Eisen said, then a reallocation of authority in this dimension away from Congress may be called for.

On Sunday, Yellen said there were no good options for the United States to avoid an economic calamity if the debt ceiling isn't raised. Economists say the standoff has distorted financial markets. Since Yellen warned a week ago that the government could default on its debt as early as June 1, interest rates on one-month Treasury bills have been shooting higher. They reached 5.35% Monday, up from 4.12% a week earlier  an unusually sharp move.

That suggested that investors were shunning the one-month bills out of concern that they could suffer from a default. The one-month yield, in an unusual move, now exceeds the rates on all longer-dated Treasuries, including 10-year notes, which yield 3.49%. Typically, borrowers demand higher rates to lock up their money for longer periods. Rates on the 10-year have fallen because investors expect a recession later this year that would force the Federal Reserve to cut its benchmark rate.

Markets are beginning to aggressively price in a potential default, said Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at tax advisory firm RSM. The timing of an economic and financial crisis caused by the political authority could not be any worse.

In the wake of three large bank failures in the past two months, Brusuelas, like many economists, thinks many banks are pulling back on lending to bolster their finances, a trend that could weaken the economy.

A partial or full default would exacerbate those trends and result in a pullback in spending and investment by households and firms, as well as an increase in unemployment, Brusuelas said. It would almost surely tip the economy into a full-blown recession.
AFP

Warplanes roared overhead as explosions rocked Khartoum on Friday, just hours after Sudan's warring parties agreed to respect humanitarian principles in their spiralling conflict, without a truce in sight.Nearly one month after the outbreak of the fighting that has killed more than 750 people and displaced hundreds of thousands, the two sides signed the agreement late Thursday at talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah.But already by the next morning the situation on the ground appeared unchanged, with the forces of two rival generals again exchanging fire in the capital, which is home to five million people.A witness in Khartoum's south reported "fighter jets overhead and the sound of clashes and explosions", while another in the north reported "air strikes and the sound of anti-aircraft missiles".In west Darfur, which has seen some of the bloodiest fighting, people took cover from heavy gunfire and artillery blasts, witnesses said.Envoys for the two generals -- army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo -- had agreed in Jeddah to "affirm our commitment to ensure that civilians are protected".The agreement commits both sides to let in badly needed humanitarian assistance and also calls for the restoration of electricity, water and other basic services.- Caution over talks -The United States and Saudi Arabia, which led the diplomatic drive, said talks were ongoing with a proposal on the table for a 10-day truce, which could lead to negotiations on a longer-term end to fighting.But US diplomats were frank about the obstacles in the nearly week-long Jeddah talks."This is not a ceasefire. This is an affirmation of their obligations under international humanitarian law," said a US official involved in the negotiations, adding the two sides were "quite far apart".Almost 200,000 people have fled Sudan in addition to hundreds of thousands who have been displaced inside the northeast African country, the UN said Friday.At least 18 humanitarian workers have been killed since the conflict flared on April 15, with many NGOs and UN agencies suspending their work.The World Food Programme said millions of dollars' worth of food was looted in Khartoum alone.- 'Cut off' -Beyond Khartoum, the long-troubled Darfur region has seen some of the worst unrest.The region has been ravaged by conflict since 2003, when former dictator Omar al-Bashir armed nomadic Arab raiders -- including the Janjaweed, from which Daglo's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces stemmed -- to counter an ethnic minority rebellion.The war left hundreds of thousands dead and more than two million displaced.Darfur remains awash in weapons, and has seen hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands displaced during the current hostilities.In April alone, more than 200 people were killed in clashes between an Arab community and the non-Arab Massalit minority in the Krink area of West Darfur.In El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur state, witnesses said civilians were trying to flee heavy gun and artillery fire on Friday."The clashes are now concentrated in the city's east, between Arab and African groups," one of them told AFP.The UN said Darfur civilians were again being armed in the latest unrest, which "have triggered intercommunal violence", with accounts of hundreds of deaths, rampant looting and arson attacks.According to Mohamed Osman, researcher at Human Rights Watch, the people of Darfur have been "cut off", with "shops and the local market destroyed, and the main hospital not working"."There is no access to anything," he told AFP, adding that "this fighting is happening after years of Darfur -- West Darfur in particular -- being neglected."- Ulterior motives? -The conflict erupted after a power struggle between Burhan and Daglo, most recently over the integration of the latter's RSF into the army under a planned transition to civilian rule.The Forces of Freedom and Change, the pro-democracy force sidelined in a 2021 putsch, saluted the Jeddah declaration as "a first step in the right direction".The UN-led support mission for Sudan, which also includes the African Union and regional IGAD bloc, called on the warring factions to allow humanitarian access.Egypt said the declaration should "pave the way" for "a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire".After previous truces evaporated, the United States said the two sides also agreed in Jeddah for the first time on ways to monitor any ceasefire.A second US official said the negotiations were "very tough" and acknowledged both sides may have ulterior motives."Candidly, there is some hope on both sides that the other side would be seen as being the perpetrator of violations," he said."We've seen violations by both sides in all the ceasefires to date and don't expect that to change."burs-bha/dv
Writers Guild of America members and their supporters picket outside Paramount Studios in Hollywood on Tuesday. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

To the editor: Theres a fairly straightforward way for the Writers Guild of America to end the strike quickly and favorably for its members: Organize a national boycott of any one streaming service. ("Why Hollywood writers strike wont end soon. Here are six sticking points," May 3)

Under the current conditions, streamers like Amazon Prime, Disney+ or Paramount+ can hold out as long as they need because their parent companies have other vast revenue streams and very deep pockets. Producers and companies have been strategizing and preparing to withstand a strike for months.

But what happens if people stop watching? We know that boycotts work. AT&T Inc. dropped the far-right One America News Network when people dropped their AT&T cable and phone plans.

What happens if the WGA targets one streamer for a nationwide boycott? How fast would Netflix or another streamer break ranks and run back to the bargaining table if they suddenly lost, say, 30% of their U.S. subscriptions?

My guess is that the studios would offer better pay, working conditions and residuals within a week.

Jeanne Damus, Los Angeles

..

To the editor: There is nothing wrong with labor unions wanting a fair wage and good benefits for their members.

But with the change to streaming and many other options for television watchers now, how can writers expect pay increases and improved benefits when the amount of money available is not what it used to be?

I thought the same thing when retail clerks went on strike: Traditional grocery stores now compete with large, big-box stores like Costco and Walmart.

The WGA does not have as big of a pie to slice up as in the good old days.

Matthew D. Kerster, Gardena

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Two teen protesters hold signs outside a prayer vigil after the mass shooting on Saturday in Allen, Texas. (LM Otero / Associated Press)

To the editor: Another average day in the United States. We are a gun-happy, violent society with too many leaders who choose to do nothing to reduce the carnage caused by guns.

Matt Giorgi, Brea

..

To the editor: As a fan of Ward Sutton's spot-on political cartoons, I marveled at the rare prescience of his latest, "Gun violence-response apps for Republicans," that appeared in The Times this weekend.

The cartoon's first frame shared words prefacing Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's trademark response to news of each successive shooting tragedy in his state: "Our hearts go out..." Needless to say, Abbott said nothing to propose sensible gun control measures.

On Saturday the Allen, Texas, mall massacre transpired. Which left Abbott to resort to his de rigueur "our hearts" dodge  with no mention of taking steps to control the ever-worsening gun violence epidemic.







P. Jane Weil, Sacramento

..

To the editor: Thank you, Texas. Thank you, red states and your governors. Thank you, Republican representatives in Washington. Without your asinine logic and heartless decisions, the populace would not understand that you couldn't care less whether we live or die. Thank you, SCOTUS, for interpreting a centuries-old document that references weapons of another age and applying your special-interest-influenced rulings that result in a senseless body count.

Without all of you leaders we would still think that we live in the greatest country in the world. Instead, we know without a doubt that we live in one of the most evil, backward-thinking nations on Earth. This dubious distinction is well earned because you have the power to end this carnage but instead you refuse. Thanks for nothing.

Rod Lawrence, Los Angeles

..

To the editor: In America are we so jaded, callous and "blind" that we continue to accept the slaughter of innocent people. Every day we hear of another shooting  at a mall, a clinic, a school. It has become commonplace, the norm.

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Gov. Greg Abbott dismissed gun control as a quick solution that won't solve the problem. He feels that addressing mental health is the long-term solution. But not everyone who uses a gun to kill has a mental illness. Some kill for revenge or hate.

I am sick of hearing that "guns don't kill, people do." Other countries that have banned AK-15s and other assault weapons have seen deaths drop drastically. Isn't it time for the U.S. to enact legislation against these murderous weapons?

Deborah R. Ishida, Beverly Hills

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
[Source]

Sony Masterworks Broadway has released the digital version of the original Broadway cast recording album for KPOP."

Jointly composed by Helen Park and Max Vernon, the album is packed with 19 songs from the Broadway production. Although most of the songs list Original Broadway Cast of KPOP in the credits, some credit individual cast members such as f(x) member Luna.

KPOP, which had its Broadway run from November to December 2022, centers around fictional K-pop stars preparing for their U.S. debut.

Cast members include some K-pop idols like former Miss A member Min, former SPICA member BoHyung and former U-KISS member Kevin Woo.



Rounding out the cast are Abraham Lim, Aubie Merrylees, Amy Keum, Eddy Lee, James Kho, Jinwoo Jung, Jiho Kang, John Yi, Joshua Lee, Jully Lee, Julia Abueva, Kate Mina Lin, Lina Rose Lee, Major Curda, Marina Kondo, Patrick Park, Timothy H. Lee and Zachary Noah Piser.



More from NextShark: Chinese rock star Zheng Jun accused of child abuse after posting about sons 1,000-kowtow punishment

Despite its short stint on Broadway, with only 44 previews and 17 regular performances, the musical garnered Park a historic Tony Award nomination for best original score, marking the first time an Asian woman has been nominated in the category.

It also received nominations for best choreography and best costume design of a musical.

The show was not without its controversies, however.

More from NextShark: 'Pokemon Horizons: The Series' trailer sees two new trainers in place of Ash Ketchum

In addition to its abrupt cancellation, which sparked backlash about the theater industry at large, cast members called out New York Times chief theater critic Jesse Green for describing the shows lighting as squint-inducing in a review of the show.

By using language in such a way as one of the many white, male gatekeepers of the Broadway world, Jesse Green cast a show of mostly Asian bodies as the other, Abraham Lim, who made his Broadway debut in the role of Jae Ik, previously told NextShark.

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Reading such ignorance and seeing his language weaponized against even things like my mother tongue as a reason to deter people from seeing our show made me want to hold him accountable and protect us," he added.

More from NextShark: BLACKPINKs Lisa has broken Taylor Swifts 24-hour YouTube record with 73.6 million views

The 76th annual Tony Awards will be held at the United Palace in New York City on June 11.

The physical version of the "KPOP - Original Broadway Cast Recording" album will be released on May 12. Listen to it below:

More from NextShark: K-pop boy group TEMPEST Cant Stop Shining in sophomore mini-album
Outgoing Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, second from right, poses for photos with supporters after giving a farewell address at the BUILD headquarters in Chicago on May 8, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Monday delivered a farewell address that sought to define her embattled, one-term reign as a defiant stand against the political establishment  an impassioned final message from the leader of the nations third-largest city following a divisive term and stunning reelection loss.

Speaking inside the offices of a West Side anti-violence organization, the outgoing mayor made no apologies for her brusque style governing Chicago through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic and civil unrest. Rather, she signaled her abrasiveness was the only path forward for a mayor elected as an insurgent candidate back in 2019.

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The mandate that I was given four years ago was to break up the status quo that failed our residents for far too long and to chart a new path, a new compact between the government and the governed, and thats what we did, Lightfoot said.

Despite overseeing the city during a time in which the sheer number of challenges mounted on top of each other brought me to my knees, Lightfoot said she hoped to be remembered as a leader who made long-overdue strides toward equity in a deeply segregated city.

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I knew generations of Chicagoans, particularly Black and Latino communities, who were hungry for resources and support from City Hall, a City Hall that needed to see the entire city, Lightfoot said at the BUILD headquarters in Austin. My primary mandate was to put our residents first and then do the hard work to serve them. And so we got to it.  Our administration created real change and planted seeds for transformation of our city to right these historic wrongs.

Outgoing Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot gives a farewell address at the BUILD headquarters in Chicago on May 8, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

In February, Lightfoot became the first incumbent mayor in 40 years to lose a reelection bid, getting knocked out of the race during the first round of voting against eight challengers. Her historic loss was attributed to a variety of factors, ranging from the headwinds she faced during a period of economic turbulence and heightened crime to the often-stubborn attitude she deployed when it came to working with other figures and groups across the political spectrum.

But on Monday, with just one week left in office, the mayor dismissed criticism of her leadership and portrayed her fierce attitude as evidence of her resiliency during the COVID-19 crisis.

Lots of time and energy and ink has been spilled by the pundits and the media obsessing about what four letter-word the mean, cant get along with anyone mayor allegedly said, Lightfoot said, before her voice grew emotional. Let me tell you, my friends, the four-letter word that propelled me forward every single day of this incredible journey, one that I am told every time that I needed to rise above the noise and despair. That four-letter word was spelled H-O-P-E.

The mayor would again rip into the press when highlighting the optimistic vision she had for Chicago, urging them to tell that story instead of negative ones.

Lightfoot did not address any specific areas critics knocked her for, such as her administrations pace of police reform, that she failed to chip away at the practice of aldermanic prerogative or her contentious relationships with other leaders ranging from Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker to the powerful Chicago Teachers Union.

She instead sought to evoke unity by telling the biblical story of Lazarus, who rose from the dead, and said her struggle to resurrect a city battered by COVID-19 was shared by all Chicagoans  and that it ultimately prevailed.

When a great fire lays our city to ashes and rubble, we build a sturdier, stronger city, Lightfoot said, evoking the 1871 Great Chicago Fire that destroyed large sections of the city. When the brutal winters chill us to the bone, we put on another layer and we forge ahead, dreaming of spring and summer but never stopping, even in the face of natures tempest.

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Outgoing Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, center right, mingles and takes pictures with supporters after giving a farewell address at the BUILD headquarters in Chicago on May 8, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

The two-hour goodbye ceremony kicked off with a highlight video that drew on the themes of Lightfoots 2019 election representing an anti-establishment, reform-oriented answer to the citys notorious Democratic machine. She also highlighted how her working-class background inspired her to lead with the mindset of alleviating the most vulnerable families hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic, including through raising the minimum wage to $15.

In her remarks, Lightfoot touted new affordable housing programs and her flagship Invest South/West initiative, which supports businesses that hope to flourish in struggling neighborhoods. She also highlighted strides made in fiscal management, including upping pension contributions and balancing the budget during times of steep revenue shortfalls.

On crime and policing, where the outgoing mayor has often come under fire from both progressives and law-and-order types, Lightfoot defended her strategy of holistically addressing safety by tapping into more resources on reentry services, but did not say much more on the spike in violence that plagued her term.

You cant talk about public safety without creating a pathway for those who are coming home to have fulfilled, legitimate lives in our society, Lightfoot said. We cant continue to perpetuate the permanent punishment cycle.

Since failing to make the runoff election, Lightfoot has notably maintained a low profile, restricting her access with local media and declining to weigh in throughout the runoff campaign on the choice between Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson  now the mayor-elect  and former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas.

With just days left in her term, however, Lightfoot has shared some more explicit thoughts on the two candidates who bested her in February. She insinuated in an exit interview with MSNBCs Morning Joe that right-wing forces who wanted to oust her lined up behind Vallas, the more conservative choice, and in turn ended up with a mayor who is even further to the left in Johnson.

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Unfortunately, the people who are jumping on the bandwagon of a Republican posing like a Democrat now got a Democratic socialist as the mayor, Lightfoot said in the segment that aired this week. So, careful what you wish for.

Johnson does not officially identify as a Democratic socialist, although he is closely allied with aldermen and other local politicians who are members of the Chicago chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America.

Lightfoot has not shared details on the next chapter of her career, beyond stating she was finished with electoral politics.

I will be here as private citizen Lightfoot, continually rooting for you and every resident of our city, Lightfoot said. My work is not done. I will roll up my sleeves in another form and fashion, but continue on.

Chicago Tribunes Hank Sanders contributed.
Dana Soehn was a major voice of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for years and now will be a strong advocate for the park as the new CEO/president of Friends of the Smokies.

Shes gone from park spokeswoman and executive team member to overseer of projects that the nonprofit Friends of the Smokies sponsors to raise money and support the park.

You might say she transitioned to the new job as part of a spiritual journey she took in March to the Holy Land. An earlier mission trip to Zimbabwe in December helped clear the way, too, when she realized an opportunity was there to continue to love and care for the park but in a different way.

Soehn, who began her new job April 3, was interviewed April 23 at the Friends office in the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center in Kodak. The day I visited there was a whirlwind of activity on the Friends side of the building. On the first floor, staff had auction items being organized for the Friends next fundraiser, the Greenbrier barn party on May 12, which is sold out. On the second floor, volunteers were counting money from collection boxes throughout the park.

Dana and Heath Soehn, center, renew their baptisms in the Jordan River by the Rev. Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, and Anne Williams, pastor at the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas.

Soehn mentioned there was some concern that collections might fall off when the park started charging visitors to park in March but that hasnt been the case, she said.

Soehn began working for the national park soon after graduating from the University of Tennessee in 1992. Her major was wildlife and fisheries science with a minor in forestry. In 1995, she got a master's degree from West Virginia University in the same field. She said her masters thesis assessed the size of forest disturbance and associated impacts to salamander populations.

As Dana Williams, formerly of Aurora, Missouri, she married Heath Soehn on Oct. 26, 1991, at the old Wonderland Hotel in the Elkmont area of the park. Today, hes a retired park ranger. The couple has two sons, Grant, 25, and Garrett, 23.

In her jobs at the park, she worked on building community relationships, creating private-public partnership opportunities, developing strategic communications and coordinating large events. She represented the park with congressional delegations, community leaders, descendant groups and partners in Tennessee and North Carolina, including Friends.

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Soehn has had responsibilities extending beyond the Smokies. Her experience has included serving as acting chief of public affairs and chief spokesperson for the National Park Service.

In 2020, when then President Donald Trump visited Mount Rushmore in South Dakota for an Independence Day celebration, she was on assignment to help deal with the press. At the time, there were questions about the visit in light of COVID-19.

She said in an interview then that she volunteered to be the lead public information officer and worked with two other NPS employees to provide over 40 media interviews and responses. CNNs reporting was particularly critical, saying some staff wore masks and others did not and there was no social distancing as attendees were clustered together in stadium seating. Soehn wore a mask at the event.

She was in a job transition at the Smokies when contacted by a member of the national executive search firm, Potrero Group, about applying for the top position at Friends. At the park, she was leaving the position as spokesperson and was charged by Superintendent Cassius Cash with leading a strategic operations plan. At age 54, she also was thinking about retiring sometime between the ages of 58 and 60.

I had a full plate of things I was working on, she said.

Dana Soehn discusses her new job as CEO/president of Friends of the Smokies on April 24 in her office in the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center in Kodak. She formerly was with the Great Smoky mountains National Park.

She had attended the Friends board meeting in November as part of her assignment with the park when contacted by the Potrero Group. A Friends board member had recommended to the group that Soehn be approached about applying. Soehn said she was never approached about applying by any board member, and, in fact, the way the process worked, she wasnt in touch with any board members until she became one of six finalists. About 130 people applied.

She did have an ethics problem that had to be addressed, since she was the parks liaison to the Friends board. It had to be worked out with the National Park Service in Washington, D.C., she said.

I completely recused myself with Friends, she said.

Meanwhile, in December before she was thoroughly vetted by Potrero, she and her husband went on a mission trip to Zimbabwe sponsored by First Baptist Church of Gatlinburg.

I had two weeks to reflect on how best to serve the park and the community, she said. She thought about how busy it had been at the park with record-breaking number of visitors and dealing with COVID. I came to see it as a pretty eye-opening opportunity, she said.

After becoming one of six finalists, she then became one of three finalists who had in-person interviews with board members.

In a way, its not surprising she was chosen.

I have a unique perspective on the challenges of the park, she said, listing the experiences of learning about the diversity of the place in numerous forms, from the plants and critters to the people who lived in the area before the park was established in 1934. Shes helped teach others to understand the park and the stewardship required and been part of the superintendents team in getting to know leaders around the park.

The only way to meet challenges is to work with partnerships, she said.

Soehn is spending the first three months listening to others, she said. She said there is a lot to learn about the behind the scenes part of the organization. Shes found shes leading a nine-woman full-time staff plus two other women who are part-time and two men who are part-time.

This is the 30th anniversary of Friends and she plans to meet with two other executives who proceeded her. They are Charles Maynard, Jim Hart and Tim Chandler. Jim Hart has committed to help me, she said.

Soehns office used to belong to Hart, a former executive who returned to the organization temporarily when Chandler left the top executive position in September. She and Hart talk regularly, she said. Until he comes and picks up a standing desk left behind, Soehn said she intends to use it.

During the interview, Soehn also talked about her recent trip to the Holy Land, which she called a once in a lifetime experience. The trip was arranged by the pastor of a United Methodist Church in Kansas where her sister, Debi Williams Nixon, works.

This is what Soehn wrote on Facebook about the trip: It was a breathtaking experience and we were overwhelmed by the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and feel of the landscape and stone paths where Jesus walked. We were mindful of the painful division of people now living in these historic lands and hope one day to see peace. So grateful for this chance to grow our faith and understanding.

She heard from Christians, Jews and Muslims. She said talks helped them better understand each of the religious groups and the shared interests in that experience. She said they made relevant todays conflicts in the region.

They visited Bethlehem, the biblical place of Jesus birth in the East Bank of Palestine, to the area outside Jerusalem, in Israel, where it is believed Jesus was crucified. The tour included visits to holy sites that include national parks, she said.

I was so grateful that many holy sites were protected as part of the Israeli National Park system. As a part of parks, landscapes surrounding sites were also protected which provided an opportunity to better visualize the historic setting, she said.

In looking ahead in her new job, Soehn has an optimistic spirit about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that she is known for.

I am deeply committed to the park. I care deeply about protecting the park in all its diversity. I may work until Im 100. I feel clearly about what I do, she said.

Knoxville businesswoman Sharon Pryse, who chairs the Friends board, is happy that Soehn became interested in the job and applied.

Were excited to have her. Shes definitely passionate about the Smokies. She understands Friends of the Smokies and understands Friends contribution to the Smokies, Pryse said.

Georgiana Vines is retired News Sentinel associate editor. She may be reached at gvpolitics@hotmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Great Smoky Mountains National Park spokeswoman heads to Friends of Smokies
Several upcoming decisions across York County could affect plans to bring hundreds more homes and apartments to the area.

Heres a look at where several projects are, and where they stand:

 The Fort Mill Town Council has a vote May 8 that could decide the fate of hundreds of residences in the Williams Road area.

The town approved a plan in 2019 for up to 240 new homes and townhomes, up to 200 senior or possibly memory care units and new commercial construction. The 115-acre property runs along much of Williams, Legion and Haire roads in the Dobys Bridge Road corridor.

Crossroads Development Partners had eight months to take title of the properties. The town passed an extension last year to double that time. Early this year, the town again extended the deadline.

Now, the developer wants another extension through the end of November.

On Monday, the council could vote to extend the annexation, rezoning and development agreement to allow the Crossroads project. If not, the developer will have until July 5 to take the title or have prior approvals voided.

Heres where a new grocery store and hundreds of Fort Mill homes and townhomes may go

 Homes by Christopher applied for plat review in York County to allow a 34-home subdivision on almost 46 acres in Lake Wylie. Concord Cove would be on Concord Road, about a mile from U.S. 324. Its also near the entrance to Catawba Nuclear Station.

The site includes some land on a cove of Lake Wylie, but theres a Duke Energy easement there. The new project would include two new roads. The county planning commission will hear the request May 8.

 The Rock Hill planning commission voted in favor of a rezoning this month to allow 15 new residences between Hargett Park and The Vintage Apartments. The 1105 Hearns St. address at more than 2 acres sit behind existing homes on Deas Street. The city council will make a final zoning decision.

City planner Dennis Fields said the properties would look like townhomes. The site would have a 40-foot buffer along each edge, except the one facing Hearns Street. The property will be entirely fenced.

Story continues

 Eastwood Homes asked the planning commission in Rock Hill for road name changes for the Waterford Commons subdivision. The commission approved a plan in 2017 for 165 homes off Sturgis Road, with connection from Waterford Glen. The plan was changed to remove a road. A newly submitted plan showing the roads still to be built is largely similar in home count and layout.

 True Homes out of Monroe, North Carolina, applied to rezone more than 10 acres of property in Rock Hill at 2098 Dutchman Drive to build 40 townhomes. The Rock Hill School District-owned property is beside Westminster Catawba Christian School, at the former Rosewood Elementary School. Three new public streets would access the site.

The project needs rezoning, which city planning staff doesnt support. The city planning commission deferred a decision earlier this month, until June.
The trial of doomsday cult mom Lori Vallow continues for another week at the 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 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.

Fridays testimony included a detailed look at text messages between Ms Vallow and Mr Daybell that spanned their affair, referred to their spouses and children as obstacles, and grew increasingly romantic following her husbands death as she ignored his sons pleas for more information.

On Monday even more texts were shown in court as well as the last videos of the two children seen alive which were found on Ms Vallows iCloud account.

Meanwhile, the court is eyeing June 2024 as a possible start date for Mr Daybells trial.

Key points

Chad Daybell claimed Lori Vallow didnt have children as police began search for them

07:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad Daybell claimed his new wife Lori Vallow didnt have any children as authorities launched a massive search for her son and daughter that ended with the discovery of their bodies nine months later.

Story continues

Rachel Sharp reports.

Chad Daybell claimed Lori Vallow didnt have children as nine-month search launched

Chad Daybell says wife Tammy is clearly dead in disturbing 911 call

05:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad Daybell made a chilling 911 call saying that his wife Tammy was clearly dead after he had allegedly conspired with Lori Vallow to murder her so they could run off to Hawaii to get married.

Read more:

Chad Daybell says wife Tammy is clearly dead in 911 call heard at Lori Vallow trial

Who is the doomsday cult mom on trial for her childrens murders?

03:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallow is a mother of three, a former game show contestant, a Mrs Texas Beauty Pageant contestant and a cult follower.

But is she also a killer?

Lori Vallow: Who is the cult mom on trial for her childrens murders?

Who are the key players in the Lori Vallow trial?

01:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Here are the key players in the sprawling case:

Who are the key players in Lori Vallows trial?

Lori Vallow trial hears devastating call with her sister

Tuesday 9 May 2023 00:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The trial of doomsday cult mom Lori Vallow has been played a devastating jailhouse call in which her sister accused her of throwing her murdered children away like garbage.

Vallow trial hears devastating call with sister after discovery of childrens bodies

Did Lori Vallow accidentally make a key confession about childrens deaths?

Monday 8 May 2023 23:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallows high-profile trial took an unexpected turn this week when jurors heard a dramatic jailhouse phone call in which the doomsday cult mom appeared to make a key confession about her childrens murders.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Did Lori Vallow make a key confession about childrens deaths in a jail call?

Court adjourns for the day

Monday 8 May 2023 22:25 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart is dismissed from the witness stand.

Court adjourns for the day.

The trial resumes at 8.30am MT tomorrow.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:24 , Oliver O'Connell

Redirect begins with Smith asking questions again.

She asks if Lori ever manipulated Chad or others. Agent Hart says yes.

Smith asks of all the other women Chad communicated with, did their children end up dead or buried in Chad Daybells backyard?

Hart says no.

Smith says nothing further.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:22 , Oliver O'Connell

Thomas asks Agent Hart about Chad Daybell manipulating people. Hart says he did manipulate people including Lori.

Thomas has no further questions.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:18 , Oliver O'Connell

The defence probes further into Chads predictions and ratings and establishes that Melani called him Dad or Father.

Def - From father my sweet daughter you have done well I am very pleased. You indicate that Father you thought was Chad? Witness - yes.

Def- is it possible Melaniece got a revelation of her own?

Witness says Melaniece frequently referred to Chad as "Dad" or "Father" #LoriVallow  Pretty Lies & Alibis (@PrettyLiesAlibi) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 22:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Turning to the numbers and ratings system seen in the texts, Thomas asks what happens when a persons number reaches zero and is told that they die.

Isnt it your understanding that you dont really have an understanding about what was going on here with the percentages and light/dark scale?

Agent Hart responds: I dont agree.

He adds that Tylee and JJ and Tammy and Charles all ended up dead and had bad numbers on the scale.

Thomas says couldnt this be more like Dungeons and Dragons and playing with dice.

Agent Hart replies: Absent the people killed, yes.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:11 , Oliver O'Connell

Thomas asks Agent Hart if he ever saw any reference to Ira and Ralph on the iCloud.

Hart says Ira was another entity that was in Charles Vallows body. Ralph is the name of another entity but Hart doesnt remember who he was attached to.

He is asked if hes ever watched the movie Romancing the Stone and says the names could have come from the movie.

Thomas asks him if he did any research on the names. Agent Hart says no.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:09 , Oliver O'Connell

Thomas asks if it's possible Lori was busy doing other things and Alex couldn't remember the 5kids4ever so he went with 2manykids. Smith objects and says the question calls for speculation. Boyce sustains it.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 22:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart says there were normal mom-type texts on Loris accounts for things like going to doctor appointments, grocery shopping, paying bills, etc.

As a whole, isnt it true Lori was, for all intents and purposes, a pretty good mother? asks Thomas.

With the exception of what happened to her children, yes, Agent Hart replies.

Lori led a normal life until she met Chad says Thomas. Agent Hart agrees.

Monday 8 May 2023 22:02 , Oliver O'Connell

Hart says, "A small number." Thomas lists off Melanie Gibb, Melani Boudreaux, Zulema Pastenes. Thomas says, "There was a number of women in the group. Chad was the leader of the group." Hart responds, "Along with Lori, correct."  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 22:01 , Oliver O'Connell

Thomas asks about videos on Loris iCloud and notes that there are hundreds but the only ones played were two short video of the last time the children were ever seen.

He says videos of Lori singing, playing on the beach, and interacting normally were not shown today.

Agent Hart says that is correct.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Defence attorney John Thomas begins cross-examination by asking about what kind of investigation was done to establish that Chad Daybell was not authorised to give patriarchal blessings. It came up in interviews and the investigation.

Thomas says when you said Chad wasn't authorized you didn't research that? Witness says not true - I knew from the investigation Chad was a ward clerk not a patriarch. #LoriVallow@LawCrimeNetwork  Pretty Lies & Alibis (@PrettyLiesAlibi) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 21:57 , Oliver O'Connell

Asked if from November 2019 to June 2020 the FBI and other law enforcement agencies ever stopped looking for the children, Agent Hart says no.

Asked if he ever saw any evidence of JJ being alive after 22 September 2019, he says no. Asked if he every saw any evidence of Tylee being alive after 8 September, he says no.

Asked if he ever saw any evidence that Lori was looking for her children, he says no.\

Direct examination is over.

Court resumes

Monday 8 May 2023 21:55 , Oliver O'Connell

Court resumes after the afternoon break and Judge Boyce returns to the bench. The jury is brought back in.

Agent Hart is asked about the messages he found about JJ, Tylee and Tammy being dark and if he ever saw an objection to them being dark from Lori.

He says no.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:21 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart said there was divorce was never mentioned by Lori to Charles.

In February 2019 she told Chad that Charles was going to divorce her.

In late June 2019 Charles told her he would divorce her.

At no point to Lori search for a divorce lawyer.

There is an objection from the defence team that testimony about divorce has nothing to do with the case.

The state argues that it shows motive and intent to commit the crimes with which she is charged.

Judge Boyce overrules the objection.

Could takes its afternoon break.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:17 , Oliver O'Connell

Smith asks about deleted items on the iCloud  specifically about Kay Woodcock.

Agent Hart doesnt know about deleted items but says: There were messages from Kay Woodcock to Lori Vallow about wanting to Facetime JJ and bring JJ to his fathers memorial service.

He says there was a stark contrast before and after 8 September and 23 September  there was no evidence of either of the children in messages, photos etc.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:14 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori's words of planning the future and wanting to be together is significant because SHE generated it. There were deleted texts off the phone but still in the iCloud ... #lorivallow@LawCrimeNetwork  Pretty Lies & Alibis (@PrettyLiesAlibi) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 21:13 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart says Alex was part of the group and Lori told Chad they would use Alex to get to them.

In the blessing, Chad says: You have already assisted us in ways that cant be repaid but you will continue to do so as you move forward.

In another part, he says: Through adulthood, you have refined yourself. The Lord says well done. Your soul is cleansed. All is well ... You will be a powerful servant. I bless you with the knowledge that you will now move forward with physical action and spiritual power that will be bestowed upon you."

Alex died two weeks later.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Among the many emails and videos and texts he found, Agent Hart found a patriarchal blessing from Chad to Alex. He was not authorised by the church to give such blessings. In it, Chad encourages Alex to be Loris protector.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:03 , Oliver O'Connell

On 16 November, Lori texted Melani:

Will you do this job if your whole family turns against you?? That is what the Lord has asked of us! Our glories will be worth it and they will all shrink on our presence. It will be a sad day for those who chose to oppose us when we work for the Lord and are His valiant warriors. Be strong my little one!! We will be gone in a few.

Monday 8 May 2023 21:02 , Oliver O'Connell

On 23 October, Lori texts that she had a bad dream about her brother Alex and asks Chad to protect him.

Lori: He would be the one they use to get to us both. All this alone time is not good for him.

Chad: I will try to reach out to him later today.

Later Chad says: I just cleared all of Als weapons, curses and cords, and filled him with malachite healing balm. I also put angels around him.

Agent Hart explains that there was evidence on the iCloud account that Alex believed his mission was to help Lori.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori: Need you to hold me tight! That would be great. What about the idea of you coming here Thursday or Friday. Or do u want me to come home?

Chad: Their apartment is haunted and we cant clear the place. So they are looking to move anyway, and I have the perfect place for them. I need to be here to get sorting the financial stuff.

Chad asks Lori to look for a condo for them in Hawaii.

Chad: I want to get going full steam on the Lili workout plan. Tighten the abs, get a full-body tan, grow my hair out. This could be really good for both of us.

Lori: I love that plan.

Tammy has been dead 24 hours at this point.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:57 , Oliver O'Connell

The night Tammy died, Chad texts Lori.

Not fun without you. Can u call me?

Lori: How are you doing is the question?

Chad: Im hanging in there. My parents are staying here and we are still getting visitors, but I will call you soon.

The next morning - Chad to Lori, "Missing you so much. I can feel you in bed with me, though. Can't wait to hold you tightly every day and night." Lori to Chad, "I'm missing you more!! I need you desperately! I can't wait!"  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 20:54 , Oliver O'Connell

On 19 October, the day Tammy died, Lori receives a text from an unknown individual at 10.33am.

Lori was in Hawaii with Melani.

The message reads: I'm not sure if you hear but Chad's wife died last night.

Lori responds: Oh my gosh. I did not hear that. I'm in Hawaii and it's 6am.

Lori then texts: Do you know what happened?

The unknown sender responds: Yes, she awoke in the night coughing, threw up, collapsed and passed away.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:53 , Oliver O'Connell

Texts between Audrey and Lori are also shown and she asks how it went with her and Chad working on Tammy.

Lori tells her they did a lot of work and got her out but new one got in  another demonic spirit.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:44 , Oliver O'Connell

Texts between Lori and Melani, her niece, show them planning a trip to Missouri over the days in which Tammy was shot at.

Melani signs off with OK, Captain and Agent Hart compares this to her control of Alex.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:40 , Oliver O'Connell

On 3 October Chad texts Lori: Good night angel Lili. So excited to go on our date.

Lori texts Alex the next day: We are supposed to go on a real date tonight but we are discussing it. Perhaps an evening at home would be better so we are not out and about. Ill let you know. But u could come and sing with us after your shower.

Chad texts Lori on 5 October: Hello, sweet angel. Big news about Tammy. Please let me know if you are awake and can talk.

He then texts that Tammy has been switched and is in limbo with a level three demonic entity named Viola now in her body and that it happened around 10pmn and was done by her sister Sam who he says he always knew was a 3D.

Sam is much like Brandon. She has been my biggest enemy over the years. She refuses to read my books and threw the biggest fit when we moved to Idaho. She has only visited us when the kids got married and always fled Idaho within hours like she was being burned. Shes definitely comparable to Brandon and Summer.

He later adds: Not fully sure of the timing for removal, but once her actions verify the differences, I dont want to wait.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:32 , Oliver O'Connell

The next slide shows the photo of JJ on the couch wearing his red pyjamas. It was taken on 22 September 2019 at 10.46am and is a still from a 3-4 second video.

No other videos or photos were found on the iCloud account after this, and it is the picture of JJ alive.

On 24 September, the day after JJ was murdered, Lori tells Sidney that he has gone to stay with his grandparents and wont be back until late October.

Agent Hart says there is no evidence that JJ went to his grandparents.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:28 , Oliver O'Connell

The next round of text messages retrieved from Loris iCloud account are with Sidney Woodbury who testified earlier in the trial. She was hired by Lori to provide daycare for JJ. These date from 13 September 2019  five days after Tylee was last seen.

There were many references in earlier text messages to Tylee looking after JJ and now Lori needed to find a replacement as having moved to Rexburg, she no longer had the support she had from friends and neighbours in Arizona and Tylee was dead.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:16 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Boyce will allow the James and Elena romance fantasy written by Chad and sent to Lori in texts to be admitted as an exhibit but will not allow it to be read into the record in its entirety.

There are some slides after the story in the presentation that Judge Boyce says he will not allow for several reasons. He says one slide has multiple photos and titles that are argumentative and another slide has highlighting on it and case law does not allow for emphasis on some parts versus others.

He will also for the timeline to be admitted if highlighting and editorial references are removed.

The prosecution team asks if some of the slides from the presentation can be admitted separately and he says he will consider it when the time comes.

The jury is brought in and Agent Hart returns to the witness stand.

Monday 8 May 2023 20:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Boyce says he has multiple issues with the Powerpoint presentation that Mr Edwards has prepared.

It appears to be a closing argument Powerpoint. There is editorialisation in the Powerpoint.

There are simply too many issues from the way that PowerPoint was put together, he adds calling it prepackaged testimony and not a summary of the investigation.

He will not allow the exhibit to be admitted into evidence.

The witness can testify and can testify to any material facts he knows about but the Powerpoint itself is going to be disallowed based on what the court has reviewed.

Court resumes

Monday 8 May 2023 20:02 , Oliver O'Connell

Court resumes after lunch and Judge Boyce returns to the bench and will rule on the admissibility of the exhibits that the next witness intends to show to the jury.

Nick Edwards has prepared a summary of the investigation which the defence does not want shown.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:51 , Oliver O'Connell

Court breaks for lunch.

The case will continue at 12.45pm MT.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:50 , Oliver O'Connell

In the video section of Loris iCloud account, Agent Hart found many short clips of footage. The first one shown to the court was taken on 8 September at 2.49pm and shows JJ and Tylee hugging at Yellowstone National Park with Alex standing behind them.

The last photo  and known sighting  of Tylee Ryan (pictured with JJ and Alex Cox at Yellowstone National Park) (FBI)

Monday 8 May 2023 18:48 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart explains these message show Alex was a participant in the group, designating people as zombies, and understood the concepts. They point out Lori conveys this to Alex and uses the term good boy numerous times when texting with him.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:43 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex tells Lori: I am proud of you. No more Zs. [zombies]

Lori: We r trying to get to the bottom of what we need to do to eliminate them completely. Im sure you will be told also.

Alex: Excellent.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Tylee Ryan was last seen on 8 September 2019.

On 3 September, Alex texted Lori: Wifi is in. Whatcha doin?

She replies: Working on Zs. What did u decide on user name and password?

Alex says: Network name is anti-laman. Password is 2manykids.

Lori replies: Funny.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:39 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart says: Their relationship is the driving force behind the crimes that are alleged in this case.

He adds that the obstacles are their earthly relatives.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:38 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori tells Chad: U cant just keep tearing my heart out. I really cant take it any more. Im sorry.

She goes on to say how disappointed she is that she didnt get to chat with him on his birthday and she tells him to go be with his wife and family.

He replies: Oh honey. That is so crushing. I feel so destroyed inside. You know my love for you is deep and real.

Chad says being without her is unbearable.

We are surrounded by Telestial relatives that are obstacles. I am so sick of it.

Lori says she is as well and asks what he really wants.

Chad responds that he wants to be with her.

I would happily join you tomorrow if it felt heaven wouldnt strike us down.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:31 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad - No but the next 2 days will be torture. I'll be alone Wed and beyond.

Lori - Is that what he wants? Me sitting waiting for you endlessly and you wasting time? It doesn't feel right.

Lori - It feels so drawn out #lorivallow@LawCrimeNetwork  Pretty Lies & Alibis (@PrettyLiesAlibi) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 18:29 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad tells Lori he thinks JJ is barely attached to his body and assures her she is on the right track as the Lord told him.

Later on 10 August, she sends him a photo of herself in a yellow swimming suit on the beach. The text says, Surprises are waiting!!

The same day, she tells him: Thank you for being mine. Wish I could wake up and kiss your sweet tender lips for real. you are my everything.

Agent Hart explains there were a lot of references to Chad and Lori portaling to each other so they could be together spiritually.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:22 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori asks: Do you think there is a perfectly orchestrated plan to take the children? And we just have to wait for it to be carried out?

She adds: I feel lost like I should be doing something to help.

Chad responds: There is a plan being orchestrated for the children. I was shown last night but it has been taken from my mind of course.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Once they are speaking again, Lori texts Chad asking him to check his reading of JJ as he woke up saying crazy stuff and wont go back to sleep.

Chad: JJ is still JJ. I am told his spirit recognizes Blake is evil and is unsettled by him.

Later, Chad checks in on JJ and Lori responds that we was talking nonsense the previous night and asks if he is at zero yet.

Chad: Yes, hes at zero. He probably was partly through the veil, talking to people both light and dark.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:14 , Oliver O'Connell

But they say you have cut me off, and the protection I built around your house is gone. I love you and don't want you getting attacked. They said that if you at least give me a (thumbs up emoji), it will restore our protections," Chad wrote. Grandpa Keith was deceased.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 18:14 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad says he will abide by Lors request that they dont speak but he keeps texting her.

I hate causing you pain, because I love you more than ever.

Youre the best. I hope your day goes well. I adore you.

Absolutely excruciating to be cut off from you. I love you.

He then sends a text saying Lori has lost the protections he gave her and if she will at least respond with a thumbs up, he will work to restore the protections.

Loir: I love you.

He says he will get to work getting things restored.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:09 , Oliver O'Connell

On 7 August, Chad and Lori had a fight and she texted her niece Melani.

She replies: I love you. If you need to talk, call, I don't sleep. It was a hard day. Don't let the dumb things get to you. You know who you are. Praying for our hearts to be made full and for the lord to execute all things expeditiously.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:07 , Oliver O'Connell

There are many texts about Tylees behaviour.

Lori: She is asleep. She put a bunch of holes in the walls and doors. Definitely had demons helping her. Probably 1,000.

Mel wants us to come up there tomorrow but I said next Thursday to Sunday. What do you think?

We r both so tired of taking care of demons. We are weary. Please ask the Lord to take them.

Agent Hart points out the reference to the Lord taking her children.

Monday 8 May 2023 18:04 , Oliver O'Connell

The words telestial and terrestrial are used in texts and Agent Hart explains telestial meant in reference to this world and terrestrial was in reference to a higher plane or an elevated place.

Monday 8 May 2023 17:55 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart says Lori Vallow initiated the inquiry about JJ Vallows death percentage: She questioned why JJs percentage wasnt at zero.

Lori: 2 and 3 percent? Not zero?

Chad: I will explain when we talk.

Lori: Ok. Still feeling hot for you.

Chad: Yes, we might need to release a little steam next time we meet. Anyway, this is the chart that checks what percentage mortals are still in their body. It worked for my friends wife who died, my neighbor, George Bush, Stan Lee, etc. I kind of forgot about it because weve been dealing with zombies and demonic entities. But this afternoon Tammy said she felt lightheaded, as if her body and spirit werent connected.

Court resumes

Monday 8 May 2023 17:50 , Oliver O'Connell

The trial resumes after the mid-morning break.

Former FBI Agent Doug Hart remains on the stand and some more texts between Chad and Lori are shown from 30 July 2019.

Chad: I got the inspiration to go back to my original death percentages that helped us track Charles, Ned, etc. Tammy is very close. Her percentage has fallen steadily since Hiplos left. It is encouraging!

Lori: What s the percentage now? what about jjs too?

Chad: Tammy is at 3. JJ is at 2. Both ar being heavily shielded to stop intruders.

Monday 8 May 2023 17:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori forwarded Chad a message she received from Kay Woodcock about allowing JJ to attend his fathers memorial.

Chad says that she doesnt seem inclined to share the life insurance money.

this is believed to be the last contact between Kay and Lori.

Court breaks for the mid-morning recess.

Monday 8 May 2023 17:13 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori took a trip with Melani and two of her children along with JJ (it is not known if Tylee was there too).

Chad: One question: Do you want me to cause pain yet to those two 3s youre riding with?

Lori: Probably hold off on then till we arrive. This will be mistake to deal with. But Ill text you if they start acting up and we can zap them. Miserable not mistake.

Chad: Sounds great. Yes if they are going to act up, we'll at least give them a reason to scream. I love, cherish, treasure and adore you. The wonderful memories just keep coming back. you are mesmerizing. Raphael is one lucky guy.

Agent Hart tells the court that the reference to hurting children and making them scream is relevant as he never saw a message in which Lori spoke out against it.

Monday 8 May 2023 17:03 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad to Lori: thats a very nice message for Mel b to receive & I dont mind at all He speeds things up a bit  Hidden True Crime (@HiddenTrueCrime) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 17:01 , Oliver O'Connell

Later that day, Chad picks up the text conversation again.

Chad: Im home. Missing you immensely and feeling very tired, but I had a splendid time with you, my love! I will text again soon.

He then texts: Tonight I figured out who I feel like. I'm a grown-up version of Harry Potter, who has to live with the Dudleys in his little space under the stairs. Every few weeks I get to escape and have amazing adventures with my Goddess lover, but then I have to return to my place under the stairs, feeling trapped. But I sense permanent freedom is coming!

Monday 8 May 2023 16:58 , Oliver O'Connell

On 26 July, Lori sends Chad a text asking him to check JJ.

Lori: She said he was calm and he watched movies all day which he would never do.

Chad: It is still JJ. Im told she is lying about him being calm and watching movies.

Lori: Mel knew. She called me. She felt the real Brighton [Melani Boudreaxs child] last night and knew she was different. She was told I didnt want to tell her. She is taking it well and knows it is part of a big plan. She is amazing! Although I'm still pretty upset about it, I love you. Missing your kisses."

Monday 8 May 2023 16:54 , Oliver O'Connell

On 23 July they text again.

Lori: Good morning. Missing you. Didnt sleep much. Need you to check JJ. Weird stuff happened in the middle of the night. Its like they distracted us with Blake.

Later she texts: When you get home, Check Tylee. She is being super sweet and helpful and she cleaned her room. See if she got switched. Totally not her.

He tells her that Tylee has been switched and he will explain it later.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:51 , Oliver O'Connell

In more texts, Chad and Lori discuss the movie The Other Side of Heaven and she says he will like it because the scenery looks like Kauai in Hawaii.

Lori: Hopefully we will be there someday soon together!

Chad: That is the plan! And my greatest desire!

After the movie he texts: I look forward to being on a tropical island with you.

7/22/19 Chad: Hi darling. Back from the movie I look forward to being on a tropical island with you.   Hidden True Crime (@HiddenTrueCrime) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 16:48 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad says the plan isnt clear to him yet. This was significant to investigators because it showed there was a plan and they thought it was something they were going to move forward with together.

Agent Hart says investigators obtained records from the LDS Temple.

Those records showed Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow attended the Gilbert, Arizona Temple on November 16, 2018.

That is eight months prior to the death of Charles Vallow.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:41 , Oliver O'Connell

The beginning of the Loinfire romance story, which was spread out over multiple texts, is shown to the court. Chad is referred to as James and Lori is Elena.

In the first part, the two characters visit a temple before returning to a hotel room for additional romance on the couch.

They calmed their nerves enough to give each other a blessing. As James placed his hands on her head, he connected with Elenas true eternal self. He knew he was in the presence of an exalted goddess who had returned to earth to perform a special mission. This mission included being with him, and they would progress together as translated beings. The full plan wasnt yet completely clear to him, but the immense power radiating from her confirmed his belief that she was among the greater women in the universe.

They embraced following the blessings, and the emotions they felt were a mixture of eternal bliss and telestial desire. The sexual chemistry was undeniable, but the spiritual unity was a glorious bonus for them both. They had only known each other for three weeks...

Lori responds that she loves it.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:34 , Oliver O'Connell

On 21 July 2019 the two discussed Rhonda, the spirit inhabiting Kay Woodcock and getting her numbers as low as they can and him continuing to work on her after they found out Kay was the life insurance beneficiary.

Lori believes Kay will now try and take JJ from her.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:31 , Oliver O'Connell

On 20 July 2019, the pair exchanged messages about Melani Boudreauxs child Blake.

Lori: Whats Blakes percentage? He drew three crosses on the wall in his bedroom. We just finished painting over them. Like he was marking it for the dark side to find him.

Chad: Blake is at a 7. I took my sword of light and sliced his aura vertically in several places. You should be able to rip and burn it. I decreased his pain tolerance to 1% and greatly increased his pain. His desire to depart is at 80%

Monday 8 May 2023 16:29 , Oliver O'Connell

Agent Hart explains that the word storm is the name they have given to Chads penis.

Hart: "The word 'storm' is the name they had given to Chad's penis." Women behind me just gasped in the courtroom.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 16:28 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad: You are so adorable, beautiful, wonderful, heavenly, luscious and angelic. So many divine attributes rolled into one dynamic, desirable package. I want you even more desperately than you want me!

Just grab me by the storm and I will follow you to the ends of the universe.

Lori: When might that be?

Chad: Wednesday evening, and then repeatedly and gloriously until Friday.

Lori: And then what? Back to crying and saying goodbye. Back to the box.

Chad: This trip to Utah had a lot of finality to it. I was told extreme changes are coming to me and to Utah.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:25 , Oliver O'Connell

On 18 July 2019, Chad texted Lori.

Chad: "I have been instructed to focus my efforts on Hillary, so I will."

Lori: Ok. Find out her percentage for me and JJ.

Chad: She is at a 0.13. I turned up the pain to 10 and placed a spiritual virus in her. He is at 99.99. Raphael visited him and told him to follow Amy into the light. I also assured him that James would love and take care of his mommy, which he will with all of his heart and soul.

Lori: That is sweet! I missed you desperately.

Agent Hart explains that Hillary is the name of the spirit inhabiting Tylees body. The numbers are death percentages.

He says there are three total conversations regarding the death percentages for JJ, Tylee and Tammy Daybell.

Another occurs on 30 July and the third occurs on 10 August.

The closer an individual was to 100 or zero, the closer they were to their death.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:16 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori speaks with the insurance company and established that Charles changed the policy months before in March 2019 and made Kay Woodcock the beneficiary as she is JJs grandmother. She tells Chad that she will still get $4,000 a month from social security.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:13 , Oliver O'Connell

On 18 July Lori texts Chad that she has discovered she is not the beneficiary of Charless life insurance policy.

Lori: I just got the letter from the insurance company saying that I am not the beneficiary. Its a spear thru my heart. Who do you think he changed it to?? Brandon?? Or probably Kay?? He left nothin for JJ!

Chad: Wow. Thats terrible. There is no way to find out?

Lori: I might be able to see when I get his computer on Sunday. I could check the emails I sent to the insurance company. It will show change of beneficiary. He must have done it recently.

Chad seems to believe Lori would have had to agree to the change in beneficiary and suggests her signature was forged. He says there will be a paper trail and that this is another step in bringing down the Gadiantons especially Brandon.

Chad: It will be interesting if it got changed after he had two bullets in his chest.

Lori responds that it can't be changed after the death date. Chad tells Lori that he thinks Kay is the beneficiary and she was probably freaking out after Lori got those computers.

Agent Hart explains the Gadiantons: The Gadiantons were a secret society from the Book of Mormon  a group of evil people. When the phrase is used, it identifies someone as being evil. In this case, Brandon Boudreaux.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:08 , Oliver O'Connell

More texts between Chad and Lori from 15 July 2019  four days after Charles Vallow was killed  are shown to the jury.

Chad: I know you wont get this text for another hour or so, but my love for you is overflowing right now. I just want to hold you endlessly. You are my wonderful best friend that I cant live without!

Lori: And yet... you are. So sad. Missing you! Just landed! Gotta get to work!

The prosecution argues that these messages demonstrate the nature of the relationship between Chad and Lori and how it was the motivating force behind the crimes they are charged with.

Monday 8 May 2023 16:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Former FBI Special Agent Doug Hart is back on the stand and the jury is brought in.

Direct examination of him will continue as he takes the court through the contents of Loris iCloud accounts.

Monday 8 May 2023 15:55 , Oliver O'Connell

The exhibit also includes a timeline that Archibald opposes. He argues its cumulative and theres nothing original in it.

The state is cherry-picking on this evidence. They have gone to Nick Edwards about the defences position about holes in the investigation so this witness has crafted their exhibit to fill in what the defence has been stating over the course of this trial. That in and of itself tells the court what theyve been doing here. This is not a summary - this is a closing argument for the state to put in through a witness what they believe to be relevant for the jury.

Judge Boyce says he will make a ruling before the witness takes the stand.

Monday 8 May 2023 15:53 , Oliver O'Connell

Part of the exhibit includes the romance story that Chad wrote Lori (also known as the James and Elena story or Loinfire) and Judge Boyce asks what the relevance was of publishing the entire story.

Lindsey Blake, arguing for the state, says: When investigators found it, they went through it and determined things that were occurring in real life were reflected in the story.

She argues that the case deals with an affair and the story established that and was a mirror of what was happening in real life.

Monday 8 May 2023 15:50 , Oliver O'Connell

The prosecution team argues that the exhibit is not a summary of the entire trial but is a summary of the investigation conducted by the attorney generals office.

The information contained in the exhibit was identified in a March filing and so was available to the defence team.

Monday 8 May 2023 15:44 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Boyce shares some of the concerns of the defence team.

It seems to me witnesses are summarising their testimony and reading it off the slides. I don't see how that's any different than reading out of a report,  something that is not allowed in Idaho rules.

Boyce says the exhibits also appear as the "first bite of the apple" in closing arguments which witnesses should not be making - rather, the prosecution should.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Monday 8 May 2023 15:41 , Oliver O'Connell

The defence team objects because (similar to the last two witnesses) the witness will effectively be presenting a closing argument.

Attorney Jim Archibald says: For them to say this is a summary  a summary of the entire trial  thats for the state to put on during closing arguments not to call a witness to make their closing argument for them.

Monday 8 May 2023 15:39 , Oliver O'Connell

The defence does have a problem with the summary put together by Nicholas Edwards, the lead investigator at the Attorney General's Office.

"He picks and chooses from police reports and submits arguments that have not been admitted as evidence in this trial."  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) May 8, 2023

Court resumes

Monday 8 May 2023 15:38 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Steven Boyce is on the bench but before the jury is brought in an issue with exhibits is being discussed.

The witness after FBI Agent Douglas Hart has an exhibit based on information and evidence provided to defence attorneys through discovery and the prosecution team wants to know if the defence objects.

Watch: What happened in court on Friday?

Monday 8 May 2023 14:59 , Oliver O'Connell

UPDATE: "Thanks for joining me in the shower."



Days after Alex Cox shot and killed the defendant's then-husband Charles Vallow, Lori and Chad Daybell are texting sexual messages to one another, according to FBI testimony.#CourtTV What do YOU think? #DoomsdayCultMom pic.twitter.com/9VIiKVzNRi  Court TV (@CourtTV) May 5, 2023

Lori Vallow ignored stepsons pleas as she exchanged romantic texts with Chad Daybell

Monday 8 May 2023 14:31 , Oliver O'Connell

Week five of Lori Vallows murder trial concluded on Friday with a detailed look at text messages between the doomsday cult mom and Chad Daybell in the days after her husband Charles Vallow was killed by her brother.

As the two sent romantic messages to each other, Mr Vallows sons Zach and Cole pleaded with their stepmother to be told the basic details of how their father had died after she had nonchalantly informed them of his passing in a text.

Read more...

Lori Vallow trial hears romantic texts from Chad Daybell days after husbands death

Read the love story Chad Daybell wrote for Lori Vallow

Monday 8 May 2023 13:30 , Oliver O'Connell

1/3 The loinfire love story is being read in court by Agent Hart [READ FULL ROMANCE TEXT HERE] #LoinFire #LoriVallow #LoriVallowDaybell #loridaybelltrial pic.twitter.com/dWu0FZyM1M  Hidden True Crime (@HiddenTrueCrime) May 5, 2023

All the key revelations from Lori Vallows murder trial so far

Monday 8 May 2023 13:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Rachel Sharp has diligently catalogued all of the key moments in the first five weeks of the case against the doomsday cult mom:

Cult beliefs and charred remains: Key revelations from Lori Vallows murder trial

Lori Vallows friend says she threatened to cut up and bury her

Monday 8 May 2023 12:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallow threatened to kill her friend, cut her up and then bury her remains in a place nobody would ever find one month after her two children disappeared, according to bombshell testimony at the doomsday cult moms murder trial.

Ms Vallows friend Audrey Barattiero took the stand at Ms Vallows trial in Ada County Courthouse on Wednesday, revealing disturbing details about the alleged threat her former friend once made to her life.

Ms Barattiero testified that  one day in October 2019  she had asked Ms Vallow is there was anything weird going on.

She gave a chilling answer.

Lori Vallows friend Audrey Barattiero says she threatened to kill and bury her

Jury hears autopsy details that show Tammy Daybell was likely restrained during her murder

Monday 8 May 2023 11:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Tammy Daybell, the late wife of doomsday author Chad Daybell, was likely restrained while she was asphyxiated, the Utah state medical examiner told the jury in the trial of Lori Vallow on Monday.

Read more:

Lori Vallow trial hears Tammy Daybell was likely restrained during her murder

Jury hears Lori Vallows DNA was on duct tape wrapped around son JJs corpse

Monday 8 May 2023 09:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallows hair was found on duct tape wrapped around the corpse of her seven-year-old son, according to new evidence presented at the start of the fifth week of her murder trial.

Read more:

Lori Vallows DNA found on duct tape wrapped around son JJs corpse, jury hears

Chad Daybell claimed Lori Vallow didnt have children as police searched for them

Monday 8 May 2023 07:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad Daybell claimed his new wife Lori Vallow didnt have any children as authorities launched a massive search for her son and daughter that ended with the discovery of their bodies nine months later.

Rachel Sharp has the details.

Chad Daybell claimed Lori Vallow didnt have children as nine-month search launched

JJs horrifying cause of death revealed

Monday 8 May 2023 04:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallows seven-year-old son JJ Vallow had the date rape drug GHB in his system when he was smothered to death with plastic bags around his head, according to harrowing testimony from a pathologist.

Read more:

Lori Vallow trial told JJ had date rape drug GHB in system as cause of death revealed

Everything you need to know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

Monday 8 May 2023 02:00 , 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

Monday 8 May 2023 00:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad Daybell says wife Tammy is clearly dead in disturbing 911 call

Sunday 7 May 2023 22:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Chad Daybell made a chilling 911 call saying that his wife Tammy was clearly dead after he had allegedly conspired with Lori Vallow to murder her so they could run off to Hawaii to get married.

Rachel Sharp has the story.

Chad Daybell says wife Tammy is clearly dead in 911 call heard at Lori Vallow trial

Sunday 7 May 2023 20:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Bizarre moments from Lori Vallows murder trial

Sunday 7 May 2023 18:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Beyond the testimony, there have also been some bizarre happenings taking place inside the courtroom as Rachel Sharp reports.

Bizarre moments from Lori Vallows murder trial

Sunday 7 May 2023 16:00 , Oliver O'Connell

All the key players in the case against Lori Vallow

Sunday 7 May 2023 14:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Rachel Sharp profiles all the key players in a case that sprawls across five states and two years.

Who are the key players in Lori Vallows trial?

Who is the doomsday cult mom on trial for her childrens murders?

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallow is a mother of three, a former game show contestant, a Mrs Texas Beauty Pageant contestant and a cult follower.

But is she also a killer?

Lori Vallow: Who is the cult mom on trial for her childrens murders?

Killer tried to chop up Tylees body as her blood found on pickaxe

Sunday 7 May 2023 06:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallows daughters killer tried to chop up her body before burying her burned bones and organs on Chad Daybells property, according to disturbing courtroom testimony.

FBI Agent Douglas Halepaska, a forensic examiner in the firearms and tool marks division, testified at the doomsday cult moms murder trial on Thursday morning about the injuries found on 16-year-old Tylee Ryans skeletal remains.

Read more...

Lori Vallow trial hears how killer tried to chop up Tylees body with pickaxe

Did Lori Vallow accidentally make a key confession about her childrens deaths?

Sunday 7 May 2023 02:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori Vallows high-profile trial took an unexpected turn when jurors heard a dramatic jailhouse phone call in which the doomsday cult mom appeared to make a key confession about her childrens murders.

Rachel Sharp has the details.

Did Lori Vallow make a key confession about childrens deaths in a jail call?

Sunday 7 May 2023 00:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
Los Angeles Times photographer Christina House, left, is hugged by former Times videographer Claire Collins after House won the Pulitzer Prize for feature photography. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles Times won two Pulitzer Prizes on Monday for coverage of two of the most troubling problems facing Southern California: homelessness and racial division.

The newspapers staff won the Pulitzer for breaking news for a series of stories on a secret audio recording that exposed Los Angeles City Council members scheming in a crass and racist bull session about political power in the city.

Christina House won the feature photography prize for her deeply empathetic images of a young woman living alongside the Hollywood Freeway while coping with drug issues and the birth of a child.

The Times has now won seven breaking news Pulitzers, more than any other news organization. This also marked the fifth year in a row that the newspaper won at least one Pulitzer, considered the top honor in journalism, and brings The Times' all-time Pulitzer total to 51.

The papers staff was a finalist in the local reporting category for its series of stories on the wave of illegal cultivation, corruption and worker exploitation that followed the legalization of marijuana in California.

The Pulitzer board, based at Columbia University in New York, awarded the Public Service Medal to the Associated Press for "courageous reporting from the besieged city of Mariupol that bore witness to the slaughter of civilians in Russias invasion of Ukraine." The news service also won for breaking news photography for images from the war-ravaged city.

The website AL.com rivaled much larger outlets by earning two Pulitzers. A four-reporter team at the Alabama news site exposed how a town police force preyed on residents to inflate revenue; forcing out the police chief and prompting four new laws. AL.com also won in commentary for Kyle Whitmire's "measured and persuasive columns" on how the state's Confederate heritage still colors the present with racism and exclusion.

More than 100 members of the Los Angeles Times' staff gathered at noon in the lobby of the paper's offices in El Segundo to hear the news and to celebrate with champagne and a taco lunch.

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"You don't win big prizes if you're not doing the work consistently every day," said Times Executive Editor Kevin Merida. "I think the whole newsroom gets credit. So wrap yourself in the hug, because it takes all of us to produce this work."

Merida added that the prizes "reflect careful, sophisticated, nuanced reporting and photography on complex topics important to Angelenos: power, representation, race relations, homelessness."

Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong and his wife, Michele, also attended the celebration.

"Its especially meaningful that coverage of homelessness and local government have won Pulitzers this year," Soon-Shiong said. "Were committed to independent journalism that serves as a voice for those who are marginalized and underserved, and will continue to speak truth to power.

Los Angeles Times reporters Dakota Smith, left, David Zahniser, Benjamin Oreskes, Julia Wick and columnist Erika D. Smith celebrate in El Segundo after winning the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news reporting. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

A story that would come to dominate L.A. and its leaders for months began on a Saturday afternoon in early October, when reporter Julia Wick received a tip from a source: Members of the L.A. City Council and a labor leader had been recorded as they held a raw and ugly private chat about how they could hold on to power in the city.

A posting about the recording had appeared weeks earlier on Reddit. A full version was later uploaded to a Reddit users profile page but received little attention before The Times obtained a copy of the audio and began the intense and painstaking work of verifying and analyzing the contents, a task headed by Wick, David Zahniser, Dakota Smith and Benjamin Oreskes.

Just after 9 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 9, The Times posted a story detailing how Los Angeles City Council President Nury Martinez made cruel and racist remarks as she and fellow city lawmakers Kevin de Leon and Gilbert Cedillo discussed how they and other Latino politicians would solidify their positions.

Martinez focused particular animus on then-Councilman Mike Bonin, who is white, and Bonins young son, who is Black. At one point, Martinez called Bonin a little bitch and referred to his son as a changuito, or like a monkey. She also said Bonins son had misbehaved on a parade float and needed a beatdown.

While the reporters worked to validate the recordings, Times General Counsel Jeff Glasser fended off legal threats by lawyers from the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, whose president, Ron Herrera, had joined in the talk about increasing the number of seats on the City Council held by Latinos. The union argued the recording had been obtained illegally, without the permission of the participants, leaving The Times open to "potential liability." Glasser countered that the paper had a 1st Amendment right to publish information of intense public interest.

The revelations triggered a wave of indignation and calls for Martinez and the other council members to resign. In less than a week, the powerful council president was pressured into resigning. Cedillo had lost his reelection bid months earlier and left the council at the end of his term, while demands for De Leons resignation continue to this day.

Herrera also resigned, ending his tenure at "the Fed," one of the most powerful labor and political organizations in California.

Over the weeks that followed, much of The Times' staff would become engaged in parsing the recording and its contexts, including over redistricting, obscure political rivalries and the sweeping racial divisions that beset Los Angeles.

One story dived into the fragile and newly threatened alliances between Black and Latino Angelenos. Another profiled the blunt-talking Martinez, known for her representation of working-class San Fernando Valley communities such as Arleta, Sun Valley and Panorama City.

The Times later published an annotated comprehensive transcript of the entire dialogue to help readers decode its jargon and arcane references. Times journalists explained references to other city corruption cases, where "bags of cash" were passed, and broke down the councilwoman's proud reference to wearing her "Doc Martens"  effectively telling her colleagues that she came to their meeting "to rumble."

More than a dozen Times journalists shared bylines or credit lines on the stories submitted to the Pulitzer judges. They included City Hall regulars Zahniser, Smith and Wick, along with Oreskes and others quickly drawn into the story: Gustavo Arellano, Erika D. Smith, Jessica Garrison, Ruben Vives, Marisa Gerber, Angel Jennings, Emily Alpert Reyes, Melanie Mason and Libor Jany.

Assistant Managing Editor Steve Clow, a newsroom veteran who has headed other Pulitzer-winning efforts, spearheaded the coverage.

Zahniser, who has covered Los Angeles City Hall for more than two decades, said he was surprised that the breaking news Pulitzer had gone to a story that began as a City Hall intrigue, because the award often goes to accounts of death and destruction, both natural and man-made.

The revelations hit Angelenos so hard because "it struck at the heart of whether they could believe in their city, whether they could believe in their government. And I think L.A., on really good days, has this aspirational thing about how everybody can live together harmoniously," Zahniser said. But the "casual cruelty and reflexive racism" unveiled by the recording "took a baseball bat" to the notion of a post-racial L.A.

Houses work grew out of her collaboration with video journalist Claire Collins and homelessness reporter Gale Holland. Collins had the initial idea to focus intently on the travails of unhoused women who endure pregnancies, and sometimes births, while living on the street.

The story began when Holland got a call from a mother, Cat Trahan, distraught that her daughter had lost all of her possessions, including her prenatal vitamins, during a sweep of her encampment. Afraid the younger Trahan would disappear, House insisted: We need to go now. Collins, Holland and House soon found themselves stepping through a hole in the fence above the freeway and into the world of Mckenzie Trahan, nearly seven months pregnant and a member of Hollywood's unhoused community since she was 13.

Over the following years, they came to deeply know not only Trahan but two other women  her mother and case manager  whose lives were also blighted by homelessness.

House captured the most intimate moments of the young womans life, including as she gave birth to her daughter and later as she shared a bath with her baby.

Speaking to colleagues Monday, House described how she was once inspired by a T-shirt worn by Lakers great Kareem Abdul Jabbar. Its message: Make a friend with someone who is different from you, and your world will change.

"That's the reason we do what we do," House said. "We invite readers to . . . view the world from a different perspective. I think that is why this story hit home, because Mckenzie is a homeless person living on the streets, struggling with a multitude of issues. But first and foremost, she is a human being."

The stories appeared in a special section of The Times last July, headlined Hollywoods Finest.

A documentary Collins made as part of the project premiered at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival and was named a finalist for feature in January 2023.

The Times' series on legalized marijuana that was named a Pulitzer finalist revealed widespread criminality, labor abuses and environmental consequences for California. To get the stories, a team of reporters filed myriad public records requests and conducted sometimes dangerous forays into the field.

The investigation provoked the California Department of Cannabis Control into expanding its mission to investigate labor exploitation and human trafficking. The stories got the states workplace safety agency to launch an investigation into farmworker deaths that had been cited by The Times. Lawmakers also pledged to introduce new protections for cannabis workers.

Besides the 15 prizes for journalism, eight prizes were given for the arts and literature, including a first in the more-than-100-year history of the honors  a double award in the fiction category, with Barbara Kingsolver winning for "Demon Copperhead and Hernan Diaz honored for "Trust."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Love Island star Wes Nelson has been rushed to hospital after losing consciousness at his home in London.

The reality TV star, 25, informed fans of the incident on Instagram, sharing pictures of himself lying on a bed in A&E.

So yesterday I randomly started to lose vision/consciousness in my house! he wrote.

Managed to get to my neighbours who took care of me and got me to hospital in the ambulance.

Wont go into detail but we did a bunch of tests and throughout the day and theyve have told me Im all good now.

Nelson, who has embarked on a music career since leaving the villa, said he still plans to go through with his 14-date tour of the UK and Ireland.

I feel LOADS better today! he posted on Monday 8 May. Got the green light for TOUR tomorrow.

Wes Nelson (Wes Nelson Instagram)

A spokesperson for Nelson further told The Independent: Wes is in good health and spirits ahead of his tour kicking off tomorrow in Glasgow.

Thankfully doctors have given him a clean bill of health after his visit to hospital yesterday.

He has been working very hard lately in preparation for his first headline tour and release of his first single last week on Friday so has taken some time to rest this bank holiday.

Nelson was a memorable contestant on the 2018 season of Love Island, during which he had a brief relationship with Megan Barton-Hanson. He launched his music career in 2020 with his single See Nobody.

Speaking about his Love Island experience the year after leaving the show, Nelson revealed that producers told contestants to take their tops off in the villa.

Me and Josh [Denzel] used to run out all the time in our hoodies, and theyd be like, Wes, take that off, he said.

The 2023 series of Love Island is expected to kick off on ITV2 in June.
A Lyndhurst staffing agency will be forced to pay back wages and liquidated damages for almost 300 employees after the U.S. Department of Labor found that it did not provide overtime hours.

Advantix Logistics Corp. and its owner, Michael Mortorano will be required to pay 289 warehouse employees $910,000 in back wages and liquidated damages, according to a statement from the New Jersey Department of Labor.

The U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey ordered Advantix Logistics and Mortorano to pay "$455,000 in back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages."

The investigation by the Wage and Hour Division found that Mortorano violated the Fair Labor Standards Act by not keeping accurate employee hour records, in addition to failing to pay overtime. The employees of the agency spent up to 70 hours loading and unloading freight from containers and pallets at warehouses.

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"Employers must pay employees all of their rightfully earned wages or face costly consequences when they dont," said Paula Ruffin, the director of the Wage and Hour Division's North Jersey district office. "We encourage employers to contact us with questions or concerns about their pay practices."

Mortorano could not immediately be reached for comment.

Jeffrey Rogoff, a Labor Department regional solicitor in New York, said the judgment against Advantix Logistics shows companies that they can and will be held accountable when they don't pay workers fairly.

"The U.S. Department of Labor is prepared to use every tool available, including litigation, to prevent employers from violating workers rights," Rogoff said.

This is not the first time Advantix has had to pay an employee damages. In November 2022, the staffing agency was ordered to pay $65,000 in damages to a separate employee who was fired after they complained about not being paid for all of their hours.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Lyndhurst NJ company Advantix Logistics ordered to pay unpaid OT
PARIS (AP)  French President Emmanuel Macron led the traditional ceremony on Paris Champs-Elysees Monday commemorating the day that marked the end of World War II in Europe in 1945.

Flanked by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, Macron laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe monument. A brass band played the Marseillaise.

To limit disruptions amid ongoing opposition to Macron and his contested pension reforms, police banned gatherings around the area of the ceremony in the French capital, and in Lyon where the president will travel later in the day.

Authorities are being vigilant that a casserolade  or the loud banging of pots and pans in protest will not distract from the memorial ceremonies.

In Lyon, Macron is paying tribute to the French Resistance movement and one of its leaders, Jean Moulin. Macron is visiting Montluc prison, where Moulin was detained and tortured by the Gestapo.
More than 143,000 Illinois TurboTax customers will receive checks from a multi-state settlement with the tax filing software companys owner, Intuit.

Intuit is coughing up $141 million in settlement money nationwide after the company deceived customers into paying for tax services that should have been free. Illinois will get a total of $4.38 million from the agreement.

Those who qualified for the U.S. Internal Revenue Services free file program but still paid TurboTax for tax return services in 2016, 2017 and 2018 are eligible for reimbursement. Customers will receive a check totaling between $29 and $30 for every year they paid for the services.

I am pleased that consumers will start to receive checks under the settlement, which holds Intuit accountable for intentionally deceiving taxpayers simply to increase sales of their products, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul said in a May 4 press release.

Qualifying individuals will get an email from Rust Consulting, the settlement fund administrator. The automatic checks will be sent out this month, starting this week.

The settlement also requires Intuit to stop its free, free, free advertising campaign that made customers pay after promising free services.
Former coworkers say Zion Teasley, an Arizona man charged with murdering 29-year-old Lauren Heike on a walking path outside of Phoenix, had a history of harassing his female colleagues.

Mr Teasley, who was arrested last week after DNA evidence and surveillance footage suggested he was on the trail with Heike around the time of her death, previously worked at a sportswear store near the site of the killing, according to court documents obtained by local news station KTVK.

The 22-year-old was later fired from the store for being aggressive towards female employees, and appeared on surveillance footage to be wearing clothes he was suspected of stealing from the store, according to detectives.

Mr Teasley, who appeared for the first time in court on Friday, reportedly told investigators he was the man captured on surveillance video trailing behind Heike, before later recanting.

He also allegedly described growing up Christian, struggling with his sexuality, and worrying about the "salvation of his soul due to his thoughts.

"I am definitely not the person who plans to kill another person," he allegedly added, saying, "If I was going to do something like that, it wouldnt be premeditated."

Police say the 22-year-old had a plane ticket to Detroit booked around the time of the murder.

Mr Teasley was previously in the Marine Corps, but didnt complete basic training, and was convicted in 2020 for armed robbery.

Police say Heike was stabbed 15 times and appeared to have run through a barbed-wire fence before her death.

City officials offered their condolences at a Friday press conference.

"Your daughter sounds like a wonderful person and we are so glad she was part of our community," mayor Kate Gallego said. "May her memory be a blessing to you. She was taken from us too soon."

The alleged assailant is now being held on $1m bond in the Maricopa County jail.

He faces both the murder charge and alleged probation violations relating to his previous arrest.
A 19 year old was shot and killed in Whitesburg Saturday morning, multiple news outlets in the region have reported.

Nolan Naegele was allegedly shot by his passenger while the vehicle Naegele was driving was being pursued by police, the Mountain Eagle reported Saturday, citing the arrest citation. After Naegele was fatally shot once in the shoulder, the truck struck a guardrail along Kentucky Route 15.

Ethan Brown, also 19, was in the vehicle with Naegele and was charged with murder in connection to the incident. According to online court records, Brown was arrested at the scene and housed at the Letcher County Jail without bail. He was scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning in Letcher District Court.

Prior to the shooting, Brown called his mother and said he was being held hostage and needed $2,500, Tyrone Fields, the Whitesburg police chief, told WYMT. Browns mother contacted police. An officer on patrol noticed the vehicle Naegele was driving and attempted to stop it. Fields said thats when Brown allegedly shot Naegele.

Brown surrendered immediately after the vehicle came to a rest, Fields said.

The arrest citation stated that Brown and Naegele had been using meth together for three days, the Mountain Eagle reported. During that time, Naegele had held Brown hostage and had fired shots at him from a handgun, Brown told police. He said he owed Naegele $2,500.

Naegele was transported to a Appalachian Regional Healthcare facility where he was pronounced dead, WYMT reported.

This is a developing story and may be updated.
Jan Dusek of Naperville holds a sign while listening to speakers voicing opinions on Napervilles proposed ban on the sale of high-powered weapons during a City Council meeting on July 19, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

Gun bans in Illinois and Naperville should remain in effect while legal challenges work their way through the courts, attorneys for the state and western suburb argue in briefs filed Monday with the U.S. Supreme Court.

The responses were sent to Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett in her role overseeing the U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, which last month turned down a request from a Naperville gun shop owner and a gun rights organization to put the bans on hold.

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The Naperville City Council approved a local ban on the sale of certain high-powered firearms a month after the deadly mass shooting at last years Fourth of July parade in north suburban Highland Park. The state followed suit in January with a law that immediately banned the sale of certain semi-automatic guns as well as high-capacity ammunition magazines statewide.

Robert Bevis, owner of Law Weapons & Supply, and the National Association for Gun Rights challenge both the Naperville ordinance and the state law in their federal lawsuit, arguing the gun bans violate the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. The plaintiffs asked the Supreme Court to intervene in late April after both the U.S. District Court and the 7th Circuit declined to issue injunctions while the case is being adjudicated.

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Robert Bevis, owner of Law Weapons & Supply, speaks in opposition to Napervilles proposed ban on the sale of assault weapons during a City Council meeting on July 19, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

In its 44-page filing to the Supreme Court, the state argues that Bevis and the gun group have failed to show that they are likely to succeed in overturning the laws or to prove that it would be appropriate for the high court to step in this early in the proceedings.

They principally argue that the district court erred in denying a preliminary injunction  but this Court is not a court of error correction, Democratic Attorney General Kwame Raouls office wrote in its response.

Bevis and the gun rights group also failed to show that they would suffer irreparable harm if the law were to remain in place, which might justify an emergency response from the Supreme Court, Raouls office argues.

They have not shown that their inability to purchase or sell a narrow category of firearms  assault weapons and (large-capacity magazines)  will irreparably harm them, the state says in its response. By contrast, the Acts restrictions on assault weapons and (large-capacity magazines) promote a compelling interest in protecting the public and saving lives.

In a separate 23-page response, lawyers for the city of Naperville argue that just because those challenging the laws assert that this presents an issue of constitutional import is not a reason for sidestepping the ordinary appellate process.

If the Supreme Court were to grant the request, it would suggest that emergency relief is the rule, not the exception, the Naperville lawyers argue.

In their request for emergency relief, Bevis and the gun rights group argued that there cannot be the slightest question  that the challenged laws are unconstitutional because they place restrictions on the sale and possession of weapons that are possessed by millions of law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes, including self-defense in the home.

In addition, they said the laws fail to meet the guidelines for permissible restrictions laid out in recent Supreme Court rulings in gun control cases, including a decision last summer in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, which struck down New York states concealed carry law.

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How the courts, including the Supreme Court, apply the Bruen decision to bans on high-powered semi-automatic rifles is at the crux of the ongoing legal battles.

People opposed to Napervilles proposed ban on the sale of high-powered weapons appear at a City Council meeting on July 19, 2022. The Naperville City Council approved the local ban on the sale of certain high-powered firearms a month after last years mass shooting at Highland Parks Fourth of July parade. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Opponents of the state law argue that it is a clear violation of the Second Amendment because it bans weapons that are widely used, while supporters  led by Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who signed the ban hours after it was passed in January  argue that the laws fall within the historical tradition of regulating and banning dangerous and unusual weapons.

It was unclear when the high court would issue a decision on the request for an emergency injunction. Barrett has the option to act alone or refer the matter to the full court.

The states gun ban faces several other legal challenges in both federal and state courts.

The 7th Circuit last week placed on hold a ruling from a federal judge in the Southern District of Illinois that had temporarily blocked enforcement of the state ban.

In addition to the Naperville case, the federal court for the Northern District of Illinois also ruled in favor of the state late last month in a case brought by a Chicago emergency room doctor.

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Next week, the Illinois Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments in a legal challenge brought by Republican state Rep. Dan Caulkins of Decatur and others.

dpetrella@chicagotribune.com
A 26-year-old man killed in a crash into a parked truck south of Fresno was identified Monday by the Fresno County Coroners Office.

The collision about 5:45 a.m. Sunday killed Edgar Maravilla when his Honda Accord drifted to the right side of the road and into the truck and trailer, the California Highway Patrol said.

He was going south on Cherry Avenue south of Lincoln Avenue before the fatal crash, CHP said.

Maravilla died at the scene. CHP said it was not immediately known whether alcohol or drugs were a factor in the incident.
A Georgia man died in a house fire after going back in to save his familys dogs, relatives and fire rescue officials said.

My dad was...He was trying to get out...He was so close... Aaliyah Mitchem told WGXA of her father, 45-year-old William Mitchem. Crews found his body near the front door.

Firefighters responded around 10 p.m. May 3 after reports of a fire at a home in Milledgeville, according to WMGT. They arrived to find the house engulfed in flames and were told someone was still inside.

Mitchem was reportedly trying to save the familys pets after the fire broke out, Baldwin County Fire Rescue Chief Victor Young told The Union-Recorder. Both dogs are believed to have died in the blaze.

McClatchy News reached out to Baldwin County Fire Rescue on May 8 and was awaiting a response.

We lost a great man, a GoFundMe launched for the family reads. Snug was a true hero to everyone around him ... He would help anyone, anywhere. We as a family are in shock.

Relatives said its not the first time Mitchem jumped into action to save a loved one, according to WGXA. Last year, he helped rescue his 5-year-old granddaughter when she became trapped after falling into a 40-foot well.

He was the only one skinny enough to fit in that hole to go down there and get her and bring her back up, Aaliyah Mitchem told the station. And in this fire he was ... at the front door trying to get the dogs out.

Firefighters discovered Mitchems body after putting out the flames.

An investigation determined the blaze was accidental and likely caused by a pinched wire on a surge protector, fire rescue Capt. Bradley Towe told The Union-Recorder.

Towe said pinched cords can cause a breakdown of insulation inside the wiring, leading to electrical heating and eventually ignition when they touch, according to the newspaper.

No funeral plans for Mitchem have been announced as of May 8.

Milledgeville is about 95 miles southeast of Atlanta.

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Donald E. Whiting Jr. signs a document Monday waiving his right to a jury trial for attempted murder as Public Defender Nicole Stephen looks in Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court. He was deemed not guilty by reason of insanity for firing shots at county sheriff's deputies during a 2021 confrontation.

NEW PHILADELPHIA  A judge has found a 70-year-old Bolivar-area man not guilty by reason of insanity for shooting at law enforcement officers two years ago.

Donald E. Whiting Jr. will spend 14 years under court supervision as a result of the ruling, according to Assistant Tuscarawas County Prosecutor Fred Scott. The time period is the same as the maximum allowable prison sentence for the most serious crime with which he was charged, attempted murder, Scott said. He had also been charged with felonious assault and two counts of failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer for an ensuring vehicle chase.

Competency restored: Donald E. Whiting, Jr. found competent to stand trial, getting sanity evaluation

Initial finding: Donald E. Whiting, Jr. found not competent to stand trial for attempted murder

Charged: Bolivar-area man, 68, indicted on attempted murder charge, shooting at law enforcement

Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Judge Elizabeth Lehigh Thomakos issued the verdict following a short trial Monday afternoon. She heard brief statements from Scott and Public Defender Nicole Stephan after Whiting waived his right to a jury trial.

The prosecution and defense agreed to the allegations in the indictment and the evidence presented in court. The evidence consisted of reports from the Tuscarawas County Sheriff's Office. There was no witness testimony.

Two separate psychological evaluations found Whiting suffered from mental disease at the time of the offenses, May 18, 2021, and was not capable of understanding that his actions were wrong. He was initially found incompetent to stand trial, but was restored to competency through treatment at Heartland Behavioral Healthcare in Massillon.

Donald E. Whiting's arrest in 2021

The was arrested after a deputy responded to a complaint from a neighbor who said Whiting put a disturbing letter in her mailbox. Deputy Ray Cottrell went to Whiting's home at 1337 Russell Drive NW in Lawrence Township.

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Donald E. Whiting Jr. appears Monday in Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court. He was found not guilty by reason of insanity in connection with a May 18, 2021, confrontation in which he fired at sheriff's deputies.

After no one answered a knock at the door, the deputy saw two spent shell casings outside the door and walked back to his cruiser, according to a letter from Scott to Special Agent Ed Staley of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Whiting fired at the dirt near Cottrell, who then took a defensive position behind his cruiser and called for backup, Scott said.

"Eventually he comes out of his house after ... a few hours with a rifle, and he fires one shot and then there were several officers who returned fire at that point," Scott said. "Mr. Whiting goes back inside his house. At that point, they were able to get into his car and they took a (loaded) Hi-Point pistol out of his car."

Judge Elizabeth Lehigh Thomakos presides over the trial of Donald E. Whiting Jr. for attempted murder on Monday in Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court.

Whiting had fired at sheriff's Sgts. Ryan Hamilton and Joseph Jones, according to Scott's letter. Jones, Hamilton and Bolivar police Sgt. Chad Hilty all returned fire. Hilty had yelled commands at Whiting before the shots were fired.

A chase and crash

Nearly four hours after Cottrell first arrived at Whiting's home, Whiting went to his garage and walked to his truck. Whiting ignored commands from Deputy Robert Mecomonaco, got into his truck and drove around the cruiser Mecomonaco was using for cover, and began leaving the driveway by turning toward other parked police cruisers.

"At this point, Deputy Mecomonaco saw Whiting remove his right hand from the steering wheel, heard what he believed to be a gunshot, and saw the passenger window of Whiting's truck shatter," Scott's letter said. "Deputy Mecomonaco then fired one round with his handgun at the truck. Deputy Mecomonaco later learned that Tuscarawas County Sheriff's Lt. Brian Alford had actually fired a tear gas canister at the truck which had shattered the driver's side window."

Whiting drove away and led officers on a high-speed chase that ended when he crashed into a guardrail on state Route 800 in Fairfield Township.

The defendant sustained a leg wound from being hit with one round, County Prosecutor Ryan Styer said when Whiting appeared in New Philadelphiua Municipal Court.

Scott's letter also said his office would not prosecute Hamilton, Jones, Hilty or Mecomonaco because they were justified in using deadly force.

The next step in Whiting's case is an assessment to determine where he should be kept based upon his needs and the safety of the community, Thomakos said. It is expected within 10 days.

Whiting has been in custody since his arrest.

Reach Nancy at 330-364-8402 or nancy.molnar@timesreporter.com.

On Twitter: @nmolnarTR

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Donald Whiting found not guilty for 2021 law enforcement confrontation
Police are investigating after a man was found dead on a road in Seattles Delridge neighborhood.

Officers arrived at the scene on 15th Avenue Southwest near Cambridge Street shortly after 3 a.m. after 911 calls were made by the victims relatives, according to Shawn Weismiller with the Seattle Police Department.

Police found the victim lying in the street with a suspected gunshot wound. Officers attempted lifesaving measures, but the 41-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Neighbor Ashleigh Sellers said she was awoken by a nearby commotion.

Seattle police arrived shortly after 3 a.m.

Seattle police said a 41-year-old man was found dead in the street.

Seattle police said a 41-year-old man was found dead in the street.

Seattle police said a 41-year-old man was found dead in the street.

It is not known how many times the victim was shot.

There is so suspect description.

I heard like a lot of screaming and yelling. Mainly a woman. I could kind of hear a guy, but it was mainly a woman. And just screaming., It was kind of inaudible what she was saying until the cops showed, said Sellers.

It is unclear what led up to the shooting. No one has been arrested and there is no suspect information at this time.

Homicide detectives are leading the investigation. Officers are canvassing the area for possible witnesses and surveillance video.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the Seattle Police Department Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.
















A man is facing 80 charges after state police say he led them on a chase Sunday afternoon.

Around 3:30 p.m. Sunday, state police in Washington responded to the Red Roof Inn at 1399 W. Chestnut St. in Canton Township.

The manager told police Levi Areford, 20, of Canonsburg, failed to pay for his room and was yelling at staff. Areford was in the Dennys parking lot, which is across the street.

Troopers attempted to make contact with Areford, who then led troopers on a chase through Canton Township, through several streets and onto Interstate 70. The chase lasted about 10 minutes, according to a report, and reached speeds of 95 mph. State police say Areford nearly caused several crashes.

The chase ended back at the Red Roof Inn, where a trooper had to physically remove Areford from his vehicle, according to state police.

He was taken into custody and placed in the Washington County Jail.

Areford is charged with 80 counts, including DUI, theft of services, fleeing and eluding, resisting arrest, fraud and numerous traffic violations.

He is due back in court next week.

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Mikalai Klimovicz, a Belarusian man who was sentenced to jail for sharing a satirical drawing of Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on social media, has died in prison, according to a human rights group.

The 61-year-old political prisoner only lasted a little over two months in jail, the Viasna Human Rights Center said Monday. He was sentenced in February to one year in jail on charges of insulting the president of the Belarus. Viasna learned of his death on Sunday.

It was not clear what the cause of death was. Klimovicz had previously suffered stroke and had recently undergone heart surgery, according to Viasna.

Klimovicz previously said he feared he would die in jail due to his medical conditions.

Any prison sentence for me is death because I need to be under constant medical supervision and take many strong medications. I may not even survive a month, he said in March.

Putins Favorite Neighbor Is Caving in to the Kremlin

Friends and family have previously expressed concern over his treatment and access to medical care during his detention, according to the Belarusian Association of Journalists.

The opposition is blaming his death on Lukashenkos government, Franak Viacorka, the chief political adviser to Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, told The Daily Beast Monday.

We believe that he is a victim of the regime and the regime knew about his condition. He was not provided medical assistance. He was not provided medicines and visits of doctor, Viacorka told The Daily Beast. He is the victim and the regime is guilty. The prosecutor and the judge, they all must be brought to account for this crime.

As of Monday, 1,493 people are considered political prisoners in Belarus, according to Viasna. Lukashenko and Belarusian authorities treat political prisoners poorly with the intent of depriving them morally and physically, Viacorka said. Its a practice the opposition says must be righted.

We see this trend of the worsening of conditions for political prisoners. Right now they are all badged by a special yellow sign, they are not allowed to talk, they are kept in the worst cells, Viacorka said. Many are kept in the solitary cells or punishment cells, and regular, regular beatings. They can just wake you up in the morning in the cell, put you in the corridor, and beat you until bloody.

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First its deterioration of health. And the goal of this imprisonment is always to destroy morally and physically the activist, Viacorka added.

The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejcinovic Buric, denounced his death Monday.

I deplore the death in prison of Belarusian blogger Mikalay Klimovich, my thoughts are with his family & friends, she said on social media.

Andrej Stryzha, the head of the Belarusian human rights organization BYPOL, shared a photo of Klimovich Monday in a social media post calling for donations to help cover his funeral costs.

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said his death is a reminder that Belarus needs to provide medical care to political prisoners.

Heartbroken by the news that political prisoner Mikalai Klimovich died in the penal colony. The 61-year-old was sentenced to prison for a caricature of Lukashenka, despite having a serious heart problem. If we don't get urgent medical help to political prisoners, more will die, Tsikhanouskaya said on Twitter.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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An Easthampton man has been sentenced to seven to eight years in state prison for destroying evidence and improperly disposing a womans body after she died of an overdose, by leaving her body down an embankment in Westford without telling authorities, the district attorney said.

Daniel Perras, 59, pleaded guilty in Middlesex Superior Court to destruction of evidence and improper disposal of a body in connection with leaving the body of Melissa Mestre on Providence Road in Westford, disposing of her belongings and never notifying authorities of her death, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said in a statement on Monday.

Perras was also sentenced to three years of probation on and after for improper disposal of a dead body, Ryan said.

On Feb. 2, 2019, a Westford resident walking his dog on Providence Road found Melissa Mestres body down an embankment on the side of the road, Ryan said.

When police arrived, they found Mestre with obvious signs of death, Ryan said.

Melissa Mestre

Mestre did not have any identification and investigators initially had no information as to who she was, how she died or how she ended up on the side of the road, Ryan said.

Investigators later identified Mestre and Perras, and they learned that Mestre and Perras had recently met and that on Jan. 31, 2019, Perras had picked Mestre up at her home in Springfield, Ryan said.

Perras then drove from Springfield to the Haverhill area, where he sold a large quantity of heroin to another person, Ryan said. After that heroin sale, Perras began driving back towards western Massachusetts.

While driving, Perras realized that Mestre had died of a drug overdose, Ryan said. He pulled off of the highway onto Boston Road in Westford.

Perras drove past the fire station and took multiple turns until he eventually ended up on a secluded area of Providence Road, Ryan said. There, Perras pulled Mestres body out of his car and left it down the embankment on the side of the road.

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Perras left with Mestres belongings, which included her purse and cell phone. Perras never alerted the authorities to Mestres death or where he left her, Ryan said.

Investigators were able to track Perras along Route 2 to the French King Bridge in Erving, Ryan said. While at that bridge, Perras disposed of Mestres belongings, including her purse and cell phone. Perras then drove to his home.

Mestre was born in Pittsfield, and a graduate of Monument Mountain High School, according to her obituary.

Melissa had a laugh that was immediately identifiable, and a smile that was infectious, her obituary states. She loved all music and was passionate about it. Her love for music was matched by her love for animals - horses in particular - and her dog.

As a cancer survivor, Melissa was a fighter, her obituary states. She triumphed over Lifes challenges, however, her challenges did not define her, as she defined herself by her love for her children and her family.

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OTTAWA (Reuters) - A man who threw gravel at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the 2021 election campaign was sentenced to 90 days of house arrest and one year of probation by a court in Ontario on Monday, according to his lawyer.

Trudeau was hit by a handful of gravel in 2021 while on the campaign trail as he made his way past a crowd shouting their opposition to COVID-19-related mandates and restrictions. The prime minister was not injured and his Liberal Party went on to win the election.

Shane Marshall later pleaded guilty in March to a charge of common assault related to that incident.

Ontario court Justice Kevin McHugh found Marshall's conduct had the potential to cause serious injury to a senior politician, though his remorse and lack of a criminal record were mitigating factors in the sentencing, Marshall's lawyer, Luke Reidy, said in an email.

McHugh's decision was well balanced and appropriate under the circumstances, Reidy said.

Marshall's lawyers had requested that he be sentenced to 60 days of community sentence, while prosecutors had asked for a 30-day jail term.

The prosecutor in the case did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Ismail Shakil; Editing by Sandra Maler)
A man has been charged with murder after stabbing his stepfather to death during a family gathering, Nebraska police say.

The fatal stabbing occurred Sunday, May 7, at a home in Lincoln, police chief Teresa Ewins said.

Police said 40-year-old Joseph Kruger got into an argument with his stepfather during the gathering. Joseph Kruger is accused of stabbing his stepfather, Mark Kruger, in the torso.

Mark Kruger, 59, died after being taken to a hospital, Ewins said during a news briefing streamed Monday by the Lincoln Journal Star.

Police arrested the stepson at the scene. He was charged with second-degree murder, according to the police chief.

A weapon believed to have been used in the fatal attack, a steak knife, was recovered at the home, Ewins said.

This is a tragic event for this family, and our hearts go out for them, the police chief said. I cant imagine what theyre feeling right now, the loss of a husband and the arrest of a stepson.

A GoFundMe states Mark Kruger brought joy to so many peoples lives.

Mark was a wonderful man, a father, brother, uncle, papa, friend, second dad to many of us, the GoFundMe says.

Dad dies after hes found with stab wounds, Texas cops say. Son charged with murder

Son had father killed at McDonalds drive-thru after he survived other attacks, feds say

Teen stabs father 45 times at familys store, then goes to school, Indiana cops say
People are evacuated by the Indian army to a temporary shelter as they flee ethnic violence that has hit the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, near Imphal on May 7, 2023.

Sixty people have been killed in ethnic clashes in the north-eastern Indian state of Manipur with mobs attacking homes, vehicles, churches and temples, officials say.

N Biren Singh, the chief minister of Manipur, said in a press conference on Monday that more than 200 people were injured and tens of thousands displaced in the clashes.

The violence began last week after indigenous communities held a rally to protest against demands by the main ethnic group in the state for tribal status.

Members of the Meitei community, who account for 53% of the state's population, have been demanding inclusion under the Scheduled Tribe category for years which will give them access to forest lands and guarantee them a proportion of government jobs and places in educational institutions.

The communities already recognised as Scheduled Tribes, especially Kukis who live in the hill districts, worry that they may lose control over their ancestral forest land if the Meitei's demand is accepted.

On Monday, India's Home Minister Amit Shah told a news channel that the situation in Manipur was under control and appealed to the people to maintain peace. The Manipur government would consult all stakeholders before taking a decision on the matter, he said.

Thousands of troops have been deployed in the state to maintain order and a curfew is in place in several districts and internet access has been suspended. Last week, the state's governor issued "shoot-on-sight" orders in "extreme cases" to bring the situation under control.

India's Supreme Court has expressed concern over the violence and asked the state government to submit an updated report on relief and rehabilitation measures after a week.

People wait at a temporary shelter in a military camp, after being evacuated by the Indian army, as they flee ethnic violence in the northeastern state of Manipur on May 7, 2023

Mr Singh said on Monday that more than 20,000 people "who were left stranded in relief camps" had been moved to safety. He said efforts were on to rescue another 10,000 people.

People wait at a temporary shelter in a military camp as they flee ethnic violence that has hit the northeastern Indian state of Manipur on May 7, 2023

The evacuees include a large number of women and children.

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Locals say they are worried about their future. "We don't feel safe right now," L Sanglun Simte, a resident of the state capital Imphal, told AFP news agency. The 29-year-old Kuki has been camping outside Imphal airport with 11 of his family members.

The army on Sunday said that there had been a lull in the fighting after soldiers worked "tirelessly for the past 96 hours to rescue civilians across all communities, curb violence and restore normalcy".

People queue up for a food distribution by the Indian army at Imphal airport on May 7, 2023, as they flee ethnic violence that has hit the northeastern Indian state of Manipur.

But the situation is still tense in several parts of the state.

While local residents remain in army shelters, other states have sent rescue teams to get their people out of Manipur.

Some states like Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh have arranged special flights for the evacuees.

Mr Singh said that more than 1,000 guns had been looted from security personnel, of which around 200 had been recovered. He added that unless the weapons were returned to police stations, the state would launch an operation to recover them.

In this picture taken on May 3, 2023, smoke billows from a house allegedly burned by the Meitei community which is demanding inclusion under the Scheduled Tribes category, in Churachandpur district of India's Manipur state.

Violence began last Wednesday. Mobs vandalised vehicles and burned homes and shops in Imphal, and several other districts.

Video and photos showed buildings set on fire, with thick black smoke engulfing the streets.

Indian Army soldiers patrol during a rescue operation following ethnic violence in the region, near Imphal, northeastern Indian state of Manipur on May 7, 2023

The army says it is bringing the situation under control.

On Monday, people came out to buy food and medicines after curfews were relaxed for a few hours in the affected areas, news agency PTI reported.

All photos Getty Images
Data shows gun ownership in the US has grown over the last several years

Gun violence is a fixture in American life - but the issue is a highly political one, pitting gun control advocates against people who are fiercely protective of their right to bear arms.

We've looked into some of the numbers behind firearms in the US.

Mass shootings on the rise

There have been more than 200 mass shootings across the US so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more people are injured or killed. Their figures include shootings that happen in homes and in public places.

There have been two in Texas in the last week - five killed at a home in Cleveland, north of Houston, and eight dead at a shopping mall in Allen, near Dallas.

In each of the last three years, there have been more than 600 mass shootings, almost two a day on average.

The deadliest such attack, in Las Vegas in 2017, killed more than 50 people and left 500 wounded. The vast majority of mass shootings, however, leave fewer than 10 people dead.

Graphic showing year by year mass shootings

How do US gun deaths break down?

48,830 people died from gun-related injuries in the US during 2021, according to the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

That's nearly an 8% increase from 2020, which was a record-breaking year for firearm deaths.

While mass shootings and gun murders (homicides) generally garner much media attention, more than half of the total in 2021 were suicides.

Chart showing a breakdown of gun-related deaths in the US

That year, more than 20,000 of the deaths were homicides, according to the CDC.

Data shows more than 50 people are killed each day by a firearm in the US.

That's a significantly larger proportion of homicides than is the case in Canada, Australia, England and Wales, and many other countries.

Graphic showing an international comparison of gun-related killings as a percentage of all homicides in each country. The US leads with nearly 79% of all homicides occurring with guns.

How many guns are there in the US?

While calculating the number of guns in private hands around the world is difficult, the latest figures from the Small Arms Survey - a Swiss-based research project - estimated that there were 390 million guns in circulation in the US in 2018.

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The US ratio of 120.5 firearms per 100 residents, up from 88 per 100 in 2011, far surpasses that of other countries around the world.

Chart showing civilian gun ownership around the world

More recent data out of the US suggests that gun ownership grew significantly over the last few years. A study, published by the Annals of Internal Medicine in February, found that 7.5 million US adults became new gun owners between January 2019 and April 2021.

This, in turn, exposed 11 million people to firearms in their homes, including 5 million children. About half of new gun owners in that time period were women, while 40% were either black or Hispanic.

Who supports gun control?

A majority of Americans are in favour of gun control.

57% of Americans surveyed said they wanted stricter gun laws - although this fell last year - according to polling by Gallup.

32% said the laws should remain the same, while 10% of people surveyed said they should be "made less strict".

Gun control opinion

The issue is extremely divisive, falling largely along party lines.

"Democrats are nearly unanimous in their support for stricter gun laws," another Gallup study noted, with nearly 91% in favour of stricter gun laws.

Only 24% Republicans, on the other hand, agreed with the same statement, along with 45% of Independent voters.

Some states have taken steps to ban or strictly regulate ownership of assault weapons. Laws vary by state but California, for example, has banned ownership of assault weapons with limited exceptions.

Map showing states with assault weapon bans - California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York & Washington DC, and those with restrictions Minnesota, Virginia and Washington, March 2023

Some controls are widely supported by people across the political divide - such as restrictions governing the sale of guns to people who are mentally ill or on "watch" lists.

Who opposes gun control?

Despite years of financial woes and internal strife, the National Rifle Association (NRA) remains the most powerful gun lobby in the United States, with a substantial budget to influence members of Congress on gun policy.

Over the last several election cycles, it, and other organisations, have consistently spent more on pro-gun rights messaging than their rivals in the gun control lobby.

A line chart showing the amount spent per year by gun rights groups and gun control groups on federal lobbying in the US from 2008 to 2022. Gun rights groups have consistently spent more than double what gun control groups have. Gun rights spending peaked in 2013 at just under $20m - gun control groups spent just under $3m in the same year. In 2022, gun rights groups spent $13m, while their opponents spent $2.3m.

A number of states have also gone as far as to largely eliminate restrictions on who can carry a gun. In June 2021, for example, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law a "permitless carry bill" that allows the state's residents to carry handguns without a licence or training.

Similarly, in April last year Georgia became the 25th in the nation to eliminate the need for a permit to conceal or openly carry a firearm. The law means any citizen of that state has the right to carry a firearm without a licence or a permit.

The law was backed by the NRA, and leaders within the organisation called the move "a monumental moment for the Second Amendment".
Marcia Gay Harden is standing up for her queer children and LGBTQ people everywhere.

The Oscar-winning actor criticized the waves of discriminatory legislation sweeping the country while opening up about her own family during the Drag Isnt Dangerous telethon on Sunday.

What drives me is because its right and whats happening right now is wrong, Harden told co-host Adam Shankman, the director of 2007s Hairspray, about her activism.

What drives me is  my children are all queer. My eldest child is nonbinary. My son is gay. My youngest is fluid. And you know, they are my kids and they teach me every day.

The thespian shares children Eulala Scheel, 24, Julitta Dee Harden Scheel and Hudson Harden Scheel, both 19, with ex husband Thaddaeus Scheel.

Adam Shankman and Marcia Gay Harden talk during the

Adam Shankman and Marcia Gay Harden talk during the "Drag Isn't Dangerous" telethon on May 7, 2023. (Photo by Araya Doheny/Getty Images)

Harden went on to dismiss ongoing anti-LGBTQ panic, telling Shankman, This is so fear-based and its spreading that kind of fear and hatred among other people. I believe this country will fight that.

Fellow actor Charlize Theron made a pretaped appearance at the fundraiser, which brought in over $540,000 of donations for the charities GLAAD, GLSEN, Headcount, Black Queer Town Hall, The ACLU Drag Defense Fund, Trans Justice Funding Project and Victory Fund.

We love you queens. Were in your corner and weve got you, and I will fuck anybody up whos trying to fuck with anything with you guys, Theron, the parent of a transgender daughter, said.

Pointing to the real threat of gun violence in America, the Fast X actor added, There are so many things hurting and really killing our kids and we all know what Im talking about right now, and it aint no drag queen  because if youve ever seen a drag queen lip sync for her life, it only makes you happier, it only make you love more, it makes you a better person.

According to the ACLU, 474 pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislation have been introduced during the 2023 legislative session.

Related...
Mariupol, temporarily occupied by the Russians, is going to face a problem with drinking water in the summer.

Source: Petro Andriushchenko, the advisor to the mayor of Mariupol

Details: Andriushchenko states that the occupiers are trying to connect the two reservoirs, which could cause an environmental disaster in the city.

As Andriushchenko explains, the city receives water from the reserve water storage in Staryi Krym, which is filled through the Kalchyk stream. However, the Russians have blocked it inside the city, which has turned the river "into a swamp."

Mariupols reservoir. Photo by Petro Andriushchenko

"So the water [supply] situation is terrible. In the summer, in the heat of the day, the water level will not be enough to supply Mariupol with water even at the minimum, and the blocked Kalchyk (local river  ed.) will not allow the reservoir to recover," predicts Petro Andriushchenko.

According to him, in order to solve the water problem, the occupiers supposedly "found" the documents of the city council's project for a new water pipeline and decided to "recklessly implement it."

The mayor's adviser has added that the project included a water treatment plant and the construction of a water intake from two reservoirs, Staryi Krym and Pavlopil.

This is how the Russians see the implementation of the plan. Map by Petro Andriushchenko

"And now the Russians have decided to combine these two reservoirs. As if this would solve something. Maybe it would solve it, but there is a small issue. The Pavlopil reservoir should be replenished through Kalmius, provided that the Siverskyi Donets canal is working. But it is not working (which is why there is no water in Donetsk)," said the mayor's adviser.

According to Andriushchenko, if the occupiers implement their plan, it could destroy two reservoirs and all the flora and fauna around them at the same time.

Last summer, in Mariupol, Russians distributed water with faecal bacteria to local residents for drinking.

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Tetiana Denysenko, journalist of UP.Zhyttia

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!






Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) called on Monday for the public release of security camera footage taken during the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in February granted access to some 44,000 hours of footage to then-Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Carlson aired some clips in March and promised to air more of the unseen footage. Carlson since has parted ways with Fox News.

A lot of people are asking me when we are going to release the J6 video tapes. Well Im wondering the very same thing and waiting too, Greene tweeted on Monday.

The American people paid for the video cameras that are installed all over the Capitol building that they also pay for. And most of all the riot scenes have been shown repeatedly a gazillion times in loop for over two years anyways. It wont give the Democrats anything new, but it might give us all something new, she added.

Greene pointed to McCarthys decision to release footage to Carlson, saying the rest of the footage should now be released.

We need to release the J6 tapes to a public on line source so that everyone knows what did and didnt happen, we need to restore fair justice, and America can move on, she said.

Carlson, who described the footage as mostly peaceful chaos, was faced with bipartisan outrage after he aired the footage of the day.

McCarthy also faced questions about whether his actions undermined security efforts after Capitol Police said they only reviewed one clip aired by Carlson.

The speaker previously said other media organizations eventually would get access to review the tapes. A coalition of news organizations filed a lawsuit last month demanding access to the surveillance footage.

The Hill has reached out to McCarthys office for comment on Greenes tweet.

Greene repeatedly demanded the release of the Jan. 6 tapes in the months following the attack, but she has been quieter on the issue since helping McCarthy win the speakers gavel.

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She tweeted in July 2021 that the Justice Department should release all 14,000 hours of tapes that the tax payers already payed for instead of creating a controlled view of Jan 6 that cost $6.1 million taxpayer dollars.

And she repeated the call in June 2022, ahead of the initial prime-time hearing held by the now-disbanded House Select Committee on Jan. 6.

The American people deserve to know exactly what happened on January 6th, 2021. That wont happen with the cut and paste Hollywood production were going to see tonight. Release all the tapes, let the American people know the truth! she tweeted at the time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Who doesnt like talking about their pets?

The top three topics of conversation in the U.S., as per Preply, a language tutoring app, are the weather, weekend plans and work. But pets fit in there, too. Especially as icebreakers when broaching difficult topics like end-of-life legislation, protecting children from sexual assault or how to direct more state funding to local projects.

Wyatt, the feline adopted by Rep. David LeBoeuf. D-Worcester, loves to interrupt Zoom meetings

In Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has a special website designed just that way: Statehouse Pets. On it are collected pictures and bios of many of the pets that share living quarters with state legislators, staff members and other state employees.

Its a nice icebreaker for people, said Kara Holmquist, the director of advocacy at the MSPCA and the curator of the website.

The organization participates in a Lobby Day every year at the Statehouse on Beacon Hill where they review animal-friendly legislation, visit with lawmakers and, yes, talk about pets.

Its so much fun to hear about their pets, Holmquist said.

Legislators, staff, state employees love their pets

There are cats and dogs, ducks and chickens, and more recently Ted, a Russian tortoise belonging to Lizzie Donovan Noonan, counsel for the Joint Committee on Public Service, was added to the page, along with the two cats Dupont (Dewey) and Declan, who also live with Donovan Noonan.

The website serves as a way for those residents who care about animals to find common ground with legislators.

They have something to talk about, Holmquist said, adding that while many Massachusetts residents want to help animals, they may be unsure of how to approach legislators. This make legislators more approachable, makes it easy to start discussions. Its not controversial.

In Worcester, several legislators have animals; some have multiple animals: Sen. Ryan Fattman, R-Webster, has two dogs, Millie and a new puppy, Maggie. The family cat, Boots, is now living his best life with friends after the birth of their youngest child.

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LeBoeuf, who grew up with dogs but cant have one in his apartment, adopted a rescue cat, Wyatt, on a visit to a shelter.

I went on a rescue day event, and I thought I cant leave this little one here, LeBoeuf said of his new companion. He has spent the last three years learning the differences between cats and dogs personality-wise and enjoying Wyatts company. The feline enjoys preening on Zoom calls, knocking over cups and chasing lasers.

When hes hungry in the morning and I dont feed him exactly at 7:30 a.m., hell come sit on my chest until I feed him, LeBoeuf said.

The legislator endorsed the Beagle Bill, a measure that allows for the adoption of laboratory animals, many of them beagles, when their service time at the states many laboratories ends, and is a staunch advocate for prohibiting feline declawing.

Advocating for animals: Ollie's Law

Next on the MSPCA advocacy agenda is Ollies Law, presented by Sen. Mark Montigny, D-New Bedford, and Rep. Brian Ashe, D-Longmeadow. The bill was prompted by the death in 2020 of Ollie, a Labradoodle puppy at a doggy day care facility in Longmeadow. The dog was injured in a dogfight.

Ollies Law would address the lack of oversight at commercial kennels, pet boarding facilities and pet day care centers in Massachusetts.

Currently licensed on a municipal basis, the basic requirement is that a kennel must be maintained in a sanitary and humane manner, according to a recap of the proposed legislation on the MSPCA website.

If passed, Ollies Law would standardize licensing requirements, set fines and fees for violations and ensure injuries, both human and animal, are reported and investigated in a timely manner. Violations and findings of fault would be posted in a way to enable consumers to make informed decisions about where to board their pets.

The state Department of Agricultural Resources would be tasked with oversight of the facilities. This would ensure that all animal control officers are fully informed of their duties and recognize their authority to revoke licenses. The oversight would guarantee clear language for guidance on the maximum number of animals allowed at a facility determined by the licensing municipality. It would also ensure that animals are attended to, and their health and safety is secured.

"Pets are family who provide boundless love and affection that we are lucky to receive," said Montigny. "For this reason, it is critical that we ensure all businesses entrusted with the care of our family adhere to proper health and safety protocols no matter what town they operate in across the commonwealth. Too often, we have heard devastating stories of pets like Ollie who have been injured or killed due to negligent care. These people have no place caring for such precious creatures, and it's time that we implement consistent standards across Massachusetts."

The MSPCA has scheduled an advocacy day May 17 to rally for Ollies Law. And an adoption day is not out of the question.

It cant be too hot or too cold, Holmquist said, explaining that only service animals are allowed in the Statehouse. But if we have an adoption day, we usually hold it outside in Ashburton Park.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Webpage showcases pets living with Massachusetts lawmakers, staff
A gunman clad in black body armour and armed with an AR-15-style assault rifle opened fire at a Texas mall on Saturday, killing eight people and injuring seven others.

The suspect was identified by the Texas Department of Public Safety as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, a security guard and US Army veteran.

Dashcam video circulating on social media appeared to show the gunman getting out of a grey sedan just outside the entrance of the Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling centre on the outskirts of Dallas, and immediately opening fire on passersby in the carpark.

An Allen Police Department officer attending an unrelated call at the mall heard the gunfire and neutralised the suspect, police said.

What we know about the suspect

Mauricio Garcia, 33, was identified on Sunday as the gunman who killed eight innocent shoppers and mall staff members in Saturdays horror attack.

Garcia drove to the mall with several weapons and opened fire as soon as he stepped out of his vehicle. An AR-15 rifle and a handgun were reportedly found on him and in his car.

Police have not released a possible motive, but investigators are looking into Garcias possible neo-Nazi and white supremacist beliefs.

Garcia was wearing black body armour and a patch on his chest that suggested he may have harboured extremist ideologies, law enforcement sources told The Washington Post.

A girl runs as other shoppers leave with their hands up after a mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas (via REUTERS)

The patch read RWDS, which stands for Right Wing Death Squad, a popular phrase among far-right extremists.

Police sources told NBC News that Garcia had posted and engaged with neo-Nazi and white supremacist content online.

His accounts appear to have since been taken down.

Garcia served in the US Army in 2008 but was removed due to concerns around his mental health, sources told WFAA.

After that, he became a security guard, most recently working for an aluminum supply company.

Through his work as a security guard, Garcia underwent firearms proficiency training as recently as 2018, according to the Texas Online Private Security database.

Story continues

The online records show that he began training in 2015 before becoming a commissioned security officer in April 2016.

His licence expired in April 2020.

During that time, he is listed as working for three security companies: Ruiz Protective Service, Statewide Patrol and Verified Response Security & Investigations.

Police officer on the scene of the mall shooting (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

It is unclear why his security guard licence was suspended.

It is unclear if he had any connection to the mall where he carried out Saturdays rampage.

Private security guards are vetted and are barred from gaining a license if they have convictions for crimes such as assault or sexual offenses, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

According to CBS News reporter JD Miles, Garcia was a security guard with no serious criminal record.

At the time of the shooting, Garcia had reportedly been living in a motel.

FBI agents raided a Dallas home where Garcia had been living with his parents for years, according to Fox News.

Officers were stationed outside the address on Sunday. The suspects family requested a translator to speak with authorities.

How the shooting unfolded

The gunman arrived at the mall just after 3.30pm local time on Saturday.

Video showed him exiting a grey sedan vehicle, dressed in black tactical gear and armed with an AR-15-style weapon before opening fire.

People gather across the street from a shopping center after a shooting Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero) (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Hundreds of shoppers could be seen trying to flee the scene on aerial footage after the gunman opened fire with an AR-15-style gun. Bodies of the victims, including several young children, were covered by sheets.

Seven people  including the suspect  were killed at the scene, Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said at a press conference on Saturday.

Nine people were transported to hospital, where two more succumbed to their injuries.

Three survivors were undergoing surgery and remained in a critical condition on Saturday night, Mr Boyd said. Four others were in a stable condition.

The injured included children as young as five, a Dallas area hospital told CNN.

The victims

As details continue to emerge about the gunman, the victims are starting to be identified.

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard at the mall, was identified by family members as one of the victims of Sundays massacre.

LaCours grandmother posted a tribute to her grandson on social media.

Christian LaCour was killed in the shooting in Allen, Texas (Facebook)

He was such a beautiful soul, she wrote. I was so proud of him and so glad I got to see him 2 weeks ago.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, an engineer who moved to the US from India, was also killed in the attack.

Thatikonda was shopping with a friend at the mall when she was shot and killed by the gunman, a family representative told WFAA.

Aishwarya Thatikonda died in the Allen mall shooting (Family photo)

Her friend was also shot and injured in the shooting and is currently in stable condition in hospital.

Thatikondas family is planning to fly her body to India where she has family.

Texas dark weekend

The mall shooting marked the start of a dark weekend for Texas.

In Brownsville, eight people were killed when an SUV slammed into a crowd of people outside a migrant shelter in the border city on Sunday afternoon.

Horrifying footage, taken from a security camera and shared by Texas Rep Henry Cuellar, shows a group of people waiting for a bus outside the citys Ozanam Center. The SUV then rams into the victims.

Seven people died before an eighth victim succumbed to their injuries in hospital later that day. At least nine others were hospitalised.

Most of the victims were Venezuelan men who had spent the night at the shelter and were boarding a bus to return to downtown Brownsville.

Officials initially said that the incident appeared to be intentional and described the driver  whose identity remains unknown  as very uncooperative.

Police on the scene of the car crash in Brownsville (AP)

Also on Sunday, one person was killed and two others were injured in a shooting on a DART train in Dallas, Texas, on Sunday  just a 30-minute drive from the mall massacre.

Gunfire broke out on board a Green Line train near Hatcher Station when two people got into an argument on Sunday afternoon, accoding to authorities.

DART police said that officers were called to reports of a shooting on the northbound train at around 4.30pm.

Officers arrived on the scene to find two people  one of them a bystander  suffering from gunshot wounds.

They were both transported to local hospitals where one of the victims was pronounced dead. The condition of the second victim  the bystander  is unknown.

A third individual was also wounded in the shooting after being struck by shrapnel and was treated at the scene, police said.

Now, DART police are searching for the suspected shooter, whose identity is unknown.
As of 8 May, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine is unable to predict whether Russia will escalate the situation in Ukraine on 9 May, when it celebrates Victory Day in World War II.

Source: Hanna Maliar, Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine, on Telegram

Quote: "Whether there will be an escalation on 9 May is impossible to confirm or deny 100%.

There will always be a possibility of an escalation, regardless of the date, as long as the war continues.

It is true that Russians love dates and historical parallels. But there have already been many historical and festive dates on which they have not escalated. So there may or may not be an escalation. We must always be prepared for defence and the enemy's insidiousness."

Background: In 2022, Ukrainians feared an escalation of the situation and massive Russian attacks on Ukraine on 9 May, but this did not happen that day.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
On the night of 7-8 May, the Russian occupiers attacked Ukraine with drones, and a residential building in Kyiv was damaged by debris.

Source: Suspilne [Ukraines national public broadcaster]; Vitalii Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv, on Telegram

Quote from Klitschko: "I visited a high-rise building that was hit by the wreckage of a Russian drone at night. Last night, the barbarians launched their most massive attack with kamikaze drones. They launched almost 60 Shaheds. 36 of them were flying towards the capital. All were shot down by air defence forces.

However, the wreckage of several drones damaged some public facilities and a residential multi-storey building in the Sviatoshynskyi district."

Details: Five people have been injured in the attack in two districts of Kyiv. Three of them were injured in a high-rise building. Two of the victims were hospitalised, and one of them underwent surgery.

Klitschko added that the city authorities will provide the necessary assistance to the victims and will promptly restore the damaged residential building following the findings of a special commission.

Background:

Several buildings across different parts of Kyiv were damaged in a nighttime Russian drone attack.

Russian strategic aircraft deployed Kh-22 missiles to carry out a missile strike on Odesa Oblast on the night of 78 May, causing several fires.

Ukraines defenders destroyed all 35 Shahed drones launched at Ukraine overnight. The Air Force clarified that the Russian forces launched 35 attack drones at Kyiv Oblast.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Dmitry Medvedev believes that the murder can be framed as an

A car belonging to Prilepin exploded in a likely car bombing near the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod on May 6. The cars driver, who was also serving as the propagandists bodyguard, died at the scene, while Prilepin himself was seriously injured.

Read also: Former DNR fighter detained as part of propagandist Prilepins car bombing

Ukrainian citizen Oleksandr Permyakov was detained by Russian authorities on suspicion of attempting to assassinate Prilepin.

At the same time, he is believed to have fought on the side of the Donetsk puppet authority against the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2014-2015, after which he fled to Russia.

In turn, Medvedev quite clearly hinted that, despite the moratorium on the death penalty in force in Russia, Permyakov will eventually be taken out after the verdict.

Read also: Who inspired Russias invasion of Ukraine?

Events and accidents sometimes happen even to those sentenced to life imprisonment (under a moratorium on execution), Medvedev said.

And then the long sentence is quickly interrupted by natural causes due to the prisoners death. And its also very educational for the new bastards hired to kill.

Prilepin is a Russian propagandist, pro-war writer, and politician. He is a member of the Political Council of the A Just Russia (aka Fair Russia) Party. He has also held a number of positions in the Donbas occupation authorities, including as an adviser to the now-killed leader of the Donetsk puppet authorities, Alexander Zakharchenko, in 2015 and as a deputy commander of a special forces battalion for personnel management in occupied Donetsk from 2016-2018.

Read also: Medvedev threatens ICC with hypersonic missile strike over Putin arrest warrant

He is on the list of people who pose a threat to the national security of 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
The Memphis City Council is wading into a lawsuit over residency for Memphis mayoral candidates, filing a "cross complaint" that says a 1996 ordinance ended a five-year residency requirement for mayor.

That contradicts the position held by Memphis City Government as described last week by Jennifer Sink, the city's chief legal officer, and another attorney.

"No administrative officer of the City, including the Mayor, has any legal authority under the Tennessee constitution, under any Tennessee statute or under any provision of the City's Charter to amend, modify or repeal any duly adopted provision of the City's Home Rule Charter ... except by order of a court of competent jurisdiction in a timely and proper legal action brought in any such court," reads the cross complaint, which was filed Monday.

The defendants in the City Council's cross complaint are Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and the Shelby County Election Commission.

Last week, Chancellor JoeDae Jenkins made the city of Memphis a party to the lawsuit, which was filed by mayoral candidates Floyd Bonner and Van Turner against the Shelby County Election Commission.

Bonner and Turner have argued that a five-year residency requirement should no longer be in effect for the position of mayor. It was only after an attorney for the city said that an opinion by attorney Robert Meyers was the official position of the city that Jenkins brought the city into the case. That opinion by Meyers says that the five-year requirement remains in effect.

The City Council's cross complaint argues that the Meyers opinion is incorrect.

City Council attorney Allan Wade speaks Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020, during a Memphis City Council meeting at City Hall.

Allan Wade, an attorney for the Memphis City Council who also has represented the Shelby County Election Commission in other matters, has written two separate opinions saying the five-year residency requirement was ended due to a 1996 ballot referendum. Wade is representing the City Council in this matter.

The residency lawsuit was a topic of a closed-door attorney-client session at City Council last week. No public discussion was held on the matter.

Story continues

"The city was sued. We have to defend," Wade told The Commercial Appeal.

Tannera Gibson, an attorney for the city, said city attorneys do not see how the City Council can justify its cross complaint since the city attorney, through the administrative branch, is tasked with handling litigation against the city.

They filed a cross complaint as a non-party, Gibson said. We dont understand the authority upon which they injected themselves into this particular case.

Later Monday, Jenkins denied a motion to intervene by a third mayoral candidate, businessman JW Gibson, who had argued that the five-year residency requirement should be enforced.

On Friday, Memphis City Councilman JB Smiley also filed his own motion to intervene. Wade said he would not be pursuing that motion, since the cross complaint by the City Council covered Smiley's concerns.

Council Chairman Martavius Jones said the position of the council, argued by Wade, is that anything in the charter originates from the legislative side, the council, not the administration.

So the council intervening is to make sure that the councils position is represented as well, even though it might be conflicting language as it relates to what the charter says, we dont want the administration to be the only voice speaking for the city particularly when it's talking about what may be legislative functions, Jones said.

Jones said he disagrees with Wades position that the five-year residency requirement is no longer in effect, and that he believes the majority of council members also disagree.

However, the place where the question will be answered is in court, he said.

Katherine Burgess covers government and religion. She can be reached at katherine.burgess@commercialappeal.com or followed on Twitter @kathsburgess.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis City Council argues against 5-year residency requirement
PHOENIX (AP)  The Washington Nationals rallied in the ninth inning to take the lead for the second straight game.

This one ended in elation instead of heartbreak.

Joey Meneses hit a three-run homer in the ninth inning off Miguel Castro and had four RBIs, lifting the Washington Nationals to a 9-8 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday.

These guys got a bunch of heart and theyre playing together and they feel like they never out of it, Nationals manager Dave Martinez said. Today is another good example that. They fought back and put up some big numbers again today.

The Nationals rallied from a four-run deficit to take the lead in the ninth inning Saturday night, only to lose 8-7 when the Diamondbacks rallied in the bottom half.

Arizona took an 8-6 lead into the ninth inning on Sunday behind Lourdes Gurriel Jr.'s two homers and four RBIs.

Luis Garcia opened the ninth inning with a double off Castro (1-1) and Keibert Ruiz followed with a single. Meneses turned quickly on a pitch by Castro and sent it into the seats in left to put the Nationals ahead.

Erasmo Ramirez (2-1) didn't allow a baserunner in 1 1/3 innings and Hunter Harvey worked around a walk in ninth for his first save since 2019 at Double-A Bowie to prevent Arizona's first sweep of the Nationals since 2009.

These kinds of victories help us, give us confidence in a team to keep battling, keep struggling and have great at-bats until the end, Meneses said through a translator. Theres an opportunity yesterday we were able to do that and unfortunately, we didnt come out with the victory. But I think that everyone board has a team and it just shows us that we just keep battling the whole game.

The Diamondbacks appeared to be in control after another big game from Gurriel. He had four hits, including the tying homer in the ninth inning Saturday night and picked up where he left off, hitting a solo shot off Trevor Williams in second inning.

Gurriel followed with a three-run shot off Andres Machado in the fifth and Christian Walker also homered for Arizona.

Story continues

The Diamondbacks just couldn't hold it.

Washington trailed by four runs after six innings, cutting the lead to 7-5 against Kevin Ginkel on Ruizs fielders choice and Meneses run-scoring single. Another Washington run came in when Ildemaro Vargas hit into a double play in the eighth.

Needing three outs, the Diamondbacks gave up three runs and went down quietly in the ninth to see victory snatched from them after doing it to the Nationals the night before.

HARVEY'S TIME

Harvey was a first-round draft pick by Baltimore in 2013, but had his career derailed by a string of injuries.

Picked up by the Nationals on a waiver claim, the right-hander finally seems to be healthy and is showing off his potential. By picking up his first big league save against Arizona, he and his father Bryan become the ninth father-son duo in major league history to record saves.

Im proud of him, Martinez said. He went through a lot of ordeal just getting healthy and were going try to keep hit healthy. When hes healthy, you see what he can do.

TRAINERS ROOM

Nationals: CF Victor Robles was out of the lineup after injuring his back on a slide in the fourth inning Saturday night. Martinez said after the game he will be placed on the injured list so he has time to recover. ... 3B Jeimer Candelario was out of the lineup for the second straight game after being hospitalized briefly for dehydration following Fridays game. He's expected to start Monday. ... The Nationals reinstated INF Carter Kieboom from the 10-day injured list and optioned him to Triple-A Rochester.

UP NEXT

Nationals: RHP Jake Irvin (0-0, 2.08 ERA) makes his second big league start Monday to kick off a three-game series at San Francisco.

Diamondbacks: RHP Zac Gallen (4-1, 2.53) is 2-0 with a 1.53 ERA in two career starts against Miami heading into the opener of a three-game series against the Marlins on Monday.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
A total of 64 people were arrested ahead of the Coronation for a range of alleged offences - NIKLAS HALLE'N/AFP

The Metropolitan Police has expressed regret that six anti-monarchy protesters from the Republic campaign group were arrested ahead of the Kings Coronation, after deciding no charges will be brought against them.

Scotland Yard released a lengthy statement on Monday explaining why officers arrested the Republic protesters ahead of the event.

It confirmed that new powers under the Public Order Act were used to detain the protesters.

The force said it believed items found alongside a large number of placards could be used as lock on devices.

The investigation team have now fully examined the items seized and reviewed the full circumstances of the arrest, a statement added.

Those arrested stated the items would be used to secure their placards, and the investigation has been unable to prove intent to use them to lock on and disrupt the event.

This evening all six have had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken. We regret that those six people arrested were unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route.

Graham Smith, Republic's chief executive, demanded a full inquiry on Monday into who authorised the arrests that prevented the group expressing their dissent during the disgraceful episode.

He told PA news agency that a chief inspector and two other officers from the Met apologised to him personally at his home in Reading.

Protesters accused police of 'repeatedly lying'

It came after the Republican protesters arrested accused the Metropolitan Police of repeatedly lying about allowing the group to hold a peaceful demonstration.

Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchist group Republic, said they had spent four months holding meetings with the police to agree plans for a protest in Trafalgar Square.

But he and other members of the group were among 64 people arrested ahead of the Coronation for a range of alleged offences including going equipped to lock on and conspiracy to cause public nuisance.

Story continues

Mr Smith accused the Met of lying to Republic and said it was clear the force never had any intention of allowing a peaceful protest to take place.

Explaining what the group had been planning for the Coronation, Mr Smith told Radio 4s Today Programme: We intended to be in large numbers in Trafalgar Square near the procession route, as well as having smaller groups along the procession route.

We were very clear with the Metropolitan Police about that over the last four months and they repeatedly said, right up until Friday, that they had no concerns about our protest plans.

They were well aware of what we were going to do and that they would engage with us and not disrupt what we were going to do, so they have repeatedly lied about their intentions and I believe they had every intention of arresting us prior to doing so.

Mr Smith said he and his fellow protesters had been held for 16 hours before being released.

He went on: They also said they had intelligence which was untrue if they did have intelligence their intelligence officers were either lying or incompetent.

Mr Smith added: They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and it's my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

There were also suggestions on social media that the Met may have used information gathered during meetings with the protest groups to pre-emptively arrest them, with one commentator suggesting if that were the case it represented desperately grave times ahead for event safety planning.

But Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist, denied that was the case insisting that did not happen.

Republic supporter holds a banner at a protest during the Coronation on Saturday - Guy Smallman/Getty Images Europe

The Mets handling of protesters on the day of the Coronation is likely to come in for further scrutiny by the London Assemblys Policing and Crime Committee.

Concern has been raised over the apparent arrest of three members of Westminster city councils Night Stars safety team, which offers advice to women on nights out and hands out rape alarms as part of their work.

The Green Partys Caroline Russell, who chairs the Police and Crime Committee, said: I think it's really worrying that these arrests have happened.

It felt like for someone who was trying to protest, and trying to do it by the book, it was very difficult to understand what the rules were.

It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because they'd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms. It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Met's safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

The Police and Crime Committee, we question the mayor, Mopac (Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime) and the Metropolitan Police, we meet every fortnight, so of course we will be questioning this because I'm sure members of all parties will want to have their questions answered.

Sadiq Khan has asked for urgent clarity from the Met police over its handling of the arrests.

But Lucy Frazer, the Culture Secretary, has insisted the police got the correct balance between allowing protests and preventing disruption to the Coronation.

PM backs police

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister, has backed the Met Polices approach as he praised the dazzling spectacle of the Coronation.

He said at a lunch club in Hertfordshire, where he was taking part in The Big Help Out, he said: The police are operationally independent of Government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best.

Actually Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely.

That was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

He added: No other country in the world could put on such a dazzling spectacle and it was a proud expression of our history, our culture, our tradition and also a reflection of the modern character of our country.

It was deeply moving to be in the Coronation service and incredibly uplifting and it was an experience I think nobody will forget for the rest of their lives.

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Stock photo of Meta sign



Meta is flexing its power over Canadian lawmakers with threats to cut off the countrys news access on Facebook and Instagram.

Facebook and Instagram could soon be news-free for our neighbors to the north. Meta has once again said it would rather scrap news links on its platforms in Canada than comply with pending legislation.



Canadas Online News Act, a bill officially called C-18, would force online platforms to pay publishers for their content. In other words: the legislation would make sites like Facebook and Google pay news outlets like Gizmodo a fee for content linked or shared on their platforms. Tech corporations could end up having to pay hundreds of millions of dollars annually to news publishers, under the act. The legislation has passed through House of Commons and is currently being considered in the Senates Committee on Transport and Communications. For obvious reasons, tech companies arent on board with the potential policy.

Read more

Google and Meta alike have been doing their best to protest the bill through lobbying, public statements, and other measures. Google, for instance, began restricting news links in search results for a small percentage of Canadian users in February, during a test that lasted for five weeks. Previously, Meta assured Canadian lawmakers that, if C-18 were to pass, Facebook and Instagram in the country would no longer support news links.

Now, the company has doubled down on that stance in a lengthy public statement from Nick Clegg, Metas president of global affairs and former U.K. politician, published Monday.

The Online News Act is based on a fundamentally flawed premise. Meta does not benefit unfairly from people sharing links to news content on our platform. The reverse is true, the exec wrote in the blog post. Ultimately, this legislation puts Meta in an invidious position. In order to comply, we have to either operate in a flawed and unfair regulatory environment, or we have to end the availability of news content in Canada. With a heavy heart we choose the latter. As the Minister of Canadian Heritage has said, this is a business decision, Clegg added.

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The statement outlined Metas reasoning behind its stancereiterating many of the arguments the company has made before. Namely, that news sites need Facebook and Instagram, not the other way around. Clegg repeated claims that just a tiny proportion (about 3%) of Facebook Feed content is made up of news links. Conversely Meta says it has generated more than $230 million in free marketing for news publishers.

According to Meta, Cleggs statement was initially supposed to be delivered as part of a Canadian Senate committee hearing on Monday. However, after the hearings name was changed to Tech Giants Current and Ongoing Use of Intimidation and Subversion Tactics to Evade Regulation in Canada and Across the World, Clegg backed out and Meta opted to send other representatives in his place. Kevin Chan, the companys global policy director, and Rachel Curran, Metas public policy head for Canada, spoke before the Senate committee instead.

During the meeting, Curran told legislators that Meta is already working on a content blocking strategy for news links in Canada. Contrary to the chaos the company sowed in Australia in 2021, Curran claimed, this time news removal would be careful and transparent, according to a report from the CBC. It is absolutely our intention to not make the same errors in Canada that we made in Australia, the Meta exec said.

Canada is not the first country to float forcing social media platforms and other sites to pay news publishers for hosting their content. Previously, Australian lawmakers were considering a similar bill. In response, Meta blocked news on its platforms countrywide. The move didnt just end up impacting publishers, it also tanked emergency alert networksremoving things like hospital and fire service pages. Though Curran called that result an error during Mondays meeting, a 2022 report from the Wall Street Journal determined the havoc may have been an intentional move to sway negotiations.

Regardless of whether or not it was deliberate, the Australian news block test had the desired outcome for Meta and its peers. Australia passed a much watered down version of its legislation. If Meta and Google keep forging ahead in Canada, chances are theyll be able to strong-arm their way to reduced regulations there too.

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Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador slammed Floridas new anti-immigration bill on Monday, calling it immoral and politicking after lawmakers passed a bill last week that gives Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis $12 million for migrant transports.

Why does [DeSantis] have to take advantage of peoples pain, of migrants pain, of peoples need for political gain, Lopez Obrador said at a press conference. "This is immoral. This is politicking."

The measure will guarantee $12 million for a controversial program DeSantis has used to fly migrants from Texas to Marthas Vineyard.

Now I found out that the Florida governor  imagine, Florida, which is full of migrants  is taking repressive, inhumane measures against migrants in Florida because he wants to be a candidate, Lopez Obrador said. Cant he not make another proposal to convince people?

DeSantis is expected to announce a run for president in the coming weeks.

The legislation lawmakers passed last week would require medium-sized and large employers to use the federal E-Verify system to check the status of new employees and mandates hospitals to ask patients about their legal status.

The bill, SB 1718, will also allow authorities to charge someone with human trafficking if they knowingly transport an undocumented migrant across state lines. It would also prohibit an undocumented immigrant from driving a car even if they have a drivers license from another state.

Lopez Obrador said that he has a call planned tomorrow with President Joe Biden to discuss migration and the fentanyl crisis.

We will talk about our cooperation, which is very good, very, very good, and we will keep it that way," Lopez Obrador said.

Lopez Obradors comments come as GOP governors continue to send migrants to Democratic-led states. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Monday that Texas would bus thousands more migrants in the coming days. On April 30, Mayor Lori Lightfoot urged Abbott to stop shipping busloads of migrants to Chicago, saying the city does not have the resources to absorb more. New York City Mayor Eric Adams has also been critical of Biden for failing the city on immigration.



Story continues

On Christmas Eve, three buses of migrant families arrived from Texas near the home of Vice President Kamala Harris in record-setting cold.

Then, in an inhumane, vulgar and vile way, they started to take migrants while it was cold to New York, to Washington, to the vice presidents house," Lopez Obrador said. The Republicans did this  something that degrades them from a moral, human point of view.

Carmen Paun contributed to this report.
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexico's Supreme Court on Monday struck down part of an electoral overhaul championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador that curbs the power of the country's elections authority, which the leftist leader has repeatedly attacked.

A separate part of the legislative reform, which slashes the budget and staffing at the National Electoral Institute (INE), is still being evaluated by the tribunal.

Nine of the court's 11 justices voted to invalidate the reform's push to rein in the INE's ability to police political communications, the court announced on Twitter.

The justices ruled that "serious violations in legislative procedure" had taken place in passing the measure, it said.

In March, the court temporarily suspended other parts of the overhaul, citing violations of citizens' political rights.

Lopez Obrador says he was twice robbed of the presidency before he won by a landslide in the 2018 election, and argues the INE is too expensive and biased in favor of his opponents.

Critics argue the electoral shake-up really aims to cede power to state and local officials, many of whom are currently affiliated with Lopez Obrador's ruling MORENA party, potentially tipping the scales in its favor in the 2024 general election.

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets in February after lawmakers approved the reform, in one of the largest protests so far against Lopez Obrador's 4-1/2 year-old administration.

(Reporting by Raul Cortes Fernandez; Editing by Sandra Maler)
Migrants line up to get fed at the Opportunity Center for the Homeless in El Paso, Texas on May 3, 2023. Hundreds of migrants are seeking refuge at the homeless center.

Border communities such as El Paso have long been on the frontlines of immigration, often leading the response by helping provide shelter and support for vulnerable migrants. For the last several years, historic numbers of people from all over the world fleeing war, poverty, persecution, violence, and so much more have left their homes in search of a better life. This mass displacement has impacted a number of countries in the Western Hemisphere, including our own, and El Paso has been one of the American communities most impacted by the number of arriving refugees.

The situation  already significantly challenging  will become even more so in the coming days, weeks, and possibly months, as the federal government ends its use of Title 42, the pandemic-era rapid expulsion policy. The growing number of migrants arriving daily in El Paso has overwhelmed our federal workforce and shelter system and has strained our local governments. And while this has become a significant test of our resources, I hope it does not also test the humanity and compassion El Paso has always shown.

Thats not to say the situation isnt frustrating and unsettling.

More: What is Title 42, when does policy expire and how does it impact border? What to know

We all want and deserve safety

Its distressing to see so many people, including families and children, sleeping outside Sacred Heart Church and the Opportunity Center in south El Paso, and I know lower valley neighborhoods are alarmed by unknown individuals coming through their property. We all want and deserve safety and security in our community and at our border, which can be achieved through a well-managed and responsive immigration system.

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Unfortunately, for decades, Congress and successive administrations have neglected the Western Hemisphere, and Congress has punted on modernizing our immigration laws. Shrinking legal pathways have made things worse, making asylum the most accessible immigration pathway available to most migrants. And six years of rapid expulsion policies have made migrants a lucrative business opportunity for cartels, which have harnessed social media as a powerful tool for misinformation and now have an iron grip on human trafficking.

Biden Administration working on solutions

The Biden Administration has been working on solutions to these chronic issues, collaborating with the neighboring countries of Mexico, Colombia, and Panama to tackle human smuggling and opening up some legal pathways to help take the pressure off the border. Addressing root causes of migration has also been a priority for the administration, and much of that work has begun to show success. But those investments and collaborations take time to bear fruit.

In the meantime, the Biden administration has surged personnel and unprecedented resources to assist our community. Never before has the federal government provided both advanced funding and reimbursements to governments and NGOs that assist with emergency shelter and migrant processing. The administration has also opened up processing centers in Central and South America to incentivize migrants to use legal pathways and prevent a perilous journey to the border, an effort I championed.

More: El Paso officials prepare for May 11 end of Title 42 pandemic restrictions on migrants

Sufficient resources remain key

Sufficient resources remain key in successful border management. Last year, the president requested a historic $4.9 billion for the Department of Homeland Security to hire more agents and officers, provide more technology, and increase funding for communities like ours. Unfortunately, my Republican colleagues only agreed to $2.7 billion, which the DHS warned would be inadequate to address the short-term impacts of the end of Title 42 and the long-term constraints created by a broken, outdated immigration system. Incredibly, most of my House Republican colleagues still voted against this funding altogether.

And over a week ago, House Republicans voted unanimously in favor of a bill that would cut 2,400 border agents and officers from next years budget and prevent NGOs from receiving any federal funds if they provide assistance to unlawful immigrants.

It is disingenuous to claim wanting to solve the humanitarian crisis at our border while at the same time voting against the very resources needed to address it.

Its long past time for Republicans and Democrats to collaborate on the major legislative overhaul needed by Congress to address the crisis we face today. As El Pasos representative in Congress, Ive been working on immigration reform from day one. But I recognize the need for it to be a bipartisan solution. Soon, I will be introducing bipartisan legislation that I have worked on with a Republican colleague to provide common-sense, long-term solutions, and it is my hope that Congress seizes it as an opportunity to solve the immigration challenges of today and tomorrow.

This challenging time calls for both compassion and action, and as I continue to secure federal funding for our community and work with local leaders, I am committed to getting support for the bill Ill be introducing that offers a bipartisan, meaningful solution that restores dignity to the process and people who have tried to successfully navigate a broken system for far too long.

U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, represents Congressional District 16, which includes El Paso.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Migrant crisis requires compassion, action at border: Veronica Escobar
Georgia businessman Stephen Prince said he has decided to sell his Cessna 650 after realizing the environmental impact of private jet travel. Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Georgia businessman Stephen Prince loves flying his private jet to Nebraska and the Caribbean.

But after realizing the environmental impact of flying private, he decided to sell his Cessna 650.

Private jets emit between 5 and 14 times more pollutants per passenger than commercial planes.

At one point, Stephen Prince owned three private jets. The Georgia businessman flies several times a year to a remote hunting preserve in Nebraska and the occasional Caribbean vacation.

"I will literally drive to the side of the plane, and the pilots will unload my luggage and put it in the plane, and then somebody else will go park my car," he told Insider.

For Prince, who made the majority of his fortune starting a plastic card printing business, the convenience of private aviation is one of the best perks of wealth. The experience is so amazing, he said, that he often compares the addictive nature of private jet travel to that of cocaine.

"Don't do it unless you're ready to get addicted to it," he said. "Because it is absolutely addictive."

The multi-millionaire's private jet habit first started around six years ago, when he began chartering planes and soon bought a Mitsubishi MU-2 with a friend. To avoid scheduling conflicts, the pair bought another plane of the same model and later purchased a Cessna 560, adding various partners throughout the years. Today, he's the sole owner of his last remaining aircraft, a twelve-seat Cessna 650.

Since the pandemic shut down commercial travel, more and more wealthy Americans have gotten hooked on private jets. In 2022, the number of US-based business jet flights surged, FAA data show  a trend that's concerning climate scientists and environmentalists.

According to a 2021 study from the European nongovernmental organization Transport & Energy, private aircraft produce between 5 and 14 times more pollutants per passenger than commercial planes and emit up to two metric tons of CO2 in an hour. By comparison, the average person has a carbon footprint of 4.7 metric tons per year, the International Energy Agency estimates.

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After learning about private jets' environmental impact, Prince announced he's selling his Cessna 650, which burns an average of 241 gallons of fuel per hour. Instead, he plans on flying first-class or catching a ride on his friend's plane if a commercial route isn't offered, he told Insider, adding that he's currently discussing the sale with brokers.

"I get on my plane and I'll spew ten times as much carbon into the atmosphere as I do when I get on a first-class flight on Delta or American Airlines," he told Insider. "It's just unconscionable  It's incredibly selfish."

More than 200 Extinction Rebellion and Greenpeace activists were arrested in November as they attempted to block private jets from taking off at Amsterdam's Schiphol-East Airport during a climate demonstration. Charles M Vella/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

The businessman, who declined to share his net worth but claims to be in the "top tenth of the 1%," is the vice-chair of Patriotic Millionaires, a group of wealthy Americans chaired by a former Blackrock executive who advocate for higher taxes on the rich, including themselves.

The organization co-authored a report outlining the environmental and financial consequences of private jet travel. Among the findings released this week was that Elon Musk emits 2,112 metric tons of carbon emissions last year (that's 132 times the annual carbon footprint of the average American).

With aviation accounting for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, high-profile private jet owners including Taylor Swift and Kylie Jenner have received lash back on social media for their luxurious flight habits. One Bloomberg analysis found Musk's personal jet circumnavigated the Earth 12.4 times in 2022, with the shortest flight lasting 13 minutes.

Online backlash against the industry has started to have real-life implications. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport announced in April that it will start banning private jets in 2026, following protests by Greenpeace and Extinction Rebellion that blocked aircraft traffic.

Billionaire Bill Gates, one of the world's foremost investors in sustainable technology and owner of a $40 million Bombardier BD-700 Global Express, pushed back on the characterization that private jet travel is incompatible with climate activism, noting that he purchases direct air capture carbon offsets that "far exceeds" his family's carbon footprint.

The National Business Aviation Association, a trade group that represents the private aviation industry, has pledged to to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 through initiatives such as increasing fuel efficiency, supporting green tech such as sustainable aviation fuel, and purchasing carbon offsets.

"It [flying private] is a very amazing way to live one's life," Prince said. "If you can get over the amazingly selfish attributes that it represents."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Milwaukee Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating a "critically missing" 12-year-old boy named Esdras A. Huales.

The Milwaukee Police Department is asking for the public's help in locating a "critically missing" 12-year-old boy.

Esdras A. Huales was last seen around 11:30 a.m. Sunday on foot in the 2300 block of S. 6th Street, Milwaukee Police said. He was wearing a light gray shirt, khaki pants, white sneakers and a black fanny pack.

Huales, who is Hispanic, is described as 5-foot 5-inches tall and 130 pounds with a skinny build, according to police. He has black, medium-length curly hair.

Anyone with information on Huales' whereabouts is asked to contact MPD's Sensitive Crimes Division at 414-935-7405.

"Critically missing" is a label police apply to missing persons who may be in immediate danger due to a variety of factors.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee Police ask for help locating critically missing boy, 12
Firefighters got a unique call on Saturday, May 6, in North Carolina after a cat went missing in a home.

The Town of Surf City Fire Department responded to a call that a cat had gotten stuck underneath the floorboards of a newly remodeled shower, the department said on Facebook.

We never know what kind of calls we will be paged out to. Sometimes our furry friends need our help, the fire department said.

The cat was believed to have gone into a hole in the floorboards during construction while no one was looking and the gap was sealed before anyone realized the pet was inside, the firefighters said.

Rescuers pried out the new shower and cut a big chunk to access the floorboards and help the cat, photos showed.

The cat was not harmed, the department said.

No job too big or too small, one viewer commented on the departments Facebook page. Great job.

Surf City is about 35 miles northeast of Wilmington.

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Eight-year-old Nante Niemi was found safe on Monday after going missing in the Porcupine Mountains area in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on Saturday.

UPPER PENINSULA  An 8-year-old boy who went missing on a camping trip with his family in Michigan's Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park over the weekend has been found safe.

"He has just been located and is okay," wrote Lt. Michelle Robinson with Michigan State Police in an email just after 2:45 p.m. Monday afternoon.

The boy, Nante Niemi, is an 8-year-old second-grader in the Hurley School District in Wisconsin, a school administrator confirmed in an email.

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More: 8-year-old missing in Michigan park found safe 48 hours after disappearance

He went missing in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, also called "the Porkies," which has 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, waterfalls, rivers, trails and ridges, officials said on the state park's website.

The boy was camping with his family at 1 p.m. Saturday at Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, in the western Upper Peninsula. Niemi was walking and gathering firewood for their campsite when he went missing, police said in a news release.

The district posted to Facebook on Monday with two photos showing Niemi with rescuers, stating "Words can not describe the emotions and joy the students and staff are experiencing at this moment!"

The DNR's official Facebook page for the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park shared the post, and also thanked those who assisted in the search efforts.

Dozens of agencies from both Michigan and Wisconsin took part in the multi-day search.

USA Today's Saleen Martin contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on The Sault News: Missing child found safe in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
A woman stranded in the Australian wilderness survived on wine and lollipops for five days before she was rescued, police say.

Lillian, 48, went missing on Sunday, April 30, while on a trip to Bright, Victoria Police said in a May 5 news release. When she missed her daily check-in call with family members, they became worried about her whereabouts.

Police did not provide Lillians last name, but News 9 Melbourne identified her as Lillian Ip.

After five days of extensive searches, a police helicopter spotted Ips car on a dirt road in the Mitta Mitta bushland, police said. Pilots then directed a police van to Ips location and she was rescued.

Officials said that while she was driving on Sunday, Ip took a wrong turn and hit a dead-end road. When she tried to turn her car around, her tires got stuck in mud, and she had no cellphone service to call for help.

Ip was about 40 miles from the nearest town, and health issues prevented her from walking to get help, police said. Instead, she stayed at her car and waited for help.

She was only planning a short-day trip so (she) had only taken a couple of snacks and lollies with her but no water, Wodonga Police Station Sergeant Martin Torpey said in the release. The only liquid Lillian, who doesnt drink, had with her was a bottle of wine she had bought as a gift for her mother so that got her through.

Although her car was stuck, Ip was able to stay inside and use her car for warmth, according to Torpey.

She was extremely relieved and grateful to see us and we were just as happy to see her, he said.

By Friday, Ip said she had almost given up.

My whole body shut down on Friday, she told News 9 Melbourne. Im just sitting there thinking, what am I going to do, how am I going to survive this?

Ip said she became so sure she was not going to survive that she wrote a letter to family saying goodbye.

I thought I was going to die out there, she told the news outlet.

After being rescued, Ip was taken to the hospital for observation and to be treated for dehydration, police said.

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Mitta Mitta is about 250 miles northeast of Melbourne.

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JACKSON, Miss.  Mississippi sheriff's deputies already under investigation for possible civil rights violations after allegedly placing a gun in a Black man's mouth and firing it are now also being accused of attempting to assault him and a second Black man with a sex toy during an interrogation, The Associated Press has learned.

The allegations are contained in a letter to the Justice Department written by Michael Corey Jenkins' attorney, who provided a copy to the AP. In it, attorney Malik Shabazz urges federal prosecutors to file civil rights charges against the deputies and to open a broader investigation into what he called the unconstitutional customs and practices of the entire sheriffs office.

Jenkins has accused six deputies of bursting into a home where he was visiting a friend on Jan. 24, putting a gun in his mouth, and firing after nearly two hours of torture.

This extreme case of police brutality warrants enforcement of the civil rights criminal laws on the books, Shabazz said in a statement. Sheriff Bryan Bailey and Rankin County are covering up the truth of what happened on Jan. 24, and all parties must be held accountable.

In his Monday letter to Kristen Clarke, assistant attorney general for civil rights at the Justice Department, Shabazz called for an inquiry into a pattern and practice of police misconduct and police brutality in Rankin County. Neither the sheriff's office nor an attorney representing the office responded to calls or an emailed list of questions about the allegations.

In a statement, the Justice Department said the civil rights probe into the Jenkins case is ongoing and declined to comment further.

Michael Jenkins, second from right, stand with his mother, Mary Jenkins, center, and their attorneys at a news conference Wednesday, Feb. 15. 2023, in Jackson, Miss., following his release from the hospital three weeks after being shot by sheriff's deputies. The Justice Department says it has opened a civil rights investigation into the Rankin County Sheriff's Office after its deputies wounded Jenkins during a drug raid on Jan. 24. Jenkins says he was beaten and shot in the mouth unjustifiably. The sheriff says Jenkins was charged with assaulting an officer and drug possession.

An AP investigation published in March revealed that several Rankin County deputies had been involved in at least four violent encounters with Black men since 2019 that left two dead and another with lasting injuries. Two of the men, Jenkins included, allege that deputies shoved guns into their mouths during separate encounters.

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Jenkins and his friend Eddie Terrell Parker said on the night of Jan. 24, six white Rankin County deputies suddenly came into the home where Parker was living and proceeded to handcuff and beat them. They said the deputies shocked them repeatedly with stun guns over roughly 90 minutes and, at one point, forced them to lie on their backs as the deputies poured milk over their faces.

Both Jenkins and Parker also informed agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation that deputies stripped the two naked, forced them to take a shower together, and attempted to use a sex toy on them during an hourslong interrogation, according to the letter, which was accompanied by a photo of the toy.

Jenkins, who has trouble speaking and eating because of his injuries, said one of the deputies, who has not been named publicly, fired a gun into his mouth. Medical records he shared with the AP show he was treated for a lacerated tongue and broken jaw.

Deputies have said Jenkins was shot after he pointed a gun at them. The Sheriff's Office has not answered multiple inquiries from the AP asking whether a weapon was found at the scene. Shabazz has said his client didnt have a gun.

Jenkins was charged with possessing between 2 and 10 grams of methamphetamine and aggravated assault on a police officer. Parker was charged with two misdemeanors: possession of paraphernalia and disorderly conduct. Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation told the men they didn't expect the criminal charges against them to proceed, Shabazz wrote in his letter.

Meanwhile, No deputy has been disciplined or terminated by Rankin County and all the deputies are still roaming the public at large, Shabazz wrote.

The Rankin County Sheriffs Office has not said whether any of the deputies were temporarily placed on leave following the incident.

A spokesperson for the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation declined to comment, citing an open and ongoing investigation.

Police and court records obtained by the AP show that several deputies who were accepted to the sheriffs offices Special Response Team  a tactical unit whose members receive advanced training  were involved in each of the four violent encounters with the Black men.

Such units have drawn scrutiny since the January killing of Tyre Nichols, a Black father who died days after being severely beaten by Black members of a special police team in Memphis, Tennessee. Nichols death led to a Justice Department probe of similar squads nationwide.

Shabazz said a wider investigation into the Rankin County Sheriff's Office would fit into the Justice Departments past examinations of other departments around the country, including police departments in Ferguson, Missouri and Louisville, Kentucky.

___

Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mikergoldberg.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi deputies in civil rights probe accused of sexual assault
Missouri lawmakers return to Jefferson City on Monday for the last week of the 2023 legislative session with several Republican priorities still unfinished.

And while this years session hasnt been marred by the kind of infighting among Senate Republicans seen in recent years, the future of these controversial proposals will likely depend on whether the two legislative chambers can reach agreement in the next five days.

With a 6 p.m. Friday deadline looming, the unresolved hot-button issues include bills aimed at restricting transgender individuals and their rights, plans to overhaul the states initiative petition process, school choice legislation, a bevy of tax cuts and a state takeover of St. Louis police.

Theres still some stuff that we want to accomplish, Senate President Pro Tem Caleb Rowden, a Columbia Republican, told reporters on Friday.

Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, an Independence Democrat, signaled on Friday that its unclear whether Democrats  who have filibustered against some of the Senates more hard-right policies  would be able to stop some of the GOP priorities in the sessions last week.

Democrats are here to be the adults in the room, he said Friday. Sometimes that means pulling them back from the brink. But its only a matter of time before we wont be able to stop it. Lets hope that that time is not next week.

Heres a look at which bills lawmakers will likely consider before the session wraps up.

Initiative petition

In the wake of Missouri voters approving several liberal-leaning ballot measures, both chambers of the General Assembly have passed proposals to make it harder for voters to amend the state constitution.

Legislative negotiators are hammering out a final version of the plan, which could come to a vote this week.

The Houses version would raise the threshold for voters to change the constitution from 50% to 60%. The versions passed by the Senate would require 57% of the statewide vote or 50% and a majority of the vote in at least five of the states eight congressional districts.

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Rowden told reporters on Friday that the final plan would most likely include either the increased statewide percentage or the congressional majority language  but probably not both.

I would assume it lands in one of those two places, I just dont know where as of yet, he said.

While raising the initiative petition threshold has been a Republican priority this year, Democrats, voting rights groups and defenders of the current process have framed the legislation as an attack of democracy.

Transgender restrictions

The Missouri House is expected to debate a pair of bills that would ban gender-affirming care for anyone under the age of 18 and bar transgender people from playing in womens sports.

While both chambers have passed versions of the legislation, Rowden has told reporters that the Senate will not take up any more transgender-related bills this year.

The gender-affirming care bill passed by the Senate is less restrictive than the House version and includes an expiration date for the ban on hormones and puberty blockers and grandfathers in those who were already taking treatments.

The bills are part of a nationwide push by Republicans to restrict the lives of transgender individuals and are likely to result in heated debates in the sessions final week.

If lawmakers cannot reach an agreement on the legislation, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has vowed to call them back for a special session to get them done.

School choice

Two contentious education bills are both awaiting votes in one chamber before they are approved.

One of those bills, sponsored by Rep. Brad Pollitt, a Sedalia Republican, would implement open enrollment, which allows public schools to opt into a program that lets students transfer between schools. The legislation, which still needs to be passed by the Senate, would also allow schools to cap the number of students to 3% of the previous years enrollment number.

Another bill, which includes the so-called Parents Bill of Rights, would, among other things, allow parents to review a schools curriculum and create a portal on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Educations website that shows statistics and information about schools. The legislation still needs to be passed by the House.

The original version of the bill, sponsored by Sen. Andrew Koenig, a Manchester Republican, included language prohibiting the teaching of Critical Race Theory, which is a law school-level concept that looks at how institutions perpetuate racism and is not widely taught in Missouris K-12 schools.

That language was stripped out, but the bill still includes provisions that prohibit a school employee from teaching that anyone of any race, ethnicity or national origin is superior, or that people of any race, ethnicity or national origin should bear the guilt of actions committed in the past by others.

Police, crime and guns

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardners announcement last week that she will resign June 1 has likely dampened Republican efforts to push a bill that would allow Parson to strip prosecutors of their ability to handle violent crimes. Gardner agreed to step down after cutting a deal with lawmakers who agreed to no longer pursue the legislation.

However, other provisions of the sweeping bill appear still on the table, including a Republican-backed plan for the state to take over the St. Louis force.

I still think well have a conversation about public safety, Rowden said Friday. You know, it could look a little different now because of the news from this week.

Another controversial Republican-backed bill that could be brought up in the Senate this week would allow people to carry guns 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.

Other crime-related bills include provisions that would remove the maximum salary cap for the Kansas City police chief, which has received support from members of both parties.

Tax cuts

Just months after Parson in a special session lowered the states income tax rate, Republican lawmakers are pushing to lower the rate again and cut taxes on corporations.

A bill which passed the House in March would lower the top state income tax rate from 4.95% to 4.5% starting next year. It also cuts the corporate income tax rate from 4% to 2% next year and allows for future cuts if revenue allows.

The legislation, which is expected to cost the state more than $1 billion once fully implemented, still awaits floor action in the Senate. It faces opposition from budget analysts and Democrats who say the cuts would primarily benefit wealthy Missourians and major companies.
A 9-month-old baby is in critical condition after their mother injected them with an unknown substance at a Columbus hospital, Ohio police say.

The 26-year-old woman was at Nationwide Childrens Hospital with her child on the morning of May 5, when a witness said they saw her inject a syringe into the baby, according to a Columbus police release.

While police dont know what was in the syringe, the baby required life-saving measures, and they were left in critical condition, the release said.

The infant was given CPR and taken to the intensive care unit, WBNS reported. The child also went into cardiac arrest.

The baby, who was receiving treatment, was in a hospital room with both of parents when the incident occurred, WSYX reported.

The mother was arrested on a charge of felonious assault, police said.

She has a court date scheduled for May 15, jail records show.

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Children vaccination

Credit - PhotothekGetty Images

As doctors and public health officials keep trying to persuade parents to get their kids vaccinated against childhood diseases, the entreaties dont always do much. Currently, only 69.7% of two-year-olds in the U.S. have received their full vaccine series, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventionincluding shots against measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and more. Just 10.1% of kids ages six months to four years have vaccine coverage against COVID-19.

Part of the problem is the vocal anti-vaccine movement in the U.S. and a lack of access to adequate health care services. But another issue might be that the most effective pro-vaccine communicators arent being used. According to a new study in the journal Pediatricswhich focused on COVID-19 vaccines in particular, but has implications for all vaccination campaignsif you want to persuade parents to get their children vaccinated, the most convincing arguments may come not from health-care professionals, but from other trusted parents.

In the study, the researchers assigned 898 white, Black, and Latinx parents in Chicagowhose children had not yet received COVID-19 vaccinesto one of four groups. Each group was assigned to read a different message about COVID-19 vaccinations, after which parents were asked whether they were not likely, somewhat likely, or very likely to get their child vaccinated:

One of the messages, dubbed the well-tolerated message, asked the parents to imagine that a doctor or nurse contacted them encouraging them to get their child vaccinated , adding that kids can sometimes have side effectslike body aches and fever. But these dont happen for all children and the effects last only a day or two.

The second message, dubbed safe and tested, asked the parents to imagine the same scenario, but this time the doctor or nurse stressed that the COVID-19 vaccine had been tested around the United States [and] that the vaccine is effective, and it is also as safe as other vaccines that are given to kids.

The third message, called trusted parent, asked the parents to imagine that they heard from other parents they trust saying that they had vaccinated their own children against COVID-19. Some of them say that they werent sure at first about whether the vaccine is safe for kids, the message read, but they ended up deciding it was the best way to fight COVID-19 and the vaccination went fine. They want to keep their kids protected.

The fourth group read a control message that simply told parents that the COVID-19 vaccine was available and recommended for children.

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More from TIME

The differences among the groups were marked. Overall, 37.5% of people who read the control message said afterwards that it was very likely that they would get their child vaccinated. The well-tolerated message did a little better, at 41.5%. Parents who read that the vaccine was safe and tested came in at 48.9%. But for the trusted parent scenariothe only one in which the vaccine message came from a non-medical professionalthe very likely figure was 53.3%.

This study tells us that parents really value what they hear from other parents who they trust when it comes to decisions about vaccinating their children, says Marie Heffernan, lead author of the paper and assistant professor in the department of pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. The current study was in the context of the COVID-19 vaccine for children, but we can think about this in terms of other routine childhood vaccinations as well.

Not all of the findings were uniform across the sample group. Ethnicity, in particular, made a difference. In the trusted parent scenario, for example, 61.1% of white parents said they would be very likely to vaccinate their child, compared to 51.6% of Latinx parents and 49.9% of Black parents. Each of the other scenarios saw similarly varying rates by ethnicity.

Heffernan was not surprised by those results and believes that history is at least partly to blame. We know that the historical context of medical research in the U.S. has led to distrust of medical research among communities of color, she says. This distrust is justifiable, and its important that we in pediatrics, public health, and medicine continue to work to build that trust.

The study does not conclude that pro-vaccine messages from healthcare providers are of no value at all. The relatively high scores among the people who read the safe and tested message indicates that parents do pay heed to what their doctors and nurses tell them. But it may help even more if those medical authorities have children of their own and communicate that to parents. In some cases, a healthcare provider, like a doctor or nurse, might also be a trusted parent, says Heffernan. Our results tell us that health care providers might be more effective at changing minds if they mention, for example, that they encouraged their own family members to get vaccinated.
Every morning, from the time Nelson Zimmerman started kindergarten to the day he finished high school, his mother tucked a hand-written note in his lunch: Congrats on the tryouts, shed write, or I hope you crush your AP exam or I love you to the moon.

Hed find them hiding under a granola bar or behind his ham sandwich, and he could tell if shed been rushing when the notes had a jagged edge torn from a notebook. But each one started Dear Nelson and ended Love, Mom XO XO.

Sometime around 10th grade, he started saving all those notes, one sheet at a time, collecting more than 500.

He has them still.

And when he wakes up each morning at age 24 and pulls one from the box on his nightstand, the ink still seems fresh and the message still seems fitting, even now thats shes gone.

Nelson Zimmerman keeps hundreds of his mothers notes of encouragement in a wooden box by his bedside, and he reads one each morning, along with a folder he carries containing the most special ones.

Remembering as Mothers Day approaches

This ones good, he told me last week, reading them tearfully as Mothers Day approached. Dear Nelson. This may be the last lunch I make you for junior year. Have a great last day of classes. Good luck at tryouts. Give it your all. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Love, Mom.

Donna Zimmermans feat of motherhood gets even more impressive considering Nelson has two older brothers  Michael Jr. and Tyler  and all three of them got daily lunchbox notes personalized down to who had a test in what period.

I learned all this because Michael Jr. wrote a short essay about his mothers endowment fund at Cardinal Gibbons High School, the Catholic school all three of her sons attended.

You could not leave for the day without a blessing from Mom over your head, he recalled in the essay. No meat on Fridays during Lent, often those lunchbox notes had to remind us  ha!

Both accountants, Donna and Mike Zimmerman Sr. met in 1982, when they were working for Perdue Farms in Salisbury, Maryland. By a crazy coincidence, I spent three years in Salisbury working at my first newspaper, so all three of us met chicken magnate Frank Perdue before migrating south to the Triangle.

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But at the home they built in Durham, Mike Sr. recalled Donna being on the sidelines for every one of her sons games, or eye-deep in their books before every test, or up early every school day writing her daily notes  though Dad, no slouch himself, would be upstairs ironing his boys pants.

The Zimmerman family, from left: Michael Jr., Tyler, Taylor, Donna, Mike Sr. and Nelson.

We raised a gorgeous family, he said. Dont know what the secret was. A lot of it was her.

Then she got sick.

News of her cancer came just as the pandemic settled in. With the churches shut down, she couldnt attend Mass  a rarity. And with chemotherapy making her even more vulnerable, she had to stay isolated. Sometimes, when the family got together, they ate in the garage.

A box to keep the notes in

But not long before Donna Zimmerman died in 2021, she remembered the speech Nelson gave at his high school graduation in 2017, which recalled his years of discovering notes with his sandwiches.

She knew I kept them, he told me. As she was passing away, she got a wooden box and she said, This is for you to keep the notes in. 

Nelson told me this while calling on the way home from his job in California, where he works as a flight test engineer at Edwards Air Force Base. Recalling this story got us both choked up.

My own mother in Baltimore still sends me envelopes full of news clippings she thinks Ill like, and crossword puzzles she cant finish, or pictures of me in high school, standing next to my first car.

Nelson and I are strangers beyond that phone call, and I never met his mother.

But as he read from the selection of favorite notes he keeps in a folder, which he had in his backpack when he called, we finished our conversation in a shaky voice  the kind only your mother can inspire.
An ancient Greek relief depicting a baby with its mother and grandmother. David Lees/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

As a father of three and the husband of an amazing woman, I know that one day a year is far too little to recognize everything mothers do. But my work as a scholar of ancient Greek literature has shown me how much harder it was to be a mother in antiquity.

The ancient Greeks may not have had the kind of Mothers Day celebrated in the United States and United Kingdom today  holidays that began at the turn of the 20th century and in the Middle Ages, respectively. But they did have festivals to honor motherhood, focused primarily on the goddess Hera or the earth mother Cybele  though more often than not, women did the lions share of the labor for those events.

The stories that remain of both real and mythical mothers let us know how important they were. Thanks in part to their connection to the life cycle, women in ancient Greece were both symbols of mortality and a force to humanize heroes.

Historical lives

What we know of womens lives in ancient Greece is generally not good. According to the poet Hesiod, typically dated to around 700 B.C., it was thought good practice for women to be married off to older men four or five years after puberty. Philosophical and medical traditions of the time saw women as inferior and defined by their ability to give birth, even though the popular notion was that male semen contained everything needed for a baby.

We have uncertain evidence for what lives were like after marriage. Some accounts estimate an average of six births per woman, and as many as 40% of infants may not have survived to a marriageable age, though estimates of infant mortality vary. Most historians agree that child loss was common enough in antiquity to be an expectation rather than a surprise.

A marble tombstone dated 420 B.C. Photo12/Ann Ronan Picture Library/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Information about maternal mortality is equally obscure, though demographic data suggests that at times more than 30% of mothers died from complications related to childbirth. But there is anecdotal evidence from funeral inscriptions gathered from all over antiquitys Greek-speaking world. The 21-year-old Prakso, wife of Theocritus, died in labor and left a 3-year-old behind. Kainis died from prolonged childbirth at 20, just barely experienced in life. Plauta also passed away at 20, during her second birth  but her fame sings on, as deep as her dear husbands endless grief, according to her tombstone.

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Classics students often learn that ancient Greek men did not usually spend much time with very young children, given the high rate of loss. Some ritual practices may have been responses to the precariousness of early life, such as holding a naming ceremony only on the 10th day after birth or officially registering the child as a member of the fathers family in municipal records during the first year.

As a parent, however, I am less convinced that high rates of loss led parents to be more distant. I suspect that the sense of uncertainty made children more precious to all family members and that those early years only tightened the bonds between mothers and children in particular.

Women in stories

When people think of the field I study, epic poetry, I suspect they generally think of violent male heroes and victimized women. While this image is certainly not wrong, it overlooks other ways that women, and mothers in particular, were crucial to the world of Greek poetry and myth.

Ancient Greece had a whole genre of catalog poetry  basically, lists of people and their stories in brief  dedicated to telling the stories of heroic families based on brides and mothers, which helped humanize heroes for their audiences.

A plaque from the 5th century B.C. shows Odysseus returning to Penelope, harassed by suitors. Sepia Times/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

In The Odyssey, for example, Odysseus taps into this tradition during a voyage to the underworld and tells the stories of all the heroic mothers he met among the dead  listing his own mother as one of the first. During his brief visit to speak with the dead, he learns that his mother, Anticleia, died of a broken heart over his long absence. And throughout the epic, Odysseus spends much of his time struggling to get home to Penelope: his wife, but also a protective mother of their son, Telemachus.

In The Iliad, the powerful warrior Achilles mother, Thetis, is instrumental in appealing to Zeus on his behalf when Agamemnon, the leader of the Greeks, dishonors him. Once the almost invincible fighter goes to face Hektor, Thetis laments his short life nearing its end.

A painting of Andromache intercepting Hektor before he goes off to battle, by Fernando Castelli. A. De Luca/De Agostini via Getty Images

Throughout the stories of war and honor in The Iliad, mothers remind listeners of the real consequences of war. In one arresting moment, Hektor, the prince of Troy, waits to face Achilles and likely death. Hecuba, his mother, stands on the walls of the city and bares her breast to her son, begging him to remember the care he received from her and to stay in the city to protect her.

But the one scene that has driven me to tears are the words of Hektors wife, Andromache, after she learns of her husbands death. She laments their sons future suffering as an orphan, denied a seat at other mens tables, left to wander and beg. This moment was even more heart-wrenching for ancient audiences who knew the fate of their son, Astyanax: After Troy fell to the Greeks, he was hurled from the walls of the city.

Heroic mothers helped ancient Greeks define themselves and understand their place in the world, almost always to their own detriment. They remind listeners of the meaning of labor and sacrifice.

As a son, as well as a father, I know how complex family relationships can get. We generally see the modern world as being so very different from the past, but there is still little in human life as transformative as giving birth or raising a child.

Some words from ancient playwrights drive home how much remains the same. In one fragment, referred to as 685, Sophocles claims that children are the anchors of a mothers life. In a fragment of his own, 358, Euripides writes, Love your mother, children, theres no love anywhere that could be sweeter than this.

This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. The Conversation has a variety of fascinating free newsletters.

It was written by: Joel Christensen, Brandeis University.

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Joel Christensen does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Rich Polk/Getty Images for MTV

Tonights MTV Movie & TV Awards marked the first major awards show since members of the Writers Guild of America went on strike last Tuesday. Following Drew Barrymores decision to drop out as host, Paramount announced that it would pivot from a live ceremony to a pre-taped special, resulting in a nearly starless, flashback-filled broadcast.

Leading up to the showwhich was set to take place at Los Angeles Barker Hangarcelebrity presenters like Jamie Lee Curtis and Vanderpump Rules Lala Kent announced that they would not attend, in solidarity with film and television writers currently on strike for better wages. Deadline also reported that a large portion of the evenings scheduled talentwhich included Gal Gadot, Tiffany Haddish, and the cast of Daisy Jones & The Sixhad pulled out of the event.

Drew Barrymore Drops Out as MTV Awards Host Amid Strike

The evening wasnt totally lacking in star power, though. Several celebrities, like Tom Cruise and The Last of Us breakout actress Bella Ramsey, accepted their awards via video. Other golden popcorn recipients, like Jennifer Coolidge and Pedro Pascal, acknowledged the strike in their recorded acceptance speeches.

Almost all great comedy starts with great writers, Coolidge said while accepting this years Comedic Genius Award. And I just think that as a proud member of SAG, I stand here before you tonight, side by side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA. Theyre fighting right now, fighting for the rights of writers everywhere.

Stranger Things actor Joseph Quinn also gave a shout-out to writers when he won Best Breakout Performance. I dont think that people would connect with a character like Eddie or others in the Stranger Things universe without compassionate, intelligent, and quality writing, the British actor said. Being a writer is a hard job, and it deserves respect.

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While accepting Best Show for HBOs The Last Of Us, Pascal said he and the shows creators were standing in solidarity with the WGA that is fighting very hard for fair wages. And several drag performers representing RuPauls Drag Race All Stars, which won Best Competition Series, stated that they stand with the writers in their strike.

If AI Is the Future of Hollywood, Were All F*cked

The rest of the MTV telecast was essentially a two-hour-long clip package with a few pre-recorded sketches starring Barrymore. In the opening skit, the talk show host appeared in several of the Best Movie and Show nominees as her Never Been Kissed character Josie Geller, searching for a smooch. In another, taking cues from the Netflix show Wednesday, she recreated her viral dancing in the rain video. She also CGId herself into the latest Barbie trailer.

Most of the show included lengthy flashbacks and montages of prior ceremonies, plus exclusive clips from upcoming films like The Little Mermaid and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts and a sneak preview of the next episode of Showtimes Yellowjackets. And as if the vibe of the whole show wasnt eerie enough, the night ended with Ghostface accepting Best Movie on behalf of Scream VI. Scary, indeed.

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Nadia Koo turned to art three years ago and has already held several exhibitions and sales in that time

A woman who only took up painting three years ago says art has provided "a sense of complete and utter calm" in a stressful world.

Nadia Koo, who lives in Saffron Walden, Essex, creates bold, colourful work on canvases she buys at car boot sales.

She is now preparing for her third solo exhibition and has already sold dozens of pieces in her blossoming career.

"It is that feeling of being really free," she said. "If you want to draw, don't just say it - just do it."

She added: "I never thought in a million years that I'd be an artist.

"At school, during art lessons, you'd be expected to do life drawings of fruit - like bananas. People would start making monkey noises.

"It was that time, heated with racism. Now I incorporate bananas into some of my drawings. It's about being able to express yourself."

Nadia Koo creates bold, vibrant pieces on large canvases and confesses to never planning a painting before starting

The 58-year-old grandmother - and mother-of-three - said her biggest fan is her son Kyan, 33, and she has had "amazing support" from her whole family.

Ms Koo, who grew up in Cambridge, worked in social and youth work for almost 30 years and chaired harrowing child protection conferences - before painting took hold.

She said she found it difficult to express her feelings after the death of George Floyd in May 2020 made international headlines.

"I just got this urge to do a large painting full of flowers," she said.

"I couldn't understand why people were still hating us for the colour of our skin. I couldn't talk about it. So I let go with that one. I called it 'Number One'."

Nadia Koo said she found it difficult to talk about her feelings in a stressful job

Prolific

"My wife Sarah bought me this whole beautiful pack of acrylics, with drawing pads and thinners - and then it just sat in my caravan in Southwold for two years," she said.

"So I started out just drawing elementary stuff, like vases of flowers.

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"It gave me a feeling of complete and utter calm. I still have PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) from my job and have flashbacks of situations.

"Some artists manage one painting every six months but I was prolific. At one point I was completely sandwiched in with paintings."

She said that for one exhibition, at the Church Street Gallery in Saffron Walden last July, she expected the curator to ask for one or two paintings - but she chose 26.

Nadia Koo's latest exhibition, Lemon Love, starts in Earsham, near Bungay, on Monday

Ms Koo also recently exhibited at the Aldeburgh Gallery and The Power of Stories, a collaboration between Aspire Black Suffolk and Britten Pears Arts at Snape Maltings.

"I didn't realise I was any good," she said, "but I have a bit of impostor syndrome.

"Art provides a different perspective on life. It's a release. Art can heal."

Her latest exhibition, Lemon Love, runs at the Merlina Arts Gallery at Earsham Heritage Mill, near Bungay, Suffolk, from 8 May to 22 May.

Find BBC News: East of England on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you have a story suggestion email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) feels like she is on a political island.

The second-term Republican representative from South Carolina has become one of the most vocal critics of her party on core issues and has found herself at the center of key votes in the new Congress.

Most recently, she was one of the final Republican holdouts on a bill to raise the debt limit and implement spending cuts. She came around and backed the measure only after receiving assurances from Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) that the House would, among other promises, hold votes on legislation pertaining to reproductive health access and active shooter alerts  two issues that have come to define her profile on the national stage.

Her stances on abortion and guns, however, havent significantly moved the needle in the GOP, leaving Mace isolated in a party she believes is heading down a path of defeat.

I often joke that I live on an island back home, and I feel like Im on an island  its very lonely, Mace told The Hill in a brief interview on the steps of the Capitol. I would say this experience in stepping out and not toeing the party line is a very  its a very lonely experience in the environment that were in today.

A high school dropout and the first female graduate from The Citadel, Mace has kept her scrappy and stubborn style when it comes to politics.

She airs her grievances with her party publicly, becoming a fixture on Sunday political talk shows. And though shes come around and voted with her party on most issues  from kicking Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) off the Foreign Affairs committee to the debt ceiling bill  shes done it after extracting promises from leadership and, at the same time, sounding the alarm about the partys priorities.

Mace, who came to Congress in 2021 after beating a Democratic incumbent by just over 1 point, describes herself as a centrist  you guys keep calling me a moderate, and I would say centrist  but her views on abortion and guns have largely isolated her from the rest of the House Republican conference.

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Abortion: Dont be an asshole to women

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.)

Mace describes herself as a pro-life, constitutional conservative, but has been vocal in her belief that there should be exceptions to abortion regulations. The congresswoman  who has publicly spoken about her experience being raped and molested as a teenager  has expressed support for 15-to-20-week abortion bans with exceptions for rape, incest and cases where the life of the mother is at risk.

That puts her at odds with Republican-led states around the country seeking to implement total or six-week bans.

In January, Mace blamed Republican messaging on abortion for the GOPs underperformance in the midterms, which left the House conference with a razor-thin majority, calling the party tone-deaf. Last month, she warned that Republicans are going to lose huge if they continue down this path of extremities.

On a number of occasions, Mace has railed against Floridas newly minted six-week abortion ban, which Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) signed into law last month during a private ceremony late at night. She has particularly zeroed in on the requirement that anyone seeking an exception because of rape, incest or human trafficking provide proof such as a restraining order, police report or medical record.

You saw a six-week ban in Florida signed in the dead of night  and the requirements for women whove been raped. Are you kidding me? Mace said. Im pro-life. Im saying 15-20 [weeks] with exceptions, and so how we talk about it matters.

Dont be an asshole to women, she continued.

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According to an NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist National Poll conducted in April, 33 percent of Republicans mostly support abortion rights, while 65 percent say they are mostly opposed. When surveying time constraints for the medical procedure, just 4 percent of Republicans backed a six-week ban, 26 percent expressed support for a three-month prohibition and 32 percent said the procedure should only be allowed in cases involving rape, incest, or saving the life of the mother. Thirteen percent of Republicans said a total abortion ban aligned most with their opinions.

Mace also made headlines last month when she joined some Democrats in calling on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ignore a Trump-appointed federal judges ruling in Texas that blocked the agencys approval of mifepristone, a pill used for abortions and managing early miscarriages. The Supreme Court ultimately granted a temporary pause on the Texas ruling while the Biden administrations emergency request for a stay is considered by the bench.

The relative silence of top GOP political figures on the ruling was a sign of the difficulty the abortion issue has posed for the Republican Party in the wake of the Supreme Court striking down Roe v. Wade. Despite racking up long-sought pro-life wins, the general electorate in 2022 showed that it is largely in favor of legal abortion access.

Mace has been shouting that sentiment from the rooftops.

Were allowing the minority of voices to take over a mainstream issue where I would argue the vast majority of elected officials and our voters agree with where I am, but theyre afraid to say it, she said. And they just allow these extreme voices to run away with the issue. And were going to lose because of it if we dont speak up and speak out and do whats right.

Mace criticizes DeSantis for signing six-week abortion ban in dead of night

Guns: We need to have this conversation

Mace has also been outspoken on the topic of firearms, a hot-button issue after a spate of mass shootings in the U.S.

In April, after a gunman opened fire at a bank in Louisville, Ky., killing five people and injuring eight others, Mace said members of her party can no longer be silent on the issue of guns in America. The massacre came days before Republicans gathered in Indianapolis for the National Rifle Associations annual meeting, roughly 115 miles away from the bank.

We need to have this conversation, Mace told Fox News Sunday. I will tell you, every mass shooting, theres just silence.  Prayers are offered, Easter baskets are offered, but no real solutions.

The congresswoman listed off proposals such as instituting AMBER alert-style notifications for shootings, bolstering background checks and hardening schools, churches and synagogues, imploring her party to take some action on the issue.

We have not learned anything from the midterm elections if were going to sit there on our hands silently, not offering any type of solution to reduce gun violence in our country. And its not about gun control, she added.

But last year, when Congress approved the first major piece of legislation to combat gun violence in 30 years  which President Biden later signed into law  Mace did not join the 14 GOP House colleagues or 15 Republican senators who supported the measure.

In a statement following the vote, Mace called the bill sweeping legislation which jeopardizes Americans Constitutional protections.

Debt limit showdown

Most recently, Mace broke from House Republicans when she initially came out against their legislation to increase the debt ceiling and implement spending cuts. She said the measure did not do enough to reduce the national debt and expressed opposition to nixing tax credits for wind and solar energy, which she said would impact her district.

The congresswoman, however, ultimately flipped her stance and voted in favor of the measure after closed-door negotiations with McCarthy. In exchange for her vote, Mace says she received assurances the House would hold a floor vote on legislation related to womens access to reproductive health and child care services, in addition to an active shooter alert bill that she will lead.

Mace will also lead a draft on a balanced budget amendment with the backing of McCarthy and will receive a markup discussion on her States Reform Act, which would decriminalize cannabis on the federal level and defer regulation to the states.

GOP, McCarthy now face even heavier debt ceiling lift

Its important that I use my one voice and my one vote, my one voice, to advocate and work on the things that South Carolina cares about and the country cares about, Mace said when discussing her deal with McCarthy. And Im going to do everything in my being to be a strong voice.

Mace said she has not received direct pushback from her colleagues for any of her politically controversial stances.

You might know better than me at this point, she said. I think I intimidate people sometimes.

You hear rumors and stuff, but nobodys ever said anything to us, she added.

Her postures, however, have consistently left her isolated within an increasingly partisan political party during a hyper-polarized moment in American history.

But that loneliness does not seem to bother her.

I call the balls and strikes, Mace said, and I dont care if you have an R or D by your name.

Emily Brooks contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An illustration of the Lunar Flashlight spacecraft in orbit.

For nearly five months, teams behind NASAs Lunar Flashlight mission have been trying to get the briefcase-sized satellite to fire up its thrusters and get on the right orbital track around the Moon. Theres now some hope with one of the thrusters showing some improvement as work continues on the remaining three.

The Lunar Flashlights operations team has developed a new method to get the satellites propulsion system up and running, with the spacecraft needing more thrust within the next few days so that it can reach its revised orbit, NASA wrote in a blogpost on Friday.

Read more

Team members at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory in southern California, Georgia Tech, and the space agencys Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, are all working together on the new strategy, which involves increasing fuel pump pressure far beyond the systems operational limit while opening and closing the systems valves, according to NASA. The objective of this method is to attempt to remove any blockages from the thrusters fuel lines, enabling the spacecraft to produce adequate thrust for carrying out monthly flybys of the Moons south polar region.

The mission engineers latest attempt focused on one of the cubesats thrusters and they are now attempting it on the other three. This has resulted in limited success, with the remaining thrusters inconsistently producing some increased levels of thrust, NASA wrote in the blogpost.



Lunar Flashlight launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket alongside Japans Hakuto-R lunar lander mission in December 2022. Sadly, the Japanese private lander crashed on the Moon in April, failing to fulfill its mission. Its payload companion, on the other hand, is still trying to carry out its own mission.

Shortly after its launch, Lunar Flashlight ran into some trouble when three of its four thrusters began to underperform on account of those obstructed fuel lines. Lunar Flashlight was supposed to enter a near-rectilinear halo orbit around the Moon, but with the thruster problems, NASA hatched a plan to place the probe in a high Earth orbit instead, allowing it to scan the Moons south polar regions once per month, as opposed to the original plan of once per week.

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The cubesat is currently more than half a million miles away from Earth and looping its way back toward our planet. Meanwhile, the mission team is trying to nudge the Lunar Flashlight into a trajectory that will allow it to arrive in the required Earth-Moon orbit, according to NASA.



The Lunar Flashlight is designed to shine infrared light on some of the Moons permanently shadowed regions, scanning the lunar South Pole for reservoirs of ice water hidden away from the Suns light. The small spacecraft is using a new kind of propulsion system as a technology demonstration in space, which always carries its own risk for the mission itself.

Technology demonstrations are high-risk, high-reward endeavors intended to push the frontiers of space technology, NASA wrote. The lessons learned from these challenges will help to inform future missions that advance this technology.

For more spaceflight in your life, follow us on Twitter and bookmark Gizmodos dedicated Spaceflight page.



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Rocket Lab launched two toaster-size satellites for NASA on Sunday, the first of four "cubesats" designed to provide hourly updates of typhoon and hurricane development in a bid to improve forecasting and provide new insights into how tropical storms evolve and intensify.

An Electron rocket blasts off from Rocket Lab's picturesque Mahia, New Zealand, launch site, carrying two small NASA satellites designed to monitor tropical storm development. / Credit: Rocket Lab

"The threat to our friends and neighbors is real and repeats every year," said Ben Kim, a program executive with NASA's Earth Science Division. The TROPICS mission, he said, "aims to improve our scientific understanding by obtaining microwave observations that allow us to see the inner structure of these storms approximately hourly.

"These observations will complement the existing weather satellites, and ultimately then can be tied to the broader understanding of the entire earth system."

TROPICS, one of NASA's more convoluted acronyms, stands for Time-Resolved Observations of Precipitation Structure and Storm Intensity with a Constellation of Smallsats. The bargain-basement $30 million mission takes advantage of miniaturized electronics and the evolution of cubesats capable of taking on big-ticket science.

The cubesats aren't intended to replace larger, much more powerful and much more expensive weather satellites. But they offer a low-cost way to augment those "flagship" missions with complementary science and much shorter development times

"We utilize a balanced mission portfolio that ranges from the really large observatories, like Landsat 9 at around 6,000 pounds, down to the very smallest of satellites like TROPICS at around 12 pounds," Kim said.

"This mix within our portfolio allows us to maximize the science per taxpayer dollar, and thus do more science than if we only focus on the large missions."

The first two of six planned TROPICS cubesats were lost last year when their Astra rocket failed during the climb to space. NASA then moved the four remaining cubesats to Rocket Lab's more reliable Electron in order to get them into orbit in time for this year's tropical storm season.

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Running about a week late because of stormy weather, the first of the two remaining missions got off to a picture-perfect start at 9 p.m. EDT Sunday with launch from Rocket Lab's picturesque Mahia, New Zealand, launch site.

An artist's impression of a NASA TROPICS satellite studying a tropical storm from orbit. Four such satellites will enable hourly passes over developing storms to help scientists learn more about how storms develop and evolve. / Credit: NASA

The 59-foot-tall carbon-composite rocket's nine 3D-printed Rutherford engines pushed the booster out of the lower atmosphere before falling away and handing off to the rocket's second stage, which put the craft into an initial parking orbit nine-and-a-half minutes after liftoff.

A third "kick" stage then finished the job, releasing TROPICS 3 and 4 to fly on their own about 33 minutes after launch. It was Rocket Lab's 36th Electron launch and its 16th successful flight in a row.

If all goes well, Rocket Lab will launch TROPICS 5 and 6 before the end of the month to complete a four-satellite constellation. All four satellites will operate in 341-mile-high orbits carrying them about 30 degrees to either side of the equator, ideal for "revisit" observations of developing storms on an hourly basis.

William Blackwell, the TROPICS principal investigator at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory, said getting microwave observations of growing storms, at the rapid revisit rates the cubesats provide, is critical to understanding the development and behavior of tropical storms.

.

"We've been making (such observations) for 40 years from space, but the thing that has eluded us is this ability to capture the dynamics of the storm," he said. "So this new hourly cadence that we'll get with the constellation is really going to push us forward in terms of what the observations are able to do to explain how things are changing in the storm."

The observations, in concert with data collected by larger, more powerful weather satellites, are expected to "improve understanding of the basic processes that drive the storms and ultimately improve our ability to forecast track and intensity."

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A hotel manager in Nashville, Tennessee, is facing charges of aggravated burglary and assault after he allegedly entered a guests room early in the morning in order to suck on the mans toes.

David Patrick Neal was arrested Friday at his home in Lebanon for acts he allegedly committed on March 30 at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Nashville.

The alleged victim, Pete Brennan of Texas, told Nashville ABC affiliate WKRN that he was staying at the Hilton on sort of a typical work trip.

Things were normal until a man entered Brennans hotel room around 5 a.m.

I awoke to a gentleman who had snuck into my room somehow and was sexually assaulting me, Brennan told Nashville NBC affiliate WSMV-TV. It was actually the Hilton manager [who] was the attacker.

Brennan told WKRN that he was so shocked.

It was almost like a dream, a sort of nightmare, he said. It just didnt make sense. Why is this person touching me?

Police say Neal made a key card that he used to enter Brennans room.

Brennan says that when he woke up and saw his toes being sucked, he recognized the other person as Neal, who had come into his room the day before with another employee to address an issue with the rooms TV.

Investigators spoke with Neal, who admitted to entering Brennans room, but said it was because he smelled smoke and wanted to check on the guest.

Police noted that Neal never reported the smoke smell to security and that there were no other reports of smoke in the hotel.

Investigators havent found the room key that Neal used to enter Brennans room. He told police that he threw it away.

Brennan has filed a lawsuit against the Nashville Hilton for hiring Neal. Michael Fisher, one of Brennans lawyers, said Neal has a criminal history that should have shown up in a background check of a prospective employee.

Multiple charges of forgery, drinking and driving, a manslaughter conviction as well, which served prison time, Fisher told WKRN. When Hilton hired this person, they had to have known. They have to do background checks to know, and the fact that they would put somebody like that in a position where they have the ability to clone keys, have the ability to get into a guests room.

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The safety and security of our guests and team members is our highest priority, a representative for the Hilton Nashville Downtown hotel told WKRN in a statement. We are working closely with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, and, as part of company policy, we do not comment on ongoing investigations.

Neal is currently in jail in lieu of $27,000 bail. His next court date is set for June 3.

Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website.

Related...
Dr. Reuben Sloan was a fellow at the Hughston Clinic studying primary care and sports medicine in the mid to late 1990s.

Sloan was one of 10 fellows selected to learn from Dr. Jack Hughston at the clinic, and one of the most important lessons his mentor taught him was how crucial it is to get to know patients.

I wanted to have his humility, Sloan said. And I want to get to know my patients.

Over a decade later in 2012, Sloan was keeping his promise by talking to one of his patients, Gail Cohn, about her family. The conversation began to get medical history, and they kept chatting from there.

He asked about Cohns father, Aaron Cohn, who Sloan knew by reputation from his time in Columbus because Aaron was a famous judge in the region. Cohn informed her doctor that her father passed away a few weeks prior and that she would be speaking about him at the National Infantry Museum.

Gail Cohn speaks Thursday evening at the National Infantry Museum as part of Corresponding Angles: The Story of a Liberator & A Holocaust Survivor. 05/04/2023

Curious, Sloan asked for more information and learned that Aarons memory is being dedicated in the Holocaust exhibit of the World War II section in the museum. More curious, Sloan asks if Cohns father was being honored because he was a famous, well-respected Jewish man in Columbus.

Cohn told him no. Her father served in Lieutenant General George Pattons Third Army and liberated a concentration camp. Cohn had all of Sloans attention.

What concentration camp, Gale? he asked.

Ebensee, Cohn told him. A subcamp of Mauthausen.

Its very possible your father rescued, saved, liberated my father from that hellhole, Sloan told her.

Telling their fathers stories

Sloan and Cohn were shocked by the way their families likely crossed paths, a Holocaust survivor and a liberator, in Poland during World War II.

As the first lecture in a series at the National Infantry Museum, Sloan and Cohn told their fathers stories in a lecture titled Corresponding Angles to about 100 people Thursday evening.

Ive always been fascinated by World War II and Holocaust history, Sloan said. And given my fathers history, for me to come here and talk in his honor, his legacy, its just a dream come true.

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Sloans father, born Icek Slodowski, was between the ages of 12-14 years old when he was held in concentration camps in Poland.

One of the biggest questions Sloan had when he began this research was whether anyone else in his fathers family survived.

He found his answer.

Dr. Reuben Sloan speaks Thursday evening at the National Infantry Museum during the Corresponding Angles: The Story of a Liberator & A Holocaust Survivor program. 05/04/2023

Slodowski was the only member of his immediate family to survive. In an extended family of more than 120 people, he was one of only seven to survive: three women from his mothers side and three men from his fathers side.

Researching his family history was difficult, Sloan said, because his father didnt like to talk about the experience.

Theres so many holes, he said. Thank God we have digitized databases now, and Ive dug up so much information on him in the last year and a half thats really pieced the story together.

Cohns father, Aaron, was determined to speak out about the horrors hed seen in the concentration camps while he served. Hed made a promise to a survivor.

Look at me now, the survivor told Aaron. Im a walking cadaver. My wife, my children, all murdered in the Holocaust and simply because we were born of the Jewish faith.

The man made Aaron promise that he wouldnt forget about them and that he would tell their story.

He kept that promise for the rest of his life, Cohn said.

Asked during the question and answer portion of the lecture as to whether they know for certain that their parents actually met, Sloan and Cohn said they are confident that they did.

The partner of Sloans eldest sister, David, remembered conversations he had with Slodowski over the 40 years theyd known each other. Sloans family were always glad to hear the few stories Slodowski told about the Holocaust, and he once spoke to David about a major in Pattons Army who could communicate with him.

Sloans father didnt speak English, he only knew Yiddish and a few words in German and Russian.

When Aaron arrived at Ebensee, the survivors shrunk in fear of the soldiers carrying guns and wearing combat boots. He spoke to them in Yiddish explaining that he was a Jewish American major.

The only major in Pattons army that could communicate with Slodowski would have been Aaron Cohen, Sloan said.

I think we have pretty convincing evidence that they met, he said.
Republican state lawmakers rely on rural voters to keep them in control of the General Assembly, but theyve often used that power to alternatively neglect or abuse rural areas.

Republicans refused to expand Medicaid for more than a decade, even as rural hospitals closed or cut services for lack of the extra funding. They underfunded schools, the largest employer in most low-population counties. And they protect industrial hog and poultry operations that foul the air, water and soil in rural areas.

Now Republicans are lining up in favor of twin bills in the state House and Senate that could deliver the biggest blow yet. The Choose Your School, Choose Your Future legislation would provide universal vouchers to make it easier for all parents to send their children to a private school. The voucher amounts would vary with income, but even the wealthiest families would be eligible for a voucher equal to 45 percent of the states per-pupil allotment, now more than $7,200.

The expansion of the states Opportunity Scholarship program would siphon funds from all public schools, but it would be especially hard on rural school systems that have only a few thousand students. Those systems are a significant group in North Carolina, which has the second largest rural student population in the nation, behind only Texas.

Gerry Hancock, a lawyer representing a consortium of more than 70 of the states low-wealth school districts, told me, It is a diversion of funding away from traditional public schools where they desperately need the funds to serve the children  most of the children in the state  who are still in public schools, he said.

School districts are already dealing with the loss of state funding as per-pupil allotments go to more charter schools. Making vouchers universal will encourage more parents to enroll their children in private schools, many of them small, religious schools.

School districts will lose per-pupil state allotments but will still have the fixed expenses of transportation, utilities and building maintenance. Republicans hope to offset the loss by increasing funding for low-wealth schools, but that funding is uncertain year-to-year while the effects of fewer students will be continuous and growing.

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Keith Sutton, a former Wake County school board member and a 2020 Democratic candidate for state superintendent of public instruction, is now the superintendent of schools in rural Warren County. He told me his districts enrollment since 2017 has dropped from 2,141 to 1,730, in part because of students opting for charter schools. Losing more students to private schools would strain the districts finances and likely lead to layoffs, he said.

When youre already struggling with resources, this would only make it worse, make it more difficult, Sutton said. It takes resources to maintain and improve schools, to hire and retain high quality staff. This would only add another blow to that work.

Opportunity Scholarship vouchers go directly to the private schools, but there would be little oversight of how the funds are spent or the schools academic standards.

The lack of accountability reflects the real aim of school choice legislation. Its not about putting children in better schools. Its about weakening the dominance of public schools and their supposed indoctrination of students with a range of perspectives on history, culture and race that many Christian conservatives dont share.

John deVille is a social studies teacher at Franklin High School in Macon County, where 12 schools serve about 4,500 students. He told me universal vouchers could devastate traditional public schools that are already struggling. This is the last intentional nail in the K-12 education coffin, he said.

Sutton hopes lawmakers will slow down and reconsider. I would like them to take a little more time to study the implications for our most challenged school systems across the state, he said.

But it appears too late for Republicans to have second thoughts about what theyre about to do to the people who helped put them in power.

Associate opinion editor Ned Barnett can be reached at 919-404-7583, or nbarnett@ newsobserver.com
UK Border desk at Manchester airport - Peter Powell/PA

Migration levels could soar to twice the numbers seen before Brexit, immigration experts have said.

They are predicting that net migration  the number entering the UK minus those leaving  could hit a record high of 675,000, double the pre-Brexit peak of 331,000 eight years ago. This would surpass the previous high of 504,000 set in the year to June 2022.

The jump has been fuelled by a continued sharp increase in non-EU migrants entering the UK to work, study, escape conflict or oppression and join relatives. The increase has more than compensated for the fall in EU citizens whose numbers have slumped since Brexit ended freedom of movement.

The figures will pile pressure on the Government over its 2019 election manifesto pledge to bring down net migration, a promise repeated by Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister and Suella Braverman, the Home Secretary. She told the 2022 Tory conference that her ambition was to reduce it to below 100,000.

On Wednesday, the House of Lords will debate the Illegal Migration Bill for the first time, and the Government is braced for savage criticism.

Ministers expect multiple amendments from peers who will seek to water down or remove key parts of the legislation which severely restricts migrants ability to claim asylum in the UK. Under the proposals, nearly all those arriving illegally will be detained and deported to their home country or a safe third nation such as Rwanda.

Home Office data show that the year-on-year number of work, study and other visas granted to non-EU citizens excluding visitors has risen by 272,140 in the past six months, with a total of nearly 1.37 million applications accepted in the year to December 2022.

Not all of these will translate into overall immigration figures as some will not be long-term migrants. In previous years, non-EU migrants have accounted for 55 to 65 per cent of arrivals, which would suggest that immigration will be up by between 150,000 and 175,000.

Its plausible net migration could go up by about the same amount if there is not yet any change in emigration, said one immigration expert, who anticipated there would be a lag before the numbers of people leaving the country started to rise.

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Its possible emigration will start to increase and thus mitigate the increase in net migration resulting from more visas being issued, though I wouldnt expect the main change in emigration to take place until around 2023-24.

Experts believe the current peaks in net migration are temporary, fuelled by a surge in students to nearly 500,000 a year and more than 180,000 humanitarian visas issued to Ukrainians, Afghans and Hong Kongers. Students will return to their home countries once they graduate, as will some Ukrainians.

The Office for Budget Responsibility has projected that net migration into Britain by foreign workers, students and families will settle at around an average of 245,000 annually in the years to come, although some experts believe it will be closer to 300,000.

The rise has been fuelled by a more liberal approach to post-Brexit immigration, undertaken whilst Boris Johnson was prime minister, that saw his points system open up half of all jobs in the UK to foreign workers, by lowering salary and skilled thresholds for migrants and lifting the cap.

The number of foreign workers granted visas has nearly doubled from more than 330,000, predominantly coming from non-EU countries since the end of freedom of movement rules required EU workers to get visas. The rise has been led by workers from India, Philippines and Nigeria.

The new foreign graduate visa that allows students to stay in the UK for two years after completing their degree has seen overseas students numbers jump by more than two-thirds from 286,000 to a record 492,000 last year.

Ministers focus has been on illegal migration, but measures including tighter restrictions on the number of dependents students can bring, the type of course open to foreign students and salary levels for work visas have been considered.

A Home Office spokesman said: The public rightly expect us to control our borders and we remain committed to reducing net migration over time, while ensuring we have the skills our economy needs.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A memorial for Tiffany Guess, Michael Mayo and Rylee Allen is placed outside the rural Henryetta home where their bodies and four others were discovered May 1. Police have said their mother's husband shot and killed the three teenage children, their mother and two of their teenage friends.

Oklahomas criminal justice system missed multiple chances to lock up a sex offender before he killed five children, his wife and himself in rural Henryetta, legal experts say.

Jesse McFadden was accused in 2017 of soliciting child porn from a teen girl while in prison. He then ignored orders not to contact her before trial.

Yet the case languished for six years. McFaddens trial was finally set for May 1, the day authorities found his body and six others.

Changes to Oklahoma law in 2018 were meant to protect the rights of victims while their cases work their way through court. But five years later, McFaddens case has exposed how the state court system still failed to deliver justice to a young victim  and to act before six others were killed.

If a person is in prison and gets another criminal charge, especially a sex offender that is in prison committing another sexual charge, then they should not be released to the community, said Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, who has called for a total overhaul of Oklahomas criminal justice system. We have to dig deep and look at this case.

Ashleigh Webster shows a photo of her daughter Ivy Webster (left) and Tiffany Guess (right).

Police have said McFadden, 39, shot and killed his wife, Holly Guess, 35, her children, Rylee Allen, 17, Michael Mayo, 15, and Tiffany Guess, 13, and two of her childrens friends, Brittany Brewer, 15, and Ivy Webster, 14. McFadden died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators do not know when the killings occurred but have said some of the teens were seen the night of April 29.

Watch: Father of Henryetta victim wants sex offender laws changed

The next day, McFadden sent a series of Facebook messages to the victim in his pending trial, which could send him back to prison for decades if convicted. The victim, who is now in her 20s, shared the messages with police, as well as Fox23 News in Tulsa.

I told you I wouldnt go back, one message from McFadden said. This is all on you for continuing this.

The woman did not return messages to The Oklahoman to speak about her case. But she told Fox23 that McFadden should have faced trial while he was still in prison, which could have prevented his release. She said the justice system failed her.

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This is a huge failure on their part, she said. This is something they could have stopped. This never had to happen.

Siblings Tiffany Guess, Michael Mayo and Rylee Elizabeth Allen are shown in photographs provided by their grandmother, Janette Mayo. They were shot in killed by their mother's husband, police said.

"No case should languish for six years

Police started investigating McFadden after the victims grandfather contacted the prison in 2016 and alleged that he had been contacting his teenage granddaughter. Prison officials also found a cellphone in McFaddens possession.

He was charged in September 2017 with possessing child porn and using a phone to sexually solicit a child. He was released from prison in October 2020, without ever facing trial on the child porn charges.

After his release, he periodically contacted the victim on social media despite being ordered not to, Muskogee County District Attorney Larry Edwards said. His bond was never revoked.

Edwards said he did not learn about those contacts until he took over the case in June. He agreed it should have been resolved sooner.

Ill be the first to say no case should languish for six years, he said. No case.

'She was my best friend': Henryetta teen missed the sleepover that ended with 7 dead

Marsy's Law built to keep proceedings free from unreasonable delay"

Under Marsys Law, crime victims in Oklahoma have the right to proceedings free from unreasonable delay. The law, approved by voters in 2018, was meant to place victims rights on par with those afforded to defendants.

Victims must be notified of their rights. But courts are still adapting to Marsys Law, so it can create some confusion or pushback on the ground when victims assert those rights, said Matt Primm, a Tulsa attorney who has represented victims under the law.

Its having to break that ice and educate, not necessarily the court, but everybody involved, so that they understand what those rights are and what that means, said Primm, a founding partner of Haven Law Group.

He said a victim may not want to assert their right to a speedy trial if it would hamper the prosecution.

A memorial is placed at the home of Brittany Brewer in Henryetta. Brittany was found dead along with six others on May 1.

What delayed McFadden's case?

But several lawyers who regularly try cases in state courts said the prosecution of McFadden stood out as uncommonly long. Court records show the case has been set for trial at least eight times since September 2019. But it never made it to the top of the trial priority list until May 1.

The delays were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 death of McFaddens original defense attorney.

Capacity, though, was the biggest issue in recent months and years. Muskogee County convenes a jury three times every year, with each term lasting a few weeks. That only leaves time for a handful of trials, Edwards said.

The courts inability to try more cases points to a broader issue within the state courts system, said Brett Chapman, a Tulsa defense attorney who previously worked as a prosecutor.

Its not the victims fault that they cannot properly hold jury terms, he said. Thats on the state government.

More: Families grieve, demand accountability after 7 found dead in Henryetta

Trial courts typically prioritize the cases of defendants who are in jail, because they are more likely to assert their own rights to a speedy trial. Cases against prisoners often arent prioritized in the same way, said Matthew Price, a public defender and former prosecutor in Muskogee County.

Sometimes these things kind of languish a little bit when theyre in prison, he said.

Court records show the state was moving toward trial in late 2019 during McFaddens final year in prison. But that trial never occurred. Edwards, who was not working in the district attorneys office at the time, said he didnt know why.

This case was too old, Edwards said. It was a very high priority case on Monday (May 1).

More: Police confirm Jesse McFadden fatally shot six prior to killing himself

Edwards said he was making final preparations when the victim contacted him April 30 to share the messages McFadden had sent. He said he read the messages at about 10 p.m. that night. He said he believed McFadden was trying to cast blame on the victim for the pending trial.

In hindsight, you read them and say, Oh my God, you should have done something, Edwards said.

Prompting changes

Humphrey, the state representative, said the case exposes a complete breakdown in the court system that should prompt a review and changes in law. He is working with Rep. Scott Fetgatter, who represents the area where the killings occurred, to try to pass a bill in the final weeks of the legislative session. They hope to prevent prisoners from leaving state custody if they are facing pending charges.

Its sad that we have to do this, Humphrey said. Should we have to write a law? Thats where we are today. The system is failing.

Reach reporter Molly Young at mollyyoung@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: McFadden's delayed trial before Henryetta killings prompts calls for reform
The Seattle Kraken have been the best story of the NHL playoffs so far thanks to their first-round upset of the Colorado Avalanche, but they may not be done yet.

A 7-2 win over the Dallas Stars on Sunday gave Seattle a 2-1 series lead and showed off the team's greatest strength  its scoring depth.

Despite the fact the Kraken scored seven goals in Game 3, no individual player produced more than two points and 12 of the team's 18 skaters found the scoresheet.

The common refrain about Seattle is that it lacks a top line full of elite talent, but all four of its lines are second-line calibre. That might be a slight exaggeration, but it's not too far from the truth.

The Kraken have excelled in the playoffs despite a dearth of elite offensive talent. (Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports)

In these playoffs, the Kraken don't have a point-per-game producer, but 16 different players have scored the team's 32 goals and 10 have multiple tallies. For a frame of reference, the Stars have 12 total scorers and seven players with at least two goals.

The playoff results are in line with Seattle's output during the regular season, too. The Kraken's top point scorer, Jared McCann, put 70 on the board. That ranked 59th in the NHL. Five different Dallas players would have been Seattle's top producer.

While the team lacked a dominant offensive focal point, it had 13 double-digit goal scorers and 13 skaters with 30-plus points. If we look at Seattle's lines, their regular season and playoff point production are all relatively similar to one another.

Via Hockey-Reference

This chart undersells the top line a bit, as Tye Kartye is a recent addition to the lineup who didn't play in the regular season. If McCann was playing there would be a clearly delineated first line, but the fact the team has three units below it that present similar offensive threat levels is still rare.

It's easy to understand the positives associated with strong depth and never letting your opponent off the hook for a shift, but this kind of roster construction is not associated with deep playoff runs.

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The conventional wisdom states that star power is what wins in the playoffs, and based on recent results it's tough to disagree. Recent winners like the Colorado Avalanche, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins and Chicago Blackhawks all had Hall-of-Fame contributors at the top of their lineups. The 2018-19 St. Louis Blues were an exception, but winning it all tends to take a handful of special talents.

Winning a Stanley Cup isn't a fair expectation for this Kraken group, but they have performed extremely well against two of the toughest teams in the Western Conference.

Even if they shock the world, it's not like Seattle has an easily replicable team-building model considering much of its roster was acquired via the expansion draft. That said, this team has the NHL's attention.

If the Kraken continue to have success in this postseason, it may have some GMs reconsidering the value of avoiding weak links as opposed to top-loading their rosters.
With the Toronto Maple Leafs down 3-0 in their series with the Florida Panthers, the team's season stands on the edge of a knife  and there's plenty of blame to go around.

As is often the case when the Leafs fail to deliver in the playoffs, the team's top four forwards have come under fire. The combination of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares and William Nylander account for approximately 49% of Toronto's salary cap and they haven't scored a single goal against Florida.

It makes sense to address that group together as they are all at least somewhat complicit in the team's playoff disappointments in recent years, but it's also a bit of an oversimplification.

Take Matthews, for example.

The star centre was literally inches from a completely different narrative in Game 3 when he hit a post seconds into the contest.

In this series, the Maple Leafs are outshooting the Panthers 30-19 when Matthews in on the ice at 5-on-5 with an xGF% of 57.40. The star scorer has been robbed by Sergei Bobrovsky over and over again while putting 14 shots on net. That underlying performance normally results in goals, it just hasn't in this case.

Nylander has similarly strong underlying 5-on-5 numbers with an xGF% even better than Matthews (58.65%), played an outstanding Game 2 that resulted in his coach saying he was the "best player on the ice by a mile" in the third period, and provided a beautiful setup out of nothing on Toronto's second goal in Game 3.

Nylander draws all the Panthers over to one side giving Gustafsson an open lane pic.twitter.com/Ki5RqwyO4z  Omar (@TicTacTOmar) May 7, 2023

The other two players in the "Core Four" are harder to defend. Marner doesn't have an even-strength point in the series despite skating 23:50 per night, and he's coming off a Game 3 where he produced a team-low xGF% of 24.51% and a committed a number of atrocious giveaways.

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For all the sins of the others, Tavares stands out as a player who isn't just failing to convert on opportunities but actively improving Florida's chances of winning games.

Looking at his basic numbers, Tavares is pointless with a minus-3 rating against the Panthers. That's a solid indication that he hasn't been a difference maker, but looking a little deeper it's even clearer that he's having a rough go.

With Tavares on the ice at 5-on-5 the Maple Leafs have been outshot 22-32 and failed to score. His xGF% of 44.29% ranks 16th among Toronto's skaters.

His most common linemate in this series has been Nylander, and the Swede has been far more effective without him while Tavares has floundered without the winger at 5-on-5:

Nylander

Via Naturalstattrick.com

Tavares

Via Naturalstattrick.com

These stats come from small samples, but the results are jarring.

In this series, Tavares has needed Nylander alongside him to generate looks, but when he's gotten those looks he hasn't done anything with them.

Below is an individual event map for Tavares against Florida at 5-on-5. He's gotten five opportunities right in the slot and only one of them has resulted in a shot on net with three misses and a block.

Via Naturalstattrick.com

To be clear, no one player is responsible for the predicament the Maple Leafs find themselves in. But there's a distinction to be drawn between guys who are generating offence and not seeing positive outcomes follow and those who simply aren't creating.

Tavares falls in the latter category.

What's supposed to make the Maple Leafs a contender is the idea that they have two lines packed with elite talent. Matthews is a franchise centre who other teams have a tough time matching up with, but most quality squads have a first line with blue-chip stars.

Toronto can be confident about its first line against anyone, but it's meant to feel great about its second line with Tavares and one of Marner or Nylander. The idea of Tavares as a top-line centre masquerading as a second-liner to eat soft matchups is appealing, but it doesn't consistently work in practice anymore.

Maple Leafs captain John Tavares has not delivered on expectations in the second round. (Sam Navarro/USA TODAY Sports)

Even during the regular season, half of the 32-year-old's goals and 48.8% of his points came with the man advantage. In the playoffs, power plays are often harder to come by, as Toronto saw in Game 3 when it didn't get a minute of 5-on-4 time.

With Tavares off the ice the Maple Leafs have outshot, out-chanced and won the expected goals battle with Florida while tying them in actual goals.

They could've reasonably expected their captain's minutes to help turn the tide in their favour, but so far the opposite has been true.
Smoke billows in Khartoum amid ongoing fighting between the forces of two rival generals

Ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia between Sudan's warring generals have yielded "no major progress" so far, a Saudi official told AFP on Monday, dampening hopes for a quick end to the fighting.

Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), sent representatives to the Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah on Saturday for meetings that Washington and Riyadh have described as "pre-negotiation talks".

Goals include reaching "an effective short-term halt" to the fighting, facilitating aid delivery, restoring basic services and setting "a timetable for expanded negotiations to reach a permanent cessation of hostilities", the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement Monday.

The two sides have "begun to discuss the security measures they should take in order to facilitate the delivery of urgent humanitarian aid and the restoration of essential services", the statement said.

But a Saudi diplomat told AFP on Monday that "no major progress is achieved so far".

"A permanent ceasefire isn't on the table. Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle," the diplomat added.

The UN's top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, arrived in Jeddah on Sunday intending to meet representatives of both camps, though his role in the process is unclear.

A spokesperson for Griffiths said on Sunday that he had arrived in Jeddah "to engage in humanitarian issues related to Sudan".

A separate UN official said on Monday that Griffiths had "asked to join the negotiations" but that his request had not been approved so far.

The talks "will continue in the following days", the Saudi foreign ministry said, without specifying a clear timeline.

- Humanitarian crisis -

Multiple truce deals have been declared, without effect, since fighting erupted on April 15 in the poverty-stricken country with a history of instability.

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Fierce combat has killed hundreds of people, wounded thousands and sparked multiple warnings of a "catastrophic" humanitarian crisis.

More than 100,000 people have already fled the country.

Saudi Arabia has assumed a major role in evacuations from Sudan, dispatching naval and commercial vessels to bring thousands of people from numerous countries across the Red Sea from the Sudanese coastal city of Port Sudan.

On Sunday, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directed $100 million to be donated for assistance to Sudan, including medical aid and help for displaced people, the official Saudi Press Agency reported.

Saudi officials will also organise a public donations campaign "to mitigate the effects of the conditions that the Sudanese people are currently going through", the agency said.

In a Sunday meeting, US national security advisor Jake Sullivan thanked the Saudi crown prince, the kingdom's de facto ruler, "for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan", the White House said in a statement.

ht-rcb/ho/jsa
For all its talk of being a champion of transparency, the group Protect the Public's Trust has been shady about its own precise nature.

For all its talk of being a champion of transparency, the group Protect the Public's Trust has been shady about its own precise nature.

Protect the Publics Trust, a watchdog group run by a former Trump administration official, has become influential in right-wing circles over the last two years, making a name for itself by being a thorn in the side of the Biden administration.

The Washington, D.C.-based organization first surfaced in early 2021, shortly after President Joe Biden took office, and has portrayed itself as a nonpartisan, pro-transparency nonprofit dedicated to fighting government corruption and ensuring that federal officials play by the rules. It has filed a slew of Freedom of Information Act requests, ethics complaints and lawsuits targeting Biden Cabinet members and other high-ranking administration officials. It has at times succeeded in shining a light on conflicts of interest, and has even influenced questioning in congressional hearings.

But for all its talk of being a champion of transparency, PPT has been shady about its own precise nature, going as far as to misrepresent itself in public records requests.

In a FOIA request to the Department of Energy in May 2021, PPT described itself as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with supporters and members of the public who seek a transparent, ethical and impartial government that makes decisions in the best interests of all Americans, not former employers and special interests.

A 501(c)(3) is a specific type of nonprofit designation awarded by the IRS to certain charitable, religious or educational organizations. These groups are exempt from federal taxes and allow for donors to write off contributions.

PPT, however, has never filed a Form 990 that is required of 501(c)(3) nonprofits, according to HuffPosts review of the IRSs nonprofit database and several other business and nonprofit search tools.

Over its two years as a group, PPT has repeatedly changed how it portrays itself.

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By September 2021, it had dropped 501(c)(3) from its description in public records requests, calling itself simply a non-profit organization  a state-level designation. In a lawsuit filed against the State Department in January 2022, the group called itself an unincorporated association of retired and former public servants and concerned citizens that is dedicated to restoring public trust in government. More recently, in January 2023, it labeled itself simply a collection of individuals.

PPT did not respond last week to HuffPosts specific questions or provide a copy of a Form 990, which tax-exempt organizations are legally required to provide within 30 days of a written request.

As we say on our website, PPT is a group of retired and former public servants with decades of experience in government, Michael Chamberlain, the groups director and a former Trump administration official, wrote in an email statement. We have pursued our mission of exposing ethics conflicts and misconduct since we began and continue to do so. To this day, we remain an unincorporated association of individuals.

Directly after HuffPost inquired about its nonprofit status last week, PPT changed the description at the top of its Facebook page from nonprofit organization to Non-Governmental Organization (NGO). It also updated its About section, which as of Monday identifies the group as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), a Nonprofit Organization and a News & media website.

HuffPost could find no business records for PPT on file with the District of Columbia or neighboring states, or in business libraries. PPT lists its address as 712 H Street NE, Suite 1682, Washington, D.C.  a storefront in Northeast D.C. that is home to Gold Spot Pack and Ship, a shipping, office supply and check cashing business.

The organization appears to be flush with resources, enough to file dozens of lawsuits, but Chamberlain has declined in previous interviews to disclose where its money comes from. He did not respond to HuffPosts questions about the groups funding and staff.

Chamberlain has had a long career in conservative politics and media, and has shared right-wingviews on social media. He led Nevada communications for former President Donald Trumps 2016 campaign and served for four years as a communication and outreach official at Trumps Department of Education under Secretary Betsy DeVos.

Yet Chamberlain  who belonged to a Trump administration rife with scandal and corruption  has dismissed the idea that his organization is partisan.

We have affiliated researchers and consultants and people helping us who have backgrounds across administrations, he told E&E News shortly after PPTs launch. Were targeting people in the executive branch. So thats the Biden administration right now.

Those targets have included senior officials at the Interior Department, the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. PPT has leveled accusations of ethics rules violations against Nada Culver, the deputy director of policy and programs at the Bureau of Land Management, for meeting with a former employer as well as maintaining financial ties to oil giant ConocoPhillips; Elizabeth Klein, now the director of Interiors Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, for failing to disclose the full scope of her work in the private sector; and Joseph Goffman, a high-ranking EPA official, for corresponding with two former colleagues at Harvard University.

In some cases, PPTs work has led to internal probes. Interiors inspector general investigated PPTs complaint against Culver and concluded in June 2021 that she did violate agency ethics rules by meeting with a former employer, the Wilderness Society, to discuss oil and gas regulations.

PPTs work has primarily drawn the attention of conservative lawmakers and right-wing media, including Fox News, The Daily Caller, the Daily Mail and The Federalist, which do not appear to have challenged or questioned the groups nonprofit status.

The Daily Wire described PPT as a nonprofit watchdog group in a story last month.

Fox News has writtenextensively about internal emails that PPT unearthed via FOIA requests that show U.S. climate czar John Kerrys office communicating with environmental and climate organizations. In one writeup, Fox described the emails as the latest evidence that Kerrys office has communicated with far-left green groups.

More recently, Rep. Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.) pressed Interior Secretary Deb Haaland during a congressional budget hearing about when the agency planned to fulfill PPTs FOIA request seeking communications between Interior officials and Haalands adult child.

Somah Haaland works as a media adviser for Pueblo Action Alliance, an environmental justice organization that has lobbied federal officials to block oil and gas development near the Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico. Pueblo Action Alliance is a member of Build Back Fossil Free, a coalition that organized a five-day climate protest, led by Indigenous people, at Interiors headquarters in Washington, D.C., in October 2021. In the course of that protest, hundreds of activists were arrested  mostly on charges of obstruction and crowding  and there were clashes between demonstrators and police. But on the whole, the event was largely peaceful.

Nevertheless, Republicans and right-wing media outlets sought to equate that protest to the violent riot and insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

During his questioning, Rosendale employed Chamberlains talking points about the protest at Interior headquarters, calling it a riot that Somah Haaland seems to have participated in.

While a number of Biden administration officials have come to learn of PPTs work, the White House acted perplexed last April when The Hill asked it to comment on a letter in which PPT accused then-White House press secretary Jen Psaki of an apparent misuse of her official position when she publicly disparaged Fox News, a competitor of her reported future employer. (After leaving the White House, Psaki took a job as a host and analyst on MSNBC.)

Whats Protect the Publics Trust? a White House spokesperson said in response to The Hills inquiry. Is that an insurance company?

Related...
Governor Roy Cooper of North Carolina said Sunday that the states newly-passed 12-week abortion ban would endanger the access of millions of residents to the medical procedure and urged Republican legislators to resist overriding the veto he promised to sign.

It will effectively ban many abortions altogether, because of the obstacles that they have created for women, for clinics, and for doctors, Cooper told Face the Nation on Sunday.

Theyve [Republicans] dressed this up as a 12-week ban, but its really not, the governor added. They ran through a bill in 48 hours with no public input, with no amendments, that drastically reduces access to reproductive freedom for women.

On Thursday, the Republican-controlled Senate passed new restrictions capping abortions at 12 weeks, down from the previous limitation of 20 weeks. Shouts of Abortion rights now! rang from the gallery after the Senate voted on Bill 20, also known as the Care for Women, Children, and Families Act, which passed along party lines.

We are grateful more babies will be protected, Tami Fitzgerald, executive director of the NC Values Coalition, told the New York Times following the vote. The bill marks the end of North Carolina as a destination for abortion and is a historic step forward for unborn babies and their mothers.

#BREAKING: The North Carolina Senate approved a bill that would ban most abortions in the state after 12 weeks. Governor Roy Cooper is vowing to veto it, however, Republicans have a veto-proof majority. Abortion-rights advocates began chanting after the approval. pic.twitter.com/x0zrL07Un8  Louie Tran (@louie_tran) May 4, 2023

State Democrats recently suffered a major loss when Representative Tricia Cotham decided to cross party lines and join Republicans in early April.

Story continues

The modern-day Democratic Party has become unrecognizable to me and to so many others throughout this state and this country, Cotham said during a recent press conference. The party wants to villainize anyone who has free thought, free judgment, has solutions, she said. If you dont do exactly what the Democrats want you to do, they will try to bully you. They will try to cast you aside.

Democrats will "villainize anyone who has free thought, free judgement, has solutions," says North Carolina State Rep Tricia Cotham after switching parties. "If you don't do exactly what the Democrats want you to do, they will try to bully you. They will try to cast you aside." pic.twitter.com/Jhnn1TxXjK  RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 5, 2023

The move handed Republicans a supermajority in the house, alongside its dominance in the state senate, giving the party the power to override the governors veto.

Cooper has insisted that he will fight to overturn the legislation by actively calling on a handful of Republicans to throw their support behind him to deprive the party of its supermajority.

We only need one Republican to keep a promise, Cooper said during the Sunday interview.

At least four Republican legislators made promises to their constituents during this campaign that they were going to protect womens reproductive freedom. They only have a supermajority by one vote in the Senate, and one vote in the House. And weve seen Republicans across the country step up. We saw them step up in South Carolina, we saw them step up in Nebraska, because they know that people dont want abortion bans.

This bill has nothing to do with making women safer, and everything to do with banning their reproductive freedom. pic.twitter.com/nfBagT3ijz  Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) May 4, 2023

Cooper specifically named Cotham, along with three other Republican lawmakers, in a video address released last Thursday in a bid to undermine support for the bill and dismantle its veto-proof supermajority.

We only need one Republican in either the House or Senate to help sustain the veto of this dangerous abortion ban. Ted Davis, Michael Lee, John Bradford, and Tricia Cotham promised to protect womens reproductive freedom. Theres still time for them to keep their promises, the governor tweeted following the news Thursday night.

The bill will go into effect July 1 if Cooper fails to find a willing Republican.

More from National Review
Aim of labels is to ensure that goods for Northern Ireland are able to be moved within UK without restriction - Charles McQuillan/Getty Images Europe

Milk, butter, meat, fish and vegetables will be labelled not for EU across the whole of the UK, and not just Northern Ireland, under Brexit plans being discussed by the Government and supermarkets.

Retailers have demanded more details from officials in meetings over the new labelling rules, which are part of Rishi Sunaks Windsor Framework agreement with the EU, and start coming into force in October.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith demanded the Prime Minister ditch the ridiculous regulations, which would apply in Britain from Oct 2024, even though mainland Britain is an island with no land border with the EU.

They should drop it. It will be seen as ludicrous, the former Tory leader said in comments that could damage Mr Sunak further after the Conservatives' drubbing in local elections.

"This is not why we left the EU. We were meant to be leaving the EU to deregulate, not to over-regulate.

There is no good reason why food produced and sold in any part of the United Kingdom should be labelled not for EU, much less if it is sold in mainland Great Britain, said former Cabinet minister David Jones.

Nigel Dodds, the DUP peer, said it was nonsense that the labels would appear in Liverpool, Harrogate and Leeds, as well as Northern Ireland.

This is a massive added cost and inconvenience on all British producers. These stickers have to go on every single individual prepackaged food item, he said.

Impact British businesses

He warned that it would also impact British businesses exporting food to the EU and condemn them to extra costs.

This is a proportionate and necessary means of ensuring goods moving in the green lane will only be sold to consumers in Northern Ireland, a Defra spokesman said and added the Government would support businesses through the changes.

The labelling requirements can be met in a variety of ways, including on the label itself or over-stickering, and are seen by officials as vital to ensure the same goods are on the shelves across the whole UK, without supply chains changing in Northern Ireland.

Story continues

A European Union official also defended the new rules and said Brussels had worked hard to find joint solutions with the UK to ease the movement of goods from GB to NI

This is important to protect the Single Market. The requirements will be introduced in a phased and transparent manner, the official said.

Northern Ireland continued to follow hundreds of EU rules after Brexit to prevent a hard Irish border with EU member Ireland in a treaty which grants lucrative dual access to both the UK and European markets.

Border checks were moved to the Irish Sea and have now been reduced by Mr Sunaks new Brexit deal, which was agreed in February.

From October, British food sent to Northern Ireland supermarkets can be put in the green lane. This spares the goods Irish Sea border checks for EU standards, provided they carry the not for EU label.

The label reassures Brussels that the food, which escapes checks to see if it adheres to European rules, is less likely to cross from Northern Ireland into EU member Ireland.

But in a concession to Brussels, Mr Sunak agreed the not for EU label would eventually apply on many staples of British shelves.

UK officials also believe the UK-wide label would spare producers having to do costly separate labelling runs for the GB and much smaller NI market of about 2m people.

Labels for meat, milk and dairy are pencilled in to go UK-wide from October next year, if devolved governments in Wales and Scotland agree, and be put on fruit, vegetables and fish sold in Britain from July 2025.

Deadline too tight

Retailers fear this Octobers deadline for the labels in Northern Ireland will be too tight, especially as details on which products will be covered by the requirement are still lacking.

If we dont see guidance soon and it is workable there will be problems in October for supply chains, said Andrew Opie, of the British Retail Consortium. Everyone wants to make this work so its probably worth the UK having a discussion with the EU now about compliance rather than waiting until closer to October.

The Government has agreed to subsidise the cost of introducing the new label to ensure that friction over the Irish sea border can be eased.

Peter Summerton, managing director of hauliers McCulla Ireland, predicted that the Government would have to subsidise businesses to the tune of tens of million of pounds.

Even then that would not stop supply chains for Northern Ireland shifting from British firms to EU ones, especially in the Republic, he told The Telegraph.

But Sarah Hards, of AM Logistics, also in Northern Ireland, said the new Brexit deal was vastly superior to the alternatives on offer.

She insisted that if the new arrangements got up and running, British supply chains to Northern Ireland would prove stronger and cheaper than European alternatives.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A former nurse was caught stealing narcotics while working as a nursing student at two separate hospitals in the Boston area, federal prosecutors said.

At one hospital, the woman was found injecting herself with stolen fentanyl in the facilitys bathroom, according to court documents. She was stationed at the hospitals post-anesthesia care unit at the time, court documents say.

Another hospital hired her after she applied without disclosing the 2018 incident and without mentioning that the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing was investigating her over it, according to prosecutors.

Now, on May 8, a judge has sentenced the woman, 33, of St. Petersburg, Florida, to five years of probation for diverting opioids, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Massachusetts announced in a news release.

She will spend the first year of probation in home detention, officials said.

McClatchy News contacted attorney Raymond Sayeg Jr., who represented the woman in the case, for comment on May 8 and didnt immediately receive a response.

Her sentencing came after prosecutors recommended a six-month prison sentence or six months of home confinement instead, according to a sentencing memo.

Sayeg had argued against a prison sentence for his client, citing her lack of a criminal record and no prior history involving stealing or using opioids, a sentencing memo he submitted on her behalf says.

He wrote that his client was self-medicating her own anxiety and depression  particularly during the early COVID-19 pandemic  and her actions didnt involve harming others or selling or distributing substances for profit or other gain.

More on the case

The case dates to 2018, when the woman was working as a Student Nurse Anesthetist after receiving her nursing license in 2017, according to the governments sentencing memo.

On Aug. 23, 2018, she was found injecting herself with fentanyl in the post-care anesthesia unit bathroom, the sentencing memo says.

Story continues

Fentanyl is about 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and is used to treat patients with severe pain. It can be highly addictive, and illegal use of the drug has been linked to the rise in overdose deaths in the U.S., according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

During an investigation, a search of the bathroom and the womans hospital locker revealed an empty fentanyl syringe, containers of the prescription opioid sufentanil, the opioid hydromorphone, morphine and alcohol swabs, according to the sentencing memo.

Afterward, the woman was hired at a second Boston-area hospital where she was first stationed in the cardiac catheterization lab, prosecutors said.

Fentanyl stolen from patients infusion bag

When the pandemic began in March 2020, the woman was transferred to a medical intensive care unit where several patients were hospitalized with COVID-19, according to prosecutors.

Many of these COVID-19 patients received fentanyl through an IV infusion bag as a sedative, the sentencing memo says.

On May 24, 2020, the woman stole a patients infusion bag with fentanyl inside as they were being treated with the narcotic, according to prosecutors.

The same day, she took a Narcan kit out of the hospitals locked drug cabinet, the sentencing memo says. Narcan is used to treat opioid overdoses.

In 2020, the woman was also caught stealing hydromorphone syringes from the hospitals drug cabinet, prosecutors said.

The woman was fired when her wrongful conduct was discovered, according to the sentencing memo submitted by Sayeg.

The stress of the mandatory placement in the intensive care unit due to the COVID pandemic (and closure of the cath lab) proved too much for her and in 2020 she diverted medication for personal use to cope with stress and anxiety, Sayeg wrote.

He added that using opioids made her feel functional and helped her with panic attacks, the sentencing memo says.

After she was caught stealing opioids in 2020, she permanently forfeited her nursing license, according to the sentencing memo.

The woman pleaded guilty to four counts of unlawfully obtaining controlled substances by fraud, deception and subterfuge in October 2022, the release said.

Nurse stole painkillers for hospital patients and swapped in saline, feds say

Nurse practitioner prescribed pills to have sex with women, promote TV show, feds say

Paramedic on ambulance shift injects himself with fentanyl meant for patients, feds say

Nurse caught stealing fentanyl from critical care patients IV bag in hospital, feds say
OAKLAND, Calif. (AP)  The Roman Catholic Diocese of Oakland filed for bankruptcy Monday due to hundreds of new child sex abuse claims, becoming the second diocese in California to do so.

The San Francisco Bay Area diocese faces more than 330 lawsuits brought under a California law allowing claims that would have otherwise expired, Bishop Michael C. Barber said in a letter posted to the diocese's website.

Most of them allege abuse that dates back to the 1980s and earlier, according to Barber, and by priests who are no longer active in ministry or deceased. He said a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization would ensure a fair and equitable outcome for survivors and allow the church to continue its work.

SNAP, a survivors network for clergy sex abuse victims, criticized the bankruptcy filing, calling it a ploy to keep information hidden. In a statement, it said the Oakland diocese could sell off property to compensate victims.

The Diocese of Oakland is morally bankrupt, but they do not deserve to be declared financially bankrupt, SNAP said.

In March, the Diocese of Santa Rosa became the first in California to file for Chapter 11 protection, saying it could not pay out potential claims topping 200.

The Oakland Diocese serves about 550,000 Catholics in the East Bay region.
The Russians are conducting an evacuation in Energodar

The official said that by announcing the evacuation, the Russians provoked panic in the town, especially among those who have obtained Russian passports.

The first wave of evacuation began yesterday (May 6) morning, but we cant call it a mass (evacuation) at the moment, he said.

Some of the people who wanted to leave were loaded onto buses. Some left in their own cars. Accordingly, gas stations ran out of fuel yesterday. ATMs arent working or are working with great restrictions, and there is actually nowhere to withdraw money. The Internet is partially down. On the other hand, the prices of food and medicines have risen significantly.

Read also: Russia planning to abduct children from occupied Enerhodar

Orlov noted that all this was taking place under the slogans no panic and the local authorities continue to work.

However, according to the mayor, the occupation administration has actually suspended its work.Passport offices and several departments of the so-called administrationwere the first to be closed, he said.

They took away documents and equipment, including the one that belonged to our administrative service center and was seized by the rashists (Russian fascists).

Orlov said that overnight on May 7 and in the morning, the invaders began to take medical equipment out of the hospital, which was first sorted and then loaded onto cars.

Read also: Management at ZNPP attempting to flee en masse, Kyiv says

Also, several hospital departments have suspended work, while patients are advised to evacuate, he added.

The first wave of the Russian evacuation also included categories of the civilian population that were announced by the invaders themselves. However, according to Orlov, not everyone agrees to leave.Currently, there is no information that the evacuation is taking place by force, the mayor said.

Earlier, the Russians announced the evacuation of at least 18 settlements in the occupied part of Ukraines Zaporizhzhya Oblast.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
In Kherson Oblast, in the city of Skadovsk, Russians began calling a halt to the activity of district and city administrations, loading up their transport with documents and leaving town.

Source: General Staff on Facebook

Quote: "In the city of Skadovsk, the activities of district and city administrations have reportedly been stopped. So, on the night of 6-7 May, Russians loaded documentation, office equipment and other property of state institutions onto road transport. On the morning of 7 May, together with their families, a significant part of the Russian occupation administration left the city."

Details: Currently, a similar situation is also being observed in the settlements of Mykhailivka, Petrivka, Shevchenka, Shyroke, Ulianivka and Krasne, Kherson Oblast.

The General Staff also reported that due to kilometres-long traffic jams at the entry to Crimea and near the Kerch Bridge, plans are to carry out the removal of documentation and looted property from state institutions of the temporarily occupied Kherson Oblast by sea, using a dry cargo ship, through the Port of Berdiansk.

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TOMS RIVER  When Jeanne Daidone lost her house in Beachwood last February with nowhere to go after a series of financial setbacks, she turned to the Ocean County Board of Social Services for help.

What she got, she said, was a lecture from a world-weary social worker.

They said, poor planning to me, Daidone said. Look, I'm 60 years old. Poor planning? Life can throw you all kinds of curve balls.  The best-laid plans change.

Daidone found empathy and a place to stay with the local nonprofit charity Just Believe, which operates a Code Blue warming shelter in the winter months out of the Riverwood Park Recreation Center in Toms River. But as the center is only permitted to operate when the temperature drops to 35 degrees and below, it was a temporary and rather brief fix.

Eventually, Paul Hulse, Just Believes chief executive officer, helped Daidone navigate the bureaucratic labyrinth of the countys social services agency. In March, she was placed in a local motel, where she found the conditions unsanitary and the room unsafe. The door to her room and a back window are both broken.

You work hard your whole life and you do the right thing, and you think that if you need something, someones gonna be there, she said. And its not, there's no safety net. Not that anyone owes me a damn.

With a population of almost 650,000  larger than the states of Vermont and Wyoming  Ocean County has no full-time homeless shelter or transitional housing for the 114 people on average who are placed in some form of emergency housing here each night. Currently, about 700 people in the county are receiving some type of government assistance to supplement the cost of their housing, according to data from the Board of Social Services.

'I don't feel safe': Ocean County ignored slain homeless woman's pleas; paid estate $1.5M

Jeanne Daidone has recently become homeless after losing her home of 23 years after financial hardships. The Ocean County Board of Social Services has put her up at a motel in Toms River.

Not the Ritz-Carlton

To house people seeking emergency shelter, the county relies mostly on 10 motels in Toms River and Seaside Heights  with one in Atlantic County  that it contracts with to serve that function. In every case, these motels make most of their money during the summer tourism season but supplement their business all year round by putting the homeless up at the cost to the taxpayer.

Story continues

I dont think any of us would argue that these motels are not  its not the Ritz-Carlton, said Meredith Sheehan, director of the Board of Social Services. We work with the motels that are willing to work with us. We send out bids.

Daidone said she doesnt feel safe at the motel. The door to the room and a back window are broken. Grime is abound. She wraps her hair at night because she said she has seen bugs in the bed. The housekeeping staff told her they have been instructed not to change the sheets for its homeless-designated rooms, she said.

Daidone doesn't feel say in the motel: Doors and windows are broken.

So, I took them off myself and I tried to wash them in the shower and hang them up, she said.

Not easy to do when the water in the bathroom has to run for about 20 minutes before it gets hot. Nevertheless, she doesnt want to seem ungrateful. At least she has a roof over her head. There are many others who are homeless in Ocean County who have long since been abandoned by the system and have moved into the woods, she explained.

The state Department of Community Affairs is responsible for inspecting motels to make certain they are fit for occupancy, Sheehan said.

The county agency also has an employee on staff called a human services specialist who will go out to a motel to address any such complaints when they come to the attention of her staff.

In the case of the motel in which Daidone had been placed, a state inspector had been to the premises twice between February and March, but found no evidence of any of the sanitary and security concerns that Daidone had raised to the Asbury Park Press, Sheehan said.

They didnt see those issues, Sheehan said.

As for the accusation that the motel management was instructing housekeeping staff not to change the sheets on the beds, Sheehan said that would alarming if true.

Well, if thats true, we need to know about that, Sheehan said. Because thats unacceptable. Completely unacceptable. Its not OK to live in conditions where there are bed bugs or broken doors, or things like that. But I assure you, as soon as were aware, we investigate those complaints.

Daidone says it takes about 20 minutes to get hot water in the bathroom. She uses it to wash the sheets.

Depression-era bureaucracy

Colleen R. Golin, counsel for the Social Services board, said much of how the board functions today remains based on so-called poor laws from the Depression-era 1930s and 1940s.

Of course, the programs administered have evolved.

The county government funds $17 million in local taxpayer money while the state and federal governments contribute the greatest share for a total annual operating budget of $50 million to administer a whole network of more than 50 social services  from New Jersey's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families  that most people still refer to as welfare.

In order to be eligible for emergency shelter, a person must already be receiving some form of public assistance, such as supplemental security income, general assistance or the needy family assistance.

So, if you came in as somebody with no income, we would first help you to apply for (general assistance) or (temporary assistance for needy families), we administer those, Sheehan said. Then, if youre eligible for that, we would then assess whether youre eligible for emergency assistance.

The board has a couple of ways of doing that, Sheehan said.

Everything we do is based on regulation, she said. We dont create the programs. We dont come up with the policy or the regs. We get that from the state and the feds. So, we have to assess based on a persons situation if theyre eligible based on the regulation for that program.

A person who is eligible for emergency assistance might be assessed for substance abuse or mental health issues if there is cause to suspect that such circumstances exist. In that event, there are programs a person may be eligible for based on a referral from a professional.

If somebody came in and, you know, is acting as if theyre under the influence, well, we wouldnt maybe look to place them (in a motel) because we want to make sure theyre safe, Sheehan said.

There are different types of shelters available, whether its a residential healthcare facility, an out-of-county shelter, a motel room, or even a treatment center for alcohol or drug addiction.

We look at the person as a whole, and often well have a social worker also meet with them to make an assessment and help us determine the most appropriate form of housing  if theyre eligible.

However, Sheehan said the board does not keep statistics breaking down such data.

Moreover, theres no guarantee that the county will provide emergency shelter to a person who walks in from the street looking for a place to stay for the night, she said.

Its not a guarantee, Sheehan said. However, we do not let anybody leave our agency without resources or referrals. So, maybe somebodys not eligible for emergency assistance. We may look to one of our grant programs. We may look at some of the different sheltering options in Ocean County, which we have many: Family Promise, maybe Providence House  (if) it may be a DV (domestic violence) situation; Samaritan House.  Maybe theyre not appropriate for a motel. Maybe they need a higher level of care. Maybe they need to be in a residential healthcare facility, where somebody can oversee their daily needs.

There are so many people like me' Homeless mom's story highlights growing problem

More: Lunch Break expects to do more for needy with expanded Red Bank headquarters

Finding emergency shelter in Ocean County

The number of motels that submit bids to Social Services has been declining in recent years as property values in Ocean County continue to soar and the kind of mostly seasonal mom-and-pop motels that were once a staple of the Shore are sold off to developers interested in building upscale housing.

We can only send out bids and the motels that want to work with us are willing to work with us and that number's gotten smaller over time, Sheehan said.

Ten years ago, 15 of the 26 motels that operated in Seaside Heights in 2013 contracted with the county Board of Social Services and set aside up to 20% of their rooms to shelter the countys homeless.

Seaside Heights Mayor Anthony Vaz said the county must do more.

Ive been an advocate for God knows how many years  25 years, maybe longer, Vaz said. "We need a facility in Ocean County, just like you have in Monmouth County, Passaic, Bergen County, a homeless shelter where these people can get the necessary help that they need with doctors facilities, transportation.

The Monmouth County homeless shelter is located at Fort Monmouth in Oceanport, NJ.

Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn does not disagree. He said where the county once had 25 motels to house the homeless, there were 10 today  with one in Egg Harbor Township in Atlantic County.

Going back decades, Ocean County has been criticized as being the only county without some form of government-supported homeless shelter or transitional housing for the homeless. Since Quinns election in 2018, he has sought to soften the boards position on the issue.

Weve been battling for the last couple years to try and come up with other alternatives, Quinn said. And certainly, transitional housing is something that weve all talked about.

Quinn said the county government has sought a capable and willing partner in a number of non-profit organizations that could establish a transitional housing facility. For example, Monmouth County has partnered with Catholic Charities to shelter homeless families in need, he said.

Its not that the county doesnt want to have a shelter  well, really (a) transitional housing facility  its that the county doesnt want to run it and be operating it, Quinn said. Because once you get government involved, the cost skyrockets and its just not manageable like it would be with a nonprofit.

We dont have, at this point in time, a plan in place where we have a nonprofit willing to step up, he said. Were willing to put up money, were willing to do everything we have to do.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the county Board of Commissioners has diverted about $25 million from its share of the Emergency Rental Relief Program  for county households that had a loss of income as a result of the crisis  to beef up its social services programs, Quinn said.

Because COVID created a lot of problems and we have to try and find ways to deal with that, he said.

The men's sleeping area at the homeless shelter in Monmouth County.

County commissioners: We can do better

Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea said that she is exploring a potential option that was dismissed by a different board more than a decade ago: establishing a homeless trust fund.

Under state law since 2009, counties have the authority to add a surcharge for some paid services provided in the Ocean County Clerks Office, for the specific purpose of providing shelter to low-income people in their jurisdictions.

However, successive all-Republican boards in Ocean County in the past have repeatedly dismissed proposals to add the surcharge, interpreting it as a stealthy way of introducing a new tax on the public and they have opposed its implementation on ideological grounds.

Quinn and Crea, who represent the county commissioners on the Social Services board, indicated that a majority of county commissioners are now likely to take a different view.

I think it's very important, Crea said. I think its our responsibility to try to help people because they didnt ask to be put in these situations. We need to help them.

We, in the past, we didnt have the support, you know, but I think in the next month or two you should see that come through, Quinn said.

There will be (support), Crea said.

Jeanne Daidone feels 'dehumanized' living in a motel. She says a homeless shelter would give her a sense of community.

Daidone said she would rather be in a shelter than in a motel room, where there would be a sense of community and services to help her get back on her feet.

Youre dehumanized, Daidone said. Youre not, youre not like a human anymore.  The only place that did make me feel human again, I told you, was at Just Believe. And that's the truth. Those people are fabulous. And if they could do more, I know they would do it. I know that their hands are tied.

Hulse said when the warming shelter in Riverwood Park was open this past winter, 26 people per night on average were taking the opportunity to come in from the cold.

During the winter season of 2021-22, the recreation center had provided emergency shelter to 129 guests when conditions permitted it to open on 109 days. This season, the shelter provided the same service to 145 guests even though a milder winter meant that the center was open for 78 days, he said.

There is a growing need, Hulse said.

The organization screens those who wish to come to the shelter at the Toms River bus terminal six miles away, where theyre picked up in vans operated by the organization, he said.

We have protocols, so you cant come in like totally intoxicated; wasted and drunk, Hulse said. We check bags, so we make sure its safe. We ask them to empty their pockets.  We try to keep it as safe as possible.

Once checked out, a guest is on the honor system  free to come and go, step outside in the middle of the night for a smoke if need be, he explained.

We always have two facilitators on the floor, he said. So, if theres a problem, they can go right to one of the guys, or myself. And, you know, its a good system.

If someone needs rehab, they work to get that person into such a facility. If they can help get someone situated into permanent housing, theyll make the effort to see what can be done.

In March, Hulse was working on getting 35 people  including a recent Army veteran  into Section 8 housing. The former soldier had been living in a tent and coming to the warming shelter when conditions enabled Hulse to open.

Im fighting with Social Services on his behalf and trying to get his stuff squared away, Hulse said. So, we dont stop working. Even though Code Blue might end, our fight doesnt end.  Were still trying to help these guys.

The government bureaucracy, with its dispassionate rules and regulations, is the most challenging obstacle to getting people the help they need  even for a professional like Hulse who knows his way around the system.

And while Hulse maintains good relations with the county Board of Commissioners, he is frustrated that its members seem perpetually poised to do something to better address the homeless issue in Ocean County, but seem unable to follow through.

I get so tired of banging on doors that dont open, Hulse said. And thats what I've seen. So Im like, OK, theres got to be somebody out here in the community that wants to do something. I keep hearing some names pop up about how theyve got money and they want to build the shelter. Call me. Lets go. Im ready. Lets sit down and have a conversation. Lets put some ink to the pen and lets get something going. Lets get serious because were ready.

Asbury Park Press reporter Kathleen Hopkins contributed to this story.

Contact Asbury Park Press reporter Erik Larsen at elarsen@gannettnj.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Homeless shelters not the 'Ritz-Carlton' in Ocean County
The number of law enforcement officers who were killed by criminal acts in the line of duty in the United States has more than doubled in nearly a decade, according to new statistics released by the FBI on Monday.

Sixty officers were killed by criminal acts nationwide in 2022, a decrease of 17.8% when compared to the 73 officers who were killed as a result of criminal acts in 2021, according to new statistics released Monday by the FBI.

Comparatively, the FBI said in 2018, 57 officers were killed by criminal acts in the line of duty and in 2013, 27 officers were killed in this manner.

One-fifth of the officers killed by criminal acts in 2022 -- 12 officers -- were ambushed when they were slain, the FBI said.

Family of Yarmouth Police Sgt. Sean Gannon pens open letter to mark 5-year anniversary of his death

The stunning increase in line-of-duty deaths by criminal acts were highlighted in the FBIs 2022 Statistics on Law Enforcement Officers Killed in the Line of Duty released Monday.

A total of 118 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents nationwide in 2022. Of these officer line-of-duty deaths, 58 resulted from accidents, with 35 of these officers killed motor vehicle crashes, the FBI said.

In 2021, 129 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents; Of these, 73 died as a result of criminal acts and 56 in accidents.

Of the 60 officer deaths resulting from criminal acts in 2022, three occurred in the northeast. These average age of officers killed by criminal acts was 39 years old, with an average of seven years serving in law enforcement, the FBI said.

Offenders used firearms to kill 49 of the 60 officers who died by criminal acts in 2022, the FBI said. Three officers were killed with vehicles used as weapons, and eight officers were killed by the offenders use of personal weapons, such as a hand, fists, or feet.

Remembering Sgt. Michael Chesna: Weymouth police officer laid to rest

Of the 60 officers killed by criminal acts in 2022: 12 officers were ambushed (entrapment/premeditation); 12 officers died as a result of investigative/enforcement activities; six officers were killed in unprovoked attacks; four officers encountered/assisted an emotionally-disturbed person; four officers were involved in pursuits; six officers responded to disorders/disturbances; six officers were involved in tactical situations; one officer was involved in arrest situation; three officers responded to crimes in progress; three officers were assisting other law enforcement officers; two were serving/attempting to serve a court order and one officer was providing/deploying equipment (flares, traffic cones).

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Also, of the 51 alleged assailants accused in the 2022 in officer line-of-duty deaths by criminal acts, 10 had prior criminal arrests.

The average age of officers killed accidentally in 2022 was 39, with an average of 11 years serving in law enforcement.

Of the 58 officers killed accidentally in 2022: 35 died as a result of motor vehicle crashes; 13 were pedestrian officers struck by vehicles; six officers were in an aircraft crash; two officers were killed in a fall; and two died as a result of a firearm-related incident.

For more information on officer line-of-duty deaths, visit the FBIs Crime Data Explorer page.

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Less than a day after Mayor Eric Adams announced his plan for New York City to relocate illegal migrants to hotels in Rockland and Orange Counties, elected officials in both areas have rejected the idea and declared a state of emergency in response.

It felt like they were trying to do a Friday night drop, Orangetown regional supervisor Teresa Kenny told the New York Times. I feel like the mayor called me to check a box so he couldnt be criticized for not talking to us, the administrator added.

A similar note was struck by Ed Day, a Rockland County executive, adding that he was stunned by Adamss announcement.

Whatever we need to do to stop this, we will do, the Republican official told the Times on Sunday in an interview. Theyre basically dumping them into a county where were not prepared for them, he said.

Day even stipulated that Rockland County was prepared to issue thousand-dollar fines for any hotels that accepted migrants attached to the mayors program.

Adams announcement also drew the condemnation of Representative Mike Lawler (R., N.Y.), whose district includes Rockland County. Mayor Eric Adams must not send migrants to Rockland County as part of his plan to alleviate the strain New York City is under, the Border Caucus and House Foreign Affairs Committee member said.

Rockland County is not a sanctuary county, unlike New York City and its boroughs, and should not bear the costs associated with the Biden administrations abject failure on border security and immigration policy.

More than 60,000 asylum seekers have entered New York since last Spring with nearly three-quarters remaining under the care of the city, Fox News reports. Adams has converted over 100 hotels in New York City to serve as emergency shelters in response to the crisis.

The move comes as Title 42, a pandemic-era public-health measure that allows Border Patrol to immediately expel illegal immigrants, is set to expire on Thursday as America braces for a potential influx of illegal migrants.

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President Joe Biden dispatched 1,500 soldiers to the Southern border last Tuesday in anticipation of the surge.

More from National Review
Gov. Kevin Stitt poses Monday with several people, including members of the Jewish faith community, after a ceremony at the Capitol.

Gov. Kevin Stitt proclaimed the month of May as Jewish American Heritage Month in Oklahoma during a ceremony on Monday at the state Capitol.

Adam Beren, founder of the Combat Antisemitism Movement, said Oklahoma was the 31st state in the U.S. to partner with his organization to highlight the many ways Jewish Americans have contributed to the country by proclaiming the special designation for the month.

Monday's ceremony was hosted by the governor's office in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City and the Combat Antisemitism Movement, an Israel-based organization with an office in Washington, D.C. Beren said similar ceremonies were being held in more than 150 cities across 31 states.

Proclamation 'gave us all hope to better combat antisemitism'

Stitt shared a few remarks with the crowd of about 40 people before reading a Jewish American Heritage Month proclamation.

"As we gather together to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, we're reminded of the values that make our state and our nation great," he said. "Among these values is religious freedoms for everyone, so in Oklahoma, we are so proud to honor and respect the religious diversities of our communities. We're home to thousands of Jewish Oklahomans and we celebrate the richness of our cultures and the contributions that each bring to our state."

Rachel Johnson, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Oklahoma City, said the federation was grateful to Stitt's office for hosting the ceremony.

More: Oklahoma City 'Challah Prince' workshop stop imparts both breadmaking artistry and unity

"Thank you for declaring today Jewish American Heritage Month because we are not just Jews, but we're Jewish Americans and we're Jewish Okies," she told the governor.

After the ceremony, she said the proclamation "gave us all hope to better combat antisemitism because, while we wish it wasn't still happening, there are still antisemitic incidents occurring in schools."

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Also on hand for the ceremony were other representatives of the Jewish Federation-OKC, along with leaders from Oklahoma Israel Exchange, Hillel Foundation at the University of Oklahoma, Chabad Community Center for Jewish Life and Learning, Temple B'nai Israel and Emanuel Synagogue.

Barry J. Schneider, a retired U.S. Army major from Fort Worth, Texas, spoke on behalf of the Jewish War Veterans of the U.S. organization.

Gov. Kevin Stitt talks with Rabbi Ovadia Goldman after a ceremony on Monday at the state Capitol in which the governor declared May as "Jewish American Heritage Month" in Oklahoma.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond and House Speaker Charles McCall shared remarks, and Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat was also among the elected state leaders who attended the event.

Event was governor's first event with state's Jewish faith community since controversial prayer video

The ceremony was the first public event Stitt has held in conjunction with Oklahoma's Jewish faith community since several leaders of the Jewish Federation-OKC and the Jewish Federation of Tulsa, along with an Oklahoma City rabbi, met with him in January after he claimed "every square inch" of Oklahoma for Jesus. He made the statement as he gave a prayer that was recorded and was subsequently the focus of a viral social media video that sparked controversy both in Oklahoma and nationally.

More: Oklahoma synagogue hosts first in-person post-pandemic Passover Seder

Stitt consistently has been outspoken about his Christian faith, beginning with his first gubernatorial campaign and throughout his first term. However, his comments, made shortly after his successful reelection bid in November 2023, hit a sour note with some Oklahoma Jewish leaders, prompting a Jewish contingent to request the January meeting with him to share their concerns about his statement. The Interfaith Alliance of Oklahoma; the American Jewish Committee, a national Jewish advocacy group; and officials with the Freedom From Religion Foundation also spoke out against his comments.

Monday, Rabbi Ovadia Goldman, spiritual leader of the Chabad-OKC, encouraged those gathered to share their light to help dispel the darkness of hate and division.

"Most Americans have deeply rooted core values that are the underpinnings of our foundational values that we see in our Declaration of Independence and Pledge of Allegiance," he said. "A day like today has to inspire us, in voice and in deed, to bring to expression those deep-seated values that we know to be true."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: 'Jewish American Heritage Month' declared at Oklahoma Capitol
Reservists drafted during Russia's partial mobilization at a departure ceremony in Sevastopol in September. STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images

Recent changes to Russian conscription law indicate Moscow is preparing for a long war in Ukraine.

The changes make it easier to call up new troops and harder for Russians to avoid those call-ups.

Beyond a need for manpower, the changes may reflect the Kremlin's embrace of more heavy-handed rule.

The Kremlin expected a short war and a quick victory when it ordered Russian forces to invade Ukraine in February 2022. But Russian leaders appear to preparing for a long and bloody fight, judging by a series of new measures related to military conscription.

"Russia is taking, step by step, the necessary legal mechanisms that they need to do to transition the economy and transition the country to something that approaches, potentially, a wartime footing," Dara Massicot, an expert on the Russian military at the RAND Corporation think tank, said during an event hosted by Georgetown University in April.

The Russian government is "methodically stepping through a process to go over to a higher readiness and protracted war," Massicot added.

For example, lawmakers amended Russia's conscription law in April to allow the government to send digital draft notices that will be valid upon being posted rather than paper summonses that had to be signed by the recipient to be valid. Those who receive summonses and fail to appear at recruitment offices will face a variety of penalties, such as not being allowed to register a car or to leave the country.

A Russian army recruitment station in Moscow in April. Vlad Karkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Since late 2022, Russia has made several "of these esoteric legislative changes, where it's tightening penalties on draft evasion, essentially putting a stop-loss in place for everybody," Massicot said. "No one can actually leave the military right now unless they're medically discharged."

Massicot believes that the Kremlin is trying to avoid a repeat of the "partial mobilization" fiasco in 2022, when Russia attempted to conscript 300,000 men. That prompted hundreds of thousands of educated or affluent young Russians flee abroad, decimating the country's intellectual capital. It also called up thousands of Russian unsuited for or exempt from military service, leading to a rare admission from Putin that "mistakes" were made.

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For those who stayed in Russia, the process was chaotic. "They couldn't find people," Massicot said. "They were mobilizing the wrong people because they had a quota-incentive system. They just passed mistakes up the chain until the chain fixed it and kicked things back down."

The government has now shifted the burden of complying with conscription laws on to the individual citizen. "If you don't comply, all these penalties come on you," Massicot said. "If you don't report, you lose your driver's license. There are all sorts of issues that go on with your electronic pay."

Russians depart from Moscow in October after being called up in Moscow's partial mobilization. Sefa Karacan/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Russia has suffered 100,000 casualties  including 20,000 dead  in just 15 months, according to US intelligence estimates.

The dismal performance of Russia's military has forced Moscow to rely masses of poorly trained and armed troops, including mercenaries and paroled inmates, to simply overwhelm outnumbered Ukrainian forces, an approach that has had mixed success and is adding to already heavy losses.

If the war drags on, this will create an unsustainable need for manpower. Russia has tried voluntary incentives, such as enlistment bonuses, and pay for draftees that in some cases is higher than for their officers. But these inducements threaten to consume a defense budget that must already replace thousands of destroyed armored vehicles and scores of aircraft.

With Russia now sending troops into battle in tanks from the 1940s, even high pay may not generate much enthusiasm among conscripts and potential enlistees.

Beyond the need for cannon fodder, the new laws may reflect the Kremlin's embrace of more heavy-handed rule  returning to a kind of governance that some Russians would rather forget.

Dmitry Medvedev tours Russia's biggest tank factory. Getty Images

That can be seen in gestures by some Russian leaders  like Dmitry Medvedev touring a tank factory in a black leather trench coat and reading a World War II-era telegram from Stalin to exhort the leaders of defense firms.

"That's political theater," Massicot said of Medvedev's antics, "but the legislative changes are actually really troubling."

"It shows that they're marching along this process to click over more authorities to the federal government," Massicot added. "In Russia, mobilization and martial law actually go hand-in-hand. You can't necessarily have one without the other, at least in terms of how they conceptualize it doctrinally."

Nonetheless, the clampdown on draft evasion won't necessarily eliminate it.

"Do I think that people could still get out of Russia if they know the right border guard, if they're willing to bribe, or if they're willing to go through a porous part of the border?" Massicot said. "If they're motivated to do so and they have the resources, yes."

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
One of four people implicated in the torture and murder of a New York City man in Elmira more than two years ago has pleaded guilty to a murder charge in that case and kidnapping in a separate case.

Malik M. Weems, 20, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is one of four people who were charged in connection with the January 2021 torture and murder of 39-year-old Juan Jose Gotay.

In Chemung County Court on Friday, Weems pleaded guilty in front of Judge Ottavio Campanella to a count of second-degree murder, in full satisfaction of the indictment against him.

He also pleaded guilty to first-degree kidnapping after admitting he abducted a man in early April 2021 with the intent to compel a third person to pay ransom.

Chemung County District Attorney Weeden Wetmore, foreground, is joined by various law enforcement officials Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, to discuss details of the investigation into the torture and murder of a New York City man in Elmira.

A Chemung County grand jury initially indicted Thomas E. Bovaird, 23, of Horseheads, on charges of first-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping, first-degree assault, and three counts of second-degree assault in connection with Gotay's death.

Weems and Eddie Marte, 27, of New York City, were later indicted on the same charges.

Marte and Weems were also implicated in an unrelated April 2021 kidnapping and torture of a victim in Geneva, Ontario County.

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A fourth person, who was 16 at the time of Gotay's death, couldn't be charged with first-degree murder since he was under 18, according to Chief Assistant District Attorney Susan Rider-Ulacco, who is prosecuting the case.

He was charged in Chemung County Youth Part with second-degree murder, first-degree kidnapping, two counts of first-degree assault, and two counts of second-degree assault.

Gotay was beaten and tortured around Jan. 29 and Jan. 30, 2021 at two houses on Elmira's Southside, 427-429 Partridge St. and 319 West Ave., according to the indictments.

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Gotay was tortured and killed "in an especially cruel and wanton manner," the indictment stated.

The indictments allege the group shot Gotay in the left shoulder and left leg, repeatedly struck him in the face and body, causing, among other things, traumatic injuries to his head, including his jaw, mouth, and teeth, along with multiple broken ribs and fingers.

They are also accused of stabbing the victim in the eyes with a pointed object, mutilating his tongue, burning his ears and buttocks, and binding him with an electrical cord.

Men in Hazmat suits enter an apartment at 427 Partridge St. in Elmira on Thursday, May 6, 2021 during an investigation that eventually led to the indictment of three men on murder and other felony charges.

They allegedly then dumped Gotay's body in a remote area along U.S. Route 6 in Ulysses Township, Potter County, where his remains were discovered in April 2021.

No motive for Gotay's murder has ever been made public.

Weems admitted in court to his involvement in Gotay's torture and killing. The other three defendants are still awaiting trial in that case.

Weems, who was represented by defense attorney David Morabito Sr., is scheduled to be sentenced July 14.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, he faces a minimum of 18 years and a maximum of life in prison on the murder charge, and 15 years to life on the kidnapping charge. The sentences will run concurrently.

Weems remains in custody at the Chemung County jail, pending his sentencing. Bovaird is also at the jail awaiting further court proceedings.

Marte has already been convicted of multiple felonies in the Ontario County kidnapping case and is incarcerated at Attica Correctional Facility.

Follow Jeff Murray on Twitter @SGJeffMurray. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on Elmira Star-Gazette: Guilty plea in Elmira 2021 murder, torture of Juan Jose Gotay
By Xinghui Kok and Chen Lin

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - China is hammering out details with Singapore on a bilateral visa-free travel arrangement, according to Beijing's embassy, a move that could boost arrivals in the city-state from what was its biggest pre-pandemic tourism market.

There were 3.6 million Chinese visitors to Singapore in 2019, more than any other country, who spent a combined S$4.1 billion ($3.09 billion).

Many Chinese have in recent years been keen to invest, move assets or relocate to Singapore, with some buying into luxury real estate.

Among Singapore's 4 million citizens and permanent residents, three-quarters are of Chinese ethnicity and many speak Mandarin, making it easy for mainland Chinese to navigate the country.

"It is something that citizens of both countries are eagerly awaiting, and is also a shared concern for the leaders of both countries," a spokesperson for China's embassy in Singapore said.

Singapore's foreign ministry did not respond to Reuters request for comment.

Chinese travellers at present are required to apply for visas to visit Singapore.

Singaporeans were allowed 15-day visa-free visits prior to the pandemic. That arrangement has yet to be reinstated, which has led to lengthy queues, some overnight, at the Chinese visa application centre in Singapore.

The Chinese ambassador to Singapore Sun Haiyan wrote in a Facebook post last month: "Hope that the competent authorities of the two sides can achieve positive results as soon as possible."

($1 = 1.3273 Singapore dollars)

(Editing by Martin Petty, Kanupriya Kapoor)
People queue up to use a public restroom in downtown San Diego in 2019. (John Gibbins / San Diego Union-Tribune)

California has an opportunity to tackle a problem that affects everyone, but especially unhoused Californians: public restroom access. Unfortunately, there isn't sufficient data about the scope of the problem for cities to move toward a solution.

A bill in the Assembly, AB 1297, introduced by Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton), would require local governments to inventory public restrooms by July 2024, one step to address the chronic lack of restrooms across the state.

Access to public restrooms  facilities available to the general public that do not charge a fee for use  is a human right. Some groups rely more heavily on public facilities: people without stable housing, families with young children, delivery drivers and transit operators, tourists and commuters. But public restrooms are widely important for public health. Making available relatively clean and safe facilities promotes bladder and bowel health and prevents the spread of infectious diseases such as hepatitis A, shigella and influenza. Research shows that when more restrooms are available, open defecation declines.

Cities across California, however, have too few public restrooms to serve their populations. One recent estimate of access in Los Angeles, by far the states largest city with nearly 4 million residents, is especially grim: There are only 14 permanent public restrooms on city streets. L.A. has a network of portable toilets, but they can be here today and gone the next. Access to basic sanitation in skid row falls far short of international standards for refugee camps.

San Diego, Californias second-largest city, offers a telling case study. The city recently had to confront another uptick in hepatitis A cases  just a few years after a deadly hep A outbreak sickened nearly 600 people and killed 20 from 2016 lasting into 2018, and a 2021 shigella outbreak sickened 53 San Diegans. These outbreaks have repeatedly been linked to inadequate public restroom access, and they overwhelmingly affected unhoused people.

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In response to these issues, my colleagues and I investigated a basic question: Where are the public restrooms in our community? We quickly learned that this is difficult to answer.

Information about public restrooms is sparse, hard to access and often inaccurate. San Diego County did not have a standardized database of public restrooms. Several of its municipalities have no public information on the restrooms they manage. We submitted public records requests to locate these facilities, then compiled the responses with publicly available information to develop an online map of all permanent public restrooms countywide. This inventory has basic information, including the facilities' hours of operation and features offered such as menstrual products and baby changing stations.

The data paint an alarming picture. Focusing on downtown San Diego, we identified 22 public restrooms, only two of which are available 24/7. The overnight ratio is approximately one permanent toilet to every 204 unsheltered people living downtown. There are even fewer public restrooms in more outlying neighborhoods.

When we visited the downtown restrooms to audit their features, we found that only one of 22 offered hot water, four (18%) offered menstrual products, seven offered baby changing stations (32%) and nine (41%) offered a gender-neutral or family restroom option.

We also interviewed 115 unhoused San Diegans about their restroom experiences on a typical day. Of the people we interviewed, 70% reported using a public restroom  if one is available  and 44% reported practicing open defecation because no restroom is nearby when they need one. Half of the study participants said they experienced discrimination and other barriers when trying to use a restroom.

Passage of AB 1297 would be a critical first step toward increasing public restroom access. It is necessary for local governments to survey what restroom access looks like in their communities and make this information available to the public.

This is the not the first time Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva has tried to enact this policy. Opponents contend that a requirement to inventory public restrooms would burden local governments. But a better understanding of gaps in bathroom access would, over the long-term, reduce the work that officials have to put toward preventable public health crises directly linked to inadequate facilities.

The state cant stop there. Once we know where restrooms are, we should use that information to improve the quality of existing facilities, identify where more are needed and explore creative solutions to increase access, such as public-private partnerships and corporate sponsors to create more restrooms.

California cities are perpetually at risk of infectious disease outbreaks. Its time to collect the information needed to ensure that all Californians can safely meet their basic needs  and to hold local governments accountable to address this public health problem.

Megan Welsh Carroll is an associate professor of criminal justice and public administration at San Diego State and the director of the Project for Sanitation Justice. @bathrooms.sdsu

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
My daughter knows I am going to move mountains. Whatever the situation is, if its one thing my daughter knows, Mommys going to show up. This is why I decided to attend Charter Family Hill Day this year alongside 40 other public charter parents from nine states and the District of Columbia. I wanted to tell Congress members how KIPP Octavius Catto Elementary in Philadelphia has been such a blessing for my daughter and my family.

I am not just advocating for one public charter school. When it comes down to it, its not just about my child, its about all kids. Everyone may not have the ability or the privilege to be able to come to D.C. and to advocate. Everyone doesnt have that, but I do. I naturally have the desire to help and to fix and to be a part of the change that I want to see. I walked into these legislators offices hoping that they would hear me say our communities are crying for help. We need more quality schools, and we need to stop gun violence and address the mental health crisis in our schools.

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Across our group of parents and advocates at March 29s Charter Family Hill Day, we met with the offices of 37 members of Congress. We talked with Democrats and Republicans, with senators and members of the House of Representatives, and shared our call to action. As a parent, I was grateful to be able to choose KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools for my childs education. All kids and families deserve access to a high-quality public education. That means not only do we need to invest in mental health and keeping our students safe from gun violence; we also need to invest in public education and high-quality public charter schools like KIPP Philadelphia. We all went to Washington, D.C. to tell our families stories to Congress. We also got to hear each others stories and to learn from one another.

Related Charter Schools with Federal Grants Stay Open Longer, Watchdog Group Finds

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My story began this fall, when we gladly accepted a founding kindergarten seat at the newest KIPP Philadelphia school. We were excited to put the last two years of home learning during COVID-19 behind us and start life in our new normal. Except, things didnt feel normal. My 5-year-old didnt act like other children her age. Shes what I affectionately coined my firecracker child, but a lot like a firecracker, things always explode.

Our first few months at KIPP were not easy. She struggled with transitions, she couldnt sit still and sometimes she got so overwhelmed the only place that she felt comfortable was under her desk. As a parent, I felt all types of failure. I felt like because I chose to keep the lights on and not spend more time by her side during those Zoom classes while she was learning at home, that I had set her up to fail. I felt that I had somehow dropped the ball on my biggest responsibility  my daughter.

Tia Llopiz (Rocketship Schools parent Brenda Gordon)

It wasnt until a few conversations with the school social worker, then with the dean of students, which led to more conversations with her pediatrician, that I started seeing things a lot differently. I was able to see that the behaviors that she was exhibiting werent a result of my failure, but instead, were signs that her brain works differently than some of the other students.

I was able to work with the staff at KIPP Octavius Catto Elementary to get a referral to have my daughter receive an extensive evaluation, one that outlined exactly where shes struggling and identified interventions and strategies that will allow her to thrive in any classroom. For the first time in a while, I was able to breathe. It gave me a feeling of joy that I was able to advocate for my daughter so that her needs would be in the conversations that led to her evaluations.. I advocate for mental health support for students because it is a top priority for me and families across the country, especially as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Related Despite Crisis, States and Districts Slow to Spend $1B in Mental Health Funds

During Charter Family Hill Day, I was also able to reinforce my top priorities as a parent: investing in student mental health and keeping our kids safe from gun violence. Our children deserve to feel safe at school. These children have seen more trauma in their short lives than some of us ever experienced. My daughter deserves to live her life. My daughter deserves to be able to walk into a building that she knows shell walk out of. She deserves to know that she can be safe, even when Im not around.

There is a fire in me that deserves to continue to grow, and with that growth, Im not only advocating for my child, Im advocating for thousands of other kids and families across the country. If two days in Washington D.C, is what it takes for me to light some stuff on fire, then give me the two days, let me do it.
John Widstoe, Mirza Gholi Khan and Franklin Harris sit at a table surrounded by Utah State University, Brigham Young University, Southern Utah University and the University of Utah that contributed to the Iranian economy in various ways, ranging from water provision to teacher education and medical training. | Baskerville Institute

Although there is political tension between the United States and Iran, the bond of friendship between American and Iranian citizens remains strong, particularly in Utah.

A graduation ceremony of Utah State University in 1915 marked the commencement of a momentous journey of friendship for the university, Utahs citizens and those of Persia (modern-day Iran).

The Khan boys

In 1912, John Widtsoe (1872-1952), who was the president of Utah State University at the time, encountered Mirza Ali Gholi Khan, a young diplomat representing the Shah of Persia (Iran), at an international dry-farming congress in Alberta, Canada. Known for his accomplishments in the fields of science, literature and education, Widtsoe and Gholi Khan kept in contact through correspondence until Widtsoe eventually invited him to give the commencement address at Utah State University in 1915.

Gholi Khan began his speech with a sense of grace and elegance. Instead of giving a traditional inspirational talk for the students, he spoke about the remarkable likeness between Iran and Utah  both lands are rich with desert, high mountains, wide plateaus and salt lakes. He told the students that his trip from Salt Lake City to Logan felt as though he was back in Iran. This fostered a strong bond with Widtsoe and Utah. Afterwards, he wrote a letter to Widtsoe proposing that he send four of his nephews to Utah State University, making them the first Iranians to study at USU. Locals had a nickname for them  they called them the Khan boys. One of the Khan boys, Mohammad Amin Khan, returned to Iran after graduation, and became the president of an agricultural college established by Utah State University in the 1960s.

Related

What can America do to help Iran?

In 1941, a Utah expert named L.M. Windsor was granted a meeting with the young Mohammad Reza Shah in San Francisco. Vivian Meek from the Deseret News accompanied Windsor in this encounter. Windsor wrote a memo, What Can America Do to Help Iran?, calling on the United States to build on its amity with the Iranian people.

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When President Harry S. Truman announced his Point Four program for peace in 1948, he appointed another Utah State University president, Franklin Harris. Harris had gone to Iran in 1939 when he was president of Brigham Young University and later became president of Utah State University. He called on Professor H.L. Welsh to send a team of Utah State agricultural experts to Iran. They helped establish experimental farms, provided training to local farmers, and worked on developing new irrigation techniques suited to Irans arid climate.

The exchange of knowledge that ensued between Iran and Utah State University encouraged hundreds of Iranian students to join the university. Among them was Ardeshir Zahedi, the Iranian ambassador to the U.S., Cuba, Mexico, the Bahamas and Venezuela. Married to Princess Shahnaz, daughter of the shah, Zahedi obtained an agricultural degree from USU in 1950.

In 1960, Utah State University President Daryl Chase granted Ambassador Zahedi an honorary doctorate as an expression of gratitude. In turn, Zahedi came back to present Chase with the Order of the Crown, given to him by His Imperial Majesty the Shah of Iran. In his address to the graduating class, Zahedi expressed that he had found Utah to be like a second home.

Exchanges and bonds of friendship

During the 1970s, Utah universities maintained a robust bond with Iran. Teams of experts and professors from Utah State established exchange programs with the University of Tehran, and helped found the agricultural college in Karaj, Iran. Under this program, Iranian students were given the opportunity to study in the United States, while American students were sent to Tehran to learn Persian, art and architecture. Utah State has one of the largest alumni classes in the United States. Some of them have shown their appreciation by making large donations to the university. Doctors and nurses from the University of Utah helped Iranian doctors with their rural health clinics, and faculty and advisers from Brigham Young University helped with improving education and teaching.

Prior to the 1979 Iranian Revolution that disrupted these connections, there were around 3,000 Iranian students studying in various Utah universities, the U.S. Peace Corps for Iran held its training sessions in Logan, and hundreds of Utah residents lived and worked in Iran. The Church of Jesus Chris of Latter-Day Saints had an Institute in Tehran devoted to inter-faith studies and encouraged Brigham Young University to build a teachers education college in Iran.

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Even though the Iranian revolution of 1979 disrupted the political connections between Utah and Iran, it did not sever the people-to-people connections between Utah and Iran.

Many Iranian students stayed in Utah and brought their family members. Utahns who had experienced life in Iran maintained their connections to the Iranian culture and traditions by observing its holidays with Iranian friends, as well as helping them settle into their new environment and secure employment. It is not difficult to find a Utahn today whose parents or a relative lived and worked in Iran. Some have prominent television anchor positions, lead major corporations or teach at universities. Some held senior administrative positions at universities in Utah.

Because of what transpired in 1915 in Logan, Utah is home to 10,000 Iranians that includes dozens of Iranian professors, Iranian businessmen, professionals and public servants. The Utah legislature adopted a resolution Bonds of Friendship with Iran, and Utahs congressional delegation is very supportive of strengthening bonds of friendship with the Iranian people.

People like John Widtsoe, Mirza Gholi Khan and Franklin Harris serve as inspiring examples for how to turn friendship into an engine of prosperity and goodwill for both Utahns and Iranians. We desperately require more people of their caliber in the modern world.

Bahman Baktiari is the executive director of the Baskerville Institute.
Worries about artificial intelligence have suddenly seized Washington: The White House just hauled in a roster of tech CEOs to press them on the safety of their new AI platforms, and Congress is scrambling for ways to regulate a possibly disruptive and risky new technology.

There are a lot of immediate concerns about the latest generation of AI tools  they could accelerate misinformation, job disruption and hidden unfairness. But one concern hovers over the rest, both for its scale and the difficulty of fixing it: the idea that a super-intelligent machine might quickly start working against its human creators.

It sounds fanciful, but many experts on global risk believe that a powerful, uncontrolled AI is the single most likely way humanity could wipe itself out.

At the heart of the threat is whats called the alignment problem  the idea that a powerful computer brain might no longer be aligned with the best interests of human beings. Unlike fairness, or job loss, there arent obvious policy solutions to alignment. Its a highly technical problem that some experts fear may never be solvable. But the government does have a role to play in confronting massive, uncertain problems like this. In fact, it may be the most important role it can play on AI: to fund a research project on the scale it deserves.



Theres a successful precedent for this: The Manhattan Project was one of the most ambitious technological undertakings of the 20th century. At its peak, 129,000 people worked on the project at sites across the United States and Canada. They were trying to solve a problem that was critical to national security, and which nobody was sure could be solved: how to harness nuclear power to build a weapon.

Some eight decades later, the need has arisen for a government research project that matches the original Manhattan Projects scale and urgency. In some ways the goal is exactly the opposite of the first Manhattan Project, which opened the door to previously unimaginable destruction. This time, the goal must be to prevent unimaginable destruction, as well as merely difficult-to-anticipate destruction.

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The threat is real

Dont just take it from me. Expert opinion only differs over whether the risks from AI are unprecedentedly large or literally existential.

Even the scientists who set the groundwork for todays AI models are sounding the alarm. Most recently, the Godfather of AI himself, Geoffrey Hinton, quit his post at Google to call attention to the risks AI poses to humanity.

That may sound like science fiction, but its a reality that is rushing toward us faster than almost anyone anticipated. Today, progress in AI is measured in days and weeks, not months and years.

As little as two years ago, the forecasting platform Metaculus put the likely arrival of weak artificial general intelligence  a unified system that can compete with the typical college-educated human on most tasks  sometime around the year 2040.

Now forecasters anticipate AGI will arrive in 2026. Strong AGIs with robotic capabilities that match or surpass most humans are forecasted to emerge just five years later. With the ability to automate AI research itself, the next milestone would be a superintelligence with unfathomable power.

Dont count on the normal channels of government to save us from that.

Policymakers cannot afford a drawn-out interagency process or notice and comment period to prepare for whats coming. On the contrary, making the most of AIs tremendous upside while heading off catastrophe will require our government to stop taking a backseat role and act with a nimbleness not seen in generations. Hence the need for a new Manhattan Project.

The research agenda is clear

A Manhattan Project for X is one of those cliches of American politics that seldom merits the hype. AI is the rare exception. Ensuring AGI develops safely and for the betterment of humanity will require public investment into focused research, high levels of public and private coordination and a leader with the tenacity of General Leslie Groves  the projects infamous overseer, whose aggressive, top-down leadership style mirrored that of a modern tech CEO.



Im not the only person to suggest it: AI thinker Gary Marcus and the legendary computer scientist Judea Pearl recently endorsed the idea as well, at least informally. But what exactly would that look like in practice?

Fortunately, we already know quite a bit about the problem and can sketch out the tools we need to tackle it.

One issue is that large neural networks like GPT-4  the generative AIs that are causing the most concern right now  are mostly a black box, with reasoning processes we cant yet fully understand or control. But with the right setup, researchers can in principle run experiments that uncover particular circuits hidden within the billions of connections. This is known as mechanistic interpretability research, and it's the closest thing we have to neuroscience for artificial brains.

Unfortunately, the field is still young, and far behind in its understanding of how current models do what they do. The ability to run experiments on large, unrestricted models is mostly reserved for researchers within the major AI companies. The dearth of opportunities in mechanistic interpretability and alignment research is a classic public goods problem. Training large AI models costs millions of dollars in cloud computing services, especially if one iterates through different configurations. The private AI labs are thus hesitant to burn capital on training models with no commercial purpose. Government-funded data centers, in contrast, would be under no obligation to return value to shareholders, and could provide free computing resources to thousands of potential researchers with ideas to contribute.

The government could also ensure research proceeds in relative safety  and provide a central connection for experts to share their knowledge.

With all that in mind, a Manhattan Project for AI safety should have at least 5 core functions:

1. It would serve a coordination role, pulling together the leadership of the top AI companies  OpenAI and its chief competitors, Anthropic and Google DeepMind  to disclose their plans in confidence, develop shared safety protocols and forestall the present arms-race dynamic.

2. It would draw on their talent and expertise to accelerate the construction of government-owned data centers managed under the highest security, including an "air gap," a deliberate disconnection from outside networks, ensuring that future, more powerful AIs are unable to escape onto the open internet. Such facilities would likely be overseen by the Department of Energys Artificial Intelligence and Technology Office, given its existing mission to accelerate the demonstration of trustworthy AI.



3. It would compel the participating companies to collaborate on safety and alignment research, and require models that pose safety risks to be trained and extensively tested in secure facilities.

4. It would provide public testbeds for academic researchers and other external scientists to study the innards of large models like GPT-4, greatly building on existing initiatives like the National AI Research Resource and helping to grow the nascent field of AI interpretability.

5. And it would provide a cloud platform for training advanced AI models for within-government needs, ensuring the privacy of sensitive government data and serving as a hedge against runaway corporate power.

The only way out is through

The alternative to a massive public effort like this  attempting to kick the can on the AI problem  wont cut it.

The only other serious proposal right now is a pause on new AI development, and even many tech skeptics see that as unrealistic. It may even be counterproductive. Our understanding of how powerful AI systems could go rogue is immature at best, but stands to improve greatly through continued testing, especially of larger models. Air-gapped data centers will thus be essential for experimenting with AI failure modes in a secured setting. This includes pushing models to their limits to explore potentially dangerous emergent behaviors, such as deceptiveness or power-seeking.

The Manhattan Project analogy is not perfect, but it helps to draw a contrast with those who argue that AI safety requires pausing research into more powerful models altogether. The project didnt seek to decelerate the construction of atomic weaponry, but to master it.

Even if AGIs end up being farther off than most experts expect, a Manhattan Project for AI safety is unlikely to go to waste. Indeed, many less-than-existential AI risks are already upon us, crying out for aggressive research into mitigation and adaptation strategies. So what are we waiting for?


YouTube Screenshot

To be fair to Oppenheimer, whose first real trailer dropped today (and runs a full three minutes), the build-up for this robust tease was several dozen days in the making.

Universal Pictures dropped a bizarre countdown clock for Christopher Nolans next film on July 28, 2022, ticking away until the films July 21, 2023 releasea.k.a., the day the movies own theoretical bomb goes off. And while that clock is still at it, this full-fledged trailer is certainly more useful for filmgoers to pore over than just some endlessly spinning, black-and-white first-look footage.

No, based on this real trailer, Oppenheimer actually has some color in it! And those colors, while mostly orange, gray, and brown, look damn good when mashed together. Id rather you set those three minutes aside to watch this gorgeous, engrossing, sweeping look at the epic-scale summer blockbuster Nolans got on deck for us, rather than just read me prattling on about it. But I will pump it up by saying that Greta Gerwigs Barbie certainly has met its match for most exciting film to release July 21, 2023.

Brass tacks: Cillian Murphy plays J. Robert Oppenheimer, the man behind the atomic bomb, as he grows dizzy with military-grade power. Joined by US Army officer Leslie Groves (a very Matt Damon-y Matt Damon) and fellow nuclear scientist Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey, Jr., in old-man makeup), Murphy starts up the Manhattan Project. But that comes at an emotional cost, as his wife Kitty (Emily Blunt) grows increasingly despondent duringand suspicious ofa lockdown imposed by the engineers upon their families.

Action! Thrills! Heart! History! Very good suits and hats! Matt Damons hilarious mustache! A very sad-looking Albert Einstein! Genuinely, this movie has almost everything one wants from a summer film. Since its directed by Nolan, there may even be a twist. (Although, since this is based on history, probably not.) The only things missing are hot-pink flare pants and rollerblades, but you can head over to the screening room next door and follow up Oppenheimer with Barbie for those.

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On that note, heres my suggestion to those debating which film to go see July 21:

Anytime I see people pit Barbie against Oppenheimer. pic.twitter.com/0vYpPRXk4D  Edwin (@squid_win) May 6, 2023

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Oprah Winfrey lauded the two Tennessee state lawmakers who were briefly expelled from the states legislature earlier this year for their protests over gun violence, saying the pair of men are using their lives to prove the cynics wrong.

Winfrey, delivering the commencement address at Tennessee State University on Saturday, her alma mater, reflected on the wave of mass shootings in the U.S., an issue fresh on minds in Tennessee after a shooting at a private school in Nashville left three kids and three adults dead.

The leaders are behaving like children, Winfrey said. The children are being gunned down by military-grade assault rifles.

It was the shooting in Nashville, which included the use of an assault weapon, that state Reps. Justin Jones (D) and Justin Pearson (D) were protesting when they drew the ire of their Republican colleagues. GOP lawmakers voted to expel both of the representatives, both Black men, from the House. A third white lawmaker who was being targeted by Republicans was spared the same fate.

The Democratic lawmakerss expulsion over their gun violence protests drew national attention, with national Democrats rallying around the Tennessee lawmakers. Local leaders eventually voted to send both of the men back to the statehouse.

Winfrey heaped praise on the two lawmakers during the speech at the university that she received her degree from in 1987, saying they were leading young people by example.

Representatives like Justin Jones and Justin J. Pearson are using their lives to prove the cynics wrong, Winfrey said. And theyre building on the legacy of giants, mentors of mine like John Lewis, whose fight for justice started right here in Nashville.

Winfreys comments on gun violence came on the same weekend that a man opened fire at a shopping mall in Allen, Texas, and killed at least eight people and injured at least seven others. It was the 203rd mass shooting in the U.S. in 2023, according to gunviolencearchive.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
China, Pakistan vow to further all-round cooperation

Xinhua) 09:42, May 08, 2023

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang meets with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Islamabad, Pakistan, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Jiang Chao)

ISLAMABAD, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China and Pakistan agreed on Saturday to further promote the all-round cooperation between the two countries.

When co-chairing the fourth round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said that as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China highly appreciates Pakistan's support on issues concerning China's core interests.

China will, as always, continue to firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, back Pakistan to fight terrorism, and champion the South Asian country in maintaining unity and stability, achieving development and prosperity, and playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs, he said.

China is ready to make joint efforts with Pakistan to fully implement the important consensuses reached between leaders of the two countries, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, and strengthen strategic communication, so as to contribute to the development of bilateral relations and bring stability to the region and the world, Qin added.

Both sides should push forward the high-quality development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), explore new areas of cooperation in industry, agriculture, mining, science and technology and information technology, foster new growth points, and deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, he said.

China is willing to enhance cooperation with Pakistan in security capacity building and security system, Qin said.

China expects Pakistan to take the strictest measures to ensure the security and safety of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions, he said.

The Chinese foreign minister said that China is ready to work with Pakistan to take the lead to implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative in Pakistan and strengthen coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, safeguarding international fairness and justice, as well as common interests of developing countries.

For his part, Bilawal said that it is the consensus of various Pakistani political parties and all walks of life to consolidate the traditional friendship between Pakistan and China, and deepening Pakistan-China friendship and cooperation is the cornerstone that remains at the center of Pakistan's foreign policy.

The Pakistani side appreciates China's assistance in evacuating Pakistani nationals from Sudan and its fight against floods, Bilawal said.

He noted that the Pakistani side firmly opposes any attempt to contain China and will always stand with China. Pakistan remains steadfast in upholding the one-China policy and firmly supports China on all issues related to its core interests.

He pointed out that Pakistan expects to closely cooperate with China in jointly advancing the CPEC construction, strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture, trade, finance, connectivity, cultural exchanges and counter-terrorism, and promoting a new era of the Pakistan-China all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.

The Pakistani side will do its utmost to crack down on terrorist organizations to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions in Pakistan, Bilawal said.

He expressed Pakistan's support for the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, pledging to work with China to combat terrorism and address global challenges such as climate change.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang co-chairs the fourth round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Islamabad, Pakistan, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly declared a Chinese diplomat 'persona non grata'

China has expelled Canada's consul in Shanghai in retaliation for Ottawa sending home a Chinese diplomat accused of trying to intimidate a Canadian MP.

On Monday, Canada declared China's diplomat Zhao Wei "persona non grata" and ordered her to leave the country.

In response, China on Tuesday ordered the removal of Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, Canada's diplomat in its Shanghai Consulate.

"China reserves the right to further react," Beijing said in a statement.

Both diplomats have five days to exit the countries.

The censures mark a significant deterioration in relations between Ottawa and Beijing following reports of alleged Chinese political interference in Canada.

Canada had accused China of targeting its opposition lawmaker Michael Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong after Mr Chong accused China of human rights abuses.

Last Thursday, Canada summoned China's ambassador to reiterate that Canada would not tolerate interference in its affairs.

Diplomatic relations between the two countries have been strained since the detention of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou, held in Canada on US fraud charges in 2018, and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges. All three were freed in 2021.

At the time, China insisted the two cases were not linked, but critics accused Beijing of using the Canadians as political bargaining chips.

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly on Monday declared Mr Zhao a "persona non grata", a Latin phrase for an "unwelcome person".

China called the move "unscrupulous" and declared the same of Ms Lalonde - saying it was a "reciprocal countermeasure".

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canada "will not be intimidated" by China following Beijing's tit-for-tat expulsion.

"We will continue to do everything necessary to keep Canadians protected from foreign interference," he said.

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The move by Ottawa follows a Canadian intelligence report, which emerged in the Globe and Mail newspaper, that accused Mr Zhao of being involved in gathering information about Mr Chong, 51, following his vocal criticism China's treatment of its Uyghur minority population.

It said Canada's spy agency believes China sought details about Mr Chong's relatives in Hong Kong in an effort to deter "anti-China positions".

The politician put forward a motion in parliament in 2021 that declared China's treatment of Uyghurs a genocide. China has denied the accusations and sanctioned Mr Chong shortly after.

Ms Joly said on Monday that Canada "will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs" and that the decision to expel the diplomat had "been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play".

Canada's spy agency has since been directed to immediately pass on information about threats to members of parliament and their families.

"China strongly condemns and firmly opposes this and has lodged serious demarches and strong protest to Canada," China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Tuesday.

China last week accused Canada of "slander and defamation" over the claims Beijing targeted Mr Chong and his family.

Mr Chong, a Conservative, has criticised the governing Liberals of mishandling the matter and on Monday said: "It shouldn't have taken two years for the government to make this decision".

The allegations come amid other intelligence reports, leaked to Canadian media outlets, that have accused China of attempting to interfere in Canadian elections.

In March, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced an independent special rapporteur to investigate the interference claims.
People walk across a pedestrian crossing in Valiasr square in the centre of Iran's capital Tehran on October 25 2022.

Iran on Monday hanged two men on charges of spreading blasphemy on social media, prompting US condemnation and accusations from Amnesty International the Islamic republic has reached a "new low" in a spree of executions.

Sadrollah Fazeli Zare and Youssef Mehrdad, convicted of desecrating the Koran and insulting the Prophet Mohammed, were hanged in the morning in a prison in the central city of Arak, the judiciary's Mizan Online website said.

Their execution came as concern intensifies about a spike in executions in Iran this year, after 2022 saw more people hanged than in any year since 2015, according to rights groups.

Activists accuse the authorities of using capital punishment as a means to intimidate the population after anti-regime protests that erupted in September last year shook the clerical leadership.

Amnesty said in a statement Monday's execution represented "a shocking new low for Iran's authorities and only furthers Iran's pariah status".

"They were hanged solely for social media posts in a grotesque assault on the rights to life and freedom of religion."

In Washington, State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said the executions were a "grave reminder of the Iranian regime's penchant for abusing and violating the human rights of Iranian people."

"Blasphemy laws remain an affront to human rights worldwide, including in Iran," he told reporters.

The director of Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR), Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, said the execution of "two people for expressing their opinions" should be a "turning point for countries with freedom of expression values" in their relations with Tehran.

- 'Government-sanctioned murder' -

The pair were accused of operating social media channels and groups that promoted atheism and insulted Islamic "sanctities", Mizan said.

It added one of them in March 2021 had purportedly confessed during a court session to publishing the content in question on his social media account.

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Reports said the two were arrested in June 2020 over a channel on the Telegram messaging app.

They were sentenced to death in April 2023 and then held in solitary confinement, according to reports.

Mehrdad was the father of three children, according to Persian media based outside Iran.

"The execution of these citizens is a blatant example of the government-sanctioned murder of citizens who have different beliefs than those of the Islamic republic's leaders," said Hadi Ghaemi, director of the New York-based Center for Human Rights in Iran.

While the Islamic republic's law permits executions for blasphemy, hangings of people convicted of such charges have been relatively rare in recent years.

IHR said an Iranian man was executed in 2013 for questioning the Koran's narrative on the life of the prophet Jonah in the belly of a whale.

The vast majority of people executed in Iran have been convicted of drug-related or murder charges.

- 'Crush protests' -

Iran executes more people yearly than any other nation except China, according to rights groups including Amnesty.

IHR and the Paris-based Together Against the Death Penalty said last month 2022 had seen the highest number of executions in the Islamic republic since 2015 with 582 people hanged.

And so far in 2023, at least 208 people have been executed, according to IHR.

On Friday, Amiry-Moghaddam said that over the 10 previous days Iran had executed "one person every six hours... while the international community has remained silent".

The spike in executions since last year has coincided with nationwide demonstrations triggered by the September 16 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating strict dress rules for women.

Four men were executed in connection with the protests in 2022, drawing international condemnation, but activists want greater pressure on Iran to stop all executions.

On Saturday, Iran executed Swedish-Iranian dissident Habib Chaab for "terrorism", prompting sharp criticism from Sweden and the European Union.

Amnesty said the execution came after a grossly unfair trial marred by torture and forced confessions.

Meanwhile, German-Iranian Jamshid Sharmahd, 68, is condemned to death by Iran, which does not recognise dual nationality, in connection with a deadly mosque bombing in 2008.

His family strongly reject the charges and say Sharmahd was abducted by Iranian security forces to face trial in Tehran while travelling in the Gulf in 2020.

"Without urgent international action, the Iranian authorities will continue to deploy the death penalty to torment and terrorise the entire population, crush protests and other forms of dissent," said Amnesty.

sjw/ami
Social media users are claiming a picture shows people approaching the US border with Mexico in May 2023 before pandemic-era immigration restrictions are lifted. This is false; the photo depicts Central American migrants heading toward the United States in October 2018.

"This invasion of the US is authorized by @JoeBiden's @WhiteHouse and being supported by @SenSchumer @SpeakerPelosi and the @TheDemocrats @HouseDemocrats @SenateDems," said former New York City police commissioner Bernard Kerik in May 7, 2023 Twitter and Instagram posts sharing the image. "Who is going to financially support these people? The American taxpayer!"

Screenshot from Twitter taken May 8, 2023

Similar posts warning of an "invasion" rocketed across Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms, amplified by prominent conservatives such as US Senator Mike Lee, former acting director of national intelligence Richard Grenell and Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller.

"These invaders will be entering our country this week," tweeted former Republican Senate candidate Lauren Witzke, a far-right activist who has promoted the baseless QAnon conspiracy theory. "We no longer have a nation. Prepare accordingly."

Screenshot from Twitter taken May 8, 2023

Screenshot from Twitter taken May 8, 2023

The posts spread as the United States prepares to lift Title 42, a pandemic-era program former president Donald Trump introduced to swiftly expel people trying to enter the United States. The Pentagon has sent troops to the border in anticipation of a potential surge of migrants after the protocol ends May 11.

But the image is not recent or related to the Biden administration's rule change.

AFP photojournalist Guillermo Arias took the picture October 27, 2018. It shows migrants leaving Arriaga, Mexico for San Pedro Tapanatepec in a trek toward the United States.

Aerial view of Honduran migrants heading in a caravan to the US as they leave Arriaga on their way to San Pedro Tapanatepec in southern Mexico on October 27, 2018 Guillermo Arias AFP

AFP and other media reported the caravan began with a group fleeing violence in Honduras and grew to several thousand people seeking to reach the US border, generating headlines and political controversy.

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Writing for AFP Correspondent in 2019, Arias said he captured the shot using a drone.

"The police had blocked the road for a few hours, so the group had gathered together in one spot," Arias said. "The image really shows the scale and it was the last time that we have been able to make a picture like that. I think that was the moment that US President Donald Trump began to talk about 'an invasion.' When I made the photo, these people had already crossed three borders."

Other AFP photos from the time show the same scene.

Aerial view of Honduran migrants heading in a caravan to the US as they leave Arriaga on their way to San Pedro Tapanatepec in southern Mexico on October 27, 2018 Guillermo Arias AFP

Aerial view of Honduran migrants heading in a caravan to the US as they leave Arriaga on their way to San Pedro Tapanatepec in southern Mexico on October 27, 2018 Guillermo Arias AFP

Some social media users who misrepresented the picture -- including Lee, the US lawmaker from the state of Utah -- later clarified it was out of date.

"Update: apparently this is an old photo. My bad," Lee said in an edited version of his tweet.

AFP has debunked other misinformation about the end of Title 42 here.
A traditional business suit might be transformed into a bold power suit, made from upcycled sari fabric and embellished with traditional prints like paisleys. The going-out top gets a revamp with a Mandarin collar and a miniskirt to match.

The diaspora is increasingly searching for uniquely Asian American fashion, and Asian-owned brands are responding by increasingly highlighting their blended identity with trendy and culturally inspired clothing collections. They're using fabrics, cuts and accessories to meet the communities' needs.

And the demand has been evident: For example, HoliCHIC, an Indian American clothing company based in New York City, has had a 310% increase in sales since 2021, according to the brand. Dawang, a Chinese American streetwear company based in New York, has doubled its sales every year since its inception in 2019, the company told NBC News.

Megha Rao, the founder and designer of HoliCHIC, said she has a following of young South Asian professionals looking for Indo-Western clothes to wear at work and events and when they go out.

Rao, 40, said that from sari-inspired formal gowns to jewel-toned blazers embroidered with traditional Indian designs, HoliCHIC set out to make pieces that were subtle but unmistakably South Asian.

HoliCHIC's collections were inspired by fabrics and styles traditionally seen in Indian formal wear. (HoliCHIC)

HoliCHIC also sells traditional Indian clothes, but its Indo-Western collections, which include pieces like pencil dresses and crop tops made from silk fabric, generally used to make saris or lenghas  two-piece Indian formal outfits that include floor-length skirts and cropped shirts  are its most popular pieces.

Its really about [using] South Asian textiles  the embroidery and the traditional fabrics that weve all come to love and appreciate, she said. Normally, youll find it in a sari or a lengha. But as a designer, Im constantly trying to think of unique ways to play with cuts.

Indian textiles have historically been known for their vibrant dyes, distinct weaving, intricate embroidery and stamped prints. Rao used those textiles, typically made into Indian clothes, to create some of her most popular items.

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Its like a new, fresh take on all of these beautiful fabrics that our moms used to wear, she said.

Rao said her mom and her upbringing inspired her to make products like a blue silk sari cocktail dress and a lime green silk tracksuit, colors inspired by womens Indian formal wear.

Dresses and skirts are made with brocade silk, which give the illusion of raised embroidery. (Emerson / HoliCHIC)

I think thats where the uniqueness of the designs comes from. Yes, Im South Asian, but Im also American, and Im also from New York, the fashion capital of the world, she said.

She believes her success is partly due to the shift in perspective for Asian Americans, including her own, with a newfound respect and interest in their own cultures.

I have this sense of pride and responsibility to show people what my beautiful culture is all about, and theres interest in it at the same time, which may not have been there before, she said.

Other designers have also found inspiration for their brands through their Asian heritage.

Daisy Wang, the founder and designer of Dawang, said she wanted to find a balance between Western and Eastern influences for her collections.

The clothes run from dresses and crop tops to sweatshirts and track pants. The collections include details like knot button closures and qipao collars, also known as a Mandarin collar, a short stand-up collar that originated in Imperial China.

One of the main things weve been continuing to use per season is brocade textile, she said, adding that Dawang has been trying to figure out  how we can incorporate this traditional textile into our modern designs.

Dawang created a modern take on the qipao collar with their crop tops and dresses. (Courtesy Dawang)

Brocade silk is woven to give the illusion of raised embroidery. The production of brocade began in ancient China and the designs in the silk quickly became more intricate during the Renaissance. The fabric is still a staple in traditional Asian fashion.

Dawangs pieces feature designs like clouds and traditional Chinese patterns.

Wang explained how fashion in the country evolved over the last 5,000 years, including the influence of Western culture during the first part of the 20th century. The influence of Western culture resulted in a more form-fitting qipao dress but preserved the iconic collar.

As a younger generation, were living in this world where everything is mixed. Why cant we create another interpretation based on our modern understanding, our modern styles? So that gave me inspiration, she said.

Wang, 28, believes the rapid growth of Asians in the U.S. and the search for unique fashion by the Asian diaspora most likely plays a role in her companys success.

Influencers like Milan Mathew have also taken the opportunity to show off their cultures through fashion and accessories.

Influencer Milan Mathew has found ways to incorporate South Asian formal jewelry into her streetwear style. (Courtesy Milan Mathew )

Mathew, a South Asian American who has 1 million followers on TikTok, is known for her fashion and lifestyle videos. She includes traditional Indian jewelry with her Western fashion, like wearing jhumkas, a traditional bell-shaped Indian earring, with a white slip dress. She also wears tikkas, an ornate headpiece that lays in the middle part of the hair and on the forehead. She styles the same type of earrings and a gold nose ring with blue jeans and a puffer jacket.

I love the jhumkas and our tikkas. But when I see it, its mostly worn to Indian functions like weddings or parties, she said. But why cant I just wear it normally? Most of the time I wear my jhumkas with my streetwear clothes or an Indian-style nose ring. It adds that little touch to your outfits, and theres, like, a lot of meaning behind it.

Milan Mathew has created a following as a lifestyle and beauty influencer who finds ways to include South Asian style in her looks. (Courtesy Milan Mathew)

Mathew grew up in India and now lives in Houston. She found success on TikTok during the pandemic when she started making videos about Indian fashion. One of her most popular videos, which has 16 million views, shows her doing a TikTok trend where she transitioned from streetwear to a lengha and traditional jewelry.

Since then, she has become a full-time lifestyle content creator making videos about fashion, makeup and hair. She still makes videos styling saris and lenghas with ornate Indian jewelry, but she found subtle ways to incorporate that style in other videos. Her jhumkas and Indian-style nose rings are often featured in her videos and on her Instagram account.

Mathew, 25, said adding Indian-style jewelry like bangles and earrings to her outfits has made her feel prettier than simple Western jewelry does.

Its not too extravagant to where its taking away from the outfit. Its adding to it. When I wear my nose ring, I feel really pretty. When you wear the jhumkas, you just, like, feel extra pretty, she said.

CORRECTION (May 8, 2023, 10:00 a.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated Megha Raos age. She is 40, not 44.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group. There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in the group  which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

At the end of the Pakistan-hosted mini-summit of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad on Monday issued a joint statement. It said the three sides stressed the need to prevent any individual, group or party to use their territories to harm and threaten regional security and interests or conduct terrorist actions and activities. These include the Pakistani Taliban and the ethnic Uighur militant group, called the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

It said all three sides underscored the need to refrain from intervening in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and to promote Afghan peace, stability and reconstruction. The diplomats from the three nations agreed to further deepen and expand their cooperation in the security, development and political domains based on the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed consultation and mutual benefit."

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Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.
Around 600 far-right activists rallied in the streets of Paris on Saturday

The Paris police force and France's interior minister faced questions and criticism Monday over why a march of around 600 neo-Nazis through the streets of the capital was authorised at the weekend.

The annual rally Saturday by far-right extremists dressed in black came as authorities clamp down on protesters banging saucepans against the government, with new restrictions put in place Monday to prevent President Emmanuel Macron from being drowned out by the noise during speeches.

The march saw several hundred men from far-right groups march with flags and chant slogans to commemorate the death of a far-right activist, Sebastien Deyzieu, in 1994.

The protest was authorised by city authorities, and police could be seen patrolling nearby.

France marked its traditional May 8 public holiday on Monday to commemorate the victory of Allied forces over Nazi Germany in 1945 and the lives lost in the fight against fascism.

Socialist Party senator David Assouline called on Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin to "explain yourself" over the march.

"It's unacceptable to have allowed 500 neo-Nazis and fascists to parade in the heart of Paris. Their organisations, the display of their ideology, slogans, insignias are as much an insult to the dead as an incitement to racial hatred," he wrote on Twitter.

Ian Brossat, a spokesman for the Communist party, joked that "saucepans are clearly more dangerous than jackboots".

Left-wing charity Attac also wrote that the far right "demonstrates their hatred with complete impunity in the centre of Paris while the state is seeking to outlaw saucepan-banging."

The Paris police department reacted on Monday by explaining that it did not have the legal powers to prevent a demonstration unless there was a "proven risk to public order".

"Given that this demonstration had not caused any problems or public order issues during previous years, the Paris prefect was not in a position to take steps to ban it," it said in a statement.

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It referred to a previous attempt in January to stop a flaming-torch rally by the far-right "Paris Pride" group, which was overturned by a judge after an appeal by organisers.

- Saucepan bans -

Demonstrations were banned on Monday around the Champs-Elysees in Paris where Macron attended a May 8 ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe war memorial.

Police in the eastern city of Lyon also outlawed demonstrations Monday near a war memorial where Macron paid tribute to French Resistance hero Jean Moulin.

An appeal from the CGT trade union was rejected by a local court.

The CGT said 5,000 protesters, some banging saucepans, marched outside the security perimeter enforced during Macron's Lyon visit, with the local authorities putting their number at 3,000.

Anti-riot police fired tear gas on multiple occasions while car windows were smashed, AFP journalists saw.

Members of the government have been pursued by saucepan-banging protesters since Macron signed a deeply unpopular pension reform into law on April 15 that will raise the retirement age to 64 from 62.

The interior ministry has banned a number of extremist anti-immigration groups in recent years, including Generation Identitaire and Zouaves Paris.

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Penny Mordaunt has addressed her starring moment at the coronation of King Charles III.

The politician, 50, who is the Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Privy Council, was, for many people, the surprise star of King Charles IIIs coronation with her fierce teal outfit and robust sword-bearing skills.

At the coronation service on Saturday (6 May), Mordaunt became the first woman to carry the sword of state  a symbol of the new kings authority  during the procession at Westminster Abbey.

Read our live coverage of the coronation weekend here.

Her part in the ceremony included carrying the heavy sword for a full 51 minutes, which weighs eight pounds (3.6kg), before exchanging it for the jewelled sword of offering, presenting that to Charles.

Mordaunts appearance at the crowning ceremony impressed royal fans on Twitter, with one person wondering: Who had Penny Mordaunt overshadowing everything on their bingo card?

Tony Blairs former spin doctor, Alastair Campbell, tweeted during the event: Dont let anyone ever say I never say anything positive about Tories . . . I am in awe of Penny Mordaunts arm and shoulder strength!

Star Wars and Game of Thrones fans got excited on social media as they praised Mordaunts likeness to a warrior princess.

Penny Mordaunt carried a heavy sword for a full 51 minutes during the crowning service (PA Wire)

Mordaunt has now addressed her viral moment at the coronation on Twitter, writing: Honoured to be part of the #coronation with thousands of others who played their part.

Im very aware that our armed forces, police officers and others have been marching or standing for hours as part of the ceremony or to keep us all safe. In comparison, my job was rather easier.

Huge and heartfelt thanks to all who made this so remarkable. Im so proud of you all and the King and Queen today.

Honoured to be part of the #coronation with thousands of others who played their part. I'm very aware that our armed forces, police officers & others have been marching or standing for hours as part of the ceremony or to keep us all safe. In comparison, my job was rather easier. pic.twitter.com/ksmpGWUtog  Penny Mordaunt (@PennyMordaunt) May 6, 2023

Mordaunts outfit received high praise from royal fans and fashion critics.

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The politician wore a teal caped dress designed by luxury ready-to-wear brand Safiyaa, embroidered with a fern motif, which is a nod to the privy council. The teal colour, called Poseidon, is a reference to her Portsmouth constituency.

She arrived wearing ballerina flats, with studded bows and later changed into a pair of nude stilettos.

Fans of Mordaunt have also pointed to the irony of her viral moment at the coronation given her day job as the Leader of the House of Commons  a role granted to her by former Prime Minister Liz Truss, often given to MPs to keep them quiet. As President of the Privy Council, she became the first woman in UK history to proclaim a new monarch.

Read our live coverage of the coronation weekend here.
Less than a decade after Florida cleared the way for undocumented students to receive in-state tuition, the state seems to be headed in the opposite direction.

In a news conference earlier this year, Gov. Ron DeSantis expressed his support of reversing a law that gives qualified undocumented students access to in-state tuition vouchers.

DeSantis argues that removing the measure will keep tuition costs down. Why would we subsidize a non-U.S. citizen? he said.

Right now, there are more than 40,000 undocumented students in Florida.

Eli Garcia is a DACA recipient who came to the United States when she was nine years old.

She got that education thanks in no small part to in-state tuition, saying after the measure passed, she went from paying $1,200 per class to about $350 per class.

Read: Stay tuned: Gov. DeSantis hints at presidential run announcement

It not only saved Garcia thousands of dollars, but she also now provides help to other undocumented immigrants trying to get their college degree.

But she doesnt know for how much longer as DeSantis is not alone in his desire to reverse the measure.

We should not be incenting people to come here illegally and rewarding them for doing it, State Rep. Randy Fine said.

Although the repeal didnt happen this year, hed like to see it pass next year.

It certainly is something Ive supported all along. And were spending a huge amount of money on this. And its just not right, he said.

Read: onePULSE Foundation founder says Pulse donation holdout was business partner, silent investor

Even though the repeal didnt pass this year, the concern over tuition uncertainty, according to Registered Nurse Megan Harrell, has ripple effects as medical students look for an education and and a job.

I personally know a large majority of immigrants that come from the Caribbean -- specifically who come to South Florida, who come to Central Florida -- who are looking to restart their careers, Harrell said. They were physicians, they were nurses in other countries. They do represent a large percentage of healthcare workers. So to take this away, I really do see a large gap in healthcare workers, especially in a field (that is) so desperate for workers and graduates.

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Read: Legislation passed to regulate Florida human trafficking safehouses following 9 Investigates series

With an aging population and fewer nurses with less experience, nurses like Megan Harrell wonder how the industry will keep up.

Im going to school with them and then training these brand new nurses, she said. Its really evident to see that people who have prior experience in other countries who are coming in -- they just come with a plethora of knowledge and understanding of the patients and the disease processes.

Anchor Kirstin Delgado asked Harrell point black, So this would really be a detriment to them if this proposal were to reach status where it became law?

Her response -- Absolutely. It would really hold a lot of people back from going to school. It would really create a gap in healthcare, especially in Florida.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Then-Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, seen in reflection, poses for a portrait following an interview with The Associated Press at the Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Va., Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015. | Andrew Harnik, Associated Press

The nation needs moral men to lead the conservative movement. And the hour is now for humble men, men of substance and character, religious men of principle and without guile to reassert themselves within conservative culture.

With them, conservatism will regain integrity and advance goodness. Without them, it will alienate sympathetic women while failing a generation of young men currently casting about for civic role models.

In recent weeks, video has surfaced of Donald Trump defending his lecherous statements about grabbing womens privates. Security footage showed conservative commentator Stephen Crowder badgering his pregnant wife to the point of mental and emotional exhaustion. Leaked text messages from former Fox News host Tucker Carlson revealed him using vulgar slurs to refer to female colleagues and lawyer Sidney Powell.

When confronted by an attorney with one such message in a leaked deposition, Carlson responded: I just want to apologize preemptively. I mean youre trying to embarrass me, youre definitely succeeding as I am embarrassed.

Tucker Carlson, left, and former President Donald Trump, right, react during the final round of the Bedminster Invitational LIV Golf tournament in Bedminster, N.J., July 31, 2022. | Seth Wenig, Assoicated Press

Dennis Prager, long seen as an ideas-driven conservative, has recently defended the use of pornography by married men, bizarrely arguing that his own faith is OK with it (even though half of women in committed relationships disapprove of pornography use and a third of married women consider it a form of infidelity).

Men will never be perfect. But its not too much to expect conservative men in particular to strive toward moral rectitude. Yes, men will stumble and fall. And we ought to extend grace and the ability to learn and grow.

But it is also true that those who consistently prove unable to self-govern are not fit to govern anyone else. Furthermore, its a fundamental principle of conservatism that morality is not the end of politics but rather its beginning. And if conservatism fails to provide accountability for sexual Lotharios or casual misogyny its not clear what is left within the movement worthy of conserving.

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To be sure, bad men are no respecters of party or clique. Jeffrey Epstein, the notorious sex-trafficking financier, gave overwhelmingly to Democratic political causes. So did Harvey Weinstein, the now-disgraced Hollywood producer. Bill Clinton carried out an affair in the White House, and Anthony Weiner spent time in jail. But conservatives should have a much higher bar  the movement has historically been the champion of family values, moral agency, self-governance, personal accountability and responsibility.

And, importantly, these are precisely the values needed to help American men in this moment of crisis. College enrollment is currently falling among men in the United States. Educational attainment is similarly declining. Millions of men have simply dropped out of the workforce altogether.

Its no secret that men are significantly more likely than women to vote Republican, and this gap is growing. Misogynistic tropes or juvenile displays of machismo, much less outright abuse, wont help American men  and they most certainly wont help American women.

I want every woman watching this Steven Crowder situation to know that what you are witnessing is abuse. There is no justification. There is no context. No woman deserves to be controlled and abused like that. If you are in a similar situation, please get out and get help.  Bethany S. Mandel (@bethanyshondark) April 28, 2023

Women and men alike need public examples of faithful husbands and dedicated fathers who are productive and magnanimous.

True feminists recognize women are better off working and living among such men.

Genuine gentlemen are needed in the workspace, in the c-suite, around the boardroom and on the debate stage. But more importantly theyre needed around dinner tables and at school plays. Theyre needed in PTA meetings and in Rotary Clubs.

Related

This isnt simple longing for an idyllic past.

When men like Dennis Prager prop up porn, an industry mired in the abuse of women and children, it underwrites an assumption that level-headed conservatism should be uniquely suited to challenge: that progress occurs when women come around to mens baser preferences.

Conservatism must offer a pro-woman vision by challenging this lie. But no one will take that vision seriously if traditional values is used as a fig leaf for chauvinism.

Over the past several years, women across the political spectrum have already begun to challenge the notion that liberal feminism truly understands, much less serves, many womens interests. Louise Perry, Mary Harrington, Christine Emba, Erika Bachiochi and others are shining a light on the plight of women that progress has left behind.

While certainly plenty of women have had their professional and economic vistas expanded in recent decades, a positive development, too often the hidden costs of decimating social institutions  which remain largely intact among wealthy and educated women  have fallen on the heads of poor and working class women and children, who suffer from the behavior of absent or unaccountable men seemingly unshackled from marriage, family and religious expectations.

At some point, the answer to the failures of our brave new world is not simply more progress. Can we envision a world in which a womans unique capacities for creation are a feature and not a bug? Can we envision a world in which women are not turned against their own bodies and the lives they create? Can we imagine a world in which a womans desires for commitment and children are honored rather than downplayed as socially constructed obstacles to market-driven formulas of success?

Sex should be understood as a relationship surrounded by obligations to women, rather than a commodifiable activity that our culture increasingly makes harder for women to object to.

If we want American women to take this conservative vision of sex and family life seriously, the movement must first and foremost model it and prove it works. This starts with accountability for men who actively benefit from a degraded sexual and family culture.

When Donald Trump boasts about using women to gratify his appetites and his vanity, it upholds the liberationist status quo. When Stephen Crowder threatens and bullies his wife, he underscores the fear that sacred family institutions are actually just a way to control and subjugate women rather than support and empower them.

The truth is, institutional breakdown has not freed women from bad men; it has simply lessened their opportunities for recourse. Women are not empowered by independence from men. Women and men are both better when theres a healthy interdependence; when good men are responsive to womens needs and supportive of their interests and talents.

Studies suggest that highly religious, married men tend to do more chores. And women in such marriages have more satisfaction in their relationships and even more satisfying sex lives.

But if conservatives dont hold men accountable for chauvinism, misogyny or abuse, they promote the path of male liberation at the expense of women, furthering the social disintegration that will only harm the rising generation. Its time for conservatives to unapologetically demonstrate that marriage, fatherhood, motherhood and religion are good for society. Its time to lift up and build men who honor more than their personal fortunes.
AP

A hedge fund manager was awarded $203 million in damages after being defamed by former neighbor Peter Nygard.

Disgraced fashion mogul Nygard accused Louis Bacon of arson, insider trading and links to the KKK.

The decade-long dispute began following a quarrel over a driveway Nygard and Bacon shared.

A hedge fund billionaire has been awarded $203 million after a New York court ruled he was defamed by his former Bahamas neighbor Peter Nygard following a decade-long feud ignited by a shared driveway.

Nygard, a disgraced fashion mogul facing several sex trafficking charges, was ordered by a New York court-appointed judge to pay the biggest defamation settlement in the state's history to Moore Capital Management founder Louis Bacon after peddling several wild allegations.

Arguments between Bacon and Nygard began when the two were neighbours in the gated Lyford Cay community on Clifton Bay in the Bahamas.

Bacon complained that Nygard, who used a driveway owned by Bacon, held several disruptive parties at his residence, while Nygard accused Bacon of scuppering his redevelopment plans after a fire, per the Financial Times.

This gradually escalated into increasingly vicious attacks by Canadian fashion mogul Nygard, with Bacon's lawyers saying he personally spent $15 million on a smear campaign against Bacon.

In the initial complaint filed in 2015, Bacon said Nygard had hired journalists to peddle conspiracies about the hedge fund manager, including that Bacon had participated in insider trading, that he was linked to the death of his house manager, that he was responsible for a fire at Nygard's property, and that he was involved in the Ku Klux Klan.

"Nygard and his sidekicks have alleged on a number of occasions that ancestors of mine living in the 19th and 18th centuries, whom I of course, never knew, were associated with racist groups or slaveholding," Bacon wrote at the time.

According to the FT, Judge former U.S. District Judge Layn Phillips said the "overwhelming" and "truly stunning" nature of the evidence brought forward warranted the record sum.

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"Any one of these would have been a significant assault on his character; the combination of all four depicted him as an evildoer of the highest order," the referee said in his ruling, per the Wall Street Journal.

Lawyers told the court Bacon had spent more than $50 million in legal fees bringing several defamation cases against Nygard.

The settlement is a massive figure for an individual defamation case. By comparison, Fox News recently settled its mammoth defamation case brought by Dominion for a comparable $787.5 million.

Nygard was accused by the Department of Justice in 2020 of using his Bahamas property to carry out "pamper parties" targeting dozens of victims. The allegations have wiped out his business empire.

Nygard's lawyers didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Plans by New York City to temporarily house asylum seekers at a Rockland County hotel may be derailed by an order issued over the weekend by County Executive Ed Day.

City officials announced Friday they will place up to 300 immigrant men at two hotels in Rockland and Orange counties to help manage the huge influx of asylum seekers bused to New York City from the southern border. They say the city is caring for nearly 38,000 asylum seekers and needs to free up housing space for new arrivals.

Day, who adamantly opposes the plan, issued an order Saturday that prohibits the city from housing migrants or asylum seekers at any Rockland hotel without his permission. That prohibition would apply to the Armoni Inn and Suites, the hotel off Route 303 in Orangeburg that was expected to take in some of the city's asylum seekers.

County Executive Ed Day, flanked by Congressman Mike Lawler and Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny, opposes the 300 asylum seekers at a Rockland hotel to help manage the huge influx of asylum seekers bused to New York City from the southern border, May 8, 2023 in New City.

The county could fine the city $2,000 per day for each asylum seeker for violating the order.

Day's order allows the county to license a hotel to house migrants only if the contract limits their stay to 15 days and the city proves in advance it can pay for their lodging and other needs. The city also would have to reimburse the host municipality or county for any costs they incur.

"We are not equipped to humanely assist these individuals, which ultimately we would have to do," Day said Monday at a press conference with other elected officials at his office in New City.

A spokesman for New York City Mayor Eric Adams told The Journal News/lohud on Monday that the city hasn't changed its housing plans in Rockland in response to Day's order.

NYC pushing migrants to Rockland, Orange NYC plans to send new immigrants to Rockland, Orange. 'We will not stand for it,' Day says

'I implore the mayor to re-think this'

Adams and his administration now face another obstacle.

Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny announced on Facebook on Monday that the town building inspector had cited the Armoni after concluding from a visit by two town employees that it was preparing to "turn the hotel essentially into a NYC-run shelter."

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"That use constitutes a violation of the Certificate of Occupancy for the hotel," Kenny said.

Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny objects to New York City's plan to house 300 asylum seekers at a Rockland hotel to help manage the influx of migrants from the Southern border, May 8, 2023 in New City.

At Monday's press conference, Day and Kenny blasted the Adams administration for springing its plan for the Rockland hotel on them without consultation on Friday, and said the mayor and his aides were evasive when probed for details.

Under the city's plan the men would stay for up to four months in the two hotels, with the city paying for their lodging, food and medicine, as it would if they were lodged in New York City.

Day also questioned what the city planned to do with the men after four months and scoffed at the city's suggestion that they could find work in Rockland. He argued it would take longer than four months just for them to get federal work authorization.

"It's not four months," Day said. "If you're lucky, it's six months."

Housing migrants in a suburban, residential area is inappropriate, Kenny argued. She said the city still hadnt revealed how many men it plans to send or when, and if it had done criminal background checks on them.

Orangetown is ready to sue the city if it proceeds with the plan, Kenny said.

I implore the mayor to re-think this, she added.

Hotels geared up to take in migrants?

Dozens of mattresses and bed frames were seen stacked outside the Armoni front entrance on Friday, apparently to accommodate the asylum seekers. Kenny said inspectors who went inside on Sunday found stacks of shirts marked for social service workers and a room stocked with medicine. The Armoni owners haven't responded to requests for comment by the Journal News/lohud.

The other hotel that has agreed to board some of the city's asylum seekers is The Crossroads, off Interstate 84 in the town of Newburgh in Orange County. County and town officials said they were expecting up to 60 migrant men at that site.

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus announced Monday night that he issued an order prohibiting hotels, motels and short-term rental properties from housing migrants or asylum seekers. Newburgh Supervisor Gil Piaquadio told The Journal News/lohud he had asked Adams to delay sending migrants because The Crossroads is in a mostly residential area with few services in walking distance.

New York Mayor Eric Adams speaks in New York on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.

Day said Friday that the Armoni in Orangeburg was expected to house up to 340 immigrants, an estimate that was based on the expectation that the city would book all 171 rooms and place two men in each.

But city officials say they will send a total of up to 300 men to both hotels in Rockland and Orange  a number that depends on how many volunteer to go.

Adams, Day spar with fiery statements, accuse each other of racism

Day has denounced the housing plan and Adams himself with heated words, calling the mayor a bully and liar and sending this message to him during a radio interview on Saturday: Mr. Adams, you try to run us over, I will reach up and grab you by the throat.

Adams' spokesman, Fabien Levy, returned fire on Monday, accusing Day of "racist rhetoric and reprehensible threats." He said the city was sending Rockland - and paying for - a tiny fraction of the more than 61,000 migrants that the city has housed since last spring.

"We need the federal government to step up, but until they do, we need other elected officials around the state and country to do their part and emulate the humane and compassionate approach New York City has taken over the past year," Levy said in a statement. "The Rockland County executive has sadly already shown he is not a leader this state needs."

Asked about those remarks at Monday's press conference, Day shot back, "So we got the race card again."

"I think anybody who throws that card out that quickly has got his own set of problems, including being a racist himself," he said.

Then Day threw another jab: "The mayor is engaged in human trafficking of the worst kind. He's talking out both sides of his mouth, talking about how wonderful he's taking care of people, and what he's doing is putting them in the worst possible situation."

Congressman Mike Lawler objects to New York City's plan to house 300 asylum seekers at a Rockland hotel to help manage the influx of migrants from the Southern border, May 8, 2023 in New City.

Federal policies are to blame, officials claimed

Speaking after Day, Rep. Mike Lawler, a Rockland County Republican, blamed the Biden administration for failing to stem the flow of asylum seekers into the U.S, which he called a "humanitarian crisis."

"This is unfair to everybody involved, including those who are seeking a better life here," he said. "It doesn't work."

Liza Barrie, the Orangetown Democratic chairwoman, countered that blame lies instead with two Republican governors - Greg Abbott of Texas and Ron DeSantis of Florida - who have transported thousands of migrants to New York.

"Unfortunately, Rockland Republicans have followed their lead in politicizing the arrival of asylum seekers, stoking fear and hatred instead of seeking practical humanitarian solutions," Barrie said in a statement. "They should be ashamed of themselves."

Schenley Vital, chairman of the Rockland County Democratic Committee, called for comprehensive immigration reform to repair broken federal policies that have "the potential to have a profound effect on local communities, causing hardship and uncertainty for many individuals and families." He said it was "disappointing to see political leaders exploit a predicament to sow fear and ignorance."

City officials say they may later expand their new program by relocating asylum seekers to other hotels besides the initial two in Rockland and Orange. They are expecting a continued influx with the termination this week of Title 42, a policy the federal government used during the pandemic to expel hundreds of thousands of people who illegally crossed the southern border.

Staff writer Nancy Cutler contributed to this report.

Chris McKenna covers government and politics for The Journal News and USA Today Network. Reach him at cmckenna@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on New York State Team: Rockland order seeks to prevent plan to house asylum seekers at hotel
When Mary Brown was 6 years old, she pricked her finger and pressed it against the hand of her best friend Berlinda Tolbert.

It symbolized their lifetime commitment and pledge to forever be sisters. It was also around the time, nearly six decades ago, when the two entered the Morgan School  a segregated elementary school for Black children in Charlottes Cherry neighborhood.

Growing up together in Cherry, they knew the neighborhoods deep history and importance, Brown said. Years later, a community effort to preserve the historic Morgan School led Brown to learn her grandfather was among the first families to own property in Cherry.

I am in awe of this Black man  my grandfather  who had a dream for more, says Brown, who is now 73. Both for himself and for his family.

Cherry was platted in 1891, local historian Tom Hanchett wrote on his website. Browns maternal grandfather Jones Ross purchased property on Luther Street in 1901.

Almost all of Cherrys residents were skilled or semi-skilled laborers in its first two decades, the website reads, save for Ross. He worked as a butler and drayman.

It was this research Tolbert, who is the same age as Brown, discovered in 2021 as she joined the preservation efforts. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, which owned the building, was weighing a decision to sell the building. So Tolbert researched the neighborhood to help show the buildings significance to the community.

When she saw the name Ross it sounded familiar.

There could only be one Ross, Tolbert said. I knew Ella Ross (Browns mother) and then I thought is that her father?

It wasnt until she spoke with her aunt Juanita Tolbert that she made the connection. Her aunt recalled the man of many trades, she said. The two families had known each other for years.

Tolbert went on to an acting career in television, starring on CBS sitcom The Jeffersons. Brown became a beautician and entrepreneur. But the two always kept their sisterhood, Tolbert said.

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Brown said she had no clue her familys history in Cherry went back to the neighborhoods beginning. She knew her grandfather as a caring man. During the Great Depression, he collected canned goods to share with those in need, she said.

Ross penchant for helping others was well known, says Tolbert. When a child in Cherry fell into a mini-swamp he used his horse and bed wagon to save her, she said. He then collected gravel, straw and rocks to fill the swamp so no other child would fall in.

Her grandfather became like a hero in Cherry, Tolbert said.

Brown said it was inspiring to learn her grandfather owned property at the turn of the 20th century despite the barriers he faced back then. And finding out was all thanks to her best friend, Brown said.

I would never have known all this information about my grandfather and his historical footprint thats on Cherry, Brown said.

Connecting history

Kernels of history that are still being discovered is why preservation is key, Tolbert said. Cherrys drive to see the structure of Morgan School is about honoring the history of the school and the legacy of Cherry residents like Ross, she said.

These buildings are about people and peoples lives and investments, Tolbert said.

Sylvia Bittle-Patton, a Cherry native, said the Cherry Community Organization (CCO) wants a historic designation for both Morgan School and Cherry Park. The park is the first built for African Americans in Charlotte, Bittle-Patton said. The CCO itself is one of the oldest community development corporations in the city, she added.

Its a lot of history here, Bittle-Patton, whose mother Yvonne Bittle co-founded CCO, said.

Cherry organizers have fought to preserve the building since the schools closure in 1968. The goal is to turn the building into a multi-purpose facility for the Cherry community, Tolbert said.

In March, lawmaker Kelly Alexander Jr., who represents the 107th District in the N.C. House, filed a bill to support the purchase of the building. The bill asks for $4.9 million from the states historic preservation foundation to support the purchase.

But its about more than just a building, Brown said. It preserves a historical root in a community.

Its the connective tissue that will lead others to learn about Cherry residents like Ross.

Its not too late to stop destroying African American history, she said.
Friends of the Dover Public Library Meeting

DOVER  On Tuesday, May 9 at 6:30 p.m. If you love your library and want to get more involved, please consider joining the Friends of the Dover Public Library meeting. We're looking for some real go-getters who want to make DPL shine. If you can't make the meeting, but are interested in getting involved with the Friends, email us at libraryquestions@dover.nh.gov.

All Abilities Club: Art For All

DOVER  On Wednesday, May 10 at 11 a.m. join the All Abilities Club at the Dover Public Library. These weekly programs are geared towards adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their caregivers. In this inclusive program we will create art and craft projects and each session will feature a hands-on activity featuring different art explorations.

Hanging Basket and Green Thumb Plant Sale

DOVER  The GFWC - Dover Area Womans Club is holding its third Hanging Basket and Green Thumb Plant Sale. They are currently taking preorders for four types of floral baskets (order deadline May 11). Baskets are picked up on Saturday, May 20 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Dover Chamber of Commerce. Also on that day, they will have their Green Thumb member grown plant sale, along with a childrens planting table. Proceeds to benefit Haven NH and the Clubs volunteer programs. For more information visit FB event site GFWC-The Dover Area Womans Club or email gfwc.dawc@gmail.com.

Mothers Day Grief Support Workshop

EXETER Gather together with others who are also missing mom during this Mothers Day holiday for a one-day grief support workshop on Friday, May 12 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Exeter Hospital Campus, 4 Alumni Drive, Exeter. All groups and workshops are free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register contact Hillary Coughlin, Bereavement Coordinator at 603-660-4528.

Spring Cider Social

Butternut Farm's Spring Cider Social held Saturday, May 13, program lineup.

FARMINGTON  The Spring Cider Social held Saturday, May 13, is a one-day celebration of New Hampshire apples and agriculture, including cider tastings featuring Farnum Hill Ciders, Bird Dog Ciders, North Country Hard Cider, and Hermit Woods Winery; presentations on apple growing and cider-making; kids activities; a farm market with Meadowview Sugarhouse, Sanborn Hope Farm, and SeaBee Honey; as well as arts and crafts by Carrie Tazbir and CEI Designs. Food provided by Hot Mess Poutine and The Pink House. For full program lineup and tickets, visit newenglandapples.org.

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Somersworth Festival Association Spring Craft Fair

SOMERSWORTH  The Somersworth Festival Association is hosting its 30th Annual Spring Craft Fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 13 at Somersworth High School, 11 Memorial Drive, Somersworth, N.H. The craft fair will feature over 100 talented artisans offering wood crafts, laser engraved items, bird houses, home decor, paintings, mugs, tote bags, gnomes, wind chimes, kids' items, jewelry, doll clothes, and photography, as well as sewn, knitted, and crocheted items and more. Vendors will be inside and outside. There will also be raffles. The cafeteria will be offering food for sale.

For vendor inquiries or any questions, please email us at sfachild.festival@gmail.com, call us at 603-692-5869, or visit our website at www.nhfestivals.org .

Chapel Street Band Benefit Concert at St. Johns Church

The Chapel Street Band

PORTSMOUTH  All are welcomed to St. Johns Church, 101 Chapel St., Portsmouth, for an afternoon of heart-thumping music with The Chapel Street Band, followed by a festive reception, 50/50 raffle, and silent auction on Saturday, May 13, at 3:30 p.m. The event is free, and good-will donations accepted.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Plant sale, cider social, benefit concert: Community events May 8-14
MiG-29

Blaszczak thanked the Canadian government for contributing to the international effort to supply Ukraine with German-made Leopard main battle tanks, adding that he expects Russia's war against Ukraine to continue for a while.

Read also: Berlin signs off on Poland sending MiG-29 jets to Ukraine, report says

Unfortunately, the war in Ukraine will continue for a long time, at least it seems so, said Blaszczak.

This means that we must continue to work to curb the imperial ambitions of Russia, which is engaged in the practice of annexing the territories of neighboring countries.

Read also: NATO aviation alerted as Russian Su-35 intercepts Polish border plane over Black Sea

Poland and Slovakia were the first NATO countries to provide combat aircraft to Ukraine. Slovakia previously delivered four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine on March 23, and later delivered all 13 of the promised jets on April 17.

Read also: Russian MiG-31 jet crashes near Murmansk

Although Ukraine considers the transfer of these upgraded aircraft to be significant assistance, the countrys military insists it needs modern multi-purpose aircraft to achieve air superiority.

Read also: Bulgaria ready to send MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine  but with some conditions

Overall, Poland's transfer of fighter jets marks significant assistance for Ukraine, although it will likely a marginal effect on the course of the war.

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
Peru's La Esperanza mine, where 27 people died following an explosion and fire

Police have completed the recovery of 27 bodies from a gold mine in southern Peru following a devastating fire, authorities said on Monday.

The 27 workers at the mine in the town of Yanaquihua died after a short circuit caused an explosion that started a blaze inside one of the mine shafts.

The incident marked one of the worst mining tragedies in Peru in recent years.

"We have managed to recover the 27 workers' bodies. The recovery operation ended at 1:00 am," Yanaquihua Mayor James Casquino told the RPP radio station.

The bodies were taken to the morgue in the city of Arequipa, the regional capital, Casquino said.

The fire broke out on Saturday but rescue efforts were hampered by a buildup of toxic gases inside the La Esperanza 1 mine.

Rescue teams had pulled out the first 12 bodies on Sunday.

There were no survivors.

Most of the miners were from the southern Andean regions of Cusco and Puno.

Mining is one of the engines of the Peruvian economy, the largest gold and copper producer in Latin America, accounting for more than eight percent of GDP.

Last year, 39 people died in mining-related incidents, according to the mining and energy ministry.

cm/bc/bfm
Police are have released the names of the two people found dead after what they believe was a murder-suicide at a warehouse in North Kansas City last week.

Officers responded just after 10 a.m. Friday to the 1100 block of Fayette Street, where they found two people suffering from gunshot wounds inside the warehouse, police said. They believed a situation surrounding a domestic relationship led to the shooting.

Riley N. OLaughlin, 27, and John C. Hadley. 36, have been identified as the two people who both died from their injuries at the hospital, police said.

On April 22, OLaughlin reported to police that she had been kidnapped from 1122 Fayette St.

The shooting remains under investigation.
Keith Marsh, 22, was shot and killed while outside his apartment on the East Side on May 8, 2014. He was survived by a daughter, who was 3 years old at the time.

Information leading to an arrest of a suspect nine years after an East Side man was fatally shot while smoking outside his home could lead to a cash reward.

Keith Marsh, 22, was killed in 2014 after an unidentified person approached him outside his apartment on the 200 block of Mayfair Boulevard and shot him while Marsh was smoking. Marsh was able to make it back inside the apartment, where he collapsed on the kitchen floor.

Police and medics were called to the scene around 10:45 p.m. on May 8, when Marsh was ultimately pronounced dead.

Anyone with information is asked to call Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 (TIPS,) use the free P3 Tips mobile application or provide information online at www.stopcrime.org. All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous and a special coding system is used to provide the cash reward.

elagatta@dispatch.com

@EricLagatta

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus police seek info on 2014 fatal shooting of East Side man
Nearly half of independent voters say they dont trust Republicans or Democrats to handle education policy, according to a new poll by a Democratic group.

The survey, conducted by Democrats for Education Reform (DFER), shows a stark partisan divide on education, with 88 percent of Democrats saying they trust their party on the issue, 84 percent of Republicans siding with theirs, and 49 percent of independents saying they dont trust either party.

Democrats hold an edge over the remaining half of independents, with 24 percent saying they trust Democrats strongly or somewhat and only 18 percent siding with Republicans.

Education has become a hot partisan issue over the last few election cycles, playing a key role in upset victories, including GOP Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkins in 2021.

The issue, along with divisiveness over book banning in schools and starkly different partisan views of school choice, is expected to play a central role in the 2024 presidential election.

According to the poll, Democratic and independent voters favor expanding school choice by improving public schools and creating magnet schools, charter schools and career academies. That option was favored by 70 percent of Democratic respondents, 64 percent of independent respondents and 50 percent of Republican respondents.

A school voucher system, generally favored by conservative policymakers, was favored by 50 percent of Republicans, 30 percent of Democrats and 36 percent of independent voters surveyed in the poll.

Hispanic parents overall were more likely to support school vouchers  43 percent of Hispanic respondents said they would support vouchers over school choice, while 38 percent of white respondents and 33 percent of Black respondents agreed.

The poll, commissioned by the partisan DFER, asked respondents whether they had concerns about voting for Republicans, who have inserted politics into our schools by banning books they dont like.

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Most respondents said those actions raised concerns about voting for Republicans  38 percent said they had serious concerns, 18 percent said they had somewhat serious concerns, 13 percent said they had not too serious concerns, and 21 percent said they had no concerns about voting for Republicans related to book bans.

The poll was conducted in April by Emerson College Polling for DFER via cellphones, email and an online panel among 1,000 respondents with a credibility interval of plus or minus 3 percent.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Ukraine wants to see Russian dictator Putin on the dock in The Hague for war crimes committed by the Russian army

The poll, conducted by the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives foundation and the Razumkov Center think tank at the end of March found that 82.2% of respondents strongly agreed that Putin was todays Hitler, while 11.8% rather agree.

Read also: Over 60% of Ukrainians think Ukraine should try to liberate all territories, including Crimea  poll

Only slightly more than 1% of Ukrainians do not consider Putin a modern-day Hitler at all.

The respondents also named the war crimes committed by Russia since the beginning of the full-scale war that were most memorable. Among them are the shootings and torture of Bucha residents by the Russian military, the massacre of civilians in Mariupol and the airstrike on the Drama Theater, as well as the killing of captured Ukrainian soldiers in Olenivka.

Read also: Poll reveals 65% of Europeans support sanctions against Russia and arms supply to Ukraine

Sociologists note that many other war crimes of the Russian troops that will forever remain in the collective memory of Ukrainians are also associated with the deliberate killing of civilians as a result of missile attacks, indiscriminate shelling of frontline cities, and torture of residents of the occupied territories.

When asked which events the respondents associate with grief and despair, most people mentioned the consequences of Russia's war crimes.

Some 24% of Ukrainians called the death of people the most traumatic event during the war. Another 22% also associate despair and grief with bombings and missile attacks, and 16% mention massacres and mass murders of the population in the occupied territories of Ukraine.

The survey was conducted from March 23-30. A total of 2,017 people were interviewed in person in all oblasts of Ukraine, except for the occupied territories of Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhya, Kherson, and those where active hostilities are taking place.

Read also: Poll reveals over 80% of Ukrainians support joining NATO

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The polls margin of statistical error does not exceed 2.3%.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A shooting incident late Friday night has left a Pontiac woman injured and led to a manhunt for the suspect.

According to information released by Pontiac Police, an incident took place in the 400 block of West Cleary Street late Friday night. Police responded to the call at 11:23 p.m. that a person had suffered a gunshot wound. The call came moments after the shooting.

Upon arrival, police found a 36-year-old woman had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and immediately began administering first aid.

The female was alert and able to tell officers that an unidentified male had approached her and fired approximately four shots in her direction from a handgun, the release stated.

The victim was transported to a medical care facility where she was described to be in stable condition, the released noted.

Pontiac Police Chief Dan Davis said Monday that it was not believed that the injuries were life-threatening.

The shooter, described as a male wearing blue jeans, a black hooded sweatshirt and a black ski mask, immediately fled the scene in an unknown direction.

With the assistance of Livingston County Sheriff's Department and Illinois State Police personnel, Pontiac Police set up a perimeter in the area in an effort to search for the suspect.

The release also noted that Pontiac Police this to be a targeted incident and that investigators needed to speak with several persons of interest. Davis pointed out Monday that a number of people have been interviewed, but there are still some who police are expecting to contact.

The case is still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Bray with the Pontiac Police Department at 815-844-5148.

This article originally appeared on Pontiac Daily Leader: Pontiac woman suffers gunshot wounds in apparent attack
Fort Worth restaurateur Marcus Paslay, owner of Clay Pigeon Food + Drink and Piattello Italian Kitchen, has bought the 42-year-old Mercado Juarez Cafes, including a landmark location at the gateway to the Stockyards.

The restaurants at 1651 E. Northside Drive in Fort Worth, and 125 Interstate 20 East in Arlington, will continue with the same legacy food, Paslay said, including the signature warm table salsa.

Mercado Juarez Cafes were founded by late Fort Worth Tex-Mex restaurant pioneer Don Bowden. He opened five locations at the peak of 1980s demand for sizzling fajitas, then new to the market, and frozen margaritas.

When Bowden retired nearly 20 years ago, he sold the restaurants to their managers, who recently sold them to Paslay, he said.

The sale was first reported by CultureMap Fort Worth.

Its a really good business with a lot of potential, said Paslay, also owner of Provender Hall in the Stockyards and the forthcoming Walloons on West Magnolia Avenue.

Paslay said he remembered dining at the south Arlington restaurant several times as a junior high student, long before the development of Arlington Highlands and surrounding shopping centers.

Both the Arlington and Fort Worth locations offer freeway real estate. The Fort Worth location is at the primary exit for traffic going to or from the Stockyards. Its also popular with many Big 12 Conference visitors going to TCU games.

Anytime you have a chance for a place thats been in business 40 years  thats somewhere special, Paslay said. Once I learned how many second- and third-generation customers are still coming, it made a lot of sense. The food is very good.

He hopes to expand bar offerings, he said.

Mercado Juarez originally served cabrito, costillas and seafood dishes such as lobster tail and swordfish fajitas.

The entryways were lined with gift shops and stalls like a city market in Mexico.

Bowden had been a partner in expanding the Panchos Mexican Buffet chain to north Texas and then opened a smaller Tex-Mex restaurant, Dos Gringos, in the Cultural District.

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The first Mercado Juarez opened at 1901 W. Northwest Highway in northwest Dallas.

A long-gone 1976 location in north Arlington, still vacant at 2222 Miller Road, became a must-stop before and after Texas Rangers games.

A Mercado Juarez also operated briefly in the now-demolished former Cullen and Priscilla Davis mansion, 4100 Stonegate Blvd., 20 years after of a notorious 1976 multiple shooting where Priscilla Davis boyfriend and 12-year-old daughter were killed and Priscilla and another man were injured.
A 56-year-old Portland woman and a teenager were killed early Sunday in a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5 through Albany near the junction with U.S. Route 20, according to the Oregon State Police.

A preliminary investigation determined the northbound driver of an Infiniti QX5 rear-ended a Nissan Rogue at about 3:17 a.m., causing the Infinity to leave the freeway and strike several trees, OSP said.

The driver of the Infiniti was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Two passengers in the Infinity, Kimberly Ritter of Portland and the teenager, were declared dead at the scene. A second teenager was taken to the hospital with critical injuries.

The driver of the Nissan was not injured.

OSP was assisted by the Albany Fire Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation. An investigation into the crash is ongoing.

.

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Portland woman, teen die in crash on I-5 in Albany, Oregon
Jessica Buderus, a second-grade teacher at Liberty Point Elementary School in Pueblo West, Colo., teaches students spelling on May 3, 2023.

Pueblo school districts will have extra funding to go around thanks to Colorado's passage of the 2023-24 School Finance Act on Monday, May 1.

Statewide, the School Finance Act allocates $180 million toward "buying down" the state's budget stabilization factor  a budgeting tool that has reduced funding received by the state's public school districts since 2009. Pueblo County School District 70 will receive an additional $8.3 million in the upcoming fiscal year through the buy-down. Pueblo School District 60 will receive approximately $12.7 million.

D70 Alternative Learning Academy: 'A new mission': Pueblo D70 school's name change comes with expansion of offerings

The budget stabilization factor, sometimes deridingly called the "B.S. factor" by public education supporters, was established to balance the state budget during the Great Recession. However, it has diverted more than $300 million from Pueblo County schools over a 14-year period since its adoption.

Since 2009, Pueblo D60 has lost more than $199 million as a result of the budget stabilization factor, according to the Colorado School Finance Project. Pueblo County D70 has lost more than $103 million. The combined deficit for school districts across the state created by the measure is more than $10 billion.

While the specific impacts of the School Finance Act's buy-down of the budget stabilization factor are uncertain, Pueblo Education Association President Mike Maes said it is a "huge positive" and a step toward fulfilling Gov. Jared Polis' promise to eliminate the budget stabilization factor.

"One of the things we're concerned about is recruiting and retaining teachers," Maes said. "Being able to have more funding in the budget to put towards salaries for all of our educators, all of our employees, will be a plus."

The Pueblo Education Association is the union representing educators in Pueblo D60. Allison Balas is president of the Pueblo County Education Association, representing educators in Pueblo D70. Similar to Maes, she hopes Pueblo D70 will allocate its funding with a priority on ensuring "livable wages" for educators.

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With the exception of online school districts, Pueblo D70 is the lowest-funded district in the state. The district received $9,067.64 per pupil during the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to the Colorado Department of Education. Pueblo D70 remains in discussion about where its incoming $8.3 million in School Finance Act funds will be allocated.

"Every increase (in funding) will be put to use to help us provide the best possible education experience for our students," said Lynnette Bonfiglio, public information officer for Pueblo D70.

Pueblo D60 received $9,740.59 per pupil in fiscal year 2022-23. In allocating School Finance Act funds, Pueblo D60 will employ a philosophy similar to that of Pueblo D70. Funding will be applied to best guide Pueblo D60 students toward "lives of purpose and impact," communications director Dalton Sprouse said.

Walk of Legends Park: 3 pioneers are immortalized in the new Walk of Legends Park. Here's who they were

While funding created by this year's School Finance Act is appreciated, school districts remain underfunded, Sprouse said on behalf of Pueblo D60.

"All public school districts throughout the state continue to be drastically underfunded," he said "While this is a positive step forward, much needs to be done to fund districts at the level they require. It is a situation that we are constantly looking to change through engagement at the state level."

Pueblo Chieftain reporter James Bartolo can be reached at JBartolo@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: What Colorado's 2023 School Finance Act means for Pueblo schools
Democrat Brandon Presleys task of defeating incumbent Republican Gov. Tate Reeves in the November general election seems insurmountable.

After all, a Republican has won seven of the last eight gubernatorial elections and that lone Democratic victory came way back in 1999.

To further hammer home the point, a Democratic nominee for president has not won Mississippi since Jimmy Carter in 1976.

In 2019, Reeves defeated his Democratic opponent  four-term Attorney General Jim Hood  by a little more than 5% or about 45,000 votes. Even though history over the last three decades or so paints a bleak picture for Presleys prospects, recent statewide election results might provide a glimmer of hope.

That glimmer can be gleaned, at least in part, from the fact that Hood and Presley are both native sons of northeast Mississippi.

While northeast Mississippi was once a power base for the so-called rural white Democrats, the partys standing in the area has declined dramatically over the last 20 years or more. Even during that Democratic decline, though, the area remained loyal to native son Hood through four successful elections for attorney general.

But in his 2019 gubernatorial election defeat, Hood garnered about 12,500 less votes in the 10 most extreme northeast Mississippi counties than he did in his last race for attorney general against former Republican U.S. attorney Mike Hurst in 2015. And perhaps more importantly, in 2011 Hood won 26,000 votes more in those 10 counties against former Public Safety Commissioner Steve Simpson than he did against Reeves in 2019.

Presley, who has been on the ballot for the post of Northern District Public Service commissioner four times in those counties, would need to replicate the success Hood had in his elections for attorney general. And it would help if he could replicate Hoods 2011 effort opposed to his 2015 showing.

In reality, Presleys showing in those 10 northeast Mississippi counties in his Public Service commission races was as strong or stronger than Hoods. But it should be pointed out that during those elections the state Republican Party apparatus put much more of an emphasis on defeating Hood, who was Mississippis only statewide elected Democrat for 12 years, than it did on defeating a Northern District Public Service commissioner.

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So, the point is that there are votes in those counties that both Hood and Presley got in the past, but that Hood did not capture in his 2019 bid against Reeves.

But even if Presley could repeat Hoods 2011 showing in those 10 counties based on the margin of victory Reeves had in 2019, Presley still would be about 19,000 votes short of victory.

Perhaps the state Democratic Party is to the point of getting excited about close losses. Presley, though, would not be welcoming of a moral victory.

But maybe there are more votes to be found.

Brad Chism, a Mississippi based Democratic consultant and pollster, based on his research at the time estimated that African Americans made up 31% of the total turnout in the 2019 governors election and 35% of the turnout in the first Mike Espy-Cindy Hyde-Smith U.S. Senate election in 2018.

So, in other words, if Presley could repeat past Democratic glories in northeast Mississippi and get African Americans, who tend to vote Democratic in Mississippi, to vote at the Espy-Hyde-Smith election levels, there would perhaps be a path to victory for Presley.

There might be other paths to victory for Presley, but the bottom line is that all of those paths are narrow and rocky.

And most likely, a combination of Black voter turnout and a stronger showing in northeast Mississippi is the less rocky path.

This analysis was produced by Mississippi Today, a nonprofit news organization that covers state government, public policy, politics and culture. Bobby Harrison is Mississippi Todays senior Capitol reporter.
The Kremlin has found a new role for Russian General Surovikin

Yevgeniy Prigozhin's press office reported on Telegram that Surovikin was now in charge of all coordination between the Wagner company and the Russian Defense Ministry.

Read also: Military observer analyses ongoing media battle between Prigozhin, Kadyrov, and Russian Defense Ministry

This is the only general in the Russian army capable of fighting. There are no smart generals at all," Prigozhin said.

The mercenaries have been promised enough ammunition and weapons to continue fighting, Prigozhin added.

"They've pledged to put everything on the flank to prevent the enemy from cutting us off," he said.

Read also: After Prigozhins statement about leaving Bakhmut, Malyar says Russia will try to capture city by May 9

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian army explained Prigozhin's recent claims that his fighters were suffering from "shell hunger."

Obviously, the Wagner leader had some obligations which he couldn't fulfill, Ukrainian Armed Forces Eastern groupings spokesperson, Serhiy Cherevaty, said on national television.

"The main reason behind Prigozhin's claims is that he has undertaken military obligations but is not able to fulfill them, including the capture of Bakhmut, and is making up this nonsense about shell hunger," Cherevaty said.

The Russian invasion forces fired on the Ukrainian positions 415 times over the past day and 489 times over the previous day, the spokesperson added.

Prigozhin's main problem, in fact, is the elimination of his mercenaries by Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut. It's difficult to replenish these losses as he isn't able to recruit prisoners anymore.

Read also: Russia attacks Bakhmut with phosphorous munitions  video

"The government doesn't send prisoners, and the prisoners themselves are not very eager to go, realizing that it is a one-way ticket," Cherevaty said.

Earlier, in an expletive-laden address, Wagner's leader publicly demanded that Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov provide him with munitions. He threatened to withdraw his fighters from Bakhmut on May 10 if the ammunition was not provided.

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Stepping into the fray, Chechnya warlord Ramzan Kadyrov declared his readiness to replace Wagner mercenaries with Akhmat paramilitary organization units from Chechnya.

Russia has been continuing offensive efforts in the front line Donetsk Oblast town of Bakhmut for ten months in a row, but has been unable to complete its capture, with the Ukrainian army is still defending part of the west of the town.

Read also: Ukrainian soldier reports on situation in Bakhmut, and about enemy attacks

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
King Charles III and Camilla, the queen consort, were surrounded by family for Sundays coronation concert at Windsor Castle.

William and Catherine, Prince and Princess of Wales, were seated next to the newly crowned king and queen consort along with two of their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

Photos captured from the event May 7 show the royal family having a blast during the concert, particularly George, 9, and Charlotte, 8.

Charlotte appeared to burst into laughter at one point and throughout the concert, had animated reactions to the songs and surprises.

BRITAIN-ROYALS-CORONATION-CONCERT (STEFAN ROUSSEAU / POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The BBC reported that Charlotte laughed when Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy made their way onto the stage alongside the concert's host, "Downton Abbey" star Hugh Bonneville.

BRITAIN-ROYALS-CORONATION-CONCERT (STEFAN ROUSSEAU / POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Miss Piggy then made a joke about Bonneville, confusing the actor with his character from the historical drama, Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, that even appeared to make the king laugh, the BBC reported.

Another photo caught a sweet father-son moment between William and George.

In the picture, the prince smiled as he pointed to the stage with his eldest son laughing beside him.

BRITAIN-ROYALS-CORONATION-CONCERT (STEFAN ROUSSEAU / POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Charlotte was also spotted singing along to Katy Perry's hit song "Roar" during the concert, and by the time British pop group Take That's finale rolled around, the entire family was on their feet, waving their flags and dancing.

BRITAIN-ROYALS-CORONATION-CONCERT (STEFAN ROUSSEAU / POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Charles coronation weekend was packed with activities, including the concert.

Among the headliners for the performance were Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, Andrea Bocelli and Take That. Other performers from the evening including Paloma Faith, Olly Murs and Nicole Scherzinger.

While Prince Louis, newly 5, appeared to not be in attendance at the concert with his parents or siblings, he delivered his usual adorable antics at both the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey and the royal familys balcony appearance.

Amid the ceremony at the church, Louis was photographed as he appeared to be mid-yawn while sitting between his sister and mom.

While on the balcony, Louis also pulled a couple of hilarious moves, including waving with both of his hands at the crowd below. In another shot, he looked up and pointed toward the sky amid the flyover by the Royal Air Force.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Meghan Markle was spotted on a hike in Montecito Sunday after skipping out on King Charles' coronation weekend.

Markle, 41, was joined by friends Markus Anderson and Heather Dorak on the hike. Prince Harry and the couple's children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, were not with them.

The "Suits" actress wore a black tank top paired with black leggings for the outing. Markle further accessorized with a hat, a bandana and sunglasses. Despite skipping the royal festivities, Markle honored the late Princess Diana by wearing her watch for the hike.

The Duchess of Sussex wears the Cartier watch nearly every day, according to Page Six. Markle also sported a diamond tennis bracelet, that's believed to have been gifted to Diana from Charles during their marriage. Two diamonds from the bracelet were used to create Markle's engagement ring.

Meghan Markle spent Sunday hiking after skipping King Charles' coronation.

Meghan Markle was joined by friends for her hike near the Montecito home she shares with her husband Prince Harry.

PRINCE HARRY CONTINUES TO SLIGHT KING CHARLES WITH HEARTLESS BEHAVIOR: EXPERT

Princess Diana wearing the $25,000 Cartier watch in 1995.

While Markle was in California, Prince Harry attended the coronation ceremony of his father alone on Saturday.

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However, he promptly left London after it was over. The Duke of Sussex did not attend the family luncheon at Buckingham Palace despite being invited.

"How lovely of the royal family yet again to have extended the olive branch," British royals expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital.

The Duke of Sussex at the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey.

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Although he did attend the coronation, Prince Harry was excluded from the official portraits released Monday.

The group photo, which feature the senior working royal family members, includes The Duke of Kent, The Duchess of Gloucester, The Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, The Princess Royal, The King, The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Princess of Wales, The Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra, the Hon. Lady Ogilvy and The Duke of Edinburgh.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are pictured with members of the working royal family: (L-R) Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, Birgitte, Duchess of Gloucester, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, Anne, Princess Royal, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, The Prince of Wales, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh on May 8, 2023 in London, England.

Prince Harry and Markle stepped back from their roles as senior royals in January 2020.

Since then, the couple has settled in their California home to raise their two children.
Prince Louis took control of a digger as royals joined the Big Help Out day of volunteering on Monday, while his grandfather the King issued sincere and heartfelt thanks to the nation for the coronation festivities.

The young royal joined Prince George and Princess Charlotte in helping renovate a Scout hut site in Slough, Berkshire under the watchful eye of their parents the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Eager to try everything from shovelling sand to painting a planter base and wheeling a barrow, the five-year-old royal ended the day splashed with paint but got his reward - a marshmallow-and-chocolate biscuit sandwich.

Later, the five-year-old prince was given the task of filling a wheelbarrow with builders' sand and he focused on the job, diligently shovelling the material before wheeling the barrow himself.

Nearby, George was given a drill and screwed wooden planters together, helped by a volunteer, as his father also assembled the boxes and at the end William quipped they would have to clean up my mess.

Prince Louis does a bit of digging with supervision from the Prince of Wales (AP)

Kensington Palace described the event as Louis' first royal engagement, although he has attended a number of high-profile royal events it is thought the Slough visit was the first time the prince has actively engaged with the public.

Matt Hyde, chief executive of The Scout Association, said the royals had an incredible time.

Elsewhere, the Archbishop of Canterbury donned a denim Bon Jovi apron as he served lunch at a homeless charity, two days after crowning King Charles.

Justin Welby protected his clerical collar with the pinny which featured the rockers' winged emblem as he lent a hand at Catching Lives in Canterbury.

Lambeth Palace, the Archbishop's office, said it was delighted with the "enthusiasm and support" for the King and Queen's "joyful and inspiring" coronation service.

The Archbishop of Canterbury serves lunch at Catching Lives Open centre (Neil Turner/PA)

The Archbishop, who is patron of the charity, was joined by his wife, Caroline, as he handed over plates of cottage pie while working in the kitchen during the national volunteering drive on Monday at the end of the coronation weekend.

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The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh helped at a puppy class for trainee Guide Dogs in Reading, while Princess Anne attend a County Civic Service recognising local volunteers in Gloucester Cathedral.

Later Buckingham Palace issued new portraits of King Charles, Queen Camilla and the senior royals from coronation day, taken by former Tatler photographer Hugo Burnand who took the couple's official wedding photos in 2005 and for William and Kate's nuptials in 2011.

King Charles III in full regalia in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace (Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/PA)

Among them, the King was captured in his full regalia - wearing the Imperial State Crown, holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross, and dressed in his regal purple tunic and Robe of Estate, seated on a Throne Chair in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace.

Camilla was pictured alongside the King, and also in a solo portrait, wearing Queen Mary's Crown, with the train of her lengthy embroidered Robe of Estate spread in front of her.

Buckingham Palace released royal portraits (Hugo Burnand/Buckinham Palace/Getty)

The working royal family - the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Edinburghs, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke of Kent, the Gloucesters and Princess Alexandra - were also photographed stood with the King and Queen in the images by Hugo Burnand.

As the weekend of festivities came to a close, the king issued a special written coronation message, saying: "We thank you, each and every one."

The king, signing his words Charles R, said he and Camilla gave our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

He used his message to issue an affirmation for the rest of his reign, saying he and Camilla would now rededicate our lives to royal service.

One of the portraits released on Monday featuring senior royals (PA)

He added: To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.

The king also paid tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.

Meanwhile, Scotlands first minister said some people will be uncomfortable over the amount spent on the coronation during a cost-of-living crisis.

"I made it pretty clear that I hope that the costs would be kept to a minimum," the Hamza Yousaf said during a visit to a community larder in Dundee as party of the Big Help Out. I think a number of folk will have felt uncomfortable with the costs that were involved.
A lending program tied to the West End TIF legislation meant to help homeowners combat rising property taxes is slowly getting off the ground amid a reassessment that has sent property values skyrocketing.

This years property value reassessment covers west and southwest Jefferson County, including Louisvilles nine West End neighborhoods.

Compared to the last reassessment in 2019, the median assessed value for area 1 (which covers the West End, the central business district and Old Louisville) has jumped nearly 63%.

Properties in the outlined areas of west and southwest Jefferson County are being reassessed this year by the Jefferson County Property Valuation Administration.

That rise, well above typical increases in assessed value, is calling attention to the homeowner protections outlined in the West End TIF legislation and fast-tracking the creation of the loan program that, as of April, exists only on paper.

There is some work to do on our end to put the process together, said Laura Douglas, interim president and CEO of the West End Opportunity Partnership, which controls the TIF. But again, we would not have to implement the process until people actually receive their (property tax) bills in November.

How does the tax credit connected to the West End TIF work?

The tax increment financing (TIF) district is intended to incentivize investment and spur revitalization throughout the nine neighborhoods of Louisvilles West End, with 80% of new tax revenues going to the partnerships board to determine how to reinvest that money into the area.

To help fight resident displacement, the legislation also created a tax credit for homeowners who might see their property taxes rise because of economic investment.

Essentially, homeowners can apply for a tax credit on their individual income taxes for however much their property taxes rise over 2021 numbers.

So, while the tax credit is based on a rise in property taxes, it is credited through income taxes.

These are the requirements to qualify for the development area tax credit, per state law:

The property needs to be the owners principal residence

Must be located within the TIF district (Parkland, Shawnee, Hallmark, Park Duvalle, Russell, Portland, California, Chickasaw, Park Hill and Algonquin neighborhoods)

Was owned as of Jan. 1, 2021

The tax credit ends if the property is sold by the owner or when the TIF expires, whichever comes first

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How much is credited is the difference between 2021 property tax levels and the given tax year. For example, if a homeowner owed $1,000 in property taxes on their 2021 tax bill and in 2023 owed $1,500, their credit would be $500.

You may like: West, southwest Louisville home values are being reassessed. Here's what to know

This income tax credit is refundable, meaning tax filers would receive the credit dollar-for-dollar, regardless of how much they owe in income taxes.

Using the same example, if a taxpayer owes zero income tax, the state would cut them a check for $500. If they owe $3,000 in property taxes, the credit would reduce the tax liability to $2,500.

How many people applied for the West End TIF tax credit?

Its not clear how many homeowners, if any, sought the tax credit on their 2022 individual income tax return.

Kinsey Morrison, spokesperson for the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet said the states Department of Revenue doesnt yet know how many people applied for the credit on their 2022 return.

The credit was listed on the 2022 Kentucky individual income tax form, as were instructions on how to apply for the credit.

As of mid-April, Douglas said the board had not yet spoken with the Kentucky Department of Revenue about the tax credit.

What is the loan program tied to the West End Opportunity Partnership?

The lending program is a small but mandated part of the 2021 legislation that created the West End Opportunity Partnership, its board, and the associated TIF district.

State law tasks the board overseeing the West End TIF with creating a short-term loan program that fronts homeowners the difference between their 2021 property tax bill and the given tax year (not the full amount of the property tax).

Because the tax credit is through an individuals income tax and not a credit applied toward their property tax bill, property owners need to pay their property tax bill in full and later would feel the effects of the credit via their income taxes.

Statute also requires the board to raise awareness of the tax credit and assist those who qualify in filling out the necessary paperwork for seeking the credit.

This is a way for them not to fall through the cracks and to somehow be punished as the community is rising up economically, Douglas said.

How can West End homeowners apply for the loan?

Exactly how West End homeowners can go about seeking this loan is still in development, as are the terms of the loan. The topic was added to the April meetings of the boards finance committee and the general board.

At the partnerships board meeting, Douglas said there was an awful lot to work out and explain to the man on the street.

Which is why we do need to kind of widen and bring other people in the circle, other resources that can help us design something thats credible, where people feel comfortable, she said.

She floated the possibility of contracting out the lending program and noted the board was in the process of securing a financial advisor, who could assist in the development of the program.

The loan money will come from the assets of the partnership, which currently sit at just more than $30 million.

How many homeowners qualify for the tax credit?

There is no current estimate of how many homeowners would qualify for the tax credit nor how much could potentially be loaned, partnership board members said at the meeting.

About 40% of households throughout the West End (home to some 60,000 residents) are owner-occupied, compared to 62% for Jefferson County overall, according to 2020 U.S. Census Bureau data.

Business reporter Matthew Glowicki can be reached at mglowicki@courier-journal.com, 502-582-4000 or on Twitter @mattglo.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Property tax relief program tied to West End TIF to launch in 2023
A mockup of the Messina Strait Bridge to connect Sicily and mainland Italy. Webuild sPa

The island of Sicily is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, but getting there can still prove a challenge. While there are a number of ferries that travel back and forth, there has never been a drivable route from the island to the Italian mainland. The country is looking to change that, though, by building a bridge across the Strait of Messina, which separates Sicily from the Italian Peninsula.

The idea for the bridge is not new, dating all the way back to the Roman Empire, CNN reports. And after generations of delay, the project may finally be realized now that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has revived a plan for its construction. If completed, the bridge would span more than two miles, 60 percent longer than the world's current longest suspension bridge.

While some are confident the project would positively transform cross-strait travel, others aren't sure the pros of such a structure outweigh the cons. Here are some of the arguments on either side of the debate:

Pro: It would connect Italy

A bridge could help build cultural links between the Italian mainland and the separated island of Sicily, which is home to nearly five million people. Indeed, the island "is considered a territory apart from the rest of Italy and the bridge  a physical link  would unify it with the continent," Federico Basile, mayor of Messina (the island's third-largest city), told the Financial Times.

Con: It's very expensive

Opposition lawmaker Angelo Bonelli in April described the bridge project as "a political and media fraud" due to its proposed price tag, which could reach up to $16.14 billion, per the Italian Finance Ministry. That figure could also keep rising if construction were to get delayed.

Even among those in favor, "many think the project will simply be too expensive to justify," Jalopnik writes. The last attempt to build the bridge was shut down in 2013 by former Prime Minister Mario Monti, who cited rising costs as the main factor in the decision.

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Pro: It could cut down travel time

For those that live on the island, the quickest way to get to the mainland is a two-hour ferry. Travelers can also grab "a direct air-conditioned Intercity train to Sicily from Rome or Naples [via ferry], or connect in these cities from across Italy," per the European Interrail company. But neither option is as cheap or as convenient as a bridge, which would cut travel time to "under 10 minutes," Wired reports. The structure would also make it easier and faster for Sicilians to reach the Villa San Giovanni port on the mainland, a key access point for imports and exports.

Con: The Mafia could get involved

Southern Italy has long been drenched in corruption, and "ties between organized crime and local politicians run deep," The New York Times reported in 2012.

Indeed, two major crime syndicates in the area  'Ndrangheta and Cosa Nostra  "[excel] in infiltrating construction projects," CNN writes. And an anti-Mafia study that is currently being updated warns that "parts of the project, such as transport and supply, could fall under criminal control, as well as there being the possibility local mobs could demand protection money," the outlet adds.

Pro: It would create thousands of jobs

Michele Longo, engineering director of Webuild, the company vying to build the bridge, told CNN that the construction phase alone would employ up to 100,000 people and 300 different suppliers. Most of these people "would come from the regions of Sicily and Calabria where there the rates of unemployment are high," she added.

In 2021, Sicily had an unemployment rate of 18.7 percent, per Eurostat. A 2017 study from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development also found that Italy had the highest rates of youth unemployment among the group's 35 member nations. Construction of the bridge, which will likely take years, could help quell some of that joblessness.

Con: It could harm the environment

The Messina Strait straddles two environmentally-protected zones, Dante Caserta, vice president of Italy's World Wildlife Fund branch, told Wired. As a result, the area is "crucial to the migratory movements of seabirds and sea mammals."

But construction could potentially harm the strait's wildlife, the WWF asserted. The Italian environmentalist group Legambiente agreed, having told CNN in a statement that the Messina is "one of the highest concentrations of biodiversity in the world." A bridge could significantly disrupt the migration routes of these animals, causing ecological consequences, the group added.

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Myanmar held a motion picture academy awards presentation ceremony in its capital Nay Pyi Taw on Saturday evening, the state media reported.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chairman of Myanmar's State Administration Council Vice Senior General Soe Win said that it is the 64th Myanmar Motion Picture Awards Presentation Ceremony, which will present the awards for the years of 2019, 2020, and 2022.

He said that Myanmar's film industry has contributed to the country's social life and other sectors, creating and presenting artworks that reflected the country's real situations.

A total of 22 academy awards including special awards for the years of 2019, 2020, and 2022 were presented to the country's artists during the ceremony.

Aiming at encouraging domestic film production, the film academy award presentations have been held since 1952. Myanmar has produced more than 4,000 films since the start of the film industry.

The last film academy award presentation for 2018 was held in Yangon in March 2019, in which 12 awards were presented.
Federal prosecutors are opposing a proposal that would allow defense lawyers for Payton Gendron to share evidence with the families of the 10 Black people Gendron fatally shot in Buffalo last year.

Families for the victims want to sue online digital platforms that they maintain helped racially radicalize Gendron, who is now 19. They also are eying lawsuits against a gun manufacturer and others; Gendron clad himself in body armor and, on May 14, murdered 10 people with a semi-automatic rifle at a Tops supermarket in East Buffalo.

He set out solely to target Black people in a neighborhood with a large African-American population.

Gendron has pleaded guilty to state murder and hate crime charges in exchange for a sentence of life without parole. However, a federal criminal case is still pending, and he could face the death penalty if convicted at trial. His lawyers from the Federal Public Defender's Office say he is also willing to plead guilty and agree to another sentence of life without parole.

Defense lawyers have shared some evidence with the civil lawyers  information that they say is limited to his computer and cellphone data and online history. A court order has prevented them from allowing the civil lawyers to copy any of that information, and last week the federal defense lawyers proposed a revised order that would give the civil attorneys the okay to make copies of evidence.

File photo: People came to the area of the Tops Friendly Market in Buffalo May 16, 2022, to leave flowers and help their neighbors.

In a response filed late Thursday, prosecutors with the U.S. Attorney's Office rejected the proposal, writing that there is grand jury information that should not be shared. "Neither the defendant, his attorneys, nor civil attorneys pursuing civil lawsuits have the authority to usurp the privacy interests of many people whose private information was acquired during the course of the grand jury investigation," the prosecutors wrote.

In fact, the prosecutors wrote, the existing order does not permit any sharing of information with the civil lawyers without the court's permission. The defense proposal to share evidence with the civil lawyers could well be an "attempt to distract from the facts of the case (and) potentially influence the governments death penalty decision," the prosecutors contended.

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The possible exchange of evidence has set up a strange scenario, to a degree aligning Gendron's federal defense attorneys with the wishes of some of the victims' families.

Garnell Whitfield Jr., whose 86-year-old mother Ruth Whitfield was one of those killed at Tops, said in an interview that he understood that the prosecutorial goal is "getting the conviction on the perpetrator of this crime."

But by itself a conviction does not tackle the racist undergirding of the murders, Whitfield said. Instead, civil lawsuits could more expansively tackle the bigoted online world of supporters who may have emboldened Gendron into the killings.

"I would not call that justice," Whitfield said of the possibility of a criminal conviction in isolation.

In their filing Thursday, federal prosecutors said they have provided more evidence to the defense in the case against Gendron than required by law "to ensure that there is not undue delay in the processing of this case, to demonstrate the strength of the evidence against the defendant, and to enable the defense team to have meaningful conversations with the defendant about how to defend against the charges against him."

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Prosecutors object to sharing evidence in Buffalo mass shooting case
Protesters, mostly made up of those on the Wauwatosa Police Department's "target list," gathered in Hart Park and marched through Wauwatosa on May 7 to speak out against a jury's verdict reached last week that decided protesters' privacy rights weren't violated by the WPD during protests in the city in 2020.

"If this (verdict) didn't reignite a fire in you, I don't know what will," said Mariah Smith, an organizer with The Peoples Revolution. An attorney representing the group said she will appeal the ruling.

Last week, the federal case in which 57 plaintiffs claimed that their rights under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act were violated, went to trial. Amid the protests, WPD's crime analyst Dominick Ratkowski publicly shared the plaintiffs' personal information in a self-described "target list," and Lt. Joseph Roy emailed out hours of protest footage and unredacted documents linked to the marches via a Dropbox link.

To establish a DPPA violation, it must be proven that the defendants obtained, disclosed or used personal information from a motor vehicle record for a purpose that isn't permitted. During the trial, the defendants testified that both were created with data that is accessible to the WPD, and that sharing it is common practice among law enforcement.

As people dined outside in Tosa Village, protesters, mainly comprised of people listed on the Wauwatosa Police Department's "target list," urged onlookers to be aware of the list's violation of privacy and its implications. Some protesters' signs also spoke out against a bill that would force police officers back in Milwaukee Public Schools.

After the week-long trial, the jury on May 5 found that DPPA rights were not violated.

The lawsuit was part of a legal battle that ensued after Wauwatosa's frequent 2020 protests sparked by police killings, including former Wauwatosa Police Officer Joseph Mensah's fatal shooting of 17-year-old Alvin Cole.

Protesters say their privacy rights were violated by 'target list'

Ratkowski created the list, which included names, addresses, vehicle information and photos of officials, activists, a Wisconsin Examiner journalist, and more. He testified that someone could be added to the list for attending a protest, a right which is protected under the First Amendment.

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The list was sent to other law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation. When Ratkowski emailed the list to a Milwaukee County detective, he wrote, "feel free to pass it along." Emails presented during the trial showed that Ratkowski also offered the list to other departments that had not requested it which, he said, is common practice.

Listed is what the Driver Privacy Protection Act allows when it comes to sharing personal information. A jury found on May 5 that the Wauwatosa Police Department's target list and Dropbox link did not violate these rules.

Ratkowski testified that he made the list because he wanted to keep track of those involved in and potential witnesses to the unrest during 2020's protests, like the protests inside Mayfair Mall that closed stores and the Cheesecake Factory.

When the list reached the public in 2021, police told the Journal Sentinel it was used as an investigative tool to identify "potential witnesses, victims and suspects who were involved or associated with protesting during 2020."

A protester in Hart Park on May 7 holds a sign that reads, "They have the list, we have the fist," speaking out against the Wauwatosa Police Department's "target list" which included the names of over 200 officials, activists, and more.

Plaintiffs say the information shared made them feel unsafe

During last week's trial, plaintiffs said the public release of information made them feel uneasy and unsafe.

The plaintiffs' attorney, Kimberley Motley, asked Alvin Cole's mother, Tracy Cole, how she felt about both her and her daughters' information being included on the list.

"I feel very scared because I already lost one (child) to police brutality, and I'm scared of losing the others," said Cole. "I felt scared. I'm very afraid."

Plaintiffs also claimed their rights were violated when WPD's Lt. Roy shared a Dropbox link that contained over 500 pages of unredacted documents, including police reports and citations, as well as hours of police footage, including names of informants who were promised anonymity.

Unprompted, Roy shared the link with members of the media, the American Civil Liberties Union, attorneys and more. He testified that he did not know where the information he shared came from, and that such information is regularly shared with outside organizations as open records requests are promptly answered by the WPD.

Jackie Bogenberger is one of the over 200 people who are a part of the "target list" created by Wauwatosa Police Department crime analyst Dominick Ratkowski. Her sign shows where she is on the list that's compiled of officials, activists, a local journalist, attorney and more.

An attorney representing the protesters plans to appeal the ruling

Among the protesters was Motley, who said she intends to file an appeal in the case. There's too much evidence to ignore that privacy was violated, she said.

For example, while private information taken from the Department of Transportation was on the list, Roy testified last week that this was information that the police department already had. The DOT information was only used to verify it, he said.

However, some protesters have said they are not Wauwatosa residents, which, they argue, means WPD would not have had their personal information; thus, police could not verify it with a cross-reference to a DOT database.

Motley did not specify a timeline for the appeal.

Kimberley Motley, the plaintiffs' attorney in the case against the Dropbox link and target list, was also included on the list created by Wauwatosa Police Department crime analyst Dominick Ratkowski.

Quinn Clark can be emailed at QClark@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @Quinn_A_Clark.

More: After a tumultuous year, Wauwatosa's new police chief is still working to restore community trust

More: Mayor is quiet as MPS leaders decry state plan to force 25 police into Milwaukee schools

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wauwatosa protesters' privacy rights lawsuit verdict to be appealed
Qualcomm's longer term bet on the automotive sector as a lucrative customer base for its chips and related communications technology is getting a significant push today: The company announced that it is acquiring Autotalks, a fabless chipmaker out of Israel that builds semiconductor and system-on-a-chip technology to aid in automotive safety; sources tell us Qualcomm is paying between $350 million and $400 million for the startup.

Autotalks' tech is used in sensors that help vehicles (which can be bikes, cars or another form of mobility) and their drivers detect road hazards such as oncoming vehicles in a driver's blind spots; it also communicates with other vehicles using compatible tech to improve responsiveness. Qualcomm said the plan will be to integrate Autotalks' V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communication tech into its mobility-focused Snapdragon Digital Chassis portfolio.

The financial terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed, but a source close to the deal tells us that it's a $350-$400 million deal. We have contacted Qualcomm for a comment and will update as we learn more.

Autotalks, founded in 2009, has raised $110 million, according to data from PitchBook. Its many backers included a number of strategic investors such as Samsung, Hyundai and Toyota, as well as financial backers like Gemini Israel and Magma Venture Partners.

Qualcomm has picked up some interesting momentum in its automotive business to date, with customers including VW, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Honda and Stellantis. In September last year it claimed a $30 billion "design-win pipeline" in automotive -- although that is a longer-term idea more than a solid concept. In more hard numbers, its QCT division (the core CDMA business covering mobile and wireless chips and related tech) saw automotive revenue of $975 million in FY21, and $1.3 billion in FY22.

It's not too much of a surprise to see Qualcomm scooping up a company like Autotalks. In the world of advanced automotive technology, safety has become one of the most important issues, but also one of the most lucrative opportunities, in the building of autonomous and driver-assisted systems. As a primary feature and solution most likely to be used by customers, it also becomes one that carmakers are most likely to invest in when designing newer car models, regardless of larger timelines for fully autonomous systems. So beefing up Qualcomm's capabilities and product range in this area is a logical next step.

We have been investing in V2X research, development and deployment since 2017 and believe that as the automotive market matures, a standalone V2X safety architecture will be needed for enhanced road user safety, as well as smart transportation systems, said Nakul Duggal, senior vice president & GM, automotive, Qualcomm Technologies, in a statement. We share Autotalks decades-long experience and commitment to build V2X technologies and products with a focus on solving real-world road user safety challenges. We look forward to working together to deliver global V2X solutions that will help accelerate time-to-market and enable mass market adoption of this very important safety technology.

It has been our mission to revolutionize safety for the transportation and automotive industry through our V2X solutions, added Hagai Zyss, CEO of Autotalks. We are confident that by combining our knowledge and expertise, we will not only deliver strong V2X products that will enhance transportation efficiency and safety for road users but will accelerate widespread adoption of V2X. We look forward to serving the auto industry together with Qualcomm and to bring the best technologies to market.
Qualcomm has agreed to acquire an Israeli fabless chipmaker called Autotalks, and according to TechCrunch, the deal will cost the company around $350 to $400 million. Autotalks creates chips and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication technologies dedicated towards boosting road safety for both ordinary and driverless vehicles. In its announcement, Qualcomm said that Autotalks' "production-ready, dual mode, standalone safety solutions" will be incorporated into the Snapdragon Digital Chassis, its set of cloud-connected assisted and autonomous driving technologies.

Nakul Duggal, senior VP of automotive for Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., said in a statement: "We have been investing in V2X research, development and deployment since 2017 and believe that as the automotive market matures, a standalone V2X safety architecture will be needed for enhanced road user safety, as well as smart transportation system... We share Autotalks decades-long experience and commitment to build V2X technologies and products with a focus on solving real-world road user safety challenges. We look forward to working together to deliver global V2X solutions that will help accelerate time-to-market and enable mass market adoption of this very important safety technology."

For makers of driverless and driver-assisted vehicles and systems, ensuring people that their technologies are safe is of utmost importance if they want to win them over. They may have to offer safety features that can assuage people's fears in order to get ahead of their rivals, since most people remain apprehensive about self-driving cars.

Qualcomm expects the automotive industry to be one of its biggest sources of growth and revenue over the coming years. At CES last year, it unveiled the Snapdragon Ride Vision platform, which is an "open, scalable and modular" tech automakers can use to build cars. And in late 2022, it said its automotive business pipeline, or its revenue-generating opportunities, had jumped to $30 billion from the $10 billion it announced during its previous earnings report. The company also said back then that it estimates its automotive business revenue to hit $4 billion by fiscal year 2026. It credited the Snapdragon Digital Chassis for the expansion of its future business opportunities, and Autotalks' acquisition could grow its customer base and client offerings even further.
A raccoon dog in Miyagi prefecture, Japan. (Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images)

The raccoon dog did it: That was the explosive takeaway of a genomic analysis conducted in March by a trio of scientists who had scrutinized data from a market in Wuhan, China, where the pandemic was thought to have begun.

Until then, evidence for that conviction had been scant.

This is a really strong indication that animals at the market were infected, virologist Angela Rasmussen told the Atlantic, which was first to report on the raccoon dog study. Theres really no other explanation that makes any sense.

Others similarly felt it was a landmark moment. For months, momentum had been behind a countervailing hypothesis that a laboratory accident, not an animal, had caused the pandemic. The new raccoon dog analysis appeared to rule out that possibility.

The COVID lab leak theory is dead, declared Edward Holmes, one of the researchers involved in the raccoon dog study.

Only his assessment appeared to be premature.

New evidence for market origin

A raccoon dog, or Nyctereutes procyonoides, foraging in a forest. (Getty Images)

In January, a trove of data from the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan appeared on the international database GISAID, seemingly by accident. In this batch were genetic samples from swabs taken in market stalls in early January 2020, before most of the world had even heard of the coronavirus.

An evolutionary biologist in France named Florence Debarre spotted the new data and, according to the Atlantic, notified colleagues around the world. With their enormous collection of genetic material from different species, the GISAID samples were a chronicle of the Huanan market in the earliest days of the pandemic. Here, possibly, in the endless string of genetic sequences, lay hidden the origin story of SARS-CoV-2.

Chinese scientists had already analyzed all the Huanan swabs, surmising that the market may [have] acted as an amplifier of transmission due to the high number of visitors every day. Their study explicitly discounted the possibility that the virus had jumped from an animal to humans.

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Now, working with the raw data, Kristian Andersen, Michael Worobey and Holmes came to an entirely different conclusion. They believed that the pandemic had begun in stall 29, on the southwestern edge of the market.

In that stall sat caged raccoon dogs.

The Strongest Evidence Yet That an Animal Started the Pandemic, said the headline of the Atlantic article that broke the news.

A 3-year debate seemingly settled

Security guards stand in front of the closed Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in the city of Wuhan on Jan. 11, 2020. (Noel Celis/AFP via Getty Images)

From the start, the debate about how the pandemic began was as ferocious as it was inconclusive.

At first, pangolins sold at the Huanan market were thought to have been the intermediate species. Bats, which are susceptible to coronaviruses, were another obvious suspect.

Andersen, Worobey and Holmes were part of a group that had maintained from almost the start of the pandemic that only a market origin made sense, a conviction that detractors thought had an oddly dogmatic quality. And for all their confidence, the proponents of a market origin lacked the one thing that could convince skeptics: evidence.

Another group of virologists maintained that a more likely candidate was the nearby Wuhan Institute of Virology, which was well-known to conduct research on bat coronaviruses  and where, in November 2019, three researchers had come down with a mysterious illness.

Biosecurity at the Wuhan institute was reportedly lax (a common problem in Western laboratories as well), making an accident all too plausible.

To the proponents of this lab leak hypothesis, searching for an intermediate species was futile at best, misdirection at worst. Making their case was difficult, however, with then-President Trump regularly launching vituperative attacks on China, baselessly suggesting that the virus was intentionally created as a bioweapon. Few scientists sought association, however indirect, with the likes of Alex Jones and other figures on the conspiratorial fringe.

Still, proponents of a market origin failed to produce any convincing clues, such as a reservoir of animals in the wild infected with the original, wild type SARS-CoV-2 strain. It seemed less than plausible that only a single animal had been infected with a virus as highly transmissible as SARS-CoV-2.

The raccoon dog study was, as the Atlantic pointed out, the most persuasive argument in favor of a market origin.

That is, if its conclusions held.

A single molecule among millions

A lab technician prepares a solution that will be used to process coronavirus test samples at a molecular diagnostics laboratory in Rockville, Md., in August 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

In 2021, computational virologist Jesse Bloom of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center gained acclaim (and notoriety) by discovering that coronavirus genetic sequences from the early days of the pandemic had been deleted from a National Institutes of Health archive  at the request of Chinese scientists, it would turn out. Those sequences, Bloom noted in a paper, bore unusual similarity to bat coronaviruses.

Unlike some other researchers looking for the pandemics origins, Bloom was not a self-promoter. He did not attack critics on Twitter or make wild, unsupportable claims. He is the most ethical scientist I know. He wants to dig deep and discover the truth, a fellow scientist told Vanity Fair.

The raccoon dog revelation gave Bloom a new project. The data used by the Worobey group had been removed from GISAID, only to materialize there again in more fulsome form in late March. Whereas the raccoon dog group had worked with 227 FASTQ files  the format used to store long strings of genetic code  there were 696 FASTQ files in the Huanan sequences that reappeared on GISAID several weeks later.

Working with the bigger database, Bloom processed an astonishing three terabytes of data from the Huanan Market  genetic sequences from the same swabs taken in early 2020 that Worobey and his collaborators thought pointed to raccoon dogs.

Blooms analysis did not merely look at where coronavirus and animal genetic material commingled but also at how thorough that commingling had been. And while the Worobey group had only examined mammalian DNA, Bloom sifted through every strand of genetic material, regardless of whether it came from a chicken, a human or a cut of beef.

In a paper published in late April, Bloom wrote that the samples that contain abundant material from raccoon dogs and other non-human susceptible species generally contain little or no SARS-CoV-2 reads.

Bloom paid particular attention to sample Q61, which had been collected on Jan. 12, 2020. That day, Chinese investigators had taken 70 samples from the western edge of the market, a hot spot of viral activity, including from the infamous 29th stall that housed raccoon dogs.

Six of those samples had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. And of the six, a single one  Q61  also contained the DNA of raccoon dogs, as well as ducks.

It seemed that the raccoon dog claim originated from Q61. But in his own sequencing, Bloom found that out of 200 million reads, or discrete viral samples, on the swab, only a single one was positive for the coronavirus. Given that the coronavirus was already spreading throughout Wuhan for several months by then, that particle was far more likely deposited by an unsuspecting human than by a sick animal.

In other words, the Chinese researchers who had been the first to study the swabs, and had concluded that humans carried the virus to the market, appeared to have been correct all along.

As for the raccoon dog, it was unquestionably innocent. There is a negative correlation between the abundance of SARS-CoV-2 and mitochondrial material from raccoon dogs, Bloom wrote.

The most viral material came from swabs with DNA from stalls where seafood such as catfish and largemouth bass were sold.

Obviously largemouth bass did not start the pandemic, Bloom told Yahoo News. What these findings suggest is simply that by the time the Huanan market environmental samples were collected, the virus had been spread widely across the market by humans, so colocalization of viral and animal genetic material in samples cannot indicate whether or not any animal was infected.

Worobey, Andersen and Holmes did not respond to a request for comment. Nor did several other researchers listed as co-authors on the raccoon dog paper. Alexander Crits-Christoph of Johns Hopkins was the sole respondent. He sent Yahoo News an insulting email in response to questions raised by the new study.

So what about the raccoon dog?

Two white raccoon dogs in the woods. (Getty Images)

From the start, skeptics maintained that there were scant grounds for the assertion that raccoon dogs were the pandemics intermediate species, if the only evidence for that claim was the presence of viral and animal DNA in the same market stall.

In a crowded marketplace, there were myriad ways for the DNA of different species to end up in the same place, mixed in with genetic traces of the coronavirus.

The raccoon dog team made a big fuss out of what is most likely a contaminated sample, molecular biologist Alina Chan of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard told Yahoo News.

Not only is there no correlation between raccoon dog and virus genetic material, but even the only sample with both raccoon dog and virus was likely cross-contaminated during the sample processing, she said.

In his paper, Bloom argues that his study does not contradict the raccoon dog hypothesis but, rather, merely points out the near impossibility of using the market swabs to reach any meaningful conclusion about viral origins.

A careful analysis of these samples does not prove or disprove any particular scenario for how the virus entered the market, Bloom told Yahoo News, but does suggest that genetic analysis of the samples is not directly informative for answering that question.

The medias role

Then-President Trump at a news conference with members of the coronavirus task force, including Vice President Mike Pence, left, on Feb. 26, 2020. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

From the start, the narrative of how the coronavirus originated was a media story, one shaped in large part by attitudes about Trump. The heated and at times ugly rhetoric he deployed at the start of the pandemic  the new virus was a kung flu, he was fond of saying in the pandemics early days  made it difficult to scrutinize China without fueling what was then a rising tide of animosity toward Asian Americans.

FactCheck.org labeled the notion that the coronavirus originated in a laboratory a baseless conspiracy theory, putting credible questions about a lab leak into the same category as obviously untrue claims that the SARS-CoV-2 virus contained strains of HIV.

But then President Biden took office, promising to more thoroughly and systematically address the pandemic  including the question of how it began. Two months into his presidency, he ordered the intelligence community to examine whether the coronavirus could have emerged from a laboratory experiment gone horribly awry.

Several months later, comedian Jon Stewart appeared on Stephen Colberts late night talk show. As the conversation turned to the pandemic, Stewart joked about how implausible it was that the virus had originated from animals: Maybe a bat flew into the cloaca of a turkey and then it sneezed into my chili and now we all have coronavirus?

Colbert seemed uneasy but Stewart persisted, pointing out that a coronavirus outbreak originating just a few miles away from a laboratory investigating coronaviruses seemed an odd coincidence, at least to him.

Theres been an outbreak of chocolatey goodness near Hershey, Pennsylvania, what do you think happened? I dont know, maybe a steam shovel mated with a cocoa bean, Stewart said with his signature outrage. Or its the f***ing chocolate factory!

Republicans takeover of the House of Representatives the following year all but assured that, even as the pandemic became a background concern for many Americans, its source would remain a topic of intense contention on Capitol Hill  and in the news media.

Chan of the Broad Institute, one of the earliest and most outspoken proponents of a lab leak, told Yahoo News that the raccoon dog controversy was evidence of how badly an authoritative investigation was needed.

The origin of COVID-19 debate has gotten so fierce that there are solid scientists on both sides who will take any chance to say there is new evidence bolstering their preferred hypothesis, she said. A formal commission should be established to bring scientists from both sides to put out a joint analysis of the available evidence. This would help the public to see what the facts are, free from extrapolation and exaggeration.

She and others faulted the media for continuing to favor the market origin  and for not applying sufficient scrutiny to the raccoon dog claim.

Dissenting opinion

The raccoon dog is indigenous to East Asia. (Getty Images)

In his paper, Bloom makes no conclusions about how the pandemic began. If anything, he cautions against doing so. We are unlikely to get conclusive answers about origin of an outbreak that started in Nov 2019 (or earlier) by looking at samples collected in Jan 2020, he wrote on Twitter.

Still, some scientists have challenged his conclusions.

Frederic Bushman, a University of Pennsylvania microbiologist, told the New York Times that Bloom had set overly aggressive thresholds for deeming a sample virus-positive. I dont think the Bloom paper changes my thinking that much, he told the Times.

Christopher Mason, a geneticist at Weill Cornell Medicine, told the Times that Blooms analysis may not have fully accounted for the rapidity with which coronavirus RNA may have degraded in the days or even weeks before researchers came to the Huanan market to swab for samples.

Those criticisms underscore how difficult it is to re-create the path SARS-CoV-2 took from a market stall, or a laboratory cubicle, into the human population.

Whats next?

House Republicans are continuing to investigate the origins of the pandemic, though their hearings have thus far yielded little new insight.

Meanwhile, a new report from the COVID Crisis Group (an independent consortium of 34 experts), Lessons From the COVID War, argues that both theories remain plausible and offer urgent insights for action.

Universal laboratory safety guidelines are badly needed, especially when it comes to the riskiest type of viral research. At the same time, the interactions of animals and humans also deserve greater scrutiny. And when an outbreak does occur, open and honest communication is a must.

In effect, both models of how the coronavirus spread should be treated as plausible, because both scenarios will almost certainly materialize during a future outbreak.
A Texas school seems to have a furmidable problem.

McCallum High School in Austin has been facing a raccoon issue, with the furry omnivores appearing across the campus and one tumbling down through a ceiling during a class, NBC affiliate KXAN reported.

It was scared, it was running around and everything, journalism student Morgan Eye told the station of the raccoon that fell from overhead and landed near a student. What if it bit her? What if it had rabies?

Raccoons are not a new issue for the school, another student said.

There are articles you can find from the 90s, from the early 2000s  and even the 2010s  talking about this, said Noah Braun, a sophomore, who reported in the schools paper last month that three raccoons were captured within an hour.

Braun said a dead raccoon was recently discovered in the schools walls.

It was rotting, Braun said. Its corpse was rotting and it was spreading its smell everywhere

Student Max Davis shared videos and pictures of the raccoons.

There was a raccoon that ran out of a bathroom and when it saw people it ran the other way, Davis said.

The Austin Independent School District addressed the concerns in a statement to KXAN.

We understand that having raccoons on school grounds can be worrying for parents, and we take this matter seriously, the district said.

School district employees and contractors were setting humane traps and performing exclusion work, the district added.

A raccoon.

A raccoon.

The team will safely remove the raccoons from the school grounds and will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the problem is fully resolved, the school district promised.

Though active at night, raccoons that surface during the daytime arent necessarily dangerous unless they exhibit alarming behavior, such as bodily discharge or self-mutilation, according to the Humane Society of the United States. Theyre a carrier of the rabies virus, which makes them a rabies vector species worthy of caution, the society adds.

Related...
Rainn Wilson had a brush with the paranormal at the age of 4.

The Office alum recounted his earlier years living in a "beautiful" but "totally haunted" Victorian abode on the coast of Nicaragua while on Monday's episode of Jennifer Hudson's eponymous talk show, sharing that the spirits had an affinity for rearranging furniture in the dead of night.

"There was this beautiful Victorian house on top of a hill and it was totally haunted. They were like, 'You cannot move in there. This is a totally haunted house,'" Wilson said. "I was young, I was like 4." Though his own recollection is spotty, his father shared stories about creaking noises, i.e. the sound of furniture moving along the floors, downstairs come night fall.

"This is absolutely a true story, I swear on my life," Wilson said. "And every morning we'd come down and the furniture would all be in different places. My dad had the brilliant idea, he got a piece of chalk, and he went downstairs and he drew a little circle around every leg of furniture and sure enough, the next night... every piece of furniture had moved like three to six inches. So it wasn't like a monkey or something like that."

Rather than run like hell, the Wilson patriarch had a different approach in mind: "My dad got a bunch of his friends together and some people that he met and they just started saying prayers," Wilson recalled. "They started praying to the dead and to the spirits and to God and it never happened again. They prayed it out of there."

Rainn Wilson

Theo Wargo/Getty Images Rainn Wilson

Wilson is no stranger to the world of the paranormal: His horror podcast Radio Rental dives into real life stories that span bizarre crimes and paranormal activity. But the actor is most beloved for his connection to the fictional world of the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company from The Office, which celebrates its 10-year finale anniversary this year.

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"It feels like it was like, three years ago," Wilson said, calling the role of Dwight "the best job I'll ever have."

Watch Wilson's interview with Hudson above.

Sign up for Entertainment Weekly's free daily newsletter to get breaking TV news, exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, interviews with your favorite stars, and more.

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The mass shooting that killed five people in Raleigh in October is among the deadliest active shootings in 2022.

In a report, the FBI tallied 50 active shootings last year that left 100 people dead and 213 injured, the highest total casualties in the last five years.

Raleigh recorded one of the highest number of deaths in the Hedingham mass shooting and had the youngest shooter.

Austin Thompson was 15 when he opened fire in the northeast Raleigh neighborhood killing Nicole Connors, 52; Susan Karnatz, 49; Mary Marshall, 34; James Thompson, 16; and off-duty Raleigh police officer Gabriel Torres, 29.

Marcille Lynn Gardner and Raleigh police officer Casey Clark were also injured in the shooting.

The FBI defines an active shooter as one or more people actively engaging in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area, the report stated.

Twenty-three of the incidents occurred in open spaces, resulting in 29 people killed and 76 injured, including Hedingham. Thirteen incidents met the federal definition for a mass killing incident, which is any shooting in which three or more people are murdered with a gun.

The report doesnt include all types of gun violence and excludes self-defense, gang violence, drug violence, domestic disputes andr hostage situations.

The Hedingham shooting

The shooting began just after 5 p.m. Oct. 13.

Thompson first reportedly killed his brother, James, at their family home near the Neuse River Greenway Trail. He then went on a shooting spree across the trail and neighborhood.

Police believe the victims were killed in this order after James Thompson: Gardner, who was recently released from the hospital; Connors, who was killed with her dog; Torres; Marshall; Karnatz; and Clark.

Thompsons connection to the victims and a motive for the shooting are still unknown. He was a sophomore at Knightdale High School.

Thompson was wounded during an hours-long standoff between the law enforcement officers. He was taken into custody about 9:37 p.m. As of February, officials have not commented on Thompsons physical condition or where he is being held.

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What does the report say?

The FBIs report takes a snapshot of the last five years of active shootingts in the country. Incidents decreased by 18% in 2022 from the previous year. However, the number of incidents increased by 67% compared to 2018.

The most deaths from a single active shooter was on May 24 at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, the report reads. Twenty-one people, 19 of them children, were killed. The second highest number of deaths was in Buffalo, New York at Tops Friendly Markets with 13 people killed.

The highest number of wounded victims was at Central Avenue and Second Street in Highland Park, Illinois, where 48 were shot.

The 50 incidents in 2022 occurred in 25 states and in Washington, D.C., involved 61 firearms, and happened at schools, places of worship, open spaces, and other locations:

1 officer was killed

21 officers were injured

4 shooters wore body armor

9 shooters committed suicide

7 shooters were killed by law enforcement

2 shooters killed by citizens

3 shooters are still at-large

The active shootings took place every day of the week with most happening between February and August. May had the most incidents with nine and also had the deadliest one.

The report further breaks down the active shooter incidents by time of day with 54% of them happening between noon and midnight.

Where did most of the shootings take place?

Six of the active shooter incidents happened in Texas.

Three were in Arizona, Michigan, Florida, and New York.

Behind Hedingham, the second active shooting situation in the state was in Kinston on July 25 when a man opened fire and killed two people at different locations.

Open spaces accounted for the most active shootings while 14 happened in areas of commerce, four in schools, four in residences, two in government buildings, two houses of worship, and one hospital.

Who are the shooters?

Men made up 47 (94%) of the shooters in the 50 incidents while one was female, one was non-binary, and one was unidentified.

They all ranged from ages 15 to 70, the report read.

In 54% of the events, the shooters had no connection to the victims or location.

What was the involvement of law enforcement or citizens?

There were nine incidents when officers engaged with gunfire and in five of them, 16 officers were injured.

In one incident (Tops Friendly Markets) an armed security officer was killed during an exchange with the shooter.

In eight incidents, citizens intervened or confronted the shooter, helping to end the shooting. These incidents included the attack on the LGBTQ+ Club Q in Colorado Springs when unarmed attendees subdued the shooter.
Ryan Donato is a center. An offensive player.

Yet he set a clear message and tone for the Krakens Game 3 win over the Dallas Stars that put Seattle up two games to one in the best-of-seven second round series in the Stanley Cup playoffs Sunday night.

He flew around the Climate Pledge Arena ice hitting Stars like a football linebacker, a defender.

Yanni Gourde, another Kraken center, crunched Dallas Esa Lindell then Wyatt Johnston in the Stars own end. Seattle rookie winger Tye Kartye slammed Dallas Jani Hakanpaa into the boards deep in the corner to the right of the Stars net.

Four of the Krakens first seven hits of Sundays Game 3 were by forwards. Seattle had 15 of the games first 17 hits in all. The Kraken constantly pushed up on and pressured Dallas. They forced Stars turnovers in their own end.

It was, as they say, Kraken hockey, baby: a high-effort, high-pressure, constantly moving and hitting game.

It was the opposite of Game 2 in Dallas three days earlier. Seattle tired. The Stars sped past the more passive Kraken and won 4-2. It wasnt that close.

In Game 3, the hitting  more specifically, the forechecking by Seattles forwards  returned. The Kraken often didnt let the Stars out of their own end. Seattle had its most dominant of 10 playoff games so far. The Kraken steamrolled the Stars 7-2 to take the series lead entering Game 4 back at Climate Pledge Arena Tuesday night (6:50 p.m., ESPN).

Our forecheck has been good in both playoff series, and so far in this one, too, Donato said Tuesday morning, after a way-light, very-optional skate at the teams Northgate training center.

Its very important. They are a fast team that can break out very easily. If you let the puck get into the forwards hands that are flying, they make you pay for it.

Creating turnovers and forcing it down there, keeping it down there (in Dallas own zone) is definitely a priority of ours.

It takes energy, and thus rest, to play the way the Kraken want to.

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So Seattle uses its depth its had all season  that the remainder of the NHL is now noticing as decisive  to maximize advantages. Swarms of four relatively fresh lines of players seek to create turnovers and minimize the time the Kraken spend in their own defensive zone. The idea is to pressure constantly up the ice, in the Stars end, to minimize the time the Krakens defense and goaltender Philip Grubauer have to repel Dallas dangerous offense.

Defensemen are known as the hitters, the enforcers, the tone-setters in hockey. Yet the 12 Seattle forwards that played in Game 3 combined for 20 of the Krakens 29 hits. Most of those 20 hits were far up the ice and in the Stars end.

By comparison, Dallas 12 forwards combined for just nine hits Sunday.

When Seattle is at its best  which is right now, two wins from the Western Conference finals  its not so much who scores the goals but who is forechecking, hitting, forcing the opponent to lose the puck.

Its who is doing the dirty work to keep the puck in the other teams end, not the Krakens.

Sunday, it was everybody. And it was a win.

I dont think the way we play is necessarily going to change, Donato said. Weve got to work hard on the forecheck. Weve got to create turnovers.

Weve got to grind them down.

How the Kraken rest

The Krakens challenge is to maintain this high-effort, rugged style night in and night out, during the most grueling postseason in sports.

Every Stanley Cup playoffs round is a seven-game series. The Kraken being way up and out in the upper left corner of North America makes their travel longer and more sapping. The first-round series they won in seven games ousting defending Cup champion Colorado, the Kraken had only one day off between each game.

That pattern continued into round two at Dallas.

Then, like rain onto a parched desert, a gift.

A concert. And, thus, a day off.

Gracias, Rauw.

Latin Grammy Award-winning Puerto Rican musical singer and songwriter Rauw Alejandro already had a packed concert scheduled for this past Saturday night at Climate Pledge Arena. That was a reason the NHL broke the Krakens game-day off-game cycle. The league gave the Seattle-Dallas series a second day off between Game 2 Thursday and Game 3 Sunday.

The Kraken seized advantage of their first two-day break between games since the end of the regular season last month. They played their fastest, most physical and dominant game of their postseason.

Jordan Eberle said he played at home with his kids and family Saturday. He scored Sunday, for the third time in three games.

Soucy said he went to the dog park. He scored the first playoff goal of his five-year NHL career Sunday.

Its big. Just the draining of a seven-game series, playing every other day, it can wear on you, even though you dont feel it it gets to you, Soucy said.

Yeah, it was huge. Obviously, the guys looked fresh.

So loud at the final horn the players couldnt hear it. So the ferry horn blows. Kraken 7, Stars 2, Seattle leads Dallas 2-1 in the best of 7 Stanley Cup playoff series.



Game 4 in this House of Noise Tuesday @thenewstribune pic.twitter.com/AS29ZJ0j2P  Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) May 8, 2023

Can the Kraken do it again, but back on only one days rest for Game 4 Tuesday and Game 5 in Dallas Thursday after more travel? Games 6 and 7, if necessary, will also be after one day off and travel.

Rauw Alejandro has moved on. There are no concerts on the immediate horizon to create more days off.

So coach Dave Hakstol is not practicing his team. Its a lighter touch, like Pete Carroll does with the Seattle Seahawks during pounding NFL seasons.

Carrol was in the tunnel high-fiving the Kraken players on their way from the ice to the locker room immediately following their Game 3 win Sunday.

Only a handful of Kraken skaters plus Grubauer and backup goalie Martin Jones were on the ice during Seattles optional skate Monday morning at the Kraken Community Iceplex.

We havent tapered it a lot. ...Some teams Ive had our best to practice the day before and not morning skate, Hakstol, who coached the Philadelphia Flyers from 2015-19, said Monday. Other teams, this one in particular, weve been in a pretty good rhythm. Typically, we havent practiced a day before a game. We get our work done in our morning skate. We have our meetings.

And then energy is really premium for us as we get into game night.

Hakstol pointed to Game 2 last Thursday in Dallas. It came after Seattle won Game 7 on Sunday at the end of seven games with only one day off  then had only one day off from closing out the Avalanche to winning Game 1 in Dallas last Tuesday.

You saw us when Dallas raised the temperature in Game 2 and we showed a little bit of fatigue. Thats not a very good formula for us, Hakstol said.

So rest is very important for us, especially as you go through the intensity of games and the follow-on of games that we are in right now in the playoffs.

His Kraken players appreciate their coachs ways.

Coach has done a good job preparing us every night. We havent practiced much, said 32-year-old defenseman Justin Schultz, who has played in 77 career playoff games and won two Stanley Cups, with Pittsburgh in the 2015-16 and 16-17 seasons. Its tougher out West. You are traveling a lot. You need rest, especially this time of year.

So we are sticking with that plan. ...This time of year you dont really need practice. Its more about just being ready and rested, and good to go.

Seattle Kraken right wing Jordan Eberle (7) reacts after scoring against the Dallas Stars as teammate Justin Schultz (4) looks on during the second period of Game 3 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup second-round playoff series Sunday, May 7, 2023, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

McCann skating, but...

Jared McCann skated Monday morning wearing a normal (that is, not wearing a no-contact) jersey. He did that Sunday morning, too, before Game 3.

Hakstol is holding out hope the Krakens scoring leader from the regular season can return from his unspecified injury to play in this series against Dallas.

McCann hasnt played since April 24 when Coloardos Cale Makar smashed him into the boards and glass with a late hit after a shot went out of play early in Game 4 of Seattles first-round series.

Seattle Kraken left wing Jared McCann (19) lies on the ice after being injured by Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) during the first period of a first round 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs game against the Colorado Avalanches at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle on Monday, April 24, 2023.

Theres no change in status. ...Nothings imminent, towards McCann playing, Hakstol said.

Hes a huge part of our team. We want to get him back as soon as we can. Hopefully that will be some time this series. But until were able to have him back everybody else has to step up.

Thats included Beniers. The rookie center has taken McCanns place as one of Seattles four primary penalty killers.

So far, so good for the Kraken there. Dallas is just 1 for 8 (12.5%) on the power play in the series. The Stars had the NHLs fifth-best power play during the regular season, converting 25% of man advantages by penalties into goals.

Daniel Sprong injured

Hakstol said he had no update Monday on the injury that forced Kraken winger Daniel Sprong to leave Game 3 after playing only 6 1/2 minutes.

Sprong has a goal and an assist playing in all 10 playoff games.
"Goodfellas" actor Ray Liotta died at age 67 in the Dominican Republic last year. (Greg Allen / Invision / Associated Press)

Ray Liotta died last year of heart and respiratory system issues, according to a report citing his death documents.

The actor, who was best known for playing Henry Hill in Martin Scorsese's "Goodfellas," died on May 26, 2022, in his sleep in the Dominican Republic, where he was filming the movie "Dangerous Waters." He was 67. According to documents obtained by TMZ on Monday, the actor died of natural causes. He reportedly suffered from respiratory insufficiency, pulmonary edema  a buildup of fluid in his lungs  and acute heart failure, TMZ reported.

Liotta also suffered from atherosclerosis, which the Mayo Clinic defines as "the buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in and on the artery walls." Atherosclerosis can lead to a blood clot.

At the time of his death, spokeswoman Jennifer Allen told The Times that no health issues or foul play were suspected. Allen did not immediately respond to The Times' request for confirmation Monday.

Liotta's career spanned several decades and genres. He was also known for "Field of Dreams," Something Wild, Corrina, Corrina, Operation Dumbo Drop, Narc and Charlie St. Cloud.

The actor was also an Emmy winner, nabbing a guest role prize for his work as Charlie Metcalf on NBC's "ER."

Following his death, Liotta was most recently seen in Elizabeth Banks' dark comedy "Cocaine Bear" and will star in Charlie Day's directorial debut, "Fool's Paradise," which releases May 12.

In February, Liotta was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Banks and Liotta's "Black Bird" co-star Taron Egerton paid tribute.

"I'm very grateful Ray Liotta blessed my life because I will carry the confidence he gave me, forever," Banks said.

Liotta is survived by his fiancee, Jacy Nittolo, and daughter Karsen.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
People watch the Chinese tea art performance during an event entitled "Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon" held in Athens, Greece, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

A tea cultural event was held in Athens on Saturday, enabling Greek guests to learn about the different varieties of tea and tea-making techniques and the concept of Yaji.



The event included a traditional tea ceremony, an exhibition on the history of tea and its role in people's lives in China, and other activities like music, dances and calligraphy.

The event, entitled "Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon," was organized by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism with the support of the Chinese Embassy in Greece and the Hellenic Foundation for Culture (HFC).

Yaji in Chinese means "gathering all that is elegant," said Wang Ying, cultural counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Athens. Ancient Chinese, in particular elites, enjoyed tea with music, calligraphy, and other cultural activities, she explained.

"Tea not only contains the traditional philosophy of China, that is, harmony between human beings and nature, but also serves as an important bridge between China and the world," Wang said.

The event was held on the occasion of the upcoming International Tea Day on May 21. In November 2022, the traditional Chinese tea processing techniques and associated social practice in China was listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

"The mutual learning between the two civilizations of China and Greece, two (representatives of) ancient civilizations, is an effective way to develop together," said Ren Ren, director of the China Cultural Center in Athens.

Michalis Maniatis, a Greek artist who has traveled between Greece and China for the past two decades, told Xinhua that his home is full of tea he enjoys with his Chinese friends who have become part of his family. He loves tea for its taste, symbolism, elegance, and connection.

"Tea is a bridge between people. And I hope everybody in the West can find a way to understand that and realize that through this friendly ceremony, we can know each other and be friends forever," he said.
Rema and Selena Gomezs Calm Down ascends to No. 1 on Billboards Pop Airplay chart (dated May 13).

The song, released on Jonzing World/Mavin/SMG Music/Virgin/Interscope Records, marks Remas first leader on the list. Gomez adds her fourth Pop Airplay No. 1, following three, tallied consecutively, in 2015-16: Hands to Myself (for one week in April 2016), Same Old Love (two weeks, January 2016) and Good for You, featuring A$AP Rocky (two, September-October 2015).

More from Billboard

Related

REMA

Why Rema Didnt Aim For Perfection With 'Calm Down' 05/08/2023 05/08/2023

Calm Down claims a second week atop the Rhythmic Airplay chart, after it became each artists first No. 1. It also jumps 24-16 on Adult Pop Airplay and rises 35-34 on Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay.

Rema, from Nigeria, released the original version of Calm Down in February 2022 as a single from his debut solo LP, Rave & Roses. Its remix with Gomez arrived last August, and that versions official video premiered in September.

Calm Down has topped the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart for 35 weeks (through the May 6-dated survey), the longest rule since the ranking began just over a year ago, in partnership with music festival and global brand Afro Nation. It becomes the first song to have led both lists.

Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs No. 1s  Pop Airplay Peaks:

Calm Down, Rema & Selena Gomez  No. 1 (one week, to-date)

Love Nwantiti (Ah Ah Ah), CKay  No. 20

Essence, Wizkid feat. Justin Bieber & Tems  No. 21

Peru, Fireboy DML & Ed Sheeran  No. 22

Last Last, Burna Boy  did not chart

Free Mind, Tems  did not chart

I think the magic behind this track lies in the combination of the fresh sounding Afrobeat, paired with the familiarity of Selena Gomez, says Matt Mony, program director of Pop Airplay reporter WYOY Jackson, Miss., which has played Calm Down more than 1,100 times, dating to its first spin in August 2022, according to Mediabase, which provides Luminate data for Billboards airplay charts. I think with the strategy of bringing a familiar voice to an unfamiliar sound, records like this have huge potential in reaching a completely new audience.

Story continues

Best of Billboard

Click here to read the full article.
Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is threatening to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt if he does not turn over diplomatic cables related to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

McCaul has been in pursuit of a dissent cable from State Department officials from July 2021, which reportedly expressed grave concerns about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, warning about the fall of the U.S.-backed government.

Now the Texas Republican is threatening to hold Blinken in contempt if the State Department does not hand over the documents, according to a letter obtained by The Associated Press. He gave the department until Thursday to respond.

The reported cable came from a confidential dissent channel that allows State Department officials to communicate views that are contrary to administration policy and issue warnings. The cable reportedly included warnings about the fragility of the government in Kabul in the event of a U.S. withdrawal.

The Biden administration has faced harsh criticism from Republicans over its August 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan, with the Taliban quickly moving into power amid the bloody exit.

McCaul has argued the disclosure of the cable is key to understanding the Biden administrations policies on the withdrawal and why the exit went how it did.

The State Department has refused to turn over the documents to the panel, arguing it needs to maintain the integrity of the confidential channel. The department offered to give lawmakers a briefing on the contents of the cable.

McCaul argued in his letter that the response by the department had been insufficient in complying with the panels subpoena.

Should you fail to comply, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding, he wrote.

A State Department spokesperson told The Hill the latest action from the committee was unnecessary and unproductive.

Story continues

Its unfortunate that despite having received a classified briefing on the dissent channel cable as well as a written summary that the House Foreign Affairs Committee continues to pursue this unnecessary and unproductive action, the spokesperson said. Nevertheless, we will continue to respond to appropriate oversight inquiries and provide Congress the information it needs to do its job while protecting the ability of State Department employees to do theirs.

Updated at 12:29 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. AP Photo/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades

Republicans are looking to nudge Joe Manchin out of a Senate reelection bid in 2024.

A McConnell-aligned group is spending $2 million in an ad campaign against Manchin, per Politico.

Still, Republican leaders aren't dismissing Manchin, as he has withstood the GOP lean of the state.

From the governorship to agriculture commissioner, Republicans occupy state executive offices. In 2020, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito won reelection in a landslide, capturing every county in the state. And the state Senate and state House of Delegates, which had robust Democratic majorities just over a decade ago, now have GOP supermajorities.

In recent years, West Virginia  once a Democratic stronghold  has turned sharply toward the Republican Party.

But Sen. Joe Manchin, a longtime institution in the Mountain State, is the last statewide Democrat still standing, and to many Republicans, he is the only figure from his party who can win in next year's Senate race.

Manchin  a former West Virginia secretary of state and former governor who has served in the Senate since 2010  has indicated that he'll likely wait until the end of the year to announce whether he'll run for reelection in 2024.

However, Republicans have already revved up their efforts to convince Manchin to bow out of the race in their early efforts to flip the Senate next year, recruiting wealthy two-term Gov. Jim Justice to take on the incumbent.

One Nation  a GOP group with ties to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky  has jumpstarted a $2 million ad campaign to attack Manchin's legislative record, according to Politico.

Manchin is a fearsome candidate despite it all.

Still, many Republicans are not discounting Manchin's chances if he decides to run for a full third term in office, citing his record of winning tough races in a state that has moved far from its Democratic roots.

Mark Blankenship, a Republican pollster who conducted work for Justice's reelection campaign in 2020, told Politico that Manchin's success at the ballot box can't be overlooked, despite the heavy GOP lean of the state.

Story continues

"There is a reason that Joe Manchin is basically the last standing Democrat in a state that has had a red tsunami since 2014," he told the outlet. "You can't say that it's impossible for him to win because he's won so much."

And Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, who has served alongside Manchin for over a decade, told Politico that the Democratic senator's chances can't be dismissed, even in a election year where the Republican presidential nominee will almost surely win the state by a hefty margin.

"You can't take Joe for granted," Graham said. "He's a formidable politician."

Easing Manchin out of the race would essentially deliver the seat to the GOP

Republicans looking to oust Manchin from office hope that if he declines to run, they'll be one step closer to retaking the Senate majority that they lost after the dual Georgia Senate runoff elections in January 2021. They're also hoping that a Manchin-free election would allow them to direct money to other key races across the country next year.

But if Manchin does run, Republicans should expect a tenacious campaigner who has shown that he won't be outworked. And Manchin may also benefit from a GOP primary that could potentially become messy; Justice joined a field that includes Rep. Alex Mooney, who is already attacking the governor as a "RINO," or Republican in Name Only.

Patrick Hickey, a former political science professor at West Virginia University, compared Manchin's retail politics to that of former President Bill Clinton.

"He has that Clinton-esque ability to make everybody feel like he's your friend and he's listening to you and he's concerned about you," Hickey told Politico.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Consequences of the night attack of the Russia

It saved their lives, he said.

Debris from the drone smashed away the living room windows and caused a power outage.

Read also: Klitschko says overnight air raid was largest assault on Kyiv by Russia since start of invasion

"The blast was strong. The electricity went out. There was the smell of smoke and I realized that the living room had been destroyed. Luckily, my wife and I were in another room. The furniture was ripped to pieces, a wall is missing.

His parents are still unaware of what has happened to his flat, he added. The man is concerned with their health, as they're elderly people.

Read also: Russia launched 35 drones at Kyiv in three hours overnight, injuries and damage reported

Volodymyr, a resident of another apartment in the damaged building, said that the shock wave from the explosion was so strong that it threw him to another room.

From now on he considers May 8 as his second birthday, he told TSN. He was in the hallway of his apartment at the moment of impact.

The man lives in the apartment alone  his wife and children are abroad.

Thirty-five Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones was detected and shot down in Kyiv's airspace overnight on May 8. Five people were injured in the Russian mass drone attack, with fragments from the shoot-downs falling on residential buildings, streets and the runaway of Kyivs Zhuliany international airport.

Read also: Activist Serhiy Prytula shames Ukrainians who film air defenses at work

The attack on Kyiv lasted over three-and-a-half hours.

The enemy also struck Odesa Oblast with X-22 anti-ship missiles launched with strategic aircraft. A food warehouse, reported to have been full of humanitarian aid from the Ukrainian Red Cross, and a recreational facility on the Black Sea coast were damaged.

Read also: After huge attack, spy chief vows revenge on Russia, warning 'their soldiers will drown in blood'

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
Saying that China posed a threat to Floridians, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed three bills targeting Chinese influence in Floridas schools, universities and agriculture.

During a news conference in Hernando County, DeSantis signed legislation that would ban the use of TikTok and other Chinese apps on school and government servers, limit land purchases by Chinese citizens and prohibit universities from accepting funding from China.

Today, were really recognizing the threat, and were taking action, DeSantis said.

READ MORE: This will hurt: Miamis real estate community fears impact of DeSantis-backed bills

The three measures were passed with bipartisan support by the Republican-controlled Legislature, which ended its annual session on Friday.

The bills also target other nations labeled countries of concern by Florida  Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela and Syria.

SB 258, which takes effect July 1, orders DeSantis administration to create a list of apps created by, or hosted by, countries of concern that should be banned on state and local government-issued devices and servers.

Students, for example, would not be able to access TikTok on their personal devices if theyre on a school or government Wi-Fi network. More than 150 million Americans are regular users of the video-sharing social network.

Earlier this year, the Biden administration banned TikTok on government-issued devices over data-collection concerns.

SB 846, effective July 1, forbids colleges and universities and their staff from accepting gifts or grants, or signing agreements with, colleges based in countries of concern.

The ban includes student and faculty exchange programs and dual-degree programs. The ban could be waived by the university system Board of Governors.

The [Chinese Communist Party] has done a really, really effective job at identifying some of the soft underbelly of American society and really focusing on academic infiltration and influence, DeSantis said.

Story continues

By far the biggest effect on Floridians could come from SB 264, also signed Monday, which limits land purchases by residents of countries of concern.

Residents and companies of countries of concern will be prohibited from owning agricultural land, and any land within 10 miles of a military base or critical infrastructure facility, such as seaports, airports and wastewater treatment plants.

Current owners would have to register the property with the state by Jan. 1 and face $1,000-a-day fines and having the property seized by the state.

We believe protecting our food supply is a security issue, DeSantis said Monday, referring to concerns about foreign actors buying agricultural land.

The bill singles out people and companies from China by forbidding them from owning land anywhere in the state if theyre not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

During the legislative session, hundreds of Chinese Americans and permanent residents, including university professors and business people, protested the measure. They said it would cause people to avoid selling to anyone with a Chinese-sounding name. Under the bill, closing agents could face civil or criminal penalties if they have actual knowledge the sale would violate the law.

During a floor debate on SB 264 last week, the Democratic and Republican co-sponsors claimed the speakers were bused in from Texas and do not have our countrys best interests in mind. Nearly all of the speakers listed a Florida address, and many were easily verifiable through land-purchase records.

Lawmakers later amended the bill to allow an exception to the land-buying restrictions. Anyone, including from China, could buy one property up to two acres if its not within five miles of a military base and the land is in the name of someone with a non-tourist visa.

Lawmakers have justified SB 264 by citing reports of Chinese people buying land around the country and federal charges being filed against two men accused of running an unauthorized Chinese police outpost in New York City.

Many state legislatures are considering similar restrictions.
Seniors in Missouri starting next year would be exempt from paying income taxes on Social Security benefits under a bill headed to Gov. Mike Parsons desk.

Missouri is one of only 12 states that taxes the retirement benefits, according to the AARPs website. Current law taxes residents on their retirement benefits if they make more than $85,000 a year or $100,000 a year for married couples.

The legislation, which passed the House on a resounding vote of 134-2 on Monday, would extend the tax break to all seniors. It also would allow county governments to freeze rate hikes on property taxes for homeowners age 65 and older.

Our seniors need that safety to know that when theyre paying into the system, they should be able to get it on the back end and enjoy a secure retirement, House Speaker Dean Plocher, a St. Louis Republican, said in a rare speech from the floor Monday.

While she voted in favor of the measure, state Rep. Deb Lavender, a Manchester Democrat, raised concerns about the proposals $319 million-per-year cost.

It helps some of our seniors who need that help and it helps all of the rest of them who dont need this at all, Lavender said.
Maurice Robidoux has a clear memory of the last time he saw his older brother Lawrence. He visited us before he went overseas in 1950. We put him on a bus, and I watched that bus until it went out of sight, he said. Maurice was only 4 years old.

Shortly thereafter, then-Corporal Robidoux joined Company B, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. The unit had been in Japan since 1946, part of our Army of Occupation.

When the North Koreans invaded South Korea in June 1950, the troops in Japan were the first U.S. soldiers to enter the fray, landing in mid-July. The United Nations force drove the invaders back across their border and north to the Yalu River, the border with China.

U.S. Army Sgt. Lawrence J. Robidoux, of Cumberland, died in a prisoner of war camp after being captured during the Korean War. His remains were identified in January, more than 70 years after he died.

In November 1950, the Chinese entered the war, launching major attacks everywhere. On Nov. 27, they hit B Company, which was defending Hill 234 about 50 miles south of the Chinese border. The 203-man unit was eventually overwhelmed. Only 26 men returned safely. Robidoux and 77 others were officially listed as Missing in Action (MIA).

It was later confirmed that Robidoux had been captured and died in a North Korean prison camp. For more than 60 years, his family sought to locate his remains. In January, the Army announced that Lawrence Robidoux had been found at last.

Vietnam soldier made a promise to God: He spent the rest of his life living up to it

More: RI soldier identified more than 70 years after he died in a North Korean POW camp

This column tells 'the rest of the story'

R.I. Army National Guard Capt. Michael Csisar visits Lucille Couture, Lawrence Robidouxs 97-year-old sister, at Saint Antoines Residence in North Smithfield on April 23. On behalf of the secretary of the Army, he offered his condolences to the Robidoux family and presented Lucille with several posthumous awards, including the Prisoner of War Medal.

On April 23, R.I. Army National Guard Capt. Michael Csisar helped bring closure to the family. In front of a roomful of family and friends, Csisar presented Sergeant Robidouxs awards and medals to his 97-year-old sister, Lucille Couture, of North Smithfield.

Lucilles son, Larry Couture, served 22 years in the Army, 11 on active duty, including service in Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Larry was named for his uncle, and over the years he spearheaded the family effort to track down Lawrences remains.

Story continues

My family was haunted by what became of him, said niece Holly Tolley, Maurices daughter. Was he dead? Had he been tortured? My Aunt Lucille was constantly checking his status with the Army.

In 1953, 10 repatriated POWs confirmed that Lawrence had been held at Prison Camp 5, North Korea, and died of malnutrition and exposure sometime during the spring of 1951.

Some of them eventually spoke with Aunt Lucille, said Holly. They said my uncle, emaciated and sick, literally dropped dead on a forced march. His fellow servicemen buried him where he fell.

Lawrences father died in 1995, still hoping for closure.

He kept a photo of Lawrence on a credenza for decades, said Holly, although he would never talk about him. The loss of his eldest son was simply too much.

In July 2018, the Army exhumed the remains of 652 Korean War service members from a cemetery in Hawaii. Advances in DNA technology gave hope that some of these soldiers could finally be identified.

Much to their surprise, the family received word in January that his uncle was among those identified.

Larrys brother, Dennis Couture of Burrillville, said, His loss has been a palpable presence in my family for over 70 years. We're deeply grateful that he was identified and we can properly lay him to rest.

Back to the beginning

The Robidoux family in Radville, Saskatchewan, circa 1936. From left, Theresa, Lawrence, Eva Sabourin (Lawrences mother), Lucille, Joseph Telesphore Robidoux (Lawrences father), an unidentified boy and Denise.

Lawrence was born in Radville, Saskatchewan, Canada, on Oct. 31, 1928, the son of Joseph Robidoux and Eva Sabourin. He grew up in a large French-Canadian family. His parents, Quebec natives, moved to Saskatchewan sometime after their 1925 marriage.

In 1923, Josephs older brother Elie went south from Quebec instead, joining Rhode Islands French-Canadian community in Woonsocket.

Lawrences mother, Eva Sabourin, died in childbirth in the summer of 1938 when he was only 10. His baby brother Maurice succumbed two days later. I was only 5 years old when I went to the funeral, recalled Mel Van de Sype, a 90-year-old cousin who still lives in Radville. The mother and baby were casketed together, and it was just the saddest occasion.

Joseph Robidoux remarried in April 1939 to Alice Labbee. This union brought in five new children. Lawrence grew up in a blended family of three full sisters, a stepbrother, three half-brothers and one half-sister, said Holly.

Van de Sype recalls Lawrences artistic skill. Even as a young boy, he was drawing caricatures. Brother Dennis, now 83, said, I would ask him to draw pictures. It didnt matter whether it was a horse or an Army tank, he drew it. I wish I had kept some of them.

So does Maurice, who sat on Lawrences knee while he drew a sketch before boarding that bus in 1950.

More: Remains of Rhode Islander lost in frozen chaos of Korean War battle arrive home

Moving to Rhode Island

Due to the vagaries of agricultural life on the Canadian prairie after World War II, Joseph and his family emigrated to America in 1948. They joined Uncle Elie, who by then was operating the locally notorious Over the Rainbow restaurant and bar in Cumberland.

Sister Lucille remembers that he wanted to become a doctor. Perhaps viewing the G.I. Bill as a path to that goal, he joined the Army in January 1949  well before Lucille came to Rhode Island in December 1950.

Back in Canada, we played war games as kids, Lucille told me. He was the soldier and I was the nurse.

Lawrence was the greatest kid in the world, she reminisced. I always looked at him as my big brother, even though he was two years younger than me.

Due to a backlog at Arlington, no date has been set for Robidouxs funeral. However, the family is pleased he will be laid to rest in our national cemetery.

Cousin Mel successfully added Lawrences name to the Cenotaph in Regina. Canada also has a program for naming lakes near the Arctic Circle for fallen veterans; Mel has submitted an application for Lawrence.

Calendar

Thursday, May 11, 7 p.m.: Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 21 Meeting. Knights of Columbus Dillon Council, 1675 Douglas Ave., North Providence. Please contact Cmdr. Jim Pascetta, (401) 447-7286 with any questions.

Thursday, May 11, 6 a.m.-4 p.m.: Charter Fishing out of Hampton, New Hampshire. This trip is limited to 45 veterans/active duty/Guard and Reserve. All you need is a cooler for your catch/beverages, weather-appropriate clothing and Dramamine if you need it.

To sign up, you need to join The Fallen Outdoors East Coast Community Page on Facebook. Once accepted into the group, you then need to comment on the post for this trip with Tight Lines. This enters you into the drawing for the trip. Questions? Call Justyn Charon at the Rhode Island Vets Center, (401) 739-0167 or Justyn.Charon@va.gov

To report the outcome of a previous activity, or to add a future event to our calendar, please email the details (including a contact name and phone number/email address) to veteranscolumn@providencejournal.com.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: The family of Lawrence Robidoux, Korean War POW, finally has closure
Tim de Waele - Getty Images

Were only three stages into this years Giro dItalia and already the sparks are flying.

Whether Evenepoels dominant opening time trial or Michael Matthews win in seemingly eternal sprint to cap stage three, the Corsa Rosa has thus far failed to disappoint.

The crash that defined Stage 3

The big story, however, came on Sunday, when a late-stage crash gobbled up much of the peloton, including GC hopefuls Tao Geoghegan Hart and Jay Vine.

The crash happened about eight-hundred-meters before the 3km banner, after which, all riders are automatically awarded the same finishing time. Considering, many involved in the crash ended up losing around twenty more seconds to the maglia rosa, which is still firmly on Remco Evenepoels shoulders.

In the end, about thirty riders were able to steer clear of the melee before Italian sprinter Jonathan Milan of team Bahrain Victorious won a bunch sprint in San Salvo.

A short while after the crash, Team DSM tweeted out a video of one of their mechanics rushing a bike to Martijn Tusveld, who was caught up the crash.

Clear and concise info from our coaches, plus a cool head (and speedy legs) from our mechanic Felipe - to get up to @martijntusveld as quickly as possible after  crash at the @giroditalia today. #KeepChallenging #Giro pic.twitter.com/jbIeBchib2  Team DSM (@TeamDSM) May 7, 2023

The video, shot on some sort of body-mounted camera, shows the point of view of the mechanicwho DSM identified as Felipe in their tweetrunning toward the crash with a replacement bike over his shoulder. Eventually, he hops in the saddle, weaving through other support cars, and finding Tusveld, who, despite having some tears in his kit, appeared relatively unscathed.

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The most interesting part of the video, however, is when Felipe lifts Tusvelds wrecked Scott Foil RC from the ground, revealing that the bike sheared completely in half in the wreck.

With the top tube and down tube sliced, the two parts of the bike were held together by their internally routed cables.

Tusvled was the first rider to go down in the crash, as he was sent into a curb beside a hedgerow on the narrow roads righthand side, inciting a domino effect of riders behind him.

Thankfully, his injuries were minor and he started Mondays third stage, finishing toward the back in 156th place.

What's next in the Giro d'Italia

The Giro continues with Tuesdays fourth stage, which will find the peloton riding 175-kilometers from Venosa to Lago Laceno. The stage features three classified climbs and around 3,500 meters of vertical gain.

Going into the stage, prerace favorite Remco Evenepoel of Soudal Quick-Step has control of the maglia rosa, thirty-two seconds to the good of UAE Team Emirates Joao Almeida. Jumbo-Vismas Primoz Roglic sits third, forty-four seconds back from Evenepoel.

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By Nia Williams

(Reuters) - As Canada's oil province Alberta gears up for a May 29 election, some political analysts say the candidates being put forward by right-wing premier Danielle Smith's ruling United Conservative Party (UCP) may deter voters more used to moderate conservative lawmakers.

Polls show the election will be a tight two-horse race between the UCP and Rachel Notley's left-leaning New Democratic Party (NDP).

The result in Canada's energy heartland, and highest-polluting province, will have a huge bearing on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's ambitious climate agenda. Smith has opposed many of Trudeau's climate policies, saying they threaten Alberta's economy, while Notley is more supportive of federal emissions-cutting measures.

The western province is traditionally a conservative stronghold, but Smith has spooked moderate voters in her party with some of her more populist policy ideas and a string of controversies since becoming UCP leader in October.

The government's rightward shift is being reflected in the UCP's slate of candidates for the provincial Legislative Assembly, which looks very different to what the party fielded in the 2019 election, said Lisa Young, a political science professor at the University of Calgary.

A number of candidates are backed by the controversial grassroots organization Take Back Alberta, while some of the UCP's high-profile moderates, including Environment Minister Sonya Savage and Finance Minister Travis Toews, have said they will not run again.

"The UCP lost a couple of what people would consider their star candidates from 2019," Young said. She estimated individual candidates can affect the outcome of a vote by 4 or 5 percentage points, which could be crucial in closely fought seats.

The Take Back Alberta movement was founded by right-wing activist David Parker last year in protest against pandemic-era public health restrictions and aims to get more people involved in politics.

Story continues

"For too long, Alberta's ruling elite have taken advantage of everyday people, thriving on political apathy, censoring those with the courage to speak out, and exploiting the power of big government to restrict our freedoms," the organization says on its website.

Its chief financial officer is Marco van Huigenbos, one of the organizers of the Coutts border blockade during Canada's vaccine mandate protests last year.

Take Back Alberta claims credit for toppling Alberta's previous premier Jason Kenney. It also helped Smith win the leadership race, holds at least half the seats on the UCP board of directors and controls a number of local constituency associations, political analysts said.

Take Back Alberta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Dave Cournoyer, an Alberta political commentator who runs the popular Daveberta website, said between at least eight and 12 UCP candidates out of 87 in total are backed by Take Back Alberta.

"The type of politics that group brings with it is creating a very different type of conservative party than many Albertans are used to," Cournoyer said. "It could deter some moderate conservatives."

Meanwhile, the NDP has tried to field candidates with expertise in business or local politics, particularly in competitive seats in Alberta's corporate oil capital Calgary, instead of more typical left-wing candidates like union shop stewards and environmental activists, according to political commentators.

Lori Williams, a political science professor at Calgary's Mount Royal University, said "the quality of candidates" wouldn't matter for diehard UCP voters. But it will make a difference to "folks that are already concerned about some of the things Smith has said and done."

(Reporting by Nia Williams; Editing by Denny Thomas and Jonathan Oatis)
Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xie Huanchi/Xinhua via Getty Images

Beijing recently passed wide-ranging updates to its anti-espionage laws, worrying foreign investors.

The updated law doesn't clearly define what constitutes China's national security or interests.

The new law follows a recent spate of sanctions, probes, and detentions into foreign firms in China.

Foreign businesses in China have faced numerous challenges like intellectual property protection and geopolitical tensions with the US  but now, operating in the country could get trickier.

On April 26, Beijing passed wide-ranging updates to its anti-espionage laws: it widened the definition of spying and banned any information transfer related to national security, among other changes.

The broadened law takes effect on July 1.

The move is causing concern among foreign businesses because it doesn't clearly define what constitutes China's national security or interests, scholars and analysts told DW and CNN in recent media reports.

Previously, the law focussed on the mishandling of state secrets  which was already an "ambiguously defined term," analysts at political risk consultancy Eurasia Group wrote in an April 28 note seen by Insider.

Even now, the terms relating to national security and interest are still "not explicitly defined," the Eurasia Group wrote.

"It was already very tough. Now, it's going to get even tougher," Alfred Wu, an associate professor at the National University of Singapore's Lee Kwan Yew School of Public Policy, told Insider. Wu attributes the expanded law to China's one-man rule under President Xi Jinping  who tends to "go too far" in addressing concerns, as evident in China's strict COVID-zero policy.

Even the US Chamber of Commerce in Beijing is worried about the impact of the updated law.

"The additional scrutiny of firms providing essential business services dramatically increases the uncertainties and risks of doing business in the People's Republic," the chamber said in an April 28 statement. "This is a matter of serious concern for the investor community and likely is as well for their local business partners in China."

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The law also throws up concerns about "intimidation" tactics towards businesses, Nicholas Burns, the US ambassador to China, said at a May 2 event organized by a Washington DC-based think tank.

"This is a law that potentially could make illegal in China, the kind of mundane activities that a business would have to do to seek due diligence before you agree to a major investment deal, to have full access to economic data to make rational economic decisions," he added.

The updated law is also particularly concerning because of the recent developments surrounding foreign firms in China.

China's recent crackdown on foreign businesses is spurring concerns

In April, Chinese police questioned staff at American consultancy Bain in Shanghai.

Beijing also detained an employee of Astellas Pharma, a Japanese drugmaker for "a spy incident that touches on China's national security," said Wu Jianghao, China's ambassador to Japan, Nikkei reported on April 28. He's the 17th Japanese national to be arrested since 2014 when China passed its counterespionage law, The Japan Times reported on March 28.

In March, Chinese authorities raided the Beijing office of Mintz Group, a New York-based due diligence firm, and detained five local employees for unknown reasons. China's cyberspace administration also launched an investigation into major US chipmaker Micron for cybersecurity risks.

Back in February, China sanctioned American private defense contractors and weapons manufacturers Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Missiles & Defense for supplying arms to Taiwan, which China claims as its territory.

The developments come just as China reopened its economy after three years of COVID-19 restrictions. But they appear at odds with the country's new premier, Li Qiang, welcoming foreign businesses to "invest in China and take root in China," state-owned CCTV reported in March.

"Foreign businesspeople are very concerned," said Wu, who specializes in the political economy of China. "After all, who knows who will be arrested next."

Despite the concerns, Wu said that businesses will weigh the rewards of profits against these new risks.

"Businesses that are eager to make money may implement a 'Made in China for China' strategy," he said. "With the lure of high profits, businesses will still go to China even if it comes with risks."

The Chinese embassy in Washington, DC, did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
As China-made electric vehicles are increasing in popularity overseas, Chinese carmakers are investing in the construction of overseas manufacturing facilities to explore the vast opportunities in markets ranging from Southeast Asia to South America.

SAIC Motor, China's largest carmaker by sales, said last week that it has started construction of a new energy industrial park in Thailand.

The Thai government has recently made it a clear goal to grow the country into a regional hub of EV production, with EVs set to account for 30 percent of local vehicle production by 2030.

SAIC said the park, located in Chonburi province and covering 120,000 square meters, is expected to focus on the localized production of key auto parts for the company's new energy vehicles.

The Phase I construction of the park is estimated to be completed this year, while complete construction of the park will be finished in 2025. SAIC said several major core and key component enterprises have expressed their intentions to settle in the industrial park.

As early as 2013, SAIC teamed up with Charoen Pokphand Group to found SAIC Motor-CP, a joint venture, in its bid to develop the vast market in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

SAIC's MG brand, which entered the Thai market in 2013, has become one of the most popular brands among local Thai customers.

Local Thai media outlet AutoLife reported that six of the top 10 EV models in the first quarter of this year were from Chinese brands, ranging from SAIC and Hozon to BYD and Great Wall Motors.

Combined, Chinese vehicles accounted for nearly 78 percent of the Thai EV market in the first quarter of this year, with the rest of the market shared by models from Tesla and Volvo.

The potential has encouraged BYD, China's largest NEV maker, to build its first overseas NEV plant in the country.

Located in the coastal province of Rayong, the plant, which started construction in March, is scheduled to see vehicles roll out in 2024, with an annual capacity of 150,000 NEVs.

It will serve as a hub for BYD's EV production and sales in Thailand and neighboring member countries of ASEAN.

"This move will not only create more job opportunities and drive economic development in Thailand, but will also promote the deep integration of the new energy vehicle industries in China and Thailand," said Wang Liping, minister-counsellor for economic and commercial affairs at the Chinese embassy in Thailand, in an interview with Xinhua News Agency.

Construction also began in March on Hozon's plant in Thailand, which has a designated annual production capacity of 20,000 vehicles and is due to start operating early next year.

Thailand is not the only destination for Chinese carmakers. China's Wuling said last week that it will increase its investment in Indonesia, as part of a memorandum with the local government on developing the NEV sector in the country.

Wuling also handed over some of its Air evs to the Indonesian government, which will be used at the 42nd ASEAN Summit held in Indonesia from May 9 to 11.

Since the model hit the Indonesian market in August 2022, its deliveries have exceeded 8,600 units, accounting for more than 80 percent of the local NEV market.

Chinese battery maker Gotion, as an important partner of Wuling, has delivered its first battery pack produced in Indonesia for the carmaker.

Zhu Qingyi, an assistant research fellow at the Center for International Knowledge on Development, said the EV market in ASEAN countries is poised for significant growth, as local governments are strengthening policy support for the sector.

She said ASEAN members, such as Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, have set phased targets for EVs and supporting infrastructure.

"Chinese carmakers, charging pile manufacturers, and engineering and power companies should seize this investment opportunity," Zhu said.

Data from the center show the EV market in ASEAN countries was valued at around $500 million in 2021 and is expected to reach about $2.6 billion by 2027. By 2035, sales of EVs in the region are expected to surpass those of gasoline cars.

Great Wall Motors, which has been producing vehicles in Thailand, said it will start operation of its Iracemapolis plant in Brazil in 2024.

The largest SUV and pickup truck maker in China said it will produce a hybrid pickup called Poer and a still undisclosed hybrid SUV in the plant. Great Wall Motors bought the plant from Mercedes-Benz in 2021.

Poer will be the first hybrid pickup to be produced in Brazil, according to the carmaker. The carmaker also expects to export vehicles from Brazil, initially eyeing other Latin American markets.
Robert Kennedy Jr., the long-shot Democratic presidential candidate, has backed a conspiracy theory that the CIA was involved in the killing of his uncle, former President John F. Kennedy, arguing the evidence is overwhelming.

There is overwhelming evidence that the CIA was involved in his murder, Kennedy said in a Sunday interview with John Catsimatidis on New York City radio station WABC 770. I think its beyond a reasonable doubt at this point.

The CIA has repeatedly denied any allegation that it was involved in the death of Kennedy, who was shot while riding in a convertible in a parade in Dallas in 1963.

The assassination has served as the basis for some of historys most well-known conspiracy theories.

While Lee Harvey Oswald was officially identified as the gunman in the attack, conspiracy theories have circulated for years around the assassination, casting doubt on whether there were additional shooters or conspirators connected to the attack.

A House committee assembled to investigate the killing said in a 1979 report that given the scientific evidence, it was probable that at least two gunmen fired at the president. It also concluded that he was likely assassinated as the result of a conspiracy, but could not identify the second gunman or the extent of the conspiracy.

John McCone, CIA director when Kennedy was assassinated, testified to the House committee that Oswald was not a CIA agent and the agency never communicated or associated with him. The commission said his testimony was corroborated by the CIAs file on Oswald.

Kennedy Jr. suggested in his Sunday interview that his uncles killing in November 1963 had to do with his refusal to commit U.S. forces to Vietnam.

When my uncle was president, he was surrounded by a military-industrial complex and intelligence apparatus that was constantly trying to get him to go to war in Laos, Vietnam, etc., Kennedy said. He refused. He said that the job of the American presidency is to keep the nation out of war.

Story continues

During the interview, Kennedy also floated the conspiracy theory that the CIA may have been involved in the killing of his own father, Robert F. Kennedy, a former U.S. attorney general who was fatally shot in Los Angeles when campaigning for president in 1968.

Robert Kennedy Jr. said evidence of CIA involvement in his fathers death is very convincing, but is circumstantial.

We do not have the really strong documentary testimonial evidence that we have with my uncle, Kennedy said.

Kennedy, a prominent anti-vaccine activist, announced last month that he would mount a Democratic primary bid against President Biden in 2024.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Image via Getty

A woman who claims to be the mother of one of Roddy Ricchs sons has filed a child custody lawsuit against the Compton rapper.

According to legal documents obtained by The Blast, Alexandra Kiser is asking a Los Angeles court for full custody of her and Roddys 3-year-old son. In addition, Kiser is requesting $20,000 a month, as she claims Roddy has not compensated her with child support.

(He) is a very successful and highly paid entertainer who goes by the name of Roddy Ricch, the lawsuit states. He has a net worth of approximately $25,000,000. He commands fees of $500,000 for appearances.

Kiser alleges that Roddy has checked out regarding his relationship with his son.

Since his birth, I alone, spend 98% of the time with him while Rodrick lives his life without

any regard to his parental obligation or responsibility to spend time with Kadence, Kiser claims. Rodrick misses important holidays with him including this past holiday season. Instead, he took friends to Dubai and the Maldives on a pleasure trip.

Kiser goes on to accuse Roddy of being gang affiliated, not to mention indulging in promethazine use, all of which are concerns for her and the pairs son. Kiser also asks the court for financial assistance, as Roddy has allegedly not provided her with any.

I am now asking for the courts help by compelling Rodrick to uphold the promise he made to me and to grant financial support from him for myself and our son. For these reasons, I am also asking for sole custody, the complaint reads.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. CHENEY ORR/AFP via Getty Images

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was advised to write 'LIKABLE' on his notepad before a 2018 debate.

An advisor told DeSantis to tone down his aggressiveness in a debate prep video obtained by ABC News.

"You have to write in all caps at the top of the pad, 'LIKABLE,'" the advisor off camera said.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was advised by an aide to find ways to stay "likable" and tone down his aggressiveness while speaking in debates.

Old videos obtained by ABC News and published on Sunday showed DeSantis preparing for his gubernatorial debates in 2018.

"When you walk up there, you have a pad, you have to write in all caps at the top of the pad: 'LIKABLE,'" an advisor sitting off-camera said to DeSantis. The then-congressman gave him a quick nod.

The advisor added: "I do the same thing, because I have the same personality. We're both aggressive."

According to ABC News, the advisor later told DeSantis: "You want to have that likable, dismissive tone, and not condescending."

DeSantis then responded, per ABC News: "Yeah, definitely."

DeSantis took a measured tone during the 2018 debates and also while speaking about disaster relief efforts in Arcadia in October after Hurricane Ian made landfall in South Florida.

However, he has been known to lose his cool at times. In April, DeSantis got into a public back-and-forth with a reporter who challenged him on claims that he witnessed torture while he was a junior officer working at Guantanamo Bay.

"Do you honestly believe that's credible?" DeSantis said to the reporter during a press conference in the Museum of Tolerance in West Jerusalem 0n April 27.

He said that in 2006, he was a "junior officer" and asked the reporter angrily: "Do you honestly think that they would've remembered me?"

Story continues

And in March, Ron DeSantis had a terse exchange with a reporter from The Times of London after failing to answer a question on how his Ukraine policy would differ from President Joe Biden's.

In other parts of the 2018 videos released by ABC News, the governor was seen preparing with Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz. Gaetz asked DeSantis a mock debate question about how DeSantis would handle potential disagreements with then-President Donald Trump.

DeSantis responded by saying that he would have to answer the questions in a way that would not "piss off" Trump's voters.

"I have to frame it in a way that's not going to piss off all of his voters," he said. DeSantis then explained that he would respond to such a question by saying he would do what he thinks is "right" and support Trump's agenda, per ABC's video.

A representative of DeSantis did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Princess Kate and Prince William were in great company Sunday for King Charles III coronation concert at Windsor Castle.

Their two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, appeared to be having a blast while sitting in the royal box to watch the show with 20,000 revelers.

The family cheered along as Nicole Scherzinger took the stage to sing before Katy Perry and Lionel Richie performed for the new king and queen.

PRINCE WILLIAM, KATE MIDDLETON SHARE NEW VIDEO TO CELEBRATE KING CHARLES' CORONATION: WHAT. A. DAY'

Princess Kate and Princess Charlotte watch the coronation concert with Prince George and Prince William.

Prince George, fresh from his duties as a page boy to the newly crowned Queen Camilla, laughed and cheered with his father following one performance.

CORONATION OF KING CHARLES III: THE HISTORIC DAY IN PHOTOS

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Princess Charlotte waved the Union Jack in support of the United Kingdom while seated beside her glamorous mother.

Their youngest son, Prince Louis, seemed to miss the concert after a big day at the coronation on Saturday.

Britain's Princess Charlotte of Wales waves a Union Jack during the coronation concert.

Princess Kate, Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince William attend the king's coronation concert on May 7, 2023, in Windsor, England.

Kate Middleton stayed close to Princess Charlotte's side throughout the show.

The Princess of Wales sported a fiery red Alexander McQueen suit for the royal affair.

She laughed and sang alongside her children before her husband, the Prince of Wales, gave a moving speech to King Charles III the day after he was officially crowned king.

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"Pa, we are all so proud of you," William said. "I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities. I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us, and tonight we celebrate you, too."

"I commit myself to serve you all, king, country and commonwealth," William concluded. "God save the king."

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, wore a fabulous red Alexander McQueen pantsuit for the coronation concert.

King Charles and Prince George are shown during the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London on May 6, 2023.

Prince William praises his father during a speech on stage at the coronation concert.

(from front row L) Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales, Queen Camilla and King Charles III cheer during the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle.

Britain's Queen Camilla (L) and Britain's King Charles III (C) wave Union Jack flags during the coronation concert.

King Charles' coronation was held at London's Westminster Abbey on May 6. Charles and his wife, Queen Camilla, were both crowned during the official ceremony, which was attended by roughly 2,000 people.

Prince Harry and Prince Andrew , the king's brother, were both in attendance despite their tensions with the royal family.

The Duke of Sussex arrived at Westminster Abbey alone as his wife, Meghan Markle, stayed at home in California with their kids, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Russian forces struck Kherson Oblast on the afternoon of 8 May, injuring nine people, including a child and the head of the village of Antonivka.

Source: press service of Kherson Oblast Military Administration; Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, the head of the press service of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, in a comment to Suspilne news outlet, Roman Mrochko, Head of the Kherson City Military Administration on Telegram; Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram, press service of the Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office

Details: A 67-year-old woman and a 42-year-old man were wounded as a result of an attack on Antonivka. They have been taken to hospital. The woman has sustained multiple shrapnel wounds to her head, chest and abdomen. Kherson Oblast Military Administration has reported that doctors are doing everything possible to save her life.

In addition, in the afternoon, the Russian military attacked Stanislav, where four people were injured.

Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, the head of the press service of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, has also said that bombs were dropped on Kizomys. Two houses were destroyed there.

Update at 14:23: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration, reported at 13:43 that six people were injured in Stanislav.

Ukrainian soldiers have taken the five wounded to a hospital un tge settlement of Bilozerka. There, the injured people received medical treatment and were discharged. Among them is a 9-year-old child. The boy sustained mine-blast injuries and a head wound. The child's life is currently not in danger. One wounded person, a 47-year-old woman, was hospitalised in Kherson in moderate condition.

Roman Mrochko, Head of Kherson City Military Administration, has reported that the head of Antonivka district Serhii Ivashchenko and his employee have been wounded in the attack on Antonivka. According to Mrochko, they came under fire near the invincibility centre (a heating point with tea, coffee and Internet access; many of these were set all over Ukraine in autumn 2022, during large-scale Russian missile strikes  ed.).

Story continues

The victims have sustained injuries of varying severity and are currently in hospital, where they are being provided with all the necessary assistance. The employee's condition is extremely serious.

Update at 16:10: The Kherson Oblast Prosecutor's Office reported nine people injured, particularly three in a Russian attack on the settlements in the Kherson and Beryslav districts and six in an airstrike on the Stanislav hromada [an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.], where a Russian projectile hit the village council building.

Private houses, outbuildings, a gas pipeline and power lines have been damaged in the Stanislav hromada.

Roman Mrochko, Head of the Kherson City Military Administration, posted a video showing the site of the strike in Antonivka.

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Russia's Victory Day practice in St. Petersburg Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Victory Day, celebrated May 9 to commemorate the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany, is Russia's most important military holiday, typically used to showcase the country's military might and hardware. This year, "six Russian regions, occupied Crimea, and 21 cities" have canceled this Victory Day parades citing "security concerns," Britain's Ministry of Defense reports. "Moscow's Victory Day celebration is likely to go ahead but on a smaller scale. Russian President Vladimir Putin's reception following the parade (last held in 2019) will not go ahead."

The Kremlin "likely hopes to limit typical May 9 events to conceal the degradation of the Russian military," the Institute for the Study of War think tank suggests. Much of the advanced military equipment usually paraded through Red Square "is either critical to Russian operations in Ukraine or has been destroyed in 14 months of attritional fighting."

The "mounting anxiety following a series of attacks and over a looming Ukrainian counteroffensive" is also clouding Victory Day celebrations, The New York Times adds. Last week's drone explosion over the Kremlin "was one of several apparent attacks within Russia that have amplified jitters in the country," including a weekend car bombing outside Moscow that "seriously wounded a prominent Russian nationalist and novelist and killed his driver."

Ukraine's use of a U.S. Patriot air defense system to successfully intercept a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile, one of Russia's most sophisticated weapons, "has likely caused a severe amount of uncertainty for Russia" as well, CNN reports, citing a U.S. source. Putin lauded the Kinzhal in 2018 as "invincible against all existing and prospective missile defense and counter-air defense systems."

On the other side, Russia is making a final push to conquer all of Bakhmut ahead of Victory Day, to finally claim a win, and "our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky wrote on Telegram late Sunday.

Story continues

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Monday he will ask Ukraine's parliament to approve changing Ukraine's celebration of Victory Day to May 8, when "most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," not May 9. "We will not allow the joint victory of the nations of the anti-Hitler coalition to be appropriated," he added, comparing Russia's invasion of Ukraine, with its risible goal of "de-Nazifying" Ukraine, to Nazi Germany's invasion in World War II.

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Russia buys goods from Germany to circumvent sanctions

Read also: Russia can finance war in Ukraine for another year despite sanctions

Bild reports that exports of certain categories of goods from Germany to CIS countries have at least doubled since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Data from Germanys Federal Statistical Office supports this claim. David O'Sullivan, EU's special representative on sanctions, has also noted that Germany is increasingly supplying goods to CIS countries.

The supply of German goods to Tajikistan increased by 150% in 2022, to Belarus by 77%, and to Kyrgyzstan  by a staggering 994%.

According to the German Eastern Business Association, car and auto parts exports from Germany to Kazakhstan increased by 507%; to Armenia  by 761% in 2022.

Read also: Swipe left. Tinder dating service to leave Russia for good

The exports of chemical products to Kazakhstan increased by 129%, Armenia by 110%. Electrical equipment exports increased by 344% to Armenia and by 105%  to Uzbekistan.

Read also: Tucker Carlsons canning is good news for Ukraine  and a blow to the Kremlins propaganda

The supply of metal goods to Kazakhstan increased by 137% and clothing  by 88%.

The German government believes that these goods may ultimately be supplied to Russia, circumventing existing sanctions through so-called parallel imports.

Read also: Turkey finally stops transit of sanctioned goods to Russia

Recent media reports suggested that the United States, Europe, and other key allies of Ukraine plan on imposing new sanctions against Russia to increase pressure on the Russian economy.

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Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko stands in front of an apartment building damaged by a drone that was shot down during a Russian overnight strike, amid Russias attack, in Kyiv, Ukraine, Monday, May 8, 2023. | Andrew Kravchenko, Associated Press

In an air raid against Ukraine on Monday, Russia used drones, mortars, surface-to-air missiles, tanks, rocket launchers and warplanes to target more than 100 different locations in the north, east and south of the country, reported The Associated Press.

The total amount of damage done by the airstrikes is still uncertain at this time.

Heres what we know so far:

At least 35 drones  a little more than half of the 60 total drones launched early Monday  targeted the capital city of Kyiv and injured five people, per AP.

Kyivs mayor, Vitali Klitschko, told Reuters that Ukraine had successfully shot down all the drones that were a part of the attack. Still, debris hit the capital, damaging apartments and other buildings, he said. One of the airports was also hit by drone wreckage causing damage but no fire or injuries were reported.

Elsewhere in the country in Odesa  close to the Black Sea  a food warehouse was set on fire by eight Russian missiles, reported the Guardian. Three people were injured, but no casualties were reported, per Reuters.

In the south of Ukraine, eight were wounded by the airstrikes in Kherson, including a nine-year-old boy, reported France 24. Two more injured were reported on the outskirts of the city in Antonivka.

Six more civilians in Stanislav were wounded, per France 24.

Launched missiles were directed at the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk during the night, where they struck the citys industrial zone and resulted in no casualties, per AP News.

The attack comes the day before Russias large secular holiday on May 9 called Victory Day, which celebrates the defeat of Nazism in Europe  the rest of Europe celebrates the victory on May 8.

Related
By Guy Faulconbridge

MOSCOW (Reuters) -President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Russians were united in a "sacred" fight with the West over Ukraine but the strains of war were evident at one of the most pared back anniversaries of the victory over Nazi Germany in decades.

Putin has repeatedly likened the war in Ukraine - which he casts as a defensive move against a West which wants to carve up Russia - to the challenge Moscow faced when Adolf Hitler invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.

"The decisive battles for the fate of our Motherland have always become patriotic, all-national and sacred," the 70-year-old president told veterans and soldiers assembled on Red Square for the annual Victory Day parade.

"A real war has again been unleashed against our homeland," he said.

Putin hailed Russian forces in Ukraine as heroes who were fighting for the country's future against a West which, he said, had forgotten the decisive role played by the Soviet Union in defeating Nazi Germany.

"The whole country rallied to support our heroes. Everyone is ready to help, praying for you," he said of those taking part in what the Kremlin calls a "special military operation".

Putin cheered for "Russia, for our valiant Armed Forces, for victory!"

Cheers rang out across Red Square, with a gun salute and the Russian national anthem, though with a much curtailed show of military hardware - and no aviation. A single tank took part - a T-34, a type used in World War Two.

The Soviet Union lost 27 million people in World War Two, including many millions in Ukraine, but eventually pushed Nazi forces back to Berlin, where Hitler committed suicide and the red Soviet Victory Banner was raised over the Reichstag in 1945.

Kyiv and its allies accuse Putin of waging an unprovoked war of aggression in Ukraine to seize land. They deny Putin's claim that the expansion of the NATO alliance to Russia's borders poses a threat to its security or justifies Moscow's invasion.

Story continues

As many as 354,000 Russian and Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or injured in the Ukraine war, which is now in its 15th month and could well grind on well beyond 2023, according to a trove of purported U.S. intelligence documents posted online.

VICTORY DAY

Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender came into force at 11:01 p.m. on May 8, 1945, marked as "Victory in Europe Day" by France, Britain and the United States. In Moscow it was already May 9, which became the Soviet Union's "Victory Day" in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War of 1941-45.

The way the Soviet Union and then Russia mark victory over Nazi Germany has changed over the years: the first was ordered by Soviet leader Josef Stalin in June 1945 but May 9 was a normal working day between 1947 and 1965, when Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev ordered a 20th anniversary parade.

Russia's first elected president, Boris Yeltsin, made Victory Day parades an annual event from 1995 onwards. Under Putin, they became a muscular display not only of marching battalions but also of Russia's latest weaponry, including warplanes, tanks, and nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles.

This anniversary falls less than a week after Russia accused Ukraine of attacking the Kremlin citadel with two drones in an attempt to kill Putin. Kyiv has denied any involvement.

In his speech, Putin said "Western globalist elites" were sowing Russophobia, while the Ukrainian people had become "hostages to a state coup" and to the ambitions of the West.

However Putin also paid tribute to the armies of the United States, Britain and others which had fought the Nazis, and also to China's fight against the Japanese.

Along with the 1812 defeat of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, the crushing of Nazi Germany is Russia's most revered military triumph, though both catastrophic invasions from the west left Russia deeply sensitive about its Western borders.

"We want to see a peaceful, free and stable future," Putin said, adding that memorials to Soviet soldiers were being destroyed in a number of countries.

"We have repulsed international terrorism, we will protect the inhabitants of Donbas (in eastern Ukraine), we will ensure our security," said Putin, who was joined in Red Square by leaders of several ex-Soviet republics.

He did not address the challenges facing Russia as its forces prepare for an expected major counter-offensive by Ukraine, or outline any path to victory.

(Additional reporting by Reuters Television;Writing by Guy Faulconbridge and Mark Trevelyan; editing by Gareth Jones and Philippa Fletcher)
Interception of a drone in the sky in Kyiv

Later in the morning of May 8 the Ukrainian Air Force said it had shot down all 35 of the Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones that were launched overnight at the capital.

Read also: Russia receives new batch of Shahed attack drones from Iran, Humeniuk says

Five people were injured and there was damage to buildings in the west of the capital from falling debris from the shoot-downs. Loud explosions were heard in the western parts of the capital, along with the sounds of anti-aircraft cannons and the buzzing of the kamikaze drones petrol engines.

Popko said the enemy was increasing the frequency of air attacks on Kyiv.

Since the beginning of May alone, in the first eight days of the month, the rashists (Russian fascists) have already carried out four air attacks! During the last air alert, which lasted more than three-and-a-half hours, the aggressor attacked with UAVs.

Read also: Running out of missiles? Russia launches third mass attack on Ukraine this week, with Shahed drones

According to preliminary information, Iranian Shahed barrage munitions targeted the capital from different directions. More than 30 enemy drones were detected and shot down in Kyiv's airspace! We thank our air defense! Once again, our warriors have done a great job!" he said.

Drone fragments fell on residential buildings in Sviatoshynskyi District, shattering windows and damaging a building facade. A car caught fire and several more cars and trucks were damaged in the attack.

The runaway at Kyiv Zhuliany international airport in the west of the capital was also damaged by falling debris. Roads in various parts of Kyiv were damaged, as well.

Fragments from a shoot-down fell on a two-storey building in Shevchenkovskiy District, Kyiv authorities reported overnight. A high-pressure gas pipe was damaged, probably by debris, producing a gas flare. The gas was cut off and the fire was extinguished.

Read also: Russian reconnaissance drone destroyed over Kyiv at night

Story continues

Falling debris also damaged a tank containing about 10 tons of fuel in Solomyanskyi District, causing a leak but no fire.

The air alert sounded in Kyiv at 11.34 p.m. on May 7, and the all-clear was given at 3.09 a.m. on May 8.

Russia also attacked Odesa overnight with Kh-22 anti-ship missiles launched by Tu-22 strategic bombers, hitting a food warehouse and a recreational facility on the Black Sea coast, the Ukrainian militarys South Operational Command reported.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Visitors buy African merchandise during the second China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, capital of central China's Hunan Province, Sept. 28, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]



Central China's Hunan Province registered robust foreign trade growth with African countries in the first three months of the year, with the trading volume reaching 14.47 billion yuan (about 2 billion U.S. dollars), according to the customs of the provincial capital Changsha.

The figure represented a leap of 82.9 percent year on year. Hunan is the long-term host of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo. The third session of the expo, scheduled in June, is expected to further promote the growth of bilateral trade.

In the first quarter, Hunan's exports to Africa reached 11.19 billion yuan, an increase of 131.2 percent year on year, and the imports surged 6.8 percent to hit 3.28 billion yuan.

Private enterprises have played a significant role in driving foreign trade. The exports mainly involved mechanical and electrical products, labor-intensive products and steel while the major import items were metal ore and copper materials.

Hunan's foreign trade with South Africa accounted for 19.1 percent of the province's total trade with Africa in the first quarter, which was 2.77 billion yuan, an increase of 8.3 percent year on year.

The province's trade with Nigeria, Egypt and Djibouti also saw strong growth momentum.
Drone training at an unknown location in Iran

According to Belarusian resistance sources, a work group of Iranian engineers, accompanied by the Russian and Belarusian security services, visited the Homel Radio Plant in south-eastern Belarus. During the visit, they discussed potentially producing combat drones domestically.

Read also: Belarusian battalion recaptures trenches from Russians on Donbas 'road of life'

The message suggests that Russia continues to exert considerable influence over Belarus' defense sector. Manufacturing drones in Belarus could help Moscow solve logistical issues with transporting Shaheds from Iran.

Read also: Running out of missiles? Russia launches third mass attack on Ukraine this week, with Shahed drones

Russia relies on Iranian-made drones for sustained attacks on Ukrainian cities: on May 8, as many as 35 Shahed UAVs were shot down over Kyiv, attempting to strike the capital from several directions.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov's threats to move his troops to Bakhmut from other parts of the frontline could have been a move to blackmail the Russian military command into providing ammunition for Wagner mercenaries. As the Chief of the Russian General Staff Valery Gerasimov is forced to give in to the demands of individual unit commanders, doubts arise about the ability of the Russian Federation to conduct a coordinated defence campaign along the entire front line.

Source: Institute for the Study of War report

Details: According to the report, Kadyrov published a letter on 6 May in which he asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to order Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Rosgvardia chief Viktor Zolotov to authorise the redeployment of Chechen Akhmat units from "other areas" to Wagner's positions in the Bakhmut sector.

It is noted that the withdrawal of Chechen forces from other parts of the front would likely pose a risk to Russian defensive lines that Gerasimov and Shoigu or Putin did not seem to want to take.

The ISW said that Akhmat units had previously been spotted near Bilohorivka on the Svatove-Kreminna fronts and in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and their withdrawal from these positions could undermine Russian defensive efforts in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive.

The institute believes that Shoigu and Gerasimov, who show consistent loyalty to Putin's orders, could have decided to allocate ammunition for Wagner on the Russian president's instructions.

Quote: "Obviously, the successful joint blackmailing efforts of Kadyrov and Prigozhin indicate that Gerasimov does not actually control all Russian troops in Ukraine, despite the fact that he is the nominal commander of the entire theatre of operations. Gerasimov likely tried to take control of all Russian irregulars in the winter of 2023, but failed even before he lost Putin's favour in the spring.

Kadyrov likely supported Wagner's efforts to blackmail Russia's military command in order to restore his position in the Kremlin's power circle. Kadyrov used to hold an influential position in Putin's inner circle until he apparently lost favour, likely because his forces played a limited role in the active hostilities in Ukraine in the fall of 2022 and winter of 2023. Putin humiliated Kadyrov during their meeting on 13 March, where Kadyrov was visibly nervous when reporting on the role of Chechen fighters in Ukraine. Kadyrov likely took Prigozhin's threats to withdraw from Bakhmut as an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of his forces against the backdrop of Gerasimov and Shoigu's inability to win decisive victories during the winter-spring offensive."

Story continues

More details: The ISW believes that Gerasimov's need to negotiate with Prigozhin and Kadyrov indicates problems in the chain of command in the Russian army that will affect its ability to resist the Ukrainian counteroffensive.

Quote: "Gerasimov's need to negotiate with subordinate commanders and the ability of these commanders to put pressure on him indicates that problems in the chain of command significantly affect the ability of the Russian military to conduct coordinated operations throughout the theatre. The position of commander-in-chief should, in principle, allow Gerasimov to command any Russian unit or ground forces commander in Ukraine, even those leading irregular formations such as Wagner and Akhmat.

Prigozhin and Kadyrov appear to be able to make largely independent decisions about their forces, but this phenomenon becomes more pronounced the longer these forces have de facto control over certain sections of the front.

These developments call into question Russia's ability to coordinate a coherent defence campaign across the entire theatre. Russian military commanders appear to be increasingly delegating responsibility for different sections of the frontline in Ukraine to different Russian commanders, while the power of the theatre commander continues to diminish. Gerasimov's diminished ability to control his commanders is likely to further limit the Russian military's ability to conduct coordinated operations spanning multiple areas of responsibility."

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Natalia Humeniuk

Humeniuk noted the successful interception of 35 Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones over Kyiv on the same day, praising "the increased skill of Ukrainian defense forces and the study of the tactics and inner workings of Shahed" drones.

Read also: Russia seeks to manufacture Iranian drones in Belarus, Kyiv says

She added that Russia has a substantial stockpile of Shahed drones, suggesting they will continue to be used to harass Ukraine.

Read also: Russias latest drone air raid deals no damage to energy infrastructure, says Ukrenergo

On the night of May 8, Russia attacked the Ukrainian capital with Iranian-made drones. All 35 drones were shot down by anti-air defenses, although falling debris injured five people and caused some property damage in several districts across Kyiv.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A rescuer puts out a fire after a Russian strike in Odesa Oblast

Ihnat said the cities have experienced the effects of air combat since any air defenses work, in any case, even a 100% result doesnt guarantee safety.

As for Odesa Oblast: there were seven planes, there were up to eight launches of Kh-22 cruise missiles, some of them reached Odesa Oblast, hitting several facilities, he said.

Ihnat noted that the remaining missiles had not reached their targets.

Commenting on the attack on Ukrainian capital Kyiv, Ihnat compared it to enemy attacks at the Christmas holidays.

If we compare with Kyiv Oblast, there were 39 (drones) overnight on Jan. 2, as well as 45 on New Years Eve, he said.

At that time, we also had almost 100% result on these Shahed UAVs. We can draw parallels.

Kyiv air defenses detected and intercepted more than 30 Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones launched at Kyiv by Russia from various directions overnight, the air force said. Five people were injured and there was damage to buildings in the west of the capital from falling debris from the shoot-downs, according to city authorities.

Read also: Russia receives new batch of Shahed attack drones from Iran, Humeniuk says

The runaway at Kyiv Zhuliany international airport in the west of the capital was also damaged by falling debris.

The air raid alert lasted more than three-and-a-half hours.

Russia also attacked Odesa Oblast overnight with Kh-22 anti-ship missiles launched by Tu-22 strategic bombers, hitting a food warehouse and a recreational facility on the Black Sea coast, which caused a fire.

According to the Ukrainian Air Force, 35 out of 35 Shahed suicide drones were shot down over Ukraine overnight on May 8.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The leader of Russias private mercenary Wagner Group on Sunday appeared to reverse his announcement from last week that his forces would pull out of Bakhmut, a frontline Ukrainian city that has been under assault for months.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, released grisly videos last week showing bloodied corpses of his troops and blaming the generals leading the war effort for failing to provide enough ammunition.

On Sunday, Prigozhin released a statement saying the Defense Ministry had promised support to continue the fight.

We have been promised as much ammunition and armament as we need to keep going, he said in an audio statement released on the Telegram messaging app.

The message came two days after the Wagner Group leader ripped into Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Gen. Valery Gerasimov, who is overseeing the Ukraine war for Moscow.

You think that you are the masters of life, and you think that you have a right to master their lives, too, Prigozhin said, pointing to dead soldiers on the ground behind him. If you give us the normal ammunition, there will be five times less bodies here.

The message was seen as possible brinkmanship because Prigozhin has repeatedly criticized the Kremlin military establishment without obvious repercussions  though experts said Prigozhins fury over ammunition shortages was likely legitimate.

Bodies are piling up. Theres not enough ammunition to go around as Russia prepares for a counteroffensive from Ukraine, Anna Arutunyan, a fellow at the Wilson Center, told The Hill last week. Prigozhin is fed up. Hes fed up, and I think hes reflecting a sense of others who are fed up with this.

The Russian infighting comes as Ukraine says it is prepared to launch a long-awaited spring counteroffensive. Neither side made significant advances over the winter, with the worst fighting focused on Bakhmut and surrounding towns.

The White House said last week that Russia has suffered 100,000 casualties since December, including more than 20,000 killed  about half of which were prisoners recruited by Wagner to fight in Bakhmut.

Moscow rejected those U.S. estimates, claiming the numbers were plucked from thin air.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A woman who was seriously injured during the Russian attack on Kherson on 3 May has died in hospital, increasing the death toll of the occupiers' attack to 24 people.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote from Prokudin: "The death toll from the Russian terrorist attack on Kherson has risen to 24...

This morning, the heart of a 54-year-old woman who was seriously injured during the Russian attack on the city on 3 May stopped beating in the hospital."

Details: Oleksandr Prokudin has noted that doctors had been fighting to save the womans life for five days, but the injuries were too severe.

Background:

On 3 May, Russians attacked Kherson and the oblast once again, with 21 killed and 48 wounded reported that day.

On 4 May, it became known that the number of victims had increased to 23. The oblast declared three days of mourning.

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Vladimir Mashkov publicly justified the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine

The SBU said it had collected sufficient evidence to show that Mashkov had called for the destruction of Ukraine as an independent state.

Read also: SBU accuses Poltava judge of working for Moscow

The SBU said Mashkov had repeatedly given speeches at Kremlin mass events, including ones attended by Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, publicly justifying Russian armed aggression.

He also has close ties with Russia's military and top Putin regime officials, the SBU said.

Read also: SBU detains enemy informant who guided in Shahed drone attacks on Odesa

Furthermore, Mashkov used his Telegram channel with a total audience of over 200,000 subscribers to glorify the Russian invasion forces.

"In his numerous interviews and speeches on central Russian channels, he called for the 'accession' of Ukraine's Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhya oblasts to Russia, the SBU message reads.

Mashkov illegally travelled to the temporarily occupied Crimea and eastern Ukraine to participate in propaganda events in support of the aggressive war against our country."

Read also: Ukraine brings charges against Russian blogger Pegov in absentia, Prosecutor General says

The SBU said a notice of suspicion had been issued on Mashkov over the following charges:

encroachment on the territorial integrity and inviolability of Ukraine (Part 2 of Art. 110);

justification, recognition of the legitimacy, denial of the armed Russian aggression against Ukraine, glorification of its participants (part 1 and part 3 of Art. 436-2);

violation of the procedure for entering and leaving the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine (part 1 and part 2 of Art. 332-1).

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, has said that the Ukrainian people made a significant contribution to the victory of the anti-Hitlerite coalition over the Nazism in 1945 and will win the current war over Ruscism.

Source: Budanovs speech on the occasion of the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation

Quote: "On 8 May, we mark the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation. On this day, honouring the feat of the Ukrainian people and their outstanding contribution to the victory of the anti-Hitlerite coalition, we express our respect and gratitude to all those who fought against the Nazism.

Unfortunately, Ukraine is once again the epicentre of the confrontation with the aggressor. Today, we are defending not only ourselves, but the entire world at the cost of our lives.

Having unleashed the war, the Nazis saw their imperial project as the end of Ukrainian history. But they were faced with the unprecedented courage, dedication and professionalism of our heroes on the battlefield, the iron endurance, competence and determination of their commanders, and most importantly, the total and comprehensive resistance of the entire Ukrainian people.

We are standing firm, fighting and living! The victory will be ours!"

Details: Budanov has stated that Ukrainians will take revenge on the Russians for every missile and bomb, for every destroyed house, for the countless victims and suffering of children and mothers, for every crime committed in Ukraine.

"The Russian horde will choke on the blood of its soldiers on our Ukrainian land! Because no army in the world will overcome a nation that has an undying will to live, unbreakable strength of spirit and a powerful, brave army!" said Major General Budanov.

Background:

In March 2015, then-President Petro Poroshenko issued a decree designating 8 May as the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation in Ukraine, but 9 May remained the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II. 8 May was a working day and 9 May remained a public holiday.

On 2 May 2023, after 9 years of Russia's hybrid war against Ukraine and more than a year of full-scale war, the Verkhovna Rada legislatively defined the political regime in Russia as Ruscism and condemned it.

On 8 May 2023, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed that the Verkhovna Rada [Ukrainian Parliament] established 8 May as the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945) in Ukraine, while 9 May should be marked not as Victory Day but as Europe Day.

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Russian strategic aircraft deployed Kh-22 missiles to carry out a missile strike on Odesa Oblast on the night of 78 May, causing several fires.

Source: Operational Command Pivden (South) on Facebook

Quote from Pivden: "Enemy forces deployed strategic aircraft to carry out a missile strike on Odesa Oblast.

The enemy fired Kh-22 missiles on a food businesss warehouse and on a recreational area on the Black Sea coast."

Details: The operational command noted that emergency response services were working to extinguish the fires. There was no information about casualties at the time of the report.

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Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council, has suggested that an "accident" in custody might lead to the deaths of the suspects in the car bomb attack on Russian propagandist and writer Zakhar Prilepin.

Source: Dmitry Medvedev on Telegram

Quote from Medvedev: "Its important that they [the suspects] and those like them realise a simple truth: even those sentenced to life imprisonment (under the moratorium on the death penalty) sometimes have accidents and tragic incidents happen to them.

And then the long sentence is abruptly interrupted by natural causes, due to the prisoners death."

Background:

On 6 May, an Audi car driven by Zakhar Prilepin, a Ukrainophobic writer and member of the political party A Just Russia  For Truth who allegedly participated in Russia's war against Ukraine, exploded in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region. At that time, the media reported that Prilepin was seriously injured.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia announced the arrest of a man who may have been involved in blowing up Prilepin's car. Another man was reportedly wanted.

Subsequently, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation reported that Oleksandr Permiakov, a native of Ukraine, detained on suspicion of attempting to assassinate Prilepin, admitted his guilt.

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You are here: Business

This aerial photo taken on Jan. 5, 2023 shows fishermen working at a marine ranch in Lianjiang County of Fuzhou, southeast China's Fujian Province. [Photo/Xinhua]



China's marine economy has posted a strong recovery momentum in the first quarter amid pro-growth policy support, the Ministry of Natural Resources said.

The country's gross marine product grew 5.1 percent year on year to 2.3 trillion yuan (about 332.78 billion U.S. dollars) in the first three months, accounting for 8.2 percent of GDP, data from the ministry showed.

The output of offshore crude oil and natural gas increased by 3.8 percent and 6.5 percent from a year ago in the first quarter, respectively.

The traditional marine industry has seen steady development in the first three months, supporting the rebound of the marine economy, said Cui Xiaojian, deputy director of the National Marine Data and Information Service.

China's marine economy is expected to sustain the upward momentum in the second quarter, as policy effects will be more visible and industrial transformation and upgrading will pick up pace, Cui added.
By Andrius Sytas

RIGA (Reuters) -In a Stalinist skyscraper which dominates the skyline of Latvia's capital, dozens of elderly Russians wait to take a basic Latvian language test as a proof of loyalty to a country where they have lived for decades.

Clutching red Russian passports, the participants, mostly women, read their notes for last minute revision, fearing they may be expelled from the Baltic country if they fail.

Speaking Russian instead of Latvian has not been a problem until now, but the war in Ukraine changed the picture. Last year's election campaign was dominated by questions of national identity and security concerns.

The government now demands a language test from the 20,000 people who live in the country but took Russian passports after giving up Latvian-issued documents as the loyalty of Russian citizens is a worry, said Dimitrijs Trofimovs, state secretary at the Interior Ministry.

"(If I am deported), I would have nowhere to go, I have lived here for 40 years," said Valentina Sevastjanova, 70, a former English teacher and Riga guide after her final Latvian lesson in a private school in central Riga, ready for when she takes her own exam.

"I took the Russian passport in 2011 to easily visit my sick parents in Belarus. They are gone now."

Sevastjanova was in class of 11 women, aged 62 to 74, taking the three month crash course. Each applied for Russian passports after independent Latvia re-emerged in 1991 from the ashes of the Soviet Union.

It made them eligible for retirement at 55, a pension from Russia, and visa-free travel to Russia and Belarus.

Before Moscow invaded Ukraine last February, tens of thousands of Russian speakers in Latvia used to gather every May 9 around a monument in Riga to commemorate the Soviet victory in World War Two.

Their gatherings were banned after the invasion and the 84-metre structure was crushed on the orders on the government -- which is dominated by ethnic Latvians and which would now prefer to bury the memories of being part of the former Soviet Union.

Story continues

'A SIGNAL'

TV broadcasts from Russia, formerly watched by many, have also been banned, the state language board has proposed renaming a Riga street commemorating Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, and the government has put forward plans to switch all education to Latvian and to swiftly phase out instruction in Russian.

This has left many of Latvia's ethnic Russians, who make up about a quarter of its population of 1.9 million, feeling they may be losing their place in society, where speaking solely Russian has been acceptable for decades.

Russian citizens under 75 who do not pass the test by the end of the year will be given reasonable time to leave, Trofimovs said. If they do not leave, they could face a "forced expulsion". The measure does not apply to all ethnic Russians, only Russian passport holders.

"They voluntary decided to take the citizenship not of Latvia but of another state," he said. "That is a signal. As a result, the politicians decided to give one year to pass the Latvian language exam."

He said the test was needed because Russian authorities justified their invasion of Ukraine by the need to protect Russian nationals abroad.

"I think that learning Latvian is right, but this pressure is wrong," Sevastjanova said.

"People live in a Russian environment. They speak with (only) Russians. Why not? It's a large diaspora", she said. "There are Russian-speaking workplaces. There are Russian newspapers, television, radio. You can converse in Russian in shops and markets - Latvians easily switch to Russian."

To pass, they need to understand basic Latvian phrases and speak in simple sentences, such as "I would like to have a dinner and I would like to choose fish, not meat", said Liene Voronenko, head of Latvia's National Centre of Education, which conducts the exams.

"I love learning languages, and I expected to be learning French in retirement. But now I end up learning Latvian instead. Oh well  why not?" Sevastjanova said.

(Reporting by Andrius Sytas and Janis Laizans, Editing by Krisztina Than and Alison Williams)
Anthony Crider/CC-BY 2.0

The man who police believe killed at least eight people at a mall in Allen, Texas on Saturday afternoon wore a tactical vest with a RWDS patch on it, sources told The Washington Post on Sunday. The acronym, which stands for Right Wing Death Squad, is a popular insignia among white supremacists, neo-Nazis, and paramilitarists.

No motive in the shooting has formally been established by police, but the presence of the patchamong other factorshas reportedly contributed to authorities approaching the mass shooting as a possible hate crime or domestic terrorism incident.

The suspected gunman, identified as a 33-year-old man named Mauricio Garcia, has no prior criminal record. But, according to FBI records obtained by Rolling Stone, his social media accounts contained hundreds of postings and images to include writings with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist rhetoric, including neo-Nazi materials and material espousing the supremacy of the white race. The outlet also reported that Garcia may have had ties to a local neo-Nazi group.

This is Jeremy Bertino, one of the Proud Boys who just pled guilty to seditious conspiracy on January 6. See the patch hes wearing that says RWDS (Right Wing Death Squad)?



The Allen, Texas mass shooter was wearing the same patch. pic.twitter.com/oFSxmKaXIm  No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen (@NoLieWithBTC) May 7, 2023

The RWDS patch has been seen in recent years on the clothing of some members of far-right extremist groups at marches or protests, particularly in the days leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

On Dec. 12, 2020, several members of the Proud Boys, which the SPLC defines as a hate group, wore RWDS hats and patches as they gathered in Washington, D.C.s Freedom Plaza to hear white supremacist Nick Fuentes speak, according to The New Yorker.

Story continues

At another rally several days later, according to the SPLC, more Proud Boys were spotted bearing the acronym on their tactical vests as they burned a Black Lives Matter banner.

In 2021, The Daily Beast reported that an active-duty U.S. Marine who was linked to a private chat group that called itself Right Wing Death Squad was under federal investigation for allegedly plotting to attack the Democratic National Committee with explosives, rocket launchers, and automatic rifles.

The phrase also appears to be part of the bizarre panoply of memes favored by white nationalists and far-right edgelords, with the SLPC reporting that users on the now-defunct subreddit r/The_Donald frequently discussed going full RWDS in violent fantasies involving racial and religious minorities.

As far back as 2018, it was reported that Proud Boys were showing up to rallies wearing RWDS on the sleeves of t-shirts emblazoned with a different far-right meme concerning Chilean dictator and mass-murderer Gen. Augusto Pinochet: Pinochet did nothing wrong. The phrase, according to The Intercept, references and advocates for a program of extermination.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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PARIS (Reuters) - Ryanair is close to signing a major new aircraft order with Boeing, two people familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The multi-billion-dollar deal for a three-digit quantity of 737 MAX jets could be announced as early as Tuesday, they added, asking not to be named.

Boeing and Ryanair declined to comment.

Boeing shares were flat in early afternoon trading.

Europe's largest budget carrier halted negotiations for at least 100 Boeing 737 MAX jets plus as many options in a pricing dispute some 18 months ago.

In March, Chief Executive Michael OLeary said talks had resumed but insisted significant discounts would be needed.

He said Ryanair was now considering the 200-seat 737 MAX 8200 and the 230-seat 737 MAX 10.

In late 2021, O'Leary accused Boeing of trying to impose a "delusionary" price increase and declared a "marital rift" between the Irish carrier and its longtime sole supplier.

Boeing said at the time it valued Ryanair's business but had to exercise discipline.

(Reporting by Tim Hepher, David Shepardson, Valerie Insinna, Padraic Halpin, editing by Silvia Aloisi and Deepa Babington)
Lauren Fagen, then 18, was attacked by two lions (montreal,ctvnews.ca)

A safari park worker mauled by a lion has spoken of the moment the animal tore through her leg like butter.

Lauren Fagen, then 18, was cleaning out the cages of two lions at the Moholoholo rehab centre, South Africa in 2013 when they attacked her and one of them bit her leg.

Duma the lion reached through the bars of his cage and dragged Ms Fagens legs through an open gap.

Ms Fagen, who is from Quebec, Canada, was saved by fellow volunteer and British vet Natalie Bennett, who tried to fight off the lions with a broom.

In a new book called Bite Club, Ms Fagen told author Dougie Wight: Duma stuck his entire leg through the bars, nearly the full length of it because of how far I was away.

Before I could react he got me with the tip of his nail into the middle of my right calf, she continued.

It was like butter, it went right in. I felt a thud - he had pulled me on to my back, I hit the ground and was looking up at the ceiling..

He sliced open my leg. It looked like what you would see at the butcher, like something from a dead cow that would hang from the ceiling. I thought, That cant be my leg because thats not what  wait, it is my leg.

Ms Fagen was attacked by two lions at the safari park she worked at (stock image) (iStock/Getty Images)

Ms Fagen started to scream for help and kicked with her other leg but the lion immediately pulled it through the bars up to the groin.

Dumas female mate Tree then joined in the attack, gnawing at Ms Fagens feet.

The park worker suffered 10 flesh wounds on her legs and feet as a result of the attack.

She described how her left kneecap nearly came completely off and was hanging by a piece of skin.

Looking back at the attack 10 years on, the now 28 year-old said that while she suffered muscle and nerve damage it couldve been a lot worse.
Sallisaw police Capt. John Weber turned his patrol vehicle north on Oak Street to cut off a speeding suspect during a high speed chase Saturday, and then drove into the path of the speeding vehicle and met it head-on.

The video taken from a surveillance camera at the nearby police station, and from the body-worn camera from inside the patrol vehicle shows the collision from the officer's point of view.

Weber has two hands on the steering wheel, a handheld radio tucked under his left thumb too as seen in the video. He is also heard saying, "I'm gonna ram him if they make it this far."

Weber had been positioned near Oak Street where the bounce house was just a block away. There were about 3,000 people at the festival, police estimated. The suspect's car came within 130 yards of the bounce house.

"I'm gonna shut it down," Weber is heard saying on the video as he talks to a dispatcher.

He turns left and accelerates toward the approaching suspect's car. The camera view from inside the patrol car shows an airbag explode when the vehicles collide. Other law officers and emergency crews arrive immediately.

And two days after his patrol vehicle was in a head-on collision that stopped a fleeing motorist from speeding into a festival bounce house, Weber was able to put on his uniform, despite a broken wrist.

In a news conference Monday at the Sallisaw police headquarters, Weber said there had been stop sticks out that had not worked.

"We had given them every opportunity to pull over," Weber said.

Monday, police Monday released body-worn camera footage of the moment Weber, the driver, and McGuirt, passenger, stopped the other vehicle that was reaching a speed of 70 mph a block from the bounce house on Oak Street. Weber turned onto Oak and cut them off.

"We made a decision at that moment that it was too close to our crowd in our community," Weber said. "We did everything we could to allow them to give up and stop the car. However, they didn't comply. So we had to take action."

Story continues

Asked by a reporter what it was like to be in a head-on collision, Weber grinned and replied.

"It was definitely different," Weber said.

The vehicle chase started near Roland

A Sequoyah County sheriff's deputy tried to stop a vehicle near Roland on Interstate 40 Saturday afternoon. The driver fled the traffic stop and reached speeds over 100 mph between Sallisaw and Muldrow Saturday, going the wrong way on I-40 at one point, police said.

More: Sallisaw police captain's vehicle rammed head-on, stops car from hitting festival crowd

Carlten Rucker, 33, of Plantation, Florida, the driver, was arrested on complaints of felony eluding of a police officer causing great bodily harm, aggravated assault on a police officer, and transporting an open bottle of liquor.

The report taken by the sheriff's deputy states a bottle of Cognac was opened and a small bag of green, leafy substance was in the car.

A passenger, 34, in the front seat of the car driven by Rucker, was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital where he was flown by helicopter to a Tulsa hospital.

Courtney Walker, 36, a passenger in the backseat, was arrested in connection with possession of medical marijuana without a license and receiving or possessing stolen property. He refused treatment for injuries at the scene.

In the vehicle was a stolen Arkansas license plate from Fayetteville. A woman's purse and an empty wallet were both found in the vehicle.

This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: Sallisaw police body camera worn by officers in pursuit shows head-on
SAN FRANCISCO  The night Diana Alves de Lima and her husband got into a stand-off with a self-driving car still amuses her.

"It was 10:30 at night and we were coming back from dinner," she said. As they drove up a hill, one of the city's more than 400 driverless cars came downhill toward them.

Like many narrow San Francisco streets, there was only room for one car at a time to drive between the parked cars on either side. Usually, the drivers make eye contact and then someone backs up or into a nearby driveway to let the other pass.

The Cruise autonomous vehicle just kept coming. Her husband got annoyed and inched their car forward. The Cruise stopped, then backed up 2 inches, then stopped again.

It didnt know what to do. It backed up a bit and then started flashing its lights. It was completely confused, she said. The couple finally backed down the street, unable to get the Cruise to move.

Etiquette on tight roadways isn't the only thing self-driving cars are complicating in San Francisco. Blocked garbage trucks, angry firefighters, frustrated police and backed up streets  that's the scene in San Francisco as as many as 400 high-tech self-driving cars roam the streets in a bid to revolutionize the driving experience.

A Waymo self-driving car parked on a street in San Francisco on April 29, 2023. After several minutes in a parking space, the car backed up, pulled out into the street and drove off. There was no one in the car during the entire process.

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The end result could be safer, less congested streets and even potentially lower carbon emissions. Or an endless tangle of bewildered autonomous vehicles spreading mayhem, clogging roads and encouraging more miles driven.

Hence all the testing that's going on right now. The wrinkles of the future we'll be living 10 years from now are being worked out today on the streets of San Francisco, Phoenix, Los Angeles and Austin, Texas. So far at least 50 companies are working on self-driving cars  and more are coming.

Story continues

With expansion plans in the works for both the companies operating in San Francisco, city officials are asking to slam on the brakes to what some worry will be a bumpy road. Others find the cars amusing and perhaps a little safer than the human drivers they encounter.

In the city by the Bay, two companies are operating fleets of driverless cars. Cruise, owned by General Motors, runs the majority of its 240 Chevy Bolt electric cars here, said spokesperson Elizabeth Conway. Waymo, owned by Google, has "a couple hundred" electric Jaguars in the city, said spokeswoman Sandy Karp. Both have pilot programs that offer driverless rides to the public.

In March Cruise applied to test its self-driving cars across the state at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. On May 5, Waymo doubled its service area in Phoenix and increased where it's giving rides in San Francisco.

While free taxi trips in these cars are available to a small number of riders right now, the cars mostly just wander around town on their own, doing an endless series of test drives  to the amusement, annoyance and sometimes anger of local residents.

'Confused' cars, annoyed residents

Living with the influx isn't always easy. In April, a Waymo self-driving car blocked school pickup traffic at Casey Federicos daughters school. A school bus was stuck in the narrow street behind it, forcing kids and families to jump through traffic.

My best guess is the car sensed that they were very close to cars on either side, so it just stopped and didnt know where to go, she said.

Laura Chummers was out on her street when she experienced a comic moment which showed some blind spots of self-driving cars.

A driver pulling into a driveway noticed another car patiently waiting for her to make her move, and she tried to wave them by.

She kept waving and waving more emphatically to give that car permission to go ahead.

Well guess what, that self-driving car had no idea what that waving hand meant and just sat there patiently, Chummers said.

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The radar, video cameras, LiDAR and GPS used by autonomous vehicles are smart, but they still can't make heads or tails of the everyday interactions human drivers use to convey information to those around them, whether it's a friendly wave or a flip of the bird.

Hand signals, nods and other communication between drivers lose their effect when there's nobody behind the wheel, said Chummers.

Sometimes annoying, sometimes dangerous

City first responders have found that whats annoying at school pickup can be dangerous when theres an emergency.

In February, a drug lab exploded in a house in a western neighborhood, killing one woman and severely burning another. Police quickly blocked off the street while firefighters struggled to put out the blaze.

Thats when a Waymo driverless vehicle tootled up the street, slowed but then continued inching closer until it threatened to run over a water hose the firefighters were using.

It doesnt know what to do! a police officer says on his body camera footage. Officers finally lit flares, which seemed to convince the car to stop moving forward.

In January, San Francisco firefighters had to smash in the front window of a Cruise driverless car to get it to stop running over hoses at a three-alarm fire.

On March 21, after wind storms knocked down trees and overhead trolley wires, two Cruise driverless cars drove straight through caution tape the fire department had put up. Only when the car hit one of the low-hanging wires and got caught on its roof did it stop, according to reports published by Mission Local, a San Francisco news site.

Driverless cars may be coming to a town near you.

In 2012 Nevada was the first state to authorize self-driving cars, on a test route in Las Vegas. Florida and California quickly followed suit. Early tests included safety drivers in the front, hands always ready to grab the wheel.

It was a whole new world when the first cars with no one in them started tooling around town in 2021. Since things began to ramp up in 2022, San Francisco public officials are trying to stomp on the brakes.

In California, driverless car permits are regulated at the state level by the Department of Motor Vehicles. San Francisco officials, wary of a proposed expansion of Cruise cars operating in the city, have asked for restraint in such plans to offer the best path toward public confidence.

San Franciscos experience may soon be national. There are more than 50 companies that have received permits to test driverless cars in the United States and 26 that have actually reported mileage, said Mollie DAgostino, policy lead on emerging technology at the University of California, Davis Institute of Transportation Studies.

This isn't the same as Tesla's autopilot

There are five levels of driving automation, as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers. They start at 1, where the car warns you if youre drifting out of your lane or tells you if theres something in your blind spot.

Driverless cars are not, DAgostino emphasizes, the same as what is erroneously called autopilot or self-driving mode in cars like Teslas. Those are all Level 3 or below and mean the driver is still driving the car, even when driver support features are engaged.

Only at Level 4 does true self-driving begin, with no driver necessary in the drivers seat and no steering wheel or pedals required. At Level 4 the vehicle can only operate under limited conditions. Level 5 is when the car can drive everywhere in all conditions.

Fully autonomous vehicles, either at Level 4 or 5, are currently being tested in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix and Austin, with more expansions planned.

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The cars are easy to pick out. Theyre usually white and studded with cameras and spinning sensors on the roof, front, back and sides. They also make a faint, pleasant humming noise, which is only audible if you get up close to one. Waymos can play a chime-like tone to tell you they've arrived.

In California, AVs are regulated by the Department of Motor Vehicles. It offers three types of permits: testing with a safety driver, testing without a driver and actual deployment for public or commercial use.

So far 53 manufacturers have permits for AVs with test drivers in California, seven with driverless testing permits and three approved for commercial service, the DMV told USA TODAY in a statement.

What would a driverless car future look like?

In the best-of-all-possible-worlds scenario, three things come together: electrification makes transportation carbon-free, automation makes driving safer and cheaper and shared mobility reduces traffic and makes urban spaces more efficient and less about cars.

This was the future imagined in a study published in 2017 called Three Revolutions in Urban Transportation. In it, University of California, Davis transportation researchers described how these three pillars could come together to create a greener and more sustainable transportation system.

Six years later, that dream is still in first gear.

Electrification is well along the way, 7.2% of new cars sold in the first quarter of 2023 were electric. Automation is coming. Unfortunately, getting Americans to use buses, vans, carpools and trains isn't easy, however smart and responsive they are. Nationwide, public transit has declined markedly post-COVID.

The problem is that even with the shift to electric, unless some type of public transit is baked into the model, autonomous vehicles still mean a world dominated by private cars  pushing off the goal of fewer miles per person and less energy used.

The alternative is major travel corridors served by efficient bus and rail systems that people get to with self-driving local cars, or smaller van-sized transit options for point-to-point service that can be summoned to nearby stops. All of this could be done by human drivers as well, but automation would (eventually) make it cheaper.

The flip side is that driverless ride-hailing services might become so inexpensive people wouldnt bother with transit and actually increase their miles driven.

Public incentives will almost certainly be necessary to get to real cost and carbon savings over time, said DAgostino.

While that might seem impossible, she notes that after decades of the dominance of privately owned cars in the United States, were in the middle of a transportation revolution few would have imagined a generation ago.

Americans have embraced ride-sharing, with many young people saying they have no need or desire to drive or own their own cars. In cities and towns bike and scooter share programs are eagerly used. Electric vehicles have gone from odd outliers to a staple of Superbowl advertising.

I remain optimistic, said DAgostino. I think the three revolutions' future is not written yet. I think theres a chance for AVs to complement a multimodal future.

How safe are self-driving cars?

A main selling point of self-driving cars is that eventually theyll be safer than human-driven cars because they wont make human mistakes  plus theyll make traffic calmer and less risky by coordinating their movements.

So far, however, there are few enough of them that it's hard to make comparisons. In February the federal Office of Highway Policy Information estimated Americans traveled 270.5 billion miles. Over the 12 months of December 2021 to November 2022, autonomous vehicles in California drove just 622,257 miles without a driver.

In general, they have a relatively safe driving record, though there have been multiple minor accidents.

So far there has been only one death reported from a fully autonomous self-driving car, in 2018. It was in Tempe, Arizona, when an Uber AV with a safety driver on board ran into a woman late at night. The accident occurred on a four-lane road, not in a crosswalk. Elaine Herzberg died of her injuries at a local hospital.

Prosecutors ruled that Uber was not criminally responsible for the crash, but the safety driver was charged with negligent homicide. The trial is scheduled for June.

Uber automated vehicles no longer exists, as of 2020 when the company shuttered the division, said DAgostino. Being able to demonstrate safety is make-or-break for the industry.

Some San Franciscans note that while self-driving cars get bad press for stopping when they shouldnt, they also stop when human drivers might not.

At a busy intersection near his home, Michael Michon says hes been nearly run over multiple times by speeding drivers who dont see him in the crosswalk.

But the one time a driverless Waymo car was coming down, it saw me far away and carefully approached the intersection, he said. I believe these cars are going to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety dramatically.

What's it like to ride in a driverless car?

My ride in a driverless car reminded me of driving with teens  they've got the basics down but still lack confidence.

The car parked around the block from my house because that's where it could find a parking place. It took me too long to get there, so after I got in, it decided I'd been a no-show. A very nice man came on over the car's audio system and asked me to step out of the car so it could start over. The car went around the block and we were able to begin when it came back.

The ride itself was remarkably smooth. Maybe after being in a lot of Ubers and Lyfts, it just wasn't that odd to have so much of the interaction happen on a phone screen.

The car calmly drove to a friend's house, then the supermarket and then back home. When confronted with buses and garbage trucks on narrow streets it pulled over a bit. In a few instances where it wasn't clear who should go first, there were slight standoffs, but it was always resolved fairly quickly.

That's one of the points of all the testing, said Waymo's Karp. The cars are learning how to deal with such situations and get better over time. "You have to teach the autonomous drivers to be assertive but not aggressive," she said.

Watching the steering wheel calmly turn itself was fascinating but not terrifying, perhaps because in city traffic the car never got over 25 miles per hour.

It was, though, a little like being in a fishbowl, with pedestrians pointing, other drivers staring and at least one child calling out, "Look! A self-driver!"

How does the public see them?

Public reactions to AVs range from amusement to fascination to frustration. In San Francisco, most people ignore them entirely while others stop and take pictures.

Though whats curious in the light of day can seem menacing at night.

Mike Stein lives on a block that is part of the self-driving cars evening training area. One day he was coming home from an evening walk and needed to cross a street to get to his door. A self-driving car loomed out of the fog, wanting to turn left directly in his path.

As a pedestrian, Stein went to make eye contact with the driver so theyd know he was there. Instead, it simply sat humming in the road waiting for him to cross.

I just had to trust that it wasnt going to suddenly decide the street was clear, he said. It was eerily like running into an apex predator that hunts at night, and it just happened to not be hungry at that moment.

Elizabeth Weise covers climate change and the energy transition for USA TODAY. You can reach her at eweise@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Driverless cars crawl the streets in San Francisco: What to know
Teresa Saner

A faculty member in the math department will become interim principal at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School for the 2023-2024 school year.

Teresa Saner will take over June 1 for Kara Rapacz, who resigned last month after 16 years with SHG, including the last six as principal.

Rapacz was the first lay principal of SHG or one of its preceding institutions, Sacred Heart Academy, Griffin High School and Cathedral Boys High School. SHA joined with the all-boys Griffin in 1988 in forming SHG.

More: SHG principal to resign at year's end

Rapacz told The State Journal-Register that she is pursuing other opportunities but hasn't accepted a position yet.

Saner, 51, was in the first graduating class of SHG in 1989.

Before coming to SHG, Saner taught math in higher education and had administrative experience at Springfield College in Illinois, Benedictine University Springfield and Lincoln College.

I am beyond grateful for her willingness to assume this position, said Sister Katherine OConnor, a Springfield Dominican, who is stepping down as SHG president after 18 years.

There was no immediate word on a successor for O'Connor, who announced her departure in November.

Saner received her bachelors and masters degrees in mathematics from Saint Louis University. She and her husband, Dave, will have a freshman and senior at SHG next school year. The Saners are members of Christ the King Parish.

This story will be updated.

Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788, sspearie@sj-r.com, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Teresa Saner is the interim principal at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School
According to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office, there were two confirmed homicide cases in 2022. So far in 2023, that number has doubled.

Jillian Durkin, the SRSO's public information officer, told the News Journal that the county has investigated four homicides since Jan. 1 and each one has been solved.

"Most homicides are spur-of-the-moment crimes, which make them difficult to prevent," said Sheriff Bob Johnson in a written statement. "The silver lining of this dark cloud is that all of our homicides have been solved."

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One of the homicides this year occurred on March 26 and was ruled justifiable by the sheriff's office, Durkin said.

The jump from two to four homicides in Santa Rosa is not necessarily out of the ordinary. According to Florida Department of Law Enforcement statistics, Santa Rosa has averaged 3.4 murders per year since 2000.

Santa Rosa has never had more than six murders in a single year since 2000 and have had three years without murders. The sheriff's office reported six murders in 2002, 2010 and 2016. It reported zero murders in 2003, 2009 and 2012.

The last time the Santa Rosa Sheriff's Office reported more than six murders in a single year was in 1998 when it reported eight.

Chloe Davidson charged in New Year's killing of her husband

The first Santa Rosa County homicide the SRSO worked came on New Year's Day. A 32-year-old former Escambia County Sheriff's deputy trainee, Chloe Davidson, allegedly shot and killed her husband, Doug, just two hours into the new year.

Deputies responded to Davidson's Deerwood Circle home in Pace where they found her husband suffering from a gunshot wound. Once paramedics arrived on scene, he was pronounced dead.

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Davidson is charged with second-degree murder with a firearm and is scheduled to appear in court June 6, according to court records.

SRSO presser: 'What a human piece of trash': Navarre man shot and killed next to his 4-year-old child.

Jason Curtis allegedly shot Colby Vinson next to his 4-year-old child

On March 19, 53-year-old Jason Curtis allegedly fatally shot Colby Vinson while Vinson was next to his 4-year-old child.

During an investigation, the SRSO's Major Crimes Unit said they discovered Curtis possessed what they believe to be the murder weapon. They also found a note that detailed Vinson's physical description, vehicle description, home address and work address.

Sheriff Johnson said Curtis was a "human piece of trash" during a press conference for allegedly shooting Vinson in proximity to his child.

"To shoot somebody with their 4-year-old child right there. I get up here ad nauseum about how I'm shocked about how people treat each other (and) this just goes beyond that," Johnson said.

Curtis is charged with first-degree premeditated murder, and is awaiting his next court date on July 5.

Rachiel Moore, the child's mother  and former stepdaughter of Curtis  has also been charged. She was charged with accessory after the fact of a capital felony and tampering with evidence in a capital felony. Her next court date is May 11.

SWAT deployed: Suspect in fatal shooting of Navarre man surrenders after SWAT deployed

Aubrey Luker surrenders to SWAT after allegedly killing Toby Hill

The most recent homicide occurred April 7 when 41-year-old Aubrey Luker allegedly shot and killed 43-year-old Toby Hill.

Deputies were called to the 2600 block of Salamanca Street in Navarre after reported gunshots. Upon arrival, SRSO deputies discovered Hill with a gunshot wound.

EMS pronounced Hill dead at the scene.

Luker was believed to be in a nearby building, and SWAT was deployed to apprehend him. Luker eventually surrendered at the 8200 block of Country Bay Boulevard.

Luker is charged with first-degree premeditated murder and is awaiting his next court date on July 6.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: SRSO solved four homicides in 2023, double that of 2022.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has called for Senate Democrats to hold a special caucus meeting to discuss gun violence in the wake of multiple high-profile mass shootings over the past several weeks.

Schumers call to action comes after a gunman with an AR-15-style rifle killed eight people and wounded seven at a mall Saturday in Allen, Texas, and five other people, including an 8-year-old boy, were killed by a suspect armed with an AR-15 in Cleveland, Texas, April 29.

President Biden on Sunday called on Congress once again to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high capacity-magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers, Biden said in a statement.

Schumer on Sunday called the news of the mass shooting in Texas horrifying.

We pray for the victims, the survivors, their families and the community and thank the first responders, he tweeted. We must keep working to end gun violence in America. We must keep working for stronger gun safety legislation.

The big question for Schumer is whether Texas Sen. John Cornyn, the leading Republican on gun-violence issues, will agree to negotiate a new gun-safety bill with Democrats.

He played a central role in crafting the gun-violence bill that Congress passed and Biden signed after the mass shooting at the Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, nearly a year ago.

Cornyn said earlier this year that he didnt see much opportunity for Democrats and Republicans to address new federal laws to curb mass shootings.

Cornyn and other Republicans oppose banning assault rifles and high-capacity magazines, as well as requiring background checks for all gun purchases and transfers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Seattle Public Library has announced a plan for teens and young adults across the United States to access books and audiobooks, including books that may have been banned in their local community.

The program is called Books Unbanned and it invites teens and young adults, aged 13 to 26, to access the librarys entire collection of thousands of e-books and audiobooks.

We believe in your right to read what you want, discover yourself and form your own opinions, the Library states on its website.

According to the site, anyone in the U.S. between the ages of 13 and 26 can get a card to check out up to ten books at a time and to put five books on hold.

The library said that no one will be told about what books are checked out.

As part of our commitment to intellectual freedom, we protect your privacy and keep information about you and your use of the Library confidential. Confidentiality extends to all records with identifying information about you, including your requests for materials and borrowing history. We will not disclose this information except as necessary for the proper operation of the Library, upon your consent or as required by law, the library says on its site.

The Books Unbanned program is funded by private support through The Seattle Public Library Foundation.

More information can be found here.








On May 4, 2023, the "Oriental Aesthetics" forum, a sub-forum of the ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations, is held in Milan, Italy.

The "Oriental Aesthetics" forum, a sub-forum of the ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilizations, was held recently in Milan, Italy.



The forum, focusing on Chinese culture and oriental aesthetics, brought together experts and scholars from the fashion design industry in China and Italy to engage in discussions on East-West aesthetics and fashion and design cooperation, with the aim of promoting cultural exchange between the East and the West.

Mario Boselli, president of the Italy China Council Foundation (ICCF), said that both sides will further deepen cooperation, carry out cultural exchange activities in various fields, and actively promote exchanges between China and Italy in the fields of fashion and culture.

Chinese Consul General in Milan Liu Kan said that the friendship between China and Italy over the past 2,000 years have greatly promoted the exchange between Eastern and Western civilizations as well as their integration. He added that continuing friendship and cooperation between the two countries follows the trend of the times and the will of the people, and is in the fundamental interests of the two peoples. The Chinese Consulate General in Milan will continue to support exchanges and cooperation between China and Italy in areas such as the economy, trade, and culture, Liu said.

Bai Yugang, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Shandong Provincial Committee and director of Nishan World Center for Confucian Studies, pointed out in his speech that the forum aimed to explore the brilliant clothing culture of the Chinese nation, showcase the unique charm of Eastern aesthetics, and enhance the Italian people's understanding of the Chinese civilization. He also called on both sides to deepen academic research, strengthen personnel exchange, expand cooperation in various fields, and work toward a better life for humanity.

During the forum, an inauguration ceremony of the Chinese Culture Fashion Institute and a signing ceremony of the cooperation between the China Confucius Foundation and the ICCF were held.

The event was co-hosted by the Nishan World Center for Confucian Studies and the Chinese Culture Fashion Institute. The ninth Nishan Forum on World Civilization is scheduled to take place in Shandong province in September this year, with three overseas sub-forums to be held in Thailand, Austria, and Italy.
A whale has washed up on a beach in East Lothian for the second time in less than a month.

The "badly decomposed" minke was found on North Berwick beach on Sunday morning.

East Lothian Council cordoned off the area before the carcass was lifted onto a trailer.

It is the second whale to wash up on the same beach in recent weeks, with a nine-tonne minke whale carcass also removed on 21 April.

Further north, a dead humpback whale was found on a sand bank at Loch Fleet nature reserve in Sutherland on Friday.

An expert at the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS) said initial examinations suggested the juvenile female had died after becoming tangled in creel lines.

SMASS is a dedicated research and reporting project for stranded cetaceans, pinnipeds, marine turtles and large sharks in Scotland.

Stranded whales longer than 25ft (7.62m) are considered "royal fish", with the Scottish government having first claim on those found dead or stranded on the shoreline north of the border on behalf of the Crown.

If it does not want to claim it, it will speak to the local authority and environmental officers, who can then arrange to collect the carcass.

Responsibility for smaller whales, as well as all porpoises, dolphins and sturgeons, lies with the local authority.
A vigil was held for the victims of the shooting on 7 May

An engineer from India, a young family and two primary school-age sisters are among the eight people who died in a mass shooting at a shopping mall near Dallas, Texas, on Saturday.

Seven people were injured, some with multiple gunshot wounds, and remain in hospital.

The crime is still being investigated as more information becomes known about the people who died at the Allen Premium Outlets mall.

Here's what we know so far.

Aishwarya Thatikonda

Aishwarya Thatikonda, an Indian engineer who lived in the Dallas suburb of McKinney, was among those killed, according to a family representative.

She was less than a week away from celebrating her 28th birthday.

Thatikonda

Thatikonda was at the Allen mall with a friend when the shooting took place. Her friend was wounded in the shooting.

Her family is now planning to repatriate her remains to India with the help of the Telugu Association of North America.

Thatikonda's LinkedIn profile shows that she graduated with an undergraduate degree in civil engineering in India in 2018, before receiving a master's degree in construction management from Eastern Michigan University in the US in 2020.

For the last two years, she was working for a Dallas-based contracting firm on a US work visa.

The Cho family

Two parents and their child were killed in the shooting, say officials from the South Korean consulate in Houston, the Dallas Morning News reported.

The parents were named as Cho Kyu Song, 37 and Kang Shin Young, 35. Officials added that they are American citizens of Korean descent.

Their son James Cho, 3, was the youngest victim of the attack.

The six-year-old was injured and has been released from the hospital intensive care unit. He is the only surviving member of the family.

A verified GoFundMe page - now topping $1m (792,000)-says that they were at the mall to exchange clothing that their six-year-old son had received as a birthday gift only four days prior.

"An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre," friends of the family wrote on a fundraiser page.

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Mr Cho worked as an immigration lawyer at a nearby law firm, according to the New York Times. He was learning to speak Spanish, because he was increasingly representing Spanish-speaking immigrants in court.

"As an immigrant himself, Kyu has a deep pride, respect, and appreciation for the American Dream," says a profile for Mr Cho on the firm's website.

Two sisters

Daniela Mendoza, 11, and her sister Sofia, 8, were killed in the attack, according to officials from their school district.

Their mother, Ida Mendoza, remains in critical condition in hospital.

The principal of their primary school, Cheri Cox Elementary School, described the girls as "rays of sunshine" in an email sent to the school community on Monday.

"Words cannot express the sadness we feel as we grieve the loss of our students," principal Krista Wilson wrote to parents.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mendoza family, the families of the victims, and all those affected by this senseless tragedy."

Christian LaCour, 20

Another victims of the attack was Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard.

His sister, Brianna Smith, told ABC News that he was on-duty at the mall when the shooting took place.

Christian LaCour was reportedly on duty at the mall when the shooting took place

"He was a really sweet kid," Ms Smith told ABC. "I'm sad he's gone."

On Facebook, LaCour's grandmother, Sandra Montgomery, described him as a "beautiful soul" with "goals for his future".

"Please pray for my family," she wrote. "They are very close and I know this is almost unbearable."

Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32

The eight victim was identified by Texas authorities on Monday night as Elio Cumana-Rivas.

He was from Dallas, Texas.
A security officer allegedly being assaulted while on duty at City Square Residences, SAS confirms police report filed. (PHOTO: Security Association Singapore)

SINGAPORE  A security officer was allegedly assaulted by a group of men at City Square Residences along Kitchener Link on Sunday morning (7 May).

The Security Association Singapore (SAS) confirmed in a media statement on Monday that the incident took place at around 6:30am, and a police report has been made.

According to the statement, the victim, Security Supervisor SS Suraskumar from Trek Investigations and Security Management Services, was performing his regular entry checks when the attack occurred.

SAS executive director Jourdan Sabapathy said that "the attack was caught on CCTV footage and has been shared with the authorities," adding that the injured officer is now recuperating.

Two men can be observed physically confronting the security officer in video footages shared with Yahoo Southeast Asia. One of them forcefully pushed the officer, causing him to fall backwards onto the barrier gate at the condominium's presumed entrance.

Police confirmed the incident in a statement to Yahoo Southeast Asia on Tuesday (9 May), "On 7 May 2023 at 6.52am, the Police were alerted to a case of assault at 4 Kitchener Link.

"A 56-year-old man was conscious when conveyed to the hospital. Two men, aged 26 and 58, are assisting with investigations into an alleged case of voluntarily causing hurt to security officer. Police investigations are ongoing."

SAS condemns attacks on security officers

The attack has raised concerns, with Trek managing director Suresh Ponniah expressing the company's commitment to the safety and security of its employees. He said they are cooperating with authorities to investigate and identify the perpetrators.

The residence's Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) chairman Barathan Pasupathi also said it is committed to providing care for the injured officer.

"We should collectively condemn this abuse and ensure the maximum extent of the law and enforcement is served," he added.

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SAS has also condemned any form of abuse towards security officers following the recent spate of attacks against them.

It pointed out that according to a survey conducted by the Union of Security Employees last year, four in ten security officers in Singapore have faced abuse, with verbal abuse being the most common. These findings have been consistent year on year, it added.

Despite efforts to enhance the protection of security officers, such as the amendment of the Private Security Industry Act last year to create specific offences with enhanced penalties for abuse and harassment of security officers, the recent events have been the most egregious cases yet, said SAS.

In response to these incidents, SAS has been working with security agencies to provide legal assistance to abused officers.

"We have also encouraged our members to display the anti-abuse decal and to provide body worn cameras to their security officers as a deterrent," SAS added.

The association also calls for a proactive approach that involves engaging all stakeholders to change mindsets and supporting frontline workers in carrying out their duties.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.
Senate Republicans say former President Trump is consolidating his support in the Republican Party and now looks more likely to become the partys nominee in 2024 despite his legal problems.

Trump has doubled his polling lead over his closest rival, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), since Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) indicted him on March 30.

During that time, the former president has picked several prominent endorsements in Congress, including the support of National Republican Senatorial Committee Chairman Steve Daines (R-Mont.).

Republican senators and GOP strategists say Dainess endorsement is a sign that Trump is viewed as the favorite to win the partys presidential nomination in 2024.

They say the leader of the Senate Republican campaign arm wants to have a good working relationship with him to maximize the chances of winning back control of the Senate.

I just think that his nomination is inevitable. I really do. Hes going to be the nominee. Id be stunned if hes not, said one Republican senator who requested anonymity to discuss the primary and hasnt yet endorsed a candidate.

Youve seen the numbers. Ive talked to voters. People are beginning to recognize that. Steve Dainess endorsement reflects that reality. Hes going to be the nominee, we want him to work with us, the senator added.

Trump led DeSantis by an average of 16 points on March 30, the day Bragg indicted him in New York, according to national polls analyzed by RealClearPolitics. By May 1, Trumps average polling lead over his rival had grown to nearly 30 points.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), who is endorsing Trumps presidential bid, said the former president seems to be consolidating his support in the party.

Hes certainly growing, if you believe in polling, and you hear it on the ground too. Part of it was a reaction to the New York prosecution. He became a victim of an out-of-control left-wing prosecutor and it gave him a bump, he said.

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Now does he sustain this? Im supporting him but, you know, it depends on how DeSantis engages. Does he run? If he runs, what campaign does he run? Graham added.

Some Trump allies are speculating that DeSantis may decide not to challenge Trump after all given the former presidents huge polling lead.

DeSantis said Friday he will make a decision relatively soon.

Youve got to put up or shut up on that, he said at a news conference.

A second Republican senator who has stayed neutral and requested anonymity to discuss the race agreed that Trump is the clear favorite heading into next years election. The senator said Daines wants to get ahead of the pack in endorsing Trump to increase the odds of working with him to help flip the Senate.

The lawmaker said I assume Trump will be the candidate on the Republican presidential ticket in next years general election.

The senator said a growing sense of Trumps inevitability likely drove the recent decisions by Daines and Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) to back Trumps third White House bid.

A Republican strategist said Daines wants to have a good relationship with Trump so they can work together to back the most electable candidates in next years Senate primaries.

It looks like Daines is working to try to point Trump to some of the stronger candidates in Senate races, the strategist said.

One of the GOP senators who endorsed Trump privately expressed reservations about his electability in an interview with The Hill shortly after he launched his presidential campaign in November.

The lawmaker said he wanted to wait to see if Trump could move past his obsession over what he claimed was widespread fraud in the 2020 election.

Trump still regularly claims without evidence that he lost the last election because of fraud, but Senate Republican concerns about his electability against President Biden have waned.

An Economist/YouGov poll of 1,500 adults nationwide conducted April 29 to May 2 showed Trump and Biden tied in a hypothetical matchup while it also showed Biden ahead of DeSantis by 3 points.

Not only Donald Trump doing well in the primary and hes the clear frontrunner in the primary, hes also beating Joe Biden in the general election, 47 to 43, said Jim McLaughlin, Trumps pollster, of his firms polls on a hypothetical rematch of the 2020 election.

Our polling never had [Trump] ahead in the general in either 2016 or 2020, he said.

A lot of folks dont understand  its pretty amazing, people who are supposed to be smart  why Donald Trump is as popular as he is, especially amongst the base. The reason is because he had a successful presidency. [Voters] agreed with him on the issues, he added.

Trump has compiled 11 Senate Republican endorsements while DeSantis, who has yet to formally announce his plans to run for president, has yet to secure any strong Senate support.

Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) hosted a meet-and-greet event for DeSantis in Washington April 18. The only other senator to show up was Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), who said afterward that he doesnt plan to endorse in next years presidential primary.

Some of Trumps critics in the Senate GOP leadership argue that its too soon to declare Trump the partys likely nominee in 2024.

I think the polls are going to be very fluid. They have been already. Coming out of November, DeSantis was ahead. Now Trumps ahead. I just think theres a lot of volatility in the electorate right now, and I think national polls are probably going to be a little misleading. Presidential stuff is all state by state, said Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.), who opposed efforts by Trump allies to object to the certification of Bidens 2020 victory Jan. 6.

Thune acknowledged Trump has got a formidable position and hes got a very loyal following but argued, I think there are an awful lot of people there that are up for grabs too.

Cornyn, an adviser to the Senate GOP leadership, said its very early.

Whit Ayres, a prominent Republican pollster, said the possibility of additional indictments against Trump by the Department of Justice and the Fulton County district attorney in Georgia could swing the race away from Trump, predicting that charges from those prosecutors would have more credibility than Braggs indictment.

People seem to have an inevitable tendency to jump to premature conclusions well before we know many of the key elements of a campaign environment, he said in response to comments by some GOP senators that Trumps victory in next years primary looks inevitable.

What might be the political effects of serious felony indictments backed up a mountain of compelling evidence? he asked of potential felony charges that Trump incited the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and tried to interfere in the 2020 election in Georgia.

Are Republican voters really going to dismiss multiple credible felony indictments backed up by substantial evidence, if indeed they occur? They might, but I dont know the answer to that, he said.

Graham, one of Trumps closest allies on the Hill, however, argued that Trump is running a more disciplined campaign, which will enhance his perceived electability in the general election.

The more he talks about the contrast between his presidency and that of Biden the better off hell be. You see thats beginning to pay dividends, he said.

Asked about the chairman of the Senate Republicans campaign arm endorsing Trump, Graham said, I think Steve understands  I know he has a close relationship with him  but he sees Trump as the most likely nominee.

Its an acknowledgement of Trumps power in the Republican primary world, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Eight people waiting at a bus stop in a Texas border city were killed and at least 10 others were injured early Sunday when an SUV rammed into them, officials said.

The victims, who are believed to be migrants, were at a stop near a Brownsville shelter known as the Ozanam Center, a senior law enforcement official said.

Shortly after the crash, around 8:30 a.m., seven deaths were reported. Sunday evening, Brownsville Mayor Trey Mendez said an additional person had died.

"Several more remain critical," Mendez said in a statement on Facebook.

Initially, the senior law enforcement official said, authorities believed it was an intentional act. The official later said that its not clear whether it was intentional and that the investigation into the motive is ongoing.

Brownsville Lt. Martin Sandoval echoed that in an interview, saying police were also looking into whether the driver was intoxicated or whether the incident was an accident.

But the driver, a Hispanic male, has not been cooperating with investigators, Sandoval said.

Emergency personnel take away a damaged vehicle after a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, on May 7, 2023. (Michael Gonzalez / AP)

"He has given us several names," said Sandoval, adding that authorities are waiting for a fingerprint match they hope will positively identify the driver, who has been charged with reckless driving.

Sandoval said more charges are likely. The FBI is assisting Brownsville police in the investigation, a spokesperson for the agency said.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland was briefed about the incident, the Department of Justice said.

Eleven people injured in the crash at 8:30 a.m. were taken to local hospitals, the Brownsville Fire Department said on its official Facebook page earlier Sunday.

One injured person was airlifted to Valley Baptist Medical Center in nearby Harlingen, the fire department said. It was not immediately clear whether that person was one of the original 11 who were transported, or a 12th person.

One migrant from Venezuela who had been staying at the Ozanam Center for three days told NBC affiliate KVEO of Brownsville that he was almost struck.

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We were waiting there, and the truck sped through the traffic light, and by the grace of God nothing happened to us, but they did hit the others around us, the man, who gave his name as Jesus, told the station.

Brownsville is one of the border cities that is already seeing a surge in migrants trying to cross into the U.S. from Mexico before the Title 42 immigration law expires Thursday.

The pandemic-era ban, imposed in the last year of the Trump administration, has turned migrants back to Mexico more than 2.5 million times since it went into effect in March 2020. Title 42 expelled migrants immediately, without allowing for asylum hearings. It did not levy penalties for repeated attempts to cross the border and recidivism grew under the law.

Mendez, the mayor, said Sunday afternoon that what happened remained unclear.

"As we continue to receive information on the tragic incident that occurred today, we have yet to receive evidence that this was an intentional act," the mayor said.

The Ozanam Center works in partnership with Catholic Charities. Sister Norma Pimentel, the executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley, said the Ozanam Center houses some migrants overnight. She said it has received no direct threats in connection with the border crisis in recent weeks.

Truly unfortunate that this tragic thing happened," Pimentel said. "Its something that with all the attention to the migrants it must pick up the attention to those who are against them.

Migrants dont deserve to face this tragic reality, Pimentel said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
As it looks to shore up resources to concentrate on its leading streaming service, Paramount+, Paramount Global wants to sell non-core assets such as its majority share in BET.

Shaquille ONeal, Kenya Barris, and 50 Cent  real name Curtis Jackson  are entering the bid for a majority stake in Paramount Globals BET Media Group.

Sources familiar with the bid say the trio has joined forces with Group Black, which aims to invest in and expand Black-owned media companies, private equity firm CVC Capital Partners, and Authentic Brands Group, which develops and licenses its brands to retail operators, for the potential business move, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Barris is already a minority stakeholder in BET Studios, a production division of BET, along with Rashida Jones and Aaron Rahsaan Thomas.

Celebrities (from left) Shaquille ONeal, 50 Cent and Kenya Barris have joined the growing list of people eyeing a majority stake in Paramount Globals BET Media Group. (Photos by, from left: Ethan Miller/Getty Images; Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images; Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Peabody Awards)

Bids for BET Media Group  which owns the VH1 and BET cable networks and the BET+ streaming service  reportedly are due later this month. With support from cable tycoon John Malone, Robert Johnson established BET in 1980. It was the first national television network aimed primarily toward Black viewers. Viacom, now known as Paramount Global, purchased BET in 2000 for $2.3 billion in shares and $570 million in existing debt.

Byron Allen, the founder and CEO of Allen Media Group, which owns theGrio, and actor-producer Tyler Perry  who owns a minority stake in the BET+ streaming service  also plan to bid for BET Media Group.

According to theGrio, Allen, the first Black American to own The Weather Channel, has amassed an empire comprising 36 broadcast television stations, 10 (24-hour HD) television networks and well-known names like theGrio, HBCUGo and Local Now. He has stated that his goal is to create the most extensive media conglomerate in the world.

BET is a great American brand and if it becomes available, were very interested and we will pursue it vigorously, the business mogul shared with theGrio. Its a big opportunity.

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Perry reportedly has partnered with private equity firm Ariel Alternatives, an affiliate of the asset-management company Ariel Investments, for his bid, The Journal reported. Music icon Sean Diddy Combs and his company, Revolt, have joined forces with investment firm HarbourView Equity Partners to consider an offer, according to reports.

As it looks to shore up resources to concentrate on its leading streaming service, Paramount+, Paramount Global wants to sell non-core assets such as its majority share in BET. The corporation last week disclosed a $1.1 billion first-quarter loss, which included a $511 million adjusted operating loss in its streaming segment.

Over the past few years, advertisers have made a greater effort to increase their spending with outlets run by minorities.

As African-Americans, we are very much underrepresented, Allen told theGrio. So I think its important we lean in; we control our platforms  we own them, that way we control the narrative. We control how were produced, how were depicted and how were seen around the world.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Shaq, 50 Cent, Kenya Barris latest group to launch bid for BET acquisition appeared first on TheGrio.
A long line of cars waiting to get into the prayer vigil for the victims of the Allen Premium Outlets mall shooting stretched along the road outside Cottonwood Creek Church.

About a dozen protesters stood to the left of the parking lot entrance waving brightly colored homemade signs. This voter opposes gun violence, one sign read.

When will it end? another sign said.

Inside the packed auditorium, Allen Mayor Ken Fulk addressed the crowd who gathered here Sunday evening, the day after eight people including children were shot dead.

We are praying for you, and we share in your grief, Fulk said.

Attendees of a prayer vigil hug each other after a mass shooting the day before Sunday, May 7, 2023, in Allen, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

The mayor shared his belief that the community would unite and come through the tragedy stronger. Authorities hadnt released the ages and names of the victims as of Sunday, but one victim was identified as Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard from Farmersville who died while on duty at the mall.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, right, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, left, and others applaud first responders during a prayer vigil after a mass shooting the day before Sunday, May 7, 2023, in Allen, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

Gov. Greg Abbott attended the prayer vigil but did not speak publicly. On Sunday morning, the governor called the massacre devastating.

Texans are hurting today, Abbott told FOX News. The people who are hurting the most, obviously, are the families of the victims. Families who lost a loved one. Families who have a loved one who is injured.

Stephanie Alford, a teacher at Allen High School, attended the vigil with her husband. She told the Star-Telegram that she thinks about mass shootings because of her profession but draws strength from her relationship with God.

I dont live in fear, she said.

Frisco resident Stacie Valley said she lives only 10 minutes away from the mall and has friends whove worked there.

When you know that youve walked in front of those stores, the only thing you can think of is, that could have been me or one of my friends, she said.

Robyne Kintz, former regional vice president of marketing for Simon Property Group, the owners of Allen Premium Outlets, said she teared up when she heard the news.

It really hit home to me and it just it crushed me when knowing what the store employees had to go through, Kintz told the Star-Telegram.

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Kintz worked at the mall for 10 years before leaving her position in 2016. She said she loved it when the mall was full on weekends and families were enjoying themselves.

Families were always there -- it was great, she said. And it was exactly that same way (Saturday). And to think that some Satan gets out of the car with a gun and shoots a family walking along the sidewalk.

A GoFundMe page called How to Help: Allen, Texas Mall Shooting has been established for people who want to help victims.

Valley, the Frisco resident, said the country is in the middle of an epidemic and more needs to be done to address mental health issues.

Theres two things, she said. We need new legislation passed for new gun control laws, but the second thing is ... the people that are pulling the trigger. Because you can have the gun sitting there all day, but its the mindset of the person that picks it up.

Keller resident Mary Ann Foley was one of the protesters still standing near the parking lot when the vigil ended.

Foley said she was livid when she heard about the shooting.

Why are we doing nothing? she asked.

Foley said shes not against responsible people owning guns, but she is against the easy access that Texans have to firearms, especially assault rifles, and shes tired of hearing people talk about thoughts and prayers after each mass shooting.

I would say you have my thoughts and prayers but youre gonna have my action, she said. They need action. Somebody needs to help.
Shelton View Elementary in Bothell is on lockdown Monday afternoon after a phone threat, according to the Bothell Police Department.

The threat was determined to be out of state.

According to Bothell police, officers arrived at the school within one minute.

They went from room to room to secure and clear all buildings.

The school will coordinate with parents on reunification plans with students.

Shelton View Elementary remains in lockdown, following threat by phone (from out of state). All school children and staff are SAFE. Officers were at school within 1 minute, went room to room to clear/secure buildings. School will soon coordinate reunification with parents. pic.twitter.com/iRzsNyDDA8  Bothell Police (@BothellPolice) May 8, 2023
A Mississippi Coast man was shirtless and covered in blood last weekend when he heard a woman cry out, Wheres my brother? Wheres my brother?

Earlier on Friday, Tony and his wife went out to downtown Ocean Springs to celebrate their wedding anniversary. He was just feet away when gunfire rang out at The Scratch Kitchen, a restaurant that was hosting a late-night Cinco de Mayo party on their patio. The mass shooting would leave one teen dead and seven others injured.

As dozens of people ran away from the restaurant, Tony did the opposite and stopped at the first victim he saw on the ground, who he described as a young man with a gunshot wound to the groin area.

A U.S. military veteran who now works in construction, Tony is trained in giving first aid and took off his shirt to wrap around the wound.

He was bleeding pretty good so I took my shirt and tried to plug the hole and keep his head up until police arrived, Tony told the Sun Herald. He asked that his last name not be used to protect his identity.

Tony propped the shooting victims head up and kept applying pressure to the wound. He also tried to help him retrieve his phone from his pocket. The victim wanted to get a relative on the phone.

He just wanted to talk to somebody, Tony said. He was polite. He was calm. I just kept talking to him to try to keep him conscious and coherent.

An Ocean Springs police officer also was providing aid until paramedics arrived. And thats when Tony ran over to the woman asking about her brother, he said.

1 dead, multiple people injured in mass shooting at downtown Ocean Springs restaurant

Witnesses recount Ocean Springs mass shooting scene

Tony ran to the woman, who he said collapsed when police told her that her brother was dead. Tony caught her head and held her for about five minutes, he said.

It was that blood-curdling scream, her brother was laying right in there, dead. That was the part that shook me up the most  just watching that piece of her leave her body.

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Crime scene tape surrounds The Scratch Kitchen restaurant in Ocean Springs after a shooting left 1 dead and several injured on Friday, May 5, 2023.

Jackson County Deputy Coroner Jason Prisock identified the deceased man as 19-year-old Chayse Harmon. Police told the Sun Herald he was shot in the chest.

Tony wasnt the only bystander who tried to help in the aftermath of the shooting.

Abranee Goldsmith tried to perform CPR on Harmon when she saw him fall to the ground after being shot.

I heard gunshots, so I got underneath the table, and I looked to the right and saw the (victim) gasping for air, Goldsmith told the Sun Herald on Saturday night. She was out celebrating Cinco De Mayo at the Scratch Kitchen that night.

Goldsmith found a T-shirt and tried to stop the blood rushing from Harmons body, she said.

I just couldnt leave here knowing I tried everything I could to try and help him, she said.

Young people dead in Mississippi Coast gun violence

Tony and Goldsmith both told the Sun Herald the age of the victims was what struck them the most.

Tony referred to the victim he helped as a kid, while Goldsmith called Harmon a baby. Before the 19-year-old was identified by officials, Goldsmith predicted the victim was under 21.

I cant imagine (the feeling) ... he was just a kid still, Tony said of the Harmons death. Its just the harsh reality of what happens all too often anymore.

Police arrest one in mass shooting that killed one, injured 6 at Ocean Springs restaurant

Harmon was the third teen to die from gun violence in less than a week on the Mississippi Coast. Haeleigh Stamper and D.D. Smith, both Hancock High School students, died last week in a shooting at an after-prom party in Bay St. Louis. Four others were wounded.

Haeleigh was 16 and D.D., 18, was set to graduate in a few short weeks.

Suspects have been arrested in both mass shootings. Cameron Brand, 19, faces murder and aggravated assault charges in the Bay St. Louis shooting. In an unprecedented move, authorities have not identified the suspect in the Ocean Springs shooting.

Scratch Kitchen shooting update

The Scratch Kitchen remains closed Monday and has been labeled an active crime scene by police. The restaurants owner, Brittany Alexander, has said she is fully cooperating with police and showing them surveillance from the restaurant.

The shooter, Alexander told the Sun Herald, jumped over the patio wall and was not a patron of the Scratch Kitchen.

Ocean Springs Mayor Kenny Holloway called the shooting an intentional act.

The senseless act of violence has shaken our small town and has shown a disregard for others safety, not only in our downtown district but throughout our city, he said in a press release.

The shooting has proven polarizing for Ocean Springs residents, with dozens of posts and hundreds of comments debating the future of the Scratch Kitchen in the Ocean Springs Talk of the Town Facebook group. Some are calling for the restaurant to close or end their after-hours parties, while others argue that residents should blame the shooter and not the business.

Residents are expected to voice their concerns about the mass shooting, possibly the largest in modern history in Ocean Springs, at a Tuesday Board of Alderpersons meeting.

Sun Herald journalists Hannah Ruhoff and Margaret Baker contributed to this report.

Crime scene tape still decorates The Scratch Kitchen bar and restaurant in Ocean Springs on Monday, May 8, 2023, after a shooting killed one at the restaurant on Friday.
These were the top looks at the coronation of King Charles III. Shop ceremony-inspired looks now.

 Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

The coronation of King Charles III was on Saturday, May 6, 2023, and among all the pomp and circumstance were some of most elegant looks we've seen all season. Many attendees opted to follow the precedent set by the late Queen herself, donning monochromatic looks that were vibrant, colorful and tasteful. Others chose to stand out with jewelry and decorative hats and headpieces. From the royal family itself to an impressive roster of attendees including visiting dignitaries, celebrities and extended family, we've rounded up our top five looks from the coronation ceremony along with dresses you can buy now to steal the looks for yourself.

So, what are we wearing? Subscribe to Revieweds weekly Style Check newsletter to get the answers from stylish people.

Radiant in yellow: Pippa Middleton

Pippa Middleton opted for a canary-yellow dress and hat for the coronation ceremony.

As the stylish younger sister of Princess Kate, Pippa Middleton arrived to the ceremony in a Claire Mischevani coat dress. The simple pale yellow number features long sleeves at a tasteful midi length, and added a touch of springtime brightness to the day's celebrations. To add a similar elegant style to your own wardrobe, consider shopping the Dolman Sleeve Sheath Dress from Alexia Admor. This dress features modern dolman sleeves and a knee-length profile that would be appropriate for religious services and work wardrobes alike. Shop the dress in women's sizes XS to XL in a Pippa-style yellow or six other timeless vibrant hues.

Trendy in pink: Queen Letizia of Spain

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain arrive to the coronation, Queen Letizia glowing in a timely pink skirt suit.

Not one to shy away from the style spotlight, Queen Letizia of Spain stunned in a bright pink Carolina Herrera suit. The skirt suit easily recalls some of the latest trends we've seen as far as Barbiecore goes, but styled with a wide-brimmed hat and tasteful heels, the dress looks fresh and modern. For your own "Barbie meets the King" moment, look no further than the Closet London ribbed pencil midi dress in pink. The style features a knee-length pencil skirt and wide sleeves, along with a self-fabric belt to accentuate your figure. Best of al, the bright pink shade is both trendy and timeless. Shop the ribbed pencil midi dress in women's sizes 2 to 12.

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Popping in blue and yellow: Dr. Jill and Finnegan Biden

First lady Jill Biden and granddaughter Finnegan Biden arrive at Westminster Abbey for the coronation in monochromatic blue and yellow ensembles.

In an apparent show of support for Ukraine, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and granddaughter Finnegan Biden wore blue and yellow ensembles to the coronation ceremony, respectively. Finnegan's yellow Markarian cape dress was soft, sweet and contemporary, while Dr. Biden's cornflower blue Ralph Lauren skirt suit looked powerful, confident and understated. Mirror Dr. Biden's effortless style with the Textured Crepe Notch Lapel Patch Pocket Button Front Jacket Skirt Set from Nippon Boutique. Available in six colors, including pale blue, the suit features a knee-length pencil skirt, and simple blazer with a scalloped notch lapel that adds visual interest and work-friendly elegance.

For a bold style statement, try on the Jacky Halter Dress from Simkhai. The dress is a play on Finnegan Biden's dress, reimagined with a halter neckline and an attached cape that extends from the bottom of the dress. Most notably, the dress features an acrylic strap neckpiece that eliminates the need for any jewelry. Shop the dress in women's sizes XS to L.

Topped with a blue fascinator: Zara Tindall

Zara Phillips wowed in a blue coat dress, topped with a fascinator.

While Zara Tindall, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth and niece to King Charles, opted for a custom Laura Green coat dress in sky blue, it was her stunning fascinator that we couldn't stop thinking about. The hat added a sophisticated finishing touch, along with the texture of the feathers. For a similar style that won't break the bank, opt for the Oridoor Organza Derby Fascinator, which is available in 20 different colors, each with small design tweaks. From feather-heavy versions to one that makes use an especially pronounced bow, this sweet hat will be the elegant accessory you've been waiting for.

Powerful in teal: Penny Mordaunt

Penny Mordaunt stole the show in blue.

If there was one look that stole the show during the coronation ceremony, it had to come from Penny Mordaunt, Leader of the House of Commons, who donned a custom teal Safiyaa dress and cape, complete with gold fir leaves that crowned her head and adorned her shoulders. The powerful look was front and center as Mordaunt carried the sword of the state during the ceremony. To replicate Mordaunt's look in your own wardrobe, reach for the Valentina Tie Waist Bodycon Midi Dress from Reiss. The long sleeve dress features a tie-waist design that highlights the silhouette, while the keyhole cutout adds a touch of modern sophistication. Finally, complete the ensemble with the Chargances Gold Leaf Crown Headband. Shop the Valentina Midi Dress in women's sizes 0 to 12.

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews and more.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

This article originally appeared on Reviewed: Shop the best looks from King Charles III's coronation
 Flash

Switzerland is preparing to welcome Chinese tourists as it expects tourist arrivals from China to increase rapidly in the coming months, a senior official at Switzerland's national tourism agency said.

Simon Bosshart, chief markets officer East at Switzerland Tourism, said he is confident about the return of Chinese visitors following the lifting of pandemic restrictions. "China will become a very important market for Switzerland once again," he said.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese visitors were the highest tourist spenders in Switzerland, spending an average of 380 Swiss francs ($425) per person a day, according to Switzerland Tourism.

In 2019, the number of overnight stays by Chinese tourists reached 1.8 million, making China the fourth-largest source market for Switzerland. However, the number of visitors fell to between 2 and 10 percent of 2019's totals during the past three years.

Bosshart, who was the agency's China director and has been involved in the Chinese market for more than 17 years, noted it is always striking how things quickly change in China.

"With its ambitious and fast-developing nature, once things really arrive in China, China is much quicker in transforming into a reality than any other country," he said.

China's pent-up demand for travel to Switzerland is already evident, he said, "with visa demand back to 30 percent in January and February, compared to the same period in 2019".

"This is a very clear sign of recovery," he said.

While Switzerland's Chinese market is currently small, Bosshart believes its potential is massive.

"China is a huge market with a population that is developing fast, living in big cities, and looking for authentic experiences, pure nature, and relaxing environments. Switzerland is well-positioned to meet the needs of Chinese tourists for such unique experiences," Bosshart said.

He believes quality tourism will recover faster and shape the future of the market following the end of the pandemic.

"I think the role of China has changed. Before COVID-19, China was a mass market, but now the market will fundamentally change in its quality. Europe has come to the limit when it comes to capacity for mass tourism, especially in destinations like Switzerland, which is not a cheap destination," he said.

Bosshart emphasized that sustainable travel is also a major focus for Switzerland's tourism board. With European governments promoting sustainable travel and requiring tourism boards to promote it as well, Switzerland is putting a lot of effort into this area.

Gary Bowerman, Asia travel and consumer trends analyst and director of the consultancy Checkin Asia, said: "Switzerland has established a strong reputation in China for the quality and prestige of its brands and products and as a tourism destination, so it is well-placed to attract affluent tourists who want to explore the country and learn about its history, culture, landscapes and cuisines in more detail."

Dimitrios Buhalis, head of the department tourism and hospitality at Bournemouth University, echoed the view, saying: "Sustainability is essential for destination management and also for ensuring that tourism benefits local communities.

"Destinations need to look after their resources and ensure that they support the experience of their customers," he said. "This is a global trend and will involve travelers and the entire tourism industry."




KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)  Ross Chastain used to be known primarily as the driver with the family roots in watermelon farming, and whose victory lane celebrations usually involved standing on the roof of his car and smashing a melon to pieces on the pavement.

Now, hes becoming known for an aggressive driving style that is repeatedly rubbing others the wrong way.

The latest incident came Sunday at Kansas Speedway, where Chastain first earned a torrent of expletives over the radio from Kyle Busch, then squeezed Noah Gragson into the wall with about 60 laps to go. The latter dust-up led to a wild scene on pit road, where Chastain threw a haymaker at Gragson and the two had to be pulled apart by security.

"Im sick and tired of it, Gragson said afterward, while dropping a few expletives of his own. The guy runs into everyone. When you have guys like Chase Elliott and other guys telling you to beat his ass, everyone is just sick of him.

The incident came six days after the NASCAR Cup Series ran its rain-delayed race at Dover, and Chastain got into the back of Brennan Poole, sending him up the track and taking Kyle Larson out of the race in the process.

Larson vented over his radio about Chastain while Poole was more pointed in his criticism during a televised interview.

I havent really seen the replay, but it felt like I just got ran over really for no reason 80 laps into the race, he said. "Doesnt make any sense to me. I guess thats something hes been known to do here recently. Probably needs to get his butt whooped.

Last month, Denny Hamlin had a $50,000 fine and 25-point penalty upheld after he acknowledged on his weekly podcast that he intentionally wrecked Chastain on the last lap of the Phoenix race in March.

I got no respect from him, said Hamlin, who won Sunday's race at Kansas, so I chose not to give him any.

Chastain, who was fifth at Kansas and leads the NASCAR Cup Series points standings, was even criticized by Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace, who was a guest analyst on the Fox broadcast at Dover: "He's got a steering wheel in his hand and a brake and a gas (pedal) at his feet. He could have controlled that a little better. That was a little too aggressive, in my opinion.

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Back in Wallace's day, it wouldn't have taken long for someone to retaliate. Dale Earnhardt had a reputation for policing the way drivers acted on the drack, and many others from NASCAR's heyday did the same thing.

Yet the furor also begs the question: Is Chastain exactly what NASCAR needs these days?

The series has struggled to attract audiences, and sections of empty seats at Kansas Speedway on a bright, sunny Sunday were the latest evidence of it. Many drivers have told The Associated Press that one of the series' problems is the lack of identifiable stars in the Cup Series.

Perhaps Chastain can embrace the role of the villain. There's a fine line to walk between creating drama and creating havoc, though.

Take the incident with Busch on Sunday. Chastain was racing him hard shortly before Busch crashed out of the race  Chastain had nothing to do with that  and the two-time series champion often regarded as something of a villain himself lit into him over the radio.

He's pissed because I'm pissed that he races like an (expletive), Busch told his team, and so I doored him twice down the backstretch like, This is your warning, boy.

Apparently the warning wasn't heeded. Or at least, not where Gragson was concerned.

Just got fenced by him," Gragson said in explaining their pit-road altercation. Nobody else has the balls to at least confront him, at least just grab him and do something. Hes going to keep doing it. Im over it. Im ready to fight him. I didnt even get a shot in because the security guards got in the middle of it.

Chastain acknowledged racing Gragson hard and defended the swipe he took on pit road.

Noah and I have a very similar attitude on the racetrack, and we train together, we prepare together, we know every little bit about each other," Chastain said. "Definitely crowded him up off of four, and he took a swipe at us in three, and then he came down and grabbed ahold of me, and a very big man once told me we have a no-push policy here at Trackhouse.

That policy will surely be tested in the coming weeks.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens prove young Black love is alive and well. On May 6, the couple tied the knot again in Cabo San Lucas. On Instagram, Biles, 26, hinted she was leaving for her international wedding. The gymnast shared a photo of Owens, 27, smiling gleefully and captioned it & were off, followed with bride and groom emojis.

Saying I Do (The First Time)

Biles and Owens met on a dating app and the rest was history. The successful duo got married April 22 at the Harris County Courthouse after three years of dating. During the ceremony, Biles wore a flowy, white halter dress and Owens wore a tan ensemble. During a previous social media post, Biles told a fan she had to get married in the U.S first since the couple was planning a destination wedding.

The Details Of The Mexican Getaway

The couple got married in front of 144 of their closest family and friends. On social media, Biles said the plan was for the weddings decor to include, a champagne, gold, and white color scheme. People Magazine reported the wedding party included eight bridesmaids and seven groomsmen. The Daily Mail caught glimpses of the bridesmaids and groomsmen wearing blue tuxedos and champagne colored dresses.

Biles wore a dazzling, ornate, lace wedding gown down the aisle with her father, Ronald Biles. Her hair, that has been scrutinized in the past by internet trolls, was filled with soft curls. She added a mid length veil to top off the look. Biles and Vogue Weddings shared behind the scene footage from the gymnasts dress fitting the day before her wedding. Owens stuck with a neutral look again, wearing a beige tuxedo and bowtie.

The couples altar was decorated with green and white flowers. After sharing their vows, they kissed and embraced each other.

Wedding guests celebrated Owen and Biles love affair while wearing white. They showered the couple with congratulations, tequila shots, and lots of hugs.

The post Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens Get Married (Again) in Cabo appeared first on 21Ninety.
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Simu Liu has slammed an op-ed published by HuffPost for suggesting he was hired as the "token" Asian actor in the upcoming movie "Barbie."

In the article titled We Love Simu Liu, But Hes Not The Only Talented Asian Thirst Trap In Hollywood, writer Ian Kumamoto wrote that Asian Twitter collectively scratched its head over Liu's casting in the movie.

Dont get us wrong  we love Liu and were all for an Asian king thriving. But when a single actor appears to be getting the bulk of Asian male roles in Hollywood, it starts to feel a little less like representation and a lot more like tokenism. All we're saying is, we don't want a predominantly white Hollywood to gatekeep sexy Asian male representation like it has for decades when there are so many other attractive and talented Asian men who deserve to be seen and appreciated by the general public.

To prove his point, Kumamoto even listed seven other Asian actors who could have played the role of Ken in the film, including Manny Jacinto of The Good Place, Ludi Lin of Mortal Kombat and Steven Yeun.

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Liu, who plays one of the several variations of Ken in "Barbie," commented on the Facebook post linking to the article to call out the suggestion that he was monopolizing the Asian male roles.

Way to attempt to put us against one another. What 'bulk' of roles are you referring to? Are there movies I'm in that I'm not aware of? Do you really think that there is a quota of 'Asian male roles' that is a zero-sum game? Everything I have taken post Shang-Chi was not written Asian. We've been able to reshape stories to get more representation onscreen. Get your facts straight. More from NextShark: The feminist femmes fatales of upcoming Pakistani noir thriller web series 'Qatil Haseenaon Ke Naam'

Many of the commenters supported Liu, noting that the article could have addressed the issue of the lack of Asian representation without singling out one actor.

"How disrespectful," one user wrote. "Just because you're seeing more Asian representation doesn't mean all these roles for Asian people exist. Instead of writing an article pitting actors against one another, try writing an article addressing the issue at hand- not enough roles in TV and Film are written for Asian people. Period."

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"Disappointing article," shared another. "You could have kept Simu out of it and still present your case for more roles that could and should be represented by Asian Kings and Princes. Celebrate Simu and let him be an example to present to Hollywood. Dont bring him down because of his great success. It makes no sense."

"Since when does actor equal thirst trap, whatever that means?" asked a commenter. "Rather than blaming Liu (which is an invalid blame), maybe discuss why there are so few Asian roles?"

Others pointed out that it was most likely the actors audition that won him the role to begin with.

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"Maybe his Ken role wasnt written as Asian, but Simu just did the best out of those who auditioned?" noted one user.

"While representation might be part of it, I would think that the decision is more around profit i.e. Simu Liu is a bankable actor and recognizable drawcard for the film," another chimed in.

The "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" star also posted a screenshot of his response on his Facebook page with the caption, The trashest take by HuffPo. Also, Im not a thirst trap. Im a f*cking actor.

"Barbie," which features Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in leading roles, is set to hit cinemas in the U.S. on July 21.
Former and current Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers will split a roughly $2 million settlement reached with the City of Charlotte.

Its all over a pledge fund. More than a thousand officers said they spent years -- some even decades -- paying into it with a promise theyd get a payment when they retired. But they sued when they never saw that money.

Channel 9s Hunter Saenz spoke with a retired officer who said hes still not happy about the outcome. Officers taking care of their brothers and sisters in blue was a good idea in theory, but when the money dried up, for some of them, so did their patience.

PREVIOUS: Retired CMPD officers sue over money they didn't get back from pledge fund

Its just not right, retired detective Keith Way said.

Way is still upset years after his retirement.

There is no happy ending here. Theres no riding off into the sunset, he said.

For 30 years, he was part of CMPDs Volunteer Pledge Fund.

The mission of the pledge fund was for your brothers and sisters to give you a one-time gift, he said.

According to court documents, during onboarding, an officer would decide if he or she wanted to join the pledge fund. Over the decades, thousands of officers joined in.

If an officer who was a part of the fund retired or passed away, the other officers who were members of the fund would pay two $5 donations to the retiring officer. Those donations were taken out of an officers two consecutive paychecks and that money would go right to the retiring officer or the officers family.

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Through his three decades on the force, Way said he paid more than $7,000 in donations to retired officers.

In 2017, Way was next in line to receive his one-time retirement gift. He said there were 1,100 members in the pledge fund at the time. His gift should have been roughly $11,000, but its money he said he never got.

I put in my time, I gave up holidays, nights, weekends, I worked through Hurricane Hugo, I worked through snow, he said. I did all these things and it was basically a slap in the face.

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This was something that people put their money in, Way added. Wheres my money? Thats the question -- wheres my money?

According to a class action lawsuit filed against the City of Charlotte, due to the increasing rate of retirements outpacing the amount of money coming into the fund, the ...fund had a substantial and ever increasing financial shortfall and was not sustainable.

Last month, the city settled for roughly $2 million. After attorneys and other fees, no officer got the amount of money they put in.

The lowest check given to an officer from the settlement was for $1.95 and the highest was $2,826.11. Way said he was given a check for $2,700 -- thousands less than he paid into the fund.

ALSO READ: Retired CMPD officer creates nonprofit inspired by acts of kindness during pandemic

Its past insult. Its almost like a stain on all of our careers, he said.

It just goes to show we were basically used for our abilities, then set out to pasture like we were an old mule that couldnt do the work anymore, Way said.

Current CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings was a deputy chief in 2019 and was over the pledge fund when it ceased.

In a statement, CMPD said, Chief Jennings contributed to the Police Pledge Fund through payroll deduction as a new employee from 1992 until the city stopped collecting these funds in 2019. The Chief presented the pledge fund issues to the city manager when he served as a deputy chief. Chief Jennings was unaware that he was a part of the class-action lawsuit, and he was unaware that he was going to receive a settlement check. On Wednesday of last week, the Chief received a check that was sent to his office for $2,500 after paying into the fund for approximately 27 years.

They did not comment further in regards to the settlement.

Saenz also reached out to the City of Charlotte. A representative did not get back to him before this article was published.

(WATCH BELOW: Officers bike to Washington D.C. in honor of fallen Shelby police officer)
A routine work trip turned into a nightmare when a hotel guest visiting from Texas awoke to a Hilton manager sucking his feet, he told Tennessee news outlets.

Now, the man accused of committing the assault early one morning at the Hilton Nashville Downtown has been arrested. News outlets didnt list attorney information for the man, identified as 52-year-old David Neal.

In response to McClatchy News request for comment, a Hilton spokesperson in an email said the Nashville Downtown property is independently run.

The safety and security of our guests and team members is our highest priority, the Nashville hotel wrote in a statement. We are working closely with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, and, as part of company policy, we do not comment on ongoing investigations.

The case dates to March 30, when a Texas man said he was visiting the hotel for work. At about 5 a.m., he was sleeping in his locked hotel room when Neal entered without knocking or announcing himself, the Rocky McElhaney Law Firm said in a lawsuit alleging negligence and invasion of privacy.

The guest said he woke up and discovered Neal sucking on his toes in a sexual manner. The guest later realized Neal had been in his room the previous day to fix a problem with a TV, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department told WZTV.

Police believe Neal made a key card to get into the guests room. He reportedly told officers he had gone inside because he smelled smoke, the TV station reported.

When you close your eyes, you feel like youre safe and youre protected and it was a complete violation, the hotel guest told WKRN. I was just so, so shocked.

Officials said Neal was fired from the hotel and arrested on May 5. He was charged with aggravated burglary and assault, police told WSMV and other news outlets.

The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department didnt immediately respond to McClatchy News requests for additional information on May 8.

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A family that fled Ukraine last year came to the United States in desperate need of answers  and a miracle. They feared their young daughter, 2-year-old Zlata Kuzmina, was completely deaf.

But all hope wasn't lost. When they settled in South Carolina, they met a hearing specialist who was able to help, and received an unexpected and precious gift: the gift of sound.

Diana Kuzmina and her husband Olech Kuzmin had dreamed of coming to the United States since their children  Zlata and her 6-year-old brother Filip  were born. But they said their visa application was denied repeatedly.

The despair of Ukraine's war with Russia eventually brought them here last year. In February 2022, Russia's invasion of Ukraine began and they were granted refugee status.

The trip from their home in Odessa, Ukraine, to the United States took nearly two months, with stays in Moldova, the Czech Republic, Poland and Germany. They left everything behind except what they could carry.

They came looking not just for a better life, but also for medical care for their daughter. The couple was concerned over their inability to communicate with her.

Zlata Kuzmina, Diana Kuzmina, Olech Kuzmin and Filip Kuzmin. / Credit: Sarah Pack/MUSC

The family settled in Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Olech Kuzmin landed a job at a nearby BMW plant, and the family says they were welcomed by the community, who wanted to help.

"A lot of people prayed for us and God sent us a very good team and a very nice doctor," said Diana Kuzmina, "and we are very thankful for this."

The "very nice" doctor was Dr. Teddy McRackan, a surgeon and cochlear implant specialist. It turns out his great grandparents fled persecution in Odessa a century before, although he said that's not what connected them.

"I think my personal connection was really more as a parent trying to do the best thing for their child, because I could only imagine if it were my child and, you know, they were in an extremely unfortunate situation," he said. "In the United States, every child should get screened for hearing loss as part of the routine workup before the child leaves the hospital. That doesn't exist in the Ukraine."

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He said it wasn't until Zlata was 6 or 7 months old that her mother realized there were issues related to her hearing.

"The workup started at that point and then  the war broke out," he said.

McRackan and his team at the Medical University of South Carolina confirmed the girl was deaf in her left ear, but they saw a glimmer of hope.

"We saw that she was responding at very, very loud levels to noise in that right ear," McRacken said.

For nearly two hours in mid-March, McRackan and his team surgically placed a cochlear implant in her ear in a procedure performed at the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital. An internal processor and receiver was inserted under the skin and muscle behind her right ear, and he created a path for an electrode that stimulates the auditory nerve.

Once activated, the stimulation of the auditory nerve sends signals to the brain, which then interpret them as sound for that ear.

Zlata Kuzmina / Credit: Sarah Pack/MUSC

But the surgery was no guarantee she would hear sound in her right ear. Still, McRackan said it would "give her the best chance possible when it comes to having a kind of auditory hearing."

The family waited a month for the incision to heal before the device could be turned on to determine if the procedure was a success.

It was.

When the device was turned on in April, Zlata could hear  an emotional moment for her parents.

While this doesn't cure Zlata of being deaf, she is able to hear with the device attached to her head and the implant.

Her mother hopes she will now be able to understand what her family says, and sings  "and I hope she will sing with us."

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Retired Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office detective Tim Sullivan kneels while paying his respects to Deptford Office Bobby Shisler, who died Sunday from injuries sustained in the line of duty March 10.

In the days to come, there will be flag-draped salutes and somber processions, mournful bagpipes and law enforcement officers from throughout the country descending on Deptford Township, all to pay tribute to Officer Robert "Bobby" Shisler.

But for now, said Mayor Paul Medany, it's mostly about the Shisler family, and enveloping them in love, support and care in their time of profound grief.

"For us as an administration and as a township, we are here to support the Shisler family," Medany said Monday, a day after Bobby Shisler, a 27-year-old officer, succumbed to injuries he sustained in the line of duty during a March 10 confrontation.

"In the coming week, everything is aimed at his family and our police officers, the men and women who worked with Bobby, who are still doing their jobs. We want to make sure they're OK. This is so difficult for them."

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Shisler's brother is one of those officers, Medany said. He has not been on duty since the shooting that left his brother critically injured and killed Mitchell Negron, 24, at the scene.

"He had been at the hospital with the rest of the family, every single day," the mayor said. "People are asking about memorials, and I get it, but this is about the family right now. We have to help them get through this. The support has been overwhelming, but our concentration right now is his family: his mom and dad, brother and sister, his grandparents."

Eduardo Ocasio, a Vineland police officer, and his children Amanda and Noah brought flowers to the Deptford Township Police Department to pay tribute to Officer Bobby Shisler, who died Sunday from injuries sustained in the line of duty March 10.

The details of the March 10 incident have not been made public and remain under investigation by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, as mandated by law when there is a shooting involving a law enforcement officer.

A honorable transfer for Shisler will take place Tuesday morning, with the officer's remains being taken from the Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office to Boucher Funeral Home.

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Law enforcement personnel are asked to meet at the Deptford Township Community Center (1219 Delsea Drive) at 8:30 a.m. Fire departments wishing to take part can muster at the Bowlero Bowling Alley on the 1300 block of Delsea Drive at 8:30 a.m.

Members of the community are asked to line Delsea Drive between Cooper Street and Herman Avenue after 9:45 a.m. Delsea Drive will be closed between Cooper and Brenner Drive for at least 45 minutes, the police department said in a statement.

On Monday, a steady stream of people came to the township municipal building, which also houses the police department. The building was draped with black bunting; its electronic sign outside just a blue line lit on a black background. Shisler's patrol car was parked in front, with people dropping bouquets, kneeling to pray and pay their respects and show gratitude for the lifelong township resident's sacrifice.

What happened: Here's the latest on man killed, officer shot in Deptford

Melanie Knott was one of them, holding a bouquet of blue flowers. So was Eduardo Ocasio, a Vineland police officer who stopped by with his two children, Amanda, 16, and Noah, 11, each carrying a fragrant arrangement of white lilies.

"I wanted to show support for a fellow officer," said Ocasio. "This is devastating, for this community and for all of us. This is not just about Deptford; it's devastating for all of us around the state."

Tom Sullivan, a retired chief of detectives with the Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office, wiped tears as he remembered Shisler as a "tremendous athlete" and "a hard-charger who gave everything in all he did."

"He was born and raised here," said Sullivan, who noted the Shisler family's deep roots in Deptford. "He died serving the community he loved. ... He was a true warrior who fought for two months, but in the end it was just too much."

Many of those who stopped by to pay tribute to Shisler wore black T-shirts with the Deptford Police Department logo and the officer's name on the front, and the phrase "We've got your six" on the back, a military reference to one's most vulnerable position.

Marie Snyder was one of them. She said Shisler was in the police academy with her daughter, "and Bobby was always very good to her." Snyder, a lifelong Deptford resident, said she knew the family and bought the shirt and a wristband with Shisler's name on it to support the family during the officer's nearly 2-month-long hospitalization, first at Cooper University Hospital and later at the University of Pennsylvania, where he died.

A lone bouquet sits outside the Deptford Township Police Department. Officers are mourning the loss of Bobby Shisler, who died Sunday from injuries sustained in the line of duty March 10.

"It's all the little things you don't think about, but you still have to pay for," she said. "We just wanted to support them."

John Baraniecki Jr. and his wife Tracy wanted to show their support as well. Owners of a Kensington pizza shop, they said they've noticed a lack of respect for police officers in the troubled Philadelphia neighborhood and elsewhere.

"They should be honored, respected and cherished," Baraniecki said.

Shisler, he said, "was so young, and he was just a guy doing his job."

"Bobby Shisler made the ultimate sacrifice," said Sullivan, the retired officer.

"For two months he was an inspiration to a lot of people. I just hope he realizes under these circumstances how many people he brought together, from the police community, the Deptford community, all of Gloucester County. That's his legacy, as tragic as it is."

Phaedra Trethan has been a reporter and editor in South Jersey since 2007 and has called the region home since 1971. Contact her at ptrethan@gannettnj.com, on Twitter @wordsbyPhaedra, or by phone at 856.486-2417.

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This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: How Deptford is paying tribute to fallen Officer Bobby Shisler
The southern African troop deployment will bolster an East African regional military force in eastern DR Congo that has so far failed to thwart the insurgency

Southern African countries on Monday agreed to deploy forces to help quell violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where armed groups have terrorised civilians for decades.

A special summit of the 16-bloc Southern African Development Community, which includes South Africa, Angola and Tanzania, backed the deployment "to restore peace and security in eastern DRC", SADC said in a statement from the Namibian capital Windhoek.

The decision was reached at talks attended by several heads of states, including DRC's Felix Tshisekedi, his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa, Tanzania's Samia Suluhu Hassan and ministers from the regional group.

The meeting did not give the numbers of troops to be deployed nor a timeline for the deployment.

Armed groups have plagued much of mineral-rich eastern DRC for three decades, a legacy of regional wars that flared in the 1990s and 2000s.

One militia, the M23, has captured swathes of territory in North Kivu since taking up arms in late 2021 after years of dormancy.

The rebel campaign has displaced over one million people, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Some troops from three SADC countries -- South Africa, Tanzania and Malawi -- have already been operating in eastern DRC since 2013 under the umbrella of the major a UN peacekeeping force MONUSCO.

"South Africa stands ready to contribute to the development of effective regional instruments that could assist to stabilise the current security situation prevailing in the eastern DRC," president Ramaphosa said in a statement.

- 'Immediate collective action' -

The deployment will also add to an East African regional military force that has taken over some areas previously occupied by the M23 since December but has so far failed to thwart the insurgency.

The East African Community (EAC) force draws on troops from Burundi, Kenya, Uganda and South Sudan.

There is a need for SADC to work together with the East African Community and other (regional groups) in order to better coordinate our efforts in support of government and people of the DRC," Namibian President Hage Geingob told the summit.

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SADC executive secretary Elias Magosi said: "We are regrettably noticing a very disturbing security situation in eastern DRC with the deterioration of the humanitarian situation due to the resurgence of the M23 rebellion and illegally armed groups."

Acts of violence intensified over the past year undermining the DRCs "sovereignty and integrity" as well as development prospects, as the country prepares for national elections in December, Magosi added.

"This calls for immediate collective action in support of the DRC to restore peace and security."

Tshisekedi is scheduled to visit Botswana, which houses the headquarters of SADC, for four days from Tuesday.

The DRC accuses its smaller central African neighbour Rwanda of backing the M23, something Rwanda has repeatedly denied.

But US and French officials, as well as United Nations experts, agree with the assessment.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged African leaders to redouble efforts to bring peace to conflict-wracked region.

Guterres addressed a meeting in Burundi of African nations that signed the 2013 accord to promote stability and security in DRC.

However, "Despite our collective efforts, more than 100 armed groups -- Congolese and foreign -- still operate today and thus threaten the stability of the entire Great Lakes region.

"It is time for the violence to stop. I reiterate my call to all armed groups -- lay down your arms, immediately," Guterres said.

ub-sn/bp
The Special Operations Forces, in conjunction with the Defence Forces of Ukraine, killed a Russian machine gun crew, which was conducting aimed fire, in the city of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast.

Source: press service of the Special Operations Forces of Ukraine

Quote: "A Russian machine gun crew, which was conducting aimed fire from a residential building in Bakhmut, has been killed.

This is another example of well-coordinated efforts between the operators of the Special Operations Forces of Ukraine and an M777 (an American-British 155 mm howitzer  ed.) crew.

We will keep working!"

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!






The temperature anomaly in Europe and North Africa from April 26 to April 28 in degrees C. World Weather Attribution

A hot spell in Southeast Asia has broken all-time heat records. It comes on the heels of a record-breaking heat wave in Southern Europe and North Africa that scientists say was almost impossible without climate change.

Temperatures in parts of Laos breached 110 degrees F (44.1 degrees C) Saturday, while Vietnam saw the mercury surpass 111 degrees F (43.5 degrees C), an all-time high for both countries. In April, temperatures in Thailand reached 114 degrees F (45.4 degrees C), a new record high.

Also in April, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Algeria saw severe heat more typical of late summer. In Portugal and Spain, temperatures reached 98 degrees F (36.9 degrees C) and 102 degrees F (38.8 degrees C), respectively, breaking their April records by a wide margin.

A rapid analysis from World Weather Attribution finds that climate change made the extreme spring heat in Europe and North Africa at least 100 times more likely. Temperatures were up to 6 degrees F (3.5 degrees C) higher than they would have been without climate change.

While Europe and North Africa have experienced heat waves increasingly frequently over the last years, the recent heat in the Western Mediterranean has been so extreme that it is also a rare event in todays warmer climate, authors wrote. The fact that extreme heat is increasing faster than climate models simulate is a known problem in summer in Western Europe, in all climate models, and is also found here.

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U.S. military's error found to lead to toxic firefighting foam spill at facility in Hawaii

Xinhua) 10:57, May 08, 2023

LOS ANGELES, May 5 (Xinhua) -- Delayed investigation document and video footage of a highly toxic firefighting foam spill at a military-owned facility in Hawaii were released by U.S. military officials on Friday, authenticating the contractor's failure.

A maintenance contractor hired by the Navy improperly installed an air vacuum valve to the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in April 2022. On Nov. 29, 2022, the contractor failed to disable the foam concentrate pumps from automatically starting prior to conducting fire suppression system testing, which caused the uncontrolled discharge, the military said in a statement.

The Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Hawaii, a giant military fuel storage facility, was operated by the U.S. Navy and designed to support U.S. military operations in the Pacific.

"The release of the Department of Defense's investigation and video of the November aqueous film forming foam spill is long overdue," said Deputy Director of Environmental Health Kathleen Ho.

The findings emphasize that the U.S. Department of Defense "must take ownership on a systemic level for operations at the Red Hill facility," she said, noting that the oversight over defueling, closure, and remediation of aquifer should be reinforced.

On Nov. 29, 2022, an estimated 1,300 gallons of aqueous film forming foam, which is used in firefighting and slow to degrade in the environment, spilled in the facility, triggering an ongoing water contamination crisis jeopardizing the nearby communities, and a large-scale cleanup effort.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Tourists visit the Drum Tower in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, May 1, 2023. Xi'an, a city with over 3,100 years of history, served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history. It is also home to the world-renowned Terracotta warriors created in the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC).

The Drum Tower was initially built in 1380 during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)
Dr Terrance Drew told the BBC he will take the question of making his country a republic to the people of St Kitts and Nevis

The Prime Minister of a Caribbean nation has told the BBC his country is "not totally free" as long as King Charles III remains head of state.

Dr Terrance Drew said that a public consultation on whether St Kitts and Nevis should become a republic would begin during his leadership.

He also said he would welcome an apology from the monarchy for its historic links to the slave trade.

Buckingham Palace told the BBC the King takes slavery "profoundly seriously".

Last month the Palace announced it was co-operating with an independent study into the relationship between the British monarchy and the transatlantic slave trade, when millions of African men, women and children were shipped to the Americas for use as slaves from the 16th to 19th Centuries.

Speaking to the BBC in the St Kitts and Nevis capital Basseterre, Dr Drew described the research as a positive move.

"I think that acknowledging that... something wrong was done, acknowledging it and apologising for it, is a step in the right direction," he said.

After being approached for comment, Buckingham Palace said the King previously pledged to deepen his understanding of slavery's impact. "That learning process has continued with vigour and determination since His Majesty's Accession," it read.

The statement also added that the monarch "has long acknowledged the discussion about constitutional arrangements", and referred to a speech to Commonwealth leaders last year when King Charles III said: "I want to say clearly, as I have said before, that each member's constitutional arrangement, as republic or monarchy, is purely a matter for each member country to decide."

Last year the Dutch government issued a formal apology for its role in the slave trade. Prime Minister Mark Rutte said slavery should be recognised as "a crime against humanity".

Brimstone Hill Fortress in St Kitts and Nevis was designed by the British but built by enslaved Africans in the 17th and 18th Centuries

St Kitts and Nevis were the first Caribbean islands that English colonisers permanently settled. Locals still refer to the dual island federation as the "mother colony".

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Built upon sugar and slavery, it's a legacy that lingers today. And if there is one place that illustrates St Kitts and Nevis' colonial past, it's Brimstone Hill Fortress.

Designed by the British starting in the 17th Century, it was built and maintained by enslaved Africans.

King Charles visited Brimstone Hill back in 2019. Local historian Leonard Stapleton also gave the monarch a tour of the island while he was visiting.

"It was very exciting," Leonard told the BBC. "I still feel proud, having been tasked with that important job."

The historian's respect and affection for the Royal Family are clear. But he's also aware that symbols matter.

While he said the Royal Family are "kind and genuine human beings" in person, the Crown "represents the same force that was behind the enslavement of Africans."

Leonard Stapleton believes it is time to update some of the language of governance in St Kitts and Nevis.

"One of the things that kind of irks us as a people is when our leaders are being sworn in, we still hear them swear allegiance to the King or the Queen and their heirs and successors," he said. "We definitely want to move to the point where we can swear allegiance to our own beliefs, our constitution."

But he remains hopeful. "I do believe that King Charles is going to do something positive about past injustices. I am very confident. As I've said, I've met him."

"I do believe that King Charles is going to do something positive about past injustices... I've met him", Source: Leonard Stapleton, Source description: Historian, Image: Leonard Stapleton

Both the King and the Prince of Wales have previously expressed personal sadness about slavery.

Speaking during a trip to Rwanda last year, then-Prince Charles said he could not describe "the depths of his personal sorrow" at the suffering caused by the slave trade.

Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew also spoke to the BBC about the issue of slavery reparations - meaning some form of compensation offered to the descendants of enslaved Africans, which could include formal apologies, cash payments to individuals, or cancellation of national debt for certain countries.

"We are not just speaking about a monetary contribution, because we are not acting like victims," he said.

"It is about real changes even within the systems that are still affecting people of African descent in negative ways."

During then-Prince Charles's royal visit to Barbados in 2021, Buckingham Palace said that the issue of reparations was a political matter for individual governments to address.

There is widespread support throughout the Caribbean for compensation for the descendants of enslaved Africans. A strong indication of that support was highlighted by a ten-point plan proposed by the Caricom Reparations Commission.

Caricom is an inter-governmental organisation of 15 member states including Barbados, Jamaica, the Bahamas and St Kitts and Nevis.

The main aim of the 10-point plan is to achieve reparatory justice for the descendants of enslaved Africans - including cash payments, development funding, and full, formal apologies. In 2014, it was unanimously approved by Caricom members.

UK cultural influence remains strong in St Kitts and Nevis, decades after independence

At times demands for reparations have been met with unease. A common point of contention for some is whether descendants of enslaved Africans should be compensated now, given slavery ended almost 200 years ago.

But those in favour point to the fact that slave owners were compensated, while the enslaved and their descendants were not.

In 2015 British taxpayers finished paying off the debt which the government incurred to compensate British slave owners after abolition in 1833.

In recent years, royal tours to Caribbean countries have also intensified the debate around reparations. The day before the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived in the Bahamas in March 2022, the National Reparations Committee in the Bahamas released a letter calling for Britain to pay reparations for the slave trade.

Niambi Hall-Campbell Dean is the committee's chair and a psychologist. She also welcomes the news that King Charles is supporting a study into the Royal Family's links to the slave trade.

But she thinks that "the information that we all know is enough for the Crown to make a full and formal apology, rather than the statement of regret that we have come to be familiar with."

"In the Bahamas, and the Caribbean, slavery ended, and colonisation came in. We went from being enslaved to [being] British citizens," she told the BBC.

"So we had to fill in those gaps, fill in those spaces with the culture of someone that was different from us, and the culture of someone that enslaved us."

"The perpetrator requires healing... You can't commit a crime and keep it a secret", Source: Niambi Hall-Campbell Dean, Source description: Bahamas National Reparations Committee chair, Image:

For Niambi, reparations are about justice, saying sorry, but also about donating money - to public health programmes, national debt, and historical research.

Her views are not shared by the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. In April Mr Sunak refused to formally apologise for the UK's historic role in the slave trade, telling the House of Commons, "trying to unpick our history is not the right way forward".

But Niambi believes reparations are important for the descendants of both slave owners and enslaved Africans.

"The perpetrator requires healing," she said. "You can't commit a crime and just keep it a secret, and think that secret will not affect how you live your life."

Each time Britain's links to the slave trade come back under the spotlight, the debate around reparations intensifies.

But reaching a general consensus of agreement regarding any next steps appears to be a long way off.
Starbucks said it will charge $1 for customized Refreshers with no water. Paige DiFiore

Starbucks told Insider it will charge customers $1 for Refresher drinks requested with no water.

Three baristas said they are concerned about the change, which takes effect Tuesday.

The change doesn't impact requests for low or no ice, as some social media posts have speculated.

Starbucks will soon start charging customers extra for a specific customization on one of its popular drinks.

Starting May 9, Starbucks will charge $1 to customers who request no water in Refreshers, a company spokesperson told Insider. Refreshers are beverages made of juice and green tea that have been on Starbucks' menu for about a decade.

A Starbucks spokesperson said the customization requires more Refresher base, and the price increase accounts for the additional product.

"This change allows us to provide a more consistent approach to customization, similar to other beverage customizations such as an adding an espresso shot or syrup, which incur an additional charge," the spokesperson said.

Speculation and concerns about the new charge has sent some customers and baristas into a frenzy on social media. Some of the frenzy has been fueled, in part, by misinformation.

Some popular posts in a Starbucks Reddit forum speculated that Starbucks planned to start charging extra for Refresher requests with less or no ice. The Starbucks spokesperson said there will be no additional charge for less or no ice on refreshers, however. The change only impacts requests for no water.

Still, even small changes can irritate customers and employees.

Three Starbucks employees told Insider they were nervous about facing backlash from customers over the new charge. Their remarks echoed concerns shared in dozens of posts on social media.

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"As with other such changes, the responsibilities of informing customers will largely fall to partners in store," a Starbucks employee told Insider. The employee asked for anonymity due to fear of repercussions. His identity is known to Insider.

In the past, when Starbucks discontinued syrups or changed how customers earned Starbucks Star rewards, some employees have said they faced angry customers.

Do you work at Starbucks or order your Refreshers with no water? Contact Gloria Dawson via the encrypted messaging app Signal (+1-516-721-6598) or email (gdawson@insider.com). Check out Insider's source guide for other tips on sharing information securely.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In the sequel to the hit "Book Club," the women of "Book Club: The Next Chapter" take to Italy, stopping in Rome, Venice and Florence and, according to the cast, eating gelato at each stop along the way.

If they reunite for a third movie, star Candice Bergen already knows where she wants to go.

"Burning Man," Bergen tells TODAY.com, seated next to co-stars Jane Fonda and Mary Steenburgen.

Mary Steenburgen stars as Carol, Candice Bergen as Sharon, Diane Keaton as Diane and Jane Fonda as Vivian (Riccardo Ghilardi )

The movie, which follows four longtime friends  played by Bergen, Fonda, Steenburgen and Diane Keaton  who form a book club (but don't do all that much reading), has not been confirmed for a third installment.

However, if it is, there's reason to listen to Bergen. "She's the brilliant person who chose that the second movie would be in Italy," Steenburgen says.

Fonda recalls the conversation. "On a plane to Vegas to promote the first one, when we were hearing that this may become a hit, she said, 'If we do a sequel, we have to do it in Italy.'"

Facing a potential jaunt at Burning Man, the out-there festival that attracts tech bros and artists alike, Steenburgen calls Bergen's predictive powers "dangerous"  but she's not saying no. (Fonda, on her end, would rather stay home in California for the third one).

"I'll go anywhere that they go," Steenburgen says, which prompts Fonda and Bergen to start singing, "I'll go anywhere with you," the lyrics to the original song Steenburgen wrote for the credits of the movie.

All four stars' singing voices are featured in the movie. "They all sang it. It couldn't be anyone else. I didn't care how good they sounded. We just wanted to celebrate each other, and we did," Steenburgen says.

Steenburgen is an accomplished songwriter whose original song for "Wild Rose" was nominated for the Oscar for best song.

"All these movies have someone else singing," she says. "But I thought no, it has to be our voices. It has to be us singing."

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All three agree. What she has in common with her character, Steenburgen says, is the "delight" she has in her co-stars, whom she now calls her friends.

Mary Steenburgen stars as Carol, Candice Bergen as Sharon, Diane Keaton as Diane and Jane Fonda as Vivian (Riccardo Ghilardi / Riccardo Ghilardi )

Italy was the second chapter in their movie series, but based on the fun they had, not necessarily their last. "If we didn't enjoy this, we should be spanked," Steenburgen says.

"It was a pure pleasure," Bergen says.

Fonda was not as sold. "It was the heat wave," she says.

Steenburgen replies, "It was like child birth. I've forgotten everything negative about it."

Her husband, Ted Danson, joined her on the set, as did their 17-year-old dog Arthur (called Arturo). "He had a rebirth in Rome. He was suddenly a puppy, because everywhere he went, he smelled food," she says. "The same thing with us. We got very young, too."

Mary Steenburgen stars as Carol, Candice Bergen as Sharon, Diane Keaton as Diane and Jane Fonda as Vivian (Riccardo Ghilardi )

Look out for a cameo in which Danson appears carrying the dog. "If people want to see a little Easter egg, it's when we're in the vet. He's carrying Arthur out of a vet's office. Very few people have noticed it because he has a beard," she says.

They're down for a third movie. As for whether they would actually be in a book club together?

"Never," Bergen says. "I'd like to do anything with them because they're so fun to be with. But not a book club."

Steenburgen is more open-minded. "I have been in a book club before. If I was going to do it again, it would be with them," she says.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
It took one day riding along with a patrol cop to make Stoney Mathis want to be one.

Thirty-three years ago, the man just appointed Columbus interim police chief was a linebacker and defensive end on a championship college football team at Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, and was studying to become a college coach.

Then he chose an elective course in criminal justice that required accompanying a uniformed officer on patrol.

After I rode with that police officer, I changed my major: I wanted to be a police officer, Mathis, 54, said Monday during a news conference at the Public Safety Center. I saw how engaged that police officer was, and I decided thats the kind of cop I want to be.

As he temporarily takes charge of a troubled agency plagued by personnel losses pinned to low morale and poor leadership, he continues to emphasize engaging with the public and with the people who work for him.

Every time a police officer makes contact with a citizen, they either make a deposit or they make a withdrawal of respect that citizen has in law enforcement, he told Mondays gathering of officers, city leaders and press. My goal is to make deposits, make deposits, make deposits.

Stoney Mathis answers questions from the media Monday morning. Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson has appointed Chief Stoney Mathis as Interim police chief of the Columbus Police Department. 05/08/2023

That investment in public trust pays dividends, he added: So when somewhere around the country, somebody makes a withdrawal, I want the citizens of Columbus to say, Thats not my police department. Thats not how we do things.

He said he has seen news reports of the controversies here, where Columbus Council ousted the citys second Black police chief with a $400,000 severance agreement on April 6, and said he has encountered similar issues before.

Ex-Chief Freddie Blackmons supporters claimed he was subjected to racial discrimination. His detractors said his micromanagement and poor communications, among other issues, were driving off veteran officers the agency could not afford to lose.

Reading in the paper, you know theres a culture problem here in the Columbus Police Department, he said. It takes a little while to change the culture, but you can change the atmosphere very quickly, and thats my goal, to change the atmosphere.

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Hes not starting with big changes or a specific set of priorities, he said, but he does have an initial focus.

Im going to come in and raise the level of morale, thats my goal, Mathis said. Build relationships with the community, thats my second goal.... My management style is I manage by walking around.

The most rewarding thing

Mathis is expected to hold the job for about six months as the city searches for a permanent chief, Mayor Skip Henderson said. Mathis was recommended by the Association of the Georgia Chiefs of Police, whom Henderson consulted.

The city will continue to ask that association for guidance, but likely will bring on a search firm and hold community meetings as it seeks a new chief, the mayor said.

Mathis is not a candidate.

Hes not interested in a long-term, full-time job, said Henderson, who thought Mathis a promising interim because of his management style, saying he works through people, not around them.

Mathis acknowledged he is here short-term: Were going to try to do this as quickly as possible, without making any monumental changes. I want to make some slight tweaks in what were going here, because if the citizens have a perceived distrust of the police department, oftentimes perception is reality.

He got his formative experience with the Henry County Police Department, starting in 1995 and rising to the rank of deputy chief by 2010. He was appointed chief of the Chattahoochee Hills Police Department in 2016, and headed the Fairburn Police Department from 2018 to 2022, when the city reported a 52% reduction in its crime rate.

Fairburn had a population of about 20,000 people and a force of 50 officers, he said. Columbus has a population of around 210,000 and a budgeted police force of 488, though that recently dropped to fewer than 300.

The two cities have some common traits, such as a majority-Black population, Mathis said.

I was with the city of Fairburn for almost four years. Its 70-to-75% African-American, and I built a very stable, quality relationship with the community, and I plan on doing the same thing here in Columbus, he said.

In Henry County, he headed a patrol division of around 180 officers, and learned the value of regularly interacting with residents, he said. His community engagement efforts earned him an officer of the year award from the NAACP, he said, and he was promoted to deputy chief soon afterward.

He had 300 employees to oversee when he left Henry County to head the Chattahoochee Hills department, with 15 officers.

It just wasnt exciting enough for me, Mathis said. It didnt have enough community to address the crime.

But it had another benefit.

Asked for his most rewarding moment in law enforcement, since he chose that career decades ago on a ride-along in Oklahoma, he did not hesitate.

In 2017, the Chattahoochee chief was on another ride-along with a patrol officer called to a medical emergency.

Stoney Mathis, second from right, speaks with law enforcement officers Monday morning. 05/08/2023

The dispatch said, Its a lady having a baby, he recalled.

The patrol officer turned to his chief for reassurance.

We both looked deathly afraid, Mathis said.

A teenager flagged them to the house, where they rushed in and heard screams from a back room. They found one woman on the phone and the other giving birth, the babys head crowning.

I never watched it on YouTube; I didnt sleep in a Holiday Inn Express the night before, Mathis said of his naivete, but I said, Push! ... She pushed that little baby right out in my hands.

The womans mother, who was on the phone with 911, told him: Youve got to squeeze the nose and blow in the face, so he did. I heard the baby cry for the first time, the most rewarding thing Ive ever done in law enforcement.

The newborn was a boy, he said. They tied the umbilical cord with a shoe string, and gave the baby to the mother.

At 6-foot-3, Mathis still has the stature of a linebacker. He admits he no longer has the speed.

But he does not intend to move slowly in building trust with rank-and-file officers and the community they serve, in his new job, he said.

A lot of times, police officers will treat the citizens exactly the way theyre being treated by their supervisors, he said. So my goal is to have our supervisors treat our officers with the utmost respect, so that our police officers treat our citizens with the same respect. And I think it all starts with respect.
State Attorney Monique Worrell will host a full day summit Monday on how to improve violence prevention initiatives in Orange and Osceola counties.

Law enforcement and criminal justice leaders from across Central Florida will come together, to talk about ways to prevent crime.

Overall, the goal of the summit is to identify critical next steps that elected officials can take to reduce violence.

Read: State Attorney Worrell discusses work to build better cases with law enforcement

A closed-door session will take place Monday morning between the state attorney, public safety leaders, and policymakers to discuss opportunities for further prevention efforts in the area.

In the afternoon, elected officials, national experts in prevention research, and key community leaders will gather to discuss prevention strategies.

The event will also feature a lunchtime presentation by Everytown for Gun Safety, a gun violence prevention organization, on successful prevention strategies.

Watch: Worrell defends office, says shes being blamed for broken system

In the evening, there will be a public discussion where community members can share their concerns and priorities regarding violence prevention in the area.

This is all happening while Worrells been on the hot seat, accused of not being tough enough on crime and refusing to try several high-profile cases.

There were also talks of Gov. Ron DeSantis potentially suspending her, but that hasnt happened.

Watch: Few barriers stand in DeSantis way to remove state attorney

The event starts at 9:30 a.m. at Worrells downtown Orlando office.

Channel 9 will monitor the gathering and provide updates on Eyewitness News.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Authorities in Erie took a closer look at a State Street restaurant following two shootings over a week in late April.

A woman was wounded in one of the shootings, and two men are facing attempted homicide and other charges in the incidents.

City officials determined that the restaurant, Super Chicken Lounge, was also operating as a bottle club and dance club at 1015 State Street, in violation of city zoning rules.

Super Chicken Lounge is now closed.

City officials shuttered the space late last week, posting it as uninhabitable and unlawful for anyone to use or occupy it because of the zoning violation.

Andy Zimmerman, Erie's manager of code enforcement, said the violation was revealed after officials received information that alcohol was being served in the building and officials looked into the matter.

According to city officials, Super Chicken Lounge was licensed as an eating and drinking establishment. But bottle clubs and dance clubs are considered special exceptions under zoning rules and must have the approval of the city's Zoning Hearing Board, which the operators did not have, officials said.

The operators of Super Chicken were leasing the space from the building's owner, Zimmerman said Monday.

Representatives of Super Chicken could not be reached for comment Monday at two phone numbers associated with the business.

Erie officials shut down the Super Chicken Lounge at 1015 State St. for a zoning violation following two shootings in late April.

Shootings attract attention

Erie police said last week that they and the city's nuisance bar task force planned to take a closer look at the activities at Super Chicken following the two shootings.

The first happened shortly after 2 a.m. on April 23. Erie police reported after the incident a fight had reportedly broken out between some females when a 21-year-old woman who intervened was shot in the leg.

Two days after the shooting, city police detectives charged 30-year-old Tyler D. Magee with two counts of attempted homicide and other offenses in the incident. Magee, whose last known addresses were in Erie, remained at large Monday.

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More: Erie police investigating after woman shot during altercation at State Street business

According to information in Magee's criminal complaint, an Erie police officer who was on patrol heard a gunshot and saw two women running across State Street. One of the women was limping and got into a vehicle that took her to UPMC Hamot, according to investigators.

Police learned from a witness that she was involved in a fight with another female inside and outside of Super Chicken. The witness told police that as she chased after the other female and was running toward the southwest corner of 10th and State streets, she was pursued by Magee, who had a firearm, detectives wrote in the complaint.

The witness said she heard a gunshot and learned that the victim had been shot, according to police.

Detectives wrote in the complaint that they obtained surveillance video from the area that captured the shooting, and police identified Magee as the suspect from the video.

The second shooting, which did not injure anyone, was reported shortly before 1:30 a.m. on April 30.

Erie police accuse Yaphet M. Ettison, 50, of assaulting a man and firing two gunshots during a confrontation inside the establishment. The man who was assaulted went to the hospital for treatment of injuries, according to information in Ettison's criminal complaint.

More: Fight involving gunfire at downtown Erie restaurant and gathering spot leads to charges

Erie police charged Ettison with offenses, including three counts of attempted homicide. He is scheduled to appear in court for his preliminary hearing on June 23, according to his online court docket sheet.

Similar State Street business shuttered following homicide

Another State Street business that officials said was operating as a bottle club was shut down by the city four years ago, days after a man was fatally stabbed and two others were wounded during a fight there in April 2019.

The Culture, at 1023 State St., had a certificate of occupancy issued for a cyber cafe. It was closed by the city after officials determine that it was operating as a bottle club and did not have a new certificate of occupancy.

Erie police said after the closing that The Culture would not be able to obtain a certificate of occupancy to reopen as a bottle club because the location sat within 500 feet of a church. According to Erie's zoning ordinance, a bottle club must be at least 1,000 feet from the nearest property line of any residential district, church, school, other institution of learning or education, hospital, library, park or playground.

More: Erie zoning bans bottle club at homicide scene

Licensed bars are permitted in that area, but The Culture did not have a liquor license, authorities reported.

The Culture never reopened.

The Culture became the focus of the city's nuisance bar task force following a series of incidents at and around the establishment, including the fatal stabbing of James Allen Jr., 34, on April 27, 2019. No one has ever been charged in the killing.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Erie, PA business reportedly tied to shootings shut down over zoning
Walk into a bar and grill in Platte Woods  a 230-acre town straddling Interstate 29 just south of Barry Road  and youll smell it in the air right away: Businesses here dont have to provide a smoke-free environment. Thats no knock on any joint here that allows customers to light up. It has the legal right.

Kansas City, thankfully, has a public indoor smoking ban  but the measure doesnt go far enough to protect hospitality workers. In the regions largest city, casinos are exempt.

Under Missouris Clean Indoor Air Act, a workplace free of smoke should be the norm. Sadly, from small towns in Platte and Clay counties to Raytown and Blue Springs in Jackson County, thats not so throughout the metropolitan area. (In Raytown, business owners can even allow marijuana-smoking customers to blaze up, now that recreational cannabis is legal in the state.)

But there is hope. North of the river, Liberty, Kearney, Excelsior Springs and North Kansas City have long outlawed indoor public smoking, as have Independence, Lees Summit and other suburbs.

Platte Woods Mayor John Smedley says the potential loss of sales tax dollars a ban might bring is a real concern. With a population of fewer than 400, any loss of revenue could hurt, he told us. He supports leaving the decision to business owners.

But it doesnt have to be that way, public health advocates say. Patchwork smoking laws do more harm than good, they contend.

And casinos? Forget about it. On a daily basis, visitors place bets amid smoke-filled sections at Harrahs, Ballys, Ameristar, 7th Street and Hollywood casinos. And of course smoke doesnt stay out of the non-smoking side.

The people affected the most, studies say? If you guessed workers  with more than 27,000 jobs supported at the 13 casinos in Missouri and 11 in Kansas, according to the American Gaming Association  you would be correct. Theyre put at risk by exposure to secondhand smoke, which can cause myriad respiratory ailments for both adults and children, studies have shown.

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Through no fault of their own, nonsmokers  including children and the elderly  are at risk. Shouldnt that account for something? Hospitality workers must be fully protected from smoke in the workplace, advocates contend. We cant disagree. No one is immune from dangerous toxins and carcinogens in cigarette smoke.

In Missouri, public smoking bans are on the books in more than 30 municipalities, according to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit American Nonsmokers Rights Foundation. But no statewide provision exists. This confused system compromises the health of hospitality workers everywhere.

Among adults, the likelihood of heart disease, stroke or lung cancer increases when subjected to secondhand smoke, according to the American Cancer Society. Children are more susceptible to respiratory disease, ear infections, sudden infant death syndrome, severe asthma attacks and slowed lung growth. Each year, 11,000 people in Missouri die from tobacco-related illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Why are we broaching the subject now? Because more than a decade since the movement to ban smoking in public places began, casinos remain exempt.

Could that change in the near future? Perhaps. In Missouri, the St. Louis County Council is considering a smoke-free casino policy, a measure we hope gains enough public support to become a reality.

Of course, well-financed lobbyists tied to the tobacco and gaming industries are opposed to a casino smoking ban. Why wouldnt they be? On the table are potential lost profits, they believe.

But there are more than 1,000 nonsmoking casinos in the United States, including all those in Missouris neighbor Illinois. Giving tobacco the boot hasnt put the gaming industry out of business in those places. Theres reason to believe customers who currently stay off gambling floors because of the stale, sickly atmosphere might be willing to return and place their bets if they could breathe freely.

In the interest of public health, municipalities in the Kansas City area and throughout both states should clear the air. Its time for businesses to put public health first and ban smoking inside once and for all.
A clerk slipped and fell as she ran from a man who started stabbing her in a convenience store, according to Florida police.

The clerk was getting ready to stock shelves on May 8 at around 4:40 a.m. at a RaceTrac in Davenport when the man approached her from behind and started repeatedly stabbing her in the back and side, according to a post on the Davenport Police Department Facebook page.

She tried to run away but slipped and fell, the post says.

While she was on the ground, he continued to stab her several more times in the chest, according to the police department.

She was eventually able to fight him off, and he fled into woods nearby, the post says.

Other clerks in the store heard her screams but didnt see the attack, according to police. They gave her aid until emergency responders arrived and took her to a hospital.

She had nine stab wounds, the post says. The woman, who was not identified, was being treated at a hospital and was expected to survive.

Officers found the man in the wooded area and arrested him, according to the post.

Marc Caseaf Tucker, 29, is charged with attempted first-degree murder, according to police.

Information on the mans bond was not available in Polk County jail records.

This was simply an unprovoked, random attack for no apparent reason other than the suspect committing an evil act, Davenport Police Chief Steve Parker said in a statement. The fact that the store clerk resisted and fought her attacker certainly facilitated her survival.

Davenport is about 35 miles southwest of Orlando.

Family finds mom and 3 kids shot dead before deadly police standoff, Florida cops say

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By Lisa Richwine

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Ronald D. Moore started his television writing career in 1989 in a junior-level job on "Star Trek: The Next Generation" before he rose through the ranks to produce hits such as "Battlestar Galactica" and "Outlander."

That path to success is hard to find in today's Hollywood, Moore and other writers say, and is one reason the Writers Guild of America (WGA) called a strike that began May 2 and has shut down late-night television and threatens to undermine the crucial fall TV season.

"If I was starting today, it would be a much harder business than when I started my career," Moore, 58, said while picketing outside Comcast Corp's Universal Studios in Burbank, California.

How to train and support a new generation of writers is a sticking point in contract negotiations between the WGA, which represents 11,500 film and TV writers, and Hollywood's major studios. Both sides agree that changes brought by TV's streaming revolution have reduced opportunities to work on sets and see first-hand how television is made.

A decade ago when broadcast shows dominated television, seasons typically ran for 22 episodes. After one or two were written, filming would start and the writing team would go to the set to help with rewrites and production. Eventually, they could work their way up to running their own series.

Netflix Inc and other streaming services began crafting shorter series in "mini rooms" with fewer writers. For a streaming show, 10 to 12 episodes are written all at once, and many of the writers are dismissed before filming begins.

While reducing their potential pay, this system also "is limiting the experience levels of those writers," said John August, a member of the WGA negotiating team. "They're not going to learn how to make a show."

COLLABORATION WITH ACTORS

Writers often rework scripts during production, for various reasons. An outdoor scene, for example, could be moved inside because of bad weather, requiring changes, said "Boardwalk Empire" writer Cristine Chambers. Input from actors can lead to revisions.

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"Having the ability to talk to actors changes the script," Chambers said. "Suddenly I'm seeing something from (the actor's) point of view. It's a collaboration."

Hollywood studios made a proposal to help early-career scribes. They suggested having a showrunner identify a promising writer to bring to the set, similar to a Directors Guild of America program, according to a source with knowledge of the talks. The younger writer would be paid a stipend.

The WGA, however, is seeking a requirement for at least six TV writers per series, with half of them being employed throughout the production. To the studios, that requirement is impractical and could lead to writers being paid for months while waiting for filming to start.

"These proposals require the employment of writers whether they're needed for the creative process or not," said the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the group negotiating on behalf of Walt Disney Co, Universal, Netflix and other studios.

"It is in reality a hiring quota that is incompatible with the creative nature of our industry," the AMPTP added.

The studios have offered increases in wage and residual payments to address complaints that writers are working more and making less, and that compensation is not high enough for many writers to make a living wage in New York and Los Angeles.

The WGA is asking for larger pay raises than the studios have proposed and rewards for writers with more experience.

Now, half of all writers work at minimum salary levels, the WGA said. "The companies have turned the ladder of economic success for writers into a step stool," said Chris Keyser said, co-chair of the WGA negotiating committee.

On the picket lines, aspiring writers such as 25-year-old Carrie Smith have joined WGA members, hoping to help the Guild secure a deal with better terms to help them build a career.

"I want to be part of fighting for a better future," Smith said while holding a "Writers Guild of America On Strike" sign. "You can't climb a broken ladder."

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Editing by Mary Milliken and Diane Craft)
People who take long naps are at a greater likelihood of having metabolic syndromes like obesity and high blood pressure compared to those who do not take them, according to a new study.

Many people across the world have a tendency to take midday naps, but despite its potential to impact sleep quality and metabolic processes, the link between these siestas and health remains unclear, said researchers from Brigham and Womens Hospital in the US.

Researchers have sought to understand the link between lifestyle choices such as taking siestas and the effect they have on the bodys metabolic processes.

One such process is obesity, a growing concern that affects the health of over a billion people around the world. Fat accumulation in the body is also associated with how food is digested during metabolic processes.

And in the latest study, published recently in the journal Obesity, scientists have evaluated the link between siestas, their duration and obesity in over 3,000 adults from a Mediterranean population.

Participants who took naps of 30 minutes or longer were found more likely to have a higher body mass index, higher blood pressure and a cluster of other conditions linked to heart disease and diabetes compared to those without siestas.

However, in those who had short siestas, or power naps, this increased risk for obesity and other metabolic changes were not present.

Short nap-takers were less likely to have elevated blood pressure than those who took no siestas, according to the study.

Not all siestas are the same. The length of time, position of sleep, and other specific factors can affect the health outcomes of a nap, said senior author Marta Garaulet said in a statement.

In the research, scientists examined data from 3,275 adults in the Mediterranean population from the Spanish region of Murcia, including their baseline metabolic traits and additional information also collected regarding their naps and other lifestyle factors.

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The peoples data was then categorised into those with no siestas, shorter than 30 minutes and longer than 30 minutes.

Researchers found the long siesta-takers had a higher body mass index and were more likely to have metabolic syndromes than those who did not take such naps.

Compared to the no-siesta group, the long nap takers were also found to have higher values of fasting glucose levels and blood pressure.

Long siestas, researchers said, were associated with later nightly sleep timing and food timing.

This group also had increased energy intake at lunch and cigarette smoking, according to the study.

However, researchers cautioned that the findings are observational, adding that it may be possible that some factors could be a consequence of obesity itself and not siestas.

Scientists call for further research to assess whether short siestas are advantageous over a long one, particularly for people with habits such as having delayed meals and sleep schedules, or for those who smoke.

If future studies further substantiate the advantages of shorter siestas, I think that that could be the driving force behind the uncovering of optimal nap durations, and a cultural shift in the recognition of the long-term health effects and productivity increases that can amount from this lifestyle behavior, study co-author Frank Scheer said.
 Flash

This photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the scene of an Arab League (AL) extraordinary meeting held in Cairo, Egypt. [Photo/Xinhua]

Arab foreign ministers decided in an Arab League (AL) extraordinary meeting held in Cairo on Sunday to restore Syria's membership in the league after 12 years of suspension, said a final statement after the meeting.

The AL council meeting at the ministerial level decided to resume "the participation of delegations of the government of Syria in the meetings of the AL council and all its organizations and bodies as of May 7, 2023," read the statement issued by the pan-Arab organization.

The Arab foreign ministers also agreed on the necessity to intensify efforts "to help Syria out of its crisis."

They renewed their commitment to "preserving Syria's sovereignty, territorial unity, stability, and regional integrity based on the AL charter and its principles," according to the statement.

The foreign ministers also agreed to form a committee comprising Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, and the AL secretary-general to continue "direct dialogue with the Syrian government to reach a comprehensive solution to the Syrian crisis."

Restoring Syria's membership at the AL was the focus of last week's meeting between the foreign ministers of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, and Syria in Jordan's capital of Amman.

The talks in Amman were part of an initiative led by Jordan for an Arab normalization with Syria whose AL membership was suspended in 2011.

A similar ministerial meeting in mid-April was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, by Gulf Cooperation Council states, in addition to Jordan, Egypt and Iraq, to discuss Syria's situation.

A couple of days after the meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud paid a visit to Damascus, marking the first visit of a Saudi official to Syria in 12 years.
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) on Monday sent a letter to Alphabet, the parent company of Google and YouTube, urging full compliance with a subpoena requiring the production of unredacted documents pertaining to the companys communications with the executive branch.

In the letter, Jordan said the company released insufficient information, producing only 4,049 pages of material with key details redacted despite explicit instructions not to do so.

Alphabet has frustrated the Committees review of the responsive material by unilaterally redacting key information necessary to understand the context and content of the material, Jordan said in the letter.

These redactions do not appear to be based on any applicable privilege  because Alphabet has asserted none  and the Committee requires this material to be produced without redactions, he added.

Jordan said he expects Alphabet to submit all requested documents without redactions by May 22, including some that he believes are in the companys possession but havent been released.

Alphabet is one of several tech companies  including Amazon, Apple and Meta  the committee subpoenaed in February for reported collusion with the federal government  to suppress free speech.

In response to the subpoena, a Microsoft spokesperson said at the time, We have started producing documents, are engaged with the Committee, and committed to working in good faith.

Republican members of the committee have accused the tech companies of suppressing free speech by coordinating with the federal government to take down content.

The Hill has reached out to Alphabets counsel, Daniel Donovan, for comment.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Mayor Eric Adams in Queens, May 4, 2023. (Hiroko Masuike/The New York Times)

With New York City struggling to cope with a continuing influx of migrants seeking asylum, Mayor Eric Adams on Friday announced a new strategy: The city would begin paying for shelter at two suburban locations outside the five boroughs.

It took less than a day for the plan to hit a wall. Officials in one of the two counties strongly rejected the citys relocation efforts and declared a state of emergency to thwart the attempt.

The escalation marks one of the first challenges to Adams so-called decompression strategy to ease the burden of housing the citys growing number of asylum-seekers, at a time when thousands more are soon expected to seek refuge in New York as a pandemic-era border policy is set to expire.

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The city intended to house about 300 men in two hotels in Rockland and Orange counties, north of New York City, providing up to four months of shelter, food and medical services.

Although Adams said that he had consulted with the state and with local officials, at least two said they were caught off guard and vowed to fight the plan.

It felt like they were trying to do a Friday night drop, said Teresa Kenny, the town supervisor of Orangetown, who said she learned about the plan only hours before Adams announced the move. I feel like the mayor called me to check a box so he couldnt be criticized for not talking to us.

The Rockland County executive, Ed Day, said he was stunned by Adams plan, and moved quickly to find a way to stop it. He issued the state of emergency order on Saturday, declaring that no municipality could transport or house migrants in Rockland without his permission.

Whatever we need to do to stop this, we will do, Day, a Republican, said in a phone interview on Sunday, adding that the county is prepared to issue fines of up to $2,000, per violation, per day, to any hotel that accepts asylum-seekers from the program. Theyre basically dumping them into a county where were not prepared for them, he said.

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It is unclear whether the declaration of a state of emergency will prevent New York City officials from arranging the transfer of migrants. New York City issued its own state of emergency in October, in a bid to marshal federal resources to help with the growing migrant population.

Rockland is the first county in the state, outside of New York City, to issue such an order to address the migrant crisis, said Stephen Acquario, the executive director of the New York State Association of Counties.

We need leadership here, because this is an area of unfamiliar, uncharted waters, he said, noting that the effort to prevent the transfer of migrants to Rockland is likely to have to be decided in court. The county also has a law that prohibits hotel guests from staying for more than 30 days at a time, which could present another challenge.

Acquario, who has spoken with representatives from several of the states counties outside the city since the plan was announced, said that he is sympathetic to New York Citys position, but that the problem requires greater cooperation between levels of government.

This is a homelessness problem, and its largely the fault of the federal government, he said. And here we have the lowest unit of government cleaning up the mess of the United States.

The shift in New York Citys strategy comes after Adams said in a statement on Friday that a vacuum of leadership at the federal level has necessitated a new decompression strategy, to share the burden of housing a growing number of asylum-seekers across municipalities. Over 60,800 migrants have arrived in New York City since last spring, according to city officials.

Those sent to Rockland and Orange counties would be volunteers taken from a pool of single-adult men already in the citys care, a city spokesman said.

Calls to the hotel in Rockland County, the 170-room Armoni Inn and Suites in Orangetown, were not answered. Piles of mattresses were stacked outside of the hotel on Friday afternoon, Kenny, the town supervisor, said, even though a wedding reception was being held at the building over the weekend.

An official in Orange County identified the other hotel as the Crossroads Hotel in Newburgh; a receptionist there declined to comment.

This came out of left field, said Steve Neuhaus, the Orange County executive, adding that Adams told him the Newburgh hotel would receive about 60 migrants.

Neuhaus, a Republican, also questioned how the county would handle the newcomers at the Newburgh hotel, which is on a commercial strip next to an ice-skating rink, a gym and not much else.

We are maxed out with the homeless in the county, he said, adding that he is also considering issuing a state of emergency to block the move.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
KHARTOUM (Reuters) -Sudanese are pinning their hopes on talks in Saudi Arabia between envoys of warring factions to end bloodshed that has killed hundreds and triggered a mass exodus, but there is no sign lasting relief will come anytime soon.

There has been no word on the progress of the talks which began on Saturday between the army and the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah.

The combatants have said they would try to tackle only a ceasefire and humanitarian issues like safe passage. Numerous ceasefires have been violated since conflict erupted on April 15.

Army chief Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan said on Monday the army was seeking a peaceful solution but that there could be discussions about a lasting settlement only "after we reach a permanent ceasefire in Khartoum."

"We believe the peaceful solution is the ideal route to handle this crisis," he said.

However, the sound of air strikes and clashes echoed anew across the capital Khartoum on Monday, witnesses said, and neither side has publicly signalled it is open to concessions.

"If the Jeddah negotiations fail to stop the war this would mean that we won't be able to return to our homes and our lives," said Tamader Ibrahim, a 35-year-old government employee in Bahri, across the Blue Nile river from Khartoum. "We're waiting on these negotiations because they're our only hope."

Mahjoub Salah, a 28-year-old doctor, said the areas of the capital hit by violence changed from day to day.

Salah witnessed heavy fighting and a neighbour getting shot in the abdomen in his central Khartoum district of Al Amarat last month, before renting a flat for his family in the south of the capital.

"We're still waiting for our passports to get issued, but we don't know how long this will take," Salah said. "Then our plan is to travel from Port Sudan to Saudi Arabia."

THOUSANDS PUSHING TO LEAVE

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The U.S.-Saudi initiative is the first serious attempt to end fighting that has turned parts of Khartoum into war zones, stymied an internationally backed plan to usher in civilian rule after years of unrest, and touched off a humanitarian crisis.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry said "pre-negotiation" talks were "in the expectation of reaching an effective short-term ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian assistance."

The U.S. State Department said it believed the sides had also discussed protecting civilians.

Talks on any more permanent settlement appear far off. "We are not for negotiation right now with (RSF chief) General Hemedti," Dafallah Alhaj, an envoy to the army chief Burhan, said in South Sudan on Monday.

However, analysts have advised caution on the outcome, noting the presence of hardliners in the delegations and recent RSF territorial gains that may dissuade the powerful militia from concessions now.

"Key domestic and international stakeholders are not there like Egypt and the UAE, who are the only ones so far who have proven that they can guarantee a ceasefire," said Kholood Khair, director of Confluence Advisory, a Sudanese think-tank.

"That no civilians are present recreates failings of previous political negotiations," she said, adding that African states that support civilian rule in Sudan were also not present.

United Nations aid chief Martin Griffiths is in Jeddah for the talks to engage on humanitarian issues in Sudan, but is not engaging directly with any of the warring parties, his spokesperson said.

The RSF released what it said was a video of Sudanese army soldiers who surrendered. As one of them started to speak, shooting could be heard in the background.

An army source said the men shown in the video were from a unit that performed ceremonial music at Khartoum's presidential palace where RSF guards had detained them at the outset of the fighting last month.

Thousands of people are seeking to leave from Port Sudan on boats to Saudi Arabia, paying for expensive commercial flights via Sudan's only working airport, or using evacuation flights.

Meanwhile, members of the Beja tribe, which has mobilised in support of the army in the past by closing off Port Sudan, staged a demonstration there pledging allegiance to the military.

Conflicts are not new to Sudan, a country that sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and the volatile Sahel region.

But most of them occurred in remote areas. This time intense fighting in Khartoum, one of Africa's biggest cities, has made the conflict far more alarming for Sudanese.

Since the fighting erupted, the U.N. refugee agency has registered more than 30,000 people crossing into South Sudan, more than 90% of them South Sudanese. The true number is likely much higher, it says. Aid agencies fear the influx will worsen an already dire humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, which won independence from Khartoum in 2011 after decades of civil war.

(Reporting by Khalid AbdelazizAdditional reporting by Aidan Lewis and Adam Makary in Cairo, Arshad Mohammed in Washington, Michelle Nichols in New York and Denis Elamu in JubaWriting by Michael Georgy and Angus McDowall; Editing by William Maclean, Mark Heinrich and Matthew Lewis)
By Maggie Michael

WADI HALFA, Sudan (Reuters) - After sleeping for a week under a tree in the backyard of a mosque in the Sudanese town of Wadi Halfa, Dalia Hassan is torn over whether she should cross the frontier into Egypt, or wait until her 18-year-old son gets a visa.

A few paces away in the hot, dusty, desert settlement, a family including three pregnant sisters and a grandmother with an oxygen cylinder take turns on rented beds as they await an Egyptian visa for Mohamed, who is 16.

Amid the waves of displacement caused by the war in Sudan, many of the country's well-off have fled the capital Khartoum and embarked on an expensive and gruelling road journey to the border with Egypt, 720 km (450 miles) to the north.

While women, children and the elderly can enter Egypt freely, though often after waiting days in testing conditions at a packed border, Sudanese men aged 16-50 must apply for visas.

The rule has led to a bottleneck in Wadi Halfa, 25 km south of the frontier and home to an Egyptian consulate, as businessmen, doctors and other well-to-do Sudanese pack hotels, schools and hospitals, and spill onto the streets.

"We left our house where we lived a good life. Look at us now," said Hassan, 40, who travelled with her son from the upscale Kafouri neighbourhood, just over the Blue Nile from central Khartoum.

"If he doesn't get the visa, we will have to go, but how can I leave an 18-year-old who has never traveled alone before?"

Abdel Qadir Abdullah, Sudan's consul in Aswan, said on Sunday that as of five days ago, 6,000 passports were awaiting visas in Wadi Halfa and that Egypt's foreign ministry had sent reinforcements to speed up the process.

The ministry said last week in response to questions about the border crossings that authorities had been working to facilitate evacuation of all nationalities from Sudan since the start of fighting, and to provide care for those crossing the frontier.

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LOOTING AND LAWLESSNESS

A power struggle between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that erupted into fighting on April 15 threatens to plunge the country into a protracted civil war and a deep humanitarian crisis.

It has stirred new unrest in Darfur in Sudan's west - where a conflict that escalated after 2003 has never been resolved - and has sparked clashes and attacks across the nation of 46 million.

But the fighting has mostly been focused on Khartoum and its sister cities of Bahri and Omdurman, all of which were largely spared during Sudan's previous wars, waged by the army and allied militias in remote regions.

For three weeks, millions of residents have cowered in their homes from air strikes, artillery battles, marauding fighters and lawlessness, many cut off from power and water and struggling to restock on food.

With Khartoum's airport shut, tens of thousands have fled by road to safer areas outside the capital, and across the country's borders.

At least 64,000 people have crossed into Egypt, according to government figures, already home to an estimated 4 million Sudanese and a country where many families have connections.

To do so they have crammed onto buses and trucks, paying as much as $500 each to be taken to the border posts of Arqeen to the west of Lake Nubia and Qustul just north of Wadi Halfa, and on to Egypt.

The sleepy, low-rise town, has become a vast waiting area for adult men seeking visas, and families who do not want to be separated from their kin.

'WOKE UP IN HORROR'

Many are still processing the trauma of the fighting that drove them from their homes.

Dania al-Nasri, 28, who is studying for a doctorate in engineering in London, said she spent 20 hours a day sheltering under her bed before leaving her home in Kafouri on April 30.

"We couldn't sleep at all, at all. When one day I slept for half an hour, I was startled with a massive explosion. I woke up in horror, crawling, and thinking, am I dead?" she said.

Bullets pierced the walls of her building, where 11 out of 12 apartments were empty by the time she left. She was stopped three times at RSF checkpoints and said she narrowly escaped an exchange of gunfire.

When she got to Wadi Halfa the bus driver, who had promised to take her to Egypt, dropped her off with her family and demanded more money.

"We had cars and we lived in good neighbourhoods," said Nasri, who had been planning to return to London at the end of last month to continue her studies before the war broke out.

"There are people who can't get out. Why do people die for lack of cash?"

Some of those with the means to escape have left homes and possessions at the mercy of looters.

Khaled Ibrahim, a businessman in his 30s, was already in Wadi Halfa when he watched CCTV footage on his mobile phone of fighters rampaging through his house in Omdurman, shooting off door locks and burning cheques worth millions of Sudanese pounds.

He went back to collect some belongings and found his dog shot dead. He returned to Wadi Halfa to apply for his visa but was told to wait, so he sent his elderly parents to Egypt alone.

"How would they live and find ways to live without me?" he said, as he marked time in a coffee shop across the street from the Sudanese passport office, which takes in the documents and passes them on to the Egyptian consulate for processing.

BLACK MARKET

Wadi Halfa's dirt roads are filled with long queues of buses dropping off travellers and picking up more.

The town's handful of cheap hotels are fully booked. Mosques, schools, parks, and hospitals are packed with large families who rent everything from beds to access to toilets.

A few teams of volunteers prepare meals and distribute water.

One day in late April, some of those applying for visas told Reuters the Egyptian consulate was no longer processing them because they had run out of visa stickers.

A black market for visas has also sprung up, with businessman Ibrahim and others saying applicants could pay $400 to fast-track the process.

Ahmed Abdel-Rahman, 28, an engineer, fled Omdurman with 14 relatives. Half the group continued on to Egypt while the rest settled in a school in Wadi Halfa, sleeping in a classroom with three other families.

Overwhelmed Egyptian consular officials showed little sympathy for their plight, he said. "They don't listen. They slam the door in your face."

Egypt's foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment on reports of a black market for visas, complaints about the behaviour of consular staff or visa stickers running out.

In another classroom at the school, an elderly businessman of Syrian origin, George Bashir Hana, said he had been waiting for a week for his son Jimmie to get a visa.

The school gave him and others a warning that they needed the classrooms back this week for end of year exams.

"I have nowhere to go but sleep in the buses parking lot," he said.

(Reporting by Maggie Michael; Editing by Aidan Lewis and David Clarke)
It seems like for much of spring so far, Tacoma and the rest of the south Puget Sound region have faced a continuous streak of overcast skies. Pierce County had vibrant, grab-your-hiking-boots levels of spring weather only intermittently in March and April. So far, May has been a mixed bag of clouds and sunshine.

But theres good weather news ahead for Tacomans.

The National Weather Service predicts that from Monday onward, temperatures will continue to rise toward the 70s. That trend will continue until during the latter half of the week. The weekend will cap off with potential mid-80-degree temperatures on Mothers Day Sunday.

This certainly seems like the upper end on the tier [of climatology], Jacob DeFlitch, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Seattle told The News Tribune.

Tacomas warming temperatures

DeFlitch says that Tacoma should expect to see partially cloudy skies in the coming days, especially during the mornings, but by Wednesday afternoon there should be nothing but sunshine and clear blue skies.

A few showers around the area today then dry for the rest of the week into next week. Mothers Day weekend looking hot with possible record highs Sunday (Seattle record on Sunday 88 in 2018). About 40% chance of getting into the 90s Sunday for Seattle, 50%+ for SW Interior. #wawx pic.twitter.com/JZzWiapa8g  NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle) May 8, 2023

The meteorologist explains that the air is gradually warming because eastbound winds are carrying dry and warm air from the Cascade mountain range over to the south Puget Sound region, in addition to other maritime activity.

How long will the warm weather last?

Days to look out for this week, DeFlitch says, are Wednesday and Thursday, which will see the mercury passing into 70-degree territory. He says the weeks overall highlight will be on Saturday and Sunday, when 80-degree temperatures will seem more like summer.

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The Mothers Day weekend heat will continue into early next week, DeFlitch adds. He says that temperatures will likely drop into the 70-degree range by mid-week next week.

While we're still several days out, confidence is increasing in a mid to late week warm up across W WA. Below are the chances of high temperatures reaching 80F or above next Saturday- May 13th. #wawx pic.twitter.com/6F9y66SdO2  NWS Seattle (@NWSSeattle) May 7, 2023

Tacoma temperature weather forecast

The following is a list of the current forecast temperatures for Tacoma per the NWS:

Monday 8th: High 63 ; Low 48

Tuesday 9th: High 63 ; Low 46

Wednesday 10th: High 68 ; Low 49

Thursday 11th: High 70 ; Low 51

Friday 12th: High 75 ; Low 55

Saturday 13th: High 81 ; Low 59

Sunday 14th: High 86; Low 62

Cold-water alert

Although many Tacomans and others in Pierce County will be eager to take a dip in the Puget Sound or other body of water during the hot weather, DeFlitch cautions residents to refrain from diving head first into the water. He notes that though the area will experience an influx of heat, the Puget Sound is still at temperatures in the high 40s and low 50s.

Washington State Parks defines cold water as any body of water below 70 degrees. The state agency states that cold water can be hazardous, or even deadly, because swimmers may experience:

Cold-water shock

Swim failure

Hypothermia
(Reuters) - Russian investigators on Monday charged a man suspected of carrying out a car bombing that wounded a prominent Russian nationalist writer with terrorist offences.

The writer, Zakhar Prilepin, an ardent supporter of Russia's military campaign in Ukraine, broke both legs in Saturday's attack. His close associate, who was in the car with him, was killed.

Alexander Permyakov was charged with committing a "terrorist act" and illegal handling of explosives, the Prosecutor General's Office said in a statement. A court in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region remanded him in custody for two months.

Russia's Foreign Ministry has accused Ukraine and the Western states backing it, particularly the United States, for the attack on Prilepin.

Ukraine's security services neither confirmed nor denied involvement. Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, said he believed Russian authorities had staged the attack.

The U.S. State Department has not commented on the incident.

Russia's state news agency TASS quoted security sources as saying the suspect was a "native of Ukraine" with a past conviction for robbery with violence.

Prilepin was the third prominent pro-war figure to be targeted by a bomb since Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Russia also blamed Ukraine for the deaths of journalist Darya Dugina and war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky in the two previous attacks. Kyiv has denied involvement.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Gareth Jones)
The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office named a suspect in the shooting of a deputy in the early morning of May 7 outside the Magistrate's Office in downtown Asheville.

The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office has named the man it says shot a deputy early May 7.

Ryan Ricky Houston, 40, has been charged with attempted first degree murder, assault inflicting serious bodily injury, two counts of assault on a law enforcement officer with a firearm and injury to personal property. The Sheriff's Office said in a news release that more charges are forthcoming.

More: Buncombe County Sheriff's deputy shot, APD officer injured outside downtown Asheville jail

The incident occurred around 1:40 a.m. May 7. A news release from the Sheriff's Office said a deputy was shot outside the Magistrate's Office and an Asheville Police Department officer sustained minor injuries.

The deputy has not been named, but the original release said they are "resting at home" after being released from the hospital.

The magistrates office is in the lobby of the Buncombe County Detention Facility, 20 Davidson Drive, just behind City Hall in downtown Asheville.

The release said the deputy had been securing warrants and assisting a woman with securing a protective order at the Magistrate's Office when the shooting occurred.

More: Buncombe Sheriff deputies to help Asheville police with downtown patrols

"The suspect involved in this incident walked into the lobby of the building. As the Deputy and an Officer from the Asheville Police Department approached the suspect to arrest him, the suspect resisted arrest and an altercation ensued," the release said.

"The suspect produced a firearm and shot the Deputy in the shoulder. The Deputy returned gunfire and struck the suspect, who subsequently fled the scene," the release said.

Houston was taken into custody outside Mission Hospital, where he remains.

"Thank you to our Deputy and the APD officer for their heroic actions which prevented harm to other individuals," Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller said in the May 8 release.

APD Deputy Chief James Baumstark echoed Miller's sentiments.

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"The Officer and Deputy's quick actions prevented others from harm," Baumstark said in the release. "This is just another example of the exemplary work that is done every day by law enforcement officers to keep our residents and visitors safe."

According to the release, the N.C. SBI is conducting a criminal investigation.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Suspect named in shooting of Buncombe sheriff's deputy in Asheville
The sails of the architectural masterpiece on Sydney Harbour are illuminated in colours for important occasions, such as the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022

A royal row has erupted in Australia over a decision to scrap the lighting-up of the Sydney Opera House in honour of King Charles III's coronation.

The sails of the architectural masterpiece on Sydney Harbour are illuminated in colours for important occasions ranging from WorldPride to the Ukraine invasion anniversary and the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

But for Saturday's coronation, the soaring curves of the emblematic 50-year-old building were left dark.

New South Wales state premier Chris Minns said he had cancelled his predecessors' plans to light up the building for Charles, who is Australia's head of state.

"I would like to keep it for Australia and Australians and moments of sacrifice and heroism for the country, or when there's an important international event in Sydney," Minns told a radio interviewer on Monday.

The premier said the building's sails had been illuminated 70 times last year -- compared with 23 times a decade earlier -- at an estimated cost of Aus$80,000-100,000 (US$54,000-67,000) for each occasion.

People had many places to mark the coronation including on television, he told Sydney's 2GB radio.

"The event was not taking place in Sydney, it was taking place in London," Minns said.

"Of course, I respect the new king but I am mindful of where and when we spend taxpayer money."

Minns became premier on March 25 after his Labor Party won the state elections.

- 'Republicanism by stealth' -

Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended the coronation, is an avowed republican whose government includes an assistant minister for the republic.

Royalists said republican sentiments were behind the decision to not turn on the Opera House lights.

"We are facing a campaign of republicanism by stealth in Australia by the current government despite the parading of the prime minister in London declaring his allegiance to the king," said Australian Monarchist League chair Philip Benwell.

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Benwell said community organisations such as the monarchist league would have raised money to switch on the lights if they had been consulted.

"There are a lot of monarchists who voted Labor at the last state election and they are now regretting having done so," he told AFP.

But the New South Wales premier said he would not apologise to those disappointed by his decision.

"I have got no interest in antagonising people that believe in the monarchy, people who are royalists -- of course not -- but obviously I have got to be careful about where I spend their money," he said.

Polls show many Australians want to get rid of the monarchy in favour of a republic.

But the republican question is taking second place to a referendum later this year on giving Indigenous people the constitutional right to be consulted about laws that affect them.

djw/arb/qan
BEIRUT/DAMASCUS (Reuters) - Syrian factions have given mixed reactions to an Arab League decision to lift the suspension on Syria's membership after more than a decade of isolation, underscoring the deep rifts cut into the country by years of bloodshed.

The decision on Sunday by foreign ministers of Arab League countries consolidates a regional push to normalise ties with President Bashar al-Assad, whose country was suspended from the body in 2011 following his crackdown against the opposition.

Since then, hundreds of thousands have died, millions have been displaced both internally and abroad and infrastructure has been ravaged by years of bombardment.

Readmitting Syria into the Arab League was a "shock" for Syrians and would "kill the political process", said Bader Jamous, the head of the opposition's negotiating team in stalled United Nations peace talks.

The opposition was for years backed by countries now supporting normalisation, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Writing on Twitter, Jamous said Assad's opponents had "not been consulted" about the Arab League decisions.

Swathes of northern Syria are still held by Turkey-backed rebel groups and protests against normalisation with Assad have flared up there in recent months.

The Syria Campaign, which campaigns for victims of rights abuses in Syria, said Sunday's move "sends a chilling message" and drilled "a final nail in the coffin of the hopes for freedom and democracy of the Arab Spring."

Others were more positive. The Syrian Democratic Council, the political body that governs the semi-autonomous regions of northeast Syria, said it "welcomed" the decision to lift Syria's suspension in a statement on Monday.

Some Syrian political activists with ties to the government - including former deputy prime minister Qadri Jamil - cautiously encouraged the move in an online statement.

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They said it allowed for a regional Arab role, which could lead to "a positive outcome within the Syrian file."

And a Facebook page publishing news from the campuses of various Syrian universities posted a stock photograph of Syria's seat at the Arab League with the caption: "After 12 years, the Arab League comes back to life."

(Reporting by Maya Gebeily in Beirut and Kinda Makieh in Damascus, Editing by William Maclean)
By Tom Perry

BEIRUT (Reuters) - President Bashar al-Assad always saw time as an ally in Syria's civil war, alongside the Russian and Iranian firepower he turned on his foes, sources familiar with his thinking say.

Now, as Arab states bring him back into the fold, the logic appears to have worked for him once again.

Assad could well be rubbing shoulders with Arab kings and presidents at a May 19 summit in Riyadh thanks to Syria's readmission to the Arab League, a big moment in his regional rehabilitation even as he continues to be shunned by the West.

It would have been unthinkable earlier in the conflict when Gulf Arab states swung behind rebels battling to oust Assad, and then U.S. President Donald Trump branded him an "animal" for using chemical weapons - an accusation he routinely denied.

He owes his survival in large part to Iran and Russia, which were always more committed to his survival than his adversaries in the West and Middle East were to seeing him toppled by rebels. Assad, 57, has outlasted many of the foreign officials who believed his demise was once imminent.

Now, geopolitical shifts in the Middle East have only strengthened Assad's hand as the region's most powerful states pursue entente over conflict, among them Assad's Shi'ite Islamist backers in Tehran and their Sunni rival Saudi Arabia.

"Syrian foreign policy is all about waiting for everyone else to come around to their position - just waiting and taking the punishment on the assumption their enemies will tire before they do. That has worked out for Bashar al-Assad - to an extent," said Aron Lund of Century International.

"But it's not like it is smooth sailing. Syria is such a broken place the sanctions aren't easily removed. I don't think this will be a game changer. But it does chip away at the isolation of the Assad regime."

Damascus has not yet said if Assad will attend the summit.

In exchange for ending Syria's isolation, Arab states want action, notably towards ending trafficking of the highly-addictive and lucrative amphetamine captagon across Syria's borders towards the Gulf.

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Top Syrian officials and relatives of Assad have been put on sanctions lists in recent months in the United States, United Kingdom and European Union over the trade, seen as a point of leverage for Assad in his regional contacts. Syria agreed to help end the trafficking at a May 1 meeting in Jordan.

SIEGE WARFARE

Shaped early on by war in Iraq and crisis in Lebanon, Assad's rule came to be defined by the civil war which spiralled out of the 2011 Arab Spring, when Syrians demanding democracy took to the streets, to be met with deadly force.

Assad saw the war as a foreign-backed conspiracy against a proud Arab state that opposed the U.S. and its Middle Eastern allies, especially Israel.

Helped by Russia's air force and Iran-backed militias, Assad clawed back the bulk of Syria in years of conflict, deploying siege warfare to recover areas such as eastern Ghouta - a tactic condemned as "medieval" by U.N. investigators.

The determination with which he set about crushing his enemies drew comparisons with the way his father - the late President Hafez al-Assad - had defeated insurgents in the 1980s.

Justifying his response, Assad compared himself to a surgeon cutting into a wound. "Do we say to him: 'your hands are covered in blood?' Or do we thank him for saving the patient?" he said in parliament in 2012.

Even in the early years of the conflict, as rebels seized town after town, he appeared confident of victory.

But while he took back most of Syria, swathes of the country remained outside state control, cities were flattened, the death toll topped more than 350,000 people, and a quarter or more of the population fled abroad.

Assad enjoyed the backing of those Syrians who believed he was saving their country from insurgents bent on replacing him with hardline Sunni Islamist rule.

As al Qaeda-inspired groups gained prominence in the insurgency, this fear resonated among minority groups, including the Alawite sect which formed the backbone of his rule over the Sunni majority country.

Critics accused Assad of fuelling sectarianism.

The war's sectarian edge was hardened by the arrival of Iran-backed Shi'ite fighters from across the Middle East to support Assad, spearheaded by Lebanon's Hezbollah, and as Sunni Muslim-led states Turkey, Qatar and Saudi Arabia backed rebels.

'RED LINES'

Assad's value to Iran was underscored by a senior Iranian official who declared in 2015 that his fate was a "red line".

While Iran stood by Assad, the United States failed to enforce its own "red line" - one set by President Barack Obama in 2012 against the use of chemical weapons.

U.N.-backed investigations have concluded the state used chemical weapons including sarin and chlorine.

The deadliest gas attack was on the rebel-held Ghouta in 2013. The attack with sarin gas killed hundreds of people but prompted no Western military response. The threat of a U.S. missile strike was averted when Moscow brokered a deal for Syria's chemical weapons to be destroyed by the following year.

But poison gas continued to hit rebel areas, marking some of the most extensive use of chemical weapons since the First World War. One such attack in 2017, also with sarin, prompted Trump to order a cruise missile attack.

Assad consistently denied accusations the state was to blame. He similarly denied the army had dropped barrel bombs - barrels packed with explosives that wound indiscriminately.

He also dismissed tens of thousands of photos showing brutal torture of people in government custody as part of a Qatar-funded plot. U.S. sanctions introduced in 2020 to ramp up pressure on Assad were named after the defector who smuggled the images out of Syria, code named "Caesar".

As fighting died down, Assad accused Syria's enemies of turning to economic warfare. But while Assad remained a pariah to the West, Arab states which once backed his opponents began opening doors to him.

(Additional reporting by Laila Bassam; Writing by Tom Perry, Editing by William Maclean)
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Photo taken on Nov. 14, 2022 shows the national flags of China and the United States in Bali, Indonesia. [Photo/Xinhua]

Relations between China and the U.S. are of great significance not only to both countries, but also to the world, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Monday.

He made the remarks when meeting with the U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns in Beijing.

Noting the consensus reached by the top leaders of China and the U.S. last November, Qin said that the hard-won positive development momentum between the two sides was destroyed by erroneous words and actions of the U.S.

As the agreed negotiations and cooperation agenda have been disrupted, it is imperative to stabilize China-U.S. relations and avoid a downward spiral and prevent accidents between the two countries, Qin said.

Expressing the principle of "mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation," Qin pointed out that China hopes that the U.S. side will move in the same direction with China to push China-U.S. relations out of the predicament and back on the right track.

The U.S. side should correct its perception of China, return to rationality, and achieve mutual success in the better development of each country, Qin said, adding that the U.S. should not talk about communication on the one hand, while constantly "suppressing and containing" China on the other.

Noting that the U.S. must respect China's bottom line, stop harming China's sovereignty, security and development interests, Qin reiterated that the U.S. should properly handle the Taiwan issue and stop continuing to "hollow out the one-China principle."

"We should push negotiations and talks on the back of mutual respect and equal benefit," he said, hoping that Ambassador Burns will make constructive efforts in China by having more contacts and more communication and being a bridge between China and the United States.
Floridas Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles suffered a statewide outage on Monday, leaving local tax collectors unable to process drivers license and motor vehicle transactions.

Spokesperson Molly Best said the department is currently experiencing an intermittent statewide issue affecting driver license and motor vehicle systems.

Best didnt know when the system would be back online, but Pasco Countys Tax Collector Office wrote on Twitter that the outage wasnt expected to be resolved on Monday.

The State DMV system is down statewide, the office wrote. We have been advised by the state that they do not believe services will be restored before the end of the day.

Local tax collectors, who process some driver license and motor vehicle services, reported longer wait times because of the issue.

Best did not identify the cause of the outage.
The army says it has brought around 23,000 people to safety after ethnic violence erupted in northeast Manipur state

Father-of-five S. Mamang Vaiphei hid in the jungle for three nights after a mob attacked his village in Manipur, the remote Indian state where ethnic violence has reportedly killed at least 54 people.

Around 23,000 people have fled the unrest which erupted last week in the hilly northeast state bordering Myanmar.

"The Meitei people first burnt down 26 or 27 houses," Mamang, now sleeping out in the open in an army camp with around 900 others bringing similar horror stories, told AFP.

"Then they came again and finished all 92 houses (in the village), ransacked the church, the school and whatever was left," the 54-year-old said, surrounded by exhausted and traumatised men, women and children.

The far-flung states of northeast India sandwiched between Bangladesh, China and Myanmar have long been a tinder box of tensions between different ethnic groups as well as a hotbed of separatism.

The latest clashes erupted last week between the majority Meitei people, who are mostly Hindu, living in and around the Manipur capital Imphal and the mainly Christian Kuki tribe of the hills.

The spark was a protest about plans to give the Meitei "Scheduled Tribe" status giving them, in a form of affirmative action, guaranteed quotas of government jobs and college admissions.

Violence erupted in Imphal and elsewhere with protestors setting fire to vehicles and buildings and according to villagers, Meitei mobs armed with guns and petrol cans then attacking Kuki settlements in the hills.

- 'Shoot-at-sight' -

The military has deployed thousands of troops, issued "shoot-at-sight" orders in "extreme cases", imposed curfews and cut the internet.

Mamang, spending his fifth night homeless on Sunday, is one of around 23,000 people that the military says it has brought to safety.

He said that on May 4 he fled his village of Kamuching, which had a population of more than 500 people before the unrest, when a "large crowd" starting attacking.

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"Everything was on fire... We ran away, all of us ran to the jungle and we try to survive," he said.

Mostly people only managed to grab a small bag with a few personal belongings, an extra pair of clothes or their smartphones.

In the absence of social media with the internet shutdown -- to curb disinformation, which could fuel further tensions -- others at the army camp had similar stories.

"Every one of us here, we're nervous, we're afraid of death," said Alun Vaiphei, 50, a Kuki tribal villager from Gotangkot.

"To save our lives, we contacted Assam Rifles, so that they rescued us from our place of hiding," he told AFP.

In and around Imphal on Sunday, life had come to a standstill, with businesses shut and deserted roads still littered with charred cars.

The violence has eased but Brigadier Sandeep Kapoor from the Indian army said on Sunday they still received "50 to 60 calls" for help.

His teams had rescued about 2,000 people - both Kukis and some Meitis - in the last 48 hours, he said.

- 'Nowhere to go' -

The army said that bringing people to safety was not easy given the polarisation and complete breakdown of dialogue between the communities.

"We can't move them in the open as there are chances that if members of the other community see them, when we cross their villages along the highway, they may get aggressive, another Indian army officer told AFP.

A few men, infants, older women and young girls were huddled inside three military trucks, including Leh Haokip, 35, from Gotangkot village.

He told AFP he saw the "looting of my home, the stealing of my cattle and the fire" from a distance.

"There was no police or state help and now we don't know what to do or where to go," he said.

bb/stu/mtp
Editors Note: The opinions expressed in the op-ed section are those of the authors and do not purport to reflect the views of the Kyiv Independent.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate, a Ukrainian branch of the Russian Orthodox Church and not to be confused with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, has been one of Russias most powerful soft power structures in Ukraine. Today, it serves as a toxic asset and a warning for other countries who host it.

Recently, Western and Ukrainian media, as well as Russian propaganda, have focused on the accusations against the clergy affiliated with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) for promoting and engaging in subversive activities against Ukraine.

Why has the Ukrainian government launched a wave of criminal investigations against the church, detained its leaders, and displayed a willingness to engage in conflict with one of the worlds most prominent religious groups?

There is a clear answer based on vast evidence.

The UOC-MP is a subversion tool of the Russian government and the notorious Federal Security Service (FSB). It maintains close ties with the Russian Orthodox Church and recognizes the Moscow Patriarchates authority. It is also essential to note that the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) was established in 1943 as a state tool to mobilize the population during the struggle against the Third Reich.

Everyone can now access once-secret Soviet documents that clearly indicate how the KGB (the FSBs direct predecessor) integrated its agents within the ROC. Until 1991, many high-ranking clerics studied at the Soviet Unions spiritual academies and were under KGB control. The head of the ROC, Patriarch Kirill, even served as a KGB agent in the 1970s.

It appears as though the Soviet Unions collapse has made no difference. Both official and independent investigations have shown how deeply Russian intelligence services have infiltrated the UOC-MP in Ukraine, which claims to have broken its ties with the Moscow Patriarchate.

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On April 7, Ukrainian journalists from Ukrainska Pravda published scans of documents from Russian state databases, confirming that at least 20 high-ranking personnel within the UOC-MP (including Metropolitan Onufriy, the head of the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church) hold Russian passports.

Investigative Stories from Ukraine: At least 20 Ukrainian priests of Moscow-affiliated church hold Russian passports, journalists find Welcome to Investigative Stories from Ukraine, the Kyiv Independents newsletter that walks you through the most prominent investigations of the past week. If you are fond of in-depth journalism that exposes war crimes, corruption and abuse of power across state organizations in Ukraine and beyond, Kyiv IndependentAnna Myroniuk

This investigation reveals only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the UOC-MP's involvement in Russian subversive operations, also known as active measures. For example, there have been instances of UOC-MP clergy participating in the activities of Russian proxies in Ukraines Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, which seek to undermine Ukraines territorial integrity and sovereignty.

After the start of Russias full-scale invasion, UOC-MP clergy were found to have distributed pro-Russian material, campaign leaflets of political parties banned in Ukraine, and Russian symbols.

Moreover, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) released part of a wiretapped phone conversation of Metropolitan Pavel, the abbot of the Kyiv Pevhersk Lavra and member of the UOC-MP, in which he appeared to rejoice over Russias occupation of Kherson and called Ukrainian forces bandits and criminals. Metropolitan Pavel was detained by Ukrainian authorities in April for allegedly inciting religious enmity and denying Russias armed aggression against Ukraine.

In April, Russia demanded the exchange of one UOC-MP priest detained by Ukraine for 28 Ukrainian soldiers, demonstrating the importance of the guise of religious organizations for forwarding the Kremlins foreign influence.

SBU finds Russian passports, propaganda at premises of Moscow-affiliated church The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) reported on Dec. 8 that it had found Russian passports, anti-Ukrainian propaganda, and a stolen collection of icons during searches at the premises of the Russian Orthodox Churchs Ukrainian branch. The searches were conducted at 13 Moscow-linked churches, mona Kyiv IndependentThaisa Semenova

However, Ukrainian society is learning fast. After a year of the war, a Democratic Initiatives Foundation (DIF) public opinion poll conducted in March 2023 indicated that over 66% of respondents think that the UOC-MP aided the full-scale Russian invasion.

In 2022, 52% of Ukrainians agreed that the UOC-MP helped facilitate Russian aggression. Indeed, when President Volodymyr Zelensky introduced legal sanctions against several high-ranking priests, the Ukrainian public welcomed the decision.

Moreover, the same study indicated that approximately 30% of surveyed UOC-MP parishioners approved sanctions against the clergy. Only 12% of Ukrainians as a whole considered the sanctions unacceptable.

Over the past year, few measures have been taken by the Ukrainian government against the UOC-MP. Criminal investigations have targeted priests who have been directly implicated in anti-state crimes, including by supporting occupying forces, providing intelligence to Russia, and engaging in corruption. Ukrainian authorities have not pursued the freezing of church assets. Few regional councils have imposed temporary suspensions on UOC-MP activities during martial law.

While Ukraines Culture Ministry did tell UOC-MP clergy to leave the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra in March, the Churchs right to use the cultural reserve was simply not extended after the contracts expiration. It created equal opportunities for believers of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church to pray at the Lavra in Ukrainian; the language used there long before the UOC-MP received the right to use it.

Still, the situation with the UOC-MP remains tense. Its leadership continues to defy calls from its believers to condemn Putin for his war of aggression and war crimes, which include mass killings, rape, and torture of its own parishioners. It denies that Patriarch Kirill is responsible for blessing the Russian army that bombs Ukrainian cities and UOC-MP churches.

It is likely that new legal investigations into the subversive activities of the UOC-MP against Ukraines national security will enforce the reassessment of the church. We can also argue that the Ukrainian public will learn a lesson in being cautious toward any form of indoctrination that demands total obedience to an unquestionable moral authority.
Members of Fort Worths Broadway Baptist Church Justice Committee have showed up to the Tarrant County Commissioners Court for months pleading with county leaders to request a Department of Justice investigation into the county jail following the 2019 death of Robert Miller.

No action has been taken. So the Justice Committee took matters into its own hands.

Broadways Justice Committee joined with United Fort Worth, ICE Out of Tarrant and the Texas A&M School of Law Legal Clinics to cosign a 39-page letter that will be sent to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland seeking an investigation into the conditions and safety of those incarcerated at the Tarrant County Jail.

The three groups are asking other community members to pen their name, too. The plan to send the request after May 31.

The groups claim the Tarrant County Jail violated inmates Eighth and 14th amendment rights that lead to preventable deaths and injuries, and that the jail fails to provide constitutionally adequate medical and mental health care.

The Eighth Amendment outlaws excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment. The 14th Amendment prohibits denying people life, liberty and property without due process.

The letter refers to the 2019 death of Miller, who died after he was pepper sprayed three times and didnt receive medical attention; the 2020 death of Ricky Farmer, who died after he did not receive needed medications; and the 2022 case of Kelly Masten, who went into a coma after 10 days at the jail, among other cases.

Since 2017, 52 people have died in the Tarrant County Jail, Sheriff Bill Waybourn said during an April press conference. That number of jail deaths in Tarrant County are comparable to those in Harris, Dallas and Bexar counties.

In February, the FBI opened a civil rights investigation into the deaths of two men at the Harris County Jail.

Instead of changing policy and practices in light of the deaths and other serious incidents, the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office has largely stayed the course, disavowing responsibility and culpability as a whole, avoiding independent medical review, and prosecuting only a handful of individuals involved in the most egregious incidents, the letter reads.

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Sara Zampierin, director of Texas A&M School of Laws Civil Rights Clinic, said all three groups have been raising concerns about the deaths, lack of transparency and lack of accountability at the jail for years.

Ultimately, we still see the same problems happening, Zampierin said.

The Rev. Ryon Price, lead pastor at Broadway Baptist Church, said they joined together because they believed the collective effort was necessary to enact change.

It has become evident to us that the Tarrant County Jails a threat to the safety of our community, Price said Monday.

The number of deaths at the jail alone is enough to Price to signify a problem. The shroud of secrecy surrounding Millers death is of utmost concern, he said.

Price said he and members of the Justice Committee have been stonewalled in their efforts to get county leaders to ask for a federal investigation.

We want to know, do they want to know the facts or did they just want to win a lawsuit? Price said.

He said the way the county was handling the case would not gain the trust of the public.

Isnt it the truth that really matters in the end? Price said.

Jonathan Guadian, a community organizer with ICE Out Of Tarrant, said Monday that efforts toward the investigation increased after the Fort Worth Star-Telegrams October 2022 investigation into Millers death as well as other stories about deaths in the jail.

Millers death had been ruled natural from a sickle cell crisis by a county pathologist. The Star-Telegram consulted with experts and members of Millers family and found he did not have the disease.

When the news came out that a promised third-party review into Millers death never happened, it increased the efforts.

We just figured that if thats not going to happen, then we have to act, Guadian said. Because if we dont, then the Commissioners Court is just going to allow this persons death to just go unchecked. Not only Robert Millers death, but you know, so many other people that have lost their lives within the jail.

Pamela Young with United Fort Worth said the letter was the next step after pursuing multiple channels to change jail conditions.

It is literally a life and death situation, Young said. And what makes it even more horrendous is that theres no accountability.

Young said it was a shame that activist groups were the ones having to take the initiative to request an investigation instead of county leaders.

Its a crying shame that the people who have been tasked with ensuring the safety of our community in these facilities are, again, refusing to do their jobs, Young said. I mean, theyre not advocating, theyre not using the tools at their disposal to do basic things to make sure that people are safe. Its baffling, like what is more important than making sure that people dont die in the jail?

Representatives for County Judge Tim OHare said he did not have time to immediately review the letter.

Representatives with the Tarrant County Sheriffs Office and the Justice Department did not immediately return requests for comment.
Taylor Swift's love songs are about universal ideas. But knowing Swift's dating history helps us understand the specifics: Her exes reportedly helped inspire some of the lyrics.

Throughout the singer songwriter's years in the spotlight, she's gone in and out of romantic relationships, some of which were memorialized in song form.

"I dont talk about my personal life in great detail. I write about it in my songs, and I feel like you can share enough about your life in your music to let people know what youre going through," Swift told Glamour in 2012.

She said she will "never" confirm who songs are about  but fans have turned guessing into a past time. The song "All Too Well," off "Red," is believed to be about Jake Gyllenhaal, whom Swift dated when she was 20 and he was 29. Now, Swift frequently sings about her boyfriend, Joe Alwyn, whom she's been dating since 2016 (See: "Lover," "London Boy").

But the era of Swift's dating life-inspiring-music may be reaching an end. Swift's recent albums, like "folklore" and "evermore," seem to center on fictional characters. Now, as the countdown nears for Swift's newest album "Midnights," people are wondering, "Who's she going to write about next?"

Read on for a brief refresh of Swift's dating history  and the songs her exes inspired.

Joe Jonas (2008)

Taylor Swift and Joe Jonas (Jeff Kravitz / FilmMagic)

Swift dated Joe Jonas for about three months in 2008.

Although short-lived, Swift said in an interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in 2008 that their relationship sparked inspiration for a song on her album Fearless. She told Ellen that when the couple started to go downhill, she booked a last-minute studio session to record the song Forever & Always."

During the interview with Ellen, Swift also went into the specifics of their breakup. According to Swift, Jonas broke up with her over the phone.

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When I find that person who is right for me, hell be wonderful, and when I look at that person, Im not even gonna be able to remember the boy who broke up with me over the phone in 25 seconds when I was 18, Swift said on the show.

While hosting Saturday Night Live in 2009, Swift mentioned her relationship with Jonas during her opening monologue.

You might think Id bring up Joe, that guy who broke up with me on the phone. But Im not going to mention him in my monologue song, she sang on SNL. Hey Joe! Im doing real well and Im hosting SNL  but Im not going to write about that in my monologue.

Lucas Till (2009)

Lucas Till (Alberto E. Rodriguez / Getty Images)

Lucas Till appeared in the music video for Swift's "You Belong With Me." Till told MTV in 2009 that they dated "for a little bit."

"There was no friction because we were too nice. We just really both liked each other  most relationships work out cause you get along and then you dont, and then you make up and its passionate, and with us, I really just liked her as a friend. Thats the only reason that didnt work out," he said.

Taylor Lautner (2009)

Taylor Swift and Taylor Lautner (Jean Baptiste Lacroix / WireImage)

While Swift and "Twilight" star Taylor Lautner dated, fans referred to the couple as "Taylor Squared." (Lautner is now engaged to another woman named Taylor).

Swift and Lautner first connected in the fall of 2009 while playing a couple in the romantic comedy "Valentine's Day," and broke up a few months after.

While brief, their relationship made it into a song. In 2016, during a Facebook Live Q&A, Lautner confirmed the song "Back to December" is about him.

In the song, Swift seems to express regret over the fallout of a relationship: "It turns out freedom aint nothin but missin you / Wishin Id realized what I had when you were mine."

John Mayer (2009 - 2010)

John Mayer and Taylor Swift (Bryan Bedder / Getty Images)

John Mayer and Swift met after collaborating on Mayers single Half of My Heart" in 2009, and were romantically involved afterward.

While neither of them has specified the details of their relationship, Mayer told Rolling Stones in 2012 that he believed Swift's song "Dear John" is about him.

In "Dear John," Swift points to a couple's age gap, which matches up with their relationship: She was 19 when she dated Mayer, who was 32. She sings, "Dont you think I was too young to be messed with?" and later, "Dear John, I see it all, now it was wrong / Dont you think nineteen is too young / To be played by your dark twisted games, when I loved you so?"

Speaking to Rolling Stone, Mayer called the song "humiliating."

It made me feel terrible. Because I didnt deserve it. Im pretty good at taking accountability now, and I never did anything to deserve that. It was a really lousy thing for her to do.

In an interview with Glamour in 2012, Swift said that it was presumptuous for Mayer to believe the song was about him. "I never disclose who my songs are about," Swift said to Glamour.

But when asked about the meaning of the song, which appeared on the best-selling 2010 album "Speak Now," Swift said the lyrics resonated with many people.

"I think that song really hit home with a lot of girls who had been through toxic relationships and had found their way to the other side of it," Swift said to Glamour. "Ive never looked out while singing a song during a concert to see so many girls crying."

Jake Gyllenhaal (2010)

Jake Gyllenhaal (Steve Granitz / WireImage)

Jake Gyllenhaal and Swift dated briefly in 2010. Since then, people have speculated whether or not Swift wrote the song "All Too Well," about their relationship.

When Swift released a 10-minute-long remake for her new "Red (Taylor's Version)" album in 2021, fans close-read lyrics for more proof of their connection to Gyllenhaal. They say alls well that ends well / but Im in a new hell every time / You double-cross my mind, Swift sings. You said if we had been closer in age / maybe it would have been fine / And that made me want to die.

In 2021, Gyllenhaal told Esquire that he doesn't think the song concerns him.

It has nothing to do with me. Its about her relationship with her fans, he told Esquire. It is her expression. Artists tap into personal experiences for inspiration, and I dont begrudge anyone that.

Although lyrics in the song reference moments in couple's relationship  including their age gap and going to Thanksgiving dinner at Gyllenhaal's sister Maggie's house  Swift has never confirmed that she wrote the song about him.

Conor Kennedy (2012)

Conor Kennedy attends the

Swift was linked to Conor Kennedy, Robert Kennedy's grandson, in the summer of 2012. When asked about their relationship by Glamour in 2012, Swift responded that she doesn't talk about her personal life in great detail.

But Kennedy's well-documented family inspired the song "Starlight" on the album "Red." Swift also told the Wall Street Journal in 2012 that she discovered a picture of Conor's grandparents, Ethel Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy, as teenagers in the 60's.

"It immediately made me think of like how much fun they must have had that night," Swift told the WSJ. "So I just kind of wrote that song from that place, not really knowing how they met or anything like that."

Harry Styles (2012 - 2013)

Taylor Swift and Harry Styles (David Krieger/Bauer-Griffin / GC Images)

Harry Styles, then performing with the boy band One Direction, met Swift at an award show in 2012, according to Rolling Stone. For their second date they went on a heavily photographed walk around Central Park.

Their relationship ended a few short months after, and the whirlwind romance has since been examined by members of Swift and Styles' fanbases. They speculate Swift's Out of the Woods and Style might be about him  among others.

Five years later, in 2017, Styles opened up about their relationship to Rolling Stone, and said he was surprised by photos of their date going viral.

"Relationships are hard, at any age. And adding in that you dont really understand exactly how it works when youre 18, trying to navigate all that stuff didnt make it easier," Styles said. "I mean, youre a little bit awkward to begin with. Youre on a date with someone you really like. It should be that simple, right? It was a learning experience for sure. But at the heart of it  I just wanted it to be a normal date.

As an artist himself, Styles said that he knows that musicians write songs about their personal experiences.

I write from my experiences; everyone does that. Im lucky if everything (we went through) helped create those songs," Styles said in the interview. "Thats what hits your heart. Thats the stuff thats hardest to say, and its the stuff I talk least about. Thats the part thats about the two people. Im never going to tell anybody everything.

Calvin Harris (2015 - 2016)

Taylor Swift and Calvin Harris (Kevin Mazur/BMA2015 / WireImage)

Following photographs of them together, Swift and DJ Calvin Harris went public at the 2015 Billboard Music Awards, kissing at the ceremony.

Around the time of their one-year anniversary, Swift called their relationship "magical."

Im just taking things as they come, Swift told Vogue. Im in a magical relationship right now. And of course I want it to be ours, and low-key this is the one thing thats been mine about my personal life.

They broke up a year in 2016. Following rumors, Harris said in a post on social media, "The only truth here is that a relationship came to an end (and) what remains is a huge amount of love and respect."

Tom Hiddleston (2016)

Tom Hiddleston (Anadolu Agency / Getty Images)

In June 2016, photos of Swift kissing Marvel star Tom Hiddleston on a beach near her Swifts Westerly, Rhode Island practically broke the internet. A month later, Hiddleston showed up at her annual 4th of July party wearing a tank top that read, I (heart) T.S" in red lettering.

Hiddleston confirmed the whirlwind relationship in July, telling the Hollywood Reporter that it was not, in fact, a publicity stunt.

"Well, um. How best to put this? The truth is that Taylor Swift and I are together and were very happy. Thanks for asking, he said. Thats the truth. Its not a publicity stunt.

They broke up in September.

Joe Alwyn (2016 - 2023)

Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn (Robert Kamau / GC Images)

Swift's most recent romantic partner was the actor Joe Alwyn. The couple dated from 2016 to 2023. News of their breakup reverberated among her fandom, as after this time, he became a part of her music.

In an interview with GQ, Alwyn shared details about the time the couple spent together during lockdown, including their experience writing music together.

Swift and Alwyn won a Grammy Award for six songs they co-wrote and produced during that time, which appeared on Swift's album "Folklore." He wrote under the pseudonym William Bowery.

It was really the most accidental thing to happen in lockdown. It wasnt like, Its 3 oclock, its time to write a song! It was just messing around on a piano and singing badly and being overheard and then thinking, you know, what if we tried to get to the end of it together? Alwyn said.

When asked his thoughts about engagement by The Wall Street Journal, Alwyn said, If I had a pound for every time I think Ive been told Ive been engaged, then Id have a lot of pound coins, he says. I mean, the truth is, if the answer was yes, I wouldnt say, and if the answer was no, I wouldnt say.

In 2022, Alwyn said is was "obviously happy" in his relationship.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The founders of EduOpenings didnt start out to build an app that could connect diverse job seekers with schools across the nation. But thats where the new company is headed after showing success in the St. Louis market and branching out to 10 states.

In a landscape of large-scale employment websites, EduOpenings offers an easy-to-use app focused specifically on education, designed to allow job seekers to promote their skills through resumes, videos and other media while giving employers direct access to a diverse group of candidates.

Marshaun Warren, director of human resources and director of diversity, equity and inclusion for the Belleville Township High School District, across the state line from St. Louis in Illinois, was drawn to EduOpenings because I recognized an opportunity to execute not only a wider search for candidates, but also a specialized search that focused specifically on school personnel.

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Having used recruiting platforms for nearly two decades, the inclusive architecture of EduOpenings also supports and encourages the engagement of diverse candidates, Warren says.

Related: Educators View: How My Ohio District is Recruiting and Retaining Black Teachers

EduOpeningss origin story isnt so much about creating a new business, but about two St. Louis education leaders working to solve problems in their own community. Founders Darryl Diggs, director of equity for the Special School District of St. Louis County, and Howard Fields, assistant superintendent of human resources in the St. Louis County School District, met at a leadership academy and discussed their experiences as Black men working in education. That connection led them to start The State of Black Educators Symposium, which provides networking opportunities.

Participants started asking Diggs and Fields to share job referrals with the group. It was nothing to get 20 to 30 emails a week with this organization just started, Fields says.

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When we first started, it was more so a reflective piece of our own upbringings and trying to find a job, Diggs says. There are some platforms still around that look the same as they did 20 years ago, if not 40 or 45 years ago. What would it look like to take an old system and put the power and ownness on the job seeker, giving you an amazing first impression through video or audio? We were thinking about our own 314 area code, the St. Louis region. [EduOpenings] has quickly grown and is now across the country in a variety of states and school districts.

With the founders connections in Black education, the effort began with a focus on diversity, and grew quickly. From St. Louis, the company expanded to serve the five largest school districts in Missouri, including about 90% of the St. Louis area. Then, Black educators in Chicago, Philadelphia and other major cities started joining.

Funding the year-old platform with no outside investment to date, Fields and Diggs made their first-ever pitch at the 2023 SXSW Edu Launch event.

There isnt a one-stop shop for educators interested in jobs all across the country, Fields says. From a vision standpoint, we would like to get there.

By focusing solely on education, he says, the posts live in a space where people find value. Diggs says it benefits both the job seeker and the employer and adds a focus on pushing jobs out on social media, building advertisements and helping school districts manage inquiries.

Imagine if you are able to jump on a site and see all of those who fit qualifications looking for a job all in one swoop, Diggs says. You can be a recruiter. You can see everyone on the site and go after them. It is different than any other space.

Related: We Need Black Teachers and the Breakout Hit Sitcom Abbott Elementary Shows Us Why

EduOpenings is unique because the vacancy postings are brief yet informative and attractive to view, Warren says. It is ideal for my situation because I do not have to input large amounts of information to utilize the platform. I can contact the team with the vacancy, and they take it from there. This helps tremendously when you work in a large district.

The service is attracting large and small districts alike. The larger ones can promote their openings to a greater, more diverse demographic as they try to keep up with a list of vacancies. The smaller districts use the platform to post their jobs to reach a wider audience. Site data allows employers to view how well their post performed and then make changes to gain more interest. For the job seeker, all posts are education-specific.

I know when my phone goes off with EduOpenings, it is a job I am interested in, Fields says.

The free service  add-ons come with a fee  continues to grow. What started around 100 job postings per month has grown to roughly 300, all without much promotion. Popular with K-12 districts, it also serves private and charter schools and higher education. Diggs and Field hope pitching the business at places such as SXSW will open the door to grants and funding, which could allow them to grow their team and push national.

We havent been paid a dime in terms of the work we have done, Fields says. That is not our why. We are trying to build something responsive.
(Getty Images)

Republican Senator Ted Cruz received a torrent of criticism after he tweeted his condolences after a mass shooting in Allen, Texas, killed eight people and left seven injured.

On Saturday, Mr Cruz tweeted his condolences and said he would be monitoring events unfolding after 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia opened fire at Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday afternoon.

Heidi and I are praying for the families of the victims of the horrific mall shooting in Allen, Texas, he tweeted out. We pray also for the broader Collin County community thats in shock from this tragedy.

My team is in contact with local officials, and I have offered whatever support is needed to do justice and help those in need.



Thank you to the incredible law enforcement who put a stop to the monster who committed this act of evil.  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) May 7, 2023

In response, many pointed out how Mr Cruz ardently opposes measures to curb gun violence.

David Hogg, a survivor of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, who has since become an outspoken advocate for gun control, criticised Mr Cruz.

Man if only there was something you could do to prevent these tragedies.  David Hogg  (@davidhogg111) May 7, 2023

Man if only there was something you could do to prevent these tragedies, he tweeted in response.

Shannon Watts, the founder of Moms Demand Action, tweeted how Mr Cruz supported regulation of industries other than guns.

After 16 people were killed in a hot air balloon in Lockhart, Cruz authored and passed legislation improving safety rules. After mass shootings, he only offers his prayers.



Thats not because laws don't work, but because there's no hot air balloon lobby funding his Senate seat. https://t.co/PMAovTVoy0  Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) May 7, 2023

After 16 people were killed in a hot air balloon in Lockhart, Cruz authored and passed legislation improving safety rules. After mass shootings, he only offers his prayers, she tweeted. Thats not because laws don't work, but because there's no hot air balloon lobby funding his Senate seat.

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In recent years, Mr Cruz has opposed measures to curb gun control, including last year when his fellow Senator from Texas John Cornyn engaged in bipartisan negotiations with Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Democratic Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Democrat-turned-Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. The legislation ultimately passed with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voting for it.

Last week, Democratic Representative Colin Allred announced he would challenge Mr Cruz in 2024. Mr Allred criticised the lack of action after the shooting.

Eight lives tragically cut short. As I grieve with my fellow Texans and pray for those who were injured, I won't accept that we are powerless to prevent this.



It's our responsibility as lawmakers to help make our communities safer. We must take common sense steps to save lives.  Colin Allred (@ColinAllredTX) May 7, 2023

Eight lives tragically cut short, he tweeted on Sunday. As I grieve with my fellow Texans and pray for those who were injured, I won't accept that we are powerless to prevent this. It's our responsibility as lawmakers to help make our communities safer. We must take common sense steps to save lives.
Three months after two men were gunned down near Southside Market in Stockton, a teenager believed to have pulled the trigger has been arrested  over 300 miles away, in San Bernardino County, police confirmed.

Iosua Sataua, 18, whose arrest the Stockton Police Department announced Thursday, was stopped late last month by the California Highway Patrol on Interstate 15, according to San Bernardino County inmate records.

San Bernardino County law enforcement allege Sataua is a gang member and was illegally carrying a gun despite having a prior felony conviction, records show. Sataua is in jail at a facility outside San Bernardino.

Stockton investigators will not comment on what might have brought Sataua to southern California, police spokesman David Scott said.

Stockton police believe that Sataua and a 16-year-old boy shot and killed Jacob Haywood Thomas, 29, and Andrea Lee Jones, 24, on March 4 near Southside Market.

Sataua has not yet been charged in San Joaquin County, a search of court records showed, and no evidence connecting him to the shooting has yet been presented in court.

San Joaquin County would need to extradite Sataua for an arraignment. It's possible San Bernardino law enforcement could drop charges and allow the 18-year-old to face the stiffer penalties that come with a murder charge.

The neighborhood around Airport Way and Eighth Street has seen multiple shootings this year: less than two weeks after the March 4 double homicide, a triple shooting near Van Buren Elementary School left two young men dead and a third injured.

Omar Rincon, 20, and Justin Schenk, 17, were killed, according to the county medical examiner's office.

A 16-year-old was also arrested following the March 4 double homicide, police stated Thursday. Law enforcement typically do not disclose the names of minors who are arrested.

Police have provided no information about possible motives in the homicides.

Sataua had a court appearance Monday at San Bernardino County court in Victorville, records show.

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A spokesperson for the county's district attorney did not respond to a call Monday morning about the results of his hearing.

Record reporter Aaron Leathley covers public safety. She can be reached at aleathley@recordnet.com or on Twitter @LeathleyAaron. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.

This article originally appeared on The Record: Teen arrested near San Bernardino after Stockton homicide
A Delaware teenager was sentenced Friday to nine years to life in state prison for the killing of a man in Yonkers nearly three years ago.

Maliki Johnson fatally shot Javon Merrill with a .38 caliber handgun outside the Triangle Deli on Ashburton Avenue on Oct. 27, 2020.

Westchester County Courthouse

Johnson was 15 at the time of the shooting. He fled the scene but discarded a sweatshirt that police found and the Westchester County forensics lab eventually linked to Johnson through DNA testing.

Shooting arrest: Two Yonkers residents accused of second-degree attempted murder in shooting of 14-year-old

Verdict: Man found guilty in fatal shooting of his romantic rival in Yonkers

He was arrested in Dover, Del., in early August 2021 by police there and the U.S. Marshals First State Fugitive Task Force. Johnson pleaded guilty to second-degree murder two months ago.

He was sentenced by Westchester County Judge Helen Blackwood in the youth part of criminal court, where he had faced a maximum sentence of 15 years to life.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Maliki Johnson sentenced in 2020 Yonkers shooting of Javon Merrill
Tennessee lawmakers will return to Nashville on Aug. 21 for a special session on potential gun reform legislation.

After speaking with members of the General Assembly, I am calling for a special session on August 21 to continue our important discussion about solutions to keep Tennessee communities safe and preserve the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens, Republican Gov. Bill Lee said in a statement announcing the special session.

There is broad agreement that action is needed, and in the weeks ahead, well continue to listen to Tennesseans and pursue thoughtful, practical measures that strengthen the safety of Tennesseans, preserve Second Amendment rights, prioritize due process protections, support law enforcement and address mental health.

In the final days of the legislative session that adjourned last month, Lee made an 11th-hour pitch for lawmakers to pass a limited extreme risk protection order law designed to keep firearms out of the hands of individuals who pose an immediate risk of harm to themselves or others.

Legislative push: Gov. Lee backs new gun-reform legislation in 11th-hour push

Lee's proposal would expand existing state code around gun dispossession, which courts can currently require of certain domestic violence cases. Some advocates have said lethal loopholes exist in the domestic violence law, which requires people to voluntarily turn over their firearms but doesn't have an enforcement mechanism.

Gov. Bill Lee responds to questions during a news conference Tuesday, April 11, 2023, in Nashville, Tenn. Lee held the news conference to talk about gun control legislation and an executive order to require information for background checks on gun purchases to be updated more rapidly. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Lee pushed for the legislation following the deadly Covenant school shooting and weeks of heated gun reform protests at the state Capitol. The governor had for weeks called for lawmakers to bring him potential gun reform legislation before floating his own proposal as Republican lawmakers accelerated the end of session after weeks of emotional protests and political missteps.

Republican leadership balked at the proposal, which some decried as a "red flag law." The House Republican Caucus released a statement calling red flag laws "a non-starter" in the lower chamber, though Lee maintains his proposed law is not a red flag law.

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Exclusive: Thousands of cases not yet linked in TBI background check system for gun purchases

Still, a wide range of bipartisan political polling indicates a large majority of Tennesseans agree with some additional gun reform, including a version of a red flag law and gun storage laws, which Democrats had proposed prior to the Covenant shooting but the Republican supermajority batted down.

Leadership suggested they needed more time to discuss potential proposals with stakeholders and the public, and lawmakers will now have the summer to to do so.

In calling the special session, Lee said he is seeking feedback from Tennesseans and opened up a website to solicit feedback.

Rep. Antonio Parkinson, D-Memphis, announced Monday he will host a town hall on May 9 to discuss the issue.

"At what point do we say, enough is enough?" Parkinson asked. "How many more times are we going to hear an offering of thoughts and prayers from politicians who have the power to make a difference but choose to turn a blind eye to the issues at hand?"

Reach Melissa Brown at mabrown@tennessean.com.

Public comment

Gov. Bill Lee is seeking the public's input on potential gun legislation. Go comment, go to https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/specialsession_public_safety

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee gun reform: Gov. Bill Lee calls special session for Aug. 21
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Monday announced that he would call lawmakers back to the state's Capitol on Aug. 21 for a special session after the Republican-led Legislature adjourned earlier this year without taking on gun control.

The announcement comes weeks after six people  including three young children  were killed in a Nashville school shooting. The tragedy sparked Lee, a Republican, to urge the General Assembly to pass legislation that would keep firearms away from people who could harm themselves or others. But instead, GOP leaders moved to quickly adjourn rather than take up the governor's request in the remaining days of an already chaotic session.

Within hours of the Legislature adjourning, Lee announced he would call a special session to take up the topic. However, outside of a date being selected, Lee's Monday announcement didn't include information on what specific proposals lawmakers will take up.

There is broad agreement that action is needed, and in the weeks ahead, well continue to listen to Tennesseans and pursue thoughtful, practical measures that strengthen the safety of Tennesseans, preserve Second Amendment rights, prioritize due process protections, support law enforcement and address mental health," Lee said in a statement, which did not include any reference to the Covenant school shooting or mention of firearms.

Lee has mounted a campaign for temporary mental health orders of protection" and has maintained that it is not a so-called red flag law, which he has described as a toxic political label.

To date, 19 states have red flag laws on the books  with many lawmakers enacting them after tragedies. Notably, Florida did so after the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland that killed 17 students. Law enforcement officials had received numerous complaints about the 19-year-old gunmans threatening statements.

In allowing courts to issue what are known as extreme risk protection orders, the laws are intended to temporarily remove guns  usually for up to a year  from people showing signs of potentially violent behavior. In many cases, family members or law enforcement must petition a court for an order.

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Under Lee's proposal, law enforcement would first determine if a person is a threat, then a hearing with the person in question would be held, generally within three to five days. A judge would rule whether they should indeed have their weapons taken away temporarily. If so, the person would have to surrender their guns and ammunition to a third party within two days and any handgun carry license would be suspended within three business days. The actions would last up to 180 days at a time.

Enough Republicans joined gun lobby groups in opposition to keep Lees proposal from coming to a vote in the waning days of the recent legislative session. It's unclear if lawmakers will be asked to advance this same proposal during the upcoming special session.

Without mentioning gun policy, a spokesperson for House Speaker Cameron Sexton said Monday that the Republican plans on meeting with people on a wide array of issues and policies and is awaiting word on what proposals the governor will include in the special session.

Meanwhile, some advocates for gun control reforms have argued that Lees proposed measure doesnt go far enough.
More than 1,000 people have contributed to a crowdfunding campaign that has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the surviving victim in the recent series of Davis stabbings, who was seriously injured after being stabbed May 1 inside her tent at a homeless encampment.

Kimberlee Guillory, 64, continues to recover at a hospital after undergoing surgery for multiple stab wounds.

Police say Guillory was stabbed through her tent at Second and L streets in Davis late Monday night, May 1, in the third and final attack during a series of stabbings that killed 50-year-old community figure David Henry Breaux and 20-year-old UC Davis student Karim Abou Najm, on April 27 and April 29, respectively.

Authorities arrested 21-year-old Carlos Reales Dominguez, a former UC Davis student, in connection with the three stabbings. Prosecutors charged him with attempted murder in connection with Guillorys stabbing, and murder in the deaths of Breaux and Abou Najm.

A verified GoFundMe campaign for Guillory launched late last week had raised $43,000 as of Monday morning across more than 1,100 donations. The page was established to support her medical expenses and assist her in finding permanent housing.

Guillory faces a long and difficult road to recovery, organizer Rose Hall wrote. One of the stabs punctured her kidney.

According to Hall, Guillory was experiencing homelessness after caring for her daughter, who recently died of pancreatic cancer at age 33.

Guillory was staying at a Davis encampment, near Second and L streets, while waiting for approval and availability at low-incoming housing. Hall wrote that Guillory had been unable to stay at a local homeless shelter because she has a dog.

Medical bills and expenses are likely to pile up, and we are hoping to raise funds to help ease her financial burden and allow her to focus on her recovery, as well as assist with helping her pay for a permanent residence, Hall wrote.
Veterans in decorated caps and students in their gold-embroidered FFA jackets joined a crowded meeting of the Merced County Board of Supervisors, where more than 100 people filled the stuffy room and spilled into the foyer and hallway.

After a Los Banos pastor offered a prayer and the crowd recited the Pledge of Allegiance, residents lined up to voice their concerns. So many people rose to speak that the public comment portion of the meeting exceeded the 30-minute time limit.

It was an unusually large turnout for the county body. But the April 25 meeting was an unusual experiment  one scheduled to start at 6 p.m. Like other county boards across the Central Valley, Merced Countys five supervisors normally meet during business hours, at 10 a.m. on a Tuesday, twice each month.

But many residents long have complained theyre unable to attend during the workday. So, bowing to requests from constituents, the supervisors decided to schedule two meetings this year after normal business hours.

Gloria Sandoval, a former high school counselor who now advocates for human rights in Merced, used her moment at the microphone to thank the Merced County supervisors for the evening meeting, declaring it democracy in action.

County boards of supervisors are the government body for people living not within city limits but in the scores of unincorporated towns and hamlets spotting the farmland. Across the San Joaquin Valley, thats nearly one third of residents, according to a PolicyLink analysis of 2000 Census data.

Besides its six incorporated cities, Merced County has 11 unincorporated communities ranging from Winton with nearly 12,000 people to the foothill community of Snelling with fewer than 250.

Most city councils in the Valley meet during evening hours to make it easier for residents to participate in their meetings. None of the eight county boards of supervisors regularly do so, although Stanislaus County is a bit of an exception with seven evening meetings scheduled this year.

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Constituents struggle to make day meetings

Daytime meetings are difficult for the working-class residents who make up the majority of Merced County, home to 290,000 residents whose median household income is around $58,000 and where one in five residents lives in poverty, U.S. Census data shows. For many, taking a day off from work would mean sacrificing a days wages.

Agriculture is one of the regions main employers. About 5,000 farm laborers toiled in Merced County fields in May 2021, the latest California employment figures show. In the first quarter of 2022, Merced farm workers earned an average between $31,000-$37,000 annually, only slightly higher than the federal poverty level, according to a report from the state Employment Development Department.

Zaray Ramirez, a policy advocate with Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, a land use policy advocacy organization, said many residents who suffered losses in recent flooding were unable to attend a recent 10 a.m. meeting set up for them to address their elected representatives.

The No. 1 thing that gets brought up is time, Ramirez said in an interview with CVJC. Since they (the meetings) are usually at 10 in the morning, folks work, and they dont find it as accessible to be able to go at that time to make those board of supervisors meetings.

Joseph Castillo, a resident who serves on an advisory council for the unincorporated community of Delhi, told CVJC he works in Modesto and cant attend county board meetings unless he takes a day off. Thats why Delhis municipal advisory council (MAC) meetings are in the evenings at 7 p.m., he said. The seven-member council makes recommendations to the county board for issues in their community.

The more community voices and involvement we get, the better, Castillo said. Our meetings are at 7 p.m. for that reason  to give people time to get out of work, even have a little bit of a dinner or bite to eat before they come to make their voices heard.

Merced County Supervisor Rodrigo Espinoza told CVJC he has always supported and advocated for more evening meetings.

I think it was a great meeting and the public participation showed that more evening meetings are warranted in the future, Espinoza said about the April 25 meeting. More than two a year. At least every other meeting should be in the evening.

The Institute for Local Government, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting good local governance, recommends choosing meeting times most convenient for the people who will be included. Regular public agency meetings offer an opportunity to increase public understanding and engagement, according to the institute.

David Snyder, executive director of the First Amendment Coalition, said people who work during the day could be shut out of daytime government meetings and having their voices heard by their representatives.

Better public access means, ultimately, better policy because the government bodies can better understand what the public that theyre serving thinks about the issues that theyre discussing, Snyder said.

Merced County supervisors said they encourage and want residents to show up and participate in meetings.

We work for them, and so we want to hear what they have to say, Supervisor Josh Pedrozo said.

Board chair Scott Silveira and Pedrozo previously served on the city councils for Los Banos and Merced, respectively. After serving both city and county residents, they both said people will show up to a meeting for hot-button items they care about regardless of the time.

The one thing about Merced and Merced County is that if people are passionate, theyll find time to either reach out to us individually, or theyll get in front of the public and say something, Pedrozo said.

Other obstacles: distance, language

The meeting time is just one of the obstacles residents face when it comes to accessing their elected representatives. Transportation and language translations are two others, Ramirez and Snyder both noted.

Typically, board meetings for the nearly 2,000-square-mile county are held in downtown Merced at the countys administration building. Thats at least a 40-minute drive from cities on the west side of the county, such as Los Banos and Gustine. Residents there must commit even more time to travel to a meeting, if they have access to a working vehicle in the first place.

Residents also complain about language accessibility, Ramirez said. According to U.S. Census data, nearly 53% of county residents speak a language other than English at home, with the most common languages being Spanish and Hmong.

Merced County board of supervisors meetings are conducted in English without regular translation services and only portions of the meeting agendas are published in Spanish. During the April 25 meeting, the only interpretation provided came during the public comment period when remarks made by Spanish-speaking residents were translated into English.

When the county does provide headset receivers for interpretation services, the devices often dont work correctly, Ramirez said. Sometimes residents also complain that the interpreters dont fully capture their comments, she said.

After a volunteer recognition ceremony during the April 25 meeting, residents filed out of the boardroom for a brief reception. Once the meeting reconvened, mostly only department directors dotted the previously filled seats while supervisors conducted county business for the next hour.

Ramirez said when she attends county board meetings during their regular time, many times she only sees county staff in the audience.

Silveira said conducting meetings in the evening ends up costing the county more in staff time. Plus, it can disrupt staff schedules because meetings require so much preparation.

When is the next night meeting?

The next evening Merced County Board of Supervisors meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12. Supervisors previously suggested having that meeting at the Merced County Courthouse Museum since it will be decorated for the holidays.

Were going to do another one and were going to try to see how to do this, Silveira said. One of the things that Im all about is doing peoples business in public.

This story was reported and edited by the Central Valley Journalism Collaborative, cvlocaljournalism.org , a nonprofit newsroom based in Merced.
By Ted Hesson and Mike Blake

SAN DIEGO (Reuters) -The Biden administration and Texas state government are sending reinforcements to the U.S.-Mexico border to prepare for a possible increase in illegal immigration when COVID-19 restrictions known as Title 42 are set to end on Thursday.

Hundreds of specialized investigative agents and air marshals from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are being pulled from day-to-day duties to help with border management, sources said, leading to pushback from some employees who argue they are being reassigned to menial tasks.

At the same time, Texas deployed a specially trained National Guard unit on Monday to target "hot spots" where migrants try to enter the United States illegally, Governor Greg Abbott said.

The moves are part of broader efforts by President Joe Biden, along with state and local officials, to prepare for the end of the Title 42 order on Thursday. The order, in place since 2020, allows U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants to Mexico without the chance to seek U.S. asylum.

The policy shift is expected to lead to a rise in border arrivals as a result of pent-up demand and the perception among migrants that they will be allowed into the country.

Near San Diego, California, on Monday, hundreds of migrants were waiting between two U.S. border fences as U.S. Customs and Border Protection appeared to struggle to process them, a Reuters witness said. Dozens reached through the fence asking for food at one point as volunteers brought peanut butter sandwiches, oranges and water.

"We don't know who is encouraging them. That is the million-dollar question. We think it might be the traffickers," said Enrique Lucero, director of migrant affairs for the city of Tijuana in Mexico.

Adriana Jasso, a human rights advocate for the American Friends Service Committee, said people who expected to be processed for asylum claims have instead been stuck at the border for days, exposed to the overnight cold.

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"We have situations of moms with babies," Jasso said. "There is uncertainty. There is anxiety."

TEXAS TACTICS

Abbott - a Republican who has criticized the Democratic president's approach to border security - said members of the new National Guard unit, the Texas Tactical Border Force, were being loaded onto Black Hawk helicopters for deployment and will have access to aircraft, boats, night vision equipment and riot gear.

In recent days, the National Guard suppressed migrant crossings at Brownsville, Abbott said at a news conference, the same city where a driver plowed into a group of migrants on Sunday.

Separately, Biden is sending 1,500 additional troops to help secure the border.

In addition, 250 to 300 agents with the investigative arm of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be detailed to aid border operations, two U.S. officials who requested anonymity to discuss internal operations said.

A separate official not authorized to speak publicly said the deployment "negatively impacts our ability to disrupt transnational criminal activity," since many of the agents work on complex cases dealing with illicit drugs, trafficking and other issues.

About 180 U.S. air marshals will be pulled from their jobs securing air travel to help at the border, said Sonya LaBosco, executive director of the Air Marshal National Council, which opposes the deployment.

Both ICE investigators and air marshals have been tapped in recent years for border management efforts, leading to some resistance. DHS and ICE did not respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson and Doina Chiacu in Washington, Mike Blake in San Diego and Lizbeth Diaz in Mexico City; Editing by Mica Rosenberg, Jonathan Oatis and Rosalba O'Brien)
By Brendan O'Brien and Tyler Clifford

(Reuters) - A Texas man accused of crashing his car into a group of pedestrians near a Brownsville homeless shelter housing migrants, killing eight people, has been charged with manslaughter and aggravated assault, police said on Monday.

The driver, identified as 34-year-old George Alvarez, ran a red light, lost control of his sports utility vehicle, and struck 18 people as the car flipped on its side, Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda said.

Alvarez attempted to flee but was held down by several bystanders, Sauceda said. Investigators were waiting for toxicology reports on Alvarez to determine if he was impaired at the time of the crash.

Police have not ruled out the possibility that the crash was intentional, Sauceda said.

Alvarez appeared briefly in court on Monday wearing a white jumpsuit, responding "yes, sir" to questions from a judge. He was ordered held on $3.6 million bail. Police said Alvarez has an extensive criminal history.

Investigators are working to identify the victims, some of whom were Venezuelan migrants.

"It has been a very tiresome process but we are deeply committed to doing and accomplishing," Sauceda said, adding that his department was working with the Venezuelan government and other embassies.

In a statement on Monday, the Venezuelan government called for an investigation to determine if the incident was motivated by hate or xenophobia.

Brownsville, a city of some 165,000 people on the U.S. border with Mexico, and other communities are bracing for a likely surge in migrants when a COVID-19 restriction known as Title 42 is set to end on Thursday.

Title 42, in place since 2020, allows U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants caught crossing the border illegally, without giving them the chance to seek U.S. asylum.

Reuters could not immediately determine whether Alvarez had retained a lawyer.

A video circulating online purporting to show the crash shows a speeding SUV plowing into a row of people sitting on a curb. A second video appears to show victims lying on the ground, some bloodied and writhing, others motionless.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the authenticity of the videos.

(Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago, Tyler Clifford in Washington and Dan Whitcomb in Los Angeles, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
Texas state Rep. Bryan Slaton, a far-right Republican who equated drag performers with groomers who sexualize children, resigned from office Monday after a state-led investigation found he engaged in a sexual relationship with his 19-year-old intern, plied her with alcohol and demanded her silence.

Slaton, who is 45 and married, turned in his resignation, effective immediately, one day before the Texas House was set to vote on expelling him and two days after the House General Investigative Committee released an explosive 16-page report on Slatons behavior  neither of which he mentioned in his letter of resignation to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R).

It has been an honor to represent my friends, neighbors and the great people and communities of House District 2, Slaton, a former pastor, wrote, adding that they voted overwhelmingly to send me to the Capitol.

Here is the resignation letter from Rep. Bryan Slaton.

He resigned from the Texas House today after an investigative panel found he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a 19-year-old woman on his staff. pic.twitter.com/ld7ABt2bbL  Bettie Cross (@BettieCrossTV) May 8, 2023

According to the five-person committees report, Slaton invited his 19-year-old intern over to his home on March 31, and she arrived with two other young women working as legislative aides at the Capitol, along with one of their boyfriends. While there, the intern said, Slaton kept refilling her drink with rum to the point that she was really dizzy and had split vision.

She declined to answer investigators questions about any sexual activity with Slaton, but according to the other women present that night, she later told them shed lost her virginity to Slaton after the rest of the group left and described the encounter in great detail, saying she was in love with him.

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Days later, according to the probes findings, Slaton hinted to the intern that it would be a problem if their relationship got out. He then said that everything would be fine but that everyone involved just has to stay quiet.

The intern, along with the 19- and 20-year-old aides whod joined her at his apartment, all filed complaints against Slaton over the following three weeks, setting off the investigation. At the time, Slatons attorney said that the claims against him were outrageous and false, but he has otherwise stayed quiet about the allegations.

Rep. Bryan Slaton looks on in the House Chamber at the Capitol, in Austin, Texas, on Jan. 18, 2023.

Rep. Bryan Slaton looks on in the House Chamber at the Capitol, in Austin, Texas, on Jan. 18, 2023.

The investigators noted that while conducting their probe, Slaton did not deny having sex with his intern. One of Slatons colleagues in the House also told investigators that when asked about rumors of his misconduct, Slaton confessed to his colleague about the sexual encounter.

Ultimately, the report determined that Slatons intern could not effectively consent to intercourse and could not indicate whether it was welcome or unwelcome. Furthermore, they wrote, Slaton took advantage of his position to engage in sexual conduct after completing training in which he had been advised that conduct of this type was harassment because of the power imbalance.

He resigned Monday after his several key allies withdrew their support for him, including the Texas Right to Life, a anti-abortion group that backed his political campaigns, and party officials from the counties he represented.

Slaton has been one of the loudest voices in the GOPs hysteria campaign over drag artists and transgender people. He said he planned to introduce legislation this year banning minors from drag shows.

We have to stop sick adults from sexualizing kids, he has repeatedly tweeted. Yes to protecting innocence. Yes letting kids be kids.

No one has the right to victimize a child by subjecting them to grooming, he wrote in January regarding drag performances with children in attendance.

While the concept of grooming is often discussed in reference to adults manipulating people under 18, its also applicable to other relationships with large power imbalances, such as the one Slatons accused of having with his teenage intern.

Had the state House voted to expel Slaton on Tuesday, it would have been the first time in nearly 100 years that a member of the chamber was forcibly removed from office.

Related...
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is deploying a "Texas Tactical Border Force" of hundreds of National Guard members.

The Guard will patrol "hot spots" along the Texas border and force migrants to turn around.

Abbott held a press conference to trash Biden's border policies as COVID-era border restrictions expire.

COVID-era restrictions that let the US turn away migrants at the border are set to expire this week  and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says the state's new "Tactical Border Force" will be patrolling "hot spots" to turn away undocumented immigrants.

Abbott announced Monday that over 500 Texas National Guard members will be deployed to "intercept, to repel, and to turn back migrants who are trying to enter Texas illegally."

Title 42, a March 2020 emergency public health rule that allowed former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden to speed up the process of turning away migrants seeking asylum at the US border, is set to end this Thursday.

On Friday, the World Health Organization announced the COVID-19 global health emergency was officially over.

Abbott used his press conference  helds days after incidents of deadly mass violence in his state  to trash Biden's border policies, saying the White House's plans would lead to "catastrophic disaster."

Abbott referenced the deadly mass shooting in Allen, Texas, while answering questions, saying he met with local leaders to "get to the bottom of what's going on."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Texas National Guard personnel place barbed wire on the banks of the Rio Grande in El Paso, Texas, on the border with Ciudad Juarez

The Republican governor of Texas on Monday ordered hundreds of National Guard soldiers to the US-Mexico border, in what he said was a bid to stem an expected surge of migration when Covid-era rules lapse this week.

In an illustration of the deep political divisions in the United States over immigration, Greg Abbott lashed out at President Joe Biden for an anticipated spike in illegal immigration.

"With the ending of Title 42 on Thursday, President Biden is laying down the welcome mat to people across the entire world," said Abbott.

"The Texas National Guard is loading Blackhawk helicopters and C-130s and deploying specially trained soldiers for the Texas Tactical Border Force, who will be deployed to hotspots all along the border to help intercept and repel large groups of migrants trying to enter Texas illegally."

Title 42 is the name of a set of rules imposed under then-president Donald Trump ostensibly to prevent people infected with Covid-19 from entering the country.

In practice it became a crude immigration control method that allowed border guards to turn away would-be asylum-seekers without accepting their claims.

After years of to-and-froing, the rules lapse on Thursday night, to be replaced by what the Biden administration says are legal pathways to asylum for those qualified and who do it properly, and strict punishments for those trying to cross the border illegally.

Border towns along the 3,100-kilometer (1,900-mile) frontier are readying for what could be several thousand people trying to cross into the United States every day.

The Texan cities of El Paso, Brownsville and Laredo have declared a state of emergency, as they struggle to cope with the hundreds of people -- most from Latin America, some from China, Russia and Turkey -- who are already there.

In El Paso, hundreds of people including children sleep on the streets, cowering from the sun under sheets, or sleeping on cardboard, some begging for money.

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Migration is a wedge issue that Republican Party politicians have repeatedly use to bash their Democratic Party opponents with.

The politicking is expected to intensify as America's electoral cycle spins towards next November's presidential poll.

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Texas Capitol in Austin Brandon Bell/Getty Images

The Texas House will vote as early as Tuesday on whether to expel Rep. Bryan Slaton (R), one of its most conservative members, after an investigation found that he served alcohol to a 19-year-old intern, had inappropriate sexual conduct with her, then tried to cover up his actions. The House General Investigations Committee recommended his expulsion and detailed the investigation in a 16-page report passed out to all 150 members on the House floor on Saturday.

"The expulsion of a fellow member is a level of punishment we don't take lightly," state Rep. Andrew Murr (R), who heads the investigations committee and filed the motion to expel Slaton, said on the House floor. Expulsion requires approval from a two-thirds majority. The last time the state House expelled legislators was in 1927, when it kicked out two lawmakers implicated in a bribery scandal.

In this case, the committee found, Slaton violated several House rules and likely three Class A misdemeanors plus "unlawful employment practices." The investigation, carried out by a retired judge, found that Slaton, 45 and married, had sex with the intern at his Austin condo early April 1. The intern said Slaton had provided her "a lot of alcohol" and she felt "really dizzy," but did not answer questions about the sexual activity. A friend told the committee the intern had unprotected sex with Slaton and procured Plan B pregnancy-prevention medication the next morning.

Because of the alcohol, the aide "could not effectively consent to intercourse and could not indicate whether [Slaton's conduct] was welcome or unwelcome," the committee found.

Slaton, a former Southern Baptist youth and family minister, did not deny the allegations or express regret or remorse for his conduct, the report said. Instead, his lawyer argued that the behavior was conducted outside the workplace and thus none of the committee's business. In April, Slaton's lawyer had accused "second-tier media" of circulating "false" and "outrageous claims" against Slaton.

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Since defeating a more moderate Republican in his Dallas-area district in 2020, Slaton has called for a blanket ban on drag shows to save children from "perverted adults" and proposed tax cuts for only straight, married, non-divorced couples with children, The Texas Tribune reports. He has also tried to make abortion a capital offense, The Dallas Morning News adds.

Rep. Jared Patterson (R) tweeted that Slaton is a "predator" and he looks forward to voting to expel him from the House. The Hunt County GOP in Slaton's district called on him to resign "for the good of the Republican Party," and the Texas Freedom Caucus  a House faction ideologically aligned with Slaton  called his actions "appalling" Sunday night and said if he doesn't resign, "we will vote to expel him Tuesday."

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The Texas man who killed eight people while carrying out a mass shooting at Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday (6 May) was terminated from the US Army training in 2008 due to a physical or mental health concern according to the US Army.

The shooter, identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, entered the regular army in 2008 but was terminated three months later according to a statement provided to The Independent by Heather J Hagan, US Army Public Affairs Spokeswoman.

Mauricio Garcia entered the regular Army in June 2008; he was terminated three months later without completing initial entry training. He was not awarded a military occupational specialty. He had no deployments or awards, Ms Hagan said.

She added that the Army does not provide characterisation of the discharge of any soldier.

However, an Army Official noted that Garcia was separated under the 2005 edition of Army Regulation 635-200 paragraph 5-17, other designated physical or mental conditions.

Garcias mental health has been subject to questions after law enforcement investigating the horrific attack revealed that Garcia may have engaged with white supremacist or neo-Nazi rhetoric online.

An insignia associated with right-wing groups was found on the gunmans clothing indicating he could have embraced a far-right ideology. Though law enforcement said they had not established a motive for the mass shooting yet.

Local and state law enforcement are working with the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to determine if the shooting was racially or ethnically motivated. As of now, authorities believe Garcia acted alone in the shooting.

Garcia arrived at the mall around 3.30 pm local time on Saturday armed with an AR-15-style rifle, body armour and multiple rounds of ammunition.

A dashcam video circulating on social media appeared to show the gunman getting out of a grey sedan just outside the malls entrance and then immediately begin shooting.

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Allen police said that an officer attending an unrelated call at Allen Premium Outlets heard gunshots at 3.36 pm on Saturday.

Eight people, ranging in age from 5 to 61, were fatally shot before Garcia was shot dead by law enforcement. An image circulating online seemingly showed Garcia lying on the ground after being shot.

Police said while searching the car Garcia arrived at the Allen Premium Outlets mall in, they found multiple weapons.

Initial reports say Garica formerly worked as a security guard and received firearms training. It is believed that he did not have a criminal history.

The Texas Department of Public Safety said Garcia is from Dallas.
Eight people have died and seven were injured when a gunman dressed in tactical gear and armed with an assault rifle opened fire at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas.

The suspect was shot dead by a police officer who was responding to an unrelated call, police said.

He has been identified by law enforcement sources as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, according to NBC News.

Hundreds of shoppers fled from Allen Premium Outlets, a large outdoor shopping centre, after gunfire erupted at about 3.30pm local time on Saturday.

Seven people, including the gunman, were pronounced dead at the scene, and two more died after being taken to hospital, the Allen Police Department said.

Heres what we know so far about the shooting.

How the shooting unfolded

Dashcam video circulating on social media appeared to show the gunman getting out of a grey sedan just outside the malls entrance and immediately begin shooting at passersby in the carpark.

More than three dozen shots could be heard on the footage.

Witnesses told CNN that panicked shoppers screamed and hid behind cars as the suspect shot indiscriminately.

Inside the mall, families and employees rushed to take cover in storage areas and hallways, witnesses said.

According to Allen police, an officer attending an unrelated call at Allen Premium Outlets heard gunshots at 3.36pm on Saturday.

The officer engaged the suspect and neutralised the threat, police said in a statement on Facebook.

Audio footage obtained by the Daily Mail captured the officer telling dispatch: I need everybody I got.

About two minutes after calling for backup, the officer told said he got him down.

The area was soon flooded with law enforcement officers and medics.

Hundreds of shoppers exiting the Allen Premium Outlets after a mass shooting on Saturday. (Associated Press)

An image obtained by media appeared to show the suspect lying on the ground after being shot.

He was dressed in black body armour, with additional magazines strapped to his chest, and an AR-15-style rifle was lying beside him.

Maxwell Gum, a 16-year-old pretzel stand worker, told the Associated Press that terrified shoppers stampeded as they sought safety. He said that he sheltered in a storage room.

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Another witness Kingsley Ezeh told CNN he heard a woman behind him scream someones shooting, and saw a man holding a neck wound that was dripping with blood.

Mr Ezeh said he and others huddled at the back of a store for more than two hours as police cleared the scene.

Allen resident Steven Spainhouer said he rushed to the scene after his son, who was working at an H&M store in the outlet, called him.

Mr Spainhouer said he saw several children among the deceased, and tried to perform CPR on several victims. At least three of the people he tried to save succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

I never imagined in 100 years I would be thrust into the position of being the first first responder on the site to take care of people, Mr Spainhouer told CBS News.

The first girl I walked up to was crouched down covering her head in the bushes, so I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side and she had no face.

Video footage showed hundreds of shoppers exiting the mall with their hands raised.

What we know about the victims

Seven people  including the suspect  were killed at the scene, Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said at a press conference on Saturday. Nine people were transported to hospital, where two more succumbed to their injuries.

Three survivors were undergoing surgery and remained in a critical condition on Saturday night, Mr Boyd said. Four others were in a stable condition.

Medical City Healthcare spokesperson Janet St James, said their trauma facilities received eight patients between the age of 5 and 61 following the shooting.

The identities and ages of the victims have not yet been released, but witnesses reported they included young children.

On Sunday, family members identified Christian LaCour, a 22-year-old security guard, as among the deceased.

What we know about the suspect

On Sunday afternoon, NBC News reported he had been identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, citing law enforcement sources.

Police have not released a possible motive, but Garcia was wearing a patch on his chest that suggested he may have had white supremacist beliefs, law enforcement sources toldthe Washington Post.

Garcia had several weapons including an AR-15 rifle and a handgun on him and in his car, the Post reported.

According to CBS News reporter JD Miles, Garcia was a security guard with no serious criminal record.

He had been living in a motel at the time the shooting, Mr Miles said.

FBI agents raided a Dallas home where Garcia had been living with his parents for years, according to Fox News.

Officers were stationed outside the address on Sunday. The suspects family reportedly requested a translator to speak with authorities.

The gunman drove himself to the mall. Video showed him exiting a grey sedan vehicle, was dressed in black tactical gear, and armed with an AR-15-style weapon, and open fire.

Law enforcement have reportedly raided the Garcias home.

The Texas Bureau of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the suspect. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Rangers have also been deployed to assist local law enforcement agencies with the investigation.

What lawmakers are saying

Allen Mayor Ken Fulk said in a statement that the quick thinking of law enforcement had prevented greater loss of life.

Their thorough training not to hesitate to move toward the threat likely saved more lives today.

He said the community would wrap our arms around the victims and familiesimpacted by the tragedy.

Allen is a proud and safe city which makes todays senseless act of violence even more shocking, he said.

Law enforcement officers at a mall in Allen, Texas, where a gunman killed eight people on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who recently signed laws easing gun restrictions, called the mall shooting an unspeakable tragedy.

His comments were met with anger from gun safety advocates, and state and national lawmakers.

Roland Gutierrez, a Texas state senator, told MSNBC there was a special place in hell for lawmakers who do nothing to stem the unprecedented wave of gun violence.

I dont care about their thoughts and I dont care about their prayers, Mr Gutierrez said.

Fred Guttenberg, whose daughter was murdered in the Parkland school shooting, called on Mr Abbott to tell Texans the truth about why mass shootings continue to occur.

You need to explain that your policies failed and that you lied. Your policies are to blame.

Survivors of the Allen mall mass shooting are escorted away from the scene by police officers. (via REUTERS)

President Joe Biden implored Congress to send him a bill banning assault weapons and high capacity magazines, and enacting universal background checks.

Republican Members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug, he said in a statement. Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough.

He ordered American flags at the White House, public buildings and on military bases to fly at half mast as a mark of respect to the victims.

Senator Ted Cruz said he was praying for the victims and the wider Collin County community.

Thank you to the incredible law enforcement who put a stop to the monster who committed this act of evil.

The shooting came one week after five family members were killed by a neighbour in Cleveland after asking him to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been nearly 200 mass shootings already in 2023.

FBI asks for video of shooting

The FBI is asking for anyone with video, audio or photographic evidence of Saturdays shooting to share it with them.

The bureau has set up a portal where evidence can be submitted anonymously.

The FBI told CNN it was present at two locations in Dallas, and is helping state and local police by devoting all available resources to include investigative, intelligence, digital forensics, and victim services personnel among others.
People pray during a visit to a memorial setup near an entrance to the Allen Premium Outlets mall after the mass shooting occurred on May 8, 2023 in Allen, Texas. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

It was a deadly weekend in Texas.

On Saturday, a 33-year-old gunman opened fire at a Dallas-area mall, killing eight people and wounding seven others before he was fatally shot by police. Less than 24 hours later, the 34-year-old driver of an SUV ran a red light and slammed into a crowd of migrants in the border city of Brownsville, killing eight people waiting for a bus outside a shelter

Heres everything we know so far about the two tragedies, culled from original reporting and Yahoo News partner network, including the Associated Press, Fort Worth Star-Telegram and others.

How the shooting unfolded

People leave a shopping center following reports of a shooting in Allen, Texas on Saturday. (LM Otero/AP)

According to police, the shooting began around 3:30 p.m. at Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas, about 25 miles north of Dallas, when a man armed with an AR-15-style assault rifle and wearing tactical gear opened fire, killing eight people and wounding seven others before he was fatally shot by a police officer who happened to be at the mall.

The Texas Department of Public Safety later identified the gunman as Mauricio Garcia, who lived in the Dallas area. According to NBC News, police recovered an additional handgun at the scene, and more weapons and ammunition were found in his car.

Investigators were also searching a Dallas home connected to the suspect, the Associated Press reported, and a motel near an interstate where he had been staying.

Investigators eye white supremacist ideology

People are evacuated from the shopping center in Allen, Texas. (LM Otero/AP)

Federal officials are reportedly looking into whether the shooter had expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology and neo-Nazi views as they look for a motive for the attack.

Both the AP and NBC News reported that the suspect had a patch on his chest that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups.

And a preliminary review of what were believed to be the shooters social media accounts revealed hundreds of posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, per NBC.

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What we know about the shooting victims

Jane (who did not want to provide last name) and her comfort dog Triton at a memorial to those killed at the mall. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Five of the deceased victims ranging in age from 5 to 61 years old have been publicly identified.

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard from Farmersville, Texas, died while working at the mall, his sister, Brianna Smith, told ABC News.

He was a really sweet kid. Im sad that hes gone, Smith said.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 27-year-old Indian engineer, who lived in the Dallas suburb of McKinney, Texas, was at the mall with a friend, per the BBC. Thatikonda was killed in the shooting. Her friend was wounded.

Three members of a Korean American family were also among the deceased victims, according to the Dallas Morning News. Cho Kyu Song, 37, Kang Shin Young, 35, and their 3-year-old son were killed. Another child of the couple, a 5-year-old, survived and is being treated at a hospital.

Governor blames mental health crisis

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Appearing on Fox News Sunday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott bemoaned the nations mental health crisis while resisting calls for stricter gun control.

What Texas is doing in a big-time way, we are working to address that anger and violence but going to its root cause, which is addressing the mental health problems behind it, Abbott said, adding: "People want a quick solution. The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

In a statement, President Biden called on Congress to enact tougher gun laws while noting that there have been nearly 200 mass shootings in the United States already this year.

An assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time, Biden said. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar.

How the SUV tragedy unfolded

A law enforcement officer documents the scene after a deadly incident where a car ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and the homeless, in Brownsville, Texas, May 7. (John Faulk/Reuters)

On Sunday morning, tragedy struck the border town of Brownsville in the southeast corner of the state. An SUV driver killed eight people and injured another 10 when he ran his car into a line waiting to board a bus outside a migrant center.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado, who reviewed the security footage, told the Associated Press that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about 100 feet (30 meters) away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop.

The Brownsville Police Department said the driver tried to flee the scene after the SUV flipped but was held down by bystanders before being taken to the hospital, where his blood was tested for drugs and alcohol. On Monday morning, CNN released video of the driver being restrained outside the Ozanam Center. Many of the victims were Venezuelan.

Driver is charged with manslaughter

A law enforcement officer investigates the damaged vehicle after it ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless. (ABC affiliate KRGV via Reuters)

At a press conference Monday morning, police announced that the driver was Brownsville native George Alvarez, 34. Chief Felix Sauceda said Alvarez had a previous record and was being charged with reckless driving, eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Sauceda added that Alvarez was now out of the hospital in police custody, they werent ruling out any potential motives and they were working with the Venezuelan government.

Lt. Martin Sandoval said Sunday that Alvarez wasnt cooperating with police, saying, It's not simply just combative. He is just saying, No, I am not going to do this, and he will tense up and so it kind of makes it harder for the detention officers to do their jobs, but we are talking to him.

A mass was held at the site of the crash Sunday night, and additional vigils are planned.

Pray for those who saw it happen; they are devastated, said Bishop Daniel Flores, who led the service. Many first responders attended the Mass; pray for them also, for the burden they carry is great.

An influx of migrants

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, center, speaks at a press conference in Brownsville, May 5. (Michael Gonzalez/Getty Images)

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas visited Brownsville on Friday and said authorities were facing extremely challenging circumstances as Title 42, a pandemic-era border restriction, was set to end. Mayorkas noted that there had been a particular surge in migrants from Venezuela for reasons that were unclear.

In order to reduce the number of migrants entering the country, the Biden administration is set to implement new restrictions on asylum seekers, including denying entry to anyone who crossed through another country without applying for protections there before reaching the U.S.-Mexico border. The proposed regulation, which will make it easier to quickly deport asylum seekers who are disqualified under the new rule, was widely condemned by immigration and human rights advocates when it was unveiled in February.

Brownsville is among the Texas border communities to issue emergency declarations in advance of Title 42 ending. In late April, officials said they had never seen such high numbers of migrants.
Texas Department of Public Safety officers block an entranceway to the Allen Premium Outlets mall May 7, 2023 in Allen, Texas. Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Nine people died in a mass shooting at a Texas mall on Saturday, including the gunman.

A survivor described being saved by a store employee who hid her and 12 others in a bathroom closet.

The woman said she later saw the store employee's dead body while being evacuated from the scene.

A survivor of the Texas mass shooting at a mall on Saturday said that she and 12 others were saved by an employee who was later killed.

Racquel Lee, a mother of two, told CBS News Texas she was shopping at the Allen Premium Outlets mall when the gunman began shooting.

"It sounded like a war zone," Lee told the outlet. "It was horrifying and it felt like you were in a dream, like, just shock."

Lee said that an employee gathered her and 12 others and hid them inside a store's bathroom closet.

"We were just in the closet trying not to be heard crying, praying, people were trying to call 911, we couldn't dial out," Lee said.

"I just remember thinking, 'oh god, he's coming in here next.' I was crouching down like 'I hope we don't get hit by a bullet," a visibly emotional Lee told the outlet.

"The store associate saved our lives," she said.

The shooting left nine people dead, including the gunman and the store worker.

Lee shared videos of the group sheltering in the bathroom with CBS. Some members of the group, which included children, look afraid and can be seen trying to make phone calls.

The final clip shows the group being led out of the room, holding their hands up.

Lee said the group walked over "bullets and bodies" as they left the mall  including the body of the store employee who had saved them.

Authorities are currently investigating whether the shooter had white-supremacist or neo-Nazi beliefs, following reports that he wore a patch on his chest that said "RWDS," an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad, The Washington Post reported.

Read the original article on Insider
A Texas House panel advanced a bill Monday that would raise the minimum age limit to purchase semiautomatic rifles, days after a mass shooting at a Texas mall left eight victims dead.

The Texas House Community Safety Select Committee approved the bill 8-5 on Monday, with two Republicans joining Democrats in voting for the bill, the Texas Tribune reported. If enacted, HB 2744 would raise the age required to purchase semiautomatic rifles in the state of Texas from 18 to 21, a move that many other states have already adopted.

The bill would face an uphill battle in both Republican-controlled chambers of the state legislature, as well as pushback from Gov. Greg Abbott (R), who said last August that such a law would be unconstitutional.

This bill comes on the heels of the states latest mass shooting, where a 33-year-old gunman opened fire at the Allen Premium Outlets, killing eight people before being shot and killed by police. The shooting, which also left seven people hospitalized, was the states second mass shooting in less than 10 days; a man shot into his neighbors home late last month, killing five.

In both cases, the suspects used an assault rifles in the attack. President Biden has reiterated his calls to enact stricter gun laws and ban assault rifles in the country, but that decision is ultimately left to Congress.

Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe, he said in a statement Sunday.

Volunteers from Moms Demand Action, an advocacy group that calls for stricter gun laws, were in attendance at the committee hearing Monday, as well as some families of the victims of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting, which left 19 children and two teachers dead.

Todays vote is a crucial step in the right direction, but we wont give up. We will keep holding lawmakers in Texasand across the nationaccountable until life-saving measures like HB 2744 become law, the group said in a statement on Twitter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
With four letters, the alleged shooter in the Allen, Texas, mass killing may have attempted to advertise his far-right political ideology during the attack.

The suspectreportedlywore a patch reading RWDS  or Right Wing Death Squad  a longtime catchphrase of the rights fascist wing.

The phrase is a favorite of members of the Proud Boys, the right-wing street gang whose leadership was convicted last week of seditious conspiracy for their actions during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Several members of the group wore RWDS patches on that day, a New Yorker article from the time noted.

The Proud Boys chairman, Enrique Tarrio, is one those convicted leaders. A website called 1776.shop, where he and other Proud Boys sold merchandise, included listings for vinyl decals and patches with the text RWDS.

On Monday, The New York Times and Bellingcat researcher Aric Toler tracked down the online footprint that they reported belonged to the suspect, which included numerous references to neo-Nazi beliefs. Toler published a photo from the suspects social media profile showing a RWDS patch on a tactical vest.

Post from April 21st pic.twitter.com/ToWKclPplk  Aric Toler (@AricToler) May 8, 2023

The phrase is so common among extremist groups that, upon news of the Texas shooting, a slew of reporters and scholars posted photos of their encounters with it:

The "RWDS" patch reportedly found on the Allen, TX shooter is commonly worn by Proud Boys both on patches and t-shirts. In September 2020 Enrique Tarrio (convicted last week of seditious conspiracy) was wearing a RWDS patch. https://t.co/Ep27qRyqGEpic.twitter.com/7ObHQFav0s  Emily Molli (@emilymolli) May 7, 2023

I missed it earlier, but Bertino's shirt also has RWDS - "right wing death squad" - on the sleeve. These dudes *love* Pinochet and the murder, torture & terror he inflicted on innocent people. And they are 1-2 phone calls from some of the most powerful people on the planet. https://t.co/2Fu07OPRYF  Robert Downen (@RobertDownen_) May 7, 2023

HuffPost previously reported that John Donnelly, a former Woburn, Massachusetts, police officer and white supremacist, bragged online about wearing a shirt from the apparel company Right Wing Death Squad to the gym. The shirt contained another popular far-right meme: the phrase Pinochet did nothing wrong, a reference to the murderous Chilean dictator with a penchant for killing leftists.

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Got some looks, Donnelly wrote. Using a derogatory slur, Donnelly said he believed Jews win if youre not wearing offensive clothing to the gym.

That reference to Pinochet is key in understanding the Right Wing Death Squad phrase, and in particular, U.S. support for the extrajudicial killings of left-wing political figures and others who are simply associated with the left by their killers.

As noted in a 2021 paper published by West Points Combating Terrorism Center, the Right Wing Death Squad phrase is a meme allusion to incidents of extrajudicial executions of political opponents by the Chilean fascist regime of Augusto Pinochet. Dissidents, particularly leftists, socialists, and supporters of the previous government, were dropped to their death from helicopters by Pinochets regime. Today, the reference often features an image of a helicopter and is often accompanied by slogans such as Right Wing Death Squad, Free Helicopter Rides, and other iterations.

And as the photographer Jeff Schwilk told The Intercept in a report on the far-rights interest in Pinochet, Pinochet specifically hearkens to the heyday of U.S.-backed death squads in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, from the Phoenix Program in Vietnam to Suharto in Indonesia to the Contras in Nicaragua. It is a direct threat of the intention of deadly mass violence and future death squads targeting the left in the United States and anyone else deemed an enemy. It reveals the true nature of this ideology.

A Decade-Old Right-Wing Meme

The phrase has a long history in the Trump era of American politics.

On the night he won the 2016 New York Republican presidential primary, Donald Trump retweeted well wishes from a whitesupremacist account that described itself with the RWDS moniker, The American Prospect noted at the time.

There were numerous references to the phrase the following year at the deadly Unite the Right white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. Photographers captured RWDS written and spray-painted on shields wielded by white nationalists.

After the rally, Facebook claimed that it had banned a group called Right Wing Death Squad, among others, from its platform. However, three years later, the Tech Transparency Project reported that the group still had at least three pages on the website that were created prior to the 2017 ban.

In 2019, authorities were investigating Michael V. Zaremski, a New Jersey EMT accused of terrorizing his ex-girlfriend, when they discovered that Zaremski had stockpiled weapons and far-right literature, and had spoken about committing a mass shooting at a hospital. Prosecutors alleged that Zaremski had made videos re-creating the mass shooting of Muslim worshippers in Christchurch, New Zealand  and that he had a Right Wing Death Squad patch on his EMT vest.

That same year, the Fashwave band OBNX released the song Right Wing Death Squad, part of the album R.W.D.S.  which is still available on major platforms like Apple Music. According to public Spotify figures, the song has more than 1.1 million plays.

In 2020, reporters noted Proud Boys wearing the patches during a pro-gun rally outside the Virginia State Capitol. One Proud Boy at that event appeared unwilling to explain what the initialism RWDS stood for. You can look it up, he told an inquiring journalist.

Later that year, a man standing with a group of Proud Boys in Washington, D.C., was photographed wearing a shirt with the text 6MWE on the chest  or 6 Million Wasnt Enough, a reference to the number of Jews killed in the Holocaust  and RWDS on the sleeve.

And in 2021, federal investigators probed a U.S. Marine and others who were part of a Facebook chat group called Right Wing Death Squad. The group members, one of whom was allegedly linked to the neo-Nazi Atomwaffen Division, discussed killing Democratic Party employees, minorities and drug users with explosives and guns, The Daily Beast reported.

The alleged Allen, Texas, shooters motives are still unknown.

An FBI bulletin on the suspect said a review of his social media accounts revealed hundreds of postings and images to include writings with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist rhetoric, including neo-Nazi materials and material espousing the supremacy of the white race, Rolling Stone reported.

And multiple reports noting his RWDS patch  albeit sourced to unnamed law enforcement officials  offer more context on the suspects politics.

But authorities arent discussing publicly what theyve found. Local and state investigative agencies did not respond to HuffPosts questions, and an FBI Dallas Field Office public affairs officer declined to comment.

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The protesters called for the resignation of a number of top officials

Tens of thousands demonstrated in the Serbian capital Belgrade on Monday, with the protesters calling for the resignation of top officials and the curtailing of violence in the media, after back-to-back shootings stunned the Balkan country.

The "Serbia against violence" demonstration saw members from across the country's political divide come together after last week's shootings -- where 17 people were killed in less than 48 hours, including nine at an elementary school in Belgrade.

"We demand an immediate stop to further promotion of violence in the media and public space, as well as responsibility for the long-standing inadequate response from competent authorities," the leftist Let's Not Let Belgrade Drown party said in a statement.

The demonstrators gathered in front of the country's parliament before taking to the streets to rally near Serbia's government offices.

Thousands also rallied in the northern city of Novi Sad, where protesters threw flowers into the Danube river, which flows downstream to the capital.

"We are here because we can't wait any longer. We've waited too long, we've been silent too long, we've turned our heads too long," Marina Vidojevic, an elementary school teacher, told the crowd in Belgrade.

"We want safe schools, streets, villages and cities for all children."

The protesters also called for the resignation of a number of top officials -- including the interior minister and head of Serbia's intelligence agency.

On Sunday, the country's education minister stepped down, citing the "cataclysmic tragedy" caused by last week's school shooting in his resignation letter.

The opposition is also demanding that reality shows known for promoting violence should be taken off air along with banning pro-government newspapers that regularly stoke tension with crude articles targeting political dissidents.

Following the rally, President Aleksandar Vucic dismissed the protests during a live interview, calling it a "political" stunt.

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"I asked truly and sincerely... people not to organise something like this, not because I was in any way scared or threatened, but because I felt that it was not good for the country," said Vucic.

After the shootings last week, Vucic vowed to "disarm" Serbia with an ambitious plan that would crack down on legal and illicit firearms in the country.

Serbia has the highest level of gun ownership in Europe, with roughly 39 out of 100 people owning firearms, according to the Small Arms Survey research group.

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A three-year-old boy and his parents, two elementary school children and a young engineer from India have been named as victims of a shooting attack in Texas on Saturday.

James Cho died alongside his parents Cho Kyu Song, 37, and Kang Shin Young, 35, according to reports. His six-year-old brother was injured but survived.

The identifications come as officials probe whether the killer had links to any far-right organisations or beliefs.

Eight were killed in the shooting.

Several victims remain in hospital.

A verified GoFundMe page says that the Cho family were at the Allen Premium Outlets mall on Saturday to exchange clothing their six-year-old son had received as a birthday gift a few days before.

"An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre," friends of the family wrote on the page.

Korean consulate officials in Texas told the Dallas Morning News newspaper that the Cho family were American citizens of Korean descent and that diplomats are in contact with their family members.

Primary school pupils Daniela and Sofia Mendoza, who were sisters, were also killed. Their mother, Ida, remains in hospital in critical condition, according to CBS News, the BBC's US partner.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 27-year-old engineer from India, was also killed during a visit to the mall with a friend, as well as security guard Christian LaCour, 20.

On Monday evening, Texas authorities identified the final victim, a 32-year-old male named Elio Cumana-Rivas.

He was from Dallas, Texas.

Six people were pronounced dead at the scene in the north Dallas suburbs, while two died later in hospital.

The 33-year-old suspect, Mauricio Garcia, was shot dead by a police officer who was responding to an unrelated call, ending the attack.

Investigators are now reviewing social media to look into the killer's beliefs, reports CBS.

During the attack, the rifle-wielding attacker wore an insignia which has been associated with hate groups, as well as combat tactical gear.

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He was seen on video with a clothing patch with the letters RWDS, which stands for "Right Wing Death Squad".

This is a phrase popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups.

A memorial with a crying woman

An account run by the suspect on a Russia-based social network seen by BBC News includes pictures of Nazi swastikas and SS tattoos, other posts glorifying Nazis, and rambling messages about violence.

He also posted pictures from previous visits to the outlet mall, as recently as mid-April.

According to the US defence department, the suspect entered the US Army in June 2008 and was "terminated three months later without completing initial entry training" due to "physical or mental conditions".

He was reportedly working as a security guard at the time of the shooting and did not have a serious criminal record. Officials have searched his parents' home and a nearby extended-stay motel where he had been recently living.

There have been 201 mass shootings this year according to the Gun Violence Archive, which defines such incidents as four people injured or killed.

People who went to help the victims in the aftermath of the shooting at the expansive outdoor mall have recalled their efforts to save lives.

Meanwhile, graphic videos from the scene spread rapidly and were viewed millions of times on Twitter before the social media site began taking the footage down more than 24 hours after the attack.

US President Joe Biden ordered flags at the White House to fly at half-staff in honour of the victims of "the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation".

The Republican governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, told Fox News Sunday his aim was to target the possession of weapons by criminals and deal with a rising mental health crisis, rather than consider wider bans.

"People want a quick solution," he said. "The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue."

Allen is a racially diverse suburb north of Dallas and has an infamous connection with another recent mass shooting.

A man who lived there in 2019 went on a gun rampage at a Walmart in El Paso, killing 23 people, after posting a racist manifesto online. In February he pleaded guilty to hate crime charges.

Additional reporting by Shayan Sardarizadeh
Three Stockton men were arrested over the weekend, accused of cutting and stealing cable and phone lines in an incident that left a rural California countys dispatch center unable to receive 911 calls for several hours.

AT&T fiber optic cable lines were found cut near Highway 88 and Highway 124 in Ione around 9:30 a.m. Sunday  for the second time in as many weeks at the same location  the Amador County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Deputies and California Highway Patrol personnel responded that afternoon to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked off of Highway 124 south of Ione, according to deputies. The reporting party told authorities that three men fled from the area of the vehicle into the nearby woods.

The vehicle, a red Ford SUV, had expired registration tags and was towed, sheriffs officials wrote. A search turned up evidence of copper wire theft, copious amounts of stripped copper wire and drug paraphernalia inside the SUV, according to the news release.

Authorities also found a freshly cut length of service wire near the vehicle, sheriffs officials wrote. The trio of suspects was reportedly interrupted by AT&T workers responding to the outage when they fled.

As deputies were processing the towed vehicle, one of the three men exited the woods and approached the deputies with his hands up, admitting he was the owner of the vehicle, the Sheriffs Office wrote.

Deputies and CHP officers detained the first suspect, then followed three sets of footprints into a marshy area along Highway 124.

The two remaining suspects eventually emerged from the marsh and were detained, sheriffs officials wrote. Authorities linked all three suspects, who were covered in mud and sticks, to the vehicle and the wire theft.

The three men were identified as Elpidio Rivera, 42; Joel Rivera-Villa, 25; and Hialario Lopez-Rodriguez, 35, all of Stockton.

All three were arrested and booked into the Amador County Jail on numerous charges including utilities theft, interference with power lines, conspiracy and drug possession. They are ineligible for bail, jail booking records show.

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The AT&T outage left Sheriffs Office dispatchers unable to receive most 911 calls made within Amador County. Dispatchers also could not make outgoing calls to other agencies, according to the sheriffs news release.

The Amador County Sheriffs Office ultimately forwarded 911 and non-emergency calls to the Calaveras County Sheriffs Office dispatch center, which then emailed call information back to the Amador County dispatchers. Verizon Wireless also provided dispatchers two phones with Wi-Fi capabilities so that they could make outgoing calls, according to the news release.

The AT&T lines were repaired around 5:45 p.m. Sunday, and the dispatch center was able to resume normal operations.

The Sheriffs Office said Sundays incident was at least the fourth time AT&T fiber cables have been cut, with the previous instance reported April 30. It was not immediately clear whether the three men arrested Sunday have been linked to any of the previous incidents.
Tiger Woods and his attorneys filed a motion to dismiss his former girlfriend Erica Hermans lawsuit against him Monday, marking the latest step in their complicated separation.

Woods and his attorneys claimed in the filing obtained by Yahoo Sports that Herman both willingly agreed to sign a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) and she agreed to settle their dispute through private arbitration  something she is now trying to do publicly.

Ms. Hermans response evinces a lack of understanding of the procedures to be followed at the upcoming hearing  As the record plainly demonstrates, Mr. Woods has insisted at every opportunity that [Ms.] Herman is bound by the arbitration provisions of the NDA and has sought to enforce his rights thereunder, the filing stated.

Woods and Herman dated for almost six years, and she frequently attended major events with him and his children. The pair split in October.

Tiger Woods' ex-girlfriend, Erica Herman, is suing him after their breakup last fall  which she claims he did through a "scheme." (Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile/Getty Images)

Herman, in a court filing last week obtained by Yahoo Sports, revealed several details about their relationship. Woods, she said, decided to pursue a sexual relationship with his employee, then  according to him  forced her to sign an NDA about it or else be fired from her job. And, when he became disgruntled with their sexual relationship, he tricked her into leaving her home, locked her out, took her cash, pets and personal possessions, and tried to strong-arm her into signing a different NDA.

Woods ended the relationship through a scheme, Herman said. She claims she was told to pack a bag for a trip to the Bahamas, but when they arrived at the airport, Woods boarded the plane without her and referred Herman to his lawyer.

"Then, Mr. Woodss California lawyer, out of the blue, told her that she was not going anywhere, would never see Mr. Woods again, had been locked out of the house, and could not return," Herman's court filing states. "She would not even be able to see the children or her pets again."

Woods team, however, claims that Herman was simply invited to live in Woods home while they were dating. Once that relationship had ended, Herman was advised that she was no longer welcome there.

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The filing from Woods team Monday included emails between Herman and Woods chief financial officer Chris Hubman regarding the initial NDA in 2017, in which Herman was told her employment by The Woods Jupiter and your personal relationship with TW are two separate items. Herman had asked Hubman what would happen if the two split down the road, and that she doesn't "have any problems with what's in the document because I wouldn't go public or use anything I know to hurt him or the kids."

After their breakup last fall, Herman filed a lawsuit against the trust that Woods controls in which she is seeking $30 million in damages. She claims in that lawsuit that she has an oral tenancy agreement to remain in the home for up to five years after their breakup. Herman also said that the trust misappropriated $40,000 in cash that belonged to her, and that it also made scurrilous and defamatory allegations about how she obtained that money in the first place.

Herman filed a second lawsuit in March against Woods asking to be released from the NDA. In that suit, Herman suggested allegations of sexual assault and sexual harassment, but didn't publicly offer details on those charges. Those allegations could void an NDA under federal rules.

A hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, where Woods attorneys will officially ask a judge to end the lawsuit against him.

Woods is currently sidelined indefinitely from competing after undergoing surgery on his ankle last month. He withdrew from the Masters on the final day of competition just before the surgery.
By Camillus Eboh

ABUJA (Reuters) - Police blocked roads in the centre of Nigeria's capital on Monday as judges started hearing opposition petitions disputing president-elect Bola Tinubu's victory in February's presidential election.

Yards away from the Court of Appeal in Abuja, around 100 protesters stood quietly holding up pre-printed banners saying Tinubu should not be sworn in, before officers moved them on.

Inside the courtroom, Judge Haruna Simon Tsamani appealed to lawyers "to avoid making sensational comments" during their arguments.

Opposition candidates Atiku Abubakar of the People's Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party argue the vote should be annulled because of what they said were several breaches of the electoral law and other irregularities.

The two say the electoral agency broke its own rules by failing to upload polling station results on electronic machines soon after voting, opening the result to manipulation.

Tinubu says the petitions lack merit and should be dismissed.

On Monday, the five judges of the Presidential Election Petition Court set the rules for the hearing but did not get into substantive arguments.

Their ruling is not expected for several weeks - the court has 180 days from the date the petitions were filed in March to come to a decision.

There have been numerous legal challenges to the outcome of previous Nigerian presidential elections, but none has succeeded.

February's election attracted one of the lowest voter turnouts since military rule ended in 1999.

Election observers from the European Union, the Commonwealth and other groups reported a range of problems, among them failures in systems designed to prevent vote manipulation, but they did not allege fraud.

A smaller opposition party withdrew its petition against the vote outcome on Monday without giving reasons.

(Reporting by Camillus Eboh, writing by MacDonald Dzirutwe, editing by Andrew Heavens)
'My issue has always been overindulgence,' says Shabaz Ali, 30, a chemistry teacher who has found internet celebrity with his videos on TikTok

Lying on his bed with a camera close to his face, Shabaz Ali raises his eyebrows, widens his eyes and drily ridicules the excessive lifestyles of internet influencers.

His videos on TikTok and Instagram have propelled the 30-year-old from Blackburn, northwest England, to internet celebrity and the cusp of mainstream fame -- yet he is the first to admit he is hardly a natural fit.

He is a chemistry teacher with a thick northern accent, using slang unlikely to travel very well even to neighbouring counties, and he makes serious points about the growing gap between rich and poor.

"My issue has always been overindulgence," he told AFP in a recent interview.

"I think the Kardashian era is definitely coming to an end, because we've come to a point where we really don't need to see how many billions you have and how much money you're spending."

Ali, known as Shabaz Says on social media, has amassed tens of millions of views, with 1.6 million followers on TikTok and 1.2 million on Instagram.

His main series -- "I'm rich, you're poor" -- sees him comment on videos made by influencers.

He expresses incredulity as an influencer irons a bed, or makes ice cubes in the shape of pineapples, or cooks a "blood quiche".

Internet culture may be a golden goose for comedians, but Ali reckons his rich-poor humour has struck a chord because many people are struggling to afford the basics right now, even in wealthy nations.

"They just want to talk about it," he said of those commenting on his videos.

- 'Povvo pride' -

"In Britain, we grow up to be really ashamed about not having much. But you shouldn't be ashamed," Ali said.

Instead, he wants to instil a sense of "povvo pride", using northern England slang for someone experiencing poverty.

Seeing the ridiculousness of someone fixing a wedding cake to the ceiling, or spending $50,000 on an Hermes bag, hammers home the absurdity of current times.

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"It has allowed the rest of us to think: 'I might not have it, but at least I'm not an idiot spending silly money on stupid things'," he said.

Ali has always mixed his professional life with social-media hobbies, starting out by editing YouTube videos.

But during the Covid-19 lockdowns, when life migrated online across the world, his pupils encouraged him to get serious with TikTok.

Fuelled by boredom and a hot summer indoors, he started pushing out more short sketches, eventually hitting on the "povvo" vein of humour that saw his follower count take off.

Now, he is selling his own merchandise, writing a book and thinking about a podcast and other media projects.

Could he become the type of person he has been lampooning?

- Ice cube fascination -

Ali is clear: He has no plans to give up teaching and he is not swapping Blackburn for Dubai, the global epicentre of influencer excess.

"I think Dubai has lent itself to everything I'm the opposite of," he said.

Equally important, he wants to avoid "bullying" humour and make sure he uses his celebrity to promote more important causes.

"It is a form of escapism, but when you have one million people watching you, do something with that," he said. "Don't fall into the trap of just selling stuff."

Ali has never been a fan of internet personalities and does not spend his spare time watching the videos he lampoons.

But after a pause for thought, he admits one exception.

"I'm fascinated by the ice cube videos," he said of those showing people spending hours to create ice cubes in weird shapes, weirder flavours or even printing patterns on them.

For Ali, the people making these videos are legitimate targets because they are effectively saying, "I can afford to do this, you can't."

Or to put it another way: "You've got fish fingers and food in your freezer, and I've got an entire freezer of ice cubes."

jxb/js/kjm
Getting the support of Black voters  a majority of whom do not align with his politics  would come with its challenges for the South Carolina U.S. senator.

A Black man is exploring a run for president of the United States in the upcoming 2024 election process. The Black community, however, is noticeably silent about the potential budding presidential candidate.

Various early polls of voters so far place U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina at the bottom of the growing list of current and potential Republican presidential candidates.

WASHINGTON, DC  APRIL 27: Committee ranking member Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) speaks during a Senate Banking Committee hearing on oversight of credit reporting agencies, on Capitol Hill April 27, 2023 in Washington, DC. The hearing featured testimony from leaders of the three largest national credit reporting agencies. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

For Scott, getting the support of Black voters  a majority of whom do not align with his politics  would come with its challenges, according to some who have worked closely with the Republican senator.

For one, Senator Scott, while delivering the Republican rebuttal to President Joe Bidens first joint address to Congress in 2021, infamously said, America is not a racist country. However, data shows Black Americans remain concerned about racial discrimination, and the FBI reported an increase in hate crimes in recent years.

Scott also single-handedly killed any chance of Capitol Hill lawmakers passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in both the 117th and 118th sessions of Congress. The bill contained crucial federal police reform demanded by community activists and Black voters after the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and countless other police-involved killings of unarmed Black Americans.

Sources close to bipartisan discussions between Scott, the Senates lone Black Republican, Democrats Senator Cory Booker and then-U.S. Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., said Scott was the holdout on behalf of Republicans. One described his involvement in enacting legislation to hold police accountable as disingenuous.

WASHINGTON, DC  MAY 18: (L-R) Rep. Karen Bass (D-CA), Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), and Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) speak briefly to reporters as they exit the office of Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) following a meeting about police reform legislation on Capitol Hill May 18, 2021 in Washington, DC. Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Tara Setmayer, conservative TV commentator and senior advisor to The Lincoln Project, told theGrio she believes Scott is comfortable with his comments on race and blocking the Floyd bill because of what it signals to white voters.

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Let him take that message in front of the NAACP or the [National] Urban League or to African Americans who experience racism, said Setmayer. She added, I dont understand how Scott is not self-aware.

Scott previously shared that police racially profiled him. That commonality with many Black Americans, particularly Black men, signaled hope that he, Booker and Bass, would achieve meaningful bipartisan police reform.

Bass, now mayor of Los Angeles, told theGrio, I think what we suspected of Tim Scott has now come to fruition.

The former California congresswoman said Scotts profile had blown up at the time of negotiations. She hinted that politics and an eye for higher office may have got in the way of making any headway.

There was presidential talk or vice presidential talk  I do not believe that Senator Booker could look to Tim Scott to be an ally in the Senate, lamented Bass, who predicted Scott could declare his run for president in the next few months.

WASHINGTON, DC  AUGUST 24: U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) stands on stage in an empty Mellon Auditorium while addressing the Republican National Convention at the Mellon Auditorium on August 24, 2020 in Washington, DC. The novel coronavirus pandemic has forced the Republican Party to move away from an in-person convention to a televised format, similar to the Democratic Partys convention a week earlier. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Political commentator Armstrong Williams, a Black Republican, takes a moderate position on the issue of policing in America. We must take a strong stance on law enforcement, but we also must hold the blue accountable when theyre out of line, he told theGrio. People need to see both.

Bass believes the window for police reform is over in Congress, at least for now. She said Republicans view it as a Black issue and pointed out that Democrats no longer have majority control in the U.S. House of Representatives.

A major sticking point in the Floyd bill was legislation to lower the standard of qualified immunity, which legally protects law enforcement from civil cases. Last month, Democratic U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts introduced a bill to end qualified immunity. At a press conference on Capitol Hill, Pressley said it was rooted in our countrys legacy of slavery and racial terror.

In any other job in America, there are standards of conduct and consequences for failing to meet them, the congresswoman argued. Doctors can be sued for malpractice, lawyers can be sued for negligence, and policing should be no exceptions.

She continued, If people are truly serious about the racial reckoning they continue to reference, this is how we get at that.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post What Tim Scotts exploratory presidential committee means for Black voters appeared first on TheGrio.
The looming end of Title 42 is framing the immigration debate ahead of 2024, even before its consequences are fully known.

Across the political spectrum, the relatively small policy change is being treated as a harbinger of doom and chaos at the border.

Warnings about the end of Title 42 have ranged from the pragmatic  Texas Democratic Reps. Joaquin Castro and Greg Casar have called for $38 million in preemptive Federal Emergency Management Agency funding  to the theatrical, with former Vice President Mike Pence warning that a storm is coming.

In March, U.S. officials encountered more than 191,000 migrants at the border with Mexico; administration officials have said they expect that number to go up significantly with the end of Title 42 on Thursday.

Yet border experts are uncertain about how the policy change will affect conditions on the ground, though most agree that a rise in crossings is likely, potentially through the summer.

Under Title 42, border officials are allowed to expel migrants they encounter at the border immediately, rather than processing them and giving them a chance to claim asylum.

The Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have been implementing both Title 42  an authority granted to them under the guise of pandemic protections  and Title 8, the regular processing statute for undocumented immigrants at the border.

In April, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that in response to the end of Title 42, it plans to carry out expedited removals using Title 8 authorities and establish two regional centers in Guatemala and Colombia where migrants can apply for asylum or other avenues to immigrate to the U.S.

Both titles of authority allow quick processing (either a summary expulsion under Title 42, or an expedited removal under Title 8) with the difference being that expedited removals create a paper trail and require screening for asylum claims.

Biden administration officials say the stiffer penalties of Title 8 removals, which carry a five-year bar on entering the United States, paired with better avenues to seek legal pathways to enter the U.S. will relieve pressure at the border.

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But activists are warning against those stiffer penalties, particularly the increased use of immigration detention.

A coalition of more than 240 nongovernmental organizations plans to announce Monday a plea to the Biden administration to avoid the use of immigrant detention to deal with post-Title 42 migrants.

Mass detention of immigrants and asylum seekers places the United States further at odds with international norms and treaty obligations, wrote the groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, Amnesty International and the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC).

Detention places people in conditions known to cause mental and physical harm and endanger their lives. Detention is not a deterrent to migrants who have no choice but to flee dangerous or violent conditions in search of a better life.

With the end of Title 42, migrant crossings could rise for two main reasons: disinformation among migrants at the border and a bottleneck effect created by the implementation of Title 42.

Federal officials fear that smugglers and word of mouth among migrants have spread the belief that the end of Title 42 means an open border, or that mandatory asylum screenings are a backdoor into the United States.

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, policy director with the American Immigration Council, said migration at the border is likely to tick up in the days following the end of Title 42, but thats partially because of the bottleneck created by blocking asylum seekers, resulting in large numbers of people whove been waiting for months and months at the border.

There have been a lot of people who have been stuck in Mexico who have been waiting for Title 42 to end, because everyones known that eventually this was going to have to happen. I think were already seeing a significant increase in numbers, as that backlog essentially clears out in northern Mexico in the days following the end of Title 42, he said on a call with reporters this week.

And then, my expectation is that numbers will then fall as the administration imposes these so-called harsher consequences at the border.

Acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller in April cited a U.N. figure that up to 660,000 migrants, including about 280,000 internally displaced Mexicans, were currently traversing Mexico en route to the U.S.

But thats only a couple of months worth of migration. Everyone whos bottled up couldve been gone in a couple of months, said Adam Isacson, director of defense oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America.

And for the majority of people whove been expelled under Title 42 in recent months, the switch back to Title 8 is likely to deter them from crossing.

In March, 87,661 people were processed using Title 42, 60,958 of whom were Mexican nationals, and 56,177 were Mexican single adults.

Mexican nationals are broadly ineligible for asylum in the United States, meaning that in almost all cases, they would not pass a credible fear test to start their formal asylum claims, regardless of how they are processed by border authorities.

And the lack of paperwork for Title 42 expulsions of Mexican nationals has generated recidivism: Mexican nationals crossing the border and attempting another crossing if they are unsuccessful the first time.

Still, in Washington and some state capitals, the end of Title 42 has been treated as the type of brewing storm Pence described.

A bill from Sens. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) would mimic Title 42 by creating a two-year authority that would allow DHS to rapidly expel migrants without allowing them to seek asylum.

Unlike the emergency public health order that underpins Title 42 and expires May 11, the new legislation would not rely on any public health authorities but otherwise keeps the crux of the policy: a bar on seeking asylum combined with swift expulsion.

House Republicans last week also unveiled their own border package, combining several bills that collectively force the completion of former President Trumps border wall, use various methods to limit asylum and block funding to any nonprofit that helps migrants navigate the U.S. immigration system.

That package contrasted with the Biden administrations emphasis on regional migration controls  the White House released a memo Friday outlining its plan, rooted in enforcement, deterrence and diplomacy.

House Republicans are pushing a MAGA agenda of chaos and inaction. They are playing politics when they should be joining the President in pursuing real solutions,  and they should answer for their repeated attempts to open our borders, concluded the White House memo.

While the diplomatic aspect of the administrations plan has encouraged some progressives on immigration, frustration abounds among advocates over the administrations reliance on deterrent measures that attempt to scare off migrants.

That and the use of active-duty troops to support Border Patrol and CBP have caused some Democrats to cry foul, saying the administrations actions perpetuate the false image of migrants as a threat to national security.

The administrations insistence on treating migrants as a threat  implicitly siding with the Republican assessment of the problem, though presenting an alternate slate of policy solutions  is a missed opportunity, according to advocates.

The end of Title 42 is an opportunity, not a threat  an opportunity for our leaders to stand up and affirm the United Statess role as a country that welcomes those seeking safety and embraces human rights, said Heidi Altman, director of policy at NIJC.

Instead, were stuck on a repeat loop of punitive policies driven by fear and hateful rhetoric. Its shameful to see our elected officials turning to worn-out, cruel policies when constituents and communities are doing the real work of welcoming and integration, with very little support from the federal government.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Tom Cruise had a need for speed fulfilled Sunday as he walked the grid at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Miami, Florida.

The 60-year-old "Mission: Impossible" actor mingled with Shakira, Serena Williams, Venus Williams, and LL Cool J at the Miami International Autodrome where Red Bull's Max Verstappen finished the race in first place.

Earlier reports had Cruise scheduled to attend King Charles' coronation this weekend in London, but he instead opted to send his royal pal a special video message played during the coronation concert.

LIONEL RICHIE, KATY PERRY CLOSE CORONATION WITH FIREWORKS; TOM CRUISE SENDS KING CHARLES SPECIAL SHOUT OUT

Tom Cruise spent coronation weekend in Miami at the Formula 1 race.

Sitting in the cockpit of his own airplane while flying through the clouds, Cruise paid homage to his iconic "Top Gun" character as he congratulated King Charles III.

"Pilot to pilot, Your Majesty, you can be my wingman any time," Cruise said before dipping out into the clouds.

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ROYAL FAMILY CELEBRATES KING CHARLES' CORONATION; PRINCE GEORGE, PRINCESS CHARLOTTE STEAL SHOW

The "Jerry Maguire" star has a long history with the royals , and hosted an early screening of "Top Gun: Maverick" for the Prince and Princess of Wales last year.

Tom Cruise missed King Charles' coronation, but was in attendance at the F1 Grand Prix in Miami.

Tom Cruise catches up with Shakira at the FI races in Miami

Shakira recently moved back to the US following her split from ex Gerard Pique.

His link to the royals dates back more than 30 years when he first met the late Princess Diana at the London premiere of "Far and Away" with his ex-wife, Nicole Kidman.

Cruise formed a friendship with Prince William after learning that the Prince of Wales previously serves as a pilot with the Royal Air Force.

The "Top Gun: Maverick" premiere came days after Cruise played a role in a royal event during the late Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee.

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Cruise introduced the Kings Troop Royal Artillery at the "A Gallop Through History" Platinum Jubilee celebration at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Shakira recently moved back to the United States after breaking up with ex Gerard Pique due to infidelity allegations.

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Cruise has been linked to the royal family since the early days of his career when he and then-wife Nicole Kidman met Princess Diana at the London premiere of their 1992 movie "Far and Away."

Kate shared a laugh with Tom Cruise at the "Top Gun: Maverick" premiere in London.

Vin Diesel showed off his muscles in a white tank top.

Ludacris and Michelle Rodriguez join forces at F1 Grand Prix in Miami.

"Fast & Furious" stars Vin Diesel, Ludacris and Michelle Rodriguez also hit the tracks Sunday ahead of the "Fast X" premiere.

FinanceBuzz, a website offering a wide-range of economical tips, recently put out a call for a "Fast and Furious claims adjuster" to not only binge-watch the 10 movies in the franchise, but also take note of damages from all the car crashes in the more than 20 hours of footage in the films.

"Well pay our Fast & Furious Claims Adjuster $1,000, plus $100 to cover the cost of any streaming fees, movie tickets, and snacks," FinanceBuzz said in a press release.

"As a bonus, youll get a healthy education about the value of family."
Vashtie Kola. Nicholas Rhodes/Getty Images

Vashtie Kola directed music videos with Kendrick Lamar and Rihanna and is the first woman to design Air Jordans.

Named one of New York Magazine's "It Girls," Kola became famous for her monthly "1992" parties.

Kola spoke with Insider reporter Yoonji Han about embracing her Trinidadian roots and finding her style.

This is an as-told-to essay based on a conversation with Vashtie Kola, a music video director, filmmaker, artist, designer, and DJ. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My parents immigrated from Trinidad to upstate New York, where we lived in a predominantly Black American and Afro-Jamaican community. My dad is ethnically Indian and my mom is Indian and African, but growing up, I was confused because I didn't understand how the cultures came together. There was never an explanation of why we ate curry dishes while my Black friends ate more American food, and my Indian classmates often wondered why I was eating the same food they did.

It wasn't until I took a trip to Trinidad and saw the intermingling of cultures  and people who looked like me  that I started to understand. As much as I'd wanted to blend in and be American, I discovered I don't have to explain my culture, my food, my mom's accent.

Vashtie Kola as a child, bottom left, with her mother and older sister. Courtesy of Vashtie Kola

My growing understanding of my culture influenced my style: I started wearing Indian gold, which is very common in the Caribbean, as well as fabrics from Trinidad. I listened to music from Trinidad and across the Caribbean, like soca, calypso, and dance hall.

I've always been an artist, and, after college, I really dived into exploring more of my culture through art. After graduating from film school, I made a music video for Caribbean artists that featured Rihanna. We were able to recreate the dance hall style for the video, which I was really excited about.

Creating a party for tastemakers and celebrities

Vashtie Kola. Angelo Baque

I started "1992," a monthly '90s-themed party, as a sort of revolt against the way New York City nightlife was back in the early 2000s. Most clubs had a dress code, VIP line, and bottle service  the whole system was a huge turnoff to me.

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I got turned away from nightclubs because I wore sneakers and a T-shirt, which went against the "club clothes" of skintight dresses and heels. I was very anti-that, and I wanted to create a space where people could just come as they were, and not spend a ton of money, or wait in a VIP line.

At first, I wasn't DJing, because I didn't feel like it was a space for me.

In hip hop culture, it's all about being authentic and keeping it real. I grew up respecting hip hop culture and its four pillars  DJing, emceeing, b-boying, and graffiti  and it didn't feel authentic for me to just show up with a laptop and suddenly be a DJ.

It wasn't until Q-Tip, who is hugely respected and talented and is a mentor of mine, encouraged me that I felt like it was the "okay" I needed to get into DJing.

Now, I'm creating mixes of Caribbean songs with tracks from artists I grew up listening to, like Nas, Biggie, Rakeem, and Depeche Mode. My brother, who's gay, also turned me onto voguing and house music, so those are elements I include, as well.

Vashtie Kola performs at House Party NYC at Webster Hall on February 12, 2015. Nicky Digital/Corbis via Getty Images

The first woman to design Air Jordans

The "1992" parties put me on the radar of New York City nightlife, but becoming the first woman to design Jordans has always been the proudest moment of my career.

Growing up, I couldn't afford name-brand anything. I was 14 when I bought name-brand sneakers for the first time, and I couldn't buy myself Jordans until I was 18.

The opportunity came around in the 2000s, when I became known for my style and as the girl who hung out downtown. Style is unique; it's an expression. It often speaks before you do, so it's an important element for everyone. It can be reflected in clothing, the way you communicate, your energy.

I worked at Stussy in college, and grew up as a kid obsessed with streetwear and sneakers. At the time, no one really wore sneakers, like they do now. But I didn't wear what most people wore, which helped me stand out.

Vashtie x Puma Fashion Show, 2015, New York City. Daniel Zuchnik/WireImage

In 2009, I was planning a birthday party for myself, and I wanted a giant cake in the shape of my favorite sneaker: the Jordan 3. It was huge; I was so in love with the cake, I wouldn't even let anyone cut into it. I brought it home to try to save it, which didn't work out because I got home and it didn't fit into my fridge.

It's funny because certain blogs like Hypebeast covered the party, and a month later I was invited to Kanye's birthday party and he had a cake version of his Yeezys, which I was like, "Okay, you got inspired by me and that's fine."

Kola, Q-Tip, and Rob Young at Kola's birthday party with her Jordan 3 sneaker cake. Johnny Nunez/WireImage

The cake led to a conversation with a friend who just so happened to be working at Jordan, who said we should collaborate. The next day, I was on the phone discussing designs to celebrate the anniversary of the Jordan 2.

I picked violet because the color  a blend of feminine red and masculine blue  was always important to me as a tomboy.

When I launched my clothing brand, Violette, I kept that unisex, because I'd been wearing men's clothes for so long, I didn't see the difference between men's versus women's. The color violet is a blurring of worlds.

I also added elements to the Jordans that represent celebrations of anniversaries, like silver threaded through the laces and amber emblems in the shoe's sole.

Vashtie's Jordan 2 sneakers. Courtesy of Vashtie Kola

From tomboy to 'It Girl'

When I first got the title of "It Girl" from The Cut in 2014, I was excited and honored. I wanted to be an example for other girls, to show them they could do what I was doing, because I didn't have that growing up.

At some point in my career, I wanted to be anonymous and work under a pseudonym, especially when I was starting my career directing music videos.

But then I started to realize there were other young people who identified with me, whether they were Caribbean or Asian or white. People wrote messages on my blog from all over the world, like, "I totally identify with you. I want to dress like this but my parents don't understand," or, "They don't understand what kind of music I listen to."

I also felt like being seen as an "It Girl" was great for other people who also don't feel like they fit into the mold. My sense of an "It Girl" at the time was of girls who came from famous or rich families. Me being the complete opposite of that, it felt like a triumph for me and people like me.

It's funny seeing myself lined up with certain people in New York Magazine's roundup, because I never felt like I was part of that  they felt out of my league. They came from rich families, with last names that meant something, and I once rolled up onto a red carpet event in motorcycle boots and denim cutoffs. So it felt like it was a win for my culture, and for other brown and Black folks who don't see themselves as people who could be in that category.

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Joe Loree wanted to avoid the aggressive treatment for prostate cancer that he had seen his brother and friend undergo, and opted for a more conservative approach called active surveillance. (Jim Wilson/The New York Times)

Last summer, Joe Loree made an appointment to see his urologist. Hed occasionally noticed blood in his urine and wanted to have that checked out. His doctor ordered a prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, test to measure a protein in his blood that might indicate prostate cancer  or a number of more benign conditions.

It came back somewhat elevated, said Loree, 68, an instructional designer who lives in Berkeley, California. A biopsy found a few cancer cells, a minuscule amount, he recalled.

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Loree was at very low risk, but nobody likes hearing the C-word. Its unsettling to think theres cancer growing within me, he said.

But because his brother and a friend had both been diagnosed with prostate cancer and had undergone aggressive treatment that he preferred to avoid, Loree felt comfortable with a more conservative approach called active surveillance.

It typically means periodic PSA assessments and biopsies, often with MRIs and other tests, to watch for signs that the cancer may be progressing. His hasnt, so now he can get PSA tests every six months instead of every three.

Research shows that a growing proportion of men with low-risk prostate cancer are opting for active surveillance, as medical guidelines now recommend.

The diagnosis used to lead directly to aggressive treatment. As recently as 2010, about 90% of men with low-risk prostate cancer underwent immediate surgery to remove the prostate gland (a prostatectomy) or received radiation treatment, sometimes with hormone therapy.

But between 2014 and 2021, the proportion of men at low risk of the cancer who chose active surveillance rose to nearly 60% from about 27%, according to a study using data from the American Urological Associations national registry.

Definitely progress but its still not where we need to be, said Dr. Matthew Cooperberg, a urologic oncologist at the University of California, San Francisco, and lead author of the study.

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Changing medical practice often takes a frustratingly long time. In the study, 40% of men with low-risk prostate cancer still had invasive treatment. And approaches vary enormously between urology practices.

The proportion of men under active surveillance ranges from 0% to 100%, depending on which urologist you happen to see, Cooperberg said. Which is ridiculous.

The latest results of a large British study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, provide additional support for surveillance. Researchers followed more than 1,600 men with localized prostate cancer who, from 1999 to 2009, received what they called active monitoring, a prostatectomy or radiation with hormone therapy.

Over an exceptionally long follow-up averaging 15 years, fewer than 3% of the men, whose average age at diagnosis was 62, had died of prostate cancer. The differences between the three treatment groups were not statistically significant.

Although the cancer in the surveillance group was more likely to metastasize, it didnt lead to higher mortality. The benefit of treatment in this population is just not apparent, said Dr. Oliver Sartor, an oncologist at the Mayo Clinic who specializes in prostate cancer and who wrote an editorial accompanying the study.

It doesnt help people live longer, Sartor said of the treatment, probably because of what is known as competing mortality, the likelihood of dying from something else first.

Men whose PSA readings and other test results indicate higher-risk tumors, or who have family histories of prostate cancer deaths, fall into a different category, experts cautioned.

The point of screening is to find the aggressive tumors  a small minority, but they kill more men than any other cancer except lung cancer, Cooperberg said.

But most prostate cancer grows so slowly, if it grows at all, that other illnesses are likely to prove lethal first, especially among older men. During the British study, 1 in 5 men died from other causes, predominantly cardiovascular or respiratory diseases and other cancers.

Thats why guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American College of Physicians recommend against routine prostate cancer screening for men over 69 or 70, or for men who have less than a 10- to 15-year life expectancy. (Men ages 55 to 69 are advised to discuss the harms and benefits with health care providers before deciding to be screened.)

Newly revised guidelines from the American Urological Association recommend shared decision-making after age 69, taking into account age, life expectancy, other risk factors and patients preferences.

If you live long enough, prostate cancer is almost a normal feature of aging, Cooperberg explained. By the 70s or 80s, half of all men have some cancer cells in their prostates.

Most of those tumors are deemed indolent, meaning that they dont spread or cause bothersome symptoms.

Nevertheless, about half of men over 70 continue PSA screening, according to a new study in JAMA Network Open. Though testing declined with age, they really shouldnt be getting screened at this rate, said lead author Sandhya Kalavacherla, a medical student at the University of California, San Diego.

Even among men over 80, almost 40% were still getting routine PSA tests. An elevated PSA reading can prompt a cascade of subsequent tests and treatments, because cancer is an emotionally charged term, Sartor acknowledged. He still sees patients, he said, whose response to very low-risk cancer is, I want it out, now.

But treatment involves significant side effects, which often ease after the first year or two but may persist or even intensify. The British data showed, for instance, that six months after treatment, urinary leakage requiring pads affected roughly half of the men whod had a prostatectomy, compared with 5% of those who underwent radiation and 4% of those under active surveillance.

After six years, 17% of the prostatectomy group still needed pads; among those under active surveillance, it was 8%, and 4% in the radiation group.

Similarly, men under active surveillance were more likely to retain the ability to have erections, though all three groups reported decreased sexual function with age. After 12 years, men in the radiation group were twice as likely, at 12%, to report fecal leakage as men in the other groups.

The financial costs of unnecessary testing and treatment also run high, as an analysis of claims from a large Medicare Advantage program demonstrate. The study, recently published in JAMA Network Open, looked at payments for regular PSA screening and related services for men over 70 with no preexisting prostate problems.

The initial screening, which is unnecessary, triggers these follow-up services, a series of events catalyzed by anxiety, said David Kim, a health economist at the University of Chicago and lead author of the study. The further it progresses, the harder it is to stop.

From 2016 to 2018, each dollar spent on a PSA test on men over 70 generated another $6 spent for additional PSA tests, imaging, radiation and surgery.

Extrapolated to traditional Medicare beneficiaries, Medicare could have spent $46 million for PSA tests for men over 70 and $275 million in follow-up care, Kim said.

We need to change the incentives, how providers get paid, he said.

He suggested that refusing to reimburse them for procedures that receive low recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force could mean fewer inappropriate PSA tests and less aggressive treatment in their wake.

Some urologists and oncologists have called for a different kind of shift  in nomenclature. Why are we even calling it cancer in the first place? asked Sartor, who has argued against using the word for small, low-risk tumors in the prostate.

A less frightening label  indolent lesions of epithelial origin, or IDLE, was one suggestion  could leave patients less inclined to see test results as lethal portents and more willing to carefully track a common condition that might never lead to an operating room or a radiation center.

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Tracy Moore has shared an inspirational body-positive message about embracing her 'stomach rolls.' (Instagram/ @thetracymoore)

Tracy Moore and her tummy "are friends."

Over the weekend, the "Cityline" host, 48, took to Instagram with a carousel of candid photos of herself, proudly showing off her "stomach rolls." Moore paired it with an inspirational body-positive message for her 153,000 followers.

In the post, Moore included snaps of herself wearing a pair of lime green trousers, a white floral camisole and white stilettos. She also included screenshots of messages she received from fans thanking her for her body-championing content.

"I have been struggling with weight gain since starting menopause six years ago," one person shared with Moore, according to the posted screenshot. "You gave me confidence to feel good about myself again."

"Thank you so much for giving me back my life and for helping me realize that it's ok to look the way I do and wear what I would like to wear," another wrote.

In the caption, Moore penned an anecdote about a professor she had in university who became her "body goals" for looking "comfortable and unbothered" with her stomach rolls.

"She wore a turtleneck tucked into pants," she wrote. "In clear view of hundreds of students she sat at the front of the hall with three mid-section rolls. One, two, three. She looked comfortable and unbothered."

"I remember 21-year-old me holding onto that image of stomach rolls and confidence. Somewhere deep down she became my body goals," Moore continued.

The Canadian TV host explained that if ever she felt comfortable enough to put her stomach rolls on display as her former professor did, she would feel accomplished.

"I asked my producer to grab a shot of me this week sitting like this. Its sometimes a struggle to show up publicly with a publicly changing body," she shared. "My body has carried two pregnancies, lost one and is now perimenopausal in front of an audience."

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Moore added despite there being "an immense amount" of pressure on women to feel ashamed of their stomach rolls, "I didn't feel like sucking in or sitting in a way that might hide my stomach."

"I call that a win," she concluded. "Tomorrow I may not feel the same and thats ok because today me and my tummy are friends."

Fans met Moore's message with applause for her vulnerability, including fellow Canadian body-positivity advocate Sarah Nicole Landry  also known as The Birds Papaya.

"I appreciate you so much," Landry commented.

"Could not love you more, Tracy. Your vulnerability and confidence are lessons to us all!," another Instagram user wrote.

Someone else added: "Everything about this is so real!"

"Thank you for sharing this," another fan penned. "I'm so happy to see you unapologetically talk about this!"

Last month, Moore shared another body-positive Instagram post that garnered praise from fans. The mom-of-two revealed her "hot tip" for managing the symptoms of perimenopause in a sun-soaked video of herself sitting in her backyard.

"There is absolutely no God-given reason for my grumpiness so Im choosing not to investigate," Moore wrote in the caption.

"My hot tip is: I don't ask why. I don't ask why I'm feeling off today. I don't ask why I'm irritated," she said in the clip.

"I accept it. I have sequestered myself from my family."

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Writer E. Jean Carroll arrives at Manhattan federal court for the start of jury selection in her rape and defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump on April 25 2023

A lawyer for Donald Trump's rape accuser urged a New York jury to find the ex-president liable for damages in closing arguments in a US civil trial Monday.

"No one, not even a former president, is above the law," E. Jean Carroll's attorney, Roberta Kaplan, told the Manhattan federal court.

Carroll, 79, sued Trump last year alleging that he raped her in a New York department store in the mid-1990s.

The former columnist for Elle magazine also claims that Trump defamed her when he accused her of lying after she went public with the allegation in 2019.

Trump has not been criminally prosecuted and has repeatedly denied the allegations, often referring to Carroll as "not my type."

"The truth is" she "was exactly his type," Kaplan said to the nine jurors who are due to begin deliberating on Tuesday.

Trump's lawyers are due to make their closing arguments later Monday.

Carroll's suit seeks unspecified damages for psychological trauma and other harm and asks that Trump retract his comments.

Over two weeks of proceedings the court heard from Carroll and two other women who claimed they had been sexually assaulted by Trump decades ago.

Trump denies all allegations of sexual misconduct and did not take the stand during the trial.

No criminal prosecution can stem from the case but if the jury sides with Carroll then it will be the first time Trump has been held legally liable for an allegation of sexual assault.

The case is one of several legal challenges facing the 76-year-old Republican as he seeks a return to the White House in next year's election.

Last month, he pleaded not guilty in a criminal case related to a hush-money payment made to a porn star just before the 2016 vote.

Trump is also being investigated over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in the southern state of Georgia, his alleged mishandling of classified documents taken from the White House and his involvement in the storming of the US Capitol by his supporters on January 6, 2021.

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Writer E. Jean Carroll arrives at Manhattan federal court for the start of jury selection in her rape and defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump on April 25 2023

A US court heard closing arguments Monday in a closely watched civil trial that accuses ex-president Donald Trump of raping and defaming an American former magazine columnist.

Lawyers for accuser E. Jean Carroll urged the nine-person jury to find Trump liable for the alleged sexual assault in a New York department store in the mid-1990s.

"No one, not even a former president, is above the law," attorney Roberta Kaplan told the Manhattan federal court.

Carroll, 79, sued Trump last year, alleging that he raped her in the changing room of the luxury Bergdorf Goodman store on Fifth Avenue in either late 1995 or early 1996.

The former columnist for Elle magazine also claims that Trump defamed her when he called her "a complete con job" after she went public with the allegation in 2019.

Trump has not been criminally prosecuted and has repeatedly denied the allegations, often referring to Carroll as "not my type."

"The truth is," Carroll "was exactly his type," Kaplan said to the jurors who will begin deliberating on Tuesday.

Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina said in the defense's closing arguments that there was no evidence an assault occurred and accused Carroll of wanting to derail Trump's 2024 White House race.

He asked the jury to use their "common sense," saying that if Trump had raped Carroll in a public place, then he would have been "immediately arrested."

Carroll's suit seeks unspecified damages for "significant pain and suffering, lasting psychological and pecuniary harms, loss of dignity and self-esteem, and invasion of her privacy." It also asks that Trump retract his comments.

During the two-week trial, the court heard from Carroll and two other women who claimed they had been sexually assaulted by Trump decades ago.

- 'Liar' -

Carroll said from the witness stand that the alleged rape had left her feeling "ashamed" and unable to have romantic relationships.

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She said it took her more than 20 years to go public because she was "frightened" by Trump.

No criminal prosecution can stem from Carroll's civil case but if Trump loses, it will be the first time he has ever been held legally liable for an allegation of sexual assault.

Around a dozen women accused Trump of sexual misconduct ahead of the 2016 election. He has denied all the allegations and has never been prosecuted over any of them.

Trump did not give evidence in court but sat for a sworn deposition last October, in which he called Carroll "a liar" and "really sick person."

The case is one of several legal challenges facing the 76-year-old Republican as he seeks to regain the presidency in next year's election.

Last month, he pleaded not guilty in a criminal case related to a hush-money payment made to a porn star just before the 2016 vote.

Trump is also being investigated over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss in the southern state of Georgia, his alleged mishandling of classified documents taken from the White House and his involvement in the storming of the US Capitol by his supporters on January 6, 2021.

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Donald Trump on Monday congratulated his wife Melania Trump for a great job as first lady after he appeared to have snubbed her on her birthday once again.

The former president of the United States wrote on Truth Social that the former first lady was doing the great job specifically with her Be Best initiative, an anti-bullying campaign launched during the Trump presidency that was frequently derided due to her husbands well-known bullying style on the campaign trail.

His post notably came just a few days after Ms Trump celebrated her 53rd birthday with a small gathering of friends at Mar-a-Lago. Her husband went the entire day without acknowledging her on social media, despite the frequency of his posting.

According to People magazine, it wasnt even clear if Mr Trump attended the celebration itself  representatives confirmed to the magazine only that the former president would attend if his schedule permitted.

This latest snub of his wifes birthday is far from the first awkward moment to occur on Melanias (supposedly) special day. In 2018, Mr Trump admitted that he had forgotten her birthday that year until just immediately beforehand, resulting in her only receiving flowers and a card.

The following year, the president marked his wifes birthday by inviting the prime minister of Japan to the White House for a state dinner, eschewing the private moments that other presidents and their loved ones have shared.

A source told People that Melania likes a low-key celebration with family and that I believe is her plan for this years birthday.

If Donald is here, he will be joining the family to celebrate his wifes birthday. Despite what you hear, the Trumps are a close family, the source claimed.

One reason for Mr Trumps apparent distraction could be the cascade of legal battles he currently faces.

After becoming the first ex-president to come under criminal indictment last month, Mr Trump now awaits a decision by a district attorney in Georgia regarding whether he and/or members of his former legal team will face criminal charges over their attempts to interfere with the results of the 2020 election.
Former President Trumps attorney Monday called writer E. Jean Carrolls claim that Trump raped her decades ago an affront to justice that minimizes real rape victims.

In his closing arguments, Joe Tacopina dismissed Carrolls federal civil trial against Trump as a scam of a lawsuit based on an unbelievable story.

What they want is for you to hate him enough to ignore the facts, Tacopina said.

Carroll is suing for battery and defamation over claims Trump raped her a Bergdorf Goodman department store in New York in 1996; Trump has denied the claims.

Carrolls attorney, Roberta Kaplan, showed the jury the 2005 Access Hollywood video that shows Trump saying celebrities can grab women by the genitals without consent.

Thats who Donald Trump is. That is how he thinks. And thats what he does, Kaplan said. He thinks he can get away with it here.

The trial opened late last month, and jurors are expected to start deliberations Tuesday.

The Associated Press contributed.

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Donald Trump will not testify in writer E. Jean Carroll's civil defamation and battery case against him, after a Sunday afternoon deadline passed without the former president filing a motion to reopen the case.

The two sides each rested their case on Thursday after Trump declined to testify in his own defense, but Judge Lewis Kaplan gave Trump until Sunday to reconsider, setting an afternoon deadline for Trump to file a motion to reopen the case for the sole purpose of testifying, in light of remarks Trump made while golfing in Europe suggesting he would return to New York to confront his accuser.

MORE: Repairing Trump's alleged damage to E. Jean Carroll's reputation could cost up to $2.7 million, expert testifies

Carroll, who brought the lawsuit in November, alleges that Trump defamed her in his Truth Social post by calling her allegations "a Hoax and a lie" and saying "This woman is not my type!" when he denied her claim that Trump raped her in a Bergdorf Goodman dressing room in the 1990s.

The former Elle magazine columnist added a charge of battery under a recently adopted New York law that allows adult survivors of sexual abuse to sue their alleged attacker regardless of the statute of limitations. Trump has denied all allegations that he raped Carroll or defamed her.

PHOTO: FILE - Former advice columnist E. Jean Carroll arrives at the Manhattan federal court for her lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, May 4, 2023, in New York. (John Minchillo/AP, FILE)

Each side is expected to deliver closing statements Monday. The judge is then expected to charge the jury on Tuesday, followed by the start of deliberations.

This month's trial is taking place as Trump seeks the White House for a third time, while facing numerous legal challenges related to the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, his handling of classified material after leaving the White House, and possible attempts to interfere in Georgia's 2020 vote.

Trump won't testify in E. Jean Carroll trial after judge's deadline passes originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The Tumwater Police Department said officers received reports Monday morning of a juvenile heading toward Tumwater Middle School armed with a handgun. It turned out to be a toy, police said.

School administration sent an email to families at 8 a.m., which was obtained by The Olympian. It says the school went into a lockout. Students on site were brought into the school, then all exterior doors were locked. Those who were on buses werent allowed to get off until the situation had been cleared.

Police said a School Resource Officer was on campus, and they were assisted by additional Tumwater police officers.

The juvenile was located soon after being reported, and police found that he had a toy that looked like a handgun. The police department said at no time were any threats made to the school or any students.

The email from the school district said the incident should be seen as a learning opportunity for everyone.

This is a great learning opportunity for us of the importance of See Something, Say Something and that even a joke can create a large disruption to the school process, the email said.
(Bloomberg) -- Turkish opposition candidate Ekrem Imamoglu was pelted with stones at a rally, prompting him to abandon a campaign speech one week before President Recep Tayyip Erdogan seeks another term in a general election.

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Imamoglu, who is the mayor of Istanbul, blamed the attack in the eastern city of Erzurum on the municipality, run by the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP, and local police. About a dozen people, including children, were wounded, according to Imamoglus CHP party.

The municipality brought public buses to the square where Imamoglu had scheduled Sundays rally. When we arrived, stones rained down from everywhere, he said afterward. None of the police moved a muscle.

Erdogan has led Turkey for 20 years and is facing the broadest grouping of opposition parties yet in presidential and parliamentary elections on May 14. Imamoglu has been campaigning as vice presidential candidate on behalf of opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

Imamoglu vowed to file legal complaints against the police chief and the governor of the city, who he said didnt intervene to stop the mob.

Other opposition leaders also raised security concerns before the election.

Bringing change to the country has a price. We are all ready to pay it, Kilicdaroglu said on Twitter. Temel Karamollaoglu, leader of the Felicity Party, condemned the attack as a provocation.

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ISTANBUL (AP)  More than a dozen people have been detained over violence against an opposition election rally in Turkeys eastern city of Erzurum over the weekend, the countrys justice minister said Monday. Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu of the main opposition Republican Peoples Party, CHP, was speaking atop a campaign bus Sunday afternoon when a large group of roughly 200 protesters began throwing rocks. Imamoglu was campaigning on behalf of CHP leader and presidential candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the main opponent to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, days before the May 14 presidential and parliamentary elections. He maintained that police and pro-Erdogan officials in Erzurum allowed the attack to go ahead. There are citizens here who are injured, and you police are just standing by, Imamoglu is heard saying in footage of the incident. Erzurum governor, Erzurum mayor, I will be filing a criminal complaint against you. The video later shows Imamoglu being taken inside by his entourage and the bus driving off, with police later dispersing the group with water cannons. Seven people were injured in the incident, according to Erzurum Governor Okay Memis. Speaking on local news channel A Haber Monday morning, Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag announced that the investigation was ongoing and 13 people had been detained so far.

Kilicdaroglu posted a video on social media following Sundays incident where he accused the mob responsible of being a militarist coalition who seeks to scare people away from the ballot box. Speaking on a television program later in the evening, Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu claimed the incident was theater. They provoke such incidents, then they claim they did this to us, they did that to us ... They had put forward a speech that was meant to agitate, to provoke the crowd. The contest is currently neck-and-neck. If Erdogan wins, it would be his third consecutive term as president. However, opinion polls give a slight lead to Kilicdaroglu.
A longtime respected career diplomat, who first entered Haitis foreign service in 1982 as an assistant commercial attache at Haitis embassy in Washington, has been tapped by the government to represent the countrys interests in the United States as its top diplomat.

Louis Harold Joseph has been named acting charge daffaires at the Haiti embassy in the United States. He is expected to arrive at the post later this week after saying his goodbyes in The Bahamas, where he was in charge of Haitis embassy.

Because Haiti currently has no elected officials, including a president or parliament, Joseph cannot be named ambassador, a title he previously held both at the embassy in Washington and The Bahamas during his career. He has also headed the Haiti mission in Japan.

In his new role, Joseph replaces Bochitt Edmond, Haitis former ambassador to the U.S., who was abruptly recalled back to Port-au-Prince and then fired  at the request of the U.S. State Department after being implicated in a money-laundering scheme and clandestine passport-production operation inside the Haitian embassy.

Edmond has strongly denied the allegations, which also implicated his sister, Betyna Edmond, and several other employees, including the head of the consular section, Gelorme Juste. All are expected to face wider scrutiny as Haitis anti-corruption unit and government auditors carry out separate investigations in the coming weeks.

A Haitian government inquiry in August 2021 accused Bocchit Edmond of profiting from the unsanctioned scheme, which involved embassy staffers producing passports for Haitians living outside the United States and charging bribes to expedite them. The scheme was first discovered by U.S. federal agents when U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized documents and $50,000 cash addressed to Justes Washington-area home.

Joseph, who is originally from Cap-Haitien and is an economist by training, is no stranger to working in Washington  or being tapped to clean up diplomatic scandals on behalf of Haitian governments. Through his lengthy career, he has held at least five different positions inside the Haiti embassy in Washington including serving as charge daffaires between 1997-2002 and as ambassador between September 2010 and November 2011 under President Rene Preval.

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Given the circumstances, Harold is the most appropriate person to assume the transition: The least political and the most knowledgeable Haitian diplomat regarding the U.S., said Fritz Longchamp, a former chief of staff for Preval who once served as Haitis foreign minister.

Joseph has the skills and the integrity for the job, Longchamp said.

Prior to becoming Haitis ambassador to the U.S. nine months after the devastating Jan. 12, 2010, earthquake, Joseph served eight years as ambassador to The Bahamas, during which time he also was resident dean of the diplomatic corps from 2007-10. In The Bahamas, Joseph had to navigate thorny relations between Haiti and one of one of its closest Caribbean neighbors as the archipelago struggled to combat illegal migration from Haiti.

He also was ambassador when The Bahamas hosted a meeting between then-President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and Caribbean Community leaders as they tried to mediate the political crisis that eventually led to the 2004 ouster of Aristide.

Last year, Joseph was once more called upon by Haitian authorities to provide assistance with Haitian-Bahamian relations when at least 17 Florida-bound Haitians died in a July migrant-boat smuggling operation off the coast of Nassau, and the local Haitian government representative fumbled the response, further angering Bahamian government officials.

As Haitis top representative in Washington, Joseph will not only have to lead clean up efforts inside the embassy, where many others are expected to be dismissed or transferred over the passport scandal, but work with the foreign ministry to convey the Ariel Henry governments position. Internationally, the government is facing increased pressure to broaden a political agreement and to hold elections. At home, Haitians are demanding relief from violent gangs, deepening hunger and a collapsing economy.

On Monday, four additional armored vehicles purchased by the government from a supplier in Canada were flown to Port-au-Prince aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 as part of a mission requested by the U.S. State Department Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, a spokesperson with U.S. Southern Command confirmed.

In a separate statement, following last months U.N. Security Council meeting in which Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for international forces to be deployed to help the Haitian police, the Council showed no signs that outside help was coming. Instead, members expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation, and called on Haitis political actors to come together and find away out of the crisis.
A girl runs as other shoppers leave with their hands up after a mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas (via REUTERS)

The state of Texas  from the border with Mexico to the swanky suburbs north of Dallas  spent Monday reeling from unimaginable horror.

Traumatised shoppers were gathering in Allen to reclaim vehicles at the outlet mall where an active shooter on Saturday killed eight and injured seven. Officers in Brownsville were preparing to update the public after a driver plowed into a group of migrants waiting at a bus stop, again killing eight and injuring at least 10 on Sunday morning. And police in Dallas were holding a gunman who opened fire on a city light rail line on Sunday afternoon, killing one and injuring two.

Meanwhile on Monday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott was tweeting about the border.

Up bright and early to provide a border security update ahead of the end of Title 42, the Republican leader wrote, urging his followers to join him for a live update from the state capital of Austin.

Border security update? retorted Twitter user Faustina Marie, @theroyalruffian. How do you plan to prevent Texans from being slaughtered by other Texans?

Covered bodies are shown at the Allen Premium Outlets, about a half-hour north of Dallas, where a shooter killed eight on Saturday (via REUTERS)

Here, The Independent recaps a horror weekend of violence that left 18 dead and many more injured.

Allen Outlet Mall Shooting

Reports of the first mass tragedy of the weekend began on Saturday afternoon, as panicked social media posts and pictures emerged showing an active shooter at Allen Premium Outlets, about a half-hour north of Dallas. Around 3.30pm, an officer responding to a nearby call heard gunfire at the outdoor mall, responded, identified and killed the shooter, law enforcement said  but the gunman had already fatally wounded eight people and injured nine others.

Among the dead were security guard Christian LaCour, 20; engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, whose 28th birthday was just days away; sisters Daniela and Sofia Mendoza, in fourth and second grade, respectively; and parents Cindy and Kyu Cho, along with their three-year-old, James.

As of Sunday morning, Allen authorities said three injured remained in critical condition in area hospitals and three were in fair, including one patient being treated at a childrens hospital.

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Police on Sunday confirmed the identity of the suspect as Mauricio Garcia, 33, of Dallas. A law enforcement official told AP that multiple weapons had been found at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun. Investigators searched a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying, as well as a home connected to the suspect, the official said.

Federal agents reviewed social media accounts believed to have been used by the suspect expressing interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views; Garcia had a patch on his chest bearing the acronym for a popular right-wing extremist phrase, the official told AP.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

The front entrance is shown of a home connected to Allen shooting suspect Mauricio Garcia, 33, of Dallas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Dallas-area churches on Sunday night were holding services for victims as news of the tragedy spread. Within hours of its creation on Monday, a GoFundMe for the young Cho family had raised $380,000 more than its $50,000 goal.

The page says that the parent and three-year-old had visited the mall on Saturday along with older son, William, to celebrate his sixth birthday four days earlier.

An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left 8 victims dead, the GoFundMe continued. Cindy, Kyu and three year old James were among those victims that tragically lost their lives and the family is in deep mourning. After being released from the ICU, their six year old son William is the only surviving member of this horrific event.

Another mother and her children were also caught up in the atrocity, Wylie Independent School District officials said in a letter to families, according to reporting by ABC affiliate WFAA.

The Mendoza sisters, who attended Cox Elementary in Sachse, Texas, were killed while shopping at the outlets with their mother, Ilda, who was critically wounded, Superintendent David Vinson wrote.

Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten, he continued. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them.

The father of one Premium Outlets employee who rushed to the scene on Saturday described the horrifying site and called for change within his gun-loving state.

A veteran and former cop, Steven Spainhouer told MSNBC: Im a gun lover; I have guns. But these M4s, AR-15s, theyve got to get off the streets or this is going to keep happening, and weve got to stop that at some point. Prayers an condolences wont bring these people back. We need some action in our legislatures at the federal and state level for better gun control, and Im saying that as someone who loves guns.

President Joe Biden echoed those calls for action, also ordering flags lowered to half-staff.

Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, andnot for the first time, he tweeted Sunday. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. We need more action, faster to save lives.

Brownsville Bus Stop Attack

Early Sunday morning, as Texans readied for church services praying for the souls of the mall victims, another tragedy struck the state  570 miles south of the crime scene.

Footage captures the fatal crash at a migrant shelter in Brownsville (Rep Henry Cuellars office)

A grey SUV driven by a local 34-year-old crashed into a group waiting at a Brownsville bus stop just before 8.30am, killing eight and injuring ten more, police said. During a press conference on Monday, Chief Felix Sauceda said George Alvarez  who had an extensive rap sheet  had run a red light, flipped the vehicle and smashed into 18 people before attempting to flee the scene.

The bus stop was near a non-profit Ozanam facility that helps to house migrants  whose ranks have been swelling quickly in the run-up to immigration law changes taking effect on Thursday.

At least some of the victims were Venezuela natives, Chief Sauceda said, calling the Sunday event in the border city a very tragic scene. He said Alvarez had been charged with eight counts of manslaughter and ten counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The chief also noted that investigators were still working to determine a motive and whether or not the deaths were intentional as well as awaiting the results of toxicology tests.

One Venezuelan migrant, who gave his name as Jesus, told local station KVEO that hed been near the bus stop on Sunday at the time of the tragedy. He said hed been at the Ozanam center for three days after traveling from his native country and his family had bought him a plane ticket to Utah.

George Alvarez is seen in his mugshot after deadly crash outside migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas (Brownsville Police Department)

We were waiting there, and the truck sped through the traffic light, and by the grace of God nothing happened to us, but they did hit the others around us, he told the station.

Brownsville police said on Monday that they had also not ruled out additional charges against Alvarez. The FBI was assisting in the investigation.

I cannot describe the heartache I feel at hearing the news from this morning, not just as an advocate for the rights of migrants, but as a resident of Brownsville, Rochelle Garza, president of the Texas Civil Rights Project, tweeted on Sunday. My heart goes out to those who were impacted by this tragedy.

Dallas DART Shooting

Eight hours after the Brownsville bus stop carnage, gunfire broke out in Dallas on a city light rail line, leaving one dead, two injured and a suspect temporarily on the run.

A disagreement between two people broke out aboard a northbound Green Line train around 4.30pm near the Hatcher station within the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, spokesman Gordon Shattles told The Independent. A shooter subsequently fatally wounded one person and injured a bystander before taking off, police said.

A third victim was believed to have been struck by shrapnel and was treated at the scene, police told CNN. The shooting disrupted Green Line service for hours as passengers were routed via bus shuttle between various stations amidst police investigations.

A shooting broke out on Sunday afternoon near the Hatcher Station of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, leaving one dead and two injured (Alamy)

Mr Shattles said Monday that DART police had apprehended the suspect and recovered the weapon used in the incident.

The individual has officially been charged with one count of murder and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, he told The Independent.

The Dallas-area incidents occurred at an especially difficult time for the Dallas Police Department  a separate entity from DART Police  which was hit by a ransomware attack just days before the outlet mall shooting. The FBI said on Friday that it was coordinating with the city, after the ransomware disrupted public services and websites, according to Reuters.

The computer disruption hindered efforts to quickly find information about the Allen suspect, who was believed to be from Dallas, police told local outlets following the mall shooting. The Dallas CIO was scheduled to brief the public safety committee on Monday on the status of the ransomware attack, WFAA reported.

North Texas and federal authorities, meanwhile, continued to piece together details from the Saturday outlet shooting as Gov Abbott continued to tweet about the border later on Monday. Aside from one weekend tweet about the Allen tragedy  highlighting his attendance at a vigil  the Republican avoided most mention of the weekend carnage on his social media.

Were deploying the new Texas Tactical Border Force to border hotspots to repel illegal crossings, he tweeted Monday, adding: In Bidens absence, Texas continues taking unprecedented action to respond to this crisis.

Some of his constituents urged him to look more closely and quickly at other crises, particularly after the Lone Stars horrific weekend of violence.

We knew we could count on you to commence with xenophobic gaslighting in an attempt to take the focus off all the carnage across Texas this weekend, wrote @CariMarshallTX. Guess what - its not working.
By Aleksandar Vasovic

BELGRADE (Reuters) -Tens of thousands of Serbians protested on Monday, demanding better security, a ban on violent TV content and the resignation of key ministers, days after two mass shootings killed 17 people.

Crowds in numbers not seen in the Balkan country for years solemnly marched through the centre of the capital Belgrade behind a banner reading "Serbia Against Violence".

"We have gathered here to pay our last respects, to do our best so this never happens again, anywhere," said Borivoje Plecevic from Belgrade.

A schoolboy who brought two handguns to his school on Wednesday killed eight pupils and a security guard. Six other pupils and a teacher were wounded.

A day later, a 21-year-old man brandishing an assault rifle and a pistol killed eight and wounded 14 people.

Both shooters surrendered to the police.

Protesters and opposition supporters demanded a shutdown of TV stations and tabloids that they accuse of promoting violent and vulgar content.

Opposition parties and some rights groups accuse President Aleksandar Vucic and his ruling populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) of autocracy, oppressing media freedoms, violence against political opponents, corruption and ties with organised crime. Vucic and his allies deny the accusations.

Vucic said protesters on Monday were trying to force him to step down and destabilise the country. He said he was ready to test his party's popularity in a snap vote, but did not specify the date.

"I will continue to work and I will never back down before the street and the mob....Whether it will be a reshuffle of the government or (snap) election, we shall see," he said in a live TV broadcast.

Parliamentary elections in Serbia are due in 2026 and a presidential contest in 2027.

Protesters also called for the resignations of Interior Minister Bratislav Gasic and Aleksandar Vulin, the director of the state security agency, and the dismissal of the government's Regulatory Committee for Electronic Media (REM) within a week.

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Education Minister Branko Ruzic resigned on Sunday.

Demonstrators demanded an emergency parliamentary session and a debate about the overall security situation.

This is an act of "solidarity against ... violence in media, in the parliament, in everyday life ... solidarity because of lost children," said Snezana, a woman in her 60s who declined to give her last name.

Similar protests were held in several other Serbian cities.

In response to the shootings, Serbia's police on Monday started a one-month amnesty for surrendering illegal weapons. It said over 1,500 were handed over on the first day.

Vucic announced police checks of registered gun owners.

Serbia has a deeply entrenched gun culture, and along with the rest of the Western Balkans is awash with military-grade weapons and ordnance in private hands after the wars of the 1990s that tore apart the former Yugoslavia.

(Reporting by Aleksandar Vasovic, Fedja Grulovic and Branko Filipovic; Editing by Mark Potter and Cynthia Osterman)
The United Nations called on Afghanistan's Taliban rulers Monday to halt all state executions, voicing its concern in a report that details public executions, stoning, flogging, and other types of corporal punishments carried out by the hardline Islamic group since it retook control over the country almost two years ago.

The report recorded various instances of physical punishment administrated by the Taliban authorities, such as lashing, stoning, different types of physical assaults, and compelling people to head shaving and stand in cold water.

A Taliban security guard sits as two prisoners (R) attend a hearing at the Ghazni Court of Appeal in Ghazni, eastern Afghanistan, November 28, 2022. Kneeling in front of a turbaned judge in a tiny room at the court, an old man sentenced to death for murder pleads for his life. / Credit: WAKIL KOHSAR/AFP/Getty

According to the report from the U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), over the last six months alone, 58 women, 274 men and two underage boys were publicly lashed for various offenses, including adultery, running away from home, theft, homosexuality, drinking alcohol, forgery and drug trafficking. Those convicted received between 30 and 100 lashes as their official punishment.

U.S. taxpayers helping to fund Afghanistan's Taliban regime?

Similar punishments were doled out to 33 men, 22 women and two underage girls between Aug 15, 2021, when the Taliban stormed back to power as the U.S. and other foreign nations pulled their troops out, and Nov 12, 2022.

The report records two public executions since the Taliban's takeover, one of them ordered by a judge in western Afghanistan and attended by Taliban ministers, according to UNAMA. The executed man was convicted of murdering another man in 2017, and the victim's family carried out the punishment.

Taliban security guards escort an Afghan man (centre L), who has been sentenced to death for murder, and another prisoner after a hearing at the Ghazni Court of Appeal in Ghazni, eastern Afghanistan, November 28, 2022. / Credit: WAKIL KOHSAR/AFP via Getty Images

The other execution noted in the UNAMA report was a case of extrajudicial execution carried out by a district governor without due process.

"Corporal punishment is a violation of the Convention against Torture and must cease. The UN is strongly opposed to the death penalty and encourages the DFA (de facto authorities) to establish an immediate moratorium on executions," UNAMA human rights chief Fiona Frazer said.

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In response to the U.N.'s report, the Taliban's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Afghanistan followed Islamic rules and guidelines.

"Afghanistan follows the holy religion of Islam and Islamic principles; therefore, the laws are determined in accordance with Islamic rules and guidelines. In the event of a conflict between international human rights law and Islamic law, the government is obliged to follow the Islamic law."

The Taliban regime has been condemned widely, including by the governments of other majority-Muslim nations and organizations, for its strict interpretation of Islam, including its bans on girls over the age of 12 going to school or university and on women working in the vast majority of professions.

Afghanistan's Taliban-run Supreme Court announced last week that courts across the country had handed down a total of 175 death sentences since the summer of 2021, including 37 people sentenced to die by stoning.

Some of the punishments had already been carried out, but others were still pending implementation, according to the Supreme Court's deputy, Abdul Malik Haqqani. The court did not detail the alleged crimes of the people who received the sentences.

Haqqani said the Taliban leadership had advised all the country's courts to continue issuing death sentences and other corporal punishment in line with the group's interpretation of Islamic Sharia law, but he stressed that all such sentences, "need careful study and consideration, and the orders will be implemented step by step after approval by the leadership council and the cabinet."

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WASHINGTON  Federal prosecutors want the founder of the Oath Keepers sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, writing that members of the far-right organization were "prepared to fight" Jan. 6 and that Stewart Rhodes should receive a terrorism sentencing enhancement for trying to stop the peaceful transfer of presidential power and keep Donald Trump in office.

Rhodes should receive 25 years in federal prison, prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo filed late Friday, while eight of his co-defendants should receive prison sentences of between 10 and 21 years.

Rhodes and fellow Oath Keeper Kelly Meggs were found guilty of seditious conspiracy in November, while three of their co-defendants  Jessica Watkins, Kenneth Harrelson and Thomas Caldwell  were found guilty of obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting. Other members of the Oath Keepers, Roberto Minuta, Ed Vallejo, Joseph Hackett and David Moerschel, were found guilty of seditious conspiracy in a separate trial in January.

Prosecutors are seeking 21 years for Meggs, 18 years for Watkins, 17 years for Minuta, 17 years for Vallejo, 15 years for Harrelson, 14 years for Caldwell, 12 years for Hackett and 10 years for Moerschel. Rhodes will be sentenced May 25, while other defendants will be sentenced in a series of hearings set for May 24, May 26, June 1 and June 2.

Last week, four members of the Proud Boys were also found guilty of seditious conspiracy, bringing the total number of defendants found guilty of that rare charge in connection with the Jan. 6 attack to 14. (Three other members of the Oath Keepers  William Todd Wilson, Joshua James and Brian Ulrich  pleaded guilty to seditious conspiracy last year. One Proud Boy, Jeremy Bertino, pleaded guilty to the seditious conspiracy charge and testified at trial.)

Prosecutors wrote that the "scope and scale of Rhodes conduct in calling for and conspiring to perpetrate violence against the U.S. government to change the results of a presidential election and retaliate against Congress for certifying those results merits" increasing the amount of time he spends in prison because the attack was a crime of terrorism.

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"Defendant Rhodes stands out among the conspirators for the frequency and vehemence with which he urged his followers to use intimidation and coercion to influence and affect the conduct of government (to stop the lawful transfer of power from President Trump to President Elect-Biden) and to retaliate against government conduct (for failing to intercede to change the election result to his desired outcome)," prosecutors wrote.

Stewart Rhodes (U.S. Attorney's Office for D.C.)

Seditious conspiracy, prosecutors wrote, "is an egregious offense for which defendants are rarely convicted and sentenced," noting that "very few defendants have been sentenced since the advent of the Sentencing Guidelines" but that those who were sentenced "typically receive lengthy terms of incarceration."

Prosecutors cited a case involving the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, noting that the defendants were "sentenced under the Treason guidelines" and received sentences ranging from 25 years to life in prison. Prosecutors also mentioned a 2004 case in which the two co-defendants who planned to travel to Afghanistan to fight alongside al Qaeda and the Taliban were sentenced to 18 years, and a 2009 case in which a defendant who provided material support for a plan to attack targets in the U.S. was given 13 years.

Prosecutors said Rhodes "used his talents for manipulation to goad more than twenty other American citizens into using force, intimidation, and violence to seek to impose their preferred result on a U.S. presidential election" and deserved 300 months in federal prison.

"The Court saw evidence at trial of Rhodes talent at finding and exploiting potential followers manipulation points," prosecutors wrote. "Co-conspirators Jason Dolan, Graydon Young, and Caleb Berry all provided powerful testimony about how Rhodes framing of that moment in timeas a critical turning point in an ongoing battle against a tyrannical governmentgave them purpose and meaning that was lacking in their lives for different reasons. Rhodes messages and speeches are clearly designed to radicalize his followers."

The longest sentence imposed for a Jan. 6 defendant so far has gone to Peter Schwartz, a rioter with a lengthy criminal record who was sentenced to more than 14 years in federal prison Friday. The prior record, 10 years in prison, was set at the sentencing of former New York City Police Officer Thomas Webster.

About 1,000 people have been arrested in connection with the attack on the U.S. Capitol, and hundreds more cases are in the works.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Members of the Royal Box waved flags during the Coronation Concert

People across Britain were on Monday asked to do their duty as the celebrations for King Charles III's coronation drew to a close with a massive volunteering drive.

After the pomp and majesty of Saturday's service, and the concert and street party fun of Sunday, Britons were urged to join in the "Big Help Out", billed as a lasting volunteering legacy to mark Charles's crowning.

The coalition of volunteer and faith groups organising the initiative hope that hundreds of thousands of people will join in, with more than 1,500 charities involved.

While Charles will take a break from the public glare on Monday, his son William will take part in a puppy class at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Training Centre as part of the volunteer programme.

"While wholly supportive of the Big Help Out initiatives taking place right across Britain... (the King and Queen) will not be attending any events in-person," Buckingham Palace said.

The king was the guest of honour at Sunday's star-studded concert, watched by 20,000 people at Windsor Castle and millions more across the country and world.

Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 75, watched on from a royal box in the grounds of the castle west of London, as Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and the British band Take That topped the bill of performers.

Screens erected nationwide broadcast the televised event -- featuring a 70-piece orchestra, choirs and several unique dramatic performances -- to communities, while organisers said it would also be seen in over 100 countries.

- 'Proud mother' -

Amid the music and video message tributes from an array of public figures, Prince William took to the stage to pay tribute to his father the day after Charles was formally crowned king.

William said his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, was "up there, fondly keeping an eye on us", adding she would be "a very proud mother".

"For over 50 years, in every corner of the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others, both current and future generations," the heir to the throne said.

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"Pa, we are all so proud of you."

Charles's coronation Saturday as monarch of the United Kingdom and 14 Commonwealth countries was the first in Britain in seven decades.

The glittering Westminster Abbey ceremony, steeped in 1,000 years of tradition and ritual, was attended by global royalty and world leaders as well as hundreds of UK community and charity representatives.

Thanking all those involved, Buckingham Palace said Charles and Camilla had been "deeply touched" by it.

However, there has been criticism over the arrest of republican supporters before Saturday's ceremony.

Graham Smith, chief executive of campaign group Republic, was one of those detained, and told the BBC on Sunday that "the whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest."

Monday has been declared a public holiday to mark the final day of celebrations -- meaning people could enjoy Sunday unencumbered.

Earlier Sunday, partygoers flocked to tens of thousands of street celebrations and "Big Lunch" events looking to bring modern Britain's communities closer.

More than 67,000 big lunches were planned, according to organisers Eden Project Communities, with Coronation Quiches -- the specially created baked savoury tart featuring spinach, broad beans and tarragon -- encouraged.

The evening also featured "Lighting up the Nation", in which well-known locations across Britain were illuminated using projections, lasers and drone displays.

bur-jj-jwp/js/lcm
The Russian military has been recruiting migrant workers from Central Asia to fight in Ukraine, the U.K. Defense Ministry reported on May 8, adding that it often happens in mosques and immigration offices.

"At immigration offices, staff who speak Tajik and Uzbek routinely attempt to recruit migrants," the ministry wrote in its latest intelligence update.

The ministry cited Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's report saying that Russian military recruiters offered the migrants sign-up bonuses of $2,390 and salaries of up to $4,160 a month. They also offer the workers a fast-track path to obtaining Russian citizenship of six months to one year instead of the usual five years.

The migrants enticed by high monthly salaries and sign-up bonuses are likely sent to Ukraine's frontlines "where the casualty rate is extremely high," reads the update.

UK Defense Ministry: Russia ramps up army recruitment campaign by appealing to masculine pride The Russian Defense Ministry has launched a major campaign to recruit more soldiers by appealing to potential recruits masculine pride, the U.K. Defense Ministry said on April 23. Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

The move is part of the Russian Defense Ministry's efforts to fulfill its goal of recruiting 400,000 people for Moscow's war against Ukraine, the U.K. Defense Ministry added. "The authorities are almost certainly seeking to delay any new overt mandatory mobilization for as long as possible to minimize domestic dissent."

The Russian service of RFE/RL reported on March 15 that Russia's Defense Ministry would start a new recruitment campaign on April 1, aiming to conclude contracts with 400,000 professional soldiers. The Kremlin has denied launching a second wave of mobilization, but there were reports that military enlistment offices had begun sending summonses to men in Russian cities.

In late October 2022, Putin and Russia's Defense Minister Shoigu claimed that the mobilization for the war against Ukraine had finished, but the decree on "partial mobilization" remained in force.

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According to reports by Ukraine's General Staff and the Institute for the Study of War, the Kremlin had continued mobilization covertly. Estonia's intelligence chief Margo Grosberg said that mobilization in Russia had never actually stopped.
Ukraine will have one of the best air defence systems in the world as soon as it receives all of the promised equipment from its international partners.

Source: Colonel Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson of the Air Forces of Ukraine, at the briefing on 8 May

Quote: "Ukraine is a big state with much to be protected. I mean, not only its borders but also its entire territory must be protected. The critical infrastructure facilities, power facilities, and nuclear power plants are priority targets for the Russians. They frequently attack substations, which supply nuclear power units with power.

We must bear in mind that this is a serious threat, and we need more of such systems as Patriot, SAMP/T, IRIS-T, NASAMS and, of course, the F-16 fighter jets, because we cannot do without it. These systems will help us create one of the best air defence systems in the worldWe will have one of the best air defence systems when we get everything that our partners have promised, and we will completely replace the obsolete park of Soviet equipment, both aircrafts and the air defence systems."

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(Bloomberg) -- NATO allies need to spell out the concrete steps for Ukraine to become a member of the military alliance and move beyond repeating the standing position that its welcome to join the bloc, according to Estonias top diplomat.

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Its not enough anymore just to repeat the already existing position that Ukraine is welcomed to NATO, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in an interview. We must move forward to give a strong message about Ukraines next steps when leaders gather in Vilnius this summer, he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has called for clear signals in support of his countrys membership at the upcoming NATO summit. Kyiv has also demanded effective security guarantees before it becomes a full member, a complex request given they could pull an ally and NATO more broadly into war with Russia due to collective defense commitments.

Many allies, including the US, have been hesitant about detailing next steps for Ukraines membership given the risk of becoming embroiled in a direct conflict with the Kremlin. Instead theyve sought to focus on how to sustain military assistance so Ukraine can win the war, while reiterating NATOs pledge that Ukraine will become a member.

Summer Summit

After the EU granted Ukraine candidate status, NATO is also looking at ways to keep the country close over the long term and to help lay the foundations for its eventual membership, including by bolstering its defenses to prevent Russia from attempting another incursion after the current war ends.

While discussions are ongoing, leaders in Vilnius are expected to sign off on measures that include a long-term fund with a total of 500 million ($552 million) a year to help Ukraine with non-lethal aid and other support. They may also upgrade the formal status of NATOs relationship with Ukraine as well as establish a permanent consultation process to discuss security concerns.

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Ukrainian Ambassador to NATO Natalia Galibarenko defended her countrys expectations for the Vilnius summit as very pragmatic and realistic.

We understand that NATO cannot name the exact date of future membership for Ukraine. However, just another confirmation of the open door policy is not enough anymore, Galibarenko said in messaged comments, adding it is high time to define a clear path to membership for our country. She said Ukraine anticipates that practical cooperation measures will be endorsed at the summit, but added we also believe that political decisions are necessary.

Real Guarantee

The Estonian foreign affairs chief met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Brussels on Friday where they discussed the alliances political relationship with Ukraine as well as its defense plans for the eastern flank.

The most clear and the only opportunity to give the real guarantee for Ukraine after the war is NATO membership, Tsahkna said, referring to efforts to ensure Ukraines independence.

Asked whether Estonia would be willing to provide Ukraine security guarantees in advance of NATO membership, Tsahkna agreed the country should have them during this period, but that the focus first should be on how and when Ukraine will become a member.

The minister also stressed the importance of pursuing justice for Russias alleged crimes and aggression in Ukraine at the international level.

In addition to support for Ukraine, NATO allies are also due to agree to a new defense spending pledge this summer, which will likely crystallize outlays of 2% of GDP on defense as a floor. Tsakhna said allies should consider increasing that goal to 2.5% in the foreseeable future, for instance after 10 years. We should take a new vision, he said.

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By Elizabeth Piper and Pavel Polityuk

KYSHCHENTSI, Ukraine (Reuters) - Dutchman Kees Huizinga has faced many challenges in the two decades he has spent as a farmer in Ukraine. Russia's invasion has thrown up one challenge he never expected.

Around 40 of his 350 workers have signed up to fight in the war, and the replacements he has found lack their experience. Huizinga fears this could mean a fall in grain and milk yields, and with them a drop in his income.

His farm, in a village in the rolling hills and green flat plains of the Cherkasy region in central Ukraine, is not the only one losing valued farmhands to the war.

Three farmers, a major farm operator and an agrarian association told Reuters the military call-up had made the most important times of the arable calendar - the sowing and harvesting seasons - even more tough.

They said that assessing the impact of staff shortages on output is all but impossible - but just another complication in an already difficult campaign.

Ukraine's grain output - long a driver of its export revenues and of global grain markets, is already down sharply because of a war that has disrupted exports, reduced access to fertilisers and made huge swathes of farmland inaccessible.

Steps by Kyiv to ring-fence the key agriculture sector from the military draft have had only a limited impact.

Most of the farming sources Reuters spoke to said they can get by with replacement workers and employees doubling up on some jobs, but that nothing replaces experience.

"You lose some efficiency there," Huizinga said. "You lose the quality."

The 48-year-old, who hails from near the Dutch city of Groningen and moved to Ukraine drawn by its cheaper land prices, said the losses could run to a few hundred thousand dollars or more for his farm.

On his 15,000 hectares of land he has 2,000 milking cows plus young stock, and grows a variety of vegetable and grain crops, having withstood unpredictable weather and price fluctuations among other challenges over the years.

Story continues

WAR DRAFT HITS FARM LABOUR

A new recruitment drive since the start of this year as Ukraine prepares for a widely expected counteroffensive coincided with the annual sowing campaign, which was delayed because of heavy rains.

"Out of the 350 employees, there are 40 in the army, not all of them on the front lines but, yeah, we miss them," Huizinga said in front of his fleet of combine harvesters.

"(For) all the farmers all over Ukraine, I think on average they lost like up to 15%, around 15% of their labour force to the army."

Huizinga has willingly given machinery and money to the Ukrainian armed forces and says it makes sense for the military to take drivers used to working with heavy machinery such as combine harvesters, trucks or tractors.

But he has keenly felt the departure 14 months ago of "his main guy", who repaired machinery in the fields.

"So he's very fast in repairing machines, you know ... if a tractor is broken he can find a solution," Huizinga said.

"And now a new guy is going to take ... an hour or half an hour, of course he will get the experience but it will take him a couple of years."

EXEMPTION LAW

Ukraine has long been known as the breadbasket of Europe. Its fertile black soil, large expanse of flat plains and deep Black Sea ports enabled the country to become a major exporter of grain across the world.

Agricultural exports are vital to the economy, making up about 12% of gross domestic product before Russia's invasion and about 60% of all its exports, and are crucial to feeding some parts of the world including the Middle East and Africa.

But the invasion has upended much of that. Grain output is likely to have slumped to about 53 million tonnes in clean weight in the 2022 calendar year from a record 86 million in 2021. This year it could drop as low as 44.3 million.

Under a U.N.-brokered deal allowing the safe export of grain from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports that had been blocked after the invasion, Ukraine has been able to export 29.3 million tonnes of agricultural products including grains.

However, the deal is in jeopardy as Russia has signalled it will not extend it unless the West facilitates the export of Russian grain and fertiliser, sales which it says have been impeded by Western sanctions imposed on Moscow.

Hoping to boost Ukraine's harvest this year, Kyiv has introduced a law that allows some farms to be designated as critically important to the economy, providing some exemptions from the call-up.

Last month, the government included more farms on its critically important list, reducing the amount of land required from 1,000 hectares to 500 and the average number of insured workers to at least 20 people rather than 50.

The government says it is doing everything to make sure farms can do their jobs.

"The situation is very, very tense," Taras Vysotskiy, first deputy agriculture minister, told Reuters. "But it would be incorrect to say that mobilisation has stopped or significantly slowed down the work needed for the agricultural sector."

Despite this, two farmers said the "critically important" status did not make agricultural producers immune to the call-up, especially as the enlistment drive was redoubled at the start of this year.

The pool of willing and able labour in villages across Ukraine is not vast, they said, with many younger people having left for towns and cities in recent decades.

Sometimes, good relations with the local conscription office and offering material support to the armed forces could do more than any law or rules to persuade officials not to sign up too many workers.

The Barishevka grain company Grain Alliance, a farm operator in Ukraine that controls 57,000 hectares of land of which 54,000 hectares are cultivated, said 51 of its 1,100 employees were now "protecting Ukraine".

"The company's management, the company's board of directors and investors understand the urgency and importance of measures to strengthen Ukraine's defence capabilities. But next to this, there is an acute issue of providing the agricultural sector with qualified personnel," it said in a statement.

"Food security of Ukraine and its people is important for victory in the war," it said, adding it was working with defence departments to ensure there were enough workers for successful sowing and harvesting campaigns.

Denys Marchuk, deputy chair of the Ukrainian Agrarian Council, said he believed the situation this year was "difficult, but it is not critical" because of the measures to protect some of the workforce.

Marchuk said farmers were prioritising some employees, bringing in more women workers, recruiting those people displaced by the war and by retraining other workers.

(Additional reporting by Valentyn Ogirenko and Olena Harmash; editing by Mike Collett-White and Mark Heinrich)
(Bloomberg) -- Another aerial attack on Kyiv unfolded early Tuesday morning as multiple explosions were heard in the capital.

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The European Union is pitching member states on a new package of sanctions that for the first time would extend strict trade curbs to several Chinese companies as it seeks to crack down on firms that are supplying Russia with banned products.

Russia attacked the Kyiv region with 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones overnight, the Ukrainian Air Force said on Telegram. All the drones, which came from the Bryansk region of Russia, were shot down by air defense. The Odesa region was attacked overnight by missiles and aid groups said some humanitarian aid depots were hit.

The head of the Wagner mercenary group said hed been promised sufficient ammunition by Russias military to continue a campaign in Bakhmut in Ukraines east, walking back a threat to abandon the battle.

Key Developments

EU Proposes Curbs on Several Chinese Firms for Aiding Russia

Wheat Climbs as Concern Mounts Over Ukraine Grain Export Deal

Hard Red Winter Wheat Climbs as Ukraine Export Deal Worry Mounts

(All times CET)

Explosions in Kyiv Mark Fifth Attack on City This Month (5 a.m.)

Multiple explosions were heard in Kyiv early Tuesday, marking the fifth aerial attack on Ukraines capital this month. As in previous assaults, the authorities told citizens to take shelter until the air raid alarms had quieted. They also asked for informational silence, not recording or publishing anything. The Kyiv military administration said on Telegram that the citys air defense system was working.

US Readies $1.2 Billion in New Security Assistance (12:50 a.m.)

Story continues

The Pentagon will announce on Tuesday that it is awarding $1.2 billion to contractors under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to provide additional air defense systems, counter-drone technologies, commercial satellite imagery and 155mm artillery, according to a defense official. The package was reported earlier by the Associated Press.

Russia Attacked Aid Depots in Ukraine, Charity Says (6:48 p.m.)

Russian missile attacks Sunday night severely damaged warehouses with humanitarian aid in the Odesa and Kherson regions, relief organization Project HOPE said on its website.

No staff was injured and the organization will continue its programs in Ukraine, Project HOPE said.

Earlier on Monday, the Ukrainian branch of the International Red Cross reported its storage facility with humanitarian aid burned down in the Odesa region after being hit by a Russian missile.

Ukraine Says Russia Expanding Evacuations in South (5:35 p.m.)

Russia is expanding the evacuation of occupied areas in Ukraines south, moving families from Skadovsk, a city on the Black Sea coast near Crimea, as well as from nearby towns, the Ukrainian armys general staff said on Facebook.

Last week, Ukraine reported Russia evacuating civilians from Enerhodar in the Zaporizhzhia region and the regions of Berdyansk and Prymorsk on the Azov Sea coast ahead of an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive.

Italys Eni Starts Litigation With Gazprom (4:50 p.m.)

Italian oil company Eni said Gazproms reduction of gas deliveries since last June are subject to arbitration proceeding, according to responses to shareholders questions released ahead of its annual meeting. Eni said its long-term contracts with Gazprom are still in force.

Italy imported around 40% of its gas from Russia before the invasion of Ukraine and almost dropped to zero as of April 2023. Eni aims to fully replace Russian gas by 2025.

Ukraine Says Russia Blocked Ship Inspections, Urges UN to Act (4 p.m.)

Russia refused to register ships bound for Ukrainian ports to pick up grain or to conduct inspections of those ships on Monday, Ukrainian Infrastructure Ministry said on Facebook.

Russias destructive acts made it impossible to draw up inspection plan, the ministry said. As of Monday, 90 vessels are awaiting inspection in Turkish territorial waters, of which 62 are to be loaded.

According to the ministry, permanent interruption of the grain corridors operation is hurting Ukraines agricultural exports. Less than 3 million tons of products were exported through the corridor in April  one of the lowest indicator since the grain deal was signed.

EU Targets Russian Oil Transfers at Sea (3:30 p.m.)

The EU proposed prohibiting access to its ports for vessels that attempt to circumvent sanctions on Russian oil as it seeks to deter transport of its crude and products below the price caps set by the Group of Seven nations.

Ship-to-ship transfers have become pivotal in moving Moscows oil to the market after the EUs ban on seaborne Russian crude in early December.

The measure is part of a broader package of sanctions on Russia following the countrys invasion of Ukraine, according to EU documents seen by Bloomberg.

Ukraine Sees Some Russian Tactical Gains in Offensive (2 p.m.)

Russian forces have some tactical successes near Avdiyivka, Bakhmut and Lyman, which are the main focus points of their offensive, Ukrainian Defense Ministrys military media center said on Telegram. Russia intends to capture the cities of Bakhmut and Maryinka, as well as block supply routes to Ukrainian forces in Avdiyivka, all of which are in the countrys eastern area known as Donbas.

Ukraine Should Get Concrete Path to Join NATO, Estonia Says (1:45 p.m.)

NATO allies need to spell out the concrete steps for Ukraine to become a member of the military alliance and move beyond repeating the standing position that its welcome to join the bloc, according to Estonias top diplomat.

Its not enough anymore just to repeat the already existing position that Ukraine is welcomed to NATO, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said in an interview. We must move forward to give a strong message about Ukraines next steps when leaders gather in Vilnius this summer, he said.

EU Proposes First Curbs on Chinese Firms for Aiding Russia (1:10 p.m.)

The European Commission has asked member states to target about 35 more entities, including businesses in mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as companies in Uzbekistan, Armenia and the United Arab Emirates, according to documents seen by Bloomberg.

The EUs executive arm says those targeted are directly supporting Russias military and industrial complex in its war of aggression against Ukraine. It calls for stricter export restrictions regarding dual-use goods and technology, as well as goods and technology which might contribute to the technological enhancement of Russias defense and security sector, one of the documents says. The mechanism is separate from the designation of individuals and entities on whom travel bans and asset freezes are imposed.

Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said his countrys economic trade with Russia was completely above board at a press briefing in Beijing on Monday. The Financial Times earlier reported the names of the Chinese firms being targeted.

Ukrainian Red Cross Says Missile Strike Burned Stockpile (1:05 p.m.)

A storage facility containing humanitarian aid that belonged to the Ukrainian branch of the International Red Cross burned down in the Odesa region after it was hit by a Russian missile on Monday morning, the mission said on its website.

A Red Cross mobile hospital was damaged in Mykolayiv during missile attack on May 7. So far, 25 facilities of the Red Cross in Ukraine, including offices, stockpiles and logistics hubs, were either damaged or completely ruined by Russian attacks since the beginning of the Russian invasion.

Lithuanias Defense Council Backs Infantry Division Plans (12:30 p.m.)

Lithuania decided to expand its military by building its first infantry division in the country by 2030 in response to Russias projected buildup in the region.

The aim is to have a fully operational division assisted by allies in Lithuania, which could conduct defense operations and implement plans envisaged in collective defense documents, Kestutis Budrys, chief presidential defense adviser, told reporters Monday after a meeting of the countrys State Defense Council.

Consumers in Six Ukrainian Regions Face Power Cuts after Shelling: Ministry (11:45 a.m.)

Thousands of consumers in the Kherson, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, Sumy, and Chernihiv regions were without electricity after Russian mass shelling Monday, the Ukrainian energy Ministry said in an emailed statement.

Repair teams restore the power supply where the situation allows, the ministry said. Strikes on the Kyiv and Odesa regions did not lead to energy infrastructure damage.

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Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang will visit Europe this week for talks in Germany, France and Norway

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang will visit Europe this week, Beijing said on Monday, as China pushes to act as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict and rebuild ties with the continent.

Beijing has sought to portray itself as a neutral party in Russia's war in Ukraine, with President Xi Jinping last month holding his first call with Kyiv's leader since Moscow's invasion.

But recent comments by China's ambassador to France questioning the sovereignty of ex-Soviet states threw its neutral stance into question, and a position paper from Beijing on ending the conflict was met with scepticism by the United States and NATO.

Qin's visit comes on the heels of several high-profile visits to China by European leaders, most notably French President Emmanuel Macron and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

He will hold meetings with counterparts from Germany, France and Norway from Monday to Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

Qin and French counterparts are expected to hold an "in-depth exchange of views on implementing the consensus reached by the two heads of state" last month, he told a news briefing Monday.

They will also "promote the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and France to continuously reach new heights", Wang said.

The German foreign ministry confirmed Qin will hold talks with Baerbock in Berlin on Tuesday. Spokesman Christofer Burger told a regular news conference the Ukraine war "is a very high foreign policy priority for us in all our talks".

Burger said Berlin believed "China has an important role to play in this issue and, in this respect, it would not surprise me if this were to be raised again".

Officials in Paris said Qin will meet French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna on Wednesday, and Norway's top diplomat said his visit on Friday would allow the nations to "discuss issues relating to our common interests".

Story continues

"It is important to have a regular dialogue with China, which is one of the most important players in international politics and the world economy," Foreign Minister Anniken Huitefeldt said, adding Qin would also meet Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store.

- Balancing act -

Qin's visit comes after Beijing restated that it respects the sovereignty of all former Soviet countries. This followed comments by Lu Shaye, China's envoy in Paris, that countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union "don't have effective status under international law".

His comments to French broadcaster LCI appeared to be referring not just to Ukraine, which Russia invaded in February 2022, but to all former Soviet republics that emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said an explanation from Beijing had "duly clarified" the issue and that China was not calling into question the sovereignty of ex-Soviet states.

Xi spoke with Zelensky by phone shortly after the furore over Lu's comments, a nearly one-hour discussion during which Xi reportedly advocated for peace negotiations.

The call prompted Russian accusations that Ukraine was undermining efforts to end the fighting.

Beijing's 12-point "position paper", released in February, was seen by many Western governments as skewed towards Russia. A friendly Moscow visit by Xi in March to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin also sparked widespread criticism.

Beijing says it is neutral in the Ukraine conflict. Xi has never condemned the Russian invasion but the Chinese leader has come under increased pressure from Western nations to step in.

Baerbock urged China to ask "the Russian aggressor to stop the war" in Ukraine during her visit to Beijing last month and said "no other country has more influence on Russia".

She also said she had expressed concerns about human rights issues and warned of the dangers of escalating tensions with Taiwan.

Her visit to the Chinese capital came a week after that of Macron and Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission, who also urged Beijing to play a greater role in resolving the crisis in Ukraine.

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The Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights and representatives of the State Duma (the lower chamber of the Russian Parliament) have started parallel monitoring visits to places of detention of civilians on both sides.

Source: Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraines Human Rights Commissioner, on Telegram

Quote: "The Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights and representatives of the Russian State Duma have started joint activities for monitoring visits to places of detention of civilians on both sides and handing over the basic necessities.

The Russians visited our citizens, a total of 17 people, in places of detention in Luhansk Oblast on 23 April of this year.

Representatives of the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, together with the Nadiia non-government organisation, visited and handed over the previously agreed list of essential items to the 17 defendants detained on the territory of Ukraine on 3 May of this year".

Details: Lubinets also posted two videos that testify to the fact of communication and the transfer of aid. Families of the detained Ukrainian prisoners were informed about the visit.

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The leader of Russias Wagner Group mercenary forces has again accused the Kremlin of failing to send promised ammunition to the frontline.

Speaking as Russia prepared to mark its annual Victory Day with a parade through Moscow today, Yevgeny Prigozhin said he did not want his complaints to spoil the celebrations.

Yet in a video post on Telegram he withdrew comments from just hours earlier saying the requested supplies were on route to his forces in Bakhmut.

The people who were supposed to fulfil the (shipment) orders have so far, over the past day, not fulfilled them, Prigozhin said.

On the war front, Russian forces continued to drop missiles and lethal drones overnight on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, marking the 10th day of bombardments in a row.

Air raid sirens wailed across Ukrainian cities in the early hours of Tuesday, with more than two-third of Ukrainian cities under air raid alert.

Vladimir Putin will oversee the Moscow celebrations of the anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War with a parade in Red Square amid tight security arrangements.

Key Points

Wagner says no sign of promised ammunition from Putin

Ukraines air defence systems repel overnight attacks on Kyiv

Ukraine issues nationwide air alert

Putin launches suicide drone attack on Kyiv

Ukraine says Russia has effectively stopped Black Sea grain deal

US to announce $1.2bn in military aid for Ukraine

US to announce $1.2bn in military aid for Ukraine

04:31 , Arpan Rai

The Biden administration is likely to announce a new $1.2bn (9.5m) military aid package for Ukraine, packing in air defence systems, ammunition and funds for training, an official said.

Ukraine will receive 155-mm Howitzer ammunition, counter-drone ammunition, and funding for satellite imagery as well as various types of training in this tranche of aid, the official said.

The package is paid from Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) funding which allows president Bidens administration to buy weapons from industry rather than pull from US weapons stocks.

Story continues

Ukraines air defence systems repel overnight attacks on Kyiv

03:53 , Arpan Rai

Ukraines air defence systems are repelling Russian attacks on Kyiv, the capital citys military administration said early today as air raid sirens wailed across the country in the small hours.

Air defence systems are working on the outskirts of Kyiv, the administration said on its Telegram.

This comes just a day after Russia launched its biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Wagner says no sign of promised ammunition from Putin

03:49 , Arpan Rai

Russias mercenary Wagner forces have not yet received the ammunition promised by Moscow, the groups leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said, backtracking on his previous comments from just hours earlier claiming that they were being supplied with promised weapons.

The people who were supposed to fulfil the (shipment) orders have so far, over the past day, not fulfilled them, Prigozhin said in a video post on Telegram.

However, he added that he does not want to spoil Russias grand Victory Day parade today and reserved more details on ammunition hunger for later.

Late yesterday, he had said preliminary data showed his troops were beginning to get the ammunition, while cautioning they had not seen it in practice.

Watch: Moment shell explodes in Bakhmut amid heavy fighting

03:00 , Liam James

Footage from a Ukrainian military drone shows the moment a shell exploded in the western part of embattled Ukrainian city Bakhmut.

The footage shows damaged buildings and heavy plumes of smoke rising over the city, which has been the focus of heavy fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces.

Reuters news agency verified the location from the buildings, road layout, and field, which matched satellite photography of the area.

Russia has intensified shelling of Bakhmut hoping to take it by Tuesday, Ukraines top general in charge of the defence of the besieged city said late on Sunday, vowing to do everything to prevent it.

Ukraine, Sudan conflicts fuel alarming surge in tuberculosis

02:00 , Liam James

Top UN officials and health industry leaders are trying to tackle an alarming surge in tuberculosis, which is now killing more people worldwide than Covid-19 or AIDS. Among the problems: a high number of cases in conflict zones, including Ukraine and Sudan, where its difficult to track down people with the disease and diagnose new sufferers (Edith Lederer writes).

Tuberculosis is the biggest infectious disease killer in the world today, taking the lives of around 4,400 people every day, including 700 children, Dr Lucica Ditiu, executive director of the Stop TB Partnership, said before a hearing Monday to prepare for a high-level meeting in late September during the annual gathering of world leaders at the UN General Assembly.

Before Covid-19, which like TB is transmitted through the air, we didnt see very dramatic cases of TB, she said, but after Covid we saw a type of TB that we saw in  movies in which people spit blood and they are very weak, and so on.

Ditiu said the economic impact of Covid and conflicts, first and foremost in Ukraine but now also in Sudan, are having a huge impact on efforts to treat people with TB and diagnose new cases.

Ukraine has the highest number of estimated people with TB in the European region  34,000  and also a high number with drug-resistant TB, she said at a news conference last week.

Click here to read on:

Ukraine, Sudan conflicts fuel alarming surge in tuberculosis

NYT takes Pulitzer prize for Ukraine reporting

01:00 , Liam James

The New York Times won the Pulitzer prize for international reporting for its coverage of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A Reuters team was named as a finalist in that category for a series exposing grave human-rights abuses by the Nigerian military against women and children during its long war with Islamist militants.

The Wall Street Journal won the Pulitzer Prize for investigative reporting for revealing financial conflicts of interest among officials at dozens of federal agencies, the award administrator said on Monday.

The Los Angeles Times won the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news for revealing a secretly recorded conversation among city officials that included racist comments, while the Washington Post took home the national reporting award for her coverage of abortion after the US Supreme Courts decision to eliminate a nationwide right to abortion.

The annual Pulitzers, first presented in 1917, are the most prestigious honours in US journalism.

Wagner group chief says ammunition arriving after furious rant

Tuesday 9 May 2023 00:00 , Liam James

The head of Russias mercenary Wagner group said on Monday that according to preliminary data his troops were beginning to receive the ammunition they needed, and reported heavy fighting in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

Today, the groups advanced a maximum of 130 metres (400 feet) ... Fierce fighting is going on, but the groups are continuing to advance, Yevgeny Prigozhin said in an audio message posted on social media.

According to preliminary data, we are starting to receive ammunition. We have not (yet) seen it in practice.

Mr Prigozhin last week posted a video of himself raging against military leaders in Moscow for what he claimed was an ammo shortage that had allowed many of his troops to die.

Russia bans jet skis and car sharing ahead of Victory Day

Monday 8 May 2023 23:00 , Liam James

Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesdays annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Second World War, curbing the use of drones and car-sharing services in its largest cities amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities cancelled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in co-ordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which has not witnessed the carnage experienced by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials have declined to comment on such claims.

Italy strongly recommends its citizens leave Ukraine by any means

Monday 8 May 2023 22:00 , Liam James

Romes foreign ministry on Monday strongly recommended that any Italians still in Ukraine leave by any means.

The alert was issued in the wake of ever heavier missile attacks on Kyiv and across all Ukrainian territory, the ministry said on its Viaggiare sicuri (Travelling safely) website.

All travel to Ukraine, in any capacity, is strongly discouraged, it said, urging anyone going for work to take appropriate risk prevention and mitigation measures and exercise maximum caution.

Russia launched its biggest swarm of drone attacks for months against Ukraine on Monday, and Kyiv says it will soon launch a counteroffensive to try to reclaim territory from Moscows invasion forces.

Ukrainian Eurovision act hails UK family'

Monday 8 May 2023 21:30 , Liam James

Ukraines Eurovision act has described the UK as family after arriving in Liverpool to the sight of sunflowers and their national flag.

The city has been transformed with public artworks and installations for the international music competition, which the UK is hosting on behalf of Ukraine amid the Russian invasion.

Electronic duo Tvorchi, made up of producer Andrii Hutsuliak and Nigeria-raised vocalist Jeffery Kenny, will compete in the grand final with their rousing song Heart Of Steel.

The pair are hoping to defend Ukraines Eurovision title after Kalush Orchestra swept to victory last year on a wave of support from the voting public.

They are yet to meet the folk-rap outfit, who are scheduled to perform during the grand final on Saturday, and also said President Volodymyr Zelensky had not yet reached out to wish them luck.

Tvorchi outside St Georges Hall in Liverpool (Getty)

In pictures: Russian suicide drone strikes injure 5

Monday 8 May 2023 20:45 , Liam James

Russia launched a wave of kamikaze drones across Ukraine overnight, according to Kyiv officials.

Vitali Klitschko, the capitals mayor, said Russia had fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones, including 36 at Kyiv, all of which had been shot down. However, debris hit apartments and other buildings, injuring at least five people.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military said 16 rockets had hit the Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the last 24 hours, in addition to 61 strikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas.

An intercepted drone caused damage to a residential block in Kyiv (Getty)

Klitschko, examines damage inside a high-rise hit by remains of a shot down Russian drone in Kyiv (AFP/Getty)

Klitschko said all drones fired by Russia were shot down (AP)

Ukraine steel giant gives staff day off over missile fears

Monday 8 May 2023 20:00 , Liam James

Ukraines largest steel producer, ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih, said it told staff to take Tuesday off or work remotely because of the threat of Russian air strikes.

The company, which employs about 20,000 people is located in the central city of Kryvyi Rih, President Volodymyr Zelenskiys hometown, often the target of Russian drone and missile attacks.

A spokesperson said the measure reflected the escalation of enemy attacks throughout the country and the downing of a reconnaissance drone in Kryvyi Rih, on Saturday.

Moscow has intensified air strikes this month as Ukraine prepares to launch a counteroffensive against Russias invasion.

It has also vowed to retaliate after blaming Kyiv for an apparent drone attack on Moscows Kremlin citadel, for which Ukraine denied responsibility.

On Tuesday, Russia will commemorate the Soviet Unions defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945, a major state holiday, with a Victory Day military parade across Red Square.

The steel company, which said it had also told staff not to come in to work on Monday, told staff in an internal memo not to ignore air alerts and to use air raid shelters, the spokesperson said.

Russia launches huge drone attacks on Ukraine ahead of Victory Day holiday

Monday 8 May 2023 19:15 , Liam James

Russia launched its biggest swarm of drone attacks on Ukraine on Monday as it also prepared for annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Kyivs mayor said Russia fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones at Ukrainian targets, including 36 at the capital, all of which had been shot down. Debris hit apartments and other buildings, injuring at least five people in the city.

A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odessa, where officials reported three people were injured.

It was the biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Click here to read on:

Russia launches huge drone attacks on Ukraine ahead of Victory Day holiday

Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant suspends operations, say reports

Monday 8 May 2023 18:30 , Liam James

Reactors at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant are being temporarily shut down in case of provocations by Ukrainian forces, the Tass state news agency said today, citing Yevgeny Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia region.

Russia is reported to have been evacuating residents from villages near the plant, while UN inspectors yesterday warned that the situation at Zaporizhzhia was growing more perilous.

Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said:The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.

The plant, which has been occupied by Russia since early in the invasion, was shut down for a time last November after missile attacks, which Ukraine and Russia traded blame for, damaged power lines fuelling the site.

Nato raised alert level after Russian near-miss

Monday 8 May 2023 17:35 , Liam James

Nato air policing units were put on a higher state of readiness following a near-miss between a Russian fighter jet and a Polish aircraft on patrol for the EUs border agency Frontex on Friday, a Nato official said.

Nato air policing detachments were put on higher readiness in response to the dangerous behaviour of a Russian military plane in the vicinity of a Polish Frontex aircraft over the Black Sea near Romania, the official said on Monday, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The official said Nato remains vigilant and referred further questions to Polish authorities.

ICYMI: Zelensky says world has historic responsibility to prosecute Putin for war crimes

Monday 8 May 2023 16:53 , Matt Mathers

Vladimir Putin has to face justice for war crimes in Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky has declared during a visit to The Hague  the home of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

We all want to see a different Vladimir here in The Hague, the one who deserves to be sanctioned for his criminal actions here, in the capital of international law, the Ukrainian president said, referring to the Russian leader.

The aggressor must feel the full power of justice. This is our historical responsibility. Mr Zelensky added that he was sure we will see that happen when we win... and we will win.

Chris Stevenson has the story:

Zelensky says it is a historic responsibility to prosecute Putin for war crimes

Breakaway Moldovan region suggests Russia deploy more peacekeepers -RIA

Monday 8 May 2023 16:10 , Matt Mathers

Moldovas unrecognised breakaway region of Transdniestria said on Monday it wanted Moscow to bulk up its small contingent of peacekeepers because of what it called growing security risks, Russias RIA news agency reported.

Though Moldova does not allow Russia to deploy new troops in Transdniestria, Russia has had hundreds of peacekeepers in the region since a bloody war between pro-Russian separatists and Moldovan government forces after the 1991 Soviet break-up.

"As long as Russias peacekeeping mission continues, Moldova is constrained in any military plans and preparations against Trandsniestria," Leonid Manakov, the regions envoy to Moscow, was cited as saying by RIA.

"Transnistria has repeatedly applied for an increase in the number of Russian peacekeepers ...there is such an option, and it is justified in terms of the worsening security risks...," he was quoted as saying.

Moldovas ties with Russia are currently badly strained and have deteriorated rapidly over the course of Moscows full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, which Chisinau has repeatedly condemned.

ICYMI: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

Monday 8 May 2023 15:40 , Matt Mathers

Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated King Charles III on his coronation.

The president of Ukraine described the new monarch and his wife, Queen Camilla, as true friends of Ukraine as he addressed the royal family.

On behalf of the entire Ukrainian people, I congratulate Their Majesties, true friends of Ukraine, on this historic event that begins a new era of the British monarchy, Mr Zelensky said.

I wish King Charles III many years of successful reign.

Watch the video here:

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

Bank apologises after mortgage refused over Ukrainian refugees

Monday 8 May 2023 15:05 , Matt Mathers

A bank has issued an apology after rejecting a homeowners mortgage application due to them hosting two Ukrainian refugees.

A mother and her young daughter have been staying in an annexe at Dominik Zaums family home since June 2022.

Fixed-rate mortgage deals leapt up in the wake of last autumns disastrous mini-budget, with many predicting they will continue to edge up even further as the Bank of England looks set to hike interest rates.

Emily Atkinson reports:

Bank apologises after mortgage refused over Ukrainian refugees

Denmark, Sweden sign solidarity agreement on gas supply

Monday 8 May 2023 14:43 , Matt Mathers

Denmark and Sweden have signed an agreement on mutual support in case of gas shortages, the energy authorities of the two countries said on Monday.

In the case of gas shortages or disruptions, Denmark will help secure supply to Swedish customers protected by the agreement, including about 30,000 households, hospitals and emergency services, Swedens energy authority said.

"The agreement we have signed today reflects the great work and cooperation that has taken place in the wake of Russias invasion of Ukraine," the director of the Danish Energy Authority, Kristoffer Bottzauw, said in a separate statement.

"No country in the EU or the Nordic region can solve the energy supply crisis alone," Bottzauw added.

The majority of the natural gas used in Sweden comes via a pipeline from Denmark.

Ukraine moves day to mark Nazi surrender in shift towards West

Monday 8 May 2023 14:20 , Matt Mathers

President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday moved to formalise the day that Ukraine marks the allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two as May 8, aligning it with Western nations in a repudiation of the Soviet past quickly condemned by Moscow.

Speaking to Ukrainians on a hill overlooking Kyiv, Zelensky said "the old evil" had returned, this time waged by a "modern Russia" pursuing the same goal as the Nazis of "enslavement and destruction" - but that it would not succeed.

Zelensky said he had submitted a bill to parliament officially making May 8 Ukraines day of remembrance and victory, while May 9 would become Europe Day. Zelensky wants Ukraine one day, after the war, to join the European Union.

"We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," he said in a video posted on the presidents Telegram channel.

Nazi Germanys unconditional surrender came into force at 11:01 p.m. on May 8, 1945, which was already May 9 in Moscow.

Russia bans jet skis, ride-hailing ahead of WWII tributes

Monday 8 May 2023 14:00 , Matt Mathers

Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesdays annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones, jet skis and car-sharing services in its largest cities amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities canceled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

Regional officials blamed unspecified "security concerns" or vaguely referred to "the current situation" for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which hasnt witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

Russia Victory Day Parade Rehearsal (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Ukraine says Russia has effectively stopped Black Sea grain deal

Monday 8 May 2023 13:40 , Matt Mathers

Russia has effectively stopped the Black sea grain deal by refusing to register incoming vessels, Ukraines reconstruction ministry said on Monday.

Ukrainian Black Sea ports were blockaded after Russias invasion last year, but access to three of them was cleared last July under a deal between Moscow and Kyiv that was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.

"The Russian Federation once again effectively stopped the Grain Initiative by refusing to register incoming vessels and carry out their inspections. This approach contradicts the terms of the current agreement," the ministry said in a statement.

It said that 90 ships, including 62 vessels for loading, were waiting in Turkeys territorial waters for approval to go to Ukrainian ports.

The deal expires on May 18. Moscow has threatened to quit the agreement intended to help ease a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations are working to extend the deal.

Workers load grain at a grain port in Izmail, Ukraine, Wednesday, April 26 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Watch: Moment shell explodes in Bakhmut amid heavy fighting

Monday 8 May 2023 13:20 , Matt Mathers

Footage shows a Ukrainian military drone capturing the moment a shell explodes in the western part of Bakhmut

The footage shows damaged buildings and heavy plumes of smoke rising over the city, which has been the focus of heavy fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces.

Reuters news agency verified the location from the buildings, road layout, and field, which matched satellite photography of the area.

Moscow has increased attacks on Ukraine in recent days as it gears up for its Victory Day celebrations on Tuesday, 9 May.

Billal Rahman reports:

Moment shell explodes in Bakhmut amid heavy fighting

ICYMI: Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counteroffensive begins

Monday 8 May 2023 13:00 , Matt Mathers

Success for Ukraine in its long-awaited counteroffensive against Russia could spell the complete collapse of Vladimir Putins military or even the Russian economy, a senior minister in Volodymyr Zelenskys government has said.

In an interview with The Independent, deputy defence minister Volodymyr Havrylov was deliberately vague about the timing of the counteroffensive, which is expected imminently as the mud and rains of spring give way to more favourable fighting conditions.

Arpan Rai:

Russia will panic under Ukraine counteroffensive, says top Kyiv minister

War shadows Victory Day, Russia's integral holiday

Monday 8 May 2023 12:40 , Matt Mathers

Victory Day, Russias most important secular holiday, lauds two tenets that are central to the countrys identity: military might and moral rectitude. But the war in Ukraine undermines both this year.

The holiday falling on Tuesday marks the 78th anniversary of Germanys capitulation in World War II after a relentless Red Army offensive pushed German forces from Stalingrad, deep inside Russia, all the way to Berlin, about 2,200 kilometers (1,300 miles).

The Soviet Union lost at least 20 million people in the war; the suffering and valor that went into the German defeat have been touchstones ever since.

However, many regions have canceled their May 9 observances because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks.

Full report:

War shadows Victory Day, Russia's integral holiday

ICYMI: Russian forces evacuate towns near Zaporizhzhia plant as IAEA warns of very real nuclear safety risk

Monday 8 May 2023 12:20 , Matt Mathers

Russian forces evacuated residents from a town near the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine on Sunday as the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog said he was extremely concerned about the safety of the facility.

Ukraines military said local Russian passport-holders were being taken to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

The evacuation, which could not be verified on the ground, comes as Ukraine is expected to launch a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory in the area.

Alastair Jamieson reports:

Russian forces evacuate towns near Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

Putin is unprepared for the blowback his assault on Ukraine will bring Russia

Monday 8 May 2023 12:03 , Matt Mathers

Russia is already paying a huge price that will only increase, writes Borzou Daragahi.

Read Borzous full piece here:

Russia is unprepared for the blowback to its assault on Ukraine | Borzou Daragahi

EUs Von der Leyen to meet Zelensky in Kyiv on Tuesday

Monday 8 May 2023 11:42 , Matt Mathers

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Tuesday, which is Europe Day, the European Commission announced on Monday.

The visit reaffirms "the EUs unwavering support towards the country", a spokesperson for the European Commission told reporters.

"The visit will focus on all the dimensions of our relations with Ukraine", he added.

(Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Russian shelling hits power networks in five Ukrainian regions-Ukrenergo

Monday 8 May 2023 11:22 , Matt Mathers

Russian shelling damaged electricity distribution networks in five Ukrainian regions overnight, Ukraines state grid operator said on Monday.

"The night attack by drones did not damage the main energy infrastructure," Ukrenergo said in a statement.

"However, due to Russian shelling along the frontline and border shelling, there is again damage to distribution networks in Donetsk, Kharkiv, Kherson, Sumy and Chernihiv regions."

Ukraines energy system has survived months of Russian missile and drone attacks that have at times left millions without power or heating during the cold winter months.

But fast repairs, equipment supplied by Ukraines Western partners and favourable weather for hydro-power stations have allowed Kyiv to restore power supplies and even start small electricity exports to neighbouring countries.

Electricity generation now fully covers consumption thanks to hydro-power stations and the seasonal increase in power production by solar and wind power plants, Ukrenergo said.

It also said that repair work continued actively across Ukraine, and that officials and the energy industry were committed to strengthening the heavily damaged system and preparing it for the next cold season.

Full report: Ukraine shoots down 35 drones over Kyiv as attacks kill 3

Monday 8 May 2023 11:05 , Matt Mathers

Ukraine air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlins forces killed three civilians, officials said Monday as Moscow enforced tight security on the eve of traditional Red Square commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Susie Blann reports:

Ukraine shoots down 35 drones over Kyiv as attacks kill 3

Ukraine issues nationwide air alert amid attacks

Monday 8 May 2023 10:35 , Matt Mathers

Air raid sirens wailed across the whole of Ukraine on Monday just hours after Russia conducted massive overnight drone and missile strikes on the country.

Ukrainian military bloggers said the air alerts could have been triggered by a Russian warplane armed with Moscows Kinzhal hypersonic weapons taking off.

The claim could not be immediately verified.

Russia launched a wave of drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, officials said on Monday, as Moscow stepped up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Mid-morning recap

Monday 8 May 2023 10:10 , Matt Mathers

Fighting

Ukraines top military command said its forces destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia had launched overnight at targets around the country.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure. A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people wounded.

The military said 16 rockets had hit the Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the last 24 hours, in addition to 61 strikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas.

Russia has intensified shelling of Bakhmut hoping to take it by Tuesday - Russias Victory Day holiday, Ukraines top general in charge of the defence of the besieged city said, vowing to do everything to prevent it.

Ukraine, which as part of the then-Soviet Union endured higher per capita casualties than Russia in battling the Nazis in World War Two, proclaimed May 8 to be Victory Day, rather than May 9 - a clear bid to separate its observance of the day from that of Russia.

Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from Bakhmut, saying it had been promised more arms and suggesting it may keep up the assault on what Russia sees as a stepping stone in the Donbas region.

Some 1,679 people, including 660 children, have been evacuated from areas near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, a Moscow-installed official in the Russia-controlled parts of the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine said.

An explosion of a drone is seen in the sky over the city during a Russian drone strike, amid Russias attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine May 8 (REUTERS)

Russia scales back Victory Day parades due to security concerns

Monday 8 May 2023 09:43 , Matt Mathers

Russia has cancelled or curtailed some of the huge military parades that normally accompany Victory Day.

Western countries say this is in part out of security concerns and in part because Moscow has lost so much military hardware in a largely failed winter offensive in Ukraine that has seen the most intense ground combat in Europe since World War Two.

"The Russians still hope to capture the city by 9 May. Our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said after visiting the front line near Bakhmut, Russias main target.

Ukraine, which drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory last year, has kept its troops on the defensive for the past six months, but is preparing a massive counteroffensive in coming weeks.

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

Monday 8 May 2023 09:20 , Matt Mathers

Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated King Charles III on his coronation .

The president of Ukraine described the new monarch and his wife, Queen Camilla, as true friends of Ukraine as he addressed the royal family.

On behalf of the entire Ukrainian people, I congratulate Their Majesties, true friends of Ukraine, on this historic event that begins a new era of the British monarchy, Mr Zelensky said.

I wish King Charles III many years of successful reign.

Oliver Browning reports:

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

Bringing Ukraine closer to Europe, Zelenskiy marks 1945 Nazi surrender

Monday 8 May 2023 08:58 , Matt Mathers

President Volodymyr Zelensky marked the anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany in World War Two by saying on Monday he would formalise a day of remembrance in Ukraine on May 8 when other Western countries celebrate Europes victory.

Speaking to the nation on a hill overlooking Kyiv, Zelensky said "the old evil" had returned, this time waged by a "modern Russia" pursuing the same goal as the Nazis of "enslavement and destruction" - but that they would not succeed.

Further cementing Ukraines break with its Soviet past, Zelensky said he had submitted a bill to parliament officially making May 8 a day of remembrance and victory, while May 9 - when Russia marks victory day - would become Europe Day.

"We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," he said in a video posted on the presidents Telegram channel.

"Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unitythe unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat rashism," he said, using a word Ukrainians have coined to describe what they call Russian fascism.

"The unity that brings peace closer."

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivers a speech in the Hague (Yves Herman via AP)

China will safeguard its interests over EU sanctions

Monday 8 May 2023 08:30 , Matt Mathers

China opposes any measures that use China-Russia relations as a pretext for the damage of trade cooperation, Chinas foreign ministry said on Monday.

In response to the European Unions proposed sanctions on Chinese companies over accusations of them aiding Russias war machine, ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said if these sanctions come into force, China will take firm action to safeguard its interests.

Russians take language test to avoid expulsion from Latvia

Monday 8 May 2023 08:10 , Matt Mathers

In a Stalinist skyscraper which dominates the skyline of Latvias capital, dozens of elderly Russians wait to take a basic Latvian language test as a proof of loyalty to a country where they have lived for decades.

Clutching red Russian passports, the participants, mostly women, read their notes for last minute revision, fearing they may be expelled from the Baltic country if they fail.

Speaking Russian instead of Latvian has not been a problem until now, but the war in Ukraine changed the picture. Last years election campaign was dominated by questions of national identity and security concerns.

The government now demands a language test from the 20,000 people in the country holding Russian passports, mostly elderly and female, as the loyalty of Russian citizens is a worry, said Dmitrijs Trofimovs, state secretary at the Interior Ministry.

"(If I am deported), I would have nowhere to go, I have lived here for 40 years," said Valentina Sevastjanova, 70, a former English teacher and Riga guide after her final Latvian lesson in a private school in central Riga, ready for when she takes her own exam.

"I took the Russian passport in 2011 to easily visit my sick parents in Belarus. They are gone now."

Russia steps up shelling of Bakhmut

Monday 8 May 2023 07:51 , Matt Mathers

Russia stepped up shelling of Bakhmut, hoping to take it by Tuesday, Ukraines top general leading the besieged citys defence said, after Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from it.

Three people were injured in blasts in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capitals centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyivs military administration said drone wreckage fell on a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capitals two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Ukrainian soldiers fire a cannon near Bakhmut (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Russia steps up strikes on Ukraine ahead of May 9 Victory Day holiday

Monday 8 May 2023 07:30 , Matt Mathers

Russia launched a wave of drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, officials said on Monday, as Moscow stepping up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure.

"Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged," the military said.

A food warehouse was set ablaze in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

Russia luring central Asian migrant workers to fight in Ukraine  UK MoD

Monday 8 May 2023 07:07 , Arpan Rai

The British defence ministry has said Russian military recruiters are targeting central Asian migrant workers in Russia to serve in Ukraine.

Recruiters have visited mosques and immigration offices to recruit. At immigration offices, staff who speak Tajik and Uzbek routinely attempt to recruit migrants, the ministry said in its latest intelligence update.

It cited Radio Free Europes report of recruiters offering sign-up bonuses of USD $2,390 ( 1889) and salaries of up to USD $4,160 (3289) a month. Migrants have also been offered a fast-track Russian citizenship path of six months to one year, instead of the usual five years, the ministry said.

The high monthly salary and sign-up bonuses will entice some migrant workers to sign up. These recruits are likely sent to the Ukrainian frontlines where the casualty rate is extremely high, it added.

Recruiting migrants is part of the Russian Ministry of Defences attempts to fulfil its target of 400,000 volunteers to fight in Ukraine, the MoD said.

The authorities are almost certainly seeking to delay any new overt mandatory mobilisation for as long as possible to minimise domestic dissent.

Ukraine receives Leopard 1 tanks as training begins

Monday 8 May 2023 06:50 , Arpan Rai

A Ukrainian tank crew relax on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground in Germany (Getty Images)

Ukrainian tank crews stand on Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground of the Bundeswehr near Klietz, Germany (Getty Images)

German defence minister Boris Pistorius visits the training of Ukrainian tank crews on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground (Getty Images)

German defence minister Boris Pistorius and Danish defence minister Trouls Lund Poulsen visit the training of Ukrainian tank crews on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank (Getty Images)

A Ukrainian tank crew aboard the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel (Getty Images)

Ukraine military downs all 35 drones Russia launched overnight

Monday 8 May 2023 05:38 , Arpan Rai

Ukraines air force has said it has destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia had launched overnight at different targets around the country.

The Russian Federation (also) launched 16 missile strikes last night, in particular on the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, the General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces said in its daily update.

Additionally, 61 airstrikes and 52 attacks from the heavy rocket salvo fire systems were launched over the past day on the positions of Ukrainian forces and populated areas, the Ukrainian military command said.

Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged, it said.

How Wagner has decided to fight in Bakhmut and not exit

Monday 8 May 2023 05:23 , Arpan Rai

Wagner mercenary groups chief Yevgeny Prigozhin had issued an angry warning on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded a months-long assault on the eastern Ukraine city, would pull out after being starved of ammunition and suffering useless and unjustified losses.

But on Sunday, he took a U-turn on the warning for the Kremlin.

We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off [from supplies] will be deployed, he said in an audio message shared to his press service channel on Telegram.

Wagner group appears to U-turn on Bakhmut withdrawal threat

Wagner hopes to take Bakhmut by tomorrow, says Ukraine

Monday 8 May 2023 04:21 , Arpan Rai

Russian forces, including the Wagner mercenary fighters, have amped up their shelling on Bakhmut as they look to take it by Tuesday  Russias annual Victory Day  Ukraines top general leading the defence said.

This comes as Wagner Groups chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared to climb down on his threat to exit from Bakhmut yesterday amid renewed promises of weapons by Moscow.

In an audio recording posted on his Telegram channel, he said: We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off [from supplies] will be deployed.

Food warehouse in Black Sea city engulfed in fire after Russian attack

Monday 8 May 2023 04:15 , Arpan Rai

A food warehouse in the Ukrainian city of Odesa near the Black Sea has been set ablaze in an overnight attack by Russia, officials said.

Several other blasts were also reported in other parts of Ukraine.

Photos of a large structure fully engulfed in flames were shared by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, in what he said was a Russian attack on a foodstuff warehouse, among others.

Other visuals on social media of the food warehouse under attack showed the entire facility up in flames as emergency workers were engaged in rescue efforts at the spot.

Five injured in Russias mass strikes on Kyiv ahead of Victory Day holiday

Monday 8 May 2023 04:14 , Arpan Rai

At least five people were injured in Russian strikes on Kyiv, officials in Ukraine said early today as Vladimir Putins forces launched a large-scale wave of drones and missiles across the capital and besieged country.

Mayor Vitali Klitschko said three people were injured in blasts in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district and two others were injured when drone wreckage fell onto the Sviatoshyn district.

Some of the drone wreckage also fell on a runway of the Zhuliany airport, Kyivs military administration said.

No fire has been reported from one of two passenger airports but emergency services were working on the site, officials added.

This comes a day before Moscow prepares to march its military forces for the cherished Victory Day holiday marking the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Blast heard in Odesa, say reports

Monday 8 May 2023 03:00 , Liam James

Ukrainian media reported an explosion overnight in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

Air raid alerts were also reported in capital Kyiv, as well as in other regions of the country.

The Independent could not immediately confirm the reports.

Recent weeks have seen Russia resume airstrikes against Ukrainian cities following an attack on a Crimean fuel depot which Moscow blamed on Kyiv.

Ukraine is meanwhile preparing to launch a counteroffensive against Russian forces in occupied territory.

EU mulls sanctions on Chinese firms linked to Russian war effort

Monday 8 May 2023 02:00 , Liam James

The European Union has proposed sanctions on Chinese companies accused of selling equipment that could be used in weapons to support Russias war machine, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

The blocs proposal follows a US move to sanction Chinese business for involvement with Russia. Last month, the US put five firms based in mainland China and Hong Kong on its entity list, barring them from trading with any US firms without gaining a nearly unobtainable special license.

Beijing protested, calling it an illegal move that endangers global supply chains.

Nine Ukrainian explosives experts killed in Kherson, says Zelensky

Monday 8 May 2023 01:00 , Liam James

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly video address that nine Ukrainian explosives experts who were engaged in demining were killed in a single Russian attack in the southern Kherson region on Saturday.

They were ... restoring safety for our people, Mr Zelensky said.

Ukraine farmers risk losing their lives or livelihoods

Monday 8 May 2023 00:00 , Liam James

A grassy lane rutted with tire tracks leads to Volodymyr Zaiets farm in southern Ukraine. He is careful, driving only within those shallow grooves  veering away might cost him his life in the field dotted with explosive mines (Samya Kullab writes).

Weeds grow tall where rows of sunflowers once bloomed. Zaiets land hasnt been touched since the fall of 2021, when it was last seeded with wheat. Now, its a minefield left by retreating Russian forces.

Zaiets eschewed official warnings and demined this patch of land himself, determined not to lose the years harvest. He expects that 15 per cent of his 1,600 hectares (4,000 acres) of farmland was salvaged.

Click here to read on:

Ukraine farmers risk losing their lives or livelihoods

Ukraine bombards Crimea targets ahead of counteroffensive

Sunday 7 May 2023 23:00 , Liam James

Ukraine launched more than 10 drones overnight on the Crimean Peninsula, including three on the port of Sevastopol, a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday, adding that air defence systems repelled all the attacks on Sevastopol.

No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, said on the Telegram messaging app.

There were no immediate details of any damage from the strikes elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russias law enforcement agencies, reported earlier on Sunday that according to the channels preliminary information, there were no casualties in what it said was a series of attacks on Crimea.

Russian forces evacuate towns near Zaporizhzhia plant as IAEA warns of very real nuclear safety risk

Sunday 7 May 2023 22:00 , Liam James

Russian forces evacuated residents from a town near the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine on Sunday as the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog said he was extremely concerned about the safety of the facility.

Ukraines military said local Russian passport-holders were being taken to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

The evacuation, which could not be verified on the ground, comes as Ukraine is expected to launch a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory in the area.

Click here for the full story:

Russia evacuates towns near nuclear plant as IAEA warns of very real safety risk

Russian troops reportedly attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over last day

Sunday 7 May 2023 21:00 , Tara Cobham

Russian troops have attacked Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over the last day, according to The Kyiv Independent.

Putins forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, said Governor Yurii Malashko, although no casualties were reported.

He added homes and cars were damaged.

This comes as the UN has said the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station has become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous as Moscow-installed officials began evacuating people from nearby areas.

Wagner group appears to U-turn on Bakhmut withdrawal threat

Sunday 7 May 2023 20:00 , Liam James

Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to have to ditch plans to withdraw from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine, saying they had been promised more arms by Moscow and suggesting they may keep up their assault on what Russia sees as a stepping stone to other cities in the Donbas region.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian and Russian media reported explosions across Russian-occupied Crimea, and Russias defence ministry said its air defences had detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea overnight.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin had said on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded a months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out after being starved of ammunition and suffering useless and unjustified losses as a result.

But in an audio message posted on his Telegram channel on Sunday, he said: We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off (from supplies) will be deployed.

A spokesman for Russias defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment after Prigozhins latest statement.

Click here to read on:

Ukraine showing at Liverpool Eurovision opening

Sunday 7 May 2023 19:30 , Liam James

This years Eurovision acts are being welcomed to Liverpool with an opening ceremony.

The Turquoise Carpet ceremony opened on Sunday afternoon in the city, which is preparing to host the song contest final next Saturday on behalf of last years winners Ukraine.

Hosted by Olympian Sam Quek and Ukrainian presenter Timur Miroshnychenko, the ceremony will see all 37 acts take to the carpet for a welcome to the city.

Liverpool ceremony welcomes Eurovision competitors

Air raid alerts across Ukraine due to overnight strikes

Sunday 7 May 2023 18:45 , Adam Withnall

Air raid alerts blared for several hours overnight into early Sunday over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, with officials saying that air defence systems shot down a number of drones, including one over Kyivs airspace.

During the last air alert, an enemy reconnaissance UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) was detected in the airspace of Kyiv, the military administration of Kyiv said on the Telegram messaging app. The drone was destroyed ... Preliminarily, there have been no casualties or destruction.

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through to all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea. A Russian-installed official in Crimea said that Ukraine sent more than 10 drones over Crimea.

Putin is unprepared for the blowback his assault on Ukraine will bring Russia

Sunday 7 May 2023 18:00 , Liam James

Borzhou Daragahi, foreign correspondent, analyses this weeks puzzling attack on the Kremlin:

The small drones managed to bypass security surrounding the Kremlin, Russias most sacred political and religious site, before they were blasted out of the sky during the early morning hours of 3 May.

The Kremlin angrily described the drones as a Ukrainian and Western-backed assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin. It almost definitely was not. It was yet another sign that the fallout from Putins disastrous war of imperial conquest was moving closer and closer to the heart of Russian power.

No one should take anything the Russian government says at face value because, well, its Russia. The drones did not appear particularly large or sophisticated. Putin, who has over the years slowly turned into a Bond villain caricature of himself, was probably at one of his compounds, bunkers or palaces and nowhere near the fortress-like presidential residence that is the formal seat of Russian power and a major tourist draw.

Russia is unprepared for the blowback to its assault on Ukraine | Borzou Daragahi

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on coronation

Sunday 7 May 2023 17:03 , Liam James

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Britains King Charles on his coronation on Saturday and offered him and the British people thanks for their support in the war against Russia.

He described the king and Queen Camilla, his wife, as true friends of Ukraine and said his reign marked the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy.

Britain has been a key Western partner supplying military aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February last year.

Security worries overshadow Russia's Victory Day preparations

Sunday 7 May 2023 15:46 , Tara Cobham

Russia stages its annual Victory Day parade on Red Square on Tuesday amid particularly tight security after a series of drone attacks, including on the Kremlin citadel, symbolic heart of the Russian state, which Moscow has blamed on Ukraine.

Victory Day is a key anniversary for President Vladimir Putin, who often evokes the spirit and sacrifice that helped the Soviet Union defeat Nazi Germany in 1945 to kindle Russians' sense of patriotism, especially since invading Ukraine.

However, Ukrainian intelligence has warned of Victory Day provocations by Russia. The Kyiv Independent suggested Moscow might stage false-flag attacks against Russian and Belarusian populations around 9 May, according to Ukraine's General Intelligence Directorate chief Andrii Usov.

Pope Francis reiterates his appeal for peace in Ukraine on Sunday

Sunday 7 May 2023 14:44 , Tara Cobham

Pope Francis reiterated his appeal for peace in Ukraine as he addressed crowds gathered in St Peters Square, Vatican City on Sunday.

Pope Francis reiterates his appeal for peace in Ukraine as he addressed crowds gathered in St Peters Square, Vatican City on Sunday (Getty Images)

Russian forces evacuating town near occupied nuclear plant, Kyiv says

Sunday 7 May 2023 14:00 , Tara Cobham

Russian forces are evacuating residents from the town that serves the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, the Ukrainanian military said on Sunday.

Ukraine is expected to start soon a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory, including in the Zaporizhzhia region.

In its morning update, Ukraine's General staff said Russian forces were evacuating local Russian passport-holders to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

"The first to be evacuated are those who accepted Russian citizenship in the first months of the occupation," it said in a statement.

The reports could not be independently verified.

The head of the U.N.'s nuclear power watchdog said on Saturday the situation around the station, Europe's largest, has become "potentially dangerous".

Both sides have accused one another of shelling the plant and efforts to secure a safety zone around it have failed.

Russian troops reportedly attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over last day

Sunday 7 May 2023 13:12 , Tara Cobham

Russian troops have attacked Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over the last day, according to The Kyiv Independent on Sunday.

Putins forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, said Governor Yurii Malashko, although no casualties were reported.

He added homes and cars were damaged.

This comes as the UN has said the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station has become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous as Moscow-installed officials began evacuating people from nearby areas.

 Russian troops attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over past day.



Russian forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, Governor Yurii Malashko reported on May 7. No casualties were reported, but homes and cars were damaged.  The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) May 7, 2023

Russia claims it destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over Black Sea overnight

Sunday 7 May 2023 13:05 , Tara Cobham

Russia's air defences detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea overnight, the country's defence ministry said on Sunday in a daily briefing.

Russia's claim could not be independently verified. A Russian-installed official said earlier that Ukraine had launched drones at Crimea overnight, without providing details.

Separately, the defence ministry said its forces had gained more ground in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, claiming two "blocks" in the northwestern and western parts of the city.

Polish plane on EU border patrol narrowly avoids collision with Russian jet

Sunday 7 May 2023 12:29 , Tara Cobham

A Polish border guard aircraft on patrol for the European Union's border agency Frontex over the Black Sea near Romania narrowly avoided a collision with a Russian fighter jet on Friday, Romania and Poland said.

A Russian SU-35 jet carried out "aggressive and dangerous manoeuvres" approaching the Polish aircraft without keeping a secure distance, leading to turbulence, loss of altitude and a temporary loss of control of the plane by the Polish crew, Anna Michalska, a border guard spokesperson, wrote on Twitter on Sunday.

"The Russian jet flew just in front of the nose of the Polish plane, crossing its trajectory at a dangerous distance, estimated by the crew at about five metres," Michalska said.

After three approaches the Russian jet flew away, Michalska added. The incident took place in international airspace.

The Romanian Defence Ministry said in a press release that the Russian jet's behaviour was completely unacceptable.

"This incident is a further proof of the provocative approach of the Russian Federation in the Black Sea," the ministry said.

Two combat aircraft belonging to the Romanian Air Force and two from the Spanish Air Force designated for Air Police missions were alerted by the NATO Combined Air Operations Centre in Torrejon, Spain. While the four aircraft were ready to intervene at any moment, their intervention proved unnecessary, the ministry said.

"It looks like a planned provocation by Russia, the crew acted responsibly and luckily nothing happened. We can see that Russia is trying to draw international attention by such provocations," Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller told private television Polsat News on Sunday.

Russia's Wagner group signals it will stay in Bakhmut after threat to quit

Sunday 7 May 2023 11:17 , Tara Cobham

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group appeared on Sunday to ditch plans to withdraw his forces from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine after receiving promises overnight that they would get all the arms needed to capture the devastated city.

Yevgeny Prigozhin announced on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded the months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out because he said his men had been starved of ammunition and had suffered "useless and unjustified" losses as a result.

Prigozhin, who has publicly heaped scorn on Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and the top army brass over their conduct of the war in Ukraine, said officials in Moscow consumed by "petty jealousy" were holding back crucial supplies to his men.

However in an audio message posted on his Telegram channel on Sunday, Prigozhin said: "Overnight we received a combat order, for the first time in all this time."

"We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off (from supplies) will be deployed on the flank," he added.

The battle for Bakhmut, which Russia sees as a stepping stone to other cities in Ukraine's Donbas region still beyond its control, has been the most intense of the conflict, costing thousands of lives on both sides in months of grinding warfare.

Ukrainian troops have been pushed back in recent weeks but have clung on in the city to inflict as many Russian losses as possible ahead of Kyiv's planned big push against the invading forces along the 1,000 km (620 mile) front line.

Prigozhin also said on Sunday that Russia's Defence Ministry had assigned General Sergei Surovikin to work alongside Wagner.

"This is the only man with the star of an army general who knows how to fight," he added.

Surovikin commanded Russia's Ukraine campaign for several months before the chief of the General Staff, Army Army General Valery Gerasimov, was given overall operational command above him.

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, appeared on Sunday to ditch plans to withdraw his forces from Bakhmut (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Exclusive: Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counterattack begins

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:58 , Tara Cobham

Success for Ukraine in its long-awaited counterattack against Russia could spell the complete collapse of Vladimir Putins military or even the Russian economy, a Ukrainian minister predicts.

Speaking in an interview with The Independent, deputy defence minister Volodymyr Havrylov was deliberately vague about the timing of the offensive, which is expected imminently as the mud and rains of spring give way to more favourable fighting conditions.

But when it does come  very soon was the timing set out this week by Volodymr Zelensky  the offensive will expose Russias tightly controlled propaganda regarding the war effort and lead to a reckoning among ordinary Russians, said Mr Havrylov.

Arpan Rai reports.

Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counterattack begins: They will suffer the consequences

Russia's Wagner chief says he was promised arms to continue fighting in Bakhmut

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:29 , Tara Cobham

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said on Sunday he had been promised overnight as much ammunition and weaponry as needed to continue a months-long assault on the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

Prigozhin's comment, made on his Telegram messaging app channel, came two days after he announced plans to withdraw from Bakhmut complaining that his men had been starved of ammunition and had suffered "useless and unjustified" losses as a result.

Russia claims its destroyed two British made howitzers in Ukraine

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:00 , Tara Cobham

Russia has claimed it has destroyed two British-made howitzers, which were being used by Ukraine in Donetsk.

Alexander Gordeyev, a Russian military spokesman, told the Russian news agency TASS the suicide drones were also used to destroy a similar UK howitzer and a Buk-M1 anti-aircraft system used by Ukraine near Maksimovka.

Lancet loitering munition destroyed an enemys UK-made L119 howitzer in the area of Shevchenko, he said.

The munition is a small drone with a range of up to 25 miles and is one of Moscows most advanced weapons, used for reconnaissance or attack missions.

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb with Russia blaming Ukraine and US

Sunday 7 May 2023 09:23 , Tara Cobham

A prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, has allegedly been wounded in a car bombing that killed his driver  an attack that Russia immediately blamed on Ukraine and the West.

The state Investigative Committee said the writer's Audi Q7 was blown up in a village in the Nizny Novgorod region, about 250 miles (400km) east of Moscow, which it was treating as an act of terrorism. It said Prilepin had been taken to hospital.

The committee released a photograph showing the white vehicle lying overturned on a track next to a wood, with a deep crater beside it and fragments of metal strewn nearby.

An interior ministry spokeswoman said a suspect had been arrested. State news agency TASS quoted security sources suggesting the suspect was a "native of Ukraine" with a past conviction for robbery with violence.

Interfax news agency quoted a source in the emergency services as saying Prilepin's condition was serious and doctors would operate on him.

Pro-Kremlin Russian writer and publicist Zakhar Prilepin is claimed to have been injured in a car bomb (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A view shows a damaged white Audi Q7 car lying overturned on a track next to a wood, after Russian nationalist writer Zakhar Prilepin was allegedly wounded in a bomb attack in a village in the Nizhny Novgorod region (REUTERS)

Widespread air raid alerts in Ukraine as drone shot down over Kyiv

Sunday 7 May 2023 08:36 , Tara Cobham

Air raid alerts blared for several hours overnight into early Sunday over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, with officials saying that air defence systems shot down a number of drones, including one over Kyiv's airspace.

"During the last air alert, an enemy reconnaissance UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) was detected in the airspace of Kyiv," the military administration of Kyiv said on the Telegram messaging app. "The drone was destroyed ... Preliminarily, there have been no casualties or destruction."

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through to all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea. A Russian-installed official in Crimea said that Ukraine sent more than 10 drones over Crimea.

Local officials in several Ukrainian regions reported that air defence systems were deployed overnight, but there was no immediate information early on Sunday on potential casualties or damages.

Gas pipeline, power lines damaged in Ukraine attacks on Russia's Belgorod - governor

Sunday 7 May 2023 07:55 , Tara Cobham

Overnight Ukrainian shelling of the Belgorod region on Russia's border with Ukraine damaged a gas pipeline and power lines as well as a house in the village of Spodaryushino, the region's governor said on Sunday.

"Most importantly, there were no casualties," Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

The report could not be independently verified.

The Belgorod region is one of several in southern Russia where targets such as fuel and ammunition stores have been rocked by explosions since the start of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Ukraine almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks inside Russia and on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, but it has said recently that destroying infrastructure is preparation for its planned ground assault.

UN nuclear watchdog warns of new dangers around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Sunday 7 May 2023 06:00 , Adam Withnall

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog has warned that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station had become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, calling for measures to ensure its safe operation.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, issued the warning in view of what he said were evacuations under way in the nearby town of Enerhodar, ordered by the local Russian-installed governor.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, Grossi said on the agencys website.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant. We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment.

Russian forces seized the Zaporizhzhia plant days after Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of his neighbour in February 2022. Exchanges of fire have frequently occurred near the facility, with each side blaming the other.

Grossi visited the Zaporizhzhia station, Europes largest nuclear power installation, in March, as part of efforts to speak to both sides to secure an agreement on safeguards to ensure the plants safe operation.

He has repeatedly warned of the dangers of military operations around the plant.

Russia last September proclaimed the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, including Zaporizhzhia region.

The plant is located in the part of that region under Russian control, with many of the staff operating it living in Enerhodar on the south bank of the Dnipro River.

Yevgeny Balitsky, Russian-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia region, said on Friday he had ordered the evacuation of villages close to the frontline with Ukrainian forces there. He said Ukrainian shelling had intensified in the area in recent days.

A widely expected Ukrainian spring counteroffensive against Russian forces is viewed as likely to take in the Zaporizhzhia region, around 80 per cent of which is held by Moscow.

Ukraine bombards Crimea targets' ahead of counteroffensive

Sunday 7 May 2023 04:50 , Adam Withnall

Ukraine launched more than 10 drones overnight on the Crimean Peninsula, including three on the port of Sevastopol, a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday, adding that air defence systems repelled all the attacks on Sevastopol.

No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, said on the Telegram messaging app.

There were no immediate details of any damage from the strikes elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russias law enforcement agencies, reported earlier on Sunday that according to the channels preliminary information, there were no casualties in what it said was a series of attacks on Crimea.

According to Ukrainian monitoring of Telegram channels, explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki - where Russia has an air base - as well as a few other places.

Strikes on Russian-held targets have intensified in the past two weeks, especially in Crimea. Ukraine, without confirming any role in those attacks, says destroying infrastructure is preparation for its long-awaited counterattack.

The happy coincidence nod to Ukraine at Kings coronation

Sunday 7 May 2023 03:00 , Martha Mchardy

The carpets at Westminster Abbey, upon which King Charles and Queen Camilla were crowned on Saturday 6 May, resembled the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine.

After months of preparations and anticipation, the United Kingdom has crowned its new king and queen.

Photos and videos showed that the carpets inside the royal church were blue and yellow, resembling the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

Maanya Sachdeva reports:

The happy coincidence nod to Ukraine at Kings coronation

Firefighter tells of humbling experience delivering equipment for Ukraine

Sunday 7 May 2023 02:00 , Martha Mchardy

A firefighter who was part of a convoy of fire engines and lorries delivering life-saving equipment for Ukraine has described the experience as very humbling after reaching Poland.

The timing of the shipment is meant to honour the Eurovision link between Ukraine and the UK, with the vehicles leaving Liverpool on Tuesday, the city which will host the competition later this month.

Darren Cleaves, station manager for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, was in Poland to help deliver fire engines as well as life-saving equipment for Ukrainian firefighters.

Sarah Ping reports:

Firefighter tells of humbling experience delivering equipment for Ukraine

What is Wagners role in Ukraine?

Sunday 7 May 2023 01:00 , Martha Mchardy

Wagner has taken an increasingly visible role in the war in Ukraine as regular Russian troops have suffered heavy attrition and lost control over territory in humiliating setbacks.

Prigozhin claimed full credit in January for capturing the Donetsk region salt-mining town of Soledar and accused the Russian Defense Ministry of trying to steal Wagners glory. He has repeatedly complained that the Russian military failed to supply Wagner with sufficient ammunition to capture Bakhmut, the reason he cited Friday for his withdrawal threat.

Wagner group owner Yevgeny Prigozhin (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Prigozhin has toured Russian prisons to recruit fighters, promising inmates pardons if they survived a half-year tour of front-line duty with Wagner.

The U.S. estimates Wagner has about 50,000 personnel fighting in Ukraine, including 10,000 contractors and 40,000 of the convicts the company enlisted.

A U.S. official says nearly half of the 20,000 Russian forces killed in Ukraine since December have been Wagners troops in Bakhmut.

The U.S. assesses that Wagner is spending about $100 million a month in the fight and has taken delivery of weapons from North Korea, including rockets and missiles.

Ukraine claims to have shot down Russian hypersonic missile in slap in face for Putin

Sunday 7 May 2023 00:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraines air force has claimed to have downed a Russian hypersonic missile over Kyiv using newly-acquired American Patriot defence systems  the first known time the country has been able to intercept one of Moscows most modern missiles.

Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk said that the Kinzhal-type ballistic missile had been intercepted in an overnight attack on the Ukrainian capital earlier in the week. It was also the first time Ukraine is known to have used the Patriot defence systems.

It comes as Kyiv accused Moscow of using phosphorus munitions in the eastern city of Bakhmut. Drone footage released by the Ukrainian military shows parts of the city  the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting of the war  ablaze as what is alleged to be white phosphorus rains down.

David Rising reports:

Ukraine says it has shot down Russian hypersonic missile in slap in face for Putin

Russia's Prigozhin says no further offensive in Bakhmut possible without ammunition

Saturday 6 May 2023 23:38 , Martha Mchardy

The head of Russias mercenary Wagner Group said on Saturday that he had still not received additional ammunition from Moscow ahead of the expected withdrawal of his forces from Bakhmut because of heavy losses and inadequate supplies.

As of today, no one has come to replenish ammunition, to provide it in the necessary volume, Prigozhin said in an audio message posted on the Telegram channel of his press service. There can be no offensive without a counter-battery fight, without defeating the enemys means.

Wagner forces, he said, had no ammunition and could not pursue any further offensives near the city, under Russian siege for some 10 months.

Because I will lead more men to certain death. On the 10th (of May), we will start withdrawing units, he said.

He added that his forces have taken 95% of Bakhmut, a city in eastern Ukraine that had a population of more than 70,000 before the war.

Prigozhin has, however, prematurely claimed successes before. Reuters was not able to independently verify the claim.

The remaining 5% plays no role in the so-called development of success and the Red Armys march to the West, he said.

Ukraine leads world reaction to King Charles IIIs coronation

Saturday 6 May 2023 23:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraine released an upbeat video to congratulate Britains King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their historic coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, where world leaders gathered to witness the once-in-a-generation royal event.

The video released by Ukraines defence ministry was edited to the tune of London Calling by The Clash, and showed British weaponry deployed to the Ukrainian frontline and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky meeting King Charles and British prime minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Keir Starmer and former prime minister Boris Johnson.

On the eve of the historic coronation, wed like to thank our British friends for your friendship. We are grateful for your unwavering support and partnership, especially in the past year! the defence ministry said on Twitter.

Shweta Sharma reports:

Ukraine leads world reaction to King Charless coronation

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb

Saturday 6 May 2023 22:00 , Martha Mchardy

A prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, has been wounded in a car bombing that killed his driver  an attack that Russia immediately blamed on Ukraine and the West.

The state Investigative Committee said the writers Audi Q7 was blown up in a village in the Nizny Novgorod region, about 250 miles (400km) east of Moscow, which it was treating as an act of terrorism. It said Prilepin had been taken to hospital.

The committee released a photograph showing the white vehicle lying overturned on a track next to a wood, with a deep crater beside it and fragments of metal strewn nearby.

Mark Trevelyan reports:

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb

Watch: CCTV captures moment Ukraine ammunition depot explodes

Saturday 6 May 2023 21:30 , Martha Mchardy

What are white phosphorus bombs?

Saturday 6 May 2023 21:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraine has accused Russia of attacking the besieged eastern city of Bakhmut with phosphorus munitions.

Drone footage released by the UKrainian military, shows parts of the city  the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting of the war  ablaze as what is alleged to be white phosphorus rains down. While white phosphorus weapons are not banned in their entirety, but their use in civilian areas is considered a war crime.

Writing on Twitter, Ukraines defence ministry said the phosphorus attack targeted unoccupied areas of Bakhmut with incendiary ammunition  although it is unclear exactly when the alleged attack took place.

Joe Sommerlad reports:

All we know about deadly white phosphorus bombs Russia accused of using in Ukraine

Watch: Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus munitions in Bakhmut

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:45 , Martha Mchardy

Air raid alerts issued for most of eastern Ukraine

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:38 , Martha Mchardy

Ukrainian officials issued air raid alerts on Saturday evening for areas covering roughly two-thirds of the country.

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea.

Ukraine raises hundreds of millions of dollars for counteroffensive

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:36 , Martha Mchardy

Hundreds of millions of dollars have been raised by Ukraine for a spring counteroffensive to retake Russian-occupied territory.

Ukraine has reportedly raised $325 million dollars to spend on drones for the counteroffensive through crowdfunding from 110 countries.

The project aims to launch 60 companies to produce attack drones, according to reports.

Preparation for the counteroffensive has also involved training 10,000 drone pilots.

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraines deputy prime minister and minister for innovation, said: We have recently completed the first part of the UAV pilot training project; 10,000 pilots have been trained during this time.That is, the Drone Army is about the comprehensive development of the UAV sector, both from the point of view of production and from the point of view of their use.

Wagner chief claims of limited munitions after Bakhmut withdrawal could be legitimate, according to leaked documents

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:30 , Martha Mchardy

The head of the Russian private military company Wagners claim that limited munitions which lead to his withdrawal from Bakhmut could be legitimate, according to leaked documents.

Prigozhin said on Friday that his troops will leave the besieged eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, citing a lack of ammunition supplies that he blamed on Russias military command.

The documents, leaked on Discord said military officials could not decisively say whether Wagner was receiving munitions because they were not directly distributed by the Russian defence ministry, according to The Washington Post.

The documents also noted that Prigozhins claims could be legitimate.

Deputy Minister of Defence Gerasimov reportedly ordered to stop munitions supplies  and also planned military transport flights, which were set to transport munitions to Wagners headquarters in Rostov-on-Don, the documents state.

However, as Prigozhin public statements escalated the Defence Ministry proposed doubling the munitions supply to Wagner, and in February the ministry said Prigozhin claims about munitions were untrue.

The Wagner chief responded to this by posting pictures of the dead soldiers and a request for munitions directly to Gerasimov. The documents reportedly indicate that Prigozhin was called to a meeting with president Putin as a result of this.

The meeting almost certainly concerned, at least in part, Prigozhins public accusations and resulting tension with Shoygu, one document said.

Russian forces claim to have destroyed two British-made howitzers in Donetsk

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:26 , Martha Mchardy

Russian forces have claimed to have destroyed two British-made howitzers used by Ukrainian forces in Donetsk.

Russian military spokesman Alexander Gordeyev said a Lancet loitering munition destroyed an enemys UK-made L119 howitzer in the area of Shevchenko.

The Lancet loitering munition has a range of us to 25 miles and is one of Russias most sophisticated weapons.

Leaked files show tension between Russian military and Wagner chief

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:00 , Martha Mchardy

Leaked files show tensions between the Russian military and the head of the private Russian military company Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin.

The documents, allegedly leaked on Discord, indicate that the Russian military leadership struggled to respond to Prigozhins public statements, The Washington Post reports.

One document stated: The officials initially noted that, if the MoD was going to try to counter Prigozhins public statements, they should find allies of equal status to fight Prigozhin rather than doing so itself.

However, they were ultimately unsure how the MoD could successfully fight an information war with Prigozhin if the Russian government did not forbid Prigozhin from making public releases, according to The Washington Post.

Prigozhin personally appealed to president Putin to intervene.

Russian foreign ministry says Ukraine and West responsible for attack on writer

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:56 , Martha Mchardy

Russias Foreign Ministry on Saturday said Ukraine and Western countries backing it were responsible for a car bombing that injured a Russian writer and killed his driver.

A ministry statement, quoted by Russian news agencies, said: Responsibility for this and other terrorist acts lies not only with Ukrainian authorities, but also their Western patrons, the United States in the first instance....

The statement said Washingtons failure to denounce this and other attacks was self-revealing for the U.S. administration.

Ukraines security service will not confirm or deny involvement in Russia attack

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:56 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraines SBU security service told the state Ukrinform news agency on Saturday it could not confirm or deny involvement in a car bombing that injured a Russian writer or other attacks.

Officially, we cannot confirm or deny the SBUs involvement in this or other explosions which occur with the occupiers or their henchmen, Ukrinform quoted the agency as saying.

Russia says bomber who injured novelist acted for Ukraine

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:55 , Martha Mchardy

Russias top investigative agency on Saturday said the suspect in a car bombing that injured a prominent pro-Kremlin novelist and killed his driver has admitted acting at the behest of Ukraines special services.

The blast that hit the car of Zakhar Prilepin, a well-known nationalist writer and an ardent supporter of Russias war in Ukraine, was the third explosion involving prominent pro-Kremlin figures since the start of the conflict.

Russias Investigative Committee said the suspect was a Ukrainian native and had admitted under questioning that he was working under orders from Ukraine.

The Foreign Ministry in turn blamed not only Ukraine but the United States as well.Responsibility for this and other terrorist acts lies not only with the Ukrainian authorities, but with their Western patrons, in the first place, the United States, who since the coup detat of February 2014 have painstakingly nurtured the anti-Russian neo-Nazi project in Ukraine, the ministry said, referring to the 2014 uprising in Kyiv that forced the Russia-friendly president to flee.

In August 2022, a car bombing on the outskirts of Moscow killed Daria Dugina, the daughter of an influential Russian political theorist often referred to as Putins brain. The authorities alleged that Ukraine was behind the blast.

Last month, an explosion in a cafe in St. Petersburg killed a popular military blogger, Vladlen Tatarsky. Officials once again blamed Ukrainian intelligence agencies.

Russian news outlet RBC reported, citing unnamed sources, that Prilepin was travelling back to Moscow on Saturday from Ukraines partially occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions and stopped in the Nizhny Novogorod region for a meal.

Who is writer Zakhar Prilepin - target of car bomb in Russia?

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:30 , Martha Mchardy

Zakhar Prilepin, 47, is the author of six novels, often focusing on dark themes. His debut novel The Pathologies told the story of young soldiers in the Chechen wars. He has also written numerous poems, essays and articles, and is the recipient of various state awards including a 2021 arts prize from the defence ministry.

He is an outspoken pro-war figure on social media, with around 300,000 subscribers each to his Telegram and YouTube channels.

Russia Novelist Zakhar Prilepin (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

For years, he has organised Russian proxy fighters in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, boasting in a 2019 YouTube interview that his unit killed people in big numbers. The extent of his direct combat involvement is not clear.

Mr Prilepin has been politically active as the co-chair of the A Just Russia - For Truth party. Last year he took a prominent role in creating GRAD, a parliamentary group that seeks to identify cultural figures with anti-Russian views and persuade the state and business to stop funding them. GRADs initials stand for Group to investigate anti-Russian activity in the cultural sphere. Grad is also the Russian word for hail, and the name of a missile system.

Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine last February, he has been sanctioned by Switzerland, Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the European Union

Watch: Moment malfunctioning Ukrainian drone shot down over Kyiv

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:00 , Martha Mchardy
Vladimir Putins Russia unleashed a series of missile strikes on Ukraine overnight as Moscow prepares to celebrate Victory Day. Ukraine issued a nationwide air alert just hours after the strikes hit.

Capital Kyiv was among the locations targeted by the Kremlin with Iranain-made suicide drones and missiles used to hit targets.

Officials said Ukraines air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure.

A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people wounded.

Earlier, the top commander of Ukraines ground forces says Vladimir Putin is pushing to try and capture Bakhmut before tomorrows Victory Day celebrations in Russia, with an increase of shelling in the frontline city.

Today, it is important to make decisions as quickly as possible and predict the actions of the enemy, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said on his Telegram channel.

The Russians still hope to capture the city by 9 May. Our task is to prevent this, he said.

Key Points

Ukraine issues nationwide air alert

Putin launches suicide drone attack on Kyiv

Wagner hopes to take Bakhmut by tomorrow, says Ukraine

Wagner group appears to U-turn on Bakhmut withdrawal threat

UN nuclear watchdog warns of new dangers around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Russian forces evacuate towns near Zaporizhzhia plant

Exclusive: Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counterattack begins

Ukraine issues nationwide air alert amid attacks

10:35 , Matt Mathers

Air raid sirens wailed across the whole of Ukraine on Monday just hours after Russia conducted massive overnight drone and missile strikes on the country.

Ukrainian military bloggers said the air alerts could have been triggered by a Russian warplane armed with Moscows Kinzhal hypersonic weapons taking off.

The claim could not be immediately verified.

Story continues

Russia launched a wave of drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, officials said on Monday, as Moscow stepped up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Mid-morning recap

10:10 , Matt Mathers

Fighting

Ukraines top military command said its forces destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia had launched overnight at targets around the country.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure. A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people wounded.

The military said 16 rockets had hit the Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the last 24 hours, in addition to 61 strikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas.

Russia has intensified shelling of Bakhmut hoping to take it by Tuesday - Russias Victory Day holiday, Ukraines top general in charge of the defence of the besieged city said, vowing to do everything to prevent it.

Ukraine, which as part of the then-Soviet Union endured higher per capita casualties than Russia in battling the Nazis in World War Two, proclaimed May 8 to be Victory Day, rather than May 9 - a clear bid to separate its observance of the day from that of Russia.

Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from Bakhmut, saying it had been promised more arms and suggesting it may keep up the assault on what Russia sees as a stepping stone in the Donbas region.

Some 1,679 people, including 660 children, have been evacuated from areas near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, a Moscow-installed official in the Russia-controlled parts of the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine said.

An explosion of a drone is seen in the sky over the city during a Russian drone strike, amid Russias attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine May 8 (REUTERS)

Russia scales back Victory Day parades due to security concerns

09:43 , Matt Mathers

Russia has cancelled or curtailed some of the huge military parades that normally accompany Victory Day.

Western countries say this is in part out of security concerns and in part because Moscow has lost so much military hardware in a largely failed winter offensive in Ukraine that has seen the most intense ground combat in Europe since World War Two.

"The Russians still hope to capture the city by 9 May. Our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said after visiting the front line near Bakhmut, Russias main target.

Ukraine, which drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory last year, has kept its troops on the defensive for the past six months, but is preparing a massive counteroffensive in coming weeks.

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

09:20 , Matt Mathers

Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated King Charles III on his coronation .

The president of Ukraine described the new monarch and his wife, Queen Camilla, as true friends of Ukraine as he addressed the royal family.

On behalf of the entire Ukrainian people, I congratulate Their Majesties, true friends of Ukraine, on this historic event that begins a new era of the British monarchy, Mr Zelensky said.

I wish King Charles III many years of successful reign.

Oliver Browning reports:

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on historic coronation

Bringing Ukraine closer to Europe, Zelenskiy marks 1945 Nazi surrender

08:58 , Matt Mathers

President Volodymyr Zelensky marked the anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany in World War Two by saying on Monday he would formalise a day of remembrance in Ukraine on May 8 when other Western countries celebrate Europes victory.

Speaking to the nation on a hill overlooking Kyiv, Zelensky said "the old evil" had returned, this time waged by a "modern Russia" pursuing the same goal as the Nazis of "enslavement and destruction" - but that they would not succeed.

Further cementing Ukraines break with its Soviet past, Zelensky said he had submitted a bill to parliament officially making May 8 a day of remembrance and victory, while May 9 - when Russia marks victory day - would become Europe Day.

"We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," he said in a video posted on the presidents Telegram channel.

"Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unitythe unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat rashism," he said, using a word Ukrainians have coined to describe what they call Russian fascism.

"The unity that brings peace closer."

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivers a speech in the Hague (Yves Herman via AP)

China will safeguard its interests over EU sanctions

08:30 , Matt Mathers

China opposes any measures that use China-Russia relations as a pretext for the damage of trade cooperation, Chinas foreign ministry said on Monday.

In response to the European Unions proposed sanctions on Chinese companies over accusations of them aiding Russias war machine, ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said if these sanctions come into force, China will take firm action to safeguard its interests.

Russians take language test to avoid expulsion from Latvia

08:10 , Matt Mathers

In a Stalinist skyscraper which dominates the skyline of Latvias capital, dozens of elderly Russians wait to take a basic Latvian language test as a proof of loyalty to a country where they have lived for decades.

Clutching red Russian passports, the participants, mostly women, read their notes for last minute revision, fearing they may be expelled from the Baltic country if they fail.

Speaking Russian instead of Latvian has not been a problem until now, but the war in Ukraine changed the picture. Last years election campaign was dominated by questions of national identity and security concerns.

The government now demands a language test from the 20,000 people in the country holding Russian passports, mostly elderly and female, as the loyalty of Russian citizens is a worry, said Dmitrijs Trofimovs, state secretary at the Interior Ministry.

"(If I am deported), I would have nowhere to go, I have lived here for 40 years," said Valentina Sevastjanova, 70, a former English teacher and Riga guide after her final Latvian lesson in a private school in central Riga, ready for when she takes her own exam.

"I took the Russian passport in 2011 to easily visit my sick parents in Belarus. They are gone now."

Russia steps up shelling of Bakhmut

07:51 , Matt Mathers

Russia stepped up shelling of Bakhmut, hoping to take it by Tuesday, Ukraines top general leading the besieged citys defence said, after Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from it.

Three people were injured in blasts in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capitals centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyivs military administration said drone wreckage fell on a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capitals two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Ukrainian soldiers fire a cannon near Bakhmut (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Russia steps up strikes on Ukraine ahead of May 9 Victory Day holiday

07:30 , Matt Mathers

Russia launched a wave of drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, officials said on Monday, as Moscow stepping up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure.

"Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged," the military said.

A food warehouse was set ablaze in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

Russia luring central Asian migrant workers to fight in Ukraine  UK MoD

07:07 , Arpan Rai

The British defence ministry has said Russian military recruiters are targeting central Asian migrant workers in Russia to serve in Ukraine.

Recruiters have visited mosques and immigration offices to recruit. At immigration offices, staff who speak Tajik and Uzbek routinely attempt to recruit migrants, the ministry said in its latest intelligence update.

It cited Radio Free Europes report of recruiters offering sign-up bonuses of USD $2,390 ( 1889) and salaries of up to USD $4,160 (3289) a month. Migrants have also been offered a fast-track Russian citizenship path of six months to one year, instead of the usual five years, the ministry said.

The high monthly salary and sign-up bonuses will entice some migrant workers to sign up. These recruits are likely sent to the Ukrainian frontlines where the casualty rate is extremely high, it added.

Recruiting migrants is part of the Russian Ministry of Defences attempts to fulfil its target of 400,000 volunteers to fight in Ukraine, the MoD said.

The authorities are almost certainly seeking to delay any new overt mandatory mobilisation for as long as possible to minimise domestic dissent.

Ukraine receives Leopard 1 tanks as training begins

06:50 , Arpan Rai

A Ukrainian tank crew relax on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground in Germany (Getty Images)

Ukrainian tank crews stand on Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground of the Bundeswehr near Klietz, Germany (Getty Images)

German defence minister Boris Pistorius visits the training of Ukrainian tank crews on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank by German and Danish military personnel at a military training ground (Getty Images)

German defence minister Boris Pistorius and Danish defence minister Trouls Lund Poulsen visit the training of Ukrainian tank crews on the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank (Getty Images)

A Ukrainian tank crew aboard the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank they are being trained to operate and maintain by German and Danish military personnel (Getty Images)

Ukraine military downs all 35 drones Russia launched overnight

05:38 , Arpan Rai

Ukraines air force has said it has destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones that Russia had launched overnight at different targets around the country.

The Russian Federation (also) launched 16 missile strikes last night, in particular on the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, the General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces said in its daily update.

Additionally, 61 airstrikes and 52 attacks from the heavy rocket salvo fire systems were launched over the past day on the positions of Ukrainian forces and populated areas, the Ukrainian military command said.

Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged, it said.

How Wagner has decided to fight in Bakhmut and not exit

05:23 , Arpan Rai

Wagner mercenary groups chief Yevgeny Prigozhin had issued an angry warning on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded a months-long assault on the eastern Ukraine city, would pull out after being starved of ammunition and suffering useless and unjustified losses.

But on Sunday, he took a U-turn on the warning for the Kremlin.

We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off [from supplies] will be deployed, he said in an audio message shared to his press service channel on Telegram.

Wagner group appears to U-turn on Bakhmut withdrawal threat

Wagner hopes to take Bakhmut by tomorrow, says Ukraine

04:21 , Arpan Rai

Russian forces, including the Wagner mercenary fighters, have amped up their shelling on Bakhmut as they look to take it by Tuesday  Russias annual Victory Day  Ukraines top general leading the defence said.

This comes as Wagner Groups chief Yevgeny Prigozhin appeared to climb down on his threat to exit from Bakhmut yesterday amid renewed promises of weapons by Moscow.

In an audio recording posted on his Telegram channel, he said: We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off [from supplies] will be deployed.

Food warehouse in Black Sea city engulfed in fire after Russian attack

04:15 , Arpan Rai

A food warehouse in the Ukrainian city of Odesa near the Black Sea has been set ablaze in an overnight attack by Russia, officials said.

Several other blasts were also reported in other parts of Ukraine.

Photos of a large structure fully engulfed in flames were shared by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, in what he said was a Russian attack on a foodstuff warehouse, among others.

Other visuals on social media of the food warehouse under attack showed the entire facility up in flames as emergency workers were engaged in rescue efforts at the spot.

Five injured in Russias mass strikes on Kyiv ahead of Victory Day holiday

04:14 , Arpan Rai

At least five people were injured in Russian strikes on Kyiv, officials in Ukraine said early today as Vladimir Putins forces launched a large-scale wave of drones and missiles across the capital and besieged country.

Mayor Vitali Klitschko said three people were injured in blasts in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district and two others were injured when drone wreckage fell onto the Sviatoshyn district.

Some of the drone wreckage also fell on a runway of the Zhuliany airport, Kyivs military administration said.

No fire has been reported from one of two passenger airports but emergency services were working on the site, officials added.

This comes a day before Moscow prepares to march its military forces for the cherished Victory Day holiday marking the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Blast heard in Odesa, say reports

03:00 , Liam James

Ukrainian media reported an explosion overnight in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

Air raid alerts were also reported in capital Kyiv, as well as in other regions of the country.

The Independent could not immediately confirm the reports.

Recent weeks have seen Russia resume airstrikes against Ukrainian cities following an attack on a Crimean fuel depot which Moscow blamed on Kyiv.

Ukraine is meanwhile preparing to launch a counteroffensive against Russian forces in occupied territory.

EU mulls sanctions on Chinese firms linked to Russian war effort

02:00 , Liam James

The European Union has proposed sanctions on Chinese companies accused of selling equipment that could be used in weapons to support Russias war machine, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

The blocs proposal follows a US move to sanction Chinese business for involvement with Russia. Last month, the US put five firms based in mainland China and Hong Kong on its entity list, barring them from trading with any US firms without gaining a nearly unobtainable special license.

Beijing protested, calling it an illegal move that endangers global supply chains.

Nine Ukrainian explosives experts killed in Kherson, says Zelensky

01:00 , Liam James

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly video address that nine Ukrainian explosives experts who were engaged in demining were killed in a single Russian attack in the southern Kherson region on Saturday.

They were ... restoring safety for our people, Mr Zelensky said.

Ukraine farmers risk losing their lives or livelihoods

Monday 8 May 2023 00:00 , Liam James

A grassy lane rutted with tire tracks leads to Volodymyr Zaiets farm in southern Ukraine. He is careful, driving only within those shallow grooves  veering away might cost him his life in the field dotted with explosive mines (Samya Kullab writes).

Weeds grow tall where rows of sunflowers once bloomed. Zaiets land hasnt been touched since the fall of 2021, when it was last seeded with wheat. Now, its a minefield left by retreating Russian forces.

Zaiets eschewed official warnings and demined this patch of land himself, determined not to lose the years harvest. He expects that 15 per cent of his 1,600 hectares (4,000 acres) of farmland was salvaged.

Click here to read on:

Ukraine farmers risk losing their lives or livelihoods

Ukraine bombards Crimea targets ahead of counteroffensive

Sunday 7 May 2023 23:00 , Liam James

Ukraine launched more than 10 drones overnight on the Crimean Peninsula, including three on the port of Sevastopol, a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday, adding that air defence systems repelled all the attacks on Sevastopol.

No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, said on the Telegram messaging app.

There were no immediate details of any damage from the strikes elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russias law enforcement agencies, reported earlier on Sunday that according to the channels preliminary information, there were no casualties in what it said was a series of attacks on Crimea.

Russian forces evacuate towns near Zaporizhzhia plant as IAEA warns of very real nuclear safety risk

Sunday 7 May 2023 22:00 , Liam James

Russian forces evacuated residents from a town near the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine on Sunday as the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog said he was extremely concerned about the safety of the facility.

Ukraines military said local Russian passport-holders were being taken to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

The evacuation, which could not be verified on the ground, comes as Ukraine is expected to launch a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory in the area.

Click here for the full story:

Russia evacuates towns near nuclear plant as IAEA warns of very real safety risk

Russian troops reportedly attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over last day

Sunday 7 May 2023 21:00 , Tara Cobham

Russian troops have attacked Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over the last day, according to The Kyiv Independent.

Putins forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, said Governor Yurii Malashko, although no casualties were reported.

He added homes and cars were damaged.

This comes as the UN has said the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station has become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous as Moscow-installed officials began evacuating people from nearby areas.

Wagner group appears to U-turn on Bakhmut withdrawal threat

Sunday 7 May 2023 20:00 , Liam James

Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to have to ditch plans to withdraw from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine, saying they had been promised more arms by Moscow and suggesting they may keep up their assault on what Russia sees as a stepping stone to other cities in the Donbas region.

Elsewhere, Ukrainian and Russian media reported explosions across Russian-occupied Crimea, and Russias defence ministry said its air defences had detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea overnight.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin had said on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded a months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out after being starved of ammunition and suffering useless and unjustified losses as a result.

But in an audio message posted on his Telegram channel on Sunday, he said: We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off (from supplies) will be deployed.

A spokesman for Russias defence ministry did not respond to a request for comment after Prigozhins latest statement.

Click here to read on:

Ukraine showing at Liverpool Eurovision opening

Sunday 7 May 2023 19:30 , Liam James

This years Eurovision acts are being welcomed to Liverpool with an opening ceremony.

The Turquoise Carpet ceremony opened on Sunday afternoon in the city, which is preparing to host the song contest final next Saturday on behalf of last years winners Ukraine.

Hosted by Olympian Sam Quek and Ukrainian presenter Timur Miroshnychenko, the ceremony will see all 37 acts take to the carpet for a welcome to the city.

Liverpool ceremony welcomes Eurovision competitors

Air raid alerts across Ukraine due to overnight strikes

Sunday 7 May 2023 18:45 , Adam Withnall

Air raid alerts blared for several hours overnight into early Sunday over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, with officials saying that air defence systems shot down a number of drones, including one over Kyivs airspace.

During the last air alert, an enemy reconnaissance UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) was detected in the airspace of Kyiv, the military administration of Kyiv said on the Telegram messaging app. The drone was destroyed ... Preliminarily, there have been no casualties or destruction.

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through to all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea. A Russian-installed official in Crimea said that Ukraine sent more than 10 drones over Crimea.

Putin is unprepared for the blowback his assault on Ukraine will bring Russia

Sunday 7 May 2023 18:00 , Liam James

Borzhou Daragahi, foreign correspondent, analyses this weeks puzzling attack on the Kremlin:

The small drones managed to bypass security surrounding the Kremlin, Russias most sacred political and religious site, before they were blasted out of the sky during the early morning hours of 3 May.

The Kremlin angrily described the drones as a Ukrainian and Western-backed assassination attempt against President Vladimir Putin. It almost definitely was not. It was yet another sign that the fallout from Putins disastrous war of imperial conquest was moving closer and closer to the heart of Russian power.

No one should take anything the Russian government says at face value because, well, its Russia. The drones did not appear particularly large or sophisticated. Putin, who has over the years slowly turned into a Bond villain caricature of himself, was probably at one of his compounds, bunkers or palaces and nowhere near the fortress-like presidential residence that is the formal seat of Russian power and a major tourist draw.

Russia is unprepared for the blowback to its assault on Ukraine | Borzou Daragahi

Watch: Zelensky congratulates King Charles on coronation

Sunday 7 May 2023 17:03 , Liam James

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Britains King Charles on his coronation on Saturday and offered him and the British people thanks for their support in the war against Russia.

He described the king and Queen Camilla, his wife, as true friends of Ukraine and said his reign marked the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy.

Britain has been a key Western partner supplying military aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded in February last year.

Security worries overshadow Russia's Victory Day preparations

Sunday 7 May 2023 15:46 , Tara Cobham

Russia stages its annual Victory Day parade on Red Square on Tuesday amid particularly tight security after a series of drone attacks, including on the Kremlin citadel, symbolic heart of the Russian state, which Moscow has blamed on Ukraine.

Victory Day is a key anniversary for President Vladimir Putin, who often evokes the spirit and sacrifice that helped the Soviet Union defeat Nazi Germany in 1945 to kindle Russians' sense of patriotism, especially since invading Ukraine.

However, Ukrainian intelligence has warned of Victory Day provocations by Russia. The Kyiv Independent suggested Moscow might stage false-flag attacks against Russian and Belarusian populations around 9 May, according to Ukraine's General Intelligence Directorate chief Andrii Usov.

Pope Francis reiterates his appeal for peace in Ukraine on Sunday

Sunday 7 May 2023 14:44 , Tara Cobham

Pope Francis reiterated his appeal for peace in Ukraine as he addressed crowds gathered in St Peters Square, Vatican City on Sunday.

Pope Francis reiterates his appeal for peace in Ukraine as he addressed crowds gathered in St Peters Square, Vatican City on Sunday (Getty Images)

Russian forces evacuating town near occupied nuclear plant, Kyiv says

Sunday 7 May 2023 14:00 , Tara Cobham

Russian forces are evacuating residents from the town that serves the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, the Ukrainanian military said on Sunday.

Ukraine is expected to start soon a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory, including in the Zaporizhzhia region.

In its morning update, Ukraine's General staff said Russian forces were evacuating local Russian passport-holders to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

"The first to be evacuated are those who accepted Russian citizenship in the first months of the occupation," it said in a statement.

The reports could not be independently verified.

The head of the U.N.'s nuclear power watchdog said on Saturday the situation around the station, Europe's largest, has become "potentially dangerous".

Both sides have accused one another of shelling the plant and efforts to secure a safety zone around it have failed.

Russian troops reportedly attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over last day

Sunday 7 May 2023 13:12 , Tara Cobham

Russian troops have attacked Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over the last day, according to The Kyiv Independent on Sunday.

Putins forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, said Governor Yurii Malashko, although no casualties were reported.

He added homes and cars were damaged.

This comes as the UN has said the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station has become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous as Moscow-installed officials began evacuating people from nearby areas.

 Russian troops attack Zaporizhzhia Oblast 75 times over past day.



Russian forces attacked 16 settlements near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast over the past 24 hours, Governor Yurii Malashko reported on May 7. No casualties were reported, but homes and cars were damaged.  The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) May 7, 2023

Russia claims it destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over Black Sea overnight

Sunday 7 May 2023 13:05 , Tara Cobham

Russia's air defences detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea overnight, the country's defence ministry said on Sunday in a daily briefing.

Russia's claim could not be independently verified. A Russian-installed official said earlier that Ukraine had launched drones at Crimea overnight, without providing details.

Separately, the defence ministry said its forces had gained more ground in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, claiming two "blocks" in the northwestern and western parts of the city.

Polish plane on EU border patrol narrowly avoids collision with Russian jet

Sunday 7 May 2023 12:29 , Tara Cobham

A Polish border guard aircraft on patrol for the European Union's border agency Frontex over the Black Sea near Romania narrowly avoided a collision with a Russian fighter jet on Friday, Romania and Poland said.

A Russian SU-35 jet carried out "aggressive and dangerous manoeuvres" approaching the Polish aircraft without keeping a secure distance, leading to turbulence, loss of altitude and a temporary loss of control of the plane by the Polish crew, Anna Michalska, a border guard spokesperson, wrote on Twitter on Sunday.

"The Russian jet flew just in front of the nose of the Polish plane, crossing its trajectory at a dangerous distance, estimated by the crew at about five metres," Michalska said.

After three approaches the Russian jet flew away, Michalska added. The incident took place in international airspace.

The Romanian Defence Ministry said in a press release that the Russian jet's behaviour was completely unacceptable.

"This incident is a further proof of the provocative approach of the Russian Federation in the Black Sea," the ministry said.

Two combat aircraft belonging to the Romanian Air Force and two from the Spanish Air Force designated for Air Police missions were alerted by the NATO Combined Air Operations Centre in Torrejon, Spain. While the four aircraft were ready to intervene at any moment, their intervention proved unnecessary, the ministry said.

"It looks like a planned provocation by Russia, the crew acted responsibly and luckily nothing happened. We can see that Russia is trying to draw international attention by such provocations," Polish government spokesman Piotr Muller told private television Polsat News on Sunday.

Russia's Wagner group signals it will stay in Bakhmut after threat to quit

Sunday 7 May 2023 11:17 , Tara Cobham

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group appeared on Sunday to ditch plans to withdraw his forces from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine after receiving promises overnight that they would get all the arms needed to capture the devastated city.

Yevgeny Prigozhin announced on Friday that his fighters, who have spearheaded the months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out because he said his men had been starved of ammunition and had suffered "useless and unjustified" losses as a result.

Prigozhin, who has publicly heaped scorn on Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and the top army brass over their conduct of the war in Ukraine, said officials in Moscow consumed by "petty jealousy" were holding back crucial supplies to his men.

However in an audio message posted on his Telegram channel on Sunday, Prigozhin said: "Overnight we received a combat order, for the first time in all this time."

"We have been promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue further operations. We have been promised that everything needed to prevent the enemy from cutting us off (from supplies) will be deployed on the flank," he added.

The battle for Bakhmut, which Russia sees as a stepping stone to other cities in Ukraine's Donbas region still beyond its control, has been the most intense of the conflict, costing thousands of lives on both sides in months of grinding warfare.

Ukrainian troops have been pushed back in recent weeks but have clung on in the city to inflict as many Russian losses as possible ahead of Kyiv's planned big push against the invading forces along the 1,000 km (620 mile) front line.

Prigozhin also said on Sunday that Russia's Defence Ministry had assigned General Sergei Surovikin to work alongside Wagner.

"This is the only man with the star of an army general who knows how to fight," he added.

Surovikin commanded Russia's Ukraine campaign for several months before the chief of the General Staff, Army Army General Valery Gerasimov, was given overall operational command above him.

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, appeared on Sunday to ditch plans to withdraw his forces from Bakhmut (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Exclusive: Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counterattack begins

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:58 , Tara Cobham

Success for Ukraine in its long-awaited counterattack against Russia could spell the complete collapse of Vladimir Putins military or even the Russian economy, a Ukrainian minister predicts.

Speaking in an interview with The Independent, deputy defence minister Volodymyr Havrylov was deliberately vague about the timing of the offensive, which is expected imminently as the mud and rains of spring give way to more favourable fighting conditions.

But when it does come  very soon was the timing set out this week by Volodymr Zelensky  the offensive will expose Russias tightly controlled propaganda regarding the war effort and lead to a reckoning among ordinary Russians, said Mr Havrylov.

Arpan Rai reports.

Ukraine says whole of Russia will panic when counterattack begins: They will suffer the consequences

Russia's Wagner chief says he was promised arms to continue fighting in Bakhmut

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:29 , Tara Cobham

The head of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said on Sunday he had been promised overnight as much ammunition and weaponry as needed to continue a months-long assault on the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

Prigozhin's comment, made on his Telegram messaging app channel, came two days after he announced plans to withdraw from Bakhmut complaining that his men had been starved of ammunition and had suffered "useless and unjustified" losses as a result.

Russia claims its destroyed two British made howitzers in Ukraine

Sunday 7 May 2023 10:00 , Tara Cobham

Russia has claimed it has destroyed two British-made howitzers, which were being used by Ukraine in Donetsk.

Alexander Gordeyev, a Russian military spokesman, told the Russian news agency TASS the suicide drones were also used to destroy a similar UK howitzer and a Buk-M1 anti-aircraft system used by Ukraine near Maksimovka.

Lancet loitering munition destroyed an enemys UK-made L119 howitzer in the area of Shevchenko, he said.

The munition is a small drone with a range of up to 25 miles and is one of Moscows most advanced weapons, used for reconnaissance or attack missions.

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb with Russia blaming Ukraine and US

Sunday 7 May 2023 09:23 , Tara Cobham

A prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, has allegedly been wounded in a car bombing that killed his driver  an attack that Russia immediately blamed on Ukraine and the West.

The state Investigative Committee said the writer's Audi Q7 was blown up in a village in the Nizny Novgorod region, about 250 miles (400km) east of Moscow, which it was treating as an act of terrorism. It said Prilepin had been taken to hospital.

The committee released a photograph showing the white vehicle lying overturned on a track next to a wood, with a deep crater beside it and fragments of metal strewn nearby.

An interior ministry spokeswoman said a suspect had been arrested. State news agency TASS quoted security sources suggesting the suspect was a "native of Ukraine" with a past conviction for robbery with violence.

Interfax news agency quoted a source in the emergency services as saying Prilepin's condition was serious and doctors would operate on him.

Pro-Kremlin Russian writer and publicist Zakhar Prilepin is claimed to have been injured in a car bomb (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A view shows a damaged white Audi Q7 car lying overturned on a track next to a wood, after Russian nationalist writer Zakhar Prilepin was allegedly wounded in a bomb attack in a village in the Nizhny Novgorod region (REUTERS)

Widespread air raid alerts in Ukraine as drone shot down over Kyiv

Sunday 7 May 2023 08:36 , Tara Cobham

Air raid alerts blared for several hours overnight into early Sunday over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, with officials saying that air defence systems shot down a number of drones, including one over Kyiv's airspace.

"During the last air alert, an enemy reconnaissance UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) was detected in the airspace of Kyiv," the military administration of Kyiv said on the Telegram messaging app. "The drone was destroyed ... Preliminarily, there have been no casualties or destruction."

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through to all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea. A Russian-installed official in Crimea said that Ukraine sent more than 10 drones over Crimea.

Local officials in several Ukrainian regions reported that air defence systems were deployed overnight, but there was no immediate information early on Sunday on potential casualties or damages.

Gas pipeline, power lines damaged in Ukraine attacks on Russia's Belgorod - governor

Sunday 7 May 2023 07:55 , Tara Cobham

Overnight Ukrainian shelling of the Belgorod region on Russia's border with Ukraine damaged a gas pipeline and power lines as well as a house in the village of Spodaryushino, the region's governor said on Sunday.

"Most importantly, there were no casualties," Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

The report could not be independently verified.

The Belgorod region is one of several in southern Russia where targets such as fuel and ammunition stores have been rocked by explosions since the start of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Ukraine almost never publicly claims responsibility for attacks inside Russia and on Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine, but it has said recently that destroying infrastructure is preparation for its planned ground assault.

UN nuclear watchdog warns of new dangers around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

Sunday 7 May 2023 06:00 , Adam Withnall

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog has warned that the situation around the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia nuclear station had become increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, calling for measures to ensure its safe operation.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, issued the warning in view of what he said were evacuations under way in the nearby town of Enerhodar, ordered by the local Russian-installed governor.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, Grossi said on the agencys website.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant. We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment.

Russian forces seized the Zaporizhzhia plant days after Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of his neighbour in February 2022. Exchanges of fire have frequently occurred near the facility, with each side blaming the other.

Grossi visited the Zaporizhzhia station, Europes largest nuclear power installation, in March, as part of efforts to speak to both sides to secure an agreement on safeguards to ensure the plants safe operation.

He has repeatedly warned of the dangers of military operations around the plant.

Russia last September proclaimed the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, including Zaporizhzhia region.

The plant is located in the part of that region under Russian control, with many of the staff operating it living in Enerhodar on the south bank of the Dnipro River.

Yevgeny Balitsky, Russian-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of Zaporizhzhia region, said on Friday he had ordered the evacuation of villages close to the frontline with Ukrainian forces there. He said Ukrainian shelling had intensified in the area in recent days.

A widely expected Ukrainian spring counteroffensive against Russian forces is viewed as likely to take in the Zaporizhzhia region, around 80 per cent of which is held by Moscow.

Ukraine bombards Crimea targets' ahead of counteroffensive

Sunday 7 May 2023 04:50 , Adam Withnall

Ukraine launched more than 10 drones overnight on the Crimean Peninsula, including three on the port of Sevastopol, a Russian-installed official said early on Sunday, adding that air defence systems repelled all the attacks on Sevastopol.

No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Moscow-installed governor of Sevastopol, said on the Telegram messaging app.

There were no immediate details of any damage from the strikes elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia illegally annexed from Ukraine in 2014.

Baza, a Telegram channel with links to Russias law enforcement agencies, reported earlier on Sunday that according to the channels preliminary information, there were no casualties in what it said was a series of attacks on Crimea.

According to Ukrainian monitoring of Telegram channels, explosions took place in Sevastopol and Saki - where Russia has an air base - as well as a few other places.

Strikes on Russian-held targets have intensified in the past two weeks, especially in Crimea. Ukraine, without confirming any role in those attacks, says destroying infrastructure is preparation for its long-awaited counterattack.

The happy coincidence nod to Ukraine at Kings coronation

Sunday 7 May 2023 03:00 , Martha Mchardy

The carpets at Westminster Abbey, upon which King Charles and Queen Camilla were crowned on Saturday 6 May, resembled the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine.

After months of preparations and anticipation, the United Kingdom has crowned its new king and queen.

Photos and videos showed that the carpets inside the royal church were blue and yellow, resembling the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

Maanya Sachdeva reports:

The happy coincidence nod to Ukraine at Kings coronation

Firefighter tells of humbling experience delivering equipment for Ukraine

Sunday 7 May 2023 02:00 , Martha Mchardy

A firefighter who was part of a convoy of fire engines and lorries delivering life-saving equipment for Ukraine has described the experience as very humbling after reaching Poland.

The timing of the shipment is meant to honour the Eurovision link between Ukraine and the UK, with the vehicles leaving Liverpool on Tuesday, the city which will host the competition later this month.

Darren Cleaves, station manager for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, was in Poland to help deliver fire engines as well as life-saving equipment for Ukrainian firefighters.

Sarah Ping reports:

Firefighter tells of humbling experience delivering equipment for Ukraine

What is Wagners role in Ukraine?

Sunday 7 May 2023 01:00 , Martha Mchardy

Wagner has taken an increasingly visible role in the war in Ukraine as regular Russian troops have suffered heavy attrition and lost control over territory in humiliating setbacks.

Prigozhin claimed full credit in January for capturing the Donetsk region salt-mining town of Soledar and accused the Russian Defense Ministry of trying to steal Wagners glory. He has repeatedly complained that the Russian military failed to supply Wagner with sufficient ammunition to capture Bakhmut, the reason he cited Friday for his withdrawal threat.

Wagner group owner Yevgeny Prigozhin (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Prigozhin has toured Russian prisons to recruit fighters, promising inmates pardons if they survived a half-year tour of front-line duty with Wagner.

The U.S. estimates Wagner has about 50,000 personnel fighting in Ukraine, including 10,000 contractors and 40,000 of the convicts the company enlisted.

A U.S. official says nearly half of the 20,000 Russian forces killed in Ukraine since December have been Wagners troops in Bakhmut.

The U.S. assesses that Wagner is spending about $100 million a month in the fight and has taken delivery of weapons from North Korea, including rockets and missiles.

Ukraine claims to have shot down Russian hypersonic missile in slap in face for Putin

Sunday 7 May 2023 00:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraines air force has claimed to have downed a Russian hypersonic missile over Kyiv using newly-acquired American Patriot defence systems  the first known time the country has been able to intercept one of Moscows most modern missiles.

Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk said that the Kinzhal-type ballistic missile had been intercepted in an overnight attack on the Ukrainian capital earlier in the week. It was also the first time Ukraine is known to have used the Patriot defence systems.

It comes as Kyiv accused Moscow of using phosphorus munitions in the eastern city of Bakhmut. Drone footage released by the Ukrainian military shows parts of the city  the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting of the war  ablaze as what is alleged to be white phosphorus rains down.

David Rising reports:

Ukraine says it has shot down Russian hypersonic missile in slap in face for Putin

Russia's Prigozhin says no further offensive in Bakhmut possible without ammunition

Saturday 6 May 2023 23:38 , Martha Mchardy

The head of Russias mercenary Wagner Group said on Saturday that he had still not received additional ammunition from Moscow ahead of the expected withdrawal of his forces from Bakhmut because of heavy losses and inadequate supplies.

As of today, no one has come to replenish ammunition, to provide it in the necessary volume, Prigozhin said in an audio message posted on the Telegram channel of his press service. There can be no offensive without a counter-battery fight, without defeating the enemys means.

Wagner forces, he said, had no ammunition and could not pursue any further offensives near the city, under Russian siege for some 10 months.

Because I will lead more men to certain death. On the 10th (of May), we will start withdrawing units, he said.

He added that his forces have taken 95% of Bakhmut, a city in eastern Ukraine that had a population of more than 70,000 before the war.

Prigozhin has, however, prematurely claimed successes before. Reuters was not able to independently verify the claim.

The remaining 5% plays no role in the so-called development of success and the Red Armys march to the West, he said.

Ukraine leads world reaction to King Charles IIIs coronation

Saturday 6 May 2023 23:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraine released an upbeat video to congratulate Britains King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their historic coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, where world leaders gathered to witness the once-in-a-generation royal event.

The video released by Ukraines defence ministry was edited to the tune of London Calling by The Clash, and showed British weaponry deployed to the Ukrainian frontline and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky meeting King Charles and British prime minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Keir Starmer and former prime minister Boris Johnson.

On the eve of the historic coronation, wed like to thank our British friends for your friendship. We are grateful for your unwavering support and partnership, especially in the past year! the defence ministry said on Twitter.

Shweta Sharma reports:

Ukraine leads world reaction to King Charless coronation

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb

Saturday 6 May 2023 22:00 , Martha Mchardy

A prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, has been wounded in a car bombing that killed his driver  an attack that Russia immediately blamed on Ukraine and the West.

The state Investigative Committee said the writers Audi Q7 was blown up in a village in the Nizny Novgorod region, about 250 miles (400km) east of Moscow, which it was treating as an act of terrorism. It said Prilepin had been taken to hospital.

The committee released a photograph showing the white vehicle lying overturned on a track next to a wood, with a deep crater beside it and fragments of metal strewn nearby.

Mark Trevelyan reports:

Pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin wounded by car bomb

Watch: CCTV captures moment Ukraine ammunition depot explodes

Saturday 6 May 2023 21:30 , Martha Mchardy

What are white phosphorus bombs?

Saturday 6 May 2023 21:00 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraine has accused Russia of attacking the besieged eastern city of Bakhmut with phosphorus munitions.

Drone footage released by the UKrainian military, shows parts of the city  the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting of the war  ablaze as what is alleged to be white phosphorus rains down. While white phosphorus weapons are not banned in their entirety, but their use in civilian areas is considered a war crime.

Writing on Twitter, Ukraines defence ministry said the phosphorus attack targeted unoccupied areas of Bakhmut with incendiary ammunition  although it is unclear exactly when the alleged attack took place.

Joe Sommerlad reports:

All we know about deadly white phosphorus bombs Russia accused of using in Ukraine

Watch: Ukraine accuses Russia of using phosphorus munitions in Bakhmut

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:45 , Martha Mchardy

Air raid alerts issued for most of eastern Ukraine

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:38 , Martha Mchardy

Ukrainian officials issued air raid alerts on Saturday evening for areas covering roughly two-thirds of the country.

The alerts extended from the capital Kyiv and regions to the west of it through all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Russian-annexed Crimea.

Ukraine raises hundreds of millions of dollars for counteroffensive

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:36 , Martha Mchardy

Hundreds of millions of dollars have been raised by Ukraine for a spring counteroffensive to retake Russian-occupied territory.

Ukraine has reportedly raised $325 million dollars to spend on drones for the counteroffensive through crowdfunding from 110 countries.

The project aims to launch 60 companies to produce attack drones, according to reports.

Preparation for the counteroffensive has also involved training 10,000 drone pilots.

Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraines deputy prime minister and minister for innovation, said: We have recently completed the first part of the UAV pilot training project; 10,000 pilots have been trained during this time.That is, the Drone Army is about the comprehensive development of the UAV sector, both from the point of view of production and from the point of view of their use.

Wagner chief claims of limited munitions after Bakhmut withdrawal could be legitimate, according to leaked documents

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:30 , Martha Mchardy

The head of the Russian private military company Wagners claim that limited munitions which lead to his withdrawal from Bakhmut could be legitimate, according to leaked documents.

Prigozhin said on Friday that his troops will leave the besieged eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, citing a lack of ammunition supplies that he blamed on Russias military command.

The documents, leaked on Discord said military officials could not decisively say whether Wagner was receiving munitions because they were not directly distributed by the Russian defence ministry, according to The Washington Post.

The documents also noted that Prigozhins claims could be legitimate.

Deputy Minister of Defence Gerasimov reportedly ordered to stop munitions supplies  and also planned military transport flights, which were set to transport munitions to Wagners headquarters in Rostov-on-Don, the documents state.

However, as Prigozhin public statements escalated the Defence Ministry proposed doubling the munitions supply to Wagner, and in February the ministry said Prigozhin claims about munitions were untrue.

The Wagner chief responded to this by posting pictures of the dead soldiers and a request for munitions directly to Gerasimov. The documents reportedly indicate that Prigozhin was called to a meeting with president Putin as a result of this.

The meeting almost certainly concerned, at least in part, Prigozhins public accusations and resulting tension with Shoygu, one document said.

Russian forces claim to have destroyed two British-made howitzers in Donetsk

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:26 , Martha Mchardy

Russian forces have claimed to have destroyed two British-made howitzers used by Ukrainian forces in Donetsk.

Russian military spokesman Alexander Gordeyev said a Lancet loitering munition destroyed an enemys UK-made L119 howitzer in the area of Shevchenko.

The Lancet loitering munition has a range of us to 25 miles and is one of Russias most sophisticated weapons.

Leaked files show tension between Russian military and Wagner chief

Saturday 6 May 2023 20:00 , Martha Mchardy

Leaked files show tensions between the Russian military and the head of the private Russian military company Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin.

The documents, allegedly leaked on Discord, indicate that the Russian military leadership struggled to respond to Prigozhins public statements, The Washington Post reports.

One document stated: The officials initially noted that, if the MoD was going to try to counter Prigozhins public statements, they should find allies of equal status to fight Prigozhin rather than doing so itself.

However, they were ultimately unsure how the MoD could successfully fight an information war with Prigozhin if the Russian government did not forbid Prigozhin from making public releases, according to The Washington Post.

Prigozhin personally appealed to president Putin to intervene.

Russian foreign ministry says Ukraine and West responsible for attack on writer

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:56 , Martha Mchardy

Russias Foreign Ministry on Saturday said Ukraine and Western countries backing it were responsible for a car bombing that injured a Russian writer and killed his driver.

A ministry statement, quoted by Russian news agencies, said: Responsibility for this and other terrorist acts lies not only with Ukrainian authorities, but also their Western patrons, the United States in the first instance....

The statement said Washingtons failure to denounce this and other attacks was self-revealing for the U.S. administration.

Ukraines security service will not confirm or deny involvement in Russia attack

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:56 , Martha Mchardy

Ukraines SBU security service told the state Ukrinform news agency on Saturday it could not confirm or deny involvement in a car bombing that injured a Russian writer or other attacks.

Officially, we cannot confirm or deny the SBUs involvement in this or other explosions which occur with the occupiers or their henchmen, Ukrinform quoted the agency as saying.

Russia says bomber who injured novelist acted for Ukraine

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:55 , Martha Mchardy

Russias top investigative agency on Saturday said the suspect in a car bombing that injured a prominent pro-Kremlin novelist and killed his driver has admitted acting at the behest of Ukraines special services.

The blast that hit the car of Zakhar Prilepin, a well-known nationalist writer and an ardent supporter of Russias war in Ukraine, was the third explosion involving prominent pro-Kremlin figures since the start of the conflict.

Russias Investigative Committee said the suspect was a Ukrainian native and had admitted under questioning that he was working under orders from Ukraine.

The Foreign Ministry in turn blamed not only Ukraine but the United States as well.Responsibility for this and other terrorist acts lies not only with the Ukrainian authorities, but with their Western patrons, in the first place, the United States, who since the coup detat of February 2014 have painstakingly nurtured the anti-Russian neo-Nazi project in Ukraine, the ministry said, referring to the 2014 uprising in Kyiv that forced the Russia-friendly president to flee.

In August 2022, a car bombing on the outskirts of Moscow killed Daria Dugina, the daughter of an influential Russian political theorist often referred to as Putins brain. The authorities alleged that Ukraine was behind the blast.

Last month, an explosion in a cafe in St. Petersburg killed a popular military blogger, Vladlen Tatarsky. Officials once again blamed Ukrainian intelligence agencies.

Russian news outlet RBC reported, citing unnamed sources, that Prilepin was travelling back to Moscow on Saturday from Ukraines partially occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions and stopped in the Nizhny Novogorod region for a meal.

Who is writer Zakhar Prilepin - target of car bomb in Russia?

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:30 , Martha Mchardy

Zakhar Prilepin, 47, is the author of six novels, often focusing on dark themes. His debut novel The Pathologies told the story of young soldiers in the Chechen wars. He has also written numerous poems, essays and articles, and is the recipient of various state awards including a 2021 arts prize from the defence ministry.

He is an outspoken pro-war figure on social media, with around 300,000 subscribers each to his Telegram and YouTube channels.

Russia Novelist Zakhar Prilepin (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

For years, he has organised Russian proxy fighters in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, boasting in a 2019 YouTube interview that his unit killed people in big numbers. The extent of his direct combat involvement is not clear.

Mr Prilepin has been politically active as the co-chair of the A Just Russia - For Truth party. Last year he took a prominent role in creating GRAD, a parliamentary group that seeks to identify cultural figures with anti-Russian views and persuade the state and business to stop funding them. GRADs initials stand for Group to investigate anti-Russian activity in the cultural sphere. Grad is also the Russian word for hail, and the name of a missile system.

Since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine last February, he has been sanctioned by Switzerland, Britain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the European Union

Watch: Moment malfunctioning Ukrainian drone shot down over Kyiv

Saturday 6 May 2023 19:00 , Martha Mchardy
KYIV (Reuters) - Russia has effectively stopped the Black sea grain deal by refusing to register incoming vessels, Ukraine's reconstruction ministry said on Monday.

Ukrainian Black Sea ports were blockaded after Russia's invasion last year, but access to three of them was cleared last July under a deal between Moscow and Kyiv that was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.

"The Russian Federation once again effectively stopped the Grain Initiative by refusing to register incoming vessels and carry out their inspections. This approach contradicts the terms of the current agreement," the ministry said in a statement.

It said that 90 ships, including 62 vessels for loading, were waiting in Turkey's territorial waters for approval to go to Ukrainian ports.

The deal expires on May 18. Moscow has threatened to quit the agreement intended to help ease a global food crisis. Turkey and the United Nations are working to extend the deal.

(Reporting by Olena Harmash; editing by Tom Balmforth and Barbara Lewis)
A Russian air assault on Kyiv was swatted aside Monday when the Ukraine military shot down all 35 Iranian-made drones, but their fiery, shattered remnants injured residents and damaged vehicles, the Ukraine Air Force said.

Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours in the pre-dawn hours across Kyiv. The drone attack was the most severe assault on Ukraine's capital since the start of the war, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.

In Kyiv's Svyatoshinsky district, the facade of a high-rise residential building was damaged and windows were shattered. Debris fell onto roads, damaging at least seven cars, the city administration said. In the Solomensky district, 15 trucks and five cars were damaged. A gas pipe also was hit, igniting a blaze that was doused when the gas was turned off.

Elsewhere, Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed four civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said. The assault came as Moscow enforced tight security on the eve of traditional Victory Day commemorations in Red Square marking the surrender of Nazi Germany in World War II. It also came as Russian forces claimed the Ukraine city of Bakhmut, a focus of the fighting for months, could soon fall.

"The Russians still hope to capture the city by May 9. Our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said after visiting the front line near Bakhmut.

Developments:

 Anxiety about the safety of Europes largest nuclear power plant was growing after the Moscow-installed governor of the Ukrainian region ordered civilian evacuations, raising fears that fighting in the area would intensify. International Atomic Energy Agency officials have tried to persuade the combatants to establish a security zone around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

The evacuations ordered by the Russia-backed governor of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia province, Yegeny Balitsky, Balitsky on Friday ordered civilians to leave 18 Russian-occupied communities, including Enerhodar, home to most of the plant staff.

Story continues

The Berlin Higher Administrative Court threw out permits that would have allowed the flags of Russia and the Soviet Union to be displayed at a Soviet war memorial in Berlin. Officials in the city also lifted a ban on flying the Ukraine flag at the sites.

 Russia has halted registration and inspections of the incoming fleet of ships seeking to transport Ukraine grain under a U.N.-mediated initiative, Ukraine officials said Monday. About 90 ships reportedly are awaiting Russian inspections.

 European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit Kyiv on Tuesday and meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky to "reaffirm the EU's unwavering support for Ukraine," the commission's press service reported.

Beijing chafes at EU plan to sanction Chinese businesses

A European Union proposal to sanction Chinese businesses supporting Moscows war efforts  a first since Russia's invasion began more than 14 months ago  is drawing stiff opposition in Beijing. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, speaking at a briefing Monday, said trust between the EU and China will be destroyed if Brussels imposes sanctions on Chinese companies accused of helping Russia. A new, 11th package of sanctions that includes sanctions against several Chinese companies could be discussed Wednesday at a meeting of EU ambassadors, the Financial Times reports.

"If the relevant reports are true, then the European side may seriously violate trust and cooperation with China, exacerbate the split and confrontation in the world," the diplomat said.

Abrams tanks being stripped of sensitive technology

Ukraine is gearing up for an expected spring counteroffensive in its war with Russia, but U.S.-supplied Abrams tanks are months from reaching the front lines. The tanks are being modified to remove sensitive technology that otherwise could fall into the hands of Russian forces, a necessary precaution in case the Russians capture one of the vehicles and exploit them for intelligence, U.S. officials and military experts said.

"It may or may not present opportunities for Russia to do testing on it, and to look for vulnerabilities," said Colin Smith, an expert on the Russian military at the RAND Corp., a non-partisan think tank. Read more here.

Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY

Victory Day parades canceled across much of Russia

Russian media counted at least 21 Russian cities that canceled military parades marking Victory Day celebrations for the first time in years. Regional officials cited security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation.

Parades will take place Tuesday in Russias largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities. In St. Petersburg, which is often referred to as northern Venice for its network of rivers and canals, using Jet Skis in certain parts of the city has been prohibited until May 10. In the Russian capital, ride sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city center  drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there.

MORE ON UKRAINE: Fearing Russian capture, US strips sensitive tech from M1 Abrams tanks headed for Ukraine

Residents stand next to a building that was damaged in Russian shelling in Komyshevakha, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, on May 8, 2023.

Kremlin uses tanks, drones and more in assaults

The Kremlins forces used tanks, drones, mortars, warplanes, multiple rocket launchers and surface-to-air missiles to bombard Ukraine, the report said. Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said. One person was killed and three wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat. Six Russian rockets also struck the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk during the night, a regional official reported Monday.

The missiles targeted the citys industrial zone and caused no casualties, Donetsk regional governor Petro Kyrylenko said in a Telegram post.

Zelenskyy equates Russian leaders with Nazis

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday that he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9. The dates align Ukraine with Europe's commemorations instead of Russia's.

Zelenskyy equated Russias goals in Ukraine to those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

Wagner Group secures more resources in Bakhmut

Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov may have compelled the Russian theater commander in Ukraine, Army General Valery Gerasimov, to resume artillery ammunition distribution to the Wagner forces in Bakhmut, a Washington-based think tank says.

Prigozhin said Sunday that he had obtained a document from the Russian Ministry of Defense promising the ammunition and weapons necessary to maintain offensive operations in Bakhmut. Prigozhin last week threatened that Wagner fighters could pull out of the embattled city, where they have for weeks been Russias main assault force. He accused Russias military command of starving Wagner of ammunition and causing it heavy losses.

A Ukrainian military spokesman on Monday scoffed at Prigozhins claims. Serhii Cherevaty, a spokesman for the Eastern Group of Forces, said on Ukrainian TV that "there are more than enough shells to fire at our positions.

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine Russia war live updates: Drones shot down over Kyiv
Ukraine says it has shot down dozens of drones over Kyiv, fending off the latest onslaught from Russia.

Kyivs mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that Russia launched nearly 60 Iranian-made drones, 36 of which rained down on the capital. Ukraine shot down all the rockets over Kyiv, but falling debris left damage.

Ukraines Defense Ministry gave a slightly different figure, saying 30 rockets targeted Kyiv specifically, and 35 of 35 Russian drones were shot down.

The Kyiv City Military Administration said on Telegram that five people in the capital were injured in the latest bout of attacks. Additional shelling elsewhere killed three civilians, the defense ministry reportedly said.

Russia has used such Iranian-made drones before, turning to Iran for military aid as it faces economic sanctions elsewhere.

The attacks came as Ukraine marks a day of remembrance for World War II and the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Unfortunately, evil has returned. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Telegram.

Russias war on Ukraine has waged on for more than a year. Moscow last week claimed it stopped a Kyiv attack and assassination attempt against Russian President Vladimir Putins residence, though Ukrainian officials rejected the allegations.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Andrii Yusov, the representative of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, believes that the statements of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Private Military Company, about the Ukrainian offensive are part of the preparation of Russian elites for life after defeat in the war with Ukraine.

Source: Yusov in an interview with RBC-Ukraine

Yusov was asked why, in his opinion, Prigozhin is so active in commenting on the upcoming Ukrainian offensive

Quote: "People like Prigozhin, when we talk about Russian so-called society, if they say something, they say it not only on their own behalf but on behalf of their partners, patrons, who allow such statements and such speeches.

A part of the Russian so-called political and ruling elite is considering various scenarios, including planning some kind of life after Putin, after the defeat in the war with Ukraine. That's why they are preparing for various apocalyptic (but actually realistic) scenarios for Russia.

I think that this is not even one wing; these are different environments that can compete with each other. For example, Prigozhin and Girkin, to put it mildly, do not like each other in the public sphere. But their narratives often point to the same problems in the occupying army. Therefore, they are different environments."

Details: In his opinion, the number of "environments" will only grow.

Yusov called Prigozhin's statement about the withdrawal of the Wagnerites from Bakhmut a preparation for "searching for the extreme" in the future:

Quote: "If in a few months the situation for the Russian army is miserable on several fronts, including in the east, they will be looking for the blame game. Of course, in this situation, Prigozhin will show his statements from a few months ago and say: I'm definitely not the last man standing.."

Background:

On 5 May, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner private military company, wrote a letter to the Russian Defence Ministry stating that he would be withdrawing his mercenaries from Bakhmut after 10 May. He claimed that the reason for the move was that the Ministry of Defence did not give his fighters enough ammunition, and he did not want his people to be "doomed to a senseless death" because of this.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine are sceptical about the claim made by Prigozhin.

Later, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov offered his assistance with the occupation of Bakhmut.

On 6 May, Prigozhin announced that he would supposedly hand over the positions of his fighters in Bakhmut to Kadyrov's soldiers.

On 7 May, Prigozhin claimed that he had received a combat instruction  presumably from the Russian Ministry of Defence  saying that his soldiers would receive ammunition and weapons.

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Ukraine's long-anticipated counteroffensive may not be as big as Kyiv leaders once advertised. Muhammed Enes Yildirim/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Ukraine is trying to couch expectations for its long-awaited counteroffensive against Russia.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov told The Washington Post he fears the attack is being "overestimated."

Reznikov worries if the attack isn't successful, Ukraine will lose support from its Western allies.

Ukraine is worried Western allies will stop sending weapons and aid if Kyiv's anticipated counteroffensive against Russian troops turns out to be a dud  and its defense minister is backpedaling after hyping up the attack.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov told The Washington Post that while Ukraine is eager to launch a strong attack after months of attrition warfare in the country's east, officials are concerned that the counteroffensive has been "overestimated" by world leaders.

If people are hoping for "something huge," the actual results of the attack could lead to "emotional disappointment," Reznikov told the Post.

Reznikov's cautious messaging comes just days after he boasted that Ukraine was ready to launch its attack and that Western-supplied weapons would serve as an "iron fist" in the counter-offensive.

Part of the pressure, Reznikov now says, comes from Ukraine's surprise success last year. It took advantage of Russia's miscalculations and missteps, preventing an invasion of Kyiv early in the war. Kyiv also launched two major counteroffensives, retaking Kharkiv and forcing a Russian retreat in Kherson.

"We inspired everywhere because the perception was that we will fall during 72 hours," Reznikov said, according to the Post. But the track record means Ukraine's partners now have a "joint expectation that it would be successful again," he added.

Reznikov said allies have told him they now need a "next example of a success because we need to show it to our people."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Consequences of one of the latest Russian attacks on Kyiv at the beginning of May

"There will always be a possibility of escalation, regardless of the date, as long as the war continues," she wrote on May 8, a day before Russia marks the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Read also: Only one foreign leader to visit Moscow for Victory Day on May 9

Russia still refers to the Second World War as the Great Patriotic War of 1941-195 to obscure its role as an ally of Nazi Germany from 1939 to 1941 and to diminish the contribution of the Western allies, primarily the UK and the United States, to defeating Nazi Germany.

It is true that Russians love dates and historical parallels. But there have already been many historical and festive dates on which they have not escalated, Malyar said.

She added that Ukrainians should always be prepared for the enemy's cunning, but said that an escalation "may or may not happen."

Read also: Russia wants to conduct punitive provocations against Ukraine during May 9 celebrations, presidential advisor warns

Earlier, the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine reported that Russian special services may be preparing provocations against the civilian population of Russia and Belarus on May 9.

In Russia, military parades have been canceled in 21 cities and in Ukraines Russian-occupied Crimea.

Since the beginning of May, the Russian military has intensified its attackson Ukraine, with the aggressor using kamikaze drones and missiles to attack.

In the early hours of May 8, Kyiv was attacked by Shahed drones, all 35 of which were shot down by air defense forces.

However, five people were injured in the capital as a result of the overnight attack, with debris falling on a residential building and the runway of the capitals Zhuliany international airport.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Ukrainian air defence has shot down three Russian UAVs in Kherson Oblast on 8 May.

Source: press service of the Ukrainian Air Force

Details: Air defence forces of Air Command Pivden (South) destroyed three Russian unmanned aerial vehicles in Kherson Oblast on 8 May.

The report states that these were two Lancet attack UAVs and a ZALA drone.

For reference: Lancet UAV is a Russian loitering munition. ZALA is a drone that Russia claims is "invulnerable and invisible to electronic warfare systems".

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Ukraines Defence Forces have downed and destroyed all 35 Shahed drones the Russians deployed to attack Ukraine on the night of 78 May.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook; Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Telegram

Quote from the General Staff: "On the night of 78 May, enemy forces once again attacked Ukraine, this time deploying Iranian-made Shahed attack drones.

35 out of 35 drones were destroyed by our Defence Forces."

Details: The Air Force said that all 35 drones targeted Kyiv Oblast from the north, in particular the Seshcha airfield in Russias Bryansk Oblast. Air defence personnel and military assets from the Tsentr (Centre) Command and units of Ukraines Defence Forces destroyed all 35 Shahed-136/131 drones.

The Air Force also reported that Russian forces deployed Tu-22m3 long-range bombers to attack Odesa Oblast, firing eight missiles from the area near Cape Tarkhankut in Russian-occupied Crimea. Some of the missiles failed to reach their targets.

Previously:

Several buildings in different parts of Kyiv sustained damage as a result of a Russian overnight drone attack.

Russian strategic aircraft deployed Kh-22 missiles in an attack on Odesa Oblast on the night of 78 May, causing several fires.

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Antiaircraft gunners with an air-defense unit of Ukraine's national guard on a combat mission in August. Vyacheslav Madiyevskyi/ Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Ukraine's flexible and adaptive air defenses have forced Russia to change its drone tactics.

Most recently, Russia has used large salvos of carefully routed drones to avoid Ukrainian defenses.

The dynamic is an example of Ukrainian effectiveness and Russian ability to learn, one expert said.

Ukraine's flexible and adaptive air defenses have forced Russia to change its drone tactics.

Instead of launching a few Iranian-made Shahed-136 kamikaze drones at a time, Russia is sending large salvos and carefully routing them to avoid Ukrainian defenses.

Ukrainian interception rates have gotten "good enough that the Russians are now kind of saving up their Iranian production allocations until they have large amounts," Justin Bronk, an airpower expert at Britain's Royal United Services Institute, said on an April episode of the "Geopolitics Decanted" podcast.

Now Russia is launching "maybe 30 or 40" at a time, Bronk said.

Ukrainian troops with a homemade antiaircraft machine gun to destroy drones in Mykolaiv on November 9. STR/NurPhoto via Getty Images

This marks yet another turn in the drone war between Russia and Ukraine. In the days after Russia invaded in February 2022, Ukrainian drones armed with anti-tank missiles or even homemade bombs wreaked havoc on Russian armored columns.

Then in late summer, just as Ukraine seemed able to keep Russian airpower at bay, Moscow began pounding Ukrainian infrastructure with waves of cheap Shahed drones, which overwhelmed Ukrainian air defenses.

"Drip-feeding lots and lots of Shaheds for several months" also depleted Ukraine's stockpile of air-defense missiles and shells, Bronk said.

In turn, Ukraine has formed mobile air-defense teams equipped with a variety of short-range and portable weapons, including self-propelled antiaircraft guns such as the Soviet-era Shilka and the German-made Gepard, shoulder-fired missiles like the US-made Stinger, and even Soviet-designed DShK heavy machine guns paired with searchlights, Bronk said.

A Ukrainian soldier with a shoulder-fired antiaircraft missile in Donetsk in May 2022. Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

This approach has proved remarkably successful.

Story continues

"Even just people with DShKs are getting much better with those weapons because they've had a lot of practice," Bronk said. "As you learn how to lead targets, even crew-served, nonradar-led gunnery can be quite effective."

Ukraine has also mobilized the public for the anti-drone war.

"They've got some clever apps, so where ordinary people can essentially quickly report in sightings of UAVs, missiles, and aircraft into a sort of centralized data-gathering function," Bronk said.

Earlier in the war, Ukrainians used a repurposed government-services app to report Russian movements on the ground.

A similar system was used in World War II. During the Battle of Britain in 1940, civilian volunteers with the Royal Observer Corps reported sightings of German bombers to a centralized air-defense network. Once the bombers flew past coastal radars and reached inland areas where radar coverage was sparser, ground controllers could use Observer Corps reports to track the raids and direct Royal Air Force fighters to intercept them.

Ukrainian troops fire a S60 anti-aircraft gun at Russian positions near Bakhmut in March. ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images

Because Ukraine is so large  just a little smaller than Texas  Russian drones have to fly a long way to strike targets deep inside the country, Bronk said. While the Shahed-136 has an estimated range of about 1,550 miles, it has a top speed of only about 115 mph.

"They're quite slow," Bronk said. "If you can build up a picture of where they're going  which is not easy  there is often time to station mobile teams, to move them to the likely routes and shoot the drones down."

Naturally, Russia has changed its tactics. It has begun sending a few drones ahead of the main attack wave to attract the attention of Ukrainian antiaircraft sites "and see what lights up," Bronk said.

"If they manage to work out where the air defense is in a particular area, they'll then change the routing of the main strike wave to try and avoid it," he said. "So that's both an example of Russia learning and adapting but also a testament to how effective Ukrainian defense measures now are."

But Ukraine's mobile anti-drone teams are most effective against drones flying at lower altitudes on deep-penetration missions.

On the front lines, Russia can employ a variety of unmanned aerial vehicles, from small quadcopters to the Orlan-10, which flies at altitudes between roughly 5,000 feet and 16,000 feet and gathers real-time data to guide Russian artillery.

Ukrainian troops at a handover ceremony for 10 donated vehicles with machine guns for mobile antiaircraft groups in Kyiv in April. STR/NurPhoto via Getty Images

"The Orlan is one of the biggest problems because it can fly above the range of" portable air-defense missiles and antiaircraft guns, Bronk said, adding: "Essentially what that means is that in order to shoot them down, Ukraine has to use radar-guided surface-to-air missile systems like the Osa or Buk. That's one of the things that's drawing so much of their ammunition capacity."

Recently leaked US governments containing intelligence assessments from February said Ukraine was running out of ammunition for its antiaircraft weapons, especially the surface-to-air missiles needed to counter Russian jets.

While Western countries have scrambled to provide more of that ammunition, dwindling supplies mean Ukraine will have to use its air-defense resources more judiciously  and as they have done since the war began, the Ukrainians will continue to improvise.

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
Ukrnafta plans to allocate almost UAH 3 billion to the reconstruction and modernization of the gas station network

The document reads that the strategic plan envisages significant growth rates: doubling oil production from 1.5 million tons per year to 3.0 million tons per year, drilling 40 new wells, as well as an increase in gas stations from 450 in 2023 to 694 in 2024, and 1,200 in 2027.

Read also: Ukrnafta to fire several top managers, say media

The company also plans to increase capital investments from UAH 9.2 billion ($251.5 million) in 2023 to UAH 18.6 billion ($508.6 million) in 2024, and UAH 35 billion ($957.1 million) in 2025.

In addition, Ukrnafta plans to allocate almost UAH 3 billion ($82 million) for the reconstruction and modernization of its gas station network, and another UAH 3.2 billion ($87.5 million) for the purchase of goods and petroleum products, as well as logistics costs for the gas station network.

The company is also expected to increase its net income by 81%, from UAH 40.87 billion ($1.1 billion) to UAH 74.05 billion ($2 billion) in 2023, while its net profit will reach UAH 12 billion ($328.1 million). Payments to the state will amount to UAH 6.9 billion ($188.6 million), including UAH 344 million ($9.4 million) as dividends.

Read also: Recently nationalized Motor Sich and Ukrnafta to work for national defense, Ukrainian PM says

The financial plan was formed based on the assumption that 50% of the current gas production, or 278 million cubic meters, will be transferred to Naftogaz of Ukraine under the previously received advance payment under the 2020 contract. In this case, the deal will be fully completed by late November. A total of 18% out of the total production volume of one billion cubic meters will be directed to joint activities.

Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry in its conclusion to the draft financial plan pointed to several violations. In particular, the prohibition of commercial processing of raw materials of own production and the absence of some necessary indicators.

In one comment, the ministry recommends that Ukrnafta finalize the draft financial plan in terms of the justification of planned amounts of taxes, fees and other mandatory payments to the state budget.

Story continues

Read also: Russia destroys 35 oil depots in Ukraine since full-scale invasion

The ministry also stressed that they consider it necessary to conduct a thorough audit of Ukrnafta, which will allow the actual state of the companys affairs to be analyzed.

Earlier Ukrnafta announced plans to resume oil production at about 500 idle wells.

On Nov. 7, 2022, Ukrnafta, Ukrtatnafta and several other enterprises became state-owned.

Serhiy Koretskyi was appointed Ukrnaftas new CEO.

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GUANGZHOU, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The delivery of all trains for Indonesia's Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway has been completed with the loading of the last three sets of bullet trains at Qingdao Port in east China for shipment to Indonesia, according to the Chinese shipping operator.

The COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers Co., Ltd., headquartered in Guangzhou, said on Saturday that the high-speed electric multiple units (EMUs) include 11 trains and one train for comprehensive railway testing. The company developed a customized solution for the delivery of the trains, which were shipped in batches beginning in August 2022.

The high-speed railway line is a landmark project under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), connecting Indonesia's capital Jakarta and another major city Bandung. With a design speed of 350 km per hour, the railway will cut the journey between Jakarta and Bandung from over three hours to around 40 minutes. 
Racism, both institutional and personal, is a malingering disease that infects both the perpetrator and victim. To cure it, we must seek common ground, rooted in the basic human values of respect, civility and love. But, we cannot ignore our history.

Recently I was in Toronto filming an episode of Natasha Rothwells TV series, How to Die Alone. My driver from the airport was Joe, a 65-year-old white guy. As he began casually talking about his 150-acre chicken farm located a few kilometers outside the city, my body tensed up. I started to speculate about who he was, his politics, his prejudices. I assumed that had Joe been a Centre County family farmer picking me up from the State College airport we might both react to each other based on our historical preconceptions, which could very well confine us into strained, semi-adversarial silos. But Joe was Canadian. He continued, talking about his loving wife (they were coming up on 40 years together); his pending retirement as a driver (hence the chicken farm); escaping away from the hustle and bustle of rapidly urbanizing Toronto. My tension abated. I realized I was talking to someone very much like myself. Despite living on different sides of the border, we had more in common than not.

Our neighbors to the north do not have a protracted history that includes the enslavement of millions of Africans. As a nation they did not build a system of Jim Crow segregation that attempted to dehumanize ten percent of their people because of the color of the skin. The Canadians did not rip the flesh of their brethren with the lash nor tear their bodies and spirit with the lynching rope. Neither did most white Americans, but some of their ancestors did. After the Dred Scott decision, African Americans trying to escape enslavement could not rest in Pennsylvania but had to fly further to the Canadian border to be truly safe.

Inhuman laws and practices, the beatings, the exploitation and the lynchings have deeply scarred the body of our nation. As my grandmother used to say, if you want to heal a wound, massage it with a salve. We must learn to be each others balm in Gilead. Bishop Tutu taught us that we heal by accepting responsibility, telling each other the truth and seeking ways to forgive. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. taught us that we must undertake that journey with our hands and hearts open with love. Common sense tells us if we dont find a common road then we shall surely perish astray in the wilderness.

Around town

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2023. Facing the worst pandemic in U.S. history, forced into isolation, they persisted and succeeded. We are proud of you.

May is Asian, Pacific Islander, Native Hawaiian and Desi American Heritage Month. This years theme is advancing leaders through opportunity.

Michael Wade Smith, Penn States senior vice president and chief of staff, opened his home for an informal, end of the school year gathering. About 50 folks, mostly DEIB officials and staff, shared conversation, fellowship and tasty treats in a depressurized setting. President Neeli Bendapudi and her husband, Venkat, stopped by.

The next day Michael gave the keynote address at the African American graduation ceremony, with Ava Starks, the outgoing President of the Black Caucus and Stephanie Danette Preston, director of the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, presiding. Well over 100 graduates walked the celebratory walk, poured libations to honor the ancestors, and were gifted hand crafted kente cloth stoles imported from Ghana.

The State College Boroughs Racial Equity Advisory Commission (REAC) elected Gary Abdullah chair and Carmin Wong vice chair at its inaugural meeting. REAC was formed to help ensure that facilities and events are inclusive and welcoming for all people, especially under-represented populations.

Charles Dumas is a lifetime political activist, a professor emeritus from Penn State, and was the Democratic Partys nominee for U.S. Congress in 2012. He was the 2022 Lions Paw Awardee and Living Legend honoree of the National Black Theatre Festival. He lives with his partner and wife of 50 years in State College.
(Reuters) - Operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant are being suspended in case of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, the TASS state news agency said on Monday, citing the Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region.

Russia captured the plant in the early days of its invasion of Ukraine last year.

Ukraine is expected to start soon a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Russian-held territory, including potentially in the Zaporizhzhia region, and Russian authorities have begun evacuating people.

"We've seen the level (of water in the nearby Kakhovka Reservoir) rise to 17.08 (metres). We realise that this is manipulation. The nuclear reactors have been suspended," TASS quoted Yevgeny Balitsky as saying.

He did not elaborate.

The head of the U.N. nuclear power watchdog, Rafael Grossi, has previously said all six reactors at Europe's largest nuclear energy facility are already in "cold shutdown", meaning they are not producing electricity, but they are still loaded with nuclear material.

Grossi warned on Saturday that the situation around the plant had become "potentially dangerous" as Moscow-installed officials began evacuating people from nearby areas.

Some 3,000 people have been evacuated from villages close to the front line, TASS quoted Balitsky as saying on Monday, including around 1,000 minors.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which Grossi heads, has issued warnings previously about safety at the plant after shelling caused temporary power cuts.

In March the IAEA warned the plant was running on diesel generators to keep vital cooling systems going, after damage to power lines.

(Reporting by Reuters)
A bill that would increase the age to purchase semiautomatic rifles advanced out of a Texas House committee Monday afternoon.

The bill, which would raise the age requirement from 18 to 21, advanced out the Community Safety Select Committee on a 8-5 vote. It now goes to the full House for consideration.

The vote followed a protest Monday morning in the Capitol. Chants of shame on them, raise the age and do your job echoed through the building as protesters calling for gun safety laws gathered following Saturdays mass shooting in Allen.

Circling the first floor rotunda of the Austin building, people held signs with messages for Texas lawmakers.

Give us gun control not prayers! read one.

Its the guns said another, written on brown cardboard.

Chief among their asks was that a bill raising the age for buying semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 22 pass out of committee. Monday is the last day for House committees to vote out House bills.

This session Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a San Antonio Democrat, and Uvalde families have held regular press conferences pushing for gun safety measures, but proposals have stalled in the Texas Legislature as it enters its final weeks and key deadlines for bills to pass approach.

Gun safety bills proposed by Gutierrez include age restrictions on buying ammunition, a database for ammunition bought in bulk, high risk protective orders that would allow law enforcement to remove firearms from people who are a risk to themselves and others, required liability insurance for firearms and safe storage requirements for guns.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Abrams M1 tanks

These hardware alterations are behind the lengthy timeline of the tanks actually being delivered to Ukraine, which U.S. officials previously said would happen by the end of 2023.

Read also: U.S. congressional delegation, including Yermak critic Spartz, meet with Zelenskyy in Kyiv

USA Todays sources say this is a necessary precaution in case Russian troops seize one of the tanks and start reverse-engineering some of its more advanced components.

"It may or may not present opportunities for Russia to do testing on it, and to look for vulnerabilities," said Colin Smith, an expert on the Russian military at RAND Corporation.

Read also: Kadyrov spotted wearing Louis Vuitton military shirt  photo

The article notes its standard practice for Washington to provide foreign allies and partners with less sophisticated version of U.S.-made weapons and military equipment, ensuring that the Pentagon "reserves its highest-end capabilities for U.S. troops."

On January 25, the United States announced it will send 31 M1 Abrams main battle tanks to Ukraine.

Read also: Poland could host maintenance centers for Abrams tanks in Europe, official says

By the end of May, the vehicles are expected to arrive at a military base in Grafenwoehr, Germany, where Ukrainian crews will begin training to operate Abrams tanks.

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"Climate change continues to impact longstanding agricultural practices in every country and a strong global commitment is necessary to face the challenges of climate change head-on," said US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack

Funding for a global initiative aimed at creating more environmentally friendly and climate-resilient farming has grown to $13 billion, co-leaders the United States and the United Arab Emirates said Monday.

That money means the Agriculture Innovation Mission (AIM) for Climate, launched in 2021, now exceeds its $10 billion target for the COP28 climate talks, to be hosted by the UAE in November and December.

"Climate change continues to impact longstanding agricultural practices in every country and a strong global commitment is necessary to face the challenges of climate change head-on," US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said in a statement.

Vilsack and his Emirati counterpart Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, the UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, are co-hosting an AIM for Climate Summit in Washington this week.

"I think the beauty of this is that of the $13 billion, $10 billion comes from government and three billion is coming from the private sector," said Almheiri.

Between a quarter and a third of global greenhouse emissions come from food systems, from factors like deforestation to make way for agricultural land, methane emissions from livestock, the energy costs associated with supply chains and energy used by consumers to store and prepare food.

At the same time, the changing climate is threatening food security across the world, as global warming increases the frequency of punishing heat waves, droughts and extreme weather events.

Projects underway include developing newer, greener fertilizers that use less fossil fuels to create, and returning to so-called "regenerative agriculture" practices that restore soil biodiversity, thus improving both yield and carbon sequestration while reducing the need for fertilization.

Artificial intelligence-enhanced tools meanwhile are being developed to take data from sources including satellites and ground sensors to then accurately estimate how carbon-rich any given plot of land is, which could help farmers boost soil health or enable the creation of a viable carbon offset market.

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Also on the group's agenda are efforts to adopt more efficient farming techniques and to switch to growing crops that require less water in some climate-impacted areas.

"Black farmers, Indigenous farmers, low-income farmers, they need access to this innovation as well," former US vice president Al Gore and climate activist told the summit's opening meeting.

US climate envoy John Kerry, as well as ministers from Britain, the European Commission, Australia, Kenya, Mexico and Panama are all set to address the conference.

ia/caw
The families of the Uvalde school shooting victims erupted in cheers after two Republican state legislators voted to advance a bill that would raise the minimum age limit to buy semiautomatic rifles in Texas.

Two Republicans joined Democrats in the Texas House Select Committee on Community Safety to approve the raise the age gun bill in an 8-5 vote and advance it to the House floor. After they voted, families of the victims of the 2022 Uvalde school shooting could be heard cheering and sobbing in videos reported by KXAN News.

An 18-year-old opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, last May, killing 19 children and two teachers. The attack was the third-deadliest school shooting in U.S. history.

The families of the victims in the mass shooting have banded together to demand stricter gun laws, including advocating for bill HB 2744, which would raise the age to purchase semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21.

The families of the Uvalde victims held a press conference ahead of the committees meeting on Monday, calling on the chairman to hold a committee vote on the measure. Monday is the deadline for scheduling votes in the House chamber and the last day for committees to send the bill to the floor.

Because at the end of the day, Im just a mom who wants my daughter back. And a mom who doesnt want another mom to know my pain, Kimberly Mata-Rubio said at the press conference. Mata-Rubios daughter, Lexi, was killed in the shooting.

Volunteers from Moms Demand Action, an advocacy group that calls for stricter gun laws, were also in attendance at the committee hearing Monday to urge the members to pass the bill.

Todays vote is a crucial step in the right direction, but we wont give up. We will keep holding lawmakers in Texas  and across the nation  accountable until life-saving measures like HB 2744 become law, the group said in a statement on Twitter.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
TASHKENT (Reuters) -Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said on Monday he was calling a snap presidential election on July 9 to give himself a new mandate to help deal with "sharp and complex processes" going on in the world.

Uzbek voters approved a package of constitutional amendments in a referendum on April 30 that allows Mirziyoyev to run for two more terms, and extends each term to seven years from five.

There are no big opposition figures in the Central Asian country of 35 million who could compete with Mirziyoyev, praised both at home and abroad for liberalising the former Soviet republic and opening up its economy to foreign trade and investment.

Mirziyoyev, 65, said that he felt he needed a fresh mandate to carry out further reforms, despite having served less than two years of his current term.

"In the current situation where sharp and complex processes are prevailing in the world and in our region, finding the right and effective path of development and its implementation is becoming the most acute and urgent issue," he said.

Mirziyoyev's executive order published afterwards said the vote would be held on July 9.

(Reporting by Mukhammadsharif Mamatkulov; Editing by Gareth Jones and Nick Macfie)
Chris Pratt arrives at the world premiere of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at the Dolby Ballroom in Los Angeles. Once again, Chris Pratt defended his Christian beliefs  and expressed indifference for his critics. | Jordan Strauss, Invision/Associated Press

Once again, Chris Pratt defended his Christian beliefs  and expressed indifference for his critics.

Pratt has a history of being outspoken about his faith, leading to several calls for the Parks and Recreation actor to get canceled. During an interview with Page Six last week, Pratt acknowledged that he has faced criticism for his beliefs.

I sure do but thats nothing new, thats nothing new, you know? Pratt told Page Six of the backlash he has received over his religious views.

If I was of this world, they would love me just like that but as it is, Ive chosen out of this world. Thats John 15:18 through 20, Pratt continued.

Thats the way it is, nothing new, 2,000 years ago they hated him, too, he added, referencing Jesus Christ.

Pratt converted to Christianity as a teenager

Pratt was introduced to Christianity as a rebellious teenager by a stranger.

In Maui, about four weeks before I was discovered to go to California, I was hanging with my buddy. I wasnt quite old enough to drink, so we got somebody to go in and buy us some alcohol. This guy came by and was like, What are you doing tonight? Pratt told Esquire in 2012.

He was like, I stopped because Jesus told me to stop and talk to you. He said to tell you youre destined for great things. My friends came out, and I was like, Hey, Im gonna go with this guy. I gave my soul to Jesus within, like, two days, Pratt continued.

Roughly a month after his conversion, Pratts acting career took off, he explained to Esquire. But Pratt never expected to become the face of religion in Hollywood. He downplayed his presumed commitment to religion in a 2022 interview with Mens Health.

I didnt know that I would kind of become the face of religion when really Im not a religious person, Pratt told Mens Health.

I think theres a distinction between being religious  adhering to the customs created by man, oftentimes appropriating the awe reserved for who I believe is a very real God  and using it to control people, to take money from people, to abuse children, to steal land, to justify hatred.

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Despite considering himself not a religious person, Pratt has continually defend his religious beliefs amid threats of getting canceled.

Related

Fans have tried to cancel Pratt on several occasions

In 2019, Marvel fans called upon the franchise to replace Pratt as Star Lord in the Guardians of the Galaxy movies over claims that he attended an infamously anti-LGBTQ church.

Pratt took to Instagram to shut down the rumors. It has recently been suggested that I belong to a church which hates a certain group of people and is infamously anti-LGBTQ. Nothing could be further from the truth. I go to a church that opens their doors to absolutely everyone, the actor wrote on Instagram, per NBC News.

Pratt found himself in hot water again in 2020, when he opted out of participating in a virtual hangout with several Avengers stars  fans could join the hangout if they contributed to Joe Bidens presidential campaign, as reported by the Deseret News.

The Guardians of the Galaxy actor has never spoken publicly about who he supports politically but Marvel fans began accusing him of supporting Donald Trump  an action they believed made him the worst Chris (in Hollywood) and cancelable.

Pratt remained tight-lipped through the discourse and shared how he handles criticism and threats of getting canceled with Page Six.

Oh, just how you deal with anything, Pratt said of facing criticism. Like a rhino, stick your head down, you keep driving forward, you have thick skin and if anyone gets in your way, you stick the horn right up their a!

When it comes to rejection, I was trained in the crucible of door-to-door sales some 25 years ago, he continued. So, you cant turn me away, theres no stopping us.

He explained that going door to door is a very hard job and its not dissimilar to acting or at least auditioning. You gotta collect nine nos to get one yes.

Related

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Most of them had crossed the Andes mountains in Colombia and crossed the jungles in Panama on foot to defy all sorts of dangers in Central America and Mexico hoping to reach the American dream.

But what they found once they crossed the U.S. border translated into sheer terror, as they waited for a bus on a sidewalk of a Brownsville Texas street Sunday morning, when an SUV hurtling down the street suddenly veered towards the group, most of them Venezuelan immigrants, and mowed them down. At least eight people were killed and nine others left seriously injured in the incident. Authorities are investigating whether it was intentional, but one bystander later said the driver yelled obscenities towards the immigrants before he attempted to flee.

The news, which for many came through heartbreaking videos posted on social media, rasied alarms among leaders of the Venezuelan community in the United States concerned over the risks faced by thousands of Venezuelans who, after fleeing the Nicolas Maduro regime, find themselves vulnerable in the United States.

This is a terrible tragedy, said Maria Antonietta Diaz, president of the Venezuelan American Alliance, a South Florida-based organization that advocates for the interests of Venezuelan immigrants. It is very painful that after a whole journey like the one our brothers make, after having arrived in the United States, something like this happens.

Although authorities have not yet determined whether the incident was deliberate, some Venezuelans interpreted the events as the byproduct of the growing anti-immigrant sentiment in the U.S.

What is happening with immigrants in the United States is very alarming and dangerous, specifically with Venezuelans who are fleeing from the crisis in Venezuela, said Jose Antonio Colina, who lives in Miami and is president of the organization of Politically Persecuted Venezuelans Abroad.

This is what happens when local governments do not take into account the consequences of their statements and actions. Clearly, the governor of Texas has criminalized immigration and it is feasible to think that what is happening is stimulated by his anti-immigrant position, Colina said.

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While the causes of the incident are still under investigation, comments made by witnesses to the local media suggest it was more than an accident.

Witnesses told the Brownsville Herald that they saw the Range Rover involved traveling at high speed and suddenly change direction towards the immigrants sitting down on the sidewalk in front of the Obispo Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center for the homeless, which had been converted into a migrant shelter because of the hundreds of immigrants passing through the area.

Luis Herrera was one of those waiting that morning for a bus to take him downtown to board another bus out of the city. Many of those with him had walked hundreds of miles for many weeks and were feeling lucky they were able to cross the border from Mexico, when they suddenly saw the SUV heading towards them.

The driver yelled obscenities towards the group as his vehicle struck the Venezuelans and later attempted to flee, saying that immigrants were invading the United States, Herrera told the Brownsville Herald.

Other witnesses told local reporters that the driver showed signs of being intoxicated.

Brownsville Mayor Trey Mendezs office tweeted that there was no indication the crash was intentional, but police are still investigating.

The victims had left the shelter, which was already full, the local media reported. The center normally gets more than 300 immigrants per day, but has seen the number increase in recent days due to fears related to the expiration on Thursday of Title 42 That federal public-health regulation, which authorizes the return of immigrants to Mexico, will be replaced by rules that many see as more strict because they involve accelerated expulsions a ban on returning to the country for five years and possible prosecution of those that enter illegally into the United States.

For the leadership of the Venezuelan opposition to Maduro, the events are just the latest evidence of the high cost in human lives caused by the socialist regime in Caracas, which they blame for having ruined the countrys economy and for having forced more than eight million Venezuelans to leave the country, seeking refuge in the United States and other countries in the hemisphere.

What happened in Texas... is very painful. We know the vulnerability of our people who are fleeing, expelled by the Maduro dictatorship, said opposition leader Juan Guaido on his Twitter account.

I send my condolences to the relatives of the victims, I demand that the facts be clarified and those responsible be punished, said Guaido, who is currently in the United States and says he is waiting for the necessary guarantees to be able to return to Venezuela.
PM Margaret Thatcher on the day of her resignation in 1990 after 11 years in power (PA) (PA Archive)

Vey few tears would have been shed in parts of the UK if the 1984 IRA Brighton bombing killed Margaret Thatcher, former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams has claimed.

The 1984 IRA bombing of the Grand Hotel in Brighton during the Conservative Party conference killed five and injured 31.

MP Sir Anthony Berry was killed, along with party chairman Eric Taylor, and the wives of three Tory MPs - Lady Jeanne Shattock, Lady Muriel Maclean and Roberta Wakeham. However, Mrs Thatcher was uninjured in the bombing.

Gerry Adams stepped down as leader of Sinn Fein in 2018 after more than three decades in the role (PA Wire)

On an episode of The Rest Is Politics podcast, presented by Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart, Mr Adams said: There would be very few tears shed for Margaret Thatcher in Republican Ireland, or in many villages in Wales and working-class Scotland and England itself.

Asked if he would have been happy if Mrs Thatcher died, Mr Adams replied: Happiness or happy is not a term I would use. The fact is, there was a war.

Margaret Thatcher was notorious, not just for her presiding over the deaths of the hunger strikers, which could have been easily resolved, by very simple improvements in the prison regime.

But also because she was upfront, and she was being the Iron Lady, and she was masquerading as being somebody who was indomitable, and so on.

But, its done, its over, its gone. All of that was in the past.

The Grand Hotel in Brighton after a bombing by the IRA, during the Conservative Party Conference, 12 October 1984 (Getty Images)

Former soldier and Tory MP Rory Stewart challenged Mr Adams about his remarks, to which the Northern Irish politician replied: I never went to war.

You came to me, you know. You came in, in khaki and tanks. I think including the deaths of British soldiers and RUC officers, all those deaths are to be regretted.

Its a regrettable part of our history. And, clearly for civilians, for them to be killed, it doesnt matter if it was an accident or not. Thats even more regrettable, and thankfully were now out of all that, and we need to learn the lessons of it.

The damaged Brighton hotel where Mrs Thatcher and the cabinet were staying after it was hit by the 1984 IRA bomb (PA)

Following the announcement of the death of Mrs Thatcher in 2013, Mr Adams claimed the former prime minister did great hurt to the Irish and British people during her time as British prime minister.

Working-class communities were devastated in Britain because of her policies, he said.

Gerry Adams stepped down as leader of Sinn Fein in 2018 after more than three decades in the role.
U.S. to blame for all Israeli "terror" acts against Iran's nuclear sites, experts: Iranian official

Xinhua) 11:00, May 08, 2023

TEHRAN, May 6 (Xinhua) -- A top Iranian security official said the United States is to blame for Israel's "terrorist" acts against Iran's nuclear facilities and experts.

Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani made the remark in a post on his Twitter page Friday night, reacting to recent comments by U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, in which he said Washington will recognize Israel's right for "freedom of action if Iran tries to obtain nuclear weapons."

Addressing a conference at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy on Thursday, Sullivan said, "We have made clear to Iran that it can never be permitted to obtain a nuclear weapon. As President Biden has repeatedly reaffirmed, he will take the actions that are necessary to stand by this statement, including recognizing Israel's freedom of action."

Sullivan added the U.S. will keep "engaging Iran diplomatically regarding its nuclear program," describing as a "tragic mistake" the decision to quit the 2015 nuclear deal "with nothing at all to replace it."

Shamkhani said this means the U.S. "has been and will be responsible" for all "terrorist acts" by Israel against Iran's nuclear facilities and personnel and should accept possible consequences.

Iran accuses Israel of targeting the country's nuclear sites and facilities and assassinating seven Iranian nuclear scientists, including high-ranking nuclear physicist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, who died from severe injuries on Nov. 27, 2020, following an armed attack on his car in the northeast of Iran's capital Tehran.

Iran reiterated its nuclear program is entirely "peaceful" and that producing nuclear weapons "has no place in its defense doctrine."

Iran signed the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear program in return for the removal of the sanctions on the country.

The U.S., however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed its unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to reduce some of its nuclear commitments under the deal.

The talks on the JCPOA's revival began in April 2021 in Vienna. No breakthrough has been achieved after the latest round of talks in August 2022.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- On Monday, the 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations opened in Beijing. As an important platform that gathers associations of overseas Chinese from around the world, the conference this year is attended by about 500 heads of such associations from over 130 countries and regions.

As the Chinese leadership once noted, for Chinese people, both at home and abroad, the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is a shared dream. The Chinese government has always attached great importance to closely uniting overseas Chinese, returned overseas Chinese and their relatives, and encouraging them to play an active part in national rejuvenation.

To ensure that work related to overseas Chinese is sound and effective, Chinese authorities have held meetings to enhance overall planning, and also reformed relevant institutions and mechanisms. These measures have enhanced the coordination of departments, enabling work related to overseas Chinese to progress in a systematic and holistic manner.

With an effective work mechanism established, the Chinese government was able to introduce more tangible measures to attract overseas Chinese to participate in China's social and economic development.

For instance, in 2014, the State Council approved the establishment of the 480-square-km China (Shantou) Pilot Zone for Economic and Cultural Cooperation with Overseas Chinese in Shantou, Guangdong Province. After years of development, the zone has become a significant booster of local economic development. In 2020 and 2021, the annual GDP growth rate of the zone stayed above 20 percent.

Over the past decade, central and regional authorities have been constantly upgrading measures to serve overseas Chinese and safeguard their legitimate rights and benefits.

On April 27, two vessels of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy arrived in the Saudi Arabian port of Jeddah on an emergency evacuation mission. That day, 668 Chinese citizens were evacuated from Sudan, where weeks-long conflicts posed severe safety threats.

"Above all, we are so grateful to our motherland. The motherland is always our strong backing," said Chen Lihui, an evacuee.

Ensuring safety and well-being is only one aspect of China's endeavor to serve overseas Chinese. Over the years, a number of policies have been formulated to streamline the application of visas and long-term or permanent residence for Chinese of foreign nationalities.

In addition, overseas Chinese and their family members can now benefit from a plethora of policies and regulations that ensure their rights to receive education, operate businesses, and receive timely medical attention when in need. 
A military veteran who told an undercover FBI agent about his admiration for Adolf Hitler and discussed a plan to wipe out the nation's Jewish population was sentenced on Monday to four years in prison for storming the U.S. Capitol.

U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden ordered Virginia resident Hatchet Speed to serve the four-year sentence after he completes a separate three-year prison term for a conviction on firearms offenses, court records show.

The FBI recorded Speeds conversations with the undercover agent more than a year after the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. The agent posed as a like-minded individual while meeting with Speed at least three times in 2022.

Speed, 41, was deeply worried" about Democrat Joe Biden's presidency and believed false claims that the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from Donald Trump, the Republican incumbent, prosecutors wrote in a court filing. He told the undercover agent that he believes Jewish people control Biden.

Speed expressed his admiration for Hitler during the recorded conversation, calling him one of the best people thats ever been on this earth. He also outlined a plan to enlist Christians to wipe out the countrys entire Jewish population, prosecutors said in a court filing.

It is not clear why this military veteran with a (security) clearance became enamored with Hitler, began to embrace street fighting, and call for the execution of the countrys entire Jewish population, prosecutors wrote. What is clear, though, is that this defendant committed a serious offense and continues to threaten the safety of the community, posing a serious danger.

McFadden heard trial testimony without a jury before convicting Speed of all five charges in his indictment, including a felony count of obstructing the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress for certifying the Electoral College vote. The judge also convicted Speed of four misdemeanors.

Speed' four-year sentence matched the prison term recommended by prosecutors. McFadden also sentenced Speed to three years of supervised release after his prison term and ordered him to pay a $10,000 fine plus $2,000 in restitution.

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The undercover agent testified under a pseudonym at a separate trial for Speed in Virginia on gun charges. After a retrial in January, a jury convicted Speed of three counts of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm silencer. In April, U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff sentenced Speed to three years in prison.

Speed was a member of the Proud Boys, joining the far-right extremist group in 2020, according to prosecutors. He also was a petty officer first class in the U.S. Naval Reserves and was assigned to the Naval Warfare Space Field Activity at the National Reconnaissance Office, the FBI said.

The National Reconnaissance Office operates U.S. spy satellites used by the Pentagon and intelligence agencies. The agency said Speed was not part of the reserve unit at the time of the Capitol riot.

On Jan. 6, Speed drove to Washington, D.C, from his home in Vienna, Virginia. After attending the Stop the Steal rally, where Trump addressed a crowd of supporters, Speed joined other Proud Boys in marching to the Capitol.

Around 3 p.m., Speed entered the building through a door to the Senate wing of the Capitol after other rioters breached it. He remained inside the Capitol for roughly 40 minutes.

Speed was arrested in June 2022 on riot-related misdemeanor charges. A grand jury later indicted him on the felony obstruction charge.

Speeds conduct on Jan. 6 was one step on a disturbing path toward racially motivated criminal conduct  that ultimately featured plans for the kidnapping and mass murder of civilians," prosecutors wrote.
Years of focus on finding post-military jobs for service members have helped push the veterans unemployment rate to historic lows. Now, the biggest obstacle to veterans finding jobs may be Congress itself, if the debt-ceiling budget fight leads to a gut-punch for the U.S. economy.

Officials from the Bureau of Labor Statistics announced on Friday that the veterans unemployment rate fell to 2.1% in April, the lowest mark since the start of 2000, when the agency began tracking monthly unemployment for the group.

Four of the five lowest monthly veterans unemployment rates recorded in the last 23 years have come since early 2022. The veterans jobless rate has been at least 1% lower than the national rate each of the last three months. The countrys unemployment estimate for April was 3.4%.

Its hard to see this as anything but great news, said Jeff Wenger, senior economist for the RAND Corporation. Unemployment is falling for all groups in America, but its falling even faster for veterans. The country really focused on this for years, and now were winning.

That focus has included years of improvements to the militarys transition programs, boosted funding for Veterans Affairs job assistance efforts, and a concentrated drumbeat from congressional lawmakers about the value of hiring veterans.

Three years ago, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in America, more than 1 million veterans in the United States were collecting unemployment benefits. Last month, that number was about 184,000 individuals.

How companies seek out veterans for employment

In a lot of ways, weve seen a full reversal of the broken veteran narrative, Wenger said. Today, instead of seeing veterans as not employable, were seeing companies really seek them out.

But in a twist, Congress current fight over the countrys debt ceiling may threaten that positive veterans employment news. Last month, analysts from the Brookings Institution warned that even with a short-term default the economy is likely to suffer sustained  and completely avoidable  damage.

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A politically-based recession brought on by the effects of a national credit default could hit industries with high populations of veteran employees.

When weve seen the technology sector layoffs in recent months, thats an industry that doesnt really have as many veterans, so the effects have been minimal, said Rosalinda Maury, director of applied research at the Institute of Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University.

But industries like leisure, hospitality and retail, those are ones that could really hurt veterans if there are economic issues during the summer.

Support services for homeless veterans set to expire

Cutbacks to transportation jobs brought on by slower corporate growth or cutbacks would also significantly impact veterans. About one in every 13 working veterans in America today has a job in that industry. For non-veterans, its about one in every 20 workers.

However, Maury said the biggest potential impact would be if a debt ceiling default caused issues with federal and state government hiring, or forced furloughs of those workers. Nearly one-fourth of all veterans have jobs in federal or local government posts, well above the 13% rate for non-veterans.

Wenger said if such a situation arises, the government jobs issues are likely to be only a temporary problem, unless the political showdown drags on for months. In that case, veterans unemployment is likely to increase as national unemployment rates also rise.

Its hard to be too doom and gloom right now on veterans employment, he said. But we have to see what happens next.

Congressional leaders are scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden on Tuesday to discuss solutions for the debt ceiling impasse. The May unemployment numbers for veterans are due out on June 2, around the same date that Federal Reserve officials have warned the country may hit the debt limit and start seeing economic side effects.
The Lexington school nurse who was killed when she was hit by a vehicle Saturday worked hard to care for others, including on the day of her death, according to those who knew her.

Lynette Laine, 60, was hit by a car at the intersection of Sandersville Road and Atoma Drive late Saturday evening, according to Lexington police. She was sent to University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital, where she later died from her injuries, according to the Fayette County Coroners Office.

Laine was out for a walk at the time of the collision, according to her husband, David Laine. He said she only had time for exercise late in the evening because of how much time she spent caring for others.

Lynette Laine had been a nurse for about 40 years. As she got older and the nursing profession remained demanding, she took a step back and became a school nurse for the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.

Kevin Hall, a spokesperson for the health department, said she had been in that role since November 2021. She worked for Carter G. Woodson Preparatory Academy and Rise STEM Academy for Girls. Yolanda Loveless, the school health manager for the health department, said Laine loved working with kids and made a great school nurse.

She was honestly a loving nurse who loved the kids and she would always tell me how much she loved school nursing, Loveless said.

David Laine said kids would often come up with excuses to visit the nurses office just so they could visit her.

Shes the only person I know who could treat a bruised arm, a leg or headache with a piece of peppermint, David Laine said.

When Lynette Laine wasnt taking care of kids, she would spend her free time caring for her mother along with her sisters. She had been doing so for five to six years, including the evening she was killed.

David Laine visited the schools and the health department Monday to share the news of his wifes death. He said the experience was helpful for him as he processes the grief from his wifes death.

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We had an emotional time this morning, he said. The administrators and staff at those schools were grieving. They obviously loved her. We were impressed with the outpouring of tears and the hugs and how they loved the lady.

Hall said grief counselors have been made available at the schools and health department for those coping with the tragedy.

The driver who struck Lynette Laine fled the scene after the collision, according to police. The accident was still under investigation by police Monday afternoon.
Brownsville, Texas vigil

At approximately 8:30 a.m. yesterday (May 7), a driver crashed his vehicle into a group of people who were standing at a bus stop in Brownsville, Texas. Ten individuals were injured and eight were killed.

According to ABC News, Texas officials said the deadly incident happened near the Ozanam Center. Brownsville police spokesman Martin Sandoval said the suspect was driving a gray Range Rover when he sped through migrants under the care of Border Patrol. Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda added that all of the victims were men, and revealed some came from Venezuela. The driver, identified as 34-year-old George Alvarez, is now facing manslaughter charges.

Sauceda spoke at a news conference this morning (May 8) and explained that the driver lost control of the Range Rover, and the vehicle then flipped on its side. Alvarez reportedly exited the SUV and tried to flee the deadly Texas crime scene but was restrained by witnesses. Daniel Gonzales survived the crash and spoke with Brownsville news station Valley Central about the ordeal. We all fight for a dream. We passed a jungle, crossed eight countries, lived through cold, hunger, and thirst, and we still cross and say weve reached the American dream. Now look at where the American dream ended for us, Gonzales shared.

The Brownsville police chief noted that the suspect with an extensive rap sheet is in custody and toxicology results are pending. The FBI has also joined the investigation to determine if the Texas incident was committed on purpose and if there was any element of a domestic violent extremist motive. Secretary Mayorkas has been briefed on the tragic situation in Brownsville and has reached out to local leaders to offer condolences and the full support of the Department, a statement from the Department of Homeland Security read.

A vigil was held this morning at 10 a.m. local time at 655 N. Minnesota Ave.

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HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam is preparing to make it mandatory for social media users of both local and foreign platforms to verify their identity in a bid to rein in online scams, state media reported on Monday.

The measure, part of the Telecommunications Law Amendment to be issued by the end of this year, will enable law enforcement agencies to track down offenders using social media to break the law, state-run Voice of Vietnam (VOV) newspaper reported.

"There are times the authorities can identify social media account holders that violate the laws but cannot track them down because those criminals use cross-border applications," VOV cited information deputy minister Nguyen Thanh Lam as saying.

"Unverified accounts, no matter on local or foreign platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, will be dealt with."

According to the report, both individual and organisational users would be subject to the measure. However not all providers currently offer identity verification in Vietnam.

The regulation will need the approval of the country's lawmakers. Details have not been revealed yet.

Vietnam in recent years has issued several regulations together with a cybersecurity law that target foreign social media platforms in a bid to battle disinformation in news and force foreign tech firms to establish representative offices in Vietnam and store data in the country.

(Reporting by Phuong Nguyen, Editing by William Maclean)
Former South Bend resident Rebecca Henry will be a juror for the 50th annual Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition at the University of Notre Dame from May 12 to 14, 2023.

Mothers Day weekend will be busy for Rebecca Henry.

Coming back to South Bend is always great for her. There is family time and seeing familiar sites. She grew up here, graduated from Adams High School and went on to Indiana University Bloomington. She has a bachelors degree in music education and a masters in performance in viola.

She says she is a Hoosier and a fan of her hometown.

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In addition to seeing Mom and Dad, this Mothers Day weekend visit will include amazing music. Rebecca is one of the jurors for the junior string division for the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition at the University of Notre Dame.

Junior division members are 18 and younger.

Founded in 1973, the Fischoff has grown to become the largest chamber music competition in the world and one of the most prestigious classical music prizes. Joseph E. Fischoff and members of the South Bend Chamber Music Society presented the idea of a competition to encourage young musicians. Six ensembles participated that first year.

This is the 50th anniversary of the competition. The weekend starts off with the Lift Every Voice Concert at 7 p.m. Thursday at IU South Bend's Northside Hall. The concert profiles Black, Hispanic and women composers.

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The competition will be Friday through Sunday at Notre Dames DeBartolo Performing Arts Center and ONeill Hall of Music (on the south end of Notre Dame Stadium). Saturday and Sunday performances will be live streamed at www.fischoff.org.

A career in music

Back to Rebecca. She teaches string pedagogy at the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore, training and mentoring young teachers, and as chair, she developed the preparatory string department into a noted pre-college string program. She has been at the Peabody for 35 years.

She has a considerable background in teaching and mentoring. In 2007, she received funding from the Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation to develop Peabodys pre-conservatory violin program, which she directs. This group of eight serious violinists rehearse, perform, develop, explore and travel together.

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In the summers, Rebecca co-directs the violin practice lab in Rockville, Md., and is on the faculty at the IU Teachers Retreat for professional violinists and violists and at the Heifetz International Music Festival, Staunton, Va.

Keeping busy, she also performs with the Washington Chamber Orchestra and with faculty chamber ensembles. She has also performed in summer chamber music festivals at Indiana University and in California, New Hampshire, Mexico and Switzerland. Teaching and performing are both equally important to her. I need to do both, as they feed each other and the balance shifts over time, she said.

This is her first time as a juror at the Fischoff. However, she performed with a string quartet in the first few years of the competition. She also chaperoned performers from the Peabody who were in the competition.

Rebecca got her start in music from her parents, Eugene and Alice Henry. Both love music. We often went to the symphony, museums and plays. They loved opera, and we listened on Sunday afternoons. They both played the piano. My father played trombone and grew up with swing band music. He still plays.

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The six Henry children were encouraged to learn how to play something. We each took two years of piano, and then we could choose another instrument. Im the only one to do this professionally.

Rebecca said there were many opportunities to study and perform from the high school orchestra, the IUSB Philharmonic, the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and the South Bend Youth Symphony. She was encouraged by Rocco Germano, who was one of the founders and the conductor of the youth symphony.

Rebecca also took piano lessons from Dorothy Feiwell, and violin and viola lessons from Dolores Wilson and Karl Greenshield. There are many opportunities here to perform, she said.

As for the upcoming Fischoff competition, it is exciting to hear the groups, she said. They are playing at an incredibly high level. We are looking for a special chemistry. We listen critically. The artists will be in the zone together.

More on Fischoff at 50

Scott Campbell is a teacher at heart. A university setting fits him well. He is the executive director of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Association. He began in the role in October just as the association was entering into its 50th season.

He replaced Kara Kane, who became the education director.

Scott said when the position opened, the Fischoff board approached him. There was interest on both sides. After a dozen or so interviews, it was offered. It was a good fit for him. Being back on a campus is great, the campus culture. And it is Notre Dame.

Scott is originally from Oregon. Most recently, he worked at Conn-Selmer, where he served as director of woodwind product management.

Before that, he had been a Conn-Selmer artist as a saxophone player in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. He also has been an adjunct professor of music with Southwestern Adventist University (Keene, Texas) and Mountain View College (Dallas) and maintained a private saxophone studio with more than 80 students in Texas.

As a teacher, Scott said, he knows the importance of the education aspect of the Fischoff year around. The competition is the crown jewel, but the educational initiatives continue throughout the year.

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More than 5,000 students from area schools will meet Fischoff musicians, see performances and take field trips. For example, on Friday ,15 ensembles will visit 14 schools in St. Joseph, Elkhart and Berrien counties. About 1,000 children will have a musical experience in 24 hours, according to Kara.

Senior division ensembles will perform during the competition weekend around the town in small spaces. Some are surprise events.

During the school year, the Fischoff groups will visit elementary and high schools. The younger children will experience the link between music and reading. Musicians explain their instruments and the road to becoming a musician. High schools and middle schools will have workshops and side-by-side performance opportunities. For the summer, a music camp opens more doors. Concerts in the fall keep the door open.

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Scott said the community collaborations, such as with 100 Black Men of Greater South Bend, the YWCA and St. Margarets House, are expanding the outreach. Music feeds the spirit and that needs to be shared.

Kara said the education aspect has long been a pillar of the Fischoff competition. We are standing on the shoulders of Ann Devine (former director) who started laying the groundwork in 1995 for programming.

A beautiful musical weekend is on the horizon.

You can reach Kathy at kfborlik@yahoo.com

The 50th annual Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition

Thursday

 "Lift Every Voice Concert": 7 p.m. at IU South Bend's Northside Hall

Friday

 Junior Division Quarter Finals: 8:20 a.m. to 8:20 p.m. in Notre Dame's DeBartolo Performing Arts Center

 Senior Division Quarter Finals: 9 a.m.to 8 p.m. in Notre Dame's ONeill Hall of Music

Saturday

 Senior Division Semifinals: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

 Junior Division Semifinals: 1:40 to 7:25 p.m.

Sunday

 Finals: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 Awards: 3:30 to 4 p.m.

 Gold Medal Concert: 4 to 5:30 p.m.

All Saturday and Sunday events held in DeBartolo

All events are free and open to the public.

Saturday and Sunday performances will be livestreamed at www.fischoff.org.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: South Bend's Fischoff chamber music competition turns 50
(AFP via Getty Images)

Democrats received a gut punch on Sunday when a new poll from The Washington Post and ABC News showed that President Joe Biden hit an all-time low and that he actually trailed former president Donald Trump.

The poll showed that 56 per cent of adults disapprove the job Mr Biden is doing while an abysmal 36 per cent of adults approve of how Mr Biden is doing. Moreover, he only has the support of 26 per cent of Americans younger than the age of 30 and 42 per cent of nonwhite adults, a crucial demographic in the Democratic coalition.

Even more alarmingly for Democrats, 54 per cent of adults say Mr Trump did a better job handling the economy than Mr Biden did. Barring international crises on the level of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, voter sentiment about the economy typically tips the scales one way in a presidential election. Similarly, 63 per cent of adults said that Mr Biden lacks the mental sharpness to be president.

The numbers should concern Democrats because Mr Biden largely won his race in 2020 on the back of his ability to beat Mr Trump. Democratic primary voters eschewed other candidates, including some younger candidates or candidates that reflect the diversity of the party, in favor of someone they believed could evict Mr Trump from the White House.

Mr Trumps continued presence in national politics might rationalise Mr Bidens decision to remain the de facto leader of the Democratic Party. But that doesnt enthuse Democratic voters, as 58 per cent of Democratic-leaning adults want the party to nominate someone other than Mr Biden.

Additionally, when asked who they would prefer, 44 per cent of those polled said they would cast their ballot for Mr Trump instead of Mr Biden. However, only 38 per cent said they would vote for Mr Biden. Similarly, 42 per cent said they would cast their ballot for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis while 37 per cent said they would back Mr Biden. Notably, Mr DeSantis has not even announced whether hes running.

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Mr Trump even beats Mr Biden 45 to 39 per cent, respectively, while Mr Biden leads with college-educated white women. Mr Trump and Mr Biden are about split when it comes to white men with college degrees.

But Mr Trump carries unique vulnerabilities as well. 56 per cent of adults say he should face criminal charges for his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, and 54 per cent say he should face charges for his role in the January 6 riot.

That might be why Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is sweating about the Senate. In an interview with friend of the newsletter Manu Raju at CNN, Mr McConnell warned that Republicans could very easily blow their opportunity to take back the Senate. As it stands now, Democrats hold only 51 seats, meaning the GOP needs to flip only two seats to reclaim the majority.

Mr Bidens low approval numbers, and the fact three Democrats hold Senate seats in states Mr Trump won twice, should make Mr McConnell feel confident. But Washingtons most calculating political operator is not resting easy, likely still smarting from the fact that he failed to flip a single seat last cycle.

In other places where we did not get involved in the primaries it was because we were convinced we could not prevail, and would spend a lot of money that we would need later, he told CNN, a nod to the fact that Republicans didnt get involved in last years primaries, which allowed for Mr Trump to endorse candidates that repelled general election voters.

While he said that Mr Trumps nomination could boost Republicans in West Virginia, Ohio and Montana, Mr McConnell said he would be much more willing to get involved in primaries, emphasising: Well be involved in any primary where that seems to be necessary to get a high-quality candidate, and well be involved in every general election where we have a legitimate shot of winning  regardless of the philosophy of the nominee.

Of course, the next election is still 18 months away and the political tides are shifting. As of now, everything is a hypothetical. But both Republicans and Democrats have reasons to be nervous.
The Washington State Attorney Generals Office and Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) were fined $200,000 in what a judge has called an egregious withholding of evidence in an ongoing lawsuit.

King County Superior Court Judge Michael Ryan ordered the AGs office and DSHS to pay the fine as a sanction for the state failing to turn over 11,000 pages of records to prosecutors in a lawsuit involving the neglect of a developmentally disabled woman at an assisted living facility in Kent.

The discovery violations, in this case, are egregious, severe, without excuse and the result of willful disregard of discovery obligations by both DSHS and the attorney generals office, Ryan wrote in his 12-page order.

Her attorneys said she suffered negligent care and treatment while living at a state-licensed adult family home in Kent. Her attorneys at Hagens Berman filed the suit in 2021 but said the Attorney Generals office withheld documents, only releasing them last month.

The Attorney Generals office said in a statement they did not intentionally withhold the documents and found an additional 100,000 pages wrongfully withheld. Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Meyer said the state deeply regrets the errors in discovery in this case and is working to rectify them.

The womans attorneys claim Fergusons office tried to prevent them from asking about records while moving to dismiss the suit.

The attorneys now want the state to pay $214,000 in legal fees, with more possible as that amount doesnt include the time it will take for Hagens Berman attorneys to review the new documents.

The judge also ordered an investigation into whether the state hid any more documents, also at taxpayer expense.

In light of the new discoveries, a new trial for the lawsuit against the adult family home is set for December.

This news comes as Ferguson announces an exploratory campaign for Washington governor.

Kate Stone contributed to this report

mynorthwest.com
Tom Cruise gave the most Tom Cruise acceptance speech of all time at this years MTV Movie & TV Awards.

The action superstar, who famously does his own stunts, delivered a pre-recorded speech on May 7 while piloting a World War II propeller plane high in the sky with the MTV popcorn statuette strapped in the back seat.

Cruise, 60, won for best performance in a movie for "Top Gun: Maverick."

Things we'll never forget: @TomCruise's performance in #TopGun: Maverick 



Congrats to Tom Cruise on winning Best Performance in a Movie at the 2023 #MTVAwards! pic.twitter.com/dZr3Wglpdq  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

Hi everyone, thank you so much for this award, he said from the cockpit. I make these films for you. I love you. I love entertaining you. To know how much you enjoy it, how much you appreciate it, theres just no better feeling.

Cruise then got in a plug for his upcoming action movie "Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One," coming up in July. That film contains what Paramount Pictures called "the biggest stunt in cinema history," which involves Cruise riding a motorcycle off a cliff into a BASE jump.

Tom Cruise (@MTVAwards via Twitter)

In his acceptance speech, Cruise appears to be flying the P-51 Mustang plane that he owns, which appeared in "Top Gun: Maverick." Cruise also took former late-night host James Corden for a memorable ride on the plane last year.

You have a wonderful summer," Cruise said in his speech. "Thank you again for letting me entertain you. Its an absolute privilege. Well see you at the movies.

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Cruise then banks the plane away from the cameras to fly into the clouds.

The MTV Movie & TV Awards featured a host of pre-taped speeches after pivoting from a live event due to the Hollywood writers' strike.

Drew Barrymore stepped down from her hosting duties three days before the ceremony as a show of solidarity with the Writers Guild of America.

Cruise appeared to be multitasking on his flight in the P-51 Mustang. He recorded a similar message from the same plane that was played for King Charles III during the coronation concert in London on May 8.

The monarch is a veteran of the Britain's Royal Air Force.

Pilot to pilot," Cruise said. "Your Majesty, you can be my wingman any time.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
A Watkinsville man convicted last year by a federal jury of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material has been sentenced to serve time without parole in a federal prison.

U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal last week sentenced Eric Paul Krumm, 47, to 134 months in prison followed by 25 years on probation and $18,000 in restitution to the victims.

Krumm was found guilty of two counts of distributing child sexual abuse material and one count of possessing such material.

We will not stop pursing justice on behalf of children victimized by criminal online predators, U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary said in a statement released from his office.

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The charges stemmed from a 2016 investigation by Athens-Clarke police who found that downloads of child porn was returned to Krumm's computer, according to the release. Federal prosecutors said police seized 204 images and two videos.

Krumm is a former University of Georgia employee who was fired more than 20 years ago for hacking into computers of former co-workers, according to previous media reports on his arrest.

The child sexual abuse material in this recent case depicted prepubescent girls and included sexual assault and molestation.

A search warrant was executed by the GBI at Krumms residence on Feb. 15, 2017, and 11 electronics were seized, including laptops and hard drives, according to the release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in Macon, where Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Solis handled the prosecution.

Krumm, a former systems administrator for a multinational corporation, downloaded and distributed child sexual abuse material through a peer-to-peer file sharing network, prosecutors said.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Watkinsville man sentenced in federal court for child porn conviction
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns in Beijing on Monday.

China-U.S. relations are of great significance not only to the two countries but also to the world, Qin said, noting the important consensus reached during the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden last November in Bali, Indonesia.

However, a series of erroneous words and deeds by the U.S. side since then has undermined the hard-won positive momentum of China-U.S. relations, disrupted the planned dialogue and cooperation agenda, and chilled bilateral relations again, Qin said.

"The top priority is to stabilize China-U.S. relations, avoid a downward spiral and prevent accidents from occurring between China and the United States. This should be the basic consensus between the two countries and is also the bottom line that must be upheld when dealing with state-to-state relations, especially ties between two major countries, " Qin added.

Qin said China will follow the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation proposed by President Xi Jinping in handling China-U.S. relations, and urged the United States to deeply reflect and work with China to get the ties back on track.

The United States must stop undermining China's sovereignty, security and development interests, correctly handle the Taiwan question in particular, refrain from hollowing out the one-China principle, and stop supporting or conniving with the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, the Chinese foreign minister said.

He went on to add that accidental incidents in bilateral relations should be dealt with in a calm, professional and pragmatic manner to avoid further shocks to China-U.S. relations.

Qin expressed the hope that Ambassador Burns will have more contacts, more exchanges and more reflection in China, and make constructive efforts to serve as a bridge between China and the United States. 
It's been one week since seven bodies were discovered in Henryetta, with police confirming days later that Jesse McFadden, a convicted rapist, killed five teenagers, his wife, and then, himself.

In the days since news of the tragedy spread, families have began to experience unfathomable grief and legal experts have said the mass killing "never had to happen," pointing to failures by the state's criminal justice system based on McFadden's criminal history.

Step by step, here's what we've seen over the last week and where the conversation could turn to in the coming weeks and months after the mass murder.

Seven bodies found in Oklahoma, sending families into grief

On Monday, May 1, authorities arrived at a property, with Okmulgee County Sheriff Eddy Rice confirming to News on 6 that seven bodies were discovered at the property, including those of missing teens Brittany Brewer and Ivy Webster.

Pastor Ryan Wells hugs Nathan Brewer, the father of Brittany Brewer who was found dead, after a vigil in Henryetta Okla., on Monday, May 1, 2023.

The same night outside a vigil for the two girls, Brittany Brewer's father said he was "lost."

"She was like my right hand side-kick," Nathan Brewer said.

The following day, Ivy Webster's family returned to scene.

"I wanted answers," Ivy's father Justin Webster said, " I wanted to go on the land and get answers myself."

More: Parents of Henryetta victim Ivy Webster speak out about her death

The same day, the mother of Holly Guess confirmed in a social media post that her daughter and her three grandchildren were also killed. They included Holly Guess, 35, her children, Rylee Elizabeth Allen, 17; Michael James Mayo, 15; and Tiffany Dore Guess, 13; and Tiffany's friends Ivy Webster, 14, and Brittany Brewer, 15.

Justin Webster said his daughter and Tiffany Guess, Jesse McFadden's stepdaughter were "inseparable."

"He should have been stuck in jail. He should have rotted in there from the get-go," he said.

Ashleigh Webster shows a photo of Ivy Webster (left) and Tiffany Guess (right) at her home in Henryetta Okla., on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

Friend of Tiffany Guess almost stayed the night at Jesse McFadden's home before killings

Another close friend of Tiffany Guess, ran cross country with her. Annika Kramer's family says she was invited to also sleepover at the teen's house that weekend, but a busy schedule kept her from going.

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"It's just been a roller coaster of emotions," said Valerie Mosco, Annika's mother. "I'm very thankful that my daughter wasn't there, but also very heartbroken for the ones that were and the families that are dealing with the tragedy in a different way than I am."

The impact of such a traumatizing event will continue to haunt the family and community, Mosco.

'She was my best friend': Henryetta teen missed the sleepover that ended with 7 dead

"Not only did he rob (five) beautiful children of their lives forever but he also robbed my daughter and her friends of their innocence to trust other parents," she wrote on Facebook. "He robbed them of excitement for sleepovers, he robbed them of peaceful sleeping without nightmares, he left these kids and many others with huge crushed hearts."

This undated photo provided by Janette Mayo shows from left, Tiffany Guess, Michael Mayo and Rylee Elizabeth Allen, three of seven people found dead on a property in rural Oklahoma on Monday, May 1, 2020. As law enforcement officials went silent Tuesday, May 2, 2023, while piecing together what led to the killing of seven people in rural Oklahoma, family members of those slain recalled the controlling nature of one of the dead, who was a registered sex offender. (Courtesy Janette Mayo via AP)

Police confirm Jesse McFadden as shooter in Henryetta murder-suicide, Ivy Webster's family points to holes in investigation

Two days after the bodies had been discovered at a property in Henryetta, Okmulgee Police Chief Joe Prentice confirmed the identifies of each individual, saying Jesse McFadden shot the five teens and his wife before turning the gun on himself.

People who perpetrate crimes like this are evil, and normal folks like us cant understand why they do it, Prentice said.

While Prentice did take questions from the press, he did not disclose to the news outlets that at least one of the victims may have been raped. The Oklahoman sought confirmation from the chief medical examiner after an Okmulgee County sheriff's deputy reportedly told Webster's father, mother and a grandmother that she had been raped.

Oklahoma's chief medical examiner, Dr. Eric Pfeifer, confirmed Thursday that the sexual assault of victims is under investigation, saying his office "examined each decedent for physical signs of sexual assault and obtained standard evidence samples, including those for possible sexual assault."

'They let a monster out': Questions remain about why convicted rapist remained free

An attorney for Webster's family expressed shock when they learned that "computers and cellphones had not been secured by law enforcement" from McFadden's home. Police later collected iPads and a cellphone Thursday morning after the family complained, but Shannon Boykin, Ivy Webster's grandmother took cellphone videos inside McFadden's house Thursday afternoon that showing some computer equipment still at the residence.

Calls for changes to Oklahoma sex offender laws come as Henryetta and Okmulguee County remain traumatized by tragedies

Joining family members in addressing the tragedy have been community members and state officials.

Muskogee County District Attorney Larry Edwards said McFadden's case in his county, that involved charges stemming from soliciting child porn from a teen girl while he was in prison in 2017, should have been resolved sooner.

Court records show the case has been set for trial at least eight times since September2019, compounded by the pandemic and the death of McFadden' previous attorney. Other lawyers across Oklahoma agree that McFadden's case was exceptionally long.

'This never had to happen': McFadden's delayed trial before Henryetta killings prompts calls for reform

Brett Chapman, a Tulsa defense attorney who previously worked as a prosecutor put the blame for the delays on the state government.

Its not the victims fault that they cannot properly hold jury terms, he said. Thats on the state government.

Justin and Haydon Webster, the father and brother of Ivy Webster who was found dead Monday, visit the site where Ivys body was found in Henryetta Okla., on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

Justin Webster said his family were not even aware of McFadden's criminal history despite serving 17 years in prison for rape.

"I felt like I trusted (McFadden's wife) Holly, and I felt like I trusted Jesse. But our law enforcement let us down, our judicial system let us down."

Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane has called for a total overhaul of Oklahomas criminal justice system in the wake of the killings.

We have to dig deep and look at this case," Humphrey said. "Should we have to write a law? Thats where we are today. The system is failing.

Police speak with Nathan Brewer at his home in Henryetta Okla., on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.

And even as Nathan Brewer has also made calls for laws concerning sex offenders to be changed, a history of traumatizing events in recent years involving violent murders is leaving an impact on the greater Okmulgee County.

Struggling to cope: Inside an Oklahoma thrust Henryetta into the national spotlight by a murder-suicide

I mean, it just seems like the people are saying, Whats next? said Linda Gerster, a 74-year-old woman who runs an antique store in in Henryetta. Our community didnt use to be this way. Its really affecting the people. Theyre just saying, Who do you trust with your family?

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: After Henryetta murders, sorrow and calls for change flow in Oklahoma
South Carolina lawmakers have less than a week left on the legislative calendar to move the needle forward on bills.

Last week, Senate lawmakers voted on key legislation that offered paid family leave to teachers and school district employees. They also discussed the importance of home rule and local regulation of nicotine products.

But tensions rose during debate about the critical race theory bill, raising questions about who sets the agenda and what matters the most when residents step out to vote during elections.

Let's dive into what happened and what to expect before the session ends Thursday.

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A tale of two brothers: How a Spartanburg lawmaker and his brother finally met a bear

South Carolina teachers and school district employees on track to get paid family leave

Last week, Senate lawmakers passed H. 3908, which would guarantee six weeks paid leave for public school teachers following the birth or adoption of a child or the placement of a foster child.

The bill, introduced in the house by Upstate lawmaker Rep. Neal Collins, R-Pickens, passed 38-0 in the Senate.

Sen. Sean Bennett, R-Dorchester, said the bill matched benefits that were extended to state employees last year. In the case of two parents, both parents can take the paid leave consecutively and concurrently, Bennett explained.

SC school vouchers: Opponents say bill lacks 'evidence' for success, won't level playing field

Neal Collins Republican candidate for S.C. House for District 5 (Easley)

The Senate made an amendment in the language where the rules surrounding paid leave would be handled by the Board of Education and not the Department of Education.

The bill now heads to the House, where lawmakers will vote on the amendments.

Senate advances bill barring local governments from enacting restrictions on tobacco products

Supporters of the tobacco industry-backed H. 3681 said it would prevent a "patchwork quilt" of rules in the state and would instead ensure a uniform law for all.

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Sen. Danny Verdin, R-Laurens, said the bill pre-empted a problem that currently does not exist but having uniformity made "good business sense, good regulatory sense and makes good heath policy sense."

He said local governments cannot pinpoint and ban a particular product or tobacco flavor if they felt it was harmful.

So far, Myrtle Beach, in 2018, is the only local municipality that passed an ordinance to restrict flavored e-cigarettes.

Sen. Thomas McElveen, D-Sumter, who has opposed the bill for years, questioned why it was such a problem if a local government wanted to ban flavors such as cotton candy or menthol to deter minors from smoking.

"This is just a small carve out affecting tobacco products, am I wrong about that?" McElveen said, adding that this bill may take tools out of a local body's hands.

Earlier this year, when the Senate Medical Affairs Committee was debating a similar Senate bill, public health advocates were staunchly against the move. Beth Johnson with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network told the Greenville News on Feb. 8, 2023, that lawmakers could instead prioritize matching state law with federal law.

Federal law bans the sale of tobacco products to youth under the age of 21 and takes precedence over state law, which allows the sale of tobacco to youth under the age of 18.

Echoing McElveen, Johnson questioned whether this bill protects minors from tobacco products. Or, will it prevent local governments from doing what the state has not been able to do?

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State Senate: Republican state Rep. Roger Nutt at peace with decision to run

Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto introduced an amendment to mitigate youth access to tobacco

Sen. Brad Hutto, D-Orangeburg introduced an amendment to penalize businesses that sold products to minors in an attempt to shift the focus of the bill from ensuring uniformity to curbing minors from accessing products. The bill gives local police and SLED jurisdiction to enter stores to enforce age-appropriate restrictions.

The bill passed 26-16.

Lawmakers feud over critical race theory and hate crime legislation

When the House sent over H. 3728, Senators took out provisions that would allow any person to sue the school district and also mandate teachers to post their curriculum three days before they were going to teach it in class.

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey, R-Edgefield took the well to explain the bill. He reiterated he wanted children to learn about uncomfortable events of the past and that they should not be blamed for the events. The bill will set up a complaint form for parents and guardians to contest instructional materials they think are inappropriate.

South Carolina Senate Majority leader Shane Massey of District 25 in Edgefield speaks during a session in the South Carolina Senate of the State Capitol in Columbia, S.C. in 2021.

"There has not been one complaint or one record of a teacher blaming an individual student for anything that has happened in history," Sen. Darrell Jackson, D-Richland. "It concerns me because this sounds like Fox News talking points."

Democrats said they feared the complaint forms will lead to prohibitions and inevitably impact the professional development of teachers.

"We want our teachers to be creative!" Sen. Vernon Stephens, D-Orangeburg said.

The discussion grew testy after Democrats posed questions about why lawmakers refused to debate the hate crimes bill. They argued that while there weren't records of teachers asking elementary school students to feel guilty about their race, there were instances of hate crimes.

Dig deeper: Could the lack of a hate crimes bill hurt job growth in South Carolina?

South Carolina and Wyoming are the two only states without hate crime legislation. The current hate crime legislation was passed from the House with a thumping majority but is blocked in the Senate. Last year, a similar blockade in the Senate ultimately killed the bill.

Massey said the critical race theory bill had a better chance of countering hate and referred to the current hate crime legislation as a solution that was just "for show".

He said if the people in South Carolina wanted a hate crimes law passed, there would be enough people in the Senate who will move to make that happen.

"Respectfully, If we have folks on the left who don't like the agenda that's being set, go out and win a frikking election," Massey responded.

The bill is still waiting for a vote.

Abortion issue in presidential race: Nikki Haley wants to be 'consensus builder' in heated national debate

Advocates anticipate another go at an abortion ban

Senators blocked a near-total abortion ban on April 27, 2023. But now, their six-week abortion ban sits in the House. With three business days left, advocates anticipate the House will debate the six-week abortion ban.

The six-week abortion ban is similar to the 2021 fetal heartbeat bill that was struck down by the SC Supreme Court. Senate lawmakers said they introduced provisions to safeguard the bill from future litigation.

For that to pass, far-right lawmakers would have to budge from their position of passing an abortion ban from the time of conception and end a deadlock that has continued since last year.

Devyani Chhetri covers South Carolina politics for the Greenville News. Reach her at dchhetri@gannett.com or @ChhetriDevyani

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: SC lawmakers to discuss CRT, abortion ban, hate crimes, tobacco
By Natalie Grover

LONDON (Reuters) - Diabetes drugs that also promote weight loss such as Novo Nordisks Ozempic, becoming a darling of celebrities and investors, are being studied to tackle some of the most difficult-to-treat brain disorders, including Alzheimers disease.

Diabetes regimens, from Ozempic to old mainstays like insulin and metformin, appear to address several different aspects of the metabolic system implicated in Alzheimer's disease, including a protein called amyloid and inflammation, researchers say.

The hope is that improving glucose utilisation and tamping down inflammation in the entire body - including the brain - could slow progression of debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Several scientists interviewed by Reuters pointed to mounting research supporting testing diabetes drugs against neurodegenerative diseases.

Results are years away and success uncertain. But interest has been buoyed by recent positive data on Alzheimer's drugs developed by Eisai Co Ltd with partner Biogen and by Eli Lilly and Co demonstrating that removing sticky amyloid plaques accumulated in the brain can slow cognition decline caused by the fatal mind-wasting disease.

Those successes followed decades of futility that had left many questioning the validity of the amyloid theory behind most experimental Alzheimer's drugs.

Dr. Suzanne Craft, professor of gerontology and geriatric medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, gave a keynote speech at an influential Alzheimer's scientific meeting late last year about the need to test treatments such as diabetes drugs to further reduce the advance of Alzheimer's.

She said she has since been approached by pharmaceutical companies at an increasing pace, and is currently running an Alzheimers trial evaluating intranasal insulin in combination with another diabetes drug.

Diabetes treatments may amplify the clinical benefit of anti-amyloid drugs, and potentially lead to complete stabilization or even some recovery in Alzheimer's patients, Craft said.

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"This is what these agents do, and what insulin does. It plays a role in regeneration. And that's what needs to happen. Given its role in modulating immune function, it may prevent the amyloid from continuing to accumulate," Craft surmised.

Unlike older off-patent medicines like metformin, there is commercial incentive to test newer treatments such as GLP-1 agonists, a rapidly expanding class now dominated by Ozempic, known chemically as semaglutide, and Lilly's Mounjaro, with other players working on a dozen potential new treatments.

Four companies with GLP-1 drugs, including two larger drugmakers, say they are watching for results of trials testing Novo's drug in Alzheimer's.

Ivan Koychev, consultant neuropsychiatrist for Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, is running a trial testing semaglutide with the aim of halting the earliest changes in the brains of people at risk of developing Alzheimer's.

GLP-1s are his primary focus, he said, because there is "good epidemiological evidence that they are linked to lower risk for dementia but run much lower risk of serious side-effects relative to the amyloid clearance therapies."

Anti-amyloid therapies carry the risk of dangerous brain swelling.

Any success could lead to a big payoff. Dementia affects more than 55 million people globally and the market for Alzheimers drugs is expected to grow to $9.4 billion by 2028 and for Parkinsons to $6.6 billion, according to pharmaceutical data provider Citeline. Despite their potential against Alzheimer's, early research has yielded mixed results, cautioned Hannah Churchill, research communications manager at the Alzheimer's Society. "It's definitely worth pursuing, but it's difficult to know whether this is a front-runner at this stage," she said.

EYE ON NOVO

Novo in 2021 began two trials testing semaglutide - also sold for weight loss as Wegovy - in thousands of patients with early Alzheimers. Results are expected by 2025 as it takes years to show an effect on the progressive condition.

The Danish drugmaker declined to be interviewed for this story. "Everyone is waiting to see what that might show. Investors want somebody else to first take the risk in Alzheimers, like Novo," said Ted Dawson, professor of neurology at John Hopkins University and co-founder of Neuraly, which has an experimental GLP-1 drug. Lilly told Reuters it is watching that trial closely. Pfizer, which has experimental GLP-1s, also has its eye on Novo. Smaller companies, including U.S.-based Neuraly and Denmark-based Kariya Pharmaceuticals, said they are evaluating experimental GLP-1 drugs against Parkinsons and could consider moving onto Alzheimers should the Novo trial bear fruit.

Parkinson's trials tend to take less time and may require fewer patients because it's easier to assess the impact on motor function characteristics of the disease to understand whether the treatments benefit the brain.

Wassilios Meissner, head of the department of neurology for neurodegenerative diseases at University Hospital Bordeaux, is involved in a mid-stage Parkinson's trial testing Sanofi's GLP-1 lixisenatide.

Meissner said postmortem research of the brains of both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients shows insulin signalling is impaired.

"That means that these pathways that provide support to the brain are dysfunctional," he said. "So people have started questioning whether there might be an interest for anti-diabetics for the treatment of these disorders."

(Reporting by Natalie Grover in London; Additional reporting by Mike Erman in New York and Deena Beasley in Los Angeles; Editing by Caroline Humer and Bill Berkrot)
It has taken nearly 13 years but a never finished office park in Sacramentos Little Saigon neighborhood on Stockton Boulevard is now owned by WellSpace Health which plans to spend $120 million to turn the vacant eyesore into a medical campus.

Part of that campus is going to be 24 hour operations bringing lights on, hundreds of employees to a community where theres been a blighted building, a blighted property, said Jonathan Porteus, CEO of WellSpace Health.

The partially completed office park has remained vacant since 2009 to the chagrin of local leaders who helped the office park would help increase other development in Little Saigon.

WellSpace Health plans to turn one of the partially finished four buildings by October 2023 into a 32,000-square-foot 24-hour mental health hub, housing its state and federally funded 988 mental health suicide prevention and crisis hotline, in addition to facilities for emergency in person counseling, Porteus said.

Later, the seven to eight year plan for the 13 acre-site calls for dental clinics and expansion of an institute, currently based in Carmichael, to train health professionals.

One hundred employees staffing the mental health crisis center will be the first employees on the campus.

An unfinished office park sits abandoned on Stockton Boulevard and Riza Avenue in Sacramentos Little Saigon area in 2020. WellSpace Health plans to turn the vacant property into a medical campus.

What this means for Little Saigon

Today some of the windows in the two story office buildings are boarded, other uncovered windows show empty unfinished space without walls. Garbage lines a side street by the office park including an abandoned mattresses.

Its a white elephant that stood empty for 13 years, said Frank Louie, the executive director of the Stockton Boulevard Partnership, a private public improvement district that includes the two mile stretch that makes up Little Saigon.

Back in the summer of 2009, there was high hope for the office park to help build momentum to encourage other commercial development. The Stockton Boulevard area had become home for thousands of Southeast Asians who immigrated to Sacramento in the years following the end of the Vietnam-American War in 1975.

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Vincene Jones, who was chief of staff for then Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo, said the office park dedication ceremony in the summer of 2009 attracted all the key people representing the Little Saigon community.

It was a massive dedication with everybody attending. Your congressman, your assembly member, your council members who all were really enthused about the fact that these buildings were going to be a catalyst for Little Saigon. So it was just wonderful, she recalled.

But the dedication ceremony was held before the construction of the 64,000 square feet in the first four buildings in the office park were completed. The exterior of the buildings had been finished but the insides were just empty shells, said Louie.

A few months later the great financial crisis was at hand in the U.S.

We had a fallout in the economy and the buildings were a little over halfway completed, Louie said. All the construction stopped and the access to capital just kind of dried up.

Why the office park hit hard times

The original idea was to sell individual spots in the first 64,000 square feet of space as business condos, Louie said, an idea that could have worked if the economy had not collapsed.

Louie said the office park went into foreclosure, and was acquired by a new set of developers. A series of owners over the next 13-years were unable to obtain financing to finish the office parks initial buildings, he said.

He said another problem that may have prevented development were unconfirmed rumors that spread through Little Saigon that the financing for the office park came from financial backers who were once tied to North Vietnam. He said that did not sit well with Vietnamese residents of little Saigon, who came to the U.S. from South Vietnam.

Jones said she also heard rumors, but could never determine if they were true.

People in the community said the money used to finance the building of the park was dirty, she said.

Little Saigon developed despite unfinished park

Even without the office park, much of Little Saigon has prospered over the last decade. Shopping centers have been renovated and multiple Asian supermarkets compete for customers.

The Sacramento City Council official designation of the area as Little Saigon in 2010, helped encourage pride and new businesses in the area, said Louie.

But not every business made it through the pandemic, and Louie said the vacancy rate on Stockton Boulevard is 8% to 10%.

He feels finishing the office park will boost all of Little Saigon, helping increase occupancy of some of the vacant stores and construction on 40 vacant lots on Stockton Boulevard.

It definitely is going to be a catalyst, he said.

WellSpace Health paid $13.2 million for the property from the latest ownership group, said Porteus. The money included $.4.75 million approved by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors.

WellSpaces 30 health clinics in the Sacramento region serve largely low-income residents covered by Medicaid or seniors covered by Medicare or the uninsured.

Porteus said the new campus was essential for WellSpace Health, particularly because of quickly expanding staff increases for its 988 mental health crisis hotline. The federal government mandated a separate hotline starting in July 2022 to divert calls away from the 911 system and untrained dispatchers not equipped to offer immediate mental health services.

WellSpace provides crisis services for callers from 26 California counties.

A representative of the ownership group that sold the office park property to WellSpace Health did not return phone calls. The group, Little Saigon Plaza Sacramento LLC, is registered to a Quang Luong, according to the California Secretary of States Office.
Native Americans Stand Guard

Members of the American Indian Movement and local Oglala Sioux stand guard outside the Sacred Heart Catholic Church after taking control of the town during a 71 day standoff with the FBI and US Marshals. Credit - Bettmann Archive/Getty Images

In February 1973, Stephanie Autumn of the Hopi tribe was a college student in California when a friend suggested she leave school and go get a different sort of education somewhere else: Wounded Knee, a hamlet in South Dakota which was about to be taken over by 200 American Indian movement (AIM) activists.

He told me, You have the rest of your life to get your degree, but this is an opportunity for you to learn who you are, Autumn recalls in a recent phone conversation.

Soon, she found herself on the security detail for a newly formed encampment of Native American protesters, using a radio donated by Vietnam Veterans Against the War and checking to make sure people in the bunkers were safe. It was like we were in a war zone within our own country, Autumn says. Gunfire every day. At night, it got worse. She celebrated her 19th birthday with a candy bar and a taste of freedomwhat it felt like to be independent from the United States government, she says. That was one of the happiest times of my life.

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Fifty years ago, on May 8, 1973, a 71-day standoff between Native Americans and the U.S. government ended, when the Native Americans agreed to disarm and the government agreed to discuss the state of treaties with the groups. The AIM activists had occupied Wounded Knee beginning on February 27, 1973 with multiple motives, TIME reported in its March 19, 1973 issue: They call for everything from control of reservation lands and mineral rights to restoration of ancient tribal customs and the power to specify curriculums in Indian grade schools. There were also internal divisions among the Native Americans; many of the activists involved in the occupation were calling for the ouster of Oglala Sioux tribal head Dick Wilson, whom they saw as more aligned with the U.S. government than members of the tribe.

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Read More: Without Indigenous History, There Is No U.S. History

At one point, as many as 300 FBI agents and U.S. Marshals were stationed around Wounded Knee with M-16 rifles and gas masks. At least three people died, and more than a dozen were wounded during the occupation. According to Indian County Today, the standoff resulted in more than 1,200 arrests and 275 cases in federal, state and tribal courts. AIM leaders Russell Means, Clyde Bellecourt, and Dennis Banks faced 11 criminal charges but the cases were eventually dismissed.

The occupation drew attention to the issue of indigenous rights in an unprecedented way. TIME described the historical significance of the ongoing standoff in the March 12 issue: The tiny junction settlement (pop. 40) is the site of the infamous massacre of some 300 old men, women and children of the Sioux nation by the U.S. Cavalry in the winter of 1890. It was overrun one night last week by roughly 200 armed members of the American Indian Movement (AIM), a militant group best known for its week-long occupation of the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington last November. Thus a drama began to unwind at Wounded Knee deep in an area where there is open tension between mostly impoverished Indians and whites.

TIME correspondent Ken Huff spent a night inside the Native Americans encampment. The warriors, perhaps 150 of them, seemed perfectly willing to die, Huff observed. A Sioux spiritual leader named Leonard Crow Dog struck up a chant in the Lakota language. As each warrior passed by, he blessed him and painted a slash or a circle of red powder under the left eye. Each warrior then stepped into a white tepee, making a holy sign over the bleached skull of a buffalo head.

Madonna Thunder Hawk, one of the AIM activists, was a medic during the Wounded Knee occupation who tended to those wounded in firefights as flares lit up the night sky. We didnt have any change of clothes, she says in a recent phone conversation. We werent prepared for 70-some days.

Read More: The Supreme Court Will Decide the Future of Native American Foster Children

The standoff was the latest in a series of dramatic demonstrations by Native American activists who were galvanized by the 1960s civil rights movements and protests against the Vietnam war; just a couple years prior, from 1969 to 1971, Native American activists occupied Alcatraz Island off San Francisco. Kent Blansett, a historian of Cherokee, Creek, Choctaw, Shawnee, and Potawatomi descent at the University of Kansas, says the daily news coverage of the occupation put indigenous rights on the radars of non-indigenous American households. A lot of people were saying, Wait a second. I turned on the TV, and I thought we were watching a gunfight in Vietnam, but this wasnt Vietnam, Blansett says. This is in our backyard.

The Wounded Knee occupation even stole the spotlight at the biggest night in Hollywood, when on March 27, 1973, Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather went onstage at the Academy Awards in place of Marlon Brando and refused to accept his Oscar for best actor in the Godfather; instead she voiced his support for activists at Wounded Knee while slamming the film industrys unequal treatment of Native Americans.

Robert Warrior, co-author of Like a Hurricane: The Indian Movement from Alcatraz to Wounded Knee, argues that Wounded Knee was effective for Native Americans because it took getting shot at by the U.S. Army to be noticed. The daily news coverage in the television showed this wasnt a Hollywood Western, he continues. This was happening to real people. He also believes that the occupation reminded non-indigenous people, more than any other Native American demonstration, that Native Americans were not just a thing of the past.

Blansett also considers the occupation incredibly successful, arguing, The point of this was to really draw attention to a lack of indigenous rights. Did it do that? Yes it did. Did it lead to further legislation being passed that would promote indigenous rights? Yes it did. The American Indian Movements victories during the 1970s included the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, which protected Native Americans rights to practice their traditional religions, and the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, which gave tribes greater autonomy over the federal programs serving their communities.

In the decades since Wounded Knee, Native Americans have never stopped fighting to maintain their land. Thunder Hawk wants future generations of indigenous people to learn about the Wounded Knee occupation as part of this long history of fighting to get your land back, land that was stolen.

Autumn says many of those involved in the occupation 50 years ago are still Native American rights activists today. The standoff changed our lives, she says, in terms of our responsibility to come back and serve our communityto fight against racism and to fight against policies that are hurting our people. She would go on to devote her career to prison reform and efforts to reduce disparities in the justice system for indigenous people. Our communities are like third world countries, compared to how the rest of America lives, Autumn says. We are the most invisible population in the United States of America.
West Milford school board members last week agreed to pay a consultant $10,000 to find the district's next superintendent.

With current Superintendent Alex Anemone set to leave the district in June after seven years, board members hired Kathleen Helewa to find a replacement. Helewa, a Warren resident, was until recently the senior manager of the New Jersey School Boards Association's Field Services Department, which also offers superintendent search services.

William Cytowicz, a school board member, said stability in the superintendent's role will be important for the district's future success. It will be key to find someone focused on student advocacy, community engagement and strategic planning, he said.

NJ news This North Jersey nonprofit repaired homes for families in need across Bergen, Passaic

The last element could prove vital as the district continues to struggle with finances amid a string of state aid cuts. The 2023-24 school year budget adopted this week is 2.5% higher than the current school year's. Enrollment, meanwhile, is expected to drop 3%.

The projected increased in spending is due in part to a $1.2 million reduction in state aid and an expected $1.7 million increase in the cost of employee benefits, district officials said. The result is a nearly 4.5% increase in the town's school tax levy needed to support the 2023-24 budget, officials said. That amounts to a $235 increase in the property tax bill for the town's average home, assessed at $242,700.

Terry Dwyer, a board trustee who voted against the budget's adoption, criticized the administration for eliminating staff in the high school and failing to see through a redistricting effort that would dovetail with the repurposing of Westbrook Elementary School for special needs instruction later this year. Aside from Anemone's pending departure, Elizabeth McQuaid, the district's director of special services, left the district at the end of 2022.

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Residents have also criticized the budget proposal, with some parents particularly discouraged by a plan to cut more than 20 positions across the district. Among them are five teaching positions at the high school, two at the middle school and six in the elementary schools, records show. The elementary school cuts are an offshoot of the board's decision to repurpose Westbrook and consolidate the district's elementary students at five schools.

For subscribers Passaic County to condemn 27 Wayne properties for $10M road expansion

Anemone is due to start in Ridgefield on July 1. That four-school district has about 1,550 students and a $45 million annual budget. Before taking the helm in West Milford for the 2016-17 school year, Anemone was the superintendent for the Butler school district.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: West Milford school board begins search for new superintendent
A helicopter carrying a "Bambi Bucket" flies toward a forest fire near the town of Drayton Valley in Canada's Alberta province

Canada struggled on Monday to control wildfires that have forced thousands to flee, halted oil production and razed towns, with the western province of Alberta calling for federal help.

Some 30,000 people were ordered to leave their homes over the past three days, as nearly 100 fires flared across the province -- including 27 out of control.

Federal disaster officials and the military were on standby, after Alberta leader Danielle Smith spoke with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally ask for assistance.

"Canadians stand with the people of Alberta as they deal with these terrible, terrible wildfires," Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa.

"We were watching images from the communities affected by these wildfires and I assured Danielle that we will be there to help," he said.

Details of what supports would be made available were not immediately released.

In Alberta, firefighters prioritized dousing flames threatening homes and businesses. Many roads near the provincial capital Edmonton were blocked off as temporary shelters welcomed evacuees.

Officials said 390,000 hectares had burned, patients and long-term care residents had to be relocated and many schools were closed.

Oil firms -- including Vermilion Energy and Crescent Point Energy -- announced temporary shutdowns of operations, slashing production by more than 125,000 barrels of oil per day.

Many residents and oil workers rode to safety in motorhomes or with campers in tow, and set up in empty parking lots.

Others are staying with friends or family, like Jerry Greiner, a resident from Dayton Valley, west of Edmonton, the capital of Alberta.

"We could see the smoke on Friday and there was a pretty strong wind," the 55-year-old told AFP, his eyes tearing up as he recounted receiving the order to evacuate that night.

"We quickly grabbed our bags (and went) to our friends' house. About 12 people stayed there," he said. This was the first time Greiner has ever had to flee wildfires.

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Dayton Valley, a small town of 7,000, was completely abandoned. Trees and grass fields all around were blackened by the fires, and smoke billowed from a few charred buildings, but most of the homes appeared intact, observed an AFP reporter.

- Black smokey skies -

It was not clear when residents would be permitted to return.

Resident Randy Braun, 57, said the fire chief told locals it would be "at least a week minimum."

Smith said the fires "may continue on for several months," but added that evacuation orders had been lifted in the morning for three communities.

Kathy Bereuwski, 61, escaped with her family and dogs. "The sky," she told AFP, "was pitch black" with smoke and falling ash.

In the northern community of Fox Lake, a fire destroyed 20 homes, a store and a police station. Residents had to be evacuated by boat and helicopter.

The Alberta premier declared a state of emergency on Saturday, calling the wildfire situation "unprecedented."

The province -- one of the world's largest oil-producing regions -- "has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," she said.

Almost all of Alberta as well as much of neighboring Saskatchewan province, parts of British Columbia and a large swath of the Northwest Territories face extreme fire risks.

Two out-of-control wildfires in westernmost British Columbia have also forced residents to evacuate, and authorities have warned they expect strong winds to swell those blazes.

In recent years, western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, the intensity and frequency of which have increased due to global warming.

Forest fires in Canada's oil sands region in 2016 disrupted production and forced out 100,000 residents from Fort McMurray, pummelling the nation's economy.

More recently in 2021, British Columbia suffered record-high temperatures over the summer that killed more than 500 people, as well as wildfires that destroyed an entire town.

That was followed by devastating floods and mudslides.

Christie Tucker, a spokesperson with Alberta's wildfire agency, said Monday brought "a continuation of yesterday's break in the hot weather across most of the province, with light scattered showers."

"It's a much needed chance to make progress on some of these powerful, challenging wildfires," she said. "But we're not out of the woods yet."

bur-tib-amc/bgs/md
NEW YORK (AP)  At Westminster Abbey, Britain's King Charles III was crowned Saturday. At the Westminster Kennel Club dog show this week, a cavalier King Charles spaniel won't be as lucky.

The affectionate toy dogs are having a moment amid the monarchical fanfare. Over 100 King Charles spaniels marched in a parade in London Saturday to celebrate the coronation, some sporting miniature crowns, perhaps politely signaling to Pembroke Welsh corgis to move over after decades of attention as the late Queen Elizabeth II's beloved pets.

Across the pond in New York, Chester the cavalier won his breed, then got eliminated in the semifinals Monday at the Westminster show, the United States' premier canine event.

Cavalier King Charles spaniels are named not for the current sovereign but for 17th-century predecessors Charles I and especially Charles II, who was known for his fondness for wee spaniels. (A similar breed, known in the U.S. as the English toy spaniel, comes in both Prince Charles and King Charles varieties; the difference is in the coat colors.)

Cavs, as they often are called for short, are renowned for their soft-eyed, sweet expression and attachment to their people.

They really do comfort you and look deep in your soul, says breeder Lynnette Bragg of Springfield, Georgia.

She said her cavaliers saved our life after she and her husband lost two sons, 17-year-old Matthew in a 2001 car crash and 36-year-old Scott, who had multiple disabilities, in 2010.

She was at Westminster on Monday to show one of her cavaliers, named Hope. The dog splits time between Bragg and her friend Lori Dasher, whose husband died of COVID-19 in 2021.

I knew when Lori lost her husband, and those children lost their dad, they need a little Hope over there, Bragg said as she and Dasher awaited Hope's turn in the ring.

Shes our little royal girl, Bragg said.

___

New York-based Associated Press journalist Jennifer Peltz has covered the Westminster dog show since 2013.
According to the experts, there is no way for the average person to differentiate a natural from a lab-grown diamond.

According to the experts, there is no way for the average person to differentiate a natural from a lab-grown diamond.

If youve bought a piece of fine jewelry containing a diamond in recent years, youve likely encountered a more affordable option in a lab-grown diamond  especially if you were in the market for an engagement ring.

While you may shell out around $23,000 for a 2-carat halo ring of natural diamonds, the lab-grown version of the same ring might cost $6,000  a staggering difference for two options that are visually, chemically and physically the same.

Laboratory-grown, or synthetic, diamonds are more popular than ever as consumers are drawn to their affordability compared to mined, or natural, diamonds. Plus, sustainability and ethics are now top of mind for many diamond shoppers, even more so since the 2006 film Blood Diamond shed light on many of the inhumane practices in traditional diamond mining.

But when you ask the experts, the differences between mined and lab-grown diamonds arent so cut and dry  especially where ethics and sustainability are concerned. We talked to four industry experts to break it down.

Synthetic diamonds are created in a laboratory, and they sometimes begin as a tiny piece of a natural diamond.

As the name implies, lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory, rather than harvested from nature. Technically speaking, there are two ways of producing lab-grown diamonds, explained Avi Levy, the president of North America for theInternational Gemological Institute. The first is the high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) method, where heavy mechanical presses and intense heat are combined to replicate the conditions under which natural diamonds formed. The second is chemical vapor deposition (CVD), a process that superheats gas into plasma, releasing carbon atoms to build a diamond crystal at the atomic level.

Both methods actually start with a tiny piece of a mined diamond. A sliver of a natural diamond seed [is] placed in a chamber, said Anna Bario, co-founder of Bario Neal, which sells both lab-grown and natural diamonds. The lab then adds carbon and heat, mimicking the way that diamonds form naturally in the Earth. The seed then grows and grows into a high-quality diamond.

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And while both of these methods grow real diamonds, said Levy, one process (CVD) assembles the diamond in vertical layers and the other (HPHT) uses a metal catalyst to dissolve component carbon. These different approaches may produce microscopic inclusions (internal characteristics) which differ from those seen in natural diamonds, but not always. Once polished, both HPHT and CVD produce gemstones that look identical to natural diamonds.

To the naked eye, there is no difference between a mined and lab-grown diamond.

According to the experts, there is no way for the average person to differentiate a natural from a lab-grown diamond. There are no differences to the naked eye, Levy said. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, scientifically, chemically, physically and optically. You can only separate natural and lab-grown diamonds with sophisticated testing.

Theyre also identical when it comes to hardness, both scoring a 10 (the highest value) on the Mohs scale, which is used to define hardness of materials.

There are two ways that trained experts can spot a synthetic diamond. There are small but significant differences in inclusions and growth structure that allow a trained gemologist to distinguish between natural and lab-created diamonds. These differences may only be identified under extreme magnification, said George Leifheit, vice president of global strategic sourcing for Signet, the parent company ofKay, which sells both lab-grown and natural diamonds.

Another method is by a tiny inscription, which is required in a lab-grown diamond. Per the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, all lab-created diamonds are required to carry the label lab-created or lab-grown so the consumer can have confidence in the diamond they are buying, added Leifheit.

Lab-grown diamonds are much cheaper than natural diamonds, even of the same quality.

Since visually and chemically, the two vareities are the same, the biggest discernible difference is the price point  and its a substantial one. When picking a lab-grown diamond over a natural one, you can frequently double the carat weight for the same budget, Levy said.

Diamonds are graded based on their clarity, cut, carat and color (known as the four Cs). If a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond rank equally in all four categories, the lab-created version will be significantly cheaper  about 20-30% cheaper on average, estimated Leifheit, adding, The price difference will increase as the carat size goes up.

At the DDI Foundation German Diamond Institute, a natural diamond with 3.53 carats is placed in a diamond tester. The device is used to test whether the diamonds are synthetic or natural.

At the DDI Foundation German Diamond Institute, a natural diamond with 3.53 carats is placed in a diamond tester. The device is used to test whether the diamonds are synthetic or natural.

Simply put, with lab-created diamonds, you get more for your money. They offer large finger coverage for a more affordable price, Bario said.

The reason for the financial variation is based on the rarity and the history of a mined diamond. Materials from the Earth, like mined diamonds and gemstones, are cosmic-level pieces of planetary history, Bario explained. They formed into existence over centuries, long before we held them, and those ancient elements cant be replicated in a lab.

One day, the Earth will run out of economic diamond mines, but synthetic diamond manufacturing offers an inexhaustible supply, said Jessica Cadzow-Collins, a qualified gemologist, former heritage director of Garrard (which made many of the U.K.s crown jewels over 140 years) and founder of Jessica May Jewels. Natural diamonds are being depleted, and in time  access to natural diamonds will almost certainly run out. The cost of natural diamonds has risen slowly but steadily over the last 30 years and continues to do so.

Theres also a major disparity when it comes to resale value. Synthetic diamonds are cheap and plentiful and are made by a widely replicated process compared to natural diamonds, so there is absolutely no resale value, Cadzow-Collins added. Natural diamonds retain their value indefinitely.

Both lab-grown and mined diamonds can be more and less sustainable, depending on a companys process.

Though many people assume that purchasing a lab-grown diamond will be a more sustainable and ethical choice than purchasing a mined diamond, thats not always the case. Part of that is due to the recent positive changes in the diamond mining industry.

When it comes to natural diamonds, no other industry has done more to oppose conflict minerals (including gold, tin, tungsten, coltan, etc.) than the modern diamond industry, Levy said. The worlds largest miners have put programs in place partnering with Indigenous people and communities where their diamonds are extracted. There are still geopolitical issues impacting supply in places  but since the end of the last century sweeping changes have taken place in the interest of environmental, social and governance (ESG)  the framework used to assess an organizations business practices and performance on various sustainability and ethical issues.

Moreover, many consumers might also think that an advantage of cultivated diamonds is zero impact on the environment, however, that claim is not possible for lab-grown or mined diamonds (or really any inorganic object thats human-made), Bario said. Both require water and nonrenewable energies like oil, gas or coal to fuel them.

In fact, depending on exactly how its done and who is doing the growing, diamond creation in a laboratory setting may not be sustainable at all due to the vast amount of electricity that is required to power six weeks of unimaginable amount of heat and pressure required in the advanced technological processes that replicate the dense carbon crystal lattices of diamond, Cadzow-Collins noted.

Still, there are ways to create a diamond more responsibly than others. Some lab-grown diamond producers have emerged using hydro and solar power, and they can provide third-party scientific proof of sustainability from organizations such as SCS Global, Levy said.

If sustainability is important to you when purchasing a lab-grown diamond, its imperative to research your retailer. If you are choosing a lab diamond from a jeweler, its important to question where they are sourcing the lab diamonds. Are they produced in the USA? Are there any carbon offsets made during the manufacturing? Where are the diamonds faceted and polished? Bario said.

A moissanite engagement ring sits atop a stack of rings.

A moissanite engagement ring sits atop a stack of rings.

Moissanite is another affordable alternative, but you can see the difference.

For people looking for affordable alternatives to mined diamonds, moissanite presents another good option  although this colorless stone can be discerned from a diamond with the naked eye. A 2-carat moissanite stone might be around $3,500, Bario noted, where a lab-grown diamond of the same carat weight might be around $6,000.

Similar to cultivated [lab-grown] diamonds, [moissanite] is more accessibly priced than mined natural diamonds. Moissanite is nearly as hard as diamonds, so stones can be worn every day and in a variety of sizes. The only visible difference might be the sparkle. If youre really paying attention, a large moissanite will cast a rainbow shine, while a natural diamond has a truer white sparkle, Bario said.

Although moissanite is most commonly created in a lab due to its rarity in the Earth, its much easier to manufacture than diamond, Cadzow-Collins noted. Other alternatives, such as white topaz and cubic zirconia, are softer with rounded facet edges and are generally less sparkly, she added.

Still, despite alternatives like lab-grown diamonds being more prevalent than ever, they still only account for 2% of the total diamond jewelry market, estimated Cadzow-Collins, though synthetic diamonds are expected to grow to about 5% over the next decade.

And in the engagement ring industry, Leifheit noted, natural diamonds are still the leading gemstone.

CORRECTION: A prior subheadline of this story incorrectly referred to lab-grown diamonds as simulated.

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WASHINGTON  The White House on Monday issued a veto threat for a House Republican-sponsored measure to address immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border, days before the end of the pandemic-era Title 42 is expected to prompt a surge of migrants.

A statement of administration policy said that while the Biden administration supports productive efforts to reform the country's immigration system, it opposes the Secure the Border Act of 2023, which it said would make "elements of our immigration system worse."

The legislation, it said, "does nothing to address the root causes of migration, reduces humanitarian protections, and restricts lawful pathways, which are critical alternatives to unlawful entry."

Republicans say the bill would address a crisis at the border by mandating that Customs and Border Protection hire and train 22,000 Border Patrol agents and develop a plan to upgrade existing technology to make sure agents are well-equipped and safe. It would also require the homeland security secretary to immediately resume construction of the border wall, a centerpiece of former President Donald Trump's administration. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., said the House would vote on it this month and called it "the strongest border security package that Congress has ever taken up."

The White House said that the bill would cut off nearly all access to humanitarian protections "in ways that are inconsistent with our Nations values and international obligations" and would make processing less efficient. It would do that by banning the use of a mobile application to process noncitizens and by restricting the Department of Homeland Security's parole authority, it said.

In addition, it said that the measure would reduce funding for essential programs such as one that provides funds to state and local governments.

"While we welcome Congress engagement on meaningful steps to address immigration and the challenges at the border, this bill would make things worse, not better. Because this bill does very little to actually increase border security while doing a great deal to trample on the Nations core values and international obligations, it should be rejected," the White House said in its statement.

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The statement also said that the administration believes a "successful border management strategy" should include enforcement at the border of illegal crossings, methods to deter and discourage illegal immigration while also providing legal pathways to ensure people are the border are not turned away "to face death or serious harm."

House Republicans unveiled the legislation at the end of April, and it was met with immediate criticism from congressional Democrats because they said it would go beyond the scope of border security and would punish all noncitizens, including legal residents, trafficking victims and refugees."

The veto threat comes as the U.S. prepares for the lifting Thursday of Title 42, the pandemic-era restriction that expelled migrants immediately without an asylum hearing. The policy will expire at the end of Thursday and the U.S. will revert to using national immigration laws and other tools that target asylum-seekers.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas visited the border last week ahead of the expected influx of migrants. "The border is not open, it has not been open and it will not be open subsequent to May 11," he said.

On Friday, Biden defended in an interview with MSNBC his decision to send 1,500 troops to the southern U.S. border ahead of the expected surge of migrants there. The president argued that a legislative response was needed and that it is up to Congress to pass an immigration bill.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with a delegation led by Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of the Expediency Discernment Council of Iran, in Beijing on Monday.

The two sides exchanged ideas on implementing an important consensus between the two heads of state, deepening exchanges and mutual learning on governance, and strengthening communication and coordination on international and regional affairs. 
Washington  Chatter on Capitol Hill about ethical standards at the Supreme Court has reached a fever pitch following the steady stream of revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas's relationship with a Republican real estate magnate.

But despite the growing chorus of voices calling for a binding code of conduct for the justices, the White House has remained on the sidelines of the debate, puzzling court watchers who believe input from President Biden could add to the momentum growing behind a legislative response.

"The Supreme Court is not popular right now in this country, and specifically among Democrats because of its recent rulings on abortion, guns, the environment and more," said Gabe Roth, executive director of Fix the Court, a group that advocates for more accountability and transparency at the Supreme Court. "So the idea that you wouldn't want to use those political headwinds and call for reform at the court seems a bit strange."

Democratic lawmakers have renewed their focus on the ethical rules governing the Supreme Court after ProPublica published a series of reports revealing that Thomas did not disclose lavish trips and a land deal with billionaire real estate developer Harlan Crow. The latest report, published Thursday, showed that Crow paid for two years of tuition at private schools for Thomas's grandnephew, which also was not shared by the justice on financial disclosure forms.

The findings regarding Thomas underscore the differences between lower court judges, who must abide by a binding code of conduct, and the nine members of the Supreme Court, who are not covered by the ethics rules.

"If we have an institution at the top of the most powerful branch standing apart in terms of their ethical responsibility, that's a real problem for the perpetuation, the continuation of our healthy democracy," Roth said.

And while he appreciates that the Biden administration weighs in on cases before the Supreme Court, the White House has a "responsibility to weigh in when other government institutions aren't keeping up their end of the bargain when it comes to maintaining public trust."

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Mr. Biden has not hesitated to criticize the Supreme Court for its recent decisions on abortion, the Second Amendment and climate change. But when pressed last week by CBS News on whether the president believes there should be a code of conduct for the Supreme Court, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre deferred to Congress.

"As it relates to the ethics, as it relates to that process, the Senate is clearly moving forward with their own Senate procedural process," she said Thursday. "I'm just going to leave it there for now."

The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing last Tuesday examining the Supreme Court's ethical standards, though Chief Justice John Roberts declined an invitation to answer questions from the panel in-person. Instead, he attached to a letter to Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin a three-page "Statement of Ethics Principles" signed by the nine justices, to which Roberts said they all adhere.

But Nancy Gertner, a former federal judge in Massachusetts, said Roberts' letter is an attempt to justify the status quo of the court policing itself, even as the latest disclosures demonstrate the need for change.

"This court is exercising the enormous power that the Supreme Court has  it has shown itself not to be reticent about overturning precedent, decades of precedent. It has shown itself not to be reticent about bending procedures to get cases before it that it wants to hear. It's shown itself not reticent to exercise the power the court has always had," she said.

"At the same time, there are concerns about ethical issues that are not illegitimate concerns and that have come up before, to be sure," Gertner continued. "The combination of those two factors it seems to me cries out for change, and yes, Biden should be someone who weighs in on this. The Congress should weigh in on this."

Several legislative proposals involving ethics rules for the Supreme Court have been introduced in the Senate, including a bipartisan proposal that would give the court one year to create and impose a code and require it to appoint an official to investigate alleged violations of the guidelines and federal law. It's unclear whether there is enough bipartisan agreement on any of the measures to clear Congress, and Republicans have dismissed the criticisms of Thomas as part of a broader attempt to delegitimize the Supreme Court and its 6-3 conservative majority.

In addition to the bills in Congress, a 33-member commission created by Mr. Biden  Gertner was one of the members  studied proposals to reform the court. The commission concluded in its final report that there would be benefits to a code of conduct for the justices, enacted either externally by Congress or internally by the court itself.

"A code of conduct for the Court would bring the Court into line with the lower federal courts and demonstrate its dedication to an ethical culture, beyond existing statements that the Justices voluntarily consult the Code," the commission's report read.

The panel unanimously voted to send the report of its findings to Mr. Biden in December 2021, but nearly 18 months later, he has yet to publicly address its findings.

"The president has seen the report," Jean-Pierre said. "We have said many times before he appreciated the bipartisan commission that came together and put the report together."

Bertrall Ross, a law professor at the University of Virginia who served on the commission, said it's "disappointing" the president has chosen not to act on the findings, particularly since they are relevant to the issues of the day.

"It's not only important, but imperative that the president be involved. This is a critical issue in terms of our republican form of government to have an independent court that is uncorrupt, credible and believed to be uncorrupt and credible by the American people," he told CBS News. "To the extent that the court's credibility is in question, that raises the cost for the entire structure of our government because we need a credible and legitimate court. And so, given the importance of the issue and the fact that the president is the lead institutional actor in our republican frame of government, he should be speaking out about this."

Ross also said it was a "wasted opportunity" that Mr. Biden has not implored the Supreme Court or Congress to enact rules to ensure the justices are acting in accordance with ethical standards and make sure the American people believe the court is acting credibly.

"Court expansion, term limits, those are hugely controversial, and the president doesn't really have the power to really enact those things. Those are kind of long-term thoughts on reform, and I understand not taking those up right now," he said. "We have a lot to deal with as a nation. The court is very important, but these types of reforms are going to require a long-term conversation among the American people. But the code of ethics for me is something that is quite immediate and quite imperative."

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PATERSON  In a city where activists often demand quick results, several community leaders who spoke during Thursday nights meeting with Attorney General Matthew Platkin expressed willingness to be patient with the states takeover of the Police Department.

Teddie Martinez, one of the leaders of the Paterson Healing Collective, seemed to set the tone for the event as the first speaker from the audience of almost 200 people at St. Luke Baptist Church.

I want us to give him a chance, Martinez said of Platkins intervention. If we dont give him a chance, were setting ourselves up for failure.

Its been a long time where we didnt have that relationship between community and police, added Martinez, whose group has gotten more than $2 million in funding from the state. Theyre coming in with a new slate, he said of the Attorney Generals Office.

More than an hour later, the Rev. Frederick LaGarde Jr. addressed Platkin directly in his comments.

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin during a meeting with community members at St. Luke Baptist Church in Paterson on Thursday, May 4, 2023.

Until you give us a reason not to believe what you say, were going to believe what you say, LaGarde said.

Platkin and the man he picked to take charge of the Paterson police, Isa Abbassi, repeatedly have said the states intervention represents a long-term commitment to change a longtime problem.

A lot of people want to give the AG an opportunity, said one of the citys most outspoken activists, Ernest Rucker, in an interview on Friday morning. Whats happening is a wait-and-see attitude about what the state is going to do to assist Paterson.

But the city has high expectations, Rucker added. It has to be transformational change, he said. "I dont think the community will accept anything different.

Earlier: Paterson residents tell state attorney general they dont trust citys Police Department

Jim Sullivan of the ACLU of New Jersey made a similar statement during Thursdays meeting. The worst thing we can do is simply put a Band-Aid on the systematic issues that led to Najee Seabrooks death, said Sullivan, the organizations deputy policy director.

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Platkin promised that would not happen.

Im not here to take small steps forward, the attorney general told the audience at the church.

During the session, which lasted nearly four hours, residents and activists restated their previous demands for police reform.

Barbara Martinez of the Healing Collective said authorities should stop sending a militant police force to respond to 911 calls involving people in emotional distress. Multiple speakers asserted that mental health professionals are better equipped than police officers to handle such cases.

Najee Seabrooks: The fatal police shooting of a Paterson activist and its aftermath

Others called for the creation of civilian complaint review boards to investigate allegations of misconduct by law enforcement officers. A bill that would give civilian boards subpoena powers has stalled in the New Jersey Legislature for years.

One of the sponsors of that bill, Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter, was in the audience on Thursday night. She said she felt proud to hear so much support for her plan. Its important that this comes from the residents, the assemblywoman said.

Paterson Black Lives Matter leader Zellie Thomas told Platkin during the meeting that he wants to see the state take a tougher stand in the citys Police Department.

We need terminations, Thomas asserted. We need accountability.

In his response, Platkin said he doesnt have the power to fire members of the Police Department.

One of the nights last speakers was Dellwanna Miller of the I Am My Sister group, which is composed of mothers who lost their children to gun violence in Paterson.

Some of us dont trust anything in a police uniform, Miller said. Give us a reason to support you, she told Platkin.

Joe Malinconico is editor of Paterson Press. Email: editor@patersonpress.com

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Paterson NJ police takeover: Activists will 'wait and see'
A local attorney advocating against private parking companies booting vehicles in Atlanta discussed options and potential consequences if you remove the device on your own.

Matt Wetherington said he has represented thousands of people booted in the city in the past decade.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

He said hes been pleading with the city council to reverse the ordinance that allows the practice.

He spoke about options after a video of two anonymous women in the city went viral online after posting a video of themselves removing the boots for drivers.

To see that report, click here.

If you are booted, you could pay the parking company to remove it. However, that can cost you up to $75 daily for every day the boot is on the vehicle.

Call your credit card company and dispute it, Wetherington said.

You could call the self-named Boot Girls, who offer their removal services for $50, or buy your key for $50 online.

But since neither you nor the Boot Girls own the boot, Atlanta Police said you could be cited with trespassing or theft of service.

You could be criminally charged.

TRENDING STORIES:

Whether its valid or not doesnt change the fact that it will cause you many more problems than $75, said Weathering. You could also be civilly charged by the property owner if its a big enough issue for them and they want to make an example of you.

He said the odds of going to jail are pretty low.

The odds of you getting hurt are much higher when dealing with someone with a financial interest in getting money from you, said Wetherington.

He says that if you previously got a boot, click here to join a class action lawsuit.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

WICKS REBUTS TECH INDUSTRY AB 886 ANALYSIS

Last week, we shared an analysis of Oakland Democratic Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks bill, AB 886, which is aimed at shoring up local California journalism outlets.

The analysis was from the tech industry-funded, center-left Chamber of Progress. It warned that the bill, which requires digital platforms such as Facebook and Google (both Chamber partners, according to its site) to pay California media outlets for news articles they share may have unintended consequences, such as funding misinformation outlets. That sentiment has been echoed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

Other entities opposing the bill include the California Chamber of Commerce and CalMatters.

Wicks was unimpressed with the Chamber of Progress analysis. In an interview with The Bee, she said that, unlike the chamber, her interest is in saving journalism.

The very people that theyre purporting to care about here ... are all at the table either supporting the bill or in conversations with me, Wicks said.

AB 886 is co-sponsored by the California News Publishers Association, and supported by a range of media outlets, from the San Francisco Chronicle to the Los Angeles Blade. The Sacramento Bee and parent company McClatchys four other California news outlets  The Fresno Bee, The Modesto Bee, the San Luis Obispo Tribune and the Merced Sun-Star  are members of the California News Publishers Association.

We are at a moment in history when credible information is critical and when, according to Pew Research, 81% of Americans rely on local media to keep them informed. When local newspapers shutter, civic engagement goes down,corruption goes up, and the ability to combat disinformation erodes further, the CNPA said in a statement of support for the bill.

The whole point of the bill is to ensure that we have healthy newsrooms, Wicks said.

Asked about the Chamber of Progress concern about the bill sending money to outlets like Fox News and others that have shared misinformation in the past, Wicks said that the bill  which has bipartisan support and has passed unanimously out of two committees thus far  doesnt favor liberal or conservative media outlets.

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Wicks said that the bottom line is, whether you are Democrat or Republican, all of us understand the need to have a free press.

CALIFORNIA UNVEILS HATE CRIME HOTLINE

Last week, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Civil Rights Department announced the creation of a new multilingual state hotline and website where people can make anonymous reports of hate crimes.

According to Newsoms office, hate crimes jumped almost 33% from 2020 to 2021.

Now, Californians have another tool to ensure that not only justice is served, but that individuals have access to additional resources to help deal with the lingering wounds that remain after such a horrendous crime occurs, Newsom said in a statement.

The CA vs Hate Resource Line and Network is available by calling 833-866-4283 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pacific Time, with more information available online here.

In the face of hate across the nation, we stand united in declaring: California is for everyone. I urge all Californians to know their rights and to take advantage of these important resources, said Civil Rights Director Kevin Kish in a statement.

Newsoms office said the hotline was the brainchild of Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi, D-Torrance, back in 2021. The program is intended to help communities including Asian Americans, Latinos, Black Americans, LGBTQ people, religious minorities and others.

The service is confidential and free.

POSTSCRIPT  Because of a pesky computer glitch, The Bees email inquiries to legislative staffers ended up getting bounced back last week. As a result, Senate President pro Tem Toni Atkins office never received our inquiry about Sen. Dave Mins DUI arrest.

Here is the statement Atkins put out after news of Mins arrest broke last week: Like Senator Min, were disappointed in his actions, but pleased that hes taken responsibility and apologized.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

This is absolutely sick. These kinds of disgusting acts have no place in California.

- Gov. Gavin Newsom, responding to a Sac Bee story about UC Santa Cruz students celebrating Hitlers birthday, via Twitter.

Best of The Bee:
REUTERS

Not only are some studios demanding that showrunners continue their non-writing work during the writers strikesome are also apparently finding ways not to pay them.

Last week, studios under the corporate umbrellas of Disney, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Discovery sent a letter to showrunners employed by the companies expressing that they were still expected to complete non-writing services. At a meeting of showrunners on Saturday, one writer-producer told Deadline that they are more united, more convinced than ever that there is no non-writing aspect of what we do. On Sunday, Deadline reported that certain studiosincluding Warner Bros. Television, Universal Studio Group, CBS Studios and Disney Television Studios 20th Television and ABC Signaturehad sent letters to showrunners suspending their overall deals.

David Simon, who created The Wire and wrote for HBO for decades afterward, was apparently one of them. On Monday, he tweeted a video from a WGA protest with the caption, On the day that HBO called to suspend my deal after 25 years of writing television for them, I was doing the write thing.

#WGAStrong. On the day that HBO called to suspend my deal after 25 years of writing television for them, I was doing the write thing. pic.twitter.com/WMWZbXAp41  David Simon (@AoDespair) May 8, 2023

Simon, who did not immediately respond to The Daily Beasts request for comment, wasnt the only prominent showrunner tweeting from the picket lines. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit showrunner Warren Leight noted that at least in one particular way, this years strike is already very different from the last one.

Strangest thing to happen today on the line at Silvercup East, Leight tweeted Monday. A guy on a motorbike stops, motions one of us over, and pulls out two test tubes, filled with perfectly rolled joints. Sativa. Good stuff. For you guys. Then he bikes off. That didn't happen in 2007.

Story continues

Strangest thing to happen today on the line at Silvercup East. A guy on a motorbike stops, motions one of us over, and pulls out two test tubes, filled with perfectly rolled joints. "Sativa. Good stuff. For you guys." Then he bikes off. That didn't happen in 2007.  WGA Strike Captain Warren Leight (@warrenleightTV) May 8, 2023

At another Silvercup location, Poker Face writer Christine Boylan tweeted out a photo of a lunch sent to strikers courtesy of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY).

Since the strike began, a number of prominent writers and showrunners have been speaking out about their working conditions and compensation. Abbott Elementary writer Brittany Nichols has discussed the broken residuals system, which she points out fails to compensate writers in proportion to their shows success. During a CNN interview last week, Adam Ruins Everything creator Adam Conover roasted David ZaslavCEO of CNN owner Warner Bros. Discoveryfor making the same amount that 10,000 writers are demanding collectively.

Other unions have also stepped in to bolster the WGA. On Monday, news broke that productions including Apple TVs Severance had shut down in response to the walkout; in a celebratory tweet, Conover thanked the Teamsters and IATSE for helping the effort by honoring the WGAs picket line. Countless actors, including Amanda Seyfried, Melanie Lynskey, Jennifer Coolidge, and more have also voiced their support.

If AI Is the Future of Hollywood, Were All F*cked

The theme of the day among Hollywood workers, it seems, is solidarity. On Monday, Simon retweeted Hollywood Teamsters chief Lindsay Doughtertys support for the WGA strike as well. If the #WGAStrong, #DGA,

#SAGAFTRA, #IATSE and #TEAMSTERS manage to stick together for

this cycle, this recession-proof, profitable and too-greedy industry can be transformed, he wrote.

That echoes another sentiment from writer and comedian Franchesca Ramsey, who tweeted last week that TV writers are not the reason teachers are underpaid, adding, teachers are not the reason nurses are underpaid, nurses arent the reason assembly line workers are also underpaid.

[We] are not in competition with each other, she wroteeveryone deserves a living wage.

tv writers are not the reason teachers are underpaid.



teachers are not the reason nurses are underpaid.



nurses arent the reason assembly line workers are also underpaid.



we are not in competition with each other. everyone deserves a living wage. #WritersStrike #wgastrong pic.twitter.com/zchy0YvxXG  Franchesca Ramsey (@chescaleigh) May 7, 2023

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A Central Kentucky man has been charged with murder after he led police on a chase that resulted in the death of a female passenger, according to court documents.

The pursuit took place Saturday in Garrard County. Court documents say 25-year-old Connor McGuire, of Richmond, was driving the motorcycle and took off at high speeds on Buckeye Road when Kentucky State Police troopers and other law enforcement officers tried to pull him over.

McGuire weaved in and out of traffic and drove at high speeds during the case, according to court documents. After making a right turn on Highway 1131, McGuire crashed the motorcycle and the pursuit ended.

As I came around a curve, I observed the motorcycle on the ground, sliding down the road, causing an accident, a police officer wrote in McGuires arrest citation.

A woman riding on the motorcycle suffered severe injuries from the crash and had to be flown to University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital, according to court documents. She later died at the hospital.

The Fayette County Coroners Office identified the woman as 27-year-old Shelby White of Wilmore. She died from traumatic injuries to the head, torso and other extremities, the coroners office said.

McGuire was found with a marijuana grinder and a marijuana smoke pipe at the scene of the crash, court documents say. He was also allegedly found with cocaine at the hospital.

After arriving at the hospital, the subject openly stated that he had cocaine in a fold-up dollar bill in his wallet, McGuires arrest citation read.

McGuire declined to take any field sobriety tests or submit any blood, court documents say. He faces a long list of charges, including murder, drug possession, wanton endangerment, fleeing/evading police, operating a vehicle under the influence, reckless driving and multiple traffic-related charges.
By Lisa Richwine and Dawn Chmielewski

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - (This May 8 story has been corrected to say that Yahlin Chang is the co-showrunner and executive producer of 'The Handmaid's Tale', and not co-executive producer and writer, in paragraph 2, and to change the description of 'American Born Chinese' in paragraph 13)

Writing for a new season of "The Handmaid's Tale" and a coming "Game of Thrones" prequel was halted as a nearly week-long strike by thousands of film and television writers rippled across Hollywood on Monday.

The writers of Emmy-winning Hulu drama "The Handmaid's Tale" had penned some early episodes for a new season ahead of filming that was supposed to start in late summer, said co-showrunner and executive producer Yahlin Chang.

Writing of the dystopian drama stopped when the Writers Guild of America (WGA) called a strike last week, Chang told Reuters on Monday.

A representative for Hulu declined to comment.

Also on Monday, "Game of Thrones" author George R.R. Martin said in a blog post that the writers' room for prequel series "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight" was "closed for the duration of the strike."

The WGA began a work stoppage on May 2 after failing to reach a new labor agreement with higher pay from Hollywood studios such as Netflix Inc and Walt Disney Co. The studios have said they made a "generous" offer to boost compensation.

Late-night talk shows immediately went dark, and some TV series and movies have followed. The final season of Netflix hit "Stranger Things" was paused. Marvel movie "Blade," starring Mahershala Ali, shut down just before filming was set to start.

"The Hedge Knight" was touted by Warner Bros executives last month as one of the marquee shows in development for Max, the new name for what had been HBO Max.

The series is set 100 years before the events of "Game of Thrones," a time when the Targaryen line holds the Iron Throne, and focuses on a young knight and his squire.

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Warner Bros has not announced a release date for "The Hedge Knight."

The second season of "House of the Dragon," another "Game of Thrones" prequel, began filming in April, Martin said, and will continue in London and Wales. All eight episodes already were written and revised, he said.

Martin also expressed his "unequivocal support" for the WGA.

"I hope the writers are given a fair deal as soon as possible," U.S. President Joe Biden said at a screening of the TV series "American Born Chinese" at the White House as part of a celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

It is unclear how long the strike will last. No new talks have been scheduled between the Guild and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), the group negotiating on behalf of studios.

"Maybe the AMPTP members will come to their senses tomorrow and offer some meaningful concessions, and the whole thing can be wrapped up next week," Martin said. "I would not bet the ranch on that, however ... I have never seen the Guild so united as it is now."

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Dawn Chmielewski, Dan Whitcomb in Los Angeles and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Editing by Mary Milliken, Aurora Ellis, Matthew Lewis and Cynthia Osterman)
There is perhaps no greater culinary creation than a greasy, crispy slice of bacon  except maybe when using this glorious-albeit-disgusting cured pig byproduct in something else delicious, like a cheesy bowl of spaghetti with eggs.

The dish may sound rather luxurious, buts its origin story traces its roots to something more of a garbage meal used to feed hungry soldiers during World War II.

Carbonara, as its known today, is a pasta dish including eggs, pecorino cheese, black pepper, and guanciale  an Italian cured meat product akin to bacon. The noodle of choice varies, but typically stringy varieties like spaghetti, tagliatelle, linguine or bucatini are used.

Its not certain exactly when Carbonara came to be, but according to Italian pasta archives  yes, these are real, hallowed texts  no official mention was made until the 1950s.

However, according to an Italian newspaper called La Stampa, the dish made its first appearance in 1944.

A translation reads: The initial ingredients, brought by the United States troops, were sure: eggs and bacon. And obviously the pasta, because the raw material is American, but the genius is Italian.

Rumor has it that when Allied troops moved through Rome, Carbonara was born.

An author and gastronomist named Marco Guarnaschelli Gotti surmised that when Rome was liberated, food shortages were extreme, and one of the few resources were military rations, distributed by allied troops; these included eggs (powdered) and bacon (smoked bacon), which some unknown genius would have had the idea of mixing while seasoning the pasta.

Popular theories suggest that a Bolognese chef named Renato Gualandi, who, according to some accounts was serving in the Italian Army at the time, was responsible for the dishs origin. Gualandi was reportedly commissioned by U.S. and British troops to cook for them during the liberation of Rome.

The recipe was born in Rome, almost by chance, again in 1944, when Gualandi was a fellow soldier and found himself having to fulfill the request of two generals, an American and an Englishman, who wanted to eat, Italian magazine Gambero Rosso recounts.

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In his memoir, Gualandi said the dish was developed to cook for mass amounts of soldiers using what was available in ration form.

According to one translation, Gualandi wrote, The Americans had fantastic bacon, delicious milk cream, cheese, and egg red [dried?] powder. I put it all together and served this pasta to the generals and officers for dinner. At the last moment, I decided to put black pepper which gave off an excellent flavor.

None of this, unfortunately, can be corroborated with any certainty. The New York Times did note that one food journalist wrote an account of the delicious Pasta alla Carbonara in 1954 in the Roman neighborhood of Trastevere.

However it was invented, Carbonara certainly blows most modern-day DFAC food out of the water.
China has invested billions of dollars to tap natural gas reserves in Central Asia

President Xi Jinping will host a two-day summit with the leaders of five Central Asian nations next week, Beijing said on Monday, as China moves to increase its influence in the region.

Leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are expected to attend the China-Central Asia Summit from May 18 to 19, said China's foreign ministry.

The summit in the historic city of Xi'an on the ancient Silk Road is the first of its kind since the establishment of formal relations 31 years ago, according to the ministry, and will focus on strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with Beijing.

China, the world's second-largest energy consumer, has invested billions of dollars to tap natural gas reserves in Central Asia.

Rail links connecting China to Europe criss-cross the region and are key to the success of Xi's trillion-dollar global infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative.

Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Monday that Xi would deliver a keynote speech during the summit, billed as China's first major diplomatic event of the year, and the leaders would jointly sign "important political documents".

"The heads of state will review the development of China-Central Asia relations and exchange views on China-Central Asia cooperation in various fields and on major international and regional issues of common concern," Wang told a regular briefing.

- 'Mutual support' -

Beijing adheres to a policy of "good-neighbourliness and friendship" with regard to Central Asia, Foreign Minister Qin Gang said during a meeting with his regional counterparts in Xi'an last month.

"All parties reiterated... firm mutual support on issues concerning each others' core interests, stern opposition to external interference in internal affairs, and resolute rejection of... force creating chaos and turbulence in Central Asia," according to a Chinese foreign ministry report on the meeting.

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The republics of Central Asia were part of the Soviet Union and have been dominated by Moscow since the mid-19th century.

But Russia's influence has been increasingly challenged since its invasion of Ukraine, with Beijing courting Moscow's traditional allies in the region.

In 2022, China's exports to Central Asia grew 60 percent year-on-year to $1.4 billion, according to data released by the Chinese ministry of commerce last month.

In September last year, Xi travelled to Kazakhstan on his first trip abroad since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

Countries, including Kazakhstan, that border China's northwestern region of Xinjiang have remained quiet over accusations of human rights violations by Beijing targeting Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.

prw-pfc-je/mtp
RBS Akademya also serves as an artists' residence

Pencil and rubber in hand Ibrahima Soumare takes his time as he carefully traces the outline of a handful of letters on a white piece of paper.

Dissatisfied, he tosses the effort away and starts again on today's exercise: Draw a piece of graffiti bearing the word "Top".

"It's not easy, especially for a newbie such as myself," says Ibrahima with a shy smile.

The 26-year-old Senegalese abandoned other studies to register at RBS Akademya, a graffiti school in the Dakar suburb of Guediawaye.

In the capital Dakar, graffiti forms part of the urban backdrop, especially along certain major highways through the capital and out into the suburbs where many youngsters have a craze for hip-hop.

Graffiti is considered an art form in Senegal, the works often bearing messages on issues such as politics, education, health and the environment.

The school, which opened its doors in December 2021, "wants to serve as a meeting place, a place to exchange, to share, one of savoir-faire," says Serigne Mansour Fall. Better known as Madzoo, he is one of a 25-strong founding collective behind the project.

The objective, says Madzoo, "is to bring to the table our heritage... to train young professionals" to be useful to society and enable people to "understand the challenges of their era".

- Recognition -

Long seen by many as "a pastime for the lazy that couldn't earn a man a crust", in Madzoo's words, graffiti is gaining increasing recognition. The founding of the RBS Akademya was a timely stroke of luck for fans seeking formal training.

Art tableaux and graffiti pieces jockey to show off their beauty and colour in the corridors of the two-storey building that houses the school.

One arresting painting of an old, white-bearded man draped in blue fabric draws the visitor's gaze, a small plant made up of shells sprouts from his shaven head.

"He symbolises Pan-Africanism," explains Madzoo, the artist of the work.

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The classroom, with a long work table and wall chart, is no less original. Large letters in a mix of pink and green decorate the wall at the entrance. It is difficult to make out what is written.

It is "Style", Soumare says. "I also had trouble reading it," he admits with a smile.

Today's course revolves around "concept art" -- how to express or create an idea -- and "colours", says Cherif Tahir Diop, aka Akonga, a graffiti artist, designer, and now teacher.

- Theory and practice -

"Here, we are not in a conventional school. Everything is done in a light spirit," he says against a soft backdrop of reggae music.

Like Ibrahima, Libasse Sarr, 18, and Maurice Diouf, 25, have given up study programmes to join the Akademya's ranks for six months of three classes a week mixing graffiti theory and practice.

They will leave with a certificate -- albeit one not recognised by Senegalese state authorities.

To register at the school costs 25,000 CFA francs (40 euros) and then 15,000 francs per month. The money goes towards buying material for lessons and the school's rental charges.

RBS Akademya, very active on social media such as Instagram and Facebook, also serves as an artists' residence.

According to Madzoo, some international artists stay there periodically to join exhibitions or share their experiences.

Introduced to graffiti art aged just seven by older youths in his district, the bespectacled Madzoo, 36, is today seen as one of Senegal's leading "street art" figures.

- Political pictures -

He describes himself as a Pan-Africanist "on the people's side" who happily airs his political views.

In March 2021, after serious rioting in Dakar following the arrest on rape allegations of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, one of Madzoo's murals bearing the signature of his collective was widely shared on social media.

It represented President Macky Sall, his blazer sleeve in French red, white and blue, shooting at point blank range at a youth holding a Senegalese flag.

The drawing was swiftly removed from public view and Madzoo says the authorities have since had him in their sights.

Though graffiti does not offer many outlets, Madzoo's students hope one day they will themselves know his success, but they "will have to be patient and strong", cautions Akonga.

Sarr, says he enrolled in the school out of "passion".

"I don't ask myself too many questions about the future, but I dream of travelling around the world to express my talent and improve my skills."

jd/cw/pvh/jj
JERUSALEM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The annual Europe Day reception scheduled for Tuesday in Tel Aviv, Israel, was canceled over the participation of Israel's ultranationalist National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

"Regrettably, this year we have decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the EU stands for," the EU Delegation to Israel said in a statement on Monday.

The Israeli government had planned to send Ben-Gvir, a pro-settler leader often accused of racism against Arabs, as its official representative to the event.

In response to the delegation's decision, Ben-Gvir issued a statement, accusing the EU of "practicing undiplomatic gagging."

The cancelation of the reception highlights concerns over the rise of far-right politics in Israel and its potential impact on the country's relations with international partners. 
An elderly woman stands outside a burning house after shelling in the town of Chasiv Yar in east Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Monday that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany was beaten in 1945, during an address commemorating the end of World War II.

His speech recorded at a war memorial in Kyiv comes one day ahead of Victory Day in Moscow, a Soviet war anniversary to be marked by an army parade through Red Square with security on high alert.

Ukrainian forces meanwhile said they had downed nearly three dozen Russian attack drones, spurring explosions and air raid sirens in the capital overnight.

"All the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated just as Nazism was defeated," Zelensky said in a video at Kyiv's World War II memorial and park.

"Just as we destroyed evil together then, we are destroying a similar evil together now," he added.

Zelensky was speaking on the anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender to allied forces on May 8, 1945, Victory in Europe Day.

He said he had submitted a bill to parliament to formally commemorate World War II in Ukraine also on May 8, which for years was marked on May 9 like in Russia and other ex-Soviet countries.

- 'Our victory' -

The move is just the latest in a series of steps Ukraine has taken in recent years to distance itself from Moscow, including by renaming streets and towns named after Soviet figures.

Zelensky said Ukraine would instead mark Europe Day on May 9, which promotes peace and unity on the continent.

The EU welcomed the move, and said European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen would visit Kyiv for talks with Zelensky on Tuesday.

It came as Brussels proposed a fresh round of sanctions on Russia. A spokesman said the measures would seek to tackle "the evasion of sanctions".

The Kremlin has leaned on World War II rhetoric to justify its invasion, saying in February last year it was launching the war to "de-Nazify" Ukraine.

But the Ukraine leader said the Kremlin was responsible for "aggression and annexation, occupation and deportation," as well as "mass murder and torture".

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"All of this will be answered by our victory -- the victory of Ukraine and the free world."

- Fresh strikes -

The address came hours after Ukrainian forces said they had downed 35 drones launched by Russia in an attack that left five people wounded in Kyiv.

AFP journalists on the scene after the attack saw a gutted apartment damaged by debris in the Svyatoshynsky district of the capital.

Vadym, a 47-year-old resident of the neighbourhood, said he heard air raid sirens and the shaking of his neighbouring building when the debris hit.

"We've been at war for a year. It's always scary. Not as scary as on the front line. But of course it's scary. Terrible for children," he told AFP.

He said his own children had just arrived for a visit hours before the attack.

In the southern region of Odessa, officials said a Russian strike had hit a warehouse, leaving one dead and several injured.

In the eastern Donetsk region, Ukraine said Russian forces had deployed phosphorus munitions in Bakhmut, the epicentre of fighting for several months.

Victory Day, a key event on the Russian political calendar under President Vladimir Putin, is going ahead despite a series of recent sabotage attacks in the country.

Events in several Russian cities have been cancelled over security concerns, as well as in hubs controlled by Russian forces on the annexed Crimean peninsula.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced on Monday he would visit Moscow for Victory Day events despite growing frustration at home over Russia's role in Yerevan's standoff with historic rival Azerbaijan.

bur/lcm
President Volodymyr Zelensky has submitted a draft law to the Ukrainian parliament proposing that May 8 be the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War.

"This is pure history, without ideological admixtures. And this is the history of our people, our allies, the entire free world. Today we return it to our state," Zelensky said in his video address on May 8.

Most European nations celebrate Victory in Europe Day on May 8 to mark the anniversary of Germany's unconditional surrender coming into force. Russia and some former Soviet countries celebrate Victory Day on May 9, using the term Great Patriotic War.

Ukraine also celebrated Victory Day on May 9 until 2015, when then-president Petro Poroshenko changed its name to the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II. He designated May 8 as the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation. May 8 was a working day, and May 9 remained a public holiday.

"We will never forget the contribution of the Ukrainian people to the victory over Nazism. And we will not allow lies as if the victory in that war could happen without the participation of any country or nation," Zelensky said.

Ukrainian intelligence warns of Victory Day provocations by Russia Moscow might stage false-flag attacks against Russian and Belarusian populations around May 9, Ukraines General Intelligence Directorate chief Andrii Usov, said at a briefing on May 7. Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

"As then we destroyed evil together, now we are destroying a similar evil together Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction. And just as then we relied on the joint strength of free nations, today we fight against evil together with the free world, together with free Europe. And we will prevail!"

Zelensky has also signed a decree to make May 9 the Europe Day, held annually in the EU member countries to celebrate "peace and unity in Europe."

Story continues

This day marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration signing in 1950, which "was an ambitious plan to secure long-term peace in post-war Europe that is considered the beginning of what is now the European Union."

"Now, just like 80 years ago, we rely on the joint strength of free peoples and know that together we will always be part of a free Europe that will not submit to evil," Ukraine's president added.

"And together with all of free Europe, we will celebrate Europe Day on May 9 in Ukraine. A united Europe, which should be and will be based on peace. Our Europe, which Ukraine has always been, is and will be a part of."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Dear people!

On May 8, Ukraine and the free world remember six terrible years in the history of mankind. From 1939 to 1945... The years that took the lives of millions of people, including 8 million Ukrainians. The years of occupation and atrocities, bloody battles and bombings, blockades and mass executions, the Holocaust. All the evil that Nazism brought to the world, brought to our land.

Different nations opposed evil in unity, as allies of the anti-Hitler coalition. The nations of Europe and America... Asia, Australia, Africa  each has its own history of fighting in that war, but the common history of victory.

Read also: Fascism returns. Zazi Russia takes on the bloody mantle of Nazi Germany

It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis. The world admires all those who were protecting and protected life. Who threw down the Nazi flags on the liberated territory and who opened the gates of the concentration camps. Who restored freedom to the nations, who destroyed and condemned Nazi evil. It was on May 8, 1945, that the act of unconditional surrender of the Wehrmacht entered into force. It is on May 8 that the world honors the memory of all those, whose lives were taken by that war. It is pure history, without ideological admixtures.

And it is the history of our people, our allies, the entire free world. Today, we are returning it to our state.

Today, I am submitting a bill to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine proposing that May 8 be the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War of 1939-1945.

We will never forget the contribution of the Ukrainian people to the victory over Nazism. And we will not allow anyone to erase the role of Ukrainians in this victory, our people, that generation whose memory we cherish in almost every family.

We will not allow the joint victory of the nations of the anti-Hitler coalition to be appropriated and we will not allow lies as if the victory could have taken place without the participation of any country or nation.

Story continues

We destroyed evil together! In the same way as we are now opposing a similar evil together.

Remembering the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers now  the descendants of those who secured the victory  the surrender of Nazism that day, on May 8, 1945.

And we are proud of the heroism of the Ukrainian people! Then and now.

Unfortunately, evil has returned. Like back then evil rushed to our cities and villages, so it is doing now, like back then it killed our people, so it is doing it now. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

Read also: Ukraines parliament officially declares Russian regime as Rashist, or Russian-Fascist

And like in the Second World War, we are not alone against evil. We fight against it together in the same way  together with the entire free world. With the states and people who created a joint victory at that time. Who, remembering the terrible years of that war, do not say "We can do it again!" but defend the meaning of the words "Never again!" Who did not betray the memory of their heroes and preserve the power of our common values  human life and freedom, equality and dignity, and a world without xenophobia and anti-Semitism, without racism and intolerance, without ideologies of hatred.

We fought then and we fight now so that no one ever again enslaves other nations and destroys other countries. And all those old evils that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated just as Nazism was defeated.

This enemy once again put aggression and annexation, occupation and deportation, mass murder, and torture, bombing cities and burning villages up against our ideals. Our victory will be the answer to all this! The victory of Ukraine and the free world. Liberation of our lands. The return of our people. Protecting our values. And inevitably  justice, inevitably  justice against the ruscists' ideology of hatred.

Dear Ukrainians!

Now, as 80 years ago, Ukraine is fighting against total evil. Now, just like 80 years ago, Ukraine is fighting for the future  its own and that of the whole of Europe, the whole free world. Now, as 80 years ago, we rely on the common strength of free nations and know that together with them we will always be part of a free Europe that will not submit to evil. And together with all of free Europe, we will celebrate Europe Day on May 9 in Ukraine. A united Europe, the basis of which should be and will be peace. Our Europe, which Ukraine has always been, is, and will be a part of.

Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat ruscism (Russian fascism).

Read also: Terror bombing from Hitler to Putin

This will be the Day of Europe, which has supported Ukrainians for all nine years of aggression and 439 days of the full-scale invasion. This will be the Day of Europe, which helps us fight in all directions: on the battlefield with weapons and on the diplomatic front  with determination, against missile terror and the and the winter blackout, in the economy and on the legal front. This will be the Day of Europe  ourally. Which gives shelter to Ukrainian women and children. Which does not encroach on our sovereignty and does not call into question our right to choose our own national path. Which never calls Ukraine a "fictional" or "artificial" entity. And which gives us its weapons so that we can defend ourselves and it  our Europe!

Many years ago, the tradition of celebrating Europe Day was established on our continent to mark peace and unity achieved. Today, unity on our continent brings us closer to celebrating the first day of our peace.

An honest memory of the past always strengthens faith in the future. Today, paying tribute to the most important victory of the 20th century, we are all waiting and approaching a new great day  a new victory. Our victory. Victory Day of Ukraine. Of course, joint. Which we will gain together with everyone who is helping us now.

We will remember every state and every nation that joined us in the struggle for freedom. We will never say that the victory could have happened without any of them. It will be a joint success, but I am sure that the world will call this day the same  Victory Day of Ukraine. The day when we expel the last occupier from our land. The day when we liberate all our cities and villages. The day when the curfew throughout Ukraine is replaced by the first minute of peace. When we can forget about the "Air Alarm" application. When the soldiers return to their families, the emigrants return to their homes. When we can safely travel through our country and discover its beauty again and again. When we meet guests of Ukraine, friends of Ukraine at our airports in Boryspil, Simferopol, and our other cities. In the free cities of free Ukraine!

We will not lose what we have gained, we will return everything captured by the enemy, we will rebuild what was destroyed and together we will protect it all.

We do not yet know the date of our victory, but we know that it will be a holiday for all of Ukraine, for all of Europe, for the entire free world. There will be a holiday for all our heroes  our defenders, all our people who fight and work for our victory, all our allies and partners who strive for our victory as much as we do.

And our victory will have a symbol  a blue-yellow ribbon, our Ukrainian flag. Wherever it should rightfully be. Wherever our national colors will be also a symbol of respect for our people.

It should be like this, and it will be.

We remember the past, fight today, and do not stop, gaining victory.

Eternal memory to all those who died in the Second World War! Glory to each and every one who fought against Nazism and won!

Glory to all who fight for Ukraine! Glory to all our heroes of different times, to whom we equally owe our lives!

Glory to Ukraine!

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
On Monday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.

Source: President's website

Details: The meeting was attended by Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence; Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal; Oleksii Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council; commanders of troops and operational fronts, and Andrii Yermak, Head of the Presidential Office. The meeting was also joined by members of the government, heads of security and law enforcement agencies.

It is reported that the parties heard information about the consequences of recent air attacks by Russian troops and ways to counteract them, and discussed opportunities to enhance the protection of the population and civilian and critical infrastructure.

Reports on the operational situation at the front and the plans of the occupiers for the near future were also heard. The commanders of the operational and strategic groups of troops reported on the course of hostilities in the frontline areas within the responsibility of Khortytsia, Tavriia, Odesa and Pivnich (North) operational and strategic groups of troops.

The parties analysed the state of weapons and ammunition supply for the units of the Ukrainian Defence Forces, as well as the state of training, manning and equipment provision in the newly created brigades.

A separate report was heard on the supply of artillery ammunition and missiles of all types for the needs of the Ukrainian army this year.

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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposes that the Verkhovna Rada [Ukrainian Parliament] establish 8 May as the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945) in Ukraine, while 9 May should be marked not as Victory Day but as Europe Day.

Source: Zelenskyys speech on the occasion of the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945)

Quote: "On 8 May, Ukraine and the free world remember six terrible years in the history of mankind. From 1939 to 1945... The years that took the lives of millions of people, including eight million Ukrainians. The years of occupation and atrocities, bloody battles and bombings, blockades and mass executions, the Holocaust. All the evil that Nazism brought to the world, brought to our land.

Different nations opposed evil in unity, as allies of the anti-Hitler coalition. The nations of Europe and America... Asia, Australia, Africa  each has its own history of fighting in that war, but the common history of victory."

Details: Zelenskyy has noted that it is on 8 May that the greatness of the victory over Nazism is remembered by most of the world's peoples. It was on 8 May 1945 that the act of unconditional surrender of the Wehrmacht came into force. And it is on 8 May that the world honours the memory of all those whose lives were taken by that war.

Quote: "It is pure history, without ideological admixtures. And it is the history of our people, our allies, the entire free world. Today, we are returning it to our state.

Today, I am submitting a bill to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine proposing that 8 May be the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II (1939-1945)."

Details: Zelenskyy said that Ukrainians will never forget their nation's contribution to the victory over Nazism and will not allow anyone to "erase the role of Ukrainians in this victory, our people, that generation whose memory we cherish in almost every family."

Story continues

"We will not allow the joint victory of the nations of the anti-Hitler coalition to be appropriated and we will not allow lies as if the victory could have taken place without the participation of any country or nation," the president said.

We destroyed evil together! In the same way as we are now opposing a similar evil together. Remembering the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers now  the descendants of those who secured the victory  the surrender of Nazism that day, on 8 May 1945. And we are proud of the heroism of the Ukrainian people! Then and now," Zelenskyy stressed.

Quote: "Now, as 80 years ago, Ukraine is fighting against total evil. Now, just like 80 years ago, Ukraine is fighting for the future  its own and that of the whole of Europe, the whole free world. Now, as 80 years ago, we rely on the common strength of free nations and know that together with them we will always be part of a free Europe that will not submit to evil.

And together with all of free Europe, we will celebrate Europe Day on May 9 in Ukraine. A united Europe, the basis of which should be and will be peace. Our Europe, which Ukraine has always been, is, and will be a part of.

Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, 9 May, we will commemorate our historic unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat ruscism."

Background:

In March 2015, President Petro Poroshenko issued a decree designating 8 May as the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation in Ukraine, but 9 May remained the Day of Victory over Nazism in World War II. 8 May was a working day and 9 May remained a public holiday.

Poroshenko then explained this by his desire to unite Ukraine and stated: "When we hear the president of a neighbouring country answer the provocateur's question that the victory could have happened without Ukrainians, it is a split in the general anti-fascist movement, a mockery of the memory of Ukrainians who liberated not only Ukraine but the whole of Europe."

On 2 May 2023, after 9 years of Russia's hybrid war against Ukraine and more than a year of full-scale war, the Verkhovna Rada legislatively recognised the political regime in Russia as "ruscism" and condemned it.

Russia celebrates Victory Day in the "Great Patriotic War" on 9 May.

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Zelensky addressed the Ukrainians

Zelenskyy made the announcement about the new holiday on the occasion of the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War of 1939-1945.

"Today I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will honor our historical unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat rascism (Russian fascism)," the Ukrainian leader said.

He said that from now on, Ukraine will celebrate Europe Day, thanking the partners who have been supporting Ukrainians throughout the nine years of Russian aggression in Crimea and Donbas, as well as 439 days of full-scale invasion.

"This will be the Day of Europe, which helps us fight in all (spheres): on the battlefield with weapons, on the diplomatic front with determination, against missile terror and winter blackout, in the economy and on the legal front," Zelenskyy said.

This will be the Day of Europe  our ally. The one that never calls Ukraine a fictional or artificial entity. And which gives us its weapons so that we can defend ourselves and it  our Europe.

He emphasized that unity on the European continent "brings us closer to celebrating the first day of our peace."

Read also: Fascism returns. Zazi Russia takes on the bloody mantle of Nazi Germany

"An honest memory of the past always strengthens faith in the future," Zelenskyy said.Today, as we pay tribute to the most important victory of the twentieth century, we are all waiting for and bringing closer a new great day  a new victory. Our victory. The day of Ukraine's victory, of course, a common one. Which we will (win) together with everyone who is helping us now. We will remember every state and every nation that stood with using the fight for freedom. We will never say that the victory could have happened without one of them. It will be a common success, but I am confident that the world will call this day the same  Ukraine's Victory Day.

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The Ukrainian leader also emphasized that he would submit a bill to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine that would establish May 8 as the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II of 1939-1945.

"We will never forget the contribution of the Ukrainian people to the victory over Nazism," the president said.And we will not allow anyone to erase the role of Ukrainians in this victory, our people of that generation, whose memory is kept in almost every family.

On May 8, 1945, the German Instrument of Surrender came into force, which was signed the day before  on May 7 at 2:41 am CET in the French city of Reims.

Read also: Berlin court permits partial use of Russian flags on May 9

Since then, May 8 has been celebrated worldwide as Victory Day in Europe (V-E Day), as Germany's capitulation ended the war on the continent.

And since 2005, the world has also celebrated May 8-9 as the Days of Remembrance and Reconciliation, as a tribute to all the victims of World War II.

Ukraine joined this tradition in 2015, when then-President Petro Poroshenko signed a decree.

The Soviet Union and the countries of the Eastern Bloc celebrated May 9 as Victory Day due to it taking a day for news of the Nazi surrender to reach Moscow.

Russia also still refers to the Second World War as the Great Patriotic War of 1941-195 to obscure its role as an ally of Nazi Germany from 1939 to 1941 and to diminish the role played by the Western allies, primarily the UK and the United States, in defeating Nazi Germany.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the Air Forces and other branches of the Armed Forces of Ukraine that protect the sky; according to him, the partners see the effectiveness of the weapons transferred to Ukraine.

Source: Zelenskyy's evening address

Quote from Zelenskyy: "Our defenders of the sky  the Air Force and other branches of troops involved in the defense against terrorists' missiles and Shaheds  are doing a great job these days! They inspire not only us. Our partners see what Ukrainians are capable of, what the weapons we have been given are capable of in our hands, and how effective we are when we act together for the sake of our common security."

Details: According to him, the success of Ukrainians in defence against Russian aggression is an antidote to other aggressions. He stressed that the world should see that a free nation is able to protect freedom from invaders.

"If we can do it, then others can do it. If they act as boldly, as accurately, and in the same unity with other free nations. I am grateful to each of our warriors who provides Ukraine with this result! I am grateful to every partner who helps our warriors with the weapons they need to be effective!" said the President.

At the same time, he separately noted the work of the soldiers of the 96th Kyiv Air Defence Missile Brigade.

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Kyiv  All of Ukraine was put under an air raid alert Monday morning as Vladimir Putin's military stepped up attacks on the day when the world marks the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked Victory in Europe Day with a vow that "all the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated, just as Nazism was defeated."

As he did so, the mayor of Kyiv said Ukraine's capital had come under the most intense aerial assault since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Tracer fire streaked across Kyiv's skyline overnight before a loud bang, as Ukraine's air defenses scored a direct hit, intercepting an incoming Russian explosive drone. Authorities said a few people were wounded by falling shrapnel, but there were no immediate reports of deaths from the attack on Kyiv.

People observe damage after an overnight attack by Russian Iranian-made explosive drones in Kyiv, Ukraine, May 8, 2023. / Credit: Oleksii Chumachenko/Anadolu Agency/Getty

Authorities said every one of the 35 Iranian-made drones flown at Kyiv overnight was intercepted.

With its ground war largely stalled amid apparent ammunition shortages and internal divisions, Russia has gone on the attack ahead of Ukraine's long-anticipated spring counteroffensive, unleashing missiles on cities across the country for more than a week, including the latest barrage overnight.

Little more than one year ago, few people believed Ukraine's vastly outnumbered forces would manage to hold out for even a month against Russia.



But now, the army of underdogs  bolstered by billions of dollars worth of military hardware from the U.S. and other partners  is gearing up for a battle that could prove pivotal in the course of the war.



Training at a quarry 15 miles from the front line, CBS News met new Ukrainian recruits who, despite a complete lack of military experience, were being trained on every weapon in the country's arsenal, for whatever the next battle may bring.



One soldier at the training ground, callsign "Spartacus," has been fighting the Russians since the first invaded his country in 2014.



He said he was training the recruits on both old Soviet weapons and modern U.S. and European-made equipment.

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"Zhuk," a high school history teacher who was training for the new chapter in his life as a soldier, told CBS News his goal was to "come back home with the victory, soon."

He said he was eager for himself and his fellow Ukrainians to be able to "return to the normal life that we all have lost."

In Russia, authorities were preparing for their annual "Victory Day" celebrations on Tuesday. But this year's events, which celebrate the then-Soviet Union's vital role in helping defeat Nazi Germany, were being scaled-back, with Russian officials warning of the threat of Ukrainian attacks.

As both sides prepare for the battle ahead, Ukraine's troops are determined to win this war before the end of the year. Whatever victory looks like.

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The Crawford County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve the countys Fiscal Year 2024 budget at its April 18 meeting.

The overall property tax levy for county residents who live in a town or city is $5.01751 per $1,000 of taxable valuation, which is down $.00029 from the previous year. For rural residents, the property tax levy also decreased slightly to $9.06751 per $1,000 of taxable valuation.

A non-rural resident in a home valued at $100,000 would pay approximately $501 in taxes. A rural resident would pay $906.

The budget features revenues of $23,475,315 and expenditures of $25,954,410.

A portion of those expenditures goes toward the continuing roads and bridges repair work throughout the county.

At its April 25 meeting, the Board of Supervisors voted to approve a federal aid agreement for $1 million that will be used to replace a bridge along County Road E16 in Soldier Township, over the Soldier River Tributary.

The deck condition is very poor on that bridge, said county engineer Paul Assman. Weve done a number of patches on it. The structure is sound  its capable of carrying legal loads  but the deck is deteriorating.

Calhoun-Burns and Associates is the design consultant for the bridge, and the county will put the project out for bid in January 2024.

The federal aid funds will be distributed through the Iowa Department of Transportation, and the county is also receiving $160,000 from the Hungry Canyons Alliance for the project.

The countys secondary roads department is currently working on a bridge along County Road L51, between Ricketts and Charter Oak. That $1.25 million project began in late February, and Assman said it should be finished by mid-summer.

We got 1,200 miles of road, so theres always something going on, Assman said. Weve had a pretty aggressive bridge program, paving program, grading program. We do a lot of work in the county every year.
Bluffs area motorcyclists gathered at the Dock Bar and Grill Saturday morning to take part in the Ride to Remember, an effort to raise money and awareness to end Alzheimers disease.

Although the rain put a bit of a damper on the ride itself  riders were put on hold for a few hours waiting for the rain to lift  The Dock had plenty going on as the organizers for the ride had bingo games and raffles going on before the start of the ride.

Jessica Duncan, one of the organizers of the event, said the bingo would travel to every stop and the lucky person with the best bingo card stood to win a 58-inch television, donated by New Image Construction, or a Blackstone flat iron grill, donated by Home Depot.

Duncan  who represented the Iowa Chapter of the Alzheimers Association, which was one of the events organizers  said that the ride route went from the Dock to first stop, the Sugar Makery in Glenwood, then on to Silos in Treynor, Buck Snort in Neola and ended at Sugars in Council Bluffs.

This is an effort to honor those who have Alzheimers and those people who are family members and caregivers, Duncan said. This is a ride for those who cant ride.

As of this year, 6.7 million adults over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with the disease and more than 11 million unpaid caregivers are effected by it. It is a disease that strikes everyone around the one diagnosed, but friends and families have to live with it, too.

Nodding their heads in agreement were Stephanie Kenealy, sales director at Primrose Retirement Community in Council Bluffs, and Tiffany Eggett, executive director of Primrose, both of whom helped organize the Ride to Remember.

Eggett said that 66,000 Iowans over the age of 65 suffer from Alzheimers. Finding help for the caregivers as well as the those with the disease is a multi-dimensional problem.

The heartache felt by family members and the heartache felt by those who are losing that precious commodity, memory, Eggett said. Its so hard on everyone. Its like the whole community is needed in this fight against the disease.

Another organizer was volunteer McKenna Murphy of the EveryStep Hospice in Council Bluffs, who had a bit of an unusual story. She was part of a hospice team that cared for Duncans father, who has Alzheimers and who was a graduate of EveryStep.

Jessicas father was admitted to hospice and in time we got him stable, Eggett said. And we discharged him to a long-term facility, where he is now.

For those who know, the ravages of this disease can be catastrophic, and it is through organizations like the Alzheimers Association, EveryStep Hospice and Primrose that families and caregivers alike can find some hope as they confront this disease.

The Ride to Remember raised more than $700. Duncan said that five additional fundraisers will be held ahead of the Walk to End Alzheimers, set for Sept. 23 at Iowa Western Community College.
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu met with Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi, chief of the naval staff of the Pakistan Navy, in Beijing on Monday.

Li said the relations between the militaries of the two countries are an important part of China-Pakistan relations, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including the two navies, has achieved good results.

Li said the militaries of the two countries should expand new exchange areas, create new cooperation highlights, and work together to safeguard the security interests of both countries and the region.

Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi said the Pakistani Navy is willing to establish a closer cooperation mechanism with the Chinese Navy, further deepen pragmatic exchanges and cooperation, and jointly safeguard regional security and stability. 
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The American Jewish Committee (AJC) expressed support for Moroccos territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara while calling for other members of the international community to follow suit.

The remarks were published on the official twitter account of the AJC following a visit by a delegation, led by its chief policy officer Jason Issaacson to the country, including a trip to the Sahara provinces.

In Dakhla, one of the main Sahara coastal cities, Isaacson met local leaders to whom he reiterated the support of his organization to Moroccos efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity.

The US Committee declared its recognition of Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara and its support for the autonomy plan in 2020, following a trilateral deal that also marked the resumption of ties between Morocco and Israel.

Since then, Morocco has gathered support for its national cause with major European powers such as Spain and Germany supporting the autonomy plan under the Kingdoms sovereignty.

The Sahara is now home to consulates representing nearly half of African states and many Arab and Caribbean countries reflecting a growing momentum in favor of Moroccos Sahara stance.
Arab foreign ministers have decided, on Sunday in Cairo, to allow Syria to retake its seat at the Arab League after its membership was suspended following the violent crackdown on pro-democracy protesters.

The decision was made after several months of deliberations before agreeing on Syrias readmission under some conditions. The move comes within the geostrategic changes triggered by the China-brokered agreement between Riyadh and Teheran, the war in Ukraine, rapprochement between Turkey and Egypt

Moroccan foreign minister Nasser, who took part in the Arab League emergency meeting on Syria, said the decision should lead to political process resulting in a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the crisis in this country.

He voiced Moroccos support to the efforts made in this regard by Saudi Arabia, saying the Arab league move will make the upcoming Arab summit scheduled in Jeddah a real opportunity for the reunification of Arab ranks.

Bourita recalled the historical ties between Morocco and Syria and affirmed that King Mohammed VI follows closely the Syria crisis and its impacts on countries of the region.

He urged the Arab League to go beyond readmission of Syria, using its leverage for peace & security in a bid to become one of the faithful partners of Syria for development and prosperity.

For the minister, the Arab league, which is committed to the principle of preserving Syrias sovereignty, territorial integrity, the cohesion of its society ( ), should be engaged in addressing other urgent issues for the Syrians themselves and other countries, such as the safe return of refugees, delivery of humanitarian and medical aid, Syrian national reconciliation and the fight against terrorism.

This makes the Arab move in line with the efforts of the UN Special Envoy to Syria to achieve a breakthrough in this crisis with the help of the Syrians themselves, while taking into account the interest of the Syrian people, underlined Mr. Bourita.

Washington has said it will not normalize relations with the Assad regime until there is authentic, UN-facilitated political progress in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254, the only viable solution to ending the war.
Morocco and the United Nations will celebrate International Argan Day on May 10 at the United Nations headquarters in New York, under the theme Local socio-economic development and sustainability of the Argan ecosystem.

Since its proclamation by the UN General Assembly in March 2021, May 10 of each year has been celebrated as International Argan Tree Day, the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement.

This celebration highlights Moroccos efforts to promote the argan tree as an endemic tree of the Kingdom and as intangible cultural heritage of humanity and ancestral source of sustainable and resilient development.

It also aims to highlight the role of the argan tree in strengthening community resilience, its contribution to food security (SDG 2), adaptation to climate change (SDG 13), water stress (SDG6), and its importance in empowering rural women (SDG 5), through the support and promotion of agricultural cooperatives and organizations (SDG8).

Indeed, Morocco, aware of the environmental issues and the challenges facing the argan ecosystem, is committed to developing and maintaining community practices for sustainable management, in a context of water stress and climate change. Through this international day celebrated each year by the United Nations, the Kingdom shares its knowledge to strengthen the resilience of this emblematic ecosystem, where the Argan tree is a symbol of biodiversity and carries within it know-how and useful experiences for rebuilding a balance between human beings and nature.

The kick-off of the celebrations of this day will be given this year from the headquarters of the United Nations in New York, under the chairmanship of the Minister of Agriculture Mohamed Sadiki.

This celebration will also be marked by the organization, for two weeks, of an artistic and photographic exhibition on the Argan tree at United Nations Headquarters, as well as a reception in honor of the community of Ambassadors and officials of the United Nations system, to taste the products of the Argan and discover the offer of the local Moroccan cooperatives.

The event will be attended by several UN senior officials, including the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, the President of the United Nations General Assembly, as well as representatives of UNESCO, WHO, FAO, UN Women, and the Green Climate Fund.

Several events at the national level will also celebrate the International Day of the Argan tree: reforestation actions, debates, activities of environmental clubs in schools

To crown these celebrations, the second edition of the International Argan Tree Fair will be organized in Agadir from May 17 to 21, and will be an opportunity to highlight the dynamics of the Argan tree sector and the progress of the various institutions of the Ministry of Agriculture for the preservation and sustainable development of the Arganeraie ecosystem.
Morocco has called on the international community to intensify efforts to support the process of peace and stability in Sudan, to preserve its territorial integrity and national sovereignty and avoid any security disruption in the region.

The call was launched by Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita during the emergency ministerial meeting of the Council of the Arab League held Sunday in cairo. Bourita stressed that the Kingdom of Morocco regrets and is concerned about the security situation in Sudan and the loss of human life, property, and infrastructure.

Morocco, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, expresses its total solidarity with brotherly Sudan in these difficult circumstances and remains ready to provide all necessary and possible support to help it overcome the crisis, he said, recalling that the Kingdom, which has established strong fraternal relations with the Republic of Sudan, is convinced that the wisdom and lucidity of the Sudanese is likely to bring them back to dialogue and reach a consensus that will usher in a political path which will enable them to maintain the security and stability of their country and meet their development needs.

The Minister also expressed Moroccos support for the initiatives and measures taken by the Arab League, including the sending of humanitarian aid, and welcomed the efforts undertaken by other countries and some international organizations to bring the parties together and create the appropriate conditions to start a constructive dialogue.

Bourita also stressed the need to ensure that the solution to the ongoing crisis in this country is Sudanese and far from any external interference, to make it easy to achieve a peaceful and sustainable settlement, in an atmosphere of serenity and national pride.
A ReAwakening America event in 2022. Photo: Carolyn Kaster/AP

One of the big story lines in the 2024 Republican presidential-nomination contest is the competition for support from politically active conservative white Evangelicals, whose overwhelming support helped put Donald Trump in the White House. The battle is particularly acute in Iowa, where they make up close to two-thirds of the Republicans who will make someone the 2024 front-runner.

Trump actually lost Iowa Evangelicals (and the Iowa caucuses) to Ted Cruz in 2016, but won an astonishing 81 percent of self-identified white Evangelicals nationally in the 2016 general election and an only slightly less overwhelming 76 percent in 2020. So some of his 2024 rivals are praying for him to lose traction in born-again pews and pulpits.

These rivals have two potential points of leverage in seeking Evangelical defections from Trump: first, the fury he provoked among some Christian right leaders when he cited extremism on the abortion issue as a big factor in his partys underwhelming 2022 midterm results; and second, the long-standing complaint that the heathenish 45th president is not exactly a believer himself, or even religiously literate. His former vice-president, Mike Pence, has been implicitly banging both drums: He is famously a devout Evangelical with long-standing involvement in Christian right political causes, and hes also quickly signed onto the anti-abortion movements 2024 litmus test of support for a national abortion ban. South Carolina senator Tim Scott appears to be going down the same road, thumping Bibles regularly as part of his Faith in America road show and at least flirting with an extremist position on abortion well to Trumps right.

But the connection between Trump and conservative Evangelicals may be stronger than can be measured by such tangible metrics as shared theological beliefs or even fidelity to Christian right political crusades. On the latter front, Trump can boast a record of keeping his promises (particularly his pledge to appoint Supreme Court justices willing to overturn Roe v. Wade) to conservative Christians that no future pledges of conservative cultural activism can ever match. And even in terms of his personal belief system, many Christian right activists treasure his willingness to fight for their values more than any profession to share them, as veteran Iowa political journalist Thomas Beaumont recently observed:

[L]oyalty to Trump was evident in interviews with more than a dozen Iowa pastors in the wake of Trumps indictment. Each cited Trumps role in helping overturn Roe vs. Wade as central to the long-term rethinking about him since his first campaign. Several also pointed to Trumps recognizing Jerusalem as Israels capital and moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to the holy city.

I appreciate the fact that, for what seems like the first time in my lifetime, someone did what they said they were going to do, said the Rev. Kerry Jech of Marshalltown. With Donald Trump, what he promised us, he delivered on. Thats one thing I cant get away from.

Not a few of Trumps Evangelical converts have said harsh things about him in the past:

During the 2016 campaign, the Rev. Mike Demastus of Des Moines supported Cruz and called Trump morally loathsome, wicked and a reprehensible man. Today, Demastus calls him the most pro-life president we have ever had, and would consider supporting him in the caucuses, along with others.

But rational assessments of Trumps record aside, there is a more disturbing phenomenon going on among conservative Evangelicals: a Christian nationalist movement in which Trump can only be described as an irreplaceable figure whose political success is crucial to Gods plan for redeeming a sinful world. This notion was made most clearly evident in the ReAwaken America tour series of politico-religious events highlighted by Trump-pardoned scoundrels Michael Flynn and Roger Stone that flowed out of the January 6 pro-Trump insurrection, as PBS explained last year:

ReAwaken America was launched by Flynn, a former White House national security adviser, and Oklahoma entrepreneur Clay Clark a few months after the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol failed to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Attendees and speakers still insist  against all evidence and dozens of court rulings  that Donald Trump rightfully won.

Since early last year, the ReAwaken America Tour has carried its message of a country under siege to tens of thousands of people in 15 cities and towns. The tour serves as a traveling roadshow and recruiting tool for an ascendant Christian nationalist movement thats wrapped itself in God, patriotism and politics and has grown in power and influence inside the Republican Party.

Deeply steeped in QAnon and other right-wing conspiracy theories that treat Trumps enemies as Gods as well, ReAwaken America may now be giving way to an actual campaign organization mobilizing the most militant of Evangelicals for Trumps comeback, as The Guardian reports:

A far-right religious group with ties to Donald Trump loyalists Roger Stone and retired Army Lt Gen Michael Flynn is planning events with pastors in swing-state churches in Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and elsewhere to spur more evangelical backing for the former US presidents 2024 campaign 

The Oklahoma-based evangelical pastor and businessman Jackson Lahmeyer leads the fledgling Pastors for Trump organization. Lahmeyer told the Guardian it boasts over 7,000 pastors as members and that he will unveil details about its plans on 11 May at the Trump National Doral in Miami, an event Trump will be invited to attend.

Lahmeyer ran for the Senate in 2022 with vocal backing from Flynn and Stone.

Pastors for Trump, however, may just be the tip of a Christian nationalist iceberg that conflates the 45th president with Jesus and Christianity with the MAGA cause. In an agonized column at The Atlantic, former George W. Bush speechwriter (and himself an Evangelical believer) Peter Wehner argues that a nationwide insurrection is underway in Evangelical congregations on behalf of Trump and everything he represents:

Nearly everyone tells me there is at the very least a small group in nearly every evangelical church complaining and agitating against teaching or policies that arent sufficiently conservative or anti-woke, a pastor and prominent figure within the evangelical world told me. (Like others with whom I spoke about this topic, he requested anonymity in order to speak candidly.) Its everywhere.

While this divinization of cultural conservatism didnt start or end with Trump, he very much has embodied it:

Trump was able to add open hatred and resentments to the political-religious stance of true believers  [historian George] Marsden said. Tribal instincts seem to have become overwhelming. The dominance of political religion over professed religion is seen in how, for many, the loyalty to Trump became a blind allegiance. The result is that many Christian followers of Trump have come to see a gospel of hatreds, resentments, vilifications, put-downs, and insults as expressions of their Christianity, for which they too should be willing to fight.

Perhaps newer culture warriors like Ron DeSantis can exploit the same passions, but as the Paul Revere of Christian nationalism, Trump will always have a special place in the hearts of militant conservatives whether they spend Sunday mornings in church or at home watching Fox News. He was and remains the slayer of civic and religious norms alike and has made it possible for self-described followers of Americas founders and of the Prince of Peace to become violent insurrectionists. And if thats true of Evangelicals who belong to religious denominations with structured systems of doctrines anchored in centuries-old theologies, the peril of confusing Jesus with Trump will likely be much higher in the increasingly numerous nondenominational faith communities in which spiritual warfare against demonic influences is sometimes more prominent than the more conventional narratives of sin and redemption.

If Trump rides back into the White House on the shoulders of conservative Christians, well know its time for a good hard look at what professed believers in Jesus Christ actually believe and practice.
CAIRO, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Arab League Council issued a resolution on Sunday to form an Arab ministerial contact group to communicate with the Sudanese parties and influential countries, aiming to reach a settlement of the crisis in Sudan.

The resolution, made during the Council's emergency meeting in the Egyptian capital Cairo, is meant to intensify Arab efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that erupted in mid-April.

Under the resolution, the contact group would include representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the Arab League, according to an Arab League statement.

The contact group will hold communication with the Sudanese parties, influential countries regionally and internationally as well as relevant international organizations, according to the statement.

The committee aims to reach a complete and sustainable ceasefire in Sudan and address the causes of the crisis.

It will further coordinate with international relief organizations to provide urgent humanitarian and medical support to citizens and displaced persons inside Sudan.

The group will also work to help those taking refuge in neighboring countries.

The Council also stressed the need to fully respect Sudan's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and not to interfere in its internal affairs to avoid fueling conflict and threatening regional peace and security. 
Court Appearances A newsletter covering E. Jean Carrolls battery lawsuit against Donald Trump. Sign up here. E. Jean Carroll today in court. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: Getty Images

As E. Jean Carrolls civil rape and defamation trial against Donald Trump neared its end Monday, her lead attorney, Roberta Kaplan, largely focused on two powerful motifs: that Trump thought himself better than everyone else and that hes tried to hide a predatory M.O. by peddling defamatory lies.

In this country, even the most powerful person can be held accountable in court, Kaplan said. No one, not even a former president, is above the law.

Did any of you happen to notice, though, what Trump said about that? Kaplan said, referring to Trumps Truth Social post, where he said the U.S.s legal system was a disgrace because of Carrolls lawsuit. In that post, he actually insulted the justice system.

You only saw him on video, Kaplan said slightly later. He didnt even bother to show up here in person.

Trump threatened last week to confront Carroll in court, but his lawyers never filed a request for him to appear, despite having days to do so. His team rested without calling a single witness; Trump only appeared in his recorded deposition.

To show Trumps alleged playbook, Kaplan compared how each accuser who testified  Carroll, Jessica Leeds, and Natasha Stoynoff  described similar circumstances surrounding his alleged misconduct toward them.

Carroll said that she and Trump spoke casually while walking around Bergdorf Goodman until he led her into a dressing room and raped her. Leeds alleged that during a flight in the late 1970s, Trump groped her unexpectedly. Stoynoff told jurors that Trump, whom she was interviewing for People magazine in 2005, led her into a room at Mar-aLago and then forcibly kissed her.

He makes friendly chit chat with a woman, Kaplan said. He suddenly lunges at her. He pounces, he kisses, he grabs, he doesnt wait  and if a woman later speaks up, he lies about it, he insults her, he demeans her, he says she is too ugly to assault.

He didnt wait. He grabbed her, using his own words, by the pussy, Kaplan said of Trumps alleged assault against Carroll.

Kaplan also attacked Trumps attractiveness defense  hes repeatedly said his accusers are not my type  by noting how he mistook Carroll for his second ex-wife, Marla Maples, while shown a photo of her during a deposition. Mr. Trump pointed to Ms. Carroll, the woman he supposedly said was not his type. She was exactly his type, Kaplan said.

Trumps lead attorney, Joe Tacopina, countered that Carrolls allegation was a money-driven lie. The gist: Carroll wanted to cash in on her book and, what better way than accusing an unpopular ex-president of rape?

We are going to take a journey to justice, Tacopina told jurors, reiterating a point from openings about how his client needed to be treated fairly.

People have very strong feelings about Donald Trump, one way or the other, he said  and court isnt the right place to litigate ones feelings on Trump. Theres a time and a secret place to do that, its called a ballot box.

What E. Jean Carroll has done here is an affront to justice, Tacopina said. Shes minimized real rape victims. Shes exploited their pain and suffering  we cannot let her profit to the tune of millions of dollars for her efforts to deceive you.

As for why Trump wasnt at trial, Tacopina presented what could have been on the syllabus in a philosophy of mind class. Were not arguing consent, he said: were saying it did not happen. Later, he asked: How do you prove a negative?

A person could say they didnt do something. But how could one call witnesses to support that something didnt happen  especially when there wasnt an exact date?

Thats why our defense came out through cross, Tacopina said, and continued: What could I have asked Donald Trump in court that he wasnt asked in a day-long deposition?

At numerous points during his summation, Tacopina would gesture and point and sometimes whack the lectern with open palms to emphasize a point. In total, both sides closings ran around five hours; at some points, at least one juror could be seen nodding off during each attorneys presentation.

An elephant in the room during closings, however, appears to be both camps concern about class. Carroll was down to earth and vulnerable during the trial. But anyone could choose to read her poise (and her chosen profession and impeccable dress) solely through the lens of privilege discourse and, in doing so, feel like shes less trustworthy or deserving of empathy.

Trump, of course, is a bloviating, self-professed billionaire and ex-president who was M.I.A. while jurors were stuck inside, listening to a case about him. So, Kaplan and Tacopina sprinkled little bits of everywoman and everyman in their arguments.

The Plaintiff in our case, E. Jean Carroll is truly one of a kind, Kaplan told jurors at the beginning of her opening. Having grown up in Indiana, she pulled herself up by her own bootstraps and achieved amazing success as a journalist and advice columnist in New York City.

Kaplan also discussed how an expert psychological witness described Carroll becoming emotionally closed to companionship and intimacy after the alleged attack. Its like a metal gate being pulled down in front of a bodega in New York City, Kaplan said.

Tacopina, for his part, took issue with Cheryl Beall, a former Bergdorfs manager who was called by Carroll. Beall seemed irked by the fact that employees would leave changing room doors unlocked; Tacopina cast this as her being frustrated toward subordinates whom she considered lowly.

I come from regular stock, ladies and gentleman, and I prefer it that way  and that offends me, Tacopina said. Sorry, Ms. Beall  Im not as erudite.

This thread felt odd, considering: Both sides kept urging jurors to use their common sense. If jurors do use their common sense, surely theyd see this rhetoric as transparent, if not a bit schlocky?

On Tuesday morning, Judge Lewis Kaplan will give the jury their instructions. Then, they will start deliberating.

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Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photos: Getty

Psychologist Jean Twenge has made her name puzzling out the differences between generations. In 2006s Generation Me, Twenge, who is a professor at San Diego State University, described millennials as entitled and confident yet unsatisfied. In 2017s iGen, she characterized Gen Z as cautious to a fault, addicted to their phones, and miserable. An adapted excerpt from that book in The Atlantic helped ignite a debate about the connection between rising teen depression and anxiety and the smartphones that had become ubiquitous several years earlier. Twenges new book, aptly titled Generations, uses troves of data to explore differences  largely tech-driven  between age cohorts.

Critics of Twenges work have accused her of exhibiting confirmation bias in how she presents data and ignoring alternate explanations for teen unhappiness. (The notion that generations are so easily definable in the first place is another general area of dispute.) But as the rates of serious depression among young people  especially girls  grows more alarming and persuasive new research emerges about its causes, her theory of the case on teen misery is looking increasingly solid. I spoke with Twenge about how thinking about this phenomenon has changed in the last few years, whether she thinks new state laws on social media might be the way forward, and whether the state of the world has prompted fatalism among young people.

When your Atlantic story came out in 2017, it helped kick-start the conversation around social media and teen depression. For a long time, there was considerable pushback to the idea that the two were inextricably linked. A lot of people made the point that even though technology is making kids miserable was an intuitive idea, there wasnt enough empirical proof to really prove it. Heres the opener of a 2020 New York Times piece: Its become common wisdom that too much time spent on smartphones, et cetera, is responsible for a recent spike in anxiety and depression. But a growing number of academic researchers have produced studies suggesting that common wisdom is wrong.

But now it feels like a lot of that resistance has melted away. Theres far more consensus that smartphones are a major factor in this crisis, even if theyre not the only one. Why is that? Better research? Or are people just more thoroughly digesting what theyre seeing in front of them?

I think theres a number of factors. One is I think its becoming increasingly clear that correlational studies finding there was no link between social-media use and depression had some pretty significant flaws. That New York Times article that youre referring to, if I remember right, had a picture of Candice Odgers in it, right?

Yes, thats right.

One of the studies she frequently presents measured social-media use from never to every day, and then looked at any links to happiness or well-being. Well, when teens use social media now, if they do at all, they use it every day. So thats a really poor measure. And speaking very broadly, daily social-media use is usually not the issue  excessive use is. Its three, or especially five, or seven, or more hours a day of social media where you find the strong links to depression.

The bigger one was an Orben and Przybylski paper in Nature Human Behaviour in January 2019. That paper was very often cited as being about social media and depression. But even just the scan of the title on the abstract shows it was actually about all screen time. They included TV; they included even owning a computer, and they threw all these things together. And so not only did they not zero in just on social-media use, there were also several really significant flaws in their method, which I pointed out in a paper.

But for the sake of argument, lets set aside whatever I did. Two other research groups also concluded that the same datasets Orben and Przybylski used showed significant links between social-media use and depression. Yvonne Kelly and her colleagues had a paper come out the same month as Orben and Przybylskis, showing that girls who spent five or more hours a day on social media were three times as likely to fit clinical criteria for depression as nonusers of social media. And then several years later, after we had gotten the data, and the code, and been able to use the same sophisticated statistical technique they did, we found the same thing.

So a pattern begins to emerge.

The same month our paper came out, two researchers in Spain posted another paper on a preprint server. Theyre not only not collaborators of mine  I had never met them or heard of them. And they used the same sophisticated statistical technique, but similar to us, narrowed in more on social media. And they came to many of the same conclusions about some of the flawed analyses in the Orben and Przybylski paper. So I think three independent research groups coming to different conclusions than Orben and Przybylski really started to change the conversation as well. And there are other elements; those are just some examples.

The other piece here is that when the Atlantic article came out, that was an excerpt of my 2017 book. If I remember correctly, we only had data up until 2015, and these increases in depression started around 2012. So we really only had a few years of data. For a lot of folks, the idea was, Maybe this is a blip thats going to go away, and who knows what the cause is. My theory was: If it is phones and social media, and if phones and social media continue to rise in popularity and frequency of use, then the rise in depression should continue. If its something else, say economic circumstances, or some other, onetime event, it should fade. And what happened is it kept going.

As you mentioned before, the notion of screen time is a vague concept. But now it feels like researchers have gotten more savvy about which kind of screen time in particular, and how much of it, could be dangerous.

I think so too. Something I became more interested in was, is it everything on a screen or is there a stronger link to depression with certain activities versus others? So one of my papers a couple years ago was titled Not All Screen Time Is Created Equal.

Have you gotten to the point where you can point to certain apps that you think might be worse than others? Is there a hierarchy of misery there?

The paper I just mentioned looked at the social media versus gaming question. And yes, the links to depression are stronger for social media. Thats true even if you look at boys and girls separately, which I know sounds like a detail, but its not. Thats really, really important in this area of research, because girls spend more time on social media, boys spend more time on gaming, and theres a significant sex difference in depression. So you have to look at them separately, or at least control for gender.

You believe that social media itself is a major driver of harm. But Im wondering about the opportunity costs of using it, too. Because your findings show that young people are going out less, theyre hanging out with one another less; theyre overall a lot less independent than previous generations. If they lived lives that encompassed both heavy use of social media and the more traditional markers of young adulthood, would that mostly allay the problem? Or is social media just by itself enough to do this damage?

I think it would be less, but it would still be there.

This is the thing about the rise of social media and excessive use of social media: Theres so many possible mechanisms. Theres the fact that they have less time for seeing friends face-to-face, which happens at the group level, too. Even if you dont use social media, who are you going to go out with when your friends are all on Instagram and going out in person is no longer the norm?

Then theres the displacement of other beneficial activities like exercise and sleep. Not getting enough sleep is a major risk factor for mental-health issues, and teens started sleeping less right around 2012. Again, right around that turning point for social media and smartphones. And data I published shows that, not surprisingly, the teens who spend a lot more time on portable electronic devices are not sleeping as much. Then theres content. And I think thats the other way that the research has really evolved in the last six years, is we know a lot more about the impact of content.

Meaning?

Meaning social comparison, lots of body-image issues, especially for teen girls and young women; cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, going down rabbit holes of negative content, and then not being able to reset because the algorithms think this is the content you want to see. Theres just so many other problems. And some of the research in that area around the problematic content was done by Meta themselves.

Thats what Frances Haugens leaked documents showed.

Theres obviously a flip side to this, which is that the internet often makes people feel less alone as well  both young people and adults. There are shy or weird or socially awkward kids who would have no community whatsoever in the old days, the old, supposedly better days, who can now sometimes find that community online.

Thats the argument and an area where I think theres intuitive appeal to that, but not a ton of research.

So you just need a few more years to delve into that more thoroughly, you think?

Perhaps. I dont know, and Id have to look into this to see if it has been done. But is there research showing that, say, LGBTQ kids in rural areas, where they may not be able to find a community in person, are better off if they spend a lot of time online versus less? I dont know if thats been addressed. I dont know if that research is out there.

Youd have to design that experiment very, very carefully.

Yes, exactly.

You speak to a lot of kids and young adults for your books. To what extent do they agree with your hypothesis? Do they think, Yeah, this is screwing us up? And is there any kind of real anti-smartphone movement among the young, other than a few kids in Brooklyn?

I should be clear that the people Ive talked to are not a representative sample. This is why most of the research that I do is based on nationally representative samples. But I did a bunch of interviews for iGen, the 2017 book, and then I also gave a lot of talks on that book at middle schools and high schools. What I find the most often is that kids adamantly say, We do not want our phones taken away  they use that phrase very specifically. But then they also say, Having a break from it is nice. And yeah, I dont feel good when Im on social media, and I dont want to spend this much time on social media, but I dont know how to stop.

Thats relatable.

I think a lot of people feel that way. And Ive seen a few young people who have started conversations around this issue over the last few years. Emma Lembke, whos a college student at, I think, Washington U. in St. Louis, did a really interesting interview with the Times, talking about how she had a very negative experience with Instagram as a young teen. She started a movement called Log Off to get young people talking about this issue of cutting back on social media, on letting it take over your life. So theres more conversation around that.

One really fascinating thing in those leaked Meta documents was that in focus groups they convened of teen girls, the girls blamed social media for the high rates of depression among teens. Theres an exact quote in the documents The Wall Street Journal posted. When asked, Why do you think teens now are more depressed? the groups named social media unprompted and consistent across all groups. Thats stunning to me, because not only is this a group you wouldnt necessarily expect would come to that conclusion, but they came to it in research conducted by Meta.

Ive had debates with friends where they advanced the notion that the worlds degraded state  climate change, regular school shootings, political strife  might be a primary reason younger generations are so miserable. Or, to go with an angle I find more plausible: The news isnt necessarily worse, but the internet, with its inherent negativity bias, spins things as bleaker than ever.

I think thats exactly it. In Generations, I spent a lot of time on this, because it was a theme that just came up over and over and over  this really pervasive negativity, sometimes crossing over into denialism, especially online. And I think you have to take a step back from that and ask the question: Is 2023 really worse than boomers getting drafted into Vietnam? And Ill keep going. Is it really worse than the 80s when we thought the USSR was going to drop the bomb any second and the world was going to end? Is it really worse than millennials graduating into the Great Recession?

To be fair, the late 90s, when I was coming of age, was pretty untroubled in a world-on-fire sense.

There are times that are better and worse, but every time has its challenges. And are the challenges we face right now really worse than the challenges of previous eras? I think thats an extremely subjective question.

You framed it as asking, Is this why kids are depressed? So just to reason it through, if it was school shootings, then what we would expect would be depression starting to spike in the late 90s. By the way, that was the problem with the late 90s.

Yeah, but it wasnt this pervasive. It was still a terrible novelty.

But if it was school shootings, we would expect that the rise in teen depression and loneliness would be a U.S.-only problem, and its not.

We see this internationally. Theres the strongest evidence in English-speaking countries, but around the world, we were able to look at adolescent loneliness and it increased in the same identical pattern to the U.S. in 36 countries around the world.

So that points away from school shootings pretty strongly. Climate change, thats a worldwide issue, but at least in the U.S., surveys where Ive been able to look at the data concern around the environment peaked in the 90s, not recently. So theres that. And then the other piece of it is just thinking about the way kids and teens develop. Generally, they dont become really interested in big, global issues like that until late high school and college.

And where are the links between technology use and depression strongest? The youngest. Where do you see the largest increases in depression, self-harm, and suicide? Its 10- to 14-year-olds. In fact, its 10- to 12-year-olds when you really boil it down. Thats not usually going to be the group who is really dialed into world issues. What theyre concerned about is what their friends are doing.

Theres the overly negative side of social media were discussing, but also the overly positive side  people flaunting their unattainable lifestyles on Instagram, for instance. And I feel like theres been an absorption of both of these extremes that helps foster a kind of nihilism.

The negativity piece is also interesting to me, because theres a chicken-and-egg problem. So is it that theres negativity online and thats why kids are depressed? Well, as I said, I dont think so, given that its stronger among the younger groups, but could it be that people are more negative online because more people are depressed? Maybe. So it could be going both ways.

A lot of people are much more conscious of social medias effects, and many now view it as a societal crisis. Naturally, legislation has popped up, some of it more reasonable, some less so. Theres a bipartisan congressional bill that would ban kids under 13 from joining social networks, which is probably not going anywhere. But recently, Utah did pass a bill mandating parental permission for anyone under 18 to join certain social networks like TikTok and so forth. What do you think of these efforts? Are they even possible to implement, for one thing, and do you think a crackdown is the right sort of approach?

Yeah, I do. I think we should raise the minimum age for social media to 16, and actually verify age. The good news here is there are an increasing number of companies, like third-party vendors who verify age. And theres various techniques for doing so. They have their own trade association now, apparently.

This all seems like a difficult road to me, because first of all, nobodys better at getting around restrictions than a 15-year-old. Im not familiar with the current age-verification technology, but doing this on a mass scale seems like a real challenge in American society, just on an implementation level. But youre saying that if they could, they should.

Yes.

Okay. Why 16?

Well, you could do 18. I think that would be fine, too. I like 16 because then if 16- and 17-year-olds want to, say, get involved in political issues, then they can do so.

Obviously, we need to find a happy medium between complete lack of regulation and banning everything. Should we ban social media outright? No, I dont think so. And I think that the clearest solution is age minimums.

How do you think people are going to think of this era in ten years, of unrestricted social media and what we think we know about the connection between that and teen mental health? Are we going to look back in horror? Are we going to be in the same place we are now?

I dont know. I hate the predicting-the-future thing, even though thats the whole last chapter of my book. In that last chapter, as much as possible, I went back to those surveys of teens, because then you can see what might be coming in the future for things like the birth rate and the workplace. With this, I think its harder to predict. But Id like to think that in a few years, well look back at an era where we handed 10-year-olds smartphones and just told them to go at it as crazy.

I do think the stuff with kids is the piece thats going to change.

The 10- to 14-year-olds?

Yeah. I think thats where youre going to get the biggest consensus. Because, look, social media has other issues, lets just say, and things that are probably not good for our democracy, and not good for social life for adults, either. But lets at least protect kids. Lets get social media out of middle schools, for example.

I think few people would disagree on that one.

Yeah.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
4 items in this article Kasonga wearing Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint in shade 525. Photo: Mbiye Kasonga

I came of age in the era of full-glam beauty tutorials on YouTube, and I spent my high-school years believing that even a trip to Trader Joes required a smoky eye and a full face of foundation. By the time I got to college, my skin was the worse for wear. I dealt with stubborn acne and persistent dryness, and I no longer liked the feeling of wearing a full face of makeup on a daily basis. So when Glossier launched in 2014 and I was first introduced to the concept of no-makeup makeup, I became a skin-tint girl almost overnight. I stood in line on a hot New York August day to enter the original Glossier flagship to buy the brands Perfecting Skin Tint when it launched, and when I started using it, I knew immediately that I would be a devout skin-tint wearer. It offered barely there coverage, enough to blur my hyperpigmentation and make me feel put together while being lightweight so my skin could breathe. Essentially, it gave me that look of my skin but better, and my obsession hasnt waned in the decade since.

Skin tints are less pigmented than foundations, so they allow for a certain amount of flexibility that full-coverage complexion products dont. Add to that the way skin tints play nice with other makeup like blush and bronzer, all while feeling weightless on my face, and its the best of all worlds. But as with many complexion products, skin tints have historically had limited shade ranges. Thankfully, the category has evolved since Glossier launched with five shades. Brands have expanded their color palettes to be deep-skin friendly  and added ingredients like hyaluronic acid and SPF to the formulations for skin-care benefits.

Nearly nine years after purchasing that first bottle of skin tint, I am now a beauty-podcast producer and certified product junkie with an arsenal of skin tints to fit different needs, and after a lot of trial and error, Ive found a few that are perfect for my skin. Below is my beloved skin-tint rotation.

For sheer coverage

Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint $26 This is where my obsession began. When these first launched, with just five shades, I was wearing G2, which matched my skin tone  deep brown with warm yellow undertones  and it looked great. When Glossier expanded the range to 12 shades in 2021, I tested them and found the reformulated G2 shade was even better than before: The tint matched my undertones much more, rendering the makeup even less detectable. One thing that has been consistent between the two launches is the incredibly lightweight formula. If youre looking to cover up a zit, this wont be for you, but its perfect for sheer coverage. It has a blurring, filterlike effect that evens out your skin tone without distorting what you actually look like or feeling heavy on the skin. I find myself reaching for this one on vacation and in the summertime when Im already tan and looking for the lightest possible touch of makeup in the hot and humid weather. $26 at Sephora Buy $26 at Glossier Buy

For a dewy, buildable formula

Ami Cole Skin-Enhancing Tint $32 The first time I tried this skin tint, I audibly gasped: I have never had a complexion product match my skin so perfectly. While skin tints tend to neglect darker skin tones, Ami Cole caters specifically to melanin-rich skin, as the company says, with a variety of undertones. When I learned the company was founded by a Glossier alum, Diarrha NDaiye, my hopes were set high and then exceeded  its my favorite everyday tint. The formula is lightweight and buildable, so you can customize the coverage as you need. The skin tint perfectly masks my hyperpigmentation, though it wont cover intense breakouts, so I pair it with concealer if I need more coverage. The finish is dewy without being oily, leaving me with a truly skinlike finish that acts as a great base for the rest of my makeup. $32 at Sephora Buy $32 at Ami Cole Buy

For medium coverage with SPF

Saie Beauty Slip Tint $36 $36 Saies Slip Tint has a thicker formula than other skin tints Ive tried and has the most coverage, so its perfect for when I have acne scars or Im dealing with an active breakout and need coverage that wont do further damage to my skin. The Slip Tint also has zinc oxide for sun protection, though the addition of that ingredient made me a bit skeptical. When Ive tried mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide in the past, they leave me looking ghostly instead of dewy. But this formula is the best of both worlds: a mineral sunscreen that actually blends into darker skin tones and covers blemishes for a flawless base. I wear shade 9.5, and I find it blends well into my skin. Others should be able to find something that works for their skin tone in Saies recently expanded shade range, which now includes more rich tones. $36 at Sephora Buy

For all-day wear

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Tint $43 $43 Ive heard from other beauty hobbyists that Shiseidos skin-care products are some of the best on the market  Charlotte Parler, an aesthetician and a co-founder of Dieux, loves its sunscreen  so I was incredibly excited to try out the brands skin tint when it dropped last year. The Self-Refreshing Tint is said to resist heat, humidity, and oil and last for up to 12 hours. My in-person workday typically lasts about this long, and the Shiseido skin tint gets me through 40 minutes of commuting, hours of client meetings, and post-work drinks with no transferring and minimal creasing. I wear shade 525, a deep brown that melts into my skin with a matte finish that combats oiliness throughout the day. The coverage is light but buildable, so I like to apply multiple layers depending on how sheer or opaque I want my base to be. While this is the most expensive skin tint on my roster, the price is well worth it for the sun protection and skin-care ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain its moisture so mine feels great even after having this on all day. $43 at Sephora Buy

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Given the high stakes geopolitical game in which the world finds itself following Russias invasion of Ukraine last year, it would be naive to be believe that anything as high-profile as Irans seizure of oil tankers in and around its coastal waters occurred in political isolation. They did not, and such seizures of vessels and other disruptions to the global oil markets emanating from the Middle East are set to continue. This is a key element of the new global oil market order as analysed in my new book on the subject. To recap briefly on these recent events, Thursday 27 April saw forces of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) seize the oil tanker Advantage Sweet as it sailed through international waters in the Gulf of Oman. According to maritime shipping sources, the tanker was carrying an 800,000 barrels of Iraqi Ratawi crude oil cargo for the U.S. oil major Chevron, loaded at Kuwaits Mina Saud terminal on 25 April. Just a few days later, on Wednesday 3 May, the same Iranian naval forces seized another oil tanker, the Niovi, after it had left Dubai for the port of Fujairah, also in the UAE, via the Strait of Hormuz. Although Iran alleges that this second seizure was pursuant to a legal dispute dating back to 2020 and involving Nimr International and Baslam Nakliyat on the one side and the Marshall Islands-based La Mere Maritime on the other, both seizures occurred after an earlier incident involving the U.S. This incident was the U.S.s redirection of the oil tanker Suez Rajan, which was loaded with a full crude oil cargo destined for China, despite U.S. sanctions on the Iranian crude oil trade.

Related: Turkey Makes Huge 1-Billion-Barrel Oil Discovery



It was, then, China that vouched the tacit support to Iran that enabled the IRGCN to seize the two oil tankers, according to a source who works closely with the European Unions (EU) energy security apparatus and another with close ties to Irans Petroleum Ministry, both spoken to exclusively by OilPrice.com last week. China wants to lay down a clear marker that it will not tolerate U.S. interference in any of its dealings with its major Middle Eastern allies, and Iran is at the top of this list, and this includes any U.S. interference in the flows of oil from Iran to China, said the Iranian source. China does not recognise the unipolar geopolitical economic order with Washington at the centre of it that the U.S. continues to try to impose on other countries, and it [China] will not tolerate the imposition of this idea against its [Chinas] national interests, he added. China has the legal foundation to conduct such [oil] trade under the terms of the 25-year agreement made with Iran and has the right under the same agreement to protect its interests, regardless of arbitrary unilateral sanctions [on Iran] imposed by the U.S., he concluded.

Under the Iran-China 25-Year Comprehensive Cooperation Agreement first revealed anywhere in the world in my 3 September 2019 article on the subject, and analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order, China has wide-ranging access to several key elements of Irans energy, economic, and military sectors. Aside from first refusal on the exploration and development of all oil and gas fields in Iran, and huge discounts for China on the oil and gas produced from those fields, China also wrote into the Agreement several policies that allowed for much greater cooperation between the two countries militaries. One of these was the yearly exchange of dozens of senior officers of the two countries navies, armies, air forces, and intelligence units, plus technical personnel attached to special projects. Another was the dual purpose  military and civilian - rights given to China for its navy and air force to utilise Iranian military and civilian sites for whatever purpose it required.

Although no Chinese military personnel were directly involved on the ground in the recent seizures of oil tankers, the marker laid down by China through the IRGCNs oil tanker seizures is clear enough. It demonstrates that China will not accept any interference from the U.S. in any aspect of its expansion across the Middle East, or in the oil and gas flows to China that accompany it. It also demonstrates that China has the capacity, through Iran especially, but also now through Saudi Arabia  as also analysed in depth in my new book on the new global oil market order  to significantly disrupt the movement of oil across the world. China, as it has made clear with these two latest oil tanker seizures, now has proxy control of the Strait of Hormuz through Iran. At least 30 percent of the worlds crude oil moves through the Strait at any given time, and often a lot more. The same 25-year Agreement also gives China a hold over the Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which crude oil is shipped upwards through the Red Sea towards the Suez Canal before moving into the Mediterranean and then westwards. This has been achieved as it lies between Yemen - formerly heavily controlled by Iran-backed Houthis, but also now subject to the new China-brokered relationship deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia - and Djibouti, over which China has also established a stranglehold. What the seizure of the Advantage Sweet also now shows is that the Gulf of Oman can no longer be regarded as a safe alternative transport route for oil tankers either.

Although these latest seizures by Iran are primarily politically-motivated - aimed by China at showing that it will no longer tolerate any U.S. interference in its affairs  they also highlight that China does not see any immediate financial or economic fallout from the potentially higher oil prices that a higher risk premium would result in over time. In the 25-Year Agreement, China is guaranteed oil and gas prices from Iran at least 30 percent lower than the relevant oil pricing benchmarks. However, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, China has been demanding an extra discount on Iranian oil to the 30 percent discount at which it can currently also buy Russian oil, according to the EU energy security source. On average, the Chinese discount for Iranian crude oil to the international benchmark over the last 12 months has been around 44 percent, he said. But, it is even worse for Iran, as  from 11 November 2022 - China has been paying Iran in non-convertible Yuan, that is Yuan that can only be used inside China and/or spent buying Chinese goods, he added. Worse still is that whilst Yuan is the key instrument in payment, China is also using the currencies of Angola, Zambia and Kenya to pay Iran, and China is doing this as a means to induce Iran to buys goods from these countries so that these countries, in turn, can service their loans to China, he concluded.

It is interesting to note finally that China appears to have decided that the time is now right to come out of the shadows as far as its imports of crude oil from Iran are concerned. Previously, as also analysed in depth in my new book on the new global oil market order, China had disguised its huge oil imports from Iran in several ways. One of the most tried-and-trusted methods by which this has been done has been at source, with Iranian oil simply rebranded as non- Iraqi oil. This has been easily done because the two countries share many of the same oil reservoirs. Another has been done at sea with oil cargoes already on the move, achieved by

disabling  literally just flicking a switch  on the automatic identification system on ships that carry Iranian oil. This can be accompanied by just lying about provenance, destinations or specific cargo types in shipping documentation. Irans own former Petroleum Minister, Bijan Zanganeh, publicly highlighted this very practice when he said in 2020: What we export is not under Irans name. The documents are changed over and over, as well as [the] specifications. On top of these, and very popular for Iranian oil headed to China in the past, was tankers bound ultimately for China engaging in at-sea or just-outside-port transfers of Iranian oil onto tankers flying other flags. As also highlighted in December 2018 at the Doha Forum, by Irans Foreign Minister, Mohammad Zarif: If there is an art that we have perfected in Iran, [that] we can teach to others for a price, it is the art of evading sanctions. China, though, no longer feels the need, or has the desire, to try to placate the U.S.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

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Despite another strong set of quarterly profits reported over the past two weeks, the oil and gas sector has underperformed the broader market this year as commodity prices have dropped and fears of a recession have intensified.

The energy sector in the S&P 500 outperformed the index in the previous two years as oil prices and demand rose in 2021 after the reopening of economies from the Covid lockdowns and after oil and gas prices surged in 2022 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the heightened concerns about energy security.

At the end of last year, for example, oil prices were trading at a similar level to where they began 2022, but the S&P 500 energy index remained some 50% higher year-on-year. For the second year in a row, energy stocks outperformed the broader U.S. market in 2022.

But this year, the S&P energy sector was down by 8.2% year to date to May 5, compared to a 7.7% rise in the S&P 500 Index.

Analysts see limited near-term upside for the oil and gas stocks, considering the lingering concerns about a looming recession, which could affect oil and gas companies ability to repeat the strong cash flows from the past several quarters.

A further slide in oil prices as a result of a possible recession doesnt engender a lot of confidence in the near-term future of cash flows, Matt Portillo, head of research at advisory firm TPH&Co, told the Financial Times.

The variable dividends at some U.S. shale producers  introduced in 2021 to boost shareholder returns alongside regular dividends  could be endangered in case of a slowdown in demand and falling prices, according to other analysts.

Despite the decline in oil and gas prices between January and March this year, all of Big Oil, including U.S. supermajors ExxonMobil and Chevron, reported first-quarter earnings beating analyst estimates, thanks to higher production, strong trading results, and still relatively high refining margins.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The role of China in this rapprochement will be seen as a major geopolitical win in Beijing and could have negative influences on U.S. influence in the region.

The two countries have long been divided by a religious schism, with Iran being seen as the main Shia power in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia as the leading Sunni power.

Earlier this year, the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Iran met in Beijing in what was hailed as a historic development for the Middle East and the world.

Earlier this year, an event of historic proportions took place in Beijing. The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Iran met in the Chinese capital and agreed to work on restoring relations between the two Middle Eastern giants.

Brokered by China, the agreement could see the end of a rift that began more than seven years ago, led to the war in Yemen that caused the gravest humanitarian crisis in modern times, and kept the religions and geopolitical cauldron that is the Middle East bubbling.

With the restoration of diplomatic relations and the forging of closer ties, that cauldron could cool off. And this will make it much easier to do business in the Middle East.

Historically, relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia have been less than friendly for the most part. From the Iranian Revolution at the end of the 1970s, which saw the country stop being a kingdom and which naturally did not sit well with Riyadh, to the Iran-Iraq war, in which Riyadh supported Iraq, bilateral relations have been fraught with opposing interests.

There was some thawing in the 1990s when the then-Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia visited Iran for an Islamic summit in what was the first high-ranking Saudi state visit to Iran since 1979.

The good times continued until the early 2000s, when the U.S. invasion of Iraq tipped the political influence scales there towards pro-Iranian Shites, and Lebanon turned into an arena where Saudi Arabia and Iran measured their respective clout.

Tensions continued growing in the following years amid the so-called Arab Spring uprising, often involving Shiite groups in Sunni-dominated states and the war in Syria. The rift culminated in the execution of a Shiite cleric in Saudi Arabia, for which Irans Supreme Ruler vowed divine vengeance.

This background highlights the significance of the China-brokered talks that turned into action quite fast. The two said they would hasten to reopen their respective embassies and, indeed, last week, the two confirmed the reopening will take place within days.

Meanwhile, as foreign countries rush to evacuate their citizens from renewed violence in Sudan, Reuters reported that the Saudi Navy had saved several Iranian citizens in what it saw as the latest sign that the thawing of the ice between Riyadh and Tehran is genuine and advancing fast.

So, the detente is happening, and Iran has invited the Saudi king to visit soon. This means that the geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East are changing, and that is not good news for the West, notably the United States.

Long considered a guarantor of security for the Kingdomit was part of the original petrodollar dealnow the U.S. has all but fallen from grace with Riyadh, and the latter, in the face of Crown Prince Mohammed, is not too shy to show it. It might have had something to do with President Bidens vow to turn Saudi Arabia into a pariah state.

In any case, the fact that China brokered the deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran has implications for the future of both the Middle East and Chinaand the rest of the world. And its not only because of the Middle Easts vast oil wealth. Its also because of its mineral wealth.

China has expressed an active interest in taking part in the development of Saudi Arabias considerable metals and minerals reserves. It is already actively taking part in the development of Irans oil and gas reserves. China wants to do business with both countries, and it has reached the quite obvious conclusion that this would be easier if they were not in a permanent state of a cold-going-on-hot war.

China already dominates much of the global critical mineral supply chain. It is already the worlds biggest oil importer. But Beijing probably sees no reason not to expand this domination further, especially as the West attempts toextremely belatedlyboost its critical mineral self-sufficiency and shakes a finger at China for its already pretty overwhelming dominance of the sector.

Yet China is also scoring geopolitical points on the global stage. While the U.S. presence in the Middle East has tended to be overwhelmingly military, China convinced the Saudis and the Iranians to make peace without a single soldier. While the U.S. has clear friends and enemies in the region, China appears willing to work with everyone.

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This impression is being met with suspicion in the West and praise outside the West as it increasingly becomes clear that the Wests attitudes and sentiments are not representative of the whole world. China is quite aware of that.

It is not coincidental that there is so much talk about a transition to multipolarity. It is also not coincidental that Saudi Arabia is considering joining BRICS, along with OPEC pal UAE. And it is certainly not a coincidence that international trade in yuan and other non-dollar currencies is on the rise. We might be witnessing a global geopolitical shift to a new order that will be dominated by China. The deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia could well be a step in that direction.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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A study published in Nature Energy on Monday has revealed that the U.S. Oil Patch is home to tens of thousands of inactive offshore oil and gas wells that remain unplugged, posing the risk of possible leaks into the ocean.

The study estimates that whereas plugging and abandoning these wells could minimize their environmental risk, the exercise would cost the industry a hefty $30 billion. There are more inactive, non-producing wells in the Gulf of Mexico coastal waters in Louisiana, Texas and Alabama that have not been plugged and abandoned than currently active wells in this region.

It also means that companies operating in the region risk clashing with the regulators sooner rather than later.

Last week, the U.S. pipeline regulator unveiled new rules aimed at lowering methane leaks from the vast network of 2.7 million miles of natural gas pipelines in the country.

The proposal issued Friday by the Transportation Department's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration could "significantly improve the detection and repair of leaks from gas pipelines... deploy pipeline workers across the country to keep more product in the pipe, and prevent dangerous accidents."The agency estimates the new rules could potentially eliminate 1 million metric tons of methane emissions by 2030, the equivalent of emissions from 5.6 million cars.

Leaky oil and gas infrastructure has been playing an outsized role in climate change by spewing out far more quantities of an even more potent greenhouse gas into the atmosphere than earlier thought.

Three years ago, Reuters reported that satellites by the European Space Agency had detected huge plumes of methane leaking from the 2,607-mile-long Yamal pipeline that transports natural gas from Siberia to Europe.

The massive methane leaks could throw a monkey wrench into the natural gas bridge which presupposes that natural gas is a cleaner fossil fuel resulting in it being favored over coal in the global energy mix. Although methane does not usually get the same bad rap that carbon dioxide does, its actually a far more potent greenhouse gas, more than 80X more powerful at warming the earth than CO2 over 20 years and 28x more powerful on a 100-year timescale.

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By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

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The Canadian energy sector is reeling after the shutting in of at least 145,000 of oil equivalent per day (boepd) in the oil-rich province of Alberta due to wildfires.

The unprecedented fires have forced tens of thousands of Albertans to evacuate their homes.

More than half a dozen Canadian oil and gas companies including Paramount Resources (OTCPK:PRMRF), Crescent Point Energy Corp. (NYSE:CPG), Vermilion Energy Inc. (NYSE:VET), Pipestone Energy Corp. (OTCPK:BKBEF), Kiwetinohk Energy Corp. (TSX:KEC:CA),Tourmaline Oil Corp. (OTCPK:TRMLF) and Cenovus Energy Inc. (NYSE:CVE) have been impacted by the nearly 80 fires currently running amok in the province.

Declaring a state of emergency on Saturday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the situation as "unprecedented".

Alberta "has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," Smith said.

Climate change is making it costlier for oil and gas companies to operate. Albertas wildfires are the latest in a series of climate-related?supply threats have already begun to manifest in the oil and gas industry, with more than 600 billion barrels equivalent of the worlds commercially recoverable oil and gas reserves, or 40% of total reserves, facing high or extreme risks.

According to UK-based global risk and strategic consulting firm Verisk Maplecroft, the risk of?climate-related events disrupting?the flow?of oil?to global markets?is highest in Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Nigeria.

The outage comes as OPEC+ production cuts of 1.6 million bpd came into effect this month.

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While easing fears of recession are believed to be largely responsible for Mondays uptick in oil prices after three straight weeks of decline, Albertas outage could also help drive prices somewhat.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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The European Commission has proposed to EU member states to consider trade restrictions on companies from China, Hong Kong, the UAE, Uzbekistan, and Armenia which are thought to be helping Russia obtain technology for its military and industrial complex, Bloomberg reported on Monday, quoting draft proposals it had seen.

The Commission is targeting companies considered to be directly supporting Russias military and industrial complex in its war of aggression against Ukraine, according to a document Bloomberg has viewed.

The EUs executive arm is looking to impose stricter export restrictions regarding dual-use goods and technology, as well as goods and technology which might contribute to the technological enhancement of Russias defense and security sector, a document reads.

The Financial Times reported on Sunday about the EUs proposal.

Asked to comment on the report, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a regular press conference today that If the report you cited is true, the EU move will erode mutual trust and cooperation with China and sharpen division and confrontation in the world, which is extremely dangerous.

We call on the EU not to take that wrong course. Otherwise, China will take resolute measures to safeguard our legitimate and lawful rights and interests, the Chinese official added.

Last month, Bloomberg reported that officials from the G7 group of the worlds most industrialized nations are discussing the idea of an outright ban on nearly all exports to Russia in another move aimed at hurting the Russian economy over Putins invasion of Ukraine.

The G7 officials are discussing the idea ahead of a summit of the leaders in Japan this month, with the goal of bringing the EU into the fold of countries banning nearly all exports to Russia, according to Bloombergs sources.

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However, an EU implementation of such sanctions would need the approval of all 27 member states, which would create a lot of differences among EU nations and fears of retaliation from Russia.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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After years of delays and massive cost overruns, Nigeria is set to finally see a 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) oil refinery commissioned later this month.

The Dangote Refinery, built by the group of the same name of Africas richest person, Aliko Dangote, is expected to be inaugurated by Nigerias outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari on May 22, Nigerian outlet THISDAY reported on Sunday, quoting a source at the refinery.

Construction at the refinery has been completed, and tests are being carried out, the source told THISDAY.

The Dangote Group has previously said that it aims to commission the refinery before President Buhari leaves office at the end of May after serving the maximum of two consecutive terms per the constitution.

It looks like this time the timeline will be kept, as a presidential spokesperson told Reuters on Sunday that the refinery near Lagos is set for inauguration on May 22.

The refinery has cost around $20 billion, up from initial cost estimates of between $12 billion and $14 billion.

The huge refinery will be able to meet domestic fuel demand and even have some part of the fuel left for exports.

The Dangote refinery expects to export diesel to customers in Europe, as well as gasoline to Latin American and African markets.

Nigeria, OPECs top crude oil producer in Africa, has had to rely on fuel imports due to a lack of enough capacity at its refineries, some of which had to undergo refurbishment in recent years.

At the end of last year, the then oil minister Timipre Sylva said that the country expects to stop importing petroleum products starting in the third quarter of 2023.

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A refurbished refinery in Port Harcourt in the Niger Delta is expected to be producing 60,000 bpd of refined crude oil per day, and the new Dangote refinery is expected to come online in 2023, Sylva said at the end of November.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Protesters hold a rally against Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea in Seoul, South Korea, May 7, 2023. Several South Korean organizations rallied here Sunday to protest Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea. The protesters called for Tokyo's apology over its militarist past, opposed South Korea-Japan military cooperation, and demanded withdrawal of Japan's plan to discharge radioactive wastewater. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)

SEOUL, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Several South Korean organizations rallied here Sunday to protest Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea.

The protesters called for Tokyo's apology over its militarist past, opposed South Korea-Japan military cooperation, and demanded withdrawal of Japan's plan to discharge radioactive wastewater.

A group of activists from the Solidarity for Peace and Reunification of Korea (SPARK) gathered near the South Korean presidential office in central Seoul, where Kishida held talks with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol.

"Japan should apologize for its illegal colonial rule and withdraw the Fukushima contaminated water discharge plan," the protesters chanted.

"The (South) Korean and Japanese governments continue to say, 'Let's move into the future with the historical issues covered up and unresolved. A righteous solution to the historical issues will be needed to move toward the future of genuine peace," Moon Ga-on, a college student, told Xinhua while attending the rally.

South Korea unveiled a proposal in March to compensate South Korean victims of Japan's forced wartime labor through a government-backed foundation financed by private-sector donations, which triggered strong backlash at home.

Forced labor victims and sex slavery victims, who were forced by the Imperial Japan into sex servitude for military brothels during World War II, have demanded that the Japanese government sincerely apologize for its wartime atrocities.

Kishida told a joint press conference with Yoon that his cabinet will continue to inherit the positions of previous cabinets as a whole in terms of historical perception, saying his heart ached over people who suffered hard and sad things.

His remarks could be difficult to soothe the victims as most of the previous Japanese cabinets failed to acknowledge its responsibility and make a sincere apology for the wartime brutalities.

Kishida's remarks that his heart ached were an expression of his personal and direct feelings for the people, indicating that it was not an official apology of the Japanese government.

With regard to Japan's plan to discharge tritium-laced wastewater from its crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific this year, Oh Mi-jung, one of SPARK activists, told Xinhua that it will pollute the marine environment and threaten the lives and safety of people all over the world.

"Japan is a country that was devastated by atomic bombs in 1945 ... The plan to dump the radioactive contaminated water into the Pacific approved by the Japanese government, which is fully aware of nuclear and radioactive damages, will endanger the lives and safety of people around the world," the activist noted.

Ahead of Kishida's trip to Seoul, about 5,000 protesters held a candlelight rally in Seoul on Saturday night, opposing the Japanese prime minister's visit without an apology for historical issues.

They also called on Japan to abandon the tritium-laced water discharge plan, urging the South Korean government to stop its diplomacy obedient to Japan and the United States. 

Protesters hold a rally against Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea in Seoul, South Korea, May 7, 2023. Several South Korean organizations rallied here Sunday to protest Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to South Korea. The protesters called for Tokyo's apology over its militarist past, opposed South Korea-Japan military cooperation, and demanded withdrawal of Japan's plan to discharge radioactive wastewater. (Photo by James Lee/Xinhua)
A 21-year-old Omaha woman was sentenced to seven decades in prison last week after pleading no contest to intentional child abuse resulting in death.

Antonea Cannon was sentenced in Douglas County District Court on Friday to 70 to 72 years in prison after she was found guilty of killing her 5-year-old stepson, Jaylen Hearnes, last year.

She will spend at least 35 years in prison before she is eligible for parole.

According to an arrest warrant, police were dispatched to a home near 57th and Manderson Streets on the afternoon of March 2, 2022, after Cannon called to report that Jaylen was not breathing and cold to the touch. She quickly called back to inform the 911 operator that she was on the way to a local hospital.

Rigor mortis had begun to set in by the time they arrived at the hospital, indicating that Jaylen had likely been dead for some time, court documents stated. Officers and hospital staff noted that he had several injuries on his body that were consistent with severe child abuse.

Cannon interviewed with police at the hospital and provided her timeline of events. She said she left Jaylen in the care of her 12-year-old sister until she left work at about 2:15 p.m.

When Cannon got home from work, she said, she put Jaylen in the car to go pick up her two other children from child care. It was after picking up the other children that Cannon said she realized Jaylen was cold to the touch.

In subsequent interviews, the 12-year-old denied babysitting Jaylen and said she had last seen him alive the day prior to his death. The affidavit says that Cannon stopped cooperating with officers and asked for a lawyer after she was confronted with the discrepancies.

A search warrant was executed at the home were police were initially dispatched. Inside, officers found what they believed was blood and blood splatter, as well as a splintered striking instrument.

Prosecutors claim that Cannon beat Jaylen to or near death and then left him in the car while she went to work. His cause of death was internal bleeding and abdominal hemorrhaging.

Cannons two other children were removed from her care and taken into state custody.
Victory Day is Russias most important secular holiday, lauding two tenets that are central to its identity: military might and moral rectitude. But the war in Ukraine undermines both this year. Many regions have canceled their observances of the 78th anniversary of Nazi Germany's capitulation in World War II because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks. However, Moscows Red Square military parade will go ahead on Tuesday despite Russias claim of an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on the Kremlin. For all the fearsome armaments that will be on display, Russias failure to make gains in Ukraine has undermined the image of its armys indomitability.
UNITED NATIONS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday announced the appointment of Herve Lecoq of France as the new deputy head of mission at the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Lecoq, who succeeds Jack Christofides of South Africa, will also serve as director of political and civil affairs at the UNIFIL, Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for Guterres, told a regular press briefing.

The spokesman said that Lecoq, who will take his new job shortly, brings over 30 years of experience in peace operations, political affairs and development.

Most recently, Lecoq has served as deputy director of the Europe and Central Asia division of UN departments of political and peacebuilding affairs and peace operations from 2019 to 2023.

UNIFIL was first established in 1978 to confirm Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon. After the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel, UNIFIL's mandate was expanded to monitor the cessation of hostilities and to accompany the deployment of Lebanese armed forces throughout southern Lebanon as Israel withdraws its troops.

UNIFIL currently has around 10,500 peacekeepers coming from 48 troop contributing countries, according to information on the mission's website. 
by Hummam Sheikh Ali

DAMASCUS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A shift of attitude and approach toward Syria in the Arab world, most recently seen in their readmitting the country back to the Arab League (AL), could usher in a speedier political settlement of the Syrian crisis, experts say.

Arab foreign ministers decided in an AL extraordinary meeting held in Cairo on Sunday to restore Syria's membership in the league after 12 years of suspension.

The meeting decided to resume "the participation of delegations of the government of Syria in the meetings of the AL council and all its organizations and bodies as of May 7, 2023," read the statement issued by the pan-Arab organization.

The Arab foreign ministers also agreed to intensify efforts "to help Syria out of its crisis."

Restoring Syria's membership at the AL was the focus of last week's foreign ministerial meeting between Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt and Syria in Jordan's capital Amman, as part of the Jordan-initiated Arab normalization process with Syria, whose AL membership was suspended in 2011.

Gulf Cooperation Council states, as well as Jordan, Egypt, and Iraq held a similar ministerial meeting in mid-April in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to discuss Syria's return.

A couple of days after the meeting, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud paid a visit to Damascus, marking the first visit of a Saudi official to Syria in 12 years.

Late on Sunday, the Syrian foreign ministry issued a statement responding to the AL admission, saying "Syria has been following the positive trends and interactions that are currently taking place in the Arab region, and believes that these benefit all Arab countries and favor the stability, security, and well-being of their peoples."

It stressed that the next stage requires a practical and constructive Arab approach based on dialogue, mutual respect, and the common interests of the Arab nation.

Political experts in Syria also read the new development in the Arab arena as a positive and vital shift in the Arab attitude toward Syria and its civil war.

Osama Danura, a political expert, told Xinhua that the change reflects that Arab countries are acknowledging that combating terrorism and rejecting foreign intervention, and other factors are key to the solution of the Syrian crisis.

Danura saw Syria's return to the Arab world as a move that "cuts the road" ahead of foreign intervention, which indicates a good start for constructive economic, social, and political relations among the Arab states themselves and with other regional countries.

"The Arabs could be facilitating in helping Syria reach the political solution, and it would be welcomed here if no foreign agenda was involved," Danura noted.

Since late last year, the wind of change in the region could be felt as a flurry of diplomatic activities to bring Syria back from isolation to the Arab fold have taken place.

The United Arab Emirates has been spearheading the efforts to break the ice between Syria and Saudi Arabia following years of severed ties, and made a breakthrough this year that saw the two countries restoring diplomatic relations and foreign ministers visiting each other.

He expected that the region is unfolding a new stage in which "dismantling the regional clash, restoring the minimum level of the Arab consensus, and achieving a win-win situation" would be the theme.

Mohammad al-Omari, a political expert and writer, told Xinhua that today the Arab countries seem to shelve differences and embark on a new era of understanding and consensus.

He believes Syria is now in the second half of the political solution considering the changes in the Arab world toward Syria.

"The return of Syria to the Arab League doesn't mean resolving the Syrian crisis, but it should facilitate and accelerate the mechanisms of the solution," he said. 
UNITED NATIONS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Looters raided the main offices of the World Food Programme (WFP) in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum over the weekend, days after looting 17,000 metric tons of food from WFP warehouses in the country, a UN spokesman said on Monday.

Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said the UN chief strongly condemned the looting.

"This is the latest violation of humanitarian facilities since the start of the crisis, which is in its fourth week," Haq said. "Most, if not all, United Nations agencies and our humanitarian partners have been impacted by large-scale looting."

Haq said the secretary-general reiterated his call to protect and respect humanitarian workers and facilities in order to save lives.

"The needs of the Sudanese people, who are caught up in a humanitarian catastrophe, must come first," the spokesman said.

He said the latest looting involved office equipment and supplies, including laptops. No value was given. The food looted from warehouses was valued at more than 13 million U.S. dollars.

However, the spokesman said, the UN and its partners are working to expand humanitarian operations. "This includes efforts to move supplies into and around the country, as we respond to rapidly growing needs."

Haq said that in Blue Nile State, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and its partners are supporting health and nutrition programs, including immunizations, screening and treatment for malnutrition, as well as pregnancy care and reproductive health services.

In North Darfur, he said humanitarian partners are supporting health facilities with medicine, water and other items. Twenty healthcare facilities received water, sanitation and hygiene support, with at least 100,000 liters of water brought in by truck.

The spokesman said that in Port Sudan, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Arab Emirates delivered 30 tons of medical supplies containing essential medicine and emergency surgical items to reach 165,000 people through 13 major health facilities. It is WHO's first air delivery to Sudan since the conflict erupted.

Officials authorized customs clearance for 80 tons of medical supplies offloaded in Port Sudan last week, he said. The shipment includes intravenous fluids and supplies for treating traumatic injuries and severe acute malnutrition.

"With more humanitarian shipments expected to arrive in Sudan in the coming days and weeks, we call for customs clearance to be expedited to ensure that life-saving assistance can reach people in need as quickly as possible," said Haq,

He said WFP restarted its operations in Sudan last week to meet the needs of 384,000 pre-existing refugees, host communities and both pre-existing and newly internally displaced people across Gedaref, Gezira, Kassala and White Nile states. It marks the first time WFP provides emergency food assistance in Gezira, where freshly displaced Khartoum families fled the conflict. 
James Burnham's book, The Managerial Revolution, made a considerable stir both in the United States and in this country at the time when it was published, and its main thesis has been so much discussed that a detailed exposition of it is hardly necessary. As shortly as I can summarise it, the thesis is this:

Capitalism is disappearing, but Socialism is not replacing it. What is now arising is a new kind of planned, centralised society which will be neither capitalist nor, in any accepted sense of the word, democratic. The rulers of this new society will be the people who effectively control the means of production: that is, business executives, technicians, bureaucrats and soldiers, lumped together by Burnham, under the name of managers. These people will eliminate the old capitalist class, crush the working class, and so organise society that all power and economic privilege remain in their own hands. Private property rights will be abolished, but common ownership will not be established. The new managerial societies will not consist of a patchwork of small, independent states, but of great super-states grouped round the main industrial centres in Europe, Asia, and America. These super-states will fight among themselves for possession of the remaining uncaptured portions of the earth, but will probably be unable to conquer one another completely. Internally, each society will be hierarchical, with an aristocracy of talent at the top and a mass of semi-slaves at the bottom.

In his next published book, The Machiavellians, Burnham elaborates and also modifies his original statement. The greater part of the book is an exposition of the theories of Machiavelli and of his modern disciples, Mosca, Michels, and Pareto: with doubtful justification, Burnham adds to these the syndicalist writer, Georges Sorel. What Burnham is mainly concerned to show is that a democratic society has never existed and, so far as we can see, never will exist. Society is of its nature oligarchical, and the power of the oligarchy always rests upon force and fraud. Burnham does not deny that good motives may operate in private life, but he maintains that politics consists of the struggle for power, and nothing else. All historical changes finally boil down to the replacement of one ruling class by another. All talk about democracy, liberty, equality, fraternity, all revolutionary movements, all visions of Utopia, or the classless society, or the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, are humbug (not necessarily conscious humbug) covering the ambitions of some new class which is elbowing its way into power. The English Puritans, the Jacobins, the Bolsheviks, were in each case simply power seekers using the hopes of the masses in order to win a privileged position for themselves. Power can sometimes be won or maintained without violence, but never without fraud, because it is necessary to make use of the masses, and the masses would not co-operate if they knew that they were simply serving the purposes of a minority. In each great revolutionary struggle the masses are led on by vague dreams of human brotherhood, and then, when the new ruling class is well established in power, they are thrust back into servitude. This is practically the whole of political history, as Burnham sees it.

Where the second book departs from the earlier one is in asserting that the whole process could be somewhat moralised if the facts were faced more honestly. The Machiavellians is sub-titled Defenders of Freedom. Machiavelli and his followers taught that in politics decency simply does not exist, and, by doing so, Burnham claims, made it possible to conduct political affairs more intelligently and less oppressively. A ruling class which recognised that its real aim was to stay in power would also recognise that it would be more likely to succeed if it served the common good, and might avoid stiffening into a hereditary aristocracy. Burnham lays much stress on Pareto's theory of the circulation of the elites. If it is to stay in power a ruling class must constantly admit suitable recruits from below, so that the ablest men may always be at the top and a new class of power-hungry malcontents cannot come into being. This is likeliest to happen, Burnham considers, in a society which retains democratic habits  that is, where opposition is permitted and certain bodies such as the press and the trade unions can keep their autonomy. Here Burnham undoubtedly contradicts his earlier opinion. In The Managerial Revolution, which was written in 1940, it is taken as a matter of course that managerial Germany is in all ways more efficient than a capitalist democracy such as France or Britain. In the second book, written in 1942, Burnham admits that the Germans might have avoided some of their more serious strategic errors if they had permitted freedom of speech. However, the main thesis is not abandoned. Capitalism is doomed, and Socialism is a dream. If we grasp what is at issue we may guide the course of the managerial revolution to some extent, but that revolution is happening, whether we like it or not. In both books, but especially the earlier one, there is a note of unmistakable relish over the cruelty and wickedness of the processes that are being discussed. Although he reiterates that he is merely setting forth the facts and not stating his own preferences, it is clear that Burnham is fascinated by the spectacle of power, and that his sympathies were with Germany so long as Germany appeared to be winning the war. A more recent essay, Lenin's Heir, published in the Partisan Review about the beginning of 1945, suggests that this sympathy has since been transferred to the USSR. Lenin's Heir, which provoked violent controversy in the American left-wing press, has not yet been reprinted in England, and I must return to it later.

It will be seen that Burnham's theory is not, strictly speaking, a new one. Many earlier writers have foreseen the emergence of a new kind of society, neither capitalist nor Socialist, and probably based upon slavery: though most of them have differed from Burnham in not assuming this development to be inevitable. A good example is Hilaire Belloc's book, The Servile State, published in 1911. The Servile State is written in a tiresome style, and the remedy it suggests (a return to small-scale peasant ownership) is for many reasons impossible: still, it does foretell with remarkable insight the kind of things that have been happening from about 1930 onwards. Chesterton, in a less methodical way, predicted the disappearance of democracy and private property, and the rise of a slave society which might be called either capitalist or Communist. Jack London, in The Iron Heel (1909), foretold some of the essential features of Fascism, and such books as Wells's The Sleeper Awakes (1900), Zamyatin's WE (1923), and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World (1930), all described imaginary worlds in which the special problems of capitalism had been solved without bringing liberty, equality, or true happiness any nearer. More recently, writers like Peter Drucker and F.A. Voigt have argued that Fascism and Communism are substantially the same thing. And indeed, it has always been obvious that a planned and centralised society is liable to develop into an oligarchy or a dictatorship. Orthodox Conservatives were unable to see this, because it comforted them to assume that Socialism wouldn't work, and that the disappearance of capitalism would mean chaos and anarchy. Orthodox Socialists could not see it, because they wished to think that they themselves would soon be in power, and therefore assumed that when capitalism disappears, Socialism takes its place. As a result they were unable to foresee the rise of Fascism, or to make correct predictions about it after it had appeared. Later, the need to justify the Russian dictatorship and to explain away the obvious resemblances between Communism and Nazism clouded the issue still more. But the notion that industrialism must end in monopoly, and that monopoly must imply tyranny, is not a startling one.

Where Burnham differs from most other thinkers is in trying to plot the course of the managerial revolution accurately on a world scale, and in assuming that the drift towards totalitarianism is irresistible and must not be fought against, though it may be guided. According to Burnham, writing in 1940, managerialism has reached its fullest development in the USSR, but is almost equally well developed in Germany, and has made its appearance in the United States. He describes the New Deal as primitive managerialism. But the trend is the same everywhere, or almost everywhere. Always laissez-faire capitalism gives way to planning and state interference, the mere owner loses power as against the technician and the bureaucrat, but Socialism  that is to say, what used to be called Socialism  shows no sign of emerging:

Some apologists try to excuse Marxism by saying that it has never had a chance. This is far from the truth. Marxism and the Marxist parties have had dozens of chances. In Russia, a Marxist party took power. Within a short time it abandoned Socialism; if not in words, at any rate in the effect of its actions. In most European nations there were during the last months of the first world war and the years immediately thereafter, social crises which left a wide-open door for the Marxist parties: without exception they proved unable to take and hold power. In a large number of countries  Germany, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, England, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, France  the reformist Marxist parties have administered the governments, and have uniformly failed to introduce Socialism or make any genuine step towards Socialism... These parties have, in practice, at every historical test  and there have been many  either failed Socialism or abandoned it. This is the fact which neither the bitterest foe nor the most ardent friend of Socialism can erase. This fact does not, as some think, prove anything about the moral quality of the Socialist ideal. But it does constitute unblinkable evidence that, whatever its moral quality, Socialism is not going to come.

Burnham does not, of course, deny that the new managerial regimes, like the regimes of Russia and Nazi Germany, may be called Socialist. He means merely that they will not be Socialist in any sense of the word which would have been accepted by Marx, or Lenin, or Keir Hardie, or William Morris, or indeed, by any representative Socialist prior to about 1930. Socialism, until recently, was supposed to connote political democracy, social equality and internationalism. There is not the smallest sign that any of these things is in a way to being established anywhere, and the one great country in which something described as a proletarian revolution once happened, i. e. the USSR, has moved steadily away from the old concept of a free and equal society aiming at universal human brotherhood. In an almost unbroken progress since the early days of the Revolution, liberty has been chipped away and representative institutions smothered, while inequalities have increased and nationalism and militarism have grown stronger. But at the same time, Burnham insists, there has been no tendency to return to capitalism. What is happening is simply the growth of managerialism, which, according to Burnham, is in progress everywhere, though the manner in which it comes about may vary from country to country.

Now, as an interpretation of what is happening, Burnham's theory is extremely plausible, to put it at the lowest. The events of, at any rate, the last fifteen years in the USSR can be far more easily explained by this theory than by any other. Evidently the USSR is not Socialist, and can only be called Socialist if one gives the word a meaning different from what it would have in any other context. On the other hand, prophecies that the Russian regime would revert to capitalism have always been falsified, and now seem further than ever from being fulfilled. In claiming that the process had gone almost equally far in Nazi Germany, Burnham probably exaggerates, but it seems certain that the drift was away from old-style capitalism and towards a planned economy with an adoptive oligarchy in control. In Russia the capitalists were destroyed first and the workers were crushed later. In Germany the workers were crushed first, but the elimination of the capitalists had at any rate begun, and calculations based on the assumption that Nazism was simply capitalism were always contradicted by events. Where Burnham seems to go most astray is in believing managerialism to be on the up-grade in the United States, the one great country where free capitalism is still vigorous. But if one considers the world movement as a whole, his conclusions are difficult to resist; and even in the United States the all-prevailing faith in laissez-faire may not survive the next great economic crisis. It has been urged against Burnham that he assigns far too much importance to the managers, in the narrow sense of the word-that is, factory bosses, planners and technicians  and seems to assume that even in Soviet Russia it is these people, and not the Communist Party chiefs, who are the real holders of power. However, this is a secondary error, and it is partially corrected in The Machiavellians. The real question is not whether the people who wipe their boots on us during the next fifty years are to be called managers, bureaucrats, or politicians: the question is whether capitalism, now obviously doomed, is to give way to oligarchy or to true democracy.

But curiously enough, when one examines the predictions which Burnham has based on his general theory, one finds that in so far as they are verifiable, they have been falsified. Numbers of people have pointed this out already. However, it is worth following up Burnham's predictions in detail, because they form a sort of pattern which is related to contemporary events, and which reveals, I believe, a very important weakness in present-day political thought.

To begin with, writing in 1940, Burnham takes a German victory more or less for granted. Britain is described as dissolving, and as displaying all the characteristics which have distinguished decadent cultures in past historical transitions, while the conquest and integration of Europe which Germany achieved in 1940 is described as irreversible. England, writes Burnham, no matter with what non-European allies, cannot conceivably hope to conquer the European continent. Even if Germany should somehow manage to lose the war, she could not be dismembered or reduced to the status of the Weimar Republic, but is bound to remain as the nucleus of a unified Europe. The future map of the world, with its three great super-states is, in any case, already settled in its main outlines: and the nuclei of these three super-states are, whatever may be their future names, the previously existing nations, Japan, Germany, and the United States.

Burnham also commits himself to the opinion that Germany will not attack the USSR until after Britain has been defeated. In a condensation of his book published in the Partisan Review of May-June 1941, and presumably written later than the book itself, he says:

As in the case of Russia, so with Germany, the third part of the managerial problem  the contest for dominance with other sections of managerial society  remains for the future. First had to come the death-blow that assured the toppling of the capitalist world order, which meant above all the destruction of the foundations of the British Empire (the keystone of the capitalist world order) both directly and through the smashing of the European political structure, which was a necessary prop of the Empire. This is the basic explanation of the Nazi-Soviet Pact, which is not intelligible on other grounds. The future conflict between Germany and Russia will be a managerial conflict proper; prior to the great world-managerial battles, the end of the capitalist order must be assured. The belief that Nazism is decadent capitalism ... makes it impossible to explain reasonably the Nazi-Soviet Pact. From this belief followed the always expected war between Germany and Russia, not the actual war to the death between Germany and the British Empire. The war between Germany and Russia is one of the managerial wars of the future, not of the anti-capitalist wars of yesterday and today.

However, the attack on Russia will come later, and Russia is certain, or almost certain, to be defeated. There is every reason to believe ... that Russia will split apart, with the western half gravitating towards the European base and the eastern towards the Asiatic. This quotation comes from The Managerial Revolution. In the above quoted article, written probably about six months later, it is put more forcibly: the Russian weaknesses indicate that Russia will not be able to endure, that it will crack apart, and fall towards east and west. And in a supplementary note which was added to the English (Pelican) edition, and which appears to have been written at the end of 1941, Burnham speaks as though the cracking apart process were already happening. The war, he says, is part of the means whereby the western half of Russia is being integrated into the European super-state.

Sorting these various statements out, we have the following prophecies:

Germany is bound to win the war. Germany and Japan are bound to survive as great states, and to remain the nuclei of power in their respective areas. Germany will not attack the USSR until after the defeat of Britain. The USSR is bound to be defeated.

However, Burnham has made other predictions besides these. In a short article in the Partisan Review, in the summer of 1944, he gives his opinion that the USSR will gang up with Japan in order to prevent the total defeat of the latter, while the American Communists will be set to work to sabotage the eastern end of the war. And finally, in an article in the same magazine in the winter of 1944-5, he claims that Russia, destined so short a while ago to crack apart, is within sight of conquering the whole of Eurasia. This article, which was the cause of violent controversies among the American intelligentsia, has not been reprinted in England. I must give some account of it here, because its manner of approach and its emotional tone are of a peculiar kind, and by studying them one can get nearer to the real roots of Burnham's theory.

The article is entitled Lenin's Heir, and it sets out to show that Stalin is the true and legitimate guardian of the Russian Revolution, which he has not in any sense betrayed but has merely carried forward on lines that were implicit in it from the start. In itself, this is an easier opinion to swallow than the usual Trotskyist claim that Stalin is a mere crook who has perverted the Revolution to his own ends, and that things would somehow have been different if Lenin had lived or Trotsky had remained in power. Actually there is no strong reason for thinking that the main lines of development would have been very different. Well before 1923 the seeds of a totalitarian society were quite plainly there. Lenin, indeed, is one of those politicians who win an undeserved reputation by dying prematurely. (1) Had he lived, it is probable that he would either have been thrown out, like Trotsky, or would have kept himself in power by methods as barbarous, or nearly as barbarous, as those of Stalin. The title of Burnham's essay, therefore, sets forth a reasonable thesis, and one would expect him to support it by an appeal to the facts.

However, the essay barely touches upon its ostensible subject matter. It is obvious that anyone genuinely concerned to show that there has been continuity of policy as between Lenin and Stalin would start by outlining Lenin's policy and then explain in what way Stalin's has resembled it. Burnham does not do this. Except for one or two cursory sentences he says nothing about Lenin's policy, and Lenin's name only occurs five times in an essay of twelve pages: in the first seven pages, apart from the title, it does not occur at all. The real aim of the essay is to present Stalin as a towering, super-human figure, indeed a species of demigod, and Bolshevism as an irresistible force which is flowing over the earth and cannot be halted until it reaches the outermost borders of Eurasia. In so far as he makes any attempt to prove his case, Burnham does so by repeating over and over again that Stalin is a great man  which is probably true, but is almost completely irrelevant. Moreover, though he does advance some solid arguments for believing in Stalin's genius, it is clear that in his mind the idea of greatness is inextricably mixed up with the idea of cruelty and dishonesty. There are curious passages in which it seems to be suggested that Stalin is to be admired because of the limitless suffering that he has caused:

Stalin proves himself a great man, in the grand style. The accounts of the banquets, staged in Moscow for the visiting dignitaries, set the symbolic tone. With their enormous menus of sturgeon, and roasts, and fowl, and sweets; their streams of liquor; the scores of toasts with which they end; the silent, unmoving secret police behind each guest; all against the winter background of the starving multitudes of besieged Leningrad; the dying millions at the front; the jammed concentration camps; the city crowds kept by their minute rations just at the edge of life; there is little trace of dull mediocrity or the hand of Babbitt. We recognise, rather, the tradition of the most spectacular of the Tsars, of the Great Kings of the Medes and Persians, of the Khanate of the Golden Horde, of the banquet we assign to the gods of the Heroic Ages in tribute to the insight that insolence, and indifference, and brutality on such a scale remove beings from the human level... Stalin's political techniques shows a freedom from conventional restrictions that is incompatible with mediocrity: the mediocre man is custombound. Often it is the scale of their operations that sets them apart. It is usual, for example, for men active in practical life to engineer an occasional frame-up. But to carry out a frame-up against tens of thousands of persons, important percentages of whole strata of society, including most of one's own comrades, is so far out of the ordinary that the long-run mass conclusion is either that the frame-up must be true  at least have some truth in it  or that power so immense must be submitted to is a historical necessity, as intellectuals put it... There is nothing unexpected in letting a few individuals starve for reasons of state; but to starve by deliberate decision, several millions, is a type of action attributed ordinarily only to gods.

In these and other similar passages there may be a tinge of irony, but it is difficult not to feel that there is also a sort of fascinated admiration. Towards the end of the essay Burnham compares Stalin with those semi-mythical heroes, like Moses or Asoka, who embody in themselves a whole epoch, and can justly be credited with feats that they did not actually perform. In writing of Soviet foreign policy and its supposed objectives, he touches an even more mystical note:

Starting from the magnetic core of the Eurasian heartland, the Soviet power, like the reality of the One of Neo-Platonism overflowing in the descending series of the emanative progression, flows outward, west into Europe, south into the Near East, east into China, already lapping the shores of the Atlantic, the Yellow and China Seas, the Mediterranean, and the Persian Gulf. As the undifferentiated One, in its progression, descends through the stages of Mind, Soul, and Matter, and then through its fatal Return back to itself; so does the Soviet power, emanating from the integrally totalitarian centre, proceed outwards by Absorption (the Baltics, Bessarabia, Bukovina, East Poland), Domination (Finland, the Balkans, Mongolia, North China and, tomorrow, Germany), Orienting Influence (Italy, France, Turkey, Iran, Central and south China...), until it is dissipated in MH ON, the outer material sphere, beyond the Eurasian boundaries, of momentary Appeasement and Infiltration (England, the United States).

I do not think it is fanciful to suggest that the unnecessary capital letters with which this passage is loaded are intended to have a hypnotic effect on the reader. Burnham is trying to build up a picture of terrifying, irresistible power, and to turn a normal political manoeuvre like infiltration into Infiltration adds to the general portentousness. The essay should be read in full. Although it is not the kind of tribute that the average russophile would consider acceptable, and although Burnham himself would probably claim that he is being strictly objective, he is in effect performing an act of homage, and even of self-abasement. Meanwhile, this essay gives us another prophecy to add to the list: i. e. that the USSR will conquer the whole of Eurasia, and probably a great deal more. And one must remember that Burnham's basic theory contains, in itself, a prediction which still has to be tested  that is, that whatever else happens, the managerial form of society is bound to prevail.

Burnham's earlier prophecy, of a Germany victory in the war and the integration of Europe round the German nucleus, was falsified, not only in its main outlines, but in some important details. Burnham insists all the way through that managerialism is not only more efficient than capitalist democracy or Marxian Socialism, but also more acceptable to the masses. The slogans of democracy and national self-determination, he says, no longer have any mass appeal: managerialism, on the other hand, can rouse enthusiasm, produce intelligible war aims, establish fifth columns everywhere, and inspire its soldiers with a fanatical morale. The fanaticism of the Germans, as against the apathy or indifference of the British, French, etc, is much emphasised, and Nazism is represented as a revolutionary force sweeping across Europe and spreading its philosophy by contagion. The Nazi fifth columns cannot be wiped out, and the democratic nations are quite incapable of projecting any settlement which the German or other European masses would prefer to the New Order. In any case, the democracies can only defeat Germany if they go still further along the managerial road than Germany has yet gone.

The germ of truth in all this is that the smaller European states, demoralised by the chaos and stagnation of the pre-war years, collapsed rather more quickly than they need have done, and might conceivably have accepted the New Order if the Germans had kept some of their promises. But the actual experience of German rule aroused almost at once such a fury of hatred and vindictiveness as the world has seldom seen. After about the beginning of 1941 there was hardly any need of a positive war aim, since getting rid of the Germans was a sufficient objective. The question of morale, and its relation to national solidarity, is a nebulous one, and the evidence can be so manipulated as to prove almost anything. But if one goes by the proportion of prisoners to other casualties, and the amount of quislingism, the totalitarian states come out of the comparison worse than the democracies. Hundreds of thousands of Russians appear to have gone over to the Germans during the course of the war, while comparable numbers of Germans and Italians had gone over to the Allies before the war started: the corresponding number of American or British renegades would have amounted to a few scores. As an example of the inability of capitalist ideologies to enlist support, Burnham cites the complete failure of voluntary military recruiting in England (as well as the entire British Empire) and in the United States. One would gather from this that the armies of the totalitarian states were manned by volunteers. Actually, no totalitarian state has ever so much as considered voluntary recruitment for any purpose, nor, throughout history, has a large army ever been raised by voluntary means. (2) It is not worth listing the many similar arguments that Burnham puts forward. The point is that he assumes that the Germans must win the propaganda war as well as the military one, and that, at any rate in Europe, this estimate was not borne out by events.

It will be seen that Burnham's predictions have not merely, when they were verifiable, turned out to be wrong, but that they have sometimes contradicted one another in a sensational way. It is this last fact that is significant. Political predictions are usually wrong, because they are usually based on wish-thinking, but they can have symptomatic value, especially when they change abruptly. Often the revealing factor is the date at which they are made. Dating Burnham's various writings as accurately as can be done from internal evidence, and then noting what events they coincided with, we find the following relationships:

In The Managerial Revolution Burnham prophesies a German victory, postponement of the Russo-German war until after Britain is defeated, and, subsequently, the defeat of Russia. The book, or much of it, was written in the second half of 1940  i. e. at a time when the Germans had overrun western Europe and were bombing Britain, and the Russians were collaborating with them fairly closely, and in what appeared, at any rate, to be a spirit of appeasement.

In the supplementary note added to the English edition of the book, Burnham appears to assume that the USSR is already beaten and the splitting-up process is about to begin. This was published in the spring of 1942 and presumably written at the end of 1941; i. e. when the Germans were in the suburbs of Moscow.

The prediction that Russia would gang up with Japan against the USA was written early in 1944, soon after the conclusion of a new Russo-Japanese treaty.

The prophecy of Russian world conquest was written in the winter of 1944, when the Russians were advancing rapidly in eastern Europe while the Western Allies were still held up in Italy and northern France.

It will be seen that at each point Burnham is predicting a continuation of the thing that is happening. Now the tendency to do this is not simply a bad habit, like inaccuracy or exaggeration, which one can correct by taking thought. It is a major mental disease, and its roots lie partly in cowardice and partly in the worship of power, which is not fully separable from cowardice.

Suppose in 1940 you had taken a Gallup poll, in England, on the question Will Germany win the war? You would have found, curiously enough, that the group answering Yes contained a far higher percentage of intelligent people  people with IQ of over 120, shall we say  than the group answering No. The same would have held good in the middle of 1942. In this case the figures would not have been so striking, but if you had made the question Will the Germans capture Alexandria? or Will the Japanese be able to hold on to the territories they have captured?, then once again there would have been a very marked tendency for intelligence to concentrate in the Yes group. In every case the less-gifted person would have been likelier to give a right answer.

If one went simply by these instances, one might assume that high intelligence and bad military judgement always go together. However, it is not so simple as that. The English intelligentsia, on the whole, were more defeatist than the mass of the people  and some of them went on being defeatist at a time when the war was quite plainly won  partly because they were better able to visualise the dreary years of warfare that lay ahead. Their morale was worse because their imaginations were stronger. The quickest way of ending a war is to lose it, and if one finds the prospect of a long war intolerable, it is natural to disbelieve in the possibility of victory. But there was more to it than that. There was also the disaffection of large numbers of intellectuals, which made it difficult for them not to side with any country hostile to Britain. And deepest of all, there was admiration  though only in a very few cases conscious admiration  for the power, energy, and cruelty of the Nazi regime. It would be a useful though tedious labour to go through the left-wing press and enumerate all the hostile references to Nazism during the years 1935-45. One would find, I have little doubt, that they reached their high-water mark in 1937-8 and 1944-5, and dropped off noticeably in the years 1939-42  that is, during the period when Germany seemed to be winning. One would find, also, the same people advocating a compromise peace in 1940 and approving the dismemberment of Germany in 1945. And if one studied the reactions of the English intelligentsia towards the USSR, there, too, one would find genuinely progressive impulses mixed up with admiration for power and cruelty. It would be grossly unfair to suggest that power worship is the only motive for russophile feeling, but it is one motive, and among intellectuals it is probably the strongest one.

Power worship blurs political judgement because it leads, almost unavoidably, to the belief that present trends will continue. Whoever is winning at the moment will always seem to be invincible. If the Japanese have conquered south Asia, then they will keep south Asia for ever, if the Germans have captured Tobruk, they will infallibly capture Cairo; if the Russians are in Berlin, it will not be long before they are in London: and so on. This habit of mind leads also to the belief that things will happen more quickly, completely, and catastrophically than they ever do in practice. The rise and fall of empires, the disappearance of cultures and religions, are expected to happen with earthquake suddenness, and processes which have barely started are talked about as though they were already at an end. Burnham's writings are full of apocalyptic visions. Nations, governments, classes and social systems are constantly described as expanding, contracting, decaying, dissolving, toppling, crashing, crumbling, crystallising, and, in general, behaving in an unstable and melodramatic way. The slowness of historical change, the fact that any epoch always contains a great deal of the last epoch, is never sufficiently allowed for. Such a manner of thinking is bound to lead to mistaken prophecies, because, even when it gauges the direction of events rightly, it will miscalculate their tempo. Within the space of five years Burnham foretold the domination of Russia by Germany and of Germany by Russia. In each case he was obeying the same instinct: the instinct to bow down before the conqueror of the moment, to accept the existing trend as irreversible. With this in mind one can criticise his theory in a broader way.

The mistakes I have pointed out do not disprove Burnham's theory, but they do cast light on his probable reasons for holding it. In this connection one cannot leave out of account the fact that Burnham is an American. Every political theory has a certain regional tinge about it, and every nation, every culture, has its own characteristic prejudices and patches of ignorance. There are certain problems that must almost inevitably be seen in a different perspective according to the geographical situation from which one is looking at them. Now, the attitude that Burnham adopts, of classifying Communism and Fascism as much the same thing, and at the same time accepting both of them  or, at any rate, not assuming that either must be violently struggled against  is essentially an American attitude, and would be almost impossible for an Englishman or any other western European. English writers who consider Communism and Fascism to be the same thing invariably hold that both are monstrous evils which must be fought to the death: on the other hand, any Englishman who believes Communism and Fascism to be opposites will feel that he ought to side with one or the other. (3) The reason for this difference of outlook is simple enough and, as usual, is bound up with wish-thinking. If totalitarianism triumphs and the dreams of the geopoliticians come true, Britain will disappear as a world power and the whole of western Europe will be swallowed by some single great state. This is not a prospect that it is easy for an Englishman to contemplate with detachment. Either he does not want Britain to disappear  in which case he will tend to construct theories proving the thing that he wants-or, like a minority of intellectuals, he will decide that his country is finished and transfer his allegiance to some foreign power. An American does not have to make the same choice. Whatever happens, the United States will survive as a great power, and from the American point of view it does not make much difference whether Europe is dominated by Russia or by Germany. Most Americans who think of the matter at all would prefer to see the world divided between two or three monster states which had reached their natural boundaries and could bargain with one another on economic issues without being troubled by ideological differences. Such a world-picture fits in with the American tendency to admire size for its own sake and to feel that success constitutes justification, and it fits in with the all-prevailing anti-British sentiment. In practice, Britain and the United States have twice been forced into alliance against Germany, and will probably, before long, be forced into alliance against Russia: but, subjectively, a majority of Americans would prefer either Russia or Germany to Britain, and, as between Russia and Germany, would prefer whichever seemed stronger at the moment. (4) It is, therefore, not surprising that Burnham's world-view should often be noticeably close to that of the American imperialists on the one side, or to that of the isolationists on the other. It is a tough or realistic worldview which fits in with the American form of wish-thinking. The almost open admiration for Nazi methods which Burnham shows in the earlier of his two books, and which would seem shocking to almost any English reader, depends ultimately on the fact that the Atlantic is wider than the Channel.

As I have said earlier, Burnham has probably been more right than wrong about the present and the immediate past. For quite fifty years past the general drift has almost certainly been towards oligarchy. The ever-increasing concentration of industrial and financial power; the diminishing importance of the individual capitalist or shareholder, and the growth of the new managerial class of scientists, technicians, and bureaucrats; the weakness of the proletariat against the centralised state; the increasing helplessness of small countries against big ones; the decay of representative institutions and the appearance of one-party regimes based on police terrorism, faked plebiscites, etc: all these things seem to point in the same direction. Burnham sees the trend and assumes that it is irresistible, rather as a rabbit fascinated by a boa constrictor might assume that a boa constrictor is the strongest thing in the world. When one looks a little deeper, one sees that all his ideas rest upon two axioms which are taken for granted in the earlier book and made partly explicit in the second one. They are:

Politics is essentially the same in all ages. Political behaviour is different from other kinds of behaviour.

To take the second point first. In The Machiavellians, Burnham insists that politics is simply the struggle for power. Every great social movement, every war, every revolution, every political programme, however edifying and Utopian, really has behind it the ambitions of some sectional group which is out to grab power for itself. Power can never be restrained by any ethical or religious code, but only by other power. The nearest possible approach to altruistic behaviour is the perception by a ruling group that it will probably stay in power longer if it behaves decently. But curiously enough, these generalisations only apply to political behaviour, not to any other kind of behaviour. In everyday life, as Burnham sees and admits, one cannot explain every human action by applying the principle of cui bono? Obviously, human beings have impulses which are not selfish. Man, therefore, is an animal that can act morally when he acts as an individual, but becomes immoral when he acts collectively. But even this generalisation only holds good for the higher groups. The masses, it seems, have vague aspirations towards liberty and human brotherhood, which are easily played upon by power-hungry individuals or minorities. So that history consists of a series of swindles, in which the masses are first lured into revolt by the promise of Utopia, and then, when they have done their job, enslaved over again by new masters.

Political activity, therefore, is a special kind of behaviour, characterised by its complete unscrupulousness, and occurring only among small groups of the population, especially among dissatisfied groups whose talents do not get free play under the existing form of society. The great mass of the people  and this is where (2) ties up with (1)  will always be unpolitical. In effect, therefore, humanity is divided into two classes: the self-seeking, hypocritical minority, and the brainless mob whose destiny is always to be led or driven, as one gets a pig back to the sty by kicking it on the bottom or by rattling a stick inside a swill-bucket, according to the needs of the moment. And this beautiful pattern is to continue for ever. Individuals may pass from one category to another, whole classes may destroy other classes and rise to the dominant position, but the division of humanity into rulers and ruled is unalterable. In their capabilities, as in their desires and needs, men are not equal. There is an iron law of oligarchy, which would operate even if democracy were not impossible for mechanical reasons.

It is curious that in all his talk about the struggle for power, Burnham never stops to ask why people want power. He seems to assume that power hunger, although only dominant in comparatively few people, is a natural instinct that does not have to be explained, like the desire for food. He also assumes that the division of society into classes serves the same purpose in all ages. This is practically to ignore the history of hundreds of years. When Burnham's master, Machiavelli, was writing, class divisions were not only unavoidable, but desirable. So long as methods of production were primitive, the great mass of the people were necessarily tied down to dreary, exhausting manual labour: and a few people had to be set free from such labour, otherwise civilisation could not maintain itself, let alone make any progress. But since the arrival of the machine the whole pattern has altered. The justification for class distinctions, if there is a justification, is no longer the same, because there is no mechanical reason why the average human being should continue to be a drudge. True, drudgery persists; class distinctions are probably re-establishing themselves in a new form, and individual liberty is on the down-grade: but as these developments are now technically avoidable, they must have some psychological cause which Burnham makes no attempt to discover. The question that he ought to ask, and never does ask, is: Why does the lust for naked power become a major human motive exactly now, when the dominion of man over man is ceasing to be necessary? As for the claim that human nature, or inexorable laws of this and that, make Socialism impossible, it is simply a projection of the past into the future. In effect, Burnham argues that because a society of free and equal human beings has never existed, it never can exist. By the same argument one could have demonstrated the impossibility of aeroplanes in 1900, or of motor cars in 1850.

The notion that the machine has altered human relationships, and that in consequence Machiavelli is out of date, is a very obvious one. If Burnham fails to deal with it, it can, I think, only be because his own power instinct leads him to brush aside any suggestion that the Machiavellian world of force, fraud, and tyranny may somehow come to an end. It is important to bear in mind what I said above: that Burnham's theory is only a variant  an American variant, and interesting because of its comprehensiveness  of the power worship now so prevalent among intellectuals. A more normal variant, at any rate in England, is Communism. If one examines the people who, having some idea of what the Russian regime is like, are strongly russophile, one finds that, on the whole, they belong to the managerial class of which Burnham writes. That is, they are not managers in the narrow sense, but scientists, technicians, teachers, journalists, broadcasters, bureaucrats, professional politicians: in general, middling people who feel themselves cramped by a system that is still partly aristocratic, and are hungry for more power and more prestige. These people look towards the USSR and see in it, or think they see, a system which eliminates the upper class, keeps the working class in its place, and hands unlimited power to people very similar to themselves. It was only after the Soviet regime became unmistakably totalitarian that English intellectuals, in large numbers, began to show an interest in it. Burnham, although the English russophile intelligentsia would repudiate him, is really voicing their secret wish: the wish to destroy the old, equalitarian version of Socialism and usher in a hierarchical society where the intellectual can at last get his hands on the whip. Burnham at least has the honesty to say that Socialism isn't coming; the others merely say that Socialism is coming, and then give the word Socialism a new meaning which makes nonsense of the old one. But his theory, for all its appearance of objectivity, is the rationalisation of a wish. There is no strong reason for thinking that it tells us anything about the future, except perhaps the immediate future. It merely tells us what kind of world the managerial class themselves, or at least the more conscious and ambitious members of the class, would like to live in.

Fortunately the managers are not so invincible as Burnham believes. It is curious how persistently, in The Managerial Revolution, he ignores the advantages, military as well as social, enjoyed by a democratic country. At every point the evidence is squeezed in order to show the strength, vitality, and durability of Hitler's crazy regime. Germany is expanding rapidly, and rapid territorial expansion has always been a sign, not of decadence ... but of renewal. Germany makes war successfully, and the ability to make war well is never a sign of decadence but of its opposite. Germany also inspires in millions of persons a fanatical loyalty. This, too, never accompanies decadence. Even the cruelty and dishonesty of the Nazi regime are cited in its favour, since the young, new, rising social order is, as against the old, more likely to resort on a large scale to lies, terror, persecution. Yet, within only five years this young, new, rising social order had smashed itself to pieces and become, in Burnham's usage of the word, decadent. And this had happened quite largely because of the managerial (i. e. undemocratic) structure which Burnham admires. The immediate cause of the German defeat was the unheard-of folly of attacking the USSR while Britain was still undefeated and America was manifestly getting ready to fight. Mistakes of this magnitude can only be made, or at any rate they are most likely to be made, in countries where public opinion has no power. So long as the common man can get a hearing, such elementary rules as not fighting all your enemies simultaneously are less likely to be violated.

But, in any case, one should have been able to see from the start that such a movement as Nazism could not produce any good or stable result. Actually, so long as they were winning, Burnham seems to have seen nothing wrong with the methods of the Nazis. Such methods, he says, only appear wicked because they are new:

There is no historical law that polite manners and Justice shall conquer. In history there is always the question of whose manners and whose justice. A rising social class and a new order of society have got to break through the old moral codes just as they must break through the old economic and political institutions. Naturally, from the point of view of the old, they are monsters. If they win, they take care in due time of manners and morals.

This implies that literally anything can become right or wrong if the dominant class of the moment so wills it. It ignores the fact that certain rules of conduct have to be observed if human society is to hold together at all Burnham, therefore, was unable to see that the crimes and follies of the Nazi regime must lead by one route or another to disaster. So also with his new-found admiration for Stalinism. It is too early to say in just what way the Russian regime will destroy itself. If I had to make a prophecy, I should say that a continuation of the Russian policies of the last fifteen years  and internal and external policy, of course, are merely two facets of the same thing  can only lead to a war conducted with atomic bombs, which will make Hitler's invasion look like a tea-party. But at any rate, the Russian regime will either democratise itself, or it will perish. The huge, invincible, everlasting slave empire of which Burnham appears to dream will not be established, or, if established, will not endure, because slavery is no longer a stable basis for human society.

One cannot always make positive prophecies, but there are times when one ought to be able to make negative ones. No one could have been expected to foresee the exact results of the Treaty of Versailles, but millions of thinking people could and did foresee that those results would be bad. Plenty of people, though not so many in this case, can foresee that the results of the settlement now being forced on Europe will also be bad. And to refrain from admiring Hitler or Stalin  that, too, should not require an enormous intellectual effort.

But it is partly a moral effort. That a man of Burnham's gifts should have been able for a while to think of Nazism as something rather admirable, something that could and probably would build up a workable and durable social order, shows what damage is done to the sense of reality by the cultivation of what is now called realism.

1946
URBANA  Eastern Illinois Foodbank, the primary food source to feeding programs in eastern Illinois, is marking 40 years of alleviating hunger this May.

Eastern Illinois Foodbank was formed as part of a major regional effort to develop an emergency food network in Central Illinois.

In 1980, a group of 20 local citizens met in Springfield to form a food distribution network that eventually became three independent food banks: Central Illinois Foodbank in Springfield, Peoria Area Foodbank and Eastern Illinois Foodbank. In May 1983, Eastern Illinois Foodbank was incorporated, and the following month the food bank opened its doors in downtown Champaign.

Today, Eastern Illinois Foodbank serves 18 counties, including the Central Illinois counties of McLean, Woodford, Livingston, Ford, DeWitt, Piatt, Moultrie, Coles and Cumberland.

When former EIF board chair Vern Fein was asked to join the meeting in 1980, he originally declined, but had a change of heart when he came across a magazine in his office.

"I read that the Detroit Foodbank had recovered 9,000 pounds of frozen butter beans that were spilled on a railroad track due to a collision, and quickly distributed them to those in need. I changed my mind at once and plunged into helping start the foodbank," Fein said.

Today, EIF is the largest hunger relief organization in eastern Illinois, serving more than 1 million neighbors each year through a network of 170 partner agencies. EIF recently completed a capital campaign allowing it to expand into a warehouse adjoined to the original facility, enabling the food bank to increase efficiency, accommodate more nutritious and fresh products, and extend the number of people serves.

The EIF will be marking this milestone with a celebration in September during Hunger Action Month. The event will recognize individuals and organizations in the community who have had an impact on EIF's mission of alleviating hunger.

"What the foodbank has accomplished is a reflection of our community. Without their support, we wouldn't have been able to fulfill our mission for the past 40 years," said President and CEO Kelly Daly. "Though so much has changed over the years, the one constant has been the dedication of our volunteers, donors, board, staff and community partners. That is what ensures we are able to meet the growing needs of eastern Illinois and will continue to be a vital resource for years to come."

EIF is a member of Feeding America, Feeding Illinois, the United Way of Coles County and the United Way of Champaign County.

For more information, visit eifoodbank.org.

Photos: Multiple crashes lock traffic on Interstate 55
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is May 13

BLOOMINGTON  The National Association of Letter Carriers will host its annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday.

Nonperishable food items can be placed in a bag by your mailbox and the mail carrier will pick it up.

All donations will go to local food banks.

Participants sought for Miss Ford County Fair Pageant

LODA  The Miss Ford County Fair Pageant will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, June 26, at the fairgrounds in Melvin.

Those interested in participating must be at least 16 years old and no older than 21 by Jan. 1, 2024.

Contestants also must live in Ford County, currently attend or be a graduate of a Ford County school, or be a participant in Ford County 4-H-sponsored activities.

An informational meeting will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at the Wall Township Building, 899 N. Illinois 115, Loda, for those interested in competing.

The queen will win scholarship money as well as an all-expenses-paid trip to the state pageant in Springfield in January.

Contact missfordcounty@gmail.com, 217-649-1540 or 217-898-6102 for more information.

Diabetes Clinic set for May 18

EUREKA  The University of Illinois Extension will host its monthly diabetes clinic, with the topic of "Smart Snacking," from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at the United Methodist Church, 208 N. Callender St., Eureka.

Attendees reflect on snacking behaviors and learn how to make smart snacking decisions.

The clinics are informal, but the programs are specifically designed for those living with diabetes.

The program is free and registration is not required.

Visit go.illinois.edu/LMW or contact 309-663-8306 or jesmith6@illinois.edu for more information.

Land of Lincoln Honor Flight takes off May 16

SPRINGFIELD  The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight Mission #66 will take off Tuesday, May 16, with 4 Korean-era veterans and 87 Vietnam-era veterans.

They will report to Springfield Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport from 61 Illinois towns, including Argenta, Bloomington, Casey, Charleston, Clinton, Decatur, Effingham, Forrest, Lincoln, Loda, Macon, Monticello, Normal, Oakley, Pana and Sullivan in Central Illinois.

The 91 veterans and 85 guardians will arrive at the airport at 4 a.m. May 16 and fly to Washington, D.C., to visit the World War II Korean and Vietnam War memorials as well as Arlington National Cemetery Tomb of the Unknowns, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Air & Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia, the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial, and the U.S. Air Force Memorial.

The day is provided to the veterans at no cost. They will returned to the Springfield airport at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The general public, friends, family and Honor Flight alumni veterans are encouraged to come to the airport to welcome home the veterans.

Parking is free and volunteers will be in the parking area to assist guests to open spaces. There will be a shuttle bus to take volunteers directly to the airport terminal door.

Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market moves outdoors for the season FARM FRESH Mullins 1 Mullins 2 Hinkles Belle
CHICAGO  Four people were arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of an off-duty Chicago police officer early Saturday, according to police sources with knowledge of the investigation.

The four persons of interest  two men and two women  were brought into custody after an hourslong standoff with police in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood, one source familiar with the situation said.

No one had been charged as of Monday morning. Investigators believe the group was involved in the fatal shooting of 24-year-old police Officer Areanah Preston, sources said, who was shot and killed outside her home early Saturday after finishing her shift in the Police Departments Calumet District on the Far South Side. She was a 2019 graduate of Illinois State University.

Representatives for the Chicago Police Department would not comment on the arrests Monday morning. A department spokesperson, however, said the CPD had classified Prestons as a line-of-duty death, which entitles her family to financial assistance from the state.

A responding officer found Preston lying outside, and she was taken to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead, authorities have said.

Preston, who lived in Avalon Park, worked for CPD for only three years before her death, according to department officials.

She had earned a masters degree in child and family law from Loyola University Chicago, according to her LinkedIn and Facebook profiles. She graduated in 2019 with a bachelors degree in criminal justice and law enforcement administration from Illinois State University, according to the profiles.

In a social media post, one of Prestons friends remembered her as a humble, dedicated, helpful, sophisticated soul. Another remembered her as the life of everything and as sweet as pie.

During her undergraduate studies, Prestons academic interests ranged from restorative justice and trauma in incarcerated populations to diversity in law enforcement and police brutality.

A former professor of Prestons at ISU, criminal justice scientist Charles Bell, said he met the young woman as a student. She attended a panel that included formerly incarcerated individuals and was in a class Bell teaches on Race, Ethnicity and Criminal Justice.

She understands the intimate details about what is happening in the community, some of the challenges that are impacting policing and mass incarceration, he told the Tribune. She was very vocal about that and sharing it with the class and deeply passionate about making a difference.

The Police Department suffered a similar tragedy earlier this year when Officer Andres Vasquez Lasso was shot and killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic-related call in Gage Park. In that case, Steven Montano, 18, of the 2500 block of South Lawndale, was charged with first-degree murder, weapons charges and interfering with a domestic violence report. The case is pending.
Those well-steeped in our nations history long ago learned the inspiring story of how President George Washington delivered his stirring Gettysburg Address, a four-hour oration, in an effort to revive hope among Americans struggling during the Great Depression of the 1920s.

Or maybe not.

Last week, the National Assessment of Educational Progress  the nations report card  released the results of standardized tests given last year to eighth graders across the country on civics and history. Turn away if you seek to avoid depressing news.

Just 13% of students met proficiency standards in history, meaning they could explain major themes, periods, events, people, ideas and turning points in the countrys history, according to The Wall Street Journal. About 20% reached proficiency in civics.

In other words, only a small percentage of American kids poised to enter high school probably would be able to identify more than two errors in this essays lead sentence, if they could identify any of the obvious mistakes at all.

The scores were the most miserable on record for a test that has been in existence for decades. In fact, students scored worse on these two subjects than in any other areas, including reading and math.

These data are a national concern, Peggy Carr, commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics, told reporters. The health of our democracy depends on informed and engaged citizens.

Various interests pointed fingers in an effort to place blame for this dismal development. The pandemic was an obvious culprit, and no doubt didnt help. James Grossman of the American Historical Society cited the falling quality of history and civics lessons taught in American schools, which has been fueled by political acrimony, the Journal reported.

Fair enough. But acrimonious battles over curricula involving politically controversial issues such as race are meaningless to kids when they lack the basic facts upon which to build a foundation that supports critical thinking and leads to the examination of more complex  and even contentious  subject matter. The great failure of this nations public school system is that students arent learning even elementary skills when it comes to reading and mathematics or even the simplest of facts in terms of history and civics.

The current push to ensure students are exposed to a more complete and robust view of this nations history  warts and all  is wise and worthwhile. Yet it makes little sense if kids dont first develop a grasp of the fundamentals before moving on to more challenging subject matter.

Las Vegas Review-Journal
Executive Director, Head of Consumer Banking at Ecobank, Dr Edward Botchway has led the launching of the Ecobank Double Salary Promotion Reloaded to reward existing and new salaried account holders receiving their salaries through Ecobank.



Ecobank first launch of the Double Salary Promotion on January 4, 2022, for the first quarter was a huge success as it increased the number of Salary Account holders remarkably.



Speaking at the launch of the Ecobank Double Salary Promotion Reloaded, Dr Botchway encouraged Ghanaian workers to take advantage of the promotion which would run for three months to have their salaries doubled for them by opening Ecobank Salary Accounts.



we are here to present Ghanaian workers with yet another promotion, the Ecobank Salary Promotion reloaded, which will also run for 3 months, starting today. We expect that many more workers will take advantage of this offer by opening Ecobank Salary Accounts, he said.



He explained that the Ecobank Salary Account, around which the promotion is designed, is a special account that is opened solely for receiving salaries through Ecobank.



It targets workers from all income brackets but has many other special benefits, compared to what one usually gets in a salary account elsewhere.



One such benefit is the free life insurance cover of up to GHS10,000 that comes with it. There are many more reasons why workers should place a premium on this product, as would be discussed subsequently, he noted.



Dr Edward Botchway added that Ecobank had deployed many digital touchpoints to complement its branch network, bringing great convenience to customers.



He, however, said that Salary Account holders at Ecobank are not limited to specific locations and specific time limits within which to perform banking transactions as customers can transact freely anytime, anywhere all year round.



this promotion is open to all Ecobank Ghana customers who receive their salaries through their Current, Savings or the Ecobank Salary Account. To be eligible, one must simply ensure that there is, at least, one months salary payment credited to the account during the promotion period.



I pause here to urge you all to remember that the Ecobank Double Salary Promotion Reloaded is yet another opportunity for you to enjoy the numerous benefits of the Ecobank Salary Account and, more importantly, stand a chance to win multiples of your present monthly salary, he mentioned.



Dr Botchway assured that Ecobank is committed to providing customers with innovative financial solutions to meet their everyday banking needs and rewarding them for their loyalty.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has underscored the giant contributions of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in the political governance of Ghana.



The president described the revered monarch as an invaluable partner in the governance of Ghana, at a birthday dinner held for the Asantehene in London.



I cannot vouch for my predecessors with the exception possibly of my own boss, president Kufuor but I could say and I think it is something that he would agree with me, that Otumfuo Osei Tutu has been an invaluable partner in the governance of Ghana.



Certainly, for president Akufo-Addo, an invaluable partner  and I wish to declare publicly my appreciation and gratitude for all the assistance that has been given to me, by you these last six years, the president stressed to applause.



Akufo-Addo cited the specific instance of the Otumfuos contributions to securing peace especially in the Dagbon crisis, where he was a mediator, and expressed hope that the Asantehene will extend a similar hand in resolving the raging Bawku crisis.



He tasked attendees to make merry and remember the contributions of Asantehene to national lives, not the least to the stability of our country.



Remember the role he played in bringing a settlement to the crisis in Dagbon and I am confident he is going to repeat that for me in the Bawku crisis, he stressed.



Otumfuo and Akufo-Addo are in the UK with their spouses for the May 6 coronation of King Charles III. The 73rd birthday bash of the Asantehene took place after they had attended the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.



Watch Akufo-Addos remarks below:





Source: ghanaweb.com









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China creates over 2.5 million new jobs for fresh graduates

Xinhua) 11:13, May 08, 2023

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- As of Wednesday, about 2.53 million new jobs had been created for Chinese college graduates this year via an employment promotion campaign, said the Ministry of Education on Saturday.

The ministry launched the campaign last November, with 2,415 universities and colleges participating in the initiative.

During the campaign, education authorities at the provincial level were required to help bridge higher education institutions with enterprises, taking into consideration the major layouts of the former and the recruitment demands of the latter.

Meanwhile, universities and colleges were encouraged to invite employers to recruitment activities on campus and offer them necessary assistance.

So far, more than 1.45 million enterprises have provided approximately 35.1 million pieces of job information through 125,000 offline recruitment activities across the country, according to the ministry.

The ministry added that it will hold a special week-long employment promotion event in May, with greater efforts to expand channels of employment and provide guidance services for job-hunting graduates.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
KHARTOUM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Armed clashes still raged in the Sudanese capital of Khartoum on Monday as negotiations between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Supportive Forces (RSF) have so far yielded no major progress.

The situation in Sudan is stable in all states except for the capital Khartoum, SAF Commander Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan told Egypt's Al Qahera News in a phone interview on Monday.

"We can discuss a settlement after we reach a permanent ceasefire in Khartoum," Burhan was quoted as saying, warning that war could spread to the rest of Sudan if a division happens in Khartoum.

"Our forces clashed with a group of the rebel militia in Bahri (Khartoum North) and destroyed four armed vehicles, while the enemy fled," the SAF said in a statement on Monday.

Gunfires and shellings can still be heard in Khartoum early in the morning. Fighter jets of the armed forces flew above the city and the RSF fired anti-aircraft guns in response, according to a Xinhua correspondent at Khartoum.

The SAF accused the RSF fighters of robbing banks and shops, as well as storming citizens' houses and looting their properties in the residential neighborhoods where the RSF fighters are stationed.

The SAF warned citizens to keep away from the clash areas and avoid approaching any unknown metal objects until the technical crews arrive to deal with them.

Meanwhile, an anonymous Saudi Arabian diplomat told media on Monday that as the dialogue between the two warring parties in Jeddah entered its third day, no significant progress has been made, noting, "The topic of a permanent ceasefire is not on the table."

Since the conflict began, the war-torn areas in Khartoum have been cut off from electricity, water supply, and communication. People who had to hunker down in their houses are in dire shortages of basic living necessities and medical services.

Sudan has been witnessing deadly armed clashes between the SAF and the RSF in the capital city of Khartoum and other areas since April 15, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.

According to UN statistics, thousands of Sudanese citizens have been displaced or forced to seek refuge in safe areas in Sudan or neighboring countries.

According to the latest number of casualties provided by Sudan's health ministry in early May, the conflict killed at least 550, and injured another 4,926 people. 
North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has spoken for the first time about why he kicked purported court documents served on him by a supposed bailiff in February this year.



The MP was dragged to court over the action which plaintiff, Victor Kusi Boateng said amounted to disrespect for the courts and the judicial system.



The contempt case which exclusively wanted Ablakwa to be convicted to a jail term was dismissed last week with the judge awarding cost of 10,000 cedis to Ablakwa.



Ablakwa has explained why he angrily kicked the court papers as served on him at the premises of Metro TV in Accra, which footage went viral on social media.



Speaking on Good Morning Ghana programme (May 5, 2023) he was asked by co-panelist Nana Akomea why he did what he did in February this year.



Ablakwa explained: I was extremely provoked; I was asking the gentleman who are you and he wouldnt tell me. He just says I have documents for you, I say which documents? Just let me know, then he threw it at me.



So, I lost my cool honestly that is not me. It was an unfortunate incident but I felt so disrespected. I was driving myself and I thought I could just kick it out of my way and go away, he added.



He also reiterated that in court, the plaintiff failed to provide proof of service when the judge demanded it because the supposed bailiff was not known to the court, a fact his lawyers established when they went through the court registry.



The said bailiff had gone to serve defamation suit on Ablakwa from Kusi Boateng, an official of the National Cathedral Project who Ablakwa had been publishing damning allegations about since last year.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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The News Editor of TV Africa, Nii Tettey Ablorh, is reported dead.



According to a source, Nii Ablorh passed away on Sunday at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) after a short illness.



The source added that last Friday was exactly one month since he was admitted at the UGMC and was recuperating until the unimaginable struck. Nii Ablorh hosted the Ga Magazine programme Omanye Aba on TV Africa and was the owner of Omanye TV.



In early April, prior to his admission, Nii Ablorh accompanied the Ga Mantse, Nii Teiko Tsuru II and a number of his paramount chiefs for an official visit in the US; a testament of the confidence they had in him to deliver exceptionally.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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A Senior Psychologist, Professor Joseph Osafo has called on government to establish a National Rehabilitation Center to treat people with mental disorders.



He noted it is about time that mental health challenges were taken into serious consideration by the government and the Mental Health Authority.



The Head of Psychology at the University of Ghana expressed concerns about the inadequate attention given to people with mental disorders.



To him, the needs of these people, particularly those wandering on the streets, have been abandoned for far too long, hence admonishing successive governments to allocate resources to cater for them.



He recounted the dangers involved in one encountering a person with mental problem on the streets as these people, if care is not taken, could inflict bodily harm on drivers and pedestrians.



Prof. Joseph Osafo believed having rehab center across the country to offer both medical and psychological treatments is one significant step to resolving the mental health situation in the nation.



We need a National Rehabilitation Center . . . What we need is governmental commitment that every successive government will take mental health serious and set up a facility to cater for people with these challenges, he told Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FMs morning show Kokrokoo.



However, as the nation waits for a National Rehabilitation Center, Prof. Osafo appealed for the establishment of makeshift structures to serve the same purpose.



 . . the truth of the matter is that there is congestion in the two psychiatric hospitals in Accra, the Accra Psychiatric Hospital and the one at Pantang, he stated, stressing we can have a makeshift structures to begin with to accommodate these patients.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Former NPP Member of Parliament for Okaikoi North, Issah Fuseini has urged government to place premium on treatment and care for people with mental disorders.



Speaking on Peace FMs Kokrokoo show, Mr. Issah Fuseini raised concerns regarding the behaviour of people with mental disorders, particularly those on the streets, and the neglect on the part of government towards this category of people.



He noted there are lots of dangers involved in leaving mental health disorder patients or victims to swamp the streets.



He feared these people may pose a threat or harm innocent people.



To him, the government should give attention to the health needs of these people as well as provide room to rehabilitate them.



As a nation, we must prioritize it and accord this problem the needed maximum attention, he stressed.













Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The attention Of the General Legal Council has been drawn to the erroneous reportage on some media platforms of His Lordship the Chief Justice's speech given at the enrolment ceremony of 196 Lawyers called to the Bar on Friday, 5th May 2023.



In his speech, (the relevant portion, which is quoted below), the Chief Justice on behalf of the General Legal Council, informed the new Lawyers of an initiative of the General Legal Council, which was impending.



The General Legal Council is constituted as follows:

The Chief Justice who is the Chairman

A Deputy Chairman who is the most Senior Supreme Court Judge after the Chief Justice

The two most senior Supreme Court Judges

The Attorney-General

The Head of the Faculty of Law at the University of Ghana

Three persons nominated by the Minister who are all members of the Bar

Four members of the Bar who are nominated by the Ghana Bar Association.

The portion of the speech referred to above reads:



"Lawyers in the country will soon be mandated to complete a minimum of a 12-hour professional development programme in a year before the renewal of their licence, This is to help broaden their knowledge and contribute to their growth in the profession. In line with that, plans were far advanced to make the programme, which was enshrined in the Lega/ Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules, 2020 (Legislative Instrument 2423) a prerequisite for the issuance ofa practising licence to all lawyers under the Legal Profession Bill which would soon be made a law"



There was no mention of Lawyers being required to write examinations at all before a renewal of Licence and indeed no such amendment to the Law is about to be made.



The requirement for Lawyers to complete Continuing Professional Development before the renewal of a practicing licence, is a standard requirement in some jurisdictions around the world. This practice is aimed at sharpening the skills of Lawyers and keeping them abreast with recent developments in the Law for the benefit of the clients they serve.



The General Public and Lawyers are hereby informed of the misrepresented reportage and the correction thereof accordingly.



SGD



GENERAL LEGAL COUNCIL

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Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Reports from the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, suggest that looting has become such a severe problem that it's causing shortages of basic supplies.



A doctor has told the BBC that a criminal gang - armed with knives and guns - tried to break into his hospital overnight, as rival military factions continue to fight for control of the city.



The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been seen looting banks.



As well as the destruction caused by airstrikes and clashes between the rival forces, there are worrying signs of anarchy in Khartoum.



Both sides have been taking part in talks in the Saudi city of Jeddah to try to ensure civilians can get supplies and humanitarian aid can be given out.



But they have not committed to ending the war through dialogue.

Source: BBC









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A tribunal has begun hearing a petition by several opposition candidates in Nigeria to annul Bola Tinubu's victory in February's presidential election.



Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar are challenging Mr Tinubu's victory on several grounds - including the fact that the Independent National Electoral Commission (Inec) failed to upload the result on its website portal in real time.



They allege that this was in breach of the Electoral Act, and Inec's promise to ensure transparency.



Inec is defending the case, saying the final result reflected the will of the electorate and delays in uploading the results were caused by technical glitches and a spike in traffic.



Mr Obi - who contested the presidency for the first time, and had been popular among young voters in the south - was in court for the start of the case.



At least three other opposition figures have thrown their weight behind the bid to overturn the result.



A verdict is not expected before Mr Tinubu's inauguration on 29 May.



He was officially declared the winner with 37% of the vote, with Mr Abubakar polling 29%, and Mr Obi 25%.



Mr Tinubu - a member of the ruling party - will succeed President Muhammadu Buhari, who is stepping down at the end of his two terms.

Source: BBC









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A Suspected thief believed to be in his middle 30s has been beaten to death at Alico a suburb of Kasoa Ofaakor in the Awutu Senya East Municipality in the Central Region.



Information gathered by Kasapa News Yaw Boagyan indicates that the deceased attempted to rob some people at knife point on their way to work around 4:30 am Saturday, May 6, 2023, in the morning but unfortunately, he was caught and beaten to death by some unknown residents.



It was further revealed that the deceased, Kofi, is a notorious thief in the area who several complaints have been made against at Kasoa Ofaakor police but he was never arrested.



The killing of the suspect has gotten many residents talking about the incident saying that they are happy he has been killed.



The lifeless body has been picked up by the Kasoa Ofaakor police to be deposited at the police mortuary.



Police have commenced an investigation into the matter.





Source: kasapaonline









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Former PPP stalwart, Charles Owusu says the candidate to win the 2024 Presidential elections has already been decided.



According to him, nothing will change in the next elections, hence predicting that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will hand over power to a Presidential candidate of his party, the governing New Patriotic Party.



Charles Owusu made this prediction during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" programme.



"Nana Akufo-Addo has broken the record already. He will hand over to his own party...The 2024 elections have already been decided...God has already chosen the one who will lead this country," he said.



He further stressed that the "NPP will win the next 2024 elections, come what may".





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Preparations for the presidential and parliamentary primaries of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), enters the home stretch this week.



The vote is slated for May 13, 2023 with the presidential primary being the main focus for most analysts.



Former President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated calls for unity among the rank and file ahead of the process.



Everyone has his supporters, theres no point saying this person supported the winning team, so we will stay aside. All of us are NDC, lets support each other after the primaries, Mr. Mahama advised in his continued engagement with supporters at Bimbilla in the Northern Region.



Mahama is seeking to be re-elected to lead the NDC into the fourth straight election after winning in 2012 and losing in 2016 and 2020.



John Mahama will face competition in the primary from former finance minister Kwabena Duffuor and former Kumasi mayor Kojo Bonsu.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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SUVA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Fiji's tourism industry is thriving and expanding, with more than 900,000 visitors arriving in the country since the reopening of borders at the end of 2021, says Tourism Fiji, a tourism marketing arm of the Fijian government.

While speaking at the Fijian Tourism Expo, which runs from Saturday to Monday in Nadi, Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill said visitor spending has already surpassed expectations, reaching 3.5 billion Fijian dollars (around 1.6 billion U.S. dollars).

Hill said trends indicate that the average stay has gone up to 9.7 nights, with visitor satisfaction rates at 93 percent, reported the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation news website.

The CEO also said the latest reports show that occupancy rates and average daily rates of Fiji Airways, the country's national airline, have both exceeded 2019 levels and hold a strong return for the industry.

According to Viliame Gavoka, Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, the country recorded 175,284 visitors arrivals during the first quarter of this year.

Gavoka said at the expo that it's a recovery of about 102 percent compared to the same quarter pre-pandemic, adding that hotels are also reporting unprecedented bookings, so not only is Fiji recovering, but the tourism industry is thriving.

Last year, Fiji received 636,312 foreign tourists, 71 percent of 2019. Before the pandemic, the country received more than 800,000 visitors per year. 
Tension is running high within the hierarchy of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) following the decision of the former National Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo to take on the current National Chairman of the party, Johnson Asiedu Nketia over allegations of dirty campaign during the partys recent national executives elections.



According to sources within the party, Mr. Ofosu-Ampofo has expressed his dissatisfaction with the rough tactics used by the current Chairman in his campaign to unseat him.



He mentioned among them the deliberate electioneering campaign of lies, vilification and character assassination waged against his person.



One of the key accusations made against him, as recalled in a recent petition to the Council of Elders of the party and gleaned by Daily Guide, is being called a mole in the NDC for our arch opponents, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and purportedly hobnobbing with them, thereby compromising his position as National Chairman.



That, quite stunningly, in order to reinforce the lie narrative that I was hobnobbing and also involved in some kind of collusion with the NPP, Hon Asiedu Nketia, in a viral video, insinuated I had introduced a Company allegedly owned by Mr. Sammy Crabbe, a former National Vice-Chairman of NPP for consideration to create an App for the registration of, and collection of dues from NDC members.



I wish to state emphatically for the records that I took no part and had no hand in the process leading up to the selection of the eventual Company that was awarded the Contract for the NDC membership registration and dues collection project, excerpts of the petition read.



Another allegation mentioned in the petition is that he had sold the anticipated victory of the 2020 presidential elections to the NPP; thus, causing the defeat of the NDC in the last elections.



That, I single-handedly appointed the Directors of Elections and IT of the Party; and that in doing so, I neglected the advice of the former President, H.E John Dramani Mahama, who had apparently instructed a delay to the two specific appointments until the flagbearer elections were held in March 2019. According to Hon. Asiedu Nketia, this incident prevented the Party from compiling elections results in 2020 and led to our loss in the election petition which was heard at the Supreme Court of Ghana in the year 2021. This is absolutely false.



The truth of the matter is that nominations were put before the Functional Executive Committee (FEC) which discussed and provisionally approved the list before submitting same to the National Executive Committee (NEC) for final approval. Upon approval by NEC, the General Secretary issued and signed appointment letters to the persons so appointed.



So, if I may ask at what point can it be said that I single-handedly appointed those officers? the petition read.



That I took the National Womens Organiser, Hon Dr. Hannah Bissiw to an NPP bigwig (businesswoman) for money. This is also false and I challenge him to provide incontrovertible evidence.



That, in the company of the then General Secretary, Hon. Asiedu Nketia, I went to a businessman who is sympathetic to the NPP to negotiate to sell the position of the Speakership of Parliament in the run-up to the selection of the Speaker of the 8th Parliament of the Republic of Ghana in the night of January 6, 2021. This is also false, he said.



He was of the view that Mr. Asiedu Nketias adoption of tribal politics in his campaign of naked lies were meant to destroy his integrity because he is an Akyem, thereby tagging him to be NPP.



He also noted that it is false comments that by virtue of being an Akyem, he is a member of the Akyem mafia or aligned with the NPP. In fact, Prof Danso Boafo is a royal of the Akyem State and yet a true member of the NDC. So how can it be said that by virtue of being an Akyem, I am aligned with the NPP?



Touching on the appointment of Rojo Mettle-Nunoo and Kpessa Whyte as representatives of the NDC at the collation centre otherwise known as Strongroom, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo said in the petition that he was never consulted not to talk of resisting the change of the aforementioned duo from the EC office.



The former Chairman was of a strong conviction that the grand mischievous accusations sought to portray him as a mole in the party who has been leaking information to the NPP.



On the accounts of the above, Mr. Ofosu-Ampofo is requesting the partys Council of Elders to investigate the allegations, vilifications, and falsehoods peddled against him and establish the veracity or otherwise of each of them and take appropriate action.



Consequently, he has demanded that Mr. Asiedu Nketia should prove all his allegations levelled against him with full evidence as his failure to fulfil that obligation, retract the allegations and apologise unreservedly he will be compelled to take other action necessary to redeem his reputation.



The Council of Elders, according to sources, is yet to take a decision on the explosive petition.

Source: Vincent Kubi/Daily Guide









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A former National Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yaw Boateng Gyan, has cautioned opposition party delegates not to vote for a flagbearer who can only serve one term as President.



According to him, voting for ex-President John Dramani Mahama as a candidate, whose term expires in four years, is a risk for the NDC since it will not help them.



Mr. Gyan told NDC delegates at the Lower West Akyem Constituency in the Eastern Region during Dr. Kwabena Duffuors campaign tour that the party should elect a flagbearer who can reign for eight years as President to ensure continuity and sustainability of gains.



He again said the 2024 election is also about the economy, which demands someone with technical expertise.



He asserted that the NDC requires an astute economist like Dr. Duffuor, a former Finance Minister, to lead the party to success, and added that such a person can address Ghanas economic difficulties if the party gains power.



The election in 2024 is about the economy. The economic harm wrought by Akufo-Addo and his brother Ofori-Atta would take years to repair.



So, if we choose someone whose term will expire in four years and Ghanaians are dissatisfied with his performance, they will not allow the NDC to bring any new candidate to begin his term; they will say we wasted their time, Mr. Gyan disclosed.



For him, electing ex-President Mahama to lead the NDC in the 2024 general election would mean gambling with the chances of the party, asserting, In 2016 we lost close to 1 million votes. We gave him the opportunity to go again and we lost by 500,000 votes.



In the 2024 election, we dont have to gamble with it, he emphasised, adding, Many Ghanaians are telling us to change our candidate so that they can vote for the NDC. As a result, we must understand that the voice of the people is the voice of God.



The EIU says that if the NDC is to win the 2024 election, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor must lead the party. We need a candidate who will serve for eight years, not four, he stated.







Source: Ernest Kofi Adu/Daily Guide









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Former Deputy General Secretary of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho has told NEAT FMs morning show, 'Ghana Montie' that he doesnt trust the National Chairman of his party.



According to him, Johnson Asiedu Nketia is making all efforts to ensure John Dramani Mahama is elected as the partys flagbearer for the 2024 election  a choice he claimed many party members are not in support of.



Koku Anyidoho also claimed the NDC national executives, led by Asiedu Nektia have produced a fraudulent voters' register to be used in their upcoming primaries.



Quote me anywhere, there is a fraudulent register to make sure Mahama wins but we shall stop it, he said.



Koku Anyidoho, however, described his party Chairman as a dangerous individual who can manipulate elections to his favour.



I know Asiedu Nketia very well and the type of dangerous politics he does, he told host McJerry Osei-Agyeman.







Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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The Member of Parliament for Anyaa Sowutuom, Dickson Adomako Kissi, has criticised the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, for his pronouncement on the acceptance of LGBTQI+ activities in Ghana.



According to the MP, Alban Bagbin can have his views on LGBTQI+ but his public utterance on it should be guided because of the position he holds.



Speaking on GTV Wednesday, May 3, 2023, Adomako Kissi added that the speakers utterance, if care is not taken, will jeopardise the governments revenue mobilising efforts.



He explained the issue of LGBTQI is becoming more of a "turf war" which might seriously affect Ghanas economy if care is not taken.



I worry because this LGBT thing is almost going to be more of a proxy-type turf war In the sense that it is not about LGBTQ or whatever it is but the fight for independence, liberty and rightly so in another context the liberty of those who are downtrodden.



I worry because of the economic ties associated with either being for it (LGBT) or not and that is where I think that from a political-economic standpoint, we need to be very careful how to approach this, he said.



 it is very important that the speaker of parliament be mindful that when he goes out of the country and he talks on behalf of Ghana, it is no longer an individual talking but that position he holds. In that sense, I would plead with him to carry out the same conversation with different wording.



He has to be mindful of the economic nature or association with this new demand even if the speaker personally has a stance when he is outside the shore of Ghana, his linguae should be guided by a team of people who give him the appropriate wording to use. His oration can shut down a lot of possible funding, he reiterated.



Background:



Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, during his recent trip to the UK, said that Africa is not deterred by the veiled threats of withdrawal of investments and international aid and other stringent economic measures that have attended the continents effort at protecting its culture, values, and societal norms and to safeguard the future of its youth.



Speaking at a meeting with the members of the British House of Lords and the House of Commons at Westminster in London, Bagbin said: Threats are not the way to go. If your neighbour or partner has a problem, you help him to solve it. Boycotts and threats do not solve problems: engagement and understanding do.



The speaker also told the members of the House of Lords and the House of Commons that there is nothing wrong with the anti-LGBTQI+ bill the Parliament of Ghana is considering.



He added that Ghana needs laws on LGBTQI+ activities and parliament will ensure that these laws are enacted.



There is nothing untoward; nothing wrong with the efforts by Ghanas Parliament to legislate on the promotion of human sexual rights and family values in Ghana, using our constitution as a compass, he said.















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A political science lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in the Central Region, Mr Jonathan Asante Otchere, has said the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) will have a daunting task defending the records of Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia if he emerges as the flagbearer of the party for 2024 general elections.



Relatively, he said the party will have a much easier task defending the records of former trades minister Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen should he emerge as the flag bearer because Dr Bawumia, over the years, has spoken with exaggerations and nothing more.



He said the confidence that people reposed in the vice president is not what he had exhibited in office.



Mr Okyere explained that the vice president has tainted his own record stemming from the economic mismanagement that has gone on under his watch as the head of the Economic Management Team (EMT).



"Dr Bawumia should have ensured that the economy did not deteriorate to use that as his launch pad for the presidency," he suggested.



''Some of us believed that the president is an outright politician but the vice president is an economist but he ended up spewing so many lies and spoke with exaggerations," he noted.



"What has gone on with the economy is not something the vice president, especially after being described as the economic whiz kid, can be proud of," he added.



"NPP has no trustworthiness and has lost the moral authority to continue to govern this country and that represents Dr Bawumia as well," he asserted.



"The NPP doesnt know what message they are going to give to Ghanaians when it comes to the economy," he said.



Mr Okyere threw in this assertion while reacting to the vice presidents meeting with the majority caucus at which he announced his decision to run for president.



The university lecturer spoke on Accra 100.5 FMs evening news on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.



According to him, Mr Kyerematen can exonerate himself but the vice president cannot, as far as the management of the economy is concerned.



He said Dr Bawumia has failed in his area of advertised expertise and has jumped ship to digitalisation.



"What is the role of digitalisation in the fight against corruption?" Mr Okyere quizzed, adding: "The vice president continues to champion digitalisation and the country continues to lose GHS27 million to corruption."



"What animal is that digitalisation?" he asked again, saying that the interface is there and has led to huge sums of money being lost to corruption as contained in the Auditor's Report.

Source: class fm









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The Executive Director of Global InfoAnalytics, Mussa Dankwa, says recent polls suggest that Ghanaian voters have lost trust in the ability of the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to revive the crippling economy and create jobs to tackle the countrys unemployment crisis.



He disclosed on the Big Issue on Saturday, May 6, that, per their latest survey, the Vice President is only slightly ahead of his main competitor Alan Kyerematen when it comes to issues of education but lags behind on issues pertaining to the economy and job creation.



At the moment in the polls, on the economy and jobs, he [Bawumia] is lagging behind. What we have seen with the data doesnt show that people trust him on the economy or job issues and these are the top three election issues facing Ghanaians, that is Jobs, Economy and Education, Mr Dankwa told host Selorm Adonoo.



Mr Dankwa added that We believed Bawumia was miles ahead a year ago, even with the delegates but with time, events in the country on the economy have made the gains somehow erodedHe is slightly ahead with what we have seen, but it is not huge enough to deliver a knockout blow.



The Second Deputy National Organizer of the opposition National Democratic Congress, Elikem Eric Kotoko, who was a guest on the show said the Vice President doesnt deserve to be elected as the flagbearer of the NPP due to his poor performance in office.



Bawumia has become a contradiction to himself, Bawumia has become a threat to himself, there is no way for someone whose words cannot be trusted be allowed to contest the presidency.



There are people who said so many things about Dr. Bawumia as an economic whizz-kid, but here we are today, we are in a mess. The messiah has led us into a mess.



Dr. Bawumia on Thursday met some NPP MPs at a private meeting in Accra to confirm his intention to contest the flagbearership slot of the party.



The NPP has set November 4, 2023, for its presidential primaries to select a flagbearer for the general elections in 2024.



However, if more than five candidates file to run in the primaries, the party will call a Special Congress on August 26.



The nomination period for the presidential primaries will begin on May 26 and end on June 24, 2023.



So far, the former Food and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, and Francis Addai Nimo have declared their intention to contest in the partys flagbearership race.



The others include former MP for Essikado-Ketan, Joe Ghartey, former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyapong, Dr. Kofi Konadu Apraku, and former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko.

Source: citi news









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Graphical abstract. Credit: Prof.Tomohiro Hayashi

A recent study by Tokyo Tech researchers has found that the biofilm-forming bacteria E. coli adheres firmly to hydrophobic and hydrophilic protein-adsorbing self-assembling monolayers (SAMs) and weakly to hydrophilic protein-resisting SAMs. These findings on how surface chemistry can influence the adhesion of bacterial cells and, in turn, biofilm formation could inform the development of bacteria-resistant surfaces and antibiofouling coatings for biomedical and industrial devices.

Bacterial biofilms are like a double-edged sword. On one hand, they have proven valuable for electricity generation and degradation of toxic materials in water and soil but on the other hand, they are a nuisance when formed inside drinking water pipes, on contact lenses and on biomedical devices. To form biofilms, the bacterial cells first attach to the surface of materials via weak and reversible bonds. Once these bonds mature, the cells release polymeric substances that result in stable and irreversible biofilms.

Decoding the mechanism underlying irreversible biofilm formation and its relation to surface chemistry is key to unlocking biofilm prevention technologies. Over the years, scientists have proposed various techniques to narrow down the types of surfaces bacterial cells tend to adhere to. Unfortunately, the influence of surface chemistry and surface topography on biofilm formation have remained ambiguous.

Against this backdrop, a team of researchers led by Associate Professor Tomohiro Hayashi from Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech), Japan, set out to address this knowledge gap. In a recent breakthrough published in ACS Applied Bio Materials, the team investigated the adhesion mechanism of the E. coli bacteria on self-assembling monolayers (SAM) comprising different terminal groups, i.e., different surface chemistries, using optical microscopy and a technique called "quartz crystal microbalance with energy dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring."

Dr. Hayashi explains, "We chose QCM-D because it is an ultrasensitive device that can monitor adsorbed masses as small as nanograms using acoustic waves. Similarly, SAMs with tunable terminal groups functionalized on atomically flat QCM sensors were chosen since they can help untangle the influence of surface chemistry from that of substrate topography on bacterial attachment."

Studies have shown that bacterial attachment to a surface cannot be fully explained by the conventional mass loading theory. This is because the theory does not explain the positive and negative shifts in the resonant frequency (f) caused by adsorption of additional mass onto the surface, which significantly impacts biofilm formation. Taking this complex behavior into account through a coupled-resonator model, the team examined the changes in f and the energy dissipation (D) of the QCM sensor oscillation and assessed their impact on bacterial attachment and viscoelasticity of the SAM surfaces with different functionalities.

Figure 1. Plot of energy dissipation(D) vs shift in resonant frequency (f) for hydrophobic and hydrophilic protein-adsorbing SAMs and hydrophilic protein-resisting SAM at n =3 (3rd overtone, red) and n = 13 (13th overtone, blue) to understand time progression of bacterial adhesion. Credit: Prof.Tomohiro Hayashi

The microscopy images along with QCM-D data revealed that E. coli adhered firmly to both hydrophobic (methyl-terminated) and hydrophilic protein-adsorbing (amine- and carboxy-terminated) SAMs (Figure 1a and b), forming dense bacterial films. In contrast, it attached weakly to hydrophilic protein-resisting SAMs (Figure 1c), such as oligo (ethylene glycol) and sulfobetaine, and formed sparse and dissipative biofilms.

Figure 2. By estimating the acoustic wave penetration depths at each overtone, the distances of E. coli cells from each SAM surface could be determined, providing a clue on what makes bacterial cells adhere strongly to some surfaces and only weakly to others. Credit: Prof. Tomohiro Hayashi

The team also observed a positive f shift for hydrophilic protein-resisting SAMs, due possibly to the fact that the bacterial appendages of E. coli played role in not only initiating contact with the surface and bonding but also in creating elastic spring-like links with the surface. Further, by estimating the distances of the bacterial cell bodies from different SAM surfaces based on the different acoustic wave penetration depths at each overtone (Figure 2), they provided a possible explanation of why bacterial cells adhere strongly to some surfaces and weakly to others.

These valuable insights could help identify surfaces with higher probability of biofilm contamination as well as pave the way for contamination-resistant surfaces. "Our study can act as practical guide for determining which surfaces are prone to bacterial fouling as well as for designing prevention strategies such as bacteria-resistant surfaces and antibiofouling coatings," concludes Dr. Hayashi.

More information: Glenn Villena Latag et al, Investigation of Three-Dimensional Bacterial Adhesion Manner on Model Organic Surfaces Using Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Energy Dissipation Monitoring, ACS Applied Bio Materials (2023). DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c01012
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Waste water investigators film any violation, before planting a warning flag on the lawn for first-time offenders, or logging a fine for repeat transgressors.

Known around the world as an oasis of overindulgence, the desert city of Las Vegas has emerged as a surprising model of austerity and prudence when it comes to water.

Some 2.3 million people live in the arid Las Vegas Valley, and 40 million tourists are drawn each year to its giant casinos and hotels.

Yet because Nevada is allowed to use less than two percent of the drought-hit Colorado River's total water, it has taken drastic action, from banning lawns to capping the size of swimming pools.

Even as the region's population has exploded by more than half in the past two decades, use of the mighty but dwindling riverby far Las Vegas's main water sourcehas declined by almost a third.

"Las Vegas has done a very good job selling the facade of excess and decadence," said Bronson Mack, Southern Nevada Water Authority spokesman.

"But the reality is that our community is extremely water-efficient."

This is due to a package of strict laws, financial incentives and education, created during severe drought in the early 2000s, when Nevada exceeded its river allocation.

Now, at a time when federal officials are mulling mandatory cuts across the parched US West, Las Vegas "has become a water conservation rock star" and "a model for cities" across the region, said researcher Brian Richter.

'Water cops'

On the Las Vegas Strip, famous casino attractions like the Bellagio's fountains and the Venetian's canals use non-potable groundwater from private wells.

Cameron Donnarumma patrols Las Vegas neighborhoods to check if residents are wasting water.

Out in the sprawling suburbs, early morning "water patrol" cars with flashing lights crawl the streets, hunting for broken sprinklers and leaky hoses.

Investigators film any violation, before planting a warning flag on the lawn for first-time offenders, or logging a fine for repeat transgressors.

Some homeowners become "a bit frustated" to find "water cops" on their lawn before dawn, said investigator Cameron Donnarumma, but most are cooperative.

Indeed, his work relies on residents reporting their more water-profligate neighbors via an app, which daily yields 20-50 home visits by patrols.

"People recognize when you land in Las Vegas in the Mojave Desert it is a very dry place," said Mack. "It is a different environment from where you came from."

By 2027, any watering of "non-functional" grassthere purely for aesthetic rather than recreational reasonswill be banned, except at single-family residences.

Las Vegas offers homeowners $3 for every square foot of grass they remove and replace with water-efficient alternatives, like drip-irrigated plants.

It is a program that has been copied in other major US cities, such as Los Angeles and Phoenix, though smaller towns find it harder to emulate, said Richter.

"Smaller budgets and limited ability to offer financial incentives in smaller cities can severely constrain" water conservation programs, he wrote in a recent study.

Las Vegas offers homeowners $3 for every square foot of grass they remove and replace with water-efficient alternatives, like drip-irrigated plants.

'Political'

The programs are not always popular.

Tedi Vilardo, a Las Vegas stay-at-home mom, told AFP she has complied with new rules limiting her to watering her lawn for 12 minutes, but is "seeing a ton of dead spots."

"I'm gonna go against the rules," she said, noting that "we got lots of rain" this winter.

She dislikes fake grass, because she has two children and "it burns their feet."

A recent rule limiting new swimming pools to 600 square feet (56 square meters) has infuriated contractors like Kevin Kraft, who designs giant pools for wealthy homeowners.

The industry was not consulted until the legislation was a "done deal," and Kraft says a cap based on percentage of a home's total lot size would save more water.

Nevada officials were "under the gun" from the federal government and "had to show savings," he said.

"A lot of it is political," he added.

Even so, Kraft described Southern Nevada's water conservation as "world class."

"Now, the other states such as California? It's not even close," he said.

Las Vegas returns water to Lake Mead, the nation's largest reservoir, via the Las Vegas Wash.

'Step up'

The rules limiting Nevada's access to the Colorado River, which supplies water to 40 million people including California's cities and giant farms, were drawn up in 1922.

Back then, Las Vegas "barely even existed," said Mack, and was "just a whistlestop for the train between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City."

Now, with water levels plummeting at nearby Lake Meadthe nation's largest reservoirfederal officials are planning steep cuts across the West.

These will either be a uniform percentage reduction for all states, or by "senior rights"basically, who got there first, which would put Nevada near the back of the line.

Mack said Las Vegas's record of water reductions "could actually be a challenge for us in the future" if mandated cuts are based on current usage levels.

Las Vegas "should get credit for the amount of water that we have already saved in this community over the past 20 years," he said.

"Other communities are just now starting to step up to the conservation plate."

 2023 AFP
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Fig. 1: Photo of the gas cell for high harmonic generation of extremely short-wavelength ultraviolet attosecond pulses. Credit: Max Hartmann, MPI fur Kernphysik

The motion of an electron in a strong infrared laser field is tracked in real time by means of a novel method developed by MPIK physicists and applied to confirm quantum-dynamics theory by cooperating researchers at MPI-PKS. The experimental approach links the absorption spectrum of the ionizing extreme ultraviolet pulse to the free-electron motion driven by the subsequent near-infrared pulse. Their paper is published in the journal Physical Review Letters.

For this experimental scheme, the classical description of the electron motion is justified even though it is a quantum object. In the future, the new method demonstrated here for helium can be applied to more complex systems such as larger atoms or molecules for a broad range of intensities.

High-harmonic generation, namely the conversion of optical or near-infrared (NIR) light into the extreme-ultraviolet (XUV) regime, is fundamental to strong-field physics, since it is an extremely nonlinear process. In the famous three-step model the driving light field (1) ionizes the electron by tunnel ionization, (2) accelerates it away and back to the ionic core, where the electron (3) re-collides and emits XUV light if it recombines.

In a new experimental approach at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics (MPIK) in Heidelberg, physicists from the division of Thomas Pfeifer replaced the first step with an XUV single photon ionization, which has a twofold advantage. First, one can choose the time of the ionization relative to the NIR phase. Tunnel ionization would only happen in the field maximum. The extremely short XUV pulse is only hundreds of attoseconds long providing a controllable and well-defined start of the clock. Second, the NIR laser can be tuned to low intensities where tunnel ionization is practically not possible any more. This allows the study of strong-field-driven electron re-collision in a low-intensity limiting case.

The technique used here is attosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (Fig. 1) together with the reconstruction of the time-dependent dipole moment, which was developed before in the group around Christian Ott for bound electrons. Here, this technique is extended to free electrons, and it connects the time-dependent dipole moment with the classical motion (trajectories) of the ionized electrons.

"Our new method, applied to helium as a model system, links the absorption spectrum of the ionizing light to the electron trajectories," explains Ph.D. student Tobias Heldt. "This allows us to study ultrafast dynamics with a single spectroscopic measurement without the need of scanning a time delay to compose the dynamics frame by frame."

Fig. 2: Illustration of the classical trajectory (green) with multiple recollisions and changes of the quantum wave packets (red/blue background) for a NIR (red) laser-driven electron emerging from XUV (violet) ionization of helium. Credit: MPI fur Kernphysik

The measurements show that for some experimental parameters the probability of driving the electron back to the ion can be higher if the light wave is not linearly but circularly polarized. This is a counterintuitive finding that has however been predicted by theorists. Classical simulations performed by Jonathan Dubois and Gabriel M. Lando at the MPI-PKS in Dresden justify this interpretation, i.e. re-colliding periodic orbits. Fig. 2 illustrates a classical trajectory (green) versus the changes in the quantum probability distribution of the electron wave packets (background) emerging from the atom after ionization by the XUV pulse (violet) and driven by the NIR field (red).

Every time the electron (re-)collides with the helium atom (green line intersects the white center line) it leads to a characteristic modification and increase of the time-dependent atomic dipole (result of the quick red-blue oscillation near the center line), which can be picked up by an attosecond absorption-spectroscopy experiment.

Group leader Christian Ott is optimistic about the future potential of this new approach. "In general, our technique allows to explore laser-driven electron motion in a new lower-intensity regime and it could further be applied on various systems, e.g., for studying the laser-driven electron dynamics within larger atoms or molecules."

More information: Tobias Heldt et al, Attosecond Real-Time Observation of Recolliding Electron Trajectories in Helium at Low Laser Intensities, Physical Review Letters (2023). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.130.183201 V. Stoo et al, Real-Time Reconstruction of the Strong-Field-Driven Dipole Response, Physical Review Letters (2018). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.121.173005 Journal information: Physical Review Letters

Provided by Max-Planck-Institut fur Kernphysik
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Dupont's Lark (Chersophilus duponti). Credit: Adrian Barrero (UAM)

A study published in the journal Bird Conservation International warns of a decline of more than 66% in the population of the Dupont's lark (Chersophilus duponti) after the storm Filomena. This meteorological phenomenon was the biggest snowstorm to hit Spain in the last 50 years and was preceded by a week of extreme cold that left temperatures of between -5C and -15C in the affected areas and records below -33C in some localities. The Dupont's lark has recently been listed as an endangered species in Spain.

As Cristian Perez-Granados, lead author of the article and distinguished researcher Beatriz Galindo of the University of Alicante (UA) Department of Ecology, points out, the aim of this study has been to expand scientific knowledge on the impact of extreme weather events, such as the one experienced last January 2021 in Spain with Storm Filomena, on the population dynamics of endangered fauna, since such events can represent a general threat to diversity.

In this sense, scientists must be aware that the frequency and intensity of these extreme weather events may increase in many regions in the coming decades due to climate change. In this work, they used Dupont's larks as a study model because it is a species with annual monitoring in several localities and because it is a resident, threatened species with a highly specialized habitat selection.

The researchers have analyzed the changes in the abundance of the Dupont's lark before and after Storm Filomena in 14 populations in the provinces of Soria, Lleida, Murcia, Burgos, Segovia and Valencia. According to the results obtained, during the control period, between 2017 and 2020, the species suffered an overall annual decline of 19.4% for the 14 populations sampled. However, the average decline after Filomena was 66.5% for seven populations monitored both in the year before and after Filomena, i.e. in the period 2020 and 2021.

In the course of the storm, snow covered the ground for more than ten days in central and eastern Spain, which together with the subsequent extreme cold snap could have reduced the species' ability to find food resources and to adequately thermoregulate, forcing it to make long-distance movements or occupy low-quality areas, as explained by researcher Gerard Bota, head of the Conservation Biology Group at the Catalan Centre for Forest Science and Technology and also author of the article.

He added that these movements can increase the risk of mortality of dispersing individuals and, therefore, drastically affect the population dynamics and conservation of the species.

Proceeding with due caution, the results of this work could be representative of the impact that extreme weather events can have on threatened birds due to the limited number of studies that have assessed the impact of such phenomena on wildlife.

These results may also be useful for future studies, with this or similar species, aimed at understanding the impact of stochastic events on the population dynamics of species such as, for example, population viability analyses or climate change projections, by improving current knowledge on the role that catastrophic events can have on the dynamics of a population in the short term, as concluded by Juan Traba, from the Autonomous University of Madrid, author of the paper and drafter of the national conservation strategy for the species.

Protecting the species from future extreme climatic events is not easy but, according to UA researcher Cristian Perez-Granados, there are a number of steps that could favor the persistence of the populations and increase the probability of future recolonizations, such as increasing connectivity between existing populations, protecting patches of habitat with potential vegetation that the species can occupy as a refuge for the duration of such events and trying to increase both the size of the occupied patches, the quality of the habitat and the size of the population.

More information: Cristian Perez-Granados et al, Short-term impact of an extreme weather event on the threatened Dupont's LarkChersophilus duponti, Bird Conservation International (2023). DOI: 10.1017/S0959270923000035
MANILA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The unemployment rate in March dropped to 4.7 percent from 4.8 percent in February, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Monday.

"This translates to 2.42 million unemployed Filipinos out of 51 million who were in the labor force in March," PSA head Dennis Mapa told a press conference.

The Asian Development Bank earlier said the Philippine workforce was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the country recording a steep decline in employment rates in 2020.

The Manila-based bank said the country's labor market recovery remains uneven, though the unemployment rate declined to 4.2 percent in November 2022 from 6.5 percent a year earlier. 
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Sunrise at the ice horizon in the western Arctic Ocean. Credit: Peigen Lin/Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

A new study provides the first observational evidence of the stabilization of the anti-cyclonic Beaufort Gyre, which is the dominant circulation of the Canada Basin and the largest freshwater reservoir in the Arctic Ocean.

The study uses a newly extended record of "dynamic ocean topography" satellite data from 2011-2019 provided by two of the co-authors, along with an extensive hydrographic dataset from 2003-2019, to quantify the changing sea surface height of the gyre in recent years.

Previous observations and modeling that relied on earlier dynamic ocean topography data up to 2014 have documented that the gyre has strengthened and increased its freshwater content by 40% compared with 1970s climatology. Stabilization of the gyre could be a precursor of a huge freshwater release, which could have significant ramifications including impacting the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), a key component of global climate.

The Beaufort Gyre "has transitioned to a quasi-stable state in which the increase in sea surface height of the gyre has slowed and the freshwater content has plateaued. In addition, the cold halocline layer, which isolates the warm/salty Atlantic water at depth, has thinned significantly due to less input of cold and salty water stemming from the Pacific Ocean and the Chukchi Sea shelf, together with greater entrainment of lighter water from the eastern Beaufort Sea. This recent transition of the Beaufort Gyre is associated with a southeastward shift in its location as a result of variation in the regional wind forcing."

This is according to the journal article "Recent state transition of the Arctic Ocean's Beaufort Gyre," published in Nature Geoscience.

"Our results imply that continued thinning of the cold halocline layer could modulate the present stable state, allowing for a freshwater release," the article states. "This in turn could freshen the subpolar North Atlantic, impacting the AMOC."

Because there could be many potential local and remote impacts of the changing gyre on the hydrographic structure, physical processes, and ecosystem of the Arctic, "it is of high interest to better understand the factors associated with such changesincluding the underlying causes," the article notes.

"People should be aware that changes in the circulation of the Arctic Ocean could threaten the climate. It's not only the melting ice and animals losing their habitat that should be a concern," said Peigen Lin, lead author of the paper. Lin, who is an associate professor at the Shanghai Jiao Tong University's School of Oceanography in China, conducted his research as a postdoctoral investigator at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) in Massachusetts.

Collecting measurements in the ice, the western Arctic Ocean. Credit: Peigen Lin/Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

With the gyre being the Arctic Ocean's largest freshwater reservoir, "if that freshwater gets released and ends up spreading into the North Atlantic, it could impact the overturning circulation, and, in an extreme case, disrupt it," said co-author Robert Pickart, a senior scientist in WHOI's Department of Physical Oceanography.

The study, which includes an examination of long-term trends of the Beaufort Gyre and the causes of the thinning of the cold halocline layer, quantifies the evolution of the gyre in terms of its sea surface height as well as its freshwater content. "Both of these indicate that the Beaufort Gyre has stabilized in the second decade of this century," Lin said.

The study also addresses the causes of the halocline thinning considerably as the gyre has evolved. The study notes that the recent decrease in the amount of Pacific origin winter water exiting the Chukchi Sea explains some of the thinning, and that the enhanced influence from the eastern Beaufort Seadue to the gyre's southeastward shift likely also contributes to the thinning.

The recent documented state of the gyre "does not represent a return to the initial condition of 2003 when the gyre was weak and located partially in the southeastern basin. Instead, under the strengthened wind stress curl, the gyre has continuously intensified even though it has contracted, and it has maintained its excess freshwater storage," the article notes.

Collecting measurements at the ice edge, the western Arctic Ocean. Credit: Peigen Lin/Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Lin said a goal regarding the gyre is to understand the mechanisms behind its changes, which ultimately could allow scientists to predict what the gyre might do in the future.

"The community has been confounded by the fact that this gyre has kept growing and growing, and everyone is expecting it to release," Pickart said. "Wouldn't it be something if the gyre system and its freshwater accumulation and release could be become somewhat predictable? Then, perhaps, we could also shed light on what a warming climate is going to do to this system."

More information: Peigen Lin, Recent state transition of the Arctic Ocean's Beaufort Gyre, Nature Geoscience (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-023-01184-5. www.nature.com/articles/s41561-023-01184-5 Journal information: Nature Geoscience
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Summary of expert elicitation of the coal power capacity expected to come online. Expected realizations are reported as a share of the coal pipeline in July 2021. Single experts' elicited probabilities have been aggregated by country using an unweighted linear average. The boxplots report the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th centiles. The bottom squares indicate the absolute size of the pipeline in July 2021. Baseline and counterfactual scenarios are plotted in red and blue respectively. The percentage difference between the two scenarios is reported below the boxplots. The pipeline as of July 2021 has been taken from Global Energy Monitor (2021). Credit: Environmental Research Letters (2023). DOI: 10.1088/1748-9326/accdf0

For the climate, it is a shocking number: By the middle of last year, the capacity of new coal-fired power plants under construction or planned totaled 476 gigawatts worldwide. If all were built and ran until the end of their economic lifetime, this would make the international goal of limiting global heating to below 2 and preferably 1.5 degrees unattainable. However, a study now examines the official announcements, which are compiled by the U.S. information service Global Energy Monitor, in terms of their implementationand indicates that about 50% will be canceled.

The study was led by the Berlin-based climate research institute MCC (Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change), and published in the journal Environmental Research Letters. "For the negotiations on the global coal phase-out, it is important to have a realistic appreciation of the increase in power plants that still lies ahead," explains Jan Steckel, head of the MCC working group Climate and Development and co-author of the study.

"Planning, and even construction of new plants may be put on hold if, for example, changes occur in finance, national energy strategies, or costs of renewable energies. We shed light on the baseline and thus the level of ambition of past and future coal agreements, the so-called JETPs."

Since 2021, Just Energy Transition Partnerships, representing countries in the Global South and wealthy industrialized countries, have been negotiating on aid programs for phasing out this particularly climate-damaging form of power generation. For South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam, initial deals worth billions have already been struck.

The analysis now presented draws on a scientific survey of international experts. This is an established research method that is frequently used, especially in the energy sector, for topics where hard statistics are not yet available. In a systematic search process, the research team identified 29 particularly knowledgeable experts from 10 countries that account for 90% of the new coal-fired power plants under construction or officially planned: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Pakistan, Turkey, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe. The experts were contacted in autumn 2021, that is, before the conclusion of the first JETP agreements, to provide expertise for their own country and, to an extent, for other countries.

The responses show that the reduction in future coal investments negotiated with Vietnam and Indonesia corresponds more or less to what had been expected among experts anyway. The likely implementation of the announced coal-fired power plants varies greatly across countries: according to the forecast, the most cancelations are in Bangladesh and Mongolia, and the least in China.

The research team also asked about the reasons for plan changes: in addition to technical and commercial aspects, the political economy of coal, i.e., consideration of regional jobs, tax payments or influence of the coal industry, also play an important role (MCC presented an extensive research work on this last year).

Overall, the experts assume that in the coming years and decades, around 215 gigawatts of new coal-fired power plant capacity will be installed in the 10 countries examined. The study also looks at what this would mean for the climate.

"In three quarters of the scientific climate policy scenarios with only 1.5 degrees of global heating, coal use worldwide is down to zero by 2050," says Lorenzo Montrone, lead author of the study and until recently a Ph.D. student at MCC. "Our study shows how important it is to have international support to phase out coal and develop alternatives. One way to deal with the newly built plants would be to limit their lifetime to 15 years. If that succeeded, the 1.5-degree limit would still be well within reach."

More information: Lorenzo Montrone et al, Investment in new coal-fired power plants after the COVID-19 pandemic: experts expect 170270 GW of new coal, Environmental Research Letters (2023). DOI: 10.1088/1748-9326/accdf0 Journal information: Environmental Research Letters

Provided by Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change (MCC) gGmbH
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Crustaceans harden their shells with calcium, while insects harden them with oxygen. These match what is abundant in their respective habitats. Credit: Tokyo Metropolitan University

Scientists from Tokyo Metropolitan University have proposed a hypothesis for why insects are so rare in marine environments. They previously showed that insects evolved a unique chemical mechanism to harden their shells that uses molecular oxygen and an enzyme called multicopper oxidase-2 (MCO2). Now, they argue that this gives them a disadvantage in the sea, while it confers advantages that help them on land, placing MCO2 at the heart of insect eco-evolution.

Insects are some of the most successful organisms on the planet. They are said to make up the most biomass of all terrestrial animals and have a significant impact on the global ecosystem. However, their abundance is matched by their startling rarity in the sea. Very few insects call the sea home, even though their biological ancestors came from there. It is a pervading mystery of science, one which scientists have been trying to answer for many years.

Now, researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University led by Assistant Professor Tsunaki Asano have proposed a solution based on evolutionary genetics. The latest in molecular phylogenetics has taught us that both crustaceans and insects are part of the same family, Pancrustacea, and that insects were a branch that left the sea and adapted to the land. They share an important feature, an exoskeleton consisting of a wax layer and hard cuticle.

In previous work, the same team showed that when insects adapted to terrestrial environments, they evolved a unique gene that creates an enzyme called multicopper oxidase-2 (MCO2) that helps them harden their cuticles using oxygen. MCO2 mediates a reaction where molecular oxygen oxidizes compounds called catecholamines in the cuticle, turning them into agents that bind and harden the surface. This is in contrast to crustaceans who harden their cuticles using calcium from sea water instead. The team's claim is that this makes the land far more suitable for insects due to the abundance of oxygen. The sea is now a harsh environment due to both the lack of oxygen and the abundance of better adapted organisms.

But it is not just that the sea is not as hospitable for insects anymore. The hardening and drying of the cuticle via the MCO2 pathway lead to a biomaterial which is not only protective, but also lightweight. They postulate that this may be why insects gained the ability to climb plants, glide, and eventually fly. This allowed them to migrate and occupy previously empty niches in the ecosystem, a strong driving force that led to their sheer numbers. Again, this is in contrast to crustaceans, whose shells are significantly denser, with a strong correlation between density and the degree of calcification.

Of course, insects are hardly the only arthropods to adapt to the land, so it's clear that MCO2 is not strictly necessary for success in "terrestrial niches." However, the nature of insect cuticles speaks volumes about their success in the terrestrial environment. In fact, the team believe that MCO2 might be a defining feature of insects"no MCO2, no insects." Their work promises an entirely new highlight on the role that cuticle hardening might play in insect evolution and terrestrialization.

The research is published in the journal Physiological Entomology.

More information: Tsunaki Asano et al, Ecoevolutionary implications for a possible contribution of cuticle hardening system in insect evolution and terrestrialisation, Physiological Entomology (2023). DOI: 10.1111/phen.12406
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Migratory bird movement is in full swing, and experts are urging Chicagoans to turn off their lights at night to help protect the birds over the next few days from fatal window collisions.

Thousands of birds carpeted the sky last night, according to Annette Prince, director and president of Chicago Bird Collision Monitors, a nonprofit dedicated to the respite and protection of migratory birds through daily rescue efforts, when on Thursday Chicago experienced a drastic shift in wind patterns moving up from the south, prompting waves of birds to pass through downtown looking for green space to settle.

Chicago is located on the Mississippi flyway, and birds pass through the city on their journey north toward Canada in search of a good place to nest and breed for the summer.

On her way to work this morning, Prince found a little bird in the street, stunned.

"He couldn't even move, he just sat there blinking and hurt," she said. "It would have been just a matter of seconds before a car came and ran him over."

Birds fly at night to protect themselves from predators. They navigate using the moon and stars, but artificial light from city buildings can skew their flight and make them crash into glass.

This morning, the CBCM hotline was swamped with calls from people around the city. Prince said after a night like Thursday, it's not uncommon for people to look out onto rooftops from their downtown offices and find them littered with dead and dying birds.

During key migration monthsspring and fallCBCM leads volunteer groups ranging between eight and 20 people to walk around skyscrapers and scoop up fallen flyers. They take the injured ones to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn for rehabilitation and care, and take thousands of dead birds each year to the Field Museum, where they are added to the collection for documentation and research.

Using weather surveillance radar techniques, real-time bird migration numbers can be found online at BirdCast. Researchers from the Field Museum are now also going out across Illinois to conduct a spring species count from the ground.

CBCM volunteer groups collect up to 7,000 birds each year, about a quarter of which are injured, said Prince.

"And that's just the tip of the iceberg. That's just what we've found, and what people report to us," she said.

A study published in June found that bird collision mortality could be reduced by about 60% if artificial light was cut in half. This would have global implications, as birds are a critical part of controlling insects, distributing seeds, and pollinating plants.

"These birds are doing a really hazardous thing, and we make it even more hazardous by putting buildings along the lakefront," said John Bates, curator of the division of birds at the Field Museum.

Chicago has been ranked as the most dangerous city for migratory birds in North America by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

In July 2021, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the Bird Safe Buildings Act, requiring bird-safety building features to be implemented in construction and renovation of state-owned buildings in Illinois.

But Prince said she has heard bird strikes are increasing in the West Loop, as skyscrapers, stores and restaurants bring more glass to downtown Chicago. Thrushes, orioles, woodpeckers, yellow-bellied sapsuckers and herons are among the species of birds she and her volunteers pick up on any given morning.

"The glass confuses thembecause it's clear and they think they can fly into it, or they think it's a tree and it's really the reflection of a tree," said Prince.

Prince said sometimes she finds birds that weigh as little as two pennies. They're spectacular, she said. Bright orange, yellow and red.

2023 Chicago Tribune.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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In the center of this NASA photograph taken in 2012, Petermann Glacier in northwest Greenland gradually moves toward the ocean, with large segments breaking off and drifting away as icebergs. Researchers at UCI and NASA JPL used satellite data from three European missions to learn how warm ocean water is causing the migration of the glaciers grounding line, leading to its rapid deterioration. NASA

While conducting a study of Petermann Glacier in northwest Greenland, researchers at the University of California, Irvine and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory uncovered a previously unseen way in which the ice and ocean interact. The glaciologists said their findings could mean that the climate community has been vastly underestimating the magnitude of future sea level rise caused by polar ice deterioration.

Using satellite radar data from three European missions, the UCI/NASA team learned that Petermann Glacier's grounding linewhere ice detaches from the land bed and begins floating in the oceanshifts substantially during tidal cycles, allowing warm seawater to intrude and melt ice at an accelerated rate. The group's results are the subject of a paper published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"Petermann's grounding line could be more accurately described as a grounding zone, because it migrates between 2 and 6 kilometers as tides come in and out," said lead author Enrico Ciraci, UCI assistant specialist in Earth system science and NASA postdoctoral fellow. "This is an order of magnitude larger than expected for grounding lines on a rigid bed."

He said the traditional view of grounding lines beneath ocean-reaching glaciers was that they did not migrate during tidal cycles, nor did they experience ice melt. But the new study replaces that thinking with knowledge that warm ocean water intrudes beneath the ice through preexisting subglacial channels, with the highest melt rates occurring at the grounding zone.

The researchers found that as Petermann Glacier's grounding line retreated nearly 4 kilometers2 milesbetween 2016 and 2022, warm water carved a 670-foot-tall cavity in the underside of the glacier, and that abscess remained there for all of 2022.

"These ice-ocean interactions make the glaciers more sensitive to ocean warming," said senior co-author Eric Rignot, UCI professor of Earth system science and NASA JPL research scientist. "These dynamics are not included in models, and if we were to include them, it would increase projections of sea level rise by up to 200 percentnot just for Petermann but for all glaciers ending in the ocean, which is most of northern Greenland and all of Antarctica."

The Greenland ice sheet has lost billions of tons of ice to the ocean in the past few decades, the PNAS paper stresses, with most of the loss caused by warming of subsurface ocean waters, a product of Earth's changing climate. Exposure to ocean water melts the ice vigorously at the glacier front and erodes resistance to the movement of glaciers over the ground, causing the ice to slide more quickly to the sea, according to Rignot.

More information: Enrico Ciraci et al, Melt rates in the kilometer-size grounding zone of Petermann Glacier, Greenland, before and during a retreat, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220924120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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Evaluators prior belief that the leader has chosen high investment and leaders investment decisions, by the leaders gender. Credit: SSRN Electronic Journal (2022). DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4143384

New research finds that female leaders are given the benefit of the doubt when they do not achieve positive results.

While those evaluating the performance of male and female leaders do not attribute positive results differently, they blame the negative outcomes of male leaders on their selfish decisions, while those of female leaders are put down to bad luck.

The study, by researchers at the University of East Anglia in the UK, and University of Melbourne and Monash University in Australia, finds that the observed gender biases in such assessments are exhibited by men, and to some extent, evaluators who act in a more prosocial manner, that is, in a way that benefits others.

In both the public and private sectors, leaders often make decisions that affect the well-being of others. For example, political leaders make policy choices that affect the welfare of their constituents. In many situations, they face a choice between maximizing their own payoffs and maximizing the payoffs of others. In these types of environments, traditional gender roles or stereotypes might imply that women may be expected to act in a more altruistic way.

In this study, published in the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, the researchers asked how leaders' decisions are evaluated and whether evaluators are biased in their attribution of outcomes between female and male leaders in such environments.

"Due to society's growing demand for social responsibility, those in leadership roles are under more scrutiny than ever before," said Dr. Boon Han Koh, of UEA's School of Economics and Centre for Behavioural and Experimental Social Science. "As a result, leaders across the board are expected to be aware of their impact on social welfare and engage in more prosocial activities."

"The actions of leaders are motivated by prosociality, which in turn have consequences on the welfare of group that they are leading. It is therefore important to understand whether male and female leaders are assessed differently, since the evaluations are likely to affect individuals' decision-making processes."

"We find that positive outcomes of male and female leaders are not treated differently, suggesting that men and women are deemed to be equally altruistic after being seen to achieve positive results."

"However, while the low outcomes of male leaders are blamed more on their selfish decisions, those of female leaders are attributed more to bad luck. Hence, in the case of failure, men are assigned more blame than women and perceived as being selfish."

The researchers used a laboratory setting to measure individuals' perceptions about the actions of others. They focused on a decision-making environmentthe type common in many leadership settingswhere the actions of leaders affected the welfare of the group they were in charge of.

The actions taken by the leaders could not be observed by the other group members, the evaluators, meaning they were judged on the outcomes they delivered. However, their gender was revealed to the rest of their group. The team found biases in the attribution of outcomes that seemed to favor women, but warn this might not be a good thing.

"One interpretation of our results is that male evaluators may see the need to treat female leaders more favorably, therefore giving them a greater benefit of the doubt in the face of failure," said Dr. Nisvan Erkal from the University of Melbourne.

"A possible explanation for this is benevolent sexism, which tends to lead to behaviors toward women that are often characterized as prosocial. It is driven by the stereotype that women need to be protected."

Prof Lata Gangadharan, of Monash University, added, "Even though biases in the attribution of negative outcomes as observed in our study seem to favor women, such biases may still lead to adverse outcomes for women.

"For example, gender biases in evaluations that favor women may hinder the development of their careers and increase the possibility of backlash against female leaders in the long run. They may also lead to distortions in the incentives provided to all decision makers in positions of power, male and female, and harm the future actions taken by them."

For the experiment 350 participants were put into groups of three, with one person randomly assigned as the leader who made a series of investment decisions on behalf of the group.

The leader faced a trade-off between choosing a costly investment which led to a positive outcome (high payoff) for the group, or a less costly investment which had a higher chance of a negative outcome (low payoff) for the group.

Therefore, the leader could either act prosocially (costly investment which increases the group's chance of getting a positive outcome), or selfishly (less costly investment which increases the group's chance of getting a negative outcome).

The research is published in the SSRN Electronic Journal.

More information: Nisvan Erkal et al, Do Women Receive Less Blame Than Men? Attribution of Outcomes in a Prosocial Setting, SSRN Electronic Journal (2022). DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.4143384
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Schematic diagram of extreme rainfall impacts on rice yield. Credit: Nature Food (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00753-6

A study led by researchers at Peking University in China suggests that extreme rainfall will significantly threaten global food production due to climate change and the accompanying extreme weather events.

The paper, "Extreme rainfall reduces one-twelfth of China's rice yield over the last two decades," published in the journal Nature Food, used long-term weather observations and multi-level rainfall manipulative experiments to explore the magnitude and mechanisms of extreme rainfall impacts on rice yield.

The study found reductions due to extreme rainfall were comparable to those induced by extreme heat over the last two decades, projecting up to 8.1% in lost yield by the year 2100. Jonathan Proctor has published a News & Views article in the same journal issue discussing the study.

Researchers designed a comprehensive series of conditional rainfall experiments to isolate the mechanisms related to extreme rainfall impacts. In the experiments, four rainfall levels of intensity and event frequency were used to observe the impacts on three different growth phases; vegetative, reproductive, and ripening.

Under various conditions of rain intensity, water volume, plant exposure and nitrogen manipulation, with multiple controls, the researchers could differentiate biophysical and biochemical mechanisms operating on distinct growth phases.

Extreme rainfall with high intensity damaged plant tissues directly in some instances. In other scenarios, high-volume rain limited nutrient uptake by washing out or waterlogging soil. There was also a clear sign that during the reproductive phase extreme rainfall was preventing successful pollination.

Rainfall simulations across China showed that physical disturbance induced by extreme rainfall was the most critical yield determinant across 47% to 95% of rice sowing areas, accounting for approximately an 8% reduction in yield already, separate from the projected 8.1% reduction by the end of the century. The authors suggest that future farmers of China could choose areas to sow that will be less affected by increases in extreme weather events.

A substantial percentage of humans live in China, with more than 18% of all humans calling it home. Conditions that affect the food supply of China have wide-ranging impacts on economies, agriculture and water usage around the world.

China currently imports rice from Vietnam, Pakistan, India, Burma, Thailand and is Asia's largest buyer of California rice. Each of these regions will have their own issues with crop yield due to a changing climate, so understanding the mechanisms behind these impacts helps all producers better prepare for an agricultural future that is changing along with the climate.

More information: Jin Fu et al, Extreme rainfall reduces one-twelfth of China's rice yield over the last two decades, Nature Food (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00753-6 Jonathan Proctor, Extreme rainfall reduces rice yields in China, Nature Food (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00757-2 Journal information: Nature Food

 2023 Science X Network
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Lamis Amer, a fourth-year industrial engineering doctoral student, has spent the past three years developing a decision-making model that could help communities adapt septic systems in response to climate change. Credit: Joshua Prezant/University of Miami

A University of Miami industrial engineering graduate student has conducted research that shows which sites in Miami-Dade County are at risk and proposes strategies to make those systems more resilient to sea level rise.

It is a scenario that plays out at least three times a year at Matthew Lawrence's Central Broward County home: torrential rains saturate the drain field in his backyard, causing his septic system to operate inefficiently.

"It's never gotten to the point where sewage comes to the surface, and that's owing to the fact that I maintain my system well and take proper precautions," said Lawrence, a commercial and residential developer. "But what's going to happen when storms get worse and the rains heavier?"

For many residents in coastal areas impacted by climate change, that question already has been answered. As prolonged rains and rising seas continue to raise water table levels, their septic systems are failing, causing wastewater to back up into their homes and creating risks to clean water, ecosystems, and public health.

The solution, according to a University of Miami College of Engineering graduate student, lies not solely in connecting existing septic systems to public sewer lines but also in finding alternative adaptation strategies to make those systems more resilient to the effects of climate change.

"Connecting to a municipal sewer line is not always a feasible option, especially for residents who live outside city service areas, so they need to rely on septic to dispose of their home's wastewater," said Lamis Amer, a fourth-year industrial engineering doctoral student.

"But today, with more precipitation and flooding raising groundwater levels, some septic systems aren't functioning as they should. So, we need to look at adaptation strategies like mound systems and micro sewer treatment plants to mitigate the risks climate change poses to septic systems."

Amer has spent the past three years studying those risks and developing a decision-making model that could help communities adapt septic systems in response to climate change.

Her research is part of a study led by her faculty mentor, associate professor Murat Erkoc, who is applying principles of systems engineering to help coastal communities in Florida and elsewhere deal with and mitigate the effects of sea level rise.

With about 2.6 million septic tanks in Florida120,000 in Miami-Dade County alone, according to the environmental nonprofit Miami WaterkeeperAmer's research couldn't be timelier, she noted.

Using records from Miami-Dade's Open Data Hub as well as other publicly available sources, she identified properties in the county that have active septic systems, then designed a resilience index scale of 0 to 1 to determine how resilient those septic systems are to the effects of rising groundwater. She eliminated septic systems that had been abandoned.

She used current sea levels rates and examined other data such as a property's proximity to flood-risk zones, finding that nearly 32% of the existing sites in her study have a resilience index below 0.5 and that approximately 18% have a resilience index less than 0.1.

"A resilience index of 1 means that the system is not subject to failure; or if it did malfunction, the likelihood of polluting other freshwater sources would be minimal," Amer explained. "Lower resilience values mean that those systems are not meeting the minimum operating requirements for septic and could already be contaminating groundwater."

As sea levels continue to rise, septic sites that are currently resilient could be compromised, she warned.

Amer said her results, which she plans to share with Miami-Dade and EPA officials, can help inform decisions about which septic sites should be prioritized for adaptation measures.

She also hopes to expand her study to examine how climate change is contributing to higher rates of septic system failures in poorer, underserved communities.

In a move to safeguard public health and natural areas such as Biscayne Bay, Miami-Dade is already addressing the problem of failing septic systems, implementing its Connect to Protect program aimed at extending sanitary sewer service to residents with septic systems. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava recently detailed that program at the University's Climate and Health Symposium, where Amer's study won first place in a student research competition.

For properties that cannot connect to sewer lines, adaptation strategies proposed in her study would be beneficial, she pointed out.

The mound system Amer describes is an option for areas with shallow soil depth and high groundwater. Waste from the septic tank flows to a pump chamber, where it is pumped to a mound. Treatment of the wastewater occurs as it is discharged to the trench and filtered through the sand, then dispersed into the native soil.

"Micro sewer treatment systems, also known as community sewer systems, are compact, self-contained wastewater treatment plants that serve a limited number of residences," Amer explained.

The graduate student, who also has conducted research on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions from coal supply chain networks, said industrial and systems engineers can be valuable assets in helping to combat climate change. "We develop decision models to optimize solutions to problems," she said. "So, our skill set can certainly be applied to tackle problems of a changing climate."
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Contours present the climatological oceanic barotropic stream function [69], which locates the major subtropical ocean gyres. On the right panel, the arrows illustrate the significant features of atmospheric (red) and upper oceanic (black) circulation. Under the forcing of increasing greenhouse gases, background subtropical ocean gyres promote enhanced subtropical ocean warming by converging the upper ocean water. The enhanced subtropical warming expands the low latitude warm water zones, pushes the mid-latitude MTGs toward higher latitudes, and thus forces tropical expansion. Figure modified from Yang et al. [10]. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration OISSTv2 data [70] were used to calculate the linear SST trend. Please refer to the article for the references cited here. Credit: Ocean-Land-Atmosphere Research (2023). DOI: 10.34133/olar.0004

Scientific evidence shows that the tropical belt around the middle of the globe is expanding. For years scientists have proposed different mechanisms that might explain this expansion. A team of researchers has now determined that the poleward advancing mid-latitude meridional temperature gradient plays a leading role in the tropical expansion.

Their work is published in the journal Ocean-Land-Atmosphere Research.

In 2006, scientists discovered that the Hadley Circulation, which determines the tropical belts, is expanding towards higher latitudes under changing climate. This expansion reshapes the patterns of precipitation, winds, clouds, and storms, and may potentially contribute to the migration of global populations.

"Despite the importance of this phenomenon, the underlying mechanisms driving tropical expansion have been debated for more than 17 years without reaching a consensus," said Hu Yang, now a principal investigator at the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), China. "Many scientists believe that the mechanism is very complex."

However, Yang and his colleagues think it can be very simple. In 2020, they published a paper, suggesting that tropical expansion is driven by poleward advancing of the meridional temperature gradient, which arises from the spatially non-uniform ocean warming pattern.

However, this idea was questioned by several existing studies based on idealized experiments. For example, an earlier study found that in the abrupt 4xCO 2 experiment, when the atmospheric CO 2 content is instantaneously quadrupled on the coupled oceanatmosphere models, it results in an abrupt expansion of the tropics. Other scientists with differing views do not believe that the ocean can introduce a rapid migrations of temperature gradients because of the thermostat of the ocean.

Furthermore, without involving any sea surface temperature warming pattern, the amip4K experiment, which introduce uniform 4 K ocean temperature anomaly into the atmospheric model, also reproduce tropical expansion, seeming contradict Yang's hypothesis.

In 2023, the research team revisited these experiments, and found that they in fact all support the idea that the shift of meridional temperature gradients drives tropical expansion.

The abrupt 4xCO 2 experiment they revisited demonstrated a rapid subtropical ocean warming, which promotes abrupt migration of the mid-latitude meridional temperature gradient and tropical expansion. The amip4K experiment they revisited showed a consistent poleward shift of the mid-latitude meridional temperature gradient and jet streams in the troposphere, despite uniform surface warming. These are all in line with the meridional temperature gradient mechanism.

The team also used an idealized global cooling experiment, to further simulate tropical expansion under conditions of reducing static stability and poleward shifting of the meridional temperature gradient. All of their results supported their hypothesis that meridional temperature gradient migration is the key driver of tropical expansion.

"The shift of the meridional temperature gradient can simply and consistently explain almost all the features of tropical expansion," said Hu Yang. Looking ahead, the team hopes their study of tropical expansion is helpful for future research. "We hope this study can end the long debate of mechanism of tropical expansion, and scientists can use this mechanism to better understand and predict the tropical expansion in a changing climate."

More information: Hu Yang et al, Evaluating the Mechanism of Tropical Expansion Using Idealized Numerical Experiments, Ocean-Land-Atmosphere Research (2023). DOI: 10.34133/olar.0004

Provided by Ocean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)
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For the past three months, much of the kingdom has been choking on dangerous air pollution.

Trudging along Bangkok's hot and dusty streets, green candidates struggle to canvass support ahead of Thailand's election, with record-breaking pollution failing to spur anything more than political hot air.

For the past three months, much of the kingdom has been choking on dangerous air pollution, with smoke from forest fires and farmers burning crop stubble suffocating northern Chiang Mai and cloaking the capital with hazardous smog.

Despite the region facing recent record-breaking heatwaves and worsening flooding due in part to rising sea levels, green movements have gained little traction with Thai voters.

"People acknowledge it but they have no hope that politicians can solve this problem," Green Party leader and founder Phongsa Choonaem told AFP while he campaigned for the May 14 vote.

As he distributed tree leaves rather than paper flyers to bemused bystanders, he said the public's understanding of environmental issues was improving.

But the party is fielding just a handful of candidates for the 500-seat lower house.

"We are not aiming for the prime minister position, we want to solve the environmental problem," said Phongsa.

'Public health crisis'

Thailand's election is gearing up to be a clash between reformist movementsthe Pheu Thai and Move Forward partiesand establishment outfits like Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha's new United Thai Nation Party.

Despite Southeast Asia being among the most vulnerable regions in the world to climate change, green movements have gained little traction with voters.

But alongside the circus of parties vying to outbid each other with populist welfare policies, environmental issues have been a sideshow.

Move Forward has rolled out proposals to drive growth and reduce carbon emissions, including agricultural subsidies and promoting electric vehicle technology, while Pheu Thai has pledged to stop the stubble burning within a year.

Pheu Thaialong with PPRP, and the Democrat Partyhas also backed a version of the Clean Air Act, initially drafted and proposed by the citizen think tank Clean Air Network (CAN).

"This is a real public health crisis," said CAN's Weenarin Lulitanonda, noting that about two million people have needed hospital treatment this year because of air pollution.

She cautiously welcomed politicians finally talking about the issue, but characterised many of their election promises as "loosey-goosey" in detail.

Delivering results in the form of legislation is what will count, she said.

A long-time campaigner on air pollution, Weenarin said voters' growing awareness of the issue was encouraging, but warned against framing it as a choice between the environment on one side and economic growth, healthcare and democracy on the other.

"These things can be done in parallel, because maintaining your health and being alive is a really important precondition for any other issue that you care about," she said.

Smoke from forest fires and farmers burning crop stubble has suffocating northern Chiang Mai and cloaked Bangkok with hazardous smog.

"This is something that has to be above political or business interests, whether that's the case or not is to be seen."

Hampering substantive change is Thailand's system of political patronage, in which wealthy clans leverage links to further their business interests, said Danny Marks, assistant professor of environmental politics and policy at Dublin City University.

Air pollution is blamed on poor rural farmers burning their crops, he said, but they are paid by huge multinational Thai firms.

"Those who benefit basically from everyone breathing the bad air, unfortunately, are those who are quite close to the government," Marks told AFP.

He noted that even leading opposition parties like Pheu Thai had never prioritised air pollution or environmental issues.

"I think they have always been allied to big business," Marks said.

'Hear us'

The northern city of Chiang Mai, long a favourite with backpackers, has this year earned an unenviable international reputation for poor air quality, regularly beating notorious hotspots such as Beijing and Delhi in the list of most polluted cities.

Alongside the circus of parties vying to outbid each other with populist welfare policies, environmental issues have been a sideshow.

Verapol Charasirilert was studying in Chiang Mai but returned to Bangkok because the pollution was so bad.

"I don't think political parties have enough policies on the environment," the 19-year-old told AFP, saying he planned to vote for Move Forward.

An ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute climate report late last year found 66 percent of Thais felt political parties did not prioritise climate change enough.

On the front line of the public health crisis caused by pollution, Chiang Mai cardiologist Rungsrit Kanjanavanit agreed.

"The policymakers need to understand the science and they need to realise the importance of it," he told AFP.

"People have been yelling, screaming a lot so they are beginning to hear us."

 2023 AFP
Michigan Supreme Court Embroiled in Pronoun Battle Prompted by ACLU -- Thomas More Law Center Joins Fray





NEWS PROVIDED BY

Thomas More Law Center

May 8, 2023



ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 8, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- On Monday, May 1, the Thomas More Law Center ("TMLC") filed its written opposition in the Michigan Supreme Court challenging the wisdom of a proposed amendment to Michigan Court Rule 1.109, which would require all judges in the state to refer to parties and attorneys by any personal pronoun they select.



Erin Elizabeth Mersino, TMLC's Chief of Supreme Court and Appellate Practice, authored the eight-page opposition to the proposed rule. She commented that the proposed amendment "is the ACLU's latest attempt to destroy the very fabric of our nation by subjugating our inalienable right to free speech to mandatory endorsement of its transgender agenda." The proposed amendment is so extreme, judges will no longer be able to make judgments on a case-by-case basis. Failure to use a requested pronoun could result in the judge being punished for violating the court rule by the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission.



The pronoun controversy erupted when Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Mark Boonstra criticized the other two members of the three-panel court over their use of the Defendant's preferred pronoun in a concurring opinion in People v. Gorbick. The Defendant, convicted of multiple counts of criminal sexual abuse on children and self-identifying as having multiple personality disorder, told the court he wanted to use the preferred pronoun, "they" and "them." Judge Boonstra expressed his concern for blindly following such a request and wrote that the court "should not be altering its lexicon whenever an individual prefers to be identified in a manner contrary to what society throughout human history has understood to be immutable truth."



Read Judge Mark Boonstra's one-page concurring opinion here.



The ACLU along with 18 other LGBTQ organizations including the LGBTQA section of the Michigan State Bar Association sent a letter to Chief Justice McCormack of the Michigan Supreme Court and Chief Judge Gleicher of the Michigan Court of Appeals condemning Judge Boonstra's words. The letter also suggested that judges undergo "cultural competency training [a.k.a. indoctrination camp] which would include training on the use of pronouns."



The proposed amendment to the court rule provides:

"Parties and attorneys may also include any personal pronouns in the name section of the caption, and courts are required to use those personal pronouns when referring to or identifying the party or attorney, either verbally or in writing. Nothing in this subrule prohibits the court from using the individual's name or other respectful means of addressing the individual if doing so will help ensure a clear record."

Read TMLC's written opposition to the proposed rule here.



Although the proposed rule covers judges only, TMLC is concerned that this is the first step down the slippery slope. If the ACLU and its allies succeed in forcing pronouns on judges, the next demand will be on the lawyers, and then all the people.



Richard Thompson, TMLC's president, observed, "Every freedom-loving American must be alert to this form of thought control. By controlling our use of language, the ACLU seeks to control our ability to discern and think. The 'name your pronoun game' has become the absurd obsession of a significant number of large corporations, many law firms, and of academia. Now, this variation of wokeness poses a danger to our national security as the U.S. Navy is foolishly using a drag queen video in an attempt to increase recruiting. Ignoring the disastrous financial consequences of having a drag queen promote Bud Light beer, the U.S. Navy sees nothing wrong with using a drag queen to attract young men with similar bizarre sexual eroticism [autogynephilia] to infiltrate their fighting ships."



Click here to view a short video of the Navy's Drag Queen Digital Ambassador.



Thompson continued, "The ACLU has become an instrument of tyranny. If the Michigan Supreme Court adopts the proposed amendment, it will be up to Michigan judges to stop this madness."



This proposed amendment creates a serious constitutional problem. It would compel judges to adopt and express a uniform viewpoint that affirms the ACLU's extreme position on gender identity ideology. It flies directly in the face of the First Amendment. The proposed rule also reflects the sad state of our society where the far-left cares more about misgendering and offending the feelings of a convicted pedophile than it does about upholding free speech and the inalienable rights protected by the United States Constitution.



The Thomas More Law Center's written opposition filed in the Michigan Supreme Court, concludes:

"The State Bar of Michigan has no right to force this compulsion. In its ostensible effort to be 'tolerant' or 'diverse,' it would, in fact, be enacting the least tolerant court rule in all its history. It would be taking a side in the culture warone that it knows would alienate all of its members who disagree with the amendment for religious, political, moral, personal, constitutional, or scientific reasons."

The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America's Judeo-Christian heritage and moral values. It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America. The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities. It does not charge for its services. The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization. You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.



SOURCE Thomas More Law Center



Contact: Erin Elizabeth Mersino, 734-827-2001


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Democratic Republic of Congo.

The death toll from floods and landslides triggered by heavy rain in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo has risen to nearly 400, an official said on Sunday.

At least 394 bodies have been recovered after last week's floods, said Thomas Bakenga, administrator of Kalehe territory where the affected villages are located.

He had announced a toll of at least 203 people on Saturday.

Heavy rainfall in the Kalehe region of South Kivu province on Thursday caused rivers to overflow, triggering landslides that engulfed the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi.

The hillside also gave way at Nyamukubi, where the weekly market was held on Thursday, Bakenga has previously said.

"It's like the end of the world. I'm looking for my parents and my children," Gentille Ndagijimana said, tears in her eyes.

The 27-year-old and her family had sought refuge in Nyamukubi after fleeing fighting in neighbouring North Kivu province between army forces and rebels in January.

Now, she has lost her two children, two sisters and parents, while her husband is injured and in hospital.

"I no longer have a family and I don't have a field. Now, I have to look for somewhere to sleep," she added.

Mud and stones fill one neighbourhood, where homes, a market, two schools, a health centre, community hall and warehouse once stoodnow all gone.

Bakenga told AFP on Sunday by telephone that there were now "more than 390 bodies recovered".

He said that 142 bodies were discovered at Bushushu, 132 at Nyamukubi and 120 had been found floating on Lake Kivu near Idjwi, an island in the middle of the large volcanic lake.

"Since Thursday we've been finding bodies every minute and we are burying them," Bakenga said.

National mourning

The provincial government has sent a boat filled with beans, flour and other food, tarpaulins and medicine, he said.

In all, several villages were submerged, many houses washed away, and fields devastated, when rivers in the region burst their banks due to the heavy rains.

"Out of 11 people in the family, only two remain," Roger Bahavu, a father of seven, told AFP.

He went out to see friends after work and returned home later to find it and his family gone.

Isaac Habamungu, a Red Cross worker in the area, said there was no funding for the recovery effort.

Teams were digging "with hands and some shovels" to search for bodies, he said.

A day of national mourning will be observed on Monday, with flags lowered at half-mast "in memory of the lost compatriots", the government announced.

It also said it would deploy a government mission to support provincial authorities in dealing with the "disaster".

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) also said it had sent an emergency team to the scene on Saturday.

Eastern DR Congo's disaster came two days after floods killed at least 131 people and destroyed thousands of homes in neighbouring Rwanda, which lies on the other side of Lake Kivu.

On Saturday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres offered his condolences to the victims of the "catastrophic floods" in Rwanda and DR Congo.

"This is yet another illustration of accelerating climate change and its disastrous impact on countries that have done nothing to contribute to global warming," he said during a visit to Burundi.

Experts say extreme weather events are happening with increased frequency and intensity due to climate change.

Last month, a landslide provoked by torrential downpours killed around 20 people in North Kivu, a province that neighbours South Kivu.

DR Congo, a vast nation the size of continental western Europe, is one of the poorest countries in the world, riddled by corruption and conflict in its east.

 2023 AFP
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Male coqui calling in El Yunque, Puerto Rico. Credit: K. Wells

The coqui frog is one of Puerto Rico's most iconic animals. It gets its name from its distinctive two-note call, "co-qui," which can be heard throughout the island every night. The males of the species produce these calls to mark their territory and ward away rivals, but scientists can also use them to study the changing climate.

Peter Narins of the University of California, Los Angeles will describe changes in the calls of the coqui frog over a 23-year period in his talk, "Climate change drives frog call change in Puerto Rico: Predictions and implications." The presentation will take place Monday, May 8, at 2:40 p.m. Eastern U.S. in room Chicago F/G, as part of the 184th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America running May 8-12 at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile Hotel.

Over two decades ago, Narins recorded the sounds of the coqui frog along the slopes of Puerto Rico's El Yunque Peak. His team discovered the calls changed based on elevation. Like all amphibians, coqui frogs are highly sensitive to changes in temperature. On cold mountain peaks, the frogs grow larger than in warmer valleys, and this size discrepancy is reflected in their calls.

"Coqui that produced short, high-pitched calls at high rates lived near the base of the mountain, while the calls of animals living near the mountain's peak were longer, lower-pitched, and repeated less frequently," said Narins.

Upon returning to the mountain two decades later, Narins and a team including colleague Sebastiaan Meenderink discovered that every frog call had grown higher in pitch.

"In order to record a call with certain characteristics we had to move to a slightly higher altitude," said Meenderink. "It was as if all the animals had moved up the mountain."

This mini-migration corresponds with the temperature shift induced by climate change and foreshadows a dire future for the coqui. As temperatures continue to rise, the frogs will continue to retreat up the mountain until they run out of room.

"For now, the consequences are not dire," said Meenderink. "A barely perceptible change in frog body size and call has little impact on the environment. However, if left unabated, the temperature increase will eventually cause a collapse of the coqui population, which will be catastrophic for the Puerto Rican ecosystem."
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Property owner Adam Norris surveys the damage from wildfires at his home in Drayton Valley, Alberta, Canada.

Canada struggled on Monday to control wildfires that have forced thousands to flee, halted oil production and razed towns, with the western province of Alberta calling for federal help.

Some 30,000 people were ordered to leave their homes over the past three days, as nearly 100 fires flared across the provinceincluding 27 out of control.

Federal disaster officials and the military were on standby, after Alberta leader Danielle Smith spoke with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally ask for assistance.

"Canadians stand with the people of Alberta as they deal with these terrible, terrible wildfires," Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa.

"We were watching images from the communities affected by these wildfires and I assured Danielle that we will be there to help," he said.

Details of what supports would be made available were not immediately released.

In Alberta, firefighters prioritized dousing flames threatening homes and businesses. Many roads near the provincial capital Edmonton were blocked off as temporary shelters welcomed evacuees.

Officials said 390,000 hectares had burned, patients and long-term care residents had to be relocated and many schools were closed.

Oil firmsincluding Vermilion Energy and Crescent Point Energyannounced temporary shutdowns of operations, slashing production by more than 125,000 barrels of oil per day.

Many residents and oil workers rode to safety in motorhomes or with campers in tow, and set up in empty parking lots.

A helicopter carrying a "Bambi Bucket" flies toward a forest fire near the town of Drayton Valley in Canada's Alberta province.

Others are staying with friends or family, like Jerry Greiner, a resident from Dayton Valley, west of Edmonton, the capital of Alberta.

"We could see the smoke on Friday and there was a pretty strong wind," the 55-year-old told AFP, his eyes tearing up as he recounted receiving the order to evacuate that night.

"We quickly grabbed our bags (and went) to our friends' house. About 12 people stayed there," he said. This was the first time Greiner has ever had to flee wildfires.

Dayton Valley, a small town of 7,000, was completely abandoned. Trees and grass fields all around were blackened by the fires, and smoke billowed from a few charred buildings, but most of the homes appeared intact, observed an AFP reporter.

Black smokey skies

It was not clear when residents would be permitted to return.

Resident Randy Braun, 57, said the fire chief told locals it would be "at least a week minimum."

Smith said the fires "may continue on for several months," but added that evacuation orders had been lifted in the morning for three communities.

Kathy Bereuwski, 61, escaped with her family and dogs. "The sky," she told AFP, "was pitch black" with smoke and falling ash.

In the northern community of Fox Lake, a fire destroyed 20 homes, a store and a police station. Residents had to be evacuated by boat and helicopter.

It was not clear when residents would be permitted to return.

The Alberta premier declared a state of emergency on Saturday, calling the wildfire situation "unprecedented."

The provinceone of the world's largest oil-producing regions"has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," she said.

Almost all of Alberta as well as much of neighboring Saskatchewan province, parts of British Columbia and a large swath of the Northwest Territories face extreme fire risks.

Two out-of-control wildfires in westernmost British Columbia have also forced residents to evacuate, and authorities have warned they expect strong winds to swell those blazes.

In recent years, western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, the intensity and frequency of which have increased due to global warming.

Forest fires in Canada's oil sands region in 2016 disrupted production and forced out 100,000 residents from Fort McMurray, pummelling the nation's economy.

More recently in 2021, British Columbia suffered record-high temperatures over the summer that killed more than 500 people, as well as wildfires that destroyed an entire town.

That was followed by devastating floods and mudslides.

Christie Tucker, a spokesperson with Alberta's wildfire agency, said Monday brought "a continuation of yesterday's break in the hot weather across most of the province, with light scattered showers."

"It's a much needed chance to make progress on some of these powerful, challenging wildfires," she said. "But we're not out of the woods yet."

 2023 AFP
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EASTON  With roughly 8,000 people from the local area and beyond moseying around at the Washington County Antique Fair this weekend, the events organizers are always looking to grow.

Michael Green, manager of the fair since 2006, said that the antique fair is always looking to maximize the best for both exhibitors and customers. This year he said the fair was packed to the brim with both.

We have 209 exhibitors here but we sold 268 spaces. There are some people who double up on spots. Weve had more dealers in the past before COVID, but were selling the same number of spaces, he said.

The Washington County Fairgrounds hosts the fair of collectibles and Rebecca Breese, co-manager, said the community-driven event is able to not only be reflected in Washington County, but others among the upstate region, as well.

Were hosting a community event, were bringing people into the community that maybe have or havent been here before, she said. They come and support the exhibitors and vendors. Then they go out into the community and theyre supporting other locations, as we have seen more organizations pop up with their own mini antique show. People are spending a whole day or more in Washington County.

Green explained that the fair has been running at the fairgrounds for 28 years and was started by his uncle, George. The first show had around 30 dealers and used a smaller portion of the fairgrounds.

He retired and went to Florida so I took over. I had one year where I was working with him, then I took over and have been doing it since then, he said. They were mostly contained to one building and a couple of the pole barns and that was the whole show.

One change for this year was moving the entrance to the fair to have enough parking for attendees. What started in one small back parking lot is now using the same parking and entrance as the county fair.

Since we started growing its become too small, so we switched things over to the Route 29 entrance and parking lot, he said.

As group of people meandered their way through the buildings and pole barns of the fairgrounds, the smell of fries, pizza, fried dough and more lingered through the air.

Breese said that the food vendors are grateful for more events being hosted beyond the country fair.

This is another event that they get to open up for and make money for their charitable organization, she said. Prior to the pandemic, everyone talked about losing their income from the fair, but they lost their income from events like this that help get them get startup money for all of their summer programs and camps.

Breese also spoke to the diversity of customers at this years fair. She said that in all her years of watching the antique fair grow, she said she has watched the number of young people in attendance grow.

Eight years ago when I first started coming here it was a rarity that somebody from their 20s was here. It was people looking for fine China or uranium glass. Now its more modern and a bit more reduce, reuse and recycle, she said. You have your useful items and then items that can be repurposed, and I think that is an interesting dynamic.

With goals of a possible online registration next year for exhibitors, Green said the antique fair is something he is always looking to grow.

Were always looking to expand for exhibitors, which is more stuff for people to buy or more variety and have a communal atmosphere, he said.
QUEENSBURY  Warren County Sheriffs Department arrested a 21-year-old woman on Sunday morning for drunk driving, police said.

Alexandria M. Underwood, 21 of Hudson Falls was arrested for driving while intoxicated early Sunday morning following a traffic stop.

In a news release Sunday morning, Underwood was stopped by the police on Upper Glen Street in the Town of Queensbury after her 2014 Subaru was observed committing unspecified traffic violations.

Police said that following an investigation, Underwood was found to be intoxicated and subsequently arrested.

At Sheriffs Office station, Underwood submitted to an evidentiary breath test which yielded a blood alcohol content of .13, more than the legal limit of .08. She was processed for driving while intoxicated and issued multiple traffic tickets before being released on her own recognizance.

The arrest was made by Patrol Office C.R. OBrien.
FORT EDWARD  A new trial is set to begin Monday for the Whitehall man accused of sexually abusing a child younger than 9, after his 2021 conviction was thrown out by an appeals court.

Kenneth Reed was sentenced in June 2021 to 15 years in prison. A Washington County jury found him guilty the previous month on charges of aggravated second-degree sexual abuse, first-degree sexual abuse, as well as a misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child. The verdict came after a weeklong trial.

Police said that Reed had touched the private parts of the girl, with whom he was acquainted, on May 30, 2020. Reed was arrested that September after laboratory reports showed that semen found on the girls underwear contained DNA that matched the genetic profile of Reed or a male relative. In addition, medical experts testified at trial that they did not believe the injuries could have been caused by the girl by accident or fall, which is what the defense had claimed.

Reeds attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, had filed a brief arguing that the victim was improperly allowed to testify without the court first determining whether the child had the intelligence and capacity to give unsworn testimony. The states criminal procedure law does not permit a witness younger than 9 years old to testify unless the court is satisfied that the witness understands the nature of an oath.

It is undisputed that, prior to the child giving unsworn testimony, County Court did not conduct any form of inquiry or examination of the child to determine whether the child possessed sufficient intelligence and capacity to give unsworn testimony, the justices from the Appellate Division, Third Department, wrote in a Nov. 23 decision. Without such inquiry or examination, the court could not make any determination as to whether the child was competent to give unsworn testimony. Indeed, there is no indication that the court made any finding or specific determination of the childs competency.

The justices were not satisfied with the peoples assertion that the initial questioning by the prosecutor and the childs responses satisfied this requirement, mainly because it did not disclose whether the child understood the difference between a truth and a lie.

County Courts error in permitting the child to give unsworn testimony without conducting a prior inquiry ... was not harmless given that the proof of defendants guilt was not overwhelming, they wrote.

Even though the issue of competency was not raised in a timely fashion on appeal, the appellate court set aside the verdict in the interest of justice.

Washington County District Attorney Tony Jordan said the appeal centered on a very technical issue. If a witness is under a certain age, the court has to make a determination whether the child is capable of giving sworn testimony, meaning he or she understands what it means to swear an oath.

If they rule that youre not capable to do that, they can still allow you to give unsworn testimony, he said.

In this case, the court did not make a determination about whether the victim was capable of giving sworn testimony. However, he said it was never the prosecutions intent that she would be sworn in.

Jordan believes the trial would last three or four days, depending on how long it takes for a jury to be seated.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines Life, May 8)  This week, shop for Mothers Day gifts and pre-order a long lost novel, visit a new exhibit, and go on a Jiu Jitsu retreat.

The 2023 Lucas Lepri Jiu-Jitsu camp will be on May 12 to 14 at Club Punta Fuego in Batangas. Photo courtesy of LUCAS LEPRI PHILIPPINES

Go on a Jiu Jitsu retreat with a Brazilian legend

The self-defense martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is known to be a gentle art, as that is the direct English translation of the Japanese term. With Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, fighters dont engage in striking. Instead, they control their resisting opponents in ways that force them to submit. If that type of sport sounds like something up your speed, you can get the chance to learn from a Brazilian legend this May 12 to 14 at the 2023 Lucas Lepri Jiu-Jitsu camp at Club Punta Fuego in Batangas. Beginners and long time practitioners are invited to join the three-day camp, which includes training sessions from International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Hall of Famer Lucas Lepri and other top black belts from the Philippines. To sign up for a solo or group package, send a message to 09957637502 or message @lepribjjphilippines on Instagram.  CNN PHILIPPINES LIFE STAFF

Try the Mixed Berry Crunch and Pistachio Crunch Cake flavors of Krispy Kreme this Mother's Day. Photo courtesy of KRISPY KREME

Show your mom some love with limited Krispy Kreme flavors

Doughnuts have always been one of the go-to menu items in my familys idea of a comfort merienda. Whenever were having a bad afternoon, seeing the red and green dotted box would be enough to completely switch the mood. This week, Im planning to make Mothers Day at home more festive by letting my mom try some twists to her favorite snacks. The new Krispy Kreme Mothers Day collection consists of two flavors never previously released by the doughnut giant: the Mixed Berry Crunch, a regular ring doughnut dipped in a crunchy pastel pink glaze and topped with vanilla kreme, sprinkles, and berry-flavored jellies; and the Pistachio Crunch Cake, a cake doughnut dipped in pastel green pistachio glaze with a sprinkling of roasted pistachios. The regular-shaped doughnuts in the two new flavors are already available at Krispy Kreme branches nationwide, but you can get special M-O-M-shaped ones exclusively from May 12 to 14.  GABY GLORIA

The Philippine edition of Wilfrido D. Nolledos But for The Lovers." Photo courtesy of EXPLODING GALAXIES

Pre-order Wilfrido D. Nolledos But for The Lovers from Exploding Galaxies

How many Filipino literary classics have you missed out on because theyre no longer in circulation? New publishing house Exploding Galaxies is bringing some of these classics back on our bookshelves, with an aim to republish out-of-print works of contemporary Philippine fiction. The publishing house is aiming to put out two to four books a year. Their first offering is Wilfrido D. Nollegos But for the Lovers, a long lost Filipino novel that Nick Joaquin called an outrageous book. The Philippine edition will contain a foreword by author Gina Apostol and an introduction by Vogue Philippines features editor Audrey Carpio. Pre-orders for the book start on May 8 at explodinggalaxies.com.  CNN PHILIPPINES LIFE STAFF

Issy and Co. Lip Bullets in the shades Camp (velvet finish), Motif (velvet finish), Nudity (satin finish), and Fresco (matte finish). Photo by MARGA BUENAVENTURA

Try out Issy and Cos new Lip Bullets

Local beauty brand Issy and Co. has been hitting it out of the park in their last few releases. Their Active Skin Tints (with SPF 35) and the True Flex Illuminators are very much part of my regular rotation, and now their new Lip Bullets (349 each) are making lipstick fun to apply again. The lipstick is launched in a chromatic tube, with a built-in mirror on the side for maximum portability. The shade range is vast: 21 shades, with seven shades each in all three finishes. Theres the matte finish, which offers long-wearing, saturated lip coverage. Matte lipstick used to be huge back in the late 2010s, and as trends move forward to this period, I see matte coming back in a real big way. Theres also the satin finish, which leaves a more sheer finish that can still be buildable. My personal favorite is the velvet finish, a lovely balance between matte and satin. It was love upon first sight. I tried the shade Camp, which the brand describes as a shocking pink. It comes out as more of a bright berry shade on me, and it lasted through a bag of popcorn and a large root beer, fading into a nice stain that lasted for a few hours. By the time I thought of reapplying, I realized that it was already the end of the night. This is one bullet that definitely hits the mark.  MARGA BUENAVENTURA

For more information on Issy and Co. and the Lip Bullet shade range, visit their official Instagram page.

Ikea introduces summer-ready products that are functional, safe, and will add to ones personal sustainability efforts. Photo by MARGA BUENAVENTURA

Check out Ikeas Summer Sustainability Collection

While we hold onto the last few weeks of summer, theres still some time to schedule a quick weekend getaway  whether on your own, with a friend, or with a whole group in tow. Ive enjoyed visiting Ikea for short trip essentials that I can also use post-vacation. At the launch of their seasonal Sustainability Collection, we learned a few travel hacks using some of their products. The Istad resealable bags, which come in varying patterns and sizes, can be used to keep frozen items in the fridge and on outdoor picnics. They showed us how the 10-oz. Istad bags (80, 25 pieces) keep sauces, which you can simply flatten and stow away after use. If youre tasked with keeping bored kids occupied while schools out, Ikea also suggested their Mala paper options. The Mala white rolled paper (250, 30m) option can be attached to an easel (who needs an iPad??) and is chlorine-free bleached paper. Our final stop is a visit to Rags2Riches customization and personalization shop, which is located just outside the third floor checkout counters. They can personalize Ikea products (50 for the first five letters) or use spare fabric to make tote bags with ones size of choice. Its an affordable way to make gifts more personal, perhaps as an early Mothers Day present or a back to school present for someone readying for the next semester.  MB

Ikea is located at the Mall of Asia and online.

And Now We Wander Amid the Debris by Jomari T'leon, Canvas in Shapes by Gino Bueza, and A Record of Horizons by Carina Santos are opening at Blanc Gallery this week. Photos courtesy of BLANC GALLERY

Visit the new exhibits at Blanc Gallery

Quezon Citys Blanc Gallery is opening three new shows this week: Canvas in Shapes by Gino Bueza, A Record of Horizons by Carina Santos; and And Now We Wander Amid the Debris by Jomari T'leon. The shows are on view from May 10 until May 31.

The gallery is located at #145 Katipunan Avenue St. Ignatius Village Quezon City 1110. Visit Blanc Gallery on Facebook for details.  CNN PHILIPPINES LIFE STAFF
From The Post-Star in 1973  50 years ago:

A six-car mini-museum demonstration train made a stop in Glens Falls 50 years ago to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Delaware & Hudson Railroad.

The train included a replica of the Sturbridge Lion, the first steam locomotive operated in the United States.

The train pulled into the Cooper Street rail yard, behind where The Post-Star editorial building is located now, April 25 and departed the morning of April 27 for Montreal. It was open for public tours throughout the day, The Post-Star reported on April 27, 1973.

An estimated 3,000 people toured the train and viewed historical exhibits on display inside rail cars.

Many of these children and adults have never been on a train before, said Matthew Levins, assistant to the D&H president.

Downtown: George and Laura Frey of Kattskill Bay were preparing to open a book store in early June at 206 Glen St., The Colvin Building, in downtown Glens Falls.

Frey said the couple have done research throughout New York and New England for a site and have found Glens Falls to be the best possible location.  He said they have been waiting some time for a vacant store front to open up in Glens Falls.  April 27

Downtown: Spring hats were priced at 50 cents to $1 for the 56th anniversary sale at Merkel & Gelman department store  The Store of Cheerful Service  on Glen Street.  April 27

Rotary: The Glens Falls Rotary Club honored Maurice H. Simmonds as Rotarian of the Year.

The retired Remington Rand employee joined the local Rotary Club in 1927.

Sports trivia: Todd Feigenbaum, Bruce Parsons and Steve Kvinlaug were each double winners as the Glens Falls High School track team defeated Rutland 96-40.  April 30

Editorial: Rising food prices are having an adverse impact not only on family budgets but on the school lunch program. Without positive remedial actions, the number of children who will benefit will decline rather than increase as Congress intended when it established the program. 

Obviously it is going to cost substantially more money to expand the school lunch program and initiate federal support of a widespread nutrition education program in the schools.

Something else is obvious: sound nutrition for school-age children is a basic element in public health. Over the long haul, the benefits will far out measure the cost in tax revenue.  April 27

Quotable: In any organization, the man at the top must bear the responsibility. That responsibility therefore belongs here, in this office. I accept it.  President Richard Nixon, commenting on Watergate at a press conference when he announced a shakeup in his cabinet, May 1
SARANAC LAKE  Dave Kanietakeron Fadden stood next to the favorite of his paintings in the gallery at BluSeed Studios in Saranac Lake on Friday, speaking to a crowd gathered in a semi-circle around him about the history of residential schools.

Behind him were hundreds of sullen faces in black and white. He spoke about how these schools in the U.S. and Canada  which were largely established by Christian missionaries and operated by Christian churches with government funding  stripped Indigenous people of their culture for over a century, taking off their traditional clothes and putting them in military uniforms, cutting their hair and severely punishing them if they spoke their native language.

It is a painful part of his history, one which nearly destroyed that language, he explained.

But this is where we are now, Fadden said, sweeping his arm across the image. At the right-most edge of the canvas, theres an explosion of vibrant color, braided hair and laughter.

Were coming out of that dark period, he said. Were able to practice our culture. Were able to wear our traditional outfits, go to our ceremonies. We have self-determination of our own future.

History

Fadden grew up with artists and creators all around.

His father was an art teacher. His mother, a wood carver and potter. His grandfather, who founded the Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center in Onchiota  which his family still runs  was a prolific bead worker. On the other side of his family, his grandmother was a basket maker and his grandfather made lacrosse sticks.

Everyone did something, Fadden said.

He got his start in the visual arts by drawing on the walls of his parents living room in a corner hidden away by the curve of a sectional sofa.

Caveman art, he called it.

Inevitably, his mother found his sketchings. But rather than scolding him, he said she bought him a desk and materials. He is thankful for her encouragement.

What were those earliest works, crafted in secrecy and hidden away from sight?

Who knows? Fadden said.

He just kept drawing and realized he had a gift. The struggle was to make a living off it. He got his first book illustration job at age 19. He estimates hes produced more than 400 books by now.

It pays the bills, but his passion is painting portraits. His subjects are Indigenous people and people he knows. Fadden said he has always wanted to show the whole range of emotions in their faces.

There are lots of misconceptions in popular culture about Indigenous people that we are all stoic, Fadden said.

There are some grim-faced subjects in his work, but more often there are faces of joy, sadness, excitement and peace.

On the wall opposite the painting of the children is a portrait of a single face, a sub-chief in the Turtle Clan of the Mohawk nation, and Faddens cousin. His laughter can almost be heard from the painting.

Stoic? Not this guy, Fadden said. He was always telling them dirty jokes.

Inspiration

Scattered around the gallery is a series of mosaic-style paintings  portraits made from intricate networks of smaller tiles depicting native patterns, cultural touchstones and pieces of Faddens life in a mix of pointillism and collage.

These images are striking from a distance. But moving closer, close enough to smell the paint, they reward close inspection with hidden treasures, like a Wheres Waldo book. Some premeditated, some just representations of what was on his mind at the time he drew it.

He pointed out a couple: Theres the coronavirus. ... Theres Black Lives Matter. ... Theres Yoda.

Many of his paintings have Star Wars references hidden in them, a tribute to his friend Joe Barnes. Fadden remembers the day he visited Barnes and saw his historic Star Wars memorabilia collection  thousands of pieces.

Barnes died in 2018, so now Fadden paints his memory into every piece he can. On the right side of the painting of the children is a young Barnes, grinning and wearing a pendant with the emblem of the Jedi Order.

Fadden said he was inspired by Chuck Close, a New York City painter whose photorealistic works printed in magazines captivated him as a kid, whose large canvases intrigued him as a young adult and whose creativity in mosaic portraits made him want to expand as an artist. In 1988, Fadden said, Close suffered a collapsed spinal artery, which paralyzed him. He could move his arms, but he couldnt hold a brush. So he would tie a brush to one hand and use the other to guide it.

I was like, Ive got everything here. Whats my excuse? Fadden said.

This is Faddens second solo showing. The first was in 2020, right at the onset of coronavirus pandemic-related lockdowns. But hes been a part of many group shows, including one at BluSeed last year focused on water. After that show, BluSeed Executive Director Marissa Hernandez asked him to do a solo exhibit.

Faddens medium is visual, but he said it speaks to the importance of language in his culture.

His grandmother was in one of these residential schools, and he said she lost the ability to speak Mohawk. If she did, the nuns hit her. She told him about another girl, 6 years of age, who did not speak a word of English. When she spoke Mohawk, the adults would lock her in a windowless closet all night.

She didnt know why because the nuns didnt communicate with her, but she realized it happened when she spoke, so she stayed silent for two years, Fadden said.

Were at a critical stage in our existence, he said.

Language is especially important for Native Americans because they did not have a written language. Traditions, history and politics were all passed on verbally. These schools did a lot of damage, he said. They taught shame as children were told they were going to burn in hell for their spiritualism if they didnt assimilate into Christianity. Residential schools opened after the Civil War and the last school only closed in 1997.

The reference for Faddens painting of the children is a class photo from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which had a class of around 1,000. The man who founded this school is infamous for his motto, Kill the Indian, save the man.

But Faddens painting is titled Kill the Indian. Save the man, fail. These schools failed in killing the Indian, and the evidence is all around at BluSeed.

The free exhibit, sponsored by the Adirondack Diversity Initiative, is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 2 to 6 p.m. Fadden will be back for the exhibit closing and an artist conversation on June 25 from 5 to 7 p.m.
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A private passenger bus collided with a cargo truck on the Pune-Solapur Highway near Kurkumbh in the Daund taluka of the Pune district on Saturday, resulting in two fatalities and five injuries, according to officials. The bus driver has been detained by the Maharashtra Police.

Shobha Gurunath Kalbande (age 45, a resident of Karve Nagar) and Mahadev Bhise (age 45, a resident of Pimpri Chinchwad) have been identified as the deceased.

According to the Daund police, the accident happened at 6 am close to the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation office in Kurkumbh, about 100 km from Pune city. Due to the impact on one side of the vehicle following the collision, as many as seven passengers on the bus suffered injuries. Later, two of them succumbed to their injuries, while five others are receiving medical care at a private hospital.

The three injured has been identified as Rajashree More, Akash Pokarkar and Anil Badekar.

According to the authorities, they believe that the accident was caused when the bus driver lost control of the moving vehicle while it was travelling at a fast pace. Saleem Mehboob, the bus driver, has been arrested for reckless driving and negligence-related death and injury.
Purdue University is among the members of a new institute that will leverage artificial intelligence to help absorb and store carbon in the agriculture and forestry industries. (Photo provided by Shashi Shekhar)

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University has received a five-year, $500,000 grant to play an education and workforce development role in the new $20 million AI Institute for Climate-Land Interactions, Mitigation, Adaptation, Tradeoffs and Economy (AI-CLIMATE).

The institute, led by the University of Minnesota, also includes Cornell University, Colorado State University, Delaware State University, North Carolina State University and the American Indian Higher Education Consortium.

Our ultimate goal is to help facilitate knowledge transfer and the adoption of environmentally favorable practices, said Bruce Erickson, clinical associate professor of digital agriculture in the Department of Agronomy at Purdue. We think we can do that while enhancing the productivity and economic viability of farms and the businesses that support them.

The institute is one of seven new AI Institutes, funded by the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Institute of Food and Agriculture. It is part of a larger federal initiative totaling nearly half a billion dollars to bolster collaborative artificial intelligence research across the country.

Artificial intelligence enables computers to mimic human intelligence. It is tightly intertwined with data science and high-performance computing. Operating together they accelerate information processing in ways that can exceed human capabilities.



Researchers at AI-CLIMATE will work to improve the accuracy and lower the cost of accounting for carbon and greenhouse gases in farms and forests. In the end, this makes the process more accessible to more people.



When farmers touch, smell and look at the soil, they can tell if its carbon-rich or not, said the University of Minnesotas Shashi Shekhar, director of the institute. By 2050, the United States aims to have net-zero carbon emissions, and one of the most promising ways to do this is using natural systems like forestry and agriculture as carbon sinks.



Purdues role will be to guide the collaborations development and deployment of instructional modules and other education related to digital agriculture and artificial intelligence in climate-smart agriculture.



We are also going to develop tools for farmers and agribusiness professionals that will help them to better adopt environmentally favorable practices in farm fields and forests, Erickson said. Some of these tools will originate from the research part of this program.



Erickson helped develop Purdues Agronomy e-Learning Academy, which has delivered online courses to thousands of agriculture professionals in recent years. His work in online education and research related to precision farming adoption earned him the 2018 Educator/Researcher Award of Excellence from the PrecisionAg Institute.



The AI Institutes outreach activities will add content to existing courses and possibly add new courses for undergraduate and graduate students. The institute will also develop learning opportunities for agriculture professionals who work with farmers.



We realize that we need to prepare tomorrows generation, too, Erickson said. That will involve developing activities and materials targeting students in grades six through 12 and their teachers. This effort will include engaging with the National Agriculture in the Classroom, the National Association of Agricultural Educators, the U.S. Forest Service, 4-H and Future Farmers of America.



Some of our educational materials could have multiple uses, Erickson said. The materials would need to be adapted depending on the audience, which could be high school students, graduate students or working professionals, for example. But certain core concepts could be usable among all the groups, he said.



Writer: Steve Koppes

Media contact: Maureen Manier, mmanier@purdue.edu

Source: Bruce Erickson, berickson@purdue.edu

Agricultural Communications: 765-494-8415;

Maureen Manier, Department Head, mmanier@purdue.edu

Agriculture News Page
A 16-year-old boy accused of killing another teen in rural Milan last month made his first court appearance Monday.

The Rock Island County State's Attorney's Office has charged Napoleon Jackson with first-degree murder, home invasion and aggravated battery. The charges stem from the April 14 shooting of 17-year-old Danny Taylor, who was killed at his parents' home. Jackson is charged as an adult.

He was arrested on April 19 in Newton, Iowa, and recently was extradited to Illinois.

At an afternoon hearing on Monday, Jackson appeared before Judge Peter Church. He wore a white T-shirt and jeans. There were shackles around his ankles.

Church read the charges to Jackson and explained the potential sentences he faces should he be convicted: For first-degree murder, the sentence is between 45 and 85 years, and Jackson would have to serve 100%.

On the home invasion charge, he could face anywhere between 21 and 45 years, Church said.

The underlying allegations for the aggravated battery charge were that Jackson shot and wounded a second person, Church read.

That person was identified only by initials, which is customary when a victim is a juvenile.

The identity of the second person was unclear from the information presented during the hearing. Police have said a 15-year-old was wounded in the incident, and he also is charged with murder.

Church asked if Jackson understood the charges and penalties to which the teen answered, "Yes." Asked if he could post the $1 million cash-only bond, Jackson said, "No."

When not replying to the judge, Jackson stood quietly.

The Rock Island County Public Defender's Office has been appointed to represent him. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 23.

Members of Taylor's family were present in the courtroom and sat quietly throughout the proceeding.

The second suspect  the 15-year-old  also faces first-degree murder and home invasion charges. Illinois law dictates all juveniles 15 and younger be charged in juvenile court. His identity has not been released.

Rock Island County Sheriff's Office deputies were sent at 12:44 a.m. on April 14 to the residence, where they found Taylor. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds, and attempts to save him were not successful. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators think there was a confrontation in the home during which several shots were fired.

The 15-year-old arrived at UnityPoint Health-Trinity Rock Island about 20 minutes after the shooting, police said, and also sustained a gunshot wound or wounds. He later was transported to OSF St. Francis in Peoria for further treatment. From there, he was taken to the Mary Davis Detention Home for juveniles in Galesburg.
Sunday's sun shone on the long line of vehicles proceeding from Davenport to Rock Island for the 2023 Quad Cities Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Service.

The annual event recognizes the 49 officers killed in the line of duty from the Quad-Cities and other agencies within a 50-mile radius.

The service began at Adventure Christian Church in Davenport, featuring music, video and various speakers, and the procession ended at the Rock Island County Justice Center. There, attending Gold Star Families were seated as Rock Island County Sheriff Darren Hart kicked off a wreath ceremony.

After opening prayers by Rock Island Police Department Chaplain Don Johnson, acting memorial chaplain Russ Wilson read the names of the fallen.

Each Gold Star Family was given a white flower to place on the wreath on behalf of their fallen loved one.

If no one was present to represent an individual, an officer from one of the other agencies placed the flower, acting in solidarity with families who couldn't attend and those who perished many years in the past.

Rock Island County Sheriff's Deputy Arturo Dominguez, who was stationed next to the ceremonial wreath, filled the role for several officers.

He sees the annual memorial service as, "coming together for everybody."

"The most important thing, for me, is being there for the families," Dominguez said. "It's kind of like something you do but not a lot comes back, but it's not for you. It's for the people (families). I think they're very proud and appreciative of it."

Names were listed, based on the timing of the officers' passing  the final being officer Thomas D. Moore, who served his final day with the Muscatine Police Department on July 12, 1869.

To avoid the recognition of their service "fading away," Dominguez was happy to step up for past generations of fallen officers like Moore.

"They deserve it," he said.

A 21-gun salute and Honor Guard presentation closed the ceremony.

Bruce Eidson came from Macomb to attend the ceremony for the first time.

"It shows the agencies care," he said of the event. "They know that our family members are putting their lives on the line, just like they are, so it just creates one big family."

Eidson attended to honor his nephew, Knox County Sheriff's Deputy Nick Weist, who died just over a year ago Sunday. His was the first name read.

"It's not necessarily a family you want to be a part of because of what's happened," he said. "But, the reality of it is: We have to support one another through triumph and tragedy  and this is the tragedy part."

Participating Honor Guards on Sunday included Davenport, Moline, East Moline and Rock Island police departments; Rock Island and Scott County sheriff's office; and the Iowa State Patrol.

A glimpse at the 2023 Quad Cities Law Enforcement Memorial Service
A shooting at an East Moline apartment complex sent one person to the hospital Saturday afternoon.

Just after 1 p.m., East Moline Police responded to the Blackhawk Hills Apartments for a report of shots fired. Officers found a man with an apparent gunshot wound and immediately rendered first aid.

He was transported to Genesis Medical Center, Silvis, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. His current condition is unknown.

Police found several spent shell casings in the parking lot, and a vehicle was found to be struck by gunfire, police said.

The investigation is ongoing, and police are continuing to interview witnesses and review surveillance video from the area. Also assisting were the Moline Police Department and the Illinois State Police.

Anyone who has any information, regarding this incident is urged to contact the East Moline Police Department Investigations Division at 309-752-1557, CrimeStoppers at 309-762-9500 or utilize the CrimeStoppers P3 App.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 7)  The number of casualties from the brutal assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo has risen to 10 after a victim on Sunday died of gunshot wounds he sustained in the massacre.

On March 4, gunmen entered the home compound of Degamo while he was meeting with constituents and opened fire. The governor and eight others were killed, while 17 were wounded.

Fredilino Cafe Jr. became the 10th fatality as a result of the so-called Pamplona Massacre.

We mourn the passing of Fredilino Cafe Jr., also known as Putok, from the Provincial Engineering Office of Umanod, Santa Catalina, a statement from the late governors official Facebook page read.

His death marks the tenth victim of the Negros Oriental massacre that occurred two months and three days ago in the residence of Governor Degamo, it added.

The statement said that Cafe had been in and out of the hospital due to injuries from the shooting over two months ago.

Pamplona town Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the slain governor, mourned Cafes passing.

Magkita na mo ni Roel Putok ug sa mga kaubanan nato nga kuyog na sa Ginoo karong mga taknaa. Rest in peace 'Putok.' Si Lord na bahala ninyo ni nong Roel nimo, she said on Facebook.

[Translation: You will see Roel and our other friends who are with God now. Rest in peace, Putok. The Lord will take care of you and Roel now.]
An 18-year-old Rapid City man was arraigned on three felony charges Monday morning for allegedly robbing a man and shooting him in the leg outside a Lacrosse Street strip mall in Rapid City on a March Sunday afternoon.

With his lawyer seated beside him, Cetan Long Solider appeared before Circuit Court Judge Stacy Wickre through video conference from the Pennington County Jail on Monday for his arraignment.

He pleaded not guilty to commission of a felony with a firearm, aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon and second-degree burglary.

The firearm charge is a class 2 felony with a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and up to a $50,000 fine; aggravated assault is a class 3 felony with a maximum of 15 years in prison and up to a $30,000 fine; and second-degree burglary is a class 4 felony with a maximum of 10 years in prison and up to a $20,000 fine.

According to the Rapid City Police Department, a witness said a man  who police later identified as Long Soldier  and two other people approached the 24-year-old victim outside one of the Lacrosse Street businesses. One of them allegedly started to assault him before shooting him in the leg.

Police found the wounded man inside one of the businesses in the strip mall. He was taken to the hospital and treated for serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

The three people who were reportedly there  including the shooter  had run away by the time police arrived.

A day after the shooting, the RCPD put out a photo of the man they suspected, which showed him holding what appeared to be a pistol-grip shotgun.

The RCPD asked for the public's help in finding the man, described as a Native American male in his 20s, around 5' 9'' and 160 pounds wearing a Carhartt jacket and brown pants at the time of the shooting.

Police said in a statement at the time the suspect took off the jacket before running away.

The RCPD arrested Long Soldier on April 7, 19 days later.

When the photo went out, so did the descriptions of the two people  a man and a woman  who were reportedly with Long Soldier.

Brendyn Medina, spokesperson for the RCPD, said police determined through the investigation Long Soldier was the only person with criminal involvement in the incident.

Long Soldier is scheduled to appear in court at 10:45 a.m. on May 22 for a non-evidentiary motions hearing as requested by his attorney, Bryan Andersen.

He is held at the Pennington County Jail on a $10,000 cash only bond set by Magistrate Judge Todd Hyronimus on April 11.
A Minnesota doctor who helps procure mail-order medication abortions for South Dakota women said she plans to continue that practice even if the U.S. Supreme Court outlaws or limits the use of mifepristone, one of the pills used in the process.

Its business as usual, said Dr. Julie Amaon, medical director of Just the Pill.

The Twin Cities telemedicine provider assisted more than 150 South Dakota residents in 2022 and 2023 with online consultations and prescriptions to terminate pregnancies. The organization has provided service to more than 5,000 patients overall since starting as a nonprofit in 2020.

Amaon told News Watch that her neck is sore from the whiplash of legal wranglings that have intensified the abortion debate since the Supreme Courts Dobbs decision in June 2022 to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling, allowing states to determine legality and access of reproductive services.

The new battleground focuses on medication abortion, which currently accounts for 54% of abortions in the United States, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive health organization.

U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, a Texas-based Trump appointee, issued a ruling April 7 that threatened to halt the Food and Drug Administrations authorization of abortion pill mifepristone, first approved in 2000.

Less than a week later, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals paused the mifepristone suspension but upheld Kacsmaryks rollback of more recent FDA policies that made abortion pills easier to obtain by removing the requirement of in-person provider visits.

On April 21, the Supreme Court issued a stay on that 5th Circuit ruling, reverting abortion access to post-Dobbs status while the appeals process continues, with a decision expected sometime in 2024 on the status of mifepristone and how medication abortion is administered.

Amaon, whose group aims to provide abortion access to women who reside in states with strict prohibitions, said Just the Pill will forge ahead no matter what the Supreme Court decides.

That could mean employing a one-pill regimen to terminate pregnancies if mifepristone is outlawed or using a mobile clinic to dispense pills in person to women who cross the border from South Dakota if FDA regulations change.

What bothers me most is that the courts and lawyers are deciding matters of general health care instead of physicians and their patients, she said.

A July 2022 News Watch survey of registered South Dakota voters showed that a majority (57%) of respondents support allowing legal access to abortion medications in the state, including 42% who strongly support such access. Nearly two-thirds (65%) said they support having a statewide referendum to determine South Dakotas laws regarding reproductive rights.

The poll also showed that nearly 8 in 10 respondents (79%) oppose criminal penalties for anyone who helps a South Dakota resident obtain an abortion where it is legal, such as in a neighboring state. An overwhelming majority (71%) also support permitting South Dakota residents to leave the state to obtain abortions.

The random survey was conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy and contacted voters in all South Dakota counties by landline and cellphone. It was co-sponsored by News Watch and the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota. The margin of error was plus or minus 4.5%.

Medication abortion typically involves two pills. The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which the body needs to continue a pregnancy. That process causes the uterine lining to stop thickening and break down, detaching the embryo. The second drug, misoprostol, taken 24 to 48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and dilates the cervix, which expels the embryo.

A misoprostol-only regimen involves taking the drug with the same dosage as typically used, then taking it again three hours later, causing the uterus to contract. This process is repeated for three separate doses, three hours apart, until the pregnancy is terminated, Amaon said.

Because you have to take it more times, the side effects are not fun, she added. You might feel like you have the flu, there are some fever and chills, sometimes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Other than that, its very safe and effective. There are no greater risk factors or complications because youre only taking misoprostol.

There is a slight difference in effectiveness, with 95%-98% of abortions successful with the two-drug regimen compared with 85% with misoprostol only, according to the organizations website. The two-pill regimen is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Besides Minnesota, Just the Pill offers services in Wyoming, Montana and Colorado, which positions them to provide access to residents from eastern and western South Dakota and North Dakota.

Charging $350 per patient, the nonprofit saw about 1,300 patients overall in 2021. It increased to more than 3,000 in 2022, utilizing online pharmacies such as American Mail Order out of Michigan and Honeybee Health in California.

In the first four months of 2023, the organization served 1,135 patients, including 43 from South Dakota, 31 in Minnesota and 12 in Wyoming.

Patients fill out their information online, sign a consent form and then drive over the border to have a telehealth conversation with a clinician to discuss health history, medication protocols and what to expect. The patient then returns home and is notified when to return to Minnesota or Wyoming to pick up their prescription at a post office or FedEx pickup spot.

There is a telehealth follow-up in seven to 14 days to check on the patient and make sure everything went as expected, Amaon said. We also reach out at four to five weeks for a pregnancy test at home, to make sure the process is complete.

The dichotomy of Republican-dominated South Dakota and Democratic-controlled Minnesota as neighboring states during a time of increasing friction over abortion rights is a challenging one for law enforcement.

South Dakota had a trigger law from 2005 that took effect when Roe was overturned, making it a Class 6 felony for anyone who administers to any pregnant female or prescribes or procures for any pregnant female a means for an abortion, except to save the life of the mother. The crime is punishable by two years in prison, a $4,000 fine or both.

Minnesota, meanwhile, passed a law in January to strengthen abortion rights, establishing that every individual has a fundamental right to make autonomous decisions about the individuals own reproductive health.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley told News Watch in early February that his office is monitoring the situation of women crossing the border to obtain abortion pills and that he expects state laws to be followed. Those laws focus on the person providing abortion services, not the woman terminating her pregnancy.

Asked if someone providing telemedicine abortion services to South Dakota residents in a different state could be prosecuted, Jackley said that if you aid and abet or you conspire or you actively participate in a criminal act, our reach can go beyond the states borders.

On May 2, Jackley clarified to News Watch that his office considers it a violation of South Dakota law if abortion medications are mailed to a South Dakota address. That means Just the Pills practice of dispensing pills in the state where they were prescribed would not be deemed illegal under current state law.

Jackley and Gov. Kristi Noem have cited safety concerns with medication abortion. If something goes wrong, such as excess bleeding or infection, there wont be emergency medical care available if a woman is taking the pills at home, they said.

Criminal charges against the person who helped procure the pills could be much more serious than a Class 6 felony if a woman suffers harm from taking the medication to end a pregnancy, Jackley said.

The issue gained prominence earlier this year when the FDA expanded the availability of abortion pills to include mail order and dispensing from brick-and-mortar pharmacies, finalizing a rule that started during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Noem and Jackley responded with a Jan. 24, 2023, letter to South Dakota pharmacists clarifying that pharmacies, including chain drug stores, are prohibited from procuring and dispensing abortion-inducing drugs with the intent to induce an abortion and are subject to felony prosecution under the South Dakota law.

Along with 19 other state attorneys general, Jackley signed a letter to national pharmacies CVS and Walgreens from Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey citing the Comstock Act of 1873, which the letter said prohibits using the mail to send or receive any drug that will be used or applied for producing abortion.

The Supreme Court will likely weigh the relevance of the Comstock Act and the mutability of FDA approvals in the coming year. And Jackley said his office would likely join any letter or amicus that aligns with state law while that process unfolds.

Pharmacies must apply for FDA certification to dispense mifepristone.

Amanda Bacon, executive director of the South Dakota Pharmacists Association, said most retail chains have stated they will only participate in the federal program where it doesnt conflict with state law, which means none of them will be procuring or dispensing the drug in South Dakota.

For South Dakota pharmacies, its pretty clear, Bacon said. Its a felony to dispense the medication for that purpose. But its also a felony to prescribe it for that purpose, so therefore, its just not something were even dealing with at the pharmacy counter.

 This article was produced by South Dakota News Watch, a non-profit journalism organization located online at sdnewswatch.org.
MISSOULA  Jacqueline Towarnicki got a text as she finished her day shift at a local clinic. She had a new case, a patient covered in bruises who couldnt remember how the injuries got there.

Towarnickis breath caught, a familiar feeling after four years of working night shifts as a sexual assault nurse examiner in this northwestern Montana city.

You almost want to curse, Towarnicki, 38, said. Youre like, Oh, no, its happening.

These nights on duty are Towarnickis second job. Shes on call once a week and a weekend a month. A survivor may need protection against sexually transmitted infections, medicine to avoid getting pregnant, or evidence collected to prosecute their attacker. Or all the above.

When her phone rings, its typically in the middle of the night. Towarnicki tiptoes down the stairs of her home to avoid waking her young son, as her half-asleep husband whispers encouragement into the dark.

Her breath is steady by the time she changes into the clothes she laid out close to her back door before going to bed. She grabs her nurses badge and drives to First Step Resource Center, a clinic that offers round-the-clock care for people who have been assaulted.

She wants her patients to know theyre out of danger.

You meet people in some of their most horrifying, darkest, terrifying times, Towarnicki said. Being with them and then seeing who they are when they leave, you dont get that doing any other job in health care.

A former travel nurse who lived out of a van for years, Towarnicki is OK with the uncertainty that comes with being a sexual assault nurse examiner.

Most examiners work on-call shifts in addition to full-time jobs. They often work alone and at odd hours. They can collect evidence that could be used in court, are trained to recognize and respond to trauma, and provide care to protect their patients bodies from lasting effects of sexual assault.

But their numbers are few.

As many as 80% of U.S. hospitals dont have sexual assault nurse examiners, often because they either cant find them or cant afford them. Nurses struggle to find time for shifts, especially when staffing shortages mean covering long hours. Sexual assault survivors may have to leave their town or even their state to see an examiner.

Gaps in sexual assault care can span hundreds of miles in rural areas. A program in Glendive  a town of nearly 5,000 residents 35 miles from the North Dakota border  stopped taking patients for examinations this spring. It didnt have enough nurses to respond to cases.

These are the same nurses working in the ER, where a heart attack patient could come in, said Teresea Olson, 56, who is the towns part-time mayor and also picked up on-call shifts. The staff was exhausted.

The next closest option is 75 miles away in Miles City, adding at least an hour to the travel time for patients, some of whom already had to travel hours to reach Glendive.

Nationwide, policymakers have been slow to offer training, funding, and support for the work. Some states and health facilities are trying to expand access to sexual assault response programs.

Oklahoma lawmakers are considering a bill to hire a statewide sexual assault coordinator tasked with expanding training and recruiting workers. A Montana law that takes effect July 1 will create a sexual assault response network within the Montana Department of Justice. The new program aims to set standards for that care, provide in-state training, and connect examiners statewide. It will also look at telehealth to fill in gaps, following the example of hospitals in South Dakota and Colorado.

Theres no national tally of where nurses have been trained to respond to sexual assaults, meaning a survivor may not know they have to travel for treatment until theyre sitting in an emergency room or police department.

Sarah Wangerin, a nursing instructor with Montana State University and former examiner, said patients reeling from an attack may instead just go home. For some, leaving town isnt an option.

This spring, Wangerin called county hospitals and sheriffs offices to map where sexual assault nurse examiners operate in Montana. She found only 55. More than half of the 45 counties that responded didnt have any examiners. Just seven counties reported they had nurses trained to respond to cases that involve children.

Were failing people, Wangerin said. Were re-traumatizing them by not knowing what to do.

First Step, in Missoula, is one of the few full-time sexual assault response programs in the state. Its operated by Providence St. Patrick Hospital but is separate from the main building.

The clinics walls are adorned with drawings by kids and mountain landscapes. The staff doesnt turn on the harsh overhead fluorescent lights, choosing instead to light the space with softer lamps. The lobby includes couches and a rocking chair. There are always heated blankets and snacks on hand.

First Step stands out for having nurses who stay. Kate Harrison waited roughly a year to join the clinic and is still there three years later, in part because of the staff support.

The specially trained team works together so no one carries too heavy a load. While being on night shift means opening the clinic alone, staffers can debrief tough cases together. They attend group therapy for secondhand trauma.

Harrison is a cardiac hospital nurse during the day, a job that sometimes feels a little too stuck to a clock.

At First Step, she can shift into whatever role her patient needs for as long as they need. Once, that meant sitting for hours on a floor in the lobby of the clinic as a patient cried and talked. Another time, Harrison doubled as a DJ for a nervous patient during an exam, picking music off her cellphone.

Its in the middle of the night, she just had this sexual assault happen, and we were just laughing and singing to Shaggy, Harrison said. You have this freedom and grace to do that.

When the solo work is overwhelming or shes had back-to-back cases and needs a break, she knows a co-worker would be willing to help.

This work can take you to the undercurrents and the underbelly of society sometimes, Harrison said. It takes a team.

That includes co-workers like Towarnicki, who dropped her work hours at her day job after having her son to keep working as a sexual assault nurse examiner. That meant adding three years to her student loan repayment schedule. Now, pregnant with her second child, the work still feels worth it, she said.

On a recent night, Towarnicki was alone in the clinic, clicking through photos she took of her last patient. The patient opted against filing a police report but asked Towarnicki to log all the evidence just in case.

Towarnicki quietly counted out loud the number of bruises, their sizes and locations, as she took notes. She tells patients who have gaps in their memories that she cant speculate how each mark got there or give them all the answers they deserve.

But as she sat in the blue light of her computer screen long after her patient left, it was hard to keep from ruminating.

Totally looks like a hand mark, Towarnicki said, suddenly loud, as she shook her head.

All the evidence and her patients story were sealed and locked away, just feet from a wall of thank-you cards from patients and sticky notes of encouragement among nurses.

On the harder evenings, Towarnicki takes a moment to unwind with a pudding cup from the clinics snacks. Most often, she can let go of her patients story as she closes the clinic. Part of her healing is seeing the light returned to peoples eyes, seeing them be able to breathe deeper, which she said happens 19 out of 20 times.

There is that one out of 20 where I go home and I am spinning, Towarnicki said. In those cases, it takes hearing her sons voice, and time to process, to pull her back. I feel like if its not hard sometimes, maybe you shouldnt be doing this work.

It was a little after 11 p.m. as Towarnicki headed home, an early night. She knew her phone could go off again.

Eight more hours on call.
Richmond business is looking up.

A snapshot of the economic climate over the past year shows a Richmond region that is flourishing, having brought in a number of significant development projects to become one of the states fastest-growing areas for business and residents amid a workforce rebound after the pandemic.

However, each of those positive forces coincides with reports of an increased cost of living and a housing crunch in the Richmond area.

Trends across the past 12 months have shown favorable signs for workers in the area as more and more companies have relocated or expanded in the Richmond area.

The Richmond region ended 2022 on an upswing, with an announcement that the metropolitan statistical area had recovered 100% of the jobs it lost since the start of the pandemic more than two years earlier. The MSA is made up of 17 localities in central Virginia with Richmond at its center.

The Richmond MSA lost 72,000 jobs when businesses shuttered in March 2020 as companies also sent employees to work from home. All of those jobs had returned in the same number by late 2022, albeit, spread differently across local industries.

Manufacturing and supply chain-based employment rebounded strongly with 100% and 110% of the number of jobs, respectively, compared with 2020. Both industries are among the largest economic drivers in the area, which is a key hub for ocean ports, trucking and rail transportation.

Business services and hospitality were two other key industries that posted growth over their pre-pandemic levels, with 5% and 6% more workers, respectively.

That increase in the workforce has continued in the months after that report was issued in December 2022. About 8,000 jobs have been added regionwide since that report, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The overall number of people in the workforce also grew by a similar amount in that time, while the unemployment rate dropped to 3.0% in February 2023, down from a peak of 3.4% the month before.

For those jobs to have increased, people need a place to work. The Greater Richmond Partnership  the lead economic development group for the region  is coming off the busiest 12 months in its 20-year history.

We cant be more excited that people around the world are recognizing our regions affordable cost of doing business, said Jennifer Wakefield, president and CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership. Clearly our region is very hot. We have more companies looking at us with bigger projects than the last 15 years.

The Richmond region was listed among the fastest-growing metro areas in the country two years in a row by Site Selection magazine, an industry publication for economic development. Richmond had 41.5 projects per capita in 2022, the sixth most of any U.S. metropolitan area with a population of more than 1 million . The region ranked third the year before.

Some of the most noteworthy projects over the past year included new buildings and hundreds of new jobs.

Lego Group announced a $1 billion Chesterfield County factory, including 1,761 new jobs; CoStar Group is moving forward with a $460 million, 26-story office space at its downtown campus; Oreo cookie-maker Mondelez International opened a new distribution center in Henrico County along with making a $122.5 million investment in the county; while SanMar is headed to Hanover County in a 1.1 million-square-foot distribution center.

Those are just some of the many relocation and expansion projects announced this past year.

As these companies have decided to move into central Virginia, so have people. The Richmond area has also become the most moved-to place in the commonwealth. Its growth outpaced that of Northern Virginia, even acquiring a great deal of its residents.

The regions growth rate is at least triple that of each of the rest of Virginias five largest metropolitan areas, which are Northern Virginia, Lynchburg, Virginia Beach and Roanoke. The Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service found that the Richmond region grew 2.1%, a gain of 27,640 people, from 2020 to July 2022. The next closest metro areas grew 0.7%, 0.3% and 0.2%.

That report also found that the most growth in the region is happening in the counties, where New Kent, Goochland and Chesterfield grew 8.1%, 5.9% and 4.7%, respectively.

Despite all those positive indicators, one critical component of life has been getting more expensive: housing.

A Market Value Analysis report compiled and released toward the end of 2022 showed that large swaths of the region have become unaffordable to people making the median area income of about $51,000. That report was completed by the Richmond Memorial Health Foundation, PlanRVA and the Philadelphia-based Reinvestment Fund.

The regions median home sales price rose to $291,722 in 2021, according to the report, an increase of almost $79,000 in four years.

Lower-income communities were reported to have sale prices from $103,000 to $130,000. That number, organizers said, was higher than average home sale prices in similar neighborhoods in other U.S. cities, which ranged from $53,000 to $63,000.

The Richmond region middle class was also at risk of being priced out of homes with extraordinary rises in sale price in neighborhoods such as Scotts Addition, Church Hill and North Side.

The city of Richmond recently declared a housing crisis and announced a plan to spend $10 million annually over the next five years to create 1,000 affordable housing units and 2,000 homeownership opportunities for low-income residents by 2030.

While the cost of housing in the Richmond area continues to rise, it is still more affordable than many other places in the U.S. with a median sales price of $350,000 compared with $437,000 nationally.

Leaders across all of these fields are expecting the current trends to continue, with several projects in planning pipelines across the growing region and continued stress on housing costs.

Richmond-area business expansions, openings and closings 88 Street Food Urban Myth Street Food Revel Market & Bar Rams House Bar + Kitchen Stanley's 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 detectives have located the body of a man who was reported missing from Prince George County in late April.

Cameron Cole, 23, was found Monday in a wooded area in the 2100 block of Commerce Road in South Richmond, according to a statement from the Richmond Police Department. Cole was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives are investigating Coles death as a homicide connected to another killing earlier this month. Police were called to the 1100 block of Richmond Highway at around 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday after reports that a person had been shot. When they arrived, they found Ckristofer Tyler, 32, of Chesterfield County inside an SUV that had crashed into a cement truck.

Tyler, who had suffered a gunshot wound, was pronounced dead at the scene. Richmond detectives were then notified that a vehicle connected to Tylers killing had been stopped after a chase that started in Hopewell and ended in Prince George.

Two of the suspects, Isabelle Battle and Demond Williams, were quickly detained by Hopewell Sheriffs Office officials, while a third, Xavier Brown, fled on foot and was apprehended with help from the Virginia State Police, the Prince George Sheriffs Office and the U.S. Marshals Regional Fugitive Task Force.

The arrests of Battle, Williams and Brown led to detectives discovering the site where Cole was found.

All three suspects had already been charged with crimes related to Tylers death: Battle, 19, with grand larceny; and Brown, 22, and Williams, 39, with conspiracy to commit murder. Richmond police say additional charges in Coles death are pending.

Anyone with additional information about either incident is asked to call Detective Sullivan at (804) 646-3929 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at (804) 780-1000.

Photos: A list of high-profile mass shootings in the US this year Monterey Park, California Half Moon Bay, California Nashville, Tennessee Louisville, Kentucky Dadeville, Alabama Bowdoin, Maine Cleveland, Texas Allen, Texas
Police in Richmond and York County are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a Richmond woman whose body was found in Yorktown on Saturday morning.

York-Poquoson Sheriff Ron Montgomery said in a video statement Saturday afternoon that a jogger had discovered the body of a woman at around 6:30 a.m. on Old Williamsburg Road in Yorktown, near the Riverwalk Townes housing development.

The woman, later identified as Tyosha Tanique Mitchell, 25, of Richmond had suffered a gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police believe she was forcibly taken from the Whitcomb Court area in Richmond early Saturday.

On Monday afternoon, the York-Poquoson Sheriffs Office released new information, identifying a suspect vehicle as a dark-colored Hyundai Sonata from model years 2012 through 2016.

York-Poquoson investigators were in Richmond over the weekend, working with city police to notify Mitchells next of kin and interview potential witnesses. RPD spokesman James Mercante confirmed that the Sheriffs Office is leading the investigation, with Richmond police assisting.

Anyone with additional information, especially those who were in the 2700 block of Bethel Street in Richmond or on Old Williamsburg Road in Yorktown on Saturday morning and may have access to home security camera footage, is asked to contact the Sheriffs Office tipline at (757) 890-4999.

Today in history: May 8 1945: Harry S. Truman 1996: South Africa 1972: Richard Nixon 1973: Wounded Knee 1984: Summer Olympic Games 2003: NATO 2012: Maurice Sendak 2012: Sen. Richard Lugar
Before he got down to ceremonially signing a bill that adds a definition of antisemitism to the Code of Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin bent close to hear the message Holocaust survivor Halina Zimm wanted to share:

Hate is wrong, love is right, he repeated, more loudly than her soft voice could, so all of the several dozen people at the Executive Mansion ceremony on Monday afternoon could hear.

When she was a child, Zimms parents were sent to what they hoped was safety in Warsaw, shortly before the Nazis arrived in her Polish hometown. She witnessed the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, hearing the weeping and cries as the Nazis dynamited buildings where Jews had hidden; she was sheltered by a couple who lived across the street from the ghetto, and managed to survive despite being denounced to police and accused of being Jewish.

I cant imagine what she went through, said Youngkin, who actually signed the measure, sponsored by Del. Anne Ferrell Tata, R-Virginia Beach, in March.

The bill comes from an initiative Youngkin launched on his first day as governor  setting up the nations first state commission to combat antisemitism.

It was an initiative he feels strongly about.

First, Ive had a lot of wonderful Jewish friends over the years, he told the Richmond Times-Dispatch after the ceremony, in a pause between photos with students of Rudlin Torah Academy, legislators and excited members of the Jewish community.

Second, our nation is founded on Judeo-Christian principles. And this was a promise I made during the campaign, he said.

The bill writes into the Code of Virginia the Working Definition of Antisemitism adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, which says Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.

That definition has generated some criticism because examples of antisemitic expression the alliance uses include some criticisms of the State of Israel.

But Youngkin said he does not understand why any legislator would oppose the measure  25 members of the House of Delegates voted against it while eight state senators did not vote.

Youngkin said the bill would make it easier for police to address hate crimes and would help educate Virginians about a form of hatred that is on the rise.

We acknowledged that were in a world where there is hate, in a world where hate has been translated into despicable actions, but we can stand up together and say there is no room for hate in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Youngkin said.

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After signing the bill, he addressed reporters questions about comments that the states chief diversity, inclusion and equity officer, Martin Brown, made that DEI is dead. Youngkin said Browns comments reflect recent trends, wherein a moment he feels is important has gone off the rails. He cited what he called a focus on equal outcomes at any cost, and said the point should be to encourage diversity and inclusion.

He also said he still believes Virginians will support his proposal to scale back the states current abortion law so that it permits abortions only through 15 weeks, instead of through the second trimester and later if doctors say it is necessary. Youngkin backs exceptions in cases of rape, incest or when the womans life is in jeopardy.

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(Image: Bloomberg)

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has announced the commercial launch of the cross-border QR payment linkage between Malaysia and Indonesia, following a successful pilot that took place since early 2022. With this, Malaysians and Indonesians will be able to conveniently make instant retail payments via QR codes at more avenues and merchants when visiting each others country.

The commercial launch of this linkage sees the number of participating financial institutions, which include non-banks, increase. This will enable more Indonesians and Malaysians to make instant retail payments in either country by scanning Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) or DuitNow QR codes at physical stores or online merchants using services offered by participating financial institutions, said BNM in a joint statement.

For context, the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) is Indonesias equivalent of our DuitNow QR  a national standard QR code that allows merchants to accept payments from customers regardless of which bank or payment system providers they use.

Meanwhile, local financial institutions that have thus far enabled cross-border QR payments in Indonesia include Hong Leong Bank, Public Bank, Maybank, as well as Touch n Go (TNG) eWallet. Similarly, participating financial institutions from Indonesia that have done so as well include Bank Sinarmas, Bank Permata, LinkAja, and Ottocash. You can find the full list here.

Many more users from Malaysia and Indonesia will benefit from a secure, more seamless and more efficient experience to make and receive cross-border payments. This in turn has significant potential to boost economic activities, including tourism spending in our two countries. The payment linkage will also help expand markets for some businesses and facilitate increased settlements in local currency, thereby improving financial outcomes, said the governor of BNM, Tan Sri Nor Shamsiah Mohd Yunus.

Tan Sri Nor Shamsiah also commented that this linkage will contribute to the ASEAN regions development as a centre of growth, alongside other bilateral payment linkages within ASEAN that are currently being established.

(Image: Reuters/Ajeng Dinar Ulfiana)

Meanwhile, the governor of Bank Indonesia (BI), Perry Warjiyo stressed that the commercial launch of the Indonesia-Malaysia cross-border QR payment linkage will especially benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs and MSMEs). This is especially through the promotion of faster, cheaper, more transparent, and more inclusive cross-border payments.

The QR payment linkage will strengthen the close economic ties between Indonesia and Malaysia. It would support a more inclusive and stronger post-pandemic economic recovery. As international travel gathers momentum, the payment linkage is expected to not only provide travellers with greater convenience, but also benefit the tourism and retail sector of both economies, said Warjiyo.

BNM and BI first announced the pilot phase of the Indonesia-Malaysia cross-border QR payment linkage back in January 2022. At that time, the commercial launch was scheduled for the third quarter of 2022, with subsequent plans to expand the linkage to support cross-border remittances as well.

(Source: BNM)

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 7)  The list of the Marcos administrations priority measures has grown to 42 with the inclusion of 11 new bills, including the proposed creation of the Maharlika investment fund (MIF).

House Speaker Martin Romualdez shared the bills added to the priorities of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) ahead of the resumption of session in Congress Monday.

President Marcos approved eleven bills designed to address key issues on public health, job creation, and further stimulate economic growth as part of his administrations priority legislation. These measures will be the focus of our legislative efforts when Congress resumes session on Monday, Romualdez said Sunday.

The proposed creation of the MIF was approved by the House in December last year. It has yet to reach the Senate plenary.

Aside from the MIF bill, the 10 new priority measures approved by Marcos are the following:

 amendments to the law on Armed Forces officers fixed term;

 the bill on ease of paying taxes;

 the bill on local government units income classification;

 amendments to the Universal Health Care Law;

 Bureau of Immigration modernization bill;

 bill on the Infrastructure Development Plan/Build Build Build program;

 Philippine Salt Industry Development Act;

 Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System;

 the National Employment Action Plan; and

 amendments to the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act.

The House and Senate have 12 session days to act on pending bills before adjourning anew on June 2. The first four measures on the list have already been approved by the House, while the rest are pending at the committee level in the lower chamber.

With the first regular session of the 19th Congress in its homestretch, Romualdez said the House will also do its best to approve the eight remaining bills on the initial list of the LEDACs legislative priorities.

It will be on a best-effort basis. We will try to pass the remaining eight bills from the original priority list. If we could do that, we would have approved all the urgent measures identified by President Marcos in less than a year, Romualdez said.

The eight priority bills that Marcos mentioned in his first State of the Nation Address that have yet to be approved by the House are the following:

 the bill establishing regional specialty hospitals;

 the bill enabling the natural gas industry;

 the National Land Use Act;

 creation of the Department of Water Resources and Services and creation of Water Regulatory Commission;

 Budget Modernization Act;

 National Defense Act;

 Electric Power Industry Reform Act; and

 the bill unifying the system of separation, retirement, and pension for uniformed personnel.
Over 300 kilos of methamphetamine found inside private Baja California house

Playas de Rosarito, Baja California  The Ministry of National Defense says more than 300 kilos of methamphetamine was found inside a private home in the state of Baja California.

The finding was made Saturday by the Mexican Army and the Attorney General of the Republic (FGR) due to an ongoing investigation.

In a statement the agency said as a result of the intelligence and inter-institutional coordination work, military personnel learned that a property located in the municipality of Playas de Rosarito in Baja California was being used to carry out illegal activities.

On the private property authorities found and seized approximately 341 kilos of methamphetamine along with three vehicles and the property itself. Their statement did not mention any arrests.
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" " NASA and Nokia are sending 4G to the moon! HowStuffWorks

In a bygone era, "4G on the moon" might have referenced the G-force astronauts aboard an imaginary ship of the future might experience. But 4G today is in reference to a communications network, like those that connect our cell phones and other devices. And this 4G network is going to be located on the lunar surface.

No. This doesn't mean we'll soon see cell towers on the moon. Instead this 4G is part of NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate, which awarded several companies contracts worth $370 million to help the space agency install new technology on the moon. Nokia Bell Laboratories got $14.1 million of that for the first 4G communications system in space.

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Nokia will work with Intuitive Machines to integrate the network into its Nova-C Lunar Lander, which will deliver the 4G system to the moon. Once there, it will "self-configure."

The main purpose of the 4G network will be to support future astronauts in NASA's Project Artemis, which is scheduled to land astronauts near the lunar south pole as early as October 2024. The 4G network will likely provide improved communications between future moon-based astronauts and those orbiting the moon with all of us on Earth. Astronauts will also be able to transmit science data more rapidly than would be possible without the network.

The network also will make other critical communications capabilities a bit easier, including remote control of lunar rovers, real-time navigation and streaming of high definition video. But the astronauts will also be able to phone home, and upload selfies and videos to Instagram, too.

So why 4G and not 5G? According to Nokia, 4G is better suited for the surface of the moon because it's more reliable, but it will eventually be upgraded.

"Reliable, resilient and high-capacity communications networks will be key to supporting sustainable human presence on the lunar surface," Marcus Weldon, chief technology officer and president at Nokia Bell Labs, said in a press statement. "By building the first high performance wireless network solution on the moon, Nokia Bell Labs is once again planting the flag for pioneering innovation beyond the conventional limits."

Now That's Cool To protect against the health effects of space radiation from the long Artemis mission on the lunar surface, astronauts will live in caves and lava tubes, or at least in prefabricated modules covered with thick layers of lunar surface material called regolith.
Composite numbers are the opposite of prime numbers. They can be divided by other numbers besides 1 and themselves.

Mark Zegarelli, author of numerous books on math in the popular "For Dummies" series who also teaches test prep courses, offers an illustration involving coins that he uses with some of his students to explain the difference between prime numbers and composite numbers.

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"Think about the number 6," says Zegarelli, citing a composite number. "Imagine that you have six coins. You could form them into a rectangle, with two rows of three coins. You can do that with eight, too, by putting four coins into two rows. With the number 12, you could make it into more than one type of rectangle  you could have two rows of six coins, or three times four."

"But if you take the number 5, no matter how you try, you can't put it into a rectangle," Zegarelli notes. "The best you can do it is string it into a line, a single row of five coins. So, you could call 5 a non-rectangular number. But the easier way to say that is to call it a prime number."

There are plenty of other prime numbers  2, 3, 7 and 11 also are on the list, and it keeps rolling from there. The Greek mathematician Euclid, back in circa 300 B.C.E., devised a Proof of the Infinitude of Primes, which may have been the first mathematical proof showing that there is an infinite number of prime numbers. (In ancient Greece, where the modern concept of infinity wasn't quite understood, Euclid described the quantity of prime numbers simply as "more than any assigned multitude of prime numbers.")

Another way of understanding prime numbers and composites is to think of them as the product of factors, Zegarelli says. "2 times 3 equals 6, so 2 and 3 are factors of 6. So, there are two ways to make six  1 times 6, and 2 times 3. I like to think of them as factor pairs. So, with a composite number, you have multiple factor pairs, while with a prime number, you have only one factor pair, one times the number itself."

Proving that the list of prime numbers is infinite isn't that tough, Zegarelli says. "Imagine that there is a last, biggest prime number. We're going to call it P. So then I'll take all the prime numbers up to P and multiply them all together. If I do that and add one to the product, that number has to be a prime."

If a number is a composite number, in contrast, it's always divisible by some quantity of lower prime numbers. "A composite could be divisible by other composites as well, but eventually, you can decompose it down to a set of prime numbers." (An example: the number 48 has exactly two factors, 6 and 8, but you can break it down further into more than only two factors: 2 times 3 times 2 times 2 times 2.)
" " Scientists believe that megamasers occur when galaxies collide, producing new stars and feeding massive black holes. NASA Goddard

If there's one thing we know for sure about our universe, it's that we actually know relatively little about it. Every year, astronomers discover new objects and phenomena; sometimes these are quite close to Earth, such as a surprising asteroid that goes whizzing by, and other times they are as distant as anything we've ever observed in our few centuries of peering starward.

In April 2022, astronomers made headlines for detecting a phenomenon that occurred roughly 5 billion years ago and traveled some 36 thousand billion billion miles (58 thousand billion billion kilometers) to reach the telescopes that measured it, according to a statement by the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), based in Perth, Australia.

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The record-breaking object observed by the MeerKAT telescope in South Africa was named "Nkalakatha" (pronounced ng-kuh-la-kuh-tah)  an isiZulu word meaning big boss. Best of all, the official name for these phenomena is really cool as well: megamaser.

No, it's not a super villain; though it certainly sounds like one. Instead, megamasers are a fascinating fact of life in the universe.
Beth King has had a long and diverse nursing career. After graduating from Florence-Darlington Technical College in 2003, she joined the McLeod Regional Medical Center team as a nurse in the Cardiac Unit. She transferred to McLeod Health Dillon in 2005 to work in the Intensive Care Unit. She remained in Dillon until 2013, when she left briefly to care for Hospice patients, but returned to Dillon the following year to work in the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit. She shifted to Case Management work in the McLeod Health Dillon Emergency Department in 2021. This May marks 20 years she has worked with McLeod Health.

Beth chose to become a nurse because she has always had patience for the sick and felt that it was her calling from God. My eldest brother is mentally and physically handicapped, and I have helped care for him since I was old enough to do so. He has been my greatest inspiration as a nurse, yet I have thousands of patients and co-workers combined who have continually inspired me throughout my career. Her work accolades include a McLeod Merit Award, the Palmetto Gold Award, McLeod Dillon Nurse of the Year for four years, and she was also voted Dillon County Nurse of the Year in The Dillon Herald.

Nursing is rewarding for so many reasons, Beth declares. Nurses not only help sick people get better, but we also have the privilege of comforting patients and their families during some of the darkest days of their lives. We can also align them with the resources they need to live a more fulfilled life.

I find my purpose in nursing through my faith in God, Beth adds. My purpose each day is to be a light to the world and a positive influence on those in my path. Being a nurse is truly an honor, and serving as an encourager and positive resource to those in their greatest time of need is still very humbling after 20 years.
FLORENCE, S.C.  2023 Francis Marion University graduate Annalena Griffin has always dreamed of becoming a veterinarian  specifically, an exotic animal specialist. The Taylors native currently cares for more than 10 rescued snakes at her home.

Im very into exotics and wildlife medicine, Griffin says. Reptiles and amphibians have a special place in my heart, and I rescue them in my free time. I want to specialize in exotic medicine, and possibly work for a zoo doing wildlife rehab work.

Her passion for animals comes from her childhood, when she was constantly outdoors studying her natural surroundings.

Ive always known that veterinary medicine was going to be my calling, Griffin says. Ive known that since I was a little kid. Several experiences I had growing up influenced me. I worked at a zoo, an animal hospital, and volunteered for different animal and wildlife organizations.

When Griffin came to FMU, the decision to major in biology was a no-brainer. Her years at FMU further fueled the dream of becoming an exotic animal veterinarian. She credits many professors with making her educational experience highly enjoyable and valuable.

I am especially grateful for Dr. Steinmetz, Dr. Zwiers, Dr. Camper, Dr. Harness, Dr. Barbeau and Dr. Aguila, Griffin says. My core group of professors helped me out in a lot of ways. They helped with my honors thesis, applying to vet school, and helped prepare me for my future career. I also loved their classes and learned a lot from them.

In addition to meaningful relationships with faculty, Griffin also gained immeasurable experience from her Maymester study abroad trip to the Wildsumaco Biological Station in Ecuador. The trip had profound, lasting effects on her both personally and academically.

The trip was amazing! Griffin says. It was incredible to be able to apply what we were learning in the classroom to what we were seeing right outside our window at the biological station. It was the most amazing experience ever. We also got to meet other classes from other universities that were there and have really interesting discussions with them.

On top of being an Honors student graduating cum laude, Griffin spent her time as a student involved on campus in as many ways as she could. Griffin was a member of the Patriot track and field and cross country teams, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, TriBeta Biological Honor Society, Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athlete Honor Society, and Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and served as vice president of the FMU Pre-Vet Club.

Griffin graduated from FMU on Saturday with a bachelor of science in biology and a minor in chemistry. The next stop on Griffins road to becoming an exotic animal vet is Veterinarian School at the University of Georgia where she will pursue the four-year veterinary degree program. After completing vet school, she hopes to work for a zoo doing wildlife rehab work.
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 "Evidence Rules for Decarceration" | Main | Big spread in sentencing recommendations for Oath Keepers founder convicted of seditious conspiracy 

May 8, 2023

Should every state have a dedicated commission to receive complaints about prosecutors?

The question in the title of this post was my first reaction to the news of a commission just created in Georgia. This AP piece, headlined "Georgia enacts law letting panel punish, oust prosecutors," provides these details:

Gov. Brian Kemp signed a bill into law Friday creating a new commission empowered to discipline and remove wayward prosecutors, saying it will curb far-left prosecutors who are making our communities less safe. Kemp made the remarks at the Chatham County Sheriff's Office in Savannah, where he signed the measure establishing the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission, which will launch July 1 and start accepting complaints Oct. 1.... The efforts continue anti-crime campaigns that Republicans ran nationwide last year, accusing Democrats of coddling criminals and improperly refusing to prosecute whole categories of crimes, including marijuana possession. Georgia Democrats strenuously opposed the measure, saying the Republican legislative majority was seeking another way to impose its will on Democratic voters at the local level.... Crucially, the Georgia law mandates that a prosecutor must consider every case for which probable cause exists and cant exclude categories of cases from prosecution. Experts have said that considering every case individually is unrealistic, because prosecutors turn down many more cases than they charge. However, its unclear if the new law will change prosecutors behavior or just lead them to avoid talking publicly about charging decisions. The eight-member commission will include six current or former prosecutors and two other lawyers. It will oversee DAs and solicitors general  elected prosecutors who handle lower-level crimes in some counties.... The law was born from frustrations involving a white Republican prosecutor in suburban Atlanta who was indicted for bribery related to sexual harassment claims. He lingered in office until he pleaded guilty to unprofessional conduct and resigned in 2022. Some Democrats were interested in similar measures for a time because of Jackie Johnson, a coastal Georgia DA who was charged with hindering the police investigation into the 2020 killing of Ahmaud Arbery. Democratic interest cooled after voters ousted Johnson. The rules could also target prosecutors who declared before Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022 that they wouldn't prosecute abortion-related offenses. Seven current Georgia DAs fit that description.

Though the AP piece leans into the political dynamics driving some debates over prosecutorial behaviors, this official press release from Gov Kemp notes that the new Georgia Commission can and will be policing local prosecutors on various fronts:

Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp, members of the General Assembly, district attorneys and solicitors-general, and other local and state leaders, signed Senate Bill 92 today, establishing the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission (PAQC). The PAQC will serve as a valuable oversight mechanism for district attorneys and solicitors-general across Georgia, ensuring these officials fulfill their constitutional and statutory duties.... The bill establishes the following grounds for the removal or involuntary retirement of a district attorney or solicitor-general from office: Mental or physical incapacity that interferes with the performance of duties that is likely permanent;

Willful misconduct in office;

Willful and persistent failure to carry out statutory duties;

Conviction of a crime involving moral turpitude;

Conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice which brings the office into disrepute; or

Knowingly authorizing or permitting an assistant district attorney or assistant solicitor-general to commit any of the aforementioned acts.

To parrot this press release, I sincerely think it would be a great idea to have a "valuable oversight mechanism for district attorneys" in every state (and for federal prosecutors, too). I have often heard from persons who sincerely believe they have witnessed a prosecutor engage in "willful misconduct" or "conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice which brings the office into disrepute"; so creating a central commission (comprised mostly of former and current prosecutors) to hear complaints about, and conduct any needed investigations of, the work of prosecutors makes a lot of sense to me. Of course, like many government entitles, if unduly politicized or problematically ideological, this commission could possibly do more harm than good. But, given the general lack of transparency and accountability for prosecutorial actions and practices, I am inclined to be hopeful about this new PAQC.

May 8, 2023 at 02:25 PM | Permalink

Comments

Despite the politics underlying this new Georgia law, it has long been noted that criminal prosecutors are the most unchecked part of our Government, so this new law potentially addresses that problem.

Posted by: Jim Gormley | May 8, 2023 2:49:56 PM

oh that this too too solid act would resolve itself 'gainst the stale, flat, egregious impostures of federal prosecutors.

Posted by: Brenda Rossini | May 8, 2023 4:39:55 PM

Actually, I believe judges are the least checked actors in our government. They gladly and easily give themselves breaks that would not be afforded anyone else.

Posted by: Soronel Haetir | May 8, 2023 5:49:51 PM

a panel to discipline wayward prosecutors is great idea. The panel should investigate prosecutors who overcharge, who dissemble, who hide Brady material, and who intimidate witnesses.

Posted by: anon | May 9, 2023 9:27:00 AM

This is one in which the devil is in the details and in the practice. If this were actually used against offices that engage in misconduct in the cases in which they do file, that would be one thing. My hunch is that we are unlikely to see this type of commission move quickly against prosecutors with a history of Brady violations.

But the concept of locally-elected prosecutors is that they get to choose priorities that reflect the local community. This bill seems to be directed at prosecutors who decline to prosecute certain types of cases (marijuana, abortion) because that is what their voters want. And it seems likely that this type of authority will quickly devolve into partisan disagreements.

And, it is unlikely to succeed at the goals of getting successful prosecution of those types of cases. One of the considerations that lead to a decision not to prosecute certain types of cases is the experience that juries will not conviction on those charges. Defense attorneys know that the juries will nullify so they will not plead to these (often) lower-level offenses meaning that the prosecutor who folds to this pressure will be spending a lot of time in jury trials in which there is little or no chance of conviction on a relatively minor offense and will not have the time or resources to take a hard line on more violent offenses.



Posted by: tmm | May 9, 2023 11:31:24 AM

This panel was created to monitor and remove progressive prosecutors in Georgia, specifically in Athens-Clarke County. The GOP claims it's the party of less government yet it is creating a commission that meddles in local affairs. This commission could lead to negative consequences if it deems a prosecutor isn't doing their job in not prosecuting certain offenses. This will lead to higher caseloads and even more trials as previously stated on this page. A person accused of a low level offense (ex. misdemeanor) will go to trial if they know jury panels don't usually convict folks of certain offenses.

Posted by: Anon | May 10, 2023 12:36:37 AM

If the local prosecutor in some rural Georgia town were declining to enforce civil rights law on gun regulation, the comments here would have an entirely different slant. But they shouldn't. If we're actually going to have the rule of law rather than the rule of taste, laws should be roughly equally enforced throughout any given jurisdiction, whether the laws are gun laws or drug laws.

Posted by: Bill Otis | May 10, 2023 5:08:49 PM

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The aftermath of the blaze at Block 147 Tampines Ave 5. (PHOTO: FB/SCDF)

SINGAPORE  A fire broke out at a second-storey HDB flat at Block 147 Tampines Avenue 5 on Monday morning (8 May).

According to the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the preliminary investigation indicated that the fire was of electrical origin, and involved a portable air-conditioning unit inside the bedroom of the affected flat.

In a Facebook post on Monday, SCDF said it was alerted to the fire at 8.10am. Around 60 residents were evacuated and one person was taken to the Singapore General Hospital for smoke inhalation.

Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze using a water jet and two compressed air foam backpacks, SCDF said.

It also expressed their appreciation for the quick response of the public to the emergency at the Tampines Housing Board block.

"We understand that prior to SCDF's arrival, members of the public had attempted to fight the fire using a hose reel. SCDF will be reaching out to commend them for their swift action in responding to the emergency," added SCDF.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 7)  The Immigration bureau has released an advisory for airports to keep a watchful eye on outgoing Filipinos to make sure they do not fall victim to online job scams abroad.

We strengthen our border control at the same time we have to educate as well our mga kababayans tulad ng pag-i-inform sa kanila na for them to work [abroad], dapat ay dumaan sila sa tamang proseso sa POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration), BI deputy spokesperson Melvin Mabulac said Sunday.

[Translation: We strengthen our border control at the same time we have to educate as well our fellow countrymen, like informing them that in order for them to work abroad, they need to go through the right process through the POEA.]

Under the advisory, airport officials are tasked to check outgoing Filipinos if they have a round-trip ticket and a passport valid for six months.

Mabulac also said work applicants should also be reminded not to accept work offered in social media as it is unmonitored by the POEA.

Jhomar Malabanan has been an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) living in South Korea for six years.

He told CNN Philippines that throughout his stay in South Korea, he has been offered numerous investment schemes where he is asked to shell out a large amount of money with a promise of even bigger returns.

Malabanan added that the deals are too good to be true. But still, he said many OFWs give in to these types of exploitation.

Medyo naiintindihan po natin dahil sa hirap ng buhay dito sa abroad, gusto nila kumita agad ng malaki without knowing na ang pinapasok nila ay scam, Malabanan.

[Translate: I understand that because of the difficulty of life here abroad, they want to earn a lot immediately without knowing that they are joining a scam.]

In Pampanga on Friday, authorities rescued more than 1,000 people from several Asian countries who were allegedly trafficked into the country, held captive, and forced to work in online scams, an official said Saturday.

At least a dozen suspects supposed to be behind an investment scam underwent inquest proceedings on Saturday. They are facing human trafficking charges.
Terry Xu, editor of The Online Citizen Asia, and his website were issued correction directions on 7 May under Pofma for publishing false allegations against the police related to an incident where an elderly woman was seen without a mask in 2021. (PHOTO: FBScreengrab/SPF)

SINGAPORE  The Online Citizen Asia and its editor Terry Xu were on Sunday (7 May) issued correction directions under Singapore's Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) for publishing false allegations against the police.

The false allegations were related to an incident two years ago when an elderly woman was seen not wearing a mask, which was previously published by The Online Citizen (TOC), a now-defunct site that Xu was also the editor of.

TOC was issued a Corrections Direction over their publications on the issue, which it appealed. TOC's appeal was dismissed by the High Court in 2021.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Sunday, the ministry said that despite the government's clarifications and the High Court's "clear findings" on the matter, Xu and The Online Citizen Asia "persisted in making false allegations about the case".

The correction directions were issued for a Facebook post made by Xu on 30 April this year, as well as an article published on The Online Citizen Asia on 2 May.

The ministry also issued a correction direction to The Online Citizen Asia's social media posts on 2 May that referenced the article.

Xu published an opinion piece on 2 May, alleging that the police had distorted facts regarding the incident involving the elderly lady and had withheld crucial evidence. He made similar allegations in a 30 April Facebook post, claiming that the police did not provide any assistance to the elderly lady but approached her because she was not wearing a face mask.

In its statement on Sunday, MHA said, "These allegations are wholly unfounded. They may affect public trust and confidence in the Singapore Police Force."

The ministry strongly condemned Xu's actions, stating, "Xu's attempts to rehash issues already considered by the Court, and exploit a case involving an elderly and vulnerable woman, are contemptible."

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MHA also pointed out that the article in question was "one of 60 written by Mr Xu to raise funds to pay for fines imposed upon him by the courts for various offences, including contempt of court and POFMA violations", and emphasised that the government took a serious view of the "deliberate communication of malicious falsehoods".

The Online Citizen Asia and Xu are required to carry a correction notice alongside their publications. A check by Yahoo Southeast Asia on 8 May showed that the site had carried the notice.

Police address the allegations

The police also released a statement on Sunday addressing the allegations made by Xu, stating that they were "wholly unfounded."

According to the police, they received a call from a concerned member of the public about an elderly woman who appeared lost and was not wearing a mask.

When they located the woman, she claimed to know where she lived but could not provide her address. The police say they believed the woman was lost and were there to help her.

They attempted to contact her next-of-kin to escort her home safely and advised her to wear a mask per COVID-19 regulations.

"Her address was only later established with the help of a member of the public, who recognised the elderly woman and recalled that she lived in a nearby block. The High Court has in fact found that the Police officers believed that the elderly woman was lost," the statement added.

Regarding Xu's claims, the police denied that their primary reason for approaching the woman was due to her not wearing a mask and stated that they were solely focused on helping her find her way home.

They also refuted Xu's allegation that they misrepresented and lied to the woman's next of kin, leading to a police report being filed against them.

Instead, the next-of-kin filed a report against TOC for spreading falsehoods and interviewing the woman without the family's permission, said the police.

The police further stated that "police resources are better used to deter and solve crimes, and to assist members of the public, especially vulnerable members like the elderly woman, rather than to address such baseless allegations over and over again."

Details of the 2021 incident

In May 2021, TOC shared an Instagram story from a user claiming that the police had mistreated an elderly woman who was not wearing a face mask. The website republished the post on 18 May 2021, on its social media platforms.

The police issued two clarification statements regarding the incident on 19 May and 25 May 2021 denying the allegations of mistreatment and stating that officers had attended to the woman to help her find her way home, not to reprimand her for not wearing a mask.

The woman, who was 85 years old at that time and believed to have dementia, appeared lost when she was seen without a mask. Officers provided her with food and eventually handed her to her domestic worker.

On 21 May 2021, TOC was issued a correction direction under POFMA for publishing false information. The High Court dismissed The Online Citizen's appeal to set aside the correction direction on 25 July 2022.

The High Court found that TOC had published a false statement as a fact and that the police officer had expressed concern for the elderly lady with the aim of helping her.

The Court also noted that the original publisher could not, in good faith, have concluded that there was reprimanding or taunting by the police.

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Who doesnt love small, cute foods? How much more so if theyre shaped like a cuppa bubble tea?! Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Tea has recently launched these absolutely adorable Yi Fang Egg Pancakes at Canberra Plaza.

In the form of miniature bubble tea cups and embossed with Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Teas logo, these pancakes are extremely detailed. BBT lovers will recognise the signature jumbo bubble tea straws at a glance.

Made to order, these filled pancakes are very similar to home-grown Mr Bean Pancakes. The delicious fillings are encased in a light, fluffy pancake batter and cooked to perfection with a crisp exterior, and soft fluffy interior.

Currently, these adorable treats made with fresh milk and eggs are available exclusively at the Canberra Plaza outlet . You can choose between two flavours  the Signature Egg Pancake (S$1.30) and Taro Flavour Egg Pancake (S$1.50). If you are a fan of ornee, you will love the taro pancake, which is packed with a smooth, indulgent yam paste.

While youre at it, dont forget to check out Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Teas other offerings, and the star of the show  their fruit tea! YiFang Fruit Tea retails at S$5.50 for the regular and S$6.50 for the large size. They sell over 100 million cups in 50 cities worldwide.

This signature drink of theirs is a medley of pineapple and passion fruit jam, apple and orange slices, and baozhong tea. It is sure to hit the spot, especially with the recent heat and humidity in sunny Singapore.

Those with a sweet tooth, this ones for you  their Brown Sugar Pearl Latte, retailing at S$5.30 for the regular, and S$6.30 for the upsize. Using only Meiji fresh milk and demerara cane sugar, the drink is not afraid to pile on the pearls and calories.

Whether youre eager to try these adorable bubble-tea shaped pancakes at Canberra Plaza (I know I am!), or simply love bubble tea, head down to Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Tea before theyre all gone!

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ORANGE CITY, Iowa  A Rock Valley man who sexually assaulted an intoxicated woman was sentenced Monday to 25 years in prison.

Joe Lee Kats, 45, pleaded guilty in Sioux County District Court in March to first-degree burglary with the intent to commit sexual abuse and third-degree sexual abuse as a habitual offender, an enhancement that increased the prison sentence for the charge to 15 years.

In addition to the prison sentence, District Judge Steven Andreasen ordered Kats to register with the Iowa Sex Offender Registry for the rest of his life and serve a lifetime special sex offender sentence after he completes his prison sentence. If he were to violate terms of the special sentence, he could be sent back to prison.

According to the Sioux County Attorney's Office, Kats was operating a bus to drive bar patrons home on Jan. 1, 2022. After dropping off the victim, Kats entered her home without her permission, had sex with her while she was incapacitated, then left. When the woman woke up, she realized she had been sexually assaulted and notified police.

Kats was arrested in May 2022, and his charges were enhanced because of his previous convictions for sexual abuse in 2005 and lascivious acts with a child in 1997.
DENISON, Iowa  A Sioux City man has pleaded not guilty of stalking a Denison woman and shocking her with a stun gun.

Chance Michaels, 49, entered his written plea Friday in Crawford County District Court to charges of second-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary, going armed with a dangerous weapon, assault while participating in a felony, possession of burglar tools and two counts of stalking.

He also pleaded not guilty to possession of a controlled substance and 37 counts of forgery for the alleged possession of dozens of fake debit and credit cards, driver's licenses and Social Security cards.

According to court documents, Michaels contacted the woman several times from March 7-17 and placed a GPS tracker on her car.

On April 2, court documents said, Michaels, armed with a knife, broke into the woman's apartment while she was gone. When the woman came home, Michaels handcuffed her and shocked her six or seven times, causing injuries to her neck, back, shoulder and arm. The woman was able to call 911, and dispatchers heard her scream for help before the call was disconnected.

Later in the day, Denison police arrested Michaels after a traffic stop in which they found the fake debit and credit cards, driver's licenses and Social Security cards, in addition to fentanyl, inside the car.

Michaels is being charged as a habitual offender, an enhancement that increases prison sentences to 15 years on each charge, because of previous felony convictions.
SIOUX CITY  A driver died early Monday after a head-on collision on a Sioux City street.

Sioux City police officers were dispatched at about 2 a.m. to the 5000 block of Outer Drive North, where they found two vehicles had been involved in a crash.

Police determined a Honda CRV was eastbound in the westbound lanes of the street between Floyd Boulevard and Business U.S. Highway 75 and struck a westbound Toyota RAV4 SUV head on.

The driver of the Honda, 42-year-old Brandon Fierro, was unconscious at the scene and was transported to MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the Toyota was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor, police said. The accident investigation is ongoing.
SIOUX CITY  The Sioux City Council will be asked Monday to approve a resolution to create a wastewater treatment plant reconstruction and design advisory committee.

According to city documents, the committee is being proposed to create a formal mechanism to address concerns by users during the design stages of the plant's reconstruction. The committee's overall mission will be to ensure that the reconstruction addresses the needs of the community now and in the future.

During the council's last meeting, Siouxland Chamber of Commerce President Chris McGowan warned council members that they were jeopardizing their relationship with the business community if they didn't "tap the brakes" on a projected $470 million rebuild of the city's aging wastewater treatment plant and delay third and final reading of an ordinance that will increases sewer rates beginning July 1.

McGowan handed council members a proposal to form a workgroup or committee and asked that they revise the ordinance to include it. City Attorney Nicole DuBois advised that the proposal couldn't be part of the ordinance, but, perhaps, could be included in a resolution brought before the council at a subsequent meeting.

"I'd like to have that put on a near future agenda so that we can give proper notice to the public of what we're considering about forming a group," Mayor Pro Tem Dan Moore said at that time.

Sioux City wastewater treatment plant Sioux City's Wastewater Treatment Plant is shown in this 2022 file photo. The Sioux City Council will be asked Monday to approve a resolution 

McGowan responded, "I'm perfectly fine with that as long as third reading is suspended until such time. Anything short of that, Dan, blows up this negotiation."

In spite of objections from the business community, the council went ahead and approved third and final reading by a vote of 4 to 0. Mayor Bob Scott was absent from the meeting.

Upon the formation of the committee, a work plan to look at the scope of the project and cost issues would be developed, according to the documents. The city is proposing that the committee be made up of 15 members: the utilities director, wastewater treatment plant manager, city manager, city finance director, lead project manager of the selected engineering firm, two citizens of Sioux City, five members of the major industrial users, one member of the Chamber/The Siouxland Initiative, one representative of the sister cities and one member of the Sioux City Council.

"Input will be received from the group to ensure that all factors are being considered in the design and sizing of the plant and to ensure that rates in place are adjusted to meet the financial needs for the reconstruction," the documents stated. "This committee will provide valuable input to the city and design engineer as the project is designed."

If the committee is approved, monthly meetings will be held as soon as the engineering design firm is selected. Subcommittees could also be formed to address specific areas of the project, according to the documents.

The plant, 3100 S. Lewis Blvd., would be rebuilt in phases. It currently poses significant safety issues for city staff and has a history of compliance issues with the state. In January 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.

The city would pay for the wastewater treatment plant project with a combination of funding, including the rate increase and American Rescue Plan Act dollars. The city received $40.6 million from ARPA, a COVID relief package signed by President Biden in March 2021.

Industries will see a 5% sewer rate increase effective July 1 and a 25% increase effective Jan. 1, 2024. Rates are slated to jump 20% in FY 2025 and 2026, while in FY 2027 the increase will be 8.5%. Residential and commercial ratepayers will see an annual rate increase of 20% in FY 2024, which begins July 1, 10% in FY 2025 and 3% in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

McGowan previously said he believes the city could also qualify for funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests more than $50 billion through the EPA's water infrastructure programs.
More than 100 wildfires raging across the Alberta region of Canada have forced more than 29,000 people to flee in what officials have called an "unprecedented situation" for the province.

In the past 24 hours alone, 16 new fires have ignited in Alberta, Wildfire Information Unit Lead Christie Tucker said during a Sunday evening news conference.

Firefighters across the province were battling 108 active wildfires, 31 of which were burning "out of control," according to Tucker.

This type of ferocious wildfire activity isn't typical this early in the year, and firefighters don't usually see such a large area burned, Tucker said Sunday morning.

But bone-dry conditions, abnormally hot weather and high winds have converged to fuel this "really extreme wildfire activity," Tucker said.

"We could be sort of settling in for a long fight here," she said.

Wildfires have burned a total of 375,000 hectares, about 926,000 acres, in Alberta so far this year, and recent blazes have burned a "huge amount of ground" over the last few days, Tucker said.

Additional firefighters and resources are heading to Alberta from across the country to battle the growing fires, and crews have already arrived from Quebec and Ontario to join the firefight, Tucker said.

Some gains were made Sunday as scattered showers across the province helped firefighters access areas they couldn't before due to extreme wildfire behavior.

Firefighters now hope that cooler temperatures and higher humidity will help them battle the flames in the south and central part of the province -- but challenging conditions remain in the northern part of the province, Tucker said.

"Up north, it's still very dry. We're still seeing winds and we are expecting a continuation of those kinds of conditions that can lead to extreme wildfire behavior," she said in the Sunday evening news conference.

Communities in Alberta have seen some extremely hot temperatures in the past week, with the capital city of Edmonton hitting 31 degrees Celsius, about 88 degrees Fahrenheit, on Wednesday and Thursday -- more than 10 degrees above average, according to the Canada Centre for Climate Services.

The region has also seen a lack of precipitation which may have contributed to the extreme fire conditions in Alberta, drying out land and making fires more difficult to contain, CNN Meteorologist Robert Shackelford said.

Tucker said crews faced with "rapidly changing wildfires across the province" will continue to focus their efforts on fires that are threatening communities.

Meanwhile, multiple hospitals have been fully evacuated and many roads are closed in north and central Alberta, according to province officials.

So far, about 5,000 people have sought refuge at evacuation centers, Alberta Emergency Management chief Colin Blair said in the Sunday news conference.

The extent of the damage has yet to be seen

As thousands of Albertans flee their homes and head to evacuation centers, they leave not knowing whether they'll have a home to return to when the evacuation orders are lifted.

Rick Laboucan, who grew up in the community of Fox Lake, told CNN affiliate CTV that his family home won't be there when the community returns.

"My whole family's side over there, our little village side there on the north Fox Lake is all wiped out," Laboucan said. "Family and friends' homes are gone."

An out-of-control wildfire has burned more than 16,300 hectares of land, about 40,200 acres, as of Sunday in the community of Fox Lake, authorities said.

It remains unclear just how much damage the fires have left as the thick smoke and heavy fire conditions keep crews from fully assessing property loss, Blair said.

"We know structures have been lost, but our first priority is protecting lives and dealing with the emergency response first and foremost," Blair said.

Officials do know that dozens of structures have been damaged, including in the Fox Lake area, where 56 firefighters with heavy equipment and aircraft are battling the flames, authorities said.

Many have also been ordered to flee in Yellowhead County, where immediate evacuations were ordered for 8,000 people. Another 3,600 were ordered to evacuate from Little Red River Cree Nation.

Another out-of-control wildfire dubbed EWF-031 has burned about 77,920 hectares of land, about 192,500 acres, as it rages southeast of the town of Edson in Yellowhead County, according to Alberta fire officials.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said it's an "unprecedented situation our province is facing."

"We have so many fires, so spread out and it's because we've seen unprecedented conditions this spring. ... It's been an unusual year," Tucker said.

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Victory Day, Russias most important secular holiday, lauds two tenets that are central to its identity: military might and moral rectitude. But the war in Ukraine undermines both this year.

The holiday falling on Tuesday marks the 78th anniversary of Germany's capitulation in World War II after a relentless Red Army offensive pushed German forces from Stalingrad, deep inside Russia, all the way to Berlin, about 2,200 kilometers (1,300 miles).

The Soviet Union lost at least 20 million people in the war; the suffering and valor that went into the German defeat have been touchstones ever since.

However, many regions have canceled their May 9 observances because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks.

The famed parade in Moscows Red Square will go ahead following Russia's claim of an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on the Kremlin, whose spires loom next to the parade venue, but amid ramped-up security measures. The use of drones has been once again banned in the Russian capital, and car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city center, with users unable to start or finish rides there.

In St. Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city, the authorities also banned the use of drones ahead of a parade. In some parts of the city's extensive network of rivers and canals, the use of jet skis has also been forbidden.

For all the fearsome armaments that will growl through Moscow's most famous square, Russias failure to make gains in Ukraine spoils the image of its armys indomitability.

After seizing sizable parts of the neighboring country in the opening weeks of the invasion, the Russians abandoned an attempt to enter Kyiv, retreated in parts of northern and southern Ukraine, and failed to take Bakhmut, a small city of questionable value, despite months of exceptionally gruesome fighting.

President Vladimir Putin, in his speech during the parade, is sure to praise the Red Armys determination to wipe out Nazism and to repeat his assertion that Russia is taking the moral high ground by fighting an alleged Nazi regime in Ukraine, a country with a Jewish president.

But the missiles that rain down on Ukrainian civilian targets have drawn worldwide condemnation of Russia, while the Western countries that made common cause with Moscow to defeat Nazi Germany send billions of dollars' worth of weapons to Ukraine.

Analysts are divided on whether the May 3 drone incident at the Kremlin was a genuine attack or a false flag concocted to justify increasing the ferocity of Russia's missile barrages in Ukraine. Either explanation risks undermining the sense of security among Russians already rattled by attacks, likely committed by Ukraine or by domestic opponents, that have risen sharply in recent weeks.

Two freight trains derailed this week in bomb explosions in the Bryansk region that borders Ukraine. Notably, the regions authorities did not blame Ukraine, which could be an attempt to whitewash the Ukrainian capability to carry out sabotage.

But Bryansk authorities claimed in March that two people were shot and killed when alleged Ukrainian saboteurs penetrated the region. The region has also come under sporadic cross-border shelling, including last month, when four people were killed.

Three prominent supporters of the war in Ukraine were also killed or injured on their home turf elsewhere in Russia. A car-bombing last week in the Nizhny Novgorod region that officials blamed on Ukraine and the United States severely injured nationalist novelist Zakhar Prilepin and killed his driver.

Last year, Darya Dugina, a commentator with a nationalist TV channel, died in a car bombing outside Moscow, and authorities alleged Ukrainian intelligence was behind the April death in St. Petersburg of prominent pro-war blogger Vladlen Tatarsky, who was killed when a bomb inside a statuette he was handed at a restaurant party exploded.

Amid the heightened security worries, authorities also canceled one of Victory Day's most notable observances, the Immortal Regiment processions in which throngs of citizens take to the streets holding portraits of relatives who died or served in World War II.

The processions carry an air of genuine emotion, in sharp contrast to the obedient stone-faced soldiers who march across Red Square during the tightly regimented military parades that change little from year to year.
Climate communications: Laura Helmuth and Susan Hassol talk about language

Posted on 8 May 2023 by Doug Bostrom

Do people hear what we're saying about climate change and why it's important? Making sure we're understood needs displacement into other sets of ears.

The right words are crucial to solving climate change  but too often the way that scientists share information can be confusing for the general public. How can researchers and other science communicators more clearly get across their findings and potential solutions, to help us together make progress on such important global challenges? Join Laura Helmuth, Editor-in-Chief at Scientific American, in conversation with Susan Hassol Director, Climate Communication.

This interview from Springer Nature's In Conversation pairs with Hassol's recent article The Right Words Are Crucial to Solving Climate Change, published in Scientific American.

Helmuth and Hassol explore choosing terminology for better mutual understanding. The same linguistic barriers Helmuth and Hassol tackle lead Skeptical Science to undertake a massive revision project aimed at leveling the hill between climate talk and climate listen by using plain language. Here are three examples of how language goes amiss, and how to land on target:
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  The country logged 9,465 new COVID-19 cases from May 1 to 7, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

In its weekly bulletin, the DOH reported an average of 1,352 daily cases, reflecting a 112% increase from April 24 to 30.

Of the new infections, 50 are in critical condition. Meanwhile, 9 deaths were recorded from April 24 to May 7.

The DOH also said 78 million individuals were already vaccinated against COVID-19 while 23 million received their booster shots.

On Sunday, OCTA Research fellow Guido David said Metro Manila increased its positivity rate from 17.2% to 22.7%.

According to figures dated May 6, high positivity rates were also reported in Batangas, Bulacan, Camarines Sur, Cavite, Isabela, Laguna and Rizal, where levels are more than 20%.

Earlier, David said there is no need to reimpose a lockdown despite the increase of COVID-19 cases.

Wala tayong danger of lockdown pero may mga taong mahahawaan and kung gusto nila ma-prevent yung hawaan, then, they can opt to protect themselves with [wearing] face masks or observing other health protocols, David said.

[Translation: We have no danger of lockdown but there are people who can get infected and if they want to prevent the infection, then, they can opt to protect themselves by wearing face masks or observing other health protocols.]
How to Do It is Slates sex advice column. Have a question? Send it to Stoya and Rich here. Its anonymous!

Dear How to Do It,

My boyfriend and I started attending social clubs for people who are into kinky sex (theyre called munches) after he discovered I have some unconventional sexual preferences. He is very cerebral and is an extreme empath (sometimes he knows me better than I know myself), is extroverted (Im not), and can understand a person within minutes of talking to them. He sees that Ive come out of my shell and that Im having fun talking to other like-minded people, and he wants to support me as I explore my kinks. The problem is, he doesnt really have any kinks and feels that hes not getting the same enjoyment out of this endeavor as I amhes basically my wingman. How can I make these outings fun for my boyfriend, so were exploring as equal partners? Hes so desperate to have fun and I just dont know how to help him.

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Desperate Muncher

Dear Desperate Muncher,

Well, this was a journey. Not a very long one, but a journey all the same. I was surprised at the end of your letter to learn that your boyfriend is so desperate to have fun in this social scene; up until then, I thought everyone was on the same page that this was about you, and not him. Basically, your wingman sounds about rightI read his accompanying you to these munches as an expression of his extreme empathy and assumed that whatever pleasure he got from this was going to be either vicariously or of the compersion variety. It just doesnt make sense for him to expect to score in a kinky environment if hes not kinky. Who goes to a dog park and asks around if anyones holding catnip? Its true, that some kinky people do have vanilla sex (and enjoy it), but he could only really discover that possibility by talking to people.

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Otherwise, I think there just needs to be an understanding that what youre both doing here is to scratch your itch. This is an act of generosity on his part and a very good way to manage a mixed-interest relationship. Perhaps you can help him explore what hes into in another arena, but whatever fun he does have as a result of the munches is probably something he will happen upon, not necessarily manifest or dictate.

Dear How to Do It,

My wife and I are both 61, in mostly good health with good jobs. We both exercise regularly.

About 4-to-5 years ago, my wife started losing interest in sex, always saying she just wasnt in the mood, until I stopped asking. We are close and affectionate empty-nesters. We are quite comfortable financiallywe have a weekly cleaning service, so no major household tasks. We have shared interests, lovely vacations, cuddle and kiss. I very much love her. Its just all very PG-rated.

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Maybe this hits me especially hard because of my background. I was probably what is today called on the spectrum. I went to a sophisticated college where I was awkward socially. I had a dozen women friends, none of whom had the least bit of romantic attraction to me. (Im no movie star but at least average looking and was a varsity athlete.)

My future wife and I met a couple years out of college. We were each others first serious partner and at 24, both virgins. We were awkward at first, but we enjoyed sex, even during the busy years with young children. With my wifes agreement, I happily got a vasectomy later to make sex more spontaneous, as her doctor advised against the pill.

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Now, Im wondering, as I did in college, what I was doing wrong. I dont even know how to bring it up to her when she clearly doesnt want any physical relationshipIm afraid even my query would build an emotional barrier between us. I guess Im feeling like I was the last person to have sex and the first to give it up! Not a world-ending problem, but these bookends make me feel unattractive. Any ideas for next steps? Or should I just accept that no marriage is perfect and suck it up?

Missing Part of Our Life

Dear Missing,

Whatever your next step is, I dont advise taking it without accepting the idea that your wifes current lack of interest in sex may have nothing to do with you. For some people, libido simply fades with age. Others discover aspects of their identities that make proceeding as usual difficult or impossible. Your feelings are your feelings, but they may very well be based on a false premise, so if you go into a conversation already assuming that you and your attractiveness are to blame, you may miss something or risk turning her off from communicating. Its better to ask questions with an open mind and a willingness to have your perception informed by her experience, should she be willing to share it. Dont impose your insecurities on a discussion of your wifes sexuality.

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You said that you were awkward and that your women friends in college had no attraction to you. I wonder how you knew this. Its of course possible that you hit on them and were told no directly and repeatedly, but its also possible that you didnt do much to facilitate action. Sometimes charisma and interest are necessary to woo others. Very few people get to elicit fawning by just showing up. Some pairings require a catalyst to make sparks fly; if neither party is willing to be that person, the sparks skip the party. Attractiveness is about more than just looks, and if you werent particularly engaged or engaging, well, maybe you werent getting any kind of message across.

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You also need to figure out what you want. Do you want more sex with your wife? Are you looking to explore outside of your relationship? Would it be better for you to stay in this relationship, sexually unsatisfying as it may be, than to take a chance on your own? Try to get as clear on this as you can before talking, as it will give you a sense of directionif for some reason you werent willing to take control of your college-years interactions with prospective partners, well, make up for it now. Be tactful, but dont over-worry about provoking an emotional barrier; your anxiety is understandable but, like all anxiety, it may not be warranted and so it shouldnt dictate your self-expression. If it does, youd be making that imagined barrier real. You. Start off by inquiring about herwhat does she think of your sex life as it is? Is she willing to talk about her apparent lack of desire and what she believes is behind it? And finally, what does she think you should do about it? Does she actually expect you to be celibate? If she does, getting her to verbalize that may be the first step on the path to reconsidering.

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Dear How to Do It,

I am an adult woman in her thirties who has never had sex. This isnt for lack of interest, more lack of opportunity and a social anxiety disorder that makes me freeze up a bit in unfamiliar situations. I havent dated since before the pandemic, but I moved to a new city last year and I want to try dating again. However, Im struggling to find my confidence as a sexual partner. As Ive gotten older, Ive encountered more and more people who have made casual remarks about people who are inexperienced or bad in bed and how they expect better partners at their age. Even my last partner, who was very kind and respectful, expressed notable surprise and hesitation when I told him that I was a virgin at 26. It just makes me feel like an ice skater who is expected to do jumps the first time ever on the ice, and its making the prospect of dating after a long romantic dry spell even more anxiety-inducing than it would be otherwise.

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What should I do to help get over this mental hang-up over my lack of sexual experience? Should I be as up front about it as possible with prospective partners so they know to keep their expectations low? Should I go with a more fake it til you make it approach and keep it to myself, hoping they dont notice?

Shy and Severely Single

Dear Severely Single,

Well, look, youre already tried option A, and thats gotten you nowhere, so maybe dip your toe in option B. Im a big fan of fake it til you make it when it comes to confidence, as synthesized confidence (that doesnt go overboard, lapsing into self-delusion) is often indistinguishable from the real stuff. Posed confidence can also help you generate the real stuffa positive response from your put-on confidence may enact actual confidence, and voila.

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Dont assume youll be bad. Yes, technique is something that can be accrued over time and there are certain acts (like giving blowjobs) during which inexperience tends to be clear. But keep in mind that every sexual meeting is an origin story, and things like passion and chemistry tend to be just as (if not more important) than learned form. Experience can give you a hunch on what will work for pleasing your partner, but because everyone is different and sexual taste ranges so widely, it always ultimately comes down to that particular persons individual proclivities, and those can only be learned through discussion or direct experience. With new partners, were all newbies in a way.

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Your virginity may be useful information to some partners, but if you feel like its too much of a distraction, skip the conversation and plunge right into it. With that kind of approach, you wont be a virgin for long. Render your own concern moot.

Did you write this or another letter we answered? Tell us what happened at howtodoit@slate.com.

Dear How to Do It,

Im a trans man in a long-term (about 12 years) marriage with a woman thats recently opened up. One of our motivations for opening up our relationship was discovering we both have a very intense interest in BDSM  both as dominants. Shes having a great time, and I am genuinely happy for her; were both very communicative about our feelings; and we still have a shared romantic life and vanilla sex life that makes both of us happy.

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However, Im having a bit of trouble navigating my own side of things. While I am bisexual, I havent dated men since I was early in transition. Because of that, my sexual experiences with men were a lot of men who, in hindsight, were clearly misgendering me in their heads. As a result of this (plus being repulsed by bottoming for PiV sex, which the cis men Ive been with have pretty much all expected me to do), Im always a bit on edge with cis men who express interest in trans men, especially me specifically. It doesnt help that the kinks I want to dom for really fall into the classicwhat male subs interested in femdom tend to be into packageCBT, ballbusting, chastity/keyholding, etc.

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Obviously, there are women who are into bottoming/subbing for all of these, and I have no opposition to playing with them (and to be honest would strongly prefer it). However, a) there are fewer trans women within my dating/hookup range than cis men just because of population statistics and b) most of the trans women Ive met who are into these things are either exclusively into other women, or tend to only like men who are a lot more feminine than I am.

Logically, I know that if I want to play any time soon, its probably a good idea to start opening up to playing with cis men. However, the always on alert part of my brain is always a bit suspicious when cis men approach me.

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To be fair, this is less of an issue with people I meet in real life, as I am cis male passing and am usually assumed to be cis. But in spaces online or where I feel I have to disclose my trans status before playing/hooking up, it comes into play. A solution I have thought of is to just have a no straight/heteroflexible/curious men rule, but I did have some of that misgendering experience with bisexual/pansexual cis men, so Im not sure thatd be enough to make me feel comfortable.

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How can I get over my discomfort? Should I every try and get over my discomfort? I dont think Id be unhappy to just not pursue this part of myself in terms of feeling like my relationship with my wife is unequally open, so I wonder if I should just let it remain fantasy until the time if/when I find a woman whod be down.

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Aspiring Dom

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Dear Aspiring Dom,

It seems like you know the right path forward for you, which is to mitigate risk of misgendering in partner selection. Do keep in mind that the process of finding casual partners or just dating in general is uncomfortable for a lot of people, regardless of gender identity. Strangers say shitty things to each other from behind their screens, whether intentionally or because they simply arent aware of individual sensitivities. Intimacy that fast tends to get messy.

I think the issue for you is that the stakes are higher because of the pain (and potential for triggering dysphoria) of being misgendered. So it makes sense to be carefulthe reward has to at least match (and hopefully supersede) the risk. Sluts put up with bullshit because good sex is worth it, though given your life experience, I cannot fault you for being particularly averse to insensitive and/or ignorant feedback. You may find a middle ground via online screening, like the type you suggest. Have you noticed patterns in the type of guys who misgender you? Do they have other related beliefs that you could ask them about in attempt to get a better picture of how likely they might be to misgender you? Perhaps even asking them, Have you ever been with a trans guy?, will be a decent preliminary way to weed out the real ignorant ones.

That said, you strongly prefer being with women, and as of now, it seems like youd be happy without pursuing the partners that pose more of a threat to your emotional well-being, so this is a case where the path of least resistance is actually the more scenic route anyway. Its good to challenge yourself, and new experiences are fun, so just proceed with caution and screen diligently and you may actually find some dudes worth your time.

Rich

More Advice From Slate

Im a married woman. I had a three-month affair with an old boyfriend, Jim, that ended abruptly two weeks ago when I got an email from a friend saying Check this out! with a link to CNN. I clicked and a page with a video player showing a picture of the guest bedroom in my house opened. Huh? I later noticed the CNN link was actually a hypertext link to IPaddress/myname. I clicked play and a message popped up: I know youre watching.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group.

Dear Care and Feeding,

I dont know how to put this any other way, but were pretty sure our 5-year-old is a genius; I know every parent says that (and theyre probably right!) but our son seems very much like hes the inspiration for young Sheldon. He can add, subtract, multiply, find squares, find factors, etc. He can read multisyllabic words and complex texts. Hes due to start kindergarten in the fall but hes really way past it already. We cant afford private school and we both work, so homeschooling is not an option. Our local district has no gifted program to speak of, although the principal said that they can differentiate. (How do you do that in kindergarten when fractions arent part of the kindergarten curriculum?) Were at a loss as to how we can help him without spending loads of money on enrichment to make up for the fact that his school cant do much for him beyond socialization (although thats not nothing, of course). Any guidance on how to help him reach his potential without breaking the bank?

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Confused Mary Cooper

Dear Confused Mary Cooper,

For now, I would enroll him in kindergarten and be prepared to have conversations (possibly several) with his teacher about his abilities. He or she might see the gulf between their curriculum and his capabilities and elevate his case to school leadership. At that point, its possible that they would have more proof and motivation to help you think creatively on behalf of your child. (Jumping grades, for example, might be on the table, although its not a decision to be made lightly since it comes with lots of socialization complications.) On the other hand, you and his teacher might find that although his abilities are advanced, the subject matter and peer interactions are enough to keep him engaged and still give him ways to grow. But, overall, I think your concerns about differentiation within the classroom are well-founded. There is only so much one teacher can do for two dozen kids.

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In terms of enriching him outside the classroom, I am afraid the hefty bill might be inevitable. On the plus (?) side, activities and summer camp are expensive no matter how smart a kid is! And its still less money than daycare! Jokes aside, not every enrichment activity has to be super brainy and specialized. Music lessons are a great moderate-cost activity that is still heavily mathematical in nature. And local colleges may have summer programs for gifted kids that operate on a sliding scale. Khan Academy might be worth exploring to help your child advance either within the school classroom or on his own at home. Unlike some other online learning platforms, the instruction is self-paced and thus more flexible to the user.

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If you do decide that private school is the answer, the Davidson Institute has a list of possible scholarship sources on its website. This might also be an opportunity to ask family members whether they can help chip in for tuition. As we know, it takes a village, and your loved ones might want to help the boy they love reach his potential.

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Catch Up on Care and Feeding

 If you missed Sundays column, read it here.

 Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group!

Dear Care and Feeding,

I have a 9-year-old son in third grade who doesnt test well. He was diagnosed with ADHD and, despite having accommodations, he still is testing at a kindergarten or first-grade level in reading and around first or second grade in math. At his recent individualized education program (IEP) meeting, the teacher was going over what areas he is behind in, and I was shocked at some of them, such as reordering in math equations and solving equations where you have to borrow or carry. He has been doing those types of problems seamlessly at home; he has even been asking his dad to give him math problems every day where he has to carry or borrow. Additionally, at home, he can (slowly) read a story to us and then answer reading comprehension questions correctly. And despite barely passing Spanish in school, he held his own on a recent trip to Mexico, both speaking Spanish and identifying written words.

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I am frustrated and stuck. The schools discourage having kids repeat a grade anymore, especially when they have an IEP, so I know he wont fail, but I am wondering what the point is in even sending him to school or having him test when it is not reflective of what he knows. Transferring to a private school with a less traditional instruction model isnt really an option due to his ADHD and impulsivity issues. Homeschooling or finding a virtual school option is a possibility but with the latter, wed still have the testing issues. Should we just continue in traditional school and hope that as he gets older, hell test better? Should we try homeschooling for a year and see if it improves? Do tests even really matter? My husband thinks we should just continue as is and make sure that he knows what he is supposed to know and not pay attention to grades or scores, but I hate when he comes home with yet another D on an assignment; he seems so upset and defeated. I worry about the narrative this is sending him about himself.

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Dont Test Me

Dear Dont Test,

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If your sons accommodations arent helping him compensate for his disability, they arent the right accommodations. Unfortunately, parents in situations like yours often find themselves outgunned or outnumbered when trying to advocate for their kids. I would enlist the help of an educational advocate, whose job is to help parents effectively advocate and participate as an active member of their childs education team. Services might include individualized education program (IEP) review, IEP meeting preparation sessions, accommodation suggestions, or direct engagement with the school. Their goal is to ensure you are informed and your concerns are heard so that both you and the school staff can be satisfied with your childs education plan.

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Id also try to surreptitiously record the types of scenarios you mention in your letter. They demonstrate the significant gulf between your sons at-home learning experience and how he is performing in school. Go so far as to take a test he did poorly on, reconstruct it in your own hand, and have him complete it at home (without knowing its the same test). I would be surprised if his teacher or counselor didnt find all of this compelling and worthy of a meeting and IEP amendment.

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If these adjustments to his public school experience do not bear fruit, then maybe a trial year of homeschooling couldnt hurt. I appreciate your husbands suggestion to de-emphasize grades, but your sons feeling of dejection is more salient to me. We want kids to enjoy learning and see themselves as people who can learn. Consistently failing after working hard can be really demoralizing to kids and poison their self-esteem and self-worth in long-lasting ways. If you think you are up to the challenge of being an effective homeschooler, and you can also get him the therapies and interventions hell need to learn to manage his ADHD, then it sounds like an option you should consider.

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Submit your questions about parenting and family life here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.)

Dear Care and Feeding,

I have a very smart, sometimes sweet but usually quite defiant 8-year-old stepdaughter. Ive been in her life since she was 3. Her parents get along and co-parent very well, and we all hang out together and have a good relationship. Early on, I noticed that there was quite a bit of guilt-driven parenting on all sidesletting her run the show and giving in to everything she wanted, with little disciplining or correction of negative behaviors. Obviously, its normal for young kids to throw tantrums, but I would try to remind my partner that giving a child what they want following that behavior will only reinforce it. My partner would shrug it off and say shell grow out of it. Well, shockingly, she has not. She continues to throw massive tantrums whenever something doesnt go her way, she rarely follows even simple requests (or at least not until weve asked six times), has a very hard time offering genuine apologies, and has an extremely entitled attitude. Simply put, she is spoiled.

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My partner finally began to see this about a year ago, and changes have been made in our home to try to stop the behavior. We try to follow more positive reinforcement, though admittedly we sometimes fall off the horse. There have been some improvements but overall the issues still remain. The interesting part, though, is that at school we are told she is a completely different childkind, helpful, respectful, and caring. When weve asked her why she acts differently at school, her response is Because teachers dont love you as much as parents do. I do think that is part of it, but I believe it goes deeper than that. She has begun making more comments about her parents being separated lately (even though it happened before she can recall), and I have a gut feeling that the behavior is coming from underlying anger about that, which of course, is natural for her to feel. How do we validate her feelings, but still get her to realize she has a pretty great life? I get the sense she feels like she shouldnt have to behave better at home because she views her situation as being inherently unfair. How can we break through her behavior if she feels entitled to it?

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Struggling Stepparent

Dear Stepparent,

Does she act out in similar ways at her other parents home, or is it just you and your partner who are drawing her ire? If its a universal attitude she is displaying, have all the parents come together to enact a plan so that the same behaviors trigger the same consequences, no matter where she is? If not, that is one of the first things you should address. She needs to be held accountable in both home environments, and if its done in a consistent fashion, shell experience less whiplashespecially since having two households seems to be at the root of some of her behavior. I would be fair but firm in the consequences you dole out and be prepared to hold yourself to them. (For example, if no screen time is the punishment, would that actually cause more headaches for you ?) No more asking six times; if three doesnt do the job, there needs to be a consequence, even if it means missing out on something important. Many people associate the book 1-2-3 Magic with toddler behavior management, but the approach can age up with kids and may be a good starting point for your family.

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I know the advice I am about to give may seem tiresome because my fellow columnists and I so often suggest this, but. have you considered therapy? If your stepdaughters behavior really does stem from some resentment about the divorce, a third party could be very beneficial in helping her process her feelings and adjust her attitude. Family therapy would give her the opportunity to put some of her complex emotions into words and also give you all some guidance for what kinds of behaviors to allow and notand how to respond. You would typically have a mix of individual sessions and group sessions, where the therapist can almost mediate conversations between you and your daughter. While 8 years old might seem young for therapy, I can tell you its made a world of difference for some of my friends with kids that same age during times of intense conflict. Your stepdaughter seems to be displaying some egocentricity, and therapy can help her see things from other points of view. Good luck!

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Dear Care and Feeding,

Im a mom of a 13-year-old son (and three older kids). My estranged wife of 35 years is his bio-parent and I adopted him at birth. Im the bio-parent of our three oldest kids, and all four kids have the same known-donor dad. Eight years ago, my wife had a mental breakdown and spent two months in residential care. After a couple of years of trying hard to make things work, her depression, anxiety, and paranoia were too much for the kids and me to handle, and shes been living in another city with her brother for the past five years. I pay rent to her brother and all of her bills, and for three years, I brought the kids out every weekend to visit with her. The older kids are now away at college and living adult lives, so Ive been taking the 13-year-old for visits with his other mom. He has now decided he wants nothing to do with her, refusing to talk on the phone or visit her. She and I are still legally married because I fully support her financially and I dont want her to lose her health insuranceand because I made a commitment to her years ago that I want to honor.

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I cant disagree with his comments about how Shes always drunk, or She monopolizes the conversations, but it feels wrong to let him decide to not talk with her or visit with her. She cut things off with me a few years ago, refusing to let me stay the weekend at her brothers place with her and the kids. (He has room and has always welcomed me with open arms.) My son recently discovered that, in our state, if we were to divorce, hes at an age where he could decide whether to visit his other mom or not. Hes now encouraging me to divorce his other mom so he can refuse to visit her. Everything feels so wrong! How do I decide what to do? When does my obligation to my son override my obligation to my wife? How do I know if my insistence that our son continue to visit his mom is leading to trauma rather than connection?

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Mom

Dear Mom,

I wish I had a little more information before I gave advice; I am wondering whether your wife left you and the kids of her own accord, or whether that was a mutually agreed upon solution for her care needs. If she left your family in the sense of walking out on you, I would say you are more than meeting any commitment you made to her through your financial help. But if it was more about her care, and she never intended to abandon the kids, it gets more complicated.

My gut reaction is to follow your sons wishes because I think a parents first responsibility must always be to their childrenand it sounds like your wifes behavior can be rather problematic when they get together (bad conversation skills are one thing, but being visibly drunk is something else entirely). However, mental illness is real and not the fault of the person, so I understand why abandoning these visits feels so undesirable to you. Regardless of her decision to cut off contact with you, it seems critical that you and she (and maybe the brother, if a mediating force is needed) discuss your sons feelings and her behavior. Whether you each like it or not, you and your wife are co-parents, and Im not sure it is reasonable for her to have contact with your son but be unwilling to discuss that sons well-being together. She needs to know that her behavior is destroying her relationship with at least one of her kids. I hope she is in active therapy or other treatment so that she has ways to address the behavior if she chooses.

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I think it is time to consult a family law attorney who could properly guide you on your legal options. You dont want to be put in jeopardy by withholding your son from his mother. Likewise, the attorney might know what options, aside from divorce, could give your son more agency in how he spends his time. This is not the situation anyone expects to be in when they commit to a partner and start a family together. I hope you, your wife, and the whole family will soon find peace and stability.

Allison

More Advice From Slate

Ive been with my fiance for five years. The first six months of our relationship were an affairI was 24 and he was 31and I found out early on that he was married, kept telling myself to break things off, but was never was able to do it. His (now ex-)wife learned about the relationship and was willing to try to work things out, but he ultimately chose to divorce her. During the initial months following the revelation of the affair, I put up with a lot of abuse from her.
Last week, a landmark verdict found Enrique Tarrio and three other Proud Boys leaders guilty of seditious conspiracy in connection with the Jan. 6 insurrection. Federal prosecutors in D.C. successfully convinced a jury of the far-right groups deep involvement in the Capitol attack, detailing their planning and execution, which included arranging travel, acquiring weapons and tactical gear, and using covert communication channels for coordination. The Oath Keepers, a paramilitary organization, faced a similar verdict recentlyprosecutors said Monday that they will seek 25 years in prison for the groups founder, Stewart Rhodesemphasizing the collaboration between extremist groups in their attempt to disrupt the transfer of power.

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The verdicts, obtained using Civil Warera laws, are a watershed moment for American extremism, and would have been unthinkable until recently. But do they mean the Justice Departments postJan. 6 crackdown is working? Extremist violence on the rise. What does that tell us?

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Cynthia Miller-Idriss, a professor at American University and the head of the schools Polarization and Extremism Research and Innovation Lab, was cautious in answering those questions after the verdict. The author of Hate in the Homeland: The New Global Far Right, Miller-Idriss said the effort to stop the flow of radicalized people into the Proud Boys is only beginning, and while the verdicts are historic, they may distract us from a deeper threat. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Aymann Ismail: What was the reaction to this verdict in extremism circles?

Cynthia Miller-Idriss: Everybody feels, and should feel, that its a good day for democracy, to see that theres a real consequence. Its a serious consequence, and it stuck. They proved seditious conspiracy. Thats amazing, Im glad that the message is out there.

But at the same time, from the prevention positionI cant help but think, how many resources do we have to keep putting into the security, the carceral end of the spectrum? After Jan. 6, I think the change in budget was $2 billion just to improve security at the Capitol. We have a tiny fraction of that for prevention. We keep securitizinglockdowns of the city every time theres an inauguration, more fencing. Which, once something criminal has happened, obviously you have to go down that path. But I would like to see just as much energy into, like, preventing people from going down these rabbit holes of propaganda. Were seeing record-breaking hate crimes, a steady rise in every form of domestic violent extremism, and rising support for political violence. More and more people are headed down that pipeline. It takes a tremendous amount of resources to keep locking people up. Where is the effort in preventing it to begin with?

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Arent the seditious conspiracy verdicts pretty major?

I was really surprised after the Oath Keepers verdict, in which six of them were found guilty of the same charge. I was like, Oh my God, thats the first time in decades weve seen that. Its a charge that goes back to the Civil War. Its rare. Its hard to prove. But after those Oath Keepers were found guilty, it was less surprising to see it on the Proud Boys case.

Whether that actually acts as a deterrent to anybody is still an open question. But its absolutely important to hold people accountable for what they did, which was trying to stop the certification of a U.S. election. Its not quite treason, but itsthe next step would be treason.

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How are members of the Proud Boys, or other similar right-wing groups, reacting to the news?

Heres the thing. I think its really important to note that the arrests and the charges didnt really slow the Proud Boys down. They just pivoted to other opportunistic issues and trends that are out there. So, now theyve hopped onto the drag show story hour bandwagon. Theyre showing up, protesting either violently or with the whiff of violence. Its part of the awful normalization of political violence that theyve helped bring about. It no longer seems surprising to have violent, potentially armed people prepared to enact violence at a childrens story hour at a library. This stuff has spilled into every domain of our public liveslibraries, school board meetings, local bookstores, etc. Theyve been active over the last several months. Theyre just moved on to other things.

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One of the important stories here, I think, is that theres a lot of focus on the seditious conspiracy charges and the nature of the Jan. 6 attack. But its really important to remember that at heart, they are a supremacist organization. They call themselves Western Chauvinists. Theyre bigots, theyre homophobic, theyre Islamophobic, antisemitic. Many of their members post awful, racist things online. That doesnt come up in this trial because thats not part of what theyve been charged with. But their members are a part of the toxic cultures online. Both Canada and New Zealand consider the Proud Boys a terrorist group. Theyre not just a handful of guys who plotted something on Jan. 6. And if this isnt deterring them, we have to think about it in a much more upstream way. Like, what is it that makes people join these groups? And how can we prevent that from happening to begin with?

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Some extremist groups have adapted and gotten smarter after the Fed crackdown after Jan. 6. Could this verdict have a similar effect with the Proud Boys?

All of these groups adapt really quickly. We saw this with the Boogaloo movement changing their name to, like, Blue Igloo or Big Luau. And then they all start wearing Hawaiian shirts because it represents luau. Theres this constant morphing, game-playing, and changing of codes or symbols. That militia group in the kidnapping plot against Gov. Whitmer in Michigan used emojis in texts as a communication strategy because stuff gets really hard to prove in court when youre arguing a series of emojis means that they were planning to blow up a bridge. Weve seen data showing that when the KKK was banned from Facebook, they migrated to VKontakte, and then they started using Cyrillic letters, and then they were able to get back onto Facebook using Cyrillic letters. All of these groups constantly do it. I actually think its part of what makes it fun for them. Like, its getting around the bans, figuring out ways to subvert power with secrecy and game-playing. Its especially fun for young teenagers in online spaces who do it with codes, memes, symbols, or whatever. And I think we see the same thing here. Not only does it not act as a deterrent to join the groups, they think they have to get better at not getting caught, and moving on to other targets. The Proud Boys are kind of agnostic right now about their targets. Theyre just causing mayhem. Theyve moved on from political targets to social ones.

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But couldnt that reduce their reach in recruitment efforts?

Yes, it might. We saw that with The Base. Weve seen with other groups, that when theyre disrupted, they become less powerful. But I think its really important to remember that only somewhere between 7 and 15 percent of all the violent terrorist attacks come from the far right. The vast majority of violence that we see, including on Jan. 6, is not tied to anybody whos a member of a group. As a society, we tend to focus on the groups, partly because for 20 years after 9/11, we were obsessively focused on Islamist forms of terrorism with really clear hierarchy and a chain of command.

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You can disrupt a group if you can go after the leaders. Weve done it in Charlottesville. Were doing it here. Its one way to tackle it and give us a sense of efficacy. But its not the majority of the problem. I think its great if it prevents people from joining this particular group. But just one group getting disrupted doesnt make me feel any better about the state of extremism. Because theres always another one to come take its place or reassemble it.

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What do you expect will happen with the Proud Boys now that their leadership seems to have been severed?

I think thats an open question still. With other groups, weve seen them maybe go dormant for a little while and then different leaders step in to reassemble it. But it also depends on how long people are in prison for. They come right back out after a few years, sometimes, and theyre right back plotting other attacks, as weve seen often. These groups get disrupted. They get arrested. They go in, depending on how many years theyre in for. They have time to plan and to plot, and then come right back out. That is the historic cycle. These sentences are probably going to carry much longer periods of time in prison. So hopefully we wont be seeing that kind three-to-five-year cycle where people pop right back out. But I think its still an open question to see what happens with the leadership vacuum.

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Do you expect any surprising broader implications of this verdict on the far-right extremist movement as a whole?

Its just a reminder to me that the carceral/securitized/surveillance model as our only strategy for countering violent extremism is not only inefficient and ineffective, but can also cause all these potential backlash effects down the road. Either because people think its part of a conspiracy, which deepens the distrust of the government, or because youre locking guys up who become further radicalized in prison, and weve seen that repeatedly. So, we dont know if thats going to happen here or if these guys are going to get sentences that are long enough that it actually doesnt matter. To me, its just a reminder that this cant be the best and only solution that we have. Obviously, we have to pursue it when something illegal has happened. But theres got to be something more.
Another day, another ProPublica investigation about Harlan Crows lavish undisclosed gifts to Clarence Thomas! In addition to paying for Thomas to go on vacation and buying a Georgia property where Thomas mother currently lives, Crow also paid the boarding school tuition for Thomas grandnephew, coming in at an estimated $100,000.

Crow is a huge figure in conservative politics. He, and groups linked with him, often have cases before the courtand Thomas has ruled in their favor. Ethics experts have called foul, saying Thomas failures to report his connections to Crow are flagrant violations of financial disclosure law.

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Theres not a ton that Congress can do about Thomas, or any justice who appears to be engaging in questionable ethical conduct, because the nature of the court is to be a self-governing body. Congress can investigate the courtwhich it is kind of doingor they can choose to impeach, which some lawmakers are calling for.

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How would impeaching a Supreme Court justice actually work? To shed some light on the situation, we looked back to the one time it happened: way back in 1804, when Congress tried to boot Associate Justice Samuel Chase.

They managed to get impeachment proceedings going, which lasted for three months and ultimately ended in his acquittal.

Chase was known to be quite a charactera staunch Federalist with a volcanic personality, according to the U.S. Senate archives, who earned the nickname of Old Bacon Face because of his reddish-brown complexion. As a young lawyer in 1762, he was expelled from a debate group for extremely irregular and indecent behavior. Despite this rowdy streak, he went on to a long career in politics, serving in the Maryland General Assembly for 20 years, and even became one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. (Yes, the only Supreme Court justice to face impeachment is also considered a founding father of the United States. Kind of on-brand for us?)

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Chase went on to serve as a judge in Marylands lower courts, and was first appointed to the Supreme Court by President George Washington in 1796. Chases troubles began during his eighth term on the court, under President Thomas Jefferson. (Chase had openly backed his opponent, John Adams, in the 1800 presidential election.)

Jefferson didnt love the idea of Supreme Court justices serving a lifetime appointment, fearing the judiciary could get too powerful. And Chase seemed like a perfect example of Jeffersons fears, since he already had a reputation for partisanship and controversy.

Jeffersons party initiated impeachment proceedings against Chase, accusing him of refusing to dismiss biased jurors and of excluding or limiting defense witnesses in two politically sensitive cases (Supreme Court justices at that time were required to preside over district courts). The impeachment managers also hoped to prove that Chase continually promoted his political agenda while serving on the bench, and accused him of tending to prostitute the high judicial character with which he was invested, to the low purpose of an electioneering partizan.

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Chase testified at his own impeachment trial and argued that he was being persecuted for political convictions, not any real criminal behaviora familiar tune, sung by Donald Trump just recently after being charged with 34 felony counts by the state of New York. In the end, Jeffersons party did not have the votes to convict, and Chase was acquitted of all charges. He kept his spot on the court, and he remained in that job until he died in 1811.

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Though the impeachment effort failed, historians believe thats a good thing, because it could have set a dangerous precedent for presidents and Congress to simply look to impeachment if they didnt approve of a sitting justice. It was seen as a win for judicial independence.

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But Thomas situation is pretty different from Chases. Thomas appears to have violated federal disclosure law when he failed to report his financial connections to Crow. Federal law states that the identity of the source, a brief description and the value of all gifts must be disclosed. Plus, there are the Judicial Conference filing rules, which require any gift over $415 to also be disclosed. ProPublicas investigations indicate that Thomas violated both laws on numerous occasions.

Yet despite these transgressions, experts dont think impeachment is on the table. Its an incredibly rare occurrenceafter all, out of more than 100 justices who have served on the court since it first convened in 1790, only one has been impeached.
Exactly five years ago, Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in one of the dumbest moves of his presidencythe dumbest when it comes to foreign policy.

This is not a partisan statement. Its also true that President Joe Bidens failure to reverse Trumps misstep ranks as the most puzzlingand may prove to be most catastrophicdecision in his term of office so far.

But Trumps move on May 8, 2018, set the stage for whatever disasters may come of it. By the time he pulled the plug, Iran was well on its way to dismantling its nuclear program. International inspectors, who were granted full access to suspect sites, said in all of their routine reports that Iran was in full compliance with the deals terms.

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Now the inspectors are gone, and Iran is closer to building an atom bomb than it ever has been.

Why did Trump abrogate the deal? First, he didnt much like arms-control agreements of any sort. Second, he particularly distrusted Iran, a view bolstered by his friendship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (ignoring the fact that most Israeli military and intelligence officers supported the deal). Finally, and perhaps most significantly: To Trumps mind, nothing Obama ever did could be touted as a success, so the Iran deala resounding success by all objective measureshad to be pummeled as (in Trumps oft-repeated words) the worst deal ever.

Its worth recounting here what the Iran nuclear dealformally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)did and did not do. Basically, it required Iran to dismantle almost all of its nuclear program; in exchange, the U.S. would lift almost all of its economic sanctions. In the main clauses, Iran had to:

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 Destroy all of its uranium enriched to 3.75 percent and limit further enriched uranium to 3.5 percent. (Weapons-grade uranium is enriched to 90 percent.)

 Cut its uranium stockpile by 90 percent (to 300 kilograms, not enough to build one A-bomb).

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 Destroy two-thirds of its centrifugesthe devices that enrich uraniumand refrain from building advanced models, which spin faster.

 Export the spent fuel from its research reactors, which could otherwise be reprocessed into plutonium.

 Stop all work on metallurgy related to the casings for uranium or plutonium bombs.

 Allow officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect all known and suspected nuclear sites with 24 hours notice.

The limits on uranium would expire in 10 years (by 2016) but those on centrifuges would last 20 years and IAEAs monitoring of uranium mines and mills would last 25 years.

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In exchange, the U.S. would lift sanctions, which it had imposed when Iran started developing its nuclear programbut it would not lift the sanctions that had been imposed as a penalty for producing ballistic missiles or for sponsoring terrorism.

When Trump pulled out, he reimposed all the economic sanctionsnot only on Iran but also on any country doing business with Iran. For nearly a year, Irans diplomats tried to find ways around the restrictionsas did several EU countries, though to no avail. (The Europeans werent willing to be barred from transactions in dollars for the sake of their paltry trade with Iran.)

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Meanwhile, Irans leaders continued to abide by the deals other termsthey continued to dismantle their nuclear program and to allow intrusive inspections. Finally, though, seeing no way to break through the sanctions, they resumed enriching uranium and, gradually, the other once-banned activities as well. They did so, citing Paragraph 36 of the JCPOA: If one signatory finds that others were not meeting their commitments, then, after consultations, it would have grounds to cease performing its commitments.

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Republicans complained that Iran was violating the nuclear deal. The irony was twofold. First, Iran was only reacting to Trumps abrogation of the deal, and doing so in a way that the deal allowed. Second, if the deal was as bad as the Republicans claimed it was, why did they see Irans violations as so egregious?

Then Biden won the White House. Having been Obamas vice president, Biden of course supported the accord, as did his top aides, some of whom had been deeply involved in the talks with Iran during Obamas administration. Many in Congress would have opposed a resumption, but the deal was a multinational executive arrangement, not a treaty, so Congress had no formal say in the matter. Another crucial fact: The Iranian leaders whod signed the dealPresident Hassan Rouhani and foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, both reformers, relatively speakingwere still in office. Elections, which would likely (and ultimately did) restore harder-line clerics to power, were scheduled for June. In the five months till then, Biden could have re-initialed the deal or at least reopened talks.

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True, around this time, Tehran was stiffening its resistance to resuming diplomacy. European officials tried to get the ball rolling again. Iranians refused to meet with any Americans directly. The EU offered to be an intermediary. Preliminary talks got underway in Vienna, but they soon broke down. The impasse was almost juvenile. Biden officials wanted Tehran to dismantle some of its nuclear program before they lifted some sanctions; Iranian officials wanted Biden to make the first move. A reasonable case could be made that Washington should go first. After all, the U.S., not Iran, had scrapped the deal; Biden was in the process of reversing several of Trumps executive orders. He could have done the same with JCPOA. But he didnt. Why didnt he?

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I have asked this question in many quarters over the past two years. So have several other reporters. I have neither heard nor read a persuasive answer. Some officials have said Bidens plate was full, as indeed it was, but he managed to extend New STARTthe U.S.-Russian nuclear arms reduction treaty, which Obama had signed in 2010 and which was about to expiretwo weeks after Inauguration Day. He could have at least reopened talks on JCPOA with nearly as little difficulty.

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It is now nearly impossible to get back on course with the Iran nuclear deal, and it has been for at least the past year. Tehrans leaders have decided its not worth trying to suck up to the U.S., and for good reasons. First, they see no reason to trust Washington; even if Biden were to act in good faith (and, from their point of view, he hasnt), his successor might not, especially if its Trump. Second, they have managed to strike alliances with other countries, notably Russia and China, whose leaders have also figured out ways to bypass U.S. sanctions.

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This is another lesson of Trumps great blunder. His withdrawal from the deal was part of a new policy called maximum pressure. As applied to Iran, the ideaencouraged by his then-new national security adviser and secretary of state, John Bolton and Mike Pompeowas that the renewed sanctions would have one of two effects. In public, they said they hoped to push Tehran back to the table to negotiate a better nuclear deal. In fact, though, they knew there was no better deal to be had; their real motive was to devastate Irans economy so harshly that the people (or some faction of the elite) would rise up and oust the regime.

It didnt work. Though its economy is far from robust, Iran is now exporting as much oil as it did just before Trump pulled out of the deal. It is on the verge of becoming a nuclear-armed power, if its rulers want it to be. And if they do, it will be Trumps fault for pushing them over the ledgeand, to some degree, Bidens for not doing enough to pull them back.
Folks! The 2024 presidential election is getting closer every day (quite literally). The race seems likely to come down to President Joe Biden vs. former president Donald Trumpbut, hey, anything could happen, and there are other candidates throwing their hats into the ring.

If youre having a hard time keeping track of whos in, whos out, and who is doing campaign trips to Staten Island and Europe but is still on the fence, weve got you covered. Well keep this post updated as things develop.

The Front-Runners

Joe Biden (D)

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The current big guy in office is running for another term, seemingly on the rousing slogan of Lets finish the job. Biden is the oldest president in U.S. historyhes currently 80and is pretty tired of defending his age. Call me old? I call it being seasoned. You say Im ancient? I say Im wise, he joked during his speech at the annual White House Correspondents Dinner. Biden is facing an enthusiasm gap, which is currently manifesting in better early polling numbers for some of his fringe challengers, but in a potential Biden vs. Trump matchup, the president leads in polls by 1.4 percentage points on average.

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Donald Trump (R)

At 76 years old, Trump is currently the front-runner for the 2024 Republican nomination, despite the fact that he was recently indicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree by the state of New York, is facing countless other lawsuits, incited a violent insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and has actively hurt his partys chances of winning in the last two elections. No matter! Trumps recent indictment in New York resulted in a massive windfall for his campaign, which raked in $15.4 million in the two weeks after charges were filed.

The Challengers

Nikki Haley (R)

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The 51-year-old former governor of South Carolina was the first Republican to announce her candidacy after Trump, setting the stage for a showdown of one kind or another with her former boss. (Trump appointed Haley to the role of ambassador to the United Nations under his administration in 2017; she resigned by 2018.) Haleys big rallying cry so far is that lawmakers over the age of 75 should be subject to mental competency tests. Its a clever position in that it helps Haley critique both the Republican and Democratic front-runners. (Trumps rejoinder was to call for competency tests for all candidates, regardless of age.)

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (D)

A fringe candidate in part because he promotes misinformation about vaccines and conspiracy theories about Anthony Fauci, this political scion announced his presidential intentions in Boston (though he lives in California), presumably to capitalize on Northeast associations with the famous Kennedy name. The rest of the Kennedy family is not particularly happy about this; his brother Chris Kennedy told CNN that due to a wide range of Bobbys positions, Im supporting President Biden. Still, Kennedy is seeing significant support in several recent presidential pollsan indicator, if there ever was one, of limited confidence in the standard-bearer.

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Asa Hutchinson (R)

Hutchinson is a two-term governor of Arkansas who has been a consistent critic of Trump, but he is no moderate alternative. He signed an abortion ban for his state that includes no exceptions, has pushed for the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, and spearheaded an effort for the NRA against any semblance of gun control in the aftermath of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

Vivek Ramaswamy (R)

This 37-year-old multimillionaire entrepreneur and author has made his name criticizing the woke left, while arguing that faith, patriotism, and hard work have disappeared, only to be replaced by new secular religions like Covidism, climatism, and gender ideology. Hes a regular on Fox News, saying at one point on the air that the Department of Education has no reason for existence.

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Marianne Williamson (D)

After running for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, this 70-year-old self-help author is going for round two. Her rhetoric is progressive; her presence, a potential spoiler. Back in her first run, Republican operatives encouraged conservatives to donate to her campaign so she would remain eligible for debates and distract from the other Democratic candidates running. This time around, the strategy appears to be attracting people through TikTok. Her videos, where she talks about universal health care, gun control, and abortion rights, have gotten over 11 million views.

Larry Elder (R)

You might remember Elder from Californias 2021 recall election: He earned the most votes out of all the candidates running against Gov. Gavin Newsom, but still ultimately lost the race. He made a name for himself as a conservative talk-radio host, and is also a former practicing attorney. Throughout his career, hes earned a problematic reputation of making disparaging comments about women. In a 1996 ad for his radio show, he said women exaggerate the problem of sexism. And, in a 2000 column, he wrote that women know less than men about political issues, economics and current events.

The Not-Quite-There-Yets

Ron DeSantis (R)

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Governor of Florida and national Disney-antagonist-in-chief DeSantis has not formally announced his candidacy for president. Which is confusing because for months now hes been acting like hes on a national campaign, making stops in Iowa, Washington, D.C., Staten Island, and abroad, including in Israel and Japan. Though DeSantis is widely considered to be Trumps biggest threat, and is polling around the 20th percentile, his not-yet-formalized presidential campaign has already hit some snags, with at least seven Florida lawmakers handing their endorsements to Trump. Also, Disney is suing him for retaliation, and he allegedly is struggling with social etiquette.

Mike Pence (R)

The former Republican vice president has not formally announced his 2024 candidacy for president either, but he has been soft-launching it for years. After he left the vice presidency in 2020, he published a memoir where he defended his actions on Jan. 6, 2021, while still trying to cast Trump as a friend. But hes also been testifying against Trump, sitting before a grand jury for the investigation into Trumps efforts to subvert the 2020 election results being run by the Department of Justiceappointed special counsel Jack Smith.

Tim Scott (R)

Scott has also not announced his 2024 candidacy yet, but in April he launched an exploratory committee for a potential run. Now hes expected to officially enter the race at the end of May. The 57-year-old is currently a senator from South Carolina and was chosen to deliver the GOP response to Bidens State of the Union address in 2021. He has essentially already started campaigning, making stops in Iowa and New Hampshire.
This story was originally published by Grist and has been republished here as part of the Climate Desk collaboration. Sign up for Grists weekly newsletter.

Editors note: Since this story was published by Grist, Microsoft has officially affirmed its support for a right-to-repair bill in Washington state.

In March, Irene Plenefisch, a senior director of government affairs at Microsoft, sent an email to the eight members of the Washington State Senates Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee, which was about to hold a hearing to discuss a bill intended to facilitate the repair of consumer electronics.

Typically, when consumer tech companies reach out to lawmakers concerning right-to-repair billswhich seek to make it easier for people to fix their devices, thus saving money and reducing electronic wasteits because they want them killed. Plenefisch, however, wanted the committee to know that Microsoft, which is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, was on board with this one, which had already passed the Washington House.

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I am writing to state Microsofts support for E2SHB 1392, also known as the Fair Repair Act, Plenefisch wrote in an email to the committee. This bill fairly balances the interests of manufacturers, customers, and independent repair shops and in doing so will provide more options for consumer device repair.

The Fair Repair Act stalled out a week later due to opposition from all three Republicans on the committee and Sen. Lisa Wellman, a Democrat and former Apple executive. (Apple frequently lobbies against right-to-repair bills, and during a hearing, Wellman defended the iPhone makers position that it is already doing enough on repair.) But despite the bills failure to launch this year, repair advocates say Microsofts supporta notable first for a major U.S. tech companyis bringing other manufacturers to the table to negotiate the details of other right-to-repair bills for the first time.

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We are in the middle of more conversations with manufacturers being way more cooperative than before, said Nathan Proctor, who heads the U.S. Public Research Interest Groups right-to-repair campaign. And I think Microsofts leadership and willingness to be first created that opportunity.

Across a wide range of sectors, from consumer electronics to farm equipment, many manufacturers attempt to monopolize repair of their devices by restricting access to spare parts, repair tools, and technical documentation. While manufacturers often claim that controlling the repair process limits risks to cybersecurity and safety, they also financially benefit when consumers are forced to take their devices back to the manufacturer or upgrade due to limited repair options.

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Right-to-repair bills would compel manufactures to make spare parts and information available to everyone. Proponents argue that making repair more accessible will allow consumers to use older products for longer, saving them money and reducing the environmental impact of technology, including both electronic waste and the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new products.

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But despite dozens of state legislatures taking up right-to-repair bills in recent years, very few of those bills have passed due to staunch opposition from device makers and the trade associations representing them. New York state passed the first electronics right-to-repair law in the country last year, but before the governor signed it, tech lobbyists convinced her to water it down through a series of revisions.

Like other consumer tech giants, Microsoft has historically fought right-to-repair bills while restricting access to spare parts, tools, and repair documentation to its network of authorized repair partners. In 2019, the company even helped kill a repair bill in Washington state. But in recent years, the company has started changing its tune on the issue. In 2021, following pressure from shareholders, Microsoft agreed to take steps to facilitate the repair of its devicesa first for a U.S. company. Microsoft followed through on the agreement by expanding access to spare parts and service tools, including through a partnership with the repair guide site iFixit. The tech giant also commissioned a study that found that repairing Microsoft products instead of replacing them can dramatically reduce both waste and carbon emissions.

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Microsoft has also started engaging more cooperatively with lawmakers over right-to-repair bills. In late 2021 and 2022, the company met with legislators in both Washington and New York to discuss each states respective right-to-repair bill. In both cases, lawmakers and advocates involved in the bill negotiations described the meetings as productive. When the Washington State House introduced an electronics right-to-repair bill in January 2022, Microsofts official position on it was neutralsomething that state representative and bill sponsor Mia Gregerson, a Democrat, called a really big step forward at a committee hearing.

Despite Microsofts neutrality, last years right-to-repair bill failed to pass the House amid opposition from groups like the Consumer Technology Association, a trade association representing numerous electronics manufacturers. Later that year, though, the right-to-repair movement scored some big wins. In June 2022, Colorados governor signed the nations first right-to-repair law focused on wheelchairs. The very next day, New Yorks Legislature passed the bill that would later become the nations first electronics right-to-repair law.

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When Washington lawmakers revived their right-to-repair bill for the 2023 legislative cycle, Microsoft once again came to the negotiating table. From state senator and bill sponsor Joe Nguyens perspective, Microsofts view was, We see this coming. Wed rather be part of the conversation than outside. And we want to make sure it is done in a thoughtful way.

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Proctor, whose organization was also involved in negotiating the Washington bill, said that Microsoft had a few specific requests, including that the bill require repair shops to possess a third-party technical certification and carry insurance. It was also important to Microsoft that the bill only cover products manufactured after the bills implementation date, and that manufacturers be required to provide the public only the same parts and documents that their authorized repair providers already receive. Some of the companys requests, Proctor said, were tough for advocates to concede on. But we did, because we thought what they were doing was in good faith.

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In early March, just before the Fair Repair Act was put to a vote in the House, Microsoft decided to support it. Microsoft has consistently supported expanding safe, reliable, and sustainable options for consumer device repair, Plenefisch told Grist in an emailed statement. We have, in the past, opposed specific pieces of legislation that did not fairly balance the interests of manufacturers, customers, and independent repair shops in achieving this goal. HB 1392, as considered on the House floor, achieved this balance.

While the bill cleared the House by a vote of 58 to 38, it faced an uphill battle in the Senate, where either Wellman or one of the bills Republican opponents on the Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee would have had to change their mind for the Fair Repair Act to move forward. Microsoft representatives held meetings with several legislators, Plenefisch said, to urge support for HB 1392.

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Thats probably the first time any major company has been like, This is not bad,  Nguyen said. It certainly helped shift the tone.

Microsofts engagement appears to have shifted the tone beyond Washington state as well. As other manufacturers became aware that the company was sitting down with lawmakers and repair advocates, they realized they couldnt just ignore us, Proctor said. His organization has since held meetings about proposed right-to-repair legislation in Minnesota with the Consumer Technology Association and TechNet, two large trade associations that frequently lobby against right-to-repair bills and rarely sit down with advocates.

A lot of conversations have been quite productive around the Minnesota bill, Proctor said. TechNet declined to comment on negotiations regarding the Minnesota right-to-repair bill, or whether Microsofts support for a bill in Washington has impacted its engagement strategy. The Consumer Technology Association shared letters it sent to legislators outlining its reasons for opposing the bills in Washington and Minnesota, but it also declined to comment on specific meetings or on Microsoft.

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While Minnesotas right-to-repair bill is still making its way through committees in the House and Senate, in Washington state, the Fair Repair Acts opponents were ultimately unmoved by Microsofts support. Sen. Drew MacEwen, one of the Republicans on the Energy, Environment, and Technology Committee who opposed the bill, said that Microsoft called his office to tell him the company supported the Fair Repair Act. I asked why after years of opposition, and they said it was based on customer feedback, MacEwen told Grist. But that wasnt enough to convince MacEwenwho sees device repairability as a business choiceto vote yes. Ultimately, I do believe there is a compromise path that can be reached but will take a lot more work, MacEwen said.

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Washington bill sponsor Rep. Gregerson wonders if Microsoft could have had a greater impact by testifying publicly in support of the bill. While Gregerson credits the company with helping right-to-repair get further than ever in her state this year, Microsofts support was entirely behind the scenes. They did a lot of meetings, Gregerson said. But if youre going to be first in the nation on this, youve got to do more.

Microsoft declined to say why it didnt testify in support of the Fair Repair Act, or whether that was a mistake. The company also didnt say whether it would support future iterations of the Washington state bill, or other state right-to-repair bills.

But it signaled to Grist that it might. And in doing so, Microsoft appears to have taken its next small step out of the shadows. We encourage all lawmakers considering right to repair legislation to look at HB 1392 as a model going forward due to its balanced approach, Plenefisch said.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
A 47-year-old Houston man, Scott Jackson Davis, has been sentenced to 102 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release for a $3 million PPP loan fraud scheme. U.S. District Judge David Hittner also ordered Davis to pay restitution of $3,002,655.13. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and due diligence among small business owners when applying for financial assistance programs.

In 2020, Davis fraudulently received $3.3 million in PPP funds through three fraudulent loan applications submitted to multiple financial institutions. He fabricated ownership of three businesses  Skilled Trade Investments LP, Skilled Trade Staffing LLC, and Skilled Trade Investments Group  claiming they had numerous employees and significant payroll. In reality, the businesses had few, if any, employees and little to no payroll. Davis used forged IRS documentation to support the inflated business expenses.

Davis also lied on the PPP applications, stating that he had never been convicted of a felony. However, he was a prior felon on supervised release for an unrelated 2017 wire fraud conviction. Davis spent a large portion of the fraudulently acquired PPP loan funds on private jet travel, real estate, jewelry, guns, and luxury vehicles.

This case serves as a reminder for small business owners to be cautious when applying for financial assistance programs and to ensure that the information provided in their applications is accurate and truthful. It is crucial for businesses to conduct proper due diligence and to be aware of potential fraud schemes that could impact their financial well-being and reputation.

The FBI and Small Business Administration  Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Wakefield and Trial Attorney Edward Emokpae of the Criminal Divisions Fraud Section prosecuted the case.

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One of the most talked about issues with people changing jobs or selling their companies is the necessity and validity of non-compete agreements. This employment law varies by state with California being the strictest against people signing them. Are they and should they be legal is something that the FTC is discussing and their decision could affect 30 million people.

On the Small Business Radio Show this week, I talked with Frank Cullen who is executive director of the Council for Innovation Promotion. This organization is a bipartisan coalition dedicated to promoting strong and effective intellectual property rights that drive innovation, boost economic competitiveness, and improve lives everywhere.

This is what Frank and I discussed:

The history of non-compete agreements goes back 500 years in America and is ingrained in American business.

The question of whether these agreements are good or bad for business? Frank states that noncompete agreements are signed by approximately 80% of high-level executives so to outright ban them would impact these companies tremendously.

Are there any advantages to these agreements for the people that sign them? How do you balance a non-compete with peoples right to work? Can a company prevent a former employee working for a competitor if they are not using their former employers intellectual property? Frank states that some employees can negotiate higher compensation or severance when signing these agreements.

Frank discusses how non-competes do not need to be banned since there are current legal precedents that protect against over-reaching agreements already. For example, agreements that extend over a few years or are too broad can be invalidated by the courts.

Frank emphasizes that noncompete agreements prevent trade secret theft and thereby protect American innovation in vital sectors like technology and engineering. He gives examples of how noncompete agreements have prevented trade secret theft in the past.

Listen to the entire interview with Frank Cullen on non-compete agreements on The Small Business Radio Show.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  Over 1,000 workers rescued in an operation at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga last week were told by their employer to "lure" victims to invest in cryptocurrency, the Department of Justice said on Monday.

Authorities rescued the trafficked workers on May 4  129 of them were Filipinos, the rest were foreign nationals from China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

A statement from the Philippine National Police said the victims would remain in the country while papers for their return to their respective countries are being processed.

"Preliminary evidence indicate that the victims were recruited as call center agents to entice foreign customers from the United States, Canada, and Europe to invest in cryptocurrency. The victims, mostly male, were instructed to pretend to be attractive women to lure their victims to invest," said the DOJ.

Various government agencies and the local government of Mabalacat City are now assisting the victims. The Bureau of Immigration is likewise processing and assisting the foreign nationals.

"Considering the significant number of rescued foreign nationals, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is coordinating with the different embassies to supplement the assistance we can provide and to expedite victim repatriation," added the DOJ.

About a dozen individuals were initially identified as traffickers and have been brought to the DOJ in Manila for inquest proceedings.

"The identified traffickers were assisted by PAO Manila and executed a waiver of their rights under Article 125 of the Revised Penal Code, through the duly certified interpreters from the Chinese and Indonesian Embassy," the DOJ said.

The hearing is set for May 15 to allow respondents to file their counter affidavits. The alleged traffickers are in the custody of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group.
The South Florida LGBT charitable community is mourning the loss of one of its biggest advocates.

Jim Stepp, who spent his life giving back to causes advancing the rights of LGBT people, died May 4 at 85.

His husband, Peter Zimmer, shared that Stepp died while in hospice at Holy Cross Hospital after a short illness. There will be no funeral, no memorial, and no flowers, he said in the announcement  he only asked that loved ones donate to their favorite LGBT charity.

For David Jobin, the president and CEO of the Our Fund Foundation, the announcement was exactly what he would expect from the couple  Understated. Modest. Thoughtful. Jim and Peter are the best of humanity.

Stepp was a founding board member of the Our Fund Foundation in Wilton Manors, an organization that since 2010 has supported philanthropy giving to LGBT organizations locally and across the country. Each year, it gives more than $1,500,000 to nonprofit agencies. In honor of the late Norm Kent, the co-founder of SFGN, the organization founded a journalism fund.

In February 2019, Stepp and Zimmer were the inaugural recipients of the Raising the Bar Award, also known as the South Florida LGBTQ Philanthropist of the Year, hosted by the Our Fund Foundation. Jobin told SFGN that it was obvious that the couple should win the award, but he also knew they would be too humble to accept it. It took a little convincing that they were the right people to set the standard for the award for years to come.

Theyre just the most modest, unassuming men in the world, he said. I worked so hard to convince them  Theyre that important to the community and they did it with such grace and dignity and modesty. He will be missed so much. But Peter will carry on that legacy; Peter is a force as well.

The couple also donated to the Florida AIDS Walk, and in 2011 made a donation from their trust to Stonewall National Museum & Archives. The two were also Platinum Level members of the Pride Centers Founders Circle and Equality Floridas Legacy of Equality Society. But Stepp and Zimmers days of philanthropy stretched beyond his days in South Florida. While living in New York City, they were also early supporters of SAGE and Lambda Legal.

They have had an impact on LGBTQ lives for decades, Scott Bennett, board chair for the Our Fund Foundation, said in a statement.

Jobin added, Jims quick smile along with his quiet Oklahoman steadfastness will be sorely missed by all who knew him and loved him.
The military missed its 2022 recruiting goals by 15,000 soldiers  the worst number since the draft ended in 1973  and the Florida legislature knows what is to blame.

On May 1, Tallahassee voted to send a memorial to the U.S. Congress, citing the U.S. militarys overemphasizing and relying on diversity and inclusion for its drop in world dominance. Introduced by Florida Sen. Jay Collins (R), SM 1382 passed 84-24 in the House and 34-5 in the Senate.

Rep. Tommy Gregory, who is an Air Force veteran, said that in talking to his friends and family in the military, Its complaint after complaint of how distracted they are trying to respond to these political ideologies, this overactive political activism inside the military and its breaking their morale.

He added, The aircraft doesnt respond differently because you identify as straight. The snipers rifle doesnt care what your race is. It just cares how proficient you are with the weapon.

The memorial calls on Congress to stop such woke social engineering and experimentation practices, which are eroding military effectiveness, and to mandate a return to merit-based system for military force development and composition. The bill says that these policies have led to those with the necessary warrior ethos currently serving in the United States military are more likely to leave service.

A memorial is akin to a resolution passed by commissioners in city hall  it is not law, but rather sends a message on behalf of the legislature to a larger governing body and is not subject to veto by the governor. In this case, the memorial is being sent to the U.S. Congress.

The memorial cited four examples of ways the military has lost its prowess on the world stage:

Overemphasizing and relying on diversity and inclusion, specifically gender, gender identity, race and sexual preference.

Mandatory and nonsensical unconscious bias training for both military and civilian personnel

Mandatory COVID-19 vaccines and denying almost all religious exemptions

Mandatory training in the U.S. Air Force Academy to use gender neutral language (an example, saying parent or caregiver instead of mother or father)

In opposition to the memorial, Florida Rep. Michele K. Rayner-Goolsby (D) said she feared the memorial was actually politicizing the goal in making sure that there is a positive climate and culture in the military.

Florida Rep. Ashley Viola Gantt (D) added that the memorial goes against the lived experiences of underrepresented groups in the military, including her brother, who served in the Marines for two decades. She shared that he was first called the n word during his time in the Marines and was called other racial slurs during his service.

Does that deter from his love of the Marine Corps and his devotion? No, but its a very real lived experience, she said.

Those in favor of the military repeated that skill level should trump the militarys desire to check boxes and that servicemembers dont care about someones race or sexual orientation.

Florida Rep. Jeff Holcomb (R), a Navy veteran, was the last speaker during the debate.

I just cant let our military be labeled as racist and discrimination without a response. ISIS, the Taliban and al-Qaeda, those are the folks that discriminate, he said. We bombed a building in 2017 like we never usually do. We bombed it because they threw homosexuals off that building. Our terrorist enemies hate homosexuals more than we do. Theyre the ones who discriminate.
Theres a growing amount of insecurity and uncertainty in the LGBT community about the future and safety.

New laws from the GOP dominated legislature in Tallahassee could have a chilling effect on home rule in cities like Wilton Manors.

On May 8 at 7 p.m., Island City Stage is hosting HotSpots! Hot Topics: What Is Safety? Jasmine Rogers and Jameer Baptiste will host the event on LGBT safety. The panel will include WMPD Chief Gary Blocker, Asst. Chief Darren Brodsky, Wilton Manors City Commissioner Chris Caputo, trans activist and business owner Carvelle Estriplet, World AIDS Museum Executive Director Terry Dyer, and Equality Floridas Mary Eakins-Durand.

This event is important to continue having conversations in a community that has supported the HIV epidemic, Dyer said. WAM will always support diversity and inclusivity. The more we can create safe space to humanize LGBTQ+, drag, trans, black and brown, the stronger we will be as a community.

Watch the video for more details.
The flats are rented for a few dozen euros.

Rental flats in this building on Obchodna Street in Bratislava have been a matter of dispute for 30 years. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco)

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In Slovakia, there is a rental home market that housing policy experts refer to as a grey zone.

These are flats built under the communist regime, and in the 1990s tenants entered into leases for an indefinite period, but unlike the vast majority of people, they did not buy them.

The flats are officially owned by municipalities, but the contracts practically cannot be cancelled. The Civil Code even allows for children of the renters to continue the contracts when their parents die.

In addition, the rent in the flats is regulated and its amount has not changed for 15 years, so in today's terms it is rather symbolic.

Towns lose out on this, because the low rent does not cover the costs of flat maintenance. Even the tenants partially lose, because the former do not want to invest in the flats. These homes are often in poor condition due to age.

There are thousands of them, no one knowing the exact number. Even the last population census did not give a clear answer.

For example, out of all the rental flats in Bratislava about 10 percent are under indefinite contracts. In particular, the Stare Mesto district has 141 rental flats and up to 77 for an indefinite period.

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Related article Which Bratislava areas will increase in worth, according to real estate agents Read more

"It's a tragedy because the rental market has become, in a way, the ownership market," says Elena Szolgayova, a UN housing expert and formerly headed the housing section at the Transport Ministry.

Officially, these flats were for sale until 2016. Their price was regulated and cost only a few thousand Slovak crowns, or a few hundred euros.

The vast majority were indeed sold, but a small number remained under the ownership of towns for various reasons.

According to Szolgayova, sometimes people really did not have even such small amount of money, but speculations could have also been behind it. The tenants can use the flats during their life and pay less. It is an open secret that some people even rent these flats for commercial prices.
Both countries have struggled to deal with rising human-animal encounters.

A bear whose image was captured by a trail camera in the Mala Fatra mountains. (Source: Jan Kroslak, SME)

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Italy is taking an interest in Slovakia's approach to dealing with wayward bears. Direct assistance could soon follow.

Since 2014, the State Protection of Nature (SOPSR) agency has operated a Brown Bear Intervention Team in three regions to prevent wild bears from crossing paths with locals, tourists and farmers. This summer, representatives from Italy plan to meet up with their Slovak counterparts to share experience.

Italian representatives asked us for help with the interpretation of European legislation covering care for protected animals. They also requested practical advice on how to proceed in specific situations," said Juraj Smatana of SOPSR, in comments to regional media.

The intervention team stresses the need to monitor bears' movements and behaviour, and to raise popular awareness in order to prevent bear encounters. The Slovak team focuses in particular on animals that have lost their shyness and started to approach human settlements. The team has already disscussed some of these topics in a conference call with their counterparrts from the Italian region of Trentino - Alto Adige.

Slovakia is struggling to handle a rise in bear encounters. There have been several cases of bears attacking tourists, including on a hiking trail in the Low Tatras and in the Polana sub-region. These prompted calls to urgently address the so-called "bear problem".

Italy has had its own deadly bear encounter case. Back in April 2022, a bear attacked a local runner on a forest path, causing fatal injuries. After the case, the local administration set out to cull at least three bears that were exhibiting problematic behaviour  a move that was met with criticism from ecologists, who argued that it was the first bear-related encounter in Italy that had ever resulted in a death.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/ai-could-pose-more-urgent-threat-than-climate-change-pioneer-says-1110205651.html

AI Could Pose 'More Urgent' Threat Than Climate Change, Pioneer Says

AI Could Pose 'More Urgent' Threat Than Climate Change, Pioneer Says

AI Pioneer Geoffrey Hinton says that a hyper-intelligent AI maybe a more urgent threat to humanity than even climate change.

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AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton recently admitted that artificial intelligence may pose a more urgent threat than climate change, urging the world to take the technology's effect on the public more seriously.Hinton, who recently quit Googles parent company Alphabet after a decade with the company, said during an exclusive interview with Reuters on Friday that while climate change is a big threat to humanity, AI could be more pressing than even that.Tech and thought leaders the world over have been warning that if and when AI becomes smarter than humans, it could have disastrous consequences. Humans have long thought of themselves as the smartest organism on the planet, which has allowed us to dominate the planet in a way no other species has before. But experts wonder what will happen when we are usurped in that category with AI. There is no way to know what the desires, motivations and tactics such an entity would have and use.In 1986, Hinton co-authored a research paper, titled Learning Representations by Back-Propagating Errors, where he laid out principles essential to modern-day machine learning neural networks. In 2018, he received the Turing Award for his research, the most prestigious award in computer science and computing machinery.Hinton joins a growing number of thought and technology leaders who are warning about the potential dangers of a hyper-intelligent AI. In April, thousands of people including Stability AI CEO Emad Mostaque, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and AI pioneers Yoshua Hengio and Stuart Russell, signed a letter calling for a six-month pause on the development of more powerful AI systems.Notably, Hinton was not a signatory on the letter. While he shares their fears about the potential risks of AI, he does not think a pause is realistic in the evermore competitive world of AI.Meanwhile, the European Union has called for a global summit discussing AI. Last week, US Vice President Kamala Harris, who had just been named the AI czar in the Biden administration, held talks with AI company leaders, including Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.However, companies like Microsoft and Alphabet are not the only entities pushing progress in AI. Last week, a leaked document from a Google engineer showed that some in the company are worried open-source technologies would soon surpass Alphabet and Microsofts efforts.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/berlin-keeping-ties-with-paris-challenging-but-similar-to-preserving-good-marriage-1110204941.html

Berlin: Keeping Ties With Paris 'Challenging' But Similar to Preserving Good Marriage

Berlin: Keeping Ties With Paris 'Challenging' But Similar to Preserving Good Marriage

Keeping good relations with Paris is a challenge akin to preserving a good marriage, German government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit said on Monday.

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world

germany

france

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olaf scholz

annalena baerbock

europe

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Hebestreit pointed out that he does not share the view that Berlin and Paris are not living through the best of times in terms of bilateral relations, as one of the reporters put it. The spokesman compared the relations between France and Germany to a good marriage that needs fresh impetus time and again.The German official also said that Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock will pay a visit to Paris next Tuesday and will take part in a mountain hike with her French counterpart, Catherine Colonna, in near future. French and German media reported in late 2022 that the relations between Berlin and Paris were at their lowest point, the most controversial topics being the natural gas price cap, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's unwillingness to support Macron's vision for European sovereignty and common defense, as well as Macron's separate negotiations on construction of the Barcelona to Marseilles green hydrogen pipeline.A bilateral minister councils meeting was canceled in October due to the rumors related to the pipeline. Hebestreit said that the participants needed more time to agree on a number of topics in the field of energy and defense.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230308/europes-energy-crisis-not-over-may-get-worse-says-energy-investment-banker-1108162909.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/canada-expels-chinese-diplomat-over-allegations-of-foreign-interference-1110203153.html

Canada Expels Chinese Diplomat Over Allegations of 'Foreign Interference'

Canada Expels Chinese Diplomat Over Allegations of 'Foreign Interference'

Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei was declared persona non grata by Canadian Foreign Ministry over allegations of "foreign interference."

2023-05-08T19:30+0000

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canada

expulsion

diplomat

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Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei was declared persona non grata by the Canadian Foreign Ministry on Monday following allegations of "foreign interference."The announcement was issued by Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Melanie Joly, who noted in a release that the decision had been made "after careful consideration of all factors at play.""We remain firm in our resolve that defending our democracy is of the utmost importance," the notice concluded.Shortly after the move was announcement, the Chinese embassy in Canada blasted the Canadian Foreign Ministry's determination and vowed that a response would soon follow."The Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom shall be borne by the Canadian side," the statement added, urging Ottawa against further bruising Chinese-Canadian ties.The Monday development came days after reports detailed that Chinese ambassador Cong Peiwu had been summoned by the Canadian foreign minister over alleged attempts by Chinese officials to interfere in Canada's domestic matters.It was reported at the time that conservative Canadian lawmaker Michael Chong - including his family in Hong Kong - had been targeted as part of a harassment effort after he'd been critical of the Chinese government.Zhao specifically came under the spotlight last week after a report by Canadian media cited intelligence assessments from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, and claimed the official had been tied to the alleged harassment campaign.Canadian media earlier reported that Joly and her advisers initially held off on taking action over concerns that Beijing might react with retaliatory measures, similar to the events that took place after Canadian authorities arrested Huawei executive Meng Wangzhou.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230323/canadas-trudeau-reportedly-pitched-quad-inspired-anti-china-bloc-with-japan-south-korea--us-1108737029.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/he-wants-his-freedom-tucker-carlson-reportedly-readies-for-quiet-war-on-fox-news-1110189774.html

He Wants His Freedom: Tucker Carlson Reportedly Readies For Quiet War on Fox News

He Wants His Freedom: Tucker Carlson Reportedly Readies For Quiet War on Fox News

Carlson was suddenly fired from Fox News last month after having worked 14 years at the network, with no explanation given as to why the company decided to part ways with its most-watched host.

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americas

us

tucker carlson

fox news

host

media

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clashes in ferguson after grand jury verdict

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Fired Fox News host Tucker Carlson is preparing for a crackdown on his former network as he mulls making his next career move, a US media outlet has cited unnamed sources as saying.Now, we're going from peace time to Defcon [defense condition] 1. His [Carlsons] team is preparing for war. He wants his freedom, one of the insiders argued.The US media outlet recalled in this regard that Carlson's contract at Fox News, in which he was paid $20 million a year, expires in January 2025. He is still being paid and therefore is prohibited from joining a rival network or starting his own.In addition, the outlet reported, the ex-Fox anchor is considering building a direct-to-consumer media outlet where his millions of fans could pay to watch him.Carlsons attorney Bryan Freedman, for his part, told the outlet that the idea that anyone is going to silence Tucker and prevent him from speaking to his audience is beyond preposterous."This comes after Fox News surprise announcement on April 24 that the company and Carlson had agreed to part ways despite the fact that he hosted the network's top-rated program. Reports suggest Carlson was let go due to his coverage of controversial topics - ranging from the January 6, 2021 US Capitol breach to the COVID-19 measures to the White House support for Kiev in the Ukraine conflict, while others insist that Carlson was fired for his criticism of Fox News' senior management.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230505/fox-demands-halt-to-release-of-leaked-tucker-carlson-clips-1110129079.html

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tucker carlson, former fox news host, fire fox news anchor tucker carlson, tucker carlson's reported readiness for 'quiet war' on fox news
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/iran-willing-to-provide-advanced-defense-weapons-to-syria-1110202903.html

Iran Willing to Provide Advanced Defense Weapons to Syria

Iran Willing to Provide Advanced Defense Weapons to Syria

Iran is willing to provide its most advanced defense weapons to Syria to boost security, Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad-Reza Ashtiani said on Monday.

2023-05-08T18:28+0000

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2023-05-08T18:28+0000

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syria

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Ashtiani emphasized that Iran was ready to cooperate with Syria on building plants and launching production of strategic defense weapons to create multipurpose defense infrastructure, strengthen the republic's military capabilities and boost the security of the Syrian people.At the same time, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Mohammad Bagheri said that Iran was also prepared to share its vast experience in countering terrorism and conducting modern warfare with the Sultanate of Oman.On Monday, Bagheri met with Oman's Deputy Prime Minister for Defense Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik al Said in Oman. During the meeting, the Iranian official noted the strengthening of the ties between the two countries and offered Tehran's help in fighting maritime drug trafficking. Bagheri also reportedly invited Omani military officials to visit Iran.On Sunday, foreign ministers of the League of Arab States announced that Syria was returning to the organization.The 22-nation Arab League suspended Syria's membership in 2011 after a war broke out in the country. Several member states then recalled their ambassadors from Syria in protest against Syrian President Bashar Assad's policies, accusing his government of cracking down on demonstrators in the country. Years later, some of the nations have begun taking steps to reengage with Damascus and reopen embassies.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230430/syrian-arab-foreign-ministers-to-meet-on-may-1-in-amman-to-discuss-syrias-return-to-las-1109981654.html

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U.S. military spending hampers resolution of humanitarian, environmental problems -- Turkish intellectuals

Xinhua) 11:26, May 08, 2023

The Capitol and a stop sign are seen in Washington D.C., the United States, on Feb. 13, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Turkish observers believe that the U.S. growing military spending hampers efforts to tackle humanitarian and environmental problems, blaming the United States for urging other countries to arm themselves.

ISTANBUL, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Many Turkish intellectuals believe that the U.S. growing military spending hampers efforts to tackle humanitarian and environmental problems.

According to statistics from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, a Stockholm-based think tank, U.S. military spending accounted for 39 percent of total global military spending in 2022, and the country's defense budget hits 858 billion U.S. dollars in 2023.

"The U.S. spends this huge budget on armament and the arms industry rather than on education, health, infrastructure, public works, transportation, social security, and nutrition for children," Baris Doster, a scholar with the Istanbul-based Marmara University, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"This is about the imperialist character of the United States. It means the country can survive -- economically, politically, industrially, and diplomatically -- only with wars."

The scholar also blamed the United States for urging other countries, including NATO members, to arm themselves.

Photo taken on April 6, 2022 shows a sculpture and flags at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

"The example of Ukraine, which we all know very well, is in plain sight," he said, adding that the United States deployed arms and heavy armored vehicles to the country. "The U.S. is besieging Russia from its close circle, almost by pushing Ukraine to the front and asking for a continuous prolongation of the war."

Doster also emphasized the U.S. arms industry's growing influence and role in the country's economy.

Eser Keskin, a journalist covering international relations, said the United States should allocate its military budget to humanitarian and environmental issues.

"Many countries, especially in Africa, are currently experiencing vital problems. At this point, the budget allocated to military expenditures should be spent on making investments in these countries," Keskin told Xinhua. "The military budget can also be devoted to discovering renewable energy sources and finding other resources to replace oil and plastic," she added.

Photo taken on Feb. 19, 2020 shows the Pentagon seen from an airplane over Washington D.C., the United States. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Echoing Keskin, Mehmet Emre Ozturk, another journalist, urged the United States to bring climate and environmental issues to the fore and invest in the field.

"Climate and environmental problems have come to the level where they can create crises and chaos on an enormous scale," Ozturk told Xinhua.

Ozturk also believes that there are still countries with underdeveloped infrastructures needing help in meeting their daily needs.

"These military expenditures can be fully used for the development of humanity by providing infrastructure projects to achieve a better life, reach prosperous societies and a global peace environment," Ozturk said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  The possible joint patrols to be conducted by the Philippines with the United States and Australia in the South China Sea may happen by the third quarter of 2023, Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said on Monday.

We are already continuing discussions on this joint patrol with the United States and I think Australia also is to be coming in. A guesstimate would be no later than the third quarter of this year we should have that in place, he told CNN Philippines The Source.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden said in a recent statement that they are looking forward to the trilateral cooperation with other countries, like Australia, to ensure regional security.

The leaders welcome cooperation with partners that share the United States and the Philippines commitment to international law and mutual respect, the statement read.

In February, Australia confirmed it is holding talks on possible joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea, a part of the South China Sea that China claims.

Australia was among the nations that supported the Philippines following the incident early this year that involved a Chinese vessel pointing a military-grade laser at a Philippine Coast Guard ship near Ayungin Shoal.

Defense Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the two countries had already conducted joint maritime patrols in the past, particularly in the Celebes Sea and the Sulu Sea.

Japan also expressed support for the Philippines.

Japan is now a strong partner of the Philippines and we would like to see engagements with them also on the defense side, Romualdez said.

The Japanese Embassy in Manila clarified last week that there are no discussions yet on possible joint patrols in the South China Sea among Japan, the Philippines, US, and Australia.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/sen-lankford-on-debt-crisis-we-should-sit-down-and-talk-about-priorities-1110188625.html

Sen. Lankford on Debt Crisis: 'We Should Sit Down and Talk About Priorities'

Sen. Lankford on Debt Crisis: 'We Should Sit Down and Talk About Priorities'

Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) expressed his astonishment at President Biden's reluctance to negotiate with lawmakers on the debt ceiling issue, as the deadline approaches.

2023-05-08T01:25+0000

2023-05-08T01:25+0000

2023-05-08T03:36+0000

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In an interview on US media program "This Week," Lankford criticized the president for refusing to negotiate despite the imminent nature of the problem. He highlighted the expectation that such a situation would arise and called for productive negotiations.Lankford pointed out that even when Treasury Secretary mentioned the possibility of a June 1 deadline, Biden suggested discussing the matter sometime in the following week. Lankford expressed surprise at the president's unwillingness to promptly address the issue through negotiation.Lankford expressed his hope that Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) would find common ground during their scheduled meeting on Tuesday. The senator emphasized the existence of wasteful spending in the government and stressed the need for a discussion on priorities, spending, and debt reduction.The Treasury Department has implemented extraordinary measures since January to prevent a government default on its debt. The ongoing lack of negotiation between the president and lawmakers has raised concerns about the potential consequences of a default.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230502/bidens-vandals-will-destroy-us-if-gop-loses-debt-ceiling-fight--1110034996.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230506/what-is-14th-amendment-biden-not-ready-to-invoke--how-is-it-tied-to-us-debt-ceiling-crisis-1110141414.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/shell-says-runoff-water-from-deer-park-fire-directed-into-houston-channel-1110188140.html

Shell Says Runoff Water From Deer Park Fire Directed Into Houston Channel

Shell Says Runoff Water From Deer Park Fire Directed Into Houston Channel

Shell says its wastewater storage capacity has been exceeded and that water from firefighters battling a chemical blaze at their facility will be redirected to the Houston Channel which feeds into the Gulf of Mexico.

2023-05-08T01:10+0000

2023-05-08T01:10+0000

2023-05-08T01:10+0000

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texas

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shell

curtis smith

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The company stated that wastewater storage capacity had been exceeded amid ongoing firefighting efforts and runoff water from the Deer Park facility fire is being directed into the Houston Ship Channel as a "controlled discharge." On Friday afternoon, a fire started at Shells Deer Park Chemicals facility in Deer Park, Texas, near Houston. The ignited product includes cracked heavy gas oil, cracked light gas oil and gasoline, company spokesperson Curtis Smith said in a statement to Sputnik. Smith said that Shell USA was going to conduct an investigation into the cause of the fire. On Saturday, the fire was thought to be extinguished, but it reignited hours later.No injuries have been reported, but a small number of contract employees who were exposed to the ignited product are undergoing medical evaluation as a precaution, Smith told Sputnik. Meanwhile, local media reported that five people were hospitalized as a result of the fire.This fire is the latest chemical fire for Deer Park, TX, which sits near the Gulf of Mexico, between the Buffalo Bayou and the Burnet Bay. In 2019, a chemical fire broke out at another company's facility, Intercontinental Terminals, which sits less than two miles from the Shell facility.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/suspect-in-attempted-murder-of-russias-prilepin-charged-with-terrorism-1110191068.html

Suspect in Attempted Murder of Russian Writer Prilepin Charged With Terrorism

Suspect in Attempted Murder of Russian Writer Prilepin Charged With Terrorism

Russian Investigative Committee charged Alexander Permyakov, the suspect in the attempted murder of Russian writer and politician Zakhar Prilepin, with terrorism.

2023-05-08T08:53+0000

2023-05-08T08:53+0000

2023-05-10T14:34+0000

russia

ukrainian crisis

zakhar prilepin

terror attack

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On Saturday, Permyakov, the detained suspect in the assassination attempt on Prilepin, admitted during questioning that he had acted on the instructions of the Ukrainian special services, having planted explosive devices along the car's path. "As part of the criminal investigation into the bombing of Zakhar Prilepin's car, Alexander Permyakov was charged with committing crimes under Article 205 of the Russian Criminal Code (terrorist act) and Article 222 of the Russian Criminal Code (illegal arms trafficking). The investigators request to choose pretrial detention as a preventive measure against him," the statement read.The investigative committee added that Permyakov has been placed into the two-month pretrial detention.On Saturday, Prilepin's car was blown up on a highway in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod Region. The driver was killed, while Prilepin was injured. The region's governor, Gleb Nikitin, said that Prilepin had undergone successful surgery following the attack. Local residents told Sputnik that Prilepin had both of his legs broken after his car was blown up, but he was conscious.The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) told Ukrainian media on Saturday that it could neither confirm nor deny its involvement in the terrorist attack on Prilepin.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230507/russian-politician-prilepin-says-he-drove-car-during-blast-1110184161.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/texas-to-deploy-newly-created-guard-unit-to-intercept-migrants-at-border-1110199099.html

Texas to Deploy Newly Created Guard Unit to Intercept Migrants at Border

Texas to Deploy Newly Created Guard Unit to Intercept Migrants at Border

According to Texas governor Greg Abbott, this state plans to deploy new National Guard unit to intercept migrants on the border.

2023-05-08T12:50+0000

2023-05-08T12:50+0000

2023-05-08T12:50+0000

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The troops will be equipped with aircraft, boats, night vision goggles and riot gear to prepare for anything they might encounter at the border, Abbott said. Texas has already deployed around 10,000 National Guard members, along with 1,200 Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to the border, Abbott said. Together, these forces have turned back more than 37,000 people who were trying to enter into the US and apprehended another 37,000 who did cross into the country illegally, he added. The forces have also arrested about 27,000 dangerous criminals, including cartel gang members who were wanted for crimes such as murder and have seized enough fentanyl to kill every citizen in the United States, he said. A massive surge of illegal migrants is expected to overwhelm the US southern border after the Trump-era public health emergency order known as Title 42 - which allowed the US government to turn away illegal immigrants at the border to prevent the spread of COVID-19 - is set to expire on May 11. An all-time record number of migrants have arrived at the US southern border under the Biden administration, hitting two consecutive records in 2021 and 2022, exceeding 2.3 million people. In fiscal year 2023, the US authorities said they have encountered more than 1.2 million migrants.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/biden-administration-left-thousands-of-migrant-minors-in-grave-danger-1109634901.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230506/theyre-everywhere-hundreds-of-migrants-arrive-on-us-mexico-border-ahead-of-title-42-end-1110132667.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/ukraine-claims-kiev-targeted-with-heaviest-attack-since-launch-of-special-op-1110199379.html

Ukraine Claims Kiev Targeted With Heaviest Attack Since Launch of Special Op

Ukraine Claims Kiev Targeted With Heaviest Attack Since Launch of Special Op

Ukraine Claims Kiev was subjected to most massive attack since the launch of special military operation.

2023-05-08T14:13+0000

2023-05-08T14:13+0000

2023-05-08T14:13+0000

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Ukrainian media has reported a series of powerful explosions around the country, including Kiev, on Sunday night. Authorities in the capital stated that a tank with diesel fuel was damaged in the Solomensky district. Explosions and fires were also reported in Odessa."This is the most massive attack () on our city," Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.The attacks come after Ukraine organized a number of terrorist hits on Russian territory, including the recent drone attack on the Kremlin that was thwarted by Russian security services.Zelensky's followers also made an attempt on Russian politician and writer Zakhar Prilepin, blasting his car on a highway in Nizhny Novgorod region. The driver was killed, while Prilepin was seriously injured. At the same time, the chief of Kiev's military intelligence Kyrylo Budanov said they will proceed with "killing Russians."As Moscow top investigator Alexander Bastrykin explained, this strategy only confirms that terrorism is a "typical style of Ukrainian nationalists." Since October 2022 Russia has been carrying out precision strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, defense industry and military command facilities in retaliation for a terrorist attack on the Crimea Bridge.In past months, air raid alerts have sounded in Ukrainian regions every day, sometimes throughout the country.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230506/drone-attack-on-kremlin-shows-ukrainian-nationalists-prefer-terrorist-acts---bastrykin-1110133215.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/us-disrupts-positive-momentum-in-relations-with-beijing-chinese-foreign-minister-says-1110189517.html

US Disrupts Positive Momentum in Relations With Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Says

US Disrupts Positive Momentum in Relations With Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Says

The stabilization of US-China relations should be a priority after Washington disrupted the positive momentum achieved during the meeting between the leaders of the two countries in Bali, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang said during a meeting with US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns.

2023-05-08T05:05+0000

2023-05-08T05:05+0000

2023-05-08T11:24+0000

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"In November of last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden held successful talks on the island of Bali and reached important consensuses. However, since then, a series of misguided actions and statements by the American side have disrupted the hard-won positive momentum in bilateral relations, relations between the countries have again hit the ice," Qin Gang said as quoted by China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday. The foreign minister added that the stabilization of bilateral relations is a top priority.Gang also called on Washington to stop supporting separatist forces in Taiwan."[The US] should properly approach the Taiwan issue  stop supporting and condoning the separatist forces of 'Taiwan independence'," Qin Gang told Burns, as quoted by China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday.The foreign minister also pointed out to Washington the need to respect China's "red lines" and stop violating its sovereignty, security and development interests.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.Despite officially declaring its adherence to the so-called One China policy, the US has maintained informal diplomatic ties with Taipei, while also providing military assistance to the island, citing the "Chinese threat" as justification. Beijing has repeatedly slammed Washington for being "a security risk creator in the region."Chinese Foreign Minister also shared his opinion on Moscow-Beijing ties in an interview to Saudi newspaper. He stated that the Russian-Chinese relations have overcome outdated models such as a zero-sum game and a confrontation between blocs and have been able to withstand different challenges."[The relations between Russia and China] have overcome such outdated models as the zero-sum game and the confrontation between blocs," Qin told.The Chinese foreign minister also said that the bilateral relations had been able to withstand different challenges because the countries found way to strategic mutual trust, adding that they did not pose a threat to other nations and reflected "right direction of historical development."Russia and China will continue to work on a comprehensive strategic partnership as well as promote the model of a multipolar world, Qin said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230506/us-to-reportedly-fast-track-500-mln-arms-for-taiwan-amid-narrative-of-china-threat-1110137406.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221001/putin-congratulates-xi-saying-beijing-moscow-develop-all-round-partnership-kremlin-1101404162.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/what-should-americans-brace-for-on-the-brink-of-default-1110191569.html

What Should Americans Brace For on the Brink of Default?

What Should Americans Brace For on the Brink of Default?

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently warned that unless the congressional limit on the countrys debt servicing is raised by June 1, the US government will likely begin defaulting on its debt.

2023-05-08T12:30+0000

2023-05-08T12:30+0000

2023-05-08T12:30+0000

us

us treasury

janet yellen

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sputnik explains

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With a US default scenario grabbing global headlines, Sputnik has reached out to renowned experts to ask them about possible implications of the potential default and what ordinary Americans should do if it happens. What is the 2023 US Default All About?Fabrizio Carmignani, professor of economics and dean at Griffith Business School, explained that Will the US Default on Its Debt?Will There Be Repercussions?Carmignani also warned that if the US effectively comes to a default, then there would likely be some significant consequences in America and worldwide:He was echoed by Chris Devonshire-Ellis, chairman of Dezan Shira & Associates, who predicted that in the event of a default:What Should the US and Its Citizens Do?While there are no easy solutions in such a volatile scenario, British academic and author Rodney Atkinson advises Americans to:He stressed that as far as the US is concerned, it must:The first one occurs when the borrower has not made a scheduled payment of interest or principal. A technical default is a violation (a breach) of one (or more) terms of a loan agreement between a borrower and a lender.As for the US, it has never reached the point of default where the Treasury was incapable of paying American debt obligations, even though it has been close on several occasions, including the 2011 debt ceiling crisis. In a last-ditch move at the time, Congress passed a law that increased the debt ceiling by $2.4 trillion to tackle the deadlock.In one of the latest developments, US lawmakers urged President Joe Biden to sit down and negotiate the debt ceiling and stop "playing Russian roulette" with the American economy."I am disappointed in the White House, they are missing in action. This should be the biggest issue that they are dealing with every day, they should be having daily meetings with [House Speaker] Kevin McCarthy to figure out how we get this done," Senator Rick Scott told reporters

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230202/white-house-biden-made-clear-to-mccarthy-duty-to-avoid-default-on-us-national-debt-1106903937.html

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possible us default, us debt ceiling, scenario of us default, implications of us default, ius government
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230508/winter-might-bring-gold-rush-20-to-california-1110187319.html

Winter Might Bring 'Gold Rush 2.0' to California

Winter Might Bring 'Gold Rush 2.0' to California

California is bracing itself for the aftermath of an unusually wet winter, which not only brought flooded fields and raging rapids but also the potential for a modern-day"Gold Rush 2.0".

2023-05-08T00:06+0000

2023-05-08T00:06+0000

2023-05-08T03:35+0000

beyond politics

us

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sacramento

northern california

mark dayton

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Mark Dayton, a former firefighter-paramedic turned treasure hunter, from Sacramento Valley, described the winter as a "100-years event." The heavy rainfall and consecutive atmospheric rivers led to an unprecedented amount of snow accumulation on the state's mountain peaks. However, as the snow melts and rushes down the hillsides, it carries other materials along with it at incredible speeds.Dayton explained that the torrential flow creates a cascading waterfall effect as it descends from about 5,000 feet to 3,500 feet. At this point, the flow enters the foothills, meandering into creeks and streams. The force of the water reshapes the waterways and causes the material, which includes gold, to be ripped off the creek walls.With the anticipation of an imminent gold rush, prospectors and treasure hunters are preparing to seize this unique opportunity. The combination of the wet winter and the reshaping of waterways provides favorable conditions for the discovery of gold deposits that may have remained hidden until now.Golden History With Dark SpotsThe region, aptly named El Dorado County, is renowned for being the site of the original gold discovery in the mid-19th century. In 1848, carpenter James Marshall stumbled upon gold flecks in a diversion channel near Coloma, leading to a population boom as news of the discovery spread. California's Department Parks and Recreation reports that the non-American Indian population surged from around 14,000 in 1848 to approximately 250,000 by 1852.While the gold rush brought prosperity to many, it also had a detrimental impact on the local Native American population. As the influx of settlers devastated the land, water, and resources, the indigenous communities suffered greatly.Shining ProspectsNowadays in order to ensure responsible and ethical mining practices, organizations like the Gold Country Treasure Seekers emphasize the importance of adhering to a "detecting mining code of ethics." This code advises prospectors to respect the environment, avoid trespassing, protect water sources from contamination, fill holes, refrain from disturbing archaeological monuments, and report all discoveries to landowners.The Placerville Hardware Store, which opened its doors in the same year as the original gold rush, expects a resurgence of gold fever. The store owner, Albert Fausel, has witnessed an influx of people planning trips to the area and seeking guidance on gold prospecting. Fausel assists them by recommending local campsites, optimal gold-hunting locations, and appropriate tools like gold pans and metal detectors.With the price of gold reaching high levels, the region is expecting an influx of tourists who are eager to engage in exciting activities. Mr. Dayton predicts that June will be ideal for panning and sluicing as water levels will decrease, reducing the risk of drowning.Mr. Fausel is enthusiastic about welcoming families to the area and providing them with guidance on the art of panning for gold. He says he finds great joy in witnessing the excitement of new enthusiasts when they discover their first piece of gold.

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Inclement weather cast over southwest Kentucky on Sunday afternoon (May 7) and prompted the cancellation of the card from Oak Grove Racing, Gaming and Hotel out of an abundance of caution and for the welfare of participants.

Strong thunderstorms and continual lightning beat down on the Oak Grove oval and within a wide radius surrounding, spurring a near two-hour weather delay that ultimately led to the decision to cancel the card.

However, the races scheduled for Sunday will still be contested on a new date. The 12-race card, which featured the third preliminary of Kentucky Sires Stakes action for four-year-olds, will now be contested at Oak Grove this Tuesday, May 9 with first-race post time at 3 p.m. CDT (4 p.m. EDT).

Racing resumes at Oak Grove on Monday, May 8 with one of the most challenging and competitive cards of the racing season thus far. The $1,460.80 carryover in the Late Pick 5 will be carried over to Monday's sequence, which starts in Race 6.

Daily post time is 3 p.m. CDT (4 p.m. EDT).

(Oak Grove)
The stakes season is just getting underway but a pair of three-year-olds who were purchased at the 2021 Goshen Yearling Sale have already been headline winners.

Thunder Hunter Joe (Huntsville-Thunder Angel) was victorious in 1:51 in a $50,000 division of the Paul Revere Stakes held at Plainridge Park on Thursday, May 4. The time was a new lifetime mark and it also set a new Paul Revere stakes record. After competing in the New York Sire Stakes final at two, Thunder Hunter Joe is now undefeated this year and in only seven lifetime starts has earned $83,950. Thunder Hunter Joe sold as Hip #41 for $39,000.

On Saturday, April 29, I Was Tricked (Huntsville-Shepulledthegoalie) won the $50,000 divisional final of the Bobby Weiss Series at Pocono Downs in 1:50.4, which was also a new lifetime mark for the gelding. He was unraced at two, but this year already has four wins in only six starts, including three straight victories in the series, with $54,960 on his card. I Was Tricked sold as Hip #33 for $55,000.

Thunder Hunter Joe and I Was Tricked are only two of many that will be competing from this class of Goshen Yearling Sale graduates that will soon be joined by many two-year-olds who went through the sale last year.

Since 2015, the Goshen Yearling Sale has offered high quality stock from top breeders including sale regulars Cameo Hills Farm, Winbak Farm, Blue Chip Farm, Silver Tradition Stable, Leatherstocking Equine, Pine Hill Stable and ThyWillBe Done Farm and Marie Houghtaling. This year will be no different and there is still time to enter yearlings in the catalogue.

The deadline is Monday, June 19 to consign horses to the 2023 Goshen Yearling Sale that will be held on Monday, Sept. 11 at the Mark Ford Training Center in Middletown, New York.

This year promises to be one of our best offerings in the history of this sale. Yearlings from proven sires that year after year have turned out solid racehorses as well as big stake earners and record-setters, said Mark Ford. The catalogue is filling up quickly with outstanding offerings that our customers will want to bid on. We are looking forward to welcoming another great crowd in September and will provide the best experience possible for both the seller and buyer.

The sales facility is located at 90 Slaughter Road, Middletown, NY, which is within a 90-minute drive of many major racetracks and training centers in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, making it a very convenient location.

For any other inquiries, contact Mark Ford directly at 973-568-3253 or by email at fordsta[email protected].

(With files from Goshen Yearling Sale)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 9)  The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) on Monday said it may take a while before the country could have another power plant as much planning would be involved.

According to NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza, the agency has been warning that power supply would be thin amid the rising demand this dry season.

"It does take time to build power plants, to build transmission lines. The planning portion for this must be done way ahead. You cannot plan for your use just this year," Alabanza told CNN Philippines' The Final Word.

"You have to have at least a 10-year planning horizon to ensure that the demand will not overtake the supply increases. So this has to be well planned, well coordinated," she added.

Unscheduled power plant shutdowns and lower capacities of operating facilities forced NGCP to declare a red alert on the Luzon grid from 1 to 4 p.m. on Monday.

Based on NGCP's official Twitter account, power interruptions were reported in a number of provinces, including Isabela, Quirino, and Ilocos Sur.

Alabanza said the plants were back online at around 5 p.m. and power is expected to be stabilized by Tuesday. She added that NGCP is "optimistic" that there would be no red or yellow alerts hoisted over grid lines in the following days.
Howard Dinning of Windsor, Ont., passed away on Monday, May 8. He was in his 92nd year.

Dinning was a longtime Windsor, Ont. resident who trained and drove horses throughout southwestern Ontario and throughout Ohio, Michigan and New York.

He is survived by his wife Joan and daughters Barbara, Janet and Andrea. He was predeceased by his son John.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Howard Dinning.

(With files from Ontario Harness Horse Association)
The first-ever Culpeper Latino Festival on Sunday attracted a large number of the areas Hispanic community to Culpeper Town Square over the Cinco De Mayo holiday weekend.

Over 100 people came to enjoy the cultural offerings of Latin America at the special event May 7 which included music, food and clothing vendors. The festival was held in a parking lot adjacent to Tractor Supply.

The festival was the brainchild of Jose Andreas Ruiz, founder of One Vision Network, a Spanish-language, family-friendly channel based in Warrenton.

According to Valarie Ruiz, the channels Chief Financial Officer, the organization decided to bring their festival to the Culpeper area due to its growing Hispanic population.

One Vision Network has held their festivals in areas such as Warrenton, Leesburg and Sterling. Ruiz says that they want to expand to areas that have large Latino communities and give members of those communities a chance to expand their visibility in their hometowns.

We wanted to have a celebration for all Hispanics to come together, even if they dont have the same Independence Day, said Ruiz. Its an opportunity to launch young people and give businesses a chance to get in front of people they may not normally get in front of.

Various local Latino and Hispanic businesses were invited to participate in the festival, including the Collectors Den and Burnt Ends BBQ Y Mas, among others. Live music was also a huge staple of the event, groups that performed included Veneno, Principes, La Destreza, Kolecitvo Serreno and Escalante.

The Culpeper County Chamber of Commerce was there to celebrate the festival with a ribbon cutting event. Among those who participated in the ceremony along with the Ruizes were Culpeper Mayor Frank Reaves Jr. and representatives from various Latin American countries, namely Guatemala and Mexico.

According to Ruiz, in addition to being invited to join in the festivities they were also given the opportunity to talk with some of those in attendance to offer counseling for immigration issues they may have.

For years weve been in contact with the embassies and weve put on events like this one where they can bring a lot of people and help them get their visas, said Ruiz.

Mauricio Forzan, community affairs coordinator at the Mexican Embassy in Washington D.C., was on hand to speak to those in attendance.

While on stage, Forzan gave a brief history of Cinco De Mayo which marks Mexicos victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. This victory would eventually lead to Mexicos independence from France when a withdrawal order was made by Napoleon III in Jan. 1866.

Forzan would also remark that more people celebrate Cinco De Mayo in the United States than in Mexico. Many in the U.S. mark the day as a celebration of Mexican-American cultures. Forzan stated another reason for Americas enthusiastic celebration of Cinco De Mayo, saying at the time France had its eyes set on conquering territory held by the United States.

When we (Mexico) defeated the French, America was so happy because the French wanted to go up to the United States, says Forzan.

Also on hand for the event was 2024 Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Eddie Garcia, Garcia and his staff set up shop to talk to the festivals attendees, sharing what he would offer, if elected. Garcia plans to run against Senator Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, when his seat comes up for re-election in 2024.

The Latino community is being recognized for the growth it has had in the Commonwealth, it has over 800,000 Latinos in the state right now which is roughly 10% of the population and its growing, said Garcia.

Culpeper County has 13 percent Hispanic population, 17.3 percent in town.

Were the largest growing small business population, were the largest growing population in general and were the largest population of new workers and newcomers to the United States as a whole, said Garcia.

Garcia foresees the Culpeper Latino Festival becoming bigger next year, because of this years turnout and because things that happen in the Latino community tend to grow.

Everything we do as a Latino community always gets bigger because theres more of us coming every day and the more that we know each other the more we come and support each other, said Garcia.

The Latin-inspired fun will continue with the 17th Annual Culpeper Fiesta, back this year at the Depot on Sept. 22 during National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Authorities are investigating the death of a 64-year-old Gering man after his body was discovered Friday, May 5.

Law enforcement officers responding to a shop building at 130615 Lockwood Road at about 3:50 p.m. on Friday discovered the body of Salvador Quijas, lying on the floor, according to information released by Capt. Jason Rogers of the Gering Police Department. Rogers said Gering Police officers and Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Department deputies responded to a report regarding a death.

When officers and deputies arrived, they were led to a shop building on the property, where Quijas body was found. Officers determined that Quijas was a part-time mechanic for the business.

A preliminary investigation indicated Quijas died inside the building during the afternoon hours on Wednesday, May 3. Investigators are reviewing all evidence available to them as well as conducting interviews to determine what led to Quijas death. An autopsy has been ordered by the Scotts Bluff County Attorneys Office.

Investigators from the Nebraska State Patrol, Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs Office and the Scottsbluff Police Department assisted during the initial investigation, Rogers said.
A California man faces charges in connection with a crash that killed a Sidney woman Friday.

Authorities arrested Gurjeet Singh, of Fresno, California, on a charge of motor vehicular homicide in connection with a crash that killed Lori A. Wiens, 48, of Sidney, according to information released by Cheyenne County Attorney Paul Schaub. The crash occurred at Link 17 J and Old Post Road at about 4:40 p.m. People familiar with the community know the road as the intersection near McDonalds and Walmart. A passerby alerted a nearby trooper to the crash, according to information released by the Nebraska State Patrol.

A preliminary investigation determined that Wiens had been driving a Nissan Maxima eastbound on Old Post Road when Singh, driving a semi and travelling northbound on Link 17 J, struck Wiens car. Troopers allege that Singh had run the stop light at the intersection.

Two 16-year-old girls who were passengers in Wiens vehicle were transported to Sidney Regional Medical Center for treatment of injuries. One of the girls was transported to Colorado for further treatment and Schaub said she was considered to be in stable condition Monday. The other girl was treated for her injuries and released.

Officers arrested Singh, who is being held at the Cheyenne County Jail.

During the investigation of the crash, authorities closed the northbound lane of Link 17J and traffic was restricted on both lanes of Old Post Road. The Sidney Police Department, Cheyenne County Sheriffs office, Nebraska State Patrol, Sidney Volunteer Fire Department and Regional West Emergency Medical Services ambulance responded to the scene.

The Nebraska State Patrol is overseeing the investigation into the crash. The Cheyenne County Sheriffs Office is conducting a coroner investigation and Schaub said he has ordered an autopsy in the crash.
(CNN)  At least 22 people, including women and children, have died after a boat capsized in India's southern Kerala state on Sunday, fire officials said, as search and rescue operations enter a second day.

The boat, which was ferrying tourists, capsized near Tuvalthiram beach in Malappuram around 7:30 p.m. local time, the district's fire department told CNN. Officials do not know how many people were on board, but estimate the number to be around 35, it added.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, V.R. Premkumar, a senior official from Malappuram district, where the incident took place, said 10 people have been admitted to hospital while five swam ashore.

The Indian Navy has joined search and rescue operations, regional officials said Monday.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased, announcing compensation from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF).

"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala," a tweet from Modi's office said Sunday. "Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh ($2,446 USD) from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased."

Kerala's chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan is expected to visit the accident site on Monday.

On Sunday, Vijayan tweeted his condolences, saying he was "deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives."

At the time of the disaster India was celebrating a long weekend with Buddha Purnima (Buddha's birthday) falling on May 5 this year.

Kerala, known for its lush forests, beaches and backwaters, is a popular tourist destination for many Indians and foreigners alike.

One of the state's top attractions are its traditional wooden houseboats which ply the brackish lagoons and canals that crisscross much of the tropical coastline.

This story was first published on CNN.com. 22 killed after boat ferrying tourists capsizes in India's Kerala state
Can you imagine setting out on a long trip with your family to a place you had never been to without a GPS or a road map? To a place you have never seen and where there are no doctors, hospitals, fire departments, police officers, stores, or schools? To a place where there are no hotels, and worst of all, no cellphone service?

It sounds crazy to even think about it. I mean what kind of parents take their families to a place they know almost nothing about. Well, they know a little about it. They know the wildlife around them will include bears, panthers, wolves and snakes. They know there are people there who may try to kill all of you as they think you are stealing their land, and oh yes, they say the weather is bad there a lot, too.

Yet, thats exactly what most of our ancestors did in the 1700s after they first came to what was called, The New World. Most of the ones that would settle in what today is Iredell County first arrived at the port in Philadelphia starting in the late 1740s only to find much of the land in Pennsylvania and the surrounding colonies already taken.

These early Scots-Irish and German families would have left their homes and spent weeks making their way to an English port and waiting for the ship to depart. The voyage across the Atlantic Ocean from London to Philadelphia could take from two to three months and would cover some 3,500 miles. After arrival at the port in Philadelphia they would have set out on the Great Wagon Road heading south on a journey that could take six weeks to three months more to reach the Carolinas, where new wilderness land was opening up.

On Monday, May 8, at 5:30 p.m. the Iredell County Public Library in Statesville will host the Rev. Bill Hallman, who will present a special program on The Great Wagon Road. Hallman has spent years researching the Great Wagon Road also known as the Great Philadelphia Wagon Road or the Carolina Road. This program is sponsored by the Iredell Friends of the Library.

Few people today with children would ever attempt the journey our ancestors took to reach Carolina. Safety for ourselves and our families always comes first. Our ancestors risked their lives and everything they had in the world when they left Europe to reach America. The voyage across the Atlantic then was as dangerous as going on an Apollo mission to the moon.

The great English writer Samuel Johnson once said, Being on a ship is like being in jail, with the chance of being drowned. In fact, most sailors during this period did not know how to swim. There was no way to call for help and no chance of rescue anyway. They reasoned that if your ship went down it was better to go ahead and drown than to paddle around in the water for three days and drown anyway.

The voyage over could take up to three months (and thats without Dramamine, too). You and your family would have been crammed aboard a ship with barely room to lay down and absolutely no privacy. Food and water would have been rationed with everyone eating and drinking from the same unwashed cups and plates. Disease such as dysentery, scurvy, typhoid, and smallpox was everywhere and death would have been common. Burial for a beloved father, mother or child would have been over the side of the ship.

In 1750, German Lutheran pastor and organist Gottlieb Mittelberger left England on board the British ship Osgood bound for Philadelphia. He later wrote about his voyage in Journey to Pennsylvania, published in 1756. The Osgood sailed with some 400 immigrants plus crew and arrived in Philadelphia on Oct. 10, 1750. Thirty-two children died on the voyage.

But during the voyage there is on board these ships terrible misery, stench, fumes, horror, vomiting, many kinds of sea-sickness, fever, dysentery, headache, heat, constipation, boils, scurvy, cancer, mouth-rot, and the like, all of which come from old and sharply salted food and meat, also from very bad and foul water, so that many die miserably.

Imagine a mother with two children on a ship crossing the Atlantic. Her husband has died of disease and the cost of the voyage took every penny they had. Her only option would have been to sell herself as an indentured servant once making port.

It happened to one of my cousins' ancestors. Family legend says that when their ancestors set out from England their last name was Grant. While on board the father died leaving the mother and children alone. Fortunately, a single man by the last name of Wallace agreed to marry her once they reached port and help take care of her children. They still go by the name of Wallace today.

Why take such risks? Our ancestors fleeing Europe were seeking a better life, but there must have been more to it. I think many of them feared what they were leaving more than the dangers that lay ahead. In their minds I think they were escaping. They were escaping a Europe that had been divested by wars. From 1600 to 1700, Europe had known only five years of peace. From 1700 to 1800, it knew only four. Europe was constantly at war and your husband or son could be swept away into an army at any time.

Our ancestors were leaving a homeland where lack of food, shelter and jobs was making it hard to survive. There was no way really to make your life better. Real wealth meant owning land and all the land was owned by the noblemen and the crown. The average family in Europe was like a sharecropper bound to land they could never own. You worked your life away as a peasant with most of the fruits of your labor going to someone else.

Even living as a peasant was becoming impossible. The population in Europe doubled in the 1700s from 100 million to 200 million. The 18th century was marked by terrible poverty. With no form of birth control, women typically had eight to 10 children. Europes natural resources such as timber and fish were disappearing. Wars had destroyed buildings that had taken generations to build. You couldnt even pray in peace as there was religious persecution everywhere.

My ancestor Jacob Ries had the plat for the land he bought from Lord Granville run in 1751. He received 640 acres in his Lord Granville Land Grant in what was then Anson County, but today would be Yadkin. 640 acres is one square mile. Can you imagine what it must have felt like to walk off that much land and know it was yours? It may have been the first time in the entire history of the family that someone actually owned land.

The first Moravian settlers arrive in Carolina in November of 1753. Old Father Ries as they refer to him befriends the Moravians and though not a Moravian himself, he allows them to preach and baptize in his home. Jacobs son Valentines children are baptized by a Moravian minister in their home. They were not of the same denomination, but they had accepted the Lord as their savior. For Jacobs family and his Moravian Brother guest that was good enough.

What a difference from the Europe they left behind where people were persecuted, tortured, and executed over the denomination they belonged to. No wonder they were so desperate to get away from European civilization. The dangers of living on the frontier would have been great, but no more so than the dangers of staying in Europe. To be able to worship freely, to work your own land, to keep what your hard work and hands produced. Even today you will hear people say all they really want is to be left alone.

The church I go to has a sister church in Los Encouentros, Guatemala. It is called Genezerath Presbyterian Church. We send money to purchase the kids school supplies and clothes each year. In January of 2022, I read about a caravan of hundreds of men, women, children, and even infants in baby strollers that had been stopped and turned back by the Guatemalan security forces. They were attempting to cross Guatemala to journey on to the United States border.

The caravan was made up of Hondurans and Nicaraguans, all fleeing their homelands. Sixty-two percent of the population in Honduras live in poverty made even worse by the coronavirus and two back-to-back hurricanes in 2020. The Honduras and Nicaragua people have suffered from pollical upheavals and drug wars for years.

I usually refer to these people as illegal immigrants and I support the belief that only those who enter the U.S. legally should be allowed in or to stay. There is a fine line though between an illegal immigrant and a refugee. Maybe their leaving and risking it all for the same reasons my ancestor Jacob did in 1750. Maybe they are more afraid of what theyre leaving than where they are going too.

I wonder if the Cherokee or the Catawba Native Americans who first saw Jacob and his family felt the way I do watching illegal immigrants crossing our borders on the evening news. Jacob Ries and his 640 acres purchased from Lord Granville, whose ancestor Sir George Carteret was given the land by King Charles II in the 1660s. Land that neither the Lord nor his King ever saw or owned to begin with.
By Syune Arakelyan



UK Armenian comedian Kev Orkian has performed around the world, also shocking the jury members of Britain's Got Talent and making King Charles IIIthen Prince Charlescry with laughter. Through all these successes, Orkian never forgets about his priority, which is his homelandArmenia. Along with his comedy shows and funny videos on Instagram, the comedian is always vocal about all the problems and injustice surrounding Armenia and Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).



NEWS.am STYLE presents an interview with Kev Orkian for the series Armens, where the world-renowned comedian speaks about his roots, meeting with King Charles, Armenian comedy shows, and upcoming projects.



Mr. Orkian, how had your family settled in London?

My father moved to the UK in 1965, direct from Lebanon where he was serving as a soldier for two years. My Mom moved in 1972, after being one pals with my father through the Armenian church. Both immigrated from Turkey.

My grandparents lived in Sevas and were forced to move to Turkey to survive the genocide of 1915.





Do you come to Armenia often?



I go to Armenia at least once a year if not twice. I was only there in August 2022 when I was filming my second documentary, Ararat Uncovered, where we climbed the Mount Ararat. We filmed so much of lost Armenia including Akhtamar and Ani. The experience was amazing, and I plan to go to Armenia again in 2024 to film two new movies.



In 2017, while being here, you were shooting a project together with Andy Simon, Armenia Uncovered. What was the most amazing thing to learn about Armenia?



What I learned about Armenia is how beautiful our country really is. We have an incredible history, cultures and people that is pretty much a kept secret, unless you visit the place. The most amazing thing I discovered was the organic food that tastes totally different from the rest of the world. It was delicious and incredibly delicious. I was also humbled at the amount of love there is for the country, for me the best country in the world.





Youve also visited Stepanakert. Was that your first visit to Artsakh?



It was my first time visiting Stepanakert. The entire region was the cleanest place I have ever seen. Taking into account the amount of adversity the place has endured, it looked like nothing had ever happened. Imagine 400 bombs hitting the city daily and yet today its one of the most beautiful places on earth.

I know that youre speaking Armenian, following the traditions. What about your sons?



Both my sons are growing up learning Armenian. We dont speak very much at home due to my wife being English, but through my passion for Armenia, my twin sons have taken an interest and learn the language and the history through me. I believe my heritage is important to protect and elevate through new generations. If we dont take the importance of protecting our language our history we will be diluted to nothing one day, and I will not allow that to happen.



Let me pass to the beginning. How Kevork Kapikyan turned into Kev Orkian?



When I went to register as an actor in the UK they didnt allow my name in full due to another Armenian actor called Kevork Malikyan. So, they asked me to change my name. So, what split Kevork in half to Kev and then I removed "kapik" from Kapikyan and added the "ian" instead of yan to make Kev Orkian.





Was your sense of humor inherited by someone or was it just born with you?



Only God knows the answer. I was born to make people laughthats what I know.



Youre making a lot of people laughfrom the stages, through the social media Is it easy to make you laugh?



I laugh a lot. My favorite things online are bloopers. I cry with laughter when watching these. As for standup, Im a little more skeptical and laugh at comedians who have funny bones. Most comedy these days is for shock value not comedic and thats why Im more choosy at who I enjoy.



A lot of people got to know you from Britains Got Talent. What did the show give to you besides the fame?



Actually it didnt give me any fame at all, nor did it do anything for my career. My success has come from my own hard work and determination to succeed in an industry that has given me the ability to enjoy what I have been born to do. The show is not really a talent show but more of an exhibition to highlight people who think they can do what takes years to perfect. Its a good to show only.





Youre one of those comedians who had the chance to perform in front of The Royal family members! What kind of an experience was that for you? Were you nervous?



Ive never been nervous when walking on stage. I enjoy performing so much I dont think about getting nervous. Performing for royalty was an honour. I have performed for many of the British, Saudi, Dubai, families. Each one has been so much fun, and watching King Charles crying with laughter, makes me feel amazing. The Sheik of Dubai gave me a five min standing ovation which humbled me greatly.



If Im not mistaken, you had the opportunity to have a conversation with King Charlesthen Prince Charles. Could you remember what were you talking about?



I totally remember what we spoke about and the main subject was about being Armenian. He was interested about my heritage. He also mentioned how much he enjoyed my show and quoted by saying: "You're an absolute

genius."





Do you follow Armenian comedy shows?



I watch Armenian stand up comedians like Vahe Berberian and ArmComedy, both of which are very funny. I do believe, however, that more Armenian comedians need to be universal to open up bigger opportunities for themselves and for the Armenian awareness.



Are there any projects you are working on now?



Yes. Im filming two new Armenian films which will be filmed in Armenia in 2024. Im also releasing my new piano album around the same time. However, Im now planning a brand new 25th anniversary stand up tour kicking off in 2025 taking me to 50 cities around the world sharing my 25 years of doing stand up for Armenians



Youre speaking about every problem in Artsakh and Armenia, criticizing those who are silent How do you see the solution to these problems, and the future of Armenia?



The solution is to stop being afraid and start talking. Too many people including celebrities are afraid to share their thoughts because of the backlash they might endure. However staying silent is violence towards the injustice that is happening in Armenia right now. The more noise we make the better we will be heard. My ethos is to continue to speak even if no one hears me. The future for Armenia is dilution and disappearance if we dont start to unite and speak up for the hell our people are experiencing in Artsakh.

Photos: Alivenetwork.com, Instagram/Kev Orkian

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United Salts production team in Saltville knew the potential for growth existed. They proposed an expansion several times. Marcie Peters, USC Holdings Corp. president, acknowledged Wednesday morning that when they ran the numbers the project didnt seem viable.

The Saltville team persisted.

About 18 months ago, Peters said, the team surprised her with a dinner presentation showing how the expansion could be accomplished.

Peters credited their will and ambition as the company celebrated that expansion Wednesday morning in Saltville.

In an interview following the celebration, Peters also said that the Saltville operation is quickly becoming one of our most profitable facilities, and she expressed the belief that future investments will be made in Saltville.

As United Salt is privately owned, Peters declined to note the investments value in terms of dollars but noted that it will increase production capacity by 15%  about 30,000 tons. The expansion included a new packaging line and added 31,000 square feet of storage capacity and an additional silo.

United Salt, said Peters in her public remarks, is the fourth largest producer of salt in the United States and is still owned by the same family that founded the company nearly 100 years ago just outside Houston, Texas.

United Salt acquired the Saltville operation in 2007 from Spectra Energy. When the deal closed in June 2007, the plant employed 14 people. Today, according to the Saltville plants manager, Chris Crawford, 51 employees work at the facility that operates 24/7.

Crawford, a former Merillat production manager, joined United Salt in 2014. He explained that continuous operation is necessary to keep the mines going and to supply food industry customers that include Mt. Olive Pickle Co., Smithfield, and Mr. Chips Inc.

In addition to evaporated salt for food, the Saltville facility produces salt for pools, chemicals, oilfield markets and agriculture.

Dubbed AquaSalt, the salt produced for pools and spas makes up about 40% of Saltvilles production, Crawford said.

The plants expansion, Peters said, is an investment in our customers who continue to grow.

According to Crawford, the Saltville plant produces about 680 tons of salt each day. In 2022, it sent 227,000 tons of salt out of the town.

Both Peters and Crawford celebrated the companys relationship with Saltville and Smyth County.

The partnership we enjoy with the community is very important to us, Peters said. With many of its employees living in Saltville, she said, United Salt is pleased to give back.

Crawford noted that the operation has contributed to town efforts and multiple school projects.

Of United Salt and Saltville, Crawford observed, Its a great place to work, a beautiful place to work.

Roscoe Call, who represents Saltville on the board of supervisors and a former United Salt employee, echoed those sentiments, saying it was the best company he worked for. He started with the plant at the site in 1997.

In earlier comments, Town Manager Brian Martin said, USC is one of the towns largest industries and they are outstanding corporate partners. As the town manager Im grateful for the solid relationship that the town shares with USC.

Speaking during Wednesdays celebration, Saltville Mayor Todd Young described United Salt as an amazing company and great partner.

Noting that the town was founded on salt, Young said the element is part of Saltvilles history and its future.

Salt began being commercially mined in the community in the mid-1700s.

Peters declared, We do what we do for the love of salt.

The 95-year-old company is based in Houston, Texas. A number of its Houston employees and company owners were present for the celebration.

U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith spoke during the ceremony and celebrated the initiative of the Saltville employees that led to the expansion, the investment and the jobs.

Laura Blevins, who serves as U.S. Sen. Tim Kaines regional director, noted that her father grew up in downtown Saltville and her grandparents were members of the towns Madam Russell church. Knowing that United Salt is growing and helping Saltville thrive, she said, warms my heart even on a cold day.

Del. Israel OQuinn noted Virginias high rankings as a place to do business and to live and said, We live in the best part of a good state. He celebrated the belief in the people of Southwest Virginia.

In addition to Saltville, United Salt produces salt products at two plants in Texas and another in New Mexico.
It is the US and the European Union that needs to encourage the Arab League to come up with a roadmap for the Syrian crisis, Bassam Barabandi argues in an op-ed.

Over the past decade, several US policy decisions made by Republican and Democrat administrations have caused a decline in Americas reputation in the Gulf. The common theme among these decisions was abandonment. As the political climate in the Middle East continues to shift, China and Russia are taking advantage of the increasing mistrust between the Gulf countries and the United States to create a new world order in which the US is no longer the sole hegemonic power.

China and Russia are trying to exploit the weakened trust between Gulf countries and the US to demonstrate that they can help reduce regional tensions and resolve outstanding political issues that the US has failed to achieve. Additionally, China and Russia claim they can help the Gulf states focus more on their internal economic prosperity. However, both countries are using the Arab theater to push their dangerous adventure against the US, which may have disastrous consequences for the region.

The transition of the Gulf countries towards this new system began under Obamas leadership and has continued under the Biden administration.

With his policy of zero problems in the Middle East, Obama was prepared to sacrifice Americas strategic alliance with Gulf states to defend his nuclear deal with Iran. And his concept of leading from behind suggested that Washington was not involved in issue-solving, such as crises in Syria, Yemen, Egypt, and Libya. During Obamas presidency, Gulf states realized that their future ties with Washington might not be as certain as they thought.

Donald Trumps so-called maximum pressure campaign on Iran without a serious political vision for the region further insulted the Gulf states. The 45th presidents policies were based solely on economic prospects and ignored the deep historical and political ties between the Gulf states and America.

And now, under Biden, who also served as Obamas vice president, his former bosss policies have been revived. But, the Biden administration has failed to note the Gulf states evolution over the last decade. Both Trump and Biden did not do much to protect GCC countries from missiles launched by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen or the Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabias Abqaiq and Khurais oil plants, which was a turning point in the relations.

Gulf states have since enhanced their ties with Beijing and Moscow. The latter two are leading efforts to form a new world order by selling their points to the GCC as capable of bringing stability to the region, where American and Western powers have failed.

The recent Saudi-Iranian agreement, sponsored by China and aided by Russia, is another indication of the beginning of this new political system.

The Arab rapprochement with the Assad regime, which recently included Saudi Arabia, reflects the reality of regional priorities and is another indicator of how China and Russia are using the mistrust between GCC and Washington to empower their agenda in the Middle East.

As for the Syrian crisis, the United States and Western countries must realize that their inability to come up with ideas for a solution does not mean that others will wait for one. Nevertheless, they cannot simply let Russia and China use the Arab League to promote their way for a solution.

Recently, American ideas put forward by Washington-based think tanks and US public figures for Syria are a repetition of general ideas that do not reflect an understanding of the new reality in the region.

It is the US and the European Union that needs to encourage the Arab League to come up with a roadmap for the Syrian crisis, one which helps achieves stability in the region and the aspirations of the Syrian people for freedom while preserving the territorial integrity of Syria.

The US, EU, and UK should support these efforts and help the Arab countries while they negotiate with China, Russia, and Iran. The Syrian people and Arab countries should determine a political solution, and this should be backed by Western governments, not by implementing any Russian, Iranian, or Chinese ideas.

While Arab countries are negotiating in good faith, they are unlikely to have enough leverage to garner concessions from the Assad regime or his Iranian backers. With US and European support, including pledges to ease sanctions if the Assad regime meets certain conditions, the Arab countries will have a much stronger hand at the negotiating table.

Bassam Barabandi is a former Syrian diplomat. He left the Syrian Embassy in Washington in 2013.

This article was first published on Al-Arabiya Website. Republished by The Syrian Observer with the approval of the author.
The resolution confirmed the Syrian regime's participation in the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States, according to Syria TV.

On Sunday, Arab foreign ministers approved the return of the Syrian regime to its seat in the Arab League, on the condition that it abides by the outcomes of the Amman meeting held on May 1st.

The resolution was published by the Iraqi News Agency and approved during the Cairo meeting, where the ministers discussed the Syrian crisis and ways to bring Damascus back into the Arab League.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of preserving Syrias sovereignty, territorial integrity, and stability based on the principles of the League of Arab States, and calls for intensified Arab efforts to help Syria emerge from its crisis and end the suffering of the Syrian people.

Additionally, the resolution welcomed the Arab statements issued at the Jeddah meeting on Syria on April 14 and the Amman meeting on Syria on May 1st. The Arab League aims to play a leading role in resolving the Syrian crisis, addressing the humanitarian, security, and political consequences for Syria and its people. The Arab League will also work to address the impact of the Syrian crisis on neighbouring countries, the region, and the world, including issues related to asylum, terrorism, and drug trafficking.

The resolution expressed appreciation for the Syrian regimes willingness to collaborate with Arab countries in implementing the outcomes of Arab statements, fulfilling the commitments and agreements made at the Amman meeting, and adopting the necessary measures to activate the Arab role. The resolution emphasized the need to take practical and effective steps, in accordance with the principle of reciprocity and UN Security Council Resolution 2254, to gradually resolve the crisis. This includes allowing aid delivery to those in need in Syria, in line with the mechanisms outlined in Security Council resolutions.

The resolution announced the formation of a ministerial liaison committee consisting of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, and the Secretary-General to monitor the implementation of the Amman statement. The committee will also engage in direct dialogue with the Syrian regime government to achieve a comprehensive solution to the Syrian crisis in a step-by-step manner, aligned with UN Security Council Resolution No. 2254. The committee will submit periodic reports to the Council of the League at the ministerial level.

Finally, the resolution confirmed the approval of the Syrian regimes participation in the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States and its affiliated organizations and bodies, effective from May 7th, 2023.

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.
The Foreign Ministry expressed its interest in the decision made by the Council of the League of Arab States, according to al-Watan.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants has stated that Syria is aligning itself with the positive trends and interactions currently taking place in the Arab region. It believes that these actions are in the best interest of all Arab countries and crucial for achieving stability, security, and prosperity for their people.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Foreign Ministry expressed its interest in the decision made by the Council of the League of Arab States during its extraordinary session held at the General Secretariat of the League on May 7th, 2023. The decision stated that the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic could resume participation in the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States and all its organizations as of Sunday. The Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of dialogue and joint action to address the challenges facing Arab countries.

The Foreign Ministry also reiterated Syrias continuous position as a founding member of the League of Arab States. It emphasized the need to strengthen joint Arab action and cooperation in the next stage. The Ministry called for an effective and constructive Arab approach at both the bilateral and collective levels, based on dialogue, mutual respect, and common interests of the Arab nation.

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.

The Arab League has decided to reinstate Syrias membership, lifting the 12-year suspension that started during the 2011 uprising against President Bashar Assads rule. Despite this, the United States has voiced its disapproval of attempts to normalize relations with Assad, and a lawsuit has been filed on behalf of Obada Mzaik, a Syrian-American who survived torture while in custody and managed to leave the country. Meanwhile, Iran and Syria have agreed to strengthen their relationship and focus on reconstruction by developing economic ties, following a significant visit to Damascus by Irans President Ebrahim Raisi.

Pariah no more? Arab League reinstates Bashar Assads Syria

The Arab League has voted to restore Syrias membership, ending a 12-year suspension that began during the countrys 2011 uprising against President Bashar Assads rule, AP reported.

Thirteen out of the leagues 22 member states sent their foreign ministers to the meeting in Cairo, with only Qatar opposed to reinstating Syria. While the return to the Arab League is symbolic, as Western sanctions against Assads government remain in place, it marks a victory for Damascus and takes another step towards bringing Assad, a long-time regional pariah, back into the fold. Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the decision does not mean all Arab countries have normalized with Damascus, and it is part of a gradual process of resolving the conflict.

The move was met with criticism from opponents of Assad, who see it as a betrayal, with Laila Kiki, executive director of The Syria Campaign, an international advocacy group, stating it has cruelly betrayed tens of thousands of victims of the regimes war crimes and granted Assad a green light to continue committing horrific crimes with impunity.

The decision follows a meeting in Jordan last week, where regional top diplomats discussed a roadmap to return Syria to the Arab fold as the conflict continues to de-escalate.

Some influential league members remain opposed to reinstating Syria, chief among them Qatar, which did not send its foreign minister to Sundays gathering. Thirteen out of the leagues 22 member states sent their foreign ministers to the meeting in Cairo, AP added.

Syrian Prime Minister Hussein Arnous claimed Sunday that Syria had been the victim of misinformation and distortion campaigns launched by our enemies for 12 years. He said Sundays consultations reflected the prestigious position Syria holds regionally and internationally.

Opponents of Assad saw the move toward normalization as a betrayal.

Arab states have put their own cynical realpolitik and diplomatic agendas above basic humanity, said Laila Kiki, executive director of The Syria Campaign, an international advocacy group. The move, she said, has cruelly betrayed tens of thousands of victims of the regimes war crimes and granted Assad a green light to continue committing horrific crimes with impunity.

The Arab League generally tries to reach agreements by consensus but sometimes opts for simple majorities. Sundays session was held behind closed doors, and it was not immediately clear which countries had registered objections.

Raisi concludes visit to Syria, vows to strengthen ties

Iran and Syria agreed to boost ties and develop economic relations, with a focus on reconstruction, as the Islamic Republics President Ebrahim Raisi on Friday concluded a landmark visit to Damascus.

During late-night talks Thursday, Raisi and his Syrian counterpart Bashar Assad discussed ways to develop and strengthen bilateral relations and emphasized existing cooperation in the field of reconstruction, according to a joint statement released Friday.

Raisi concluded his two-day trip early Friday and had described the visit, the first by an Iranian president to Syria since 2010, as a turning point in bilateral relations.

The visit positions Tehran in a leading role in Syrias reconstruction, with Assad seeking to focus on reviving his countrys devastated economy and infrastructure, despite Western sanctions on both countries.

The pair also expressed a willingness to take any action to develop commercial-economic relations.

On Thursday, Raisi said Iran and Syria had signed 15 cooperation documents that would allow both countries to open a new chapter in economic relations.

He also praised Syria for achieving victory in the countrys war and invited Assad to officially visit Tehran.

The Syrian conflict was sparked by the repression of peaceful protesters in 2011 and has killed more than 500,000 people and displaced millions.

Large parts of northern Syria remain outside government control.

Iran and Saudi Arabia are two great nations, Raisi said during an interview broadcast on Syrian television on Friday evening, according to an official Arabic translation provided by state news agency SANA.

The restoration of ties between the countries would change and bring order to the region, Raisi said.

We refuse to consider Saudi Arabia as an enemy or be hostile to it.

Raisi also said during his interview that Iran was playing a mediating role in Russian-facilitated talks aiming to normalize ties between Syria and Turkey.

Moscow has encouraged renewed diplomatic relations between its Syrian ally and Ankara, which has supported rebels and the opposition in a bid to remove Assad from power.

A meeting of Syrian, Iranian, Russian, and Turkish foreign ministers is scheduled in the next few days in Moscow.

Raisi speech

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has positioned himself as a leader of the resistance axis alongside Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah, in a speech at a shrine in Syria. While he didnt mention Saudi Arabia, he indicated that Irans influence in Damascus is untouchable, and said that Iran would support Syria in its period of reconstruction, Al-Monitor reported.

The war in Syria has had a significant impact on Iran, both politically and economically, and Iran continues to honor those killed in the conflict as martyrs. Irans foreign minister, Hussein Amir-Abdollahian, wrote a book in 2020 detailing Irans role in Syria and accusing the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and their allies of trying to destabilize Syria to interrupt the connection between members of the resistance coalition.

The book also defended the political system in Syria and said that Iran had tried to transfer some essential security issues to Syria while preserving the prestige of the Syrian state. Despite the end of the war, Irans focus in Syria is shifting towards economic influence, with Iranian companies reportedly taking over state-owned enterprises, particularly in the northeast of the country, Al-Monitor added.

Iran is also building up local militias in Syria, which have been accused of human rights abuses and involvement in criminal activities. These activities have raised concerns among Irans regional rivals, particularly Israel and Saudi Arabia, who see Iran as a destabilizing force in the region.

U.S. will not normalize with Assad

Washington does not support push to normalize ties to Syrian President Bashar al-Assads govt, State Department says, Al-Jazeera reported.

The United States will not normalize relations with the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the State Department has said, as many of Washingtons Arab allies re-establish ties with Damascus.

The State Department said late on Thursday that top U.S. diplomat Antony Blinken discussed a recent meeting in Amman between Syria and its Arab neighbours during a phone call with his Jordanian counterpart, Ayman Safadi.

Secretary Blinken made clear that the United States will not normalize relations with the Assad regime and does not support others normalizing until there is authentic, UN-facilitated political progress in line with UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 2254, the department said.

The 2015 resolution calls for free and fair elections in Syria under UN supervision.

The foreign ministers of Syria, Egypt, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Jordan met for talks in the Jordanian capital on Monday amid a push to bring al-Assads government back into the Arab fold.

Syria was suspended from the Arab League and ostracised by regional powerbrokers in 2011 after its crackdown on Arab Spring protests, which turned into a protracted war. The conflict has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions.

As the Syrian government regained control over large parts of the country  with support from Iran and Russia  some Arab countries began to soften their stance towards Damascus.

The U.S., however, has maintained that it would not change its opposition to al-Assad without an inclusive political settlement to the conflict.

The State Department said on Thursday that Blinken expressed gratitude to Jordan for the hosting of refugees and reinforced the U.S. position that Syria must create conditions including greatly improved respect for human rights that would motivate refugees to return in a safe, voluntary, and dignified manner.

French jihadists who joined ISIS in Syria asks to be repatriated

Bryan Dancona, one of the first Frenchmen to join the ranks of the Islamic State group in Syria, wants to return to his native country, according to information relayed by the Center for Analysis of Terrorism (CAT), AFP reported.

Having left for Syria on December 27, 2013, the young man, now 26, presented himself with his daughter in early May at the French consulate in Istanbul, asking to be repatriated to France.

Dancona, according to AFP, an Islamic convert from Nice, was 16 years old when he went to Syria, via Turkey, with only an identity document in hand.

Dancona was very active once he arrived in Syria, where he attempted to recruit other young Frenchmen. Married for a time to the mother of his daughter, a compatriot, he settled with her in a camp near Idlib until 2021 or 2022.

The young man is the target of an arrest warrant and could soon be deported by Turkey. He risks being indicted for criminal association in relation to a terrorist enterprise on his return to France, AFP added.

Assad regime uses Syria embassies to spy on citizens abroad, report confirms

The Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad has been using its staff and intelligence operatives through its embassies abroad to compile reports on the Syrian diaspora, a new report has revealed.

According to the Syrian Justice and Accountability Centre (SJAC), citing 14,108 pages out of 483,000 classified documents it collected between 2013 and 2015 from abandoned Syrian state facilities, the Syrian regime has required embassy staff and intelligence in countries ranging from Egypt to Japan to compile reports on citizens living abroad.

The information gathered on them includes details about families back home, activists participation in political meetings, and even attendance at mosques. It confirms suspicions long held by Syrians abroad that their government was continuing to spy on them and their families through embassies in their host countries.

The documents, quoted by The Middle East Monitor, analyzed reportedly show communication between embassies and intelligence departments requesting information on individuals believed to be linked to political activism, along with their families.

One document, for example, reveals a letter from the Syrian chief of the Political Security Directorate to heads of local intelligence branches, asking for information on inciters who are living in France, Belgium, Turkiye, Russia, and Lebanon.

We have received a list from the National Security Bureau that includes the names of the instigators from outside the country including the following, it read. Kindly provide us with the information you have on any of the names above so that we can take the necessary steps against them.

The report by SJAC stated that the revelation should serve as a warning to foreign governments and Syrian refugees host countries against restoring ties with the Assad regime and reopening Syrian embassies on their soil, as it would likely lead to the intimidation of activists abroad and threaten the safety of themselves and their families.

Russian missile nearly hit U.S. MQ-9 drone in Syria last year: CENTCOM

A Russian surface-to-air missile nearly hit an American MQ-9 Reaper drone over Syria in a previously undisclosed incident last November, U.S. Central Command confirmed Thursday.

The near-shootdown is the second known skirmish between Russian forces and U.S. drones in recent months, amid growing tensions between the two countries in conflict zones where both maintain a military presence. Air and Space Forces Magazine first reported the incident on Wednesday.

We can confirm that a Russian-controlled SA-22 fired a missile at a U.S. MQ-9 on November 27, 2022, CENTCOM spokesperson Maj. John Moore said in an emailed statement.

In a previously undisclosed incident last November, a Russian-controlled SA-22 missile nearly hit an American MQ-9 Reaper drone over Syria, according to a statement by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

Although the Air and Space Forces Magazine initially reported that the drone was damaged, CENTCOM clarified that it was not aware of the missile exploding or the drone being hit. The interaction between the two forces prompted U.S. officials to contact Russian troops on a deconfliction hotline.

This comes as Russian forces grow increasingly confrontational in Syria, where Moscow backs the Assad regime and Washington supports the patchwork of rebel groups in the countrys 12-year civil war. Russian pilots have flown in a loose formation within 500 feet of American jets multiple times this spring, according to Air Forces Central Commander Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, who also suggested that the Russians may be growing brasher as a favour to their ally Iran, which opposes the U.S. military presence in the region.

A U.S. civil case gives us, Syrians, a glimmer of hope

A civil case filed against the Syrian regime in the United States by the Centre for Justice and Accountability (CJA) for its widespread torture of Syrian citizens over the past 12 years has given hope to Syrians, especially those whose loved ones have forcibly disappeared by the regime, Al-Jazeera reported.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Obada Mzaik, a Syrian-American who survived torture while in detention and was able to leave the country.

The news of the court case was received positively by Syrians whose family members were detained without charge and subjected to torture, and who have been living in displacement and uncertainty for many years.

The case is important because there is no international tribunal in place to investigate the crimes committed during the Syrian war, leaving Syrians with no way to seek justice.

The case in the U.S., along with others filed in foreign countries such as France, Germany, and Sweden, gives hope to Syrians that justice might one day be served, and keeps them going in their fight to release their loved ones from Assads prisons.
Rizk Muhammad al-Obei, editor-in-chief of the Tafaseel website, was detained by the Sultan Murad Division of the National Army, according to the SNHR.

Rizk Muhammad al-Obei, editor-in-chief of the Tafaseel website and a media activist from the city of Kafr Nabl in the southern countryside of Idleb governorate, was detained along with his wife, Hanan Akram al-Qasim, by the border guards of the Sultan Murad Division of the National Army on April 14th, 2023. They were attempting to travel unofficially from Turkey to the Afrin area in the northern countryside of the Aleppo governorate.

Their detention took place without the presence of any judicial warrant, and they were taken to a detention center belonging to the National Army forces in the town of Bulbul, located in the city of Afrin. However, on May 6, members of the Sultan Murad Division prevented their family from visiting them in the detention center in Bulbul. The family received information that Rizk and his wife had been taken from there to an unknown destination.

The National Army forces follow a similar policy to the Syrian regime when it comes to arrests, as there are no warrants presented, but rather arrests are carried out by kidnapping individuals from roads, markets, and public places, or by raiding the headquarters of media agencies and civil events, without judicial warrants. Furthermore, Rizk and Hanan have been prevented from communicating with their families or appointing a lawyer, and there are fears that they may be subjected to torture and become forcibly disappeared, like 85% of all detainees.

The Syrian Network for Human Rights strongly condemns the detention of journalist Rizk and his wife, and demands their immediate release, along with compensation for the material and moral damage caused to them. We also call for an end to all violations against media personnel and demand their protection under international humanitarian law.

Regrettably, the armed opposition and National Army forces have failed to provide a safe and independent environment for media workers in the areas under their control. There have been numerous incidents of attacks on media workers, and no serious investigations have been conducted nor have their results been made public to the Syrian public.

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.
The National Coalition highlighted that the Assad regime has continuously ignored Arab demands to cease killings, according to Damas Post.

On Sunday, the National Coalition of Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces issued a statement unequivocally rejecting the return of the Assad regime to the Arab League.

The statement, entitled On the Return of the Criminal Assad Regime to the Seats of the Arab League, declared that the Syrian people had returned alone, without official Arab support, after the Arab Leagues decision to reinstate the criminal regime. The Syrian National Coalition expressed its strong objection and dissatisfaction with the decision to reintegrate the criminal regime into the Arab League, stressing that such a move would signify the abandonment of the Syrian peoples just demands and their years-long struggle for justice, freedom, and democracy.

The Coalition emphasized that the decision constituted an overt bias in favour of the Assad regimes brutal and oppressive regime, which has caused immense suffering and misery for millions of Syrians. It further warned that the decision would serve to strengthen the power of the Assad regime and its allies, including Iran, and would lead to more violence, brutality, and terrorism toward the Syrian people.

The Coalitions statement concluded by calling on the international community to stand with the Syrian people in their ongoing struggle for justice, democracy, and human rights and to take concrete steps to hold the Assad regime accountable for its crimes against humanity.

The National Coalition highlighted that the Assad regime has continuously ignored Arab demands to cease killings, detentions, and drug exports. Furthermore, the regime is a backer and foundation of the expansionist mullahs regime project in the Arab region. Betting on a change in the behaviour of the war criminal, Bashar al-Assad is a futile exercise, and allowing him to evade punishment for his war crimes against Syrians is unacceptable.

The Syrian National Coalition further stated that the approach taken by the international envoy in the name of step for step has served the regimes interests and legitimized its existence. Now, the Arab Leagues decision to rehabilitate the regime and reinstate it to its seats within the League represents a reward for the regime, not a return to Syria. This move is a disregard for the Syrian peoples will.

The National Coalition reiterated the need for a complete political transition in Syria in line with UN Resolution 2254. It is crucial to hold Assad and his regime accountable for their crimes and subject them to a fair trial. Any initiative that exists outside the international resolution framework is a circumvention of the Syrian peoples demands and a biased move in favour of the Assad regime and its allies.

We were not consulted

Badr Jamous, the head of the Syrian Negotiation Committee, expressed his disapproval of the decision to reinstate the regime to the Arab League, stating that it undermines the Syrian peoples efforts for change and disregards their demands.

Jamous added that the decision was made without consulting the Syrian people, which is unacceptable. He also emphasized that the regimes return to the Arab League, without the release of any detainees or the return of any refugees, or even the provision of any positive steps related to the political process, is a significant blow to the Syrian peoples aspirations and rights.

Furthermore, Jamous stated that the regimes return will not contribute to achieving the desired stability and peace in Syria and will only further complicate the situation. He concluded that the decision to reinstate the regime represents a setback for the political process and will push the Syrian people to continue their just revolution until their legitimate rights are achieved.

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.
Qatar's official position on normalization with the Syrian regime is tied to advancing a political solution, Nedaa Post reposts.

Qatar has reiterated its stance on the normalization of relations with the Syrian regime, emphasizing that it is contingent on making progress toward a political solution.

Majid al-Ansari, the spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, confirmed that Qatars position on normalization with the Syrian regime remains unchanged. He also commented on the Arab Leagues decision to restore the regime to occupy Syrias seat, stating that Qatar is committed to supporting Arab consensus and will not obstruct it.

However, Ansari emphasized that Qatars official position on normalization with the Syrian regime is tied to advancing a political solution that fulfills the aspirations of the Syrian people. He expressed Qatars eagerness to collaborate with other Arab nations to achieve the Syrian peoples desire for dignity, peace, development, and prosperity.

Ansari went on to express hope that the Syrian regime would take steps to address the root causes of the crisis that led to its isolation. He also urged the regime to work towards improving its relations with other Arab countries, which would contribute to enhancing security and stability in the region.

Ansari emphasized that the State of Qatar continues to support all regional and international efforts aimed at finding a comprehensive and equitable resolution to the Syrian crisis that respects Syrias unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

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.
(CNN)  About 2,100 Afghan refugees remain held in a sprawling compound in the United Arab Emirates more than 18 months after they were evacuated from Afghanistan largely by private groups working with the US State Department.

They are what's left of as many as 20,000 Afghans who were hastily relocated to the camp during the chaotic weeks surrounding the US withdrawal after Kabul fell to the Taliban in August 2021. Several thousand were brought there by the State Department directly from Kabul and have since been relocated to the US or Canada.

But thousands more, including those still stuck in the UAE, were evacuated weeks later, and sometimes from hundreds of miles away from Kabul, by private groups working to get as many out of Afghanistan as possible.

Sources familiar with the matter told CNN that the private evacuation efforts, though well-intentioned, contributed at times to an already chaotic situation  though they also say that the frenzy of the withdrawal created unclear communication and expectations.

Consequently, thousands of Afghans evacuated by private groups were left in a legal limbo with seemingly no clear path to the US -- or anywhere else. And though the effort to resettle them has picked up in recent months, refugees inside the compound known as Emirates Humanitarian City, or EHC, are restless after almost two years of waiting inside a camp they are barred from leaving.

Without a visa, they're not allowed inside the country.

When they first arrived in the UAE in August 2021, Afghan evacuees were housed across dozens of buildings in the gated compound. Afghans were separated in rooms with their families across multi-level buildings divided by a common outdoor space.

They were supposed to be there for a few days. But that's now approaching two years for the more than 2,000 people who remain there. The State Department says it continues to process refugees out of EHC "on an ongoing basis." One American Marine veteran closely involved said that a family or two leave each week, bound mostly for the US and Canada, as well as Australia, with some scattered across Europe.

At that pace it could still take more than a year to empty out the entire population of evacuees who remain at the compound.

'When are we going to get out of here?'

Their plight has gained recent attention from human rights groups, who say the refugees are being held arbitrarily by the UAE and have been subject to a host of abuses, including poor medical care and being held in "prison-like" conditions.

A report put out by Human Rights Watch in March said Afghan asylum seekers have been "locked up for over 15 months in cramped, miserable conditions with no hope of progress on their cases" and are "facing further trauma now, after spending well over a year in limbo."

In a statement to CNN, a UAE official said the refugees at EHC have "received a comprehensive range of high-quality housing, sanitation, health, clinical, counseling, education, and food services to ensure their welfare."

The official said the UAE "continues to do everything it can to bring this extraordinary exercise in humanitarian resettlement to a satisfactory conclusion. We understand that there are frustrations and this has taken longer than intended to complete."

"The UAE remains committed to this ongoing cooperation with the US and other international partners to ensure that Afghan evacuees can live in safety, security, and dignity," the official added.

Allegations similar to those raised by the HRW report were described in an appeal to the United Nations submitted last fall by an independent American attorney, who alleged "widespread human rights abuses," including inadequate health and mental health care, "constant" surveillance and "restricted access" to government officials working their cases.

In a statement to CNN, Mara Tekach, State Department coordinator for Afghan relocation efforts, said that while the department is aware of the Human Rights Watch report, the US government "is not aware of any verified allegations of human rights violations at EHC."

CNN has not independently verified those allegations.

One refugee still stuck at EHC who spoke to CNN described extreme frustration over a seemingly hopeless situation. The man, who spoke on condition of anonymity out of safety concerns, said he worries about the effect the ordeal is having on his young daughter.

"My daughter, from months ago until now, sometime when she starts talking, I can feel the pain in her voice," he said.

The man showed CNN what appeared to be documentation that he was recommended for a Special Immigrant Visa by a US contractor with whom he worked in Afghanistan for almost two years. It was unclear whether that documentation is sufficient for what the State Department has required. He told CNN his daughter is growing anxious to leave.

"She says, 'You have [taken] me somewhere that I cannot see anywhere, I cannot go outside,'" the man said. "She's asking me every time, frequently, 'When are we going to get out of here?'"

A chaotic withdrawal

During the chaotic weeks of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, thousands of American military veterans rushed to help evacuate as many Afghans as possible.

Among them was US Marine veteran Pete Lucier, who worked with a coalition of veterans' groups known collectively as the #AfghanEvac coalition. Lucier said he is proud of much of the work that veteran and civilian volunteers did in helping Afghans flee the Taliban, which has since reinstated many of the draconian laws it had in place before the US and allied forces invaded after 9/11.

Still, Lucier admitted there have been shortcomings, telling CNN that even well-intentioned veterans' groups and individuals ended up "sometimes, unfortunately, making things worse for vulnerable and at-risk people."

Many of the individuals involved in evacuating Afghans had a "lack of familiarity with international law and the requirements of international travel," Lucier said. "Broadly, I think EHC represents and embodies many of those challenges."

Dina Haynes, an international human rights lawyer and a professor at New England Law school in Boston, echoed those thoughts, saying that what has happened at EHC is "not a surprise at all to anybody who has paid attention" to the US immigration system.

"The only people that it was a surprise to were those new people that showed up thinking that they could fly people out and land them somewhere and get the US government to help," Haynes said.

EHC is one of a few locations around the world where evacuated Afghans are still waiting to be processed for visas to the US or elsewhere. There are Afghans in Albania and Pakistan who were relocated there by private groups, as well as Afghans who were evacuated by the US government and are still being processed at Camp As-Sayliyah in Doha, Qatar, according to the State Department.

An agreement with the UAE

Operated and funded by the UAE government, the EHC compound was first built in Abu Dhabi's industrial Mussafah area to receive quarantine evacuees stranded in China following the outbreak of Covid-19 in 2020. After the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, thousands were evacuated to the compound as part of a wider regional humanitarian call to assist.

That was in part due to an agreement made in August 2021 between UAE officials and Joseph Robert III, a former US Marine and son of a wealthy real estate investor with connections in the country.

Robert's group, the Black Feather Foundation, joined the #AfghanEvac coalition made up of roughly 200 nonprofits in November 2021. Robert told CNN that relationships with UAE officials who were close with his late father helped secure the agreement to bring Afghans to UAE, sealed by a memorandum of understanding, which, according to Robert, stated that the UAE would receive and temporarily house Afghan refugees until they were able to move on to a third country.

The EHC compound was not specifically part of the agreement, Robert told CNN, but was chosen by the UAE because of its capacity.

CNN visited the compound in August 2021, during the first days when Afghans were arriving. Afghans awaiting security and medical screenings were kept in assigned rooms until they were called for processing.

UAE officials and US embassy personnel were present at the main center at EHC, where dozens of Afghan men and women sat awaiting information on their next destination. It was not immediately clear who was processing information from the evacuees.

'Not our plane, not our problem'

Robert said he has seen no signs of the alleged abuse taking place at EHC, which, he said, he visits every few weeks. He blames the US for not swiftly processing people out of EHC despite originally taking advantage of the extra hands that brought them there.

"The US government was using us at every turn when it benefited them," Robert said. "And then when it came time to do the work on the back end, to process them out, they tried to leave us high and dry."

Before going to Afghanistan in August 2021, Robert said he first flew to the UAE, where he had several meetings with officials about lining up commitments to take in refugees, as well as provide planes. When he finally landed at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan on August 20, 2021, things began to change immediately.

"It became just an on-the-fly, ad hoc assistance operation," Robert said, adding that, suddenly, "our planes were being loaded with just people from the airport that the US would have evacuated."

Afghan refugees arrived at EHC in three distinct groups. The first two groups were evacuated from the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul in August 2021 by both the State Department and private groups working independently. The third group of Afghans were brought to EHC over the next two months by private groups, including Robert's Black Feather Foundation, from Mazar-i-Sharif, a city roughly 260 miles from Kabul.

The EHC resident who spoke to CNN said he was flown out of Mazar-i-Sharif with his family after attempting to get through crowds of people at the Kabul airport during the evacuation in August 2021. Despite concerns about traveling from Kabul, especially with the possibility of running into the Taliban on the way, the resident said he thought it might his best chance "to get myself and my family out of the danger zone."

Robert told CNN the manifests for those flights were submitted by other organizations either directly to him or through other members of his team. Robert said he then submitted the manifests to the UAE government, which ran them through its own security systems.

It is almost entirely this group of people  those evacuated after August 2021  that remains stuck at EHC, both the State Department and Robert said. In her responses to CNN, Tekach said the State Department "had limited information" about refugees who came on those separate flights. She also emphasized that that the place where people were evacuated from "is not a determining factor as to whether" they qualify for relocation and resettlement.

Toward the end of October 2021, Robert said it was clear to him that the State Department was "not going to continue processing" any more people brought to the UAE since the evacuation had ended.

"That's where things with State Department started to unravel," he said. "They processed only those that came on their aircraft, not even the ones that came on our aircraft alongside theirs during the [noncombatant evacuation]. As one State Department official told me, 'Not our plane, not our problem.'"

Tekach told CNN that the State Department paused processing in November 2021 "in support of US public health priorities" and began relocating individuals in March 2022.

Still, Lucier told CNN that the US government and State Department likely were not clear enough in their communication about what private organizations could or could not do, leading to much of the confusion and at-times chaotic interference that occurred.

'Everyone wants it to be faster'

Robert expressed frustration over security concerns the State Department has raised about the Afghans at EHC, saying that for the most part the evacuees are "able to provide everything they needed" in terms of paperwork and documents, including reference letters from US employers while in Afghanistan.

While he acknowledged that there were shortcomings and mistakes made in the broader evacuation effort by private groups, Robert also said that was in part due to a "US government plan that was nonexistent."

All in all, Robert said volunteers were still able to evacuate "tens of thousands of individuals, despite the US government's inability to appropriately evacuate them in the first place."

Asked how many State Department officials have access to EHC and how frequently they are at the compound working to process people out, the State Deaprtment's Tekach said US officials have access to the compound "for a number of purposes, including gathering information to work on case processing and to support the well-being of the Afghan population at the facility."

Robert said that over the past six months, an average of three to five State Department personnel have come to EHC twice a week. After early frictions, Robert said his relationship with US government personnel who deal with EHC is "in a much better place now."

Despite the delays, Robert said they're slowly making progress in resettling the Afghans still at EHC.

"Having 20,000 people pass through the walls of EHC, and we're down to the last 2,000 -- that's a rather remarkable effort, although things didn't go as smoothly as we'd planned or hoped," he said.

"Even though everyone wants it to be faster, things are moving at a rather steady and consistent pace, and everyone's still actively doing everything they can to find suitable pathways for people and accommodate families, and find other opportunities if a previous one falls through. Everyone is working tremendously hard to do what is right by these people," Robert said.

'Why are we abandoned by the US?'

As the US and others work to process Afghans out, Human Rights Watch is still trying to bring attention to their plight.

"They're still in this facility, which was never designed to hold people for this long," said Joey Shea, the lead researcher on HRW's recent report. "And they've been effectively imprisoned after an extremely traumatic experience of fleeing a Taliban takeover."

Shea said the clearest solution is through the US government.

"There just needs to be more resources put by the US government to make sure that these asylum and humanitarian parole and other applications are processed quickly," she said.

At EHC, the current resident who spoke to CNN described how happy he was to have been evacuated from Afghanistan in 2021. Aside from marrying "the love of my life" and having children, he said that leaving Afghanistan was "the best day of my life."

"When the plane took off, I couldn't fit in my own skin because of the happiness that I had," he said emotionally. "This is a new life that I began to live with my family. I was happy and proud I could do something for my wife, my kids."

The recommendation letter he received from his US employer says he is "completely trustworthy, intelligent, and a faithful employee" and the "kind of person who will make a valuable contribution and service to the US, if allowed to immigrate."

But the longer he and his family languish at EHC, he said, the harder it is to explain his work with the US.

"'What will happen to us? Why are we abandoned by the US?'" he said his wife asks him. "My wife tells me that maybe it was not right that you worked for the US government."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Thousands of Afghans escaped the Taliban with the help of private veteran groups. Today, many remain in limbo, held in a compound in the UAE"
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

After Syria rejoined the Arab League Sunday, countries around the world had different reactions: While UAE and most other Arab countries welcomed the move as a further step towards Arab reconciliation, Qatar has reiterated the importance of resuming the political process. Meanwhile, Iran has welcomed the agreement and expressed its readiness to supply the Assad regime with advanced weapons. At the same time, Jordan has launched a strike in Southern Syria, killing one of the countrys most renowned drug lords.

How has the world reacted to Syria rejoining the Arab League?

Al Jazeera toured some Arab and international responses to the Arab League decision to reinstate Syria.

UAE: a positive step

Some Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates, have pressed to end al-Assads isolation and welcomed the decision.

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAEs president, tweeted that Syrias readmission was a positive step and the UAE believes in the necessity of building bridges and maximising partnerships to ensure regional prosperity and stability.

Qatar accepts reinstatement, not normalisation

Other Arab nations have opposed full normalisation without a political solution to the Syrian conflict and want there to be conditions on Syrias return.

Qatar had previously opposed Syrias return to the Arab League. In a statement to the Qatar News Agency, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson said the countrys position on normalisation with the regime had not changed.

However, the spokesperson also said the country would still support the Arab consensus and will not be an obstacle to that.

The reinstatement of Syria does not mean normalisation of relations between Arab countries and Syria, Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit told reporters in Cairo. This is a sovereign decision for each country to make.

Responding to whether al-Assad could participate in Arab League meetings, Aboul Gheit told reporters: If he wishes because Syria, starting from this evening, is a full member of the Arab League.

Washington sceptical as Moscow welcomes move

A United States Department of State spokesperson said Washington shared the goals of its Arab partners on Syria, including building security and stability, but remained sceptical of Assads willingness to take the steps necessary to resolve Syrias crisis.

We do not believe Syria merits readmission into the Arab League at this time, the spokesperson said, adding that US sanctions would remain in full effect.

Russia, a key ally of al-Assad, was supportive of the move. Moscow welcomes this long-awaited step, the logical result of the process, which has gained momentum, of returning Syria to the Arab family, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement.

Jordan looks to curb drug smuggling

Syrias readmission follows a Jordanian initiative laying out a road map for ending Syrias conflict, which includes addressing the issues of refugees, missing detainees, drug smuggling and Iranian fighting groups in Syria.

Jordan is both a destination and a main transit route to Gulf countries for captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine produced in Syria, and has hinted it could take unilateral action to curb the multibillion-dollar trade.

A Jordanian official said Syria would need to show it is serious about reaching a political solution because this would be a condition to lobby for the lifting of Western sanctions, a crucial step for funding reconstruction in Syria.

Congratulations from Iran

Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Nasser Kanaani congratulated the success of Syria in regaining its place and its seat in the Arab League to the government and people of the country, according to the ministrys Twitter page.

Saudi Arabia softens stance

Several Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, supported rebel groups fighting government forces in the early years of the war in Syria. However, more recently, it has shown a desire to soften relations as part of a greater shift in regional diplomacy, including a rapprochement with Iran.

Saudi Arabia signed a Chinese-brokered landmark deal with Iran  Syrias key regional ally  this year, in which they pledged to restore diplomatic ties.

After the Saudi-Iran rapprochement, Saudi state television reported that Riyadh was discussing the possible resumption of consular services between it and Damascus.

China welcomes, supports Arab solidarity

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday that China welcomes and congratulates Syria on its return to the Arab League.

According to reports, the Arab League convened a special foreign ministers meeting on Sunday, which agreed to readmit Syria to the group.

We believe this is conducive to the strength and unity of Arab states, the development and revitalization of the Arab world and peace and stability in the Middle East. This serves the long-term interests of Arab states, Wang told a press briefing.

Obstacles not removed

But the road is not quite smooth. Syrias readmission to the Arab League on Sunday has paved the way for President Bashar al-Assad to attend the May 19th Arab summit in Riyadh.

However, Syria still faces significant challenges in achieving full normalisation with all member states. While some Arab League members hosting Syrian refugees are eager for them to return home, the majority of Syrians living below the poverty line need aid and investment in reconstruction.

Additionally, the presence of US and Turkish troops, the issue of disappeared persons, and the billion-dollar trafficking in Captagon must also be addressed. Jordan has proposed a plan that includes the safe return of Syrian refugees and reconciliation, but implementing it will require significant resources and cooperation from other Arab governments.

Furthermore, Lebanese authorities have issued a decree requiring Syrians to register with municipalities before renting property or conducting transactions, causing panic among refugees who fear deportation. The Syrian government could issue amnesty for men who fled to avoid army service, and rural refugees need assistance to resume farming.

Urban refugees require the creation of jobs through reconstruction and economic revitalization.

Iran Says Ready To Arm Syria With Advanced Weapons

Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani said Tehran is prepared to equip the Syrian military forces with sophisticated weapons and open strategic defence gear factories in the Arab country, Iranian media has said.

The Iranian defence minister, who was accompanying the Iranian president during a visit to Syria last week, held a meeting with his Syrian counterpart Ali Mahmoud Abbas in Damascus to weigh plans for closer cooperation between the two states.

Highlighting Irans support for Syria in a full-fledged war against the Daesh (ISIL or ISIS) terrorist group, General Ashtiani said the Defense Ministry of Iran is prepared to arm the Syrian armed forces with the most advanced defence weapons, Tasnim News Agency reported.

Voicing Irans readiness to establish defence and multilateral infrastructures in Syria and strengthen the Arab nations military arms capabilities, the defence minister said Iran can cooperate with Damascus in the construction of factories and production of strategic defence equipment in order to improve the Syrian peoples security the Iranian official news agency added..

For his part, the Syrian defence minister expressed gratitude to Iran for contributing to security and stability in his country.

General Mahmoud Abbas underlined that strengthened defence power will prepare Syria as a member of the axis of resistance in the war on terrorism.

Iran used earthquake to transport weapons to Syria  Washington Post

The Washington Post has reported, citing classified information from a CIA leak last month, that Iran has used aid transports meant for earthquake-stricken Syria to smuggle weapons into the country. The report suggests that an Iran-linked militia in Iraq transferred rifles, ammunition, and drones hidden within the aid, meant to help Syrians affected by the earthquake. These weapons were allegedly intended for future attacks against US forces in Syria. The leaked documents also implicate Abu Fadak al-Mohammadawi, a senior official within Iraqs Popular Mobilization Forces, which has been linked to Iran. The Iranian government has denied any involvement in sending weapons to Syria through earthquake-related shipments. Iran finances and arms various militias throughout government-held areas of Syria.

Iran, Syria to increase direct flights

On a different note, Iran and Syria have decided to increase the number of weekly flights between the two countries from June 5th, the head of Irans Civil Aviation Organization (CAO) has said.

The topics of air transport and increasing flights for passengers and cargo, particularly pilgrims, were discussed during a recent visit to Syria and meeting with Syrian officials, Mohammad Mohammadi-Bakhsh was quoted as saying by Tehran Times.

Increasing flights between the two countries will also increase air traffic by 50,000 passengers each year, the official added.

Both countries also agreed to develop necessary tourism infrastructure to serve tourists and travellers more properly, he noted.

Hezbollah

Meanwhile, A Hezbollah operative in Syria tasked with enlisting locals to gather intelligence on Israel appears to have resumed his activities after lying low in response to the recent arrest of one of the spies, Israeli television reported Sunday.

Ghaith Abdullah, 26, was arrested in January by troops after crossing into Israeli territory from Syria for unspecified reasons and was later charged with spying on the Lebanese terror groups behalf.

The Israel Defense Forces has said Abdullah was part of the so-called Golan File, a Hezbollah plot that mostly involves collecting intelligence and recruiting operatives, but also has weaponry in its possession, namely explosives, light arms, machine guns, and antitank missiles.

According to the Kan public broadcaster, Abdullah was recruited by a Hezbollah member known by the nom de guerre Abu Ali, who is in charge of enlisting spies for Hezbollah in southern Syria.

To enlist local Syrians, he allegedly gave recruits such as Abdullah large quantities of oil and food, exploiting their poverty to bring them on as spies. Though Abdullah reportedly figured out Abu Ali was Lebanese, he agreed to photograph IDF positions in exchange for the provisions, according to the report.

Airstrikes kill well-known Syrian drug kingpin

Airstrikes over southern Syria early Monday killed one of the countrys most well-known drug dealers, an opposition war monitor and a pro-government radio station reported.

ABC News reported that the rare attack came days after Jordan warned it would use force inside Syria to eliminate drug trafficking to its territories and from there to oil-rich Arab gulf nations.

The strikes also come a day after Arab governments reinstated Syria to the Arab League following the countrys suspension for its crackdown on protests that ultimately led to a lengthy civil war. As Arab governments gradually rekindle ties with Damascus, one of the key topics of discussion has been Syrias illicit drug industry, which has flourished during the ongoing conflict  especially the illegal amphetamine Captagon.

Western governments estimate that Captagon has generated billions of dollars in revenue for President Bashar Assad, his Syrian associates and allies. Damascus has denied the accusations.

The first strike hit a home in the Syrian village of Shuab in Sweida province near the Jordanian border, killing Merhi al-Ramthan, his wife and six children, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Jordanian state media shared news of the airstrike, but only cited Syrian media and added that al-Ramthan was wanted by Jordanian authorities. Jordans foreign minister at a press conference Monday following a meeting with his Dutch counterpart said Syria had committed to cooperating with Arab countries on drug smuggling during last weeks talks in Amman, and that he will call his counterpart in Damascus to translate this agreement into a clear mechanism.
Meet Ashley and Israel, the dynamic duo behind Phat Ash Bakes! This power couple left behind the hustle and bustle of New Jersey to make their cookie dreams a reality in Florida. Combining Ashleys passion for baking with Israels career in management, they have created an incredible community centered around their mouth-watering cookies.

Starting with Ashleys famous oatmeal raisin cookie, The OG, their business has grown to become a beloved local favorite. Not only do they get to indulge in their love of baking every day, but they also give back to the community through monthly donations.

Recently, Orlandos very own Phat Ash Bakes & Foxtail Coffee launched their newest collaboration: Cookie Phactory  a curated collection of your favorite cookie flavors at the Foxtail Coffee location at 3122 E Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32803.

Read on to discover how their passion for baking has turned into a thriving business.

Tasty Chomps Q and A with Phat Ash Bakes Owners Ashley and Israel

TastyChomps: How did you come up with the idea and inspiration to start Phat Ash?

The combination of Ashleys love of cooking, and hard-knocks-necessity. Ashley was working two jobs; at Lululemon in Winter Park and Winter Park Fish Co. while Israel was starting a new career with Atrium Management. Baking was Ashleys outlet. We remember one time having to make the choice of treating ourselves to pizza for dinner, or buying butter to test bake. Im sure you can figure out which choice won! Weve had the opportunity to create an incredible community with Phat Ash Bakes, that allows us to bake cookies everyday (what a dream!) and give back to the community through our monthly donations. Double win for us!

How long have you been baking cookies and what motivated you to turn it into a business?

Weve been baking cookies since the end of 2019. Ashley obsessed over creating a recipe for her first cookie  The OG, an oatmeal raisin cookie loaded with chocolate chips, shredded coconut, macadamia nuts and maldon salt. After testing 3,485,798 (totally exaggerating) test batches, her friends & co-workers encouraged her to have a bake sale. Once I realized that I was making more money than my 9 to 5pm, we began to take things seriously. We transitioned from a Cottage Food License to a fully licensed and insured kitchen.

What makes your cookies unique and stand out from others in the market?

Our cookies are unique because theyre big, fat, and full of our favorite snacks! Pop tarts, Oreos, M&Ms  you name it, weve probably tried to use it! But aside from unique flavors, we are proud to be able to give back to our community; one of the pillars of Phat Ash Bakes. We choose a different charity each month to partner with by donating $1 per sale of one of our Phat Chocolate Chip cookies. Local charities we have worked with are The Zebra Coalition, SALT, NextStep Orlando, Stand Up Survivor and The Primrose Center.

How do you source your ingredients and ensure their quality for your cookies?

We source our junk food wherever and whenever we can. A lot of our mix-ins are seasonal so we are always looking out for the newest flavor drops everywhere we go!

What challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?

Imposter Syndrome is a real thing! Ashley has definitely had her moments of doubt  what am I doing here?  am I really a baker?  why would people want what I am making? But that is why we are such a dynamic and amazing team; Israel has always stepped up in those moments to love, encourage and support. Our entire relationship is rooted in love and support, and so even when things are challenging we are definitely there to lift each other up & overcome.

How do you decide on your cookie flavors and variations, and how do you keep them fresh and interesting for your customers?

We started with 5 flavors on the menu, and have made over 200 flavors at this point! Since we change the menu weekly, aside from our Phat Chocolate Chip, weve been able to keep it fresh. Ashley and her team of amazing bakers come up with cookie flavors by browsing the supermarket aisles & eating different desserts. It sounds silly, but we can find inspiration in so many places. We have also definitely gotten some great ideas from guests at our Bake Nights! A 90 minute experience at our Speakeasy Bakery where star bakers can come to whip up some wild cookie creations! We provide the dough, a large variety of mix-ins, fillings & glazes and then they take it from there.

Can you share some of your proudest moments or achievements on this journey thus far? What can be done with a delicious cookie, other than eat it?

Well, with our chocolate chip cookie we were able to collect over 500 pairs of shoes for SALT Outreach  a community resource center helping those experiencing homelessness in Orlando & Central Florida. Weve also recently partnered up with Foxtail Coffee Company to introduce our cookies to coffee lovers around Florida and beyond. They are expanding quickly and we are proud that our cookie company has made so much noise that they wanted to offer our flavors to their customers. Keep your eyes out for The Cookie Phactory by Phat Ash Bakes at Foxtail Coffee East Colonial.

From a culinary standpoint, one of Ashleys proudest moments has been creating our dough recipes from scratch. Baking is science! And let us tell you, there were LOTS of experiments! And some  not so great. But after countless test batches, meltdowns, & recipe revisions we landed on the recipes that create cookies that WE love  soft, thick, and packed with flavor.

One of her other proudest moments has probably been that esteemed Pastry Chef, Stuart Whitfield, is one of our OG supporters. I remember he ordered cookies back when we were running this out of our apartment. After handing him his cookies and closing the door, a friend at our house asked her if I knew who he was. When she told me, I didnt even know what to do with myself! Its been 3 years, and I will forever be honored every single time I see him at one of our events. There really arent words to describe how it feels to have a chef with such culinary experience support you. Sorry Stuart, we had to put you on blast with that one!!! lol!

What are your plans for the future of your cookie enterprise?

We dont know what the future holds. The Universe will provide us with whatever we are supposed to be doing, whenever things are supposed to happen. One thing we know is that we have to always enjoy what we are doing and have fun. Life is too short!

What are your most popular cookie flavors right now?

Ube N Cream; an ube and cookies & cream combo. Campfire Cookie Butter; inspired by cookie butter-smores. and Miss Betty Lee; lemon creme & raspberry

What are some upcoming plans for the menu?

As always were going to be keeping it fresh and full of surprises!

Thank you Ashley and Israel of Phat Ash Bakes for speaking with us at Tasty Chomps!!

For more info, visit: phatashbakes.com

Photos by Tiffany Nguyen @bytiffanynguyen
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most transformative technologies of the current time. From improving customer experiences to creating more efficient business operations, the possibilities of AI are endless. Here are some companies that are leading the way in AI and driving transformation and innovation, including Google, IBM, Tesla, Adverb and more.

Google

Google is one of the most well-known tech companies. From self-driving cars to natural language processing, Google is using AI to improve the way we interact with technology and the world around us.

IBM

IBM has been a leader in AI research since the 1950s. Today, their AI technology is being used in industries ranging from healthcare to finance.

Addverb

Addverb is a home-grown Indian company that specializes in providing robotic and automation solutions for manufacturing and supply chain industries. Leveraging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and IoT, they offer end-to-end automation solutions.

FreshToHome

The world's largest fully integrated eCommerce brand for meat and seafood has innovatively applied AI on its platform with their Commodities Exchange platform. The platform allows fishermen and farmers to electronically auction their produce. This process eliminates middlemen and ensures that the customers get the best products within 24  36 hours of sourcing.

Tesla

Tesla is famous for electric cars, and they are also using AI to develop self-driving technology. Their advanced AI algorithms help Tesla vehicles navigate the road and avoid accidents, making transportation safer and more efficient.

Universal Robots

Universal Robots is a leading provider of collaborative robots (cobots) used across a wide range of industries and in education. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Odense, Denmark, Universal Robots aims to create a world where people work with robots, not like robots. Its mission is simple: Automation for anyone. Anywhere.

EnKash

Enkash is an Indian fintech company that uses AI technology to provide smarter financial solutions for businesses. It offers an innovative spend management platform that automates financial processes, including expense management, invoice processing, and provides smart corporate cards.

Amazon

Amazon has been using AI for years to personalize recommendations and improve customer experiences. They're also developing new AI-powered services like Amazon Go, which uses computer vision to create checkout-free shopping experiences.

Microsoft

Its AI capabilities are built into many products, including Office 365, Azure, and Dynamics 365. They're also working on cutting-edge AI research projects, like using AI to create better cancer treatments.
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:

Jonas Ivarsson and Oskar Lindwall. Credit: University of Gothenburg

As AI becomes increasingly realistic, our trust in those with whom we communicate may be compromised. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have examined how advanced AI systems impact our trust in the individuals we interact with.

In one scenario, a would-be scammer, believing he is calling an elderly man, is instead connected to a computer system that communicates through pre-recorded loops. The scammer spends considerable time attempting the fraud, patiently listening to the "man's" somewhat confusing and repetitive stories. Oskar Lindwall, a professor of communication at the University of Gothenburg, observes that it often takes a long time for people to realize they are interacting with a technical system.

He has, in collaboration with Professor of informatics Jonas Ivarsson, written an article titled "Suspicious Minds: The Problem of Trust and Conversational Agents," published in the journal Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW), exploring how individuals interpret and relate to situations where one of the parties might be an AI agent. The article highlights the negative consequences of harboring suspicion toward others, such as the damage it can cause to relationships.

Ivarsson provides an example of a romantic relationship where trust issues arise, leading to jealousy and an increased tendency to search for evidence of deception. The authors argue that being unable to fully trust a conversational partner's intentions and identity may result in excessive suspicion even when there is no reason for it.

Their study discovered that during interactions between two humans, some behaviors were interpreted as signs that one of them was actually a robot.

The researchers suggest that a pervasive design perspective is driving the development of AI with increasingly human-like features. While this may be appealing in some contexts, it can also be problematic, particularly when it is unclear who you are communicating with. Ivarsson questions whether AI should have such human-like voices, as they create a sense of intimacy and lead people to form impressions based on the voice alone.

In the case of the would-be fraudster calling the "older man," the scam is only exposed after a long time, which Lindwall and Ivarsson attribute to the believability of the human voice and the assumption that the confused behavior is due to age. Once an AI has a voice, we infer attributes such as gender, age, and socio-economic background, making it harder to identify that we are interacting with a computer.

The researchers propose creating AI with well-functioning and eloquent voices that are still clearly synthetic, increasing transparency.

Communication with others involves not only deception but also relationship-building and joint meaning-making. The uncertainty of whether one is talking to a human or a computer affects this aspect of communication. While it might not matter in some situations, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, other forms of therapy that require more human connection may be negatively impacted.

More information: Jonas Ivarsson et al, Suspicious Minds: the Problem of Trust and Conversational Agents, Computer Supported Cooperative Work (CSCW) (2023). DOI: 10.1007/s10606-023-09465-8
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 person uses a smartphone in Chicago, Sept. 16, 2017. Most Democrats and Republicans agree that the federal government should better regulate the biggest technology companies, particularly social media platforms. But there is very little consensus on how it should be done. Credit: AP Photo, File

Should TikTok be banned? Should younger children be prevented from engaging with social media? Can the government make sure private information is secure? What about brand new artificial intelligence interfaces? Or should users be regulating themselves, leaving the government out of it?

Tech regulation has been gathering momentum on Capitol Hill amid concerns about China's ownership of TikTok and as parents are growing increasingly worried about the effects of social media on a post-pandemic mental health crisis. Noting that many young people are struggling, President Joe Biden said in his February State of the Union speech that "it's time" to pass bipartisan legislation to impose stricter limits on the collection of personal data and ban targeted advertising to children.

"We must finally hold social media companies accountable for the experiment they are running on our children for profit," Biden said.

Lawmakers have introduced a slew of bipartisan bills to regulate tech, and it's one of the few major policy issues where Republicans and Democrats generally align, boosting hopes for compromise in a split Congress.

Still, any effort to take on the mammoth industry would face major obstacles. Technology companies have aggressively fought any federal interference, and they have operated for decades now without strict federal oversight, making any new rules or guidelines that much more complicated.

A look at some of the areas of potential regulation:

From left, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Sen. Christopher Murphy, D-Conn., Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., and Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, who have introduced legislation to protect kids on social media, are interviewed by the Associated Press, Wednesday, May 3, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Credit: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File

Children's safety

Several House and Senate bills would try to make social media, and the internet in general, safer for children who will inevitably be online. Lawmakers cite numerous examples of teenagers who have taken their own lives after cyber bullying or died engaging in dangerous behavior encouraged on social media.

In the Senate, at least two competing bills are focused on children's online safety. Legislation by Sens. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., and Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., approved by the Senate Commerce Committee last year would require social media companies to be more transparent about their operations and enable child safety settings by default. Minors would have the option to disable addictive product features and algorithms that push certain content.

The idea, the senators say, is that platforms should be "safe by design." The legislation, which Blumenthal and Blackburn reintroduced last week, would also obligate social media companies to prevent certain dangers to minorsincluding promotion of suicide, disordered eating, substance abuse, sexual exploitation and other illegal behaviors.

A second bill introduced last month by four senatorsDemocratic Sens. Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Republican Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Katie Britt of Alabamawould take a more aggressive approach, prohibiting children under the age of 13 from using social media platforms and requiring parental consent for teenagers. It would also prohibit the companies from recommending content through algorithms for users under the age of 18.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., has not weighed in on specific legislation but told reporters on Tuesday, "I believe we need some kind of child protections" on the internet.

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew testifies during a hearing of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on the platform's consumer privacy and data security practices and impact on children, Thursday, March 23, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. Lawmakers introduced a raft of bills to either ban TikTok or make it easier to ban it after the March House hearing with Chew. Credit: AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File

Critics of the bills, including some civil rights groups and advocacy groups aligned with tech companies, say the proposals could threaten teens' online privacy and prevent them from accessing content that could help them, such as resources for those considering suicide or grappling with their sexual and gender identity.

"Lawmakers should focus on educating and empowering families to control their online experience," said Carl Szabo of NetChoice, a group aligned with Meta, TikTok, Google and Amazon, among other companies.

Data privacy

Biden's State of the Union remarks appeared to be a nod toward legislation by Sens. Ed Markey, D-Mass., and Bill Cassidy, R-La., that would expand child privacy protections online, prohibiting companies from collecting personal data from younger teenagers and banning targeted advertising to children and teens. The bill, also reintroduced last week, would create a so-called "eraser button" allowing parents and kids to eliminate personal data, when possible.

A broader House effort would attempt to give adults as well as children more control over their data with what lawmakers call a "national privacy standard." Legislation that passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee with wide bipartisan support last year would try to minimize data collected and make it illegal to target ads to children, usurping state laws that have tried to put privacy restrictions in place. But the bill, which would have also given consumers more rights to file lawsuits over privacy violations, never reached the House floor.

Prospects for the House legislation are unclear now that Republicans have the majority. House Energy and Commerce Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash.., has made the issue a priority, holding several hearings on data privacy. But the committee has not yet moved forward with a new bill.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., left, and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., right speak to former Facebook data scientist Frances Haugen, center, during a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, Oct. 5, 2021, in Washington. Legislation by Blumenthal and Blackburn approved by the Senate Commerce Committee last year would require social media companies to be more transparent about their operations and enable child safety settings by default. Credit: AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File

TikTok ban/China

Lawmakers introduced a raft of bills to either ban TikTok or make it easier to ban it after a combative March House hearing in which lawmakers from both parties grilled TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew over his company's ties to China's communist government, data security and harmful content on the app.

Chew attempted to assure lawmakers that the hugely popular video-sharing app prioritizes user safety and should not be banned due to its Chinese connections. But the testimony gave new momentum to the efforts.

Soon after the hearing, Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican, tried to force a Senate vote on legislation that would ban TikTok from operating in the United States. But he was blocked by a fellow Republican, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, who said that a ban would violate the Constitution and anger the millions of voters who use the app.

Another bill sponsored by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida would, like Hawley's bill, ban U.S. economic transactions with TikTok, but it would also create a new framework for the executive branch to block any foreign apps deemed hostile. His bill is cosponsored by Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., and Mike Gallagher, R-Wis.

There is broad Senate support for bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, D-Va., and South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the No. 2 Senate Republican, that does not specifically call out TikTok but would give the Commerce Department power to review and potentially restrict foreign threats to technology platforms.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., arrives to speak with reporters at the Capitol in Washington, May 3, 2023. Schumer has made the emerging technology a priority, arguing that the United States needs to stay ahead of China and other countries that are eyeing regulations on AI products. He has been working with AI experts and has released a general framework of what regulation could look like, including increased disclosure of the people and data involved in developing the technology, more transparency and explanation for how the bots arrive at responses.Credit: AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File

The White House has signaled it would back that bill, but it is unclear if it will be brought up in the Senate or if it could garner support among House Republicans.

TikTok has launched an extensive lobbying campaign for its survival, including by harnessing influencers and young voters to argue that the app isn't harmful.

Artificial intelligence

A newer question for Congress is whether lawmakers should move to regulate artificial intelligence as rapidly developing and potentially revolutionary products like AI chatbot ChatGPT begin to enter the marketplace and can in many ways mimic human behavior.

Senate leader Schumer has made the emerging technology a priority, arguing that the United States needs to stay ahead of China and other countries that are eyeing regulations on AI products. He has been working with AI experts and has released a general framework of what regulation could look like, including increased disclosure of the people and data involved in developing the technology, more transparency and explanation for how the bots arrive at responses.

Schumer said any eventual regulation should "prevent potentially catastrophic damage to our country while simultaneously making sure the U.S. advances and leads in this transformative technology."

The White House has been focused on the issue as well, with a recent announcement of a $140 million investment to establish seven new AI research institutes. Vice President Kamala Harris met Thursday with the heads of Google, Microsoft and other companies developing AI products.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A team led by Prof. Song Li from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) proposed the concept of intercalant-induced V t 2g orbital occupation and developed an NH 4 +-intercalated vanadium oxide (NH 4 +-V 2 O 5 ) for high-performance aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs). This work was published in PNAS.

ZIBs, due to their safety, non-toxicity, and high theoretical capacity, have become one of the most promising sustainable energy storage technologies. Among various electrode materials for ZIBs, vanadium oxides have been widely studied as cathode materials for ZIBs due to their flexible crystal structure and multivalence of vanadium.

Based on the ion or molecular pre-intercalation strategy, the problems of insufficient lattice space and low electronic conductivity of cathode materials can be effectively solved, thereby further improving battery performance.

However, current research on intercalation cathode materials mostly focuses on the enhancement of capacity by interlayer space expansion. Therefore, it is important to develop advanced in-situ characterization techniques, which assist in studying the intrinsic structural variation of electrode materials induced by intercalants from the perspective of atomic orbitals This will become the key to the design of high-performance cathode materials in the future.

In this work, researchers introduced a variety of in-situ and ex-situ synchrotron radiation spectroscopy techniques, revealing the change of V 3dt 2g orbital occupation in V 2 O 5 after the intercalation of NH 4 +, as well as the reversible evolution law during the charge and discharge process.

They found that NH 4 + intercalation largely induced the structural distortion of the V-O bond, which further led to a rearrangement of the electronic structure and facilitated the occupation of the 3dxy vacancy state in the Vt 2g orbital. The Vt 2g orbital occupation greatly improved the electrical conductivity of the material.

Additionally, the researchers found that NH 4 + intercalation resulted in the broadened layer spacing, which significantly accelerated the electron transfer and Zn-ion migration, realizing the ultra-high multiplicity performance of the zinc ion battery.

The experimental results showed that the specific capacity of the ammonium intercalated vanadium pentoxide (NH 4 +-V 2 O 5 ) cathode material remains the rate capability at 101.0 mA h g-1 at a current density of 200 C, with a charging time of 18 s.

This study provides a better understanding of the mechanism of storing Zn 2 + in intercalated V 2 O 5 materials, and lays a foundation for the design of high-performance intercalated cathode materials of ZIBs.

More information: Yixiu Wang et al, Intercalant-induced V t 2 g orbital occupation in vanadium oxide cathode toward fast-charging aqueous zinc-ion batteries, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2217208120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

New York Attorney General Letitia James proposed a state law to tighten rules over cryptocurrency companies in her latest swing at an industry she claims is suffering from "rampant fraud and dysfunction."

Under her proposal, New York would require independent public audits of crypto exchanges and bar people from owning both brokerages and tokens to prevent conflicts of interest. In a statement Friday, James called her proposal "the strongest and most comprehensive set of regulations on cryptocurrency in the nation."

The measures, which first need to be adopted by state lawmakers, also would require crypto platforms to reimburse customers who are victims of fraud and strengthen the authority of the New York State Department of Financial Services to regulate digital assets, according to the statement.

"Millions of investors have lost hundreds of billions in the value of their cryptocurrency investments because of rampant fraud, including market manipulation, hacking, and opaque business practices," James said.

According to the attorney general, her proposal will be submitted to lawmakers for the 2023 legislative session.

The push for stricter rules comes a few months after James sued crypto platform CoinEx and KuCoin, one of the largest and most popular crypto exchanges, alleging they failed to properly register their activities. Another suit against crypto companies Nexo Inc. and Nexo Capital Inc. resulted in a settlement in January of up to $24 million for New York and nine other states.

CRPTO Act

The attorney general's propose legislationdubbed Crypto Regulation, Protection, Transparency, and Oversight (CRPTO)would also prevent crypto brokers and marketplaces from trading in their own accounts and prohibit brokers from borrowing or lending customer assets, according to the statement.

"Rampant fraud and dysfunction have become the hallmarks of cryptocurrency and it is time to bring law and order to the multi-billion-dollar industry," James said in the statement. "New York investors should have the peace of mind that there are safeguards in place to protect them and their money."

James has frequently said she aims to reign in the crypto industry to prevent abuses. Her suit against KuCoin is among the first to claim that Ether, the second-largest crypto token by value, is a security. The question of what crypto assets regulators consider to be securitiesand thus subject to jurisdiction by the US Securities and Exchange Commissionis being interrogated on multiple fronts and is the subject of active litigation.

The attorney general has said that protecting consumers from wrongdoing in the crypto industry is a key goal and part of her overall mandate to protect all state residents, particularly vulnerable ones.

"While there are millions of investors who have lost significant investments because of these failures, lower income investors and people of color have been disproportionately harmed by the risks of crypto," she said.

2023 Bloomberg L.P.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(CNN)  The Arab League has re-admitted Syria after an 11-year absence, the organization said Sunday, following an extraordinary meeting at the Arab League's headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.

The re-entry comes with immediate effect, after Syria was suspended during a violent crackdown on anti-government protests.

The Arab League is an organization of Middle Eastern and African countries and the Palestine Liberation Organization. Its purpose is to promote closer political, economic, cultural and social relations among the members.

Member states agreed during Sunday's meeting to "resume the participation of the delegations of the government of the Syrian Arab Republic in the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States," according to an Arab League statement.

The Arab League also stressed the need to take "practical and effective steps" to resolve the Syrian crisis, the statement added.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad could participate in the upcoming Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia if he is invited and if he wants to attend, Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit told journalists Sunday.

"Syria, from tonight, is a full member of the Arab league, and starting tomorrow they have the right to participate in any meeting. When the host nation, in this case Saudi Arabia, sends the invitation, (Assad) can attend if he wishes to," Gheit said.

Officials and analysts have said that Syria's re-admission into the Arab League, while symbolic, comes with the possibility it could enable Assad's rehabilitation internationally, and potentially allow the removal of crippling sanctions against his regime.

Speaking to CNN earlier this month, HA Hellyer, Middle East scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and at Cambridge University, said Syria's return to the Arab League "paves the way for member states who might have been holding back to engage more directly with Assad's regime."

"It also makes it easier for non-member states, like Turkey and others, to argue that a new modus vivendi is in order," he added.

Syria has been under crippling Western sanctions for years, the most prominent being the US' 2019 Caesar Act, which imposed wide-ranging sanctions that restricted individuals, companies or governments from economic activities assisting Assad's war effort. The act rendered the entire economy untouchable.

The UN says the levels of poverty and food insecurity faced by Syrians today are unprecedented. The World Food Programme estimates that as of 2022 more than 12 million Syrians  more than half of the country's population  are food insecure.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Arab League readmits Syria after 11-year absence"
Pinnacle West Capital (NYSE:PNW  Get Rating) updated its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $3.95-$4.15 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.06. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Pinnacle West Capital also updated its FY23 guidance to $3.95.4.15 EPS.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have commented on the company. Credit Suisse Group upgraded Pinnacle West Capital from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and upped their price target for the stock from $77.00 to $80.00 in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. StockNews.com began coverage on Pinnacle West Capital in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on Pinnacle West Capital from $71.00 to $78.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. Bank of America increased their target price on Pinnacle West Capital from $69.00 to $76.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, Mizuho cut their target price on Pinnacle West Capital from $76.00 to $74.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 2nd. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $74.00.

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Pinnacle West Capital Price Performance

NYSE PNW traded up $0.43 during trading on Friday, hitting $80.12. 495,621 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 656,231. The company has a market capitalization of $9.07 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.59, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.64 and a beta of 0.46. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $78.10 and a 200-day simple moving average of $75.57. The company has a quick ratio of 0.74, a current ratio of 0.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26. Pinnacle West Capital has a 12-month low of $59.03 and a 12-month high of $81.63.

Pinnacle West Capital Dividend Announcement

Pinnacle West Capital ( NYSE:PNW Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported ($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.03 by ($0.06). The company had revenue of $944.60 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $808.33 million. Pinnacle West Capital had a net margin of 10.33% and a return on equity of 7.50%. Pinnacle West Capitals revenue for the quarter was up 20.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.15 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that Pinnacle West Capital will post 4.04 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 1st will be paid a $0.865 dividend. This represents a $3.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.32%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 28th. Pinnacle West Capitals payout ratio is 84.60%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Pinnacle West Capital

Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of PNW. Voya Investment Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Pinnacle West Capital by 5.3% during the 4th quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 42,619 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $3,241,000 after acquiring an additional 2,131 shares during the last quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. lifted its stake in shares of Pinnacle West Capital by 11.0% during the 4th quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. now owns 56,314 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $4,142,000 after acquiring an additional 5,592 shares during the last quarter. Linden Thomas Advisory Services LLC bought a new stake in shares of Pinnacle West Capital during the 4th quarter worth approximately $660,000. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main bought a new stake in shares of Pinnacle West Capital during the 4th quarter worth approximately $472,000. Finally, American Trust bought a new stake in shares of Pinnacle West Capital during the 4th quarter worth approximately $393,000. 85.21% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Pinnacle West Capital

(Get Rating)

Pinnacle West Capital Corp. is a holding company, which engages in providing energy and energy-related products. It offers regulated retail and wholesale electricity businesses and related activities, such as electricity generation, transmission and distribution through its subsidiary, Arizona Public Service Co The company was founded on February 20, 1985, and is headquartered in Phoenix, AZ.

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Skeena Resources Limited (SKE.V) (CVE:SKE  Get Rating) Director Walter Coles Jr. sold 8,900 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, May 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$10.21, for a total transaction of C$90,877.90.

Skeena Resources Limited (SKE.V) Stock Performance

Shares of CVE SKE traded down C$0.15 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting C$2.62. The company had a trading volume of 258,371 shares, compared to its average volume of 416,331. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 8.52, a current ratio of 2.28 and a quick ratio of 1.95. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is C$2.62 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$2.62. Skeena Resources Limited has a 12 month low of C$0.38 and a 12 month high of C$3.12. The firm has a market cap of C$431.26 million and a P/E ratio of -9.63.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Scotiabank increased their target price on shares of Skeena Resources Limited (SKE.V) from C$16.00 to C$16.50 in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. BMO Capital Markets increased their target price on shares of Skeena Resources Limited (SKE.V) from C$15.00 to C$16.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$15.92.

About Skeena Resources Limited (SKE.V)

Skeena Resources Limited, a junior mining exploration company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of base and precious metal properties in Canada. The company holds 100% interests in the Snip gold mine covering an area of approximately 1,932 hectares; the Spectrum-GJ copper-gold properties covering an area of 43,500 hectares; and the Porter Idaho silver property that consists of 46 crown-granted mineral claims; and Blackdome gold mine property.

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(CNN)  Ethnic violence in the Indian state of Manipur has killed more than 50 people, left hundreds hospitalized, and displaced 23,000, according to hospital officials and the Indian army.

At least 55 people have been left dead and a further 260 hospitalized since violence broke out between members of the Kuki and Meitei ethnic groups earlier this week, hospital officials in the city of Imphal said on Sunday.

The Indian military, meanwhile, said that 23,000 civilians had fled the fighting, with displaced people being housed on military bases and garrisons in the state.

The two ethnic groups have been clashing in the streets of Imphal in India's east and elsewhere.

Gunshot wounds are the most common injury, according to officials at Imphal hospitals the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences and Churachandpur District Hospital.

"Most of the patients are coming in with severe bullet injuries or having been hit in the head with lathis [sticks]," Dr Mang Hatzow of Churachandpur District Hospital in Manipur told CNN.

Video and photos broadcast on local television showed vehicles and buildings set on fire, with thick black smoke billowing from the streets.

Indian army troops have been deployed to the streets and a five-day mobile internet blackout is in force.

A youth tribal leader who works in Imphal told CNN his house had been vandalized and ransacked on May 4 and that since then he had been staying in an army camp.

"What we are witnessing here unfortunately is there seems to be a very systematic, well-planned series of attacks. The execution is almost clinical and they know exactly the houses where people from tribal communities reside," said the leader, who asked to not be identified due to fears for his safety.

"A lot of houses are burnt, all our churches have been vandalized, some have been burnt. I barely escaped -- the mob was already in the house. I climbed the fence over to the neighbors' house. I just came with my laptop bag to this camp. I don't have anything."

He said there were about 5,500 people staying in his camp and that there were about six or seven camps in Imphal in total.

"There have been so many deaths," he added. "A mother and son they were on their way to a camp. On their way, a mob encountered them and beat the son to death. The mother was trying to protect the son, she was killed too."

CNN reached out to the state government of Manipur and the Indian army for comment on Sunday. There was no immediate response from the state government.

The army said it had rescued a total of 23,000 civilians and moved them to operating bases and military garrisons. It added that there was a "ray of hope" and a lull in the fighting due to the rescue work carried out by the 120-125 Army and Assam Rifles, which had been "working tirelessly for the past 96 hours to rescue civilians across all communities, curb violence and restore normalcy."

It said it had also enhanced surveillance efforts using drones and helicopters.

Earlier this week the state's governor, Anusuiya Uikey, issued "shoot-at-sight" orders in an effort to bring the situation under control.

The orders were authorized for "extreme cases whereby all forms of persuasion, warning, reasonable force etc. had been exhausted" and the situation "could not be controlled," a statement from Manipur's home department said.

Skirmishes first broke out after thousands of tribal people took part in a rally organized by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur, against the potential inclusion of the state's majority Meitei ethnic group in India's "Scheduled Tribe" grouping.

The Meitei community, who make up about 50% of the state's population, have for years campaigned to be recognized as a scheduled tribe, which would give them access to wider benefits including health, education and government jobs.

Scheduled tribes are among the most socio-economically disadvantaged groups in India and have historically been denied access to education and job opportunities.

If the Meitei community are given scheduled tribe status, other tribal groups say they fear they will not have a fair chance for jobs and other benefits.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Over 50 dead, hundreds hospitalized and 23,000 displaced by ethnic violence in Indias Manipur."
Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC UT bought a new position in FactSet Research Systems Inc. (NYSE:FDS  Get Rating) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 734 shares of the business services providers stock, valued at approximately $294,000.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Meiji Yasuda Asset Management Co Ltd. raised its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 66.9% in the 3rd quarter. Meiji Yasuda Asset Management Co Ltd. now owns 4,479 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,792,000 after buying an additional 1,795 shares during the period. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 6.6% in the 4th quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 693 shares of the business services providers stock worth $278,000 after buying an additional 43 shares during the period. Chevy Chase Trust Holdings LLC raised its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Chevy Chase Trust Holdings LLC now owns 23,566 shares of the business services providers stock worth $9,429,000 after buying an additional 305 shares during the period. Kingsview Wealth Management LLC raised its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 3.5% in the 3rd quarter. Kingsview Wealth Management LLC now owns 5,932 shares of the business services providers stock worth $2,373,000 after buying an additional 202 shares during the period. Finally, Synovus Financial Corp raised its position in shares of FactSet Research Systems by 82.8% in the 4th quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 1,605 shares of the business services providers stock worth $644,000 after buying an additional 727 shares during the period. 89.98% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at FactSet Research Systems

In other FactSet Research Systems news, EVP Goran Skoko sold 7,969 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $412.96, for a total value of $3,290,878.24. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 4,352 shares in the company, valued at $1,797,201.92. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other news, EVP Goran Skoko sold 7,969 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $412.96, for a total transaction of $3,290,878.24. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 4,352 shares in the company, valued at $1,797,201.92. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, EVP Robert J. Robie sold 2,457 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $412.31, for a total transaction of $1,013,045.67. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 1,436 shares in the company, valued at $592,077.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 14,754 shares of company stock valued at $6,087,634 over the last quarter. 0.97% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

FactSet Research Systems Trading Up 0.5 %

Shares of NYSE:FDS opened at $407.70 on Monday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $409.00 and a two-hundred day moving average of $420.12. The firm has a market capitalization of $15.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.23, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.77 and a beta of 0.83. FactSet Research Systems Inc. has a 12-month low of $345.92 and a 12-month high of $474.13. The company has a quick ratio of 2.09, a current ratio of 2.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08.

FactSet Research Systems (NYSE:FDS  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 23rd. The business services provider reported $3.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.65 by $0.15. The business had revenue of $515.10 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $510.79 million. FactSet Research Systems had a net margin of 22.30% and a return on equity of 40.18%. FactSet Research Systemss quarterly revenue was up 19.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $3.27 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that FactSet Research Systems Inc. will post 14.63 EPS for the current fiscal year.

FactSet Research Systems Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, May 31st will be paid a $0.98 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 30th. This represents a $3.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.96%. This is a boost from FactSet Research Systemss previous quarterly dividend of $0.89. FactSet Research Systemss payout ratio is presently 30.90%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several analysts recently issued reports on the company. Credit Suisse Group upgraded FactSet Research Systems from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and increased their price target for the company from $485.00 to $500.00 in a report on Thursday, January 12th. Stifel Nicolaus lowered their price target on FactSet Research Systems from $415.00 to $408.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Friday, March 24th. CICC Research assumed coverage on FactSet Research Systems in a report on Friday, March 17th. They issued an outperform rating for the company. Redburn Partners upgraded FactSet Research Systems from a sell rating to a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on FactSet Research Systems in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, FactSet Research Systems presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $448.86.

FactSet Research Systems Company Profile

(Get Rating)

FactSet Research Systems Inc (the Company or FactSet) is a global provider of integrated financial information, analytical applications and services for the investment and corporate communities. Since inception, global financial professionals have utilized the Companys content and multi-asset class solutions across each stage of the investment process.

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Arcadia Investment Management Corp MI grew its position in shares of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH  Get Rating) by 961.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 435 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock after purchasing an additional 394 shares during the quarter. Arcadia Investment Management Corp MIs holdings in UnitedHealth Group were worth $231,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership grew its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 1,682.4% in the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 2,691,542 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $1,372,606,000 after acquiring an additional 2,540,538 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its position in UnitedHealth Group by 214.1% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 1,648,123 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $832,368,000 after purchasing an additional 1,123,340 shares during the last quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can purchased a new position in shares of UnitedHealth Group during the third quarter valued at approximately $537,996,000. Jennison Associates LLC lifted its stake in UnitedHealth Group by 28.3% in the third quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 4,752,598 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $2,400,252,000 after acquiring an additional 1,047,892 shares during the period. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 1.0% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 82,969,869 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $41,903,103,000 after purchasing an additional 851,994 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 86.31% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $484.58, for a total transaction of $488,456.64. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 10,359 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,019,764.22. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Andrew Witty sold 6,160 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $487.49, for a total value of $3,002,938.40. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 86,564 shares in the company, valued at $42,199,084.36. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP Erin Mcsweeney sold 1,008 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $484.58, for a total value of $488,456.64. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 10,359 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,019,764.22. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 8,852 shares of company stock valued at $4,313,962. 0.40% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

UnitedHealth Group Stock Down 0.3 %

Shares of UnitedHealth Group stock opened at $492.68 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated has a twelve month low of $449.70 and a twelve month high of $558.10. The company has a market cap of $458.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 0.68. The companys 50 day moving average is $486.20 and its 200 day moving average is $504.84.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.26 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.24 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $91.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $89.77 billion. UnitedHealth Group had a return on equity of 27.05% and a net margin of 6.16%. UnitedHealth Groups revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $5.49 earnings per share. Research analysts anticipate that UnitedHealth Group Incorporated will post 24.98 EPS for the current year.

UnitedHealth Group Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 21st. Stockholders of record on Monday, March 13th were paid a dividend of $1.65 per share. This represents a $6.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.34%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 10th. UnitedHealth Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 30.18%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have weighed in on UNH. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price objective on UnitedHealth Group from $617.00 to $627.00 in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Loop Capital upped their price target on UnitedHealth Group from $590.00 to $600.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, April 17th. Stephens reaffirmed an overweight rating and issued a $605.00 target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research report on Tuesday, February 28th. TD Cowen dropped their price objective on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $596.00 to $562.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 17th. Finally, StockNews.com raised UnitedHealth Group from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, UnitedHealth Group presently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $600.88.

About UnitedHealth Group

(Get Rating)

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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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding UNH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH  Get Rating).

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Yum! Brands (NYSE:YUM  Get Rating) had its price target upped by Bank of America from $145.00 to $151.00 in a report published on Thursday, The Fly reports.

Several other analysts also recently commented on YUM. UBS Group raised their target price on Yum! Brands from $148.00 to $156.00 in a research note on Thursday. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on Yum! Brands from $137.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Barclays raised their target price on Yum! Brands from $136.00 to $138.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their target price on Yum! Brands from $137.00 to $143.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, February 13th. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Yum! Brands from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, April 27th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $146.89.

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Yum! Brands Stock Performance

Shares of YUM opened at $137.49 on Thursday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $131.94 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $128.44. The firm has a market capitalization of $38.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.35, a PEG ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 1.00. Yum! Brands has a 52 week low of $103.96 and a 52 week high of $143.24.

Yum! Brands Increases Dividend

Yum! Brands ( NYSE:YUM Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The restaurant operator reported $1.06 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.14 by ($0.08). The firm had revenue of $1.65 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.62 billion. Yum! Brands had a net margin of 17.67% and a negative return on equity of 14.97%. The firms revenue was up 6.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.05 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that Yum! Brands will post 5.08 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 10th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 22nd were given a dividend of $0.605 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 21st. This is a boost from Yum! Brandss previous quarterly dividend of $0.57. This represents a $2.42 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.76%. Yum! Brandss dividend payout ratio is currently 56.94%.

Insider Activity

In other news, COO Tracy L. Skeans sold 3,925 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $130.00, for a total value of $510,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 14,393 shares in the company, valued at $1,871,090. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, COO Tracy L. Skeans sold 3,925 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $130.00, for a total value of $510,250.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 14,393 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,871,090. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Scott Catlett sold 2,553 shares of Yum! Brands stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $140.00, for a total transaction of $357,420.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 11,724 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,641,360. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 26,428 shares of company stock worth $3,524,225 over the last three months. Insiders own 0.31% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Yum! Brands

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Korea Investment CORP increased its holdings in shares of Yum! Brands by 102.4% during the third quarter. Korea Investment CORP now owns 254,376 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $27,050,000 after purchasing an additional 128,674 shares during the period. International Assets Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in Yum! Brands during the 4th quarter worth about $297,000. Castle Rock Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Yum! Brands during the 4th quarter worth about $239,000. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. boosted its position in Yum! Brands by 16.6% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. now owns 1,472,973 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $156,636,000 after acquiring an additional 210,170 shares during the period. Finally, J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. boosted its position in Yum! Brands by 11.2% during the 3rd quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 3,505 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $373,000 after acquiring an additional 353 shares during the period. 77.54% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Yum! Brands Company Profile

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Yum! Brands, Inc operates as a service restaurant company. The firm engages in the development, operation, franchise, and licenses of a system of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: KFC Division, Pizza Hut Division, Taco Bell Division, and Habit Burger Grill Division. The KFC Division segment consists of all operations of the KFC concept.

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Shore Capital reissued their house stock rating on shares of Begbies Traynor Group (LON:BEG  Get Rating) in a report issued on Thursday, MarketBeat reports.

Separately, Canaccord Genuity Group reiterated a buy rating and set a GBX 180 ($2.25) price target on shares of Begbies Traynor Group in a report on Monday, February 27th.

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Begbies Traynor Group Price Performance

Shares of LON BEG opened at GBX 135 ($1.69) on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.35, a current ratio of 1.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 18.88. The firms 50-day simple moving average is GBX 126.66 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 134.94. Begbies Traynor Group has a fifty-two week low of GBX 113.40 ($1.42) and a fifty-two week high of GBX 156 ($1.95). The stock has a market cap of 208.59 million, a P/E ratio of 6,750.00, a P/E/G ratio of 2.95 and a beta of 0.26.

Begbies Traynor Group Cuts Dividend

Insider Transactions at Begbies Traynor Group

The business also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 5th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 6th were paid a GBX 1.20 ($0.01) dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 6th. This represents a yield of 0.83%. Begbies Traynor Groups dividend payout ratio is 20,000.00%.

In other Begbies Traynor Group news, insider John M. May acquired 31,221 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of GBX 120 ($1.50) per share, for a total transaction of 37,465.20 ($46,808.10). 26.07% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

About Begbies Traynor Group

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Begbies Traynor Group plc provides various professional services to businesses, professional advisors, large corporations, and financial institutions in the United Kingdom. The company operates through two segments, Business Recovery and Financial Advisory Services; and Property Advisory and Transactional Services.

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Birchcliff Energy (TSE:BIR  Get Rating) is scheduled to post its quarterly earnings results after the market closes on Wednesday, May 10th. Analysts expect Birchcliff Energy to post earnings of C$0.08 per share for the quarter.

Birchcliff Energy (TSE:BIR  Get Rating) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 15th. The oil and natural gas company reported C$0.26 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.54 by C($0.28). Birchcliff Energy had a net margin of 46.60% and a return on equity of 30.34%. The business had revenue of C$320.36 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$433.50 million.

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Birchcliff Energy Price Performance

TSE BIR opened at C$7.80 on Monday. Birchcliff Energy has a 12 month low of C$7.47 and a 12 month high of C$12.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.03, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 0.97. The firm has a market capitalization of C$2.08 billion, a PE ratio of 3.28, a P/E/G ratio of 0.35 and a beta of 2.26. The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$8.11 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$8.98.

Birchcliff Energy Increases Dividend

Insider Buying and Selling at Birchcliff Energy

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 31st were issued a dividend of $0.20 per share. This is an increase from Birchcliff Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.02. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 10.26%. Birchcliff Energys payout ratio is presently 33.61%.

In other Birchcliff Energy news, Senior Officer Theo Van Der Werken sold 20,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$8.20, for a total transaction of C$164,000.00. Insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages have commented on BIR. Stifel Nicolaus cut shares of Birchcliff Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their price target for the company from C$9.00 to C$8.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. ATB Capital decreased their price objective on shares of Birchcliff Energy from C$11.50 to C$10.50 in a report on Monday, April 17th. Raymond James downgraded shares of Birchcliff Energy from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and decreased their price target for the stock from C$12.00 to C$11.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. Eight Capital dropped their target price on shares of Birchcliff Energy from C$15.00 to C$12.00 in a report on Thursday, March 16th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reduced their price target on shares of Birchcliff Energy from C$9.00 to C$8.75 in a research report on Monday, April 17th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of C$10.98.

Birchcliff Energy Company Profile

(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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NatWest Group plc (LON:NWG  Get Rating) has been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the twelve brokerages that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is GBX 340 ($4.25).

Several research firms have commented on NWG. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating on shares of NatWest Group in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of NatWest Group in a research note on Friday, March 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on shares of NatWest Group from GBX 340 ($4.25) to GBX 310 ($3.87) in a research note on Tuesday, May 2nd. Shore Capital reiterated a buy rating on shares of NatWest Group in a report on Friday, April 28th. Finally, Berenberg Bank reiterated a buy rating and set a GBX 360 ($4.50) price objective on shares of NatWest Group in a research note on Friday, April 28th.

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NatWest Group Trading Up 2.7 %

NWG opened at GBX 259.30 ($3.24) on Monday. The firms fifty day simple moving average is GBX 271.29 and its 200 day simple moving average is GBX 270.86. The stock has a market capitalization of 24.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 740.86, a P/E/G ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 1.30. NatWest Group has a 12 month low of GBX 200.13 ($2.50) and a 12 month high of GBX 313.10 ($3.91).

NatWest Group Increases Dividend

Insider Transactions at NatWest Group

The company also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, May 2nd. Investors of record on Thursday, March 16th were paid a GBX 10 ($0.12) dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 16th. This is an increase from NatWest Groups previous dividend of $3.50. This represents a yield of 3.27%. NatWest Groups payout ratio is 4,000.00%.

In other NatWest Group news, insider Frank Dangeard purchased 1,014 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 30th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 267 ($3.34) per share, with a total value of 2,707.38 ($3,382.53). In related news, insider Frank Dangeard acquired 1,014 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 30th. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 267 ($3.34) per share, for a total transaction of 2,707.38 ($3,382.53). Also, insider Roisin Donnelly acquired 7,318 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was bought at an average cost of GBX 272 ($3.40) per share, with a total value of 19,904.96 ($24,868.77). Insiders own 42.65% of the companys stock.

NatWest Group Company Profile

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NatWest Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services to personal, commercial, corporate, and institutional customers in the United Kingdom and internationally. It operates through Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, Private Banking, RBS International, and NatWest Markets segments.

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Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust (OTCMKTS:MGRUF  Get Rating) and Independence Realty Trust (NYSE:IRT  Get Rating) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, valuation, institutional ownership, risk, profitability, analyst recommendations and dividends.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust and Independence Realty Trusts top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust N/A N/A N/A $2.03 2.05 Independence Realty Trust $628.53 million 6.05 $117.25 million $0.23 73.66

Independence Realty Trust has higher revenue and earnings than Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust. Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Independence Realty Trust, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust 0 0 0 0 N/A Independence Realty Trust 0 4 4 0 2.50

This is a summary of current ratings and target prices for Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust and Independence Realty Trust, as provided by MarketBeat.

Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust presently has a consensus target price of $5.50, suggesting a potential upside of 32.21%. Independence Realty Trust has a consensus target price of $20.81, suggesting a potential upside of 22.86%. Given Morguard Real Estate Investment Trusts higher possible upside, equities research analysts clearly believe Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust is more favorable than Independence Realty Trust.

Profitability

This table compares Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust and Independence Realty Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust N/A N/A N/A Independence Realty Trust 8.02% 1.38% 0.79%

Dividends

Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust pays an annual dividend of $0.88 per share and has a dividend yield of 21.2%. Independence Realty Trust pays an annual dividend of $0.56 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.3%. Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust pays out 43.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Independence Realty Trust pays out 243.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Independence Realty Trust has increased its dividend for 1 consecutive years. Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

56.6% of Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 81.0% of Independence Realty Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.6% of Independence Realty Trust shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

Independence Realty Trust beats Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust on 9 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust

(Get Rating)

Morguard Real Estate Investment Trust is a closed-end investment trust company, which engages in owning, managing, and investing in a diversified real estate portfolio of commercial properties. Its real estate portfolio includes office properties in major urban centers. The company was founded on June 18, 1997 and is headquartered in Mississauga, Canada.

About Independence Realty Trust

(Get Rating)

Independence Realty Trust, Inc. is a real estate investment trust, which acquires, owns, operates, improves and manages multifamily apartment communities across non-gateway U.S. markets. It aims to provide stockholders risk-adjusted returns through diligent portfolio management, operational performance and consistent return of capital through distributions and capital appreciation. The company was founded on March 26, 2009 and is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA.

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H. Lundbeck A/S (OTCMKTS:HLUYY  Get Rating) and Atlantia (OTCMKTS:ATASY  Get Rating) are both large-cap medical companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, valuation, profitability, earnings, risk, institutional ownership and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for H. Lundbeck A/S and Atlantia, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score H. Lundbeck A/S 0 4 1 0 2.20 Atlantia 0 2 0 0 2.00

H. Lundbeck A/S presently has a consensus price target of $36.50, suggesting a potential upside of 65.91%. Atlantia has a consensus price target of $23.00, suggesting a potential upside of 93.12%. Given Atlantias higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Atlantia is more favorable than H. Lundbeck A/S.

Dividends

Valuation & Earnings

H. Lundbeck A/S pays an annual dividend of $0.20 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.9%. Atlantia pays an annual dividend of $0.26 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.2%. H. Lundbeck A/S pays out 22.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend.

This table compares H. Lundbeck A/S and Atlantias revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio H. Lundbeck A/S $2.59 billion 8.45 $209.69 million $0.88 25.00 Atlantia $8.42 billion 2.34 $740.62 million N/A N/A

Atlantia has higher revenue and earnings than H. Lundbeck A/S.

Profitability

This table compares H. Lundbeck A/S and Atlantias net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets H. Lundbeck A/S 6.74% 13.74% 7.16% Atlantia N/A N/A N/A

Volatility and Risk

H. Lundbeck A/S has a beta of 0.68, indicating that its stock price is 32% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Atlantia has a beta of 0.9, indicating that its stock price is 10% less volatile than the S&P 500.

About H. Lundbeck A/S

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H. Lundbeck A/S, a biopharmaceutical company, engages in the research, development, production, and sale of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders in Europe, North America, and internationally. The company's principal products include Abilify Maintena for schizophrenia; Brintellix/Trintellix to treat depression; Northera for the treatment of symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension; Vyepti for migraine prevention; and Rexulti/Rxulti to treat depression/schizophrenia. It also provides Azilect for treating Parkinson's disease; Cipralex/Lexapro for depression; Ebixa to treat Alzheimer's disease; Onfi for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome; Sabril for treating epilepsy; and Xenazine for chorea associated with Huntington's disease, as well as other products. The company sells its products primarily to distributors of pharmaceuticals, pharmacies, and hospitals. It has a partnership agreement with Verantos to focus on a study to enable real-world evidence in support of migraine therapy; and collaboration with Rgenta Therapeutics, Inc. The company was founded in 1915 and is headquartered in Valby, Denmark.

About Atlantia

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Atlantia SpA, through its subsidiaries, engages in the construction and operation of motorways, airports and transport infrastructure, parking areas, and intermodal systems worldwide. It operates and manages approximately 13,000 kilometers of toll motorways. The company manages, maintains, constructs, and widens related motorways operated under concession; and provides support for the Italian motorway operators. It also operates and expands Rome's Fiumicino and Ciampino airports; and operates the airports of Nice, Cannes-Mandelieu, and Saint-Tropez. In addition, the company engages in the design, project management, controlling, and maintenance of road and airport infrastructures; and operation of toll payment systems, as well as provides assistance and toll management services. Further, it operates free-flow tolling systems, traffic and transport management systems, and electronic payment systems. Additionally, the company offers insurance brokerage, as well as engineering services. Atlantia SpA was incorporated in 1950 and is headquartered in Rome, Italy.

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DNB Markets cut shares of YIT Oyj (OTCMKTS:YITYY  Get Rating) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report released on Thursday, The Fly reports.

YIT Oyj Stock Performance

Shares of YITYY stock opened at C$1.23 on Thursday. YIT Oyj has a twelve month low of C$1.23 and a twelve month high of C$1.23. The stocks fifty day moving average price is C$1.53.

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YIT Oyj Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 20th. Investors of record on Tuesday, March 21st were given a dividend of $0.0275 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, March 20th. This represents a yield of 2.83%. YIT Oyjs dividend payout ratio is currently 59.09%.

About YIT Oyj

YIT Oyj engages in the provision of construction services. It operates through the following segments: Housing Finland and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEE); Housing Russia; Business Premises; Infrastructure; Partnership Properties; and Other Items. The Housing Finland & CEE segment constructs and develops apartments and entire residential areas.

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Donaldson Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM  Get Rating) by 5.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 23,617 shares of the business services providers stock after acquiring an additional 1,198 shares during the quarter. Donaldson Capital Management LLCs holdings in Waste Management were worth $3,705,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Waste Management by 2.8% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 36,984,227 shares of the business services providers stock worth $5,925,244,000 after buying an additional 1,016,798 shares in the last quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership lifted its position in shares of Waste Management by 194.9% during the 1st quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,217,592 shares of the business services providers stock worth $192,988,000 after buying an additional 804,708 shares in the last quarter. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Waste Management by 3,120.2% during the 3rd quarter. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC now owns 600,443 shares of the business services providers stock worth $96,197,000 after buying an additional 581,797 shares in the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec lifted its position in shares of Waste Management by 21.5% during the 3rd quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 2,605,293 shares of the business services providers stock worth $417,394,000 after buying an additional 461,425 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Prudential Financial Inc. lifted its position in shares of Waste Management by 67.5% during the 3rd quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 966,026 shares of the business services providers stock worth $154,772,000 after buying an additional 389,400 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 78.48% of the companys stock.

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Waste Management Price Performance

NYSE:WM traded up $0.74 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $169.17. The company had a trading volume of 566,624 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,793,784. The company has a market capitalization of $68.82 billion, a PE ratio of 30.85, a P/E/G ratio of 2.76 and a beta of 0.72. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.21. Waste Management, Inc. has a 52-week low of $138.89 and a 52-week high of $175.98. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $159.06 and its 200-day moving average price is $158.28.

Insider Buying and Selling at Waste Management

Waste Management ( NYSE:WM Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The business services provider reported $1.31 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.29 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $4.89 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.86 billion. Waste Management had a return on equity of 33.23% and a net margin of 11.33%. The firms revenue was up 5.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $1.29 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts expect that Waste Management, Inc. will post 6.03 earnings per share for the current year.

In other Waste Management news, SVP Tara J. Hemmer sold 7,515 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $155.00, for a total transaction of $1,164,825.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 46,542 shares in the company, valued at $7,214,010. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other news, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 200 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The shares were 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 $9,969,135. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, SVP Tara J. Hemmer sold 7,515 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.00, for a total transaction of $1,164,825.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 46,542 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,214,010. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 30,743 shares of company stock worth $4,762,320 over the last three months. Company insiders own 0.27% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

WM has been the topic of a number of research reports. TD Cowen initiated coverage on shares of Waste Management in a report on Thursday, March 30th. They issued an outperform rating and a $200.00 price target on the stock. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Waste Management from $180.00 to $186.00 in a report on Sunday, April 30th. Truist Financial started coverage on shares of Waste Management in a research note on Monday, April 17th. They issued a buy rating and a $190.00 price objective for the company. Raymond James reduced their price objective on shares of Waste Management from $167.00 to $166.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Monday, February 6th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus upgraded shares of Waste Management from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $171.00 to $177.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have issued 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 $175.67.

About Waste Management

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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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(CNN)  A driver plowed into a group outside a shelter that had been housing migrants in a Texas border town on Sunday, leaving eight people dead -- including several immigrants -- and close to a dozen injured, authorities say.

Authorities in Brownsville, Texas say they got a call around 8:30 am CT about a Land Rover that hit multiple people who were waiting at a bus stop across the street from the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center, a non-profit homeless shelter that has been helping house migrants. Authorities say it's unclear whether the crash was intentional.

Seven people were found dead at the scene and 10 were taken to hospitals, Martin Sandoval, a Brownsville police spokesperson, told CNN. Later Sunday, an eighth person died due to injuries from the crash, Sandoval told CNN.

Sandoval said several migrants were among the dead and Border Patrol is working to confirm the identities of the victims. The FBI is also assisting with the investigation.

Police are set to provide more information about the crash during a press conference on Monday at 10:30 am CT.

CNN interviewed migrants staying at the center in December. At the time, the center's director told CNN that migrants from all over the world were beginning to stay at the shelter and they were seeing an uptick in stays. The shelter is equipped to house and feed 200 people, according to its website.

Witnesses at the scene detained the driver until officers arrived, Sandoval said during a Sunday news conference. He said the driver of the vehicle received medical care and has been arrested on a reckless driving charge. "More than likely" there will be other charges added, Sandoval said.

The driver, identified as a Hispanic man, is being "uncooperative" with authorities, according to Sandoval. He has given authorities multiple names, and police have had to fingerprint him in hopes of finding his identity  which takes more time, Sandoval said.

Authorities have a blood sample from the driver and a toxicology test will be ordered, Sandoval said. It's unclear how long it will take for authorities to get those results, he said.

Brownsville police are investigating with the help of Border Patrol, he added.

Sandoval said authorities are still investigating whether the crash was intentional or accidental. He said witnesses described seeing the driver ignore a red light, drive up on a curb and run over a group of people waiting at the bus stop.

The shelter has been housing immigrants while they wait for more permanent housing, he said.

Brownsville is located on the southern tip of Texas, just across the Rio Grande River. The city's population is nearly 95% Hispanic or Latino, according to the 2022 census.

Brownsville declared a state of emergency after receiving an influx of thousands of migrants, many from Venezuela, in the past several weeks, CNN previously reported.

The crash happened just days before a Trump-era immigration restriction dubbed Title 42 is set to expire. The pandemic-era policy allowed immigration agents to swiftly return migrants to their home countries. Officials have predicted a rise in immigration in coming weeks when the restrictions are lifted Thursday.

Shelter director says surveillance footage captured horrific crash

Victor Maldonado, the director of the Ozanam Center, told CNN that about 20 to 25 migrants were sitting on the curb waiting for a bus across the street from the shelter. He said surveillance video captured the deadly wreck with footage showing a vehicle driving very quickly, crashing about 30 feet from where the migrants were sitting and then losing control.

Police took Maldonado's copy of the surveillance video, he said.

The migrants were from Venezuela and had arrived at the shelter about two or three days ago, Maldonado said.

Maldonado said after the crash, he and a staff member at the shelter ran outside to find a very graphic scene, with body parts spread across the area.

"I've got a staff [member] who is in shock," Maldonado said, adding that he, too, was in shock.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Death toll increases to 8 after car plows into a crowd in front of a Texas shelter that was housing migrants."
Jag Capital Management LLC boosted its position in General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS  Get Rating) by 14.0% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 5,997 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 736 shares during the quarter. Jag Capital Management LLCs holdings in General Mills were worth $503,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in GIS. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its stake in General Mills by 4.8% in the 1st quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 22,026 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,492,000 after acquiring an additional 1,003 shares during the period. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of General Mills by 45.3% during the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 5,867 shares of the companys stock worth $397,000 after buying an additional 1,828 shares during the last quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. grew its stake in General Mills by 2.1% in the 1st quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. now owns 73,176 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,955,000 after buying an additional 1,503 shares during the last quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. raised its holdings in General Mills by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 279,604 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,935,000 after acquiring an additional 6,176 shares during the period. Finally, Covestor Ltd lifted its position in General Mills by 15.3% during the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,834 shares of the companys stock worth $124,000 after acquiring an additional 244 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 74.48% of the companys stock.

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General Mills Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:GIS opened at $89.90 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 0.54, a quick ratio of 0.32 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.78. The company has a market capitalization of $52.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.40, a PEG ratio of 2.83 and a beta of 0.27. General Mills, Inc. has a 12 month low of $64.94 and a 12 month high of $89.95. The firms 50-day moving average is $84.36 and its 200 day moving average is $82.24.

Insider Activity at General Mills

General Mills ( NYSE:GIS Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 23rd. The company reported $0.97 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.91 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $5.13 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.97 billion. General Mills had a return on equity of 24.51% and a net margin of 14.04%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 13.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.84 EPS. Research analysts predict that General Mills, Inc. will post 4.23 EPS for the current year.

In other General Mills news, insider Jonathon Nudi sold 8,030 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.33, for a total value of $685,199.90. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 83,049 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,086,571.17. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, insider Bethany C. Quam sold 21,734 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, April 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.86, for a total value of $1,866,081.24. Following the sale, the insider now owns 47,560 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,083,501.60. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, insider Jonathon Nudi sold 8,030 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.33, for a total transaction of $685,199.90. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 83,049 shares in the company, valued at $7,086,571.17. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.67% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently issued reports on the company. Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on General Mills in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They issued a buy rating and a $95.00 price target for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on General Mills from $76.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their target price on General Mills from $84.00 to $86.00 in a research report on Friday, March 24th. StockNews.com upgraded General Mills from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and set a $76.00 price objective on shares of General Mills in a research note on Friday, March 24th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, General Mills has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $84.76.

General Mills Company Profile

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General Mills, Inc engages in the manufacture and marketing of branded consumer foods sold through retail stores. The firm operates through the following segments: North America Retail, Europe & Australia, Convenience Stores & Foodservice, Pet, and Asia & Latin America. The North America Retail segment includes grocery stores, mass merchandisers, membership stores, natural food chains, drug, dollar and discount chains and e-commerce grocery providers.

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LSV Asset Management lessened its position in shares of American Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE:AFG  Get Rating) by 11.0% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,478,980 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 183,643 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Management owned about 1.74% of American Financial Group worth $203,034,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Van ECK Associates Corp lifted its holdings in shares of American Financial Group by 1.3% during the 4th quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 8,184 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,123,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System lifted its holdings in shares of American Financial Group by 3.6% during the 4th quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 164,465 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $22,578,000 after purchasing an additional 5,703 shares during the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of American Financial Group by 10.4% during the 4th quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 39,400 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $5,409,000 after purchasing an additional 3,711 shares during the last quarter. Nwam LLC lifted its holdings in shares of American Financial Group by 1.8% during the 4th quarter. Nwam LLC now owns 6,377 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $876,000 after purchasing an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management lifted its holdings in shares of American Financial Group by 10.6% during the 4th quarter. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management now owns 40,925 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $5,618,000 after purchasing an additional 3,933 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 64.04% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other American Financial Group news, insider John B. Berding sold 5,417 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $136.62, for a total transaction of $740,070.54. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 36,083 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,929,659.46. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. 14.60% of the stock is owned by insiders.

American Financial Group Stock Performance

AFG traded up $0.12 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $115.96. 19,438 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 358,125. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $122.23 and its 200 day simple moving average is $132.75. The firm has a market capitalization of $9.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.04 and a beta of 0.82. The company has a current ratio of 0.44, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. American Financial Group, Inc. has a 1-year low of $113.43 and a 1-year high of $150.98.

American Financial Group (NYSE:AFG  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The insurance provider reported $2.89 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.88 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $1.44 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.57 billion. American Financial Group had a return on equity of 23.33% and a net margin of 11.40%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 10.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $3.56 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that American Financial Group, Inc. will post 11.53 earnings per share for the current year.

American Financial Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 25th. Shareholders of record on Friday, April 14th were given a dividend of $0.63 per share. This represents a $2.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.17%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 13th. American Financial Groups dividend payout ratio is currently 26.20%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

AFG has been the subject of several analyst reports. Piper Sandler increased their price objective on American Financial Group from $166.00 to $170.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on American Financial Group in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, BMO Capital Markets initiated coverage on American Financial Group in a research report on Thursday, January 19th. They issued a market perform rating and a $155.00 target price on the stock. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, American Financial Group presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $163.25.

American Financial Group Company Profile

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American Financial Group, Inc is an insurance holding company, which engages in property and casualty insurance, focusing on commercial products for businesses, and in the sale of fixed and fixed-indexed annuities in the retail, financial institutions and education markets. Its Property and Casualty Insurance Products include Property and Transportation, Specialty Casualty, and Specialty Financial.

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Macquarie Bank Limited (ASX:MBLPD  Get Rating) announced a interim dividend on Monday, May 8th, MarketIndexAU reports. Investors of record on Tuesday, June 6th will be given a dividend of 1.406 per share on Tuesday, June 6th. This represents a yield of 1.4%. The ex-dividend date is Sunday, May 21st. This is a boost from Macquarie Banks previous interim dividend of $1.27.

Macquarie Bank Price Performance

Macquarie Bank Company Profile

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Macquarie Bank Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides various commercial banking and retail financial services. It offers personal banking, wealth management, business banking, and vehicle finance products and services to retail clients, advisers, brokers, and business clients. The company also offers corporate and structured finance, transaction accounts, home loans, credit cards, online banking, asset financing, and leasing services.

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Nevro Corp. (NYSE:NVRO  Get Rating) shares hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $26.43 and last traded at $26.43, with a volume of 18906 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $27.08.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have recently commented on NVRO shares. Piper Sandler lowered their target price on shares of Nevro from $37.00 to $34.00 in a report on Thursday, April 27th. Canaccord Genuity Group increased their price target on shares of Nevro from $67.00 to $72.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th. Mizuho initiated coverage on shares of Nevro in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. They set a neutral rating and a $40.00 price target on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price target on shares of Nevro from $43.00 to $37.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, January 11th. Finally, Citigroup lowered shares of Nevro from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $40.00 price target on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, January 17th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Nevro currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $47.50.

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Nevro Stock Down 1.2 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 7.15 and a quick ratio of 5.63. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $32.67 and its 200-day simple moving average is $37.24.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Nevro ( NYSE:NVRO Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The medical equipment provider reported ($0.98) earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($1.06) by $0.08. Nevro had a net margin of 0.55% and a negative return on equity of 34.61%. The firm had revenue of $96.33 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $95.35 million. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned ($0.98) EPS. The companys revenue was up 9.7% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts expect that Nevro Corp. will post -2.45 EPS for the current year.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Nevro in the 4th quarter worth approximately $50,205,000. Millennium Management LLC lifted its stake in Nevro by 226.7% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 920,448 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $36,450,000 after purchasing an additional 638,718 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. lifted its stake in Nevro by 13.7% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 4,718,980 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $341,322,000 after purchasing an additional 568,749 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its stake in Nevro by 19.1% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,797,160 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $129,989,000 after purchasing an additional 287,936 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fred Alger Management LLC lifted its stake in Nevro by 26.9% in the 4th quarter. Fred Alger Management LLC now owns 1,184,000 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $46,886,000 after purchasing an additional 250,805 shares in the last quarter. 96.03% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Nevro Company Profile

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Nevro Corp. engages in the development of medical devices. The firm focuses on providing products that improve the quality of life of patients suffering from debilitating chronic pain. It develops and commercializes the senza spinal cord stimulation system, an evidence-based neuromodulation platform for the treatment of chronic pain.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of O-I Glass (NYSE:OI  Get Rating) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report issued on Friday.

OI has been the topic of several other reports. Citigroup raised their price target on shares of O-I Glass from $22.00 to $25.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on shares of O-I Glass from $34.00 to $37.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 27th. Robert W. Baird raised their target price on shares of O-I Glass from $26.00 to $30.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 27th. Truist Financial raised their target price on shares of O-I Glass from $27.00 to $31.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 27th. Finally, Barclays raised their target price on shares of O-I Glass from $18.00 to $19.00 in a research report on Monday, May 1st. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $24.70.

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O-I Glass Price Performance

O-I Glass stock opened at $21.75 on Friday. O-I Glass has a 12-month low of $11.60 and a 12-month high of $23.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.38 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.93, a P/E/G ratio of 0.49 and a beta of 1.36. The firms 50-day moving average is $22.04 and its two-hundred day moving average is $19.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.34, a current ratio of 1.22 and a quick ratio of 0.77.

Insider Activity at O-I Glass

O-I Glass ( NYSE:OI Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The industrial products company reported $1.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.83 by $0.46. O-I Glass had a net margin of 10.04% and a return on equity of 31.48%. The company had revenue of $1.83 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.78 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.56 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 8.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts predict that O-I Glass will post 3.19 earnings per share for the current year.

In related news, insider Vitaliano Torno sold 17,299 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.22, for a total value of $384,383.78. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 158,010 shares in the company, valued at $3,510,982.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In other news, SVP Arnaud Aujouannet sold 2,510 shares of O-I Glass stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.33, for a total transaction of $56,048.30. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 55,368 shares in the company, valued at $1,236,367.44. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Vitaliano Torno sold 17,299 shares of O-I Glass stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.22, for a total transaction of $384,383.78. Following the sale, the insider now owns 158,010 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,510,982.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.06% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of O-I Glass

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in OI. Citigroup Inc. increased its stake in shares of O-I Glass by 6.8% in the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 135,235 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,783,000 after buying an additional 8,576 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of O-I Glass by 4.5% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 74,856 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $986,000 after buying an additional 3,197 shares during the last quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. increased its stake in shares of O-I Glass by 28.0% in the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 23,746 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $313,000 after buying an additional 5,200 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC increased its stake in shares of O-I Glass by 52.5% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 78,076 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,029,000 after buying an additional 26,893 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers increased its stake in shares of O-I Glass by 2.8% in the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 413,166 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $5,446,000 after buying an additional 11,382 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.60% of the companys stock.

About O-I Glass

(Get Rating)

O-I Glass, Inc engages in manufacturing of glass products. It offers products to the food and beverage sectors. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The company was founded in 1929 and is headquartered in Perrysburg, OH.

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Ovintiv (TSE:OVV  Get Rating) is scheduled to issue its quarterly earnings data after the market closes on Tuesday, May 9th. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of C$2.48 per share for the quarter.

Ovintiv Stock Performance

TSE:OVV opened at C$46.46 on Monday. The firms fifty day moving average price is C$51.34 and its 200 day moving average price is C$62.10. Ovintiv has a 1-year low of C$43.88 and a 1-year high of C$79.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 58.43, a current ratio of 0.61 and a quick ratio of 0.51. The firm has a market cap of C$11.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 2.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.05 and a beta of 3.58.

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Ovintiv Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a $0.406 dividend. This represents a $1.62 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.50%. This is a positive change from Ovintivs previous quarterly dividend of $0.33. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. Ovintivs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 8.44%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Ovintiv Company Profile

Separately, Royal Bank of Canada decreased their target price on shares of Ovintiv from C$57.00 to C$55.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, April 4th.

(Get Rating)

Ovintiv Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, production, and marketing of natural gas, oil, and natural gas liquids. It operates through USA Operations, Canadian Operations, and Market Optimization segments. The company's principal assets include Permian in west Texas and Anadarko in west-central Oklahoma; and Montney in northeast British Columbia and northwest Alberta.

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Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by investment analysts at Piper Sandler from $26.00 to $28.00 in a research note issued on Monday, The Fly reports. Piper Sandlers target price suggests a potential upside of 34.23% from the companys previous close.

A number of other research firms also recently issued reports on KRG. JPMorgan Chase & Co. started coverage on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research report on Monday, April 24th. They issued a neutral rating and a $23.00 price target on the stock. StockNews.com lowered Kite Realty Group Trust from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $25.38.

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Kite Realty Group Trust Stock Up 1.0 %

Shares of Kite Realty Group Trust stock opened at $20.86 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $4.58 billion, a P/E ratio of 688.56, a P/E/G ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 1.37. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $20.47 and a 200 day moving average price of $20.98. The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 0.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80. Kite Realty Group Trust has a fifty-two week low of $16.42 and a fifty-two week high of $23.10.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Kite Realty Group Trust

Kite Realty Group Trust Company Profile

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in KRG. Accurate Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Kite Realty Group Trust during the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Coston McIsaac & Partners bought a new stake in Kite Realty Group Trust in the third quarter worth about $26,000. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. lifted its holdings in Kite Realty Group Trust by 107.8% in the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 1,631 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 846 shares during the last quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co boosted its position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 91.4% during the 3rd quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co now owns 1,675 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 800 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Covestor Ltd grew its stake in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 7,854.2% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,909 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $43,000 after purchasing an additional 1,885 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 96.84% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

Kite Realty Group Trust operates as a real estate investment trust. It engages in the ownership, operation, acquisition, development, and redevelopment of neighborhood and community shopping centers in selected markets in the United States. The company was founded on August 16, 2004 and is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN.

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EQB (OTCMKTS:EQGPF  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by Raymond James to C$89.00 in a research note released on Thursday, The Fly reports.

A number of other equities analysts have also weighed in on EQGPF. TD Securities lifted their price objective on EQB from C$85.00 to C$87.00 in a research note on Thursday. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on EQB from C$87.00 to C$88.00 in a research note on Wednesday, May 3rd. Finally, National Bank Financial lifted their price objective on EQB from C$68.00 to C$75.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 16th.

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EQB Stock Up 11.2 %

Shares of EQGPF opened at $44.47 on Thursday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $43.18 and a two-hundred day moving average of $42.58. EQB has a one year low of $33.21 and a one year high of $50.90.

EQB Company Profile

EQB, Inc operates as a holding company, which engages in the provision of financial services. It offers residential lending, commercial lending, and saving solutions. The company was founded on January 1, 2004 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Ivanhoe Mines (OTCMKTS:IVPAF  Get Rating) had its price target upped by Royal Bank of Canada from C$15.00 to C$17.00 in a report published on Thursday, The Fly reports.

Other analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. TD Securities upped their price objective on shares of Ivanhoe Mines from C$15.00 to C$17.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. Scotiabank upped their price objective on shares of Ivanhoe Mines from C$14.50 to C$16.00 in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. Finally, Raymond James upped their price objective on shares of Ivanhoe Mines from C$15.00 to C$18.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 4th.

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Ivanhoe Mines Stock Performance

IVPAF opened at $9.22 on Thursday. Ivanhoe Mines has a 12 month low of $4.90 and a 12 month high of $9.74. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $8.73 and a 200 day simple moving average of $8.50.

About Ivanhoe Mines

Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. is a mining development company engaged in the exploration and development of mineral properties. Its projects include the Platreef Project, Kamao-Kakula Project, Western Foreland Exploration Project, and Kipushi Project. The company was founded by Robert Martin Friedland on April 29, 1993 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

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Quaker Chemical (NYSE:KWR  Get Rating) had its target price increased by equities research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from $203.00 to $227.00 in a report released on Monday, The Fly reports. Royal Bank of Canadas price objective would indicate a potential upside of 8.06% from the companys previous close.

KWR has been the topic of a number of other research reports. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their target price on Quaker Chemical from $200.00 to $220.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, February 27th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Quaker Chemical in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock.

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Quaker Chemical Stock Up 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE KWR traded up $1.43 during trading on Monday, reaching $210.07. The company had a trading volume of 28,316 shares, compared to its average volume of 87,878. Quaker Chemical has a 12-month low of $129.06 and a 12-month high of $216.45. The stock has a market cap of $3.77 billion, a PE ratio of -593.28 and a beta of 1.43. The businesss 50-day moving average is $190.62 and its 200 day moving average is $185.21. The company has a quick ratio of 2.00, a current ratio of 2.80 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73.

Insider Buying and Selling at Quaker Chemical

Quaker Chemical ( NYSE:KWR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The specialty chemicals company reported $1.89 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.35 by $0.54. The firm had revenue of $500.15 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $485.29 million. Quaker Chemical had a positive return on equity of 8.78% and a negative net margin of 0.32%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.42 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Quaker Chemical will post 6.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

In other Quaker Chemical news, Director Michael F. Barry sold 200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $200.00, for a total transaction of $40,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 90,126 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,025,200. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. 1.30% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Quaker Chemical

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC lifted its stake in shares of Quaker Chemical by 1.4% during the 4th quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC now owns 3,563 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $594,000 after acquiring an additional 49 shares during the last quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Quaker Chemical by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 3,470 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $579,000 after acquiring an additional 54 shares during the last quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Quaker Chemical by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 12,871 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $2,148,000 after acquiring an additional 55 shares during the last quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company lifted its stake in shares of Quaker Chemical by 1.2% during the 4th quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 5,497 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $917,000 after acquiring an additional 64 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can lifted its stake in shares of Quaker Chemical by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 11,712 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $2,073,000 after acquiring an additional 78 shares during the last quarter. 80.91% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Quaker Chemical

(Get Rating)

Quaker Houghton engages in the business of developing, producing, and marketing formulated chemical specialty products. It operates through the following geographical segments: Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific, and Global Specialty Businesses. Its products include can making lubricants, cleaners, coatings, cold rolling oils, corrosion preventives, die casting lubricants, dust suppressants, greases, ground control agents, hot rolling oils, hydraulic fluids, industrial lubricants, longwall fluids, metal forming fluids, metal removal fluids, pickle oils, surface treatments, temper fluids, and tin plating.

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(CNN)  A driver plowed into a group outside a shelter that had been housing migrants in a Texas border town on Sunday, leaving seven people dead  including several immigrants  and close to a dozen injured, authorities say.

Authorities in Brownsville, Texas say they got a call around 8:30 am CT about a Land Rover that hit multiple people who were waiting at a bus stop across the street from the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center, a non-profit homeless shelter that has been helping house migrants. Authorities say it's unclear whether the crash was intentional.

The crash left seven dead and at least ten injured, Martin Sandoval, a Brownsville police spokesperson, told CNN. Sandoval added that several migrants were among the dead and Border Patrol is working to confirm the identities of the victims. The FBI is also assisting with the investigation.

Police are set to provide more information about the crash during a press conference on Monday at 10:30 am CT.

CNN interviewed migrants staying at the center in December. At the time, the center's director told CNN that migrants from all over the world were beginning to stay at the shelter and they were seeing an uptick in stays. The shelter is equipped to house and feed 200 people, according to its website.

Witnesses at the scene detained the driver until officers arrived, Sandoval said during a Sunday news conference. He said the driver of the vehicle received medical care and has been arrested on a reckless driving charge. "More than likely" there will be other charges added, Sandoval said.

The driver, identified as a Hispanic man, is being "uncooperative" with authorities, according to Sandoval. He has given authorities multiple names, and police have had to fingerprint him in hopes of finding his identity -- which takes more time, Sandoval said.

Authorities have a blood sample from the driver and a toxicology test will be ordered, Sandoval said. It's unclear how long it will take for authorities to get those results, he said.

Brownsville police are investigating with the help of Border Patrol, he added.

Sandoval said authorities are still investigating whether the crash was intentional or accidental. He said witnesses described seeing the driver ignore a red light, drive up on a curb and run over a group of people waiting at the bus stop.

The shelter has been housing immigrants while they wait for more permanent housing, he said.

Brownsville is located on the southern tip of Texas, just across the Rio Grande River. The city's population is nearly 95% Hispanic or Latino, according to the 2022 census.

Brownsville declared a state of emergency after receiving an influx of thousands of migrants, many from Venezuela, in the past several weeks, CNN previously reported.

The crash happened just days before a Trump-era immigration restriction dubbed Title 42 is set to expire. The pandemic-era policy allowed immigration agents to swiftly return migrants to their home countries. Officials have predicted a rise in immigration in coming weeks when the restrictions are lifted Thursday.

Shelter director says surveillance footage captured horrific crash

Victor Maldonado, the director of the Ozanam Center, told CNN that about 20 to 25 migrants were sitting on the curb waiting for a bus across the street from the shelter. He said surveillance video captured the deadly wreck with footage showing a vehicle driving very quickly, crashing about 30 feet from where the migrants were sitting and then losing control.

Police took Maldonado's copy of the surveillance video, he said.

The migrants were from Venezuela and had arrived at the shelter about two or three days ago, Maldonado said.

Maldonado said after the crash, he and a staff member at the shelter ran outside to find a very graphic scene, with body parts spread across the area.

"I've got a staff [member] who is in shock," Maldonado said, adding that he, too, was in shock.
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSE:TD  Get Rating) (NYSE:TD) had its price target trimmed by Royal Bank of Canada from C$110.00 to C$95.00 in a research report report published on Thursday morning, The Fly reports. The brokerage currently has an outperform rating on the stock.

TD has been the topic of several other reports. Scotiabank upgraded Toronto-Dominion Bank from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Friday, March 3rd. Barclays reduced their target price on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$102.00 to C$101.00 in a report on Friday, March 3rd. National Bankshares boosted their price objective on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$100.00 to C$102.00 in a research report on Wednesday, February 22nd. CSFB dropped their target price on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$97.00 to C$94.00 in a research report on Friday, March 3rd. Finally, Fundamental Research set a C$104.14 price objective on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$97.88.

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Toronto-Dominion Bank Stock Up 2.0 %

TSE:TD opened at C$83.30 on Thursday. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$82.24 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$86.85. The company has a market cap of C$152.44 billion, a PE ratio of 10.07, a P/E/G ratio of 1.06 and a beta of 0.84. Toronto-Dominion Bank has a 52 week low of C$76.40 and a 52 week high of C$97.13.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Dividend Announcement

Toronto-Dominion Bank ( TSE:TD Get Rating ) (NYSE:TD) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 2nd. The company reported C$2.23 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$2.16 by C$0.07. The business had revenue of C$12.23 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$12.12 billion. Toronto-Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 14.29% and a net margin of 31.78%. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Toronto-Dominion Bank will post 8.9498364 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Sunday, April 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 6th were paid a $0.96 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, April 5th. This represents a $3.84 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.61%. Toronto-Dominion Banks dividend payout ratio is 46.43%.

Insider Activity at Toronto-Dominion Bank

In other news, Senior Officer Riaz Ahmed sold 37,832 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$89.01, for a total transaction of C$3,367,426.32. 0.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

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 Extra Space Storage (NYSE:EXR  Get Rating) from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note released on Thursday morning.

Other equities analysts also recently issued research reports about the stock. Truist Financial raised their target price on shares of Extra Space Storage from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 8th. Raymond James upgraded shares of Extra Space Storage from an outperform rating to a strong-buy rating and set a $185.00 price target on the stock in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. KeyCorp dropped their target price on shares of Extra Space Storage from $190.00 to $172.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Wolfe Research cut shares of Extra Space Storage from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Wednesday, January 18th. They noted that the move was a valuation call. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating, two have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Extra Space Storage has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $170.56.

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Extra Space Storage Stock Up 2.6 %

Shares of NYSE:EXR opened at $154.74 on Thursday. Extra Space Storage has a 52-week low of $139.97 and a 52-week high of $216.52. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $157.31 and a 200 day moving average of $156.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.89 billion, a PE ratio of 24.33 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 0.27.

Extra Space Storage Increases Dividend

Extra Space Storage ( NYSE:EXR Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 22nd. The real estate investment trust reported $1.52 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.08 by ($0.56). Extra Space Storage had a net margin of 43.79% and a return on equity of 21.62%. The business had revenue of $506.70 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $433.39 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.91 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 18.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Extra Space Storage will post 8.52 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were issued a $1.62 dividend. This is an increase from Extra Space Storages previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.19%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 14th. Extra Space Storages payout ratio is currently 101.89%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Extra Space Storage

In other Extra Space Storage news, EVP Gwyn Goodson Mcneal sold 1,500 shares of Extra Space Storage stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.00, for a total value of $246,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 32,290 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,295,560. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, CEO Joseph D. Margolis sold 5,000 shares of Extra Space Storage stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $160.07, for a total transaction of $800,350.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 15,144 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,424,100.08. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, EVP Gwyn Goodson Mcneal sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.00, for a total transaction of $246,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 32,290 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,295,560. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 13,440 shares of company stock worth $2,172,313. Insiders own 1.52% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Extra Space Storage

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in EXR. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Extra Space Storage by 35.9% in the 3rd quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 231 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust raised its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage by 80.0% during the 3rd quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 144 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 64 shares in the last quarter. Private Trust Co. NA raised its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage by 12.9% during the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 612 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $100,000 after acquiring an additional 70 shares in the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage by 5.6% during the 1st quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 1,404 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $289,000 after acquiring an additional 74 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Texas Permanent School Fund raised its stake in shares of Extra Space Storage by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund now owns 19,028 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,801,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. 95.32% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Extra Space Storage

(Get Rating)

Extra Space Storage, Inc is a real estate investment trust. It operates through the following segments: Self-Storage Operations and Tenant Reinsurance. The Self-Storage Operations segment includes rental operations of wholly-owned stores. The Tenant Reinsurance segment includes reinsurance of risks relating to the loss of goods stored by tenants in stores.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Voya Financial (NYSE:VOYA  Get Rating) from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report sent to investors on Thursday morning.

Other equities analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. Piper Sandler raised their price target on shares of Voya Financial from $78.00 to $84.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on shares of Voya Financial from $89.00 to $86.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Voya Financial from $77.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on shares of Voya Financial from $79.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, February 13th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lifted their target price on shares of Voya Financial from $74.00 to $78.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 21st. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $82.50.

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Voya Financial Stock Up 4.2 %

Shares of NYSE VOYA opened at $70.44 on Thursday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $71.94 and its 200-day simple moving average is $68.47. Voya Financial has a 52-week low of $56.20 and a 52-week high of $78.11. The firm has a market cap of $6.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.71, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.72 and a beta of 1.15. The company has a quick ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 0.29 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62.

Voya Financial Announces Dividend

Voya Financial ( NYSE:VOYA Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The asset manager reported $1.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.72 by ($0.03). Voya Financial had a net margin of 9.58% and a return on equity of 14.77%. The company had revenue of $1.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $288.10 million. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.47 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Voya Financial will post 7.96 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, June 28th. Investors of record on Friday, May 26th will be paid a $0.20 dividend. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.14%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 25th. Voya Financials payout ratio is 16.70%.

Insider Activity at Voya Financial

In related news, Director Rodney O. Martin, Jr. sold 70,774 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $73.59, for a total value of $5,208,258.66. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 228,208 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,793,826.72. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, Director Rodney O. Martin, Jr. sold 70,774 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $73.59, for a total transaction of $5,208,258.66. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 228,208 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,793,826.72. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CEO Rodney O. Martin, Jr. sold 109,588 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.23, for a total transaction of $8,134,717.24. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 220,882 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,396,070.86. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 223,650 shares of company stock valued at $16,595,760. 1.44% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Voya Financial

A number of institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its holdings in shares of Voya Financial by 7.5% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 7,488,929 shares of the asset managers stock worth $496,890,000 after purchasing an additional 519,701 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its holdings in Voya Financial by 5.8% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 6,285,547 shares of the asset managers stock worth $380,275,000 after acquiring an additional 345,161 shares during the period. Samlyn Capital LLC boosted its holdings in Voya Financial by 6.2% in the 3rd quarter. Samlyn Capital LLC now owns 4,915,556 shares of the asset managers stock worth $297,391,000 after acquiring an additional 286,571 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its holdings in Voya Financial by 0.9% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,291,225 shares of the asset managers stock worth $199,119,000 after acquiring an additional 29,593 shares during the period. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its holdings in Voya Financial by 3.2% in the 2nd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 2,571,104 shares of the asset managers stock worth $153,058,000 after acquiring an additional 80,147 shares during the period.

About Voya Financial

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Voya Financial, Inc is a retirement, investment, and insurance company, which engages in the provision of financial services. It operates through the following segments: Retirement, Investment Management, and Employee Benefits. The Retirement segment offers tax-deferred, employer-sponsored retirement savings plans and administrative services.

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Mettler-Toledo International (NYSE:MTD  Get Rating) had its price target decreased by equities researchers at Wells Fargo & Company from $1,675.00 to $1,660.00 in a research report issued on Monday, The Fly reports. Wells Fargo & Companys price objective would indicate a potential upside of 16.49% from the companys previous close.

A number of other research analysts have also commented on MTD. Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Mettler-Toledo International from $1,350.00 to $1,525.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, February 13th. Bank of America reduced their price objective on shares of Mettler-Toledo International from $1,650.00 to $1,525.00 in a research report on Sunday. Stifel Nicolaus reduced their target price on shares of Mettler-Toledo International from $1,700.00 to $1,650.00 in a report on Monday. TheStreet raised Mettler-Toledo International from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Thursday, February 2nd. Finally, Robert W. Baird decreased their target price on Mettler-Toledo International from $1,513.00 to $1,454.00 in a report on Monday. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Mettler-Toledo International has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $1,469.50.

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Mettler-Toledo International Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE MTD opened at $1,424.99 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $31.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.19, a P/E/G ratio of 2.34 and a beta of 1.17. The firms 50-day moving average price is $1,496.53 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $1,464.24. Mettler-Toledo International has a 52-week low of $1,065.55 and a 52-week high of $1,615.97. The company has a quick ratio of 0.81, a current ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 76.98.

Insider Buying and Selling at Mettler-Toledo International

Mettler-Toledo International ( NYSE:MTD Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The medical instruments supplier reported $8.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $8.61 by $0.08. The company had revenue of $928.70 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $921.19 million. Mettler-Toledo International had a net margin of 22.45% and a negative return on equity of 5,372.85%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 3.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $7.87 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Mettler-Toledo International will post 44 earnings per share for the current year.

In other Mettler-Toledo International news, insider Gerry Keller sold 474 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,540.69, for a total value of $730,287.06. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 449 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $691,769.81. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Mettler-Toledo International news, insider Gerry Keller sold 474 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,540.69, for a total transaction of $730,287.06. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 449 shares of the companys stock, valued at $691,769.81. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Shawn Vadala sold 1,892 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,550.37, for a total transaction of $2,933,300.04. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 4,900 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,596,813. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 18,022 shares of company stock worth $26,391,416. 2.40% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Mettler-Toledo International

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Robeco Schweiz AG boosted its holdings in Mettler-Toledo International by 9.8% in the first quarter. Robeco Schweiz AG now owns 39,991 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $61,195,000 after acquiring an additional 3,565 shares during the last quarter. Bellwether Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Mettler-Toledo International in the first quarter valued at $4,280,000. Assetmark Inc. grew its holdings in Mettler-Toledo International by 7.9% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 123 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock worth $188,000 after purchasing an additional 9 shares during the period. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund raised its position in shares of Mettler-Toledo International by 22.0% in the first quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund now owns 8,726 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $13,353,000 after purchasing an additional 1,572 shares during the period. Finally, Artemis Investment Management LLP grew its position in shares of Mettler-Toledo International by 18.2% in the first quarter. Artemis Investment Management LLP now owns 16,178 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $24,702,000 after purchasing an additional 2,492 shares during the last quarter. 91.94% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Mettler-Toledo International Company Profile

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Mettler-Toledo International, Inc engages in the provision of precision instruments and services. The firm manufactures weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial, packaging, logistics, and food retailing applications. It also manufactures several related analytical instruments and provides automated chemistry solutions used in drug and chemical compound discovery and development, metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging and provides solutions for use in certain process analytics applications.

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Missing for more than a decade, Rocky Mount resident Heather Hodges was declared dead in a Thursdayhearing on May 4.

The decision marks the end of an ongoing search for Hodges that began when she went missing April 9, 2012. Her family filed a petition earlier this year to make the declaration.

It comes just a few months before the trial of Paul Jordan II, Hodges former partner. Last year a grand jury indicted him on charges of second-degree murder and concealing a body.

Attorney C. Holland Perdue represented the family in Thursdays hearing. He questioned Hodges sister Crystal Songer and the lead investigator in the case, Holly Willoughby, with the Franklin County Sheriffs Office. Neither said they had any contact with Hodges or found any evidence of her still being alive since she went missing.

Perdue also pointed to evidence of her death in the discovery of blood in the Rocky Mount home she shared with Jordan. Willoughby said blood that was later identified as belonging to Hodges was found in the bedroom carpet, walls, furniture and the cargo area of a Jeep. She did not identify to whom the Jeep belonged.

Based on your investigation, do you believe that she is alive? Perdue asked.

No, sir, Willoughby responded.

Willoughby said she found in her investigation that the relationship between Hodges and Jordan was extremely volatile with reports of domestic violence. She said a fingerprint belonging to Jordan was also found in the discovered blood. He was also found with Hodges bank card, Willoughby said.

Perdue asked Judge Joseph Milam to declare Hodges death on April 9, 2012. He said, based on state law, Hodges could be declared dead based on her exposure to specific peril of death which was shown in court.

Milam agreed that the presumption of death was met, but disagreed Perdues claim of exposure to specific peril of death. The Virginia Code states if a person disappears for seven successive years and is not heard of they can be declared dead.

I never heard what the peril was, Milam said. I assume foul play of some sort, but we dont know the specific peril.

With that declaration, Milam said he would certify Hodges date of death as April 9, 2019, seven years after her disappearance.
Following a three-month search, the Franklin County School Board on Friday named Kevin Siers as the school divisions next superintendent.

Siers has served as superintendent of Pulaski County Public Schools since 2016 and led Christiansburg High School as principal before that.

The school board announced the hiring at a special meeting held Friday. Chairman Jeff Worley spoke briefly about the process of finding a new superintendent before introducing Siers. There were 17 applicants for the position, narrowed down to six, and the board interviewed four finalists, he said.

Its been an arduous process but I think one we gladly undertook, Worley said. Our board was very unified about what we wanted to see in our next superintendent and the process we took to get there. Im proud to be here tonight to make our decision

Siers contract as the new superintendent begins July 1, just a day after the contract of current Superintendent Bernice Cobbs ends. Cobbs announced last year she would step down.

Neither Worley nor Siers on Friday would disclose his salary or other terms of his contract. The Roanoke Times has filed a Virginia Freedom of Information Act request to obtain that public information.

The board hired Cobbs, a longtime Franklin County educator, as superintendent in 2020.

According to a news release issued by Pulaski County announcing his resignation, during his tenure he oversaw the bond referendum campaign and construction of Pulaski County Middle School, navigated the school division through the COVID-19 pandemic in a way that allowed Pulaski County students to return to five days a week of in person instruction before any other school division in Southwest Virginia, and oversaw the development and implementation of a division-wide model for effective instruction which created higher standards and increased expectations about instructional delivery in all Pulaski County Public Schools classrooms.

He informed the countys school board late last month he would be resigning and taking the position in Franklin County.

Prior to his time in Pulaski County, Siers served as the principal of Christiansburg High School in 2012 after two years working as the superintendent of Monroe County Schools in West Virginia, where he was credited with drastically cutting the countys dropout rate. Prior to that, he served as principal of Bland High School in Bland County, and was an assistant principal and transportation director at Hickory High School in Hickory, North Carolina.

Siers earned his doctorate in education leadership and policy studies from Virginia Tech and a masters of school administration from Appalachian State, according to his LinkedIn profile. His undergraduate degree is from Concord University in West Virginia.

Siers also is a military veteran, including active duty tours in Yugoslavia and Iraq, according to his biography on the Pulaski County Public Schools website.

At Fridays announcement, Siers praised the beauty of Franklin County as he travels the area in search of a new home for his family. He also expressed his eagerness to get to know the community.

I hope to get to know each and every one of you in the next few months, Siers said.

Cobbs, present for the announcement Friday, stated she looks forward to passing the baton to him as he takes the position. She said they would be working together over the next few weeks.

Ive known Dr. Siers a long time and he will do a good job for this county and this school division, Cobbs said.

Following Fridays meeting, Worley said the school board ultimately decided to hire Siers based on his vast experience, especially in rural schools similar to Franklin County and his willingness to be involved in the community. Those are the things people told us they wanted, he said.
The suspected Pakistan-aligned threat actor known as SideCopy has been observed leveraging themes related to the Indian military research organization as part of an ongoing phishing campaign.

This involves using a ZIP archive lure pertaining to India's Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to deliver a malicious payload capable of harvesting sensitive information, Fortinet FortiGuard Labs said in a new report.

The cyber espionage group, with activity dating back to at least 2019, targets entities that align with Pakistan government interests. It's believed to share overlaps with another Pakistani hacking crew called Transparent Tribe.

SideCopy's use of DRDO-related decoys for malware distribution was previously flagged by Cyble and Chinese cybersecurity firm QiAnXin in March 2023, and again by Team Cymru last month.

Interestingly, the same attack chains have been observed to load and execute Action RAT as well as an open source remote access trojan known as AllaKore RAT.

The latest infection sequence documented by Fortinet is no different, leading to the deployment of an unspecified strain of RAT that's capable of communicating with a remote server and launching additional payloads.

The development is an indication that SideCopy has continued to carry out spear-phishing email attacks that use Indian government and defense forces-related social engineering lures to drop a wide range of malware.

Source: Team Cymru

Further analysis of the Action RAT command-and-control (C2) infrastructure by Team Cymru has identified outbound connections from one of the C2 server IP addresses to another address 66.219.22[.]252, which is geolocated in Pakistan.

The cybersecurity company also said it observed "communications sourced from 17 distinct IPs assigned to Pakistani mobile providers and four Proton VPN nodes," noting inbound connections to the IP address from IP addresses assigned to Indian ISPs.

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In all, as many as 18 distinct victims in India have been detected as connecting to C2 servers associated with Action RAT and 236 unique victims, again located in India, connecting to C2 servers associated with AllaKore RAT.

The latest findings lend credence to SideCopy's Pakistan links, not to mention underscore the fact that the campaign has been successful in targeting Indian users.

"The Action RAT infrastructure, connected to SideCopy, is managed by users accessing the Internet from Pakistan," Team Cymru said. "Victim activity predated the public reporting of this campaign, in some cases by several months."
Now is the time to start planning to have your own Junk Jaunt sale.

The Junk Jaunt Board of Directors is sponsoring several contests to celebrate 20 years of success. All registered vendors will be entered into a drawing for five cash prizes. All business advertisers will be eligible to win a free ad in the 2024 Junk Jaunt Shopper Guide.

The annual jaunt will be held Sept. 22 to 24.

Be a part of the celebration, register your sale today. Turn your trash/junk into someones treasure. Register your sale on at www.junkjaunt.com or download a registration form and mail it to Nebraskas Junk Jaunt,1523 M St., Suite 104 Ord, NE 68862.

For more information visit www.junkjaunt.com.
With the firm belief that fishing is therapy for lifes issues, Reel Men and Reel Ladies of Nebraska will host Coffee and Fishing from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at Sucks Lake. 809 S. Harrison.

While those taking part do need to bring their own coffee, the hosts will provide cookies and other goodies. In addition, the first fish caught will earn the catcher a mug and fishing tackle.

Dont have a pole or tackle box? Join anyway and fishing gear will be provided.

For more information, contact Bruce J. Berck Sr. at 308-850-8464 or reelmennebraska@gmail.com
Editor's note: This story contains graphic descriptions of the shooting's aftermath.

(CNN)  The suspect in Saturday's mass shooting in Allen, Texas, was identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, a senior law enforcement source familiar with the investigation told CNN.

Eight people were killed and at least seven others were wounded from the massacre in the affluent suburb of Allen, about 25 miles north of Dallas.

Steven Spainhouer's son was working at Allen Premium Outlets when he received the phone call no father ever wants to hear.

"He said, 'Dad, we have a shooting ... I'm pulling people into the break room, and we're going to lock the door,'" Spainhouer told CNN on Sunday.

The former Army and police officer raced to the scene, called 911 and "started counting the bodies on the ground ... one, two, three, five, six, seven bodies."

The carnage marked yet another massacre at a public place where Americans had long felt safe -- such as supermarkets, schools and Fourth of July parades.

It happened in the same week a gunman opened fire in a medical facility in Atlanta, killing one woman and wounding four others. Across the US, Americans have suffered 200 mass shootings within the first five months of this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Both the nonprofit and CNN define mass shootings as those in which four or more people are shot, excluding the shooter.

The gunman in Saturday's massacre was killed by an Allen Police Department officer who was at the mall on an unrelated call, police said. Investigators believe the shooter was acting alone.

Investigators probe possible link to right-wing extremism

Authorities are investigating whether the gunman was motivated by right-wing extremism, a senior law enforcement source familiar with the investigation tells CNN.

While authorities have not determined a specific motive, the source said the deceased suspect was found with an insignia on his clothing that read "RWDS," which authorities believe may stand for "Right Wing Death Squad."

Some members of extremist groups have been seen in public in recent years with patches bearing the letters "RWDS," according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, an organization that monitors and reports on extremism.

A photo obtained by CNN shows what appears to be the gunman lying on the ground after being shot, with an AR-15-style firearm nearby. He is clad in black body armor and appears to have several extra magazines strapped in his chest gear.

In addition to the AR-15-style weapon found near him, Garcia had at least one other weapon on him when he was fatally shot in front of the mall, the senior law enforcement source said. Police also found multiple weapons in his car.

Garcia underwent firearms proficiency training for his work as a commissioned security officer, according to the Texas Online Private Security database, which is maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Garcia was approved to work as a security guard in Texas from April 2016 until April 2020, when his license expired, according to the database. His profile shows he worked for at least three security companies. None of those companies immediately responded to requests for comment.

According to the database, Garcia received Level II and Level III security training. The former covers security laws in Texas; the latter, which is required for all commissioned security officers and personal protection officers in Texas, includes firearm training and the demonstration of firearm proficiency, according to Jonah Nathan, vice president of Ranger Guard, a security guard service in Texas not affiliated with Garcia's employers.

In 2018, Garcia also completed a separate firearms proficiency training course that requires six hours of continuing education, according to the Texas DPS database.

Private security guards in Texas undergo background checks and are disqualified if they have committed certain crimes such as assault, burglary or sexual offenses, among others, according to the Texas DPS website and state codes.

They are also disqualified if they have been dishonorably discharged from the US military; have been found incompetent by a court of law; or have been required to register as a sex offender. It's unclear why Garcia's license expired.

CNN spoke with neighbors who witnessed FBI and police at the home of an address that matches Garcia's parents' on Saturday night.

They arrived there about an hour after the shooting and blocked off the street for several hours, neighbors said.

Garcia had been living in some form of transient lodging, according to the law enforcement source. The Dallas Morning News reported the suspect had been staying in an extended stay hotel in Dallas.

'It's unfathomable to see the carnage'

When Spainhouer received his son's frantic call from the break room of an H&M store, he rushed to the mall and saw devastation unlike anything he had seen in the Army.

"I never imagined in 100 years I would be thrust into the position of being the first responder on the site to take care of people," Spainhouer told CNN affiliate KTVT.

"The first girl I walked up to ... I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side, and she had no face."

He said one child survived after his mother shielded him from the bullets. But the mother was struck and killed.

"When I rolled the mother over, he came out," Spainhouer told KTVT. "He was covered from head to toe, like somebody had poured blood on him."

He said he performed CPR on three victims, but none of them could be saved.

"It's unfathomable to see the carnage," Spainhouer said. "It's tough when you see a family that's out shopping, having fun, get wiped off the face of the earth."

Running for their lives

Witness video from Saturday showed panicked shoppers in the parking lot of Allen Premium Outlets screaming and ducking behind rows of cars. Inside the sprawling complex, employees, shoppers and families with young children bolted and hid in storage areas or back hallways, witnesses told CNN.

At least nine people were rushed to trauma facilities, two of whom have since died, Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said. Of the surviving victims, three were in critical condition and undergoing surgery and four were stable as of Saturday night, he said.

A Dallas-area medical group said it treated victims as young as 5 years old.

Witness Kingsley Ezeh said he was walking inside the mall when people behind him suddenly began running.

"I turned around and I saw two ladies rushing towards me, and then one was like 'Someone's shooting! Someone's shooting!'" he said.

Behind the fleeing women, Ezeh said he could see a man holding his neck, which "blood (was) just dripping down."

Ezeh huddled with others in the back of a store for about an hour before police came to get them, he said. Other witnesses reported sheltering in place for up to two hours as police cleared the scene.

Aerial video showed hundreds of shoppers, some with their hands up, weaving through police cars and ambulances as they were escorted from the scene. The footage also appears to show at least three bodies covered by sheets outside the mall.

Republican US Rep. Keith Self, whose congressional district includes Allen, said the attack could have been deadlier if not for the quick response from law enforcement.

"We owe a debt of gratitude to the first responders that ran toward the gunfire and acted swiftly to neutralize the threat," Self said.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott will visit Allen Sunday, he told Fox News.

"There are questions that are lingering that the families want answers to," Abbott said, such as "'Why did this happen? Why did the gunman do this? How did this happen?' And I know that those families need an answer as quickly as possible."

'The shooting happened over and over'

Kimberly Blakey said she and her 14-year-old daughter were among the crowd trying to flee the parking lot during the attack.

"The shooting happened over and over and over again. It was nonstop," she said.

In her haste to get away, Blakey initially drove toward the gunfire before her daughter told her to turn around. But as she drove toward the exit, she said, they became stuck behind a scrum of other cars trying to do the same.

That's when she felt her car get hit twice by gunfire.

"I told my daughter to get down," Blakey said. "She did, and I could hear her start praying."

The pair managed to get out of the parking lot and didn't stop until they got home, even though the car's flat-tire warning light had come on.

"We were on a mission to get out of there," Blakey said.

At the mall's Fatburger restaurant, employee Tiffany Gipson and customers hid in a hallway behind the restaurant.

"I've never witnessed anything like this," Gipson said. "This is very traumatic for me, and I already suffer from anxiety and seizures."
A trip to Grand Island by a group of Seward residents took a violent turn late Friday night when one member of the group started assaulting another.

Tyson Buresh, one of the Seward residents, allegedly assaulted a 45-year-old male member of the group. A 46-year-old woman tried to break up the fight and wound up with a broken leg.

Police responded to a traumatic medical call at 1615 Stonewood Ave., at about 11:40 p.m.

The suspect, the two victims and several other people in the group are from Seward.

"They traveled here together by limousine. Intoxication was a factor. They had a rental property where they intended to stay for the event they were attending," said Grand Island Police Capt. Jim Duering.

At some point, the gathering "obviously got out of control," Duering said.

Witnesses told police that Buresh kicked the 45-year-old man and punched him in the face multiple times.

As the man was getting assaulted, the woman tried to intervene. Buresh allegedly pushed the woman, causing her to fall and fracture her tibia and fibula.

Buresh, 34, had left the scene prior to officers' arrival.

Police tracked him down with the assistance of the Seward County Sheriff's Department, which "was able to pick him up and transport him back here for us to take him into custody," Duering said.

Buresh was arrested for first-degree assault and third-degree assault.
LINCOLN  Rural and urban residents who struggle to find fresh and healthy food close to home could soon get help from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with the help of $25 million from federal taxpayers.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a $25 million cooperative agreement award to UNL to improve local supply chains by connecting regional buyers and sellers of fresh food.

UNL will lead this effort with partner organizations and producers in a five-state region. UNL will focus on building out digital tools and traditional outreach to local farmers growing vegetables, fruits and more, working with nearby distributors, wholesalers and retailers.

One of 12 new regional food centers

The new Heartland Regional Foods Business Center, which will be housed in an existing building on UNLs East Campus, will serve Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri and Oklahoma. Its one of a dozen such centers USDA is funding nationally.

Mary Emery directs Rural Prosperity Nebraska, the UNL group that will lead the five-state center and coordinate with 30 public and private partners, including university extension offices in other states.

She said the COVID-19 pandemic exposed how complicated American supply chains are for all kinds of products, and rural and urban food deserts faced difficulties trying to purchase healthy food. The center aims to reduce food insecurity.

One of the challenges for local consumers in the more rural areas is getting access to local produce, or any produce at all, she said. If I have really great crops, and I want to get them three towns over, thats really hard to do.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said the food centers should help address this, providing a chance for more income for local farmers and grocery stores and more choices for local consumers.

He said the joint program would build greater resilience in our overall food system. The feds have set aside $400 million for the food centers and grants. That grant process is being designed. RFBCMap

The job ahead

The UNL group will start by working with the University of Nebraska at Omaha and other institutions to map and analyze the networks of known producers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers.

Their aim: Identify assets and resources that could get more fresh food more quickly and efficiently to the places where people need it.

One way to think about it is there are many players in this field, and they all have a piece of the puzzle, but we never get together to see how all the puzzle pieces fit, Emery said. This will help with that.

Some of the money will go toward better organizing and boosting growers closer to where their product could be bought and sold, she said. Some will go to improve logistics.

Producers, consumers to benefit

The new center will also work with local producers on connecting them with existing tools to develop business plans that can help them make money producing specialty crops.

One factor in rural food deserts is the loss of local grocery stores, which contributed in recent years to a decline in how some rural Nebraskans view their communities. The 2022 Rural Nebraska Poll by UNL found a record 31% said their rural towns had changed for the worse.

UNL is already working with rural communities on how to start co-op grocery stores in towns where the only local option might be a convenience store. The new center might bolster those efforts and work with other regional universities like Iowa State University on buttressing smaller-scale food processing.

The food center award is one of the largest UNL has ever received, university spokeswoman Leslie Reed said. UNL received a similarly sized federal grant for robotics in 2022.

Of the $25 million for the food center, about $6 million will stay at UNL. About $12 million will go to the grants to build out the system. The rest will go to partner organizations, including the Center for Rural Affairs, Oklahoma State University and the University of Missouri at Columbia.

What we want to do is, instead of creating a number of little patchworks to connect things, we want to look at the whole system and connect the system so we dont need little patches, Emery said.
GOLCONDA  Through the Landmarks Illinois and Banterra Bank grant money, local historical commercial buildings in Southern Illinois will have a chance to preserve their properties by applying for funding by July 1.

"The grant program provides monetary assistance to commercial property owners, nonprofit organizations or governmental bodies working to preserve or rehabilitate historic structures in downtowns and other commercial corridors of Southern Illinois to support economic development," a press release announced, specifying further that projects should be located in the State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development's southern region, which contains the Illinois counties of Alexander, Edwards, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Massac, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, Union, Wabash, Wayne, White and Williamson.

Grants are given out based upon need and range from $500 - $2,500. Past recipients of the preservation grant have been in Elizabethtown, Murphysboro, Sesser, and Golconda.

Anthony and Beth Eckert, owners of the Riverview Mansion Hotel in Golconda, were presented with their check Friday afternoon at their historic property, an 1894 Victorian-style home that was converted into a hotel in the 1920s.

I really appreciate what Landmarks does, and I am very happy about this assistance. Every little bit counts, said Eckert, who owns and operates the mansion-turned-hotel with his wife. He explained that the Banterra check would be used to restore the front window where patchwork restoration had been attempted years before. The window area was in such disrepair that honeybees nested there one season. Eckert says they saved the honey.

Speaking about restoring the window area of the historic mansion to its former glory days, Eckert said, Were going to do it. Were going to make it happen.

The Riverview Mansion Hotel received the full $2,500 grant to help preserve its historic 8,000 square foot home turned hotel, which has operated as such since the 1920s. Once called the "The Queen of Silk Stocking Row," the grant money will go toward returning the historic house to its former glory, providing overnight accommodations and bringing economic activity to the city in Pope County.

The Eckerts maintain the unconventional decor of the boutique-style hotel and its impressive millwork, the Landmarks.org website stated.

"The stately structure features a dozen stained glass windows, including a Palladian-style window on the front elevation that is in need of repair. The Eckerts will use their grant to help pay for exterior maintenance to the window," the Landmarks.org website says.

We partnered with Landmarks Illinois because there is so many coal mining, historical downtowns of Southern Illinois, and some have been neglected, and there is not a lot of grant opportunities at all that are geared for developers or small business owners that are trying to renovate historic buildings, said Jennifer Spence, Marketing Director for Banterra and Landmarks Illinois Board Member.

Spence said that part of the charm of spending an afternoon at the local shops, buying a cup of coffee or purchasing some flowers at a boutique, is the history of the building itself.

You dont have to be a nonprofit. You dont have to be a municipality. You are a business developer trying to revitalize these Southern Illinois downtowns.

For Banterra, were in six states now, in places like Scottsdale and Salt Lake City, but were in 25 towns of Southern Illinois. Thats where were based, Spence said.

Begun as a single bank in Ridgway, Illinois, in 1975, Banterra Bank now has assets in excess of $3 billion, and is currently ranked in the top 10% of U.S. Charter Banks, and is in the top five of the Illinois Charter Banks for its large asset size. Operating all over the U.S., Banterra has left its mark national and locally through providing banking services to communities and grant programs partnering with organizations like Landmark Illinois.

We look at historical structures, historical resources, in general, and if communities want to save them, we help them, said Quinn Adamowski, Region Advocacy Manager for Landmarks Illinois.

Oftentimes, communities have leadership that has decided that a building has to be torn down. Well, why? Maybe theres another use for it. We work around the state and have those kinds of conversations all the time, Adamowski said.

The Landmarks Illinois is a people and places-oriented organization. As a membership-based historic preservation nonprofit, Landmarks Illinois serves the people of Illinois by saving the places which hold a place in the hearts of Illinoisans. By providing free guidance, practical advice, and financial resources, as well as access to strategic partnerships like Banterra Bank, Landmarks Illinois works to preserve the past well into the future.

The Preserve Southern Illinois Grant, in concert with Banterra, resulted from a desire for our organization to make a larger impact in Southern Illinois, Adamowski said.

I think Golconda is a very cool place and what they have here with this mansion is a very interesting stop, so theres a lot of value in what they are doing here. We thought that providing the [Eckerts] the grant assisting them with their window project was the right thing to do, Adamowski said.
Rep. Mike Bost doesn't even try to pretend he serves all the constituents in the district. On his social media sites, he'll post things such as, "I'm here to protect Illinois Conservative values" OR "it's great to meet with like minded Republicans." When he recently opened his new office in Effingham, he told the Daily News there, he likes being around farmers who share his views on guns and abortion. Hey Bost, if you want to work as a fundraiser for the RNC committee, knock yourself out. But you have no place as a public office holder for all the people the Southern Illinois.
Speaking at the CPAC conference in Budapest, Viktor Orban warned of a biological weapon targeting the most vulnerable part of the Western world, the nation. From Telex.

The two-day long CPAC Hungary conference began last Thursday morning in Budapest, with a much weaker list of speakers than last year, and without influential American politicians present. This is the second time that the Center for Fundamental Rights, which has close ties to the government and which operates from public funds, has organized the Hungarian mini-version of the Conservative Political Action Conference, an annual event attended by conservative activists and elected officials from across the United States and beyond, including many top Republicans.

The conferences main speaker, just like last year, was Viktor Orban. The Hungarian prime minister greeted the participants by calling them the defenders of the free world, and said that he hopes that CPAC Budapest will become a traditional event.

But why is CPAC coming to Hungary? Orban posed the question, adding that in his opinion, Hungary is neither powerful nor fearsome, nor rich. The prime minister believes that there is a single reason why the world is interested in Hungary:

And that is the fact that in a way, Hungary functions as an incubator where the conservative politics of the future is being experimented with. We dont just talk about the conservative political turn and about defeating the liberals, but we have actually done it.

After 2010, we have proven that it is possible to put a country that has been ruined by the liberals rampage back on its feet with conservative politics. However, no one cared about the Hungarian success story until 2015.

Sometimes I wish for those days when we were not in the limelight, Orban said jokingly.

The prime minister believes that if [Hungarian-born billionaire financier and philanthropist] George Soros hadnt attacked Hungary, then the country would have never become frontpage news in the Western media. Using his NGOs, Soros had unleashed millions of migrants upon Europe, but the Hungarian government managed to stop him.

After this, Orban spoke about Hungarians not being the kind of people who attack. We dont want to tell other countries what they should think about gender issues or migration. And this includes the United States. We are just defending ourselves because the global elite is trying to force its opinion on us. According to Orban our struggle for freedom became important for the world because its become clear that all the free countries of the world are under attack.

And this is not an economic but a biological attack, the prime minister said. Orban believes that we are up against a biological weapon, a virus, which targets the most vulnerable part of the Western world, the nation. This virus devours nations, he said. He believes that if the nations were to disappear, the West would go under.

Migration, gender issues, and the woke ideology are variants of this progressive virus, according to Orban. Wokeism and gender ideology are exactly like Marxism and communism used to be. They divide the nation into classes while proclaiming that the classes stand above the nation.

Other than woke culture and gender ideology, Orban also identified progressive foreign policy as a variant of the same virus, and he criticized exporting democracy, as he believes that it only leaves chaos, turmoil, and countries left to their own devices behind. The prime minister then asked Donald Trump to return to the White House and to bring peace.

Summarizing his thoughts, the Hungarian prime minister said: This virus then makes living nations into dead communities. But he did have one piece of good news for his audience:

Theres no need to look any further for the antidote of the progressive virus. It is here, in Hungary. Anyone can take it freely. It only needs a bit of localized finetuning, and it doesnt have any side effects either.

May the fourth be with you!  Orban said in closing, referring to that days date [4 May].

CPACs Main Organizer Boasted That Hungarians Have Taught Him How to Ban Journalists From Events

Miklos Szanto, leader of the Center for Fundamental Rights, CPACs head organizer Matt Schlapp, and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili were the ones who gave the opening speeches before Orban. Szanto started by saying that he is proud to be transphobic and explained that those who want a liberal democracy are in fact Marxists and want to see a communist dictatorship introduced in the world.

However, he believes that the Hungarian conservatives noticed this before anyone else did, since they know what its like to live under communist oppression. He also said that the war against wokeism and the progressives is more important than the one currently going on in Ukraine, as well still be fighting the former long after peace will have come to Ukraine.

Matt Schlapp, who was recently accused of sexual assault by a former Republican campaign aide, thanked Orban for attending last summers CPAC conference in Dallas. He jokingly said that although he doubts the Hungarian prime minister has such aspirations, if it were up to him, Orban would for sure be elected as governor of Texas.

Schlapp also boasted that at last years conference, the Center for Fundamental Rights taught him how to crush press freedom. Journalists have never before been banned from CPAC conferences, but last year, the Hungarian organizers, who have some serious experience in banning journalists from certain events, opened his eyes. Now he sees that if he is worried about certain journalists writing negative articles about the conference, he can simply ban them.

Irakli Garibashvili praised Orban in his speech and spoke about the importance of Christian values and the sanctity of the family unit.

No influential foreign politicians came, but the speakers include an antisemitic MP and a propagator of conspiracy theories.

Just like last year, the organizers didnt manage to bring influential American politicians to the event, and the somewhat better-known political actors who did accept the invitation did not come to Budapest in person. Tucker Carlson, whose turbulent departure from Fox News happened just recently, and the founder of the far-right Breitbart site, Steve Bannon, who has been sentenced to four months in prison related to the attack on the U.S. Capitol, both sent short video messages.

It is quite possible that just like they did last year, they will again show a short video message from Donald Trump on Friday morning. For now, the program only mysteriously says: video message from the United States. [Ed. note: Trump did send a message, speaking of a historic battle against communists and globalists.]

Among the few who were willing to fly from the United States to Budapest were the antisemitic Orban fan congressman Paul Gosar and the well-known conspiracy theorist, Jack Posobiec. Other than them, it will mostly be European far-right politicians (Herbert Kickl, Jordan Bardella), Orbans fallen Central European allies (Andrej Babis, Janez Jansa) and members of the Hungarian government (Judit Varga, Janos Lazar, Gergely Gulyas) sharing their thoughts about wokeism, Christianity, the importance of family, and the freedom of speech in the next two days.



Balint Domotor is a journalist at Telex.hu, where this article was originally published. Translated by Andrea Horvath. Telex is now Hungarys largest community-funded news source, supported almost exclusively by readers. Donations can be made via Telexs site. Republished by permission.
CHEYENNE  A company headquartered in Cheyenne that specializes in intelligence, training, logistics and cybersecurity for the Department of Defense was recently awarded a military contract to assemble bunkers for the war between Russia and Ukraine.

The Bizzell Corporation, founded by military veterans in 2012, has been contracted to supply the Ukrainian military with 100 Field Accommodation Dugouts.

These portable bunkers, constructed like cargo containers, are designed to be buried underground near the Ukrainian border to provide a small living shelter for soldiers on the front lines.

Its a significant contract for Bizzell to receive, especially considering its a service that wouldnt normally fall within the companys realm of responsibility.

Senior leadership has done this work from being former military and having a staff of a lot of former military, but the company, as a whole, has not (done something like this), said Jessica Underwood, chief development officer.

We do logistics, she continued. Thats one of the things that we do function in, especially in Eastern Europe. We have a really solid partnership doing both ground and air logistics.

Underwood said the company is poised to use relationships in Eastern Europe to fulfill the contract.

The dugouts are constructed and retrofitted in Ukraine and come fully stocked with a wood-burning stove, ventilation system, solar energy, bunk beds and storage space.

Bizzell is responsible for facilitating the acquisition of materials and development of these boxes on the front end of the operation.

The orders are completed in installments of 20 units at a time. The first order is scheduled to be delivered by May 31. Underwood said that theres currently no concern that Bizzell will have difficulty producing units on schedule, which demands subsequent shipments of 20 units every month through September.

If the government is satisfied with the first 100 units, theres an option to procure another 100-unit batch. Depending on how the rest of the process goes, Bizzell could end up striking more federal contracts down the line.

I think it opens us up for additional opportunities that not a lot of people can say theyve done, Underwood said. This kind of work, this isnt something thats regularly outsourced. I think theres a uniqueness here that positions us well for future work of similar scope.

Its good work. Its one of those things you can feel good about at the end of the day.
U.S. history scores continue to decline while civics scores fell for the first time in more than two decades among U.S. eighth graders, national standardized tests show.

Every four years the National Assessment Governing Board and National Center for Education Statistics use standardized testing to assess the U.S. history and civics learning of eighth graders nationally. Average U.S. history scores dropped by five points in 2022 and civics scores slouched by two points, according to National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data released last week.

The results did not include a state-level breakdown.

Last years results mark the first time that civics scores decreased since standardized testing on the subject began in 1998. U.S. history scores have steadily declined since a 2014 peak, resetting to the same level as the first U.S. history test in 1994.

Only 22% of eighth graders are proficient in civics, which measures students understanding of the U.S. political system, government, democracy and other subjects. That figure was even lower for U.S. history. Just 13% of eighth graders tested proficient or above.

The wake-up calls keep coming. Education leaders and policymakers must create opportunities for students to gain the knowledge and skills they need to catch up and thrive, Beverly Perdue, the chair of the National Assessment Governing Board, said in a May 3 statement. The students who took these tests are in high school today and will soon enter college and the workforce without the knowledge and skills they need to fully participate in civic life and our democracy.

Roughly 15,800 students from 410 public, private, Bureau of Indian Education and Department of Defense schools took the exams between January and March 2022.

Though the results showed declines in average scores, the drops were not even. In U.S. history, scores fell more for low-performing students, while gaps between high- and low-performing students widened across both subjects.

In a survey, those gaps translated to less than a third of lower-performing students who said they could judge if information is accurate and could evaluate different points of view about history. Less than a third of lower-performing students said they believed they could make a difference in their community.

The civics and U.S. history scores reflect similar declines to those seen in math and reading. Historically, eighth grade students are less proficient at civics and U.S. history than other subjects, according to a National Assessment Governing Board press release.

In October, the National Assessment Governing Board and National Center for Education Statistics released spring 2022 test results that showed the most significant drops in math scores for fourth and eighth graders since the national standardized assessments began in 1990. Reading scores also fell for both grades, returning to levels on par with those in the early 2000s.

Wyoming saw its eighth grade math and reading scores sink, which Chad Auer, the former deputy state superintendent of public instruction, attributed to the pandemic. However, the state still remained among the national leaders in education.

Wyoming outperformed the national average in eighth grade math and was in the top 20 in reading, a trend that has held steady in recent testing cycles.
(CNN)  More than 100 wildfires raging across the Alberta region of Canada have forced more than 29,000 people to flee in what officials have called an "unprecedented situation" for the province.

In the past 24 hours alone, 16 new fires have ignited in Alberta, Wildfire Information Unit Lead Christie Tucker said during a Sunday evening news conference.

Firefighters across the province were battling 108 active wildfires, 31 of which were burning "out of control," according to Tucker.

This type of ferocious wildfire activity isn't typical this early in the year, and firefighters don't usually see such a large area burned, Tucker said Sunday morning.

But bone-dry conditions, abnormally hot weather and high winds have converged to fuel this "really extreme wildfire activity," Tucker said.

"We could be sort of settling in for a long fight here," she said.

Wildfires have burned a total of 375,000 hectares, about 926,000 acres, in Alberta so far this year, and recent blazes have burned a "huge amount of ground" over the last few days, Tucker said.

Additional firefighters and resources are heading to Alberta from across the country to battle the growing fires, and crews have already arrived from Quebec and Ontario to join the firefight, Tucker said.

Some gains were made Sunday as scattered showers across the province helped firefighters access areas they couldn't before due to extreme wildfire behavior.

Firefighters now hope that cooler temperatures and higher humidity will help them battle the flames in the south and central part of the province -- but challenging conditions remain in the northern part of the province, Tucker said.

"Up north, it's still very dry. We're still seeing winds and we are expecting a continuation of those kinds of conditions that can lead to extreme wildfire behavior," she said in the Sunday evening news conference.

Communities in Alberta have seen some extremely hot temperatures in the past week, with the capital city of Edmonton hitting 31 degrees Celsius, about 88 degrees Fahrenheit, on Wednesday and Thursday -- more than 10 degrees above average, according to the Canada Centre for Climate Services.

The region has also seen a lack of precipitation which may have contributed to the extreme fire conditions in Alberta, drying out land and making fires more difficult to contain, CNN Meteorologist Robert Shackelford said.

Tucker said crews faced with "rapidly changing wildfires across the province" will continue to focus their efforts on fires that are threatening communities.

Meanwhile, multiple hospitals have been fully evacuated and many roads are closed in north and central Alberta, according to province officials.

So far, about 5,000 people have sought refuge at evacuation centers, Alberta Emergency Management chief Colin Blair said in the Sunday news conference.

The extent of the damage has yet to be seen

As thousands of Albertans flee their homes and head to evacuation centers, they leave not knowing whether they'll have a home to return to when the evacuation orders are lifted.

Rick Laboucan, who grew up in the community of Fox Lake, told CNN affiliate CTV that his family home won't be there when the community returns.

"My whole family's side over there, our little village side there on the north Fox Lake is all wiped out," Laboucan said. "Family and friends' homes are gone."

An out-of-control wildfire has burned more than 16,300 hectares of land, about 40,200 acres, as of Sunday in the community of Fox Lake, authorities said.

It remains unclear just how much damage the fires have left as the thick smoke and heavy fire conditions keep crews from fully assessing property loss, Blair said.

"We know structures have been lost, but our first priority is protecting lives and dealing with the emergency response first and foremost," Blair said.

Officials do know that dozens of structures have been damaged, including in the Fox Lake area, where 56 firefighters with heavy equipment and aircraft are battling the flames, authorities said.

Many have also been ordered to flee in Yellowhead County, where immediate evacuations were ordered for 8,000 people. Another 3,600 were ordered to evacuate from Little Red River Cree Nation.

Another out-of-control wildfire dubbed EWF-031 has burned about 77,920 hectares of land, about 192,500 acres, as it rages southeast of the town of Edson in Yellowhead County, according to Alberta fire officials.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said it's an "unprecedented situation our province is facing."

"We have so many fires, so spread out and it's because we've seen unprecedented conditions this spring. ... It's been an unusual year," Tucker said.

This story was first published on CNN.com. More than 29,000 people are evacuated from communities throughout Alberta as wildfires rage in Canada
The Wyoming Republican Party was united in condemning Laramie Democrat Rep. Karlee Provenza for posting a meme concerning transgender people that was criticized for its violent overtones.

But Republican leaders were split on Saturday over whether or not the party should urge disciplinary action against Provenza for posting the meme, with some passionately arguing that doing so could create a precedent for the infringement on free speech  a right that is strongly emphasized in the party.

The meme, which the House Minority Whip shared last month on Instagram and Facebook in recognition of the Transgender Day of Visibility, depicts an older woman pointing a scoped rifle with the caption Auntie Fa Says protect trans folks against fascists and bigots! The woman is wearing the colors of the transgender flag.

Provenzas post was criticized for its seeming reference to Antifa  the left-wing anti-fascist political movement  as well as its violent overtones and timing (Provenza made the post less than a week after a school shooting in Nashville, Tennessee). Wyoming GOP Chairman Frank Eathorne, who was reelected on Saturday, sent a letter on behalf of the Wyoming Republican Party to speaker of the House Albert Sommers last month urging him to strip Provenza of her committee assignments over the meme.

While defending the Second Amendment rights of LGBTQ people, Provenza apologized multiple times for her post.

We have a nation that is constantly hurting, and my failure to recognize how my words could be used to hurt people is something that I am truly sorry for, she wrote in a letter to her House colleagues last month.

On Saturday, the Wyoming Republican Party State Central Committee passed a resolution in a voice vote encouraging voters to oust Provenza over the meme controversy.

The original resolution, which was brought by the Lincoln County GOP, urged Wyoming House leadership to take further disciplinary action up to and including [Provenzas] expulsion from the Wyoming House of Representatives.

But the GOP State Central Committee nixed this portion of the resolution after a debate among the Republican leaders over where to draw the line for free speech.

Jeff Pomeroy and Mark Armstrong, the state committeemen for the Washakie and Albany County GOPs, respectively, argued that Provenzas post crossed the line because they considered it to be a call to violence.

Where do we draw a line and say theres a responsibility for what you said? Pomeroy questioned. You may have the freedom to say it, but theres gonna be repercussions because of the responsibility of being a civilized society.

But others argued vehemently against the original resolutions language because of free speech considerations.

First of all, let me say that what this representative said is absolutely deplorable. I highly condemned it. I think it was irresponsible, Campbell County GOP Chairman and former lawmaker Scott Clem said.

He noted, however, that freedom of speech is a fundamental right under the U.S. and Wyoming constitutions and mentioned that Sen. Troy McKeown, a state lawmaker from his county, also posted a meme in 2021 that some said suggested violence. McKeown wasnt disciplined for doing so.

I had no issue with it, Clem said of McKeowns post. Now, I know there were many others that did have an issue with it. No disciplinary action was taken, nor do I think it should have been.

While he highly recommended that voters not reelect Provenza, whom he described as not fit for the Legislature, Clem said he doesnt believe its right for the GOP State Central Committee to urge disciplinary action against her for the views she expressed on social media.

Goshen County GOP State Committeeman Hugh Hageman also spoke strongly against the resolution as it was originally written.

I rise against this resolution because I am a liberty guy. Im gonna remain a liberty guy. Its gonna be liberty for all, its gonna be liberty for everyone, Hageman said, arguing that if someone gets hurt as a result of speech, the affected person can take the matter to court.

I dont want to hear where to draw the line. Im not going to draw the line. Free speech is free speech.

Sommers also cited free speech considerations in his letter announcing that he had dismissed complaints that had been filed against Provenza over the meme, writing that its imperative to remember that political expression is protected speech under the U.S. Constitution.

With this constitutional right also comes personal responsibility. We must remember that even constitutionally protected actions have the potential to deeply hurt others. Free speech is at times a messy thing, Sommers wrote.

Citing the First Amendment, some Republicans agreed with Sommers decision. Shortly after Sommers announced that he would not discipline Provenza for posting the meme, Wyoming Freedom Caucus member Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper, said on social media that though she vehemently disagreed with Provenzas messaging, she thought Sommers had taken the right action.

Do we want to set a precedent of kicking Representatives out of the Legislature for social media posts? #1stAmendment, Ward wrote.

Goshen County GOP Chairman Kirk Haas brought the amendment to the resolution on Saturday that deleted the portion asking House leadership to take disciplinary action against Provenza and instead urges voters to oust her in the next election.

I think weve had excellent statements here about freedom of speech. This allows the state party to address it as a central committee, Haas said of the amendment. I think its important that we do address it.
The Wyoming Republican Party is asking local school districts to adopt policies that align with Senate File 117  a bill proposed during the session this year thats similar to Floridas so-called Dont Say Gay law, and which would have barred classroom instruction about gender identity and sexual orientation in certain grades.

Two county parties  Park and Sheridan counties  passed resolutions in April and March, respectively, urging their local districts to adopt policies that align with Senate File 117. The state GOP central committee subsequently adopted a state resolution in a voice vote on Saturday. The resolution doesnt have clout and only expresses the desired direction of the party.

Senate File 117, which didnt survive the Legislature, would have barred classroom instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, or in a manner that is not age appropriate or developmentally appropriate... It would have also required school personnel to report changes in students well-being or use of services to parents and guardians under most circumstances, and to encourage students to discuss issues related to their well-being with their parents and guardians.

Proponents of the bill argued that it was meant to protect students and empower parents to be involved with their childs well being, while opponents said it would threaten the rights in particular of LGBTQ students and families and that the legislation wouldnt address any existing problem in Wyoming schools.

Senate File 117 cleared the Senate in an 18-12 vote in January. But Speaker of the House Albert Sommers, a Pinedale Republican, chose to withhold the bill from debate in the lower chamber, and it ultimately died without a vote on the floor after failing to reach a cutoff date.

Given that there are more bills than there is time to consider and vote on each and every one of them, the speaker of the House has to decide which bills to withhold and which will be allowed to move forward. Consequently, its common for bills to meet their end in the speakers drawer (the Senate president has the same power.)

Those decisions can be contentious.

During the session, Sommers came under fire from national figures for holding Senate File 117 in his drawer. State Freedom Caucus Network President Andrew Roth posted a photo of Sommers on Twitter and highlighted three bills  one of them Senate File 117  that had stalled in the House. The State Freedom Caucus Network  a Washington, D.C.-based organization that aims to establish state freedom caucuses across the country  officially partnered with the hard-line conservative Wyoming Freedom Caucus in early January.

Wyomings Rep. Harriet Hageman retweeted Roths post and said that the bills were about protecting our children.

In Congress, Im fighting for these very issues. I hope the Wyoming legislature will do the same, she wrote.

Sheridan County GOP Chairman Bryan Miller said that people were angry because Sommers didnt pull the bill out of his drawer.

The bottom line is this: If we decide not to do anything here, thats not going to be the end of this, Miller said.

That is the point, the primary point, of bringing this out. This is something that needs to be done at the local level if the Legislature is not going to do anything.

The resolution comes amid a lawsuit filed by two parents against Sweetwater County School District No. 1 that alleges the district violated their rights by concealing information about their childs gender identity.

The parents  Ashley and Sean Willey  argue that Sweetwater County School District No. 1 was engaging in social transitioning by using the childs preferred pronouns. They also assert that the school districts use of the childs gender identity violated their religious beliefs, which dont recognize transgender people.

The Willeys aim to stop Sweetwater County School District No. 1 from using their childs preferred pronouns. They also seek monetary damages for emotional distress and psychological harm to the child and the family.
OPPOSITION Chief Whip Dr David Lee has called on the Government to state clearly whether citizens have been overcharged at retail fuel pumps for the past seven months.

Lee, the Pointe-a-Pierre MP, was contributing to Wednesdays mid-year budget debate in the Parliament, where he noted that for the last seven months, oil has averaged US$79 dollars per barrel but local fuel prices were based on an oil price of US$90, out of the 2023 budget.
Always give thanks and praise.

Those were the dying instructions from Blackman family matriarch Mama Claudette Blackman to her musically gifted children on February 20, 2017.

Mama Claudette, 72, lost her lengthy battle with cancer that day, but left her family with a sacred duty to perform.
Mothers Day, which is being celebrated around the world today, remains one of the best opportunities to honour the matriarch of the family.

Some people have bought flowers, gift baskets, electronics and other items to celebrate mothers today. Others will be preparing their mothers favourite dish to honour her.
Hong Kong: Ingrid Yeung visits Highways Dept

Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung today visited the Highways Department to gain an understanding of the daily operations of the offices that manage major highway projects and handle traffic emergencies.

Mrs Yeung was briefed by Director of Highways Jimmy Chan and directorate staff on the department's latest developments. She also met staff representatives of various grades to exchange views on matters of concern.

During the meeting with staff, she spoke on the proposals on improving governance at the district level announced earlier, saying that the Highways Department is one of the departments in frequent contact with the District Councils.

Mrs Yeung noted that for the implementation of projects or planning at the district level in the past, government departments encountered fragmented opinions and demands raised by district councillors concerning particular small constituency areas.

If district affairs can be taken care of from a more macro perspective in future, it can pave the way for better planning of projects or services and enhance the effectiveness in district governance to the peoples benefit, she added.

The civil service chief was briefed by the departments Major Works Project Management Office on the use of Building Information Modelling in the Central Kowloon Route project, including the display of project designs and working environment at construction sites by 3D imagery that assists in planning throughout the construction process and enhances management.

The office also introduced Mrs Yeung to the Smart Site Management Hub developed under the Central Kowloon Route project which enables project teams to keep track of site conditions to facilitate project management.

She said: "Highly accessible road and railway networks not only facilitate economic development but also improve community environments and people's quality of life. I hope that colleagues would continue to uphold the citizen-oriented service ethos.

Mrs Yeung also called on the New Territories Emergency Control Centre to learn how it co-ordinates with the Transport Department's Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre to monitor the conditions of major public roads during inclement weather and act promptly to clear obstructions on roads to maintain smooth traffic flows and protect the safety of road users.

This story has been published on: 2023-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
UN experts call on U.S. to promote accountability for past, future violations of human rights

Xinhua) 13:15, May 08, 2023

GENEVA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- United Nations (UN) experts on Friday called on the United States to boost efforts to promote accountability for past and future violations of human rights.

After a 12-day visit to the United States, members of the International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the Context of Law Enforcement, a delegation appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, said they "felt an urgency, and a moral responsibility, to echo the harrowing pain of victims" and their resounding calls for accountability and support, according to a UN statement.

Slavery has left a deep and long-lasting entrenched legacy on the country, which can be perceived through generational trauma, the independent experts noted, the statement said.

Racial discrimination permeates all contacts with law enforcement, from the first contact -- often during early school years -- by means of racial profiling, arrest, detention, sentencing and disenfranchisement in some U.S. states, UN experts said.

"In each of those aspects, available data points to a clear disproportional impact upon people of African descent," and it should be an "imperative priority" to address and unpack the issue of poverty, moving from a criminal justice response to a human rights-centered response to poverty, homelessness, substance abuse, and mental illness, they added.

The Mechanism has shared its preliminary findings with the White House and will draft a full report to be published in the coming months and presented to the Human Rights Council at its next full session.

The Mechanism, established in 2021, was aimed at ending systemic racism and human rights violations by law enforcement against Africans and people of African descent.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(CNN)  The second-deadliest US mass shooting of the year unfolded at a shopping mall in an affluent Texas suburb, leaving eight victims dead and investigators probing whether the killer may have been driven by right-wing extremism.

Authorities have not announced a motive for why the gunman, 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, unleashed a hailstorm of bullets Saturday at Allen Premium Outlets  about 25 miles north of Dallas.

Garcia served in the military for a brief period but was removed due to concerns about his mental health, a law enforcement source familiar with the investigation tells CNN.

The source could not specify the branch Garcia served in or what time period. CNN has reached out to the Pentagon for comment.

Garcia, who was killed at the scene by an Allen police officer who was on a nearby call, was wearing an insignia that authorities believe may be associated with extremist groups, a senior law enforcement source familiar with the investigation told CNN.

Investigators have unearthed an extensive social media presence, including neo-Nazi and White supremacist-related posts and images that authorities believe Garcia shared online, according to the source.

The US has suffered at least 202 mass shootings within the first five months of this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The nonprofit and CNN define mass shootings as those in which four or more people are shot, excluding the shooter.

The massacre in Allen is the second-deadliest so far this year, behind the January mass shooting in Monterey Park, California, that left 11 people dead.

Among the eight killed in Allen was Aishwarya Thatikonda, who was visiting the mall with a friend, CNN affiliate WFAA reported.

Thatikonda was an engineer who lived in nearby McKinney, but her family is mourning her loss from their home in India, a family representative told WFAA. The family plans to have her body sent to India, the representative said. CNN has reached out to the consulate general of India in Houston for more information.

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old mall security guard, was also killed in the massacre. LaCour was a sweet, caring young man who was loved greatly by our family, his sister Brianna Smith said.

LaCour was the kind of person who would just walk into the store and everyone in the room would light up because he was there, said Max Weiss, a mall store employee.

The indiscriminate slaughter marks yet another mass tragedy at a public place where many Americans had felt safe  such as schools, supermarkets, parks and Fourth of July parades.

It also came just three days after a shooter killed one woman and wounded four others in an Atlanta medical facility and only a few weeks before Texas will mark a year since 19 children and two teachers were massacred by a gunman at Robb Elementary school in Uvalde.

Gunman had received firearms training as guard

Garcia had worked for at least three security companies and had undergone hours of firearms proficiency training in recent years, according to a database maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

None of the companies immediately responded to requests for comment.

The gunman was approved to work as a security guard in Texas from April 2016 until April 2020, when his license expired, according to his profile in the Texas Online Private Security database.

As part of his work, Garcia received Level II and Level III security training. The former covers security laws in Texas; the latter, which is required for all commissioned security officers and personal protection officers in Texas, includes firearm training and the demonstration of firearm proficiency, according to Jonah Nathan, vice president of Ranger Guard, a security guard service in Texas not affiliated with Garcias employers.

Garcia completed a separate firearms proficiency training course in 2018 which requires six hours of continuing education, according to the database.

Private security guards in Texas undergo background checks and are disqualified if they have committed certain crimes such as assault, burglary or sexual offenses, among others, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and state codes.

They are also disqualified if they have been dishonorably discharged from the US military; have been found incompetent by a court of law; or have been required to register as a sex offender. Its unclear why Garcias license expired.

In addition to an AR-15 style firearm and another weapon found with Garcia, police discovered several more weapons in his car, the law enforcement source told CNN.

Neighbors of an address matching that of Garcias parents told CNN that police and the FBI arrived at the home about an hour after the attack and had the street blocked off for several hours.

Two neighbors said they were shocked and disturbed to learn Garcia was the shooter.

I know nothing happened on our block but it sends a chill down your spine knowing the suspect lives a few houses away, neighbor Moises Carreon said.

Garcia had been living in some form of transient lodging, according to the law enforcement source. The Dallas Morning News reported the suspect had been staying in an extended stay hotel in Dallas.

The most terrifying moment of my life

Witness accounts, videos and photos obtained by CNN paint a vivid picture of the fear and devastation the gunman caused before he was killed by an officer who police say was already on the scene when the shooting happened.

Garcia began firing in the parking lot near the malls H&M store after he got out of his car, according to video obtained by CNN. Another witness video shows shoppers  some with small children  screaming, running and ducking behind rows of cars as the shots ring out.

Steven Spainhouer rushed to the scene after receiving a call from his son, who works at the H&M and had taken shelter in a break room. When he arrived in the parking lot outside the store, he started counting the bodies on the ground  one, two, three, five, six, seven bodies.

The first girl I walked up to  I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side, and she had no face, Spainhouer told CNN on Sunday.

I saw moms and dads covering the eyes of their kids in tears, kids holding their hands up, people running for their lives, he said.

He found a surviving child whose mother had been struck and killed as she shielded him from bullets, Spainhouer told CNN affiliate KTVT.

When I rolled the mother over, he came out, Spainhouer told the affiliate. He was covered from head to toe, like somebody had poured blood on him.

As the gunman entered and made his way through the mall, shoppers yelled warnings to each other and fled as many store employees rushed to shelter customers in storage rooms or back hallways, according to several witness accounts.

ALLEN, TEXAS - MAY 6: Emergency vehicles line the entrance to the Allen Premium Outlets where a shooting took place on May 6, 2023 in Allen, Texas. According to reports, a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall, injuring at least nine people who were taken to local hospitals. The police have confirmed there were fatalities but have not specified how many. The unidentified shooter was neutralized by an Allen Police officer responding to an unrelated call. (Photo by Stewart F. House/Getty Images)

A weekend of tragedy in Texas spotlights two distinctly American political fissures

Weiss, the 18-year-old store employee, described hiding with coworkers and customers in a pair of rooms at the back of the store as the most terrifying moment of my life.

I immediately reached out to both of my parents, told them I was OK, Weiss said. But I had other things to take care of. I had to make sure that the store was OK, and that the team was OK and that the customers in there were OK.

A witness in a cosmetic store at the northeast corner of the building said he watched as the shooter passed by firing his gun. Moments later, a pursuing police officer passed, rounding the corner and firing ahead of him down range, he said.

A photo obtained by CNN shows the gunman  clad in black and tactical gear  lying on the ground after being shot outside a Fatburger restaurant location.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "The gunman who killed 8 people at a Texas mall was removed from the military due to mental health concerns, source says"
The Government is doing itself and the public a complete disservice by rushing to introduce far-reaching legislative changes without the benefit of thorough research, analysis and consultation.

An immediate example is the Trial by Judge Alone Bill, 2023, which attempts to disband jury trials for all capital and non-capital indictable matters except in cases where the accused asks to be tried by judge and jury. If passed into law, these persons who request jury trial will have a smaller panel of nine jurors instead of the current 12 .
Tucson hospitals and county health officials werent immediately notified about a nitric acid spill on Interstate 10 in February, among communication missteps in a mostly strong and effective emergency response, says a new report.

The after-action report by the Pima County Emergency Management Office, released to the public on Friday, assessed strengths and weaknesses in agencies response to the hazardous material spill.

On Feb. 14, truck driver Ricky Immel, 54, was driving near Kolb Road on I-10 when he slowly veered off the road and onto the median, where the uneven ground caused the truck to roll onto its left side. Containers carrying about 18,200 kilograms of nitric acid ruptured in the crash, causing the Arizona Department of Public Safety to shut down both directions of the interstate and tell residents and other people in the area to shelter in place.

Immel died in the crash. He had a blood alcohol level nearly eight times above the states legal limit, the county medical examiner found.

With the help of the Tucson Fire Department and DPS, the county Emergency Management Office conducted a survey and held two debriefing sessions to discuss what went well and what could have gone better. The first session was for first responders, and the second session included community stakeholders and support agencies, the report said.

No incident response is ever perfect. Lessons are learned and reinforced, the Emergency Management Office said in the report.

At a recent Pima County Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Steve Christy asked that the report be made public and available to the board.

The report states that several agencies from various disciplines worked well together throughout the incident. Many survey participants also listed teamwork and cooperation as strengths.

The immediate response and swift actions by various agencies were also highlighted. A commuting Border Patrol agent was first at the scene and was able to take the initial steps in closing I-10 before a full closure of the interstate was ordered 15 minutes later, the report said.

Also, within 15 minutes of the initial 911 call, the substance that spilled was identified as nitric acid, and the National Weather Service was able to provide plume modeling for the first responders at the scene.

The WebEOC, a crisis information management system accessible via the Internet where responders across the state can share incident updates, was found to be a valuable source for sharing information. Using the system, updates were provided throughout the incident.

Websites made by various agencies were also praised for keeping the public informed. DPS created a website dedicated to providing updates on the crash and shelter-in-place notifications, while the Pima County Health Department worked with the Arizona Poison Control Center to create a website in response to the publics concerns about exposure to the acid.

When it comes to opportunities for improvement, communication was brought up several times.

While the three transportation departments, the Arizona Department of Transportation, Pima County Department of Transportation and Tucson Department of Transportation, assembled traffic plans to deal with the I-10 closure, the departments did not share information with each other. This created community stress as there was no unified detour designated, the report said.

The incident command post was not clearly identified or known to all response partners, causing multiple responders to have trouble finding the DPS incident commander on-scene, the report said. One survey response said eight Marana Police Department officers were sent to the scene and could not locate the incident command post.

Radio communication between responders was another issue found. While local public safety and public service organizations can easily communicate with each other using the Pima County Wireless Integration Network, other partners who do not use it have limited access, hindering radio operability with DPS, the report said.

Communication was hampered as interaction between the lead public information officer and other PIOs was very limited, the report said. This led several survey takers to recommend activating a joint information system to help create unified messaging during emergencies such as the nitric acid spill.

That would help alleviate discrepancies in messaging and help provide clear information to media and public outlets, the report said.

Lastly, many responding agencies were not well informed about the incident, the report said. Initial notification about the incident was not made by DPS to the Pima County Emergency Management Office.

A recommendation has since been made that DPS notify that office of incidents affecting the community, the report said.

Other support agencies, including the Pima County Health Department, local hospitals and the Pima County Department of Transportation, were also not immediately notified of the incident, leaving many with limited information or a lack of messaging, the report said. The health department was not notified until the next day.

Exposure to nitric acid can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and mucous membrane; it can also cause delayed pulmonary edema, pneumonitis, bronchitis, and dental erosion, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control says.

Agencies and departments appropriately review and revise their internal policies and procedures, leading to more comprehensive preparedness for the next emergency, the Emergency Management Office said in the report. It is already being witnessed that lessons learned are being shared among partners, collaboration and coordination enhances community preparedness. Relationships and networking are being reinforced.
DREXEL HILL, Pa. (AP)  In the hours before he's due at Upper Darby High School, senior Khalid Doulat has time to say prayers, help his mother or prepare for track practice.

It's a welcome shift from last year for him and thousands of students at the school, which pushed its start time back by more than two hours  from a 7:30 a.m. start time to 9:45 a.m. One goal for the change: to ease strains on students that were more visible than ever coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ill be honest, Ive been much happier in the mornings, Doulat said. Ive been more positive, and Ive come to school smiling more rather than, you know, grudging out of bed and stuff like that at 7:30.

The idea of later school start times, pushed by many over the years as a way to help adolescents get more sleep, is getting a new look as a way to address the mental health crisis affecting teens across the U.S.

For some schools, the pandemic allowed experimentation to try new schedules. Upper Darby, for one, initially considered later start times in 2019. Ultimately, it found a way to do it this year by using distance learning as a component of the school day.

As students first came back to in-person learning, many dealt with mental health struggles and behavioral issues, Upper Darby Superintendent Daniel McGarry said. Officials saw a breakdown in students respecting the authority of teachers in the classroom.

We had a lot of those things that we were facing and were still working our way through it; were in a much better place, McGarry said. I think our kids feel better. Theyre not 100% better." But, he said, much of the social anxiety students felt after being in online school has dissipated.

During the pandemic, soaring numbers of high school students expressed persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, with girls and LGBTQ+ youth reporting the highest levels of poor mental health and suicide attempts. It doesn't help that research suggests middle and high school students aren't getting enough sleep.

These mental health challenges are already going to happen and then, with the absence of sleep, are much worse, said Orfeu Buxton, director of the Sleep, Health & Society Collaboratory at Penn State University. The same with decision making, suicidal ideation, those kinds of things.

The reasons why high schools start as early as they do  many begin their day before 7:30 a.m.  are lost to the sands of history," Buxton said. But now, he said, everything is baked into that: traffic light patterns, bus schedules and adults work.

Nationally, at least nine states are considering legislation related to school start times, up from four the previous year, according to the National Conference on State Legislatures. California in 2019 became the first and only state to dictate school start times.

Large school systems including Denver, Philadelphia and Anchorage, Alaska, have been looking into later start times.

It can require innovation to forge a new schedule.

At Upper Darby High, the school day technically still begins at 7:30 a.m., with students assigned coursework to be done remotely that ties into their lessons for the day. But they can use the early morning hours as they see fit  they can meet with teachers during office hours, sleep in or finish other homework. Ultimately, the work assigned for the early morning needs to be done, but when is up to students.

I think getting more sleep is definitely helping, Elise Olmstead, a junior. I would be more irritable throughout the day, especially later, because I have a lot of after-school things. I would just have a harder time getting through the day.

The school day still ends by 3 p.m.

Fatima Afrani, a freshman, said that when she gets home, shell usually relax, then help her mom or do homework.

If Im tired I go to sleep, which was not something I was able to do last year. Last year I just had to get my homework done because there wasnt an option of being able to do it later, she said. And so I liked that if I was tired, I could listen to my body and just let myself sleep.

Principal Matthew Alloway said educators have noticed fewer students sleeping in class. The new schedule also has allowed "kids to go to school for exactly what they need, he said. About 400 of the schools 4,250 students attend only through virtual learning  an option it offered to compete with online schools.

Critics have argued students have less instruction time in the new schedule. The original 80-minute periods have been shortened, but Alloway said that its not as if lectures always took up the full 80 minutes.

It was sometimes a 60-minute concentrated instructional time. But then there was time to write. There was time to read. There was time to view a video, he said.

Other challenges wrought by the pandemic  teacher shortages, for one  have also benefitted from the schedule change, administrators said. Teachers can take care of themselves and their families in the morning. Administrators have more time to replace staffers who call out sick.

Doulat, the Upper Darby senior, said that even if students cant see the effects every day, theres been a big positive impact.

Its such little changes in our daily lives that we dont notice it, he added. But they slowly start building up, and we actually see the difference within our own lives.

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Brooke Schultz 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.

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The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
PHOENIX  Gov. Katie Hobbs five-point plan to deal with what happens Friday, when the Border Patrol loses its authority to immediately deport people who enter the United States to seek asylum, includes lots of ideas but is short on specifics.

And much of what she says she may do already takes place.

The Democratic governor said Monday she will keep using state resources to ship migrants who have been released from Border Patrol custody to other parts of the state and country.

She also promised executive actions, though with no details.

The situation is fluid, Hobbs said. Were going to continue to monitor.

One option, she said, is sending National Guard troops to the border.

Arizona already does that, with the 180 soldiers there handling routine, non-law-enforcement duties to help free up Border Patrol agents. Hobbs said there could be more but that she couldnt say how many and what they would do.

Asked how much money will be spent on emergency shelters for migrants, Hobbs said, We dont know the numbers because we dont know the number.

We dont know what the need is actually going to be, she said at a press briefing she held Monday with other officials. Were dealing a lot with speculation.

Surge seen in Yuma

When authority to deport migrants under the Title 42 public-health policy used during the pandemic ends at midnight Thursday, U.S. border agents will lose the authority to simply send asylum-seekers back to Mexico.

Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls said a surge is already beginning.

About a month ago, we had 300 people a day crossing the border in the Yuma sector, he said.

Two weeks later, the daily figure hit 600. Sunday, it reached 1,000.

And this morning, at 8 oclock, there was already 500 people that have crossed into the Yuma sector, Nicholls, a Republican, said at the press briefing. This is not stopping anytime soon.

Shelter funding needed

Hobbs said she is counting on a very large pot of (federal) money to deal with the fact there are going to be hundreds, if not thousands, of migrants released into this country, all of whom will need shelter. But what is missing  and what Hobbs said she needs  is a guarantee those funds will be focused on border communities.

Right now, were in competition with all of the states for that funding, she said.

Still, Hobbs said there are contingency plans to deal with the immediate problem.

She said the new state budget she and Republican legislative leaders are finalizing will include increased funding to deal with homelessness. But shes not happy with the idea of some of that money being funneled off to deal with the end of Title 42.

I will tell you, the intent isnt necessarily to be used on the shelter, Hobbs said. We shouldnt have Arizonans paying for something thats a federal responsibility.

Local law enforcement role

The governors preparedness list also includes having the state Department of Public Safety assist local sheriffs and law enforcement with public safety and drug interdiction.

DPS Director Jeffrey Glover insisted he will not divert officers from highway safety. Instead, he said, sworn officers with responsibilities other than road safety can be called in to help.

The transportation aspect of Hobbs plan is a continuation of a program started by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey, her immediate predecessor.

Ducey was sending busloads of migrants to D.C. with no arrangements for them when they got there, and whether or not Washington was where they wanted to go.

Hobbs, on taking office in January, started adding flights with an eye on putting the migrants closer to families and organizations that can provide support.

But the bottom line, she said, is the state just cant handle the problem on its own.

Lashed out at Washington

If there was a common theme to Mondays briefing it was that everyone there was blaming Washington, D.C.

Without much more robust action from the federal government, the current situation will only get worse, Hobbs said. Im afraid the federal government is unprepared to meet the demands of the expected influx.

Hobbs also released copies of letters she sent over a week ago to President Joe Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, asking what they intend to do.

As of today, we have not received an adequate response, she said.

This is a federal government problem, agreed Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, a Democrat.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

To get your head straight about what, if anything, we owe descendants of slaves, take a trip to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to rule on affirmative action in June. Given the conservative bent of the court, the outcome is widely expected to be the end of race-based, race-conscious admissions policies in colleges and universities.

The main argument against AA is that it is race-based. We make it easier for Blacks to get into this college because we know from statistics that Blacks are economically disadvantaged in the competition to get into college. And because we think diversity will provide a richer education for all students.

But race-based admissions is widely seen as reverse racism, depriving non-white students of places that merit would otherwise win them. Bending over backwards to be fair to some means unfairly depriving others.

Whats a conscientious/good liberal to think?

When it comes to atoning for our original sin of slavery (one of the two) thinking about reparations  a much-more-affirmative action than trading skin color for SAT points  is clarifying about both reparations and affirmative action.

The logic of reparations had always escaped me and most of the liberal types I know. Of course slavery was a great wrong, a great blotch on our record as a nation. But reparations? Payments made by people who are themselves blameless of slavery, to people generations removed from slavery? Didnt make sense to me.

But a visit to the Civil Rights Museum in Memphis a couple of years back profoundly transformed my perspective.

On our cross country road trip, Memphis was not our destination. We had booked an Airbnb there because it was conveniently located about halfway between Oklahoma City and Asheville. I didnt have slavery on my mind. I had actually forgotten that Memphis was the site of MLKs assassination in 1968.

When my wife, discovering that the Civil Rights Museum was a local attraction, suggested we go, I felt some resistance. After all, I had lived through the civil rights movement, hadnt I? At least vicariously?

I was of the chorus and didnt need preaching to-even by MLK.

I even imagined the Civil Rights Museum might be a little boring (as in: been there, done that).

I was wrong. The fact is I have never been so moved in any museum anywhere. As we wandered from room to room carved out of the motel where King spent his last night, I was blindsided by how much feeling I had been carrying around about slavery and its aftermath, about what our society and government had done to people, feelings buried in my psyche which apparently I would have been just as happy not to have disinterred.

The emotions  is there such a thing as vicarious PTSD?  would have been learning enough. But also there was intellectual learning. Turned out I didnt know everything there was to know about the subject.

What I hadnt understood is what a huge role slavery played in the creation of the wealth of what we now view as the most affluent society in the world.

Cotton grown and picked by enslaved workers was the nations most valuable export. On the eve of the Civil War, the combined value of the bodies of enslaved people (over $3 billion) exceeded that of all the railroads and factories in the nation combined.

There is no understanding New World affluence without that jumpstart provided by unpaid labor. We all still, every moment of our lives, go on benefitting from that terrible, unpaid labor. (Some more than others, of course.)

So the new learning for this old dog: the logic of reparations. Not to assuage white liberal guilt, not as symbolic gesture, and not even for the psychic damage to those who live always with the knowledge of how their ancestors were treated by our society (try to imagine that vicarious PTSD) but because in a strict business sense, we owe them. Call it back wages, with interest. To be collected by the next of kin.

I wouldnt know where to start to figure out the details of reparations, but the logic, economic and human, is clear.

The Supreme Court may well abolish race-conscious admissions. What schools need to do is switch to another term: slavery-conscious admissions.

Affirmative action should only be abolished by a policy of reparations, which would be much more effective in erasing the terrible inequality that continues to exist now, despite 60 years or so of AA. Youve no doubt read the startling statistic that the median white family According to Inequality.org, has $117,000 to the median Black familys $1,700.
The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer:

In Arizona, Alzheimers disease, the most common type of dementia, is a growing public health crisis as we have the fastest growth rate of Alzheimers in the country. The expense to the state was $414M in 2020, and that staggering figure is expected to increase almost 32% by 2025.

Dementia is common, but it is not commonly known that the diagnosis is frequently missed by doctors, patients and families. Patients most often dont complain, and families often assume if its important, the doctor will notice. Many assume early symptoms are part of normal aging or worry silently so as not to embarrass a loved one. As a result, many dementias can be well along before a formal diagnosis is made.

A dementia diagnosis is devastating, regardless of the timing. But an early diagnosis gives the patient and family caregivers time to make decisions and prepare for the next steps. They can plan how to share caregiving responsibilities. They can prepare for any known safety issues and make needed modifications that can allow their loved one to be cared for at home for as long as possible. They can learn about current and potential medications or therapies to ensure they understand if, how, or when they should be used. They can anticipate behavioral issues, so treatment wont be delayed. They can research local assisted and memory care facilities so if the time comes their loved one cant be cared for at home, they have a plan in place they can afford and feel comfortable with.

Caregivers can also seek out support groups to ensure they feel supported and stay healthy during their caregiving journey. This is especially important as caregivers for those with dementia report higher rates of chronic conditions, including stroke, heart disease, diabetes and cancer compared to caregivers of people without dementia or non-caregivers.

Would your family recognize the early signs of dementia in a loved one? How would your family handle a dementia diagnosis? Do you know what happens after that initial diagnosis? And what the coming months and years might look like? With so many questions, families facing a dementia diagnosis need access to coordinated support services wherever they live.

In 2011, the State of Arizona established the Arizona Alzheimers Task Force, which produced the Arizona Alzheimers State Plan: A Framework for Action in 2016, with the support of private funding and contributions from a diverse group of stakeholders. Despite this commendable start, the plan has not been reviewed, updated, or fully implemented statewide due to the lack of funding and a designated state agency, such as the Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS), to lead the efforts. As a result, efforts to address Alzheimers disease have been fragmented and uncoordinated across the state, even though some regions, like Pima County, have demonstrated successful models for community-based coordination. The Pima County model could be replicated statewide with DHS leadership, and they could convene stakeholders and experts to coordinate a comprehensive response to Alzheimers disease.

Time is not on our side, and its urgent our Governor and legislators provide designated funding for DHS dementia-specific programs to improve the coordination of dementia services among state agencies, identify gaps in services, and increase early detection and diagnosis.

Funding these programs at DHS will help the state plan for how to address workforce shortages, caregiver stress, health systems, legal systems, and social support, especially in underserved areas. Arizonas families need these programs. They need help, support, and resources to manage a scary and challenging dementia diagnosis.

Visit ALZ.org to read the Alzheimers Association Facts and Figures report and learn how to prepare your family if dementia strikes your family. And share your stories with your local legislator  we need funding now.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP)  Virginia Moore, who became a pandemic-era fixture in Kentucky as the sign language interpreter for Gov. Andy Beshear's widely watched briefings on the COVID-19 outbreak, has died.

Moore, 61, died Saturday from complications after a brief illness, said Amy Hatzel, board chair of the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, where Moore had a long career.

In announcing his friend's death in an extended social media post, the governor said that Moore taught us all the importance of leading with love and inclusion. He called her a rock of stability and grace during the pandemic and said she helped bring us all together in our most challenging times.

Moore announced in 2020 that she was suffering from uterine cancer and said she would undergo a hysterectomy as treatment. She returned to the job about a month later, the Courier Journal reported.

Moore, a longtime advocate for the deaf and hard-of-hearing, was executive director of the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

In a statement announcing the death of its beloved director, the commission said: Our hearts are broken, and we will forever feel her absence. Moore had been with the commission since 1995 and was appointed its executive director in 2009, according to the commission's website.

Kentucky has more than 700,000 deaf and hard-of-hearing residents, the commission said.

Moore gained celebrity status across the Bluegrass State as Beshear's sidekick at his daily COVID briefings during the early stages of the pandemic. She even got her own bobblehead.

Standing near the governor at his many briefings, she kept deaf and hard-of-hearing Kentuckians updated on developments in the fight against the pandemic.

When COVID hit, I thought to myself, Hows everybody going to get the information? How are the constituents that I serve going to get the information?' she said in an interview.

She contacted the governor's office and was invited to join Beshear at the briefings.

So when the door was opened, I put my foot right in and I wasn't going to let it close," Moore recalled.

The pandemic is blamed for more than 18,000 deaths in Kentucky.

Moore's death brought an outpouring of tributes on social media.

Kentucky Auditor Mike Harmon said he was saddened to learn of his friend's death.

She was passionate about her work and its impact on those she helped, he said.

Harmon is among a dozen Republicans running for governor in Kentucky's May 16 primary. Beshear, a Democrat, is seeking reelection to a second term this year.

The commission where she worked said memorial services for Moore are pending.

The governor concluded his tribute with the familiar words of encouragement he used to end his many COVID briefings with Moore at his side.

I will miss her greatly, but as Virginia would remind us in our grief: We will get through this; we will get through this together, Beshear said.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  A decisive win by Democrats in hotly-contested local races in Lincoln could be indicative of the partys chances next year, including in a presidential election where Nebraskas Omaha-centered 2nd Congressional District has twice given an electoral vote to Democratic presidential candidates.

Nebraska and Maine are the only two states that allow their electoral votes to be split in presidential elections. That system has confounded Nebraska Republicans, who have been unable to force the state into a winner-take-all system since Barack Obama became the first presidential contender to shave off one of Nebraska's five electoral votes in 2008. It happened again in 2020, when President Joe Biden captured Nebraska's 2nd District electoral vote.

Democratic Party leaders see an opportunity to capitalize on Republicans' hard shift to the right, particularly on religious and culture war issues issues  including the recent push across red states to target the transgender and LGBTQ+ community members, ban books from schools and libraries and vastly restrict abortion access. Those efforts are unpopular with the majority of voters, Nebraska Democratic Party Chairwoman Jane Kleeb said Wednesday.

Womens reproductive freedom will continue to be a key issue that voters want a clear answer from candidates on where they stand, and Republicans are simply out of step with the majority of Nebraskans," Kleeb said.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, a Democrat, handily won a second term Tuesday, despite an aggressive push by Republicans to oust her in favor of former Lincoln state Sen. Suzanne Geist, who saw more than $1.5 million pumped into her campaign by GOP donors. That included hundreds of thousands of dollars each by the family of former Gov. Pete Ricketts and the Peed family that owns publishing company Sandhills Global, based in Lincoln.

Geist had stepped down from her legislative seat last month to focus on the mayor's race. Campaign ads supporting her painted Lincoln as an unsafe, crime-ridden city under Baird and blanketed airways for weeks before Tuesday's election.

Lincoln, Nebraska's capital and home of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is one of the few communities in the conservative state where Democrats can claim regular election victories. But Tuesday's win stood out for the number wins Democrats scored, including 3 of 4 contested City Council seats, giving Democrats a dominant 6-1 advantage. And Republicans lost all three of the contested local school board seats.

The only other area of the state where Democrats have seen some success in the last three decades is in Omaha, the state's largest city with more than 850,000 in the city and surrounding suburbs.

Weve learned many lessons over the last few cycles of what works and what we need to improve on, Kleeb said. As the Democratic Party, we are going to continue to build in the blue dots of Lincoln and Omaha while making sure we invest in rural towns that deeply care about public schools, access to abortion and protecting our democracy.

The Nebraska Republican Party didn't address its Lincoln losses on its Twitter or Facebook pages, and state party chairman Eric Underwood did not immediately return a message Wednesday seeking comment.

But the party has made no secret of its frustration over losing Omaha's electoral vote to Democrats in recent presidential elections. Republicans tried for nine years after first splitting the state's electoral votes to revert to a winner-take-all system, but those proposals failed year after year. The effort was resurrected after Biden won the Omaha vote in 2020, but it has gained little traction. A bill introduced this year has been stuck in committee.

Republicans have instead relied on redistricting to curtail Democrats' progress in the 2nd District, having twice redrawn the district's boundaries since 2008 to favor Republican candidates.

But even some Republcians have said that might not be enough to overcome a turnout of voters soured on the hot-button issues targeted by GOP-led legislatures this year.

Nebraska Sen. Merv Riepe publicly warned his fellow Republican colleagues last week that efforts to ban abortion will cost them at the polls next year.

Riepe, an 80-year-old former hospital administrator, had initially signed on as a cosponsor to a Nebraska bill that would effectively ban abortions as six weeks of pregnancy, with exceptions for rape, incest and to save the life of the mother. But he later refused to give the measure the final vote it needed to survive a filibuster over concerns the ban was too strict.

Riepe pointed to his own election last year against a Democrat who made abortion rights central to her campaign, noting that his margin of victory dropped from 27 percentage points in the May primary election, which occurred before the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, to under 5 percentage points in the general election after the fall of Roe.

This made the message clear to me how critical abortion will be in 2024, he said. We must embrace the future of reproductive rights.
Tulsas City Council Rules and Order of Business state in part that councilors pledge to be reasonable, responsible, positive, receptive and courteous in all their dealings, to devote their time, skills and energies to their elected office, and abide by all reasonable standards regarding conflict of interest and ethics 

In other words: Cant we all get along?

For the most part, they do. But after a recent hullabaloo over alleged violations of the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, councilors voted on Wednesday to amend their rules to include a process by which disputes should be mediated.

Under the new language, when a dispute arises among councilors regarding the application of rules regulating their conduct, the councilor or councilors asserting the dispute will notify the City Council chairperson or vice chairperson.

... Who should make a good faith effort to mediate the dispute prior to the filing of any official request, demand, claim, or action, unless the time for filing such request, demand, claim, or action would lapse or be waived by such notice and mediation, the amendment states.

If the chairperson or vice chairperson are subjects of the dispute, the person alleging the dispute will notify one or two of the next most senior councilors  other than the chairperson or vice chairperson  of the disagreement.

Council Chairwoman Crista Patrick, who was not available for comment Friday, proposed the mediation process at an April 19 committee meeting. Given that the City Council does not have a human resources department, she told her colleagues, she thought it was prudent to establish a process to resolve conflicts so that we dont get into a public situation.

If the chair and the vice chair are notified immediately, they have the right to call a meeting, have everyone sit down in a room together and talk it out so that there isnt a lot of hurt feelings or  not to mitigate, or not to cancel out any legal requests, that is not the point  but just so that we have an open dialogue about where everybody is at initially, before it kind of gets out of hand, Patrick said.

The proposal came nearly a month to the day that Councilor Grant Miller filed an open records request seeking text messages sent among three of his colleagues  Lori Decter Wright, Laura Bellis and Vanessa Hall-Harper  during a council committee meeting at which Gilcrease Museum funding was discussed.

According to the text messages released in response to the request, Wright texted Bellis and Hall-Harper, 10M Gilcrease $ for housing. Miller is ridiculous.

Bellis responded, RIDICULOUS; Hall-Harper did not respond.

A week later, the Rev. Freeman Culver filed a lawsuit alleging the city of Tulsa and the city councilors who were the subject of Millers open records request had violated the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act.

Miller, who works for the law firm representing Culver, told councilors at the April 19 meeting that he would like to have the mediation sessions done in public, regardless of the nature of the dispute.

I know that it is not always practical to have the public know every single word that is said by an elected official, but I think that if you are going to create a policy where there is some kind of a mediation, then that mediation should be in public view, Miller said.

Wednesdays council vote on the rules amendment was unanimous. Miller said he saw it as a compromise

It is what it is, he said. My stance will remain the same always  I think that maximum government transparency is good.

Miller said his main focus is on a proposed amendment to City Council rules that has yet to be brought to a vote.

It would prohibit private communications among councilors to discuss, deliberate, decide, or take action on any item of public business identified on a publicly posted meeting agenda while Councilors are participating in that posted Council meeting, or Council committee, subcommittee, or task force meeting.

The proposed amendment has not been brought to a vote yet in part because some councilors are hesitant to discuss and act on it because of the pending lawsuit.

In court filings, the attorney representing the city and the city councilors named in the lawsuit claims that there was no violation of the state Open Meeting Act.

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A House bill that would make it harder to challenge water rights likely is dead in the current legislative session, according to the bills co-author. Statewide conservation groups want to make sure of it.

Asked about his House Bill 2053, Rep. David Hardin, R-Stilwell said: You mean the one thats on life support? My personal opinion is the bill is dead. Well see, but I think its dead this session. But it will be a live round for next year.

Conservation groups across the state either ignored or thought the bill would go nowhere early in the session, but as it remains alive going into the last three weeks of session, the Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma and its member groups are mounting strong objections.

Hardin said his bill is meant to prevent people not directly impacted by industry from filing frivolous lawsuits against state-issued permits to drill for water. It would dissuade people who are opposed to any particular kind of activity, be it poultry farms, mining, oil, or any other entity, from hindering responsible development via the courts simply because they are opposed to a certain kind of development, he said.

The bill adds a section that emphasizes that waste by pollution is not an OWRB concern, but solely the purview of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry or the Department of Environmental Quality. Therefore, the bill states, a protest based on waste or pollution cannot be challenged through the OWRB.

There are attorneys out there who get neighbors close to whatever type of company it is they dont like and they get them all dragged into a class-action suit, he said.

To that end, his bill also sets a strict standard that any suit filed must first prove irreparable harm or be considered frivolous. It also directs judges to require any challenger who loses in court to pay court costs and attorney fees.

Bill mirrors lawsuits

The bill comes on the heels of three lawsuits that have been finding favor in state courts, however.

Neighbors of large poultry operations filed two lawsuits against the OWRB in Delaware County, one based on pollution concerns and another challenging its failure to consider water shortages. Another, filed against the Ag Department by Spring Creek Coalitiona group of landowners along a pristine stream, challenges that the agency denied them due process and fell short in environmental considerations before issuing permits for so-called poultry mega-farms to build.

The OWRB in court argued that waste and pollution were not its responsibility but that of DEQ and ODAFF. The plaintiffs argued that Ag Department oversight consisted only of a $10 permit and a waste management plan for chicken litter dispersal and that DEQ would only respond to a spill or other disaster, and that this left neighbors with no recourse.

In the Ag Department suit, the agency asked for dismissal early in the suit, claiming that the plaintiffs lacked standing because the were not directly affected by the developments.

Attorney Matthew Alison of Indian & Environmental Law Group at Tulsa said the plaintiff in one of those suits continues to operate but is using less water under a judges order while further action by OWRB is pending.

In the other OWRB case, the judge found that OWRB should consider pollution issues and sent it back to the agency for an administrative hearing, which was held in April.

We are awaiting those determinations, Alison said.

The Ag Department was denied its motion to dismiss and a future court date is pending.

Alison said the suits were not filed against farms because anyone hates farming, but filed against actions taken by an agency that potentially endangered clients left with no means of protest through agency channels.

He declined to discuss the politics of the bill but said, It is concerning when an environmental agency advocates for the narrowing of its own jurisdiction and we have a legislature that is willing to support that.

Challenges lie ahead

Matt Wright, president of the Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma, which counts Spring Creek Coalition as a member group, said the timing of the bill and recent lawsuits seems more than coincidental.

Its hard to ignore the fact that there have been some lawsuits along these lines that have found some success and then legislation like this is introduced, he said.

Wright said a high benchmark already is set to protect developers from frivolous lawsuits filed by just any protestor who doesnt like a particular industry, and that the bill crosses dangerous lines with potentially unintended consequences.

It could tie the hands of small communities or irrigators who see a threat to their water supplies from an encroaching industry of any kind, he said.

To demand people prove irreparable harm before filing a lawsuit is unreasonable. Once youve been irreparably harmed, youre irreparably harmed, he said. You should be able to fight a permit before you have to suffer.

While the bill is listed as being returned to the House with Senate amendments, Hardin said amendments promised by senators for nearly 10 weeks have yet to materialize.

Unless they somehow miraculously appear, the bill will be rejected and sent to conference committee, he said. Its possible the committee could add late amendments, accept the bill and send it to the House in the short time remaining, but Hardin said he believes the practical thought is to just look toward next year.

Its going to conference, I can tell you that much pretty certainly, he said.

The Oklahoma Ecology Project is a nonprofit dedicated to in-depth reporting on Oklahomas conservation and environmental issues. Learn more at okecology.org
No translation needed: At Monday nights board of education meeting, Tulsa Public Schools announced that 106 seniors from nine high schools will graduate in May with the Seal of Biliteracy.

In order to receive the seal, a student must demonstrate oral and written proficiency in at least two languages. Since the 2018-2019 school year, 356 TPS students have earned the seal in both English and at least one of 16 languages.

Along with English, eight additional languages are spoken among this years honorees: Finnish, French, German, Japanese, Latin, Korean, Spanish and Zomi.

Schools represented by this years recipients are Booker T. Washington, East Central, Edison, Hale, McLain, Memorial, Phoenix Rising, Rogers and Tulsa Virtual Academy.

Two of this years seniors, Booker T. Washingtons Bebe Castaneda and Jesus Flores, earned the seal for their fluency in three languages. Along with English and Spanish for both, Castaneda earned it for her proficiency in German, while Flores earned it for French.

Robotics grants: On Tuesday, the Public Service Company of Oklahoma announced $35,000 in grants to Oklahoma robotics teams with awards ranging from $250 to $3,200.

Tulsa-area recipients include Adair Middle School, Adair High School, Booker T. Washington High School, Broken Arrow High School, Grove Public Schools, Jenks High School, Riverfield Country Day School, Tri-County Technology Center in Bartlesville and Union Public Schools.

The windup and the pitch: Tulsa Changemakers will host pitch nights Monday through Thursday for student teams representing 40 Tulsa-area schools.

The organization works with students to find and figure out how to address a need within their communities. During the pitch nights, student teams will present their projects and explain how others can get involved.

All four pitch nights will start at 5:30 p.m. Monday and Wednesdays sessions will be at Rogers College High School, 3909 E. Fifth Place. Tuesdays session will be at Monroe Demonstration Academy, 2010 E. 48th St. North and Thursdays session will be at the Union Multipurpose Activity Center, 6836 S. Mingo Road. All four sessions will also be available via livestream at tinyurl.com/springpitchnights.

Taking the gavel: Three Tulsa-area students will serve on the 2023-2024 Oklahoma FFA state officer team.

Caleb Horne from Morrison will be president, while Skiatooks Garrett Case will be the northeast area vice president and Trey Meyers from Perkins-Tryon FFA will be the central region vice president.

The new officers were elected by delegates at the state convention and announced Wednesday night during the two-day affairs closing session.

The final bell: Thursday is the last day of school for Pretty Water. Friday is the last day of school for Allen Bowden, Anderson and Mannford.

Commencement calendar: Berryhill, Kiefer, KIPP Tulsa University Prep, Sperry and Verdigris will host graduation ceremonies Friday.

Mannfords graduation is scheduled for Saturday.

Graduation for Claremore Sequoyah is scheduled for Sunday.

Stay home days: School is not in session Friday for Berryhill, Collegiate Hall, Mounds and Skiatook. Friday is also a distance learning day for Prue.

School board schedule: The boards of education for Allen Bowden, Anderson, Berryhill, Broken Arrow, Claremore, Claremore Sequoyah, Collinsville, Coweta, Glenpool, Jenks, Liberty, Mannford, Owasso, Sapulpa, Skiatook, Sperry, Union, Verdigris and Wagoner all have regular meetings scheduled for Monday. Tulsa Public Schools board of education has a special meeting Monday.

The board of education for the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board is scheduled to meet Tuesday in Oklahoma City.

The boards of education for Epic Charter Schools and Keystone are scheduled to meet Wednesday.

The boards of education for Bixby and Pretty Water are scheduled to meet Thursday.
Looking back on her time in a hospital setting, Shara Stidham can see better now how it prepared her for what was to come.

A lot of my day involved educating new nurses or staff, or just educating patients on what was about to happen, Stidham said.

Nurses really are teachers in a sense, she added. You cant not love teaching and be a nurse. Or I guess you can  but youre not going to be very effective with your patients.

A registered nurse formerly with Saint Francis Hospital, Stidham this May will officially mark the end of her second full year at Tulsa Community College, where shes an assistant professor of nursing.

There are things about her former work that she misses, like serving at the bedsides of patients. But as she prepares to see another class of nursing graduates head out into the field, she has no regrets, she said.

For the states nursing education programs, though, former working nurses like Stidham  as their primary source for faculty  represent an ongoing conundrum.

The reality is, few nurses are willing or able to make the transition from the clinical ranks to the classroom. And for the programs, while many are still finding ways to increase graduates to help with the states larger nursing shortage, it complicates those efforts.

Officials say the main reason that keeps more nurses from moving into education is financial: Faculty jobs often involve a substantial pay cut, running at least several thousand dollars less a year than in clinical settings.

In fact, the average nursing professor earns less than most nursing graduates do right out of school, officials said.

Additionally, for many, theres the added time and expense of earning the required masters degree.

Shelly Wells, a past Oklahoma Nursing Association president who has studied the issue, said over the past two years every nursing program in the state has had faculty vacancies theyve had a hard time filling.

It is a big issue, she said. What weve found is that a lot of people who think they would be interested in nursing education dont want to take on the cost of a graduate education program  particularly in light of the fact that their salary will be reduced when they leave practice to go into education.

Wells said many of those who do take a faculty position then end up working every weekend in the hospital to make up some of the money.

Quite disheartening

According to the most recent numbers, RNs in Oklahoma make on average around $73,000 annually.

The mean for nursing faculty pay, meanwhile, is $61,758 a year, ranging from around $56,000 at the community college level up to $79,000 at the University of Oklahoma, where the number is higher due to more with doctoral degrees.

Wells said, It can be quite disheartening to be a nursing faculty member and see your brand new graduate leave your program and get a fresh job making more money than you.

Another factor that has led to faculty shortages is retirements, she added.

The average nursing faculty member here is 50 years old, because theyve been at bedside for many years then decide they want to go into nursing education, Wells said. At that age were on the downhill side of our career trajectory. That has played a role because were starting to see more and more of our nursing faculty members retire.

So not only do we not have enough to begin with, we need to replace those were losing or aging.

Carla Lynch, director of Rogers State Universitys health sciences department, said replacing nursing program faculty is a challenge.

Every time we go to hire a new faculty, much negotiation has to happen regarding salary to even make it palatable for them to take the position, she said.

We have fabulous faculty and they mostly teach because they love what they do and because they do like the flexibility of having summers off and holiday breaks, she added. But recruitment is difficult.

The reason is twofold.

We require an advanced degree, masters or higher, and we pay less, Lynch said. Generally, it is a seasoned nurse that will enter into nursing education, and they are paid less than a brand-new nurse with a lower education level.

Faculty was among the issues  along with a lack of clinical and classroom space  that led RSU to enter a new partnership recently with Saint Francis Hospital in Tulsa.

The hospital will serve as an extended campus for RSU beginning in the fall, and will hire two program coordinators and two full-time nursing instructors.

The program was recognized at the State Regents for Higher Educations Business Partnership Excellence Awards on April 27.

Lynch said the program will help RSU, which has been forced to turn away many qualified applicants, expand its total number of nursing graduates by over 50% annually to over 60.

Given faculty and other issues facing nursing programs currently, this kind of outside-the-box thinking has become necessary, she added.

Opportunities

Wells said RSUs partnership is one of several creative models to emerge since the onset of the pandemic to deal with nursing faculty shortages.

The OU College of Nursing has a similar program in Oklahoma City with hospital-prepared staff to serve as clinical instructors.

There might be opportunities for hospitals to participate more in partnering like that, Wells said. But were also aware that the hospitals are kind of strapped financially, as well.

She said a possible incentive the state could provide for nurses to teach could be some kind of loan forgiveness program for an advanced degree.

Some other states have been successful with that, she said.

Having come from the clinical ranks, Stidham knows firsthand how real Oklahomas nursing shortage is. The state ranks 46th among states for the number of RNs per capita.

There was many a time where we were short-staffed and just trying to make it work, she said.

On the instruction side now, it feels good to know shes doing her part to help increase those numbers. Stidham teaches in TCC nursings career mobility program, which serves LPNs and paramedics who are bridging to become RNs.

She understands, though, why its difficult for other nurses to join her as instructors.

Stidham, who joined the TCC faculty in fall 2021, actually earned her masters in nursing in 2010 with an eye toward teaching.

But at the time, I was paying for full-time day care. I just couldnt do it.

Today, she earns about $8,000 to $9,000 less a year than she did at the hospital.

It hasnt been an easy adjustment to make financially, but she appreciates the trade-offs, she said. They include normal hours with weekends off, holiday and summer breaks.

Most of all, theres the rewards of working with students.

Its been a lot more fun than I anticipated, Stidham said. Most of my students are my age or older, and have been working in a clinical setting for a while. Just helping them realize this dream of being an RN, thats been great.
Longtime Tulsa music artist and educator Leon Rollerson, whose passions included preserving history and honoring people from his community, has died.

Leon was known and loved by many, said a post on the Leon Rollerson Productions Facebook page. His name was known around the world. There wasnt a place he could go and not find someone who knew him. He touched so many lives and will be missed dearly.

A memorial service is scheduled 11 a.m. May 19 at Metropolitan Baptist Church.

Rollerson, who died May 3, battled cancer at the end of his life. His father was a survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre who became a pharmacist and owned drug stores, including one he opened on Greenwood Avenue. His mother was a teacher. Rollerson followed in his mothers footsteps.

Music is my soul, but teaching is what I love, Rollerson once said.

Though Rollersons music career spanned decades, a 2017 Tulsa World story pointed out that Rollerson, then 70, had spent 35 years as a teacher in the Tulsa Public Schools system. At the time, he was teaching video at Central High School.

One of the beautiful things about being a teacher is that you get to teach somebody something, Rollerson said. Then, that person can go and teach somebody else. If you dont teach, the knowledge stops right there.

In the 2017 story, Rollerson suggested music has been part of his life since birth.

They told me I used to hum when I was baby, he said. Then, when I got old enough, I started beating on things trying to keep the beat of the music, so they started me on drums.

Rollerson took piano lessons as an elementary school student and later added guitar and bass. By high school, he added trumpet and sax because the only instruments they taught in high school were brass instruments, said Rollerson. So I learned those, too.

The 2017 story said Rollersons versatility made him a valuable member of touring bands. He began touring in the 1960s with the Royal Entertainers, a nationally known band led by Ernie Fields.

I was so lucky to be around those professional musicians, Rollerson said. I wanted to walk like them. I wanted to wear my hat like them. They taught me jazz. What a wonderful time.

The 2017 story said Rollerson came home, graduated from Booker T. Washington in 1964 and went to Langston University. He took an interest in television production and, in the 1960s, launched a local dance show (Master Jam) on Tulsa television. The show was loosely based on American Bandstand.

That experience led to Leon Rollerson Productions, which, according to the companys website, is the the largest minority video, music, production and television broadcasting network in Oklahoma.

Rollerson took it upon himself to present Leon Rollerson Diamond Awards events to honor community members worthy of positive attention.

In 2020, Rollerson announced the opening of the Leon Rollerson Historical Museum: Greenwood and the People.
A Tulsa-area higher education partnership will kick off its third year this fall by expanding to a third area of study.

Officials announced Monday that College Park  a collaboration between Oklahoma State University-Tulsa and Tulsa Community College to bring an affordable, public, four-year degree option to Tulsa  will add engineering this fall to go with its current offerings of business and psychology.

Upon acceptance, engineering students will be eligible for at least a $1,000 textbook and supply voucher and/or tuition scholarship, officials said.

Leigh Goodson, TCC president and CEO, said: College Park has a single focus to effectively and efficiently graduate more students with a bachelors degree in high-demand, high-pay areas. We understand our workforce needs more engineers and we are actively working to fulfill that need.

The announcement comes as College Park is wrapping up its second full year this week. A graduation celebration is set for 4-5 p.m. Thursday at OSU-Tulsas North Hall.

College Park, introduced in 2021, streamlines the four-year degree process, allowing students to complete an associates degree from TCC, followed by a bachelors from OSU-Tulsa.

Students who pursue the engineering pathway will be able to choose from one of OSU-Tulsas engineering-related majors. They will also have opportunities for embedded internships with Tulsa employers.

Adding engineering as a College Park pathway is a natural step as we expand industry-aligned education options for Tulsas workforce, said Dr. Johnny Stephens, interim president of OSU-Tulsa and president of OSU Center for Health Sciences.

He said College Park students will learn alongside upper-division and graduate students at OSU-Tulsas Helmerich Advanced Technology Research Center.

The opportunity to work with students at all levels and experience hands-on advanced technology research with OSU faculty brings another dimension to the College Park experience, Stephens said.

Officials said the College Park expansion is made possible through a U.S. Economic Development Administration Build Back Better regional challenge grant.

In addition to the expansion, TCC will use its share to help increase enrollment in its engineering technology, electrical technician and aerospace drafting certificate programs.

OSUs share of the funding will help with creation of the LaunchPad Center of Advanced Air Mobility at OSU-Tulsa, which will focus on research and development of drone technology and urban air mobility.

College Park applications for fall 2023 are open. The priority deadline is June 30. For more information, go to collegeparktulsa.com.

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At least seven pedestrians were killed and several others injured on Sunday when an SUV mowed down people near a homeless shelter that attends to migrants in Brownsville, Texas, police said. The male driver was in custody, Lieutenant Martin Sandoval of the Brownsville Police Department said, adding he was charged with reckless driving and could face additional charges. Sandoval said the victims in the morning crash were waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a shelter for the homeless used by migrants. He said some migrants were among the dead. A police officer is consoled after a deadly incident where a car ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless, in Brownsville, Texas, U.S. May 7, 2023. Photo: Reuters "We are doing an investigation in forms of intoxication to see if he was intoxicated at the time of the accident," said Sandoval on Fox News. It was not clear if the driver had crashed into the group intentionally or lost control of the vehicle, Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. of Cameron County was quoted as telling the New York Times. There no immediate details on how many people were injured or their condition. Law enforcement officers investigate the scene after a deadly incident where a car ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless, in Brownsville, Texas, U.S. May 7, 2023. Photo: Reuters The city of Brownsville, on the border with Mexico, is one of the places expecting an influx of migrants when COVID-era restrictions under Title 42 expire on Thursday. A video circulating online purporting to show the crash shows a speeding SUV plowing into a row of people sitting on the curb. A second video of the aftermath appears to show victims lying on the ground, some bloodied and writhing, while others lay motionless. Reuters was not able to independently verify the authenticity of the videos.

At least seven pedestrians were killed and several others injured on Sunday when an SUV mowed down people near a homeless shelter that attends to migrants in Brownsville, Texas, police said.

The male driver was in custody, Lieutenant Martin Sandoval of the Brownsville Police Department said, adding he was charged with reckless driving and could face additional charges.

Sandoval said the victims in the morning crash were waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a shelter for the homeless used by migrants. He said some migrants were among the dead.

A police officer is consoled after a deadly incident where a car ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless, in Brownsville, Texas, U.S. May 7, 2023. Photo: Reuters

"We are doing an investigation in forms of intoxication to see if he was intoxicated at the time of the accident," said Sandoval on Fox News.

It was not clear if the driver had crashed into the group intentionally or lost control of the vehicle, Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. of Cameron County was quoted as telling the New York Times.

There no immediate details on how many people were injured or their condition.

Law enforcement officers investigate the scene after a deadly incident where a car ran into pedestrians near Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless, in Brownsville, Texas, U.S. May 7, 2023. Photo: Reuters

The city of Brownsville, on the border with Mexico, is one of the places expecting an influx of migrants when COVID-era restrictions under Title 42 expire on Thursday.

A video circulating online purporting to show the crash shows a speeding SUV plowing into a row of people sitting on the curb. A second video of the aftermath appears to show victims lying on the ground, some bloodied and writhing, while others lay motionless.

Reuters was not able to independently verify the authenticity of the videos.
Vietnam and Qatar are eyeing closer cooperation in various fields such as trade, investment, and tourism, heard a talk between Vietnam Vice-State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Deputy Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Sunday, as part of the formers three-day visit to the country. The two leaders of the two nations saw much potential for bilateral partnership, so they reached a consensus on collaboration in holding investment and trade promotion programs and business forums in the coming months. To make a breakthrough in trade activities, the Vietnamese official proposed the Western Asian nation open its wider door for Vietnams seafood, agricultural products, and processed food. She also proposed Qatar share its experience with and support Vietnam in building a financial hub and a Halal certification center. Halal refers to food products and services that adhere to Muslim law. The deputy amir of Qatar affirmed that his country always prioritizes cooperation in trade, investment, and agriculture with Vietnam. He also expressed his desire for the exchange of experience in energy, education, and farming development. Vietnam and Qatar identified investment as the two nations priority in the years to come. The two leaders agreed to promote cooperation between investment firms and funds in the infrastructure, transport, seaport, and renewable energy fields. Vietnam expected to welcome more tourists from Qatar in the coming months, said Vice-State President Xuan. To strengthen the multi-faceted cooperation, the two leaders agreed to host the third session of the Vietnam-Qatar Joint Committee as soon as possible, and speed up the signing of cooperation agreements. On the occasion, Vice-President Xuan conveyed Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuongs invitation to Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to visit Vietnam this year. She invited the deputy amir to Vietnam at a suitable time, planning to jointly organize the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023. Vietnam Vice-State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan (L) shakes hands with Qatars Minister of Commerce and Industry Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani. Photo: Vietnam News Agency At a meeting between Vietnamese Vice President Xuan and Qatars Minister of Commerce and Industry Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani on Sunday, the Vietnamese official proposed Qatar create more favorable conditions for the two nations energy firms to boost natural gas imports. She also proposed diversifying and expanding investment methods, and smoothing the path for the firms from the two countries to join cooperation agreements, reported the Vietnam News Agency. Vice-President Xuan is on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar from May 3 to 8, as part of the 'Developing partnership between Vietnam and Middle East-African nations in the 2016-25 period' program. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Vietnam and Qatar are eyeing closer cooperation in various fields such as trade, investment, and tourism, heard a talk between Vietnam Vice-State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Deputy Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Thani in Doha on Sunday, as part of the formers three-day visit to the country.

The two leaders of the two nations saw much potential for bilateral partnership, so they reached a consensus on collaboration in holding investment and trade promotion programs and business forums in the coming months.

To make a breakthrough in trade activities, the Vietnamese official proposed the Western Asian nation open its wider door for Vietnams seafood, agricultural products, and processed food.

She also proposed Qatar share its experience with and support Vietnam in building a financial hub and a Halal certification center.

Halal refers to food products and services that adhere to Muslim law.

The deputy amir of Qatar affirmed that his country always prioritizes cooperation in trade, investment, and agriculture with Vietnam.

He also expressed his desire for the exchange of experience in energy, education, and farming development.

Vietnam and Qatar identified investment as the two nations priority in the years to come.

The two leaders agreed to promote cooperation between investment firms and funds in the infrastructure, transport, seaport, and renewable energy fields.

Vietnam expected to welcome more tourists from Qatar in the coming months, said Vice-State President Xuan.

To strengthen the multi-faceted cooperation, the two leaders agreed to host the third session of the Vietnam-Qatar Joint Committee as soon as possible, and speed up the signing of cooperation agreements.

On the occasion, Vice-President Xuan conveyed Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuongs invitation to Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to visit Vietnam this year.

She invited the deputy amir to Vietnam at a suitable time, planning to jointly organize the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023.

Vietnam Vice-State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan (L) shakes hands with Qatars Minister of Commerce and Industry Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

At a meeting between Vietnamese Vice President Xuan and Qatars Minister of Commerce and Industry Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani on Sunday, the Vietnamese official proposed Qatar create more favorable conditions for the two nations energy firms to boost natural gas imports.

She also proposed diversifying and expanding investment methods, and smoothing the path for the firms from the two countries to join cooperation agreements, reported the Vietnam News Agency.

Vice-President Xuan is on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar from May 3 to 8, as part of the 'Developing partnership between Vietnam and Middle East-African nations in the 2016-25 period' program.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Many parts of Vietnams northern region experienced heavy rains from Sunday evening to early Monday morning, after many days of scorching temperatures. Notably, hail hit Cao Bang Province, causing damage to many house roofs. The northeastern region, Lao Cai, Yen Bai and Hoa Binh provinces, and other provinces from Thanh Hoa to Quang Tri, received medium to heavy downpours, according to the national weather center. From 7:00 pm on Sunday to 8:00 am on Monday, rainfalls in Thai Nguyen and Tuyen Quang Provinces in the northern region were measured at 140 and 155 millimeters, respectively. Heavy rains, plus strong winds, blew away the roofs of many houses and toppled tens of trees in Thai Nguyen. Some streets in Thai Nguyen City in the namesake province were submerged in the rainwater on Sunday night, while many households in the low-lying areas were struggling with rainwater entering their houses. In Dong Hy District in the province, several roads were so badly flooded that officials signaled danger to residents. In Cao Bang Province, hail swept through many mountainous communes in Ha Quang, Trung Khanh, and Quang Hoa Districts on Sunday afternoon. The hail lasted for nearly one hour, damaging crops and houses, said the leader of Ha Quang District. Locals said that hailstones measured from 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in diameter. Heavy rains, coupled with thunderstorms, battered the north-central province of Nghe An on Sunday afternoon, leaving one wounded, blowing away 75 house roofs, and destroying six houses and three power poles, according to the national steering committee for natural disaster prevention and control. The northern region and the localities from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien-Hue are forecast to experience rains with precipitation ranging from 20mm to 80mm on Monday. It rained lightly in Hanoi during rush hour on Monday morning, causing traffic jams on several main routes. The city might continue to experience moderate to heavy downpours, with a rainfall reaching up to 70mm on Monday. The Central Highlands and southern regions will face heavy downpours and thunderstorms on Monday evening. Many parts of Ho Chi Minh City had much-awaited rains on Monday morning. Minh Cau Street in Thai Nguyen City is submerged following downpours. Photo: Thai Nguyen New A wedding makeshift tent is destroyed by a heavy rain in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: P. Thao / Tuoi Tre A house roof is blown away by strong winds in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: Thai Nguyen Radio and TV A field in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam is covered in hailstones. Photo: Cao Bang Hong Big hailstones are pictured in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam, May 7, 2023. Photo: Cao Bang Hong Authorities in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam are reviewing damage caused by heavy rains. Photo: Thai Nguyen Radio and TV A traffic jam is pictured on a route in Hanoi on May 8, 2023. Photo: Chi Tue / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Many parts of Vietnams northern region experienced heavy rains from Sunday evening to early Monday morning, after many days of scorching temperatures.

Notably, hail hit Cao Bang Province, causing damage to many house roofs.

The northeastern region, Lao Cai, Yen Bai and Hoa Binh provinces, and other provinces from Thanh Hoa to Quang Tri, received medium to heavy downpours, according to the national weather center.

From 7:00 pm on Sunday to 8:00 am on Monday, rainfalls in Thai Nguyen and Tuyen Quang Provinces in the northern region were measured at 140 and 155 millimeters, respectively.

Heavy rains, plus strong winds, blew away the roofs of many houses and toppled tens of trees in Thai Nguyen.

Some streets in Thai Nguyen City in the namesake province were submerged in the rainwater on Sunday night, while many households in the low-lying areas were struggling with rainwater entering their houses.

In Dong Hy District in the province, several roads were so badly flooded that officials signaled danger to residents.

In Cao Bang Province, hail swept through many mountainous communes in Ha Quang, Trung Khanh, and Quang Hoa Districts on Sunday afternoon.

The hail lasted for nearly one hour, damaging crops and houses, said the leader of Ha Quang District.

Locals said that hailstones measured from 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in diameter.

Heavy rains, coupled with thunderstorms, battered the north-central province of Nghe An on Sunday afternoon, leaving one wounded, blowing away 75 house roofs, and destroying six houses and three power poles, according to the national steering committee for natural disaster prevention and control.

The northern region and the localities from Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien-Hue are forecast to experience rains with precipitation ranging from 20mm to 80mm on Monday.

It rained lightly in Hanoi during rush hour on Monday morning, causing traffic jams on several main routes.

The city might continue to experience moderate to heavy downpours, with a rainfall reaching up to 70mm on Monday.

The Central Highlands and southern regions will face heavy downpours and thunderstorms on Monday evening.

Many parts of Ho Chi Minh City had much-awaited rains on Monday morning.

Minh Cau Street in Thai Nguyen City is submerged following downpours. Photo: Thai Nguyen New

A wedding makeshift tent is destroyed by a heavy rain in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: P. Thao / Tuoi Tre

A house roof is blown away by strong winds in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam. Photo: Thai Nguyen Radio and TV

A field in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam is covered in hailstones. Photo: Cao Bang Hong

Big hailstones are pictured in Cao Bang Province, northern Vietnam, May 7, 2023. Photo: Cao Bang Hong

Authorities in Thai Nguyen Province, northern Vietnam are reviewing damage caused by heavy rains. Photo: Thai Nguyen Radio and TV

A traffic jam is pictured on a route in Hanoi on May 8, 2023. Photo: Chi Tue / Tuoi Tre

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
A 48-year-old man set a house on fire with gasoline, killing himself and injuring three others in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam over a love conflict on Sunday. Police in Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai reported on Sunday afternoon that they were coordinating with provincial criminal police officers to investigate the case. The preliminary investigation showed that Phan Hoang Uy Vu, and D.N.B., a 43-year-old resident in Quyet Thang Ward, Bien Hoa City, were in a relationship. However, they were recently involved in disputes, so B. wanted to break up with Vu but he disagreed. At around 1:15 pm on Sunday, Vu bought 10 liters of gasoline and came to B.s house in Quarter 3, Quyet Thang Ward. At the time, B. was not at home, so Vu opened the doors and set fire to the house. Vu later brought the remaining gasoline to a store which B. rented to sell ornamental fish in Quarter 1, Quyet Thang Ward. B. was not there either but her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild were there. Vu poured gasoline to the ground and set the store on fire. T.V.N., 29, B.s son-in-law, tried to prevent Vu's act, but it did not work. The fire spread quickly to items at the store, killing Vu on the spot and seriously injuring the remaining three. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

A 48-year-old man set a house on fire with gasoline, killing himself and injuring three others in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam over a love conflict on Sunday.

Police in Bien Hoa City, Dong Nai reported on Sunday afternoon that they were coordinating with provincial criminal police officers to investigate the case.

The preliminary investigation showed that Phan Hoang Uy Vu, and D.N.B., a 43-year-old resident in Quyet Thang Ward, Bien Hoa City, were in a relationship.

However, they were recently involved in disputes, so B. wanted to break up with Vu but he disagreed.

At around 1:15 pm on Sunday, Vu bought 10 liters of gasoline and came to B.s house in Quarter 3, Quyet Thang Ward.

At the time, B. was not at home, so Vu opened the doors and set fire to the house.

Vu later brought the remaining gasoline to a store which B. rented to sell ornamental fish in Quarter 1, Quyet Thang Ward.

B. was not there either but her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild were there.

Vu poured gasoline to the ground and set the store on fire.

T.V.N., 29, B.s son-in-law, tried to prevent Vu's act, but it did not work.

The fire spread quickly to items at the store, killing Vu on the spot and seriously injuring the remaining three.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Dateline this week investigates why people in Beirut have stormed banks out of despair to seize back their deposits, including one woman who held up a bank to get her own cash back.

In August last year, Ahmad al-Sheikh Hussein received a phone call that would throw his world into a tailspin.

It was around seven oclock, and I was with my son at his training in western Sydney. One of my brothers in Lebanon telephoned me. He told me that our brother had attacked a bank.

Ahmad was informed that his brother, Bassam, had walked into a local bank branch in west Beiruts Hamra district carrying a rifle and container of petrol and had threatened to burn down the building if the manager didnt give him exactly US$210,000 ($315,000). It was his total savings.

Over the last few decades, Lebanon has lurched from one crisis to the next and is now in the throes of the worst economic collapse any country has experienced in more than a century, with three-quarters of its population living in poverty.

Inflation has been triple-digit, and the Lebanese pound has lost around 90 per cent of its value against the US dollar. As people struggle to afford basic necessities, such as food and medicine, many have been locked out of their own savings. Bassam was one of them.

There have since been at least 10 other robberies where people have stormed banks out of despair to seize back their deposits. As with Bassam, these would-be Robin Hoods are not being formally charged or facing prison beyond their initial arrest, but are instead garnering widespread sympathy and judicial leniency.

9:30pm Tuesday on SBS.
When UK detective Max Drummond (John Bradley) is assigned to observe an investigation in Sydney his marriage is struggling and he is raising unwelcome questions about possible corruption in another case close to home.

Max is too ethical for his own good, it seems, but observing a case down under may test him more.

The Sydney case concerns the washed up body of Sophie, the 19 year old daughter of Abigail Crawford (Joanne Froggatt), a British Trade Minister who leans on him to get to the bottom of it all, in 10s new miniseries, North Shore.

Helming the investigation is Detective Sgt Meg Driscoll (Kirsty Sturgess), accompanied by Det. Paea Leniu (Chris Alosio), who doesnt welcome the British looking over her shoulder. But the stakes are raised when it turns into the first murder case for Meg.

Grieving mother Abigail also has to deal with political pressures of a trade deal between the two nations, against a backdrop of power games back home and the aspirations of Australias Labor Opposition Leader (Matt Passmore).

Writer Mike Bullen (Cold Feet) weaves intersecting plotlines between the personal and professional, dramatised via Sophies boyfriend Tom (Max Mayer-Rayment), his best friend Oscar (Jonathan Lagudi), and Toms dad, businessman Lloyd Macklin (Rob Carlton). Theres also Abigails husband Simon (Dan Spielman), a Labor media advisor (Toby Truslove), Abigails UK advisor (George Pullar) and more.

Its a lot to keep up with as viewers face red herrings, secrets and lies, such as audiences have come to expect of premium drama.

Bullen, who moved to Australia many years ago, also drops in his own cultural observations

North Shore is the Chelsea of Sydney.

Australians pronounce party pardy its really annoying, insists Max.

Why do you spell Labor without a U? is another

In a serious-heavy drama, these light observations add colour, as do the performances of the cast.

John Bradleys emotive face, so memorable as Game of Thrones Sam, shows empathy and stress as he ricochets between mother Abigail and Aussie detective Meg. Joanne Froggatts cool exterior cracks briefly before she resumes her trademark steely resolve.

I dont know what else to do. I have to carry on, we have to carry on. we have to be strong or this will destroy us, she tells husband Simon.

Rob Carlton is gnarly as a shadowy multimillionaire and its great to see diverse casting of the two local detectives in Kirsty Sturgess and Chris Alosio, although the series is aimed heavily at a UK audience, keeping the pair largely abrasive in contrast to the smarter, kindly British observer. Even an Aussie waitress is unnecessarily rude to her UK customers. Why visit down under, there are sharks, murders, rude cops and dodgy hotels with coackroaches?

Episode two also has a bizarre charade in order to corroborate an ailibi, but these are minor quibbles in an otherwise enjoyable mystery in the antipodes.

10 has been moving towards Australian / UK co-productions of late with Lie to Me from Fremantle, with Riptide and Heat still to come. North Shore directed by Gregor Jordan is produced by Beach Road Pictures, co-founded by David Maher and David Taylor, formerly of Playmaker Media (House Husbands, Love Child, The Code, The Commons) and will keep you guessing.

Two clashing detectives forced to work together may not be a new concept, but in North Shore it is handled with aplomb by the lead cast and a harbour so good 10 is also showcasing it as the home of NCIS: Sydney.

North Shore airs 8:40pm Wednesday on 10.
The Screen Diversity and Inclusion Network has announced the incoming SDIN Co-Chairs who will lead the advocacy group for the next two years.

They are the Head of Film and Screen Studies at Monash University, Olivia Khoo, and SBS Scripted Commissioning Editor, Loani Arman who succeed Michelle Cheng (SBS Content Industry Diversity Manager) and Kelrick Martin (ABC Head of Indigenous),

Olivia Khoo (pictured right) said: I am excited to be contributing to this next phase of the Networks future. With the second iteration of the Everyone Countsreport to start working on, Australias screen industries are well placed to make significant strides in improving diversity and inclusion and Im looking forward to working with our screen organisations, research and educational institutions, and my co-Chair Loani Arman to make this happen.

Loani Arman (pictured left) said: Im thrilled to be working closely with Olivia and the SDIN membership to continue the work we need to do across the industry, building on The Everyone Project and seeking out and developing talent from historically excluded backgrounds through long-term measurable programs and funding. Id like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of outgoing co-chairs Kelrick Martin and Michelle Cheng and thank them for all the work theyve done over the past two years.

Meanwhile Latecomers, produced by Lazy Susan Films and Mad Ones Films, was announced as the winner of the annual SDIN Award, at the 21st Annual SPA Awards.

Latecomers was created by Angus Thompson and Emma Myers, who have drawn on their own experiences of living with cerebral palsy to tell this story of two strangers with cerebral palsy who, after watching their care workers hook up at a bar, become determined to explore their own relationships with sex and each other. The series stars Angus Thompson and Hannah Diviney, and Alistair Baldwin, who identifies as living with a disability, directed one of the episodes.

Michelle Cheng and Kelrick Martin said:

Latecomers is unlike any program Australia has ever seen  hilarious, relatable and game changing  it shows the power and authenticity coming from creators with lived experience, telling stories about their own community. As Sarah and Frank navigate their relationships with sex and each other as people with cerebral palsy, this groundbreaking series is shifting perceptions and attitudes towards people with disability in Australia.

The shortlist also recognised First Day, series two, produced by Epic Films and KOJO Studios and The Australian Wars by Blackfella Films.

Olivia Khoo

Olivia Khoo is Head of Film and Screen Studies at Monash University. She holds a PhD in Cultural Studies from the University of Melbourne, a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from the University of New South Wales, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Western Australia. Olivia is a member of the Australian Research Council (ARC) College of Experts and is internationally recognised for her research on Asian and Asian Australian cinema, gender, sexuality and screen media. She is the author/ co-editor of seven books, including Transnational Australian Cinema: Ethics in the Asian Diasporas and Futures of Chinese Cinema: Technologies and Temporalities in Chinese Screen Cultures. Olivia is Chair of the Asian Australian Studies Research Network, which she co-founded in 2006. With Audrey Yue and Belinda Smaill, she produced a database of over 500 Asian Australian films, as part of a government-funded ARC Discovery Project grant on the History of Asian Australian cinema. Olivia has collaborated with international organisations to promote screen diversity, including the Hong Kong Film Archive, the Taipei Artists Village, and the Asian Film Archive, Singapore. She has served for many years as Associate Editor of Metro magazine (ATOM: Australian Teachers of Media), and Series Editor of the Gender, Sexualities and Cultures in Asia book series (Palgrave Macmillan). In her spare time, Olivia sings with Australias longest running LGBTQIA+ choir, the Melbourne Gay and Lesbian Chorus, Inc, of which she was former Secretary, and volunteers for Wildlife Victoria to rescue injured native animals.

Loani Arman

Loani Arman is a proud Indonesian-Australian woman and joined SBS in 2022 as Scripted Commissioning Editor. In the role, Loani works across the development and production of scripted content and oversees SBS short form drama slate and other talent development initiatives. For SBS, she has been the Executive Producer on Latecomers, which was the only Australian production to screen at Series Mania this year, and Appetite, which recently screened in competition at Canneseries. Prior to SBS, Loani was a Content Director at Screen Queensland where she led their development programs and initiatives. Earlier in her career, she was the Drama Associate for Showtime Australia, working across original drama commissions including Cloudstreet and Tangle. As a screen creative, Loani has had a drama series in development through the STAN / Screen Queensland Premium Drama Fund. In 2020, her documentary series, My Body Says (ABC), won the inaugural AIDC Best Short Form Award; and in 2019, Loani was the winner of the AACTA Pitch Competition with her film, Our Greatest Escape.
Aatika S | TwoCircles

As the internationally celebrated event of Dalit History month comes to an end, the Indian subcontinent is reeling with an increased appropriation and attack on the thoughts and figure of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar-the modern intellectual and statesman. One such incident of desecration happened 100 kms away from the national capital, in Neemka village situated in Gautam Buddhs Nagar Jewar block on 18th April, four days after the 132nd celebration of Ambedkar Jayanti on 14 April.

Traditionally a Bahujan Samaj Party bastion, the Neemka village has recently been in the headlines for the construction of the Noida International Airport on its arable land. The village located along Khurja road and comprising roughly 4000 people is a mix of a majority of Scheduled Castes, and a minority of Jats, Brahmins and a few Muslim families.

As one travels in a bus from the Uttar Pradesh border towards Jewar police station on the Agra Expressway, wall murals of the Taj Mahal appear across the dotted green terrain. Steadily, modern architecture fades away and one is left with the basics- a school, one-storied

construction, fields and vast arrays of agricultural land under siege by real estate giants as well a 108 ft tall Krishna sculpture situated in the premises of the Gaur International School.

As I entered the Jewar police station, I noticed the conspicuous presence of a big Shiv temple inside the station premises. A photo frame of Bhagat Singh, Gandhi and Babasaheb Ambedkar adorns the wall inside the police station.

When enquired about the desecration, the police inspector Gajendra Singh asked me to check with the Sub Inspector Lakhan Singh incharge of the police post at Neemka. He is the official investigating the case booked on the desecration. He didnt give me any information. There has been no electricity in the room for hours due to the construction of the airport that has impacted the life of the village to a great extent.

The gram pradhan, Arvind Kumar is also at the post. It was at that moment that he introduced himself and narrated the entire episode. Arvind, a BJP leader, is the son of the erstwhile pradhan, Tejpal Singh who fought from the BSP. Arvind belongs to the Jat community and attributes his familys continuous victory to the Dalits support.

He alleged that Rajpals family ( the dalit family who gave land for installation of the statue) must have desecrated the statue in order to shift the statue elsewhere so that they could get compensation by the airpot authority for the entire land in which their house is built. However, later, Rajpals family termed the allegation as bizarre.

Takes Months to Overcome Caste Resistance to Install Ambedkars Statue

The contestations over the statues of Ambedkar go back to the late 1990s. According to the social scientist Christopher Jaffrelot Radhey Lal Boudh, a leader of the Dalit Panthers started the aesthetic and political strategy of installing statues of Ambedkar in order to propagate Ambedkarite iconography and assert control over land.

In 1994, two demonstrators who were protesting against the removal of an Ambedkar statue from a public park in Meerut were killed by the police. Many more lives were to be later sacrificed for the cause.

The disfigurement of the bespectacled Ambedkar sculpture took place on the night of 18 April according to the locals. The sculpture was adorned in the traditional blue and white with the Constitution of India in his left arm while the now broken right arm extended to the sky with an upraised index finger.

The statue was installed on the initiatives of the local Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Samiti on 9 April in 2001 and inaugurated by the then BJP Lok Sabha MP of Khurja Ashok Pradhan, despite resistance of the Jats.

The statue was installed but not without lengthy controversy and powerful resistance by the local upper caste Jatos and Thakurs. Before its installation the statue was kept covered at a nearby park for nine months since the Jats and Thakurs refused to enter the village from beneath a chamars statue that was initially meant to be stationed at the top of the village entrance gate. A settlement was facilitated by the then gram pradhan Tejpal Singh and the funds were collected from the Dalit households.

After a controversy around the piece of land on which the statue was supposed to be installed initially, Rajpal Singh, a local dalit teacher offered his land. And finally, the statue was installed next to the main gate of Rajpal Singhs house.

Dalit Perspective on Desecration

In Neemka it is time of wheat and sugarcane harvesting however an eerie silence looms large. In Neemka, most Dalits are landless farm labour. In sharp contrast, most members of Rajpals family are literate. Abhishek Gautam, the deceased school teachers son who has taken up the cudgels of his fathers dalit activism. A doctor by training, he heads the local social justice forum- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Yuva Jan Kalyan Samiti along with Sunil Kumar, Rajeev Kumar and other Dalit men of nearby areas extending up to the Naya Bans village in Noida.

Abhisheks house, situated along the main road, is painted in green and blue. While his Alto 800 car adorns a Buddha sticker. Inside, the Panchsheel Buddhist flags and posters of Ramabai, Kanshiram, Mayawati and other anti-caste leaders adorn the walls of the drawing room along with certificates and medals for his familys service to the cause. The one storied house has been partitioned into three to run a nursing home and a kirana store.

As he shares the details, he opens the hasp of the enclosure to let me in to touch the new Ambedkar statue. He narrates the ordeal of the vandalism along with his family members chipping in every once and then. His mother, cousin brother and few others too seem traumatised due to the incident and its aftermath. Abhisheks mother said the assailants knew about the camera location and hence deliberately disfigured the statue from the other side.

Abhishek vehemently contests the allegations of Arvind against the Dalits. He contends the defacement to be the action of a group of men with a pre planned ulterior motive. Abhishek and his dalit friends wanted to bury the desecrated statue, but couldnt because the Jewar police took it under custody.

Arvind signs off by saying that seventeen freedom fighters hailed from Neemka village and that he will try his best to ensure the village keeps up its contribution to the Yogi Adityanath-led project of nation building.

Aftermath of the Incident

As the news about the desecration spread, local Dalit families blocked the road as a means of protest. The local police including officials from the Intelligence Bureau were stationed in the village for two days under an apprehension of caste flare up. However no arrest was made. But the national media reported the detaining of three minors and two men, all belonging to the Thakur community, from a nearby village Rabupura for disturbing peace and tearing blue flags, banners and posters on the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti. The tik tok video of the purported incident filmed on the beats of Thakur ka Sikka song, had also gone viral on social media garnering praises for the Thakur men and their casteist actions.

An FIR was filed by the Jewar police against unidentified persons for inciting violence and other criminal charges on 19 April under sections 153-A about offence committed in a place of worship or in any assembly engaged in the performance of religious worship or religious ceremonies, 295-A on outraging the religious feelings of any class and 427 on causing mischief, of the Indian Penal Code.

A New Statue

After the desecration, a new statue was installed and unveiled in the enclosure on 19 April after a ceremony by Buddhist monks and fellow Ambedkarites in the presence of Arvind Kumar, police officials and State representatives. It was bought from Lucknow at a cost of Rs. 60,000/- from the sculpture artist, Jai Kishor Sagar by Rajpals son Abhishek and an administrative officer. The 6 ft bronze statue of Ambedkar now has a golden veneer.

As colossal Ambedkar statues are being established all over India especially by the State, incidents of desecration also seem to be increasing. However the counter from the Dalit community is gaining momentum too. A few days after the desecration in Neemka village, on 23 April, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Yuva Sangharsh Samiti unveiled an Ambedkar statue in the Pragya Swaroop Buddha Vihar in Sheikhupur Raura village in Bulandshahr district, just 50 kms off Jewar, in a large-scale cultural program.

The defacement is a tell-tale case of caste atrocity but it is also a story of the upper castes phobia of statues of dalit leaders and symbols. It is part of a sinister project of erasure of the material culture of the Dalit community often through lethal and violent acts of destruction.

(Aatika is a fellow at the SEEDS-TCN mentorship program)
Humza Yousaf said the investigation into the SNP has caused him 'frustration' since entering office (Image: PA)

FIRST Minister Humza Yousaf has described ex-SNP chief executive Peter Murrells arrest as gut-wrenching as he revealed the frustration it has caused him in his first few weeks in office.

In a detailed interview with Holyrood magazine, Yousaf laid bare the impact the investigation into the partys finances has had on him.

He said he couldnt believe the news when it emerged Murrell had been arrested  before later being released without charge  given he and his wife Nicola Sturgeon were friends and had helped him through his political career.

The probe centres around how 600,000 in donations to the party which were meant to be for a future independence referendum have been used.

Yousaf added he had already been frustrated by the debacle over the partys membership numbers during the leadership contest - where it transpired the SNP had lost 30,000 members despite the press previously being told this was not the case  and he feels the investigation on top of that has overshadowed the start to his premiership.

READ MORE: Labour Party slammed for stance on anti-protest legislation

Asked about the moment Murrell was arrested, Yousaf told Holyrood magazine: It was really gut wrenching, actually; I make no bones about it.

I have known Peter and Nicola for many, many years. They are friends of mine. They are people that have helped me throughout my political career. And, frankly, I couldnt quite believe the news.

But then I also understood the magnitude of the impact it would have on the politics, but also, frankly, on the party, as well. But my job is to lead, and Ive got to make sure I steer the party through what are probably some of its choppiest waters.

In quickly realising the giant ripples it would send through the party and its membership, Yousaf knew he had no time for any sentiment and had to focus on what he could control around transparency and the way he and his team governed.

He added: Im only in control of what Im in control of. And I try my best to remind myself of that. So, Im not in control of what happens next in terms of the police investigation.

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What I am in control of, though, from a party perspective, is the governance weve got in place. What can we do around transparency? What can we do about our financial oversight? How I communicate to the public that this is a party you can trust. And how I communicate to our members that were not down and out.

And then Ive got to do that while still being the First Minister. And thats the real challenge.

But what I found in the last few weeks, and Ive even heard some of our opponents begrudgingly admit, is that actually the government side of things has gone quite well.

The National: Humza Yousaf tried to set out his Government's route forward at an anti-poverty summit last week

Humza Yousaf tried to set out his Government's route forward at an anti-poverty summit last week (Image: PA)

Weve been able to begin the process of refresh and resetting some of the important relationships with business, and the like, but yes, I feel frustration, of course, that it has been overshadowed, totally, by whats happened in the past.

I dont feel betrayal. Frustration, for sure. Not betrayal. But frustration that issues that started even before the election contest finished with the membership numbers debacle, it just didnt have to happen and led to a whole disruption within the party.

I definitely feel a sense of frustration. Not betrayal, but selfishly, a frustration that this is going on while I also have a big job to do to lead the country.

Yousaf added he was not expecting anyone to pull out a small violin but revealed how he had been working until midnight most nights in an effort to rebuild the party alongside his day-to-day duties.

Elsewhere in the interview, Yousaf was pressed on the SNPs relationship with the Greens in Government.

He was asked why he felt it was important to keep the Bute House Agreement going given the toxicity around the Gender Recognition Reform Bill and other unpopular policies including the Deposit Return Scheme and Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).

He said: For a couple of reasons. One, you have to remember our membership voted for it overwhelmingly [the agreement] and I have made a big pitch about listening, quite rightly, to our membership.

The second reason for me, having been elected to this place first in 2011, the atmosphere in 2011 compared to now is very different, and I and anybody who observes our politics, would say that the atmosphere here at times is more toxic than I think its ever been.

The Greens will push us hard on a number of issues, and theyll have to compromise on issues, it involves us having to compromise, and thats not a bad way at all of doing politics. But for me as First Minister, having that majority in the chamber is worth its weight in gold.

Yousaf also spoke about his grandparents journey to the UK from Pakistan and how he has felt closer to his paternal grandfather - Muhammad Yousaf - in recent weeks than ever before.

The FMs father arrived from Pakistan with his family in 1964 seeking a better life post-partition while his mothers family, who were of South Asian descent, fled from Kenya post-independence as hostilities towards Indians increased.

He told how his mothers family in Kenya had been attacked a few times  including his maternal grandmother being attacked with an axe.

Given my own heritage as a Scottish-Pakistani, it was a particular pleasure meeting the Prime Minister of Pakistan @CMShehbaz while in London today.



We both committed to strengthening the friendship between our two countries, across a range of areas of cooperation.  https://t.co/35PXKyZVvb  Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) May 7, 2023

Yousaf - who met the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, at the weekend - said he had not been that close to his paternal grandfather when he was alive, but he had thought about him a huge amount since he entered Bute House.

Bizarrely, I have felt closer to him in the last four or five weeks than I think I ever have in my life when he was alive, Yousaf said.

That sounds like a really strange thing to say but I think all of this, becoming First Minister, has made me reflect so much on the journey he must have made to get here.

One of the really lovely things that happened when I got elected First Minister was that virtually every single person in my grandads hometown in Pakistan must have tried to call me.

READ MORE: Stephen Flynn: Labour and LibDem voters must vote SNP to unseat Tories

I have no idea how they got my number, but I was getting calls from unknown numbers that were plus nine two, that is the Pakistan dialling code, and sometimes I would answer them.

I wouldnt answer them all, and the caller would tell me they were from Mian Channu, where my grandfather came from, and they just wanted to say hello and they told me they had had a street party in my honour and that the mayor had been there and, apparently, the governor of the city came.

This is a small town and people were just phoning me constantly and I was having to speak to as many of them as I could. It was amazing, but its also just so disconnected to the way my life is now here.
In the last week, hundreds of thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets to demonstrate against government plans for judicial reform, the Associated Press reported. Protests began in March, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus far-right administration announced new proposals to remove power from Israels Supreme Court.

Netanyahu paused the overhaul following intense pressure as parliament took a monthlong recess. However, when the government reconvened last week, protests intensified, illustrating Israelis' mistrust in the countrys leadership. On Thursday, protesters blocked major roads in Tel Aviv and demonstrated outside the homes of the president and the national security minister, calling for equality. Several protesters were arrested over the week for causing disturbances. This past weekend, thousands took to the streets again, continuing protests for the 18th consecutive week.

Protesters in Tel Aviv take part in a demonstration on May 6 against the Israeli government's proposed judicial overhaul. (Ilan Rosenberg/Reuters)

Why it matters: Since January, there have been hundreds of demonstrations across Israel over ongoing political crises. In just four years, five elections have been held and lawmakers have been unable to form a stable government. Netanyahu, who led the nation for 12 years, was ousted in 2021 after a coalition of his rivals won a confidence vote in Israels parliament. In early 2022 he stood trial for corruption, but later that year he was sworn in as prime minister for his sixth term.

The calls for democracy by Israeli protesters have put a spotlight on the human rights violations faced by Palestinian civilians just miles away. For decades, Palestinians have protested against the occupational Israeli government and the deteriorating conditions they continue to face.

Here are four other international news stories you may have missed this week from Yahoo News partner network.

6 face death penalty in Libya over conversion to Christianity

Libyan flags are displayed during a demonstration in Tripoli calling for unity and democratic transition. (Gianluigi Guercia/AFP via Getty Images)

As reported by the Guardian on Wednesday, six people in Libya are facing execution after converting from Islam to Christianity. The group of men and women were arrested in March by Libyan security forces known as the Internal Security Agency (ISA), human rights activists said.

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Those arrested were charged under article 207 of the penal code, which outlaws any beliefs that alter fundamental constitutional principles, or the fundamental structures of the social order. The predominantly Muslim country also prohibits possession of any items, including books, that would promote non-Muslim values. The six arrests were made in a bid to stop an organized gang action aiming to solicit and to make people leave Islam, the ISA said in a statement. The families of those arrested discovered that their loved ones had been detained after videos of their confessions were published online by the ISA.

Seyfao Madi, an engineer and father of one, was featured in one confessional video claiming he had converted to Christianity in 2017 and had attempted to convert other Muslims. In 2016 my friend introduced me to other friends, among them a Christian from the U.S., he said in the video. We talked and discussed  then I converted the next year and he baptized me. According to his lawyer, Madi renounced his new religion after being tortured. A U.S. citizen was detained in April by the ISA, but that person was later released and has reportedly left Libya.

Families in DR Congo search for missing loved ones after floods

Congolese Red Cross volunteers and local residents wrap in blankets the bodies of people who died last week in heavy flooding in the Democratic Republic of Congo. (Glody Murhabazi/AFP via Getty Images)

The BBC reported on Sunday that more than 400 people have died in the Democratic Republic of Congo from floods and landslides that devastated two villages the week before. Thousands are believed to be missing.

People in the villages, located in the eastern part of the country, have begun digging through the mud in a desperate attempt to find loved ones. Since Thursday we've been finding bodies every minute and we are burying them, Thomas Bakenga, administrator of Kalehe territory, told France 24.

Why it matters: The flooding in the Democratic Republic of Congo is yet another example of how poorer countries in the global South suffer the immediate and catastrophic consequences of climate change. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said this was another illustration of accelerating climate change and its disastrous impact on countries that have done nothing to contribute to global warming.

Iran executes one person every 6 hours, says human rights group

The Eiffel Tower in January, with a banner in support for protests across Iran. (Michel Euler/AP)

A report published by Iran Human Rights (IHR), a nonprofit organization that monitors rights in the ultraconservative Islamic state, claimed that Iran has executed one person every six hours over the last 10 days, the Telegraph reported on Sunday. IHR said 42 people had been killed in just 10 days. More than 20 of those belonged to an ethnic minority group. The executions, according to the report, were linked to drug offenses, but only two of the 42 killed were officially announced by Iranian authorities.

Thailands election facing scrutiny over widespread complaints

Thailand will hold general elections on May 14. (Chalinee Thirasupa/Reuters)

A monitoring group in Thailand has criticized the countrys election commission after receiving 300 complaints, Reuters reported on Monday. The People's Network to Monitor Elections, a group of nongovernment organizations, said people had complained about missing names, mistakes on mailed ballots and incomplete lists of candidates at voting polls. The Election Commission of Thailand said it had received only 92 objections, but investigations were ongoing. The May 14 election could bring about the end of a nine-year-long military rule.
The political situation in Slovakia has become uncertain after its caretaker prime minister stepped down. Eduard Heger called on President Zuzana Caputova to revoke his mandate to lead the government.

Heger made the declarations in a statement, saying that the president had not accepted his proposals to solve the country's current political impasse. He was leading the country until fresh elections due at the end of September.

His resignation follows a string of ministerial resignations over the past week, potentially paving the way for a pro-Moscow party to take power.

Heger said "I promised you that I would try to lead Slovakia to democratic elections in a stable and peaceful manner. After the departure of the 2nd Minister within a few days on Friday, I decided not to wait and yesterday I offered President Zuzana Caputova alternatives that I see as more stable and less risky than appointing a caretaker government for the last few months of this election period."

The Agriculture Minister Samuel Vican resigned on Thursday after a case involving a 1.4 million subsidy to his company. Then the following day, Foreign Minister Rastislav Kacer said he was leaving.

The country's president has since appointed a top banker, Deputy Governor Ludovit Odor, to lead a technocrat government.

Slovakia will have a general election in September and polls suggest that voters are leaning towards the pro-Russia Smer-SD party, which is against sending military support to Ukraine.
Scots veteran honoured with headstone after 40 years in unmarked grave (Image: Serena Gear)

A Scottish veteran has been honoured with a memorial service and headstone almost 40 years after he was buried in an unmarked communal grave.

Piper James McLean served in the Far East with the Second Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders during the Second World War.

He was one of two pipers who marched the famous regiment over the JohorSingapore Causeway before it was blown up by retreating British forces in January 1942 to stall the Japanese advancement into Singapore.

Following his return to Scotland after the war, he relocated to Sussex and sadly passed away in obscurity at his home in 1984, before being buried in a communal grave in a local cemetery.

Piper McLeans final resting place was uncovered by his granddaughter after she began researching her family history following the death of his daughter in 2021. She petitioned the local council, MPs, and military associations to have a headstone placed on his grave.

READ MORE: Honour at last for Scots POW buried in unmarked grave nearly 40 years ago

A service at Snell Hatch Cemetery was attended by veterans from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, some of whom made a 900-mile round trip to be there including members of the regiments Grangemouth Branch.

They were joined by members of the Royal British Legion, veterans in Crawley, Henry Smith, MP for Crawley, the Mayor of Crawley, members from Crawley Borough Council and the First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the UK, alongside the family of Piper James McLean.

Additionally, two Standard Bearers, a Piper and a Bugler were also attendance at the service, which saw a military Padre bless the headstone.

The service was also led and followed by the piping of the same music played by Piper McLean as he and Piper Stewart crossed the Johore - Singapore Causeway.

Ms Serena Gear, Piper McLeans granddaughter, told The Herald the headstone would allow him to be laid to rest in a grave which recognised her grandfathers exceptional service and honour his extraordinary story.

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HeraldScotland: James McLean, known as John, front right, with his mates in the army

James McLean, known as John, front right, with his mates in the army (Image: Serena Gear)

She said: My daughter went with my brother and my niece and nephew. It was an extremely emotional day. I think what hit me was that before the service I was sent a photo of the piper stood behind the headstone.

"All I could see was my grandfather stood there. It was like looking at my grandfather in uniform by his headstone. That made me very tearful. The whole family are just beyond grateful. It was more than we ever expected the service to be.

I think we had 20-odd from Grangemouth that came down, as well as members of the London Argylls Regimental Association. The First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the UK also attended and he was so respectful.

"It must have been difficult for him to attend a service like this but everyone made him feel welcome. When he walked away from the headstone he stood and bowed, which was really lovely, and he laid some beautiful flowers as well. I was extremely shocked that he attended.

As well as the service in Crawley, Michael Hurst MBE, the Founder and Director of the Taiwan POW Camps Memorial Society, laid a wreath in honour of Piper McLean in Taiwan.

A wreath was also laid at Kranji War Cemetery in Singapore, the final resting place for Allied soldiers who perished during the Battle of Singapore and the subsequent Japanese occupation of the island from 1942 to 1945 and in other parts of Southeast Asia during World War II.

HeraldScotland: The wreath at Kranji War Cemetery in Singapore

The wreath at Kranji War Cemetery in Singapore (Image: Serena Gear)

Ms Gear added: We sent a wreath over to Kranji Cemetery, thats where a lot of Argylls are also buried. I wanted to have a wreath there obviously for my grandfathers time in Singapore but also to remember the other Argylls that lay there.

I was also recently contacted by Michael Hurst MBE, who runs the POW Camps Memorial Society in Taiwan. He told me that my grandfather was held in Taiwan for a short period of time and worked in the coal mines there, so my grandfathers name is inscribed in their memorial wall out there. On the same day of the service he placed a wreath for my grandfather as well.

Following the service, Ms Gear has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise 5,000 for the Grangemouth Branch of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders to give something back.

She added: They dont have any funding whatsoever and they donated money towards my grandfathers headstone. They also travelled down and gave so many gifts to my family, and I just wanted to be able to give something back to them and to be able to help their veterans in their area as well to say thank you for what they done. Because without their help this wouldnt have happened. It was Grangemouth Branch that were the standard bearers, the piper and everything.
Toyota suspends sales of Yaris model in Thailand after safety test problem A Toyota Logo is seen at a Toyota dealership in Zaventem

By Chayut Setboonsarng and Daniel Leussink

BANGKOK/TOKYO (Reuters) -Japanese carmaker Toyota Motor Corp has stopped sales and deliveries of its Yaris Ativ in Thailand, senior officials said on Monday, after its affiliate Daihatsu rigged part of the door in side-collision safety tests.

The problem may have occurred due to pressure on Daihatsu to shorten the development time of the Ativ, Masahiko Maeda, Toyota's CEO for the Asia region, said at a press conference in Bangkok. The vehicles customers were currently using were safe, he added.

Toyota was working with the Thai government to resume sales of the model, which has been produced in Toyota's Gateway plant in Chachoengsao province, and further investigation was underway.

"If development had been carried out under appropriate conditions, this kind of problem would of course not have happened," Maeda said.

"I think the fact that it still happened, means there was some kind of pressure at the development site," he said, adding that the vehicle's relatively large size may have posed a challenge to Daihatsu, which specialises in the production of small cars.

Toyota and Daihatsu disclosed last month they were investigating how part of the door in side-collision safety tests carried out for some 88,000 small cars had been changed for the purpose of side-on crash safety testing.

Daihatsu has said that some 76,000 of those vehicles were Yaris Ativs mainly bound for Thailand, Mexico and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Gulf Cooperation Council comprises Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda said he had visited the Gateway plant for the first time in a decade to assure workers, also saying he had come to the Southeast Asian nation because he loved it.

Toyoda has a personal attachment to Thailand, calling it his "home away from home" at an event to celebrate Toyota's 60th anniversary of operations in the country late last year.

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He has said that late Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej was the only global leader who expressed his confidence in the company after a string of massive recalls prompted U.S. investigations and forced him to testify before Congress in 2010.

Toyota President Koji Sato, who took over the top job from Toyoda on April 1, was not at the press conference.

For Daihatsu, which became a wholly owned Toyota subsidiary in 2016 when Toyoda was president, Southeast Asia is an important market, with production facilities in Indonesia and Malaysia.

(Reporting by Chayut Setboonsarng in Bangkok and Daniel Leussink in Tokyo; Editing by Martin Petty and Louise Heavens)
HCM CITY  The State Bank of Viet Nam (SBV) plans to seize four weak commercial banks in a move aimed at strengthening the country's banking system.

The poorly-performing banks are DongA Bank, Vietnam Construction Bank, Ocean Bank and Global Petro Bank, the SBV said in a report submitted to the National Assemblys Economic Committee at the end of April.

As outlined in the report, three of the banks - Vietnam Construction Bank, Ocean Bank and Global Petro Bank - would be sold by the SVB to stronger commercial banks, including Vietcombank, one of the country's largest commercial banks.

The move is part of SBVs efforts to improve the local banking system and address bad debts accumulated for the 2021-2025 period, according to the report.

Measures to manage a weak commercial bank placed under special control include finding partners to restructure it, rearranging its network of branches, and reducing operation costs to ensure stable operations, the SBV said.

As of the end of 2019, Ocean Bank accumulated a loss of more than VN17.9 trillion (US$763.2 million) and Vietnam Construction Bank more than VN31 trillion ($1.32 billion).

In addition, SBV said it was also restructuring Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank (SCB), which has been placed under SBVs special control since last October.

SCBs operations have become gradually stable and under control, according to SBV.

Earlier, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh asked SBV to carefully restructure SCB to ensure that the restructuring is transparent and prevents loss of assets.

Depositors rushed to SCB branches to withdraw their money last October following the arrest of Van Thinh Phat Groups chairwoman (who is believed to be the banks largest shareholder) for fear the arrest could affect the banks operations.

SCB, formed by a merger of three banks in 2012, is the biggest private bank by assets.

Many banks have been placed under special control over the years, but all have recovered and developed strongly later.

Non-performing loans

The bad debt ratio of the banking system has increased to 2.91 per cent of total outstanding loans as of the end of February, up from 2 per cent at the end of 2022 and 1.49 per cent at the end of 2021, according to a report by SBV.

Under SBVs guidelines and regulations, non-performing loans on the balance sheet of commercial banks are controlled below 3 per cent.

The potential bad debts of credit institutions is around 5 per cent, according to a SBV report.

Experts have also warned there is potential bad debt risk from the real estate credit portfolio as the sale of mortgaged real estate is difficult due to the slowdown of the market.

It would be also challenging to find investors with enough funding to buy back large amounts of debt, they said.

There remained problems in legal procedures in handling collateral assets such as real estate, they added.

In a related move, the central bank said in April that it would restructure loans for firms facing challenges, including delaying loan repayments by up to 12 months as part of efforts to speed up the slowing economy.  VNS
HA NOI  Nearly 85 per cent of FDI enterprises are still using outdated technology, which is a challenge for the Vietnamese economy in its efforts to realise the goal of net zero emissions by 2050, according to a report on vov.vn.

The foreign direct investment (FDI) sector is recognised as an economic sector capable of using the most modern technology and machinery in Viet Nam today, according to experts.

Green growth, sustainable development is an indispensable requirement and a common global trend. The Vietnamese Government has made very strong commitments at COP26, affirming Viet Nam's desire to achieve economic prosperity, environmental sustainability and social justice.

With thousands of projects spread across provinces and cities in the country, the foreign direct investment (FDI) sector is increasingly asserting its important role in the Vietnamese economy. In particular, many investors with green and sustainable projects have been choosing Viet Nam to develop, such as Lego and Nestle.

This is proof that FDI enterprises have been making important contributions to the sustainable development of Viet Nam, said Nguyen Anh Tuan, Deputy Director of the Foreign Investment Department of the Ministry of Planning and Investment.

"So far, according to our calculations, the business sector including FDI enterprises and domestic enterprises has invested about US$9 billion in fields related to green growth, green development such as renewable energy, or investment in equipment for the green economy. This figure accounts for about 2 per cent of GDP and average growth of this investment during the past 2 years is quite high, at 10-13 per cent, which is a very good sign, Tuan said.

Achieving the goal of green growth requires mobilising the strength of the whole political system, especially the business community, including FDI enterprises. FDI enterprises have helped create a change in awareness of the business community, create resources and experience for management, provide modern technology and equipment to realise green growth goals in manufacturing in Viet Nam, Tuan said.

Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice Chairman of the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chairman of the Business Council for Sustainable Development of Viet Nam, said that businesses must be more creative and innovative in production and business.

"I had the opportunity to visit Nestle, they are co-operating with farmers through regenerative agricultural projects. Or Samsung, they also work with about 300 suppliers in Viet Nam. Large foreign investors can spread messages about green growth to the Vietnamese business community, he said.

According to statistics of the Business Council for Sustainable Development, each year the circular economy generates about $4-5 trillion and creates a lot of new jobs through new business models.

The Government continues to have action programmes to stabilise the macro-economy, reforming administrative procedures, creating a foundation for the business community. The business community must actively innovate and take advantage of the incentives in Viet Nam's development policy, according to Vinh.  VNS
HA NOI  The VN-Index posted the highest gain in a month with a strong influx of cash flow on Monday which drove stock prices higher.

On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange, the VN-Index closed 1.26 per cent up at 1,053.44 points, the highest since April 3.

Liquidity increased in both volume and value, reaching 655.5 million shares worth VN10.8 trillion (US$458 million), up respectively 20 per cent and 16 per cent over Fridays levels.

According to market analysts, the liquidity level though did not change substantially but maintaining the threshold of above VN10 trillion compared to the average of VN8-9 trillion two weeks ago was quite positive.

The green dominated the market from the opening minutes and spread to most industry groups. According to data on vietstock.vn, 19 out of 25 stock groups tracked by this website gained value and six lost value.

Securities, banking, other financial services, mining and oil, agriculture, plastics, food and drink, household and utilities all achieved an average growth of more than 1 per cent.

Among the VN30 (which tracks the top 30 shares by market value and liquidity), 26 climbed, two declined and two closed flat. Nine of the top 10 stocks contributing most to the VN-Index were from this group, including Vietcombank (VCB), BIDV (BID), Vinamilk (VNM), Vietnam Rubber Group (GVR), Techcombank (TCB), PV Gas (GAS), Vinhomes (VHM), Masan Group (MSN) and Sacombank (STB).

VCB, which saw a gain of 3.6 per cent and contributed 3.8 points to the VN-Index. BID followed with a gain of 2.9 per cent contributing 1.6 points, while VNM gained 2.3 per cent and contributed 0.8 points.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange, the HNX-Index increased by 1.5 per cent to end the session at 210.92 points.

Liquidity also grew here with nearly 114 million shares worth VN1.4 trillion being traded, up 54 per cent in volume and 42 per cent in value compared to Fridays figures.

Despite the market gain, analysts at Viet Dragon Securities still cautioned when the VN-Index attempted to regain the green colour and back above 1,040 points, selling force continued to put pressure on the general market's recovery.

Foreign investors remained net sellers on the HCM Citys bourse but their net sell value decreased to just VN13 billion from Fridays level of VN176 billion. However, they remained net buyers in Ha Nois market with another net value of VN760 million.  VNS
Compiled by Pham Hoang Anh

HA NOI - The recent electricity retail hike of 3 per cent will likely have a small effect on the country's CPI in the short run, according to the Ministry of Finance.

The impact on the cost of production for industries that use a lot of electricity such as steel, cement and paper may increase by 0.18 per cent, 0.45 per cent and 0.4 per cent, respectively, said the ministry.

According to EVN, the group supplied electricity to more than 528,000 service providers across the country. On average, each paid around VN5.3 million per month. After the price hike, each is expected to pay an additional VN141,000 monthly.

Likewise, more than 1.8 million goods producers, whose average electricity cost was VN10.6 million, are expected to pay an additional VN307,000 monthly.

On the other hand, according to stock company Mirae Asset, electricity accounts for about 3.5 per cent of the total basket of CPI calculation. Therefore, if electricity increases by 3 per cent, it directly increases CPI by 0.105 per cent, while if it increases by 5 per cent, CPI will increase by 0.175 per cent.

In the short term, a small price hike will not likely have a large impact on major industries as electricity producers often signed long-term contracts with Vietnam Electricity (EVN), with some as long as 25 years.

Distributors also benefit, in general, from price hikes as they can now sell electricity at a higher price than long-term contracts, which were negotiated at lower price points.

According to Mirae Asset, electricity costs account for about 9-10 per cent of the cost of goods sold in steel and chemical production, 14-15 per cent in cement production, except for producers with rotary kilns where electricity costs account for about 9-10 per cent, and 4-5 per cent for paper production.

In the worst-case scenario for producers in which they cannot raise their prices, their profit before tax will decrease by as much as 15 per cent for steel, 13 per cent for cement, 2 per cent for paper and 1 per cent for chemical producers.

However, it's likely producers will raise their prices to lessen the impact on their bottom lines. In that case, consumers will bear part of the increased input cost.

In the long term, a more flexible pricing system will allow greater competition and a more balanced supply and demand relationship in the market.

Nguyen Tien Thoa, president of the Vietnam Valuation Association, said considering how much input cost for electricity production increased by 9.27 per cent from 2021 to 2022, a 3 per cent price hike could be viewed as moderate, and could not make up for the rise in input cost.

Thoa said it was in the public's interest to see electricity price increase gradually, within a determined timeline, to ensure socio-economic stability and the rights and interests of both businesses and consumers.

He said the decision to raise the price right before summer might have a small to moderate impact on consumer's bills, especially for households that consume a lot of electricity. Consumers typically consume twice as much electricity during the summer months, largely due to the constant use of air conditioners.

However, the ideal solution would be to have households economise the use of electricity, which is in line with the government's recommendation to conserve energy and reduce CO2 emissions.

Thoa said a 3 per cent price hike in electricity might result in as much as a 1.099 per cent rise in CPI in the short term and a 1.28 per cent rise in the long term.

However, it also depended on the market's tolerance to increased commodity prices, the effectiveness of the government's price stabilisation efforts and cost-cutting measures taken by goods and services producers.

He stressed the importance for the central government to publicise regularly all information related to electricity prices in a timely manner to prevent businesses from taking advantage of the situation to raise their prices disproportionately.

According to Nguyen Manh Hung, chairman of the Vietnam Consumer Protection Association, electricity is considered a special commodity in the sense that it's often most beneficial to maintain a balance between production and consumption at all times as it's nearly impossible to store electricity at a low cost.

Demand for electricity has been on the rise in recent decades in Viet Nam, and will likely continue in the future. Meanwhile, the resources to keep producing electricity are not unlimited. Therefore, according to Hung, it's a key priority for the government to direct industries and general consumers to conserve and economise the use of electricity.

"While Viet Nam's per capita electricity demand is still low compared to developed countries it has increased every year during the last several decades," he said.

He added that ensuring a stable electricity supply for the country's economy and people would likely be a growing challenge in the near future.

The emphasis should be on industrial sectors as they consume from 80 per cent to 85 per cent of the national output, with household usage accounting for the rest. VNS
JAKARTA  Since joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1995, Viet Nam has made important, productive and positive contributions, stated ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn.

In an interview granted to Vietnam News Agency (VNA)s correspondents in Jakarta ahead of the 42nd ASEAN Summit, the ASEAN Secretary-General said that he has learned about Viet Nams fast transformation and outstanding development achievements in recent years.

With about 100 million people, ranking third among ASEAN member countries in population, Viet Nam has strong economic potential with high investment attraction and fast social development, he said, adding that the S-shape country is one of the ASEAN members that draw great attention in investment, tourism and trade.

I think Viet Nam has been playing a very important role, I mean, a major contributor to ASEAN, he stated.

Regarding key issues to be discussed at the 42nd ASEAN Summit, which will take place from May 9-11 in Indonesia with the participation of 11 countries, Kao Kim Hourn said that the event will focus on intra-bloc issues, including the ASEAN Community building, regional integration and priorities of the ASEAN Chair in 2023. ASEAN leaders will meet the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Community Post-2025 Vision (HLTF-ACV) and give their ideas on the building of a strategic vision towards 2045.

Along with the agenda on economy, digital economy, climate change response and regional and international issues of shared concern, participants will discuss the promotion of the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) in four major aspects of maritime cooperation, connectivity, sustainable development goals, economy and other fields.

Regarding the ASEAN 2023 theme ASEAN Matters: Epicentre of Growth," Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn stressed that ASEAN remains an important player both regionally and globally. That's why the association continues to attract a lot of interest from external partners, some of which want to upgrade their partnership with the ASEAN and join ASEAN led mechanisms, he said.

He held that amid the global economic uncertainties, it is important that ASEAN continues to work together to ensure that the association remains attractive to investors from outside the region and dialogue partners. At the same time, it is necessary for the grouping to make sure that the region remain peaceful, stable and secure to draw investors and tourists, he added.

The ASEAN leader said that Timor Leste, which is in the process to become the 11th member of ASEAN, will also attend the summit. He affirmed that ASEAN will assist Timor Leste in terms of capacity building so that the country can be well prepared to take advantage of being a full member of ASEAN, in the very near future.

Mentioning the building of an effective Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC), Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn reiterated that during a retreat in early February, ASEAN Foreign Ministers agreed to speed up negotiations for the deal. Indonesia, as the ASEAN Chair in 2023, hopes to expedite the negotiations of the COC, building on the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in the past 21 years.

He went on to say that to ensure an effective COC, it is necessary to rely on the member states that will be directly taking part in the negotiation between ASEAN and China.

He said: Certainly, of course, what constitutes effective would be something that COC would be meaningful, substantial, that would be able to agree upon by the party states that participate in the negotiations of the COC."

"And that's why the negotiation process is very important. Not only just the outcome, but also the negotiation process, where to focus on the process right now, to make sure that the interests and the needs of the different countries, the different parties states to the COC will have to be sorted out.

ASEAN's economic priorities

Viet Nam has made positive contributions to materialising economic priorities of ASEAN in 2023, Chairman of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council 2023 (ASEAN-BAC) Arsjad Rasjid said in a recent media interview ahead of the 42nd ASEAN Summit.

He said that Viet Nam has been an important player in promoting trade and investment within the region and beyond, as the country has actively participated in initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area and recently expressed interest in joining the cross-border payment connectivity network, which is a positive development for the region's economic integration.

According to him, Viet Nam's upcoming hosting of the ASEAN Wind Energy 2023 event is a significant contribution to the region's renewable energy goals.

He cited the International Renewable Energy Agency as saying that Southeast Asia has a cumulative installed wind capacity of 8.5GW at the end of 2020, and the projected capacity is 35GW by 2030 if current policies and targets are achieved. Viet Nam is the largest wind market in the region, with a generation capacity of 13.9GW planned for 2025.

Overall, I think that Viet Nam's contributions have been significant in moving forward the economic agenda of ASEAN, and their commitment in various initiatives demonstrate their willingness to work towards a more integrated and prosperous region, stated Arsjad Rasjid.

The ASEAN-BAC has identified five priority economic issues that need to be addressed this year, namely digital transformation, sustainable development, health recovery, food security, and trade and investment. To advance these priorities, ASEAN-BAC has developed eight legacy projects towards an integrated, connected and sustainable economic region, Arsjad Rasjid said, adding that these projects are the ASEAN QR Code, Marketplace Lending Platform, Wiki Entrepreneur, ASEAN Net Zero Hub, Carbon Center of Excellence, ASEAN One Shot Campaign, Inclusive Closed-Loop Model for Agricultural Products, and the ASEAN Business Entity.

These priority initiatives of the ASEAN-BAC have received support from all ASEAN economic ministers and made progress, he said.  VNS
HA NOI  The number of Vietnamese workers registered to work in South Korea has reached more than 23,400, nearly double the agreed recruitment target between Viet Nam and South Korea, the Centre for Overseas Labour under the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs announced.

The centre, in collaboration with the Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs of cities and provinces, planned to select around 12,000 Vietnamese people to work in South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS) this year.

As of now, the number of registered workers has reached 23,412. Of that number, 19,228 have registered in the field of manufacturing, 343 in the field of construction, 1,283 in the field of agriculture, and 2,558 in the field of fisheries.

Workers have to take a Korean language proficiency test and a skill test. The Korean language proficiency test will be taken on a computer and will consist of two sections: listening comprehension and reading comprehension.

The test has a total of 40 multiple-choice questions, and the time limit is 50 minutes. The minimum passing score for the first round is 110 for the manufacturing industry, 80 for the construction and agricultural industries, and 60 for the fisheries industry. The maximum score is 200.

The number of candidates who meet the Korean proficiency requirements will be selected to take the skills test and will be evaluated based on the number of positions available in each industry, with 110 per cent of the recruitment target for each industry being allocated based on the criteria of highest to lowest scores.

To prevent cheating during the test, the centre will closely monitor the workers' identification documents, including their test registration cards and personal identification papers. Suspected cases of cheating will be checked by comparing their identifying features and fingerprint records on their ID cards, and their registration information will also be verified.

The centre will also use integrated data synthesis software and fingerprint scanners, which will capture photos and fingerprints of the workers. The fingerprint records will be stored in a database and used to verify the workers' identity at skill testing, orientation training, and departure.

Workers who fail to pass the identity verification procedures will be denied further processing, and those caught cheating will be disqualified from the programme, according to the centre.

The software will also issue a warning when it detects the same person attempting to register for the exam multiple times. Any worker found to have improper behaviour will be documented and stopped from participating in the programme for four years.

According to the EPS program signed between MoLISA and the South Korean Ministry of Employment and Labour, 12,000 Vietnamese workers will be employed in the fields of manufacturing (6,344 workers), construction (901), agriculture (841), and fisheries (4,035).

Vietnamese workers participating in this years EPS programme must meet requirements such as having no criminal record according to Vietnamese law and having never been deported from South Korea.

For those who have resided in South Korea on work visas of non-professional employment (E9) or vessel crew (E10), the duration of residence must be less than five years.

Workers who have previously worked in South Korea under the EPS programme must return to Viet Nam upon the expiration of their contracts.

Figures from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs showed that up to now, Viet Nam has sent over 110,000 workers to South Korea under the EPS programme, with an average income of US$1,800 per month.

On March 10, the ministry announced the EPS programme with South Korea would be temporarily suspended for eight districts, towns and cities due to the high rate of workers who did not return to Viet Nam upon the expiration of their contracts.

The districts are Nghi Xuan and Cam Xuyen Districts of Ha Tinh Province; Chi Linh City of Hai Duong Province; Cua Lo Town, Nghi Loc and Hung Nguyen Districts of Nghe An Province; ong Son and Hoang Hoa Districts of Thanh Hoa Province.

These localities were reported to have more than 70 illegal workers residing in South Korea, and over 27 per cent of the labourers who did not return to Viet Nam upon the expiration of their contracts.  VNS
HCM CITY  The Ministry of Transport has proposed projects to upgrade and improve three national highways, 53, 62 and 91B, in Cuu Long (Mekong Delta) provinces.

The total investment cost of the above projects will be VN7.1 trillion (US$304.3 million)

The project of upgrading National Highway 53 includes upgrading a section passing through Long Ho  Ba Si in Vinh Long and Tra Vinh provinces with a length of 46 kilometres and constructing a 23-kilometre bypass in Vung Liem District, Vinh Long Province. The project will cost over VN1.8 trillion, of which the reciprocal capital is VN580 billion.

A project to improve 77 kilometres of National Highway 62 and build an 8-kilometre bypass through the town of Tan Thanh, Tan Thanh District, Long An Province, will cost an estimated VN2.2 trillion, including a loan of VN1.5 trillion and reciprocal capital of VN705 billion.

For the 142-kilometre National Highway 91B south of the Hau River, the total investment capital will be VN1.5 trillion, of which over VN1.3 trillion will be sourced from borrowing.

The above projects are expected to shorten travel times, meet transportation demand, ensure traffic safety, complete the regional road systems and help respond to climate change in the Mekong Delta.

In addition, 16 projects worth VN94.3 trillion (US$4 million) are proposed to boost traffic connections and prevent erosion and drought in the Mekong Delta.

Among those projects are a coastal road running 415 kilometres through seven provinces at a cost of VN43 trillion and the second phase of an embankment project worth VN4.1 trillion in Vinh Long.

The remaining projects include building new roads and canals or upgrading existing ones in the region.

The Mekong Delta, covering 40,000 square kilometres (four million hectares), or 13 per cent of the nations total area, is home to 17.5 million people, or 18 per cent of the nations population.

For generations, the delta, which has 1.5 million hectares of land cultivating rice, has been the rice bowl of the nation.

The region accounts for half of the nations rice production, 95 per cent of rice exports, 65 per cent of aquaculture production, and 70 per cent of fruit output.  VNS
HA NOI  The National Standardisation Strategy for 2030 has set a target of raising Viet Nams harmonisation ratio with international, regional and foreign standards to at least 65 per cent by 2025 and 75 per cent by 2030.

As Viet Nam is integrating into the global economy, and is a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, as well as new-generation free trade agreements, the country has to observe stringent regulations and requirements on technical standards in foreign markets.

In fact, Vietnamese goods draw warnings from foreign countries repeatedly due to their failure in satisfying technical standards and barriers set by importers.

The Viet Nam Sanitary and Phytosanitary Notification Authority and Enquiry Point (SPS Viet Nam) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reported that last year it received nearly 1,000 notices relating to food safety and animal and plant quarantine. The complaints are up 10 per cent year-on-year, mostly from Japan with 83 notices, followed by Brazil, the EU, Canada, and the US.

To handle this issue, Viet Nam must raise its standards harmonisation ratio toward international acceptance.

According to the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality, Viet Nams current national standards system, with over 13,500 standards in most economic sectors, has a harmonisation ratio of over 60 per cent with regional and international standards.

Despite a remarkable number of national standards, Viet Nams Global Quality Infrastructure Index scored only 54, behind many countries such as China, Japan, the Republic of Korea (RoK), India, Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Currently, its national standards are built and managed by 13 ministries. However, the process has shown a lack of long-term orientations and consistency among them.

The SPS suggested Viet Nam raise its harmonisation ratio with international standards to respond to trade barriers imposed by other member countries of the FTAs and reduce violations.

To meet the Governments target by 2030, Viet Nam needs to quickly build and issue the standardisation strategy, striving to become a member of the International Organization for Standardisation, and the International Electrotechnical Commission in 2025.

The country also needs to complete building a database for the national standardisation system and complete the digital infrastructure connected with ministries, agencies and localities.  VNS
Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung (centre) cuts the ribbon to open the Viet Nam stall at the fair.  VNA/VNS Photo

Vietnamese farm produce being displayed includes dragon fruit, pomelo, mangosteen, mango, and pineapple, along with various types of tea, coffee, dried fruits, processed foods, and spices.

According to Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung Viet Nam is the world's eighth largest exporter of fruits, accounting for 3.8 per cent of the total fruit exports. Compared to all other Asian countries with similar agricultural strengths, only Viet Nam has a free trade agreement with the European Union (EU), providing a significant advantage if Viet Nam and Italy cooperate and combine their strengths in agricultural production and trade not only in Italy but also in the region and the world.

Viet Nam is not only an important supplier of agricultural products but also a large market with great potential as it has nearly 100 million domestic consumers. The rapid increase of the middle class after decades of high economic growth has led to a growing demand for premium Made-in-Italy products in Viet Nam.

This is the third time Viet Nam has directly introduced signature fruits and spices to Italian businesses and people, in the context of European and Italian consumers showing their growing interest in consuming tropical fruits, especially those that are good for health and have new flavours.

Macfrut is one of the largest annual international trade fairs in Europe for professionals, with about 1,000 booths from over 90 countries, including more than 500 purchasing companies and around 32,500 visitors.

Each year, Europe imports farm produce worth over US$160 billion, and Vietnamese farm produce has become high-value export items that raked in $3.34 billion in 2022. In Italy, fruit is a strategic sector of the agricultural industry, with export earnings of $5.6 billion last year, ranking third in Europe and 10th in the world. The fair provides an excellent platform for Vietnamese businesses to establish relationships with Italian importers and explore new opportunities in the European market.

Bizhub
Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha (right) on Friday had talks with Wang Chuanfu, Chairman of Chinas BYD Co. Ltd.,  VNA/VNS Photo

With the selection of Viet Nam's northern province of Phu Tho for its investment, the Deputy PM believed that the BYD Co. Ltd. would reap success.

Committing all possible support for the company, he hoped that its idea of cooperation to shift from electronics to automobile production would go smoothly, and BYD would create competitive products in international markets, targeting those with high standards. On the back of Viet Nam's advantages within the framework of new-generation free trade agreements, he wished that the company would contribute to driving the development of supporting industries in Viet Nam.

Wang, for his part, spoke highly of Viet Nam's business environment, especially in Phu Tho Province where the company plans to invest in a factory specialising in tablet computer production. BYD vowed to keep renewing its technology for sustainable development in the future, he said.

As BYD would expand investment into electric automobile production and assembly with the best technology to supply the Vietnamese market and export to the Southeast Asian region, he wished for favourable conditions to complete investment procedures and quickly put the electric car production and assembling project into operation. Along with that, BYD would establish a chain of supporting industrial enterprises for the electric car project, he added.

On the same day, while receiving Honna Hitoshi, President and Representative Director of Japans Erex Co. Ltd., the Deputy PM hailed Erexs decision to invest in biomass power in Viet Nam, noting that biomass power had been included in Power Development Plan VIII as a fundamental renewable energy source for various projects.

He suggested Erex engage in treating solid waste and by-products in agriculture and forestry, and promoting environmental protection, afforestation and environmental treatment.

Hitoshi said Viet Nam held great potential to develop biomass power thanks to a large amount of unused agricultural and forestry by-products. In addition, biomass power would also contribute to reducing emissions from coal-fired power plants with co-firing options, he said.

In the coming time, Erex would fully consider suggestions by the Deputy PM to launch projects on biomass fuel and building biomass power plants in Viet Nam, he said.

Bizhub
As of March 31, 2023, there were 52 foreign bank branches operating in Vietnam. Following the approval of their capital increase request by the SBV, KBank's Ho Chi Minh City branch is now poised to join the ranks of the top three foreign bank branches with the highest charter capital in the country.

As one of the top three largest banks in Thailand with total assets worth $123 billion at the end of 2022, KBank is now setting its sights on conquering the Vietnamese market. After only a year of operation, the bank has announced this significant capital injection to enhance its transaction ecosystem and bolster its competitiveness, with the ultimate goal of becoming a digital leader in the region. The bank has set an ambitious target to rank among the top 20 banks in Vietnam in terms of total assets by 2027.

Chat Luangarpa, KBank Executive Vice President, said, "KBank is proud to announce the decision to increase its charter capital by 2.5 times as a testament to our unwavering commitment to drive Vietnam's economic growth. This strategic decision will empower us to better assist business and retail customers, particularly in the midst of a volatile economic climate where the need for capital solutions has never been greater."

"This infusion of funding will provide the necessary impetus for our cutting-edge IT platform in Vietnam, which has been a key enabler in driving our digital leadership," Luangarpa added.

Building on its digital banking leadership, KBank remains committed to providing accessible and convenient digital banking services for Vietnamese consumers, anytime, anywhere.

Capital increase has remained the paramount focus of banks operating in Vietnam in recent years, given the escalating industry requirements concerning operational safety. A plentiful capital reserve not only substantiates a bank's financial capabilities and enables the realisation of medium and long-term business goals, but it also ensures compliance with the capital adequacy ratio stipulated by regulatory bodies, thereby supporting the achievement of annual growth targets.

Since entering the Vietnamese market, KBank has identified household businesses along with small and medium enterprises as significant contributors to the economy, accounting for over 97 per cent of the country's business structure.

However, these entities often face difficulties in meeting the stringent collateral requirements of domestic banks. By increasing its charter capital, KBank intends to conduct extensive research and expand its services to this target group, providing opportunities for them to expand their businesses on a larger scale in the future.

As part of its growth strategy, KBank is committed to advancing its digital payment and loan products in Vietnam, aligned with the government's push for cashless transactions. With its proven expertise in digital banking, KBank's 'K PLUS Vietnam' application offers Vietnamese customers a range of user-friendly loan products, including the 'KBank Biz Loan'.

KBank aims to have outstanding loans of $960 million in 2023, streamlining the capital rotation process for businesses and accelerating economic growth in the country.

vir
HCMC  Renewable energy companies in the country have recently proposed the Government remove regulatory bottlenecks faced by their solar and wind power projects, reported the local media.

Around 23 solar and wind power project developers  including VPL Energy Joint Stock Company, Tien Giang Wind Power Joint Stock Company, Cho Long Wind Power Joint Stock Company and Sunpro  Ben Tre No. 8 Wind Farm Company Limited  have written to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha seeking their help in negotiating power prices with the Electric Power Trading Company (EPTC), a subsidiary of Vietnam Electricity Group (EVN).

According to them, investors have filed the documents required for electricity pricing negotiations with the EVN-EPTC but the talks have made little progress due to a lack of legal documents detailing electricity pricing negotiations.

To prevent the wastage of resources resulting from a prolonged negotiation process and soon put into service the wind and solar power projects eligible for power generation, these investors proposed the prime minister direct the Ministry of Industry and Trade to issue guidelines for the negotiations between EVN and the investors.

The investors also proposed using one of three options during the provisional mobilization of electricity from their projects.

Firstly, EVN pays the investors an amount equal to 90% of the ceiling price of the electricity price framework pursuant to Decision 21 until the relevant parties mutually reach an agreement on electricity prices without a retroactive effect. This means the agreed-upon prices would be applied from the date of mutual agreement by the two parties, rather than from the commencement date of the provisional mobilization of electricity.

Secondly, EVN pays the investors an amount equal to 50% of the ceiling price of the electricity price framework pursuant to Decision 21 until the relevant parties mutually reach an agreement on the electricity prices, with a retroactive effect. This means the agreed-upon prices would be applied from the commencement date of the provisional mobilization of electricity.

Thirdly, if the price for temporary mobilization accounts for half of the ceiling price of the electricity price framework pursuant to Decision 21, the provisional period would not be included in the 20-year contract term officially agreed between EVN and the investors.
Indonesian Deputy for the coordination of international economic cooperation at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, Edi Prio Pambudi, during the 22nd AECC meeting in Jakarta on May 6, 2023. (Photo source: antaranews.com)

Jakarta  The 22nd meeting of the ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC) discussed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)' role in responding to geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics.

The meeting held in Jakarta on May 67 is part of the side events leading up to the 42nd ASEAN Summit. The ASEAN Summit will be held in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, on May 911.

Indonesian Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Edi Prio Pambudi has said the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and ASEAN's role in responding to geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics was put on the table at the meeting.

Pambudi, who was serving as the leader of senior economic officials at the meeting, emphasised the ASEAN's centrality as the region is attracting a lot of attention, and ASEAN will surely respond to the current global economic situation.

According to Pambudi, issues related to the development of the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in ASEAN were discussed in the meeting. Delegates also prepared a statement on EV ecosystem development.

Pambudi acknowledged that Indonesia has the potential to build the EV ecosystem because it has the raw materials for batteries, adding it must be supported by infrastructure, such as electric vehicle charging stations (SPKLU).

Upgrades to ASEAN-Korea agreement in the works ASEAN and South Korea will renew one of their bilateral free trade agreements and implement other deals to reinforce the latters investment flows into the former, with Vietnam considered a key production base.
A few weeks ago, Vietnam Ibe Laser Technology Co., Ltd. was expected to take its $15 million factory into operation after three years of construction.

Located in Thuan Thanh II Industrial Park in northern Bac Ninh province, the factory is to manufacture printed circuit board cameras and telescopes, with an annual capacity of nearly 400,000 products. However, visa snags have harmed its progress.

Business visa procedure frustration rumbles on, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

Vietnam is a great country for investment thanks to support from local authorities, said marketing director Liu Xin. However, the authorities need to simplify the procedures for getting a business visa. Our Chinese colleagues on the board applied for a visa three months ago, but could not come until a few days ago. But their visa will expire in the next week. I dont understand why Vietnam cannot extend their visa in this case, as they have a company here and a good explanation.

The complications in getting a business visa is a common problem for enterprises such as Taiwan-invested Ibe Laser, and especially those from the US and EU. In late April, many members of European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and the American counterpart (AmCham) sent proposals to the government on the issue.

According to both chambers, the Immigration Department (ID) under the Ministry of Public Security (MoPS) requires complicated documents. For example, it asks for the tax report of the company which guarantees the applicant. This requirement causes difficulty for both the company and the applicant to prepare documents.

It also takes time to get serial numbers and apply at the ID itself. If the dossier does not match with the departments requirements, the applicant will have to re-submit other dossiers. Authorities also require an employee of the Vietnam-based office to sign immigration documents, which is deemed an unsuitable approach for multinational companies residing abroad.

The Human Resources Working Group of the Vietnam Business Forum reported that foreigners are only allowed to receive business visas at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate of the host country. Therefore, before entering Vietnam, the applicant must ask the business or individual inviting the guarantee to complete the procedures for applying for an entry letter at the Immigration Department.

During the process there are many problems. For example, many companies succeed in applying for business visas and are approved by the ID, with the visa recipient being Vietnamese embassies abroad. The problem is that the visa approval letter is faxed to the embassy for confirmation but then refused without any explanation, said AmCham and EuroCham in a proposal to the prime minister.

The procedures to get a business visa have become more complicated, causing barriers for business operations. Besides this, investors have to be careful with their expansion plans when they are not sure about the process to enter the country.

Nguyen Dinh Nam, CEO of IPA Vietnam, told VIR that extending the business visa was a simple solution to foster foreign-invested capital. Many people want to come to Vietnam to look for investment opportunities. They want to stay in Vietnam long enough to study the investment environment and carry out field surveys in many destinations on their business trips, even at industrial parks in the three key regions. But right now they cant do that because the visa term is so short, Nam said.

The business chambers have proposed the MoPS and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to simplify the procedures to get a visa. The business community also expects the ID to issue longer business visas and allow the extension of business visas at least once when work permits are being.
At the signing ceremony (Photo: VNA)

Da Nang - School students from central Da Nang city will join a cultural exchange programme in Uiwang City, Gyeonggi, the Republic of Korea in October following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation and friendship signed between the citys Hai Chau district and Uiwang City in last week.

Chairman of Hai Chau District Le Thu Gia Thanh said the first group of secondary school students from the city will take part in a cultural festival and friendship exchange to be held in Uiwang City this October.

Thanh said the district had signed a MoU on cooperation in culture and friendship from 2021, but the cultural exchange programme had been suspended by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the cultural programme will form part of a series of cooperation events between the two cities and people of the two countries in the coming time.

Also on the RoK trip, the Da Nang-based Dong A University and Kaywon University of Art & Design agreed on educational co-operation consisting of an exchange programme among students and lecturers of the two universities in 2024.

The two universities will boost fashion design, a garment industry internship programme, digital marketing, multi-media communications and information technology.

Kaywon University of Art & Design is the sixth university from the RoK to sign a cooperation agreement with Dong A University in education and high-quality human resources training.

Da Nang also plans to build tour links between Jeju Island, Incheon, Seoul and other localities, including UNESCO-recognised world heritages Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Hue Monuments Complex, Hoi An ancient town and My Son Sanctuary in central Vietnam.

In the past year, Da Nang and Gyeongsan city of the RoK also signed an MoU for the cosmetic industry and tourism development.

The city will host the Vietnam-RoK culture exchange festival at Bien Dong (East Sea) Park this September.

HanaTour company of the RoK and the citys tourism promotion centre hosted an Instagram photo contest, Da Nang in My Heart, for Koreans living in Vietnam and abroad last year.

Tourists from the RoK account for 55.4% of international tourists in Da Nang with 1.8 million in 2019.

The Consulate General of the RoK in Da Nang also organised the K-Food Festival event for Vietnamese teams in Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang.

Tourism promotion between Vietnam's central region and cities of the RoK was also organised by the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) in Vietnam in recent years.

Korea airlines including Asiana Airlines, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Air Busan, Air Seoul and Tway Air have been resuming their air service from Busan, Seoul, Deagu and Cheong Ju to Da Nang from last year.

Vietnam Airlines resumes direct flights between Da Nang and Japan"s Narita A ceremony to welcome the first direct flight from Narita airport in Tokyo (Japan) to Da Nang after a long suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic was held by the national carrier Vietnam Airlines in the central beach city on March 26.

Lao Airlines resumes direct flights to Da Nang city The central city of Da Nang on March 30 welcomed 150 tourists from Vientiane, Laos, on the first direct flight of Lao Airlines after a two-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dung Quat Oil Refinery to increase capacity to 171,000 barrels per day

The expansion, invested by Binh Son Refinery and Petrochemical JSC (BSR), will increase the capacity of the refinery to 171,000 barrels per day from the existing 148,000 barrels.

The total investment to upgrade the refinery is VND31.23 trillion ($1.25 billion), 40 per cent of which is BSRs equity of $503 million, and 60 per cent comes from loans.

The products will meet EURO V standard, the Vietnamese government's requirements on environmental standards, along with domestic demands on petrochemical refineries, simultaneously contributing to promoting the socioeconomic growth of the country in general and the central region.

To upgrade the refinery, PetroVietnam proposed the prime minister allow the corporate income tax mechanism for BSR to be similar to the mechanism applied for the upgraded facility.

Once completed, the new facility will be under a corporate income tax rate of 10 per cent within 30 years. However, for the first four years the tax is zero, and in the following nine years it will be 5 per cent.

The schedule to implement the engineering, procurement, and construction contract is 37 months and the new facility is expected to go into operation in the first quarter of 2028.

The investor started preparation for the refinerys operation some years ago. In August 2015, BSR signed a contract with UK-based Amec Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd. to outline a master design for the Dung Quat Oil Refinery expansion project.

The Dung Quat Oil Refinery, which began operations in May 2010, was designed to process 6.5 million tonnes of crude oil per year from the Bach Ho oil field.

Binh Son Refinery reports $130 million in profit in first half Binh Son Refinery and Petrochemical JSC (BSR), a wholly-owned subsidiary of PetroVietnam, acquired VND3 trillion ($130.43 million) in profit in the first six months of 2021 thanks to the soaring price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil.

Dung Quat Refinery exceeds design capacity to meet demand Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical JSC (BSR) is operating Dung Quat Oil Refinery at 109 per cent of the refinerys design capacity to offset the lack of petroleum and oil in the market.
What do you believe are some of the more specific challenges facing both investors and the Vietnamese government in infrastructure investment?

Edward Clayton, partner and leader of Capital Projects and Infrastructure at PwC Vietnam and Malaysia

Over the past few years, the development of infrastructure in Vietnam has been progressing rapidly, resulting in the emergence of new and advanced infrastructure. However, with the increasing complexity of the infrastructure network, it is becoming more challenging to comprehend how the various infrastructure elements support each other, and what additional infrastructure is required to enhance its functionality. This presents a significant obstacle for investors who have to predict the demand for infrastructure in a constantly evolving landscape.

As new infrastructure continues to emerge, alternative modes of transport and access routes are becoming available, making it difficult to determine the precise demand for a given infrastructure project. This difficulty in predicting the cash flow generated by an infrastructure project is an indication of the increasing complexity of infrastructure investment.

To successfully navigate this complex terrain, investors must have a thorough understanding of the interdependence between various infrastructure projects and how they relate to one another. With thorough analysis and planning, investors can identify the most promising infrastructure investment opportunities, predict future cash flows, and make informed decisions that will lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future for Vietnam.

How do you assess the development of infrastructure investment in Vietnam?

It has seen both successes and challenges in recent years, with renewable energy investments in wind and solar shining as a prime example of achievement. However, the government has learned valuable lessons from past investments, and they have set their sights on securing better deals for themselves moving forward.

Generous payments to investors were a contributing factor to the success of the infrastructure projects in the past, but the Vietnamese government now seeks to negotiate better deals for themselves, which requires a more strategic approach.

Moving forward, it is essential to develop a comprehensive understanding of how to negotiate and structure deals that benefit both investors and the government. This task requires substantial effort, and careful planning to achieve a successful outcome. While renewable energy investments have been successful in the past, there are other infrastructure projects that require attention, such as transportation, telecommunications, and healthcare, where investors must navigate complex regulatory environments, bureaucratic obstacles, and opaque decision-making processes.

Investors must, therefore, have a nuanced understanding of the socio-political landscape, legal frameworks, and market dynamics to make well-informed decisions.

In other industries, such as banking and financial services, the government sets different caps on foreign ownership. What does this look like in terms of infrastructure funding?

In general, the foreign ownership limit in infrastructure investment is contingent upon the specific type of infrastructure, with some being significantly more accessible to foreign investors than others. While the government has not instituted a set policy limit, it has expressed a preference for robust Vietnamese participation, particularly in toll road development, underscoring the importance of bolstering local infrastructure capabilities.

As a result, there has been an uptick in collaborative efforts between foreign and Vietnamese investors, leveraging the countrys formidable construction sector expertise to further advance infrastructure investment.

PwCs Asia-Pacific Capital Projects & Infrastructure Summit took place on April 27 in Hanoi

Amid the flurry of investment pouring into Vietnams infrastructure industry, which country is emerging as the frontrunner, and what makes their approach so compelling?

Several nations are heavily investing in Vietnams infrastructure, with a significant amount of investment flowing through Singapore. While China is one of the primary investors, various countries such as India, Japan, Germany, and France are also exploring investment opportunities in Vietnam.

Its critical to determine which countries have the financial resources and expertise to undertake infrastructure development projects. Countries with large pension funds, such as Australia and Canada, have significant financial capabilities to invest in infrastructure. Meanwhile, Spain and Germany excel in private sector investment, making them ideal candidates for developing infrastructure in Vietnam. Multinational groups often collaborate on infrastructure projects in the country, highlighting the importance of international cooperation.

A financing index published by PwC last year has shed light on Vietnams position as the most promising investment destination for international investors worldwide. This publicly available research underscores Vietnams infrastructure sectors unparalleled attractiveness to investors, making it an optimal site for developing infrastructure.

However, it is crucial to note that investors from different countries are inclined to invest in specific sectors based on their strengths and policies. For instance, South Korean investors growing interest in Vietnams renewable energy and power sectors while remaining less involved in its water sector.

Similarly, although Chinese investors are often associated with large-scale transportation infrastructure projects, other players such as Japanese and South Korean investors are equally impactful in developing Vietnams manufacturing and green infrastructure sectors.

As such, it is paramount to engage investors with the appropriate expertise to ensure efficient infrastructure development in this country.

What are the pros and cons of donor-funded infrastructure projects in Vietnam?

Vietnams infrastructure sector has undoubtedly undergone significant transformation with the support of generous donors over the past 20-30 years. Donor-funded projects often come with their technology, which may not be the optimal solution for Vietnams unique infrastructure needs.

Hence, Vietnam needs to break free from this dependency and develop its own capabilities to determine the most appropriate infrastructure solutions. As Vietnams infrastructure industry matures, it is time to let go of the donors hand-holding and embrace a more independent approach.

The Vietnamese government has started taking a more assertive stance towards infrastructure projects, actively evaluating the compatibility of proposed solutions to ensure that they align with Vietnams particular context. The focus has shifted towards identifying practical solutions that are customised to Vietnams unique infrastructure needs, rather than blindly accepting the donors perspective.

By taking this bold step, Vietnam can stand tall and emerge as a leader in designing innovative infrastructure solutions that cater to its unique requirements.

Infrastructure investment to aid the social recovery In many developing countries, insufficient and poor infrastructure has resulted in stagnation in the flow of resources, difficulty in absorbing investment capital, causing bottlenecks and directly affecting economic growth. Therefore, investment in developing infrastructure has been a priority of many developing countries, including Vietnam.

Airport infrastructure investment needs private involvement: insiders Public investment alone is insufficient to finance new airport infrastructure, exposing the need for more favourable policies to draw in private investment.
Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) suggested in the document sent to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) last week that consumers requiring a voltage of 110 kV or higher must purchase electricity directly from the electricity market.

The proposal will allow consumers to participate in VREM instead of being required to purchase electricity at the retail tariff set by the government in July 2021.

However, the MoIT has no specific intention to deploy VREM as of this date. According to EVN, the hold up in implementing the market risks delaying the roadmap for the competitive retail electricity market outlined in Decision No. 63/2013/QD-TTg of the Prime Minister.

According to the roadmap, VREM must be piloted between 2021 and 2023 and then fully implemented after 2023. Therefore, EVN proposes that ERAV examine their proposals and reports to rapidly implement the competitive retail electricity market in accordance with the prescribed timeline.

EVN have also proposed that the MoIT and ERAV request consumers connected to the grid with a voltage of 110 kV or greater purchase electricity directly on the electricity market. This means that consumers will be able to choose when to purchase electricity from power supply units at an acceptable price, rather than being required to purchase electricity from EVN as they do today.

This proposal is based on EVN's belief that the estimation and release of distribution costs for voltage levels of 110 kV and above are simpler and that the number of consumers connecting to other voltage levels is lower.

If this mechanism is approved, these large consumers will no longer be required to purchase back electricity from EVN, the solitary buyer on the electricity market. Currently, the number of customers connecting to the grid with voltages of 110 kV or higher is small, but they account for a significant output, approximately between 40 and 45 per cent of the nation's electricity demand.

EVN could lose more than $3.92 billion in 2022-2023 The substantial rise in input parameters, influenced by the prices of imported coal, gas, and oil, led to EVN's significant loss last year.

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.
Illutrative image. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  More than 110.6 trillion VND (4.7 billion USD) of public investment was disbursed in the first four months of this year, equivalent to 14.6 per cent of the yearly target and lower than the 18.48 per cent in the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Only three ministries and 19 localities recorded a disbursement rate of over 20 per cent; while 47 ministries and centrally-run agencies, and 27 localities had disbursement rates of less than 15 per cent, it said.

To speed up the work, the ministry suggested the Prime Minister assign the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to issue specific guidance on conditions for allocating capital regarding medium-term and annual public investment.

Ministries, central agencies and localities were requested to submit reports on the progress of disbursement.

The MPI was asked to soon complete the dossier and report to the Government on the extension of implementation and payment of public investment capital from the 2022 State Budget to the following year for ministries, central agencies and localities.

$27.76 billion of public investment capital allocated in first month of year Accelerating the disbursement of public investment capital is one of the key political tasks in 2023.

MPI assigned to amplify disbursement of public funds The prime minister is again urging for quicker disbursement of public investment, with some localities seemingly at a standstill in implementing this task.
Vinh's in-depth knowledge of Vietnamese laws adds significant value to Indochine Counsel. Vinh's exceptional legal credentials include his appointment as an arbitrator for the Vietnam International Arbitration Centre in 2012. In addition, he was elected as the Chairperson of the Vietnam Business Lawyers Club for the 2022 term.

Before joining Indochine Counsel, Vinh served as a partner at Tilleke & Gibbins and as a legal consultant at Mayer Brown JSM in Ho Chi Minh City.

Vinh holds an LLB from Vietnam National University, Hanoi, an LLM from Nagoya University in Japan, and a Doctorate of Juridical Science from Meiji Gakuin University, also in Japan. He is an adjunct lecturer at Vietnam's Judicial Academy and Ho Chi Minh City's University of Law, providing counsel to numerous government ministries in Vietnam. Vinh is a regular contributor to several business and legal journals and magazines.

Vinh's impressive language skills in English complement his legal expertise, making him a valuable asset to Indochine Counsel's clients. In recognition of his contributions to the development of the legal profession in Vietnam, Vinh received a commendation from the Minister of Justice in November 2021. Clients speak highly of Vinh, praising him for his knowledge, diligence and dedication.

"We are thrilled to have Nguyen Quoc Vinh join our team as Senior Counsel. His wealth of experience and expertise in law and the legal profession will undoubtedly benefit our clients. We are confident that Vinh will play a significant role in our continued success." - Dang The Duc, Managing Partner, Indochine Counsel.

Dang The Duc, the firms Managing Partner, shared, "We are thrilled to have Nguyen Quoc Vinh join our team as Senior Counsel. His wealth of experience and expertise in law and the legal profession will undoubtedly benefit our clients. We are confident that Vinh will play a significant role in our continued success."

Indochine Counsel is one of Vietnams leading law firms. It specialises in corporate and business clients and has close to thirty lawyers in offices in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Founded 16 years ago, Indochine Counsel has six partners and is capable of handling both boutique services and large M&A deals.
Ship to accommodate foreign journalists (Photo source: VOI)

Jakarta  The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police (Polri) held a security exercise on May 6 for the 42nd ASEAN Summit which will take place from May 9-11 in the town of Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara province.



National Police Chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo said over 12,000 soldiers and police officers will be deployed in three areas from May 7-13. Various scenarios have been outlined to protect the ASEAN Summit from different types of threats, ranging from criminal activities, protests, security disturbances, cyber attacks, to unexpected natural disasters.



Earlier, the host deployed a large capacity ship as a place to accommodate foreign journalists during the event.



The ship will provide free accommodation services from May 7-12 for more than 1,900 people in a total of 508 rooms. In addition, there is also an economy class area that can house nearly 1,400 people on board.



The ASEAN Summit is expected to have a wide-ranging impact on the tourism industry of Labuan Bajo and contribute significantly to the recovery of Indonesia's "smokeless industry" after 3 years of heavy impact from the COVID-19 pandemic.



The Indonesian officials estimated that the event could contribute nearly 341 million USD to the local economy while also promoting the recovery of tourism and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

Cambodian scholar highlights Vietnam's contributions to ASEAN Summits Vietnam has always been an active and responsible member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and coordinated with Cambodia to contribute to the success of the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits, which just concluded in Phnom Penh, a Cambodian scholar has said.
Three national highways in Cuu Long (Mekong Delta) provinces are expected to be upgraded and improved with a total investment cost of 7.1 trillion VND. (Photo: VNA)

HCM City - The Ministry of Transport has proposed projects to upgrade and improve three national highways, 53, 62 and 91B, in Cuu Long (Mekong Delta) provinces.

The total investment cost of the above projects will be 7.1 trillion VND (304.3 million USD)

The project of upgrading National Highway 53 includes upgrading a section passing through Long Ho  Ba Si in Vinh Long and Tra Vinh provinces with a length of 46 kilometres and constructing a 23-kilometre bypass in Vung Liem district, Vinh Long province. The project will cost over 1.8 trillion VND, of which the reciprocal capital is 580 billion VND.

A project to improve 77 kilometres of National Highway 62 and build an 8-kilometre bypass through the town of Tan Thanh, Tan Thanh district in Long An province, will cost an estimated 2.2 trillion VND, including a loan of 1.5 trillion VND and reciprocal capital of 705 billion VND.

For the 142-kilometre National Highway 91B south of the Hau River, the total investment capital will be 1.5 trillion VND, of which over 1.3 trillion VND will be sourced from borrowing.

The above projects are expected to shorten travel times, meet transportation demand, ensure traffic safety, complete the regional road systems and help respond to climate change in the Mekong Delta.

In addition, 16 projects worth 94.3 trillion VND (4 million USD) are proposed to boost traffic connections and prevent erosion and drought in the Mekong Delta.

Among those projects are a coastal road running 415 kilometres through seven provinces at a cost of 43 trillion VND and the second phase of an embankment project worth 4.1 trillion VND in Vinh Long.

The remaining projects include building new roads and canals or upgrading existing ones in the region.

The Mekong Delta, covering 40,000 square kilometres (four million hectares), or 13 per cent of the nations total area, is home to 17.5 million people, or 18 per cent of the nations population.

For generations, the delta, which has 1.5 million hectares of land cultivating rice, has been the rice bowl of the nation.

The region accounts for half of the nations rice production, 95 per cent of rice exports, 65 per cent of aquaculture production, and 70 per cent of fruit output.

ADB agrees on loans for important projects in Can Tho The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed on loans for important projects in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho.

Dong Thaps mangos in the spotlight The Mekong Delta province of Dong Thap will be hosting the 2023 Mango Festival during Vietnams national reunification weekend.
Vietnamese migrant workers at RoK's Incheon International Airport.(Photo: VNA)

Hanoi - The number of Vietnamese workers registered to work in the Republic of Korea (RoK) has reached more than 23,400, nearly double the agreed recruitment target between Vietnam and the RoK, the Centre for Overseas Labour under the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs announced.

The centre, in collaboration with the Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs of cities and provinces, planned to select around 12,000 Vietnamese people to work in the RoK under the Employment Permit System (EPS) this year.

As of now, the number of registered workers has reached 23,412. Of that number, 19,228 have registered in the field of manufacturing, 343 in the field of construction, 1,283 in the field of agriculture, and 2,558 in the field of fisheries.

Workers have to take a Korean language proficiency test and a skill test. The Korean language proficiency test will be taken on a computer and will consist of two sections: listening comprehension and reading comprehension.

The test has a total of 40 multiple-choice questions, and the time limit is 50 minutes. The minimum passing score for the first round is 110 for the manufacturing industry, 80 for the construction and agricultural industries, and 60 for the fisheries industry. The maximum score is 200.

The number of candidates who meet the Korean proficiency requirements will be selected to take the skills test and will be evaluated based on the number of positions available in each industry, with 110 per cent of the recruitment target for each industry being allocated based on the criteria of highest to lowest scores.

To prevent cheating during the test, the centre will closely monitor the workers' identification documents, including their test registration cards and personal identification papers. Suspected cases of cheating will be checked by comparing their identifying features and fingerprint records on their ID cards, and their registration information will also be verified.

The centre will also use integrated data synthesis software and fingerprint scanners, which will capture photos and fingerprints of the workers. The fingerprint records will be stored in a database and used to verify the workers' identity at skill testing, orientation training, and departure.

Workers who fail to pass the identity verification procedures will be denied further processing, and those caught cheating will be disqualified from the programme, according to the centre.

The software will also issue a warning when it detects the same person attempting to register for the exam multiple times. Any worker found to have improper behaviour will be documented and stopped from participating in the programme for four years.

According to the EPS program signed between MoLISA and the RoKs Ministry of Employment and Labour, 12,000 Vietnamese workers will be employed in the fields of manufacturing (6,344 workers), construction (901), agriculture (841), and fisheries (4,035).

Vietnamese workers participating in this years EPS programme must meet requirements such as having no criminal record according to Vietnamese law and having never been deported from the RoK.

For those who have resided in South Korea on work visas of non-professional employment (E9) or vessel crew (E10), the duration of residence must be less than five years.

Workers who have previously worked in the RoK under the EPS programme must return to Vietnam upon the expiration of their contracts.

Figures from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs showed that up to now, Vietnam has sent over 110,000 workers to the RoK under the EPS programme, with an average income of 1,800 USD per month.

On March 10, the ministry announced the EPS programme with the RoK would be temporarily suspended for eight districts, towns and cities due to the high rate of workers who did not return to Vietnam upon the expiration of their contracts.

The districts are Nghi Xuan and Cam Xuyen districts of Ha Tinh province; Chi Linh city of Hai Duong province; Cua Lo township, Nghi Loc and Hung Nguyen districts of Nghe An province; Dong Son and Hoang Hoa districts of Thanh Hoa province.

These localities were reported to have more than 70 illegal workers residing in the RoK, and over 27 per cent of the labourers who did not return to Vietnam upon the expiration of their contracts.

RoK splashes cash on Vietnamese realty market Vietnams realty market, in addition to the manufacturing sector, has been attracting significant FDI from the Republic of Korean (RoK) in recent years, according to a survey by real estate consultancy Savills Vietnam.

RoK construction firms interested in Vietnamese market With the domestic housing market entering a period of stagnation, many construction companies of the Republic of Korea (RoK) have amended their business strategies, in which many choose Vietnam as their destination, the RoKs Newdaily newspaper reported.
Phat Dat has announced that it has fulfilled its financial obligations to develop the plot of land for its Astral City project, according to the Tax Department of Binh Duong Province. The company has contributed VND511 billion ($21.8 million) to the state budget.

Covering an area of 3.73 hectares (ha), the project is being invested in by Saigon - KL Real Estate JSC, a former subsidiary of Phat Dat. In June 2022, Phat Dat approved a resolution by the Board of Directors to transfer shares of Saigon - KL to Danh Khoi Group.

After fulfilling its financial obligations, Astral City will be granted a licence to develop and sell future apartments. Danh Khoi is also allowed to officially sign a purchase and sale contract with customers. At the same time, the company can ensure cash flow so that the bank can continue disbursing for construction.

According to Danh Khoi, by the end of the first quarter, customers had agreed to put down deposits for about 1,500 units in the project. It is estimated that the sale of these units have generated a cash flow of VND 1.52 trillion ($63.9 million - $85.3 million). The investor is currently accelerating the construction progress of the project.

Phat Dat has made efforts to complete the legal procedures for the project, which in turn facilitates distributors' sales of the project. This is a positive sign when the real estate market is experiencing such headwinds.

According to Phat Dat's 2022 financial statements, the total debt of Danh Khoi is about VND3.23 trillion ($137.7 million). Danh Khoi transferred VND511 billion ($21.79 million) in advance to Phat Dat to fulfill its financial obligations for the Astral City project. Upon the completion of the aforementioned legal procedures, Phat Dat is now expected to receive cash flow from Danh Khoi, thereby helping the company quickly recover its debts.

Currently, Phat Dat has total assets worth VND22.84 trillion ($974 million) and equity of about VND9.26 trillion ($394.9 million). Without covering inventory and liabilities related to the EverRich 2 and 3 projects, the actual total assets of Phat Dat are estimated at VND17.5 trillion ($746.3 million). Therefore, the total liability to equity ratio is only about 0.88, which is a safe ratio for real estate businesses.

After excluding the EverRich 2 and 3 projects, Phat Dat's inventory value is about VND7.7 trillion ($328.3 million), notably Binh Duong Tower, Tropicana, or Serenity Phuoc Hai. Phat Dat expects to implement the Binh Duong Tower project with an area of 4.5 ha in 2023. The project is estimated to generate a total revenue of VND13 trillion ($554.4 million).

Another high-value asset is the Office Tower at 39 Pham Ngoc Thach, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, which is recorded as a 'long-term unfinished assets'. Phat Dat's 49 per cent share of BICIDI Real Estate Investment JSC is recorded as 'investment in joint ventures'.

Short-term receivables, such as receivables from customers and prepayments from sellers, total about VND5.65 trillion ($240.9 million), including those from Danh Khoi.

After paying off nearly VND900 billion ($38.3 million) in bonds in January 2023, it is estimated that Phat Dat's total short-and-long-term debt is VND3.5 trillion ($149.2 million), with 46 per cent as issued bonds, most of which are due at the end of 2023.

However, the Phat Dat Board of Directors said that the company has a plan to monitor cash flow and collect debts, as well as change its strategy to focus on the housing segment for the remainder of 2023.

Phat Dat's strategy to successfully acquire new real estate projects After over two years as CEO at Phat Dat Real Estate Development Corporation (PDR), Bui Quang Anh Vu shared with Trong Hieu his feelings and enthusiasm about the journey he has experienced, as well as the future of Phat Dat.

Phat Dat wins big at PropertyGuru Vietnam Property Awards 2022 Phat Dat Real Estate Development JSC bagged 10 important awards at the PropertyGuru Vietnam Property Awards 2022 on October 22.
Another massacre in America.

It feels like we are living in a nightmareand we should refuse to become numb to it. Instead, we should use our anger and sorrow and demand that our leaders do the things that most Americans support to stop the carnage.

I include links to some *extremely* graphic images of Emmett Tills corpse as well as the corpses of the recent mass shooting victims in Allen, Texas below. If you believe that you will not be able to handle seeing these images, I strongly urge you not to click on them.

These images are not included to sensationalize the topic or to disrespect the deceased. They are included here because I do not believe that America can grapple with the problem of gun violence without viewing and truly confronting the devastation that it causes.

In 1955, Emmett Tillan African American teenwas kidnapped and brutally murdered by White racists.

His mother, Mamie, insisted on an open casket funeral, forcing the world to see the consequences of racism in America.

Photographs of Tills mutilated corpse were circulated around the country by Jet Magazine and The Chicago Defender and generated intense public reaction, contributing to progress in the Civil Rights Movement.

I have no idea whether being confronted with the very graphic images of mass shootings in America will rouse the kind of reaction that might lead to meaningful change in the same way that Tills helped further the Civil Rights Movement.

But I believe we owe it to our children to try: You can click here to see them.

It is not radical to say that, nationwide, we should:

Ban assault rifles and high-capacity magazines

Enact a 30-day waiting period for all gun sales

Enact red flag laws

Enact better and uniform background checks

Raise the legal age at which people can purchase firearms

Improve our mental health system

I know this is not radical because a majority of Americans support everything on that list. You can read the Gallup surveys yourself.

There is consensus in America on what needs to be done. The problem is not with the citizens, but our leaders.

There is no excuse to wait any longer. Contact your elected representatives and demand a better world for our children.

The best research suggests we can make a serious dent in this problem if our leaders would only implement the reasonable preferences of a majority of Americans.

This week's guest is Dr. Garen Wintemute, director of the Violence Prevention Research Program at the University of California-Davis. Wintemute offers his thoughts on how to reduce gun violence.

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:
South Carolina Senator and Trump supporter Lindsey Graham commented that Trump "seems to be" consolidating his support within the party.

Former presidents of the United States who have lost elections tend not to become party leaders and re-electable candidates.

Donald Trump has circumvented the problem by insisting he won the 2020 election. The majority of Republican voters have responded positively to this effort, which has swung the 2024 nomination race in his favor.

Donald Trump has positioned himself as the incumbent in exile, maintaining a perceived status as the current president among his followers. He has also been portrayed as a martyr, allegedly victimized by unknown and elusive forces, and as the rightful heir to the presidency whom a deceitful usurper unjustly displaced.

Recent polls show that among Republican primary voters, Trump has a commanding lead over his nearest rivals, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Equally as significant, former President Donald Trump has a strong and growing base of support inside the Republican Party.

The most recent survey conducted by the Wall Street Journal found that potential Republican primary voters gave Trump 48% of the support in a field of 12 GOP candidates, with DeSantis coming in second with 24%. Trump prevails over DeSantis 51% to 38% in a hypothetical head-to-head fight between the two candidates.

Other recent polls have revealed the same pattern as well, including one from Quinnipiac University that was conducted at the end of March and shows Trump with 47% of the vote in a field of 15 Republican candidates, followed by DeSantis with 33% of the vote, and with Trump holding a comparable advantage over DeSantis in a contest between the two candidates.

Republicans in the Senate think that former President Trump is increasing his popularity inside the Republican Party and now seems to have a greater chance of being the party's candidate in 2024 despite the legal issues he is currently facing.

Since the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg indicted Trump on March 30, his advantage in the polls over his nearest competitor, the Governor of Florida Ron DeSantis, has increased by a factor of two.

Recently, DeSantis has made mention of the Republican Party's "culture of losing," which can be interpreted as a subtle yet apparent allusion to Trump. If the governor perceives the need to restrain his actions prior to officially entering the competition, it is justifiable. Indirectly addressing this matter would be a wrong approach. The former US President, Donald Trump, failed to secure the support of swing voters, resulting in his electoral defeat. In an effort to deflect from this outcome, he has resorted to embracing various conspiracy theories. Governor DeSantis successfully garnered support from swing voters and emerged victorious in his most recent election without any apparent cause for personal shame. The significant discrepancy observed should be a prominent feature in the governor's campaign.

During that period, the former president still received a number of high-profile endorsements from members of Congress, including the backing of Steve Daines, the Chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (R-Montana).

Republican senators and GOP strategists believe that the support of Daines is evidence that Trump is the frontrunner to win the Republican nominee for president in 2024.

They claim that the head of the Republican campaign arm for the Senate would want to establish a productive working relationship with him to increase the prospects of the Republican Party regaining control of the Senate.

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In my opinion, his nomination is a foregone conclusion. Indeed, I do. The nomination will likely go to him. One Republican senator who hasn't endorsed a candidate in the primary but spoke on the condition of anonymity said, "I'd be stunned if he's not."

You've read the statistics. I have engaged with voters. More and more people are starting to see it. The support of Steve Daines reflects this truth. We'd like him to work with us, and he's our nominee, so he's on board with that," the senator went on.

National polls analyzed by RealClearPolitics showed Trump with a 16-point lead over DeSantis on March 30, the day Bragg indicted him in New York. By May 1st, Trump was leading his opponent by an average of nearly 30 points in the polls.

South Carolina Senator and Trump supporter Lindsey Graham recently commented that Bush "seems to be" consolidating his support within the party.

If you believe polling and hear it from people on the ground, he is undoubtedly gaining support. The New York prosecution may have inspired some of these actions. He said he got a boost from being the target of an unhinged left-wing prosecutor.

Does he continue to maintain this? I'm on his side, but I'm keeping an open mind to see how DeSantis acts. Will he or will he not run? Which campaign does he launch if he enters the race? Graham included.

Given the former president's massive polling lead, some of Trump's supporters believe that DeSantis may ultimately decide not to challenge Trump.

On Friday, DeSantis said he plans to decide "relatively soon."

At a press conference, he said, "You've got to put up or shut up on that."

Another Republican senator who remains impartial but who also prefers to remain anonymous said that Trump is the clear favorite for the upcoming election. According to the senator, Daines wants to be the first in line to endorse Trump in the hopes of working with him to help flip the Senate.

In reference to the 2016 general election, the lawmaker speculated, "I assume Trump will be the candidate" for the Republican presidential ticket.

Daines, along with Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Bill Hagerty (R-Ga.), and Mike Braun (R-Ind.), have recently announced their support for Trump's third presidential run.

According to a Republican strategist, Daines wants to get along with Trump so that they can unite behind the most viable candidates in the 2018 Senate primaries.

A political strategist has observed that Daines "appears to be working on trying to point Trump to some of the stronger candidates in Senate races."

Shortly after Trump officially launched his presidential campaign in November, one Republican senator who had previously endorsed him told The Hill that he had doubts about Trump's electability.

The lawmaker said he was going to hold off until after the 2020 election to see if Trump could get over his claims of widespread fraud.

Concerns among Senate Republicans about Trump's electability against President Biden have subsided, but he continues to claim, without evidence, that he lost the last election because of fraud.

Trump and Biden tied in a hypothetical matchup in an April 29May 2 Economist/YouGov poll of 1,500 adults across the country, while Biden led DeSantis by three points.

"Not only is Donald Trump doing well in the primary, and he's the clear frontrunner in the primary, but he's also beating Joe Biden in the general election, 47 to 43," said Jim McLaughlin, Trump's pollster, of his firm's polls on a hypothetical rematch of the 2020 election.

In both 2016 and 2020, he said, "Our polling never had [Trump] ahead in general."

People supposed to be intelligent often fail to grasp the reasons for Trump's enduring popularity among his core supporters. This is because his presidency was so fruitful. Voters shared his views," he continued.

DeSantis, who has not formally announced his plans to run for president, has not yet secured any strong Senate support, while Trump has collected 11 endorsements from Senate Republicans.

On April 18, 2019, Utah Republican Senator Mike Lee hosted a meet-and-greet for DeSantis in Washington. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) was the only other senator to attend; he later stated that he would not be endorsing anyone in the Republican presidential primary next year.

There are Republicans in the Senate who don't think it's wise to write off Trump as their nominee in 2024 just yet.

"I anticipate substantial swings in the polls. They already have. DeSantis held the lead after the month of November. Now Trump is in the lead. Given the current state of the electorate, I believe that national polls are likely to be somewhat deceptive. Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.) opposed efforts by Trump allies to object to the certification of Biden's 2020 victory on January 6, saying, "Presidential stuff is all state by state."

Although Thune conceded that Trump "has got a formidable position" and "he's got a very loyal following," he argued, "I think there are an awful lot of people there that are up for grabs too."

Presuming that charges from the Department of Justice and the Fulton County district attorney in Georgia would have more credibility than those from Bragg, prominent Republican pollster Whit Ayres said that the possibility of additional indictments against Trump could swing the race away from Trump.

In response to GOP senators' claims that Trump will easily win next year's primary, he said, "People seem to have an inevitable tendency to jump to premature conclusions well before we know many of the key elements of a campaign environment."

Trump could face felony charges alleging that he incited the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and attempted to interfere with the 2020 election in Georgia. "What might be the political effects of serious felony indictments backed by a mountain of compelling evidence?" he asked.

Do you think Republican voters will ignore multiple felony indictments supported by strong evidence if they happen? Perhaps, but I couldn't tell you for sure," he admitted.

However, Graham, one of Trump's closest Hill allies, argued that Trump is running a more disciplined campaign, increasing his appeal to voters.

The more he emphasizes the differences between his administration and President Joe Biden, the better off he will be. That investment is starting to pay off," he said.

Graham said, in response to a question about the endorsement of Trump by the Chairman of the Senate Republicans' campaign arm, "I think Steve understands  I know he has a close relationship with him, but he sees Trump as the most likely nominee."

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The National Wall Street Journal poll surveyed registered voters to determine their preference in hypothetical matchups between Biden and the leading Republican candidates. According to the survey results, in the presence of Trump as a candidate, 48% of the respondents expressed their inclination towards voting for Biden, either definitely or probably, whereas 45% favored Trump.

According to the survey results, when DeSantis was included as a candidate, 48% of respondents preferred the Republican candidate, while 45% opted for Biden.

The margins mentioned above resemble the results obtained by Quinnipiac a few weeks prior, wherein Biden held the lead over Trump by 48% to 46%, and DeSantis held the lead over Biden by 48% to 46%.

Swing state polling released this week shows a similar dynamic, too, including three recent polls from the Republican polling firm Public Opinion Strategies reported on across various outlets (note: POS is the Republican half of the NBC News bipartisan polling outfit).

According to a recent poll conducted by POS, which surveyed 500 registered voters in Michigan, DeSantis is currently leading Biden with a 45% to 43% margin. However, the same poll indicates that Biden is leading Trump with a 45% to 42% margin. The Dispatch reported this information on Friday.

According to recent reports by McClatchy, DeSantis holds the lead over Biden in Pennsylvania by 45% to 42% and Arizona by 48% to 42%. Conversely, Biden holds a lead over Trump in Pennsylvania by 46% to 42% and in Arizona by 45% to 44%.

The current stage is in its preliminary phase. The Republican Party is expected to select its nominee in approximately one year's time, and Governor DeSantis has yet to make an official announcement regarding his candidacy. Consequently, he has not had the opportunity to establish his identity and reputation on a national level, nor has he been subject to external characterization.

The appearance of Trump resembles that of a previous president who departed from office with a favorable standing among his political party, and subsequent events have had minimal impact on this perception. Regarding his recent legal disputes, a majority of individuals assert that one reason for supporting him is to demonstrate solidarity during those legal battles.

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Biden approval rating at new low, over half of voters support charging Trump
On May 4th, by the shores of Lake Bracciano, in Vigna di Valle, the Historical Museum of the Air Force was inaugurated, after 18 intense months of renovation and redevelopment of the exhibition itinerary.

The event was attended by the Vice President of the Chamber of Deputies, Honorable Giorgio Mule, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Luca Goretti, the Chief Inspector General Basilio di Martino, President of the Program Office Centenary Committee of the Air Force, numerous civil and military authorities.

Many innovations were introduced to the Museum, which after about 18 months of construction sees its exhibition area expanded by 30%, reaching a total of over 16,000 sq/m, consolidating its position among the most important aeronautical museums in the world. The Historical Museum of Vigna di Valle, inaugurated in 1977, stands on the oldest aeronautical settlement in Italy; its origin, in fact, is linked to one of the fathers of Italian aviation, Major Maurizio Moris, who in 1907 created the Experimental Aeronautical Shipyard there and in 1910 the Airship Pilots School. Inside the Museum there is also the Umberto Nobile documentation center.

A completely new visual identity, with a stylized logo that recalls in an iconic way one of the symbols of Italian aeronautical ingenuity and of the history of the Armed Forces, the Siai-Marchetti S.55 seaplane and an exhibition itinerary organized in chronological order through five pavilions. Thanks to the work of a Technical-Scientific Committee and the support both of external experts for scientific curatorship, for the layout and graphics, and of engineers and specialized personnel of the Armed Forces, the existing spaces have been redesigned  placing memorabilia and aircraft in a more rational and functional way  and created new spaces, with screens and multimedia areas, flight simulators, a cinema hall, relaxation areas for visitors and suggestive connecting tunnels between the hangars with the original shape of an aircraft cockpit.

Not only aircraft and memorabilia, but many innovations have affected the Museum structures, which have undergone profound redevelopment interventions: new air conditioning systems, new LED lighting systems, new two-tone flooring, and, as mentioned, a new exhibition itinerary. A reception center has been created, adjacent to the visitor parking lot, which will act as an information point before the departure of the visit and where a sales point for aeronautical merchandise will also be built; the construction of a new double-span pavilion has also allowed the spaces to breathe. An old warehouse near the main hangar was also completely redeveloped, which was used as a multipurpose area with an exhibition of engines, uniforms, and memorabilia, teaching areas, exhibition halls, and a multimedia area with flight simulators and virtual reality.

The Museum houses precious and unique pieces, starting from the Garnerin balloon, the oldest aeronautical memorabilia in the world, expertly and patiently restored under the supervision of the Superintendency of Cultural Heritage which also oversaw the restoration of the SIAI S.79 Sparviero.

A unique collection of its kind with about 80 aircraft on display. From the Bleriot, to the Austro-Hungarian Lohner seaplane and then moving on to the seaplanes: Vigna di Valle is the aeronautical museum that can boast the largest number of seaplanes on display, among which the Macchi MC.72 stands out, holder of the speed record for seaplanes with over 709 km/h on average. We then continue with the IMAM Ro.37 and Ro.43, with the FIAT G.212, the last multi-engine built by FIAT, the SIAI SM.82, and the CANT Z.506 which, when in service, served with the Search & Rescue at Vigna di Valle. And again the jets of the first post-war period and the current ones, with particular attention to missions outside national borders, to the National Acrobatic Team (Frecce Tricolori), to the helicopters and paratroopers of the Air Force. The Museum also welcomes new aircraft in the sector dedicated to the modern period, such as the Tornado IDS with Desert Storm livery, the Eurofighter, and the HH-3F and AB-212 helicopters.

For the renewal and redevelopment of the Historical Museum of Vigna di Valle, the Air Force extends a public thanks to Avio Aero, which as the financial sponsor has provided its contribution to the realization of the work.

It will be possible to visit the Air Force Historical Museum within the first ten days of May. All the details will soon be available and will be communicated on the Italian Air Force social profiles, on the Air Force website, and on the Aeronautica Militare 100 Centenary app.
The Pilot King

As the UK prepares to crown King Charles III, Stephen Bridgewater looks back at the military flying career of the new monarch.

On Saturday May 6th, 2023, King Charles III of England will be crowned at Westminster Abbey in London, England. While many pilots may think that they are kings of the sky, this king really is a pilot!

While he was still the Prince of Wales, King Charles received pilot training from the Royal Air Force and also flew helicopters with the Royal Navy. Up until the 1990s, he would routinely fly himself to and from appointments in aircraft belonging to the Queens Flight  also known as No.32 (The Royal) Squadron, RAF.

Britains Royal Family has a long flying history; in fact the first recorded flight by a British royal occurred on July 17, 1917th, when the future King Edward VIII (then Prince of Wales) flew over northern France as a passenger in a Bristol F.2B. He would fly several times before the end of the conflict, including a trip over Italy with the legendary Canadian ace, Maj William Barker VC at the controls. However, upon hearing this, the princes father, King George V, forbade him from flying any further, a situation which endured until the late 1920s.

The Kings Flight

A brace of Westland Wapitis, which arrived with No.24 Squadron at RAF Northolt in 1928, became the first two aircraft in the Kings Flight; the biplane performing a VIP transport role. In 1929, Prince Edward received permission to take flying lessons, whereupon he bought a de Havilland DH.60 Moth (G-AALG), which his younger brothers, the Dukes of Gloucester and Kent, also used to qualify for their pilots wings.

By the time he ascended the throne in 1936, the Prince would buy a further eleven aircraft, including two de Havilland Puss Moths (G-ABNN & G-ABFV), a Fox Moth (G-ACDD), Dragon (G-ACGG), several Dragon Rapides and a specially commissioned Vickers Viastra X (G-ACCC). The latter was lavishly fitted out as a Royal Barge and, like most of the aircraft in his fleet, it wore a blue and red livery inspired by the Brigade of Guards.

The Prince employed Flt Lt Edward Mouse Fielden as a full-time pilot; he accompanied him on all flights other than those in the Princes single-seat Comper Swift air racer. Most of the aircraft were based at RAF Hendon, where they were unofficially referred to as The Royal Flight.

When he ascended the throne as King Edward VIII in 1936, one of the new monarchs first decision was to create an official Kings Flight; the worlds first official aircraft unit for a head of state.

No.24 Squadron at RAF Northolt near London formed the basis for the Flight; the squadron having operated the aforementioned Wapitis as part of its Communications Flight since 1928. Mouse Fielden received a promotion to Captain and retained his role leading the Flight, a post he would hold until 1961, when he retired as Air Vice Marshal Sir Edward Fielden.

King Edward VIII abdicated on December 11th, 1936; his younger brother, the Duke of York succeeded him to become King George VI. The new king continued the Flight, adding an Airspeed Envoy III (G-AEXX) in May 1937. The Envoy came equipped with seats for four passengers plus a pilot, wireless operator and steward.

King Charles

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II succeeded her father as monarch in February 1952, and over the coming years, the renamed Queens Flight continued to grow. Although the Queen herself was never a pilot, her husband, the late Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh was a keen flyer. It was therefore no surprise that the young Prince Charles was to follow in his fathers wake, developing a passion for the skies.

Whilst studying at Cambridge University, the Prince began two and a half years of flight training under the tutelage of then-Sqn Ldr Philip Pinney. Like other pilots of his era, the young Prince undertook his pilot training on the venerable de Havilland Canada DHC-1 Chipmunk, with Chipmunk T.10 WP903 allocated specifically to him for lessons.

Unlike other Chippies, WP903 wore a Dayglo red livery and had a large rotating warning lamp (dubbed the Parrot) mounted atop the canopy. WP903 began its service with the Queens Flight on September 20th, 1960. Interestingly, both Prince Phillip and Prince Michael, The Duke of Kent, had learned to fly in this same airframe before Charles started his own flying career.

Sqn Ldr Pinney flew a total of 101 sorties with the man who would become King. Starting his training at RAF Tangmere, Prince Charles went on to perform his first solo flight at RAF Bassingbourn on January 14th, 1969, followed by the award of his Pilots Licence in March 1969, and his RAF Preliminary Flying Badge on August 2nd of the same year.

Pinney and the Prince became firm friends, regularly fishing and climbing together and the instructor even attending his famous students 21st birthday party.

WP903 itself would serve the RAF until 1974 when Britains Ministry of Defence sold it to the Culdrose Gliding Club which used it as a glider tug until December 1996. The Henlow Chipmunk Group then acquired the airframe, restoring it to its Queens Flight configuration. Today WP903 can be found at Old Warden aerodrome, the famous home of the Shuttleworth Collection; over the Coronation weekend, it will be appearing at the collections first air show of the 2023 season.

Naval Aviator

After qualifying for the award of his preliminary flying badge on the Chipmunk, the Prince moved on to the Beagle Basset CC.1, clocking up a further 90 hours of multi-engined flying before he transitioned to a jet training course. Pathe News footage of the young Prince flying the Basset is viewable below

With the rank of Flight Lieutenant, the Prince arrived at RAF College Cranwell in March 1971 to fly the BAC Jet Provost T.5. However, before he could take to the skies, he had to complete the same ground school, technical training, combat survival, emergency drills and cockpit procedures as the rest of his course mates.

Prince Charles finally started his jet flying on March 19th, 1971, with Sqn Ldr (later Air Chief Marshal and Sir) Richard Johns as his instructor. Whilst his time in the RAF was short, the training he received prepared Prince Charles for a military career in the Royal Navy and gave him his first taste of military flying.

His Majesty transferred to the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, Devon in 1972, where he qualified as a helicopter pilot flying the Westland Wessex Mk.5. During his training, the Prince earned the Double Diamond trophy as best pilot, before moving to 707 Naval Air Squadron and then to 845 Naval Air Squadron, flying the Commando version of the Wessex from the aircraft carrier HMS Hermes.

He received the command of his own ship, the minehunter HMS Bronington, for the final 10 months of his active service in the Royal Navy, which ended in 1976.

Despite stepping down from the military to concentrate on his royal duties, Prince Charles (now King Charles III) has remained close to the armed forces and in 2012 Queen Elizabeth II awarded him the highest rank as Marshal of the Royal Air Force. The new King also holds the honorary rank of Admiral of the Fleet in the Royal Navy and ascended to the position of Air Commodore-in-Chief of the RAF following the death of Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II in September last year.

King Charles two sons, William and Harry, also pursued careers in the military  with William flying Sea King search-and-rescue helicopters with the RAF and Harry flying the Westland-built WAH-64 Apache with the British Army Air Corps.

The Pilot King

The fact that Britains new monarch was an aviatior was not lost on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who used a historic speech in the UKs Houses of Parliament earlier this year to praise King Charless support for Ukraine. Referring to the Kings own air force training, Zelenskyy said: In Britain, the king is an air force pilot and in Ukraine today, every air force pilot is a king.

Even after his military career was over, Prince Charles would regularly fly the aircraft of the Royal Flight. However, the monarch gave up flying in 1994 when the four-engined BAe 146 airliner he was piloting ran off the runway on Islay, an island off the west coast of Scotland.

According to the official accident report, the aircraft landed with a tailwind component of 12kts following an unstable approach that was both above the normal approach path and too fast. The aircraft touched down on its nose landing gear, and wheelbarrowed, delaying the activation of the weight-on-wheels switches and hence the deployment of the lift spoilers and the selection of ground idle power. The weight-on-wheels switches activated with 509m of runway remaining, but the wheels then locked and the aircraft ran off the end of the airstrip and received damage.

Thankfully, nobody was hurt in the high-profile accident, with the Prince later commenting: It wasnt quite a crash. We went off the end of the runway, unfortunately. It is not something I recommend!

Nevertheless, the future King Charles took the decision to ground himself following the incident, something which St Jamess Palace said at the time was a personal decision the Prince took on his own.

Coronation Flypast

In June 1953, almost 300 aircraft overflew London to mark the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and the following month a special Royal Review took place at RAF Odiham. There, Her Majesty the Queen viewed a static park consisting of more than 300 RAF aircraft and later watched a flypast of over 600 aircraft belonging to the RAF and Commonwealth air forces.Pathe News also created a short film covering the 1953 Coronation Flypast, as seen below.

The Coronation Flypast for King Charles III will be a far more modest affair (if the fickle British weather allows it to happen at all). If everything goes to plan, around 60 aircraft will fly down The Mall in London and overhead Buckingham palace at 14:30hrs GMT. Types expected to participate include Juno, Wildcat, Apache, Merlin, Chinook and Puma helicopters as well as Typhoon and F-35B fast jets, Texan T.1 and Phenom T.1 trainers and heavies including the C-17, A-400M Atlas, Voyager, P-8 Poseidon MRA.1, RC-135 Rivet Joint, Envoy IV (Dassault Falcon 900) and the C-130J Hercules. The latter type will be making one of its final public appearances before retiring from RAF service.

Of course no Royal Flypast would be complete without the Lancaster, Spitfires and Hurricanes of the RAFs Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and the iconic, scarlet Hawk T.1s of the Red Arrows.

No matter the weather, one thing seems certain  Britains new King will be looking up at the flypast with nostalgic eyes and perhaps a twinge of envy that he is not in a cockpit himself.
All across the country, farmers work hard every day to produce food for the nation and their communities. Americas rich landscape allows farmers to grow a variety of crops and raise livestock.

If youre a farmer, whether you produce poultry products that you take to your local market or grow corn on a large scale, you provide services on which every community depends. Being a manufacturer in the agricultural industry, Chief Agri understands the importance of supporting farmers the same way that farmers support everybody else.

Chances are you're familiar with the service-oriented professionals at Chief Agri. The company has been in business for over 60 years, providing grain storage solutions to farmers. But that's not all the Nebraska-based company does. Chief Agri is a brand of Chief Industries, a business that supports the agricultural community in more ways than meets the eye.

"We don't have one singular way we support our farmers," says Beth Frerichs, Chief Industries' director of marketing and communications. "We truly support our producers on a large scale in many ways." As a family-owned and -operated company that puts people first, Chiefs goal is to provide solutions that take care of your livelihood.

Strong relationships drive community connection for Chief Agri

At first glance, it's easy to see how Chief Agri's products benefit farmers. Many farmers are familiar with the company's innovative grain storage solutions that minimize storage costs while maximizing product quality.

The company also produces the Chief Pivot Walker, which was a hot contender for the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance's 2022 Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition. The Pivot Walker replaces conventional pivot tires and instead uses foot pads to trap mud and prevent deep, costly ruts in your field.

And all of this is because Chief Agri listens to its customers and responds to their needs. The company values agility and relevancy and maintains direct lines of communication with the community to ensure they're always providing what farmers need.

"We're with them in every single phase of growing their business, farm or co-op," says Jose Mesa, Chief Agri district manager. "We think about the entire agricultural community and industry and constantly ask how we can best support them."

Chief even has its own transportation operation, Chief Carriers, to ensure that Chief can oversee care for the customers needs. Chiefs trusted carriers supply dependable transportation solutions across all 48 contiguous states and Canada. Their professionals deliver materials on time, to wherever the end customer needs them.

From home to the fields, farmers can feel secure with Chief products

Chief prides itself on providing durable, cost-effective solutions to farmers that dont just serve their operational needs in the field, but also serve their families at home. The companys modular home division, BonnaVilla, produces custom homes, constructed with high-quality materials at a reasonable price. With a durable home that wont break the bank, farmers can rest easy knowing they can depend on Chiefs engineering to keep their families safe.

Homes arent the only tried-and-true constructs under Chiefs purview. Chief Buildings provides versatile, energy-efficient solutions across many industries and markets, including recreational facilities, retail spaces and warehouses. Whether youre a farmer who depends on Chiefs strong and environmentally conscious materials to house your equipment, or youre a business owner who needs a manufacturing space to produce the goods that support you and your family, Chief Buildings has you covered.

Processes that provide income opportunities to farmers

Chief does more than provide top-quality products for farmers to optimize their operations. Chief operates two of Nebraska's 24 ethanol plants, contributing to Nebraska as the No. 2 ethanol-producing state in the country. In 1990, Chief Ethanol purchased Nebraskas first dry-mill ethanol plant that has been in production since 1985. Chief acquired its second plant in 2016. Between the two plants, Chief can produce over 120 million gallons of fuel annually.

Chief's presence in the ethanol industry is also an opportunity for farmers to generate income. Farmers can sell their grain to Chief's ethanol plants. Not only do the plants make ethanol from this grain, but high-value animal feed goes back into farmers' hands to support their livestock production.

"We look at how we can support them on the back end, not just through grain storage, but by providing an opportunity for producers to sell directly to us," says Frerichs. "We're supporting agriculture producers on both sides." The high moisture content and transportation costs mean farmers local to Chiefs two plants experience the greatest benefits of accessing this animal feed for their livestock production.

Working directly with local organizations to uplift communities

The Chief Foundation is another avenue through which the company invests in the agricultural community at large. The foundation partners with local organizations to support communities where it counts. In Rensselaer, Indiana, for instance, the Chief Foundation recently provided a grant for a new childcare program to help alleviate the stress many families were facing by the childcare shortage. From supporting United Way efforts to valuing the agricultural education efforts of the FFA, Chief invests in communities, letting local partners lead the way.

"We find local organizations where we know their impact will be giving to the people in the local community," says Frerichs.

Chief's operating model focuses on people, whether farmers benefit from the company's line of products or families benefit from Chief's investment in their community. The folks at Chief listen to their customers' and community contacts' needs to continue earning the agricultural community's trust.

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.
WATERLOO  Authorities have released the identities of the victims in a dog attack that claimed the life of an infant last week.

Police said 9-month-old Navy Smith died when the family dog attacked her at her Scott Avenue home Thursday morning.

The babys grandmother, 49-year-old Susan Smith, attempted to help the child and also was injured, police said. She was transferred to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for treatment.

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

The dog was seized and put down. The remains were sent to the state veterinary lab for testing.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been set up for the family and has raised $30,000 in donations as of Monday morning.

Photos: Dog attack, Waterloo May 4, 2023 050423jr-dog-attack-1 050423jr-dog-attack-2 050423jr-dog-attack-3 050423jr-dog-attack-4 050423jr-dog-attack-5
ALLEN, Texas  Federal officials are looking into whether the gunman who killed eight people at a Dallas-area mall expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology Sunday as they work to discern a motive for the attack, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe were used by Mauricio Garcia, 33, and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read "RWDS," an acronym for the phrase "Right Wing Death Squad," which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents have interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined Sunday evening to answer questions from the AP, saying of the investigation, "we actually don't have a lot."

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as suspected of killing eight people at a Texas outlet mall, a day after the attack turned an afternoon of shopping into a massacre.

Garcia was fatally shot Saturday by a police officer who happened to be near the suburban Dallas mall.

A law enforcement official said investigators have been searching a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The official said police also found multiple weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Two law enforcement officials said investigators also searched a Dallas home connected to the suspect. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of an ongoing investigation.

A woman who lives three houses down from the low brick house said she saw a large group of uniformed officers go into the home Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

"They went in like real fast, and I seen them do that like twice," said Marsha Alexander, who said officers were still in the area when she went to bed around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. They were gone by Sunday morning.

On Sunday afternoon, a woman named Julie was sitting on the porch of her house, next door to the one searched the day before. She declined to give her last name to an AP reporter but said she awoke from a nap around 6 p.m. Saturday to see four police squad cars and a large group of officers outside her neighbor's home.

She said they entered the home and were joined about an hour later by FBI agents and other people wearing plainclothes, who she also took to be law enforcement.

The woman said she did not know her neighbors well, but knew them to be "very polite, very nice people." She said the man she now understands to have been the shooter was always friendly and would wave or honk his horn as he came and went.

At about 2 p.m. Sunday, a man entered the home that was searched, but when reporters knocked on the door and waited, no one answered.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said the assailant wore tactical gear and fired an AR-15-style weapon. He urged Congress to enact tighter restrictions on firearms and ammunition.

"Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts," said Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

Republicans in Congress, he said, "cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug."

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Barely a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

This year has seen an average of about one mass killing per week, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Information about the gunman in Allen emerged as the community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Authorities have not publicly identified those who were killed.

The wounded remained hospitalized Sunday, three in critical condition and four in fair condition, the Allen Police Department said in a statement.

John Mark Caton, senior pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church about two miles from the mall, offered prayers during a regular Sunday morning service for victims, first responders and the shoppers and employees who "walked out past things they never should have seen."

"Some of our people were there. Some perhaps in this room. Some of our students were working in those stores and will be changed forever by this," Caton said.

Caton offered similar sentiments during a Sunday night vigil at the church attended by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who has signed laws easing firearms restrictions following past mass shootings in Texas, and other elected leaders. Earlier that day, Abbott said on Fox News that Texas wouldn't enact gun control now.

"People want a quick solution," Abbott said. "The long term solution here is to address the mental health issue."

The attack unfolded at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center. Witnesses reported seeing children among the victims. Some said they also saw what appeared to be a police officer and a mall security guard unconscious on the ground.

Andria Gaither, the assistant manager at the Tommy Hilfiger clothing store, said Sunday she was at the back of the store Saturday afternoon when she saw two young girls trying to hide in a dressing room. At first, she thought they were playing. Then she heard one say shots were being fired.

Gaither looked around to see customers and the store manager running to the back of the store. Eventually, Gaither and the others ran out a back door.

"As soon as I got outside the back of the store, you could hear the shooting," Gaither said Sunday. "It was so loud. I'd never ever heard anything like that in my life. It was deafening."

Allen, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of downtown Dallas and with a population of about 105,000 residents, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show Allen's population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas' recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a "Hispanic invasion" and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

Photos: Gunman kills 8 at Dallas-area mall
More than two years after a complaint was brought against the 10 Republicans who attempted to hand Wisconsins Electoral College votes to President Donald Trump, a Dane County judge said Monday he plans to send the case back to the state elections commission for a second consideration.

Dane County Circuit Judge Frank Remington, who plans to issue a written ruling in the next week or so, said when he sends the matter back to the Wisconsin Elections Commission hell stipulate that GOP commissioner Robert Spindell Jr.  who was also one of the 10 fake electors to sign the documents  must recuse himself this time around.

In March 2022, Spindell and the rest of the bipartisan commission unanimously dismissed the complaint after determining the 10 Republicans had not violated state elections laws.

Attorneys for Spindell, the elections commission and liberal group Law Forward, which filed the initial complaint in February 2021, all largely agreed with Remingtons impending decision. Spindells attorney Mark Maciolek said his client has agreed to not participate in the complaints second consideration before the commission.

Ill tip my hand, Remington said in oral arguments Monday. Im going to issue a written decision. But  surprise, surprise  Im going to come to the conclusion, as all parties have, that the appropriate remedy is to vacate the decision of the (elections commission) and remand it back for further proceedings, which dont include commissioner Spindell.

The case stems from a Dec. 14, 2020, meeting at the Capitol where, following pressure from people in Trumps inner circle, the 10 Republicans signed official-looking documents purporting that Trump had won Wisconsin, despite recounts and court decisions affirming that President Joe Biden won the battleground state by almost 21,000 votes.

Wisconsin Law Forward filed a complaint in early 2021 with the elections commission on behalf of the Service Employees International Union alleging the Republican slate of electors violated Wisconsin law when they convened and then sent documents to federal and state officials falsely claiming to be the states rightful electors.

After the elections commission dismissed the complaint, Law Forward since filed a separate lawsuit on behalf of a handful of Democrats, including two official presidential electors, against the 10 Republicans, as well as Boston-area lawyer Kenneth Chesebro and Jim Troupis, a former Republican-appointed Dane County judge who has represented Trump in Wisconsin.

That lawsuit, which is also before Remington, alleges the Republicans and their attorneys broke multiple laws, including counterfeiting public records, illegally interfering with official procedures, defrauding the public and engaging in conspiracy. Plaintiffs seek more than $2.4 million in damages, including $2,000 fines for the Republicans and their attorneys, and up to $200,000 in punitive damages for each plaintiff.

Nine of the 10 Republicans have sought to have the lawsuit broken up and brought before individual courts in their counties of residence.

Elections 101: Video series explains how elections are carried out in Wisconsin The Wisconsin Elections Commission put together the following series of instructional videos and accompanying lesson plans for use in high school civics classes and the general public. Elections overview An overview of elections administration in Wisconsin. Voting Security Let's take a look at how we maintain security and integrity with all of our elections. Nuts and bolts The ins-and-outs of voter processes like registering to vote and requesting a ballot to vote absentee. A Day at the Polls See what it is like to go to the polls and vote.
Weather Alert

...SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS ARE POSSIBLE THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING ACROSS THE SIERRA, WESTERN NEVADA, AND NORTHEAST CALIFORNIA... * An area of low pressure and increased moisture over the region will bring scattered shower and thunderstorm chances to the Sierra, western Nevada, and northeast California this afternoon and evening. TIMING: * Thunderstorms will begin forming in the late morning and early afternoon over Mono, Mineral, Lyon, Douglas, and El Dorado counties south of US 50. Coverage will then increase through the afternoon northward across the Lake Tahoe Basin and much of western Nevada, finally lifting northward into northeast California, northwest Nevada, and the Basin and Range during the evening, diminishing after 11 pm PST. HAZARDS: * The primary hazards from thunderstorms will be frequent cloud-to- ground lightning, gusty winds of 40+ mph, heavy rainfall, and small hail. PREPAREDNESS: * Keep your eyes on the sky today and limit outdoor recreation activities before 10 am PST to be safe. Lightning can strike from up to 10 miles away. When thunder roars, head indoors! See a flash, dash inside!
Military museums honor and teach. They celebrate the soldiers who have defended our country and help us understand the challenges they faced.

The following six museums offer a glimpse into significant battles through important artifacts and often use innovative interactive exhibits to tell their story.

This Memorial Day  and throughout the year  plan a visit to these awe-inspiring institutions to marvel at supersonic jets, follow the path of a soldier into battle and even visit a once-secret missile silo.

This M3A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle is displayed in the Changing World gallery at the National Museum of the United States Army. National Museum of the United States Army, Duane Lempke

National Museum of the United States Army, Fort Belvoir, Virginia

From the American Revolution to the liberation of Afghanistan, this museum tells the daring and dramatic history of the nations oldest military force. Located near Washington D.C., the $430 million attraction wows visitors with immersive exhibits and more than 1,300 artifacts, including a Huey helicopter from the Cold War and the M4 Cobra King tank used to storm the beaches of Normandy.

Elaborate dioramas put museum guests in the middle of battle. One section shows World War II soldiers climbing down a troop ship cargo net. Another area is devoted to more recent history, including operations in Afghanistan and Iraq. Separate areas salute Medal of Honor winners and other notable soldiers. The museum also offers science-based interactive exhibits for kids and battlefield simulators for thrill seekers, offering a glimpse at urban warfare or a chance to join a bombing run with the Tuskegee Airmen. General admission is free; tickets must be reserved in advance.

Visitors get an intimate look at the technology that helped deter a nuclear war at the Titan Missile Museum near Tucson, Arizona. Titan Missile Museum

Titan Missile Museum, Green Valley, Arizona

During the Cold War, thousands of soldiers manned underground bunkers around the country, poised to launch nuclear missiles at the Soviet Union and its allies. Today only a few of these sites are open to visitors, including a once-secret silo south of Tucson.

A 45-minute guided tour takes visitors below the Arizona desert to visit the launch control center, where from 1963 to 1982 Air Force combat crews served 24-hour shifts. A visit literally puts guests in the seat of the airmen who would have been required to turn launch keys and start what would likely have become World War III. 

The museum also features a Titan II, a nuclear intercontinental ballistic missile that could fly up to 9,000 miles in 30 minutes to strike its target on the other side of the world. While it has been disabled, the 103-foot weapon remains in its silo, seemingly poised to take flight. Note: Visitors must be able to climb up and down 55 stairs to reach the bunker. Admission is $16.50 for adults, $15.50 for seniors. Reservations strongly recommended.


Bullabulling Exploration Update

Perth, May 8, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - c Additionally, the project is considered highly prospective for gold.



Key Highlights



- Several new potential Lithium-Caesium-Tantalum ("LCT") pegmatite targets were identified in recently acquired drone aerial imagery across Belararox's 100% owned Bullabulling project.



- The new targets are considered prospective for lithium from pegmatites associated with the adjacent Bali Monzogranite and additional targets are present as gold in sheeted quartz veins.



- Several lithium-rich pegmatites have been identified in the same structural corridor adjacent to the Bali Monzonite and other potential pegmatite source rocks. Notable lithium projects and prospects in the immediate vicinity include Future Battery Minerals' ( ASX:FBM ) Kangaroo Lithium Project vii, the historical Ubini mine viii and the Red Panda prospect xi.



- Planned exploration activities include:



- Finalise review and interpretation of the recently acquired drone aerial imagery and other available satellite imagery assessing for potential pegmatite and sheeted quartz vein targets;



- Follow-up field reconnaissance mapping, rock chip sampling and Portable X-Ray Fluorescence ("XRF") analysis of all identified targets; and



- Systematic surface sampling of the most prospective targets.



Figure 1* on page 2 and Figure 2* on page 3 present the geological prospectivity for lithium and/or gold, as presented in the Key Highlights.



Managing Director, Arvind Misra, commented:



The continued exploration success at Bullabulling is an exciting development in the pipeline of activities for Belararox and represents a real opportunity in a highly prospective LCT pegmatite district in WA.



Follow-up field mapping and sampling of the highly prospective targets is soon to commence, and we aim to continue to update the market as activities progress.



Background



Belararox holds the Bullabulling Project which is comprised of 26 wholly owned tenements covering approx. 50km2 to the west of Coolgardie in the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia. The company is pleased to announce it is assessing the LCT pegmatite potential of these tenements.



*To view tables and figures, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/M7103846





About Belararox Limited





Belararox Limited (ASX:BRX) is a mineral explorer focused on securing and developing resources to meet the surge in demand from the technology, battery and renewable energy markets. Our projects currently include the potential for zinc, copper, gold, silver, nickel and lead resources.
Recently I fell into conversation with a nurse who told me she had lived in 30 cities in eight states before arriving in Albuquerque. She said Albuquerque was unlike any other place she had lived before.

She wasnt talking about our unique blending of cultures, our distinctive architecture and food, the soaring mountains or gorgeous sunsets. Not at all. She said, Everyone Ive met here has lost at least one family member to violence, suicide, drugs or car crashes. Why is that?

It was a good thing she wasnt checking my blood pressure at that moment. It can be a shock to see familiar things through a newcomers eyes. But in the days that followed I began to wonder how much statistical reality lay behind her perception.

Warning: this column deals with some of the darkest aspects of life in New Mexico. My goal today is to put the problem in a national context. The next couple of columns will suggest some ways of getting past the tedious old debates, if debate is even the right word. The world has changed a lot since 1968 but the way we talk about crime hasnt changed at all.

So, seatbelts fastened? In 2020 the national suicide rate was 13.96 per 100,000 people, according to the CDC. In New Mexico, the rate was much higher, at 24.18. In Wyoming, it was higher still, at 30.46. In fact, all the Rocky Mountain states have high suicide rates.

The anomaly is so pronounced that an entire body of scientific research explores the link between suicide and high altitude. A 2022 review of the literature in Public Health Nursing reported that 17 of 19 studies found a positive association between the two variables.

If youre like me, youre thinking that alcohol and drugs plus social isolation plus guns plus a lack of mental health care equals a more convincing explanation than oxygen deprivation. But those conditions exist at low altitudes, too. And our common sense runs up against the numbers crunched by those 17 teams of researchers.

One might suppose that suicide and overdose death rates would be correlated. The distinction between the two calamities isnt always clear, after all, and both are termed deaths of despair. But thats not what the statistics show. The suicide hot spots of the northern Rocky Mountains have some of the lowest overdose rates, according to the CDC.

Only one state can be found in the top 10 for both: West Virginia, which ranks #1 for overdoses and #10 for suicides. New Mexico is the only other state to come close, at #12 and #4, respectively. Those numbers suggest different factors are at work in the two categories of tragedy.

Car crash deaths and homicide, by contrast, rise and fall in tandem. Six of the states in the top 10 for motor vehicle crash deaths also appear in the top 10 for homicide. New Mexico is one of the six. (Im using figures from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Center for Health Statistics.)

Long trips at high speed across wide open spaces contribute to traffic deaths, of course. Wyoming and Montana are top-5 traffic death states based on population but drop down significantly when rates are calculated in terms of miles driven. Unfortunately, New Mexico is #6 by both calculations.

The states with the worst records for traffic deaths are heavily concentrated in the South. Eight states of the former Confederacy are among the 15 worst states for car crash fatalities (measured by population). The only ex-Confederate states outside the top 15 are North Carolina, Texas and Virginia. And of them, only Virginia has a rate below the national average. Traffic deaths, it turns out, are a Southern specialty, like grits.

A number of states  Hawaii, Utah, Idaho, all of New England  have homicide rates comparable to those found in our fellow former English colonies: Canada (1.97 per 100,000), New Zealand (2.63), Australia (0.87). Ive taken those international figures from Our World in Data.

But the 2020 homicide rates for the 11 states of the ex-Confederacy range from a low of 6.4 (Virginia again) to the blood-drenched extreme of 20.5 reached by Mississippi. Louisiana is only a step behind at 19.9. If those two states were independent nations, they would rank among the most violent in the world.

New Mexico slots in at 10.8, just ahead of Georgia.

Public discourse about crime  and about traffic deaths  tends to ignore the Southern concentration. But, as well see in the next column, those striking geographical disparities have persisted for a half century and longer. In those disparities can be found an important clue as to the real root causes of crime.

Joel Jacobsen is an author who recently retired from a 29-year legal career. If there are topics you would like to see covered in future columns, please write him at legal.column.tips@gmail.com>href=http://legal.column.tip>legal.column.tips@gmail.com
SANTA FE NATIONAL FOREST  Hiking through the woods last week, a group of ecologists and forest managers stopped repeatedly to point out mountainsides dotted with towering, healthy trees.

And they shared a message many New Mexicans arent eager to hear: Fire  in the right circumstances  is vital for a thriving forest.

The group pitched the benefits of prescribed burns while leading a short hike near the Black Canyon Campground just east of Santa Fe, highlighting forested areas that had benefited from past burns carried out safely.

The tour  organized by members of Greater Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition  follows the devastating 2022 fire season, when two prescribed burns started by the U.S. Forest Service grew out of control and merged into the largest wildfire in New Mexicos recorded history.

The Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire ultimately burned 534 square miles of wilderness and private land; destroyed 900 structures, including hundreds of homes, and forced tens of thousands of people to flee. A year later, residents are still bracing for floods and looking out at mountains filled with blackened trees.

Anger at the federal government runs deep.

But the fireshed coalition is encouraging New Mexicans to think of prescribed burns as part of the strategy for limiting the severity of future wildfires. After a nationwide pause for 90 days last year, the Forest Service has resumed its prescribed fire program.

As he walked in the forest this week, Wildland Superintendent Nathan Miller of the city of Santa Fe Fire Department, said its 100% safer for firefighters to battle a wildfire in an area thats been treated previously with a prescribed burn.

Id say keep an open mind, he said of New Mexicans anxiety about prescribed burns. Its not only better for the public, its also better for firefighter safety. Its better for restoration after the fire, to have a healthier forest.

Ellis Margolis, a research ecologist for the U.S. Geological Survey, said fire-suppression efforts stretching back 130 years or more have deprived forests of a natural process they need to thrive.

We, as humans, took fire out of these systems  just like taking water out of a river, he told the Journal as he hiked through the Santa Fe National Forest.

Before human intervention, Margolis said, it was natural for New Mexicos forests to endure low-level fires every few years. Flames, he said, cleared out smaller trees and brush without climbing into the forest canopy and destroying the older, taller ponderosa pines.

Weve got to figure out how to live with fire again, Margolis said. Weve stopped it, and now were paying the consequences with these big, massive fires.

But the value of prescribed burns is a tough sell in a state where residents have endured massive fires that began as controlled burns.

Anna Hansen, chairwoman of the Santa Fe County Commission, said she routinely hears from constituents who fear a prescribed burn will result in another wildfire  anxiety worsened by the experience of last years Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.

We all care about the forest, she said in a phone interview. We want it to be healthy.

Hansen isnt opposed to prescribed burns altogether, she said, but forest managers should limit their scale and seek out alternatives.

I want people to recognize that there are many ways to solve this problem, she said. Theres not just one answer.

Sandy Hurlocker, a retired Forest Service ranger, now lives in Los Alamos, where landscapes that once held forests are empty following the disastrous Cerro Grande Fire of 2000. It started as a controlled burn.

Im reminded every day of what fire can do in a forested environment, he said of living in Los Alamos. There is no forest.

Even so, he said, he supports prescribed burns as a strategy for reducing the risk of catastrophic fires.

Mistakes make a lasting public impression, Hurlocker said, but plenty of prescribed burns have helped limit the spread of wildfires and made forests more resilient without attracting much attention.

Craig Allen, an adjunct professor at the University of New Mexico Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, described it as a classic Catch-22.

Any fire  prescribed or not  creates risk, he said, but its more dangerous to leave overgrown forests alone, accumulating fuel.

It is not the lowest risk thing to do nothing, at this point, Allen said.
Rebate tips for low-income taxpayers

BY NOW most N.M. taxpayers are aware of the rebates that went into effect in 2022 and 2023. However, many may not be aware of the enhancements to the Low Income Comprehensive Tax Rebate (rebate) that went into effect in 2021. Prior to 2021, if a taxpayer had modified adjusted gross income of $22,000 or less, they could be eligible for this rebate.

Effective with the 2021 tax year, this ceiling was raised to $36,000. In addition, the amount of the credit was increased. For example, a single eligible taxpayer, 65 or older, with modified adjusted gross income of $20,000 could receive a rebate in 2020 of $40. For 2021 that amount was increased to $140. Taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is over $22,000 but under the new ceiling of $36,000 may not be aware of the enhancements and conclude they are not eligible for the rebate. The general qualifications for the rebate and the items that must be included in modified adjusted gross income can be found in the instructions for the PIT- RC form on the N.M. Tax and Revenue website.

Michael Winter, Albuquerque

NM needs better than FEMA response

THE JOURNALS front-page article of April 25 was hard to read. FEMAs failure to adequately respond to citizens of Mora and San Miguel counties after the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire breaks my heart. Both wasted effort and crucial time mocking the real needs and understanding of the resources our neighbors require. Federal responses to western wildfires are founded in ignorance and assumption of superior knowledge that ignore local wisdom and community history. New Mexicans did not create the wildfires nor the destruction, but we are suffering the results of federal arrogance.

New Mexicans now know we cannot rely on assistance that requires following the one-size-fits-all rules and inflexibility of federal procedures. So, we need to create programs we can rely upon within our own state when disaster strikes. Programs must answer to New Mexican conditions with flexibility in responding to our actual capabilities.

We have the money thanks to massive oil and gas revenues; we need a tool that can quickly get money to first responders, to communities for shelters and supplies as soon as disaster hits, to counties and towns dealing in the aftermath, and even after things have stabilized to our businesses to rebuild. New Mexico needs a public bank capable of being as flexible and resourceful as North Dakotas public bank has been in mitigating serious flooding and rebuilding wiped-out communities for over 100 years. No one can accuse North Dakota of being a radical or progressive state; creating a bank owned by New Mexico to serve New Mexicos people is not a radical idea. Creating a truly useful economic tool for coping with changing economic and climate needs is a sound strategy for our Legislature to pursue.

Sarah Manning, Albuquerque
It seems like we have entered a new political landscape. Our governor, who has been considered a climate-change leader, just vetoed most of the climate change legislation passed by our House and Senate this session. And she did so with very little explanation, suggesting these bills were not sustainable. Most of us, in contrast, understand the status quo is not sustainable.

In particular it is hard to comprehend why she vetoed the geothermal bill. The Geothermal Resources Development Act passed the House 37-0 and the Senate 63-3. It is difficult to imagine a more popular and essential initiative. The bill expanded the duties of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD) to promote geothermal and would have provided grants and loans for geothermal research and development. This type of enabling legislation is important to help our state and the emerging industry secure federal funds. If this act had not been vetoed, EMNRD planned to apply for federal funding to jump-start this industry in New Mexico, some $600 million of which is currently available.

The Senate sponsor of the Act, Sen. Gerald Ortiz y Pino, D-Albuquerque, has stated, we happen to be positioned wonderfully because we have the petroleum and natural gas industry whove developed techniques for drilling to the depths that are required to reach rocks hot enough to generate electricity. Utilizing the skill of the petroleum industry, we think we have great opportunities in New Mexico.

We are lucky. New Mexico has geothermal resources  the fifth-largest reserve in the country. Once developed they can replace coal and gas electrical generation. The technology now exists for drilling deep into our underground hotrock formations. The Canadian company Eavor Inc. drilled an 18,000-foot well bore in southwest New Mexico last year. Think about it  that is a borehole over 3 1/2 miles deep! Our subsurface hot-rock formations are enormous. And its all clean, renewable energy.

So why was this bill vetoed? It was a modest bill. It would have provided $25 million in state money for research and development projects and about $10 million annually for tax incentives. That is a nano-drop in the bucket of New Mexicos annual budget. This was a no-brainer bill that the governors staff apparently said the governor was totally on board for. But then it was surprisingly vetoed. The governors rationale for the veto does not hold. What happened?

I asked Ortiz y Pino if he knew why it was vetoed. He was as baffled as the rest of us. He said he plans to meet with the governors representative as soon as she is available to find out how to proceed.

Could the governor have made a mistake in the last-minute flurry of approving legislation? I was told by good sources this governor does not make mistakes. So why the veto? In a press conference after the vetoes she implied more is coming in the environmental space. It better be. Just how does she think we will meet the goals of the Energy Transition Act of 2019 without geothermal? That 2019 act, which was one of the governors premier initiatives, requires half of our electricity come from renewable sources by 2030, 80% by 2040 and all by 2045. We arent even close.

I think it is time for our governor to share with her concerned citizenry just what she has in mind. Does she intend to call a special session on the environment and climate change to fix whatever needs fixing on these and other bills and finally get these climate measures passed and signed? Next year is only a 30-day session so not much will get done and delays are exponentially costly for this legislation. We want and need a large hunk of that $600 million to develop this new industry here. These are competitive funds, other states are moving fast, and we may be left in the dust.

If we act we could become a global leader in geothermal like Iceland. Iceland is on its way to carbon neutrality. As reported recently in New Science already 30% of Icelands electricity comes from geothermal and 90% of its homes and businesses are heated by geothermal. Iceland is betting on long-term price stability rather than price gouging by oil cartels.

The Legislature also has the power to override the governors veto during the next session. But the best outcome would be if the governor called a special session now on climate change. This could happen if enough of us let the governor know we want action and we want it now.

Judith Polich is a New Mexico resident and a climate change columnist. She can be reached at judith.polich@gmail.com.
One person was treated for smoke inhalation injuries after a fire at an Albuquerque apartment complex Sunday evening.

Firefighters were sent at about 8 p.m. to the Desert Park Apartments, 900 Valencia SE, for a fire in a second-story apartment.

The people who lived at the apartment werent at home at the time. No firefighters were injured, according to an Albuquerque Fire Rescue news release.

There were 40 firefighters who responded to the blaze, according to the release. The cause of the fire wasnt immediately known.
The day Christopher Nolan called Cillian Murphy about his new film, Oppenheimer, Murphy hung up the phone in disbelief.

The Irish actor, though a regular presence in Nolan films going back almost two decades, had always been a supporting player. This time Nolan wanted him to lead.

Filming occurred last year, much of it in Northern New Mexico.

Hes so understated and self-deprecating and, in his very English manner, just said, Listen, Ive written this script, its about Oppenheimer. Id like you to be my Oppenheimer,' Murphy, 46, told The Associated Press recently. It was a great day.

Murphy first met Nolan in 2003. He was brought in to screen test for Batman  not just the movie, the character. Murphy knew he wasnt right for the Dark Knight, but he wanted to meet the man whod directed Insomnia and Memento. They hit it off and Murphy got to tap into a sinister intensity to play the corrupt psychiatrist Dr. Crane/Scarecrow, who would go on to appear in all three films. Nolan would also call on Murphy to be the conflicted heir to a business empire in Inception and a traumatized soldier in Dunkirk.

We have this long-standing understanding and trust and shorthand and respect, Murphy said. It felt like the right time to take on a bigger responsibility. And it just so happened that it was a (expletive) huge one.

Soon after the phone call, Nolan flew to Dublin to meet Murphy to hand him a physical copy of the script, which he devoured right there in Nolans hotel room in September 2020. It was, he said, the best hed ever read.

Then the scale of it started to sink in.

This would be a film about the charismatic and controversial theoretical physicist who helped create the atomic bomb. Oppenheimer and his peers at Los Alamos would test it on July 16, 1945, not knowing what was going to happen. Then several weeks later the United States would drop those bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing tens of thousands of people and leaving many with lifelong injuries.

As Nolan said last week in Las Vegas, Like it or not J. Robert Oppenheimer is the most important person who ever lived.

Oppenheimer, which opens in theaters on July 21, features a starry cast including Emily Blunt as Oppenheimers wife Kitty, Matt Damon as Leslie Groves Jr., Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss, Gary Oldman as Harry S. Truman, and many more rounding out the pivotal players in and around this tense moment in history.

You realize this is a huge responsibility. He was complicated and contradictory and so iconic, Murphy said. But you know youre with one of the great directors of all time. I felt confident going into it with Chris. Hes had a profound impact on my life, creatively and professionally. Hes offered me very interesting roles over and Ive found all of them really challenging. And I just love being on his sets.

As with all Nolan endeavors, secrecy around Oppenheimer is vitally important. Murphy loves the old fashioned approach that builds interest and anticipation.

The difference with Oppenheimer and other Nolan originals, though, is that this is rooted in historical fact. You can read the book its based on, Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwins Pulitzer Prize-winning American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer. You can watch the 1981 documentary The Day After Trinity on The Criterion Channel.

The question will be how Chris presents it, Murphy said. I think people will be very surprised and wowed by what he does. Anything I say will just seem a bit lame as compared to seeing this in an IMAX theater.

The time for discussions will be after the movie comes out.

Theres an awful lot to talk about when we can talk freely, Murphy said with a smile.

He did offer up that they worked hard to get Oppenheimers look right, from the silhouette to the pipe to the porkpie hat. The man, he said, seemed aware of his own potential mythology. But, again, those conversations will have to wait.

Im really proud of the movie and Im really proud of what Chris has achieved. This was, for sure, a special one, certainly because of the history with me and Chris. We were not walking around the set high fiving, but it did feel special. Murphy said. Its an event every time he releases a film, and rightly so. Whether Im in them or not, I always go to see his movies.
DREXEL HILL, Pa. (AP)  In the hours before hes due at Upper Darby High School, senior Khalid Doulat has time to say prayers, help his mother or prepare for track practice.

Its a welcome shift from last year for him and thousands of students at the school, which pushed its start time back by more than two hours  from a 7:30 a.m. start time to 9:45 a.m. One goal for the change: to ease strains on students that were more visible than ever coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ill be honest, Ive been much happier in the mornings, Doulat said. Ive been more positive, and Ive come to school smiling more rather than, you know, grudging out of bed and stuff like that at 7:30.

The idea of later school start times, pushed by many over the years as a way to help adolescents get more sleep, is getting a new look as a way to address the mental health crisis affecting teens across the U.S.

For some schools, the pandemic allowed experimentation to try new schedules. Upper Darby, for one, initially considered later start times in 2019. Ultimately, it found a way to do it this year by using distance learning as a component of the school day.

As students first came back to in-person learning, many dealt with mental health struggles and behavioral issues, Upper Darby Superintendent Daniel McGarry said. Officials saw a breakdown in students respecting the authority of teachers in the classroom.

We had a lot of those things that we were facing and were still working our way through it; were in a much better place, McGarry said. I think our kids feel better. Theyre not 100% better. But, he said, much of the social anxiety students felt after being in online school has dissipated.

During the pandemic, soaring numbers of high school students expressed persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, with girls and LGBTQ+ youth reporting the highest levels of poor mental health and suicide attempts. It doesnt help that research suggests middle and high school students arent getting enough sleep.

These mental health challenges are already going to happen and then, with the absence of sleep, are much worse, said Orfeu Buxton, director of the Sleep, Health & Society Collaboratory at Penn State University. The same with decision making, suicidal ideation, those kinds of things.

The reasons why high schools start as early as they do  many begin their day before 7:30 a.m.  are lost to the sands of history, Buxton said. But now, he said, everything is baked into that: traffic light patterns, bus schedules and adults work.

Nationally, at least nine states are considering legislation related to school start times, up from four the previous year, according to the National Conference on State Legislatures. California in 2019 became the first and only state to dictate school start times.

Large school systems including Denver, Philadelphia and Anchorage, Alaska, have been looking into later start times.

It can require innovation to forge a new schedule.

At Upper Darby High, the school day technically still begins at 7:30 a.m., with students assigned coursework to be done remotely that ties into their lessons for the day. But they can use the early morning hours as they see fit  they can meet with teachers during office hours, sleep in or finish other homework. Ultimately, the work assigned for the early morning needs to be done, but when is up to students.

I think getting more sleep is definitely helping, Elise Olmstead, a junior. I would be more irritable throughout the day, especially later, because I have a lot of after-school things. I would just have a harder time getting through the day.

The school day still ends by 3 p.m.

Fatima Afrani, a freshman, said that when she gets home, shell usually relax, then help her mom or do homework.

If Im tired I go to sleep, which was not something I was able to do last year. Last year I just had to get my homework done because there wasnt an option of being able to do it later, she said. And so I liked that if I was tired, I could listen to my body and just let myself sleep.

Principal Matthew Alloway said educators have noticed fewer students sleeping in class. The new schedule also has allowed kids to go to school for exactly what they need, he said. About 400 of the schools 4,250 students attend only through virtual learning  an option it offered to compete with online schools.

Critics have argued students have less instruction time in the new schedule. The original 80-minute periods have been shortened, but Alloway said that its not as if lectures always took up the full 80 minutes.

It was sometimes a 60-minute concentrated instructional time. But then there was time to write. There was time to read. There was time to view a video, he said.

Other challenges wrought by the pandemic  teacher shortages, for one  have also benefitted from the schedule change, administrators said. Teachers can take care of themselves and their families in the morning. Administrators have more time to replace staffers who call out sick.

Doulat, the Upper Darby senior, said that even if students cant see the effects every day, theres been a big positive impact.

Its such little changes in our daily lives that we dont notice it, he added. But they slowly start building up, and we actually see the difference within our own lives.

___

Brooke Schultz 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.

___

The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Working as a unit clerk at a hospital in Austin, Texas, David Schultz was asked by an employee what he wanted to do when he grew up. Schultz was just a freshman at the University of Texas at Austin and he didnt know.

Thats when a coworker, who Schultz says was then a nursing executive, asked at that point in time if Id ever considered a masters (degree) in health care administration.

He hadnt considered it  and he wasnt exactly sure what working in health care administration entailed. But the question stayed with him, and he began to learn little by little what it meant to work in that field.

Three decades later, Schultz is now leading one of New Mexicos largest health care systems. In his role as president and CEO of Lovelace Health System, he oversees six hospitals, 33 health care clinics and seven outpatient therapy clinics. And he is leading a team in an entirely new environment.

Schultz, who began in his new role on April 17, said he knows there is work to be done. For example, recruiting more health care professionals, particularly physicians and nurses, is going to be a key point of his leadership. But so is making sure the values of the health system are aligned with those of the people it serves.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Lets start from the very beginning. Tell me where you were born and where you were raised.

I was born in Houston, raised just north of Dallas in a town called Plano, where I graduated high school. Then I went to the University of Texas in Austin for my undergraduate degree in economics.

Then you got your masters degree in health care administration from Trinity University? Tell me a little bit about that.

Part of the graduation process at Trinity is you do a years residency  administrative residency. I got to do that up in Tulsa, Oklahoma (at Hillcrest Medical Center) and then I graduated once the residency program was finished.

When and where did you get started in your career?

So it really started once I graduated from the masters program (at Trinity University). It started at Hillcrest in Tulsa. It was a great time for career growth and expansion because we purchased all of the assets from a for-profit company in eastern Oklahoma. We went from four hospitals to 13 within a years time after I graduated, and so I got a lot of exposure to a lot of different health care settings. It was very dynamic, very fast paced. And because of that, I got to go in-between facilities.

I worked at a childrens hospital for a couple of years. I worked for Hillcrest Medical Center, the main hospital there in Tulsa. I got to experience what it means to be a health care executive, not just a hospital administrator or a clinic administrator. I got to do a little bit of everything: managed care contracting, due diligence for acquisitions. Really, that dynamic environment is what made me fall in love with health care, because you could see how you can impact patients in a role like mine.

While Im not a direct caregiver, I can immediately see all the aspects of health care that can either create a healthier community or create barriers toward creating a healthy community. So it was just a great learning experience there.

Tell me about some other stops youve made along the way.

My career progression was interesting, because I was really looking for opportunities to learn how to be a better health care executive. So I went to Tyler, (Texas), which wasnt far from where my wife grew up, not far from where I grew up, actually. But it was actually not as dynamic as Tulsa (when I worked at Hillcrest).

I had an opportunity to learn in a different setting in Tucson, Arizona, where I was the administrator and COO of a 300-bed hospital there (Northwest Medical Center).  Now a company called Community Health Systems owns it. I went out there because I was told that the for-profits knew how to run better hospitals, and when you look at their metrics for growth and safety and quality, at least compared to where I was currently, that was proving to be true. I wanted to go learn from the for-profits on how to do that. I spent almost five years there.

I then had an opportunity to go up into the Pacific Northwest in Bellevue, Washington, to work for an independent hospital (called Overlake Medical Center). It was a privately held, independent hospital.  The community up in Bellevue is pretty dynamic and different from anywhere I had lived before. My wife was very interested in it. Our kids were still relatively young.  I was one of three corporate officers and you made all of the decisions along with your board on the future of that hospital and health care system. It was a learning experience unlike any other, I have to admit.

And again, my goal is to be a well-rounded health care executive. So to go into that environment was very unique. Theres not a lot of independent health systems around any longer. Certainly not as many as when I started my career.

You spent about seven years with CHI Franciscan Health and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.

So I left Overlake to join CHI Franciscan. It is now known as CommonSpirit Health. And that division of CommonSpirit Health is now known as Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Just because in that seven years we merged with a number of different organizations. But during my time there I actually started as a president of a hospital that had been independent and was transitioning into the system structure, and since I had worked for both independents and systems, I was uniquely qualified to take that role over.

Within the first year, my duties were expanded to include another hospital. And then my duties were expanded a little further to include service lines for our eight-hospital division within the state of Washington. At that point in time, I got to get intimately involved with our cardiac service line, our oncology service line or womens and childrens service line. And so it was really a great learning environment, and I was covering that territory around what we call the Puget Sound. I did that for seven years  great experience.

What attracted you to the role as president and CEO at Lovelace, and Albuquerque?

Well, I mean, quite frankly, New Mexico and Albuquerque, first and foremost, it was a region of the country that my wife and I were looking at joining. Again, having been in Arizona, I tend to like the sun even more than my wife. But certainly just the geography, everything that Albuquerque has to offer, was very attractive from just that perspective.

And then Ardent Health as a company  I know quite a few people that work for Ardent. Obviously, Ive worked for hospitals in my past that werent Ardent quite yet, but the people that are there Im still very familiar with.

I was aware of Lovelace when I was back in Texas, certainly in Arizona. It had a wonderful reputation. It was one of the first integrated health care systems in the country in a lot of ways with its health plans. It was very progressive. And so just knowing the history of Lovelace, combined with the other things, just led to a no-brainer for me.

What are your goals in leading this health system?

The ultimate goal is to create healthier communities. I mean, thats really what our jobs are to be and to do that in this environment, of course, you have to provide excellent patient care. So I have to make sure we have the resources to be able to do that. Thats one of our greatest opportunities.

I think we have an opportunity to improve our access. Certainly, that starts with recruitment. At this point in time, its been pretty evident both on the nursing side and the professional physician side. So working with the University of New Mexico  the medical school  our partnerships with them are certainly vitally important. 

And again, just overall to make sure we are providing health care in the settings that our patients and our communities need them. We know going forward that is going to be less and less in the hospitals. So we need to extend into what we call our ambulatory settings  making sure we provide easy access to patients where they can most easily access them, which is closer to home or if not at home.

More on David Schultz

PERSONAL: David Schultz, 52, born in Houston and raised in Plano; married to Becky Schultz, 52; father to Sydney Schultz, 25, and Braden Schultz, 21.

EDUCATION: Masters degree in health care administration from Trinity University, 1996; bachelors degree in economics from the University of Texas at Austin, 1993.

POSITIONS: President and CEO, Lovelace Health System, since April 2023; multiple executive level roles, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, 2014-2022; EVP and COO, Overlake Medical Center, 2007-2014; administrator and COO, Northwest Medical Center, 2003-2007; VP of professional services, East Texas Medical Center, 2000-2003; multiple roles, Hillcrest HealthCare System, 1995-2000.
Virgin Galactic is headed back to space this month with a six-person crew, marking its first flight to suborbit since company founder Sir Richard Branson flew from Spaceport America in southern New Mexico in July 2021.

Its the last flight planned by Virgin Galactic before launching its long-awaited commercial service, starting in late June, when a crew from the Italian Air Force will fly to space on the six-passenger VSS Unity spaceship to conduct research and training.

This months final test flight will include four Virgin Galactic team members seated in the passenger cabin, among them Native New Mexican Jamila Gilbert, a 34-year-old New Mexico State University graduate who grew up in Alamogordo and Las Cruces and joined Virgin Galactic in 2019, said Mike Moses, president of spaceline missions and safety.

Returning to space is what we have all worked toward, Moses said in a press release Monday morning announcing the flight. Our mission specialists were selected for their diverse expertise, and they couldnt be better suited to validate the astronaut training program and overall experience. After this flight we will begin flying our customers to space.

The upcoming test will be the first powered flight into suborbit since Branson flew in 2021. Following Bransons flight, the company entered an 18-month hiatus for maintenance upgrades and enhancements to the Unity spaceship and the VMS Eve mothership to improve vehicle durability and reliability before initiating tourist flights for paying passengers. Those modifications included construction of a reinforced pylon on the underbelly of the mothership where the Unity is attached at takeoff from the Spaceport America runway.

Under Virgin Galactics flight system, VMS Eve carries the spaceship to about 50,000 feet, at which point Unity breaks away from the mothership and fires up its rocket motors to shoot into suborbit, allowing passengers in the ships six-seat cabin to float for a few minutes in microgravity and view the Earths curvature before returning to the spaceport.

The company conducted a glide test in late April, whereby the Unity breaks away from Eve and glides back down to ground without igniting its motors. That provided critical performance metrics to validate ship enhancements, paving the way for this months powered flight to space, Moses said following last months glide flight.

The upcoming powered test aims to evaluate the overall passenger spaceflight experience from end-to-end and perform a final assessment of the full spaceflight system before commercial service begins, said company spokesman Jeff Michael.

Apart from Unitys pilot and co-pilot, four mission specialists were selected for their diverse expertise, each bringing a different skill set to validate the companys planned passenger training program and the flight experience itself, Michael said.

Jamila Gilbert, for example, is not an engineer like the other three mission specialists. Shes a linguistics, anthropology and studio arts graduate who previously conducted tourist walking tours for Visit Las Cruces, giving her a unique perspective similar to what customers will experience on future spaceflights.

Theyre diverse in regard to their individual points of view and disciplines, which allows them to see and experience things differently, Michael told the Journal. Jamila Gilbert most clearly represents our customers, most of whom are not engineers. Shes decidedly from the creative side.

Assuming all goes well, this months flight will mark the fifth time Unity has flown to space, although the company did conduct many other flight tests with Unity on at least 20 occasions.

On its prior suborbital flights, the company did fly research payloads for customers who paid for experiments in microgravity. But when the Italian Air Force boards Unity in late June, it will be the first time paying passengers will be seated in the cabin for a trip to space.

Tourist flights for customers, who pay $450,000 for a seat on Unity, are expected to begin this summer, Michael said.

The initial target is to fly once per month after our first commercial flight in late June, Michael said. Following each flight, theres a two-week period to analyze data, and then two more weeks to prepare the ship to fly again. You can set the flight calendar around that.

More than 800 passengers with reservations are now on the Virgin Galactic flight list, including many who have waited more than a decade to board the spaceship.
A man facing criminal charges in a crash that killed a 10-year-old girl and seriously injured her father will remain in jail while he awaits trial, a judge ordered Monday.

John Bearden, 37, is charged with vehicular homicide and aggravated driving while intoxicated in the death of Penny Pizarro, a fourth grader at The International School at Mesa del Sol.

Beardens attorney, James Newell, told prosecutors Monday he wants a speedy resolution of Beardens case.

We would like to enter into plea negotiations as soon as possible with the 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office, Newell said. And then we want a speedy trial as well.

Penny and her father, David Pizarro, were driving to school March 27 when a stolen state-owned vehicle slammed into the passenger side of their car at San Pedro and Bell SE.

Rescue personnel had to extricate the father and daughter from their car and both were transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Penny died of her injuries on April 16.

Pennys classmates held a fundraising event April 28 at their school for the Pizarro family. A GoFundMe campaign also has raised nearly $62,000 for the family.

Prosecutors allege that shortly before the crash, Bearden had stolen a state-owned Chevrolet Suburban from the state fairgrounds that had been left unlocked with keys in the ignition. The vehicle was found at the scene of the crash.

Bearden also faces charges of great bodily harm by vehicle for injuring David Pizarro, leaving the scene of an accident, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Bearden pleaded not guilty to the charges Monday when he appeared by video from the Metropolitan Detention Center. Bearden has remained at MDC since his March 28 arrest.

Prosecutors allege that after the crash, Bearden fled on foot through several backyards. Police found Bearden hiding in a shed in the 500 block of Dakota SE, Albuquerque police wrote in a criminal complaint filed in Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court.

At one point Bearden told police, I dont do drugs, drugs do me, the complaint said.

Bearden later said that he had relapsed on methamphetamine, according to the complaint.

He told police he became disoriented after stealing the state-owned vehicle and had difficulty finding his way out of the fairgrounds, the complaint said. He also told police that once he left the fairgrounds, he began driving fast through residential neighborhoods before crashing into a car, it said.

Earlier stories: 10-year-old girl dies weeks after stolen vehicle crash near Expo New Mexico

Remembering Penny: Classmates raise money to help the family of their friend killed in a car crash
Dozens of tractors and some trucks, many displaying American flags and some with signs reading No farmers, no food, no future and Save our farms, swarmed onto the grounds of the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District office on south Second Street at 10 a.m. Monday in a mechanized expression of farmers anger.

They came on John Deere, Case IH and New Holland tractors and Ram and GMC Sierra trucks, sweeping past MRGCD offices in protest over not enough irrigation water and what is perceived to be poor maintenance of irrigation ditches and a lack of response from Conservancy District officials.

This is about the mismanagement of our resources, said Mark Garcia, who farms with his family in Tome, about five miles northeast of Belen.

Garcia said farmers are getting water on a 21-day rotation, which is not enough in some cases.

Different crops have different needs, he said. In years past we got water by the second week in March. This year it was April 20 when it got to Tome. It seems like we are not getting the support of the MRGCD. We need to make these decisions ourselves.

The tractor demonstration preceded a regularly scheduled MRGCD meeting at 3 p.m. Monday during which water supply and water distribution was discussed at length.

The Conservancy District is responsible for drainage, irrigation and flood control for a 150-mile stretch between Cochiti Dam downstream to the Bosque del Apache Wildlife Refuge. MRGCD provides irrigation for about 60,000 acres, including six pueblos.

A severe water shortage made irrigation difficult last year, but this year farmers see the Rio Grande swollen with spring runoff water and wonder why things are not better.

Jason M. Casuga, MRGCD chief engineer, said a big reason is that New Mexico is part of the Rio Grande Compact, an agreement ratified in 1939 which is meant to ensure the equitable distribution of Rio Grande Basin water between Colorado, New Mexico and Texas.

We have a role to play in compact delivery, Casuga said. We owe water.

Casuga talked with more than 50 farmers who assembled in the MRGCD parking lot after leaving their tractors and trucks farther down Second Street.

Some were blunt about their displeasure and not mollified by explanations about the compact agreement.

You are sending our precious gold down to Texas, one yelled out.

You are making contributions to a compact that is killing farmers, another shouted.

The parking lot showdown ended by 11:30 a.m. so that the farmers mostly from south of Albuquerque, could get farm machinery home and then return for the Conservancy District meeting.

During that meeting, Matt Martinez, water distribution division manager for the conservancy district said he understood the farmers frustration at seeing lots of water in the river and not seeing it in the ditches. He said the 21-day rotation was never intended and was the result of miscommunication with MRGCD irrigation service officers. He said irrigation would now be on a supply on demand basis and that things would be better in May and June.

But farmers continued to vent their concerns and skepticism during the public-comment session regarding water distribution.

Jessica Richardson of Valencia County, who works in her familys agriculture business, demanded that farmers be included in the districts conversation about water delivery. She insisted on transparency and accountability and charged the district with having a bloated administration and doing sloppy work.

Trash and debris removed from ditches are left on ditch banks, creating fire danger and hazards for pets, she said. She also expressed doubt about promises that things will improve.

Well believe it when we see it, she said. Until then, we dont trust you.
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The middle of the famous Delevingne sisters dishes on her unusual fear of garment fasteners and confesses that she is 'hopeless' when dealing with technology.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Poppy Delevingne is afraid of buttons. The 36-year-old model hates having to deal with the garment fasteners but doesn't think her phobia is too unusual because it is shared by late Apple founder Steve Jobs.

"The last thing people would guess about me is that I have a phobia of buttons. Apparently Steve Jobs had the same problem so at least I'm in good company," she told Grazia magazine.

Poppy also confessed to being "hopeless" with technology and admitted her young niece is much better at handling her device. She said, "The last app I downloaded - I'm hopeless when it comes to tech, so it would be some weird unicorn game that my niece downloaded. He's a whizz at this kind of thing."

The British beauty was left starstruck when Jennifer Aniston followed her on Instagram but she's convinced "The Morning Show" actress did so by mistake. She said, "The last time I felt truly starstruck was when Jennifer Aniston followed me on Instagram. She's the coolest of the cool. It must have been a mistake."

When she isn't working, Poppy loves spending time with her sisters, Cara Delevingne and Chloe Delevingne. Asked the last time she laughed until she cried, she replied, "Every time I'm with my sisters. We whip ourselves up into a laughing frenzy. It's agony but also pure joy. When I'm with them I'm at my happiest."

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The newly-crowned King of England has reportedly toasted Prince Harry's birthday boy during a family gathering at the palace after coronation ceremony.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - King Charles reportedly gave his grandson Archie "wherever he was" a shout-out at a private family gathering after his coronation. The newly-crowned monarch, 74, has barely spent time with his son Prince Harry's boy since he was born and is said to have used a celebration at Buckingham Palace on Saturday, May 6 following him officially being made king to pay tribute to the youngster.

Even though most members of the royal family had "breathed a sigh of relief" Harry, 38, was not at the party, Charles appeared "genuinely quite disappointed" at his absence, according to Mail Online, with his son leaving the UK after the coronation in Westminster Abbey, London, to jet back to LA to mark Archie's fourth birthday.

The insider added Charles made a point of toasting "those that weren't there" and wished Archie a very happy birthday "wherever he was." They said, "It was apparently a very sweet moment."

Harry sat three rows back at his dad's coronation amid reports of his rift with the royal family including his older brother Prince William, 40, following the publication of his memoir "Spare" in January.

Mail Online said it was understood an invitation had been "politely extended" to Harry to join the family lunch at the Palace but he decided to return to California to celebrate Archie's birthday. His wife, Meghan Markle, 41, had stayed behind with their son and 22-month-old daughter Lilibet at the time of the coronation.

The Palace luncheon is also said to have seen William stand and congratulated his father on the occasion. It is thought that as well as the King, Queen and members of the Royal Family, others present included Camilla's close family - her sister Annabel, best friend, Lady Landsdowne, both of whom served as her attendants on the day, as well as her children, Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes, and grandchildren, Lola, Freddy, Eliza, Louis and Gus.

The Princess of Wales's family were also invited, with her parents Michael and Carole Middleton and siblings Pippa and James present. Harry arrived at Los Angeles International Airport at around 7.30 PM local time - 3.30 AM in the UK - after spending just 28 hours in the UK for his father's crowning.

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Among those enjoying the 'American Idol' judge's performance at the concert are Prince William and Kate Middleton's two eldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - King Charles III and other royal family members absolutely had a great time at the coronation concert. The King, his grandchildren Prince George and Princess Charlotte as well as Duchess of Edinburg Sophie, were spotted dancing along to Lionel Richie's song, "All Night Long".

The "American Idol" judge first kicked things off by performing "Easy (Like Sunday Morning)" at the Sunday, May 7 show. While the musician sit at the piano, the audience sang along as they waved their hands and lit up phones from side to side.

When it came to singing "All Night Long", King Charles, Prince George and Princess Charlotte were seen dancing while waving little union jack flags in excitement. Sophie, in the meantime, was spotted jamming out next to her husband Prince Edward and their 15-year-old son James, Earl of Wessex.

While Prince William and Kate Middleton's two eldest children attended the coronation concert, their youngest son Prince Louis didn't. The 5-year-old, however, stole the show during the Saturday ceremony as he was photographed repeatedly yawning and fidgeting in his seat.

Prince Louis was also pictured staring upwards at the ceiling during the ceremony. At one point, his sister Princess Charlotte, spoke to him, seemingly checking his behavior.

Internet users couldn't help but find Prince Louis' behavior cute. "Louis stealing the show with his yawning I love that kid!" one fan tweeted. "Prince Louis yawning through the whole thing is a real vibe," someone else added, while a third chimed in, "Prince Louis yawning is hilarious, we're all feeling it buddy."

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The Prince of Wales was cheered by a 20,000-strong crowd as he pays tribute to the late British monarch and grandmother in his speech at his father's coronation concert.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Prince William paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth at his dad's coronation concert. The Prince of Wales was cheered by a 20,000-strong crowd as he took to the stage on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 7, before saying he knew his grandmother, who died in September aged 96, was "up there, fondly keeping an eye on us".

Describing the newly-crowned king as his "Pa" after his coronation on Saturday, May 6, the 40-year-old royal also echoed his dads pledge to "serve" the public. His full speech, in which he joked about Lionel Richie's hit "All Night Long", is here.

William said, "Good evening, Your Majesties. Good evening, Windsor! A huge thank you to everyone for making this such a special evening. I want to say a few words about my father, and why I believe this weekend is so important. But don't worry, unlike Lionel, I won't go on all night long. As my grandmother said when she was crowned, coronations are a declaration of our hopes for the future. And I know she's up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. She would be a proud mother."

"For all that celebrations are magnificent, at the heart of the pageantry is a simple message: Service. My father's first words on entering Westminster Abbey yesterday were a pledge of service. It was a pledge to continue to serve. Because for over 50 years, in every corner of the U.K., across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others, both current and future generations, and those whose memory must not be neglected. Take the natural world. He warned us of the risks to our planet's health long before it was an everyday issue. Or the Prince's Trust," he continued.

The father of three added, "It has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realise their ambitions. And, perhaps most importantly of all, my father has always understood that people of all faiths, all backgrounds, and all communities, deserve to be celebrated and supported. Pa, we are all so proud of you. I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve, in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities. I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us, And tonight we celebrate you too. I commit myself to serve you all. King, Country and Commonwealth. God Save The King!"

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Meanwhile, the Duke of Sussex thankfully gets home in time for Archie's birthday as he rushed to go back to the U.S. after attending his father's coronation in London on Saturday, May 6.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Meghan Markle was chanelling her energy to hiking as she skipped King Charles' coronation on May 6. Over the weekend, the Duchess of Sussex was spotted hiking with some of her friends in California as her husband Prince Harry flew to London to attend the big event.

According to Page Six, Meghan had a peaceful 40-minute hike from her and Prince Harrys $15 million dollar home Sunday morning, May 8. While she was joined by longtime pals Markus Anderson and Heather Dorak, the "Suits" alum's children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, were nowhere to be seen during the outdoor adventure.

For the outing, Meghan looked casual in a navy blue loose-fitted top, brown hiking shoes and activewear bottoms, with a forest green jacket tied around her waist. The former actress appeared to try to stay incognito as she wore large-frame sunglasses, a scarf and a Panama hat.

Meanwhile, Harry thankfully got home in time for Archie's birthday as he rushed to go back to the U.S. after attending his father's coronation. According to Sky News, the Duke of Sussex landed back in Los Angeles at 7:30 P.M. local time on Saturday evening.

The royal, who used commercial flights for his trip, spent only 28 hours and 42 minutes in the U.K. After arriving on Friday, the younger brother of Prince William headed back to the Heathrow airport as he was seen getting in a car less than 20 minutes after the coronation service ended.

In other news, it seemed like the Sussexes' friend shaded the British royals in a birthday post for Archie. Prince Harry and Meghan's pal Misan Harriman took to his social media account to wish Archie a happy birthday as he turned 4 on Saturday, the same day when his grandfather King Charles was officially crowned as King.

In an Instagram post, Misan posted a screenshot of baby Archie touching a photo of his late grandmother, Princess Diana. Captioning the picture, which was from Meghan and Harry's Netflix show "Harry & Meghan", Misan wrote, "Wishing you the happiest of birthdays Archie."

Many believed that the post served as a subtle diss at the royals as King Charles and Princess Diana ended their marriage in 1996 amid the monarch's affair with now-wife Queen Camilla. Many royalists remembered the late princess, who died in a car accident in 1997, on Saturday as she would have been crowned queen.

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The arrest arrives after Boosie shares on Instagram a picture of him getting linked up with fellow rapper Bully Three, who worked with the Baton Rouge spitter on a song called 'How You Wanna Play It?'

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Boosie Badazz's (Lil Boosie) time in San Diego was disrupted as he had a run-in with the law. The Baton Rouge spitter was reportedly arrested on gun charges while he was in town for a music video filming.

San Diego County Jail revealed that the star was booked on four charges. They included felon in possession of a firearm, concealed carry weapon in a vehicle, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person and unlisted owner of a registered firearm. He was eventually released on bond on Sunday afternoon, May 7.

The arrest arrived after Boosie shared a picture of him getting linked up with fellow rapper Bully Three, who worked with Boosie on a song called "How You Wanna Play It?". In the Friday post, the "Wipe Me Down" rhymer teased, "[fire emojis] wait till y'all hear this one."

The legal issue aside, Boosie recently talked about squishing his beef with T.I. "It just went like two bosses of handling it, man," Boosie revealed to VladTV. Referring to his kid Tootie and Tip's son King Harris, he said, "First of all, we got kids who love each other. First we wasn't agreeing and we was going back-and-forth and you know he spoke how he felt and I spoke how I felt. He felt me and I felt him. I gave him an apology."

"After we kept going back-and-forth, the things he was doing for me in my life at the time, I kinda felt bad," Boosie, who announced earlier this month that he's now cancer-free, went on to say of their feud, which stemmed from the Atlanta native's alleged snitching claims and the cancellation of a joint album.

He added, "I kinda felt bad he was doing some real s**t helping me in a lot of ways but I told him I still stand on what I stand on. When he explained it to me, we got by it. We got by like bosses supposed to get by. We ain't let the internet or none of that bring us out of character."

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India's Manipur violence death toll rises to 54

Xinhua) 13:17, May 08, 2023

Students rescued from the ongoing violence in Manipur arrive at Agartala, the capital city of India's northeastern state of Tripura, May 7, 2023. The death toll in the ongoing violence in India's northeastern state of Manipur rose to 54 on Saturday, according to the New Delhi-based Press Trust of India (PTI). (Str/Xinhua)

NEW DELHI, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in the ongoing violence in India's northeastern state of Manipur rose to 54 on Saturday, according to the New Delhi-based Press Trust of India (PTI).

The authorities are tightlipped over the death toll in the ongoing violence and have not issued any official statement.

On Thursday, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh admitted that "some precious lives were lost." However, Singh did not provide the death count in the violence.

Large-scale violence broke out in the state on Wednesday during a tribal protest demonstration over the inclusion of the non-tribal Meiteis community for a scheduled tribe status. The call for protest was given by the All Tribal Student Union Manipur (ATSUM).

Scheduled tribes in India are officially designated as disadvantaged socio-economic groups. They are given reservations in education and jobs with the aim to improve their lives.

Thousands of people took part in the rally during which violence broke out between tribals and non-tribals.

Reports said schools, houses, churches, vehicles and public properties were set ablaze in the state.

The authorities have deployed over 100 columns of army and paramilitary forces to restore peace. The government forces are carrying out flag marches, area domination and rescue operations to shift vulnerable people to army camps and temporary government accommodations.

According to the Indian army, until Friday evening they rescued 13,000 civilians and shifted them to temporary arrangements within military premises.

Reports said some shops reopened in Imphal on Saturday morning and cars were seen plying on roads.

Students rescued from the ongoing violence in Manipur arrive at Agartala, the capital city of India's northeastern state of Tripura, May 7, 2023. The death toll in the ongoing violence in India's northeastern state of Manipur rose to 54 on Saturday, according to the New Delhi-based Press Trust of India (PTI). (Str/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
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The 'Top Gun: Maverick' actor delivers his acceptance speech from a flying jet, while Pedro Pascal shows his support to striking writers as he accepts the Golden Popcorns for 'The Last of Us'.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Tom Cruise and Jenna Ortega were among winners at the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards, which was not held live due to the WGA strike. They took home one award each at the pre-taped ceremony which aired on Sunday night, May 7.

Cruise bagged a Golden Popcorn for Best Performance in a Movie Winner for his stunts in "Top Gun: Maverick". Sending a message from a flying jet, he credited his fans as his motivation to do the death-defying actions.

"Hi, everyone! Thank you so much for this award. I make these sails for you," he said from the plane. "I love you. I love entertaining you. You know how much you enjoy it. How about you appreciate it. There's just no better feeling."

The 60-year-old didn't forget to promote his upcoming movie as he continued, "And I hope you enjoy 'Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One'. It'll be coming out July. It is a wild ride. You have a wonderful summer." He concluded, "Thank you again for letting me entertain you. It's an absolute privilege. We'll see you at the movies."

Ortega, meanwhile, was awarded with Best Performance in a Show for her role on Netflix's series "Wednesday".

Leading in terms of number were "Scream VI" in the movie field and "The Last of Us" among all TV winners. The scary movie nabbed two awards, including the coveted Best Movie and Best Fight for Courteney Cox (Gale Weathers) vs Ghostface scene.

Speaking on behalf of the movie, Ghostface appeared in a video message and bragged about "the villain" coming "out on top." He said in the clip, "Here's a twist you didn't see coming. The villain comes out on top. To all the fans who voted, you finally answered my question."

Pedro Pascal also filmed a video message to thank fans for the three Golden Popcorns that the show received, for Best Show, Best Hero and Best Duo. "Thank you, MTV Movie & TV Awards. I am accepting these Golden Popcorns on behalf of 'The Last of Us' show creators Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann and our entire amazing cast and crew from the U.S. and from Canada, who worked tirelessly and passionately to make the show," he said while dressing casually in a yellow T-shirt. "They made it a family experience, one of the best experiences of my life."

The actor also showed his support for striking writers as he continued, "Craig and Neil can't be here. We are all thanking HBO, and Naughty Dog, and standing in solidarity with the WGA that is fighting very hard for fair wages. We thank you. We love you. I'm going to take these to bed with me."

Drew Barrymore won Best Host for her eponymous talk show despite stepping down as host for the MTV Movie & TV Awards in support of the writer strike. "Hello, hello. Thank you so much. I can't believe this. Thank you for letting me in, get eyeball to eyeball," she said in a video message which appeared to be filmed in a bathroom. "Thank you for this whole show, this whole world, being.... Thank you, thank you so much. Oh my goodness."

The actress-turned-TV host also gave a shout-out to her show's writers as saying, "And also, I want to thank Chelsea White, Cristina Kinon and Liz Koe, our amazing, amazing writers. And this is definitely for them and every single person who makes this show. There's no I in mine, just ours and we. Thank you from us and me."

Selena Gomez's new documentary "Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me" was named Best Music Documentary as Taylor Swift's "Carolina" from "Where the Crawdads Sing" was voted as Best Song. Other winners included "The Kardashians", Adam Sandler, Elizabeth Olsen, Jennifer Coolidge and "Vanderpump Rules" stars Ariana Madix, Katie Maloney, Scheana Shay and LaLa Kent.

The 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards was filmed at the Santa Monica Barker Hangar without red carpet and host. While pivoting away from a live event, the show presented new sneak peeks for upcoming movies such as "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" and "The Little Mermaid".

Full Winner List of the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards:

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The 46-year-old father of three's home was recently sold at auction after going into foreclosure before he took his own life on April 28 amid financial struggles.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Famous TikTok dad Bobby Moudy had just lost his house before suicide. Sharing details of the financial pressures that he was experiencing before his tragic death, a rep for Rankin County, Mississippi reveals that the Moudy home was recently sold at auction after going into foreclosure.

Making it more challenging for the grieving family, Bobby's wife Jennifer tells TMZ that she had no idea about the issues with the house. She adds that no one around her late husband had any idea he was struggling.

"This was not something that me or his friends and family were aware of. He had the personality to not want to burden others," Jenna says in a video, noting that even if someone had big smiles their face, they could be hiding mental issues. Of how the family is going through the tragedy, she shares, "Our church and our community have really embraced us. Just so many blessings."

Jennifer says the next steps will be grief counseling for both Jennifer and the couple's 3 kids, ages 10, 12 and 19. She says that despite the family's financial struggles, their daughter Kaytlin will still be able to go to college in the fall.

As for Bobby's popular TikTok account, Jennifer says she and Kaytlin will take it over in the near future with the same fun vibe. She also says that the account will be used to bring awareness to suicide and people who might be suffering in silence.

Bobby's death was confirmed through a video on Kaytlin's TikTok account earlier this month. "It is with great sadness that we share the tragic loss of Bobby Moudy," read a statement in the video. "Bobby was a loving husband, brother and friend. On April 28th, he was a victim of suicide."

"Bobby was full of life and laughs, but also weighed down by financial pressures," the statement continued. "His wife Jennifer and their three children are in emotional and financial crisis as he was their rock."

A GoFundMe page has been set up to benefit the Moudys. The fundraiser has raised $77,000 of its $100,000 goal after reaching its initial $75,000 goal.

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The 'Top Gun: Maverick' actor honors the newly-crowned king in a pre-taped video that sees him piloting his P-51 Mustang as he considers the British monarch his 'wingman.'

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Tom Cruise said he considered King Charles his "wingman" at the monarch's coronation concert. The 60-year-old "Top Gun: Maverick" actor appeared at the two-hour show on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle on Sunday, May 7, in a pre-recorded tape of him piloting his P-51 Mustang.

He said about 74-year-old Charles, who trained as an RAF pilot before joining the Royal Navy to fly helicopters and ending his military career in 1976, "Pilot to pilot. Your Majesty, you can be my wingman any time."

The concert also featured the first multi-location drone show, with 1,000 of the machines taking to the nation's skies. A Welsh Dragon made up of drones, spanning 140 meters, lit up the skies over Cardiff.

In a nod to Charles' passion for the environment, a watering can appeared to hover above the Eden Project's famous domes in Cornwall. Charles' love of the arts was also reflected in the show's huge range of acts and performances, from acts including Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That, while fashion designer Stella McCartney paid tribute to the royal for his decades of work highlighting environmental issues.

The show came after Charles said he was "deeply touched" by the celebration of his coronation. The monarch, who was crowned alongside his wife Camilla, 75, at Westminster Abbey, London, on Saturday, May 6, said on Sunday, May 7, hours ahead of his coronation concert via a Buckingham Palace spokesperson he and the new Queen had been "deeply touched by the events of yesterday."

The statement added, "Their Majesties were deeply touched by the events of yesterday and profoundly grateful both to all those who helped to make it such a glorious occasion - and to the very many who turned out to show their support in such numbers in London and further afield."

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Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog surprised crowds when they interrupted host Hugh Bonneville in a sketch during King Charles III's coronation concert on May 6.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton are said to have found it hilarious when the muppets "gatecrashed" King Charles' coronation concert. Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog surprised crowds when they interrupted host Hugh Bonneville in a sketch that came halfway through his presenting segment of the Sunday, May 7, night concert on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle/Lip reader Jacqui Press told MailOnline's Femail section.

According to the report, the Prince and Princess of Wales revelled in the muppets' gags, saying Kate told their children Prince George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, eight, "That's funny!"

The royal couple's youngest child, Prince Louis, five, stayed home as it was past his bedtime. Miss Piggy and Kermit were seen walking up to "Downton Abbey" star Hugh and told him they were looking for their seats, claiming they were expected in the royal box by "King Charlesy-warsley."

Miss Piggy was ecstatic to meet a "real lord" and suggested she could become his Lady. She then said she couldn't believe she didn't live in a castle, with Hugh calling her a "pig in a dress." Other much-loved characters who popped up during the show included "Winnie the Pooh and Piglet", who starred discussing The King's love of red squirrels in a cartoon.

The bear said, "Christopher Robin told me His Majesty loves red squirrels so much he sometimes gives them names and lets them into his house. I believe the squirrels are rather fond of His Majesty too". Other collaborations included Maestro Andrea Bocelli and Sir Bryn Terfel, who sang "You'll Never Walk Alone".

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While the 'Back to the Future' actor 'can't remember' all his exes, he has clear memory of meeting the late Princess of Wales at one of his movie premieres.

May 8, 2023

AceShowbiz - Michael J. Fox is unable to remember all the women he dated back in the 1980s. The "Back to the Future" star became one of the hottest young actors in Hollywood after shooting to fame, but he now struggles to recall his wild child youth - and has very few memories of all the partners he romanced back in the day.

"When I look at that period in the [documentary] it just seems crazy. Look at all the girls I dated. Some of them I can't even remember. I mean, I dated Susanna Hoffs from the Bangles, and I can't even remember it. But that's just an example. Stuff like that happened all the time," he told The Sunday Times when about the memories brought up in his Apple TV Plus documentary "Still".

Fox, 61, and Hoffs, 64, dated briefly back in 1986. The actor went on to marry his wife Tracy Pollan in 1988 while Hoffs tied the knot with moviemaker Jay Roach in 1993.

However, one woman Fox does remember from the 1980s is the late Diana, Princess of Wales - revealing he sat next to the royal at the premiere of his movie "Back to the Future" in 1985 but his clearest memory of the meeting is that he needed to go to the bathroom.

In the interview, Fox explained, "I sat next to Princess Diana during the world premiere of 'Back to the Future' and I had to pee. And that's all I remember."

"I had just been told a whole list of things that I could and couldn't do, like not speaking unless spoken to, and not standing unless she stands. And so I was thinking, 'What kind of math do I have to do to go to the bathroom?' I can't say, 'I've go to go to the loo!' So I sat there in pain for the whole time. And that was kind of the formula for that part of my life."

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The Stellantis Group continues to strengthen its India operations with the appointment of Aditya Jairaj as the Deputy Managing Director of Stellantis India, effective May 4. Jairaj will also lead the Jeep brands operations in the country.

Roland Bouchara, CEO & Managing Director, Stellantis India commented I would like to welcome Aditya on board the Stellantis India team. He brings a proven track record of value creation and has the experience and managerial skills which will strengthen our operations and help the company contribute to Stellantis Dare Forward 2030 plans for India and the region. He added The India strategy is a key pillar for the group as an important element of localization efforts in the region and transforming the mobility landscape in India through our two-pronged brand approach.

Aditya Jairaj has more than 17 years of experience in the automotive sector. Before joining Stellantis, he served as the Head, EV Strategy and Transformation for Nissan. He has a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University; a master's degree in engineering business management from University of Warwick; and an MBA from Northwestern University  Kellogg School of Management.
Snow Crash, the now-famous 1993 science-fiction novel that coined the term Metaverse, talks about the domination of a single enterprise named the Global Multimedia Protocols Group. In real life will we see such an entity (or entities) dominating the metaverse? Will big tech players like Google and Meta become gatekeepers of metaverse? Or can we expect a collaborative space with interoperability at its core? In this three-part series, Adgully attempts to find out the answers to these questions and more.

One may think that it may be too early to pose such questions about a concept that is still in its infancy. But, recently, the European Commission (EC), in its latest consultation on virtual worlds, expressed its concern that these tech giants could dominate the metaverse, leaving small-time players to fend for themselves.

The EU consultation paper raised the concern that there is a risk of having a small number of big players becoming future gatekeepers of virtual worlds, creating market entry barriers and shutting out EU startups and SMEs [small and medium-sized enterprises] from this emerging market.

Is the concern genuine or a misplaced worry?

This worry was also shared by Friedrich Wenzel Bulst and Sophie De Vinck, both from the Directorate-General for Competition at the EC, who wrote about the potential pitfalls of competition or dominance in the metaverse.

A metaverse gatekeeper could, for example, push users to adopt certain services or products by bundling them with must-have metaverse hardware or software. They could impose exorbitant prices for accessing the metaverse or some of their metaverse-based offerings. They could engage in exclusive deals with certain third-party providers of metaverse services, reducing consumer choice and limiting competitors access to their platform. They could also use their unique insights into user behaviour (on the basis of access to certain data) to reinforce their market power inside and outside the metaverse market(s), they wrote.

A genuine concern?

Most of the experts Adgully spoke to agree that the EU concern is genuine.

The European Commissions concern about online giants like Meta and Google dominating the metaverse raises eyebrows and invites scrutiny, says Aahan Dogra, Founder, NoCap Meta. These tech colossi, says Dogra, have a history of cornering markets, so the Commissions apprehensions hold water. However, he adds, the metaverse is still a nascent domain, presenting opportunities for scrappy start-ups and innovative local companies to challenge the Goliaths. As Zuckerberg mentioned, The metaverse is the next frontier, just like social networking was when we got started (Zuckerberg, 2021). In this digital odyssey, where theres a (digital) will, theres a (virtual) way!

There is a risk of having big players becoming future gatekeepers of virtual worlds, creating market entry barriers and shutting out EU startups and SMEs from this emerging market, said Sameer Dhanrajani, President, 3AI. With the EUs recent passing of the Digital Markets Act, internet companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta will be under greater scrutiny to prevent potential anti-competitive behaviour. Nevertheless, there is a growing concern that such trends could emerge in future incarnations of the digital economy. The commission had earlier passed a bill approving additional data controls that may call for smart contacts to have a kill switch to stop any activity. The bill didnt specifically target the crypto industry, rather its focus is on Internet of Things devices.

The possibility of large tech companies like Meta and Google dominating the metaverse and acting as gatekeepers is real, says Sumit Ghosh, CEO and Co-Founder, Chingari. These companies already have a sizable virtual presence, with their respective platforms Facebook and Google offering a wide range of services such as social networking, advertising, and search.

Overall, Ghosh says, the EC concern is genuine, and it demands attention from policymakers and regulators in order to ensure a level playing field for all players in the ever growing and evolving metaverse.

According to Ghosh, as the metaverse witnesses growing popularity and importance around the world, we will require some strong decentralized organisations to fight these companies and prevent them from exploiting their market power. They may also use their dominance to control access to users and their data, raising privacy and antitrust concerns. This is where decentralised companies/ startups like Chingari powered by GARI could be game changers, providing an alternative to the centralized gatekeepers, he says.

Agreeing with Ghosh, Anantha Krishnan, Founder, MOI, a context-aware P2P protocol, says that the concern voiced by the EC is greatly valid. As mega-firms with a plethora of resources and credible backing, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and the like have the scales titled towards them and have the capability to grab considerable market shares, leaving a few percentages for small-scale enterprises and startups. But being metaverse gatekeepers would not be completely possible though they could become the major players in this market, he says.

The level of innovation in metaverse tech is getting impressive by the day, owing to open source projects paving the way for new projects and the sheer passion and business-mindedness of developers and entrepreneurs. Any threat to this momentum is a point of concern to the overall ecosystem, opines Kaavya Prasad, Founder, Lumos Labs. According to her, big-tech companies like the MANGA (Meta, Amazon, Netflix, Google, Amazon) power bloc pose a significant blocker to the growth of indie projects and smaller-scale companies. With their financial resources and technological capabilities, larger tech companies hold an unfair advantage over indie projects and companies. Any internal policies within these organisations that only serve their own interests will definitely impact the overall innovation index of metaverse technology, she adds.

The responsibility, according to Kaavya Prasad, lies in the hands of regulators and policymakers, who can neutralise such inequitable actions by promoting fair competition and innovation. It all comes down to focussing on protecting the interests of all stakeholders in the metaverse. Additionally, the web3 sector has been a major player within the metaverse space and has been a promoter of openness and transparency. Given the large market share of web3 metaverse, dominance of web3 tech giants can be prevented as the adoption of web3 products and technology keeps expanding. The development of the metaverse is not an isolated activity but one that requires the participation of multiple stakeholders, including governments, businesses, and individuals, she points out.

However, we are hopeful that ethical practices will prevail among MANGA companies without the intervention of regulators and policy makers." Optimistically, if the tech giants are open to providing an inclusive platform to metaverse startups and solutions in the near future then we can hope for open platforms like AppStore and Playstore for individuals to participate equally in the metaverse sector." she adds.

When we talk about the metaverse, big-tech companies like Meta and Google without doubt have a leg up on the competition, opines Samir Asher, Founder and COO, Tonic Worldwide. They have infinite resources and a strong presence online and offline, which means they could potentially control access to the metaverse and set the rules for how things work. However, it is important to keep in mind that the metaverse notion is still in its early stages, and we dont really know how it will work in the future. In this brand-new digital landscape, there is plenty of room for new businesses to flourish and carve out their own niche. Only time will tell!

Role of regulatory bodies

With concerns about the potential dominance of big tech, regulatory bodies have a role to play in ensuring an open and accessible virtual economy and community development. The Web3 sector, restricted mainly to gaming, has led to the rapid expansion and adoption of metaverse and web3 technologies.

Anantha Krishnan points out that Metaverse as a technology has existed before and its growth has been primarily spearheaded by the innovators and startup sector. The gaming industry already has an immense head-start over these big-tech giants and has firms that are far more advanced and sophisticated. Gaming platforms such as Fortnite, Roblox, Decentraland, Sandbox, etc., have a vast user base, and these firms are in a comparatively early stage of their entry and experiments. Yet, the intervention of regulatory bodies could be the key to preventing an oligopoly, Krishnan adds.

Through standardised rules and procedures to ensure an open, accessible virtual economy and community development, entry into the metaverse should be easy. Another catalyst is the web3 sector which is currently thriving within the metaverse. The Web3 metaverse, majorly restricted to the gaming industry, has led to the rapid expansion and adoption of the metaverse and Web3 technologies. Digital assets and NFTs have been the stimulants to its increased popularity and growth through in-game digital rewards, assets, tokenized collectibles, exclusive NFTs, etc. They were also one of the chief tools used by the fashion industry to solidify their entry into the virtual world, full of youngsters, through NFT-ized products and virtual clothes, shoes, retail outlets, and so forth, he explains.

Since the metaverse presents an unparalleled opportunity for innovation and economic growth (until the next iteration) the European Commission has expressed concerns that current big tech will strengthen its hold as gatekeepers to these opportunities, says ReelStar Co-founder Navdeep Sharma. This parochial view is mirrored, around the world, by other perceived Digital Sovereignty holders. The fact is that the digital revolution, as currently epitomised by the metaverse, is truly global and only (begrudgingly) recognises current sovereign states when forced. The Big Tech company revenues are greater than the GDP of most countries. However, their reach, their pervasive presence in the worlds social and digital fabric, as well as economic strength is even greater, says Sharma.

According to him, the tech giants, by their very nature, are driving innovation, and their size and influence is a major factor enabling this innovation.

The EC, like other sovereign state bodies, has cause to be concerned that these tech giants will act as gatekeepers to these opportunities, not only at a cost to their ability to control the digital revolution but to their nation states market diversity and economic functioning and health. However, this concern is more of perspective than reality. The tech powerhouses have demonstrated monopolistic propensities; they wield significant power over digital markets that has and is often obtained through aggressive market strategies and acquisitions and inevitably, and such dominance can have damaging repercussions on other companies. In many ways, they simply mirror the past and present behaviour of nation states, he adds.

History, as has been shown far too often, repeats itself. Nations that were once powerhouses fell from that position. Companies that dominated a particular sector no longer exist or are a shadow of their former selves. The digital revolution, in its relatively short time, has also clearly followed this pattern.

Sharma feels that regulatory frameworks will, if approached from a perspective of restriction, have, in the longer term, little lasting effect. He stressed that the ECs focus should be on policies and guidelines that foster fair and inclusive virtual spaces, protection of individual rights and privacy in an environment of broad-based support not only for resources but also for international, entrepreneurial and collaborative culture and information sharing. An empowered, educated consumer is the best strategy for a metaverse that serves all, not just big tech, he says.

(Tomorrow - Part 2: Should there be country-specific laws to address the potential threat of big-tech monopoly?)
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has said that BJP's alliance with Shiv Sena will continue, and both the parties will contest the next Maharashtra assembly polls jointly. "Eknath Shinde will continue as Chief Minister", he added.

Piyush Goyal was replying to questions from Rajat Sharma in the show 'Aap Ki Adalat'. His reply comes in the wake of speculations that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar might break ranks and join BJP camp with his supporters.

Goyal said: "I want to make it clear that Eknath Shinde Ji is chief minister of Maharashtra, he is the leader of Shiv Sena. The coalition government of Shiv Sena-BJP is strongly serving the people of Maharashtra. Come and see the pace of development in Maharashtra. Work on Nagpur-Mumbai expressway is going on at super express speed, Metro lines are being set up, religious tourism spots are being development. Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis Ji are working jointly to serve the people. I want to tell you, Both Shinde and Fadnavis will jointly run the Shiv Sena-BJP government. It is a stable government, and under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi Ji, they will serve Maharashtra. We will sweep the next elections in Maharashtra. The people of the state were groaning when the Maha Vikas Aghadi government was in power."

Asked whether NCP leader Ajit Pawar will join BJP camp with his supporters, Piyush Goyal replied: " Yeh kamaal ki party hai. This is a party where the leader says, I am resigning or retiring. Then a charade is enacted (dhong racha jata hai). Then there is reconciliation, and the family members are appointed. Parties work for the nation only when they work on the basis of workers and their ability. These are dynastic (pariwaarwadi) parties, where the posts are kept reserved for family members. The people of India will reply to such dynasties. We need not worry, who is coming with us or not. Good people normally join our party."

Asked why 40 MLAs were 'stolen' when the MVA was in power in Maharashtra, Goyal replied: "We did not steal any MLA. If 40 out of 54 MLAs want that they need freedom from a corrupt and inefficient leadership, then the real Shiv Sena belongs to those 40 MLAs, and only a handful remained, which is not the real Sena. We did not steal. I think, the legislators who remained, have been stolen. (chura ke rakha gaya hai)."

On Karnataka elections

On Karnataka, Goyal was confident that BJP will retain power. He said, Congress has three claimants for the post of chief minister: Siddaramaiah, D.K. Shiv Kumar and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge himself.

Goyal said, "During Rahul Gandhi's 'Bharat Jodo Yatra', we were surprised why his yatra did not go through those states where elections were on. We were surprised about the secret behind this. Today, I see in Karnataka and I now understand the real reason. The reality is that,it was not 'Bharat Jodo Yatra', he was doing 'Party Jodo Yatra' in Karnataka. There are three claimants for the chief minister's post. Siddaramaiah is unwilling to leave his claim and wants to become CM again, D. K. Shiv Kumar does not want to leave his aspirations for CM post. Now their all-India president Mallikarjun Kharge has jumped in. He says, forget these two fighting among themselves. As Congress president, I am the most capable one for CM post. So that 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' was to bring unity among the three. The Yatra did not even enter Gujarat, where election was going on. In Karnataka, I do not find Rahul campaigning. I think their leaders have told him not to come, otherwise their margin of defeat will increase."

On Priyanka Gandhi's allegation that BJP "stole" our MLAs, when we had a government in Karnataka, Goyal replied: "Why do they give ticket to such people, why are waiting to be stolen? I mean, if Congress fields such candidates, the people of Karnataka should not elect such candidates as MLAs."

On Rahul Gandhi

Lashing out at Rahul Gandhi, Piyush Goyal said, "he lost his membership because of his anger. He should have respected the law. You defame the entire Modi OBC community, and then tell the court that you are not going to apologize. When the court is giving you opportunity to tender apology, he could have apologized and the matter could have ended there. You insult an entire OBC community, and then out of 'seenajori' (arrogance), you say I will not apologize. He not only insulted Modi, he insulted all those from that OBC community whose surname is Modi. The people of this country will never accept this."

Goyal said: "Recently, Azam Khan lost his membership. Whether it is Azam Khan, or Mukhtar Ansari or Rahul Gandhi, whosoever is convicted and sentenced, will lose membership as per law. I was surprised when Congress leader Pramod Tiwari, their Deputy Leader in Rajya Sabha, said in a TV interview that Gandhi family members have sacrificed their lives for the nation. The nation's law will prevail when somebody is convicted, but when one is sentenced, how can there be a separate law for Gandhi family? It smacks of the thinking, 'Me, myself, my party and my family'. The people of India have not forgotten when Congress party said, 'Indira is India'. Their thinking is, our family is foremost, and the people of India must remain at the back."

On Rahul Gandhi's allegation that BJP government's policies favour only 4 or 5 industrialists, Piyush Goyal replied: "I can confidently say, BJP is the only party which implements programmes without any partiality. Let a single industrialist come forward and say that he has got favours from this government or got contracts without due process and transparency."

On Rahul's allegation that Adani group got ports, airports, mines, power and other projects, Goyal replied: "The first port was given to Adani by Congress government. The huge solar project was given to Adani, with the Rajasthan chief minister sitting beside him. We never gave any land. Airport contracts were given through transparent bidding process. The company which gave the highest bid got the contracts."
As travel demand continues to increase in 2023, GrowthOps Asia was selected by Malaysia Airlines to relaunch its website malaysiaairlines.com. Built on the Adobe Experience Cloud, a leading Enterprise Customer Experience platform, GrowthOps also helped reimagine how customers engaged with the website across their travel-related needs.

The new website will progressively be rolled out to ultimately benefit customers from 17 countries and support 11 languages. Starting with Malaysia, which was launched on April 17th.

Malaysia Airlines' aim was to improve the overall digital customer journeyfrom the moment travellers visit the website to search for and book their tickets to experiencing a hassle-free online check-in on the day of their flight.

This new customer experience will be powered by the Adobe Experience Cloud, which has been a staple marketing technology platform for Malaysia Airlines for the past 10 years.

Main site improvements include:

Personalised content with the most relevant topics and destinations based on users past activities, such as completed bookings, destination search history, and other website activities

Fully responsive and fast loading website optimised to launch on any device

Improved search functionality and user-friendly navigation interface so users can find exactly what they are looking for

Embedded Adobe Analytics capabilities to improve how Malaysia Airlines marketing team reviews customer experience data to optimise browsing experience based on customer preferences and track marketing campaign effectiveness

In redesigning the website, GrowthOps also revamped pages containing marketing-related and promotional content to apprise visitors with interesting and engaging information about their destinations. The revamped website was inspired by the concept of "Windows of Hospitality, which embeds inspirational images of destinations combined with iconic Malaysian batik in the designs, reflecting the promise of experiencing Malaysian hospitality through travel.

Throughout this project, Malaysia Airlines and GrowthOps' joint goal had always been to advocate for experience driving the technologyinstead of the other way around. This ensures that the customer experience is at the heart of all that is implemented, and with this current partnership, the opportunity to get the experience right for Malaysia Airlines travellers powers the right solution implementation.

We are delighted that this critical piece of our digital transformation journey is now live for our customers to enjoy. One that is focused solely on improving the customer experience for travellers who are looking to explore the region and the world with our signature Malaysian Hospitality, says Clarence Lee, Group Chief Digital and Technology Officer of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG).

Through this initiative, GrowthOps has brought the right maturity in design, technology, and analytic capabilities to take our platform to the next level. We are expecting the same level of commitment during the course of our partnership.

Its wonderful to be a part of such an exciting project and to help improve travellers experience when visiting the Malaysia Airlines website. As a proud Malaysian working on one of the country's highest profile sites, this was a project that we had to deliver on-point without any corners cut, said Tng Boon Keong, Regional Head of Consulting of GrowthOps Asia. A travellers journey begins the moment they start searching for a destination, and thus, we wanted to provide the users of the website with a delightful, smooth and seamless experience in arranging one of the most integral aspects of a

triptheir flights.
Indian films have found both fans and revenues in China shores. China audiences are very seduced by Indian content. They respond to films in a way that is more passionate than local Indians. Both Indians and Chinese believe in the idea of family, we all work together as a family to become what we are. The whole thing about the family being a source of inspiration and encouragement is very Indian and very Chinese. Indian cinema gaining popularity across the world, particularly in China, which has a vast and growing film market. The films, which include popular Dangal, PK, Secret Superstar, Andhadhun, 3 Idiots, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan are helping to showcase the diversity and richness of Indian culture and society and bring our two countries closer together.

Chinese film producer and distributor Pablo Ren Baolu stated in FICCI Frames Event, Absolutely, as you may know, I do believe the content of India, storytelling, and acting style is particularly well suited for the Chinese market. We share a similar background and cultural heritage.

He further added, I plan to try to advertise many Indian cinema genres in China as well as through any other means possible, such as film festivals. There are several festivals and cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Hainan, and Fuju. Therefore, we are going to introduce several Hindi-language film genres in this festival first so that the public is familiar with them before we take them to the market for theatrical release.

Hope the Chinese audience will enjoy the unique stories, characters, and themes that Indian cinema has to offer and that we can continue to work together to create films that resonate with audiences around the world.
Pankaj Tripathi won millions of hearts as he revealed his first look as Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji for the biopic, Main ATAL Hoon. Recently, the actor shared another update on his social media hinting at the shoot commencement of the film.

Today, the makers officially announced the filming of Main ATAL Hoon. The movie will revolve around the life and political career of Indias beloved leader, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee who was not only a politician but also a poet, a gentleman and a statesman. Commencing the shoot in Mumbai, the team will have a long schedule of more than 45 days covering different parts of our country like Mumbai and Lucknow.

Getting a chance to play the role of our great leader, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an honour in itself. We went through rigorous reading sessions, to understand the dialect, his lifestyle and his vision for India. I feel elated today as we begin shooting for Main ATAL Hoon. Shares actor Pankaj Tripathi.

Director Ravi Jadhav added, I have seen Pankaj ji being super involved in the process of knowing and understanding Atal ji. I am sure no one else would have been a better fit than Pankaj Ji to essay such a proficient personality. Hoping to create the same magic with our film that Atal ji created with his life and his vision for our country.

Producer Vinod Bhanushali shares, Main ATAL Hoon is a special film. Everyone associated with the film is leaving no stone unturned for it to be one of the best experiences for our audiences. We went through a lot of research for right from the story, locations to looks for each of our character before coming on floors for the shoot of our film.

Producer Sandeep Singh shares, This is just the beginning of an incredible experience. With infinite meetings with the teams, hardwork of the entire crew and locking our incredible cast, I am happy to commence the shoot of our film, Main ATAL Hoon.

Helmed by National Award-Winning Director Ravi Jadhav, Main ATAL Hoon features Pankaj Tripathi as Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the three-time Prime Minister of our Country. The film is written by Rishi Virmani and Ravi Jadhav with music by Salim  Sulaiman and lyrics by Manoj Muntashir.

Main ATAL Hoon presented by Bhanushali Studios Limited and Legend Studios, is produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Sandeep Singh, Sam Khan & Kamlesh Bhanushali and co-produced by Bhavesh Bhanushali, Ishaan Dutta, Zeeshan Ahmad and Shivv Sharma.

The film will hit the theatres in December 2023.
For the first time ever, Thums Up, launches season one of Thums Up Toofani Biryani Hunt in association with Disney+ Hotstar. This exclusive content series features Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar and Telugu Anchor Ravi.

Thums Up and Biryani are both favourites in India, and the brand beautifully paired them together in the previous campaign that featured Shah Rukh Khan and Vijay Deverakonda. Now, Thums Up is taking the campaign to the next level with a web series in association with Disney+ Hotstar, that celebrates the iconic combination of Biryani and Thums Up. Shot in the heartland of Biryanis, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, the series brings six episodes on six iconic Biryani restaurants. From the spice and flavours of the biryani to the fizz of Thums Up, the series promises to be a treat for food lovers and Thums Up fans alike. Conceptualized and created by Disney+ Hotstar CreativeWorks, it also carries forward Disney+ Hotstars commitment to offering customized branded content solutions to brands, placing them in the hearts of their target audience.

Link to First episode: https://www.hotstar.com/in/ shows/thums-up-toofani- biryani-hunt/1260140705/the- hunt-begins-bawarchi-hotel- hyderabad/1260140707/watch? filters=content_type%3Depisode

Ranveer Brar the loved Indian celebrity chef teams up with the anchor of Telugu films Ravi, to bring out the Toofani Biryani series to thrill foodies across India through their unique duo.

Commenting on the new campaign, Tish Condeno, Senior Category Director, Sparkling Flavors, Coca-Cola India & Southwest Asia, said, "We are thrilled to launch our 'Thums Up Toofani Biryani Hunt' exclusive content series with Disney+ Hotstar, celebrating the iconic combination of Biryani and Thums Up. This is one of our biggest collaborations and marks our first foray into branded content. Additionally, we are elated to have onboarded celebrity chef Ranveer Brar and Telugu anchor/actor Ravi, who bring their culinary and onscreen charm to the campaign.

Speaking about the show, Disney+ Hotstar spokesperson said, Branded content over the years has served as a creative bridge for brands to connect with their intended audiences through targeted marketing initiatives, raising the bar for effective storytelling. With Thums Up Toofani Biryani Hunt, we are leveraging the power of Indias evergreen love for Biryani to take viewers on a savory journey with Thums Up.

Speaking on this fantastic concept, Celebrity Chef Ranveer Brar said, "Theres nothing quite like the delicious combination of spicy Biriyani and the refreshing kick of Thums Up. It's a match made in culinary heaven, and I am thrilled to be a part of this unique show that will take us on a journey through legendary biryani trails.

Expressing his excitement in being a part of the pathbreaking show, the anchor Ravi said, The combination of Thums Up and Biryani is truly unmatched. This web series is not just about the food, it's about the culture and stories behind each Biriyani. It will showcase Thums Up's ideal pairing with its bold and refreshing taste that complements the spicy and flavourful notes of biryani."

This homegrown brand is a remarkable illustration of how it showcases resilience and persistence living by its legacy and establishing itself as one of the leading sparkling brands across the country.
Mumbai-based integrated digital marketing agency Verve Media won the SEO mandate for Chokore, a design-led premium accessories brand. They create 100% silk premium accessories at affordable prices.

According to the mandate, Verve Media will create effective strategies to improve brand awareness through their SEO services. Integrating the right keywords, working on off-page and on-page SEO, quora and backlinks will be a part of this mandate. The agency aims to position Chokore on the top of search engines among its competitors in the next one year.

Talking about the win, Saad Merchant, Co-Founder at Verve Media, said, We are excited to work with Chokore to enhance its organic visibility and drive more traffic to its website. Our experience in the field of SEO makes us confident that our strategic approach will help the brand stand out in a highly competitive market. We look forward to delivering exceptional results 

Talking about the collaboration Akash Verma, Co-founder of Chokore, said, Happy to partner with Verve, we found them to have sharp insights on the business, coupled with an aggressive approach to build organic traffic. The team is enthusiastic and proactive. We look forward to a long relationship with them.

Being one of the leading integrated marketing agencies for the past six years, Verve Media has been successful in building an illustrious reputation for providing creative digital solutions to clients from diverse industries. They have catered to clients like Rummy Circle, Broker Network, HiCare, Shell, Truenorth, The International by Tunga, UNDP, Bigflex and NABFOUNDATION, among others.
The Delhi High Court on Monday questioned jail authorities over the recovery of four knives from Tihar prison premises where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death allegedly by inmates belonging to a rival gang and termed it as an unacceptable state of affairs.

The court asked why no preventive or remedial action was taken by authorities when the incident took place as the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in jail premises.

Justice Jasmeet Singh issued notice to the Director General of Prisons (Delhi), Delhi government, and Commissioner of Police on a petition filed by Tajpuriyas father and brother seeking an investigation by the CBI into the brutal murder inside Tihar Jail premises on May 2.

The petitioners, represented through senior advocate Maninder Singh, said they are DTC drivers and sought adequate security for themselves.

The senior lawyer argued that it was a case of connivance between the jail officials and the offending inmates who killed Tajpuriya as it could be seen in the video that no jail official intervened to save him. He said the deceased was earlier lodged in Rohini jail and was shifted to Tihar jail just 15 days before the incident.

The high court directed the Delhi Police to ensure the safety and security of both the petitioners and listed the matter for further hearing on May 25.

The judge watched the video in the court and said it was seen that Tajpuriya was taken out of his cell and stabbed to death.

The court said it was unable to comprehend why no action was taken by jail officials and sought to know if any of the officials have been suspended for the lapses.

This is totally an unacceptable state of affairs. The security of every prisoner is on the respondent. I am unable to gather what is happening here, the judge said.

The high court directed additional standing counsel Rahul Tyagi, representing the state, to file an affidavit within one week through the Director General of Prisons explaining how four knives were found in prison.

It also asked the jail superintendent concerned to be present in the court on the next date of hearing.

The affidavit shall also explain if the incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in Tihar jail premises, why no preventive/remedial action was taken by the respondents.

The affidavit shall indicate the responsibility and accountability of the jail officials responsible for the lapses, the judge said.

A CCTV video from Tihar jail which emerged on social media purportedly showed Tajpuriya being attacked in front of security personnel and also when they were carrying him away after he was stabbed.

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on May 2.

The accused attacked him for a second time when he was being carried away by security personnel, according to the footage.

In the footage, it appeared that the security personnel were mute spectators while the assailants kept repeatedly attacking the gangster.

According to jail officials, seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who was on duty at a Tihar prison cell when Tajpuriya was stabbed to death, have been suspended following the incident.

During the hearing, the counsel for the state and jail authorities submitted that it was a case of gang war and this was done by Tajpuriyas rival gangsters.

He said the case has been transferred to the Special Cell of Delhi Police for investigation and that the accused inmates had cut the bars of the prison cell.

To this, the judge said, Should I record that you (jail officials) are not responsible and prisoners are free to cut the jail bars? This is unacceptable.
This is a post where some of you will say, "What does THAT have to do with autism?" Everything has to do with autism, because our children, tots to teens to adults are members of an ever declining society. I am NOT saying I think the shooters are autistic. But clearly there is something very wrong happening in our society.



Many years ago, when neurodiversity was growing at an alarming clip, I started to think, "It's as if we are intentionally creating autistic males." I didn't mean the actual epidemic. I meant the cleaving to the idea of self-diagnosis for troubled males. This weekend was another bloodbath of violence, with a 33 year old male shooting innocent people at an Outlet Mall in Texas. He is 33 years old. Which brings me to the video below. Please watch this 10 minutes on the radical shift that have affected males. I know it seemsoff topic for AofA. Id value the thoughts of our smart readers.



I listen to Michael Smerconish on Sirius POTUS (Politics Of the United States) channel daily. I started listening to him more than 25 years ago when I lived in his hometown of Doylestown, Pennsylvania. He's straight down the middle. He talks about our nation from all points of view. He also has a show on CNN on Saturday. He's been talking about the epidemic of loneliness in America. And how social media is proving to be devastating to our mental health. Recent focus has been on teen girls, whose body and face image have been forever crushed by filters, influencers and cosmetic surgery on demand. Smerconish has also been talking about males - and the demographic and social changes that have decimated a generation's formerly instinctive patterns.



I don't think we can talk about gun violence without also talking about changes at the deepest levels of humanity brought on by pharmaceutical use, drug use, social media, school changes, every warp and weave in the fabric of society today. Can we ever find safety again?



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The Vaccine Court 2.0: Revised and Updated: The Dark Truth of America's Vaccine Injury Compensation Program

By Wayne Rohde



The Vaccine Court looks at the mysterious and often unknown world of the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP), the only recourse for seeking compensation for those who have been injured by a vaccine. The NVICP, better known as the Vaccine Court, however, is not without controversy.



Established by Congress as a direct result of the passage of the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, the NVICP was supposed to offer a no-fault alternative to the traditional injury claims filed in state or federal courts and was to provide quick, efficient, and fair compensation for those who have been injured by vaccines. The reality, however, is that many cases take several years or longer to complete and require tremendous commitment from families already pushed to the brink of bankruptcy caring for the vaccine-injured family member, only to discover that the end result is manipulated by the government in defense of the US vaccine policy.
A career criminal wanted on drug charges in both Florida and Alabama held a woman hostage for more than five hours before a single shot from an Escambia County (Fla.) deputy ended the standoff.

Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons said during a Monday press conference the incident took place in the 4700 block of Helton Lane, northwest of Pensacola.

Deputies arrived at the scene shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday with multiple warrants in both Florida and Alabama for 53-year-old Ronnie Clarks arrest on methamphetamine-related charges. Simmons noted during the press conference Clark had 58 previous felony convictions and had served three different prison terms.

Clark was classified in Florida as a violent felony offender of special concern, Simmons said.

The deputies found Clark inside a tent with a woman and overheard what sounded like meth being smoked inside the tent. Once Clark became aware of the deputies presence, he held the woman at knifepoint and threatened to shoot deputies, as well as two bail bondsmen on the scene, initiating the five-hour standoff.

A perimeter was established as law enforcement worked to negotiate with Clark, but without success. Tear gas was also used, but failed to end the standoff, Simmons said.

Drone video footage Simmons played during the press conference shows Clark ultimately attempting to leave the scene, holding a knife to the womans throat as he made his way to his vehicle, with multiple Escambia County SWAT team members behind an adjacent sheriffs vehicle.

Clark and the hostage enter his vehicle, but another sheriffs vehicle is pulled up to prevent Clark from leaving the scene. One of the SWAT team members approaches Clarks vehicle, firing one shot and killing Clark.

Simmons said the bullet may have gone through Clark and struck the hostage. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Simmons had no information on her condition.

The sheriff also said they believed Clark had a gun and the two bail bondsmen said they believed Clark had a gun, as well. Simmons also said Clark was overheard making phone calls in which he indicated he had a firearm.

In a situation like this, we care about human life, Simmons said. We care more about the hostage than the hostage-taker. The deputy had an opportunity to end this, because we could not let that vehicle go.

Our criminal escalated these events, and it cost him his life.

As is protocol with all shootings involving law enforcement, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will investigate the incident.

He was wanted for the crimes he committed, he had over 50 felony convictions, he threatened our deputies, he threatened the bondsmen, he held a knife to the throat of a hostage and he tried to get away, Simmons said.

If you do these type of things, youre not long for this world, quite honestly, Simmons added. You play this type of stupid game and you get what you get.
A married couple wanted in connection with the March 11 murder of man in Knoxville, Tenn., have been arrested in Mobile, the Mobile County Sheriffs Office announced Monday.

Ronald Rogers, 26, and Carissa Rogers, 29, both of Knoxville, are charged in the shooting death of Artimeyo Folks, who was found suffering from a gunshot wound outside a North Knoxville apartment complex March 11 and later died at University of Tennessee Medical Center, according to WVLT in Knoxville.

Monday morning, the Mobile County Sheriffs Office said an anonymous tip led deputies to a residence off Bennett Road. When they arrived, deputies saw the suspects leaving the scene in a vehicle.

A traffic stop was initiated on Grand Bay Wilmer Road. Once the identity of the two suspects was confirmed, they were taken into custody and transported to the Mobile Metro Jail, where they are held without bond pending an extradition hearing.

Knoxville police detectives are en route to interview the two suspects. Ronald Rogers is charged with second-degree murder, while Carissa Rogers is charged as an accessory, according to WVLT.
As incidents of gun violence increase in the United States, many citizens, activists and lawmakers across the country have called for a change in gun laws.

Alabamas political parties remain split over gun rights and gun control. While some lawmakers have introduced bills that limit gun access, others have responded by saying its not up to the legislature to reach the root cause of gun violence.

Some Democratic lawmakers have suggested tighter gun restrictions at or near schools, but gun rights groups like Bama Carry are expressing concerns. Some Republican-supported legislation includes a package of bills from state prosecutors that would increase penalties for convicted felons who possess guns.

Overall, Alabama is considering more than 20 bills, sponsored by Republicans and Democrats, that would impact access to firearms and potential penalties. See more coverage here.

Alabama is one of the states with the highest death rates related to gun violence in the United States, along with some of the weakest gun control.

In Alabama, as well as across the U.S., gun violence has risen to become the leading cause of death for children.

Recently, a mass shooting that killed four and injured 32 took place in Dadeville, Alabama at a Sweet 16 party.

The table below includes Alabama bills that pertain to gun control, regulation, safety or access. It will be updated as bills are introduced and move through the 2023 session.

How to use the table:

Colors in the table correspond to the most recent action on the bill.

Some bills have additional information or certain exceptions, which can be found by hovering over the bills description.

The bills are broken down into pages, which can be navigated at the bottom of the table. (Clicking on the corresponding arrow will navigate forward or backward).

The search bar at the top of the table can assist in finding specific bills using keywords. For example, searching a bill number, the name of a sponsor or a keyword like serial number will pull up any bills containing those words.

Link to text of bills included:

HB1 | HB12 | HB28 | HB34 | HB37 | HB42 | HB64 | HB123 | HB181 | HB191 | HB234 | HB288 | HB301 | HB341 | HB375 | HB380 | HB383 | HB384 | HB385 | HB386 | HB392 | HB451 | SB126 | SB143 | SB158 | SB206

How we made this table:

Using both the Alabama legislatures website and LegiScan, we searched the text of all bills containing the words gun or firearm. After pulling the bills, we read them to determine whether they would change existing policy relating to purchasing, possessing, owning or operating guns in Alabama. Bills that did not change such laws were excluded, and those left are bills that propose changes to existing gun laws.

What do the different bill statuses mean?

In Alabama, a bill is filed and given a number, then its introduced in its respective chamber (either the House or the Senate). After introduction, most bills are assigned to a committee, where they are discussed and will either be passed out of committee or die. Once theyve passed, they head back to the chamber they originated in, where they receive a second read. If a bill is reported favorably, its put on the regular calendar. Bills on the regular calendar are eligible for a third read and a vote. If they pass, they move on to the next chamber and repeat the process. Bills must be passed by both chambers and be signed by Gov. Kay Ivey in order to become law.

Read more about the legislative process here.

How can I be involved in the process?

If a committee chairman receives a written request, bills can get a public hearing in committee, where residents can come speak to lawmakers directly. Outside of public hearings, constituents can contact their lawmakers to share their thoughts on new policies.

You can find out who your lawmakers are using this map.

Once youve found their name, you can search them on Alabamas legislature website, where their profiles list their email addresses and phone numbers:

Read more about gun policy from AL.com:

After Nashville tragedy, will any gun bills be a priority for Alabama lawmakers?

Mobile group calls for action to stop gun violence, and transparency in police shooting

Alabama may punish parents who dont secure guns, allow children to take them to school

What Alabamas new constitutional carry law means.
Ider police arrested a man who they say attempted to break into a home and was held at gunpoint by the owner until officers arrived.

Ider Police Chief Stephen Malone said the incident happened Saturday at a home in the area of County Road 732.

A man told police he discovered a man entering a house on his property, who then went under the house for a short time to hide after hearing the owners approach.

Then after waiting, the would-be burglar fled into a nearby wooded area.

Malone said the owner then attempted to call police, when he encountered burglar approaching from the woods, now armed with a knife.

During the call to police, you could hear both the victim and suspect yelling at one another, the victim pleading for the suspect to drop the knife, Malone said.

According to the homeowner, the man went to the ground and acted as though he would give up, but then attempted to stand to his feet and brandished the knife again.

According to Malone, the owner then drew a gun and told the man he would shoot him if the suspect did not drop the knife. Police arrived later.

John Mitchell, 38, of Gaylesville, was taken into custody and charged with second degree burglary, menacing, first degree trespassing and third degree criminal mischief. He is being held on $20,000 bond in the DeKalb County Jail.

Malone said he was relieved that both men were unharmed and the only damage was to the home.

Im thankful that the victim exercised his second amendment right, Malone said. If not this incident could have had a tragic ending for both parties.

Henagar and Sylvania police, and the Dekalb County Sheriffs Office, all responded to the scene for assistance.
AL.com is one of five recipients nationwide of the 2023 Lipman Center grants to fund reporting on inequalities and misconduct in the American criminal justice system.

The grants are awarded each year by the Ira A. Lipman Center for Journalism and Civil and Human Rights and the Columbia Journalism School.

AL.com journalists John Archibald, Ivana Hrynkiw and Ramsey Archibald, working with investigative editor Challen Stephens, will use the $32,000 grant to fund reporting on the Alabama parole system, which does little to alleviate overcrowding in the states troubled prison system. The funding will cover costs for data acquisition, analysis, and visualization, additional staff, Freedom of Information Act requests, travel or other reporting needs.

Were grateful for the financial support and partnership, said Kelly Ann Scott, editor and vice president of Alabama Media Group. Local journalism is at the heart of American journalism  and this kind of support enables news organizations like ours to dive deep into an issue that matters here in Alabama.

The prisons and parole conversation in our state affects families, lives, policies and politics  were eager to tell that story.

Members of the grantee selection committee were Columbia Journalism School Dean Jelani Cobb; Nina Alvarez, CBS Assistant Professor of International Journalism; David Hajdu, Professor of Journalism; and Dolores Barclay, project manager of the Lipman Center and adjunct associate professor of journalism.

We are thrilled to support AL.coms timely and crucial investigation into a horrific injustice in our criminal justice system that needs to be told, said Cobb, dean of Columbia Journalism School and Henry Luce Professor of Journalism. AL.com has a proven record for its meticulous reporting and inspired writing, and we are excited to see the outcome of this project.

AL.com received a Lipman grant in 2021 that helped fund the reporting of Banking on Crime, a series that examines policing for profit and the criminalization of poverty in Alabama. The series includes AL.coms award-winning investigation of predatory policing in the small town of Brookside, reporting that freed people from jail and prompted Alabama legislators to pass new laws.

The other recipients of the 2023 Lipman grants are The California Newsroom; Mother Jones; and independent journalists Tasmiha Khan, and Daniel Moritz-Rabson with Lauren Gill.
A team of journalists from AL.com today won a Pulitzer Prize for their investigation of predatory policing in the small town of Brookside, reporting that freed people from jail and prompted Alabama legislators to pass new laws.

Reporters John Archibald, Ashley Remkus and Ramsey Archibald, and investigative editor Challen Stephens, won the Pulitzer Prize in Local Reporting.

Their work, which led to immediate and lasting changes, also won the George Polk Award for local reporting and the Hillman Prize for web journalism, among other honors.

Related: AL.coms Kyle Whitmire wins Pulitzer Prize in Commentary: Read the winning work

The reporting revealed how the police force in Brookside, a town of 1,253 people, used proceeds from fines for nefarious citations and arrests and forfeitures to bilk poor residents of thousands of dollars, increasing revenue by 640 percent over two years.

The police chief, his top lieutenant and more than half of the force resigned or were forced out within two weeks of AL.coms initial story. Two months later, the state legislature passed a law restricting Alabama towns from using revenues from fines and fees to supply more than 10 percent of their budgets.

Read the work here:

Sign up for the Worth Your Time newsletter: Get the best journalism happening in Alabama delivered straight to your inbox every week.

John Archibald, the lead reporter for the project, working with investigative reporter Ashley Remkus, data reporter Ramsey Archibald and investigative editor Challen Stephens, chronicled the rise of the Brookside Police Department and continued reporting through its downfall.

The power in this work is that it is done by a reporting team who lives here, understands Alabama and can report in a way that will power change here at home, said Kelly Scott, editor in chief and vice president of AL.com.

Thats why we do this work  the impact it has here. And that tremendous impact is what were most proud of with this reporting and series. This work has forever changed Alabama.

The work was supported by Ivana Hrynkiw, who led engagement efforts for AL.com, and former AL.com photographer Joe Songer, who took the photos.

The reporting on Brookside was part of a series, Banking on Crime, that examined policing for profit in Alabama. The series is a finalist in the multimedia category of the American Bar Associations Silver Gavel Awards and was named a finalist for the Knight Award for Public Service from the Online News Association. The series was supported by a grant from Columbia Universitys Ira A. Lipman Center for Journalism and Civil and Human Rights.

John Arcibald also won the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 2018 for his opinion columns. Challen Stephens and Ashley Remkus won the Pulitzer Prize for National Reporting in 2021 for work on the severity and prevalence of injuries from police K-9s, reporting done in collaboration with three other news outlets.
The driver in a deadly crash that killed 8 people in Brownsville, Texas, has been charged with manslaughter, police said Monday.

Authorities believe driver George Alvarez, 34, lost control after running a red light Sunday morning and plowed into a crowd of Venezuelans outside a migrant center.

The police chief said Alvarez was charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said the SUV ran up the curb, flipped and continued moving for about 200 feet (60 meters). Some people walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet (9 meters) from the main group were also hit, Maldonado said. Witnesses detained the driver as he tried to run away and held him until police arrived, he said.

Before the collision, the Range Rover ran a traffic light about 100 feet (30 meters) away, said Maldonado, who reviewed the shelters surveillance video.

Victims struck by the vehicle were waiting for the bus to return to downtown Brownsville after spending the night at the overnight shelter, said Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.

Most of the victims were Venezuelan men, Maldonado said. Brownsville has seen a surge of Venezuelan migrants over the last two weeks for unclear reasons, authorities said. On Thursday, 4,000 of about 6,000 migrants in Border Patrol custody in Texas Rio Grande Valley were Venezuelan.

The driver was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained when the SUV rolled over, Sandoval said. There were no passengers in the SUV, Sandoval said Sunday afternoon.

Police retrieved a blood sample and sent it to a Texas Department of Public Safety lab to test for intoxicants.
Another round of strong to severe storms will be possible for Alabama tonight, according to forecasters.

However, this forecast comes with an asterisk. Storms arent a sure thing, but if they make it to Alabama they could pack a punch.

NOAAs Storm Prediction Center has a Level 1 out of 5 risk for severe weather in place for the northern third of Alabama for Monday. (See todays severe weather outlook map at the top of this post.)

A Level 1 risk is marginal, and means that isolated severe storms will be possible.

The strongest of those storms could produce wind gusts up to 60 mph and heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service.

The best chance for stronger storms isnt expected until later tonight -- from 9 p.m. onward, according to forecasters.

Severe storms arent a sure thing. The weather service said forecast models are suggesting a complex of storms -- referred to as a mesoscale convective system or MCS -- could develop to the northwest of Alabama later today and push into the state tonight. However, forecasters cautioned that the severe weather threat was conditional and depended on a lot of factors coming together just right to bring severe storms into the state.

Parts of Alabama were dealing with rain and storms on Monday morning, but there has been no severe weather so far today, although there were a few stronger storms overnight in north Alabama.

Rain and storms will be possible through the day today and into Tuesday, however after today there is not expected to be a severe weather threat for Alabama for the rest of the week, according to Storm Prediction Center forecasts.

Look for rain chances to decrease near the end of the week, and also get ready for warmer temperatures, with highs in the 90s possible over the weekend.
Voters in Madison on Tuesday will determine whether the city should change its form of government to a one thats rare in Alabama but most common across the country.

Proponents say the change to a council-manager format will allow Alabamas 10th-largest city to function more efficiently while opponents question the accountability and the changing structure of representation.

Related: Should Madison change its governing format when life is already good?

Related: Madison moves toward vote on proposed change to governing format

Voters will decide whether to make the mayor part of a seven-member city council and hire a city manager to run the day-to-day business of the city. If voters approve that change, the mayor and council will continue in their roles of setting the vision for Madison. The change will also include reducing the city council from seven districts to six through redistricting and the mayor being elected at-large to represent the city as a whole.

According to a 2019 study by the International City/County Management Association, council-manager governments make up 40 percent of local governments that represent at least 2,500 people. The study found that the mayor-councils style makes up 38 percent of governing formats.

Among the supporters for the change are councilwoman Maura Wroblewski and former councilmen Marc Jacobson and Mike Potter. Mayor Paul Finley said he is in favor of the issue going before the citizens in Madison but clarified that he has not taken a public position on how he will vote.

Randy Kelley, chair of the Alabama Democratic Party, and Benard Simelton, president of the Alabama NAACP have spoken against the change. The NAACP has announced it will provide rides to the polls.

In a sort of financial scoreboard, Dont Mess With Madison, a political action committee formed in opposition of the change, has outspent the PAC pushing the change, Madison Forward. Dont Mess With Madison has spent $7,232.53 in 2023 through May 1, according to campaign finance reports. Madison Forward has spent $5,357.19.

On the flip side, Madison Forward had $3,385 in cash on hand as of May 1 while Dont Mess With Madison had $2,534.50.

The path to Tuesdays referendum began in 2021 when Finley appointed a Governance Transition Committee  a group that came back with unanimous support for a government format change to council-manager. Madison Forward then led an effort to collect signatures on a petition, the final step needed to call for a referendum. In February, the probate judges in Madison and Limestone counties  the two counties that include parts of the city  certified the petitions.

To make her case for why the referendum should be approved, Terri Johnson of Madison Forward and a former Madison City Schools board president, recounted a recent conversation she said she had with Sam Gaston, the city manager in Mountain Brook, to distinguish between the roles of city manager and mayor. The Birmingham suburb is one of 14 cities in Alabama that have a council-manager format, according to Madison Forward.

Sam, what do you do every day? Johnson recalled asking. And he said, I do the nitty gritty stuff. I make sure that if theres some flooding in a subdivision, I get the engineer out there, I get public works out there. I take care of residents complaints about whats affecting their backyard. Im not making decisions on whether we allow an apartment complex to come into Madison. Im just making sure if it comes in, that it meets all the regulations and guidelines for the zoning and all that kind of stuff.

Under the current format, those tasks fall under the jurisdiction of the elected mayor  who delegates to city employees to handle those nitty gritty details. Opponents say that if the city manager is not effective, voters in Madison have no recourse as the city manager would remain in place even as elected leaders change. Only a majority of the city council could remove the city manager.

Modest and low-income areas and minorities are going to be impacted most adversely by eliminating one council district by installing zero accountability council-city manager as a form of government and by giving unchecked power to an unelected city manager, said Hanu Karlapalem, an opponent of the referendum and a former candidate for mayor in Madison.

And they wont be done with that. It will be followed with the redistricting, which is another serious problem in the making. Im voting no on Tuesday. The whole process is riddled with the lack of transparency and trust.

Karlapalem said a change from seven districts to six would diminish opportunities for minority representation on the council. Madisons population is 73.6 percent White while Black people make up the majority of the minority at 14 percent, according to the U.S. Census.

The seven council seats would continue to be elected by voters with the only change that one of the districts would be eliminated in favor of a city-wide district.

The city of Madison has a page on its website that provides information about the referendum.

Updated today, May 8, 2023, at 1:32 p.m. to clarify Finleys position on vote.

Read more:

Guest opinion: Vote no on Tuesday in Madison

Madison councilor: Why I support the city manager-mayor-council form of government
Selma University will receive a $750,00 grant from the National Parks Service to preserve Pollard Hall, a historic building on its campus.

The funding is part of a $9.7 million investment by NPS to preserve historic structures on the campuses of Americas Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

This funding will enable Selma University to make critical repairs to Pollard Hall to ensure that the rich legacy of this cherished institution lives on for generations, said U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell. Each year, Im proud to lead the effort in Congress to increase funding for the National Park Service Historic Preservation Civil Rights Grant Program to preserve Alabamas Civil Rights sites and HBCUs.

Built in 1916, Pollard Hall of Selma University, founded as the Alabama Baptist Normal and Theological School in 1878, served as an administrative center for visitors, a meeting place for major figures in Black education, such as Booker T. Washington, and a home for several university presidents.

The historic structures on Selma Universitys campus are dear to us and tell the story of a people who banded their meager resources to build a better life for themselves and their posterity, said Selma University President Dr. Stanford E. Angion. These structures must be preserved and shared with the public. I am tremendously grateful to Representative Terri Sewell and the National Park Service for helping us to move forward in our efforts to preserve the rich history of Pollard Hall.

Pollard Hall is a contributing resource to the proposed Selma University Historic District. This grant project will help repair the roof, HVAC system, and electrical and plumbing systems and install an elevator. The grant recipient will also contribute $496,414 in matching funds.

These grants enable historic educational institutions to preserve the story of African American education and the campuses where new experiences and stories continue to evolve today, said NPS Director Chuck Sams. Through the Historically Black Colleges and Universities grants program, the National Park Service supports our HBCUs in the preservation of their historic campus structures and history.

Since the 1990s, the National Park Service has awarded over $60 million in grants to over 80 of the remaining active HBCUs. These grants work to preserve the historic structures on HBCU campuses, many of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
We were sent this video that one TikTok user captured during the I-65 pursuit that ended at Exit 322(Falkville). Original details on the pursuit that began in Tennessee can be seen here: https://bit.ly/42x8Etx Posted by Morgan County Sheriff's Office on Monday, May 8, 2023

Multiple agencies were involved in a high speed chase that began in Tennessee and ended abruptly in Morgan County.

According to the Morgan County Sheriffs Office, the pursuit ended this morning on Interstate 65.

As of about 10 a.m., Morgan County deputies assisted other agencies with a pursuit down Interstate 65.

State Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency were also involved.

According to Morgan County, the driver wrecked, attempted to elude on foot, and is now in custody.

Authorities have not yet released the name of the driver, or other details of how the chase began.
Airbus and Alabama say they wont take an L as long as they think theres still a chance of getting a Y.

Thats Y as in the U.S. Air Forces KC-Y contract for a fleet of tankers, sometimes called bridge tankers because they fill in the gap between an earlier KC-X round of tankers being built by Boeing and a future generation of KC-Z tankers.

Initially, the KC-Y program promised to be a rematch of the heavyweight fight that took place a decade ago, when Airbus proposed to build tankers in Mobile. Boeing won that battle, but only after some ugly, bruising twists. This time around the battle lines were drawn through Mobile once again, with Airbus proposing to build a version of its A330 on a new line at the Brookley Aeroplex, then have it modified for tanker duty by Lockheed Martin in Georgia. This LMXT would be a U.S.-specific version of an A330-based tanker that is being used by governments in Europe and elsewhere.

But instead of building, the battle royale fizzled: By March 2022, the Air Force and the Pentagon were signaling that they liked the idea of dropping the KC-Y competition and just buying more Boeing tankers until the KC-Zs day comes along.

That has sat poorly with U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl and other Alabama officials, but momentum has seemed to continue shifting that way. In March 2023, Andrew Hunter, the Air Forces top official for weapons purchases, said the Air Force probably would buy only 75 new tankers, rather than the 160 or so envisioned for the KC-Y round, and that it likely would continue buying Boeing jets rather than give competitors a chance.

Once again that didnt go over well with Alabamas congressional delegation, including Carl and Sen. Tommy Tuberville. But a variety of defense industry news outlets reported that the Air Force was dropping the KC-Y, KC-Z approach altogether. Under its new approach, it will stay the course until it figures out what a proposed Next-Generation Air-Refueling System should look like.

On Monday, as Airbuss Mobile facility celebrated a landmark delivery to Delta Air Lines, Carl said he had not yet given up on KC-Y.

Hope is still alive, Carl said. You know, when youre talking about the tanker program, youre talking about a company that has delivered zero aircraft that actually work 100%. I think right now theyre up to 98%  Id hate to be the 2% that needed to get refueled over Europe right now. So I will never give up on the idea of a tanker coming back to Mobile. So well just keep fighting the fight.

Thats all were pushing for, thats all Ive ever pushed for, he said of the KC-Y competition. Give us a chance to bid it out, make it a fair bid. But what theyre going to do, the Air Force director has decided its his choice, and hes going to basically give them a blank check. So were working on some strategies through the Armed Services Committee and also Appropriations.

Jeff Knittel, chairman and CEO of Airbus Americas, likewise offered a never-say-die outlook.

Were in the process, he said. We have a terrific partner in Lockheed Martin  We think we have the future tanker.

The process is ongoing, and were hopeful that the RFI [a Request for Information, a preliminary step in a competition] is issued and the selection process shows how high-quality a tanker we have today, Knittel said.

Knittel said that just a few years ago, Airbus current presence in Mobile might have seemed like a far-fetched prediction.

I think the reality is, if you looked at where we are today on the commercial side, you would not have guessed we would have been where we are today, with over 300 commercial airplanes delivered, he said. If you look at the tanker, theres no reason we cant do a similar thing.










English News Chinese enterprise contributes to Tanzania port construction

Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 7 Mai 2023



It is reported that the second-phase project of the Dar es Salaam Port has commenced to further expand the port's handling capacity and better facilitate the economic development of East Africa. The project includes dredging, wreck salvage as well as procurement and installation of navigation equipment.

By Huang Peizhao, Shen Xiaoxiao, People's Daily The Dar es Salaam Port of Tanzania, located on the west coast of the Indian Ocean, handles more than 90 percent of the country's foreign trade. It also serves as a sea gate and economic channel for many countries in East Africa.



However, the busyness was once a burden for the port due to its aging facilities and narrow berths.



Thanks to an expansion project, the port has regained vitality and is now always bustling. Container tractors, cranes, forklifts and other port equipment are shuttling back and forth, fully-loaded vessels are arriving one after another, while cargo handling is in an orderly manner.



Over a year ago, seven berths of the port were upgraded by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) and put into operation, upon which the port's cargo handling capacity has been increased by 26 percent to about 17.65 million tons per year.



The upgrade has enabled large vessels with a load-carrying capacity of up to 70,000 tons to dock at the port, while the port could only accommodate vessels with a capacity of around 20,000 tons in the past.



Bian Liang, head of hydraulic engineering projects of CHEC in Tanzania, told People's Daily that the port has significantly improved its operational efficiency and cargo handling capacity since the upgraded berths were put into use.



The upgrade not only meets Tanzania's demand for cargo transport, but also promotes the foreign trade of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and other landlocked countries in Africa, Bian noted.



Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the expansion of the Dar es Salaam Port is of important significance for improving the port's comprehensive efficiency and promoting regional economic development. It will drive Tanzania's socio-economic development, and facilitate the foreign trade of landlocked countries in East Africa, she added.



Tanzanian newspaper The Citizen reported that the project has greatly expanded the cargo handling capacity of the port and consolidated the port's position as an important harbor in East Africa. It said the expansion will make positive contributions to economic and social development, and trained many professionals for the local community.



A Tanzanian woman surnamed Joyce had been working for the CHEC for five years. She was in charge of human resources for the expansion project of the Dar es Salaam Port.



During the years she worked on the project with her Chinese colleagues, she not only became a professional in human resources, but also gained a deeper understanding of port construction. Last year, Joyce was hired as a regular employee by the Tanzania Ports Authority due to her outstanding performance.



She said the infrastructure cooperation between Tanzania and China plays an important role in promoting the people-to-people bond between the two countries, adding that her working experience in CHEC is a valuable professional asset.



It is reported that the second-phase project of the Dar es Salaam Port has commenced to further expand the port's handling capacity and better facilitate the economic development of East Africa. The project includes dredging, wreck salvage as well as procurement and installation of navigation equipment.



Shan Jifeng, who heads the second-phase project, said that the heavy-duty self-propelled rake suction dredger Tong Xu independently designed and built by China has been employed for dredging this time, strictly following high-standard environmental protection measures. According to him, the work of the Chinese team has won high recognition from the Tanzanian side.

The expansion project is a miniature of China assisting Tanzania's infrastructure construction and socio-economic development.



Humphrey Moshi, director of the Center for Chinese Studies at the University of Dar es Salaam, noted that Tanzania's development couldn't be achieved without China's support.



Many modern infrastructure projects in Tanzania were built under China's assistance, and the Tanzania-China cooperation has become a powerful engine driving Tanzania's development, he explained.



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The Department of (in)Justice secured more J6 wrongthink convictions last week  this time netting four Americans for "seditious conspiracy" because they were not members of Black Lives Matter or Antifa. Regime thugs Merrick Garland, Christopher Wray, and Lisa Monaco (the titular heads of America's Gestapo forces) actually took a victory lap and stood solemnly together while warning Americans that this is what happens to those who dissent from the federal government's enforced truth. (If you squinted, you could almost see the Imperial Eagle flags draped behind them.)

Watching this bad theater play out as if it resembled anything close to real justice always feels like a gut punch. The federal government has spent the last two years lying about everything that happened on January 6, 2021. The liars transformed a million-person protest against election fraud into an "insurrection"  even though the people supposedly trying to "overthrow" the government arrived at the Capitol unarmed. The government alone killed Trump voters that day, and no protesters killed anyone, but the State-controlled corporate media continue to echo fake-president-but-real-liar Joe Biden's claims that "MAGA extremists" murdered ten or more police officers for fun. Undercover officers from numerous agencies worked not to keep the peace, but rather to spread mayhem, threaten the protesters' safety, and entrap otherwise law-abiding Americans. A complicit news media covered up the actions of known Antifa operatives who posed as Trump-supporters while breaking windows, tossing metal barricades, and egging the crowd on. And even though a masked, gloved, and hoodie-wearing suspect threatened both Republican and Democrat politicians with pipe bombs on January 6, billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of bureaucratic man-hours allocated for the sustained persecution of Trump-supporting patriots have somehow been insufficient for America's premier law enforcement agencies to track down the real mass casualty threat.

Judges, prosecutors, and Fascist Bureau of Investigation agents devoid of basic ethics have gone after thousands of Americans with no criminal records for minor offenses that never would have been pursued against Obama-supporting radicals. They have recommended charges for "obstructing an official proceeding," even though leftists obstruct official government proceedings every day throughout America without any consequence. They have spent more time and money hunting down patriotic grandmothers as "domestic terrorists" than worrying about actual terrorists who mean America real harm. And all these Gestapo agents intimidating and punishing Americans for their thoughts have done so while America's borders remain unprotected against unprecedented drug-smuggling, sex-trafficking, cartel murder, and other violent crime.

This wretched State kabuki theater has stunk to high heaven. Even though the majority of criminal charges against J6 defendants have been the kinds of simple trespass and vandalism crimes that are rarely pursued against Obama-Soros shock troops, political mercenaries posing as prosecutors and judges have spent the last two years in courtrooms lobbing rhetorical grenades like "treason," "sedition," "insurrection," "attack," "murder," and every other kind of underhanded verbal accusation with the intention of semantically transforming small infractions into variations of rebellion and mutiny. Few changes in venue have been granted, even though no ethical judge could reasonably believe that a Trump-supporting defendant would receive a fair trial in an area of the country that votes well over 90% for a Democrat  whether that candidate is incapacitated, a convicted criminal, an out-and-proud communist tyrant, or even dead. While actual murderers and rapists are released on bail before their trials, hundreds of J6 defendants have been locked away to perpetuate the government's absurd propaganda that these people are so dangerous that if we let them out before their rigged trials, they'd only try to overthrow the government once again!

Of course, as soon as too many sensible observers pointed out that the U.S. government has been treating "trespassers" as if they were Pablo Escobar, then the feds stepped up their efforts to go after groups like Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, whose organized clubs made it exceptionally easy for the DOJ's Lavrentiy Beria forced-confession-brigade to add an assortment of "conspiracy" charges to the J6 persecution mix. No need to prove actual "sedition" when "seditious conspiracy" sounds just as bad  if not worse  and requires barely anything more than two people engaging in unapproved political speech while knocking over a trash can. Heck, one of the defendants convicted for "seditious conspiracy" last week was not even in D.C. on January 6!

That's the beauty of fed persecution, though. First, those brownshirts find a thought they would like to punish; then they look for a pre-formed group that makes a "conspiracy" easy to prove; lastly, they look for a single act of vandalism that can be framed as "force." Voila: like one of Beria's convictions ready to go straight to the firing squad, you get prepackaged "seditious conspiracy" right out of the can. Ah, being a tyrant is easy-peasy in America today  especially when the State-directed media and a cabal of ideologically aligned prosecutors, judges, and juries all work together to pre-convict.

With a loosely-defined "conspiracy" being such an easy allegation to hang around someone's neck, now the stage is set to go after the unaccountable Deep State's number-one enemy: Donald Trump. After all, neither Trump nor his supporters thought the mass mail-in-ballot 2020 "selection" was a free or fair contest, so through the police State's transitive property of tyranny, he must be convicted of some kind of treasonous conspiracy, too! Did you know that federal agents could secretly conspire to infiltrate a crowd of the sitting president's supporters, stir up trouble, entrap thousands, and lay the whole mess at the feet of the very man whose office they betrayed?

This is what happens when nobody goes to prison for an Obama-ClintonIntelligence Community Russian collusion hoax that was nothing less than an attempted coup d'etat that tore the nation in two, further inflamed tensions between nuclear adversaries, and nearly succeeded in taking down a duly elected president. The same people who never suffered any consequences for that organized attack on America never thought twice about covering up Hunter Biden's laptop with more Intelligence Community disinformation, transforming the Department of Homeland Security into an unconstitutional organ for censoring Americans' free speech, or weaponizing the criminal "justice" system into an expedient catch-and-never-release monster for persecuting Trump and his voters. Maybe if Bill Barr had done anything other than eat ham sandwiches and shamelessly defend the rotten-to-its-core Justice Department, the American Gestapo would not operate so vilely or gleefully today.

The problem with Merrick Garland's gloating jubilee intended to impress upon the public that he and henchman Wray have been wickedly successful in using Trump-hating judges and juries to convict Trump-supporting defendants (prosecutors routinely reminded juries that it was Trump who was really on trial) is not just that his showboating has permanently destroyed Americans' residual faith in the criminal "justice" system. The bigger problem is that an evil Deep State that abuses the law to lock up its critics has now taken us down a path promising Americans no prospect for future reconciliation.

Benjamin Franklin's "Join, or Die" political cartoon was an effective call for colonial unity against a common foe. Today, the federal government says, "Join or die," and what it means is, "Do exactly what we say, or we will treat you as an enemy, lock you up, and throw away the key." With that kind of message being disseminated, there will be nothing to "join" because the United States will dissolve into warring parts. Political divisions will only worsen because those with power rub salt in open wounds. A house divided cannot stand  especially when the federal government chooses to burn the whole house down.

Image: kolyaeg via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
Two weeks ago, President Joe Biden announced that he is running for reelection in 2024, promising to finish the job. What exactly does he want to finish, other than American exceptionalism as we know it?

America is rapidly imploding on many fronts  financial and economic, cultural, safety, and our place in the world. Does finishing the job mean erasing every achievement of former President Donald Trump? Or is he completing former President Barack Obamas 2008 campaign promise, "We are five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America"?

Bidens presidency is actually Obamas third term, exactly as Obama described in a 2020 interview with Stephen Colbert, He joked that he would be willing to sit 'in my basement' and 'deliver the lines' to a 'frontman or frontwoman' with an earpiece.

Biden is the front man while Obama transforms the country. Biden is now expendable, having served his role. Can America even recover from Obamas third term? The left cant let Trump anywhere near the White House and need another leftist in office to cement Americas fundamental transformation.

Was Bidens reelection announcement serious or just a response to Robert F. Kennedy Jrs announced candidacy? Is Sleepy Joe a placeholder for someone else to jump into the race as the Democrat candidate?

On paper, this should be another Trump victory. On May 3, Rasmussen Reports presidential tracking poll of likely US voters noted that Trumps total approval was 50% compared to Bidens at 46%.

What about in a head-to-head matchup? The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone and online survey finds that, if the 2024 presidential election were between Biden and former President Donald Trump, 47% of Likely U.S. voters would vote for Trump, while 40% would vote for Biden.

Trump must first win the GOP nomination, which a year and a half before the election, is a longshot, despite the polls.

A recent CBS News/YouGov survey noted that among Republican primary voters, 58% plan on voting for Trump compared to 22% for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, almost a 3-fold difference. The few remaining contenders are in the low to mid-single digits.

YouTube screen grab

Polls arent elections and this is where Trumps challenges begin.

Can he even win the nomination? Expect an endless stream of lawsuits and indictments tying up Trump in depositions and a barrage of negative press from Big Tech and the corporate media. Expect far left judges to rule that Trump is ineligible to appear on the ballot, with Soros-funded state secretaries of state eager to keep his name off their state ballots.

These trials will all be timed to begin next year when primary season heats up. How can Trump run a campaign and hold rallies when he is tied up in depositions and court? There will be Fulton County, Alvin Bragg, and Special Counsel Jack Smith all planning their big trials for campaign season next year.

Expect scores of women to accuse Trump of rape, even if they have no recollection of when or where it happened. Trials will be held in Trump-hating NYC or other deep blue jurisdictions before leftist judges that will ensure that the trial is stacked against Trump. That will be enough for lawfare to ensnarl Trump as the Lilliputians tied down Gulliver.

Expect the weaponized judicial and intelligence agencies to manufacture scandals against Trump, as they did with Russian collusion and hide or ignore scandals of his opponents, as with Hunter Bidens laptop.

If Trump somehow prevails and wins the nomination, his troubles are far from over.

Without serious election reform, whats to stop a handful of swing states from stopping vote counting on Election Night at 10 PM, with Trump in the lead, only to resume in the morning, with his opponent now ahead? Whats to stop voting machine malfunctions in heavily GOP districts? Will there be scores of ballots from a single small apartment, with unverified signatures, and no chain of custody? Will a senile Biden again receive millions more votes than a far more popular candidate Obama?

Have any of the problems from the 2020 election been fixed? If not, then Trump could run against Mickey Mouse and lose, and Fox News will call the election midafternoon on Election Day with voting still going on. If the ruling class is selecting the president, rather than we the people electing our president, the result will be a foregone conclusion.

Who might Trumps general election opponent be? RFK Jr, while appealing to old-school traditional Democrats as he is the heir to Camelot and the only remaining serious politician from the most famous Democrat family, has his own uphill battle.

The Democrat establishment will give Kennedy the Bernie treatment, making sure their preferred candidate wins the nomination, not some upstart threatening to upset the big club.

Gavin Newsom is too male and white. Hillary Clinton is already a two-time loser who has not grown any more likeable than she was in 2016. The real dark horse candidate to watch out for is Michelle Obama.

Filmmaker Joel Gilbert makes a compelling case for this scenario in his recent book and film. Mrs. Obama hits the triple crown of intersectionality  black, female, and first combination of both in the Oval Office. She is following her husbands pathway from 2008, including books and tours, and replacing Iowa with Democrat-friendly South Carolina for the first primary. The Democrat convention will conveniently be held in her former hometown of Chicago.

Newt Gingrich agrees, telling Fox News, The former First Lady has already kicked off the soft launch of her presidential campaign. Roger Stone concurs.

Imagine the media coverage of a Trump-Obama campaign. Anything and everything Trump utters will be either racist or sexist. Mrs. Obama has no record for judgement or criticism. She will be the Oprah candidate, appealing to the new Democrat base of single, middle-aged, college educated white women who abhor the toxic masculinity and mean tweets of the Orange Man.

Are we watching a movie play out with a predetermined ending? Is the ruling class telling Trump and his supporters, George Carlin style, Its a big club and you aint in it? Are elections relevant anymore, reflecting the will of the elites, not the hoi polloi?

Trump is taking the slings and arrows, as he proclaimed during the 2016 campaign. He undoubtedly knows whats happening and is prepared for the myriad forces working against him. He prevailed in 2016 but the enemy is stronger and wont get fooled again as they did in 2016.

Does Trump have a few aces up his sleeve or is his campaign a fools errand?

Brian C Joondeph, MD, is a physician and writer.

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When I was a child, one of my favorite movies was 1989s Bill and Teds Excellent Adventure. For those who may have missed this Gen-Xer nostalgic gem, its a buddy comedy about two good-hearted teenaged slackers (played by Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves) who are more interested in making terrible music than in schoolwork, and in order to prevent their imminent failure in a high school history report, a fixer from the future (played by the late George Carlin) goes back in time to offer them a time machine which can help them gain the knowledge needed to pass.

The duo is comically ignorant of history, even by my then ten-year-old standards. Caesar, in their limited knowledge, was a salad dressing dude, and Napoleon was a short, dead dude. But what recently entered my memory while encountering items in the new cycle was what they say of George Washington while studying for the report.

Bill, quizzing Ted about George Washington, asks Ted for facts about the man:

Ted [confidently]: Had wooden teeth, chased Moby Dick. Bill [puzzlingly]: Thats Captain Ahab, dude.

As a child, I certainly understood the humor in that scene. I already knew that Washington was purported to have had wooden teeth, and much else -- like that hed supposedly chopped down a cherry tree and refused to lie about it, and that he was a general in the Revolutionary War, and that he was our first president, and that he was so important that his face was on Mount Rushmore. And I definitely knew how ridiculous it was to confuse George Washington with Captain Ahab (who I knew well from Gregory Pecks portrayal in the movie).

In other words, there was no need to provide a cipher for the audience to understand the action or comedy taking place on screen, as it was generally understood that even the youngest of viewers would understand the joke in 1989 America, and that the movie was speaking to an audience that was far more enlightened than the main characters.

Fast forward to an article in Screen Rant that I encountered when the long-awaited (and unfortunately disappointing) third installment to the series, Bill and Ted Face the Music, came out in 2020. The article seeks to inform readers of all the historical figures referenced in the movie, and there is a scene which very obviously recreates the famous painting, Washington Crossing the Delaware (1851).

As fans of Hamilton will know, writes Quinn Hough, George Washington was the first president of the United States.

Is that supposed to be a joke? Is it a forced and desperate attempt to connect with readers by invoking the pop-culture phenomenon that was the Hamilton musical? Or have we truly reached a point where younger movie fans are more likely to know that George Washington was the first president from having watched a fictional reimagining of the Founders as bi-racial characters (so as to make the Founders more palatable to modern woke viewers) than to have learned that fact in school or as a matter of their national inheritance?

Kids certainly arent learning this in public schools, or in any general sense, given that history and civics scores among eighth-graders have recently fallen to the lowest levels on record last year. But, as Elon Musk enlightened viewers on Real Time with Bill Maher, it is still possible that some students in very well-funded schools, where affluent children are taught, still learn George Washington was the first president.

Speaking of how children are infected by the woke mind-virus, Musk tells Maher:

Let me give you an example that a friend of mine told me. His daughters go to high school in the Bay Area and he was asking them, So who are the first few presidents of the United States? They could name Washington. So he said, What do you know about him? Well, he was a slave owner. What else? Nothing. Like, okay, maybe you should know more than that.

While its heartening that Mahers audience gives that last comment applause, we should be clear in recognizing that Elons friend is largely to blame for his daughters ignorance. He obviously feels that his daughters should know things that he was too busy to teach them as a counterpoint to the woke nonsense that he failed to foresee they would be taught in their ultra-left-wing public (presumably) schools. His children are ignorant both because he neglected to teach them about history and their national inheritance, and because he paid public officials and saboteurs handsomely to poison their minds with a woke reimagining of our countrys ideological roots.

Make no mistake, if the woke intellectual arsonists are able to successfully raze the legacy of George Washington, they will have destroyed nearly everything that was once meant to make America unique and special.

Washington is a political figure who stands without parallel in all of known human history. However, he is not known to history, as Elon Musks friends daughters are taught in school, solely because he was our first president, and it is certainly not because he owned slaves.

In fact, Washingtons uniqueness in regard to his disposition on this matter is due to his rarity as an opponent of slavery in a time in history when only a scant few powerful men on the entire planet would have joined him in morally opposing the practice, which had been unquestioned among humanity for millennia. As testament to this fact, Washington signed what might be called the first anti-slavery law in the United States, which allowed for federal enforcement of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 that outlawed slavery in the Midwest territories which would later become the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

But to best understand what makes George Washington the legendarily admirable figure that he is, one might look to what his enemies had to say about him.

Shortly after the Revolutionary War, American painter Benjamin West went to England to paint a portrait of King George III, writes historian H.W. Crocker III. What will he do, now that the war is won? asked the king about General Washington.

They say he will return to his farm, West replied.

If he does that, said George, he will be the greatest man in the world.

Other accounts refer to George III calling Washington the most distinguished man living or referring to him as the greatest character of his age, but the Kings respect for such a decision by Washington is unmistakable.

And return to his farm Washington did, until he reluctantly answered the call of duty to serve his countrymen, for the good of our nation. Most importantly, though he recognized that the American people may have desired that he become a king, he refused to become one.

In his farewell speech of 1796, he told the American people:

I had constantly hoped that it would have been much earlier in my power, consistently with my motives which I was not at liberty to disregard, to return to that retirement from which I had been reluctantly drawn. The strength of my inclination to do this, previous to the last election, had even led to the preparation of an address to declare it to you; but mature reflection on the then perplexed and critical posture of our affairs with foreign nations, the unanimous advice of persons entitled to my confidence, impelled me to abandon the idea. I rejoice that the state of your concerns, external as well as internal, no longer renders the pursuit of inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty or propriety, and am persuaded, whatever partiality may be retained for my services, that, in the present circumstances of our country, you will not disapprove of my determination to retire.

We are not a young nation, despite the insistence by some silly folk to characterize us as such relative to our European counterparts. The United States Constitution is the first permanent constitution of its kind, and the oldest in the world that is still in effect. George Washingtons selflessness and commitment to civil servitude, rather than succumbing to the allure of power, did more to achieve that outcome than any other act in American history, and his example rightfully remains the measure by which all presidents are weighed.

Though few presidents have measured up to that example, there is value in the unprecedented standard that George Washington has set forth. And its not hard to understand why woke authoritarian politicians, academics, media, and corporatists are working in unison to replace that standard with something else entirely are propping up a barely-functional career politician like Joe Biden as a puppet-substitute for that standard.

Graphic credit: public domain
On April 25, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives broke new foreign policy ground by voting 401-19 on a resolution congratulating Israel on its 75th anniversary and the so-called Abraham Accords with four Arab states. And for once, it didnt demand the dangerously delusional Two-State Solution (TSS)

It was a routine text, similar to others the House issued in previous years; new was the absence of any reference to the verbal hologram of the Palestinians. (A hologram is something that looks like it is there but really is not.) And for that omission, the 18 anti-Israel representatives angrily voted against it. For them, Israel is the obstacle to peace because it refuses to let the putatively primeval Palestinian people have a state in their ancient homeland. Therefore, the absence of any nod to the messianic TSS was unbalanced.

Repeatedly over the years, House statements on Israels Independence Day have promoted the TSS. The 2018 version supported a negotiated settlement leading to a sustainable two-state solution with the democratic, Jewish state of Israel and a demilitarized, democratic Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace and security, which was then and still is thoroughly divorced from reality, wishful thinking, and virtually messianic. A democratic state? Of todays twenty-one Arab states, how many are democratic?

And a demilitarized one? No Arab Muslim would ever agree to such an insult to his manhood. In 1982, after a dozen years of Arab terrorists in southern Lebanon and their horrors, Israel had had enough. The government sent the Israel Defense Force over the border to drive thousands of PLO gunmen northward, retreating into Beirut.

Image by Bruce Emmerling. CC BY 2.0.

Israel pounded the PLO even there, but when the terrorists were ready to surrender and depart the country, they refused to be disarmed of their personal weapons. They would rather die in Beirut as soldier-victims of Al-Yahud/the Jews than submit to this humiliation. So, they were allowed to keep their guns as they traveled to the port. And because they had survived the Israeli onslaught and lived to murder another day, they celebrated Arab style by firing off bursts of their beloved Kalashnikovs as their open-air trucks careened through Beirut streets. Not surprisingly, an untold number of innocent Lebanese pedestrians were not only wounded, but some also fell dead.

What is also functionally delusional in the TSS is the implicit fantasy that when it comes to Judea and Samariathe names on all maps for thousands of years, West Bank only came into common usage in 1968--handing them over will satisfy these Muslims. And I say Muslims, not Palestinians, because, contrary to the most successful psychological warfare operation in history that invented this phantom nation, these people are not Palestinian in any way.

There is nothing Palestinian about them. When their would-be martyrs drive a vehicle into a clutch of Jews waiting for a bus, and the drivers jump out with a knife to stab those still alive, they shout, Allahu Akbar!/Allah is the greatest! They will never yell Long live Balestine! (sic), a name so alien to these Arabs rooted in the Arabian Peninsula that they cannot pronounce it properly.

In 2006, elections for a Palestinian assembly were held, but 75% of the winners represented the anti-nationalist Muslim Brotherhood, the granddaddy of all Muslim murder cults. And ever since, the Palestinian Authority has never held another election because it knows it would produce the same results.

The local Brotherhood franchise in Israel calls itself Hamas, but it is still the same Brotherhood founded in 1928 to oppose Ataturks modernizing Turkey and the infusion of secularism into the Islamic body politic. Islam sees nationalism as a Western, infidel import. Nationalism is a rival for the affection of Believers in the Umma, the international congregation of Believers in the One True Faith.

Thats why we no longer hear of, as we did in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, terror units in the PLO syndicate with political names such as the Palestine Liberation Front, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP); the PFLP-General Command, etc. Fatah, the only gang with an Islamic name was, therefore, the most successful and largest. Fatah is the title of the 48th sura/chapter in the Koran. It means conquest and, in context, conquest of the infidels.

All founding members of Fatah grew up in the Muslim Brotherhood. The late Yasir Arafats father headed the clandestine Brotherhood apparatus in Mandatory Palestine. Their war of national liberation was only a smokescreen.

Today, most of the PLO terror gangs with political names are inert. In their place, there is Hamas, an Arabic word for Islamic piety and passion so intense it drives a Believer to want to murder as many Jews as possible and simultaneously have them kill him, propelling him instantaneously into Muslim paradise to be permanently stoned on hash, chronically drunk (alcohol is allowed there), while raping virgins 24-7 for all eternity.

Rivaling Hamas in Gaza is Islamic Jihad, a title that could not be more honest. No Palestinian nationalism for these assassins (an etymologically Arabic word for pious, Shiite hash heads in the Middle Ages.) Islamic holy war against all infidels on Planet Earth is their cause. That is what they live for, these devotees of the Koran, an antisemitic tract.

The TSS is an antisemites fantasy for, if implemented, he could smile on a fresh tsunami of pathetic and tearful masses of Jews forced from their homes, as Jews have repeatedly been abused throughout their tragic history. The TSS means that the half-million Jews currently living in Judea and Samaria would be evicted, as happened in 2005 in Gaza. There, thousands of Jewish families were driven from homes they had every moral and legal right to live in, on acreage assigned to the Jewish people by the League of Nations in 1922 and reaffirmed by the United Nations in 1945, which PR points the palsied imagination of Israels post-Jewish politicians never raise.

Hypothetically, some Israelis might choose to remain and become citizens in the new State of Ancient Philistia. But this would mean returning to the status of dhimmi in a Muslim polity. Devotees of the TSS commonly do not know that the relationship between Jews and Muslims did not begin with the Zionist movement founded in 1897; not with 1917s Balfour Declaration; not in 1948 or 1967 when Israel repelled a second, concerted Arab onslaught bent on destroying the worlds only tiny, independent Jewish state, as well as killing and raping lots of Jews and looting all their wealth.

The TSS envisions handing the high ground of Judea and Samaria back to Islam and restoring the ceasefire lines of 1949-67, lines that the late Abba Eban called the borders of Auschwitz. No sober Israeli of any religious or secular persuasion would agree to handing back the high ground, bringing Muslim Brothers with small arms in range of Ben Gurion Airport and the Knesset.

The TSS is a recipe for the destruction of this country, and Israel would benefit greatly by, finally, publicly, declaring that the Oslo Peace Process had bombed, pun intended. Only men ignorant of Islam like the late Marxist haters of religion, especially Judaism, Isaac Rabin, and Simon Peres, and his disciple Joseph Beilin, would dream up the wretched Oslo Peace Process that never brought peace, only death for 1,660 defenseless people in Israel massacred by these savages, which statistic includes neither the soldiers and police who also lost their lives in counter-terror operations nor the thousands of wounded in these atrocities, some lamed and mutilated for life.

The TSS is an antisemites wet dream of destroying the resurrected Jewish commonwealth, risen-from the-ashes of the crematoria.

Shai ben-Tekoa is the author of PHANTOM NATION: Inventing the Palestinians as the Obstacle to Peace, and podcasts at Phantom Nation.
As much I respect Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s stand on Big Science and suppression of speech, I remember the RFK, Jr. of just nine years ago who championed both.

In September 2014, Kennedy joined the chaotic throngs marching through the still viable Manhattan in their Sisyphean protest against climate change. In speaking of politicians who challenged conventional warming wisdom -- contemptible human beings to a person -- Kennedy wished out loud that there were a law they could be punished under.

If the politicos were still immune from punishment, industrialists, according to Kennedy, were not. Kennedy focused his wrath on two of them, the brothers Charles and David Koch. They are enjoying making themselves billionaires by impoverishing the rest of us, ranted Kennedy. Do I think the Koch brothers should be tried for reckless endangerment? Absolutely.

At the time Kennedy attacked the brothers, Koch industries was doing about $115 billion in annual business and employing 60,000 people. Unlike Kennedys buccaneer grandfather who swindled much of his fortune, Koch Industries made its mark doing real, gritty, sweaty, red-state kind of work. They have processed and transported and traded in oil, coal, fertilizer, pulp, fibers, polymers, building products, paper, electronic components, pollution control equipment, and beef. Without industries like Koch, America grinds to a halt.

I would like to think that Kennedy has had his mind opened in the decade since his ritual defamation of the Kochs, but I am not at all sure he has. In his otherwise admirable book, The Real Anthony Fauci, he speaks of climate change just once and then inanely.

Trumps critics relegated any further claims of HCQ efficacy, he writes of hydroxychloroquine, to the same anti-science waste bin as Trumps notorious recommendation for bleach to cure COVID and his denial of climate change.

For starters, Kennedy can show he deserves to be taken seriously by apologizing to Trump, who made no such claim about bleach. In the last few years, Kennedy has had a crash course in fake news, not as the perpetrator, but as the victim. He should understand by now that not everything the media say about a perceived enemy is true.

Not everything Big Science says is true either. Suddenly, writes Kennedy of the COVID scare, those trusted institutions seemed to be acting in concert to generate fear, promote obedience, discourage critical thinking, and herd seven billion people to march to a single tune.

As Kennedy knows by now, conservatives have been buying his book, not liberals. The government response to COVID did not shock us. What did shock us is that someone on the Left finally caught on to the way herd thinking had corrupted his fellow progressives.

On the right, we have been watching this precise paradigm play out for at least 35 years -- the fear, the groupthink, the social control, the coercion, the slander, the politicization of science. And Kennedy, for all those years, has sided with the oppressors.

A little background is in order. In June 1988, one of our trusted institutions, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, strayed from its mission, badly. Just thirteen years after scientists fretted in the pages of the New York Times about global cooling, James Hansen lent NASAs imprimatur to his claim that global warming is now large enough that we can ascribe with a high degree of confidence a cause and effect relationship to the greenhouse effect.

Although Hansen conceded that there was a need for improving these global climate models, he larded his presentation before a Senate committee with enough spurious charts and graphs to grab the medias attention and give the international left a subtle but powerful new instrument for social control.

Global warming worked well to generate fear for at least fifteen years. When the earth temperatures started to flat line in defiance of computer projections, some diabolical marketer introduced a new term of art to keep the fear machine humming -- climate change. Now, every shift in the weather, however routine, could be employed to stifle dissent and frighten schoolchildren.

The media have been reluctant to acknowledge the semantic shift, let alone to explain it. In an all too typical article -- Why are they calling it 'climate change' now? -- Eoin OCarroll used just about every evasive tactic in play to avoid answering the question he posed in the very title of this 2009 Christian Science Monitor article. Still, O'Caroll did concede that pesky facts forced the greenies to substitute terms.

In the publishers note to The Real Anthony Fauci, Tony Lyons observes, Complex scientific and moral problems are not resolved through censorship of dissenting opinions, deleting content from the Internet, or defaming scientists and authors who present information challenging to those in power. Kennedy surely agrees. Throughout the book, he denounces the many defamation campaigns against his allies and himself.

Kennedy fails to recognize, however, that for sheer nastiness, the COVID crowd cannot begin to compete with climate-change propagandists. In 2007, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Ellen Goodman took credit for introducing the reductio ad Hitlerum that since has become de rigeur in the climate-change movement.

I would like to say we're at a point where global warming is impossible to deny, wrote Goodman. Let's just say that global warming deniers are now on a par with Holocaust deniers, though one denies the past and the other denies the present and future. Ouch!

To be taken seriously, Kennedy needs to sit down with a Michael Shellenberger, a Marc Morano, a Steve Milloy, or a Steve Koonin and hash out who really are the deniers -- the climate skeptics or the progressive herds eager to sacrifice every last freedom just as they did with COVID.

Oh yeah, and one more thing, a big one: Kennedy needs to explain how the founder of Childrens Health Defense can ignore the annual slaughter of Americas most defenseless children. Until then, hes Dennis Kucinich 2.0.

Jack Cashills newest book, Untenable: The True Story of White Ethnic Flight from America's Cities, is now available for pre-order in all formats.

Image: John S. Quarterman
Now that the New York Times' dramatic expose about the huge surge in migrant child labor at slaughterhouses, chemical factories, construction sites, and chicken processing plants is out, 60 Minutes has decided to do its own version of the story  this time rewriting the damning report to exonerate Joe Biden and his open-borders policies that created it.

A Nebraska middle school reporting a child with acid burns led to one of the largest investigations into child labor in the U.S. The Department of Labor found children as young as 13 were working overnights cleaning slaughterhouses. https://t.co/uBAwBp1BWk pic.twitter.com/YaZ88hFB8W  60 Minutes (@60Minutes) May 7, 2023

It's as slovenly a report as any of the worst they've ever done, and naturally, 60 Minutes Biden shill Scott Pelley hosted it, sounding all 60 Minutes serious to make his report seem more important.

Actually, it's junk.

Here are a few pointers as to why:

Start with what the two New York Times reports revealed with rigorous, hard, fact-checked, verifiable reporting (here and here). (I blogged about those reports here and here.)

Report one, which ran on Feb. 25, 2023, by Hannah Dreier, had findings that were well summed up in its headline and subhead:

Alone and Exploited, Migrant Children Work Brutal Jobs Across the U.S. Arriving in record numbers, theyre ending up in dangerous jobs that violate child labor laws  including in factories that make products for well-known brands like Cheetos and Fruit of the Loom.

Report two, which ran on April 17, 2023, also by Dreier, had these summaries:

As Migrant Children Were Put to Work, U.S. Ignored Warnings

The White House and federal agencies were repeatedly alerted to signs of children at risk. The warnings were ignored or missed.

These are both Pulitzer-worthy reports that ought to get that prize as something that would restore the credibility of both the Times and the Pulitzer board, which up until now has seen scandals like these.

It's all very easy to explain: Biden has opened the border to "unaccompanied children," which has incentivized child exploitation rackets to send Central American children to the States to work as heavy labor for unscrupulous employers. The administration has even become a middleman for the cartel rackets who exploit kids, taking in the children, and then releasing the children to child slavers, who are pretty obvious about who they are, as their "guardians." When some government officials complained and sent warnings up the chain of command that the kids were being sent to the exploiters, the officials were punished, fired, reassigned, sanctioned. The Biden administration then promptly "lost" at least 85,000 children, who disappeared into the factories and construction sites as child labor, forced to pay their "debts" to the sleazy cartels that smuggled them in in the first place. It should be noted that Biden reaped big political hay for a few hundred who went missing under the Trump administration. Now the exploitation has reached epic proportions, clearly linked to Biden's policy of never sending unaccompanied children back to their homes in their home countries.

But 60 Minutes had an agenda to promote, so it tried to rewrite the report to Biden's benefit.

First, the show barely mentioned that the kids were migrants coming in from Joe's open borders. Pelley's written report (and it's pretty close to the actual transcript) mentioned immigration just twice in a 13-minute segment:

The jobs are grim and dangerous  and so they are often filled by immigrants who are desperate for work. Some immigrants use false papers to routinely beat the federal identification system that is known as E-Verify.

Did he find any who weren't migrants? That would be a story.

Then Pelley tried to sneakily pin the blame on President Trump's administration as well as Joe Biden's as a means of claiming "they all do it," as a means of erasing Biden's responsibility:

Scott Pelley: Did any of the children tell you how long they had been working at the plant? Shannon Rebolledo: Yes. Scott Pelley: And how long was that? Shannon Rebolledo: We looked back at a three-year period. So, we can confirm that they had minors working there as early as 2019.

No numbers offered and no questions from Pelley about what those 2019 numbers might be compared to the 2023 numbers. Twenty nineteen was a year when President Trump was in office, so see? Everybody does it. They may have found one or two cases. But child labor expanded greatly under Joe Biden and his open borders policies, with Joe insisting he'd never send back a child traveling alone. That's at least 85,000, and who knows how many they don't know about?

Then Pelley tried to pin the blame on bad companies that exploit child labor, not bad government policies that allow them to do so with impunity:

Last November, the Department of Labor filed suit against PSSI. The company responded with this: "PSSI has an absolute company-wide prohibition" against hiring minors. It added, "we will defend ourselves vigorously against these claims." The statement said PSSI checks eligibility of employees, including this girl, on a federal database. But that database is well known to be abused in an industry that can struggle to find workers.

He even included a shot at E-Verify, which supposedly checks worker credentials for legality to work in the States, claiming that it is useless:

Employers have known for nearly 30 years that E-Verify is useless if the applicant has bought, borrowed or stolen an actual ID  which is common. And in the case of the children, E-Verify was especially dubious.

Ah. Mise well get rid of it, then, since it can be fooled. Just what the open-borders lobby wants.

Pelley did move up the corporate chain of command and landed at Blackstone, which owns the slaughterhouse-cleaning company PSSI:

For all the years the investigation found child labor, PSSI has been owned by Wall Street's Blackstone  the largest private equity firm in the world. Blackstone told us "extensive pre-investment due diligence showed PSSI had industry-leading hiring compliance..." But it seems, that diligence failed to find what was obvious to investigators watching a shift change in a parking lot. Still, the investment giant says, "a claim of insufficient diligence or oversight is simply false." And yet 102 children labored at 13 slaughterhouses in eight states.

60 Minutes featured Blackstone as the ultimate exploiter of migrant child labor, calling it a company of "billionaires," and then ran Blackstone's hard-to-believe official denials claiming that it would never dream of exploiting child labor  yet it never mentioned that Blackstone is primarily known as a Democrat donor and Biden ally.

Just corporate bad guys, see? All those dreadful billionaires...quick, let's expropriate.

Not one word about Joe Biden's open borders policies that have fueled this child-migrant labor surge.

Then, as if to counter the New York Times' damning report about government retaliation against whistleblowers inside the Department of Labor and other agencies, they trotted out a labor inspector named Sharon Rebolledo to show us all how diligently she was doing her job locating child labor exploitation, which is what she gets paid to do.

Shannon Rebolledo is a 17-year Labor Department investigator who was skeptical. But she went to Grand Island, Nebraska, last summer, after a middle school told police about acid burns on the hand and knee of a 14-year-old girl. The student explained that she worked nights in this slaughterhouse on the edge of town. Scott Pelley: What did the educators at Walnut Middle School tell you? Shannon Rebolledo: It seemed to be known within the community that minors either are or were working overnight shifts. They told us about children that were falling asleep in class, um, that had burns, chemical burns. They were concerned for the safety of the kids. They were concerned that they weren't able to stay awake and do their job, which is learning in school. Scott Pelley: Because they'd been up all night. Shannon Rebolledo: Right.

Just a heroic Labor Department inspector doing her duty, right? Not one word about the Labor Department employees who were sanctioned and fired for doing their duty back when the kids were hauled in by the Border Patrol.

Rebolledo put a stop to the practice in the companies cited but painted a hideous candy-colored false-light picture about how she "saved" those migrant kids and they lived happily ever after:

As for the child workers in Grand Island, privacy laws prevent officials from telling us much. But we do know one child is in foster care and others are with their parents. Scott Pelley: You know, I wonder after speaking to these children, after exposing what was happening to them, what is your hope for them now? Shannon Rebolledo: I hope that they're safe. I hope that they have an opportunity to be kids, to go to school and not be tired. And if they're working, I just, I hope that they're able to work in a safe environment.

Really? What about the cartels? What do cartels do when their payments from their exploited child laborers stop coming because the kids are off the jobs and in school? And tell us about the wisdom of releasing kids to "parents" (if they were parents) after putting their kids in these exploitation situations? Something about that doesn't smell right, either. Sixty Minutes, which weaseled out of asking any questions on privacy concerns, never bothered to ask any of the obvious ones.

What we had here was a bid to lament child labor, blame companies exclusively, omit the connection of the companies to Joe Biden, and make the government the rescuing hero.

This is baloney. The Times story is out, so we know what really happened. Sixty Minutes just tried to hitch a ride on the story in order to point the blame at everyone but the creator of this problem: Joe Biden himself.

Image: Screen shot from 60 Minutes video on Twitter.
Currently, Title 42 is the only thing stopping Joe Biden from abandoning any pretense that the U.S. has a southern border. The invaders are lining up and ready to roll. The hordes we saw in the first two years of the Biden administration will shrink to insignificance compared to whats about to come. However, to the extent significant numbers are drawn by the promise of free public education for their children, getting the Supreme Court to reverse a decision mandating free public education for illegal alien children or amending the 14th Amendment might make America much less enticing.

Lt. Col. Allen West (ret.) knows how bad things are as we face a growing influx of invaders. He begins with a quotation from Cicero:

A nation can survive its fools, and even the ambitious. But it cannot survive treason from within. An enemy at the gates is less formidable, for he is known and carries his banner openly. But the traitor moves amongst those within the gate freely, his sly whispers rustling through all the alleys, heard in the very halls of government itself. -- Roman Statesman, Marcus Tullius Cicero

West describes the administrations lies about a secure border and a 90% decrease in illegal immigration. These lies work only if one redefines the English language, which is what leftists always do. Democrats believe these people will hand them permanent political power. Therefore, theyre not illegal, and everything is copacetic.

This is what Joe Biden is doing to our country.



We should have our military at the border stopping the imminent invasion coming later this week when Title 42 lifts.



This is already unsustainable and is a true national security crisis! https://t.co/l2y4zPqaVC  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) May 8, 2023

The answer, writes West, is the ballot box:

So, what is our recourse? Frederick Douglass uttered it once upon a time in a speech given on 15 November 1867, A mans rights rest in three boxes. The ballot box, jury box, and the cartridge box. Let no man be kept from the ballot box because of his color. Let no woman be kept away from the ballot box because of her sex. Douglass was then addressing this issue towards the very same political party that still seeks to undermine our individual rightsthe Democrat party. We are losing in the courts, and the leftists are angered that they lost the Supreme Court. We must reassert election integrity policies and legislation to restore the ballot box. And we must never allow these maniacal leftists to disarm us so that we cannot defend ourselves by way of the cartridge box.

I always support the ballot box over any alternatives. Theres a problem with this solution, though. You and I know that the Republican Party (as opposed to conservatives) wants illegal aliens as much as Democrats do, presumably as cheap labor. Weve also seen that the Republican party has no interest in election integrity, which means Republicans like the election outcomes were getting. They receive lots of donor cash and have no responsibility. Its possible that, if we turn out in droves for the election, well win, but its a gamble. However, there is an alternative.

We can fight for the Supreme Court to reverse Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 (1982), or we can begin the process of amending the 14th Amendment to block a toxic leftist Supreme Court interpretation of that statute. Let me explain.

Preliminarily, heres what the 14th Amendment says in section one:

All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. (Emphasis mine)

In the Plyler case, Texas argued that it was not required to expend taxpayer funds to educate children who are illegal aliens because they were not within the states jurisdiction and had no protection from discriminating against them. The leftist majority on the Supreme Court disagreed, holding that, as written, the 14th Amendment does not distinguish between legal immigrants and illegal aliens (any person within its jurisdiction).

On its face, this is a fallacious conclusion. The rules of statutory interpretation called ejusdem generis (of the same kind) means that, if there is a list in a statute, everything must be interpreted to comport with that list. In this case, the 14th Amendment is clearly talking about persons born or naturalized in the United States. Ejusdem generis means the phrase any person within its jurisdiction must refer to the larger group of persons who are born or naturalized.

However, for an activist Supreme Court, it just wasnt fair that illegal alien children wouldnt get a free education. (Really, thats pretty much what it held, although with mushy socioeconomic analyses that are not in the Courts actual purview.) Although the case technically applies only to K-12 education, leftists have pushed the principle to justify all sorts of welfare for illegal aliens.

We know that one of the primary reasons illegal aliens come is because they get free education for the children and, if theyre lucky, other welfare benefits. Thats rational behavior. Id come too if that were offered to me.

The current Supreme Court should reverse the Plyler ruling because its manifestly wrong. But failing that (and I have no faith in this Court), we citizens need to move to amend the 14th Amendment to clarify that it covers only people in this country legally. Without the enticements of free stuff, America will instantly become less attractive to the many people who already live here illegally or intend to do so.

Image: A horde of military-age men lining up to enter America illegally. Twitter screen grab.
Not long ago, leftist President Gabriel Boric was elected in a tight election and many, myself included, feared that Chile may be going down the wrong path.

Boric rode a wave of discontent over COVID, a RINO problem on the right, low economic growth, and a poorly organized opposition.

That was then, and this is now.

Over the weekend, Chileans sent a strong signal that they don't want a Cuba or Venezuela in their future.

Chile's far-right Republican Party finished in first place Sunday in a nationwide vote to choose the 50 members of a committee that will draft a replacement to the country's dictatorship-era constitution, according to an official count. The Servel election authority reported that with almost all ballots counted, the Republican Party had won 35 percent of the vote, corresponding to 22 seats on the constitutional rewrite committee. Traditional right-wing parties won a further 21 percent, giving conservatives an additional 11 seats, while the left-wing coalition supported by President Gabriel Boric finished with 29 percent, or 11 committee members. It is the second time that voters in the South American country have been called to take part in the rewriting of the 1980 constitution, adopted under the Augusto Pinochet dictatorship. In September, a previous text produced by a constitutional assembly made up mostly of political independents was rejected by 62 percent of voters.

Huge victory and a strong signal that Chilean voters want no part of a new constitution based on climate change and socialism. Economist Dan Mitchell has more commentary on this big defeat for the left, here. (See this , too.)

It is also a ray of hope for Colombians who also saw a leftist win a close election last year.

My good Chilean friend, who goes back to my school days, told me on the phone that voters are frustrated with crime and the economy. He agrees with me that Baric's election was a wake up call to the middle class, and Chile has a large middle class. Many conservative voters were angry and divided thus making it possible for Baric to win. It looks like Chileans had a glimpse of the future and got their act together and voted against the left.

Cheers for Chile today.
How did the U.S. become a one-party state, one in which only certain views are allowed?

Here's how: conservatives, true to principles, understandably, did not want to use the power of government to stop leftists/progressives/radicals/Marxists from protesting/taking over our institutions/cheating to win elections, etc. This led to leftists/progressives/radicals/Marxists taking over our institutions and winning elections. And they are only too happy to use government to prevent conservatives from protesting/dissenting/regaining footholds in our institutions...or having a realistic chance to win crucial elections.

This could easily be considered a tad ironic by a sentient being with a functioning cerebral cortex.

For a brief moment in history, the (formerly) United States was that rarest and most precious of all societies: a functional, representative, democratic republic. But that moment has passed, as has that republic, victim of an ever more rapacious and shameless Democrat party and a meek, hyper-tolerant Republican Party hoping against hope to still get invited to the coolest cocktail parties.

Much as America's enemies historically used its (formerly) free press and the nature of its open society against it, Constitution-disdaining leftists used conservatives' adherence to the Constitution  and its mandate for limited government, the rule of law, and equal justice under that law  against them in their now successful bid to get control over virtually all of the country's institutions and levers of power.

They now ruthlessly use the self-same institutions they used to protest  but now own  to spy on, castigate, deplatform, silence, slander, "cancel," and even incarcerate those with whom they disagree. They eschew dialogue and debate and simply scream "racist!" or "transphobe!" at any- and everyone who dares to dissent from their preposterous narrative.

The times, they are a-changing...almost as fast as the Democrat party. Harry Truman and JFK would now be deemed far-right extremists by most of today's Jackasses. (It will be interesting to see how JFK's nephew, Robert Kennedy, Jr., is treated by his fellow Democrats  and their sycophants in the mainstream media  during the 2024 presidential campaign.)

The Democrat party should be sued for false advertising, as it is anything but democratic as currently constituted. The louder its politicians yammer about appropriation, the more absurd it becomes. Elizabeth Warren claimed to be Native American. Stacey Abrams claimed to be the governor of Georgia. AOC claims to be sane. And Hillary Clinton claimed to be the victim of...well, everyone and everything, including "Macedonian content farms." We now know that Trump didn't collude with the Russians, but Hillary and certain Democrat operatives did.

The entire Democrat party claims to be for the "marginalized" and the "disproportionately" aggrieved, yet nothing could be farther from the truth. It may still try to "identify" as such, but it has now "transitioned" into the party of willful ignorance, mental illness, intolerance, and tyranny.

Whether lacking real conviction or the courage to defend those convictions, Republicans  and the rest of us  allowed this longest and most consequential of all insurrections to succeed.

Ironic? Yes.

More's the pity.

More's the shame.

Graphic credit: Nick Youngson, CC BY-SA 3.0, Alpha Stock Images.
As might have been expected, the ratings for FOX News's 8 P.M. E.T. hour suffered after Tucker Carlson was unceremoniously dumped without warning on Monday, April 24. During that last week of April, Tucker Carlson Tonight was replaced by a generic news and talking head show titled Fox News Tonight. The first week of Tucker-free hosting at 8 P.M. went to veteran channel host and Fox & Friends morning show co-host Brian Kilmeade.

Unsurprisingly, FOX News's ratings for that week at 8 P.M. tanked. Meanwhile, also-ran competitor Newsmax saw its ratings in the 8 P.M. hour increase approximately 300 percent.

While many Carlson fans and conservative bloggers were expecting, if not hoping, that FOX News's ratings would continue to crater, the opposite appears to be happening.

Week #2 without Tucker saw a gradual rise in the channel's 8 P.M. viewers. Last Wednesday and Thursday, the most recent ratings available today, FOX News actually won the 8 P.M. time slot, over CNN and MSNBC, both in the total number of viewers and the "demo" (the coveted advertising-preferred demographic of viewers aged 25 to 54).

And this victory came in spite of the fact that FOX has not yet settled on a permanent replacement for Carlson in that first hour of prime-time broadcasting. This week, for example, starting tonight, Kayleigh McEnany, a co-host of Fox News's Outnumbered, will guest host the 8 P.M. hour of Fox News Tonight.

Week #2 (May 15) of the 8 P.M. hour was hosted by Lawrence Jones, one of the channel's weaker hosts in this writer's opinion. Yet Jones pulled out a victory over his major competitors on Wednesday and Thursday night at 8 P.M. E.T. last week.

TV Newser/Adweek, which publishes the Nielsen cable news ratings (free registration required), headlined its Thursday May 4 ratings article: "Thursday, May 4 Scoreboard: Fox News Wins 8 and 9 PM to Remain No. 1 in Primetime."

Last Thursday, in the 8 P.M. E.T. hour, Fox New Tonight hosted by Lawrence Jones had 181,000 viewers in the demo (viewers 2554), while Anderson Cooper at CNN had 146,000 and Chris Hayes at MSNBC 153,000. In total number of viewers, FOX News Tonight had 1.550 million viewers vs. CNN (571,000) and MSNBC (1.442 million).

Ratings are fluid, of course, and anything can happen from here on out. But these numbers are a good start for FOX, which is counting on the ship righting, so to speak, in the wake of its #1 primetime show (Tucker Carlson Tonight) going bye-bye.

Independent media observers, including this author, have opined in the past that FOX News  which launched in 1996 and has been #1 in the ratings since 2001  is bigger than any of its hosts. This was proven in 2017, when its then top-rated prime time show, the Factor with Bill O'Reilly, was removed from the schedule in April of that year. After a summer of discontent, the ratings rebounded in the fall of 2017.

Similarly, after the election results of 2020 declared Joe Biden the winner, Fox News lost its leadership in primetime for several weeks, only to recover in early 2021. FOX News has remained the #1 cable news channel  and frequently the #1 basic cable channel  ever since.

Peter Barry Chowka is a veteran journalist who has covered national politics and the politics and economics of health care, popular culture, and media for over five decades. His web page with links to his work is http://peter.media. Peter's extensive American Thinker archive: http://tinyurl.com/pcathinker. Follow Peter on Twitter at @pchowka.
We can say two things about the drug cartels. First, they are deadly, and second, they are creative in reaching their customers.

Nick Beake, BBC News Europe correspondent, reported on the new submarine fleet carrying drugs to Europe. It is a remarkable story:

I'm about to climb into the first "narco-sub" known to have brought cocaine from South America to Europe. It's 20 metres (65 ft) long, built out of fibreglass and  remarkably  homemade. After clambering on top, I lift up the wonky manhole cover and descend into the hull where three men survived for 27 long days and nights, as they voyaged across the Atlantic Ocean just under the surface of the crashing waves. It's cramped, claustrophobic and incredibly primitive. The sunlight tries to creep in from faint cracks in the walls. There is a steering wheel, a couple of basic dials and a rusted key still wedged in the ignition. You can understand why one prospective skipper took one look at the vessel and concluded it was a death trap. The heat and noise would have been intense as the engine in the back of the sub burned through the 20,000 litres of fuel stored onboard. The crew of two Ecuadorean cousins and a former Spanish boxer set out from the Brazilian rainforest and first travelled along the Amazon river. They had energy bars, cans of sardines and plastic bags they used for toilet facilities. That was about all they had. Apart, of course, from three tonnes of cocaine worth more than $150m (121m).

Death trap, probably. Profitable trip for sure. After all, how often do a couple of Ecuadorean cousins and a former Spanish boxer get to deliver something worth that kind of money? It reveals why so many people are willing to participate in this business  it's risky but lucrative.

As we try to battle the drug crisis on our border, let's remember that supply will always meet demand.

To remember the Beatles: "In the town where I was born lived a man who sailed to sea..." Yes, the man who sailed to sea to deliver cocaine in a homemade submarine, homemade submarine.

PS: Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

Image: Defense Visual Information Distribution Service.
Over the past few years, malware attacks on iOS and Android have become rampant, with threat actors constantly finding new ways to infiltrate our systems. Now, according to a report from Check Point Research (CPR), threat actors are using a new strain of malware called FluHorse to target Android users and steal sensitive information such as credit card data, passwords, and two-factor authentication codes.

The malware, which is primarily targeting users in East Asia, sends emails to high-profile individuals which prompt them to resolve a payment issue. However, the email contains a link that takes users to fake websites of legitimate apps, where the threat actors encourage them to install the fake app APK.

Once installed, the app requests SMS access to intercept the incoming 2FA codes and prompts the users to enter their login credentials and credit card information to resolve the payment issue. The app then displays a system is busy message for 10 minutes, during which it gathers sensitive information and transmits it to the attackers. Since the apps closely mimic the appearance of legitimate apps, many users fail to notice the limited functionality and malicious behavior.

The malware campaign, which has been active since last year, is targeting apps such as ETC, a toll-collection app used in Taiwan, VPBank Neo, a banking app in Vietnam, and an unnamed transportation app.

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Warning to Android users

While threat actors are currently targeting users in East Asia, CheckPoint researchers have warned that the campaign could also spread to Western countries. And, since threat actors are constantly developing new FluHorse-infected apps, Android users should be cautious when receiving emails that urge them to take immediate action, as these emails may contain malware.

Moreover, to ensure best practice, users should never download apps or files from third-party websites or links provided in emails, regularly update their devices to the latest security patch, enable 2FA, and install trustworthy antivirus software.
After PayPal, Dashlane, Yahoo, and a few others, Google is the latest firm to adopt passkeys. The company recently announced that you can now create and use passkeys on your personal Google accounts. You will no longer require a password or 2-Step Verification (2SV) to sign in.

Passkeys are a more convenient and secure alternative to passwords that you use to sign in to apps and services. You dont need to remember them or save them anywhere, such as a password manager app. Passkeys arent stored in the cloud either, so they are safe from data breaches or phishing attacks as well. Everything happens on-device.

When you create a passkey for an app, your trusted device saves it locally. You can then proceed to sign in using the devices lock code or biometric authentication. No need to enter the password anymore.

Google, along with Apple, Microsoft, and many other tech firms part of the FIDO Alliance, has been working on this passwordless future for some time now. Several companies have rolled out passkey support in recent months, although in limited capacity alongside passwords and 2SV.

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As said earlier, these include PayPal, Dashlane, and Yahoo, while some others have announced their plans to support the tech soon. Google has now joined this group. It recently started rolling out passkeys as an additional option that you can use to sign in to your Google account on all major platforms.

While passkeys are created and stored on your device locally, some firms offer the option to sync them across your multiple devices. But if that option is not available, youll have to create a new passkey for the same account on every device you own.

For temporary uses, there is also an option to use a passkey from another device. This will not sync or passkey to the new device but allow you to sign in on it using an existing device where you have created a passkey. You should avoid creating passkeys on shared devices, though.

You can now use passkeys to sign in to your Google accounts

Users with a personal Google account can now create passkeys from here. Once done, Google will let you use the passkey to sign in. Password and 2SV arent going away, though. At least not just yet. The company says, Like any new beginning, the change to passkeys will take time.

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It is still working on improving the experience while expanding support to more devices and platforms. Google Workspace administrators will also soon have the option to enable passkeys for their end-users during sign-in.
Samsung has launched new limited edition protective cases for the Galaxy S23 series. It collaborated with the iconic Italian fashion brand Diesel for these cases. The new accessories are currently available in Italy, Malaysia, and a few other counties. The company may release them in more markets in the coming days.

Samsung collaborates with Diesel to launch limited edition Galaxy S23 cases

The Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra are getting three new accessories. Firstly, we have a standard black cover made of elastic TPU-type silicone. Samsung promises an ultra-shock resistant solution with raised edges to protect the screen. It features the iconic Diesel logo in a white accent, along with the companys tagline for successful living. The Korean firm says that the text is printed with an exclusive rubberized effect.

Next, Samsung is offering a Diesel-branded swappable backplate that you can use with its existing Frame Cover. It is a red plate with the Italian brands logo and tagline in white. The backplate is only available for the Galaxy S23 Ultra, though. Lastly, Samsung has launched a Diesel-branded strap that you can use with the Silicone Grip Cover for the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra. It helps reduce the risk of accidental drops, the company explains.

Samsung launched these new accessories in partnership with Diesel at an exclusive event in Milan. By combining the innovative design of the Galaxy S23 series with the iconic Diesel logo, it is possible to fully express ones personality, with a strong sense of authenticity and irreverence, said Paolo Bagnoli, Head of Marketing and Retail at Samsungs mobile division for the Italian market, in an official press release.

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Price and availability

Samsung announced these Diesel-branded limited edition cases for the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 Ultra through a newsroom post in Italy. The company has priced the standard black cover at 34.90 in the country. The Ultra-exclusive swappable backplate costs 23.90, while the strap is priced at 29.90. If you want to buy the Frame Cover or the Silicon Grip Cover, both come with a price tag of 54.90.

These limited-edition accessories are available in Italy through Samsungs online portal. You may also find the black cover in some retail outlets in select cities, though. As said earlier, the company has also released these Dies-branded cases for the Galaxy S23 series in Malaysia. However, it hasnt revealed the pricing and availability details in the country yet. If youre interested in these accessories, you may check their availability in your region at Samsung.com.
Anti-monarchy campaigners arrested ahead of the Kings coronation are considering legal action against the Metropolitan Police after being told no charges will be brought against them.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith also called on Monday for a full inquiry into who authorised the arrests during the disgraceful episode.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed the Met over the dozens of arrests of protesters amid concerns they were cracking down on dissent on Saturday at the behest of politicians.

The force made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

But Mr Smith said the eight protesters from Republic detained in London have all been told no charges will be brought against them.

He told the PA news agency: The speed with which they did this demonstrates they were very quickly aware they had made a very serious error of judgment and there will be action taken again.

Im obviously relieved they dropped it so quickly but very angry they even went down this road, robbing people of their liberty for absolutely no reason.

There was no evidence of any ability or intent to commit any offence and they simply decided to arrest us and that is outrageous.

We have just been told that the police will be taking no further action. This has been a disgraceful episode and we will be speaking to lawyers about taking legal action. I also expect a full inquiry into why they repeatedly lied to us and who authorised the arrests.  Graham Smith   (@GrahamSmith_) May 8, 2023

Scotland Yard has been asked about the result of the Republic arrests.

Earlier in the day, Mr Sunak defended Scotland Yards operation and denied officers were acting under pressure from ministers.

The police are operationally independent of Government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best, he told broadcasters during a visit to Hertfordshire.

Actually, Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely, that was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

Crowds line The Mall after the coronation ceremony of the King and Queen Camilla in central London (Gareth Fuller/PA)

But Mr Smith accused Scotland Yard of having every intention of arresting demonstrators and of having lied in discussions ahead of the planned protests.

The campaigner said he was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance unloading placards in St Martins Lane, Westminster.

He said police initially accused him of being equipped to lock-on to an object or building, which the new Public Order Act made a jailable offence.

Mr Smith denies this was his intention and believes the Met had used some straps they were carrying as a pretext to prevent their protest.

He raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest, including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and its my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

I understand the Labour Party said they wouldnt repeal this law, which is pretty disgraceful if true, this law needs to be repealed.

Labour frontbencher Andrew Gwynne said the Act gave disproportionate powers to the police but the party was not committing the party to repealing it if it enters government.

Instead, the shadow public health minister told Sky News: I think the next Labour government will look very carefully at this legislation.

Mr Gwynne defended the right to protest and suggested revellers supporting the coronation should have drowned out the dissent.

That wouldve been the appropriate approach, to drown out those that wanted to protest rather than maybe heavy-handed practice that some have suggested may have taken place, he said.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.

Westminster City Council has raised concerns that womens safety volunteers were among those arrested after rape alarms were seized.

The Met said it had received intelligence that people were planning to use the devices to disrupt the procession.

Caroline Russell said the London Assemblys Police and Crime Committee that she chairs will be questioning the Met over the worrying arrests.

The Green politician told Today: It felt like for someone who was trying to protest, and trying to do it by the book, it was very difficult to understand what the rules were.

It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because theyd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms.

It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Mets safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

In total the Met made 64 arrests during the coronation day.

Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drugs possession.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has demanded clarity from the forces leaders on the arrests.
Fans in attendance at the Eurovision welcome party in Liverpool have spoken of experiencing horrendous issues with crowd control, which left many crying, fainting or unable to even move their arms.

The National Lotterys Big Eurovision Welcome was held at St Georges Plateau on Sunday, with performances from Frankie Goes To Hollywood, the Lightning Seeds and Atomic Kitten expected to be defining moments of the show.

However, many in attendance have spoken of the serious crowd control issues, which have resulted in many crying and leaving the event or even vowing to not attend any further Eurovision events this week.

At first it was a good nice atmosphere, but all of a sudden the feeling began to change, 18-year-old Jess Swift from Liverpool told the PA news agency.

Eurovision welcome party crowds (Jess Swift/PA)

There was a child no older then 10 next to me who was in tears as he was just getting pushed against this barrier.

When it began to get busy, me and several people around asked security to help with crowd control on getting people to either side but nothing happened.

Some had an argumentative attitude and didnt want to help.

She added that the production team was more helpful and did a better job than security, and that many fainted while at the event.

The regular concert-goer said that while she is used to crowds, the situation at the event was horrendous.

I am used to crowds and the usual closeness and pushing but this was horrendous and nothing like Ive ever seen before.

The organisers are so lucky the crowd helped each other out, otherwise that wouldve turned very badly.

Morgan, 24, who lives near Chester and attended with three other people, told PA that the spectacular displays and great acts were sadly overshadowed by the lack of crowd control and organisation.

People were being told mixed messages, they were trying to push through past us to get to the other side, which we were told was blocked off and then they would come back.

There was virtually no space to breathe.

I saw girls crying and leaving. People were stressed and irritated. At one point we were shouting to get the attention of stewards (or) staff at the back, near the barriers, to get their attention, saying we need more space.

I felt the whole thing was chaotic.

Some attendees at the Eurovision welcome event were said to have been in tears due to issues with crowd control (Peter Byrne/PA)

She said that it was only in the last half an hour that attendees had a bit more breathing space, which was a huge relief.

Courtney Neary added that it got really crowded at about 7pm, with the 24-year-old who lives in Liverpool pre-emptively asking security to get people in to help with the crowds before problems escalated.

We got told, well sort it out in a minute theres not much we can do from here, but we are looking at the situation', she told PA.

Maybe about 15 minutes passed, and it got worse and worse to the point where I physically couldnt move, I couldnt lift my arms up.

I must have seen at least 20 people get pulled out around where we were.

She added that she had plans to go to more Eurovision events around the city centre, but has since changed her mind.

Ive said to my family now I wont be going to any of them. I couldnt trust the security.

Liverpool is hosting Eurovision instead of a city in Ukraine (Peter Byrne/PA)

Claire McColgan, director of Culture Liverpool, issued a statement following the incident.

She said: Event safety experts confirmed that at no point was anyone in danger, there were no serious medical incidents and we were comfortably within the available capacity.

Before the event began, people were keen to gather in front of the stage and this caused a small number to feel uncomfortable.

These individuals were helped out of that situation and the team then ensured this area remained safe and comfortable for those in it once the show started  which went off without any issues.

A Liverpool City Council spokesperson told PA that there was no overcrowding onsite and we were actually under capacity.
Talks on renewing Britains business ties with Hong Kong will be held during the first visit to the city by a UK minister since Chinas crackdown on its civil rights.

The Government has condemned the national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British territory in 2020 after mass protests.

The move strained relations and led to the creation of a visa scheme allowing Hong Kongers to come to Britain.

But the UK Government has recently made clear that it wants to maintain engagement with China despite political differences.

Investment minister Lord Dominic Johnson will discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong government representatives.

He said he will also stress that the UK will call out the violation of their (Hong Kongers) freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

It comes after the highly controversial attendance of Chinas vice-president Han Zheng, who has been blamed for the curtailment of freedom in the former British territory, at the Kings coronation.

The decision to invite Mr Han was strongly criticised by China hawks on the Tory benches and Lord Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong.

The Foreign Secretary said he made plain the UKs position on Hong Kong when he met with the Chinese vice-president in London ahead of the royal event.

But James Cleverly argued that the UK must engage directly with China in a recent foreign policy speech, angering some Tory critics of China who want ministers to go further in distancing the UK from Beijing and to be more outspoken in criticising its leadership.

Chinas Han Zheng arrives for a reception at Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation (Jacob King/PA)

Ahead of his trip, Lord Dominic Johnson said: Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excel  from financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

The UKs ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed. For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively  and our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

The UK says China remains in breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, under which it has a duty to uphold Hong Kongs high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms.

Hong Kong was handed over from the UK to China in 1997 with a promise by Beijing to keep western-style liberties under a one country, two systems framework.
The shape of our noses may be determined by a genetic material inherited from Neanderthals, new research suggests.

A new study led by UCL researchers found that a particular gene, which leads to a taller nose (from top to bottom), may have been the product of natural selection as ancient humans adapted to colder climates after leaving Africa.

Co-corresponding author Dr Kaustubh Adhikari, UCL Genetics, Evolution & Environment and The Open University, said: In the last 15 years, since the Neanderthal genome has been sequenced, we have been able to learn that our own ancestors apparently interbred with Neanderthals, leaving us with little bits of their DNA.

Here, we find that some DNA inherited from Neanderthals influences the shape of our faces.

This could have been helpful to our ancestors, as it has been passed down for thousands of generations.

The researchers used data from more than 6,000 people across Latin America, of mixed European, Native American and African ancestry, who are part of the UCL-led Candela study, which recruited from Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Peru.

Genetic information from the people was compared to photographs of their faces.

To see how different facial traits were linked to the presence of different genetic markers, the researchers looked specifically at distances between points on their faces, such as the tip of the nose or the edge of the lips.

According to the study, researchers newly identified 33 genome regions associated with face shape.

They were able to replicate 26 in comparisons with data from other ethnicities using people in east Asia, Europe, or Africa.

In one genome region in particular, called ATF3, the researchers found that many people in their study with Native American ancestry (as well as others with east Asian ancestry from another group) had genetic material in this gene that was inherited from the Neanderthals.

They found that this contributed to increased nasal height.

This gene region has signs of natural selection, suggesting that it conferred an advantage for those carrying the genetic material, the researchers say.

First author Dr Qing Li, Fudan University, said: It has long been speculated that the shape of our noses is determined by natural selection; as our noses can help us to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air we breathe in, different shaped noses may be better suited to different climates that our ancestors lived in.

The gene we have identified here may have been inherited from Neanderthals to help humans adapt to colder climates as our ancestors moved out of Africa.

Co-corresponding author Professor Andres Ruiz-Linares, Fudan University, UCL Genetics, Evolution & Environment, and Aix-Marseille University, added: Most genetic studies of human diversity have investigated the genes of Europeans; our studys diverse sample of Latin American participants broadens the reach of genetic study findings, helping us to better understand the genetics of all humans.

Researchers say the finding, published in Communications Biology, is the second discovery of DNA from archaic humans, distinct from Homo sapiens, affecting our face shape.

The same team discovered in a 2021 paper that a gene influencing lip shape was inherited from the ancient Denisovans.
The King and Queen have pledged to rededicate their lives to service as Charles called the nations support throughout the historic celebrations the greatest possible coronation gift.

As the weekend of festivities came to a close, Charles issued a special written coronation message, saying: We thank you, each and every one.

Traditional official portraits marking the crowning of Charles III and Queen Camilla were released to round off the monarchys landmark occasion.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla (Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/PA)

Among them, the King was captured in his full regalia  wearing the Imperial State Crown, holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross, and dressed in his regal purple tunic and Robe of Estate, seated on a Throne Chair in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace.

Camilla was pictured alongside the King, and also in a solo portrait, wearing Queen Marys Crown, with the train of her lengthy embroidered Robe of Estate spread in front of her.

The working royal family  the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Edinburghs, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke of Kent, the Gloucesters and Princess Alexandra  were also photographed stood with the King and Queen in the images by Hugo Burnand.

The official coronation portrait of the Queen (Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/PA)

The King, signing his words Charles R, said he and Camilla gave our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

The now-crowned monarch used his coronation message to issue an affirmation for the rest of his reign, saying he and Camilla would now rededicate our lives to royal service.

He added: To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible Coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.

The King also paid tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.

The Kings coronation message (Buckingham Palace/PA)

Meanwhile, Prince Louis turned into a labourer as he joined Prince George, Princess Charlotte and the Prince and Princess of Wales by shovelling dirt, pushing wheelbarrows and operating a digger as they helped out at a Scout Hut in Slough as part of the national volunteering drive to mark the coronation.

The five-year-old royal tried his hand at archery, making hand prints on a mural, and ended the day splashed with paint but got his reward  a smore, a marshmallow and chocolate sandwiched between two biscuits.

Kensington Palace described it as the youngsters first royal engagement.

Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales join volunteers to help renovate and improve the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough (Daniel Leal/PA)

Although Louis has been at numerous big royal events from Trooping the Colour to the coronation, it is thought to be the first time he has actively participated in an official visit face to face with the public.

While the King and Queen had quiet day away from the public eye after Sunday evenings Coronation Concert, other royals joined in the Big Help Out.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh helped at a puppy class for trainee Guide Dogs in Reading, while the Princess Royal attend a County Civic Service recognising local volunteers in Gloucester Cathedral.

The Waleses during their Big Help Out event (Daniel Leal/PA)

Edward confessed the royal family was concerned Miss Piggy would gate-crash the royal box during the Windsor Castle musical extravaganza, after Kermit the Frog turned up and danced in front of the dukes seat.

Everybody in the Royal Box was nervous when Miss Piggy would turn up, he said.

There was an empty seat just behind me and we didnt know who it was for.

We suddenly thought it could be her and once we started that rumour, everyone around us was very nervous.

Edward and Sophie, along with a four-month-old puppy named Lucy, take part in a puppy class at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Training Centre in Reading. (Paul Grover/Daily Telegraph/PA)

The Duke of York  who stepped down from being a working royal after his controversial Newsnight documentary  was missing from the family group of royals in the official coronation portraits released so far.

Andrew, who was at the coronation in his Order of the Garter robes, paid millions to settle a civil sexual assault case last year.

The Duke of Sussex was also missing, no longer being a working royal, and having headed back to California shortly after the coronation ceremony.

Edward and Sophie were seen to be sweetly offering support to the late Queens cousin Princess Alexandra, who was smiling broadly, with both assisting her by holding her arms.

The Duke of Kent, the Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Princess Royal, the King and Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra and the Duke of Edinburgh (Hugo Burnand/Royal Household 2023/PA)

To one side of a crowned Camilla was her stepson and the heir to the throne, the Prince of Wales, and next to William, the Princess of Wales in her Alexandra McQueen dress and leaf embroidery headpiece by Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen.

Camilla was next to the King, and on the other side of Charles was his sister the Princess Royal in military dress.

Former Tatler photographer Hugo Burnand  a favourite of Charles and Camillas  took the couples official wedding photos in 2005, and for William and Kates nuptials in 2011.
Former Im A Celebrity winner Georgia Toffolo confessed to missing her former jungle campmate Stanley Johnson, the father of former prime minister Boris Johnson, after she exited the South African instalment of the ITV programme.

The Made In Chelsea star, 28, better known as Toff, was among the famous faces and former Im A Celebrity contestants who returned to compete in the all-star edition of the reality series to battle it out to become the first Im A Celebrity Legend.

During Monday nights episode, viewers saw Toff and Coronation Street star Andy Whyment sent home after losing out in a head-to-head battle with Myleene Klass and Jordan Banjo.

Unfortunately for @ToffTalks and @andywhyment81, this Trial wasnt their gold rush, and its time for them to catch the boat home  Thanks for being top sports! #ImACeleb pic.twitter.com/4debzQBH5Q  I'm A Celebrity (@imacelebrity) May 8, 2023

Speaking after leaving the show, Toff said: I got on really well with everyone, especially with the girls. I am going to say I really did miss Stanley Johnson. I never thought I would say that, but I really did.

I think when you make a special friend like I did last time, youre seeking it out. I love the company of older people, I think its a privilege to be around them.

Toffolo won Im A Celebrity in 2017, beating Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas in the final, during a series which saw her and former Conservative MEP Stanley strike up a close friendship.

After braving the Australian jungle, the duo went on to star in a number of other reality shows together, including Celebrity Hunted and Celebrity Antiques Road Trip.

Georgia Toffolo (ITV/PA)

Toff added: And whether it was Carol Vorderman, I loved her because when the days were dragging on, wed sit and talk about anything that would sort of satisfy our intellectual hunger, which was so nice.

I got on really well with Paul Burrell. I mean, the stories about the royals are so up my street.

I think I now know everything about the royal family, which is amazing. I wouldnt say there was one person in particular this time, it felt like we were all sort of collaboratively getting on really well.

Former royal butler Burrell was the runner-up in the 2004 series and previously said of his experience on the show: I went into the jungle as Princess Dianas former butler and I came out as Paul Burrell.

Former king of the jungle Joe Swash, who was victorious during the 2008 instalment, became emotional in footage shown on Monday nights episode as he recalled his time in the Australian and South African Im A Celebrity shows.

The EastEnders star, 41, met his now wife, TV star Stacey Solomon, on the show after she won the 2010 series, during which he was presenting the shows spin-off series.

Andy Whyment (ITV/PA)

He said: Honestly, I genuinely feel like Im the biggest winner ever from anyone whos done this show. It gave me my wife, my kids, a career for over a decade.

Speaking in the Bush Telegraph, he added: I find it hard to talk about the jungle without getting emotional  I wear my heart on my sleeve anyway. Youre going to have to bear with me.

A homesick Swash, who now has three children with Solomon (daughters Rose and Belle, and son Rex), said in camp: Growing up, all I wanted to be was a dad and have a family. Then the jungle came along  I met my wife on the jungle.

He added: I feel like Ive won this already. I dont know where I would be without it. Id just be that dude that was on EastEnders years ago. Now, Im Stacey Solomons husband.

He also told the Bush Telegraph: I feel very blessed, very lucky. It was my chance to come back and say thank you. You pulled me through some really dark times and gave me everything I ever wanted.

After falling during the night, sadly, Janice Dickinson has withdrawn from the competition. She will always be our Original Supermodel and Camp Diva!  #ImACeleb pic.twitter.com/tsHI8vjtVl  I'm A Celebrity (@imacelebrity) May 8, 2023

The campmates learnt that Janice Dickinson had left the show after injuring herself, with actress Helen Flanagan reading a message from the American model and saying: I think were all going to really miss Janice.

Soap star Whyment, who was the runner-up in the 2019 series of Im A Celebrity, said of his favourite moment in this series: Id say going into main camp and meeting everyone for the first time because I came in as a late arrival, as I did in 2019.

Sadly, a short time later Ant and Dec came in and dropped the bombshell that we had to do a trial and whoever lost went home so that kind of changed my mood And doing the trials. Thats what you go in there for isnt it?

For me, there is no point in just going in there and sitting in camp. I arrived as a latecomer and did three trials and a Chest Challenge  I think thats what its all about.

Youve got to go in there and throw yourself into it. Thats what I did and thats what I did the first time, too.

Im A CelebritySouth Africa continues on ITV1, and viewers can catch up on the full series on ITVX.
Updated 8 May 2023 at 4:07 am

A man has been charged with attempted murder after a 71-year-old woman was attacked in Worcester on Sunday, West Mercia Police have said.

Anthony Roberts, 56, of Amber Heights, Green Hill, Worcester, was also charged with sexual assault and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Roberts, who has been remanded in police custody, is due to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on Monday.

CHARGED | A man has been charged after a woman was attacked in Worcester yesterday (7 May). Police were called just after 2am on Sunday after a 71 year old woman was attacked in Kleve Walk. She remains in hospital in a critical condition. More details: https://t.co/7UDOgd1aCB pic.twitter.com/y0aqaUnsgc  West Mercia Police (@WMerciaPolice) May 8, 2023

The woman, who was attacked in Kleve Walk alongside the River Severn near the city centre at around 2am on Sunday, remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Police said she suffered multiple stab wounds.

Superintendent Rebecca Love reassured the public that police were treating the attack as an isolated incident.
Scotland Yard has expressed regret over the arrests of six anti-monarchy protesters ahead of the Kings coronation after being threatened with legal action when no charges were brought.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith said a chief inspector and two other Metropolitan Police officers personally apologised to him over what he called a disgraceful episode after they visited him on Monday evening.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had earlier backed the Met over the dozens of arrests of protesters amid concerns they were cracking down on the right to protest.

We have just been told that the police will be taking no further action. This has been a disgraceful episode and we will be speaking to lawyers about taking legal action. I also expect a full inquiry into why they repeatedly lied to us and who authorised the arrests.  Graham Smith   (@GrahamSmith_) May 8, 2023

London Mayor Sadiq Khan requested further clarity from Scotland Yard, saying that the right to peaceful protest is an integral part of democracy.

The Met issued a lengthy defence as it confirmed Mr Smith and five others have been told they face no further action after being stopped at 6.40am on Saturday.

The force said it had arrested the group using new powers under the much-criticised Public Order Act after it was believed items found alongside a large number of placards could be used as lock-on devices to cause disruption.

Those arrested stated the items would be used to secure their placards, and the investigation has been unable to prove intent to use them to lock on and disrupt the event, the statement said.

This evening, all six have had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken.

We regret that those six people arrested were unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route.

This evening all six have had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken. We regret that those six people arrested were unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route.https://t.co/74ktdpmmkV  Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) May 8, 2023

Mr Smith said the three officers apologised to him at his home in Reading, Berkshire, before handing back the straps for the placards they arrested him over.

He told the PA news agency: They seemed rather embarrassed, to be honest.

I said for the record I wont accept the apology. We have a lot of questions to answer and we will be taking action.

Scotland Yard said 52 of the 64 arrests made during its coronation operation on Saturday related to concerns individuals were going to disrupt the pageantry.

So far, four charges have been brought.

The force insisted its action was targeted at those believed to be intent on taking this action.

Any suggestion all protest was prohibited is not correct, it added.

The force acknowledged that at least one of the six people arrested while unloading placards from a vehicle in St Martins Lane had engaged with its protest liaison team, but said those officers were not present during the arrest.

I've requested further clarity from the Met. While its vital the police are able to keep us safe, it must be balanced with protecting the right to peaceful protest  an integral part of democracy. Londoners will want swift reassurance any lessons to be learned will be learned. https://t.co/onFPUGCtmu  Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) May 8, 2023

Taking into account the information that people were seeking to seriously disrupt the event, and the significance of the security operation, officers had been briefed to be extremely vigilant and proactive, it said.

Mr Smith had told PA the speed in which they dropped any action against the group showed officers were aware they had made a very serious error of judgment.

Im obviously relieved they dropped it so quickly but very angry they even went down this road, robbing people of their liberty for absolutely no reason, he said.

There was no evidence of any ability or intent to commit any offence and they simply decided to arrest us and that is outrageous.

Mr Sunak had defended Scotland Yards operation and denied officers were acting under pressure from ministers.

The police are operationally independent of Government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best, he told broadcasters during a visit to Hertfordshire.

Actually, Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely, that was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

But Mr Smith believed officers had every intention of arresting demonstrators and used the straps as a pre-text to detain the group under the new powers making locking-on to an object a jailable offence.

Labour mayor Mr Khan tweeted: Ive requested further clarity from the Met. While its vital the police are able to keep us safe, it must be balanced with protecting the right to peaceful protest  an integral part of democracy.

Londoners will want swift reassurance any lessons to be learned will be learned.

Mr Smith raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest, including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

Labour was not committing to repealing the act despite harbouring concerns about its use.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.
A 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death in Buckinghamshire in a targeted attack, police said.

Thames Valley Police are hunting for up to four suspects  who had their faces covered  following Sunday nights attack in High Wycombe.

Another 17-year-old boy was also hurt but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening and he has been taken to hospital.

Police at the scene in High Wycombe (Cameron Henderson/PA)

Officers were called to reports of the stabbing in the Easton Street area of High Wycombe at about 7.30pm on Sunday.

No arrests have been made.

Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown said the investigation into the tragic incident was in the very early stages and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

He added: The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.

This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

However, Id like to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

He said there would be a large police presence in the area as officers investigated.

Police at the scene in High Wycombe where a 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death (Cameron Henderson/PA)

On Monday, Wycombe MP Steve Baker, who is also a Northern Ireland Office minister, told the PA news agency: This is a tragic incident and its vital we leave space for the police to conduct their inquiries and, for that reason, I dont want to say much about this continuing inquiry.

But my heart goes out to the young mans family and friends who I do not doubt will feel devastated.

For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up.

Easton Street remained cordoned off on Monday evening as police officers in white forensic suits entered properties and searched front gardens.

One local business owner, whose premises back onto the site of the police investigation, said he was scared.

Akib Tayyab, 28, branch manager of QV Traditional Turkish Barber, said: It was scary because it is behind my shop. Im scared this happened. It is very dangerous.

I hope the police catch them soon because this is not good for our town.

Video footage from Mr Tayyabs premises showed two police tents remained in place in the small car park where the teenager is reported to have been killed.

Mr Tayyab added: You see too much drug dealers and homeless people around here. Its not good.

Saravnan Karuvayan, 46, the manager of Kappad restaurant on High Street, said: I was shocked. We have never had anything like this before.

Were worried because people might think its not a nice place for safety.

Rav Lam, 34, a shop assistant at Londis on High Street, said: I was working here after 7pm on Sunday. Some people told me that some boy got stabbed in the hand. In the morning, people came in and said somebody had been killed.

Its very shocking. Its ridiculous. Usually, I feel safe in this area.

A woman who works close to the scene of the stabbing but did not want to give her name, said, while she did not see the incident, she was a bit scared because its on our doorstep because my shop is just 10 metres from that.

Anyone with information or footage which could help the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 43230199275.

The stabbing came after three people were stabbed to death in separate incidents in east London over a period of less than eight hours on the eve of the coronation.

Renell Charles, 16, was ambushed as he left school and stabbed to death, while murder investigations were also started after the killings of 18-year-old Jordan Kukabu and 27-year-old Sebastian Zon, the Metropolitan Police said.

In another incident, an 18-year-old man who has been named by police as Ben Moncrieff was killed in Bath, in Somerset, in the early hours of Saturday.
A teenager stabbed to death near Dagenham Heathway Tube station on Friday night has been named by police as Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, known as Jordan.

Metropolitan Police officers and the London Ambulance Service were called shortly before midnight on May 5 to reports of men armed with machetes near the station in east London.

Officers found 18-year-old Mr Kukabu, from Romford, with stab injuries. He died at the scene.

#APPEAL | Detectives are continuing to appeal for witnesses following the fatal stabbing of an 18-year-old man close to #Dagenham Heathway tube station on Friday night Read more here: https://t.co/w6YtRWUIds  Barking & Dagenham MPS (@MPSBarkDag) May 8, 2023

Police said a second man, aged 20, was also taken to hospital with a stab injury  but his condition is non life-threatening.

A 20-year-old man was released with no further action after police arrested him on suspicion of murder, the force added.

But the same man was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and has been released on bail for this offence.

Police said Mr Kukabus family have been made aware and are being supported by specialist officers.

A post-mortem examination held on Sunday gave a cause of death as a single stab wound to the chest.

Detective Chief Inspector James Shirley, from the Specialist Crime Command, said: My thoughts remain with the young mans family and friends.

Dedicated detectives have been working around the clock since this tragic incident as we strive to identify and apprehend those responsible for killing Jordan.

Our investigation is making significant progress. Local people have provided us with information, which together with forensic inquiries and analysis of CCTV is enabling us to build a picture of what happened on Friday night.

Superintendent Martin Rolston, of the Mets East Area Command Unit, said: I am well aware of just how much this shocking incident has affected people in Dagenham and the surrounding area.

I share their concerns and can assure local people that the Mets investigation is painstaking and completely focused on getting justice for the family and friends of Jordan.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting 8711/05May or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The SNP would undo Brexit as far as possible if the next general election results in a hung parliament, the party has said.

Analysis of Englands local authority election results indicates Labour could fall short of a majority in the Commons when the UK next goes to the polls.

SNP EU accession spokesman Alyn Smyth said his party would demand the UK has a close relationship with EU, in negotiations with a minority Labour government.

He said ahead of seeking to row back on Brexit, the SNPs key demands for the relationship between the UK and the EU would be to secure single market membership and restore free movement.

The SNP is one of the only major parties to support rejoining the EU, as Labour has ruled out any Brexit reversal and the Liberal Democrats have dropped calls for a rerun of the EU referendum.

Mr Smith said: Brexit has been a disaster for Scotland and the UK  costing our economy billions, damaging the NHS, and contributing to the cost of living crisis  and theres been a conspiracy of silence on it from Labour and the Tories.

While independence is the only way for Scotland to regain our EU membership, the SNP could hold the balance of power at the next election and we would use our influence to undo Brexit as far as possible and demand the UK has a close relationship with the EU.

With all the signs pointing to a hung parliament, the SNP could force a minority Labour government to rejoin the EU single market, reintroduce free movement and transfer power for an independence referendum to Edinburgh, so Scotland can regain our place in Europe.

Alyn Smith said Brexit has been a disaster for Scotland (Jane Barlow/PA)

He added: The SNP would also push for the UK to rejoin Erasmus and Horizon Europe, and defend the European Court of Justice, while ensuring Scotland has the power to escape Brexit entirely with independence.

At the next election, voting SNP is the only way to beat the Tories in Scotland  and a strong team of SNP MPs can get the best deal for Scotland, including powers over an independence referendum, a close relationship with Europe and making the cost of living crisis a key priority.

The vast majority of Scots believe the UK Government is handling Brexit badly, according the latest YouGov poll on May 1 which found 84% of Scots and 67% of people across the UK think this.

Only 9% of Scots and 22% of people across the UK told pollsters they believe the UK Government is handling Brexit well.

Shadow Scottish secretary Ian Murray said: This is a desperate bid for relevance from an out of touch and scandal-hit party.

Yet again the SNP is trying to talk up the Tories because they are terrified of a Labour government.

Only Labour can fix the mess the Tories have made of Brexit and build a stronger trading relationship with Europe.

At the next election we will be focused on booting the Tories out of Downing Street and delivering the change our country desperately needs.

Labour will not do any deals with the SNP under any circumstances and it is Tory fantasy politics to pretend otherwise.
The prime minister of an eastern Caribbean country has claimed it is not totally free while the King is its head of state.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew told the BBC a public consultation on whether the Commonwealth realm nation should become a republic will start during his leadership.

Dr Drew, of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Labour Party, who won a snap election in August, has also called on the monarchy to apologise for its historic links to the slave trade, the BBC reported.

Buckingham Palace said Charles takes slavery profoundly seriously.

The King, tries out a drum at a reception at Government House on Nevis during a visit when he was the Prince of Wales in 2019 (PA)

Dr Drew was among world leaders who posed in a group photograph with Charles after attending a Commonwealth reception at Marlborough House in London on Friday, ahead of the coronation at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

Charles is sovereign of 14 Commonwealth realms in addition to the UK, while the Commonwealth as a whole is a voluntary association of 56 independent nations, almost all of which were formerly under British rule.

Ahead of the coronation, representatives from 12 Commonwealth countries joined forces to call on Charles to acknowledge and apologise for the impacts and ongoing legacy from British genocide and colonisation.

In early April, Charles expressed his support for the first time for research into the historical links between the British monarchy and the transatlantic slave trade.

Buckingham Palace said the royal household will help with the academic project by offering access to the Royal Collection and the Royal Archives.

Charles receives the Freedom of Barbados award from Dame Sandra Mason during her presidential inauguration ceremony as the country became a republic in 2021 (Jeff J Mitchell/PA)

Speaking in the capital Basseterre, Dr Drew told the BBC that the research was a step in the right direction.

I think that acknowledging that something wrong was done, acknowledging it and apologising for it, is a step in the right direction, he reportedly said.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: This is an issue that His Majesty takes profoundly seriously.

They cited a speech by Charles to Commonwealth leaders in Rwanda last year, when he said: I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many, as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slaverys enduring impact.

The spokesperson added: That learning process has continued with vigour and determination since His Majestys Accession.

As one part of it, the Royal Household is supporting Historic Royal Palaces independent research project that is exploring, among other issues, the links between the British Monarchy and the Trans-Atlantic slave trade during the late 17th and 18th centuries.

On the references to republics, the spokesperson added: His Majesty has long acknowledged the discussion about constitutional arrangements with the royal family.

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves also said it was his desire to oust the King as the nations head of state after a failed referendum in 2009.

The King during an audience with the Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves in 2022 (PA)

Its something that Im hoping to see consummated, the severing of the umbilical cord between our country and the British monarch, he told BBC Radio 4s the World At One programme.

King Charles knows that, he and I have discussed that in very amicable ways, but Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will remain in the Commonwealth.

The King is understanding of the impulses of former colonial peoples to cut the links.

In his Rwanda speech, Charles said: I want to say clearly, as I have said before, that each members constitutional arrangement, as republic or monarchy, is purely a matter for each member country to decide.

The benefit of long life brings me the experience that arrangements such as these can change, calmly and without rancour.

In November 2021, Barbados became a republic, replacing the late Queen with a president as its head of state, and there has since been speculation that other countries, such as Jamaica, could follow suit.

William and Kate attend the inaugural commissioning parade for service personnel from across the Caribbean during their visit to Kingston, Jamaica (Jane Barlow/PA)

The future role of the monarchy in the realms came under renewed scrutiny following the death of the Queen and controversies surrounding royal trips to Caribbean countries by the Prince and Princess of Wales and Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh last year.

William and Kates royal trip in March 2022 to Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas was criticised over allegedly tone deaf images, which critics claimed were reminiscent of colonial days.

The controversial photos showed the couple, then known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, shaking hands with Kingston crowds behind a mesh wire fence, and standing in the back of a Land Rover.

Belize locals also claimed they were not consulted about a royal engagement, and the couple were met with calls for slavery reparations from the monarchy in Jamaica.

Edward and Sophie also faced calls for reparations during their tour of Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines in April 2022.
Several winners including Jennifer Coolidge, Pedro Pascal and Joseph Quinn paid tribute to striking Hollywood writers during a muted, pre-recorded ceremony at the 2023 MTV Movie and TV Awards.

This years live event, which honours fan favourites on the big and small screens, was cancelled at the last minute amid the major industry strike.

Show bosses said they were pivoting away from a live show as they carefully navigate how best to deliver the fan first awards show we envisioned.

The writers strike  the first in 15 years  began last week after 11,500 members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) stopped working when their contract expired.

The union is seeking higher minimum pay, more writers per show and less exclusivity on single projects, among other demands  all conditions it says have been diminished during the content boom of the streaming era.

The WGA said it had planned to picket the event on Sunday in Santa Monica, California, before the live show and red carpet event were scrapped.

Stars including Coolidge, Pascal and Quinn all voiced their support for those fighting for better working conditions in pre-recorded acceptance speeches during the show.

White Lotus star Coolidge said she stood side by side with those on strike as she accepted the comedic genius award, saying they were fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

This is your sign to re-watch @TheLastofUsHBO  #TheLastOfUs is your Best Show winner at the #MTVAwards! pic.twitter.com/7ufBiDCgxV  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

You know, almost all great comedy starts with great writers, she said.

As a proud member of SAG (Screen Actors Guild), I stand here before you tonight, side by side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA (Writers Guild of America), that are fighting right now, fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

Pascal also acknowledged those fighting very hard for fair wages, as zombie-drama The Last Of Us, written by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, won best show.

The Mandalorian actor also won best hero and best duo, along with British co-star Bella Ramsey.

Craig and Neil cant be here, Pascal said, as he cradled three golden popcorn trophies.

We are all  standing in solidarity with the WGA that is fighting very hard for fair wages. We thank you, we love you.

Quinn also paid tribute to striking writers as he accepted the award for breakthrough performance.

The votes are in! Joseph Quinn is the winner of Breakthrough Performance at the 2023 #MTVAwards  pic.twitter.com/cLFH7SnacW  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

The British actor was recognised for his role as Eddie Munson in the Netflix hit series Stranger Things.

I dont think that people would connect with a character like Eddie or others in the Stranger Things universe without compassionate, intelligent, quality writing, he said.

Being a writer is a hard job. It deserves respect.

If we respect each other, we can cultivate a kinder, more inclusive, more collaborative environment for everyone thatd be nice.

Elsewhere, the shows top prize  best movie  went to slasher movie Scream VI.

Writers Guild of America will picket the MTV Movie and TV Awards at 5pm PT on Sunday, May 7 at Barker Hanger in Los Angeles #WGASTRIKE  Writers Guild of America West (@WGAWest) May 5, 2023

Tom Cruise was awarded best performance in a movie for his high-octane sequel Top Gun: Maverick, sending a message to fans from the cockpit of a plane.

This years winners all accepted their awards via video messages with flashback clips of moments and performances from previous ceremonies played in lieu of live segments.

US actress Drew Barrymore had been scheduled to host the show, but pulled out in solidarity with those on strike  although she said she would return to the event in 2024.

Despite stepping down from hosting duties, Barrymore appeared in several pre-recorded sketches that parodied movies including Cocaine Bear and Barbie.

The Charlies Angels actress was also named the winner of the best host award for The Drew Barrymore Show.
Rishi Sunak has promised to work night and day to deliver, as he comes under pressure over the Conservatives dire performance in the local elections and critics turn on a failure to build sufficient houses.

The Prime Minister was on Monday trying to move on from the defeats that saw nearly 1,000 Tory councillors lose their jobs, as voters turned last week to Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Greens.

As the post-mortem was under way, former levelling up secretary Simon Clarke said Mr Sunaks major mistake of dropping housebuilding had played a role in the poor performance.

Labour was considering putting higher taxes on foreign buyers of UK homes as the party seeks to pressure the Government on the housing crisis.

The Opposition was understood to be adapting policy to increase the 2% surcharge on stamp duty for overseas buyers and banning them purchasing more than 50% of homes in a development.

They could also introduce a rule allowing first-time buyers first access to new developments if Sir Keir Starmer forms a government.

Mr Sunak declined to apologise to the hundreds of Tory councillors who had lost their jobs when asked, after volunteering at a lunch club in Hertfordshire as part of the coronation initiative.

Former levelling up secretary Simon Clarke said dropping housebuilding targets had been a major mistake (Aaron Chown/PA)

Instead, he said: Its always disappointing to lose hard-working Conservative councillors and I said that at the time.

The Prime Minister insisted that delivering on his five priorities, which include cutting NHS waiting lists which he is announcing policies on this week, is what the public wants.

I know thats not going to happen overnight but were going to strain every sinew to do exactly that, he said.

I believe those are the countrys priorities, those are my priorities and Im going to work night and day to deliver on them for everyone.

Mr Clarke argued that the Governments attempts to pander to the publics worst instincts of Nimbyism  wanting building but not in my backyard  was failing.

The Senior Tory MP, who served in Liz Trusss chaotic and brief government, conceded the tumult of last year was behind the electoral failings as well as current policy.

But he urged colleagues not to be raking over the coals of what happened under past administrations and to instead focus on the present.

Mr Clarke told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: In these results, there is one theme that stands out above all others for me is that we cannot out-Nimby the Liberal Democrats and the Greens, so one aspect of policy that does need to change and change as a matter of urgency is our housing policy.

So we can get back to building the homes that people need, making the case, the moral, economic, political case, for building the homes that a growing population requires rather than, Im afraid, trying to pander to the publics worst instincts on this question, which isnt working.

I would say that dropping those targets was a major mistake and I would like those restored.

He also said there was a need to give more resources to council planning departments, to look at incentives for new infrastructure and to take on the hollowness of the Nimby position.

Last year, Mr Sunak caved in to pressure from Tory backbenchers to make the target of building 300,000 houses a year in England advisory rather than mandatory and has argued there is little support for top-down targets.

Some argue that while housebuilding may be needed to increase the chances of holding on to the northern voters won over by Boris Johnson, it will be damaging to the Tories chances in their more traditional southern heartlands.

But Mr Clarke said: The point is that weve lost huge swathes of councillors in the South East while having dropped targets and having run away from this argument, so its not rewarding us in the South East, its actually hurting us.

The Tories shed 960 councillors across England in Thursdays elections in a result approaching the partys most pessimistic predictions.

Labour gained 635 seats and won control of 22 councils, and the Liberal Democrats also performed strongly.

Meanwhile, the Lib Dems hope to add to the pressure on Mr Sunak by tabling a motion of no confidence in his Government in the Commons as soon as Tuesday.

The Prime Minister would be highly likely to win if it reached a vote because he commands a large majority in the House.

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said: The local elections showed that the public clearly has no confidence in Sunak or the Conservatives, so its time for a general election now.

Theres only one reason Rishi Sunak would deny British people a say at the ballot box: because he is running scared and knows hed lose.
A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a schoolboy was stabbed to death in a brutal attack in east London.

Renell Charles, 16, a pupil at Kelmscott School in Walthamstow, was ambushed and fatally stabbed in the chest on Friday afternoon.

A boy was arrested on suspicion of murder in the early hours of Sunday after handing himself in to an east London police station, where he remains in custody.

The attack, which happened close to the school shortly after the end of the day, was witnessed by other pupils.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Rogers, leading the investigation, has asked for images and footage of the incident to be shared with police.

The Metropolitan Police officer said: The arrest marks a significant development as part of our work. Renells family have been informed and our specially trained officers continue to provide them with support.

This is a fast-moving investigation and we are aware that this brutal attack took place near a school, and was witnessed by many bystanders and young people.

My thoughts are with them as they come to terms with seeing such an act of violence unfold and I would ask anyone with footage or images to do the right thing and send them into my team of detectives.

If you wish to submit images or footage anonymously, please share via Crimestoppers, or you can contact the major incident room where one of my team will be able to take your call. You can also share the images via the public portal.

We also know that there was heavy traffic on Markhouse Road at that time of day and we think there is a strong chance some people will have dashcam footage. Please review what you have and send anything that may assist the investigation without delay.

A young boy has lost his life and evidence such as this can contribute to securing justice for his family and friends.

A local said Renells attackers were waiting for him before he died in the street at 4.39pm.

Headteacher Sam Jones said the attack marked the darkest of days for the school community.

A Kelmscott student was tragically killed in a senseless knife attack, he said.

Kelmscott is a large and tight-knit family and this loss will be felt for a long time to come.

Hold those that you love close this evening. I know we will come together as a community and support one another through this.
More pharmacies are expected to close unless the Government provides urgently needed funding to the struggling sector, industry leaders have said.

The warnings come as healthcare providers await Government proposals to improve access to primary care, which are expected on Tuesday.

Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, said workforce challenges have led to many pharmacies shutting their doors for good since 2015, when the sector received a big funding cut.

She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: We are expecting that this year many more will do the same unless the Government comes out and injects pharmacy with some liquidity and funding to keep the sector going.

Ms Hannbeck said there is a 1.1 billion shortfall in funding every year which has resulted in many pharmacies operating at a loss and struggling to pay medicine wholesalers bills.

For pharmacists to keep their head above the water something needs to be done urgently, she added.

Thorrun Govind, chair of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in England, cited increased staffing, energy and drug costs as some of the issues the sector is facing.

She told BBC Ones Breakfast show that pharmacies in England could and would like to do so much more  highlighting independent prescribers in Scottish pharmacies as one example of how sector workers could do more to support individuals with health needs.

When Im working in the pharmacy theres often occasions where I know what treatment is required but I cant provide it because Im hindered by the system that Im working in, Ms Govind told the BBC.

People may need support with fungal nail infections but for example the cost of that is quite high if youre having to use it for a long period of time, which they tend to need, so theyre saying to me, Well I need to go to the GP and get a prescription for that because it will cost me less in the long term.

She said pharmacies could provide regular support for patients with long-term conditions and help people with common ailments  such as coughs, colds, flus and sore throats  easing the burden on GPs.

Ms Govind added that increased funding for pharmacies would also improve staff retention  with workers currently at risk of burnout  and tackle health inequalities.

Pharmacists are really accessible  about a 20-minute walk for most people  and the staff there tend to be from the communities from where they are working so actually health inequalities are also being tackled when we have pharmacies open, she said.

Asked about the coronation, Ms Govind quipped: If King Charles needs any support with his neck pain following that crown he can make sure he speaks to his pharmacist.
Humza Yousaf will campaign with whoever the candidates are at next years election, as an MP suspended after being found to have acted inappropriately towards a party staffer seeks re-selection.

Reports suggested on Monday that Patrick Grady was seeking re-selection in his Glasgow North seat for the SNP, despite spending six months as an independent last year following an investigation of the accusations by parliamentary authorities.

Mr Grady was suspended from the House of Commons for two days and apologised in Parliament, saying: I am profoundly sorry for my behaviour and I deeply regret my actions and their consequences.

Pushed on the whether he would be comfortable campaigning alongside Mr Grady, with Mr Yousaf having pitched himself as the first activist in the SNP leadership campaign and likely to take a leading role in the general election, the First Minister said: If hes gone through the assessment, cleared the assessment process and the local constituency party, of course, has selected him, then I will be up and down the country campaigning with whoever the candidates are.

Humza Yousaf was speaking as he visited a community larder in Dundee (Jane Barlow/PA)

But thats a hypothetical point.

But Mr Yousaf also hinted it was not a foregone conclusion the Glasgow North MP would win re-selection.

Ive not heard anything from Patrick Grady, he said.

But Patrick Grady will have to go through the vetting process as any other candidate will have to do so and, of course, again like anybody else, his conduct and his behaviour will be part of that assessment during that vetting process.

He added: It would be for the local constituency to determine whether or not hes the appropriate candidate, even if he is assessed.

Patrick Grady, of course, was right to be punished by the SNP in terms of the suspension, he was right to then apologise publicly as well as apologise privately.

But, be in no doubt, every single candidate that goes forward for a general election, their conduct and behaviour will be taken into account.

An investigation by Commons authorities found Mr Grady had acted inappropriately towards a teenage party staffer at an SNP event in London, with the victim heavily criticising how the complaint was subsequently handled.

The man, who no longer works for the party, said his life was made a living hell and he had been made to feel as though it was his fault.
The operator of a hydroelectric dam on the Puyallup River and a key executive have been ordered to pay $1 million in fines and restitution after pleading guilty earlier this year to a gross misdemeanor related to a 2020 construction projects pollution of the river.

Electron Hydro, LLC, was ordered Friday by Pierce County Superior Court Judge Philip Sorenson to pay $745,000 in restitution to the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries and $250,000 in penalties, according to a news release from the Washington State Attorney Generals Office, whose environmental protection division prosecuted the case.

Chief operating officer Thom Fischer was ordered to pay $5,000 in penalties. All penalties will be paid to Pierce County.

The fines and restitution, believed to be the largest ever for an environmental crime in Washington state law history, were recommended by the Attorney Generals Office in February, when a deal was struck on the day that Fischers trial was set to begin.

In 2022, the Attorney Generals Office filed 36 criminal charges against Electron Hydro and Fischer, including for violations of the states Water Pollution Control Act and Pierce County Code. The company and Fischer ultimately pleaded guilty to operating an unlawful hydraulic project. Fischer, who had faced nearly a year in jail, will avoid doing any time as long as he abides with terms of his sentence and doesnt violate any laws.

In summer 2020, an Electron Hydro construction project spilled toxic debris into the river, where it flowed for 10 days, after a plastic liner ripped. The liner had been covering artificial field turf laced with crumb rubber  neither of which the company was permitted to use as part of the project, according to the Attorney Generals Office.

The crumb rubber contained a chemical that is highly toxic to coho salmon, the Attorney Generals Office said, and the Tribe found and removed turf from the river as late as March. Attorneys for Electron Hydro and Fischer had said there was no evidence that any fish were harmed by the spill.

In a statement Monday, Attorney General Bob Ferguson said the restitution directs critical resources towards restoring the Puyallup River from the damage cause(d) by Electron Hydros criminal conduct.

The Puyallup Tribe has been a steward of the Puyallup River for generations, and the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries is best positioned to preserve, restore and enhance the river, Ferguson said.

The Puyallup Tribe did not immediately respond to a message seeking a comment on Monday, which was a Tribal holiday, according to an automatic reply email from a Tribal spokesperson.

In February, attorneys for Electron Hydro and Fischer emphasized that the river was unintentionally polluted during a project to improve operations at the plant, which provides renewable energy to more than 20,000 customers in Pierce County.

In a statement Monday, an attorney representing the company and Fischer said that both were thankful that the states case had concluded and were pleased that restitution will be invested in fisheries enhancement on the Puyallup River.

Electron looks forward to moving ahead with installation of fish and sediment exclusion facilities in the river to prevent harm to fish, the statement read. The company would then return to providing renewable energy for the community while protecting and enhancing the fishery.

The Puyallup Tribe previously criticized the case outcome as falling short of accountability, saying in February that the pollution was intentional and that Electron Hydro and Fischer had ignored concerns from the companys staff and biologist.

The end of the criminal matter related to the pollution does not resolve ongoing civil cases against Electron Hydro, according to the Attorney Generals Office.
The Biden administration approved a plan late last week backed by New York state leaders to charge commuters an increased fee to enter Manhattan in an effort to reduce congestion and improve the city's air quality.

The so-called congestion pricing plan  authorized Friday afternoon by the Transportation Department's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)  has received support from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams, but it has faced fierce opposition from fellow Democrat New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and a wide coalition of bipartisan federal lawmakers.

"Todays decision by the U.S. Department of Transportation to allow New Yorks congestion pricing plan to move forward is unfair and ill-advised," Murphy said in a statement. "The Administrations decision to move forward without a true environmental impact study undercuts some of the Administrations own long-term goals, including the Justice40 initiative."

President Joe Biden's Justice40 initiative is a part of his environmental justice agenda, requiring 40% of certain federal investments to flow to disadvantaged communities that are "marginalized, underserved, and overburdened by pollution."

NEW YORK CLIMATE LAW DEFINES RITZY COMMUNITIES WITH MILLION-DOLLAR HOMES AS 'DISADVANTAGED'

"Since day one, Ive stood against the disproportionate negative impacts of congestion pricing on New Jerseyans  a greater financial burden on New Jersey commuters, double tolling, toll shopping, a lack of revenue for NJ TRANSIT, outsized environmental burdens on certain North Jersey communities, and financial impacts on the Port Authoritys capital budget," Murphy continued.

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"Everyone in the region deserves access to more reliable mass transit, but placing an unjustified financial burden on the backs of hardworking New Jersey commuters is wrong," the New Jersey governor added. "Simply put, it is a money grab."

Murphy said his administration would closely assess all legal options.

TOP NEW YORK REPUBLICAN SCORCHES STATE DEMS' EFFORT TO BAN GAS STOVES: 'AN ATTACK ON WORKING PEOPLE'

In addition, a group of Democrat lawmakers led by Rep. Mikie Sherrill and joined by Democrat Reps. Frank Pallone, Bill Pascrell, Donald Payne and Bonnie Watson Coleman argued in a letter to Hochul last week that the congestion pricing plan is an "unfair hit against New Jersey families" that will double the toll tax 400,000 New Jersey commuters pay.

Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., separately said that while he supports the concept of a congestion pricing plan, the current proposal would increase pollution. He argued the plan forces traffic into the Bronx and said the New York City borough shouldn't be treated as a "dumping ground for Manhattans diesel truck traffic."

Democrat New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been strong proponents of congestion pricing that officials said would reduce pollution.

And Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., added the FHWA was doing the New York state government's "bidding" after it published its approval Friday. Gottheimer and Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., introduced legislation earlier this year that would strip federal funding from infrastructure projects in New York unless the state exempted commuters from all congestion pricing fees.

"The U.S. Department of Transportation has ignored serious environmental impacts by moving to the next step with New Yorks and the MTAs cash-grabbing Congestion Tax," Gottheimer said in a statement. "By the MTAs own admission, their Congestion Tax plan would increase air pollution in New Jersey this year and until 2045."

SOCIALISTS CHEER DEM STATES CLIMATE BILL MANDATING FOSSIL FUEL SHUTDOWN: WILL TRANSFORM NEW YORK

In a letter to New York officials Friday, the FHWA approved the release of the proposal's final environmental assessment, one of the final hurdles the project faced. The agency said it determined the assessment met the statutory threshold to move forward.

Under the plan, which the state is planning to begin implementing in less than 12 months, commuters entering midtown or downtown Manhattan could be hit with a fee of up to $23 during peak hours and up to $12 during nighttime hours. The program is projected to boost state revenue by about $1 billion.

Commuters would have to pay up to $23 extra in tolls to enter busy parts of New York City under the proposal.

"Governor Hochul is committed to implementing congestion pricing to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and support our public transit system," John Lindsay, a spokesperson for Gov. Hochul, told Fox News Digital in a statement on Monday. "Weve worked closely with partners across government and with community members over the last four years to develop a plan that will achieve these goals."

"The finding of legal sufficiency is a critical step that will allow our Environmental Assessment to be publicly available for anyone to read, and we will continue to work with our partners to move congestion pricing forward," Lindsay continued.

Adams similarly touted the FHWA action.

"The federal government has given congestion pricing another green light, and we're ready to get it done right," he tweeted. "This is about more than reducing traffic. We'll invest in our transit system and clean up the air in the most polluted communities. We won't leave them behind."
The response at the White House to a high-profile mass shooting has become routine.

The White House press office puts out a statement. President Joe Biden offers prayers for the victims and thanks first responders. And he calls on Congress to pass comprehensive gun reform, including legislation to ban semi-automatic weapons.

On Monday, a day after a shooter at a shopping mall in Cleveland, Texas killed at least eight people and wounded seven more, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre placed the blame at the feet of Republicans in Congress.

This is a crisis, Jean-Pierre said. It is a crisis that Republicans in Congress are refusing to address. Were talking about the number 1 killer of kids in America and the Republicans are saying theres nothing we can do about it.

The White House is pushing for a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, stronger background checks, universal background checks, requiring safe storage and ending immunity for gun manufacturers.

None of it is likely to get through Congress.

The Republican senators who represent Kansas and Missouri, and most of the Republicans who represent the Kansas City area in the House did not respond to a question asking if there was any legislation they would support to address gun violence in the country.

One Missouri Republican, Rep. Eric Burlison, introduced legislation earlier this year to loosen gun laws by repealing the National Firearms Act. Rep. Mark Alford, who represents the eastern Kansas City suburbs, signed on as a co-sponsor.

Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Kansas Republican, supports a bill that would use unspent COVID-19 money to allow schools to strengthen their security measures and legislation to provide more federal funding for programs that focus on mental and behavorial health. He does not support legislation that would restrict guns.

As a father of four young kids, Rep. LaTurner is hopeful that we can get one or both of these bills across the finish line and signed into law in the near future, said Mike Howard, LaTurners spokesman.

Will Bensur, a spokesman for Sen. Roger Marshall, said after the story published that the Kansas Republican also supports focusing on adding security measures to schools and focusing on mental health, rather than legislation dealing directly with guns.

Last Congress, Democrats and Republicans were able to strike a deal on legislation that largely focused on the mental health aspect of mass shootings, including enhancing mental health background checks on people under 21 who try to buy a weapon and providing financial support for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, a provision pushed by former Sen. Roy Blunt, a Missouri Republican who retired from Congress in January.

None of House Republicans from Missouri or Kansas supported the legislation. Blunt was the only senator from the Kansas City region to offer his support.

In a February poll by St. Louis University and YouGov, only 39% of Missourians supported the ban of semi-automatic weapons and the same amount supported a ban of magazine clips for semi-automatic weapons. Theres particularly low enthusiasm for the ideas from Republicans, among whom 20% supported banning semi-automatic weapons and 18% supported banning magazine clips for the weapons.

But when it came to other policy areas, like background checks, raising the minimum age to purchase a weapon and red flag laws, there was bipartisan support among Missourians  69% of Missourians supported mental health background checks, 79% supported criminal background checks, 69% supported raising the age limit to 21, 60% supported a 72 hour waiting period before obtaining a gun and 60% supported a red flag law.

Jean-Pierre said that Biden has signed a number of executive orders attempting to address gun violence but that hes mostly attempting to use the bully pulpit of the presidency to urge for change.

Other Democrats have followed suit, despite a Congress where it is notoriously difficult to pass substantial gun legislation.

Rep. Davids believes that protecting our communities from the threat of gun violence should not be a partisan issue, said Zac Donley, Davids spokesman. Thats why she voted with Republicans last year to protect Kansas children, keep our schools safe, and reduce the threat of gun violence across the country. She continues to support common sense gun safety measures, like universal background checks and closing loopholes in gun purchases.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, has repeatedly called for Congress to pass legislation to address gun violence. For more than a year, Cleaver has walked out of the House every time someone offers a prayer for victims of a shooting, saying he believes it is hypocritical for Congress to pray when they are not taking action.

Moses was able to lead his people across the Red Sea in the most perilous of situations, so I will never say that miracles are impossible, Cleaver said Tuesday, after the story published. But it might take an act from God to provide a path forward during the 118th Congress.
U.S. flags decorate tents at an encampment of homeless veterans along San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood in 2020. Gov. Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers are working on mental health reforms aimed at increasing treatment for those in need, including many Californians living on the streets. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Theres a bipartisan attempt in the state Legislature to finally finish the mental health reform that Gov. Ronald Reagan and lawmakers began 56 years ago. They botched the job back then.

Their failure is a major reason why so many homeless people are living on California streets today.

The 1967 reform was a splendid idea. It just didnt get implemented as promised. Now it needs to be updated  altered to address the realities of mental health care  and given more money.

The reforms under Reaganeliminated warehousing of mentally ill patients  frequently against their will  in depressing, oft-oppressive state hospitals. Everyone was told that the patients could be better treated in their local communities, close to family and friends.

Great concept  except that neither the state nor local governments kicked in enough money for the treatment. Former patients  and thousands who should have been patients  wound up sleeping on downtown streets or in city parks or under freeways.

The reform also worked against mentally ill people getting treatment because it became much more difficult to force them into care. They had to volunteer for it in most cases. And many refused to acknowledge  or didnt even know  that they were sick.

The 1967 acts bipartisan authors  conservative Assemblyman Frank Lanterman (R-La Canada), liberal Sen. Nicholas Petris (D-Oakland) and centrist Sen. Alan Short (D-Stockton)  were well-meaning. But as usual in Sacramento, legislation was enacted and there was virtually no followup. Mental health care was dumped in the laps of counties that couldnt handle it.

I suspected then and still do that Reagans main motive was to cut state spending. He was quick to close state hospitals. But he wasnt about to send lots more state money to counties for local care. The rookie governor was fighting a budget deficit, and he even raised taxes.

Plenty of succeeding governors also have failed to pour needed money into local mental health treatment.

But Gov. Gavin Newson wants to change that.

Hes proposing a bond measure  in the $3 billion to $5 billion range  that would create housing and treatment facilities for 10,000 more people with behavioral health problems. The measure, if approved by the Legislature, would go on next years state ballot.

Newsom also proposes to redirect $1 billion annually from the so-called millionaires tax to operate the new facilities. That comes from a 2004 ballot initiative designed to help fund local mental health services. It generates about $3.3 billion a year.

Republicans had a better idea last year than Newsoms bond measure, which would require interest payments. They proposed spending $10 billion of the then-nearly $100-billion state surplus on facilities that would provide mental health and substance abuse treatment for homeless people. But the GOP had no clout, and now theres a projected deficit.

Last year, the Legislature did approve Newsoms proposed CARE Court. It will allow family members and medical professionals to petition a judge to order an evaluation of a mentally ill or addicted person and suggest a treatment plan. But it wont compel anyone to undergo treatment. That would be voluntary.

A coalition of disability and civil rights groups asked the California Supreme Court to throw out the CARE Court program, saying it violated constitutional rights of due process and equal protection. The court recently rejected the request, and the program will be launched this fall.

The leading legislative advocate for re-reforming Californias mental health care programs is state Sen. Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton), new chair of the Senate Health Committee.

She jockeyed Newsoms CARE Court bill through the Legislature and will also handle his bond measure.

But her main bill this year would make it easier for people in extreme psychological distress who need treatment to be detained against their will by police, crisis teams and mental health providers. The measure, SB 43, has passed two Senate committeeswith unanimous votes.

Under current law, people can be detained involuntarily only if theyre deemed to be a danger to themselves or others, or gravely disabled. But all that is difficult to prove. Eggmans bill would significantly lower the bar so the sickest of people dont fall through the cracks and splatter on the sidewalks, she says.

The same coalition that fought the CARE Court also opposes SB 43, contending it would deprive people of their fundamental rights and liberty.

Im tired of people dying on the street with their rights on, Eggman counters.

Oftentimes they dont even understand something is wrong with them. If they dont want treatment, they dont have to take it. They go back and live off the dumpster. These are folks being victimized on the street  abused, beaten up, raped.

It is not progressive, it is not compassionate to allow people to suffer to the degree we see them on the street. Its not good for public health. Its not good for the general population.

Eggmans aunt Barbara was one of the sufferers. That was part of my childhood, she recalls.

Her aunt would be held for observation for 72 hours and then be released, never getting long-term help. Thats common. After one short-term detention, she was gang-raped and soon died of AIDS.

Eggmans bill is strongly supported by the Legislatures two Republican leaders: Sen. Brian Jones of Santee and Assemblyman James Gallagher of Yuba City.

The goal is to get people stabilized and ultimately back into productive life, Gallagher says. They need shelter and services  treatment, job training, transitional housing  as opposed to just putting somebody in a hotel room without services and expecting them to get better.

What weve been doing for decades hasnt worked very well. We should try something different. Its long past time for the state to keep a half-century-old promise.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Herald-Leader is profiling the major candidates for the GOP nomination for Kentucky governor. Read the other profiles at Kentucky.com in coming days.

Daniel Cameron has been hailed as a rising star in the Republican Party for years.

A standout appearance at the 2020 Republican National Convention exposed the first-term Kentucky attorney general to a wider audience, which hes bolstered in the years since with frequent appearances on Fox News. Hes the first Black person independently elected to statewide office in Kentucky history, and hes cultivated relationships with both former president Donald Trump and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

But before he can continue that ascent, hell have to best 11 other Republicans who are also vying for the Governors Mansion in the May 16 primary. While all the public polls so far show Cameron is poised to come out on top, the field has narrowed as Election Day has drawn nearer.

Two of the front-runners  Cameron and former ambassador Kelly Craft  have been embroiled in an increasingly contentious battle for the nomination. The two campaigns  and PACs backing them  have spent millions on attack ads, and the candidates have been unafraid to take jabs at one another in the press and on the rare occasion they share a stage.

Cameron is no stranger to being attacked, though. His offices handling of the investigation into the fatal 2020 Louisville Metro Police shooting of Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman, has been scrutinized nationally.

Im ready to be the governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and want to help serve for the remainder of this decade as the governor, Cameron said. Weve had failed leadership from Andy Beshear. ... We need a new direction, someone who reflects the values of the men, women and children of all 120 counties.

Cameron on the issues

Restoring Kentucky values: As a big-picture issue, Cameron said Kentucky needs a governor who respects the values that Kentuckians hold dear  unlike Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear. For most folks, when you have a governor who is absolutely silent when the Department of Justice refers to parents as domestic terrorists, I think that is a sign that this governor isnt willing to step up to some of the far-left elements of his own party. Cameron also said Beshear picked winners and losers during the pandemic by deciding which businesses could stay open and which couldnt, and that the Kentucky governor has has been close-mouthed when it comes to, at all, holding the Biden administration accountable for the policies at the southern border.

Public safety: As attorney general, Cameron is the top law-enforcement official in Kentucky and has promised to be a governor who backs the blue. He has called for the Kentucky State Police to open a post in Louisville in response to violent crime.

Workforce participation: Cameron said he wants to see able-bodied participants back into the workforce. I understand that there was an expansion of Medicaid and that now includes able-bodied participants. ... We want to make sure this program is solvent for those that are means-tested or medically necessary, but when you include able-bodied participants, we should also make sure that program is transitory for these individuals. So that is why I believe we need to move forward with a work component as it relates to those individuals. If elected, Cameron said he would request to add those work requirements to Kentuckys Medicaid expansion within his first few days in office.

Abortion: Cameron supports Kentuckys abortion ban as-is, which only allows for abortions in the event of medical emergencies that threaten the pregnant persons life. As attorney general, Camerons office has fought to uphold Kentuckys anti-abortion laws in court.

LGBTQ legislation: Cameron supports Senate Bill 150, passed by the 2023 General Assembly. The bill bans gender-affirming care for kids under 18, lessons on gender identity and sexual orientation, prevents trans students from using the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity and stops school districts from requiring teachers use a students pronouns if they dont align with their sex assigned at birth. After Beshear vetoed the bill, Cameron said he set a dangerous precedent for our childrens future, but also endangers their health and well-being. The veto was quickly overridden by the legislature, and now the ACLU is suing to overturn major provisions of the bill; Cameron has vowed his office will defend the bill in court.

Who is supporting Camerons bid?

Former President Trump has offered Cameron campaign for governor a complete and total endorsement, something he frequently touts in ads and on stage.

Hes strong on crime. Hes strong on the borders, Trump said in a video. Hes strong on everything you want him to be. He loves our military. He loves our vets, and he will always take care of them and law enforcement. Number 1, above all, hes with them and hes with stopping crime, so I just want to let you know that as such an important place, its very important to get it right and youre getting it right with Daniel Cameron as your governor.

The Cameron campaign has had strong financial support, having raised nearly $1.5 million as of the most recent finance report.

Throughout his campaign, Cameron has received donations from notable political figures both inside and out of Kentucky, including former gubernatorial candidate Hal Heiner, GOP state representatives John Hodgson and Mary Beth Imes, and Henry Perot III, the grandson of billionaire former independent presidential candidate Ross Perot.

Additionally, a PAC supporting Camerons bid, Bluegrass Freedom Action, received an influx of money to bring its total funds raised this cycle above $2.7 million. Of that, $2.25 million has come from dark money group The Concord Fund, which is well-known for funding attempts to reshape American courts to become more conservative.

Cameron also says more than 100 law enforcement officials have endorsed his campaign.

What Camerons opponents are saying:

Cameron has faced the lions share of attacks this primary season.

The Craft campaign and a PAC supporting her has slammed his record on coal, criminal justice and an alleged ethics violation related to political donations.

Craft has slammed Cameron for allowing the woke federal Department of Justice to conduct a patterns and practices investigation into the Louisville Metro Police Department following the Taylor shooting.

What does that say about backing the blue? Craft said. We need to have complete confidence in our law enforcement.

Cameron was heavily criticized in fall 2020 when just one officer was indicted for his role in the Taylor shooting  and not for her death. That scrutiny was renewed in August 2022 when the DOJ charged four officers for their roles, including the falsified warrant that led police to her door; Camerons office didnt look into how the warrant was obtained.

Fellow GOP candidate and suspended Northern Kentucky attorney Eric Deters has said Cameron cant win because of his handling of the Taylor case, calling it a millstone around his neck.

In response, Cameron said he remains proud of the work his team did on that case.

Why Cameron says he is the best to take on Beshear:

In making his pitch to voters, Cameron plays up his history of fighting Beshear and President Joe Biden in court, whether thats over covid-19 closures or vaccine mandates. He also returns to his oft-repeated claim that Beshear doesnt understand the values of Kentuckians.

He certainly doesnt understand Kentuckys values and Kentuckians need to be reminded of that, Cameron has said. If he understood our values, he wouldnt have shut down churches in the midst of the pandemic. If he understood our values, he wouldnt have picked winners and losers during the midst of the pandemic. ... If he understood our values, he would be fighting daily to preserve our coal industry.

He also touts his Trump endorsement, noting he is the only one with the ex-presidents backing; Trump remains immensely popularity in Kentucky, which he won by more than 20 percentage points in 2020.

Cameron quick facts:

Name: Daniel Cameron

Age: 37

City of residence: Graymoor-Devondale, a Louisville suburb

Previous political/public experience: Attorney General of Kentucky

Professional experience: Law clerk for U.S. District Court judge, legal counsel to U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, attorney in private practice

Learn more: www.cameronforkentucky.com; Daniel Cameron for Governor of Kentucky on Facebook; Daniel Cameron on YouTube; @danieljaycameron on Instagram; @DanielCameronAG on Twitter

Quote: So 2023 is a transformational moment for the Commonwealth. We get to decide how we want Kentucky to look through the remainder of this decade. Do we want someone whose mere presence in the governors mansion emboldens the far left or do we want someone that reflects the values of the men, women and children of all 120 counties I hope you decide that Im that candidate.

Heres the complete list of candidates running for Kentucky governor in 2023
The passenger of a car opened fire during a traffic stop and was killed by deputies, according to South Carolina police.

A deputy with the Charleston County Sheriffs Office stopped the vehicle just before 3:45 p.m. on May 7 on Savannah Highway near Ravenel, according to a news release from the Charleston County Sheriffs Office. A second deputy came soon after to provide backup.

During the stop, the vehicles passenger began shooting at the deputies and struck one of them, the release says. They fired back, hitting and killing the passenger, the sheriffs office said.

The passenger was identified as James Pierce, 28, according to the Charleston County Coroners Office.

One of the deputies was shot three times, according to the sheriffs office. He was released from the hospital after getting treatment for serious but non-life threatening injuries later that night.

The driver of the vehicle was detained, but the sheriffs office did not identify her.

Both of the deputies involved in the shooting were placed on paid administrative leave, according to protocol, the sheriffs office said.

The State Law Enforcement Division is investigating the shooting.

Ravenel is about 20 miles west of Charleston.

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Dozens of former top U.S. diplomats formally called on President Biden to cease all diplomacy with Iran on Monday.

The diplomats' call comes on the fifth anniversary of former President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Iran nuclear deal signed under former President Barack Obama. The letter argues that Biden's current strategy of offering sanctions relief in return for good behavior is dangerous because it "depends not on leverage from the United States but rather on the preferences of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

"Today, we write to urge you and your team to stop all diplomatic overtures toward the Islamic Republic of Iran and instead reimpose the maximum pressure campaign  the only effective policy to protect the American people, the Iranian people, and others in the region and around the world from the Islamic Republics threats," the group wrote.

"The United States should never preemptively set the negotiating table with concessions, not least with an adversary with four decades of rhetoric and actions targeting the United States and the American people. The approach of preemptively offering sanctions relief and that trust in the regime is entirely misplaced and reckless given the regimes record of lying about its nuclear program," they continued.

AIR FORCE SQUADRON IN MIDDLE EAST ARMS UP WITH 'BUNKER BUSTING' BOMBS TO COUNTER IRAN

President Biden is offering too many concessions to Iran and should cease all diplomatic talks with the country, say dozens of former top U.S. diplomats.

U.S. policy toward Iran is weak and allows the regime and its allies like China to bully U.S. interests, the diplomats say.

The signees of the letter include former U.S. ambassadors to countries across the globe and to international organizations, as well as multiple former members of Congress.

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Biden's administration has sought to re-enter the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal since gaining office, but negotiations have gone nowhere.

IRANIAN COMMANDOS SEEN LANDING ON US-BOUND TANKER IN NEW VIDEO

The Iranian regime has grown increasingly belligerent in recent years, and it even faced an uprising from its own people in late 2022 after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in the custody of the country's morality police.

It has also grown more aggressive in the Strait of Hormuz, where it seized two U.S.-bound oil tankers last week.

Fox News' Gillian Turner contributed to this report.
Drag queen Bianca Del Rio and actress Haneefah Wood at an elaborately set dinner table.

Hulu's new competition series Drag Me to Dinner looks like what you'd get if you crossed RuPaul's Drag Race with Top Chef. Each episode, two pairs of drag queens face off to create the perfect dinner party for the show's superstar judges: Neil Patrick Harris, Bianca Del Rio, and Haneefah Wood. There will be cooking, there will be decorating, and there will be glorious, fabulous chaos.

Besides the show's judges, Drag Me to Dinner boasts some pretty big names. New York City legend Murray Hill (so good in HBO's Somebody Somewhere) hosts, while David Burtka produces and helps reveal each episode's theme. And of course, the list of competitors is a veritable who's who of drag, including Drag Race icons like Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme, Dragula stars like Biqtch Puddin' and Merrie Cherry, and legendary drag scene staples like Sherry Vine and the late Heklina.

My biggest question heading into Drag Me to Dinner: How many punny dishes will we be served over the course of the show's 10 episodes? Will queens like Peaches Christ, Kim Chi, and Jasmine Rice LaBeija cook meals based on their food-centric drag names? Will we see Alaska laboring over a baked Alaska or Meatball whipping up some spaghetti and meatballs? All we're missing is Victoria "Porkchop" Parker, and we'd have a full spread.

All episodes of Drag Me to Dinner are streaming May 31 on Hulu.
When the lights went out, Naomi Dix thought shed missed a stage cue.

She worked through the production notes in her head: she was introducing the third act, which was meant to start with a blackout. But it shouldnt have happened while she was speaking.

Later would come the revelation that the countys power substations had been shot up by suspects who, five months later, still have not been identified. Then would come the months of harassment and death threats to the drag performers whod come to Southern Pines on the night 45,000 people lost power.

But in that moment, Dixs sole concern as a seasoned drag queen was the captive crowd in the pitch-black theater.

Backstage, waiting for the music to kick in, her bodyguard told her the power was out. (The venue hired 30 after the protests.) He radioed the snipers on the roof, who reported back that all the buildings had gone dark. There were no lights on in Moore County.

She went back onstage and the guards followed, flanking her on all sides  already worried that the outage could be part of something larger, something potentially violent.

The mic was out, so she yelled to the hundreds of guests in a voice honed through nearly 10 years as a drag queen.

Do you want the show to continue?

The answer was a resounding yes.

She couldnt sing alone, not loud enough for everyone to hear, so she told the crowd to join her in singing Beyonces Halo. As she performed what may now be the most infamous show of her career, the audience lit the theater with their phones, illuminating Dix in the glow of over 300 individual spotlights.

It was like looking into a sky of nothing but stars, she said.

Kind of scared me

Naomi Dix  three-time drag pageant winner, member of the Triangles premier drag family: The House of Coxx and the self-described Pink Afro-Latinx Barbie of N.C.  was terrified of drag queens when she first saw one at 16.

These are like really tall people with deep voices and hair and makeup with really big breasts and really exaggerated hips and corsets and high heels, she laughed, lounging in a plush chair at Queenys bar in Durham. It kind of scared me, and it scared me not because I thought that they were like bad people. It scared me because I was uneducated in knowing who they were and why they were doing what it was that they were doing.

Shed just run away from home to New Orleans, moving in with a much older boyfriend and fleeing unsupportive parents in Raleigh.

She remembers what her mom said to her on the phone after she ran away: You will need us before we need you.

It turned out to be true.

When the initial excitement of running away and connecting with her community for the first time faded, the reality of the abusive nature of her relationship set in.

At the time, you think its really cool, she said. Like Im 16, Im staying with a German guy, hes super hot, he has a business, he lives in New Orleans right off the French Quarter  and then you realize when youre older, That was actually illegal.

After nearly six months away from home, Dix returned to Raleigh.

The Megabus dropped her off at an empty home where she sat on the doorstep until her mother, who worked as a prison guard, arrived. Her mom silently unlocked the door and let her inside. The first words she said to her, three days later, were, You know what time you need to be up for school, right?

LGBT community says concerns in aftermath of Moore County protests go beyond a drag show

LGBTQ protests and policies

Dix spoke about her life during a time when LGBTQ people are facing protests and policies that could prohibit them from doing what they love, and face criminal penalties.

In this legislative session, Republicans in the North Carolina General Assembly have introduced a number of bills aimed at the LGBTQ community. The state Senate passed the Parents Bill of Rights, which would ban curriculum relating to sexual orientation or gender identity in grades K-3 and require teachers to tell parents if their child changes their name or pronouns.

Both chambers of the legislature passed bills aiming to prohibit transgender women from playing womens sports, and several Republicans introduced a bill that would ban any drag performances in public or in the presence of a minor. While that bill failed to advance, it could still be revived.

Dix tells her stories with the bluntness and levity one might expect from a drag queen: recognizing their importance but indulging very little in selfpity.

Shes just returned from weeks of traveling to speak at conferences and perform across the country. Shes even grown a beard  a consequence of not being in drag for two weeks, she says. Dix is not transgender, but she keeps her male identity private and strictly separated from her drag. Only a few people in her life have even seen what she looks like out of drag.

Its nothing to do with fear, she said. I just like the mystery. I like that it sets drag apart from anything else.

For a long time, though, the privacy was more of a practical necessity.

When Dix returned from New Orleans, her relationship with her parents was difficult. They didnt speak about her running away, pretending to live a life where their son never fled and wasnt gay.

When Dix found drag, it added another layer to the distance between her and her family: a bright pink bow around the closet shed been put back into.

The hiding and the inconvenience were worth it, though. Drag, which had at first scared and confused her, became the most intimate family she had.

She never intended to do drag, of course  she never really liked it to begin with. None of the drag queens looked like her  they were all white.

That was until a friend took her to The Pinhook in Durham for the first time.

My name is Vivica (expletive) C. Coxx and I am Black and I am educated, the queen who took the stage said. She was wrapped in a custom-made dress in the style of a baseball uniform, with a bedazzled bat to match.

I looked at my friends and I said, OK, yes! Im about this life, Dix said.

Coxx, the eponymous founder of the House of Coxx and Dixs longtime drag mother, did something different than the queens shed seen before. Her show had lipsyncing and dancing and jokes, of course  but it was also about education. She started her set by talking about consent, preaching safe and respectful sex to the crowd.

Educated doesnt mean that you went to university, it just means educated in a way that you are aware of the space that you take, you are aware of who you are as a person, youre aware of the platform that you possess  and she was aware of all of those things, Dix said. And so I felt so peaceful, and I felt so heard and seen as a person of color.

Not long after, Dix began her own drag career, entering an amateur contest hosted by Coxx.

She was so worried about being seen in drag that she booked a hotel room to get ready in. She still remembers her outfit, picked out for her by the gay salesman at Forever 21 who immediately guessed that she was a drag queen: tight black shorts, a lace cream leotard with spaghetti straps, far-too-tall heels and gold jewelry  she had to superglue the earrings to her unpierced ears.

That night, Dix performed to Beyonces Partition, wobbling on The Pinhooks tall stage in her cheap heels. It was terrifying, but it also felt like an experience shed been waiting for her whole life.

It felt like I was honestly, truthfully who Ive always wanted to be, Dix said. Not even as a drag artist, but just as a person  as a human.

Drag artist Naomi Dix cries while talking about the Dec. 3rd performance at Sunrise Theater in Southern Pines, N.C. and the power outage in Moore County during a press conference at the Pinhook on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022, in Durham, N.C.

A focus on advocacy and education

Dix won the contest, and not long after Coxx was asking her to be part of something she was starting. The House of Coxx was going to be more than a drag family who just performed together  this was going to be a drag house focused on advocacy and education.

Dix had never really considered herself to be an advocate, but she resonated with Coxxs message. Shed never spent much time thinking about LGBTQ+ issues, but soon she found herself speaking about trans rights and raising money for queer youth.

Though shed never expected to be a drag performer, much less a community advocate, she took to the role with an intensity and dedication that shocked her drag sister, Stormie Daie.

I dont remember meeting Naomi, but I remember all of the complications she brought, Daie joked.

Daie remembers seeing Dix bring massive plastic tubs of clothes to shows, taking up entire dressing rooms with gowns and makeup and her endless entourage of friends.

While unsure of each other at first, the two quickly became friends after a Valentines Day show where they accidentally picked the same Beyonce song  forcing them to perform together.

As she found her place in the family, Dix dominated the Triangle drag scene, winning Miss Hispanidad NC in 2017 and bringing shows to venues that had never even seen drag before.

I dont think anyone has more shows under her belt than Miss Naomi Dix, Daie said. Shes everywhere, girl. Shes an air sign  that girl is like the breeze.

Impact on relationship with family

Drag ended up being the final straw for Dixs relationship with her parents. Shed managed to keep it secret from them for four years. In the end, it was a YouTube clip sent to her sister that ended things.

Dix was in drag in the clip, doing an interview about her shows. The email from her mother came a few days after she saw it. It was filled with religious appeals: telling her how she had disobeyed God, of her imminent destruction in hell, her disappointment as a son.

Despite all the time spent teaching crowds about acceptance, Dix had learned that not all things could be solved with education. Some people cant change.

I can no longer be a part of this relationship, she wrote in a long message to her parents. Thank you for giving me the clothes on my back and the roof over my head and the food in my mouth and thank you for giving me life. I love you. And maybe well talk someday, but Im not banking on it right now.

They never responded, and nearly five years later it remains the last thing shes said to her parents. When Dix speaks about her parents now, she uses a familiar phrase:

Theyre going to need me before I need them.

Naomi Dix speaks during the Drag the Fascists rally at CCB Plaza in Durham, N.C., Saturday, April 1, 2023. The rally was to protest the anti-drag show bills being introduced in states across the country and celebrate Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual people.

Moore County protest

The thing that puzzles Dix about the backlash to the show in Moore County was that it was the fifth one shed performed there.

The House of Coxx was expanding its scope, bringing LGBTQ+ events and spaces to North Carolinians in areas with less queer visibility. Since 2021, Dix had hosted a variety of drag brunches and shows across the county, primarily in Southern Pines.

Something about the Downtown Divas showcase in December struck a nerve with people though. Some criticized the fact that the flyer didnt initially list an age limit  an addition the theater quickly made after backlash from the local Christian school.

Dix thinks it has more to do with the location. Shed booked the Sunrise Theater, a fixture of the community in Southern Pines, one the residents are fiercely protective of.

When I bring a whole multitude of people: myself, my cast, my team, my people, theyre like, Wait a minute, now youre starting to move into our territory, we have an issue with that, she said.

Dix knew that shed be walking into a volatile environment on the night of the show. A group of residents had organized a protest outside the venue, gaining national attention after the viral Libs of TikTok account tweeted about the show.

As I was driving through, I even said to my husband, This is the first time that Im going through Southern Pines and feel unsafe, she said.

Theyd planned for this, though. Community groups had chipped in to get bodyguards for every performer, extra security outside the venue and even snipers on the roof.

Performers entered the theater from a back entrance, escorted by security, but Dix went out front just before the show started. Split down the middle, two groups of people stood with signs in the neon glow of the Sunrise Theaters retro marquee.

On one side, around 40 protesters stood in opposition to the show. On the other side, a sea of pink (Dixs favorite color) cheered for the queen who brought drag to Moore County.

She came out and spoke to the pink side, to the ones who wanted her there.

I wanted them to see that when times like this happen, this is not a time for you to stay silent, this is a time for you to show up and show out, Dix said.

Five months later, law enforcement in Moore County have not said if the attacks were related to the drag show.

The investigation continues day in and day out, Richard Maness, chief deputy for the Moore County Sheriffs Office said. Anything that comes up, were looking into it, but I have no information about suspects.

Dix refrains from saying who she thinks the perpetrators were, but she said the events speak for themselves.

When were thinking about these attacks that have happened to marginalized communities, the answer is always the same, she said. The answer is always, Well, we dont think that it really had anything to do with that, and we dont really know what happened.

Dix has changed since Moore County, her friends say.

You can tell that shes working to keep things together, instead of just being together, Daie said. Shes putting in more effort to make sure that shes got what she needs.

Shes channeling the pain from Moore County and all the offenses that came before it into her work.

If advocacy had been an essential component of Dixs drag before, its now the primary directive. Shes spending her time fighting the hundreds of anti-trans bills that have been filed and passed in legislatures across the country.

On a rainy Saturday morning in Durham, Dix shuffles through CCB Plaza in fluffy slippers, waiting on her husband (she married in 2020) to bring her heels. The beard is gone and replaced with foundation and highlight. She blinks in the rain through three-inch-long eyelashes and adjusts the long blonde hair resting on her black dress.

Once the tents are set up and rainbow umbrellas have been distributed to the dozens of attendees, Dix speaks to the crowd thats gathered in protest of Tennessees bill to restrict drag performances in public.

Could you imagine how much of a difference it would make if we were to tell someone today that we love them, she said. If we were just to let people know that it is okay and there is nothing wrong, and that you will not be put in danger by simply being yourself.

UNC Media Hub is a collection of students in the Hussman School of Journalism and Media who create integrated multimedia packages covering stories from around North Carolina.
Failure to charge Marine in choke-hold death of Jordan Neely will encourage vigilantes, Sharpton says

NEW YORK  The Rev. Al Sharpton, in a fiery Saturday address, demanded criminal charges against all involved in the choke-hold death of Jordan Neely aboard a Manhattan subway train.

If you do not prosecute ... you will set a standard of vigilantism that we cannot tolerate, said Sharpton in his weekly Harlem headquarters appearance. The precedent alone is a threat to all of us. We cannot allow this lawlessness to go unchecked.

Sharpton urged charges against two other straphangers seen in the video where Marine veteran Daniel Penny wrapped his arm around the homeless and mentally ill victims neck until Neely was left motionless on the floor.

Youre not going to choke this young man to death and not let us stand up and raise our voices, said Sharpton. From a civil rights point of view, we are petitioning (that) the choker and the two folks helping him are all brought before a grand jury.

Prosecutors had yet to make a decision on criminal charges in the case, although the city Medical Examiner ruled the death was a homicide.

The civil rights activist echoed the frustrated father of Neely, 30, who told the Daily News there needed to be accountability and an arrest in his sons death.

A mental issue on a train is not to be sentenced with death, said Sharpton. This man needs to be prosecuted.

A lawyer for Penny, 24, issued a statement Friday saying his client and other passengers acted to protect themselves aboard a northbound F train below Manhattan last Monday inside the Broadway-Lafayette St. stop.

I dont have food, I dont have a drink, Im fed up, said Neely before the confrontation. I dont mind if I go to jail and (get) life in prison ... Im ready to die.

Neely, with a long history of mental illness and 42 prior arrests, was grabbed by Penny as the confrontation escalated, with the ex-Marine wrapping his left arm around the mans neck as they went to the floor of the train.

Lets start with criminal charges, said Public Advocate Jumanne Williams. How can no one be charged? That man was killed because he was Black, homeless and angry. Thats why he was killed, choked him to death. There has to be accountability.

Sharpton invoked the December 1984 subway train shooting of four Black youths by Bernhard Goetz and the July 2014 chokehold death of Eric Garner during a Staten Island arrest where he repeatedly said I cant breathe.

This is a fusion of both cases, said Sharpton. ... (Penny) does not have the right to set precedent, where you become judge, jury and executioner.
Dr. Candice Moran, 37, fanned their two young children in the shade of Ilus Park Saturday afternoon as over 150 protesters rounded the corner of Oak and East 10th Street in a sea of rainbow flags and picket signs.

Trans rights matter! said the crowd.

Like Moran, many of the Kansas Citians marching had braved the 90 degree heat for this rally, organized by eight metro-area medical students, to push back against restrictions on gender affirming care proposed by Missouri lawmakers.

On April 13, the House voted in favor of banning transition surgeries, hormone therapy and puberty blockers for minors, sending it to the Senate. Then, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed emergency rules limiting a doctors ability to provide gender-affirming care. As of April 27, under this rule, doctors would be unable to provide this care to minors until all of the patients documented mental health issues have been treated and resolved.

But, a St. Louis County judge extended an order Thursday blocking enforcement of the rule until at least July 24.

For Moran, a Kirksville native, the ongoing efforts to restrict care felt personal.

There is not one area of my life that is not impacted, Moran said.

Both Moran and their seven year old child are non-binary. Moran also works as a psychologist, providing guidance and care to medical students around Kansas City.

They were among a large crowd of people in the medical field who attended the Saturday afternoon rally.

Some of the protesters came in scrubs and handmade signs calling the limits on gender-affirming care dangerous. At least eight people told The Star they were not comfortable sharing their names for fear of retaliation from their medical institution. Others feared speaking about local politics would hurt their ability to practice in Missouri.

Cassie Taylor, 36, and their child Woods Haren, 8, designed a poster in the crowd of people gathered Saturday in Ilus Park to protest restrictions on gender-affirming care. Taylor wrote You cannot make us disappear in bold letters. Matti Gellman

One of the organizers, Erica Yauney, said she was not surprised to hear many arriving were anxious.

Theres a lot of pressure on the institutions around here to stay quiet and not get involved, she said. A lot of providers are nervous because they dont want to get in trouble.

Yauney explained the rally was prompted by conversations with other students and practicing physicians, who fear the rules will hurt their ability to receive and provide care.

Theyre worried they wont be able to get the care they need to keep on hormone therapies and keep doing what theyve been doing, she said.

The large turnout, Yauney said, was reassuring. Trans community members and activists helped raise awareness for the event and jumped on stage to speak to the crowd.

They want to erase us

President of the LGBTQ Caucus of the Kansas Democratic Party Jae Moyer thanked the large group for standing up for trans healthcare.

They want to erase us, Moyer said to a boos from across the audience.

We only win by making members of the LGBTQ community know they are not alone, they said.

Slowly the microphone was passed to other activists and medical professionals passionate about providing gender-affirming care. One family care doctor, Quinn Jackson, who is transgender, said the rules force doctors to practice medicine with their hands tied behind their backs.

It truly is one of the greatest honors of my life to take care of my community and provide [gender-affirming care] to them, Jackson said.

To the trans people in the audience, know that you are vibrant and beautiful and deserve to be treated with love and celebration, not just tolerance.

Woods Haren, 8, lifted a sign they had drawn in the crowd of people gathered Saturday in Ilus Park to protest restrictions on gender-affirming care. Matti Gellman

Dr. Candice Moran looked on as their children colored in Trans Rights Matter posters and the speeches came to a close.

Like many of the other medical professionals, Moran had been trying to teach doctors and students about carving out safe spaces for trans people since they started practicing in 2012.

In the final moments of the rally, Moran confessed that they are nervous for future aspiring trans and non-binary doctors.

The students Ive worked with, these people are scared. People are wondering to what extent do we leave [Missouri] and to what extent do we stay and fight, Moran said.

Why would they want to go to school or take residency in states where its not safe for them or their patients?

Over the last decade, many colleagues and other medical professionals questioned why Moran chose to work in Missouri and speak about supporting trans youth.

When Ive tried to share who I am, theyve said Well, why does that matter? They felt it should be completely separate. But who we are impacts everything we do, Moran said.

For their own childs well-being, Moran hopes more doctors find the strength to speak out.

Were here, were not going anywhere, Moran said of non-binary and trans people.

Fight with us.
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation Monday banning Chinese citizens from purchasing land in Florida unless they are also a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

"We don't want the [Chinese Communist Party] in the Sunshine State," DeSantis said at a press conference in Brooksville, Florida. "We want to maintain this as the free state of Florida."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to Iowa voters on March 10, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa.

ARE CHINESE CRANES BEING USED FOR SURVEILLANCE AT US PORTS? HOUSE GOP VISITS PORT OF MIAMI TO FIND OUT

The Republican governor highlighted concerns about the CCP making a "concerted effort to acquire farmland throughout the United States," including in Florida.

"Food security is also national security, and so we don't want the CCP in charge of any food production," DeSantis said.

China owned 352,140 acres of U.S. land in 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 1% of total foreign-held acres. Canadian investors owned 12.4 million acres the same year, the most of any foreign country.

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Senate Bill 264 also bans citizens of Russia, Iran, Syria, North Korea, Cuba and Venezuela  labeled "countries of concern"  from owning land within 10 miles of military bases and critical infrastructure like airports and power plants. But only residents of China would be banned from owning land anywhere in Florida.

Then-Vice President Xi Jinping talks with an American farmer as they sit in the cab of a tractor on Feb. 16, 2012, in Maxwell, Iowa.

TOP SENATOR PUSHES BAN ON ALL CHINESE PURCHASES OF US LAND: 'NOT ONE MORE INCH'

Dozens of Chinese-Americans testified against the bill last month, fearing it could lead to discrimination. Others worried it would prevent them from buying homes if they haven't yet become lawful permanent residents.

"Once they pass it, I wont be able to buy a house here in Florida," H-1B visa holder Zihua He said, the Tallahassee Democrat reported. "Its a part of my American dream."

Other states, such as Texas, are considering similar measures, and Sen. Tom Cotton has introduced national legislation calling for a full ban on those associated with China from buying real estate on American soil.

DeSantis signed two additional bills aimed at reducing China's influence in Florida.

SB 258 blocks access to apps like TikTok on government-issued devices and networks. SB 846 prohibits Florida state universities and colleges from accepting grants from "foreign countries of concern" or participating in partnerships with universities based in such countries unless specific conditions are met.

The three bills passed both chambers of the Republican-controlled Florida legislature with bipartisan support.

Another bill signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis blocks access to apps like TikTok on government-issued devices and networks.

DeSantis said he hopes all states follow Florida's lead.

"We really need to have a unified effort in this country to deter the CCP's ambitions and their influence," he said. "Part of that is asserting our economic sovereignty."

During Monday's press conference, DeSantis praised passage of other laws this legislative session, including "kneecapping" ESG in Florida, permitting the death penalty for those convicted of sexually abusing children, cracking down on fentanyl dealers and more.
Gov. Brian Kemp signed a $32.4 billion fiscal 2024 state budget Friday that provides pay raises of $4,000 to $6,000 for law enforcement officers and $2,000 increases for other state workers, teachers, and university system employees.

The budget, which takes effect July 1, increases state spending by $2.2 billion, or 7.4%, over the budget the General Assembly adopted last spring.

The spending plan fully funds Georgias Quality Basic Education (QBE) k-12 student funding formula with a record $13.1 billion in state dollars and covers 100% of tuition for Georgias HOPE scholars for the first time since 2011.

This budget improves the quality of and access to education all across the board, Kemp said during a signing ceremony held at the massive construction site of a Hyundai Motor Group electric vehicles manufacturing plant near Savannah.

Wearing an orange safety vest and white hard hat, Kemp used the construction backdrop to highlight Georgias economic development progress, including announcements of the four largest projects in state history in just the past year, including the Hyundai plant.

As the budget went through the General Assembly, lawmakers added $47 million to the governors request for mental health services, bringing the total to $117 million.

The spending plan also includes $52 million to launch Georgia Pathways, Kemps limited Medicaid expansion that  unlike the federal version  includes a work requirement for enrollees.

The budget also funds construction, planning and/or design of 24 buildings, primarily projects on university and technical college campuses.

Also during Fridays ceremony, Kemp signed legislation extending through 2026 a state sales tax exemption for competitive projects of regional significance, including the Hyundai plant. Kemp said most of those large economic development projects are located outside of metro Atlanta.

Separate from the signing ceremony, Kemp signed a bill Friday creating an oversight board to investigate complaints lodged against Georgia prosecutors and hold hearings. The bill passed the Republican-controlled General Assembly along party lines after legislative Democrats complained it was aimed at district attorneys Republicans have accused of being soft on crime.
An Iranian "Hacktivist" group gained access to Iran's Foreign Ministry servers and leaked a trove of data before defacing the ministry's website.

The group, called GhyamSarnegouni, translated as "Rise to Overthrow," announced on its website Sunday it was responsible for taking down websites belonging to Iran's Foreign Ministry. The group also leaked a trove of data, including identification documents, ministry correspondence, phone numbers, and the names of over 11,000 of the ministry's employees, according to a report from Iran International.

The official Iranian Foreign Ministry website remained down as of late Sunday morning, displaying a message that said it was "undergoing scheduled maintenance and upgrades."

HACKERS BREACH IRANS ATOMIC ENERGY AGENCY, PROTESTS PERSIST

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei

Earlier Sunday, versions of the Iranian Foreign Ministry website in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Munich, Germany, and Seoul, South Korea, were hacked with a message targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"Death to Khamenei, Hail Rajavi," read the message.

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Rajavi likely refers to the missing leader of the Iranian exile group Mujahedeen-e-Khalq or his wife Maryam, who has become the public face of the group, according to The Associated Press.

"There is a great revolution in Iran, the uprising will go until the demolition of the palace of oppression," the message continued.

A fire burns during a protest on the streets of Iran.

IRAN PROTESTS TRIGGER SOLIDARITY RALLIES IN US, EUROPE

Hacking groups have increasingly targeted the websites and services of official government agencies since anti-regime protests began sweeping the country last year, including a hack of over 5,000 government security cameras and 150 websites belonging to the local government in Tehran. Hackers were also able to breach Iran's atomic energy agency in October of last year.

Documents obtained in the latest hack revealed correspondence between Iran and European officials over a proposed prisoner swap of Iranian diplomat Asadollah Assadi, who is being held in Belgium, for Belgian aid worker Olivier Vandecasteele, according to Iran International.

Assadi is serving a 20-year sentence in Belgium for his role in plotting a bombing attack against an Iranian resistance group meeting near Paris in 2018. Vandecasteele was arrested by Iranian security forces in 2022 and faces allegations of "spying and cooperation with the United States, money laundering and smuggling $500,000 out of Iran."

Vandecasteele was sentenced in January to 40 years in prison and 74 lashes for the charges the Belgian government has call "arbitrary."
Within a matter of a few months, this winters series of atmospheric river storms that drenched central California and the spring snowmelt from the southern Sierra Nevada range are fueling the re-emergence of the usually-dry Tulare Lake in Kings and Tulare counties  to the point where it is now plainly visible from space.

Images from NASA satellites orbiting the earth clearly show the stark changes in the lake between Feb. 1, when only a few patches of land had been filled with storm runoff, and April 30, by which time large stretches of acreage within the lakebed had been flooded.

Tulare Lake was once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, encompassing as much as 790 square miles in what is now Kings and Tulare counties. But by the late 1800s it had been pretty much dried up as water from major rivers that fed it was diverted for farming uses and the lakebed was increasingly reclaimed for agriculture.

But the ancient low-lying land has remained susceptible to periodic resurrection from floods during wet years of the 20th century and into the 21st century.

Tulare Lake fed by a record Sierra Nevada snowpack

Record snowfall in the southern Sierra Nevada will continue to send water from the mountains into the Valleys major rivers  the San Joaquin, Kings, Kaweah, Tule and Kern rivers, producing more runoff than dams will likely be able to manage and contributing to flooding on parts of the Valley floor, including Tulare Lake.

Flooding in the lakebed is likely to continue into 2024, which will affect residents and farmers in the area, as well as some of the most productive cropland in the Central Valley, NASA reported on its Earth Observatory website. The lakebed contains farms that produced cotton, tomatoes, dairy, safflower, pistachios, wheat, and almonds.

The last time there was major flooding in the Tulare Lake basin, after a very wet winter of 1982-83, the drying-out process in the lakebed took about two years.

As of last week, large swaths of acreage west and south of the city of Corcoran were under water; so too were large plots of land in the southern end of the lakebed.

Images from NASAs Aqua satellite orbiting the earth show the progression of flooding in the Tulare Lake Basin from March 2 through April 28, 2023.

A warm spell in late April accelerated the snowmelt, adding more water to the flow of the rivers  the Kings, Kaweah and Tule rivers  that historically fed Tulare Lake. But despite a cooldown last week, the snowmelt is expected to eventually pick up steam throughout the spring and summer.

This snowpack is still enormous, and perhaps 20 to 25% of it has now melted, but that means that in all likelihood at least 75% of the snow water is still up there, Daniel Swain, a climate scientist at UCLA, said in a video blog last week. So in other words, the significant majority of what was up there at its peak Is still there even as we head into May, even in the wake of major heat waves, so this melt really is just getting started.

The peak is probably yet to come, Swain added.

Southbound 6th Avenue as it disappears beneath the widespread flooding Tuesday, April 25, 2023 south of the City of Corcoran where flooding is re-creating the old Tulare Lake.
Iran hanged two men Monday on charges relating to blasphemy as summary executions continue to rise following months of unrest across the Islamic Republic.

Death sentences issued over blasphemy remain rare in Iran despite the more than 200 executions Tehran has carried out this year alone, reported the Norway-based Iran Human Rights.

Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare were executed at the Arak Prison in central Iran after being arrested in May 2020 for their participation on a Telegram channel dubbed "Critique of Superstition and Religion," according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.

People protesting simulating being hanged during a demonstration against executions and human rights violations in Iran marching to the Iranian embassy in Madrid Feb. 11, 2023.

GROUP THREATENS AYATOLLAH IN HACK OF IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY, THEN LEAKS TROVE OF SENSITIVE DATA

It is unclear what exactly the two men wrote on the messaging channel, but both were forced to face months of solitary confinement and were barred from contacting their families.

According to Irans judiciary Mizan news agency, the men were arrested for allegedly insulting Islams Prophet Mohammed and claimed they burned a Quran.

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Tehran has ratcheted up its executions over the last year following unrest that broke out in September over womens rights issues after Mahsa Amini, 22, was beaten and arrested by Irans morality police that claimed she was improperly wearing her hijab.

Amini later succumbed to her injuries, sparking fury across Iran and prompting massive protests against the regime.

As of March 2023, Iranian authorities have reportedly admitted that at least 22,000 people have been arrested in connection with the protests, hundreds have been killed and dozens sentenced to death.

Demonstrators in Iran cry out in the streets.

IRAN REGIME UNLEASHES AI FOR 'MAXIMIZING SUPPRESSION IN A WHOLESALE MANNER,' EXPERT SAYS

According to Amnesty International, thousands of minors are estimated to have been subjected to the same kind of torture as adults arrested in coordination to the protests, and have not only endured harsh living conditions in their detentions but "beatings, flogging[s], electric shocks, rape and other sexual violence" against children as young as 12 years old.

Unfair trials, gross human rights violations and summary executions have become increasingly common in Iran since December, when the first execution in relation to the womens rights protests was carried out.

Demonstrators play the role of persons being hanged as Iranian community member takes part in a protest in solidarity with Iranian people in Brussels Feb. 20, 2023.

The director of the Iran Human Rights group condemned the Monday executions as being of a "medieval nature" and said, "The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable."

"The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world," he added in a statement.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The Herald-Leader is profiling the major candidates for the GOP nomination for Kentucky governor. Read the other profiles at Kentucky.com in coming days.

Kelly Craft is running for governor, but if you watch television you probably already knew that. The campaign has blitzed the airwaves longer and more often than any other candidate for governor in whats proven to be the most expensive gubernatorial primary in state history.

Crafts political strategy is to dominate the airwaves, stake out important issues in advertising, bring down presumed frontrunner Attorney General Daniel Cameron and meet voters in intimate settings across the state. At every stop, the former U.S. ambassador to Canada and the United Nations emphasizes one-on-one time with voters and makes a point to thank any staff present at an establishment. Shes also set herself apart as one of the few candidates to have declared a running mate in Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, a prominent state legislator and close ally of U.S. Congressman Jamie Comer, KY-01.

On the issues, shes run a campaign particularly emphasizing alleged wokeness in schools, the drug epidemic and Kentuckys coal economy.

Craft has conducted a kitchen table tour across the state in the months leading up to her campaign, bringing along conservative star supporters like Comer and former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines.

With relatively low name I.D. heading into the race  she was appointed to her posts and has never run for office in Kentucky  Craft introduced herself to voters as a down-to-earth Kentuckian from rural Barren County, in the South-Central region of the state. Craft has largely self-funded her campaign, giving it more than $9 million from her own pocketbook. A political action committee (PAC) supporting her was mostly bankrolled by her husband, billionaire coal entrepreneur and philanthropist Joe Craft.

Kelly Craft on the issues

Education: Craft has centered her education message around issues with perceived wokeness in school and Critical Race Theory, which she says is a major distraction from teaching the fundamentals of reading and math. She told the Herald-Leader that parents across Kentucky have emphasized the issue to her. Theres a real concern over the quality of education, the fear of their children being exposed to an education based upon their woke left ideologies, as opposed to common sense values, Craft said.

Economy: Craft echoed the concerns of other Republicans in Kentucky about the states workforce participation rate, which ranks seventh-lowest in the country. She said she wanted to emphasize getting more Kentuckians engaged in the workforce. She said that focusing on a practical education  including lifting up the trades  will help the state improve on those metrics. In an advertisement, Craft touted her experience on economic issues as ambassador to Canada and the United Nations. She hypes her work with Trump to rip up the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and establish the United States-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) agreement, which largely updated the existing agreement. Among significant changes in the USMCA were increasing incentives for North American automobile production and furthering U.S. access to Canadian dairy markets.

Coal: Crafts campaign has hammered Attorney General Daniel Cameron for his support in allowing a coal-fired power plant in West Virginia, which provided power to many thousands of Eastern Kentuckians, to retire. Camerons office made the decision because keeping it alive would have required a rate increase and the plant did not employ Kentuckians. Crafts husband Joe is a prominent billionaire philanthropist who made his fortune from the coal industry. When asked if she sees a potential conflict between the source of her familys wealth and political advocacy for reliance on coal, Craft said that coal mining is a passion for us and pointed to the familys recent $4 million gift to help build 57 homes in flood-ravaged Eastern Kentucky. We live by to whom much is given, much is expected, and we have signed a pledge to give away half of our net worth, Craft said. ... To say that this is a personal financial gain, now thats laughable, and I would like for you to interview anybody whos been the recipient of our generosity because I dont think they think thats laughable.

LGBTQ issues , Craft has given her full support to Senate Bill 150, which was sponsored by her lieutenant governor running mate Sen. Max Wise, R-Campbellsville. The bill bans gender transitioning, also known as gender-affirming, healthcare for minors and created new restrictions on teaching LGBTQ content in K-12 schools, among other things.

Abortion, Craft has said that she is in support of adding exceptions for rape and incest to Kentuckys trigger ban on abortion but has not proposed any further changes to that law.

Who is supporting Crafts bid?

The top giver to the Kelly Craft campaign is the candidate herself. Shes loaned her campaign more than $9.2 million. However, before the first finance report of this year, Craft had received donations from Kentuckians at a higher rate than anyone else in the race. A political fundraiser dating back to at least former president George W. Bushs 2004 campaign, Craft has connections across the state.

Craft also has some supporters in elected office, including one member of GOP leadership in House Majority Whip Jason Nemes, R-Louisville. The candidate has also hosted fundraisers with several individuals worth vast amounts of money, including local high-dollar donors as well as several from across the country.

A PAC cropped up in recent months backing Crafts candidacy. In April, a finance report revealed that Joe Craft was the primary funder of the PAC, along with others in the coal industry. The report prompted questions from the state campaign finance agency, as state law bars PACs and campaigns from coordinating with eachother.

Among Crafts campaign donors in the latest report were notable rival of U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, Sen. Rick Scott and prominent horse industry power player Bill Carstanjen, among many others.

What Crafts opponents are saying:

Craft has mostly faced fire from Camerons campaign and a PAC supporting his candidacy. That PAC, Bluegrass Freedom Action, sent out a text criticizing Crafts ultra-rich background and has released an ad bashing Craft for not getting Trumps endorsement and for controversy surrounding her empty chair ad.

At a campaign event, Cameron said Craft spent 6 months before she jumped in the race telling people she was going to get the Trump endorsement I got the Trump endorsement and shes been in freefall ever since.

Why Craft says shes the best to take on Beshear:

When asked why shes the best to beat Beshear, Craft emphasized her work ethic.

My work ethic I learned very early on as a child watching my mom and dad... thats why Im certain (Ill beat Beshear). Then also the work ethic I displayed in working to elect president Trump. That work ethic is the reason he appointed me to be ambassador to the U.N., to Canada, Craft said.

She also highlighted the fact that shes made a bigger deal out of issues like the U.S.-Mexico border and the drug epidemic than Beshear.

Craft quick facts:

Name: Kelly Craft

Age: 61

City of residence: Lexington

Previous public/professional experience: Former U.S. ambassador to Canada & the United Nations, political fundraiser, consultant

Learn more: kellycraft.com, Twitter: @KellyCraftKY, Facebook: www.facebook.com/KellyCraftKY/, YouTube: www.youtube.com/@kellycraftforgovernor

Quote: Im running for governor because we dont need another politician making more promises. We need a leader that is ready to keep one.

Heres the complete list of candidates running for Kentucky governor in 2023

Kentucky is electing more than just governor in 2023. Meet the down-ballot candidates
KYIV (Reuters) - Russia carried out drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities through the night, escalating attacks in the run-up to its cherished Victory Day holiday that celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany.

Ukraine said its air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched. Kyiv's mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure. A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people wounded.

It was one of the biggest volleys of missiles and drones yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut, to deliver President Vladimir Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for the holiday.

The military said 16 rockets had hit the Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the last 24 hours, in addition to 61 strikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas.

"Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged," the military said.

Moscow is preparing for Tuesday's Victory Day parade, the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Putin, who uses the 1945 Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany to justify his invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine, which as part of the then-Soviet Union endured higher per capita casualties than Russia in battling the Nazis, and as ground zero of the Holocaust, proclaimed May 8 to be Victory Day, rather than May 9 - a clear bid to separate its observance of the day from that of Russia.

Aftermath of a Russian drone attack in Kyiv

"Recalling the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers today," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, evil has returned. Just as evil rushed into our towns and villages then, so it does now. As it killed our people then, so it does now," he said. "And all the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated, just as Nazism was defeated."

Russia has cancelled or curtailed some of the huge military parades that normally accompany Victory Day. Western countries say this is in part out of security concerns and in part because Moscow has lost so much military hardware in a largely failed winter offensive in Ukraine that has seen the most intense ground combat in Europe since World War Two.

"The Russians still hope to capture the city by May 9. Our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said after visiting the front line near Bakhmut, Russia's main target.

Ukraine, which drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory last year, has kept its troops on the defensive for the past six months, but is preparing a massive counteroffensive in coming weeks.

Russia's costly winter campaign captured almost no ground, apart from around Bakhmut where its forces have been led by Wagner, a private army that recruited thousands of convicts from prison.

Wagner's boss Yevgeny Prigozhin announced last week that he would pull out of Bakhmut on May 10, denouncing Russian commanders for failing to give his fighters enough ammunition. He appeared to reverse himself on Sunday, saying he had now been promised the weapons he needs.

An explosion of a drone is seen in the sky over the city during a Russian drone strike in Kyiv

In Kyiv, three people were injured in blasts in the Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capital's centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyiv's military administration said drone wreckage crashed onto a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capital's two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Drone debris also seemed to have hit a two-storey building in the central district of Shevchenkivskyi, causing damage, it added.

Numerous explosions could be heard in Kyiv throughout the night.

Flames completely engulfed a large structure identified as a food warehouse in pictures posted on Telegram by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, after what he said was a Russian attack.

After air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, media said explosions sounded in the southern region of Kherson and southeastern Zaporizhzhia.

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in Zaporizhzhia, said Russian forces hit a warehouse and Ukrainian troops' position in the small city of Orikhiv. Reuters was unable to independently verify the report.

Separately, Russian forces shelled eight spots in Sumy in northeastern Ukraine on Sunday, the regional military administration said in a Facebook post.

Strikes have also intensified in the past two weeks on Russian-held targets, especially in Crimea. Ukraine does not confirm any role in such attacks but says destroying enemy infrastructure is part of its preparation for its long-awaited ground assault.
More than 158,000 TurboTax customers in Pennsylvania are eligible to receive compensation from the tax service company Intuit, which owns TurboTax, following a multi-state settlement.

TurboTax will cough up settlement money after the company made some customers pay for services advertised as free.

Those affected qualified for the U.S. Internal Revenue Services free file program and instead were made to pay for the services using TurboTax. The settlement covers those using the software for tax years 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Pennsylvania will get in excess of $4.76 million out of the $141 million multi-state settlement. All 50 states and the District of Columbia have agreed to the settlement.

If youre one of the eligible customers, you will receive an email from Rust Consulting, the settlement fund administrator. You will then receive a check in the mail automatically anytime this month.

Individual award amounts are expected to be between $29 and $30 for every year you paid for the free services.

According to May 4 a press release from the Pennsylvania attorney generals office, a total of 158,779 customers in the commonwealth were tricked into paying for the free services.

To find more information about the settlement, you can visit AGTurboTaxSettlement.com.

The settlement also requires TurboTax to stop its free, free, free advertising campaign that promised free services only to turn around and make customers pay.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas distanced himself from the border crisis Sunday, saying the countrys immigration system has been broken "since the 90s" and its ultimately up to Congress to fix it.

During an appearance on CBS News "Face the Nation," Mayorkas dismissed a bipartisan bill introduced last week by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz., that would allow the U.S. to expel migrants for two years after Title 42 ends this week.

"Theres a very important message, not to communicate only to Sen. Sinema but to all senators and all members of the House of Representatives: We need immigration reform," he said. "Everything that the Department of Homeland Security is doing, everything that our partners across the federal government are doing is within a broken immigration system. The president passed to Congress a proposal to fix our broken immigration system on the first day in office."

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas testifies during a Senate hearing on April 18, 2023, in Washington, D.C.

CBS anchor Margaret Brennan pushed back, saying it doesnt appear the Democrats have made the border a priority.

TILLIS, SINEMA TO INTRODUCE BILL TO ALLOW MIGRANT EXPULSIONS TO CONTINUE AFTER TITLE 42 ENDS

"But that's like a to-do list," she said. "That's different than putting your shoulder behind it, picking up the phone and saying, Excuse me, Democrats control the Senate, let's be out front on immigration."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Margaret," Mayorkas responded, "we have been pushing for immigration legislation since day one. And by the way, it didn't start on day one  this is a decades-long problem. The immigration system hasn't been fixed since the '90s."

"Absolutely, and it has only seemingly gotten worse with the set of circumstances we're in now," Brennan retorted.

Mayorkas argued that the bill by Sens. Sinema and Tillis doesnt fix the problem.

"What I would say to the senators, Sens. Tillis and Sinema, what we need is our system fixed, not this Band-Aid solution," he said.

A Border Patrol agent leads migrants to a temporary processing tent on May 4, 2023, in Brownsville, Texas.

Title 42, a public health order that was implemented in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, will expire on Thursday, sparking concerns that the U.S. is unprepared for a renewed surge in illegal immigration.

"The border is not open," Mayorkas said Friday in Brownsville, Texas, alongside Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz. "It has not been open, and it will not be open subsequent to May 11. And the smugglers who exploit vulnerable migrants are spreading misinformation. They are spreading false information, lies in a way to lure vulnerable people to the southern border and those individuals will only be returned."
In God We Trust, which became the United States of Americas national motto in the 1950s during the Cold War, could soon be displayed in the North Carolina General Assembly.

At least in one chamber.

Maybe.

During the flurry of crossover week  the self-imposed deadline of May 4 this year by which most bills had to pass at least one legislative chamber to have a chance at becoming law  a House bill passed that would display In God We Trust behind the House speakers and Senate leaders daises.

House Bill 215 passed the House 94-20 on May 2 with bipartisan support. That means it has a chance to also pass the Senate and be sent to the governor. But the leader of the Senate appears lukewarm about the change.

The bill, which has a companion Senate bill, is sponsored by members of the General Assemblys ultra-conservative Freedom Caucus. If it became law, In God We Trust would be displayed in the state legislature in a similar way to how it is displayed by the federal government in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The bill received little debate during committee hearings and on the House floor. After it passed the House, state Rep. Ben Moss, a Rockingham Republican, said having In God We Trust at the center of the General Assembly chambers will serve as a constant reminder that North Carolina is one state, and part of one nation under God.

Moss said in a news release that the bill is supported by the U.S. Motto Action Committee. The group has had some success adding In God We Trust to different public buildings in North Carolina, including the Bertie County Office Building, according to the Bertie Ledger-Advance. But the committee has also failed, like in 2016 when the Cherokee Tribal Council rejected the idea, according to the Smoky Mountain News.

House Speaker Tim Moore photographed in the dais of the House Chamber at the North Carolina General Assembly on Wednesday, September 21, 2022 in Raleigh, N.C.

Senate leader likes Esse Quam Videri

The Senates top lawmaker, President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, has questioned the national mottos place in a state chamber that already has a giant North Carolina state seal on display behind the dais. The state seal includes North Carolinas motto, Esse Quam Videri, which translates from Latin as To Be, Rather than to Seem.

Berger, an Eden Republican, told The News & Observer last week that he was unsure whether HB 215 would pass his chamber.

We have not had a conversation with our caucus on that, he said in a press gaggle on the Senate floor. You know, In God We Trust is the national motto. Its not the state motto, Esse Quam Videri. ...Im not sure that personally its something I think we ought to do.

If House members still want to adjust their chambers, Berger said, there are other ways to do it without passing new laws.

I dont know why we would, in state statute, set the rules for what the interior of a chamber looks like, he said. It seems to me that if the House wants to do that in the House, they should be able to do that by rule. And if we (the Senate) want to do it, we would be able to do it that way.

In God We Trust became the national motto during President Dwight D. Eisenhowers administration. It followed the historical motto of the United States of America, E Pluribus Unum, which means Out of Many, One.

That was the national motto first recommended by a committee on July 4, 1776, according to the Smithsonian. The motto changed in the 1950s Cold War era when Eisenhower added under God to the Pledge of Allegiance.

Both national mottos still appear on U.S. coins and paper currency. In God We Trust had already appeared on coins before the federal law under Eisenhower, which added it to paper currency, as well.

North Carolinas state motto is on display on the state seal in the House, though the Senates is much larger. The seal is also embedded in the stone walkway outside the front entrance of the Legislative Building. It is generally frowned upon to walk on the state seal.
Less than a day after Mayor Eric Adams announced his plan for New York City to relocate illegal migrants to hotels in Rockland and Orange Counties, elected officials in both areas have rejected the idea and declared a state of emergency in response.

It felt like they were trying to do a Friday night drop, Orangetown regional supervisor Teresa Kenny told the New York Times. I feel like the mayor called me to check a box so he couldnt be criticized for not talking to us, the administrator added.

A similar note was struck by Ed Day, a Rockland County executive, adding that he was stunned by Adamss announcement.

Whatever we need to do to stop this, we will do, the Republican official told the Times on Sunday in an interview. Theyre basically dumping them into a county where were not prepared for them, he said.

Day even stipulated that Rockland County was prepared to issue thousand-dollar fines for any hotels that accepted migrants attached to the mayors program.

Adams announcement also drew the condemnation of Representative Mike Lawler (R., N.Y.), whose district includes Rockland County. Mayor Eric Adams must not send migrants to Rockland County as part of his plan to alleviate the strain New York City is under, the Border Caucus and House Foreign Affairs Committee member said.

Rockland County is not a sanctuary county, unlike New York City and its boroughs, and should not bear the costs associated with the Biden administrations abject failure on border security and immigration policy.

More than 60,000 asylum seekers have entered New York since last Spring with nearly three-quarters remaining under the care of the city, Fox News reports. Adams has converted over 100 hotels in New York City to serve as emergency shelters in response to the crisis.

The move comes as Title 42, a pandemic-era public-health measure that allows Border Patrol to immediately expel illegal immigrants, is set to expire on Thursday as America braces for a potential influx of illegal migrants.

President Joe Biden dispatched 1,500 soldiers to the Southern border last Tuesday in anticipation of the surge.

More from National Review
Applebees Grill + Bar has closed its Shawnee restaurant. It has been operating at 11500 W. 63rd St. for 33 years.

A sign on the door says: Thank you for being our neighbor for the last 33 years. Weve enjoyed serving you here and invite you to join us at any of our other KC metro locations.

A sign on the door of the former Shawnee Applebees.

It directed customers to locations in Lenexa, Mission and Overland Park.

Corporate officials confirmed the closing, as well as a recent one in Lawrence. It said employees were offered jobs at nearby locations.

It added that closures are a part of the normal course of business in the industry, especially for a company of its size and footprint. Closures may be because a restaurant is in an area that is no longer busy, because leases were expiring or other reasons.

The company does not expect to close other area restaurants at this time.

Applebees became a sensation by offering a menu that had something for nearly everyone: appetizers, steaks and ribs, chicken, seafood, salads, burgers and sandwiches.

According to its website, the first restaurant opened in 1980 in Georgia. The first franchise location opened in Kansas City in 1986. By 1989, Applebees International Inc. was headquartered in the Kansas City area and had opened its 100th restaurant. That number eventually grew to more than 2,000 restaurants nationwide before the company moved its headquarters to California in 2015. It is now owned by Dine Brands.

The 1999/2000 Greater Kansas City phone book listed nearly two dozen area locations. About a dozen area locations are currently listed on Applebees website.
It took one day riding along with a patrol cop to make Stoney Mathis want to be one.

Thirty-three years ago, the man just appointed Columbus interim police chief was a linebacker and defensive end on a championship college football team at Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, and was studying to become a college coach.

Then he chose an elective course in criminal justice that required accompanying a uniformed officer on patrol.

After I rode with that police officer, I changed my major: I wanted to be a police officer, Mathis, 54, said Monday during a news conference at the Public Safety Center. I saw how engaged that police officer was, and I decided thats the kind of cop I want to be.

As he temporarily takes charge of a troubled agency plagued by personnel losses pinned to low morale and poor leadership, he continues to emphasize engaging with the public and with the people who work for him.

Every time a police officer makes contact with a citizen, they either make a deposit or they make a withdrawal of respect that citizen has in law enforcement, he told Mondays gathering of officers, city leaders and press. My goal is to make deposits, make deposits, make deposits.

Stoney Mathis answers questions from the media Monday morning. Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson has appointed Chief Stoney Mathis as Interim police chief of the Columbus Police Department. 05/08/2023

That investment in public trust pays dividends, he added: So when somewhere around the country, somebody makes a withdrawal, I want the citizens of Columbus to say, Thats not my police department. Thats not how we do things.

He said he has seen news reports of the controversies here, where Columbus Council ousted the citys second Black police chief with a $400,000 severance agreement on April 6, and said he has encountered similar issues before.

Ex-Chief Freddie Blackmons supporters claimed he was subjected to racial discrimination. His detractors said his micromanagement and poor communications, among other issues, were driving off veteran officers the agency could not afford to lose.

Reading in the paper, you know theres a culture problem here in the Columbus Police Department, he said. It takes a little while to change the culture, but you can change the atmosphere very quickly, and thats my goal, to change the atmosphere.

Hes not starting with big changes or a specific set of priorities, he said, but he does have an initial focus.

Im going to come in and raise the level of morale, thats my goal, Mathis said. Build relationships with the community, thats my second goal.... My management style is I manage by walking around.

The most rewarding thing

Mathis is expected to hold the job for about six months as the city searches for a permanent chief, Mayor Skip Henderson said. Mathis was recommended by the Association of the Georgia Chiefs of Police, whom Henderson consulted.

The city will continue to ask that association for guidance, but likely will bring on a search firm and hold community meetings as it seeks a new chief, the mayor said.

Mathis is not a candidate.

Hes not interested in a long-term, full-time job, said Henderson, who thought Mathis a promising interim because of his management style, saying he works through people, not around them.

Mathis acknowledged he is here short-term: Were going to try to do this as quickly as possible, without making any monumental changes. I want to make some slight tweaks in what were going here, because if the citizens have a perceived distrust of the police department, oftentimes perception is reality.

He got his formative experience with the Henry County Police Department, starting in 1995 and rising to the rank of deputy chief by 2010. He was appointed chief of the Chattahoochee Hills Police Department in 2016, and headed the Fairburn Police Department from 2018 to 2022, when the city reported a 52% reduction in its crime rate.

Fairburn had a population of about 20,000 people and a force of 50 officers, he said. Columbus has a population of around 210,000 and a budgeted police force of 488, though that recently dropped to fewer than 300.

The two cities have some common traits, such as a majority-Black population, Mathis said.

I was with the city of Fairburn for almost four years. Its 70-to-75% African-American, and I built a very stable, quality relationship with the community, and I plan on doing the same thing here in Columbus, he said.

In Henry County, he headed a patrol division of around 180 officers, and learned the value of regularly interacting with residents, he said. His community engagement efforts earned him an officer of the year award from the NAACP, he said, and he was promoted to deputy chief soon afterward.

He had 300 employees to oversee when he left Henry County to head the Chattahoochee Hills department, with 15 officers.

It just wasnt exciting enough for me, Mathis said. It didnt have enough community to address the crime.

But it had another benefit.

Asked for his most rewarding moment in law enforcement, since he chose that career decades ago on a ride-along in Oklahoma, he did not hesitate.

In 2017, the Chattahoochee chief was on another ride-along with a patrol officer called to a medical emergency.

Stoney Mathis, second from right, speaks with law enforcement officers Monday morning. 05/08/2023

The dispatch said, Its a lady having a baby, he recalled.

The patrol officer turned to his chief for reassurance.

We both looked deathly afraid, Mathis said.

A teenager flagged them to the house, where they rushed in and heard screams from a back room. They found one woman on the phone and the other giving birth, the babys head crowning.

I never watched it on YouTube; I didnt sleep in a Holiday Inn Express the night before, Mathis said of his naivete, but I said, Push! ... She pushed that little baby right out in my hands.

The womans mother, who was on the phone with 911, told him: Youve got to squeeze the nose and blow in the face, so he did. I heard the baby cry for the first time, the most rewarding thing Ive ever done in law enforcement.

The newborn was a boy, he said. They tied the umbilical cord with a shoe string, and gave the baby to the mother.

At 6-foot-3, Mathis still has the stature of a linebacker. He admits he no longer has the speed.

But he does not intend to move slowly in building trust with rank-and-file officers and the community they serve, in his new job, he said.

A lot of times, police officers will treat the citizens exactly the way theyre being treated by their supervisors, he said. So my goal is to have our supervisors treat our officers with the utmost respect, so that our police officers treat our citizens with the same respect. And I think it all starts with respect.
Walk into a bar and grill in Platte Woods  a 230-acre town straddling Interstate 29 just south of Barry Road  and youll smell it in the air right away: Businesses here dont have to provide a smoke-free environment. Thats no knock on any joint here that allows customers to light up. It has the legal right.

Kansas City, thankfully, has a public indoor smoking ban  but the measure doesnt go far enough to protect hospitality workers. In the regions largest city, casinos are exempt.

Under Missouris Clean Indoor Air Act, a workplace free of smoke should be the norm. Sadly, from small towns in Platte and Clay counties to Raytown and Blue Springs in Jackson County, thats not so throughout the metropolitan area. (In Raytown, business owners can even allow marijuana-smoking customers to blaze up, now that recreational cannabis is legal in the state.)

But there is hope. North of the river, Liberty, Kearney, Excelsior Springs and North Kansas City have long outlawed indoor public smoking, as have Independence, Lees Summit and other suburbs.

Platte Woods Mayor John Smedley says the potential loss of sales tax dollars a ban might bring is a real concern. With a population of fewer than 400, any loss of revenue could hurt, he told us. He supports leaving the decision to business owners.

But it doesnt have to be that way, public health advocates say. Patchwork smoking laws do more harm than good, they contend.

And casinos? Forget about it. On a daily basis, visitors place bets amid smoke-filled sections at Harrahs, Ballys, Ameristar, 7th Street and Hollywood casinos. And of course smoke doesnt stay out of the non-smoking side.

The people affected the most, studies say? If you guessed workers  with more than 27,000 jobs supported at the 13 casinos in Missouri and 11 in Kansas, according to the American Gaming Association  you would be correct. Theyre put at risk by exposure to secondhand smoke, which can cause myriad respiratory ailments for both adults and children, studies have shown.

Through no fault of their own, nonsmokers  including children and the elderly  are at risk. Shouldnt that account for something? Hospitality workers must be fully protected from smoke in the workplace, advocates contend. We cant disagree. No one is immune from dangerous toxins and carcinogens in cigarette smoke.

In Missouri, public smoking bans are on the books in more than 30 municipalities, according to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit American Nonsmokers Rights Foundation. But no statewide provision exists. This confused system compromises the health of hospitality workers everywhere.

Among adults, the likelihood of heart disease, stroke or lung cancer increases when subjected to secondhand smoke, according to the American Cancer Society. Children are more susceptible to respiratory disease, ear infections, sudden infant death syndrome, severe asthma attacks and slowed lung growth. Each year, 11,000 people in Missouri die from tobacco-related illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Why are we broaching the subject now? Because more than a decade since the movement to ban smoking in public places began, casinos remain exempt.

Could that change in the near future? Perhaps. In Missouri, the St. Louis County Council is considering a smoke-free casino policy, a measure we hope gains enough public support to become a reality.

Of course, well-financed lobbyists tied to the tobacco and gaming industries are opposed to a casino smoking ban. Why wouldnt they be? On the table are potential lost profits, they believe.

But there are more than 1,000 nonsmoking casinos in the United States, including all those in Missouris neighbor Illinois. Giving tobacco the boot hasnt put the gaming industry out of business in those places. Theres reason to believe customers who currently stay off gambling floors because of the stale, sickly atmosphere might be willing to return and place their bets if they could breathe freely.

In the interest of public health, municipalities in the Kansas City area and throughout both states should clear the air. Its time for businesses to put public health first and ban smoking inside once and for all.
A 17-year-old boy was buried alive under several feet of sand after the walls of a hole and a dune collapsed on him on a North Carolina beach.

The unidentified teen, who had been visiting Cape Hatteras National Seashore near Frisco from Chesapeake, Virginia, became trapped in a hole on Saturday (6 May). Seashore rangers responded to the scene around 2pm after receiving several 911 calls in connection with the incident, the National Park Service said.

Prior to arriving on scene, family and friends went looking for the teenager and found him buried under several feet of sand, apparently caused by portions of the adjacent dune collapsing into the hole, the statement read.

Family members at the scene and park rangers performed CPR on the teen without success. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators determined that a hole had been dug in a back-dune area behind the primary dune and not visible from the beachfront, according to the News & Observer. It is unclear who dug the hole.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers our condolences to his family and friends, David Hallac, a superintendent at National Parks of Eastern North Carolina, said.

We urge visitors not to dig deep holes on the beach due to the danger they present to beachgoers and emergency response staff.
Chinese FM calls on young diplomats to carry forward China-Pakistan friendship

Xinhua) 13:21, May 08, 2023

ISLAMABAD, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang has called on young diplomats of China and Pakistan to jointly carry forward the two countries' friendship and promote world peace, justice and progress.

With the presence of Pakistan's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar, Qin made the remarks when attending a ceremony here on Friday to unveil a memorial plaque for the Foreign Service Academy of Pakistan, which was rebuilt on the previous compound of the Chinese embassy in Pakistan.

The visiting Chinese foreign minister interacted with young diplomats of Pakistan and China and shared his perspective on historic ties between the two countries, urging his young peers to be action-takers as well as advocates of China-Pakistan friendship.

Qin said that China advocates that all countries should be independent and follow a development path suited to their national realities, and calls for mutual respect, equality and win-win cooperation among countries.

In addition, China advocates that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and consultation without resorting to force or the threat of force, and that countries should join hands to address global challenges, he said.

The young diplomats of both countries should act in line with the trend of the times and the aspirations of the people of all countries, and oppose erecting barriers, inciting confrontation and stoking "a new Cold War," he said.

Qin noted that the China-Pakistan community with a shared future has profound historical roots, solid public support and strong practical needs.

China and Pakistan must redouble their efforts to ensure the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in order to bring more benefits to the two peoples, the Chinese foreign minister said.

The Foreign Service Academy is the training arm of the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Established in September 1981, the academy has trained hundreds of Pakistani and foreign diplomats, according to the ministry's official website.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By Ted Hesson and Doina Chiacu

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Biden administration and Texas state government are surging personnel to the U.S.-Mexico border to prepare for a possible increase in illegal immigration when COVID-19 restrictions known as Title 42 are set to end on Thursday.

Hundreds of specialized investigative agents and air marshals from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are being pulled from day-to-day duties to help with border management, sources said, leading to pushback from employees who argue they are being reassigned to menial tasks.

At the same time, Texas deployed a specially trained National Guard unit on Monday to target "hot spots" where migrants try to enter the United States illegally, Governor Greg Abbott said.

The moves are part of broader efforts by President Joe Biden, along with state and local officials, to prepare for the end of the Title 42 order on Thursday. The order, in place since 2020, allows U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants to Mexico without the chance to seek U.S. asylum.

The policy shift is expected to lead to a rise in border arrivals as a result of pent-up demand and the perception among migrants that they will be allowed into the country.

Abbott - a Republican who has criticized the Democratic president's approach to border security - said members of the new National Guard unit, the Texas Tactical Border Force, were being loaded onto Black Hawk helicopters for deployment and will have access to aircraft, boats, night vision equipment and riot gear. In recent days, the National Guard suppressed migrant crossings at Brownsville, Abbott said at a news conference, the same city where a driver plowed into a group of migrants on Sunday.

Separately, Biden is sending 1,500 additional troops to help secure the U.S.-Mexico border this week.

In addition, 250 to 300 agents with the investigative arm of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be detailed to aid border operations, two U.S. officials who requested anonymity to discuss internal operations said.

A separate official not authorized to speak publicly said the deployment "negatively impacts our ability to disrupt transnational criminal activity," since many of the agents work on complex cases dealing with illicit drugs, trafficking and other issues.

About 180 U.S. air marshals will be pulled from their jobs securing air travel to help at the border, said Sonya LaBosco, executive director of the Air Marshal National Council, which opposes the deployment.

The air marshals sent to the border will deal with transportation, security and other tasks but not perform law enforcement activities, LaBosco said.

Both ICE investigators and air marshals have been tapped in recent years for border management efforts, leading to some resistance. DHS and ICE did not respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Ted Hesson and Doina Chiacu in Washington; Editing by Mica Rosenberg and Jonathan Oatis)
Three Stockton men were arrested over the weekend, accused of cutting and stealing cable and phone lines in an incident that left a rural California countys dispatch center unable to receive 911 calls for several hours.

AT&T fiber optic cable lines were found cut near Highway 88 and Highway 124 in Ione around 9:30 a.m. Sunday  for the second time in as many weeks at the same location  the Amador County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Deputies and California Highway Patrol personnel responded that afternoon to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked off of Highway 124 south of Ione, according to deputies. The reporting party told authorities that three men fled from the area of the vehicle into the nearby woods.

The vehicle, a red Ford SUV, had expired registration tags and was towed, sheriffs officials wrote. A search turned up evidence of copper wire theft, copious amounts of stripped copper wire and drug paraphernalia inside the SUV, according to the news release.

Authorities also found a freshly cut length of service wire near the vehicle, sheriffs officials wrote. The trio of suspects was reportedly interrupted by AT&T workers responding to the outage when they fled.

As deputies were processing the towed vehicle, one of the three men exited the woods and approached the deputies with his hands up, admitting he was the owner of the vehicle, the Sheriffs Office wrote.

Deputies and CHP officers detained the first suspect, then followed three sets of footprints into a marshy area along Highway 124.

The two remaining suspects eventually emerged from the marsh and were detained, sheriffs officials wrote. Authorities linked all three suspects, who were covered in mud and sticks, to the vehicle and the wire theft.

The three men were identified as Elpidio Rivera, 42; Joel Rivera-Villa, 25; and Hialario Lopez-Rodriguez, 35, all of Stockton.

All three were arrested and booked into the Amador County Jail on numerous charges including utilities theft, interference with power lines, conspiracy and drug possession. They are ineligible for bail, jail booking records show.

The AT&T outage left Sheriffs Office dispatchers unable to receive most 911 calls made within Amador County. Dispatchers also could not make outgoing calls to other agencies, according to the sheriffs news release.

The Amador County Sheriffs Office ultimately forwarded 911 and non-emergency calls to the Calaveras County Sheriffs Office dispatch center, which then emailed call information back to the Amador County dispatchers. Verizon Wireless also provided dispatchers two phones with Wi-Fi capabilities so that they could make outgoing calls, according to the news release.

The AT&T lines were repaired around 5:45 p.m. Sunday, and the dispatch center was able to resume normal operations.

The Sheriffs Office said Sundays incident was at least the fourth time AT&T fiber cables have been cut, with the previous instance reported April 30. It was not immediately clear whether the three men arrested Sunday have been linked to any of the previous incidents.
Copperhead snake bites are the most common venomous bite in our area. In fact, North Carolina leads the nation as the state with the most snake bites.

Internationally recognized snake bite experts and medical physicians work at Triangle hospitals, treating about four venomous bites per week in the warm-weather months.

The News & Observer spoke with snake bite experts at Duke Health, WakeMed and UNC Health to learn what snakebite treatment looks like in 2023.

Heres what happens if you get bitten by a copperhead (or other venomous snake):

How are copperhead snake bites treated?

 Above all, show up for care: If you get bitten by a venomous snake (or youre unsure if the snake that bit you is venomous), seek care.

If you have concerning symptoms, go straight to an emergency department. This can include:

Difficulty breathing

Chest pain

Dizziness

Significant swelling

Any patient with worsening pain, swelling or any other concerning symptoms should be evaluated in person, said Dr. Ben German, WakeMed emergency physician and medical professional with the international Asclepius Snakebite Foundation.

If you do not have these concerning symptoms, you can call NC Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) first. This is a free 24/7 hotline for people in North and South Carolina who want to speak with a medical expert before heading to the emergency room.

NC Poison Control works with Triangle hospitals to determine care, and WakeMed physicians often consult the Poison Center for envenomations.

 Avoid urgent care centers: Its best to go to an emergency department and not an urgent care or clinic. These treatment facilities often dont carry antivenom, said Dr. Charles Gerardo, emergency medical specialist with Duke Health who specializes in snake bites.

UNC Health, Duke Health and WakeMed all carry antivenom treatments and administer it when needed.

 Stay for observation: Envenomations (meaning bites that inject venom into the patient) need at least 24 hours of monitoring.

The worst comes between the 24 and 48 hour mark, when you see how bad its going to be, German said.

Patients with venomous bites typically stay for 36 hours. It can be one or two overnights in the hospital, depending on the time you come in for care, Gerardo said.

Even dry bites require observation. This is mainly to ensure the bite is absolutely not an envenomation, but at a minimum, its to ensure the area will not be infected.

Do you need antivenom if bitten by a copperhead?

Not always. Only about 25% of patients require antivenom as part of their treatment, said Dr. Ryan Lamb of UNC Health Rex, through a spokesperson.

Heres when antivenom is not necessary:

 For dry bites: These types of bites are either by non-venomous snakes or by venomous snakes that did not inject any venom into the victim. They do not need antivenom, as there is no venom to neutralize.

If you received a dry bite from a snake, you typically need eight to 12 hours of hospital observation. Medical professionals will ensure youre not at risk of infection, but more importantly, they will monitor you for enough time to be certain you were not envenomated.

My favorite type of snakebite is a dry bite. Just last week, a lady was gardening and wearing heavy rubber gloves when she got bit by a copperhead. The fangs penetrated the glove, but she had no venom injected, German said.

She came in because she knew it was a copperhead bite, which we are glad she did, so we watched her to make sure. We were certain there was absolutely no envenomation, so she got to go home quickly.

 For clinically insignificant bites: Even if you received an envenomation, its not guaranteed you will need antivenom. Many times, emergency department professionals determine the bite is not severe enough to administer antivenom.

Last year, an 11-year-old boy in Raleigh was bitten by a copperhead and experienced significant swelling. But his doctor determined antivenom was not needed, as the swelling remained in a concentrated area on his body and did not spread.

They didnt have to give him any antivenom, which they said they dont give unless they have to, his mother, Kelly Kivett, told The N&O last year. Some people respond really negatively or have an allergic reaction to antivenom, and they monitored my sons bite for a while, eventually concluding he didnt need it.

Just over a week later, all of his swelling and bruising completely healed, Kivett said.

How much does antivenom cost?

The market price of antivenom does not reflect how much a patient will be billed and how much a patient pays, said Kuldip Patel, Duke Healths senior associate chief pharmacy officer, through a spokesperson.

Most insurance carriers (including Blue Cross Blue Shield, NCs largest carrier) cover antivenom. It is typically considered emergency care. Plus, over 75% of snake bite patients have some sort of insurance coverage, Gerardo said.

The market price of antivenom ranges from $11,000 to $14,000 per vial at UNC Health and WakeMed in 2023, according to spokespeople. For a typical initial dose of four to six vials, this can range between $40,000 and $84,000. Duke Health declined to share figures.

Here are a few real life examples:

 In 2020, a teenager was bitten by a copperhead in Hillsborough. He needed 12 vials of antivenom, which cost about $200,000, The N&O reported at the time. His fathers insurance brought the out-of-pocket cost to $175.

 Last year, a Raleigh woman received a copperhead bite on her finger. Her copay for her Emergency Room visit came out to $1,250 with her insurance.

At Hilton Head Island Hospital, the black line on her hand was used to measure swelling over time from the copperhead snakebite on Carolyn Bivens Cotes left index finger.

What is antivenom?

Antivenom is administered intravenously (through an IV). A typical treatment for a copperhead envenomation consists of four to six vials, but some bites require more.

The medicine consists of antibodies which bind and inactivate the venom proteins. The inactivated venom can no longer cause damage to the body. This typically reduces pain and stops the tissue damage from worsening, German said.

The earliest antivenoms were developed in the late 1800s. Today, the process of designing and producing antivenom is more advanced and refined, but the idea of using antibodies to neutralize venom remains.

Research is underway to develop other ways to treat envenomations. ... Some of these drugs can be given orally, which could hopefully lead to easier means to treat snake envenomations, German said.

Someone can keep it with them, like Advil in your pocket. It can be a bridge to definitive care in countries where snake bites lead to a significant amount of deaths each year.

The N&O reported on Duke Health testing a possible antivenom pill last year.

Do you need to go to the hospital if bitten by a snake, copperhead?

Not always. While you may not always need to visit the ER, it is crucial to seek care.

This can include calling NC Poison Control (1-800-222-1222).

Their medical professionals offer treatment help by phone 24/7. Their advice may be to visit an emergency department immediately, or they can help monitor the situation by phone (and by sending photos via text) in real time, medical director Dr. Michael Beuhler told The N&O last year.

Do home remedies work for snake, copperhead bites?

No. Many home remedies can do significantly more damage.

This includes tourniquets, cutting, suction devices and even ice.

For non-venomous snakebite, cleaning the wound, updating tetanus vaccination as needed and standard wound care is usually enough, Gerardo said.

What to do if bitten by a snake, including a copperhead

IF YOU HAVE BEEN BITTEN BY A SNAKE, YOU SHOULD:

Sit down and stay calm.

Gently wash the bite area with warm, soapy water.

Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite site.

Keep the bitten area still, if possible, and raise it to heart level.

Call the NC Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.

Note: If a snakebite victim is having chest pain, difficulty breathing, face swelling or has lost consciousness, call 911 immediately.

IF BITTEN BY A SNAKE, YOU SHOULD NOT:

Cut the bitten area to try to drain the venom. This can worsen the injury.

Ice the area. Icing causes additional tissue damage.

Apply a tourniquet or any tight bandage. Its actually better for the venom to flow through the body than for it to stay in one area.

Suck on the bite or use a suction device to try to remove the venom.

Attempt to catch or kill the snake.

(Source: NC Poison Control)
After two mass shootings, Serbians rally against violence Protest "Serbia against violence" in Belgrade

By Aleksandar Vasovic

BELGRADE (Reuters) - Tens of thousands of Serbians rallied in the capital Belgrade on Monday, demanding better security, a ban on violent content on TV, and the resignation of key ministers, days after two separate mass shootings.

Crowds in numbers not seen in the Balkan country for years, solemnly marched through the city centre behind a banner reading "Serbia Against Violence".

"We have gathered here to pay our last respects, to do our best so this never happens again, anywhere," said Borivoje Plecevic from Belgrade.

Last Wednesday, a schoolboy who brought two handguns to his schoo, killed eight pupils and a security guard. Six other pupils and a teacher were wounded.

Two days later, a 21 years-old man brandishing an assault rifle and a pistol killed eight and wounded 14 people in central Serbia.

Both shooters surrendered to the police.

Protesters and opposition supporters demanded a shutdown of TV stations and tabloids they accuse of promoting violent and vulgar content.

Opposition parties and some rights groups accuse President Aleksandar Vucic and his ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) of autocracy, oppressing media freedoms, violence against political opponents, cronyism, corruption, and ties with organised crime. Vucic and his allies deny this.

Protesters also called for the resignations of Interior Minister Bratislav Gasic and Aleksandar Vulin, the director of the state security agency, and the dismissal of the government's Regulatory Committee for Electronic Media (REM) within a week.

Education minister Branko Ruzic resigned on Sunday.

Demonstrators also demanded an emergency parliamentary session and a debate about the overall security situation.

"(This is an act of) solidarity against ... violence in media, in the parliament, in everyday life ... solidarity because of lost children," said Snezana, a woman in her 60s who declined to give her last name.

Similar protests were held in several other Serbian cities.

In response to the shootings, Serbia's police on Monday started a one-month amnesty for surrendering illegal weapons. It said over 1,500 were handed over on the first day.

In addition to existing gun laws, Vucic announced police checks of registered gun owners.

Serbia has a deeply entrenched gun culture, and along with the rest of the Western Balkans is awash with military-grade weapons and ordnance in private hands after the wars of the 1990s that tore apart the former Yugoslavia.

(This story has been corrected to change the number of victims in the school shooting to eight pupils and a security guard in paragraph 4)

(Reporting by Aleksandar Vasovic, Fedja Grulovic and Branko Filipovic; Editing by Mark Potter)
On the latest episode of Under the Dome, The News & Observers politics podcast, for the week of May 8, 2023, host and state Capitol bureau chief Dawn Vaughan discusses whats happening in North Carolina politics with colleagues Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi and Avi Bajpai.

Vaughan, Perez Uribe and Bajpai talked about the House and Senate debate over Senate Bill 20, the abortion restrictions bill. From parliamentary procedure to the timing of debate, hear what it was like to be in the room.

The Under the Dome team wrote many stories this past week about the abortion bill that was fast-tracked during crossover week, the self-imposed legislative deadline for most bills to pass at least one chamber to stay alive this session.

They talk about why the bill was criticized for a lack of transparency in the rushed process, and whats changed in the past few years to make General Assembly documents more accessible than they used to be.

Bajpai, Vaughan and Perez Uribe spent hours on the House and Senate floor this week and bring listeners inside the Legislative Building.

Headliner of the Week

Stay tuned to the end for their picks for Headliners of the Week: they range from a holiday, to recognition of certain state employees at the General Assembly, to a shoutout to educators and staff.

Listen to our latest episode below and catch up on previous episodes. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Audible, iHeart, Pandora, Amazon Music and Stitcher.

Now you can also watch video of our Under the Dome podcast on our N&O YouTube page under the Under the Dome playlist.
FILE - Passengers wait in line to check in for their flights at Southwest Airlines service desk at LaGuardia Airport, on Dec. 27, 2022, in New York. The Biden administration is working on new regulations that would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the airline's control. The White House said President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg would announce the start of the rulemaking process Monday May 8, 2023. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

The Biden administration is working on new regulations that would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the airline's control.

The White House said President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg would announce the start of the rulemaking process Monday.

The rulemaking pledge continues a push by the Democratic administration to require airlines to improve customer service, and it comes just weeks before the start of the peak summer travel season.

The aim of the rules would be, for the first time, to require airlines to pay compensation beyond a ticket refund and to cover expenses that consumers incur, including rebooking on another flight, if the airline causes a cancellation or significant delay.

When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill, Buttigieg said in a statement.

Currently, when an airline cancels a flight for any reason, consumers can demand a refund of the unused part of their ticket and certain extras that they might have paid to the airline, such as fees for checking a bag or getting a seat assignment. Airlines often try to persuade consumers to accept a travel voucher instead of a refund.

After widespread flight disruptions last summer, the Transportation Department posted an online dashboard that was designed to pressure the airlines to improve customer service. The site lets consumers check each airline's policy on refunds and compensation when flights are canceled or delayed.

Each of the 10 largest U.S. airlines quickly promised to provide cash or vouchers for meals when a cancellation forces passengers to wait at least three hours for another flight. Nine of the 10  all but Frontier Airlines  also promised to pay for accommodations for passengers stranded overnight.

Questions arose again around reimbursing consumers for out-of-pocket costs after Southwest Airlines canceled nearly 17,000 flights during a December meltdown in service. The Transportation and Justice departments are investigating whether Southwest scheduled more flights than it realistically could handle.

The Transportation Department says it is working with the airlines to reduce cancellations and delays this summer, when air travel could exceed pre-coronavirus pandemic records.

A report last month from the congressional Government Accountability Office blamed airlines for many cancellations, but the Federal Aviation Administration has also created disruptions due to technology outages and staffing shortages. The FAA recently encouraged airlines to reduce flights to and from major New York airports this summer because it doesn't have enough air traffic controllers at a key facility.
One of Floridas regal birds of prey had to be saved from an embarrassing predicament when its potential dinner  a snake  got the upper hand.

It happened Sunday, May 7, outside Gainesville, and it took two Alachua County deputies to break up what amounted to a death match on SW 103rd Drive.

Deputies received a call regarding what appeared to be an injured hawk laying in the roadway of a residential neighborhood, the sheriffs office posted on Facebook.

Instead, deputies C. Dasher and L. Forero arrived to find that the hawk was being strangled by a snake and that death for the hawk was imminent.

Video shows Florida deputies had to rescue a hawk after the snake it intended to eat began choking it in the middle of the road.

Stranger still, crows had begun trying to attack the hawk, believing it was seriously wounded, officials said.

Body camera video shows the battle was playing out in the street and the 3-foot snake (believed to be a black racer) was clearly winning.

The hawk is still alive. Its moving its head, still blinking, one deputy is heard saying. Its wrapped up in (the snake) pretty good.

It took pinning the snakes head to the pavement to get its body uncoiled from the hawks neck. However, the reptile fought back the entire time, tightening its grip on the bird and lunging at one deputys steel baton.

The video ends with the hawk taking flight the second its freed and the snake flying from the deputys hands into the road.

Good job. Everybody wins, one deputy is heard saying.

Alachua County Sheriff Clovis Watson Jr. lauded the deputies for going above and beyond for an incident that didnt fall within the normal scope of duty.

Gainesville is about 70 miles southwest of Jacksonville.

Rarely seen snake species shows up in middle of Florida road  eating another animal

Rarely seen snake species shows up in middle of Florida road  eating another animal

Dont bite me. Video shows Florida deputy trying to separate dueling hawk and snake
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. The Russian private military company Wagner Group, which is fighting Ukrainian troops in the Donbass city of Bakhmut  called Artyomovsk in Russia - has been promised enough ammunition to continue the battle, RT reported citing the company's head, Yevgeny Prigozhin.

The statement comes after Prigozhin warned that his fighters would be forced to pull out of the city on May 10 unless ammunition shortages are addressed by Russias Defense Ministry.

In a voice message posted on his Telegram channel, Prigozhin said that Wagner received a military instruction  in which we were promised as much ammunition and weapons as we need to continue our activities.

We were told that we can carry out activities in Artyomovsk as we deem necessary, Prigozhin added.

He also said that Army General Sergey Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russias military operation in Ukraine, was tasked with making all decisions related to the military activities of Wagner PMC in coordination with the Defense Ministry.
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. United States President Joe Biden on Sunday called once again for Congress to tighten gun controls in the wake of the Texas mall shooting.

He said the attacker, using an AR-15 style assault weapon, gunned down innocents in "the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation".

"Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar," Biden tweeted, calling on Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, and require universal background checks.

President Biden on Sunday ordered US flags be flown at half-mast at federal buildings, military posts and American embassies until sunset on Thursday as he made his plea for tighter gun controls.

Republicans in Congress are unlikely to back such a call, and gun ownership with few restrictions enjoys widespread support in Texas itself.

Most adults aged 21 or over in Texas are allowed to carry a handgun without a licence, unless they have a previous conviction, according to BBC. In addition, there are few restrictions on possession of rifles and shotguns. Republicans control the Texas state legislature.

In the US so far this year there have been at least 202 mass shootings in which four or more people were killed or wounded, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

A gunman shot and killed eight people, including children, at a shopping mall north of Dallas on Saturday.

Hundreds of people were evacuated from the Allen Premium Outlets mall as eyewitnesses described a man firing indiscriminately at passers-by.

A police officer on an unrelated call killed the gunman after hearing shots.
Suicide is a matter of psychology, and not of economics  no matter how tempting that may be to exaggerate an issue

Politicians see votes in farmer suicides. Few of them seem to understand the reality that has overtaken farming in India. With almost 60 per cent of the population still dependent on it, agricultures share of GDP has declined to just 13 per cent, and is declining fast. Very simply, it means that farming now only ensures greater relative poverty.

To make farming profitable, two things need to happen. One is that less people are involved in it and the other is that farm produce gets higher prices. Only rapid industrialisation will ensure the former, and a drastic reduction in the cross-web of state interference to curb prices for urban people. Neither is happening in India. This is a huge challenge and all politicians, whether it is Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Nitish Kumar or Arvind Kejriwal, will always take the easy way out. They will just keep on visiting the homes of the suicides, and avoid stating the obvious. But are farmer suicides a recent phenomenon or has the incidence grown recently? Suicides have been a part of our life since time immemorial. People in all walks of life kill themselves for various reasons. And some people are more predisposed to killing themselves than others. The incidence of farmer suicides is actually not as high as the protesting decibels would suggest. In fact, the incidence of suicides among farmers is far less than the general trend.

The National Mental Health Association of the United States says that no matter the race or age of the person; how rich or poor they are, it is true that most people who commit suicide have a mental or emotional disorder. There is a suicide baseline, which exists, in good times or bad, and suicide is not a matter of economics. This is well supported by the data released by World Health Organisation: while the suicide rate in India, an agrarian economy, was 13 per 100,000; that of industrialised, rich countries were often higher or comparable  South Korea 28.5, Japan 20.1, Russia 18.2, France 14.7, Germany 13.5, USA 12.6, Australia 12.5, Sweden 12.0, UK 11.8, and happiness index-linked Bhutan was number 20, with 16.2. Men usually are more prone by two or three times to kill themselves than women.

In India, after examining the profiles of suicide victims by profession, one finds that farmers, who form 60 per cent of the population, account for 15.3 per cent of suicides, while those in the secure service industry (including government and public sector undertakings) form 9.8 per cent of cases! Suicide rates indicate that while poorer states like Bihar have a per 100,000 rate of 1.85 and Uttar Pradesh 3.02, some richer states like Gujarat (9.62) and West Bengal (18.45) are more prone. Clearly, there is no correlation between suicide rates and incomes, and if any at all, have nothing whatsoever to do with the farm or non-farm sectors; it is more to do with how people respond and succumb to a social or economic adversity. Its in their inherited genes.

We cannot deny the grim reality of the countryside, but our politicians tend to overplay the emotional quotient of economic adversity. This comes through as a gimmick for winning votes. In no respect can suicides be used as an index for the lagging economic performance. In the same regions of the Telugu states and Vidarbha, where suicides are reported, there exist millions of other farmers who are in the same or possibly worse situations. Most of them cope up with their adversity and suicide is not the chosen option. Clearly, the issue to grapple is not suicides by farmers, but the economic plight of farmers who have been affected by crop failure and drought.

The problem thus should be analysed using a more holistic approach, keeping in mind a larger perspective. The agricultural sector as a whole is facing major structural problems. We are witness to the falling share of agriculture in the countrys GDP, from 35 per cent in 1990 to 13 per cent in 2015, the increasing burden on land (267 people per square km in 1991 to 324 people in 2001), and also the low productivity, low purchasing power, poor infrastructure, a gross inequality of state-conferred benefits and a perceptible withdrawal of the state from the agricultural sector. Considering the fact that agriculture is still the mainstay of the Indian economy, employing around 60 per cent of the total workforce; this on the whole does not bode well for the country.

The main proportion of the governments outlay on agriculture goes towards subsidies, which contribute very little to growth today. They benefit the rich farmers the most, while the marginal ones are living on the fringe. These need to be done away with to arrive at a long-term solution. There is also need to promote watershed management and massively increase the acreage under irrigation  at present only about 35 per cent of total agricultural land is irrigated! This would reduce their susceptibility to drought and avoid crises. Telangana state has shown that increased availability of water to farmers exponentially improves economic growth and prosperity. This is the Telangana state model which the arid states of India must emulate.

There are other infirmities, which keep most farmers at subsistence levels. The fragmentation of holdings is a major cause, with about 83 per cent of farmers considered small or marginal, with less than two hectares each. This implies that over 80 per cent of farmers in India hold about 35 per cent of the total cultivated land. To compound matters, there has hardly been any new creation of irrigation potential by the state for the last 25 years. All the additional irrigated holdings of the past two decades have come from private tube-wells. Two thirds of our farmlands are still rainfed. This clearly makes any commercial-scale farming impossible, and a majority of farmers dependent on the rain gods and governmental lords.

To reiterate, suicide is a matter of psychology, and not of economics  no matter how tempting that may be to exaggerate an issue. Few can deny that there is a crisis looming over the agricultural sector. To be able to act purposefully, we must rely on facts instead of emotions. The true indicators of the economic conditions are objective measures such as the sectoral share in GDP, availability of cheap credit, increase in area under irrigation, etc., and not farmer suicides. It is unethical to use this as an economic index. But tell that to the politicians?

(The writer, a policy analyst studying economic and security issues, held senior positions in government and industry. He also specialises in the Chinese economy.)
The story in Goa of course was the rude body language we apparently displayed to him, the apparent refusal to shake hands and so on

We have just hosted the foreign minister of Pakistan, a young dynast of the sort India is familiar with. His mother, who was Prime Minister, was assassinated by extremists, his grandfather, who was Prime Minister and also President earlier, was assassinated by the judiciary and the Army. His uncles were assassinated, one by the police. This is a person who has first-hand experience of the dangers and problems of the sort of state that Pakistan has formed itself into.

The story in Goa of course was the rude body language we apparently displayed to him, the apparent refusal to shake hands (and do namaste instead), and so on. It was as if we were hosting someone unwelcome, which we were, and someone who had been forced on us with whom we had personal enmity. He, on the other hand, though young, appears to have acquitted himself well, going by some of the messages on the social media, though I did not see the interviews he did. He exposed himself to questioning by our journalists, which our leaders do not do.

Let us turn to the issue, which is how we can improve relations with our neighbour. The first question to ask is: Do we have any agency or do only they have it? This is worth considering because our position is that we can have no normalcy in ties till they stop doing what they do. Meaning that, according to us, they are the ones who are in control of normalcy. I have written before about the data on deaths in Kashmir from terrorism, which peaked two decades ago at over 4,000 and then fell each year under Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to go under 200 in a decade, and remain there more or less in the years since. Our governments view appears to be that all violence in Kashmir is externally induced, and there is no local catalyst. I say appears to be because it is not clear if we are saying this. But if we are, then what we mean is that since there is no local component, we will only act on normalisation if violence becomes zero.

This is worth considering while we go through the options we have. Former diplomat Satinder Lambah recently (posthumously) published a book called In Pursuit of Peace: India-Pakistan Relations under Six Prime Ministers. In it, he lists the four-point normalisation formula of then President Pervez Musharraf. These were demilitarisation through a phased withdrawal of troops, no change in the borders of Kashmir, free movement of Kashmiris across the Line of Control without independence and joint supervision in Jammu and Kashmir involving India, Pakistan, and Kashmir.

This did not go through. After this, under Dr Manmohan Singh, another set of guidelines was produced by India. These repeated all four of Musharrafs points, and added more. Three of these additional points were on trade: encourage meaningful across the LoC, removal of non-tariff barriers (meaning delays, inspections, red tape) for all locally produced goods, take measures to increase it and open more routes.

This did not go through either of course, but it sounds like normalisation of the sort that would not only address our concern of violence against civilians and the armed forces but also be beneficial to our economy. India produces goods that Pakistan (or for that matter Bangladesh) does not, but we cannot sell them these products because of trade barriers and reluctance to normalise.

Half of all manufacturing in India is in the automobile sector, and the cars, motorcycles and tractors and rickshaws we have are cheaper than the ones sold there. It would be in our interest to push for normalisation or at least to segregate normalisation on Kashmir from other issues like trade, so that our economy benefits.

There appears to be no such desire, at least on the part of this government, as there was in the previous one.

And so in Goa, again we repeated our position, as we were expected to do, and this will continue into the future. What Lambah said the government was considering in that period is no longer our thinking.

The other thing to consider is whether there is a second way of looking at the problem, and if the issue to be resolved is primarily in Kashmir, rather than in Pakistan. To go there we have to accept, or at least have to consider the idea, that if we resolve the problem inside then external mischief has limited efficacy. This doesnt seem to be our understanding. We assume that if Pakistan were to stop acting against us or were to somehow vanish from the face of the earth today, then from tomorrow there would be no need to maintain a heavy military and paramilitary presence in Kashmir. This is either touchingly innocent or bafflingly stupid.

However, it is the position of the government, and not only this one.

So long as this line of thinking continues, and it is not difficult to see that it will, there will be no movement on our relations with our neighbour.

We have told ourselves that the key to the solution is with them, and they are refusing to use it, and because they are refusing to use it, we will not talk to them. Having thrown away our agency, our focus is not on substance but communicating how we did not shake hands and how we made angry faces. This is what India foreign policy has become.
by Thomas Menamparampil *

Indias military has restored order in the wake of clashes that left more than 50 people dead, deeply scaring the local population. What began as an inter-ethnic clash hastily developed an inter-religious dimension in the polarized atmosphere that the majoritarian Hindutva regime at the national level has created. Several Kuki churches were destroyed or damaged, said the archbishop emeritus of Guwahati speaking to AsiaNews. In border states, Confidence-building measures should be adopted. No community must be made to feel hoodwinked or bypassed.

Imphal (AsiaNews)  Order has been restored in Manipur following a large-scale intervention by Indias military; however, the wounds caused by the recent clashes between the mainly Hindu Meiteis ethnic majority and the mostly Christian tribal communities are deep, this according to Mgr Thomas Menamparampil, Archbishop Emeritus of Guwahati, a leading Catholic figure in north-eastern India.

In the state capital, Imphal, it is time to assess the damage wrought by the violence, including the many Catholic churches and convents devastated, not to mention the displacement of thousands of people forced to flee their homes.

For its part, the Supreme Court of India heard a petition today calling for the creation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to find out what happened.

Our immediate target is protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people," the top court said, asking both the Union and state governments to give details of relief camps. The displaced must be brought back to their homes. Religious places must also be protected," it demanded.

With 54 killed and 13,000 rescued from conflict situations, Manipur moves on to greater security after several days of intense anxiety. More than 10,000 armed forces had been called to impose order, and the authorities claim that the violence-hit areas are under firm control as of now. Uncertainty still prevails in the Churachandpur and other Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in different parts of Manipur.

What began as an inter-ethnic clash hastily developed an inter-religious dimension in the polarized atmosphere that the majoritarian Hindutva regime at the national level has created. Several Kuki churches were destroyed or damaged, and religious personnel harassed.

The immediate cause for tension was the demand of the Hindu Meitei community for tribal status, which would have enabled them not only to enjoy tribal privileges, but also move into territories that are reserved for the tribals. The Meiteis being the dominant community of Manipur, if they were given tribal privileges in addition, tribal communities would have been seriously disadvantaged, losing out greatly in competition.

Of late, the members of the Legislative Assembly had approved the idea of tribal status for the Hindu Meiteis and the High Court had asked the state government to send a recommendation to the Central Government to get the proposal approved. Put this development in relationship to the Hindutva demand that the tribal status be taken away from Christian tribal communities. Most tribal people in Manipur are Christians. A sense of fear united the entire Christian community belonging to various tribes into a single body.

There was a Tribal Solidarity March which brought them in confrontation with the Meitei majority. The clashes that followed and loss of life and property have been reported. The activists among majority community seems to have the freedom to wield weapons to harass and humiliate minority groups and Christians. Christian institutions work under great anxiety.

With shoot at sight orders, calm has been restored for a while. But long-term strategies will need to be found for restoring confidence among tribal communities. The Kuki-Zo groups particularly feel anxious, since the areas they occupy has been declared forest land of late, though they had been in possession of it for generations.

This is not to say that the Hindu Meitei community does not have reasons to be anxious about their future. Though they constitute 53-60% of the states population, confined to the Imphal Valley, they occupy only 10-12% of the state. Unless they move on from agriculture to other types of occupations, their economy will not be viable.

What is needed most is intercommunity collaboration in border states like Manipur rather than conflict and rivalry. Confidence-building measures should be adopted. No community must be made to feel hoodwinked or bypassed. Existing privileges should not be taken away from weaker communities. At the same time, there should be a common effort towards general collaboration so that the majority community too will continue to prosper as in times past. Dialogue for immediate solutions and creative planning of the economy for shared wellbeing are the only path forward that we can suggest.

* Archbishop Emeritus of Guwahati

(Nirmala Carvalho contributed to this article)
Today's headlines: tense calm after violent clashes in Manipur that left 58 people dead; Record temperatures in Vietnam; Security agreements between China, Pakistan and Afghanistan to boost trade, while Turkmenistan sends liquid gas to Islamabad; 20 Indonesian victims of human trafficking recovered in Myanmar.

SYRIA

After more than a decade, Syria rejoined the Arab League. It had been expelled in 2011 following the bloody repression of protests that started the civil war. The organisation's secretary general, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, said that this is the beginning of a process to resolve the Syrian crisis, which will be 'gradual'. At least 300,000 civilians have been killed during the conflict and 100,000 have disappeared or been imprisoned.

INDIA

While the violence has stopped, the situation in the Indian state of Manipur, epicentre of serious ethnic clashes in recent days, remains tense. The death toll has risen to 58, while tens of thousands are internally displaced. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has announced that it will hear appeals starting today. Violence broke out between indigenous tribes (mostly Christian) and the majority Meitei community, which had asked to be included in the Scheduled Tribes.

CHINA - AFGHANISTAN - PAKISTAN

At a meeting of foreign ministers in Islamabad, the three countries pledged to strengthen security and counter-terrorism cooperation. China, which has so far invested billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, could also invest in Afghanistan's mineral reserves of copper and lithium.

INDONESIA

The Indonesian authorities rescued 20 victims of human trafficking from Myawaddy district in Myanmar, where fighting between the coup army and resistance groups has intensified. Thanks to the work of the embassies, the Indonesian nationals, who were forced to work in online scams, were transferred to Thailand.

VIETNAM

A record temperature of 44.1 degrees was recorded in Vietnam. Farmers explained that the rising temperatures force them to start work in the fields very early in the morning because then the weather becomes unbearable. The city of Danang, in the central regions, asked the Ministries of Industry and Electricity of Vietnam to 'cooperate to effectively deal with the heat, possible drought, and lack of water'.

KAZAKHSTAN

The court in Astana sentenced Gulmira Satybalda, ex-wife of Kayrat Satybalda, nephew of the former President of Kazakhstan Nazarbaev, to seven years' imprisonment for abuse of power and kidnapping, removing all state honours received by her father-in-law, with the obligation to compensate her for the material and psychological damage inflicted on the victims.

TURKMENISTAN - PAKISTAN

Turkmenistan has started to supply Pakistan with liquid gas, passing through the territory of Afghanistan, without specifying the costs of the operation, as reported by Afghan newspapers such as The Kabul Times, whereby the gas passes through the mountains of Kandahar, with great benefits for Kabul as well, as stated by the head of the Mokhmand Chamber of Commerce.
In the diocese of Hebei, Msgr Simone Zhang Jianlin has been detained since 2021 while his 90-year-old ailing mother is now in hospital with no one to care for her. The family is hoping for a gesture of humanity from the authorities.

Xuanhua (AsiaNews) - The vicar of the diocese of Xuanhua, in the Chinese province of Hebei, has been in prison for more than two years while his 90-year-old mother is too ill and no one takes care of her.

Msgr. Simone Zhang Jianlin, general vicar of the Xuanhua diocese - the same diocese whose underground bishop is Msgr. Augustine Cui Tai, who is also repeatedly deprived of his freedom - has been detained since he was taken away by the police in April 2021 and until now has not been granted any personal freedom.

Bishop Zhang was arrested for criticising illegitimate priestly and diaconal ordinations. On 11 May 2021, Bishop Guo Jincai of Chengde diocese, without the consent of the bishops of Xuanhua and Xiwanzi dioceses, violated Church discipline and went to the Catholic Church in Qujiazhuang, Xuanhua diocese, ordaining three priests and a deacon for the 'Zhangjiakou diocese'. This diocese, however, does not exist for the Holy See, but only for the government, and the territory is divided between the dioceses of Xuanhua and Xiwanzi.

Vicar Zhang offended the authorities by disseminating the Holy See's clarifications and the rules of canon law, warning the diocese's priests not to participate in illegal ordination ceremonies.

Prior to the ordination, the government forcibly detained Msgr Zhang and so far he has not been released. Msgr Zhang's 90-year-old mother is weak and ill, and she recently became ill and was hospitalised. Msgr Zhang's mother is usually cared for by her daughter who is also frail and ill.

According to some believers, the family fervently hopes that the authorities will release Mgr Zhang as soon as possible on humanitarian grounds, so that he can take care of his elderly and sick mother.

AsiaNews sources report that the illegal ordination carried out by Bishop Guo Jincai in the Xuanhua diocese has seriously disrupted the administration of the two dioceses of Xuanhua and Xiwanzi, adding to the confusion.
Best Beard Oils

Elevate Your Facial Hair With These Nourishing Beard Oils

The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.

Product photos from retailer site.

Lets face it: Your beard hair is a natural trap for all kinds of dirt and bacteria. Not only that, it differs drastically from the fur found on your head, with beards being much more coarser. So, if youre going to grow one, you owe it to yourself (and anyone around you) to keep it well groomed.

RELATED: Best Beard Products

That's where beard oils come in. Youve probably heard about them, but many guys dont really know why or how theyre used, or where to begin when it comes to choosing one. Will they make your face break out? Why would you slather oil on your face? Read on, and well clear up much more than just your bristles.



Best Beard Oils of 2023

Caswell-Massey Heritage Beard Oil

Sometimes, you need a one-stop-shop grooming product that can hydrate and condition a beard. Caswell-Masseys Heritage Oil does the trick with a soothing mix of citrus, neroli, rosemary, and American Port Orford cedar wood oils combined with an organic argan oil base. If you only have the patience for one beard maintainer, this is it.



$26 at Amazon.com

Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil

Castor oil is often cited as one of the best oils for for beard growth. But it's not only a beard growth oil. In fact, it's an excellent oil option for those flush with facial hair. Castor oil on its own acts as a wonderful beard care product that acts as a beard conditioner, a beard softener, and a remedy for beard dandruff and a patchy beard. It get's better. Castor oil is one of the best carriers oils, which means it makes your favorite oil in your trusty beard oil kit work even better. Be it jojoba oil, argan oil, almond oil, or even the more DIY beard oil such as shea butter, coconut oil, or olive oil, you can make the most of them by adding just a drop or two of pure castor oil.



$19.99 at Amazon.com

CHI Man Beard Oil

Vitamins A and E help introduce antioxidants into your body and thats exactly what this beard oil does, but through your mug instead. Your face will benefit from this gentle vitamin infusion with additional moisturizer and a gentle fragrance to wrap it all together. Youll notice a more supple, softer beard sooner than you think.

$18 at CHI.com

Holly Hall Supply Co. Organic Beard Oil

Its more popular than ever to seek out organic skincare products with simple ingredients (and for good reason, too). This particular oil features just two ingredients: argan oil and jojoba oil. Its unscented and offers all of the healthy hair benefits while supporting a small business and avoiding all the marketing fluff.



$14 at Amazon.com

Method Men Beard Oil

Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin, this vegan and cruelty-free premium beard oil uses avocado, argan, sweat almond, and olive oil to soothe skin irritation and beard itch from daily life. Consider it a lightweight oil that will sooth while moisturizing.



$17.89 for 3 at Amazon.com.com

Pacific Shaving Company Natural Shave Oil

If youve been to a big-box store recently, youve seen Pacific Shaving Co. take on more shelf space in the grooming aisle - and thats because they make great, no-nonsense products. Take their Natural Shave Oil, for example, which not only works in shaving, but also as a beard moisturizer in a pinch. Also, it comes in a portable half-ounce size ideal to throw in a carry-on dopp kit.



If youve been to a big-box store recently, youve seen Pacific Shaving Co. take on more shelf space in the grooming aisle - and thats because they make great, no-nonsense products. Take their Natural Shave Oil, for example, which not only works in shaving, but also as a beard moisturizer in a pinch. Also, it comes in a portable half-ounce size ideal to throw in a carry-on dopp kit.

$22.99 at Amazon.com

Primally Pure Old Fashioned Beard Oil

For those who loves the aroma of a classic cocktail, you can wear that scent 24/7 with Primally Pures bergamot, orange and vetiver-infused beard oil. Its a refreshing, hydrating break for your scraggly beard in a light oil that wont weigh it down.



$20 at PrimallyPure.com

OrganiGrowHairCo Beard Beverage

A dry beard leads to dry skin, which leads to all sorts of discomfort and itchiness while youre trying to sport full & healthy facial hair. The blend from OrganiGrowHairCo is specifically formulated to help combat dry, flaky beards and may even help minor skin irritation that develops through beard growth.



$19.99 at OrganiGrowHairCo.com

Bevel Beard Oil

Is your beard looking a little dull and  unrefined? Adding a couple daily drops of Bevels beard oil will help restore that sought after luster and shine. Its all thanks to a mix of macadamia oil, grapeseed oil and evening primrose in a small container that packs a powerful, restoring punch.



$14.95 at Amazon.com

Port Products Conditioning Beard Absolute

Port Products' Conditioning Beard Absolute is a faster-absorbing beard oil, which equals more moisturizing and less shine. Some fans say that any excess oil on their hands is a great, quick hair conditioner for a light shine and natural look. Ultimately, it helps with styling and dry skin all wrapped into a very light woodsy smell that isn't overpowering.



$22 at Amazon.com

Baxter of California Beard Oil

Beard oils dont come cheap, and if youre spending top dollar on one, then you deserve something that has legs. Baxters lightweight formula calms your beard, feeding it botanical extracts for nourishment and shine. No grease or residue. Your skin receives a boost in moisture thanks to the inclusion of natural ingredients such as squalene and vitamin E. The scents of sandalwood, jasmine, and cedar wood are pleasant on the nose as well.



$28 at Amazon.com

Cremo Mint Blend Revitalizing Beard Oil

Growing one of these suckers takes time and patience. If youre one of those guys stuck in the stubble zone at a longer-than-expected time frame, then Cremo has a solution to at least make sporting a shorter beard more tolerable. Its Tea Tree Mint variation numbs ingrown hairs and soothes irritations to rejuvenate both the skin surface and hair follicles. The light scent welcomes hints of spruce, cedar and rosemary wood into the air for the wearer and commoners to enjoy.



$9.82 at Amazon.com

Every Man Jack Beard Oil

High price doesnt always equate to high performance. Every Man Jack is a prime example, especially when it comes to beard care. Its cedar wood-scented beard oil features an organic composition that outperforms most other upscale offerings. Everything in it comes naturally derived, with little application necessary to keep your beard feeling and smelling refreshed. No dropper or lingering residue to deal with.



$18.35 at Amazon.com

Isola Tobacco + Musk Body Oil

If youre looking for something more animal-friendly, you could do worse than Isolas just-masculine-enough tobacco and musk scented oil. Although its actually a body oil, it contains many of the same ingredients as beard oil and does an equally excellent job of nourishing your beard.



$34 at IsolaBody.com

RELATED: Sneaky Habits That Are Ruining Your Beard

Beardbrand Spiced Citrus Beard Oil

This oil, from beard lifestyle-oriented Beardbrand, seeks to capture the essence of the urban lumberjack with an intoxicating blend of clove, vanilla and grapefruit. Lightweight essential oils leave a pleasant texture on the beard that doesnt weight it down. The aroma is a masculine one, not too light or overpowering, but just right when applied generously throughout the face. Granted the scents are an acquired one for sure, Beardbrand does offer three other options to spoil the birds nest: Lumber Yard, Tea Tree, and the fragrance-free Blank Slate.



$28 at Beardbrand.com

Scotch Porter Smoothing Beard Serum

Those familiar with Scotch Porter's beard care collection know the brands M.O. for conquering unruly fuzz. This beard serum employs botanically-infused natural ingredients to soften hair cuticles and act as a conditioner to seal in moisture to maintain a hydrating facial plane. No dropper makes for ease of application and it even boasts UV protection to protect your face from sun damage, as well as heat and other extreme conditions.



$19.99 at Amazon.com

King C. Gillette

While Gillette has been making shaving products, the brand wanted to get back to its roots with the launch of King C. Gillette. So, if you are new to the beard game, an old pro, or you just don't know which beard oil to choose from, starting off with this will set you up for success. Loaded with grape seed oil, macadamia seed oil, evening primrose oil, avocado oil, jojoba seed oil, sweet almond oil, and peppermint oil, your face and beard will be soft and fresh, without feeling greasy of weighed down.



$12.99 at Walgreens.com

Jack Black Beard Oil

Jack Blacks beard oil contains a list of certified organic natural ingredients designed to bring top-quality beard and skin care directly to your face, including Kalahari melon oil, vitamin E, plum oil, marula oil, brown algae, fatty acids, and carrot extract. The oil is vegan and cruelty-free, often the sign of an oil suitable for sensitive skin. One reviewer, Alex, appreciated the subtlety of this beard oil: I like the soft nature of the scent and its light notes. Its not too overpowering and masculine like many other beard oils or hairstyle products. What does that really mean? It doesn't overstay its welcome, he explains.



$26 at Nordstrom.com



Brickell Beard Oil

The organic oil features natural ingredients like algae extract and vitamin E to condition the beard, argan oil for its softening, shiny effect, and aloe vera to soothe and treat the skin beneath. It's actually scented with real peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils. It can be a bit oily for those with acne-prone skin and like a product that doesn't feel like it adds to the sebum oil on their face already. This is the first beard oil from mens grooming brand Brickell, which touts its quickly expanding line as being an effective, non-toxic, and scientifically backed.



$25 at Amazon.com

Best Damn Beard Oil By Duke Cannon

The best feature of Duke Cannons Best Damn Beard Oil is the refreshing, unexpectedly citrusy scent. This could be due to the inclusion of orange essential oil, not to mention ingredients such as apricot kernel oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, cedar wood amber fragrance, rosemary extract, and clove essential oil. As a less greasy option, the organic, natural ingredients, even work for men with sensitive skin.

Duke Cannon is not messing around: a military unit guides their product Research and Development, they give back to veterans, and they market their products to no-nonsense, hardworking men looking for practical, effective, tactical grooming products. The company makes massive bars of soap, and the beard oil comes in a nice big three ounce bottle (3x the size of the competition, the website notes).



$30 at DukeCannon.com

Maapilim Beard Oil The Israeli-based company has gained a ton of notoriety for its all-natural grooming products designed from safe synthetics and natural ingredients found in the Great Sea. Maapilims beard slick features key nutrients to stabilize hair growth, moisture, and maintain a natural shine. Do away with itchiness and stray hairs by slathering some of this on your unshaven grill. Pair it with Maapilim Mustache Wax to achieve a uniform look.

$15 at Maapilim.com V76 Beard Oil A worthy addition to the brand's immaculate collection of hair care products, the V76 Beard Oil is one of the gentler beard applicators engineered to nourish strands and the skin beneath it. Key ingredients, such as saw palmetto and safflower oil, fortifies hair health by enhancing growth and maintaining hydration for a smoother kissing surface. Though much of its appeal comes from the delicate and alluring fragrance it emits, which is derived from blue cedar  a magnetic woody scent with leather accents featured in most of its grooming products. Consider the healthy sheen it leaves behind a bonus.

$17.99 at Walmart.com Reuzel Beard Foam Lets say you want all of the benefits of a beard oil, but in a different application. Thats where Reuzels Beard Foam comes in. They repurposed their T4 Tonic blend into a mousse-like consistency thatll help rein in rogue hairs while adding a nice touch of softness. If youve been out on the trail (or just too lazy to shower) for a couple of days, this foam will help deodorize your hair, too.

$13.50 at Amazon.com

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Quite popular at the time, the GTO isn't particularly rare nowadays (unless we're talking about Royal Bobcat models), but you'd have to get very lucky to see one at the drag strip. Well, if you've been longing to see the iconic Poncho charge down the quarter-mile, a 1964 version was spotted going against a 1970 Oldsmobile 442 at a Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race (PSMCDR) event.And it's no regular GTO, either. While the base version was no slouch at 325 horsepower, Pontiac also offered a "Tri-Power" option that added three two-barrel Rochester carburetors atop the 389-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) V8 engine. The upgrade increased output to 348 horsepower and 428 pound-feet (580 Nm) of torque. When it comes to 1964 GTOs, it doesn't get better than this. Unless, again, it's a dealer-prepped Royal Bobcat.But what's in the other lane? Well, the second classic muscle car taking part in this race is just as hot because it's a 1970 Oldsmobile 442. Much like the GTO, it also came with a powerful V8 as standard, but this Olds is one of those rare and beefed-up W-30 models. Thanks to a few under-the-hood upgrades, it packs 370 horsepower and a whopping 500 pound-feet (678 Nm) of torque.It sure sounds like the Olds has a bit of an advantage output-wise, but it's also notably heavier than the GTO. However, because the PSMCDR series allows quite a few modifications to the drivetrain, these muscle cars may pack more punch than their standard siblings, so the outcome is difficult to predict.The first race shows the 442 taking the advantage at the Christmas tree and crossing the finish line two-tenths quicker than the Poncho. Specifically, the Olds runs the quarter-mile in 13.7 seconds, while the GTO needs 13.9 clicks to reach the line. Both cars inch past the 100-mph (161-kph) mark in the process.The second duel is pretty similar to the first one. While the Pontiac driver covers the distance in the same 13.9 seconds, the Olds is a tad slower at 13.8 hits. But that's enough to win the second round and advance thanks to the competition's best-of-three format. But the drivers agreed to run the third race, which also ended with the 442's victory (albeit both cars were slower). Watch the drama unfold in the video below, which was shot at the 2022 Annual Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

AWD

Just under 1,800 units produced for the 2023 model year are called back in the United States of America for an issue attributed to Hyundai WIA, a core company within the Hyundai Motor Group. The three-letter acronym stands for World Industrial Ace, and said company also manufactures aerospace and military equipment.Documents filed with thereveal that Hyundai WIA didnt make certain Genesis GV60 rear driveshafts correctly. The jig tooling wasn't aligned properly during manufacturing, which resulted in abnormal stress points in said rear driveshafts. In other words, dual-motor vehicles may experience rear driveshaft failure.Hyundai started investigating this concern two months ago, following multiple reports of driveshaft failures involving vehicles with the very same rear driveshafts as the GV60. No fewer than 333 vehicles were inspected, of which 29 exhibited rear driveshaft damage. Prior to the South Korean automaker's decision to issue a safety recall in the US of A, Hyundai was informed of an additional incident report from the UK market.Hyundai is aware of five rear driveshaft failures involving the left rear driveshaft (part number 49800-CU000) and the right rear driveshaft (part number 49801-CU000). Dealers will be instructed to replace both driveshafts at no cost whatsoever to GV60 owners. The jig alignment was corrected in December 2022, and for extra peace of mind, Hyundai has also implemented magnetic particle testing.Owners can expect recall notifications by first-class mail no later than June 25. In the meantime, checking the vehicle identification number online with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is the easiest way to tell whether your GV60 is affected or not. Subject vehicles were produced for the 2023 model year between June 15, 2022, and February 10, 2023.Slotted below the Genesis Electrified GV70 crossover and Electrified G80 sedan, the GV60 is available to purchase in 23 states at press time. Available to lease from $689 per month, the compact-sized crossover is available in two distinct flavors. The Advancedopens the list at $59,290, excluding taxes and the federal tax credit, and the Performance AWD is $68,290.Both variants feature lots of standard kit, and both of them leave much to be desired in terms of driving range. The 314-horsepower Advanced AWD is good for up to 248 miles (nearly 400 kilometers) between charging stops, whereas the 429-horsepower Performance AWD is EPA rated at 235 miles (nearly 380 kilometers).According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the Performance requires about 5 percent more energy. Including charging losses, energy consumption is listed at 220 and 233 Wh/km on the combined test cycle.
Most of the hardware of this type used on the front lines comes in the form of aerial assets. Sure, ground and even underwater drones are deployed in military operations, but these are far less common and visible as their aerial counterparts.As more and more nations are developing such systems though, it's likely future wars will make non-aerial military systems far more common.One of the latest entries in the world of underwater drones is the BlueWhale. Developed by defense contractor IAI , the thing is described as Israel's first unmanned submarine.The sub has been in the works for a while, even if it's only now we're hearing about it. The full specs in terms of capabilities have not been released, but we have enough info on it to paint a pretty picture of that for our selves.With a diameter of a little over one meter and a length of almost 11 meters (3 and 36 feet, respectively), the BlueWhale is small enough to fit inside a 40-foot shipping container and light enough to be transportable by means of land, air or sea methods.It is powered by an electric system that gives it an autonomy of up to four weeks. The thing moves through the water safely, without hitting anything, thanks to data fed by a series of sensors placed around it. It does so at speeds that can be as high as eight mph (13 kph) while submerged.The thing was not designed as an attack ship, but as a tool to gather intel about the enemy. For that to work it is packed full with detection hardware.A mast "several meters high" is where the electro-optical systems of the sub are located. These are used to detect sea and coastal targets, be it enemy submarines or something else.Towed behind the BlueWhale come dedicated sonars for the detection of submarines and mines. The towed sonars too are "several tens of meters long," and are backed in their mission by a dedicated synthetic aperture sonar attached to the sides.Whatever the submarine finds on enemy positions and capabilities is sent back to its operators, in real time, by means of a satellite communications antenna installed on the mast.IAI does not say how far along the development of the BlueWhale is, but given how it made public some details about it point to operational readiness just around the corner.Without us knowing, the sub has already underwent "thousands of hours of submerged and autonomous operation" in undisclosed waters.
SUV

Photo: Fisker

WLTP

Photo: Fisker

kWh

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

GVWR

Photo: Fisker

BEV

kW

Photo: Fisker

Fisker was born in Allerd, Denmark, which may help to explain why the first unit of his electricwas delivered to a Danish customer. Another reason for that is that the Ocean is manufactured in Graz by Magna Steyr, a manufacturing contractor that should not provide vehicles with the same flaws the Karma had. In his second attempt to have a car brand, the Danish designer decided to take care solely of the design and the solutions the vehicles will present.The company's next car will be in the hands of Foxconn. The PEAR (Personal Electric Automotive Revolution) will be manufactured at Hon Hai's Lordstown factory, which it bought from Lordstown Motors in a deal that would still cover the production of the Endurance. More recently, the startup announced that the electric pickup truck would need a recall and that production should stop soon. When the ill-fated Lordstown Endurance waves goodbye, Foxconn should dedicate all its resources at its American factory to bringing the PEAR to life.Fisker is particularly happy about the Ocean's range. It stressed that the first car to reach a customer would run up to 701 kilometers (436 miles) because the buyer ordered it with 22-inch optional wheels. Should this Ocean One launch-edition model come with the standard 20-inch wheels and tires, it should deliver 707 km (440 mi) of range, the most any electric SUV sold in Europe can achieve so far. These numbers were obtained under thecycle, which presents better numbers than the EPA cycle. Fisker did not disclose the EPA numbers for the Ocean yet.The company did great work with the Ocean in terms of aerodynamics . Being an SUV gives it a large frontal area, but Fisker kept it relatively low, with a ground clearance of 18 centimeters (7.1 in) with 22-inch tires. The standard 20-inch tires make the SUV a tad lower: 16.5 cm (6.5 in). That surely helped, but the design has more to do with the vehicle's efficiency.Achieving such a high range suggests the Ocean required a massive battery pack. Although it is not exactly small, its 113are 5 kWh short of the Lucid Air's battery pack for 520 miles of range under the EPA cycle. With the WLTP numbers, the Fisker Ocean can run 3.89 miles per kWh (6.26 km/kWh). The Lucid Air presents an energy efficiency of 4.4 mi/kWh.Despite that, the Ocean is still a heavy vehicle. It has a curb weight of 2,433.6 kilograms (5,365.2 pounds), but the) is even more impressive: 2,974.4 kg (6,557.4 lb). The good news for those wondering about towing capacity is that the electric SUV can tow up to 1,820 kg (4,012.4 lb). The Ocean is 4.77 meters (187.8 in) long, 1.98 m (78 in) wide, 1.63 m (64.2 in) tall with 20-inch wheels, and 1.65 m (65 in) tall with the optional 22-inch set. The wheelbase is 2.92 m (115 in), and the luggage compartment can hold 476 liters (16.8 cubic feet) of cargo.Fisker released several more interesting technical specifications after delivering its first Ocean unit, including how long thetakes to reach a full charge. When plugged into a mode-3 charger (such as a wall box), the Ocean owner will have to wait 12 hours, while a fast charger can reduce the task to 33 minutes.The company probably took into consideration that the electric SUV can have a maximum charging speed of 250, so the fast charger should be able to deliver that. Fast chargers that work at lower charging speeds will naturally demand more time to complete the task. It is never recommended to fast-charge a battery pack to 100% because that may hurt the component in the long run. On top of that, fast charging above 80% of capacity is also slower, boycotting the whole goal of gaining time the process is all about.Now that Fisker showed the people who said it would not deliver a single car were wrong, it has a more significant challenge ahead. Detractors also said they did not expect Fisker Inc. to live for very long. That said, the famous designer now has to prove he can make his company flourish and resist the fierce competition environment the automotive industry is famous for presenting. Considering what the man has accomplished so far, that probably motivates him even more.
If airports and helipads will soon make way for the new type of aircraft known as eVTOLs, it makes sense that testing facilities for conventional aircraft should also open their gates for them. Airbus tested all its models at the DNW (German-Dutch Wind Tunnels) facility in Marknesse, Netherlands. This month, an eVTOL maker will start testing its trailblazing electric air taxi at the same facility.The DNW has been around since the 1970s. The German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the Dutch National Aerospace Laboratory (NLR) set it up. Today it claims to be the largest of its kind in Europe, with more than 30 feet in width (31 feet/9.5 meters).The adequate size was one of the main reasons why Lilium selected DNW for the next developmental phase of its eVTOL jet. A high-end manufacturing solutions provider named TGR-E created a Lilium jet prototype together with IBK-Innovation, an aerospace design company. The result is a 1- to-2.5-scale model, measuring 40% of the future aircraft's size.Lilium describes this model as one of the most advanced ones to be tested in a wind tunnel. Thanks to its size, it is capable of delivering a complex dataset that will cover all flight phases from hover to cruise.Earlier this year, another top air taxi manufacturer launched similar wind tunnel testing for its aircraft. The California-based Joby became the first to test this type of aircraft at the famous NFAC (National Full-Scale Aerodynamic Complex) at NASA's Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley.If DNW claims to be the largest in Europe, NFAC is known as the biggest wind tunnel of its kind in the world. The propeller testing performed at NFAC is considered to be much more advanced than conventional flight testing, even for general aircraft aerodynamics. For a new type of electric aircraft, it's an even greater accomplishment.Lilium is on track to start piloted flight tests in the second half of 2024. The final version of its eVTOL jet will be configured as a six-passenger air taxi, boasting 36 propellers and proprietary Ducted Electric Vectored Thrust (DEVT) technology.Ionblox will supply the batteries, claiming to have greater power density and a higher life cycle than the market. Collins Aerospace will equip the future jet with a custom pilot interface. GKN Aerospace will add a dedicated electrical system.
The Mountain View-based search giant has been very focused on polishing the Android Auto experience since the Coolwalk announcement, so the most recent app updates introduced little to no new features.This isn't necessarily bad news, as everybody knows that Android Auto needs additional refinements. That's likely the purpose of version 9.5, which has just started rolling out to the production channel.Android Auto 9.5 first showed up in the beta stage only a few days, so Google moved pretty fast to promote it to the stable channel. But as per the company's typical approach, the new version comes without a changelog. As such, nobody knows precisely what's new in this latest update.More information should emerge in the coming days and more people receive the update.Chances are Android Auto 9.5 polishes the experience with Coolwalk even further. The new Android Auto design introduces several new bugs, one of which caused the lower part of the screen to freeze shortly after launch . The glitch has already become rather widespread, but so far, Google is yet to announce any timing information for a potential patch.Coolwalk goes live in stages, but most users have already received the new interface.The main Coolwalk highlight is the dashboard screen. Similar to the CarPlay Dashboard , the Coolwalk screen allows users to run multiple apps side by side. Thanks to this feature, you no longer need to keep just one app in focus, as the card-based interface allows the running of navigation apps and audio players on the same screen. Google Maps and Waze already support the Coolwalk interface, so they can run in the dedicated navigation screen along the likes of Spotify and YouTube Music.Google also has more things to address in Android Auto Coolwalk. The company removed the weather information from the status bar when the new design was released. In fact, the status bar itself was removed, and all data was moved to the taskbar, minus the weather conditions.Google added a separate weather card on portrait screens, but devices that use a landscape aspect ratio currently lack this feature. The company previously promised to find a way to bring the weather data back to all devices, but no additional information has been offered since then. Android Auto 9.5 doesn't seem to bring this weather card to landscape media units.Given the rollout takes place in stages through the Google Play Store, you can download Android Auto 9.5 right now with the dedicated APK installer. The update takes place automatically once you launch the APK file on your Android device.
It's not every day we see a Harley model stay in production for so long, but the Heritage easily does this. And it can only be a testament to how important the bike has become for the average Harley motorcycle rider and lover.Being so long-lived and appreciated has however not shielded the Heritage from the passion some people have of modifying the stock Milwaukee machines and turning them into something else entirely. So plenty of them are out there wearing the signature of more or less talented garages. And it's exactly such a modified Heritage that we bring before you this Monday.This custom was born as a stock Heritage back in 2012. It was modified to its current form by Polish garage Nine Hills , and slapped with a new post-conversion name, chosen in honor of a Molson Coors-made type of beer: High Life.The bike is described by Nine Hills as "a project unlike any other." Although it largely still displays the general design lines of the Heritage it is based on, the bike now comes with no bags at the rear, no large fender up front, and no chrome on it.The bike's original wheels, multi-wire spoked and heavy-looking, have been replaced with much simpler ones, in a five-spoke design. Their exact dimensions are not disclosed, but the effect they have in altering the look of the Heritage is dramatic.Up on the bike, the fuel tank comes in a new design, with no Harley-Davidson markings but wearing the High Life name. The seat, supplied by Roland Sands Design, comes in black and brown and it is the element that inspired the overall paint job for the rest of the bike.At the time of writing Harley is offering the Heritage with a 114 engine in its frame, but back when this particular one was made the 103 was all the rage. The High Life still has that engine to power it, enhanced by means of Roland Sands Design accessories and with a Vance & Hines bass exhaust system fitted to one side.The High Life is an older build of the Polish crew, and its current whereabouts are not known. And so is the price of the finished product. Just to get your bearings though, remember that presently Harley is selling a brand new but stock Heritage for $21,999. And the custom one we here is most definitely more expensive than that.
In the view of some, Russia's most potent contribution to space exploration is rockets. Several families have been made over the years, but few of them are as successful as the Soyuz . Born in the mid-1960s, the family continues to be the backbone of Russian space launches, and for a while, before the arrival of the SpaceX Crew Dragon, it also served as transport for American astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).The aging Soyuz family was joined closer to our time by another family of launch vehicles, the Angara. These ones are supposed to carry payloads of up to 54,000 pounds (24,500 kg) to low Earth orbit, and be, of course, much more advanced than the Soyuz.The first Angara rocket took off in 2014, and despite almost a decade going by since, the family of rockets is yet to become a common presence on the space exploration scene. And so is a new Russian spaceport called the Vostochny Cosmodrome. Located in the Russian Far East, it was set up in 2011, but not even to this day the place is not fully operational.Among its many facilities, Vostochny has launch pads for the Soyuz rockets, which are already flying from there, but it is also supposed to have a dedicated launch pad for the Angara rockets.These facilities are not ready yet, although experts expect the first Angara launch from Vostochny to take place as soon as this year. With all that's going on over in Europe with Russia and Ukraine, it remains to be seen if that will be the case.Until we learn whether 2023 will bring with it this premiere of space exploration, animation specialist Hazegrayart decided to give us a short preview of that, in digital form.In a home-brewed YouTube Shorts video we get to see the impressive Angara waiting on an even more impressive launch pad. The aerial point of view of the animation gives us a great look at the rocket and at how the flames and gasses are evacuated from the pad during launch.Now, don't expect anything spectacular such as an explosion to happen, but the Hazegrayart video does bring a breath of fresh air in a world overcrowded with launches of hardware made in America.And, given Russia's growing isolation on the world scene because of its actions in Ukraine, this short animated video might be for some the only way to see the Angara in action from the Vostochny Cosmodrome.
FSD

Rumor: Starting June 1, Tesla's Shanghai factory will not allow workers to bring their cell phones into the workshop, and Model 3 Highland will begin trial production.  Yan Chang (@cyfoxcat) May 8, 2023

Model 3 Highland



Based on concept by @CYBRTRK420, with elements from recent spottings and leaks pic.twitter.com/5leFdZSJfZ  Alwin (@Alwinart) May 2, 2023

It's not a secret anymore that Tesla is working on an updated Model 3. Known internally as "Project Highland," the refreshed Model 3 is expected to start volume production later this year. Since the first rumors surfaced last year, we've seen several prototypes undergoing testing in the US. Based on these sightings, we know the update will see only minor design changes, something we've also seen with the refreshed Model S and Model X.In pure Tesla fashion, the upcoming Model 3 is not expected to introduce new notable features. Instead, it will be about cost optimization and simplification. The first leaked picture of a Project Highland prototype shows that the fog lights disappeared, which aligns with the previous trend of removing features. Despite earlier rumors, no new camera was visible at the front, so don't set your expectations too high. The picture shows a more streamlined front design but no radical change, similar to a facelifted model in the legacy-carmaker world.Production of the refreshed Model 3 was rumored to start in the third quarter of the year, and we don't see any reason why this won't be the case. New information from China indicates that Project Highland is on track, with test production planned for next month. Based on information revealed by @cyfoxcat, Tesla will not allow workers to bring their cell phones into the factory to prevent photo leaks. Tesla has a strict policy for employees that disclose confidential information, but that didn't prevent previous leaks. Earlier information shows that the refreshed Model 3 might come with a structural battery pack and single-piece megacastings, like the Model Y produced at Giga Texas and Giga Berlin. If so, Model 3 will become the first made-in-China model to feature the new structure design. Currently, the Model Y produced in China doesn't feature megacastings and a structural battery pack, being produced the traditional way. The refreshed Model 3 is also expected to feature the Hardware 4 computer and sensor suite, including the HD radar tri-band GPS sensor. No ultrasonic sensors should be expected, as Tesla hasn't changed its position regarding Tesla Vision. Since the leaked picture we analyzed earlier doesn't show new cameras at the front, it remains to be seen if parking distance measurements would be any better than with current Tesla models. So far, Tesla Vision proved vastly inferior in this regard compared to the ultrasonic sensors.If we've learned anything from the refreshed Model S and Model X, the first production vehicles will have many features missing because the software is not mature enough. Hardware-4 Model S and Model X still don't have access to theBeta releases months after production start. The Model 3 will likely share a similar fate. Hopefully, Tesla will improve the software and brings back the missing features.
Photo: Tesla

Photo: via Weibo/CarNewsChina/edited by autoevolution

BEV

Photo: Hulu/Tesla/edited by autoevolution

Photo: via Weibo

Photo: Han Chao/Weibo

The company sold 75,842 units made at Giga Shanghai, including both the internal market and export units, which was apparently a good result when compared to April 2022, but it was 14.7% worse than the sales in March  when prices were higher. For a company that insists that it has no demand problems, that is hard to explain. For the record, the sales in April 2022 were meager: only 1,512 units.The international health crisis was hitting hard in China, and Giga Shanghai was closed due to COVID-19. Elon Musk did not defy the Chinese government shutdown orders, which probably prevented him from tweeting that if anyone were to be arrested, that should be him. He only did that at the Fremont factory in May 2020. Tesla's compliance with the Chinese orders led to low sales that were pretty easy to beat.In March, the company sold 88,869 cars made in China, which includes those exported to Europe. In other words, and despite the record the Model Y is breaking more recently, the lower sales numbers probably also have to do with lower European demand. Insurance numbers suggest Tesla sold a bit more than 29,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to customers in China, which leaves almost 47,000 units for export markets.Although it is common for Tesla to send more BEVs abroad at the beginning of each quarter, the company's inventory is building up. That said, it could have sold many more vehicles in the Chinese market than it did. According to CNEVPost, the reason for that could have been the company's pricing policy.Chinese customers have taken the price reductions in a pretty bad way. Some even invaded and vandalized Tesla Service Centers after paying prices that were reduced just days after their purchases. The current theory is that possible new buyers decided to wait for the prices to drop even more before buying a new Tesla.That theory is confirmed by several moves from themaker. The first happened on April 14, when Grace Tao shared several charts on her Weibo account. Tesla's vice president of external affairs wanted to show how the company's Chinese products cost less in China than anywhere else they were sold. In other words, she wanted to show there was no way they could get any cheaper. It did not work.That was when Tesla decided to raise prices for the Model 3 and Model Y. On May 2, the company started asking RMB2,000 ($289 at the current exchange) more from customers. The low increase was interpreted more as a message that prices would not be reduced any more than as a real need to raise the prices the BEV maker had just made smaller. On May 5, Tesla also increased the values for the Model S and the Model X.It is not clear if these measures will help the company reverse the sales drop it has experienced recently. That probably has more to do with how old the company's lineup looks, especially for Chinese customers. With a wide variety of new BEVs to choose from, people will only pick a Tesla if they are worried about where to charge. Tesla's Supercharging network is an asset, but it will be less crucial when the BEV maker opens some of these stations to other vehicles in an attempt to receive government incentives. Making its chargers more profitable can also be a valid reason.On top of that, Tesla has a reputation problem in China that it is not trying to fix in the best way. Sudden unintended acceleration episodes keep popping up there, and all the company has done so far is blame the drivers or even sue them when they accuse Tesla of selling them defective vehicles.The American BEV maker also recently lost for the third time a lawsuit for fraud. The company sold Han Chao a certified pre-owned Model S in May 2019. While Tesla said it had "no major accidents" and "no structural damage," Chao discovered it had to have its C-pillar replaced after a crash. Tesla will have to pay him RMB1,518,800 ($219,781), but the main issue was being convicted for something so serious, especially against a customer.Paying less for any product is always good news when that does not affect other customers, only the competition in any given industry. In Tesla's case, the price reduction strategy was flawed for loyal customers (who felt cheated), for new customers (who wished to pay even less), for the company (which prevented its own sales with its unpredictable tactics and jeopardized the residual values of its cars), and for its investors. There are more than one tried-and-true ways to do that: creating new derivatives, a new model, promotions, you name it. Tesla supporters should only hope for one thing: that the company learned why legacy carmakers follow these paths.
A long-time Plymouth loyalist, Petty asked for the sleek and bullet-looking Dodge Charger Daytona to race during the 1969 season. However, Chrysler bureaucrats wanted to cash in on the Petty-Plymouth association and denied his request.But the racing driver called Mopar's bluff and switched to Ford. Chrysler's white collars realized they shot themselves in the leg and offered Petty retribution. Since the winged Dodge was too delicate of a subject, the corporation made a compromise: make a Charger Daytona lookalike under Plymouth's badge.It worked: Petty returned under the Mopar banner; the rest is history. The car that sealed the deal was the Road Runner Superbird. Chrysler even bought the rights to use the famous cartoon character from Disney.The model was - just like its Dodge Daytona predecessor  built for one year only, in 1970. On top of that, a limited production run was approved to meet NASCAR homologation requirements. The motorsport governing body mandated that 500 units be built for a car to be race worthy.Plymouth assembled nearly 2,000 units to align with a newly introduced NASCAR requirement that imposed a 2:1 dealerships-to-cars ratio. Consequently, 1,935 rear-winged Road Runners were put together. This is the most often circulated figure, although some sources indicate different production values.Three engine choices were available, both iconic Mopar big-blocks: the 440 CID (7.2-liter Super Commando) and the 426 HEMI. The most popular choice was the bigger displacement, again segmented into the entry-level four-barrel or the high-performance six-pack.For some strange reason, Plymouth deemed it reasonable to serve " race performance " and "automatic transmission" on the same Superbird platter. Most of these Road Runners came with the lazy-driver TorqueFlite three-speed self-shifting gearbox.Four hundred-eight of the six-pack Superbirds came with the three-on-the-tree, and one has some history. Crouch Motors from Richmond, Kentucky, received the car, and the dealership president decided to keep it close to its chest.So close that it trusted his 16-year-old son with the track-thrashing automobile. Unlike most gearheads  especially teenagers  the youngster controlled his right foot and took great care of his Plymouth. He drove it with a composed behavior and pampered it in all imaginable ways.Years went by, and the car was retired into storage. Little is known from the period, except that the vehicle never suffered from elements or improper ownership. It retained all its original features and did so to this day.In the late 80s, the original owner  now an even more responsible gearhead  recommissioned the Superbird; this time, the duo went to car shows, gatherings, and beauty contests. The stance and demeanor of the Road Runner must have made an impression, as it received awards for its condition, status, and other merits.A second retirement ensued until 2007. At the Palm Beach auction of that year, the car changed hands for $324,500. At that time, the odometer registered 21,911 miles (35,255 kilometers). Fast-forward another sixteen years, and the Tor Red Superbird is again the object of a public offering.The 124 miles (200 kilometers) added to the clock during this prolonged period indicate that the car's considerate owner is fully aware of what this machine represents. It's a time capsule in its own right, retaining the factory-installed engine, transmission, rear end, fuel tank, carburetor triad, intake manifolds  the lot.The NASCAR Production Codes on the Broadcast sheet  see it in the gallery  testify to its authenticity (along with other documents that accompany the sale). The expected price ranges in the $380,000 zone.While almost identical to the previous model-year Dodge Charger Daytona, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird has a more pronounced back-swept "towel-rack" spoiler. Why Mopar engineers changed the wind tunnel-determined angle of the rear wing is still a puzzle. But the aerodynamic element serves piston addicts as a solid visual cue to the car's correct identity (when seen from a distance).This particular bird rocks its matching numbers 390-hp / 490-lb-ft (395 PS/664 Nm) 440-cube three-twin-barrel V8 engine. The heavy-duty A727 automatic transmission and the A36 Performance Axle Package with the 8.75-inch 3.55:1 differential are still in place. The package also includes power steering, power brakes, and a better cooling system. The sale is part of the 3,000-car Indy 2023 auction held between May 12-20 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.
SUV

But truth be told, Hyundai can still hook you up to a few of its tiny vehicles, such as the classic i10 city car or the novel Bayon and Verna crossover SUVs. Actually, it all depends on where you live because only in Europe can you snatch the i10 , i20, or i30 hatchbacks, whereas, in the United States, the passenger car lifestyle kicks off from Elantra, Elantra Hybrid, or Elantra N levels.The world of crossovers, SUVs, and trucks is more permissive, though, as one can seize a Bayon below the worldwide Kona in Europe or a Venue ahead of thinking about a Kona, Kona Electric, Kona N, or even a Santa Cruz. However, none offers the quirky blend of boxy 'pixel design' crossed with the prominent split-headlight fascia of a family-oriented Palisade like the all-new, first-ever Hyundai Exter does. And there is a big problem if you like what the tiny city crossoveroffers  because it is only available in India , at least momentarily.There are slim chances of ever seeing the little Exter in Europe or across North America, so let us just go ahead and spare us some time by directly calling it a forbidden fruit. Its order book is open in India to coincide with the first official details, which invite everyone to "think outside." Both outside the boxy design and the great outdoors, as per the hints offered with the first details and official pictures. After all, according to the automaker, the new Exter "symbolizes outdoor, travel, and leisure" and comes complete with a trio of powertrain options  all to "empower customers with versatile experiences and fuel their urban & outdoor lifestyle while embodying the feeling of freedom and excitement that one experiences outside."More precisely, the new Hyundai Exter can be ordered from a yet unspecified MSRP with a 1.2-liter Kappa gasoline engine that is compatible with E20 and a 1.2-liter Bi-Fuel Kappa with CNG and a five-speed manual transmission. The third option would be to switch the stick shift of the E20-compatible 1.2-liter Kappa mill with Smart Auto AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). There is no word on whether there are plans for a 4x4 variant, but we know customers can choose from at least five grades - EX, S, SX, SX(O), and SX(O) Connect. Last, but not least, there is also a unique launch color dubbed Ranger Khaki to ensure the tiny vehicle stands out in any crowd.
After weeks of speculation about whether hell appear at King Charles III's Coronation , Cruise did just that, albeit via a pre-recorded message. He and the British Royal Family go all the way back to 1997 when he was asked to attend the funeral of Princess Diana, and he's been seen with various members at various events over the years.The latest came on Sunday, during the Coronation Concert held at Windsor Castle, capping off a weekend of celebrations after the ceremony that saw King Charles III crowned King. Before Lionel Richie took to the stage to perform, a pre-recorded bit played on the big screen, meant to highlight King Charles III's achievements while painting him into a kind of James Bond-type of figure.Former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan showed up first, recalling for the audiences how the former Prince of Wales got his wings as a fully-trained RAF pilot at just 22 years of age. Television personality and adventurer Bear Grylls was next, mentioning the fact that Charles was a royal aviator and a trained commando helicopter pilot. Tom Cruise was last, telling Charles, "Pilot to pilot, Your Majesty, you can be my wingman anytime."Fans of Top Gun will recognize the line, and those who've seen the Maverick sequel will undoubtedly recognize the aircraft Cruise was piloting as well.It was his North American P-51K Mustang single-engined fighter plane, which he bought in 2021 and once called Kiss Me Kate in honor of his ex-wife Katie Holmes. It's the aircraft Cruise loves flying the most, and it's been featured in Top Gun: Maverick, both in the film and in extended featurettes that preceded the theatrical release. Built in 1944 or 1946 (Cruise says it's a 44, but online records claim it's a 46), the actor bought it from a museum in Illinois, where it had come to what seemed like its final resting place.Having Tom Cruise, arguably the most badass actor in Hollywood right now, if only for the fact that he does most of his stunts and they're all of the death-defying variety, tell you you could be his wingman "anytime is no small thing. James Corden would know a lot about that, given his love-hate relationship with Cruise and the frightening stunts they used to do together, against Corden's wishes.On a funny note, work is work, Coronation or no Coronation. Since he was already in the air shooting the segment for King Charles, Tom Cruise used the opportunity to record a strangely-similar segment for the 2023 edition of the MTV Movie Awards, which also aired on Sunday (May 7) night. Both messages are available below.
8 May 2023 13:51 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The plane of Flyone Armenian Company was not allowed to land in Dubai, Azernews reports, citing an international media outlet.

The chairman of the company noted that the air traffic controllers of Dubai refused to allow the plane of the airline company to enter the airspace of Dubai. The Dubai officials have not clarified the reason. The plane was obliged to land in Shiraz, Iran.

We should note that Turkiye has also forbidden the same company to use its airspace as well.

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8 May 2023 11:45 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has kicked off an official visit to the Republic of Lithuania, Azernews reports, citing the ministry.

During the visit, Minister Bayramov will hold meetings with state officials of Lithuania, as well as co-chair the 7th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Bilateral Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.

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8 May 2023 13:15 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

Azerbaijan calls on the Armenian side to show goodwill and make more efforts within the framework of negotiations on normalization in all dimensions.

According to Azernews, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov said this, during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius.

I provided my Lithuanian colleague with detailed information about the post-conflict situation in our region, Azerbaijan's efforts to promote a regional peace agenda, including the latest round of negotiations in the United States on a draft peace agreement with Armenia. The agenda of our discussions included construction and restoration work carried out in the territories liberated from occupation, the opening of transport routes and communications, Bayramov noted.

In general, as Bairamov added, despite some dynamics, the progress achieved in all three dimensions of normalization, namely in the preparation of a draft peace treaty, which will determine the basis of bilateral relations, in the issue of delimitation of the state border and the restoration of transport and communication links, has not yet justified expectations.

According to the minister, he also highlighted the issue of the mine threat from Armenia against Azerbaijan, which is an obvious violation of human rights and an obstacle to socio-economic development and the return of expelled Azerbaijanis to their homes.

"After the war, the number of mine victims in Azerbaijan reached 299 people, of which 54 people died," the Foreign Minister concluded.

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8 May 2023 17:00 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

Armenia's policy of usurping historical and cultural monuments continues. As always, this time it starts with the appropriation of the ancient Albanian cultural history. In fact, it is not surprising that a nation without any history and culture, raids the history of others. The issue is not only Armenia's appropriation of historical monuments, but also its unfair treatment towards them.

In a comment for Azernews, Doctor of Philosophy in History Kerem Mammadov said that the churches were built in two shapes - Catholic and Orthodox, and it is totally wrong to attribute them to Armenian, Russian and Byzantine architectures.

"In the Caucasus, there are two types of churches: the Monophysite and Diophysite churches. The Monophysite churches are distinct from others with one throne that was placed on the side pointing to Jerusalem. However, in Diophysite temples, two thrones were placed, and Armenians belong to the Diophysit sect," the historian said.

A question arises here. If the Armenian state belongs to the sect of Diophysites, and the churches of the South Caucasus belong to the sect of Monophysites, how can they accept Albanian churches? By what fact Armenians appropriate churches and mosques?

It is a tradition of Armenia to convey such false claims to the public. Appropriating the Albanian churches by David Babayan, the adviser of the so-called state's head, and moreover, blaming Azerbaijan, which is a pattern of respect and care for all cultures, is a clear example of Armenia's deceitful policy. Babayan accuses Azerbaijan of allegedly destroying Armenian churches. However, the illegal official of a so-called state does not mention the capital of Armenia where there is not a single mosque or historical monument belonging to Azerbaijan, which in fact, have deliberately been razed or distorted by Armenia.

"If we were a nation destroying a church, there would be no church in the center of Baku. On the contrary, it is necessary to ask them that there is no mosque belonging to Azerbaijan in the capital city of Armenia, which is considered a historical city of Azerbaijan (Irevan Khanate, founded by Mirmekhti Khan)?!, Mammadov said.

In 1918-1920, under the Armenian Dashnak government and in the first years of Soviet Armenia, a number of mosques (Sardar, Tepebashi, Sartib Khan, Hadji Novruzali bek, etc.), built on the historical territory of Azerbaijan, were inhabited by Armenian refugees fled from different countries. Later they destroyed all the mosques and reconstructed them for different purposes.

The only mosque left is the 'Goy Masjid' (The Blue Mosque), and today they call it the Iranian Mosque. One can understand that Persian thinking and Armenian thinking are one and the same. Mamedov added.

The historian emphasized that the Azerbaijani people never showed vindictiveness or humiliated another culture.

"Not only Azerbaijan, but in general this action did not belong to the spirit of the Turkish nation. If we turn to history, while Tsarist Russia pursued a policy of violent Christianization, occupying Turkish lands, neither the Safavids, nor the Great Moguls, nor the Ottoman Empire forced people to become Muslims. Azerbaijan solves cases not with cruelty, but with humanism. Also, as an example, it is possible to cite the medical assistance provided by our Azerbaijani soldiers to Armenian soldiers during the 44-day war." he added.

Finally, the historian concluded that Azerbaijan does not intend to destroy the culture of other nations, but is always ready to cut a destroying hand extended to us.

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8 May 2023 23:00 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

In recent days, a political competition between Russia and the United States over the South Caucasus is getting more intensified. Both sides are seriously fighting to take the lead in the normalization of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations in order to maintain their dominance.

In a comment on the issue for Azernews, the pundit Turab Rzayev noted that it doesn't matter who moderates here. The main thing is who creates real conditions for peace and who offers a real platform. The political analyst reminded that even the Azerbaijani side had a proposal that Georgia was active in this matter. If Georgia wants, it can be a moderator, which is a common space for both America and Russia.

The main issue here is how the parties approach peace. That is what is important for Azerbaijan. The USA is still ahead in this race. Because of the documents leaked to the press, it seems that the USA recognizes Azerbaijans sovereignty over Karabagh. Secondly, the USA sees the principle of self-determination of Armenians as absurd. Instead of the idea of a so-called independent artsakh republic or the right of "arsakh people" to self-determination, they see [Karabakh] Armenians as a political minority in Azerbaijan, Turab Rzayev said.

He also does not rule out that the USA press the parties. The USA are pressuring Azerbaijan regarding the rights of Armenians in Karabakh, even reports say that they press Azerbaijan to give some autonomy. On the other hand, they pressure Armenia to recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and to recognize Karabakh Armenians as an ethnic minority in Azerbaijan. He emphasizes that there is a real peace plan on the table under the name of the Washington plan. In addition, the EU also has a plan, as well. In the Brussels effect, the parties were offered about $5bn as financial assistance so that the parties would sign peace and start the process of border delimitation and demarcation.

However, we do not see similar steps from Russia. Russia is not exactly laying out a peace map. On the contrary, we even see that Russia labels Pashinyan as a traitor regarding Washington's plan because he recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan. So I don't think Russia has anything more to offer for peace at this point, the pundit pointed out.

He noted that Russia has measures to do more provocations. Russia can prevent peace by perpetrating these provocations, just as before, at the meeting in Washington when the Armenian FM had to stop the meeting and flew to Moscow, and was obliged to give more positive interviews about Russia. Because open provocations against Pashinyan's personality had already started.

As for the claims of the US mass media about Russian intention to turn Karabakh into South Ossetia and Donbas, the pundit said it could also be possible. Rzayev said that he wrote two articles about the issue when the 9 November statement was signed.

I noted in my articles that we must open all lines of communication with Armenia. Because we have to force Armenia to peace. We don't need constant conflict. It is not necessary to maintain the front line created there permanently. In addition, we must allow the formation of the Russian Karabakh. In other words, it is clear that the Armenian Karabakh project is over. The West, Armenia, and even the regime in Karabakh understand that the dreams of Armenians to create a new Armenian state here or to unite Karabakh with Armenia are finished. This is not a possible option any more. Even Pashinyan does not propose their independence or unification with Armenia. Everyone accepted this. However, the process of Russification may continue. It is clear that the idea of the Armenian Karabagh was abandoned and the idea of the Russian Karabagh was switched to. That is, the Russian language was declared the second state language in Karabakh. The Russian community was created. I would like to inform you that there is a large Russian community in Azerbaijan, and the head of the community was elected as a member of the Azerbaijani parliament. What is the need to create a second such community in the territory of Azerbaijan?

Also, branches of Russian ministries were established in Karabakh, and statues of Russian historical personalities and public figures are being erected in Karabakh. Support rallies for Putin are being held on the issue of Ukraine. To whom is all this a message? Turab Rzayev stressed.

He said that Pashinyan does not need such activities. He opined that Russia is doing these aiming to stay in the region via Karabakh even if it would be withdrawn from Armenia. The Pundit noted that it is not a new idea. Turab Rzayev reminded that even Zhirinovsky said that the Karabagh belongs neither to Armenia nor Azerbaijan, the Karabagh belongs to Russia. In this regard, the president's office in Ukraine has repeatedly informed that Russia is doing what it did in Crimea even now in Karabakh.

I also stated in my articles that the Armenian Karabagh has brought many disasters to Azerbaijan for 30 years. So, we cannot allow Russian Karabakh. However, it seems that Russia is trying its best to freeze the conflict. If the conflict is frozen, it will be like the Transnistria conflicts, Ossetian and Abkhazian conflicts which have remained unresolved for 30 years. Therefore, under no circumstances we should allow the formation of the idea of Russian Karabagh. Even in his interview with the BBC, Vardanyan seems to rely on Russia, although he did not say it openly, the political analyst opined.

He added that the approach of the USA regarding the right of Armenians to self-determination and viewing Armenians as a national minority in Azerbaijan may not satisfy Armenia to some extent. However, the pundit thinks that Pashinyan agrees with these conditions.

The opposition in Armenia is an obstacle to Pashinyan [in this process]. Even in Pashinyan's own party, there are those who quit their jobs, and accuse Pashinyan of treason. These individuals are clearly sabotaging the process. The Hraparak agency leaks information about the peace agreement in all the media, for example. The agency is a publication that works for the opposition and forces close to Russia. The news of this publication caused great upheaval in Armenia and Karabakh. Putin also accuses Pashinyan of recognizing Karabagh as the territory of Azerbaijan. An interesting question arises. Does Russia not recognize the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan? I see this process more like Russia forcing Pashinyan to get support than Pashinyan getting support from Russia due to his displeasure with Washington. On the one hand, Russia is putting pressure on Pashinyan with the help of the opposition, the former Karabakh clan, on the other hand, with the help of the separatists in Karabakh, and on the other hand, with the help of the media in Russia, the political analyst concluded.

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8 May 2023 17:21 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

The Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society organized an event dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. The event was attended by embassy staff, Azerbaijanis living and studying in Egypt, as well as members of their families, founders of the Friendship Society and students studying the Azerbaijani language in society.

According to Azernews, welcoming the participants of the event, Chairman of the Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, researcher-scientist Seymur Nasirov celebrated the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, a brilliant politician of our people and Azerbaijanis living in different countries of the world, who saved Azerbaijan from the danger of division and destruction and led it to the path of development and peace. He drew attention to the fact that, according to the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, 2023 was declared the Year of Heydar Aliyev in our country. Seymur Nasirov noted that the Friendship Society will continue a series of events on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Great Leader.

Then the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Egypt Elkhan Polukhov, who called the visit of the President of Egypt Abdulfattah Al-Sisi to Azerbaijan in January 2023 a clear example of the high level of relations and cooperation between our countries, spoke. He said that friendly relations between the two countries are based on ancient history, and our peoples are bound by great respect and kindred feelings. He stressed that noticeable development in all areas will continue in the near future to an even higher level. He highly appreciated the participation of representatives of the local community, friendly to our country, together with the Azerbaijani community in the events held by our diaspora.

Speaking at the event, Baghdadi Imam, General Director for External Relations of the Ministry of Higher Education of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and Ahmad Abdu Tarabek, a research journalist on the problems of Central Asia and the Caucasus, noted that the great leader had exceptional merits in the development of relations between Egypt and Azerbaijan.

At the end of the event, Azerbaijani-speaking students of the Friendship Society read poems dedicated to the Great Leader.

It should be noted that at the moment about 450 young people from 42 countries are studying free of charge in the courses of the Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, in addition to the Azerbaijani language, in various subjects.

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8 May 2023 18:52 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have visited Shusha.

The President and the First Lady examined the progress of work at the 66th-81st kilometer section of the Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway.

Chairman of the Board of the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads Saleh Mammadov informed the head of state about the progress of work.

The construction of the 81.7 km-long Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway, which begins at the M6 Hajigabul-Horadiz-Aghband-Zangazur corridor highway and links liberated Fuzuli, Khojavand, Khojaly and Shusha districts, continues in line with international highway standards. 85% of the works at the 66th-81st kilometer section of the four-lane motorway have been completed.

Under the project, the major parts of the construction of five viaducts, six tunnels and a bridge have been completed in this part of the highway.

The head of state and the First Lady watched a video highlighting the progress of work.

The construction of the Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway is planned to be completed in 2024.

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8 May 2023 19:13 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the inauguration of the Zarislichay pumping station in the village of Dashalti.

Chairman of the Azerbaijan Water Reserves Agency Zaur Mikayilov informed the head of state of the drinking water supply, sewage and storm drainage systems of the city of Shusha.

The President launched the pumping station.

The water supply, sewage and storm drainage system reconstruction project in the city of Shusha is set to meet the needs of 25,000 people given the prospective development until 2040.

Under the project, the citys average daily water usage makes up 105 liters per a second. The city will be supplied with water from existing Kichik-Kirs, Zarisli sources and Zarisli water reservoir. The 8,000 cubic meters water purification facility will be built. 3 water reservoirs with the total capacity of 6,000 cm have been designed with the construction of one of them already in progress.

The project provides for the construction of the 24 km main water supply lines, 44 km drinking, 42 km wastewater and 41 km storm drainage networks in the city of Shusha. The new infrastructure management will be based on the Smart Water system. The SCADA system will be used in the water resources management.

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8 May 2023 14:36 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

In 2023, Azerbaijan plans to export 12 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe, Azernews reports, citing the International Energy Agency (IAE).

IAE noted that during the past period of 2022 and 2023, gas supply from Azerbaijan through the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) increased by 15 percent compared to the previous year and amounted to 8 billion cubic meters.

It should be noted that Azerbaijan started supplying gas to Europe on December 31, 2020. A total of 22 billion cubic meters of gas has been transported through TAP, the European part of the Southern Gas Corridor, after the start of commercial operation.

Further, Azerbaijan plans to double natural gas exports by 2027, according to the agreement on cooperation with the European Union, while the first steps are being made to start exporting green energy to European countries.

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8 May 2023 23:50 (UTC+04:00)

President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay an official visit to China on May 17-19, Azernews reports with reference to the Press Office of the President of Kazakhstan.

In China's Xi'an, the President of Kazakhstan will hold talks with the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping.

The two countries' leaders will consider further strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding cooperation in trade, economics, investment, transport and logistics, and energy, as well as deepening cultural and humanitarian ties.

Tokayev will also take part in the China-Central Asia Summit and meet with the heads of major Chinese companies.

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8 May 2023 22:07 (UTC+04:00)

By Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan

Chinas timely diplomatic assistance and political help has once again successfully rescued the government of Pakistan from diplomatic isolation schemed by India during the recently held SCO FM Summit in India.

Moreover, by appreciating pure resolve of Pakistan, combating terrorism the Chinese wisdom has truly supported the government against Indian ill designs and false, fake and fictional propaganda. It seems that the Chinese connection has created a balance in the region which is a good omen for achieving the dreams of greater regional connectivity and immense socio-economic integration in the days to come. The mentioning of the resolution of occupied Kashmir according to the resolutions of the UN and bilateral agreements was very effective in this regard.

In this regard, the Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang chairing of the fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan foreign ministers dialogue in Islamabad clearly indicated full support of China in term of completion of the CPEC projects, security arrangements, respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan and last but not least, national stability and development of Pakistan which vividly reflects its true friendship with the country.

Obviously, the Chinese wisdom has once again successfully prevailed in the most recently concluded the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan foreign ministers dialogue held in Islamabad during which Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang chaired the meeting and emphasized to deepen anti-terrorism cooperation and enhance economic collaboration to achieve desired goals of regional stability and development. Subsequently, the three participating sides agreed on it. Thus message of the moot was loud and clear that terrorism had no place, space and scope in the region.

Precisely, there were numerous good outcomes of this trilateral dialogue starting from terming the fifth trilateral dialogue as restart of the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral cooperation mechanism, highlighting the Chinese wisdom and state policy, attaching great importance to the friendship with Afghanistan and Pakistan which would be further strengthened through the implementation of the Global Development Initiative (GDI) the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) with share development opportunities, jointly meet security challenges, and promote regional stability and prosperity in the region and beyond.

One of the highlights of this important event was the Chinese stressing of the strategic importance of anti-terrorism cooperation by assuring strong commitment and cooperation in combating menace of terrorism under regional multilateral frameworks including the coordination and cooperation mechanism among Afghanistans neighboring countries.

It is indeed victory of true essence of trilateral dialogue, initiated by the Chinese government and of course peaceful persuasions of China and Pakistan that all parties also agreed to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in economy, trade, agriculture, poverty reduction and people-to-people exchanges. They all agreed to advance the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, and extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) cooperation to Afghanistan thus promote connectivity, improve cross-border trading, enhance the economic integration of the three countries and achieve sustainable development.

In the bilateral meeting with Bilawal Zardri Bhutto the foreign minister of Pakistan, China again appreciated Pakistans support on issues concerning Chinas core interests, and promised to extend the Chinese firm support Pakistan to safeguard its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as combat terrorism, Qin said.

To overcome the looming threats of security and terrorism Qin pledged to deepen security capacity building and security system cooperation with Pakistan. He expressed his hope that Pakistan can protect the security of Chinese personnel, projects and institutions with the tightest measures.

For his part, Bilawal showed complete solidarity with the Chinese leadership and its strategic vision and basic principles towards its national sovereignty and territorial integrity Bilawal strongly opposed any attempt to contain China and assured to be always standing with China.

The Chinese FM Qin also met with Pakistani Chief of the Army Staff Syed Asim Munir on the sidelines of the fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers Dialogue in Islamabad.

During the meeting Qin praised the solid friendship between China and Pakistan, terming the two countries friendship as all-weather strategic cooperative partners. China is looking forward to achieving higher-level cooperation with Pakistan, jointly meeting challenges and achieving common development, Qin said.

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Editor's Note: The author is Executive Director of the Center for South Asia & International Studies (CSAIS) Islamabad and Regional Expert on China, BRI & CPEC. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of Gwadar Pro.

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Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High 99F. SW winds at less than 5 mph, increasing to 10 to 20 mph..

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A mostly clear sky. Low near 65F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph.
You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @_ishanidesai on Twitter.
Groups for and against the SAVE Act per the NC Health News report.

This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal . The author of this post is Donna King Stephanie Brinson is an advanced practice registered nurse seeing thousands of patients a year, along with five other APRNs, in a Garner practice open seven days week. They are filling a need for more providers in the state's healthcare system. However, like other APRNs, Brinson can't see patients in North Carolina without aTheir physician is not part of the daily operations of the office. According to Brinson, the APRNs spend about 15 minutes a year with the supervising physician and pay $30,000 annually for sign-off on their work. If that doctor retires or moves on, they must close their doors until they find another supervising physician.The SAVE Act, (House Bill 218/Senate Bill 175) filed in the state legislature would change this regulation, allowing nurses like Brinson to practice up to their level of certification, granting themMore than 25 other states have already passed similar legislation.said bill sponsor Sen. Gale Adcock, D-Wake, a nurse practitioner herself who has been working to pass the bill for years.Lawmakers have tried to pass the SAVE Act before without success. With support from Senate Leader Phil Berger, the Senate voted in favor of a similar bill, 44-2, last year, but the House did not take it up. It is a sticking point as lawmakers debate policy on how to increase access to care amid a growing provider shortage and Medicaid expansion, which adds more than 600,000 people to the Medicaid entitlement program.The issue has generated debate but also big campaign spending. Physicians' lobbying groups and the North Carolina Medical Society are the primary opponents of the bill and, according to a review of campaign finance reports conducted by Rose Hoban at North Carolina Health News, the eight PACs affiliated with the medical society donated a total of $627,650 to General Assembly candidates in 2022 in the run-up to November's elections.EXPANDING NC'S POOL OF PROVIDERSThe SAVE Act is intended to remove regulatory red tape and allow APRNs to practice to the full extent of their training and education. The legislation has a wide range of supporters, including AARP, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Concerned Veterans for America, and Carolina Journal's founding organization, the John Locke Foundation. There were calls to include the SAVE Act in Medicaid expansion, recently passed by the legislature and signed into law by Gov. Roy Cooper, but it was not.said Brinson.THE DEBATEProponents say the SAVE Act is a way to increase the shrinking pool of medical providers and taps a wide range of trained healthcare professionals. Opponents of the bill, like the N.C. Medical Society and N.C. Society of Anesthesiologists, say it risks patient safety.the N.C. Medical Society said in a statement.Rep. Timothy Reeder, R-Pitt, is an emergency room physician and one of the most vocal opponents of the SAVE Act in the N.C. General Assembly.said Reeder.Reeder cited a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research that said nurse practitioners in an emergency setting practicing without medical supervision or collaboration had an 11% increase in hospitalizations. The AMA is actively fighting what it callssaid Reeder.Reeder has co-sponsored a separate bill (House Bill 75) that addresses the supervision arrangements for physician assistants. It requires that in a team setting, a practice is majority-owned by physicians that haveThat bill passed the House in February but is sitting in the Senate Rules Committee. H.B. 75 allows for reduced supervision for PAs who practice in a team setting after 4,000 hours of clinical practice experience as a licensed PA and more than 1,000 hours of clinical practice experience within the specific medical specialty of practice.However, a study from the Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University reports that laws regulatingincrease healthcare costs by restricting the supply of providers. A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that states requiring physician oversight of nurse practitioners had a 28% increase in emergency room visits after expanding Medicaid, while states allowing NPs to practice without physician oversight had only a 7% increase.Adcock said.she added.CAMPAIGN SPENDINGBetween the House and the Senate versions, the SAVE Act has 80 co-sponsors, Democrats and Republicans. Sen. Ralph Hise, R-Mitchell, is a regular primary sponsor of the bill, along with Adcock and Sen. Joyce Krawiec, R-Forsyth. Being an advocate for the SAVE Act puts a target on some members when it comes to elections.In 2022, Hise had nearly $80,000 spent against him in a primary election against Deanna Ballard as independent expenditures (IEs) by NC Citizens for Patient Safety, a political action committee or PAC closely aligned with the North Carolina Medical Society. Both Republicans, Hise and Ballard werein the last legislative maps. Ballard also received $2,000 in direct contributions from the N.C. Medical Society for the primary. The N.C. Nurses Association made direct contributions to both Hise and Ballard, giving $2,000 to Ballard and $6,600 to Hise in that primary election.The N.C. Medical Society has spent heavily in favor of Reeder as well, shelling out $276,330.80 of independent expenditures in his race and $23,200 in direct funding to his campaign from the group's PACs in 2022. Reeder received more than $130,000 from NC Citizens for Patient Safety, a donation that helped him beat Rep. Brian Farkas, a co-sponsor of the 2021 SAVE Act.said Jim Stirling of the John Locke Foundation.Despite being outspent by SAVE Act opponents, supporters feel that this session the bill has momentum. Adcock challenged the House leadership to bring it up for a vote.said Adcock.
This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal . The author of this post is CJ Staff The American Civil Liberties Union is going to federal court to try to block North Carolina's new anti-riot law. The measure is scheduled to take effect Dec. 1, after Gov. Roy Cooper decided not to use his veto stamp against the law.The suit filed Monday argues thatof the new law areACLU of North Carolina seeks an injunction blocking challenged portions of the new law.ACLU lawyers wrote.ACLU's complaint cites a portion of the law creating criminal liability for a person whoaccording to the complaint.ACLU lawyers argued.The suit names N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein and the district attorneys of Durham, Guilford, and Wake counties as defendants. Each is a Democrat. The suit does not name Republican legislators who led the votes to approve the anti-riot law.The law, also known as House Bill 40, cleared the N.C. House with a 75-43 vote and the Senate with a 27-16 margin. Six House Democrats and one Senate Democrat joined Republican majorities to support the measure.Both margins surpassed the three-fifths majority required to override a gubernatorial veto. Cooper announced on March 17 that he would not use his veto stamp.he said.There is no timetable for a decision on the ACLU's suit.
This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal . The author of this post is CJ Staff The legal battle between North Carolina's attorney general and Wake County's district attorney over a 1931 criminal libel law has reached an end.Attorneys for A.G. Josh Stein filed paperwork in federal court Tuesday withdrawing a motion for summary judgment in the case. In a separate document, Stein's lawyers agreed with lawyers for Wake D.A. Lorrin Freeman that theStein and Freeman are both Democrats.Stein's filings arrived one week after Freeman objected to Stein's motion for summary judgment, which would have given him a victory in his lawsuit challenging the 92-year-old law. Freeman also had filed paperwork on March 26 asking the court to dismiss Stein's case.Stein based his motion for summary judgment on a favorable ruling from the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. That court ruled on Feb. 8 that Stein was likely to win his argument that the challenged law violated the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.One day after the 4th Circuit's decision, Freeman announced her office had closed its case against Stein in connection with the challenged law, N.C. Gen. Stat.  163-274(a)(9).wrote Joseph Zeszotarski, the private attorney representing Freeman, in March.A dismissalwould block Stein from filing suit again on the same issue.The deadline to pursue charges against Stein or any co-defendants ran out on March 23, according to Freeman's court filing.Zeszotarski wrote.he added.Zeszotarski wrote.Freeman's filing also referenced the 4th Circuit's decision favoring Stein.Zeszotarski wrote.The challenged law dates back to 1931. The statute declares it unlawful, as a Class 2 misdemeanor,A 2-1 ruling from the 4th Circuit last August gave Stein an injunction against the law. The injunction blocked Freeman's office from pursuing criminal charges against Stein and two colleagues.The 4th Circuit injunction arrived one day after the Wake grand jury asked the D.A.'s office to present indictments against Stein, chief of staff Seth Dearmin, and 2020 campaign manager Eric Stern.The controversy stemmed from Stein's 2020 re-election campaign. Stein, a Democrat, defeated Republican challenger Jim O'Neill, the Forsyth County district attorney. Stein's winning margin was just 13,622 votes out of 5.4 million ballots cast.Stein and O'Neill criticized each other during the campaign over the issue of untested rape kits. After O'Neill accused Stein of allowing thousands of rape kits to remain untested andStein responded with a TV ad titledThe ad featured Juliette Grimmett, a sexual assault survivor who worked for Stein in the N.C. Justice Department. At one point in the ad, Grimmett said,O'Neill filed a complaint with the State Board of Elections, calling the ad false and defamatory. O'Neill cited the now-disputed state law. A state elections board investigator looked into the case and turned over findings to the Wake D.A. in 2021.Freeman had recused herself from the case, turning it over to prosecutor David Saacks. Saacks sought a more thorough investigation from the SBI. Based on that work, the Wake D.A.'s office proceeded to the grand jury last summer with possible charges connected to the ad.Stein initially won a temporary restraining order in the case from U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles last July. But Eagles later reassessed her ruling and refused to grant Stein an injunction.Thead aired from August through October 2020. Misdemeanor charges in North Carolina come with a two-year statute of limitations. That means that Freeman's office faced an October 2022 deadline to proceed with charges stemming from that ad. A tolling agreement during the course of the litigation allowed the statute of limitations to extend three weeks beyond the resolution of the legal dispute. That deadline expired March 23.
North Carolina Community Foundation elects Kack Harrison Hardin as new board chair; William Brody joins board

Press Release:



RALEIGH, N.C. The Board of Directors of the North Carolina Community Foundation has elected Katharine "Kack" Harrison Hardin as its 10th chair. Hardin succeeds Steven W. Wangerin who served as chair since 2021.



A member of the board since 2014, Hardin previously served as Vice Chair/Treasurer and Finance Chair.



Hardin, a native of Rocky Mount, N.C., is currently the office administrator for James C. Hardin III, PLLC. Following a career as a congressional staff member and a vice president/secretary of NationsBank (now Bank of America) in the Foundation and Endowment Trust Group, Hardin assisted her husband in establishing his own law firm which specializes in trust and estate planning.



She currently lives in Rock Hill, S.C., and has been involved as a board member for Saint Mary's School in Raleigh and the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, a member of the Junior Leagues of Washington, D.C., and Charlotte as well as a committed community volunteer. Hardin received her degrees from Saint Mary's Junior College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.



"I am grateful for the opportunity to further serve North Carolina and I'm proud to be joined by a group of strong servant leaders," Hardin said. "I'm looking forward to continuing NCCF's forward momentum of growth and providing strong philanthropic support of North Carolina's rural communities."



Wangerin stepped in as chair after the death of Rodney E. Martin. Wangerin is the executive vice president and chief credit officer for Coastal Bank & Trust in Jacksonville. He has a long history of involvement with NCCF and is a founding member of the Onslow Caring Community Foundation, an affiliate of NCCF.



"My involvement with NCCF began more than two decades ago and I'm honored to have had the opportunity to lead the board," Wangerin said. "I am proud of the work this organization accomplished during my tenure, including distributing $5.5 million through the North Carolina Healing Communities Fund in support of nonprofits impacted by the pandemic."



"Steve followed in the footsteps of a strong leader and Kack does the same. She is a steady leader who brings a deep understanding of the needs across our state," says Jennifer Tolle Whiteside, NCCF President & CEO. "As we enter our 35th year, she will provide the stability and support we need to continue to grow as we serve our communities."



Additionally, William Brody, of Raleigh, joined the board as a member at large. Originally from Greenville, N.C., Brody is the co-founder and CEO of Nooshee Inc., a biotechnology company focused on creating products in the women's and family health space. Nooshee's first product, a novel breast pump, is actively in development.



Brody earned an undergraduate degree from Duke University in Economics in 2012 and an M.B.A. from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business in 2018. Prior to his time at Nooshee, William founded and managed BlueDot Properties, a real estate investment firm focused on value-add opportunities in eastern and central North Carolina.



He currently serves on the Board of Visitors for the Fuqua School of Business, chairs the Investment Committee for the East Carolina University Medical and Health Sciences Foundation and sits on the Greenville, N.C., regional board for Towne Bank.



About the North Carolina Community Foundation



The North Carolina Community Foundation is the single statewide community foundation serving North Carolina and has administered more than $217 million in grants since its inception in 1988. With more than $440 million in assets, NCCF sustains more than 1,200 endowments established to provide long-term support of a broad range of community needs, nonprofit organizations, institutions and scholarships.



NCCF partners with a network of affiliate foundations to provide local resource allocation and community assistance across the state. An important component of NCCF's mission is to ensure that rural philanthropy has a voice at the local, regional and national levels.



To learn more, visit nccommunityfoundation.org.





Contact: Amy Dominello Braun

Senior Communications & Marketing Officer for the North Carolina Community Foundation

Email: abraun@nccommunityfoundation.org

Phone: 919-256-6922


Germaine Williams Anthony Freeman



Marcus Clayton Trevon Corprew



On 04/13/2023, Investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Drug Unit, Officers with the Washington Police Department and Probation Officers conducted a search of Germaine Williams residence located at 829 Boston Avenue in Washington. Investigators found approximately 86 grams of Marijuana, digital scales and a 9mm pistol with no serial numbers. Williams was charged with Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Williams was confined in the Beaufort County Detention Center under a $60,000.00 secured bond.On 04/14/2023, Investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Drug Unit arrested Anthony Freeman, 46 years of age, of 646 Pantego Street in Belhaven and Marcus Clayton, 42 years of age, of 642 Edward Street in Belhaven. Freeman was charged with two (2) counts of Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Clayton was charged with Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Their arrest stemmed from Investigators executing a Search Warrant at 646 East Pantego Street in Belhaven after making purchases of cocaine from Freeman. Investigators found cocaine packaged for resale and marijuana.Freeman was confined in the Beaufort County Detention Center under a $17,000.00 secured bond. Clayton was confined in the Beaufort County Detention Center under a $7,000.00 secured bond.On 04/19/2023, Investigators with the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office Drug Unit arrested Trevon Corprew, 24 years of age, of 1995 Slatestone Road in Washington. Corprew was charged with two (2) counts of Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Corprew's arrest stemmed from Investigators making controlled purchases of marijuana from Corprew and executing a Search Warrant at 1995 Slatestone Road in Washington. Investigators found approximately 150 grams of marijuana, digital scales, packaging material and a 32-caliber pistol. Corprew was confined in the Beaufort County Detention Center under a $20,000.00 secured bond.
Adolf Hitler in locking down totalitarian control of Germany imposed his Reich gun law in 1938 and it is still in force today, severely limiting the ability of Germans to legally own guns. That, combined with an influx of Third World migrants has led to an explosion of knife crime. Germany's largest state, North Rhein - Westphalia is now seeing 12 knife attacks per day, most of them perpetrated by migrants.

https://rmx.news/crime/knife-madness-germanys-left-claims-socially-marginalized-persons-are-behind-soaring-knife-attacks-in-countrys-biggest-state/

The same scenario has happened in the UK after gun control was imposed, with knife ctime, including multiple mass stabbing Muslim terrorist incidents exploding.

German citiznes are increasingly turning to acquiring guns illegally in order to defend themselves. With the dropping of border formalities bewteen European countries, Germans travel to countries like Switzerland, the Czech Republic, or Poland where it is much easier to buy a gun, and then bring it back illegally. The Czech Republic, repsonding to its history of totalitarian dictatorship by Nazis then communists, put a very strong gun ownership rights amendment in their Consitituion last year.
By: Andrew Dunn

After months of internal discussions, General Assembly leaders unveiled a bill last week that would begin protecting the lives of unborn children at 12 weeks of pregnancy. It moved quickly through both chambers and now sits on the governors desk.

The bill is significantly more moderate than legislation enacted in other Southern states, and it seems designed to be able to withstand Gov. Roy Cooper's certain veto.

However, that outcome is far from certain.

While General Assembly leaders say they have the votes, several Republican representatives in swing districts have publicly campaigned on keeping North Carolina's abortion laws as they are. One, in particular, has boxed himself into a tight corner  vowing on the campaign trail to defy GOP leadership when an abortion bill came up for a vote.

His vote appears to be the key that will decide whether the bill succeeds or fails. And he now faces an unprecedented pressure campaign from both sides of the aisle.

Here's what you need to know about the bill and its prospects.

The changing abortion landscape

The last time North Carolina enacted a significant abortion law was in 1973, when the Democratic majority passed a bill that set a cut-off for abortion at 20 weeks of pregnancy. That was the same year Roe v. Wade was decided, which pushed the cut-off out to the point of viability, between 24 and 28 weeks.

When Roe v. Wade fell last year, North Carolina essentially reverted back to that 1973 law. But a lot has changed since then, both politically and scientifically.

Ultrasound technology has become widespread, giving parents and doctors a better view of how babies develop in the womb. These scientific advances have animated the pro-life movement, which hinges on the realization that fetuses are vulnerable children who deserve protection.

But the political conversation has shifted dramatically, as well. Abortion was once widely viewed as a necessary evil, and Democrats and Republicans varied significantly in their views on how it should be legislated. Pro-life Democrats and pro-choice Republicans existed across the country.

Today, the left celebrates abortion as a positive good, and there are vanishingly view pro-life Democrats left. On the flip side, Republicans have become increasingly pro-life, and the issue has become a core part of the conservative movement.

The people of North Carolina largely fall between the two sides. Polling indicates that North Carolinians are broadly uneasy with the concept of abortion, but also wary of changing the status quo. They want restrictions and are open to making them tighter than they are today. However, they do not want to end the practice entirely.

Against that backdrop comes this year's legislative session. The fall of Roe v. Wade essentially forces states to make a decision on the issue. Blue states have expanded access to abortion, in several cases up to the point of birth.

Red states have largely chosen to adopt "heartbeat bills" that protect unborn children between 6 and 8 weeks of pregnancy.

About North Carolina's bill

North Carolina's abortion bill, Senate Bill 20, also falls between the two sides.

The bill essentially sets the cut-off for abortion at 12 weeks of pregnancy, around the end of the first trimester. However, there are exceptions that allow abortions later in pregnancy if the mother's life is at risk, or in cases of rape, incest, or fetal abnormality.

There are also new requirements for medication abortions to include more in-person visits and more disclosure of the details and risks involved.

Liberal activists and Attorney General Josh Stein have claimed the bill will force abortion clinics to shut down across the state, but there is no evidence that this is true. The bill also allows some 80% of abortions in North Carolina to continue.

Still, the bill represents a step in a pro-life direction.

"Abortion is not a solution to the challenges that women face. It is a tragic and irreversible act of violence that ends the life of an innocent child," Sen. Amy Galey (R-Alamance) said on the floor last week. "We must work to create a society that values and supports women rather than pushing them toward abortion as a solution."

To that end, the bill also includes more than $180 million in additional spending to support pregnant women and children after they're born. This includes childcare subsidies, adoption assistance, education assistance for parents, efforts to reduce infant and maternal mortality, and more paid maternity and paternity leave for state workers.

A 12-week cut-off means the bill is a disappointment to many pro-life voters who had hoped for more protections for babies in the womb. But any tightening of abortion restrictions is anathema to the Democratic Party, and they've reacted in outrage to the bill.

Gov. Roy Cooper's pressure campaign

Leading the charge is Gov. Roy Cooper, who will veto the bill now that it is on his desk. He is also mounting a pressure campaign on four Republican General Assembly members he believes may ultimately decide to sustain his veto. Just one defection in either chamber would kill a veto override.

Here they are, in order of likelihood of defecting, from least likely to most likely.

Sen. Michael Lee of New Hanover County

Rep. Tricia Cotham of Mecklenburg County

Rep. John Bradford of Mecklenburg County

Rep. Ted Davis of New Hanover County

Lee seems like a safe bet to vote to override the veto. While he narrowly won a swing district, he's been upfront about his stance on the abortion issue. In an op-ed penned in the (Wilmington) StarNews last fall, he said he supports setting the cut-off at the end of the first trimester. Senate Bill 20 does that.

Cotham is a more unusual case. She was elected as a Democrat last fall, but became a Republican after being ostracized and shunned by her former party for failing to fall into line with all of its stances.

As a Democrat, she was endorsed by several pro-abortion groups, and she's spoken in the past about wanting politicians to be "unwavering and unapologetic in their support of abortion rights." However, the Republican caucus must have designed Senate Bill 20 with her support at the top of mind, and she voted in favor of it on the House floor last week.

As for Bradford, he's the representative of a swingy suburban Charlotte district and the lone General Assembly member to be elected from the area in the last few cycles. He told Axios Charlotte last fall that he supports the status quo and that he had "no intentions myself of going back to Raleigh and trying to make the 20 weeks more restrictive.

But that answer leaves plenty of wiggle room. He was not the driving force behind this bill and did not say he wouldn't vote for efforts to tighten abortion restrictions. He voted in favor of Senate Bill 20 last week, as well.

Rep. Ted Davis is boxed in a corner

And then there's Davis. He presents the most difficult case and seems to be the most likely to kill this bill.

Davis is one of several representatives from New Hanover County, whose swing district includes parts of Wilmington and smaller beach towns.

On the campaign trail, he was adamant about his support for keeping abortion laws as-is.

On a podcast episode with the New Hanover County Republican Party last October, Davis said he wanted to keep the status quo. "I support what the law is in North Carolina right now," he said. He cast himself as a moderate on the issue, between the far left and far right.

But in a candidate forum with WECT, he went even further. He reiterated his stance on the current law, but then said he would defy pressure from his caucus to change North Carolina's abortion law. You can view his remarks at about the 50-minute mark of this video.

The Speaker does not tell me what to do, he said, growing more animated as he went.

I'm not going to be influenced because the Speaker of the House might say what he might want to do. That in no way shape or form means that's what I'm going to do. I'm going to vote to keep it just the way it is.

Davis did not vote on Senate Bill 20 in the House last week. He's listed as an "excused absence," though he was present for a vote on another bill just 6 minutes before.

Rep. Ted Davis of New Hanover County. Screengrab from the candidate forum as he spoke about his stance on abortion.

What comes next?

Longleaf Politics reached out to Davis to talk about his potential override vote, but he did not respond.

Politically, Davis has boxed himself into a tight corner  and it's unclear why he put himself in this position. His stance didn't stop the Democratic candidate in the race from hitting him on the abortion issue. He could easily have given himself more wiggle room without damaging himself politically.

But here we are.

Republican leadership has undoubtedly talked with Davis about how he will vote. Perhaps he has gotten assurances that his district will be drawn more friendly to him later this year. House Speaker Tim Moore has said he feels confident all 72 Republicans will vote to override the upcoming veto.

But votes can change, and Davis's seems the most uncertain. When the bill comes up for an override vote in the House, it will almost certainly be dramatic.
Another restaurant in Beaumont has closed its doors.

Logan's Roadhouse in Beaumont has permanently shut its doors after "failing to meet requirements" to renew their lease, a representative from SPB Hospitality, the parent company of Logan's Roadhouse, told The Enterprise Monday afternoon.

"As of now, all that we know is that they just chose to permanently close," the representative said. "It does not affect any of the other Logan's Roadhouse (locations)."

The restaurant permanently closed after end-of-business Sunday, SPB Hospitality Director of Communications and Cause Marketing Ryan Russell told The Enterprise in a statement Tuesday.

RELATED: Beaumont Facebook group dedicated to positive restaurant reviews has over 19,000 members

"At SPB Hospitality, our decisions on restaurant closures are influenced by everything from real estate, new restaurant decisions and lease-negotiation strategies," the statement said. "We do not take these decisions lightly and after careful review, we have made the strategic decision to close this location. We want to express our sincere gratitude to our patrons who have supported us over the years at this location. We are grateful for the memories and experiences we have shared together and we will always cherish the relationships we have built with our loyal customers."

The closest remaining locations are in Dickinson, Houston and Lufkin, according to the company's website.

Under a Facebook post regarding the location's closure in the Southeast Texas Restaurant Reviews group, community members pitched ideas for chain restaurants to open new locations in the 4185 N Dowlen Rd. building, such as Tia Juanita's and Denny's, among others.
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NEW YORK (AP)  The Associated Press won two Pulitzer Prizes on Monday for its coverage of the war in Ukraine, earning recognition for its breaking news photography of the Russian invasion, as well as the prestigious public service award for its startling  and exclusive  dispatches from the besieged port city of Mariupol.

AP journalists were also finalists in two Pulitzer categories, for breaking news photography of Sri Lankas political crisis and for feature photography of the Ukraine war's impact on older people.

For the public service award, the Pulitzer judges acknowledged AP  which had the only international journalists in Mariupol for nearly three weeks  for capturing notable images of an injured, pregnant woman being rushed to medical help and Russia firing on civilian targets.

APs Mariupol team was made up of videojournalist Mstyslav Chernov, photographer Evgeniy Maloletka and video producer Vasilisa Stepanenko on the ground in the besieged city, and reporter Lori Hinnant in Paris.

Other winners of two Pulitzers apiece were AL.com, of Birmingham, Alabama, the Los Angeles Times, The New York Times and The Washington Post.

The Pulitzers honor the best in journalism from 2022 in 15 categories, as well as eight arts categories focused on books, music and theater. The public service winner receives a gold medal. All other winners receive $15,000.

Kyle Whitmire, of AL.com, won a commentary award for measured and persuasive columns about Alabamas Confederate heritage and a legacy of racism.

His Alabama colleagues John Archibald, Ashley Remkus, Ramsey Archibald and Challen Stephens won a local reporting award for a probe into a local police force.

It was a second Pulitzer win for John Archibald, who previously won in 2018 for commentary, and the first for his son, Ramsey Archibald. Remkus and Stephens were also picking up their second Pulitzers, after being part of a team that won in 2021 for national reporting.

The recognition is tremendous and were grateful our work is being honored on the national stage like this, Kelly Ann Scott, editor in chief and vice president of Alabama Media Group, said in a statement. This is local journalism at its best  and local journalism is the heartbeat of this countrys journalism in general.

The New York Times was honored with an international reporting award for its coverage of Russian killings in the Ukrainian town of Bucha. Pulitzers were also given for work surrounding the U.S. Supreme Courts decision overturning the Roe v. Wade abortion standard, the governments policy of child separation at the border, and welfare spending in Mississippi.

The Washington Posts Caroline Kitchener won for unflinching reporting on the consequences of the abortion decision, including the story of a Texas teenager who gave birth to twins after new restrictions denied her an abortion. The Posts Eli Saslow won for feature writing.

The Los Angeles Times won for breaking news for its stories revealing a secretly recorded conversation with city officials making racist comments. The newspapers Christina House won for feature photography, for her images of a 22-year-old pregnant woman living on the street.

The AP coverage of Mariupol, according to the Ukrainian citys deputy mayor, focused the worlds attention on the devastation there and ultimately pressured Russians to open an evacuation route, saving thousands of civilian lives.

They told the world of the human toll of this war in its earliest days, AP Executive Editor Julie Pace said during a staff Zoom celebration. They served as a counterweight against Russian disinformation, and they helped open up a humanitarian corridor out of Mariupol with the power of their work.

The AP team that won for breaking news photography included Maloletka, who was part of the Mariupol coverage, along with Bernat Armangue, Emilio Morenatti, Felipe Dana, Nariman El-Mofty, Rodrigo Abd and Vadim Ghirda.

AP's director of photography, David Ake, credited winners in the breaking news photography category for simply staying put in a war zone to bear witness.

You cant make the moment that captures the world if youre not there, and being there is often dirty and difficult and dangerous, he said.

Pulitzer Prize Board co-chair Neil Brown highlighted the dangers faced by journalists, noting the imprisonment in Russia of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on spying charges, which his family and the newspaper vehemently deny. Brown said the board demands Gershkovich's immediate release.

The Atlantic won the Pulitzer for explanatory journalism for Caitlin Dickersons exhaustive probe of the Trump administration policy of separating parents from children at the U.S. border.

The Wall Street Journal won for its investigation into federal officials holding stock that could have been affected by government action, including dozens who reported trading stock in companies shortly before their own agencies announced enforcement actions against them.

Anna Wolfe, of Mississippi Today, was honored for her reporting on a former Mississippi governor sending federal welfare money to family and friends, including NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre.

Andrew Long Chu, of New York magazine, won a Pulitzer for criticism. Nancy Ancrum, Amy Driscoll, Luisa Yanez, Isadora Rangell and Lauren Constantino, of the Miami Herald, won for editorial writing. Mona Chalabi, a contributor to The New York Times, won for illustrated reporting and commentary. The staff of Gimlet Media won for audio reporting.

The prizes were established in the will of newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer and first awarded in 1917.
Walking KVLU 91.3's offices on the second floor of Lamar's University Theatre, there's a sense of calm.

Whether it's the tranquil color palette of the walls and floor or the general quiet that envelopes you as you walk in, things seem to slow down a bit once inside. That makes sense -- a radio station needs to be quiet, particularly during live shows.

While the general surroundings of the office might not suggest it, KVLU has been undergoing some changes.

The main transition stems from the retirement of longtime station manager Byron Balentine, who said goodbye to the position just before the new year after working for the NPR affiliate for 45 years.

Some five months later, the station has a new leader in a familiar face.

Just this month, longtime production director and Lamar University alum Jason Miller was named to the position. Miller has been a fixture at KVLU since the late 1990s, rising through the ranks from pushing certain buttons at designated times to hosting his own shows.

The Enterprise sat down in his KVLU office -- amongst his hundreds of CDs -- to talk about what his new role means to him and why public radio is still important.

Q: What initially drew you to radio?

A: I used to like to just listen to the Top 40 station, the 'Top 9 at 9' (segment) and I would try to call in and list the top nine (songs) so that I could win something, or I would try to call the contest where they played like one note of a song (that you had to guess). KKMY (104.5 Kiss FM), they did a Saturday night classics party and you would call, they would record you and they would play (it back) and I would record it off the radio.

I would record songs off the radio to listen to -- my generation did that because you couldn't (always) afford to go buy it. When you listened to it on your Walkman, you had your song off the radio. I just liked to listen to it. I didn't think I would do (radio), and I didn't necessarily know if I could do it, but I like it and I thought it was interesting.

I listened to a lot of radio, which now is not really a thing. I just had a fascination with the whole process. When I worked in radio out of high school, that's what motivated me to do it. I had an uncle that was working for a station, he was going here to Lamar, and he didn't have time for the shifts anymore and he suggested me to his manager. I went through the process and then they put me running stuff -- you don't talk (on the radio) right away. You're pushing buttons, playing pre-recorded stuff and then slowly, you get to say a station ID or you get to read the weather.

Q: What has kept you at KVLU this whole time?

A: Media is interesting because (there's a lot of ) stories where people go to some type of media outlet and they do whatever they have to do and then all of a sudden, somebody says to a student working there, 'Oh so-and-so can't do a show, do you want to do one?'

It was kind of like that (for me). I got a job right out of high school while going to Lamar at KQXY (94.1 in Beaumont) and KQHN, which is the AM (station) and they hired me for the AM but I did a little bit on KQXY, too. As I'm doing that, I already was listening to KVLU when I was in high school because I was in jazz band (and KVLU played jazz music). I worked at KQXY and KQHN for about two-and-a-half years. A friend of mine, who played in the band (at Lamar), told me that (KVLU) was looking for students to work here. I came up and I interviewed and I got the job here. I worked for (both stations) for a summer and then I transitioned here because it was easier since I was taking classes at Lamar.

They put you on the news and you play pre-recorded stuff and then eventually you can talk a little bit. And then somebody can't be there for afternoon jazz and you do one and someone can't be there on Saturday and you do their (spot). You keep doing it and then a show vacates -- it was a Friday night jazz show -- and then it becomes your show. So, you just stick around. You are always ready to do whatever and learn whatever

Q: What does it mean for you to now be station manager? Is that ever a position you saw yourself being in?

A: You're locked into what you do and you're working with a manager like Byron, who had been there for a long time, who is a mentor, who's a friend, somebody that's been great to bounce ideas off of. When (the position) became available, that's when the thought process came in for me. Because over time, you see things that might work better, that you could change or modify. At the same time, you have to kind of organize all those (ideas).

I used the experience that I had to see things we could maintain and things we could change. You just have to make those calls with your team.

Q: What does a station manager do?

A: Sign a lot of stuff (he laughs). No, a station manager really leads the team of all of our departments that we have. We've got our production and we've got our programming, development, underwriting, membership. (Station managers) lead the team and they work with the team to make the station the best it can be for the audience.

Q: Was it nerve-wracking to take over for Byron or was it exciting to take advantage of the new opportunity?

A: It was more exciting because being able to work with (Byron) as your supervisor, your mentor, it wasn't nerve-wracking because he's still around to bounce stuff off of. I even reached out to our manager before him (to bounce ideas off of).

You feel honored to be able to step into that role, because we had worked together for so long. It would be totally different if you went somewhere and you didn't know your predecessor and you don't know (what their reaction will be). That would have been nerve-wracking.

Q: What is the importance of public radio today? Why should people still be tuning into KVLU?

A: Working in the 90s, we witnessed a big change in radio. It was everything from where a company owns almost all the stations in an area -- there's no locally-owned stations anymore. All of a sudden, MP3s show up. All of a sudden, streaming shows up, we were scared of satellite radio.

You're losing local and personality-driven (radio), that's what's kind of phasing out.

But why people should still listen to public radio is because despite all of those (changes), public radio is going to give you the quality of NPR news reporting and it's going to give you all of this personality-driven hosted shows and local content about arts and culture. That's what it's going to give you, that's what you donate towards whenever you donate, you contribute toward all the programs.

Q: What is your favorite thing about working here?

A: It's shifted a little bit actually. If you had asked that question before, I would have said it was hosting the music shows.

Now, it's shifted to interviewing and having conversations with people and learning about what they do, telling the stories about the people and places in Southeast Texas.

I get to learn about all kinds of other stuff -- you're talking to people from authors, engineers, professors, all of these people. I get to tell stories and I think that's my favorite part.

olivia.malick@hearst.com
Another Port Arthur city council election is headed for a runoff.

Just like District 4, the District 3 race is not over yet.

Doneane Beckcom tallied the most votes in Saturdays election with 217, or 38.75%. A runoff occurs when a candidate does not receive at least 50% of total votes.

Nobody ever wishes for a runoff. Obviously, we were hoping it was going to be a one-and-done thing. Honestly, Im not surprised because in a race with four people, chances are youre going to end up in a runoff, Beckcom said.

RELATED: Kenneth Marks, Harold Doucet saw Port Arthur District 4 runoff coming

Wanda Lewis Bodden tallied 145 votes, or 25.89%. Charlie Lewis, Jr. had 124 votes, or 22.14%. Charles Joseph had 74 votes, or 13.21%.

(The runoff) feels wonderful because Im in it to win it, Bodden said. The voter turnout was low, but I think that it gives people in Port Arthur a second chance to make their vote and voice (count) so Im happy about it.

In hindsight, candidates were disappointed in low voter turnout numbers. Only 9.13% of registered voters in Port Arthur cast ballots in this years city council elections.

While Bodden didnt necessarily see a runoff coming, Joseph did.

RELATED: Willie "Bae" Lewis, Jr. narrowly wins Port Arthur District 1 race

I knew (Beckcom) was gonna be the person in the runoff. I knew that me and the other candidates most likely was going to probably split certain vote. So definitely, I knew it was gonna be a runoff, Joseph said.  Were all newcomers when it comes to city council, and we knew it was gonna be a tough race.

Lewis, Jr. could not be reached for comment.

Beckcom is a lawyer and college professor, who entered the race hoping to address drainage and transparency issues within the city.

Bodden, a retired educator, wants to see more accountability and community engagement between law enforcement and residents in the district.

RELATED: Photos: Scenes from the polls on election day

Kinlaw and Frank cruise to re-election, Hamilton easily wins District 2 seat

Thomas Kinlaw III won Saturdays District 5 election with 1,322 votes, or 55.41% of the votes.

"It's actually gratifying that the city of Port Arthur... has confidence in me to continue serving on the council to get things done with the city of Port Arthur. I'm very happy that I was able to obtain (the majority) with the four-man race, which is so hard to do," Kinlaw said. "I think if my track record speaks for itself, it shows that I'm a person that wants to move in a direction that benefits the entire city."

Kinlaw has served as District 3 Council member since 2017 and was Mayor Pro Tem in 2018. He is also the current chairman of the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone.

Kinlaw beat Cal J. Jones, who had 21.42% of the votes, Matthews Christian, Jr., who had 16.26% of the votes, and Allen Jacobs, Jr., who had 6.92% of the votes, to win the seat.

Looking back, Jones, who's wrapping up his term as the current District 2 city council member, believes he gave everything he had during his tenure.

"I couldn't do nothing different... When I say I'm a 24/7 councilman, I was there any time of day, night even, no matter what the call was, how small, how big... I was there for the people all the time," Jones said.

Christian said he wished he had spent more time campaigning, but he dealt with some health issues along the way. Despite how the race unfolded, he plans to run for office again when positions are up for future elections.

"My love for Port Arthur still hasn't changed, even though I didn't win," said Christian, who also ran for mayor in 2022.

Jacobs, said it was difficult for him to balance his campaign with running his mechanic shop, and low voter turnout didn't help, either.

"I couldn't do what I wanted to do... I didn't have any other people running the polls for me or anything because I was doing it all by myself," he said.

In District 6, Donald Ray Frank, Sr. won with or 65.93% of the votes over Chuck Vincent's 34.07%.

Im grateful for the margin, but Im more especially grateful that people have a confidence that I will continue to represent them in a manner that will move our city forward, Frank said, adding that ongoing projects like the new water plant resonated with voters.

When asked for a comment on the election, Vincent again alleged corruption taking place within Port Arthur City Council.

Frank has served as the Position 8 At-Large City Council member since 2020 and is the current Mayor Pro Tem.

Tiffany L. Hamilton defeated Armando Ruiz with 73.72% of the votes, over Ruiz's 26.28%, to win the District 2 seat.

It feels very good to have the faith of the people willing to support, and Im ready to go to work, said Hamilton, who was the citys District 2 representative from 2014 to 2017. They noticed that after 2017, I never stopped serving the community. I believe that Ive proven that I will continue to serve... I believe that continuing to stay in the public eye definitely helped me We never lost connections with the city.

Ruiz could not be reached for comment.
A flash flood warning has replaced an earlier tornado warning for several Southeast Texas counties.

According to the National Weather Service Lake Charles office, a flash flood warning for Hardin County, south central Jasper County, north central Jefferson County and northwest Orange County will be in effect until 7:15 p.m. Monday evening.

With severe weather commencing as almost all local schools dismissed for the day Monday, some districts are alerting of potential delays in students being taken home by bus.

Hardin-Jefferson ISD

Just before 3:30 p.m., Hardin-Jefferson ISD said in a Facebook post that it would hold buses until weather conditions improve. By 3:40 p.m., the district had posted that it would release car riders and bus riders at 3:40 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., respectively.

"We are aware of some damage near roadways on a few of our bus routes," the post read. "Some routes may be delayed."

Lumberton ISD

Lumberton ISD at 3:35 p.m. sent out an alert to parents that the district will shelter-in-place until the weather has cleared, causing buses and transportation to run late.

"We will resume routes when the weather has cleared," the alert said.

Silsbee ISD

Silsbee ISD at 3:20 p.m. made a post alerting parents that bus routes and car pick up lines might be delayed due to severe weather.

Bus routes and car lines resumed at 3:48 p.m.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

A deadly weekend in Texas ended with 18 individuals losing their lives and another 18 injured. Saturday, May, 6 started with another mass shooting during the afternoon at an outlet mall in Allen near Dallas. The mall mass shooting was then followed with a driver plowing into a group of migrants sitting near a bus stop in Brownsville early on Sunday morning, in an incident that police are investigating as possibly "intentional," authorities said.

While the political rhetoric continues with prayers and mental illness being the cause of people dying repeatedly from mass shootings and escalation of hate crimes. The rhetoric is similar in consequence to what happened on Jan. 6 and what authorities are speculating happened in Brownsville. However, the majority of Texas citizens want lawmakers to act beyond prayers.
A Texas high school was overrun with raccoons at the end of April when several were discovered in classrooms and hallways.

Students reported seeing one fall through the ceiling inside a classroom and one run out from inside a bathroom. Others even said they could smell a dead raccoon corpse decaying inside the school walls.

Six catches and releases all in the span of three days is the most we have ever seen here at school, one student said.

Student reporters at the high school who covered the incident also said its not the first time raccoons invaded their school. While researching for their story, they found articles on infestations from the 90s, early 2000s, and even the 2010s.

One student said he has also seen squirrels and rats coming out from holes everywhere in the 70-year-old school building.

Campus officers and school staff were able to capture and release some of the raccoons during the recent incident, which took place at McCallum High School in Austin.

Austin Independent School District released the following statement: We understand that having raccoons on school grounds can be worrying for parents, and we take this matter seriously. I want to assure you that we are taking steps to address the issue in a humane and effective manner. We have contacted our Pest Management Department, a professional wildlife removal specialist, and they have already started working to prevent them from coming into the building with exclusion work, as well as setting humane traps for any others that we may not know about. The team will safely remove the raccoons from the school grounds and will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the problem is fully resolved.
PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP)  Rallygoers for a political party in Pakistan beat to death a participant for allegedly making a blasphemous speech, police said Sunday.

Local police officer Iqbal Khan said Maulana Nigar Alam, 40, was killed Saturday night by demonstrators in Sawaldher village of Mardan district northeast of Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The rallygoers, gathered to express support for the country's judiciary, accused Alam of blasphemy when he made a concluding prayer at the end of the event.

Some words of his prayer were deemed blasphemous by a number of protestors, leading to torture and death at the hands of the angry mob, said Khan.

Witnesses said the police deputy on duty at the rally attempted to save the man by locking him up in a nearby shop, but the mob broke through the door and attacked him.

Videos circulating on social media showed people pushing the accused man to the ground, kicking him and beating him with batons. The man died at the scene.

Police took the body into custody and said an investigation was underway.

Accusing people of blasphemy in Pakistan is common.

Last month, the Pakistani police arrested and later released a Chinese national named Tian, who was working in Pakistan on a dam project and was accused by the locals of blasphemy.

In February, an angry mob entered a police station in Pakistans eastern city of Lahore, snatched a person accused of blasphemy from his cell and killed him.

In 2021, a Sri Lankan national, Priyantha Diyawadanage, who was working as a factory manager in Pakistan, was killed by an angry mob over allegations of blasphemy.

In 2017, Pakistani student Mashal Khan was killed by a mob on the premises of his university over allegations of posting blasphemous content online.
This week we celebrate Cinco de Mayo! On May 5, 1862, Mexican general Ignacio Zaragoza defeated French expeditionary forces at Puebla, Mexico.

Here are five things happening around your state:

1. Ankle monitor bill heads to the governor

This week, a bill that would increase penalties for tampering with, disabling, or removing an ankle monitor overwhelmingly passed the House. The Senate passed the measure unanimously in late March. Senate Bill 1004, authored by Senator Joan Huffman and sponsored by Representative Abel Herrero, would enhance the penalty for knowingly removing or disabling an ankle monitor to a felony. Currently, the penalty is an administrative violation, not a criminal offense. The bill was prompted by the October 2022 shooting at a hospital in the Dallas area which killed a nurse and a social worker. The alleged perpetrator was a parolee with an ankle monitor who had permission to be at the hospital for the birth of his child. He had cut off his monitor previously. Now the bill heads to Governor Abbotts desk for final approval before it becomes law.

2. Right to Farm passes the Senate

This week, the Senate passed House Joint Resolution 126, a constitutional amendment that would protect the right to engage in farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture, and wildlife management. HJR 126 was authored by Representative DeWayne Burns and sponsored by Senator Charles Perry. As the state grows increasingly more urban, farmers and ranchers within municipal boundaries are subjected to municipal ordinances that can inhibit their operations and production. Cities sometimes use public nuisance ordinances to prohibit agricultural activities. It is important that our state enshrine the right to farm in our state constitution.

3. Bill allowing flexibility for transfer students passes Senate

The Senate passed Senate Bill 418 by Senator Angela Paxton this week. The bill updates statutes governing students who want to transfer from one district or campus to another. The legislation permits students to transfer to any public school that has capacity available and prohibits public school districts from charging these students tuition. The bill sets out parameters for a school district that receives more applications than seats available and requires districts to publicly post the number of available seats they have. The bill also provides protections for school districts for students who violate code of conduct rules, are placed in disciplinary alternative education programs, or are required or permitted to be expelled. Allowing for flexibility in the public school system for students to attend the campus or district of their choice helps ensure we are meeting the needs of our Texas public school students.

4. Texas Parks and Wildlife celebrates centennial

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year and the Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine staff devoted an entire issue to the occasion. The special edition magazine has 100 pages honoring 100 years of parks. There are recommendations for the best parks for fishing, hiking, kayaking, or seeing wildlife. It also highlights the six new parks that will open over the next 12 to 15 years. New parks include Palo Pinto Mountains State Park, Dan A Hughes Unit of the Devils River State Natural Area, Albert and Bessie Kronkosky State Natural Area, Powderhorn State Park, Chinati Mountains State Natural Area, and Davis Hill Sate Natural Area.

5. End of session deadlines, calendar

Now that we are in May, there are some end of session deadlines that are quickly approaching. These deadlines mark the final day that certain bills can be considered by either chamber to realistically have time to pass. They are as follows:
Evan L'Roy/The Texas Tribune

I recently read in the Beaumont Enterprise that BISD Superintendent Shannon Allen wrote a letter to our State Legislature condemning the school voucher program supported by Republicans. Glad Dr. Allen did this. And guess who authored this bill? Our own State Senator Brandon Creighton! He wants to use tax payer money to fund private schools at the expense of public schoolsshameful -- another Republican ploy to prey on those who rely on public education. Give to the well-off and take from the poora very Christian thing to doright? Another slap in the face to public schools and their teachers. Texas ranks 42nd in per student funding and trails the national average by over $4,000 per student. Oh, and private schools do not have to be vetted like public schools.

Also, Creighton filed SB 18, which will deny tenure to new hires at Texas public universities. This bill, if passed, will result in NOT attracting quality professors to our collegesanother gut punch to public education and the economy of our state. Many folks believe once a professor EARNS tenure, this professor cannot be firedthis is not truetenured professors are evaluated and can be fired if found incompetent, immoral or neglecting their job duties.
From declining reimbursements to burnout, physician leaders joined Becker's to discuss the biggest threats to physicians.

Question: What is the biggest threat to physicians right now?

Editor's note: Responses were edited lightly for brevity and clarity.

Timothy Babineau, MD. Principal at ECG Management Consultants: Physician burnout is at an historic high with no clear end or solution in sight. Unless concerted, coordinated and nationally organized efforts begin to tackle this problem in a meaningful way, we will continue to see early retirements and continued erosion of our physician workforce  to the great detriment of American healthcare.

Thomas Castillo, DO. Ophthalmologist in Beaver Dam, Wis.: The biggest threat to physicians right now is the over-regulation of healthcare by governmental agencies and insurance companies. This is made even worse when these regulations create situations where the regulations of one agency oppose the regulations of another agency.

Joel Cleary, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon at Memphis Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Grangeville, Idaho): Themselves.  When the organization appears to be more important than the historical mission, the organization has become dysfunctional. And their greed. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons is a good example. I find it amazing that the starting salary for an ortho surgeon is less than $500,000 a year. They gave up autonomy to insurance companies, politicians and bureaucrats for the big bucks.

Divya Joshi, MD. Pediatrician in Lawrenceville, Ga.: Biggest threat to physicians: burnout from increasing administrative demands and decreasing joy at work due to decreased interaction time with patients.

David Farkas, MD. Emergency Room Physician in Park City, Utah: I think the biggest threat is loss of trust in physicians. Especially after the pandemic, people were receiving conflicting information and getting medical information from various sources. A general misunderstanding of medicine and science in general is very concerning.

Laura Lowenstein. Healthcare Attorney and President of oNet Systems: Healthcare consolidation and regulatory capture. These are two forces squeezing independent providers and practices from both sides. Healthcare consolidation, especially in the hands of a few large national insurers (or related subsidiaries) has created narrower networks by design with less patient choice and satisfaction. As we create siloed health systems, we destroy the free market and allow large corporations to restructure how healthcare spend is allocated. Healthcare dollars are increasingly diverted to the third-party administrator profit centers, as opposed to being spent directly on patient care. When you couple this system with regulatory capture that results in new regulations and laws that do not take account of downstream impacts that cripple independent practices, the NSA being a recent clear example, you end up with a healthcare model that singularly serves the shareholders of large healthcare companies at the expense of a functioning healthcare system with patient care and the provider-patient relationship at the center.

Trevin Mayabb, MD. Family Medicine Physician at Ferguson Medical Group (Sikeston, Mo.): I believe the biggest threat to physicians is burnout. To me, the continued pressures from documentation burden, reimbursement issues, addressing prior authorizations and generally having to spend time in the EHR instead of direct patient care is a challenge that providers continue to deal with. A provider can feel like they are getting more administrative work than bargained for during medical training.

Matt Mazurek, MD. Assistant Clinical Professor of Anesthesiology and Director of Quality and Safety at St. Raphael's Campus of Yale New Haven (Conn.) Hospital: Physician burnout remains very high post-pandemic, and research has identified a few main causes which continue to be unaddressed by most hospital systems. The top three are workplace inefficiencies and administrative burden, workload and less time with patients, and loss of autonomy. These issues are systemic, and placing the burden on physicians to correct the cause of burnout exacerbates the problem. Additionally, physicians working in short-staffed, stressed environments with high workloads are primed to become exhausted and burned out.

Dennis Quagliani. President and CEO of Healthcare Associates: Declining reimbursement in parallel to cost increases in labor, supplies, drugs, etc.

Mukesh Sharma, MD. Interventional Nephrologist at Sierra Nevada Specialty Care (Reno, Nev.): I believe the biggest threat is dwindling reimbursements in the face of escalating employee costs coupled with higher wages to retain employees to run practices and ASCs Most everyone other than physicians have had an increase in wages during the past few years and the cost of running a practice has increased a lot without a comparable increase in revenue. This has led to a decrease in net profit to many independent practices across the country that are staring at depleting reserves and struggling to stay afloat.

Thomas Terndrup, MD. Professor of Emergency Medicine at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus): Loss of individual autonomy, respect by public and disharmony with patients over medical decision-making. Increasingly, physicians decide to constrain, stop or retire in large numbers.
Hospital ransomware attacks can also constrain resources at nearby facilities and should be considered a "regional disaster," a May 8 study in JAMA Network Open found.

The UC San Diego Health researchers analyzed an academic emergency room that fell victim to a month-long ransomware event in May 2021, as well as one located close by, comparing the four-week time periods before, during and after the attack. Both ERs are in San Diego County.

They discovered that the nearby ER had significant increases during the cyberattack in daily census, emergency medical services arrivals, patients leaving without being seen or against medical advice, median wait times, ER lengths of stay, stroke code activations, and confirmed strokes.

"Recognizing that cybersecurity attacks can impact adjacent hospitals is a step towards realizing the need for regional cooperation just like a natural disaster or other major emergency," said Christopher Longhurst, MD, the study's senior author and chief medical officer and chief digital officer at UC San Diego Health, in a May 8 news release.
After Franklin, Ind.-based Johnson Memorial Health was hit by a Hive ransomware attack in October 2021, the hospital reverted to nondigital methods  including the use of pen and paper  to keep delivering care, NPR reported May 8.

Hospital officials consulted with the FBI on paying the $3 million ransom request. However, paying the ransom could have resulted in heavy fines for the hospital.

Instead, Johnson Memorial decided to disconnect and rebuild its systems. In the meantime, staff used paper medical records, physically guarded the doors of the obstetrics unit, as the infant tracking system was offline, and took advantage of whiteboards.

Johnson Memorial's billing department was particularly affected, as it became more difficult to pay bills on time.

The hospital's COO, Rick Kester, told NPR it took nearly six months to resume near-normal operations.

Hive has targeted 80 victims across 1,500 counties, according to the Justice Department.
Big corporations are scooping up primary care practices to get access to vast numbers of patients while positioning themselves for the shift to value-based care, The New York Times reported May 8.

The story cited CVS Heath's $10.6 billion purchase of Oak Street Health, Amazon's $3.9 billion deal for One Medical and Optum's employment of roughly 70,000 physicians. The companies hope to treat the more than 30 million Americans on Medicare Advantage, which the federal government is paying private payers $400 billion a year to administer.

"That's the big pot of money everyone is aiming at," Erin Fuse Brown, director of the Center for Law, Health & Society at Atlanta-based Georgia State University, told The Times. "It's a one-stop shop for all your healthcare dollars."

For instance, while 5 percent of One Medical's 836,000 members are on Medicare Advantage, they account for about half the company's revenues, the newspaper reported, citing 2022 financial statements.

While some experts told the news outlet the jury is still out on whether this will benefit patients  and some value-based care organizations have faced lawsuits and investigations over their referral, billing and patient recruitment practices  other observers say the acquisitions will help increase access to care.

"The salaries of the folks in those arrangements are higher," Ann Greiner, president and CEO of the nonprofit Primary Care Collaborative, told The Times. "They are providing more comprehensive care in many of those arrangements. They are providing more tech and more team-based care. That's all investment."
The federal government ditched its attempt to force Saint Francis Health System to snuff out a sacred candle burning in one of its hospitals, according to a May 5 news release from Becket Law, a nonprofit public interest law firm for religious liberty.

The Joint Commission found one such flame dangerous and in violation of CMS' patient safety policy. In April, HHS threatened to strip the hospital of Medicare, Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program funding unless it blew out the flame.

Saint Francis, a five-hospital system in Tulsa, Okla., argued that a sacred candle is always lit inside its hospital chapels  with various safeguards  in accordance with its Catholic faith.

In a May 5 letter to CMS, an attorney for Saint Francis warned CMS, "If we go to court, you will lose." Saint Francis argued that the government was trampling on the hospital's religious duty to maintain a flame and was trying to separate the health system's religious activities from its healthcare.

"At the heart of Saint Francis' mission is love for God and man. The living flame of our chapel candle indicates to all who enter our hospitals that we will serve them with religious devotion as Christ commands us," Saint Francis CEO Cliff Robertson, MD, said. "We are grateful for the support of Becket and Yetter Coleman, of the Oklahoma Delegation, and of countless persons all throughout the nation, and we are grateful for The Joint Commission and HHS's recognition of our religious liberties."
John Day, Ore.-based Blue Mountain Hospital District's board of directors unanimously voted to restructure home health services, according to The Blue Mountain Eagle.

Hospital officials are working on a plan to increase reimbursement for home health services, which are currently provided by certified nursing assistants who work for the home health department.

Under the new plan, nurses from the hospital district's Strawberry Wilderness Community Clinic would provide home health services.

The change to the visiting nurse service would enable the hospital to bill Medicare, Medicaid and other payers for time spent traveling to see patients in far away areas in the county in addition to time spent caring for patients, which it cannot do under the current model, according to the report.

Last year, the district lost $380,000 in the home health department. Moving to the new structure would eradicate "almost all of the losses we are currently experiencing in home health," CEO Cam Marlowe said in a report to the board.

A virtual nurse service committee will meet to iron out details for the new home health structure, according to The Blue Mountain Eagle.
Northside Medical Midtown hospital in Atlanta reopened May 8 following a shooting inside the facility May 3 that killed one and injured four others.

Northside said May 8 two of the four survivors were staff members at the hospital's Laureate Medical Group, the offices where the shooting took place. At this time, it remains unclear if the other two victims were patients.

"Employees and physicians are returning to the facility  reuniting under a heavy cloud of grief yet resuming their important services to their patients and their families," the hospital stated in a May 8 news release. "They are being greeted by additional uniformed security officers, Northside spiritual leaders, human resources representatives, and behavioral and spiritual health counselors. Physicians are encouraged to participate in a peer-to-peer support service, also being provided at Northside Midtown."

The single fatality from the incident was CDC employee Amy St. Pierre, 38.

"CDC is deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of a colleague killed Wednesday in the Midtown Atlanta shooting," the agency shared in a statement with Becker's. "Our hearts are with her family, friends, and colleagues as they remember her and grieve this tragic loss."

After the incident the facility closed May 4 and took May 5 as a day of reflection. While most offices are reopened, Northside noted that Laureate Medical Group section remains closed while staff develop plans to resume patient care.
Xavier University in Cincinnati is planning to open the nation's first Jesuit College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2027, the organization said May 8.

The private university's board of trustees unanimously approved plans for the medical school May 5. The university is planning to build a new complex on its main campus to house the college and will release more details about the project May 10.

The university plans to welcome its inaugural class of 75 students in 2027, with the goal of eventually growing class sizes to 150.

"Today's announcement comes at a pivotal time, as our university faces a rapidly changing landscape in higher education and our communities throughout the state and multistate region stare down a serious need for additional primary care physicians," said Colleen Hanycz, PhD, president of Xavier University. "Establishing a medical college puts us on the forefront of addressing this need, particularly in underserved communities throughout our region."

Once opened, the osteopathic medical school will be only the second in Ohio and 40th in the U.S.



Learn more here.
Resident and fellow physicians at Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine have voted to join the Committee of Interns and Residents, a local of the Service Employees International Union.

Voting took place May 3-5, and votes were tallied May 8, according to a notice of election from the National Labor Relations Board.

Eighty-eight percent of voting physicians voted in favor of unionization, the Committee of Interns and Residents said in a news release shared with Becker's. The results have not been certified by the NLRB. If results are certified, about 1,400 residents and fellows will negotiate their first contract with Penn Medicine, which comprises University of Pennsylvania Health System and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

"At the end of the day, the prestige of working at a nationally ranked hospital like Penn isn't enough to ensure our patients receive top quality care, to meet our basic needs or to address the deeper inequities of our healthcare system," Madison Sharp, MD, a third-year OB-GYN resident, said in the union release. "Winning representation is a huge step toward addressing these issues and raising care standards for all of us."

Penn Medicine physicians initially launched their unionization push in February. Physicians contend they have struggled for months to advocate to hospital management for improvements to their working conditions and patient care without success. Pay and workloads are among the issues they seek to address.

A Penn Medicine spokesperson shared the following statement with Becker's: "We are proud of Penn Medicine's long history as home to many top residency and fellowship programs, and we have appreciated the ongoing opportunity to hear directly from residents about their concerns during this unionization campaign. We have an obligation to stay true to our shared goals to provide the very best care to our patients, and to ensure that new physicians are able to train in an environment that allows them resources to flourish academically, professionally and personally.

"We respect our trainees' collective decision and remain committed to continuing our work to improve their training experience and ensure that they are fully supported during these transformative years of their medical careers."






Health officials have yet to identify the source of a Klebsiella pneumoniae outbreak tied to 31 illnesses and seven patient deaths at Seattle-based Virginia Mason Medical Center, NPR affiliate KUOW reported May 5.

Hospital leaders are working with the CDC and local public health officials to investigate the outbreak, which started in October. Leaders' first step was to review affected patients' medical records for any potential patterns in terms of where they spent time in the hospital.

The analysis did not reveal any commonalities, so health officials turned to environmental sampling next. Swabs were taken from numerous hospital surfaces in patient rooms and common areas, including sinks and counters, but officials did not find any bacteria matching samples from infected patients.

"Klebsiella pneumoniae, specifically, is a common bug that can actually be found in the human gut, so when an individual uses the bathroom, washes their hands, the bacteria can also colonize those surfaces," Eric Chow, MD, chief of communicable disease epidemiology and immunization for Seattle and King County's public health department, told KUOW.

After this sampling failed to provide a match, Dr. Chow said his team shifted focus to the hospital's general infection control processes. Hand sanitizer was placed outside patient rooms and items were moved away from sinks  a common breeding ground for the bacteria. Virginia Mason has also ramped up surface cleaning processes and replaced parts of the facility's plumbing that could harbor high levels of bacteria.

The next step of outbreak response will involve implementing even more rigorous infection control processes and retesting hospital surfaces to try to pinpoint the source of the bacteria, Dr. Chow said.



"While the risk of transmission is extremely low for patients, we continue to take proactive steps to avoid additional transmission," Virginia Mason said in an April 28 statement.
Generative AI such as ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence-based chatbot developed by OpenAI, is being touted as a tool that can revolutionize healthcare, and although it is pretty new, hospitals and health systems are working on piloting this technology to see if it can be applied to the clinical setting.

Here are four hospitals and health systems piloting, testing or deploying the new technology:
Palo Alto, Calif.-based Stanford Health Care plans to roll out its ChatGPT-like feature for physicians next week, CBS MarketWatch reported May 8.

The health system will follow UC San Diego Health and Madison, Wis.-based UW Health, which started piloting the technology in April. The Microsoft generative artificial intelligence platform from OpenAI is integrated into Epic's MyChart patient portal, where it drafts messages for clinicians.

"Care teams don't have the capacity to address the volume of patient messages they receive in a timely way," Patricia Garcia, MD, associate chief medical information officer for ambulatory care at Stanford Health Care, told the news outlet. "Maybe large language models could be the tool that changes the 'In Basket' from burden to opportunity."

The health systems hope the HIPAA-compliant tool will reduce administrative work for physicians while improving patient engagement and satisfaction. Dr. Garcia told the news outlet they are approaching it with "a really careful and conservative eye," as ChatGPT has been known to "hallucinate" or make up responses.
Mark Combs, Chief Technology Officer at Vandalia Health, joins the podcast to discuss the merging of Mon Health and Charleston Area Medical Center Health to create Vandalia Health, the importance of telehealth in rural areas such as West Virginia, how he is looking at adding value to his organization, and more.

Want to network with peers and hear more conversations like this? Apply to be one of our complimentary guest reviewers at our upcoming HIT + Digital Health + RCM Meeting Oct, 3-6 2023 here.
A music manager in Belfast has warned of the pitfalls due to the rising trend of artificial intelligence in the industry.
Fans in attendance at the Eurovision welcome party in Liverpool have spoken of experiencing horrendous issues with crowd control, which left many crying, fainting or unable to even move their arms.

The National Lotterys Big Eurovision Welcome was held at St Georges Plateau on Sunday, with performances from Frankie Goes To Hollywood, the Lightning Seeds and Atomic Kitten expected to be defining moments of the show.

However, many in attendance have spoken of the serious crowd control issues, which have resulted in many crying and leaving the event or even vowing to not attend any further Eurovision events this week.

At first it was a good nice atmosphere, but all of a sudden the feeling began to change, 18-year-old Jess Swift from Liverpool told the PA news agency.

Eurovision welcome party crowds (Jess Swift/PA)

There was a child no older then 10 next to me who was in tears as he was just getting pushed against this barrier.

When it began to get busy, me and several people around asked security to help with crowd control on getting people to either side but nothing happened.

Some had an argumentative attitude and didnt want to help.

She added that the production team was more helpful and did a better job than security, and that many fainted while at the event.

The regular concert-goer said that while she is used to crowds, the situation at the event was horrendous.

I am used to crowds and the usual closeness and pushing but this was horrendous and nothing like Ive ever seen before.

The organisers are so lucky the crowd helped each other out, otherwise that wouldve turned very badly.

Morgan, 24, who lives near Chester and attended with three other people, told PA that the spectacular displays and great acts were sadly overshadowed by the lack of crowd control and organisation.

People were being told mixed messages, they were trying to push through past us to get to the other side, which we were told was blocked off and then they would come back.

There was virtually no space to breathe.

I saw girls crying and leaving. People were stressed and irritated. At one point we were shouting to get the attention of stewards (or) staff at the back, near the barriers, to get their attention, saying we need more space.

I felt the whole thing was chaotic.

Some attendees at the Eurovision welcome event were said to have been in tears due to issues with crowd control (Peter Byrne/PA)   Peter Byrne

She said that it was only in the last half an hour that attendees had a bit more breathing space, which was a huge relief.

Courtney Neary added that it got really crowded at about 7pm, with the 24-year-old who lives in Liverpool pre-emptively asking security to get people in to help with the crowds before problems escalated.

We got told, well sort it out in a minute theres not much we can do from here, but we are looking at the situation', she told PA.

Maybe about 15 minutes passed, and it got worse and worse to the point where I physically couldnt move, I couldnt lift my arms up.

I must have seen at least 20 people get pulled out around where we were.

She added that she had plans to go to more Eurovision events around the city centre, but has since changed her mind.

Ive said to my family now I wont be going to any of them. I couldnt trust the security.

Liverpool is hosting Eurovision instead of a city in Ukraine (Peter Byrne/PA)   Peter Byrne

Claire McColgan, director of Culture Liverpool, issued a statement following the incident.

She said: Event safety experts confirmed that at no point was anyone in danger, there were no serious medical incidents and we were comfortably within the available capacity.

Before the event began, people were keen to gather in front of the stage and this caused a small number to feel uncomfortable.

These individuals were helped out of that situation and the team then ensured this area remained safe and comfortable for those in it once the show started  which went off without any issues.

A Liverpool City Council spokesperson told PA that there was no overcrowding onsite and we were actually under capacity.
Mark Owen, Howard Donald and Gary Barlow from Take That on stage at the Coronation Concert (PA)   Leon Neal

The Coronation Concert on Sunday night was watched by an average audience of 10.1 million, according to overnight figures from the BBC.

The star-studded event at Windsor Castle, which saw performances from Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That, had a peak viewership of 12.3 million, the broadcaster said.

Kate Phillips, BBC Director of Unscripted, said: Last nights Coronation Concert was an unforgettable evening of spectacular performances that brought us all together in celebration.

The Prince of Wales speaking during the concert (PA)   Yui Mok

Against the stunning backdrop of Windsor Castle, the concert reflected many of the Kings passions and highlighted the outstanding talent we have in the UK and beyond.

Quoting a hit from the concerts closing act, Take That, she added: We hope that viewers never forget it!.

Host Hugh Bonneville kicked off the celebrations and met Muppet star Miss Piggy, before the Prince of Wales took to the stage paying a touching tribute to his father and his late grandmother the Queen.

Hugh Bonneville was MC for the night (Leon Neal/PA)   Leon Neal

Stars including Hugh Jackman, Pierce Brosnan, Dame Joan Collins, Bear Grylls OBE, Alan Titchmarsh, and Sir Tom Jones gave pre-recorded video messages in honour of the King throughout the concert.

Top Gun star Tom Cruise also delivered a video message from his War Bird plane, saying: Pilot to pilot. Your Majesty, you can be my wingman any time, before saluting and banking away.

Musical collaborations included opera stars Andrea Bocelli and Sir Bryn Terfel, who sang Youll Never Walk Alone, and classical pianist Lang Lang and pop star Nicole Scherzinger, who performed Reflection from Mulan.

Sir Bryn Terfel and Andrea Bocelli performing a duet (Chris Jackson/PA)   Chris Jackson

More reflective moments included Stella McCartneys address about the environment and a Winnie the Pooh skit which did not seem to elicit as much of a response as Paddington Bears appearance with Queen Elizabeth II during the late monarchs Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The Platinum Jubilee concert, which took place in front of Buckingham Palace last June, was watched by an average of 13.1 million people on BBC One.

In addition, the Kings coronation service at Westminster Abbey on Saturday was watched by more than 18 million viewers in the UK, provisional figures showed.

King Charles III seated in St Edwards Chair, also known as the Coronation Chair, and holding The Sovereigns Orb during his coronation ceremony in Westminster Abbey (PA)   Aaron Chown

The ceremony was broadcast simultaneously on a range of channels between about 11am and 1pm, including BBC One and Two, ITV and Sky News.

An average of 18.8 million people watched across 11 channels and services, with audience figures peaking at 20.4 million when the King was crowned just after midday, according to overnight ratings released by the research organisation Barb.

The figure is not quite as high as the ratings for the funeral service of the late Queen last September which was seen by 26.5 million people across more than 50 TV channels.
Several winners including Jennifer Coolidge, Pedro Pascal and Joseph Quinn paid tribute to striking Hollywood writers during a muted, pre-recorded ceremony at the 2023 MTV Movie and TV Awards.

This years live event, which honours fan favourites on the big and small screens, was cancelled at the last minute amid the major industry strike.

Show bosses said they were pivoting away from a live show as they carefully navigate how best to deliver the fan first awards show we envisioned.

The writers strike  the first in 15 years  began last week after 11,500 members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) stopped working when their contract expired.

The union is seeking higher minimum pay, more writers per show and less exclusivity on single projects, among other demands  all conditions it says have been diminished during the content boom of the streaming era.

The WGA said it had planned to picket the event on Sunday in Santa Monica, California, before the live show and red carpet event were scrapped.

Stars including Coolidge, Pascal and Quinn all voiced their support for those fighting for better working conditions in pre-recorded acceptance speeches during the show.

White Lotus star Coolidge said she stood side by side with those on strike as she accepted the comedic genius award, saying they were fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

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You know, almost all great comedy starts with great writers, she said.

As a proud member of SAG (Screen Actors Guild), I stand here before you tonight, side by side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA (Writers Guild of America), that are fighting right now, fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

Pascal also acknowledged those fighting very hard for fair wages, as zombie-drama The Last Of Us, written by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, won best show.

The Mandalorian actor also won best hero and best duo, along with British co-star Bella Ramsey.

Craig and Neil cant be here, Pascal said, as he cradled three golden popcorn trophies.

We are all  standing in solidarity with the WGA that is fighting very hard for fair wages. We thank you, we love you.

Quinn also paid tribute to striking writers as he accepted the award for breakthrough performance.

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The British actor was recognised for his role as Eddie Munson in the Netflix hit series Stranger Things.

I dont think that people would connect with a character like Eddie or others in the Stranger Things universe without compassionate, intelligent, quality writing, he said.

Being a writer is a hard job. It deserves respect.

If we respect each other, we can cultivate a kinder, more inclusive, more collaborative environment for everyone thatd be nice.

Elsewhere, the shows top prize  best movie  went to slasher movie Scream VI.

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Tom Cruise was awarded best performance in a movie for his high-octane sequel Top Gun: Maverick, sending a message to fans from the cockpit of a plane.

This years winners all accepted their awards via video messages with flashback clips of moments and performances from previous ceremonies played in lieu of live segments.

US actress Drew Barrymore had been scheduled to host the show, but pulled out in solidarity with those on strike  although she said she would return to the event in 2024.

Despite stepping down from hosting duties, Barrymore appeared in several pre-recorded sketches that parodied movies including Cocaine Bear and Barbie.

The Charlies Angels actress was also named the winner of the best host award for The Drew Barrymore Show.
China's top procuratorate to supervise investigation into fatal hospital fire

Xinhua) 13:25, May 08, 2023

BEIJING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China's Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) will supervise the investigation into the Beijing Changfeng Hospital fire, according to an official statement released by the country's top procuratorate on Saturday.

The fire broke out on April 18 at the hospital in Beijing's Fengtai District, killing 29 people, 26 of whom were patients. The police launched an investigation into the fire on the same day.

A preliminary investigation showed the fire was caused by sparks from a construction project that ignited volatiles produced by combustible paint. A total of 15 people have been placed in criminal detention.

The SPP has urged the procuratorial agencies in Beijing to perform their duties fully and work in coordination with public security organs and other government departments to determine the liabilities of all parties involved, ensure the evidence is solid, punish any crimes identified in accordance with the law, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of the victims.

It has also called for improved efforts to eliminate workplace safety risks, noting that the hospital fire had revealed the laxity of investigations into potential workplace safety hazards.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
On the 335th anniversary of the Glorious Revolution -- the historical significance of the English Civil War (Part Two) By Mark Wegierski

web posted May 8, 2023 In the state and society which has been created by the American Revolution and its ongoing aftermath, an extreme narrowing of historical perspective has been continually occurring. As far as even the most historically conscious Americans are concerned, their social and political universe, and all the terms of their politics, begin in the 1770s. However, most Americans' span of meaningful historical memory, and nearly all their political referents, in fact go only as far back as the latest revolutionary upheaval in their society, which is the 1960s. Everything before that is virtually treated as elemental darkness, defended only by so-called reactionaries, "the left-over progressives of the preceding generation". It could be argued that the real outcome of the American Revolution, despite the apparent and totemic fixity of its constitutional arrangements, was the creation of a state and society characterized by the condition of almost permanent revolution and flux across its more than two centuries of history. There seems to be no period in American history that could be characterized as stable, instead, one irruption after another -- political, social, economic, and technological -- has engulfed the society. The monumental American Civil War/War Between the States of 1861-1865 affords a paradigmatic example of the fundamental intolerance in America of anything which deviates from its founding principles of pristine philosophical liberalism and economic capitalism, the former providing the ideological rationale, the latter probably the real reason for the decisive prosecution of the war. Although the Founding Fathers would have liked to believe so, America was, despite its proclamation as a Novus Ordo Seclorum, not entirely without a historical tradition. The locus of that tradition was the new English state, particularly as it emerged after the short but extremely critical period of Cromwell's ascendancy. The historical outcome of the English Civil War can thus be seen as a fundamental pivot or branch-point for the emergence of America in the New World. The idea that Cromwell's Puritans are in some sense the essential progenitors of America could serve an explanatory function to many phenomena occurring throughout American history, as well as today, from major trends such as "political correctness" and televangelism, to ephemera such as Jonestown and David Koresh. The Puritan ascendancy itself was a culmination of a long series of social and civil conflicts in the British Isles, which had begun with Henry VIII's break with Rome, the sacking of the monasteries, and the coming of the Protestant Reformation to England. There had emerged by the time of the outbreak of the English Civil War a number of fundamental divisions in the societies of the British Isles, which can be characterized as follows. Religious Divisions: The extremes of opposition were the Roman Catholics versus Calvinist groups such as the Puritans. The Roman Catholics were pejoratively called "Papists", and the often highly exaggerated fear of, and contempt for, "Popery", or "the Romish Church", typified by the bogeyman of "the Spanish Inquisition" and "the Jesuits", became an increasingly strong element in the new English society. Some of the initial impetus for these sentiments had been given by the Roman Catholic Queen Mary's short reign as "Bloody Mary", and the threat from Spain under Philip II (the Spanish Armada) during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The Anglo-Catholic or High Anglican (High Church) tradition lay between these two extremes, but tended towards Catholic ritual, while recognizing the distinctiveness of the Church of England, and considering the Pope as merely the Bishop of Rome, with no special authority in England. By contrast, the radical Protestants saw the Papacy as the embodiment of Antichrist. The Anglicans, in fact, did not at this time characterize themselves as "Protestant", but rather as a third group between Roman Catholics and the radical Protestants themselves. The offices of Bishop and Archbishop, as well as the notion of the Apostolic Succession (i.e., that the ultimate legitimacy of the Church lay in the transfer across millennia, beginning with the Apostles, of the priestly authority) were recognized in Anglicanism as in Roman Catholicism. The Low Anglican tradition (Low Church or Broad Church), which emerged in greater strength later, identified itself with more Protestant, anti-Catholic and anti-aristocratic English tendencies. The equivalent of the Anglicans in Scotland was the Scottish Episcopal Church, which claimed to be the real Church of Scotland -- not the Calvinist Presbyterian Church which eclipsed it while using the same name. There was also a substantial English Presbyterian group. They formed one of the larger factions in the Puritan-dominated Parliament, before Cromwell's full ascendancy. "Puritans", from the Latin puritani, meaning "the pure ones", is a general term for various Calvinist, radical Protestant groups of the period. The Puritans were known for their moral earnestness, their disdain for worldly pleasures, and their ascetic industriousness. The constant reading of the Bible to the members of the congregation, and the exhortation to every person in the congregation to read and study the Bible on their own to confirm their faith -- without the mediation of an organized priesthood -- was one of their most pronounced religious characteristics. Puritanism stressed the sincere profession of one's faith, reinforced through constant reading of the Bible, and condemned Catholic and Anglican ritual, churchly splendor, and a hierarchical priesthood set apart from the congregation. The obsessive reading of the Bible, particularly certain parts of the Old Testament, and the Book of Revelation, reinforced their sense of their own righteousness, and encouraged the emergence of all manner of then-radical ideas about the nature of social relations, as well as of various apocalyptic fervors, which sought to impose the Kingdom of God on Earth, by force if necessary. The Puritans were also obsessively concerned with every minute aspect of a person's daily behavior, and were able to apperceive "paganism" virtually everywhere in society, and to construe almost any monarch as an "Oriental despot". James I, for example, was characterized as a "British Nebuchadnezzar", a Babylonian tyrant. A later manifestation of this attitude was the common Protestant suspicion that George III, who dealt rather severely with Roman Catholics, had in fact secretly converted to Rome. Another good example is the American Revolutionary ditty, referring to Quebec: "if Gallic Papists have the right, to worship their own way/then what hope for the freedoms, of poor Americay." By a curious twist of reasoning, extending tolerance to Catholics was seen as advancing oppression in England (or America). Roman Catholicism was also generally seen as decadent and lackadaisical in its moral approach. The first major known and popular work of semipornography in England was Confessions of a Nun. The prurient uncovering of supposed Catholic moral turpitude was a constantly reappearing theme in Protestant polemics and criticism. As late as the end of the nineteenth century, Protestants in America were referring pejoratively to "Rum, Romanism, and Rebellion". Puritanism was also intensely masculine-centered, rejecting the special place of the Virgin Mary in Catholicism, and also radically monotheistic, considering the Catholic "veneration of the saints" as gross idolatry. The profound difference in the two religious styles is typified in the contrast between the Protestant Barnkirche (literally, "barn-church") and the sumptuous Baroque cathedral. The more radical Puritans were opposed to all graven images, which tended to lead to mass outbreaks of iconoclasm (the defacing or smashing of statuary in Catholic or Anglican churches). The English countryside contains many picturesque ruins of such churches (viscerally considered "heathen temples") sacked by Cromwell's soldiery. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
Two Co Antrim men have appeared in court accused of possessing a military-style' assault weapon and 50,000 worth of cocaine.

Andrew Morrow (44), of North Road, Carrickfergus and Gerald Verner (33), of Fairview Terrace, Newtownabbey, appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court via video-link from police custody.

Both are charged with possessing a M4 carbine rifle and a quantity of 5.56mm rounds of ammunition in suspicious circumstances, having the weapon without the permission of the Secretary of State and possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply.

Verner is further charged with possessing Class B drugs with intent to supply, possessing Class C drugs and having criminal property, namely 4325 in cash.

A PSNI detective constable said she could connect both defendants to the charges.

She told District Judge George Connor that police on patrol on Friday May 5, observed Verner jumping over a 7ft front fence at Morrow's North Road home and getting into his car.

He was stopped and searched and a small quantity of cannabis edibles was found in his bag.

In the North Road property there was a M4 carbine, a quantity of ammunition and a large quantity of Class A cocaine with an estimated street value of 50,000, said the detective.

These items were found in a bedroom that didn't look occupied. The weapon has yet to be tested to see if it is a weapon before we can do any forensic analysis on it and that has been expedited.

But enquiries to date lead us to believe that this is a fully functioning rifle which is quite significant.

Mr Morrow lives at the property and he didn't come back to it until 10pm that night.

Verner's defence solicitor Mark Austin said he was objecting to his client being connected to the North Road charges as he is not seen exiting the property or the four walls of the building. A male was observed jumping over a fence. There is no connection to these charges. There is no forensics and no DNA evidence.

The detective added that Verner was seen leaving the confines of the property, the back door was open, and he had access to the four walls.

She told the court that Verner declined to answer questions about his presence at North Road.

In relation to the 4,320 in cash found at his home, he stated that it was a loan from his cousin to get a private apartment but refused to give the name of his cousin.

A Public Prosecution Service lawyer said: Mr Verner is a known associate of Mr Morrow. He is seen leaping out of the North Road property and it is a reasonable proposition to say that he was in the house.

In that house of a known associate of his, a weapon, ammunition and a significant amount of drugs were found. At his (Verner's) home there were no weapons but there were drugs and a significant amount of money.

He told police at the scene that you won't find my prints on the weapon, ammunition and drugs. We say there is a significant amount of circumstantial evidence to connect him to the 'North Road charges.

District Judge Connor said that although the defence had raised triable issues about the charges, there is just enough in the round to take it over the threshold of connection.

While Morrow did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody, police objected to Verner being released on bail claiming he was likely to commit further offences, would not abide by bail conditions and was a flight risk.

Citing his criminal record, the detective constable said Verner had convictions for assault occasioning actual bodily harm, rape and threats to kill.

He is currently on court bail for quite a serious assault in October 2022. He has breached that bail on several occasions, said the officer.

He has a propensity for violent behaviour. The discovery of this firearm would lead police to believe that this defendant is prepared to go to extreme lengths to cause violence which could result in in the loss of life.

She added the 50,000 cocaine haul would lead police to believe that he is involved in a substantial organised drug supply network involving the possession and moving of wholesale quantities of Class A and Class B drugs to unknown entities.

District Judge Connor said that as there were triable issues, he was agreeing to release Verner on his own bail of 500 along with two sureties totalling 1,500 along with strict conditions.

He is to reside with his partner in Carrickfergus, abide by an 8pm to 8am curfew, would be electronically tagged and must report daily to police.

Unemployed Verner is not to enter the North Road property or loiter within 500 metres of the house.

He is to surrender all travel documents, banned from applying for a new passport, is not to leave Northern Ireland and is allowed only to use public transport.

He was also ordered to surrender his mobile phone and give pin code access when requested by police.

The judge told Verner: You are very fortunate and very lucky to get bail today.

If you break these terms there is a very high risk you will be remanded into custody until the case is sorted and I suspect this case will be a very long time in the investigation.

The case will be mentioned again on June 5.
Frustration for schools as 800m schemes stalled

Money would have been used for new builds and refurbishments

St Pius X High School, Magherafelt

Mark Bain Mon 8 May 2023 at 09:00
Themed baked goods complete with the King's face on display in Carnmoney

The packed grounds of Carnmoney Church as Newtownabbey residents continue to enjoy the celebrations

Parts of Willowfield Road into the Woodstock Road which were closed to accommodate the street party

A group of women enjoying the live performances in east Belfast as coronation celebrations continued into the bank holiday

A bag piper takes to the stage in east Belfast as part of performances lined up for the Bank Holiday party

The coronation celebrations continued in east Belfast with 'The King's Coronation Festival' organised by the East End Great War Society

The coronation celebrations continued in east Belfast with 'The King's Coronation Festival' organised by the East End Great War Society

A yellow weather warning in Northern Ireland wasnt enough to stop the coronation parties going  as royal fans in Belfast and beyond continued to celebrate the recent crowning of King Charles in style.

Hundreds of people descended on areas of Newtownabbey and east Belfast to honour the King  taking advantage of the long weekend to mark the historic royal event.

The streets were a wash of red white and blue as decorations, buntings and colourful accessories added to the atmosphere of the day.

The Kings Coronation Festival closed off parts of the Woodstock and Willowfield Road in east Belfast, a street party that head organiser Stephen Gough said had been months in the making.

It took a lot of time and a lot of effort, said Mr Gough, who is part of the East Belfast Historical and Cultural Society.

We set up a committee, filled with volunteers. What you see today is a testament to the hard work of every single person involved which we started months and months ago.

I honestly cant even remember exactly when we started the planning, but we have been meeting weekly in the run-up to it to get it organised. Everyone put their shoulder to the wheel to make this happen.

The festival, organised by the East End Great War Society, featured live performances from bagpipers and lambeg drummers, and included various fairground-type attractions, including a tea-cup carousel and swing-style amusement.

A bag piper takes to the stage in east Belfast as part of performances lined up for the Bank Holiday party

One of the most popular attractions was the Coronation Express, a makeshift train that took children and their parents around the surrounding streets, complete with bunting and flags.

A strictly family-style event where no alcohol was permitted, the mini-street festival also featured tuck-shops and arcade games, alongside food and drink vans.

Weve got the guys with the lambeg drums who will be walking through it all later; they like to walk while performing, as you can imagine, so it will be a good show for everyone added Mr Gough.

A group of pensioner women, who didnt wish to be named, said they were thrilled with the day's events as they sat close to the stage enjoying a bagpipe performance.

A group of women enjoying the live performances in east Belfast as coronation celebrations continued into the bank holiday

Its been lovely; its great for everyone to get involved, one woman said, while another said they attended because they enjoyed watching the coronation so much they wanted to continue to celebrate the new King.

Were having a great day; the ceremony yesterday was just gorgeous. This is all fantastic; were just hoping the rain isnt coming for us, another woman said.

Holly McCallister, who was working at the tuck shop alongside her two children, Jorja and Libby, with friend Ruby, said the turnout was brilliant for the area.

Weve really enjoyed it all; we all watched the coronation yesterday, so its great to do this today. Its good its on all day; we just hope its going to stay dry for us.

Holly McCallister alongside children Libby, Jorja and friend Ruby at the King's Coronation Festival

Donna, who brought along her grandchildren and dog, said the East Belfast party was just fantastic.

This is the first time Ive seen anything like this up here for the kids; its fantastic. Ive really enjoyed it all; its good for this to happen today because everything is so quiet on a Bank Holiday.

Just outside Belfast, the Carnmoney Community Committee were also not letting fears of a potential thunderstorm and downpour get in their way of their celebrations.

So much was happening over the weekend in Newtownabbey; we thought because coronation day was Saturday and no one would go out, we would just go ahead with Monday to celebrate, said the groups chairperson Thelma Jamison.

The group held the Carnmoney Coronation Party in the grounds of Carnmoney Church. Featuring bake sales, craft tables, a live band, and even a petting zoo complete with birds of prey, the event saw hundreds of people pile into a car park.

The packed grounds of Carnmoney Church as Newtownabbey residents continue to enjoy the celebrations

We have 950 people registered to attend today, and we're hoping people will just continue to drift in and out, because we have so much here for the kids and the adults, continued Thelma.

The event also gave the residents of Newtownabbey a chance to don royal guard-style coats and pose with His Majesty himself  albeit a life-size cardboard cut-out situated right at the church door.

A cardboard cut out of King Charles greeted guests at Carnmoney Community Committee's coronation bash

We wouldn't miss it, said attendee Kate Elliot, who showed off her special King Charles-adorned cupcakes she brought along for the occasion.

We wanted to celebrate with everyone, our friends and the community. It's also nice for people who may not come into the church to come here as well, everyone can join together.

The committee has been running for just over two years, and the coronation marks just one of their recent royal events with celebrations also taking place to mark the late Queen Elizabeth's platinum jubilee.

Well, we had a party on Saturday, and a wee party yesterday, so we just decided to keep it going," said Carol McGeath, speaking amongst the crowds gathered to look at the special cakes baked for the occasion.

Themed baked goods complete with the King's face on display in Carnmoney

It's great for it to have three days, we haven't had a coronation for 70 odd years, so it's good to get out and celebrate, added Dorothy Andrews.

Meanwhile, diners at a local lunch club in Hertfordshire have said they felt really fortunate after a surprise visit by the Prime Minister as part of the Big Help Out.

Local residents, most of them elderly, were served lamb casserole and wine by very special guests Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, in the dining room of Mill End Community Centre in Rickmansworth.

The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) runs a lunch club at the centre from Monday to Friday, predominantly for people in the community who are removed from family networks.

Mr Sunak and Ms Murty chopped parsnips and strawberries in the kitchen wearing black aprons before joining the room in a toast which ended in the group saying long live the King and giving three cheers.

Across the country people have been encouraged to devote some free time on the Monday of the coronation bank holiday weekend for the Big Help Out, aimed at showcasing volunteering.
Some tactical planning meant that nursing student Claire Thompson landed a seat right behind ITVs Ant and Dec for King Charless coronation.

More than 850 community and charity representatives were invited to attend the coronation on Saturday, and Thompson (29) was selected as a result of raising awareness of Makaton  a communication aid for people with learning disabilities  on social media under @makatonmondays.

Ms Thompson, from Belfast, was asked to arrive on Lambeth Bridge near Westminster Abbey at 7am before she and other community representatives were ushered into the Westminster Abbey.

They were shown the area they were allowed to sit in and could select their own seats. I was tactical about it. There was free seating, so I walked up as far as I could and when I saw Ant and Decs names I went and sat behind where they would be. I was most excited to meet them.

She struck up a conversation with the presenting duo when they arrived in their pew and joked that they should greet Boris Johnson with the phrase, Evening, Prime Minister when he entered the Abbey.

This references a swipe the presenters took at the then prime minister live on air after news of the Downing Street Christmas party during Covid lockdown emerged. They stared down the camera and said: Evening, Prime Minister... for now.

She also met Lionel Richie, who performed at the coronation concert in Windsor Castle last night.

The coronation didnt begin until nearly 11am so Ms Thompson and others had to wait some time in the Abbey before things kicked off.

It flew by, she said. They were playing music and you could see all the celebrities, like Emma Thompson arriving. The people sitting beside me were lovely, so I chatted to them.

During the coronation, the woman next to me pinched me and said, Its really happening. It was so surreal to see him being crowned and watching him walk by afterwards to see that bit of history.

Phones had to be switched off for the ceremony but when Ms Thompson turned it back on she was inundated with messages from friends and family who had seen her on the televised coverage.

After all the world leaders and royals had left, we could all go. So I got a picture with Lionel Ritchie and Ant and Dec. We were given ponchos on the way out so I could keep the programme of the coronation dry. I dont think it will fully hit me for a few weeks.

Thousands of people gathered in London for the coronation. At the same time many held pro-republic protests in cities such as Cardiff and Edinburgh.

A crowd of anti-monarchy protesters also gathered in Londons Trafalgar Square, where the ceremony was relayed over loudspeakers. Whenever Charless name was mentioned, demonstrators chanted not my king. They also chanted stick the monarchy up your ar** and down with the crown.

The police faced much criticism following the arrest of the CEO of anti-monarchy group Republic, Graham Smith. Louise Carter, from London, had brought her son and said no one cares about the monarchy, apart from hardcore royalists. It is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous, she said.

Many of those who attended the protest described the monarchy as anti-democratic.
Shoppers fled a shopping mall on the outskirts of south Belfast today after a car went up in flames in an underground car park.

Emergency services attended the scene of the incident at Forestside Shopping Centre, Belfast.

It is understood that firefighters were scrambled to the scene of the car fire in an underground car park at the premises shortly after 4pm.

There was some traffic disruption while the area was evacuated and the NI Fire and Rescue Service worked to extinguish the blaze. Motorists were advised to expect delays.

Posting on social media, one witness described the scene as total chaos.

They said fire alarms in the centre went off and shoppers were told over a Tannoy system to evacuate the premises.

On Twitter, Tommy McNulty posted: We were downstairs in the underground and you could barely see anything the smoke was so thick. Loads of cars still trying to get in regardless.

SDLP councillor John Gallen advised those in the vicinity to avoid the area.

No injuries were reported and the incident was dealt with by around 5.30pm.

Just last week, Forestside was put up for sale, for offers in the region of 34.25m.
The funeral of a man who died during a desperate attempt to save the life of a young woman in the River Lagan is taking place in Co Armagh.

Patrick Fearon (30), passed away on Friday after entering the Belfast river to ensure the woman had latched on to a life-ring he had thrown into the water just moments beforehand.

His actions ultimately saved the womans life, but tragically Mr Fearon did not make it out of the water alive.

He was removed from the water at around 2.30am, and despite paramedics working frantically to save his life, was pronounced dead at 4am that morning.

Patricks mother Linda said the details of the incident were testament to his selfless nature.

Everyone loved him; every member of his whole family loved him, she said. Nobody ever had a bad word to say about him. Im not just saying that because Im his mother, Im saying that because its true, she told Armagh i.

Patrick being Patrick, he threw the life ring into the water and I think he went in after that to make sure she got it. She got out okay in the end  he didnt.

He couldnt swim that well, certainly not well enough to be in a fast flowing river, but he didnt even think about that, he was just concerned about making sure the girl got the life ring.

Mr Fearons mother said he had also saved the life of his sister during a house fire when he was just a teenager.

When he was 14 my house went on fire and he ran in to get her and his pet cat out, said Linda.

Thats the sort of person he was, he always put other people before himself, thats just who he was.

Mr Fearon had recently returned from living in Glasgow, and had recently landed his dream job as a data analyst in the NHS. He was also a fan of Manchester United and a dedicated follower of Armagh GAA.

His mother said he had been planning to attend next weekends Ulster SFC final against Derry at Clones.

He was planning on coming down to Armagh next weekend to watch the Ulster final, she said.

He was a big Armagh fan. He was also a big Manchester United fan  hes being buried in his Manchester United top and scarf. He had friends all over, not just here.

He had friends in England and Scotland and he even has a friend flying from Canada to attend his funeral.

I know Im his mum but he was loved by everyone. He never ever did anyone any harm in his life. He never gave me a moments worry in my life. I always say he was a joy to have as a son. No mother should bury their son.

Burial is taking place after 11am requiem mass at St Patricks Cathedral in Armagh.
Her daughter, Caron Keating, died in 2004.

Gloria Hunniford has said she resented Australia for taking her daughter away in a wide-ranging article written for the Times.

Her daughter, Caron Keating, died of breast cancer in 2004.

Mrs Hunniford said: When my daughter, Caron, was diagnosed with breast cancer, she discovered some complementary treatments in Australia and decided to move out there to pursue them.

She ended up staying for three years, and Irish mothers never want their children to be further than round the corner, so her being so far away at such a difficult time caused me great heartache, she added.

Mrs Hunniford said she had travelled to Australia nine times to visit her daughter.

Initially I had been resentful that Australia had taken Caron away, but when I saw the freedom it had given her and remembered some of the happy moments before she eventually returned to our home in Kent for her final days, said Mrs Hunniford.

I realised what a beautiful country it is, she added.

Veteran TV presenter Hunniford, (83) is from Portadown. She also spoke of her childhood there and how she used to love family holidays in Newcastle.

She said: The caravan we used to stay in was absolutely tiny; one of those where you had to pack away the bed to get the table out to have your breakfast on, but I thought it was amazing.

I adored the Percy French Inn at the foot of the nearby Mourne Mountains and my favourite visit was the year we stayed in a B&B right opposite the sea, so I could literally finish my food, slip under the table and be on the beach in seconds.

She spoke of how she emigrated to Canada to live with her great uncle aged just 17, and how it broadened her horizons.

She said: Back home Catholics and Protestants lived at opposite ends of the town and all the schools and churches were separated, but in Kingston, in Ontario, no one asked me my religion.

I realised that everybody could live harmoniously so my horizons broadened, and it changed my perspective on life for ever, she continued.

She also talked about filming BBC1 show B&B by the sea on the Antrim coast.

She said It was also a pleasure to return to Northern Ireland recently to explore the Antrim coast road for the B&B by the Sea show.

Its easy to become blase about the place you grew up in, but spending time there reminded me that  when its not raining at least  its a coastline to match any in the world.
CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

A 31-year-old man has been charged with false imprisonment after a hostage situation in a Belfast hotel on Sunday.

The incident occurred in the Clayton Hotel on Ormeau Avenue shortly after 6pm on Sunday.

The victim of the hostage situation was released unharmed.

PSNI dog units and specialist firearms police officers carrying shields and assault rifles swooped on the hotel moments after the incident began.

It was reported that a shirtless man with a gun had entered the hotel and was screaming at staff and guests.

A male has now been charged with carrying an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, common assault, criminal damage, and false imprisonment.

He is expected to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.
The Oscar-winning team from An Irish Goodbye picked up yet another award.

Siobhan McSweeney arrives on the red carpet ahead of the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire   PA

Lisa McGee with her award at the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire   PA

Tom Berkeley, Seamus O'Hara, James Martin and Ross White, An Irish Goodbye, arrive on the red carpet ahead the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire   PA

The cream of Northern Irelands on-screen talent has been celebrating yet again after picking up a number of awards at the Irish Film and Television Academy Awards (IFTAs) in Dublin.

The 20th annual awards were held on Sunday evening at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre, with local talent adding to their already impressive haul.

The Oscar-winning team from An Irish Goodbye picked up an IFTA and, as they took to the podium, Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee yelped excitedly as she was having her photo taken, after winning her own gong.

Im just so delighted they won, she said. Ms McGee said she felt so lucky to be a writer from Derry and to have had the opportunity to put her story on screen.

Lisa McGee with her award at the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire   PA

The Banshees of Inisherin was nominated alongside An Irish Goodbye for an Oscar, and star Brendan Gleeson picked up his own IFTA award for best supporting actor.

He said the Irish needed to keep reaching, as he accepted his award.

He earlier said he had been looking forward to a reunion with Colin Farrell and Barry Keoghan, as the Banshees team, who have been doing the award season rounds.

However, the two co-stars could not make the IFTAs and Gleeson was left to champion the film. He said there was so much talent in Ireland but added that nothing could be taken for granted and hard work had to continue to keep focus on the stories coming out of Ireland.

Holding the gong afterwards, Mr Gleeson said: "Its not that its Irish, its good, as he explained the story has emotion at its core.

Siobhan McSweeney arrives on the red carpet ahead of the 20th Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA) Awards. Pic: Damien Eagers/PA Wire   PA

Derry Girls actor Siobhan McSweeney was nominated for lead actress for Graham Nortons comedy drama, for her role in Holding.

She was also ready to make a political comment on the red carpet one day after King Charles coronation.

I dont believe in monarchy. Ive been living in Britain on and off for 20 years, she said.

I have a great life there, but its definitely a place that confuses me. The monarchy is the main thing that confuses me. People dont realise they are subjects.

I believe in my friends who are British and the fact they are wonderful, kind, smart and not silly.
Protesters arrested before the coronation have threatened to take legal action against the police (Aaron Chown/PA)   Aaron Chown

Anti-monarchy campaigners arrested ahead of the Kings coronation are considering legal action against the Metropolitan Police after being told no charges will be brought against them.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith also called on Monday for a full inquiry into who authorised the arrests during the disgraceful episode.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed the Met over the dozens of arrests of protesters amid concerns they were cracking down on dissent on Saturday at the behest of politicians.

The force made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

But Mr Smith said the eight protesters from Republic detained in London have all been told no charges will be brought against them.

He told the PA news agency: The speed with which they did this demonstrates they were very quickly aware they had made a very serious error of judgment and there will be action taken again.

Im obviously relieved they dropped it so quickly but very angry they even went down this road, robbing people of their liberty for absolutely no reason.

There was no evidence of any ability or intent to commit any offence and they simply decided to arrest us and that is outrageous.

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Scotland Yard has been asked about the result of the Republic arrests.

Earlier in the day, Mr Sunak defended Scotland Yards operation and denied officers were acting under pressure from ministers.

The police are operationally independent of Government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best, he told broadcasters during a visit to Hertfordshire.

Actually, Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely, that was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

Crowds line The Mall after the coronation ceremony of the King and Queen Camilla in central London (Gareth Fuller/PA)   Gareth Fuller

But Mr Smith accused Scotland Yard of having every intention of arresting demonstrators and of having lied in discussions ahead of the planned protests.

The campaigner said he was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause a public nuisance unloading placards in St Martins Lane, Westminster.

He said police initially accused him of being equipped to lock-on to an object or building, which the new Public Order Act made a jailable offence.

Mr Smith denies this was his intention and believes the Met had used some straps they were carrying as a pretext to prevent their protest.

He raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest, including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and its my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

I understand the Labour Party said they wouldnt repeal this law, which is pretty disgraceful if true, this law needs to be repealed.

Labour frontbencher Andrew Gwynne said the Act gave disproportionate powers to the police but the party was not committing the party to repealing it if it enters government.

Instead, the shadow public health minister told Sky News: I think the next Labour government will look very carefully at this legislation.

Mr Gwynne defended the right to protest and suggested revellers supporting the coronation should have drowned out the dissent.

That wouldve been the appropriate approach, to drown out those that wanted to protest rather than maybe heavy-handed practice that some have suggested may have taken place, he said.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.

Westminster City Council has raised concerns that womens safety volunteers were among those arrested after rape alarms were seized.

The Met said it had received intelligence that people were planning to use the devices to disrupt the procession.

Caroline Russell said the London Assemblys Police and Crime Committee that she chairs will be questioning the Met over the worrying arrests.

The Green politician told Today: It felt like for someone who was trying to protest, and trying to do it by the book, it was very difficult to understand what the rules were.

It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because theyd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms.

It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Mets safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

In total the Met made 64 arrests during the coronation day.

Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drugs possession.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has demanded clarity from the forces leaders on the arrests.
Behind the scenes of J. Neil Schulman's Lady Magdalene's By Thomas M. Sipos

web posted May 8, 2023 As with Brad Linaweaver, I first met J. Neil Schulman in the early 1990s at Los Angele's libertarian Karl Hess Club. I previously wrote about Schulman's indie film, Alongside Night (2014). But before that, there was Lady's Magdalene's (2008), Schulman's directorial debut. Shot during the summer of 2006 in Las Vegas and Pahrump, Nevada, Lady Magdalene's is the tale of a Homeland Security officer booted off the force by political correctness, who then stumbles onto an Al Queda plot, partially set in a legal brothel owned by Lady Magdalene, played by Nichelle Nichols. "I met her at a Star Trek convention in the 1970s, which I was covering for the National Star," Schulman had told me. "She was in one of the suites where a party was going on at night. She was lounging on one of the beds. I went up to her with my recorder and lay down on the bed next to her, and I interviewed her. She maintains to this day that she remembers me doing that, which I find astonishing. I was one out of several thousands of reporters that interviewed her. "I met her again a few years ago [i.e., a few years prior to 2006], regarding the script adaptation of my novel, Escape from Heaven. We began developing that together as executive producers. I decided that I could have only one madam for Lady Magdalene's, and that was Nichelle Nichols." When it came time to film, Schulman considered Pahrump (a small Las Vegas suburb made famous in the 1990s as Art Bell's home base), to be an ideal location. Its surrounding desert can pass for the Mideast and local businesses were easy to work with (e.g., the Front Sight training center). That Schulman owned a second home in Pahrump was also convenient. Like many low-budget filmmakers, Schulman engaged in guerrilla tactics. "Hoover Dam refused us permission to shoot there. We went there stealthily. One security guard saw our cameraman with the camera on his shoulder. The guard asked if we were shooting professionally. I said, 'No, just home movies.' Which was true. It was my camera. We did it before principal photography, so I had no contract with the corporation producing the movie. At that point, it was a home movie." As an inside joke, Schulman includes a scene where his character (yes, he cast himself in a role) waves at the camera while standing at the dam. "That was basically me acknowledging, you guys didn't get me." Lady Magdalene's was inspired by America's post-9/11 milieu, but also by a true story. "Back in the late 1980s, the Mustang Ranch went into federal tax receivership. Because it's a legal business, the federal court appointed a federal agent to be the tax receiver for the Mustang Ranch. I thought, that's the funniest fish-out-of-water idea I've ever heard. A federal agent given the job of managing a legal brothel in Nevada." Despite his film's heroic portrayal of federal agents, Schulman was poorly treated by the government. "We come along with a movie in which the feds are the good guys, and the Department of Homeland Security would not give us any cooperation. We went to the FBI building [in Nevada] to get some exteriors on a Sunday, when the place is closed. They sent out a security guard to try to arrest us." Schulman found most of his cast and crew, "referral to referral to referral. One person gives one person, that person gives you a third. Some actors I already knew. We listed the film with Breakdown Services. We did an open call in Pahrump. I hired one actor from Las Vegas, four from Pahrump, several from the East coast, lots out of Los Angeles, and one from Manchester in the UK." And there was me. Yes, I too have a small speaking role. When Schulman announced his film, I asked if I could have a part. He said, okay. No audition. Just like that. In Hollywood, it really is who you know. By 2007, Schulman was submitting to film festivals. Sundance and Cannes declined (yes, he actually dared to enter), but Lady Magdalene's did win for Best Cutting Edge Film at the 2008 San Diego Black Film Festival, the Audience Choice Award at the 2008 Cinema City International Film Festival at Universal Citywalk, and the Special Jury Prize for Libertarian Ideals at the 2011 FreedomFest's Anthem Film Festival in Las Vegas. Yet a theatrical distribution deal proved elusive, despite Schulman's constant reediting. On April 12, 2007, he test-screened his film for the NRA at the Culver City Denny's. "I'm a past president of this chapter. It's our first chance to show the film to non-industry people in a no pressure environment. I'll be looking at their comments for an idea of how to market the film." In 2011, Schulman uploaded Lady Magdalene's to YouTube, introduced by a brief infomercial from his new sponsor, Life Enhancement, a nutritional supplement company. "This is a new distribution model for independent films, where a sponsor's sales revenues are shared with the producer." The infomercial, produced by Schulman's Jesulu Productions, features actress Mara Marini from the film, interviewing Life Enhancement CEO Will Block. Schulman told me that Lady Magdalene's cost over a half million dollars. Like indie filmmakers before him, he raised money by mortgaging his house and tapping into his trust fund. Unfortunately, this was shortly before the housing crash. He lost his home in Culver City. His Pahrump home became his only home. Yet that did not deter him from shooting Alongside Night several years later. You can see Lady Magdalene's in its entirety and for free on YouTube. Schulman was a much celebrated libertarian sci-fi author and a generous friend. He died on August 10, 2019, 19 days before his longtime friend, Brad Linaweaver. Libertarian pulp fiction is poorer without them. Thomas M. Sipos writes satirical novels and film criticism. His website is CommunistVampires.com. Home
A UK minister is visiting Hong Kong for the first time since 2018 (Anthony Devlin/PA)   Anthony Devlin

Talks on renewing Britains business ties with Hong Kong will be held during the first visit to the city by a UK minister since Chinas crackdown on its civil rights.

The Government has condemned the national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British territory in 2020 after mass protests.

The move strained relations and led to the creation of a visa scheme allowing Hong Kongers to come to Britain.

But the UK Government has recently made clear that it wants to maintain engagement with China despite political differences.

Investment minister Lord Dominic Johnson will discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong government representatives.

He said he will also stress that the UK will call out the violation of their (Hong Kongers) freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

It comes after the highly controversial attendance of Chinas vice-president Han Zheng, who has been blamed for the curtailment of freedom in the former British territory, at the Kings coronation.

The decision to invite Mr Han was strongly criticised by China hawks on the Tory benches and Lord Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong.

The Foreign Secretary said he made plain the UKs position on Hong Kong when he met with the Chinese vice-president in London ahead of the royal event.

But James Cleverly argued that the UK must engage directly with China in a recent foreign policy speech, angering some Tory critics of China who want ministers to go further in distancing the UK from Beijing and to be more outspoken in criticising its leadership.

Chinas Han Zheng arrives for a reception at Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation (Jacob King/PA)   Jacob King

Ahead of his trip, Lord Dominic Johnson said: Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excel  from financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

The UKs ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed. For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively  and our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

The UK says China remains in breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, under which it has a duty to uphold Hong Kongs high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms.

Hong Kong was handed over from the UK to China in 1997 with a promise by Beijing to keep western-style liberties under a one country, two systems framework.
Boris Johnson confronted the King, essentially squaring up to him for branding the Rwanda asylum policy appalling, it has been alleged.

Guto Harri, who served as No 10s director of communications under the former prime minister, claimed Mr Johnson told him he went in quite hard on the then-prince.

Mr Johnson disputed his long-standing allys account as inaccurate, with a source saying he deplores any commentary on conversations with royals.

Charles and Mr Johnson discussed the Kings reported criticism of the scheme as they met in Rwandas capital of Kigali at a Commonwealth summit in June.

Former prime minister Boris Johnson departs following the coronation of the King (Phil Noble/PA)   Phil Noble

At the time, Mr Johnson described his discussion with Charles as a good old chinwag that covered a lot of ground.

Writing in the Daily Mail, Mr Harri says that the meeting was less amicable than suggested.

The former BBC journalist wrote: I went in quite hard, he told me at the time, essentially squaring up to the prince and confronting him about what he  as unelected royalty  had said about the actions of a democratically elected government.

Prince Charles was busted. He had obviously expressed some criticism, and though he tried to play it down, Boris pointed out the obvious, (saying): If you didnt say it we both know your people could ring the newspapers and kill the story. The fact they havent done that says it all.

Along with other former prime ministers, Mr Johnsons attended the Kings coronation at the weekend.

Mr Harri claimed Charles and Mr Johnson had struggled to get on for years after the politician was late for a meeting while London mayor, but that Rwanda was the final straw.

Relations never fully recovered and Charles will be relieved that Boris had left No 10 before he ascended to the throne, he added.

Mr Johnson brought Mr Harri into No 10 after a clearout of aides over the partygate scandal, bringing back his former City Hall communications adviser into his inner circle.

A source close to Mr Johnson said: Boris Johnson does not recognise this account and it is inaccurate. It does not accurately reflect any conversation

We would never comment on these matters and Mr Johnson deplores any attempt to do so.
A second 17-year-old boy was also hurt in the incident but his injuries were not thought to be life-threatening (Yui Mok/PA)   Yui Mok

A 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death in Buckinghamshire in a targeted attack, police said.

Thames Valley Police are hunting for up to four suspects  who had their faces covered  following Sunday nights attack in High Wycombe.

Another 17-year-old boy was also hurt but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening and he has been taken to hospital.

Officers were called to reports of the stabbing in the Easton Street area of High Wycombe at about 7.30pm on Sunday.

No arrests have been made.

Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown said the investigation into the tragic incident was in the very early stages and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

He added: The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.

This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

However, Id like to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

He said there would be a large police presence in the area as officers investigated.

On Monday, Wycombe MP Steve Baker, who is also a Northern Ireland Office minister, told the PA news agency: This is a tragic incident and its vital we leave space for the police to conduct their inquiries and, for that reason, I dont want to say much about this continuing inquiry.

But my heart goes out to the young mans family and friends who I do not doubt will feel devastated.

For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up.

Easton Street remained cordoned off on Monday evening as police officers in white forensic suits entered properties and searched front gardens.

One local business owner, whose premises back onto the site of the police investigation, said he was scared.

Akib Tayyab, 28, branch manager of QV Traditional Turkish Barber, said: It was scary because it is behind my shop. Im scared this happened. It is very dangerous.

I hope the police catch them soon because this is not good for our town.

Video footage from Mr Tayyabs premises showed two police tents remained in place in the small car park where the teenager is reported to have been killed.

Mr Tayyab added: You see too much drug dealers and homeless people around here. Its not good.

Saravnan Karuvayan, 46, the manager of Kappad restaurant on High Street, said: I was shocked. We have never had anything like this before.

Were worried because people might think its not a nice place for safety.

Rav Lam, 34, a shop assistant at Londis on High Street, said: I was working here after 7pm on Sunday. Some people told me that some boy got stabbed in the hand. In the morning, people came in and said somebody had been killed.

Its very shocking. Its ridiculous. Usually, I feel safe in this area.

A woman who works close to the scene of the stabbing but did not want to give her name, said, while she did not see the incident, she was a bit scared because its on our doorstep because my shop is just 10 metres from that.

Anyone with information or footage which could help the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 43230199275.

The stabbing came after three people were stabbed to death in separate incidents in east London over a period of less than eight hours on the eve of the coronation.

Renell Charles, 16, was ambushed as he left school and stabbed to death, while murder investigations were also started after the killings of 18-year-old Jordan Kukabu and 27-year-old Sebastian Zon, the Metropolitan Police said.

In another incident, an 18-year-old man who has been named by police as Ben Moncrieff was killed in Bath, in Somerset, in the early hours of Saturday.
Diners at a local lunch club in Hertfordshire have said they feel really fortunate after a surprise visit by the Prime Minister as part of the Big Help Out.

Local residents, most of them elderly, were served lamb casserole and wine by very special guests Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, in the dining room of Mill End Community Centre in Rickmansworth.

The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) runs a lunch club at the centre from Monday to Friday, predominantly for people in the community who are removed from family networks.

Rishi Sunak proved an attentive waiter (Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph)   Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph

Mr Sunak and Ms Murty chopped parsnips and strawberries in the kitchen in black aprons before joining the room in a toast which ended in the group saying long live the King and giving three cheers.

Across the country people have been encouraged to devote some free time on the Monday of the coronation bank holiday weekend for the Big Help Out, aimed at showcasing volunteering.

Diners, who had not been warned about their prestigious helpers, chatted and took selfies with the Prime Minister surrounded by Union flag tablecloths, napkins and helium balloons, and rows of golden paper crowns.

Mr Sunak could be heard telling people about a big street party he attended yesterday in Downing Street to celebrate the coronation.

He chatted with volunteers about how many courses the club usually serves and whether there were any particular favourites on the menu.

One diner, Val Leach, a former teacher from Rickmansworth, told the PA news agency: I told him I had been a young Conservative when I was 16 but over the years I lost my way as the party lost its way, but Im back now.

Rishi Sunak taking a selfie with diner Val Leach (Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph)   Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph

With a miniature crown around her neck, the 77-year-old added that she was the proud owner of a bottle of whiskey signed by Margaret Thatcher and David Cameron.

Another regular, 89-year-old Peter Worthington, called the Prime Minister brilliant.

What a relaxed person, the former vet said. He was just like one of the crowd.

It was a lovely surprise. What you see is what you get. They are natural.

They dont appear to be career politicians  so refreshing.

Weve been really fortunate.

Pauline Warren, who has a brain injury and struggles to cook for herself, said she made Mr Sunak laugh.

She told PA: He brought my lunch and put it down in front of me. I said I always vote for people who feed me and he thought that was quite funny.

Mr Sunak and Akshata Murty donned aprons to help prepare the food (Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph)   Geoff Pugh/Daily Telegraph

Catherine Johnstone, chief executive of RVS and co-creator of the Big Help Out campaign, told PA that the charity runs hundreds of lunch clubs for people in various local communities  catering for the elderly, people with learning disabilities and those with long-term health conditions.

Asked about the Prime Ministers visit, she said: It was brilliant, absolutely amazing that they took the time to come in.

What was really impressive was that they just wanted to help out.

They came in, they donned their pinnies, they helped prepare the lunch, served the lunch and then they spent a lot of time with a lot of care talking to the clients that came here.
French President Emmanuel Macron reviews the troops during ceremonies marking Victory Day in Paris (Michel Euler, Pool/AP)   Michel Euler

French President Emmanuel Macron has led the traditional ceremony on Pariss Champs-Elysees commemorating the day that marked the end of the Second World War in Europe in 1945.

Flanked by prime minister Elisabeth Borne, Mr Macron laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe monument.

French President Emmanuel Macron lays a wreath of flowers at the Unknown Soldier tomb under the Arc de Triomphe during ceremonies marking Victory Day in Paris (Michel Euler, Pool/AP)   Michel Euler

A brass band played the Marseillaise.

To limit disruptions amid ongoing opposition to Mr Macron and his contested pension reforms, police banned gatherings around the area of the ceremony in the French capital, and in Lyon where the president will travel later in the day.

French President Emmanuel Macron revives the flame at the Unknown Soldier tomb under the Arc de Triomphe (Michel Euler, Pool/AP)   Michel Euler

Authorities are being vigilant that a casserolade or the loud banging of pots and pans in protest will not distract from the memorial ceremonies.

In Lyon, Mr Macron is paying tribute to the French Resistance movement and one of its leaders, Jean Moulin.

French President Emmanuel Macron meets war veterans during ceremonies marking Victory Day in Paris (Michel Euler, Pool/AP)   Michel Euler

Mr Macron is visiting Montluc prison, where Moulin was detained and tortured by the Gestapo.
People look at an apartment building damaged by a drone that was shot down during a Russian overnight strike in Kyiv, Ukraine (Andrew Kravchenko/AP)   Andrew Kravchenko

Ukraine air defences shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest night-time assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlins forces killed four civilians, officials have said.

The bombardments came as Moscow enforced tight security on the eve of traditional Red Square commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Russian media counted at least 21 Russian cities that cancelled military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  on May 9 for the first time in years.

Regional officials cited security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation.

Russian RS-24 Yars ballistic missiles roll towards Red Square to attend a dress rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade in Moscow, Russia (AP)   Uncredited

Parades will go ahead in Russias largest cities, Moscow and St Petersburg.

But the use of drones has been banned in both cities ahead of Victory Day.

In St Petersburg, which is often referred to as northern Venice for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city has also been prohibited until May 10.

In the Russian capital, car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city centre  drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there.

Five people in the Ukrainian capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration.

Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-storey apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko in an apartment building damaged by a drone that was shot down during a Russian overnight strike (Andrew Kravchenko/AP)   Andrew Kravchenko

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has routinely turned to Irans Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian Defence Ministry said.

The Kremlins forces used tanks, drones, mortars, warplanes, multiple rocket launchers and surface-to-air missiles to bombard Ukraine, the report said.

Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said.

One person was killed and three wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

In addition, six Russian rockets also struck the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk during the night, a regional official reported on Monday.

The missiles targeted the citys industrial zone and caused no casualties, Donetsk regional governor Petro Kyrylenko said in a Telegram post.

People sit in a park next to anti-tank hedgehogs in Kyiv (Bernat Armangue/AP)   Bernat Armangue

Russian authorities were preparing for celebrations on Tuesday of Victory Day, Russias most important secular holiday, amid tight security.

Many regions have cancelled their May 9 observances because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

On top of that, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday he had sent a draft Bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Mr Zelensky equated Russias goals in Ukraine with those of the Nazis.

Unfortunately, evil has returned, Mr Zelensky said on Telegram.

Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the frontline southern Zaporizhzhia region, towards the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

A Second World War Soviet army T-34 tank during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade which will take place on May 9 at Dvortsovaya (Palace) Square in St Petersburg, Russia (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP)   Dmitri Lovetsky

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city some 100 kilometres south-east, it said.

The report came just days after Yevhen Balitsky, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region, ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there on Friday, including Enerhodar which neighbours the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to occupied Crimea.

In a separate development, the Russian military command has promised the Wagner Group, a private military company, additional ammunition and equipment for its offensive in the eastern city of Bakhmut, Wagner founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin said in an audio statement published by his press service.

Mr Prigozhin on Friday threatened that Wagner fighters could pull out of the embattled city, where they have for weeks been Russias main assault force.

He accused Russias military command of starving Wagner of ammunition and causing it heavy losses.

In this handout image taken from a video released by Prigozhin Press Service on Friday, head of the Wagner Group Yevgeny Prigozhin reads his statement standing in front of his troops in an unknown location (Prigozhin Press Service via AP)   Uncredited

The threat marked another flare-up in Mr Prigozhins long-running dispute with Russias regular military over credit and tactics in the war.

In the statement on Sunday, Mr Prigozhin claimed that Russian defence officials have since committed to providing the mercenaries with ammunition and equipment, as much as is needed to continue and given Wagner a free hand to take operational decisions in Bakhmut.

A Ukrainian military spokesman on Monday scoffed at Mr Prigozhins claims about a lack of ammunition, saying Wagners problems in Bakhmut are instead due to a high kill rate and its inability to replenish its ranks.

There is no shell shortage. This is absolutely not true, Serhii Cherevaty, a spokesman for the Eastern Group of Forces, said on Ukrainian TV.

There are more than enough shells to fire at our positions.
He must ensure institution is relevant to young people, writes Ian Lloyd

It will be an amalgam of the traditional and the modern, an inclusive celebration rather than a quasi-imperial pageant.

Gone are the great and good (or at least most of them) with only 40 MPs and 40 peers present  a 20th of the number that attended his mothers coronation. Gone too are the distant relatives, such as the children and grandchildren of the kings Kent and Gloucester royal cousins and Lady Pamela Hicks, the daughter of the Kings mentor, Earl Mountbatten, whom he called his honorary grandfather.

Replacing them are 450 British Empire Medal holders, ordinary people who have done extraordinary things for their country  volunteers, charity representatives and community champions. A further 400 young people representing charitable organisations, nominated by the King, the Queen Consort and the UK government, will have the opportunity to watch the coronation service and procession from St Margarets Church, Westminster Abbey. For the first time in a millennium of coronations, the emphasis is on a meritocracy rather than the aristocracy.

It is vastly different from the 1937 coronation of his grandfather, George VI, when the king personally invited just four workpeople (as they were described): a weaver, a steel worker, a young pit worker, and a young employee of an electric works.

The coronation will also avoid any unnecessary expense at a time of severe economic hardship for millions. The processional route will be 1.3 miles  unlike the five-mile procession of Elizabeth II and George VI, which would have meant a mammoth security bill as well as the closure of shopping areas such as Oxford Street. There are also no expensive stands in Westminster Abbey, which enabled 8,250 people to witness his mothers ceremony. Only the normal abbey congregation of 2,000 will be present for Charless.

So, will this economic and social awareness from the king and his advisers be a flash in the pan, or is it the start of a new 21st century redefining of the monarchy?

In a way, it helps that he has had what David Cameron described as the longest apprenticeship in history. Unlike his mother who came to the throne as a comparative ingenue at 25, heavily reliant on Victorian-born reactionaries such as her prime minister Winston Churchill and her private secretary Alan Lascelles, Charles is half a century older and far more experienced.

He has inherited the pragmatic approach to the monarchy exhibited by both his parents. Already he has shown himself to be more initiative-taking than his mother, who tended to react to crises affecting the House of Windsor. He has signified his support for research into the monarchys link with the slave trade as well as making it clear, even before he became king that he wanted a slimmed-down monarchy, concentrating on the immediate line of succession.

This leads on to that thorniest of issues: what to do about princes Harry and Andrew, the two spectres at todays feast. It would be madness for the family firm for him to offer either man a return to royal duty. On the other hand, he is privately rehabilitating his brother back into family life, allowing him to walk directly behind him in the family arrival for church at Easter. Harry, who has infuriated his father by openly criticising his stepmother Camilla, is more of a challenge; though the King will never break off all ties with his second son, unlike Prince William who is a less forgiving character.

The newly crowned King will have to focus on even younger people, the so-called TikTok Generation Z, if he wants to make the monarchy relevant to all ages. Charles, aged 75 in November, and Camilla, who turns 76 in July, are far from an ad mans dream choice as king and consort, and will have to work out how to appeal to the citizens of tomorrow.

The King has, of course, helped over a million young people over the decades through the Princes Trust, as well as his other charities. It is one area that he will need William and Kate, and eventually the three Cambridge children, to involve themselves in. How to make young people, particularly those in marginalised groups, connect to a privileged and rich royal dynasty will be one of the immediate challenges of the new reign.

Another is challenging the perception that the royal family and the court show systematic bias against people of colour. This was highlighted in Meghan Markles interview with Oprah Winfrey in which she claimed an unnamed royal had concerns about her unborn babys skin colour. Racism also dominated the headlines when Lady Susan Hussey, the late Queens lady-in-waiting and godmother to Prince William asked Ngozi Fulani, a guest at a palace function, where are you from?

Mud sticks, and while friends of the King, including Nicholas Soames, claim he hasnt got a racist drop of blood in his body, critics claim its endemic in the House of Windsor. Charles, whose Princes Trust has helped young people of all backgrounds and colour, will again need to be proactive, weeding out reactionary courtiers and replacing them with a more representative staff. He and his family will have to be seen to be more involved in organisations that seek to eradicate racism in society, and to make more public statements on the topic.

The King insisted, in 2018, that it was complete nonsense that he would campaign on issues he championed as Prince of Wales, realising he needs to remain politically neutral and avoid controversial topics. He conceded: It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply.

Read more Belfast nursing student bags seat behind Ant and Dec at King Charless coronation

Nevertheless, when he speaks, people do listen, and it is almost certain that he will urge the prime minister of the day to push for action on the climate crisis. He can use his position and undoubted skill in soft power to bring people together and to remind leaders that the threat to the planet needs urgent action. As he warned in his speech at last years Cop26 climate summit in Glasgow, time has quite literally run out.

One other major issue he needs to tackle is his relationship with the Commonwealth, where rumblings of discontent concerning the monarchys colonial past, particularly in the Caribbean nations, was already apparent before the death of the queen. Her contribution to this institution was staggering over her seven-decade rule.

Her sons age makes it less likely he will be able to visit the 14 overseas nations he is king of besides the UK and part of the Commonwealth of 56 nations he is head of. It is one of several areas that the Prince and Princess of Wales will need to be involved in, with regular overseas tours to commonwealth nations if the link with the monarchy is to survive.

Ian Lloydis a professional writer and photographer, specialising in works relating to the Royal family. He is author ofThe Throne: 1,000 Years of British Coronations, The History Press
Callan Knitwear founder had a ball meeting star Tara Lynne after being commissioned for a 90s-style jumper

Belfast fashion designer Mary Callan has always injected an element of joy into her designs and that fun side was taken to a whole new level when she was asked to design a jumper for Derry Girls.

Mary, who recently relaunched her company Callan Knitwear online, is building up a bit of a portfolio for unique pieces for TV and film.

But it was her commission to come up with a funny jumper for the character Ma Mary in the smash hit Derry Girls which really got her creative juices flowing.

She explains: Cathy Prior who was the costume designer for the show contacted me out of the blue and asked me to design a jumper for Ma Mary and said they would need it in three weeks.

Mary Callan

She wanted a 90s pattern and as Ma Mary was a feeder, Cathy thought a food theme would be best.

I taught knitting in the Art College and we had an old machine which was pre-programmed with decorative 90s patterns. I showed Cathy the book of motifs and she picked out some she liked and I went off to draw some more on the computer.

We decided on bacon slices, eggs, a wooden bowl with a spoon sticking out of it designed on a 90s diamond pattern.

I got to meet the actress Tara Lynne ONeill who plays Mary to measure her up for the jumper and she was really good craic, she was even funnier in real life.

The design was very much Cathys idea; I just facilitated the making of it.

It is such a good show and it was a whole new departure for me, and really good to do something a bit comical and I got a real comedy buzz out of it.

I think the jumper is now in the Derry Girls collection at the Visit Derry Museum.

Mary's pieces are all hand-finished

The icing on the cake was that Taras character Mary wore the jumper twice on the show, the first time in series three when daughter Erin suspected her of having a hot affair with a plumber, and in the very final scene of the last episode.

Mary has also designed a sweater for the Northern Ireland crime drama Bloodlands and was asked to create a cardigan as part of the wardrobe for the movie The Wakening.

However, it is in her own fun fashion designs that she has managed to make a name for herself, combining bright colours with bold patterns to create a popular range of modern jumpers, snoods and scarves.

All of her pieces are hand-loomed, hand-tooled and hand-finished at her workshop in Conway Mill in Belfast, where she has amassed a big collection of modern and traditional knitting machines.

While Mary is passionate about heritage skills, she also aims to create exuberant designs that bring energy and joy to the wearer.

She says: I love working with bright colours and by putting a certain colour with a pattern, it can create an energetic pop.

Colour is massive to me; it is my starting point when I am designing.

Colour can have such an effect on your mood and certain colours can bring energy to a piece. I like to use it to create items that are easy to wear and yet have that bit of fun created by a pop of colour.

One of the knitting machines in Mary's studio

Mary (40) was raised in Newcastle and growing up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains was to help set her on the pathway to specialising in knitwear fashion design.

She explains: I did a foundation degree in art and design and decided to focus on fashion design.

I studied at Central Saint Martins, London, and my tutors realised my work was quite textured which was influenced by the Mournes and they felt it would be best-suited to knitwear design.

I was a messy sewer so I decided that my pathway would be knitwear.

When I graduated, I enrolled in an advanced knitting machine course in Brighton. My study at college had been creative and this was more technical and allowed me to combine different knitting techniques.

After studying I took a year out and I had planned to launch my fashion career in London but my mum took ill and I came back to Newcastle to help care for her.

I then took a stall at St Georges Market in Belfast just to have something to do. I also sold some of my designs to shops in Dublin so there was two strands to my business.

Ma Mary wears the jumper designed by Mary Callan in two episodes including the Good Friday Agreement special.

Mary designed a range of luxury scarves and snoods which sold in the weekly market in Belfast, while she enjoyed bringing colour and pattern to a luxury jumper collection.

She also landed a job teaching the technical skills of knitting for fashion students at the College of Art in Belfast, a position she was grateful for when Covid-19 hit, closing markets and retail shops.

However, emerging out of the pandemic she has returned to her first love of design full time, launching her new Callan Knitwear business online last November.

Callan scarves and sweaters begin life as a spool of yarn from one of the top wool or cashmere mills in England, Scotland and Italy. Mary works with only Merino wood and cashmere/wool mix yarns.

At her Belfast studio, the yarn is threaded up on traditional Swiss and Japanese knitting looms.

Ma Mary's jumper in Derry Girls

Although these machines are from an era when slow fashion was standard and not a buzz word, sustainability runs through everything Mary does.

She says: As well as the many benefits of wearing wool, the material I use is grown year round by Merino sheep, who consume a simple blend of sunshine, water, fresh air and grass.

Every year these sheep produce new fleece, which means wool is a renewable fibre. Also wool is 100% biodegradable so does not contribute to micro plastic pollution in our oceans and our land.

My Merino neck warmers are really popular, people love them. I have recently updated them from pure wool to include 20% cashmere which makes them really soft.

I was at an event in Dublin and a girl came up to me to say she had had hers for 10 years. That really makes me happy to think that people can wear it for so long. I do spend a lot of time getting the tension right as the finish is very important to me in making sure it is long-lasting.

After a massive flurry of orders when she launched, Mary is hoping to take some time out this year and add to her range with some new designs.

She adds: I have done an eveningwear collection before and I want to look at that again as well as some big comedy knits and also feminine flattering shapes.

I had a really good winter and couldnt believe how the website took off. I was actually struggling to keep up with orders. Its been great.

I think people are more into handmade and local made now and going forward I hope to keep adding to my range with some new  and of course fun  designs.
Hizbullah is working to elect a "puppet" president in Lebanon By Yoni Ben Menachem

web posted May 8, 2023 An important guest visited Lebanon in recent days, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, who arrived in Beirut and met with Hizbullah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah and senior officials in the Lebanese government. His meetings with senior officials in Lebanon dealt with the consequences of the agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran on the situation in Lebanon and the election of a new president for Lebanon. Amir-Abdollahian's visit to Beirut is interpreted as an Iranian message to the Lebanese that following Iran's signing of an agreement with Saudi Arabia, Iran does not intend to surrender its influence on Lebanon. Other than offering Lebanon power stations and "bilateral cooperation in the electricity and gas sectors," Amir-Abdollahian held out no hint of aid for Lebanon's collapsing economy. "Of course, the U.S. pressures and fear-mongering about sanctions are among the problems in this regard, but you should know that the U.S. sanctions have failed," he added, according to the Tehran Times. [Editor's note: In November 2022, Samantha Power, the Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development, visited Lebanon and announced a grant of $72 million in emergency food assistance. In March 2023, the European Union announced 60 million euros in humanitarian aid. Since 2012, the United States has provided $3 billion in humanitarian assistance to Lebanon.] The Iranian minister also visited southern Lebanon together with Hizbullah representatives, observed the border with Israel, and expressed his support for the Lebanese resistance. "We are here todayto declare again with a loud voice that we support the resistance in Lebanon against the Zionist entity," he declared. Amir-Abdollahian also met with the leader of Iran's foremost proxy in the Palestinian camp, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Ziyad al-Nakhalah, Secretary-General of Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine, (left)

met with Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian in Beirut The Iranian foreign minister held several meetings at the Iranian Embassy in Beirut with more than 20 members of the Lebanese Parliament and emphasized the need for the Lebanese to reach an agreement among themselves regarding the new president of Lebanon. In other words, he clearly hinted that Iran recommends aligning themselves with Hizbullah's line that promotes the candidacy of former minister Franjieh for the presidency. Former minister Franjieh is Hassan Nasrallah's candidate for the presidency and he officially mentions his name in his speeches and openly supports him. Suleiman Franjieh himself expresses optimism that the situation in Lebanon will improve in light of the changes in the region, chief among them the agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia and the rapprochement of Saudi Arabia with Syria. He is encouraged by the fact that France supports his candidacy for the presidency and by Hizbullah's insistence on continuing to support him as the next president. Hizbullah sends a clear message to the Lebanese that Franjieh is the only candidate for the position of president and that not supporting him will mean a political vacuum for a very long time. Hizbullah is looking for a president who will be its puppet, just like the previous president General Michel Aoun. While France, a significant supporter, supports Suleiman Franjieh's candidacy for the presidency, there is strong opposition in the Lebanese domestic arena to his election as president. Two Christian blocs oppose his candidacy for the presidency: the "Free National Party" and "The Lebanese Forces Party." They are working to thwart his election as president and are citing the Lebanese constitution, which states that a president must be elected by the parliament with a two-thirds majority. Suleiman Franjieh is considered by his opponents to be a corrupt politician, part of the government apparatus that has looted Lebanon's finances in recent years, and a puppet of Syria. For them, his election as president of Lebanon means handing Lebanon over to Iran, which will strengthen its hegemony in Lebanon. Franjieh, for his part, began a campaign of courting and flattering all the parties in Lebanon as well as Saudi Arabia a few days ago. He said that he has no hostility towards Saudi Arabia and only wants good for the Arabs and Saudi Arabia. Hizbullah expresses optimism regarding the possibility that Suleiman Franjieh will be elected president of Lebanon. Sheikh Naim Kassem, Deputy Secretary-General of Hizbullah, said on April 28, 2023, that the positive signs are increasing day by day on the way to electing a president for the republic and that Hizbullah supports Suleiman Franjieh because he is worthy to be the president. He added that the countries of the world are convinced that they cannot impose on the Lebanese the man who will be the next president of Lebanon. The ramifications of the Iran-Saudi agreement on the election of a president for Lebanon Throughout the years, Saudi Arabia has had a significant influence on Lebanese politics. Lebanon cannot recover economically without the help of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries, which gives Saudi Arabia power in the election of the next president in Lebanon. Hizbullah is convinced that Saudi Arabia's agreement with Iran will have a positive effect on the resolution of several disputes and conflicts in the Middle East, such as achieving a ceasefire and a political solution to the war in Yemen, in which Saudi Arabia is involved, and also on the issue of the election of the president in Lebanon. Hizbullah is waiting for Iran to convince Saudi Arabia to support Suleiman Franjieh's candidacy for President of Lebanon. Saudi Arabia is biding its time to see whether Iran will deliver the goods when it comes to ending the war in Yemen. Iran is interested in showing the world that its agreement with Saudi Arabia is not a fraud and that by following it, the Middle East is moving in a more positive direction. One of the most prominent issues is reaching an agreement on the issue of the presidential elections in Lebanon. Hizbullah placed Suleiman Franjieh at the forefront of the political stage in Lebanon and sent a clear message to the Lebanese, saying that this was the next president for them, and they must accept him because there was no other suitable candidate for the position. Franjieh is trying to publicly disavow the label attached to him that he supports Syria and belongs to the resistance axis led by Iran. In media interviews in Lebanon, he claims that he will not be a "shadow president" and that he does not take orders from any party but acts from independent positions. The Lebanese public is not buying the goods Franjieh is trying to sell. As things seem now, a lot depends on the question of what will be the final position of Saudi Arabia on the issue of the next president of Lebanon and whether Iran will be able to soften it. The election of Franjieh will strengthen Iran's hegemony in Lebanon and the region, and, of course, this move is unsuitable for Israel and the United States. Lebanon needs to achieve political stability, but it will become even more of a proxy for Iran, which will significantly influence the decision-making system in Lebanon. Yoni Ben Menachem, a veteran Arab affairs and diplomatic commentator for Israel Radio and Television, is a senior Middle East analyst for the Jerusalem Center. He served as Director General and Chief Editor of the Israel Broadcasting Authority. Home
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The Serenity Prayer

Grace

The Lords Prayer

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep

Anyway

Prayer For Soldiers

Morning Prayer

Stephanie Hertzenberg is a former writer and editor at Beliefnet. She is a graduate of the College of William and Mary where she majored in Religious Studies and minored in Creative Writing. She maintains an avid interest in health, history and science.

Prayer is a staple of religious life. It is mentioned in the Bible hundreds of times and appears in every book and chapter in the Scriptures. Praying to God both to ask for help and to praise Him for His good works are central themes in the Bible. Unfortunately, prayer is an afterthought for many Christians and ends up receiving the same treatment as those New Years Resolutions to exercise more or eat healthier. You join a gym and throw yourself into eating clean for a few weeks, but come Valentines Day, you are back to skipping workouts, snacking on Doritos and calling a pair of Poptarts a perfectly healthy breakfast. Spiritual exercise via prayer usually ends up dying the same slow death as physical exercise. Prayer, however, is both too easy and too important to put on the backburner until you feel you have time to do it. You will likely feel like you do not have enough time, but you do not have to dedicate hours every day to prayer for your prayer practice to make a huge difference in your life. Here are seven common prayers that can transform your life if you focus on their words and try to live out their message.God,Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,the courage to change the things I can,and the wisdom to know the difference.Living one day at a time;enjoying one moment at a time;accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it;Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His will;that I may be reasonably happy in this lifeand supremely happy with Him forever in the next.AmenThe Serenity Prayer is one of the best known prayers today. The first stanza is extremely popular both among Christians and among non-Christians. The second stanza, however, is far less known and appears in far fewer quotes or motivational pictures. Both stanzas, however, are equally valuable. The first stanza is one that you can recite to yourself when you are dealing with frustrations or a sense of helplessness. It can help you keep in perspective whether or not your rage is actually useful. Though people always need to be careful that their anger does not cause them to lash out or become violent in either word or action, the Bible itself shows that there are times that fury is the correct response. Jesus Himself was enraged by the merchants and money sellers in the Temple to the point that He, quite literally, started flipping tables. Anger, however, is only useful if it can lead to change. If you are outraged by human trafficking and that rage pushes you to join an organization dedicated to ending the scourge of modern slavery, your anger is useful. If all you do is make a few social media posts and then forget about the issue, your anger is empty and useless. If you are furious at the tree limb that fell on your car and broke the windshield, you can either use that anger productively by removing similar dead limbs from other trees around your house or you can possess useless anger and stand there swearing at a tree.Frustration has a place in life, and the serenity prayer is important in that it does not simply call on you to change what you can but to focus your efforts where you can actually make a difference. The second stanza gives a more detailed path toward achieving the serenity the prayer asks God to grant. Enjoying the little moments and accepting that life is beautiful despite its imperfections are good ways to work toward serenity in your life.Bless us, O Lord,and these, Thy gifts,which we are about to receive from Thy bountythrough Christ, our Lord.AmenLord,thank You for the food before us,the family and friends beside us and the love between us.AmenThank you, Godfor this food, for rest and home, and all things good;for wind and rain and sun above;but most of all those we love.AmenSaying Grace is a common phrase in Christian households, but there are a stunning number of Christians who actually have no idea how to say grace or exemplify the expression deer in the headlights when asked to pray before a meal. The tradition can seem old fashioned today, but praying before a meal helps you to remember how lucky you are and may remind you of those who are not fortunate enough to have enough to eat. There are endless variations on grace, and many denominations have a version that they favor. You can either stick with a traditional version or create your own. The point is simply to make sure that you give thanks to God for what you have and take a moment to appreciate your blessings. That gratitude can do incredible things in your life.Our Father,Who art in heaven,hallowed be Thy name.Thy kingdom come,Thy will be doneon earth as it is in heaven.Give us this day, our daily breadand forgive us our trespasses,as we forgive those who trespass against us.And lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil.(For the kingdom, the power and the glory are Yoursnow and forever.)AmenThe Lords Prayer is the best known prayer in all of Christianity. Every Christian has heard it and knows it is based on the prayer that Jesus Himself said to pray. That commonality of the prayer, however, often keeps Christians from recognizing the power of the words in the prayer. When was the last time you really paid attention to what you were saying when you said the Lords Prayer as opposed to simply reciting a rote memorization?The Lords Prayer speaks to God in a familiar way. He is not Creator or Master but Father. The prayer is a Christian reaching out to someone they know loves them and praying that Gods will transform the earth into a world in line with what He meant it to be originally. It asks God to remember both the worldly needs of His faithful, such as bread to eat, as well as their spiritual needs by not testing them with temptation before they are prepared to face it. Any one of those ideas is powerful enough to warrant an entire prayer book, but the Lords Prayer grants each of them only a few short words.If you really want to transform your life, meditate on the words of the Lords Prayer and then do your very best to live them. Grow closer to God. Be grateful that your daily needs are met. Learn to forgive others. Accept that you will face temptation and prepare yourself for when you do. If you can do those four things, your life will be unrecognizable by the time you are done.Now I lay me down to sleep.I pray the Lord my soul to keep.If I should die before I wake,I pray to God my soul to take.If I should live for other days,I pray the Lord to guide my ways.Father, unto thee I pray,Thou hast guarded me all day;safe I am while in Thy sight,safely let me sleep tonight.Bless my friends, the whole world bless;help me to learn helpfulness;keep me every in Thy sight;so to all I say good night.AmenHow often do you leave things unfinished because you are certain that you can get them done tomorrow? How many times have you gone to bed without righting a wrong or apologizing to someone you love because you assume that you can deal with it in the morning? Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep is a simple, popular prayer that reminds people that no one is guaranteed that they will have another day or even another moment. The prayer serves to both increase your appreciation of the time you are given and encourages you to use it well. Live in a way that is guided by God and practice helpfulness and thankfulness. Doing so will turn your life upside down in the best way. Frankly, simply breaking yourself of the assumption that you are guaranteed another day can cause you to make the most of every moment and put you on the path to living without regrets.People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered.Forgive them anyway.If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.Be kind anyway.If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies.Succeed anyway.If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you.Be honest and sincere anyway.What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight.Create anyway.If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous.Be happy anyway.The good you do today, will often be forgotten.Do good anyway.Give the best you have, and it will never be enough.Give your best anyway.In the final analysis, it is between you and God.It was never between you and them anyway.St. Teresas famous poem is not a traditional prayer, but it serves as a reminder to live your best life and a plea to God to help you do so. It calls on Christians to live good, happy lives in defiance of all those who would try to drag them down. It also reminds them that the only one whose judgement matters in the end is God, so live according to what He wants, not the fickle demands of other humans. If you can truly turn away from concerning yourself with what others might think or how they might react and focus on living a righteous and generous life, you will find yourself transformed for the better.Dear Lord,This is the prayer I say tonight.It is for my loved one who must fight.This prayer is not for them alone,but for all the military far from home.I ask You to keep them safe and soundon their way to where theyre bound.We love and honor those who are asked to fight,so keep them safe for us tonight.AmenGod,Please bless our soldiers,Protectors of our land,Servants called to battleWhen our country takes a stand.Please give them strength and courageAnd hearts that will forgive,With peace and understandingIn a world free for all to live.Our countrys prayers are with themNo matter where they roam.Please be with them too, O God,and bring them safely home.Amen.Veterans, active military, police and first responders all deserve the thanks and respect of the people they defend. As such, no prayer life would be complete without prayers recognizing and thanking those who willingly risk everything for their country and community. Recognizing that your freedoms and liberties are bought and protected by those who willingly lay down their lives for strangers will help you appreciate them more. It will also help you realize how lucky you are to have those freedoms and, hopefully, spur you to do what you can to help free those who are not so fortunate.The prayers for soldiers can easily be modified to include first responders, police, veterans or anyone else who willingly put themselves in the line of fire to protect people who may never appreciate it or even know about their sacrifices. You can also include military, police and first responder families who spend each day living with the knowledge that their spouse, parent, sibling or child may not come home safely or at all.Dear Lord,So far today, I have lived life as You commanded. I have not gossiped, lost my temper, lied or cursed. I have not been greedy, grumpy, selfish, lazy, lustful or over-indulgent. I have not snapped at my loved ones or told off a neighbor. I have not been envious or let jealousy guide my tongue or my actions.In a few minutes, however, Im going to get out of bed. From then on, Im probably going to need a lot of Your help.AmenGod has a sense of humor, and embracing your own for a little laughter each day can do wonders for your outlook on life. The prayer may seem a hair irreverent, but the Bible itself is filled with double entendres, clever insults, off the wall jokes and even a bit of potty humor. So, there is nothing wrong with starting your day with a laugh of your own. If anything, it might put you in a better mood and let you live a better life by allowing you to be more patient and understanding with those you meet. It also can be a good way to list the things you wish to avoid during the day. If you need help breaking your habit of impulse buying because financial stresses are hurting your marriage, mention that in your prayer in the morning. If you have been short with your children, tell God that you have not lost your patience with them. Then, see how long during the day you can keep the first half of the prayer, the list of what you have not yet done, true. A bit of humor and focus can do a great deal to change your life, and a prayer about both can help you remember you are not alone as you make those changes.Prayer seems to be one of those things that many Christians say they want to do more of but never actually get around to doing. You do not need, however, a thick book of obscure prayers or a devotional to improve your prayer life. Simply taking the time and energy to focus on the prayers you do know can be more than enough to transform your life. As Christ showed with a few fish and some bread, small gifts can do great things when you put them in Gods hands.
A view of the Labuan Bajo marina, gateway to the Komodo National Park, is seen in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, where President Joko Widodo this week is hosting a summit of ASEAN leaders, May 8, 2023.

Updated at 5:29 p.m. ET on 2023-05-09 Indonesia and Singapore have condemned a shootout in Myanmars Shan state that locals said targeted a convoy of Southeast Asian diplomats delivering humanitarian assistance. The incident Sunday occurred days before the start of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders summit, which is expected to discuss, among other issues, the post-coup crisis in Myanmar. Violence wouldnt deter Indonesia, this years ASEANs chair, in its efforts to try to bring peace in Myanmar, President Joko Jokowi Widodo said on Monday from the Indonesian town of Labuan Bajo, the venue for this weeks summit of Southeast Asian leaders. The convoy was carrying members of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre), Jokowi confirmed. Yesterday, the AHA Centre accompanied by an ASEAN monitoring team was delivering humanitarian aid but unfortunately there was a shootout on the way, he told a news conference from the picturesque fishing town on Flores island where ASEAN leaders will meet from Tuesday through Thursday. The convoy came under fire on Sunday morning as officials headed to the Hsihseng township to discuss assistance for internally displaced persons (IDPs) with the Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLO), residents who didnt want to be named for safety reasons told Radio Free Asia (RFA), a news service affiliated with BenarNews. The convoy included two officers each from the embassies of Indonesia and Singapore, three AHA Centre officials and several junta administrative workers, locals said. Jokowi described the situation in Myanmar as complex but said the attack would not dampen ASEANs and Indonesias determination to call for an end to the use of force and violence. Stop the violence because it will only hurt civilians and benefit no one. Let us sit together and start a dialogue, the president said. Singapores Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that two of its embassy staff were part of the convoy, and had returned to Yangon unharmed. Singapore condemns this attack. It is critical to safeguard the safety of humanitarian and diplomatic personnel, to ensure that they can continue their operations and provide necessary aid to those in need, the ministry said in a statement. Only constructive dialogue among all key stakeholders in Myanmar can facilitate a peaceful solution in the interests of the people of Myanmar.

Workers repair a building at a camp for internally displaced persons in Hsihseng township, in the Shan region of Myanmar, after it was damaged by strong winds, April 25, 2023. [Citizen Journalist]





It was not immediately clear who carried out the shootings.

Myanmars junta blamed unnamed terrorists for the shooting incident.

It is feared that terrorists attacked a convoy of motor vehicles traveling from Taunggyi to Hsihseng to deliver humanitarian supplies to temporarily displaced families in Yay Phyu village there, the juntas Ministry of Information said in a statement.

When the security forces of the convoy responded to the attack and opened fire, the terrorist retreated. No one was injured in the incident and a security vehicle was hit by some small bullets from small arms.

The shadow civilian governments Ministry of Defense said pro-democracy forces had nothing to do with the incident.

Naing Htoo Aung, the shadow National Unity Governments secretary of the Ministry of Defense, told the NUGs news agency that the area was controlled by the juntas forces, the PNO, and pro-junta militia. Resistance forces could not carry out such an attack because it was not a geographically strategic location, he said.

A PNO military affairs official who requested anonymity for security reasons told RFA that five PNLO members carried out the shooting.

But PNLO leader Khun Okkar denied it. He said some of the group's own officials were in the convoy so it had no motive to carry out the attack. "It was impossible that PNLO attacked its own officials," Khun Okkar told RFA Burmese.

This incident was caused by a political rivalry in our region," he said, suggesting that a local militia allied to the junta was responsible, but declining to name it.

The PNLO itself is party to a 2015 national ceasefire agreement reached with a previous pro-military government in Myanmar.

RFA also called and emailed the embassies of Indonesia and Singapore in Yangon about the incident but received no reply.

The delivery of aid by the AHA Centre is part of a five-point ASEAN plan agreed to in April 2021, after a military coup ousted an elected government in February that year and sparked a nationwide uprising. More than 3,400 people have been killed since the generals seized power.

The conflict in Myanmar is likely to be one of the main topics of the ASEAN summit, but junta leader Myanmars Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing has not been invited to attend.

Sanctions are not a solution

Sundays incident underscored the need for ASEAN to cooperate with local organizations who obviously know more about the local political landscape and dynamics, Muhammad Arif, an international relations lecturer at the University of Indonesia, told BenarNews.

The harsh reality is that unfortunately there is no quick solution to the crisis in Myanmar. Indonesias gradual and inclusive approach might be our best chance, but it inevitably takes time, he said.

What Indonesia can do as the chair of ASEAN is to help create an external environment that is not conducive for the junta in Myanmar to sustain its role. Indonesia engaging various concerned governments can be seen as part of this effort.

Last week. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said Jakarta had quietly engaged with the parallel civilian government and military administration, as well as China, India and Thailand, in an effort to build trust with non-megaphone diplomacy.

Among the stakeholders Indonesia has engaged with are the junta; the shadow National Unity Government (NUG); Ethnic Armed Organizations in Myanmar; the European Union; Japan; the United Nations and the United States, Retno said.

Ethnic Entha community display placards during a protest against the military coup in Inle Lake, Taunggyi, Myanmar, Feb. 11, 2021. [Aung Ko San/AP]

ASEAN needs to continue its efforts to reach out to all parties in Myanmar and bring unity among all its ethnic groups despite the difficulties, Awani Irewati, a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency, told BenarNews.

ASEAN should not abandon or isolate Myanmar, because it will make it more dependent on China. China has a strong economic and strategic interest in Myanmar. Chinas interaction with Myanmar is dominated by economic issues, while the ASEAN-Myanmar dialogue has always prioritized the opening of democracy.

On Sunday, Jokowi told reporters that the path to a solution to the Myanmar crisis had to be through dialogue, local media reported.

In my opinion, sanctions are not a solution, the Indonesian president, according to a report by Kompas.

The Myanmar coup has strained ASEANs unity and credibility. The regional bloc has struggled to find a common stance and exert influence over the junta, which has ignored its calls for dialogue involving all parties, an end to violence and the release of political prisoners.

Summit agenda

This weeks ASEAN summit is also expected to address other issues such as the South China Sea disputes and maritime security as well as the promotion of human rights and democracy in ASEAN.

Indonesia said the summit would focus on making the regional bloc more relevant and resilient amid long-term challenges.

This is important to prepare ASEAN to face long-term challenges. This is where we need to strengthen the capacity and institution of ASEAN to make it more agile, Retno said on Friday.

She said Indonesia had three main pillars for its chairmanship: making ASEAN matter in regional and global affairs, making ASEAN an epicenter of economic growth and resilience, and implementing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

The AOIP is a document that outlines ASEANs approach to cooperation and engagement with other countries in the Indo-Pacific region, which has become a hotspot of geopolitical rivalry and tension.

This is very important considering the sharper rivalry in the Indo-Pacific region, she said.

Retno said that leaders from Myanmar and Thailand would not attend the summit, with Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha being preoccupied with elections in his country.

Indonesia expects the summit to end with the full membership of the tiny nation of Timor Leste, and various initiatives on human trafficking, migrant workers, fisheries, health, rural development, electric vehicles, and payment connectivity.

RFA Burmese and Pizaro Gozali Idrus for BenarNews in Jakarta contributed to this report.



This story has been updated to clarify the description of the PNLO.


The city of Manila, seen here on Jan. 8, 2019, suffered sectional power outages on Monday.

Power outages crippled parts of the Philippine capital Manila and nearby areas on Monday, forcing some schools to send their students home while others stayed open despite climbing temperatures.

National Grid Corp., the countrys electric power supplier, said there was insufficient power for Luzon, the most populous Philippine island that includes the capital of 16 million people.

In an advisory, it said the current available capacity in the Luzon grid was only 12,186 megawatts, but the recorded peak demand was 12,468 MW, or 282 MW higher than the available supply.

Five power plants are on forced outage, while three others are running on derated capacities, for a total of 1,354 MW unavailable to the grid, the NGCP said Monday afternoon.

Antonio Miranda, principal at the General Roxas Elementary School in Manila, said children were allowed to finish their lessons during the day, adding that his school was spared from the outage even as the heat became unbearable.

Imagine 40 children and the teacher inside a classroom. Even if we had eight electric fans going full blast, itll just spread the hot air, he said. And imagine still if we were cut off from the grid?

He said that his daughter, a college nursing student elsewhere in the city, was allowed to go home early because of the outage.

Hours later, rain fell on the Metro Manila region.

The lack of power supply is hitting Manila at the peak of the dry season, when temperatures can reach a maximum of 38 to 40 degrees Celsius (100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit).

AccuWeather reported that the capital should see high temperatures fall to about 33 degrees Celsius (92 degrees Fahrenheit) for the rest of the week.

NGCP said a transmission line and two units of Masinloc Power Plant tripped shortly after noon on Monday, knocking out portions of the Luzon grid and plunging swathes of Manila into outages.

It said five power plants were on forced outage while three others were running below capacity.

Manual load dropping ongoing. Some areas in Luzon including the Meralco franchise area are experiencing power interruption due to insufficient power supply, the NGCP said, referring to Manila Electric Co., which distributes power to Manila and nearby areas.

Following the advisory, Meralco confirmed it was implementing power interruptions for up to two hours in some areas of Metro Manila.

We are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to implement additional measures if needed, Meralco said.

The service is erratic

Meanwhile last week, opposition Sen. Risa Hontiveros demanded answers from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his energy officials as she complained about the governments muted responses to power grid interruptions nationwide.

Mr. President, prayer alone is not an adequate government response to the electricity problem. All our grids  from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao  the service is erratic. There are yellow and red alerts in different provinces, she said.

It is unbelievable why the response of the DOE (Department of Energy) is weak even though many provinces are already experiencing service interruptions, she said at the time.

On May 1, thousands of passengers were left stranded when domestic and international flights were canceled or delayed after a power outage hit the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

At the start of this year, more than 65,000 passengers faced delayed, canceled or diverted domestic and international flights at the Manila airport during the New Years holiday caused by a power outage.

In September 2022, Luzon was placed on a red alert after coal shortages forced seven power plants to shut down and three others to reduce output.

Between 2016 and 2021, the NGCP issued 22 red and 154 yellow alerts across all three Philippine grids. Red alerts warn of potential blackouts while yellow alerts warn of potential brownouts because of excessive demand.

Jeoffrey Maitem in Davao City, Philippines, Jojo Rinoza and Gerard Carreon in Manila contributed to this report.
How the legal system was abused with lawfare to convict the Proud Boys for J6 By Rachel Alexander

web posted May 8, 2023 Five Proud Boys were convicted by a jury last week for criminal acts related to January 6, 2021, but no one really believes they did anything more violent than BLM and Antifa. Thousands of the latter cases involving violence have been dismissed . U.S. District Court Judge Timothy Kelly allowed the Proud Boys to be portrayed to the heavily biased jury using language selected for its incendiary value to portray a distorted picture, including telling the jury about actions by others that weren't even taken by the five. It didn't help that the MSM includes language in most articles about J6 as "storming the Capitol" instead of a "mostly peaceful protest." They could have easily done the latter, because the five brought no weapons, assaulted no officers and Proud Boy leader Enrique Tarrio wasn't even at J6. Prosecutors repeatedly played clips of Donald Trump in an effort to manipulate the Trump-hating jury. Trump said, "Stand back and stand by" and encouraged supporters to come to J6 with, "It will be wild." Neither of those sound like a call to violence anyway, Trump frequently talks in hyperbole. But one juror admitted afterwards when asked why he voted to convict, that Trump's remarks were "part of it." In order for there to have been a conspiracy with Trump's beckoning, Trump would have been required to be involved too, but he never spoke with the Proud Boys about J6. Even MSM articles pointed out that "neither statement reflects directly on any alleged actions by the five defendants in the case." They admitted the young men merely engaged in a protest and march. Most of the five were convicted of seditious conspiracy and other felonies. The sedition charge has been rarely used in U.S. history, except against secessionist rebels during the Civil War  and against Oathkeepers involved with J6 earlier this year. The jury was told that seditious conspiracy didn't merely mean overthrow the government through force; it had the much broader meaning of interfering with the government by use of force. Kelly ruled that jurors could convict on conspiracy even if they found there was no plan to disrupt the certification of the election, but merely an "unspoken agreement"  whatever that means  to do so. Obviously, this overly broad interpretation could be used to convict anyone engaged in civil disobedience. Mike Huckabee observed , "[T]he language is vague enough to facilitate the criminal prosecution of public dissent." Martin Luther King Jr., Vietnam War protesters and those protesting national COVID-19 restrictions could all be convicted. It sets a very chilling precedent. Tarrio's instruction to create a "spectacle" at the Capitol was used to make jurors think he intended violence  but the Proud Boys are well known for their pattern of reacting to violence, not starting it. The jurors were extremely biased against the defendants; six had participated in left-wing protests or marches, and not a single one gave any indication of being conservative. Yet the judge would not grant one of the 16 requests for change of venue out of Trump-hating D.C. An FBI agent was caught deleting and withholding over a thousand Excel rows of messages she had written, but nothing happened. That kind of behavior often results in prosecutions being completely thrown out. The messages included a directive from FBI personnel to the agent to "destroy" 338 pieces of evidence. Kelly refused to let the defense cross-examine the agent over it. Kelly also refused to allow the jury to see 80 of the lines. Prosecutors collected over half a million text messages from the Proud Boys in a fishing expedition. Even The New York Times admitted , "none set forth an explicit plan to storm the building or to forcibly disrupt the election certification taking place inside." In fact, when someone suggested in a text to "storm the Capitol," Tarrio did not endorse the plan. Even prosecutors admitted the protest was "spontaneous"  so it couldn't have been some preplanned conspiracy. Jurors admitted afterwards that they convicted the Proud Boys based on the fact the five had deleted text messages  without even knowing what the messages said. Prosecutors scared other Proud Boys into saying negative things about the five, giving them deals in exchange for cooperation. Kelly denied at least 10 requests for a mistrial from defense attorneys. Judges don't dare to treat those prosecuted for J6 like regular Americans prosecuted for protesting, since they don't want to be forever known the rest of their lives as "election denier" judges, harassed everywhere they go. Looking at Kelly's previous decisions, there were signs he wasn't going to rule favorably. When Trump banned obnoxious CNN reporter Jim Acosta from the White House, CNN sued and Kelly ruled in Acosta's favor. It's now being ignored that there was no violent reaction across the country in response to the verdicts. The irony here is it's really the left that engages in violence when they don't get their way; the facts have to be distorted and provocateurs planted within right-wing protests in order to attempt to portray the right as violent. The Proud Boys may not be the preferred style for most folks on the right. But that's why the left is targeting them; it's easier to distort their actions and fit them into a crime than it is the rest of us, so left-wing prosecutors are picking them off to establish precedents that are a gross abuse of the law, which can then be used against anyone on the right. Sadly, Americans are so afraid of being canceled, censored and targeted that few dare to speak up to expose the truth behind these convictions, especially attorneys who understand the law, since they risk being disbarred. The 65 Project was formed to disbar attorneys helping Trump, especially in regards to the 2020 election issues including J6. Since the U.S. Supreme Court has ducked appeals related to Trump losing the 2020 election, it's highly unlikely this frightening precedent, which started with the Oathkeeper J6 convictions in January, is going to change. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative . She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home
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The suspect in the recent Texas mall shooting has been identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia who is thought to be a neo-Nazi sympathizer.

Texas mall shooting kills at least eight people and injures at least seven others

Authorities identified the suspect as a potential neo-Nazi sympathizer

The man responsible for the attack was found to be 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia

Texas authorities have identified the suspect in the horrific mall shooting that killed at least people as a potential neo-Nazi sympathizer.

The man responsible for the brutal incident in Allen, Texas, on Saturday was found to be 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia. On top of the people killed, the attack also injured at least seven other residents in the area.

Texas Mall Shooting

In an interview on Sunday, Steven Spainhouer, whose son was working at Allen Premium Outlets, where the incident took place, received a phone call from his kid. His son said there was a shooting at the place where he was working and added that he was helping people hide inside the break room.

Spainhouer, a former Army and police officer, quickly went to the crime scene and called 911 for assistance. Upon arriving, he counted the bodies he saw on the ground that, marked the latest massacre in the United States, as per CNN.

The recent shooting happened in the same week when a gunman opened fire inside a medical facility in Atlanta, resulting in one death and four injuries. Many Americans nationwide have experienced one of the 200 mass shootings in just the first five months of 2023.

The Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit organization, and CNN define mass shootings as those incidents where four or more people are struck, excluding the shooter. The suspect in the Saturday incident was killed by an Allen Police Department officer at the mall at the time of the shooting on an unrelated call.

According to a senior law enforcement source, officials are trying to investigate whether or not the shooter had any motivations rooted in right-wing extremism. The source added that while authorities currently do not have a specific motive, the shooter was found to have an insignia on his clothing that read "RWDS," which was thought to mean "Right Wing Death Squad."

Read Also: Ex-Marine Involved in NYC Subway Chokehold Killing Now Identified

Potential Neo-Nazi Sympathizer

In a statement, United States President Joe Biden addressed the recent shooting and added that the suspect was armed with an "AR-15 style assault weapon. One of the senior law enforcement officials reporting on the incident noted that the shooter was wearing a tactical vest and was also in possession of a handgun, according to NBC News.

Authorities added that Garcia had several social media accounts and was found to have been drawn to neo-Nazi and white supremacist content. One woman, who was neighbors with the shooter, described him as moving like clockwork, coming home and going to work every day.

During a press briefing, Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey said the shooting was a tragedy and argued that people want answers. He expressed his apologies to the families who were affected by the devastating incident, said ABC News.

Related Article: Texas Mall Shooting Leaves 9 Dead, 7 Injured

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
STOCKBRIDGE  He just called me an a--hole, said an angry off-camera voice at a late April Stockbridge Select Board meeting, as captured in a community television recording.

He and another commenter at the meeting had differing opinions over the possible financing of boat ramp renovations at a lake, the Stockbridge Bowl.

Come on guys, Chair Patrick White said in response to the reported expletive, trying to cool down the room.

White was not expecting the ramp discussion to became so heated. Sometimes, ironically, he told The Eagle in an interview last week, its the small projects that get the most passionate input.

Passion over a city or town issue has the potential to turn into rudeness, a subjective label.

The states highest court recently ruled that the public has the right to be rude, at least during an official public comment at a meeting.

In March, the State Supreme Judicial Court ruled that public comment cannot be stopped even if comments are rude, disrespectful, or personal speech about government officials or government actions, and while civility can be encouraged, it cannot be required. The justification goes back to the states constitution, adopted in 1780 and drafted by John Adams.

It protects criticism of government authority, even if such criticism is rude as the colonists eventually were to the king and his representatives in Massachusetts, says the 29-page court decision, written by Associate Justice Scott L. Kafker.

The decision came from a lawsuit stemming from a 2018 meeting in Southborough, when a resident criticized the body, accusing the town of spending like drunken sailors, and making allegations that the board had broken the states Open Meeting Law.

When a town official said the womans comments were slanderous to town officials who are doing their very best, the resident called the official a Hitler, and the official recessed the meeting.

The resident, Louise Barron, was the lead plaintiff of the suit that she filed with her husband, Jack Barron, and another town resident, Arthur St. Andre.

As the states highest court ruled, however, the boards rule requiring comments and remarks be courteous, free of rude, personal or slanderous remarks is unconstitutional. Bodies do have the power to decide when a comment period is allowed and how long people can speak. Such bodies also may remove anyone disrupting others.

The ruling has drawn a lot of attention. Free speech advocates like it, with the ACLU of Massachusetts calling it a victory for free speech rights and core democratic principles. Others, including the Massachusetts Municipal Association, are wary, worrying it could make being an elected official harder.

In the Berkshires, leaders of councils and boards are grappling with how the ruling will affect them. Some have public comment rules that may need to be re-evaluated, and some foresee problems.

Im struggling with the ruling, Pittsfield City Council President Peter Marchetti said. I think its OK to voice opposition to a decision thats made. But when we revert to name-calling of councilors or department heads, I think thats a bit overboard.

But some Berkshire residents who often speak at meetings see it as upholding their rights.

I do feel whether something is rude or whatever is subjective, said Michelle Loubert, a Housatonic resident who goes to town meetings weekly and often comments. Someone can take a harsh criticism as being rude. I think what the state is doing is erring on the side of the citizen.

Until recently, before residents would speak, North Adams City Council President Lisa Blackmer would remind them: No personal attacks.

It was meant as a reminder, she said, so that when I call them out, they cant say I didnt tell them.

That reminder vanished after the court ruling, but Blackmer did not draw attention to that. Referring to the Southborough case, she said, I dont want people to know about it because I dont want them to start calling people Hitler.

At a late March meeting, several residents complained about a member of the citys Housing Authority who was up for re-appointment, blaming him for crime in a public-housing building and saying he was not effective on the board. Later, one councilor asked Blackmer why she allowed such criticism of a board member.

I had to pull up the case law and show [the councilor] the ruling, she said. Without that, I never would have let them speak and continue the conversation, she said. Some of the attacks, they were personal. They were kind of accusatory toward an individual.

Public comment is not required under the states Open Meeting Law, and if civility in public comment becomes a problem, Blackmer would consider moving to exclude it from meetings altogether. She is not yet sure what the council will do, if anything, about civility rules it has. During public comment periods at meetings, people have two minutes and shall avoid personalities, libellous remarks and innuendo, council rules say.

Pittsfield City Council has a similar rule on its books against personal attacks during public comment. Marchetti said he intends to submit changes to the rules in light of the courts decision.

In the past, Marchetti has invoked the rule. Usually its just a reminder: no personal attacks, he said. In some cases people are talking so fast you cant interject anyways.

He said he has had to take a recess before, but because someone has gone over their time limit, a factor the court ruling allows bodies to impose.

Its dispiriting that public bodies cant enforce civility rules, Massachusetts Municipal Association Executive Director Geoff Beckwith said.

That likely will be an issue for the very few people who choose to publicly use their time at the microphone to berate or belittle public officials, he said. But we hope that that will be a very marginal offshoot of this case. And we expect that it will make being in public office more difficult and more challenging in certain settings.

The ruling is a reminder that public officials need to have a thick skin, said Andrew Hogeland, a member of the Williamstown Select Board and president of the Massachusetts Select Board Association.

At the same time, he said, Theres been a collective shaking of the heads that this could make life more difficult for everyone. He is in touch with Select Board leaders across the state, and his advice is for them to review any rules on public comment to make sure they comply with the ruling.

His second piece of advice: Keep your cool. If someone throws mud at a public hearing, the worst thing you can do is throw it back.

The ACLU of Massachusetts filed a brief asking the court to rule against Southboroughs public comment policy. Our state constitution protects our right to make our voices heard, including by expressing criticism to and about public officials, the groups executive director, Carol Rose, said in a statement after the ruling. Indeed, that freedom goes to the heart of what separates us from repressive regimes. This ruling is a crucial  and resounding  recognition of these values and legal principles at a time when free speech rights are threatened nationwide.

Loubert, the Housatonic resident, followed the case and was also excited by the courts ruling. This is the place for citizens to voice their concerns, she said. She has also experienced the other side, having served as a public official on the Great Barrington Finance Committee.

In 2015, Loubert successfully submitted a petition to change the towns bylaws to require public meetings to include time for citizens to speak. Citizen participation is extremely important, she said.

Josh Bloom started going regularly to public meetings in his town, Lee, and those nearby after Lee officials in 2021 removed anti-PCB dump lawn signs from residents yards. The signs, officials said, violated a zoning bylaw, but they later apologized for removing them.

Bloom now goes to meetings multiple times each week, he said, most often commenting against a PCB waste-disposal site planned for the town. I think it is good the Supreme Judicial Court ruled in favor of freedom of speech, Bloom said. Public engagement is a key factor in active democracy.

He added that he has witnessed other ways boards limit public comment. For instance, he said that at a meeting in a town hes not a resident of, he was told he wasnt allowed to speak. The SJC ruling does not change that.

At a February Lee Select Board meeting, Bloom said he witnessed an incident related to free speech.

In the public-comment session, a resident was asked to sit down because he had already spoken, a video recording showed. That resident then shouted Youre a liar at another commenter who just had spoken virtually. When the shouter continued to shout, he was asked to leave, the recording showed.

The court allows for time restrictions on comments if they are allowed and comment sessions can be required to be orderly and peaceable the decision says.

Despite its full-throated endorsement of the decision, the state ACLU chapter acknowledges a misgiving it heard from public bodies  that meetings would become disorderly  in a March 10 letter the organization sent to the Massachusetts Municipal Lawyers Association and Massachusetts Association of School Committees.

We hope to work together to maintain peaceable and orderly meetings and to preserve constitutionally protected input by the public, reads the letter, which the ACLU gave to The Eagle. It lists a number of suggested tips, including that speakers must be recognized by the chair before speaking, anyone interrupting another person can be removed, and that physical disruption or threats of violence are grounds for removal.

In Stockbridge, White, the Select Board chair, is not worried that his job is about to become harder. Im a grownup and if you yell at me, that comes with the job, he said. Hes more concerned that if meetings become more hostile, then overall public participation will drop.

When one member of the public hurled a swear word at another, he said, Thats OK were all grownups. Weve heard these words before. But it doesnt help foster an environment for discourse.

White wants people to come to meetings. Although the language used over the boat ramp issue was salty, he said, at the same token, they showed up, they participated. And they helped us come up with a better solution.
I have been rather emotionally exhausted lately and I thought it was probably because of my new 4-month-old puppy running me around to no end, but I soon realized whats been weighing on my mind so heavily.

These days, to me, it feels as though the United States' social and political culture is fighting over whether or not to validate the existence of trans, queer and gender-nonconforming individuals on an aggressive level in many states.

The last straw of exhaustion boiled over in me after reading the news of republicans in Montana barring transgender lawmaker Zooey Zephyr from participating on the House floor for comments she made regarding the passage of a bill to deny gender-affirming medical care to young transgender residents in the state.

It is one thing to debate and actively legislate the disenfranchisement of someones LGBTQIA  Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual  identity and health care, it is another to bar lawmakers who identify directly with the community they are legislating against during procedure.

This will be my personal testimony on why LGBTQIA+ people deserve a seat at the table as their worlds decide whether to accept them wholly, especially if they are an active part of the voting required to influence change.

Lately, you may have seen the push by some lawmakers to target the transgender and gender-nonconforming community with bills stripping them of rights and protections in states like Florida, Idaho, Indiana and Montana, among others.

According to the Trans Legislation Tracker, in tracking 525 anti-trans bills in 2023, 47 have already passed. Last year, 26 bills of the 174 bills ultimately proposed (15%) passed.

Even in Michigan, there are three separate bills that have been introduced this year to restrict or remove protections for transgender individuals rights.

These bills are being proposed by legislators who are largely straight, cis-gendered and with little input from the actual community they could impact. Especially for transgender or gender-nonconforming individuals, the right to free self-expression and health care resources can be a life-saving need.

As someone who personally struggled with gender dysphoria and identifies as queer, I know some aspects of that struggle firsthand. I have come to recognize the privilege that I have in work Ive done to feel comfortable in my own skin and unafraid of how anyone views me or the way I look.

Recently, I received a good reminder of why representation and visibility matter, especially in places like Big Rapids and Mecosta County.

In one of my recent coverage ventures, I joined a Big Rapids Middle School class on a trip to learn about plastics. During my time covering their trip, I was approached by one of the students who asked how I identify and what my pronouns were, which I openly shared with them.

This interaction took me aback slightly as I dont often get questioned correctly about my identity often by such young kids, but I later learned from the students teacher that the student has been struggling with their gender and identity, much like I did when I was in early education.

I was told by the teacher that the student probably saw me as a safe person to ask those questions to, to my absolute delight.

As an adult queer person, I always hope that with someone like me in town living openly, more queer and transgender students will feel a bit safer to exist and be themselves in a world that is constantly telling them to stay in the social, gender and educational lanes built around them like a cookie cutter.

When you grow up seeing a country in which some people will accept you and others vehemently refuse to, it makes it markedly harder to find your place in it. I felt that pressure, especially as a student.

My point is life shouldnt be lived or interpreted in a cookie-cutter manner ever, especially when it comes to exploring gender expression and ones identity. History has seen many examples of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals across the world and making an effort to understand the spectrum of gender identity is vital.

LGBTQIA+ individuals arent going away any time soon, despite some legislators' best efforts to erase their validity.

According to Gallup, the percentage of U.S. adults who self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or something other than heterosexual has increased to a new high of 7.1%, which is double the percentage from 2012, when the organization first measured it.

While the legislation that I have seen proposed may not impact me directly, I have close friends who identify as transgender that will feel their influence.

Its my belief that legislating anyones body and rights, especially when they are in the LGBTQIA+ community, wont serve to silence those impacted. Weve only seen that this type of legislation serves to create protest, violence and higher rates of suicide among youth who struggle with gender dysphoria or queer identity.

Our voices as queer people, when we share our stories in queerness, serve to help cis-gendered heterosexual individuals understand our world more and they should be allowed in discussions on our rights and legislating them. Those discussions are often difficult to navigate, but they are vital to building strong bridges between ideologies and beliefs.

If youve never had a discussion with a transgender or gender-nonconforming person about their thoughts on identity and legislation, I say now is the time to respectfully ask.

You might be surprised with what youll learn about what it actually takes to transition (including that some individuals transition without medical assistance or procedures) that respecting pronouns is just a common courtesy, and how much of the queer revolution and fight for rights came on the backs of black transgender women.

You might also learn about all of the ways outside of transitioning that exist to explore gender and identity. I am someone in your community who you can inquire about that to without judgment if you'd like, just shoot me an email.

Bringing these voices into the legislative conversation can shed new light on how the laws passed may actually impact individuals.

I have spent plenty of time with transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals and even I am learning new things constantly, which tells me that we only have more work to do to find ways to connect with that community.

Pushing queer and trans legislators out of legislation that directly impacts their community is a direct violation of the democratic system if it wants to serve all people.

There are currently only 13 openly LGBT members of the current (118th) Congress, each one of them deserves the right to speak on legislation regarding these issues because their representation and voices will influence the lives of students like the one I spoke with and plenty of others across the country who are figuring out who they are.

My visibility might give hope and comfort to young people in my town, but my hope grows with the legislators and LGBTQIA+ politicians who speak out on the rights and care it takes to be yourself in this world on some of the worlds biggest stages.

Everyone deserves a say in who they want to become, and giving a platform to those like Zooey Zephyr who want to advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community will be paramount as more people are shown that there is more to life than the cookie cutters we were born into.
Tonight's rundown:

 Talking Points Memo: Joe Biden continues to decline with the world watching and remains out of the press reach

 Presidential Historian Larry Cook weighs in on how Bidens relationship with the press compares to past presidents

 US Special Forces have been confirmed to be in Ukraine

 OReilly describes Democrats hosting the DNC in Chicago as Crazy Arrogant

 The trial of Fox News gets underway

 58% of Americans are now living paycheck to paycheck even as inflation begins to cool off

 Smart Life: Utilizing Kelly Blue Book when searching for a new car

 This Day in History: FDR dies in office

 Final Thought: what to do when someone is disrespectful to you

In Case You Missed It:

 Read Bill's latest column, "Reason to Believe"

 Join 'Team Normal!' Order your gear now at BillOReilly.com!

 Pre-order Bills next bestseller Killing the Witches NOW

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Company's overseas customers are spread out across several countries

Ludhiana-based IOL Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Limited (IOL), a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical APIs and specialty chemicals, has received the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCares (EDQM) Certificate of Suitability (CEP) to export Paracetamol to the European Market. Paracetamol is utilised commonly in medication prescribed for pain relief and to treat fever.

The certification issued by the EDQM verifies the compliance of pharmaceutical substances and with this backing, IOL will now be able to export Paracetamol to the European continent.

The company started commercial production of the same in 2022 in its Punjab-based facility where it is also backward integrated to produce the key starting material for Paracetamol.

At present, IOL has a total capacity of 3,600 tonnes to produce Paracetamol.

IOL is the worlds largest producer of Ibuprofen API with 33% market share globally. Additionally, it has over 13 APIs in its portfolio, including Metformin, Fenofibrate, Lamotrigine, Clopidogrel Bisulphate, and Pantoprazole.
Multi stakeholder approach to mobilise nationwide support for awareness and treatment for blood related disorders

Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, released the Standard Treatment Workflow for Sickle Cell Disease on the occasion of World Thalassemia Day, on 8th May. This has been developed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The Union Minister further highlighted the need to take advantage of various initiatives of the Union Government for treatment of diseases like sickle cell anaemia such as the e-Raktkosh portal for blood transfusion requirements and the network of over 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres for treatment and diagnostic care.

She also launched the third phase of Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (TBSY) of the Health Ministry which is being supported by Coal India Limited (CIL) as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to commemorate World Thalassemia Day, on 8th May. She also launched the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana Portal.

The third phase of the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana will continue to provide financial assistance for a package cost of 10 lakhs per Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT), directly transferred from CIL to the institutions performing HSCT. The programme will benefit underprivileged thalassemia patients and those with aplastic anemia, which is an irreversible condition that can be life-threatening without treatment. The programme has empaneled 10 reputed hospitals across India, including AIIMS, New Delhi; CMC Vellore; Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai; MCGM Hospital, Mumbai; PGIMER, Chandigarh; Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, New Delhi; SGPGI, Lucknow; Narayana Hrudayalaya, Bangalore; CMC, Ludhiana and Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata among others.
This #AfricaMonth , Tilda Mwai, research associate at Estate Intel, shares with us some of the data behind the growth opportunities and challenges in Africa's emerging proptech market. While still in its infancy, the market is gaining momentum, with Nigeria leading the pack.

Tilda Mwai, research associate at Estate Intel

Mwai addresses some of the challenges unique to Africa, the criteria investors should focus on, as well as how the sector is likely to shape the future of the continent's real estate industry.

Funding allocated to proptech is gaining momentum across African markets, but it's still nowhere near the numbers achieved in more developed markets like the US and Europe. To what would you attribute this shortfall?

The African proptech market is still in its infancy stages and we are currently playing catch up to the developed economies. Proptech funding only accounted for $5.2m of the total $3.7bn startup funding raised in the year to September 2022. Still, there have been significant gains as this was five times higher than the average of the past three years.

Homegrown funding solutions also remain scarce, leaving the market to be dependent on the US and Europe for funding. This has ultimately slowed down momentum.

Proptechs value proposition is also not always straightforward compared to other tech solutions such as fintech. This means that in most instances, market participation has been limited to industry players. Unfortunately, real estate remains one of the most rigid asset classes when it comes to innovation. This has ultimately impacted on growth momentum.

How does proptech sector growth compare across sub-Saharan Africa's markets?

We have definitely seen some countries prevailing over others. Nigeria has been leading the pack with an estimated market share of 43%. This has been followed by South Africa (23%), Kenya (9.75%) and Egypt (5%). Interestingly, this dominance is still in the hub countries in each region.

The interesting trend to watch out for is which underdogs are likely to emerge within each region. Countries such as Uganda and Cameroon now have an estimated market share of 2.5% and 3.69% respectively, while others such as Botswana have notable proptech companies such as GoSmartValue.

What are some of the unique regional challenges for African proptechs?

The main challenges that are unique to African proptechs have to do with enabling access and climate change solutions.

As a highly fragmented region, access across the real estate ecosystem remains limited. This includes access to information, financing/mortgages, construction materials, security of tenure amongst others. It is, therefore, not surprising that the current proptech companies, such as Estate Intel and Home Africa for example, focus on bridging the gaps within this premise.

On the other hand, rampant power supply challenges, especially in countries such as Nigeria and South Africa, have catapulted a need for focus on ESG issues, especially in relation to property management and energy efficiency for landlords. While there are no significant companies to mention here, I believe this will be the future trajectory for upcoming innovations.

What are some of the key metrics that investors should be looking at when considering proptech investments in Africa?

Outside of the usual metrics focused on the region of investment and funding stage of the company, investors should keenly focus on the solution that a proptech company is offering.

Companies focusing on a need entrenched with the masses are likely to scale and innovate much faster.

Most proptech companies are still limited to offering property listing and property management solutions, currently accounting for 27% and 14% of the market share. However, there has been a notable shift to other solutions, such as data digitalisation and analytics (6%), smart buildings (7%) and flexible living solutions (3%).

How do you see the sector shaping the future of the African real estate industry?

As the African real estate industry continues to grow, increased proptech activity is likely to lead to market sophistication and formalisation. As earlier mentioned, the major challenge in the current industry has to do with the lack of access.

In an environment where investors are not able to access market information, determine security of tenure, access financing or access construction inputs easily, the market is likely to lag behind. However, with proptech companies actively bridging these gaps, we expect increased investor participation and overall market growth.

*Data provided is from Estate Intels analysis of 225 proptech startups in Africa.
In an unexpected and humorous marketing move, a plumbing company in South Africa has partnered with some of the country's top comedy talent to promote geyser heating elements. This unlikely collaboration is a reminder that in a world where even the unexpected can happen, creativity knows no bounds.

Willie and Dan star in the ad. Source: Supplied.

A few years ago, the Xtend team came up with a design for a geyser heating element that saves users up to 1,000 units of electricity per year. After three years of development, certification, lab and field testing, and installing thousands of Xtend elements, disaster struck: Covid, says Xtend investor/CEO Andrew Koch. Our supply chain and manufacturing processing in China were hit by lockdowns, load shedding (not only a South African problem) and supply chain issues. We had no stock for the six months.

Despair

In the midst of this despair, another director, Richard Pickering, found himself chatting to local comedian celebrity, Stuart Taylor, at his sons school camp out. The comedian explained that the comedy circuit had also been horrendously affected by Covid and the two men decided to collaborate.

Over a lager they discussed how they could work together, have a laugh and get their livelihoods back in order. It was synchronicity, such a wonderful word, and an even better life experience, says Richard, and we were flattered that Stuart wanted to work with us.

An old university friend Alan Grove, now a London-based advertising executive, came up with their first video script. When he warned that This must be done by professionals, we werent worried even though our budget was laughable as, with Stuart, we knew we had the best, says Pickering. Stuart called in top SA comedy talent Rob Van Vuuren and Kenwyn Davids to star, and Grant Atkinson to edit the new collaboration called: Willie and Dan stick it to the man. They filmed three hilarious skits about saving money by using energy-saving Xtend elements to mitigate the serious cost of living crisis. Afterall, South Africans are very good at laughing in the face of crisis, says Taylor.

Sticking it to the man

Van Vuuren says, We did the joke about sticking it to the man because Xtend draws less power and uses less energy, two to three fewer units per day for an average family. If you use Xtend with solar panels or batteries, it will make your system even more efficient and your home more self-reliant. The more geysers you use with Xtend elements the more the positive impact multiplies.

Taylor adds: This happened during a time when people wanted to help each other not for the big bucks but to uplift people through collaborating. During the pandemic my mantra was collaboration is key. We worked together to create something cool and fun and they saw the value in it. It was a novel and funny way to market this great product.

As a country we face serious challenges and need high quality solutions to address them. We are proud that Xtend is one of these solutions and it is exciting to help address these serious issues in a light-hearted way, says Taylor.

If you do the math, customers install Xtend and pay Eskom less, so these videos are brought to you by Eskom, he concludes in jest.

Credits

Client: Xtend Elements

Agency: Taylor Made Productions

Head of marketing SSA: Jason Pournara

Marketing and strategy operations lead SSA: Laia Martin

Senior art director: Grant Atkinson

Senior copywriter: Alan Grove

Senior strategist: Richard Pickering

Account director: Stuart Taylor

Account manager: Jane Renaud

Senior producer: Elisca Philander

Production company: Taylormade Productions

Director: Stuart Taylor

Executive producer: Stuart Taylor

Producer: TMP internal

Production manager: Zandile Nkayi

Production coordinator: Elisca Taylor

Moss DOP: Daniel Albertse

Art director: TMP internal

Make-up and hair:

Post-production: Rolyat Nosnikta inc.

Editor: Grant Atkinson

Sound studio: TMP internal
YDigital Media has been working closely with one of South Africa's largest load shedding monitors to allow advertisers the ability to strategically activate campaigns across mobile screens and devices when Eskom switches the power off and, after a bout of up to four hours of load shedding, back on again.

YDigital says this solution to its clients whose ATL budgets and reach are being compromised when the lights go off, thus mitigating the knock-on effects of lowered TV viewership by compensating in the digital space.

Performing without power

Advertisers can choose to trigger their campaigns only when the power is off or on, and paired with personalised contextual messaging, provides the opportunity to truly resonate with their audience.

By detection, based on the end user location through advanced Geo location technology, devices are impacted with brands creatives when that region is affected by load shedding.

The solution is not a one-size fits all. This as zones in one area differ to anothers e.g., Cape Town zones versus Johannesburg are the not the same. As such constant understanding of the Eskom feeds by the skilled team is key to the products success.

The impact of load shedding on advertisers and brands media sync campaigns has been significant, prompting us to design an innovative campaign solve to the situation that performs with or without power, says Nick Hodge, managing director of YDigital.

The new normal

Of course, load shedding has been with consumers for some time, with the three months between July and September 2022 recording the highest collective period of load shedding to date, more than any one year alone. Further, according to Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa we will not see the back of load shedding any time soon. With winter fast approaching, and the frequent breakdowns of power plants and planned maintenance impacting the capacity of the grid, consumers are going to need to live with load shedding for the immediate future.

By working with the load shedding monitor, we can quickly understand where power outages are going to happen, or when the lights will come on or go off. This enables us to deliver relevant and contextual creatives to targeted mobile devices thus gaining an incremental reach and elevating the brands impact and salience, he says.

For instance, this approach can be highly tactical as a fast-food brand could easily produce timeous creative that is turned on as soon as the power goes off in a specific area, encouraging consumers to visit their stores and buy their dinner.

Alternatively, we can serve ads when the power returns and use real-time creative to engage audiences where they are so that they are served the same set of ads across physical TV sets and mobile devices, increasing engagement, reach and frequency, comments Hodge.

Extra layer

Of course, consumers need to have data on their phones when their Wi-Fi goes down, and ISPs are seeing increases in data usage to offset the impact of load shedding on their ability to access content uninterrupted.

While the mechanism being employed to serve these campaigns differs somewhat, YDigital is no stranger to the media-sync product having first launched it in 2017 to the market.

At that time, as more consumers multi-tasked while watching TV, reaching them when they were surfing their favourite website or interacting with mobile apps during an ad break, we saw that reach and conversions greatly increased. Weve now added an extra layer to this experience that is relevant to South African brands and provides an elegant solution to overcoming load shedding woes  and protects budgets, concludes Hodge.
ATKASA Digital Agency, a leading provider of digital marketing services in South Africa, is thrilled to announce its partnership with Blind Guys, a premier provider of blinds, awnings, and shutters, as their new national client.

This exciting collaboration will see ATKASA manage the marketing needs of Blind Guys and its franchises, driving the growth and expansion of the brand across the country.

With their proven track record in delivering exceptional digital marketing strategies, ATKASA is well-equipped to boost the visibility and reach of the Blind Guys brand. This strategic partnership will enhance the brand's online presence, increase customer engagement, and propel the company forward in South Africa's competitive blinds and shutters market.

We are confident that ATKASA's expertise in marketing will play a pivotal role in driving our brand's growth.

 Wynand Louw, owner and CEO of Blind Guys South Africa

Leon Marinus, managing director of ATKASA Digital Agency, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: "We are incredibly excited to work with Blind Guys as their national marketing partner. Our team is dedicated to creating and executing innovative marketing strategies that will amplify the brand's presence and elevate their franchises. We believe in the quality of their products and are eager to contribute to their success."

Wynand Louw, owner and CEO of Blind Guys South Africa, shared similar sentiments: "We are confident that ATKASA's expertise in marketing will play a pivotal role in driving our brand's growth. Their passion for delivering excellent results aligns perfectly with our vision for the future. We look forward to a long and fruitful partnership.

ATKASA's partnership with Blind Guys highlights the agency's continued commitment to helping businesses of all sizes harness the power of digital marketing to achieve their goals. With the backing of ATKASA's marketing prowess, Blind Guys can expect a significant boost in their brand's performance and recognition in the market.

About ATKASA Digital Agency

ATKASA Digital Agency is a leading provider of digital marketing services in South Africa. With years of experience and a team of skilled professionals, ATKASA specialises in crafting innovative and result-driven marketing strategies that help businesses grow and thrive in today's digital landscape. Services include search engine optimisation, social media management, content marketing, and more.

About Blind Guys

Blind Guys is a premier South African brand specialising in high-quality blinds, awnings, and shutters. With a network of franchises across the country, Blind Guys has built a reputation for excellence in product quality, customer service, and expert installation. Blind Guys is committed to providing the perfect window solutions for every home and office, delivering exceptional value to its clients.




Food and beverage giant PepsiCo South Africa has appointed Riaan Heyl as its new chief executive officer, effective 1 May 2023. This appointment comes as his predecessor, Tertius Carstens , retires after 29 years with the company.

Riaan Heyl, new chief executive officer at PepsiCo South Africa. Source: Supplied

Heyl is a chartered accountant by training and joined Pioneer Foods in 2000. He has had a rewarding career that included senior leadership roles within finance and general management. He led the Essential Foods portfolio within Pioneer Foods from 2017 and following PepsiCos acquisition of Pioneer Foods, in 2020, took on the role of vice president for Go to Market and Commercial Integration across the South African portfolio.

Heyl steps into the CEO position after serving as PepsiCos chief operating officer in South Africa since January 2023.

Eugene Willemsen, PepsiCos chief executive officer for Africa, Middle East and South Asia (AMESA) commented on these changes: "Through a long illustrious career with Pioneer Foods, Riaan has proven himself to be an outstanding leader. He has been at the forefront of building one PepsiCo in South Africa commercially and culturally.

Building on growth trajectory

When asked about his appointment, Heyl said, This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead one of the best food and beverage businesses in South Africa. I'm grateful to build on what has already been achieved and passionate about the companys trajectory for growth where shared value, sustainability, our people and consumers are at the centre.

I am excited about the future  notwithstanding the current economic environment and all the challenges we face in South Africa. I truly believe we have iconic brands and the best people to ensure our continued success as we become Faster, Stronger and Better at delivering more smiles with every sip and every bite.

In South Africa, PepsiCo's brand portfolio includes Weet-Bix, Simba, Lays, Doritos, Liqui Fruit, Sasko, White Star and Spekko, amongst other brands.
(Photo : KHALED DESOUKI / AFP) (KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images)

The Arab League readmits Syria back into the fold after a 12-year suspension, prompting criticism from the United States government.

Arab League announces decision to readmit Syria back into the fold

The decision comes after Syria was suspended from the organization for 12 years

The United States government has criticized the decision

The Arab League has chosen to readmit Syria into its fold after a 12-year suspension amid authorities' rehabilitation efforts to normalize relations with President Bashar al-Assad.

However, despite the move that others have praised, the United States government criticized the decision to let Syria back into the league. The decision could soon allow Syria to resume its participation in Arab League meetings while calling for a resolution to the current crisis brought about by the country's civil war.

Arab League Readmits Syria

The situation comes as many Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates, have called to end Assad's isolation from the organization. However, others have opposed such a move for full normalization without a political solution to the conflict in Syria, demanding some form of conditions for the nation to be let back into the league, as per Reuters.

Authorities from Qatar, which previously opposed Syria being let back into the league, said that its stance on the matter had stayed the same. They added that they were hoping for regional consensus on Syria that would become a "motive for the Syrian regime to address the roots of the crisis" within its borders, said a foreign ministry spokesperson.

In a statement, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said that Syria's reinstatement into the organization does not mean that relations would be normalized between Arab nations and Syria. He noted this was a "sovereign decision" for each Arab country.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said that the American government shared the goals of Arab partners regarding Syria. These include building regional security and stability, but added that it "remained skeptical of Assad's willingness to take the steps necessary to resolve Syria's crisis."

Read Also: Ukrainian Delegate Punches Russian Counterpart During Black Sea Summit

Facing Criticism From Other Global Powers

The decision to bring Syria back into the Arab League comes ahead of the Arab League Summit that will be held in Saudi Arabia on May 19. It also comes amid a flurry of regional normalization of ties with Damascus in recent weeks, according to Aljazeera.

Syria's suspension from the league stems from President al-Assad's ordering the crackdown on protesters in March 2011. That particular incident later resulted in the nation experiencing a civil war that has since resulted in the deaths of nearly half a million people and the displacement of roughly 23 million others.

Jordan's top diplomat said that Arab states have been trying to normalize ties and cooperate with the objective of an "Arab-led political path" in addressing the Syrian crisis. Regarding the Arab League Summit, Gheit said that al-Assad could choose whether or not he attends.

On the other hand, the United Kingdom's Minister of State Foreign Commonwealth & Development Affairs, Lord Ahmad, said they remained opposed to engagement with the Assad regime. He added that the Syrian president continues to "detain, torture, and kill innocent Syrians," said BBC.

Related Article: UN Nuclear Watchdog Warns of 'Very Real' Dangers at Ukraine's Largest Power Plant

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Big screen film releases in May feature unwavering superheroes, mind-blowing sci-fi action, explosive action-thrillers, raucous comedies, inspiring drama and live operas from the Met.

5 May

In this third and final film in the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy, the superhero team are still reeling from the loss of Gamora. Peter Quill must rally his team to defend the universe and protect one of their own. If the mission is not completely successful, it could possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.

Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3 is written and directed by James Gunn and stars an ensemble cast featuring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Sean Gunn, Chukwudi Iwuji, Will Poulter, Elizabeth Debicki, Maria Bakalova, and Sylvester Stallone.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry is the story of an unremarkable man who sets off on a remarkable journey. Harold lives a life without purpose until he learns an old friend is dying and vows that in walking across England to see her, his journey can keep her alive.

A story of rediscovery and transformation, it is an uplifting reminder that youre never too old to take a chance, and that kindness is less rare than you think. Based on the 2012 New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller of the same name, this heartfelt and original take on the coming-of-age narrative will resonate with audiences of all ages. This British drama is directed by Hettie Macdonald and stars Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton.

The surrealist black comedy- horror Beau Is Afraid stars Joaquin Phoenix as the titular character, an anxiety-ridden man who embarks on a surreal odyssey home after his mother suddenly dies, confronting his greatest fears along the way. The film also includes a supporting ensemble cast that includes Nathan Lane, Patti LuPone, Amy Ryan, Kylie Rogers, Parker Posey, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Hayley Squires, Michael Gandolfini, Zoe Lister-Jones, and Richard Kind. It is written, directed, and co-produced by Ari Aster who induced nightmares with his films Hereditary and Midsommar.

South African actress Nomzamo Mbatha (who was born in Durban) stars opposite Bruce Willis in action-packed sci-fi thriller Assassins. A private military operation led by (Willis) invents futuristic microchip tech that enables the mind of an agent to inhabit the body of another person to carry out covert, deadly missions. But when an agent (Mustafa Shakir) is killed during a secret mission, his wife (Mbatha) takes his place in an attempt to bring the man responsible to Justice. The film is directed by Jesse Atlas who makes his directorial feature debut

The Met Operas live screening of Verdis Shakespearean comedy Fallstaff features a brilliant ensemble cast in Robert Carsens celebrated staging. Baritone Michael Volle sings his first Verdi role at the Met as the caddish knight Falstaff, gleefully tormented by a trio of clever women who deliver his comeuppance.

Reuniting after their acclaimed performances in the productions 2019 run are soprano Ailyn Perez as Alice Ford, soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano as Meg Page, and mezzo-soprano Marie-Nicole Lemieux as Mistress Quickly. Soprano Hera Hyesang Park and tenor Bogdan Volkov are the young couple Nannetta and Fenton, and Daniele Rustioni conducts. It screens exclusively on 5, 6, 7, 9 May at select Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau cinemas.

Read more about The Met Opera Season.

12 May

What if a random text message led to the love of your life? In the romantic comedy Love Again dealing with the loss of her fiance, Mira Ray sends a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number... not realising the number was reassigned to Rob Burns' new work phone. A journalist, Rob is captivated by the honesty in the beautifully confessional texts.

When he's assigned to write a profile of megastar Celine Dion (playing herself in her first film role), he enlists her help in figuring out how to meet Mira in person... and win her heart. Written and directed by James C. Strouse. It is an English-language remake of the 2016 German film SMS fur Dich, itself based on a novel by Sofie Cramer. The film stars Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Sam Heughan, and Celine Dion portraying a fictionalized version of herself in her first film role.

In the romantic comedy Book Club: The Next Chapter, four elderly best friends take their book club to Italy for the fun girls' trip they never had. When things go off the rails and secrets are revealed, their relaxing vacation turns into a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country adventure. Written and directed by Bill Holderman, and starring Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen and Mary Steenburgen, it is a sequel to 2018 film Book Club.

In the science fiction action thriller Hypnotic, a detective learns that his missing daughter and a string of high profile bank robberies might be connected. He must go on a mind-bending journey to find his daughter and stop the secret government agency behind the madness. Co-written and directed by Robert Rodriguez (El Mariachi), the film features an ensemble cast that includes Ben Affleck, Alice Braga, J. D. Pardo, Hala Finley, Dayo Okeniyi, Jeff Fahey, Jackie Earle Haley, and William Fichtner.

19 May

Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto and his family have outsmarted and outdriven every foe in their path. In Fast & Furious 10 (also known as Fast X) they must confront the most lethal opponent they've ever faced. Fueled by revenge, a terrifying threat emerges from the shadows of the past to shatter Dom's world and destroy everything -- and everyone -- he loves. This action film is directed by Louis Leterrier and is the sequel to F9 (2021), serving as the tenth and penultimate main instalment, and the eleventh full-length film in the Fast & Furious franchise.

26 May

In the live-action musical fantasy The Little Mermaid, Ariel, the youngest daughter of the kingdom Atlantica's ruler King Triton, is fascinated with the human world but mermaids are forbidden to explore it. After saving Prince Eric from a shipwreck and falling in love with him, she becomes determined to be with him in the world above water. These actions lead to a confrontation with her father and an encounter with the conniving sea witch Ursula, making a deal with her to trade her beautiful voice for human legs so she can discover the world above water and impress Eric.

However, this ultimately places her life (and her fathers crown) in jeopardy. It is directed by Rob Marshall and is an adaptation of Disney's 1989 animated film of the same name, which itself is loosely based on the 1837 fairy tale of the same title by Hans Christian Andersen. The film stars Halle Bailey in the titular role, alongside Jonah Hauer-King, Daveed Diggs, Awkwafina, Jacob Tremblay, Noma Dumezweni, Javier Bardem, and Melissa McCarthy.

In the comedy About My Father, Sebastian informs his traditional Italian immigrant father Salvo about his plan to propose to his American girlfriend, and Salvo insists on joining them for a weekend with her parents. Despite the clash between their two cultures and initial perception of having nothing in common, they eventually become a single, unified family by the end of the summer holiday weekend. Dirceted by Laura Terruso from a screenplay by Sebastian Maniscalco and Austen Earl. The film stars Maniscalco and is loosely based on his life and his relationship with his father, played by Robert De Niro.

In the action thriller Kandahar, an undercover CIA operative is stuck deep in hostile territory in Afghanistan. When an intelligence leak exposes his identity and mission, he must fight his way out, alongside his Afghan translator, to an extraction point in Kandahar, all whilst avoiding the elite special forces unit tasked with hunting them down. It is directed by Ric Roman Waugh and stars Gerard Butler.

A stellar trio assembles to take on the lead roles of Strausss comedic opera Der Rosenkavalier, with soprano Lise Davidsen in her Met role debut as the Marschallin, opposite mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard in her Met role debut as Octavian, and soprano Erin Morley as Sophie. Bass Gunther Groissbock returns as Baron Ochs, and Markus Bruck is Sophies father, Faninal. Maestro Simone Young takes the podium to oversee Robert Carsens fin-de-siecle staging.

It screens exclusively on 26, 27, 28, 30 May at select Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau cinemas.

Read more about The Met Opera Season

Read more about the latest and upcoming films.
On 21 February 2021, the Labour Appeal Court in Wheelwright v CP de Leeuw Johannesburg (Pty) Ltd [2023] found against an employer who sought to enforce a restraint of trade on the grounds that the wording of the liability clause in the settlement agreement was wide enough to expunge any other claims arising from the employee's employment.

Image source: Miguel A. Padrinan from Pexels

The impugned provision emanated from an addendum attached to a standard CCMA settlement agreement which was concluded in settlement of an unfair dismissal dispute relating to retrenchment as a result of the employer's operational requirements, and the calculation of severance pay due to the employee. At the time, issues that eventually triggered the restraint of trade clauses were not in existence.

In terms of the impugned clause, the parties recorded that the agreement was "in full and final settlement of all and any claims which the parties have against each other whether such claims arise from contract, delict, operation of law, equity, fairness and otherwise".

Interestingly, the standard CCMA agreement generally limits settlements to the actual dispute that is referred to the CCMA. A deviation from the restricted nature of the standard CCMA agreement is what fuelled the dispute in Wheelwright.

Here, the employer stretched the scope of the CCMA standard agreement to include claims that were initially not incorporated nor envisioned by the CCMA agreement. A critical finding against the employer was that the clause in the addendum extended beyond the referral at the CCMA. So the employer's argument that the settlement was confined to the unfair dismissal dispute and the calculation of the severance pay, could not stand.

In fact, the Court agreed with the employee's contention that the bespoke addendum signalled the parties' true intention; to craft an agreement that tailored to their desire to settle all matters between them.

Do these provisions apply?

Therefore, employers need to take caution against cutting and pasting provisions that may not be applicable to their specific circumstances. Not all settlement provisions will be suitable to your particular facts. Employers have to select and, where necessary, customise clauses that speak to their circumstances.

While it is understandable that wide liability clauses provide the comfort of legal certainty - knowing that any and/or all disputes relating to that specific employment have been dealt with - such clauses may also pose considerable risk. For example, broad liability clauses may potentially stifle an employer's ability to pursue legal action against employees on the grounds of unjustified enrichment where the employer seeks to recoup any outstanding monies or restraint of trade where the employer seeks to protect its financial and intellectual interests and competitive advantage.

Employers must always assess whether caveats must be built into liability clauses so that any existing rights and/or entitlements are protected.
Aspiring academic Anita Masenyama has graduated with a master's degree cum laude after investigating with remote sensing the water-related ecosystem services provided by grasslands in communal rangelands in South Africa. Supervised by the South African Research Chair in Land-Use Planning Professor Onisimo Mutanga and supported by funding from the Water Research Commission (WRC), Masenyama used remote sensing - a cost-effective technique - to map the ecosystem services provided by this vegetation type and estimate the benefits provided to communities in terms of water.

Source: UKZN | Anita Masenyama

"I realised that there have been a lot of studies on the application of remote sensing in mapping ecosystem services provided by wetlands or vegetation structures such as forests but when it comes to grasslands, ecosystem services are undervalued," she says.

"I wanted to do something to show people that grasslands provide a lot of ecosystem services, not simply forage, which is why I focused on water-related ecosystem services," says Masenyama.

Masenyama chose communal rangelands because research shows that these constitute about 13% of South Africas agricultural land and sustain the livelihoods of about 13 million people in the country but suffer from a lack of collective sustainable utilisation and are often degraded as a result.

In her literature review, Masenyama identified a gap in remote sensing water-related ecosystem services in grasslands and set out to contribute what she could. "When you talk about water-related ecosystem services, grasslands can provide water regulation, water supply, water retention, water infiltration and more."

She worked with communities in Vulindlela in KwaZulu-Natal, with assistance in areas of communication, translation, and the facilitation of visits, and visited research participants to provide feedback on her research, with more reporting sessions planned with indunas in the area.

Mapping water-related ecosystems

An international student from Zimbabwe, Anita Masenyama, has achieved academic success at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), graduating cum laude with a Master's degree in Environmental Science. Her research focused on mapping the water-related ecosystem services provided by grasslands in communal rangelands in South Africa using remote sensing technology, which was supported by funding from the Water Research Commission (WRC) and supervised by the South African Research Chair in Land-Use Planning, Professor Onisimo Mutanga.

Masenyama's academic journey began in 2017 when she enrolled for an undergraduate degree in Social Sciences at UKZN. She then completed her Bachelor of Social Science Honours degree in Geography and Environmental Management, achieving a distinction for her project on mapping invasive species in Pietermaritzburgs Ferncliffe Nature Reserve. Inspired by her success, Masenyama pursued a Master's degree in Environmental Science and discovered her strengths in academia, research, and teaching, with a plan to pursue a career in academia.

Throughout her studies, Masenyama was active in university activities, serving as a supplemental instruction leader and demonstrator, and also as vice-chair of the International Association for Impact Assessment South Africa, KwaZulu-Natal Student Branch. She credits her success to her supervisor and co-supervisors, as well as the support of her family and funding from the WRC.

Masenyama plans to continue her research on grasslands in her PhD studies to contribute to filling gaps in this field.
To celebrate this year's edition of Ancestor's Day which is today, Castle Milk Stout has called on the government to officially recognise this day as a religious holiday.

Source  Mkhulu MahlathiniGP Mkhulu MahlathiniGP Castle Milk Stouts ongoing campaign for the official recognition of Ancestors Day continues

This is part of Castle Milk Stouts ongoing campaign for the official recognition of Ancestors Day and part of the brands mission to get South Africans to re-discover and celebrate their African heritage.

It also has a competition #ICarryTheirName to celebrate the ones who came before us, where customers can win umcimbi worth R50,000.00.

The brand began its call for the official recognition of Ancestors Day in 2021 already.

2023 commemoration of Ancestors Day

As part of Castle Milk Stouts ongoing campaign for the official recognition of Ancestors Day, the brand has invited the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities, the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Department of Cooperative Governance & Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and the National Heritage Council South Africa to partake in an imbizo today where all the parties will discuss the importance of the commemoration of Ancestors Day, and what will be required to have this important day recognised.

The symposium will also serve as the 2023 commemoration of Ancestors Day following the inaugural celebration of the day which was held in partnership with the Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (CONTRALESA), Kgosi Milton Seatloholo, chairperson of The National House of Traditional & Khoisan Leaders, director of arts & youth development from the Department of Arts and Culture, Moleleki Ledimo and various stakeholders.

Awakening the African giant

Castle Milk Stout is proud to be at the forefront of this quest of reawakening the African giant, says Khwezi Vika, marketing manager, Castle Milk Stout.

We are pleased that through our brand, millions of Africans out there can savour the richness of Africa, hold their heads, and brim with pride to be called Africans, adds Vika.

Vika calls on those who share their vision for the official recognition of Ancestors Day to sign a petition on the Castle Milk Stout website.

Over the past few years, Castle Milk Stout has been at the forefront of lobbying the government to grant official recognition to Ancestors Day.

The brand has embarked on various activities with like-minded stakeholders to put this issue in the Presidents line of sight.

These activations created platforms for public discourse on African culture and spirituality, fostered collaboration with leading musicians to celebrate indigenous culture in song and dance, and forged partnerships with custodians of African culture and heritage to mark and celebrate this important day.

This #AncestorsDay we want to celebrate the ones who came before us.



Reply with the name & surname of the ancestor that you want to honour and tell us why, using #ICarryTheirName, and you could WIN umcimbi worth R50 000 to celebrate their life. Ts&Cs apply. pic.twitter.com/ABwfPUadJC  Castle Milk Stout (@CastleMilkStout) May 5, 2023

One for the Ancestors

To keep the talkability of Ancestors Day top of mind in the public domain, Castle Milk Stout also introduced an initiative fittingly called: One for the Ancestors.

This campaign created platforms for thought-provoking conversations on African spirituality and ancestry and allowed participants and the public at large to interrogate the importance of African spirituality, and the role it plays in our lives and discuss why our heritage is not accorded the same recognition as other religious holidays.

Castle Milk Stout harnessed the power of music to celebrate and preserve African culture when it launched both Clan Beats and its sequel Clan Beats 2.0.

A celebration of African culture

The commemoration of Ancestors Day forms an important chapter in our quest to proactively preserve and unashamedly celebrate African culture.

As Africans, recognising and acknowledging those who came before us is an integral part of who we are. In as much as other religious holidays are observed, it is also fitting that in a post-apartheid dispensation, we also celebrate African Spirituality which is indigenous to this continent and practised by millions of people, says Vika.
Adapting international brands to a local market can be a complex process that involves careful consideration of cultural nuances, consumer preferences, and regulatory requirements. While global brands may have a strong reputation and recognition in their home country, they may need to make adjustments to their products, marketing strategies, and messaging to successfully appeal to consumers in a new market.

Nadine Lerm, client lead at Wavemaker South Africa

Working with international brands for the majority of my career, I can vouch that media and creative agencies are almost always constrained by a clear set of global standards and have little room for innovation. However, as we approach the era of relevance, it is still the agency's and the local brand team's responsibility to collaborate, push the envelope, and make sure that the brand and placements remain pertinent to the target audience and that South African nuances are taken into account.

Reach and cost-effective buying are two crucial media principles that international brands are hell-bent on applying, and in the majority of cases where impact is produced, cost-effectiveness occasionally goes out the window.

Clients are reluctant to spend money where they may not be able to track the returns, which makes it harder for local teams to justify using unconventional placements, with the central teams with little local expertise and understanding. To guarantee that all nations are adhering to the same rules and making progress on all set KPIs, global companies end up checking the boxes and filling out tracking reports, instead of coming up with innovative ways to make an impact, which is usually worth the splash and necessitates bravery on the part of the brand and media teams.

To stand out from the "usual" and attract customers' attention, the Netflix team at Wavemaker decided to localise the debut of the latest season of Stranger Things by appearing in "unusual spaces" and in "unusual ways".

The team collaborated with the well-known Afrikaans publication, Die Son, and wrapped the issue in artwork that was intended to resemble a normal newspaper but had the wrap placed upside down, in keeping with the well-known Stranger Things concept. The landscapes in the advertisement were chosen to symbolise Johannesburg and Cape Town so that they would speak to the local market. The success of this ad raised public awareness of the launch of the new season.

A big shout out to Netflix for entrusting the local media team with their brand and local insights to help the new season of Stranger Things debut successfully.
Entries have opened for the second year of the FNB Youth Start-up Accelerator (YSA) Programme, which is partnership with Fetola. The programme provides mentorship, training, and support to young, committed, first-time entrepreneurs.

Heather Lowe , SME development head at FNB | image supplied

The YSA programme is a one-year programme designed to help young aspiring entrepreneurs grow and develop their business ideas.

Aimed at unemployed youth, and aspiring entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35, each year the programme teaches 100 young innovators the skills needed to develop their business ideas and get their enterprises off the ground.

The pilot cohort was initiated in 2022 and saw participants learn foundational business skills, take part in a group mentorship process, and receive investment readiness support and a small startup grant.

In the second phase of the programme, 50 entrepreneurs were selected to engage with mentors and in job shadowing, receive financial management, costing, marketing, and brand-building training and support, to build the viability of their business ideas.

Heather Lowe, SME development head at FNB, explains:

In a persistently difficult macroeconomic environment, the most potentially impactful approach is to create an ecosystem that is supportive of young entrepreneurs. There is no shortage of talent or ideas among our youth. But South Africa still has a long way to go before we have an ecosystem that promotes entrepreneurship at a national scale. The YSA programme aims to streamline the pathway from idea to execution and support entrepreneurship as well as entrepreneurs. This programme addresses some of the biggest barriers facing young entrepreneurs: a lack of key business skills, access to mentors and the opportunity to test out their business ideas.

Busisiwe Bebeza, programme manager at Fetola, says:

Youth unemployment is not just an economic crisis, it is a social and personal one. Persistent unemployment can be frustrating and demoralising. We want to demonstrate, through this programme, that finding a job is not the only way to achieve economic participation and success. Entrepreneurial activity is highest amongst people aged 25 to 35, indicating that this is a critical age group to target with interventions. We want to inspire our youth to dream of a better future, and to equip them with the skills that will help them build a better South Africa.

If you:

Are between the ages of 18 and 35

Have a business that is at least 51% Black-owned, younger than six months, and with an annual turnover not exceeding R1m, or you are an individual with a unique idea for a business

Are passionate, resilient, and driven

Find out more or apply online by visiting Fetolas website.
While small businesses may very well be the unsung heroes of the South African economy, their contribution to national development is unmistakable. Creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship is therefore not only good for business but it is also necessary to build a more equitable and prosperous economy.

Ben Bierman

Lets explore some of the most significant contributions that small businesses make to the state of the nation and why the country needs them:

The cornerstones of SAs economy

The most talked-about benefit of small businesses is their contribution to the GDP. A recent report published by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) estimates that small businesses contribute up to 34% of the total GDP. Often referred to as the engines of South Africas economy, small businesses provide much-needed economic stimulus. A factor that experts predict will become more prevalent over the next decade.

Small businesses and job creation

South African small businesses employ an estimated 50% to 60% of the workforce. In light of the countrys record-high unemployment rate, it is evident that small businesses play a crucial role in job creation. By providing millions of South Africans with the means to support their families, small businesses therefore also contribute to the alleviation of poverty.

Community building and service delivery

Consider the archetype of a friendly butcher, the spaza shop on the corner, the local hairdresser, or the tutoring business next door. These stories build and cultivate communities. Locally owned, small-scale businesses are milestones on the countrys socio economic landscape, providing much-needed services and keeping consumer spend within local towns and cities. They are therefore also engines of social cohesion, bringing people together, building support networks and bridging the gap between businesses and consumers.

Financial inclusion  a national imperative

In a country where inequality is one of the worst in the world, there has been a growing call for financial inclusion in recent years. This has been driven by industry leaders, private sector players and civil society who have highlighted the ardent need to build an equitable society. Entrepreneurship has the ability to bring more South Africans into the fold of economically active citizens, broadening tax the base, promoting skills development and securing the financial futures of more people.

Diversity in the business world

Entrepreneurship can open up windows of opportunity for disadvantaged groups, minorities and historically underserved members of society. In South Africa, particularly in the township economy, more women are stepping up to the challenge of owning their own businesses. According to Professor Meyer from the University of Johannesburg: Women are considered a reservoir of entrepreneurial talent. This is just one example of how the small business sector can support the growth of a more diverse business environment.

Employee wellness and job satisfaction

Several global reports suggest that employees in smaller teams are often happier than their counterparts in large corporates. Small businesses are in a better position to offer employees attractive benefits such as remote working, flexible schedules and performance incentives. Employees in small businesses typically also enjoy more individual attention from managers and other business leaders, which in turn fosters workplace cultures that are more tailored to individuals needs rather than the needs of the masses.

Incubators of innovation

Small businesses, due to their agility and creative approach to problem-solving, are drivers of innovation. In examples such as SweepSouth and Yebo Fresh, we see prime examples of how small businesses exist at the forefront of innovation in South Africa. Together, these kinds of start-ups play a vital role in helping South Africa maintain its competitive edge in the global innovation economy.

South African  and proud to be

The Proudly South African campaign, established in 2001, has made great strides in promoting local talent and showcasing the countrys abilities to produce world-class products and services. The ingenuity arising out of South Africa in sectors such as fashion, interior design, mobile technology and food production is testament to the remarkable abilities of local artisans and businesspeople. Campaigns such as these, which encourage South African to support the growth of the local small and medium enterprise sector are important symbols of national pride.




The Department of Health says it has noted an announcement by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that Covid-19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.

However, it is important to clarify that this doesnt mean the pandemic is over, the department said on Saturday, 6 May.

The fact of the matter is, the pandemic remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality especially in high-risk populations such as the elderly and people living with co-morbidities.

The department explained that the number of cases is far lower at the current moment than during the height of the pandemic, hence it is no longer viewed as a public health emergency.

Meanwhile, the department, in line with WHO recommendations, continues to recommend vaccination especially for high routine health services and will continue to offer services aimed at preventing and treating Covid, including vaccination services.

On Thursday, 4 May, the health minister, Joe Phaahla, warned the Presidential Health Summit delegates that Covid-19 is not over.

He announced that the country still has about 25 million vaccine doses and urged those who have not had their booster shots to get the jab, as winter approaches.

WHO director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said emergency committee members highlighted the decreasing trend in Covid-19 deaths, the decline in Covid-19 related hospitalisations and intensive-care unit admissions, and the high levels of population immunity to Sars-CoV-2.

The committees position has been evolving over the last several months. While acknowledging the remaining uncertainties posted by potential evolution of Sars-CoV-2, they advised that it is time to transition to long-term management of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said Covid-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Ghebreyesus said the end of the Covid-19 global health emergency is a moment for reflection.

The painful lessons we have learned, the investments we have made, and the capacity we have built must be transformed into meaningful and lasting change.
The director of the US' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is stepping down from her role.

Director of the Center for Disease Control, Rochelle Walensky.

Rochelle Walensky who led the Biden administration's pandemic response with Anthony Fauci said she would bow out of her role at the end of June.

She has been in this position for two and a half years, and ushered in Covid-19 vaccine recommendations and rollouts at the height of the pandemic.

Her announcement dovetails with that of the World Health Organization (WHO) that on Friday, 5 May, issued a statement that Covid-19 is no longer a global emergency.

It is estimated the Covid-19 virus continues to kill more than a thousand Americans a week.
Advertising in South Africa is, sadly, a protected industry... and by that, I mean that advertising agencies and their clients are protected from having to defend themselves against competitive campaigns because brands are not permitted to make direct comparisons with their rivals.

Thus, dog food brand Canine Cuisine could not come out directly and say that its competitor, Pedigree, was discontinuing its Dry Dog Food range.

Cheeky advertising

Solution: make a cheeky, challenger brand ad which relies on humour to make a subtle point that dog owners should start looking elsewhere for their pets nutrition needs.

We see a cute, lively little dog nosing around the Dry Dog Food Department, as it looks abandoned. No food, no people, just the signs of an evacuationand not a very organised one at that.

Inspiration strikers the doggie hero and he paws the lift button and goes to Canine Cuisine, where he is greeted with a whole new life  one of pampering, from facials to manicures to the much-desired meal of Canine Cuisines dry dog food.

The punchline: Whether your dog has a pedigree or not, make the smart choice and switch to Canine Cuisine

Its cheeky and makes the point  and it has been racking up millions of views on Tiktok, which confirms my belief that, apart from porn, the best way to get clicks for your videos online is to throw in cute animals

Orchis to Canine Cuisine and its agency, Retroviral.

Blowing smoke

The innocence in that ad is balanced by the cynicism in what I think is one of the most misleading campaigns around at the moment and what makes it even more repugnant is that fact that this is only the beginning, because there is big money behind this and a lot is at stake.

I speak of the so-called Smoke Free campaigns which are being aired on a variety of platforms  the latest was a recent full-page ad in the Sunday Times  and which purportedly want to alert citizens in South Africa that the government is about to ride roughshod over their rights.

Specifically, the campaign claims, the government wishes to remove an individuals freedom of choice by restricting their rights to consumer alternative tobacco products.

Interestingly, the Sunday Times ad, which contained no clear indication of who paid for it, cited the example of Sweden, where tobacco smoking has been reduced drastically because of that governments supposedly enlightened attitude towards the other methods punted by the tobacco industry. However, the evidence cited in the ad is from an organisation called Smokefree Sweden, which is nothing but a tobacco industry front.

It would perhaps surprise many to hear that this campaign  which ostensibly wants people to give up smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products  is actually funded by the tobacco giants.

Just to remind you, this is the industry which wrote the playbook for misinformation campaigns as a way to shield its repugnant products. In the 1960s and 1970s, especially, as people began to realise that, if consumed in the recommended way, tobacco is the only product which will kill you, the companies began pumping out a tsunami of misinformation, aimed at casting doubt on the science and playing up the supposed removal of freedom of choice.

As cigarette sales have been declining for decades, the tobacco industry has expertly pivoted to preserve its multibillion profit lines.

Dishonest media coverage

So, it has targeted young people as new smokers and has also, significantly, been promoting alternative smoking products  such as heated tobacco, e-cigarettes and vaping  as the healthy alternative to tobacco consumption.

The tobacco lobby has tried  through bought, earned and dishonest media coverage  to play down scientific suggestions that the chemicals in these alternatives are also potentially very harmful.

Much of the tobacco lobbys disinformation machinery pretends to be impartial  as in calling itself consumer rights lobbyists, or as scientists or doctors concerned about public health. But, even cursory examination of some of its campaign platforms show up the sleight of hand.

Unsmoke South Africa is one such bogus website and campaign, funded by tobacco giant Philip Morris South Africa.

Its messaging is seemingly on point when it comes to reducing smoking of tobacco products. So: If you dont smoke, dont start. If you do smoke, quit and if you dont quit, change. And it is on the latter that the majority of the focus is.

The message is clear: You dont have to stop smoking to get healthy, you can switch to vaping and other alternative products and be fine. Yet, in 15 messages  true stories, they claim  of people and tobacco, 11 are from people who changed to vaping, while just four are from people who quit completely. Thats fair, isnt it?

Interestingly, these campaigns are ratcheting up at home while in places like Australia, the government is about to ban vaping completely because it is so alarmed at the uptake in children and young people.

To Philip Morris and the others who peddle this potentially harmful disinformation, you get a smelly Onion and the wish from me that the government outlaws all this nonsense.
Twitter admits that private Circle tweets have leaked to the public, confirming that the Elon Musk-owned social media experienced a security issue.

The Circle feature should work like the Close Friends option on Instagram, wherein the audience is limited to a subset of friends. However, Twitter users report that a bug exposed supposedly private tweets to the public.

Twitter Explains Why Private Circle Tweets Leaked to Public

According to Bleeping Computer, the Circle feature on Twitter enables users to post tweets limited to their close friends. It should allow them to share some thoughts in a much smaller crowd. It helps them protect themselves from trolls, mainly when the topic is pretty sensitive since only those within the circle can interact.

On top of that, the feature gives Twitter folks an option to share stuff that is too private for everyone else. It lets users post things they do not want the public eye to see.

However, in early April, some Twitter users were surprised that private Circle tweets leaked to strangers after appearing on the "For You" page.

Engadget reports that creator Theo Brown suggested that the private tweets appearing in public must have something to do with an issue with the recommendation algorithm.

Since then, the social media giant has kept mum about the issue. A month since the issue made rounds online, Blue Bird confirmed a "security incident" in an email to Tech Crunch. The social media giant says it could have triggered a bug, which allowed users not part of the Twitter Circle to see supposedly private posts.

In a statement, Twitter says it "may have allowed users outside your Twitter Circle to see tweets that should have otherwise been limited" to a few people.

Read Also: Two Pranksters Bait Media Into Believing They Are Fired Twitter Employees; Elon Musk Mocks Platform Management

Twitter Circle Security Bug Now Fixed?

Twitter also says their security team has already found what caused the problem. After which, the social media giant claims it has been "immediately fixed so that these tweets were no longer visible outside of your Circle."

It is worth noting that the Musk-owned service failed to disclose the reason behind the security issue. Aside from confirming that it has addressed the security issue, Twitter also apologized to its users. The tech firm says that they "deeply regret" the incident, noting that they understand the risks that come with it.

Engadget notes that since Musk took the top role on Twitter, it has faced a couple of bugs and other janky issues. Not to mention that several outages have hit the giant platform.

Related Article: Full 'Super Mario Bros. Movie' Illegally Uploaded on Twitter: With Over 9 Million Views?

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
There are instruments so dangerous to the rights of the nation and which place them so totally at the mercy of their governors that those governors, whether legislative or executive, should be restrained from keeping such instruments on foot but in well-defined cases. Such an instrument is a standing army.Thomas Jefferson, 1789

What does it say about the state of our freedoms that there are now more pencil-pushing, bureaucratic (non-military) government agents armed with weapons than U.S. Marines?

Among the agencies being supplied with night-vision equipment, body armor, hollow-point bullets, shotguns, drones, assault rifles and LP gas cannons are the IRS, Smithsonian, U.S. Mint, Health and Human Services, FDA, Small Business Administration, Social Security Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Education Department, Energy Department, Bureau of Engraving and Printing and an assortment of public universities.

Add in the Biden Administrations plans to swell the ranks of the IRS by 87,000 new employees (some of whom will be authorized to use deadly force) and grow the nations police forces by 100,000 more cops, and youve got a nation in the throes of martial law.

Were being frog-marched into tyranny at the end of a loaded gun.

Make that hundreds of thousands of loaded guns.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the number of federal agents armed with guns, ammunition and military-style equipment, authorized to make arrests, and trained in military tactics has nearly tripled over the past several decades.

As Adam Andrzejewski writes for Forbes, the federal government has become one never-ending gun show.

While Americans have to jump through an increasing number of hoops in order to own a gun, federal agencies have been placing orders for hundreds of millions of rounds of hollow point bullets and military gear.

For example, the IRS has stockpiled 4,500 guns and five million rounds of ammunition in recent years, including 621 shotguns, 539 long-barrel rifles and 15 submachine guns.

The Veterans Administration purchased 11 million rounds of ammunition (equivalent to 2,800 rounds for each of their officers), along with camouflage uniforms, riot helmets and shields, specialized image enhancement devices and tactical lighting.

The Department of Health and Human Services acquired 4 million rounds of ammunition, in addition to 1,300 guns, including five submachine guns and 189 automatic firearms for its Office of Inspector General.

According to an in-depth report on The Militarization of the U.S. Executive Agencies, the Social Security Administration secured 800,000 rounds of ammunition for their special agents, as well as armor and guns.

The Environmental Protection Agency owns 600 guns. The Smithsonian now employs 620-armed special agents.

Even agencies such as Amtrak and NASA have their own SWAT teams.

Ask yourselves: why are government agencies being turned into military outposts?

Whats with the buildup of SWAT teams within non-security-related federal agencies? Even the Department of Agriculture, the Railroad Retirement Board, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Office of Personnel Management, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Education Department have their own SWAT teams. Most of those officers are under the command of either the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of Justice.

Why does the Department of Agriculture need .40 caliber semiautomatic submachine guns and hollow point bullets? For that matter, why do its agents need ballistic vests and body armor?

For that matter, why do IRS agents need AR-15 rifles?

Why do local police need armored personnel carriers with gun ports, compact submachine guns with 30-round magazines, precision battlefield sniper rifles, and military-grade assault-style rifles and carbines?

Why is the federal government distributing obscene amounts of military equipment, weapons and ammunition to police departments around the country?

Why is the military partnering with local police to conduct training drills around the country? And what exactly are they training for? The public has been disallowed from obtaining any information about the purpose of these realistic urban training drills, other than that they might be loud and to not be alarmed.

We should be alarmed.

As James Madison warned, We are right to take alarm at the first experiment upon our liberties.

Unfortunately, were long past the first experiment on our freedoms, and merely taking alarm over this build-up of military might will no longer suffice.

Nothing about this de facto army of bureaucratic, administrative, non-military, paper-pushing, non-traditional law enforcement agencies is necessary for national security.

Moreover, while these weaponized, militarized, civilian forces which are armed with military-style guns, ammunition and equipment; trained in military tactics; and authorized to make arrests and use deadly forcemay look and act like the military, they are not the military.

Rather, they are foot soldiers of the police states standing army, and they are growing in number at an alarming rate.

This standing armya.k.a. a national police forcevested with the power to completely disregard the Constitution and rule by force is exactly what Americas founders feared, and its danger cannot be overstated or ignored.

This is exactly what martial law looks likewhen a government disregards constitutional freedoms and imposes its will through military force, only this is martial law without any government body having to declare it: Battlefield tactics. Militarized police. Riot and camouflage gear. Armored vehicles. Mass arrests. Pepper spray. Tear gas. Batons. Strip searches. Drones. Less-than-lethal weapons unleashed with deadly force. Rubber bullets. Water cannons. Concussion grenades. Intimidation tactics. Brute force. Laws conveniently discarded when it suits the governments purpose.

The militarization of Americas police forces in recent decades, which has gone hand in hand with the militarization of Americas bureaucratic agencies, has merely sped up the timeline by which the nation is transformed into an authoritarian regime.

Now we find ourselves struggling to retain some semblance of freedom in the face of administrative, police and law enforcement agencies that look and act like the military with little to no regard for the Fourth Amendment, laws such as the NDAA that allow the military to arrest and indefinitely detain American citizens, and military drills that acclimate the American people to the sight of armored tanks in the streets, military encampments in cities, and combat aircraft patrolling overhead.

This quasi-state of martial law has been helped along by government policies and court rulings that have made it easier for the police to shoot unarmed citizens, for law enforcement agencies to seize cash and other valuable private property under the guise of asset forfeiture, for military weapons and tactics to be deployed on American soil, for government agencies to carry out round-the-clock surveillance, for legislatures to render otherwise lawful activities as extremist if they appear to be anti-government, for profit-driven private prisons to lock up greater numbers of Americans, for homes to be raided and searched under the pretext of national security, for American citizens to be labeled terrorists and stripped of their rights merely on the say-so of a government bureaucrat, and for pre-crime tactics to be adopted nationwide that strip Americans of the right to be assumed innocent until proven guilty and creates a suspect society in which we are all guilty until proven otherwise.

Dont delude yourself into believing that this thinly-veiled exercise in martial law is anything other than an attempt to bulldoze what remains of the Constitution and reinforce the iron-fisted rule of the police state.

This is no longer about partisan politics or civil unrest or even authoritarian impulses.

This is a turning point.

As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, we are sliding fast down a slippery slope to a Constitution-free America.

If we are to have any hope of salvaging whats left of our battered freedoms, wed do well to start by disarming the IRS and the rest of the federal and state bureaucratic agencies, de-militarizing domestic police forces, and dismantling the police states standing army.

Source: https://bit.ly/42iH8zF

ABOUT JOHN W. WHITEHEAD

Constitutional attorney and author John W. Whitehead is founder and president of The Rutherford Institute. His most recent books are the best-selling Battlefield America: The War on the American People, the award-winning A Government of Wolves: The Emerging American Police State, and a debut dystopian fiction novel, The Erik Blair Diaries. Whitehead can be contacted at staff@rutherford.org. Nisha Whitehead is the Executive Director of The Rutherford Institute. Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at www.rutherford.org.
Writer and journalist Gonzalo Lira, a citizen of both the US and Chile, was arrested this week in Kharkov, Ukraine for criticizing the Zelensky regime and is facing up to eight years in prison.

An American blogger, living in Kharkov, glorified Putin until the SBU knocked on his door.



On his channels in Telegram and YouTube, he had more than 150 thousand subscribers of a foreign audience. He told them about the "Ukronazis" and "hero Putin."



Now it will be 5-8 years to pic.twitter.com/CzhtwDsulE  Malinda  (@TreasChest) May 5, 2023



From The Helsinki Times, "Detaining Gonzalo Lira: Another blow to the freedom of press in Ukraine":

The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) arrested Gonzalo Lira, a US-Chilean national residing in Kharkiv, on suspicions of harbouring pro-Russian sentiments. This marks the second time Lira has been apprehended by the SBU. Lira, an author and filmmaker who relocated to Kharkiv years ago and married a Ukrainian, was initially detained in April 2022 but was released after a week without charges. He was subsequently instructed not to leave the city and prohibited from discussing his arrest.



As reported by Ukrainian media, the SBU's statement accuses Lira of publicly justifying Russia's armed aggression, denying or glorifying supposed Russian war crimes, and undermining Ukraine's top military and political leadership and Defence Forces.



On May 5, the SBU website published a statement in Ukrainian titled "SBU detained a foreign blogger in Kharkiv who denied the crimes of the Russian Federation and insulted Ukrainian defenders." The statement alleges that Lira was among the first to support Russian invaders and glorify their war crimes. It also accuses him of discrediting Ukraine's military-political leadership and Defense Forces. The SBU claims that Lira filmed provocative videos featuring Ukrainian defenders and insulted them.



Lira disseminated his "streams" on his YouTube and Telegram channels, amassing nearly 300,000 subscribers. He also denied Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities and the mass murder of civilians by Russian forces. The SBU has notified Lira of suspicion under parts 2 and 3 of Article 436-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (manufacturing and distributing materials containing justification of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, committed repeatedly).



In March 2022, Ukraine's parliament enacted 14 laws to counter Russian aggression, including two that modify legislation on information activity. These laws prohibit mass media from justifying or legitimising the denial of Russia's armed aggression in Ukraine and the occupation of its territories. They also forbid the glorification of individuals involved in the aggression or administration of occupied areas.



The Ukrainian Criminal Code now contains Article 435-1, which establishes liability for threatening or insulting military personnel and their families, and Article 436-2, which pertains to the justification or denial of Russian military aggression, the occupation of Ukrainian territories, and the glorification of those involved in the aggression or occupation. Penalties for these offences range from arrest for up to 6 months to imprisonment for up to 8 years, depending on the circumstances.



The SBU filmed Lira's arrest, during which heavily armed agents were involved. All participants' faces, except Lira's, were blurred out. A close-up of a smartphone displaying an image of Lira's children as a screensaver was also left un-blurred. Lira is currently detained on suspicion of producing and disseminating materials justifying the Russian Federation's armed aggression against Ukraine. The edited video shows heavily armed special forces knocking on Lira's door and aiming a machine gun at the 55-year-old Lira, who opens the door in his pyjamas. The metal soundtrack from Override Spedup fades down enough to hear the words of a special forces member telling Lira while tapping his arm: "Welcome to Ukraine."



While it is true that Lira has criticised the Zelensky regime and the eight-year-long shelling of Donbas residents by Kyiv, he has not participated in any activities other than exercising his right to free speech as a citizen and respected journalist. Whether or not we agree with Lira's opinions, freedom of speech must not be restricted, especially during times of conflict. These are the values we claim to be defending.

"Transgender" nut job Sarah Ashton-Cirillo (born Michael John Cirillo), who joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine, released a video on Twitter celebrating Lira's arrest:





This creature from AFU, talks about Gonzalo Lira and threatens all pro-Russian people across the world.

The blocks from Twitter on Pro-Russian accounts are countless and this "guy" threatens people on twitter and still keeps his account... Of course HE is not scaring anyone pic.twitter.com/NAsVsYspzj  Sinnaig (@Sinnaig) May 6, 2023



From The Daily Beast:

American journalist Sarah Ashton-Cirillo, who is currently serving in Ukraine's Armed Forces, said she is slated to be one of the witnesses in the criminal case against Lira. She told The Daily Beast, "This justice has been a long time coming. Obviously, when I was accused by Maria Zakharova and the Russian MFA of being complicit in Gonzalo Lira's disappearance last year, it set off a lynch mob of his supporters accusing me of murder. His arrest this week shows that Ukrainian officials don't bow to popular pressure when a factual investigation leads to the truth."



Ashton-Cirillo added, "I've already given my sworn statement to SBU about Gonzalo Lira several months ago and expect to be called as a witness in his prosecution."

Joe Biden said last week during the White House Correspondents Dinner, "Journalism is not a crime!"





"Journalism is not a crime."



President Biden said at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday that the U.S. is "working every day" to secure the release of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter imprisoned in Russia. https://t.co/5PdHKeX4U8 pic.twitter.com/DQvMejTiVw  The New York Times (@nytimes) April 30, 2023



Zero officials from the Biden regime have uttered a single word about Lira being arrested by Zelensky's thugs for his political views.



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The deranged One World Government assets are nowhere near ceasing and desisting in their slow kill bioweapon program, even after their murderous C19 DEATHVAX campaign has been finally rejected by the majority of the population; and precisely due to this, they are now doubling down in their targeted destruction of children.

If you had any doubts at this stage in the Great Reset game if these puppets are not actively worshipping evil, then here is yet another reminder:

And here is fellow DEATHVAX pusher Melinda Gates:

The only way evil defeats good is if the population continues to remain brainwashed by their reality inversion State health and climate change programming.

Its time to wake up and offer total nonviolent noncompliance to these power hungry sociopaths.

by Sean Adl-Tabatabai

Chelsea Clinton has declared that unvaccinated children in America must be forced to take the mRNA jab with or without parental consent.

Chelsea  via the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI)  along with the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation says she hopes to force jab unvaccinated children via a new initiative called The Big Catch-up.

The Big Catch-up will last 18 months and, according to Bill Clintons daughter, aims to become the largest childhood immunization effort ever.

Childrenshealthdefense.org reports: Clinton, who serves as vice chair of CHAI, last week presented the initiative at Fortunes Brainstorm Health Conference in Marina del Rey, California.

One day earlier, under the auspices of World Immunization Week, the WHO introduced The Big Catch-up, describing it as a targeted global effort to boost vaccination among children following declines driven by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the WHO:

This effort aims to reverse the declines in childhood vaccination recorded in over 100 countries since the pandemic, due to overburdened health services, closed clinics, and disrupted imports and exports of vials, syringes and other medical supplies.

During the pandemic, lockdowns led to restricted travel, which limited access to healthcare and other services, and in many cases, families suffered financial hardship, the WHO said.

Ongoing challenges like conflicts, climate crises and vaccine hesitancy also contributed to the decline in coverage rates, according to the WHO, which said the new initiative will act as an extended effort to lift vaccination levels among children to at least pre-pandemic levels and endeavours to exceed those.

More than 25 million children missed at least one vaccination in 2021 alone, leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases, including measles, diphtheria, polio and yellow fever, the WHO said.

The Big Catch-up will focus on the 20 countries  all in Africa, Asia and Central and South America  where three-quarters of the children who missed vaccinations in 2021 live.

According to Fortune, citing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), less than 70% of children in the U.S. under age 2 were considered fully vaccinated  defined as having received a full set of shots for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, and other diseases common before the vaccine era  during 2020-2021.

The CDC data also show that only 10% of children between the ages of 6 months and 4 years had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose as of Dec. 31, 2022.

During her presentation at Fortunes Brainstorm Health Conference, Clinton described the rise in vaccine hesitancy and growing rejection of vaccines as unfortunate, adding that she had tempered her words.

No one should die of polio, measles, or pneumonia  including in this country, where we also need people to vaccinate their kids, she added.

The Big Catch-up also aims to promote other vaccines that are not part of childhood immunization schedules.

According to the WHO:

In addition to catching-up on childhood immunization, intensified efforts are needed to introduce the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to adolescents to prevent cervical cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the burden is highest.

Aside from the WHO, CHAI, UNICEF and the Gates Foundation, other partners involved with The Big Catch-up include Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and Immunization Agenda 2030.

Commenting on the initiative, Chris Elias, M.D., MPH, president of global development at the Gates Foundation, said Vaccines are a public health triumph, adding that We must double down to reach all children with the vaccines they need to live healthier lives and ensure that future generations live free of preventable diseases like polio.

Elias participated in a March 2021 simulation of a global monkeypox outbreak that hypothetically would occur in May 2022  which turned out to be the month that a global outbreak of monkeypox actually began.

Other participants in the simulation included Dr. Margaret Hamburg, a former FDA commissioner on the board of Gavi, and George Fu Gao, Ph.D., former director-general of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, who is a member of the WHOs One Health High-Level Expert Panel that aims to promote the concept of One Health globally.

Dr. Seth Berkley, CEO of Gavi, also commented on The Big Catch-up:

We cannot allow a legacy of the pandemic to be the undoing of many years work protecting more and more children from deadly, preventable diseases. Global health partners, working with governments and communities, must do everything we can to protect the life of every child.

Berkley, who formerly was affiliated with the CDC and the Rockefeller Foundation, has previously praised efforts to combat misinformation on the internet and the WHOs decision to extend the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

The Gates Foundation, Gavi, UNICEF, the WHO and the Rockefeller Foundation are interconnected in a number of ways.

Gavi says it helps vaccinate almost half the worlds children against deadly and debilitating infectious diseases. It was established in 1999, with the Gates Foundation as one of its co-founders and one of its four permanent board members. Gavi maintains a core partnership with the WHO, UNICEF and the World Bank.

The Gates Foundation is particularly active in relation to malaria, issuing grants to firms conducting research involving genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes, and is connected to research studying a potential malaria vaccine using GM mosquitoes.

The Rockefeller Foundation also is a partner and board member  and donor  to Gavi.

In turn, CHAI, founded in 2002 and committed to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low-and-middle-income countries, says it works with partners to prevent and treat malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and cancer [and] accelerate the rollout of lifesaving vaccines.

Such partners include the Gates Foundation, with which it has collaborated on several projects dating back to 2011, as stated in CHAIs most recent annual report.

Four pages in CHAIs 2021 annual report are dedicated exclusively to vaccines, describing immunization as a powerful tool for saving lives and improving health outcomes globally, whilst outlining its activities in several countries.

For example, the report states that In 2021, we worked with Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, and Uganda to improve DTP3 [diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus] immunization.

Clinton also has a long history of collaborating with the WHO and has been active in the promotion of vaccines even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, as evidenced by the following 2018 tweet:

Free speech absolutist fraudster Elon Musk still does not allow Twitter links in Substack, so please click the image to be taken to the Tweet.

Clinton also participated in an April 10 podcast, A Conversation about Vaccination with Young Advocates, alongside Dr. Paul A. Offit, a member of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, co-editor of the Vaccines textbook and co-inventor of the RotaTeq rotavirus vaccine.

In this podcast, Clinton and Offit discussed challenges in closing the gap in adolescent vaccination and talk[ed] with teen advocates about their needs and challenges in helping adolescents advocate for their health.

In other instances, Clinton has been outspoken about alleged vaccine misinformation.

In an Aug. 9, 2021, tweet, Clinton wrote that vaccines save lives and described this as a controversial statement  in an era rife with disinformation.

And in an April 21, 2021, Voices for Vaccines vax talk, Clinton explained why she was working so hard on global health and tak[ing] a stand for vaccines.

In this same talk, Clinton referenced the so-called Disinformation Dozen who disseminate alleged vaccine misinformation. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., chairman on leave of Childrens Health Defense, was one of the dozen individuals named in this list.

Do NOT comply.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is encountering widespread flooding. The death toll has surpassed 200 and is now nearly 400, the local officials in the eastern part of the country confirmed.

Heavy rains have been pounding several parts of the country since last Thursday, triggering landslides and flooding in various parts of Congo.

DR Congo Flood Death Toll Approaches 400

As per a report by the Associated Press, one of the local authorities of the heavily battered area, Kalehe of South Kivu, spoke with the news outlet about the current situation.

Administrator Thomas Bakenge reveals that the flooding has killed nearly 400 lives. As of this writing, they have officially recovered 394 bodies. He notes that the searchers found some corpses floating in Lake Kivu.

AP News notes that more than the authorities have already buried more than 300 casualties amid the search. According to a youth political activist, Valet Chebujongo, four mass graves have buried roughly 170 bodies, noting that they did not have any coffins.

Heavy rains have been pounding several parts of the country since last week, causing rivers to burst their banks and severe flooding.

Read Also: NYC Mayor Reveals Plan to Relocate Migrants Outside City in Anticipation of Influx

Search in Congo Floods Continues

Although the death toll is fast approaching the 400 mark, the authorities are still searching for victims of the extreme flooding, BBC reports. To look for corpses amid the ongoing flooding, some people are digging through mud to find the bodies of their loved ones who have been missing since the heavy floods struck.

The flooding ended up submerging half of the buildings in mud. Meanwhile, the flash floods in the region swept away smaller wooden structures. International organizations, including the United Nations and the Red Cross, have already extended a helping hand to assist those affected by the floods in Central Africa.

Sad to say, DR Congo is one of the most poverty-stricken countries in the world, according to Aljazeera. The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has extended his condolences to the casualties of the widespread flooding in Congo and the Republic of Rwanda.

In his recent visit to Burundi, the UN Secretary-General highlighted that the recent flooding "is yet another illustration of accelerating climate change." It shows the "disastrous impact" of the climate crisis on "countries that have done nothing to contribute to global warming," Guterres says.

Aljazeera notes that climate experts have warned of heightened frequency and intensity of extreme weather as a consequence of climate change. The flooding in eastern Congo began three days ago. However, the death tolls continue to rise.

Related Article: World Population 2023: This Country Will Surpass China as the Most Populous Nation Next Year

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Sept passants tues par un chauffard dans le Texas

(Reuters) - Au moins sept personnes ont ete tuees et plusieurs autres blessees dimanche lorsqu'une voiture a fonce sur des pietons a Brownsville, au Texas, ont rapporte les chaines de television locales.

Un homme a ete arrete, a dit la presse.

L'accident s'est produit a 8h30, heure locale, pres du centre Ozanam, un refuge pour les migrants et les sans-abri, ont indique les chaines CBS 4 et NBC 23, citant la police de Brownsville.

(John Kruzel )
Yesterday, Allen, Texas, was torn apart by a senseless mass shooting at a shopping mall-one of far too many communities impacted by gun violence. Doug and I mourn for the eight adults and children who lost their lives, pray for those wounded, and send our gratitude to the first responders who ran toward danger.

As the President said, our administration will continue to support federal, state, and local law enforcement as they investigate.

READ NEXT: Statement from President Joe Biden on the Conflict in Sudan

While there is much we do not yet know about this attack, here is what we do know: all Americans deserve to be safe from gun violence. But they are not. Not because we do not know the solutions. Not because the American people are divided on this issue - even a majority of gun owners support sensible reforms.

President Biden signed the most significant gun safety legislation in 30 years and implemented important executive actions, but more must be done. Send a bill to President Biden that bans assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, implements universal background checks, and helps keep guns out of the hands of people who are a danger to themselves and others. We need action.

READ MORE: Virginia Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulently Ordering Cell Phones on Behalf of Her Non-Profit Employer and Reselling Them for Cash

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Jeffrey Spencer Shoulson selected as next dean of School of Arts and Sciences

Photo/courtesy, University of Connecticut Jeffrey Spencer Shoulson

Jeffrey Spencer Shoulson, a scholar of English and Jewish literature and current senior vice provost at the University of Connecticut, has been selected as the next dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Brandeis.

"Jeffrey Shoulson's exceptional leadership, scholarship, and commitment to collaboration make him the ideal candidate for this important role, said Brandeis president Ron Liebowitz. I am confident that he will advance our unique position in higher education and work successfully with faculty and staff from across the university to help us meet our high aspirations. I thank the search committee for their tireless work in finding the right person to lead the School of Arts and Sciences into the future."

Shoulson has served as senior vice provost for academic affairs at the University of Connecticut since 2020, where he supervised academic program development, review, assessment, and accreditation across all of the university's schools and colleges. Shoulson has also worked with academic units in development of entrepreneurial and interdisciplinary programs, managed curricular standards and adjudicated appeals, and administered the promotion, tenure, and reappointment processes across the institution.

As dean, Shoulson will serve as the chief academic and administrative officer of the School of Arts and Sciences, providing leadership in advancing the mission, operations, and service of the school by advocating for and executing its educational and research missions. He will be responsible for academic, development and administrative functions, and oversee faculty appointments, reappointments, tenure, and promotion processes. The dean also has administrative responsibility for graduate and undergraduate education and research functions in the School of Arts and Sciences, working in collaboration with the provost. He will report to provost Carol Fierke.

Jeffrey Shoulson's academic record and administrative experience are both extensive and impressive, Fierke said. I'm looking forward to working with him to further advance our mission of providing exceptional education, scholarship and research opportunities for our students and faculty across the humanities, arts, social science and science. I thank the search committee chairs, Harleen Singh and Isaac Krauss, staff support by Lorna Laurent, all of the members of the search committee and the entire community for working together to successfully identify and recruit Jeffrey Shoulson as dean.

Shoulsons appointment begins August 1. He succeeds Dorothy Hodgson, who served as dean since 2018 and will step down at the end of June. Joel Christensen, professor of classical studies, has agreed to serve as interim dean during the month of July. Shoulsons selection concludes a year-long search.

"Brandeis has a rich history rooted in values of intellectual curiosity and community engagement, Shoulson said. I am honored to be selected as the next dean of arts and sciences, and I am committed to upholding these values as we foster a vibrant academic community that supports our faculty and prepares our students to become engaged citizens of the world."

Before moving into the provost's office at UConn, Shoulson was director of the universitys Center for Judaic Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life, and was the Doris and Simon Konover Chair in Jewish Studies. He was professor of literatures, cultures, and languages, and professor of English, and had affiliations with the medieval studies program and the Middle East studies program. He was previously on the faculty at the University of Miami, where he also served as director of Judaic studies.

Shoulson has authored three books: "Fictions of Conversion: Jews, Christians, and Cultures of Change in Early Modern England" in 2013, "Hebraica Veritas? Christian Hebraists, Jews, and the Study of Judaism in Early Modern Europe" in 2004, and "Milton and the Rabbis: Hebraism, Hellenism, and Christianity" in 2001.

He received a PhD in English literature from Yale University in 1995, a master's degree in philosophy from the University of Cambridge in renaissance studies in 1990, and bachelor's degree in English literature from Princeton University in 1988.

Prior to his appointment as vice provost for academic affairs at UConn, Shoulson served as vice provost for academic operations from 2018 to 2020, and as vice provost for interdisciplinary affairs in 2017-18.
The Central Bank of Ireland has succeeded in its High Court application for provisional liquidators to be appointed to a Cork-based investment fund with some 180 million in client assets.

The regulator considered a petition for the winding up of Blackbee Investments Limited was necessary for protecting the interests of investors and for maintaining public confidence in the Irish financial market, the court heard.

Brian Kennedy, senior counsel for the bank, told the court on Monday afternoon the application was not a matter that is being taken lightly by the regulator and follows intensive supervisory engagement with Blackbee.

Over time the Central Bank developed significant concerns about the firm, particularly in relation to governance. It was also worried about the companys inability to maintain senior roles, its lack of a clear business strategy and its regulatory capital and liquidity planning, he said.

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The court heard the firm had about 1,700 retail clients (non-professional investors) and held client assets of some 180 million as of April 28th.

High Court President David Barniville was satisfied the bank put forward good and sound reasons for the provisional appointments to be made without the firm being notified of the application.

The judge noted Blackbees chief executive David OShea had consistently voiced his opposition to the appointment of provisional liquidators and wanted the firm to be notified of any petition brought.

However, the judge accepted the regulators contention there were serious risks associated with the petition becoming public knowledge prior to the appointments being made.

He made an order appointing Luke Charleton and Colin Farguharson of Ernst & Young as joint provisional liquidators and another suspending Mr OSheas powers as the companys sole director pending the full hearing of the petition.

The application for the winding up was made pursuant to the European Union (Markets in Financial Instruments) Regulations of 2017 and the Companies Act of 2014.

In seeking the orders, Mr Kennedy, with barrister Caren Geoghegan, told the court the investment firm has failed to comply with, and remains in breach of, its regulatory obligations. This is because Mr OShea, CEO and ultimate sole beneficial owner of Blackbee, is directing the business of the firm and it no longer has a non-executive director or chair of the board since the resignation of an officer last November.

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This is concerning from a supervisory perspective as investment firms are required to have at least two people directing the business of the company and at least one non-executive director to ensure effective governance and oversight, the court heard.

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Blackbee attempted to engage external consultants to carry out these functions on a short-term basis, but these have not been secured, Mr Kennedy said. He added that there an executive is acting as the firms chief financial officer on a temporary basis.

There were also two failed attempts to sell the firm and its share capital, with the latest deal falling through late last month, he said. Following these aborted transactions, the bank no longer believes there is any reasonable prospect of a sale of the business or its shares, he said.

The bank also does not have any confidence that Blackbee is capable of hiring and retaining experienced staff or professional firms to fill the vacant roles.

In a sworn statement to the court, Claire McGrade, head of the Central Banks Resolution and Crisis Management Division, said the company was in the process of winding down its business since opting to cease taking new clients from October 2020.

Although it does not currently appear to be insolvent from a balance sheet or cash flow perspective, she said, it is in a financially distressed position due to continued operating losses.

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She said the most recent capital and liquidity position, issued last month, indicates that, following the April 2023 termination of the proposed sale of the firm, Blackbee will likely be in breach of its regulatory capital requirements by August. The company has been unable to provide any credible evidence to the Central Bank that it has access to sufficient capital that will enable it to avoid such a breach, she added.

Business Quinn Insurance formally wound up 13 years after i... Read More

She said the bank believes it is necessary to seek the immediate appointment joint provisional liquidators as the company is likely to become inundated with urgent queries from clients seeking clarity leading to a real and material risk of an uncontrolled and disorderly collapse of the operations if the appointments are not made.

The company, she added, is currently failing to communicate appropriately with its clients and their brokers with respect to maturity defaults arising on certain alternative investments.

The provisional liquidators will be able to take steps to ensure client assets are properly safeguarded and to engage with the Central Bank, brokers and their clients, she said.

The bank acknowledges the serious implications for the investment firm of appointing the provisional liquidators, but it is of the view the move is nonetheless essential to mitigate the risk of damage to the interests of the investors and clients, she added.
Several winners including Jennifer Coolidge, Pedro Pascal and Joseph Quinn paid tribute to striking Hollywood writers during a muted, pre-recorded ceremony at the 2023 MTV Movie and TV Awards.

This years live event, which honours fan favourites on the big and small screens, was cancelled at the last minute amid the major industry strike.

Show bosses said they were pivoting away from a live show as they carefully navigate how best to deliver the fan first awards show we envisioned.

The writers strike  the first in 15 years  began last week after 11,500 members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) stopped working when their contract expired.

The union is seeking higher minimum pay, more writers per show and less exclusivity on single projects, among other demands  all conditions it says have been diminished during the content boom of the streaming era.

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The WGA said it had planned to picket the event on Sunday in Santa Monica, California, before the live show and red carpet event were scrapped.

Stars including Coolidge, Pascal and Quinn all voiced their support for those fighting for better working conditions in pre-recorded acceptance speeches during the show.

White Lotus star Coolidge said she stood side by side with those on strike as she accepted the comedic genius award, saying they were fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

This is your sign to re-watch @TheLastofUsHBO  #TheLastOfUs is your Best Show winner at the #MTVAwards! pic.twitter.com/7ufBiDCgxV  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

You know, almost all great comedy starts with great writers, she said.

As a proud member of SAG (Screen Actors Guild), I stand here before you tonight, side by side with my sisters and brothers from the WGA (Writers Guild of America), that are fighting right now, fighting for the rights of artists everywhere.

Pascal also acknowledged those fighting very hard for fair wages, as zombie-drama The Last Of Us, written by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, won best show.

The Mandalorian actor also won best hero and best duo, along with British co-star Bella Ramsey.

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Craig and Neil cant be here, Pascal said, as he cradled three golden popcorn trophies.

We are all  standing in solidarity with the WGA that is fighting very hard for fair wages. We thank you, we love you.

Quinn also paid tribute to striking writers as he accepted the award for breakthrough performance.

The votes are in! Joseph Quinn is the winner of Breakthrough Performance at the 2023 #MTVAwards  pic.twitter.com/cLFH7SnacW  Movie & TV Awards (@MTVAwards) May 8, 2023

The British actor was recognised for his role as Eddie Munson in the Netflix hit series Stranger Things.

I dont think that people would connect with a character like Eddie or others in the Stranger Things universe without compassionate, intelligent, quality writing, he said.

Being a writer is a hard job. It deserves respect.

If we respect each other, we can cultivate a kinder, more inclusive, more collaborative environment for everyone thatd be nice.

Elsewhere, the shows top prize  best movie  went to slasher movie Scream VI.

Writers Guild of America will picket the MTV Movie and TV Awards at 5pm PT on Sunday, May 7 at Barker Hanger in Los Angeles #WGASTRIKE  Writers Guild of America West (@WGAWest) May 5, 2023

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Tom Cruise was awarded best performance in a movie for his high-octane sequel Top Gun: Maverick, sending a message to fans from the cockpit of a plane.

This years winners all accepted their awards via video messages with flashback clips of moments and performances from previous ceremonies played in lieu of live segments.

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US actress Drew Barrymore had been scheduled to host the show, but pulled out in solidarity with those on strike  although she said she would return to the event in 2024.

Despite stepping down from hosting duties, Barrymore appeared in several pre-recorded sketches that parodied movies including Cocaine Bear and Barbie.

The Charlies Angels actress was also named the winner of the best host award for The Drew Barrymore Show.
A 52-year-old Dublin man who acted as a "conduit" in an "industrial-scale" Kinahan Cartel drugs and ammunition operation will be sentenced at the Special Criminal Court later this month.

Anthony Glynn pleaded guilty at the non-jury court earlier this year to having hundreds of rounds of various ammunition and 1.4 million in drugs for the Kinahans.

Glynn, of Fitzgibbon Court, Dublin 1, had been charged that he "did commit a serious offence for the benefit of a criminal organisation, namely the possession of one or more controlled drugs, to wit cocaine and cannabis, for the purpose of selling or otherwise supplying the said controlled drugs" within the State, on dates between January 25th, 2017, and April 12th, 2017, both dates inclusive.

He also pleaded guilty to committing a serious offence for the benefit of a criminal organisation by possessing ammunition, to wit 199 rounds of .44 Remington Magnum calibre, 76 rounds of .357 Magnum calibre, 38 rounds of .45 ACP calibre and 22 rounds of .22 LR calibre ammunition - 335 rounds in total - in circumstances as to give rise to a reasonable inference that the said ammunition was not required for a lawful purpose on the same dates.

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Both offences are contrary to Section 73 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 as amended by Section 10 of the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009.

On Monday, Detective Garda Sergeant Tony Kennedy told Dominic McGinn SC, for the State, that the criminal organisation in question was the Kinahan organised crime group.

Det Sgt Kennedy said that on foot of Garda information, a search warrant had been carried out at a business premises at Mount Dillon Business Park in Dublin 5 in March 2017.

Det Sgt Kennedy said crates containing "large quantities" of cannabis, cannabis resin and cocaine were discovered, and a man, Emmet Fogarty, was arrested on site and charged.

Fogarty, of Brookhaven Drive, Blanchardstown, was deemed to be "responsible" for the unit at the business park. Fogarty was 47-years-old when he was jailed for five years after pleading guilty to possession of the drugs and ammunition in November 2018.

Follow-up search

A follow-up search to the lock-up carried out at a residential address in Dublin in April 2017 saw gardai seize two Blackberry phones on which a number attributed to Glynn's brother, Douglas, was discovered.

At Douglas Glynn's sentence hearing, Det Sgt Jonathan O'Leary said technological breakthroughs in cracking phone encryption allowed gardai to fully access the contents of the phone in February 2021.

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The detective said the technology was able to identify a person saved under the codename 'Oscar' on the phone as Douglas Glynn.

In March, Douglas Glynn (38), last of Fitzgibbon Court, Dublin 1, was sentenced to eight years for conspiracy to commit a serious offence, namely the possession of 335 rounds of ammunition and conspiracy to possess drugs.

In sentencing Douglas Glynn, Mr Justice Tony Hunt said the operation had been on an "industrial scale" and described the accused as a "trusted manager" for the Kinahans over others involved who were "dispensable cannon fodder".

Douglas Glynn is also serving a 6.5-year jail sentence imposed in February 2022 for his involvement in a foiled plot to murder Kinahan cartel target James 'Mago' Gately, during which Glynn placed a tracker on the rival Hutch member's car.

Det Sgt Kennedy told Mr McGinn on Monday that the cannabis discovered at the lock-up was valued at 39,902, while the resin was valued at 10,894 and the cocaine was found to be worth 1,422,694 - totalling 1,473,490.

Det Sgt Kennedy said an analysis of the Blackberry phones had been carried out "as far as possible" in 2017 but a breakthrough in phone-encryption technology saw the phones analysed again in February 2021.

The detective said a series of messages were found to be related to the March 2017 search of the lock-up, including the amount of drugs involved and the use of pallets.

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Mr McGinn said the description of one crate found in a message "mirrored exactly" a crate found in the search and another message regarding the amount of drugs involved also matched what gardai discovered.

Det Sgt Kennedy said the gang used pseudonyms to conceal their identities with Anthony Glynn going by the moniker 'LED' who received the messages from Douglas 'Oscar' Glynn.

Codewords

The detective said slang terms for drugs and ammunition were also used with "seeds" being a code for ammunition, and added that Douglas Glynn's messages also related to the "stock-taking" of the premises.

The three-judge court has previously heard that other codewords were 'slate of pollen' for cannabis resin, 'tools' for firearms and 'candy', which referred to cash.

Det Sgt Kennedy said Anthony Glynn had been co-operative and agreed he was "very easy to deal with", had pleaded guilty and had no relevant previous convictions.

Michael Bowman SC, for Anthony Glynn, said his client's involvement "was that he was positioned as a conduit for information between Douglas Glynn and then this was forwarded to Emmet Fogarty, who was the man on the ground".

"He [Anthony Glynn] was an intermediary communicating messages," Mr Bowman said, adding that he accepted the offending was of "serious nature".

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Mr Bowman said his client "never had any serious difficulty with gardai" and that he was a father of four children, one of whom has health issues.

Mr Bowman said Anthony Glynn was "integral" to his children's lives, was a "family-centric man with a complete employment history" but who lost his job as a porter in the Mater hospital due to the charges before the court.

The barrister said Anthony Glynn had been "reluctant" to point the finger at his brother, who he was "seeking to protect", adding that the defendant's parents were in their 70s and in poor health. Mr Bowman said Anthony Glynn had not come to the attention of gardai since being charged, had complied with all of his bail conditions and had a number of "impressive" testimonials in his favour.

The barrister said his client did not have sole use of the phone and that the direction of messages had flowed from Douglas Glynn.

Mr Bowman added his client had unusual personal circumstances given his age, previous record and family circumstances.

"Mr Glynn comes before the court in his 50s, which is not the demographic of most people who first appear before this court," Mr Bowman said.

Ireland Gerard Hutch seeks legal costs from State after mu... Read More

"Against that, though, he ought to have known better, after achieving a certain amount of maturity," Mr Justice Hunt noted.

Mr Hunt said Anthony Glynn had crossed the threshold when it came to a custodial sentence and that the court "has to penalise support of organisations like that".

Mr McGinn told Mr Justice Hunt that the maximum punishment for each of the two offences was 15 years' imprisonment.

Mr Justice Hunt said the court would sentence Anthony Glynn on May 19th.
The High Court has directed that an application for permission to bring a challenge over the ethics watchdog's refusal to investigate a claim that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar leaked a draft GP contract should be heard on notice to both the watchdog and Mr Varadkars solicitors.

The challenge against the Standards in Public Office Commission (Sipo) is being brought by People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy.

Mr Murphy initiated the challenge last February and it was adjourned until last month when Mr Justice Charles Meenan said he first wanted certain legal points clarified before he permitted Mr Murphy to pursue his challenge.

The judge, in doing so, pointed to the preliminary nature of Sipos decision not to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the alleged matter in April 2019.

There is a considerable amount of case law saying that usual features of fair procedure rules do not apply to the same extent at a preliminary stage, he said.

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Among Mr Murphy's grounds of challenge is a claim his right to fair procedures and natural and constitutional justice was breached by Sipos decision. He further seeks an order remitting the matter back to Sipo for reconsideration.

Mr Murphy made a complaint to Sipo in November 2020 that Mr Varadkar, then Tanaiste, provided a copy of the confidential proposed GP's contract agreement in April 2019 to Dr Maitiu O Tuathail, president of the National Association of General Practitioners (NAGP).

The agreement had been negotiated between the Department of Health, the HSE, and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO). Dr O Tuathails NAGP is a rival of the IMO and was not party to the negotiations.

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Mr Murphy says the document was confidential and had not been released publicly.

Mr Varadkar, following publicity about the alleged leak, denied it was confidential by the time he passed it to Dr O'Tuathail.

The case returned before the judge on Monday, when he directed that the hearing of the application for leave to bring the challenge be heard on notice to Sipo and that Mr Varadkar's solicitors should also be served with the papers.

The judge put the case in for mention again next month.
Eight Americans - including children - were killed yesterday in the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation. Jill and I are praying for their families and for others critically injured, and we are grateful to the first responders who acted quickly and courageously to save lives.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement are working closely together to investigate this attack and I have directed federal agencies to provide all needed support.

READ NEXT: Statement from President Joe Biden on the Conflict in Sudan

Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts. More than 14,000 of our fellow citizens have lost their lives, credible estimates show. The leading cause of death for American kids is gun violence.

Since I signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law and took two dozen executive actions to stem the tide of gun violence, we have made some progress. States are banning assault weapons, expanding red flag laws and more - but it's not enough. We need more action faster to save lives.

Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables. Republican Members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug. Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough.

Once again, I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe.

READ MORE: Virginia Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fraudulently Ordering Cell Phones on Behalf of Her Non-Profit Employer and Reselling Them for Cash

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has defended comments he made in relation to China, which the Chinese embassy criticised as misleading.

Speaking during a keynote address to the Royal Irish Academy International Affairs Conference last week, Mr Martin spoke about the value of Irelands relationship with China while also warning that it should be monitored.

The Tanaiste told the conference  entitled Human (In)Security in an Unsettled World  that Ireland must be clear-eyed about Chinas objectives, and said that Irelands interests and values differ from those of China.

After highlighting common goals, Mr Martin said we are not naive, and said the private sector and academia need to assess their relationship with China and areas where they may need to de-risk.

He also said we do not intend to be silent when we see evidence of core principles being undermined.

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While also issuing those warnings, the Tanaiste emphasised the 34.5 billion two-way trading relationship in 2021.

He said Irelands engagement with China on global issues increased during the pandemic years, largely due to Irelands two-year tenure on the UN Security Council.

We were most successful in finding solutions when we were frank in our views  and clear with each other  about where we were willing to compromise, and where we were not, he said.

The Chinese embassy in Ireland responded by acknowledging the positive comments, but criticised other parts of the address as exaggerated and misleading.

Responding to Mr Martins calls that China has not acknowledged that Russia started the war, and his call for China to push for its end, the embassy said China always stands on the side of peace.

It also said that China would not sit idly by, nor would it add oil to the fire, still less exploit the situation for self gains.

Embassy Spokesperson on Irish Politicians Remarks on Chinahttps://t.co/dSE6MKX8uL pic.twitter.com/a6ZOOoGmEz  Chinese Embassy in Ireland (@ChinaEmbIreland) May 4, 2023

Speaking to reporters in Cork on Monday, Mr Martin said that his speech was a very measured and balanced presentation.

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He said: in respect of our relationship with China and the relationship with the European Union and China into the future, to be clear-eyed about it, to be clear on the importance of maintaining strong economic, social and cultural ties with China, but also then to be in a position to look at everything through the prism of an international rules-based order which also involves raising and articulating issues pertaining to personal freedoms and human rights, also.

Mr Martin was also asked about the comments by the Russian embassy in response to the death of an Irishman in Ukraine.

Again, my own perspective on that at the time was there was a family mourning and a family grieving the loss of their son and I didnt want to say anything at that time to cause any additional trauma for the family, the Foreign Affairs minister said.

Its terrible for them and I think the Russian ambassador in my view shouldnt have commented.

I think, as we have said, his comments were a distortion, were unacceptable and in my view were not reflective of either my position or the countrys position more generally.

Despite those criticisms, Mr Martin downplayed the presence of four Russian ships in Irish waters last week.

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He said: I think this is ongoing in terms of over the years and indeed in more recent times, various vessels and ships from Russia indeed can enter into the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Its carefully monitored by Ireland and indeed by others, and thats an ongoing scenario where people track whats happening within international waters and indeed within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone which is quite large in itself.

So I dont see it as a threat, its something that were conscious of, and we keep a very close eye on.
An Bord Pleanala has told the High Court it is conceding in a challenge to permission granted to a Russian-controlled alumina business for increased disposal capacity at its refinery in Co Limerick.

The concession came in a court action brought by Futureproof Clare over the August 2022 approval for the deposition of an additional eight million cubic metres of bauxite residue and 22,500 cubic metres of salt cake- which is a mix of aluminium oxides, aluminium nitrides, metal and salts - at a 222-hectare site on Aughinish Island.

Aughinish Alumina Limited employs more than 400 staff at the Limerick alumina refinery, which is the largest of its kind in the EU. The alumina, extracted from imported red earth ore called bauxite, is shipped to France and Sweden for smelting to make aluminium.

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Kremlin-linked Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska is a key shareholder in the Limerick plant.

An Bord Pleanalas counsel, barrister Aoife Carroll, told Mr Justice David Holland on Monday that her client would not be defending against the judicial review challenge.

The judge noted the concession and adjourned the case to a date later this month for it to be mentioned.

Futureproof Clare, represented in its action by FP Logue solicitor Eoin Brady, based its case on a number of domestic and EU law grounds.

It is understood the planning board, in conceding, accepted it did not consider a submission made to it by the environmental and heritage non-governmental group An Taisce when assessing the application for planning permission.

An Taisce, which receives State funding, is a prescribed body under planning legislation, meaning it may be referred planning applications that relate to the built or natural heritage.

Ireland Gerard Hutch seeks legal costs from State after mu... Read More

The proceedings were travelling alongside a case brought by Limerick-based Environmental Trust Ireland, which challenged the same planning permission.

The permission given to Aughinish also allowed for the construction of rock-fill embankments, with the disposal area to reduce in footprint as it increases in height.

Futureproof Clare claimed the plant, commissioned in 1983, has grown from producing 800,000 tonnes of alumina per year to 1.95 million tonnes annually.

In its High Court casLimerie, the group expressed concern about the proposed developments use of resources, particularly water.
A man accused of taking part in a vigilante attack on security men at a repossessed farm in Co. Roscommon told gardai that he organised people to go to the house to take back the house peacefully.

Paul Beirne (56) of Croghan, Boyle, Co Roscommon told gardai in December 2018 that on the night of December 16th he drove a group of around 30 men to a repossessed rural property at Falsk, Co Roscommon and broke the front door down with a sledgehammer. He said things got out of hand, but he didn't know how.

It's the State's case that around 5am on December 16th, 2018, a group of approximately 30 men, some armed and some wearing balaclavas, arrived at the farmhouse just outside Strokestown, Co Roscommon and attacked four of the security guards present.

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Patrick Sweeney (44) of High Cairn, Ramelton, Co Donegal; Martin O'Toole (58) of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, Co Mayo; Beirne and David Lawlor (43) of Bailis Downs, Navan, have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Each man is separately charged with false imprisonment of and assault causing harm to four security personnel at Falsk on December 16th, 2018, aggravated burglary, arson of a car and three vans, criminal damage to a door of the house, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch from one security guard, finally, causing unnecessary suffering to an animal by causing or permitting an animal to be struck on the head.

Final garda interview

On Monday, the jury heard the details of the final of six garda interviews of Mr Beirne. During the first half of the interview the defendant said he didn't know who would have used his mobile phone to make a series of phone calls between 3am and 9am on the morning of December 16th, 2018, including a call to his wife.

The defendant already told gardai in his early interviews that he was asleep at home on the night of December 15th, 2018, and he said his wife could corroborate this. He said he parked his cattle lorry before going to bed, and the vehicle was there when he woke on the morning of December 16th, 2018.

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In his final interview, Mr Beirne he didn't know who was driving his cattle lorry when, according to Tachograph readings, the lorry was driven to the property at Falsk at around 5am where it allegedly remained for 14 minutes. He said he might have left the keys in the lorry.

Asked then was there a shotgun present at the incident in Falsk the defendant replied no and Detective Sergeant Martin Geraghty asked the Mr Bierne were you there? Mr Bierne replied: I was there, yeah, no shotgun...categorically no shotgun.

Asked did anyone else have a firearm he said no firearm, adding there was no shotgun, that's all I'm saying.

He then admitted that he had driven the cattle lorry, that he collected around 30 other men in it and they had gone to Falsk. He admitted he had made the phone-calls from his phone in the early hours of the morning.

He said some of these calls were to check up on yer man, Anthony McCann, the previous owner of the house who had been evicted five days earlier, to see if he was okay. He agreed that the other calls were in connection to organising people to go to Falsk to take back the house peacefully.

I cannot describe it. It just went out of hand altogether. It just went out of control, he said.

Asked how control was lost, Mr Beirne said: I don't know I haven't a clue, it just got out of hand. Asked if there was someone in your group who inflamed things, he said no.

Ireland 'Conduit' for Kinahan 'industrial-scale' drugs and... Read More

He said he didn't assault anyone on the night but he did cause damage to the front door by driving it through with a sledgehammer.

Asked who else was there he told gardai: I couldn't tell you. He said at around 5.20am he took people away in his lorry.

He agreed with gardai that he had organised it and that it had taken on a life of its own.

The prosecution evidence concluded on Monday afternoon. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter in the absence of the jury until Thursday morning, when the jury is due to return.
Anti-monarchy campaigners arrested ahead of the Kings coronation are considering legal action against the Metropolitan Police after being told no charges will be brought against them

Republic chief executive Graham Smith also called on Monday for a full inquiry into who authorised the arrests during the disgraceful episode.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed the Met over the dozens of arrests of protesters amid concerns they were cracking down on dissent on Saturday at the behest of politicians.

The force made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

But Mr Smith said the eight protesters from Republic detained in London have all been told no charges will be brought against them.

He told the PA news agency: The speed with which they did this demonstrates they were very quickly aware they had made a very serious error of judgment and there will be action taken again.

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Im obviously relieved they dropped it so quickly but very angry they even went down this road, robbing people of their liberty for absolutely no reason.

There was no evidence of any ability or intent to commit any offence and they simply decided to arrest us and that is outrageous.

We have just been told that the police will be taking no further action. This has been a disgraceful episode and we will be speaking to lawyers about taking legal action. I also expect a full inquiry into why they repeatedly lied to us and who authorised the arrests.  Graham Smith   (@GrahamSmith_) May 8, 2023

Scotland Yard has been asked about the result of the Republic arrests.
A fire in a gold mine in southern Peru has killed at least 27 workers, according to the mining company.

The Yanaquihua mining company said the victims were working an overnight shift for a contractor at the Sermigold mine in the Arequipa region. A statement from the company said 175 workers had been rescued.

Government officials said the cause of the incident was under investigation with early reports saying preliminary investigations indicated an explosion might have been set off by a short circuit in a part of the mine about 100 metres below the surface.



Relatives of trapped miners wait outside the Sermigold mine in Arequipa, Peru (Fernando Mojito/AP)

The Public Ministry of Arequipas Fiscal District said investigators were working to clarify what happened.

Relatives of the victims were brought by buses to the mine in Yanaquihua where some sat at the entrance to the mine to wait for the bodies of their loved ones.

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Marcelina Aguirre said her husband was among the dead and had told her there were risks at the mine.

We are very worried, very sad we are, to lose a husband, leaving two abandoned children, she said.
A jury in Manhattan federal court is set to hear closing arguments on Monday from lawyers representing former US president Donald Trump and writer E. Jean Carroll in her civil lawsuit accusing him of raping her in the 1990s and later defaming her.

Trump's attorney, Joseph Tacopina, told US District Judge Lewis Kaplan last Thursday that his client waived his right to testify in the trial and also opted not to present a defence in the case, gambling that jurors will find that Carroll had failed to make a persuasive case.

Trump has so far not attended the trial, which began on April 25th, but told reporters in Doonbeg, Co Clare last Thursday that he "probably" would attend. Kaplan has scheduled closing arguments for Monday, with jurors due to begin deliberations after that.

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Carroll (79) filed her lawsuit last year against Trump (76), claiming he raped her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in 1995 or 1996, and then defamed her by denying it happened. The former Elle magazine advice columnist is seeking unspecified monetary damages.

Trump, who served as US president from 2017 to 2021 and is the current frontrunner for the Republican US presidential nomination in 2024, has said Carroll made up the allegation to drive sales of her 2019 memoir.

Her defamation claim concerns an October 2022 post on Trump's Truth Social platform in which he called her allegations a "complete con job" and "a Hoax and a lie".

Carroll said during three days of testimony and cross-examination that during the alleged attack, Trump slammed her against the wall, put his fingers into her vagina and then inserted his penis.

Two of Carroll's longtime friends testified that she told them about the attack shortly after it occurred and said they believed her. Jurors also heard from two other women who said Trump sexually assaulted them in separate alleged incidents decades ago. Trump denies those claims as well.

In a video deposition played for the jury last Wednesday, Trump denied raping Carroll.

"It's the most ridiculous, disgusting story," Trump said in the video, hunched over a conference table as Carroll's lawyers presented documents to him. "It's just made up." -Reuters
The European Union said it had cancelled a diplomatic reception to prevent a radical ultranationalist Israeli minister from attending.

The act of protest by the EUs delegation to Israel against a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, the most religious and ultranationalist in the countrys history, could cause a diplomatic spat between Israel and the EU.

Relations have already been strained over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power faction, serves as the national security minister and was assigned to represent the Israeli government at the EUs Europe Day event on Tuesday.





Foreign minister Eli Cohen said on Sunday in a Kan radio interview that Mr Ben-Gvir had been assigned by the government secretary to attend not as a representative of the Jewish Power party  but to represent the government of Israel.

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The EU said it decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for.

The remainder of the public event would take place as scheduled.

Mr Ben-Gvir is a former far-right activist and hard-line West Bank settler who has been convicted of incitement and support for a Jewish terror group.





As the governments representative at the Europe Day event, Mr Ben-Gvir would have addressed attendees.

Its a shame that the EU, which pretends to represent democratic values and multiculturalism, behaves with undiplomatic gagging, Mr Ben-Gvir said.

Mr Netanyahu returned to office in December at the head of a coalition that includes ultra-Orthodox parties and religious ultranationalists, including Mr Ben-Gvirs small Jewish Power faction.

The government has put expansion of West Bank settlements as a top priority.

The EU, along with most of the international community, considers Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem illegal under international law and obstacles to peace with the Palestinians.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for a future independent state.
Officials are investigating whether the man believed to have killed eight people at a shopping centre in Dallas had an interest in white supremacist ideology, according to a law enforcement officer.

Marcelo Garcia, 33, was shot dead by a police officer near the suburban Allen Premier Outlets after the shootings on Saturday.

The law enforcement official told The Associated Press federal agents had been reviewing social media accounts and believed Garcia had expressed an interest in neo-Nazi views and had a patch on his chest reading RWDS  an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad which is popular among extremists and white supremacy groups.

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as suspected of killing eight people a day after the attack.



Sam Morin, 17, right, and Briason Foley, 15, hold protest signs outside a prayer vigil after the shooting in Allen, Texas (LM Otero/AP)

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Allen Police chief Brian Harvey declined on Sunday evening to answer questions, saying: We actually dont have a lot.

Further law enforcement officials said investigators had searched a home connected to the suspect and a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying where they found multiple weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Seven people were wounded in the attack and remained in hospital on Sunday, three in critical condition.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said the assailant wore tactical gear and fired an AR-15-style weapon.

He urged Congress to enact tighter restrictions on firearms and ammunition.

Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts, said Mr Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

Republicans in Congress, he said, cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug.





Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time.



Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar.



We need more action, faster to save lives.  President Biden (@POTUS) May 7, 2023

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The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the US which has seen an average of about one mass killing per week.

On April 18, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbour asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

Allen, about 25 miles north of downtown Dallas, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth areas diverse suburbs and saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major US metro area, according to US Census figures.

Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23.

Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.
New laws in the UK giving police greater powers to detain protesters must be repealed, an anti-monarchy campaigner has demanded after his arrest alongside other demonstrators at the coronation.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith dismissed as disgraceful suggestions that the dozens of arrests were needed to limit disruption to people wanting to enjoy the celebrations.

London police made 64 arrests on King Charless coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

Mr Smith raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

Protesters were arrested ahead of the coronation on Saturday. Photo: Labour for a Republic/PA.

England's culture secretary Lucy Frazer defended the police as having got the balance right and said arrests were necessary during the international event on the world stage.

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But Mr Smith told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Thats a disgraceful suggestion and quite frankly this is a political issue and therefore obviously its going to face protest.

You cannot say that they have to enjoy a party and therefore other people should be arrested.

He said he was arrested on Saturday unloading placards on the suspicion of being equipped to lock-on to an object or building, which the Public Order Act made a jailable offence.

Mr Smith denies this was his intention and believes the Met had every intention of arresting them and used some unfeasible straps as a pretext.

The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest, he said.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and its my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

I understand the Labour Party said they wouldnt repeal this law, which is pretty disgraceful if true, this law needs to be repealed.

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Labour frontbencher Andrew Gwynne said the Act gave disproportionate powers to the police but declined to commit the party to repealing it if it enters government.

Instead the shadow public health minister told Sky News: I think the next Labour government will look very carefully at this legislation.

Mr Gwynne defended the right to protest and suggested revellers supporting the coronation should have drowned out the dissent.

That wouldve been the appropriate approach to drown out those that wanted to protest rather than maybe heavy-handed practice that some have suggested may have taken place, he said.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting impartially on the powers they have.

Protesting can take place in this country but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.

Westminster City Council has raised concerns that womens safety volunteers were among those arrested after rape alarms were seized.

Police said it had received intelligence that people were planning to use the devices to disrupt the procession.

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Caroline Russell said the London Assemblys Police and Crime Committee that she chairs will be questioning the Met over the worrying arrests.

The Green politician told Today: It felt like for someone who was trying to protest, and trying to do it by the book, it was very difficult to understand what the rules were.

It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because theyd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms. It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Mets safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

World London police make 64 arrests and charge four susp... Read More

In total the Met made 64 arrests during the coronation day.

Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drugs possession.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has demanded clarity from the forces leaders on the arrests.
British prime minister Rishi Sunak has backed London's Metropolitan Police amid accusations that the arrests of protesters were a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish dissent during the coronation of Britain's King Charles III.

On Monday, Mr Sunak insisted officers act independently of government based on what they think is best after claims they were cracking down at the behest of politicians.

Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchy Republic campaign group who was detained on Saturday, accused Scotland Yard of having every intention of arresting demonstrators.

The force made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

Crowds line The Mall after the coronation ceremony in central London (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Mr Sunak backed the forces efforts during the dazzling spectacle, after volunteering at a lunch club during the national Big Help Out drive on the UK's coronation bank holiday.

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The police are operationally independent of government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best, he told broadcasters in Hertfordshire.

Actually Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely, that was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

Mr Smith raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest, including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

Britain's culture secretary Lucy Frazer had defended the Met as having got the balance right and said arrests were necessary during the international event on the world stage.

But Mr Smith told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Thats a disgraceful suggestion and quite frankly this is a political issue and therefore obviously its going to face protest.

You cannot say that they have to enjoy a party and therefore other people should be arrested.

He said he was arrested on Saturday unloading placards on the suspicion of being equipped to lock-on to an object or building, which the Public Order Act made a jailable offence.

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Mr Smith denies this was his intention and believes the Met had lied about their plans, had every intention of arresting them and used some unfeasible straps as a pretext.

The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest, he said.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and its my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

I understand the Labour Party said they wouldnt repeal this law, which is pretty disgraceful if true, this law needs to be repealed.

Labour frontbencher Andrew Gwynne said the Act gave disproportionate powers to the police but the party was not committing the party to repealing it if it enters government.

Instead, the shadow public health minister told Sky News: I think the next Labour government will look very carefully at this legislation.

Mr Gwynne defended the right to protest and suggested revellers supporting the coronation should have drowned out the dissent.

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That wouldve been the appropriate approach, to drown out those that wanted to protest rather than maybe heavy-handed practice that some have suggested may have taken place, he said.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country, but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.

Westminster City Council has raised concerns that womens safety volunteers were among those arrested after rape alarms were seized.

The Met said it had received intelligence that people were planning to use the devices to disrupt the procession.

Caroline Russell said the London Assemblys Police and Crime Committee that she chairs will be questioning the Met over the worrying arrests.

The Green politician told Today: It felt like for someone who was trying to protest, and trying to do it by the book, it was very difficult to understand what the rules were.

It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because theyd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms. It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Mets safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

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In total the Met made 64 arrests during the coronation day.

Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drug possession.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has demanded clarity from the forces leaders on the arrests.
China, Pakistan committed to building closer community with shared future: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 13:26, May 08, 2023

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari attend a joint press conference after the fourth round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad, Pakistan, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

ISLAMABAD, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Saturday that China and Pakistan, as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, are committed to building a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.

At a joint press conference after the fourth round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Qin said that China appreciates Pakistan's political support on issues relating to China's core interests and major concerns.

China will, as always, continue to support Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity, finding a development path suited to its own national conditions, and playing its due role in global and regional affairs, Qin said.

The two foreign ministers agreed that their countries, in the post-pandemic era, will resume communication at all levels as well as consultation through mechanisms, fully implement the important consensuses reached by leaders of the two countries, and speed up China-Pakistan all-round cooperation.

During the meeting, the two sides pledged to accelerate the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects and sound planning and operation in industrial cooperation, and extend the frontier of fields including agriculture, technology and new energy, so as to help Pakistan achieve higher-quality and sustainable development.

Noting that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the launch of CPEC, the Chinese foreign minister underlined its high-quality development.

Qin said that under the joint efforts of both countries, CPEC has become a model of Belt and Road cooperation, bringing about significant improvement in Pakistan's infrastructure, and tangible economic and social benefits from early harvest projects.

He pointed out that the mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Pakistan aims to help Pakistan develop its economy and improve people's livelihood.

"Some forces have fabricated the lie that China is creating a debt trap in Pakistan. I suggest our media friends ask those people what they have done for Pakistan's development and what real money they have invested in the country. I believe the people of Pakistan don't need high-sounding rhetoric, but real help," Qin said.

He stressed that stability is a prerequisite for development and security is the foundation of prosperity. China hopes that all political forces in Pakistan will build consensus, maintain stability, respond more effectively to internal and external challenges, focus on economic development and improving people's livelihood, and push the country onto the fast track of development and revitalization.

The two sides agreed to track down and severely punish the culprits in Chinese-targeted terrorist attacks, further deepen security and anti-terrorism cooperation, and enhance collaboration in regional anti-terrorism affairs.

They also agreed that they will work for Pakistan taking the lead in the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and other major initiatives, strengthen coordination and collaboration at the multilateral level, and oppose Cold War mentality, zero-sum game and bloc confrontation.

In addition, the two countries called for resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, safeguarding international fairness and justice, promoting the cause of world peace and development, and jointly building a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
(Photo : Jung Yeon-Je - Pool/Getty Images)

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visits Seoul to meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and address the growing North Korea threat.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visits Seoul to conduct bilateral talks with South Korea

The visit comes amid the growing North Korea threat related to nuclear weapons testing

The meeting comes after a 12-year hiatus of the two Asian leaders visiting each other's country

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited South Korea to bolster relations between the two countries amid the growing North Korea threat.

The visit comes after a 12-year hiatus since the two Asian leaders have visited each other's country. The discussions, which focus on bilateral talks in two months, have broken the stalemate as Tokyo and Seoul try to address relations.

Japan, South Korea Bolster International Relations

On Sunday, Kishida met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul, responding to the latter's visit to Tokyo last March. The two visits suggest the revival of the two nations' "shuttle diplomacy" to hold negotiations and address various issues that have complicated their relations, as per the Washington Post.

Seoul and Tokyo have spent years experiencing friction in international ties, and now the two countries are trying to work more closely with each other and the United States. They aim to counter the looming geopolitical threats of China's economic and military rise and North Korea's nuclear objectives.

In his opening remarks, Yoon said that the currents of good change are challenging to create initially. However, he said that they often become the new trend once they are there. The South Korean president said that the relations between Seoul and Tokyo were now at that point.

The South Korean president has been actively pursuing rapprochement with Japan as a crucial part of his foreign policy agenda. In March, he made a landmark proposal to resolve a major obstacle related to wartime labor compensation issues that hounded their diplomacy.

Before Kishida arrived in Seoul, many South Korean residents were wary of how the Japanese prime minister would address Tokyo's brutal colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula in the early 20th century, according to the New York Times.

Read Also: UN Nuclear Watchdog Warns of 'Very Real' Dangers at Ukraine's Largest Power Plant

Addressing The North Korea Threat

The Japanese prime minister said that he stood by previous statements made by some of his predecessors where they expressed remorse and apologies. However, that was as far as he approached the issue and merely said that his "heart ached" at the thought of Koreans suffering.

Despite falling short of what many South Korean residents and lawmakers wanted, Yoon said that he would not dwell on seeking an apology from his Japanese counterpart. He argued that it was not something that they could unilaterally demand, adding that it is something that Tokyo should naturally express.

Furthermore, a senior official from Yoon's office said that the Japanese prime minister's remarks were not pre-arranged. The South Korean president thanked Kishida for "showing his sincere position even though there was no such request."

The two Asian leaders' pledge to bolster regional cooperation was a welcome incident for the United States government. Yoon added that the two countries working together would benefit not only the common intSeoul and Tokyo's common interests but alsond prosperity, said Reuters.

Related Article: Arab League Readmits Syria After 12-Year Suspension

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German police have arrested a cardiology specialist suspended from Berlin's Charite Hospital on suspicion of murder, police and prosecutors said in a statement on Monday.

The 55-year-old is suspected of having knowingly administered high doses of a sedative to two seriously ill patients in intensive care who died as a result, according to the statement.

The cardiologist was suspended from Charite in August 2022.

Prosecutors initiated an investigation at that time, but an arrest warrant could only be issued upon receipt of a medical report showing that the high doses of sedative had not been medically justifiable, police and prosecutors said.

There were a total of four suspicious deaths involving the cardiologist, but only in two cases was it beyond doubt that the medication administered had been unjustifiable, they added.

The suspect will appear before a Berlin magistrate later on Monday. -Reuters

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Billionaire Guo Guangchang was sipping baijiu when he decided to kick off a $US2 billion ($3 billion) sale, his biggest in recent years.

His choice of liquor  from Shede Spirits Co., a brand under his Fosun International portfolio  was particularly momentous: she de means let go in Chinese.

Billionaire Guo Guangchang has seen his fortune jump on the back of Fosuns turnaround. Credit: Bloomberg

Pummelled by Chinas credit crisis and a 95 per cent profit plunge last year, Fosun has offloaded some $US4.8 billion of assets over the past year, including the sale of its holding in the parent of Nanjing Iron & Steel Co. that was renegotiated this month. And the process is far from over: The conglomerate is in search of buyers for billions of dollars of assets ranging from European financial businesses to an Indian pharma firm.

Disposals on such a scale can be a sign that a company is in a death spiral. But Guos pragmatism in parting with once-prized companies seems to be working. Fosuns shares and bonds have rebounded from their September lows, with the conglomerate looking less likely to default, an outcome that once seemed inevitable.
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Eating outComing soon Hidden for 20 years, one of Melbournes grandest rooms will become Reine brasserie from the Nomad team The former stock exchanges ornate Cathedral Room is being transformed into a French restaurant with an eight-seat secret bar. Plus coming soon in the same complex: a five-star dive bar by Maurice Terzini. Dani Valent May 9, 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

The two-city team that brought Nomad restaurants to Melbourne and Sydney is writing a new chapter in the history of Marvellous Melbourne, opening French brasserie Reine in the iconic 1891 gothic revival building at 380 Collins Street. When the Nomad teams project opens in August, the 150-seat restaurant will inhabit the elaborate Cathedral Room, emblematic of Melbournes 19th-century gold-fuelled wealth and prestige. Nomad co-owners Rebecca and Al Yazbek, executive chef Jacqueline Challinor and head chef Brendan Katich (Nomad Melbourne) in the Cathedral Room. Samantha Schultz Heart-stoppingly grand, the site was once the main trading floor of the Melbourne Stock Exchange. In disrepair after lying unused for the past 20 years, its restoration has been a key component of the Queen & Collins development. Its been very challenging to design for this heritage space because we cant touch the [building] envelope at all, says Nomad co-owner Rebecca Yazbek. Im thinking of what were doing as inserting a cocoon that showcases the history and the grandeur but also wraps the diner.

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Melbourne is rightly enamoured of its history  you didnt demolish it all as Sydney did  and we hope we are adding a layer of enjoyment to this significant site so people can enjoy the detail of the space. 1 / 5 The Cathedral Rooms gothic revival interior includes solid limestone walls, solid granite columns, and stone vaulted ceilings. Petrina Tinslay 2 / 5 One of the Cathedral Rooms ornate stained-glass windows. Petrina Tinslay 3 / 5 Grand gothic arches inside the Cathedral Room, built between 1888 and 1890. Petrina Tinslay 4 / 5 The Cathedral Rooms groin vaulted ceiling. Petrina Tinslay 5 / 5 The ANZ Gothic Bank (left) and the old stock exchange in 1900. National Trust of Australia Previous Slide Next Slide Acoustics have been a particular challenge: the gothic revival interior features limestone walls, mosaic tiling, granite columns and stone vaulted ceilings. Theyve used sound-dampening timber to wrap the space and raise flooring. Unlike Nomad in Flinders Lane, Reines kitchen will be tucked away. Its a bit old-school: were having an elegant dining room and the duck legs will be paddling away unseen, says Yazbek. We want to bring fun and conviviality, too. Also hidden will be La Rue, a secret eight-seat bar featuring black-stained timber joinery, a black terrazzo floor and wine cellar.

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Executive chef Jacqueline Challinor is relishing the menu possibilities, especially of a wood-fired hearth twice as big as the one shes using at Nomad. Its pretty mind-blowing to walk in and imagine what we will be creating, she says. The menu will draw on those French classics we know and love, but Im aiming for elegant, pared back, clean and sharp, with a menu that works for sharing but also for those who want their own plate of food. Challinor plans to spend a week driving around the Mornington Peninsula connecting with local suppliers. I want to focus on great Victorian producers, she says. Its pretty mind-blowing to walk in and imagine what we will be creating. Jacqueline Challinor A 10-metre bar will be reserved for walk-ins and there are eight spots at a dedicated oyster bar, where chefs will shuck to order.

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The restaurant theatre will extend to a cheese trolley and occasional tricks at the table. This dining room is going to demand a bit of a show, says Challinor. Perhaps well do a beautifully grilled whole fish served with tableside flair. Desserts will be classic. Theres something to be said for a beautifully executed creme brulee, says Challinor. We can make it all about the details and the art form. Challinor will work on the menu with head chef Brendan Katich, currently at Nomad Melbourne. Group wine director Ged Bellis is working on a list that will lean French and American. We will have the largest and most exclusive American wine list in the country, he says. Reine and La Rue will open at 380 Collins Street, Melbourne, in August. In the same complex, and also slated for a winter opening, is Purple Pit, a bar from Icebergs Maurice Terzini and drinks doyen Joe Jones. The pair worked together in 2022 to bring the short-lived Cucina Povera to life.

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It will be a five-star dive bar where the inspiration of elegant hotel bars is deconstructed yet maintained by the drinks, art, food and service, says Terzini. Purple Pit will be in the basement under the ANZ Bank at 388 Collins Street, part of the same Queen & Collins development.
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Review Eating outSurry Hills Dont miss the carbonara at Italian-Filipino fusion restaurant Fauna This blink-and-miss-it restaurant in a Surry Hills terrace might not yet offer a fully polished package, but its definitely one to watch. Terry Durack May 9, 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

1 / 6 Fauna seats 16 diners downstairs, another 16 upstairs and 14 in the rear courtyard. Wolter Peeters 2 / 6 School prawns with yuzu kosho aioli. Wolter Peeters 3 / 6 Barbecue Hornsby Shire spatchcock with pickled slaw and lime ponzu. Wolter Peeters 4 / 6 Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara. Wolter Peeters 5 / 6 Piadina with Berkshire pork cheek. Wolter Peeters 6 / 6 Kalamansi tart. Wolter Peeters Previous Slide Next Slide 13.5 / 20 How we score Italian$$$ For a restaurant named Fauna, there isnt much in the way of wildlife around. Unless you count the hordes of loyal Swans marching down Fitzroy Street bound for the night match at the SCG, I suppose, but they all look pretty well-behaved. Fauna is the latest addition to the burgeoning restaurant scene along this neighbourly stretch, which includes the likes of Chez Crix, Lokal and Sang by Mabasa. If Surry Hills ever decides to secede from Sydney, the local populace probably wouldnt even notice, because they dont need to eat anywhere else. Its a small blink-and-miss-it terrace house, with just 16 diners seated downstairs, another 16 upstairs and 14 in the rear courtyard. This makes for a more personal experience, with everyone in the room happy to join in and sing happy birthday to a complete stranger.

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Co-owner Geraint Coles of Bondis erstwhile Panama House is in tonight, subbing for manager Quentin Touitou, who is on leave. In the tiny kitchen is head chef Ace Espiritu, formerly of Icebergs Dining Room & Bar. But while the Italian-leaning menu is filled with things such as arancini, piadina and pasta arrabiata; its also filtered through Espiritus Filipino heritage, which adds a level of interest and curiosity. Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara. Wolter Peeters That piadina ($23), for instance, is whipped away from its Italian roots and served on the side of a meaty, fatty chip-chop of charcoal-grilled pork jowl, in the style of Filipino sisig. Its a dish of full-on flavours that doesnt quite come together, because you want to spoon the stew on top of the piadina and eat it in the hand, but the bread wont bend. An idea worth refining. An entree of school prawns ($19) is great (isnt it always?), coming as a pile-up of head-on, deep-fried pinkies ready to swipe though a mound of aioli flavoured with yuzu kosho. Arrosticini, or skewers of char-grilled lamb (two for $22), come warm rather than hot, with a good green herb sauce. A rocket salad ($12) has a low-impact dressing. Co-owner Julia Quisumbing has made the most of the space, running a mirrored wall and cushy banquette around the dining area. Textures are marble, wood and glass, and the front room, particularly, is a nice place to be.

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The wine list is still a work in progress, with small stocks of hand-picked wines. You might just get someone bringing a few bottles to the table as suggestions for you to try, which is how I found a 2021 Stargazer Rada ($88) a fruity, savoury mix of pinot noir and pinot meunier from Tasmanian winemaker, Samantha Connew. The menu lists three pasta dishes and five main courses, built for sharing. Of these, a heavily brined barbecue Hornsby Shire spatchcock ($28) isnt as straightforward as it might sound, with its Korean-style pickled slaw and salty soy-ponzu dipping sauce. The kitchen is on surer ground with pasta, and a generous dish of spaghetti carbonara ($30) is pretty much what you want when you want carbonara. A well-emulsified sauce brings together guanciale, pecorino, parmesan, egg yolk and pepper, coating the strands of nicely al dente pasta with needy clinginess. While the Italian-leaning menu is filled with things such as arancini, piadina and pasta arrabiata; its also filtered through Espiritus Filipino heritage. To end, a kalamansi tart ($19) is a cute twist on lemon meringue pie, with a strong, pushy tartness that acts in self-defence against a sugary meringue topping and the jug of dulce de leche poured over the top at the table.

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As I said, Fauna is still a work in progress, and a busy night might see a few yawning gaps in service, or a relaxed attitude to the temperature of dishes sent out. The Italian influence is the most promising, with the Asian flavours feeling a bit forced. But were at an intriguing stage in Australia, where young chefs want to express who they are through their own cooking, not just that of others. Which makes Fauna, and other small restaurants like it, very promising. The low-down Vibe: Refined and rustic Italian food with an Asian filter Drinks: A constantly changing if limited wine list Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara, $30
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This pocket-sized bar-eatery has snared a top sushi chef, switching to omakase two nights a week.

What do Yoshii, Bestuto, Kuon, Haco and Gaku have in common? They are all Sydney omakases. And now you can add Moku to the list.

Moku, the bar-eatery that opened on Crown Street in Darlinghurst last year, has snared former Sushi e chef Ha Chuen Wai, and added an omakase counter experience.

Sea urchin and caviar on transparent crystal bread. Kera Wong

The pocket-sized two-storey sandstone surrounds are also some of Sydneys smallest. And at $268-300 a head, its omakase menu is among the citys pricier offerings.

Delicate dishes include velvety Japanese toro (tuna belly) topped with sea urchin and New Zealand snapper with truffle yuzu and salmon ikura (roe).
In March, a next-generation H3 rocket launched from Tanegashima Space Centre in Japan. The rocket was carrying a three-tonne Earth observation satellite with an infrared sensor that could monitor ballistic missile launches in North Korea.

Fourteen minutes after liftoff, Japans space agency issued a self-destruct command. The rocket, which cost 200 billion yen ($2.2 billion) to develop, rained down in pieces off the coast of the Philippines. The second-stage engine had failed to ignite.

Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, at Adelaides Space Discovery Centre. Credit: Roy Van Der Vegt

Space is hard, president of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, said. If we repeat the same technology every year, its not so hard. But we, especially space agencies, are always tackling new technologies and engaging in new missions.

Our role is to maintain accessibility to space. That is our vital mission. Right now all we have to do is move on, move forward.
This brought the production of films such as Stork, Picnic at Hanging Rock and Breaker Morant, unapologetically Australian works in which people spoke in their own accents. Despite this, the perception an Australian literary novelist was a rolling oxymoron persisted into the 1990s. Tim Winton submission to the Productivity Commission, 2016 I respectfully and wearily refer you to my submission of 2009, attached. I understand that neither this letter nor my previous submission may be treated as persuasive evidence, given the linguistic and ideological barriers separating us, but perhaps they will be of some historical interest to future scholars should your calamitous recommendations be adopted by Government. Youd be made to go and have drinks and functions with literary editors and hobnob in London and youd still be getting jokes, he said. You just had to smile and your only revenge is to do good.

He said his first political act as an artist was staying home. The assumption was I lived on the wrong side of the wrong country and the wrong hemisphere if I wanted to be a serious writer, and person, he said. The cultural cringe abated but the continental cringe hadnt. Winton received constant questioning about when he would be buying a black skivvy and trading in the double pluggers to move to Sydney or Melbourne. And holding out had not always been a simple choice, especially when a long-distance call cost you real money.

Writing novels in my parents back shed in Scarborough wallpapered with rejection slips, I could pick the sound of the postie coming streets away and my body would get all tense, he said. Sometimes it was a long time between drinks. Did I have my doubts? Of course I did. But I refused to surrender to what was put as cultural common sense. Tim Winton has published 29 books in a career spanning more than 40 years. He also resisted pressure to give up territorial copyright, and insist that his books remain written, typeset, printed and sold at home, because it felt right, even when it cost him financially. Those of us who held out for territorial copyright were trying to hold on to the integrity of the book industry ecosystem, Winton said.

[Not return] us to a colonial outpost where Australian writers would be published overseas and have their work exported to their home country, which is really perverse and not something a French author would contemplate. Then came the advent of e-books, with Winton among a cohort campaigning to raise author e-book royalties to a fair rate. We didnt want to be like the music industry utterly decimated by this model where you get paid nothing, he said. Parallel importation was another battle he was involved in as Australias productivity Commission attempted to tinker with the industry yet again. He was underwater most of the time filming Ningaloo Nyinggulu while the Australian government was formulating its long awaited cultural policy, released in January, which will mean authors are finally compensated for audio and e-book loans from public libraries, but welcomed the announcement.

Lets face it, after the previous government, this is at least a government that has a cultural policy and thats progress, he said. Does he regret not moving to Melbourne, or indeed New York? And has a life of activism, both industrial and environmental, been worth it? Some of the most provincial and parochial people Ive ever met have been from those London and New York centres, Winton said. And I dont think now people are asking Craig Silvey or Claire Coleman when theyre moving to Sydney. Things have changed. Theyre still tough, its still an odd gig to be embarking on, but  how different it is, from when I was growing up. And when you decide not to be involved in politics, even that is a political decision.

Every part of your life, you have agency. He urged people to use that agency to support Australian publications. These are the people pushing our culture forward, he said. If it was about the money theyd all be gone and youd be reading exclusively American and English books. Publishing and bookselling  and writing  are part of a living ecosystem and we should be proud of it.

The writing community are writing for love more than money  if it was about the money theyd all be gone and youd be reading exclusively American and English books. So support that local community bookstore just as you support any other community store  they care and they make a difference. Loading The Australian Publishers Association said in a statement that Wintons writing had seeped into our collective consciousness. [It] is reflected in conversations from the arts and education, to the environment and marine conservation, to community and political advocacy, it said. Winton is an impressive and deserving recipient of this award.
The Coalition will begin the new parliament in turmoil after the NSW Nationals sensationally turfed their leader, former deputy premier Paul Toole, just one month after he was re-elected to the role.

A day of recriminations inside the junior Coalition partner ended in Toole losing the leadership to former agriculture minister Dugald Saunders, and under-fire MP Ben Franklin confirming he would nominate to be president of the upper house despite facing the threat of expulsion from the party.

Paul Toole has lost the leadership of the Nationals, just one month after he was re-elected to the role. Credit: Kate Geraghty

The leadership spill was prompted by the Heralds revelations Franklin had informed Toole of his intention to nominate for the upper house role weeks before it became public.

It became evident that [Tooles] leadership was in a tenuous position this morning. The party room had some decisions to make and the party room has now spoken, Saunders said.
Six options for a new bridge between Chelmer and Indooroopilly, one of the citys worst traffic choke-points, have been laid out by Brisbane City Council.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said all levels of government would be asked to fund the bridge  with a significant investment from the council  once a decision was made.

Preliminary work by the council indicates a cost of between $800 million and $1.3 billion depending on the option chosen near Indooroopillys Walter Taylor Bridge.

Examples of river crossing options at Indooroopilly, in Brisbane. Credit: Brisbane City Council

Schrinner wants to form an intergovernmental working group to develop the path forward after residents had mixed views on the best solution.
Indigenous leader and former federal Liberal candidate Nyunggai Warren Mundine has called on Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto to quit, labelling him a fool for backing a fresh motion to expel controversial MP Moira Deeming.

Conservative Liberals have rallied behind Deeming, who last year won preselection with the backing of the partys moderate faction, as the upper house MP prepares to face a second motion to remove her from the parliamentary party.

Nyunggai Warren Mundine, a leading conservative, says moderate and conservative Liberals wont unite under John Pesutto. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Her critics and supporters in the Victorian party room expect Fridays expulsion motion to pass.

Mundine, also the Labor Partys former national president, told The Age Pesutto was a fool for letting the issue drag on for six weeks, particularly when Victorians needed a strong opposition.
(Photo : Sergey SHESTAK / AFP) (SERGEY SHESTAK/AFP via Getty Images)

Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin suggested that he would keep his troops stationed in Bakhmut despite previous warnings to retreat after an alleged commitment of ammunition supply.

Wagner Group suggests staying in Bakhmut after receiving a commitment to ammunition supply

The situation comes after the group's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, warned that he would withdraw his troops from the region due to a lack of ammunition

Russia sees the battle for Bakhmut as a stepping stone to controlling other cities in the Donbas region

Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin suggests that his troops will stay in Bakhmut and defend their position after receiving a commitment for much-needed ammunition following his threat of withdrawing from the city.

The group allegedly received promises of being supplied with arms by Moscow. It said that its troops could continue attacking what Russia sees as a stepping stone to other cities in the Donbas region of Ukraine.

Wagner Group To Stay in Bakhmut

On Sunday, the Ukrainian general in charge of the defense of the city of Bakhmut said that Moscow had intensified its attacks on the region in an attempt to take control of the city by Tuesday. The situation comes as May 9 is celebrated as Victory Day in Russia as it marks the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, as per Reuters.

Russian and Ukrainian media reported explosions elsewhere in Crimea, and one instance of a blast happened in the Black Sea city of Odesa. The Russian defense ministry noted that its air defenses detected and destroyed 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea that night.

The promise to Wagner's troops came after Prigozhin on Friday said his fighters, who were responsible for spearheading a months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out. This was due to a severe lack of ammunition and a series of "useless and unjustified" losses.

However, an audio message seemingly from Prigozhin said that Russia has promised to supply the Wagner Group with the ammunition it needs to continue fighting in Bakhmut. The Wagner leader added that his troops could advance by 280 meters.

Read Also: DR Congo Floods Death Toll Rises to Nearly 400

Yevgeny Prigozhin's Warnings

Prigozhin previously posted a video of himself threatening to withdraw his troops from Bakhmut, showing a score of dead bodies of soldiers he said were unable to fight properly. According to CNN, he claimed there have already been "tens of thousands" of Wagner casualties in the battle for the region.

In a previous Telegram message on Saturday, Prigozhin noted that they had taken control of roughly 95% of Bakhmut. He added that for the remaining 5%, the "Red Army," a reference to the Russian Armed Forces (RAF), will not play any role.

Many have compared the Wagner Group's brutal tactics in the region to a "meat grinder." However, following his many threats to withdraw from the city, he claimed that his approach was no longer working as he had hoped.

Despite being on the same side against Ukraine, the Russian government and the Wagner Group have had a friction-filled relationship. Prigozhin has frequently criticized Moscow officials for what he claims is a lack of front-line support for his troops, said BBC.

Related Article: Arab League Readmits Syria After 12-Year Suspension

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The chief commissioner made a renewed commitment to First Peoples in the state on behalf of Victoria Police to eliminate bias and racism within its ranks. We will know we have achieved true partnership when every Aboriginal person feels confident to look to this uniform for services and support, and better yet  when more and more Aboriginal people want to wear it, Patton concluded. In a short statement before reading the apology, Patton said Victoria police needed to undertake transformational change. That change needs to be urgent, it needs to be effective, and it needs to be done with purpose. Yoorrook chair Professor Eleanor Bourke said it was important the police chief commissioners words were now on the public record.

Yoorrook has heard that our people continue to be targeted, attacked, harassed and racially profiled by police. Your presence today is important, because if actions do not follow your apology, then what hope do we have? Your apology must bring real change. The Yoorrook Justice Commission asks for an undertaking today that Victoria Police protect Aboriginal communities and families and respect our culture and human rights. Police Minister Anthony Carbines gives evidence. Credit: Joe Armao Victorias Police Minister Anthony Carbines accepted that Aboriginal people didnt trust Victoria Police because of systemic injustices within the criminal justice system. Carbines told the inquiry on Monday he believed that transformative change to the states police service was possible, though under questioning acknowledged that no strategy was in place to reduce or eliminate racial discrimination and systemic injustice toward Aboriginal people.

Commissioner Travis Lovett asked what power and resources Victoria Police had transferred to First Nations-led services to date, as had been repeatedly advised by the Aboriginal Justice Forum (AJF). I wouldnt say that that has happened, Carbines said. The forum brings together the most senior representatives of the Department of Justice and Indigenous leaders to develop better justice outcomes for the Aboriginal community. Victorian Aboriginal Legal Services chief executive Nerita Waight said the police minister and chief commissioners submissions and testimony would do little to lead to change on the ground.

Our people are subject to overpolicing, police misconduct, and racist policing. Weve seen an increase of notification in our custody notification service. Weve also seen that in some regions police have increased the number of Aboriginal people they are charging with public intoxication even though the government is implementing legislation to decriminalise public intoxication, Waight said. These are not the actions of an institution that is sorry. We have been asking for the same things for so long now. Aboriginal people know the solutions to the issues our communities face. We need governments to embrace self-determination by giving us the resources and ability to make these changes. The Yoorrook Justice Commission is the first truth-telling inquiry of its kind in Australias history. It is examining the injustices experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victorias child protection and criminal justice systems. In public hearings held in March and December, the inquiry heard that the child protection system acts as a conduit, funnelling First Peoples into the states youth justice and criminal justice systems.

Loading The latest hearings, involving witnesses from key government departments, will provide evidence to inform a critical issues report due in August. The report will include recommendations to government for reforming both the systems, and ultimately guide the negotiations of the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria for a statewide treaty. In a broad submission from government, Premier Daniel Andrews said it was a source of great shame that First Peoples continue to be over-represented in the criminal justice and child protection systems. The Victorian government has reflected on the discrimination and mistreatment that First Nations peoples can often endure in the criminal justice and child protection systems. These injustices are not confined to history  they persist to this day, Andrews said in a letter heading up the governments written submission. On Friday, Victorias Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes was grilled on the over-representation of Aboriginal people in Victorias prisons, deaths in custody and the disproportionate impact the states bail laws have had on First Peoples. She was also asked about the decriminalisation of public drunkenness, calls for stronger police oversight, and her commitment to raise the age of criminal responsibility.

Data in the submission revealed the extent that First Peoples are over-represented in the criminal justice system. Indigenous men and women in Victoria continue to experience high levels of incarceration, with Aboriginal men 15 times more likely than non-Indigenous men to be imprisoned and Aboriginal women 22 times more likely to be incarcerated than non-Indigenous women. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of First Nations people imprisoned in Victoria increased by 148 per cent. The submission also acknowledged that amendments to the states Bail Act in 2018 also disproportionately affected First Nations people.
London: King Charles grumbled to his wife before the coronation ceremony, after the pair arrived early at Westminster Abbey in their horse-drawn carriage, a lip reader has claimed.

The King allegedly said we can never be on time and theres always something, after he and Camilla arrived in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, and were forced to wait for his son William, the Prince of Wales, and Princess Catherine before entering the abbey.

King Charles and Queen Camilla wait in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach outside Westminster Abbey. Credit: Getty Images

The Waleses were due to appear at 10.45am, while the King and Queens arrival had been tightly scheduled for 10.53am.

But instead the coach pulled up outside at 10.47am.
A former contractor to and promoter of Courtenay House investments has been sentenced to two years imprisonment and was ordered to complete 120 hours of community service for his role in the unlicensed financial services business.

Athan Papoulias, of Brighton Le Sands, NSW, will serve his prison term by way of an intensive corrections order, after pleading guilty to one charge of carrying on an unlicensed financial services business, reckless about the fact that the business did not have the required licence, and one charge of dealing in the proceeds of crime worth $100,000 or more, reckless as to it being derived from the carrying on if an unlicensed financial services business.

During the period from November 2, 2016, to April 21, 2017, Papoulias received a total of $670,860 in commissions for promoting investments in Courtenay House.

In May 2017, liquidators were appointed to the Courtenay House companies and the director, Tony Iervasi, was restricted from leaving Australia. On November 8, 2022, Iervasi pleaded guilty to five criminal charges, four of which included engaging in dishonest conduct from December 13, 2010, to April 21, 2017, in relation to $180 million raised by the Courtenay House companies from around 585 investors.

The Courtenay House companies represented to investors that their funds would be traded in the Forex and Futures markets when only a small proportion of funds were traded, ASIC said. Instead, a Ponzi scheme was being run, with monthly amounts paid to investors from the capital invested by other investors, with Courtenay House falsely representing that these amounts were returns from trading. Mr Papoulias was not aware that the funds were used to fuel a Ponzi scheme.

ASIC deputy chair Sarah Court said ASIC has taken civil action to freeze assets, assisted liquidators, and is now seeing justice for investors through the criminal court.

To ensure a fair and strong financial system, and to protect consumers, financial services businesses need to be licensed, Court said. Those promoting unlicensed businesses should not assume they are immune from criminal consequences.

Judge Michael McHugh said Papoulias actions had undermined public confidence in the regulatory regime of the financial services industry. McHugh also took into consideration Papoulias guilty plea.

The matter was prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions after an investigation and referral by ASIC.


P&W engines have over the years shaped the fortunes and future of airlines and militaries around the world. But now the US-headquartered engine manufacturer is facing turbulence. Its association with India is over 70 years old and spans both civil and military aviation. The Douglas DC-3 transport aircraft used by the air force beginning the 1940s and the iconic Boeing 747 aircraft flown by Air India, both had Pratt & Whitney (P&W) engines. The Indian Air Forces present-day, heavy-lift C-17 Globemaster III and the yet-to-be-inducted C-295 planes, too, have P&W power plants.



Pratt & Whitney has been a cornerstone of the global propulsion industry for decades and has powered a range of civilian and military aircraft. In recent years, it has focused on engines for narrow-body aircraft, specifically the A320 family, said Greg Waldron, Asia managing editor of FlightGlobal, an aviation news portal. No-frills airline Go First has blamed P&W for its insolvency. In Europe, Swiss International Airlines has grounded a third of its Airbus A220 aircraft owing to engine issues. Carriers in Africa are collaborating to mitigate the challenges caused by engine defects.



In India, currently around 1,500 P&W engines and auxiliary power units are in use in 700-plus aircraft and helicopters flown by 135 operators. These include over 180 Airbus A320/A321Neo aircraft with IndiGo and Go First that have the PW1000G series geared turbofan (GTF) engines. Supply chain challenges are an issue for the entire industry, but the extreme engineering and exquisite materials used in modern jet engines make them particularly vulnerable to hiccups, he added. In addition, there is a shortage of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capacity. While the PW1000G series engines (used on A320 aircraft) clearly face supply challenges, the underlying technology is sound and will in the long term help airlines enjoy significant fuel savings.

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While most of the issues were fixed, problems persist. While the GTF engines have been celebrated for fuel efficiency (P&W sources say the engines have to date delivered more than $1 billion in savings to Indian carriers), they have been equally controversial since their entry into service in 2016. There have been issues with their low-pressure turbine blades, seals, combustors and other parts. These led to inflight shutdowns or premature withdrawals of the engines from aircraft.



P&W began losing business in India as problems continued with its GTF engines. In its insolvency application to the National Company Law Tribunal, Go First said the number of aircraft on ground due to engine failures increased from 31 per cent in 2020 to more than 50 per cent in April 2023.



Royal Brunei Airlines and Qatar Airways made the engine switch earlier after initially selecting the P&W product for their Airbus A320/321Neo aircraft. In 2019 and then again 2021, IndiGo opted for rival engine maker CFMs LEAP-1A engine for its Airbus A320Neo family aircraft. The total number of aircraft covered in these two agreements by IndiGo was 590.



The Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war has impacted the engine original equipment manufacturer (OEM), too. While the pandemic impacted fresh orders and production, the war limited the supply of key metals used in the manufacture of engines and resulted in increased costs. The P&W GTF engine entered service globally before CFM LEAP-1A but the latter has a higher installed base, Aviation Week magazine said last November. The magazine has, however, forecast a fairly even market share between the engines over the next decade.



All mechanical components are susceptible to failure and thus it is imperative for airlines to have watertight contracts with the OEMs to cover all contingencies and receive uninterrupted product support, said an aviation expert who did not wish to be named. P&W did not respond to an email query.



Things are quite different for airlines today, Rotkar said. The fleets are almost entirely leased, which limits the swapping of internal parts between aircraft. The new-generation engines are under some form of the Power by the Hour arrangement wherein operators pay an agreed rate per hour/event for maintenance. Sanjeev Rotkar, aviation consultant and Air Indias former executive director of engineering, recounted, A self-owned fleet allowed the swapping of internal parts. Better availability of spares, access to non-OEM repair shops and in-house engineering facility helped in a quicker turnaround of engines for Air India in the past for its legacy fleet of Boeing 707s to Boeing 747s.



French multinational Safran is building an MRO in Hyderabad for the LEAP engines with an investment of $150 million, and it is expected to be operational by 2025. He said that while this allows for risk-sharing with OEMs, it also means that engine off-wing repair can only be performed under their umbrella. In India currently, there is no OEM-approved facility for off-wing repairs of GTF and LEAP engines. So, these engines have to be sent to Europe or the US even for quick-turn visits, Rotkar said.
Financial Express citing sources.

Earlier, these three banks were not lenders to the group and as the group embarks on a series of expansion plans, their financial support will include loans for new projects and refinancing of high-cost debts, the report suggests. After a January report by Hindenburg Research which eroded the groups market capitalisation, the assurances came as a result to the groups investor roadshows held across Asia and Europe to win back trust. Multinational conglomerate Adani Group has received financial assurances from three Japanese banks - Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking and Mizuho Financial Group, reportedciting sources.

Financial Express report, existing lenders, including Standard Chartered and Barclays too have reaffirmed their confidence in the groups operations. All banks have pledged support to refinance bonds maturing in FY24 and FY26, and existing & new debt. Bonds worth $4 billion will be maturing in FY24 and FY26.

GQG Partners with Rs 15,446 crore investments in Adani Enterprises (AEL), Adani Green Energy, Adani Ports and Adani Total Gas is also expected to further invest in the Gautam Adani-owned companies. According toreport, existing lenders, including Standard Chartered and Barclays too have reaffirmed their confidence in the groups operations. All banks have pledged support to refinance bonds maturing in FY24 and FY26, and existing & new debt. Bonds worth $4 billion will be maturing in FY24 and FY26.



"The company is expecting growth from its core infrastructure business, allied businesses such as cement and FMCG among others," said the group during the roadshows. Adani Group companies are planning to execute large-scale projects across infrastructure and utility space, and need cash flows for these, while the group is also aiming to raise about $800 million for new green energy projects.

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Tata-owned Air India on Monday extended a voluntary retirement offer for its non-flying staff till May 31. This is the third such offer by the group after it took control of the airline in January last year.

According to Air India, the permanent general cadre officers who have attained the age of 40 years or above and completed a minimum of five years of continuous service at the airlines are eligible for the offer.

Also eligible will be clerical and unskilled categories of employees who have completed a minimum of five years of continuous service.

"This is in reference to the organisational announcement dated March 17. In this regard, please note that the last date to apply for voluntary retirement in terms of the above organisational announcement for all the eligible employees has been extended till 31 May 2023," read a notice issued on Monday.

"However, the acceptance of application and the date of release will continue to be subject to management's discretion. In case of any queries or concerns, please reach out to the HR representatives for clarification," it added.

--IANS

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ssh/arm


Brookfield Infrastructure Partners is considering the sale of a minority stake in its telecommunications tower business in India, according to people familiar with the matter.

By Manuel Baigorri, Baiju Kalesh and Dinesh Nair



Investors including pension funds have shown preliminary interest in acquiring the stake, as they seek stable returns and a chance to increase their exposure to the South Asian economy, the people said. The Canadian investment firm is working with an adviser to sell a stake of more than 10% in the infrastructure investment trust that holds Summit DigiTel, the people said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private. A deal would satisfy regulatory requirements around the so-called InvIT structure, the people added.



Deliberations are preliminary and Brookfield may decide against pursuing a sale, the people said. A representative for Brookfield declined to comment. Brookfield and its institutional partners completed their acquisition of the telecom tower unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Industries Ltd. for about $3.4 billion in 2020.

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The fund, the sixth overall, was oversubscribed within 2.5 months after the raise process began. Bengaluru-based 3one4 Capital invests in consumer internet, SaaS (software as a service), fintech, and enterprise and SMB digitisation. It is also increasing investments in newer areas such as digital health and climate technology. Early-stage venture capital firm 3one4 Capital has closed its fourth early-stage fund at $200 million (Rs 1,600 crore).



The company said that despite market challenges, leading global and Indian investors have confidence in its strategy of investing in Fund IV as limited partners (LPs). Investors include Indias three systemically important banks (State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, and HDFC Bank), five of Indias largest listed banks by market cap and eight of Indias leading mutual fund operators. Other investors include US university endowments, global sovereign funds, global corporations & insurance companies, Indias leading corporations, and a selection of Indias largest family offices. Fund IV is 90 per cent institutional in its investor base. "We will double down on India-specific businesses, given our lessons from market leaders such as Licious, WeRize, and KukuFM, and will remain bullish on India's consumption patterns, said Anurag Ramdasan, partner at 3one4 Capital. We also plan to continue deploying more capital into cross-border SaaS investments, given our positive experience partnering with leaders like DarwinBox, BetterPlace, and others.

In total, 3one4 Capital will manage Rs 3,710 crore ($510 million) of committed capital and more than Rs 6,000 crore ($750 million) in assets under management (AUM).


Binance, one of the world's leading cryptocurrency exchanges, paused Bitcoin withdrawals again, making it the second time in a day or less than 24 hours on Monday, May 8.

Shortly after the crypto exchange resumed withdrawing the leading digital token, it again announced its suspension.

Binance Halts Bitcoin Withdrawals Yet Again

As per a report by Bloomberg, Binance confirmed to its users that it has temporarily halted the withdrawals of Bitcoin from the

The leading crypto exchange assured its customers that they were already fixing the problem, which led to the temporary pause of withdrawals. Once that is out, the platform says they will reopen Bitcoin withdrawals "as soon as possible."

Before the latest pause of withdrawals, Binance paused Bitcoin withdrawals earlier that day, which lasted for roughly two hours, Reuters reports. Given that, the crypto exchange suspended the withdrawal option two in a row in less than 24 hours.

Read Also: Warren Buffett Warns US on Bank Crisis, Use of Bitcoin

Why Did Binance Suspend Bitcoin Withdrawals?

In its recent tweet, Binance blames the traffic congestion of transactions as the reason for pausing withdrawals temporarily. The official Twitter of Binance confirmed that they are grappling with a "large volume of pending transactions."

The crypto exchange also cited transaction congestion for its first withdrawal halt earlier in the day, according to Coin Desk. Binance paused Bitcoin withdrawals for the second time as the transactions reached a record high. To be more precise, the transactions nearly hit the 500,000 mark. It is significantly higher than the previous 400,000 transactions, which triggered the first halt.

This is not the first instance that Binance halted withdrawals on the platform. Reuters notes that a technical issue forced the crypto service to suspend withdrawals and deposits last March. The exchange's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Changpeng Zhao, blames a bug for the incident.

But this time, Binance cites a transaction congestion problem, temporarily stopping Bitcoin withdrawals. It is worth noting that withdrawals for other cryptocurrencies, such as PEPE and DOGE, remain open. In other words, the suspension is only limited to Bitcoin, which dropped over two percent to $28,252.

Binance assured in its tweet that the funds are SAFU, which, according to Money Mongers, is a term for crypto bros that means "safe."

In a tweet, Binance announced that the withdrawals for BTC had resumed. To avoid the abrupt suspension from disrupting the service again, it has already raised the transaction fees for withdrawals. The top crypto exchange goes on to thank its users for their patience.

Related Article: Introducing the Bitcoin Mining Academy: Your Ultimate Guide to Mastering the Art of Bitcoin Mining

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NEW DELHI/BENGALURU (Reuters) -Go Airlines (India) on Monday asked the country's company law tribunal to urgently pass an order on its insolvency plea, citing lessors' efforts to take back planes, per the court hearing.

The push comes less than a week after the cash-strapped Indian airline filed for bankruptcy, blaming "faulty" Pratt & Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its fleet.

On Monday, Go First lawyers told the tribunal to urgently pass an order on the airline's insolvency plea, saying its lessors had moved to repossess the planes even as bankruptcy proceedings were ongoing.

Meanwhile, Pratt & Whitney told a New Delhi arbitrator hearing its dispute with Go that the Indian airline's claim of defective engines causing its demise was "astounding" and without evidence. Go failed because of "its own poor management and events like Covid", Pratt said, according to legal documents.

Go's fall marked the first major airline collapse in India since full-service carrier Jet Airways filed for bankruptcy in 2019.

Go First's total debt to financial creditors was 65.21 billion Indian rupees ($798 million) as of April 28, it had earlier said in a bankruptcy filing with the National Company Law Tribunal.

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($1 = 81.7570 Indian rupees)

(Reporting by Arpan Chaturvedi in New Delhi; Writing by Rama Venkat and Dhanya Skariachan in Bengaluru; Editing by Dhanya Ann Thoppil)


The NCLT has not given the next date of hearing or said when an order may be passed. Go First on Monday asked the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) in Delhi to urgently pass an order on its insolvency plea.



Lessors are not allowing (the airline) to carry out routine maintenance of aircraft, Nagesh told NCLT. We urge the court to pass an order. Senior advocate P Nagesh, appearing for Go First, said lessors had moved an application to repossess aircraft during legal proceedings.



The airline said on Friday that its flight operations will remain suspended till May 12, due to "operational reasons". It first suspended flights till May 9 and suspended bookings till May 15. The airline filed for bankruptcy protection last week, blaming "faulty" Pratt & Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its 54 Airbus A320neo. In its bankruptcy application, the airline said it had cancelled 4,118 flights (serving 77,500 passengers) in the last 30 days.

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We are capable of operating these 26 aircraft, and are also capable of paying salaries and dues on fuel, landing, and other things to stay operational, said Nagesh. The airline told the NCLT last week that till the filing of its plea it had not defaulted on paying its financial creditors. He said of its 54 aircraft, 26 were operational.



Lessors (SMBC Capital Aviation, GAL, CDB Aviation, Sonoram Aviation Company, and MSPL Aviation), opposed the airlines plea and said it could not ask for a moratorium even before they were heard. The airline also urged the tribunal to grant it an interim moratorium and, if that was not possible, then admit its insolvency plea under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code(IBC).

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday issued a show cause notice to Go First, asking why its licence should not be cancelled. The regulator also requested that the airline cease all ticket sales immediately.


The companys board will also consider and approve the audited financial results for the year and quarter ended on March 31, 2023. JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals will consider a sub-division of equity shares, said the company in a regulatory filing on Monday. A final decision on this will be taken during the board meeting to be held on Wednesday, 24 May 2023.



In a filing with the stock exchanges, J B Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals said, The board of directors will consider and approve the proposal to sub-divide/split the equity shares of face value of Rs 2/- each of the Company to equity shares of face value Re 1/- each of the Company and matters related thereto in such manner as the Board may determine subject to the approval of the shareholders of the Company. The outcome of the board meeting will be communicated to the stock exchanges after the conclusion on May 24.



Last year, JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals said that it has entered into an agreement with Glenmark Pharmaceuticals to acquire the cardiac brand, Razel (Rousvastatin) franchise for the India and Nepal region for a cash consideration of Rs 313.7 crore. The board of J B Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals will also consider and recommend dividend on equity shares of the company, if any, subject to the approval of shareholders, said the company in a regulatory filing.

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JB Pharma said that it sees growth potential from the acquired portfolio as it is synergistic with its cardiac segment and will help it leverage its Go to Market Model. Further the products provide good operating leverage and are margin accretive, given its attractive margin profile. The pharma company said that the acquisition will be funded through long term debt and internal accruals (primarily debt). Razel and its combinations are indicated for the management of dyslipidemia. Razel ranks among the top 10 brands in the Rousvastatin molecule category in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)
Javice and Amar both turned around and sued JPMorgan for legal fees in Delaware Chancery Court, saying they deserved coverage under the banks policies since they became JPMorgan employees after the buyout. The banks attorneys countered that the fraud allegations negated its obligations.

JPMorgan sued Javice and Olivier Amar, another Frank executive, for fraud in Delaware federal court in December, claiming they falsified records to show the site had more than four million customers when it actually had less than a tenth that number. JPMorgan has since shut down the Frank site.


JSW Steel's board will also consider the recommendation of payment of dividend on the equity shares, the company statement said. JSW Steel will consider raising of long-term funds, said the company in a regulatory filing on Monday. A final decision on this will be taken during the board meeting to be held on Friday, 19 May 2023.



In a filing with the stock exchanges, JSW Steel said, The board would also be considering: a) Recommendation of payment of dividend on the Equity Shares of the Company; and b) Raising of long-term funds, including but not limited to, Qualified Institutions Placement of permissible securities, issuance of Non-Convertible Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Bonds in the International Markets and issuance of Redeemable Non-Convertible Debentures, subject to such regulatory/statutory approvals as may be required. The outcome of the board meeting will be communicated to the stock exchanges after the conclusion on May 19.



The company said in a statement last week it aims to meet the demand for quality steel products melted & manufactured in the US, in line with the Biden Administrations Buy America policies. The new projects are expected to be completed and commissioned in FY26. On May 3, JSW Steel USA Ohio Inc said that the company will invest $145 million in projects to upgrade manufacturing operations in Mingo Junction, Ohio.

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The company said that the new investment would help expand its Made in USA product portfolio and improve imports. The investment was announced at the SelectUSA Investment Summit held in National Harbour, Maryland. These new investments reiterate JSWs commitment to a sustainable and green future. The operational upgrades being made at JSW Steel USA are a progressive step towards achieving our long-term ESG goals. These investments and projects will help us in producing high quality melted and manufactured in USA steel products required by our customers in the infrastructure and renewable energy sectors, said Parth Jindal, director of JSW Steel USA.
A limited number of MakeMyTrip users will initially have access to the voice-assisted feature in English and Hindi. In the near future, the company intends to expand the platform to include additional Indian languages like Bhojpuri and various southern languages.

The platform will soon converse with users in their native tongue to provide personalised travel recommendations based on their preferences; curate holiday packages based on variable factors such as occasion, budget, activity preferences, and time of travel; and even assist in booking these holiday packages.

"We are excited to introduce a feature that removes barriers such as language, literacy, inability to navigate complex app environments, physical impairments, etc," Rajesh Magow, Co-Founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, was quoted as saying by Livemint.



"Previously, we provided language support in Hindi and Tamil, but it was still in text format, and while we worked on vernacular languages, it didn't take off because regional language keyboards are complex. We've now eliminated other barriers with voice-assisted booking. This Generative AI integration, made possible by our partnership with Microsoft, entails simple visual cues and voice commands in native Indian languages, which will forever change the landscape of travel bookings," he added.



The new offering leverages the power of AI and Machine Learning to make travel-related solutions ubiquitous, regardless of use case or scenario. The combination of Microsoft's large language models and Indian language speech models, as well as MakeMyTrip's natural language understanding capability and travel domain content, also creates the foundation for users to interact with the platform in any Indian language.

The next stage of the voice-assisted booking flow will include additional transport options. The feature is embedded in the platform's landing page and can be activated with a single click.


This comes on the back of a strong recovery in travel, an increase in OYOs storefronts, as well as various cost optimisation measures recently undertaken by the company, which, according to Moodys, has improved its operating performance over the past 12-18 months. Moodys Investors Service on Monday said that it expects hospitality major OYO to generate positive Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) of around $50-55 million, around Rs 400-450 crore, in the current financial year (FY) 2024.



Its founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal, in an internal town hall recently, told employees that OYOs adjusted EBITDA is expected to be around Rs 800 crore in FY24. Excluding share-based payments, OYO has been generating positive EBITDA since April 2022.



"The rating affirmation reflects Moody's expectation that OYO remains on track to turn EBITDA positive (after share based payment expenses), on a full-year basis, for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2024, supported by a strong demand recovery and its various cost reductions," says Sweta Patodia, Moody's Assistant Vice President and Analyst. The firm had also  through an addendum to its DRHP  reported its maiden positive adjusted Ebitda of Rs 63 crore in the first six months of FY2023. For the second half of the year, Agarwal  during the townhall  shared that OYOs adjusted EBITDA is expected to rise three-fold to Rs 185 crore, marking the companys first financial year of adjusted EBITDA profitability.

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The forecast accounts for OYOs share-based payment expenses. Agarwal  during the townhall  also revealed that the companys current cash balance was Rs 2,700 crore. "The stable outlook reflects our view that the company will maintain adequate liquidity buffers to support its operations until it turns cash flow positive over the next 12-18 months," adds Patodia, who is Moody's Lead Analyst for OYO.



Agarwal  during the townhall  revealed that the companys current cash balance was Rs 2,700 crore. OYO has good liquidity. The company's existing cash and cash equivalents will remain sufficient to support its operations until it starts generating positive cash flow from operations over the next 12-18 months, the report said.



Nonetheless, OYO's fiscal 2024 EBITDA will fall short of covering its interest expenses of around $85 million, resulting in negative cash flow from operations in the absence of any material working capital movements, the report added. Moody's also expects OYO's operating costs to reduce further as the company shifts some of its roles to India, which is a lower cost location compared to Europe, and reduces its share-based payment expenses.



Moody's said it could downgrade the ratings if OYO's cash burn does not reduce significantly over the next 12-18 months. Or if the company has insufficient liquidity to fund its operations and investments over at least the next 2-3 years. However, sustained earnings growth beyond FY 2024 will allow the company to cover its interest expenses and generate positive cash flow from operations in FY 2025.



Oravel Stays, the parent firm of OYO, recently refiled its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) under the confidential pre-filing route. External factors like competition from new entrants or changes in regulations, taxation or government policy may also elicit a downgrade if the company's market position, cash flow or earnings weaken relative to current expectations.

The issue size for the companys public listing was reduced by almost half to between $400-600 billion, all of which will be raised through a primary issuance, in a bid to repay most of the firms debt, Business Standard had reported earlier. The company expects an issue timing of November this year, following approvals from Sebi.
Blackstone-sponsored Nexus Select Trust, which will hit the capital market on Tuesday, has raised Rs 1,440 crore from anchor investors.

Nexus Select Trust will launch India's first REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) Initial Public Offer (IPO) backed by rent yielding retail real estate assets. At present, there are three listed REITs on stock exchanges but all are backed by office assets.

The company will hit the capital market on Tuesday to raise up to Rs 3,200 crore through its retail REIT maiden public offer, and this includes fresh issue of units worth up to Rs 1,400 crore and an Offer For Sale (OFS) of up to Rs 1,800 crore.

The company has fixed the price band at Rs 95 per unit to Rs 100 per unit for the proposed issue scheduled to close on May 11.

As per the regulatory filing on Monday, Nexus Select Trust has raised Rs 1,440 crore from anchor investors, which included many mutual fund and insurance companies.

The anchor investors who have been allocated units are -- HDFC Mutual Fund (MF), SBI MF, HDFC Life Insurance, SBI Life Insurance, Prusik, Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) Pte and Tata Investment Corporation, among others, according to a circular uploaded on the BSE website on Monday.

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Nexus Select Trust has a portfolio of 17 operational shopping malls, including Delhi's premium Select City Walk, across 14 major cities covering a 9.8 million square feet area. It operates two hotels with 354 keys, and also office spaces as part of mixed use development.

There are around 3,000 stores across 17 shopping malls while the number of brands is nearly 1,100. The average rental of its retail portfolio is Rs 123 per square feet per month, with a maximum rent at nearly Rs 500 per square feet at Select City Walk in Saket, South Delhi.

The company's total Net Operating Income (NOI) is projected to grow organically by 17 per cent to Rs 1,897.1 crore in 2025-26 from Rs 1,619.8 crore in 2023-24. In the first nine-month of the last fiscal, the NOI stood at about Rs 1,050 crore.

In November last year, Nexus Select Trust filed the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with Sebi to launch its retail REIT public issue.

Earlier, the company had planned to raise up to Rs 4,000 crore from its proposed REIT public issue. It has reduced the size as units are being issued at a discount in the public issue as against the net asset value of Rs 127 per unit.

Post-IPO, the shareholding of Blackstone in Nexus Select Trust will come down to 43 per cent from 60 per cent. Select City Walk promoters stake will reduce slightly to 24.3 per cent from 25 per cent.

REIT, a popular instrument globally, was introduced in India a few years ago to attract investment in the real estate sector by monetising rent-yielding assets. It helps unlock the massive value of real estate assets and enables the participation of retail investors.

At present, there are three listed REITs -- Embassy Office Parks REIT, Mindspace Business Parks REIT and Brookfield India Real Estate Trust -- on Indian stock exchanges, but all of these are leased office assets.

This will be the third REIT sponsored by Blackstone. It launched India's first REIT Embassy Office Parks and then Mindspace Business Parks REIT.


In January last year, Swiggy raised $700 million in Invesco-led funding, which made the outfit a decacorn, almost doubling its valuation to $10.7 billion. US investment firm Invesco, which led Swiggys previous funding round, has marked down the food delivery giants valuation by 33 per cent from $8.2 billion to about $5.5 billion, according to a filing.



It said the latest markdown put Swiggys valuation below Zomato, which trades with market capitalisation of $6.7-billion. In April last year, Invesco estimated the value of its Swiggy shares at $186 million. It now values them at $95 million, according to filings reviewed by tech-focused media platform The Arc.



However, Invescos revised valuation is as of January 31, 2023. This is the second time Invesco has trimmed the valuation of Swiggy, which is backed by SoftBank and Prosus. Zomato at one point had market capitalisation of over $13 billion.

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The news about Swiggys valuation cut was first reported by TechCrunch. Swiggy didnt share comments related to this. Last year in October, Invesco marked down the valuation in Swiggy to $8 billion.



In January this year, Swiggy laid off 380 employees from its workforce of 6,000, citing challenging macroeconomic conditions and a slowdown in the growth of its food-delivery business. The markdown comes at a time when tech companies are witnessing steep losses and are laying off employees amid a funding winter and macroeconomic uncertainties.



In April this year, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Dale Vaz resigned after nearly five years at the company. Swiggy Chief Executive Officer Sriharsha Majety cited the companys over-hiring as a case of poor judgement.



Karthik Gurumurthy, head of the quick-commerce vertical, Instamart, was reportedly planning to step aside. However, according to sources, he wanted to go on a sabbatical and intends to rejoin Swiggy. Swiggy Senior Vice-President Madhusudhan Rao, who has been with the Bengaluru-based firm for more than four years, was appointed CTO.



Expenses came in at Rs 9,748.7 crore in FY22 compared to Rs 4,292.8 crore the year before. This is despite Swiggy reporting revenues of Rs 5,704.9 crore, a little over a twofold jump from the previous financial year. Swiggy reported its losses widened 2.24 times to 3,628.9 crore in FY22 from Rs 1,616.9 crore in FY21, fuelled by a 227 per cent rise in costs.


According to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), these homes are currently seen as a part of the builder's inventory and are therefore subject to resolution. Home buyers who have purchased and occupied a house without completing the necessary paperwork may get exempted from suffering in insolvency cases, a report by Mint said.



The change would prevent circumstances in which a home buyer who has taken possession of the house and has been living there for years faces concerns about his eligibility for the full value of the house while other creditors have to take a haircut as part of the builder's debt resolution as that house is still deemed to be the builders inventory, the person told Mint. A person aware of the matter told Mint that the government was preparing a special carveout within IBC to exclude such homes. Customers in some cases got possession but not occupation certificates, as the developer failed to pay the local authority for the land, he added.



The move is intended to reassure home buyers while also providing a tailored debt resolution regime for the real estate sector, a large employment-generating industry that is struggling. Land value in the real estate sector is very high, and the payment period for the builder is lengthy. If the builder does not make timely payments, approvals may be delayed," he added.

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Experts said while the move would benefit consumers, the process may become complicated. According to data from the regulator Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India, real estate makes up about a fifth of all companies that end up in bankruptcy tribunals.



Given the complexity and often conflicting interests of creditors involved, rules would need to be put in place to ensure that there is no confusion or ambiguity when carrying out this process, he added. Anoop Rawat, partner (insolvency and bankruptcy) at law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, said that it is novel idea to approach insolvency resolution in the real estate sector on the basis of specific projects rather than corporate entities.



A second area of emphasis in the proposed amendments to IBC is the new regime for dealing with insolvency of business groups for which a new chapter will be added to the IBC, said the person quoted above. Meanwhile, media reports also suggest that developers owe several thousands of crores of rupees to the Noida, Greater Noida, and Yamuna Expressway authorities against the plots allotted to them for construction.



Rawat further said that a regime to handle the group's insolvency could result in much better outcomes of debt resolution by co-ordinating the process at the level of different downstream entities rather than attempting their resolution individually. He added that IBC currently only deals with debt resolution for individual legal entities, not groups, which is far more complex. The new group debt resolution regime will be based on the governments previous experience resolving debts for Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd (IL&FS) group outside IBC.

The proposed regime is likely to apply only to those entities in a group that are in distress, rather than the group's solvent members. Under this, a lender could file joint bankruptcy applications against multiple group entities, he added.
Warren Buffet has a warning amid the rapid development of AI or artificial intelligence, comparing the new technology to the invention of the nuclear atomic bomb several decades ago.

Buffett, known for his cautious approach to technology investments, raises concerns that AI could pose a serious threat to humanity if not handled carefully.

Warren Buffet Warns Against AI Development

The billionaire chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, Buffett, expressed his worries about the new AI technology during an annual meeting of the conglomerate in Omaha, Nebraska, the New York Post reports.

While Buffetts admits that the power of AI tech these days is quite impressive, he still has his reservations. The 92-year-old billionaire says that the emerging technology is pretty concerning for him. He says, "When something can do all kinds of things, I get a little bit worried."

In a nod to the remarks of Buffett, the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, Charlie Munger, expressed his skepticism of the new technology. The 99-year-old exec emphasized that he still believes that "old-fashioned intelligence works pretty well," noting that he is skeptical of AI amid popularity nowadays.

Read Also: Warren Buffett Warns US on Bank Crisis, Use of Bitcoin

Buffet Likens AI to Nuclear Atomic Bomb Invention

Buffett compared AI to the atomic bomb to express his concerns about the new technology. The investor says that we invented the nuclear A-bomb for "very, very good reason" during World War II, noting that the weapon was necessary.

But despite acknowledging that it was "enormously important, he still had some concerns. Buffett then asked this question: "Is it good for the next 200 years of the world that the ability to do so has been unleashed?

Like the A-Bomb, the 92-year-old investor recognizes the role of AI in changing the world. However, he argued that the technology could be used for good or bad. And as such, he finds it crucial to ensure that it does not fall into the wrong hands.

In the same annual meeting, Fortune reports that Buffet revealed that the co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, tutored him on how to use the viral OpenAI chatbot, ChatGPT.

The warning from Buffett serves to remind everyone of the old saying, which expresses that "with great power comes great responsibility." The billionaire notes that it is still up to us humans if AI technology will be used for the greater good to prevent potential misuse.

Besides the hot topic of AI development, Murger and Buffett dived into other pressing issues, such as the relationship between the United States and China. According to 9News Australia, they also spoke about the rules of bank regulators to put bank board members and executives accountable for their reckless actions.

Related Article: Warren Buffett Maintains Confident Despite Recent US Banking Failures

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One of the results that candidates who took the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) General Duty (GD) Constable Exam most eagerly await are the SSC GD Result. The fate of thousands of candidates who want to join the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), NIA, SSF, and Rifleman (GD) in Assam Rifles is decided by the SSC GD result. The SSC GD Result 2023 is enthusiastically awaited by applicants as it decides their qualifications for the next phase of the selection process.

The marks of students who took the SSC GD Exam 2023 will soon be available online from the Staff Selection Commission. The marks will be seen by every one of the applicants regardless of whether qualified for the test or not. The scorecard will be uploaded by SSC to its official website under the "Marks Section" heading.


The state, which is about to enter a period of silence, has also been asked to emphasise on "clean and serious" campaigns by the Election Commission of India (ECI). The campaign for the high-profile Karnataka assembly elections 2023 will conclude on Monday at 5 pm. The poll-bound state has seen star campaigners from all three major political parties  the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, and Janata Dal Secular [JD(S)]  hold mega rallies and road shows in an attempt to woo voters.



Q) What are election campaigns? Let's look at some of the key questions surrounding the campaigns in the upcoming elections.



Q) How do parties reach out to the citizens during election campaigns? -Through election campaigns, candidates and political parties prepare and present their ideas and positions on issues to voters in the period preceding election day.

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Q) What is the significance of election campaigns? -Candidates reach out to voters and deliver their messages in a variety of ways, including pamphlets, advertisements in radio, television, and print media, usage of new media, public events and rallies, and some other methods.



Q) What is the legal window for campaigning? -Election campaigns allow candidates and political parties to present their ideas to citizens, assisting voters in making educated and informed decisions on election day.



In India, the legal window for campaigning closes 48 hours before the election day, creating a so-called "blackout period" immediately before voting begins. -The Election Commission of India notifies the date of election in a particular state. The date of election determines the campaign period.

-The commission uses the term "silence period" to refer to the 48-hour period during which candidates and parties are supposed to refrain from all forms of campaigning and from spreading campaign-related messages in constituencies that are about to go to the polls. Q) What is the silence period?

-Sale of Liquor Q) What else is prohibited during the silence period?

-Conferences and interviews -Holding public meetings

-Loudspeakers -Advertisements



Q) Opinion polls and exit poll -Opinion polls and exit polls

-While opinion polls keep running on various news channels and in print and digital media throughout the campaigning phase, exit polls are only allowed after the voting is done. Per Section 126A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, "No person shall conduct any exit poll and publish or publicise the result of an exit poll through the print or electronic media or disseminate the result of an exit poll in any other manner whatsoever during such period as the Election Commission may notify in this regard." Any person who violates the provisions of this section is punishable by imprisonment for a term of up to two years, a fine, or both.


A party needs to win at least 113 seats to form a government in Karnataka. Of the total 224 seats, 36 seats are reserved for scheduled castes and 15 for scheduled tribes. Karnataka will vote for a new government on May 10. Election to the 224-member Assembly will take place in a single phase. The results will be declared on May 13. The term of the Karnataka Assembly ends on May 24.



Let's take a look at all the key things you need to know about the Karnataka elections. Currently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has 119 MLAs, the Congress has 75 and the Janata Dal (Secualr) (JD(S)) has 28 seats.



- The BJP is currently the ruling party in Karnataka with 119 MLAs Q) Which political party is currently in power in Karnataka?

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- Karnataka has 224 Assembly seats to which candidates are directly elected by the people. Q) How many Assembly seats are there in Karnataka?



- Karnataka has 28 Lok Sabha seats and 12 Rajya Sabha seats. Q) How many seats does Karnataka account for in Parliament?



- There are 36 seats reserved for Scheduled Castes and 15 reserved for Scheduled Tribes among the 224 Assembly seats in the Karnataka elections. Q) How many seats are reserved for SCs and STs?



- Karnataka has 52,411,557 electors, of which 52,363,948 are general electors and 47,609 are service voters, according to the latest electoral roll data. Q) How many voters are registered in Karnataka?



- The Karnataka elections are touted to be a three-cornered contest among Congress, BJP, and JD(S). Q) Major parties contesting in the Karnataka Assembly elections?



Q) What are the key issues in the upcoming elections in Karnataka? Other parties like Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist), Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), and Social Democratic Party of India (the political wing of banned PFI) have also fielded their candidates from select seats.



The BJP, on the other hand, has sought to counter the narrative by highlighting graft in previous Congress regimes both at the Centre and the state. - The Congress is riding on corruption as the main theme, focusing on 'scams' and a 40 per cent commission charge by a contractors' body.



Price rise will be another key issue that will dominate voting. Apart from this, the state's decision to do away with 4 per cent reservation for Muslims under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota, and distributing it equally among the dominant Lingayat and Vokkaliga communities, while placing Muslims under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category, and introduction of internal reservation for different Dalit communities under Scheduled Caste (SC) category are also bound to have an effect.



- Lingayats are believed to be the states single largest community, accounting for nearly 17 per cent of the total population, and are concentrated primarily in North and Central Karnataka districts. Q) How important are the Lingayats?



The dismissal of Patil by then-prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1990 is said to have shifted the Lingayats away from the Congress towards the BJP. This also resulted in the rise of BS Yediyurappa as the communitys face in the BJP. He remains its most popular leader, despite alleged attempts to sideline him. Until the 1990s, the Lingayats, followers of Basavanna, a social reformer, voted overwhelmingly for the Congress. In 1989, it formed the government in the state with the largest majority ever, 179 out of the 224 seats in the Assembly, because of the Lingayat votes mobilised by Veerendra Patil.



Q) What about the Vokkaligas? Congress is also trying to woo the Lingayat community with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi leading the outreach by visiting important pilgrimage sites for Lingayats, prominent mutts, and, most recently, participating in Basava Jayanti celebrations.



Several Vokkaliga heartland constituencies are strongholds for the JD(S) and Congress, and the BJP has increased its efforts to make inroads in the region during the upcoming election. - They are said to be the second-largest community in the state and have historically voted either for the JD(S) or Congress. Former Prime Minister Deve Gowda and Karnataka Congress president DK Shivakumar are from the community.



- The BJP, like the Congress, has yet to declare a CM face. However, in Congress, the race is largely considered to be between Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah  both of whom have a strong group of loyalist party leaders rallying behind them. Q) Probable Karnataka CM faces



- Karnataka's last assembly elections were held in May 2018. The results were declared on May 15, 2018, and the JD(S) formed a coalition government with Congress. Later, they lost the majority and BJP formed the government. Q) When was the last Karnataka Assembly election held?



- With 72.13 per cent of total registered voters in the state exercising their right to vote, the 2018 Karnataka elections saw the highest voter turnout since 1952 assembly polls. Q) What was the voter turnout in the 2018 Karnataka Assembly election?



-Congress, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, contested the election seeking a second term in office, while the BJP sought to return to power in the state after a gap of five years. The JD(S) was the third major party in the election. Q) What happened in the Karnataka Assembly election in 2018?



After several rounds of negotiations, the JDS agreed to support the Congress party to form a coalition government, with HD Kumaraswamy of the JDS being sworn in as the chief minister on May 23, 2018. In the final result, no single party was able to secure a majority. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party, with 104 seats, but fell short of the halfway mark of 112. The INC won 78 seats and the JDS won 37 seats.



- The Congress-JD(S) coalition government lasted 14 months before 16 of their legislators resigned in two days and two independent MLAs switched their support to BJP, reducing the house majority to 105. Q) How did the BJP reclaim power in Karnataka?

With the ruling coalition left with the support of 101 MLAs and the opposition BJP with 107, Kumarasamy lost the trust vote and resigned. BS Yediyurappa took oath as the Karnataka CM on July 26, 2019.


Karnataka has not seen an incumbent government return to power since 1985 when the Janata Party won a decisive mandate after calling for midterm elections. However, though the previous Congress government failed to garner a majority of seats, it did increase its vote share in the 2018 elections. With campaigning for the May 10 Assembly elections in Karnataka ending on Monday evening, some trends have become apparent. This election is being fought not just on the performance of the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government but also on community ties and the allegiances of various castes.

A fractured map

The complexity of Karnataka's election arises from the fact that the state continues to be divided along regional lines. Karnataka was created by fusing regions from four distinct administrative entities  the northwestern part from Bombay presidency, called Kittur or Bombay Karnataka; the northeastern districts that were part of the erstwhile Hyderabad princely state of the Nizam, called Kalyana or Hyderabad Karnataka; the coast and some eastern provinces from Madras presidency; and, the landlocked southern erstwhile Mysuru princely state.



An indication of the divisions among the competing interests in the state is, perhaps, the fact that since Independence, it has not had a single chief minister who has completed two full terms in office.

In terms of seats, the Kittur Karnataka region accounts for 50, the Kalyana Karnataka region for 40, the coastal region for 19, central Karnataka for 26, Old Mysuru for 61, and Bengaluru city has 28 seats. An indication of the divisions among the competing interests in the state is, perhaps, the fact that since Independence, it has not had a single chief minister who has completed two full terms in office.

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Question of numbers

Numbers on castes have been deeply contested since Independence, but state governments over the years have attempted to estimate these through multiple committees.



The numbers of other castes have been estimated and contested over time. There are at least four reports that estimate the numbers of these castes of Hindus. These have estimated the population share of Lingayats at about 15 per cent, the Vokkaligas at 12 per cent, and the Other Backward Classes at 32 per cent.

What is not contested is the proportion of the Scheduled Castes, which is 17 per cent; the Scheduled Tribes, seven per cent; and Muslims, at 12 per cent, according to the 2011 Census.



The state did conduct a caste census in 2015, but the report was never officially released. There was a leak that was never verified, providing a different picture of caste composition. It projected a much lower proportion for Lingayats at 10 per cent and Vokkaligas at 8 per cent. However, those reports, by the state Backward Classes Commission, were estimations based on the 1931 Census, which was the last one to capture data on caste.



The issues in Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023

This election has been fought along two axes: One is the performance of the incumbent BJP government, which has been accused of being corrupt by the Opposition parties, Congress and Janata Dal (Secular). Two, as in Karnataka, it is also being fought on community lines, especially those of caste.



The BJP has attempted to increase its ideological pitch with a hard Hindutva stance in this election. Towards this end, it has fielded many new candidates, having dropped 23 sitting MLAs, many of whom had helped the party rise to power.

Most prominent among the leaders phased out is Lingayat leader and former chief minister BS Yediyurappa, who was asked to vacate the top post in favour of Basavaraj Bommai, who is also a Lingayat. Yediyurappa has announced his retirement from electoral politics, and his younger son Vijayendra is the BJP candidate from his constituency of Shikaripura in the hilly Shivamogga district. The BJP has attempted to increase its ideological pitch with a hard Hindutva stance in this election. Towards this end, it has fielded many new candidates, having dropped 23 sitting MLAs, many of whom had helped the party rise to power.



Another prominent face, former chief minister Jagadish Shettar, was also sought to be eased out by the party's central leadership. But that move came up against resistance, with Shettar, also a Lingayat, opting to switch loyalties and contest the elections on a Congress symbol.

Apart from that, the party has also tweaked reservations in the state to woo the dominant communities and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Just ahead of the elections, it scrapped the 4 per cent OBC reservation quota for minorities and redistributed that to the Lingayats and Vokkaligas, who will be eligible to avail of 7 per cent and 6 per cent reservation, respectively. The government raised the quota for the SCs and STs to 17 per cent and 7 per cent, respectively. However, the state has decided to defer the decision to reallocate the minority quota after it was challenged in the Supreme Court. For the SC and ST quotas it has not received the Centre's nod, as implementing the change would push the overall reservation share beyond the 50 per cent ceiling. Another prominent face, former chief minister Jagadish Shettar, was also sought to be eased out by the party's central leadership. But that move came up against resistance, with Shettar, also a Lingayat, opting to switch loyalties and contest the elections on a Congress symbol.



Besides, the Congress has provided five big assurances. These are: Rs 2,000 monthly assistance to be paid to every housewife, 10 kg foodgrain per month to every member in a below poverty line family, Rs 3,000 per month to all unemployed graduates and Rs 1,500 to all unemployed diploma holders, free travel for women in state transport buses, and 200 units of free power every month to BPL households. The Congress has cornered the government over allegations of corruption, most notably with its PayCM campaign. It has also accused the BJP of having side-lined Lingayat leaders and has attempted to woo the community back to its fold to recapture its pre-1994 dominance in the state. It has also threatened to ban the Bajrang Dal, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, in a bid to ensure peace in the state.

Meanwhile, the JD(S) has pitched this as a battle for survival and has called on the people of the state to follow in the footsteps of neighbouring Tamil Nadu and back the regional party.




The move comes just two days before the southern state goes to polls, and just a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the same allegation during a rally. A BJP delegation, which went to the poll panel office in Delhi, also sought lodging of an FIR against Gandhi. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday approached the Election Commission (EC) seeking action against Sonia Gandhi and de-recognition of the Congress for what the ruling party claimed openly advocating Karnatakas secession from the country.



But, after the rally, a tweet posted by the Congresss official handle read, CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnatakas reputation, sovereignty or integrity. Addressing a rally in Hubballi on May 6, the Congress leader had slammed BJP, saying, People of Karnataka are not dependent on anyones blessings, but trust their hard work and resolve. During her entire speech, she did mention the word sovereignty.



And, according to late night reports, the poll panel has issued a notice to the Congress leader demanding clarification on the social media post. It also sought rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the Official INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson CPP. The ruling BJP latched on to the word sovereignty to attack Gandhi.

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Meanwhile, as the dust over the campaign trail settled on Monday, the question was whether the Sangh Parivars fine-tuned poll machinery would help the BJP overcome anti-incumbency and caste fractures to secure a consolidated Hindutva vote and an unprecedented second term. The polling for the 224 seats is on Wednesday, and the counting of votes is on May 13. Replying to the BJPs charges, Congress Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the attack fakery and falsehood, and an attempt to dodge questions on corruption.



The Congress is convinced that it has run an efficient campaign and its focus on local issues, the alleged corruption of the BJP government, and its promised five guarantees, especially the Rs 2000 monthly allowance to women heads of households, would help it cross the halfway mark of 112. Karnataka is one big state other than Bihar where Hindutva consolidation, despite decades of work by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, has eluded the Sangh Parivar.



The Lingayat support for the BJP is the handiwork of 80-year-old former CM BS Yediyurappa, credited with getting the BJP from two seats in 1985 to 40 by 1994, who the high command sacked in mid-2021. The BJP in Karnataka remains a party that influential Lingayats, an OBC community comprising 17 per cent of the electorate, have supported since the 1990s, along with upper castes and a section of Scheduled Castes.



Karnatakas other big OBC community, Vokkaligas, has remained immune to the Sangh Parivar's polarising charms, keeping its faith with HD Deve Gowda-led Janata Dal (S) and the Congress, whose Vokkaliga leader DK Shivakumar is a chief ministerial aspirant. Well-known Lingayat leaders Jagdish Shettar and Laxman Savadi quit the BJP to join the Congress.



The BJP emerged as the single largest party with 104 seats, but its 36.35 per cent vote share was two per cent lower than the Congress. But the BJP, under Modi and Amit Shah, has often turned the tables on its rivals while the Congress has snatched defeat from the jaws of victory. Neither can the BJP match the Congress pan-Karnataka reach, as evident in their 2018 vote shares.





HEAD-TO-HEAD

Prime PM Narendra Modi was a big draw in Karnataka, as he was five years back, while UP CM Yogi Adityanath addressed a third of the 30 public meetings he did in 2018. Party sources attributed his relative absence to the ongoing UP local body elections. The election results would reveal if the Sangh Parivar's efforts at raking up the hijab issue, love jihad, and claims of Tipu Sultan's atrocities on Hindus help it consolidate Hindu votes in its favour. It would also have an eye on the Lok Sabha polls, hoping to repeat its 2019 performance, achieved on the back of Modi's popularity in the state.



For the BJP, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and party chief J P Nadda addressed several public meetings and took part in road shows. The Congress also had the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in mind to have party president Mallikarjun Kharge and leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi address 80 public meetings. Since the launch of his election campaign on April 28, Modi addressed 18 rallies and six roadshows, including three in Bengaluru and one each in Mysuru, Kalaburagi, and Tumakuru. In 2018, he addressed 21 public meetings. Party sources stressed that Modi met nearly 3,000 people during seven days of the campaign, with an eye on the Lok Sabha polls as the BJP hopes to repeat its 2019 performance a year from now.

Kharge addressed 31 meetings, Rahul 24, and Priyanka 23. Rahul's Bharat Jodo Yatra spent 21 days in Karnataka last year, but barring fleeting appearances, he skipped the party's election campaigns in Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, and the three northeastern states. Former party president Sonia Gandhi, who had not campaigned since 2019 because of ill health, addressed an election rally in Hubbali on Saturday.
Karnataka's economy, in the recent past, has grown a bit higher than the national average and when gross domestic product (GDP) fell due to the first wave of Covid-19 in 2020-21, the rate of contraction in the state was much smaller than the all-India figures. Even when national economic growth slowed down prior to 2020-21, the state held on to its growth rate of the previous year. While the GDP growth at the national level fell from 6.5 per cent in 2018-19 to 3.9 per cen

Karnataka did well economically under two parties, Janata Dal (Secular) and Bharatiya Janata Party, in the last five years. The state has had four chief ministers, three of the BJP and one of the JD (S), after elections in May 2018. BJPs B S Yediyurappa ruled for only six days and he was reinstated again after his successor, JD (S) leader H D Kumaraswamy, lasted for over 14 months in power. Yediyurappa resigned on July 28, 2021 and since then Basavaraj Bommai of the BJP has been CM.
Nationalist Congress Party president Sharad Pawar has said he is surprised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given religious slogans during campaigning in Karnataka, which votes on May 10.

Speaking to a regional news channel, Pawar said, I am surprised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given religious slogans during campaigning for the Karnataka assembly elections. We have accepted the concept of secularism. When you take up a religion or religious issue in an election, it creates a different type of environment and it is not a good thing.

We take oath for democratic values and secularism at the time of contesting an election, he told TV9 Marathi.

Asked about the ongoing agitation at Barsu village in Ratnagiri district where a section of locals are opposing a mega oil refinery project, the NCP leader said, I am keen on visiting there. But it will be decided when and how I find the time.

Pawar added, I had a meeting with representatives of Barsu villagers. I will hold another meeting with experts. I feel the issue should be taken forward by taking the villagers into confidence, he said.

Speaking to reporters in temple town Pandharpur earlier on Sunday, the NCP president claimed that the Congress will come to power in Karnataka.

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Sequentially, the public sector lenders profit rose from Rs 2,882 crore in Q3FY23. Canara Banks net profit rose 90.6 per cent year-on-year (YoY) at Rs 3,175 crore for the quarter ended March 2023 (Q4 FY23) on healthy growth in net interest income (NII) and non-interest income.



The board of directors has recommended a dividend of Rs 12 per share (Rs 10 each) for FY23, subject to shareholders' approval, the Bengaluru-based lender told BSE. Its share was trading 1.41 per cent to Rs 314.05 per share. For FY23, the bank's net profit grew 86.76 per cent to Rs 10,604 crore compared to Rs 5,678 crore in FY22.



Canara Banks NII, interest revenues minus interest expenses, grew 23.01 per cent YoY to Rs 8, 617 crore in Q4 FY23 as against Rs 7,005 crore for Q4 FY22. The net interest margin improved to 3.07 per cent in Q4 FY23 from 2.93 per cent in Q4FY22. It has guided for NIM of 3.05 per cent for Fy24, according to the Analyst presentation. Capital adequacy ratio stood at 16.68 per cent with Common Equity Tier of 11.59 per cent at the end of March.

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Its advances grew by 16.41 per cent YoY basis to Rs 8.62 trillion in FY23. Out of it, RAM advances  Retail, Agriculture and MSME (RAM)- increased by 13.23 per cent to Rs 4.77 trillion at the end of March 2023. Non-interest income rose by 7.04 per cent YoY to Rs 4,776 crore in Q4 FY23, the bank said in a statement.



Total deposits increased by 8.54 per cent YoY to Rs 11.79 trillion. The share of low-cost moneycurrent account and saving accounts (CASA)in domestic deposits stood at 33.48 per cent at the end of March 2023, down marginally from 35.88 per cent a year ago. It has guided for improvement in CASA ratio to 35 per cent by the end of March 2024. Canara Bank has guided for moderate credit growth of 10.5 per cent in Fy24.



Asset quality profile improved with gross non-performing assets (NPA) declining to 5.35 per cent in March from 7.51 per cent in the same month in 2022. The net NPAs also declined 1.73 per cent in March 2023 from 2.65 per cent a year ago. It expects to grow deposits by 8.5 per cent in FY24.



The provision coverage ratio improved to 87.31 per cent in March 2023 from 84.17 per cent a year ago. It would like to improve PCR to 90 per cent by the end of March 2024. For FY24, it wants to bring down GNPAs to 4.5 per cent and net NPA to 1.2 per cent level.

Canara Banks net profit rose 90.6 per cent year-on-year (YoY) at Rs 3,175 crore for the quarter ended March 2023 (Q4 FY23) on healthy growth in net interest income (NII).


Regulators should maintain a constant vigil because ensuring financial-sector stability is their shared responsibility. They must take appropriate and timely action to mitigate any vulnerability and strengthen financial stability, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who heads the FSDC, told the regulators at the meeting of the council in New Delhi. Amid the continuing liquidity crisis in banks of the West, the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) on Monday discussed the need for more early stress indicators in Indias financial sector to enable regulators to identify potential signs of trouble and deal with them in advance.



The regulators who attended the meeting included Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Chairman Debasish Panda, Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority Chairman Deepak Mohanty, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India Chairman Ravi Mital, and International Financial Services Centres Authority Chairman Injeti Srinivas. This was the first FSDC meeting after the 2023 Union Budget.



The council discussed a number of issues starting with financial stability, noting that there were daunting challenges coming from the global economy ... It discussed early-warning indicators for the economy, Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth told media persons after the meeting. The five secretaries in the finance ministry and Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran attended the meeting.

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The meeting comes amid a number of regional bank failures in the US, with their impact spilling over to Europe. The RBI already has some indicators but there needs to be a wide set of those that capture domestic financial markets as well as global markets, and also the real economy. The idea is to identify stresses early enough before they become prominent, Seth said.



I can mention that there is no spillover that can come to Indian banks from the Western financial crisis, he said. The global financial situation is daunting but at the same time the Indian economy and the Indian financial sector are well protected and well regulated, Seth said, and added that the FSDC discussed whether there could be a knock-on effect for India from the banking crisis and through what channels those could come.



As for unclaimed shares and dividends, a drive should be undertaken, especially in cases where the data of the nominees is available. Where the nominee details are not there, a process has to be put in place to identify them, Seth said. In the meeting it was decided regulators should conduct a special drive to facilitate settling unclaimed deposits and claims in the financial sector across all segments, such as bank deposits, shares, mutual funds, and insurance. This follows the announcement by Sitharaman in the last Union Budget that such steps would be taken.



A focused approach should be adopted by the regulators to implement the announcements made in the Budget 2023-24, and for that timelines were also decided, the ministry said. An official statement by the finance ministry on the meeting said the regulators needed to be proactive and ensure cyber-security preparedness of information technology systems to reduce the risk of cyber-attacks, protect sensitive financial data, and maintain overall systems integrity.



The secretary said this meant a seamless experience for retail investors, whether they used RBI- or Sebi-regulated market infrastructure. On the government securities markets, it was discussed how a seamless experience can be provided to potential investors through the use of technology, Seth said.
Earlier in April, the central bank had imposed penalties totalling Rs 44 lakh on four cooperative banks, including a Rs 16 lakh penalty on Chennai-based The Tamil Nadu State Apex Co-operative Bank, for contravention of various norms. A monetary penalty of Rs 2 lakh was imposed on Baran Nagrik Sahkari Bank, Baran, Rajasthan for contravention of certain norms.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 1.73 crore on the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) for violating the Credit Information Companies Rules.The supervisory evaluation revealed that the bank furnished incorrect credit information about expired credit cards with nil dues to all the four Credit Information Companies.
(Photo : HAZEM BADER/AFP via Getty Images)

Israel demolished a Palestinian elementary school in the occupied West Bank, citing safety concerns and drawing severe criticism from the European Union, which funded the school.

Israeli authorities bulldozed a Palestinian elementary school

Israel alleged safety concerns and garnered harsh condemnation from the European Union

The EU has urged Israel to protect children's right to an education

On Sunday, Israeli officials razed a Palestinian school in the occupied West Bank, prompting strong condemnation from the European Union.

COGAT, an Israeli military arm, claimed in a statement that the structure, about 2 kilometers from Bethlehem, was built illegally and "was judged to be detrimental to the safety of anybody learning or otherwise going there," and that an Israeli court "ordered its demolition."

EU Condemns Israel

On its official Twitter account, the European Union Delegation to the Palestinians said it was "appalled" by the school's destruction, which it stated will harm 60 Palestinian students. The destruction will "only aggravate the misery of the Palestinian community and further intensify an already sensitive climate," according to the EU delegation.

COGAT stated that the building's owner had ignored multiple attempts by Israeli officials to engage in discourse about the structure's status prior to the demolition.

According to students and observers, the structure was reduced to rubble, with no sign of the school that ever existed there. The EU was "appalled" when Israeli soldiers came to the school facility at daybreak, which a Palestinian Authority source said serviced 45 pupils and had five classrooms.

Since the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel has occupied the West Bank. Almost 2.9 million Palestinians live in the land. In addition, over 475,000 Jewish settlers live there in state-approved colonies that are illegal under international law.

According to Ahmed Naser, a Palestinian education ministry spokesman, the school replaced another that was razed by Israel in 2019. Naser cited its isolated position as preventing "displacement and forceful deportation" of local Palestinians, accusing Israel of "wanting to acquire these lands."

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Israel's Demolition of Palestinian Structures

The EU urged Israel to "stop any demolitions and evictions, which would only add to the misery of the Palestinian people and aggravate an already sensitive situation."

Per AFP via Yahoo, a delegation of UN experts called for action in January to stop Israel's "systematic and purposeful" demolition of Palestinian buildings. Mubarak Zawahrah, leader of the Beit Tamar local council, where the school was located, told AFP that Israeli officials had agreed to postpone the destruction until Wednesday, awaiting a judicial appeal.

Naser stated that a tent with minimal infrastructure will be constructed on the site on Monday to replace the wrecked facilities. The destruction, according to COGAT and Israeli group Regavim, was the result of a petition submitted by the right-wing organization whose aim, according to its website, is "the defense of Israel's national territories."

In a statement, Regavim accused Palestinians of building the school "outside the law" in order to create a "humanitarian disaster."

Due to a budget constraint, the World Food Programme says it will withhold food aid to more than 200,000 Palestinians beginning next month. Families are particularly affected in Gaza, where food insecurity and poverty are severe, and in the West Bank.

The UN organization provides needy Palestinians with monthly vouchers worth $10.30 ($15.26) per individual as well as food baskets. Both programs will suffer as a result, according to ABC.net.

According to Palestinian and UN figures, Gaza, which has been ruled by the Islamic Hamas party since 2007, is home to 2.3 million people, 45 percent of whom are unemployed and 80 percent rely on international aid. For years, Israel has spearheaded a blockade with Egypt, limiting the passage of people and commodities due to security concerns about the enclave's Hamas leadership.

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Pakistani authorities are expected to go ahead with its goodwill gesture to release on Friday 199 Indian fishermen arrested for allegedly fishing illegally in the country's waters, despite the death of an Indian civilian who was to be repatriated with them.

Kazi Nazir, a top police official in the jail and corrections department in Sindh, said that they had been told by relevant government ministries to prepare for the release and repatriation of 199 fishermen on Friday. These fishermen will be sent to Lahore and handed over to Indian authorities at the Wagah border. Currently, these fishermen are lodged at the Landhi jail here.

He said the goodwill gesture process appeared on the course although an Indian civilian prisoner, Zulfiqar, who was to be repatriated with the fishermen died in a hospital in Karachi on Saturday due to an illness.

"According to officials at Landhi jail the Indian prisoner had complained about high fever and chest problems and his condition deteriorated last week so he was sent to the hospital where he passed away due to apparent lung infection, he said.

An official of Edhi Welfare Trust, which usually arranges for the safe transportation of these Indian fishermen to Lahore and provides other help in jails, said that Zulfiqar's death was not a mystery as conditions in the Landhi and Malir jails are far from ideal and prisoners with poor health and chronic ailments struggle to get regular proper treatment.

Prison doctors or the hospital are generally not equipped to deal with serious ailments and recommend sending the patient to hospital but sometimes it is too late, the official said.

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According to the Pakistan India People's Forum for Peace and Democracy, at present 631 Indian fishermen and one civilian prisoner are still in the Landhi and Malir jails in Karachi despite completing their prison sentences.

Adil Sheikh, who works with the forum in Karachi, said that these Indian fishermen all ended up in Pakistani jails after being arrested for allegedly violating the marine territorial demarcation treaty between Pakistan and India.

Nearly all of them are poor illiterate people, he added.

In the past as well, a few Indian civilian prisoners have died in hospitals because of illnesses, as per prison authorities.

A total of 654 Indian fishermen are languishing in Karachi jails while an estimated 83 Pakistani fishermen are in Indian jails. Out of the 654 Indian fishermen, 631 have completed their sentences and are awaiting repatriation.

Pakistan and India regularly arrest rival fishermen for violating the maritime boundary, which is poorly marked at some points.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said he spoke to his Manipur counterpart N Biren Singh regarding the evacuation of four students from the national capital who are stuck in the violence-hit state.

Kejriwal said Singh assured him that the students would be provided all necessary help.

Manipur witnessed violent clashes last week over a move to grant Scheduled Tribe status to the majority Metei community in the state. The clashes broke out after Naga and Kuki tribals, who are opposing this plan, organised a 'Tribal Solidarity March' on May 3.

Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal said four students from Delhi are in Manipur and they will be evacuated on Tuesday.

"There are four students from Delhi in Manipur. They are safe. They will be evacuated tomorrow as no flight is available today. I will also talk to the Manipur CM," he said.

Later, taking to Twitter, the chief minister said, "Spoke to Hon'ble CM, Manipur. He was v(ery) cordial and has assured all help to our students. Thank u Sir."



At least 54 people have been killed in the clashes and 23,000 rescued from violence-hit areas in Manipur, according to officials.

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Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Democratic Progressive Azad Party president Ghulam Nabi Azad on Sunday said abrogation of Article 370 has ended terrorism and stone pelting from the erstwhile State.

"There are many things that the centre should not have done here like removing Article 370, it was not in the interest of the people here but one thing is for sure, it has ended terrorism and stone pelting. The incidents that happened in Rajouri and Poonch are a matter of concern. Terrorism is not in anyone's interest," Azad told reporters here.

Meanwhile, a massive search operation which began on Friday to hunt down terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri continued on Sunday.

"Search operation to track down terrorists underway in the Kandi area of Rajouri," officials said.

A total of five soldiers lost their lives in the anti-terror operation in the Kandi area of Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri on May 5.

The five soldiers were killed during the anti-terror 'Operation Trinetra' of the Indian Army with Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

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On Saturday, one terrorist was neutralised and one was injured in a fresh exchange of fire in Kandi, Rajouri district."One terrorist was neutralised and one likely injured" in a fresh exchange of fire in Kandi in the early hours of Saturday," Army officials said.

Moreover, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on May 6 reached Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district to review the security situation amid the ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists in the Kandi forest area.
Several airlines were operating special flights from Imphal to help people stranded in violence-hit Manipur return home, officials said on Monday, maintaining that this resulted in airfares on the route not rocketing out of control despite the massive jump in demand.

Regional carrier Flybig said it operates a Guhahati to Imphal flight via Tezu six days a week. But, since Saturday it has operated three additional flights between Imphal and Guwahati, on which people from Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Maharashtra returned from Imphal.

"A total of 150 passengers were brought back from Imphal to Guwahati over the three days. On Saturday, people from Arunachal Pradesh were brought back, while people of Meghalaya came on Sunday, and a group from Maharashtra were brought to Guwahati on Monday," Flybig's director of corporate affairs Ajay Jasra told PTI.

"Flybig operates under the UDAN scheme, and our average fare from Imphal to Guwahati is Rs 3,500. There is no question of charging more from distressed passengers," he said.

AIX Connect, formerly AirAsia, will also operate a relief flight from Imphal to Guwahati on Tuesday, besides the two regular flights it operates on the route. The special flight will arrive at 11.15 am in Guwahati, an official said.

Alliance Air operated two special flights on the Imphal-Guwahati route on Monday.

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The country's largest airline IndiGo said it has operated two special flights from Imphal to Kolkata on Saturday.

Air India said it operated two special flights on the Imphal-Delhi route on Saturday and Sunday.

Air India and IndiGo have waived fees for rescheduling and cancellation for all their flights to and from Imphal from May 4 to 7.

An IndiGo spokesperson said it was working to keep the airfares affordable amid the crisis in the Northeastern state.

According to travel websites on Monday evening, fares of direct flights from Imphal to Guwahati on Tuesday were around Rs 11,000, while on the Imphal-Kolkata route, it was around Rs 8,000.

Most of the state governments were bearing the cost of air tickets of their people they were bringing back, officials said.

An Airports Authority of India (AAI) official said various measures were being taken to help people at the Imphal airport, which has seen a huge rush of passengers trying to flee the state amid the ethnic violence that began on May 3.

The AAI has set up a helpdesk at the airport for the stranded passengers.

The Imphal airport served 10,531 passengers between May 4 and May 6, and handled a total of 108 flights, officials said.

The airport, which usually handles 14 flights a day, operated 40 flights on Monday, they said.

Ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on Wednesday after tribals organised a demonstration in the ten hill districts of the state to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The clashes displaced around 23,000 people and resulted in the deaths of at least 54 people.
The Bar Council of Delhi (BCD) on Monday told the Delhi High Court that it is reconsidering its recent notification making Aadhar and Voter Identity Card bearing a Delhi-NCR address mandatory for enrolment with it.

A lawyer, appearing for the bar body, told a bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh that the matter will be reconsidered by it in a meeting to be held on May 12.

The court then adjourned the matter for further hearing to May 23 and also asked the BCD to file a short affidavit on the matter.

Justice Singh said: "Since the matter is stated to be under reconsideration of the Bar Council of Delhi, list on May 23."

An advocate and Delhi University alumna has filed a plea before the high court challenging the BCD's notification.

Calling BCD's decision arbitrary and discriminatory, the petition filed by advocate Rajani Kumari, who is a resident of Bihar, challenges BCD's notice issued on April 13 stating that lawyers proposing to get enrolled with the BCD will have to produce their Aadhaar and Voter ID cards showing Delhi or the NCR as their place of residence.

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Earlier Justice Singh asked the petitioner to make the Bar Council of India (BCI) a party to the plea.

The BCD has stated in its notice that it is mandatory for the fresh law graduates seeking to enrol in the national capital to attach their Aadhaar and Voter ID card copies bearing an address in Delhi/NCR and lack of which will lead to no enrolment.

According to Kumari, the council's decision would act like a barrier for law graduates coming from different parts of the country and looking to practise law in the capital for better prospects.

"The requirement of Aadhaar Card and Voter ID Card with the address of Delhi or NCR discriminates against those law graduates who do not have an address in Delhi or NCR. This creates an arbitrary classification between law graduates based on their residential address, which is a violation of Article 14," the plea contended.

It stated that the blanket restriction on enrolment with BCD lacks intelligible differentia as to how a law graduate belonging to Agra having and graduated from National Law School, Bangalore is unequally placed with one domiciled in Meerut.

"The impugned notification is completely silent about the objective it seeks to achieve from the classification stipulated therein," the plea stated.

A Public Interest Litigation was also filed by lawyer Shannu Baghel before the high court last week to set aside the BCD's notification. Baghel is a practising advocate in Delhi High Court and District Courts.

--IANS

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The Nitish Kumar government in Bihar will bring back all students of the state stranded in violence-hit Manipur, an official said here on Monday.

All the students, holed up in their hostels and other places in the restive north-eastern state, will be brought back on Tuesday and the expenses of their travel will be borne by the government, he said.

"As per the directions from the chief minister, the Resident Commissioner in Delhi got in touch with students from Bihar in Manipur. They will be ferried to the airport in Imphal in buses, and flown back to Patna by a special flight," the official added.
Attacking Congress over "appeasement politics" ahead of Karnataka assembly elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will not allow Muslim reservations in the state.

Addressing a public meeting in Hunagunda, Shah said, "BJP has strengthened the security of the nation by banning the Popular Front of India (PFI), but the Congress party is against it... BJP will neither allow Muslim reservations nor will allow Lingayat reservations to be reduced in the state."

Exuding confidence in Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in the upcoming Karnataka elections, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said the party will return to power with a full majority.

Shah held a mega roadshow in Doddaballapura on Sunday.

"We will win the elections by full majority or at least half a mark plus 15 seats. In these four years, Yediyurappa and Bommai government has done a lot of work," the Union Home Minister told ANI.

The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark to form the government is 113 seats.

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Attacking Congress, Shah further said, "Congress gives false promises everywhere and loses elections. They take support of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and Popular Front of India (PFI) which Karnataka's people do not like and are furious about it."

The BJP is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority.

Notably, Karnataka is the only State in the South where BJP is in power.Campaigning for the 10 May elections in Karnataka is at its peak with multiple rallies, public meetings and interactions across the State.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a mega roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday. He also held public meetings at Nanjangud in Mysuru and Shivamogga.
Ng said she has a strong relationship with Goyal and that they are advancing toward a signed agreement. It is not going to be years, she said about how much longer it will take. The point of doing an early-stage trade deal is to be practical and spend time on areas of agreement rather than having talks drag out, she said.

Canada has had intermittent trade negotiations with India going back more than a decade, but last year the two sides decided to narrow the scope and focus on an initial deal that would include a few industries, rather than an economy-wide accord.
Chinese Foreign Minister Qing Gang on Monday met with US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns during which he sharply criticised Washington's policy towards Beijing, specifically on Taiwan, but at the same called for stabilising the ties between the two countries, saying that it is a "top priority".

Qin's meeting with Burns, his first ever since he took over as Foreign Minister after serving as China's envoy to Washington, has set off speculation that the two countries are on the verge of restarting their active dialogue that stalled since February this year after the US shot a Chinese spy balloon.

Following the balloon incident, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken put off his visit to Beijing.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a media briefing on Monday that the meeting is a normal diplomatic arrangement.

In his meeting with Burns, Qin said a series of erroneous words and deeds by the US has undermined the hard-won positive momentum of the bilateral ties, disrupted the planned dialogue and cooperation agenda, and chilled bilateral relations again.

He urged the US to deeply reflect and work with China to get the ties back on track.

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"The top priority is to stabilise China-US relations, avoid a downward spiral and prevent accidents from occurring between China and the US. This should be the basic consensus between the two countries and is also the bottom line that must be upheld when dealing with state-to-state relations, especially ties between two major countries," Qin added.

The US must stop undermining China's sovereignty, security and development interests, correctly handle the Taiwan question in particular, refrain from hollowing out the one-China principle, and stop supporting or conniving with the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, the Chinese foreign minister said.

China claims Taiwan as part of its mainland and has stepped up military actions around the self-governing island as the US has increased its contacts with Taipei, since the visit of then-US Speaker Nancy Pelosi in August last year.

On the spy balloon incident, Qin said, "accidental incidents" in bilateral relations should be dealt with in a calm, professional and pragmatic manner to avoid further shocks to China-US relations.

In a brief post on Twitter, Burns said he and Qin discussed "challenges in the US-China relationship and the necessity of stabilising ties and expanding high-level communication."



Qin's meeting with Burns followed the US envoy's comments last week that Washington is ready to talk to China.

"Our view is we need better channels between the two governments and deeper channels, and we are ready to talk," Burns said at an event at the Stimson Centre, which he attended virtually.

"We've never been shy of talking, and we hope the Chinese will meet us halfway on this," he was quoted as saying by CNN.

After Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, China cut off talks with Washington on major issues, from climate change to military relations and the spy balloon incident further exasperated their ties.

Burns told the Stimson Centre event that the US has been calling on China to open all of the channels suspended following Pelosi's Taiwan trip. He reiterated Blinken's visit to China would be rescheduled when conditions are appropriate.
Life was crawling back to somewhat normal in violence-hit Manipur as people came out of their homes in state capital Imphal to buy essential items with the curfew being relaxed for a few hours on Monday morning, officials said.

Drones and helicopters continued a close watch, while personnel of the Army and Assam Rifles held flag marches in different areas that have been rocked by ethnic violence over the last few days, they said.

The clashes broke out on Wednesday after tribals organised a demonstration in the ten hill districts of the state to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.

So far, 23,000 people have been rescued from the violence-hit areas and moved to military garrisons, officials said.

The curfew, imposed on Wednesday after the violence broke out, was relaxed from 5 am to 8 am in Imphal West district to allow people buy essential items. People came out in large numbers to buy vegetables, groceries and medicines.

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Chief Minister N Biren Singh said he was thankful to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his supervision and support to help improve the situation in the violence-hit state.

"I have been constantly in touch with the office of the Home Minister to monitor the situation and ensure that no further violence takes place in the state," he said.

"The paramilitary and state forces have been doing an exemplary job in controlling the violence and bringing the state back to normalcy. I also appreciate the people of the state for their cooperation," he added.

Governor Anusuiya Uikey chaired a meeting with Security Advisor Kuldip Singh and Operational Commander Ashutosh Sinha on Sunday. At the meeting, the two officers shared their suggestions with the governor to resolve the crisis.

The state government also brought back IAS officer Vineet Joshi from central deputation in New Delhi, and appointed him as the new chief secretary.

Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region G Kishan Reddy told PTI on Sunday that the Centre was ready for talks with the warring groups in Manipur and resolve their issues.

"Please come forward to solve the issues in a peaceful manner. The government is ready. You have seen the farmers' issue. When it was peaceful, we tried to convince them. As the issue was not resolved, we agreed to their demand, and those bills (three farm laws) were withdrawn. So, the government is not adamant," he said.
UN's nuclear watchdog has raised concerns regarding the safety of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant as it has become even more unpredictable following the ordered evacuation of residents from the Russian-occupied areas near the facility. Over a thousand people, including 660 children, have been evacuated.

The nuclear plant is Europe's largest nuclear power station that is held by Russian forces. Enerhodar was among the 18 settlements whose residents were evacuated over the weekend.

Challenging Conditions

Most staff live in the town. With the challenging conditions surrounding the nuclear plant, there are deep concerns about the threat of a severe nuclear accident and the associated consequences for the environment and the population.

The town's evacuation came amid rumors of an anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive, with the southern region likely to be a major target as Kyiv seeks to push back Moscow's invasion, as reported by CNN.

The six reactors in the plant are all in shutdown mode, and its equipment is being maintained.

Read also: Russia-Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin Approves UN Visit to Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Amid Radioactive Threats

A Necessary Measure

The evacuations were necessary due to the intensified shelling of settlements close to the front line.

According to local Telegram channels, there were sightings of evacuation buses and authorities telling residents to pack their bags and their children out of schools.

The evacuated residents were held in temporary accommodation and had everything they needed.

According to Ukrainian officials, Russian forces have used evacuations as a way to deport Ukrainians forcibly. It was claimed to be a standard practice previously used by the Russians to set up their own defense lines and set their units to use while using local civilians as a cover.

However, the Ukrainian authorities have assured that their evacuation is voluntary and aimed at protecting civilians from the ongoing conflict. The shelling has intensified in recent days, with reports of civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure.

The conflict in eastern Ukraine began in 2014 following Russia's annexation of Crimea. Pro-Russian separatists took control of parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, leading to a war that claimed over 13,000 lives. Despite numerous ceasefire agreements, the conflict has continued, and tensions have risen in recent months.

The evacuation of civilians is a worrying sign that the conflict may escalate further. The international community has called for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine has caused immense suffering for the local population, with thousands of civilians caught in the crossfire between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatists. The violence has led to widespread displacement, with many families forced to flee their homes and seek refuge elsewhere.



Despite efforts by international organizations to provide humanitarian aid and support those affected by the conflict, conditions remain difficult for many displaced Ukrainians. Many are living in temporary shelters or overcrowded apartments without access to basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care.



In addition to causing human suffering on a massive scale, the conflict has also had serious economic consequences for Ukraine. The country's infrastructure has been damaged extensively by shelling and other forms of military activity; this damage will take years, if not decades, to repair fully.

Related article: Russia-Ukraine War: Satellite Images Show Scary Damages at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant, Raise Fears of Radioactive Disaster

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Monday laid the foundation for the Hare Krishna Heritage Tower in Hyderabad.

The 400 feet (120 meters) tall structure will be constructed on six acres of land in Narsingi at a cost of Rs 200 crore.

The tower will house the temples of Sri Sri Radha Krishna and Sri Venkateswara Swamy.

The chief minister announced Rs 25 crore on behalf of the state government for the construction of the temple. He said that the state government supports organizations that promote peace and spirituality.

The tower will be another cultural landmark for Hyderabad. It will highlight the Telangana heritage in the form of Kakatiya architectural elements.

Accommodation facility will be available for 1,500 devotees. Constructions will be undertaken using cutting-edge technology with the skill of the Kakatiyas to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of Telangana.

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The tower will also have an Annadanam hall, where 500 visiting devotees will be served food at one time.

A library, Kalyanai Auditorium, IMAX open air theatres, lecture halls, Q complex, and guest rooms will be part of the temple structures. Technologically advanced laser shows will be arranged to help youth understand the history of Lord Krishna along with his teachings.

Chief Minister KCR described temples as community centers.

"All religions connect with the temple. Religion is universal. There is nothing wrong with religion. Religious ignorance and fanaticism is a threat to us. Religion does not encourage us to make mistakes. But religious stupidity takes all human beings into madness. Religious madness drives humans to commit inhuman acts," he said, adding that there is no place for violence in any religion.

KCR termed Hare Krishna's support to Telangana government as commendable.

Akshaya Patra is supplying meals through Annapoorna to school children and providing food for the poor in Hyderabad without stopping for a single day. This is a testament to their dedication. "Thank you Akshaya Patra on behalf of the people of Telangana," he said.

Hare Krishna Movement Chairman Madhu Pandita Dasa, Hare Krishna Movement-Hyderabad President Satya Goura Chandra Dasa, Krishna Goseva Mandali Secretary Suresh Kumar Agarwal, Aurobindo Pharm Limited MD Nithyananda Reddy and others were present

--IANS

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The BJP government in Goa has declared May 10 as paid holiday, which will also cover private establishments and industrial workers, in view of voting for Assembly polls scheduled in neighbouring Karnataka on that day.

However, this decision of the Pramod Sawant government has not gone down well with Opposition parties and industry bodies. Goa State Industries Association said they may have to take legal recourse against the holiday.

The government on Monday issued a notification declaring May 10 as paid holiday owing to elections for Legislative Assembly in Karnataka. The holiday was extended to government servants and also those working in private establishments including industrial workers, it said.

Goa State Industries Association president Damodar Kochkar questioned the rationale behind the state government's "absurd" decision.

Industries in Goa feel this is absolutely absurd and stupid decision...taking industries to ransom for electoral gains, Kochkar alleged and said they are considering legal remedies against such "unilateral" decisions of the state government.

Aam Aadmi Party's Goa unit president Amit Palekar also slammed the state government over the "foolish decision".

Also Read High-voltage campaigning for Karnataka elections to end today at 5 pm Come May 13, will BJP script history in 2023 Karnataka Assembly elections? Gujarat Assembly elections: BJP upbeat ahead of counting of votes Stock market holiday: BSE and NSE to remain closed today on Good Friday Market holiday: BSE and NSE closed today on account of Ambedkar Jayanti Now lessors seek deregistration of additional 13 Go First planes Delhi Jal Board plans to hire experts to train staff in customer services Media should tell truth without choosing sides: Senior RSS functionary Uttarakhand govt continues drive against 'illegal' religious structures Manipur violence claimed 60 lives, kin to get Rs 5 lakh as ex gratia: CM

After selling our mother Mhadei to Karnataka, BJP-led Goa government is stooping down to a low level to please the neighbours, he alleged in a video message.

The Goa Forward Party (GFP) too condemned the state government.

@DrPramodPSawant's enthusiasm and swift decision-making wasn't evident when #Goans asked for a holiday for #RamaNavami. #Goemkars in #Goa obviously do not enjoy the same regard or respect as his friends in @BJP4Karnataka. For @goacm and @BJP4Goa it's Jai Shri @BSBommai, GFP tweeted.

A senior official from Goa Chief Minister's Office said it is a practice to give a holiday when there are elections in neighbouring states. He claimed a holiday was declared in Karnataka on the day of polling in Goa last year.

Goa and Karnataka are locked in a bitter feud over sharing of Mhadei river water.
The government on Monday banned the import of apples if its imported price is less than Rs 50 per Kg.

"Import of apples...is prohibited wherever the CIF (cost, insurance, freight) import price is less than equal to Rs 50 per Kg," the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification.

Minimum import price condition shall not be applicable for imports from Bhutan, it said.

In 2023, India imported apples worth USD 296 million against USD 385.1 million in 2022.

The main countries which export apples to India include the US, Iran, Brazil, UAE, Afghanistan, France, Belgium, Chile, Italy, Turkey, New Zealand, South Africa and Poland.

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The Haryana Cabinet on Monday accepted the State Backward Classes Commission's report on the proportion of reservation for the communities in urban local body elections, according to an official statement.

The commission has recommended that every municipal body shall have at least one councillor belonging to backward classes Block-A if its population is not less than two per cent of the total population of the urban local body, it said.

There are as many as 78 backward classes in the state and more than 70 of them fall in Block-A sub-category.

The commission, headed by Justice (retired) Darshan Singh, conducted an empirical assessment of the political backwardness of the backward classes.

In the assessment, the commission found that the backward classes Block-A are not adequately represented in the political setup, so they require the support of reservation in the elections of urban local bodies and municipalities for adequate participation in the grassroots democratic setup, according to the statement.

The cabinet, which met here Monday evening under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, accepted the commission's report.

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According to the statement, the commission has stated that as per the directions of the Supreme Court, the reservation shall not exceed the aggregate of 50 per cent of the total seats reserved in favour of Scheduled Castes and BC (A) taken together in a particular urban local body/municipality.

In order to clarify the interpretation of the recommendations, the following examples have been cited by the commission, it said.

"Say, for example, in the urban local area 'A', the population of the backward classes Block A of citizens is 25 per cent of the total population of that urban local area then 12.5 per cent of seats shall be reserved for BC-A category subject to the other conditions mentioned.

"Where...the population of the Scheduled Castes is 50 per cent or more, the BC-A will not get any reservation irrespective of the percentage of their population," it said.
Taking cognisance of the violence in Manipur, the Haryana government on Monday said it has made arrangements to evacuate students belonging to the state from violence-hit areas.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar was taking stock of the situation in Manipur and gave instructions to officials to make complete arrangements to bring them back at the earliest.

The state government has prepared a list of students, and as per the information, 16 students pursuing education will be brought back as per their wish.

The Chief Minister assured all possible cooperation from the government.

Apart from the 16 students, if information is received about any other student, they will also be brought back safely.

Officials of the Chief Minister's office are in constant touch with officials concerned in Manipur and are taking updates of every situation.

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The Chief Secretary of Manipur has informed that all students of Haryana are safe and every facility is being provided to them.

Five students of Haryana are pursuing education in NIT, Manipur, eight students in IIIT Manipur and three students in NSU, said the spokesperson.

Since other states are also evacuating their students from Manipur, therefore, according to the availability of flights and air traffic, the state is also considering the route from Kolkata to Delhi.

--IANS

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The government has urged in its release to update the relevant documents for free using myAdhaar portal. The free service can be availed between March 15 to June 14, the press release said.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is requesting citizens to upload fresh documents as proof of identity and address to verify their demographic information once again. This is specifically important for people who got their Aadhaar issued more than ten years ago and have never updated their Aadhaar since then.



How to change the Name, Date of Birth on an Aadhaar Card? If an individual needs to update details such as name, date of birth, and address among other details, people can use the free online service or visit the nearest Aadhaar centre or Atal sewa kendra which will charge Rs 50.

Step 2: Click on Document Update and a page with existing details of the individual will be displayed. Step 1: Login on https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/ using your 12-digit Aadhaar number. Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to the registered mobile number.

Also Read PAN-Aadhaar link status: Are your cards already linked? Learn how to check Pan-Aadhaar link online: What happens if cards are not linked by March 31? PAN-Aadhaar link: Last date to link these two cards extended to June 30 PAN-Aadhaar Link: A step by step guide to link two cards before deadline Verify Aadhaar before accepting it as proof of identity, says UIDAI Co-working operators leases 7,068 office desks in Jan-Mar across Delhi-NCR UP ATS arrests 7 Rohingyas for illegally entering from Bangladesh Cyclone Mocha likely to move towards Myanmar-Bangladesh coast this week HP CM pays for local students' evacuation from Manipur from own pocket Fight for daughters of India, says Bajrang Punia on wrestlers' protest

Step 4: Choose the Proof of Identity and Proof of Address documents from the dropdown list Step 3: Verify the details, if found correct, click on the next hyperlink.



How to update the address in Aadhaar without any charges? Step 5: Upload copies of the same to update the documents and make the payment.

Step 2: Login and select Name/Gender/Date of Birth & Address Update Step 1: Go to https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/

Step 4: Select 'address' from the list of demographic options and click 'Proceed to Update Aadhaar' Step 3: Click on Update Aadhaar Online'

Step 6: Make a payment of Rs 50 (not required till June 15) Step 5: Upload a scanned copy of an official document with the new address and enter the required demographic information



After your updated details have been verified, you will receive a message confirming the update. Step 7: A Service Request Number (SRN) will be generated. Save this number to track the status of your application.

Documents accepted for the Aadhaar update Indian Passport

PAN Card or e-PAN card

Ration card or PDS Photograph card

Voter Identity Card

Driving LicenseService Photo ID issued by a govt entity

Market sheet or educational certificate issued by educational organisations A number of other documents are also accepted. For the full list, please visit

https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/26_JAN_2023_Aadhaar_List_of_documents_English.pdf

How to track the update request?



Who is eligible for Aadhaar update? After submitting the online address update request, users will receive an Update Request Number (URN). This URN can be used to track the status of your Aadhaar update. To check, please go to https://ssup.uidai.gov.in/checkSSUPStatus/checkupdatestatus

According to Aadhaar Regulations, 2016, citizens with a valid Aadhaar number can apply for the update.
The crash of a MiG-21 jet in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh on Monday has once again put the spotlight on the Indian Air Force's aging fleet of Soviet-origin aircraft which have been involved in around 400 accidents since their first induction in the early 1960s.

Three people were killed after the MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed into a house in Hanumangarh in Rajasthan shortly after it took off for a routine training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh.

The MiG-21s used to be the mainstay of the IAF for a long period of time. After its induction in the early 1960s, the Indian Air Force procured over 870 MiG-21 fighters to boost its overall combat prowess.

However, the aircraft has a very poor safety record. According to official data, the MiG-21s were involved in 400 crashes in the last six decades.

At present, the IAF has three MiG-21 squadrons with a total of around 50 aircraft, according to officials. The IAF last year finalised a timeline of three years to phase out the remaining Mig-21 fighter squadrons.

The IAF also plans to start the phasing out of the three squadrons of Mig-29 fighter jets in the next five years, they said.

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The plan to phase out the Soviet-origin aircraft fleet is part of the IAF's modernisation drive.

"The MiG-21 phase-out plan is on track," said a military official. The official said the phase-out plan is not linked to the recent accidents involving the platforms.

As part of the IAF's modernisation plan, the defence ministry in February 2021, sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 83 Tejas jets.

The IAF has already procured 36 Rafale jets to enhance its combat capabilities.

The IAF is also in the process of acquiring 114 Medium Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA).

In March last year, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhat said in Rajya Sabha that 42 defence personnel were killed in accidents involving aircraft and helicopters of the three services in the last five years.

The total number of air accidents in the last five years was 45 out of which 29 involved IAF's platforms, according to official data.

Two pilots of the IAF were killed in July last year when their twin-seater Mig-21 trainer aircraft crashed during a training sortie near Barmer in Rajasthan.

An ALH Dhruv crashed on Thursday following a "hard landing" in Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a rare accident in January, a Russian-designed Sukhoi-30MKI jet and a French Mirage-2000 had a mid-air collision.

In October last year, a weapon system integrated version of an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) of the Indian Army crashed near Tuting in Arunachal Pradesh.

Another ALH-WSI had crashed into the massive Ranjit Sagar reservoir near Pathankot on August 3, 2021 in which two Army pilots were killed.

Between March 2017 to December 2021, 31 people lost their lives in accidents involving 15 military helicopters that included four ALH, four Cheetah, two ALH (WSI), three Mi-17V5, an Mi-17 and a Chetak, according to official details.

In December 2021, Gen Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff, his wife Madhulika and 11 other armed forces personnel died when an Mi-17VH helicopter crashed near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.
India has sought investments from Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and sovereign investor Mubadala in various areas, including renewable and digital sectors, an official statement said on Monday.

Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Rajesh Kumar Singh, who is in the UAE, held meetings with the senior leadership of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor Mubadala.

"Welcoming the surge in investments from the UAE to India, Rajesh Kumar Singh invited both companies to explore new sectors for investing in India, especially the renewable and digital sectors," the commerce and industry ministry said.

Currently, the UAE is the seventh largest investor in India with an estimated investment of USD 18 billion, it added.

Singh and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeoudi jointly inaugurated events to commemorate the first anniversary of the entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and the UAE.

After the implementation of the free trade agreement, bilateral trade has witnessed a 20 per cent growth.

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India's exports to the UAE rose 12 per cent to USD 31.3 billion in 2022-2023.

Singh also inaugurated the Kerala Pavilion at the Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi.

On Tuesday, he will also inaugurate the International Jewellery Exposition Centre in Dubai.

The secretary will also be the chief guest at an event organised by the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council, in which around 100 companies from India and UAE, including representatives of various export promotion councils, are expected to participate.
The media should play "a positive role" and tell the truth without choosing sides in the interest of society and the country, senior RSS functionary Narendra Kumar Thakur said on Monday.

Addressing an event here, he also expressed concern over the circulation of "fake news" on social media and said handling of such news has emerged as "a big challenge" before the media.

The "biggest victim" of fake news is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Thakur said, suggesting that journalists should duly verify information that they "pick" from social media before disseminating it.

"Circulation of fake news on social media has become a big challenge today... Many such fake news appear, for example, RSS carried out a poll survey. We fail to understand where such information comes from. We have never conducted any poll survey ever," the RSS leader said.

The media should refrain from carrying such news in the rush of being the first to report, he said.

Thakur, who is the national co-head of the RSS' media relations department, was speaking at Dev Rishi Narad Patrakar Samman Samaroh, a function organised to award journalists for their contributions.

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The event was organised by the RSS' media wing Indraprastha Vishwa Samvad Kendra.

Addressing the event, Thakur said the media played a significant role during the freedom struggle in awakening people's "selfhood and Indianness".

"Media still has a role to play today as significant as it played before Independence.Tell the truth, write without choosing any side. News reporting should be neutral and not in favour of anyone. Journalist should refrain from choosing sides because then they become part of the agenda of the side they choose," the RSS leader said.
A MiG 21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed on a house in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, leaving three women dead and as many others injured on the ground, police said.

The pilot ejected from the plane and is undergoing treatment at the Suratgarh military hospital, IG, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said.

The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, he said



"Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.

In a statement, the IAF said, "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning".

"The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

The Suratgarh Air Force station is in Ganganagar district which is close to Hanumangarh.

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SP, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed on the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur.

Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said, adding three people were also injured.

Accrording to initial reports, the house of Ratti Ram was completely damaged besides some nearby houses.

A local resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down.

Within seconds, the plane crashes on the house of Ratti Ram and wood stored in the house caught fire.

"Local people immediately started efforts to douse flames with the help of water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the local resident told reporters in Hanumangarh.

Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.
Japan is planning to increase the number of its satellites in its GPS-style system to 11. Currently, they have four satellites that allow users to determine their precise location virtually anywhere in the country without relying on the American network.

A New Goal Has Been Set

Tokyo's space policy committee has set a goal to expand the Michibiki Quasi-Zenith Satellite System. The system consists of satellites in geosynchronous orbit above Japan and Australia.

Through the system, users in the Asia-Oceania region can know their locations with an accuracy of several centimeters.

The country hopes to have the committee's basic plan for space, including an upgrade to the Michibiki approved by the cabinet this year. However, there is no target date yet for the expansion, as reported by NikkeiAsia.

Read also: Virgin Orbit Bankruptcy Threatens Japan's Ambitious Space Plans

How This Will Change Things

With 11 satellites, the system will be able to cover almost all of the country, including mountainous and urban areas.

This will be crucial for self-driving automobiles and drone delivery services. Also, Japan also plan to promote the use of Michibiki internationally.

It would also be helpful for national security should the country be unable to use GPS for any reason. With 11 satellites, it could still gather precise information during natural disasters or other emergencies.

The availability of Michibiki will also improve the accuracy of location-based services such as navigation and mapping. It will enable better tracking of goods and assets, which could benefit logistics and supply chain industries. In addition, it could also boost tourism as visitors can navigate more easily and accurately around Japan.

The launch of Michibiki also signals Japan's growing presence and competition in the global space industry. It could lead to collaborations with other countries to develop and implement similar satellite systems.

The launch of Michibiki will have a significant impact on various industries and sectors, improving efficiency, accuracy, and safety in different areas.

Michibiki will also enhance the reliability and safety of aviation. With its precise positioning capabilities, it can help aircraft navigate more accurately and avoid collisions with other planes or obstacles on the ground. This is especially important in Japan, where natural disasters such as earthquakes could affect air travel.

The satellite system will also have implications for scientific research. It can be used to gather data on weather patterns, climate change, ocean currents, and seismic activity, which would benefit researchers across different fields.

In addition to these practical applications, Michibiki has symbolic significance for Japan's national pride and technological advancement. The launch marks a major achievement in space technology, showcasing Japan's ability to compete with other countries like China and Russia, which have their own satellite systems.

The success of this project could inspire further investment by the government into similar initiatives aimed at boosting innovation within various industries, including transportation and communication networks, among others.

Overall, Michibiki represents an exciting development for Japanese society and globally as it opens up new possibilities for advancements in science, culture, and economy through greater connectivity, safety, reliability, and accuracy made possible by cutting-edge technologies developed through international collaboration efforts between public-private sectors worldwide.

Related article: Japan Rocket Launch Gets Self-Destruct Command After Engine Fail

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Union Housing and Urban Affairs and Railways ministries have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for building four stations along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (Project-SMART) corridor, a statement said on Monday.

The four stations will be Sabarmati, Surat, Virar and Thane, said the statement issued by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

According to the ministry, Project-SMART envisages developing surrounding areas of the stations to enhance accessibility and convenience of commuters and other stakeholders, and to promote economic activities in their vicinities.

The project would facilitate and enhance the institutional capacity of state governments, municipal corporations and urban development authorities to plan, develop and manage surrounding areas of the stations, the ministry said.

The ministry, governments of Gujarat and Maharashtra, and JICA are organising a series of seminars and field visits for Project-SMART in Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

The first seminar saw deliberations by officers from MoHUA, Railways ministry, National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited, Japanese embassy and JICA's headquarters and India office, and JICA's expert team, the statement said.

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By Nidhi Verma

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India should ban the use of diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles by 2027 and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people and polluted towns in order to cut emissions, an oil ministry panel is recommending.

India, one of the biggest emitters of green house gases, wants to produce 40% of its electricity from renewables to achieve its 2070 net zero goal.

"By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric...diesel buses for city transport should not be added from 2024 onwards," the panel said in a report posted on the oil ministry's website.

It is not clear if the petroleum ministry will seek cabinet approval to implement the recommendations of its Energy Transition Advisory Committee, headed by former oil secretary Tarun Kapoor.

To boost electric vehicle use in the country, the report said the government should consider "targeted extension" of incentives given under Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) to beyond March 31.

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Diesel accounts for about two-fifths of refined fuel consumption in India with 80% of that being used in the transport sector.

The panels said new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles should be allowed from 2024 and suggested for higher use railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo. The railway network is expected to be fully electric in two to three years.

Long-distance buses in India will have to be powered by electricity in the long-term, it said, adding that gas can be used as a transition fuel for 10-15 years.

India aims to raise the share of gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 form 6.2% now.

The panel said India should consider building underground gas storage, equivalent to two months' demand as demand is expected to rise at compound average growth rate of 9.78% between 2020 and 2050. It suggested the use of depleted oil and gas fields, salt caverns and aquifers for building gas storage with the participation of foreign gas-producing companies.

(Reporting by Nidhi Verma, editing by Ed Osmond)


The Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud, Justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala expressed its displeasure at the Bar Association Committee of Bharatpur for passing a resolution against lawyers who had been appointed as volunteers under the Legal Aid Defense System of NALSA. The Supreme Court on Monday said a Bar association passing a resolution to restrict lawyers from working for the Legal Aid Defense System of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) is sheer contempt of court.



The court made the above observation while hearing a petition seeking contempt action against the Bar Association of Bharatpur in Rajasthan for suspending the licence of three lawyers who had been appointed as legal aid defence counsel by the district legal aid services authority. In every state, a State Legal Services Authority is constituted to give effect to the policies and directions of the central authority (NALSA) and to provide legal services to the people and conduct Lok Adalats in the state.



The Bar Association Committee has unanimously passed a resolution in August 2022, prohibiting any member of the association from applying for the post of defence counsel, and commanding members already engaged to either resign from the membership of the association or from their post, the petitioners said in their plea. The petitioners, who were appointed as public defenders under NALSA, claimed they were suspended from the association for not participating in the associations protest.

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The CJI also said that denying someone legal aid amounted to criminal contempt. During the hearing, Chandrachud said, The reason why lawyers dont want anyone to appear in the defence counsel system is that you want to ensure there is no legal aid. This is sheer criminal contempt.



The Bench asked the Bar Association Committee of Bharatpur to file a counter-affidavit explaining whether the resolution has been withdrawn. Please inform the Bar Association that were taking a very strict view of this. You cannot say that nobody will appear as defence counsel. This is sheer criminal contempt. We will send all these people to jail. You must withdraw the resolution, the CJI warned.



It should be noted that the apex court in March had stayed the decision of the association to suspend the petitioners. The office-bearers should remain personally present. Let the contemnor be also present, the court observed.



Due to the sudden introduction of the legal aid defence counsel scheme in Bharatpur, the Bar has been agitating against the legal services authorities. When the recruitment process was initiated, the collective leadership of the associations registered a protest against it. The movement was led by the president of the Bar Association Committee and the convener and president of the Bar Sangharsh Samiti, the petitioners said. Lawyers in Bharatpur have been protesting the introduction of the legal aid defence counsel scheme in the district.



This scheme engages lawyers full-time to exclusively devote their effort to providing legal aid, assistance, and representation to persons accused or convicted of crimes. The scheme was earlier introduced in session courts as a pilot project but is gradually being extended to other parts of India. This is different from the usual model assigning cases to empanelled lawyers who also have private practices. Advocates Purnaprakash Sharma, Puneet Garg, and Madhavendra Singh, who are the petitioners, did not participate in the protest and continued working under the scheme.

The petitioner said the acts of the Bar Association amount to wilful and severe disobedience to the law.


While hearing another case, the court sought response from the Centre and the Bihar government on a plea challenging the state government's decision to prematurely release of former MP Anand Mohan, who was serving life term in the 1994 murder case of then Gopalganj District Magistrate G Krishnaiah. The Supreme Court on Monday expressed concern over the huge loss of life and property in the violence-hit northeastern state of Manipur. The court asked the Centre and the Manipur state government to step up relief and rehabilitation efforts for those hit by ethnic violence in the northeastern state, besides protecting places of worship, many of which were targeted during the mayhem.

Apart from these cases, here are some of the other important cases heard by the apex court today:

- The top court refused to entertain the plea of jailed Bihar YouTuber Manish Kashyap challenging invocation of the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against him for allegedly circulating fake videos of migrant labourers being attacked in Tamil Nadu.



- The apex court took strong note of a resolution passed by a Rajasthan's district bar association restraining lawyers from defending the accused in cases under a legal aid scheme of NALSA, saying it is "sheer criminal contempt" and warning it will send those responsible to jail. - The Centre defended the third extension of service granted to Enforcement Directorate chief Sanjay Kumar Mishra in the apex court, asserting that it was due to a peer review being conducted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this year and said he will retire this November.

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- The top court refused to interfere with the Delhi High Court verdict granting bail to former Mumbai Police Commissioner Sanjay Pandey in a money laundering case related to alleged illegal phone tapping and snooping of National Stock Exchange (NSE) employees. - It agreed to examine the plea of a 72-year-old woman, on whom a male co-passenger allegedly urinated while she was travelling from Air India flight in November last year. The court asked Centre, aviation regulator DGCA and all airlines to frame an SOP to deal with such incidents.



Here is a list of some of the crucial cases heard by the Delhi High Court on Monday: - The court said it will hear on May 15 the petition of Indian Youth Congress president B V Srinivas challenging the Gauhati High Court order rejecting his anticipatory bail plea in a case lodged by an expelled woman party leader of Assam accusing him of causing her mental agony.



- Centre and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan told the high court that the appointment of special educators in its schools for teaching disabled students is under active consideration of the authorities. - Delhi High Court questioned jail authorities over recovery of four knives from Tihar premises where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death allegedly by inmates belonging to a rival gang.



- The Bar Council of Delhi told the Delhi High Court that it is reconsidering its recent notification which excludes those without Delhi/ NCR addresses on their Voter ID card or Aadhaar from registering with the bar body. - The court directed the recording of the youth's statement who claimed to be an eyewitness to a 23-year-old man being forced to sing the national anthem and beaten up leading to his death during the 2020 northeast Delhi riots.
The Delhi High Court on Monday questioned jail authorities over recovery of four knives from Tihar premises where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death allegedly by inmates belonging to a rival gang.

The court asked why no preventive or remedial action was taken by authorities when the incident took place as the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in jail premises.

Justice Jasmeet Singh issued notice to the Director General of Prisons (Delhi), Delhi government and Commissioner of Police on a petition filed by Tajpuriya's father and brother seeking an investigation by the CBI into the brutal murder inside Tihar Jail premises on May 2.

The petitioners, represented through senior advocate Maninder Singh, said they are DTC drivers and sought adequate security for themselves.

The high court directed the Delhi Police to ensure safety and security of both the petitioners, who are father and brother of the deceased, and listed the matter for further hearing on May 25.

It directed the Tihar jail authorities to file an affidavit as to how four knives were found in prison and asked the jail superintendent concerned to be present in the court on the next date of hearing.

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A CCTV video from Tihar Jail which emerged on social media purportedly showed Tajpuriya being attacked in front of security personnel and also when they were carrying him away after he was stabbed.

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on May 2.

The accused attacked him for a second time when he was being carried away by security personnel, according to the footage.

In the footage, it appears that the security personnel are mute spectators while the assailants kept repeatedly attacking the gangster.

According to jail officials, seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who were on duty at a Tihar prison cell when Tajpuriya was stabbed to death, have been suspended following the incident.
Slowly but surely, mutual funds warm up to investment in REITs, InvITs

Mutual fund (MF) investments in real estate investment trusts (REITs) and infrastructure investment trusts (InvITs) have gone up significantly after the pandemic breakout, with many newer schemes maintaining some allocation to these new asset classes. Data compiled by PRIME Mutual Funds Database shows MF exposure to REITs and InvITs having surged many times over in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic taking hold. Read more...

Govt-backed ONDC looks to take a bite from Zomato and Swiggy plate

Food aggregator platforms Swiggy and Zomato are facing stiff competition from government-backed Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), which is offering users cheaper prices for the same food items. ONDC is a non-profit platform set up by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) as an alternative for online shopping. The network is not an app but a facilitative platform designed to revolutionise digital commerce. Read more...

Centre plans to tweak allocation of FAME funds for electric buses

The central government is planning to tweak the allocation of funds under its electric vehicle subsidy scheme towards electric buses (e-buses), Business Standard has learnt. The proposed plan is to divert unutilised funds for electric three-wheelers (E3Ws) towards sponsoring about 3,000 additional e-buses. Around Rs 2,000 crore of the E3W category is still unutilised. We are planning to redirect it to buy 2,500-3,000 e-buses, senior officials said. Read more...

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Q4 earnings: India Inc's net profit growth slowest in 11 quarters

The corporate results for the January-March 2023 quarter (Q4FY23) are turning out to be a whimper after a strong showing by early-bird companies. The combined net profits of 390 companies that have declared their fourth-quarter results are up just 2.3 per cent year-on-year (YoY) in Q4FY23, which is the worst performance by them since April-June 2020 (Q1FY21).



To avoid 2022 crisis, Indian Railways ferries more coal for electricity In comparison, their combined net profits were up 47.6 per cent YoY in Q4FY22 and 3.4 per cent in Q3FY23. Corporate earnings have taken a beating from a slowdown in revenue growth and a sharp rise in interest expenses. Read more...


The UP Medical Device Park, spread over 350 acres in Sector 28 of the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) in Gautam Budh Nagar district, will position the state as a leading medical hub in India. Uttar Pradesh (UP) is looking to tap the domestic medical devices market, currently valued at $10 billion, with its upcoming greenfield infra in Noida.



We are constructing two flatted factories to help industrialists in the medical devices segment. It will also encourage small and medium enterprises to set up their units here, YEIDA CEO Arunveer Singh said. The manufacturing infrastructure will cater to the domestic market as well as tap the lucrative export market.



By importing almost 80 per cent of its medical devices requirement, India is majorly dependent on foreign suppliers - particularly with respect to high-end equipment like cancer diagnostics, medical imaging and ultrasonic scans. He said, to realise the vision of Make in India and self-reliant India, work is going on to put the park in the league of best. According to the union commerce ministry data analysed by the Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD), the imports of medical devices surged by 41 per cent to Rs 63,200 crore in 2021-22 from Rs 44,708 crore in 2020-21.

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Despite efforts to cut imports from China, it has retained the top source for India as shipments grew 48 per cent from Rs 9,112 crore in 2020-21 to Rs 13,538 crore in 2021-22. Upping the ante, the UP Medical Device Park is being equipped with world class facilities and seamless connectivity, including the proposal to link it with a bullet train. The imports are growing rapidly as companies continue to ramp up infra to leverage the expanding sector of medical tourism, which is estimated to contribute almost $2 billion to the Indian healthcare market.
The Pauri district administration in Uttarakhand razed an over two-decade-old 'mazar' as part of the state government's anti-encroachment drive against illegal religious constructions, an official said on Monday.

Sub-District Officer (Kotdwar) Pramod Kumar said a public notice was pasted on the mazar, asking claimants to come forward within 15 days.

When no one submitted a claim, a joint team of the Forest department, police and local administration demolished the tomb of Baba Gayasuddin Aula-e-Karim Shah, Kumar said.

"Not submitting the claim means that this mazar was built illegally by encroaching on Forest department land," he added.

The mazar occupied more than two bighas.

A day before, the administration removed an illegal mausoleum from government land in the Satpuli area of Pauri district.

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The government is also taking action to mark and remove illegal religious encroachments in forest areas under Corbett Tiger Reserve in Nainital district.

Reserve officials said a Forest department team demolished three illegally constructed religious structures in the Dhela range on Sunday. Earlier, illegal religious structures were removed from the Bijrani range of the reserve.

Corbett Tiger Reserve Deputy Director Digant Nayak said illegal religious constructions in forest areas are being identified and removed.

In Haridwar, the district administration on Saturday demolished a mazar and a temple allegedly built illegally on roads.

Ravi Bahadur and Furkan Ahmed, the Congress MLAs from Haridwar, on Monday met District Magistrate Vinay Shankar Pandey to protest against the shrines' demolition without giving them time.

However, Pandey said the demolition of illegal religious constructions is being done on the orders of the Supreme Court and a week's notice is being given before they are demolished.

Former BJP MLA Sanjay Gupta, on the other hand, accused the Congress leaders protesting against the demolition of contempt of court and demanded their arrest.
"The Kerala Story" producer Vipul Shah on Monday said they will take legal action against the ban imposed by the West Bengal government on the screening of the film in the state.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial movie to avoid "any incident of hatred and violence".

"If that's what she has done, then we will again take legal action. Whatever is possible under the provisions of the law, we will fight that," Shah said at a press conference when asked about the ban in West Bengal.

The Kerala High Court had refused to stay the release and said the trailer does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. It noted that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition.

"The Kerala Story", which depicts the plight of a group of women in Kerala who are forced to convert and join the ISIS, has kicked up a political storm.

While many BJP leaders have spoken in its favour, Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress have said the film falsely claims that 32,000 women got converted and radicalised and were deployed in terror missions both in India and the world.

Also Read The Kerala Story gets 'A' certificate from censor board, 10 scenes deleted Why has the upcoming movie 'The Kerala Story' courted controversy? Mamata Banerjee to leave for three-day tour to West Bengal districts 'The Kerala Story' controversy: Why are state leaders mulling for a ban? Legal crisis erupts in Bengal over slander campaign against HC judge Haryana wrestling body suspends 3 officials for agitation against WFI chief Manipur: Group claims 5,000 Meitei became homeless in Churachandpur, Moreh CPWD opens bids for Parliament's electrical installations' maintenance FMCG sales slow on lower stocking; home care only category to report growth IAF working on phasing out remaining three squadrons of MiG-21 jets

The film's director Sudipto Sen and Shah had called the press conference after several theatres apparently declined to screen the movie in Tamil Nadu fearing protests.

Asked about the losses it may face due to the ban, Shah said, "We will not talk about profit or loss now, we will only try to ensure that more and more people watch the film. If a state government or a private person will try to stop the film, then we will try every legal route possible."



Producer Shah called "The Kerala Story" a film on a "serious social subject" and requested the Tamil Nadu government to ensure a "smooth and fair" release of the movie.

"In Tamil Nadu, one individual has threatened and forced the government to stop the release," he said without naming anyone.

"I'm requesting the government ensure that the film is released since the honourable court has already given the order. It is the state government's duty to ensure a smooth and fair release of the film. Let people decide whether they want to see it. But this is a completely unacceptable situation," he added.

On April 6, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) staged a protest against the release of the film in Chennai. Seeman, the party's coordinator, who is also actor and director, along with NTK cadres, had protested near Anna Nagar Arch.

The film has earned Rs 35 crore in its opening weekend and Shah said there has been a 20 to 30 percent jump in numbers on Monday.

In a rally in Ballari in poll-bound Karnataka on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced the movie in his speech, Such a beautiful state of the country, where people are hardworking and talented. The Kerala Story' film brings out terror conspiracies happening in that state."



Shah said the film has become of national importance now.

"Our honourable PM has spoken about this film. Other important political parties have talked about the film and have presented this subject as something of national importance. There are some people who have supported and some have opposed. Now no one can ignore it on the national level, which is a huge achievement for us," he added.

The filmmaker said people would have rejected the film if it was a propaganda movie.

"It is running successfully in Kerala and next Wednesday or Thursday, we will dub the film in Malayalam. We are trying that. We haven't faced any issues in Kerala, which is why this is so surprising that people have seen the film and appreciated it in Kerala but in Tamil Nadu, one person has held hostage the state and its government," he added.

The Indian Film & Television Directors' Association on Monday condemned West Bengal's decision to ban the movie in the state.

"IFTDA condemns the ban on Vipul Shah's film 'The Kerala Story' by the Bengal government. We strongly feel that it's against the freedom of expression of a filmmaker. We stand by the filmmaker and his film exactly the way we stood by films like 'Udta Punjab' and 'Padmaavat'," the film body said in a statement.
Indian Navy's Lieutenant Commander (Lt Cdr) Disha Amrith, who led the naval contingent of 144 sailors at this year's Republic Day parade in New Delhi, on Monday said women are unique in themselves and they shine in whatever responsibility they are entrusted with.

She said many young women were inspired by her leadership role at the annual parade and wanted to emulate her. Lt Cdr Amrith, who is an observer with the Navy's Dornier 228 marine patrol aircraft, narrated her experience of leading the contingent at Kartavya Path (the stretch of road from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate which was earlier known as Rajpath) during a panel discussion on Women's leadership in the uniformed services here. The panel discussion was held as part of side events ahead of the third meeting of the G20 Development Working Group, which will begin in Goa on Tuesday. India currently holds the presidency of G20 or Group of 20, an influential bloc that comprises 19 countries and the European Union. I led the Naval contingent at the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path this year and the response that I received from a lot of young girls and women in uniform and even those not donning uniform was spectacular, she said, speaking in the session moderated by Samir Saran, president, Observer Research Foundation (ORF). After the parade, Lt Cdr Amrith recalled how young girls and women came to her and said even they want to do what she has done.

They wanted to lead the contingent. So, the kind of mindset they had was to lead, not just to participate, she said. The naval aviation officer said she believes women are unique in themselves and that is why they will always shine in whatever role they are given. Speaking about the role of women during humanitarian relief operations undertaken by the Indian Navy, another speaker, Lt Cdr Tavishi Singh, said women are better placed to handle such situations. When parents (to whom the Navy reaches for help) see the women working, their thought process changes, she said. Lt Cdr Singh said she received several calls after relief missions from parents asking her how their daughters can join the Armed Forces or become medical professionals. Surgeon Commander Shazia Khan of the Indian Navy, participating in the panel discussion, said the practice of getting women on board during medical missions started only in the last 4 to 5 years. She said having women as first responders in the Indian Navy or the Army is exciting as that is something youngsters look forward to doing.
Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light's parent company, reportedly blamed a third-party agency for their partnership with Dylan Mulvaney, prompting nationwide boycotts that cost them over $5 billion in losses.

According to Fox News, Anheuser-Busch told US beer distributors they had cut ties with the agency to make amends with vendors weary over their tarnished reputation.

The company sent a letter to distributors stating they fired the marketing firm responsible for the sponsorship that started last month. Mulvaney, a transgender TikTok influencer, revealed that she was sent a can of Bud Light with her face printed on it as part of an ad for the company's Marc Madness contest and a way to celebrate a full year of girlhood.

Anheuser-Busch claimed that the beer can with Mulvaney's face was not produced in any pot of their facilities and blamed the ad agency entirely for the collaboration.

The company will triple media spending on advertising for Bud Light over the summer, which confirmed reports that the brewing company is planning a significant marketing push to recover its reputation.

How It Started

The controversy began when Mulvaney posted a photo with the beer can featuring her face. A second post showed Mulvaney in a bikini, frolicking in a bathtub while drinking a Bud Light beer as part of the partnership.

Following the posts, many wondered if it were part of an April fool's gag.

However, Bud Light faced backlash for their association with Mulvaney, who has been accused of promoting racist and anti-Semitic content on social media.

The company quickly issued a statement denouncing hate speech and stating that they do not support or condone it. They also announced that they would be ending their partnership with Mulvaney. On the other hand, Mulvaney denies a partnership with the brand.

Read also: Trans Community Urges Anheuser-Busch to Reaffirm Support of Transgenders Aftermath of the Bud Light Controversy with Mulvaney

What's Next

Bud Light's increased media spending on advertising is part of its efforts to rebuild its brand image and distance itself from the controversy.

It remains to be seen if these efforts will be enough to repair the damage done to Bud Light's reputation. However, the company's response to the controversy suggests they are taking the issue seriously and committed to making a positive change.

Overall, the controversy surrounding Bud Light damaged its reputation. However, the brand seems determined to move forward from this situation by implementing concrete actions focused on promoting inclusivity & responsibility throughout every aspect of its business operations.

Related article: Bud Light Gives Free Beer to Wholesalers Amid Dylan Mulvaney Backlash

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More than a food delivery platform India has robust food-delivery platforms in the form of Swiggy and Zomato but social media posts took people by surprise as screenshots from a different, relatively unknown food-delivery option, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) came to the fore. The same food ordered using ONDC was considerably economical when compared to the orders made via Zomato and Swiggy. This has left people wondering about ONDC and its purpose.



ONDC intends to bring the benefits of digitisation to millions of sellers and resellers in the country. To this end, ONDC acts as a platform that helps businesses of all types and sizes in increasing their e-commerce penetration. It especially focuses on businesses from small towns and rural areas to help them leverage the power of the Internet to optimise their sales. While social media users are focusing on the big discounts that ONDC offers on food deliveries, its usage is not limited to that. Open Network for Digital Commerce has been designed to facilitate an ecosystem for e-commerce.

Who has built ONDC?

According to ONDC's official website, it was incorporated as a Section 8 company in December 2021 with the Quality Council of India and Protean eGov Technologies Limited as Founding Members. ONDC is supported by both government and private sector entities.

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How does it work? Its investors consist of names like the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard), HDFC Bank Limited, Bank of Baroda, and Central Depository Services (India) Limited, among others.



Currently, ONDC has partners like Paytm, Meesho, Magicpin, Mystore, Craftsvilla, and Spice Money. This allows customers to order products from a business that is listed on the ONDC platform. ONDC is different from a regular application on your mobile phone. It is rather a platform that helps businesses.







Cities where ONDC is available To use it, simply open the Paytm app and type "ONDC" in the search bar. This will take you to a variety of products that are available on the platform. ONDC provides economical deliveries by doing away with the middle-man cut. This ensures that businesses get the maximum benefit from their sales.



We will keep on adding more locations and add more cities, T Koshy, chief executive officer (CEO) of ONDC, told Business Standard. The network first began its pilot on April 29, 2022 in Delhi, Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Bhopal and Shillong. It expanded its operations to Noida, Faridabad, Lucknow, Bijnor, Bhopal, Chhindwara, Kolkata, Pune, Chennai, Kannur, Thrissur, Udipi, Kanchipura, Pollachi, Mannar and Ramnathpuram.

Challenges for ONDC



For example, when you order food from a restaurant via ONDC, the restaurant has to send its own delivery person. In such a case, if a restaurant receives multiple orders in a short period, it may prove challenging for restaurants to keep up with the orders. When a customer orders a product from Zomato, Swiggy or Amazon, these platforms have a dedicated team of delivery personnel who deliver the product. However, it is not the same as ONDC.

Additionally, being a relatively new platform, the number of restaurants available on ONDC is low when compared to Zomato and Swiggy. However, the platform is likely to become better with time.
More than 19 lakh PACL investors with claims of up to Rs 17,000 have received Rs 920 crore in refunds, markets regulator Sebi said on Monday.

The regulator had found that PACL Ltd, which had raised money from the public in the name of agriculture and real estate businesses, collected more than Rs 60,000 crore through illegal collective investment schemes (CISs) over 18 years.

A panel headed by retired Justice RM Lodha had initiated the process of refunds in phases for investors, who had invested in PACL.

"As on date, the committee has successfully effected refunds in respect of a total number of 19,61,690 eligible applications with outstanding (principal) amount up to Rs 17,000 aggregating to Rs 919.91 crore," according to a statement available on Sebi website.

The committee, in February, had called for original PACL certificates from investors whose outstanding (principal) amount with PACL was more than Rs 15,000 and up to Rs 17,000 in order to refund the money to them after verification of original certificates.

The window for accepting original certificates was kept open from February 27 to March 20, 2023.

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The committee, subsequently, after considering the difficulties faced by the investors in submitting original certificates, decided to refund the money without insisting on original certificates. Accordingly, payment of Rs 85.68 crore was returned to 1.14 lakh applicants.

Earlier, a total of 3,747 applicants, with claims of up to Rs 15,000, received payment of Rs 2.45 crore.

In December 2015, the Securities and Exchange Board Board of India (Sebi) had ordered the attachment of all assets of PACL and its nine promoters and directors for their failure to refund the money that was due to investors.

Sebi had asked PACL as well as its promoters and directors to refund the money in an order dated August 22, 2014. The defaulters were directed to wind up the schemes and refund money to the investors within three months from the date of the order.
Stocks to watch on May 8: Equity markets are preparing for a firm start on Monday as investors eye global cues and Q4FY23 earnings.

At 7:35 AM, SGX Nifty was at 18,148 level, up 24 points. Equity markets are preparing for a firm start on Monday as investors eye global cues and Q4FY23 earnings.



Japan's Nikkei, however, was lower after it resumed trading post a five-day holiday. Elsewhere in Asia, most indices were positive after Wall Street's positive handover, with Australia's S&P/ASX 200 up 0.66 per cent, and South Korea's Kospi 0.88 per cent.





Earnings today: Aarti Industries, Apar Industries, Apollo Pipes, Avadh Sugar and Energy, Balkrishna Industries, Birlasoft, Canara Bank, Craftsman Automation, Exide Industires, Pidilite, UPL, and VIP Industries are among the top companies due to report their Q4FY23 earnings on Monday, May 8.

Aditya Birla Fashion, TCNS: Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail (ABFRL) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire controlling stake (51 per cent) in TCNS Clothing for Rs 1,650 crore. Here are the top stocks to watch in Monday's trade:: Aarti Industries, Apar Industries, Apollo Pipes, Avadh Sugar and Energy, Balkrishna Industries, Birlasoft, Canara Bank, Craftsman Automation, Exide Industires, Pidilite, UPL, and VIP Industries are among the top companies due to report their Q4FY23 earnings on Monday, May 8.

Also Read From Adani Wilmar to Havells India: Q4 results to watch out for today Hero Moto, SpiceJet, AEL, TVS Motor among top 10 stocks to watch on Friday Stocks to Watch Today: Airline, Tata Steel, PSB, Airtel, Sugar, Max Health From Ambuja Cements to Tata Steel: Q4 results to watch out for today Stocks to Watch: Titan, Tata Chem, Adani Group, RIL, Petronet, Apollo Micro MARKET LIVE: Sensex rallies 500 pts; IndusInd up 5%, HDFC twins on the mend Charts signal bullish trend for Nifty50, Nifty Bank over short-term Street Signs: Free-float markdown, Zomato gains 25% in 4 weeks & more Buying, selling by MFs and FPIs have a bigger impact on the markets Centre plans to tweak allocation of FAME funds for electric buses

Dr Reddy's Labs: Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd, on Friday, announced the launch of Regadenoson injection, used as an agent in the imaging of heart muscle to check blood flow, in the US market.

PNC Infratech: The company has won an EPC project worth Rs 771.46 crore from Haryana Orbital Rail Corporation Limited. Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd, on Friday, announced the launch of Regadenoson injection, used as an agent in the imaging of heart muscle to check blood flow, in the US market.

Amara Raja Batteries: The company has bwegun work on Amara Raja Giga Corridor that aims to produce Lithium Cell and Battery Packs with an ultimate capacity of up to 16GWh, and up to 5GWh, respectively.



Vardhman Textiles: The company's yarn production increased to 65,104 metric tonne at the end of Q4FY23 from 58,919 MT at the end of the corresponding quarter in the previous year. Yarn sales, meanwhile, increased to 65,936 MT during the quarter. However, sales of grey fabric and processed fabric dropped 7 per cent and 19.6 per cent YoY to 463 MT and 336 MT, respectively.

Thermax: Thermax Limited has bagged an order of Rs 271.50 crore from Indias biggest oil refinery in the private sector for mechanical balance of plant (MBoP) works for the captive power plant (CPP) at their new oil-to-chemical (O2C) facility in the western part of India The company's yarn production increased to 65,104 metric tonne at the end of Q4FY23 from 58,919 MT at the end of the corresponding quarter in the previous year. Yarn sales, meanwhile, increased to 65,936 MT during the quarter. However, sales of grey fabric and processed fabric dropped 7 per cent and 19.6 per cent YoY to 463 MT and 336 MT, respectively. : The company has bwegun work on Amara Raja Giga Corridor that aims to produce Lithium Cell and Battery Packs with an ultimate capacity of up to 16GWh, and up to 5GWh, respectively.

Bharat Forge: Kishore Saletore will step doen from the post of chief financial officer (CFO) with effect from closure of business hours on Friday, June 30, 2023. The Board has approved the appointment of Kedar Dixit as CFO and Key Managerial Person of the Company with effect from Saturday, July 1, 2023.

Result reaction Paytm: The company, on Friday, posted a consolidated revenue of Rs 2,334 crore for the March quarter of FY23, up 51 per cent rise from Rs 1,540 crore posted in the March quarter of FY22. The companys loss narrowed to Rs 168 crore from Rs 763 crore in the year-ago period.

Coal India: Coal India Ltd, the world's largest coal miner, on Sunday reported 17.7 per cent drop in its March quarter net profit to Rs 5,527.62 crore, on higher provision made for wage revision of employees. Coal production rose 7 per cent to 224.16 million tonne in the quarter ended March 31.

Bank of India: Public sector lender Bank of Indias (BoI) net profit more than doubled year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 1,350 crore for the quarter ended March 2023 (Q4FY23) on improvement in net interest income (NII). The board of directors declared a dividend of Rs 2.0 per share (Rs 10 each) for FY23, subject to shareholders' approval, the bank informed BSE. Coal India Ltd, the world's largest coal miner, on Sunday reported 17.7 per cent drop in its March quarter net profit to Rs 5,527.62 crore, on higher provision made for wage revision of employees. Coal production rose 7 per cent to 224.16 million tonne in the quarter ended March 31.

Adani Power: The Adani Group company has posted around 13 per cent jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 5,242 crore for March quarter 2022-23. Total income however fell to Rs 10,795 crore from Rs 13,307 crore in the year-ago quarter. Total expenses were higher at Rs 9,897 crore as against Rs 7,174 crore a year ago.

Britannia: Britannia Industries net earnings in the January-March quarter of FY23 jumped 47.1 per cent to Rs 558.7 crore as its profit before interest, depreciation and tax (PBIDT) went up 42.7 per cent. This came on the back of softening input costs helping operating margin. The Nusli Wadia group firms revenue from operations in the quarter increased 13.3 per cent to Rs 4,023.2 crore amid significant distribution gains.



Dhampur Sugar: The company's total income stood at Rs 762.55 crore during Q4FY23, a rise of 41.35 per cent as compared to Rs 539.48 crore at the end of Q4FY22. Its net profit, meanwhile, came in at Rs 60.38 crore, up 103 per cent, as against net profit of Rs 29.72 crore reported last year. Britannia Industries net earnings in the January-March quarter of FY23 jumped 47.1 per cent to Rs 558.7 crore as its profit before interest, depreciation and tax (PBIDT) went up 42.7 per cent. This came on the back of softening input costs helping operating margin. The Nusli Wadia group firms revenue from operations in the quarter increased 13.3 per cent to Rs 4,023.2 crore amid significant distribution gains. : The Adani Group company has posted around 13 per cent jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 5,242 crore for March quarter 2022-23. Total income however fell to Rs 10,795 crore from Rs 13,307 crore in the year-ago quarter. Total expenses were higher at Rs 9,897 crore as against Rs 7,174 crore a year ago.

TVS Electronics: The small-cap companu recorded a net profit of Rs 1.51 crore, recording a drop of 66.37 per cent YoY from Q4FY22's net profit of Rs 4.49 crore. The Board has recommended final dividend of Rs 2 per equity share, with record date fixed as July 29.

Zen Technologies: The Hyderabad-based company reproted total revenue of Rs 74.33 crore in Q4FY23 vs Rs 18.57 crore in Q4FY22. For the full fiscal year, its revenue surged 201 per cent to Rs 161.44 crore. The profit for the quarter, meanwhile, came in at Rs 17,27 crore (vs Rs 1.4 crore YoY). The small-cap companu recorded a net profit of Rs 1.51 crore, recording a drop of 66.37 per cent YoY from Q4FY22's net profit of Rs 4.49 crore. The Board has recommended final dividend of Rs 2 per equity share, with record date fixed as July 29.


Over the last one year, the stock has given returns of around 98 per cent, rising from Rs 298.6 apiece. The stocks 5 year-run has also been stellar with an increase of over 5 times (up 436 per cent to Rs 592) from a level of Rs 110.45 touched on May 10, 2018. Shares of small-cap glass packaging maker AGI Greenpac (formerly HSIL Ltd) rallied 19 per cent on Monday to notch a fresh 52-week high of Rs 592 on the BSE. With this, the stock has surged 43 per cent over the last 2 days.



During the quarter, its EBITDA saw a growth of 111 per cent YoY to Rs 196 crore with a margin of 29 per cent. The net profit (from continued operations) rose 152 per cent YoY to Rs 96 crore with net profit margins of 14 per cent. The recent two-day rally follows the companys strong Q4FY23 results announced on May 4 last week. The firm reported revenue from operations of Rs 680 crore, compared to Rs 432 crore in the year-ago quarter.



In a recent interaction with media, the companys management said it expects FY24 revenue to grow over 15-18 per cent. The company attributed the improvement in the sales and profitability to an improved product mix and an increase in demand for its glass containers products from the non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages and packed food segment, which drove the volumes.

Also Read CCI allows AGI Greenpac to acquire Hindusthan National Glass & Industries Stocks to Watch Today: Airline, Tata Steel, PSB, Airtel, Sugar, Max Health Bank stocks can slide more; stay away for now: Analysts ITC rally has more legs on FMCG biz scale up, high cigarette vols: Analysts Hero Moto, SpiceJet, AEL, TVS Motor among top 10 stocks to watch on Friday Sensex recovers 800 pts from Friday's low; key reasons behind the rally Gujarat Ambuja Exports sinks 12% as net profit more-than-halves in Q4FY23 MSCI cuts free float in Adani Transmission, Adani Total Gas; stocks sink 5% FMCG index likely to hit 50,000; ITC, Britannia, Marico may rally up to 20% TCNS deal may raise debt, near-term profitability risks for ABFRL: Analysts



In March this year, the company had received Competition Commission of Indias approval to acquire one of the countrys largest glass container maker Hindusthan National Glass & Industries (HNG). It further aims to expand the share of its non-alcohol business from nearly 30 per cent to around 40 per cent in the next two years.







Its top clients and brands, to which it supplies its packaging products/containers, include United Spirits, Radico Khaitan, Sula Vineyard, Kingfisher, Bacardi, HUL, Dabur, Sun Pharma, Dr Reddys, GSK Pharma among several others. The firm is a focussed packaging product company, which mainly deals in glass containers (92 per cent of revenues). Within this segment, it derives 75 per cent of the revenues from the alcoholic and beverage industry, followed by food and beverages at 19 per cent and pharmaceuticals at 6 per cent. The firm told CNBC-TV18 that it will infuse a capex of Rs 500-700 crore for HNG, which has a peak revenue potential of Rs 3000 crore. HNG, it said, should break even within 9 months of its takeover.

The company operates under three brands- it manufactures glass containers and speciality glass under the brand AGI Glaspac; PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and products business under the brand AGI Plastek and security caps and closures under the brand AGI Clozures.


Manipur has been rife with ethnic tensions for long. The Meiteis, who are Vaishnavite Hindus, are the majority population of the state (53 per cent) but occupy only 10 per cent of its lan

Churches, homes and other properties belonging to Kuki tribals were burnt down in clashes with the majority Meitei community. A police armoury has been looted, and both sides are using snatched weapons. More than 50 individuals have lost their lives. There is a danger that the ethnic violence may spread to neighbouring states  non-Meiteis are evacuating Imphal. These are more than adequate indicators of the state government's failure.
Demanding an apology from the Bharatiya Janata Party for allegedly "defaming" former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia over the excise policy case, Delhi Minister Atishi on Sunday, claimed that the court has stated in its order that there is "no evidence" to substantiate or corroborate the alleged corruption.

She said that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia and alleged that "pressure was put on people to give false statements".

Addressing a press conference, Atishi said, "There were two major allegations. First: Rs 100 crore bribe was received. Second: The amount was spent for Goa elections".

"But the Rouse Avenue court order, through which two people got bail. The order should be read properly, as it makes it clear that ED and CBI have no evidence of the corruption of even 1 Rupee. The judge repeatedly said in the 86-page order that there is no evidence," she added.

The Delhi Minister claimed that the Rouse Avenue court has stated in the order that there is no "specific evidence" to show the corruption.

"The first allegation is that under the corruption, Rs 100 crore was given to AAP through kickbacks. BJP, as well as ED and CBI, were alleging that among those giving kickbacks was present businessman Gautam Malhotra," she said.

Also Read Excise policy case: court grants bail to 2; AAP demands BJP's apology Delhi court reserves order on Sisodia's bail plea in Excise policy scam Delhi excise policy scam case: K Kavitha's ex-auditor joins ED probe RBI MPC: Here is what experts have to say about the policy announcement Tipplers beware! These liquor brands may soon go off the shelves in Delhi Gehlot's statement a conspiracy: Raje counters Rajasthan CM's claim Karnataka polls: Who will take Rahul Gandhi's guarantee, asks Assam CM Entire AAP govt in Delhi filled with scams: Union Minister Meenakashi Lekhi Raje, 2 other BJP leaders helped save my govt during 2020 rebellion: Gehlot Not weakening India's collective position a collective responsibility: EAM

Atishi added citing the court order, "There is no specific evidence showing any such cash evidence of bribe or repayment of kickbacks. The only evidence presented has been some vague statements by witnesses, and on the basis of these statements, it cannot be inferred that cash payments were given as bribes."

She further alleged that ED had earlier mentioned Rs 100 crore, but later stated the amount as Rs 30 crore in the chargesheet.

"The story of ED started with Rs 100 crore, but then itself came down to Rs 30 crore, as the agency has mentioned Rs 30 crore in its chargesheet. It was also alleged that a person named Rajesh Joshi took these Rs 30 crore of bribes to Goa. The court has also stated that there is no independent evidence collected by the agency to substantiate or corroborate this fact," she said.

The AAP leader also alleged that ED has mentioned only "Rs 19 lakh" being spent by the party during the Goa elections.

"The second allegation was the bribe money was used for Goa elections. But, after conducting raids for six months, the court said that only Rs 19 lakh was spent through cash, and the rest was spent through cheque," Atishi added.

Slamming BJP, Atishi demanded the party leaders to apologise for "defaming" the former deputy CM.

"Now, we hope that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia. People are being pressurised to give statements. We saw three people take their statement back and alleged being pressurised. It was also alleged that 14 phones were broken, but all those phones are working. Then, Sanjay Singh's name was also brought, but later ED accepted its mistake," she said.

Atishi also said that the party will be appealing for Manish Sisodia's bail.

Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is in jail over alleged irregularities in the excise case.

Sisodia was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy in Delhi.

The CBI arrested Sisodia on February 26 this year. Later on March 9, the ED arrested him, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail.

Later in April, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also summoned by ED for questioning in the case.

The ED and the CBI had alleged that irregularities were committed while modifying the excise policy, undue favours were extended to licence holders, the licence fee was waived or reduced and the L-1 licence was extended without the competent authority's approval.

The beneficiaries diverted "illegal" gains to the accused officials and made false entries in their account books to evade detection, the probe agencies said.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 4 filed a Supplementary charge sheet against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the Delhi Excise policy case.

The supplementary charge has more than 2100 pages. The operating part has 271 pages. The charge has been filed within the stipulated period of 60 days.

The CBI has already filed the charge sheet in the matter.
Former Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Vasundhara Raje countered Ashok Gehlot's claims, saying Rajasthan Chief Minister is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections and his false allegations show he is rattled by the rebellion in state Congress unit.

Targeting rivals within Congress, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot credited former chief minister Vasundhara Raje and two other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders for having helped him save his government during the 2020 crisis when some Congress MLAs revolted and tried to topple his government.

Vasundhara Raje said, "Gehlot's statement against me is a conspiracy. Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has done. He is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 Assembly elections and has made such false allegations as he is rattled by the rebellion in his own party".

Addressing a programme in Dholpur on Sunday, Gehlot divulged that the 2020 crisis was conspired by Union Ministers of the BJP government and claimed that Vasundhara Raje, former Assembly Speaker Kailash Meghwal and MLA Shobharani Kushwaha were not in favour of toppling the elected Congress government.

Gehlot said, "Former Chief Ministers of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje Scindia, Shobha Rani and Kailash Meghwal knew their party people were toppling the government. Vasundhara Raje Scindia and Kailash Meghwal had said that it has never been our tradition to topple the elected government on the basis of money. They did not support those who toppled the government due to which our government survived."

Targeting rivals within the party, CM Gehlot said he had requested the MLAs, who revolted to return the money they had taken from the BJP so that they could perform without any pressure.

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"Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Gajendra Shekhawat conspired together and distributed the money inside the Rajasthan government. I advised our MLAs (who revolted) that even if some of the money taken has been spent by them, they should inform us. I will give you money and tell AICC, but don't take BJP's money. If you will keep their money, they will scare you later, threaten you... They took away 25 MLAs. Amit Shah plays a very dangerous game, give his money back," Gehlot said while exposing the BJP's gameplan of toppling his government.

Ashok Gehlot in July 2020 had accused the BJP of trying to overthrow his government by offering Congress lawmakers bribes but the BJP denied any involvement.

The Gehlot and Pilot feud has been simmering since before 2020 and Pilot was sacked as deputy CM and removed as state unit chief.

Pilot again opened a fresh front against Gehlot, his old political rival within the party, alleging that the state government failed to investigate cases of alleged corruption during the Bharatiya Janata Party rule in Rajasthan and announced his plan to hold a day-long fast on April 11 to demand action.

The Congress party called a meeting to resolve the situation regarding Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Sachin Pilot, party sources confirmed.

The fresh crisis has emerged months before the assembly polls in the state due late this year.

Pilot is seen as a chief ministerial aspirant but Gehlot, who did not contest the Congress presidential election, is apparently keen not to hand over the reins of the state to him.

The differences between the two had come out sharply in 2020 with Pilot leading a "rebellion" against Gehlot.

The two leaders have taken potshots at each other on several occasions in the past.
A picturesque tourist destination will host crisis-weary Southeast Asian leaders with sun-splashed tropical islands, turquoise waters brimming with corals and manta rays, seafood feasts, and a hillside savannah crawling with Komodo dragons.

The sunshiny setting is a stark contrast to the seriousness of their agenda.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo picked the far-flung, rustic harbour town of Labuan Bajo as a laidback venue to discuss an agenda rife with contentious issues.

These include the continuing bloody civil strife in Myanmar and the escalating territorial conflicts in the South China Sea between fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 10-nation regional bloc and its member states will meet for three days starting Tuesday, with the growing rivalry between the United States and China as a backdrop.

US President Joe Biden has been reinforcing an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to better counter China over Taiwan and the long-seething territorial conflicts in the strategic South China Sea which involve four ASEAN members: Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

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Indonesia, this year's ASEAN chair, has also confronted Chinese fishing fleets and coast guard that have strayed into what Jakarta says was its internationally recognised exclusive economic zone in the gas-rich Natuna Sea.

Widodo, who's in his final year on the world stage as he reaches the end of his two-term limit, said ASEAN aims to collaborate with any country to solve problems through dialogue.

That includes Myanmar where, two years after the military power grab that forced out Aung San Suu Kyi's administration and sparked a bloody civil strife, ASEAN has failed to rein in the violence in its member state.

A five-point peace plan by ASEAN leaders and the top Myanmar general, which calls for an immediate stop to killings and other violence and the start of a national dialogue, has been disregarded by Myanmar's ruling military.

ASEAN stopped inviting Myanmar's military leaders to its semiannual summits and would only allow non-political representatives to attend. Myanmar has protested the move.

In an additional concern involving Myanmar, Indonesian officials said Sunday that 20 of their nationals, who were trafficked into Myanmar and forced to perform cyber scams, had been freed from Myanmar's Myawaddy township and brought to the Thai border over the weekend.

During the summit, ASEAN leaders planned to express their concern over such human trafficking schemes in a joint statement, a draft copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said her country, as ASEAN chair, has tackled the Myanmar crisis in a non-adversarial way.

Colleagues certainly know that in the early stages of its leadership, Indonesia decided to take a non-megaphone diplomacy approach, Marsudi said.

The aim is to provide space for the parties to build trust and for the parties to be more open in communicating.

Widodo's choice of a seaside venue with stunning sunrises and sunsets and the sound of birds chirping all day complements that approach.

The Indonesian leader also hoped the high-profile ASEAN summit would put Labuan Bajo and outlying islands, dotted with white-sand beaches and even a rare pink-sand beach, under the global tourism spotlight.

This is a very good moment for us to host the ASEAN summit and showcase Labuan Bajo to the world, said Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who flew in Sunday with his wife to a red-carpet welcome flanked by military honor guards and dancing villagers with flower-filled headwear.

But there are a few hitches.

The far-flung fishing town with only three traffic lights and about 6,000 residents is acutely short of hotels for ASEAN's swarm of diplomats, delegates and journalists. Many had to arrange to share rooms.

Unlike the more popular Bali resort island or the bustling concrete jungle of a capital Jakarta, which has hosted international conclaves in upscale hotels and convention centers, Labuan Bajo is a far smaller town that a visitor could cross from end to end with a brisk two-hour walk.

There are no public buses, and villagers mostly move around by walking, riding scooters or driving private cars.

A small team of local technicians with hard hats were flown in to lay cables and expand internet connections at the venues on short notice.

On Sunday, Labuan Bajo's small airport was jampacked with visitors. Teams of diplomats and journalists arrived to welcome streamers announcing the upbeat summit motto, ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.

Outside the airport named after the Komodo dragons, traffic quickly built up under the brutal noontime sun.

When the sun rose Monday morning, workers were still cementing some roadsides around the venues a day before the summit opening.

Andre Kurniawan, who works at a dive center in Labuan Bajo, said the infrastructure developments would be a boon for Labuan Bajo villagers. We were isolated from some areas before and now they are open and the areas are getting better. I hope that Labuan Bajo can be a better tourist town in the future, he said.

Azril Azahari, chair of an association of Indonesian academic experts on tourism, told the AP that Labuan Bajo was not ready and apparently was chosen to host the summit on short notice. The hotel facilities and the lodging have become a problem.

There is a ship being used for accommodation and it's not a lodging ship, he said.

Welcoming visitors to her coffee shop ahead of the summit, Suti Ana said even though it wasn't the best time for Labuan Bajo to host, ASEAN would boost local businesses. But we cannot wait, so this is the time, she said.

Choosing the small port town was not a bad idea, Azril said, if it came with adequate planning and government investments in infrastructure.

Located on the western tip of Flores island in southern Indonesia, Labuan Bajo, aside from its beaches and diving and snorkeling spots, has been better known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only place in the world where Komodo dragons, the world's largest lizards, are found in the wild.

Environmentalists and tourism analysts fear that a wider public interest could put further stress on the already endangered Komodo dragons. Only about 3,300 were known to exist as of 2022.

If more people come, sooner or later the Komodo dragons cannot breed in peace, this can be a problem, Azahari said, citing longstanding fears that the Komodos could face extinction without full protection.

Despite the odds, Indonesian officials said they would do everything to successfully and safely host the ASEAN summit in Labuan Bajo.

If there's any commotion along the way, that will be a big stain on the nation's dignity, Edistasius Endi, the regent of Labuan Najo's West Manggarai district, said in a statement.
Clashes that erupted last month between armed fighters in a city in Sudan's restive Darfur region killed at least 100 people, according to Sudan's Doctors Syndicate.

Hospitals were still out of service in the Darfur city of Genena and an accurate count of the wounded was still hard to make, the doctors' union added in a statement posted on its official Facebook page late Sunday.

The fighting in Genena, which broke out a few days after Sudan's two rival generals took up arms against each other in the capital of Khartoum, points to the possibility that the conflict could engulf other parts of the East African country.

The syndicate's death toll comes as talks continue between the warring parties in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah.

A statement issued by the Saudi foreign ministry on Monday said the negotiations between delegations from the country's military, on one side, and on the other the powerful paramilitary, the Rapid Support Forces, are expected to go on for a few more days.

The talks, which are focused on creating humanitarian corridors to allow aid and civilians to move, are part of a broader diplomatic initiative proposed by Saudi Arabia and the US to stop the fighting.

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The doctors' union did not specify the two parties to the clashes in Genena, a city of around half a million people located near the border with Chad that has been a flashpoint since the early days of the fighting.

Late last month, residents described how armed fighters, many wearing the uniform of the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, rampaged through the city, looting shops and homes and battling with rival forces. They said the fighting was dragging in tribal militias, tapping into longtime hatreds between the region's two main communities one that identifies as Arab, the other as East or Central African.

In the early 2000s, African tribes in Darfur that had long complained of discrimination rebelled against the Khartoum government, which responded with a military campaign that the International Criminal Court later said amounted to genocide.

State-backed Arab militias known as the Janjaweed were accused of widespread killings, rapes and other atrocities. The Janjaweed later evolved into the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group, known as the RSF.

At least 481 civilians were killed in Khartoum clashes that erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, according to the same doctors' statement. The number of the wounded among civilians has jumped to more than 2,560.

On Friday, the governor of West Darfur, where Genena is located, accused the RSF of damaging government offices, setting fire to more than 10 shelters housing displaced communities, and looting homes and stores.

Today, West Darfur is a doomed province. What is left of the Darfur population lives under very harsh conditions," Gen. Khamis Abdullah Abkar said in a video posted on a local news site on Friday.

The international community should not remain silent about the challenge in this province. It should act immediately; people need shelter, food and medicine, he said.

The paramilitary has repeatedly denied claims that its forces have terrorized civilians or used brutal tactics.
Chinese police have detained a man for allegedly generating fake news of a train crash and disseminating it online using artificial intelligence technology to "concoct information" and post it on multiple accounts, in what was reported to be China's first arrest for misuse of ChatGPT.

Police in northwestern Gansu province said in a statement on Sunday that a suspect surnamed Hong had been detained for "using artificial intelligence technology to concoct false and untrue information".

The case first caught the attention of the cyber division of a county police bureau when they spotted a fake news article that claimed nine people had been killed in a local train accident on April 25, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on Monday.

The cybersecurity officers in Kongtong county found the article simultaneously posted by more than 20 accounts on Baijiahao, a blog-style platform run by Chinese search engine giant Baidu.

The stories had received more than 15,000 clicks by the time it came to authorities' attention, it said.

The Gansu public security department said Hong was suspected of the crime of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble", a charge that normally carries a maximum sentence of five years. But in cases that are deemed especially severe, offenders can be jailed for 10 years and given additional penalties, the Post reported.

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This is the first time the public has been made aware of an arrest by Chinese authorities after Beijing's first provisions to regulate the use of deepfake technology officially took effect in January, it said.

The police said they traced the origins of the article to a company owned by the suspect Hong, which operated personal media platforms registered in Shenzhen in Guangdong province in southern China. Some 10 days later a police team searched Hong's home and his computer and detained him.

The statement said Hong confessed to bypassing Baijiahao's duplication check function to publish on multiple accounts he had acquired. He input the elements of trending social stories in China from past years into ChatGPT to quickly produce different versions of the same fake story and uploaded them to his Baijiahao accounts, it said.

While ChatGPT is not directly available to Chinese IP addresses, Chinese users can still access its service if they have a reliable VPN connection.

Chinese IT outlets were experimenting with their versions of the ChatGPT after Microsoft and Google announced their innovations.

China closely monitors its social media through firewalls, especially Sina Weibo, which has over 592 million users to ensure no critical content against the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC).

China's top internet regulator has long voiced concern that unchecked development and use of deep synthesis technology could lead to its use in criminal activities such as online scams or defamation.

As ChatGPT has gone viral in recent months, China's law enforcement agencies have repeatedly voiced suspicion, and even warnings, about the technology.

In one of the first comments on the chatbot made by the Chinese security apparatus, police in Beijing specifically warned the public in February to be wary of rumours generated by ChatGPT, the Post reported.
A British teenager was found dead in a Thailand forest as cops look for his missing girlfriend. Woramet Ben Taota went for a ride on a motorcycle with his girlfriend, Yam, on Saturday, May 6.

On Sunday morning, May 7, the police received a report that Ben, 16, had been found dead in a woodland in the Mae Tha district in Lampang. He was discovered with multiple injuries to his head and face, as reported by The Sun.

The police found his belongings, including a smartphone charger, ID card, and bank card. However, his phone and cash were missing. The police believe that he could have been robbed of his mobile phone.

They also think Ben was killed elsewhere and dumped in the woods, as there were no signs of struggle where his body was found. However, Yam, 16, is still missing.

Ben's body was taken to the hospital for an autopsy, and the police are tracking down individuals close to the victim.

Read also: Thailand Day Care Massacre: Parents, Nation Grief After Ex-Cop Opens Fire During Kids' Nap Time Killing 24 Children

The Dangers in Thailand

This tragic incident highlights the dangers that travelers can face in Thailand, especially in isolated areas or at night. Travelers need to take precautions such as not carrying large sums of money or valuables and being aware of their surroundings at all times. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable transportation services. Travelers should also inform family and friends of their itinerary and stay in regular contact. If any suspicious activity is observed, it is important to report it to the authorities immediately.

Thailand is a popular destination among travelers for its stunning beaches, historic temples, and vibrant nightlife. However, it is important to note that there are risks involved in traveling to any foreign country. While Thailand generally has low crime rates compared to other countries in the region, criminals can still target tourists.

One common scam that tourists might encounter is the "jet ski scam," where rental operators claim damage or loss of equipment after returning it despite no actual damage being done during use. In some cases, violence may even occur when confronted with this issue.

It's also worth noting that natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes have occurred in Thailand before, which could pose a danger to travelers if they happen unexpectedly.

As much as possible, try not to draw too much attention from strangers while traveling around tourist hotspots like Bangkok since pickpocketing and mugging incidents happen, especially at night.

It's always recommended for travelers visiting Thailand (or anywhere) to take the necessary precautions mentioned above to ensure their safety throughout their trip.

Related article: Thailand Nursery Massacre: 3-Year-Old Survives Horrifying Tragedy After Sleeping Under a Blanket

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HSBC has agreed to buy out its China fund management joint venture partner, two people familiar with the matter said, as the Asia-focused bank pushes ahead with expansion in the world's second-largest economy.

By Selena Li

The transfer is, however, subject to a public auction of the shares and regulatory review and approval, said the sources, who declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak to media.

HSBC, which currently owns a 49% stake in HSBC Jintrust Fund Management, has signed an agreement with Shanxi Trust under which the Chinese state-owned company will sell its 51% holding in the joint venture to the bank, said the sources.



A spokesperson for HSBC in Hong Kong declined to comment. Representatives for Shanghai-headquartered HSBC Jintrust and Shanxi Trust did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

If approved, Europe's biggest bank by assets, which makes the bulk of its revenue and profit in Asia, will expand its presence in the $3.8 trillion fund management market in China.

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HSBC's move to boost its stake in the fund venture is the lender's latest to expand its presence in China.

It was not immediately clear how much HSBC will pay Shanxi Trust to wholly own HSBC Jintrust, which, according to the joint venture's website, had $7.7 billion in funds under management as of end-March.



HSBC has deployed billions of dollars in China in the last few years as part of an Asia pivot, boosting its market share across banking, insurance and securities businesses in the country's $57 trillion financial sector.

The London-headquartered bank converted its China insurance joint venture to a wholly-owned subsidiary in 2021, and boosted ownership of its China securities joint venture to 90% last year.



CHINA INVESTMENTS

China, including Hong Kong and the mainland, contributed around 44% of HSBC's profit in 2022.



The bank's signing of the deal for the China fund business comes as it contends with a months-long campaign from shareholder Ping An to hive off its Asia business. HSBC managed to defeat a break-up bid at Friday's annual investor meeting.

HSBC Chief Executive Noel Quinn visited Beijing in March, when a top official told him China "welcomed an expansion of HSBC's investment in the country".

taking advantage of the removal of a foreign ownership cap in 2019 to boost stakes in Chinese fund ventures.

HSBC joins a string of global financial companies including Manulife, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley in



However, before turning to the regulators, it must cut or offload a majority stake indirectly owned via its subsidiary Hang Seng Bank in 70%-controlled fund unit Hang Seng Qianhai Fund Management, the sources said.

HSBC Global Asset Management, the bank's fund business unit, is planning an accelerated push to win regulatory approval to bring the ownership change into effect, the sources said.



(Reporting by Selena Li; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee, Kirsten Donovan) Domestic and foreign firms are subject to China's "One Majority, One Minority" ownership rule, which means they can't have more than two fund units in China and only hold majority control of one.
Trade ministers of India and Canada will review the progress in talks on the proposed free trade agreement between the two countries besides discussing ways to strengthen economic ties, an official statement said on Monday.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, Government of Canada, will co-chair the discussions for the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) on Monday in Ottawa.

MDTI is a bilateral mechanism which provides institutional mechanisms to discuss a broad spectrum of trade and investment related issues and cooperation areas.

The discussions will focus on various themes including strengthening the bilateral trade relationship, investment promotion, green transition including critical minerals, it said.

The ministers will also review India-Canada CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) negotiations, it added.

At the last MDTI meeting in March 2022, both ministers launched the CEPA negotiations with a possibility to have an interim agreement or EPTA (Early Progress Trade Agreement).

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Since then, seven rounds of negotiations have been held. In such agreements, two countries significantly reduce or eliminate custom duties on the maximum number of goods traded between them. They also liberalise norms for promoting trade in services and attract investments.

Further, Goyal will also be visiting Toronto from May 9 - 10, where he will have various engagements to promote trade and investment.

These engagements will include meetings with CEOs of key Canadian companies, Round Table of Indian and Canadian CEOs, interaction with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada and Financial Sector Round table, the commerce and industry ministry said.

The minister is accompanied by a delegation of Indian CEOs.

He would also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, which is the largest food innovation trade show in North America with participation of more than 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries.

Indian companies that have presence in Canada include Tata, Aditya Birla, Reliance, Wipro, Infosys, and TCS. Similarly Canadian firms such as Bombardier, SNC Lavalin, and CAE have a presence in India.

India attracted USD 3.2 billion foreign direct investment during April 2000 and December 2022.

India's exports to Canada stood at USD 3.8 billion during April-February 2022-23 as against USD 3.76 billion in 2021-022. Imports from Canada stood at USD 3.77 billion during the 11-month period lat year as against USD 3.2 billion in 2021-22.

Major items of Indian exports include medicines, garments, diamonds, chemicals, gems and jewellery, petroleum oils, made-up, sea food, engineering goods, marble and granite, rice, electric equipment, and plastic products.

Imports included pulses, fertilizers, newsprint, aircraft and aviation equipment, diamonds, copper ores and concentrates, bituminous coal, wood pulp, nickel, unwrought aluminum, asbestos, and cameras.


India monitored several Chinese ships that appeared in a portion of the South China Sea where a flotilla of Southeast Asian nations warships were engaged in military drills, according to a government official.

By Sudhi Ranjan Sen and Rebecca Choong Wilkins



The Chinese ships were seen about 100 nautical miles away from the area where the exercises were taking place and did not belong to the countrys navy, said the official, who asked not to be identified citing the sensitivity of the issue. Beijing issued no formal warning or objection to the flotilla from the Asean countries, the person added. India and Singapore co-hosted the final day of the weeklong Asean-India Maritime Exercise involving nine ships, six aircraft, and over 1,800 personnel from across the groupings nations, and were expected to trawl international waters along the transit route to the Philippines.



AIME was successfully and safely completed with the conclusion of the sea phase in international waters earlier this morning, it said. RSS Supreme will continue in transit to the Philippines and prepare for the upcoming Asean Multilateral Naval Exercise. Defense ministries in both India and Singapore did not immediately respond to a request for comment, though the Republic of Singapore Navy wrote in a Facebook post Monday afternoon the exercise had safely concluded.

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Worries over national security in the Asia-Pacific are rising with countries seeking to bolster their defenses as relations between China and the US struggle to find a floor. Military tensions between India and Beijing have also risen since 2020, when the worst fighting in decades erupted on their Himalayan border. Chinas Ministry of Defense also didnt immediately respond to a faxed request for comments.



Ships participating in the Asean-India security exercises were expected to track simulated vessels of interest and practice dealing with unplanned encounters to reduce the likelihood of accidents or miscalculations. The abrupt 90-degree turn of Chinese vessels into the path of the Asean-India maritime exercise was strikingly coincidental, but its unclear whether it was directly related, said Raymond Powell, who leads Stanford Universitys Project Myoushu on the South China Sea.

Last month, Chinese and Philippine ships came close to collision in the South China Sea, just as the Southeast Asian nation was participating in military exercises with the US. China claims more than 80% of the South China Sea, one of the worlds busiest shipping routes, where almost a third of global maritime crude oil trade passes. A 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling in the Hague had invalidated Chinas claims.
A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was working in the US as a project engineer, was among nine people killed when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mall in Dallas in Texas, authorities said on Monday.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, of McKinney, was shopping with a friend when they were shot by gunman Mauricio Garcia at the Allen Premium Outlets in Dallas, the New York Post newspaper reported.

The shooting erupted around 3:30 pm on Saturday as throngs of shoppers filled the outdoor mall. The shooting killed at least eight people before Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old gunman, was shot dead by a police officer.

Aishwarya, daughter of a district judge in Ranga Reddy district court in India, worked as a project engineer at Perfect General Contractors LLC.

A family representative confirmed to the WFAA television station that Thatikonda was also among the dead from the senseless gun violence.

Aishwarya had spoken to her family members before the incident on Saturday, and when they called her back after learning about the shooting they did not get any response, according to the judge's friend.

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"The family got the information about (her death) on Sunday. They are in shock. They have been told that efforts were being made to send her body by Wednesday," the judge's friend said.

She was an engineer living and working in Texas while her family was in India. Her friend, who was not identified, was injured but is currently in stable condition at the hospital, the paper said.

Thatikonda's family is planning to bring her body back to India, it added.

She did her civil engineering from a college in Hyderabad in India and completed her masters in the US after which she had been working there for more than two years.

Garcia, the gunman, was shot and killed by an officer who was patrolling the area.

A Dallas home linked to Garcia's parents was searched by police Saturday night after the massacre, and officials also scoured a motel where the shooter had booked an extended stay, law-enforcement sources told local outlet WFAA-TV.

In a statement about the shooting, the mall said, We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders.

So far there have been at least 198 mass shootings in the United States in 2023, according to the gun violence archive.

Saturday's tragedy occurred just a couple of weeks before the first anniversary of the Uvalle, Texas School massacre when 19 children and two adults were killed by a gunman at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022.

It comes just days after a gunman became enraged during a visit to an Atlanta medical facility, allegedly shooting dead at least one person with a handgun and injuring four others before he was caught hours later.

Saturday's incident is the second-deadliest shooting of the year in the country, after the Monterey Park, California, massacre in which a gunman killed 11 people in a ballroom on January 21.


The Russian Federation once again effectively stopped the Grain Initiative by refusing to register incoming vessels and carry out their inspections. This approach contradicts the terms of the current agreement, the ministry said.

Russia has effectively stopped the Black sea grain deal by refusing to register incoming vessels, Ukraines reconstruction ministry said on Monday. Ukrainian Black Sea ports were blockaded after Russias invasion last year, but access to three of them was cleared last July under a deal between Moscow and Kyiv that was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.



Meanwhile, the European Union has proposed extending strict trade restrictions to several Chinese companies for the first time as it cracks down on firms supplying Russia with banned goods and technologies that have aided its war machine.

It said that 90 ships, including 62 vessels for loading, were waiting in Turkeys territorial waters for approval to go to Ukrainian ports. The deal expires on May 18. Moscow has threatened to quit the agreement intended to help ease a global food crisis. Turkey and the UN are working to extend the deal.



The European Commission says those targeted are directly supporting Russias military and industrial complex in its war of aggression against Ukraine. It calls for stricter export restrictions regarding dual-use goods and technology, as well as goods and technology which might contribute to the technological enhancement of Russias defence and security sector, one of the documents says. It cites the key enabling role of electronic components.

The blocs executive arm has asked member states to target about 35 more entities, including businesses in mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as companies in Uzbekistan, Armenia and the United Arab Emirates.

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The eight Hong Kong and mainland Chinese firms currently listed in the proposal are  Sinno Electronics, 3HC Semiconductors, Sigma Technology, King-Pai Technology, Asia Pacific Links, Tordan Industry, Alpha Trading Investments Allparts Trading. Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said his countrys economic trade with Russia was completely above board. The list includes several Iranian firms that were targeted for manufacturing and supplying drones to Moscow, as well as hundreds of Russian firms. It would be the first time Chinese firms are added.



If the reports you mentioned are true, the EUs actions will seriously undermine China-EU mutual trust and cooperation, and deepen division and confrontation in the world, he said. It is highly dangerous, he added. We urge the EU not to go on this wrong path, otherwise China will take firm actions to safeguard our legitimate and lawful interests.


At least 100 people were killed in clashes that erupted last month between armed fighters in a city in Sudan's restive region of Darfur, according to the Sudan's Doctors Syndicate.

Hospitals were still out of service in the Darfur city of Genena and an accurate count of the wounded was still hard to make, the doctors' union added in a statement posted on their official Facebook page late Sunday.

The fighting in Genena, which broke out a few days after Sudan's two rival generals took arms against each other in Khartoum, pointed to the possibility that conflict in the capital could spiral to other parts of the East African country.

At least 481 civilians were killed in Khartoum clashes that erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, according to the same doctors' statement. The number of the wounded among civilians has jumped to more than 2560.

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Ivory Coast will need to replace government subsidies with targeted cash transfers as one of the requirements to get final approval for its $3.5 billion support package from the International Monetary Fund.

By Baudelaire Mieu



The government has committed to replacing the subsidies with targeted transfers and widening the tax net, he said. Ivory Coast also has room to increase its Value Added Tax, which stands at 18%, and review corporate tax exemptions, he said. The worlds biggest cocoa producer, which secured IMF staff-level agreement for the 40-month program last month, will need to put an end to broad-based fuel and food subsidies, Ivory Coasts IMF Resident Representative Kadima Kalonji told reporters in the commercial hub of Abidjan Monday.



Ivory Coasts public debt is expected to increase to 63.3% of gross domestic product this year from 56.8% in 2022, according to IMF data. The war in Ukraine resulted in higher food costs prompting the government of President Alassane Ouattara to spend more to keep prices of fuel, electricity and bakery products under control in a nation where about 40% of people live on less than $581 a year. Thats robbed the administration of fiscal space to spend on development.

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Thats in contrast to neighboring Ghana, which is restructuring its liabilities to bring its debt-to-GDP to 55% by 2028 and get IMF board approval for a $3 billion bailout package. An earlier IMF estimate put Ghanas 2022 debt-to-GDP ratio at more than 100%. Ivory Coast only has a moderate risk of over-indebtedness and wont require to restructure its debt to access the funding, Kalonji said. The yields on the nations dollar securities due March 2028 rose nine basis points to 7.74% as of 2:57 p.m. in London.
The Iranian court stated that two people referred to as "Quran burners" were hanged in Iran for blasphemy convictions and conducting anti-religious acts.

The men, identified as Yousef Mehrdad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare, were hanged on Monday after a case that began three years ago when the judiciary was alerted to an unnamed group publishing "obscene" content, according to Al Jazeera. Mehrdad was among several people summoned by the judiciary at the time,

As per the Iranian judiciary, Mehrdad was discovered to be the primary administrator and organizer of 15 online groups and channels that spread content opposing Islam, its prophets and promoting atheism.

The judiciary also claimed that Mehrdad collaborated with Fazeli Zare, who was accused of running 20 online groups that go against religion.

The gravity of their insults against religion was such that the Iran Supreme Court did not cite any of them directly in the ruling that led to the execution of both men. Additionally, the judiciary stated that Mehrdad's phone contained a publicly shared video of the Quran being burned.

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Human Rights Group Condemn Iran Executions

The United Nations experts have called on majority Shi'ite Muslim Iran to stop persecution and harassment of religious minorities, highlighting an Iranian policy of targeting dissenting beliefs or religious practices, including Christian converts and atheists, according to WION.

According to human rights organizations like Amnesty International, Iran has the second-highest rate of annual executions worldwide, second only to China.

In April, two rights groups revealed that the number of executions in Iran had increased by 75% in 2022 compared to the previous year.

A joint report by Iran Human Rights (IHR) and Together Against the Death Penalty (ECPM), based in Norway and Paris, respectively, disclosed that at least 582 people were executed in Iran last year, per The Times of Israel. This figure is the highest number of executions in the country since 2015 and significantly higher than the 333 reported in 2021.

Related Article: Russia Rains Missiles on Ukraine Ahead of Victory Day Holiday

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China to help Afghanistan realize peace, stability at early date: Chinese FM

Xinhua) 13:28, May 08, 2023

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang meets with Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Afghan interim government, in Islamabad, Pakistan, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Jiang Chao)

ISLAMABAD, May 6 (Xinhua) -- China is ready to help Afghanistan realize self-reliance, peace, stability, development and prosperity at an early date, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Saturday.

While meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, acting foreign minister of the Afghan interim government in the Pakistani capital, Qin said China and Afghanistan are traditionally friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers.

The two countries have been supporting, understanding and trusting each other, he said, noting that no matter how the international situation evolves, China will always stand firmly with the Afghan people and support Afghanistan in pursuing a development path that suits its national conditions.

The Chinese side will continue to respect Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and deepen cooperation with Afghanistan in various fields, Qin said.

Afghanistan should earnestly fulfill its commitment to fighting terrorism, resolutely crack down on terrorist forces, including the East Turkistan Islamic Movement, and ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Afghanistan, the Chinese foreign minister said.

He noted that China will continue to advance the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral dialogue and cooperation based on the principles of equal consultation, pragmatic cooperation and friendship, and mutual benefit.

For his part, Muttaqi said Afghanistan attaches great importance to developing relations with China and will never allow any force to use its territory for anti-China activities.

Afghanistan hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in such fields as economy, trade, people-to-people exchanges and infrastructure within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative to safeguard common interests and benefit the two peoples, Muttaqi said.

He said Afghanistan hopes to live in harmony with China, Pakistan and other neighboring countries and is willing to actively promote trilateral cooperation with China and Pakistan to promote regional stability and prosperity.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The latest Texas shooting at an outlet mall near Dallas was carried out by a 33-year-old man named Mauricio Garcia with alleged neo-Nazi inclinations.

The shooter was wearing a tactical vest with a patch that read "rwds," which authorities believe stands for "right-wing death squad."

Demonstrators were hauled out of the vigil, attended by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick.

Two top law enforcement authorities disclosed that a 33-year-old man with alleged neo-Nazi inclinations was responsible for the latest mass shooting that killed at least eight people and injured six at an outlet mall near Dallas.

Allen police identified the shooter as Mauricio Garcia, who a police officer fatally shot present at the scene. The latest Texas shooting incident happened at Allen Premium Outlets, 25 miles north of Dallas.

According to President Joe Biden, the attacker carried an assault weapon in the "AR-15 style" and lived in Dallas. Additionally, one of the top authorities said the attacker wore a tactical vest, NBC News reported.

Two top law enforcement officers claim Mauricio Garcia had a patch on his breast that said "rwds." Authorities believed it stood for "right-wing death squad," a term used in extreme far-right online groups.

According to two senior law enforcement sources, several postings on the shooter's alleged social media accounts include extreme speech driven by race or ethnicity, including neo-Nazi and white supremacist literature.

Texas authorities also pointed out that the shooter's social media postings had no user interaction in the form of likes or shares.

Witness Helps Wounded

Police believe the Texas shooting was an instance of racial or ethnic extremism. They are cooperating with the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Texas Rangers.

Police and eyewitnesses said that the gunman parked his gray Honda Accord outside the mall on Saturday at around 3:30 p.m. and started shooting at people on the walkways outside the mall, a well-liked shopping destination with many upscale boutiques.

The Texas shooting gunman can be seen getting out of the car and firing, with more than 30 shots heard as the dashcam-recording vehicle accelerated away, per USA Today.

Read Also: 2 'Quran Burners' Executed for Blasphemy in Iran

A policeman attending a nearby unrelated incident who heard the gunshots was able to engage the gunman, killing Garcia and ending the Texas shooting.

Joshua W. Barnwell, a witness with military experience, immediately came to the aid of the injured, per ABC News.

He said a woman who was conscious asked for his help with her daughter, who had suffered five to six gunshot wounds. Despite attempts to revive her with chest compressions, Barnwell realized that she had already passed away when he saw a large amount of blood coming out from the daughter.

Controversy at The Vigil

Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick participated in the vigil that senior pastor John Mark Caton conducted at Cottonwood Creek Church.

Demonstrators were hauled out of the ceremony, causing controversy around the occasion. Other protesters held signs outside the church that said, "This voter opposes gun violence" and "I don't want to be murdered at school."

Despite the horrific Texas shooting, Greg Abbott has stuck to his gun rights beliefs and declined to support further limitations. Instead, he has stressed the need for long-term solutions that deal with mental health challenges.

In a meeting with law enforcement and local officials on Sunday night in Allen, Texas, Governor Greg Abbott said that the families of the Texas shooting victims are interested in learning what happened before the tragedy. Investigators are yet unable to provide specifics, however.

According to Abbott, further information regarding the Texas shooting will be made available to the public in the next few days.

Related Article: Donald Trump Speaks Up on Bud Light - Dylan Mulvaney Controversy

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(Photo : DAMIEN MEYER/AFP via Getty Images)

A California man expressed gratitude for surviving a Tesla car fire that occurred while he was driving.

A California man expressed his gratitude for surviving a Tesla car fire while driving on Saturday.

Bishal Malla, a resident of Elk Grove, a suburb of Sacramento, had been running errands nearby and was about to enter Highway 99 near Cosumnes River Boulevard when he felt his electric vehicle (EV) shaking, which he initially assumed was a flat tire, according to KCRA.

When he opened the car door, he noticed smoke coming from the bottom, and soon after, the smoke turned into flames.

Malla had seen reports about Tesla fires before, so he quickly got out of the Tesla and dialed 911.

Strict mandates need to be in place for @Tesla Semi, clearly defining what loads are not allowed due to random and unpredictable fire.

.

Photo taken today at: Cosumnes River Blvd to Hwy 99. pic.twitter.com/aCuSFaBQQX  SilentAlert (@SilentAlert1) May 7, 2023

He stated that it was difficult not to ponder how things would have been different if his family had been in the Tesla car during the electric vehicle fire incident, considering the additional time it takes to remove children from their seats, KAKE reported.

"I'm just so lucky to be alive," Malla said.

Read Also: Japan to Expand Homegrown GPS Network

How To Deal With EV Fire?

According to Battalion Chief Robert Kasparian of the Cosumnes Fire Department, the current best practice for firefighters dealing with an electric vehicle fire is to allow it to burn.

He explained that the challenge with EVs is accessing the batteries, which generate a great deal of heat. Firefighters often choose to let the vehicle burn until the batteries are exposed so that they can apply water or firefighting foam directly to them.

Electric vehicle fires are challenging to put out due to the high levels of heat generated by their batteries, as per a The Western Journal report. However, gas-fueled and hybrid vehicles are much more prone to catching fire than electric vehicles.

According to data from various government sources analyzed by AutoinsuranceEZ, gas vehicles are 61 times more likely to catch fire than electric vehicles, and hybrids are even worse, with more than 138 times the likelihood of catching fire than EVs.

Related Article: Ford F-150 Lightning EV Orders Re-Open This May



@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Monday, May 8, 2023 at 5:46AM

Image: Microsoft

Microsoft Teams is getting a major update to refresh its virtual backgrounds, including new animated ones. The new backgrounds are designed to match the different preferences and needs of 300 million active monthly Teams users. Whether you want to hide your messy room or create a fun and imaginative atmosphere, you can find one that works for you.

The update will roll out in two phases. First, you will see a large collection of new still images. You can choose from six categories of still photos, including wood and light, contemporary scenes, colourful clouds, mountains, and more. Theres also a belonging category thats especially noteworthy. It features backgrounds that are accessible and inclusive for people on the autism spectrum. For example, some backgrounds are tailored for people who are sensitive to patterns and materials.

The second phase will bring some animated backgrounds in June. Microsoft has not revealed much about them, but they are expected to compete with the ones that Zoom has offered for years.

Source
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti is an annual celebration of the birth anniversary of the legendary Indian poet, writer, philosopher, and polymath Rabindranath Tagore. He was born on May 7, 1861, in Kolkata, India. The day is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence across India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide.

Tagore's Early Life and Education

Debendranath Tagore and Sarada Devi welcomed Rabindranath Tagore into the world on May 7, 1861 at the Jorasanko house in Calcutta, the Tagore family's ancestral home. He was one of thirteen children, the youngest son. Despite the fact that the Tagore family was large, he was largely reared by maids and slaves because his father was a frequent traveller and his mother passed away when he was still a young child.

Rabindranath Tagore was a youthful participant in the Bengal Renaissance, in which his family actively participated. He was a child prodigy as well because he began writing poetry at the age of 8. He also began creating art at a young age, and by the time he was sixteen, he had begun writing poetry under the pen name Bhanusimha. In addition, he published the poem collection "Sandhya Sangit" in 1882 and the short story "Bhikharini" in 1877.

Classical Poetry inspired him

Reading Kalidasa's classical poetry provided him with inspiration, which led him to begin writing his own. His brothers and sisters served as some of his other sources of inspiration. While Satyendranath, one of his brothers, held a well-regarded job, his older brother Dwijendranath was a poet and philosopher.

His sister Swarnakumari was a well-known writer. Tagore received the most of his education at home and received instruction from his siblings in a variety of areas, including gymnastics, martial arts, art, anatomy, literature, history, and maths. He traveled the nation with his father for several months in 1873. Throughout his travels, he gained knowledge in a variety of areas. His time in Amritsar gave him the opportunity to study Sikhism, which he later used to inspire up to six poems and numerous articles about the faith.

Tagore was never interested in learning at school

The traditional education of Rabindranath Tagore began in a public school in Brighton, East Sussex, England. His father intended him to become a barrister, therefore he was sent to England in 1878. Later, he was joined by some of his family members to help him during his stay in England, including his nephew, niece, and sister-in-law.

Rabindranath never had any interest in learning from his school because he detested conventional education. Later, he was accepted into the University College in London, where he was required to pursue a legal education. But he abandoned his studies once more and studied several Shakespearean plays on his own. After mastering the fundamentals of Scottish, English, and Irish music and literature, he went back to India and wed Mrinalini Devi when she was just ten years old.

Tagore's literary career

Tagore's literary career spanned over six decades, during which he wrote in Bengali and English. He was the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913 for his collection of poems, Gitanjali. He was a versatile writer who experimented with different genres, including poetry, fiction, drama, and essays.

Some of his notable works include The Home and the World, Ghare-Baire, The Post Office, and Chokher Bali. Tagore's literary works are known for their lyrical beauty, humanism, and universal appeal.

Top 50 Rabindranath Tagore Quotes On Education

His writings reflect his deep understanding of human nature, his quest for spiritual enlightenment, and his concern for social issues such as poverty, education, and gender equality. His works also celebrate the beauty of nature, the importance of cultural diversity, and the need for a harmonious coexistence between humans and the environment.

Tagore as Social Reformer

Apart from his literary contributions, Tagore was also a social reformer who worked tirelessly to promote education, social justice, and cultural harmony. He founded the Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, which aimed to provide a holistic education that combined Western and Indian traditions. The university became a centre of art, culture, and education, attracting students and scholars from all over the world.

Tagore as Freedom Fighter

Tagore was also a vocal critic of British colonial rule in India and a supporter of Indian independence. He was a friend of Mahatma Gandhi, and he played an active role in the Indian freedom struggle. He was also a strong advocate for global peace and a vocal critic of war and violence.

The final four years of Rabindranath Tagore's life were spent in excruciating suffering, and he battled two long illnesses. He fell into a comatose state in 1937, which returned three years later. Tagore passed away on August 7, 1941, in the same Jorasanko home where he was raised, after enduring an extensive amount of pain.

Significance of Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti

Rabindranath Tagore was a towering figure in Indian literature, music, and art. He was the first Asian to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913, and his works have been translated into many languages. He is considered the father of Bengali literature. Rabindranath Tagore's impact on Indian culture and literature is immeasurable.

Rabindranath Tagore Essay: Top 5 Ideas For Students

He was a visionary who used his literary talent to promote humanism, cultural diversity, and social justice. His writings continue to inspire people all over the world, and his legacy is a testament to the power of literature in promoting a better world.

Celebrations of Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti

Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm in India and around the world. It is a public holiday in West Bengal, where Tagore's works are recited and celebrated. People also organise cultural events, poetry recitals, and musical performances to honour Tagore's legacy.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework that aims to transform the education system in India, from the school level to higher education. The policy seeks to address the current challenges and gaps in the higher education sector, and proposes several reforms to make it more inclusive, holistic and globally competitive. According to Vineet Gupta Ashoka University Founder, "The NEP has the potential to transform the foundations of education by enabling students to acquire high-quality resources and study new courses. It can modernize education and offer students more flexibility in their higher studies."

One of the key features of the NEP-2020 is the emphasis it places on multidisciplinary education and flexibility in courses. The policy suggests a four-year multidisciplinary undergraduate programme, which will allow students to take up a varied range of courses across different disciplines. This proposition will help students with a more holistic education and equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary for a fast changing employment market. Students are also permitted to engage in dual degrees concurrently in a physical setting, through distance learning or online mode.

Since its inception in 2014, Ashoka University has been way ahead of its time in implementing multidisciplinary education and practical learning, as proposed by the NEP. A 3+1 year undergraduate programme is offered to students, in which they complete a number of foundation courses in their freshman year in a variety of academic fields, including sociology, economics, literature, history, philosophy, mathematics, etc., before selecting a major of their choice at the start of their second year.

Along with providing students a well-rounded education, the foundation courses assist them in choosing which field of study to pursue. Students at Ashoka have the choice to graduate in three years as a four-year undergraduate degree was not permitted by UGC back then or they can remain on for an extra year to undertake additional courses. Students were also given opportunity to pursue an additional major.

Ashoka University Founders believed in the power of multidisciplinary education and structured the university in accordance with that. Co-Founder Pranav Gupta highlights, "Our curriculum has always been designed to nurture critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills among students, and we have continuously evolved our teaching methodologies to offer a more experiential and practical approach to learning. As a multidisciplinary institution, we encourage our students to explore and learn across different domains, breaking down the traditional bounds of education."

For Indian higher education, the NEP's provisions for interdisciplinary education have been revolutionary. However, the path ahead is not without obstacles. To properly execute the policy, obstacles such as a lack of funding, insufficient resources and inadequately trained faculty must be addressed. One such big obstacle that educational institutions may have when putting the NEP-2020 into practice is the shift in curriculum. The proposed strategy calls for a multidisciplinary approach to education, which means institutions will need to alter their curricula to accommodate it and provide a greater selection of courses in many fields. Designing new courses, revising old courses and adjusting the curriculum to fit the new teaching approaches will all take a lot of effort and time.

The NEP-2020 also suggests moving away from rote learning and toward a more hands-on, pragmatic approach to education. As a result, educational institutions will need to create new teaching strategies that prioritize project-based learning, experiential learning and analytical skills. Faculty members will need to undergo training to implement and incorporate these new teaching methods into the curricula.

"Implementing these changes will require a significant amount of planning, coordination and collaboration among educational institutions, faculty members and other stakeholders. The curriculum redesign process will need to be aligned with the new infrastructure requirements, such as digital classrooms and online learning platforms, to ensure that the curriculum is delivered effectively," states Vineet Gupta.

Ashoka University Founders maintain that NEP-2020 is the way forward in India's higher education sector. "Our university has always been one step ahead from the time of its establishment. Our focus on liberal arts education, holistic development and research-based pedagogy aligns perfectly with the NEP. Its provisions are transformational and with the right support and investment, it will help fulfill the vision of creating a more inclusive, student-centric and globally competitive education system in India," adds Pranav Gupta.
Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023: The Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) has announced the Tamil Nadu 12th result 2023 today, May 8, 2023. Students who appeared for Tamil Nadu Class 12 exams will be able to check results by visiting to the official website at tnresults.nic.in. TN Class 12th exams 2023 were held from March 13 to April 3.

The students need to fill in the registration number and date of birth on the login page of the TN 12th HSE +2 results to check the result and download the mark sheets.

Further, the compartment exams are expected to be conducted in July 2023 while the supplementary results will be released in August 2023.



How to download Tamil Nadu Class 12th Result 2023

Go to the official TN Class 12 results portal - tnresults.nic.in.

Step 2: Fill in your registration number and date of birth.

Step 3: Click on 'Get Marks'.

Step 4: The screen will display the TN class 12 board exam result 2023

Step 5: Check the details carefully.

Step 6: Take a printout or take a screenshot of the TN board result 2023. Keep it safe for further reference.

Steps to download 12th result 2023 Tamil Nadu via SMS?

Step 1: Open the messaging app on your phone

Step 2: Type "Registration-Number DOB"(dd/mm/yyyy) in the text box

Step 3: Send this message to 09282232585 or +919282232585

Step 4: The DGE TN will send the candidate's result through SMS. Last year, TN HSE +2 exam was conducted from May 5 to May 28 and the overall pass percentage was 93.76%
The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Government Examinations (TN DGE) released the Class 12th or HSC results today, May 8. Students can now visit the official websites to verify their results.

This year, the overall pass percentage has been recorded at 94.03%. A total of 8,03,385 candidates appeared for the exam out of which 3,82,371 were boys and 4,21,013 girls. This year girls have overpowered boys. The overall pass percentage of boys is 91.45% and girls are 96.38%. A total of 3,49,697 boys have passed the exam and 4,05,753 girls have passed.

Overview of the Pass Percentage

Pass Percentage in 2023: 94.03 percent

Pass percentage of Girls: 96.38 percent

Pass percentage of Boys: 91.45 percent

Number of students who appeared: 8,03,385

Number of students passed: 7.5 lakh

Streamwise pass percentage

Science stream- 96.32 percent

Commerce stream- 91.63 percent

Arts stream- 81.89 percent

Vocational- 82.11 percent

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023: Pass percentage up from last year

2023 - 94.03 percent

2022 - 93.76 percent

2021 - 100 percent

2020 - 92.34 percent

2019 - 91.30 percent

2018 - 91.10 percent

Websites to check the Results

tnresults.nic.in

dge1.tn.nic.in

dge2.tn.nic.in

dge.tn.gov.in

Marksheet

Students are recommended to keep their original mark sheets for the Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 as they would be useful in their future academic endeavors.

Re-evaluation

Students who are dissatisfied with their scores following the announcement of the Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 have the option of having their answer sheets re-evaluated. Regular students can apply to their respective schools for re-evaluation of the TN 12th Result 2023 for all subjects. Students must pay Rs. 505 per subject to do the same. The re-evaluation request will be processed within 10 to 15 days.
The AI war between Google and OpenAI is still raging as the former just announced upcoming upgrades. The leading search engine intends to make its service more "visual, snackable, personal, and human" using artificial intelligence.

Google Makes a Move

The tech giant is planning to make the search engine more visually appealing and easier to use for the younger generation globally. The usual upgrade that Google makes takes a turn as this becomes more of a design upgrade rather than a functional improvement.

Search results may soon be replaced with human voices, as opposed to the result of search results that show "ten blue links," as mentioned in Interesting Engineering. This could the beginning of hands-free web browsing, especially with Google's "Magi."

Magi's purpose is to make a user's search engine experience more tailored to their needs. Since Google will be more intuitive, the search results will be more specific to what the user intends to find, accompanied by sources to further immerse the searcher in information.

Although the tech giant still has no announcement regarding the release of the project, it's expected to be unveiled during the Google I/O developer conference. This could put Google ahead of the generative AI contest against OpenAI and Microsoft.

The race started when Microsoft announced that its search engine will be getting an improvement. With the billion-dollar partnership with OpenAI, ChatGPT would be integrated with Bing, Microsoft's search engine, threatening the standing of Google.

Google responded by releasing its own chatbot, Bard, although that didn't exactly achieve the success that the company hoped for. Magi is among Google's many AI-related projects, perhaps to redeem itself after Bard.

Once Magi is released, a million users in the US will be experiencing the improvements brought by Magi first. The company will then gradually expand its availability to approximately 30 million around the world before 2023 ends.

Read Also: Google Announced that AI Features Will Be Added to Workspace Apps

Tech Companies May Need to Slow Down

The AI race appears to be going at hyperspeed as the companies are attempting to one-up each other at every turn. However, not everyone is happy about how fast things are progressing, and one of those is the godfather of AI himself, Geoffrey Hinton.

Hinton, along with two of his graduate students from the University of Toronto in 2012, created the foundation that AI technology would be built upon. Despite that, he recently joined the group of tech critics that believe AI's fast progress may be dangerous.

He had quit his job at Google and said that he regret his life's work, as mentioned in The New York Times. Given that he was one of the most respected people in the field of AI, and had a hand in its progression, his wariness might actually hold weight.

One of the known tech minds in the industry who is also against the advancement of AI is Elon Musk. He, along with many other tech developers and critics who know their way around artificial intelligence share the same concern about its dangers.

Related: Google May Be Creating a New AI-Powered Search Engine
Seven years in the making, the epic tale of unrequited love and self-discovery embraces the flamboyance that audiences have come to expect from Brown.

Tom C.J. Brown makes a splashy return to the film festival circuit this year with his new short film, Christopher at Sea. The British filmmaker first turned heads in 2007 by winning a Sundance Short Filmmaking Award with his animated short T.O.M.. He later went on to earn a dozen festival awards, from AFI Fest to SXSW, with his 2015 animated comedy short Teeth.

Christopher at Sea, well-received at such film festivals as Venice, Seminci, Uppsala, and Bucheon, is a transatlantic co-production between Psyop, Miyu Productions, and Temple Carrington & Brown. The short spotlights a lone passenger on a cargo ship whose grip on reality unravels as he dips his toe in the warm waters of his hearts desire.

Isolated and alone in an industrial and hyper-masculine world, its the story of someones struggle to discover their truth, Brown explains. The film uses melodramatic realism to explore Christophers inner turmoil and yearning against the backdrop of a monotonous sea voyage, creating tension between the real and a heightened version of the real to amplify emotions  just like opera, which plays a sonic role in the film.

Feeling he had the melodrama down but hoping for more realism, Brown convinced production company Psyop to book him as a passenger on a cargo ship for a research trip, traveling 21 days from Southampton to New York. Probably one of the worst experiences of my life, says Brown. But watching the sunset in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and listening to the Act 3 prelude of La Traviata is a vibe, and the trip provided a wealth of needed first-person experience and reference imagery for the project.

Browns operatic inclinations flow through the film in the form of Franz Schuberts song cycle Die Scone Mullerin, performed by Judith Berkson with contributions by composer Brian McOmber, giving voice to Christophers unspoken emotions.

At the beginning of 2020 Id been listening to this music repeatedly, searching for a way to make the project relevant to who I was then, and again in 2015 when I started the film, Brown explains. When I realized the similarities between the song cycles protagonist and Christophers journey, I knew Id found the key to the films emotional core in my new obsession, the opera.

The final song of Schuberts cycle plays a pinnacle role in the music as well as the film. Its composed in E-major, which traditionally denotes joy. Schubert wanted to leave his audiences with a happy ending, despite the tragic ending to his story. Thats what I wanted for my audience too, to leave them with a feeling of hope.

Origins

The short began after the rumor of an artist residency onboard a cargo ship. I just became obsessed with this idea of a passenger in that setting, the juxtaposition between the beauty of nature and bleak industrial design. It was a perfect environment for a love story which Id always wanted to tell.

But an unexpected discovery took the project into unchartered waters. Brown explains, I felt the setting of a cargo ship was too predatory for a heteronormative love story and realized this all-male environment was the perfect place to explore a queer relationship.

Exploring that theme, and staring at the reference photos of beautiful boys he had ripped out of fashion magazines and stuck on his wall, I realized that the real reason I wanted to write a gay love story was that I was gay. Which was news to me.

With this new unexpected awakening for Brown, the love story evolved to incorporate his personal journey and became entwined with his own struggle for identity, discovering my truth, which involved a dramatic retelling of the communal showers in a hostel at Sundance, and the rewriting of a prophecy from my mothers nightmares.

Production

Dodging Brexit, the U.K Variant, and after being quarantined twice, Brown arrived in Vendome, France at the beginning of 2021 to start production at Ciclic Animation Residency which he had gained through presenting the project at Annecys Mifa Pitches along with support from Arte and CNC.

Between visiting 37 chateaux in the Loire Valley, Brown spent five months working with a team of five animators. Using 2d animation was the perfect medium to have total control and enable us to break the illusion of reality we are creating.

Among the visual challenges of making the film, Brown says, I really wanted Christophers sweater to have a certain feel to it  ethereal, almost floating. You can feel the slow melody of the air flowing through his sweater. When drawing it, if we had to choose between what was correct and fashion, we chose fashion. So each frame of the film is a totally unique drawing of the sweater. We used a large fluffy brush to color it and finally added a boiling paint texture that we also used in the sea, so there was this visual link between the two.

Theres also a lot of body hair that my brave team of Hungarian cleanup artists took on, he adds.

Another challenge Brown encountered was the ocean. The problem with setting a film on a boat is theres a lot of water to animate, for this film 62 shots. Luckily, Psyop was able to create all of the ocean sims, onto which we then painted waves, white caps, reflections, and sparkles. All that combined in comp with animating textures to create the final look of the sea.

Collaboration

The fantasy sequences were an ideal opportunity to collaborate with some of Browns favorite animators. He enlisted the help of Raman Djafari and Jack Wedge to visualize the perspective-melting fantasies. Working with the pair, alongside the team of animators and cleanup artists and designer Rebekka Dunlap, the team was able to successfully create psychedelic smears to depict Christophers psychological unraveling.

Casey Spooner, who Brown collaborated with in 2018 on their music video TopBrazil, provides a new solo track, Unsistered, for one such moment, taking audiences out of the melancholy of Schubert into the technopop of homosexual desire.

Christopher at Sea is available to watch on Animation Showcase, alongside a fleet of upcoming festival screenings.
The royal family isn't the only notables in the coronation of the now King Charles III.

Canadian Space Agency (CSA) astronaut Jeremy Hansen, one of the astronauts scheduled to go around the moon for the Artemis 2 mission, is also among the notables during the king's coronation ceremony held on May 6 in London, England.

Hansen, along with NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Hammock Koch, will go around the moon around Nov. 2024 if everything goes as NASA planned.

Hansen's Presence On Coronation Day

Hansen led Canada's national procession at King Charles III's coronation day while carrying the country's flag in front of the Governor-General of Canada, Mary Simon, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, per Space.com. They are accompanied by Whit Fraser and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, their respective spouses.

Hansen, who's a colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces and a former fighter pilot holding a Bachelor of Science in space science from the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, Ontario, is one of many notables from Canada to be invited to join Trudeau for Charles III's coronation. A CTV News article mentioned that Trudueau's office released a list of dignitaries and eminent Canadians invited to join him and Simon for coronation day, with Hansen already slated to carry Canada's flag in a procession of people who received national honors.

Read More: 5 Must-Have Characters for Your Honkai: Star Rail Teams

Aside from Hansen, the parade also included historian Margaret MacMillan, a companion of the Order of Canada, Cross of Valour recipient Leslie Arthur Palmer, astronaut Jennifer Sidey-Gibbons and the clerk of the Privy Council, Janice Charette, the Canadian government's highest-ranking civil servant.

Hansen mentioned in his official Twitter account that it is an honor to be asked to carry the Canadian flag for the coronation of Charles III and his Queen consort.

Why Did Canada Attend The Coronation?

For those wondering why prominent Canadian officials and people are present for Charles III's coronation, a British affair, Canada is part of the British Commonwealth, which the UK established in 1926 with its Dominions, per The Commonwealth. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the original Britsh Dominions include Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Union of South Africa, Eire, and Newfoundland.

When the UK convened the Imperial Conference, these dominions, along with the UK, agreed that they were all equal members of a community within the British Empire. However, while Commonwealth members still owe allegiance to the British King or Queen, they did not rule over them and are vastly independent of the UK's government.

The modern British Commonwealth came to be around in 1949 with the London Declaration, with Canada playing an important role in its evolution, per the Government of Canada.

Artemis 2 Launch

The Artemis 2 mission, which has Wiseman and Glover assigned as the mission's commander and pilot, respectively, while Koch and Hansen will serve as Artemis 2's mission specialists, is set for launch in Nov. 2024, per Astronomy.com, though the is a possibility of it getting delayed.

The mission will last for around ten days and serves as a test flight to verify the operations and procedures of the Orion spacecraft to ascertain its capability to put humanity back on the moon by 2025.

Related Article: NASA Finally Reveals Its Artemis 2 Astronauts
Chattanooga Police responded Saturday evening to a crash where a vehicle ran into a building.



Police located a single vehicle (truck) that crashed into Midas at 5951 Brainerd Road.



The driver of the vehicle suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital.



Review of the crash showed that the vehicle left the road for unknown reasons. The vehicle crossed over into on-coming traffic, jumped a curb, went through a grass field, across a parking lot and into the building. The vehicle subsequently struck two vehicles inside the building before coming to rest.



The building sustained damage but was deemed structurally sound.




The Korean economy remains sluggish amid ailing exports, but its downward trend has been moderated due to a recovery in its domestic consumption, a state-run think tank said Monday.







"Due to challenging external conditions, exports continued to decrease sharply, centering on semiconductors," the Korea Development Institute (KDI) said in its monthly report.







Korea's exports fell for the seventh consecutive month in April due mainly to sagging global demand for semiconductors. Outbound shipments of chips plunged 41 percent on-year amid the downcycle of the industry.







"Manufacturing production and shipments continued to decline, while related business sentiment indices stood at low levels, indicating persistent weakness in economic activity," it added.







The KDI, however, said the economy's steep decline has been "somewhat tempered by a moderating slump in domestic demand."







"Retail sales experienced an easing of contraction led by automobiles, while services production sustained favorable growth backed by increased demand for tour activity," the institution said.







The think tank nevertheless pointed out that the country's economic activities are still showing "weakness," and manufacturing production and shipments continued to decline.







The KDI added the local financial market remains "stable" despite the growing concerns over the global banking sector. (Yonhap)


While patrolling the Baker South Sector at Rossville Boulevard and E. 32nd Street, officers saw a woman standing in the middle of Rossville Boulevard. The officers spoke with the woman and instructed her to move to the sidewalk. The woman said she was in a disorder with her boyfriend who was also there. The woman said she was in the middle of the road to prove a point to her boyfriend. She told officers that she was not suicidal and didnt want to harm herself. The boyfriend said they were in a fuss over a lighter. The woman requested transportation to Market Street so she could separate herself from the situation. Officers transported her without incident.

* * *

Officers were dispatched for a disorder prevention on Belaire Drive. A woman said she was going to collect her belongings from a mans residence, but would like to have police there because of an incident earlier that morning. An officer spoke with the man who said the woman could collect her belongings and could drive his vehicle to her residence so she didn't have to walk. The woman declined and asked for the man to drive her instead, as to not have to return his vehicle to his residence. Both agreed to these terms.

* * *

A man on Van Buren Street told police he found his vehicle's center console was open and it appeared there was approximately $2 worth of change taken from it. The man didn't remember if he locked his vehicle's door the night prior. There was no damage to the vehicle the man could see.

* * *

While working an auto theft on Jersey Pike, an officer saw a trunk on a white sedan opened. After a little investigation, the officer found the owner in an apartment. They checked the vehicle and the steering column had been popped in an attempt to steal the car. This vehicle was stolen a month ago and had already been updated by Hyundai so they were unsuccessful. The officer attempted to pull prints from the column area but was unable. The owners didnt report anything stolen from the car.

* * *

A woman on Enclave Bay Drive called police and said her car had been "ransacked" the night before. Her wallet was open with her credit cards and Georgia State ID stolen, along with some miscellaneous paperwork. The woman said she had left her doors unlocked.

* * *

A man on Fagan Street told police someone had broken the front passenger side window of his vehicle and stolen his wallet. The man said he had left his wallet on the center console area above the radio. The man was unsure of any other items stolen. He said he had approximately $100 cash, credit/debit cards and his Tennessee drivers license in his brown Fossil bi-fold wallet. He had locked his cards and didnt find any fraudulent or attempted transactions on his cards.

* * *

A woman on S. Beech Street told police she received a text earlier that week asking to approve a transaction made on her credit card. She said she denied the transaction and made multiple attempts to contact her credit card customer service to address it. The woman said she was unable to make contact with the company. She checked her credit account and noticed an unknown suspect had made six transactions, not authorized by her, to Unicity USA Incorporated Inc, totaling approximately $1,035. She will continue to call her credit company to have her card locked and to file a report with them.

* * *

A man on Lupton Drive discovered his vehicle had been rummaged through the night before. Two of his JBL bluetooth speakers were stolen - a FLIP 5 and a FLIP 6. The FLIP 6 had an after-market rubber sleeve around it with a bright hunter orange para cord. The man said there was no damage to his vehicle and he left it unlocked overnight.

* * *

A man on East Brainerd Road called police and said someone in Utah was withdrawing $70 a week from his bank account since January 2023. The man said the company withdrawing the money was a furniture store. He was already correcting the issue with his bank.

* * *

Police were dispatched to Vance Street on a report of a woman in a black vehicle with a firearm. Police saw a car matching the description and spoke with the woman. While speaking with the woman, police were informed by dispatch that the reporting person had stopped speaking with them and wouldnt provide any information. Police learned that the womans boyfriend had an ex-girlfriend who had recently begun to cause problems for them and they believed she had called as a result of a verbal argument which had taken place earlier before police arrived. Police were unable to make contact with the initial caller to gain any further information.
Police responded to a domestic disorder at 5168 Chestnutt Creek Road in Collegedale after being notified of a possible stabbing in the home.

Upon arrival officers made contact with the suspect, Christine Marion Wolfersheim, a 27-year-old Cleveland native, who immediately surrendered herself to police.

She was bleeding from a cut to her left wrist.

The victim, Michael Matthew Shaw, was found in the kitchen floor. He was responsive and treated by emergency medical personnel.

Both individuals were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

Shaw was kept overnight for observation and is in stable condition.

After receiving stitches to her wrist, Ms. Wolfersheim was booked on aggravated domestic assault charges and transported to the Hamilton County Jail. Her bond was set at $15,000 and her court date is set for June 7 in Collegedale.
Scenic City Womens Network announced Mimi Tin, designer, inventor and entrepreneur, will be the guest speaker for the May Marketplace Luncheon on May 25 at Mountain City Club, 729 Chestnut St. A delicious plated menu and dessert will be served.





Ms. Tin is a designer, inventor and entrepreneur who has been creating since the first day she picked up a pencil and a pair of scissors. From the earliest age, she was no stranger to pushing the design limits to realize her visions.





Born in Burma during the rule of a military dictator, Ms.Tin immigrated to the U.S. with her family in search of freedom, and found the freedom to use her imagination. As she watched her parents' struggles and their faith never waiver, she learned from an early age that With God, all things are possible.





Ms. Tin received a Fine Arts Scholarship to Carson-Newman University, and she went on to pursue a Graduate degree in Environmental Graphic Design at Miami Ad School.





As a graphic designer, she has worked in all areas from Brand Identity creation to implementation. Her client roster is extensive and has included work with Coca-Cola, Delta Airlines, Samsung, Sony, and Olympic Games across three continents.





In 2021, Ms. Tin was the recipient of the Triumph Award for her contributions to the creative industry. She was also named Young Designer on a Roll by The New York Times.




Cleveland State Platform party, front row, left to right: Dr. Willie Thomas, chief of staff; Dr. Linda Cash, director of Bradley County Schools and Commencement speaker; Dr. Ty Stone, Cleveland State president; and Dr. Sindy Reynolds, vice president for Finance & Operations; Back row, left to right: Mike Griffin, Cleveland State Board of Trustees chairman; Dr. Michael Stokes, vice president for Student Services; Regent Tom White, Tennessee Board of Regents; Dr. John Squires, interim vice president of Workforce Development, Institutional Research & Advancement; and Dr. Corey Campbell, vice president for Academic Affairs.

Criminal Justice graduates prepare for the commencement ceremony. Pictured, left to right, are Ashlynn Gouin, Demya Holloway, Kennedy King and Brandy Granger.

Spring 2023 graduates enter the commencement ceremony.

Cleveland State President Dr. Ty Stone welcomes the graduates to the commencement ceremony

Tennessee Valley Early College (TVEC) graduates, left to right, Chloe Crockett, Nathan Brummett, Cameron Knott, Braden Wingfield and Conner Wilkins listen to the national anthem during the commencement ceremony
Lee Universitys Dr. James Wilkins has been named the recipient of the 2023 Janet Rahamut Award. This award is given in recognition to the faculty member that exhibits a heart for students evidenced by frequent interaction and positive involvement with them outside the classroom.

The award is named in memory of Dr. Janet Rahamut, a veteran English professor whose tragic death in 2000 shocked the campus and left a tremendous void in the collective heart of the Lee family. The award was created to honor Dr. Rahamuts dedication to her students, in and out of the classroom.

I am so blessed to have known Janet Rahamut. She was a great colleague and one I still talk about with others who knew her, said Dr. Wilkins, professor of French. Her involvement with her students is the thing I admired most about her. It is she who most fully deserves this honor. I am humbled to have received this recognition.

Dr. Wilkins joined Lees faculty in 1997 and teaches all levels of courses of French language and literature. His current areas of interest focus on foreign language pedagogy and assessment, especially oral proficiency testing, including TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). He also serves as coordinator of the Semester in France study abroad program for French majors.

In addition to teaching at Lee and conducting foreign language workshops, Dr. Wilkins has conducted language proficiency interview workshops in several French-speaking nations of West Africa.

Jim Wilkins is the epitome of everything this award represents. He has poured his heart into the French program here at Lee, said Dr. Donna Summerlin, chairperson of the department of Language and Literature. Wilkins goes beyond the classroom in countless ways to connect with and serve students on a one-to-one and small group basis, often hosting events, chatting with them over coffee, and teaching overload in order to provide the needed classes for our majors and minors.

Dr. Wilkins was presented the award during a special chapel service.








Tennessee Governor Bill Lee announced that he will call for the Tennessee General Assembly to convene a special legislative session on Aug. 21 "to strengthen public safety and preserve constitutional rights."

He said, After speaking with members of the General Assembly, I am calling for a special session on August 21 to continue our important discussion about solutions to keep Tennessee communities safe and preserve the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens.

There is broad agreement that action is needed, and in the weeks ahead, well continue to listen to Tennesseans and pursue thoughtful, practical measures that strengthen the safety of Tennesseans, preserve Second Amendment rights, prioritize due process protections, support law enforcement and address mental health.

Starting on Monday, Tennesseans are invited to engage in the conversation by sharing feedback here.

Governor Lee will meet with legislators, stakeholders and Tennesseans throughout the summer to discuss practical solutions ahead of the special session.

The governors office will issue a formal call ahead of the special session.
A woman stands in front of restaurant stalls in Myeong-dong, downtown Seoul, Sunday. Yonhap



By Lee Yeon-woo



The government is urging food manufacturers to control their prices as they continue to rise despite the relative stabilization of other consumer prices. While production costs are soaring, concern is being raised that the government pressure may only end up in a sudden and steep increase in food prices, which would further burden consumers.



According to Statistics Korea, Monday, the price of dining out increased by 7.6 percent last month, marking the biggest jump since 1992. Prices of processed food also rose by 7.9 percent, with three out of ten items experiencing a double-digit rise.



These figures are more than double the 3.7 percent rise in overall consumer prices, which entered the three percent range for the first time in 14 months.



The government thus has been urging the food industry to avoid any price hikes, and if necessary, to minimize the pace of price increases.



During a meeting with 12 domestic food corporations in February, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Chung Hwang-keun expressed hopes that the food industry would cooperate as much as possible to stabilize prices during the first half of this year.



Finance Minister Choo Kyung-ho joined the efforts, urging the food industry to "absorb the causes of price increases as much as possible by cutting production costs." He made the remarks during the emergency meeting held in March.



Food companies are seemingly complying with the government's demands, either withdrawing or delaying price hikes. However, the measure comes with a cost. CJ CheilJedang, a leading producer, for example, is expected to see a 31.9 percent decrease in its operating profits for the first quarter of this year, according to brokerages. Rising costs in labor, distribution and energy as well as surging rent are pushing up production costs and eating into profits.



The food industry thus says that the price hike is eventually unavoidable and that the continued pressure by the government could possibly burst into a sudden and significant increase in food prices.



"In the short term, corporations may be able to bear the burden. However, the natural principle of the market is that prices should rise when costs increase. If these underlying issues are not addressed, it may become inevitable to raise prices," said an official from a food industry on condition of anonymity.



"Businesses may feel compelled to consider the price hike at a point if their poor financial performance leads to plunging stock prices."


Rep. Kim Nam-kuk of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea / Yonhap



By Lee Min-hyung



Rep. Kim Nam-kuk of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) is being criticized for suspicious crypto trading worth 6 billion won ($4.54 million).



Kim is suspected of cashing out his crypto assets shortly before March 2022 when Korea introduced the crypto travel rule, mandating real-name crypto transactions. Kim denied the suspicions, claiming that most of his crypto assets were not cashed out, but instead transferred to another exchange.



The exchange then reported the suspicious transaction to the Korea Financial Intelligence Unit, which reported the case to the prosecution. Investigators are stilling looking into the incident.



The public criticism is directed at Kim's ambivalence, as he has claimed to be a poor politician who stands with the socially vulnerable.



He said he had not reported his crypto assets, as they were not subject to the disclosure obligation under the current public service ethics act.



The ruling People Power Party, however, stepped up criticism of Kim for his suspicious crypto trading.



"The public is shocked by his ambivalent attitude and attempts to gain sympathy by highlighting his cheap shoes, even though he held crypto assets worth 6 billion won," PPP spokesman Rep. Yoo Sang-bum said.



Kim is also under fire for proposing a bill in 2021 along with a group of other lawmakers from the opposition camp on delaying the taxation of crypto gains.



Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo also urged Kim to step down from his post.



"This is a serious moral hazard," he said. "He appeared to have had a get-rich-quick scheme with crypto trading. He should have left his job as a lawmaker and focused on speculative trading instead. On top of that, he stood at the forefront of delaying crypto taxation, which can be seen as an abuse of his legislative power for the protection of his private assets."



But Kim denied most of the suspicions.



"I did not borrow and receive money from anyone at all (for the crypto trading)," Kim said. "I sold some of my stocks to use for the initial crypto investment. I also made transactions only through real-name accounts and I can transparently share all of the transaction records."


When this 24-year-old woman was just 14, her whole life was uprooted. Her dad decided to sell both his business and their home. Then, he relocated her family from a big city to a new small town.

Her grandfather passed away not long afterward, too. So, her mom had to travel out of the country to grieve the loss.

And while her mom was away, her dad decided to send her mom a photo of another, larger home that he also decided to buy without even asking her.

At that point, her dad claimed the home was paid for entirely upfront meaning there would be no mortgage.

So, her mom allowed her dad to sign on her behalf. Afterward, her parents also began investing in a company in Africa.

Once they made those investments, her dad wound up convincing her mom to retire on their savings for a few years or until their business picked up.

Then, her dad proceeded to fly back and forth on business trips to Africa. However, she later learned that these business trips were filled with secrets.

While her dad was in Africa over the years, he wound up having three children. On top of that, it turned out that her dad never actually paid cash for their home. Instead, it was really bought under a mortgage which her mom only discovered years later.

The previous business was sold for $1.5 million, our house for just under $700,000, and the new house was worth about $255,000. So, you do the math, she said.

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Have you ever planned a big family trip? If you have, you know how stressful it can be. People dont always pull their weight, some back out of the trip at the last minute, etc.

One woman recently upset her stepson after telling him he has to stay home to keep an eye on her son while the rest of the family goes on vacation to Disney World.

She and her husband are in their 40s and are getting ready to celebrate their one-year wedding anniversary. She has a 16-year-old son, and her stepson is 17-years-old.

My son is an extrovert, has a very active social life, and does a lot of activities, she explained.

My stepson is an introvert that prefers to stay home and does not have much going on in his life outside of school. They still have a good relationship, even playing video games together sometimes.

She and her husband thought a great way to celebrate their anniversary would be to book a family trip to Disney World over the summer. At first, she thought her stepson might not be into the idea, given his quieter personality. However, it was her son that had issues with the trip.

Her son made a big fuss over going to Disney World because he was not interested in going on the trip and would miss his girlfriends birthday if he went. He got so angry that he even told her he demanded he stay home and accused them of ruining his life.

On the other hand, her stepson was actually very excited about the trip and had been looking forward to it. However, she was not okay with the idea of only taking her stepson to Disney World with them.

I felt that going just with my stepson would be anticlimactic and wouldnt fulfill the original idea of it being a trip for the whole family, she said.

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Reformed University and aiLegal Law Sign MOU | Reformed University

Reformed University and aiLegal Law held an MOU agreement ceremony for legal services and business cooperation in the conference room of Reformed University on April 25, 2023, and exchanged memoranda of understanding for mutual cooperation.

This MOU was finalized between Dr. Jin O Jeong, President of Reformed University and Lawyer Lucy Lu, managing partner of aiLegal Law, with attending Lawyer Liam Liu and executive faculty from Reformed University.

Following the signing of this MOU, aiLegal Law agreed to provide all necessary legal services as a legal representative for Reformed University. In addition, aiLegal Law agreed to recruit excellent students as well as donate research funds to help secure brilliantfaculty to lead future courses at Reformed University.

Dr. Jeong, President of Reformed University said, Through this business agreement with aiLegal Law, Reformed University will receive the professional legal services that are needed. Using the network of aiLegal Law, Reformed University is able to strengthen their place with other universities in the U.S. and other countries. On behalf of Reformed University, I appreciate aiLegal Law for their work and look forward to a bright future for both entities.

Attorney Lucy Lu, representative for aiLegal Law, said, "Through this agreement, both institutions will help each other grow for a mutual benefit. As multicultural institutions, it will be great to tap into the diversity we share to help further the development of both organizations.

*Reformed University (www.runiv.edu), located in Lawrenceville, provides Business, Theological Studies and Leadership education programs to domestic students and international students.

*aiLegal Law (www.ailegallaw.com), located in Atlanta, provides legal services in various fields such as immigration, business, education and tax matters. They have offices in San Francisco and New York as well.
Pixabay/Sasin Tipchai

The violence between the Kuki-Zomi and Meitei communities in Manipur has increased, prompting calls for peace from Christian organizations across India on Friday.

The United Christian Forum of North East India encouraged all churches to cooperate in praying for peace on Sunday, attributing the disturbance to a power struggle among several parties that resulted in "conflicts, violence, arson, and loss of life."

The Call for Peace in Manipur

According to The Indian Express, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Bengaluru and a well-known member of the country's Catholic community, Reverend Dr. Peter Machado, expressed worry over the state's persecution of Christians. 41% of the people in Manipur identify as Christians, making up a sizable portion of the population. According to reports, three churches were constructed in 1974, and a few homes have been set on fire, causing people to flee to safer areas.

The Archbishop emphasized the sense of discontent that the Christian community in Manipur was experiencing and urged the government to guarantee religious freedom. Even though the BJP administration in power has issued helpline directives, it just highlights the serious threat those targeted because of their religious practices and beliefs face. Approximately seventeen churches have reportedly been vandalized, desecrated, or defiled, with many of them still burning.

Reverend Machado voiced optimism that the situation will be under control, bringing back Manipur's residents' sense of security and tranquility. He highlighted that because the people have given the party power, hoping it will lead to good governance, the government is responsible for protecting religious freedom.

Also Read:India Church Leader Expresses Concern Over False Conversion Accusations Against Christians

North East India Christian Council and Other Associations Appeal for Peace in Manipur

In the story shared in Nagaland Post, the violence in Manipur that caused the loss of lives and property has drawn the grave concern of the North East India Christian Council (NEICC). Rev. Dr. Ramengliana, general secretary of the NEICC, and Rev. R. Lalnunzira, president, denounced the attacks on places of worship in a statement and urged everyone to practice peace and prudence.

The council has recognized the ongoing events as very shameful and undesirable and is pushing the government to act quickly in order to control the situation fast.

According to the Naga Scholars' Association (NSA), violence cannot be justified or supported and will ultimately only result in additional disputes, mistrust, and discontent. Any violence and mob action that jeopardized the peace and stability of the community was "unequivocally" condemned by the NSA.

The organization highlighted the importance of cooperating while ignoring preconceptions and creating a community built on respect, tolerance, and understanding. The NSA made an urgent plea to higher authorities for the prompt restoration of peace and order in the area and to resolve the complaints of individuals harmed during the violent skirmishes.

Although it did not associate the incident with religious extremism or imply that Christians had been singled out for attack because of their beliefs, the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) expressed grief and worry about the violence in Manipur. According to Christianity Today, the General Secretary of EFI, Vijayesh Lal, issued a statement urging all parties to maintain caution and work toward a peaceful resolution of the problems. He encouraged the residents of Manipur to stay away from groups and individuals who promote divisiveness and division.

To address the root causes of the conflict, Lal further urged the state and union governments to undertake productive discussions with all parties involved.

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In an interview with Vatican News, Archbishop Robert Francis Prevostthe new leader of the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishopsexplained his ideas on what a bishop should do. He highlighted the value of fostering a relationship with Christ, spreading the beauty of the religion, being reasonable with social media, and having a broad perspective.

Chicago-born Archbishop Outlines Key Elements of a Bishop's Role

In the article shared in Catholic News Agency, according to Prevost, bishops should concentrate on sharing their personal relationship with the Lord and teaching others about him. He went on to say, "This comes first: to communicate the beauty of the faith, the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus," adding that it needs living and sharing this experience.

Prevost, who was born in Chicago in 1955, first served as a missionary priest in Peru before serving as prior general of the Augustinians from Rome for more than ten years. He also serves as the head of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. He underlined the need for a bishop to be a pastor who can establish personal relationships with community members, mainly priests, and act as both a father and a brother. He emphasized the value of maintaining this closeness while excluding anyone.

In addition, Prevost said that a bishop needed to be "Catholic" in the sense of having a broader perspective on the Church and the world, as well as understanding the Church's universality and looking beyond his diocese.

According to CBCP News, he also pointed out the importance of exercising caution when using social media sites like Twitter because they may foster dissent and controversy. While social media presents communication opportunities, he pointed out that it also carries threats and can weaken the Church's unity.

Bishops must be able to listen to others, ask for counsel, and retain their spiritual and psychological maturity, according to Prevost. He emphasized that power should be used to assist and support priests in their roles as pastors and educators.

Prevost stressed the importance of listening to one another and realizing that debates shouldn't be limited to political goals regarding the Synod on Synodality. Instead, attention should be paid to receiving guidance from the Holy Spirit and appreciating the charisms, gifts, and ministries the Church offers.

Also Read:Youngstown Catholic Church Diocese Priest Elevated to Prestigious Vatican Position

Archbishop Prevost Advocates for Unity and Inclusivity in Church Leadership

In an interview with the Vatican News, archbishop Prevost recently emphasized the value of inclusivity and unity in the Catholic Church's leadership, especially in times of heightened conflict. The importance of participation, communion, and mission in the work of the Synod, the Church's highest governing body, was stressed by him.

Prevost praised how the selection of new bishops is growing and becoming more inclusive with involvement from different community members, strengthening the Church's leadership. The Pope's choice to name three women to the Dicastery for Bishops, the Vatican division in charge of choosing bishops, represents a significant step in this field.

The Archbishop applauded this choice, praising these women's enrichment and significant contributions. While women's appointment signals progress toward greater diversity and representation in the Church's leadership, Prevost's message, which promotes inclusivity and unity, highlights the need for ongoing discussion and collaboration within the ecclesial community.

Related Article: Vatican Cites Communication Breakdown for Anglican Service in Pope's Roman Church
Will they, or wont they? The question of white evangelical voters support for former president Donald Trump isnt over yet.

As Florida governor Ron DeSantis seems to be preparing to formally enter the Republican presidential primary for 2024, it could launch a notorious new season, set in sunny Florida and shaped by a buzzy subplot about Christian nationalism, which DeSantis and Trump alike have been accused of propagating.

Trumps use of Christianity as a political prop is by now well known. Though demonstrably unfamiliar with basic aspects of the faith, the former president gamely toted his Christianity around on the campaign trail and in office. (Sometimes he literally toted it, as when he held up the Bible in front of a church sign for a photoshoot.) In 2016 and 2020, Trump hit his marks, visiting Christian colleges, conferences, and churches, and this year, hes been eager to remind Christian votersparticularly evangelicalshow well that played with many of them before.

But compared to 2020, when Trump ran functionally unopposed for the GOP nod, in 2024 hell have competition. DeSantis, widely expected to be Trumps most formidable primary opponent, is an especially interesting example here, as his campaign use of Christianity is more knowledgeable and sophisticated than Trumps has tended to be. Will evangelicals see him as one of our own?

A practicing Catholic, DeSantis has a facility with biblical references Trump could never quite master, and he fits comfortably in evangelical culture in a way Trump does not. Hes a throwback to pre-Trump Republican appeals to white evangelicals as a voting bloc, in which candidates often identified with evangelicalism to a degree Trump has never attempted. (Trump speaks of the evangelicals just as he does of the Jews, linguistically placing himself outside each category.)

Whether DeSantis can put his cultural expertise to effective use remains to be seen. Once he announces, however, the show will really get going. Background playersincluding anticipated and declared candidates like former vice president Mike Pence, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haleywill have their scenes, vying for second billing after the midseason break. And episode recaps will abound: Evangelical leader X declines to endorse at this time. Candidate Y says God led him to run for president. The Z campaigns secret weapon with Iowa evangelicals.

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Christianity itself will appear as a campaign prop, with large block letters for easy identification onscreen and a strategically smoothed silhouette, ambiguous enough that any audience member, if so inclined, could tell herself thats just like the Christianity she has at home.

There have been only glimpses of DeSantiss version of campaign Christianity so far, but what little we have seen has been revealing. As much as he sometimes feels like a pre-2016 throwback where evangelical outreach is concerned, DeSantis is decidedly a post-Trump candidate too, with a brash culture-war pugilism almost every GOP contender will try to emulate this cycle.

His God made a fighter ad, launched during his gubernatorial campaign last year but clearly intended for a national audience, is a slick amalgamation of the two sides and probably a good forecast of Christianitys place in this race. Thats why we should notice how little of Christ this campaign-prop Christianity contains. In fact, the ad never mentions Jesus at all.

It has no specifically Christian imagery, not even a cross. Church, visualized as disembodied raised hands, comes up only as a destination a DeSantis voter might wish to visit. Though clearly intended to appeal to evangelicals, theres nothing specifically Christian here, let alone anything evangelical. A Jewish or Mormon candidate could produce the same adcut off the first five words (And on the eighth day) and a Muslim or generically deist candidate could too.

And beyond that deliberate religious ambiguity, this ad isnt really about God or faith at all. DeSantis is the one who will save the peoples jobs, their livelihoods, their liberty, their happiness. Hes the hero of this tale. The narrator quotes imagined words from God at length, but God isnt the object of praise here. Gods the one doing the praising. Hes praising Ron DeSantis.

Shrunk down to prop size and glazed in cheeky mid-century nostalgia, Christianity serves the campaign, not the other way around. The result is a clever ad, delivered in Christianese fluent enough to appeal to a large and useful voting bloc but vague enough to avoid highlighting the candidates nonevangelical theology, alienating people who call themselves evangelicals only because of their politics, or turning off the growing post-religious right. I suspect it will be imitated widely in the months to come, maybe even revamped by DeSantis himself for his official national debut.

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None of this is to suggest DeSantis and his fellow candidates are insincere in their own faith. I can only make educated guesses as to whats in their hearts (Matt. 12:3437), and I know for certain I too have acted out of selfish ambition or vain conceit (Phil. 2:3), failed to draw near to God (James 4:8), and conform[ed] to the pattern of this world (Rom. 12:2).

But we dont need to judge others faith to get into no true Christian territory or to say campaign-prop Christianity isnt really Christianity at all. The fullness of the Deity (Col. 2:9) can fit inside a baby, but not inside a campaign ad.
In 2018, Britta Wallbaum and Lindsey Goetz traveled to a worship conference in Nashville. They hoped to come away with new resources to engage children in musical worship at their Presbyterian church in Aurora, Illinois. As they browsed merchandise for leaders displayed in the rows of vendor booths, neither could find the item they had hoped for: a hymnal for children.

There were zero resources to share with kids, said Wallbaum. There were songbooks [for children] with sheet music but no ways to actually engage kids with them.

The two friends wandered the exhibit hall separately, not knowing that the other was looking for the same thing. When they realized their common goal, it seemed like a divine appointment. They decided to make the resource they wanted for their church and for their own children.

The Gospel Story Hymnal is the product of years of writing, illustration, and curation by Wallbaum and Goetz, who formed Word & Wonder to provide resources for worshipers of all ages, including children.

Crowdfunded by a Kickstarter campaign, the hymnal is a collection of 150 hymns, including centuries-old mainstays like A Mighty Fortress Is Our God and All Glory, Laud and Honor and more recent works like Michael Cards Barocha. It also contains a schedule that families can use to work through each hymn and the accompanying commentary over a three-year period.

There are five sections in the hymnal: Creation, Rebellion, Redemption, Already, but Not Yet, and Restoration. Wallbaum and Goetz wanted the hymns to help tell a broad, unified story.

The Bible isn't a bunch of disconnected stories with good morals. Its an interconnected story that all points to Jesus. Somehow I had missed that for the first 30 years of my life, Wallbaum said. So, this hymnal resource  We needed to build that idea of this overarching story into itthe gospel story, supported by all these different hymns and themes.

The hymn settings appear alongside Wallbaums vibrant watercolor illustrations and original commentary by Goetz.

Wallbaum, an architect, felt inspired to provide the artwork for the book herself. She spent months experimenting with different techniques and styles before developing a watercolor collage process inspired by Eric Carle.

Each hymn has additional commentary regarding its theological importance, word definitions, applicable context information, scripture references, and/or worship notes, all written at an elementary level, according the Word & Wonder website.

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The authors did not alter or simplify the hymn texts for children. Wallbaum and Goetz believe that there is a benefit to having children sing the original words, even if they are challenging.

You dont grow out of hymns; you grow into them, Goetz said. As we journey in our life with God, the hymns can unfold greater meaning to us. They are pieces of faith formation that can grow with you.

Rather than offer simplified hymns, Wallbaum hopes that her original illustrations and the accompanying commentary and scripture will draw children in and impart a sense of belonging in what can sometimes feel like grown-up church.

Goetz, the childrens minister at First Presbyterian Church in Aurora and spiritual director of Word & Wonder, believes strongly in the importance of multigenerational worship.

According to Goetz, a better indicator of whether a high school student will remain a Christian after they graduate is whether they worshiped with their church community, not whether they attend youth group.

Goetz, who is working toward a masters degree in educational ministries through Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, spends a lot of time thinking about how childhood experiences in the church shape lifelong faith.

If our church worship services are not welcoming to children, they need to change. What we see in Scripture is this call for the people of God to worship together.

For both Wallbaum and Goetz, hymns have been powerful agents of spiritual formation. Wallbaums love of hymnody developed while she was a college student at Wheaton. Some of her professors would begin class by having students sing a hymn together. She was introduced to her favorite hymn Be Still, My Soul by her computer science professor, who had the class sing it at the beginning of a course meeting. When she got married, Wallbaum walked down the aisle to the hymn.

It speaks to my soul, and it has walked me through so many phases of my life, Wallbaum said.

In The Gospel Story Hymnal, Be Still, My Soul appears with an illustration of Jesus calming a storm.

Goetz has seen the enduring power of hymns in her life and in the lives of family members who walked with God for a lifetime.

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When someone has dementia, you watch them decline for years, Goetz said, sharing the story of her grandfathers death and the role singing hymns had in his final days.

Goetz remembers singing around her grandfathers bed as he was receiving hospice care. She remembers the late afternoon light and the sound of her family singing hymns together, including And Can It Be. She remembers the sound of her fathers strong, deep voice and her aunts clear, confident harmonies.

My grandmas voice was cracking with tears. We couldnt hear my grandpa, but his mouth was moving with the words we were singing.

For Goetz, the memory of her grandfather recalling the words of hymns of the faith in his last hours powerfully illustrates the unique resonance and endurance of hymnody.

Now that The Gospel Story Hymnal is fully funded for a run of 3,000 copies, Wallbaum and Goetz expect books to be printed and shipped by September 2023. Wallbaum is finishing the final illustrations and is working on finalizing copyright licensing for all 150 hymnsno small feat. While many are in the public domain, 64 of them are still under copyright, and many of those have more than one copyright holder.

Its close to 100 copyright agreements Ive ended up getting, said Wallbaum. For some I've actually had to get in touch with all the different songwriters, make a copyright license, and meet with them to sign. It's been  It's been a process.

The creation of The Gospel Story Hymnal has been a rewarding and demanding undertaking for the authors. Goetz said that the prospect of giving this resource to churches looking to be more welcoming to children makes all the labor worthwhile.

What I have seen at my church, in a congregation where children are welcomed and includedand of course we are still growing in thisI see children who can conceive of themselves as meaningful and important parts of the church, said Goetz.

Goetz and Wallbaum, both mothers of young children, hope that The Gospel Story Hymnal will become a physical indicator in pews and seatbacks that children are welcome in the sanctuary.

Experiencing belonging is one of the most important parts of how early faith develops. What's kept me going is the idea of seeing these [hymnals] in the pews and knowing that a child will open a book that's in the pew and say, Oh, this is for me.
Last year, I began reading Herman Melvilles Moby Dick. At first, I was swept away by Ishmaels beautiful descriptions of his passion for the sea. But I grew increasingly uncomfortable in chapter two, when Ishmael accidentally stumbles into a Black, presumably Christian, worship service.

He shockingly describes the gathering as a great Black Parliament sitting in Tophet (another name for hell) and the preacher as a black Angel of Doom. In the next chapter, we meet the Native American character Queequeg, whose first words are Who-e debel you?  you no speak-e, dam-me, I kill-e, before he is promptly labeled as a cannibal.

What do we do with racist passages in classic books like thisespecially as readers of color?

As a lifelong lover of books, I heartily applaud that many Christians seem to have a vested interest in preserving and championing classic Western literature.

In On Reading Well and various articles, Karen Swallow Prior writes about how good books can help cultivate our virtues. Similarly, Jessica Hooten Wilson has said that books help us to be holier. They can sharpen our worldview and help us develop empathy. Reading good books can, as Philip Ryken writes, sanctify our imaginations and nourish our love for beauty; it can even help us be more effective teachers, preachers, and leaders.

As a nonwhite Christian, however, I find that most discussions of reading classic Western literature today either fail to acknowledge or only tangentially mention two difficult truths.

First, even if a book is not overtly racist, readers of color must inevitably reckon with the hostility, condescension, and suspicion toward people of other races that permeated the historic periods in which much of these classic authors lived.

Melville and Dickens, Bronte and Byron, Twain and Tolkien were all embedded in cultures that subjugated entire continents of people to slavery and imperialism. It is simply not enough to tell a reader of color that these were bygone times, for we know better than anyone else that racism still exists today.

The second truth about much of English literaturewhich is difficult to reconcile with the firstis that it is a part of our Christian past. From Chaucer to Joyce, Christianity is baked into many of the plots, themes, and characters of numerous classic works of the West.

On the one hand, this makes the reading of classics an enlightening tool for believers. Kathleen Nielson writes that Christians should read classics, because classics tell our story. At the most recognizable level, many Western literary classics tell our Christian story in various ways because they emerge from cultures shaped by Christianity.

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For readers of color, however, the Christian story is more problematic.

Aside from the fact that Western literature often ignores the full story of early Christianitys flourishing in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, the classics also tell (or do not tell) of periods of slavery and lynching, discrimination and othering, dehumanizing mass incarceration and barred entry, often enacted by those who considered themselves devout believers of the faith.

And although the global face of Christianity has changed drastically since then, for readers of color, the very cultures that deny us are also the historic stewards of the religion that saves us. Thus, classic English literature is at once a dagger and an enigma to meas well as a beloved passion that plays at my deepest heartstrings.

For example, Emily Dickinson, a devout Christian and a poet I love dearly, writes in His oriental heresies: His oriental heresies / Exhilarate the Bee, / And filling all the Earth and Air / With gay apostasy. In this poem, her image of what it means to be oriental implicates both a heresy and an exhilaration, a kind of thrilling, mildly threatening apostasy.

Her views are telling of the times, which often cast Asian women as exotic subhuman beings. In The Making of Asian America, Erika Lee describes how the first-recorded Chinese woman arrived in the United States in 1834, when Dickinson would have been four years old. Nineteen-year-old Afong Moy was kept in a re-created Chinese Saloon exhibit for eight hours a day.

Visitors would pay money to watch Moy use chopsticks and marvel at her national costume and tiny bound feet. Later, when she grew older, she was sold to a circus before disappearing from history. It is reasonable to assume that many of the visitors to the Chinese Saloon exhibit were Christian, given the historical records of the time.

One such record is from Alexis de Tocqueville, who visited the US in the 1830s and remarked, There is no country in the whole world in which the Christian religion retains a greater influence over the souls of men.

Of course, classic literature is much more than its racist contexts and passages. But failing to acknowledge the difficult and complicated truths of our past, we can come across as tone-deaf in an increasingly diverse landscape.

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If we are to defend the classics, we must also answer the difficult question of why nonwhite readers, particularly Christians, should keep reading them.

In his discussion about the cross of Jesus, Reading While Black author Esau McCaulley asks, What is Gods first answer to black suffering (and the wider human suffering and the rage that comes alongside it)? It is to enter it alongside us as a friend and redeemer. The answer to black rage is the calming words of the Word made flesh.

That incarnation touches even the pages of classic Western literature. I believe that through books like these, we can train our eyes to look the past square in the face. We can use our theological imaginations to envision Jesus sitting beside us as we read the great literary works of the pastweeping with us, angry along with us, loving humanity with us.

Before we can examine what this means, we must realize that discussions about classic literature and its racist problem are not new. Many readers today, Christian and non-Christian alike, have thrown out classic works for this very reason.

For example, some have perceived classic childrens literature like Tin Tin in the Congo, Peter Pan, and Little House on the Prairie as threats to the moral development of youngsters not yet desensitized to the seductions of neocolonialist apologetics. The solution has been to rename awards, ban books, and discontinue titles, stirring up flurries of controversy.

On the other end of the ideological spectrum, conservative Christians are party to various billslike those in Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Tennesseethat propose to charge librarians for stocking certain books, prohibit books on topics like sexual identity, and remove books that include nudity or curse words.

Whether they are too neocolonialist or, on the other hand, too woke, many books are in the hot seat today. An article in The New York Times says that parents, activists, school board officials, and lawmakers around the country are challenging books at a pace not seen in decades.

But I would argue that a curious thing happens when thoughtful Christian readers engage with dangerous literature, even those written in blood-stained times.

In her essay Reading Racist Literature for The New Yorker, Elif Batuman describes the rewarding experience of watching a play called An Octoroonwhich is an empowering modern reworking of a racist melodrama from 1859 called The Octoroon. Its problematic name was a forgotten word once used to describe nonwhite people in the same terms as breeds of livestock.

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Batuman asks a rhetorical question: What do you do with your mixed feelings toward a text that treats as stage furniture the most grievous and unhealed insult in American historyespecially when you belong to the insulted group?  How do you rehabilitate your love for art works based on expired and inhuman social valuesand why bother?

She continues, Its easier to just discard the works that look as ungainly to us now as The Octoroon. But if you dont throw out the past, or gloss it over, you can get something like An Octoroon: a work of joy and exasperation and anger that transmutes historical insult into artistic strength (emphasis added).

As Batuman writes in another essay when discussing Leo Tolstoys Hadji Murat and Anna Karenina, these reworked stories can reveal different truths from different points in space and time, perhaps even destabilizing the structures it once bolstered. She continues that its almost as though the meaning of the novel itself could, and would, keep changing.

In other words, such retellings often have the power to change the classic works themselves.

One excellent example is Jean Rhyss Wide Sargasso Sea, written from the perspective of Bertha, the woman in the attic of Charlotte Brontes Jane Eyrewho is described only through her unhappy husband Rochesters words as being born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, and having Creole heritage.

In holding a microphone to Berthas voice, Rhys, as a colonized woman herself, reshapes the very narrative of Jane Eyre. Wide Sargasso Sea shows that classic literature is not static but alive.

Joseph S. Walker calls Rhyss retelling a re-vision that changes the nature and possible readings of the classic work because it speaks from the margin, and in so doing changes the center.

Our very act of reading as Christians of color conjures up the dead of history and continues their unfinished conversations. We not only speak from the margins, but we can also change the very center. And in the process, we participate in Jesus workof making all things new, of restoring the dignity of all peoples, and of moving toward true forgiveness.

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Readers of color can revise condemnable narratives not only through our retellings but also simply through our reading and our presence.

When I read Jane Eyre in high school and encountered the scene where Rochester puts on blackface, our classs conversation was transformed simply because my Black classmates were in the room. Their perspectives shaped my reading of the text and shape it still.

We see history, literature, and the world more clearly when nonwhite eyes read the books of the past. Our story as humanity is made more whole when historically colonized and marginalized peoples wade into the streams of classic Western literature with our eyes wide openbecause there are some things that only we can see.

In this way, the pages of classics can point more clearly to the Great Story that will someday be told not just in one language by one people but by people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.

The gospel is, after all, a story that is interwoven through all of history. To believe in Jesus Christ is to believe that he can one day redeem even historys most painful and ugliest parts. We can have hope that the Lord is doing that even now.

Karen Swallow Prior has written that Aristotle considered literature to be a training ground for the emotions. And for Christian readers of color, classic literature becomes another kind of training ground: practice in forgiveness.

For us, this work of forgiveness is not a sentimental exercise. Rather, growing in love for our neighbors through the pages of old books is splintery and, at times, excruciating workmuch like carrying a cross.

It is uncomfortable and difficult, and it isnt for everyone. But for those who can endure it, the pages of great books give us a front-row seat to wrestling with one of the greatest questions of life: What does it mean to love and forgive our enemies?

If we want to know the true story of Christianity, we must remember that Jesus was not fair-haired, white, and English like the Pevensies in C. S. Lewiss The Chronicles of Narnia. He was a poor, dark-skinned Middle Eastern man, more like the character Shasta in that same work. Jesus spent his life not in the palaces of imperial Rome but in the subjugated slums of Galilee among an occupied people. He lived a life well acquainted with sorrow and rejection.

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The same Jesus who is with us in the pages of Melville is with us when a guy at the mall shouts racist obscenities. He is not afraid of our questions. He sees our hurt. And perhaps most importantly, he will not leave things the way they are.

In every racist remark or characterization found in classic literature, the tides turn when we realize that the real Jesus is standing in the marginsquietly suffering alongside readers of color and transforming the very center of the world.

This knowledge changes the way we read.

I cringe whenever people discuss the value of literature in terms of measurable, utilitarian outcomes. Should we read the classics only if they make us more virtuous and effective leaders? Should we support literary works only if studies show that they increase our intelligence or focus?

Many of us love literature most of all because we find it beautiful. In Rembrandt Is in the Wind, Russ Ramsey writes that beautiful words, like beautiful art, take the pursuit of truth past the accumulation of knowledge to the proclamation and application of truth in the name of caring for others. Beauty draws us deeper into community.

He continues, We ache to share the experience of beauty with other people, to look at someone near us and say, Do you hear that? Do you see that? How beautiful!

Great literature speaks to us of eternity. It can make us yearn for God and deepen our vision for our current reality. It can open our ears to cultural resonances across history and cultivate in us a humility of time and place.

I am immensely thankful for the authors who forged a path for writers of color today: Toni Morrison, Langston Hughes, and Amy Tan, just to name a few. I encourage my white Christian friends to explore not only these classics but also the vast and growing number of books written by nonwhite writers today, as well as classics in non-Western cultures.

May our reading help us love the real people around us. May we learn to humbly express the words of C. S. Lewis, My own eyes are not enough for me; I will see through those of others.

Some literature will not survive the time jump into our modern era. But to embalm every problematic tome in the tombs of the ivory tower would be our loss. If a work of literature is truly a classic, it will break the cycle of injustice by subversively lending itself to our theological imaginations, to our re-visionings, and to our participation in Jesus work of making all things new.

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Then perhaps these reimagined works of literary art can, in the words of Miroslav Volf, become a bridge between adversaries instead of a deep and dark ravine that separates them.

For this to happen, Christian readers of color must stay in the rooms where classic Western literature is being discussed. These books still have something to sayand some of these things can be said only through us.

Sara Kyoungah White is a Korean American writer and editor. She has a BA in English literature from Cornell University and currently serves as the senior editor for the Lausanne Movement.
Gov. Greg Abbott, Texas officials attend church prayer vigil for victims of Allen outlet mall shooting

ALLEN, Texas  Hundreds of residents, law enforcement and elected officials gathered Sunday at a North Texas megachurch to pray for the families of those who lost loved ones in a shooting at a local outlet mall.

Cottonwood Creek Church in Allen, located about 2 miles from the Allen Premium Outlets, held a community prayer service that drew mourners from both the community and across the state, including Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Attorney General Ken Paxton, and more than two dozen other elected officials.

A heavy police presence was visible from the Sam Rayburn Tollway just north of the campus as a car line stretched back more than half a mile as crowds poured into the megachurch parking lot, where more than a dozen protesters stood with signs reading, Let this radicalize you and My kids are worth more than your guns.

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Boxes of Kleenex were available for those entering the worship center, a symbol of the raw emotion still heavy among the community just hours after a gunman killed eight people and injured seven others before being fatally shot by police at the Allen Premium Outlets mall Saturday afternoon.

With uniformed police and state troopers looking on, several speakers took to the stage to offer prayers of hope, comfort and love, but not before the crowd rose to its feet in a standing ovation for all those first responders who rushed to the chaotic scene at the outlet mall.

Allen Mayor Ken Fulk said even as the shooting continues to be an ongoing investigation, he urged those in attendance to pray for the city of Allen, which has over 109,000 residents and is located about 20 miles northwest of Dallas.

Were proud to call Allen home, said Fulk. Allen is full of kind and compassionate citizens. We are in shock and are all grieving together.

Graema Golding, a teaching pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church, urged the audience to pray for wisdom for the citys officials in the coming days and weeks before reading 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, which speaks of the God of all comfort.

Golding called on the people of Allen to bring that message to others who might be grieving.

As we all go back into our community, that we would be the hands and feet of Jesus, that would love and serve our community with love and grace, he said.

Moments after Cottonwood Creek Church Sr. Pastor John Mark Caton took the stage, a protester dressed in an orange shirt stood up and began yelling, What about some gun laws? What about Republicans? Stop the killing! before being safely escorted out of the church by security.

After the incident, Caton acknowledged the difficulty of trying to provide a proof text or a solitary Bible verse that would bring immediate healing and comfort.

He spoke of living in the in-between in the here and now, between a fallen world full of violence and suffering and a Kingdom to come, one in which there will be no more pain and suffering.

I think every one of us longs in our heart for a better place, we long for a better community, we long for better kids, we long for better families, he said, pointing to humanitys current path from the first murder in Genesis 4 to the hope of a new Heaven and a new Earth at the end of the book of Revelation.

That, said Caton, is where we should fix our gaze.

Therell be no more need for community services, for prayer times together, healing hurts, he said.

And until then, Caton added, those who call themselves by the name of Christ should do as He taught at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, where He proclaimed, Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Lets be people who comfort those who mourn, pray for those who grieve, that bring the oil of joy in the spaces of sadness, said Caton.

During the earlier Sunday morning services, Caton said students who attend Cottonwood were at the outlet mall when the shooting started, according to The Associated Press.

Some of our people were there. Some perhaps in this room. Some of our students were working in those stores and will be changed forever by this, he said.

Ministers and licensed professionals were made available after the services concluded for those who needed prayer and grief counseling.

The shooting Saturday afternoon left eight people dead, including children, and injured seven others. The shooter was killed by an on-duty police officer who happened to be at the mall on an unrelated call.

Citing law enforcement officials, the AP reported authorities have identified the gunman as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia.

Witnesses at the mall told The Associated Press they saw several victims, including some who seemed to be children. They also reported seeing a police officer and a security guard who appeared to be unconscious on the ground.

At least nine people were hospitalized following the incident, with their ages ranging from 5 to 61, according to a spokesperson for Medical City Healthcare, which operates three trauma facilities treating the victims.
Gunman kills at least 8, including children, at Texas mall

A lone gunman opened fire at a bustling mall north of Dallas, Texas, killing at least eight people, including children, and injuring seven others. The shooter was killed by an on-duty police officer who happened to be at the mall on an unrelated call.

At a news conference late Saturday, Allen Police Chief Brian E. Harvey told reporters the officer heard gunshots at 3:36 p.m. local time outside the Allen Premium Outlets mall and immediately engaged with the suspect, neutralizing the threat.

The identities of the gunman and the victims had not been released as of early Sunday.

U.S. Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas., confirmed multiple fatalities, including children, but said authorities remain unsure of the shooters motive, CBS News said.

Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos, showing terrified shoppers running through the malls parking lot as loud pops echoed in the background.

Reuters said television aerial footage captured hundreds of individuals calmly exiting the mall, about 25 miles northeast of Dallas, following the violent incident. Many of them had their hands raised while a significant number of police officers maintained a vigilant presence.

An anonymous eyewitness, speaking to local ABC affiliate WFAA-TV, described the gunman as walking down the sidewalk just ... shooting his gun outside, and that he was just shooting his gun everywhere for the most part.

Visible traces of blood stained the sidewalks outside the mall, and white sheets concealed what appeared to be lifeless bodies.

Speaking with CNN, Kimberly Blakey recounted her experience fleeing the parking lot with her 14-year-old daughter during the attack, describing the continuous gunfire. In their attempt to escape, they initially drove toward the gunshots before turning around and getting caught in a traffic jam with other fleeing vehicles.

Their car was hit twice by bullets. I told my daughter to get down. She did, and I could hear her start praying, Blakey was quoted as saying. Despite a flat tire warning, they continued driving until they reached home.

Witnesses at the mall told The Associated Press they saw several victims, including some who seemed to be children. They also reported seeing a police officer and a security guard who appeared to be unconscious on the ground.

At least nine people were hospitalized following the incident, with their ages ranging from 5 to 61, according to a spokesperson for Medical City Healthcare, which operates three trauma facilities treating the victims, according to The New York Times.

A picture acquired by CNN seemingly displays the shooter on the ground after being struck, with a firearm resembling an AR-15 close by. Dressed in black body armor, he appears to have multiple additional magazines fastened to his chest equipment.

A law enforcement source was quoted as saying authorities believe they have located the deceased suspect's vehicle, and as a precautionary measure, a bomb squad was inspecting it early Sunday.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott expressed his condolences, calling the incident an unspeakable tragedy. He offered the full support of the state, including resources and assistance, to help local officials in their response to the tragedy.

Abbott told media he has been in touch with the mayor of Allen and the Texas Department of Public Safety, offering the assistance of Texas Rangers and other investigative resources. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has also responded to the scene.

The mall, which features over 120 stores, was filled with weekend shoppers at the time of the shooting.

The Gun Violence Archive has recorded at least 198 shootings this year thus far, the highest number at this point in the year since at least 2016, Reuters noted.
A poster for the 2023 Brisbane Writers Festival / Courtesy of LTI Korea



By Kwak Yeon-soo



Five Korean writers, whose works gained more recognition through English translation, will participate in the 2023 Brisbane Writers Festival, which runs from May 10-14.



Founded in 1962, the Brisbane Writers Festival is the oldest continuous writers' festival in Australia and, as a large-scale literary festival, has more than 160 side events.



The Literature Translation Institute (LTI) of Korea said Chung Bora, the author of "Cursed Bunny," which was shortlisted for last year's International Booker Prize, and Choi Eun-young, whose English edition of short story collection "Shoko's Smile" was published by Penguin, will discuss the art of short fiction in the "Why is Short Fiction Important? (South Korean Focus)" session.



Bae Suah, the author of "Nowhere to be Found," which was longlisted for a PEN Translation Prize in 2016, and Krys Lee, a Korean-American writer and translator, will take part in a "Border Crossing" session to talk about how translation informs their writing process and the cross-cultural potentialities of literature.



"Despite the language difference, I was surprised that literature transcends national boundaries and can be delivered directly to the readers," Bae said.



Lee Young-ju, who won the 2022 Lucien Stryk Asian Translation Prize with her poetry collection "Cold Candies," will take part in "Self-expression and Social Critique: Women's Writing in South Korea" session along with Chung. She will also engage in poetry reading in the "All I Have is a Voice" poetry salon.



This year, the festival named Korea as the country of focus, which was introduced in 2022 to celebrate a particular country or region within the Indo-Pacific region.



"The fact that Korea was selected as the second country of focus at such a large-scale literary festival is an opportunity to reaffirm the potential of Korean literature," an LTI Korea official said.



"We will extend our support to introduce the dynamic and diverse landscape of Korean literature and Korean writers to the global stage."




Nashville pastor Scott Sauls placed on leave following investigation into his conduct: 'I have hurt people'

Nashville-based pastor and bestselling author Scott Sauls has been placed on an indefinite leave of absence from his position as pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church.

The announcement was made Sunday during a member meeting at the church, a prominent Presbyterian Church in America congregation, Religion News Service reported.

According to the outlet, the decision to place Sauls on leave followed an investigation into his conduct as a leader by Christ Presbyterian and the Nashville Presbytery. The investigation was initiated after a group of former church staff members sent a letter raising concerns about the pastors behavior.

Sauls apologized to the congregation in a video message for his unhealthy leadership style that caused harm to both his staff and the church, RNS reported. However, he made it clear that he had not been involved in any sexual scandal or substance abuse.

I verbalized insensitive and verbal criticism of others work, he said, according to RNS. Ive used social media and the pulpit to quiet dissenting viewpoints. Ive manipulated facts to support paths that I desire.

I am grieved to say that I have hurt people, he said. I want to say to all of you that I am sorry.

During his leave of absence, Sauls reportedly plans to seek counseling and engage in repentance.

At the member meeting, the church's elders also acknowledged their own failures in allowing an unhealthy culture among the staff. They expressed hope that the leave would bring about healing and reconciliation.

Sauls' status as a pastor will be reviewed by the Nashville Presbytery at an upcoming meeting.

Sauls, who is married with two daughters, previously served as the lead and preaching pastor at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City alongside Pastor Tim Keller. He has also planted and pastored churches in Kansas City and St. Louis, according to his bio.

Sauls has authored six books, many of them touching on topics including joy, shame, anxiety and depression. His 2022 book,A Gentle Answer, offers a vision for how Christians can practice gentleness in a culture largely defined by outrage and cynicism.

In a 2018 interview with The Christian Post, Sauls stressed the importance of pastors having accountability and warned that church leaders often become more susceptible to isolation and moral failure as their ministry grows.

"The bigger your church becomes, you begin to have more fans and admirers than you do actual friends," he said. "It's really important to be surrounded by people who are close enough to you, that they can express concern with you and your character and help steer you toward Christ. Pastors need to welcome this kind of friendship, community, and accountability."

In recent years, a number of reports involving alleged abuse of authority by leaders in churches and ministries have made headlines.

In 2020, the board of the church planting group Acts 29 voted to remove CEO Steve Timmis from the global church planting network after investigating accusations about his alleged "abusive leadership" style.

In 2019, James MacDonald was ousted from Harvest Bible Chapel due in part to allegations of financial abuse and bullying.

Most publicly, in 2014, Mark Driscoll, the former pastor of the now-defunct Seattle megachurch Mars Hill, was forced to resign from his position following accusations of bullying and fostering an abusive work environment.

Ronnie Floyd, senior pastor of Cross Church of Northwest Arkansas, previously told CP that pastors, just like everyone else, are not exempt from spiritual warfare, and Satan loves to attack those who lead God's church.

He encouraged church members to "gather together and pray for your pastor, that there will be a shield of protection around him, and that he will be able to discern when something isn't right and flee from it like Joseph (in Genesis) did."
Suspended progressive UMC bishop moves toward church trial

A theologically progressive bishop of The United Methodist Church will soon face a church trial, over a year after she was suspended when two complaints were filed against her.

Bishop Minerva Carcano of the San Francisco Episcopal Area was placed on leave last year after two complaints were received by the UMC Western Jurisdiction of Bishops.

The Western Jurisdiction Committee on the Episcopacy and the Western Jurisdiction College of Bishops announced last Thursday that they were unable to reach a just resolution with Carcano regarding the complaints.

The announcement noted that five charges would be brought to trial based on the UMC Book of Discipline Paragraph 2702.1, though the exact charges were not laid out in the announcement.

In the meantime, Carcano will remain suspended from her duties, with Bishop Sally Dyck, who has been serving as interim bishop for San Francisco, remaining in her role.

WJCB President Bishop Dottie Escobedo-Frank was quoted in the announcement as saying that the bishops continue to hope and seek for a just resolution while preparing for trial.

We ask all to join us in prayers for all the complainants, Bishop Carcano, the California-Nevada Annual Conference and the Western Jurisdiction, added Escobedo-Frank.

In a pastoral letter sent to the members of the California-Nevada Conference the same day as the Western Jurisdiction's announcement, interim Bishop Dyck acknowledged that the news of the church trial will elicit a diversity of perspectives and feelings that can result in further division and hurt.

I would encourage all of us to pull together as the body of Christ in the California-Nevada Annual Conference, wrote Dyck. As we navigate this difficult season, draw strength in knowing that the United Methodist community is praying for you.

Ordained in 1976 and elected the first Hispanic female bishop in the UMC back in 2004, Carcano is known to be an outspoken supporter of various progressive causes.

She is a recognized immigrant rights advocate  [and] has published articles on the rights of migrants in the Huffington Post and The Hill and has testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security, noted a biography posted by the California-Nevada Conference.

Carcano has also long been an advocate for the full rights and inclusion of LGBTQIA+ persons joining her efforts to the work of such organizations as the Human Rights Campaign.

In March of last year, the UMC Western Jurisdiction leadership announced that Carcano was placed on leave from her episcopal duties while the regional body investigated two complaints against her.

Under church law, complaints regarding bishops are submitted to the president of the College of Bishops in the appropriate jurisdiction, stated the 2022 announcement.

A bishop may be suspended for a period not to exceed 60 days when deemed appropriate and shall receive full pay and benefits during that time while the allegations are under review.

Methodists Associated Representing the Cause of Hispanic/Latino Americans, the UMCs Hispanic caucus, has denounced the length of the suspension and has argued that Carcano should be reinstated.

By prohibiting Bishop Minerva Carcano from attending meetings and being in contact with persons affiliated with the organization at any level, is in our view, punitive and judgmental. This action has hurt and continues to hurt our ethnic ministries and missions, said MARCHA in a statement released in March.

The issue is that the prolonged suspension has damaged the reputation of Bishop Minerva Carcano and has discredited her faithful years of services and contributions to the California-Nevada Annual Conference.
This week in Christian history: Massachusetts bans Christmas, YMCA founder born

Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance.

Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births and notable deaths.

Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while others might be previously unknown by most people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the birth of the co-founder of the YMCA, Massachusetts banning Christmas, and the death of a prominent Moravian leader.

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Nearly half of PCUSA ministers say 'fatigue' a daily part of their lives, few take sabbaticals: survey

Nearly half of surveyed clergy in the Presbyterian Church (USA) report experiencing fatigue on a regular basis  yet few take sabbaticals, according to a newly released report that is part of a series of surveys on ministers in the denomination.

PC(USA) Research Services released a "Minister Wellbeing Report" on Monday based on data compiled from a survey of 4,495 PC(USA) ministers conducted between September and November 2019. Respondents to the survey represented 23% of all ordained ministers in the mainline Protestant denomination.

The data suggests that 49% of surveyed ministers said they experience fatigue daily. In addition, 35% of ministers expressed concern about burnout, while 32% were concerned with isolation. Only 34% of surveyed ministers reported taking a sabbatical.

Despite the concerns over fatigue and burnout, the survey also found that 90% of respondents reported having enthusiasm for their work. Overall, 89% believe their ministry work gives meaning and real purpose to their lives.

"Nearly half of the ministers report that they are tired. Most take a day off each week but nearly one-third have not taken an extended time to refresh, replenish, and spend time in spiritual reflection," the report reads.

"Fatigue is often associated with distancing oneself from constituents and family. If not attended, fatigue can lead to burnout."

Since the survey was conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, PC(USA) Research Services noted that the responses would most likely vary if the survey was conducted during the pandemic.

"The challenges and stresses of the pandemic impacted all of life  ministers and ministries included  and may have resulted in different responses in some instances had the survey occurred during the pandemic," researchers wrote.

"The results, nonetheless, provide insights into the experiences, thoughts, and feelings of PC(USA) ministers."

The study is the fifth of an eight-part series of PC(USA) reports published weekly on research regarding various aspects of ministers' lives in the denomination.

An earlier entry in the report series found that 44% of surveyed ministers said they were not trained to properly handle mental health issues when they arise in their congregations.

"A significant number of ministers have concerns about their abilities to recognize and respond appropriately when confronted with an issue related to mental health or substance abuse," wrote Jashalund Royston and Susan Barnett of PC(USA) Research Services last month.

"Forty-four percent report that they have not been trained to recognize mental health concerns. Even more, 54%, view themselves less than capable to respond effectively to a colleague who shows signs of a mental health concern or substance abuse."

The PC(USA) study corroborates previous statistics that show that 50% of pastors feel unable to meet the needs of the job, 90% feel inadequately trained to deal with ministry demands, 45.5% of pastors say they have experienced depression or burnout to the extent that they needed to take a leave of absence from ministry and 70% of pastors do not have someone they consider a close friend.

Scott Sauls, the senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, recently explained that pastors often feel lonely within their communities. The COVID pandemic, he said, has only exacerbated the loneliness many pastors feel.

"Case in point, 2020," he said. "You've got this dynamic where reality is 70% of pastors right now around America are looking for another job."

"Our people feel like they're still with us because they see us and hear us from their living rooms, and yet, we just have this complete void of relationship," Sauls explained. "Oftentimes, people treat the Church as a consumer good, [but pastors] see the Church as our family ... so the dynamic of loneliness and isolation is amplified in a time like this."

The current "negativity of environment" is often "taken out" on caregivers like pastors and therapists, Sauls contended. He urged pastors to fight isolation by cultivating close friendships and establishing community.

"It really is the perfect emotional storm right now for pastors," he said. "Fighting against isolation is utterly essential."
Christians among over 50 killed, 23,000 fleeing ethnic violence in northeast India

In Manipur, a state in northeastern India, violence has erupted claiming the lives of 58 individuals, many of whom were Christians, and resulting in the destruction or burning of at least 50 churches. The local Christian community has accused the Hindu nationalist government of supporting the attackers.

Beginning last Wednesday, the violence was reported in several areas in the state, but mostly in the Imphal Valley and Churachandpur. The Christian victims have identified the predominantly Hindu Meitei ethnic community as the attackers.

The Meiteis have experienced longstanding tensions with Christians, who are mostly from tribal communities, over land ownership and affirmative action policies.

At least 58 people have died in the ongoing violence, according to the Indian media outlet Scroll.in. Its not known how many of those killed are Christians, but reports coming from Manipur suggest the majority of them could be Christian.

As the suspension of telecommunication services in Manipur continues, determining the full scope of the damage suffered by the Christian community remains challenging. Nonetheless, after military personnel were sent to the impacted regions and police received shoot-at-sight orders on May 4, the intensity and frequency of the attacks diminished by late evening.

Close to 10,000 troops from the Army and Assam Rifles have been stationed in Manipur, according to media reports, which also say over 13,000 individuals have been relocated to secure shelters established by the Army and state government.

Numerous others have sought refuge in neighboring states such as Mizoram, Meghalaya and Nagaland, where Christians are in the majority.

Unverified reports say Christians were attacked in 27 villages. Until Thursday, Christians were being assaulted in the presence of state police and commandos, as mobs continued to roam the streets.

Tensions persisted, as of early Sunday. Nine out of the 16 districts in the state were under curfew, and internet services across the state remained suspended.

According to media reports, members of the Meitei community have also been attacked.

A public interest litigation petition was filed before the Supreme Court Saturday, alleging that the attacks on tribal communities in Manipur were supported by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, which is in power both in the state and at the national level, Bar and Bench reported.

The PIL claimed that 30 tribal people had been killed and 132 were injured, but no formal complaint had been registered by the police in relation to any of the incidents.

The petitioner called for a Special Investigation Team to be constituted, headed by Harekrishna Deka, former Director General of Police of Assam, and monitored by Chief Justice Tinlianthang Vaiphei, former Chairman of the Meghalaya State Human Rights Commission, in order to prosecute the accused.

The Meiteis mainly reside in the Imphal Valley, whereas Christians, originating from different tribal communities, dwell in the neighboring hills. Despite Hindus and Christians each constituting about 42% of the state's populace, the Meiteis have maintained dominance in both political and economic spheres.

The BJP secured a victory in the 2017 state election, after which Chief Minister N. Biren Singh redefined the majority of tribal settlements as reserved forests, essentially branding them as illegal immigrants. The tribals live in resource-rich forests.

Singh also reportedly ordered the demolition of churches in Imphal, claiming they were illegally constructed on government-owned land.

The Meitei community has been seeking legal recognition as a tribal group, which would grant them increased power through access to affirmative action and legal protections.

Last month, the states highest court instructed the government to consider the Meiteis demands, causing anxiety among the tribal communities. The violence broke out last Wednesday when a tribal student group staged a protest against the Meiteis demand for legal tribal group recognition.
Hear King Charles' coronation anthem Make a Joyful Noise based on Bible verse

Renowned British composer Lord Andrew Lloyd Webbers coronation anthem, Make a Joyful Noise, premiered during Saturdays Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Decca Records released the new single and album that are available for purchase with the proceeds going to the Royal British Legion and Age UK charities. The single is also now available for the public to download and enjoy.

The live recording of the world premiere performance at the coronation service will be included in The Official Recording of The Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III & Queen Camilla, Broadway World reported.

This official album, also released by Decca, features over four hours of music and spoken word from the global event, as well as an official photograph from the day as its cover art, the portal said.

The tradition of the coronation ceremony dates back more than 1,000 years, but it was made available globally to stream and download on the day of the service itself for the first time.

An official version of the coronation anthem, recorded at Abbey Road Studios with the Fanfare Trumpeters of the Royal Air Force, The Choir of Westminster Abbey and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, among others, can also be found on YouTube. The anthem is available on Apple Music and Spotify as well.

Lloyd Webber revealed to The Telegraph that the melody came quickly once he found the text, Psalm 98, which includes the words make a joyful noise.

The composer expressed his happiness to swear an oath of allegiance to the king, describing him as a remarkable man who could have a significant positive impact globally by bringing people back to forgotten values.

The anthem, inspired by verses from Psalm 98, was composed following the kings request for a hummable and joyful piece. The composer and the king reportedly hope that the anthem will endure and become a staple for joyous occasions in churches.

The longstanding relationship between Lloyd Webber and King Charles III has been nurtured by their shared interest in "unfashionable causes," such as promoting organ music among younger generations, The Telegraph noted, adding that their wives mutual love for horses has also contributed to the strengthening of their bond.

The initial conversation about the composition of the coronation anthem occurred a few months ago during a dinner with the king. During the selection process for the lyrics, the King initially showed interest in the words of Solomon but eventually settled on Psalm 98, traditionally believed to have been written by Solomon himself.

In March, Lloyd Webber experienced a personal loss when his son, Nick, a fellow composer, died at age 43 due to gastric cancer, the British newspaper said.

Nick was one of two children from Lloyd Webbers first marriage to Sarah Hugill. Despite looking forward to attending the Coronation, Lloyd Webber admitted it was a somber time for him.

Prior to the coronation day, he shared that being in the Abbey would bring considerable sadness, and he had yet to fully process the loss. However, he said he planned to follow his mothers advice to persevere and continue using his talents, even though he hasnt completely absorbed the impact of his sons passing.
Crisis in church leadership: How celebrity pastors can avoid failing the fame test

This is part 4 of The Christian Post's article series on the crisis of leadership in American Evangelicalism. Read part 1 here, read part 2 here and part 3 here.

When a monthslong independent investigation found credible evidence that Ravi Zacharias leveraged his reputation as a world-famous apologist to carry out years of sexual abuse, the response from the Evangelical community was predictably one of shock, horror and grief.

Many questioned how this pastor could effectively masquerade as a humble servant of Christ and fool millions of adoring supporters? How could this respected intellectual who preached the Gospel of Jesus with clarity and passion brazenly manipulate vulnerable women into providing him with sexual stimulation?

As the empire Zacharias built  all in the name of reaching the lost with the Gospel of Jesus Christ  came crashing down, perhaps the most devastating realization for many was just how damaging the blow his posthumous downfall was to the witness of the Body of Christ.

From the fraudulent ministry of Jim Bakker in the late 1970s and early 1980s to the recent slew of scandals surrounding Hillsong Church and one of its most popular pastors, Carl Lentz, the phenomenon of well-known Christian leaders engaging in misconduct is nothing new to the Western Church.

What then drives the dysfunction and lack of health seen in many church leaders today? Why do so many pastors in Western Evangelicalism fail the fame test despite the biblical example set by Jesus Himself?

The problem isnt with being a "celebrity Christian" itself; in fact, Jesus was regarded as a celebrity in the first century, as He was known far and wide for His miraculous acts.

Rich Villodas, the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, explained: Generally speaking, celebrity and Christianity are not necessarily contradictions in terms because notions of celebrity are often projected onto people, he said.

Redefining success in a secularized culture

In 21st century American Evangelicalism, it can be very tempting to shift toward a different model of success  one focused on money, fame and numbers  than the one outlined in Scripture.

Thats according to Scott Sauls, the senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and bestselling author. He told The Christian Post that biblically, success is defined as demonstrating faithfulness, character and integrity.

Integrity means being whole in our lives and in our ministries, and that means that we are whole disciples of Christ following the whole Scripture and the whole way that we do life and ministry, including the administrative part of it, he explained.

While administration and faithful and excellent organization are important to steward God's resources well, the measure of whether or not we're doing administration well is the character with which the churches are run and led.

The onus is on the Church to "redefine success"  and before hiring, churches must look deeper into a persons life, soul and background, according to Ed Young, the founding and senior pastor of Fellowship Church in Grapevine, Texas.

We cannot allow someone's great gift to overshadow a lack of integrity in some other area, he told CP. Many of the pastors who have publicly fallen in recent years exhibited patterns that were ignored by those closest to them because of their gifts, he continued.

Egyptian-American pastor and televangelist Michael Youssef of the Church of the Apostles in Atlanta, Georgia, lamented that in the Western Church, many pastors are not shepherds but celebrities and CEOs of an operation called the church."

"Thats fine if thats what they want to do, but don't call it the Church of Jesus Christ. Call it something else, Youssef said.

We have become a marketing operation and celebrity preachers. We're not servants of the living God. We're not there to serve God's people, minister to them, admonish them, rebuke, uphold, encourage, comfort and all of these things that the Scripture is very clear about. We have departed from that.

The secularization of culture, Youssef added, is a driving force behind this phenomenon  and its not to be ignored.

The secularization of the culture at large is impacting the Church, especially those who might not have their feet on the solid ground of the infallible Word of God who are ministering and pastoring out of an emotional, experiential kind of Christianity, rather than the solid Gospel foundational New Testament preaching," he relayed.

Pastor and author Tim Keller acknowledges that hes viewed as a celebrity pastor in some circles. The founding pastor of Redeemer Church in New York City, Kellers sermons are heard around the world and his books are read by millions.

And Keller understands that if he misuses his platform, a lot of Christians can be put to shame because of him.

And therefore, if God gives me a bigger platform, then I actually have a responsibility to not disappoint people, he told CP. Not to just look like a great person; I actually have to be holy; I have to actually mortify my sin. I have to have a prayer life. I have to do the stuff that every Christian needs to do. I don't have to be better than other Christians. I just need to be what God wants a Christian to be.

When pastors get to be well known, he said, the praise can turn their heads, the criticism can prompt self-pity and the overwork can cause them to neglect their prayer life.

For all those reasons, very often, so-called celebrity ministers and figures live lives less consistent with the Christian faith than Christians who are not so famous, Keller said.
Scott Sauls: Pastors must 'fight against isolation' amid uptick in suicide, mental illness

In a year when the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified feelings of loneliness and anxiety, its essential for pastors to fight isolation by cultivating true friendships and seeking community, Pastor Scott Sauls said.

Sauls, senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, on Wednesday participated in the Mental Health + Suicide session of the 2020 Q&A: A Virtual Townhall event, hosted by Gabe Lyons.

Sauls said that oftentimes, pastors feel lonely within their own communities.

Case in point, 2020, he said. You've got this dynamic where reality is 70% of pastors right now around America are looking for another job.

Because of the pandemic, many pastors feel ghosted by their congregations, the pastor said.

Our people feel like they're still with us because they see us and hear us from their living rooms, and yet, we just have this complete void of relationship, he explained. Oftentimes, people treat the church as a consumer good, [but pastors] see the church as our family ... so the dynamic of loneliness and isolation is amplified in a time like this.

The current negativity of environment is often taken out on caregivers like pastors and therapists, Sauls contended.

It really is the perfect emotional storm right now for pastors, he said. Fighting against isolation is utterly essential.

Sauls said that while he does not struggle with suicidal ideation, hes personally known fellow pastors who have died by suicide.

Its a desperate choice, he said. People don't want to be dead, they want to be relieved of whatever they're going through that leads them to this place. And for every single pastor that I've known, isolation has been ... the common thread.

What all of them shared is that they had more fans and followers than they had friends, said Sauls, adding that these pastors didnt actually have friends but instead had a counterfeit relationship with a public platform, social media fame, and putting the highlight reel out there for the world.

And so the other common thread besides isolation was a ton of admirers, he said, adding that oftentimes, pastors are falling apart behind the scenes.

The bestselling author admitted that he has historically struggled with anxiety and depression because of the ministry. While hearing of other pastors who commit suicide was at first jarring, hes no longer surprised when it happens.

I just try to comfort myself with the promises of the Gospel, that these guys arent judged by the last act that they committed, but by the last act that Jesus committed of being crucified, he said. Their judgment day is in the past, it was settled long before they were even born.

Reading the Bible, taking notes, and then reading them back brings about rest and restoration, Sauls said.

Sometimes the best way to pray is to get less and less and less creative, he said. The purpose of prayer is not to bend God's will to ours; its to bend our will to His. ... And so I find that incredibly centering, and there's no pressure in it. Yeah, because it's guided by the one who taught us to pray.

To care for their pastors, Sauls encouraged congregation members to realize how important the ministry of presence is.

Showing up is powerful, he said. Just people showing up is a way to communicate, you are not alone. We're with you in this.

Second, if a pastor does have the courage to self disclose and be vulnerable, Sauls said to consider it a privilege, not a burden.

Your pastor is not going to choose everybody; you've actually been chosen in the same way that Christ has chosen the 12 [disciples], the pastor said. Consider it an honor when your pastor also needs shepherding and care, and then give it.

We dont need to be fixed by our congregants, he clarified. But what we do need from our people is, I see you, I know your job is to see me. I volunteer to see you.

Pastors need to be found, he said, later adding: It is not good to be alone.

Statistics show that 50% of pastors feel unable to meet the needs of the job; 90% feel inadequately trained to deal with ministry demands; 45.5% of pastors say they have experienced depression or burnout to the extent that they needed to take a leave of absence from ministry; and 70% of pastors do not have someone they consider a close friend.

For the session on mental health, Sauls was joined by Dr. Curt Thompson, a psychiatrist, speaker and author, along with speaker Rebekah Lyons.

Lyons urged those struggling to go to someone and risk vulnerability, but stressed that real vulnerability will cost you something.

Thompson said that every individual has the need to be seen, soothed, and safe, and these things require the presence of another human being. Churches, he said, must have structures in place to care for the mental and emotional health of their pastors.

My hope, as we come out of this time of COVID, is that we discover ... that pastors need to be cared for, he said.

We can't give what we don't have, Thompson charged. And I would hope that within the next six to nine months, we can have a fresh new way of thinking about how are we going to systematically intentionally take care of pastors, so that the church members don't have to.
2 girls rescued 9 years after Boko Haram abducted Chibok schoolgirls

After more than nine years of captivity, two Chibok schoolgirls have been rescued, according to Nigerian military officials. Hauwa Maltha and Esther Marcus, now both 26, were among the 276 girls abducted by Boko Haram in April 2014. The terrorist group had forced the two into marriage with its fighters.

Major General Ibrahim Ali, leader of the Nigerian military operation combating the countrys northeastern insurgency, has told reporters that Nigerian soldiers rescued the two women and reunited them with their families.

Maltha, who was eight months pregnant when she was rescued, told Daily Trust she gave birth to a healthy baby boy on April 28.

While in captivity, Maltha and Marcus were each forced into marriage with three different extremists as their husbands were killed in clashes with the military.

The majority of the rescued girls and their families have shared accounts of them being forced into marriages and losing hope of ever escaping their captors.

Ali said Marcus was forced to marry a man named Garba, also known as Garus, a Boko Haram fighter who was killed during a troop's offensive operations on terrorists enclaves.

She was later married off to another insurgent, Abba, in the Ukuba terrorist enclaves in Sambisa forest until her rescue by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, he was quoted as saying. Since their rescue, they have undergone medical examination along with their babies and are adequately resuscitated and will be handed over to the Borno State government for further administration.

Of the Chibok schoolgirls who were abducted in 2014, nearly 100 remain missing, according to The Guardian. Chibok is a Local Government Area of Borno State.

The 2014 incident marked a significant escalation in Boko Harams ongoing persecution of Christian communities within the region. The group has killed tens of thousands of Christians in Nigeria and displaced millions more in its quest to eliminate Western influence and impose strict Islamic Sharia law.

Boko Haram specifically targets individuals who do not adhere to their radical interpretation of Islam, including religious minorities and Muslims they deem insufficiently observant.

Dede Laugesen, the executive director of Save the Persecuted Christians, told The Christian Post in a previous interview that terrorists often kidnap boys and brainwash them to become jihadis.

Boko Haram's influence has grown since 2014, with most of its members now operating as a brutal faction backed by the Islamic State group. The United Nations Development Programme estimates that over 35,000 people have been killed and more than 2 million displaced by extremist violence in Nigeria.

Many Nigerians have raised concerns about what they perceive as the governments inaction in holding terrorists accountable for the rising number of attacks and kidnappings.

Nigerias Christians are often the target of extremist and terrorist groups. Christian human rights organizations have warned that the violence in Nigeria has risen to the level of genocide.
Abortion Activists Demand Change, Mother's Day Trigger Warnings, SBC Rejects Candidate, Pastor Resigns Over Sex Beliefs

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Top headlines for Saturday, May 6, 2023

We delve into the latest developments on the abortion debate in the United States, one year after a leaked draft Supreme Court decision on the issue set off a political earthquake. States have taken different approaches to abortion policy, with advocates on both sides calling for additional reforms in American politics. We also discuss how some of America's biggest companies are approaching Mother's Day by sending out trigger warnings and featuring pro-LGBT messaging on their websites. Then, we turn to a case where a federal agency has warned a Catholic hospital that it could lose its ability to serve vulnerable populations if it doesn't extinguish its sanctuary candle, which is a Catholic tradition. Finally, we explore the controversy surrounding Joshua Butler, an evangelical Christian pastor and author who resigned from the leadership of his Arizona megachurch after publishing a book titled Beautiful Union, in which he controversially claimed that sex is an icon of Christ and the church.

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Top headlines for Saturday, May 6, 2023

We delve into the latest developments on the abortion debate in the United States, one year after a leaked draft Supreme Court decision on the issue set off a political earthquake. States have taken different approaches to abortion policy, with advocates on both sides calling for additional reforms in American politics. We also discuss how some of America's biggest companies are approaching Mother's Day by sending out trigger warnings and featuring pro-LGBT messaging on their websites. Then, we turn to a case where a federal agency has warned a Catholic hospital that it could lose its ability to serve vulnerable populations if it doesn't extinguish its sanctuary candle, which is a Catholic tradition. Finally, we explore the controversy surrounding Joshua Butler, an evangelical Christian pastor and author who resigned from the leadership of his Arizona megachurch after publishing a book titled Beautiful Union, in which he controversially claimed that sex is an icon of Christ and the church.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, left, is accompanied by Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol after a press meeting in Seoul, May 7. Yonhap



Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was set to meet with chiefs of major Korean business associations Monday and discuss ways to expand bilateral cooperation in economic fields, such as global supply chains, according to industry sources.



The closed-door session comes on the second day of Kishida's two-day working visit to Korea, a highly symbolic trip that marks a start for the restoration of bilateral relations long frayed over issues rooted in Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.



On Sunday, Kishida and President Yoon Suk Yeol held a summit, the second of its kind in less than two months, amid a warming in bilateral ties after Seoul proposed compensating Korean forced labor victims without contributions from accused Japanese companies.



At Monday's meeting, Kishida will meet the heads of six business lobbies, including SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, who chairs the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), according to the sources familiar with the matter.






Childlike faith vs. childish thinking

Its pretty common for atheists to accuse Christians of being infantile in our thinking. For example, Richard Dawkins once said that we have our, Bronze Age myths, medieval superstitions and childish wishful thinking.

To hammer home their point that Christianity is not a mature, thinking persons worldview, secularists will occasionally throw out Jesus admonitions about the need to be like a child: Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matt 18:3).

Needless to say, its a big swing-and-a-miss to think what Jesus means by that statement is that we empty our heads of logic, reason, and critical thinking in order to be His disciples. But what does He mean?

The Bibles prescription for right thinking

Lets be clear about one thing: Scripture isnt shy about telling us that we need to be mature in our thought life:

When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things (1 Cor. 13:11).

Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; yet in evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature (1 Cor. 14:20).

 we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ (Eph 4:14-15).

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent (Phil. 1:9-10).

This being the case, its very common for believers to come to the faith or remain in it because of critical thinking.

As an example, someone recently wrote apologist William Lane Craig saying, From the bottom of my heart, Dr. Craig, thank you for your ministry and your ongoing example. Some years ago your published doctoral thesis, 'Assessing the New Testament Evidence for the Historicity of the Resurrection of Jesus' was, I believe, the greatest factor in preserving me as a Christ-follower in the midst of a critically oriented curriculum in my secular divinity degree.

Yep, you read that right  a very sophisticated, long, technical doctoral dissertation kept that guy in the faith. It happens more than you might think (OK, maybe not with reading dissertations).

This type of thing is why its important to understand the difference between a childlike faith and childish thinking. The latter is anathema in Christianity whereas the former is a requisite.

Faith like a child

The key to understanding what Jesus means about us coming to Him as children is found in the very next verse of Matt 18: Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven (vs. 4).

Commentators Hendriksen and Kistemaker provide a good synopsis of what this signifies: Spiritually, therefore, babes are those who humbly confess their own nothingness, their emptiness and helplessness, and who, being thoroughly aware of their absolute dependence upon the might and mercy of the heavenly Father, betake themselves to him, trusting that from him they will receive whatever is necessary so that, enjoying salvation full and free, they may live lives of gratitude to his glory.

This type of humility may be why Jesus, speaking of the arrogant religious leaders, said earlier in Matthew: I praise You, Father, Lord of Heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants (Matt. 11:25).

All these things point to the fact that we should possess a trusting faith and humbleness towards God yet be adult in our thinking.

Even so, its important to understand that critical and evidence-based reasoning alone isnt enough to get a person over the finish line to having a childlike faith. There are brilliant people who believe in God and brilliant people who reject the idea of Him.

So why do some believe, and others dont?

A. W. Tozer provides a good, succinct answer: The faith that saves is not a conclusion drawn from evidence; it is a moral thing, a thing of the spirit, a supernatural infusion of confidence in Jesus Christ, a very gift of God.

In other words, some are gifted with a will to believe while others retain their will to reject. This isnt surprising as people act contrary to evidence all the time.

This brings us to the simple conclusion penned by evangelist Ken Boa: There are essentially two kinds of people: those who seek to know God and those who seek to avoid Him  and both will succeed in the end.
AI is exciting  and an ethical minefield: 4 essential reads on the risks and concerns about this technology

Who's in control?

If you're like me, you've spent a lot of time over the past few months trying to figure out what this AI thing is all about. Large-language models, generative AI, algorithmic bias  it's a lot for the less tech-savvy of us to sort out, trying to make sense of the myriad headlines about artificial intelligence swirling about.

But understanding how AI works is just part of the dilemma. As a society, we're also confronting concerns about its social, psychological and ethical effects. Here we spotlight articles about the deeper questions the AI revolution raises about bias and inequality, the learning process, its impact on jobs, and even the artistic process.

1. Ethical debt

When a company rushes software to market, it often accrues "technical debt": the cost of having to fix bugs after a programme is released, instead of ironing them out beforehand.

There are examples of this in AI as companies race ahead to compete with each other. More alarming, though, is "ethical debt," when development teams haven't considered possible social or ethical harms  how AI could replace human jobs, for example, or when algorithms end up reinforcing biases.

Casey Fiesler, a technology ethics expert at the University of Colorado Boulder, wrote that she's "a technology optimist who thinks and prepares like a pessimist": someone who puts in time speculating about what might go wrong.

That kind of speculation is an especially useful skill for technologists trying to envision consequences that might not impact them, Fiesler explained, but that could hurt "marginalized groups that are underrepresented" in tech fields. When it comes to ethical debt, she noted, "the people who incur it are rarely the people who pay for it in the end."

2. Is anybody there?

AI programs' abilities can give the impression that they are sentient, but they're not, explained Nir Eisikovits, director of the Applied Ethics Center at the University of Massachusetts Boston. "ChatGPT and similar technologies are sophisticated sentence completion applications  nothing more, nothing less," he wrote.

But saying AI isn't conscious doesn't mean it's harmless.

"To me," Eisikovits explained, "the pressing question is not whether machines are sentient but why it is so easy for us to imagine that they are."

Humans easily project human features onto just about anything, including technology. That tendency to anthropomorphize "points to real risks of psychological entanglement with technology," according to Eisikovits, who studies AI's impact on how people understand themselves.

Considering how many people talk to their pets and cars, it shouldn't be a surprise that chatbots can come to mean so much to people who engage with them. The next steps, though, are "strong guardrails" to prevent programmes from taking advantage of that emotional connection.

3. Putting pen to paper

From the start, ChatGPT fuelled parents' and teachers' fears about cheating. How could educators  or college admissions officers, for that matter  figure out if an essay was written by a human or a chatbot?

But AI sparks more fundamental questions about writing, according to Naomi Baron, an American University linguist who studies technology's effects on language. AI's potential threat to writing isn't just about honesty, but about the ability to think itself.

Baron pointed to novelist Flannery O'Connor's remark that "I write because I don't know what I think until I read what I say." In other words, writing isn't just a way to put your thoughts on paper; it's a process to help sort out your thoughts in the first place.

AI text generation can be a handy tool, Baron wrote, but "there's a slippery slope between collaboration and encroachment." As we wade into a world of more and more AI, it's key to remember that "crafting written work should be a journey, not just a destination."

4. The value of art

Generative AI programs don't just produce text, but also complex images  which have even captured a prize or two. In theory, allowing AI to do nitty-gritty execution might free up human artists' big-picture creativity.

Not so fast, said Eisikovits and Alec Stubbs, who is also a philosopher at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The finished object viewers appreciate is just part of the process we call "art." For creator and appreciator alike, what makes art valuable is "the work of making something real and working through its details": the struggle to turn ideas into something we can see.

Molly Jackson is Religion and Ethics Editor at The Conversation. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.
The importance of discipleship in a world that is hostile to Christ

Writing in Prophecy Today, Kathryn Price presciently states: 'A battle is looming, indeed is already under way, as Christians are discovering that they are not just in the minority, but frequently actively under increasing attack for holding traditional biblical beliefs. Many . . . believe that this is set to intensify  with the country facing continued judgement for our decades of turning away from Him.'

Christians in the West are not being persecuted. To pretend we are is to insult our brothers and sisters elsewhere who face very real dangers for the faith. However, it is increasingly clear that the testing of our faith will escalate in intensity, and some will not come through with their faith unimpaired.

Discipleship

If we are to face the dangers of increasing hostility toward those who hold biblical beliefs in the midst of a deteriorating culture and society, we will have to dig deep. The key to resisting in the future is to remember that Jesus does not want admirers: he wants disciples.

Disciples do not have all the answers, but they have a glimpse of the right path. They do not try to impose that upon others. By speech and by life, disciples attempt to show a better way. By openly walking along that right path in their own lives they invite others to their position.

The church today has too often has stressed making a friend of Jesus rather than becoming disciples of Christ. The admirer respects and listens to Jesus, yet lives in conformity to a world which rejects him. The disciple attempts to be like the one he follows and accepts that there is an inevitable cost to discipleship and is prepared to pay the price. As Bonhoeffer reminded us, 'The cross is not the terrible end of a pious happy life. Instead, it stands at the beginning of community with Jesus Christ.'

Fellowship

As disciples face an increasingly hostile society and the price it exacts, it is important that we develop fellowship with other disciples.

Fellowship is more than a cup of tea after the service: that is friendship. Friendships are important and should be cultivated, but there is a world of difference between friendship and fellowship. We can have friendships and relationships with unbelievers, but Christian fellowship occurs only within the body of Christ.

Our fellowship with other Christians is based on our fellowship with God and develops with our discipleship. 'If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin' (1 John 1:67).

Fellowship is best when it is local, but we cannot wait for the best. Luther, a lone monk in an out-of-the-way minor university, used the newfangled printing press and changed the world. We have even more potent tools of communication today which can unite us with fellow disciples across the world, all serving the same Lord, all fighting the same fight, all able to bring our own contribution. We can develop meaningful and effective fellowships where we search the Scriptures together, pray for, affirm and encourage each other.

It is a simple matter to support organisations involved in the resistance, to become informed about their work, pray for them and contribute where possible. Bodies such as the Christian Institute and Care do much of the heavy lifting for us. If we want to know about a particular subject, the initial research has already been done.

Contributing to the comments section of a blog or website brings us into contact with other Christians, and we can build networks where we share concerns and insights. Carefully handled, we have available the tools to bring us into supportive contact with Christians nationally and internationally.

Secularists

When we have a secure base within the fellowship we can reach out to unbelievers, to counter false beliefs and also to join with them. We do not shelter in our Christian bubble, close the door and lock it, condemning those outside to darkness.

Secularists can be valued companions in the struggle. Some like Jordan Peterson know and are influenced by the Bible; others give no indication of knowing God but nevertheless they are in, and usually leading, the resistance to the cultural takeover of Western civilisation. We can learn a great deal from their cultural and political analysis. We can influence them and share with them the reasons why we reject the assault on our culture and our vision of a better future. Importantly we should also hold them in our prayers.

A vision for the future

Just being against what is going on today engenders a purely negative mindset which closes us in to a small group trembling and afraid of the outside. We reject much of what is going on in society today, but was the past so perfect? We cannot afford to look back with rose-tinted spectacles and relax in a warm bath of nostalgia. There was much to be admired in the past, and much to be regretted.

Campbell Campbell-Jack is a retired Church of Scotland minister. He blogs at A Grain of Sand.
The Walt Disney Co. on Monday expanded its lawsuit alleging retaliation by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to include new regulations passed by the state's legislature that allow officials to nullify development agreements brokered by the entertainment giant.

DeSantis (R), who is weighing a presidential run, signed legislation Friday giving the special board that oversees government services in and around the Walt Disney World Resort the authority to void existing contracts.

The law disallows any Florida special district from complying with a development agreement executed within three months of any separate law modifying how board members are selected.

Disney, in an amended legal complaint, said the legislation signed Friday was drafted to solely target its development.

"Governor DeSantis and his allies have no apparent intent to moderate their retaliatory campaign any time soon," Disney's complaint reads.

Disney's lawsuit, originally filed in late April, alleged that the governor was attempting to punish the company for its opposition to the Parental Rights in Education Act, which prohibits lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools through the third grade.

After Disney denounced the legislation - which critics dubbed the "don't say gay" bill - the Florida legislature at DeSantis's urging passed a measure to seize control of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, formerly called the Reedy Creek Improvement District.

The 39-square-mile jurisdiction that includes Disney World has special privileges that allow it to maintain its own utilities, infrastructure and public safety services and impose its own taxes.

DeSantis and the state legislature abolished that district - whose commissioners were senior Disney executives - and established a new one with commissioners appointed by the governor.

But before the outgoing commission was dissolved, officials signed a new contract with Disney that restricts the new board's ability to regulate the region. It also included a clause that extends the agreement until 21 years after the death of the last survivor of the descendants of King Charles III of England.

In the amended complaint, Disney - which is Florida's largest employer and reported $82.7 billion in 2022 revenue - invoked statements DeSantis made to reporters on Friday about new law.

"This all started, of course, with our parents' rights bill," the governor said.

DeSantis, who has still yet to officially declare his candidacy for the 2024 presidential race, trails former president Donald Trump for the Republican nomination by 29.1 percentage points, according to a recent ABC News-Washington Post poll.
Facebook says it is not dead. Facebook also wants you to know that it is not just for old people, as young people have been saying for years.

Now, with the biggest thorn in its side  TikTok  facing heightened government scrutiny amid growing tensions between the U.S. and China, Facebook could, perhaps, position itself as a viable, domestic-bred alternative.

There's just one problem: young adults like Devin Walsh have moved on.

I dont even remember the last time I logged in. It must have been years ago, said Walsh, 24, who lives in Manhattan and works in public relations.

Instead, she checks Instagram, which is also owned by Facebook parent company Meta, about five or six times a day. Then there's TikTok, of course, where she spends about an hour each day scrolling, letting the algorithm find things I didn't even know I was interested in.

Walsh can't imagine a world in which Facebook, which she joined when she was in 6th grade, becomes a regular part of her life again.

"It's the branding, right? When I think of Facebook, I think ugh, like cheugy, older people, like parents posting pictures of their kids, random status updates and also people fighting about political issues, Walsh said, using the Gen Z term for things that are definitely not cool.

The once-cool social media platform born before the iPhone is approaching two decades in existence. For those who came of age around the time Mark Zuckerberg launched thefacebook.com from his Harvard dorm room in 2004, it's been inextricably baked into daily life  even if it's somewhat faded into the background over the years.

Facebook faces a particularly odd challenge. Today, 3 billion people check it each month. Thats more than a third of the worlds population. And 2 billion log in every day. Yet it still finds itself in a battle for relevancy, and its future, after two decades of existence.

For younger generations  those who signed up in middle school, or those who are now in middle school, it's decidedly not the place to be. Without this trend-setting demographic, Facebook, still the main source of revenue for parent company Meta, risks fading into the background  utilitarian but boring, like email.

It wasn't always like this. For nearly a decade, Facebook was the place to be, the cultural touchstone, the thing constantly referenced in daily conversations and late-night TV, its founding even the subject of a Hollywood movie. Rival MySpace, which launched only a year earlier, quickly became outdated as the cool kids flocked to Facebook. It didn't help MySpace's fate that it was sold to stodgy old News Corp. in 2005.

It was this weird combination...no one knew how technology worked, but in order to have a MySpace, we all needed to become mini coders. It was so stressful. said Moira Gaynor, 28. Maybe thats even why Facebook took off. Because compared to MySpace it was this beautiful, integrated, wonderful engagement area that we didnt have before and we really craved after struggling with MySpace for so long.

Positioning himself a visionary, Zuckerberg refused to sell Facebook and pushed his company through the mobile revolution. While some rivals emerged  remember Orkut?  they generally petered out as Facebook soared, seemingly unstoppable despite scandals over user privacy and a failure to address hate speech and misinformation adequately. It reached a billion daily users in 2015.

Debra Aho Williamson, an analyst with Insider Intelligence who's followed Facebook since its early days, notes that the site's younger users have been dwindling but doesn't see Facebook going anywhere, at least not any time soon.

The fact that we are talking about Facebook being 20 years old, I think that is a testament of what Mark developed when he was in college. It's pretty incredible, she said. It is still a very powerful platform around the world.

AOL was once powerful too, but its user base has aged and now an aol.com email address is little more than a punchline in a joke about technologically illiterate people of a certain age.

Tom Alison, who serves as the head of Facebook (Zuckerberg's title is now Meta CEO), sounded optimistic when he outlined the platform's plans to lure in young adults in an interview with The Associated Press.

We used to have a team at Facebook that was focused on younger cohorts, or maybe there was a project or two that was dedicated to coming up with new ideas, Alison said. And about two years ago we said no  our entire product line needs to change and evolve and adapt to the needs of the young adults.

He calls it the era of social discovery."

Its very much motivated by what we see the next generation wanting from social media. The simple way that I like to describe it is we want Facebook to be the place where you can connect with the people you know, the people you want to know and the people that you should know, Alison said.

Artificial intelligence is central to this plan. Just as TikTok uses its AI and algorithm to show people videos they didn't know they wanted to see Facebook is hoping to harness its powerful technology to win back the hearts and eyeballs of young adults. Reels, the TikTok-like videos Facebook and Instagram users are bombarded with when they log into both apps, are also key. And, of course, private messaging.

What we are seeing is more people wanting to share reels, discuss reels, and were starting to integrate messaging features back into the app to again allow Facebook to be a place where not only do you discover great things that are relevant to you, but you share and you discuss those with people, Alison said.

Facebook has consistently declined to disclose user demographics, which would shed some light on how it is faring among young adults. But outside researchers say their numbers are declining. The same is true for teenagers  although Facebook seems to have stepped back from actively recruiting teens amid concerns about social medias effects on their mental health.

Young people often shape the future of communication. I mean, thats basically how Facebook took off  young people gravitated toward it. And we we see that happening with pretty much every social platform that has come on the scene since Facebook, said Williamson. This year, Insider estimates that about half of TikToks users are between the ages of 12 and 24.

Williamson doesn't see this trend reversing, but notes that Insider's estimates only go as far as 2026. There's a decline, but it's slow. That year, the research firm expects about 28% of U.S. Facebook's users to be between 18 and 34 years old, compared with nearly 46% for TikTok and 42% for Instagram. The numbers are more stark for teens aged 12-17.

I think the best thing they could do is get away from being a social platform. Like theyve lost that. But hey, if they want to become the new Yellow Pages, why not? said Gaynor, who lives in San Diego, California and works in government. I really like Marketplace. I recently just moved, so that was where I got most of my furniture.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Many investors worry about the future of Berkshire Hathaway after its legendary CEO Warren Buffett is gone, but most of the conglomerate's companies have already made the transition to reporting to the man who will eventually replace the 92-year-old.

Buffett himself and executives at Berkshire Hathaway companies like See's Candy and Dairy Queen say they don't have any qualms about Vice Chairman Greg Abel's ability to lead the conglomerate. Abel already oversees all of Berkshire's noninsurance businesses. So the main parts of the CEO job he's not already doing are overseeing the insurance side of the company and deciding how to invest Berkshire's nearly $131 billion in cash.

Buffett reassured investors at Saturday's annual meeting that he believes Abel is the right man for the job and that he does know how to allocate capital following the same model Buffett uses even if he's not making those spending decisions now. Plus, Abel did help oversee a number of large acquisitions at Berkshire's utility unit that he led from 2008 until 2018, including the purchases of NV Energy in Nevada for $5.6 billion and Canadian power transmission firm Altalink for nearly $3 billion.

I dont have a second choice. I mean it is that tough to find. But I have also seen Greg in action and I feel 100% comfortable," Buffett said. Greg is inheriting a good business and I think hell make it better.

Buffett confirmed that Abel will eventually take over for him two years ago after his partner Charlie Munger let it slip at that year's annual meeting although Buffett has no plans to retire.

Plus, Berkshire does have two other investment managers and another vice chairman who oversees all the insurance business, including Geico and several large reinsurers, in place although Buffett said it will be up to Abel to decide how much to lean on those folks after he becomes CEO.

Gonzaga University business professor Todd Finkle, who just wrote a new book titled Warren Buffett: Investor and Entrepreneur, said Berkshire shareholders should trust Buffett's judgement about his successor because he has been thinking about his successor for years.

To underscore how long Buffett has been thinking about this, Berkshire showed video clips Saturday of Buffett getting questions about his successor for at least the last 29 years. It probably came up before then too, but Berkshire doesn't have video of the meeting before 1994.

"Hes not going to screw this up, Finkle said at the Gabelli Funds Value Investing Conference on the eve of the annual meeting in Omaha.

CFRA Research analyst Cathy Seifert agreed: The succession issue has been put to rest.

Berkshire managers who have been reporting to Abel instead of Buffett since 2018 said they're confident and impressed with his ability to oversee dozens of different businesses as varied as Israeli tookmaker Iscar Metalworking, industrial conglomerate Marmon Holdings, jeweler Helzberg Diamonds and the NetJets private jet service.

Dairy Queen CEO Troy Bader said that whenever he has any issues related to the brand, Abel is always available, and he reaches out if he ever has any questions. Bader said he's not sure where Abel gets all the time in the day, but his access has been terrific.

Greg is a very quick study. He understands the businesses quickly and hes going to challenge us, as you would expect any really good manager to do, he said.

Buffett is clearly a tough act to follow after leading Berkshire for 58 years and earning a reputation as one of the best investors ever, but Bader said there is a lot of talent among Berkshire's other managers.

Obviously Berkshire has never known anything other than Warren and Charlie very well involved, Bader said. But having had the privilege of getting to know so many of the other leaders, Berkshires in very capable hands, and thats a credit again to Warren.

Buffett and Abel joked during a CNBC interview earlier this spring that Abel might even be able to get more out of Berkshire's businesses because he doesn't the history of having acquired them and may ask tougher questions as he gets to know the companies better. But just like Buffett, Abel largely lets the businesses run themselves, talking strategy with them periodically and offering advice whenever they need it. But the CEOs of each Berkshire business make the day-to-day decision except that they'll run any big spending decisions past headquarters.

Brooks Running CEO Jim Weber said Abel approaches the businesses with the background of an operator who helped build the Berkshire Hathaway Energy utility unit as opposed to Buffett's background as an investor. Abel may even direct a few more pointed questions about Brooks' competition to Weber because unlike Buffett, Abel is a runner who wants to try on the shoes not just talk numbers. But he still provides similar oversight.

We definitely see hes got hes got the brain of an operator. And so in that sense, there is a different slate of questions that are, I think, more in tune with business topics and issues, Weber said. But at the end of the day, you know, the relationship is, is still kind of working the same for us.

See's Candy Pat Egan said shareholders should know that Abel is remarkable in his own right.

Gregs singularly talented. Hes an amazing guy, Egan said. So in terms of leadership, we have no, no concerns whatsoever.
"The delicatessen is my life" says Ziggy Gruber as he walks through a gallery at the Holocaust Museum Houston on a Thursday afternoon in May. Most Houstonians know Gruber as the co-founder of Houston-based deli Kenny & Ziggy's, but on this day he's playing unofficial tour guide, taking a small group through the museum's newest exhibition.

Called I'll Have What She's Having, the exhibit examines the cultural and historical significance of the Jewish deli, a uniquely American phenomenon born out of immigration, necessity, the industrial revolution, and dozens of other factors. The focus is on how Jews in America, from New York to Los Angeles to even Houston, imported traditions and built community around a common denominator: food.

The exhibit originated at the Skirball Cultural Center in LA and has also traveled to the New York Historical Society. But for its Houston residency, additional archives and context related to delis on the Third Coast have been provided by Gruber, who has been collecting deli-related ephemera for much of his life. "I have probably the largest deli menu collection in the US," says Gruber, whose grandfather founded the first Jewish deli on New York City's Broadway in 1927.

Attendees can expect a chronological look at the migration of Jews into America, starting in the late 19th century, towards the end of the Industrial Revolution. Immigrants were arriving in New York from Central and Eastern Europe, often bringing with them culinary traditions borne out of a lack of abundance. In America, those foodspreserved fish, kugel, babkawere transformed by industry and agriculture. Cattle, for example, were more plentiful in the United States, and rendering them was much more efficient thanks to modern butchering equipment. That technology led to a rise in the popularity of pastrami, corned beef, and other preserved meat products, according to Skirball curator Cate Thurston.

Gary Fountain/Contributor

The idea for the exhibit came to Thurston and Laura Mart, co-curator at the Skirball, one day while they were sharing a meal. They were discussing how to use the museum's collection in new and interesting ways, and the idea arose to focus on Jewish-American foodways. Together with food historian Lara Rabinovitch, the team spent two years visiting delis across the United States. That initial lunchtime brainstorming session, along with the infamous deli scene in the film When Harry Met Sally, provided the inspiration for the exhibit's name. (The movie scene was shot at Katz's Deli in Manhattan.)

As delis spread from New York to other parts of the United States, they begin to reflect the communities they were in, Thurston says. Most delis are situated in city centers, and are open late at night and early in the morning, making them a haven for night owls and early risers. The food, often easy to eat on the go, reflects that.

Jack Lue

Though much of the exhibit focuses on ephemerapostcards, paper menus, matchbooksthere are other items that provide historical significance as well. One is a large cigarette machine from Canter's Deli in Los Angeles, a 24-hour restaurant also known for its raucous bar, which has hosted bands like Guns & Roses and Frank Zappa.

There's a bittersweet irony to the exhibit as well. "The Jewish deli has never gotten more press," Thurston says, pointing to films like Everything Everywhere All at Once's everything bagel storyline and the Amazon show The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. "It's zeitgeisty." And yet, Jewish delis themselves are in a decline. Thurston says there are many reasons for that, ranging from assimilation to COVID. In the 1920s, there were around 5,000 Jewish delis in New York City alone. Before the pandemic, that number had dwindled to about 140 in the entire country. As of today, it's down to roughly 105 in all of North America (including Canada).

"There's an urgency to remembrance," she says, citing the rise of anti-Semitisim in America and elsewhere. She also points to Gruber's contributions to the museum, which make up roughly 1/3 of the overall exhibit. "The reason why Ziggy's collection is so important is these are not the things people thought to save at the time." And because those items are so fragile, she says, the exhibit in Houston may be the only chance for viewers to see them.

"Delis are a reflection of people and place", says Alex Hampton, changing exhibitions manager at the museum. He helped situate the Skirball's original exhibit in the context of other foodways in Houston, like Viet-Cajun cuisine, Southern food, and barbecue, all of which came from different survivor communities. He's placed those artifacts next to iconic posters from Levys rye bread "You Don't Have to be Jewish" ad campaign, an invitation for all to enjoy Jewish-American cuisine.

Like those other cuisines, "these delis are a story of hope," in which people came to America and were able to make do with the skills they had. "They were able to achieve the American dream."

Ill Have What Shes Having: The Jewish Deli runs through August 13 at the Houston Holocaust Museum. Special events are being planned for later in the summer including a pickle-making workshop and a film screening of Deli Man, a documentary about Jewish delis featuring Jerry Stiller, Larry King, and Ziggy Gruber.
FAIRFIELD  The same night a controversial animal hospital and dog hotel was denied, a chain of veterinary hospitals was granted approval to open a location on Black Rock Turnpike.

Bond Animal Hospital's zoning compliance application to open a location at 1968 Black Rock Turnpike was approved at a recent Town Plan and Zoning Commission meeting. The location, which used to house a Boston Market, shares a building with a CVS Pharmacy.

At the meeting, Town Planner Jim Wendt noted the proposal did not include plans for overnight boarding or day care, which was the main point of contention for residents and business owners opposed to the now-denied plans to build a Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel on Post Road.

"There's no kenneling," he said. "Actually, the parking demand is fewer spaces for this use than the previous restaurant use."

Wendt said Bond could technically keep an animal overnight if it had a medical procedure and needed to stay as a result of that. The vote to approve the plans for the veterinary hospital was unanimous.

In a statement, Lauren Heuser, the director of real estate at Bond Vet, said the company has been closely monitoring the markets in southern Connecticut and Westchester County for expansion opportunities. Notably, she said Bond is also opening a location in Westport on May 10th and is also going to add a location in Rye Brook, New York.

"Our commitment to convenience as a primary and urgent care provider for pets underscores the importance of location selection," she said. "Fairfield stood out as an appealing market due to its natural expansion prospects and high percentage of pet ownership."

Heuser said the company is excited to be entering the market at the Fairway Plaza. She said the location offers good visibility and accessibility along Black Rock Turnpike as well as convenient access for customers going about their daily needs, adding it would enable pet owners to combine their pet care and errands.

"Construction will begin later this year, targeting an early 2024 opening. Visit our Westport location at 1 Main Street in the meantime to experience what Bond Vet is all about," she said.

According to the proposal submitted to the town, the Fairfield location will have 3,100 square feet of the building it shares with the pharmacy. It said Bond will use 13 of the parking spaces in the lot, as opposed to the previous 25.

In its proposed use statement in the application, Bond described itself as a "first class, high quality non-boarding veterinary care provider for the treatment of cats and dogs." It said it also sells the things that come with being a pet care provider, such as pet food, treats and toys.

The proposal said Bond has 32 locations across the United States, with most of them in New York City. While hours of operation vary by location, it said the location will open between 8 and 10 a.m. and close between 6 and 8 p.m., noting it operates five to seven days a week.

The animal hospital provides both primary and urgent care,the proposal said, both walk-in and by appointment. It said the business does not provide grooming, daycare or overnight boarding.

According to the proposal, Bond expects to see about 30 clients a day, adding the chain has seen more than 120,000 patients since June of 2019.
ALLEN, Texas - The gunman who opened fire on an outlet mall in a Dallas suburb on Saturday, killing at least eight people, had an apparent fascination with white supremacist or neo-Nazi beliefs that are now being examined by investigators as a possible motive for the attack, people familiar with the investigation said Sunday.

Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old Dallas resident, had multiple weapons on him and five additional guns in his car nearby, said people familiar with the investigation who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing probe.

Authorities have not released a motive, but a patch on his chest said "RWDS," an acronym that stands for Right Wing Death Squad, according to people familiar with the investigation. The phrase is popular among right-wing extremists, neo-Nazis and white supremacists, they said, and while there is still a great deal of evidence to analyze, and authorities have not reached any conclusions yet, investigators are approaching the shooting as a possible hate crime.

Witnesses said the gunman's tactical vest was also packed with ammunition clips, indicating just how much carnage he hoped to inflict at one of the most common places for Americans to gather on the weekends - a shopping mall. Panicked video from the scene showed adults running as fast as they could to get away from the crack of rifle fire, their shopping bags flapping around them as they sprinted across the parking lot. One young boy in a red t-shirt ran away while screaming "run," a look of terror on his face.

The mall shooting marks the second time in less than 10 days that Texas has had a mass killing in which a gunman trained a powerful rifle on people. The staccato bursts of gun violence in America are increasing, according to some groups that track shootings, while public pleas by officials including President Biden to stem the bloodshed appear to have little effect.

The shooter also injured at least seven people before a police officer who happened to be at the mall on an unrelated call fatally shot him at about 3:30 p.m., Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey said Saturday. Authorities believe that the gunman acted alone and that there were no further threats, Harvey said during a news briefing.

At least one of the victims was a child, according to officials and witness accounts. A person wearing a security guard uniform was among the dead, according to several witnesses, but it was unclear whether the person was on duty at the time. A witness described finding a young boy alive under the corpse of his mother, who died protecting him.

The assailant was staying in a Dallas-area hotel at the time of the shooting, according to the people familiar with the investigation. Because the gunman is dead, a major focus of investigators is whether anyone knew what he planned to do or helped him in planning it. The gunman's parents have been cooperating with authorities, these people said. Agents with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting with the investigation, according to officials.

Six victims were found dead at the scene, and nine people who had been injured were taken to hospitals by the local fire department, Allen Fire Chief Jon Boyd said Saturday. Two of them died at the hospital, police said.

The victims being treated at Medical City Healthcare trauma facilities ranged from 5 to 61 years old, said Kathleen Beathard, a spokeswoman for the hospital system. At least three people remained in critical condition, according to an update Sunday. One patient was transferred to Medical City Children's Hospital and was in fair condition, Medical City Healthcare said.

Sherry Tutt was shopping at Victoria's Secret on Saturday when she heard booming sounds. People started rushing into the store, she said, and someone yelled, "They're shooting!"

Tutt and her fiance hurried into a storage area with a few dozen other customers, hiding among boxes. She said panic spread when the group had trouble getting through to 911. One woman was crying.

After about an hour, police escorted the group out of the store, telling them that if they had kids, they should cover their eyes. As she passed Fatburger, Tutt glimpsed two bodies - a sight she described as "something I will never unsee." Told it was now safe to leave, scores of shoppers raised their arms in surrender as they walked past police officers.

All the stores were closed Sunday at the Allen outlet mall, and police blocked entrances to the center of the sprawling complex. The parking lot in the center of the mall was packed with cars, which shoppers and employees had not been allowed to retrieve by mid-Sunday. Later in the day, the FBI said authorities would be assisting shoppers to reclaim their vehicles until 9:30 p.m. Sunday night.

Biden ordered flags flown at half-staff through Thursday in recognition of the shooting victims. In a statement, he expressed condolences for the victims and called on Republican members of Congress to support a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, among other changes to gun laws.

"We need more action, faster to save lives," he said. "Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables."

Aerial footage of the scene, about 25 miles northeast of Dallas, showed what appeared to be bodies underneath white sheets on the ground outside an H&M outlet, where much of the violence was concentrated.

Steven Spainhouer pulled up to the mall minutes after his son, an H&M employee, called and said a shooter was inside the store. Spainhouer, 63, who said he was an Army and law enforcement veteran, arrived to find people running on the freeway and the streets. Police and paramedics were not yet on the scene.

Spainhouer described trying to help people who were shot outside H&M. He started with a girl who was in a "praying position" in the bushes outside the store. "I felt for a pulse," recalled Spainhouer, who now works in risk management. "There was none. I pulled her head back. There was no face."

Helen Bennett said she and her daughter were in the HanesBrands store when the manager saw someone in the parking lot exiting a car with a weapon. Everyone inside locked themselves in a storeroom, where they hoped fervently that bullets would not fly through the walls. A mother rocked her baby to keep the child from crying.

"As soon as we got in the backroom, we heard the shots - BAM! BAM! BAM! BAM!," Bennett said.

Colin Palakiko, a 36-year-old cook, said he had gone to the mall to do some shopping for an upcoming vacation to Hawaii. He was in a Tory Burch shoe store with his mother when a girl ran in and said there was a shooter outside.

After taking shelter in the store for 45 minutes, the police led them outside in a single file. He heard a woman screaming frantically - she was saying another vehicle that was shot up was her boyfriend's.

"That was the most horrifying sound I ever heard," Palakiko said. There was a person Palakiko thought was a mall security guard on the ground in a white security uniform: He had been shot in the front of his body and was laying face down.

Deirdra Gordon, who was visiting from Arkansas, said she wept as police led her and others out of Banana Republic after the shooting. She and her husband, Bobby Gordon, said they saw several bodies, including a person in a security uniform and someone they thought was the shooter.

Nearby, a police officer helped a man with a leg wound exit a restaurant. The Gordons also saw bullet holes in store windows and the windshield of a gray sedan.

"It was just a beautiful Saturday," Deirdra Gordon said. "It was just nice, and then all of a sudden, no one wanted to believe that that's what was happening."

Sonia Ali, whose son was working at the mall during the shooting, told The Washington Post that many of her son's fellow high school students also work there. Ali's son was not physically harmed by the shooting. The school has emailed students, offering to help those experiencing trauma from the incident, she said.

On the suburban street where the gunman's parents live, several of their neighbors described him as a quiet person who didn't seem to court trouble. "He just seemed to be aloof, kind of disconnected. But he wasn't threatening," said Kevin Todd, who lives down the street.

One neighbor said she didn't know him well but he would often honk his horn and wave when he drove past. The Garcia family had lived on the street for many years and were well-liked, neighbors said, adding that the gunman moved out of his parents' home earlier this year.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton, all Republicans, were in Allen on Sunday afternoon for a memorial service at Cottonwood Creek Church. Earlier in the day, Abbott told "Fox News Sunday" that his priority in response to mass killings is to address mental health crises, rather than to tighten gun regulations. (Research shows that stricter gun laws could lessen the severity of mass killings and may decrease overall gun violence.)

"We've got to find a way in this country where we can once again reunite Americans as Americans and come together in one big family and in that regard, find ways to reduce violence in our country," Abbott said in the interview.

Last year, Texas had the most mass killings by gun of any state, with six. This year it has already had three.

Less than two weeks ago and 240 miles south, a man killed five of his neighbors after they asked him to stop shooting his AR-15 style rifle near their home in Cleveland, Texas. The politics of gun violence and gun control are still being debated in the state, which is about to mark the first anniversary of a mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that killed 19 children and two teachers.

In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded 4,613 firearms-related deaths in Texas. The state's annual death toll from guns has increased steadily since 2014, when it recorded 2,848 such deaths.

On Monday, Texas state Sen. Roland Gutierrez and fellow Democrats plan to meet in Austin with relatives of victims of last year's Uvalde school shooting to call for immediate action to address gun violence in Texas.

Democrats have proposed what he calls "commonsense gun safety measures," including a 30-day waiting period and increasing the age at which people can buy AR 15-style guns from 18 to 21, universal background checks, extreme risk protective orders, requiring safe gun storage and banning the type of expanding bullets used in Uvalde.

Gutierrez said it wasn't clear whether Republican Texas lawmakers would be moved to take action after the latest shooting. "I don't know. We'll find out tomorrow what the pulse is. My feeling is these people just want to pray their way out of this," he said.

Texas has moved in recent years to loosen restrictions on firearms under Abbott's leadership. In 2021, the state began allowing permitless carry so residents can carry handguns in public without a license. The state "does not specifically put restrictions on who can carry a long gun such as a rifle or shotgun," according to a Texas government website.

Rep. Keith Self, a Republican congressman whose district includes Allen, told The Post that debating politics wasn't appropriate in the aftermath of the shooting.

Instead of limiting gun rights, Self said local governments need to be free to better defend public spaces from armed criminals. He called proposals to restrict gun rights, such as raising the age at which people can purchase AR-15-style weapons, "a knee-jerk reaction that does not stop criminals."

Still, gun-control advocates called for a substantive response. Shannon Watts, founder of the advocacy group Moms Demand Action, lamented how such killings have become commonplace in the United States. She noted that she'd gone to school in the county where the latest incident took place.

"If you haven't been impacted yet by gun violence, God bless you. But sadly, it's coming - to your state, community, school," Watts said.

Mushtaq Abdullah, 38, said he walked past multiple bodies while exiting the mall Saturday. He was still anxious the next day. His car remained at the mall, and he had heard authorities were checking vehicles left there with bomb-sniffing dogs.

On Sunday morning when he took his family to brunch, he brought a gun for the first time.

- - -

Barrett, Iati, Shammas, Moyer and Javaid reported from Washington, and Pietsch and Masih reported from Seoul. The Washington Post's Molly Hennessy-Fiske in Houston; John D. Harden in Oakland, Calif.; Perry Stein, Alex Horton and Andrea Salcedo in Washington contributed to this report.
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Saturday's Beaumont City Council Ward I and Ward III races ended with the incumbents staying in their seats.

Ward I Council member Taylor Neild will be serving his third term on council, while Ward III Council member Audwin Samuel is entering his 17.

Neild came out with 74.7% of the votes, or 3,286 ballots for Ward I. Taher Quraishi received 25.3% of the votes, or 1,113 ballots.

For Ward III, Samuel won 55.2% of votes, or 1,434 ballots, Carlton Sharp received 23.83% of votes, or 619 ballots, and Geary Senigaur, Jr. got 20.98% of votes, or 545 ballots.

RELATED: Beaumont Mayoral candidates narrowly avoid runoff

Neild, a general contractor and CEO of H.B. Neild & Sons, Inc., was first elected in 2019 after going against then-Incumbent Virginia Jordan and Quraishi in the general election and Jordan in a runoff election.

"I appreciate the response that the community gave me," Neild said. "I look forward to serving for another term."

Neild said he is looking forward to continuing to make progress on the roads and water infrastructure. He also plans to continue to be "a big supporter" of the fire, police and EMS.

"I look forward to everybody on council getting sworn in (next week), so that we can all get back to work to continue to make Beaumont better," Neild said.

Quraishi, an engineer, builder and developer an administrator of Dowlen Urgent Care, said he tried his best during this year's election.

"The voters didn't respond to me for some reason," Quraishi said. "The voters should look at the qualifications of the candidate, not just because the candidate is from the community or ward. I was going to do good for Beaumont."

He said he would have fixed infrastructure and reduced crime in Beaumont if elected. Quaraishi said hopes that Neild will accomplish those tasks.

Although Quraishi is not sure if he'll participate in the next election, in addition to his two runs for Ward I he also ran for an at-large seat in 2021 and lost to Albert "AJ" Turner and Incumbent Randy Feldschau.

RELATED: Beaumont At-Large race shows clear winners

Attorney at the Samuel Law Firm, Samuel has served as Ward III council member for over 30 years. He was first elected in 1984 and served through 1993. Elected again in 1999, Samuel has been the Ward III council member since.

"I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving and am looking forward to this term," Samuel said.

Throughout his the term, Samuel hopes to see drainage and street improvements, to work toward economic development for downtown and to help Beaumont become a destination city.

"I love Beaumont," Samuel said. "Beaumont has been good to me and I owe it to this community to try to do everything I can to make it better. That's what I'll continue to do, try to make Beaumont a better place to live, work and raise our families."

This election was the first for Sharp, the founder and pastor of Faith Christian Center Church, and he is "feeling good" about the race that he ran.

"We ran a very integral campaign," Sharp said. "The people have spoken and Audwin won. So, we're going to support our Councilman and the rest of the council."

Although he is not yet sure, Sharp said it is "very possible" his name will be found on the ballot again in the future.

Senigaur, a corrections officer at Jefferson County Correctional Facility, ran for city of Beaumont mayor in 2019 and again in 2021. He could not be reached for comment on Monday.
Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun, center, and other representatives pose for a group photo at the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework talks in Los Angeles, Sept. 22, 2022, in this photo provided by the trade ministry. Yonhap



Korea will participate in the third round of official negotiations for the United States-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) to be held in Singapore this week, the industry ministry said Monday.



During the upcoming session, set to take place from Monday through May 15, the member nations will work to make progress in setting details of its four key pillars  trade, supply chain resilience, clean economy and fair economy, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.



Korea sent a delegation led by senior ministry official Roh Keon-ki and involving officials from the industry, finance, foreign and other related ministries for working-level and chief delegate meetings, it added.



"This negotiation will be crucial in terms of making concrete progress in the four sectors. We will do our best to set forth our stance proactively and seek cooperation with nations in a similar position with Korea," the ministry said in a release.



The IPEF was launched in May last year with a goal to promote resilience and fairness, and fuel sustainable economic growth and investment in the region, and the first rule-setting meeting was held in the Australian city of Brisbane in December.



The member nations had a special session in India in February before holding the second negotiating round in March in Bali.



The fourth round will take place in Korea's southern port city of Busan, the ministry said.



'The 14 IPEF partner nations, including Japan, Australia, India and Vietnam, represent 40 percent of global gross domestic product and 28 percent of global goods and services trade, according to government data.



As of 2021, trade volume between Korea and the remaining 13 IPEF member nations came to $498.4 billion, accounting for 39.6 percent of Seoul's total trade that year. (Yonhap)


In a reflection of passengers' growing dissatisfaction after waves of pandemic-era flight cancellations and delays, the Biden administration announced Monday it wants airlines to compensate passengers for travel disruptions.

The Transportation Department is launching an effort to set new rules that would guarantee compensation when cancellations or significant delays occur that are under airlines' control. Among the changes: Airlines would be required to rebook travelers, provide a meal or meal vouchers, and pay for hotel accommodations and travel to and from the airport.

"We know how frustrating delays, cancellations and rebookings are for travelers," Biden said. "Last holiday season, travelers were stranded for days and had to scramble to find other ways to reach their destinations . . . And while flight delays and cancellations have come down since then, there's still a problem. American air travelers deserve better."

The proposal would mark a significant shift in how the Transportation Department regulates air travel, providing protections similar to those of European and Canadian travelers. Current aviation rules only require ticket refunds. The proposed changes come amid growing calls for regulators to better protect airline consumers after pandemic-related strains put a spotlight on the industry.

The administration's announcement precedes the closely watched summer travel season, in which airlines are aiming to avoid the widespread disruptions that marred last summer and the Christmas and New Year's holiday periods. Elevated rates of cancellations and delays are partially the result of the pandemic, but they have tested the patience of travelers, lawmakers and federal regulators.

"Airlines need to accept their fundamental responsibility to better serve passengers when they don't," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. "We are here to enforce passenger rights and hold airlines accountable."

The proposed changes were lauded by consumer groups that said the administration's actions were overdue. They are likely, however, to face fierce opposition from the airline industry.

Republicans on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, including the highest-ranking Republican on the committee, Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas), blasted the proposal Monday.

"Instead of addressing the many pressing challenges facing our aviation system, the Biden administration is making obvious that their goal is to re-regulate every single facet of passenger air travel," said Christian McMullen, a spokesman for committee Republicans. "These unnecessary regulations will reduce competition, access to certain markets, and drastically increase costs for travel."

Airlines for America, an industry group that represents the largest domestic carriers, did not address the proposal directly but said in a statement Monday that cancellations and delays are often caused by factors outside their control, such as weather and air traffic control issues.

"U.S. airlines have no incentive to delay or cancel a flight and do everything in their control to ensure flights depart and arrive on time," the group said. "We look forward to working with the Administration to ensure U.S. airspace remains the safest airspace in the world while supporting robust marketplace competition."

Kerry Tan, an associate professor of economics at Loyola University Maryland, said that the proposed rules might seem like a win for consumers on the surface but added that there could be a downside. Among his concerns: Airlines could raise prices to make up for the additional costs, or they might reduce flights to improve performance.

Robert Mann of R.W. Mann & Co., an aviation consulting firm, said the timing of the announcement could mislead travelers into thinking they would be eligible for compensation this summer, rather than months or years from now.

At the start of the pandemic, Congress swept in to rescue the airline industry, which saw demand for tickets all but evaporate in early 2020. Lawmakers ultimately provided $54 billion in aid, funds they said would protect jobs and were an acknowledgment of the industry's importance to the economy.

But even with that taxpayer aid, airlines cut their head counts and many proved unready for a rapid rebound in demand for tickets in 2021. Travelers last summer again were frustrated by high rates of cancellations and delays, many of them caused by issues under airlines' control. In late December, a meltdown at Southwest Airlines disrupted the holiday plans of thousands.

At a recent House hearing on the Federal Aviation Administration's budget, some lawmakers laid out what their constituents have faced.

"I had someone say, 'I don't feel like I'm buying a ticket; I feel like I'm buying a chance,'" said Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.).

As the mood has soured, the administration has been ratcheting up pressure on airlines in recent months. The announcement Monday marks the next step in that process.

The Transportation Department last year published a dashboard that allowed travelers to compare what help individual airlines had promised to provide travelers in the event of a cancellation or significant delay. That step led several airlines to pledge new help for stranded travelers.

The administration expanded that push Monday, launching a new website called FlightRights that lists whether airlines provide cash or other forms of compensation. No airlines provide cash, according to the site, but Alaska Airlines provides travel vouchers and frequent flier miles, and JetBlue Airways provides vouchers.

The Transportation Department has proposed other changes to airline regulations in recent years - including more fare transparency - but a push for compensation marks a bigger shift.

Some consumer advocates had faulted the department for doing too little to hold the industry accountable. On Monday, they praised officials for moving forward with a compensation proposal.

"This action reflects a common-sense principle, which is: Our time is valuable," said John Breyault, a vice president at the National Consumers League. "When we lose time because airlines screw up, we should get compensated. That seems to be what the DOT's proposal reflects."

The European Union already requires airlines to provide cash compensation for cancellations on a scale that increases with the length of the flight, with amounts topping out at 600 euros (about $660) for trips longer than 2,175 miles. Canadian rules provide for compensation of up to 1,000 Canadian dollars (about $750).

The Transportation Department said one study found the European rules contributed to a reduction in delays, but opponents of the idea say that airlines already are motivated to provide reliable service and that requiring compensation in the United States would do little to improve performance.

William McGee, a senior fellow at the American Economic Liberties Project, said although the rulemaking process will take time to play out, the updated dashboard could put pressure on airlines to offer compensation sooner.

"The question is: Will that have an effect in effectively shaming some airlines that have nothing but red X's instead of green check marks?" McGee said. "Let's hope so."

With demand for air travel continuing to recover from the pandemic, airlines are expecting a busy summer season, buoyed by resurgent demand for overseas trips. Airlines are adding flights, turning to larger aircraft and hiring employees to prepare.

Nonetheless, analysts say the potential for significant disruptions remains. One source of trouble lies with the government itself, with the Federal Aviation Administration warning that a shortage of air traffic controllers at a key New York facility could cause problems.
HADDAM  The Candlewood Farm Arts Foundation next month will be hosting the Solstice Symposium 2023, its fifth music festival promoting the study and celebration of classical guitar.

These include master classes, expert instruction and world-class performances, according to a press release.

It will be held between June 22 and 26, at Candlewood Farm, a charitable organization located at 95 Jacoby Road; and Higganum Congregational Church, 23 Parsonage Road; both of which are in Haddam.

Held in conjunction with June concerts, these performances of chamber music are free and open to the public, the news release said.

Joe Zipoli, who graduated from Wesleyan in the 1980s, started the foundation with a retired Wesleyan professor in 2008 with several goals in mind, including supporting chamber music and young musicians, he said.

Solstice Symposium 2023 offers students expert instruction and performances by internationally acclaimed artists, including Grammy-award-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux, Dr. Isaac Bustos, University of Texas at San Antonio guitar chairperson; Adam Levin and Dr. Andrew Zohn.

In addition, a special feature of this years festival is a presentation on early New England architecture by Connecticut historian James T. Powers.

Registration includes lessons, master classes, presentations and performances, and meals (lunch/dinner), and costs $300. Partial registration is also available.

A participants concert will be held the morning of June 26 at Candlewood Farm. Each performance begins with a show by a Solstice Symposium student, and includes an intermission. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the concerts.

Farm concerts take place at 7 p.m. The lineup is the Li & Zohn Duo, June 22; Duo Sonidos, June 23; and Isaac Bustos, June 24. Jason Vieaux will play the June 25 show at 4 p.m. at the church.

In June 2018, CFAF held its inaugural Solstice Symposium, which now takes place every June at venues throughout Connecticut, according to the website.

The Candlewood foundation mission to support live chamber music and the study and preservation of early New England architecture, especially vernacular structures in the Connecticut River Valley, according to the news release.

It is located at the Capt. John Smith property, a farmstead in Higganum listed on the Connecticut State Register of Historic Places.

For the farm shows, reservations are recommended by emailing arts@candlewoodfarmartsfoundation.org. For other information, visit candlewoodfarmartsfoundation.org or call Joe Zipoli at (347) 415-5900.
Hundreds of motorists in Washington, D.C., have been repeatedly caught speeding and running red lights, racking up thousands of dollars in fines they do not pay, according to public records that demonstrate the city's inability to bring high-risk drivers to account.

More than 2,100 vehicles have at least 40 outstanding tickets, according to data from the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, and about 1,200 cars are linked to fines exceeding $20,000 over the past five years. Topping the list of offenders is a car with Maryland tags that has 339 outstanding tickets worth $186,000 in fines and penalties.

In all, more than 6.2 million traffic tickets totaling nearly $1.3 billion in fines and penalties have not been paid to D.C. since Jan. 1, 2000.

A March crash that killed three people on Rock Creek Parkway in Maryland highlighted the threat that dangerous drivers, and particularly those with repeated offenses, pose to other road users. D.C. officials say fines - mostly issued by traffic cameras - are the city's top enforcement tool, but despite a robust automated traffic enforcement system that issues fines of up to $500 for speeding, a Washington Post analysis of DMV data found that thousands of drivers simply ignore the tickets.

After ticketing, D.C.'s options to go after scofflaws are limited to vehicle booting and towing on public roads, part of a system that was not created to target repeat offenders. As a result, traffic violators can evade consequences for years.

In the wee hours of March 15, the driver of an SUV fleeing a traffic stop collided with a sedan, killing its occupants - a 42-year-old Lyft driver and two men, ages 22 and 23, on their way home from a night out in D.C. According to city records, as of late April, the SUV had 49 outstanding tickets with fines totaling $17,280. The records are linked to violations involving the vehicle, rather than a specific driver.

"D.C. had data showing that this driver was an extreme risk to life and welfare," said Ryan Calder, an assistant professor of environmental health and policy at Virginia Tech who studies traffic collisions and helped draft a petition that calls on the city to remove dangerous drivers from roads. "And then, very predictably, the driver of the car annihilated three people in a horrific collision. And that was the very predictable outcome of this breakdown in governance."

The crash spurred outrage, with the victims' relatives asking why D.C. authorities had not done more to keep the SUV and its driver off the streets. More than a month later, little is known publicly about who was operating the SUV when it crashed, and no charges have been filed. U.S. Park Police have said only that the vehicle was occupied by a man and woman who were taken to hospitals after the crash.

The three deaths are among 19 traffic fatalities so far this year on city streets - a 36 percent increase from the same time last year.

DMV Director Gabriel Robinson said that about 30 percent of D.C. traffic tickets are not paid and that the city has limited tools to enforce some categories of traffic violations, particularly those issued as part of the camera enforcement program. Most of the unpaid fines - except for a small share resulting from police stops - are linked to vehicles rather than drivers because D.C. traffic cameras, as in many other jurisdictions, do not take pictures of a car's occupants.

Vehicles can rack up fines over years - which the car's owner is responsible for paying - but the person or people driving those cars can keep their licenses if they do not pay.

Since 2000, more than 3 million photo-issued tickets have gone unpaid in the city for a total of $840.8 million, which includes a doubling of original fines and a 20 percent collection fee applied to outstanding tickets. An additional 2.9 million parking tickets also have gone unpaid, for an extra $398 million in fines and penalties, DMV records show.

Robinson said his agency focuses on education and regularly hears from drivers facing thousands of dollars in outstanding fines who are trying to settle the debt.

"The system is built and designed that there is an opportunity to be caught, and the city does do efforts and activities to catch them, and eventually we do," he said. "I wouldn't use the term that 'they're just getting away with it.' It is 'we haven't caught them yet.'"

About 38,000 vehicles with D.C., Maryland or Virginia plates have two or more unpaid parking or traffic tickets that are at least 60 days old, making those vehicles eligible to be booted on D.C. streets, according to data on tickets issued in the past five years. Roughly 13,400 vehicles have accumulated more than $5,000 in camera-issued tickets.

In the case of the deadly Rock Creek Parkway crash, Park Police said the traffic stop that preceded the collision was for a speeding violation that an officer had observed. At the time, the SUV had more than 40 outstanding traffic tickets with fines totaling $12,300. The Washington Post used TV news footage of the license plate to link the vehicle to the outstanding tickets. Most of the violations, listed on the DMV website, were for speeding. At least six citations since late October 2022 were for driving at least 25 mph over the speed limit.

City records updated after the crash show the vehicle has accumulated an additional $4,980 in fines, making for a total debt of $17,280. Some of the unpaid penalties appear to have increased after the crash, most likely because of late fees, but more than $2,000 of the new penalties are from speeding tickets on the day of the crash.

The DMV data shows the SUV was caught on camera that day driving at least 25 mph over the speed limit in two locations east of the Anacostia River about 2 miles apart. The records do not list the time of the violations.

Prosecutors must determine whether the crash involved a crime. If authorities decide, on the basis of the facts of the case, that the collision was an accident, the driver can avoid criminal charges. But if they opt to press charges, drivers can face decades in prison on a charge of second-degree murder, involuntary manslaughter or negligent homicide.

The family of the Lyft driver killed in the crash, Mohamed Kamara, said Park Police officers told them to expect at least a three-month wait before charges are filed to allow investigators to process evidence and complete a reconstruction of the crash.

"The system has already failed by the fact that they were still driving that car when they had so many violations," said Mohamed Fofana, Kamara's brother-in-law. "But, hopefully, the investigation and the court system will hold that person accountable. I don't mind waiting as long as at the end of the day, justice is served."

The U.S. attorney's office declined to provide an update on the status of the investigation, saying the case is active.

Lucinda M. Babers, D.C.'s deputy mayor for operations and infrastructure, said she could not comment on the crash, citing the ongoing investigation, but acknowledged a problem with frequent offenders in the District.

"We are always looking for ways to do the enforcement," Babers said. "Issuing the tickets is the actual enforcement."

The challenge is getting people to pay the fines and, more important, she said, to change their behavior. She said the traffic camera system helps to deter bad behavior but added that the city's 136 cameras are not enough to send a stronger message to lawbreakers.

Of the 200 vehicles with the most fines caught by traffic cameras since Jan. 1, 2018, nearly half involved cars with Maryland plates, just over a third had Virginia plates, and 10 percent were registered in D.C. A review of citation records showed that traveling 25 mph over the limit - which prompts a fine of $500 - was common among offenders.

The D.C. Department of Transportation is expected to deploy more cameras in major commuter corridors this summer. Babers also said the city is considering more outreach and education for drivers - particularly those with a record of infractions. At the same time, the District is pursuing reciprocity agreements with Maryland and Virginia in hopes of bringing consequences to drivers in those states who violate traffic laws in the city.

Under such agreements, registrations and driver's licenses of Maryland and Virginia drivers could be suspended if D.C. traffic fines reach a certain threshold. The states would receive a percentage of the fines recovered. Those negotiations have stalled in recent years.

For now, the city relies on booting and towing vehicles in hopes that drivers will pay their ticket debts to recover their vehicle. But with only four crews assigned to booting, officials said it is impossible to target high-risk drivers because city workers do not know their locations. Babers said it is likely that offenders "are aware that we boot and tow so they may then park the vehicle in a garage or on private property," which is off-limits to city crews.

D.C. police spokesman Hugh Carew said police do not have access to driving records when they make a traffic stop, nor do they keep a list of license plates linked to people with bad driving records.

Still, the DMV can prevent a D.C. vehicle owner with ticket debt from renewing the vehicle's registration, but as of early this year, it no longer can bar a person from renewing a driver's license. The city also had power years ago to suspend licenses of people fined for moving violations and could refer drivers with ticket debts to credit reporting agencies, affecting their ability to obtain credit until they settled the debts.

"Those tools are slowly being taken away, to the point where the booting and towing" are the only available enforcement options, Babers said. Some of those measures were removed amid concerns that fines inequitably hurt low-income residents.

In response to the Rock Creek Parkway crash, road safety advocates and civic groups created a petition urging the city to adopt policies to reduce traffic risks they say disproportionately affect lower-income and Black communities. Among their recommendations: crack down on fake plates, pursue reciprocity with Maryland and Virginia, use traffic camera data to identify drivers who pose the greatest risks, and create a system that targets cars with repeated offenses for booting and impoundment.

Northeast Washington resident Christy Kwan, who has spent years advocating for safer streets, said the city should do more to target drivers who repeatedly disregard the safety of other road users.

"It's absolutely painful to hear about fatal crashes and how, in many cases, the striking driver had an egregious amount of moving violations," she said. "Driving is an absolute privilege, and is not a right. And reckless drivers need to be held accountable."
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Iran and its proxies are enabling attacks on U.S. troops in Syria through clandestine weapons shipments hidden within humanitarian aid that has flowed into the region after a catastrophic earthquake killed tens of thousands earlier this year, according to classified U.S. intelligence and an Israeli military official familiar with the matter.

The findings, outlined in a leak of U.S. secrets circulated on the Discord messaging platform and obtained by The Washington Post, raise dire questions about the ability of the United States and its allies to intercept Iranian-sourced arms used routinely to target American personnel, partner forces and civilians in the Middle East. The top-secret document, which has not been previously disclosed, amplifies earlier reports of Iran's alleged efforts to conceal defensive military equipment within aid deliveries to Syria after the February disaster devastated that country and neighboring Turkey.

A U.S. defense official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive disclosures, declined to address the document's authenticity but said the activity it describes is consistent with past efforts by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to "use humanitarian aid going into Iraq and Syria as a way to get materials to IRGC-affiliated groups."

Iran's mission to the United Nations did not return a request for comment. Last month, Iranian officials told the Reuters news agency that its report, detailing Tehran's alleged use of cargo planes to smuggle air defense systems into Syria under the guise of earthquake assistance, was "not true." Reuters attributed its reporting to nine people in Syria, Iran, Israel and the West.

Iran's alleged smuggling of offensive weapons into Syria includes unspecified small arms, ammunition and drones, according to the leaked U.S. intelligence assessment. The document says those deliveries were made using vehicle convoys from Iraq coordinated through friendly militant groups there and the Quds Force, Iran's elite expeditionary unit that specializes in managing proxy fighters and intelligence gathering.

The Israeli military official, who like others interviewed for this report spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive information, affirmed that the Quds Force was involved in such activity.

In the earthquake's immediate aftermath, Iran and its affiliates moved quickly to exploit the chaos, the leaked intelligence document contends. On Feb. 7, a day after the disaster leveled scores of homes and other buildings, setting off desperate rescue efforts, a militia group based in Iraq "allegedly orchestrated the transfer of rifles, ammunition and 30 UAVs hidden in aid convoys to support future attacks on U.S. forces in Syria," it says. UAV is military shorthand for unmanned aerial vehicle.

On Feb. 13, a Quds Force officer directed an Iraqi militia group to "embed weapons within legitimate earthquake aid," the leaked U.S. document indicates, noting that another Quds Force officer maintained a list of "hundreds" of vehicles and goods that entered Syria from Iraq after the earthquake, an apparent effort to manage where all of the trafficked weapons were headed.

The leaked U.S. assessment also implicates the "PMC chief of staff," an apparent reference to Abu Fadak Al-Mohammedawi, a senior official with Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces. The consortium of Shiite militias, aligned in many cases with Iran, receives Iraqi government funding through its formal state body, the Popular Mobilization Committee, or PMC.

The group denied claims that its affiliates have used humanitarian assistance shipments as a conduit for weapon deliveries. The aid packages were authorized by the Iraqi government and reached Syrian people in need, said Moayad Al Saadi, a spokesperson. Such allegations, he said, "will not discourage the Iraqi people from helping the Syrian brothers and standing with them in their humanitarian ordeal, away from any political or other considerations."

The leaked intelligence findings spotlight an uncomfortable reality: that even as 2,500 U.S. troops continue to serve in Iraq as advisers, working alongside the Iraqi army, the government in Baghdad appears unwilling to pursue PMF militants who pose a threat to both militaries.

Iraq's prime minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, came into office last year with the backing of Iranian-linked groups. A spokesperson declined to provide a response on the record. A senior official in his office, however, denied the U.S. document's findings, calling them "fake" and saying there is no pretext needed to supply weapons to groups in Syria that work with Iran.

"In reality the borders are wide open; in fact we are still suffering from illegals sneaking through the Syrian border," this official said. "Which means if these documents are right, it's possible any time. Why wait for an aid convoy as a justification?"

Israel has targeted convoys suspected of hauling weapons to Syria and Lebanon, the leaked intelligence documents says, but the risk of hitting bona fide humanitarian deliveries has posed challenges. It is "very likely" that the Israelis will continue their interdiction efforts, but they require "stricter intelligence confirmation prior to striking alleged aid shipments," the document says.

In Syria, where roughly 900 U.S. troops work with local forces to stifle a resurgence of the Islamic State, the threat from Iranian-aligned groups is persistent, U.S. officials say.

In March, for instance, a U.S. contractor working at a base there was killed by what the Pentagon said was an Iranian-made drone. The attack wounded another contractor there, and several U.S. service members suffered head injuries from the explosion.

U.S. officials are confident that the drone that killed U.S. contractor Scott Dubis was not smuggled into the country in one of the earthquake aid convoys, the U.S. defense official said, declining to provide further details.

Dubis, a longtime U.S. military contractor from South Carolina, was killed March 23 while working on an armored vehicle on a U.S. base near Hasakah, a city in northeastern Syria. The hangar he was working in during the attack was not as well protected as the rest of the base, a second U.S. military official said. An Avenger air defense system was there to guard against aerial threats, the official said, and it remains unclear why and how the system failed to engage the drone.

Soon after Dubis's death, U.S. fighter jets struck the Iranian-backed militias believed to be responsible for the attack, prompting a stern warning to Tehran from President Biden, who said the United States would respond forcefully to violent attacks on American personnel.

Mike Dubis, Scott Dubis's older brother, told The Post that U.S. officials have not provided his family with any details about the investigation. The lack of information has been dispiriting, he said, because serious questions remain about how the militants were able to penetrate the defenses of a U.S. military base.

"It sounds like not enough is being done to prevent it," Mike Dubis said.

- - -

Salim reported from Baghdad and Hendrix from Jerusalem. Louisa Loveluck in London contributed to this report.
Rhode Island officials recently announced the proposed location of a place where people could safely use illegal drugs under the watch of staff trained to reverse overdoses - only the second such program in the United States. Visitors would also be able to get meals and showers, test their own drugs for deadly substances, get HIV and hepatitis C testing, and access support groups and addiction treatment.

"We know people's lives are going to be saved," said Colleen Daley Ndoye, executive director of Project Weber/Renew, the nonprofit tasked with running the Providence site slated to open next year.

But in Pennsylvania, where another nonprofit with similar aspirations is mired in litigation, the Pennsylvania Senate overwhelming voted May 1 to ban such centers, sometimes called supervised injection sites. The vote came six days after Colorado lawmakers killed a bill in committee that would have authorized the sites in that state.

"We need to prioritize sobriety, not just allow addiction to continue and spiral," said Pennsylvania state Sen. Christine Tartaglione, a Philadelphia Democrat, who introduced the bill and represents parts of the neighborhood of Kensington, the epicenter of the city's opioid epidemic.

The contrasting approaches reflect the wariness of overdose prevention sites in the United States despite the staggering loss of life from drug deaths. Addiction experts and others regard the facilities as ways to reach people who use drugs where they are - and keep them alive - despite questions about the sites' legality under federal law. But even with the success of New York City's OnPoint NYC, the only government-sanctioned program operating in this country, such facilities are proving a tough sell over concerns they encourage drug use, crime and neighborhood blight. Similar sites operate in countries such as Canada, Australia and Portugal.

The legislative decisions in Pennsylvania and Colorado also are a blow for advocates of expanding harm reduction, a strategy that includes distributing overdose antidotes, sterile needles and testing drug supplies.

"This is a major step backwards in responding to the overdose crisis, especially at a moment when we're witnessing more support for harm reduction nationally and across red and blue states," Brown University epidemiologist Brandon Marshall said of the votes.

The Pennsylvania bill banning overdose prevention centers passed the Republican-controlled Senate with Democratic support. Whether it passes the Democratic-majority House remains to be seen. Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro, a former state attorney general, has publicly opposed the facilities.

In Colorado, where Democrats control both chambers, the state Senate's Health and Human Services committee on April 26 killed a bill that would have allowed cities to authorize the sites. The House had earlier passed the bill.

Sometimes called "safe consumption" or "supervised injection" sites, the facilities allow people to use their own drugs under the supervision of people trained to intervene with the opioid antidote naloxone if they overdose. Nearly 200 overdose prevention sites operate in 14 countries, according to the Drug Policy Alliance.

The centers aren't a fit for every community, but they do offer people struggling with addiction a welcoming place to get health care, aid in finding housing and treatment - and help staying alive, said Sean Fogler, a Pennsylvania drug policy expert who runs the public health consultant group Elevyst.

"If you do give them a clean needle, why then would you tell them to go to the bathroom at McDonald's and lock the door, or go to the alley and hide in the shadows and inject the drugs?" Fogler said. "With the drug supply today, there's a good chance you're going to die."

Advocates say research shows overdose prevention sites make drug use safer for participants. At last month's Harm Reduction International Conference, researchers from France presented a study that found that at two overdose prevention sites there, users were less likely to overdose, visit emergency rooms or commit crime.

But the facilities have proved controversial in the United States, despite the mounting death toll: more than 107,000 fatal overdoses in 2021, two-thirds of them from the opioid fentanyl. In Pennsylvania, 5,168 people died of overdoses in 2021.

Efforts to establish overdose prevention centers have been complicated by a decades-old federal law sometimes called the "crack house statute," which outlawed knowingly maintaining a place "for the purpose of manufacturing, distributing, or using a controlled substance."

In 2019, President Donald Trump's Justice Department cited the law in suing Safehouse, a nonprofit group that would have been the first in the nation to open an overdose prevention center in Philadelphia, where it faced fierce opposition from neighbors. A federal judge ruled in Safehouse's favor, but an appeals court overturned the decision in January 2021.

Safehouse countersued, saying such a ban violates the religious freedom of board members who believe they have a calling to "provide lifesaving medical treatment to a vulnerable population." The Biden administration, the first to embrace harm reduction strategies, has stopped short of endorsing such prevention sites. Settlement talks between the Justice Department and Safehouse have dragged on for over a year.

The Justice Department declined to comment on the status of those talks. Last year, it told the Associated Press it was "evaluating" overdose prevention sites and "appropriate guardrails." The litigation was further complicated last month when 20 community groups in Philadelphia asked to intervene, arguing the "government appears poised to switch sides" and they needed to protect "their health, safety, and property interests."

Sonja Bingham, a community activist from Philadelphia's Harrowgate neighborhood, said residents are tired of drug users from nearby Kensington defecating on the streets, discarding needles and breaking into properties. She said she believes an overdose prevention center will bring more users and drug dealers.

"You can have your addiction, but you don't have the right to impede on my quality of life," said Bingham, president of the Friends of Harrowgate Park, one of the groups asking to intervene.

Safehouse's vice president, Ronda Goldfein, pushed back on such criticism, arguing that moving drug use into prevention centers will curb use on the streets. "This isn't complicated," she said. "It works everywhere it's opened. It should be open here."

Goldfein declined to speculate how the Senate bill banning overdose prevention sites would impact the settlement talks if it were to become law.

Right now, the only government-approved safe consumption program is run by the nonprofit OnPoint NYC, which operates two facilities: one in East Harlem, the other in Washington Heights. The program connects participants to addiction and mental health treatment, job training and social services. Since opening in late 2021, over 3,200 participants have used the sites, with staff intervening in 898 overdoses - with no deaths. Staff members also have collected 1.7 million pieces of drug Baggies, discarded needles and used bandages.

"That's 1.7 million units of hazardous waste not on the streets, not in parks, not on playgrounds," said executive director Sam Rivera, who was recently named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people of 2023.

Despite those successes, securing private funding has been a constant worry - it costs $1.4 million annually to operate the prevention centers. Although New York City authorized the sites and supports their operations, the governor's office has declined to allocate opioid settlement money over questions of legality under federal law. Rivera said he is hopeful the organization will secure funding to keep going.

While advocates of future overdose prevention centers await the outcome of the Safehouse litigation, they are learning from the experiences of New York, Pennsylvania and California, where last year, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have authorized overdose prevention centers in three cities.

In San Francisco, an emergency harm-reduction hub set up in the troubled Tenderloin district early last year by the city also allowed people to use their own drugs under watch. At the Tenderloin Center, staff intervened in 333 overdoses over 46 weeks before the city shut it down in December, saying it was supposed to be temporary.

Participants were served nearly 100,000 meals, and they also got showers, laundry, wound care and referrals to treatment and therapy.

"The longer people were there, they were more likely to be engaged in a whole host of other services," said Alex Kral, an epidemiologist with the independent nonprofit research institute, RTI International.

But participants also described long wait times and shortages of staff and supplies. And because San Francisco required calls to 911 every time naloxone was used to revive someone who overdosed, it created a constant stream of ambulances to the site, raising concerns with neighbors.

Still, San Francisco has authorized private organizations to open sites. The mayor's office said it supports the concept and is awaiting guidance from the federal government over whether public money can go toward them.

Other communities aren't waiting to make such spending decisions. In Somerville, Mass., a largely blue-collar community just north of Cambridge, the city council allocated $827,000 for site preparation, construction and the purchase of a prefabricated building for such a center, although no location has been determined and officials are still awaiting clarity on legalities, said Matt Mitchell, Somerville's prevention services director.

In Rhode Island, the legislature in 2021 authorized its overdose prevention program. The state allocated $2.6 million in opioid lawsuit settlement money to fund the pilot's first year-plus. The site will be located at an existing opioid treatment clinic in an industrial part of Providence with no residential neighbors, which officials hope will lessen community concerns.

Nevertheless, staff members have been knocking on the doors of homes in nearby neighborhoods to answer questions about the facility. Project Weber/Renew - a long-established harm-reduction group which will run the program in conjunction with the opioid treatment clinic CODAC Behavioral Healthcare - must iron out design, construction and public-safety plans as it seeks approval from Providence's city council.

Daley Ndoye, of Project Weber/Renew, said she is closely watching what happens with state legislation and the Justice Department settlement talks in Pennsylvania.

"I want these sites to be open across the country," she said. "I want people's lives to be saved."
While MS-13's extreme violence has made them America's most notorious gang, they are far from the biggest threat in Houston or Texas. The crown belongs to Tango Blast.

The Texas Department of Public Safety rates Tango Blast and all of its associated cliques as one of only four Tier 1 groups in the latest Gang Threat Assessment report, which was published last year.
Texas Department of Public Safety

The San Antonio Police Department is looking for 14-year-old Juelz Robinson. An Amber Alert was issued for Robinson, who hasn't been seen or heard from in the last week, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety early Monday morning.

The young teen who stands at 5 feet and 6 inches tall and weighs 130 pounds has black hair and brown eyes. Robinson was last seen wearing a paperboy hat, black thin frame glasses, a dark colored shirt, black Nike shorts, and slip-ons. He was last seen at 12 a.m. on Monday, May 8, at the 900 block of Classen Pass, located on the Far Northside of San Antonio near Reagan High School, and was believed to be traveling on foot.
WASHINGTON (AP)  An investigation into Donald Trump's handling of classified documents has intensified in recent weeks, with prosecutors summoning a broad range of witnesses before a federal grand jury and zeroing in on questions of whether the former president or others obstructed government efforts to recover the records.

It remains unclear when the investigation led by Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith might end or whether Trump might face charges over documents found at Mar-a-Lago, his Florida estate. But as probes in Washington and Atlanta proceed, Republican critics of Trump see an opportunity for intensifying legal woes to take away his frontrunner mantle in the 2024 presidential race in a way that an earlier indictment in New York failed to do.

The ongoing investigations are the ones that have the meat, said Bobbie Kilberg, a longtime Republican donor who has become a vocal Trump critic.

Its very, very serious," she said. "It ought to have a real impact on the American people. And if it doesnt, all I can do is shake my head in bewilderment.

A grand jury in the Mar-a-Lago case has heard testimony over the last few months from numerous Trump associates. Prosecutors have put before the panel a lawyer who helped respond to Justice Department demands for the classified documents last year, and have also been interested in Mar-a-Lago surveillance footage. At least one witness was asked to testify a second time, suggesting prosecutors may be looking to lock in particular testimony they view as useful, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss secret legal proceedings.

In a message Friday on his Truth Social platform, Trump accused Smith of harassing and threatening my people" over the documents investigation, which he called a hoax. His lawyers have similarly sought to pre-emptively attack any indictment, telling the House Intelligence Committee in a letter last month that the Justice Department should be ordered to stand down from the probe.

Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement to The Associated Press on Monday that the investigations are nothing more than a targeted, politically motivated witch hunt against President Trump designed to prevent him from returning to the White House.

Investigators over the last year have cast a wide net. They've interviewed witnesses about Trumps handling of classified documents as president and about the response to a May 2022 subpoena that demanded the return of classified materials in his possession, people familiar with the matter have said. They've also sought to determine whether Trump took steps to hide any records taken to Mar-a-Lago or showed them to anyone, as part of a continued focus on possible obstruction.

Among the witnesses who recently testified was Matthew Calamari Jr., the director of security at Trump Organization, Trumps company, according to one of the people.

His testimony could be relevant because of prosecutors' subpoena to the Trump Organization last year for surveillance footage from the Palm Beach property. Video reviewed by prosecutors showed a Trump associate moving boxes of documents out of a Mar-a-Lago storage room, prosecutors have said. Other media organizations reported that Calamaris father, also named Matthew Calamari, a Trump organization executive vice president, testified last week too.

A moment that underscored the gravity of the case came in March when Smith's team secured the testimony of Trump lawyer M. Evan Corcoran after convincing a judge in sealed proceedings that Corcoran's legal services had been used in furtherance of a crime.

Corcoran helped draft a letter last June to the Justice Department attesting that Trump's team had conducted a diligent search for classified documents at Mar-a-Lago in response to the government's subpoena. At that time, the Trump team produced roughly three dozen classified documents, on top of 15 boxes of records returned in January 2022 to the National Archives and Records Administration.

But prosecutors suspected even more classified records remained. They obtained a search warrant last August and seized more than 100 additional documents.

In their letter, Trump's lawyers said that Corcoran expected investigators to return to Mar-a-Lago to go through any boxes of documents that remained, and that he and Trump understood this to be the beginning, not the end, of working cooperatively. Though the letter was addressed to lawmakers, it presumably includes arguments the lawyers would make to try to head off any potential indictment.

Prosecutors on Smith's team have simultaneously pressed forward with a separate probe into efforts by Trump and allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election, winning court orders to question key advisers and aides before the grand jury. Among the witnesses to appear was former Vice President Mike Pence, who two weeks ago spent hours inside the Washington courthouse.

In Georgia, prosecutors in Fulton County are investigating whether Trump or anyone else committed crimes in trying to undo his narrow loss in that state to Democrat Joe Biden.

The investigations are in addition to the March indictment from the Manhattan district attorney arising from hush-money payments during Trump's 2016 presidential campaign to a porn actor who alleged an extramarital sexual encounter with him years earlier.

Though a blow legally, the indictment seemed a boon for Trump in the Republican Party's evolving presidential primary contest ahead of the 2024 election. Trump's standing in the GOP had been slipping until he was charged, when suddenly, Republicans across the political spectrum rushed to defend him against what they framed as a questionable, politically motivated prosecution.

Today, polling suggests that Trump is the dominant frontrunner in the GOPs growing 2024 field.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Trumps chief primary rival, has struggled to maintain the same level of strength he wielded prior to Trumps indictment. But as the governor prepares to launch his campaign officially, his allies are quietly confident that Trumps baggage will eventually catch up to him.

Former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, a frequent Trump critic, described the New York indictment as somewhat of a swing and a miss.

But any further indictments prosecutors might bring, Duncan said, are going to be a whole different amplitude that hes gonna have to deal with.

___

Peoples reported from New York.
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LABUAN BAJO, Indonesia (AP)  A picturesque tourist destination will host crisis-weary Southeast Asian leaders with sun-splashed tropical islands, turquoise waters brimming with corals and manta rays, seafood feasts, and a hillside savannah crawling with Komodo dragons.

The sunshiny setting is a stark contrast to the seriousness of their agenda.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo picked the far-flung, rustic harbor town of Labuan Bajo as a laidback venue to discuss an agenda rife with contentious issues. These include the continuing bloody civil strife in Myanmar and the escalating territorial conflicts in the South China Sea between fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 10-nation regional bloc and its member states will meet for three days starting Tuesday, with the growing rivalry between the United States and China as a backdrop.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been reinforcing an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to better counter China over Taiwan and the long-seething territorial conflicts in the strategic South China Sea which involve four ASEAN members: Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Indonesia, this years ASEAN chair, has also confronted Chinese fishing fleets and coast guard that have strayed into what Jakarta says was its internationally recognized exclusive economic zone in the gas-rich Natuna Sea.

Widodo, who's in his final year on the world stage as he reaches the end of his two-term limit, said ASEAN aims to collaborate with any country to solve problems through dialogue.

That includes Myanmar where, two years after the military power grab that forced out Aung San Suu Kyis administration and sparked a bloody civil strife, ASEAN has failed to rein in the violence in its member state. A five-point peace plan by ASEAN leaders and the top Myanmar general, which calls for an immediate stop to killings and other violence and the start of a national dialogue, has been disregarded by Myanmars ruling military.

ASEAN stopped inviting Myanmars military leaders to its semiannual summits and would only allow non-political representatives to attend. Myanmar has protested the move.

In an additional concern involving Myanmar, Indonesian officials said Sunday that 20 of their nationals, who were trafficked into Myanmar and forced to perform cyber scams, had been freed from Myanmars Myawaddy township and brought to the Thai border over the weekend. During the summit, ASEAN leaders planned to express their concern over such human trafficking schemes in a joint statement, a draft copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said her country, as ASEAN chair, has tackled the Myanmar crisis in a non-adversarial way.

Colleagues certainly know that in the early stages of its leadership, Indonesia decided to take a non-megaphone diplomacy approach, Marsudi said. The aim is to provide space for the parties to build trust and for the parties to be more open in communicating.

Widodos choice of a seaside venue with stunning sunrises and sunsets and the sound of birds chirping all day complements that approach.

The Indonesian leader also hoped the high-profile ASEAN summit would put Labuan Bajo and outlying islands, dotted with white-sand beaches and even a rare pink-sand beach, under the global tourism spotlight.

This is a very good moment for us to host the ASEAN summit and showcase Labuan Bajo to the world, said Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who flew in Sunday with his wife to a red-carpet welcome flanked by military honor guards and dancing villagers with flower-filled headwear.

But there are a few hitches.

The far-flung fishing town with only three traffic lights and about 6,000 residents is acutely short of hotels for ASEANs swarm of diplomats, delegates and journalists. Many had to arrange to share rooms.

Unlike the more popular Bali resort island or the bustling concrete jungle of a capital Jakarta, which has hosted international conclaves in upscale hotels and convention centers, Labuan Bajo is a far smaller town that a visitor could cross from end to end with a brisk two-hour walk. There are no public buses, and villagers mostly move around by walking, riding scooters or driving private cars.

A small team of local technicians with hard hats were flown in to lay cables and expand internet connections at the venues on short notice.

On Sunday, Labuan Bajos small airport was jampacked with visitors. Teams of diplomats and journalists arrived to welcome streamers announcing the upbeat summit motto, ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.

Outside the airport named after the Komodo dragons, traffic quickly built up under the brutal noontime sun.

When the sun rose Monday morning, workers were still cementing some roadsides around the venues  a day before the summit opening.

Andre Kurniawan, who works at a dive center in Labuan Bajo, said the infrastructure developments would be a boon for Labuan Bajo villagers. We were isolated from some areas before and now they are open and the areas are getting better. I hope that Labuan Bajo can be a better tourist town in the future, he said.

Azril Azahari, chair of an association of Indonesian academic experts on tourism, told the AP that Labuan Bajo was not ready and apparently was chosen to host the summit on short notice. The hotel facilities and the lodging have become a problem. There is a ship being used for accommodation and its not a lodging ship, he said.

Welcoming visitors to her coffee shop ahead of the summit, Suti Ana said even though it wasnt the best time for Labuan Bajo to host, ASEAN would boost local businesses. But we cannot wait, so this is the time, she said.

Choosing the small port town was not a bad idea, Azril said, if it came with adequate planning and government investments in infrastructure.

Located on the western tip of Flores island in southern Indonesia, Labuan Bajo, aside from its beaches and diving and snorkeling spots, has been better known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park  a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only place in the world where Komodo dragons, the worlds largest lizards, are found in the wild.

Environmentalists and tourism analysts fear that a wider public interest could put further stress on the already endangered Komodo dragons. Only about 3,300 were known to exist as of 2022.

If more people come, sooner or later the Komodo dragons cannot breed in peace, this can be a problem, Azahari said, citing longstanding fears that the Komodos could face extinction without full protection.

Despite the odds, Indonesian officials said they would do everything to successfully and safely host the ASEAN summit in Labuan Bajo.

If theres any commotion along the way, that will be a big stain on the nations dignity, Edistasius Endi, the regent of Labuan Najos West Manggarai district, said in a statement.

___

Associated Press journalists Jim Gomez and Achmad Ibrahim contributed to this report.

___

Find more of APs Asia-Pacific coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific
Chinese companies hailed for craftsmanship, timely completion of projects in Ethiopia

Xinhua) 13:29, May 08, 2023

ADDIS ABABA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has spoken highly of the completion of the second phase of the five-star Skylight Hotel in downtown Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

While inaugurating the second phase of the hotel owned by Ethiopian Airlines and built by China's AVIC International Holding Corporation, in the presence of high-level government officials including regional chiefs Friday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said such a grand hotel facility will serve as a milestone for other investors to follow suit and broaden their vision.

With the new extension, which cost more than 155 million U.S. dollars for construction, the hotel now has a total of 1,024 modern rooms and suites with different room types, including fully equipped apartments suitable for long and short-stay guests, according to Mesfin Tassew, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Ethiopian Airlines.

With less than ten minutes' drive from the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, the nine-story Skylight Hotel equipped with several modern recreational facilities is sure to dazzle high-end tourists.

"AVIC International Holding Corporation completed this expansion project in three years and two months. It has met the originally agreed time frame," said Tassew, who expressed happiness over the timely completion of the hotel with high-quality standards.

According to Tassew, AVIC International Holding Corporation built both the first and second phases of the Skylight Hotel. The first phase of the Skylight Hotel was put into service in January 2019.

Indicating that Chinese companies have undertaken several infrastructure projects for Ethiopian Airlines, including the expansion of the airport terminal and construction of runways, Tassew has praised the companies for meeting the timetable and constructing high-quality buildings. "The Chinese companies perform better than local contractors in terms of quality and timely completion," Tassew told Xinhua.

Appreciating the working environment in Ethiopia, Wu Qiang, the CEO of the AVIC International Holding Corporation, told Xinhua that there are ample opportunities for Chinese companies to invest in Ethiopia.

"I think it is a good opportunity for Chinese companies to invest and work in Ethiopia because Ethiopia is a great country and hosts the African Union," Wu said, hoping that Ethiopia would enjoy a bright future in attracting more Chinese companies.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pose for a photo during their expanded summit talks at the presidential office in Seoul, May 7. Yonhap



Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's expression of remorse over shared history came of his own accord without prior consultations between Seoul and Tokyo, sources said Monday.



Koreans paid close attention to whether Kishida would apologize or express remorse over Tokyo's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula when he held a summit with President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul on Sunday.



In a joint press conference following the summit, Kishida made a reference to forced labor victims of the colonial period, saying, "My heart aches over the fact that many people had an extremely painful and sad experience in harsh conditions at the time."



A presidential official told Yonhap News Agency Monday that the remark was not coordinated in advance of the summit.






This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Andrew Kravchenko/AP Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Andrew Kravchenko/AP Show More Show Less 3 of 3





BRUSSELS (AP)  The European Union's Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is traveling to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy.

The 27-nation bloc traditionally marks its peace and unity on May 9. On Monday, Zelenskyy announced his country would equally celebrate the day together with all of free Europe.
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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russia enacted a major security clampdown before Tuesdays annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones and ride-sharing services in its largest cities  even jet skis on the canals of St. Petersburg  amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities canceled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. It wasn't clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which hasn't witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

The fears of a possible Ukrainian attack appeared real, even though parades will go ahead in Russias largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities before Victory Day.

In St. Petersburg, often referred to as "Venice of the north for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city is prohibited through Wednesday. In the Russian capital, car-sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city center  drivers won't be able to start or finish rides there  amid preparations for the traditional Red Square parade.

Initially, only one foreign leader was expected to attend this years Moscow parade  Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, who arrived Monday and met with Putin for talks. That was one more foreign guest than last year, when no leaders went amid Putins broad diplomatic isolation over the war. The Kremlin at the time said it hadn't invited any because it wasn't a round-number anniversary.

But on Monday officials announced that Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon would be joining Putin and Zhaparov at the festivities, along with Armenias prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, and Kazakhstans leader, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Late Monday, Belarusian media said that country's president, Alexander Lukashenko, had arrived in Moscow to attend the parade. His presence is significant because Russia bases troops and arms being used in Ukraine in Belarus, and Putin said in March that tactical nuclear weapons would be placed there.

Pashinyan and Tokayev were surprising choices for the guest list as they have in the past diverged from Putin's line. Kazakhstan and Armenia, though Russian allies, haven't publicly supported the war in Ukraine. In fact, Tokayev has spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone several times throughout the invasion.

Tokayev also told Putin last summer that Kazakhstan wouldn't recognize the Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

Armenia is a member of the Russian-dominated Collective Security Treaty Organization, but Pashinyan snubbed Moscow earlier this year by refusing to host the alliance's military drills.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8, and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Zelenskyy equated Russias goals in Ukraine to those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is due to travel to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Zelenskyy.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlin's forces killed four civilians, officials said Monday.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Russia has faced economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains because of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Moscow has routinely turned to Iranian Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said. Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said. One person was killed and three others were wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the front-line southern Zaporizhzhia region, toward the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city about 100 kilometers (60 miles) to the southeast, it said.

On Friday, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially-occupied Zaporizhzhia region ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there, including Enerhodar, which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to the occupied Crimean Peninsula.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Election officials in battleground Wisconsin hope to revive a bipartisan plan they say is critical to rebuilding confidence in elections but that was killed last week by Republicans without debate.

The state's chief elections official said a new division designed to handle voters' concerns and deal with an onslaught of records requests and complaints was exactly what Wisconsin needs and of critical importance.

The Legislature's Republican-controlled budget-writing committee rejected the commission's request along with more than 500 other spending proposals from Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in a single vote last Tuesday.

The move is contrary to other battleground states that are taking steps to invest in trust in elections ahead of the 2024 presidential race.

I certainly hope it comes back, said Don Millis, the Republican chair of the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission, which proposed the plan. There are things we can do to improve confidence, and thats where this inspector general office comes in.

Millis said he intended to ask lawmakers whether the plan could be revived as a bill, but the head of the Assembly elections committee told The Associated Press he's already looking elsewhere for ways to build trust in elections.

I think it makes more sense for the municipalities to be in charge of their decision making and problem solving," Republican Rep. Scott Krug said. Krug said lawmakers are working on plans to fund grants for local election officials, instead of more staff for the statewide elections commission. He had not heard from any lawmakers trying to revive the commission's request.

We would need to see details, but will always support additional funding for election administration and security, including at the local level, said Meagan Wolfe, the nonpartisan administrator of the commission and the states top elections official. But she also pressed the Legislature to reconsider the commission's request for 10 full-time staff for a new inspector general office at a cost of $1.9 million over two years.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission was created by Republicans in 2016, but it has increasingly been the target of GOP criticism since former President Donald Trump spread false claims that election fraud led to his defeat in Wisconsin in 2020.

There is no evidence of widespread fraud in Wisconsin in 2020, and the election outcome has withstood two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a conservative law firms review, numerous state and federal lawsuits and even a Republican-ordered investigation by a former state Supreme Court justice.

Still, some Republicans have pushed to eliminate the elections commission entirely.

The primary responsibility for administering elections in Wisconsin falls to more than 1,800 local clerks in one of the most decentralized systems nationwide. The commission sets rules, certifies results and provides clerks with training and grants. Until recently, the agency had only one attorney and one public information officer to process complaints and respond to voters questions.

Conspiracy theorists, skeptics and even lawmakers looking for evidence of election fraud have inundated the elections commission with requests in recent years. Ahead of the 2022 midterm, the agency was receiving more than three times the number of complaints it had in 2020, and records requests topped eight times its 2016 average, according to an August report.

The three Republican and three Democratic election commissioners, who are appointed by the governor and legislative leaders, unanimously approved the request for an inspector general office last year.

"These investments are critical to boosting resiliency in our election infrastructure ahead of next years General Election," Wolfe said in a statement after lawmakers killed the plan.

Millis, the Republican chair of the commission, said it's not fatal if the plan fails. But he wanted lawmakers to at least consider new ways to build trust in elections and ease the workload of commission staff.

In addition to investigating complaints and responding to records requests, the new inspector general office would have been tasked with reviewing the accessibility of polling sites, engaging directly with concerned voters and helping to train local election officials.

___

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 Harm on Twitter.
LIMA, Peru (AP)  A fire broke out deep in a gold mine in southern Peru and killed at least 27 workers during an overnight shift, Peruvian authorities reported.

The Yanaquihua mining company said in a statement that 175 workers had been safely evacuated after the accident, which happened late Friday or early Saturday. It said the 27 dead worked for a contractor that specializes in mining.
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BELGRADE, Serbia (AP)  Thousands marched in silence on Monday in Serbia in a major outpouring of grief and anger against the populist government and how it reacted after two mass shootings last week that left 17 people dead and 21 wounded, many of them children.

The gatherings in Belgrade and the northern city of Novi Sad were dubbed Serbia against violence. They were called by opposition parties, which demanded the resignations of government ministers and the withdrawal licenses to the state controlled mainstream media that promote violence and often host convicted war criminals and crime figures on their programs.

After the protest officially ended, some of the protesters chanted slogans against Serbia's increasingly autocratic president, Aleksandar Vucic, demanding that he step down, as they passed by government headquarters in Belgrade.

The president later dismissed the protest as shameful during an interview on pro-government Happy television. He accused the opposition of abusing people's grief for their political ends and inciting violence.

It's pure politics, said Vucic, also describing the organizers as vultures.

The shootings  on Wednesday in Belgrade at an elementary school, and on Thursday in a rural area south of the capital  left the nation stunned. They triggered calls to encourage tolerance and rid society of widespread hate speech and a gun culture stemming from the 1990s wars.

Education Minister Branko Ruzic submitted his resignation on Sunday and authorities launched a gun crackdown, but opposition said this was too little, too late.

There were no official estimates of crowds that streamed into central Belgrade streets on Monday evening, but observers described the gathering as the biggest in years against Vucic and his government. In Novi Sad, participants held a banner reading Everything has to stop" and threw flowers into the Danube River to commemorate those killed in the shootings.

We have to learn anew how to speak to each other and how to create a healthy future ... to nurture the beauty of living, of art, science and humanity, said Biljana Stojkovic, a leader of the leftist Zajedno, or Together, party. The worst among us have been in power for an entire decade, and they imposed the norms of aggression, intolerance, crime and lies.

One of the largest anti-government protest in recent years in Serbia also reflected how rattled the nation has been by the shootings.

The school shooting on Wednesday was the first in Serbia's recent history. A 13-year-old boy took his father's guns and opened fire at the school he attended in the heart of Belgrade, shooting at his peers and killing seven girls, one boy and a school guard.

A day later, a 20-year-old man used an automatic weapon in a shooting rampage in two villages in central Serbia, randomly killing eight people and wounding 14. Prosecutors said that he has confessed to the killings and said he wanted to spread fear among residents, state media have reported.

Earlier on Monday, police deployed in schools throughout Serbia in an effort to restore a shaken sense of security as children largely returned to classes. Teams of experts have been sent with the backing of U.N. childrens agency UNICEF, offering support and guidelines for children, their parents and teachers.

Thousands have lit candles and left messages, toys and flowers to commemorate the victims. On Monday, a police officer stood in silence at the entrance of Vladislav Ribnikar school, where students are set to gradually start returning on Wednesday.

Also Monday, people who own unlicensed guns can start handing them over at police stations without punishment. Other new gun-control measures include a moratorium on new licenses, strict control of existing ones and the tightening of rules for gun possession, which officials say will leave many current gun owners without weapons.

Independent international surveys have put Serbia among the top countries in Europe for gun ownership per capita. Gun control has been loose since the 1990s Yugoslav wars, when many brought back weapons from battlefields.

Vucic has said there are around 400,000 registered gun owners in Serbia, but many more own guns illegally.

Serbia has never faced up to its role in the conflict against other ethnic groups of the former Yugoslavia. Right-wing and nationalist sentiments have been on the rise and war criminals are regarded as heroes rather than villains, with many retaining public roles after serving their sentences.

On Monday, a group of activists painted a red heart over a mural honoring wartime Bosnian Serb army commander Ratko Mladic, who is serving life in prison for genocide in Bosnia on a U.N. court conviction. The mural, located just a few blocks from the school where the shooting took place, surfaced months ago and previous attempts to remove it were thwarted by masked thugs.

___

Dusan Stojanovic contributed to this report.

___

A previous version of this story was corrected to show that the education minister submitted his resignation on Sunday, not Wednesday.
An outlet mall in Texas where shoppers perused popular fashion brands, met friends for lunch, or took their phones to replace a cracked screen became the latest target of an American gunman this weekend, leaving eight people dead.

The massacre is sure to prompt questions over security measures at other outdoor malls and shopping centers, even as advocates in Connecticut and elsewhere say it highlights the need for lawmakers to take broader action to address the nations epidemic of gun violence.

Hospitals, gas stations, malls, prom parties, homes, street corners  mass shootings are so consistent now that we, as a nation, have seemingly accepted this as normal life in America, said a statement Sunday from Nicole Hockley, the founder of Sandy Hook Promise, and the mother of a first-grader killed in the 2012 massacre at the Newtown elementary school.

We must not let the pain and immensity of the problem numb us into complacency and resignation, Hockley added.

The pace of mass shootings in 2023 is on track to break records in America, with at least 22 massacres claiming the lives of four or more victims as of this weekend, the Associated Press reported.

Two of the more recent shootings have taken place in Texas, a state fabled for its culture of gun ownership and permissive firearms laws. Other deadly massacres, meanwhile, have occurred in California, where laws around gun ownership are more restrictive.

Connecticut passed some of the strictest gun control laws in the nation following the Sandy Hook shooting, which have largely been credited for the states relatively low rate of gun violence and ability to prevent other mass shootings, according to Mike Lawlor, a professor of criminal justice at the University of New Haven.

For example, Lawlor said that Texas permissive open carry laws allow anyone to carry a loaded AR-15-style weapon  the kind police say was used by the gunman in Allen  though such behavior would likely lead to swift arrest in Connecticut, despite ongoing debate over what the law here actually says.

On top of state laws, Lawlor noted that most major retailers have policies prohibiting customers from carrying even legally-possessed weapons.

Still, Lawlor said that most laws and security measures can do little to deter someone who is willing to die in the course of a rampage, especially as military-style rifles remain readily accessible in much of the U.S. A security guard who was working at the Allen Premium Outlets was among those killed in the shooting, and police said that the gunman was eventually stopped by an armed officer who was already at the shopping center on an unrelated matter.

This guy just jumped out of his car and started shooting, Lawlor said. I dont know how you stop that.

The shopping center where the massacre unfolded is owned by Simon Property Group, the nations largest mall operator. The companys properties include the Clinton Premium Outlets in Connecticut.

The general manager of the Clinton outlet mall, Kathleen Mones, referred a reporters questions on Monday to Simon's corporate headquarters, which did not immediately offer a response.

Elsewhere in Connecticut, few other representatives of local malls were willing to discuss their response to the latest shooting, including any additional steps they had taken to enhance security.

Brookfield Properties, another national mall operator that owns the SoNo Collection in Norwalk, does not discuss specifics about its active security measures at its properties, according to Lindsay Kahn, a spokeswoman for the company.

We have a robust program in place that we continuously review, Kahn said, adding Were devastated when anything like this happens.

Lawlor, the UNH professor, recommended that customers remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement or store security. In addition, he noted that in Connecticut, residents can report their concerns about a person who may be a danger to themselves or others under the states Red Flag law, which allows authorities to temporarily seize their weapons pending judicial review.
UPDATE: May 10, 10:15 a.m.

HB 2744, the Texas House bill aimed at raising the legal purchase age for certain semi and automatic firearms from 18 to 21, has stalled in the House and is now unlikely to become law, according to a report from the Texas Tribune's Alejandro Serrano.

After unexpectedly clearing the committee stage in an 8-5 vote on Monday, the bill ran up against a crucial deadline: Thursday is the final day the House can pass bills, and the chamber's agenda must be set 36 hours before lawmakers convene, per The Texas Tribune's Serrano. HB 2744 had not been added to the House's agenda by 10 p.m. Tuesday, meaning it can't be scheduled for consideration by the chamber by the Thursday deadline for passing bills.

The Uvalde families supporting the bill vowed that HB 2744's likely expiration won't stop them from pushing for reforms. "This isn't over," Kimberly Mata-Rubio, whose 10-year-old daughter Alexandria "Lexi" Aniyah Rubio was killed in the shooting, told the Tribune. "We will regroup, re-strategize and come back stronger."

---End of Update---

A bill that would raise the legal purchase age for certain types of automatic firearms just cleared a big hurdle in the Texas House.

HB 2744, a bill that relatives of Uvalde shooting victims have been pushing for months, passed the Texas House's Community Safety Select Committee on Monday with an 8-5 vote. Two Republican representatives on the committee, Justin Holland and Sam Harless, broke with Republicans to vote in favor of the bill and advance it to the House floor, according to a Monday dispatch from the Texas Tribune's Alejandro Serrano and Eleanor Klibanoff.

The measure calls for criminal penalties for anyone who "intentionally or knowing sells, rents, leases, gives or offers to sell, rent, lease or give a club, location-restricted knife or firearms" to a child younger than 18 years of age. It likewise outlaws the selling, leasing or giving of semiautomatic firearms capable of accepting calibers larger than .22 to a person younger than 21 years of age.

The vote comes just two days after a gunman wielding an automatic weapon killed eight people and wounded seven others at a Dallas-area outlet mall--the latest mass shooting in a year already on pace to break records.

The Uvalde families had pushed the Republican chair of the committee, Rep. Guillen, to give the bill a vote in committee before a key Monday deadline.

"One year ago today, my daughter had her communion. About a month later, she was buried in that same dress, Javier Cazares, whose 9-year-old daughter Jacklyn was killed in the Uvalde shooting, said during an emotional press conference, per Serrano and Klibanoff. Mr. Guillen, and anybody else who is stopping this bill from passing, sad to say but more blood will be on your hands," Cazares continued.

The bill still faces a long path to becoming law: House Speaker Dade Phelan indicated that he doesn't believe HB 2744 has the votes to pass the House, according to the Tribune. Gov. Greg Abbott doubled down on his stance against any gun control measures during a press conference after this weekend's shooting.
Storm Prediction Ctr, Norman, OK Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH OUTLINE UPDATE FOR WS 197

NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER NORMAN OK

843 PM CDT SUN MAY 07 2023

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 197 REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 900 PM CDT

FOR THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS

TX

. TEXAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

ARCHER BAYLOR BORDEN

BROWN CALLAHAN COKE

COLEMAN CONCHO CROCKETT

EASTLAND FISHER FOARD

GARZA GLASSCOCK HARDEMAN

HASKELL HOWARD IRION

JONES KENT KING

KNOX MCCULLOCH MENARD

MITCHELL NOLAN REAGAN

RUNNELS SCHLEICHER SCURRY

SHACKELFORD STEPHENS STERLING

STONEWALL TAYLOR THROCKMORTON

TOM GREEN WICHITA WILBARGER

YOUNG

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Northeastern Nolan County in west central Texas...

Northern Taylor County in west central Texas...

* Until 1145 PM CDT.

* At 840 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain from Trent to Merkel to just north of Buffalo Gap. The

Heavy rainfall was moving east at 20 mph. Between 3 and 4 1/2

inches of rain have fallen. Be especially careful near Merkel

where radar has estimate 3 inches of rainfall in one hour. The

expected rainfall rate is 2.5 inches in 1 hour. Additional

rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area.

Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Abilene, Merkel, Tye, Buffalo Gap, Trent, View, Dyess Afb, Caps

and Potosi.

This includes the following highways...

Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 256 and 280.

This includes the following Low Water Crossings...

Texas Avenue at Arnold Boulevard, Craig Street at Catclaw Creek,

County Road 387 crossing Little Bitter Creek, crossings along County

Road 335, crossings along County Road 357, crossings along County

Road 283, crossings along County Road 400, County Road 150 crossing

Cedar Creek, crossings along County Road 127 and crossings along

County Road 410.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

CHILD ABDUCTION EMERGENCY

The following message is transmitted at the request of the Texas

Department of Public Safety.

THIS IS A CHILD ABDUCTION ALERT ISSUED BY THE TEXAS AMBER ALERT

NETWORK

THE SAN ANTONIO POLICE DEPARTMENT IS SEARCHING FOR JUELZ ROBINSON,

WHITE, MALE, 14 YEARS OLD, 05 FOOT 06 INCHES, 130 POUNDS, BLACK HAIR,

BROWN EYES, LAST SEEN WEARING A PAPERBOY HAT, BLACK THIN FRAME

GLASSES, A DARK COLORED T-SHIRT, BLACK NIKE SHORTS, AND SLIP ONS.

VICTIM WAS LAST SEEN AT 12 AM ON MAY FIRST TWENTY TWENTY THREE, AT

THE NINE HUNDRED BLOCK OF CLASSEN PASS, SAN ANTONIO, TX, ON FOOT.

LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS BELIEVE THIS CHILD TO BE IN GRAVE OR

IMMEDIATE DANGER.

IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION REGARDING THIS ABDUCTION, CALL THE SAN

ANTONIO POLICE DEPARTMENT AT 2 1 0 2 0 7 7 6 6 0.

NEWS MEDIA POINT OF CONTACT IS SAN ANTONIO POLICE DEPARTMENT AT 2 1 0

2 0 7 2 7 9 3.

END OF MESSAGE.

Department Of Public Safety.

THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE IS TRANSMITTED AT THE REQUEST OF THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY.

WHITE, MALE, 14 YEARS OLD, 05 FOOT 06 INCHES, 130 POUNDS, BLACK

HAIR, BROWN EYES, LAST SEEN WEARING A PAPERBOY HAT, BLACK THIN

FRAME GLASSES, A DARK COLORED T-SHIRT, BLACK NIKE SHORTS, AND SLIP

ONS.

VICTIM WAS LAST SEEN AT 12 AM ON MAY FIRST, TWENTY TWENTY THREE,

AT THE NINE HUNDRED BLOCK OF CLASSEN PASS, SAN ANTONIO, TX, ON

FOOT.

IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION REGARDING THIS ABDUCTION, CALL THE

SAN ANTONIO POLICE DEPARTMENT AT, 2 1 0, 2 0 7, 7 6 6 0.

NEWS MEDIA POINT OF CONTACT IS SAN ANTONIO POLICE DEPARTMENT AT

2 1 0, 2 0 7, 2 7 9 3.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX

402 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northeastern Bastrop

and central Lee Counties through 445 PM CDT...

At 402 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 8

miles northeast of Smithville, moving northeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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...

Giddings, Dime Box, Fedor, Paige, Lake Somerville State Park

Trailway, Serbin, Northrup, Loebau, Hills, Leo, Lincoln, Manheim,

Blue and Buescher State Park.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3028 9667 3025 9668 3025 9673 3021 9674

3004 9702 3005 9703 3002 9706 3005 9717

3040 9714 3034 9675 3032 9674 3032 9669

3030 9667 3029 9664

TIME...MOT...LOC 2102Z 218DEG 17KT 3009 9704

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida wearing a blue badge arrives at the airport in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, Sunday. Yonhap



By Kim Se-jeong



As Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida arrived at the airport in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, on Sunday and greeted Korean officials welcoming him, those watching on TV grew curious about a blue badge pinned to the right lapel of his suitcoat.



The badge was seen he visited the Seoul National Cemetery and the presidential office where he met his Korean counterpart President Yoon Suk Yeol.



The blue badge is a symbol of the Japanese citizens who were kidnapped by North Korean government agents. By wearing it, Kishida showed his solidarity with the families of the abductees in their fights to bring their missing family members home.



According to the Japanese foreign ministry website, the blue badge was made by a group of the abductees' family members, with the blue color representing the ocean that separates the abductees from the family members and the sky that could possibly connect them.



A total of 17 of its citizens were kidnapped by the North in the 1970s according to the Japanese foreign ministry. In 1987, allegations surfaced that the rogue state might have kidnapped them to train its spies in Japanese language and culture.



In 1991, the Japanese government officially demanded North Korea provide information about their whereabouts.



In 2002, five returned home on the occasion of the summit between then North Korean leader Kim Jong-il and then Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi. But, North Korea claimed it had kidnapped only 13  not 17  and eight had died.



The abduction issue remains unresolved and one of the biggest diplomatic hurdles between Japan and North Korea.



It is not the first time Kishida has worn the blue badge. He was also seen wearing it in March when Korean President Yoon visited Tokyo for a meeting.



His predecessors have also been seen wearing the blue badge.


WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

TORNADO WARNING

The National Weather Service in Austin San Antonio has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...

Central Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 515 PM CDT.

* At 443 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado

was located near Muldoon, or 7 miles southwest of La Grange, and is

nearly stationary.

HAZARD...Tornado and ping pong ball size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.

Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree

damage is likely.

* Locations impacted include...

La Grange, O'Quinn and Plum.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest

floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a

mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter

and protect yourself from flying debris.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern Jones

County through 515 PM CDT...

At 444 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over

Noodle, moving east at 10 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...

Hawley, Noodle, Hodges, Stith and Truby.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

LAT...LON 3256 10006 3263 10006 3267 9981 3253 9982

TIME...MOT...LOC 2144Z 277DEG 8KT 3260 10001

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

...THE TORNADO WARNING FOR EAST CENTRAL ORANGE COUNTY IS CANCELLED...

The tornadic thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out

of the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO BROWNSVILLE Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Brownsville has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Hidalgo County in Deep South Texas...

South central Starr County in Deep South Texas...

* Until 1045 PM CDT.

* At 1021 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Grulla

Middle School, or near Sullivan City, moving east at 35 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Mission, Palmview, Penitas, Sullivan City, La Joya, Palmhurst,

Garciasville, Los Ebanos, Sharyland and South McAllen.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Large hail and damaging winds and continuous cloud to ground

lightning is occurring with this storm. Move indoors immediately.

Lightning is one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can

hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

Northwestern Callahan County in west central Texas...

Northeastern Taylor County in west central Texas...

* Until 1115 PM CDT.

* At 1024 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Abilene,

moving east at 20 mph.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...

Clyde around 1055 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Impact

and Kirby Lake.

This includes Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 284 and 301.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1045 PM CDT

FOR SOUTHEASTERN CROCKETT COUNTY...

At 1025 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 15 miles northwest

of Juno, moving southeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and penny size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

southeastern Crockett County.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO DALLAS / FT. WORTH Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Fort Worth has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Central Palo Pinto County in north central Texas...

* Until 1015 PM CDT.

* At 932 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Palo Pinto,

or 12 miles west of Mineral Wells, moving northeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Mineral Wells, Graford, Palo Pinto, Possum Kingdom Lake,

Salesville, Oran, Lone Camp and Peadenville.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection get inside a sturdy structure and stay away from

windows.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 945 PM CDT

FOR WEST CENTRAL CALLAHAN AND EAST CENTRAL TAYLOR COUNTIES...

At 933 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Potosi, moving

east at 25 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of west

central Callahan and east central Taylor Counties, including the

following locations... Kirby Lake.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern Starr

County through 1000 PM CDT...

At 932 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Roma Park, or near Roma, moving east at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny size hail.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Locations impacted include...

Rio Grande City, Roma, Escobares, Garciasville, La Rosita, La Grulla,

La Victoria, Los Alvarez, Fort Ringgold County Park and Garceno.

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.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement

agency. They will relay your report to the National Weather Service

office in Brownsville.

LAT...LON 2645 9901 2646 9860 2626 9859 2624 9867

2626 9868 2627 9872 2629 9871 2630 9875

2631 9874 2633 9875 2633 9879 2637 9880

2635 9890 2639 9893 2637 9895 2640 9896

2639 9901 2641 9904 2640 9908 2643 9911

TIME...MOT...LOC 0232Z 267DEG 32KT 2631 9900

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Houston/Galveston TX

227 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northwestern Austin,

southeastern Burleson and central Washington Counties through 300 PM

CDT...

At 226 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Round Top, or 14 miles west of Brenham, moving north at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 30 mph and half inch 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...

Brenham, Somerville, Burton, Lake Somerville Dam, Lake Somerville

State Park & Trailway, Carmine, Lyons, Independence and Quarry.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3024 9673 3025 9669 3029 9666 3030 9664

3030 9667 3032 9669 3032 9674 3042 9673

3036 9631 3000 9645 3003 9662 3008 9663

3011 9663 3013 9665 3015 9665 3015 9668

3016 9669 3015 9671 3015 9675

TIME...MOT...LOC 1926Z 191DEG 19KT 3011 9662

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN

MAX WIND GUST...30 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Houston/Galveston TX

323 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southern Grimes,

southwestern Montgomery, central Waller and northwestern Harris

Counties through 400 PM CDT...

At 322 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 7

miles south of Pine Island, or 9 miles south of Prairie View, moving

north at 20 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...

Prairie View, Hockley, Waller, Pine Island and Monaville.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

LAT...LON 2985 9593 2991 9610 3024 9601 3014 9573

TIME...MOT...LOC 2022Z 201DEG 18KT 2994 9599

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Hardin County in southeastern Texas...

South Central Jasper County in southeastern Texas...

North Central Jefferson County in southeastern Texas...

Northwestern Orange County in southeastern Texas...

* Until 715 PM CDT.

* At 323 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Between 2 and 5 inches of rain

have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are

possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected

to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban

areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as

other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Beaumont, Lumberton, Silsbee, Kountze, Wildwood, Saratoga,

Evadale, Thicket, Bevil Oaks, Pine Forest, Lakeview, Honey Island,

Village Mills, Caney Head, Weiss Bluff and Votaw.

Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO MIDLAND/ODESSA Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Midland has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Eastern Pecos County in southwestern Texas...

* Until 645 PM CDT.

* At 614 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 17 miles north of

Sheffield, moving northeast at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Iraan and Iraan Municipal Airport.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO NORMAN Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Norman has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Central Knox County in northern Texas...

* Until 1100 PM CDT.

* At 747 PM CDT, doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Between 4 and 5 inches of rain

have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1.75 to 2.25 inches in

1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible

in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly.

HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban

areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as

other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

mainly rural areas of Central Knox County

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the

dangers of flooding.

Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law

enforcement and request they pass this information to the National

Weather Service when you can do so safely.

...FLOOD ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM CDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.

* WHERE...A portion of northwest Texas, including the following

county, King.

* WHEN...Until 900 PM CDT.

* IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 748 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to

thunderstorms. Minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly in the advisory area. Between 1.5 and 2.5 inches of

rain have fallen.

- Some locations that will experience flooding include...

mainly rural areas of Northeastern King County

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Jones County in west central Texas...

* Until 830 PM CDT.

* At 749 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Noodle,

moving east at 20 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...

Hawley around 825 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Hodges,

Stith and Truby.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Southeastern Taylor County in west central Texas...

North central Runnels County in west central Texas...

* At 751 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Drasco, or

near Bradshaw, moving northeast at 15 mph.

Bradshaw around 805 PM CDT.

Tuscola and Lawn around 830 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Lake

Abilene, Drasco, Camp Tonkawa and Ovalo.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service San Angelo TX

717 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR EAST CENTRAL IRION COUNTY IS

CANCELLED...

The severe thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out of

the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

west central Texas.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 730 PM CDT

FOR CENTRAL TOM GREEN COUNTY...

At 716 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Tankersley,

moving east at 25 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

central Tom Green County.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Foard,

north central Knox, southwestern Wilbarger and northwestern Baylor

Counties through 800 PM CDT...

At 719 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 7

miles southeast of Crowell, moving east at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel size hail.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Locations impacted include...

Crowell and Thalia.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3379 9971 3398 9973 3405 9927 3378 9925

TIME...MOT...LOC 0019Z 266DEG 19KT 3390 9964

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

East central Smith County in northeastern Texas...

West central Marion County in northeastern Texas...

Northwestern Harrison County in northeastern Texas...

Southern Upshur County in northeastern Texas...

Central Gregg County in northeastern Texas...

* Until 400 PM CDT.

* At 252 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Big Sandy, or

near Gladewater, moving east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and half dollar size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Longview, White Oak, Gladewater, Gilmer, Clarksville City, East

Mountain, Diana, West Mountain, Union Grove, Warren City, Pritchett

and Judson.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of south central Hardin

County through 330 PM CDT...

At 255 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 8

miles north of Sour Lake, moving south at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and nickel 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...

Sour Lake.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

LAT...LON 3034 9448 3031 9427 3017 9426 3017 9428

3014 9428 3012 9429 3013 9455

TIME...MOT...LOC 1955Z 007DEG 14KT 3026 9439

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

312 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR EAST CENTRAL SMITH COUNTY IS

CANCELLED...

The severe thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out of

the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 400 PM CDT

FOR WEST CENTRAL MARION...NORTHWESTERN HARRISON...SOUTHEASTERN UPSHUR

AND CENTRAL GREGG COUNTIES...

At 311 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over West Mountain,

or near Gladewater, moving east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

Locations impacted include...

Longview, White Oak, Gladewater, Gilmer, Clarksville City, East

Mountain, Diana, West Mountain, Union Grove, Warren City, Pritchett

and Judson.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 330 PM CDT FOR

SOUTHEASTERN HARDIN COUNTY...

At 312 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado

was located near Bevil Oaks, or 7 miles west of Lumberton, moving

east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Tornado and two inch hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage

to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is

likely.

Lumberton.

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile

home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and

protect yourself from flying debris.

Heavy rainfall may hide this tornado. Do not wait to see or hear the

tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

FOR EASTERN FAYETTE COUNTY...

At 313 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Fayetteville,

or near La Grange, moving north at 20 mph.

La Grange, Fayetteville, Round Top, Carmine, Rutersville, Warrenton,

Ledbetter, Waldeck, Ellinger, Walhalla, Willow Springs, Ammannsville,

Winedale, Rek Hill, Mullins Prairie, Nechanitz and Holman.

To report severe weather contact your nearest law enforcement agency.

They will send your report to the National Weather Service office in

Austin San Antonio.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern

Burleson, southern Grimes, southeastern Brazos, northeastern

Washington and northwestern Waller Counties through 400 PM CDT...

At 316 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 7

miles southwest of Washington, or 11 miles northeast of Brenham,

moving northeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and penny size hail.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Southeastern College Station, Navasota, Washington, Millican,

Anderson and Independence.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

LAT...LON 3013 9613 3019 9634 3024 9642 3059 9624

3043 9587

TIME...MOT...LOC 2016Z 209DEG 6KT 3026 9624

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR SOUTHWESTERN GRIMES...

SOUTHEASTERN BRAZOS...NORTHEASTERN WASHINGTON AND NORTHWESTERN WALLER

COUNTIES IS CANCELLED...

The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe

limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property.

Therefore, the warning has been cancelled. However small hail and

heavy rain are still possible with this thunderstorm.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko Kishida arrive at Seoul National Cemetery, Sunday. AP-Yonhap



Experts welcome Japan's decision to allow Korean inspection of Fukushima plant



By Jung Min-ho



Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on Sunday that he felt "strong pain" in his heart when he thought of the suffering of the Korean victims of forced labor during his country's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.



In carefully selected words, he expressed sympathy for the Koreans at a press conference in Seoul after his summit with President Yoon Suk Yeol, acknowledging "the extreme difficulty and sorrow that many people had to suffer under the harsh environment in those days."



Kishida's remarks suggest both his determination to improve Korea-Japan relations and how far he was willing to go in that effort, given his political climate at home, according to experts, Monday.



"In his famous 2015 address [marking 70 years since Japan's defeat in World War II], former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said his administration would not let their future generations 'be predestined to apologize'  a position from which Kishida is not free. This is why Kishida said he would carry forward the positions on colonial-era history of Japan's previous cabinets during Yoon's visit to Japan in March," Shin Kak-soo, former vice foreign minister and former Korean ambassador to Japan, told The Korea Times. "In that sense, his comment this time is a step forward."





A crowd welcomes visiting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in front of the presidential office in Seoul, Sunday. AP-Yonhap







The former ambassador said that Kishida  under pressure from both Korea and the conservative wing of his ruling Liberal Democratic Party in Japan, which rejects any form of concession  appeared to have expressed his stance by sophisticatedly using restrained terms.



"From what I heard, Japan's foreign ministry opposed the idea [of expressing his sympathy]. That means Kishida made his own political decision," he added.



Jin Chang-soo, an expert on Japan at the Sejong Institute, a think tank, agreed.



"There is a wide political consensus in Japan that it should stop apologizing to Koreans over historical issues," Jin said. "Given the situation, I think Kishida's remarks, though insufficient, helped make progress in rapprochement."



Relations between the two countries deteriorated in the past few years over renewed historical disputes following South Korean court rulings on the victims of Japan's wartime sex slavery and forced labor. The Yoon administration's efforts in the past year to repair the relationship over such issues have faced strong criticism at home, with many claiming he gave too much in return for too little.





Protesters with images of President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stage a rally to oppose a visit by the latter in front of the presidential office in Seoul, Sunday. AP-Yonhap
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

338 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR WEST CENTRAL MARION...

NORTHWESTERN HARRISON...SOUTHEASTERN UPSHUR AND CENTRAL GREGG

COUNTIES IS CANCELLED...

The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe

limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property.

Therefore, the warning has been cancelled. However heavy rain is

still possible with these thunderstorms.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement

agency. They will relay your report to the National Weather Service

Shreveport.

...THE TORNADO WARNING FOR NORTHWESTERN JEFFERSON...SOUTHEASTERN

HARDIN AND WEST CENTRAL ORANGE COUNTIES WILL EXPIRE AT 345 PM CDT...

limits, and no longer appears capable of producing a tornado.

Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. However small hail

and gusty winds are still possible with this thunderstorm.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of central Marion and

northeastern Harrison Counties through 430 PM CDT...

At 341 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm just

southwest of Jefferson, or 13 miles north of Marshall, moving east

at 15 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...

Jefferson, Berea and Woodlawn.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3267 9448 3279 9448 3286 9418 3261 9418

TIME...MOT...LOC 2040Z 269DEG 11KT 3272 9441

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 400 PM CDT

FOR NORTHEASTERN FAYETTE COUNTY...

At 341 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over La Grange,

moving north at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

La Grange, Round Top, Carmine, Walhalla, Rutersville, Warrenton,

Ledbetter, Mullins Prairie, Nechanitz and Waldeck.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

To report severe weather contact your nearest law enforcement agency.

They will send your report to the National Weather Service office in

Austin San Antonio.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
If youve been reading a lot about quantum computing recently, you likely have a few questions.

Some of those questions may be about how quantum computing works. After all, it is very different from other kinds of computing. (You can learn a little about the basics in the recent CIO article Are you ready for quantum computing?)

You probably have one other very important question: What can quantum computing do for my business?

Until recently, most of the conversation about quantum computing has been academic. Researchers have been focused on getting the technology to work and engineers have been building systems with more qubits.

Now the emphasis is starting to shift to actual use cases as organizations take a closer look at quantum.

In a recent conversation, Victor Fong, Distinguished Engineer at Dell, and Michael Robillard, Sr. Distinguished Engineer at Dell, offered their thoughts on what quantum computing can do for businesses. The short answer is that quantum acts as an accelerator, allowing computers to complete some kinds of processing much more quickly than has ever been possible before.

To understand what that means, Fong and Robillard recommend that organizations get started by examining the technology. They laid out three steps they believe companies should be taking today:

1. Discover the potential of quantum computing

You may not have quantum computing experts on your staff today. Thats okay because your competitors almost certainly dont have any quantum experts either. Only a small group of people currently have the expertise to be considered true experts in quantum computing.

Fortunately, you dont have to be an expert to get started.

The first stage of preparing your organization for quantum computing is to do some foundational research. Look up some introductory guides. Read some articles. If you dont know where to begin, Dell has a Quantum Computing Resource Center with white papers, analyst reports and recent news about quantum.

Be prepared to be a little confused at first.

Quantum computing is fundamentally different from the classical computers you use every day. Quantum computers rely on the principles of quantum mechanics, which Albert Einstein once described as spooky action at a distance. Quantum computing might seem strange  maybe even spooky  at first. But it operates by some basic rules that you can understand.

The computer hardware is also quite a bit different than what youre used to. Quantum computers store information in qubits. Qubits operate at atomic scale, which means they are very, very small. They are also quite delicate. Small changes in the environment, referred to as noise, can easily disrupt the system enough that it cannot function as intended.

Developing and deploying systems built around these minuscule, sensitive parts is both difficult and expensive. But engineers are also developing simulators that mimic how quantum computers work. These simulators can be used to experiment with quantum.

2. Identify some quantum use cases for your organization

Once you understand the basics of quantum computing, youll be ready to start brainstorming ways that your organization can use the technology.

Not every computing problem is well-suited to quantum processing. You wouldnt want to use a quantum computer to do any kind of calculation that has one right answer. For example, you shouldnt use a quantum computer to calculate your tax bill or process your payroll.

On the other hand, quantum computers can be very good at solving optimization problems. If you need to choose the best answer from a group of possible right answers, quantum computing may be ideal.

Some organizations are already experimenting with quantum computing for a variety of use cases:

Logistics and transportation firms are trying quantum computing as a way to find the most fuel-efficient, fastest and safest routes to deliver cargo and passengers while accounting for weather and traffic.

Financial firms want quantum computing to optimize their portfolios and maximize returns while mitigating risk.

Chemical and materials manufacturers seek to harness the power of quantum computing to come up with new formulas and model how a materials properties will change under various conditions.

Drug companies want quantum computing to develop new treatments and vaccines for debilitating illnesses.

Auto manufacturers are testing quantum computing to help optimize the large batteries necessary for electric vehicles.

Technology companies of all kinds are experimenting to help develop new products and services or optimize those they already offer.

Even if you arent in one of these industries, you probably have similar use cases where quantum computing would be helpful. The key is to look for situations that are difficult to model because of a large number of variables. You also want use cases that are intrinsic to your business, where improving operations would have a large impact on your bottom line.

3. Deploy a test case.

Believe it or not, its not too early to start experimenting with quantum computing.

Anyone can download the open source Qiskit software development kit (SDK) that allows you to write code that will run on quantum systems.

A few vendors already offer access to quantum systems, although using these systems for experimentation can become expensive quickly.

Many people find it more affordable to begin by testing on a simulator. Quantum simulators use classical computing hardware to simulate the operation of quantum systems. They allow engineers to keep costs low while perfecting the code that they want to run on the quantum system. Simulators can also alleviate some data privacy concerns, and they eliminate the previously mentioned problem of quantum noise.

Finding the right tool for the job

Different kinds of computers are a little like the different kinds of saws you might use for woodworking. You can do most kinds of cutting with a standard circular saw. In the same way, a classical computer can do most kinds of calculations.

But some kinds of woodworking  like intricate scrollwork  are almost impossible to do with a circular saw. For that, you would want a jigsaw or even a scroll saw. And while you can do miter cuts with a circular saw, its a lot easier with a miter saw. A quantum computer should be thought of as a specialized tool. It wont ever replace classic computing, but it makes some specialized tasks a whole lot faster and easier.

While engineers have made a lot of progress designing and building quantum computers, were still in the early days of the quantum era. Right now, quantum computing isnt right for a lot of situations.

But as time goes on and the technology improves, quantum computing will become a better choice more often. And organizations that have already begun experimenting with the technology will have a head start.

Thats why now is the time to get started  learn more about quantum computing, identify test cases and begin to experiment.

***

Read more about Dell Technologies Quantum Computing here.

Read more about Intel Quantum Computing here.
Three Aegis-equipped destroyers  Korea's Yulgok Yi I, front, the Benfold, center, of the U.S. Navy and the JS Atago of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force  sail in waters off Korea's east coast in this April 17 photo released by the Navy. Yonhap



Korea plans to hold a multinational maritime exercise later this month as part of an international initiative aimed at stopping transfers of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), a defense ministry official said Monday.



The country plans to stage the Eastern Endeavor 23 exercise in an effort to strengthen capabilities to counter WMD proliferation when it hosts the high-level meeting of the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) this month.



"Our military is planning a combined maritime interdiction exercise with some countries on the occasion of the high-level PSI meeting set to open in Korea in late May for the first time," the official said.



The official added that details of the exercise, such as participating countries, have yet to be finalized. The drills, however, are expected to focus on maritime interception and seizure operations.



Launched in 2003, PSI is a global effort aimed at stopping the trafficking of WMDs, their delivery systems, and related materials.



The United States initiated the Asia-Pacific PSI exercises in 2014 and participating countries have hosted their own exercises, like Eastern Endeavor in Korea, Pacific Protector in Australia and Pacific Shield in Japan.



Last year, the U.S. hosted the five-day Fortune Guard 22 in Honolulu in September, which brought together 21 countries, including Korea. (Yonhap)


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This photo shows Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup, right, speaking at a parliamentary session at the National Assembly in western Seoul, April 6. Yonhap



South Korean Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup met with a group of ambassadors from Central and South America on Monday to discuss defense and arms industry cooperation, his ministry said.



Lee met the envoys from 16 countries, including Argentina, Brazil and Chile, during a gathering of the Group of Latin America and the Caribbean, a U.N. regional group, at a hotel in central Seoul, according to the ministry.



In the meeting, Lee described Central and South America as a major region for cooperation, and vowed to come up with more measures for defense cooperation, such as creating institutional groundwork for defense cooperation and regular high-level exchange between defense officials, it said.



The envoys welcomed Seoul's efforts for defense cooperation with their countries, according to the ministry.



Lee also explained Seoul's efforts for the denuclearization of North Korea and measures to deter its provocations, and requested support from the countries, it added.



The minister and the envoys also discussed common security threats faced by South Korea and Central and South America in the Indo-Pacific region, such as climate change, cyber threats and terrorism. (Yonhap)


Do you give Donald Trump airtime or ignore him? Fact-check him in real time or let him discredit himself? Pick apart his most noxious ideas or hope they go away?

Welcome to the central question of political journalism in 2024. And 2020. And 2016, too.

The question of how, or whether, to cover the candidacy of Donald J. Trump is among the most circular of our industry. It swings back and forth between those who say hes newsworthy and warrants the scrutiny and those who say he shouldnt be platformed, given his dangerous record of lies and incitement.

Whats not said, at least not enough, is that Trump will be on CNN on Wednesday night because Trump and the national mediastill, despite everything we have learnedare convinced they desperately need each other. Trump, clearly, relishes the attention and the legitimacy hell get from being treated as a serious candidate only weeks after he was arrested and indicted in a New York courtroom. He may even enjoy the irony of appearing on CNN, a network he has long derided and threatened and undercut, as payback to Fox News, which seems to have strayed from its usual obedience and is in the middle of a meltdown following the Dominion Voting Systems verdict.

But CNN believes it needs Trump, too, and not just to jump-start a presidential-election season that proved lucrative for television in the past two cycles, though there is that. CNN also has made clear that it will use the Trump forum as evidence of its new nonpartisan bona fides.

Listen to David Zaslav, the CEO of CNNs parent company, defending the decision to put Trump on in prime time. We are a divided government. We need to hear both voices, Zaslav told CNBC. Thats what you see. Republicans are on the air on CNN, Democrats are on the air. All voices should be heard.

Not a wildly controversial statement, but enoughwhen combined with the recent sacking of Don Lemonto signal an important shift in tone at CNN, and maybe even a commercial opportunity to tack against MSNBC, its biggest rival. Chris Licht, the CNN boss, has signaled over and over again that he thinks the network is most effective when it sticks to the middle of the road. (In a speech and a piece in the Washington Post in April, Marty Baron, the papers former editor, hit some of the same notes, calling for a return to traditional journalistic objectivity, which prompted pushback.)

All of this marks the intensification of a battle inside journalism about how to cover a candidate and a party that have threatened American democracy. Younger journalists dont share the caution of their bosses, and are likely to rebel.

But so far, the fight is an internal one. Ask a relative who lives outside the media bubble about objectivity and youll be met with a blank stare. We never come out looking great when we become the story. The debate can move forward only when we stop sniping at each other, and start thinking about how to connect with our audiences. What do they care about? How do we report stories that resonate with them? How can we convey the complexity and the nuance of the moment were in?

The answer lies not in berating CNNone former MSNBC anchor called the network a political and journalistic whorehousenor in positioning the network in a new way in a play for ratings. The answer, instead, lies in thinking candidly and thoroughly about how to capture and convey this perilous time. What can we learn from history and from antidemocratic movements in other parts of the world? What kind of journalism has tended to move and motivate people, rather than simply enraging them? What are the stories that the American people still need to know about Trump and his rivals but have yet to read or watch?

Its clear to me that CNN and many other mainstream media outlets have not learned their lessons from covering Trump in 2016, Tara Setmayer, a senior adviser to the Lincoln Project, told The Guardian in a recent piece. It seems as though the political media cannot quit him. It is 2016 political Groundhog Day.

Kyle Pope is the editor in chief and publisher of the Columbia Journalism Review.
Malik Woodard asked his doctor not to look at records of the treatment he received from a psychologist while recovering from crush injuries that happened when a one-ton battery cabinet fell on him while at work.

Dr. Victor Chin obtained the treatment records anyway by asking a medical case manager with the workers compensation insurer for Woodards employer. When Woodard obtained a court order requiring Chin to return those records or destroy them, Chin appealed.

A divided Alabama Supreme Court ruled Friday that Chin and his practice, Sportsmed Occupational Specialists, must comply with the court order. In a 6-2 ruling, the high court also rejected a motion by Chin and Sportsmed to invoke Alabamas medical malpractice law and change the venue of the civil case to the location where the injury occurred.

The majority rejected Chin and Sportsmeds arguments that they need to retain notes that Chin took from the records to defend himself against Woodards claims of breach of contract, fraud, invasion of privacy, the tort of outrage and civil conspiracy.

Although those notes may be relevant to the Sportsmed defendants defense, it is not at all clear from the Sportsmed defendants petition and reply brief that those notes (and any testimony based on them) are the only evidence that could be presented at trial to show Dr. Chins reasons for requesting the psychological records, the majority opinion says. Nor is it clear that Dr. Chins reasons would be the central factual issue at trial; it appears that other issues, such as whether Woodard consented to Dr. Chins obtaining the records, could be equally or more significant.

Woodard was injured while trying to install the cabinet that crushed him in March 2018. He saw Chin, a pain-management specialist, in October 2019 after undergoing emergency surgery and followup treatment with a psychologist. He signed a medical-records release form that generally authorized other health providers to share medical records with Chin.

During the appointment, Chin asked Woodard for his consent to review the records from the psychologist. Woodard refused, but Chin obtained the records from the case manager anyway.

When Woodard found out, he filed a lawsuit in Jefferson Circuit Court. Chin and Sportsmed filed a motion seeking to change the venue to Madison Circuit Court, noting that the Alabama Medical Liability Act requires any action alleging damages against a health care provider based on a breach of the standard of care must be brought in the county where the alleged breach occurred.

Woodard filed a motion seeking a protective order prohibiting Chin and Sportsmed from disclosing psychological records in discovery or using them at trial. He asked the court to order Chin and Sportsmed to destroy the records or return them.

The Jefferson County court granted Woodards motion and denied the motion by Chin and Sportsmed. The Supreme Court accepted an appeal.

The majority said to invoke the Medical Liability Act, the defendants had two options: They could assert that the record did not support an inference that Chin had no medical reason to request the psychology records, or they could submit affidavit evidence that Chin did have a medical reason.

Chin and Sportsmed did neither. Instead, they argued that a change of venue was appropriate because the alleged harm occurred in the course of medical treatment.

The Supreme Court said it rejected the use of time-and-place to invoke the provisions of the Medical Liability Act in a 2006 case, Ex parte Addiction & Mental Health Servs., Inc. The court ruled that the liability act did not apply to a lawsuit filed by a patient whose psychological records were dropped on the floor where they were seen by others because the injury was not medical in nature.

The majority said Chin and Sportsmed also failed to make a convincing argument that they would be unable to defend themselves against Woodards lawsuit unless they retained a copy of the psychology records.

Justices Greg Cook and William B. Sellers dissented. Cook said that the evidence clearly showed that Chin requested the records in order to treat Woodard, so the change of venue was appropriate. He said the Circuit Court had not authority to order the return or destruction of records that Chin possessed before a lawsuit was filed.
HONOLULU (AP)  An investigation found that a spill of about 1,300 gallons of fire suppressant at a fuel facility in Hawaii was caused by a maintenance contractor improperly installing an air vacuum valve, U.S. military officials said Friday.

Aqueous Film Forming Foam, which is used to suppress fires caused by flammable liquids, contain PFAS, a class of chemicals that are slow to degrade in the environment.

The firefighting foam liquid concentrate was spilled in November at the Red Hill Bulk Storage Facility near Pearl Harbor. The concentrate pooled on the floor inside the facility and then seeped under a door and onto a paved access road and soil, the military said.

The contractor improperly installed an air vacuum valve to the foam system in April 2022, the military said in a statement. The individual also failed to disable the foam concentrate pumps from automatically starting prior to conducting fire suppression system testing on Nov. 29, 2022, which cause the uncontrolled discharge.

The statement said, stricter safeguards and more assertive Navy oversight should have been in place to reduce the risk of this type of mishap.

The spills have contributed to distrust of the military in the community.

Navy Vice Adm. John Wade apologized at a news conference announcing the findings of the investigation into the firefighting foam spill, Hawaii News Now reported.

Navy groundwater monitoring sample results in the affected area after the November spill showed no exceedances of PFAS based on state and federal screening levels, the military said.

PFAS  an abbreviation for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances  were developed as coatings to protect consumer goods from stains, water and corrosion. Studies of lab animals given large amounts of PFAS have found that some of the chemicals may affect growth and development, reproduction, thyroid function, the immune system and the liver.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (AP)  A Southern California County and insurers paid $1.1 million to resolve a ransomware attack on a law enforcement computer network, Southern California News Group reported.

The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department announced in April that a network disruption was being investigated by information technology staff and forensic specialists, and that the FBI and Department of Homeland Security were notified.

County spokesperson David Wert said the county paid $511,852 and the remainder was covered by insurance, the news group reported Thursday.

The decision whether to render payment was the subject of careful consideration,  Wert said.

The Los Angeles Times reported that law enforcement sources, who were not identified, said the hackers work out of Eastern Europe. They have ties to a larger network of Russian hacking operations that regularly target U.S. entities and extort payouts that are designed to be untraceable, the Times said.

Sheriffs Department spokesperson Gloria Huerta said an investigation is continuing to try to determine whether any information was stolen and whether the ransom payment can be traced to identify the hacker.

Sheriff Shannon Dicus said this week that public safety wasnt compromised by the ransomware attack but it hindered some tasks.

Deputies, for example, could not access a system that provides information on whether a person is wanted for crimes elsewhere in the country, so they had to request that other agencies make the record checks, Dicus said.
PARMA, Ohio -- Known for 1980s feature films Pretty in Pink and Less Than Zero, Andrew McCarthy has never visited Northeast Ohio.

That changes next week when the actor/author, as part of the Cuyahoga County Public Librarys Beyond the Book Jacket author series, is scheduled to appear at a sold-out May 15 event at the Parma-Snow Branch.

The three-time New York Times bestselling author is currently supporting his latest effort, Walking With Sam: A Father, A Son, And Five Hundred Miles Across Spain.

I walked the Camino de Santiago 25 years ago, said McCarthy, calling from New York City. It was a real life-changer for me. It sort of changed my place in the world.

I always wanted to do it again. My son was leaving home and embarking on his own life, so I wanted to sort of connect with him as adults as opposed to the parent-child dynamic.

The father-and-son journey covered much more than the 500-mile trail: It included honest conversations over the five weeks about divorce, school trauma, McCarthys difficult relationship with his own father and fame.

All youre doing all day is walking, finding food and finding places to sleep, which are easy to do on the Camino, he said. The idea is youre spending all of your time just walking, which I think is a great panacea for what ails us mentally, emotionally and physically.

When I first walked the Camino de Santiago, I discovered in a word how much fear had dominated my life, and it liberated me from that to a great degree.

So I knew doing it again all these years later would offer up something. I didnt know what, but I knew it would be an opportunity to sort of get to know my son.

In addition to a successful acting career, first as a member of the famed Brat Pack of the 80s, McCarthy is also an award-winning travel writer who served for a dozen years as an editor-at-large at National Geographic Traveler magazine.

While the actor said he never envisioned that his career would take him into the worlds of publishing and travel journalism, he noted a certain amount of satisfaction about his choices.

Cuyahoga County Public Library is located at 2121 Snow Road in Parma. (John Benson/cleveland.com)

As far as his upcoming visit to Parma, McCarthy is excited to talk to audiences about his books, as well as his movie career -- which invariably will bring up director John Hughes.

Those movies took young people seriously for the first time in a real way that a lot of movies hadnt up to that point, McCarthy said.

People come up to me all of the time about those movies. When they start talking, their eyes kind of glaze over in that certain way -- I realize very quickly theyre talking about their own youth.

Its like all of the members of the Brat Pack and that generation of actors are avatars for this certain generations youth. A certain demographic of a certain generation sees me as their own youth.

It took me years to realize that was a beautiful thing.

Read more news from the Parma Sun Post.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  The number of people who want to serve and protect is shrinking in Cleveland.

The citys police academy has just nine recruits in its latest class, a far cry from when the city hired 87 academy graduates in 2000, according to police records.

The class is the smallest in 25 years. It underscores a nationwide trend in which fewer men and women are seeking to make law enforcement a career.

The drop at the academy comes as the department is more than 200 officers short of the citys budgeted number of 1,498, and it is more than 400 shy of the budgeted rosters of recent years. Scores of officers have retired or fled to suburban departments for higher pay and quieter shifts.

The city has pushed to draw more recruits, but it has had little success. Twenty years ago, it faced the opposite problem.

We had young, qualified men and women stepping forward to become police officers who did not make the cut simply because we had more applicants than we had roles for them to fill, said Martin Flask, the citys police chief from 1999 to 2001 and its safety director from 2006 to 2014.

cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer obtained numbers from the city that show the downward trend. In August 1999, 68 potential officers attended training classes, and 59 graduated. The following year, the department had 101 students in an academy class, and 87 graduated.

Last year, the department brought in 20 prospective officers, and 17 graduated. A class of 13 that began in December is continuing. The latest academy session, which started last month, has just nine, police said.

There are going to be scary times for the city, said Jeff Follmer, the president of the Cleveland Police Patrolmens Association, which represents rank-and-file officers. Its a national problem. But the city is going to have to do more in the recruitment game.

Capt. James OMalley is a fourth-generation Cleveland police officer and the president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 8, which represents supervisors. He agreed with Follmer.

The inability to recruit officers takes its toll, OMalley said.

Imagine going to work and not knowing until the end of your shift that you cant leave, he said in an email. Then this stress happens over and over and over again. Working a zone car in Cleveland is a dangerous, stressful job. Not having proper relief is difficult. It can lead to errors in judgment and accidents.

The reasons for the drop in recruits are many, officials said. Like Follmer and OMalley, Michael Polensek, the chairman of Cleveland City Councils Public Safety Committee, has said the city needs to do more to market and draw potential applicants to the department.

Mayor Justin Bibb, in his State of the City speech last month, said Cleveland will push to interest more youths and teens in a career in law enforcement. cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer reached out to the Bibb administration for details about the new initiative.

A survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police showed that the long hiring process often contributes to the low number of applicants. Also, many young people do not want to work long hours, often with mandated overtime, or face childcare challenges.

The survey revealed that the low number of applicants for police positions will have a direct impact on communities. Residents will experience longer waits when they call for help. Fewer crimes will be solved, according to the report, and officers will experience burnout.

Brandon Kooi, a criminal justice professor at Aurora University in Illinois, said the struggle to recruit officers impacts departments across the country. He said many cities, such as Cleveland, have been hit by retirements. Last year, 87 officers retired, and 26 have stepped away so far this year, according to Sgt. Jennifer Ciaccia, the departments spokesperson.

A major issue, however, has been the intense scrutiny officers have faced, Kooi said.

The largest negative impact on recruitment has been ongoing videos showing police use of force, Kooi wrote in an email to cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer. Very few citizens want to join a profession that is vilified by their community, and little is being done to demonstrate the significant problem-solving capabilities that police agencies can offer with the right leaders in place.

In recent years, cities and counties have spent millions of dollars on body cameras for officers, a move that offers transparency for residents. In some instances, the videos have shown officers brutally attacking residents.

Some examples include Memphis police officers beating Tyre Nichols to death in January and Minneapolis patrolmen killing George Floyd in May 2020.

In the past, Flask said, marketing techniques also helped with recruitment. The department used RTA bus wraps, billboards, radio spots and signage in storefronts to attract people to careers in law enforcement. Those kinds of recruitment methods gained the attention of potential candidates, as well as parents and grandparents who would encourage their children and grandchildren to consider a job with the police department, Flask said.

But Flask said the greatest recruitment tool is the work of officers.

The safety director (Karrie Howard) and police chief (Wayne Drummond) should challenge individual officers to interact, identify and recruit someone for the division, Flask said. And if they find a candidate who successfully completes the academy, the officers who recruited the person should be rewarded monetarily or receive compensatory time off.

The city has pushed a police explorer program to youths 14 to 20 who are seeking opportunities in law enforcement. It offers hands-on training related to police work and gives participants a chance to train with police officers and learn techniques with hope that they will consider joining the division.

Kooi said departments should also make greater efforts to hire women and minorities.

Too often physical requirements are found to have a discouraging impact on female recruits and academy attrition without any evidence that these requirements improve officer performance, Kooi added.

The department has 220 women officers, Ciaccia said.

The recruiting issues  and the solutions to fix them  go beyond Cleveland.

Who wants to go into a field where youre criticized for every mistake you make? OMalley said We are human. Mistakes happen, and yes, there are officers who violate the law and policy, but they are held accountable for that. A message of police are all bad that has been expressed is not the answer. Society change has to be part of the solution.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Edwins Leadership and Restaurant Institutes annual La Bastille party is coming up.

The festive party-dinner-fundraiser is 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 15, at Edwins Second Chance Life Skills Center.

It features French-Mediterranean fare, open bar, and cigar and spirits lounge.

Organizers say typical attire for La Bastille is festive casual; dress for your comfort. The event includes complimentary valet, live music, live and silent auctions, raffles and more.

Brandon Chrostowski hires and trains recently released incarcerated individuals to work at Edwins, his French restaurant in Shaker Square. The life-skills center supports the workers, who are instructed in all aspects of dining at a French restaurant, from cooking to wine and more, as well as the different jobs found in an affiliated bakery and butcher shop.

Bastille Day, which marks the fall of an infamous prison in France in 1789, is celebrated annually as a national holiday in France on July 14. Chrostowski, a trained chef and sommelier, worked for while in France.

The apres la fete  after-party  will include music, small bites, craft cocktails and casino games from 10 p.m. to midnight at edwins too.

Tickets are available online. La Bastille admission is $150. La Bastille and apres la fete is $200. Tickets for apres la fete are $75.

The life-skills center is at 2910 South Moreland Blvd., Cleveland. Edwins too is at 13220 Shaker Square.

I am on cleveland.coms life and culture team and cover food, beer, wine and sports-related topics. If you want to see my stories, heres a directory on cleveland.com. Bill Wills of WTAM-1100 and I talk food and drink usually at 8:20 a.m. Thursday morning. Twitter: @mbona30.

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Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida waves before leaving South Korea at Seoul Air Base in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, Monday. Yonhap



Including Japan in S. Korea-US NCG elusive: expert



By Nam Hyun-woo



The leaders of South Korea and Japan have opened up the possibility of forming a stronger trilateral security apparatus between Seoul, Tokyo and Washington during their next three-way meeting, prompting speculation that the three countries will likely engage in relevant talks later this month in Hiroshima, where a Group of Seven summit is scheduled to take place from May 19 to 21.



During a joint press conference after the South Korea-Japan summit in Seoul, Sunday, President Yoon Suk Yeol said, "The Washington Declaration is an agreement reached between [South] Korea and the United States, but it does not rule out Japan from participating in the forum."



The Washington Declaration is a document that was agreed upon by Yoon and U.S. President Joe Biden last month, in which the two countries would set up a new Seoul-Washington Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) to give South Korea more insight into U.S. nuclear planning and execution to deter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.



"The Washington Declaration is not completed yet and its content should be filled in through continued discussions in the process of joint planning and execution. Once this gets on the right track and Japan is ready for this in terms of its relations with the U.S., I'm sure that we can cooperate at any time," Yoon added.





President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the presidential office in Yongsan District, Seoul, Sunday. Yonhap



His remarks are interpreted as Korea's approval of Japan joining the Seoul-Washington NCG, meaning the respective extended deterrence consultative body of Seoul-Washington and Tokyo-Washington could be merged, or a new body involving all three countries could be established.



While Seoul and Washington decided to have the NCG serve as the top consultative body to discuss extended U.S. deterrence against Pyongyang's nuclear threats, Japan and the U.S. have been operating the Extended Deterrence Dialogue (EDD) since 2010. However, Japan's presence in the EDD is known to be weaker than the level of joint planning.



If Japan joins the Seoul-Washington NCG, the competitive dynamics in Northeast Asia will intensify, as South Korea, Japan and the U.S. strengthen their security cooperation based on nuclear planning and extended deterrence against three nuclear states  North Korea, Russia and China.



However, experts said such prospects remain elusive, although the three allies could begin talks to form a new consultative body at the trilateral summit in Hiroshima.




CLYDE, Ohio  A 69-year-old pilot was seriously injured Saturday when his plane crashed into a Sandusky County field after developing engine trouble, authorities say.

Richard Hines, of Port Clinton, was flown by helicopter to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo following the crash, according to the State Highway Patrol. He reportedly was in stable condition.

The crash occurred just before 1 p.m., the patrol says in a news release. Hines was piloting a 1964 Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee when the plane started having engine trouble. He tried to return to Sandusky County Regional Airport but went down in a field about a half-mile northeast of the airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the Highway Patrol are investigating the crash.
MADISON, Wis.  A Wisconsin judge plans to order the Wisconsin Elections Commission to rehear a complaint against fake electors who sought to cast electorial ballots for former President Donald Trump  but this time without one of the fake electors participating.

Judge Frank Remington of Dane County Circuit Court said the commission must consider the complaint from a Madison-based law firm that seeks a declaration that the fake electors broke the law when they sought to cast electoral ballots for Trump even though Trump lost the state to President Joe Biden, the Associated Press reported.

One of those fake electors was Robert Spindell, a Republican member of the Wisconsin Elections Commission. The panel, comprised of three Republicans and three Democrats, oversees elections in the state.

Law Forward argued that Republicans illegally posed as Wisconsin electors in an attempt to convince the U.S. House of Representatives to declare that Trump won Wisconsin in 2020.

The elections commission voted unanimously in March 2022 to reject the complaint, saying that Republicans who attempted to cast the states 10 electoral college votes for Trump did not break any election laws, according to AP. Spindell did not recuse himself from considering the complaint, even though he voted as one of the fake GOP electors.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice came to the same conclusion, holding that Republicans were trying to preserve Trumps legal standing as courts were deciding whether he or Biden won the 2020 presidential vote in Wisconsin by 21,000 votes, AP said.

That is the same argument that Trump allies and the fake electors from Wisconsin have made, including in testimony to the Jan. 6 committee.

Prior to Remingtons announcement, the elections commission, Spindell and the plaintiff, liberal law firm Law Forward, had agreed that the matter should be reheard.

Remington said during oral arguments Monday that given their agreement, he would formally write an order as soon as next week to vacate the commissions rejection of the complaint against the fake electors and to require reconsider without Spindell.

Surprise, surprise, Im coming to the same conclusion, as all the parties have, that the appropriate remedy is to vacate the decision of the WEC and remand it back for further proceedings, which dont include Commissioner Spindell, Remington said, according to the AP.

Law Forward and another Madison law firm, Stafford Rosenbaum, sued the commission and Spindell on behalf of Paul Sickel, executive director of the Service Employees International Unions Wisconsin State Council. It was Sickel who made the original complaint to the elections commission.

Jeff Mandell, co-founder of Law Forward, said the purpose of this suit was to get a ruling that bars a member of the elections commission from considering a complaint that directly involves them.

We want to make sure this doesnt happen again, Mandell told the AP after Mondays hearing. Theres not a vendetta or anything like that here.

The case heard Monday is one of two pending lawsuits Law Forward filed related to the fake electors, AP reported. A judge earlier this year rejected a third lawsuit against Spindell seeking records related to consideration of the complaint.

The other remaining case is pending in federal court. It alleges a conspiracy to overturn the election and seeks $2.4 million in damages from the 10 fake electors and Trump attorneys Kenneth Chesebro and Jim Troupis.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  A Cleveland city worker was arrested Monday and accused of stalking a woman who has been reported missing, authorities say.

Michael Stennett, 65, a recreation worker, was charged in Cleveland Municipal Court with violating a protective order and stalking involving Lachelle Jordan, 30. Jordans family reported her missing Sunday.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  A woman has been charged with murder in the shooting of her boyfriend at their apartment in Willoughby on Friday.

Ashley Deziree Doss, 32, shot her boyfriend Deonte Taylor 30, about 3:20 a.m., police said. The incident took place at Oakhill Apartments at 38380 Oak Hill Lane. Doss called police and told them that she shot her boyfriend, and he needed an ambulance, according to police.
CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio  Police are investigating the slaying of a 19-year-old man from Cleveland.

Sir Keonte Jackson was fatally shot about 12:30 a.m. in the 3300 block of Desota Avenue, according to the office of the Cuyahoga County medical examiner. Police found Jackson with a gunshot wound in a vehicle.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A pandemic-related exception to the requirement that students repeat the third grade if theyre not reading proficiently ends with this academic year, and state lawmakers are considering whether to permanently eliminate the Third Grade Reading Guarantee retention mandate.

The Houses version of the two-year state budget nixes the mandate that a child repeat the third grade. So does a bipartisan standalone bill, House Bill 117, sponsored by Reps. Gayle Manning, a North Ridgeville Republican, and Phil Robinson, a Solon Democrat.

HB 117 is similar to a bill the Ohio House passed last June with bipartisan support. But the idea died in the Ohio Senate.

Now, though, lawmakers are faced with a new deadline as the pandemic rule is set to expire, and a budget that will include major policy debates as legislators in both chambers try to attach their ideas to the two-year spending bill before sending it to Gov. Mike DeWine.

The high-stakes testing required to advance to the fourth grade causes anxiety, and some students perform lower on the test than their actual reading level, said Manning, a retired elementary school teacher.

Furthermore, reading proficiency levels in the fourth grade havent meaningfully improved since the 2013-2014 school year, when the retention requirement began. Ohios reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress prior to the pandemic show scores have remained virtually stagnant since 2002, said Robinson, who works in nonprofit education management.

Opponents to repealing the retention requirement say there must be a checkpoint where schools can evaluate third graders reading abilities and ensure theyre on solid footing before progressing to fourth grade. Its a critical time for kids. Research shows a childs reading ability by the end of the third grade is tied to success in school and later in life.

Last years bill to nix the retention requirement died in the Senate, and its unclear whether the Senate will accept the Third Grade Reading Guarantee changes in the budget bill, which already has passed the House.

Both HB 117 and the Houses version of the budget bill say that districts and private schools that accept the EdChoice scholarship voucher must continue offering reading intervention and remediation services to students who read below grade level. That includes offering reading intervention plans  personalized, intensive targeted instruction to students in fourth- and fifth-grade who read below grade level.

The Third Grade Reading Guarantee isnt the only literacy-related issue before lawmakers. The General Assembly is also studying DeWines budget proposal to transition all public school students to the science of reading, a literacy education approach that focuses on phonics and vocabulary lessons and moves away from the three cueing approach, also known as balanced literacy or whole language, that teaches kids strategies such as looking at a books pictures, and considering context, sentence structure and the words letters.

The House left DeWines science of reading proposal in the version of the budget it passed but cut some of the funding for the plan.

Read: Gov. Mike DeWine enters the reading wars with budget proposal to fund change to science of reading

The Third Grade Reading Guarantee and science of reading changes arent dependent on each other. Lawmakers could make changes to one, the other or both.

In addition to nixing the retention requirement, HB 117 requires the state create minimum standards for the use of phonics and provide in-service teacher training in phonics.

But state Sen. Andrew Brenner, chairman of the Senate Primary and Secondary Education Committee, said he is uneasy about eliminating the Third Grade Reading Guarantee retention requirement, saying that it creates a standard to make sure children have a reading foundation that will be necessary for all school subjects and in their lives after graduation. He would only be open to it if the science of reading is implemented at public schools statewide.

Part of this discussion with the Third Grade Reading Guarantee is can we put these kids on reading improvement plans where the science is behind it that these kids will get on a path to be able to learn to read by fourth grade? That is still the objective, he said.

DeWine is still reviewing the Houses version of the bill that gets rid of the retention component of the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, said his spokesman, Dan Tierney.

Origin story

Former Gov. John Kasich signed legislation in June 2012 that mandated schools hold back third graders who were not proficient in reading. Prior to 2012, teachers and principals got to choose whether to retain a low-performing student under the Third Grade Reading Guarantee.

But once the state started testing kids under the new policy, lawmakers became concerned that good readers could not make the Third Grade Reading Guarantee promotion score due to testing anxiety and the high stakes of the 2012 law. The following year, lawmakers authorized the Ohio Department of Education to allow other tests for which students could be considered proficient, based on equivalent scores to Ohios State Test.

Today, ODE allows five tests, including the Iowa Assessments and the Northwest Evaluation Association Measure of Academic Progress.

Ohio is one of around a dozen states that have a third-grade retention requirement for reading, said Aaron Churchill, the Ohio research director for the Thomas B. Fordham Institute, a think tank and charter school sponsor that opposes repealing with the retention requirement.

If you cant read at the end of grade three, your prospects are quite dim, Churchill said. The dropout rates are higher if youre having difficulty reading at that point.

The material gets harder when you get into fourth-, fifth-, sixth-grade, youre just going to get left behind if you dont have those foundational reading skills, he continued. So we think its still important to have that checkpoint.

Churchill points to research in Florida, Indiana and Mississippi, tracking students who scored similarly in third-grade reading proficiency  some making the cut to matriculate to the fourth grade and some having to be held back for another year of third grade. The students who repeated third grade had overall better academic outcomes over the long term.

For instance, in Florida, they had higher high school grade-point averages. In Indiana, retained students made substantial gains on state exams through seventh grade. In Mississippi, retained students scored approximately 40 percentile points higher in the sixth-grade English language arts test than their peers who had been promoted.

Ohio Excels, a group of business leaders concerned about education issues, is worried that if the retention requirement goes away, children who are behind may never catch up. The bill and budget provision only require supports and interventions for fourth and fifth grade. Yet the vast majority of jobs are not available for someone who is not a strong reader.

Morally its not acceptable for those kids, but from an economic standpoint and a workforce standpoint were not going to be able to sustain an economy with that, said Lisa Gray, Ohio Excels president

Test scores

Ohio State University researchers analyzed 15 years of National Assessment of Educational Progress scores, between 2002 to 2017. The test is also known as the Nations Report Card.

Reading proficiency barely budged. In 2007, 28% of fourth graders reached proficiency, compared to 29% in 2017  this includes years with the retention mandate.

The researchers also looked at reading scores of third graders in 2016-2017, most of whom were promoted to fourth grade in 2017-2018, five years after the retention requirement went into effect.

They found every single Ohio school district reported a higher Third Grade Reading Guarantee passage rate than a fourth-grade reading proficiency rate.

In some districts, the differences between the two scores were wide. Some of this may have to do with differences between alternative assessments the kids may have taken to pass the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, compared to the English Language Arts portion of the Ohio State Test they had to take in the fourth grade.

The researchers also concluded that the 2012 law that allowed the Third Grade Reading Guarantee promotion rate to be lower than the reading proficiency score also has to do with the disparity in the fourth grade.

Nevertheless, the threat of being held back if they dont pass the guarantee looms large for children, educators told lawmakers on Tuesday, when testifying on HB 117.

Retention is stressful, traumatic, punitive, shameful and embarrassing, said Jennifer Bindus, a third-grade teacher at Aurora City Schools in Portage County. Retention, based on a single measure, is bad practice. Retention, without a team consensus, is bad practice. Retention gaps exist along racial and social lines. Retained students often receive more of the same instruction when really, they might just need something different. I have to ask, Why are lawmakers imposing a practice that does demonstrable harm to Ohios children?

The states largest teachers unions, the Ohio Education Association and the Ohio Federation of Teachers, each oppose the retention mandate.

Melissa Kmetz, the 2023 Ohio Teacher of the Year, submitted comments to lawmakers, urging them to nix the retention mandate. She works for the Lakeview Local School District in Trumbull County, and teaches language arts exclusively.

Kmetz said the format of the standardized tests have problems. Test questions do not always accurately measure reading comprehension, sometimes using graphs and charts that supplement text. Sometimes the test content is confusing. Its not always clear where students mark answers.

When students raise their hand for assistance, teachers are unable to provide assistance, she wrote. In these cases, students know the content and often the answer, they just dont understand what is being asked or how to show it. Such lengthy and frequent testing is developmentally inappropriate for many eight- and nine-year-old students.

The answer to reading includes universal access to high quality early childhood education, Kmetz said, noting too many kindergarteners arrive to school behind and must play catchup in the early grades.

Kmetz described one student who sobbed while taking the test, convinced he was going to fail. This year, she received an email from a parent, describing their child as crying and hyperventilating the night before the test.

Whats next

Brenner, the Ohio senator overseeing the K-12 education committee, predicts the Senate will put back into the budget bill the Third Grade Reading Guarantee retention provision.

Then negotiations between the Ohio House and Senate are expected begin to hammer out their differences in the budget bill.

Its going to be something thats probably going to be discussed in conference committee at some point, but were having discussions on what to do with it, he said. And also discussing the literacy (science of reading instruction.) But were not at the point where weve made any decisions. We probably wont for another two weeks.

Laura Hancock covers state government and politics for The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com.




Three members of a Korean American family were among the deceased victims of a weekend shooting spree at an outlet mall in Texas, a Korean diplomatic mission said Sunday.







The couple in their 30s and their three-year-old son were shot to death in Saturday's rampage at the mall in Allen, while another child of the couple was injured and is being treated at a hospital, according to the Korean Consulate in Dallas.







The shooting has left at least eight people dead and seven others injured, according to CNN.







The gunman, identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, was killed by a police officer who was at the mall for an unrelated issue. The motive behind the killings remains unclear. (Yonhap)






Kim Seong-tae, right, a former South Korean prisoner of war, speaks to reporters at the Seoul Central District Court after winning a damages suit against North Korea and its leader Kim Jong-un, May 8. Yonhap



Former South Korean prisoners of war (POWs) have again won a damages suit filed against North Korea and its leader Kim Jong-un for their forced labor during captivity there.



The Seoul Central District Court on Monday ordered North Korea and Kim to pay 50 million won ($37,900) each to three former POWs, who escaped from the North in the early 2000s after being taken prisoner during the 1950-53 Korean War.



The three, including Kim Seong-tae, 91, launched their litigation in September 2020, arguing that they were taken to the communist state during the war and forced to work in a coal mine for about 33 months in the 1950s. They escaped from the North between 2000 and 2001.



The ruling came after the same court issued a similar verdict in July 2000, in which the North and leader Kim were ordered to pay 21 million won each to two former POWs.



Kim Seong-tae and two other POWs filed their lawsuits two months after the first ruling.



In both cases, the court hearings proceeded without any party representing the defendants. Despite winning the cases, however, it seems difficult for the plaintiffs to actually receive the compensation.



Plaintiffs in the first case launched a lawsuit to collect their compensation from the Foundation of Inter-Korea Cooperation, a South Korean organization entrusted with the protection and management of North Korea's copyrights but lost their case last year. (Yonhap)


Tran Anh Dong, left, and son Tran Viet Bach celebrate the New Year in their home, Jan. 1. Courtesy of Tran Anh Dong



By Kim Se-jeong



When Vo Thi Nhung got married in 2018, she was a teacher at a daycare center in Vietnam. In 2020, Vo got pregnant and quit her job to join her husband, Tran Anh Dong, who had moved to Korea.



In March 2021, their son, Tran Viet Bach, was born in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, and in November 2022, the couple sent the 18-month-old boy to a daycare facility. Five days later, the child died at the facility.



An autopsy showed the boy had suffocated to death. As the police investigation unfolded, the parents learned that a daycare teacher wanted the child to get more sleep and applied excessive force on him for 15 minutes.



Prosecutors sought a 30-year prison term for the teacher, claiming the death was the result of murder due to gross negligence, while the defendant claimed it was an accident. The presiding judge sentenced the teacher last month to 19 years behind bars.



The couple appealed the ruling, claiming the sentence was not harsh enough.



"Nineteen years makes no sense. She killed a baby and only gets 19 years in prison? Something is very wrong," Tran, the father, told The Korea Times. "We are fighting to get her more than 19 years of imprisonment."



Tran still remembers how healthy son was.



"He was totally fine and well. He ate well and slept well. And he's suddenly dead. It is hard to accept."



Korea has notorious child abuse records. Abuses take place mostly at home, according to experts, but abuses by childcare teachers are also frequent.



The couple lives under the guilt of having sent their son to the daycare center.





This undated photo shows Vo Thi Nhung, right, with his son Tran Viet Bach. Courtesy of Tran Anh Dong
 
Travelers look at a display board showing canceled and delayed flights at Orlando International Airport on New Year's weekend, despite thousands of flight cancellations and delays across United States.

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday said his administration is writing new rules that will require airlines to compensate passengers with cash for significant flight delays or cancellations when the carriers are responsible.

"Our top priority has been to get American air travelers a better deal," Biden said.

It is the latest in a series of moves by the Biden administration to crack down on airlines and bolster passenger consumer protections for domestic U.S. flights and international flights involving an American destination or origin.

"Summer travel is going to put enormous pressure on the system," U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Monday. "Airlines need to accept their fundamental responsibility to better serve passengers."

The U.S. Department of Transportation did not specify how much cash it aims to require airlines to pay passengers for significant delays. But it asked carriers last year whether they would agree to pay at least $100 for delays of at least three hours caused by airlines.

Biden said the delay compensation rules will be proposed by the end of the year but it could take years to finalize rules, and some carriers privately question whether the department has the legal authority to mandate compensation for delays. A July 2021 proposal to require airlines to refund consumers fees for baggage that is delayed, or onboard service like Wi-Fi that do not work, are still not finalized.

The Transportation Department said it plans to write regulations that will require airlines to cover expenses such as meals and hotels if carriers are responsible for stranding passengers. Most carriers voluntarily committed last August to provide hotels or meals but resisted providing cash compensation for delays.

The Biden administration has objected to family seating fees, investigated 10 carriers for failing to provide refunds, pressed Southwest Airlines (LUV.N) to do more after a holiday meltdown led to more than 16,000 flight cancellations, and proposed other new consumer protections.

The Transportation Department on Monday made clear on a government website that no U.S. carriers have agreed to provide cash compensation for delayed or canceled flights under carriers' control.

The Biden administration has sparred with U.S. airlines over who was to blame for hundreds of thousands of flight disruptions last year.

Airlines for America, a trade association representing Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) , United Airlines (UAL.O), American Airlines (AAL.O), and others, said U.S. airlines "have no incentive to delay or cancel a flight and do everything in their control to ensure flights depart and arrive on time, but safety is always the top priority."

U.S. airlines note the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) acknowledges it does not have enough air traffic control staff and is operating 10% fewer flights than in 2019 to reduce pressure on the system.

In October, Reuters first reported major U.S. airlines opposed Transportation Department plans to update its dashboard to show whether carriers would voluntarily compensate passengers for lengthy delays within airlines' control.

The updated dashboard shows JetBlue Airways(JBLU.O) offers frequent flyer miles, travel credits or vouchers when cancellations or delays that are under the airline's control result in passengers waiting three hours or more, and Alaska Airlines (ALK.N) offers travel credits or vouchers. No airline guarantees cash compensation.

There is no legal requirement for airlines to compensate U.S. passengers for delayed or canceled flights, but the European Union and some other countries require compensation of up to 600 euros ($663) for most significant delays.
Warren Buffett sang Apple 's (AAPL) praises Saturday at Berkshire Hathaway 's annual shareholder meeting, saying the iPhone maker is a better company than any firm in the conglomerate's vast portfolio. And, the legendary investor's argument rests on the logic that's similar to why Jim Cramer has long said Apple is an "own it, don't trade it" stock. At the heart of Apple's success  and what makes it such an incredible long-term investment  is its customer loyalty, according to the 92-year-old chairman and CEO of Berkshire, which first disclosed an Apple stake worth about $1 billion in May 2016. Berkshire's Apple position has grown in size and value over the years and was worth about $151 billion, as of March 31. Buffett offered up a hypothetical scenario  perhaps using a little hyperbole  to express what he sees as the Apple magic. "Apple has a position with consumers where they're paying $1,500, or whatever it may be, for a phone. And these same people pay $35,000 for having a second car," the Oracle of Omaha said. "If they had to give up a second car or give up their iPhone, they'd give up their second car. It's an extraordinary product." AAPL .SPX mountain 2016-05-16 Apple's stock performance versus the S & P 500 since May 16, 2016, the day Berkshire's stake in the iPhone maker was first disclosed. Berkshire is a holding company with ownership of businesses all over the industry map including BNSF Railway, auto insurer Geico, chocolate maker See's Candies and the Dairy Queen ice cream chain. Berkshire is also a major shareholder in publicly traded companies such as Coca-Cola (KO) and Chevron (CVX). The Apple stake stands out among them, Buffett said. "Our criteria for Apple is different than the other businesses we own. It just happens to be a better business than any we own," said Buffett, who has also long complimented Apple CEO Tim Cook's management acumen. "Our railway is a very good business," Buffett added. "It's not remotely as good as Apple's business." Buffett's comments Saturday were "very bullish on Apple," Jim said Monday during the Club's "Morning Meeting." In general, we find little to disagree with in Buffett's admiration for Apple and are pleased to be fellow shareholders in the tech giant. Why the Club owns Apple To expand on it further, we wanted to highlight some specific Apple characteristics that support our desire to remain investors in the company in the years ahead. In addition to customer loyalty, these include its robust free cash flow generation, steady stock buybacks, and a rock-solid balance sheet. Apple also emphasizes generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in its quarterly report, offering a high-quality window into its financial health. This combination of characteristics puts Apple in rarefied investment air. Jim's Charitable Trust, the portfolio we use for the Club, has had a position in Apple for more than a decade. While we don't invest on autopilot and always study day-to-day updates in all our companies, Apple has so far continued to pass the own-it, don't-trade-it test. 1. Brand loyalty and product ecosystem People love the iPhone and Apple's other hardware products, such as Mac computers and Apple Watch. For example, customer satisfaction for the iPhone 14 stood at 98%, Apple CFO Luca Maestri said on the company's February post-earnings conference call. He was citing a survey from 451 Research . For the Mac, Maestri said the survey found customer satisfaction of 96%. When the time comes to upgrade to a new version, history shows most Apple users stick with the brand. Apple's base of installed devices has now topped 2 billion worldwide, an all-time record that reflects the customer satisfaction and loyalty Buffett values. Apple also is seeing traction in emerging markets like India and Indonesia where it has previously had little presence, creating an opportunity to grow the installed device number even further. This is where the idea of Apple's ecosystem comes into play. The larger its hardware user base, the bigger the pool of potential subscribers to Apple services, which includes Apple Music, iCloud storage and fees from App Store purchases. Apple's services revenue  which tends to be high margin and assigned a premium by investors  reached a record $20.9 billion in its March quarter. The number of accounts that made a Services transaction in the quarter also was an all-time high, according to Maestri. These company-branded services, which also include Apple Pay, add to the value and stickiness of owning an iPhone and other Apple devices. The software-hardware relationship creates an unmatched ecosystem that generates durable revenue streams for Apple. And, investors love to know that a company can consistently attract customers, new and old. 2. Free cash flow and buybacks Apple's generates enormous sums of free cash flow, which is great for investors because that is money available to pay out dividends and repurchase stock . Free cash flow is generally defined as operating cash flow minus capital expenditures or cash spent on purchases of plant, property and equipment (PP & E). In its latest fiscal year, Apple recorded $111.4 billion in free cash flow, the most of any company in the S & P 500 , according to FactSet data. Perhaps even more telling, that figure was greater than the $99.8 billion in full-year net income, which, along with the strict adherence to GAAP reporting, speaks to the pure quality of the company's earnings. Apple returns tons of that free cash flow to shareholders  much to Buffett and the Club's satisfaction. Buffett especially loves Apple's approach to buybacks because they enable Berkshire's ownership percentage to increase without needing to purchase additional shares. Berkshire currently owns about 5.66% of the 15.82 billion Apple shares outstanding, according to FactSet. "If they [Apple] get that down to 15.25 billion, without us doing anything, we've got 6% [ownership]," Buffett said Saturday. Apple spent $89.4 billion on buybacks in its latest fiscal year, by far the most of S & P 500 constituent, according to FactSet. Last week, the iPhone maker's board authorized an additional $90 billion share repurchase program. Apple also raised its quarterly dividend by a penny to 24 cents a share, for an annualized dividend yield of 0.55%, based on Monday's share price around $173 each. 3. Balance sheet king Apple's high-quality balance sheet is another reason the company is such an attractive investment over the long haul. Companies with strong balance sheets  generally meaning a lot more assets, including cash on hand, than liabilities  are well-positioned to ride out periods of economic instability. They can continue investing in their businesses without selling stock and diluting existing shareholders in the process, and/or raising debt at unfavorable terms that heighten interest expenses. For its part, Apple does sell bonds from time to time, including a five-part offering disclosed Monday in securities filings . However, both Apple's financial health and top credit rating mean its borrowing can be done at favorable terms. Proceeds from Apple's newest bond offering will be used for general corporate purposes, including buybacks, dividends and capital expenditures. Bottom line We're with Buffett on Apple. It is among the highest-quality businesses and one worth owning for the long haul. The characteristics outlined above are why that's the case. Of course, as Jim preaches, it's important to be a buy-and-homework investor , not just a buy-and-hold strategy. In that homework process, we'll always be on the lookout for new information that could change our investment approach to Apple. So far, the iPhone maker continues to pass the test. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long AAPL. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.

Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett (L) and Apple CEO Tim Cook (R) CNBC (L) | Getty Images (R)
A hidden army of contract workers who have been doing the behind-the-scenes labor of teaching AI systems how to analyze data so they can generate the kinds of text and images that have wowed the people using newly popular products like ChatGPT. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Alexej Savreux, a 34-year-old in Kansas City, says he's done all kinds of work over the years. He's made fast-food sandwiches. He's been a custodian and a junk-hauler. And he's done technical sound work for live theater. These days, though, his work is less hands-on: He's an artificial intelligence trainer. Savreux is part of a hidden army of contract workers who have been doing the behind-the-scenes labor of teaching AI systems how to analyze data so they can generate the kinds of text and images that have wowed the people using newly popular products like ChatGPT. To improve the accuracy of AI, he has labeled photos and made predictions about what text the apps should generate next. The pay: $15 an hour and up, with no benefits. Out of the limelight, Savreux and other contractors have spent countless hours in the past few years teaching OpenAI's systems to give better responses in ChatGPT. Their feedback fills an urgent and endless need for the company and its AI competitors: providing streams of sentences, labels and other information that serve as training data. "We are grunt workers, but there would be no AI language systems without it," said Savreux, who's done work for tech startups including OpenAI, the San Francisco company that released ChatGPT in November and set off a wave of hype around generative AI. "You can design all the neural networks you want, you can get all the researchers involved you want, but without labelers, you have no ChatGPT. You have nothing," Savreux said.

It's not a job that will give Savreux fame or riches, but it's an essential and often overlooked one in the field of AI, where the seeming magic of a new technological frontier can overshadow the labor of contract workers. "A lot of the discourse around AI is very congratulatory," said Sonam Jindal, the program lead for AI, labor and the economy at the Partnership on AI, a nonprofit based in San Francisco that promotes research and education around artificial intelligence. "But we're missing a big part of the story: that this is still hugely reliant on a large human workforce," she said. The tech industry has for decades relied on the labor of thousands of lower-skilled, lower-paid workers to build its computer empires: from punch-card operators in the 1950s to more recent Google contractors who've complained about second-class status, including yellow badges that set them apart from full-time employees. Online gig work through sites like Amazon Mechanical Turk grew even more popular early in the pandemic. Now, the burgeoning AI industry is following a similar playbook. The work is defined by its unsteady, on-demand nature, with people employed by written contracts either directly by a company or through a third-party vendor that specializes in temp work or outsourcing. Benefits such as health insurance are rare or nonexistent  which translates to lower costs for tech companies  and the work is usually anonymous, with all the credit going to tech startup executives and researchers. The Partnership on AI warned in a 2021 report that a spike in demand was coming for what it called "data enrichment work." It recommended that the industry commit to fair compensation and other improved practices, and last year it published voluntary guidelines for companies to follow.

"A lot of the discourse around AI is very congratulatory." Sonam Jindal program lead for AI, labor and economy at the Partnership on AI

DeepMind, an AI subsidiary of Google, is so far the only tech company to publicly commit to those guidelines. "A lot of people have recognized that this is important to do. The challenge now is to get companies to do it," Jindal said. "This is a new job that's being created by AI," she added. "We have the potential for this to be a high-quality job and for workers who are doing this work to be respected and valued for their contributions to enabling this advancement." A spike in demand has arrived, and some AI contract workers are asking for more. In Nairobi, Kenya, more than 150 people who've worked on AI for Facebook, TikTok and ChatGPT voted Monday to form a union, citing low pay and the mental toll of the work, Time magazine reported. Facebook and TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the vote. OpenAI declined to comment. So far, AI contract work hasn't inspired a similar movement in the U.S. among the Americans quietly building AI systems word-by-word. Savreux, who works from home on a laptop, got into AI contracting after seeing an online job posting. He credits the AI gig work  along with a previous job at the sandwich chain Jimmy John's  with helping to pull him out of homelessness. "People sometimes minimize these necessary, laborious jobs," he said. "It's the necessary, entry-level area of machine learning." The $15 an hour is more than the minimum wage in Kansas City.

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Job postings for AI contractors refer to both the allure of working in a cutting-edge industry as well as the sometimes-grinding nature of the work. An advertisement from Invisible Technologies, a temp agency, for an "Advanced AI Data Trainer" notes that the job would be entry level with pay starting at $15 an hour, but also that it could be "beneficial to humanity." "Think of it like being a language arts teacher or a personal tutor for some of the world's most influential technology," the job posting says. It doesn't name Invisible's client, but it says the new hire would work "within protocols developed by the world's leading AI researchers." Invisible did not immediately respond to a request for more information on its listings. There's no definitive tally of how many contractors work for AI companies, but it's an increasingly common form of work around the world. Time magazine reported in January that OpenAI relied on low-wage Kenyan laborers to label text that included hate speech or sexually abusive language so that its apps could do better at recognizing toxic content on their own. OpenAI has hired about 1,000 remote contractors in places such as Eastern Europe and Latin America to label data or train company software on computer engineering tasks, the online news outlet Semafor reported in January. OpenAI is still a small company, with some 375 employees as of January, CEO Sam Altman said on Twitter, but that number doesn't include contractors and doesn't reflect the full scale of the operation or its ambitions. A spokesperson for OpenAI said no one was available to answer questions about its use of AI contractors. The work of creating data to train AI models isn't always simple to do, and sometimes it's complex enough to attract would-be AI entrepreneurs.

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Tesla CEO Elon Musk joined Texas Governor Greg Abbott to break ground at the site of the electric vehicle maker's new lithium refinery in Corpus Christi on Monday.

Tesla plans to invest $375 million to build the facility on the Gulf coast that will help it secure a domestic supply of lithium hydroxide, a key ingredient used to make batteries for its electric vehicles, and its home- and utility-scale batteries.

Musk said that Tesla is aiming to produce enough battery-grade lithium at the refinery to manufacture one million vehicles per year, and to produce more lithium than the rest of North America's refining capacity combined there.

Mining company Albemarle announced plans to invest $1.3 billion in a new lithium processing facility in South Carolina in March.

According to filings with the Texas Comptroller's office, Tesla specifically plans to construct a "battery-grade lithium hydroxide refining facility," and other "facilities to support other types of battery materials processing, refining and manufacturing and ancillary manufacturing operations in support of Tesla's sustainable product line."

The company promised in its filings that "the process Tesla will use is innovative and designed to consume less hazardous reagents and create usable byproducts compared to the conventional process."

On Monday, Musk claimed, "There's no toxic emissions or anything -- you could live right in the middle of the refinery and not suffer any ill effects."
Artificial intelligence is going to be a central theme at Google's annual developer conference on Wednesday, as the company is planning to announce a number of generative AI updates, including launching a general-use large language model (LLM), CNBC has learned.

According to internal documents about Google I/O viewed by CNBC, the company will unveil PaLM 2, its most recent and advanced LLM. PaLM 2 includes more than 100 languages and has been operating under the internal codename "Unified Language Model." It's also performed a broad range of coding and math tests as well as creative writing tests and analysis.

At the event, Google will make announcements on the theme of how AI is "helping people reach their full potential," including "generative experiences" to Bard and Search, the documents show. Pichai will be speaking to a live crowd of developers as he pitches his company's AI advancements.

The updates come as competition ramps up in the AI arm's race, with Google and Microsoft racing to incorporate chat AI technology into their products. Microsoft is using its investment in ChatGPT creator OpenAI to bolster its Bing search engine, while Google has quickly mobilized to try and incorporate its Bard technology and its own LLM across various teams.

Google first announced the PaLM language model in April of 2022. In March of this year, the company launched an API for PaLM alongside a number of AI enterprise tools it says will help businesses "generate text, images, code, videos, audio, and more from simple natural language prompts."

Last month, Google said its medical LLM called "Med-PaLM 2" can answer medical exam questions at an "expert doctor level" and is accurate 85% of the time.

Google also plans to share advancements to Bard and Search with "generative experiences," including Bard being used for coding, math and "logic" as well as expansions to Japanese and Korean languages, the documents show.

The company has been working on a series of more powerful Bard models, and officially launched the tool as an experiment in March.

Internally, the company has worked on a multi-modal version called "Multi-Bard," which uses a larger data set and solves complex math and coding programs, according to separate documentation viewed by CNBC. The company has also tested versions called "Big Bard" and "Giant Bard."

Google also plans on expanding on its "Workspace AI collaborator," including discussing template generation in Sheets and image generation in its Slides and Meet products. In March, the company said it would be giving access to AI capabilities in Gmail and Google Docs to a small number of users as part of a test, with plans to bring additional generative AI features to its Meet, Sheets and Slides applications.

One image, viewed by CNBC, showed a Slides sidebar with a chat box that allowed a user to enter text with the option to "create" an image based on the words.

Additional updates include use cases to image recognition tool Google Lens. The company will show advancements to "multi-search" for camera and voice, after last year allowing users to ask questions about what they're viewing in images.

Outside of the AI sphere, Google will show off its new foldable phone, The Pixel Fold, as CNBC previously reported. The company claims the Pixel Fold will have "the most durable hinge on a foldable" phone and will offer a phone trade-in option. Google plans to market the Pixel Fold as water-resistant and pocket-sized.

A Google spokesperson didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

WATCH: Google is 'on borrowed time'
Drone footage shows clouds of black smoke over Bahri, also known as Khartoum North, Sudan, in this May 1, 2023 video obtained by REUTERS

The International Rescue Committee anticipates "a secondary humanitarian crisis" as refugees pour into neighboring countries escaping the escalating conflict in Sudan.

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) entered its 24th day on Monday as yet another cease-fire fell by the wayside earlier in the week.

U.S. Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told a Senate hearing on Thursday that fighting is "likely to be protracted as both sides believe that they can win militarily and have few incentives to come to the negotiating table."

Around 45 million people remain in Sudan, facing acute shortages of fuel, food, water and medical access. Multiple ceasefires have quickly dissolved into further violence, making it difficult for international bodies and NGOs to get humanitarian aid into the vast, sprawling country.

The IRC estimated that as of Wednesday, the conflict had displaced around 334,000 people within Sudan itself, while almost 65,000 were estimated to have moved over borders as refugees to neighboring countries.

"These countries are already of course struggling following ongoing conflict, and the failure of six rainy seasons in the Horn of Africa, which has already left many people food insecure or malnourished," Madiha Raza, IRC senior global communications officer for Africa, told CNBC.

According to the IRC, 30,000 refugees have crossed the border from the Darfur region in western Sudan into Chad since April 15.

A further 15,000 have fled to South Sudan, many of whom are returnees that had previously fled their own country's conflict south of the border, while several thousand have also crossed into Ethiopia.
Representative Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, during a field hearing in New York, April 17, 2023.

House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, threatened enforcement action against Google that could include holding the company in contempt of Congress for failing to produce documents the committee subpoenaed to learn about communications between tech companies and the Biden administration.

In a letter to a lawyer for Google shared exclusively with CNBC, Jordan called the company's compliance so far "insufficient" and demanded it hand over more information. If the company fails to comply fully by its new May 22 deadline, Jordan warned, "the Committee may be forced to consider the use of one or more enforcement mechanisms."

Jordan issued subpoenas to the CEOs of Google parent Alphabet , Amazon , Apple , Meta and Microsoft in February, demanding they hand over communication with the U.S. government to "understand how and to what extent the Executive Branch coerced and colluded with companies and other intermediaries to censor speech." Jordan requested the companies comply by March 23. He made the request after initially asking the companies to hand over the information voluntarily, but said they had not sufficiently complied.

While several other tech giants were subpoenaed in connection with the committee's investigation, the other companies have so far appeared more responsive than Google to the demands, according to a source familiar with the matter who declined to be named in order to speak freely.

Congress can hold individuals in contempt for refusing to provide information requested by a committee. Doing so requires a committee vote and then a floor vote, with a simple majority. Republicans currently hold the majority in the House 222-213.

Criminal contempt cases can be referred to the Justice Department, or Congress could seek a civil judgement from a federal court to try to enforce the subpoena, according to a 2017 paper from the Congressional Research Service.

The committee may also seek to take other actions against Google, like deposing the company's management or trying to restrict federal dollars from going to Google in future legislation.

In the letter, Jordan laid out several ways Alphabet has failed to adequately comply with the committee's demands.

He said that Alphabet "has frustrated the Committee's review of the responsive material by unilaterally redacting key information necessary to understand the context and content of the material."

Alphabet didn't assert that those redactions included privileged information, according to Jordan, and the committee requires unredacted documents to be handed over.

The company has recently placed some documents in a "reading room," Jordan said, "in a form and manner that prevents and frustrates the Committee's understanding and use of those documents and fails to comply with the terms of the subpoena without the Committee's consent."

He wrote that Alphabet had produced 4,000 pages of documents in response to the subpoena. But those documents have yet to include an "appreciable volume" of several types of communications the committee assumes Google would have. Those include communications with other social media platforms about content moderation, documents from Alphabet's other subsidiary companies, communications over messaging services other than email and communications between employees about any contact with the executive branch of the U.S. government.

"The release of the Twitter Files has shown just how extensively the Executive Branch communicated and coordinated with technology companies regarding content moderation," Jordan wrote, referring to reports on internal documents that Twitter owner Elon Musk made available to a hand-selected group of journalists when he took over the company. "We are skeptical that Alphabet's interactions with the federal government where pressure was applied were any less concerning than those of Twitter."

In a statement, a Google spokesperson said the company has been "producing relevant documents in response to the committee's requests" since December and "will continue to work constructively with them."

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WATCH: Can China's ChatGPT clones give it an edge over the U.S. in an A.I. arms race?
Global spending on education will be worth $8 trillion by 2030, Morgan Stanley predicts, saying there are opportunities in the market that are "just beginning to be enabled by technology." That is up from $6 trillion as of 2022, which represented 5.9% of the world's gross domestic product, according to the investment bank. "Education is one of the most fragmented sectors worldwide, whether on a regional or global scale, and its consolidation process is just beginning to be enabled by technology," said Morgan Stanley analysts in a recent report. "For companies that are able to leverage their digital capabilities and balance sheets, technology allows them to break physical barriers, democratize learning, and grow faster," they added. "It also drives increased profitability through cost dilution, thus leading to a greater ability to reinvest in growth." Technology and two other factors  problems in education that will push companies to come up with solutions, and undervaluation in education stocks  will be the key catalysts behind investment opportunities, the bank said. Stock picks Morgan Stanley named seven stock picks to capitalize on the trend. Here are four of them. Coursera : The U.S-listed online educational content platform is a key player that's been able to tap operational efficiencies, and is both accessible and affordable, said Morgan Stanley. "We like the fact that Coursera is dedicated to providing universal access to education globally which we think is important as we consider upskilling/reskilling, and the general need for continued education," the bank's analysts wrote. The bank gave the stock a price target of $17, or 53% potential upside. 3P Learning : Morgan Stanley said the Australian firm is a "distinct" product that reaches a wide variety of groups  schools, teachers, parents and home users. It develops software for a range of ages, from those in kindergarten to those in their teens, the bank noted. "We like that the digital learning opportunity is currently available worldwide and that most programs offer users an engaging, meaningful, and personal learning experience," the analysts wrote. The bank gave the stock a price target of 1.60 Australian dollars ($1.07), or potentially 35% upside. Arco Platform : Morgan Stanley says Arco is a leader in Brazil's K-12 learning systems, and has a presence throughout the country. It added that Arco has been gaining market share, and it predicts the firm will grow at a 26% compound annual growth rate until 2025. The bank gave the stock a price target of $17, implying 42% upside. YDUQS : Morgan Stanley noted the firm, which is also a Brazilian player, is committed to being accessible and affordable to lower-income groups. "YDUQS has focused on its digital transformation efforts to attract a growing demand from consumers. Additionally, we think the company is well-run, with exposure to the main segments (campus, distant learning, and medical schools) and was able to navigate through the pandemic relatively well," the analysts wrote. The bank gave the stock a price target of 13.50 Brazilian Real ($2.70), implying 57% upside.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
This combined file photo shows Reps. Kim Jae-won, left, and Tae Yong-ho of the ruling People Power Party. Yonhap



The ruling People Power Party (PPP) was set to hold an ethics committee meeting on Monday on two Supreme Council members accused of making a series of controversial remarks, with heavy disciplinary actions expected for both of them.



Kim Jae-won and Rep. Tae Yong-ho could be barred from running in next year's parliamentary elections if they are given one-year party membership suspension or heavier disciplinary measures in Monday's ethics committee meeting.



Kim was referred to the committee for remarks seen as slighting victims of two historical events  the bloody 1948-1954 suppression of a civil revolt on Jeju Island and the 1980 pro-democracy uprising in the southwestern city of Gwangju.



Kim was also accused of lauding Jun Kwang-hoon, an ultra right-wing pastor.



Tae, a North Korean defector-turned-lawmaker, was referred to the committee in part for displaying what critics say was a distorted history perception by insisting that the civil uprising on Jeju was obviously triggered on the instruction of North Korea's late national founder, Kim Il-sung.



He has also been under criticism over a phone conversation he had with senior presidential political affairs secretary Lee Jin-bok, in which Lee allegedly asked Tae to make remarks in support of Korea-Japan relations while talking about the issue of party nominations for next year's general elections.



Tae talked about Lee's alleged request during a meeting with his aides, and a local media outlet revealed the transcript of Tae's remarks recorded by one of the aides. Tae has since denied Lee made such a request, saying he made an exaggeration of what was said during the call with Lee.



He also came under fire after branding the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) as "JMS DPK," referring to JMS, a controversial religious group embroiled in a series of sexual harassment cases involving its leader. Tae said J stands for junk, M for money, and S for sex.



Tae, Pyongyang's former deputy ambassador to Britain, defected to Korea in 2016 and was elected as a lawmaker here in 2020, becoming the first North Korean defector to do so.



The PPP runs a four-tier disciplinary system, which ranges from a warning to a maximum 3-year suspension in party membership, a recommendation to leave the party and an expulsion. (Yonhap)


Orna Guralnik Source: Showtime

Not long after I began working as a personal finance reporter at CNBC in 2018, I started psychoanalysis. The form of therapy had long intrigued me, with the intensity of its three sessions a week and its search for answers among our dreams and pasts. Because I'd heard that psychoanalysis was ridiculously expensive, however, I figured my main exposure to it would be in New Yorker cartoons. Then a friend from graduate school told me about The William Alanson White Institute on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, where analysts in training saw patients for as little as $15 a session. Thinking back on it now, it was probably something similar to what had driven me to study journalism that landed me on the couch in my early 20s  an abiding feeling that the stories people tell leave a lot out. Over the next few years, my sessions with my psychoanalyst helped me to be more understanding as I reported on the money issues people faced. I was realizing how wide the gap could be between what we know we should do with money and what we actually do. What else could explain why, even as I wrote stories about the risks of credit card debt, I often put too much on my own cards? Or why, even as I explained to readers the massive benefits of starting to save early, I found myself delaying doing so? More from Personal Finance

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A recession may be coming  here's how long it could last These are the types of mysteries that psychoanalyst Orna Guralnik tries to solve for her patients. When I first saw Guralnik's documentary series "Couples Therapy" on Showtime, in which she provides therapy to real patients in a room with hidden cameras, I couldn't look away. Despite how confounding or even hopeless the situation between the two people before her appeared, Guralnik was again and again able to draw connections and make observations that made them rethink the stories they were telling about themselves and each other. As a personal finance reporter, I can make the answers sound easy. Take these steps to get out of debt. Do these things to stop overspending. What interests me most about the sessions with Guralnik is how she stays away from advice. Instead, she asks questions that take her deeper and deeper into the lives of the people on her couch. I wanted to ask her about relationships and money, and got the chance to do so at the end of April, just when the new episodes of Season three of "Couples Therapy" premiered. (Our interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.)

'Money is a very important point of contact with reality'

Annie Nova: How hard is it for people to talk about money? Orna Guralnik: Very hard. It takes a long time in treatment to get into it. Sometimes, I find people are more private about money than their sex life. AN: Why do you think that is? OG: In American society, money locates you in the social structure more than anything else. It really puts you in your place. If you want to go deeper, a lot hangs on money in terms of people's self-worth. Who are they in comparison to the people around them? You could give it Oedipal meanings. Did they manage to surpass their parents, or not? AN: What do people risk by avoiding talking about money with you? OG: Money is a very important point of contact with reality. People can have all sorts of fantasies and ideas about themselves. But money is feedback from the real world. So, when we don't talk about money, we're shielding ourselves from knowing reality. AN: And what's the danger there? OG: It's risky business. You can't take care of yourself if you don't deal with reality. We learn from reality. We grow from reality. If we defend against it, if we're so fragile and anxious that we don't want reality, we get stuck. And ultimately, we kind of crumble inward. Reality is good. AN: Any advice for people who tend to avoid their financial realities? OG: I'm a psychoanalyst. Our advice is always, 'Open up inward. Be honest with yourself.' Pain is OK. You can withstand the pain. Ignoring the problem or defending against it is ultimately more painful than the truth.

For couples, often, 'the breakup is not about money'

AN: What are the biggest differences around money for couples? OG: People know how to be different about so many things. Some people are frugal and can lean towards the obsessive side. Some people do not have any impulse control, and they hate thinking about the future. So, any conversation about budgeting or planning is excruciating.

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AN: My father would often joke, 'When money doesn't come through the door, love goes out the window.' Do you see couples break up over financial issues? OG: From my perspective, the breakup is not about money. The breakup is about not being able to negotiate differences. Money is one of those touchstones with reality that can make it very clear that the two can't agree or can't find a way to problem-solve together. AN: At one point in the new batch of episodes, one couple  Kristi and Brock  say they're concerned that a big reason they're moving in together is to save money. Presumably, they'll be splitting rent and expenses. It seems like money can be just another way couples help each other, but the subject seems to get fraught so quickly. What do you make of their fear? OG: Kristi and Brock are idealists, and I love them for that. For them, doing something for financial reasons compromises their idealistic spirit. They believe they should be moving in for love, not financial easement. But the idea that marriage is a response to love is a pretty modern idea. Marriage has always been, first of all, a way to create a structure that protects people. It is there to protect the financial unit. So, I'm cool with the fact that finances are a part of the reason people are together.

'People may overspend as a kind of protest'
Russia launched a new wave of attacks on Ukrainian cities Kyiv, Odesa and Kherson, just one day ahead of Moscow's planned Victory Day celebrations on Tuesday, which feature a large military parade and commemorate the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in 1945.

The Victory Day parade has come to encapsulate Russian President Vladimir Putin's vision of his country, and is set to go ahead despite some concern over a recent alleged drone attack on the Kremlin.

Meanwhile, Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin has backtracked on his threat to pull his fighters out of the war-torn city of Bakhmut after he announced that Russian military officials agreed to send his group ammunition he said was badly lacking. Wagner Group combatants have spearheaded Russian fighting in Bakhmut, which has become the scene of the war's longest and bloodiest battle.
Pacific Western Bank signage is displayed outside of bank branch in Beverly Hills, California on May 4, 2023.

Check out the companies making the biggest moves in premarket trading:

PacWest  The regional bank popped 39% in premarket trading, adding to its nearly 82% gain on Friday. PacWest said its business is "fundamentally sound" and cut its dividend by just 1 cent per share. Western Alliance gained about 11%, while Zions Bancorp added nearly 6%.

Occidental Petroleum  The energy stock dipped less than 1% in premarket after Warren Buffett said Berkshire Hathaway doesn't plan on taking full control of the oil giant. The "Oracle of Omaha" has amassed a stake of 23.5%, while receiving approval to purchase up to 50% of the company.

Berkshire Hathaway  The conglomerate's B shares rose 1.4% in premarket after Buffett's company reported a 12.6% jump in operating earnings in the first quarter. The strong performance was driven by a rebound in the conglomerate's insurance business. Overall earnings also rose sharply thanks in part to gains in its equity portfolio, led by Apple .

Estee Lauder  Shares jumped 4.2% in premarket trading following a Sunday report from the New York Post that activist investor Nelson Peltz was contemplating a "possible shakeup" at the beauty products company. The campaign would reportedly target CEO Fabrizio Freda.

AMC  AMC shares slid 3% in the premarket after the movie theater chain said it reached an agreement to settle a shareholder class action against the conversion of AMC Preferred Equity Units into common company shares, as well as a reverse stock split. Investors approved the decision in March.

American Airlines  Shares gained about 3% in premarket trading Monday after JPMorgan upgraded the stock to overweight from neutral. Analyst Jamie Baker highlighted the company's attractive valuation and said the "Big 3" airlines  American, Delta and United  are pulling away from the broader field of providers.

Tyson Foods  Shares of the food production company tumbled 9% after Tyson cut its annual sales outlook and posted an unexpected loss for its latest quarter, according to FactSet. It also warned of a 4% decrease from the previous year in domestic beef production and flat pork production.

Viatris  Shares added 2.4% after the health-care stock topped earnings expectations and reaffirmed full-year guidance, despite a shortfall in revenue. Viatris posted $932.9 million in adjusted net income for the first quarter, ahead of the consensus estimate of $835.8 million from analysts polled by FactSet. Revenue came in at $3.72 billion against a forecast of $3.8 billion.

Fortinet  The cybersecurity company added 3.3% after being upgraded to buy from neutral by Bank of America. The Wall Street firm cited Fortinet's solid execution and strong underlying demand.

 CNBC's Yun Li, Brian Evans, Alex Harring, Sarah Min and Tanaya Macheel contributed reporting.
The recent selloff in Vitru shares presents an attractive entry point opportunity, according to Morgan Stanley. Morgan Stanley upgraded Vitru shares to overweight. Meanwhile, the bank's price target of $22 implies shares rallying 69.5% from Friday's close. The stock jumped almost 8% during Monday's trading session. Shares of the Brazil-based digital education company have plunged 44% since March, as of Friday's closing price. However, Morgan Stanley thinks the decline wasn't due to the company's fundamentals, but rather was "exacerbated" by the stock's limited liquidity. VTRU YTD mountain Vitru stock "We believe this represents an attractive entry point opportunity and Vitru should continue to deliver good operating and financial performance," analyst Javier Martinez de Olcoz Cerdan wrote in a research note. "Following last month's large de-rating, reducing the multiple gap with peers, VTRU is a company that does not need FIES to continue delivering the best earnings momentum in the sector, given its [distance learning] focus and solid execution," said Martinez. Brazil's new government under President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has been vocal about expanding the country's higher education financing fund known as Fundo de Financiamento ao Estudante do Ensino Superior, according to the analyst. "FIES expansion could be a game changer, potentially doubling an out-of-fashion sector or not," said Martinez, adding that its impact would depend on the size of the program, distribution rules and how funds would flow to companies. The analyst thinks other factors that will help Vitru continue to deliver strong results are "margin improvement with commercial and OPEX synergies, and generation of FCF after interest expenses to pay debt obligations despite having high leverage (~4x proforma)." "Vitru is the best-positioned player to capture the [distance learning] opportunity," added Martinez. CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Investors looking to trade the showdown over the U.S. debt ceiling should focus on stocks that are tied most to government spending, according to Citigroup. Lawmakers have been trying to find a way to raise the debt ceiling so the government can pay its bills on time. On Sunday, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned failing to raise the debt ceiling will cause a " steep economic downturn ." She also repeated the government may run out of money to pay its debts as soon as June 1 . As the fight over the debt ceiling  and talks of spending cuts  ramp up, some stocks will trade down, Citi pointed out. "We do not believe U.S. equities are pricing in enough event risk around a debt ceiling standoff even though U.S. credit default swap markets have moved significantly year-to-date," U.S. equity strategist Scott Chronert wrote in a note Friday. That could present an opportunity to buy put options on the stocks Citi says are vulnerable, giving the holder the right to sell the underlying stock shares at a predetermined price before the contract expires. To find those stocks, the Wall Street firm first looked for companies that have meaningful direct or indirect revenue exposure to the U.S. government. The direct revenue-exposure companies had at least $500 million in market cap and at least $250 million in U.S. government revenue, representing more than 5% of the companies' top lines. Its indirect exposure stock names also had at least a $500-million-market cap. In aggregate, they had more than 5% of revenue tied to those stocks with the most direct exposure. "While relative performance of these exposures could be a good event hedge, we argue that the relative volatility setup of the underlying stocks and related ETFs may prove most effective and durable," Chronert wrote. "Our bias is to consider classic hedges that can be quickly reupped or unwound rather than a two pronged 'sell the concern, buy the Resolution,'" he added. Chronert then added a volatility screen to his list of direct- and indirect-exposure stocks. He looked at the current options pricing setup and found 19 names with at least 10,000 open contracts where 30-day and 90-day at-the-money implied volatility is below that of the SPDR S & P 500 ETF Trust . Here are 10 of those stocks. The list is dominated by the aerospace and defense sector, and includes companies such as Boeing , Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman , all of which are prime contractors for the Pentagon. Boeing, which has implied 30- and 90-day volatility just above 20%, produces aircraft for the military in contracts worth billions of dollars. Arlington, Virginia-based Boeing recently posted a revenue beat , although its adjusted loss per share came in higher than expected at $1.27 versus an estimate of $1.07, according to Refinitiv. Boeing also said in its commercial unit, it plans to boost production of 737 Max planes to 38 per month. Shares are up about 4% year to date. General Electric also receives a good deal of government spending. In its 2022 annual report , released in February, GE touted the nation's growing defense budget and its XA100 fighter engine for the F-35 fighter jet. GE posted a revenue and earnings beat when it reported first-quarter results in late April. The stock is up about 54% so far this year. Due to the heavy weighting of the aerospace and defense sector, Chronert also looked at the sector's U.S.-listed exchange-traded funds. Chronert believes the iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense , SPDR S & P Aerospace & Defense and Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETFs "could be useful off-the-shelf trading tools to consider."  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed reporting.
Former President Donald Trump boards his airplane after speaking at a campaign event in Manchester, New Hampshire, April 27, 2023.

A judge Monday barred former President Donald Trump from making public evidence and other material related to a pending criminal case against him in New York, where he is charged with falsifying business records related to a 2016 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels.

Judge Juan Merchan also barred Trump from viewing evidence in the case other than in the presence of his lawyers. The ex-president is not allowed to copy the material.

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office sought the protective order due to concerns Trump would "inappropriately" use the material or post the information on social media or elsewhere.

A prosecutor at a hearing last week in Manhattan Supreme Court called that risk "substantial."

Trump's lawyers opposed that request, which relates to so-called discovery material, the documents, correspondence and other items exchanged between opposing parties in a legal case before trial.

Trump, who is the leading contender for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, was arraigned in court last month in the case. He has pleaded not guilty.

His former lawyer, Michael Cohen, shortly before the 2016 presidential election paid Daniels, whose legal name is Stephanie Clifford, $130,000 to keep her quiet about an alleged sexual tryst with Trump years earlier.

Trump denies having sex with Daniels, but reimbursed Cohen for the payoff, which was claimed to be for legal expenses in business records.
Sophie Nistico seemed to have all the pieces in place for a big investment deal on ABC's "Shark Tank."

Nistico is the founder of Trumbull, Connecticut-based apparel brand See The Way I See, which sells clothing emblazoned with mental health-related phrases. She started her business in 2020 with just $500, she said on Friday's episode of the show.

By the time of the episode's taping, it had brought in $2.3 million in year-to-date sales, Nistico said. She spent no money on advertising, due to a large social media presence, and had more than $400,000 in the bank, she added. She was only 24 years old.

Nistico, who said she started See The Way I See after battling "severe" anxiety throughout high school and college, asked the show's panel of investors for $250,000 in exchange for 10% of her company's equity.

"I have zero background in business, my family has zero background in business and I just feel like I'm hitting that point where I need a mentor," she said.

Every investor declined, for a simple reason: They didn't see any way to help her get better. "What do you need a Shark for? You're doing so well," Daymond John told her.

"You are making a boatload of money," Mark Cuban added. "You're a star."

When Nistico first launched See The Way I See, she sold "mental health-based" stickers on social media. She thought it'd take months to sell out, but it "only took two days," she said. The success of her stickers allowed her to expand into apparel.

The ability to make that happen isn't common, no matter how much experience  or lack thereof  you may have, the show's investors told Nistico.

"I don't really know how to help you," said Kevin O'Leary. "This thing where you don't know anything about business, I don't really buy it anymore. You're doing better than 90% of the people who stand in front of me there."

Cuban and Lori Greiner took it a step further, saying it would feel morally wrong to take a percentage of Nistico's company without being able to offer her mentorship in return. Instead, Cuban gave Nistico some heart-to-heart advice.

"Let your community grow your business, not a team," Cuban said. "Be who you are to your community and you'll grow with it. And you don't want an investor for that, because you're already putting money in the bank and all we'd be doing is taking what you earned."

"We're sorry we wasted your time," John joked.

Ahead of the episode's premiere, Nistico expressed the nerves she felt in an Instagram post. "If you know me, you know my number one biggest fear is public speaking," she wrote, adding: "I wanted to prove to myself, and to others who struggle with their own mental health that they're more capable than they think."

On screen, she seemed both surprised and motivated by the investors' praise.

"That was really difficult for me to do, but they really did give me a boost of self-confidence," Nistico said. "After today, I really feel as though I can do anything."

Disclosure: CNBC owns the exclusive off-network cable rights to "Shark Tank."

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  Motorcycle taxi firm Move It, backed by Grab Philippines, is eyeing partnering with more brands to provide additional income stream for drivers, with advertising campaign materials flaunted on their safety vests.

In a statement Monday, Move It said the commission riders would get from its Advertisers Vests Program would be on top of the in-app bookings and post-service tipping.

The company has so far teamed up with Shell, Caltex, Mobil, Tyremart Inc., and Generika for exclusive deals for its rider-partners.

Move It is intensifying efforts to attract more rider-partners into its platform and support the Philippine government in its goal of improving the state of the transport industry, it said.

Move It did not disclose how many drivers are now on board its platform. But based on a previous order from transportation authorities, each motorcycle taxi firm must only have 15,000 riders in Metro Manila, and 9,000 riders in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro.

Late last year, Move It called on the government to pass a law to stabilize the operations of motorcycle taxis so the industry could welcome more players servicing Filipino commuters.

The governments pilot program on motorcycle taxis began in 2019.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  The Sandiganbayan has convicted former Maguindanao governor Datu Sajid Islam Ampatuan anew of graft and malversation of public funds.

In a 75-page decision dated May 5 but only released to media on Monday, the court found Ampatuan and former provincial budget officer Datu Ali Abpi Al Haj guilty of violating RA 3019 as amended (Anti-Graft& Corrupt Practices Act), slapping them with penalty of imprisonment from six years and one month minimum to 10 years maximum.

For malversation of public funds, the anti-graft court said each of them would get a maximum of 18 years and eight months of reclusion temporal.

The court stressed that irregularities marred the bidding and delivery documents of supposed various food supplies.

The glaring infirmities in the pre-procurement, procurement, and disbursement processes convince this Court that there was, indeed, unity of purpose among the accused, the document read.

The Sandiganbayan said the former Maguindanao officials caused undue injury to the government by disbursing public funds in favor of fictitious contractor, and for which no delivery of the supposed procured items was undertaken.

Both the accused also face perpetual disqualification from public office.

The court likewise ordered them to pay a fine amounting to 16.317 million.

However, Amputuan and Haj were acquitted from charges of falsification of public documents after prosecutors failed to prove they were guilty.

The decision was signed by Associate Justices Maria Theresa Mendoza-Arcega, Rafael Lagos, and Maryann Corpus-Manalac.




Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  The National Police Commission (Napolcom) received the recommendation of a panel to accept the resignation and filing of complaints against four high-ranking officials over their alleged involvement in illegal drug activities, authorities confirmed Monday.

The two generals and two colonels were formerly from the Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG), the anti-illegal drug unit of the national police.

In a press briefing, Interior Secretary and Napolcom Chairman Benhur Abalos said the commission will handle administrative cases against the four police officers.

READ: PNP to file administrative, criminal raps vs. 49 PDEG officials

Criminal complaints will also be filed against the four officials to be handled by the Deputy Ombudsman for Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices, Abalos said.

He said the names of the four police officers will be disclosed once the cases are filed..

Maski tanggapin ang resignation, tuloy-tuloy ang kaso laban sa mga ito, [Translation: Even if we accept the resignations, the charges against them would be pursued.] he said.

The five-man advisory panel also recommended the rejection of courtesy resignations of 917 police officers, whom Abalos said are all cleared of any involvement in the investigation, while 32 other officers will go through further investigation.

Abalos previously said this initiative was part of the administrations efforts to cleanse the PNP pf supposed ties to illegal drugs.

Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda said he is expecting an aggressive and honest police force after the investigation.
China, Vietnam release 100 mln fish into Beibu Gulf

Xinhua) 13:31, May 08, 2023

NANNING, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Agriculture authorities of China and Vietnam jointly released some 100 million fish and shrimps in the Beibu Gulf waters on Saturday afternoon.

The event, aimed at restoring fishery resources in the Beibu Gulf, jointly held by the two countries, took place in the border city of Fangchenggang, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

During this year's event, aquatic organisms of eight species, including black sea bream, yellowfin sea bream, and prawn, were released into the Beibu Gulf waters.

China-Vietnam fishery cooperation has a long history, and the positive interactions and cooperation between the two countries in this and other fields have brought tangible benefits to the people of both sides, Ma Youxiang, vice minister of agriculture and rural affairs, said at the event.

Since 2017, China and Vietnam have conducted five similar events in the Beibu Gulf, with over 226 million fish and shrimps released by China.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Hong Kong human rights lawyer Chow Hang-tung is seen inside a vehicle after being detained in Hong Kong, in this Sept. 8, 2021, photo. Reuters-Yonhap



By Jun Ji-hye



The Chinese government expressed its opposition to the selection of Chow Hang-tung, a prominent pro-democracy activist in Hong Kong, as the winner of this year's Gwangju Prize for Human Rights.



According to the May 18 Memorial Foundation that presents the award, Monday, three officials from the Chinese consulate in Gwangju, including the consul general, visited the office of the foundation to have a talk with Chairman Won Sun-seok.



During their talk, the trio urged the foundation to reconsider its plan to present the human rights award to the 38-year-old activist, claiming that she is a "criminal who took part in a violent protest that inflicted damage on China."



The foundation rejected the request, saying a country should not intervene in a decision made by a private institute.



On May 2, the foundation announced its decision to present this year's prize to Chow, a human rights lawyer who continued the struggle for democracy in Hong Kong by hosting a candlelit vigil in memory of the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre.



In 2021, Chow led the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements, which organized Hong Kong's annual June 4 candlelight vigil for victims of Beijing's deadly suppression of the protests, despite the newly enacted national security law.



Chow is in prison now, as she was arrested in September 2021 and sentenced to 15 months in prison for violating the law.



The foundation said Chow was recognized for her brave struggle despite life-threatening scenarios that emerged after the enactment of the law. It noted that she has been a symbol of courage and hope for the people of Hong Kong.



The foundation rejected the Chinese officials' request to withdraw the award plan, saying a country should not block an award presented by a private institute.



"A country should respect a private institute's assessment in relation to human rights and its decision to present an award," Won said. "The award does not mean that we express our opposition to the state system in China. We hope the Chinese government does not respond sensitively to our award."



The Gwangju Prize for Human Rights was established in 2000 to mark the spirit of the pro-democracy movement in Korea's southwestern city in 1980 and honor those who fight for human rights and peace.



This year's awards ceremony will take place on the anniversary of the Korean movement. A representative of Chow is expected to receive the award on her behalf.


Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  Supply in the Luzon power grid was back to normal Monday evening after the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) raised red and yellow alerts earlier in the day.

The private grid operator announced the status in an advisory at 8:26 p.m.

The grid was on red alert from 1 p.m., which meant supply was not enough to meet demand that resulted in power outages in some provinces.

NGCP earlier said the red alert was raised as five power plants were on forced outage, while three others had low output.

The alert was downgraded to yellow by 6 p.m., which meant power reserves were thin. Power was restored in parts of Luzon before the yellow alert was lifted.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  Results of the investigation on the 990 kilograms of local methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu seized in October last year may be released soon, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported Monday.

In the coming days ay makukumpleto na rin yung investigation ng SITG (Special Investigation Task Group) as well as yung fact-finding board na ginawa ng Napolcom (National Police Commission), PNP spokesperson Jean Fajardo said in a press briefing.

[Translation: In the coming days, the investigation of the SITG (Special Investigation Task Group) as well as the fact-finding board created Napolcom (National Police Commission) will be completed.]

The major drug bust last year came to light after Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos disclosed an attempt to cover up Police Sergeant Rodolfo Mayos arrest.

READ: Abalos urges PNP officials linked to 6.7-B shabu haul to go on leave

Authorities seized nearly a metric ton of shabu worth 6.7 billion in Mayo's property.

Maj. Gen. Eliseo Cruz, PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management chief, earlier said 49 personnel from PNP-Drug Enforcement Group, including its former chief PBGen. Narciso Domingo, will be facing complaints over their alleged involvement in the drug bust.

READ: PNP to file administrative, criminal raps vs. 49 PDEG officials

Meanwhile, in a bid to halt police involvement in illegal drugs, Fajardo said the PNP will implement stricter vetting among personnel assigned to drug enforcement operations.

She said the PNP will also limit the term of police personnel assigned to drug operations to two years to avoid familiarity with the system.

Ika nga, masyado ka nang matagal dyan. Siguro it is high time na alisin ka na dyan para hindi ka na dumating doon sa punto na medyo nakain ka na ng sistema, Fajardo added.

[Translation: I mean, you've been there too long. Maybe it's high time to get you out of there so that you don't get to the point where you're a bit fed up with the system.]

Without disclosing a specific number, Fajardo said they have already filed numerous cases against police personnel involved in illegal drugs activities.

She said police personnel assigned to drug enforcement stations are currently undergoing periodic review of their performance and drug-related cases they previously handled.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8)  The government should make sure funds are still available to buy COVID-19 vaccines despite the World Health Organization (WHO) declaration that the virus is no longer a global health emergency, an infectious diseases expert said Monday.

I dont think we need to really depend now on donation. Kailangan maglaan talaga ng budget ang government natin in terms of how are we going to incorporate COVID-19 vaccination doon sa regular vaccination program, Dr. Rontgene Solante told CNN Philippines The Source.

[Translation: The government needs to allocate budget in terms of how are we going to incorporate COVID-19 vaccination in the regular vaccination program.]

On May 5, the WHO said the COVID-19 infection is no longer a global health emergency after three years since the coronavirus outbreak in January 2020.

In line with the WHO decision, the Department of Health said it will convene with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases to "discuss and reassess policies and other guidelines affected by the [WHO's] declaration.

Despite the COVID-19 alert downgrade, Solante said the disease is still an important health issue since the virus can cause highly transmissible mutations that can drive infections up.

The expert also said countries should continue to equip the health care system, pursue vaccination, and make sure countermeasures are available like antiviral agents and diagnostic tests.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis Escudero urged the government to make public funds spent on COVID-19 vaccines.

"If we penalize an ordinary government worker for failing to liquidate his local travel expenses then why should billions in vaccine purchases be exempt from that accountability? he said.

The senator said disclosing the amount "will end the national guessing game as to the amount involved as agencies report different values.

Escudero also said the government cannot forever hide behind non-disclosure agreements (NDA) it signed with vaccine manufacturers.

Officials from the previous and present administration have cited NDAs in their refusal to disclose the prices of COVID-19 shots purchased by the government.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee in February said it obtained information on some of the NDAs signed by the government to procure COVID-19 vaccines, including the amount spent for each shot.

Details can be discussed in a public hearing once the vaccine manufacturers allow it, panel chairman Francis Tolentino said.
(CNN)  Chinas foreign minister said Monday a series of erroneous words and deeds by the United States had placed relations between the two superpowers on cold ice, but stabilizing ties is a top priority.

Qin Gang made the comments during a meeting in Beijing with US ambassador Nicholas Burns, their first since a dispute over a Chinese balloon shattered efforts to mend ties earlier this year.

Qin said US actions and words had undermined hard-won positive momentum following Chinese leader Xi Jinpings meeting with US President Joe Biden in Indonesia last year.

The agenda of dialogue and cooperation agreed by the two sides has been disrupted, and the relationship between the two countries has once again hit the cold ice, he said according to a Chinese Foreign Ministry statement.

In a brief post on Twitter, Burns said he and Qin discussed challenges in the US-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication.

Tensions between the worlds two biggest economies soared in February after a suspected Chinese spy balloon flew over the continental US and was subsequently shot down by the American military.

The incident prompted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to postpone a planned trip to Beijing  a visit seen as an important step in repairing fraught diplomatic ties that are at their worst in decades. There has been no indication whether the trip will be rescheduled.

The top priority now is to stabilize Sino-US relations, avoid a downward spiral and prevent any accidents between China and the US, Qin told Burns, according to the Chinese readout. This should be the most fundamental consensus between China and the US.

Qin urged the US to reflect deeply and meet China halfway to push bilateral relations out of their current predicament.

(The US) cant talk about communication on the one hand, but keep suppressing and containing China on the other hand, he said, adding that Washington must respect Chinas bottom lines and stop undermining its sovereignty, security and development interests  in particular on the issue of Taiwan, a self-governing democracy Beijing claims as its own.

Reiterating Beijings talking points, Qin urged the US to stop the hollowing out of the one China principle and end support for Taiwan independent forces.

Under Washingtons longstanding one China policy, the US acknowledges Beijings position that Taiwan is part of China, but has never officially recognized the Chinese Communist Partys claim to the democratic island of more than 23 million. Under the Taiwan Relations Act, Washington is also bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself.

Under Xi, China has ramped up economic, diplomatic and military pressure on Taiwan in recent years, increasing fears he may one day make an attempt to follow through on his goal of reunifying the island with the mainland.

Better channels

Mondays meeting was Qins first with Burns since the former Chinese ambassador to the US was promoted to foreign minister in December.

It also followed Burns comments last week that the US is ready to talk to China.

Our view is we need better channels between the two governments and deeper channels, and we are ready to talk, Burns said at an event at the Stimson Center, which he attended virtually.

Weve never been shy of talking, and we hope the Chinese will meet us halfway on this, he said.

Beijing cut off talks with Washington on major issues, from climate change to military relations, in August last year in response to then US House Speaker Nancy Pelosis high-profile visit to Taipei.

The two sides resumed climate talks following Xi and Bidens meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Bali, Indonesia last November.

Burns told the Stimson Center event that the US has been calling on China to open all of the channels suspended following Pelosis Taiwan trip. He reiterated Blinkens visit to China would be rescheduled when conditions are appropriate.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "China says relations with US on cold ice, but stabilizing ties a top priority"
In the last three years, Colorado has endured the three largest wildfires and the single most destructive wildfire in the state's history. On Saturday, lawmakers passed a bill they hope will help prevent future disasters.

House Bill 1273 seeks to create a grant program to incentive homeowners to make their houses more resilient against wildfires. The grants would fund changes such as replacing roofs and sidings with non-flammable materials, enclosing soffit vents to prevent ambers from being sucked inside, or even just moving burnable vegetation 100 feet away.

The bill cleared its last legislative vote on Saturday, now only needing the governor's approval to become law.

"This is not going to, all by itself, solve the wildfire threat that we have here in Colorado," said bill sponsor Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, "but it's one of the many tools we have that we can utilize."

Under the bill, homeowners could apply for grants to pay for retrofitting or structural improvements to existing houses and other buildings, as well as for new builds and rebuilds. Grant applications would be prioritized by means, favoring low-income homeowners and those seeking to make changes to their primary residences.

The state dedicated $100,000 for the grants  a huge cut back from the original $2 million requested  though Snyder said the grant program would also utilize federal funds which are expected to be made available in the coming months.

The bill passed the Senate in a 26-8 vote on Saturday, following the House's 49-14 passage on Wednesday. Nearly all of the opponents to the Democrat-sponsored bill were Republicans, with only two Democrats voting against the bill: Reps. Elisabeth Epps and Emily Sirota of Denver. Neither spoke on the floor to explain their opposition.

But GOP critics of the bill said protecting homes from wildfires is a matter of personal responsibility, arguing that state tax dollars shouldn't be used to benefit individual homeowners.

"All we ever do is think of ways to tax working families to pay for things like someone else's deck because they live in a fire area," said Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, who voted against the bill. "They knew where they were moving into. ... Why is that the general public's responsibility? Why is that not the homeowner's responsibility?"

Other opponents said the state is investing too many resources in wildfire response and prevention.

Kirkmeyer, a member of the Joint Budget Committee, said the state has dedicated $93 million to the Department of Public Safety for wildfire-related programs over the past three years. Last session, lawmakers passed 11 bills regarding wildfire mitigation.

"We've done bill after bill on this," said Sen. Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, who voted against the bill. "(Homeowners) are going to have to accept the responsibility for where you live and what your risks are."

Proponents of the bill argued that wildfire destruction is a statewide issue that requires government intervention.

The state's most destructive wildfire, the Marshall fire, destroyed over 1,100 homes and businesses in Boulder County in December 2021. The fire was the costliest in state history and the 10th costliest wildfire in U.S. history, causing over $2 billion in losses. While some homeowners have started to make fire-proofing changes on their own, most don't. And that leaves the entire state at risk, they said.

Bill sponsor Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, said making homes more resilient against wildfires will also lower insurance costs for all residents and will help to prevent wildfires from spreading to other communities. But most importantly, he said, it's the right thing to do to help people.

"This is not about people choosing to live in the wildland urban interface. This is about the wildland urban interface coming to them," Roberts said. "These are people who live in not high-value homes where, because of an ongoing drought and extremely dry summers caused by climate change, the wildland urban interface has come to them. They deserve some assistance."

The bill is also sponsored by Rep. Junie Joseph, D-Boulder, who represents the House district where the Marshall fire occurred.

During a public hearing on the bill, Tanya Samaroo said she lost her home in the Marshall fire. Now working to rebuild, Samaroo said she has taken precautions to protect her home from future wildfires, but most in her community have not.

"I'm afraid to go home and live in my non-fire-hardened neighborhood," Samaroo said while testifying in support of HB 1273. "It's like we are in Fort Myers rebuilding our houses in the same way, in the same spots and the next five-foot surge is going to sweep our houses out to sea."

Snyder said it typically costs around $3,000 to $5,000 extra to build a home with wildfire-resilient materials, with costs likely increasing to retrofit existing buildings. Samaroo said it cost her an additional $5,000 to $7,000 to fire-harden her home.

Under the bill, the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control would be responsible for determining the amounts and limits of the grants. Snyder said it's possible the grants could be restricted to around $5,000 per individual, or be used for cost matching or sharing.

The bill will be sent to Gov. Jared Polis for consideration in the coming days. If signed, state funds for the grant program would be transferred on Aug. 15.
Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday.
Monks of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism perform an "ochetuji," which refers to full prostration in Buddhism having five parts of the body touch the ground, near the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, Monday, urging the Japanese government to stop its plans to release radioactive water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear power plant. The protest came one day after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a summit with President Yoon Suk Yeol, Sunday, during which they agreed to allow a group of Korean experts to visit Japan later this month to inspect the planned release of the radioactive water into the ocean. Yonhap
The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form
(Posted May 8, 2023)

By Dedra Cordle, Staff Writer

In the not-so-distant past, the only place Bill and Linda Simpson wanted to go for vacation was Arkansas to visit relatives. Now, they want to travel to destinations all across the country and around the world.

The London couple attributes their decision to broaden their horizons to an email Linda received about a decade agoan email she almost didnt open.

It started as a typical day at work. Linda, a financial analyst at a local university at the time, was scrolling through her inbox when she came across a message from an unknown sender with information about a non-profit organization she had never heard of.

As her finger hovered over the icon to put Youth For Understanding in the trash bin, she paused.

I dont know why, she recalled.

Perhaps it was because the name of the non-profit vaguely reminded her of an ambassadorship her younger daughter joined the year prior. Perhaps it was because she just wanted to know more.

This random email had me very curious, she said.

She took the plunge, read what was inside, and was immediately enthralled by the organizations mission to make a positive impact on the world.

Heres what Linda learned from that email: In the late 1940s, Michigan native Dr. Rachel Andresen traveled to Denmark to meet her husbands family. While there, she saw the devastating effects of World War II. She also saw a glimmer of hope for the future at a ceremony to celebrate the city of lights being turned on for the first time in years after an extended blackout. Andresen was determined to never let the lights go out again.

Over the next several years, Andresen expanded on Minister John Eberlys vision of creating a youth exchange program to bring international students to the United States to live with local families and attend high school for a year. The goal was to break stereotypes, cultivate a respect and understanding of different cultures, and build a better foundation for the world.

After reading this, Linda said she felt she couldnt say no to it.

Until I read that email, I had never even considered being a host family to a foreign exchange student, but I was really intrigued and excited about the prospect, she said.

Before discussing with Bill the possibility of volunteering as a host family, Linda talked it over with her youngest daughter, Raychel, a student at Franklin Heights High School in Columbus at the time. Linda asked her daughter if she would be comfortable having a foreign exchange student live with them for a yearan important question since Raychel had just become accustomed to the freedom of being the only child in the house as her older sister, Reygan, had recently moved out.

Raychel was immediately on board.

She was taking French at her high school and really wanted a French exchange student to come here, Linda said.

Linda and Raychel decided to go full steam ahead with their desire to become a host family.

Its hard to say no to that much excitement, said Bill, who admits hes usually the naysayer of the family.

After applying to become a host family with Youth For Understanding, the Simpsons completed a vigorous screening process to meet federal requirements. Upon receiving the news they were cleared to host, the Simpsons welcomed Anouck, a 15-year-old Parisian, into their home in 2012.

For Bill, the experience of having a French student in his home for a school year shattered the stereotypes he had heard about people from France.

I had heard that they were very passive, very liberal, and, you know, sort of rude, he said.

That was not the case with Anouck, who, Bill said was usually very quiet but always willing to go back and forth with him over their respective viewpoints and lived experiences.

I think she really opened our minds to new things, and we opened her mind to new things, as well, he said.

After Anouck returned to Paris, the Simpsons welcomed Hannah from Bavaria the next year and eventually welcomed Stella from China, Lotte from Germany, Numsai from Thailand, and Rikke from Denmark to their home. This fall, they will welcome Luise who lives in Germany. Bill and Linda moved to London last year, so Luise will attend London High School.

Bill and Linda said opening up their home to foreign exchange students has been one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. They get to nurture these students during their time away from their home country and watch them grow and adapt to the changes taking place during this time in their lives.

We tell them that they are our heroes, and they truly are, Linda said. Most of them are 15 or 16 years old, and theyre coming to a new country for 10 months to live with someone they dont know for those 10 months. Can you imagine doing that? Especially at that age? What they are doing is so brave, and it is such a rewarding experience to be a part of that, to help them adjust and, hopefully, make their time here as good as it can be.

Since becoming a host family with Youth For Understanding, the Simpsons have credited their student-daughters, as they lovingly call them as, with inspiring them to take more risks and to go on more adventures. Although it is not a requirement for host families to take their exchange students on vacation to see the country, Bill and Linda have done just that. They took Anouck to New York City, Hannah to Myrtle Beach, Rikke and Numsai to Niagara Falls, and Stella to Florida so she could visit Walt Disney World.

Over the past several years, Bill, Linda, and Raychel have taken trips overseas to visit Anouck in Paris, Hannah in Germany and Numsai in Thailand. Numsais parents were so appreciative of the Simpsons hosting their daughter that they paid for a boat tour and took them to an elephant sanctuary where they got to bathe the gentle pachyderms.

It was one of the most profound trips I have ever been on, Bill said.

Because they have had such a great experience volunteering as a host family, Bill and Linda have begun recruiting families across the region to consider taking a leap of faith and hosting a foreign exchange student.

Linda will be out and about at fairs and festivals in Franklin and Madison counties this spring and summer to talk about Youth For Understanding, to share her stories, and to hopefully inspire others to follow in her and Bills footsteps.

I am so glad I opened that email and decided to take the plunge, she said.

According to Jamie Withem, a community manager who oversees Ohio for Youth For Understanding, the non-profit organization is looking for host families of all kinds. She said it doesnt matter if you have children, if you are single, an empty-nester, or a same-sex couple; if you believe you would be a good family or person to host a foreign exchange student, you should give it some consideration.

It can be hard and it can be fun, but I feel it is always worth it because you really are making a difference in the world, she said.

To learn more about Youth For Understanding, visit yfuusa.org. Withem said questions can be sent to her via email at jwithem@yfu.org or by calling (419) 972-5993.
You probably review your IT systems regularly to determine what is in need of replacement or upgrade, but what about your phone system? Does it date back to the last century? If so, youre missing out on new technologies that can increase productivity and support a more distributed workforce.

Phone systems are traditionally based within the corporate headquarters, but you can instead opt for a modern, cloud-based, all-in-one communication platform that requires no hardware to be deployed anywhere within your offices. All you need is a big internet pipe.

Thats where Unified Communications as a Service, or UCaaS, comes in.

What is UCaaS?

UCaaS is the software-as-a-service version of Unified Communications (UC) software, which combines of multiple communication technologies and strategies into a single, comprehensive, and integrated platform.

Communications technologies are typically separated and siloed, but with UC and UCaaS, all of the technologies  telephony (voice calling, voicemail, call forwarding), messaging (one-on-one and group chat), meetings (audio- and videoconferencing), and sometimes other collaboration features such as file sharing and virtual whiteboards  are integrated into one tool.

Traditional UC software can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud, but UCaaS technology is always hosted in the cloud by the service provider, with management access provided to the customer via a web interface. As with other XaaS products, UCaaS customers pay a monthly or annual subscription fee, and the provider, not the customer, is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the technology infrastructure.

End users make use of UCaaS communications from a variety of devices including desk phones, computers, tablets, mobile phones, and meeting room systems. The vendor supplies apps and interfaces that provide a coherent user experience across devices.

In addition to providing communication services, UCaaS platforms typically offer integrations with other business applications such as CRM and productivity apps, simplifying workflows.

UCaaS vs. PBX

UC and UCaaS platforms have been gaining ground on PBX (Private Branch Exchange or Public Branch Exchange) systems, traditional phone systems used to connect office desks together through standard phone lines from a service provider such as AT&T. Most PBXes are analog, which makes them unable to embrace modern technologies. You cant so much as send an SMS text message over a PBX, much less videoconference.

But it is reliable, mature technology that has been around for decades. The phone lines hardly ever go down. Many, if not most, companies already have a PBX system that works fine for them.

Since its legacy hardware, however, PBX technology is not modified easily or quickly. Adding users could mean having expensive support personnel come out to the company site and require days to get the job done. Contrast that with UCaaS, where adding new users can be done in one minute on a website.

UCaaS offers all the features of a traditional PBX but with the flexibility of the cloud, such as the ability to add new services on the fly. And while a PBX uses expensive proprietary hardware installed in your facilities, UCaaS requires no special hardware, just a high-bandwidth internet connection.

That said, UCaaS can carry hidden costs. Like every other as a service, UCaaS pricing scales up with use. That can get away from you, cautions Megan Fernandez, senior principal analyst on the technology and service provider team at Gartner. In a high-use scenario, you could wind up paying more per month with subscription pricing than with a PBX system, especially since the PBX is likely paid for.

But UCaaS doesnt operate in isolation, notes Denise Lund, research vice president for worldwide unified communications and collaboration (UC&C) and telecom at IDC. Unifying communications and integrating them with other business applications can boost efficiency across the workplace.

What makes it cost effective is the fluidity of communications, regardless of what mode is being used, Lund said. If it's sophisticated integration into the enterprise or business software and workflow solutions, it can actually be really efficient in the context of somebody else's workflow.

Is UCaaS right for your organization?

The most important determining factor for whether your organization needs UCaaS is what type of internal IT resources you have within your organization, says Fernandez. If your organization has limited IT resources and not much expertise on telephony equipment, moving to UCaaS gives you the opportunity to offload a large chunk of your IT infrastructure to experts with skills that your team doesnt have.

UCaaS doesnt just favor big enterprises, Fernandez notes. Startups and SMBs can benefit from it too, perhaps even more so than a large enterprise. Well frequently find that small businesses have very limited internal IT staff and [lack] funds to manage that environment. And so there's that interest in making a move to the cloud, she said.

Its also important to ask what youre looking to get out of a UCaaS system that you cant get with a PBX. According to Lund, the two goals driving the majority of interest in UCaaS are increasing employee productivity and improving communication and collaboration with customers. Improving security and governance is another key aim for companies that choose UCaaS.

UC and UCaaS are both designed to help data flow seamlessly across the organization. In modern work environments, data resides in the cloud and in any one of several software databases, where it is constantly being moved, updated, and contextualized  and people may not be able to access it via traditional communications. The more data moves around your organization, the stronger the argument for UCaaS.

Agility and flexibility, particularly in the context of remote and hybrid work, are also driving interest in UCaaS. Its cloud-based, so its accessible from whatever the work location is. Thats a key driver over the last few years, Lund said.

Organizations are also turning to UCaaS to integrate communications with other enterprise software like CRM and project management tools, or with their customer contact center environment. Indeed, many UCaaS providers are expanding their own offerings to include contact center as a service (CCaaS) as well as communication platform as a service (CPaaS), which enables integrations with business applications via application program interfaces (APIs).

The other major factor to consider is that most of the innovation in communication technologies is happening in the cloud. And again, since UCaaS resides in the cloud, customers can add new features on the fly immediately, rather than going through an expensive and time-consuming on-premises deployment. Its almost getting to the stage where its hard to justify investments in on-prem solutions.

If your PBX system is older, its probably approaching the end of its service contract and lifespan, at which point its time to seriously consider a move to the cloud. However, your location may be a mitigating factor. According to IDC, cloud solutions aren't yet optimal everywhere in the world. Not every UCaaS provider has a ubiquitous global presence, and there may be connectivity challenges or a lack of trust in the cloud in some countries and geographies.

Note that if you do migrate to a UCaaS system, that does not mean you have to rip and replace your old PBX immediately. The two can coexist quite peacefully, and you can migrate off the PBX at your own tempo before going fully UCaaS.

Key criteria for choosing a UCaaS platform

Gartner has observed that brand recognition is of high importance to large enterprises shopping for UCaaS platforms. They tend to opt for trusted providers with demonstrable expertise delivering services in large environments. The opportunity to bundle applications and services is typically more important to small businesses, letting them consolidate contracts and acquire more services from a single provider.

Here are some of the key features and needs to keep in mind when choosing a UCaaS provider.

A solid set of communication features

When you start the shopping process, the first thing to look at is what is offered as part of the core services. They should include as many of the following as possible:

Telephony

SMS messaging

Instant messaging

Web/video meetings

Email integration

Collaboration tools

Team presence

Open APIs for app integration

Workflow automation

Cloud file storage

Mobile apps

Artificial intelligence

Call analytics

Online faxing

Of course, your organizations specific needs may weigh some of these features more heavily than others.

Gartners Fernandez cites the mobile experience as a major differentiator between providers. We're finding that since the onset of the pandemic, there's a lot of hybrid and remote work. So mobility considerations play a little bit more importance in that decision, she said.

Uptime and reliability guarantees

One concern with cloud technologies is the potential for downtime. You cannot afford downtime for your communications, so be sure to check the target uptime in a vendors service-level agreement (SLA). Look for a contract that promises five nines (99.999%) availability, Fernandez advised.

Service and support

With your business on the line, how quickly issues get resolved is of utmost importance. Look for 24x7 customer support via phone and chat at a minimum. Higher level plans sometimes offer dedicated support representatives.

Also, all companies are created differently and have different requirements. Your UCaaS provider will have off-the-shelf solutions, but what really matters is how well the service and support team works with the customer for onboarding and customized requirements, plus follow-on support. So you want to choose a provider based on their ability to custom fit to your needs and requirements.

Even with those precautions, you cant always tell in advance how quickly a vendor will fix issues. If an organization delivers poor service, thats really the catalyst to switch providers, Fernandez said.

Security and regulatory compliance

Your UCaaS system must comply with government regulations just as much as a cloud services provider like AWS. Would you want your doctors office to be transmitting your medical records over an unsecured, non-HIPAA-compliant channel?

So make sure that your UCaaS provider checks off all of the security and regulatory requirements of your industry. That means HIPAA compliance for the healthcare industry, for instance, or GLBA and FTC Safeguards compliance for financial institutions.

Integration with other enterprise software

The unified in UCaaS doesnt just mean integrating voice, video, and text chat, it also means integration with your line-of-business applications. Without it you are not very unified. Workflow integration is a must-have, mandatory feature of any UCaaS platform. You want things like click-to-call within a messaging app, automated scheduling of calls and meetings to a users calendar, and other forms of automation, minimizing the amount of manual work that you have to do.

All of the major UCaaS providers offer at least some native integrations, as well as open APIs for custom integrations.

In particular, integration with Microsoft Teams is getting to be more important, said Fernandez. Zoom has become quite popular, but Teams has momentum, thanks to Microsofts ubiquity in the enterprise. Fernandez said there are about 280 million monthly active Teams users globally. That's a pretty significant base of organizations that have enterprise license agreements in place with Microsoft, so the ability to integrate with Teams is getting to be more important, she said.

Whats given Teams so much momentum is a function called direct routing, Microsofts protocol for integrating telephony services from a UCaaS platform into their Teams environment, according to IDCs Lund. It takes the UCaaS system from, say, RingCentral or Verizon and weaves that into the Microsoft Teams collaboration environment. It takes a UCaaS solution and expands it into a true unified communications and collaboration experience, she said.

Teams chief competitor for videoconferencing, Zoom, is evolving rapidly but is still evolving, and it does not have quite the integration with line-of-business applications that Teams currently has, said the analysts.

Additional features and service offerings

Fernandez says the trend to watch for this year is the integration of more and more services under the UCaaS umbrella. For instance, the biggest trend that Gartner is seeing right now is the addition of customer service functions to UCaaS, because it has an external-facing, potentially revenue-generating element.

Lund also cites contact center integration as increasingly important, as well as anything and everything AI. In UCaaS, artificial intelligence is used for everything from noise cancellation and real-time transcription to meeting scheduling and business process automation, with more AI-driven features being added all the time.

Pricing

UCaaS is no different than any other business purchase; you want to shop around among the various vendors. Since they are on-demand, UCaaS solutions are offered as a monthly or subscription. In comparing UCaaS solutions, see what is included in the basic service and how much additional services cost. What could start out as an inexpensive subscription fee can quickly add up if you have to pay for extra features.

6 leading UCaaS vendors

To help you begin your research, weve highlighted some of the leading players in the UCaaS space, with brief descriptions of their strengths and shortcomings. Inclusion in this list is not a buying recommendation, nor is exclusion a sign not to buy.

8x8: 8x8 is a global provider of cloud-based communications and collaboration solutions to businesses of all sizes, from small to extra-large enterprises. It offers what it calls XCaaS (eXperience Communications as a Service), which provides a portfolio of services including voice/telephony, video, chat, contact center, and APIs, with UCaaS, CCaaS, and CPaaS components integrated into a single platform.

Cisco: Cisco is the leader in the networking equipment space, and unified communications is a natural fit. Its UCaaS strategy is built around its Webex platform. The vendor offers a broad portfolio of collaboration services, including voice, video, messaging, presence, conferencing, data content, and mobility, enabling workers to connect and collaborate anywhere, on any device. Cisco has a massive network of 62,000 channel partners worldwide.

Google: Googles telephony, conferencing, and messaging services (Google Voice, Google Meet, and Google Chat) are offered under its Google Workspace platform, which also includes email, calendar, storage, shared documents, and more in an integrated workspace. While Meet and Chat are included with all Google Workspace plans, Voice is an add-on service, available in only about a dozen countries. Google Workspace products are not compatible with legacy landline phone systems, but they do interoperate with newer meeting room hardware from Zoom, Cisco, and others.

Microsoft: Other than Zoom, no company gained more from the Covid-19 lockdowns than Microsoft. Its Teams messaging and meeting app had the advantage of being bundled with the market-leading Microsoft 365 collaboration suite (which includes the Office apps and SharePoint), so it cost Microsoft 365 customers nothing to adopt. Microsoft went into overdrive with Teams, adding a host of meeting and chat features and offering a telephony option, Teams Phone, as an add-on. In 2022, the company expanded its reach, introducing a digital contact center solution that brings together contact center, unified communications, and customer service capabilities in a single, integrated on-demand platform.

Like most Microsoft products, Teams works best within the context of Microsofts environment and doesnt play too well with others. MacOS users in particular have complained about a lack of feature parity between the Mac and Windows versions of Teams.

RingCentral: Unlike some other players on this list, for which UCaaS is one of many businesses, unified communications is all RingCentral does. It supports every global region through partnerships with AT&T, British Telecom, Telus, Vodafone, and Mitel, among others. Focused on providing a cohesive, single platform to customers, RingCentral also offers targeted, vertical-specific services. The company claims the highest levels of reliability, with 13 consecutive quarters of 99.99999% availability.

Zoom: A relative newcomer in this space, Zoom exploded in popularity during the pandemic lockdowns and has become the worlds most popular audio- and videoconferencing product. Its offerings include voice/telephony, meetings, messaging, and contact center. With 8,500 global channel partners, it serves several vertical markets  healthcare, government, education, and financial services  and has its eyes on manufacturing, retail, energy, and legal. As a newer UCaaS vendor, Zoom does not support legacy phone systems but does work with a variety of modern phones and meeting room devices.
Youve probably heard that Windows 11 is a meh operating system. And Windows 12 is little more than a dream at this point. But with Microsoft no longer updating Windows 10 (except for security fixes), whats a PC geek got to do to get the most from Windows now?

In helping people with their computers, Ive found there are often three types of Windows users: Those with a viable computer that supports Windows 11; those with a decent computer that for one hardware reason or another just wont support Windows 11 and those whose PC sorely needs hardware upgrades or an outright replacement to be a viable computer for the next two years.

First, figure out whether your computer still has enough hard drive space, RAM and CPU power (even if it cant support Windows 11 ); if so, your best bet is to make sure youre running Windows 10 22H2 and keep your computer for the next two years. Because there are no more feature releases for Windows 10, youll not have to deal with any new menu notifications, news and interests, or any other major changes as Microsoft moves resources to Windows 11 and Windows 12 development.

If you worry that the lack of feature releases means you no longer have a quick way to fix a misbehaving PC computer, there is still an easy way to get Windows behaving again. Its called a repair install, and even if the computer has issues and wont install updates, you can download an ISO of Windows 10 from the Microsoft download site. Click on download now and save the file MediaCreationTool22H2.exe. Double-click on the executable file, accept the Microsoft license terms (you might want to read them), and choose create installation media.

Microsoft A repair install can get Windows 10 running better, even on older hardware.

Click next, and select the language, edition, and architecture. Finally choose ISO file as the file type and wait until the ISO file is created. Click Finish and youre ready to start the repair install process. (Do make sure you have a backup of your system  just in case of trouble.)

Navigate to that ISO you made, right-click it and select mount, or double-click the ISO and it will mount. Next, click on setup.exe. This starts the repair process of installing Windows 10 atop the existing OS and will not get rid of the data on the drive. Do not start this process using a bootable flash drive on a nonfunctional computer; doing so will pave over your data and programs.

If you have a computer that takes forever to boot and often is unusable, you need to investigate why. As the computer boots up, launch the Windows 10 task manager, right-click on the taskbar at the bottom, and choose task manager. In three columns you can keep an eye on CPU, memory, and disk activity. Let the system fully boot up and see how often one of those three is pegged at a high percentage and perhaps what software is causing the issue. While you may be able to replace the CPU, a laptop or desktop that can be serviced can often benefit from extra RAM and upgrading to an SSD drive.

If your computer is hard to repair or upgrade  for example, if the RAM is soldered to the motherboard or you have to pry the PC apart to service it  then it probably cant be upgraded reliably. For these machines your only option is to hope Microsoft provides Extended Support for Windows 10 much as it did for Windows 7, or to buy hardware that fully supports Windows 11.

If your PC already supports Windows 11, youre good to go for the foreseeable future. And dont worry about those of us whove grumbled about the menu changes in Windows 11. Many of the applications I use still act as they have for years by installing a shortcut on the desktop. (I use a program called Fences to corral desktop icons.) For me and the users in my office, the transition to Windows 11 has been a nonissue.

Of course, its good to keep an eye on whats coming next from Microsoft. We may know more later this month when Microsoft Build takes place (May 23-25, in person and online). This is often when the company begins to pull back the curtain on what it plans going forward. Already, execs have dropped hints at previous events about even more changes for the menu system and more artificial intelligence in the platform.

Im hoping, in particular, to hear more about what hardware requirements Microsoft has in mind for future releases of Windows. Thats the kind of information that will help Windows 10 users best decide the upgrade path they want to pursue.


By William R. Jones



Our friend Casey Lartigue recently opined "What's your mission for North Korea?" in The Korea Times with the public's interrogative: How can I help or get involved? The finalized response was "fundraising and donating" and the setting up of the "How to help North Koreans" project. My beginning stance was to purchase a copy of "Greenlight to Freedom," an unsilenced autobiography. Having read it, I'm glad of my outlay and I'm in agreement with writer John Ruskin: If a book is worth reading, it is worth buying.



The inside and outside of North Korea personal account of the life of Han Song-mi defined reality and depicted that her life did not get altogether easier due to lingering trauma and the need to find the real version of herself.



As her story unfolds, she experiences many rock-bottom lessons arising because she was the product of unbelievable abject poverty and a broken home. By the time she arrived for a 3-month stay at the "Settlement Support Center for North Korean Refugees" a.k.a. Hanawon in Anseong, Gyeonggi Province, she felt almost unable to continue, but she had a long-continued hope and desire. That was, to see her birth mother again, who did escape North Korea when Song-mi was but a child. Her mother "worked her fingers to the bone" and risked her capital to various brokers who guided Song-mi through anguishing, harrying and evasive maneuvers to China, Laos and Thailand.



Even after the elative reunion with her mother in South Korea, Song-mi required professional and psychological consultation. Sensitive and emotional, the want and destitution that threatened life itself through starvation and exposure, and other noxious adhesions and subversions had subconsciously taken its toll upon her. In April of 2018, she posted on social media "Now I am zero," a person of little consequence or significance. Indeed, she felt like an empty quantity. Suicidal thoughts were incurring. She only wanted three things: (1) to discover what she was really like and what she wanted to do (2) an improved mother/daughter relationship, and (3) freedom from uncertainty to expect and make ready for a progressive future. The mental and emotional hygiene counseling proved to be conducive to her well-being.



Overcoming so many cultural barriers, Song-mi endured the bad in order to live to see the good, gaining many friends along her path. She had a story to tell; that story was the reason why she was the way she was. As a refugee, she realized that life didn't get easier, but that she had gotten stronger. She did nothing wrong in her past life and she reinvented her smile. Under favorable conditions, every day, in every way, she is getting better and better.



"Greenlight to Freedom" will engage your interest, and too, tell of abominable and detestable human actions and responses that will forcefully work upon your imagination and impinge upon your mind as you read. In the same vein, I would be remiss if I did not mention the great and wonderful men and women whose actions, responses and commitments have helped so many in finding their way. Kudos to all.





The author (wrjones@vsu.edu) published the novella "Beyond Harvard" and presently teaches English as a second language.


Most of us are perfectly fine singing along to some random guys Spotify playlist without a single clue what the words mean. But this can get us into trouble. Youre flying along the highway, creating a perfect road trip moment with your crew, and the next thing you know, you suddenly realize youre singing about the joys of crystal meth and school shootings.

Rest assured, though, that that will never happen with these songs because they dont mean anything whatsoever

5 I Want It That Way Go up to any group of people born between approximately 1975 and 1992 shriek Tell me why! in their faces, and theyll almost certainly reproduce the rest of the chorus of the Backstreet Boys signature song in perfect five-part harmony. But that same group of people couldnt begin to tell you what the lyrics that are basically etched into their DNA actually mean. What way do they want it? The statement is expressed from two different viewpoints in the song, each time with different desirability (Believe when I say that I want it that way versus I never wanna hear you say, I want it that way). The rest of the lyrics abstractly describe some kind of breakup? Long-distance relationship? Minor disagreement? Its deeply unclear, but nothing is more so than which way who wants it. Play Theres actually a good reason for that. The song was written by Andreas Carlsson and Max Martin, two of the driving forces behind the Swedish songwriting team that was responsible for most of the eras pop hits, from Britney Spears to Bon Jovi. None of those songs make a lot of sense, albeit a little more than this one, because the songwriters barely spoke English. They were just putting together syllables that sounded good, which was a nightmare for the censors who had to figure out exactly in what manner Britneys guy was going to hit her one more time and almost left I Want It That Way dead in the water. The record company was like, We need to bring in maybe another lyricist to help work on this, Carlsson remembered, admitting that the lyric doesnt really mean anything. Advertisement Fortunately for singalong enthusiasts, they regained their faith in the American public to completely disregard the words theyre saying.

4 I Am the Walrus If you had to hazard a guess at what I Am the Walrus is about, youd probably say, Drugs? Is it drugs? And you wouldnt be entirely wrong. According to John Lennon, he came up with the first line of the song during an acid trip and the second line during his next trip, and it wouldnt be at odds with the final product if hed just gone line by line like that. However, Lennons biggest inspiration for writing the song, even beyond drugs, was his exasperation at Beatles fans endlessly overanalyzing his lyrics. The last straw was when a student from his old high school wrote to him that the school was teaching a whole class about Beatles lyrics. He was also pretty grumpy about the success of Bob Dylan, who he believed was getting away with murder by writing nonsense, and became determined to show everyone that he could write that crap, too. Play Advertisement Advertisement The resulting song is a mishmash of lines pulled from other songs and books, including an old nursery rhyme Lennon used to sing as a child, and straight-up nonsense. After writing the line Semolina pilchard climbing up the Eiffel Tower, he was said to grin and declare, Let the fuckers figure that one out! Despite its incoherence, I Am the Walrus still managed to get banned by the BBC because of the line Girl, youve been a naughty boy, you let your knickers down. They might not have known what it meant, but sounds kinda gay was good enough for them in 1967.

3 Break Free Dont come for us, Arianation: Well be the first to absolve Ariana Grande of any blame for the lyrics of Break Free. (But maybe Google Richard Butler and rethink that name, guys.) After all, its not like she wrote them. One glance at the credits does reveal people who should know better, though, including German DJ Zedd, veteran songwriter Savan Kotecha, and well, well, well. Max Martin, we meet again. Play Advertisement Advertisement Even Grande, who had barely, uh, broken free from Disney stardom at that point, found the lyrics so stupid that she flat-out told the double-digit Grammy-nominated songwriter she wasnt going to sing them. I fought him on it the whole time. I am not going to sing a grammatically incorrect lyric, help me, God! she recalled, referring to lines like Now that Ive become who I really are. But Max was like, Its funny  just do it! which only presents us with a further conundrum: Which of these people is worse? (Just kidding, Arianators, its Martin. All hail Ariana.) That said, Grande did make a valiant attempt to defend some of the sillier lines like I only want to die alive, explaining, It means life is so short  theres no reason to not enjoy it and theres no reason you should be anything but yourself. It absolutely doesnt mean that, but good for her for trying. That still doesnt explain why it starts as a love song (If you want it, take it / I should have said it before / Tried to hide it, fake it / I can't pretend anymore) and abruptly transitions to breakup anthem, but we can reasonably chalk that up to standard Max Martin shenanigans. Advertisement

2 Say Youll Be There Theres no cute story about Say Youll Be There, just a lot of gibberish. The verses are all about letting some dude down easy (Last time that we had this conversation, I decided we should be friends, If you put two and two together, you will see what our friendship is for, etc.), but by the chorus, theyre offering to give him everything, all that joy can bring, this I swear, and all they I want from you is a promise you will be there. And what about the bridge: But any fool can see theyre falling? They? Who is they? Just how many guys are the Spice Girls friend-zoning with these maddeningly mixed messages? Play Advertisement Advertisement To hear them explain the song makes nothing clearer. In fact, the whole thing reads like a girl power Spinal Tap. A lot of the sentiment in the song is to do with what weve been through together, Mel C said, clearing nothing up. Weve always been there for each other, so we wrote about that. Victoria added, while possibly high, I immediately saw the two and two is four pun  and tried to explain it to the others, but they didnt get it at first. Theyre no good at maths. Finally, Mel B elaborated that the song means different things to each of us, but basically its saying that when youre in a relationship, you should be there for each other. You dont have to give them the I-love-you bit, because whats important is being there for each other. Advertisement Melanie. Melanie. What the genuine fuck? What does explain it just a little bit is the fact that this was one of the first songs the group wrote with their management at the time. Describing their process, co-writer Eliot Kennedy said, I'd sing them the chorus and the melody  no lyrics or anything  and straight away five pads and pencils came out and they were throwing lines at us. Ten minutes later, the song was written. So it was a song written in the same amount of time as a particularly rough bowel movement by five different people all throwing out lines at the same time. Finally, something that makes sense.


By David Maxwell



By all measures the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States (ROK-U.S.) summit and state visit by President Yoon Suk Yeol was a resounding success. It celebrated the 70-year blood friendship kindled in the heat of battle from 1950-53. It advanced mutual security and mutual prosperity and established a sound foundation for the further evolution of the alliance as a Global Comprehensive Strategic Alliance in the 21st century.



The highlight that has drawn the most attention from supporters and critics alike, as well as heated rhetoric from North Korea, China and Russia, is the Washington Declaration. It seeks to improve extended deterrence, restore confidence in the U.S. commitment to defend South Korea, which keeps the ROK non-nuclear in accordance with the 1992 Agreement on Denuclearization, and establishes a new organization, the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), to ensure respect for the sovereignty of both nations in the event that the U.S. employs its nuclear weapons against a North Korean attack with weapons of mass destruction.



The statements and speeches have been analyzed in detail and all Korea watchers and the press have conducted analyses of the issues that hold their interest. However, there is one statement that has been overlooked.



"The two presidents are committed to build a better future for all Korean people and support a unified Korean Peninsula that is free and at peace."



These 26 words provide the strategic aim for the ROK-U.S. alliance until a free and unified Korea is finally established. They describe the acceptable durable political arrangement that will protect, serve and advance ROK and U.S. interests in Northeast Asia. They must form the foundation for all strategic planning, e.g., they describe the end for which the ways and means must be developed and employed. These relatively few words provide guidance to the alliance, offer hope to the Korean people, provide the solution to the nuclear and military threats, and set the stage for a "United Republic of Korea" (UROK) to achieve new heights in the world.



The second most important words were reiterated a number of times in the joint statement as well as by the actions of the ROK first lady Kim Keon Hee: "human rights." Both presidents stated that they condemn the human rights abuses of the regime and seek to promote the human rights of the Korean people in the north. Kim met with escapees from the North and human rights activists and learned first-hand from them the terrible crimes against humanity being committed by the Kim Jong-un family regime.



The presidents also condemned the Kim family regime for diverting resources that could improve the lives of the people in order to build nuclear weapons and missiles. This should be a major theme in a sophisticated information and influence campaign that is designed to inform, educate and influence the Korean people in the North to seek a better life and prepare for unification.



It is not surprising that the 26 words are overlooked. They have been stated in various ways by the presidents of both countries since 2009. However, the word "unification" seems to create strategic planning paralysis in Korea, the U.S. and the international community. The unification process is complex and fraught with challenges. Most importantly, no one can predict the path to unification or when it might happen. Because of this few want to address it.



Furthermore, some policymakers may not want to address it for fear that it would challenge Kim Jong-un and prevent any negotiated denuclearization agreement. This is despite the fact we know from Kim's own statements and a 2022 law that he will never give up his nuclear weapons.



In addition to 2023 being the 70th anniversary of the ROK-U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty, it is also the 70th anniversary of the Armistice Agreement. Like the 26 words in the 2023 ROK-U.S. joint statement, buried in the Armistice in paragraph 60 is the subtle realization that the only way to end the conflict on the peninsula is through a political settlement that requires a solution to the Korea question. That "question" is the unnatural division of the peninsula. The military commanders who signed the Armistice gave us the solution to denuclearization threats and future conflict: unification.



A human rights upfront approach, a sophisticated influence campaign, and the pursuit of a free and unified Korea are best described as part of a superior political warfare strategy that can accomplish strategic objectives short of war. This is something the ROK-U.S. alliance can execute to achieve mutual interests which include a peaceful and prosperous peninsula and region.



The ROK government and all Korean people can pursue a free and unified Korea from the moral high ground. They can do so by planning for peaceful unification. Although it is Kim Jong-un who has the vote on whether it is peaceful, the option is open to him. However, what is important in overtly planning for peaceful unification is that despite the actual path that might lead to unification (war, regime collapse or new emerging leadership in the north) all the planning for peaceful unification will provide the foundation for the process. Peaceful unification planning efforts will not be wasted.



Although denuclearization of the North remains a worthy goal, it must be viewed as aspirational as long as the Kim family regime remains in power. The conventional wisdom has always been that denuclearization must come first and then unification will follow and that there should be no discussion of unification and human rights out of fear that it would prevent Kim Jong-un from making a denuclearization agreement. Yet no one should be deluded about Kim's intentions. He has told the world he will never denuclearize. His political warfare and blackmail diplomacy strategies completely failed in 2022 because Presidents Yoon and Biden, like their predecessors, refused to make the political and economic concessions he demanded just to come to the negotiating table: namely to remove sanctions.



It is time for the U.S. and the ROK-U.S. alliance to execute a political warfare strategy that flips the conventional wisdom and seeks unification first and then denuclearization. The international community, but most importantly, the people of the ROK-U.S., alliance, that the only way to end the nuclear program and the human rights abuses is through unification of the Korean Peninsula. The ROK and U.S. must continue to maintain the highest state of military readiness to deter war and then adopt a human rights upfront approach, a comprehensive and sophisticated information and influence activities campaign, and focus all efforts on the pursuit of a free and unified Korea.



Presidents Biden and Yoon have provided the strategic guidance for what we all should know to be true: The only way we are going to see an end to the nuclear program and military threats as well as the human rights abuses and crimes against humanity being committed against the Korean people living in the north by the mafia-like crime family cult known as the Kim family regime is through the achievement of unification. This must be a free and unified Korea that is secure and stable, non-nuclear, economically vibrant and unified under a liberal constitutional form of government based on individual liberty, freedom, rule of law and human rights as determined by the Korean people. A free and unified Korea or in short, a United Republic of Korea.





David Maxwell is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces Colonel and has spent more than 30 years in Asia as a practitioner and specializes in Northeast Asian Security Affairs and irregular, unconventional and political warfare. He is the vice president of the Center for Asia Pacific Strategy and a senior fellow at the Global Peace Foundation (where he focuses on a free and unified Korea) and the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies.


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DALLAS (AP)  The man accused of killing eight people and wounding several others in a mass shooting at a suburban Dallas shopping mall researched when it was busiest and posted photos on social media in mid-April of a store near where he ultimately started his attack.

The posts by Mauricio Garcia on a Russian social networking site suggest the 33-year-old had been planning the attack for weeks before he stepped out of a silver sedan and opened fire Saturday. Among the dead were two elementary school-age sisters, a couple and their 3-year-old son, and a security guard.

Garcia's online activity also betrayed a fascination with white supremacy and mass shootings, which he described as sport. Photos he posted showed large Nazi tattoos on his arm and torso, including a swastika and the SS lightning bolt logo of Hitlers paramilitary forces.

Other posts indicated Garcia had researched when the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, one of the Dallas-areas most diverse suburbs, would be the busiest  Saturday afternoons, the time he carried out the massacre, which ended when police shot and killed him.

The online activity contributed to an emerging picture of the gunman Monday. He was discharged from the Army in 2008 because of mental health issues and apparently had been working as a security guard, according to neighbors and an Army official.

Aric Toler, director of training and research at the international research collective bellingcat.com, said he identified Garcias profile on the site OK.RU by searching for active accounts with his birthdate located in the U.S. The AP independently verified the account, which also featured an image of a traffic ticket with Garcias name and birthdate as well as paperwork from a motel where he stayed before the shooting.

Federal agents investigating what motivated the shooting have also reviewed the online posts, according to a federal law enforcement official who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

The official also said Garcia had a patch on his chest when police killed him that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have also interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs and are examining his financial records and other electronic media, the official said.

Garcia joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training, U.S. Army spokeswoman Heather J. Hagan said.

According to an Army official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues, he was kicked out due to mental health issues.

Garcia received an uncharacterized discharge, which is common for recruits who dont make it through training or the first 180 days, according to a defense official who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues. That type of discharge  which is not dishonorable  would not set off red flags or require any reports to law enforcement.

On the Dallas block where Garcia lived at a family home until recently, neighbors said they thought he worked as a security guard but they weren't sure where. The company that manages the mall where the attack happened didn't immediately reply to messages seeking further information.

A woman who lives next door said she didn't know her neighbors well but described them as nice and polite. Garcia was always friendly, waving and honking, she said.

A law enforcement official said investigators also have searched a Dallas motel where Garcia had been staying ahead of the attack.

Amid protests Monday at the Texas Capitol for stricter gun control, two Republicans sided with Democrats to advance a bill that would raise the age to buy semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21, though the measure has little or no chance of actually becoming law.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Just over a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

The community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Medical City Healthcare said Monday it was treating six patients: Three were in critical condition, two were in fair condition and one was in good condition at a childrens hospital. Police said a seventh wounded person was taken to a different hospital.

Allen, which is home to about 105,000 people, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show that Allen's population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online warning of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

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Baldor reported from Washington and Johnson from Seattle. Jamie Stengle and Adam Kealoha Causey in Dallas; Michael Balsamo in Washington; Vanessa Alvarez in New York; James Vertuno in Austin; Michelle R. Smith in Providence, Rhode Island; and Rebecca Boone in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.
BEIRUT (AP)  Airstrikes over southern Syria early Monday killed one of the countrys most well-known drug dealers, an opposition war monitor and a pro-government radio station reported.

The rare attack came days after Jordan warned it would use force inside Syria to eliminate drug trafficking to its territories and from there to oil-rich Arab gulf nations.

The strikes also come a day after Arab governments reinstated Syria to the Arab League following the country's suspension for its crackdown on protests that ultimately led to a lengthy civil war. As Arab governments gradually rekindle ties with Damascus, one of the key topics of discussion has been Syria's illicit drug industry, which has flourished during the ongoing conflict  especially the illegal amphetamine Captagon.

Western governments estimate that Captagon has generated billions of dollars in revenue for President Bashar Assad, his Syrian associates and allies. Damascus has denied the accusations.

The first strike hit a home in the Syrian village of Shuab in Sweida province near the Jordanian border, killing Merhi al-Ramthan, his wife and six children, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The opposition war monitor and Sham FM reported another strike in the southern province of Daraa that hit a building. The Observatory said the building housed a drug factory.

Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist who covers developments in southern Syria, also said that one strike killed al-Ramthan and his family in Sweida province. He said the other hit a facility in Daraa province used by Iran-backed groups to produce and store drugs before smuggling them to Jordan. He said the strikes happened before dawn Monday, igniting a fire at the drug facility in Daraa province.

The pro-government radio station did not give any further details. There was no immediate comment from either Jordanian or Syrian authorities.

Activists and the war monitor said they believe Jordan is likely behind the airstrike, with the Captagon producer among the most wanted by Jordanian authorities for facilitating drug smuggling across the border with the backing of a small militia. They also say al-Ramthan is close with militias linked to Assad and the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah.

Jordanian state media shared news of the airstrike, but only cited Syrian media and added that al-Ramthan was wanted by Jordanian authorities. Jordan's foreign minister at a press conference Monday following a meeting with his Dutch counterpart said Syria had committed to cooperating with Arab countries on drug smuggling during last week's talks in Amman, and that he will call his counterpart in Damascus to translate this agreement into a clear mechanism.

Whenever we take any steps to protect our national security and facing any threats towards it, we announce it at the appropriate time, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. When it comes to the case of drugs, as we said before, the surge in drug smuggling is a huge threat to the kingdom, the region, and the world.

Last week, Safadi warned that his country will not stand idle if drug trafficking continues from Syria.

We are not taking the threat of drug smuggling lightly, Safadi told CNN last week. If we do not see effective measures to curb that threat, we will do what it takes to counter that threat, including taking military action inside Syria to eliminate this extremely dangerous threat.

For us, it is a must that we end this crisis because we've suffered tremendously from its consequences, he said.

Al-Masalameh, the opposition activist, said: "The war planes were believed to be Jordanian following the threats by the foreign minister.

Jordan has frequently reported busting drug smuggling operations on its border with Syria, with its soldiers sometimes engaging in shootouts with drug cartels trying to break through from southern Syria. In recent years, Jordanian authorities have discovered millions of smuggled Captagon pills, many of which were sent to oil-rich gulf nations.

Both Syria and neighboring Lebanon have become gateways for the drug to the wider Middle East, and particularly to the the Gulf.

In March, the U.S. and U.K. slapped sanctions on four Syrians and two Lebanese involved in manufacturing and trafficking Captagon.

The six included cousins of the Syrian president and well-known Lebanese drug kingpins. Weeks later, the European Union imposed sanctions on several Syrians, including members of Assads family, blaming them for the production and trafficking of narcotics, notably Captagon.

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Associated Press writer Albert Aji contributed to this report from Damascus, Syria.
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (AP)  Under a set of white tents at the U.S.-Mexico border in Brownsville, Texas, dozens of Venezuelan men waited. Some sat on curbs and others leaned on metal barricades. When the gates eventually opened, the long line of men filed slowly up the pedestrian pathway to the bridge and across the Rio Grande River to Mexico.

In the past few weeks, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have been facilitating these expulsions three times a day as roughly 30,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have entered the U.S. in this region since mid-April. That's compared with 1,700 migrants Border Patrol agents encountered in the first two weeks of April.

In the other end of the state, in El Paso, officials are dealing with another increase of migrants and worry that thousands more are waiting to cross.

All this comes as the U.S. is preparing for the end of a policy linked to the coronavirus pandemic that allowed it to quickly expel many migrants, and it spotlights concerns about whether the end of the immigration limits under Title 42 of a 1944 public health law will mean even more migrants trying to cross the southern border.

Weve been preparing for quite some time and we are ready. What we are expecting is indeed a surge. And what we are doing is planning for different levels of a surge, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said last week during a visit to southern Texas. But he also stressed that the situation at the border is extremely challenging.

He spoke from a location in Brownsville where U.S. officials had set up a tent and facilities like portable bathrooms for migrants. He said it's difficult to identify the cause of the recent increase in Venezuelan migration, but said the U.S. is working with Mexico to address it and predicted change very shortly.

Many of those crossing the border are entering through Brownsville just north of the Mexican border town of Matamoros. The city was rocked by another crisis Sunday when an SUV plowed into people waiting at a bus stop across from the city's migrant shelter. Eight people, mostly men from Venezuela, died.

Ricardo Marquez, a 30-year-old Venezuelan man, arrived at a shelter in McAllen after crossing the border with his wife and 5-month-old child in Brownsville. They left Venezuela because his daughter needs surgery.

I was confronted with the decision to either stay there or risk it all for my daughter, he said. They had crossed the Rio Grande after spending a month in Matamoros trying to get an appointment through an app the U.S. uses to schedule appointments for people without documents to come to the border and seek entry.

Officials in President Joe Biden's administration say they have been preparing for well over a year for the end of Title 42. The strategy has hinged on providing more legal pathways for migrants to get to the U.S. without risking the perilous journey to the border. That includes things like setting up centers in foreign countries where migrants can apply to emigrate as well as a humanitarian parole process already in place with 30,000 slots a month for people from four countries to come to the U.S.

Starting May 12 they're expanding appointments available through the CBP One app Marquez tried to use. When it was launched many migrants and advocates criticized the app, saying it had technological problems and there simply weren't enough appointments.

The strategy is also heavy on consequences. The U.S. is proposing a rule that would severely limit asylum to migrants who first travel through another country, quickly screening migrants seeking asylum at the border and deporting those deemed not qualified, and a five-year ban on reentry for those deported.

A lot of these consequences have been met with harsh criticism by immigrants' rights groups who have gone so far as to compare the policies to then-President Donald Trump's and say the right to apply for asylum on U.S. soil is sacrosanct. Much of the Biden administration strategy is also facing legal peril in the coming weeks. The proposed rule limiting asylum is almost certain to be the subject of lawsuits. And Republican-leaning states want to stop the Democratic administration's use of humanitarian parole on such a large scale.

The administration has also been increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement flights to remove people from the country  flights like one that took off recently from an airport in Harlingen, Texas. Shortly after dawn three buses pulled up next to a plane. One by one migrants got out of the bus. They were wearing handcuffs and leg restraints and surgical masks. First they were patted down for contraband and then slowly walked up the stairs to the plane. Altogether 133 migrants were sent back to their home country of Guatemala.

But those flights only work if countries accept them. Venezuela does not. And Colombia says it's suspending deportation flights due to cruel and degrading treatment of migrants.

Administration officials say they're using technology to speed up the processing of migrants who cross the border without documentation and using mobile processing, so they can process migrants while they're being transported by bus or van, for example. They've pushed to digitize documents that at one time were filled out by hand by Border Patrol. And they've beefed up the hiring of contractors so agents can remain in the field.

But critics have slammed the administration, saying it's not doing enough. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent U.S. senator from Arizona, said on CBS' Face the Nation on Sunday that the administration wasn't communicating with local officials about things like what type of increase to expect or whether buses would be available to transport migrants. And she said a decision to send 1,500 military troops to the border came too late.

In Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott said Monday he was deploying tactical National Guard teams this week to the busiest crossing spots. Abbott, who for years has accused the Biden administration of not doing enough on the border, also said many thousands more migrants in the coming days will be bused by the state to Democratic-led cities elsewhere in the U.S.

It did not have to be this way," said Abbott, speaking in Austin as Guard members boarded four C-130 cargo planes behind him.

In communities that border Mexico, officials and community groups that care for newly arrived migrants are anxious about what the end of Title 42 means. Sister Norma Pimentel runs Catholic Charities' Humanitarian Respite Center, the largest shelter in South Texas.

The shelter functions mainly as a resource center where migrants can purchase tickets, make calls, eat and rest before traveling to their next destination, where they often have family or other contacts. But, Pimentel said, many of the Venezuelans in this latest migration increase dont have connections in the U.S., making it harder for them to move to the next destination. That becomes a problem for us, she said.

The federal government gives money to communities to help them deal with the increases in migrants. On Friday the administration announced that $332 million had been disbursed to 35 local governments and service organizations. Most goes to communities close to the border due to the urgencies they are confronting, but cities far from the border also get funds.

In the Texas border city of El Paso, about 2,200 migrants are currently camped or living on the streets a few blocks from major ports of entry that connect El Paso with the Mexican city of Juarez. The city is prepared to open up shelters next week if needed at two vacant school buildings and a civic center.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser estimated that roughly 10,000 to 12,000 migrants are in Juarez waiting to cross, as local officials prepare for the unknown. Leeser said migrants are flocking to the border under false assumptions that it will be easier to gain entry to the U.S. when Title 42 goes away, but for many there could be tougher consequences.

It's a message federal officials have been repeating. But they're competing against a powerful human smuggling network that facilitates northern migration and the desperation of migrants who feel they have no other option.

At the Brownsville port of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials say they've run drills to prepare in case theres a large increase of migrants trying to cross and they need to close the bridge. Pedestrians cross from Matamoros using a covered walkway that can only accommodate a few people across. Worried about the impact of long lines of migrants coming to the port after May 11 without an appointment and impacting port operations, they're calling on people to schedule appointments through CBP One.

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Gonzalez reported from McAllen, Texas. Associated Press writers Morgan Lee in Santa Fe, N.M., and Paul J. Weber in Austin, Texas, contributed to this report.

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This story has been corrected to show the senator's first name is Kyrsten, not Kristen.
HARTFORD  Legislative leaders say it has a slim chance of passing. Some even question whether it is even legal.

Yet a proposal by state Sen. John Fonfara, D-Hartford, to give some residents in Connecticuts poorest census tracts a break from paying the state's income tax has been thrust into the center of the legislatures annual budget negotiations  increasing the likelihood that it could serve as a catalyst for future debates about how to address generational poverty.

Fonfara, a 13-term senator who co-chairs the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, inserted the novel tax exemption into a state bonding measure in April, along with a proposal to borrow $165 million to spend on projects specifically within census tracts where more than 30 percent of residents live below the federal poverty line.

Under Fonfara's bill, the tax exemption in qualifying tracts would last for up to three years, followed by a review to determine whether enough economic progress has been made in those neighborhoods to remove them from the list, or keep them on for another three years.

Democrats on the committee swiftly voted to adopt the measure, though Gov. Ned Lamont and other party leaders remain cool to the idea.

During an interview last week in his state Capitol office, Fonfara explained that rationale for the proposal was to provide an incentive for upwardly-mobile earners to stay within struggling neighborhoods, rather than fleeing to the suburbs or tonier areas of the city along with their cash for local business or home improvements.

Concentrated poverty isnt just a place where poverty resides, it is a generator of poverty, said the senator, who is also running for mayor of Hartford, one of the cities whose residents would benefit the most from the exemption.

The vast majority leave from that area as soon as possible, because they want better for their families just like everybody else, Fonfara said. But when that happens, we further concentrate poverty because we're constantly exporting success stories.

Legislative researchers have yet to determine how much the proposal would cost the state in terms of lost revenue, though a preliminary fiscal analysis noted that cities with the highest number of qualifying tracts  including Hartford, Bridgeport, New Haven and Waterbury  accounted for more than $300 million income tax revenues in 2020.

Fonfara said that qualifying census tracts likely account for just a fraction of the more than $10 billion that Connecticut collects from income taxes, and that not all residents of those areas would be exempted from paying income taxes.

Under his proposal, anyone earning more than $120,000 a year, or $200,000 for a couple, would still be required to pay state income taxes.

If passed, experts said Fonfaras proposal would likely be the first of its kind in the nation to target tax relief based on their address, rather than earnings.

Jackson Brainerd, a tax and economic development researcher at the National Conference of State Legislatures, said that while many states offer tax incentives to individuals or businesses to invest in certain locations, he was not aware of any other states that offer income tax exemptions based on geographic area.

In addition, Brainerd said that the proposal could potentially violate the equal-protection clause of the 14th Amendment, a concern that has also been raised by some of Fonfaras fellow lawmakers.

At least one congruent example to Fonfaras proposal, however, may be found in the twin cities of Texarkana straddling the border between Texas and Arkansas.

Residents who live in the city on the Arkansas-side do not have to pay state income taxes, in order to discourage people from simply moving to the Texas-side of town, where there is no state income tax.

Fonfara said that he hopes other states will look to replicate his idea, along with the federal government, as they seek to turn around declines in blighted, under-developed communities. "The income the same income tax is a pittance compared to the federal income tax, and therefore, that would really have a significant impact on these neighborhoods," he said.

In Connecticut, however, leaders of both parties have expressed a desire to stick with broad-based tax relief for lower-and-middle-income earners, as well as an expansion of existing programs designed to benefit poorer workers, such as the earned-income tax credit.

The top Republican in the House, Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, called the proposal problematic, adding that Fonfara had a long way to go in convincing his fellow lawmakers after inserting the language into the budget without a public hearing.

Just because you have a concentrated area of poverty, you shouldnt exempt everybodys income taxes, Candelora said. Its got to be more individually-based.

Both House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, and Lamont have similarly thrown cold water on the proposal, saying that they and other lawmakers would rather cut taxes based on earnings, which would apply in all areas of the state.

I get the concept, its just hard to get the votes for it, Ritter said during a news conference Thursday when he was asked about the proposal.

Lamont has also expressed skepticism about Fonfaras plan to use bonding to fund programs in the same census tracts, pointing to his general opposition to borrowing money for long-term operating expenses.

In an effort to court his fellow lawmakers, Fonfara has had his staff develop maps showing which Senate districts include qualifying census tracts, which he has distributed to his colleagues.
DENVER (AP)  A judge sentenced a woman convicted of killing her 11-year-old stepson in Colorado and dumping his body over a bridge in Florida to life in prison without parole on Monday, calling her claim that she was insane and that one of her other personalities killed him a disservice to those who are mentally ill.

Earlier in the day, jurors found Letecia Stauch guilty of first-degree murder and other charges she faced in Gannon Stauchs killing over three years ago. Prosecutors said she stabbed Gannon 18 times as he tried to fight her off before hitting him in the head and then shooting him once.

Prosecutors claimed Stauch killed the boy in January 2020 because she hated him and wanted to hurt his father, Al Stauch, whom she planned to leave and who was away on a National Guard deployment at the time. They said she then put his body in a suitcase and drove over 1,300 miles with it in a rented van.

Judge Gregory Werner said Stauch was also motivated by hatred and jealousy of Gannons mother, Landen Bullard, and resentful of being left to take care of Gannon and his younger sister.

Unlike other defendants with mental health problems, Werner said Stauch was never surprised by what her alleged other personality did but instead took conscious steps to cover up her actions.

There is no time during the minutes, hours and days following the murder where Letecia came out and wondered 'Gee, why am I carrying a body around a body in my luggage?' That just isn't credible," he said.

Al Stauch broke down in court while addressing Gannon, saying he would never would have thought he was leaving him with his murderer." Both he and Bullard recalled how their severely premature son weighed about a pound and a half when he was born, able to fit into the palms of his dads hands, but proved to be a survivor.

You came into this world fighting. Unfortunately, you left this world fighting, Bullard said.

Stauch did not deny killing Gannon, but she pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The defense argued that she killed Gannon during a psychotic break" caused by trauma from being physically, emotionally and sexually abused during her childhood.

Experts at the state mental hospital concluded that Stauch had a personality disorder with borderline and narcissistic features but was sane at the time Gannon was killed. Under Colorado law, that means understanding the difference between right and wrong and being able to form the intent to commit a crime.

The main defense witness, Dr. Dorothy Lewis, author of the book Crazy, Not Insane and featured in an HBO documentary with the same title, concluded Stauch suffered from dissociative identity disorder  when someone has two or more personalities as the result of trauma  and was not sane at the time Gannon was killed.

In the weeks leading up to Gannon's killing, Stauch was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder after she was referred to a psychologist while being treated military health clinic. Therapist Ronda Niederhauser testified that Stauch did not show any signs of being a threat to herself or others and was aware of her surroundings.

Authorities believe Stauch killed Gannon in his bedroom a few hours before reporting him missing on Jan. 27, 2020, saying he had not come home from playing with friends. Dozens of volunteers helped search for the boy in the area around where the family lived near Colorado Springs. However, investigators later revealed that Stauch concocted a variety of stories to mislead them, including that a man she hired to repair a carpet raped her and then abducted Gannon.

After Al Stauch became suspicious of his wife, he allowed the FBI to listen in on his phone calls with Stauch, trying to draw out more information from her about where Gannon was. Hours of audio from those calls along with video recordings of interviews with Stauch about her mental health were a prominent part of the evidence offered during the five-week trial.

Gannons body was found in a suitcase below a bridge on the Florida Pandhandle during an inspection done twice a year in what prosecutors called divine intervention.

Stauch was convicted of first-degree murder after deliberation, first-degree murder of a child by a person in a position of trust, tampering with a deceased human body and tampering with physical evidence.

She did not appear to show any reaction to the verdict as it was read, sitting at the defense table between her two lawyers, or as Al Stauch, Bullard and others spoke to the judge about how Gannon's killing had hurt them.
SILVER CITY, Mich. (AP)  Authorities searched for a missing 8-year-old boy in the rugged terrain of a northern Michigan state park Sunday.

Nante Niemi was camping with family in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in the western Upper Peninsula when he disappeared Saturday afternoon, his mother, Jessica Buerger, told WDIO-TV.

The park said dozens of agencies from Michigan and Wisconsin were involved in the search.

The terrain is very rough, and they are doing a great job and need the time and focus to do so," Buerger said.

The boy is a student in the Hurley School District in Hurley, Wisconsin, which advised anxious members of the community to stay away from the area so authorities can best do their job.

The local police are also aware that we stand by ready with 2 buses of volunteers waiting to go help search, the school district said on Facebook.
Tokyo will unlikely fill other half of cup



Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's overnight stay in South Korea showed the essence of practical diplomacy  from Japan's viewpoint.



Assuming bilateral diplomacy is a deal, Tokyo got the most and lost the least. The opposite was Seoul, as theirs is not a win-win but a zero-sum game, at least in the foreseeable future.



This was expected but no less disappointing.



Kishida cemented three things. First, he got a reassurance from President Yoon Suk Yeol that Seoul would push ahead with compensating the Korean victims of forced labor during WWII on Japan's behalf despite domestic opposition.



Second, Japan will jump on the renewed  if mainly in appearance  nuclear bandwagon of the United States and South Korea. Yoon did not rule out Japan joining the Nuclear Consultative Group if Tokyo wins a nod from Washington. The group will change little in substance but cement the symbolism of a trilateral alliance against North Korea  and China.



Third, Japan has moved one step closer to releasing contaminated water from nuclear power plants in Fukushima to the Pacific Ocean. Japan will let a Korean team inspect the site beforehand, subduing opposition from Seoul and leaving the rest up to IAEA and 18 Pacific Island nations. If the tainted water is released into the sea, Korea may also be unable to keep its ban on importing fish caught near Fukushima.



Far more importantly, the Japanese leader made it clear that Tokyo would no longer reflect on or apologize for Japan's wrongdoings to Koreans during the colonial days. Publicly, Kishida went no further than 52 days ago in Tokyo when he vowed to inherit the previous Japanese governments' positions on these historical issues. Personally, Kishida said his "heart ached" when he thought of the suffering of those Koreans. He thus blunted opposition in both capitals while adding nothing "official."



All these show Yoon must learn from his Japanese counterpart at least as far as delicate diplomacy is concerned. During the post-summit news conference on Sunday, Yoon said Seoul's formula of settling issues regarding former forced laborers and sex slaves is "the only solution." However, there is room for civil dispute over proxy reimbursement against the creditors' will. The prosecutor-turned-president must know but ignores this point.



Yoon also said, "Korea must get out of the perception that there is no cooperation with Japan without settling the past." That deliberately distorts opposition claims. Historical hawks say the two countries should, and can, take a two-track approach where they continue to narrow differences on past issues while cooperating on future tasks.



The past is important because it shapes the present, which, in turn, shapes the future. Korea also must learn from Japan's farsightedness and meticulousness in this regard. Unlike Germany, Japan is exceptionally cautious in admitting past wrongs. And unlike Germany, which does not openly pursue restoring its past military prowess, Japan has begun to show its ambition, often citing North Korea.



If Korea has a similarly farsighted perspective, its eventual destination is the unified Korean Peninsula. Yet the incumbent administration's policy is going increasingly further away from this direction, given reunification is nearly impossible without the cooperation of China and Russia.



Yoon is betting all on the three-nation alliance. However, diplomacy is different from gambling, at least in two ways. Putting everything on the line can lead to a jackpot in gambling. In diplomacy, a similar strategy has too much to lose and too little to gain. Also, one can have a second chance if given enough time in gambling. In diplomacy, the damage is irrecoverable until one leaves the place, leaving debt to successors.



Yoon and Kishida say they will go ahead with their "shuttle diplomacy," a misnomer that nobody seems to care about anymore. Shuttle or not, summit diplomacy, or any diplomacy for that matter, cannot last long if benefits and damage are lopsided. The two leaders, and their U.S. partner, must also know diplomacy will continue after their tenure.




Each day, nearly 70,000 teachers, paraprofessionals and staff walk through the doors of our states public schools to educate, support and inspire Connecticuts nearly 514,000 students. Their work every day is truly life-changing and should be celebrated and recognized.

Recently, our states educators and public schools have faced unprecedented challenges  from the disruption of the pandemic to staff shortages to record-high student needs  and they have risen to meet each challenge head on and help Connecticuts children grow and succeed.

And while they are often superheroes for our students and families, our educators are only human and they can only do so much without the proper funding and resources. In order for our educators to have what they need in their classrooms and for our students and public schools to be successful, urgent action must be taken to increase state K-12 education funding and create a more equitable, student-centered school finance system.

Over the past three years, Connecticuts school districts have been bolstered by one-time, federal COVID-relief funding. That funding is set to go away in September 2024, but the needs of Connecticuts students, and the pandemics impacts on their learning and mental health, will last long after those funds expire.

Students will continue to need additional academic and mental health supports and programming, but without additional state funding, these resources to help students fully recover from the pandemic will not be available. Districts will be forced to either cut student programs and services and lay off teachers, paraprofessionals, counselors, and tutors, or taxpayers and towns will be burdened by significant property tax increases to help fund those essential positions and student resources.

This legislative session we have the opportunity to ensure communities dont have to face these dire choices by passing H.B. 5003  a historic education funding bill that would help communities bridge the upcoming fiscal cliff and invest over $350 million more in public schools across Connecticut.

Unanimously passed by the General Assemblys Education Committee, H.B. 5003 would accelerate full funding of the Education Cost Sharing (ECS) formula  the states primary method for funding local public schools  by three years so students and communities would receive the full amount of state education funding theyre entitled to beginning in the 2024-25 school year as federal COVID-relief dollars expire. Additionally, H.B. 5003 would fix the states current disjointed and inequitable education finance system by extending the ECS formula to all public school students  including those attending public school choice options like magnet and charter schools and AgriScience programs  while building in increased accountability and greater transparency for all school types.

Together these provisions would deliver millions of dollars in education funding to chronically underfunded schools throughout the state while holding districts accountable and ensuring funding reaches classrooms so students can achieve their full potential. While H.B. 5003 does not solve all of the education issues facing our state, it does provide the critical funding that is needed to improve educational equity and student achievement, hire and retain high-quality teachers, and address the severe workforce shortage that is hampering our states businesses and economic growth.

The policies proposed in H.B. 5003 have been discussed, examined, and publicized for years. Thousands of conversations about the bill have been had with education stakeholders, policymakers, and community members. Hundreds of parents, students, educators, superintendents, and municipal leaders have publicly testified in favor of the bill. Dozens of education, municipal, business, community, and faith organizations have publicly supported the bill. Even the General Assemblys nonpartisan, independent Office of Fiscal Analysis studied, modeled, and released a public report on the proposal last year.

Last month, the Appropriations Committee took a significant step toward making H.B. 5003 a reality by including $150 million in the Committees bipartisan spending proposal for additional K-12 education funding. While this is a positive development, and a substantial investment in our public schools, it pales in comparison to the investment that is needed.

We are at a critical point for public education in our state. We know we cannot continue with business as usual or return to a pre-COVID normal that did not work for a large portion of our states students, families, and communities. We must change how we support our public schools, empower educators, and set all students up for success.

We have a landmark piece of legislation before us that would deliver all of this, but its up to us to make the investment needed to finally make it a reality.

Its time to act and fully fund H.B. 5003.
WFO LUBBOCK Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service Lubbock TX

547 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 615 PM CDT

FOR SOUTHEASTERN KENT AND STONEWALL COUNTIES...

At 547 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 7 miles south of

Peacock, or 9 miles southwest of Aspermont, moving northeast at 30

mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

Locations impacted include...

Aspermont, Peacock, Old Glory, Swenson and Us-380 Near The Haskell-

Stonewall County Line.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Western Jones County in west central Texas...

Northwestern Taylor County in west central Texas...

Southeastern Fisher County in west central Texas...

* Until 630 PM CDT.

* At 547 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Trent, moving

north at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Two inch hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail

damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect

wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...

Noodle around 555 PM CDT.

Neinda around 615 PM CDT.

Anson around 620 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include The

Intersection Of Us-180 And Ranch Road 126 and Truby.

This includes Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 262 and 268.

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR NORTHWESTERN TAYLOR COUNTY IS

CANCELLED...

The storm which prompted the warning has moved out of the area.

Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

west central Texas.

FOR NORTH CENTRAL CROCKETT COUNTY...

At 551 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Iraan, moving

east at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Two inch hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

IMPACT...People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail

damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect wind

damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of north

central Crockett County.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Cho Seung-hwan, left, and Saudi Arabian Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser pose at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Monday, after signing a memorandum of understanding on the mutual recognition of certificates of seafarers. Courtesy of Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries



By Park Jae-hyuk



Saudi Arabian Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser started a three-day trip to Korea, Monday, prompting Korean firms to anticipate more lucrative orders from the oil-rich Middle Eastern country, in addition to Neom, a $500 billion smart city development project.



On the first day of his visit, he signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Cho Seung-hwan, regarding mutual recognition of certificates held by each country's seafarers.



"Following the agreement, he will participate in a banquet with Korea's construction, engineering and shipping industry officials, hosted by Minister Cho," the maritime ministry said.



On Wednesday, the Saudi minister will go to Busan, Korea's second-largest city, which is competing with the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh to host the World Expo 2030. At the new port of Busan, he will tour container terminals and neighboring logistics center.



"We will continue making efforts for Korean companies to enter the Saudi Arabian port infrastructure market and for both countries to boost bilateral ties in the maritime industry," said Cho, who paid a visit to the Middle Eastern country in March with representatives of HMM, Hyundai E&C and Daewoo E&C.



The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport also plans to sign MOUs with the Saudi transport ministry during Tuesday's roadshow, regarding bilateral cooperation in the mobility sector. Last November, Land Minister Won Hee-ryong hosted the first leg of the roadshow in Riyadh to introduce 22 Korean companies engaging in IT, construction, smart city and mobility businesses.



Naver, which showcased robotics, artificial intelligence and digital twin technologies during the previous roadshow, was initially supposed to greet the Saudi Arabian minister on Tuesday at its headquarters equipped with the smart city technologies.



The minister skipped his visit to the IT firm's headquarters in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, due to his hectic schedule.



"We heard he wanted to visit our headquarters," a Naver spokesman said. "We will meet him at the roadshow in Seoul to introduce our technologies."



The Naver headquarters was visited by Saudi Arabian Minister of Municipality, Rural Affairs and Housing Majed Al-Hogail last November and Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence General Manager Alhassan Alhazmi in February.



Saudi Arabia has been paying keen attention to the technologies applied to Naver's headquarters building, with the aim of using those technologies for the country's smart city projects.



"When the Saudi housing minister visited Naver headquarters last year, he stayed there longer than planned, showing his interest in technologies used for the building," an industry official said on condition of anonymity.


Crude Oil, US Jobs, China, WTI, OPEC+, RBOB, OVX Index  Talking Points

Crude oil managed to lift off the lows last week, but uncertainty persists

OPEC+ might be looking to be more involved following prior output cuts

The structure of the market could be saying something, will WTI rally?

Recommended by Daniel McCarthy How to Trade Oil Get My Guide

Crude oil is holding recent gains to start this week after recovering to close out last week. Some solid US jobs data lifted the market mood on Friday and several risk asset classes were boosted.

253k non-farm US jobs were added in April, well above the 160k anticipated and the revised 165k previously. The unemployment rate hit 3.4% last month, the lowest level since 1969.

Sentiment was further bolstered by Chinese tourist travel data that showed 274 million mainland domestic trips were taken over the Golden Week holiday period. This is a bright spot on what has been general market disappointment for the economic rebound on Chinas reopening.

Crude oil had been under pressure for most of last week after what appeared to be a flash crash on Thursday.

The WTI futures contract traded almost 24% lower than the peak seen in April after the OPEC+ output cut announcement. It has since recovered to be down only around 14% today trading above US$ 71.

OPEC+ have said that their meeting in early June will be in person in Vienna rather than a virtual one. This has been interpreted by some pundits that it may indicate that the cartel is looking to be more active in supporting oil prices and that further output cuts might be forthcoming.

In the meantime, the monthly OPEC+ oil market report is due to be released this Thursday.

Trade Smarter - Sign up for the DailyFX Newsletter Receive timely and compelling market commentary from the DailyFX team Subscribe to Newsletter

On the downside, some structural factors might be undermining black gold with the RBOB crack spread sliding lower. The RBOB crack spread is the gauge of gasoline prices relative to crude oil prices and reflects the profit margin of refiners.

RBOB stands for reformulated blendstock for oxygenate blending. It is a tradable grade of gasoline. If profitability decreases for refiners, it may lead to less demand for crude. The dip in this indicator comes despite soft EIA inventory data last week.

The crude recovery saw volatility retreat lower as measured by the OVX index. Potentially revealing that the market is comfortable with current pricing.

At the same time, the difference in price between the front two WTI futures contracts is relatively benign and could hint toward a degree of balance in the market for now.

Update crude oil prices can be found here.

WTI CRUDE OIL, CRACK SPREAD, BACKWARDATION/CONTANGO, VOLATILITY (OVX)

Chart created in TradingView

--- Written by Daniel McCarthy, Strategist for DailyFX.com

Please contact Daniel via @DanMcCarthyFX on Twitter

--- Written by Daniel McCarthy, Strategist for DailyFX.com

To contact Daniel, use the comments section below or @DanMcCathyFX on Twitter
JAPANESE YEN PRICE, CHARTS AND ANALYSIS:

AUD/JPY Technicals Hint at Exhaustion as RSI Enters Overbought Territory.

USD/JPY Sideways Price Action as Dollar and Yen Grapple for Superiority.

EUR/JPY Bounces Off Trendline and 50-day MA. Further Gains in Store Above the 150.00 Handle?

Recommended by Zain Vawda Get Your Free JPY Forecast Get My Guide

Read More: EUR/USD Price Forecast: Euro Bulls Fight Exhaustion Below the 1.1100 Level

JAPANESE YEN BACKDROP

The Japanese Yen had seen its recent rally curtailed toward the end of last week, something which has continued into the new week. The Yen faced renewed selling pressure this morning as market sentiment appears to have improved. Heading into the US session we can see from the currency strength chart below that the US Dollar and the Yen remain the weakest currencies.

Currency Strength Chart: Strongest - AUD, Weakest - USD

Source: FinancialJuice

The safe have appeal of the Japanese Yen has supported the currency of late following a selloff which saw EURJPY hit a 15-year high. The hawkish rhetoric by the ECB at last weeks meeting threatens to keep EURJPY advancing beyond the 150.00 mark over the medium term. Given the lack of policy intervention expected by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) in the short term, any hope of staving of further losses rests with overall sentiment and the potential for a global recession in 2023. Persistent recessionary fears would likely dent market sentiment and keep safe haven Yen buyers interested.

Looking at USDJPY and the fundamental picture appears slightly less certain as the Fed looks to pause rate hikes. This has stoked recessionary fears and seen market participants increase their expectations for rate cuts in the second half of 2023. Fridays jobs data however will give the Fed a brief moment of happiness as despite signs of a slowdown in the US economy the unemployment rate remains at record lows. This should give the Fed optimism and back up the comments made by Fed Chair Powell that he sees modest growth rather than a recession for the US in 2023. The fundamental outlook is murkier than that of the Euro Area at this stage and could be the reason for the indecision in USDJPY.

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RISK EVENTS IN THE WEEK AHEAD

There is a host of risk events for the week ahead particularly out of the US and Japan which could further impact overall sentiment as well as Yen pairs. US CPI remains the biggest event of the week from the US while the coincident index promises to be of interest out of Japan and give an insight into the current economic performance.

There is a host of Federal Reserve policymakers scheduled to speak this week which kicks off tomorrow with Fed Member Jefferson and Williams. This could shed further light on US monetary policy and what policymakers expect for the rest of 2023.

They Key Risk Events to Keep an Eye on:

For all market-moving economic releases and events, see the DailyFX Calendar

PRICE ACTION AND POTENTIAL SETUPS

EURJPY

EUR/JPY Daily Chart

Source: TradingView, prepared by Zain Vawda

EURJPY has seen a sharp pullback since printing a 15 year high around the 151.60 mark. The selloff was exacerbated by the safe haven demand we have seen over the last week as the pair fell around 440 pips back toward the ascending trendline.

EURJPY has completed its third touch of the trendline and closed as a bullish inside bar candle on Friday, hinting at further upside. Immediate resistance rests around the 150.00 mark with a break higher obviously bring the most recent highs into play. Given the extended rally to the upside there is a chance we could be in for some consolidation on EURJPY before its next move. EURJPY remains bullish above the 146.60 handle with a daily candle close below invalidating the bullish narrative.

USDJPY

USD/JPY Daily Chart

Source: TradingView, prepared by Zain Vawda

From a technical perspective, the daily chart for USD/JPY looks eerily similar to EUR/JPY. This is a theme across Yen pairs given last weeks rally in the Yen was more driven by safe haven demand than technical factors.

Having broken the ascending channel, we have since broken back inside and tapped the lower end of the ascending channel as well as the 50-day MA. Similar to EURJPY the overall structure for USDJPY remains bullish at this stage with a push toward resistance around the 135.70 and beyond a possibility. Any push higher here will find strong resistance with the 138.00 handle so far proving a bridge to far for USDJPY.

Alternatively, a push lower from here will bring the 50-day MA and 100-day MA into play, resting at the 133.86 and 132.86 levels respectively. A break and daily candle close below the 133.60 handle will invalidate the bullish bias.

AUDJPY

AUD/JPY Daily Chart

Source: TradingView, prepared by Zain Vawda

The AUD/JPY chart sees price staircasing its way higher following last week's pullback. The Aussie Dollar has benefitted from the resumption of rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) which was accompanied by hawkish rhetoric as well.

AUDJPY has been making higher highs and lows since bottoming out on March 24. The 92.00 level remains a tough hurdle to clear and has served as resistance since February 22. Based on structure we should be on course for a new high yet the RSI on the daily timeframe is in overbought territory and maybe worth keeping an eye on.

Similar to EURJPY the medium-term fundamentals support further upside for AUDJPY and longs on any pullbacks may potentially provide an excellent opportunity. AUDJPY remains bullish above the 89.76 level with a daily candle close below invalidating the bullish structure.

Introduction to Technical Analysis Learn Technical Analysis Recommended by Zain Vawda Start Course

--- Written by Zain Vawda for DailyFX.com

Contact and follow Zain on Twitter: @zvawda
What are the lasting memories of the Coronation? The solemnity and costumes in Westminster Abbey? Or the pantomime moment when the Archbishop of Canterbury appeared to screw the crown to the Kings head like a bottle top?

Perhaps it was the approval of the cheering, waving crowds as King and Queen took their curtain call from the Buckingham Palace balcony. And what about that spontaneous jig Charles performed at Sunday nights concert? Was this the embodiment of a peoples monarch in action?

For some, doubtless, it will be Williams failure to mention Camilla by name in his otherwise generous tribute to his fathers achievements  along with the distracting glamour of his wife Kate, a sublime figure of glacial impassivity.

What are the lasting memories of the Coronation? The solemnity and costumes in Westminster Abbey? Or the pantomime moment when the Archbishop of Canterbury appeared to screw the crown to the Kings head like a bottle top?

Allowing Andrew to wear his robes as a member of the ancient Order of the Garter to Saturdays ceremony was a kindly, fraternal gesture

If nothing else here was proof that no matter how hard the Netflix show The Crown tries to recreate the dramas of the House of Windsor, it cannot compete with the real thing.

Yes the three days of celebrations to mark the start of the reign of Charles III were a triumph, but, beyond the spectacle and the ceremony, the King faces some real challenges that will not just define how favourably the Coronation is remembered, but also the future direction of the monarchy.

Charles never gives the impression of being a man in a hurry, but he knows that time now is pressing. In the eight months since the death of his mother, he has projected a reassuring mix of continuity and familiarity.

But issues are crowding in: how in the era of a slimmed-down monarchy can he hope to meet both targets of having fewer working royals while fulfilling all the obligations of charity and patronage inherited from Queen Elizabeth?

Abroad, the Commonwealth seethes with a clamour for change. Barely was the crown settled on Charless head than St Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean became the latest country to demand a consultation about whether to become a republic.

Closer to home he has to address the issue of the crowns staggering property portfolio. In the midst of a cost of living and housing crisis, the sheer number of royal homes is an embarrassment.

This, of course, reopens the debate about just who should receive these lavish houses. And, inevitably, whatever solution he finds, they are inextricably linked to the most pressing problem of all: the Andrew and Harry question.

The King knows he will be judged more on this matter for his decisiveness  or lack of it  than by any other.

Allowing Andrew to wear his robes as a member of the ancient Order of the Garter to Saturdays ceremony was a kindly, fraternal gesture. But then relegating him to the also-rans of the Royal Family in the row behind his younger brother Edwards teenage children was scarcely magnanimous.

And what about Harry, the running sore of the Windsor story? If his blink-and-youll-miss-it appearance at the Coronation was a source of sadness for the King, the decision to banish him to the outer fringes of the Royal Family seats seems questionable.

These first months, the transition between the reign of his mother and his own, were always likely to be unremarkable for Charles when the focus was the meticulous planning of his crowning.

It meant, of course, that there was dither. He promoted William and Kate to Prince and Princess of Wales within a day of the Queens death. But he waited six months before elevating Edward to Duke of Edinburgh, while Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex didnt bother to wait for his father to confirm Archie and Lilibets titles as prince and princess, they did it themselves.

In the course of a reign such details probably do not matter. However, over the next year, there will be a series of announcements which will tell us about the Kings direction of travel and his priorities.

They will be a mixture of public and personal. Included are the future of Highgrove.

A sanctuary during the years of his unhappy marriage to Princess Diana, it remains his favourite home. But how many homes can the man who owns Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, Balmoral Castle, Windsor Castle, Sandringham and Birkhall  as well as boltholes in Wales, Scotland and Romania  possibly need?

And it is not just Charless properties. Can Andrew, who has no official role, be permitted to remain in Royal Lodge? Evicting him risks the King being cast as vindictive. Allowing him to stay put might suggest weakness. The booing that greeted Andrew as he travelled down the Mall on Saturday may determine which option his brother chooses.

There are likely to be changes for the Waleses, too. At the moment, William and Kate are living in homely Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park, chosen for its convenience to their childrens school.

And what about Harry, the running sore of the Windsor story? If his blink-and-youll-miss-it appearance at the Coronation was a source of sadness for the King, the decision to banish him to the outer fringes of the Royal Family seats seems questionable

There are now questions about whether it is practical for the princes enhanced role. Running the vast Duchy of Cornwall estate and the huge increase in the number of their day-to-day engagements may mean them relocating to their Kensington Palace apartment sooner than they planned.

As for Harry, the housing issue has already been settled, he has forfeited Frogmore Cottage and has almost certainly spent his last night there. Charles who desperately wants to be reconciled with his son, will keep the door open and has assured him that he will always have somewhere to stay.

For all his talk of the apology he says he wants from the Royal Family , there have so far been no concessions. Charles is aware that this is a situation of considerable delicacy. Not only was Camilla upset by many of Harrys comments which included him accusing her of leaking stories about him, William has also insisted that it is he and Kate who deserve the apology because of his brothers comments about them in his memoir.

Many around Charles wonder if Harry will ever be seen at a royal event again, such is the depth of the rift.

As heart-breaking as this undoubtedly is to the King, it is not the only testing problem he faces. With Commonwealth countries apparently lining up to register their wish to break away, the King faces a tricky dilemma.

Should he simply wait as each makes their case for republic status, or does he get on the front foot and make the case for continued membership?

Its going to have to be finely judged, says one former royal adviser. He needs to show he is not being driven by events but is in control of them.

In the short-term, he must answer the increasingly anxious calls from the charity world. What will happen to all those organisations he supported as Prince of Wales? And what about those that were served by the late Queen?

These are almost certainly what Princess Anne had in mind when she suggested that slimming down the monarchy was beginning to look rather foolish. No Harry and Meghan and no Andrew meant the numbers of working royals had already been scaled back. How will Charless vision of a leaner monarchy actually function?

As his reign formally begins, it is one of only countless problems the new King faces. Planning all the facets of the Coronation may seem simplicity itself in comparison.
He has already taken the stage by storm, being nominated for a top award for his role at the National Theatre.

But streaming fans will soon also become very familiar with Tunji Kasim, 36.

The actor plays Duke Adolphus in the new series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, now released on Netflix.

A spin-off prequel to Bridgerton, the show focuses on the love story between Queen Charlotte - played by India Artemafio - and King George III (played by Corey Mylchreest).

Adolphus is Charlotte's older brother, who has agreed to his sister's arranged marriage for the benefit of their German province.

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story stars Tunji Kasim playing Adolphus, the elder brother of the Queen

But due to family circumstances, Adolphus is almost like Charlotte's father figure and only wants the best for her - he is torn to his duty to family and professional duties.

And it seems actor Tunji's real life has been just as interesting.

He was born in 1987 in Aberdeen, to a father - a Nigerian academic with a PHD in economics - and a Scottish primary school teacher mother.

Tunji then spent the first decade-or-so of his life in Nigeria, before moving back to the North East at the age of 12.

With his family being high-achievers, acting wasn't top of his list of planned careers and he was expected to become a engineer or doctor.

But when he began taking part in high school drama classes, he impressed a teacher so much he was encouraged to consider it for a career.

Hooked on the art, he then attended the Royal Scottish Academy in Glasgow (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) and made his London stage debut in 2007, in Michael Attenboroughs production of Big White Fog at the Almeida Theatre.

Following this, he then clinched roles in the TV series Almost Famous and Shetland, before playing Ned Nickerson  the handsome love interest  in CBSs Nancy Drew.

Tunji Kasim walking the red carpet of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story at the TV series premiere in Los Angeles last month

Tunji Kasim in Les Blancs play in London 2016. The play covers the plight of colonialism in the early 20th Century

unji Kasim as Adolphus and Arsema Thomas as Young Agatha Danbury the new Netflix hit, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

Tunji's big break came in 2019, when he played Julius Caesar in Anthony and Cleopatra in the National Theatre, for which he was nominated for an Ian Charleston award.

It is this role however which will likely see him become a household name.

Fans of Bridgerton will not be disappointed, for this show also includes trademark romps, romance and silk gowns.

Tunji recently told Tatler, 'Queen Charlotte reflects a real life couple in Harry and Megan. Especially Megans introduction to the royal family.

'Weve all heard about how thats gone down and their exit from it what it was like for an outsider to come into this extremely established institution. '

Tunji has admitted that he struggled to pronounce the German province in which the show is set - Mecklenburg-Strelitz.

And he has also revealed that he hasn't watched Bridgerton so that he can bring his own 'energy' to it.

But he is one of just a few - for Bridgerton broke its own record last year, as Season 2 became the most-watched English-language series on Netflix.

This popularity, in part comes from its revolutionary colour-conscious casting that portrays the regency period as widely diverse.

Tunji says that the colour blind casting did not mean ethnic tensions did not exist in that society.

As for the plot, he describes the marriage of his younger sister Charlotte as one of convenience.

But says he relates to this in real life, relaying that his own family share a sense of 'practicality over emotion'.

As for Queen Charlotte herself, the character won her way into viewers' hearts in the first two series of the hit show.

Now this show - set decades before the events of Bridgerton - follows her as she experiences her first throes of passion in Regency Britain.

But what viewers of the show might not know is that the character of Queen Charlotte is based on a real 18th Century royal.

Born in May 1744, Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz was the daughter of a German Duke and a Princess.

Queen Charlotte was married to King George III for 57 years and shared 15 children with her mentally ill husband

Queen Charlotte, played by India Amarteifio, pictured in character as Queen Charlotte in the new Netflix series

According to the Royal Family's website, Princess Charlotte was selected to be George III's wife when he became King in 1760.

As such, the 17-year-old German royal had to move away from everything she knew and start a new life in England with a man she hardly knew.

When she arrived at her husband's court, historians have noted how the new Queen was seen as an outsider - a theme which is explored in the new Netflix series.

But despite their arranged nuptials, Charlotte and George went on to have a exceptionally happy marriage.

Over the course of their 57 year marriage, Queen Charlotte gave birth to 15 children across 22 years.

Shortly after their wedding, George bought Queen's House for his wife to use - which is known today as Buckingham Palace and used as the Royal Family's main London residence.

Coronation portrait of Queen Charlotte from 1761. Since her death in 1818, historians have debated Charlotte's ethnicity - as paintings and descriptions of her suggested that she may have been biracial

King George III painted in his Coronation robes. The royal began suffering a mental health issues just five years into his marriage with Charlotte

Painting by Johann Zoffany shows Queen Charlotte with two of her eldest sons. The oil canvas painting dates back to 1765

Corey Mylchreest as Young King George, India Amarteifio as Young Queen Charlotte in in the new Bridgerton series

The Netflix show follows Queen Charlotte as she experiences her first throes of passion in Regency Britain

Although the couple fell madly in love, their marriage wasn't entirely smooth-sailing - and the Queen had to deal with George's mental illness, which is documented in the Bridgerton series, where the King becomes a virtual recluse.

King George III suffered his first bout of mental illness in 1765 - just five years into the couple's marriage.

Historians believe his 'permanent madness' started around 1810 and he is reported to have become violent during his fits.

Although Queen Charlotte remained his devoted companion, she is said to have never visited her husband alone as his condition worsened.

In the final 10 years of his reign, the couple's son George IV acted as the Prince Regent.

According to the Royal Family's website, some historians believe that George III's illness was caused by a hereditary physical disorder called porphyria - which can cause hallucinations and confusion.

Since her death in 1818, historians have debated Charlotte's ethnicity - as paintings and descriptions of her suggested that she may have been biracial.

Although it is impossible to know the late Queen's full heritage, the show's creator Shonda Rhimes told The Guardian: 'We took the idea that Queen Charlotte was from Black Portuguese royalty and ran with it.'

Discussing how the royal inspired the character of Charlotte, Shonda added: 'She was outsized, very glamorous, held herself above everyone. There was a lot to mine.'
Baedal Minjok delivery drivers seen on a road in Seoul on Aug. 30, 2020. Korea Times file



By Kim Jae-heun



Food delivery platforms are offering more discounts to encourage consumers to order food online as more people choose to visit restaurants after the end of COVID-19 lockdowns, according to company officials, Monday. Soaring food prices and higher delivery fees have also dampened demand for food delivery.



Coupang Eats took the initiative to offer 5 percent to 10 percent discounts for Coupang Wow Membership users in 18 districts of Seoul on a trial basis. The company introduced the promotional event in southern Seoul's Songpa and Gwanak districts starting on April 10 to overcome the current difficulties facing the food delivery industry. It added 16 more districts to the areas eligible for the service in order to attract more customers.



The country's largest food delivery platform, Baedal Minjok (Baemin), also introduced a "bundle delivery" service offering cheaper delivery fees starting April 25 in Gwanak District. On May 3, the company expanded the service area to Incheon's Yeonsu District, Gunpo in Gyeonggi Province and five more districts in Daegu Metropolitan City.



The country's second-largest food delivery service, Yogiyo, operated by Delivery Hero Korea, also began offering 12 percent discounts on delivery fees anywhere in Seoul until the end of this month.



"You know all the food delivery firms are going through hardships now and we decided to give 2 percent more discounts than the other two rival firms. Considering that our margin is 12.5 percent, we barely make any profit from this," a Yogiyo official said.



This comes as Koreans are spending less on food delivery.



According to the March 2023 Online Shopping Trend released by Statistics Korea this month, the amount of online shopping transactions for food services in March fell 13 percent year-on-year to 2.1 trillion won ($1.59 billion).



"Various factors contribute to the current slump in the online food delivery service here. May is the most difficult time of the year for us as many people go out for dinner or travel abroad to celebrate Family Month. But most importantly, people are starting to find delivery fees to be too expensive and they are avoiding placing orders through food delivery apps. The three companies are giving out promotional discounts to lure customers back," a local food delivery firm official said.


Royal fans may have been left disappointed after Prince Louis didn't make an appearance at the Coronation concert at Windsor Castle yesterday evening - with many saying he was the only reason they tuned in.

It seems the Coronation celebrations may have continued too late for the cheeky royal - as it was reported yesterday that it was past his bedtime.

Even though Louis attended the Platinum Jubilee Pageant last year, alongside cousin August who hadn't even turned two at the time, the royal parents decided the youngest members of the family should stay at home last night.

Princess Beatrice's daughter, Sienna, who is one, and Princess Eugenie son August, two, did not go to the concert, while Zara and Mike Tindall's children, Mia, 9, Lena, four, and Lucas, two were also not seen.

Only the King's older grandchildren, Prince George, 9, Princess Charlotte, 8, and great-nieces Savannah Phillips, 12, and Isla Phillips, 11, were in attendance.

It seems the Coronation celebrations may have continued too late for Prince Louis - as it was reported yesterday that it was past his bedtime

The fourth-in-line to the throne attended his grandfather's coronation ceremony on Saturday at Westminster Abbey, where he stole the show yet again.

He disappeared from the two-hour ceremony for a while, with fans wondering where he had gone and whether he had been told off.

However, it was always the plan that the youngster would retire for some parts of the ceremony, which would have been a long time to sit still for the five-year-old.

Louis reappeared to sing the National Anthem at the ceremony, before leaving the Abbey to make an appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

Photos from inside the carriage after the ceremony saw Louis, five, peering out of the window - with some people taking to Twitter to say his style was echoing that of a James Bond villain.

The mischievous royal made a whole host of funny hilarious facial expressions from the balcony - including his signature yelling face during the flypast.

But it seems that Louis' antics also tired out his sister, Princess Charlotte, as the Princess of Wales said the eight-year-old was 'tired' after making sure her little brother, Louis, five, behaved himself during the Coronation service.

But that didn't stop her having a sing along to Katy Perry at the Coronation concert.

Prince George was also there, waving his Union Jack flag around while he jammed to the music with his family.

Peter Phillips' children, Isla 11, and Savannah, 12, were in attendance yesterday, with Isla speaking to Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak.

But it seems that Prince Louis was not the only young royal to be tucked in bed, as Princess Beatrice's daughter, Sienna, who is one, and Princess Eugenie son August, two, did not go to the concert.

Zara and Mike Tindall's children, Mia, 9, Lena, four, and Lucas, two were also not seen.

The mischievous royal made a whole host of funny hilarious facial expressions from the balcony - including his signature yelling face during the flypast

Princess Charlotte sung along to Katy Perry at the Coronation concert with her mother, Kate Middleton

Prince George was also there, waving his Union Jack flag around while he jammed to the music with his family

Peter Phillips' children, Isla 11, and Savannah, 12, were in attendance yesterday, with Isla speaking to Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak

Prince Louis attended the Platinum Pageant as part of the Jubilee celebrations last year, where he cheekily stuck his tongue out at his mother, Kate, and got told off

Prince Louis was pictured with his hands over his ears, yelling during the flypast during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations last year

Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank attended the concert, but they too did not bring their son, August, who is two years old.

Prince Louis attended the Platinum Pageant as part of the Jubilee celebrations last year, where he cheekily stuck his tongue out at his mother, Kate, and got told off.

His loyal followers took to Twitter to ask where he was during the concert - with some even commenting that they had tuned into the concert only to see him.

Fans of Prince Louis took to Twitter to ask where the young mischievous royal was - with some adding they tuned in just to see him

One commented: 'But where is Prince Louis? We tuned in to see him!'

Another wrote: 'Where is little Prince Louis? Oh it's not fun without him.'

A third penned in capital letters: 'WHERE IS PRINCE LOUIS.'

While a fourth said: 'Where is Prince Louis when you need him??'
Princess Charlotte put on the most adorable display while singing along to Katy Perry's 'Roar' at King Charles's star-studded Coronation concert.

The singing princess, 8, who celebrated her birthday last week, had a front row seat at her grandfather's historic concert, alongside her mother Kate Middleton.

She looked darling in a cream buttoned-up coat and black tiered chiffon dress from Self Portraits Kids, one of the Princess of Wales' favourite brands.

The music extravaganza was put on in honour of the crowning of King Charles and Queen Camilla at the official Coronation on May 6, and featured music sensations Lionel Richie and Katy Perry.

The princess and her mother were spotted having fun, with the junior royal showing her vocal prowess, as she adorably sang along to the US megastar's monster hit Roar.

Both Princess Charlotte, 8, and her mother Kate Middleton, 41, appeared to have the fun of a lifetime at King Charles's star-studded Coronation concert

Over 20,000 people made their way to the musical extravaganza which was headlined by Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and other stars

The sweet moment was shared on Twitter, as Charlotte sang along to the chorus and even joined mother Kate to wave their Coronation flags in unison to the beat.

Royal fans went wild over the video - which has since been viewed almost 800,000 times - with one person tweeting: 'OK I'm no royal watcher and ran across this by coincidence, but that is freaking cute.'

Another person agreed, adding: 'Looks like there's a new KatyCat', referring to the nickname given to the singer's most avid fans.

A third joined in and said: 'This Princess knows her music, so nice to see she gets to stay up on the new songs. This little girl is as classy as her mother, she has the greatest teacher. They are such a beautiful family.'

It comes amidst a busy few days for the little royal and her siblings, who all played a starring role in the Coronation to watch their grandfather being crowned King.

Prince George, nine, was selected as one of the monarch's Pages of Honour, while Charlotte took a protective and reassuring role with her younger brother Louis, five, at the event.

Charlotte was seen sitting alongside her little brother in a royal car with their parents after leaving the palace in the morning, and in the front row of the Abbey a short time later.

The singing princess, 8, who recently celebrated her birthday last week, had a front row seat to her grandfather's historic concert

Like mother like daughter! Kate and Charlotte energetically waved their Coronation flags together to the rhythm of the beat

The sweet moment has been viewed on Twitter almost 800,000 times, with Royal fans sharing their delight at the clip

She wore an Alexander McQueen dress and cape in ivory silk crepe with ivory stitch embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs, to signify the four nations.

She also wore a Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen Headpiece silver bullion, crystal and silver thread work, similar to the headpiece the Princess of Wales wore for the occasion.

Meanwhile, she held hands with her cheeky little brother during the opening moments of the historic service.

There she goes! The young princess stood up on her feet to catch a better view of the star-studded event

The young royals were well-dressed as they attended the musical extravaganza in Windsor, alongside other Royal Family members

It's been a busy few days for the little royal and her siblings, who all played a starring role in the Coronation to watch their grandfather being crowned King

They were immaculately behaved during the service, with Charlotte proving a reassuring presence to her younger brother, who couldn't help stifle a few yawns during the sacred service.

George, Charlotte and Louis were reunited after the service when they rode away from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace in a carriage with William and Kate.

Royal fans are loving the little royal's display of personality at her grandfather's Coronation concert

The trio later appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace with their parents, their newly crowned grandparents The King and Queen and the other working royals.

During this appearance, Charlotte could be seen sharing a giggle with her youngest brother, Prince Louis.

More than 18 million people in the UK tuned in to watch the ceremony on TV, compared with 26.5 million for the late Queen's funeral in September.
The Duchess of Edinburgh proved she is just like the rest of us as she let her hair down at the Coronation concert on Sunday night.

Sophie, 58, was beaming with joy as she boogied along to Lionel Richie as he sang his hit tunes 'All Night Long' and 'Easy Like Sunday Morning' in Windsor.

However the mum-of-two proved she was the most relatable royal with her carefree dance moves.

Royal fans took to Twitter to praise her free-spirited nature with someone claiming she is 'all of us who couldn't attend the concert but wanted to.'

Sophie was spotted in the crowd dancing in her chic coral midi dress which was from one of her favourite labels, Beulah.

The Duchess of Edinburgh proved she is just like the rest of us as she let her hair down at the Coronation concert on Sunday night

Fans flocked online to praise Sophie for being the 'most real' royal and letting her hair down.

One person wrote: 'Im still not over Sophie vibing to All Night Long'

Another wrote: 'An appreciation tweet for HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh. Sophie was living her best life tonight, singing & dancing (at times to the discomfort of James, but I always say what the point of having teenagers if you cant embarrass them) Go Soph. Love it.

Someone else said: 'Im sorry but I have just become a Sophie fan boy lol Its like shes in a music video with the the wind machine blow her hair looking all glamorous.'

Another said: 'Shes gorgeous. Representing beauty and rhythm for older women all over the world'

While another said: ' I have never wanted to party with a Royal more than I do after watch the way Sophie #DuchessofEdinburgh danced tonight! Sophie has moves.'

Sophie, 58, was beaming with joy as she boogied along to Lionel Richie as he sang his hit tunes 'All Night Long' and 'Easy Like Sunday Morning' in Windsor

Royal fans took to Twitter to praise her free-spirited nature with someone claiming she is 'all of us who couldn't attend the concert but wanted to'

Take That, Katy Perry, and others will be taking to the stage in Windsor last night for a musical extravaganza following the King's Coronation on Saturday.

The King, Queen and royal family joined around 20,000 members of the public at the musical extravaganza.

Heir to the throne William took to the stage to deliver a speech during the event with Kensington Palace sharing behind-the-scenes footage of the prince during rehearsals.

Earlier in the day, Sophie, and her husband Duke of Edinburgh, 59, attended a Big Lunch event in Cranleigh, Surrey.

Their visit came after the Duke and Duchess made a regal appearance at the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Sophie looked sensational in a coral figure hugging dress as she attended the concert celebrations, following the Coronation

Sophie appeared to interact with crowd at the concert this evening alongside the Royal Family

Edward, Sophie and Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and James Mountbatten-Windsor cheered for Lionel as Sophie showed off her dance moves

They were joined at Westminster Abbey by their two children, Lady Louise and James, Earl of Wessex.

Sophie donned a regal white Suzannah couture floor-length embroidered gown with a Jane Taylor headpiece and Royal Victorian Order Mantle, while her husband wore morning dress with a Garter Mantle over a black smart suit.

Meanwhile, Lady Louise, 19, who is a university student at St Andrew's, stole the show in a flowing white and blue floral gown and a chic headpiece.

James, Earl of Wessex, 15, who rarely makes public appearances, also looked smart in a black suit which he paired with a white shirt and a burgundy tie.

It comes after Buckingham Palace said the King and Queen were 'deeply touched' by the nation's celebration of their coronation.

Lionel Richie and Katy Perry got the crowd, and the Windsors, going wild as they performed their respective hits during the concert

King Charles, Queen Camilla and the royals go wild to Lionel Richie's All Night Long with the other people sat in the royal box

Sophie (pictured left, in the front row) looked typically elegant as she joined Prince Edward, Lady Louise and James, Earl of Wessex, at the star-studded Coronation concert this evening

Prince William gave a moving tribute to his father the King, mentioning the Queen and saying she would be 'very proud' of her son. He also cracked a joke about not talking 'all night long' - after the family danced to Lionel

More than 18 million people in the UK tuned in to watch the ceremony on TV, compared with 26.5 million for the late Queen's funeral in September.

After the ceremony, the family appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony with a select group of senior royals as The Mall was swamped by tens of thousands of cheering supporters.

Lady Louise and James stood beside their royal parents as they waved to crowds before a RAF flypast, which had to be scaled back to just helicopters and the Red Arrows because of the heavy rain in London.

Over the last two years, Lady Louise has taken on an increasingly public role as her parents Prince Edward and Sophie have been bumped up the royal food chain following the disgrace of Prince Andrew and the departure of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

She was front and centre in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, joined her parents at the Commonwealth Games and made her successful TV debut in a documentary about her beloved grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh.

Meanwhile, yesterday Buckingham Palace issued the first public statement on behalf of Charles and Camilla since they were crowned.

A Palace spokesman said the King and Queen were 'profoundly grateful' for all those involved in organising the celebrations and ceremony, and the spectators who attended the day.

'Their Majesties were deeply touched by the events of yesterday and profoundly grateful both to all those who helped to make it such a glorious occasion - and to the very many who turned out to show their support in such numbers in London and further afield,' he said.
Princess Charlotte looked adorable as she sported a new 210 chiffon dress at the Coronation concert yesterday evening.

Charlotte, eight, seemed to be taking after her stylish mother, The Princess of Wales, as she donned a new stylish gown for the special occasion at Windsor Castle.

The elegant cream coloured dress from Self-Portrait Kids - one of Kate's favourite brands - features a bold scallop-edged collar with a black trim.

On the neckline there is a black ribbon, which is tied neatly into a bow, while the ruffled chiffon skirt is triple tiered.

As it started getting later into the evening, Princess Charlotte wore a Razorbil Summer Coat from Amaia London, which retails for 140.

Charlotte, eight, seems to be taking after her stylish mother, The Princess of Wales, as she donned a new stylish gown for the special occasion at Windsor Castle

For her first joint engagement with Princess Anne in 2022, Kate wore an elegant 400 Self Portrait oatmeal dress to visit the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) (left). Kate wore a 350 green Self Portrait gown with 525 white Jimmy Choo heels and 57 earrings from a local designer to visit a school in the Bahamas in March 2022 (right)

The third-in-line to the throne has donned this particular coat on previous occasions, making it a wardrobe staple for the young royal.

The coat is 100 per cent cotton and is handcrafted in Spain at a small family owned atelier.

Princess Charlotte then paired these with white Siena shoes from Papouelli London, which cost 85.

Self Portrait is a staple in Kate's wardrobe and she's chosen the brand, which is seen as an affordable designer label, for several engagements over the years.

For her first joint engagement with Princess Anne in 2022, she wore an elegant 400 Self Portrait oatmeal dress, which was cinched at the waist with a dainty belt and featured delicate floral details, to visit the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM).

And on her Caribbean tour in March 2022, she wore a 350 pastel green Self Portrait dress for a school visit - her first engagement in The Bahamas.

The young royal had a great time at the Coronation concert yesterday, as she sung along to Katy Perry.

The princess and her mother, The Princess of Wales, were spotted having fun, with Charlotte showing her vocal prowess, as she adorably sang along to the US megastar's monster hit, Roar.

The music extravaganza was put on in honour of the crowning of King Charles and Queen Camilla at the official Coronation on May 6, and featured music sensations Lionel Richie and Katy Perry.

The Princess of Wales said her daughter was 'tired' after making sure her little brother, Louis, five, behaved himself during the Coronation service on Saturday.

As it started getting later into the evening, Princess Charlotte wore a Razorbil Summer Coat from Amaia London, which retails for 140

Princess Charlotte offered a calming hand to younger brother Prince Louis as the pair arrived in Westminster Abbey to watch their grandfather's Coronation ceremony on Saturday

Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis at the coronation ceremony of King Charles III and Queen Camilla in Westminster Abbey, London

She took on a protective role, as she was seen sitting alongside her little brother Prince Louis, in a royal car with their parents after leaving the palace, and in the front row of the Abbey a short time later.

The siblings held hands during the opening moments of the historic service.

Charlotte and Louis arrived without their older brother Prince George, nine, who was a Page of Honour for his grandfather.

They were immaculately behaved during the service, with Charlotte proving a reassuring presence to her younger brother, who couldn't help stifle a few yawns during the sacred service.

George, Charlotte and Louis were reunited after the service when they rode away from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace in a carriage with their parents.
Meghan Markle stepped out for a hike in California just hours after missing King Charles's Coronation - wearing tributes to both the King and her late mother-in-law Princess Diana.

The Duchess of Sussex, 41, transformed an otherwise simple activewear look into a more dazzling ensemble with jewellery worth 157,055, as she teamed her leggings and vest with her late mother-in-law Princess Diana's 17,800 Cartier wristwatch.

She also wore a Cartier tennis bracelet, inherited from Princess Diana. It has previously been estimated it could sell for 125,000 at auction due to its history.

And despite not attending the Coronation, Meghan paid tribute to her father-in-law the King by wearing a Bentley & Skinner diamond tennis bracelet - believed to be a gift from the royal and worth at least 4,900 - which she stacked atop a 3,965 Jennifer Meyer Gold Mini Bezel tennis bracelet.

Alongside these pieces, the mother-of-two rocked a 5,000 Cartier Love bracelet as well as donning a 390 May Brenner x Abigail Spencer The Clarity Retreat Necklace.

The necklace - which is now sold out - forms part of a collection made by best pal and former Suits colleague Abigail Spencer, also 41.

The Duchess of Sussex, 41, was an image of perfection, as she teamed her ensemble with her late mother-in-law Princess Diana 's 17,800 Cartier wristwatch and pal Abigail Spencer's $495 necklace

Meghan was spotted on a 40-minute hike a short distance from her and Prince Harry's $14million home on Sunday morning (May 7)

The Duchess who celebrated her son Archie's birthday on Saturday, effortlessly rocked the statement pieces while hiking out in the fresh air without her husband, Prince Harry , near their $14million Montecito mansion

Made with a hand-cut clear quartz, it features a crystal wrapped in a 14k gold band and a 2.5mm diamond. The 20-inch diamond-cut chain also has an additional jump ring at 18 inches for alternate length options.

Jewellery designer Maya Brenner worked with longtime friend and actress Abigail Spencer to create a Retreat capsule collection of four necklaces aimed at helping people protect their inner peace.

The Clarity Retreat Necklace is said to be a powerful energy amplifier that helps you manifest what you want in life, while letting go of anything that's not working.

The two beauties met at an audition 10 years before Meghan married Prince Harry, and also both starred in US hit TV series Suits together.

The duchess, who celebrated her son Archie's birthday on Saturday, effortlessly rocked the statement pieces while hiking out in the fresh air without her husband, Prince Harry, near their $14million Montecito mansion.

For her day out, the mother-of-two looked chic in a sporty outfit complete with a $128 J. Crew lightweight jacket in colour dark moss, and a close-fit black vest and fitted black leggings.

She wore her dark tresses pulled back in a low ponytail under a straw fedora hat, and topped off the look with a pair of Victoria Beckham 'Navigator Power' glasses on her makeup-free face.

The stylish mother-of-two also rocked a 5,000 Cartier Love bracelet

Meghan's elegant timepiece was originally owned by Diana, who is seen wearing it on her wrist at an engagement at the British Lung Foundation in 1997

Meghan wore the Cartier Tank watch, as pictured, gifted by Harry that once belonged to Princess Diana

Diana wearing the diamond tennis bracelet which now belongs to Meghan

Meghan also modelled her pal's Maya Brenner x Abigail Spencer The Clarity Retreat Necklace, which is priced at 390

The Jennifer Meyer Gold Mini Bezel tennis bracelet is polished in 18-karat yellow gold, and retails at 3,965

The Bentley & Skinner diamond line tennis bracelet (pictured on Meghan in May 2018) features forty-eight round brilliant-cut diamonds weighing seven carats in total, worth at least 4,900

She cut a stylish figure in brown hiking sneakers and thick blue socks, as she made her way along the hiking route with friends, Markus Anderson and Heather Dorak.

She further accessorised the look with a mauve neck scarf, a yellow gold wedding band, and a Lorraine Schwartz emerald cut diamond pinky ring.

Harry, who rushed back to California straight after his father's Coronation, did not seem to attend the hike.

Meghan's latest outing comes just two days after her husband Prince Harry attended his father King Charles' Coronation at Westminster Abbey in London.

But the King's son slipped out of the venue with only the briefest of goodbyes and headed straight for Heathrow Airport in a blacked-out electric BMW.

After just 28 hours and 42 minutes in the UK, he was back on the plane to California before his father and stepmother Queen Camilla had even finished having their official portraits taken.

There was no sign of the Prince who only returned home to California from the London Coronation the previous night

Meghan and Abigail Spencer have been close pals for over 10 years and both starred in US hit TV series Suits

He was pictured smiling broadly as he arrived at the airports Windsor suite before boarding his British Airways flight - still in morning suit and sporting his medals.

But the King's Coronation on Saturday was not the only important date in the family's calendar. It also coincided with son Archie's fourth birthday.

Archie was born in 2019 with the Sussexes then having their second child, Lilibet Diana, in 2021.
King Harald of Norway, 86, has been admitted to hospital, where he is being treated for an infection.

The King is under care at Oslo's main hospital, Rikshospitalet, where his condition is reportedly stable.

A brief statement from the palace today read: 'The king has been diagnosed with an infection that needs to be treated, and will therefore remain in hospital for a few days.'

The royal has been relying on crutches for a number of years and this is the second time has been admitted to hospital in the past six months.

In December, the monarch was treated for an infection at the same hospital, where he received an intravenous antibiotic treatment.

King Harald of Norway, 86, has been admitted to hospital, where he is being treated for an infection

The father of Crown Prince Haakon also underwent a leg operation in January before contracting Covid-19 in March, and spent time in hospital in August with another infection.

He went through a successful operation to replace a heart valve in October 2020 after being admitted to hospital with breathing difficulties.

Crown Prince Haakon, 49, Harald's son, will take over the monarch's duties while he is in hospital.

The development comes after the Crown Prince attended the Coronation of King Charles III with his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, on Saturday.

Haakon donned ceremonial military attire for the event. Meanwhile, Mette-Marit was elegant in pale pink, wearing a monochrome outfit with matching midi-dress, hat, gloves and stiletto pumps.

The pair were also hosted by the Prince and Princess of Wales in March during their two-day visit to promote an increased business sector with a focus on green industrial transition, innovation and energy alongside a promotion of Norwegian literature and music.

The Norwegian Royal Family, with King Harald and his wife Queen Sonja at its head, has been under the spotlight recently.

The King is under care at Oslo's main hospital, Rikshospitalet (pictured), where his condition is reportedly stable

Crown Prince Haakon, 49, Harald's son, will take over the monarch's duties while he is in hospital

The Crown Prince attended the Coronation of King Charles III with his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, on Saturday

Princess Martha Louise, the King and Queen's eldest child, recently revealed that her decision to step back from royal duties was filled with 'turmoil'.

The princess, 51, who describes herself as 'spiritual' and claims to be a clairvoyant spoke to the BBC for the first time since she announced she was stepping back from royal duties in November.

She also spoke about being able to 'see things', a gift she believes she has had from being a young child.

When asked about her decision in comparison with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who also stepped down as senior royals, she spoke about her 'amazing' family, including King Harald and Queen Sonja, and how the dialogue between them has always remained open.

'What I think has been amazing through this whole cycle has been the conversations we have had through it all,' she said.

Princess Martha Louise, 51, revealed her reasons for stepping back from royal duties in an interview with the BBC, six months on from her decision

The royal praised her parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja, for always keeping channels of communication open and encouraging conversation, even in difficult times

'From a very young age I remember my mum and dad saying (the King and Queen saying) that we always have to stick together. We always have to talk things through even if it's hard, we have to put all the cards on the table because we are family and we have to work things through.'

The Norwegian royal, who is engaged to American businessman Durek Verrett, also discussed how her fiance's controversial 'views' had contributed to how the public viewed her position in the royal family.

She said: 'The Norwegian people I guess... have decided it's best for me to step down because of his views about things.'

Durek, who describes himself as a 'Shaman', was dropped by his publisher shortly after the couple announced their engagement in June 2022 over pseudoscientific claims he made in his book 'Spirit Hacking'.

Among the claims were that children 'can get cancer from being unhappy'.

Durek has also claimed he once came back from the dead, recovering from a month-long coma, by letting his soul 'burn' and he has also spoken of having to undergo a kidney transplant from his sister as a child.

It is unclear why he needed the kidney or how he became wheelchair bound, as he has described. The illness which sent him into a coma is also undisclosed.
Princess Anne looked elegant as she attended the Service of Celebration recognising local volunteers at Gloucester Cathedral.

The Princess Royal, 72, was there with her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, kicking off a third day of celebrations to mark the Coronation.

She looked classy in a teal blue long-line coat, blue gloves and a navy bag over her shoulder.

Anne wore her hair in her signature sleek up-do, and paired her outfit with classic navy heels.

The service this morning will be led by the Dean of the Cathedral, Andrew Zihni.

Princess Anne greeted people at Gloucester Cathedral as part of the Big Help Out day

Princess Anne was pictured shaking hands in the Cathedral as she kicks off another day of Coronation events.

The Princess royal attracted a crowd of fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal as she greeted people at the event.

Although many royals attended the Coronation concert yesterday evening at Windsor Castle, Anne decided to give it a miss, no doubt because she was the first member of the royal family on duty this morning - with Kate and Sophie due to join The Big Help Out later today.

Her daughter, Zara Tindall was at the concert with her husband Mike, however they did not take their children, Mia, Lucas and Lena.

Anne's son, Peter Phillips also attended with his two daughters, Savannah, 12 and Isla, 11.

However the Princess Royal and Sir Tim Laurence were present at a Coronation street party in Swindon, Wiltshire yesterday.

Anne looked relaxed as she arrived at the party, where she met well-wishers and enjoyed a cup of tea.

The royal crouched to speak to a little girl who held out her five fingers to her, possibly to tell her how old she was.

The Princess Royal looked classy in a teal blue long-line coat, with a black bag over her shoulder

Anne wore her hair in her signature sleek up-do, and paired her outfit with classic onyx heels

The Princess royal attracted a crowd of fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal as she greeted people at the event
Princess Charlotte showed off her archery skills as she made a surprise appearance at the Big Help Out initiative in Slough this morning.

The eight-year-old delighted volunteers as she arrived at a local Scouts headquarters along with William, 40, Kate, 41, as well as brothers George, nine, and Louis, five.

Following on from the Coronation concert last night, the family spent hours renovating some Scouts huts for local members to use.

After this, the family-of-five happily participated in some of the activities on offer with Scouts - including finger-painting, toasting marshmallows and operating a digger.

While exploring the headquarters, Princess Charlotte also gave archery a go - and looked perfectly at ease with the plastic bow and arrow.

Princess Charlotte, eight, looked like a pro as she operated her plastic bow and arrow at the volunteering event in Slough

Dressed in a 299 Ralph Lauren pink cable knit jumper, jean shorts and 20 trainers, Charlotte wore a yellow-and-purple Scouts tie around her neck.

Kate and William's second child looked like a pro as she operated the bow and eyed up her target ahead of time.

Charlotte appeared to channel all her strength into the task at hand and frowned slightly as she let go of the bow.

Having clearly inherited her mother's sporting talents, Charlotte managed to get an instant bullseye on her first try - blowing her brothers out of the park.

After shovelling sand and getting behind the wheel of a JCB, Prince Louis attempted to shoot the bow and arrow.

Determined not to accept any help, Prince Louis ran back and forth several times to pick up his arrows and hit the target on multiple occasions.

The adorable five-year-old grimaced as he studied the target in front of him - trying his best to keep up with his older siblings.

Come on, Louis, you can do it, Kate called.

The Prince and Princess of Wales' daughter put all her strength into the task and frowned as she released the bow

Dressed in a pink cable knit jumper, jean shorts and white trainers, Charlotte wore a yellow-and-purple Scouts tie around her neck

Prince Louis, five, was also determined to keep up with his siblings and pulled an animated face as he tried some archery

Prince George had both his parents watching over him as he tried his hand at archery this morning

Prince William was on hand to offer Prince George some archery tips during the Big Help Out event

When it was Prince George's turn, he decided to go up against his parents.

But as he tried it out, Prince William provided his son with some tips as he watched over his shoulder.

Finally, the Princess of Wales tried her hand at the activity too. Although the Princess did have the slight advantage of having taken an archery lesson during a 2016 royal visit to Bhutan.

While the Princess of Wales was all smiles as she listened to her instructor, Prince William appeared to take the task incredibly seriously and looked incredibly focus as he drew his bow.

What's more, Kate was seen pushing a wheelbarrow while her youngest son shoveled in sand as they helped spruce up a Slough scout hut.

The Prince of Wales, 40, appeared focused on the task at hand as he operated the plastic bow and arrow

The Princess of Wales had the slight advantage of having taken an archery lesson during a 2016 royal visit to Bhutan

Prince Louis was animated as ever as he tried out the archery during the volunteering event in Slough

He then took control, steering it expertly as his mum supported its weight.

Charlotte was seen delightedly running to help prepare a new path while George, a future king himself, was spotted learning how to use a power drill.

The couple and their three children were out and about again to mark the third day of the Kings Coronation, and Charles III's life of service.

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Outs work.

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB on his father's lap.

Prince Louis takes control of a wheelbarrow as he helps his mother, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales take part in the Big Help Out in Slough

Prince George also got stuck into the work and was pictured using a power drill as they renovated an old Scouts hut

Princess Charlotte and Prince George watched on as their little brother and their father went digging

The Princess of Wales was seen speaking to a person in the crowd and said Charlotte was in year three at school

William and Kate attended in support of the Big Help Out along with other senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

The Big Help Out scheme, which aims to inspire a new generation of volunteers by giving people a taster of what they can achieve, has been backed by celebrities across the country.

The scheme, which aims to inspire a new generation of volunteers by giving people a taster of what they can achieve, has been backed by celebrities across the country.

More than 1,500 charities have signed up. The Big Help Out has been organised by The Together Coalition and leading charities.
Prince Louis showed off his cheeky side yet again this afternoon as he got stuck in to a spot of hand painting with his dad Prince William.

The Prince of Wales and wife Kate were joined by their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis during a visit to the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough, west of London on Monday, where they were tasked with helping improve the building.

Inside the scout hut the family, including Louis, added their handprints to a tree on the wall made up of all those who have contributed to the volunteer effort.

One followed volunteer asked Louis: You might want to be a painter when you grow up?

No a fighter pilot, he responded.

Just like your father and grandfather! the lady replied.

Five-year-old Prince Louis even got stuck in to some hand painting alongside his dad Prince William as they were tasked with helping improve the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut building in Slough

Hey poppet, said Kate to Louis as her younger child delightedly grabbed a brush. She encouraged him to paint her hand first, liberally covering it with yellow paint.

He then led his mother by the hand and encouraged him to place her hand on the wall. Ready, steady, go. Good job! Kate smiled.

But that clearly wasnt going to be enough for Louis and, as his mother washed her hands, he went off to get some paint for himself.

He first chose some yellow paint and started putting it on his hands with the princesss encouragement before make his own handprint. Good job, Kate said.

Louis decided to have a go again, looking carefully to make sure every spot of skin was covered, before finding another spot on the mural to place his hand. Do you want to put it next to me? asked Kate.

Louis washed his hands carefully - but then decided that simply wasnt enough. He covered his mothers, and then his own hand, with blue paint. One more! he urged her.

They were then joined by Charlotte who wanted to make her own. We are running about of space. Oh look theres a gap there,' said Kate, pointing to a spot.

Louis proudly pointed out his handprints. Look! There, there, there and there!

People across Britain were asked to do their duty as the celebrations for King Charles III's coronation drew to a close with a massive volunteering drive today.

Earlier in the day Louis sat operating a digger with his father while his brother and sister watched with a hint of nerves.

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB.

And it didn't end there, Kate was seen pushing a wheelbarrow while her youngest son shoveled in sand as they helped spruce up a Slough scout hut.

He then took control, steering it expertly as his mum supported its weight.

When his work was done he devoured marshmallows with his father, who was heard declaring: 'You've made his day' as he chomped on a S'more.

Charlotte was seen delightedly running to help prepare a new path while George, a future king himself, was spotted learning how to use a power drill. All three young Waleses had a crack at archery too.

Prince William appeared to be making the leaves of a tree with green paint handprints on a white wall in the scouts hut

Louis appeared deep in thought as he worked hard on his masterpiece alongside his father

Royal reporter Rebecca English shared snaps of the royal's handprints on the wall which were labelled with their names

Prince William and Prince George also got stuck in on the painting action and created a colourful display

The couple and their three children were out and about again to mark the third day of the Kings Coronation, and Charles III's life of service.

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Outs work.

William and Kate attended in support of the Big Help Out along with other senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

Princess Anne and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Lawrence, are at a civic service recognising local volunteers at Gloucester Cathedral, which will be followed by a special reception for invited volunteers and charity representatives from across Gloucestershire.

George used his hand to make paint decorations on a wall while taking part in the Big Help Out

The family pose with volunteers who are taking part in the Big Help Out, during a visit to the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough

It was a thumbs up from Kate who had her little helper Louis with her, holding his hand tightly

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB on his father's lap

Princess Charlotte tries her hand at archery while taking part in the Big Help Out

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as a patron of Guide Dogs, is attending a puppy training class at the Guide Dogs Training Centre in Reading with her husband, Prince Edward.

There are over 8million opportunities to get involved today, with more than 52,000 events happening across the nation.

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area, including the local mosque, a senior citizens contact group for members of the Asian community and the Scout group themselves.

The building is also used by Slough All Nations, a group with heritage spanning across St. Kitts & Nevis, and which provides recreation and leisure activities to improve health and wellbeing and promote community cohesion.
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Chung Hwang-keun speaks during a press briefing at the Sejong Government Complex, Monday. Yonhap



By Lee Kyung-min



Promotion of greater use of floury rice to help bolster food self-sufficiency, fostering of IT-savvy young farmers and agricultural land zoning to prevent haphazard development in rural areas will be the top three priorities of the government, the country's top agriculture policymaker said Monday.



Underpinning the first of three  food security  is Korea's floury rice, developed by the ministry-affiliated Rural Development Administration to better utilize surplus rice in Korea.



Floury rice is easy to store and more suited for food processing  characteristic strengths of wheat, almost all of which is imported. This is why it can help reduce dependence on wheat imports, according to Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Chung Hwang-keun.



"The government plans to have the floury rice replace as much as 10 percent of imported wheat, thereby increasing the country's food self-sufficiency rate to 55.5 percent by 2027, up from 44.4 percent in 2021," Chung said in a press briefing at the Sejong Government Complex, organized on the occasion of marking the Yoon Suk Yeol administration's first year in office.



Floury rice food programs will be fortified to not only tackle decadeslong local oversupply of the once-popular staple crop but also to help ease the hunger crisis in Africa. The much-lauded initiative of the agriculture ministry is an excellent example of how Korea-led overseas development assistance (ODA) drives can contribute to advancing inclusive growth.



"Our international aid program is highly regarded by the World Food Program (WFP)," he said.



The "K-rice belt" program includes Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Ghana, Cameroon, Uganda and Kenya. The countries have geographical and weather conditions unfavorable to growing crops, but Korea can help identify ways to foster agriculture.



Smart farming led by young farmers should be, the minister added, the answer to elevating the traditionally labor-intensive industry to a new growth and innovation driver.



"Only about 1.2 percent of the country's farmers are aged 39 and younger in the rural areas. How can we discuss the future of the agriculture industry without policies to nurture young industry leaders? More policy incentives will be provided for young farmers seeking to embrace IT-powered business models in animal, rice, fruit and vegetable farms."



The young farmers of today say they see business opportunities everywhere, unlike those born and raised in rural areas in a family of farmers, he said.



The "outsiders" say, according to Chung, that smart farming will be a key source of stable income, and the earnings will only grow in the long term.



However, those born into farming families are not as willing or enthusiastic in their efforts to innovate the industry into a new growth driver, and prefer to seek government support arguing that they are struggling and left helpless due to changes in people's eating habits, according to Chung.



"The government policies will have to help the positive thinkers explore opportunities and stay in business," he said.



The guidelines on the zoning of agricultural lands will be outlined clearly this year, after the National Assembly passed a related bill in February.



The construction of buildings will be allowed only when the land to house them matches the state-registered purposes of the buildings. They can be for residential, industrial, power supply or tourism purposes.


Prince Louis once again stole the show this Bank holiday weekend as he joined his parents and siblings for a day of volunteering for The Big Help Out - and shared a playful moment with his sister Princess Charlotte, who kept an eye on him during the historic Coronation ceremony on Saturday.

The young royal, five, may have been absent at yesterday's concert - but this morning showed off his cheeky personality as he took part in his first public engagement.

As the family rolled their sleeves up to renovate a building in Slough, fan-favourite Louis was full of energy as he bounced about while the Prince and Princess of Wales later toasted marshmallows and chatted to people from the area.

The little Prince absolutely devoured the sweet treat and was also seen chomping down on a S'more, made with biscuits and some chocolate.

Louis then staggered about jokingly and rolled his head in delight, knocking into his sister Princess Charlotte, eight, who - seemingly used to her little brother's antics - simply smiled as she bit into her own sweet snack.

As the family rolled their sleeves up to renovate a building in Slough, fan-favourite Louis was full of energy as he bounced about while the Prince and Princess of Wales later toasted marshmallows

Before they left it was time to toast some marshmallows, Louis excitedly high-giving a group of other children as he did.

The children were each given a wooden stick with sweet treats on it and held them over a brazier.

'Is that getting warm,' asked Kate, as Louis put his hand over his face as the smoke started to sting his eyes.

'I like mine just like this!' he declared and started pulling the marshmallows off enthusiastically with his teeth.

He held his arm up in air and tried to grab another one off his mother, popping his spent stick in the fire.

His eyes lit up when he was handed a 'S'more' - a marshmallow with chocolate sandwiched been two biscuits.

'What do you say?' encouraged Kate.

'You've made his day!' Interjected William. 'We won't hear a peep out of him.'

Louis shared a playful moment with his sister Princess Charlotte, who kept an eye on him during the historic Coronation ceremony on Saturday

Will and Kate's decision to bring their young family was kept secret until they arrived in order minimise any fuss for the youngsters who are being slowly introduced to the idea of public engagements.

The family were also insistent that the children get 'properly stuck in' and lend a hand - which they certainly did.

The children set to work straight away with Charlotte and Louis helping to paint a planter and George joining his father with some drilling.

The two youngest children knelt down, grabbing brushes dripping with white masonry paint, obvious to the fact that they were getting it on their hair and bare legs.

One volunteer asked Louis: 'You might want to be a painter when you grow up?'

It's clear the sugar may have gotten to the five-year-old, as he was then seen dramatically swaying around his sister as he bit into the meal.

The little Prince absolutely devoured the sweet treat and was also seen chomping down on a S'more

'No a fighter pilot,' he responded.

'Just like your father and grandfather!' the lady replied.

The children worked away uncomplainingly while the Princess of Wales hovered over them, letting them do their worst. 'Well done Louis!' She said.

When Kate tried to interject and advise Charlotte on what to do, her daughter said firmly but politely: 'I don't like this.'

'Good job,' she told Louis, 'well done.'

Charlotte told her brother: 'You've got paint in your hair! Louis, look at me! Look at me! '

'Yes Louis, look at Charlotte,' the adult volunteer advised.

Louis seemed supremely unbothered.

'You've got to wipe it,' Charlotte gently admonished him.

The family was visiting the Upton Scouts Hut in Slough, west of London, as they joined in to help volunteers on the project.

Kate, 41, was seen pushing a wheelbarrow while her youngest son shoveled in sand. He then took control, steering it expertly as his mother supported its weight.

Charlotte was seen delightedly running to help prepare a new path while George, a future king himself, was spotted learning how to use a power drill. All three young Wales' had a crack at archery too but while George did get the controls of the digger, Charlotte appears to have declined.

Princess Charlotte, eight - seemingly used to her little brother's antics - simply smiled as she bit into her own S'more

Daniel Madigan, from the 1st Chippenham scout troop, said the George, Louis and Charlotte joined in all the outdoor activities that had been laid on.

'I saw them toasting some marshmallows. They seemed to enjoy it,' he said.

'Louis also helped move from sand into a wheelbarrow.'

The couple and their three children were out and about again to mark the third day of the King's Coronation, and Charles III's life of service.

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers in resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Out's work.

William and Kate,who were casually dressed, wore scarfs from the 3rd Upton Scout Group as they mingled with scouts and leaders taking part in The Big Help event  one of thousands across the country to mark the end of the coronation.

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers in resetting a path among other tasks

Prince Louis and his family enjoyed chomping down on some marshmallows at the fire this afternoon

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area. The Wales family pictured enjoying the marshmallows

Mr Madigan said the Big Help Out event was to make improvements to the scout hut, including building a ramp at the rear of the scout hut to make it more accessible.

As the Princess of Wales left she stopped to talk to local resident Donna Robinson who was standing by a barricade with her seven year old daughter Ciara.

The Princess, casually dressed in a blue top and dark coloured trousers, held on to Louis's hand as she stopped to say hello and asked Donna how old her daughter was.

Donna said: 'She asked what year Ciara was and was lovely.'

Other senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, are also getting involved in volunteering today.

Princess Anne and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Lawrence, are at a civic service recognising local volunteers at Gloucester Cathedral, which will be followed by a special reception for invited volunteers and charity representatives from across Gloucestershire.

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB on his father's lap.

Louis and William were helping create a new path and new beds for a Slough scout hut earlier today

Charlotte and George watched on as their little brother and their father went digging, with George appearing to bite his nails

Princess Charlotte expertly fires an arrow towards the target as she chipped in to The Big Help Out

Prince Louis takes control of a wheelbarrow as he helps his mother, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales take part in the Big Help Out in Slough. Louis also helped fill the barrow

Louis and his paint-covered hand, ready to put on a wall as he enjoyed the volunteering earlier today

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as a patron of Guide Dogs, is attending a puppy training class at the Guide Dogs Training Centre in Reading with her husband, Prince Edward.

There are over 8million opportunities to get involved today, with more than 52,000 events happening across the nation.

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area, including the local mosque, a senior citizens contact group for members of the Asian community and the Scout group themselves.

The building is also used by 'Slough All Nations,' a group with heritage spanning across St. Kitts & Nevis, and which provides recreation and leisure activities to improve health and wellbeing and promote community cohesion.

Among other planned events, the Royal Parks is holding a drop-in session in Green Park in central London, close to Buckingham Palace, where volunteers can plant wild flowers in the same spot where the public laid floral tributes to the late Queen.

The Duke of Gloucester, the late Queen's first cousin, and his wife Birgitte are meeting young volunteers at a Coronation party at St Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church in Kensington, west London.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is helping out at a lunch club, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer will hit the phones with the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford is volunteering at a local charity shop, and Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is volunteering at a local community larder.

Mr Sunak said: 'The Big Help Out is not only a chance for everyone to come together to mark His Majesty's Coronation, it's also a reminder of how each and every one of us can help make a change for the better.

'It is this community spirit that binds us and makes us stronger as a country, and I hope that as part of the legacy of this historic moment of national unity, people will be inspired for years to volunteer, to help out and to make a difference to others around them.'
The 'world's strongest man' Eddie Hall was left stunned by the contents of a mystery storage container he won for 12,500 auction.

In a video posted on YouTube, the boxer, 35, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, explained how he was encouraged to bid for the storage unit by a friend who discovered it once belonged to a jeweller.

Filming outside the Adam Partidge Auctioneer and Valuers in Macclesfield, Eddie said: 'I've got a tip-off from a pal that there's a container on auction today and it belonged to an old pal of his who was an old jeweller.

'He was a jeweller for fifty years and then he went into a home and this container has been here for ten years.

'He's sadly passed away and this container is up for auction today.'

Eddie 'The Beast' Hall, 35, spent 12,500 on a mystery container at an auction in Macclesfield

He and his friend Paddy found two safes inside the container, inside which they found coins and a diamond ring

However, Eddie's bargain hunt got off to a rocky start after he accidentally knocked over a Victorian cut glass vase in the auction house and had to pay out 1,000 in compensation.

But he eventually secured the container for a total of 12,500 which was delivered two days later to a car park in Stoke-on-Trent.

After successfully winning the item at auction, Eddie then had to spend several hours breaking open the container to discover its unknown contents.

With the assistance of his friend Paddy, the pair had to take a trip to buy some bolt cutters and a crowbar before they could open up the container.

While sorting through the contents, Eddie explained: 'My mate told me this guy put all his stuff in the container to move...and then ended up going into a home because his mental health deteriorated.

'Whilst he was in a home he died, so this is one of his containers...and this is the one on a certain plot of land that was rumoured to have some safes in.'

The pair unpacked sofas, a television and a fire extinguisher before hitting upon the two locked safes.

After piling up the furniture, Eddie discovered the safes contained gold coins and a diamond ring as well as a 2008 Bentley car - estimated to be worth 40,000.

The pair had to try opening the safes with a sledgehammer before resorting to running over it with a tank

Eddie and Paddy drilled the safes with a digger and managed to ply it open with a crowbar

They also discovered a 2008 Bentley at the back of the container, which they estimated would sell for the most money of all the discovered items

The car was in good condition and Eddie managed to get it to whir to life by using a booster pack

After analysing previous sales of similar Bentley cars, Eddie estimated it could sell for around 40,000

After making use of a sledgehammer and a series of drills, they resorted to running the box over with a tank and drilling it with a digger. This is how they uncovered what appeared to be 12 gold sovereign coins inside.

In the second safe, the pair discovered a five pound coin from the 1970s and a penny, before they finally found a diamond ring.

For their last find, the pair uncovered a Bentley - complete with some branded umbrellas. They managed to get the engine started again with the help of a booster pack.

Signing off the video, Eddie estimated how much he could make from reselling some of the goods.

He concluded that the gold coins would sell for a minimum of 4,000, the diamond ring for 1,500, the rare coins for 100, tools for a total of 2,000, a train collection for 1000 and the car for approximately 40,000.

Having spent 15,000 on the storage box in total, Eddie said his overall profit would reach around 33,600.

He added: 'I'll take that all day.'

Eddie was the UK's strongest man for six years in a row and is nicknamed 'the beast' for his massive size at six foot, three inches and 25 stone.
Ivanka Trump put on a very stylish display at the Miami Formula 1 Grand Prix on Sunday.

The former First Daughter looked effortlessly chic on race day as she opted for an ensemble of neutral tones.

She slipped into a pair of white linen trousers and a tailored beige waistcoat before accessorizing with a pair of statement gold earrings and tortoise-shell sunglasses.

Ivanka, 41, initially wore her long blonde hair in a low bun before letting her locks cascade down in later snaps.

The former First Daughter, 41, looked effortlessly chic on race day as she opted for an ensemble of neutral tones

She slipped into a pair of white linen trousers and a tailored beige waistcoat before accessorizing with a pair of statement gold earrings and tortoise-shell sunglasses

Ivanka shared a slew of snaps from her position overlooking the starting grid at the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday

The mother-of-three also shared an image to Instagram showing an aerial shot of the Grand Prix track

Ivanka took to Instagram to share a slew of photos and videos from the Grand Prix on Sunday.

She posed up a storm from her position overlooking the starting grid before also sharing an image alongside 42-year-old husband Jared Kushner as well as an aerial shot of the track.

And it seems that the couple have had quite the whirlwind weekend.

The pair were among the A-listers who went to Carbone Beach - an extravagant four-night supper club built to celebrate Miami's racing week - on Saturday evening.

It was there that they rubbed shoulders with the likes of billionaire Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, 59, and girlfriend Lauren Sanchez, 53.

The attendees, who forked out $3,000-a-night on reservations, were treated to cuisine from Italian restaurant Carbone in an ambiance that has been described as something out of The Great Gatsby.

Ahead of the event, the creators of the special F1 pop-up vowed that the exclusive experience would be even more opulent and crazy than 2022 - with a cocktail hour that led into a seated dinner.

Mario Carbone, managing partner of Major Food Group, said of the occasion: 'Hosting Carbone Beach during Formula 1 in Miami is the ultimate merger of adrenaline, luxury, and hospitality.

The couple were among the A-listers who went to Carbone Beach - an extravagant four-night supper club built to celebrate Miami's racing week - on Saturday evening

Ivanka Trump brought color to the event - wearing an off-the-shoulder beaded swirl-patterned mini dress, a clutch bag, and red shoes

And it seems that Ivanka also got a front row spot at an intimate Jonas Brothers concert following the night out

'It's a spectacle that brings together unparalleled energy and glamour.

'This year will be even bigger and more lavish than our inaugural year.

'We expect to surpass that level of excitement and decadence, creating an unforgettable experience with new performances and indulgences that are truly over-the-top.'

Ivanka brought color to the event - wearing an off-the-shoulder beaded swirl-patterned mini dress, a clutch bag, and red shoes.

But Kushner kept it simple yet stylsih in blue jeans and a crew neck jumper which he later removed to expose a plain white tee.

Ivanka was able to claim a front row spot at an intimate Jonas Brothers concert following the dinner.

The mother-of-three shared a video of Nick Jonas singing a rendition of Jealous.

It comes after Lara Trump insisted that there was no bad blood between sister-in-law Ivanka and the rest of the family following the news that the former First Daughter had dropped her brothers' lawyers in a $250 million fraud lawsuit against the Trumps.

It comes after Lara Trump insisted that there was no bad blood between her sister-in-law Ivanka and the rest of the family

News hit the web last month that Ivanka had fired the attorneys who were representing her and her siblings Eric and Don Jr . in Letitia James' fraud suit against the Trumps (seen in 2014)

It was revealed last month that Ivanka had fired the attorneys who were representing her and her siblings Eric and Don Jr. in Letitia James' fraud suit against her family.

Some suggested that the move might be an indication that there is a froideur between Trump's eldest daughter and her siblings.

But Lara, 40, has since addressed those rumors head-on, telling DailyMail.com exclusively at the Rescue Dogs Rock NYC Cocktails For Canines event last week that everything is all good between them.

'I think people are trying to make that a bigger deal than it really is,' she explained, while discussing Ivanka's decision to switch legal representation.

'It's not common to have to go through all this stuff that my husband and his siblings go through.

'They've had a series of different attorneys throughout this entire process and it just so happened that Ivanka felt closer to one, gravitated towards that [one].

'She [may have] said, "I'm going to have this person directly for me," but [the attorneys] all work as a team. I think that got lost in the story.'

New York Attorney General Letitia filed a suit against former President Donald Trump last month, alleging that he, his three eldest children, his real estate firm, and its top executives falsely inflated property values to obtain cheaper loans.

She is seeking $250 million  and is asking a judge to 'permanently' bar Donald and his adult children from doing business in the state. The Trumps have denied the claims.
A female NASA astronaut who spent almost six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) has revealed what it was like living 250 miles above Earth in zero gravity, with everything from bathroom habits to exercise regimes laid bare.

Kayla Barron, from Richland, Washington, was a member of the Expedition 66 crew from November 10, 2021 to May 6, 2022, and as part of her mission she conducted various scientific experiments to help identify new materials that could be used for designing future spacecraft.

During her stint in space, Kayla, 35, shared images and videos to social media, and in a recent Reddit thread she gave further insights about what went on behind the scenes at the ISS.

Asked by one inquisitive eight-year-old how she went to the bathroom, Kayla revealed: 'We have space toilets with fans that create suction to pull waste away from our bodies. We pee into a hose with a funnel on the end, and poop into a bag inside a canister. It takes some getting used to but works pretty well!'

Kayla Barron, from Richland, Washington, was a part of the Expedition 66 crew from November 10, 2021 to May 6, 2022

On her Instagram page, where the 35-year-old uses the handle @astro_kayla, Kayla posted a video to demonstrate how she worked out in space

In another clip, Kayla shows viewers how she washes her hair in space. The astronaut uses a bag with a straw attached to squirt the water directly on to her scalp

On the subject of sleeping, Kayla explains that as the ISS orbits the planet every 90 minutes, the crews experience 16 sunrises and sunsets every day, and 'spend about half our time in the sun and half our time in shadow.'

However, because humans follow a cycle of about 24 hours - also known as a circadian rhythm - that's how astronauts structure their days in space.

Kayla and her crewmates worked on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and usually slept from about 10pm to 6am.

Mealtimes also followed a similar structure to on Earth and the freeze-dried meals she had were much better than she envisaged.

Some of her favorite culinary creations included vegetable quiche, pasta with shrimp, and 'perhaps the most coveted... the Japanese Space Agency's canned teriyaki chicken! Highly recommend.'

On her Instagram page, where she uses the handle @astro_kayla, Kayla posted a video to demonstrate how she worked out in space.

In the clip, she can be seen using various pieces of equipment including a running machine and some bicycle pedals which she operates while standing up and pulling herself down to prevent herself from floating away.

She explains in the accompanying caption that astronauts on the ISS work out everyday to 'stay fit and to prevent muscle atrophy and bone density loss.'

For her, exercising also provided a 'huge psychological benefit' as she could get some time to herself.

In terms of her career trajectory, the Washington native graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a bachelors degree in systems engineering

Because humans follow a cycle of about 24 hours - also known as a circadian rhythm - Kayla says that's how astronauts structure their days in space

Offering her advice to other wannabe astronauts, Kayla says: 'When you dream big, it's easy to talk yourself out of risking failure, but failures are often our best opportunities to grow'

'I would feel pretty cooped up without [the gym],' she said.

The 'amazing equipment' aside, one of the other highlights of the onboard gym, Kayla said, were the views thanks to a large observatory module.

She wrote in the overlaid caption: 'People will typically come up here and take pictures... as far as I know, it's got the best view of any gym in the world or off the planet.'

In another clip, Kayla shows viewers how she washes her hair in space.

As water behaves differently in zero gravity with it floating instead of splashing, the astronaut shows how she has to use a bag with a straw attached to squirt the water directly on to her scalp.

This way, the water absorbs into her hair instead of escaping.

She then has to work her fingers into her hair to ensure all of her tresses are wet.

Once that is done, she uses a 'shampoo bar' before rinsing it three to four times to check all of the suds are out.

In the video, her hair can be seen standing on end once she has finished washing it.

On the science side of things, one Redditor asked Kayla about the most interesting experiment she conducted in space, to which she replied: 'I loved all of our plant experiments, especially the ones that allowed us to care for, grow, and even eat edible crops.

Following her appointment with the Navy, Kayla was selected by NASA to join the 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class and reported for duty that August

During her stint in space, Kayla shared images and videos to social media in a bid to inspire a future generation of astronauts

'We got to harvest some hatch chilis and had an extra-spicy taco night to celebrate,' Kayla revealed when quizzed about her favorite science experiments

'We got to harvest some hatch chilis and had an extra-spicy taco night to celebrate. I also really enjoyed tech demos that could improve our exploration capabilities in the future.

'For example, we installed and operated for the first time in space a miniature scanning electron microscope that could be an awesome tool in planetary exploration for identifying the most interesting samples to return to Earth for further study.'

Looking ahead, Kayla says she plans to stay at NASA for a 'very long time!'

In terms of her career trajectory, the Washington native graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a bachelors degree in systems engineering.

Then as a Gates Cambridge Scholar, Kayla earned a masters degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Cambridge before becoming a Submarine Warfare Officer.

She was among the first class of women commissioned into the submarine community and she worked on a Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine homeported in Bangor, Washington.

Following her appointment with the Navy, Kayla was selected by NASA to join the 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class and reported for duty that August following an initial training process.

Offering her advice to other wannabe astronauts, Kayla concludes: 'Never close a door on yourself! When you dream big, it's easy to talk yourself out of risking failure, but failures are often our best opportunities to learn and grow, and if you don't take risks, you'll never achieve your goals.

'Share your dreams with people you trust, take chances, and don't assume that because things are hard it means you're not good at them.

'When I joined the Navy, I'd never dreamed that I'd someday be an astronaut. I knew that I wanted to serve, and dedicate my life to something bigger than myself. It wasn't until after serving on a submarine that it even occurred to me that I might have the potential to become an astronaut.'
A chef has gone viral after revealing how to make a 'Michelin-level' fish dish for under $10 on TikTok.

Danny Kim, a 27-year-old content creator from Maryland, US, challenged LA chef Kevin Lee, who describes himself as an 'ex Michelin cook,' to create a gourmet meal out of a $10 bill.

At a Korean market, Kevin purchased ingredients including a lemon ($0.49), chives ($0.69), a large cucumber ($2.49), perilla leaves ($0.79) and rainbow trout ($4.99)  coming to a total of $9.45.

Incredibly, he manages to transform the basic ingredients, plus a few kitchen staples into a delicious trout tartare  sharing the process in a TikTok, posted on Danny's account, which has so far garnered 3.8 million views and 451,000 likes.

Kevin Lee is challenged to create a gourmet meal out of a $10 bill by content creator Danny Kim

Incredibly, he manages to transform the basic ingredients, plus a few kitchen staples into a delicious trout tartare

At a Korean market, Kevin purchases ingredients including a lemon ($0.49), chives ($0.69), a large cucumber ($2.49), perilla leaves ($0.79) and rainbow trout ($4.99)  a total of $9.45

Kevin starts by filleting the fish and using salt, sugar and lemon to brine it in.

He then uses the leaves and blends them with sesame oil before moving on to a sauce.

The chef chops up the cucumber and lemon to make a vinaigrette.

In a frying pan, he adds black pepper, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, cucumber juice, sugar and white wine vinegar, adding a sprig of thyme and combining the mixture with the vinaigrette.

Separately, he creates a mixture of egg yolks, soy sauce and liquid koji.

Kevin then chops the chives and moves on to the 'star of the show'  the fish.

He chops it up and adds some cucumbers, chives, olive oil and lemon juice.

The chef assembles the tartar in a bowl and tops it with the cucumber vinaigrette, the egg yolk mixture, and a cheeky bonus ingredient of smoked trout roe.

He also coats some crispy nori paper with sesame oil and chops it up for a garnish.

The chef and Danny go to his favorite Korean supermarket, H Mart, to buy ingredients at a great price

The Korean chives came in at a bargain $0.69, with people shocked at the H Mart prices

Some commentators were shocked at the frugal prices that the pair found, writing: 'a 5 dollar TROUT???'

Mission accomplished: The ingredients for the meal fall right under the $10 target

Kevin says: 'There you have it, I turned $10 into a trout tartar with cucumber vinaigrette and some other accoutrements on there.'

The chef and Danny sample the dish, and seem thrilled with the results.

TikTok users were equally impressed.

One person said: 'Woww (sic) the best dish for 10 bucks.'

'A 5 dollar TROUT???' another user said.

Someone else commented: 'Dude try giving a try at MasterChef you will win for sure.'

The Los Angeles chef blends up a cucumber vinaigrette during the video

He slices up the fresh rainbow trout from H Mart that he bought for under $5

The chef puts together a salt, sugar and lemon-skin mix to flavor the fish

The delicious finished product that ex-Michelin chef Kevin approves of

But not everyone was so taken by the dish.

One user joked: 'I'd rather have Big Mac.'

'Nah I will just eat two full fish,' another critic commented.

Someone else insisted: 'The egg roe is cheating.'

This TikTok video follows a father-of-two who also became viral sensation for creating seven lunchbox sandwiches and snacks with just $10.

Shawn Willis-Croft, who is based in New Zealand, has his children Levi, eight, and Elijah, six, on two school nights each week and likes to make them nutritious lunchboxes on a budget.

In his most popular video on TikTok, which saw him gain more than 12,000 followers in two weeks, Shawn purchases $9.87 worth of groceries to feed his two sons and himself for two days' worth of lunches.
Queen Maxima stunned as she welcomed Kenya's president William Ruto and the First Lady Rachel Ruto to Noordeinde Palace in The Hague today.

Maxima, 51, looked elegant as she greeted the Kenyan officials at the palace alongside her husband, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, 56.

The Queen donned a floral patterned mustard maxi dress with an asymmetrical hem and puffy sleeves.

The dress - which ties at the waist - was decorated with brown patterns and she accessorised her look with mocha coloured beaded earrings.

She sported some stylish brown leather heeled boots to complete her outfit.

The Queen donned a floral patterned mustard maxi dress with an asymmetrical hem and puffy sleeves

Maxima, 51, looked elegant as she greeted the Kenyan officials at the palace alongside her husband, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, 56

The King looked smart in a navy suit with a handkerchief in his blazer pocket, along with a yellow tie - matching with his wife.

President Ruto and his wife also donned similar colours, as she wore a white dress with blue and purple patterns and he sported a lavender tie.

The couple sat down with the president and first lady for a meeting in the palace, as pictures show them in conversation.

It's been a busy week for the Dutch royals as they also attended the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey over the weekend.

It was a historic and also significant event as it was the first Coronation in 70 years.

King Willem-Alexander is distantly related to King Charles - he was the Queen's fifth cousin once removed thanks to an ancient connection in their family tree.

Willem-Alexander is a descendant of Princess Carolina of Orange-Nassau, who was the daughter of William IV, Prince of Orange, and his wife Anne, the eldest daughter of King George II of Great Britain and his consort Caroline of Ansbach.

The pair looked regal as they arrived at the Abbey, with Maxima wearing a stunning white dress which she paired with matching gloves and a large hat.

The top half of the dress was sheer mesh with a floral pattern and it tied at the waist.

The couple sat down with the president and first lady for a meeting in the palace, as pictures show them in conversation

The King looked smart in a navy suit with a handkerchief in his blazer pocket, along with a yellow tie - matching with his wife

Queen Maxima smiled as she spoke to the First Lady of Kenya, Rachel Ruto

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands looked stunning in a white dress as she attended the Coronation of King Charles alongside her husband King Willem-Alexander in London

She paired the look with nude coloured heels and a cream clutch bag.

The King looked dapper a black blazer with pinstriped trousers, polished shoes and a grey waistcoat and tie.

In 2018, the royal couple last visited the UK in 2018 - when Maxima greeted the late Queen with a friendly peck on the cheek.

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh also paid a state visit to Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands in March 1958.
The Princess of Wales has revealed an affectionate nickname for her youngest son as she and her husband got their children to roll their sleeves up for The Big Help Out today.

Five-year-old Prince Louis was out for his first public engagement today as he joined the family to renovate a building in Slough.

And as he put his best foot forward to help out with the arduous tasks at hand, Kate, 41, praised her 'poppet's' hard work.

Elsewhere, she was heard lovingly calling her little one 'Lou bug'.

The royals' decision to bring their young family was kept secret until they arrived in order minimise any fuss for the youngsters who are being slowly introduced to the idea of public engagements.

Five-year-old Prince Louis was out for his first public engagement today as he joined the family to renovate a building in Slough

The family were also insistent that the children get 'properly stuck in' and lend a hand - which they certainly did.

The children set to work straight away with Charlotte and Louis helping to paint a planter and George joining his father with some drilling.

The eldest continued drilling, clearly loving the task in hand, while the Princess of Wales then took her two youngest children off to try their hands at another activity.

Louis was given a wheelbarrow to fill with sand and took to the task with huge enthusiasm.

He tried to push a heavy wheelbarrow full of sand which proved a bit too heavy for him, trotted off to get an empty one, picked up a shovel and filled it.

'Ouffff!' He shouted as he dig away without any help,.

'Good job Lou,' encouraged the princess.

His mother came up to him and asked: 'Do you want to put in a bit more? Do you want a hand? Good job.'

As he put his best foot forward to help out with the arduous tasks at hand, Kate, 41, praised her 'poppet's' hard work

Louis was given a wheelbarrow to fill with sand and took to the task with huge enthusiasm today

The Princess of Wales has revealed an affectionate nickname for her youngest son as she and her husband got their children to roll their sleeves up for The Big Help Out today

The family were also insistent that the children get 'properly stuck in' and lend a hand - which they certainly did

Determined Louis refused all offers of help, however, and pushed the heavy wheelbarrow himself around the Scout hut, to where other volunteers were helping build a path.

'Well done, good job, Lou-bug,' Kate said.

He loved the task so much that he carried on shuttling back and forwards with his wheelbarrow without either of his parents around.

Kate repeated the affectionate nickname when the family gathered around to toast some marshmallows for S'mores, while helping little Louis place his sweet treat on a stick.

'Pop that in the fire, Lou-bug' she said, giving her youngest an empty skewer to dispose of.

Inside the scout hut the family added their handprints to a tree on the wall made up of all those who have contributed to the volunteer effort.

'Hey poppet,' Kate told Louis as her younger child delightedly grabbed a brush. She encouraged him to paint her hand first, liberally covering it with yellow paint.

He then led his mother by the hand and encouraged him to place her hand on the wall. 'Ready, steady, go. Good job!' the Princess of Wales smiled.

As the family rolled their sleeves up to renovate a building in Slough, fan-favourite Louis was full of energy as he bounced about while the Prince and Princess of Wales later toasted marshmallows

The little Prince absolutely devoured the sweet treat and was also seen chomping down on a S'more

Inside the scout hut the family added their handprints to a tree on the wall made up of all those who have contributed to the volunteer effort

Prince William appeared to be making the leafs of a tree with green paint handprints on a white wall in the scouts hut

Royal reporter Rebecca English shared snaps of the royal's handprints on the wall which were labelled with their names

Louis and William were helping create a new path and new beds for a Slough scout hut

But that clearly wasn't going to be enough for Louis and, as his mother washed her hands, he went off to get some paint for himself.

He first chose some yellow paint and started putting it on his hands with the princess's encouragement before make his own handprint. 'Good job,' Kate encouraged.

Louis then decided to have a go again, looking carefully to make sure every spot of skin was covered, before find another spot on the mural to place his hand.

'Do you want to put it next to me?' asked Kate.

Louis washed his hands carefully - but then decided that simply wasn't enough. He covered his mother's, and then his own hand, with blue paint. 'One more!' he urged her.

Prince Louis and his family enjoyed chomping down on some marshmallows at the fire this afternoon

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area. The Wales family pictured enjoying the marshmallows

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers in resetting a path among other tasks

They were then joined by Charlotte who wanted to make her own.

Louis proudly pointed out his handprints. 'Look! There, there, there and there!'

The couple and their three children were out and about again to mark the third day of the King's Coronation, and Charles III's life of service.

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers in resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Out's work.

William and Kate,who were casually dressed, wore scarfs from the 3rd Upton Scout Group as they mingled with scouts and leaders taking part in The Big Help event  one of thousands across the country to mark the end of the coronation.

Mr Madigan said the Big Help Out event was to make improvements to the scout hut, including building a ramp at the rear of the scout hut to make it more accessible.

Prince Louis takes control of a wheelbarrow as he helps his mother, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales take part in the Big Help Out in Slough. Louis also helped fill the barrow

Charlotte and George watched on as their little brother and their father went digging, with George appearing to bite his nails

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB on his father's lap.

As the Princess of Wales left she stopped to talk to local resident Donna Robinson who was standing by a barricade with her seven year old daughter Ciara.

The Princess, casually dressed in a blue top and dark coloured trousers, held on to Louis's hand as she stopped to say hello and asked Donna how old her daughter was.

Donna said: 'She asked what year Ciara was and was lovely.'

Other senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, are also getting involved in volunteering today.

Princess Anne and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Lawrence, are at a civic service recognising local volunteers at Gloucester Cathedral, which will be followed by a special reception for invited volunteers and charity representatives from across Gloucestershire.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as a patron of Guide Dogs, is attending a puppy training class at the Guide Dogs Training Centre in Reading with her husband, Prince Edward.

There are over 8million opportunities to get involved today, with more than 52,000 events happening across the nation.

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area, including the local mosque, a senior citizens contact group for members of the Asian community and the Scout group themselves.

The building is also used by 'Slough All Nations,' a group with heritage spanning across St. Kitts & Nevis, and which provides recreation and leisure activities to improve health and wellbeing and promote community cohesion.

Among other planned events, the Royal Parks is holding a drop-in session in Green Park in central London, close to Buckingham Palace, where volunteers can plant wild flowers in the same spot where the public laid floral tributes to the late Queen.

The Duke of Gloucester, the late Queen's first cousin, and his wife Birgitte are meeting young volunteers at a Coronation party at St Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church in Kensington, west London.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is helping out at a lunch club, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer will hit the phones with the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford is volunteering at a local charity shop, and Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf is volunteering at a local community larder.

Mr Sunak said: 'The Big Help Out is not only a chance for everyone to come together to mark His Majesty's Coronation, it's also a reminder of how each and every one of us can help make a change for the better.

'It is this community spirit that binds us and makes us stronger as a country, and I hope that as part of the legacy of this historic moment of national unity, people will be inspired for years to volunteer, to help out and to make a difference to others around them.'
Princess Charlotte was dressed in a practical yet pretty outfit this afternoon

Kate Middleton is famous for mixing high-end designers with high street bargains - and this afternoon, the mother-of-three opted for this winning formula with Princess Charlotte's outfit.

The Prince, 40, and Princess of Wales, 41, delighted volunteers this morning when they arrived at a local Scouts headquarters in Slough with their three children Prince George, nine, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five.

Following on from the Coronation concert last night, the family spent hours renovating some Scouts huts for local members to use.

For the occasion, Kate dressed her second child in a practical and pretty pink ensemble.

As she got stuck into some painting and archery, Princess Charlotte was pictured in a bright pink cable knit by US fashion house Ralph Lauren.

Princess Charlotte, eight, donned a 299 bright pink cashmere jumper from Ralph Lauren for today's engagement

The 299 slim-fitting knit is made of 100 per cent Italian cashmere and has a ribbed hem and cuffs.

Along with her designer jumper, Kate dressed Charlotte in a 15 polo by high street giant Next.

The perfectly matched light pink top had a pretty ruffled trim to the collar which poked out over the top of the crew-neck cut of Charlotte's knit.

For the family day of activities, Kate also picked out some light blue denim shorts with a raw edge for her daughter to wear.

What's more, the Princess of Wales also turned to Next for Princess Charlotte's footwear.

The royal's 15 trainers have a strip of glitter by the heel and also featured a metallic star which perfectly matched the hue of Charlotte's jumper.

Kate also ensured Charlotte's hair was out of her face by putting it in a half-up, down-down style with two plaits.

Last year, the Princess of Wales dressed her daughter in an almost identical outfit for her seventh birthday portrait.

Kate Middleton dressed her daughter in a designer knit, 15 polo top, denim shorts and some 20 trainers

Princess Charlotte sported a 15 pink polo top from Next (pictured left) and a 299 Ralph Lauren cashmere jumper

Left: Princess Charlotte's 299 Ralph Lauren jumper, which she also owns in blue. Right: Charlotte's 20 Next trainers

Last year, the Princess of Wales dressed her daughter in an almost identical outfit for her seventh birthday portrait

For that photoshoot, Princess Charlotte wore the light blue version of this 299 Ralph Lauren jumper with a white-and-black polka dot polo top from Next.

After helping the team renovate their hut, Charlotte and her brothers were also given a yellow-and-purple Scouts necktie to wear.

Prince George wore a practical navy puffa jacket with khaki trousers while Prince Louis was adorable in a blue polo and navy shorts.

What's more, Kate was seen pushing a wheelbarrow while her youngest son shoveled in sand as they helped spruce up a Slough scout hut.

He then took control, steering it expertly as his mum supported its weight.

Charlotte was seen delightedly running to help prepare a new path while George, a future king himself, was spotted learning how to use a power drill.

The couple and their three children were out and about again to mark the third day of the Kings Coronation, and Charles III's life of service.

Princess Charlotte and Prince George watched on as their little brother and their father went digging

Prince George also got stuck into the work and was pictured using a power drill as they renovated an old Scouts hut

The Princess of Wales was seen speaking to a person in the crowd and said Charlotte was in year three at school

The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020 and the royals joined volunteers resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Outs work.

William and Kate attended in support of the Big Help Out along with other senior royals including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Princess Royal and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

The Big Help Out scheme, which aims to inspire a new generation of volunteers by giving people a taster of what they can achieve, has been backed by celebrities across the country.

The scheme, which aims to inspire a new generation of volunteers by giving people a taster of what they can achieve, has been backed by celebrities across the country.

More than 1,500 charities have signed up. The Big Help Out has been organised by The Together Coalition and leading charities.
Kate Middleton put her best foot forward in a chic blue blouse in Slough today

Princess Kate looked incredible in a casual ensemble as she and the other Waleses enjoyed a day of volunteering for The Big Help Out.

Kate looked ready to get stuck into the action in her baby blue Liberty Frill Neck Silk Shirt from Really Wild Clothing, costing 129, which she paired with a practical yet chic pair of raven G-Shape Cargo skinny jeans from G-Star Raw.

She previously wore the same style of jeans on a trip to Belize in 2022, and frequently opts for the casual trousers for more low key royal engagements.

She accessorised her outfit with a classic pair of brown 550 Chelsea boots from Blundstone and gold 'Mini Cupid' arrow-shaped earrings from Daniella Draper - a firm favourite of the Princess.

The mother-of-three kept her long brown locks down naturally as she put her best foot forward to help out with the tasks at hand.

Princess Kate looked ready to get stuck into the action in her baby blue Liberty Frill Neck Silk Shirt from Really Wild Clothing

While Kate is known for her gorgeous looks when attending lavish occasions, today is just one prime example of how the Princess still looks amazing when dressed casually.

She accessorised her outfit with a classic pair of brown 550 Chelsea boots from Blundstone

She donned the same pair of jeans in a khaki shade during her visit to the Maya ruins of Caracol back in March 2022

The Prince, 40, and Princess of Wales, 41, delighted volunteers this morning when they arrived at a local Scouts headquarters in Slough with their three children Prince George, nine, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five.

Following on from the Coronation concert last night, the family spent hours renovating some Scouts huts for local members to use.

The Wales family were volunteering at the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough, Berkshire, as part of a nationwide day of volunteering to celebrate King Charles and Queen Camillas crowning.

Their decision to bring their young family was kept secret until they arrived in order to minimise any fuss for the youngsters who are being slowly introduced to the idea of public engagements.

The family were also insistent that the children get properly stuck in and lend a hand - which they certainly did,

The Prince and Princess and their children joined volunteers in renovating the Scout Hut, with works including resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and varnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Outs work.

The children set to work straight away with Charlotte and Louis helping to paint a planter and George joining his father with some drilling.

The two youngest children knelt down, grabbing brushes dripping with white masonry paint, obvious to the fact that they were getting it on their hair and bare legs.

Following on from the Coronation concert last night, the family spent hours renovating some Scouts huts for local members to use

The family were insistent that the children get 'properly stuck in' and lend a hand - which they certainly did

The children worked away uncomplainingly while the Princess of Wales hovered over them, letting them do their worst. Well done Louis! She said.

When Kate tried to interject and advise Charlotte on what to do, her daughter said firmly but politely: I dont like this.

Charlotte told her brother: Youve got paint in your hair! Louis, look at me! Look at me! 

Yes Louis, look at Charlotte, the adult volunteer said.

Louis seemed supremely unbothered.

Youve got to wipe it, Charlotte gently admonished him.

Its all going much quicker with you two helping out, the lady assisting them assured the children.

Careful! Charlotte told Louis again as he got over-excited with his brush.

Kate joined volunteers to help renovate and improve the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough

Five-year-old Prince Louis was out for his first public engagement today as he joined the family to renovate a building in Slough

Prince Louis and his family enjoyed chomping down on some marshmallows at the fire this afternoon

Meanwhile, William and George both wielded drills on a wooden planter.

So far its still holding together, joked the heir to the throne.

George, dressed in chinos, trainers and a puffer coat, was the picture of concentration as he placed a screw carefully into a hole and drilled it in.

Kate wandered over to her eldest son and asked him: Have you ever used a drill before? Its quite satisfying. How are you getting on George?

George pointed out to his mother what he was doing.

The family then walked off, Kate holding Louis hand, to try their hand at another task.

Charlotte rubbed at her legs to get the paint off.

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area, including the local mosque, a senior citizens contact group for members of the Asian community and the Scout group themselves.

In true Kate and WIlls fashion, the royal couple got stuck in and even played a round of archery

Like her parents, Princess Charlotte tried her hand at archery and proved to be a natural

The building is also used by Slough All Nations, a group with heritage spanning across St. Kitts & Nevis, and which provides recreation and leisure activities to improve health and well-being and promote community cohesion. The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020.

The Big Help Out has been created by some of Britains best-known charities from the Scouts to the Royal Voluntary Service, Rotary to the National Trust.

In tribute to His Majesty The King's public service, The Big Help Out will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas.

The aim is to use volunteering to bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend.
The Coronation saw a selection of stunning ensembles from members of the Royal Family and other VIPs - including ornate homages to the opulence and pageantry of the day.

But many will have noticed that a number of the Firm's ladies opted for ivory and white hues, most notably Queen Camilla and her companions, who made for an ethereal and angelic entrance to the crowning ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

A new portrait released today shows King Charles III and the Queen pictured with members of the working royal family - and barring Princess Anne, who opted to don her military uniform, all the women are sporting pearly white gowns for the photograph.

But is there a reason that the shade - which was also donned by the late Queen Elizabeth II for her own coronation 70 years ago - is so beloved by monarchs?

Queen Victoria was a big fan of the colour, wearing a white dress adorned with a golden cloak for her own ceremony in 1838, and even becoming a key figure in popularising white wedding dresses as she wore the shade to her own wedding.

A new portrait released today shows King Charles III and the Queen pictured with members of the working royal family

Here, FEMAIL takes a look at why white is such a key hue during the festivities, and the symbolism it carries.

WHY IS WHITE SO BELOVED BY THE WOMEN IN BRITISH ARISTOCRACY?

The colour white carries connotations of 'purity and divinity', which hence made it favourable to royals who would have evident links to Christianity and God.

Speaking to HELLO!, fashion stylist Miranda Holder explained that this is 'classic colour psychology'.

'The Queen and her maids of honour would wear white 'court dresses' to symbolise the purity and divinity of the Monarch - who was, after all, believed to be appointed by God,' she explained.

However the fashion expert added that it's unlikely that guests were this year told to avoid wearing white.

She also told the outlet: 'We know from various leaks in the build-up to the big day that the invitations specified day dress or national dress, with no reference to specific colours.'

WHICH ROYALS AND SOCIALITES WORE WHITE TO KING CHARLES III'S CORONATION?

The royal, 75, was joined by two elegant companions as she walked alongside her sister Annabel Elliot and close friend The Marchioness of Lansdowne

Queen Camilla looked elegant in her Bruce Oldfield couture gown as she was presented with a ring which 'married' her as consort to King Charles on Saturday's Coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

The royal, 75, was joined by two elegant companions as she walked alongside her sister Annabel Elliot and close friend The Marchioness of Lansdowne.

She had axed the centuries-old tradition of having ladies-in-waiting as part of her retinue last September - instead opting for a smaller number of 'Queen's companions'.

It's evident that both have an eye for fashion and aesthetics - having worked in interior design - as the two women struck the perfect chord between sophistication and glamour with their gowns.

Fiona Clare created two long, ivory dresses for Her Majesty's Companions, designed to complement each other whilst retaining individual touches in terms of the embroidery and choice of fabric.

Silver edging features on The Marchioness's, whilst Annabel's has a standing collar and hand-embroidered detail.

Meanwhile the Princess of Wales looked radiant in a dazzling ivory Alexander McQueen dress as she attended the King's Coronation alongside Prince William.

As she arrived in London, Kate Middleton, 41, was elegant in the stunning silk crepe gown, which featured silver bullion and thread work embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs to represent each of the four nations.

Queen Camilla looked elegant in her Bruce Oldfield couture gown as she was presented with a ring which 'married' her as consort to King Charles on Saturday's Coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey

The Coronation saw a selection of stunning ensembles from members of the Royal Family and other VIPs - including ornate homages to the opulence and pageantry of the day

Instead of a tiara, the royal mother-of-three wore a matching Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen Headpiece with silver bullion, crystal and silver thread work three-dimensional leaf embroidery.

The Princess has long chosen to wear Alexander McQueen for significant moments in her life.

And in a touching nod to her late mother-in-law, the Princess wore a set of Diana's pearl and diamond earrings for the occasion.

Elsewhere her daughter Princess Charlotte adorably matched her mother in an all-white ensemble.

The young princess, who turned eight this week, wore an Alexander McQueen dress and cape in ivory silk crepe with ivory stitch embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs, to signify the four nations.

The Princess of Wales and her daughter Princess Charlotte looked incredible in matching Alexander McQueen coronation dresses at Westminster Abbey

The young princess, who turned eight last week, wore an Alexander McQueen dress and cape in ivory silk crepe with ivory stitch embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs, to signify the four nations

While her mother Kate also looked elegant in a similar stunning ivory silk crepe gown, which featured silver bullion and thread work embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs also to represent each of the four nations

The Duchess of Edinburgh looked elegant as she joined her husband the Duke of Edinburgh and their children Lady Louise and James, Viscount Severn for the King's Coronation

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh also looked stunning in a regal white Suzannah couture floor-length embroidered gown with a Jane Taylor headpiece and Royal Victorian Order Mantle

The Duke of Gloucester, 78, the late Queen's cousin, and his wife of over 50 years, the Duchess of Gloucester, 76

From left, Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy, Duke of Kent and Duchess of Gloucester stand on the balcony of the Buckingham Palace on May 6

Instead of a tiara, the mother and daughter duo wore matching Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen Headpiece with silver bullion, crystal and silver thread work three-dimensional leaf embroidery.

While the pair completed their ensembles with white shoes and swept their locks back into a chic updo for the historical occasion.

Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh also looked stunning in a regal white Suzannah couture floor-length embroidered gown with a Jane Taylor headpiece and Royal Victorian Order Mantle.

The Duchess of Gloucester and Princess Alexandra were both also present - and attended in similarly gorgeous white dresses.

WHAT OTHER SYMBOLISM DID THE CORONATION ENSEMBLES HAVE?

One particularly sweet detail in the ceremony were the incredible tributes on the trail of Queen Camilla's Coronation robe

One particularly sweet detail in the ceremony were the incredible tributes on the trail of Queen Camilla's Coronation robe.

After the crowning and anointing, Camilla and the King emerged in their spectacular Robes of State.

Camilla's robe boasts hand embroidery using gold thread and depict meaningful symbols of nature, notably specific insets and flowers which hold special meaning for the couple and the wider Royal Family as a whole.

Among the flowers embroidered onto the garment are lily of the valley - which was Queen Elizabeth's favourite bloom, lady's mantle, myrtle, maidenhair fern, cornflowers, delphiniums and national emblems - the rose, thistle and shamrock.

Camilla's new robe, expertly decorated by the Royal School of Needlework (of which Camilla is patron), has also been adorned with bees and beetles to reflect the Royal couple's affection for the natural world.

Fittingly, an earlier insight into Charles' vision of his Coronation - the event invitation - also boasted similar imagery, with depictions of flowers and insects.

This natural theme nods to his love of nature, sustainability and climate conservation, as a monarch who has always held preservation of the environment close to his heart.

As a champion of sustainable fashion, Charles donned the same Robe of State worn by his grandfather King George VI for his Coronation in 1937, which boasts a 15ft train.

And his wife too recycled an old garment, sporting a robe first made for Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and resized for the ceremony.

The velvet on both robes has been restored by the Royal School of Needlework and the lining and gold lace by Ede & Ravenscroft.

WHICH OTHER ROYALS IN HISTORY WORE WHITE?

The late Queen Elizabeth II was adamant her historic 1953 coronation dress - also white in colour - should represent countries from around the world over which she reigned

The richly embroidered satin dress, created by British couturier Sir Norman Hartnell, is regarded as one of the most important examples of 20th century design

The late Queen Elizabeth II was adamant her historic 1953 coronation dress - also white in colour - should represent countries from around the world over which she reigned.

The richly embroidered satin dress, created by British couturier Sir Norman Hartnell, is regarded as one of the most important examples of 20th century design.

It features a lattice-work effect with an iconographic scheme of floral emblems in gold and silver thread and pastel-coloured silks.

The embroideries are arranged in three scalloped, graduated tiers bordered with alternating lines of gold bugle beads, diamantes and pearls.

Queen Victoria's coronation dress was, in contrast, relatively simple - and is more widely remembered for its accessories

Sir Norman said the Queen made clear she was unwilling to wear a gown bearing the emblems of all four British nations without those of the dominions where she was also monarch.

Queen Victoria's coronation dress was, in contrast, relatively simple - and is more widely remembered for its accessories.

According to Royal Central, her 'fashion that day is mostly remembered for the brilliant bits of splendour including crown and jewellery and a brilliant golden cloak: the dalmatica'.

However, the monarch was still a fan of neutral tones, as after her proclamation as queen she had changed from the white-and-golden gown into a 'simple white satin dress'.
Hyundai LNG Shipping's gas carrier, HLS Diamond / Courtesy of Hyundai LNG shipping



By Park Jae-hyuk



Korea's shipping industry officials urged the government on Monday to prohibit IMM Private Equity from selling Hyundai LNG Shipping to a foreign company, citing a potential threat to the nation's energy security.



They made the request as the private equity firm (PEF) is said to be considering selling the shipping company to one of the potential buyers from the U.S., the U.K. and Denmark.



"Important energy resources should be shipped by vessels owned by Korean shipping companies, in order to enable stable supply amid the rapid-changing international situation," the Federation of Korea Maritime Industries said in a statement. "However, the PEF is going in the wrong direction by trying to sell Hyundai LNG Shipping to a foreign buyer."



The federation also raised concerns over the possibility of Korea's know-how of shipping liquefied natural gas (LNG) being leaked, as well as the outflow of a massive amount of national wealth, given that Hyundai LNG Shipping has shipped for the state-run Korea Gas Corp. (KOGAS).



"This will affect the ongoing sales procedures of SK Shipping and Polaris Shipping, both of which ship strategic commodities," the federation said.



IMM said it has yet to receive a call or a letter from the federation.



"We are open to selling Hyundai LNG Shipping to a Korean company, if the buyer offers us a reasonable price," an IMM executive said.



Last month, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries hinted that it may put a brake on IMM's sale of Hyundai LNG Shipping to a foreign firm.



"Considering the stable supply of LNG and possible leakage of the shipping company's know-how, the government is keeping a close watch on the sale procedure," the ministry said. "If necessary, we will review possible ripple effects, along with KOGAS and other relevant institutions."



Hyundai LNG Shipping was formerly a business division of HMM, but it was sold to IMM during HMM's liquidity crisis in 2014.



HMM, which is currently under supervision of the Korea Development Bank and the Korea Ocean Business Corp., reportedly failed in its attempt to acquire Hyundai LNG Shipping late last year, as it could not reach an agreement with the seller.


The first official portraits from King Charles and Queen Camilla's Coronation were unveiled last night, giving a glimpse at the new 'slimmed down' monarchy.

In the photographs senior royals including Princess Anne, Prince Edward and the heir to the throne Prince William surrounded the newly crowned King and Queen, as Charles expressed his utmost gratitude for the public's support throughout the historic weekend.

The King was captured in his full regalia, wearing the Imperial State Crown, holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross.

But there were several hidden details eagle-eyed royal fans were quick to notice, particularly concerning the Princess of Wales' outfit as she stood alongside her husband and father-in-law.

In a touching tribute to Queen Elizabeth, Kate, 41, added one of the late monarch's necklaces to compliment her stunning ivory silk crepe dress, made by her favourite designer Alexander McQueen.

For the official Coronation photographs, the Princess of Wales paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth by wearing one of the late monarch's necklaces. Pictured: The Princess of Wales wearing Queen Elizabeth's George VI Festoon Necklace

Eagle-eyed royal fans noticed that while Kate, 41, sported a scoop-necked piece for the Westminster Abbey festivities over the weekend, newly-released photographs taken on the same day show the King's daughter-in-law in a more V-necked design (left, on Saturday, and right, in the portraits)

The Princess of Wales wore Queen Elizabeth's George VI Festoon Necklace, which had belonged to the late Queen and was one of the monarchs favourites in her lifetime.

It was made from 105 loose diamonds that were kept in reserve at Garrard, stored in pouches marked C for Crown, in case a monarch wanted to extend a necklace or improve a tiara.

Queen Mary, the Queens grandmother, was said to have made regular use of the service.

The resulting triple strand necklace has rows of graduated stones, suspended between two diamond triangles.

It was also the Queens preferred necklace for wearing without a tiara.

During the Coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday morning, many expected Kate to be wearing the necklace but it appeared to be missing on the day.

No reason as to why the jewellery was missing throughout the service was given, however, it may have been removed to not cause damage to her Royal Victorian Order mantle that was clasped together with a silver bullion.

It comes amid speculation that Kate also may have worn two gowns for the Coronation - as the new royal portraits show a gown with a different neckline to her stunning ivory silk crepe dress by Alexander McQueen, which she wore to the ceremony on Saturday.

Instead of a tiara, the royal mother-of-three wore a matching Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen Headpiece with silver bullion, crystal and silver thread work three-dimensional leaf embroidery

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are pictured with members of the working royal family: (left to right) the Duke of Kent, the Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Princess Royal, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales, the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra, the Hon. Lady Ogilvy, the Duke of Edinburgh

Fans of the Princess of Wales noticed how she had worn a sported a scoop-necked piece for the Westminster Abbey festivities over the weekend, newly released photographs taken on the same day show the King's daughter-in-law in a more V-necked design.

Instagram fan account @middletonmaven said that the photos show the mother-of-three 'wearing a new Alexander McQueen gown for the official photos', and other observers chipped in to voice their agreement.

'The neckline is different to the dress she was wearing under her mantle,' one agreed. 'Did she have two dresses?'

Another remarked that the neckline wasn't the only tell.

'Yes, the embroidery at the bottom of the dress is different too,' they wrote. 'Both gorgeous and the necklace completed the magnificent look.'

However, closer look at the hemline suggests that the floral designs along the skirt are strikingly similar if not identical.

The dress in the portrait also showed off gorgeous embroidery among the sleeves, harking a similar floral design.

'I wonder why she had two made,' a third asked.

However, not everyone was convinced that a second gown was a definite possibility - as one questioned whether the Princess may have been wearing a cape during the ceremony.

On Saturday, Kate was elegant in the stunning ivory silk crepe gown by Alexander McQueen, which featured silver bullion and thread work embroidery featuring rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs to represent each of the four nations.

Instead of a tiara, the royal mother-of-three wore a matching Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen Headpiece with silver bullion, crystal and silver thread work three-dimensional leaf embroidery.

And in a touching nod to her late mother-in-law, the Princess wore a set of Dianas pearl and diamond earrings for the occasion.

Meanwhile she also paid tribute to the late Queen by wearing The George VI Festoon Necklace, which was a gift from King George VI for his daughter, then Princess Elizabeth.

On Saturday, the Princess of Wales wore a gown which featured a high neckline for the Coronation service

Instagram fan account @middletonmaven said that the photos show the mother-of-three 'wearing a new Alexander McQueen gown for the official photos', and other observers chipped in to voice their agreement

The Princess has long chosen to wear Alexander McQueen for significant moments in her life.

She has worn Alexander McQueen  one of her favourite fashion brands  on numerous occasions, most notably choosing its creative director Sarah Burton to design her wedding dress.

The four flowers of the home nations - English rose, Scottish thistle, Welsh daffodil and Irish shamrock - were embroidered onto the dress.

Kate donned pearl earrings that were gifted to Diana before her wedding to Prince Charles in 1981.

The mother-of-three previously wore the jewellery, left to William and Harry, at the BAFTAs in 2019. They feature a double curve of various cuts of diamond, with a hanging pearl.

Diana wore the earrings on various occasions, including at a banquet for the Japanese Emperor Akihito in 1990 - and at a gala at the Palace of Versailles in 1994.

Meanwhile Queen Camilla also paid tribute to her loved ones - by having some secret names embroidered onto her Coronation dress, including a heartwarming homage to her rescue dogs.

The royal looked elegant in her Bruce Oldfield couture gown as she was stood alongside King Charles in the Coronation portraits.

The four flowers of the home nations - English rose, Scottish thistle, Welsh daffodil and Irish shamrock - were embroidered onto the dress

In a touching nod to her late mother-in-law, the Princess wore a set of Dianas pearl and diamond earrings for the occasion.

The late Queen's much beloved glittering Festoon necklace, gifted to the royal by her father, is pictured during an outing to a concert with President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy in America in 1983

Camilla's ivory dress which was designed by Couturier and close friend Bruce Oldfield, who also worked closely with Diana during her time as a working Royal, was made from Peau de Soie, a silk fabric.

The gown was embellished with silver embroidery which was woven by Stephen Walters in Suffolk.

With an ivory, silver and gold colour palette, bracelet length sleeves, a strong shoulder and a wide V-neck neckline, the gown was in Camillas signature silhouette, a modest neckline, and an elongated waist.

The mother-of-two accessorised the gown with matching shoes made by British designer Elliot Zed, and the same necklace that Queen Elizabeth wore to her coronation back in 1953.

Eagle-eyed royal fans noticed that Camilla had also paid a subtle tribute to her loved ones on her show-stopping gown.

Camilla's ivory dress which was designed by Couturier and close friend Bruce Oldfield, who also worked closely with Diana during her time as a working Royal, was made from Peau de Soie, a silk fabric

She had the names of her children and grandchildren discreetly embroidered near the bottom of her skirt

Meanwhile Sophie, 58, donned a regal white Suzannah couture floor-length embroidered gown with a Jane Taylor headpiece and Royal Victorian Order Mantle for the historic portrait

She had the names of her children and grandchildren discreetly embroidered near the bottom of her skirt.

Sharing close up snaps of the gown on Twitter royal expert Victoria Howard spotted that the bespoke dress appeared to reveal the names of her two children, Tom and Laura, along with those of her grandchildren, Gus, Freddy, Louis, Eliza and Lola.

People also noticed two gold terrier pups embroidered onto the gown to represent Charles and Camilla's rescue dogs Beth and Bluebell.

The royals rescued the pooches from Battersea Dogs' and Cats' Home in 2017. The two adorable dogs have even made Buckingham Palace their new home.

Meanwhile her grandsons were pages of honour during the ceremony and her granddaughter was present on the day.

The son of food writer Tom Parker Bowles, Freddy, 13, was a page of honour during the ceremony.

While Camilla's daughter Laura Lopes, children Louis Lopes, 12, and the twin brother of Gus also had a role to play and were seen on Buckingham Palace balcony after the coronation ceremony.

Meanwhile Sophie, 58, donned a regal white Suzannah couture floor-length embroidered gown with a Jane Taylor headpiece and Royal Victorian Order Mantle for the historic portrait.

The images were among the first official photographs of King Charles III taken on the day of his Coronation.

The King and Queen set the seal on their historic coronation day with a double Buckingham Palace balcony appearance to acknowledge the nation.

Charles and Camilla in lavish robes and wearing their crowns returned with a wave the cheers of the crowds, who filled The Mall after braving downpours to see a colourful ceremonial military procession not seen for 70 years.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis joined the monarch, as did the pages of honour and other royals - and then wellwishers were treated to an encore with just the King and Queen.
A TikTok star has people questioning their childhoods after demonstrating the 'correct' way to eat Airheads that supposedly enhances the candy's flavor.

Jordan Howlett, 26, from California, has 9.6 million followers on TikTok, where he is known as @jordan_the_stallion8. He went viral this week after claiming the taffy is meant to be shaken in its wrapper until it condenses into a small cube.

The influencer stitched his video in response to user @knowledgesaurus, who had asked: 'What is something you found out late in life that you should have known earlier but you just didn't?'

'I have been eating Airheads incorrectly for the past 20 years,' he said, holding up a wrapped Airheads bar. 'Airheads are like this, right? They're flat, okay, a flat surface.'

'But, apparently, you are supposed to shake the Airheads before opening them, so they end up tiny, like little cubes because it makes the flavor just a bit [different].'

TikTok star Jordan Howlett, 26, from California, went viral this week after claiming an Airheads bar is meant to be shaken in its wrapper until it condenses into a small cube

He stitched his video in response to user @knowledgesaurus, who had asked: 'What is something you found out late in life that you should have known earlier but you just didn't?'

'I have been eating Airheads incorrectly for the past 20 years,' he said, holding up a wrapped Airheads bar to show how it's flat

Howlett had one of the brand's White Mystery bars, which he heard 'changes flavors after you shake it to the bottom.'

Perfetti Van Melle  the Italian-Dutch company that makes Airheads  creates its White Mystery bars by taking whatever flavors are leftover and mixing them together, according to Mashed.

He held onto the top of the wrapper with his fingers and began vigorously shaking the Airheads bar up and down.

After a minute, he held it up to the camera to show that it was beginning to shrink. He kept going until the taffy was condensed into the bottom quarter of the wrapper.

He held up the final product next to another Airheads bar to show the difference in size before opening the wrapper.

'As you can see, it's like a little tiny cube,' he said, taking a bite. 'The flavor tastes different.'

However, the content creator's experiment was somewhat flawed because he didn't take into account the inconsistency of the ever-changing White Mystery flavor.

Without knowing what flavors were mixed together to make that particular batch, he wouldn't actually be able to tell if the taffy tasted differently after being shaken into a cube.

Howlett would have been better off using a standard flavor, but that hasn't stopped the video from going viral.

Howlett shook the Airheads bar in its wrapper until it was fully compressed, which took a few minutes

He held up the final product next to another Airheads bar to show the difference in size before opening the wrapper

'As you can see, it's like a little tiny cube,' he said, taking a bite. 'The flavor tastes different'

The viral video has been viewed 9.1 million times and has received more than 12,500 comments, but it's unclear if Airheads were actually designed to be eaten this way

The nearly one-minute clip has been viewed 9.1 million times and has received more than 12,500 comments in just one day.

'Airheads needs this tutorial on the bag! Why would they make it like this and not tell anyone?!' one person griped.

'So youre NOT supposed to just shove the whole thing in like a food ruler and chew it?' someone else joked.

'Turns out we were the air heads all along,' another added.

There were a number of viewers who recalled shaking the candy when they were young, and some speculated that the technique is how the candy got its name.

However, there were also plenty of naysayers who refused to believe that the candy is supposed to be shaken before eating.

'Whats your source??' one person asked. 'I need a works cited!'

'They gave us no instructions growing up. Its not incorrect just a different way of eating it,' someone else argued. 'I will die on this hill!'

Airheads debuted in 1985, and while the shaking technique has been discussed on social media for years, it was unclear if the candy was designed to be eaten this way.

A spokesperson for Perfetti Van Melle USA told DailyMail.com via email that 'it's not necessary to shake your Airheads bar' before eating it, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't.

'If you know, you know!' she added of the trend.
Patients are given between 50 and 75 small injections to numb the area

The procedure can cost up to $12,000 and takes between five and six hours

Hair transplants have become a go-to cosmetic surgery in recent years  with famous men like Elon Musk and LeBron James heavily rumored to have had one.

But doctors tell DailyMail.com the procedure is quietly becoming popular among women.

David Kurzman, who runs the Natural Transplants clinic in Florida, said between 80 and 90 percent of his patients are now women who are either self-conscious about the size of their forehead or suffer from balding or alopecia.

Other patients like Shilpa Cacho, from Dallas, Texas, are traveling to Turkey, where the procedure costs a fraction of the price  about $2,000 compared to around $12,000 in the US.

Sonja van den Berg, 33, from Amsterdam, got a hair transplant because she hated her huge forehead

She is now the founder of Beauty Gainz a company which offers all-inclusive hair transplant trips to Istanbul and Turkey. She is pictured left before her transplant, and after on the right

The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery in the US reported last year that, globally, of those having hair transplants, 87 percent are men and just 13 percent women  and that number is growing.

Ms Cacho, 35, was traveling through Istanbul, Turkey, in November 2021 while traveling when she decided to get a hair transplant at Este Grande clinic.

She told DailyMail.com: 'I always had thin hair, but it was getting progressively thinner as I got older.

'When I got to Istanbul, I started doing some research and found a clinic that had good reviews.

'I'm very much a person who's like, if I'm thinking about something, let's just give it a shot. I don't really think about it too much.

'So I just decided to do it. They were able to get me scheduled within a few days.'

During the transplant, hair follicles are extracted from areas of the scalp where hair is fuller  usually at the back  and placed into areas where the hair is thinning, where they will continue to grow and therefore give the appearance of fuller hair.

Shilpa said the most painful part was being injected with anesthesia into her scalp

But the painstaking procedure is not for the faint-hearted.

It takes between five and six hours and starts with the patient's ideal hairline being drawn onto their forehead with a pen.

Then a section at the back of the head is shaved and patient is given between 50 and 75 small injections to numb the area.

The surgeon makes an incision and cuts out a strip of tissue which is given to technicians to cut the hair follicles out of. The skin is sewn back together.

Then little incisions are made at the front of the head to place the hair follicles into.

Ms Cacho, who paid just $1,800 for the procedure, said: 'They took hair from the back of my head and put it on the front.

'The most painful part is where they're injecting the anesthesia into your scalp. It's just really painful. That's probably like 15 minutes of pretty bad pain.'

She added: 'They shaved the back of my head before they took the follicles and then they placed it on the front. She created a new hairline for me.

'Then I went back the next day, they removed the bandage washed the area and my hair.'

Vanessa, 31, a patient at the Natural Transplants clinic last year, before her hair transplant (pictured left) and one year after the procedure (pictured right). She started losing her hair in her early 20s. 'My dad has a very strong bald gene,' she said

Vanessa said: 'It's really the easier surgery you can do'

She said: 'One thing I wish I knew, is that you shouldn't go in hoping that if you have thin hair that you're going to all of a sudden have thick hair. That's not what's gonna happen.

'It literally just replaces some of your thinning hair before, but I still have thin hair. It's not a full head of hair that magically just appeared.

'It just covers up what you wanted and it creates a new hairline. But because I didn't have a lot of hair follicles in the first place, I'm not going to magically have thick hair.'

When the Natural Transplants clinic opened up in 2015, Mr Kurzman said: 'We happened to do one lady and we did a video of her and it became viral. We had people coming from the UK immediately, from France, Germany, all over.

'Dr Mehmet Oz [TV personality] even saw the video and he had one of my doctors on the show because he was so impressed with the results.

'After that, our phone rang off the hook. Next thing you know, from that point on, over 80 percent of my patients have always been women.'

The majority want to do either hairline lowering or have traction alopecia, he said.

During the transplant, hair follicles are extracted from areas of the scalp where hair is fuller  usually at the back  and placed into areas where the hair is thinning, where they will continue to grow and therefore give the appearance of fuller hair

Little incisions are made at the front of the head to place the hair follicles into. The whole transplant takes between five and six hours and starts with the patient's ideal hairline being drawn onto their forehead with a pen

A section at the back of the head is shaved and patient is given between 50 and 75 small injections to numb the area. Hair follicles are then lifted out to be moved to the front

'We give them more density so they don't look like a man... roughly 70 percent of the ladies that come to us have already had botched hair transplants. A lot of them went to Turkey... they have minimal hair and it looks terrible. A lot of them were in tears when they come in.'

Traction alopecia happens from braids and other tight hairstyles and weaves. That rips the hair up by the roots and once the follicles are ripped out, the hair doesn't grow back.

The clinic will not treat anyone under the age of 21, while their oldest patient was 81.

How much they charge depends on the amount of hair being removed, but is somewhere between $6,500 to a hefty $12,000.

Dr Harold Siegel, hair transplant surgeon at Natural Transplants, told DailyMail.com that 90 percent of his patients are female.

He thinks more women are getting the procedure done because of social media.

He said: 'A lot of times when I do a consult, my patients say, I" never knew this could get done. I never knew that we could do hair transplants."

'YouTube has been incredible, as a source of informing and educating our patients.'

Sonja van den Berg, 33, from Amsterdam, got a hair transplant because she hated her forehead and thought it was 'huge'. She visited a clinic in the Netherlands to get her hairline lowered.

The procedure cost her over $3,000 and she was so delighted with the results that she decided to set up her own company to help others gain the confidence they need.

She is now the founder of Beauty Gainz, a company that offers all-inclusive hair transplant trips to Istanbul and Turkey.

Ms van den Berg said: 'It's funny how something so subtle can make such a big difference. Honestly, I feel a little sad that I didn't know about the procedure earlier.

'Finally, I can wear my hair in ways and styles that I wasn't comfortable with before my hair transplant, and when it's windy outside I don't feel the need to hide my forehead when the wind blows my hair.'
Practices will not be allowed say 'phone back later' and must offer same-day help

GPs to get 240m for new phone systems to reduce wait times when calling

GP practices will be given 240million for new phone systems so patients no longer face engaged tones or lengthy waits during the 8am scramble for appointments.

Receptionists will also receive more training to direct callers to the medic best suited to their needs.

Practices will not be allowed to tell patients to phone back later and must offer an appointment or assessment on the same day or refer them to the likes of a pharmacist or A&E.

It comes after surveys revealed public satisfaction with GPs has hit an all-time low, with patients particularly frustrated by difficulties accessing a doctor and getting through on the phone.

An average-sized practice of 10,000 patients often receives more than 100 calls in the first hour every Monday but many patients could be seen by someone other than a family doctor.

(Stock Photo) GP practices will be given 240million for new phone systems so patients no longer face engaged tones or lengthy waits during the 8am scramble for appointments

(Stock Photo) Receptionists will also receive more training to direct callers to the medic best suited to their needs

The digital phone systems will add callers to a queue, inform them of their position and allow them to request a call back.

Online tools will offer patients an alternative way of finding the right professional for their needs, such as a pharmacist, and allow them to book appointments. The changes will feature in the Government's GP access recovery plan published tomorrow.

It also expected to create a greater role for pharmacists to help ease the strain on doctors.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: 'We are already making real progress with 10 per cent more GP appointments happening every month compared to before the pandemic. I want to make sure people receive the right support when they contact their general practice and bring an end to the 8am scramble for appointments.

'To do this we are improving technology and reducing bureaucracy, increasing staffing and changing the way primary care services are provided.'

Health Secretary Steve Barclay said: 'I want to make sure people receive the right support when they contact their general practice'

The Government will fund 6,500 so-called care navigator training places  one staff member per practice  who will be expected to pass on the training to colleagues.

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, of the Royal College of GPs, welcomed the investment but said more must be done.

'We await further details of the full access recovery plan, but ultimately the best way to improve access to GP care and address the intense workload and workforce pressures GP teams are working under is to increase numbers of fully trained, full-time equivalent GPs through effective recruitment and retention schemes,' she added.

Labour health spokesman Wes Streeting said: 'The reason people can't get a GP appointment is the Conservatives have cut 2,000 GPs. Better hold music isn't going to change that.

'Nothing in this announcement will train more doctors, allow patients to choose a face-to-face appointment, or bring back the family doctor so patients see the same GP each time.'
A mother-of-two has told how she can now barely use her hands after suffering a suspected allergic reaction to nail products.

Lisa Dewey, from Pattishall in Northamptonshire, had got regular gel manicures for years without any issues.

But following a routine appointment in February, the 36-year-old's fingers became inflamed and her nails started to peel away. One finger even turned purple, leaving her fearing that she would lose it.

Mrs Dewey's doctor diagnosed her with a bacterial infection and gave her a steroid cream and antibiotics to take.

However, after receiving another manicure last month, she has been left with 'very aggravated' fingers and is barely able to move her hands due to the pain.

Mrs Dewey, who works as an NHS cleaner, now believes that she has an allergy to a product in gel nail polish  a growing problem highlighted by dermatologists last month.

Lisa Dewey (pictured), from Pattishall in Northamptonshire, had been getting regular manicures for years without issue

But following an appointment in February, the 36-year-old's fingers became inflamed and her nails started to peel away. One finger even turned purple  leaving her fearing that she would lose it. Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails before the reaction

After getting another manicure last month, the NHS cleaner has been left with 'very aggravated' fingers and is barely able to move her hands due to the pain. Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails after her gel manicure

Mrs Dewey, a mother of two girls, aged three and 12, first noticed a reaction after getting gel nails in February.

Despite getting the same treatment she had been having for years, within a matter of days her nails had begun peeling up from the nail bed.

One even went purple, while the others became itchy and extremely sore.

She never suspected her manicure could be the problem.

Mrs Dewey said: 'I've been getting my nails done all my life for acrylics or gels.

READ MORE Brits tell of 'life-changing' allergies triggered by gel polishes During gel manicures, the chemicals enter the skin when the ultraviolet lamps used to harden each layer of gel are not used for long enough or the equipment is poorly maintained Advertisement

'So when it first happened after a set of gels in February, I thought it was a bacterial infection.'

She added: 'It happened suddenly - I feared I might even lose a finger when it went purple around the nail.

'I feared it might be starved of oxygen. But it ended up being something completely different.'

Her doctors prescribed her a round of antibiotics for what seemed to be an infection.

After having the gels removed and taking a break from nail products, she thought it was over.

But after getting a set of acrylic nails put on again in April, she had an even worse reaction.

Not only did her fingernails begin to lift again, but the skin around her nails became 'like paper', leaving her unable to move her hands due to the pain.

She has recently been prescribed a different round of medication to treat it.

Mrs Dewey did not share what doctors believe is causing her symptoms but she believes it is an allergic reaction.

The British Association of Dermatologists last month warned that medics are treating people for allergic reactions to acrylic and gel nails most weeks.

It warned that poorly-trained manicurists and at home gel polish kits were to blame for the reaction, which happens when the UV light that 'cures' the polish isn't used for long enough.

This can cause the chemicals in gel nail polishes, known as methacrylates, to leak into the skin and cause nails to fall off, rashes and even breathing difficulties, in severe cases. Sufferers can then have a 'life-long sensitisation' to the chemicals.

Those who suffer such a reaction may be unable to undergo vital operations in the future, such as cataracts, joint replacement or dental work, which involve exposure to the same chemicals.

The NHS cleaner now believes she has an allergy to a product in gel nail polish  a growing problem highlighted by dermatologists last month. Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails after her reaction

Now Mrs Dewey has vowed to stay away from nail products for good  and is warning others about the risks. Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails after her reaction

She said: 'I am going on holiday in August and I was booked to get my hands and toes done. Now I'm not getting them done.' Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails after her reaction

She added: 'I just want to do my bit in trying to get the word out that things might not be as good as they seem.' Pictured: Mrs Dewey's nails after her reaction

Mrs Dewey's hand and nail pain makes everyday tasks tough and she is constantly having to ask for help from husband Lee, 45 (pictured)

Mrs Dewey's hand and nail pain makes everyday tasks tough and she is constantly having to ask for help from husband Lee, 45.

She said: 'Washing my daughter's hair is hard because you have to bend your fingers.

'Even strapping her in the car  if I catch my finger on the belt, I jolt from the pain because the skin is raw.

'It gets so aggravated but wearing gloves doesn't even help because sweaty hands aggravate it too.

'Anything scented or fragranced makes it worse  I can't put a conditioning treatment or mousse in my hair.'

Now Mrs Dewey has vowed to stay away from nail products for good  and is warning others about the risks.

She added: 'People can get their nails done for years with no issues until one day it hits them.

'I am going on holiday in August and I was booked to get my hands and toes done. Now I'm not getting them done.

'This has knocked my confidence so much. I don't normally care what people think of me, but now I hide my hands away.

'It's just embarrassing to have hands like this. There's a coronation party this week, and if my hands aren't better, I won't be going.

'I just want to do my bit in trying to get the word out that things might not be as good as they seem.'
Scientists warned children may be ingesting the drug in illicit medications

Fentanyl deaths among children and teenagers have surged 40-fold over the last two decades, shocking figures show.

Analysis of official overdose data show there were just nine fatalities from fentanyl among those aged 20 years and under in 1999. But by 2021, this had jumped to 1,550.

The rise has pushed the mortality rate from 0.05 fentanyl deaths per 100,000 youngsters to 1.92  or a 3,740 percent increase.

Dr Julie Gaither, a pediatrician at Yale School of Medicine who carried out the analysis, called for parents to hide drugs or drug residue that could be laced with fentanyl.

This includes storing drugs in cabinets out of reach of children and cleaning surfaces that drugs were used on such as mirrors or counters. She also said that more homes should stock up on naloxone, an over-the-counter drug that can reverse a fatal fentanyl overdose.

The above graph shows how deaths from fentanyl (yellow line) in the US have spiked in children and adolescents under 20 years old

Lydie and Boris Lavenir, of Guadeloupe - a French island - never imagined they would lay their 19-month-old daughter Enora down for a nap and not have her wake up (left). Seven month old babu girl Zhuri Sade Bogle, who died in January of a fentanyl overdose

Fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and extremely lethal  with just two milligrams able to kill an adult.

Many black market drug suppliers are mixing it with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine and methamphetamines, leaving users unaware they are taking it.

In recent years, there have been several fatalities reported involving children who ingested the drug after touching contaminated surfaces.

Last month, it was revealed that 19-month-old Enora Lavenir died after ingesting fentanyl while staying at an Airbnb property in Florida.

Her parents have sued the company for advertising the property as 'peaceful', arguing it was being regularly used as a party house.

Dr Gaither warned in the journal JAMA Pediatrics: 'Findings from this study suggest that the pediatric opioid crisis is changing in ways that will make it harder to combat.

'Commonsense solutions (e.g. safe storage and disposal) are still needed to prevent pediatric exposures to opioids.

'But a greater emphasis on harm reduction strategies is necessary, including parental and adolescent treatment for opioid use disorder and improving access to naloxone in homes, which is where most pediatric deaths from fentanyl occur.'

For her research, she searched the CDC database for opioid deaths in individuals aged 20 and under between 1999 and 2021.

Deaths were converted into rates per 100,000 to account for population growth.

In total, there were 13,862 opioid deaths in youngsters of which 5,194 (37 percent) involved fentanyl.

The majority of the fatalities (89.6 percent) were among adolescents aged 15 to 19 years and children aged 0 to 4 years (6.6 percent).

Fentanyl users lay passed out in filth while a third sits unconscious in plain sight of the Capitol building in Sacramento, California on Capitol Mall itself. The state capitol is not immune from the homeless and drug problems plaguing US cities while solutions seem thin on the ground

Some 87.5 percent of the fatalities were unintentional, while 43.8 percent had occurred while the child was at home.

During the two decades covered by the research, America's opioid epidemic has shifted to a fentanyl crisis.

The opioid crisis began in the 1990s when pharmaceutical companies began aggressively marketing opioid painkillers as a safe and effective way to treat chronic pain.

The companies convinced doctors that the risk of addiction was low, prompting them to write prescriptions for millions of Americans.

Many patients then eventually turned to the black market to keep taking the drugs after becoming addicted, with many turning to heroin as a cheaper and more accessible alternative.

The fentanyl crisis began in the early 2010s when the powerful tranquilizer was mixed into other synthetic opioids in the US to boost their potency.

But this also made the drugs much more dangerous, as even small amounts can be lethal, raising the risk of death from taking the drugs.

The data revealed that fatalities from fentanyl and all opioid drugs among youngsters remained reasonably steady until 2013, around the time that fentanyl started to appear in the US drug supply.

But they have since jumped more than 30-fold, with the rise blamed on the increasing use of the drug in the black market trade.

In 1999, there were 175 deaths from opioid drugs  including fentanyl  in children and adolescents. But by 2021 this had jumped to 1,657.

The proportion linked to fentanyl rose from five percent to 94 percent over the period.

In terms of mortality rates, those for children under four years old rose six-fold between 2018 and 2021  from 0.1 to 0.69 fentanyl deaths per 100,000 fatalities.

In 2021, fentanyl was responsible for the deaths of 40 infants and 93 children aged one to four years old.

For adolescents aged 15 to 19 years old, the rate jumped three-fold from 1.67 to 6.51 over the same period.
After experiencing repeated bouts of stomach cramps and heartburn excruciating enough to take her to A&E, Karen Myers decided to use her private healthcare to get to the bottom of what was wrong.

But the results of the MRI scan she underwent were far from what she expected. 'While my stomach was fine, I was told something could be seen in my breast,' says Karen, 49, who works in media compliance and lives in London.

On the basis of this finding, her GP referred her for a mammogram which confirmed there was a mass in her right breast.

Seven days later Karen was sent for a biopsy, and the results were shattering.

'When they said I had cancer, I went numb  it didn't feel real at all,' she says.

Worrying: An MRI on her leg found a tumour on the spine of Claire Wallace, pictured with daughter Nora

Karen is one of an increasing number of patients who, each year, undergo scans or tests for one health problem only to have the doctors come across an unrelated growth or abnormality  a phenomenon known as an 'incidentaloma'

Her surgeon recommended a lumpectomy, but when, after two attempts, they couldn't remove all the cancer this way, in November 2018 she was told that the only option was a mastectomy.

'That was even more of a shock than finding out about the cancer and it was very hard to process,' recalls Karen.

Yet she also feels lucky. Nearly five years after her diagnosis she is cancer-free. As for her stomach pain: in 2020 she had her gallbladder removed as it was infected, and this was identified as the cause. She's had no health problems since.

'The doctors said I was fortunate the breast cancer had been found so early, as the tumour was only 15mm wide,' says Karen.

'Thank goodness I happened to also be having stomach problems and needed the MRI  otherwise I would have never found out about the cancer when I did, and it's possible it would have spread.'

Karen is one of an increasing number of patients who, each year, undergo scans or tests for one health problem only to have the doctors come across an unrelated growth or abnormality  a phenomenon known as an 'incidentaloma'.

There is no such thing as a normal scan these days

Investigations on the chest produce the highest rate of incidentalomas  a 2018 review in the BMJ found that around a third of MRIs of the heart identified an incidentaloma, and 42 per cent of those that were malignant were in the breast. Around 25 per cent of incidentalomas in the kidneys, ovaries and thyroid were cancerous.

Clearly incidental findings might be potentially life-saving  earlier diagnosis can mean conditions are easier to treat, leading to better outcomes.

But doctors are also concerned that, in some cases, patients are becoming a 'victim of medical imaging technology'  charmingly known as 'vomit'. Detailed modern imaging can spot tumours, growths or cysts that you would otherwise not be aware of, but are completely harmless.

Yet being alerted to the presence of any kind of growth can trigger significant anxiety for the patient. And in some cases, they will undergo invasive tests such as biopsies, or even have surgery, which can come with risks and turn out to be unnecessary.

An unidentified abnormality may have unforeseen knock-on effects  for example, potentially raising the premium of life and medical insurance policies.

The authors of the landmark BMJ research said that as investigating incidentalomas can, in some cases, cause 'more harm than good', doctors should now discuss the risk of incidental findings with their patients 'before they order an imaging test'. This lets the clinician and the patient 'weigh up the risk and benefits' of the test.

The psychological impact cannot be overestimated. When physiotherapist Claire Wallace developed severe pain and weakness in her left leg following the emergency delivery of her daughter, Nora, in August 2021, an incidentaloma created so much anxiety that she was prescribed antidepressants.

She'd undergone an MRI scan, which confirmed the leg pain was due to injury resulting from her Caesarean, but also identified a tiny, 5mm tumour on her spine.

'I thought the worst  that I had cancer  and worried what would happen to me, Nora and Ryan,' says Claire, 32, who lives in Hull with husband Ryan, 33, an Army sergeant.

Fortunately, another MRI confirmed the tumour was benign, 'but they said I'd need another scan a year later and if it grew they'd do something about it  although they didn't say what. I found it all really overwhelming'. She was prescribed anti-depressants some months later, 'as the tumour was all I could think about', she recalls. 'The extra worry had a huge impact on my first few months as a mother. It put a dampener on what should have been a very special time.'

In March, a follow-up scan found that the tumour hadn't grown so no action needed to be taken.

Giles Maskell, a consultant radiologist at an NHS trust in South-West England, says modern imaging is now revealing tiny growths that would never have been detected before (blood test technology has not changed significantly in recent decades and incidental findings happen much less frequently).

'Modern imaging is very detailed  the size of what can be detected is a fraction of what was able to be seen even 20 years ago  and our ability to find things has outstripped our understanding of what they mean,' he adds. 'Knowing how these things will develop is not always clear  in many cases it may be safe to do nothing, whereas in others prompt action is vital.'

'The one thing that's certain is the more we look, the more we find,' says Dr Maskell, who is also former president of the Royal College of Radiologists. 'Scanning is great, but there is no such thing as a normal scan these days because imaging has moved on so much and now shows everything in greater detail.

'This means that if I scanned the whole body of anybody over 20, I would find something which might conceivably be important for their future health. It probably won't be, but it might be.'

And a lot of people have no idea that if, for example, they have a scan on their spine, their kidneys might be included in the image too, or that parts of the lungs and bones are visible on heart scans, he says.

I know how worrying an incidentaloma can be. In February, I underwent a liver scan after blood tests revealed I had high levels of antimitochondrial antibodies, meaning the body's immune system was mistakenly attacking the mitochondria (the powerhouses in our cells). This can be a sign of a liver condition called primary biliary cholangitis.

This disease destroys bile ducts in the liver and, if left untreated, the liver stops working properly.

Thankfully, the ultrasound scan showed that my liver was normal, but I left hospital feeling anxious about a different part of my body entirely.

The scan revealed that there was a 6mm polyp  a growth  in my gallbladder. I was told that if it grew to 10mm, my gallbladder would need to be removed as there was a risk it would become cancerous.

This was not the first time I'd had an incidentaloma.

In 2014, after suffering from bloating and pain in my stomach, a scan revealed a 2.5cm benign tumour on my kidney, known as an angiomyolipoma (AML).

AMLs rarely cause symptoms so most people with them will not be aware that they have them.

But once you do know, you live with the knowledge that an AML can rupture and cause a potentially fatal internal bleed.

I had annual scans to monitor the growth of my symptomless tumour  if it grew to 4cm it would need to be surgically removed. Much to my relief, mine never grew, so I was discharged in 2018.

During my recent liver scan, the radiographer saw that my AML was still 2.5cm. Had there been any benefit in knowing I had it? And would the same turn out to be true about my gallbladder polyp? Some conditions lead to incidental findings more often than others, says GP and Good Health columnist Dr Martin Scurr.

IBS can lead to more of these random findings

For example, he says, as there is no definitive test for IBS, patients may be referred for tests to rule out other possible diagnoses, such as an ultrasound to check for gallstones.

'Quite often when you're investigating something in the gut, you see something else, too  such as a kidney stone that hasn't caused any problems,' says Dr Scurr.

Incidentalomas may be becoming more common because patients increasingly request scans, he says. 'Patients are more demanding and better informed than they used to be, and they want a clever scan to diagnose them.'

'They perceive that a scan  rather than a blood test, say  can give them the full picture of what's going on inside their body.

'But it's important to remember that information is not knowledge  this information comes with relative risks.'

Dr Martin Scurr says as there is no definitive test for IBS, patients may be referred for tests to rule out other possible diagnoses, such as an ultrasound to check for gallstones

Finding incidentalomas can be an even bigger problem within private healthcare, as people who appear to be well can have 'health MoTs', which often involve blood tests and scans, says Dr Scurr.

'The more you go looking, the more you'll find a few things which you then need to investigate further, and the question is: where do you stop? This is the problem with the worried well. You may make people more anxious by investigating, not less.'

Dr Maskell agrees: 'I've never been keen on that kind of thing [health MoTs] because the potential disadvantages outweigh the potential advantages.

'Everything gets more common with age so, as you get older, it's more or less certain we will find something that we won't be absolutely sure about.'

So how do doctors decide if an incidental finding is, in fact, significant?

The density and shape of a tumour, and the patient's age and general wellbeing, can give clues as to how noteworthy the incidentaloma is. But there are still gaps in our knowledge as to what these findings mean and if anything needs to be done about them, says Dr Maskell.

'Every tumour has to start small and grow, so at any size you're looking at something which might be significant,' he says.

'We know that, on balance, statistically if we see one million 2mm lung nodules [an abnormal growth in the lung], for example, none of them is likely to become cancerous. But if we see one million 2cm lung nodules, quite a lot will be.'

Often the only way to tell if the finding is important or not is to do another scan, says Dr William Ramsden, a consultant paediatric radiologist at Leeds Children's Hospital, and vice president of clinical radiology at the Royal College of Radiologists. 'This can take up time and money  and causes anxiety along the way.'

Doctors are more cautious out of fear of litigation

'Sometimes your prior knowledge and experience will allow you to let things pass, but occasionally findings may prompt a follow-up examination,' he adds.

'It's a fine balance, and because you don't want bad things to happen to patients, you might be more likely to check it out.'

However, this process of repeating scans adds to the workload of already-strained imaging services.

'There's a lot of pressure on imaging in the NHS at the moment,' says Dr Scurr.

'There's also a shortage of consultant radiologists  it's all very well doing scans, but someone has to look at the images and interpret them.'

Doctors may be more proactive when it comes to incidental findings because they feel they need to protect themselves against being sued for missing something, adds Dr Scurr.

'The situation has changed a lot in the past few decades and there is a much greater tendency to investigate,' he says.

'Doctors are now more cautious because litigation is on the up. This is partly driven by social media, law firms offering no-win, no-fee claims, and the public being more aware and inclined to ask questions.'

The bottom line is that people need to recognise that with modern technology 'you end up discovering things which have probably always happened but have never been observed before,' adds Dr Scurr. 'Often all it does is give you something to worry about  and in a lot of cases it would be better not to know.'

Dr Maskell suggests we should 'think of scanning like surgery, which always has potential complications. In the process we can find something which, later, you wish we hadn't found.'

Accidental diagnosis has stolen good years from my life

Kevin Reid, 61, was diagnosed with kidney cancer after a scan for muscular pain, leaving him flabbergasted. Sometimes he wishes hed never been told about the finding.

Knowing I have cancer has stolen good years from us, says the retired chemical engineer, who lives with his wife Emma, 55, a charity sector volunteer, in Cardiff.

Kevin (pictured) had originally gone to the doctor after experiencing a painful pulling sensation in his abdomen during sex. He was sent for a scan which found a 1cm tumour on his left kidney.

The GP said my pulling sensations were nothing to do with it  I still have them, says Kevin. I was told the cancer could have remained there for many years without me knowing about it.

Kevin Reid, 61, was diagnosed with kidney cancer after a scan for muscular pain, leaving him flabbergasted. Sometimes he wishes hed never been told about the finding

Kidney cancers are often symptomless until the tumours are at least 1.5cm wide.

Kevin had surgery to remove half of his kidney in July 2018 and had scans every year. For the next two years he lived as normal, he says.

But then a scan in December 2020 found four 5-10mm tumours on my lungs. They were slow-growing but inoperable as they were so deep inside my lungs.

I was given three to five years to live. So many thoughts went through my head, and I became withdrawn and depressed, thinking about what would happen. Id always thought I was invincible and that Id live to an old age.

It all felt so surreal, especially as I didnt feel unwell. I had no symptoms and still dont  if it wasnt for the scans I wouldnt know the tumours were there, and they havent grown since.

He has retired in order to enjoy the time he has left, but adds: Knowing my prognosis changed everything. Since then our lives have been all about cancer.

He has a scan every three months  last December this showed the cancer had spread to near his windpipe.

In February he started having immunotherapy and chemotherapy to shrink the tumours so they wouldnt affect his breathing.

I still dont feel unwell at all from the cancer, but I have experienced side- effects from the treatment, including tiredness.

Recently I became very unwell and I was diagnosed with immunotherapy-induced type 1 diabetes, an uncommon side-effect of the treatment.

If it hadnt been for the initial scan, chances are Id still feel fine and be enjoying life without cancer hanging over me.

I would rather have waited until I got symptoms to know about all this, even if that meant only having months left to live. Its a real double-edged sword having these things found by accident.
Ive been taking statins for over 30 years. I am now on my fourth type, as each one causes me bad side-effects. How important is it that I take them?

Name and address supplied.

This question will be of interest to many of the eight million people in the UK who take statins to lower their cholesterol.

Cholesterol, a natural fatty substance in your blood, is important for the functioning of many processes in the body (for example, its used by skin cells to make vitamin D from sunlight). However, high levels increase the risk of heart disease and stroke by contributing to fatty deposits in artery walls.

Despite the benefit of statins, as many as one in two people reduce their dose or stop taking them because of the side-effects, such as muscle pain and constipation.

Ive been taking statins for over 30 years. I am now on my fourth type, as each one causes me bad side-effects. How important is it that I take them? (stock image)

The fact that you eat healthily is helpful, but its unlikely that this lowers your cholesterol enough (stock image)

However, a study of four million patients, published in the European Heart Journal last year, suggested the true prevalence of side-effects is likely closer to 10 per cent. Other research suggests muscle pain, for example, may be a result of ageing rather than the medication.

It is difficult for me to advise whether statins are essential for you without knowing all your risk factors for heart disease (such as age, ethnicity, blood pressure and family history, for instance). You say in your longer letter that your cholesterol is 7mmol/l, which is above the recommended limit of 5, and you are also pre-diabetic.

The fact that you eat healthily is helpful, but its unlikely that this lowers your cholesterol enough. Thats because most cholesterol is made in the liver and a host of factors, including genes, determine how much the body makes.

There are other medications that lower cholesterol. One possible option for you is the drug ezetimibe, which can be prescribed alone or in combination with a statin. While statins work by suppressing cholesterol production in the liver, ezetimibe lowers cholesterol absorption in the intestine. But it, too, has potential side-effects, such as stomach pain.

Another option is a new class of drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors  these work by inhibiting a protein (PCSK9) in the liver that breaks down receptors that bad LDL cholesterol latch on to. The more of these receptors that you have, the lower your LDL.

The two PCSK9 inhibitors currently available are only prescribed for patients unable to take a statin or to control their cholesterol with ezetimibe. Theyre given by injection every two to four weeks, but they, too, have potential side-effects: 1-10 per cent of patients get flu-like symptoms for a day or two after the injection.

PCSK9 inhibitors have to be prescribed by a cardiologist or in a lipid treatment clinic, and so you would need to request a referral via your GP. But do persist with finding a treatment that works for you, as the health benefits of lower cholesterol could be significant.

My father experiences pain in his toes when the weather is cold, and they can be purple, swollen and sore to touch. What do you think is the problem?

Hayden Wan, Glasgow.

I believe your father has chilblains, a complaint that affects 10 per cent of people at some point.

Theyre triggered by exposure to cold or damp air: as the skin warms up, small, itchy, red or purple swellings can develop. These swellings can be painful and blister.

They occur when the small arteries near the surface of the skin become narrow when its cold; they then widen as warmth returns but in some people, if the skin warms too quickly the blood vessels cant handle the increased blood flow. The blood leaks into nearby tissue, causing the symptoms associated with chilblains.

While the toes are the most common site, in fact any of the bodys extremities  fingers, heels, ears, nose  can be affected.

Chilblains can last for months, especially in the UK, thanks to our damp, cold weather. While they normally clear at this time of year, they can persist through summer as any sudden cooling or heating can trigger them. Even walking barefoot on cold floors can be a trigger, so Id recommend wearing socks and warm slippers at home.

Smoking and vaping significantly increase the risk as they constrict blood vessels, so if your father is a tobacco user, stopping will help.

Soothing lotions based on witchhazel can help with itching, but it may be worth asking his GP about the drug, nifedipine. Taken as a daily tablet, it works by relaxing the blood vessels, improving circulation. But it does bring a risk of side-effects such as dizziness (as it lowers blood pressure), so Id urge your father to focus on prevention.

Write to Dr Scurr at Good Health, Daily Mail, 9 Derry Street, London, W8 5HY or email: drmartin@dailymail.co.uk. Dr Scurr cannot enter into personal correspondence. Replies should be taken in a general context. Consult your own GP with any health worries.

In my view: Setting the bar high for fellow doctors

Every now and then I hear of something that reaffirms my faith in my profession.

The patient was seen the following day by a cardiologist and full investigations are under way (stock image)

Last Saturday, an old friend was returning from a concert with his wife on a dark rainy night. As they walked back to their car, his wife  increasingly breathless  said that she was unable to continue and had to rest. Coming the other way was their GP.

He sat her on a nearby bench, conducted a brief examination (in the dark and rain) and advised she see a cardiologist, stating that he would arrange it.

On the Monday, he visited her at home and spent an hour conducting a physical examination. The patient was seen the following day by a cardiologist and full investigations are under way.

The pity is it happened in Toulouse, France, where the couple have recently retired. Nevertheless, this is the kind of standard of care that we should aspire to.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is under fire after renewing its grant to research bat coronaviruses with EcoHealth Alliance  the non-profit at the center of the Covid lab leak theory.

New York City-based EcoHealth  run by the British zoologist Peter Daszak  announced today that the research will resume nearly three years after it was 'terminated' by then-president Donald Trump.

Under the terms of the grant, the organization will recieve $2.3million, funded by US taxpayers, evenly spaced over the next four years to work on 'bat-origin coronaviruses'.

However, EcoHealth has agreed not to subcontract work to China, collect new virus samples from the wild or carry out 'gain of function' research - the intentional alteration of viruses to make them more infectious or deadly.

The move has already drawn fierce criticism. Experts told DailyMail.com that the move 'betrays the trust of US taxpayers'.

Dr Peter Daszak (pictured left alongside Dr Anthony Fauci) oversees EcoHealth Alliance, which funneled NIAID funds to the WIV. The nonprofit will now receive an additional $2.3million in US taxpayer funds to award over the next four years. The money will head to Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, in Singapore

The question of whether the global outbreak began with a spillover from wildlife sold at the market or leaked out of the Wuhan lab just eight miles across the Yangtze River has given rise to fierce debate about how to prevent the next pandemic. New studies point to a natural spillover at the Huanan wildlife market. Positive swab samples of floors, cages and counters also track the virus back to stalls in the southwestern corner of the market (bottom left), where animals with the potential to harbor Covid were sold for meat or fur at the time (bottom right)

Some speculate that the research into bat viruses at the Wuhan Institute of Virology sparked the pandemic.

EcoHealth Alliance President Dr Daszak told DailyMail.com the funding would be used purely for lab work and to analyze samples that were already collected and sequences at the WIV and other institutes worldwide.

As part of the grant, EcoHealth will receive $576,290 each year for the next four years for its grant title 'Understanding the Risk of Bat Coronavirus Emergence'.

In total, the non-profit has received $4.3million as part of this grant, with 1.1million being distributed to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV)

The NIH terminated the grant with EcoHealth in April 2020, under Trump, who endorsed the lab leak theory.

It was later reinstated but suspended indefinitely as the intelligence community searched for Covid's origins.

Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, on the southern tip of the island nation is southeast Asia, will be the only recipient of the grant in the next four years, Dr Daszak said.

'They've got real expertise in understanding how different viruses can bind to human cells,' he said about the school.

Their work will investigate hundreds of samples of bat coronaviruses collected from Asian countries such as China.

These researchers will not go into the field and collect new samples, just work with what already exists in their databases.

'What we want to know is could [one of these viruses] actually infect a human and they have a way to do this just using computers, or just using simple lab work,' Dr Daszak continued.

'[This work] doesn't create an infectious virus. It just uses the proteins from the viruses to see if they bite.'

The native Briton said that the recombinant virus experiments performed at the WIV  that 'everybody has been so concerned about'  will not be performed.

These experiments combine traits from multiple virus strains to create a new strain.

Some have criticized these types of experiments as dangerous 'gain of function' research which is heavily restricted worldwide.

Dr Daszak denies that the WIV performed gain-of-function research using EcoHealth funds.

However, he said the current political situation and discussion around a potential lab leak have made it unwise to continue this research in the short term.

'We actually said we were proposing to not do those experiments because I think that right now, there is so much discussion about them. So much controversy over them,' he explained.

'We're in a situation where the public hasn't really decided yet whether those experiments should happen, and what the value is and what the risk is.

'So we're going to, for the next four years, not do that type of experiment with these viruses. And I think, politically, it's a very charged situation in the US, and we felt it was the best way forward to get on with the work.'

He claimed that the NIH did not force EcoHealth to drop this type of research, and instead, the nonprofit did so of its own volition.

This grant will come with more requirements than is typical of NIH grants.

Dr Daszak said that EcoHealth and its partner must now update the NIH twice a year with the current status of its research and how the experiments push them towards the grant's goal.

Typically, this report is only needed once a year.

EcoHealth will also be required to receive approval for all of its spending using NIH funds before receiving the money.

'Normally, you spend the money and then invoice NIH, just like any contractual invoice,' Dr Daszak explained.

'Now we have to send an explanation of what we're going to spend the money on the NIH approves it, then we spend the money then we invoice them.'

He said that he 'understands' why the NIH would put such requirements in place.

However, when asked by DailyMail.com to explain why the NIH would put such guardrails on EcoHealth, he would not answer and referred questions to the agency.

As part of the renewal agreements, EcoHealth will also not be allowed to continue research in China.

The decision to renew the nonprofit's grant was met with backlash from parts of the scientific community.

Pictured: The Wuhan Institute of Virology, where crucial data was wiped by Chinese scientists

Dr Richard Ebright, a biologist at Rutgers University and longtime lab leak proponent, told DailyMail.com: 'It is an outrage that EcoHealth Alliance  an organization that potentially shares culpability for the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic ... continues to receive US-government grants and contracts.'

A report by the Office of the Inspector General published January found the organization had misused around $89,000 in funding.

He noted the non-profit could not hand over lab notebooks and other records of research being conducted at the lab when asked by US officials.

Dr Daszak denied that this record-keeping failure was linked to the suspension of EcoHealth's grant. He said EcoHealth had no role in obstructing data related to the pandemic's origins and information collected at the WIV.

He said the misuse in funding was a small portion of its overall grant.

'The violations were flagrant, were repeated, and damaged US health security and US national security, potentially being causal factors in the origin of Covid, and definitely being causal factors in the obstruction of investigation of the origin of Covid,' Dr Ebright continued.

Dr Bryce Nickels, a genetics professor at Rutgers, told DailyMail.com, referencing the previous termination of the grant: 'The US House Energy & Commerce Committee have documented multiple serious violations by EcoHealth Alliance of the contractual terms and conditions of the NIH grant that was just renewed.

'This decision betrays the trust of US taxpayers and completely undermines the stated goals of the NIH to 'exemplify and promote the highest level of scientific integrity, public accountability, and social responsibility in the conduct of science.''

Justin Goodman, senior vice president at the White Coat Waste Project, said: 'The batty taxpayer-funded grant that bankrolled EcoHealth Alliance's dangerous animal experiments in Wuhan that probably prompted the pandemic should be de-funded, not refunded.

'Taxpayers should not be forced to fund this reckless, rogue lab contractor that wastes money, breaks the law, abuses animals, and places public health in peril, and we're working with Congress now to permanently cut the purse strings.

'Stop the money. Stop the madness.'

While the lab leak theory was initially dismissed as conspiracy and xenophobic, many scientists have come around to the idea that the virus may have escaped during an accident at the WIV.

The research facility is less than 10 miles from an animal slaughter market where the first human case series was clustered.

The FBI and US Department of Energy both currently believe the pandemic has man-made origins, according to recent reports.

Some experts also claim that Covid's unique spike protein, which it uses to infect people, shows hallmarks of human engineering.

Direct and conclusive evidence for a natural or man-made origin has yet to emerge, but the lack of proof has allowed the fierce debate to proliferate.

Chinese officials, including the WIV, have refused to cooperate with the hunt for Covid's origins.
On April 6, 2013, British backpacker Sarah Groves was brutally stabbed to death in the idyllic Kashmir valley of India as she slept aboard a houseboat.

The 24-year-old former public schoolgirl from Guernsey was found in bloodied sheets, covered in puncture wounds and slashes indicative of a violent attack.

Her suspected killer - a towering 7ft-tall Dutchman named Richard De Wit - was tracked down by authorities hours later. He said the Devil compelled him to conduct the heinous act and even confessed to the murder - only to later retract his statement and declare himself innocent.

Yet despite the overwhelming evidence against him, the lying Dutchman has managed to evade justice as Sarah's case descended into farce.

A total of 225 scheduled court dates have come and gone. Witnesses have died or disappeared. And all the while, the now 53-year-old De Wit has embraced the role of the villainous, unhinged criminal.

24-year-old Sarah Groves was brutally stabbed to death in Kashmir, India, in April 2013

Richard De Wit is pictured in 2017 being escorted by Indian police from a courtroom

Ten years on from their daughter's murder, Sarah's parents are frustrated and fearful that they may never see justice, with mum Kate telling ITV last month that they 'can't get closure because we will live it until our last breath'

Doctors claim he's likely a paranoid schizophrenic who refuses to take his medication, has fired five lawyers and believes the entire case against him has been fabricated by nefarious elements of the Dutch government.

But he has also toyed with the emotions of Sarah's grieving family, cruelly telling her father Vic that he had a 'secret' to share about his daughter's murder but never actually doing so.

Now ten years on and with no murder trial in sight, Sarah's ageing parents are frustrated and fearful that they may never see justice for their daughter's murder.

Vic Groves, Sarah's father, told MailOnline: 'We are not confident that it will ever conclude.

'The worst aspect of the last decade is that we are no longer a complete family. There is a massive gap in our lives that can never be filled - Sarah was one in a million, a wonderful person in every way who always considered others ahead of herself.'

Mr Groves, 80, and mother Kate, 76, added: 'She is sorely missed by very many people  family, friends, acquaintances and even people who never really knew her.'

Here, MailOnline remembers the horrific circumstances surrounding Sarah's death, delves into the dark mind games employed by De Wit, and tells of the Groves family's enduring fight for justice.

Sarah's murder

Sarah Groves had travelled to India in February 2013 to meet her boyfriend, Indian national Saeed Ahmad Shoda.

Described by her family as 'a joy from the moment she was born', free-spirited and optimistic Sarah loved to travel. Her journey to the picturesque Kashmir valley promised to be yet another exciting adventure.

But parents Vic and Kate could not shake the feeling that their daughter's trip was a bad idea.

They had begged Sarah not to travel to Kashmir - which lies in territory disputed by India and Pakistan and as such is prone to unrest - and had even booked a trip to Nepal where they were planning to meet Sarah and persuade her to leave Kashmir.

But their chance to talk Sarah out of her travels never came.

Sarah was found dead inside her room in the New Beauty houseboat in Dal Lake in Kashmir's Srinagar city on April 6, 2013. She had been stabbed 45 times.

Mum Kate told ITV last month that even ten years on, she still blames herself for not convincing Sarah to leave Kashmir sooner.

'I have to live with that now... anyone I tell says you can't blame yourself... but I just said I was her best friend and I wasn't there,' Kate said through tears.

Sarah's bloodied, savaged corpse was discovered by her boyfriend's brother Irfan and father Abdul. They said she was clutching a mobile phone, as if attempting to call for help.

Undated family handout photo of Sarah Groves (centre) with her mum Kate Groves and dad Vic Groves

Undated family handout photo of Sarah Groves during a visit to Childreach International's school in Tanzania

Sarah was found dead in her bloodied bed aboard the New Beauty houseboat on Lake Dal in Srinagar, Kashmir, India

Dr Farida Noor, head of forensics at Srinagar's General Medical College, said the former public school girl exhibited a series of defensive wounds and had likely woken up to find her killer towering over her.

Dr Noor said: 'Two of the wounds were fatal, one on her neck and the other pierced her lung.

'The cause of death was haemorrhage, but all the rest of the injuries were defence wounds. She tried to save herself... I think she would have fought bravely.'

Hours later, Indian police arrested De Wit, of Ridderkerk in the Netherlands, some 50 miles away from the scene of the crime.

He was found shoeless and soaking wet, carrying nothing but a passport and 2,000.

Investigators quickly learned he had been staying in the room adjacent to that of Sarah on the New Beauty houseboat, and had stolen a rowing boat to escape after the murder. The vessel capsized, forcing him to swim to shore before he paid a taxi driver to whisk him to a neighbouring city.

He was charged with murder in June 2013. But almost ten years later, the Dutchman is yet to stand trial.

Richard De Wit: Paranoid politician turned killer

Richard De Wit did not have a history of crime and murder. But details of his past paint a picture of a man whose paranoia led him down a dark path and turned him into a ruthless killer with no remorse for his actions.

As a young man, De Wit had been a member of a nationalist, anti-immigration political party in the Netherlands, the Central Democrats, and served as a councillor for three years before being pressured by family members to leave the party which was disbanded in the early 2000s.

But the Dutchman's exit from politics saw the giant become increasingly mistrustful. He believed the Dutch government was monitoring his activities and wanted him to work as an agent to reveal insider secrets about the Central Democrats, and told family and friends that the Dutch government had tapped his phone and monitored him through his computer's camera.

Another of his wild theories suggested he had been visited by intelligence agents who believed he was a far-Right republican posing a threat to Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands.

His wife, Thai national Uma Rupanya, told MailOnline that her husband had become increasingly insecure, bordering on psychotic, and had stopped taking prescribed medication before abandoning her and their two children six months before Sarah's murder to go travelling.

In the months after leaving Rupanya, De Wit went to Kenya, Dubai and Nepal, before eventually settling in Kashmir - the scene of Sarah's grisly murder.

In the years since his arrest, De Wit's behaviour while in custody has been highly unpredictable, and doctors who have evaluated him believe his erratic behaviour and inconsistent recollection of events is indicative of paranoid schizophrenia.

He has refused to take medication, took off his clothes even in the cold winter months, and has been known to lock himself in the bathroom to avoid attending hearings via video-link.

De Wit is believed to be a paranoid schizophrenic, but he has exhibited a complete lack of remorse for his actions and has even sought to torment Sarah's father Vic

A young Richard De Wit is seen in this image taken from social media in 2013

But despite De Wit's apparent struggles with mental health, he has exhibited a complete lack of remorse for his actions, and has even sought to torment Sarah's father Vic.

When questioned about the killing, the Dutchman told authorities that 'the Devil took hold of my body' and allegedly told Sarah's boyfriend: 'There is no reason (why I killed her) - I just killed her.'

In 2017, he mysteriously told a court that he had a 'secret' to share about Sarah's murder, despite claiming innocence.

'I am not guilty. I want to meet Sarah's parents and reveal some things about the case,' he said.

'I won't say anything in the court but will only meet and tell Mr and Mrs Groves.'

These words have only served to increase the torment for Sarah's family, whom De Wit has kept on tenterhooks with cryptic messages and false hope.

And he has fired a string of lawyers, further complicating the tumultuous legal process and preventing his case from moving forward.

A family's fight for justice

Vic and Kate Groves have spent countless hours campaigning for Sarah's killer to face justice.

But they have been thwarted at every turn by De Wit's antics, a laborious Indian legal system and apparent refusal on behalf of the British government to aid in the expedition of their daughter's case.

Upon his arrest, De Wit told authorities he had consumed cannabis and heroin during his time in Kashmir.

Doctors who examined him then reported his apparent schizophrenic tendencies and concluded he had a 'well systematised delusional belief' that he was being pursued by the Dutch government.

Police say De Wit once confessed to having committed the murder, but later retracted the confession, claiming that he was under pressure from the officers. The act of retracting his statement meant authorities could no longer proceed to sentencing and were forced to initiate a trial.

In one 2017 hearing, the Dutchman declared that he had converted to Islam in an attempt to ingratiate himself with locals in the Muslim majority state of Kashmir.

'I am trying my best to cope up with the case. I converted to Islam long ago to make myself comfortable with the people around,' he said.

'I am looking for a lawyer who could defend my case but there is no one.' But De Wit's complaints that he had no legal representation were unfounded.

He in fact worked with five different lawyers willing to take his case - only to fire each and every one of them, accusing them of incompetence or being in cahoots with the Dutch government.

Already four years into a constant and ultimately futile struggle with Indian authorities to speed along proceedings, Vic told MailOnline in 2017: 'I am beyond frustrated and now have little confidence in the system. The problem is Mr De Wit has no representation and until the court imposes that on him this will not change.

Vic Groves (left) the father of Sarah Groves, who was stabbed to death in India, gives an emotional press conference at Guernsey Police HQ, St Peter Port with his son Ben

De Wit is loaded into a defendant's bus in India following a court appearance

Sarah Groves was killed more than ten years ago but her suspected killer is still yet to go to trial

'Due to his mental health he can't represent himself and he keeps getting rid of his lawyers as he is so paranoid.

'We have written to the judge and asked him to appoint a defender for De Wit, as he has the power to do. Why he hasn't done it, I have no idea.'

Law experts say that the local police have failed to build a watertight case against De Wit and even failed to present witnesses in court.

Some of the witnesses named in initial proceedings have died, such is the length of the case, while others have been deemed 'untraceable'.

Meanwhile, flooding in Kashmir has wiped away evidence of the murder and two judges expected to hear the case have since stepped down.

With each passing day, the chances of Sarah's family seeing justice become yet more slim, and 80-year-old Vic this week slammed Indian authorities for not taking his daughter's murder 'seriously'.

He told MailOnline: 'It's frustrating because the authorities in Kashmir have never treated the trial of the Dutchman accused of Sarah's murder seriously.

'There were more than 225 scheduled hearings over the first eight years of which only a small percentage actually took place. The trial was suspended some two years ago because the accused was deemed unfit to stand trial. This is the on-going situation as we understand matters.'

But despite his anguish, Mr Groves hinted that the family might receive some kind of closure in the near future.

He said: 'There are some developments, and we are hopeful that there will be a conclusion that offers some level of closure. No further comment on this at this stage.'

Following her death, Sarah's family and friends set up the Sarah Groves Foundation to help keep her memory alive.

Mr Groves revealed that its aim is to support art, fitness and adventure in young people's lives, areas that were 'close to Sarah's heart.'

Last month, Vic told ITV on the ten-year anniversary of his daughter's murder that he has all but given up hope that Sarah's killer will be brought to trial and slammed the British government for their lack of involvement.

'De Wit has supposedly been having treatment but we don't know where or how effective, so the trial itself has all but petered out.

'We are unavoidably wrapped up in international politics and we have a British government who haven't stood by us.

'Nothing has worked out in our favour as the political situation between federal India and Kashmir is at an all time low.'

In other remarks to the BBC, Vic concluded: 'I haven't got too many more ten-year gaps to lose.'

An FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are providing consular assistance to the family of Sarah Groves and are in regular contact with the authorities in Kashmir.'
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, fifth from right, poses with Korean business leaders at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, Monday. From fourth from left are Korea International Trade Association (KITA) Chairman Koo Ja-yeol, Korea Enterprises Federation (KEF) Chairman Sohn Kyung-shik, Kishida, Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) Acting Chairman Kim Byung-joon and Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Chairman Chey Tae-won. Courtesy of FKI



By Kim Hyun-bin



Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has asked Korean business leaders to strengthen cooperation with their Japanese counterparts in creating sustainable global supply chains and advancing chips, batteries and other strategic industries, according to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and participants, Monday.



"It would be good if companies take the lead in cooperation between Korea and Japan," Kishida, who came to Korea Sunday to hold a summit with President Yoon Suk Yeol, said during his meeting with heads of Korea's six major business associations at Lotte Hotel Seoul.



The participants of the meeting included Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Chairman Chey Tae-won, Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) Acting Chairman Kim Byung-joon, Korea International Trade Association (KITA) Chairman Koo Ja-yeol, Korean Enterprises Federation (KEF) Chairman Sohn Kyung-shik, Korea Federation of SMEs Chairman Kim Ki-moon and Federation of Middle Market Enterprises of Korea Chairman Choi Jin-sik. The closed-door meeting took place for about an hour.



Korean business leaders reaffirmed their willingness to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation and requested the Japanese government to actively cooperate in exchanges between Korean and Japanese companies.





Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, third from right, talks with Korean business leaders including Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) Acting Chairman Kim Byung-joon, fourth from left, at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of FKI
It shows a number of nations have become more sympathetic to Russia seeking to keep economic ties

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More than 14 months ago, Vladimir Putin's shocking invasion of Ukraine sparked horror and outrage from the international community, with many leaders lining up to condemn Moscow's actions.

NATO, the EU and other Western allies have also been providing vast numbers of weapons and military hardware to Ukraine while imposing sanctions on Russia.

While this support from many countries has grown as Ukraine demonstrates its ability to not just hold out against Russia, but also push its armies back, many others still refuse to condemn the military action which has cost thousands of lives.

Some have decided to remain neutral in public while preserving their own historic or trade links with Russia, while others have parroted the Kremlin lies about Ukraine and the West being responsible for Moscow's aggression.

Despite Ukraine's Western allies countering this on the world stage, saying Russia's invasion is illegal and nothing but an imperialistic land grab, the number of countries actively condemning Russia on the world stage has fallen over the last year.

2023: A map showing which countries have condemned Russia, are leaning towards the west, are neutral, are more Russia-leaning or supportive of Russia in the context of Putin's invasion of Ukraine, according to a report by the EIU

2022: A map which countries backed Putin, were neutral or undeclared or were against Putin last year during the early phases of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine

According to a report from the Economist Intelligence Unit in March 2023, the number of countries condemning Russia fell from 131 to 122 from the previous year.

It showed that pockets of support for Russia were growing in the developing world, with countries such as South Africa, Uganda and Botswana now leaning towards Russia having been neutral just one year ago.

Meanwhile, the report says, others including Iran, Mali and Burkina Faso, have moved from being Russian-leaning to showing full-blown support for Putin's actions. Iran, for example, has been providing arms to Moscow's armies.

Western leaders have been pushing for some of the world's biggest players outside of western alliances, such as India and Brazil, to take a tough stance against Russia, to no avail. Instead, they choose to remain neutral.

This is despite the International Criminal Court charging Putin with war crimes, and for the UN voting overwhelmingly to condemn Russia last year.

At the same time, Russia has worked to solidify its relationship with China, the biggest kingmaker in the eastern hemisphere, with president Xi Jinping visiting Moscow in March in a propaganda coup for the Kremlin.

Here, MailOnline looks at the countries that have publicly aligned with Russia, and those who have so far not condemned it for its barbaric actions.

Putin's backers

Belarus

The neighbouring countries of Belarus and Russia share more than just a land border.

The former Soviet nations have important economic and political ties, with Russia accounting for 48 per cent of Belarus' external trade in 2021.

The two nations also share similarly-minded strongmen at the helm, with Alexander Lukashenko enjoying the role of Putin's war-mongering sidekick.

He owes him loyalty after Putin backed the then-beleaguered Belarusian leader when protests from May 2020 to March 2021 nearly ousted him from power.

Lukashenko has since allowed Russian forces to engage in war games on his territory in the lead-up to the invasion and to take part in joint military drills while amassing troops on the Ukraine border.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin embrace each other during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, April 5, 2023

He then allowed his country to be used as a launchpad for Russia forces to invade Ukraine from the north. The armies that flooded down from Belarus were the ones to reach Kyiv, and occupied areas around the capital for more than a month.

Fears have grown that Belarus could get involved in the conflict itself, sending its own armies into Ukraine to assist Putin's struggling forces.

Lukashenko has repeatedly warned Ukraine that in the unlikely event that it attacked his country, it would be seen as an act of provocation - and we would respond.

More recently, in March this year, Belarus said it would host Russian tactical nuclear weapons on its territory, saying it was the result of years of Western pressure.

Syria

Bashar al-Assad has praised Putin for his deadly invasion, while at the same time denouncing Western 'hysteria' over the manoeuvre.

The Syrian leader, who himself has been accused of war crimes for the use of chemical weapons, said events in Ukraine are 'a correction of history and restoration of balance which was lost in the world after the breakup of the Soviet Union'.

He added: 'Syria stands with the Russian Federation based on its conviction that its position is correct and because confronting NATO expansionism is a right for Russia.'

Russia and Syria have enjoyed strong relations with the Soviet Union previously supporting Syrian independence.

The alliance was strengthened between the two leaders when Putin entered the Syrian civil war in support of the government.

The decision to join the war was Moscow's first military action outside the former Soviet Union since the federation's collapse.

It saved Assad's government and turned the tide of the war in his favour, enabling the Syrian leader to brutally reassert control over much of Syria.

Russian airstrikes often indiscriminately hit hospitals, schools and markets.

The war-ravaged country became a testing ground for Russian weapons and tactics that it can now bring to bear in Ukraine.

Within Syria, Russia added a soft power campaign.

Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad at the Kremlin in Moscow on March 15, 2023

In some areas, festivals were put on to popularise Russian culture, Russian national songs were played on Syrian television, self-serving propaganda was churned out and hot meals were served to civilians.

Assad owes much to Putin for his intervention, and he has now returned the favour to Russia. Syria has regularly joined Putin's other allies - including Belarus, North Korea and Nicaragua in voting against motions at the UN to condemn Russia.

Assad is understood to have provided hundreds of Syrian troops to Russia's war efforts, although while observers feared this could be a significant boon to Putin's forces fighting in Ukraine, little ever came of their intervention.

Iran

Since mid-2022, Iran has been Russia's top military backer, according to the US.

Tehran's decision to support Russia in the war in Ukraine is reflected in the growing strategic alliance between the two countries.

Iran has supplied hundreds of drones - including the the Shahed-136 suicide drone and the Mohajer-6 reconnaissance and strike drone - which have been used to wreak havoc on Ukraine's civilian population for around six months.

Several people have been killed in drone strikes on buildings.

November also saw Iran ship artillery and tank rounds to Russia. According to the Wall Street Journal, Iran shipped 300,000 artillery shells and one million rounds of ammunition via the Caspian Sea between October 2022 and April 2023.

In exchange for the massive supply of arms, 'Russia has been offering Iran unprecedented defensive cooperation, including on missiles, electronics and air defence,' John Kirby of the US National Security Council has said.

Tehran has also been looking to purchase Russian fighter jets, reports have said, with Iranian pilots having started training to fly them in spring 2022.

Pictured: An Iranian-made Shahed-136 suicide drone soars over Kyiv. Iran has supplied hundreds of the drones - which have wreaked havoc in Ukraine - to Moscow's armies

Firefighters help a local woman evacuate from a residential building destroyed by a Russian drone strike, which local authorities consider to be Iranian-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) Shahed-136, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine October 17

North Korea

North Korea sided with Russia and its invasion of Ukraine in the early phases of the war, blaming the 'hegemonic policy' and 'high-handedness' of the US and the West.

In its first official statement on Russia's attack - just days after the invasion - the Foreign Ministry said that the West was guilty of 'abuse of power'.

'The root cause of the Ukraine crisis totally lies in the hegemonic policy of the U.S. and the West, which enforce themselves in high-handedness and abuse of power against other countries,' the North's official KCNA news agency said, citing an unnamed foreign ministry spokesperson.

North Korea accused Washington and its allies of 'ignoring Russia's reasonable and legitimate demands' for guaranteeing legally backed security assurances.

They 'systematically undercut the European security environment by pursuing the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's expansion towards the east, including blatantly deploying attack weapons systems,' KCNA said.

'The reality proves once again that as long as the U.S. unilateral and double-dealing policy that threatens a sovereign country's peace and safety exists, there will never be peace in the world.'

The Soviet-era allies who share an 11-mile-long border are both motivated by anti-West and anti-NATO sentiments and have nuclear capabilities.

When Putin in September ordered the annexation of four Ukrainian regions - Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia - North Korea was one of the few nations to recognise the move.

And amid dwindling Russian supplies of ammunition and weapons, reports have said North Korea is supplying arms to Russia. Meanwhile, Pyongyang condemned the US and other western nations for sending main battle tanks to Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shake hands while posing for a photograph during their meeting in Vladivostok, Russia, 25 April 2019

Venezuela

According to the Kremlin, Venezuela's leader Nicolas Maduro offered 'strong support' to Putin in the early days of the war.

The authoritarian pair discussed an increasing strategic partnership in a phone call after Maduro denounced 'the perverse plans that seek to surround Russia militarily and strategically' - parroting the Kremlin line about western expansionism.

Venezuela's foreign ministry also blamed the US for the violence perpetrated by Russia after Putin launched his invasion.

They said in a statement: 'The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela expresses its worry over the worsening of the crisis in Ukraine, and laments the mockery and violation of the Minsk accords on the part of NATO, encouraged by the United States of America.

The derailment of these accords has violated international law and created strong threats against the Russian Federation, its territorial integrity and sovereignty, as well as impeded good relations between neighbouring countries.'

Venezuela is Russia's most important trading ally in Latin America as an anti-US left-wing state.

During the Soviet Union, relations were established between the two countries and these continued under Hugo Chavez who bought billions of pounds worth of arms from his ally.

During the current presidential crisis in Venezuela, Putin has pledged his support to Maduro and recognised his election wins which others have deemed fraudulent.

The two nations have carried out joint military exercises and share an opposition to the West, worsened by sanctions imposed against Maduro's perceived illegitimate government.

Cuba

Like Venezuela, Cuba pledged allegiance to Russia and placed the blame with the US and the West as the war broke out.

The nation criticised the US for imposing 'the progressive expansion of NATO towards the borders of the Russian Federation' while calling for a diplomatic solution to the conflict, which on Russian terms would mean Ukraine giving up territory.

Cuba and Russia have had close relations since the Soviet Union when ballistic missiles were placed there by Nikita Khrushchev, sparking the Cuban Missile Crisis.

After the 1959 Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro, the new Marxist-Leninist administration sought a close alliance with the Soviets.

The resulting sanctions and embargoes from the US moved Cuba further into the Soviet sphere and the countries have maintained their strong relations following the collapse of the superpower.

Cuba also recognised Crimea as part of Russia during the 2014 annexation.

Myanmar

Myanmar's military government has also expressed support for Putin and his territorial ambitions in Ukraine.

General Zaw Min Tun, a spokesperson for the junta's council, said: 'Number one is that Russia has worked to consolidate its sovereignty. I think this is the right thing to do. Number two is to show the world that Russia is a world power.'

Myanmar's military government has also expressed support for Putin and his territorial ambitions in Ukraine. Pictured: Protesters watch as a burning barricade emits black smoke into the air during clashes with the military junta in March 2021 (file photo)

The government in exile has backed Ukraine, saying in a Twitter statement it condemned Russia's actions.

The support from the junta came as a result of Russia and China's military backing.

Reports have said the two powers are providing Myanmar's military junta with fighter jets that are being used to slaughter civilians.

A UN report has said Russia had supplied drones, two types of fighter jets, and two kinds of armoured vehicles, one with air defence systems.

Russia has been the generals' closest international allies amid efforts by the West to isolate them following the overthrow of the government.

Sitting on the fence

China

As Western sanctions clamped down on the Russian economy, China was the most powerful country to throw Vladimir Putin a lifeline.

Just weeks before the war, Putin travelled to China ahead of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics amid a massive build up of Russian troops on Ukraine's border.

There, the two leaders met and agreed to a 'no limits' relationship, and after troops marched into Ukraine, China refused to condemn Russia's actions - despite China having a friendly relationship with Ukraine in previous years.

China also repeated Kremlin propaganda about the war, opposed sanctions against Russia, and even increased its imports of Russian oil - greatly helping the Russian economy as it was suffering from sanctions. At one stage, around 30 percent of all oil and gas produced in Russia was being sold to China.

In the early phases of the invasion, China also threw Moscow another sanctions-busting lifeline by lifting wheat import restrictions from Russia.

Despite this, China has publicly stated that it is neutral in the conflict, and while it has refused to condemn Russia's actions, it has stopped short of supporting them.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping toast during their dinner at The Palace of the Facets, a building in the Moscow Kremlin, on March 21, 2023

Instead, it has worked to position itself as a neutral in the conflict, criticising the West for supplying arms to Ukraine while calling for a peaceful resolution.

In February, Beijing put forward a twelve-point peace plan, calling for a ceasefire in Ukraine and for peace talks to be held between Moscow and Kyiv.

While Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelensky indicated he might consider parts of the proposal, it was on a whole rejected on account of it suggesting that Ukraine would have to give up some of its territory over to Russia.

This has always been seen as a red line for Ukraine, which has shown that it has the capabilities to push Russia back and liberate regions seized by Moscow.

The US Secretary of State questioned China's proposal, saying 'the world should not be fooled by any tactical move by Russia, supported by China or any other country, to freeze the war on its own terms.'

Ultimately, Putin's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also rejected the deal saying that new 'territorial realities could not be ignored'.

A month later, Xi Jinping visited Moscow in both an official and unofficial capacity. It was the first meeting Putin held with an international leader after the ICC issued a warrant for his arrest, and was seen as a strengthening of ties between the pair.

They called each other 'dear friends' and shared a toast.

'Change is coming that hasn't happened in 100 years. And we are driving this change together,' Xi told Putin via his interpreter during the meeting  words that set alarm bells ringing in the West.

'Please, take care, dear friend,' he added, gripping the Kremlin leader's hand warmly before being waved off by the Russian despot, who bid Xi a 'safe journey'.

Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March this year in both an official and unofficial capacity. It was the first meeting Putin held with an international leader after the ICC issued a warrant for his arrest, and was seen as a strengthening of ties between the pair

India

Narendra Modi's government has also been trying to perform a balancing act. India has not explicitly condemned Russia's actions, nor voiced support for Putin.

Modi has been resistant to calls from the west to put pressure on Russia, and during a meeting with Putin in September, called their relationship 'unbreakable'.

While the Indian leader told Putin that it's 'not a time for war,' he still refuses to assign blame for the conflict - instead voicing concern over rising food costs than for the thousands of people being killed on Ukrainian battlegrounds.

Like China, India has doubled down on buying Russian oil at bargain prices.

India, now the world's most populated country, has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. This needs fuel.

By 2030, it is forecast to be the third biggest in the world, after the United States and China. It is also the third biggest oil consumer in the world.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to be India's biggest arms suppliers and the two vast nations were close during the Soviet era.

Following the dissolution, the pair continue to enjoy a 'special and privileged strategic partnership' and much of India's army is still equipped with soviet weapons.

However, these weapons are now starting to deteriorate.

As a result, India's government is looking to modernise with western upgrades. Despite this, Moscow continues to supply India with the majority of its arms.

Modi has been resistant to calls from the west to put pressure on Russia, and during a meeting with Putin in September, called their relationship 'unbreakable'. Pictured: Modi and Putin embrace during a meeting in 2018 (file photo)

South Africa and other African nations

According to the EIU, South Africa was one of the countries to have shifted from being neutral in the conflict in Ukraine, to taking a Russia-leaning stance.

In January 2023, supposedly neutral South Africa sparked fury by inviting Russia and China for war games.

The move was a strong indication of the strengthening relationship between South Africa, whose governing ANC party is allegedly in the pocket of a sanctioned Moscow oligarch, and the anti-West authoritarian regimes of China and Russia.

The 'multinational maritime exercise' was slammed by South Africa's leading Daily Maverick newspaper as 'immoral, stupid and impractical'.

Further signs that South Africa was sympathetic towards Russia came after the ICC announced it had issued the arrest warrant for Putin.

South Africa is a member of the ICC, and therefore would in theory be obligated to arrest the Russian despot should he step foot on the country's soil.

However, President Cyril Ramaphosa said in April that his ruling ANC party had resolved that South Africa should quit the 'unfair' International Criminal Court.

'Yes, the governing party... has taken that decision that it is prudent that South Africa should pull out of the ICC,' Ramaphosa said during a press conference co-hosted with the visiting President of Finland Sauli Niinisto.

Ramaphosa said the decision, which followed a weekend meeting of the African National Congress (ANC), was reached 'largely' because of what is perceived as the court's unfair treatment of certain countries.

This was understood to mean Russia.

Pretoria has close ties with Moscow dating back decades to when the Kremlin supported the ANC's fight against apartheid.

The continental powerhouse has refused to condemn the invasion of Ukraine, which has largely isolated Moscow on the international stage, saying it wants to stay neutral and prefers dialogue to end the war.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin speaks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa at the first plenary session as part of the 2019 Russia-Africa Summit at the Sirius Park of Science and Art in Sochi, Russia, October 24, 2019

South Africa has 'adopted this stance of being non-aligned to ensure that we are able, as a country, to play a role in helping conflict to come to an end,' said Ramaphosa. He said he had spoken to Putin several times and sent a clear message that 'there needs to be negotiation'.

Mali and Burkina Faso have also moved closer towards Russia. This has been put down to the presence of the Wagner Group of mercenaries fighting in the region.

Wagner's appearance in Mali was one of the reasons given by French president Emmanuel Macron for his decision to pull out 2,400 troops from the country, where they had been fighting jihadists.

Mr Macron suspected the mercenaries had struck a deal with Mali's ruling junta.

South Africa, Mali and Burkina Faso all demonstrate Russia's growing influence on the continent of Africa.

Brazil

Since Putin invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Brazil underwent a seismic change in leadership. However, this did not shift its position on the war too dramatically.

Former president Jair Bolsonaro had opposed sanctions on Russia following the invasion, and stated that Russia in-turn backed Brazil's position on the Amazon.

That being said, in February 2022 Brazil did vote in favour of a draft UN resolution condemning Russia's invasion - despite Bolsonaro declining to condemn it himself.

'Brazil will not take sides,' he said of the war.

In October 2022, however, Bolsonaro was voted out of office, with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva becoming president in a result seen as a positive step in the West after Bolsonaro's shift towards authoritarianism.

But while Lula has been hailed as a positive step for Brazil by many, his views on Ukraine before his victory had been criticised on account of him appearing sympathetic towards the Kremlin claims over the causes of the conflict.

Nevertheless, in March, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said Putin would face arrest if he entered Brazil.

In April Lula condemned Russia's violation of Ukraine's borders - calling on Putin to pull all his forces out of territory it has occupied since February 2022

He called for a 'negotiated political solution to the conflict', but suggested that Ukraine could 'give up Crimea' in exchange for peace.

Ukraine has always been angered at such suggestions, saying that it will not appease Russia which annexed the Ukrainian territory in 2014.

Turkey, Colombia & Qatar

Three other countries that shifted from being western-leaning to neutral over the last year, according to the EIU, have been Turkey, Colombia and Qatar.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan meet on the sidelines of the 6th summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-building Measures in Asia (CICA), in Astana, Kazakhstan October 13, 2022

The trio are seen as doing so more to benefit their economy by playing both sides.

Turkey in particular has been a major player in the conflict. As a member of NATO, it is engaged with Ukraine and its western allies. But due to Ankara's close ties with Moscow, it has been in a unique position to have an open dialogue with Russia.

On a number of occasions, Turkey has worked to orchestrate peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, and was also integral in the Black Sea Grain Initiative - that persuaded Russia to allow shipments of Ukrainian grain to leave its ports.

Colombia, meanwhile, has refused US requests to send weapons to Ukraine - drawing praise from Russia. In the middle east, Qatar has seen the war as an opportunity to capitalise on the EU ceasing its Russian oil imports.
YouTube would not have become the most popular video sharing platform on the internet if it's founder had their way.

When it first launched in February 2005, it was originally intended to be a site for video dating.

YouTube founders Jawed Karim and Steven Chen have attested to this in previous interviews.

YouTube founders Jawed Karim and Steven Chen said they had very different ideas for the site when it was launched in 2005

Karim (pictured) said they even had a slogan: 'Tune in, Hook up'

Chen (pictured) said YouTube was original meant to be a site for video dating

Speaking at the SXSW conference in 2016, Chen said: 'We always thought there was something with video there, but what would be the actual practical application.

'We thought dating would be the obvious choice.'

Karim has also previously spoken about YouTube's romantic origins, telling Motherboard in 2015: 'We even had a slogan for it: Tune in, Hook up.

'The whole thing didn't make any sense. We were so desperate for some actual dating videos, whatever that even means, that we turned to the website any desperate person would turn to, Craigslist.'

Despite offering to pay women $20 to upload videos of themselves to YouTube, nobody came forward.

Chen, Karim and fellow co-founder Chad Hurley were forced to adopt a different strategy.

Eventually they decided to abandon the dating plans and launch it as just a video sharing site.

YouTube's first official video was of Karim at San Diego Zoo

'OK, forget the dating aspect, let's just open it up to any video,' Chen said.

YouTube's first official video was Karim's Me At The Zoo which was captured at the San Diego Zoo and showed him standing in front of an elephant enclosure in 2005.

The following year the three founders sold the site to Google for $1.65 billion.

Chen, Karim and Hurley founded YouTube while working for PayPal, and the original YouTube headquarters was above a pizzeria in San Mateo, California.

Their idea behind YouTube was for non-computer experts to be able to use a simple interface to allow users to publish, upload and view videos through internet browsers.
The founder of the collapsed Shakuhachi fashion empire is living it up in Bali, new photos show - years after she left Australia and a trail of debts behind.

Despite owing hundreds of thousands to around 80 creditors when she left Australia, mother-of-two Jessie White is living a glamorous life in the trendy resort village of Seminyak on the south coast of the Indonesian island of Bali.

In recent months Ms White has reactivated her Instagram account, sharing pictures of herself dressed in designer clothing at beach clubs and bars on the holiday island.

The mum-of-two counts fellow Australian expats, hotelier Cisco Tschurtschenthaler, former Real House Of Melbourne Sally Bloomfield and Lindy Klim as close friends.

Life's a beach for failed fashionista Jessie White (pictured) who is pictured at a beach in Bali with her children

Ms White is understood to have sought refuge in Indonesia after her once popular fashion label was placed under voluntary administration, after which Andrew Spring of forensic accounting firm Jirsch Sutherland was appointed liquidator.

The former fashion darling - who grew up in Melbournes well-heeled south-eastern suburbs, before making the move to Sydney - is no stranger to celebrity fashion circles.

White is also step-siblings with The Cat Empire keyboard player and backing vocalist Ollie McGill.

With a thriving social life in Bali, White even managed to attend artist Vicki Lee's star studded wedding in Italy in 2019.

Jessie White has been living it up in Bali with celebrity friends like Lindy Klim

Jessie and Lara Worthington holidaying in Italy ahead of artist Vicki Lee 2019 wedding

At the time of the company's collapse, Mr Spring's report to the company's creditors said the total amount owed was more than $860,000.

Creditors included manufacturers, modeling agencies and Woollahra Municipal Council.

Mr Spring told Daily Mail Australia: 'Our investigations identified potential claims against Ms White and a related entity, Emporium Clothing Pty Ltd.

'Ms White relocated to Bali and the related entity was Liquidated. Due to commercial considerations these claims were unable to be fully prosecuted.

'We reported the findings of our investigations to the relevant authorities to consider any applicable action to be taken against Ms White.'

Shakuhachi is still operating as its assets and brand were bought from administrators by Loft HK Limited in 2015

Daily Mail Australia understands the corporate watchdog ASIC declined to take further action.

Shakuhachi is still operating as its assets and brand were bought from administrators by Loft HK Limited in 2015.

The brand currently operates a bricks and mortar store in Seminyak in which Ms White appears involved with.

In 2017, A Current Affair reporter Chris Allen tracked down a care-free Jessie seen relaxing at beach clubs and socializing with friends.

However, things quickly turned sour when she refused to answer questions about her business failings when confronted in a Bali cafe.

The designer, who initially smiled for the cameras, gets up and leaves the table, reportedly hiding in the toilets up the back.

She didn't say a word. Daily Mail Australia approached Ms White for comment.
Josef Fritzl wants a reconciliation with his former wife - and bizarrely claims they are still married despite divorcing 11 years ago in an extraordinary new memoir to try and win his release from prison.

The Austrian sex monster, who locked his daughter Elisabeth in a cellar for 24 years and fathered seven children with her, makes light of his horrific crimes and describes his trial as a 'huge fuss' in the new book.

Notorious incest kidnapper Fritzel was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009 for incest, rape, coercion, false imprisonment, enslavement and for the negligent homicide of one of his infant sons born as a result of sex with his own daughter.

In his macabre memoir, Die Abgrunde des Josef F (The Abysses Of Josef F) Fritzl expresses little remorse and is also slammed for being 'self-pitying.'

Despite his heinous crimes, Fritzl maintains that he still harbours dreams one day of living again with his wife Rosemarie, who he describes as 'the love of my life' and is even prepared for them to stay in separate bedrooms.

Josef Fritzl (pictured, right) still harbours dreams one day of living again with his wife Rosemarie (pictured, left)

Fritzl during a four-week-holiday in Pataya, Thailand, Jan 1, 1998, to Feb 3, 1998. Notorious incest kidnapper Fritzel was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009

Fritzl claims he locked up his daughter Elisabeth (pictured) for 24 years to save her from drugs. During this time, he admits that he submitted her to terrible abuse and she bore him seven children - one of whom died

The Austrian sex monster's new memoir, entitled Die Abgrunde des Josef F.. In it, he expresses little remorse and is also slammed for being 'self-pitying'

He also admits, 'I have so much to explain to her.'

Rosemarie, 82 and Fritzl, 87 married in 1956 and had three children. According to Austrian media, he divorced her in 2012 after she refused to visit him in prison, but this was not confirmed by authorities in the country.

In his book, Fritzl suggests that they are still married.

He writes: 'I always got along well with her. But we had very different spheres of life. I had my job, my travels, and of course my secret love affairs. I was always looking for adventure in some way. I guess I didn't appreciate her enough.

'I have so much to explain to her. They say that you should not only be at peace with yourself, but also with others before leaving this world.'

Astonishingly, Fritzl reveals that if he were ever to be released, he would like to live with Rosemarie.

He writes: 'Besides, I am still married to my wife. If I were released, I would like to be with her again. Live with her in a house, even with separate bedrooms.

'Of course, only if she still wants that, if she still believes in me. In any case, I am always here for her. I would be really pleased if you got in touch with her. As you can see, I am a loyal dog.'

In another extraordinary rant, Fritzl professes the virtues of family life, insisting: 'The parental home was the most important thing. Now days everything is completely different.

Reflecting on his crimes, Fritzl said in his memoir: 'At first it was just a mind game I played. But I got used to it'

MailOnline can also reveal that Fritzl has applied for a transfer from the Stein high-security facility, Austria's Broadmoor. Here, he is pictured at Fritzl pictured at Sankt Poelten Prison,Austria's most secure psychiatric jail

'The state interferes everywhere. This leads to nothing good. I can see it here, where I am now: Many of those who end up in prison come from broken homes, grew up in shelters.'

MailOnline can also reveal that Fritzl has applied for a transfer from the Stein high-security facility, Austria's Broadmoor, where he is held to a regular prison so that he can apply for parole.

His lawyer Astrid Wagner said: 'I have appointed a new psychiatric expert to evaluate my client, and I feel confident that he is going to be able to help ensure that my client gets transferred. And, when transferred, this means that he would later be eligible for parole, so this is very important.'

In the book, Fritzl urges his wife to visit him in prison so that they can clear the air.

He writes: 'Even though everything happened so long ago, my wife is still inside me. More than before. I guess you get more sensitive with age. I think a lot about how she feels about everything now. It would be nice if she came to visit me.

'I think it's time to talk about what happened. To make a clean sweep, so to say. We have been married for sixty-nine years now, you can't just erase that!'

Elisabeth disappeared in 1984 at the age of 18 after Fritzl rendered her unconscious with a rag soaked in ether and threw her into his makeshift, underground prison.

She would not reappear until April 26, 2008, when she was discovered in the clandestine cellar beneath the family home in Amstetten, Austria.

After the horrific ordeal came to light, there was widespread speculation about Rosemarie's involvement.

She was never charged, and police quickly cleared her after an interview in 2011.

It emerged that she was never allowed into the basement where Elisabeth was imprisoned and had no knowledge of her husband's crimes.

Rosemarie is now believed to be living in Linz, around 30 miles from Amstetten.

Fritzl wrote his book with the help of Ms Wagner, 59 who began visiting him at the Stein high-security facility.

The resulting book, written by her, is an account of her impressions, interspersed with Fritzl's own writings.

Inside Josef Fritzl's dungeon in Amstetten, Austria - years on. Elisabeth disappeared in 1984 at the age of 18 after Fritzl rendered her unconscious with a rag soaked in ether and threw her into his makeshift, underground prison

Fritzl reveals how he carefully prepared his underground prison in his shocking new memoir. Pictured is the inside of Fritzl's dungeon in Amstetten, Austria

Josef Fritzl, center, being escorted to a break during the second day of his trial at the provincial courthouse in St. Poelten, Austria, on Tuesday March 17, 2009

Fritzl fumes in his book that the media 'smeared' him with 'dirt' and referring to his trial, he writes: 'What a huge fuss! The car of the judicial guard I was in had to drive around the court- house a few times, because the whole place was blocked by the reporters' vehicles.'

He also claims that even after his conviction he continued to receive fan mail from female admirers.

He reveals: 'By far not everything happened as it was portrayed by the media. They made millions with my story yet smeared me with dirt. But although I was labelled the 'cellar monster', there were people who did not let themselves be deterred. I received hundreds of letters from all over the world, in which I was encouraged and offered support.'

Fritzl brags that he regularly received letters from one female admirer who wrote 'I kiss you every day,' but that he ended the 'relationship' because he still wanted to be with his wife.

Reflecting on his crimes, Fritzl said in his memoir: 'At first it was just a mind game I played. But I got used to it. The idea, which had previously seemed so absurd, so monstrous to me, took shape.

'One day I knew what I had to do. All that remained was to wait for the right opportunity. On that rainy Saturday morning the time had come. The thought had become action.'

Fritzl intricately set up his underground prison, which featured a heavy metal door hidden behind a shelf in his workroom.

Describing how 24 years of horrific crimes began, Fritzl said: 'The next morning, I filed a missing person report with the local gendarmerie.

'The officer carefully logged everything and declared: 'She's over 18 and can do whatever she wants.'''

Fritzl made Elisabeth write letters to her mother explaining that she needed time away from home, then posted them in faraway towns. He told neighbours she had run away to join a cult.

'It wasn't easy, because the thoughts of what I had done were constantly circling within me,' he said.

'I was constantly energised. There was no one I could confide in. I had to look ahead and continue on the path I had chosen.'

Fritzl visited his captive at least three times a week, bringing food and sometimes flowers, he says, for Elisabeth.

Yet he took long vacations to places like Thailand, leaving his victim to deal with power cuts, rats, overflowing sewage and rotting food in their underground prison.

He writes: 'When I was away, I pushed away all my problems. Also, my secret. Everything was far, far away. Otherwise, I would have gone crazy! Only sometimes when I was alone, gloomy thoughts haunted me. I immediately repressed them by distracting myself and thinking of something else...'

Large parts of his book focus on his sexual exploits while working as a travelling salesman for a Danish concrete manufacturer.

He claims to have fathered five children in India and had a son with a Ghanaian woman while in the country for work.

Fritzl, who changed his name to Mayrhoff six years ago, is now reportedly suffering from dementia. But Ms Wagner has claimed she saw no sign of illness and that he talks a lot about reuniting with his family.

She said: 'I can say that my client is really getting older  you can really notice it. He now repeatedly talks about dreaming of meeting up with his family again, and he wants them to come and visit him.'
Police have insisted there is no evidence of foul play, however, the friends and family of other victims suspect they were drugged and murdered

Hays-Clark was discovered four days after he was last seen alive, making him the fourth person to be pulled from the Austin lake in three months

Reegan Aparicio gazes out over the expanse of lake where long-term partner Chris Hays-Clark was found floating four days after he mysteriously vanished.

'Police insist there was no foul play,' the dental nurse tells DailyMail.com, her voice an animated mixture of anger, grief and frustration.

'Oh no, someone put him in there. I believe he was dead when he went in the water. We're getting nothing from the detectives. But honestly, I believe they know.'

Her sentiment is loudly echoed by others who have also tragically lost loved ones in the same location in just three months.

The stretch of water is Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas, where four men have been discovered floating and dead since mid-February  sparking frenzied speculation that a serial killer is on the loose in one of America's biggest post-Covid boom towns.

Christopher Hays-Clark, 30, was the fourth person to be pulled from Austin's Lady Bird Lake in three months after his body was discovered on April 15

Hays-Clark's longtime partner Reegan Aparicio believes foul play was involved in his mysterious death and disappearance, but claims law enforcement have provided little to no information on the investigation

Two weeks before Hays-Clark was found, the body of Jonathan Honey, 33, (left) was discovered in the lake. Dad-of two Cliff Axtell, 40, (center) was also found dead on March 5, and Jason John, 30, (right) on February 13

Hays-Clark, a 30-year-old father, was the latest victim to be pulled from the lake on April 15.

Before him, it was Jonathan Honey, 33, found on April 1, following dad-of two Cliff Axtell on March 5, and Jason John, 30, on February 13.

The Austin Police Department has issued a statement insisting there was no foul play in any of the deaths.

However, all four victims vanished in baffling, uncharacteristic but disturbingly similar circumstances  as did Martin Gutierrez, 25, who was found floating face down in the lake in 2018. Another four bodies have been pulled out in the past 10 months, but their identities have not been revealed.

Additionally, in 2019, Christian Pugh, 21, was found alive but severely injured, four years after 22-year-old Julio Santos, 22, was discovered dead in the man-made lake, which is part of the Colorado River that flows through the city.

Casting its shadow over the fear and uncertainty now escalating in downtown Austin is Rainey Street, the raucous bar and food truck zone 1.8 miles from the lake and from where at least two of the latest victims  and Gutierrez  wandered off in the early hours to their deaths.

Adding to night time unease around the unlit pathways bordering Lady Bird Lake is the ever present threat of crime.

Last week a submerged bullet riddle car was hauled from the lake at the Festival Beach boat ramp following reports of shots being fired at 2.30am and a vehicle going underwater.

Austin Police Lake and Patrol Dive Team retrieved it at 1pm on May 1, but found nobody inside.

A wooden cross with flowers has been placed on the banks of the lake near to where Hays-Clark's body was found

A total of eight bodies have been recovered from Lake Lady Bird in less than a year, sparking fears of a serial killer in the area

Local campaigners for greater safety in the area have cited the lack of lighting and security surveillance on the pathways near the lake

Investigators also found shell casings on the ramp. The location is less than three-quarters of a mile from Rainey Street.

Local campaigners for greater safety around the lake have cited the lack of lighting and security surveillance.

The chilling unsolved deaths have led true-crime fans and internet sleuths to go into overdrive with theories and speculation, with a private Facebook group called Lady Bird Lake Serial Killer gaining more than 85,000 members.

But according to Austin Police Chief Joseph Chacon: 'Nothing has come to light that would indicate that there is a serial killer in Austin.'

Rainey Street has a long-standing reputation for being an area where revelers are in danger of having their drinks spiked so they can be robbed  or worse.

The theories are flying thick and fast. The facts harder to piece together, which is compounding the grief for the families involved.

Hays-Clark, a cook, hadn't been to Rainey Street as far as Aparicio is aware  although she admits she doesn't know for sure.

The couple, Austin's Memorial High School sweethearts, had recently split and Chris was living with his mother, Christine.

On April 11 he told his mom he was heading out. That was the last Christine or any of his other loved ones saw of him.

Four days later, at around 1.30pm, walkers along a lakeside path spotted a floating body near Longhorn Dam.

'I don't believe Chris was near any bars, but no one has any idea what he was eventually doing down in the area of the lake,' Aparicio, 28, told DailyMail.com.

She stood alongside a small shrine she has constructed on the bank near where he was found. She was emotional, but clearly not a woman to crumble.

'It was a long way from his mom's place. He would never go down there normally. There's no surveillance footage, nothing. It is totally baffling.'

It all happened less than three-quarters of a mile from Rainey Street, a popular strip where several of the men who were pulled from the lake in the last year had last been seen. Lady Bird Lake is about 1.8 miles, or a 35-minute walk away from the street

Rainey Street is a vibrant area in Austin known for its night life and offerings of bars, food trucks and restaurants. Lady Bird Lake is about 1.8 miles, or 35-minute walk away from the street. There are no cameras around the lake

Aparicio, who shared 12-year-old son Lashawn with Chris, has been going to the same spot every day since her ex was found dead, desperately trying to look for clues and to reconstruct his final hours.

She is doing that because she believes Austin Police Department is failing her  and the families of the other lake victims.

'It's taken two weeks for a detective to even get back to me properly,' she said.

'I'd asked the police where is the investigation at and what's going on? And I'm just told it's pending and given very little else.

'They haven't told me the cause of death. I've asked, but nothing. Everything is still ''under investigation". I literally have no answers, only questions.

'That makes me angry, I feel upset and I feel like they can do more. I feel like there is more to be told and they are just not saying it.'

The mom continued: 'And it's strange to me that they say they are investigating, because I don't really see anything being done.

'I've been going to the lake every day since this happened. Just to look for my own, to see if there's anything significant, anyone about who might know something.

'I'm going to keep coming here until I find out what happened. I'm not going to give up on Chris, he deserves justice. Somebody should be able to give me that.

'My thing is the police are saying there's no foul play. And telling me it's not being investigated as a homicide because there are no real leads.

'Why? How is that even right? If you don't have the leads then get out there and find them. Do the work.

'If you don't have the staff to do it because you're so short-staffed that you can't even get back to a family that's been calling you for two weeks, then find somebody.

Christian Pugh, 21, was found alive in the lake back in 2019 but in 'rough' condition. He sustained a blow to the head and bruised hands

Other bodies previously found in the lake include 22-year-old Julio Santos (right) in 2015 and 25-year-old Martin Gutierrez in 2018. Martin was found with several injuries after landing in the lake following a night out at Rainey Street

'They shouldn't wash off the case because they don't have any answers or can't find anything.'

Clutching a photograph of Chris with baby Leshawn, Aparicio added: 'I don't understand what's so hard about them just telling us the truth? They have to know something.

'I think that somebody put him in here and I don't believe that he was alive at the time. And I don't believe that he was under the influence of any substance and that that made him drown. No way.

'I am devastated by this, very heartbroken. Chris was super sporty, a great swimmer. This wasn't an accident.'

The young mom did get one last look at Hays-Clark.

'He was in a body bag,' she said. 'I got him released from the medical examiner to a funeral home, where I had just two minutes with him. They unzipped the bag and I only saw his face before they zipped it back up.'

Friends and family of the first of the four latest victims also want more answers from the police.

Jason John  known as JJ  went missing from Rainey Street at about 2am on February 5 after celebrating with friends because he has been promoted in his sales job at an IT research company. His body turned up eight days later.

Originally from New York, he moved to Florida during Covid and settled in Austin in 2021.

'I believe JJ was drugged and from there a tragic accident happened or somebody non-violently assaulted him,' his one-time roommate in Austin, Josh Gale, told DailyMail.com.

'The early autopsy results show no evidence of defensive wounds, so it appears there wasn't a violent struggle. So I believe he could have been pushed enough to get him in the water, but not enough to leave a bruise.

Last week a submerged bullet-riddled car was hauled from the lake at the Festival Beach boat ramp following reports of shots being fired at 2.30am and a vehicle going underwater

A dive team returned a few hours later and pulled the vehicle from the lake. Police did not say if the submerged car was related to the reports of a shooting

Despite growing fears from residents, Austin police say they have not seen any evidence of a serial killer on the loose. Pictured: A car riddled with bullet holes was found in the lakelast week

'He was bar hopping and the group eventually came to Rainey Street where they went into two bars, the last one being La Cantina 512. Then he left without saying goodbye to anyone. And he was walking his normal route home to his apartment near the Colorado River and never made it.'

Referring to the other deaths, Gale, 32, said: 'For this to happen again and again and again with the same type of thing happening, where it is not happening in other places makes no sense to me.

'I don't know if every one of these is connected. The true pattern is, there are no answers. That is the pattern.'

He added: 'Do I think we have a Jeffrey Dahmer walking around Austin? No, I do not.

'But I do think we have in Austin a group of people who want to drug people so they can rob them. And I think some of the people they are drugging are getting away but falling into a tragic situation because they are under the influence of these drugs.'

Gale was also critical of Austin PD.

'We have four witnesses in JJ's case, not necessarily who saw every little thing. However, the police didn't interview a single one of them.

'If you want to consider suicide, you want to get the person's mindset. The police have not interviewed anyone who might help with that. They just say, accidental drowning and we'll wait for the toxicology report.'

Father-of-two Cliff Axtell, 40, who was a land specialist for a commercial property company, was last seen on March 5 at Stubb's Barbecue in downtown Austin, slightly farther away from Lady Bird Lake than Rainey Street. He married wife Meghan in 2016 and led worship at his local church.

Jonathan Honey was in Austin for a bachelor trip from his home in Washington DC when he vanished on the evening of Friday, March 31, after getting something to eat at a food truck in Rainey Street. His body was found the next day.

The tragic case of Martin Gutierrez, despite being more than four years ago, has eerie similarities to the recent cases. And his family is convinced he was drugged, stalked and killed.

He had enjoyed an evening meal in downtown Austin on November 19, 2018, with brother Mitch and his sister-in-law Whitney, both former ICU nurses. The married couple left and he continued on with friends, bar hopping in Rainey Street.

Lady Bird Lake  named for former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson  is a popular Austin destination for water activities, including kayaking

'They went to one bar and then went to Luster Pearl. According to his debit card records he only purchased one drink there. And then they moved on to another bar, Alibi,' Mitch told DailyMail.com.

'By the time my brother got to Alibi his behavior had completely changed. He was leaning on the bar, he was acting different like he was drugged. The bar tenders didn't even serve him a drink. This was about 1am.'

Martin, who lived with his brother and wife a 15 minute drive from downtown Austin, then slipped out of the bar unknown to his friends.

'According to the surveillance we've seen, Martin made his way down and went to this bar called Craft Pride,' said Mitch.

'He never went inside. But the surveillance shows him taking the corner and walking towards I35. Then the last surveillance we had was him near the Towers of Town Lake apartment complex, walking towards Lady Bird Lake.

'That's the last sighting of him alive. November 26 his body was recovered from the water, he was floating down the lake.

'There was an apartment complex that overlooks Lady Bird Lake from Riverside and someone went out for their morning coffee on their balcony and saw Martin floating face down and called 911.'

The family was told the cause of death was accidental drowning. They are skeptical to say the least.

'That's difficult to believe because my brother had a large contusion on the back of his head with bruising. Dead people don't bleed. I remember the cop saying, oh maybe he just fell off the bridge and hit his head when he was already in the water. I was like, you don't bleed if you're dead.

'So he was alive long enough to bleed and create a bruise. So I believe he was harmed and placed in the water. I do believe he was drugged and I do believe someone harmed him. By following him and killing him.'

DailyMail.com made a formal request for autopsy reports on the four latest lake victims to the Travis County Medical Examiner.

In each request, we were told they would not be ready for up to 120 days from the date of the examination. Austin PD responded to our request for an update on the inquiries, saying there was no further information.
It follows a novelist named Emma who's fictional witch Marianne becomes real once she returns to her hometown and terrorizes the town

The series originally aired in 2019 and only lasted one season, but it has recently been revived

Netflix's Marianne, a 2019 French horror series, has left even the toughest scary movie fans sleeping with the lights on

French horror series Marianne on Netflix has resurfaced to terrorize even the toughest horror fans, leaving them 'scared for their lives.'

The horror series was originally released in 2019 and only lasted one season, but it has recently been revitalized on the popular streaming platform and has left viewers shaking in their boots.

Those who watched it back then said it was the most horrifying thing they'd seen since The Conjuring.

The series follows a fictional famous horror writer named Emma who returns to her hometown, only to realize the demons she dreamt of as a child are now terrorizing the real world.

In the show, Emma has just finished her famous series about a witch named Marianne. With the conclusion of her book, she is hoping to put both horror and the nightmares that haunted her childhood behind her.

However, after announcing her retirement, her nightmares get worse and after an encounter with a childhood friend, she heads back to her hometown where she comes face-to-face with her demons - and Marianne.

Marianne can use her victims' fears and memories against them, leaving the viewer wondering how on earth they'll be able to escape her terror.

French horror series Marianne on Netflix has resurfaced to terrorize even the toughest horror fans, leaving them 'scared for their lives.'

In the show, Emma has just finished her famous series about a witch named Marianne (pictured). With the conclusion of her book, she is hoping to put horror behind her and the nightmares that have haunted her childhood

However, after announcing her retirement, her nightmares get worse and after an encounter with a childhood friend, she heads back to her hometown and when she gets there she has to come face-to-face with her demons

The terrifying series has left viewers afraid to going to the bathroom alone - with some even taking their pets with them.

Amy J wrote on Twitter: 'Marianne on Netflix is so freaking scary. Like I have to take Tinkerbell to the bathroom with me scary. For reals.'

Chad Homura wrote: 'Just finished watching Marianne on Netflix and it's the scariest thing I've ever watched in my whole f**king life.'

A woman Michelle wrote: 'This Marianne on Netflix is f**king scary af.'

'Not a movie but the scariest show/anything Ive ever seen in my life was Marianne on Netflix,' a Twitter user revealed.

Viewers quickly took to Twitter to discuss how the film was the 'scariest thing I've ever watched in my whole f**king life'

'Cant bring myself to watch Marianne alone, if u like horror, Marianne on Netflix is [okay],' one wrote.

David Mack wrote: 'Try Marianne on Netflix, its in French but pretty damn scary actually.'

The scary spectacle - which was written by Samuel Bodin and Quoc Dang Tran - dropped on Friday the 13th in 2019.

Upon first release, the series gained international popularity, but the show's creator said there wasn't a big enough fan base to pursue a second season.
Lagerfeld could have left the money to a caretaker, a foundation, or a nonprofit with stipulations that the money be used for Choupette's care

Karl Lagerfeld's cat Choupette was left $1.5million by the late designer, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 85, but it's not clear-cut how exactly the feline will get her paws on the massive inheritance.

It has become increasingly popular for the ultra-wealthy to leave behind millions to their beloved pets to be able to maintain their upper-class lifestyles after their owners pass away. However, the logistics of leaving loads of cash to a pet is a gray area.

Choupette is now richer than most people on the planet. Critics can imagine her dining on the most expensive bowl of kibble - if she even dares eats such a mundane pet food - in her Lucy Balu x Choupette designer bowls and sleeping on only the softest of beds.

As her Instagram already shows, she travels in style in a $250 Lucy Balu x Choupette carrier or a $2,000 Louis Vuitton carrier - a far cry from the $20 standard mesh carrier from Amazon - and flies on marvelous private jets.

She's even too cool for the Met Gala, with the feline seen opting for a midday nap at home rather than showing up at the exclusive event - although references to her were certainly in abundance.

So, how does a blue-cream tortie Birman cat inherit her millions?

Karl Lagerfeld's cat Choupette (pictured together in 2016) was left $1.5million by the late designer, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 85

Choupette was Lagerfeld's beloved cat and is one of many beneficiaries of his will

The simple answer...

She doesn't.

In France, where Choupette resides - as well as in the United States and the United Kingdom - pets are considered property, and therefore, cannot inherit a cent.

'In France you cannot name a pet as a beneficiary. In order for a beneficiary to receive an inheritance, it has to be a physical person or a foundation,' an international inherence lawyer, Valerie Duane-Dray, told CBS News in 2019.

However, there are still multiple ways one can leave behind money to ensure a pet's well-being. Although, it's unclear what method Lagerfeld chose.

So, how does a blue-cream tortie Birman cat inherit her millions? The simple answer...She doesn't

Drowning in legal paperwork, Choupette? In France, where Choupette resides - as well as in the US and UK - pets are considered property, and therefore, cannot inherit a cent

The most common method is to leave the money to the new caretaker, as an animal can be left to someone in the will.

Lagerfeld's cat also has her own source of income, including modeling work, collaborations like Lucy Balu, and she is the subject of two books, among other assets.

'She has her own little fortune,' Lagerfeld once said. 'She is an heiress. If something happens to me, the person who will take care of it will not be in misery.

'She's a rich girl!'

Lagerfeld could have also created a foundation which has the sole mission to care for little Choupette

However, in Germany - where Lagerfeld was born - one can leave money behind for an animal.

As her Instagram already shows, she travels in style a $2,000 Louis Vuitton carrier - a far cry from the $20 standard mesh carrier from Amazon - and flies on marvelous private jets, which her haters could only dream of

Choupette also has her own line of income, including collaboration for a $250 Lucy Balu x Choupette carrier (pictured)

The most common method to leave money for pets is to give it to a new caretaker, a foundation designed to care for the pet, or a nonprofit

Regardless of how Lagerfeld left the money for Choupette, the little kitty has been living the high life since his passing, although she often posts tributes to her father.

As last Monday's Met Gala was in honor of her father's designs and fashion career, Choupette revealed she had been invited to walk the red carpet in 'tribute to Daddy,' but she opted to a more cozy experience.

'We pay tribute to my Daddy every day since his parting and we are very moved to see one more day dedicated to him,' she wrote on Instagram.

In February, the feline honored the fourth anniversary of her father's 'hasty' departure by saying he will 'always' be in her heart.

'You are no longer where you were but you are still where I am...I miss you daddy,' she wrote.
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Stars from the worlds of politics and royalty were out in force at last night's Coronation Concert as they joined the newly-anointed King and Queen inside the Royal box.

Prime Minster Rishi Sunak and I'm A Celeb star Mike Tindall were among the VIPs treated to the best seats in the house at the star-studded spectacle, which featured performances from Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Take That.

The historic concert, presented by Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville, took place in the grounds of Windsor Castle and on the biggest stage ever built in Britain.

Naturally, a string of senior royals were seen front and centre in the box as they waved their Union Jack flags and swayed to the music, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Edward and Sophie and their children Lady Louise Windsor, 19, and James the Earl of Wessex, 15.

Around 20,000 jubilant spectators were also in the grounds to enjoy the show, while millions more watched from TV screens around the world.

Stars from the worlds of politics and royalty were out in force at last night's Coronation Concert as they joined the newly-anointed King and Queen inside the Royal box

Queen Camilla and King Charles were seen waving to spectators from the Royal box

King Charles III and Queen Camilla were joined on the front row by some of their closest family members, including Prince William and Princess Catherine of Wales and their children George, nine, and Charlotte, eight.

Unfortunately it was past the bedtime of the Wales's youngest son Prince Louis, five, who stayed at home.

Sitting next to Charles was the general secretariat of the Commonwealth Baroness Patricia Scotland, who brought her husband Richard Mawhinney.

They were joined in the box by other leaders from the community of nations, including Dame Susan Dougan, the Governor of St Vincent and the Grenadines.

As night fell, the royals donned their glowstick wristbands and got to their feet as they started dancing to Lionel and his classic hit All Night Long.

Charles and Camilla laughed and chatted as they bopped along, with Kate, Charlotte and George also getting into the groove.

Mother-of-three Princess Kate, 41, looked radiant in a striking red suit from one of her favourite British fashion brands, Alexander McQueen.

She sat with her children George and Charlotte, who after also stealing the show on Saturday with their adorable antics, put on a similarly animated display at the star-studded concert.

The duo appeared to be having a whale of a time within moments of the event kicking off, as they danced and jigged along to the songs being played including Katy Perry's Roar.

Princess Kate, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, Prince William, Queen Camilla and King Charles were in the front row of the Royal box

Princess Kate and Princess Charlotte seen in the Royal Box at the Coronation concert

Prince George and his father Prince William appeared to be sharing a joke, alongside Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty

However Princess Charlotte, eight, who took little brother Prince Louis under her wing at yesterday's Coronation, didn't appear too keen on Pete Tong's 'Ibiza classics'.

It comes amidst a busy weekend for the little royals, who all played a starring role in the Coronation on Saturday to watch their grandfather be crowned King.

Also there was Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, who divorced in 1996 but have remained close and put on a friendly display at the Coronation concert together.

Sarah, known to many as Fergie, marked the moment on Instagram, sharing a sweet snap of the royal couple from the day's celebrations.

Their daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie also attended the historic event, being held on the castles East Lawn, with their husbands Edo Mapelli Mozzi and Jack Brooksbank.

Prince Andrew was seen in the Royal box with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson

BBC Director-General Tim Davie was seen speaking to Mike Tindall before the Coronation concert got underway

Peter Phillips and Lindsay Wallace with Peter's two daughters Isla and Savannah in front of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh

Akshata Murty, Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, Baroness Scotland of Asthal and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in the Royal Box. Ms Murthy later got excited, waving her flag

Also in attendance was the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Princess Sophie and their daughter Lady Louise Windsor, 19, who is at university student at St Andrew's.

James, Earl of Wessex, 15, who rarely makes public appearances, also looked smart in a black suit which he paired with a white shirt and a burgundy tie.

The couple had attended the final rehearsal of a choir specially assembled by celebrity choirmaster Gareth Malone earlier in the day, during which the duke cracked a joke to the 300-strong band.

The Princess Royal's son Peter Phillips and his partner Lindsay Wallace were also seen taking their seats.

Princess Anne's son, 45, looked relaxed as he arrived at the concert with his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace and his two daughters Savannah, 12, and Isla, 11 .

Princess Anne's daughter Zara Tindall was also seen in the royal box with her husband, I'm a Celebrity star Mike Tindall, speaking to the BBC director-general Tim Davie.

Princess Anne's son Peter Phillips, 45, looked relaxed as he arrived at the concert with his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace and his two daughters Savannah, 12, and Isla, 11. In front was the Duchess of Edinburgh, James, Earl of Wessex, 15, Lady Louise Windsor, 19, and Prince Edward

The Duchess of Edinburgh Princess Sophie wore a striking red dress for the Coronation concert

The Duchess of York Sarah Fergus and her daughter Princess Beatrice in the Royal box

Mother-of-three Zara, 41, who is the King's niece, looked stunning in green as she arrived at the concert this evening, arm-in-arm with her husband Mike.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was seen enjoying festivities with his wife Akshata Murthy, while the Leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer was also seen soaking up the celebratory atmosphere with partner Victoria.

Other political heavyweights that were invited in the royal box were Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hole, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Oliver Dowden and the Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland seen with Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty in the Royal Box

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Oliver Dowden speaking to his wife Blythe Dowden

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle were also among attendees

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was also watching the festivities from the Royal Box at the Coronation Concert on Saturday night

The King and Queen were seen arriving for the Coronation Concert just after 8pm and immediately got in the spirit by waving the Union Flag as the show began.

Charles III and his wife Camilla walked into the royal box to roars from the 20,000-strong crowd who did three cheers for the couple who waved and grinned back as the sun set over Windsor Castle.

Stars including Nicole Scherzinger and Amanda Holden were also in place for the spectacular show on a Union Flag-shaped stage where pop icons including Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Take That will performed.

More than 20,000 people attended the show, which was hosted by Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville.

Nicole Scherzinger said she felt like a Disney princess when she was rehearsing her song for the Coronation Concert.

The Duke of Edinburgh, Lady Louise Windsor and the Duchess of Edinburgh at the Coronation Concert

Kate, Charlotte and George join in the fun - but Louis is already tucked up in bed, with Eugenie behind

Catherine, Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte of Wales, Prince George of Wales and Prince William, Prince of Wales

Zara Tindall and Mike Tindall wave to the crowds

The Pussycat Dolls frontwoman performed a rendition of Reflection, which was written and produced for Disney's 1998 animated film Mulan.

Ms Scherzinger said backstage ahead of the event that she felt 'overjoyed' and 'honoured' to take the stage.

'Now that I'm here, it just feels really surreal. Being on the ground and having Windsor Castle as your backdrop is the dream,' she added.

The concert was considered by many to be a crowning touch on the magnificent weekend, after joyous big lunch celebrations today and a surprise walkabout by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Princess Kate, Princess Charlotte and Prince George were seen in the front row of the royal box, with Princess Eugenie behind

The Coronation concert was attended by 20,000 spectators and was held in the grounds of Windsor Castle

During the celebrations, Prince William paid a moving tribute to his father, telling him: 'Pa, we are all so proud of you.'

He also told King Charles that he had no doubt the late Queen Elizabeth, his 'very proud mother', would be 'fondly' looking down from heaven.

William delivered his emotional address from Windsor Castle as the nation celebrated the crowning of King Charles and Queen Camilla with the official Coronation Concert, a glorious mix of music, dance and the spoken word.

Set on a spectacular stage shaped like a multi-tier Union flag, it was an unashamedly patriotic highlight of a long weekend of celebrations.

Events to mark Saturday's Coronation will culminate today with a 'day of service' dubbed the Big Help Out as senior royals join volunteers around the country.
Millions of Aussies to save up to $500 on their energy bills

Millions of Aussies will save up to $500 on their power bill under the government's electricity relief package - but not everyone will be eligible for the scheme.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers says the handout will be a focal point of the budget, which is to be handed down by the Albanese government in Parliament on Tuesday.

The $1.5billion relief package from the federal government will assist households when it's rolled out towards the second half of the year.

This amount will be matched by the states, bringing the total savings to $3billion.

Pensioners and recipients of government handouts will see the biggest cuts, but an established income threshold means many households will also miss out.

Daily Mail Australia has compiled a list of Australians who are set to benefit from the scheme.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers (pictured) says the government's electricity bill relief handout will be a focal point of the budget

WINNERS

Aged pensioners, commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders, small businesses and welfare recipients will be the biggest beneficiaries of the scheme.

For families, households that receive income support under Family Tax Benefit A and B will also be targets of the handout.

More than five-and-a-half million households and one million businesses are set to receive up to $500 in relief in total.

'In most states and territories the retailers will take it off your bill. For most people it's in the third quarter of the bill,' Dr Chalmers confirmed to News.com.au.

'This is all about taking some of the sting out of higher electricity prices.'

The amount households and businesses save will be dependent on where you live.

'It'll be different around the country, we've struck eight different deals with different jurisdictions,' Dr Chalmers added.

Aged pensioners, commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders, small businesses and welfare recipients will be the biggest winners of the scheme (stock image)

LOSERS

Single workers and families earning more than six-figure incomes are the cohorts most likely to miss out on cuts to their bills.

The government has established income threshold limits for families dependent on the number of children in a household and their respective ages.

This is determined by whether a household qualifies for family tax benefits.

For families with one child, the cut off is a combined income of more than $108,000.

The threshold is raised slightly to $114,000 for families with two children aged zero to 12 or one child aged zero to 12 and one aged 13-19 in secondary study.

The cut off is $117,000 for families with two children aged 13-19 in secondary study.

This is increased when there are three or more children in a household.

Families with three teenagers in secondary study can have a combined income of up to $140,000 before they become ineligible for the handout.

Households with four children will have a cut off between $147,000 to $157,000 - depending on the ages of the children.

Further details about the edibility criteria for the government's electricity relief handout will be revealed when the budget is handed down on Tuesday.
The heartbroken family of the Australian lost overboard from an Hawaiian cruise ship have blasted doctors who allegedly abandoned him when crippling migraines shattered his mental health.

Warwick Tollemache, 35, from Brisbane, was lost at sea after vanishing late at night from the Quantum of the Seas, 1400km south of Hawaii, on April 25.

His devastated relatives have told Daily Mail Australia of the 'playful, cheeky, good-humoured, and extremely kind-hearted person' they knew and loved.

'He always had a radiant smile,' his family told Daily Mail Australia in a loving tribute published in full below.

'He had an incredible gift for spreading kindness, love, and compassion wherever he went. He touched the lives of countless people with his generosity and deep empathy.'

But they blasted Queensland Health for allegedly failing him in his lengthy battle to get help for the blinding headaches which plagued the 'brilliant' academic.

The family of Warwick Tollemache (pictured) have blasted doctors who allegedly abandoned him when crippling migraines shattered his mental health before he was lost at sea on a cruise

Warwick Tollemache, 35, from Brisbane, (pictured with partner Celine La Roche) fell overboard from his Hawaii-bound cruise ship late at night 1400km south of Hawaii, on April 25

Warwick Tollemache plunged into the Pacific Ocean from the Quantum of the Seas (pictured) around 11pm and the ship circled for more than two hours trying to find him in the dark

He already had two degrees, in business and then exercise science, and had won several prestigious awards for academic excellence during his studies.

But his dreams of becoming a doctor or a physiotherapist were dashed by the onset of the migraines and he was unable to get the treatment he needed, say his family.

Tortured by intense pain, Mr Tollemache would often try to self-medicate with alcohol, until the agonising misery began to test his sanity, they revealed.

'His life took a devastating turn, developing severe, chronic, and debilitating migraines that affected him daily,' said his family, through his sister Sarah.

'Warwick sought help from both public and private healthcare systems but was repeatedly turned away and refused treatment or dignity.

'This lack of care led to self-medication with alcohol at times and eventually to mental illness.'

Brisbane man Warwick Tollemache (pictured right) was tortured by crippling migraines which took its toll on his mental health but was unable to get the help he needed, say his family

Quantum of the Seas crew gave up its search (pictured) around 1.30am on April 26 ahead of an air-sea search by the US Coast Guard which started at dawn but was called off the next day

QUANTUM OF THE SEAS CRUISE SHIP TRAGEDY TIMELINE April 12: The Quantum of the Seas cruise ship departs Brisbane bound for Honolulu, Hawaii with a stopover at Tahiti. April 25, 11pm (local time): An Australian man falls overboard from the cruise ship into the Pacific Ocean, 1400km south of the Hawaii. The ship comes to an abrupt halt as a desperate late night search is launch April 26, 1.30am (local time): The Quantum of the Seas continues on its voyage as the US Coast Guard launches an extensive air and sea search. April 26 (local time): The US Coast Guard spends the day scouring the ocean. Massive swells overnight made the search 'almost impossible'. An C-130 Hercules aircraft completed five searches over the course of six hours as a radio call-out was issued to all vessels in the Pacific Ocean south of Hawaii to keep a lookout for the missing man. April 27 local time/April 28 AM AEST: The US Coast Guard suspends the search for the missing man overboard following discussions with the man's family, the Australian consulate and other authorities. The man is later identified as Brisbane man Warwick Tollemache, 35, in a heartbreaking statement from his family. Advertisement

They say medics refused to help when he pleaded with them for relief from his agony.

'On countless occasions, Warwick was made to wait for 12-plus hours in the waiting room of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, only to never be seen by a doctor,' said his family.

'The rare times he was seen by a doctor, despite Warwick and his family begging for help, he was turned away.

'Warwick, who found joy and purpose in helping others, was treated with a complete lack of humanity, respect, care, and compassion.

'This culture of neglect and disregard for patients' dignity within Metro South Health is dehumanising, and it is shameful that Warwick was a victim of such systemic failure.'

His family said Mr Tollemache tried to remain positive, even trying to help others where he could, despite the pain he was suffering himself.

And his relatives did what they could to ease his agony outside of the support of the health system.

'His family spent countless days and months trying to provide an inpatient level of care at home, which should have been provided by the public and private hospitals that failed him,' they added.

'The family is seeking answers from Metro South Health.'

Mr Tollemache had boarded his cruise ship at Brisbane on April 12 for the voyage to Honolulu, with a stopover in Tahiti, before the tragedy unfolded.

The alert that he had fallen overboard was sounded at 11pm on April 25 and the ship circled in the dark for two and half hours searching in vain for him.

The ship resumed its voyage at 1.30am on April 26 before an air-sea search was launched at dawn by the US Coast Guard, but massive sea swells hampered the hunt.

On April 27, the decision was finally made to call off the search after no trace of him was spotted in the sea.

Warwick Tollemache had boarded his cruise ship at Brisbane on April 12 for the voyage to Honolulu, with a stopover in Tahiti, before the tragedy unfolded south of Hawaii

Warwick Tollemache's family claim he was often made to wait more 12 hours at Princess Alexandra Hospital (pictured) without seeing a doctor about his agonising migraines

The family of Warwick Tollemache (pictured with partner Celine La Roche) say they are now seeking answers from Metro South Health over his treatment

'Warwick's ultimate goal was to make the world a better place and to spread love and kindness, and this is his greatest legacy,' said his family.

'One of the fondest memories that Warwick and his sister Sarah share together is one of the days they spent doing random acts of kindness; one of Warwick's favourite pastimes.

'They bought flowers for strangers, paid for groceries for others, and spent the day giving compliments and generous tips to strangers. It was a testament to Warwick's character that he was happiest when spreading love and positivity.

'The Tollemache family is working to ensure that his legacy continues, and his friends and community are already supporting this effort.'

A spokesman for Metro South Health said the service 'offers condolences to the family for the loss of their loved one.'

They added: 'Mental health conditions are complex and crises can stem from a number of triggers.

'Help is available for anyone having suicidal thoughts by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14 or patients of our service within the Metro South Health catchment have access to 1300 MH CALL.'
Iconic barbecue mirrors China's post-pandemic vitality

Xinhua) 13:42, May 08, 2023

ZIBO, Shandong, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Some say it is just a publicity campaign, a fanfare backed by gluttons, influencers and investors. So what? The iconic barbecue in this old industrial city with 4.7 million residents has drawn flocks of foodies, sparking an economic boom as well as much-awaited post-pandemic excitement.

Some 450 km southeast of China's capital Beijing, Zibo is easily accessible by car or by train. A ride on a high-speed train from Beijing takes three hours at most, and costs 230 yuan (33 U.S. dollars).

Tourists enjoy a local barbecue meal in Zibo, east China's Shandong Province, April 29, 2023. (Photo by Zhu Wei/Xinhua)

"It's been a rewarding experience: the food is delicious and affordable," said He Xin, a university student from the neighboring city of Weifang. For less than 100 yuan, even a gluttonous man can eat to his heart's content at any barbecue restaurant in Zibo, satiated with a rich variety of grilled meat and fresh vegetables in a wrap.

"Unlike the majority of Chinese restaurants, the food here is served half raw, and the diners are encouraged to grill it on a stove set on each table," said He.

Behind the tasty food and phenomenal popularity of Zibo are the Chinese people's post-pandemic euphoria, as well as the strong vitality and resilience in a loving society.

The feast, which became popular among university students across China early this year, has propelled Zibo to internet stardom and offered nationwide food lovers another popular destination for the first spring break after the country optimized its COVID-19 response measures.

During the five-day May Day holiday, the city received thousands of tourist visits, and tourism orders, including hotels and major tourist destinations, saw a formidable year-on-year surge of 2,000 percent, according to figures released by the local culture and tourism bureau.

This photo taken on April 11, 2023 shows a Zibo-style barbecue cuisine, which features grilled meat and green onion wrapped in a pancake, in Zibo, east China's Shandong Province. (Photo by Liu Yiming/Xinhua)

A CITY OF LOVE

Recognizing that downtown hotels were fully booked and anticipating that the influx of tourists would exceed the city's accommodation capacity, the local culture and tourism bureau issued an open letter on April 26th. The letter encouraged holiday planners who were eagerly seeking hotel rooms to consider postponing their trips.

Li Yucheng, a new graduate who secured a job at a new material company in Zibo last year, however, cleaned up an extra bedroom in his apartment and offered it as free lodging to tourists who had not been able to book a hotel room.

Li told Xinhua that he had been motivated by other local residents who had offered a helping hand to tourists.

"I was out for a walk and saw long queues outside every barbecue restaurant, waiting for tables. Someone was there offering them free drinks," he said. "Some private car owners offered free lifts to tourists at night when there were not enough taxis around."

"Practically everyone is working to polish the city's image by doing their own work well and helping the tourists as much as they can," said Zhang Peng, a volunteer.

A new resident in Zibo, Li Yucheng said it is "a city of love". "That's what touched me when I first came here, and I would pass on this love to others."

A native of the northeastern Jilin Province, more than 1,300 km from Zibo, Li said it was a pleasant surprise to find dishes of his hometown at the company's cafeteria. That eased his homesickness and he fell in love with this city.

A volunteer guides the way for tourists driving on their own in Zibo, east China's Shandong Province, April 29, 2023. (Photo by Huangpu Xiaowen/Xinhua)

Zibo has welcomed at least 100,000 new graduates who choose to work and live here in the last three years and plans to recruit another 200,000 in the five years from 2022 to 2027.

These efforts are widely expected to reverse the city's brain drain that began at the turn of the century, when the ancient pottery and glass production base and cradle of China's modern industries faced bottlenecks in growth due to pollution and a scarcity of resources.

These days, the city has welcomed avid barbecue diners with the same hospitality: two hours of free parking at the major train station, opening-up of car parks and bathrooms at 207 local government facilities to May Day tourists for free.

Its efforts have paid off, as tourists heaped praises on Zibo on the web after their visit. "Hospitality and helping hands are the most beautiful landscape a tourist can expect." "The ambiance is more important than the food itself."

STRONG VITALITY

Barbecue restaurants have fueled Zibo's economic growth and boosted its vitality. Incomplete statistics show the city has more than 3,000 barbecue restaurants. At least 370 new restaurants opened last month.

The sizzling feast, the huge crowds of diners, as well as subsequent consumption rises and increasing job opportunities are all signs of strong vitality and growth momentum.

The Chinese people made 274 million domestic trips during the five-day break that began on April 29, soaring 70.83 percent from the same holiday period last year, and 19.09 percent more than 2019, before the COVID-19 outbreak, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said.

Tourism revenue reached about 148.06 billion yuan, surging 128.9 percent from last year, according to the ministry.

The booming travel rush, along with China's promising economic performance, has improved expectations of multiple institutions.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said that a robust rebound means China is set to account for around one-third of global growth in 2023 -- giving a welcome lift to the world economy.

Meanwhile, World Bank Group President David Malpass announced earlier in April that the lender has raised its global growth forecast for 2023 to 2 percent from 1.7 percent in January due to China's recovery.

Luo Zhiheng, chief economist at Yuekai Securities, estimated that the economy is expected to achieve fast growth in the second quarter, with a GDP growth of more than 7 percent year on year.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Chey Chang-won, right, vice chairman of SK discovery, parent company of SK bioscience, poses with MSD Executive Vice President Sanat Chattopadhyay, left, and Vice Minister of Health and Welfare Park Min-soo in Seoul after signing a manufacturing agreement in this photo provided by SK bioscience, Monday. Courtesy of SK bioscience



By Baek Byung-yeul



SK bioscience, a local vaccine developer and manufacturer, signed a contract manufacturing organization (CMO) agreement with global healthcare company MSD for the production of its next-generation Zaire Ebola vaccine, according to the company, Monday.



MSD has been working with Hilleman Laboratories, an international nonprofit research organization, to develop a next-generation Zaire Ebola vaccine candidate. They are improving process efficiency and thermal stability of ERVEBO, the currently approved and in-use Zaire Ebola vaccine.



If the candidate is successfully developed and approved by regulatory authorities, it will be produced by SK bioscience's L House vaccine plant in Andong, North Gyeongsang Province, and supplied to international organizations to be used in Ebola management, SK bioscience said.



Ebola virus disease, also known simply as EVD, is a rapidly progressive hemorrhagic fever disease. Six Ebola viruses have been identified, but the Zaire Ebola virus has been the primary cause of outbreaks over the past 20 years. Ebola has caused several outbreaks since it was first identified in 1976 and has caused significant human and economic damage.



Chey Chang-won, vice chairman of SK discovery, a parent company of SK bioscience, said the agreement is a great opportunity for SK bioscience to contribute to the fight against disease.



"This collaboration is a testament to SK bioscience's manufacturing capabilities and global network, which have been recognized through COVID-19, and marks an important milestone in our efforts to contribute to improving human health," Chey said.



"MSD is committed to finding innovative solutions to improve access to vaccines for people around the world, such as this collaboration with Hilleman Laboratories and SK bioscience, to make them more readily available," MSD Executive Vice President Sanat Chattopadhyay said.



With this agreement, SK bioscience plans to expand its capabilities in vaccine development and production to respond quickly to new pandemics. In addition to existing vaccine platforms, the company plans to secure new platforms such as mRNA and cell and gene therapy (CGT).



To this end, the company is expanding its production infrastructure. SK bioscience plans to increase its production capacity through a large-scale expansion of its vaccine production facility Andong L House as well as a new site of 99,130 square meters nearby.


Anti-vaccine trolls have been branded 'opportunistic scum' after they hijacked the tragic death of Jock Zonfrillo to falsely claim he had died from the Covid-19 jab.

Within hours of the Masterchef host's tragic death in Melbourne on May 1, conspiracy theorists began to claim the vaccine had killed the celebrity chef.

The world-renowned chef died at the age of 46 from natural causes, with no suspicious circumstances, after having secretly fought bowel cancer for years.

He had also battled drug addiction in his youth and later suffered from mental health issues and anxiety.

But anti-vaxxers falsely claimed the sudden death - on the day of MasterChef's new season launch - must be linked to the Scots-born chef being fully vaccinated against Covid.

Anti-vaccine trolls have been branded 'opportunistic scum' after they ambushed the tragic death of Jock Zonfrillo (pictured) to falsely claim he had died from the Covid-19 jab

Sources told Daily Mail Australia Jock Zonfrillo's wife Lauren (pictured with Jock and their children Isla and Alfie) raised the alarm from Italy after she had been unable to get hold of him

'Pretty sure they could put this to rest by saying he wasnt death jabbed, but he likely was, since they wont,' tweeted an anti-vaxxer.

'Being in denial doesnt help anyone, the death jab is just that'

Another posted: 'He didnt take his life like legacy media tried to portray, and the rest of this headline says he might have been battling cancer. Might.

'He was fully vaxxed and died suddenly. These are indisputable facts. Rip.'

One added: 'We're not saying HOW he died in our news reports so we're going to stack it full of conjecture - ie likely killed 12,000 in excess mortality.

'MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo DIES SUDDENLY just like every Healthy Young Person right?'

But the sick claims have been slammed by fans of the show and said those closest to chef are incensed by the 'disgusting and fake rumour'.

Conspiracy theorists jumped on the sudden death of Jock Zonfrillo to claim it was related to the Covid vaccine but they were swiftly attacked by others online (pictured)

'Of course the putrid cookers [conspiracy theorists] have already come out saying it was the covid vaccine that killed Jock Zonfrillo,' posted one.

'They really are opportunistic scum. RIP Jock.'

Another added: 'WTAF is wrong with RWNJs speculating what Jock Zonfrillo died from. Blaming it on Covid vax. And if it was suicide, because of lockdowns.

'Not everythings a f***ing conspiracy. Let the family mourn.'

Another said the twisted theory had incensed the chef's friends and family.

'Many of his friends are enraged that educated people who do their own research are even suggesting it was caused by the Covid mRNA gene altering injection,' said one.

Police were called to Zonfrillo's Carlton hotel Zagame's House on Lygon Street in the early hours of May 1 for a welfare check over concerns for the star.

Well-placed sources have told Daily Mail Australia Zonfrillo's wife Lauren had raised the alarm from Italy after she had been unable to get hold of him.

The chef had been in Rome with his family to start a new life in Europe and had only flown back to Australia for the new season debut of Masterchef, with its theme of Secrets and Surprises.

Police at the scene found Zonfrillo dead in his bed with no sign of anything suspicious or unusual.

There was no drug paraphernalia located, no one else in the room and police believe the father-of-four, including two adult children from his previous marriages, died of natural causes.

Daily Mail Australia previously revealed the Zonfrillo had been diagnosed with bowel cancer about May 2021, after an earlier bout went into remission in 2016.

It is not suggested the cancer killed Zonfrillo, only that he had told friends its return was detected after a routine colonoscopy.

A close friend and former neighbour of Zonfrillo told Daily Mail Australia the chef sometimes opened up to him about his 'demons' over a glass of whisky.

Stuart Ayer said he and his wife struck up a close relationship with the TV star's family during the three years they were next-door neighbours in Carlton.

Speaking about Zonfrillo's relationship with his wife, Mr Ayer said 'they were a really solid couple'.

'The kids were the light of his life,' he said. 'They're great kids and it's such a tragedy.'

Daily Mail Australia has been told Zonfrillo had been receiving treatment for bowel cancer from at least June 2021, a month after it was detected in a colonoscopy.

A source said at the time: 'No one in his circle is aware of what he is going through. Neither colleagues or friends.'

'He has not wanted anyone to know as he deals with this tough journey. He is coping poorly with chemo treatment, and the effects it is having.'

In the months that followed, Zonfrillo was an out-patient at Kinghorn Cancer Centre in Sydney and Epworth Oncology in Melbourne as well as treatment in Queensland, the source said.

Zonfrillo underwent chemotherapy while filming his second series of Celebrity MasterChef in 2021.

Jock Zonfrillo (right, with Masterchef co-hosts Melissa Leong, left, and Andy Allen) had been in Rome with his family to start a new life in Europe and had only flown back to Australia for the new season debut of Masterchef, with its theme of Secrets and Surprises

Jock Zonfrillo (pictured) had been secretly battling bowel cancer in 2021 after it returned, having gone into remission from a previous bout in 2016

Daily Mail Australia, which has seen evidence of Zonfrillo discussing the diagnosis with a close friend, contacted the chef and members of his family in August 2021 but received no response.

Another source said Zonfrillo had been avoiding hospital and was instead being attended by a doctor who was flown in to treat him.

'He claimed that each time he was getting any medical treatment there was a barrage of nurses that keep coming into his room, and he didn't want to be impolite by asking to be left alone,' the source said.

A source said Zonfrillo kept his health problems from most friends and colleagues, usually receiving treatment including chemotherapy when the hit cooking show was not filming.

In his 2021 memoir Last Shot he did not mention suffering from cancer, but did discuss his years of heroin addiction as a young man in Glasgow.

An autopsy will now be conducted to determine the celebrity chefs cause of death.

Masterchef finally launched the new season on Sunday night after it was delayed six days by the tragedy.
Shocking footage has shown the moment Met Police officers shot dead two 'dangerously out of control' dogs that mauled a woman.

Videos posted on social media by horrified witnesses show a group of police officers following a man with two barking dogs on short leads along a canal in Limehouse, east London.

Officers were seen in a heated row with the man as he continued to hold on to his dogs and attempt to calm them down.

The situation quickly became escalated with one of the black dogs being shot dead, while the screaming owner was then tasered and pinned to the ground.

The second dog was subsequently shot dead as screaming witnesses looked down at the scene from balconies of surrounding flat blocks.

The London police force defended its actions explaining that the officers had 'a duty to act where necessary before any further injury was caused'.

Shocking footage has revealed the moment a group of Met police officers shot dead two 'dangerously out of control' dogs

In the video the man who had the two dogs on short leads is also tasered as horrified witnesses scream in the background

Footage posted online showed the moment the group of Met police officers approached the man and the two dogs, before shooting dead the animals and tasering the man

One woman, filming from a window on the opposite side of the canal, can be heard repeatedly saying 'oh my god' before shouting 'are you okay' to the man after gunshots were fired.

The chaotic scene saw groups of people head out to their balconies and rooftops to see what was causing the commotion.

The Met said they were forced to act swiftly because 'the aggressive behaviour of two dogs was of considerable concern'.

Officers had been called to the scene following reports of a woman being attacked by the dog on Commercial Road in Tower Hamlets.

The dogs were said to be 'of considerable concern' and posed a 'significant threat to' officers who attended the scene.

No one was taken to hospital as a result of the attack, but a man was arrested in connection with having a dangerously out of control dog.

A 25-year-old woman who witnessed the situation unfold told the Mirror: 'It didn't seem proportionate. It is beyond belief.

'It was so shocking. I didn't realise it was a proper gun until the dogs were just lying completely out on the ground. There was blood coming out of them.

The force has defended its actions explaining that the officers had 'a duty to act where necessary before any further injury was caused'

Officers were called to the scene in Limehouse, east London, on Sunday after a woman was attacked on nearby Commercial Road

'I've never seen anything like that. You hear of these things happening in America but not here. Whatever had happened, it's not an excuse for it to end like that.'

In a statement, the Met said: 'Police were called just after 5pm on Sunday May 7 to a woman being attacked by a dog in Commercial Road, E14.

'Officers attended the location where the aggressive behaviour of two dogs was of considerable concern and posed a significant threat to them.

'A man was arrested in connection with the incident for having a dog dangerously out of control and assault offences. He has been taken into police custody.

'A Taser was discharged by police.'

The statement continued: 'No person was taken to hospital.

'Both dogs were destroyed by police at the scene.

'This is never an easy decision for any officer to take, but police have a duty to act where necessary before any further injury is caused.

'The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards will review the circumstances of the incident.'

MailOnline has contacted the Met Police for further comment.
A notoriously liberal Catholic church in Manhattan is dividing parishioners with a 'God is Trans' art exhibit, leaving one member of the faithful to suggest they were having an agenda forced on them.

The Church of St. Paul the Apostle in Manhattan is promoting a display called 'God is Trans: A Queer Spiritual Journey.'

The church is noted for its embrace of the LGBTQ+ community and has promoted a 'gay-friendly' 5 p.m. mass on Sunday in the past, according to the New York Times.

Some who regularly go to the church told the New York Post that including gender ideology in an exhibit was a step too far.

'The church should not be promoting this,' said one parishioner. 'I understand there are transgender people. I pray for all people but enough is enough.'

The church is noted for its embrace of the LGBTQ+ community and has promoted a 'gay-friendly' 5 p.m. mass on Sunday in the past

The churchgoer added that a priest refused to provide an explanation to someone questioning the display.

'It seems like they are trying to force the agenda on others,' they said. 'You can't put this out on the altar and then hide. That's what gets the church in trouble.'

Artist Adah Unachukwu created the exhibit which attempts to show how faith and gender identity intersect.

'God is Trans maps the queer spiritual journey by three significant points: Sacrifice, Identity and Communion,' the piece begins.

In sacrifice, parishioners are asked to 'shed an old life and personhood in order to be able to focus on your spiritual need. There is no devil, just past selves.'

'Identity is the most impactful part of the exhibition,' the display states. 'What does holiness look like? What does your god look like? Are those two portrayals that can be merged?'

It ends with Communion which 'rounds out the spiritual journey, by placing God and the mortal on the same plane to speak to one another. This part of the installation is about a spiritual home and the ways we can achieve this home in our everyday lives.'

The paintings are somewhat abstract but appear to show off where the personal meet the spiritual, as people young and old are portrayed as meshing with traditional holy imagery.

Church of St. Paul the Apostle is known as an ultra-liberal Catholic church in Midtown Manhattan

The parish has, in the past, clashed with Cardinal Dolan of the Archdiocese of New York when go against Vatican teachings on the LGBTQ+ community

Some who regularly go to the church said that including gender ideology in an exhibit was a step too far

The Roman Catholic Church opposes gender ideology but leaves room for each parish to have its own opinion of the transgender community.

The parish has, in the past, clashed with Cardinal Dolan of the Archdiocese of New York when go against Vatican teachings on the LGBTQ+ community.

The Archdiocese of New York and Unachukwu have not responded to requests for comment.

While one churchgoer was against the display, Cherri Ghosh, 80, had a completely different view of the exhibit.

'I don't understand the art, but this church is very liberal, which is why I love this church,' she told the Post. 'They are really in the present when others are not.'
A single mom has recounted how she horrifyingly stumbled across a horde of snakes living in the foundation of her new home.

Amber Hall made the shocking discovery last month, days after moving into the four-bedroom, two-bath behemoth in Colorado with her two kids.

The home is set on a scenic, tree-lined street in Centennial, centrally located among some of of Denver's most affluent suburbs, to the city's south.

Hall, 42, says spent her entire adult life working to afford the dream domicile - and was over the moon when she and her children moved in back in April.

However, that changed when the mom-of-two came across the school of scaly reptiles slithering in her walls and underneath her patio.

Moreover, the realtor who sold her the house has since gone AWOL, forcing her to personally fork over thousands of dollars for professional help - who are telling her the infestation is now more serious than once thought.

Scroll down for video:

A single mom has recounted how she horrifyingly stumbled across a horde of snakes living in the foundation of her new home - purchased last month in an affluent suburb of Colorado

Amber Hall recounted how made the shocking discovery last month, days after moving into her dream home with her two school-aged kids

The home is set on a scenic, tree-lined street in Centennial, a municipality centrally located among some of Denver's most well-off suburbs

'I was unpacking in here and one of my dogs crouched down and started walking over to this corner really slow,' Hall told FOX31 of how she has made the disturbing discovery almost immediately after moving in.

'I was like, "What is it, buddy?" I thought maybe it was a spider, whatever,' she recalled.

'I came over and as I came over, I saw the snake slither up the wall.'

Upon closer inspection, she realized it was not one snake, but several - all living along the back wall of the home's garage that leads into the yard.

What's more, the unwanted guests were all shockingly large - and coiled up in a crevice that obscured their true numbers.

Wary of more legless visitors out of sight in the home's inner workings, said she Hall put her hand on the wall above the several visible and felt warmth, leading her to believe there were still more snakes unseen.

Since finding the first snakes on April 23, Hall says she has found at least nine more - and has paused unpacking her belongings or committing to moving in until the matter is resolved.

Hall remarked to Fox31 of the infestation. 'I started watching and there were more and more and more snakes.

'I dont know if I can even live here peacefully. Im petrified.'

What's more, the unwanted guests were all shockingly large - and coiled up in a crevice that obscured their true numbers

Upon closer inspection, she realized it was not one snake, but several - all living along the back wall of the home's garage that leads into the yard.

Wary of more legless visitors out of sight in the home's inner workings, said she Hall put her hand on the wall above the several visible and felt warmth, leading her to believe there were still more snakes unseen

Since finding the first snakes on April 23, Hall says she has found at least nine more - and has paused unpacking her belongings or committing to moving in until the matter is resolved

'I dont know if I can even live here peacefully,' the mom-of-two told Fox31 of the infestation, which wranglers said is likely severe given the snakes' ages and numbers. 'Im petrified'

Hall added that she was unsure of the species of snake, but according to experts that he has since been forced to seek out in the absence of the listing agent, the animals are garter snakes, which are harmless.

However, she told Denver 7 that even professional wranglers were astounded by the snakes' size, saying they are uncharacteristically large for a garter snake - and have likely lived in the home's walls for years.

'Shockingly big,' Hall recalled of the snakes' size. 'Everybody's saying they're some form of garter snake. But they're also giving the caveat that nobody's ever seen their garter snake that big.

She added: I can't unpack any of my stuff because I'm definitely afraid that there's snakes in the boxes or under the boxes.

'It's like you crawl into bed, and if the sheet brushes your foot or something, you immediately rip the covers off or jump out of bed to make sure nothing's in there.'

Hall has hired a snake wrangler, who helped her discover that the infestation was not limited to the home's walls, but underneath its flooring - with the critters burrowing within the dry wall and under the patio.

She told Denver 7 that the expert has been helping remove the snakes in a humane fashion, but at a cost - with the mother spending over $1,000 on the professional assistance, as well as multiple traps.

That said, the snake wrangler told her he believes some of the snakes have been living there for multiple years based on their size, and that there are likely 'a lot more.'

Hall added that she was unsure of the species of snake, but according to experts that he has since been forced to seek out in the absence of the listing agent, the animals are garter snakes, which are harmless.

However, she told Denver 7 that even professional wranglers were astounded by the snakes' size, saying they are uncharacteristically large for a garter snake - and have likely lived in the home's walls for years

Experts theorize that due to the snakes' advanced age and numbers, the home is likely set on top of a snake den. Hall, however, is now without a legal leg to stand on, as she can only pursue litigation if she can show proof the seller had knowledge of the house's condition

As for the listing agent who sold her the place, Hall told Fox31 they are not cooperating.

In a statement, a spokesperson said the company denied having any knowledge of the infestation, and would have told Hall if they had been aware of their presence.

They further told the station that this is the first time they have heard about snakes on the property.

That leaves Hall without a legal leg to stand on, as she can only pursue litigation if she can show proof that the seller had actual knowledge of the house's questionable condition.

'I just want somebody to be responsible for whatever it takes to get them out,' Hall said, maintaining that she will not feel comfortable in the house she paid for until she rips up the concrete and locates where they are living.

Experts hired by the mom theorize that due to the snakes' advanced age and numbers, the home is likely set on top of a snake den.

Until it is discovered, Hall told both Fox31 and Denver 7 that her boxes will stay packed.
A Polish plane nearly crashed after a Russian fighter jet intercepted it in a series of 'aggressive and dangerous' manoeuvres, according to Poland's border force.

The Polish surveillance plane, an L-410 Turbolet, was on patrol for the EU's border agency over the Black Sea on Friday when a Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet flew within 'five metres' of the aircraft three times.

The Russian jet did 'not make radio contact' before approaching the plane, which caused Polish pilots to 'lose control' of the aircraft and perform an emergency landing in Romania, the border agency said.

It comes after RAF Typhoon fighters and a Norwegian F-35A plane scrambled to intercept a Russian Tu-142 patrol aircraft approaching British airspace last week.

European leaders slammed the move as 'aggressive and dangerous' and called it a 'planned provocation'.

The Polish surveillance plane, an L-410 Turbolet , was on patrol for the EU's border agency over the Black Sea on Friday. File photo of L-410 Turbolet

A Russian Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet flew within 'five metres' of the polish aircraft three times, causing it to 'lose control' and perform an emergency landing. File photo of Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jet

Romania said the Polish plane was on a routine Frontex patrol with Romanian border police when it was intercepted.

Romania's defence ministry, which first reported the move, condemned Moscow's 'aggressive and dangerous' behaviour.

Poland's Government spokesman also slammed the interception as a 'planned provocation' by Russia.

The aircraft landed safely in Romania afterwards and Romanian and Spanish planes were put on 'pre-alert' by NATO.

It took place 'in international airspace over the Black Sea,' around 37 miles east of Romania's airspace, according to Romania's defence ministry.

The Polish plane has been deployed in Romania from April 19 and is due to stay there until May 17 as part of a Frontex operation organised by Romania that also includes Spain and Sweden.

Nato air commanders have accused Russia of deliberately flying towards its borders to test reaction times and provoke an incident to escalate the war in Ukraine.
Nine's chairman has slammed Australia for 'overreacting' to Covid and subjecting residents to 'draconian' and 'unnecessary' restrictions.

Peter Costello, who was a prominent treasurer under Liberal PM John Howard, said governments across Australia went 'too far' when they shut down workplaces and implemented daily curfews in 2020 and 2021.

Mr Costello said not even during World War II had Australians been forced to stay inside their homes past 9pm.

'You'll look back on it and you'll say, 'how did we put up with that infringement on individual liberty,' he told YouTube channel John Anderson Conversations.

Peter Costello (pictured) has slammed the Australian government for 'overreacting' when it imposed 'draconian' and 'unnecessary' Covid restrictions

Australia had one of the toughest lockdowns in the world with state leaders closing the borders and introducing draconian stay-at-home orders for millions of residents.

Western Australia closed its borders to the rest of Australia in March 2020 and in April enforced borders between regions in the state.

Premier Mark McGowan finally lifted the hard border with other states and territories in March, 2022 for all Australians and triple-vaccinated travellers from overseas.

However, it was residents in Melbourne who suffered the longest lockdown in the world, with strict stay-at-home orders enforced for a total of 262 days.

People could only exercise within a five kilometre radius of their home and were restricted by a nightly curfew of 9pm to 5am.

In Sydney, similar rules were enforced, with the military deployed to 'hotspot' areas like the south and southwest to ensure residents were following lockdown rules.

'The government had enormous reach, the government had huge media influence, they were running daily press conferences, giving out body counts all the time,' Mr Costello said.

'This idea that if you went out of your house for more than an hour a day, you could die, or worse you could infect someone that could die.

'But somehow, if you only went out for 59 minutes you were going to be safe.'

The 65-year-old, who was Treasurer under John Howard from 1996 to 2007, criticised state governments who had forbidden residents from visiting their loved ones in hospital or attending their funerals during the pandemic.

'You weren't allowed to say goodbye to loved ones, who were dying,' he said.

'And to me, this would have been unthinkable in the Second World War.

'But because the reach of the State now is so much greater, people just by and large just took it. The police were out arresting anybody who broke any of these rules.'

YouTube channel host Mr Anderson, who was deputy prime minister from 1999 to 2005, discussed with Mr Costello the highly-publicised arrest of a pregnant mother.

Zoe Buhler was live on Facebook and in her pyjamas when officers stormed into her home and handcuffed her in front of her children in September, 2020.

Mr Costello criticised the use of curfews and said not even in the Second World War had people been forced to stay inside their homes (pictured, Sydneysiders in September, 2021)

Ballarat mother Zoe Buhler, then aged 28, was handcuffed in her lounge room in front of her children and charged with incitement in September, 2020

She was charged with incitement after she made an online post that appeared to encourage locals in Ballarat, Victoria, to protest against Covid restrictions.

In the video of her arrest, Ms Buhler said she didn't know she was breaking any rules.

'I wasn't breaking any laws by doing that,' she said to a police officer.

'I'm happy to delete the post, this is ridiculous. My two kids are watching, I have an ultrasound in an hour, I'm happy to delete the post.'

In 2021, she contested the charge and $1,600 fine in Ballarat Magistrates Court where after a three-day hearing her charges were dropped.

Outside court, Ms Buhler said her stance on lockdowns remained the same and that she was glad to have stood up for 'people's human rights and freedom'.

'(It's) ridiculous on the police side of things that they dragged it out for so long. I'll be considering my options going forward, especially in regards to being handcuffed while pregnant,' she told reporters.

'I think it's disgusting that our human rights and freedoms were taken away from us.'

Outside court, Ms Buhler said her stance on lockdowns remained the same and that she was glad she stood up for 'people's human rights and freedom'

Ms Buhler's alleged offending post linked to a 'Freedom Day Ballarat' event she created

Former Australian Treasurer Peter Costello sits beside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the 2023 Australian Open

Mr Costello said Ms Buhler's planned demonstration had been 'entirely lawful'.

'Police came into her home, put her in handcuffs, take her off to the police station "enforcing the law" and it was just intimidation,' he said.

'As it turned out, the charge was dropped, it was just intimidation. The police might come into your home and they might arrest you.'

Mr Costello was Australia's longest serving Treasurer, serving from 1996 to 2007 under Liberal Prime Minister John Howard.
Eurovision revellers attending a 'Big Welcome' event in Liverpool city centre yesterday had to be helped out of the enclosure amid fears of overcrowding, it has been reported.

The pre-launch concert, sponsored by the National Lottery, was held in St George's Plateau a week before the big event - with performances from Conchita Wurst, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Atomic Kitten and others.

But the space in front of St George's Hall was said to become cramped as thousands of people poured in, Liverpool Echo reports.

Distressed members of the public were allegedly seen being helped over the barriers in order to get out.

An on-stage announcer said more people had turned up than expected and requested the crowd spread out before the show began.

Eurovision revellers attending a 'Big Welcome' event in Liverpool city centre yesterday had to be helped out of the enclosure amid fears of overcrowding

Shirley Ballas, AJ Odudu, Joel Dommett onstage celebrating Charity Workers during the National Lottery's Big Eurovision Welcome event

READ MORE: Fears pro-Russian hackers could ruin Eurovision by disrupting the broadcasts Advertisement

Organisers later clarified that the number of people in attendance was within their estimate, as it was a ticketed event.

One attendee named Jess claimed that BBC camera operators had done more to help trapped revellers than security.

She tweeted: 'Eurovision National Lottery sort yourselves out! Major health and safety issue going on. Ignored several times then puts a man on the stage telling people to come even closer.'

Another user said crowd management at the event was 'atrocious'.

Phil Symo added he was so concerned about safety he left the event early. He added: 'I hope they make a better effort with Eurovision because the organisation for this was an absolute s*** show. All the crowds on one side. Dangerous.'

A further partygoer described the festival as 'shockingly organised' and added she had a panic attack.

A Liverpool City Council spokesman said: 'Stewards assisted a few people who were uncomfortable in the crowd. The event started on time and is getting a great reception from the audience.'

'We continue to monitor the situation throughout the show to make sure people are comfortable.'

This year's Eurovision Song Contest will see shows at Liverpool Arena starting this week, with semi-finals on Tuesday and Thursday and the final taking place on Saturday.

The event, hosted by the UK on behalf of last year's winners Ukraine, is one of the biggest produced by the BBC.

Kaarija, the contestant for Finland, arrives on the Turquoise Carpet ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 Opening Ceremony

The unique turquoise carpet which has been rolled out for the contestants

Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper, representatives for Netherlands, attending the Eurovision Song Contest

British television presenter Rylan Clark also made an appearance

Remo Forrer will be representing Switzerland

According to the broadcaster, the hair and make-up teams will use more than 100 wigs and hairpieces, 1,000 litres of hairspray, more than 3,000 make-up brushes, and 5,000 hairpins to create looks for every performer.

Rails measuring 150m - equivalent to three Olympic-sized swimming pools - will hold the 482 costumes which have been made for the shows using 20,000m of thread.

The manufacturing of the costumes was done in the UK and Ukraine, which was unable to host the competition due to the Russian invasion.

The show will be watched by 160 million viewers worldwide, with over eight hours of live TV and 50 live feeds.

To stage it, there are more than 600 rigging points, 140 tons of steel ground support structure, and 1km of additional steel truss work being added to the arena.

The event will feature eight miles of cabling for lighting, sound, video and special effects, more than 2,000 specialist lighting fixtures, 200 custom staging decks, 950 square metres of staging for the main stage and 500 square metres of staging for the green room.

The lighting design includes 23,700 individual light sources and 2,500 automated colour-changing robotic lights, while sound will be captured by 150 microphones.

BBC director of unscripted Kate Phillips said: 'As these statistics show this is one of the biggest events the BBC has ever produced.

'Coming straight after such a significant and spectacular moment in history, we aim to produce an unforgettable and utterly joyful Eurovision, on behalf of Ukraine.

'Like the coronation, Eurovision has so many skilled and talented people from across the BBC working on it.

'Our brilliant team in Liverpool are making sure that all three live shows are simply must-see TV, for audiences across the UK, Europe and beyond.'
Putin has evacuated 1,680 citizens, including 660 children, from areas around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant seized by Russian forces.

The evacuations are said to affect Enerhodar, near Ukraine 's largest power plant - with the UN's nuclear watchdog warning of a possible 'severe nuclear accident'.

Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the order had caused chaos and five-hour long queues of cars at the checkpoint into Crimea.

The official warned a humanitarian crisis was 'growing' as shops stopped receiving goods, hospitals closed and threats had been made to cut off power and water.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, warned the situation is 'becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.'

Image shared by Fedorov on Telegram shows queues apparently leading out of the region

Evacuees from Zaporizhzhia region walk on a platform after arriving by evacuation train at the railway station of the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, on 20 April, 2023

Truck drivers queue on over ten kilometers at the Rava-Ruska border checkpoint on the Ukrainian-Polish border, on 18 April, 2023

The news comes as Ukraine gears up for a spring counter-offensive, breaking the winter deadlock with a push into occupied regions in the south and east.

Writing earlier this morning, Mr Fedorov said that 'Under the guise of a contrived 'evacuation', the occupiers are preparing real provocations.

'The humanitarian catastrophe caused by the sick fantasy of the Rashists ['Russian fascists'] is no less real.'

Ivan Fedorov was made mayor of Melitopol in 2020. He was captured by Russian forces early into the invasion. President Zelensky has alleged he was tortured

He added later that 'the occupiers promise the residents of the front-line territories golden mountains - comfortable accommodation at the captured recreation centres of Kyrylivka and Berdyansk.'

MailOnline was unable to verify the evacuation of Ukrainian refugees to the seaside beach-facing settlements - though eyewitnesses have echoed the reports.

LB.ua reported Saturday that locals were hiding their children as Russian occupants tried to evacuate them, in some cases without their parents, to recreation centres in Kyrylivka and Berdyansk.

The independent Ukrainian outlet said law enforcement agencies had confirmed the claims.

Mr Fedorov added: 'In fact, only [some] of the evacuees are brought to the coast - they are settled among the collaborators and the military. Others are taken to continental Russia.'

He said that Ukrainians evacuated from Kherson last year had found themselves later unable to return to Ukraine.

Russian state media confirmed the evacuation of the 18 occupied regions on Friday.

Russia confirmed the evacuation of 18 regions in the occupied part of Ukraine on Friday

A serviceman with a Russian flag on his uniform stands guard near the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on 4 August, 2022

A picture taken during a visit by Grossi to Enerhodar organised by the Russian military shows the spent nuclear fuel storage site at the power plant, 29 March 2023

Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned clashes around the Zaporizhzhia power plant in the city of Enerhodar threatens catastrophe.

Mr Grossi said: 'I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.

'We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment.'

For months, both sides fought tirelessly around Europe's largest power station, which remained staffed by Ukrainian employees under Russian control until September.

The plant at Zaporizhzhia is one of the ten biggest in the world and was responsible for nearly half the nuclear output of Ukraine's four reactors.

Ukrainian forces had little luck trying to recover the plant after the initial invasion, with rockets from both sides coming dangerously close to hitting the station.

Ukraine has warned since that damage to the structure risks a 'Chernobyl-style' catastrophe.

In September, the IAEA were able to inspect the integrity of the plant.

Both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of trying to sabotage the IAEA mission.

Mr Grossi, who has continued to visit the site for Russian-organised inspections, has said the 'plant and physical integrity of the plant' had been 'violated several times'.

In April, it was reported that dissenting plant workers - who refused to keep the plant active for Russian forces - had been the victims of torture during the occupation.

Ukrainian President Zelensky last week called for Putin to be tried in the Hague for 'criminal acts'.

Russia anticipates a counteroffensive from Ukraine this spring as it looks to reclaim territories

A view shows the site of a car bomb explosion outside a building housing a local TV station in Melitopol on October 25, 2022

Ukraine is expected to launch a counteroffensive this spring to break to winter stalemate.

In April, Pentagon leaks revealed American officials doubted the ability of Ukraine to wage an effective assault.

In recent days, Russian confidence has looked more exposed as Wagner Group threatens to withdraw from the contested city of Bakhmut in the east.

Russia has said it is ready to replace Wagner Group forces with Akhmat special forces from Chechnya in recent days - though experts warn the effectiveness is likely overstated.
Page has been tied to JPMorgan and Jeffrey Epstein over his pedophile ring

The US Virgin Islands is unable to subpoena Google co-founder Larry Page over potential ties to Jeffrey Epstein because he cannot be physically located, federal court filings reveal.

A motion filed by the attorney general for the US Virgin Islands said investigators tried to identify a physical address at which Page, 50, could be personally summoned to appear in a court.

After identifying four possible addresses, none of which were 'valid', prosecutors are requesting the federal government allow Page to be summoned via Alphabet, Google's parent company, as he is still a member of its board.

The motion to subpoena Page by 'alternative' means was filed last Thursday and makes up part of a case in which the Virgin Islands alleges JPMorgan facilitated Epstein's sex trafficking ring by handling his payments to recruiters and victims.

Page's whereabouts are largely unknown, though he was said in December to have spent the bulk of the COVID pandemic on one of his growing number of private islands - some of which are within the US Virgin Islands.

Page purchased Hans Lollik and its smaller neighboring island, Little Hans Lollik, in 2014 for $23 million.

The US Virgin Islands is unable to subpoena Google co-founder Larry Page over his ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Page has kept a very low profile in recent years. He is pictured here in 2016

Page purchased Hans Lollik and its smaller neighboring island, Little Hans Lollik, in 2014 for $23 million. They are both in the US Virgin Islands

A secluded beach on the larger Great Hans Lollik is pictured. Prosecutors have said they are unable to establish a 'valid' address for Page

Prosecutors say Epstein 'may have referred or attempted to refer' Page to JPMorgan.

'Larry Page - the co-founder and co-owner of Alphabet Inc. (Google LLC's parent company) - is a high-net-worth individual who Epstein may have referred or attempted to refer to JPMorgan,' a filing in the case reads.

Page is one of several billionaire businessmen the Caribbean government has subpoenaed over alleged links to JPMorgan and Epstein.

Virgin Islands prosecutors have previously subpoenaed JPMorgan's former chief executive Jes Staley, the other Google co-founder Sergey Brin, and former Disney executive Michael Ovitz.

The motion comes just weeks before current JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon is due to be deposed later this month.

JPMorgan is accused of servicing around 55 Epstein accounts from 1998 until 2013 - years after he was first arrested for soliciting minors in Florida in 2006.

Many victims have alleged Epstein sexually abused them on his private island, known as Little St. James, which served as the center of a human trafficking operation in which Epstein trafficked underage girls for sexual exploitation.

Attempts to subpoena Page coincide with the sale of the island to Stephen Deckoff, an entrepreneur and investor with plans to transform it into a luxury resort.

Jeffrey Epstein (pictured) abused underage girls on Little St. James with the help of his Ghislaine Maxwell

Little St James (pictured) and the neighboring island of Great St James have been purchased for $60 million by billionaire Stephen Deckoff. The islands used to belong to Jeffrey Epstein and Little St James was dubbed 'pedophile island' after Epstein used to it abuse underage girls

Epstein threw parties for the rich and famous on Little St James, with celebrities from Prince Andrew to Stephen Hawking among his guests. Pictured: Jeffrey Epstein is massaged by his assistant Sarah Kellen at his private island

The main property on Little St James is surrounded by several other structures including the maids' quarters and a massive, square-shaped white building on one end of the island that some say is a music room fitted with acoustic walls

A picture released at Ghislaine Maxwell's trial show the idyllic island of Little St James with the sprawling Epstein mansion

'The Government made good-faith attempts to obtain an address for Larry Page, including hiring an investigative firm to search public records databases for possible addresses,' read the filing.

'Our process server attempted service at the addresses identified by our investigative firm, but discovered the addresses were not valid for Mr. Page.'

In the motion prosecutors justified seeking seeking a special way of demanding Page appear in court by emphasizing that evidence needed to be submitted before the end of the month.

'Moreover, the fact-discovery end date is at the end of this month,' wrote prosecutors.

'In these circumstances, the Court should in the interest of securing just and expeditious resolution authorize the Government to provide alternative service by serving Mr. Page by service upon Alphabet Inc.'s registered agent.'

In 2021 it was reported by Insider that Page had been living in Fiji during the coronavirus pandemic - mostly on the island of Tavarua - which he owns, according to Insider.

The publication claimed an investigation into Page and fellow co-founder Sergey Brin revealed he has been quietly acquiring the network of islands across the globe.

Page spent months in Fiji during the coronavirus pandemic - mostly on the island of Tavarua -which he is said to own

An aerial view of Tavarua, where Page is said to have spent most of the pandemic. The heart-shaped island is in Fiji's Mamanuca archipelago

Page, pictured with his wife in 2013, flew from Hawaii to Fiji's Nadi International Airport to provide the country with medical supplies including masks, gowns and gloves

At around the same time Page was also spotted on a smaller island called Namotu.

It was reported by Fijian Broadcasting Company News in 2021 that he donated COVID medical supplies to Fiji during the pandemic, according to Insider, but the story miraculously disappeared later.

Sources told Insider that health officials in Fiji asked for it to come down, claiming that the information should not have been made public.

A later confirmed to DailyMail.com that the article had been removed after health officials said 'they didn't want the donation highlighted.'

It remains unclear where Page has been since that stint in Fiji or where the four addresses referred to in the motion are.
King Charles III may choose Australia and New Zealand as his first foreign visits following the coronation this weekend.

After being officially sworn in as monarch, the King must now address fundamental diplomatic questions, such as foreign visits to other commonwealth countries.

Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese had a private audience with the king just prior to the coronation, during which he extended a formal invitation for a state visit.

New Zealand prime minister Chris Hipkins also did the same when he was a guest at Westminster Abbey.

Both countries are growing in republican sentiment, with middle-aged voters trailing away from notions of monarchy.

King Charles III may choose Australia and New Zealand as his first foreign visits following the coronation this weekend

King Charles and Queen Camilla appear to making plans to visit both countries before anti-monarchist movements are given the chance to build momentum.

If he was to visit the country as part of his overseas tour this autumn, it would mark the first time the former prince has been to Australia in five years.

According to the Telegraph, one source close to the King said: 'He visited Canada only last year, so it would make sense for him to visit Australia and New Zealand, though the invitation has to come from them, so it's not something the King or the Government can decide unilaterally.'

He has always maintained the the decision of commonwealth countries to keep the British monarch as their head of state rests solely with the nation's own people.

Regardless, he still hopes that commonwealth countries will remain as engaged as possible.

Queen Elizabeth II is the only monarch to have visited Australia during their reign.
Mass shooting survivor Wilson Garcia looks up to the sky during a vigil for his son, Daniel Enrique Laso, 9, April 30, in Cleveland, Texas. AP-Yonhap



U.S. President Joe Biden renewed his call Sunday for a national assault-weapons ban and other gun safety measures, a day after eight people were murdered at a Texas shopping mall in the latest mass shooting to shake the nation.



Responders, distressed witnesses and police described scenes of panic and horror north of Dallas, where video footage circulating online showed the shooter exiting a sedan in an outlet mall parking lot Saturday and firing with a semi-automatic rifle on people walking nearby.



An officer on an unrelated call nearby quickly responded and "neutralized" the shooter at the large facility in Allen, police said.



Seven people were pronounced dead at the scene, in addition to the shooter.



Two other victims died in the hospital while "three are in critical surgery, and four are stable," Allen fire chief Jonathan Boyd said Saturday.



The Texas Department of Public Safety identified the shooter on Sunday as Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old from Dallas.



"Eight Americans  including children  were killed yesterday in the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation," Biden said in a statement Sunday morning.



He ordered U.S. flags lowered to half-staff "as a mark of respect for the victims" and repeated his call for lawmakers to take action against a gun "epidemic."



"Once again, I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines," the 80-year-old Democrat said.



He also demanded lawmakers require universal background checks for gun purchases and end legal immunity for manufacturers' whose weapons are used in attacks.



"I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe," Biden said in a statement.



The attack is the latest in an alarming trajectory of deadly U.S. gun violence. Barely a week earlier, a man shot and killed five neighbors in Cleveland, Texas after one of them asked him to stop firing his rifle in his yard at night while a baby slept.



Several other people have also been gunned down in recent weeks over petty disputes or common mistakes, such as knocking on the wrong door or getting into the wrong car.



Awash in firearms, the United States has already endured 199 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a non-governmental organization which defines a mass shooting as four or more people wounded or killed.



"Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables," Biden said, as he berated his political opponents for inaction.



"Republican members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug," he said. "Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough."





Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after a gunman shot multiple people at the Dallas-area Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, Texas, U.S. May 7. Reuters-Yonhap
The ABC has come under fire for its coronation coverage

A monarchist group has threatened legal action against the ABC over its coverage of King Charles III's Coronation.

The public broadcaster aired a two-hour special on Saturday that focused heavily on the impact colonisation had on Indigenous Australians and people of colour.

The Drum's Julia Baird and Jeremy Fernandez hosted the segment with Q&A host Stan Grant, Australian Republic Movement co-chair Craig Foster among the panel.

Liberal MP and monarchist Julian Leeser and Wiradjuri and Wailwan woman Teela Reid also made an appearance.

The program was aired at 5pm, just three hours before the Coronation of King Charles III was broadcast in Australia.

The coverage drew criticism from monarchist group the Australian Monarchist League, 3AW radio host Neil Mitchell and a number of Liberal MPs and ABC viewers.

The AML released a statement revealing it was preparing to file a legal complaint to the public broadcaster's board.

The ABC has been slammed over its broadcast of King Charles III's coronation, with the Australian Monarchist League preparing to file a formal complaint against the public broadcaster over its 'bias' coverage (pictured, Q&A host Stan Grant)

'Our legal advisers are preparing a formal complaint to the board of the ABC in regard to the production and airing of Saturday's extremely biased pre-Coronation programme specifically designed to attack the Constitution and the Crown,' AML national chair Philip Benwell wrote.

'Our Executive and others are meeting this week to formalise our approach.'

'So vitriolic are their attacks on the King, the monarchy, the British settlement and everything that came thereafter that they forget that they are the very people who want our vote for their Voice to the Parliament.'

Mr Benwell said the group welcomed 'pertinent comments from members' about the broadcast that would help in compiling their formal complaint.

'This should include specific comments made during the programme by interviewers and panelists,' he added.

Melbourne's 3AW radio broadcaster Neil Mitchell slammed the public broadcaster.

He said ABC management needed to 'be accountable' over the coverage which 'misread the mood'.

'I really wonder sometimes why we feed these ABC people, I don't blame the people on air, it's whomever in management decides, "Ah, here's a good idea, let's use footage from London while we bag the living daylights out of the monarchy",' he said.

'Somebody in the ABC needs to be accountable for this, as the national broadcaster it should have been the place you go to see the coverage of the coronation, instead you see all this bitterness about our Indigenous history.'

He added the panel featured four people with 'three of them republicans'.

Liberal MP Julian Leeser, who was on the panel and the only monarchist present at the time, claimed the ABC 'got the balance wrong'.

'To have only one of four panellists as supporters of our existing constitutional arrangements meant there was little opportunity for a panel discussion that reflected the warmth and respect Australians have for King Charles,' he said.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla pose after their Coronation at Buckingham Palace on Saturday

Hosted by Julia Baird and Jeremy Fernandez, the two-hour ABC special featured a panel that consisted of Grant, Craig Foster, Julian Leeser, and Teela Reid

The outrage was also reflected on social media, with a number of viewers lambasting the ABC over the two-hour special.

'Ok I'm about to change channels away from ABC. Who can tell me the best coverage of the actual coronation?' one viewer tweeted.

'I had to turn off the boring ABC coverage of the coronation,' another said, comparing it to a 'history lecture'.

'I'm finding it quite inappropriate that we are talking negatively about the monarchy when it's coronation day,' a third said.

'Have a slight bit of respect ABC.'

'Tried to watch it on #ABCNews but they have on commentators that are just talking non-stop about the evils of the monarchy & the wrongs they've done to Australia,' said another.

'Can coverage get back to the Coronation please? We don't want your Voice/Republic propaganda,' said another.

'This was one of the worst coverage ABC has done in a long time. This is about a coronation, not race. Unbelievable.'

'Totally disrespectful by the ABC.'

There were also many Aussies who were pleased to see the panel discuss different ideas.

'ABC coverage of the Coronation has gotten off to an excellent start by putting First Nations perspectives on colonisation and empire front and centre,' one viewer said.

'Watching pre-coronation coverage on ABC, with First Nations people saying it like it is: this coronation is political,' another wrote.

'The real Australia is about invasion, theft, extermination.'

Some ABC viewers complained about the broadcaster's Coronation coverage

While some viewers praised the national broadcaster's approach, others decided to change channels altogether

The ABC has defended its coverage of the event, reiterating its role of facilitating 'conversations that reflect the diversity of views in the community' in a statement (pictured, The Drum's Julia Baird and Jeremy Fernandez)

An ABC spokesperson defended the public broadcaster's coverage of the event when questioned about the criticism by Daily Mail Australia.

'The ABC brought full coverage of the Coronation of King Charles III to Australians across its television and digital radio platforms and to audiences across the Asia Pacific via ABC Australia and Radio Australia,' they said.

'Preceding the ceremonial events, as part of the comprehensive coverage ABC News canvassed an array of perspectives and views on the role of the monarch in 21st century Australia.'

The spokesperson listed the guests on the panel before explaining the role of the ABC to broadcast a 'diverse' range of perspectives.

'The role of the national broadcaster is to facilitate conversations that reflect the diversity of views in the community.'

'Hearing from Indigenous Australians and reflecting on Australia's history is an important part of this, especially as this year Australians will vote in a referendum on whether a First Nations Voice to Parliament should be included in the nation's Constitution.'

A number of programs dedicated to King Charles that aired on the ABC were also referred to in the public broadcaster's response.
Mr Drumgold texted 'oh no' after hearing about her speech

Lisa Wilkinson is pictured giving her Logies speech last year

Lisa Wilkinson sent multiple emails to the top prosecutor at the helm of the rape trial against Bruce Lehrmann pleading with him to tell the public that her disastrous Logies speech was not in contempt of court.

Shane Drumgold, the ACT Director of Public Prosecutions, told a special Board of Inquiry on Monday his account of the fallout from Wilkinson's speech which delayed Lehrmann's rape trial last year.

Mr Drumgold told the inquiry that he first reacted to Wilkinson's Logies speech last June by texting his junior counsel something along the lines of 'oh no'.

The speech delayed Mr Lehrmann's trial and sparked a media furor, with the inquiry hearing reports in the press were 'impacting her personally'.

On Monday, Mr Drumgold was grilled over why he didn't respond to emails from Channel Ten's lawyer Marlia Saunders asking him to specifically clear her name. He argued he 'probably' didn't respond because he was concerned about Brittany Higgins' mental health at the time, and didn't think the emails warranted a response.

In the emails, Wilkinson's lawyer Ms Saunders pointed to an earlier conversation in which she claimed Mr Drumgold had agreed to clear Wilkinson's name.

The lawyer's emails also claimed Wilkinson did not believe she was warned against delivering her Logies speech, but that media reports incorrectly suggested she was due to a comment by the presiding judge.

Ms Saunders said Wilkinson had been treated 'unfairly' by the DPP's office, and left her role as host on The Project due to media backlash following the speech on June 19 last year.

When Erin Longbottom, the counsel acting for the inquiry, asked why he never told the public that he did not believe Wilkinson's speech was in contempt of court, Mr Drumgold said: 'I'm not a publicist, I'm the Director of Public Prosecutions.'

Shane Drumgold (pictured), the ACT Director of Public Prosecutions, told a Board of Inquiry on Monday that he did not watch the television awards on June 19 last year

Mr Drumgold then said it was not his responsibility to rectify calls for Wilkinson to be charged with contempt because the information was not in the public record.

'What you're suggesting is that me, as the DPP, should monitor media and rebut false media,' he told the inquiry.

Ms Longbottom and retired judge Walter Sofronoff, who is leading the inquiry, interjected and said that was not the suggestion at all.

Mr Sofronoff said: '[In the email] Ms Saunders is putting to you that her client feels she has been treated unfairly. You don't get that every day, do you?'

Mr Drumgold said he did not often receive emails like that.

During her Logies acceptance speech last year, Wilkinson said she 'believed' Ms Higgins and generally implied the former Liberal staffer's allegations were true.

The speech, which was broadcast nationally, ultimately resulted in Mr Lehrmann's defence lawyers successfully applying to have the case postponed on the grounds that Wilkinson's words may have biased a jury against him.

Mr Lehrmann was charged with sexual intercourse without consent in August 2021, with the jury set to meet for the first time on June 27, 2022 - eight days after Wilkinson's speech. Mr Lehrmann had pleaded not guilty and has continually maintained his innocence.

Following her Logies win, media reports claimed Wilkinson was sufficiently warned against making any public speech about the rape trial, but that she ignored those warnings and went ahead with her speech anyway.

There were further calls on social media to charge the journalist with contempt of court. On Monday, the Inquiry heard Wilkinson claims those reports were false and that she does not believe she was warned.

Furthermore, Mr Drumgold agreed that he did not believe Wilkinson had committed any offence.

Bruce Lehrmann can be seen sitting at the back of the Board of Inquiry on Monday

Earlier, Mr Drumgold told the inquiry he did not watch the television awards on June 19 last year and did not know the contents of Wilkinson's speech until he looked it up.

During her acceptance speech, the TV journalist said she 'believed' Ms Higgins and generally implied the former Liberal staffer's allegations were true.

Mr Lehrmann was charged with sexual intercourse without consent in August 2021, with the jury set to meet for the first time on June 27, 2022 - eight days after Wilkinson's speech.

The speech, which was broadcast nationally, ultimately resulted in Mr Lehrmann's defence lawyers unsuccessfully applying to have the case thrown out on the grounds that Wilkinson's words may have biased a jury against him.

The case was delayed instead. Mr Lehrmann had pleaded not guilty and has continually maintained his innocence.

On Monday, Ms Longbottom KC asked Mr Drumgold whether he was alerted to the speech on the morning of June 20.

'I think I may have been alerted, I can't quite recall, I may have got a text alerting me that something had happened, it might have been from Skye' he said, referring to his junior counsel during the trial, Skye Jerome.

When asked what his response was, Mr Drumgold said it was probably words to the effect of 'oh no'.

'I was given enough information to conclude that something had gone wrong,' he recalled.

Mr Drumgold was also quizzed about a Microsoft Teams meeting he had with Wilkinson, a lawyer for Channel 10, and Ms Jerome on June 15 - four days prior to the Logie awards.

The inquiry heard Wilkinson told him she had a speech prepared in the event that she won, and and tried to read it aloud during the meeting as a way of asking whether she should make edits for legal reasons.

Brittany Higgins alleged Bruce Lehrmann raped her in Parliament House in 2019. He pleaded not guilty. She is pictured, left, outside court in 2022

Mr Drumgold was adamant that he warned the journalist that any publicity about the case could jeopardise the trial, but did not listen to her speech.

When the head of the inquiry Walter Sofronoff asked why he didn't listen to her speech, the prosecutor said he effectively thought she was 'bragging' about her nomination.

When Ms Longbottom asked why else Wilkinson would have tried to read her speech to him, Mr Drumgold said 'I don't know'.

'Frankly, when I was hearing it I thought it was Ms Wilkinson pointing out that she was up for a Logie,' he continued.

Mr Sofronoff interjected: 'You thought she was bragging about being nominated?'

Mr Drumgold replied: 'Of that flavour, yes.'

The inquiry, which is the Territory's version of a royal commission, will examine interactions between prosecutors and ACT Police regarding the charge against Mr Lehrmann, and the decisions to go ahead with a first trial and then not proceed with a retrial.

Conflict arose between ACT Police and prosecutors about whether it was appropriate for police to interview Ms Higgins for a second time. There was also 'confusion' about whether Mr Lehrmann should be charged.

Wilkinson won a news and current affairs Logie award for her interview with Brittany Higgins on The Project in February 2021, during which the former parliamentary staffer first aired her sexual assault allegations against Mr Lehrmann.

The ACT government established the inquiry following accusations by police and prosecutors about each other's conduct during Mr Lehrmann's 12-day rape trial.
Wild weather and powerful winds smashing Australia's east coast have caused widespread havoc, with dozens of flights cancelled and popular beaches closed as monster waves pounded the coast.

Chilly and gusty southerly winds pummeled the NSW coast on Monday, with Sydney and surrounding regions in the firing line with gusts of 52km/h.

A severe weather warning remains in place for the Sydney and Illawarra regions, with damaging winds and hazardous surf warnings along the coast.

Up to 50 domestic flights have been cancelled at Sydney Airport since 6 am due to the closure of two of the three runways.

Waves of up to six metres lashed the Sydney coast on Monday, prompting lifeguards to close a number of beaches, including Coogee, Maroubra, Bronte, Tamarama and Cronulla due to 'extremely dangerous condition

A lone and very brave surfer paddled out at Bondi despite the monster waves (above)

Only the bravest of surfers ventured into the water at Bondi on Monday morning

The massive waves attracted hundreds of curious beach watchers along the coast as brave surfers ventured out in the powerful surf.

'It was the biggest swell I've seen at Coogee, there was at least 300 people watching form the dog park,' one local posted.

While Bondi and the northern beaches remain open, swimmers and surfers are warned that could change.

'The weather forecast indicates strong winds and elevated swell conditions along our beloved coastline. As much as we love the thrill of the ocean, it's crucial to prioritise safety and exercise caution during these conditions,' Northern Beaches Council posted.

The mercury dipped to 10.5C at Sydney Airport 4am Monday, but the apparent temperature was a chilly 8C as cold winds blasted the Harbour City.

No international routes were disrupted, but the conditions impacted on other domestic flights across the country heading for Sydney.

'This decision is purely weather-related  crosswinds on the parallel runways are up to 56km/h, and stronger gusts are possible,' a Sydney airport spokesperson said.

Passengers heading to airport are urged to check with their airline for the latest updates.

Parallel runway operations are expected to return later on Monday when wind conditions are expected to ease.

Sydney is expected to reach a top of 18C of Monday, but it it will feel much colder due to the blustery winds.

It comes after a massive cold front saw temperatures plummet by up to 10C below average across south-east Australia, bringing rain, hail, snow and blustery conditions.

Sydneysiders shivered through the city's coldest night in decades as temperatures plummeted to 7.1C, its lowest temperature this early in autumn for 85 years.

The return of clear skies and lighter winds will cause frigid overnight temperatures, with frost likely to affect large areas of Queensland, NSW and the ACT.

While the cold front is expected to move offshore, a second blast of cold air is expected to come in from the south of the country over the next few days.

Massive waves are seen crashing into rocks at Bondi as stunned beachgoers watched on

Coogee Beach was among several Sydney beaches to be closed by lifeguards on Monday

Massive swells attracted crowds of curious beachgoers on Monday. Pictured are waves crashing into the rocks at Bondi

Bondi Beach (pictured) remained open on Monday, despite the hazardous surf conditions

Lifeguards used jet skis to keep a close eye on the hazardous surf conditions at Bondi

'We've seen a narrow band of storm wrapping up the coast, which is an equivalent of a category two cyclone,' meteorologist Tony Auden told Sunrise on Monday.

'Thankfully they're not on the coast but we have a lot of wind over land, warnings for damaging wind gusts up to 100k/h south of Sydney down to Ulladulla with gusty winds up to 50k/h wrapping around up as far as northern NSW and Queensland as well.

'Those winds are whipping a huge seas, potentially with wave heights up to 8-9m off NSW coast. As that low moves away, that energy source to move north and away.'

'We are expecting a fair bit of erosion on beaches and could see inundation in low-lying areas.'

Melbourne was also chilly on Monday with a top of 15c expected after the mercury plunged to 7.5C at Melbourne Airport earlier in the morning which felt more like 1.6C.

Parts of south-eastern Australia shivered through their lowest May temperatures in years over the weekend.

At least 50 domestic flights were also cancelled at Sydney Airport. Pictured is passengers at a packed Hobart airport waiting to travel to Sydney

Some surfers (pictured at Bondi) braved massive waves of up to six metres

This swimmer was undeterred by the conditions at Bondi as wind gusts began to ease

A hazardous surf warning is expected to remain in place for much of the NSW coast on Tuesday

Temperatures plummeted below the May average by as much as 5C in NSW, 8C in South Australia and 10C in Tasmania.

Ski resorts also welcomed falls of fresh powder a month out from the start of ski season.

While low pressure systems over the Tasman Sea are not uncommon at this time of year, this one caused a unique set of conditions that resulted in unusually low temperatures, and snow levels, for this early in autumn,' Weatherzone said.

'The combination of cold southerly winds near the surface and abundant moisture in the middle and low levels of the atmosphere allowed a phenomenon known as the 'melting effect' to occur above parts of eastern Vic, eastern NSW and the ACT on Sunday.'

A cold front that has swept across the east coast kept temperatures below average on Monday

Temperatures have plummeted up to 10C below average in Australia's south-east

Visitors flocked to Victoria's Mount Hotham ski resort on the weekend to get an early taste of snow

Hail blanketed cars in Canberra (pictured) on Sunday.

Snow is expected to fall at 600m in Tasmania, 800m in Victoria and as low as 900m in NSW, according to Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Dean Narramore.

'We've seen temperatures anywhere from four to eight degrees below average in Tasmania, Victoria and NSW and on Monday that cold air will get up into Queensland,' Mr Narramore said.

'We're likely to see widespread inland frosts through northern Victoria, much of NSW. We could even see frosts get up into parts of Queensland on Monday and Tuesday.'

Mr Narramore described it as 'a sure sign that winter is on its way.'

Another cold front is expected to impact Western Australia on Wednesday, bringing with it rain, storms and strong winds, Mr Narramore said.

It's expected to bring wet and cold weather to Adelaide on Thursday, before weakening and moving into Victoria and Tasmania.

The nation's capital was blanketed in hail on Sunday as the mercury dipped below zero
Shocking video footage shows the moment an SUV plowed into a crowded bus stop in a Texas border town, killing eight people and leaving at least 11 injured.

Filmed early Sunday, the clip was released by a local congressman hours after the crash - with the driver now in custody after an eighth victim was confirmed dead on Sunday evening.

The snippet starts seconds before the moment of impact where a group of at least 17 can be seen sitting on the curb or standing waiting at the stop outside the Ozanam Center which houses homeless migrants.

Suddenly, the unnamed motorist in a Range Rover comes into frame, hurtling toward the group at frightening speeds. The footage - which the DailyMail.com has chosen to censor due to its graphic nature - then shows the crowd being obliterated by the more than a two-and-half ton vehicle, which cops said had run a red light.

As of Monday morning, it is not known if the strike was intentional - however, witnesses who survived the strike claimed the driver, identified as an 'uncooperative' Hispanic male by cops, hurled profanities at the group as he raced toward them.

Scroll down for video:

Shocking video footage shows the moment an SUV plowed into a crowded bus stop in a Texas border town, killing eight people and injuring several more

Police arrested the suspect who was driving the car, but have yet to name him. He has been 'uncooperative' with investigators, cops said Sunday as the continue to investigate

'A woman in a white car came by and told us to move, and another car behind her came toward us at full speed, yelling profanities at us,' the man who was at the bus stop but survived told CBS News, in an interview translated from Spanish.

The man named Luis added it was the second car that 'ran us over.'

It is unclear from the newly released footage to confirm the man's account - though a white car can be seen in the shot snippet driving a few feet in front of the suspect's car, in the adjacent lane.

Compounding people's suspicions that the strike was premeditated is the fact it happened three days before a Trump-era immigration restriction making it harder for migrants to seek asylum in the US is set to expire.

Dubbed Title 42, the pandemic-era policy allowed border patrol agents to swiftly return migrants to their home countries - something particularly relevant to residents of the Southern Texas city, which is 95 percent Hispanic and Latino.

Set less than two miles from the Mexican border, the town is set to see a rise in immigration in the coming weeks, once the Trump-era restrictions are lifted.

Cops in the border city, however, have stopped short of saying the crash was intentional, with a Brownsville police spokesperson only confirming the suspect - who was filmed being arrested without a shirt on after the incident - was Hispanic.

Spokesperson Martin Sandoval further added during a Sunday news conference that the suspect is 'not cooperating' with local authorities, and has only been hit with a reckless driving charge.

The rep quickly added that will 'more than likely' change as their investigation continues, with both the FBI and Border Patrol participating in the probe.

The latter, cops said, is working to confirm the identities of the victims - after Sandoval confirmed Sunday that several migrants were among the dead. In a statement later in the day, he revealed an eighth victim died after being hospitalized.

He also said the SUV flipped after running up on the curb where several of the victims has been sitting, and continued moving for about 200 feet before hitting another group on the sidewalk about 30 feet away.

Not seen in the footage is the Ozanam Center, a homeless shelter that serves individuals and families in the area.

Currently, the shelter houses immigrants while they wait for more permanent housing, and according to director Victor Maldonado, it has not received any threats in the past.

However, in the aftermath of the crash, Maldonado said that has begun to change.

'I've had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason that this happened was because of us,' he said.

Maldonado added that most of the men who were struck were Venezuelan men - though it remains unclear how many of the victims were migrants.

Maldonado did however, say the group was sitting on the curb waiting for the bus, as the stop does not have a bench.

'What we see in the video is that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about a hundred feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop,' Maldonado said.

Other emerging footage showed the unidentified suspect being detained by police after the car flipped.

As of Monday morning, it is not known if the strike was intentional - however, witnesses like Luis (seen here) who survived the strike claimed the driver hurled profanities at the group as he raced toward them

The Range Rover that struck a group of people who were at a bus stop outside the homeless center for migrants

The intersection remained closed off in the aftermath as authorities, in partnership with the FBI and Border Patrol, worked to investigate the crash

Police put up evidence markers around the clothes and accessories strewn across the street

The Ozanam center is a homeless shelter that serves individuals and families in the area - and because it sits right on the US-Mexico border, many of its clients are migrants

The crash comes as the city of Brownsville deals with an influx of migrants.

Last month, the city issued a disaster declaration after 15,000 migrants  mostly from Venezuela  crossed over in a single week, overwhelming border security.

In a normal week, only about 2,000 migrants attempt to cross at Brownsville.

Tensions flared amid the uptick in migration last month, when some tents housing the immigrants were set ablaze and destroyed.

Some migrants blamed cartel-backed gangs, but a government official suggested the fires may have been set by a group of frustrated migrants.

The situation may also get worse in the coming week, with the end of Title 42 on Thursday.

The COVID-era policy allowed border agents to send migrants back to Mexico.

Authorities, meanwhile, have ordered a blood sample from the driver, as well as a toxicology test will be ordered, Sandoval said. It is not yet clear when those results will be released.

The suspect, in the interim, faces the sole reckless driving charge.
It comes days after a hotel owner was attacked and eaten

The pair are criticised for the dangerous act on TikTok

Two men have walked in croc-infested waters in north QLD

Two men have been slammed for wading in croc-infested waters just over a week after a hotel owner was killed and eaten by two crocodiles while fishing.

The men were captured on camera walking waist-deep through the Jardine River at Cape York in Queensland's Far North.

One of the men is shirtless holding a can of beer while the other brandishes a lever action rifle.

Both men trudge through the murky water before making it to the shoreline.

Footage of the incident was uploaded to TikTok with the video overlaid with the popular song, 'Dumb Ways To Die'.

'Checking the depth of croc infested Jardine River,' the caption read.

Two men have been lambasted over social media after they were filmed recklessly wading through crocodile-infested waters in Far North Queensland

A number of viewers slammed the pair over the reckless act due to the sheer number of crocodiles that lurk in the river.

'Croc would be on you dude before you could aim - seriously, you're in their world now,' said one person in the comments.

'Sorry mate but the gun ain't gonna keep ya safe they go under water not above won't see it coming they hunt for a living,' another commented.

A third added: 'They wouldn't see it coming, until it grabbed one of them.'

'Two tough thinking non-locals come up this way and think they own the place, doing stupid s**t like this,' another wrote.

A Department of Environment and Science spokesman said the DES strongly condemned the dangerous actions of the men.

'DES wildlife officers work hard to equip people with the tools and education they need to be Crocwise, and it is frustrating to see people take unnecessary, life-threatening risks in known crocodile habitat,' he said.

It is currently illegal to shoot a crocodile in Queensland.

The reckless act comes just over a week after publican Kevin Darmody, 65, was killed by two saltwater crocodiles at Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park, which is about 600km south from the Jardine River.

A number of viewers slammed the pair over the reckless act due to the sheer number of crocodiles that lurk in the river (stock image)

Mr Darmody had been fishing along the banks of the Kennedy River at 3:30pm on April 29.

Nearby campers recalled hearing screams and frantic splashing with fears raised he was taken by a crocodile.

Authorities believe Mr Darmody went to the water's edge to retrieve a fishing lure when he was snatched by one of the reptiles.

Wildlife rangers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) shot two crocodiles, measuring 4.1 metres and 2.8 metres, two days after the attack.

The pair of reptiles were located about 1.5 kilometres upstream from where Mr Darmody was last seen.

Human remains were found in one of the reptiles following a necropsy - a post-mortem examination of an animal - but both crocodiles are believed to be involved in the attack.

The search for a missing fisherman Kevin Darmody (pictured) has been called off after police found human remains within one of two crocodiles euthanised

The suspected attack has sparked calls for changes to how Queensland manages the reptiles.

Queensland's Australian Party leader Robbie Katter has advocated to cull crocodiles because the territorial predators are moving up the river system and overtaking the waterways.

'My immediate response and it sounds a bit blunt, but how about we dump them in your river and see how you go co-existing with them,' Mr Katter said.

'I take my family to the Gregory River and that's where we swim because there are no crocs but they now coming up the Gregory.

'At Lake Placid, where I used to swim as a kid, you can't swim there anymore either.'
Bill Crews provides for people who 'can't afford food'

One of Australia's most respected church ministers has slammed a banker's eyewatering $57million pay packet as 'shameful'.

The Reverend Bill Crews, who is a close friend of the Dalai Lama, has been supporting the homeless and disadvantaged in Sydney for decades.

The Good Samaritan provided for more than 1.1million people during the pandemic and has hosted Christmas Day lunches for those in need for more than 30 years.

Crews took to Twitter on Monday morning, asking his followers: 'Did you read the reports of a banker earning $57 million in a year?

'Surely earning that much money isn't a reason for pride, but a shameful indictment on inequality in Australia Today I feed people so poor they can't afford food, medicine let alone a roof over their head.'

His tweet came after it was revealed a top executive at Macquarie Bank earned a total remuneration of $57.6million in the bank's 2023 financial year.

The Reverend Bill Crews, who is a close friend of the Dalai Lama, has been supporting homeless and disadvantaged people in Sydney for decades (the pair are pictured)

The Good Samaritan and his team provided for more than 1.1million people during the pandemic and have hosted Christmas Day lunches for the needy for 30 years (Crews is pictured with Anthony Albanese as volunteers prepare meals for the needy)

Crews took to Twitter on Monday morning, asking his followers: 'Did you read the reports of a banker earning $57 million in a year?

Nick O'Kane, Macquarie's global head of commodities and markets, earned more than Macquarie Bank CEO Shemara Wikramanayake.

It was almost 50 per cent more than he earned in 2022 when he still had a pay package worth an incredible $36.2 million, the bank's annual report reveals.

Ms Wikramanayake's total 'award remuneration' for 2023 weighed in at a mere $32.8million by comparison, up from $25.8 million in 2022.

The massive paydays came as the Sydney-based global financial services firm registered a record $5.2billion profit after tax for the year.

The bulk of Mr O'Kane's awarded pay came in $39.8million of retained profit share, which is a rolling program paid out over seven years.

That was almost double his $21.3million retained profit share in 2022.

His base wage was very humble by comparison at just $723,419 in 2023, up $98 from his $723,321 salary in 2022.

But he also took home an available profit share of $17million, up from $14million the previous year. Ms Wikramanayake's base pay was $821,081.

Mr O'Kane, who joined Macquarie in 1995, is now expected to be the highest earner of all Australian Stock Exchange company executives, or very close to it.

The bank earned its 'millionaire's factory' nickname for its generous pay and bonus structure over the past 20 years but it insists all rewards are performance related.

'I think if you have an idea, and it's a great idea, bring that to management and articulate what that idea is and go for it,' Mr O'Kane said on the bank's website.

Respected Sydney Reverend Bill Crews (pictured) has slammed a banker's staggering pay packet of $57million a year as 'shameful'

Nick O'Kane (pictured), Macquarie's global head of commodities and markets, earned a staggering total remuneration of $57.6million in the bank's 2023 financial year

'Because at Macquarie we are the type of organisation where we have a bias to saying yes.

'If you have a great idea, you will get the opportunity to be able to chase that idea down and build a business and you never know what that might come into.'

Twitter users were quick to reply to Crews's tweet.

'Utterly revolting. No one is worth that. Australia needs a wealth tax,' one said.

"Banker earning $57 million in a year". Obscene at so many levels,' another wrote.

Sex under the desk, envelopes stuffed with cash, 16-hour days and the strip club at lunchtime - life in leading bank's 'Millionaires' Factory'

By CANDACE SUTTON FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

In its rise to the top ranks as one of Australia's most respected investment banks and a breeding ground for young and wealthy traders, Macquarie Bank has earned a reputation as a 'work hard, play hard' outfit with its fair share of scandals.

In the new book 'The Millionaires' Factory', the turbocharged atmosphere of Macquarie included people having sex in its showers or under the desk, and drinking from the well-stocked booze fridge as they worked 12 to 16 hour days.

In the lead-up to the global financial crisis of 2008, the partying culture at Macquarie was such that going to a 'gentleman's club' up the road was a tradition every Wednesday lunchtime - but only for the male bankers - and one day pornographic magazines were found in one of the toilets.

And as the book, 'the inside story of how Macquarie Bank became a global giant' written by The Australian newspaper's Joyce Moullakis and Chris Wright' reveals, there was an annual 'White Envelope Day'.

As one of Australia's most respected investment banks and a breeding ground for young and wealthy traders, Macquarie Bank has earned a reputation as a 'work hard, play hard' outfit with its fair share of scandals

The Millionaires' Factory co-written by Joyce Moullakis (above) charts Macquarie's beginnings in 1969 as an Australian subsidiary of the English merchant bank Hill Samuel, its growth in the 1980s during financial deregulation and the floating of the Australian dollar

This was the 'eagerly awaited' day when bonuses were awarded, and Macquarie's senior bankers would be called in to the head of department's office to receive a sum which could mean they could buy a new car or new house.

'You always knew who got a million dollar plus,' the authors quote one insider, and then the staff would retreat to the nearby bars to celebrate in 'the high octane debauch that would follow'.

The booze fridge opened at midday, and by the early 2000s - when Macquarie's after-tax profits went from $250 million in 2002 to $1.803 billion in 2008 - the partying culture was endemic.

Young tyros were doing deals, and among the culture was one of celebrating the banks success - which as the book's authors went to print was 19,000 staff and a current market cap of $70 billion.

The parties were held in five-star hotels, on yachts and included lavish gifts for Macquarie's loyal workers, including at one Christmas time a keyring from the luxury jewellery house Tiffany.

In the new book 'The Millionaires' Factory', co-authored by Chris Wright (left) the turbocharged atmosphere of Macquarie Bank is laid bare amid its after-tax massive profits, going from from $250 million in 2002 to $1.803 billion in 2008

The Millionaires' Factory charts Macquarie's beginnings in 1969 as an Australian subsidiary of the English merchant bank Hill Samuel, its growth in the 1980s during financial deregulation and the floating of the Australian dollar.

Macquarie weathered the 1987 global share market crash remarkably well, thanks to a policy of risk management that many credit for ensuring its unbroken history of profitability.

But Macquarie's reputation as one of the top rank financial trading houses in the world did not come without its scandals, and the book concedes that Macquarie 'has had its fair share'.

Simon Gautier Hannes

In 1996, he was overseeing the a $2 billion takeover of the transport company TNT by the Dutch telecommunications firm KPN, with Hannes advising its long-term client TNT.

The fee for Macquarie was somewhere between $5 million and $10 million.

One of the bank's youngest executive directors at 29, Hannes was later convicted of insider trading and served almost 20 months in a NSW prison

As court hearings would later reveal, Hannes began withdrawing sums which would eventually amount to $90,000 in the name of Mark Booth.

He had opened a cash management trust account with a broker in that name and, the court would find, was essentially requesting a broker to invest the $90,00 in TNT.

Hannes was convicted of insider trading and served 15.5 months in prison before a retrial which added a further four-and-a-half months to his minimum jail sentence.

Ian Chalmers

In 2006, Ian Robert Chalmers - known at Macquarie Bank as 'Rocky' - was jailed for five-and-a-half years with a minimum of three-and-a-half years.

But in 2007, then aged 43, the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal increased his sentence to 12 years, with a non-parole period of eight years.

He had been found guilty of conspiring to import cocaine, not less than the commercial quantity, in a smuggling ring, which used Sydney Airport baggage handlers to help bring the drug into Australia.

In the second half of the 1990s, Simon Hannes was considered a great banker with a sharp mind who had earned the right to become Macquarie's then youngest ever executive director at the age of 29.

A private schoolboy who was closely related to photographic industry pioneer and founder of Hanimex, Jack Hannes, he was regarded as something of a genius, although a loner.

By that time, he had left Macquarie, where he had been hired to work in markets and stockbroking.

In 2006, Ian Robert Chalmers - known at Macquarie Bank as 'Rocky' - was jailed for smuggling 30kg of cocaine from South America into Australia with the help of crooked baggage handlers

An expansive character known for his excessive behaviour even for the high-flying scene at Macquarie, his vocal performance in the trading pit caused his colleagues to say he sounded a lot like Sylvester Stallone in the Hollywood star's movie series about boxer Rocky Balboa.

Chalmers was accused of smuggling 30kg of cocaine into the country in a scheme that would pay couriers to travel to South America and then return to Sydney on a flight with drug-filled luggage. Baggage handlers were in on the scam.

He was a drug taker who helped organise the cocaine flights, and on appealing his sentence, three judges of the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal decided the criminality of Chalmers' offending had been greater than originally thought.

Chalmers, who has since been released from prison, told the book's authors that his sentence was about drug addiction, not about a play hard culture in the banking industry and it was 'a problem across the board'.

Chilean trip scandal

Described by The Millionaires' Factory as 'one of the weirdest scandals to rock Macquarie', were the allegations made on a trip to Chile.

The report alleged two Macquarie Bank colleagues drugged another with valium and laxatives during a business trip to the South American country more than a decade ago.

Not reported until 2017, the story included photos of the alleged victim with a smiley face and joke moustache drawn in black on the unconscious man's face.

Within hours of the prank, emails circulated among Macquarie stockbrokers in Melbourne and Sydney said in a mock threat 'don't fark with me, u end up down the rabbit hole'

ASIC and Ross Hopkins

Last year, the corporate regulator the Australian Securities and Investment Commission took action against Macquarie Bank for for failing to monitor the conduct of third parties, including a convicted financial adviser who embezzled $2.9 million dollars.

Ross Hopkins was not a Macquarie Bank executive, but rather a third-party financial adviser and sole director of QWL, which provided clients with advice on self-managed superannuation funds.

Hopkins stole superannuation funds from 13 clients, and ASIC use his example to attack Macquarie for 'insufficient monitoring' of transactions.

ASIC claimed a fraud monitoring system with manual checks to confirm transactions were legitimate would have prevented and detected unauthorised transactions.

Ross Hopkins was sentenced to six years in prison for ripping off clients' superannuation fees and spending the money on holidays, rent, paying his own credit card debts and repaying personal loans

'Macquarie failed to properly detect and prevent these unauthorised fee transactions, many of which were over $10,000 each,' ASIC said, 'Mr Hopkins' conduct is an example of what can go wrong when banks do not properly monitor their systems and implement appropriate processes.'

Macquarie remediated Hopkins' clients approximately $3.5m.

Between October, 2016 and October, 2019, Hopkins had exercised almost complete control of his clients' super which allowed him to transact on their accounts.

He used his clients' funds for holidays, rent, paying his own credit card debts and repaying personal loans.

Hopkins was banned from financial services last year and sentenced to six years in prison.
A retired Navy senior chief petty officer has said that he witnessed a metallic orb in Afghanistan similar to the one that was displayed in a video during a recent Senate hearing.

However, due to security agreements and the fear of legal consequences, he is unable to come forward with more detailed information.

The retired Navy senior chief, whose identity continues to remain anonymous has said there is a need for a secure method for individuals to report potential unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

'I'm going to be honest with you. I'd love to tell everything in detail, but I'm not willing to go to jail to do it,' the retired Navy senior chief told Fox News. 'I'm constrained because of security agreements, so they need a way for submissions to be made.'

According to the retired Navy senior, he along with other military service members observed a metallic orb from above in Afghanistan in the early 2000s.

But being constrained by security protocols it means the materials that were collected are unable to be shared and analyzed.

A retired Navy senior chief petty officer revealed how he witnessed a metallic orb in Afghanistan similar to one seen in a video during a recent Senate hearing

Due to security agreements and the fear of legal consequences, he is unable to come forward with more detailed information and has remained anonymous

Last month, Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick of DOD's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office spoke of the challenges of prioritizing and identifying unidentified aerial phenomena

'There's quite a bit of gray here, because the customer we were working for at the time retained all collected materials but I know where the bodies are buried, not necessarily where the digital data is though. I can point them in the right direction,' the Navy retiree stated.

The very lack of such a secure reporting mechanism was criticized by lawmakers from both parties following the April 19 hearing of the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) before the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities.

The AARO, an agency within the US Office of the Secretary of Defense, investigates unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), the U.S. government's term for UFOs.

During last month's hearing, Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, the head of the agency, presented video clips but noted that the available data was insufficient to fully identify the events captured, simply describing them as 'unresolved cases.'

'This is essentially all the data we have of this event,' Kirkpatrick stated. 'It's going to be virtually impossible to fully identify that, just based off that video.'

Kirkpatrick said his office is currently tracking 650 cases.

Video captured the silver orb moving rapidly through the air with no logical explanation

The object was tracked by a drone flying through the air at vast speed - yet there has never been any conclusion as to what it was

Last month, a hearing into UFOs showed video of an 'unresolved' case in the Middle East, where a drone picked up a 'metallic orb'

Last month's hearing featured video of two events studied by an office that tracks UFOs

A Chinese spy balloon drifts to the ocean after being shot down off the South Carolina coast in February

Last month a hearing showed video of an 'unresolved' case in the Middle East, where a drone picked up a 'metallic orb'

In response to the hearing, Democratic Senator Mark Warner and Republican Marco Rubio penned a letter to the Department of Defense (DOD) expressing their concerns there is no secure process for witnesses of UFOs to come forward safely.

Speaking to Fox, Rubio acknowledged the public's concerns regarding unidentified objects in the country's airspace and near facilities.

Rubio referred to February's incident in which the Biden Administration shot down Chinese spy balloons and three other UAPs, emphasizing the need for transparency and information sharing with Congress.

Rubio said that not only are the American public lacking information about such incidents, but lawmakers responsible for oversight are also being denied critical details.

'What's worse, our government spent too many years ignoring or downplaying the threat. Thankfully, that is beginning to change, but as we saw earlier this year, the defense and intelligence communities are still struggling.'

During April's hearing, the video, shot from an MQ-9 Reaper drone in the Middle East in 2022, pans across desert scrub, over buildings, vehicles and people, struggling to keep up with a spherical object zooming over their heads.

It is very similar to Reaper drone videos currently held on classified servers, described by an intelligence official to DailyMail.com last October, of 'orbs' flying around then 'suddenly bolting off the screen'.

It is also similar to a drone camera image dubbed the 'Mosul Orb', leaked to documentarian Jeremy Corbell and first reported by DailyMail.com earlier this year, of a metallic-looking spherical object over an Iraqi city.

Kirkpatrick revealed statistics gleaned from AARO's UFO cases from 1996 to the present day, describing typically-reported UAP characteristics including round, atypical orientation; 1-4 meter size; white, silver and translucent color; altitudes of 10,000 to 30,000 ft; and speeds ranging from stationary to Mach 2 (1,534 mph).

Typically there was no thermal exhaust detected from the objects and they were caught only intermittently on 8-12 GHz radar and 1-3 GHz or 8-12 GHz radio.

Kirkpatrick presented a map of reported-UAP hotspots showing concentrations on the US East and West coasts, the Middle East around Iraq, and the Sea of Japan between Japan, South Korea and North Korea.

However, he cautioned that this could be a collection bias  as these are locations where the US military has the most assets to catch UFOs on camera and radar.

32.2% of AAROs cases flew at 20,000 ft, and 23.5% at 25,000 ft. Only 4.3% were spotted above 30,000 ft.

52% were described as orbs, round or sphere, and 23% they were unable to determine the shape due to ambiguous sensor contact.

Despite some of the most famous recent cases involving sightings by Navy pilots of the East and West coasts of the US, only 1% of cases were described as having a TicTac shape, and 2% cylinder.

2% had a disk shape and 2% triangular.

The veteran intelligence officer and physicist told senators his office will follow scientific evidence wherever it leads.

'This is a hunt mission for: what might somebody be doing in our backyard that we dont know about,' Fitzpatrick said of his office's mission. He has dozens of scientists at work on case files.
Government agencies were aware of risks to two brothers living with disabilities well before they were found malnourished and locked in a bedroom when their father died, a royal commission hearing has been told.

Then aged 17 and 19, the boys given the pseudonyms Kaleb and Jonathon were found unclothed in a bare room with the door handles removed when emergency services arrived in May 2020, counsel assisting the Disability Royal Commission Kate Eastman told the Brisbane hearing.

In her opening submission on Monday, Ms Eastman said it would be open for commissioners to find Kaleb and Jonathan experienced violence and the deprivation of their rights while in their father's care.

The Brisbane hearing was told that after their father died two boys were found unclothed in a bare room with the door handles removed

'Secondly, we will submit that the violence, abuse, neglect and deprivation of human rights Kaleb and Jonathan experienced was preventable,' Ms Eastman said.

'There is nothing about Kaleb or Jonathan's age, disability or their personal circumstances that made it inevitable that they should individually or together experience violence, abuse, neglect or a deprivation of their human rights.'

A former neighbour told commissioners that despite having no experience with people with severe disability, she developed ways to communicate with the two teenagers.

When they were locked in their room for the day, she would play relaxation music and sometimes whistle through the window.

'They're just lovely ... I understood what trauma feels like and what it feels like to be abused,' she said.

'I understood them.'

She would sometimes help care for the boys, and described a general sense of squalor in their home that had no hot water and a bare bedroom aside from a blow-up mattress.

'Kaleb would have red ... and swollen legs from curling up to be warm in winter,' she said.

The neighbour agreed she tried to encourage the father to get outside support, and recalled her surprise when workers from the Department of Housing didn't go inside during two separate inspections.

'He did tell me at one point that if Child Services came, all you had to do is fill up your fridge,' she said.

At the time of their father's death, Kaleb was participating on the NDIS but Jonathon was not.

Their father was worried he would lose a carer's pension if he accessed NDIS funding for Jonathon, commissioners were told.

His financial records were examined as part of preparations for the Royal Commission hearing, showing he relied on government support.

The violence, abuse, neglect and deprivation of human rights that Kaleb and Jonathan experienced was 'preventable' said counsel assisting the Disability Royal Commission Kate Eastman

His spending included a high level of cash withdrawals which were spent on alcohol, cigarettes and gambling.

Queensland government agencies were aware of potential risk factors in 2000 when Kaleb was born, Ms Eastman said.

His parents accommodation was described as 'questionable and unstable' and he was identified as a child at risk of neglect, spending about two years in foster care.

Kaleb was later returned before Jonathan was born in March 2003. By 2004 their father had sole care of both boys.

Among the dozens of interactions between the family and Queensland government agencies between June 2000 and May 2020, there were 30 occasions when concerns about neglect were either raised or recorded.

A total of 19 Child Protection notifications were made to the Department of Child Safety, and there were three occasions when a risk evaluation deemed the family's risk as 'very high'.

Queensland government representatives are expected to respond on Wednesday.
ABC's medical expert Norman Swan was quick to brush aside a global health agency's declaration the Covid pandemic is over.

Appearing on ABC TV Dr Swan refuted a suggestion that the World Health Organisation's declaration of an end to the global Covid emergency means the pandemic is officially over.

'Its not the official end of the pandemic,' Dr Swan sternly shot back.

'The World Health Organisation was very clear. This was not an announcement that the pandemic was over.

'This was an announcement that the emergency response and the funding flows is over, which most countries have done anyway, but the pandemic is not over.

'The director general of the World Health Organisation was very clear that countries should not stop their Covid response.'

ABC medical pundit Norman Swan (pictured) was very quick to refute suggestions the Covid pandemic is "officially over'

On Friday WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said: 'It's with great hope that I declare COVID over as a global health emergency.'

However, he warned the virus still posed a threat in developing countries that did not have access to vaccines.

However, the UN body says it is time for other countries to treat Covid as they do other infectious diseases.

Predating the WHO announcement, US President Joe Biden said Covid will no longer be treated as a public health emergency from May 11.

Dr Swan, who hosts a weekly Coronacast podcast dedicated to covering Covid, pointed out that despite the overwhelming majority of Australians being vaccinated the virus continues to take lives.

'Last year Covid was the third leading cause of death in Australia,' he said.

'The excess deaths in January this year from the Actuaries Institute is 8 per cent so 1,100 people in that month died of Covid and Covid-related diseases who might not otherwise have died.'

'Its still around, its still a problem.'

According to the Australian Bureau Statistics the excess deaths in January were 12.4 per cent above the expected baseline amounting to 1,605 people passing away.

Of those 704 of those were doctor certified due to Covid.

According to the Actuaries Institute out of the 1,100 deaths they considered to be excess, 760 deaths were from Covid, which represents two-thirds of the total.

Nine's chairman and former Treasurer Peter Costello on Tuesday slammed Australia for 'overreacting' to Covid and subjecting residents to 'draconian' and 'unnecessary' restrictions.

Peter Costello, who was a prominent treasurer under Liberal PM John Howard, said governments across Australia went 'too far' when they shut down workplaces and implemented daily curfews in 2020 and 2021.

Mr Costello said not even during World War II had Australians been forced to stay inside their homes past 9pm.

'You'll look back on it and you'll say, 'how did we put up with that infringement on individual liberty,' he told YouTube channel.

Hangovers from the pandemic period are gradually being erased as the cost of the staggering cost of measures to stop the virus come to light.

It has been estimated the Covid virus claimed seven million lives worldwide although the figure is likely to be higher, according to the World Health Organisation

NSW is moving to shut the 165 Covid mass testing clinics across the state, which will save $66 million a year.

The move follows Daily Mail Australia reporting fewer than 100 tests were being conducted at each site per day with staff spending most of their time bored on their phones.

In West Australia there are huge of stockpiles of rapid antigen tests (RATs) that the state has been struggling to even give away with stalls being set up in shopping centres to pass them out.

WA's Auditor-General Caroline Spencer slammed the waste of $580 million on the single use diagnostic tests and pointed out two hospitals could have been built for less than that amount.

Dr Swan's gloomy views and fixation on Covid have not been without controversy.

He had to apologise last year after falsely claiming Labor senator Kimberley Kitching's death of suspected heart issues was likely Covid-related.

The Senator, who was 52 when she died, had never contracted Covid according to her furious family.

The ABC admitted Dr Swan's remarks breached its editorial standards and cautioned him during discussions with the broadcaster's management.

Dr Swan has also faced criticism for relentless doomsday predictions and for exaggerating the untreatable nature of Covid.

Dr Swan was forced into a red-faced apology after he falsely claimed Labor senator Kimberly Kitching's (pictured right centre) death was Covid-related

He claimed Australia's health system would collapse within days of Covid's outbreak in 2020, that the virus was vaccine-resistant and said the protection from masks was 'very small'.

Dr Swan repeatedly called for lockdowns and dismissed the efficacy of vaccines even branding those who took them as 'guinea pigs'.

Despite this he was awarded he was awarded a member of the Order of Australia in January's honours list 'for significant service to the broadcast media as a science and health commentator'.

Covid is estimated to have killed at least seven million people across the world but Dr Tedros said the pandemic is more likely to have caused around 20million deaths  due to reporting issues and testing inconsistencies.
Another Dallas shooting has left one person dead and two people injured just a day after eight people were killed at a mall in Allen - this time onboard the city's high-speed DART train.

The fatal altercation unfolded around 4:30 pm Sunday in South Dallas aboard a northbound Green Line train near Hatcher Station, and reportedly stemmed from a disagreement between two passengers.

In total, two people were shot, a spokesperson for the light rail system said Sunday evening, including a bystander, DART spokesperson Gordon Shattles told CNN. They were both taken to a Dallas hospital where one of them died.

Cops added that a third victim, believed to have been struck by shrapnel, was treated at the scene. The police force that presides over the DART system's four lines and 65 stations are now leading the search for the suspect - who is still at large.

It happened one day after mall shooter Mauricio Garcia left eight dead in the small Dallas suburb of Allen, at an outdoor outlet when the 33-year-old unleashed more than 100 rounds of ammunition from his AR-15 style rifle.

The scene at Hatcher Station DART Light Rail station located in Dallas, Texas

Dashcam footage from Saturday's shooting showed Garcia pulling up to the store in a Dodge Charger, before opening fire, striking and killing right people including children.

The footage - as well as photos of the late shooter after he was subdued - showed him to be dressed in full tactical gear, with an additional handgun and multiple magazines.

He was eventually killed by the unnamed police officer - who was on the scene for an unrelated call but rushed over when he heard the gunshots outside the H&M.

Garcia was a security guard, but it is unclear if he worked at Allen Premium Outlets - or if had any connection to them at all.

On Sunday, sources told WFAA that Garcia had experience in US military, serving in the U.S. Army in 2008 before being removed over mental health concerns.

Garcia also apparently had several social media accounts active before the shooting, that have seeming been scrubbed amid state and federal officials' ongoing investigation.

The profiles, the sources said, showed the Dallas citizen's preference for neo-Nazi and white supremacist content, as officials have still yet to release the names of his eight victims, or the condition of at least seven others injured.

One of the eight victims, 20-year-old Christian LaCour, was identified Sunday by a post to relative's Facebook.

Mauricio Garcia the suspected neo-Nazi sympathizer who killed eight at an Allen, Texas, shopping mall - seen here after being shot dead by a hero cop

Christian LaCour, 20, was the first of Garcia's victims to be identified on Sunday. His grandmother described him as 'such a beautiful soul'

Multiple sources identified Garcia as the Allen Outlet mall shooter Sunday, after the massacre Saturday afternoon. Aerial photos show the incident's fatalities, which included children

Officials overseeing the investigation have yet to name any the deceased, though one victim, 20-year-old Christian LaCour, was identified Sunday by a post to relative's Facebook

Other footage and snaps taken at the scene, meanwhile, help piece together what exactly transpired at the outdoor mall - with the first shots being fired outside the H&M, before the gunman was killed by an Allen PD officer a few stores away

A Farmersville resident who also worked as a security guard, LaCour was mourned by his grandmother Sandra Montgomery who said she was 'so proud of him'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

LaCour's sisters mother-in-law also wrote: 'Words can not even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels,' she said in the post. '[There] will forever be a void.'

At least one of the others killed by Garcia was a child, according to witness accounts, before he was shot dead himself at the crowded outlets sometime after 3pm.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen discusses "U.S.-China Economic Relationship" during a forum hosted by the Johns Hopkins University at the Nitze Building in Washington, U.S., April 20. Reuters-Yonhap



Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Sunday that there are "no good options" for the United States to avoid an economic "calamity" if Congress fails to raise the nation's borrowing limit of $31.381 trillion in the coming weeks. She did not rule out President Joe Biden bypassing lawmakers and acting on his own to try to avert a first-ever federal default.



Her comments added even more urgency to a high-stakes meeting Tuesday between Biden and congressional leaders from both parties.



Democrats and Republicans are at loggerheads over whether the debt limit should even be the subject of negotiation. GOP lawmakers, led by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California, are demanding spending cuts in return for raising the borrowing limit, while Biden has said the threat of default shouldn't be used as leverage in budget talks.



Yellen, interviewed on ABC's "This Week," painted a dire picture of what might happen if the borrowing limit is not increased before the Treasury Department runs out of what it calls "extraordinary measures" to operate under the current cap. That time, she said, is expected to come in early June, perhaps as soon as June 1.



"Whether it's defaulting on interest payments that are due on the debt or payments due for Social Security recipients or to Medicare providers, we would simply not have enough cash to meet all of our obligations," she said. "And it's widely agreed that financial and economic chaos would ensue."



An increase in the debt limit would not authorize new federal spending. It would only allow borrowing to pay for what Congress has already approved.



Biden's White House meeting with McCarthy, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., will be the first substantive talks between Biden and McCarthy in months.



House Republicans on April 26 passed a bill that would raise the debt limit but impose significant federal spending cuts. But those cuts are unlikely to win the support of all Republicans in the Democratic-controlled Senate, and Biden has said he will only negotiate about government spending once Congress takes the risk of default off the table.



Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema , an independent who left the Democratic Party in December, encouraged Biden and McCarthy to meet each other half way.



"There's not going to be just a simple clean debt limit  the votes don't exist for that," she told CBS's "Face the Nation." "So the sooner these two guys get in the room and listen to what the other one needs, the more likely they are to solve this challenge and protect the full faith and credit of the United States of America."





President Joe Biden talks with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of Calif., as they walk down the House steps as they leave after attending an annual St. Patrick's Day luncheon gathering at the Capitol in Washington, March 17. AP-Yonhap
A former federal prosecutor brought forward a bribery allegation involving Joe Biden and an unnamed foreign national back in 2018, a full two years before charges were brought by a whistleblower now speaking to the House Oversight Committee.

Bud Cummins, a former federal prosecutor, made the accusation to US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Geoff Berman back on October 4, 2018, dating to Biden's term as vice president, according to interviews and documents obtained by Just the News.

He wrote Berman an email claiming to have evidence President Biden 'exercised influence to protect' son Hunter's Ukrainian employers 'in exchange for payments' to both father and son as well as Hunter's friend and business partner Devon Archer.

Cummins claimed that then Ukrainian Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko had wanted to go to the United States to meet him and could give Berman two anonymous witnesses to back up the allegations.

'I can't really imagine a legitimate reason for the DOJ not to follow up on an offer like that. I felt like it was stonewalled,' said Cummins.

Bud Cummins, a former federal prosecutor, made the accusation to US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Geoff Berman back on October 4, 2018

The Republican accusations marks a significant update in the Republican 'influence-peddling' probe into the Biden family and Hunter's overseas business deals

'It doesn't make much sense to investigate the guy who brings you the allegation rather than the allegation,' he added.

Berman, Cummins claims, never responded to the emails and even went as far as to obtain data from his iPhone via a grand jury subpoena to Apple.

The former federal prosecutor said it was 'perverse that you report an allegation of a pretty serious crime and they dont investigate [it] but they were investigating you.'

Cummins allegedly came forward with stunning claims that a file 'includes a precise description of how the alleged criminal scheme (involving Biden) was employed as well as its purpose', top GOP members of the House and Senate have said.

It is a significant update in the Republican 'influence-peddling' probe into the Biden family and come just hours after a report said prosecutors were close to deciding whether to criminally charge Hunter Biden in his tax and gun probes.

The House Oversight Committee has accused multiple members of the Biden family - including Hunter and Hallie - were involved in 'shady' business deals where they profited off of the family name.

'We believe the FBI possesses an unclassified internal document that includes very serious and detailed allegations implicating the current President of the United States,' Grassley said.

'What we dont know is what, if anything, the FBI has done to verify these claims or investigate further. The FBIs recent history of botching politically charged investigations demands close congressional oversight.'

Cummins wrote Berman an email claiming to have evidence President Biden 'exercised influence to protect' son Hunter's Ukrainian employers

The bribes allegedly involved using influence on employers 'in exchange for payments' to both father and son as well as Hunter's friend and business partner Devon Archer

Senator Chuck Grassley and Rep. James Comer issued a subpoena to FBI Director Chris Wray Wednesday demanding the 'FD-1023 form'

In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI Director Chris Wray Wednesday obtained by DailyMail.com, the top Republicans state that due to 'credible' whistleblower disclosures, they are seeking access to an internal 'FBI-generated FD-1023 form' through a subpoena.

The form allegedly details an 'arrangement' between Biden and an unnamed foreigner for an exchange of money for policy decisions, they say.

'We have received legally protected and highly credible unclassified whistleblower disclosures. Based on those disclosures, it has come to our attention that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) possess an unclassified FD-1023 form that describes an alleged criminal scheme involving then-Vice President Biden and a foreign national relating to the exchange of money for policy decisions,' the senators write.

'It has been alleged that the document includes a precise description of how the alleged criminal scheme was employed as well as its purpose.'

The lawmakers say that it 'remains unclear what steps, if any, were taken to investigate the matter,' which is concerning due to the 'significant public interest' in the FBI's response.

They also say that there is is concern among Americans due to the 'FBI's track record of allowing political bias to infect their decision-making process, necessitate exacting congressional oversight.'

According to the subpoena, Wray has until May 10 to turn over the documents.

The subpoena specifically instructs the FBI director to produce 'all FD-1023 forms, including within any open, closed, or restricted access case files, created or moderated in June 2020, containing the term 'Biden,' including all accompanying attachments and documents to those FD-1023 forms.'

The action by the Republicans signal they are stepping up the ongoing probe into the Biden family's business dealings, including Hunter (right)

'The information provided by a whistleblower raises concerns that then-Vice President Biden allegedly engaged in a bribery scheme with a foreign national,' Comer said Wednesday

'The information provided by a whistleblower raises concerns that then-Vice President Biden allegedly engaged in a bribery scheme with a foreign national,' Comer added in a statement.

'The American people need to know if President Biden sold out the United States of America to make money for himself. Senator Grassley and I will seek the truth to ensure accountability for the American people,' the chairman continued.

DailyMail.com reached out to the FBI for comment. A DOJ spokesperson said the department has received the letter, but declined to comment further.

Ian Sams, White House spokesperson for oversight and investigations posted a response to Twitter calling the GOP action 'unfounded' and 'politically motivated.'

'For going on 5 years now, Republicans in Congress have been lobbing unfounded politically-motivated attacks against [President Biden] without offering evidence for their claims. Or evidence of decisions influenced by anything other than U.S. interests,' he claimed.

'Thats because they prefer floating anonymous innuendo, amplified by the megaphone of their allies in rightwing media, to get attention and try to distract and deflect from their own unpopular ideas and lack of solutions to the issues the American people actually care about,' Sams added in a statement to DailyMail.com.

'When it comes to President Bidens personal finances, anybody can take a look: he has offered an unprecedented level of transparency, releasing a total of 25 years of tax returns to the American public.'

The action by the Republicans signal they are stepping up the ongoing probe into the Biden family's business dealings.

Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., called the whistleblower's claim an 'unbelievably serious allegation.'

The Republican added during an interview on Fox News Wednesday: 'we've got the onion in front of us and we're peeling off layers bit by bit,' he said of the larger Biden family corruption probe.

Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz, simply stated on Twitter: 'The walls are closing in on Biden.'

As part of the ever-growing investigations against Hunter Biden, Republicans on the House Oversight Committee have also reviewed IRS documents and Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) they claim prove that the Biden family corruption and influence peddling has benefitted at least 12 family members.

Comer said last month that there won't be anyone 'left for a Christmas picture' because the 'entire Biden family' is entrapped in the financial enrichment scheme.

According to the SARs reviewed by Comer's committee, he previously confirmed President Biden's brother Jim Biden and his son Beau's widow Hallie Biden benefited from the foreign business deals.

Another whistleblower from the IRS recently came forward claiming that a senior Biden administration official interfered with the DOJ's special counsel probe into Hunter Biden led by U.S. Attorney David Weiss of Delaware.

DailyMail.com previously confirmed that the 'senior official' in question is Garland.

Garland has vouched for the independence Weiss, and testified in Congress that the probe is being conducted impartially.

'He has been advised he is not to be denied anything he needs,' Garland told the Senate Judiciary Committee recently. 'I have not heard anything from that office to suggest that they are not able to do everything the U.S. attorney wants to do.'

Weiss is reportedly close to wrapping up the four-year-long investigation into the president's son's alleged tax and gun crimes.

The U.S. attorney met with officials at DOJ headquarters in Washington, D.C., last week - another signal that the probe may be wrapping up soon.
The Greens have slammed Anthony Albanese's government accusing it of catering to the 'top end of town' as it prepares to hand down its first full federal budget.

The Prime Minister and Treasurer Jim Chalmers have talked up $14.6billion worth of cost of living measures ahead of the release of the budget on Tuesday.

Power bill relief and Jobseeker increases 'across the board' are just some of the benefits expected to be announced tomorrow.

While the Prime Minister and Treasurer Jim Chalmers talked up $14.6billion worth of cost of living measures, the Greens claim the 2023-24 budget will be a let down to at-risk households

The Greens have lashed out claiming the 2023-24 budget will be a let down for Australia's most vulnerable households.

Greens leader Adam Bandt accused the government of not doing enough to increase welfare payments and slow rental increases.

He argued the budget would most benefit people who are already financially secure.

'Labors budget will spend more on tax breaks for wealthy property investors with multiple properties than it will on its cost of living packages,' he said.

The government's planned stage three tax cuts, which are due to come into effect in 2024, are set to be a key sticking point for its opponents.

Under the policy introduced by the Morrison government, people on incomes of up to $200,000 will all pay less tax.

Labor has said it will not abandon the former government's stage three tax cuts policy.

Mr Bandt says the Albanese government should be freezing rents, focusing more on reducing poverty and ensuring gas companies pay fairer taxes.

While the budget is the main game, Labor is also seeking the support of the Greens and crossbenchers to secure the passage of its Housing Australia Future Fund Bill.

That bill holds the key to a $10billion plan to improve social and affordable housing as the Senate debates government legislation this week.

The fund's earnings will help deliver 30,000 new social and affordable homes over five years.

The government wants a vote on the bill before the Senate rises on Thursday.

While Labor will have the support of independents, the Greens are holding out for a more ambitious plan.

Mr Bandt said it would be a 'terrible idea' for the government to force a vote on the bill.

The Greens have slammed Anthony Albanese's government, accusing it of catering to the 'top end of town' as it prepares to hand down its first full federal budget (Pictured, centre: Adam Bandt)

Anthony Albanese has said his government will not abandon the former government's stage three tax cuts policy (Pictured, Anthony Albanese and partner Jodie Haydon at right)

'It would be much better for the government to put their effort into negotiating improvements to the bill so that it can pass, because that is something the Greens are willing to do,' he said.

Mr Bandt said the legislation in its current form did not have the support of his party, which wanted to see action on the rental crisis and significant spending on housing.

Independent senator Tammy Tyrrell, who secured a floor in the program of 1,200 homes for every state and territory, said the Greens could end up delivering 'nothing'.

'The Greens need to back in the Housing Australia Future Fund,' she said.

Another key item for debate will be laws to set up Jobs and Skills Australia and improve protections of and access to worker entitlements, including for superannuation and parental leave.

Labor will head into the budget sittings with a solid lead over the Liberal-National coalition in opinion polls, and its newest MP Mary Doyle will be sworn in as the member for Aston on Tuesday.

Ms Doyle will deliver her first speech on Thursday.

Former minister and Fadden MP Stuart Robert is expected to address parliament following his retirement announcement over the weekend.

The resignation will trigger a by-election in the Gold Coast seat, with local businesswoman Fran Ward considered the frontrunner to be endorsed as the LNP's candidate.

The parliament will mark the passing of a number of significant Australians, including Indigenous leader Yunupingu, former ministers John Kerin and Stewart West, and social justice campaigner Father Bob Maguire.

On Monday morning, Mr Albanese confirmed he will raise the age for the single parenting payment in the Budget.

Single parents will now be entitled to financial support on the Parenting Payment (Single) until their child is 14 in a commitment worth $1.9 billion.

Centrelink's JobSeeker payments may be increased by up to $40 a fortnight.
The teacher was placed on leave pending an investigation by the school board

'Go back to wherever that Spanish-speaking country is and speak it,' they said

A teacher in Virginia told a Spanish-speaking student they had to speak English

A middle school teacher in Virginia has been suspended after being captured on video telling a Hispanic student she was only allowed to speak English in class.

In a leaked recording, which was eventually broadcast on a Hispanic radio station, the unidentified teacher can be heard telling the pupil they were not allowed to speak in Spanish.

The incident happened at Boushall Middle School in Richmond, Virginia, where 44 percent of students are Hispanic and 38 percent are learning English, according to local station WRIC.

The shocking recording shows the girl telling her teacher Spanish is her native language, before the teacher responds: 'Right, well go back to wherever that Spanish-speaking country is and speak it.

'When you in America you gonna speak English in the classes that are spoken here.'

The teacher was suspended from the school last week as the school board has said it is investigating.

The student's mother said she was concerned that although the teacher was placed on leave she was concerned they may be able to come back. Angry teachers are pictured addressing the school board last week

The incident happened at Boushall Middle School in Richmond, Virginia, where 44 percent of students are Hispanic and 38 percent are learning English

'My native language is Spanish, so I can talk in Spanish,' the student had said before being cut off by her teacher.

During the confrontation, the student said she 'didn't know speaking my own language was wrong,' to which the teacher said that other students who speak French or Russian are also required to speak English in the classroom.

The teacher's comments first received attention after the video went viral last month on social media groups and was eventually played on the radio.

A transcript suggests the teacher told the student that her mother could come to the classroom and that she would also be spoken to in English.

'Your father doesn't pay my salary, the State of Virginia does,' said the teacher, according to the transcript, which was shared by NBC12.

After the student says something 'inaudible', the teacher says: 'Well she can come up here all day and I'll speak English when I see her. And she's going to speak English too. Period. You act like your mom own the world, c'mon now.'

'I didn't say she owned the world,' replied the student.

'I know but that is very ignorant of you to throw up your mom as if it's going to change the rules in my class. English is spoken in this class. Period,' said the teacher, according to the transcript.

'Your father doesn't pay my salary, the State of Virginia does,' the teacher told the student, according to a transcript shared by NBC12

In an interview since the incident, the student, who wanted to remain anonymous, said she didn't want other Hispanic students to experience the same thing.

'I just wanted that no other Hispanic kid would go through the same thing that I did,' she told NBC12.

'I told one of my friends, oh, you don't have friends in Spanish because we joke around like that, and that teacher started yelling at me, telling me I couldn't speak Spanish,' the student said.

'She just kept saying that it just wasn't allowed in here in America you speak English, and if I wanted to speak Spanish, then to go to wherever that Spanish-speaking country is,' she added.

The mother of the student said despite the suspension of the teacher she was worried they would be able to come back.

'I just don't trust to send my student to a school where a teacher is treating my daughter that way,' the mother told NBC12.

Richmond Public Schools provided a statement on the incident and confirmed the teacher was placed on leave

Richmond Public Schools provided a statement on the incident and confirmed the teacher was placed on leave.

'Racism, bigotry, and intolerance of any kind will not be tolerated at Richmond Public Schools,' read the statement.

'The employee is currently on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation by the Employee Relations team.

'While we can not comment further on personnel matters, please know that RPS happily serves a diverse group of students across many races and nationalities.

'We will continue to support and advocate for them all.'
A mother-of-two who survived the Dallas mall shooting has revealed a hero store worker sacrificed her life to save a dozen shoppers who she hid inside a closet.

Racquel Lee was one of thousands present at Allen Premium Outlets Saturday when 33-year-old gunman Mauricio Garcia shot dead eight victims.

She began her impromptu shopping trip by pulling up to the same H&M store where Garcia would arrive in his own car moments later and open fire. Lee said it 'sounded like a warzone' as frantic shoppers started fleeing from the hail of bullets.

In the chaos that ensued, the unnamed store associate gathered a frantic Lee and 12 others, including several children, and hid them inside the store's bathroom closet. The worker then left the group, and Lee hours later was escorted out by police.

On her way out, Lee recalled realizing that among the mass of 'bullets and bodies' outside, was the same store worker that hid her barely an hour before.

Scroll down for video:

Appearing for a video interview Sunday, mom-of-two Racquel Lee described how the shooting Saturday interrupted her impromptu shopping trip, and how she and 12 others were rescued by a store worker who selflessly hid them in a closet during the gunman's rampage

The shooting happened at the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, a small suburb north of Dallas, and saw at least eight people killed. The mom said she began her shopping trip by pulling up to the this H&M - the store where the hero staffer worked, and where the shooting began

In the chaos that ensued, the unnamed store associate gathered a frantic Lee and the others - which included several children - and hid them inside the store's bathroom closet. The worker then left the group, and Lee hours later was escorted out by police.

'The store associate saved our lives,' Lee tearfully told CBS News Texas Sunday, ultimately cutting the interview short after becoming too emotional.

'I was crouching down, like, "I hope we don't get hit by a bullet,"' the near-victim added of when the gunfire began.'

Earlier in the interview, Lee explained how she parked her White SUV in front of the H&M where the gunman was seen arriving and opening fire on a group that included children.

Lee said that immediately, even inside the store, she and other shoppers recognized they were gun shots and ran for cover.

'The gunshots  it sounded like a warzone,' she recalled. 'It was horrifying and it felt like you were in a dream.'

She went on to detail how once inside the closet, she and others seen in footage shared by the mom with CBS desperately tried to refrain from crying in fear the gunman would find them.

She said people were also trying to call emergency responders, but did not have service in the restroom closet.

'We were in a bathroom closet, and we were just in the closet trying not be heard, crying, praying - people were trying to call 911, we couldn't dial out.'

She tearfully added: 'I just remembered thinking  Oh god, he's coming in here next.'

Fortunately for her and others hiding out in the restroom, Garcia - a suspected Neo-Nazi and Dallas resident - was killed by an Allen PD officer who happened to be on the scene and also heard the gunshots.

The killer had fired more than 100 times, and had more ammunition and weapons in his car, when he was shot dead.

After the shooter was subdued, Lee was among hundreds of others escorted off the premises by local and state cops, who discovered her and the others while doing a sweep of each of the outlet's stores.

Her recollection of the events that unfolded Saturday afternoon come on the heels of other accounts detailing others' selfless deeds that perhaps saved lives during the shooting.

The motive and the name of the shooter, 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, remains unknown, though dashcam footage showed the moment a gunman opened fire and killed multiple civilians

In another disturbing snippet, the gunman is seen laying dead outside another Allen store on a few dozen feet from the H&M. He is seen dressed in tactile gear, with a semi-automatic rile at his side

The shooting happened at the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, a small suburb north of Dallas, and saw at least eight people killed. At least one of those slain was a child, though thanks to the unnamed H&M workers efforts, several other youngsters were saved

A man who witnessed the outlet mall shooting firsthand, Allen resident Steven Spainhouer, recalled being one of the first people on the scene - rushing to rescue his son from a clothing store where the now-deceased gunman's attack started.

At least one of those slain, Spainhouer recalled, was a child, whom he desperately tried to save after rushing to the H&M - where his own son had been working.

Shortly before, around 3:30pm Spainhouer received a frantic call from his son notifying him that there had been shots fired outside the shop, with his relative still trapped inside.

As that was going on, and prior to other officers' arrival, Spainhouer - who is trained in CPR - attempted to resuscitate multiple people struck by the gunman's initial hail of gunfire, including three he said were already beyond saving.

'The first girl I walked up to was crouched down covering her head in the bushes, so I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side and she had no face,' he said of the first victim he came across, a young girl.

Still set on saving the mess of victims, Spainhouer recalled how he then found another child, who survived the barrage of bullets by being covered by his protective mother, who he said was among eight to die by the gunman.

'When I rolled the mother over, he came out,' Spainhouer said, speaking to CBS reporter JD Miles just a few hundred yards from where the carnage was seen only a few hours before.

'I asked him if he was OK and he said, 'My mom is hurt, my mom is hurt.''

Spainhouer described how he attempted to alleviate the boy's mental anguish by taking away from the grisly scene.

'Rather than traumatize him any more, I pulled him around the corner sat him down and he was covered from head to toe.'

Spainhouer added: 'Like somebody poured blood on him.'

Her recollection of the events that unfolded Saturday afternoon come on the heels of other accounts detailing others' selfless deeds that perhaps saved lives, including Allen resident Steven Spanhouer, who recalled being one of the first people on the scene and immediately trying to save those shot outside the H&M, where his son was working at the time

The dutiful dad tried to rescue another victim, but was also unsuccessful. Meanwhile, as important minutes continued to pass, Spainhouer - unaware that the unnamed Allen officer was already on the scene - waited for others to arrive and help him with his efforts.

'I was on the phone with 911 and I was telling them we have a mass casualty incident,' the father said, appearing visibly emotional during the TV interview.

Spainhouer further added that as he and others waited for medical help, local police were forced to transport several of the victims to nearby medical practitioners - as their condition was too severe to wait for an ambulance.

'No one can see what we saw today and not be affected by it,' he said, saying the events of the day would stay with him. 'It's not a situation I would wish upon anybody, it's just unfathomable to see carnage.'

Spainhouer's son also told the station that two customers inside the H&M store were among the at least seven injured.

Spainhouer, meanwhile, while holding back tears, remarked, 'It's tough when you see a family that's out shopping, having fun, get wiped off the face of the Earth because somebody with a gun has some other type of issue.'

As for the hero cop who took down the gunman, he has yet to be named - though new details continue to emerge about the 33-year-old shooter.

What is known is that Garcia lived in a quiet Dallas neighborhood of single family homes in the northeast of the city with his family up until relatively recently, moving to a Budget Inn about 15 miles away, DailyMail.com can reveal.

The one-star hotel is a far cry from the single-story, three-bedroom, two bath 1,331 sq foot home where he up until recently resided with his family, located on a tree lined street roughly 28 miles from the scene of Saturday's carnage.

The home is worth an estimated $275,000, and no one would answer the door when knocked.

However, Sunday afternoon, DailyMail.com spotted a middle-aged woman pacing anxiously in the yard talking on her cell phone. Records show a Carmen Catalan, aged 59, also lives at the address.

Neighbors were more receptive in reporters' inquiries, painting a picture of a man in his thirties, who months ago still lived with his parents and often wore a security-guard uniform.

Christian LaCour, 20, was the first of Garcia's victims to be identified on Sunday. His grandmother described him as 'such a beautiful soul'

The one-star hotel is a far cry from the single-story, three-bed home where he up until recently resided with his family, located on a tree lined street 28 miles from the scene of the shooting. A neighbor described Garcia as 'a normal guy'  but with possible mental issues

However, Sunday afternoon, DailyMail.com spotted a middle-aged woman pacing anxiously in the yard talking on her cell phone. It was not immediately clear if she was the shooter's mother, who neighbors said does not speak English. Garcia has not lived there for months

A neighbor, who did not want to be identified, described Garcia as 'appearing like a normal guy'  but having possible mental issues.

He recalled: 'We spoke cordially in passing. He appeared to be just a normal guy. He would just leave for work and return, nothing out of the ordinary.

'His mother doesn't speak English, but he did, like you or I would. He seemed just like a very good kid. Always polite, friendly, but perhaps a bit mentally slow - just in the way he spoke and responded. It was a distinct impression I got.'

Garcia, however, hasn't lived at the home for several months, neighbors said - instead taking up residence at the Budget Inn on North Stemmons Freeway, just a few blocks from the University of Dallas.

That did not stop federal officials from showing up at the doorstep of his family's home in the northeast suburb of Piper Hill just an hour and half before the first shots rang out.

'It was about 5pm, when three Dallas police squad cars and the FBI turned up,' the anonymous neighbor said.

He added: 'I never heard any banging on doors or kicking down doors or anything of that nature.

'They engaged in dialogue with the family members as they were leaving - but the family didn't go with them.'

Moreover, law enforcement officials offered insight as to Garcia's character - while confiding to CBS that he had been working as a security guard prior to the massacre.

A next-door neighbor of the suspect, who asked to be identified as Julie, said she told NBC News that she would regularly see Garcia going to and coming home from work every day like clockwork before he moved to the inn.

'He tried to acknowledge us but seemed a little off,' she recalled. 'He wasn't somebody you could carry a conversation with.'

Garcia also apparently had several social media accounts active before the shooting, that have seeming been scrubbed amid state and federal officials' ongoing investigation.

The profiles, the sources said, showed the Dallas citizen's preference for neo-Nazi and white supremacist content, as officials have still yet to release the names of his eight victims, or the condition of at least seven others injured.

One of the eight victims, 20-year-old Christian LaCour, was identified Sunday by a post to relative's Facebook.

A Farmersville resident who also worked as a security guard, LaCour was mourned by his grandmother Sandra Montgomery who said she was 'so proud of him'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

LaCour's sister's mother-in-law also wrote: 'Words can not even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels,' she said in the post. '[There] will forever be a void.'
She is fighting to keep her name hidden in NZ's High Court

Her two children were found in suitcases back in August

A mum has been charged with the murder of her children

A mother who has been charged with the murder of her two children is fighting in court to keep her name hidden.

The bodies of the children were discovered inside abandoned suitcases in Auckland, New Zealand last August.

Following an international manhunt, the children's mother, 42, was extradited from South Korea and charged with murder.

The woman, who has pleaded not guilty to the two charges, faced New Zealand's High Court on Monday.

Her lawyer, Chris Wilkinson-Smith, submitted an application for continued name suppression after Justice Anne Hinton refused to grant suppression back in March.

A mother, 42, has fought to keep her name hidden in New Zealand's High Court as she's charged with the murder of her two children

The appeal was once again made on the basis of extreme hardship and that the publication of the woman's name would risk her safety.

Mr Wilkinson-Smith claimed Justice Hinton did not take proper consideration of health reports when continued suppression was declined.

The prosecution rubbished this assertion, saying the report was taken at its highest by Justice Hinton.

Justice Anne Hinton explained that there was no evident test to prove that the publication of the woman's name would endanger her safety.

'While it sounds harsh, that is the relevant test,' she declared.

'I have not been provided with evidence showing that [the defendant] would likely be severely affected by the publication of her name or that her safety would be endangered.'

Tania Goatley, the lawyer for media publications Stuff, NZME, Discovery and RNZ, opposed the suppression.

The Court of Appeal has reserved its decision.

During an appearance in court last week, the woman said she would prove her innocence as she was led back to her jail cell.

The remains of a boy and girl were only discovered after a storage unit's contents were auctioned online to a family last year

The family opened the suitcases at their home when they discovered the remains of the two children. Police believe the children may have died years prior

The remains of a boy and girl were only discovered after a storage unit's contents were auctioned online to a family last year.

The family opened the suitcases at their home last August when they discovered the remains.

It has been revealed the suitcases were moved between storage units at the SafeStore Papatoetoe facility in Auckland during the second half of 2021, but staff had no reason to suspect there was anything amiss.

The children's mother, a Korean-born New Zealander, was arrested in the South Korean city of Ulsan last September after the Korean Ministry of Justice received a request from New Zealand for her provisional arrest.

Her extradition back to New Zealand was approved in November, where police escorted her home upon her arrival to the country.

She was charged with two counts of murder and faced court less than 24 hours later.

The identities of her two children remain suppressed by the coroner.

The woman's trial is set to go ahead in Auckland next year.
An army of revellers and royal fans donned crowns, Union Jacks and other fancy-dress gear to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III and make the most of the long weekend.

Pubs and clubs across the country were packed out last night long following the end of the King's Coronation Concert that saw stars such as Katy Perry and Lionel Richie perform at Windsor Castle.

While thousands tuned in at home to watch the impressive concert, which saw 20,000 spectators sit alongside the royal family at their estate, on their televisions others chose to spend the night in boozers.

Partygoers in Leeds, Newcastle and Birmingham went for a night out on the town in honour of the royal afterparty, enjoying lukewarm temperatures and avoiding rainy downpours that many faced on Saturday as they celebrated the new monarch in London.

Police in Birmingham were out in force and had to wrestle one man to the ground after he resisted arrest following an earlier incident at a nightclub. Officers attended several other incidents along the infamous strip as tempered flared. One woman was wheeled into an ambulance by paramedics holding onto a sick bag.

It is the second bank holiday weekend of three to take place this month, with workers enjoying the May Bank holiday last weekend and the late May Bank holiday taking place three weeks today.

Three women dressed up ready to go out on bar-filled Greek Street in Leeds city centre

Revellers descended onto Birmingham's Broad Street on Sunday evening for a royal afterparty

West Midlands Police had to wrestle this man to the ground after he resisted arrest following an earlier incident at a nightclub

Revellers descended onto Birmingham's Broad Street on Sunday evening for a royal afterparty

A group of friends enjoy a night out on Birmingham's Broad Street last night to celebrate the last night of the long coronation weekend

Police in Newcastle respond to revellers making the most of the Bank Holiday weekend

A group of revellers in Leeds were pictured in a range of dress-up costumes, including a number of characters from the Nintendo game Mario and Luigi, holding up a large Union Jack flag

Two cheery women head out in Newcastle, as King Charles' coronation continues to raise spirits across the UK

A man wearing fake ears speaks to a girl during a night out in Birmingham yesterday

Two women heading out in Leeds city centre make the most of the extra bank holiday weekend gifted to the public to celebrate the King's Coronation

A bunch of friends head out on a boozy night out in Leeds in fancy dress, including one man dressed as Vicky Pollard from Little Britain and two men dressed as the 118 men

Revellers make the most of the long coronation bank holiday weekend by enjoying a Sunday night out in Newcastle

A group of woman are seen on their night out in Newcastle yesterday as officers monitor the area

Two friends help a seemingly stumbling woman walk on a night out in Birmingham's Broad Street yesterday

A man carries a barefoot girl through Birmingham's Broad Street on a Sunday night out

Two people help a reveller who appears to have fallen ill or injured herself during her night out in Birmingham yesterday

A woman is carried on her friend's back during a night out in Birmingham yesterday

Revellers pose as an officer takes their photograph on a Sunday night out in Newcastle

A group of friends pose for the camera during their Sunday night out in Newcastle

Three girls in going out clothes smile and wave as a photographer snaps their photo during a Sunday night out in Newcastle

Two women, one dressed up wearing a crown while the other looks like a dragon, don a Union Jack as they head out in Leeds

Partygoers in Newcastle made the most of the balmy bank holiday weather as they headed out into the early hours of this morning

Two women pose for the camera as they head out in lukewarm temperatures in Leeds to celebrate the long weekend

Three women in Leeds head out to make the most of the extra May bank holiday weekend

A group of women, and one man, dress up as police officers as they head out for a boozy Sunday night in Leeds
Fears of a nuclear meltdown are growing in Ukraine as Vladimir Putin evacuates towns near Europe's largest nuclear power plant, amid warnings that his troops have placed explosives and artillery at the site.

Moscow has evacuated 1,680 citizens, including 660 children, from areas around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant ahead of Kyiv's much-anticipated counteroffensive to drive the Russian president's troops back.

More than a dozen towns and villages have been evacuated near the front line in southern Ukraine, including the town of Enerhodar, which is home to the plant's workers and their families. It was seized in the early days of Putin's invasion.

Experts have warned that by placing weapons at the site, Russia is risking the plant being struck by Ukrainian artillery - and thus risking a nuclear meltdown.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the UN's International Atomic Energy Agency, said: 'We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment.

'This major nuclear facility must be protected,' he said.

Image shared by Fedorov on Telegram shows queues apparently leading out of the region

Pictured: An explosion of a drone is seen during a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine May 8

Evacuees from Zaporizhzhia region walk on a platform after arriving by evacuation train at the railway station of the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, on 20 April, 2023

Truck drivers queue on over ten kilometers at the Rava-Ruska border checkpoint on the Ukrainian-Polish border, on 18 April, 2023

The warning from the UN came as Moscow launched a fresh wave of drone, missile and air strikes across Ukraine, hitting Kyiv and other key cities on Monday.

Moscow appears to be stepping up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Kyiv's mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure.

'Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged,' the military said.

A food warehouse was set ablaze in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

As air-raid sirens sounded across the country on Monday, Dr Patricia Lewis  a nuclear physicist who leads the international security program at Chatham House - also issued a warning about the situation at the Zaporizhzhia power plant.

She said that there are concerns that Russia could attack Ukrainian positions from around the plant, prompting Kyiv's forces to fire back.

'The IAEA  the director general  reported just a few days ago that they've been seeing weapons and artillery and explosives being moved into the power plant,' she said, speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today Programme.

'This is the real worry that we have - that they will fire from the power plant and then what will the Ukrainians do? Because they do not want to fire at the power plant.'

The IAEA said earlier that such clashes around the plant threaten catastrophe.

Dr Lewis explained that if power to the plant is cut for example if power line to the plant is struck by a shell, this risks a nuclear meltdown.

The plant has back-up power sources, including diesel generators, which have kicked into gear on previous occasions when the site lost power.

However, these can only last so long. In the event that they run out of fuel and the plant is left without any source of power, a disaster could occur.

'There is a lot of equipment [the mitigate this risk of disaster]. Some of it can be done automatically but of course making decision in the heat of battle is the critical thing,' Dr Lewis said.

'You only have a limited supply of diesel. You'd have to make sure that you were able to bring in more diesel which you might not be able to,' she told the programme.

'So the big worry then is that the power supply would fail. And according to [Petro Kotin] who is the head of the Ukrainian atomic energy establishment  he said it would take a few hours to a day for things to get really serious and possibly have some melting in the reactor. Before we have a Fukishima.'

'This is really irresponsible of Russia to do this,' she added.

Russia confirmed the evacuation of 18 regions in the occupied part of Ukraine on Friday

For months, both sides fought tirelessly around Europe's largest power station, which remained staffed by Ukrainian employees under Russian control until September.

The plant at Zaporizhzhia is one of the ten biggest in the world and was responsible for nearly half the nuclear output of Ukraine's four reactors.

Ukrainian forces had little luck trying to recover the plant after the initial invasion, with rockets from both sides coming dangerously close to hitting the station.

Ukraine has warned since that damage to the structure risks a 'Chernobyl-style' catastrophe.

In September, the IAEA were able to inspect the integrity of the plant.

Both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of trying to sabotage the IAEA mission.

Mr Grossi, who has continued to visit the site for Russian-organised inspections, has said the 'plant and physical integrity of the plant' had been 'violated several times'.

In April, it was reported that dissenting plant workers - who refused to keep the plant active for Russian forces - had been the victims of torture during the occupation.

Ukrainian President Zelensky last week called for Putin to be tried in the Hague for 'criminal acts'.

The news comes as Ukraine gears up for a spring counter-offensive, breaking the winter deadlock with a push into occupied regions in the south and east.

Writing earlier this morning, Mr Fedorov said that 'Under the guise of a contrived 'evacuation', the occupiers are preparing real provocations.

'The humanitarian catastrophe caused by the sick fantasy of the Rashists ['Russian fascists'] is no less real.'

Ivan Fedorov was made mayor of Melitopol in 2020. He was captured by Russian forces early into the invasion. President Zelensky has alleged he was tortured

He added later that 'the occupiers promise the residents of the front-line territories golden mountains - comfortable accommodation at the captured recreation centres of Kyrylivka and Berdyansk.'

MailOnline was unable to verify the evacuation of Ukrainian refugees to the seaside beach-facing settlements - though eyewitnesses have echoed the reports.

LB.ua reported Saturday that locals were hiding their children as Russian occupants tried to evacuate them, in some cases without their parents, to recreation centres in Kyrylivka and Berdyansk.

The independent Ukrainian outlet said law enforcement agencies had confirmed the claims.

Mr Fedorov added: 'In fact, only [some] of the evacuees are brought to the coast - they are settled among the collaborators and the military. Others are taken to continental Russia.'

He said that Ukrainians evacuated from Kherson last year had found themselves later unable to return to Ukraine.

Russian state media confirmed the evacuation of the 18 occupied regions on Friday.

Ukraine is expected to launch a counteroffensive this spring to break to winter stalemate.

In April, Pentagon leaks revealed American officials doubted the ability of Ukraine to wage an effective assault.

But in recent days, Russian confidence has looked more exposed as Wagner Group threatened to withdraw from the contested city of Bakhmut in the east.

Russia has said it is ready to replace Wagner Group forces with Akhmat special forces from Chechnya in recent days - though experts warn the effectiveness is likely overstated.

A serviceman with a Russian flag on his uniform stands guard near the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant on 4 August, 2022

A picture taken during a visit by Grossi to Enerhodar organised by the Russian military shows the spent nuclear fuel storage site at the power plant, 29 March 2023

The fresh attacks come as Moscow prepares for Tuesday's Victory Day parade, a key event for President Vladimir Putin who has evoked the spirit of the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany, having accused Ukraine of being in the grip of a new kind of fascism.

Ukraine and its allies say the accusation was a baseless pretext for Russia's unprovoked invasion in February, 2022, which resulted in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War Two, killing thousands and forcing millions to flee the country.

'We must always be prepared for enemy treachery and defence,' Ukrainian deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar said in a post on the Telegram messaging app.

Russia stepped up shelling of Bakhmut, hoping to take it by Tuesday, Ukraine's top general leading the besieged city's defence said, after Russia's Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from it.

Three people were injured in blasts in Kyiv's Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capital's centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyiv's military administration said drone wreckage fell on a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capital's two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Drone debris seemed to have hit a two-storey building in the central district of Shevchenkivskyi, causing damage, it added.

Reuters witnesses said they heard numerous explosions in Kyiv, with local officials saying air defence systems were repelling the attacks.

Flames had completely engulfed a large structure identified as a food warehouse in pictures posted on Telegram by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, after what he said was a Russian attack.

After air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, media said explosions sounded in the southern region of Kherson and southeastern Zaporizhzhia.

Russia anticipates a counteroffensive from Ukraine this spring as it looks to reclaim territories

A view shows the site of a car bomb explosion outside a building housing a local TV station in Melitopol on October 25, 2022

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in Zaporizhzhia, said Russian forces hit a warehouse and Ukrainian troops' position in the small city of Orikhiv. Reuters was unable to independently verify the report.

Separately, Russian forces shelled eight spots in Sumy in northeastern Ukraine on Sunday, the regional military administration said in a Facebook post.

Strikes have also intensified in the past two weeks on Russian-held targets, especially in Crimea.

Ukraine has not confirmed any role in those attacks but it says destroying enemy infrastructure is preparation for its long-awaited ground assault.
Senior Ukrainian officials have raised concerns the long-anticipated offensive to reclaim occupied territories in the south and east of the country could fall flat.

After a failed Russian winter offensive led to stalemate and a war of attrition, all eyes are on Ukraine to turn the tide and hit hard into depleted Russian lines.

But Ukraine's Defence Minister has warned that raising expectations could lead to 'emotional disappointment'.

Oleksii Reznikov said: 'The expectation from our counteroffensive campaign is overestimated in the world. Most people are waiting for something huge.'

As Pentagon leaks reveal US planners doubt Ukraine's ability to muster an attack, some fear a marginal victory could weaken the West's case for sending vital munitions to Ukraine, pushing the country to negotiate surrender terms with Putin.

Zelensky summarised last Monday in an interview with The Washington Post that 'the more victories we have on the battlefield, frankly, the more people will believe in us, which means we will get more help.'

Ukrainian servicemen of the 10th Mountain Assault Brigade 'Edelweiss' fire a D-30 howitzer towards Russian troops at a position in a front line near the town of Soledar, 6 May 2023

Smoke rises from buildings in this aerial view of a Bakhmut hellscape in the east, 26 April 2023

Map shows contested regions as of 7 May 2023 based on Institute for the Study of War analysis

Russia's initial invasion of Ukraine last year had limited success beyond the areas in the south and east close to its border, many already established with Russian support since the 2014 invasion of Crimea.

Ukraine was able to garner massive support from the West, with the US and UK sending advanced missile systems to support counter-offensives in the north and south.

Reznikov explained last week: 'We inspired everywhere because the perception was that we will fall [within] 72 hours.'

In the months that followed, Russia re-expanded its goals to retake Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, which remain contested along the frontlines.

After some Russian successes, the war slowed down through the winter.

Russia prepared a dramatic offensive into Ukraine as experts warned the weather could grind advances to a halt and see thousands of soldiers freezing to death.

Bleak footage showed the realities of trench warfare as the war became a 'hell of attrition', increasingly seeing the use of World War I-style 'human wave' tactics.

With the direction of the war now changing again, Ukraine now looks poised for a counter-offensive to recover some of its territories.

Many of the details remain secret but Ukraine will seek to push through the contested regions in the east and south that have been pinned under artillery fire for months.

Cities like Bakhmut in the Donetsk Oblast of eastern Ukraine have seen months of intense fighting between opposing factions, with civilian areas in-between razed during the clashes.

With the Russian lines now fortified by extensive trench networks and artillery support, experts warn that it will be difficult to push the Russians back to their pre-invasion borders - when Russia held parts of Luhansk, Donetsk and the illegally annexed Crimean Peninsula.

Leaked documents from the Pentagon last month suggested that Ukraine lacked the firepower to sustain an effective offensive into the contested regions, picking up on 'force generation and sustainment shortfalls'.

The leaks predicted Ukraine would have only modest success in achieving its aims, to break Russia's land connection to the Crimean peninsula in the south while exploiting weaknesses to reclaim contested territories in the east.

Despite international efforts to support Ukraine, the document warns that 'enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive.'

Veterans in Ukraine were said to be worried that new troops were arriving without proper training.

Leaks also suggested Ukraine would run out of S-300 anti-air missiles by the start of May without action, hindering the ability to hold off Russian advances.

This report was a break from President Biden's public reassurances of Ukraine's military successes.

A firefighter works at the site of a resort area hit by a Russian missile strike in Odesa, 8 May

Yesterday, it was reported that Russia had taken heed of the offensive as evacuation orders were given to move people out of 18 settlements in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, said that the order had caused chaos and five-hour long queues of cars at the checkpoint into Crimea.

The official warned a humanitarian crisis was 'growing' as shops stopped receiving goods, hospitals closed and threats had been made to cut off power and water.

Meanwhile, UN officials warned of a potential 'severe nuclear accident' at the power station at Enerhodar if fighting were to ramp up in the region.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, warned the situation is 'becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.'
Pauline Hanson has more than doubled her money after selling an investment pub and apartment property for $1.1million, 11 years after buying it for $449,000.

The boutique craft beer bar called The Pourhouse in the NSW Hunter Valley town of Maitland, also has a three-bedroom apartment which is rented out for $650 a week.

But the One Nation leader is not celebrating the economy that allowed her to make such a huge profit, instead slamming the Albanese government for supposedly making life more difficult for real estate investors.

'As an Australian investor I have lost confidence in the national economy under this Labor government,' Senator Hanson's spokesman told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'Property investment has become more and more unviable in Australia, and the government are demonising investors.

Pauline Hanson (pictured second from left in the Pourhouse boutique bar) has more than doubled her money after selling an investment pub and apartment property for $1.1million, 11 years after buying it for $449,000

'So when the opportunity came up to sell my interest in the property, I happily took it.'

The senator feels the sudden increase in immigration after the end of the Covid pandemic has caused the rent, mortgage and cost of living pressures felt by many Australians.

One of those cost of living pressures is the price of a beer, with Ms Hanson saying she was shocked to recently get charged $13.50 for a schooner at a Queensland bar.

'I despair for Australians who like to have a drink at the local pub,' she said.

Though she did not run The Pourhouse - she just rented the premises to the bar owners - Ms Hanson may be aware the venue has some eye-watering prices for its mouth-watering food.

The House marinated USA style pork ribs costs $35, while the Pourhouse 3.0 burger is $28 and the salt and pepper squid salad will set you back $24.

Reserve Bank Governor Philip Lowe and many Australian economists disagree with Senator Hanson about the cause of the country's housing difficulties, saying the lack of properties being built, not the reopened borders, is to blame.

Despite calling for something to be done about housing supply and costs, One Nation is not going to support Labor's Housing Australia Future Fund in parliament.

The Pourhouse (pictured) in the NSW Hunter Valley town of Maitland, has a three-bedroom apartment above it which is rented out for $650 a week

The Pourhouse, whose premises was previously owned by Pauline Hanson, has some eye-watering prices for its mouth-watering food (menu page pictured)

The fund would see $10billion invested to build 30,000 social and affordable homes over the next five years.

In not supporting it because Ms Hanson thinks 30,000 homes is not enough, One Nation is aligned with the Greens, who hold the same view.

But the Greens do not back the controversial senator's other views on how to fix the housing crisis - by lowering immigration and banning all foreigners from owning real estate.

Labor's proposed $10billion figure for 30,000 affordable homes may increase in the coming days, however, as it needs the Greens' backing to get the bill through the Senate.
Just over 30 people were arrested for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance

Rishi Sunak has defended the Metropolitan Police over Coronation arrests as the force faces a probe over its 'heavy-handed' treatment of protesters.

The Prime Minister shared his gratitude for Scotland Yard after Saturday's operation to crackdown on crime during the crowning of King Charles.

He backed its decisions to make a total of 64 arrests, adding that officers 'make these decisions based on what they think is best'.

His thoughts come after Caroline Russell, who chairs the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, suggested that it was 'really worrying' that some arrests had been made.

Speaking with broadcasters in Hertfordshire, Sunak said: 'The police are operationally independent of Government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best.

Just over 30 people were arrested for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance. Pictured, one activist is taken away on The Mall

'Actually Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely. That was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.'

He later added: 'No other country in the world could put on such a dazzling spectacle and it was a proud expression of our history, our culture, our tradition and also a reflection of the modern character of our country.

READ MORE: Animal Rising vows to invade the Grand National course with 300 activists moments before the Grand National Advertisement

'It was deeply moving to be in the coronation service and incredibly uplifting and it was an experience I think nobody will forget for the rest of their lives.'

Earlier today, Scotland Yard confirmed that a total of 64 arrests were made during King Charles' Coronation, with four people charged.

Dozens were arrested during the crowning of His Majesty on Saturday as Scotland Yard clamped down on those suspected of causing trouble in London. Breach of the peace, sexual assault and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance were among the various grounds for arrest on the day.

Several Just Stop Oil protesters were arrested in addition to members from Animal Rising groups who were also linked to the Grand National chaos last month. Campaigners of the anti-monarchist group Republic, including its chief executive Graham Smith, were apprehended during the day too.

On BBC's Today programme, Ms Russell expressed that some of these arrests were 'very odd'.

Her concerns come after the arrest of two women and a man following accusations of a plot to throw rape alarms at horses during the Coronation.

She said: 'It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because they'd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms.'

Scotland Yard also arrested 14 people for the breaching the peace on Saturday

Scotland Yard revealed that 32 people were arrested for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance, who have all since been bailed.

Another 14 others were arrested for a breach of peace who have since been bailed.

Among others bailed include a person arrested for handling stolen goods, another on suspicion of sexual assault and another individual arrested for common assault.

Just four people of the 64 arrests made have so far been charged with offences, Scotland Yard said yesterday evening.

Ms Russell continued: 'It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Met's safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

'The Police and Crime Committee, we question the mayor, Mopac (Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime) and the Metropolitan Police, we meet every fortnight, so of course we will be questioning this because I'm sure members of all parties will want to have their questions answered.'

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also demanded 'clarity' from the force's leaders on the arrests.

Yesterday however, Chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation Ken Marsh said he was 'flabbergasted' that officers were facing a backlash on clamping down on those who allegedly sought to ruin the historic occasion.

He claimed that officers had 'foiled a number of scenarios' - including defacing public monuments with paint, breaching barriers and disrupting official movements.

Met Police officers also shared they arrested three people in Soho on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance at around 2am on the morning of King Charles' Coronation.

The force revealed that numerous rape alarms were seized and that three people were taken to a south London police station for further questioning.

Metropolitan Police arrests come amidst concerns surrounding the right to protest in the UK. A man is apprehended by police on Saturday

Caroline Russell, who chairs the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, suggested that it was 'really worrying' that some arrests had happened

A 47-year-old man among the group was also further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A statement read: 'There was particular concern from military colleagues that this would scare their horses involved in the procession and, as a result, cause significant risk to the safety of the public and the riders.'

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan also added: 'The intelligence we received led us to be extremely worried about the potential risk to public safety. We are aware of and understand there is public concern over these arrests. However, the matter is still under investigation.'

Patrick Thelwell - who tried to egg the King during a visit to York on November 9 last year - was also arrested on Saturday. The 23-year-old was convicted of threatening behaviour at York magistrates court last month and sentenced to a 12-month community order with 100 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay 600 in court costs.

Meanwhile, two people were charged for possession of class A drugs during the royal event on Saturday, while another was charged under Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

The Prime Minister shared his gratitude for Scotland Yard after Saturday's operation to crackdown on crime during the crowning of King Charles

Scotland Yard charged the final person with a 'religiously aggravated offence' under Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

All those charged will appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court over the course of this month.

Following arrest concerns, Commander Findlay added: 'We absolutely understand public concern following the arrests we made this morning.

'Protest is lawful and it can be disruptive. We have policed numerous protests without intervention in the build-up to the Coronation, and during it.

'Our duty is to do so in a proportionate manner in line with relevant legislation. We also have a duty to intervene when protest becomes criminal and may cause serious disruption.

'This depends on the context. The Coronation is a once in a generation event and that is a key consideration in our assessment.

'A protest involving large numbers has gone ahead today with police knowledge and no intervention.'

But denying that police had got it wrong, yesterday Ken Marsh told MailOnline: 'I cannot believe what I'm hearing this morning with all the criticism of the police. I'm flabbergasted.

'Did one of the biggest global spectacles we've ever had not go off impeccably without a hitch? Yes it did, and it did so due to the bravery and vigilance of the thousands of my colleagues who kept the public safe yesterday.

'There were heightened levels of anxiety going into the Coronation at what was being by planned by who but it passed off peacefully and without disruption because of quick-thinking police work.'

Also in defence of the Met was Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who insisted that the Met Police got the 'balance right' and that she trusted the police to use new laws to prevent disruptive protests.

MailOnline has approached the Metropolitan Police for further comments.
This handout picture released by the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) shows Syria's President Bashar al-Assad as he chairs the central committee of the ruling Baath party in Damascus, Oct. 7, 2018. AFP-Yonhap



The Arab League readmitted Syria on Sunday after more than a decade of suspension, consolidating a regional push to normalize ties with President Bashar al-Assad in a move criticized by Washington.



The decision said Syria could resume its participation in Arab League meetings immediately, while calling for a resolution of the crisis resulting from Syria's civil war, including the flight of refugees to neighboring countries and drug smuggling across the region.



While Arab states including the United Arab Emirates have pressed to end Assad's isolation, some have been opposed to full normalization without a political solution to the Syrian conflict, seeking conditions for Syria's return.



Qatar, which had previously opposed Syria's return to the League, said its position on normalization had not changed and it hoped regional consensus on Syria could be "a motive for the Syrian regime to address the roots of the crisis", a foreign ministry spokesperson told state news agency QNA.



"The reinstatement of Syria does not mean normalization of relations between Arab countries and Syria," Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit told reporters in Cairo. "This is a sovereign decision for each country to make."



Syria called on Arab states to show "mutual respect".



A U.S. State Department spokesperson said Washington shared the goals of Arab partners in Syria, including building security and stability, but remained "skeptical of Assad's willingness to take the steps necessary to resolve Syria's crisis."



"We do not believe Syria merits readmission into the Arab League at this time," the spokesperson said, adding that U.S. sanctions would remain in full effect.



But Russia, an Assad ally, hailed Syria's readmission.



"Moscow welcomes this long-awaited step, the logical result of the process, which has gained momentum, of returning Syria to the 'Arab family,'" Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, said in a statement.



Captagon trafficking



Sunday's decision said Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt and the Arab League's Secretary General would form a ministerial group to liaise with the Syrian government and seek solutions to the crisis through reciprocal steps.



Practical measures included continuing efforts to facilitate the delivery of aid in Syria, according to a copy of the decision seen by Reuters.



Syria's readmission follows a Jordanian initiative laying out a roadmap for ending Syria's conflict that includes addressing the issues of refugees, missing detainees, drug smuggling and Iranian militias in Syria.



Jordan is both a destination and a main transit route to the oil-rich Gulf countries for captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine produced in Syria, and has hinted it could take unilateral action to curb the multi-billion dollar trade.



A Jordanian official said Syria would need to show it was serious about reaching a political solution, since this would be a pre-condition to lobbying for any lifting of Western sanctions, a crucial step for funding reconstruction in Syria.



Syria's membership of the Arab League was suspended in 2011 after the crackdown on street protests against Assad that led to the civil war. Several Gulf states including Saudi Arabia began backing rebel groups fighting to oust Assad from power.



Assad later regained control over much of Syria with the help of his main allies Iran and Russia, but the war cost hundreds of thousands of lives and led millions to flee the country. Syria remains splintered with its economy in ruins.



Recently, Arab states have been trying to reach consensus on whether to invite Assad to an Arab League summit on May 19 in Riyadh to discuss the pace and conditions for normalizing ties.



Responding to a question over whether Assad could participate, Aboul Gheit told reporters: "If he wishes, because Syria, starting from this evening, is a full member of the Arab League."



Saudi Arabia had long resisted restoring relations with Assad but said after its recent rapprochement with Iran  Syria's key regional ally  that a new approach was needed with Damascus. (Reuters)




Three runaway detainees wanted by police have been pictured after breaking out of Yarl's Wood immigration removal centre during a riot.

Albanian men Arnold Lleshaj, 27, Ervin Morati, 20, and Luftim Hallaci, 20, are three of thirteen people who escaped through the perimeter fence at the site in Milton Ernest, Bedfordshire, after a row over access to a gym on April 28.

Ten have been arrested on suspicion of escape or assisting an offender, while three remain missing.

Five people were quickly caught after the riot while eight - including seven Albanian men - managed to get away.

It is believed some of the eight are convicted drug dealers.

Albanian men Arnold Lleshaj, 27, Ervin Morati, 20, and Luftim Hallaci, 20, are three of thirteen people to have escaped through the perimeter fence of Yarl's Wood immigration removal centre during a riot

Ten were arrested on suspicion of escape and assisting an offender, while the other three remain missing

The riot is said to have started when 40 detainees - who are held at the centre while awaiting deportation - were prevented from using the gym.

A crew of prison staff and a tactical response group were sent to restore order as the detainees used gym equipment to damage the property and grounds.

Det Supt William Hodgkinson said: 'I would appeal directly to these three men to hand yourselves in - you should also know that anyone who is helping you in any way will also be arrested and put before the courts.'

'This has been a co-ordinated effort from police forces across multiple counties and has resulted in 10 people being arrested for a variety of offences including suspicion of escaping from the centre or assisting or harbouring those who involved.

'We will continue to do everything we can to identify and track down those responsible.'

Detectives have seized 'significant amounts of drugs and cash' as part of their enquiries into the mass escape, which saw thirteen men flee through the perimeter fence.

Det Supt Hodgkinson said: 'This is a serious crime and is being treated as such by our officers and those in law enforcement across the country.

'I would urge anyone involved in this to strongly consider handing themselves in. This would be in their best interests to mitigate the kind of serious criminal sanctions we will look to impose on them when we catch them.

'A number of people who remained at Yarl's Wood have also been moved into alternative accommodation in the prison estate following the disturbance, as we and our partners continue to take steps to ensure these kinds of unacceptable scenes do not happen again.'

Bedfordshire Police put a post on social media picturing the three men who are wanted

The riot at Yarl's Wood (pictured) is said to have started when 40 detainees - who are held at the centre while awaiting deportation - were prevented from using the gym

A crew of prison staff and a tactical response group were sent to restore order as the detainees used gym equipment to damage the property and grounds

They added: 'I understand that this incident has caused concern among local residents, and I wish to reassure people that there is no risk to the local community as a result of what has happened.

'The immigration removal centre itself is calm and has returned to normal and I know staff there are working hard to prevent any further incidents like this from happening.'

Yarl's Wood is an immigration removal centre where people with disputed immigration status can be detained without a defined time limit. It has been run by Serco since 2007.
Tory MPs have reacted with fury as the Government prepares to hold talks over renewing Britain's business ties with Hong Kong.

Trade minister Lord Dominic Johnson is due to discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with the city's representatives.

It will be the first visit to Hong Kong by a UK minister since China's crackdown on civil rights in the former British territory.

The Government has consistently condemned Beijing's actions in the special administrative region and criticised the imposition of new national security laws.

Senior Conservatives warned Lord Johnson's visit to Hong Kong was 'not a good look' and questioned why Britain would 'prostrate' itself in front of China.

The fresh row follows a controversy over the attendance of Chinese vice-president Han Zheng - who is blamed the restrictions on freedom in Hong Kong - at King Charles's Coronation on Saturday.

Trade minister Lord Dominic Johnson is due to discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong's representatives.

Senior Conservatives Sir Iain Duncan Smith (left) and Tim Loughton hit out at Lord Johnson's visit to Hong Kong

The fresh row follows a controversy over the attendance of Chinese vice-president Han Zheng (left) - who is blamed the restrictions on freedom in Hong Kong - at King Charles's Coronation

Speaking to Politico about Lord Johnson's visit, former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said: 'Why is it that we are about to prostrate ourselves in front of a government that treats us like dirt?'

Fellow Conservative backbencher Tim Loughton added: 'Not a good look, following hard on the heels of the architect of suppression of the people of Hong Kong being feted at the Coronation.'

Both Sir Iain and Mr Loughton are among a group of MPs to have been sanctioned by China in recent years for raising concerns about human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

Luke de Pulford, of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, described Lord Johnson's visit as 'another body blow to MPs on all sides of the House of Commons who have spent a lot of time and energy to raise awareness about Beijing's human rights abuses  and been sanctioned for it'

'But it's even worse for the 150,000 Hong Kongers recently moved to the UK who see this for what it is: the UK selling out,' he added.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly held talks with Mr Han on Friday ahead of the Coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

He said he had 'made plain' Britain's views on Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Taiwan during the meeting, while also discussing UK-Chinese cooperation 'on climate change, economic ties and people-to-people links'.

Ahead of his trip, Lord Johnson said: 'Hong Kong is one of the world's leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excel  from financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

'The UK's ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed.

'For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively  and our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

'I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.'
Kyu Cho, 37, and Cindy Kang, 35 , died along with their young son James, 3

Engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27, was shot while shopping for her birthday

Two sisters were shot and killed in the Texas mall massacre  as their mother fights for her life in a critical condition.

Fourth-grader Daniela Mendoza and second-grader Sofia Mendoza were both shot dead following the rampage in Allan, Texas.

Both attended Cox elementary school, with Wylie ISD Superintendent David Vinson confirming their mother, Ilda, was also shot and remains in critical condition.

Vinson said in an email: 'We love your babies, we love them so much. Our love for our kiddos and each other will get us through this.

'Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed that Kyu Cho, 37, and Cindy Kang, 35 were both killed in the massacre, along with their three-year-old son James.

Aishwarya Thatikonda (pictured), who is originally from Hyderabad, India, was identified as one of the nine killed in the massacre - including the shooter - by a family representative today

Christian LaCour, 20, (pictured) who worked as a security guard at the mall, was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday

Shoppers leave as law enforcement officers respond to the mass shooting in the Dallas area's Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

Currently their eldest son, 6, is being treated at a hospital and is in a serious condition following the rampage in Allan, Texas.

Engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27, and Christian LaCour, 20, who worked as a security guard at the mall, were also killed in the massacre.

Thatikonda, originally from Hyderabad, India, had been shopping for her upcoming birthday when she was one of the nine shot dead - including the shooter.

She moved to Dallas two years ago to work as a Project Engineer at Perfect General Contractors, was shopping with her friend at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday morning when gunman Mauricio Garcia opened fire.

'She was very friendly and very loving,' a family representative told WFAA, adding that Thatikonda's friend was injured in the shooting and is currently stable in the hospital.

LaCour was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday, with his grandmother Sandra Montgomery describing him as a 'beautiful soul'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen, Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

In another tribute post shared Sunday, one person who is friends with LaCour's family said he was a 'very sweet gentleman.'

Christian LaCour, 20, who worked as a security guard at the mall, was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' Sandra Montgomer, LaCour's grandmother, wrote

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

Kellie Smith said she considered herself lucky to have 'watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman,' the woman wrote on Facebook.

'Their will forever be a void. Please uplift his family in prayer as they navigate this unimaginable time of their lives. Christian you will always remain close to us because we will keep you in our hearts until we see you in Heaven,' Smith wrote.

LaCour was the first of eight victims to be identified publicly and the identification comes a full day after the shooting took place.

Children were among the eight killed during the rampage, where more than 100 rounds were fired. Seven were pronounced at the scene and two at the hospital.

Additionally, the fire department transported nine victims to hospitals, however, officials say more may have been taken by other agencies.

As of the early hours of Monday, there are three victims were in critical condition and four in stable condition, police confirmed to FOX 4.

The shooter has since been identified as 33-year-old Garcia. He was gunned down by a police officer after the shooting on Saturday afternoon.

Officials are investigating whether Garcia had an interest in white supremacist or neo-Nazi ideologies.

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

MacKenzie Bates embraces her mother Rochelle where flowers were left at the scene of the shooting

A law enforcement official said federal agents had been reviewing social media accounts and believed Garcia had expressed an interest in neo-Nazi views and had a patch on his chest reading RWDS - an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have searched a home connected to the suspect and a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The motel room contained multiple weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

A man who witnessed the outlet mall shooting firsthand on Saturday recalled being one of the first people on the scene - rushing to rescue his son from a clothing store where the now-deceased gunman's attack started.

Shortly before, around 3:30pm, Steven Spainhouer received a frantic call from his son notifying him that there had been shots fired outside the H&M.

Footage showed the moment those first shots rang out, in which the unidentified gunman is seen pulling up to the store.

Driving over with the intent to save his child's life, Spainhouer explained how he got there before any first responders - and was faced with the monumental task of trying to save lives.

'I never imagined in 100 years I would be thrust into the position of being the first first responder on the site to take care of people,' he told CBS News.

Spainhouer said he jumped in and tried to help victims who were in need.

The man said he attempted CPR and first aid but was shocked by the severity of the situation and several of the victims.

Multiple victims have been reported after an active shooter opened fired at an outdoor outlet mall - with one of the gunmen now reportedly dead and another still at-large

'The first girl I walked up to was crouched down covering her head in the bushes, so I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side and she had no face,' he said of the first victim he came across, a young girl.

Dashcam video showed the gunman getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

Garcia was using an AR-15-style gun during the mass shooting, and was dressed in full tactical SWAT gear.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd confirmed that seven people died at the scene, including the gunman, and then a further two victims died in hospital.

Three of the wounded were in critical condition in the evening, and four were stable, Boyd said in an update on Saturday night.

A Dallas-area medical group said it was treating victims as young as 5 years old.

Investigators confirmed they believe shooter Garcia was working alone, but they have not yet released any motive for the killings.

Fontayne Payton, 35, was at H&M when he heard the sound of gunshots through his headphones. He said: 'It was so loud, it sounded like it was right outside.

'I pray it wasn't kids, but it looked like kids,' he said. 'The bodies were covered in white towels, slumped over bags on the ground. 'It broke me when I walked out to see that.'
Ofcom has allegedly been flooded with complaints after a Bridgerton star told ITV that the view of Buckingham Palace balcony was 'terribly white' on Coronation Day.

Numerous people have taken to Twitter to voice their outrage towards Adjoa Andoh's views during ITV's coverage of King Charles on Saturday.

One commenter slammed Ms Andoh's comments as 'ridiculous', tweeting: 'How can she get away with that? Anyone of white colour would have to make a public apology.'

A spokesman for Ofcom told MailOnline: 'Any complaints we receive on this issue will be assessed against our broadcast rules, before we decide whether to investigate or not.'

The Netflix star has insisted that she 'didn't mean to upset anyone' after sparking backlash amidst the crowning of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Bridgerton Star Adjoa Andoh, pictured outside the BBC yesterday, insisted she 'didn't mean to upset anyone' after sparking backlash by calling the Buckingham Palace balcony 'terribly white' on Coronation Day

Ofcom has been flooded with complaints following the Bridgerton star's comments that the view of Buckingham Palace balcony was 'terribly white' on Coronation Day

Ms Andoh said yesterday: 'We have gone from the rich diversity of the Abbey to a terribly white balcony. I am very struck by that'

As millions tuned in to watch the newly crowned King and Queen wave down to crowds on The Mall with the rest of the Royal Family, Ms Andoh left her ITV co-stars stunned with her comments which have been described by some as 'appalling'.

The star, whose father was of Ghanaian origin, was commentating for ITV on their live Coronation coverage hosted by Tom Bradby and Julie Etchingham when she said of the event: 'We have gone from the rich diversity of the Abbey to a terribly white balcony. I am very struck by that.

'I am also looking at those younger generations and thinking: "What are the nuances that they will inhabit when they grow?"

Ms Andoh, 60, who plays Lady Danbury in Bridgerton, left fellow pundit Myleene Klass  who was sitting next to her  appearing bewildered as she made her comments.

One viewer wrote online: '@ITV after the racist comment by Adjoa Andoh yesterday, I have now put in my complaint to Ofcom.'

One more viewer suggested they had also complained: 'Was going to let it go but I'm really angry, so thought no for a change. Things like this need challenging.'

In a rush to quickly extinguish any backlash, Ms Andoh, who was speaking on BBC Radio 4's Sunday morning show with Paddy O'Connell yesterday, said: 'I think I upset a few people yesterday.

'I was talking about the day and how marvellous it was and then looking at the balcony at the end and suddenly going: "Oh it's so white!" because the day had been so mixed and I didn't mean to upset anybody.'

The details of any incident attracting more than 50 Ofcom complaints are published every Wednesday.

Ms Andoh, who played Dr Isaacs in the psychological thriller Fractured, as well as DI Nina Rosen in BBC's Silent Witness, has enjoyed a successful career in TV, film and on the stage. She made her Hollywood debut in 2009 in Clint Eastwood's hit-film Invictus alongside Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon.

Ten years later, she co-directed and played Richard II at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, in the UK's first all women-of-colour production.

But yesterday, social media erupted into a frenzy over the 2023 Booker Prize judge's comments with one user saying: 'Why is it OK to dismiss a white family for being white?'

Meanwhile another added: 'I'm disappointed in Adjoa Andoh. The #Coronation focused on promoting positive race relations & representing modern Britain.

'There were many people from diverse backgrounds who had prominent positions yesterday, and yet Adjoa chose to discriminate with her divisive comment.'

And a third said: 'Why make such an appalling #whitebalcony comment?! Appalling.'

Bridgerton star Adjoa Andoh calls the British royal family 'terribly white'



Imagine someone talking like this on live TV about any other race pic.twitter.com/oX8V8rwiM0  End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) May 7, 2023

Ms Andoh said that she made the comment because the Westminster Abbey service (pictured) had featured 'rich diversity'

The actress plays Lady Danbury, pictured left, in the popular period TV series Bridgerton

The Bridgerton star came under fire for her comments, with one branding them 'appalling' while another said they were 'disappointed'

Ms Andoh made her Hollywood debut in 2009 in Clint Eastwood's hit-film Invictus alongside Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon

But rushing to the star's defence, O'Connell interjected on this morning's radio show by saying: 'You haven't upset anyone.'

The Radio 4 host then quickly moved the conversation on, turning to another guest, Simon Heffer, to quiz him on Penny Mordaunt's role at the crowning of King Charles and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey.

The Leader of the House of Commons presented the King with the 17th century Sword of State as Lord President of the Privy Council, a role she has held since September last year.

It was the first time in history that the Jewelled Sword of Offering has been carried and presented to the monarch by a woman.

Ms Andoh's comments come after TV historian Professor David Olusoga - who discussed Brexit and racism in Harry and Meghan's bombshell Netflix series - warned that the future of the monarchy was 'open to discussion' and that it could be a struggle to modernise.

Being given a platform on the BBC, the University of Manchester professor told the broadcaster: 'Now a new reign formally begins, lots of questions about the monarchy and his role are up for discussion as they always are and always have been.

'I think it's more difficult with a thousand-year-old ceremony to reflect the fact that we are one of the most secular nations in the world.

TV historian Professor David Olusoga warned that the future of the monarchy was 'open to discussion' and that it could be a struggle to modernise

'There's only so much you can modernise a thousand-year-old ceremony without it stopping being that ceremony.'

He added: 'I'd like to think that he'll find ways of modernising the Royal Family but I do think it's a challenge.'

Today, the King, Queen and Royal Family will join around 20,000 members of the public at the Coronation concert to see performances by Take That, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie.

William and Kate have already appeared ahead of the concert at Windsor Castle at 8pm tonight - and the Prince of Wales was even handed a can of Coronation ale during a walkabout with the Princess of Wales.
Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka's husband Jason Gaudin has died after a long battle with cancer.

Although Mr Gaudin had a far more low-key public profile than his wife, he also enjoyed a very successful high-powered corporate career and worked with Wells Fargo Bank as the head of corporate and investment banking for Australia and New Zealand.

'As many of you know, my husband Jason was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive, and ultimately incurable cancer in November of 2019,' Ms Hrdlicka in a statement on Monday night.

'It is with a very heavy heart that I say, after a long, difficult, and brave battle he has now passed on.'

As well as the American-born Ms Hrdlicka, Mr Gaudin is survived by the couple's two sons, Alec, who was born in 2004, and Josh, born in 2007.

Jayne Hrdlicka (right) is pictured with her father Richard, son Alec and husband Jason, who has just died after a long battle with cancer

Jason Gaudin is pictured in 2009 with his wife Jayne Hrdlicka

'For his sake, I am grateful that the suffering is behind him. For our sake, it is a devastating loss,' she said.

'He was such a kind, loving, fun and adventurous person with a sharp and quick wit. Jason will be sorely missed as a father, husband, son, brother and friend to many.'

The family has lived in Brisbane, where Virgin Australia is headquartered, since she replaced Paul Scurrah as its chief executive in November 2020.

Their previous home, the historic Hawthorn mansion Crossakiel in Melbourne, was listed for sale in 2022 with a guide of $18million to $19million.

They had bought the five-bedroom Victorian-era home for $13.3million in 2016.

Ms Hrdlicka had previously been the CEO of the A2 dairy company, but stood down from that role in December 2019 after just two years in the top job.

Though she was initially vague about the departure, she later said there had been 'unforeseen changes' in her personal life that she had to deal with.

But in March 2021, she said her husband's cancer diagnosis was why she had left A2.

'That was kind of it. Game over. Life's short,' she said at the time.

As well as the American-born Ms Hrdlicka (pictured), Mr Gaudin is survived by the couple's two sons, Alec, who was born in 2004, and Josh, born in 2007

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka poses for a photograph at Brisbane Airport on May 20, 2021

Ms Hrdlicka said that 'For the next few weeks, I will be taking leave to spend time with family.

'I deeply appreciate the heartfelt support and compassion from so many over the last couple of years as Jason and I worked our way through his various treatment phases and challenges.'

She added that her husband's 'strength, incredibly positive attitude and passion for his boys enabled him to live years beyond the expectations of his doctors.

'For that we are blessed and grateful.'

Mr Gaudin had worked for American multinational Wells Fargo Bank as the head of corporate and investment banking Australia and New Zealand from January 2013 to August 2018.

Jane Hrdlicka, the CEO of Virgin Australia, is pictured (right) with a ground crew member

Before that, he was the managing director of Balmoral Debt Advisory for 10 years up to January 2013.

He studied at the University of Queensland from 1987 to 1990, graduating with a Bachelor of Economics degree.

In 2014, Mr Gaudin and Ms Hrdlicka were among those thanked by Melbourne's prestigious Scotch College for making a substantial donation to its fundraising campaign, and were honoured on the school's donors board.

In the high school's annual report for 2018, the couple were listed as Associate Fellows.

Virgin Australia posted a message on Ms Hrdlicka's LinkedIn page, saying 'On behalf of everyone at Virgin Australia, we send our deepest condolences to you and your family. We are all thinking of you during this difficult time.'

Another poster wrote that 'no words can ever replace your loss as a woman and your children's loss of their Father... Rest peacefully Jason and I pray you and your children spend quiet times remembering him with love.'

A third wrote that 'This is a time to celebrate all that your husband stood for and no doubt a life well lived.

'Thoughts and prayers with you and your family during this time of bereavement.'

Many people who work in the aviation industry also posted condolences to the family.
The Greek pilot who killed his British wife, Caroline Crouch, in May 2021 has convinced his parents to testify in his defence as he appeals his life sentence.

At an appeal hearing in Athens today he told the court 'I regret what I did' and apologised to the family of his late wife.

Babis Anagnostopoulos, 35, was sentenced to 27-and-a-half years for strangling his wife, 20, in front of their infant child at their home in Glyka Nera, Greece.

The 34-year-old staged a crime scene, where he tied himself up and hanged the couple's dog, Roxy, from a bannister in a bid to throw police off the scent.

Babis appeared at court after the trial was postponed when his defence lawyer, Alexandros Papaioannidis, fell sick and was unable to attend on 24 April.

Babis is looking to convince the court that the murder of his wife was not premeditated but a 'heat of the moment' act.

Greek helicopter pilot Babis Anagnostopoulos leaves the Athens Court of Appeal escorted by an armed police officer on 8 May 2023

Anagnostopoulos told the court today that he regretted what he did. Pictured in Athens, 8 May

Charalambos (Babis) Anagnostopoulos (R) wife Caroline Crouch (L) and their baby daughter

'Babis' Anagnostopoulos was found guilty of the pre-meditated murder of his wife and sentenced to 27 and a half years in prison in 2022 for the crimes.

He had claimed that burglars had broken into the couple's home in East Attica, killing the dog, Roxy, in an apparent effort to make the crime look more realistic.

Babis was given a 27-and-a-half year prison sentence in May last year for the crimes.

This included a jail term of 11 years and six months for the killing of Roxy, as well as a 21,000 euro fine (18,316).

For the murder of his wife, he received a life sentence.

After the sentencing was passed, his lawyer said the outcome was 'expected'.

But Babis has sought to reduce the sentence on the basis that, he claims, the killing was not premeditated.

In February, Crouch's family spoke out against the appeal.

Her father said: 'It is absolutely despicable that my daughter's killer is trying to get his prison sentence reduced because of his 'good behaviour.'

'The crime committed by the murderer, that of femicide, is a heinous crime that should deserve particularly severe punishment.

'In my opinion, men who kill their wives, for whatever reason, are the lowest of the low, ranking alongside paedophiles.'

Babis will now call his parents and another four witnesses to take the stand in his defence during the appeal.

Ahead of today's hearing, defence lawyer Alexandros Papaioannides said: 'There are going to be quite a lot of new witnesses and documents that will contain elements that will help reverse this case.

'I think there will be a more correct assessment [by the court] of the circumstances that prevailed that day in regards to the crime he committed and whether it was committed in the heat of the moment.'

Babis Anagnostopoulos leaves the Athens Court of Appeal on 8 May 2023

Babis Anagnostopoulos (left) is pictured with Caroline Crouch (right)

Babis' lawyer, Alexandros Papaioannidis, has previously argued his client is a 'model prisoner' who 'reads a lot and works in the prison canteen' and should not be punished for a crime 'that was never premeditated.'

The state coroner has said that Crouch would have suffered 'a long and agonising death'.

She was pinned down by the pilot as she slept in the couple's Athens maisonette, resisting as she attempted to fight back as he suffocated her for five minutes with a pillow.
It was in a dayglo red trainer aircraft known as the Red Dragon that King Charles flew solo for the first time.

As the Prince of Wales, Charles made his first flight in the tandem, two-seat aircraft on January 14, 1969, before being awarded his private pilot's licence two months later and his RAF wings in August 1971.

Yesterday, the 70-year-old Royal de Havilland Chipmunk WP903 took to the skies once again at the King and Country Air Show at Old Warden Airfield in Bedfordshire.

Charles was a student at Cambridge University when he began his flying career, which he chose to bring to an end in 1994 after crashing the Queen's Flight - a 10million 'Whisper Jet' - while attempting to land in Scotland.

It was in a dayglo red trainer aircraft known as the Red Dragon that King Charles flew solo for the first time. As the Prince of Wales, Charles made his first flight in the tandem, two-seat aircraft on January 14, 1969, before being awarded his private pilot's licence two months later and his RAF wings in August 1971. Above: Charles in 1969 standing next to the plane

Yesterday, the 70-year-old Royal de Havilland Chipmunk WP903 took to the skies once again at the King and Country Air Show at Old Warden Airfield in Bedfordshire

Built in 1952, the Royal Chipmunk served with the RAF Queens Flight from September 20, 1960 to June 12, 1964.

The Chipmunk was also used to teach the Duke of Kent and the late Queen's cousins Prince Michael and Prince William to fly.

William, older brother of the Duke of Gloucester, would die in an air crash while piloting his plane in a competition in 1972 at the age of 30.

On leaving the RAF in 1974, WP903 was acquired by the Culdrose Gliding Club and served as a Glider Tug until December 1996.

Since 2001, the Chipmunk has been operated by the Henlow Chipmunk Group and based out of the Old Warden Aerodrome near Bedford since 2020.

Charles gained his RAF wings just five months after completing a parachute jump.

According retired Squadron Leader Philip Pinney, the man who taught Charles to fly, he completed 101 sorties in the plane.

His father Prince Philip was present to watch him receive his wings at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

He later went supersonic, flying at 1,000mph as a co-pilot in a Phantom Intercepter.

And in five years in the Royal Navy, the King flew helicopters, before both of his sons followed in his footsteps by flying the aircraft.

Built in 1952, the Royal Chipmunk served with the RAF Queens Flight from September 20, 1960 to June 12, 1964. Above: The plane being flown yesterday

King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, is seen at the controls of his Royal de Havilland Chipmunk WP903 in 1969

Charles is seen in his flying suit as he walks around his red de Havilland Chipmunk

Charles joined the Royal Air Force in March 1971 and gained his wings after a training period which saw him complete a parachute jump (right)

King Charles is seen in January 1969 as he makes his first solo flight in his Chipmunk plane

Charles is seen wearing a flying helmet and mask as he sits in the cockpit of his Chipmunk plane

Charles (right) is helped into the front seat of the Queen's Flight Chipmunk plane by Royal Air Force corporal Pat Hinnigan. In the rear is his instructor, Squadron Leader Philip Pinney

Charles is seen wearing his flying suit as he walks with his instructor, Squadron Leader Philip Pinney

Charles in the Chipmunk with his RAF instructor, Squadron Leader Philip Pinney

Charles is seen slipping into the cockpit of a twin-engined Basset plane in an image taken to mark his 21st birthday in 1969

Charles is seen learning to fly a Bassett light aircraft with his instructor, Squadron Leader Philip Pinney

Charles is seen at the controls of a Beagle Basset plane in November 1969

He used to regularly take over controls of the Queen's Flight when traveling to engagements.

But in June 1994, when he was trying to land on the island of Islay in the Inner Hebrides during a five-day tour of Scotland, the King's flying skills were put to the ultimate test.

After taking over the controls from the flight's official pilot, Squadron Leader Graham Laurie, Charles carried too much speed amid 33mph tailwinds and three tyres burst when the plane hit the runway.

Charles had to dramatically turn to avoid going onto rough land that was followed by a 14ft drop.

None of the plane's 11 occupants were hurt, but the British Aerospace 146 aircraft was left with a damaged nose cone, landing gear and weather radar.

King Charles is seen in the cockpit of a Queen's Flight jet ahead of a trip to Yugoslavia in 1978

The then Prince Charles is seen waving from the cockpit of a jet, before he gave up flying

In June 1994, the then Prince Charles crashed the British Aerospace 146 aircraft of the Queen's Flight, after overshooting the runway at Islay in the Inner Hebrides

Whilst Charles insisted shortly afterwards that the near miss 'wasn't quite a crash', he quickly decided to hang up his flying gloves, and has not piloted a plane since.

Responsibility for the accident was placed on the pilot, Squadron Leader Graham Laurie, even though Charles was at the controls.

An official Ministry of Defence inquiry ruled that he should have taken over command of the plane when it was clear it was going too quickly to land safely, or should have told Charles to fly around the runway again to make another attempt.

However, despite the reprimand and claims that his career would suffer, Squadron Leader Laurie would go on to pilot the plane that carried the body of Princess Diana back to England after she was killed in a car crash in Paris in 1997.

Speaking in 2019 in Channel 5 documentary, Laurie admitted he should have gotten the King to pull up the plane and make another approach, but instead told him to land, and he 'did exactly what he was told to do.'
Dominc Raab's exit from Government over a bullying row will lead to the scrapping of his planned Bill of Rights, it has been claimed.

The former justice secretary had been working on an overhaul of Labour's Human Rights Act before he resigned last month when a report found he bullied officials.

His departure from Cabinet has cleared the way for Rishi Sunak to ditch the Bill of Rights as the Prime Minister focuses on getting other legislation through Parliament.

Plans for a Bill of Rights to replace the 1998 Human Rights Act have long been promised by the Tories but have frequently been delayed.

Mr Raab's own plans have twice been scrapped previously, but then been revived.

The Ministry of Justice said Alex Chalk, who replaced Mr Raab as Justice Secretary, is currently 'looking carefully' at the legislation before setting out his plans.

Dominic Raab had been working on an overhaul of Labour's Human Rights Act before he resigned last month when a report found he bullied officials

Mr Raab's departure from Cabinet has cleared the way for Rishi Sunak to ditch the Bill of Rights as the Prime Minister focuses on getting other legislation through Parliament

A Government source told The Times that Mr Raab's departure 'sounded the death knell' for the Bill of Rights.

'It won't be coming back, or at least not in any form that resembles the current bill,' they added.

Another Government source described the Bill as a 'complete mess' and said there was a 'mountain' of other legislation the Mr Sunak needs to get through Parliament.

The newspaper reported that three options were being considered, including carrying on with the Bill unchanged, altering the legislation to make it less complicated, or dtiching it entirely.

Government sources told The Times that scrapping the Bill was the most likely, although elements of it are likely to be repurposed in other legislation.

The Bill of Rights seeks to assert that British courts do not always need to follow case law from the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.

It also strives to put London's Supreme Court as the ultimate decision-maker on human rights issues.

Mr Raab previously told MPs the Bill would 'restore a healthy dose of common sense' to Britain's justice system.

David Cameron promised a 'British bill of rights' before the 2010 general election, but the plans were downgraded when the Tories ended up in coalition government with the Liberal Democrats.

After the Conservatives won a majority at the 2015 general election, Mr Raab - as a justice minister - produced a green paper on a UK Bill of Rights for Mr Cameron but the plans were delayed by the EU referendum.

Theresa May put off an overhaul of the Human Rights Act while she dealt with Brexit, but Boris Johnson revived the plans after winning the 2019 general election.

Mr Raab, as justice secretary, unveiled the long-awaited package of measures in June last year.

But he then saw his Bill of Rights halted when Liz Truss replaced Mr Johnson as PM and sacked Mr Raab from his role.

Mr Sunak reappointed Mr Raab as justice secretary and deputy PM after replacing Ms Truss in October, which allowed him to resume his work on the Bill of Rights.

Mr Raab resigned from Government last month after an independent months-long probe by Adam Tolley KC upheld two of eight complaints against him over alleged bullying of civil servants.

Following his exit from Cabinet, Mr Raab launched an astonishing attack on 'activist' civil servants who were attempting to 'block' the Government's work, including over human rights reform.

But some Tories welcomed suggestions that the Bill of Rights was being scrapped after Mr Raab's exit.

Sir Bob Neill, the Conservative chairman of House of Commons' Justice Committee, said: 'I think we frankly wasted time on this daft idea of a British Bill of Rights.

'And that took up more bandwidth than was necessary and I hope that will quietly die a death because I don't think that was a good idea.'

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'The new Lord Chancellor is looking carefully at the full range of the department's work before setting out plans in detail.'
Russia launched its biggest swarm of drones for months against Ukraine today after Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Russia will be defeated 'as Nazism was' on the eve of Moscow's dialled-down Victory Day parades.

Officials said attacks hit cities including Kharkiv, Kherson, Kyiv, Mykolaiv and Odesa ahead of the May 9 victory day commemoration tomorrow, a symbolically important holiday for President Vladimir Putin.

In Kyiv, the city's mayor said Russia had fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones at Ukrainian targets, including 36 at the capital, all of which had been shot down. Debris hit apartments and other buildings, injuring at least five people.

A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people were injured. The attack - which prompted nationwide air raid alerts - was the biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final, desperate push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut, to deliver Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for tomorrow's celebrations that every year commemorate the Soviet Union's triumph over the Nazis.



An explosion is seen during a Russian drone strike in Kyiv overnight

Another image shows smoke billowing during a drone strike on the Ukrainian capital, early this morning

Zelensky speaks at a press conference during his visit to the Netherlands on May 4

Smoke erupts following a shell explosion, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine in this screengrab obtained from a handout video released on May 7

Putin has relied heavily on Soviet-era rhetoric to justify his invasion of Ukraine.

He claims his so-called 'special military operation' is an effort to bring about the 'denazification' of a belligerent imperial power backed by the west, a narrative that has been refuted by Kyiv and its allies - who say the invasion is an imperialistic land grab by Russia with the goal of eradicating a sovereign nation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky countered this rhetoric today, saying Putin would be defeated 'as Nazism was', drawing comparisons between the Ukrainian defenders today and those who fought against the Nazis in the Second World War.

Ukrainian officials are warning that Putin plans to capture frontline cities by May 9, with a video over the weekend showing Russian forces launching an attack on Bakhmut with what appeared to be white phosphorus.

Aerial footage showed the city burning in a fiery inferno, in what appeared to be a desperate scorched earth tactic in a last-ditch effort to take the city.

As the air alerts sounded in Ukraine today, military bloggers said they could have been triggered by a Russian warplane armed with advanced Kinzhal hypersonic weapons, which MailOnline has been unable to verify.

Ukraine's air force claimed on Saturday to have downed its first Kinzhal missile over Kyiv using a newly acquired American Patriot defence system as strikes started to intensify.

Russia has ramped up air attacks on Ukraine in the lead-up to Victory Day as experts anticipate the start of a long-awaited Ukrainian counter-offensive.

On the frontline, ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi warned that Putin 'still hope[s] to capture [Bakhmut] by May 9.'

'Our task is to prevent this,' he said during a visit to the frontline city in eastern Ukraine.

Countering Putin's rhetoric, Zelensky vowed Monday that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany was beaten in 1945, during his own address commemorating the end of World War II.

In a new break with Moscow, Ukraine marked Victory Day on Monday, rather than Tuesday, in line with the practice of its Western allies.

Zelensky said he had signed a decree to officially change the date in future.

He added: 'Recalling the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers today.'

'Unfortunately, evil has returned. Just as evil rushed into our towns and villages then, so it does not. As it killed out people then, so it does now.'

'And all the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated, just as Nazism was defeated.'

The move to celebrate Victory Day on May 9 is just the latest in a series of steps Ukraine has taken in recent years to distance itself from Moscow, including by renaming streets and towns named after Soviet figures.

Zelensky said Ukraine would instead mark Europe Day on May 9, which promotes peace and unity on the continent.

The EU welcomed the move, and said European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen would visit Kyiv for talks with Zelensky on Tuesday.

Pictured: A large hole is seen in the side of an apartment building in Kyiv after Putin's forces unleashed a swarm of kamikaze drones against Ukraine on Monday, May 8

Pictured: People gather in a playground outside a damage building near Kyiv on Monday

Pictured: The view from inside an apartment building that was hit by a Russian drone, May 8

People shelter in a subway station during an air raid alert in Kyiv on May 4

A child shelters in a subway station in Kyiv amid increased Russian air strikes on May 4

Russia and other ex-soviet states celebrate Victory Day on May 9, while most other European countries mark the date on May 8, due to the time difference when Nazi Germany signed to surrender in 1945.

Western nations that celebrate Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) do so to mark the end of all combat actions in the Second World War, which was officially specified as as 23:01 Central European Time, which was already May 9 in Eastern Europe.

Despite the importance of the holiday in Russia, many parades have been cancelled or limited due in part to security concerns.

Last week, Russia accused Ukraine being behind a double drone attack that it said was an assassination attempt against Putin. Video showed what appeared to be two drones striking the Kremlin. Ukraine denied involvement.

Russia has also lost much of the military hardware in its failed winter offensive it could have used to put on a show.

At least six regions in Russia had scrapped celebrations before the drone strike on the Kremlin heightened fears last week.

A Moscow official, speaking on conditions of anonymity, told The Guardian that 'there is a nervousness that I have never seen before' ahead of the holiday.

Events could be important for Russia in keeping up morale and support for Putin's on-going war, which has taken a massive toll on Russian personnel.

At home, support seems mixed at best. While there are issues in gathering reliable data, recent polling suggests around 43 percent are in favour of continuing the fight.

Only 30 percent in February 2023 believed the narrative that the invasion of Ukraine was an pre-emptive attack needed to prevent a NATO invasion.

Polling is made difficult by strict war censorship laws. In 2022, more than 20,000 people were detained for 'demonstrating anti-war sentiment in public' - and some sent to prison for dissent.

Last month, a Russian pensioner was fined 40,000 rubles (410) by a Russian court just for calling Zelensky a 'handsome young man'.

Wilson Centre research notes loyalists are more likely to agree to be surveyed than regime opponents.

Ukraine, which last year drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory, has kept its troops on the defensive for the past six months, but says it is preparing a massive counteroffensive in coming weeks.

Many of the details of Ukraine's planned counteroffensive remain secret but Ukraine will seek to push through the contested regions in the east and south that have been pinned under artillery fire for months.

Cities like Bakhmut in the Donetsk Oblast of eastern Ukraine have seen months of intense fighting between opposing factions, with civilian areas in-between razed during the clashes.

However, Ukraine's Defence Minister has warned that raising expectations could lead to 'emotional disappointment'.

Oleksii Reznikov said in an interview last week: 'The expectation from our counteroffensive campaign is overestimated in the world. Most people are waiting for something huge.'

American planners have raised also concerns that Ukraine will have only modest success in achieving its aims, to break Russia's land connection to the Crimean peninsula while exploiting weaknesses to reclaim contested territories in the east.

Despite efforts to supply weapons and training to Ukraine, leaked documents from April warn that 'enduring Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions supplies probably will strain progress and exacerbate casualties during the offensive'.

US Joint Chief of Staff Mark Milley has said since that Ukraine does have the leadership and morale needed to beat Russia.

A cossack walks past decorations for the upcoming celebrations marking the 78th anniversary of the 1945 victory over Nazi Germany, set up just off the Kremlin in central Moscow on May 3

Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on the development of unmanned aircraft, at the Rudnyovo industrial park in Moscow, on April 27

Russia's costly winter campaign captured almost no ground, apart from around the small eastern city of Bakhmut.

Russian troops in Bakhmut are led by Wagner, a private army that recruited thousands of convicts from prison.

Its boss announced last week that he would pull out of Bakhmut, denouncing the regular army for failing to give his fighters enough ammunition.

However, he appeared to reverse himself on Sunday, saying he had now been promised the weapons he needs.
A furious Range Rover driver with a child in the passenger seat next to him shouted 'c****' at Just Stop Oil activists who returned to disrupt the streets of London after the King's Coronation.

Protesters were out in Marble Arch and around Piccadilly, infuriating people trying to travel with their slow march.

Motorists beeped their horns at the activists - but it did not seem to deter the group who appeared unfazed and carried on strolling while holding their huge banners.

Police were seen at the scene, negotiating with demonstrators to get out of the road.

It comes after Scotland Yard made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

A furious driver trying to make his way through London as JSO protesters blocked the way

The protesters infuriated one driver so much that he called them 'c****' while travelling with a young girl in the passenger seat

Protesters started just after 10am on Piccadilly by the Ritz Hotel - they appear to be putting on their high vis jackets in preparation

Protesters slow marching in the Green Park/Piccadilly area

Metropolitan Police officers talking to Just Stop Oil protesters this morning

The protesters in high vis jackets holding banners saying 'just stop oil'

In video footage from Marble Arch posted online a protester called Sophie can be heard blasting out through a megaphone: 'I am 30 years old, I have a niece who is six, I would one day like to have children but the government are not safeguarding our future.'

She accused the government of opening new oil and gas licences, describing it as a 'war against the young'.

Other footage posted on Twitter showed an officer asking a protester: 'Is there any way we can accommodate you moving to the side, off the road?'

But the protester simply said: 'No I don't think so'.

The officer told him that was a 'shame' - adding that the police now had 'a lot of resources' while looking behind at his colleagues.

'It's a shame to have to have this conversation when if you were to take 10 steps to the left or right, cars can flow, and we can then still walk alongside you.'

Numerous people were arrested amidst the crowning of His Majesty on Saturday as Scotland Yard clamped down on those suspected of causing trouble. Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drugs possession.

Breach of the peace, sexual assault and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance were among the various grounds for arrest over the course of the Royal event.

Several Just Stop Oil protestors were arrested in addition to Animal Rising groups who were also linked to the Grand National chaos last month.

Just Stop Oil protesters are back out on the streets of London slow marching - pictured in Marble Arch

Activists claim the government is not 'safeguarding' their future

Police appear to be monitoring their march again - through the streets of central London

This protester says he used to be a pilot - but now is against new oil and gas

Metropolitan Police officers said they arrested three people in Soho on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance at around 2am on the morning of King Charles' Coronation.

The force revealed that numerous rape alarms were seized and the three people were taken to a south London police station for further questioning.

A 47-year-old man among the group was also further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A statement read: 'There was particular concern from military colleagues that this would scare their horses involved in the procession and, as a result, cause significant risk to the safety of the public and the riders.'

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan also added: 'The intelligence we received led us to be extremely worried about the potential risk to public safety. We are aware of and understand there is public concern over these arrests. However, the matter is still under investigation.'
Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang speaks during the forum titled Chinese Modernization and the World held at The Grand Halls in Shanghai, on April 21. China's foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday, that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must "reflect deeply" before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said. AP-Yonhap



China's foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must "reflect deeply" before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said.



Qin Gang's comments follow a suspension of serious dialogue on a range of issues between the world's largest economies, increasingly at odds over tariffs, attempts by Washington to deprive China of cutting-edge technology, and China's claims to self-governing Taiwan and large parts of the South and East China Seas.



China's Foreign Ministry quoted Qin as telling Ambassador Nicolas Burns that a "series of erroneous words and deeds by the U.S." since a meeting in November between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping "have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations."



"The U.S. side should reflect deeply, meet China halfway, and propel China-U.S. relations out of the difficulties and back on the right track," Qin was quoted as saying.



The United States should "correct its understanding of China and return to rationality," Qin said, repeating his earlier accusation that the U.S. is attempting to suppress and contain China. Beijing routinely cites U.S. political and military support of Taiwan as infringing on its sovereignty.



Qin said ties had "grown icy" and the priority was to stabilize them "and avoid a downward spiral and unanticipated events."



The U.S. should stop "undermining China's sovereignty, security, and development interests," particularly through support of Taiwan's independent identity, Qin said.



China says Taiwan must come under its rule, by force if necessary, while the United States says the relationship between the sides must be resolved peaceably. U.S. law requires it to treat threats to Taiwan, including a military blockade, as a matter of "grave concern," though it remains ambiguous under what conditions U.S. forces could be dispatched to defend the island.



Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, the U.S. is Taiwan's largest supplier of military hardware and diplomatic support, even while it continues to maintain relations with Beijing. Biden has been seen as going a step further by repeatedly saying that the U.S. would back Taiwan militarily, and America has been upgrading basing arrangements with the Philippines, located just south of Taiwan.



U.S.-China military contacts have been on hold for years, and China's top staff refused to answer a call from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after then-Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last year. China retaliated for the visit by staging a naval and air force blockade of Taiwan and cutting off channels of communication with the U.S. on issues from environmental protection to maritime security.



At a daily briefing Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin described the meeting between Qin and Burns as "a normal diplomatic arrangement."



In a tweet, Burns said he met with Qin and "discussed challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication."



In comments to a U.S. think tank last week, Burns said Washington has been consistent in its approach toward Taiwan and insists that "any resolution of the (cross-Taiwan Strait) differences has to be peaceful."



"We hope that the government here in China will commit itself to a peaceful resolution of the dispute," Burns said in an online discussion with the Washington-based Stimson Center.



The U.S. "has the obligation as well as the interest to make sure that we can provide defensive arms to Taiwan so that the Taiwan authorities can have a proper defense and we can help them build up a deterrence," he said.



"If Taiwan has a sufficient deterrence in place, and if other countries around the world are supporting a peaceful resolution, one would hope that that would lead the Chinese to understand the consequences of the use of force in the Taiwan Strait," Burns said.



Contacts between Washington and Beijing have been fraught for months since U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a Beijing trip aimed at easing U.S.-China tensions in February. That came after a large high-altitude Chinese balloon was shot down after it sailed across the U.S., drawing Pentagon accusations of spying on sensitive military sites despite firm Chinese denials. (AP)


The Biden administration is working on new regulations that would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the company's control.

The aim of the rules would be, for the first time, to require airlines to pay compensation beyond a ticket refund and to cover expenses that consumers incur, including rebooking on another flight, if the airline causes a cancellation or significant delay.

The White House said President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg would announce the start of the rulemaking process on Monday.

The rulemaking pledge continues a push by the Democratic administration to require airlines to improve customer service, and it comes just weeks before the start of the peak summer travel season.

'When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill,' Buttigieg said in a statement.

Pictured: Stranded airline passengers look for their luggage in the baggage claim area at Chicago Midway International Airport, on December 28, 2022 (file photo)

Pictured: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg attends a meeting with President Joe Biden's 'Investing in America Cabinet,' in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, in Washington on May 5, 2023

Currently, when an airline cancels a flight for any reason, consumers can demand a refund of the unused part of their ticket and certain extras that they might have paid to the airline, such as fees for checking a bag or getting a seat assignment. Airlines often try to persuade consumers to accept a travel voucher instead of a refund.

After widespread flight disruptions last summer, the Transportation Department posted an online dashboard that was designed to pressure the airlines to improve customer service. The site lets consumers check each airline's policy on refunds and compensation when flights are canceled or delayed.

Each of the 10 largest US airlines quickly promised to provide cash or vouchers for meals when a cancellation forces passengers to wait at least three hours for another flight. Nine of the 10 - all but Frontier Airlines - also promised to pay for accommodations for passengers stranded overnight.

Questions arose again around reimbursing consumers for out-of-pocket costs after Southwest Airlines canceled nearly 17,000 flights during a December meltdown in service.

Desperate passengers were forced to sleep in terminals surrounded by growing mounds of lost luggage after being stranded at airports when the airline canceled more than 80 per cent of its flight schedule, causing President Biden to weigh in.

Pictured: President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting with his 'Investing in America Cabinet,' in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, on May 5, 2023

Distressed travelers, some of whom were not be able to return home for nearly a week, bemoaned the frantic scenes in airport terminals as Biden's Administration vowed to 'ensure airlines are held accountable' for the disarray caused by Southwest.

The Transportation and Justice departments are investigating whether Southwest scheduled more flights than it realistically could handle.

The Transportation Department says it is working with the airlines to reduce cancellations and delays this summer, when air travel could exceed pre-coronavirus pandemic records.

A report last month from the congressional Government Accountability Office blamed airlines for many cancellations, but the Federal Aviation Administration has also created disruptions due to technology outages and staffing shortages.

The FAA recently encouraged airlines to reduce flights to and from major New York airports this summer because it doesn't have enough air traffic controllers at a key facility.
The former head of the British Army has revealed he is 'uncomfortable' with the Government's plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.

General Lord Richard Dannatt warned of the African country's 'pretty dark history' and said the 'shadow of genocide' hangs over the nation.

The ex-military chief claimed the Tory proposals to send migrants to Rwanda was an 'unpopular policy'.

He also questioned why Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was allowing the 'political capital' of his Government to be depleted by the scheme.

Lord Dannatt's intervention comes ahead of the return of the Illegal Migration Bill to the House of Lords this week.

Mr Sunak has faced warnings peers are poised to block his legislation aimed at easing the Channel migrant crisis.

General Lord Richard Dannatt warned of Rwanda's 'pretty dark history' and said the 'shadow of genocide' hangs over the nation

Home Secretary Suella Braverman met Rwandan President Paul Kagame during a visit to Kigali in March, as she held further talks over the migration scheme

The Government has consistently pointed to its 120million migration scheme with Rwanda as a means of cracking down on Channel migrant crossings

The Government has consistently pointed to its 120million migration scheme with Rwanda as a means of cracking down on the small boat crossings.

But plans to fly asylum seekers to Africa have been blocked by legal rows, including an 11th-hour intervention by the European Court of Human Rights last summer.

Speaking to the Independent, Lord Dannatt said the Government was 'entitled to bear down on people coming on small boats who are simply seeking a better life'.

But the crossbench peer added: 'Whether sending people to Rwanda is the right policy, I have my doubts.

'It seems to be aimed at deterring others from coming, because there is a strong sanction against them. I'm uncomfortable with it.'

Lord Dannatt is a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on War Crimes, which looks into matters related to the presence of alleged Rwandan war criminals in the UK.

The group also considers the prosecution of those who participated in the Rwandan genocide against the Tutsis in 1994.

'I've been to Rwanda, and the shadow of the genocide there in the 1990s hangs over that country,' Lord Dannatt said.

He described the country as being 'ruled with a very firm hand' by Paul Kagame, the former military officer who has been the Rwandan President since 2000.

The peer added: 'Its got a pretty dark history, and its not the sort of environment I would put people from Syria and elsewhere in the world into.'

Home Secretary Suella Braverman met Mr Kagame during a visit to Rwandan capital Kigali in March, as she held further talks over the migration scheme.

'Its somewhat surprising Suella Braverman is persisting with an unpopular policy,' Lord Dannatt said.

'I fail to understand why the Home Secretary is continuing to run down the remaining political capital of Rishi Sunak's Government.'

Opinion polling last month found almost half of Britons support plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda - although most don't believe it will end the Channel migrant crisis.

A survey by the More In Common think tank, carried out between April 6 to 11, found that 46 per cent of people still support the Rwanda scheme.

This compared to 28 per cent who oppose it and 27 per cent who said they were apathetic or had not made up their mind.

It also showedalmost half (48 per cent) believed the policy would not make a difference to the number of people crossing the Channel in small boats.

A further 3 per cent said it would lead to more migrants entering the UK illegally.

This compared to only a third (34 per cent) who thought the Rwanda scheme would reduce the number of Channel migrant crossings, while 14 per cent said they did not know whether the plan would work.
A 15-year-old boy has been charged with murdering a man who was stabbed to death outside a McDonald's.

Ben Moncrieff, 18, was pronounced dead at the scene in Southgate Street, Bath city centre after emergency services were called just before 3.30am on Saturday.

The teen suspect remained in custody over the weekend while two others who were initially arrested were released without charge.

The boy, from South London, has since been charged with murder and possession of a bladed article. He was remanded to appear before magistrates in Bristol today.

Avon and Somerset Police say Mr Moncrieff's family were notified of the charging decision and will continue to be supported by specially-trained officers.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of Ben Moncrieff (pictured). The 18-year-old was stabbed to death outside a McDonald's in Bath early Saturday morning

Officers were called to the Southgate Street area of Bath, in Somerset, at around 3.30am on Saturday where Mr Moncrieff was found critically injured and died at the scene. Police are pictured at the scene on Saturday

Officers were called to the Southgate Street area of Bath, in Somerset, at around 3.30am on Saturday where Mr Moncrieff was found critically injured and died at the scene.

Avon and Somerset Police said three people were arrested the same day, with two released without charge and a teenage suspect still in custody after police were granted more time to question him.

It was confirmed this morning that the suspect has been charged and will appear in court today.

Police have launched an investigation into Mr Moncrieff's death and a post-mortem will be carried out in due course.

One witness previously told reporters he saw a male stab another young male outside the fast food chain, before security intervened.

'I was going home, and there was around 15 younger people outside McDonald's and I saw a male stab a male and he fell to the floor,' the witness said.

The teenage suspect, from South London, has since been charged with murder and possession of a bladed article. He was remanded to appear before magistrates in Bristol today.

Police have launched an investigation into Mr Moncrieff's death and a post-mortem will be carried out in due course. Forensics officers are pictured outside the fast food restaurant in Bath city centre on Saturday

Officers are are understood to be reviewing a significant amount of CCTV footage and have urged any witnesses to come forward. Officers are pictured at the scene on Saturday

'Security then restrained the male to the floor. Other security gave CPR to try and save him but this wasn't successful.

'People then tried to get to the lad who was being restrained. The police took a while to get there, it was chaos. Seeing the poor lad on the floor dead will live with me forever.'

Officers are are understood to be reviewing a significant amount of CCTV footage and have urged any witnesses to come forward.

Meanwhile, Mr Moncrieff's devastated friends and family paid tribute to him over the weekend as they sought to raise money for his funeral.

University of Bath student Alfie Rosser, who started the GoFundMe, said: Ben was a hard working lad who had his life taken for no reason.

The pain were all experiencing is something words cant describe, but I hope youre happy up there seeing us all cherish the many memories we all made with you.

Mr Moncrieff's devastated friends and family paid tribute tho him over the weekend as they sought to raise money for his funeral. The crowdfunder has already raised more than 5,000. Pictured: A floral tribute was left outside the restaurant on Saturday

Ben was not only one of the most loving people I had the pleasure to meet, he was also the funniest.

He brought endless smiles to everyone who was lucky enough to meet him and will never be forgotten.

Ben you deserved so much better than this and for that reason I hope we can raise money to give him the funeral and send off he deserves. You will be missed forever, Ben, we will never forget you.

The GoFundMe page, titled 'Giving Ben the send off he deserves', has so far raised more than 5,200 towards helping Mr Moncrieff's family with funeral costs.
At least 260 migrants arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel this weekend while the rest of the country celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III, according to official figures.

On Saturday and Sunday the Home Office recorded 269 migrant arrivals into the UK.

The latest arrivals were seen this morning after being rescued by a Border Force vessel following a small boat incident in the Channel.

The group of adults and small children, all thought to be migrants, were seen wearing life jackets and disembarking Dover earlier today.

Government figures reveal that a total of 6,549 asylum seekers have crossed the Channel in 156 boats to date in 2023. In the eight days of May alone, there have already been 603 migrants arriving in the UK.

On Saturday and Sunday the Home Office recorded 269 migrant arrivals into the UK. Pictured are a group of people thought to be migrants in Dover this morning

A person thought to be a migrant is pictured being helped to their feet by Border Force officials

Last month month saw 1,859 migrants arrive on British soil by inflatable dinghy or other small craft, making it the busiest this year, and April 22 saw 497 people undertake the perilous journey over a 24-hour period - a record day for 2023 at this stage.

Last week Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama launched another scathing attack on the UK, stating that the country was in 'a bad place' and having a 'nervous breakdown' over the flow of thousands of people from the Continent in small boats.

Prime Minister Rama signed a deal with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in December to stem the flow of illegal immigration as part of one of Sunak's key pledges but has made no secret of his dislike of incendiary rhetoric used by senior British politicians.

Figures showed that at least 13,000 Albanians entered Britain on small boats last year - just under a third of all arrivals. And Albanians made up the biggest proportion of the more than 45,000 people who crossed the Channel illegally last year.

At one stage last summer, they represented 60 per cent of arrivals in small boats.

Thousands sought asylum, even though Albania is considered 'safe and hospitable' by the Foreign Office.

Overall, 45,755 migrants undertook the treacherous journey in 2022 - a 60 per cent increase on 2021s total of 28,526.

However, officials have predicted that as many as 80,000 people could make the crossing this year.

A group of people thought to be migrants are pictured after being rescued by a Border Force vessel following a small boat incident in the Channel

In a statement, 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.'
A British tourist is in intensive care in hospital in Majorca following a suspected carbon monoxide leak which claimed the life of her husband.

The 39-year-old holidaymaker was rushed to Manacor Hospital on Saturday, found unconscious next to her lifeless partner, 40, at a house in Cala Mesquida.

The pair, who have not been officially named, had flown from their home in Edinburgh to spend time at a family-owned property.

A relative is said to have called emergency services after being unable to raise them.

An investigation into the tragedy was ongoing as of Monday, although initial local reports have pointed to the cause being a faulty gas-powered fridge.

Manacor hospital on the island of Majorca, pictured in September 2021. The tourist was taken to the hospital after being found unconscious at a house in Cala Mesquida on Saturday

Well-placed sources said they were investigating the possibility deadly carbon monoxide gas had been seeping out all night while the couple slept in the main bedroom.

The couple have not been officially named but the woman at the centre of the drama is understood to be an Edinburgh-based former bank worker.

Her husband, who has been described locally as coming from the UK, is believed to have been born in Spain and acquired British nationality through marriage.

He moved to Edinburgh several years ago to work in financial services after spending time in London.

His wife is believed to be unaware her partner has died because of the severity of her condition.

A local hospital source confirmed on Monday she was 'serious' in intensive care.

The latest tragedy occurred less than five months after a similar drama claimed the lives of a British couple at their expat home in Majorca.

Michael Rowan, 62, and his 56-year-old partner Sharon Price were found lifeless at their country property near the picturesque town of Selva, around an hour's drive from Cala Mesquida, on December 19 last year after their worried UK-based son got someone to go round and check on them.

A subsequent post-mortem confirmed they died of carbon monoxide poisoning at the farmhouse they had moved to the previous year.

Their bodies lay undiscovered for two days.

Local reports at the time linked the intoxications to a leak in a wood burning stove through loose-fitting pipework that meant poisonous fumes entered the room where it was installed.

The motor of a portable generator said to have been kept inside the property, despite recommendations appliances of this kind should be kept outside, is also believed to have produced the odourless and colourless gas blamed for the couple's deaths.

Cala Mesquida, a holiday location famed for its clear skies, blue waters and sandy beaches

The nearest town to Cala Mesquida, famed for its beautiful sandy beach and popular with Germans and British, is Capdepera which is about five miles away.

The house where the latest gas leak tragedy occurred has been described as a rural property.

Unconfirmed local reports say it is owned by the dead man's father.
A doctor is being investigated after reportedly 'climbing on to a pregnant woman's stomach' and pulling her baby's head off during childbirth while the horrified father was watching.

The family of the dead baby say that the girl was alive when she started to emerge and that after the traumatic incident, the hospital tried to pressure them into signing documents which would cover up what had happened.

The incident on May 1 is said to have taken place at the Hospital das Clinicas da UFMG, in the Santa Efigenia neighbourhood of Belo Horizonte in Brazil.

Ranielly Coelho Santos, the baby's mother, launched a complaint with the police two days after the failed delivery of her child. Officers are now investigating the shock death of the infant.

Ms Santos, 34, who already has a nine-year-old daughter, was taken into hospital on April 24, 28 weeks into her pregnancy, over concerns for her high blood pressure, before doctors induced labour seven days later.

A doctor is being investigated after reportedly pulling a baby's head off during childbirth at the Hospital das Clinicas da UFMG (pictured) in Brazil as a horrified father watched on

During the birth, the obstetrician, who has not been named, reportedly called the girl's father to observe the procedure closely.

The father, who was watching the birth of his baby alongside Ms Santos' mother, says that he even saw his daughter blinking and moving her mouth, which he said was proof the girl was alive and well.

However, in a tragic turn of events, according to the family's report to the police, the doctor climbed onto the mother's belly as she attempted to pull the girl out, and 'ripped off the child's head'.

The police report also says that the family, from Ribeirao das Neves, a municipality on the outskirts of Belo Horizonte, received an apology from the doctor for what happened during the delivery of the baby.

They say they were later approached by a social worker at the hospital who said that the facility would bear all the costs for the baby's burial.

However, the offer was understood to only be valid if they agreed to sign documents stating that 'the autopsy had already been performed at the hospital', that 'the child's body had already been examined' and that 'the body would not be forwarded to the Legal Medical Institute (IML)' for further analysis.

Ranielly Coelho Santos, the baby's mother, launched a complaint with the police two days after the failed delivery of her child. Pictured: Santa Efigenia neighbourhood of Belo Horizonte

The parents refused to sign the paperwork and later filed a complaint with the police, with the baby's remains then being examined at the IML, according to the family's lawyer Jennifer Valente.

The hospital told Itatiaia that it 'deeply regretted' the case and said they would 'make every effort to investigate the facts' while awaiting the autopsy report.

The baby's body is set to be released to the parents today so that it may be buried by the devastated family.

MailOnline has independently contacted the hospital for comment.
Ted Cruz criticized for praying for victims' families rather than acting with laws

Mauricio Garcia, 33, killed eight people at mall before being shot dead by police

Ted Cruz is facing backlash for saying he is 'praying' for the families of the eight victims killed in the Texas mall mass shooting instead of advocating for meaningful gun control laws that would prevent such heinous crimes.

In the hours after Mauricio Garcia, 33, opened fire on shoppers with a AR-15 at the Allen Premium Outlets mall on Saturday, the Texas Senator tweeted his thoughts and prayers are with the families of those shot dead.

Eight people, including a child, were shot dead by Garcia before the gunman was killed by a police officer who had been called to the mall on another assignment.

Cruz tweeted: 'Heidi and I are praying for the families of the victims of the horrific mall shooting in Allen, Texas. We pray also for the broader Collin County community that's in shock from this tragedy.'

But Cruz faced criticism for repeatedly saying his thoughts and prayers are with those affected by mass shootings rather than advocating for better gun control laws.

Ted Cruz is facing backlash for saying he is 'praying' for the families of the eight victims killed in the Texas mall mass shooting instead of advocating for meaningful gun control laws that would prevent such heinous crimes

Shoppers leave as law enforcement officers respond to the mass shooting in the Dallas area's Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

'You helped arm him with guns, ammo and tactical gear,' Shannon Watts, founder of gun safety group Moms Demand Action, wrote on Twitter in response to Cruz's statement on the shopping mall massacre.

READ MORE: Second victim of Texas mall massacre is identified alongside 20-year-old security guard Advertisement

'He did exactly what you knew he'd do. Spare us your prayers and talk of justice for a gunman who is dead. The only accountability we can hope for is that gun extremists like you are thrown into the ash heap of history,' Watts added.

Steven Spainhouer, a former police and army officer who witnessed the shooting, said: 'Prayers and condolences won't bring these people back. We need some action in our legislatures at the federal and state level for better gun control, and I'm saying that as someone who loves guns.'

Spainhouer said it is long pastime automatic weapons were removed from everyday public life, on account of the rising number of mass shootings. The Texas mall massacre was the 199th mass shooting in America so far this year.

'I'm a gun lover, I have guns. But these M4s, AR-15s, they've got to get off the streets or this is going to keep happening, and we've got to stop that at some point,' he told MSNBC.

Others on Twitter wrote that Cruz's thoughts and prayers 'are nothing but blasphemy and evil'. Another wrote: 'Have you tried turning the prayer machine off and back on again.'

Cruz has received more than $442,000 from organizations which support keeping guns as accessible to the public as possible, according to Open Secrets and Axios.

The Senator has previously said his and his wife Heidi's thoughts and prayers are with the victims of mass shootings - rather than advocating for gun control laws. In the past 12 months, there have been 91 mass shootings where 200 people have died.

After an 18-year-old gunman shot dead 17 children and two teachers at the Robb Elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, last year using a AR-15 type rifle, Cruz had said: 'Heidi and I are lifting up in prayer the entire community during this devastating time and we mourn the lives that were taken by this act of evil.

'None of us can imagine the anguish the parents in Uvalde are going through. Our hearts go out to them.'

After an 18-year-old gunman shot dead 17 children and two teachers at the Robb Elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, Ted Cruz offered his thoughts and prayers. Pictured: Children run to safety after escaping from a window during a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School where a gunman killed nineteen children and two adults in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24, 2022

Cruz went further than prayers last month when an illegal Mexican migrant shot dead five neighbours, including a nine-year-old boy, when they had asked him to stop shooting his weapon in his yard. Pictured: The scene of the shooting in Cleveland on April 29

Cruz (pictured in Washington DC on May 3) faced criticism for repeatedly saying his thoughts and prayers are with those affected by mass shootings rather than advocating for better gun control laws

And in response to a shooting at a Walmart in El Paso in 2019 that left 23 people dead, Cruz said: 'Heidi & I are praying for everyone in El Paso. As events continue to unfold, please heed any warnings from local authorities and law enforcement and stay safe.'

Cruz went further than prayers last month when an illegal Mexican migrant shot dead five neighbours, including a nine-year-old boy, when they had asked him to stop shooting his weapon in his yard in Cleveland.

Cruz tweeted: 'Thank you to the brave men and women of law enforcement who worked tirelessly to apprehend this mass murdering illegal alien who killed 5 innocent people.

'The victims deserve justice. And this monster when convicted deserves the death penalty.'

Meanwhile, Texas Governor Greg Abbott attributed the rising number of mass shootings to a mental health crisis.

Abbott said on Sunday: 'We need to recognize the reality we've seen across the United States over the last year or two, and that is an increased number of shootings in both red states and blue states.

'We've seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws, as well as states with very strict gun laws. I think that the state in which the largest number of victims occurred this year is in California, where they have very tough gun laws.'

"It wasn't mental health that killed these people, it was an automatic rifle with bullets... I'm a former police officer, a former Army officer. These M4s, AR-15s, they've got to get off the streets or this is going to keep happening" - Allen, TX mall shooting witness Steven pic.twitter.com/QFmXgq1DU8  Shawn Reynolds (@ShawnReynolds_) May 7, 2023

Steven Spainhouer shared his belief that it is access to automatic assault rifles, and not a mental health crisis, that is driving the uptick in mass shootings in the US

But Spainhouer said that he works around people with mental health issues, and argued that easy access to automatic rifles is the more severe threat to public safety.

'It could be you, it could be your family,' said Spainhouer. 'I never imagined it would be me, I never imagined it would happen in my community. But it did. We've got to stop this type of carnage.'

In a statement on Sunday, President Biden renewed calls for Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as to enact universal background checks and end immunity for gun manufacturers.

The president noted that Garcia had been wielding an AR-15 rifle and wearing tactical gear. Investigators had also found several handguns, long guns and ammunition inside Garcia's car at the scene of the shooting.

'Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts,' said Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

"Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables," Biden said, as he berated his political opponents for inaction.

"Republican members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug," he said. "Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough."

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the US which has seen an average of about one mass killing per week.

Over the first four months and six days of this year, 115 people have died in 22 mass killings - an average of one mass killing a week. That includes the bloodshed Saturday at a Dallas-area mall where eight people were fatally shot.

The total represents the highest number of mass-killing deaths this early in the year since at least 2006, an Associated Press data analysis shows, and the deaths were already happening at a record pace before the horror unfolded in Texas.
The Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis has claimed his country is 'not totally free' while King Charles is its head of state, signalling the eastern Caribbean county could be the next to become a republic.

Terrance Drew, of the St Kitts and Nevis Labour party who won a snap election in August, told the BBC a public consultation on whether the Commonwealth realm nation should become a republic will start during his leadership.

Dr Drew has also called on the monarchy to apologise for its historic links to the slave trade, according to the BBC.

Buckingham Palace said King Charles III takes slavery 'profoundly seriously', amid his support for a landmark study into historical links between the monarchy and slavery.

St Kitts and Nevis prime minister Dr Drew was among world leaders who posed in a group photograph with Charles after attending a Commonwealth reception at Marlborough House in London on Friday, ahead of the Coronation at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

Commonwealth leaders from Kiribati, Nigeria, St Kitts and Nevis, Togo, Tuvalu, Tonga, Samoa, Seychelles, Tanzania, Namibia, Rwanda, Malawi, Antigua and Barbados, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Guyana, Lesotho, Fiji, Zambia, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka and Gabon met at a reception ahead of the King's Coronation

Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis Terrance Drew was among the Commonwealth leaders who met King Charles at a reception on May 5 ahead of his Coronation

St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrence Drew

King Charles is sovereign of 14 Commonwealth realms in addition to the UK, while the Commonwealth as a whole is a voluntary association of 56 independent nations, almost all of which were formerly under British rule.

READ MORE: Majority of British public think Charles should not apologise for slavery, new poll shows Advertisement

Ahead of the Coronation, representatives from 12 Commonwealth countries joined forces to call on Charles to acknowledge and apologise for the impacts and ongoing legacy from British 'genocide and colonisation'.

It comes amid a republican push across the Commonwealth, with Barbados becoming a republic in 2021 when it replaced the late Queen with a president as its head of state.

There has since been speculation that other countries, such as Jamaica, could follow suit.

Last year, Jamaica said that it plans to pursue independence, and in February Australia decided to remove the British monarch from the last of its banknotes, although an image of Charles is expected to feature on coins.

Ahead of the Coronation, a poll suggested that nearly half of the King's realms, including Canada and Australia, would vote to become republics if a referendum was held tomorrow.

Research by former Conservative deputy chairman Lord Ashcroft found that of the 14 overseas countries where he is head of state, six - Australia, Canada, the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Solomon Islands, and Antigua and Barbuda  would vote to ditch the monarchy.

Research by former Conservative deputy chairman Lord Ashcroft reveals the true scale of the challenge Charles faces abroad

It found that of the 14 overseas countries where he is head of state, six  Australia, Canada, the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Solomon Islands, and Antigua and Barbuda  would vote to ditch the monarchy

Last week, New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said that he personally favours his country - which is self-governing but sees Charles retaining a largely ceremonial role as head of state and King - becoming a republic.

In early April, Charles expressed his support for the first time for research into the historical links between the British monarchy and the transatlantic slave trade.

Buckingham Palace said the royal household will help with the academic project by offering access to the Royal Collection and the Royal Archives.

The research is expected to analyse previous rulers' involvement with slave-trading companies, including the Royal African Company and its deputy governor, Edward Colston, whose statue was thrown into Bristol Harbour by anti-racism protesters.

Charles's support for the academic work, carried out by the University of Manchester with Historic Royal Palaces, was welcomed by researchers and campaigners.

But others voiced fears it could open the door to the Royal Family and the Government facing demands to pay compensation, or reparations, for their role in the slave trade and colonialism.

Speaking in the St Kitts and Nevis capital Basseterre, Dr Drew told the BBC that the research was a 'step in the right direction'.

'I think that acknowledging that... something wrong was done, acknowledging it and apologising for it, is a step in the right direction,' he reportedly said.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: 'This is an issue that His Majesty takes profoundly seriously.'

They cited a speech by Charles to Commonwealth leaders in Rwanda last year, when he said: 'I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many, as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slavery's enduring impact.'

The spokesperson added: 'That learning process has continued with vigour and determination since His Majesty's Accession.

'As one part of it, the Royal Household is supporting Historic Royal Palaces' independent research project that is exploring, among other issues, the links between the British Monarchy and the Trans-Atlantic slave trade during the late 17th and 18th centuries.'

On the references to republics, the spokesperson added: 'His Majesty has long acknowledged the discussion about constitutional arrangements with the royal family.

Princess Anne insisted today that the monarchy is in safe hands with King Charles after sitting down for a rare interview ahead of her brother's Coronation

In his Rwanda speech, Charles said: 'I want to say clearly, as I have said before, that each member's constitutional arrangement, as republic or monarchy, is purely a matter for each member country to decide.

'The benefit of long life brings me the experience that arrangements such as these can change, calmly and without rancour.'

Last week, the late Queen's only daughter Princess Anne, 72, distanced the Windsors from the slave trade amid calls for Britain and the royals to pay compensation.

When asked about what her brother meant about 'support', she said: 'It's not really a subject of conversation that I would even go down. I have a historical perspective which is slightly different, maybe more realistic.'

'The historical perspective [is] it just goes back a lot further. And the modern contexts are very different. Slavery hasn't gone away.'

The future role of the monarchy in the realms came under renewed scrutiny following the death of the Queen and controversies surrounding royal trips to Caribbean countries by the Prince and Princess of Wales and Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh last year.

Prince William and Princess Kate's royal trip in March 2022 to Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas was criticised over allegedly 'tone deaf' images, which critics claimed were reminiscent of colonial days.

The controversial photos showed the couple, then known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, shaking hands with Kingston crowds behind a mesh wire fence, and standing in the back of a Land Rover.

Belize locals also claimed they were not consulted about a royal engagement, and the couple were met with calls for slavery reparations from the monarchy in Jamaica.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie also faced calls for reparations during their tour of Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines in April 2022.
The Tory inquest into the party's local elections battering last week continues

The Tories' local elections disaster can be blamed on Rishi Sunak's 'major mistake' in abandoning housebuilding targets, an ex-Cabinet minister has claimed.

Simon Clarke, the former levelling up secretary, called on the Government to 'get back to building the homes that people need' as a 'matter of urgency'.

He warned the Conservatives not to 'pander to the public's worst instincts' and insisted they 'cannot out-Nimby the Liberal Democrats and the Greens'.

Rishi Sunak saw the Tories lose more than 1,000 councillors and close to 50 councils in an electoral bloodbath on Thursday.

The Prime Minister today declined to apologise to the vast swathes of Conservative councillors who lost their seats, but admitted it was a 'disappointing' result.

As the Tory inquest into the local elections continued, former party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith admitted the loss of councillors across England would make the next general election campaign harder.

But he stressed it would be wrong to say the Conservatives could no longer win and prevent Labour's Sir Keir Starmer from entering Downing Street.

The Prime Minister today declined to apologise to the vast swathes of Conservative councillors who lost their seats, but admitted it was a 'disappointing' set of local elections

Simon Clarke, the former levelling up secretary, called on the Government to 'get back to building the homes that people need' as a 'matter of urgency'.

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith admitted the loss of councillors across England would make the next general election campaign harder

Speaking as he volunteered at a Big Help Out event in Hertfordshire today, to mark the final day of the Coronation weekend, Mr Sunak said: 'It's always disappointing to lose hardworking Conservative councillors.'

The PM added: 'I know that people want us to deliver for them on their priorities.

'I know that's not going to happen overnight but we're going to strain every sinew to do exactly that.'

Mr Sunak reiterated his five priorities on the economy, the NHS and the Channel migrant crisis, adding: 'I believe those are the country's priorities, those are my priorities and I'm going to work night and day to deliver on them for everyone.'

It came after Mr Clarke had continued his criticism of the PM for ditching compulsory housebuilding targets in a concession to Tory rebels over the Government's flagship Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.

The ex-Cabinet minister, who served in Liz Truss's brief administration last autumn, blamed both the turmoil in Tory ranks over the past 12 months and current policy for the party's electoral failings.

'In these results there is one theme that stands out above all others for me is that we cannot out-Nimby the Liberal Democrats and the Greens, so one aspect of policy that does need to change and change as a matter of urgency is our housing policy,' Mr Clarke told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

'So we can get back to building the homes that people need, making the case, the moral, economic, political case, for building the homes that a growing population requires rather than, I'm afraid, trying to pander to the public's worst instincts on this question, which isn't working.

'I would say that dropping those targets was a major mistake and I would like those restored.'

In an article for the Telegraph, Sir Iain admitted the Tories suffered a 'bad' result in last week's local elections.

'That is a simple fact that cannot be spun away,' he wrote.

'Not just bad in terms of national numbers, but also bad because these councillors are often the key part of local campaigns for the general elections.

'Their absence will make it more difficult to deliver, particularly in the critical marginal seats.'

But Sir Iain, who led the Tories between 2001 and 2003, said it would be 'wrong' to compare the current situation with 1996 - when Tony Blair's New Labour were on the brink of a landslide win.

'I was campaigning then and I all too clearly remember the mood,' he added.

'Conservative voters were so angry that they didn't engage on the doorstep; they just said it was time for a change. They were openly prepared to vote Labour, not to protest but to bring in a new government.

'This time, I didn't find any great sense that voters want a Labour Government led by Keir Starmer instead.

'In fact, I don't recall him being mentioned once. Instead, they felt high taxes, high Government spending and high immigration meant that there was little difference between the two main parties.

'A number also talked of failing to deliver on Brexit.'

Rishi Sunak saw the Tories lose more than 1,000 councillors and close to 50 councils in an electoral bloodbath on Thursday

Sir Iain said it would be 'utterly wrong to extrapolate from Thursday's result and declare that the Conservatives can't win next year's election'.

'Instead, what it tells us is that the jury is still out,' he continued. 'Keir Starmer's Labour hasn't achieved the cut-through it might have expected. We can still succeed.'

The Liberal Democrats are attempting to add to the pressure on Mr Sunak by tabling a motion of no confidence in his Government in the House of Commons as soon as tomorrow.

The Prime Minister would be highly likely to win if it reached a vote because he commands a large majority.

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey said: 'The local elections showed that the public clearly has no confidence in Sunak or the Conservatives, so it's time for a general election now.

'There's only one reason Rishi Sunak would deny British people a say at the ballot box: because he is running scared and knows he'd lose.'
A second 17-year-old boy was also injured, but his wounds aren't life-threatening

Four masked thugs suspected of stabbing a teenage boy to death in a 'targeted attack' are at the centre of a police hunt.

The victim, 17, is believed to have been stabbed in a narrow alleyway in Kings Court near the main car parks of Easton Street in High Wycombe between 7pm and 7.30pm on Sunday.

A second 17-year-old boy was also injured and taken to hospital but his wounds were not believed to be life-threatening.

Detectives from the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Team are now hunting four suspects who all had their faces covered and were seen running away from the scene.

The murdered teenager has not yet been formally identified and no one has been arrested in connection with the death.

Forensic tents have been set up at the scene of the stabbing in the main car parks of Easton Street

The stabbing is said to have occurred between 7pm and 7.30pm on Sunday in the Easton Street area in High Wycombe

Police and paramedics were called to Easton Street shortly before 7.30pm on Sunday evening but they were unable to save the knifed victim as he was declared dead at the scene.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: 'We have launched a murder investigation after a 17-year-old boy was killed in High Wycombe.

'No arrests have yet been made and there are currently believed to be up to four offenders. Descriptions are limited but all were wearing face coverings.'

Senior investigating officer, Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown, said the stabbing 'appears to be a targeted attack'.

'We are in the very early stages of this investigation and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

'The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30 pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

'It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

'Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.

Thames Valley Police were called at approximately 7.30pm on Sunday following reports of a stabbing in the Easton Street area of the town

A second 17-year-old boy also received injuries and was taken to hospital but his wounds were not believed to be life-threatening

Police are now hunting four suspects who all had their faces covered

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 101 or you can make a report online or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

'This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

'However, I would like to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.'

On Monday, Wycombe MP Steve Baker, who is also a Northern Ireland Office minister, said: 'This is a tragic incident and it's vital we leave space for the police to conduct their inquiries and, for that reason, I don't want to say much about this continuing inquiry.

'But my heart goes out to the young man's family and friends who I do not doubt will feel devastated.

'For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up.'

Detective Superintendent Brown urged anyone with concerns or questions surrounding the large police presence in the area to approach our officers.

He also said anyone with information should call the police on 101. Alternatively, you can make a report online or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

This comes after three people were stabbed to death in separate incidents in east London over a period of less than eight hours on the eve of the coronation.

A 16-year-old was ambushed as he left school and stabbed to death, while murder investigations were also started after the killings of an 18-year-old and a man in his late 20s, the Metropolitan Police said.

In another incident, an 18-year-old man who has been named by police as Ben Moncrieff was killed in Bath, in Somerset, on Saturday.

Officers were called to the Southgate Street area of the city at around 3.30am on Saturday where the victim was found critically injured and died at the scene.

Avon and Somerset Police said three people were arrested the same day, with two released without charge, while a 15-year-old suspect remained in custody after police were granted more time to question him over the incident.
Rishi Sunak chopped parsnips in a village hall kitchen today as the Prime Minister and his wife Akshata Murty joined a Big Help Out event.

In the final part of this weekend's Coronation celebrations, Britons have been encouraged to take up volunteering roles on the extra Bank Holiday.

The Sunaks joined the initiative by helping to prepare fruit and vegetables at a lunch club event in Hertfordshire.

The PM was also shown speaking to an elderly couple as they sat at a table bedecked in Coronation-themed decorations.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf and Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford are also expected to attend Big Help Out events today.

Mr Sunak's visit to Hertfordshire completes a busy weekend of activity for the PM and his wife to mark King Charles's Coronation.

Rishi Sunak chopped parsnips in a village hall kitchen today as the Prime Minister and his wife Akshata Murty joined a Big Help Out event

The Sunaks took part in the Coronation initiative by helping to prepare fruit and vegetables at an event in Hertfordshire

The PM was also shown speaking to an elderly couple as they sat at a table bedecked in Coronation-themed decorations

On Saturday, during the Coronation service at Westminster Abbey, the PM read a Bible passage.

He and Ms Murty then hosted a Coronation Big Lunch in Downing Street yesterday, which was attended by US First Lady Jill Biden, before joining an audience of 20,000 at Windsor Castle for the star-studded Coronation concert.

Mr Sunak has also held a series of meetings over the past few days with world leaders who travelled to London for the Coronation.

Speaking to broadcasters as he volunteered at the lunch club in Hertfordshire, Mr Sunak backed the Metropolitan Police amid criticism over the arrests of protesters during the King's Coronation.

'The police are operationally independent of Government, they'll make these decisions based on what they think is best,' the PM said.

'Actually I'm grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely.

'That was an extraordinary effort by so many people and I'm grateful to them for all their hard work.'

He added: 'No other country in the world could put on such a dazzling spectacle and it was a proud expression of our history, our culture, our tradition and also a reflection of the modern character of our country.

'It was deeply moving to be in the coronation service and incredibly uplifting and it was an experience I think nobody will forget for the rest of their lives.'

Mr Sunak hailed the tens of thousands events taking place today as part of the Big Help Out, which he said would see Britons 'respecting and reflecting His Majesty's long tradition of service'.

'It's community spirit like this that binds out country together,' Mr Sunak added.

The King and Queen will not be appearing publicly today on the day of the Big Help Out, which is billed as a lasting volunteering legacy to mark Charles's crowning.

Other royals will be out and about with the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester visiting the Coptic Orthodox Church in London where young volunteers will be hosting a Coronation street party.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will take part in a puppy class at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Training Centre in Reading.

Mr Sunak hailed the tens of thousands events taking place as part of the Big Help Out, which he said would see Britons 'respecting and reflecting His Majesty's long tradition of service'

Mr Sunak and Ms Murty joined an audience of 20,000 at Windsor Castle for the star-studded Coronation concert last night

The PM and his wife also hosted a Coronation Big Lunch in Downing Street yesterday, which was attended by US First Lady Jill Biden

Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf visited Whitfield Community Larder in Dundee as part of the Big Help Out

The Big Help Out day is organised by The Together Coalition and partners such as The Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and faith groups from across the UK.

It will highlight the positive impact volunteering has on communities and will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves to create a lasting legacy.

The public have been encouraged to take up hundreds of thousands of volunteering roles on the extra Bank Holiday with more than 1,500 charities involved.

An app has been created to allow people to search for volunteering opportunities, ranging from helping the elderly to working with environmental charities and supporting animal welfare.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: 'While wholly supportive of the Big Help Out initiatives taking place right across Britain on Monday May 7, (the King and Queen) will not be attending any events in-person.

'These will instead be attended by other members of the Royal Family.'

Camilla is patron of the Royal Voluntary Service charity and has been patron of the Big Lunch initiative since 2013.
A British teenager has been found dead with head wounds in a forest in Thailand - and police are now searching for his missing girlfriend.

Woramet Ben Taota, 16, went for a motorcycle ride with Yam, also 16, in his hometown of Lampang on Saturday but did not return home.

Local police said they received a report on Sunday morning that Ben had been found dead in a grove in the Ban Than district, with injuries resembling blunt force.

Officers reported that the teenager's phone and cash were missing from his shoulder bag, and suggested he might have been robbed.

They believe he was killed elsewhere and left in the woods as there were no signs of struggle. His partner has not been found as of today.

Woramet Ben Taota, 16, (pictured) went for a motorcycle ride with the girl named Yam, 16, in Lampang province on Sunday evening, but neither of them returned to their homes

Police have started a search for Yam (pictured), who was reportedly with Ben on Saturday

Thai media reported that Ben's body was found by a garbage collector who was at work on Sunday morning.

Police Colonel Sittisak Singtongla, superintendent of the Mae Tha Police, said: 'The station received a notification at 10.15am that a deceased person was found in the undergrowth.'

Investigative teams from Mae Tha Police Station and Lampang provincial investigation team, along with forensics officers, forensic medicine doctors and staff from Tanna Krua Forest Rescue attended the scene.

Thai media reported that the teenager was found with his back against a tree wearing a black long sleeve T-shirt and jeans.

Police said that the body has been taken to hospital for an autopsy.

'We are currently tracking down individuals close to the victim, including his female companion. She is a key figure in this case since she is the last person to see him alive.'

Ben's mother, Ooy Taota, told police that her son had said goodbye to her on Saturday evening and said he was 'going to work with friends' but he did not give any more details to her.

With the news of his death, friends took to Facebook to leave tributes for Taota.

The parents of the missing girl were said to have 'pleaded' with the media to help find their daughter.

Ben was found near a tree in a grove, reportedly by a garbage collector out at work on Sunday

The police said they are not ruling out any motives, attributing the killing to a possible love affair, a personal conflict, or a work dispute.

Police Colonel Sittisak added: 'We have not yet finalised the issue.

'It is still unclear whether it was a robbery, because the phone and cash of the deceased were not found, but we still cannot rule out other issues.'
Two Colorado families are suing their children's school district over allegations that teachers and administrators encouraged their daughters to join an LGBTQ club and keep the activities a 'secret' from them.

America First Policy Institute and Illumine Legal filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against Poudre School District on behalf of Johnathan and Erin Lee and Nick and Linnaea Jurich, whose sixth-grade daughters attended Wellington Middle-High School, according to a copy of the lawsuit obtained by the Daily Caller.

The activities of the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) were not known to the parents and those who headed the club's meetings actively encouraged students to keep talks about polyamory, puberty blockers, transgenderism, gender identity, sexuality, suicide, and name and pronoun changes a secret from their parents.

Teachers also invited substitute teacher Kimberly Chambers, who is the executive director of the Supporting Pride Learning and Social Happenings (SPLASH) organization that 'seeks to educate school aged children on topics of sexuality and gender identity,' to talk at one of the GSA meetings, which Lee's sixth-grade daughter attended, according to the lawsuit.

Chambers reportedly 'told the children that if they are not completely comfortable in their bodies, that means that they are transgender,' while giving a talk to the school club on May 4, 2021.

Pictured: Erin Lee (left) with her daughter (right) and her husband Jonathan (middle). America First Policy Institute and Illumine Legal filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against Poudre School District on behalf of Johnathan and Erin Lee and Nick and Linnaea Jurich, whose sixth-grade daughters attended Wellington Middle-High School, according to a copy of the lawsuit obtained by the Daily Caller

Pictured: Kimberly Chambers, left, poses next to Supporting Pride Learning and Social Happenings (SPLASH) Youth of Northern Colorado members. Teachers invited substitute teacher Chambers, who is the executive director of the SPLASH organization to talk at one of the GSA meetings, which Lee's sixth-grade daughter attended, according to the lawsuit

The teacher also had children discuss what gender and sex they are attracted to and gave students 'LGBTQ paraphernalia such as toys, flags, and other swag' if they 'came out' as transgender.

The teacher told students that there was 'a higher likelihood of suicide by transgender youth,' but the Lee family said their daughter did not even fully understand what suicide was at the time.

Chambers also repeatedly told students it 'might not be safe to tell their parents what happened at the GSA meeting or to talk about transgender issues' and instead suggested they speak with her or other teachers. She offered students her phone number and told them to connect with her on Discord, so they could contact her at any time.

The Lees were excited that their 'shy' daughter was asked to get involved in school activities because she had not been given many opportunities to make friends, but they were alarmed to find out that upon returning home from the meeting she told them she 'would be transitioning, despite never having had any thoughts about transgenderism before the meeting'.

Their daughter has since said that she no longer desires to transition, but endured a 'months-long emotional decline of gender and sexuality confusion that required counseling and included suicidal thoughts,' according to the lawsuit.

Pictured: Wellington Middle-High School. The daughters of Johnathan and Erin Lee and Nick and Linnaea Jurich attended the school

Pictured: Erin Lee. The teacher told students that there was 'a higher likelihood of suicide by transgender youth,' but the Lee family said their daughter did not even fully understand what suicide was at the time

The Jurich family is suing because their daughter was subject to a lot of the same treatment as the Lee's daughter, where students were told by WMS art teacher and staff sponsor of the school-sponsored GSA club, Jenna Riep, 'that if they did not like their bodies, they were most likely not the gender they were "assigned" at birth'.

In addition, Riep 'encouraged secrecy, confidentiality, and suspicion about whether her parents could be trusted with these discussions' and invited the Jurich's daughter to attend a meeting with SPLASH, the organization that Chambers was associated with.

Following the meeting, their daughter 'began to have her first suicidal thoughts' and started leaving notes for her parents about transgenderism and stated she was 'aromantic' and 'asexual'. In the fall of 2021, she started to question her gender identity.

'After her experiences at the GSA club her relations with her friends deteriorated, and she was not comfortable with the idea of potentially taking classes with Riep,' according to the lawsuit.

Their daughter's wellbeing 'underwent a significant decline' to the point to where she asked to be home-schooled.

She eventually attempted to take her own life by drinking bleach and has since 'verbalized that her disturbed emotional state began when she attended GSA at WMS'.
A teenage learner driver has crashed their luxury car through the wall of a school during a driving lesson.

Emergency crews were called to Walford Anglican School for Girls in the Adelaide suburb of Hyde Park about 6.45pm on Sunday and found the Mercedes-Benz wagon lodged in the wall of the school gym.

The 17-year-old driver and his 62-year-old passenger were not injured in the crash.

Firefighters work to dislodge the luxury Mercedes-Benz from the wall of the school gym after a learner driver left the road (pictured)

Pictures from the scene show firefighters trying to free the ML 350 model, which retails for as much as $80,000, from where it was lodged in the wall.

The car was eventually towed from the scene.

Work will now have to be done to patch the substantial hole in the wall.

The driver will be issued with a fine for failing to maintain effective control of his vehicle.
Two women in Texas are countersuing a man who filed a wrongful death suit against them for helping his now-ex-wife obtain an abortion via pill last year.

Jackie Noyola and Amy Carpenter hit back at the $2million suit this week, arguing that Marcus Silva invaded their privacy by going through his spouse's phone without her consent.

They also argue that Silva found the abortion medication and texts before Brittni Silva underwent the procedure and did nothing to stop her.

Noyola and Carpenter's lawyer, Rusty Hardin, told The New York Times: 'Theyre being thrust into the public arena, with their financial well-being at risk ... They believed strongly that they were helping a friend at a time of dire need.'

Silva's suit against the women is the first of its kind after the landmark Supreme Court decision last July that overturned Roe V. Wade, which allowed state abortion bans to go into effect. His suit argues that a self-managed abortion in tantamount to murder under Texas law.

Jackie Noyola (left) dressed in a blue suit. Amy Carpenter (center) dressed in blue. Brittni Silva is to the right of Carpenter dressed in red. The three women allegedly 'celebrated the murder by dressing up in Handmaids Tale costumes for Halloween'

Following the overturning of Roe V. Wade last summer, Texas put into effect one of the strictest abortion laws in the nation

Noyola and Carpenter's countersuit states that Silva was aware that Brittni was making arrangements to get an abortion but did nothing to intervene.

'Rather than talking with [his ex-wife] about what he found or disposing of the pill, Silva took photos of the texts and surreptitiously put the pill back,' reads the suit.

'He wasnt interested in stopping her from terminating a possible pregnancy.

'Instead, he wanted to obtain evidence he could use against her if she refused to stay under his control, which is precisely what he tried to do.'

Several months back, Silva filed suit in Galveston against three women who allegedly helped facilitate his ex-wife's abortion. His suit argues that a self-managed abortion in tantamount to murder under Texas law.

He is suing each of the defendants - including Aracely Garcia - for $1million. None of the women are facing criminal charges.

The lawsuit accuses three women of helping Brittni Silva obtain abortion pills and then convincing her to conceal their 'murderous actions.'

Further complicating the case is provision that, in Texas, it is a crime to provide an abortion to someone else, but not to self-administer one. And the abortion at issue in Silva's case took place before the state's six-week abortion ban went into effect.

Silva's attorney, Jonathan Mitchell, a former Texas solicitor general, has advocated for the tactic of using private lawsuits to deter abortions.

He was responsible for the bulk of the 2021 Texas law that led clinics in the Lone Star state to stop providing abortion after six weeks, by empowering citizens to sue for cash judgements of up to $10,000 per procedure.

The original suit cites a text exchange between the women and Silva's ex-wife about Aid Access - an organization which send abortion pills through the mail.

According to the filing, the women said getting pills in the mail might be 'murky' and instead opted to find them in Houston - two of the friends offering their homes for the abortion.

It also alleged that on Halloween of 2022, Noyola, Carpenter, and Brittni 'celebrated the murder by dressing up in Handmaids Tale costumes for Halloween.'

Marcus Silva is being represented by Jonathan Mitchell, the attorney who in large part authored the 2021 Texas law that allows citizens to sue individuals for up to $10,000 if they are believed to have taken part in an illegal abortion

Marcus Silva filed suit against Noyola, Carpenter and Garcia back in March

The countersuit includes screenshots of the text exchanges that also show the ex-wife worrying about Silva's response to the abortion.

'I know either way he will use it against me,' she wrote, adding that he might use it as a reason to stay together or 'to act like he has some right to the decision.'

Brittni Silva claimed her now-ex had a history of emotionally abusive behavior, including burning the couple's wedding photos and threatening the family dog. Ms. Silva once told her friends that she called the police because he was harassing her.

The women also expressed concern about Silva in the text messages.

'I just worry about your emotional state, and he'll be able to snake his way into your head,' one said.

'Delete all conversations from today,' another wrote. 'You don't want him looking through it.'

The filing also includes a police report he filed in which he admitted to going through his wife's phone, which is a clear violation of Texas law. Additionally, there appear to be screenshots of a police report Silva allegedly made to the League City Police Department on July 17 of last year, claiming he found a pill labeled MF in his ex-wife's purse nearly a week prior.

He identified the pill as mifepristone, a common abortion-inducing medication. Silva did not confront his ex-wife for two weeks following his discovery, during which time she took the medication.

Silva, who divorced his wife in February 2022 and has two other children with her, is not pursuing legal action against her.
Texas mall shooter Mauricio Garcia, 33, was a security guard who was removed from the Army in 2008 over mental health concerns, it has been revealed.

Garcia, neo-Nazi who was living in a Budget Inn in Texas, killed eight people and injured five others outside the H&M store at Allen Premium Outlets in Texas on Saturday afternoon.

A police officer who was at the scene responding to another call shot Garcia dead when he heard the shots.

While his motive remains unconfirmed, law enforcement sources say social media pages show he had neo-Nazi interests.

One profile on the site OK.RU that is believed to belong to the gunman contains posts about white nationalism and tattoos.

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

His gray car is seen parked outside his family home in Dallas before the shooting

Dashcam footage showed the moment a gunman opened fire and killed multiple civilians - as cops are reportedly on the hunt for a second gunman believed to have aided in the assault

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

Aishwarya Thatikonda and Christian LaCour both died in the shooting yesterday

He also served in the military in 2008 but was removed over mental health concerns.

Neighbors say they believe Garcia was working as a security guard but it's unclear if he held a job in the mall or at another store.

CNN reports that he had a license to work as a security guard in Texas between 2016 and 2020, but that the license expired.

According to the Washington Post, a patch the gunman was wearing on his chest alluded to his extremist ideologies - although no formal motive has been released.

The patch read 'RWDS' which is an acronym for 'Right Wing Death Squads.'

An Army spokesman tells DailyMail.com he was enlisted for three months in 2008, but was removed before he was ever deployed.

'Mauricio Garcia entered the regular Army in June 2008; he was terminated three months later without completing initial entry training. He was not awarded a military occupational specialty. He had no deployments or awards,' the spokesman said.

This comes after new audio revealed how the heroic officer made a frantic phone call begging for his colleagues to join him on the scene, radioing: 'I need everybody I got.'

Survivors have also recalled being saved by a hero shop worker who locked them in a bathroom closet before being killed themselves.

She began her impromptu shopping trip by pulling up to the same H&M store where Garcia would arrive in his own car moments later and open fire. Lee said it 'sounded like a warzone' as frantic shoppers started fleeing from the hail of bullets.

In the chaos that ensued, the unnamed store associate gathered a frantic Lee and 12 others, including several children, and hid them inside the store's bathroom closet.

The worker then left the group, and Lee hours later was escorted out by police.

The shooting happened at the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, a small suburb north of Dallas, and saw at least eight people killed. At least one of those slain was a child, though thanks to the unnamed H&M workers efforts, several other youngsters were saved

Appearing for a video interview Sunday, mom-of-two Racquel Lee described how the shooting Saturday interrupted her impromptu shopping trip, and how she and 12 others were rescued by a store worker who selflessly hid them in a closet during the gunman's rampage

Mauricio Garcia, the shooter, died at the scene. He was shot dead by a cop - but he had already let off bullets and killed eight people himself

On her way out, Lee recalled realizing that among the mass of 'bullets and bodies' outside, was the same store worker that hid her barely an hour before.

The officer bravely ran towards the active shooter - who was armed with 60 rounds and had shot more than a dozen people by this point - and killed him.

About two minutes after first calling for backup, the cop said: 'I got him down.' Minutes later, another voice is heard on the radio saying: 'We got victims. I need an ambulance.'

The FBI and police raided dead Garcia's Dallas home just one hour after the massacre and requested a translator to speak with his family.

Neighbors say they often saw Garcia wearing a security guard-type uniform, but he was 'very quiet' and had 'very unusual behavior.'

His gray Dodge Charger, which was seen at the scene, was often parked outside the home.

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

Mall employees embrace as they greet each other the day after a shooting at Allen Premium Outlets on May 7, 2023 in Allen, Texas

Nasir Willis and Hannah McAbee from Denton come out to the mall to reflect as Nasir has a cousin who was here during the shooting

Dashcam video showed gunman Mauricio Garcia getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

Garcia was using an AR-15-style gun during the mass shooting, and was dressed in full tactical SWAT gear.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd confirmed that seven people died at the scene, including the gunman, and then a further two victims died in hospital.

Three of the wounded were in critical condition in the evening, and four were stable, Boyd said in an update on Saturday night.

A Dallas-area medical group said it was treating victims as young as five-years-old.

Investigators confirmed they believe shooter Garcia was working alone, but they have not yet released any motive for the killings.

Fontayne Payton, 35, was at H&M when he heard the sound of gunshots through his headphones. He said: 'It was so loud, it sounded like it was right outside.

'I pray it wasn't kids, but it looked like kids,' he said.

The bodies were covered in white towels, slumped over bags on the ground. 'It broke me when I walked out to see that.'

The front entrance of a home connected to suspected mall gunman, Mauricio Garcia

Police and FBI searching the house on Saturday night

Glass is seen shattered across the sidewalk in front of one of the fashion stores in Allen, where the mass shooting took place just after 3pm on Saturday, May 6

Payton then saw the body of the dead shooter - which was the only one not covered, he recalled.

Another witness, Kimberly Blakey, said she and her daughter, 14, were among the crowd of people rushing to flee the parking lot after the gunfire started.

She said the raining bullets were 'non-stop.' Her car got shot at during the ordeal as she tried to escape.

Blakey told CNN: 'I told my daughter to get down. I could hear her start praying.'

Another witness, Sheliza Ramlall, who was in the Nike store when the violence broke out, said: 'I had the most horrifying experience earlier. I was standing in line at the Nike store when all of a sudden people started to scream and run.

'The people in the doorway saw the man with the gun outside and raised the alarm. All of us in line dropped to the floor and started to crawl looking for a hiding place while falling over each other.

'I crawled behind the counter. At that moment, I realized that we were right in plain sight and and figured that I needed to get away from the front.

MacKenzie Bates embraces her mother Rochelle where flowers were left at the scene of the shooting

Residents return in an effort to retrieve their vehicles at the scene

'As I looked to the back of the store, I heard someone saying get to the back, get to the back and everyone started running at that point. An employee opened the back door and let us out. We are standing by the roadside shaken, crying, and hugging each other.

'Not knowing where the gunman was or what was happening on the other side was terrifying but I wanted to get out of there so I left the crowd and started to flag the cars down to give me a lift.

'An elderly woman stopped and I hopped in a panic. She started to tell me about the gunshots she heard and drove me to my car. I raced out of there with an elevated heartbeat.

'I am grateful for our brave first responders who stopped the shooter and helped the people to safety.'
A woman has discovered she's pregnant just hours after her husband was killed when one of their sons climbed into his truck, pulled a faulty gear shift and ran him over.

Jonathan Rodriguez, 23, died from his injuries when the vehicle rolled on top of him as he was cleaning the yard at their home on May 6 in Santaquin, Utah.

Police said their son climbed into the vehicle and pulled on the gear shift, causing the truck to bolt down a slope and hit the dad and grandmother, Sonia.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, father-of-two Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother was airlifted to hospital, where she is still being treated for serious injuries.

Just one day after his death, Jonathan's wife, Daisy Rodriguez, was rushed to the hospital too - where she found out she was pregnant with what will be their third child.

Jonathan Rodriguez (left) died during the accident at their home in Utah. His wife Daisy Rodriguez (right) found out one day later that she is expecting their third child. Jonathan and Daisy's two sons, aged 3 and 5, are pictured in between their parents

Daisy Rodriguez (pictured), Jonathan's wife, was rushed to the hospital one day later- where she found out she was pregnant with what will be their third child. The couple already share two sons, age 3 and 5

The family described the miracle as Jonathan's 'final gift' to his beloved wife.

The couple - who were each other's high school sweethearts - didn't know they were expecting another baby when the tragedy happened. They already have two sons, aged 3 and 5.

Jonathan has been remembered by his family as someone who 'loved his wife tremendously.'

His sister-in-law Sara Munoz continued: 'Together they raised two young boys who loved their father. He was their role model and best friend.

'Jonathan loved his family and always put them first before anything else.'

Writing on a GoFundMe page, she explained: 'On May 6th 2023 a devastating accident occurred in the home of my sister Daisy Rodriguez.

'My sister along with her husband and his family were fixing up their backyard, when tragedy struck. While working on the yard, a truck that was parked next to the house rolled backwards towards the yard.

Jonathan has been remembered by his family as someone who 'loved his wife tremendously'

Daisy is pictured with their two sons. She is now expecting their third child

Devastated family members wrote: 'Jonathan was 23 years young with a full life of dreams and goals ahead of him. Those that knew Jonathan know that he was a great husband and an amazing father to his two boys'

'My sister's husband Jonathan Rodriguez along side his mother Sonia Rodriguez tried to stop the vehicle from continuing to roll down the yard that sits on a slope.

'But unfortunately their efforts cost them to be crushed by the truck. Paramedics arrived and tried to resuscitate Jonathan, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

'His mother Sonia was life flighted to the hospital due to her extensive injuries and is currently awaiting multiple surgeries.

'Jonathan was 23 years young with a full life of dreams and goals ahead of him. Those that knew Jonathan know that he was a great husband and an amazing father to his two boys.

'He worked hard to provide his family the beautiful life they had. His life was drastically cut short leaving behind his wife and his kids ages 3,5.

'His own family has also suffered the loss of a son and a brother while awaiting news of his mother.'

In an update on May 7, Sara wrote on GoFundMe: 'My sister was admitted to E.R. last night due to some complications.

'After running some tests, She was told she is currently pregnant. Jonathans last gift to sister and they didnt even know it.'
Senator Jacqui Lambie has hit back with a shock response to an ABC audience questioner who said the Union Jack represents 'genocide and terrorism'.

Irishman Richard Ryan asked the Q+A program panel on Monday for their 'thoughts on the Union Jack on the Australian flag' as debate rages over whether Australia should become a republic and abandon the UK Monarchy.

Mr Ryan then called it 'a symbol of terrorism (and) genocide to the original owners of this land?'

Ms Lambie, who served in the Australian Army, surprised host Stan Grant and much of the audience with her fiery response, calling not just for a new flag, but an Australian republic.

'The flag would have a lot more meaning if we put it out there so it doesn't just include First Nations people, it doesn't just include any white people, but also any migrants that have come to this country over God knows how many years,' she said.

Irishman Richard Ryan (pictured centre) asked the Q+A program panel for their 'thoughts on the Union Jack on the Australian flag'

'The only way to do this and to teach people about our history is to throw it out there to those kids, 16 years and under, get them to design the flag and explain to them why we need to change the flag.'

The Tasmanian Senator said getting children to design a new Australian flag would mean 'they'll get an education about the frontier wars'.

'They'll get an education about how great this country's come with migrants and how we've all come together, and I think there's only one way to do that and that is creating a brand new flag,' she said.

Ms Lambie argued this would 'give the youth, who are going to become the leaders of this country, a chance to draw up their own future by doing a flag'.

She was on a roll by then and raised her voice to add that 'The other thing is when it comes to a republic, we're all grown-ups here in Australia and it's about time we stood on our on two feet and don't need a king and queen to do that.

'We can actually do it all by ourselves. Bring on a republic, bring on a new flag,' she shouted to laughter and applause from the audience.

Mr Ryan described the Australian flag (pictured) as 'a symbol of terrorism (and) genocide'

Jacqui Lambie called for the Australian flag (pictured) to be redesigned by children

What does 'terra nullius' mean? Terra nullius is a Latin phrase meaning 'land belonging to no one'. It is used to explain how Australia was founded by British settlers who justified doing so by declaring the land to be 'terra nullius'. This was interpreted as a complete absence of 'civilised' people capable of land ownership. Source: Australian Museum Advertisement

The senator, who is part Aboriginal on her mother's side, did not address the question of the Union Jack representing 'terrorism (and) genocide', but another panelist, Nova Peris, did.

The former Labor senator, Olympian and prominent republican said 'Yeah. When you think of the Union Jack, it was planted here in Botany Bay and marked the notion of 'terra nullius' ('nobody's land') ...

'(On the Australian flag) We have the Union Jack here and the Southern Cross over there. For myself as a First Nations person, when you look at flags, flags are symbolic, they're about representation,' she said.

Ms Peris then explained what the Aboriginal flag means.

'The black is symbolic for us as people, the yellow is a giver of life and the red is Mother Earth.

'When you look at the Australian flag, it's got another country's flag in our flag ... I understand the history with it being flown when our soldiers went to war and fought for our freedom that we have.

'But it's also a hurtful one for us as First Nations people, because it symbolises the terra nullius.'

Another panelist, WA Liberal Party state president Caroline Di Russo, defended the flag and its meaning to her Italian migrant heritage.

'For my family in particular ... the Australian flag is one of those things that is synonymous for them in Australia, so I personally like the flag.'

She called for a 'mature conversation' on the flag and acknowledged that society's view evolves over time.

'Australia has already changed a huge amount, even in just the post-war period,' Ms Russo said.

'So if it's something that other people want to have that conversation, have the conversation and we'll find out sooner or rather where we land on that.'

There was a mixed response on the ABC's Twitter page to the Q+A questioner calling the Union Jack 'a symbol of terrorism (and) genocide'.

'It's a symbol to be proud of!,' one man wrote, with another agreeing with him, saying 'Of course this is the question from the ABC to their hard left audience.

'We don't deserve your hatred.'

Senator Lambie (pictured on ABC's Q+A program) also called for Australia to become a republic

But others took the questioner's side, with one saying simply, 'Get rid of it.'

Another had a suggestion for how the Australian flag could be tweaked. 'Just get rid of the union Jack, change the southern cross to green and gold,' they said.

One commenter used folksy symbolism to explain their view.

'I love the Australian flag. I have always thought it was great flag for Australia.

'When I see it it reminds me of the night sky, as if I'm laying in my swag looking into the sky.'
It comes after New Jersey lawmakers asked for an up to 60 day half on construction of wind farms being built off the coast last week

A 25-foot long Minke has been pictured dead on a sandbar near Westhampton, New York, as concerns grow a spate of recent deaths involving the mammals may be linked to offshore wind farms.

The large animal was captured floating in shallow waters near the Suffolk County town on Saturday, in the Moriches Inlet.

According to an eye witness, a whale rescue group attached satellite equipment to it in case it floats away.

It is the latest in a large number of whale deaths along the east coast of the United States. Huge offshore wind turbines are currently under construction off the New Jersey coast, and others are planned for New York, sparking concerns they may be interfering with the animals' sonar.

The large animal was captured floating in shallow waters in the Moriches Inlet

It is the latest in a large number of whale deaths along the east coast of the United States

Since December, at least 32 whales of different species have been found dead on east coast beaches from Massachusetts down to Florida, a large number of which were found along the Jersey shore.

Environmental groups have been adamant that the number of deaths is linked directly to the construction of offshore wind farms.

In January, the Clean Ocean Action environmental group asked President Joe Biden to step in and halt the wind farm projects, saying there was evidence it was related to the whale deaths.

Clean Ocean Action executive director Cindy Zipf said: 'We've gone too far, too fast.

'Over 2.2 million acres is being allocated to offshore wind and 10,000 miles of cables.

Pictured: The areas on the Outer Continental Shelf in the New York area that are being used for wind farms

'We became alarmed that it was plausible that activity going on offshore had to do with the whale die-offs. We felt there was a reason for investigation.'

Last week, four New Jersey Republicans opposed to the state's offshore wind turbines asked that construction be halted for up to sixty days to see if it would reduce the number of deaths.

New Jersey has been rapidly clearing way for the development of new wind farm projects of its coasts, with large-scale construction already underway at several sites.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) - have been adamant there is no evidence the farms are causing the deaths.

Federal lawmakers like New Jersey Democratic Senator Cory Booker have requested deeper investigations into what might be causing the deaths.

Republican New Jersey Senator Michael Testa said halting construction on the wind farms was an easy way to test the theory.

He told CBS News: 'One thing our side of the aisle gets accused of is not following the science. So what is the harm of waiting 30 or 60 days?'

Currently, New York has five offshore wind projects in active development which will cover 480,000 acres.

Skeptics of the wind farm theory have said climate change is the greatest threat to the lives of marine life on the east coast.

U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone Jr, of New Jersey, said in a statement: 'The food source whales depend on is moving closer to the busy shipping lanes near the Port of New York and New Jersey as ocean temperatures rise, leaving them vulnerable to vessel strikes and entanglements.'
Prince Louis stole the show again today as he got behind the controls of a JCB digger, chowed down on toasted marshmallows and took a very enthusiastic shot at archery during a jam-packed day of volunteering.

The young royal joined his big brother and sister - Prince George and Princess Charlotte - in helping renovate a Scout hut in Slough as part of 'The Big Help Out' to mark the final day of King Charles' Coronation.

He appeared full of energy after being sorely missed at the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle last night, which he was forced to sit out on as it took place past his bedtime.

Videos of Louis' volunteering efforts have seen an outpouring of affection from royal fans online, as they branded him an 'entertainer', a 'little legend' and their 'favourite royal.'

When the Prince of Wales took control of a digger this morning, Louis sat in his father's lap as William moved the mechanical arm and grabbed a bucket full of soil before dumping it on a spoil heap.

Later the five-year-old prince was given the task of filling a wheelbarrow with what looked like builders' sand and he focused on the job, diligently shovelling the material before wheeling the barrow himself.

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but he got down to business and was operating a mini JCB on his father's lap.

Prince Louis tries his hand at archery while taking part in the Big Help Out

Prince Louis tucks into some marshmallows during a day of volunteering on Monday

Louis also tried his hand at interior decorating, making hand prints on a wall under the direction of his mother Kate the Princess of Wales.

The event was another milestone for Louis, who has made a number of official public appearances including attending the Christmas Day service at Sandringham with his parents and siblings.

The young royals got a reward for their hard work on Monday, toasting marshmallows over a barbecue before trying their hand at archery.

One video shows Louis eating a marshmallow before throwing the stick it was attached to into a fire. In another clip he is seen covering his eyes with his forearm due to the smoke coming from the flames.

He is then given a 's'more' - a marshmallow squashed between two crackers or biscuits - by a fellow volunteer.

But as he goes to take a bit Kate steps in to ask him: 'What do you say?', before he thanks the woman and eagerly tucks in.

The youngest of the Wales family is then seen giving archery a try, rapidly firing plastic arrows towards a target sheet while baring his teeth.

The videos of Louis have gone viral online, with one fan declaring: 'He is my favourite royal!'

Prince Louis of Wales enjoys a toasted marshmallow as he takes part in the Big Help Out

Louis is given a 's'more' - a marshmallow squashed between two crackers - by a fellow volunteer.

Prince Louis takes control of a wheelbarrow as he helps his mother, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales take part in the Big Help Out in Slough. Louis also helped fill the barrow

Louis and William were helping create a new path and new beds for a Slough scout hut

Kate was seen speaking to a person in the crowd and said Charlotte was in year 3 at school

Prince Louis, five, happily got stuck into some shovelling at a Scouts headquarters in Slough this morning

'I'm very much enjoying all the videos of Prince Louis,' wrote one, while another added: 'Prince Louis is such a character!'

Another said: 'I'm sure he's a handful but there's something so loveable and appealing about Prince Louis.'

Responding to a clip of Louis clamoring for a marshmallow s'more, another wrote: 'Prince Louis is a foodie and I predict hes going to be a chef and run the coolest restaurant in Windsor.'

George, meanwhile, was allowed to use a drill and concentrated as he worked making a hole in a piece of wood.

Charlotte was also spotted painting what appeared to be doors.

Across the country people have been encouraged to devote some free time on the Monday of the coronation bank holiday weekend for the Big Help Out, aimed at showcasing volunteering.

Louis and his paint-covered hand, ready to put on a wall

And it was a thumbs up from Kate who had her little helper Louis with her, holding his hand tightly

Louis also used a spade to move sand with his mum

The Big Help Out is known to be a passion project for the Princess of Wales

The event was a change from Sunday night's star-studded coronation concert, where George and Charlotte waved Union flags, sang and sported glowing wristbands during the Windsor Castle event that featured global stars including Lionel Richie, Katie Perry and a host of celebrities from film, TV and theatre.

William and Kate looked relaxed after their late night, which ended with them hosting an after-show reception for some of those involved in the show and which was attended by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and their daughter Lady Louise.

The duke paid a moving tribute to the King during the concert, telling his father: 'Pa, we are all so proud of you.'

Louis, the fourth-in-line to the throne, attended his grandfather's coronation ceremony on Saturday at Westminster Abbey, where he stole the show yet again.

He disappeared from the two-hour ceremony for a while, with fans wondering where he had gone and whether he had been told off.

The mischievous royal made a whole host of funny hilarious facial expressions from the balcony on Saturday - including his signature yelling face during the flypast

Prince Louis offered a double handed wave to the crowds of royal fans who gathered outside Buckingham Palace on the Coronation day

Keeping you up? The Prince and the Princess of Wales's youngest son Louis (right) at Westminster Abbey on May 6

However, it was always the plan that the youngster would retire for some parts of the ceremony, which would have been a long time to sit still for the five-year-old.

Louis reappeared to sing the National Anthem at the ceremony, before leaving the Abbey to make an appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

Photos from inside the carriage after the ceremony saw Louis, five, peering out of the window - with some people taking to Twitter to say his style was echoing that of a James Bond villain.

The mischievous royal made a whole host of funny hilarious facial expressions from the balcony - including his signature yelling face during the flypast.

But it seems that Louis' antics also tired out his sister, Princess Charlotte, as the Princess of Wales said the eight-year-old was 'tired' after making sure her little brother, Louis, five, behaved himself during the Coronation service.
A massive air conditioning system has collapsed into a swimming pool at a resort in Colorado, leaving six people hurt and two with life-threatening injuries.

The huge piece of mechanical equipment crashed into the indoor pool at the Gaylord Rockies resort in Aurora at 9.50am on Saturday morning.

There were 50 to 100 people in the pool area at the time, according to Aurora Fire Department.

Shocking video footage taken at the scene shows the devastation caused by the fallen equipment, with filthy brown water spraying from an open pipe and injured guests at the side of the pool.

Eight firefighters from a nearby station were already at the hotel doing training, and all six injured patients were transported to local hospitals.

Video from the horror collapse shows the large metal duct which crashed to the floor

Jamie and Canon Olson described helping injured guests following the shocking incident

DailyMail.com reached out to the Aurora Fire Department for an update on those injured.

Jamie Olson and her son Canon were at the pool when it happened, and he moved away from the area just before the horror collapse.

Olson told FOX 31 how herself and her son helped a young girl who had terrible wounds.

'It was a devastating experience. Canon was grabbing towels and the staff was doing the best they could to,' Olson said.

'We had to help this little girl and we all worked together to make sure she was stable until paramedics arrived.'

The girl was not immediately identified and her condition was not known Monday.

Olson said how lucky she felt that her son was able to escape unscathed.

'That section of the pipe was right where he was sitting. The poor sweet girl who got injured, he was right next to her.'

She said that in the aftermath of the incident, the hot tub 'looked like it was filling with black', making it difficult to tell if anyone was still trapped inside.

The huge metal air conditioning structure collapsed across the pool and the hot tub

12-year-old Trevor Spykerman told CBS News Colorado that the collapse felt like it was happening in 'slow motion.'

He said: 'When I saw all of it come down, most of it took like, five seconds to come down, and it brought all the other pipes down as well.

'It smelled like oil... I thought maybe the roof would collapse soon and I thought maybe because of the oil smell, maybe something might catch on fire.'

Spykerman hurt his feet evacuating the pool due to the debris but was otherwise uninjured.

Jamie Olson described how her son narrowly escaped being in the affected area

The fire department said there would be a thorough investigation carried out by the hotel

Another survivor, Kolby Huseman, told the outlet how he was playing in the pool with with his 5-year-old son Levi when they heard the pipes above them start to make a noise.

The family, from Houston, were at the hotel on vacation.

He says he looked up to see the large metal ducts come crashing down onto them.

'I grabbed my son and kind of just, tucked him under me,' he said, and a part of the duct fell directly on his back, causing scratches from his shoulders to his waist and bruising all over his back.

'Right after it happened, it was kind of like a war zone - a lot of parents screaming for their kids,' he added.

Huseman did not go to hospital and said he would get checked out when he got home. His son was uninjured other than a scraped knee.

Eight firefighters from a nearby station were already at the Gaylord Rockies doing training

The horror incident happened at the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center

The collapse of the huge metal structure injured six people, with two seriously hurt

It is not yet known what might have caused the collapse.

The Aurora City Mayor and city council said in a statement that it expected a 'thorough investigation', which would be up to the hotel to conduct.

'Our immediate focus is the wellbeing of those involved, and we thank our first responders for their quick response and care,' the statement said.

The hotel, which is a Marriott Bonvoy property, opened in 2018.

The hotel said in a statement: 'We are devastated by this traumatic incident. On Saturday, our top priorities were to support emergency responders and render assistance to those directly impacted, and were very grateful to the Aurora Fire Department for their swift actions.

'Moving forward, we are focused on helping our affected guests and associates, and we are working with the appropriate experts to conduct a thorough investigation.'
A man with a lengthy criminal history lost control of his Range Rover after running a red light and slammed into a crowd at a Texas bus stop, killing eight people, police said.

Now, he has been charged with eight counts of manslaughter in the crash that also saw 10 other people hurt.

On Monday, Brownsville police identified George Alvarez, 35, as the driver from the horrific Sunday crash outside a migrant and homeless shelter in the border town.

Alvarez's bail was set at more than $3million on the charges as he faces 10 additional aggravated assault charges. Though, he has been charged with more than 20 crimes in his life. Some of previous charges include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, assault against the elderly, possession of marijuana and DUI.

A witness to Sunday's crash said he saw Alvarez speed up to roughly 60mph before slamming into the crowd. The witness, identified as Luis, recalled a woman in a white car passing by and telling them to move as the gray Range Rover trailed behind her.

'Another car behind her came toward us at full speed, yelling profanities at us and ran us over,' the witness told CBS News.

The car flipped on its side and the driver tried to flee as brave witnesses rushed to detain him until police arrived. Police said.

Brownsville police identified George Alvarez, 35, as the driver from the horrific Sunday crash outside a migrant and homeless shelter in the border town

Above is Range Rover that struck a group of people who were at a bus stop outside the homeless center for migrants. Luis recalled a woman in a white car passing by tell them to move as the gray Range Rover trailed behind her

Lieutenant Martin Sandoval said at a Monday press conference that Alvarez wasn't cooperating with officers and was refusing to speak.

The suspect refused to give police his name and providing them with several false identities.

'It's not simply just combative. He is just saying "No, I am not going to do this," and he will tense up and so it kind of makes it harder for the detention officers to do their jobs, but we are talking to him,' Sandoval said.

Sandoval said Alvarez was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained when the car rolled over.

Alvarez does not appear on the Cameron County online jail roster and it was not immediately clear if he remains in the hospital. Brownsville police did not respond in time for this report.

Police retrieved a blood sample and sent it to a Texas Department of Public Safety lab to test for intoxicants.

At Monday's press conference, police detailed Alvarez's lengthy criminal history. Previously he's been charged with:

two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon

one count of assault against the elderly or disabled

four counts of assault causing bodily injury to a family member

one count of assault on a public servant

two counts of burglary of a vehicle

one count of assault causing bodily injury

two counts of criminal mischief

one count of driving while intoxicated

one count evading arrest detention

one count interference with public duties

one count obstruction or retaliation

one count of possession of marijuana less than two ounces

three counts of resisting arrest during search or transport

one count of theft of property between $50 and $500

George Alvarez, 34, appeared in court on Monday for his arraignment. He was charged with eight counts of manslaughter

Police said Alvarez has been 'uncooperative' with investigators, cops said Sunday as the continue to investigate

He was found without an identification card and had given police several false identities

A witness at the Texas bus stop where eight people died Sunday when a speeding car plowed into them claimed the crash was intentional. Luis (above) recalled standing with a group of people outside the Ozanam Center when the driver shouted profanities and sped toward them

"A car...came toward us at full speed, yelling profanities at us"



A man who was at the bus stop near a migrant shelter in Brownsville, TX when a driver ran over & killed multiple people tells KVEO-TV the driver saw the group, then sped up.



The latest at 11 on @cbsnewyork pic.twitter.com/lWWEgZPjC4  Tim McNicholas (@TimMcNicholas) May 8, 2023

A majority of the victims were identified as Venezuelan men waiting for a bus to return from Downtown. Several of them stayed overnight at the migrant shelter, according to the Associated Press.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said over the past two weeks he has seen an influx of Venezuelan migrants.

As of Thursday, about 4,000 migrants in Texas' Rio Grande Valley border control custody were from Venezuela.

Maldonado said the center had not received any threats before the crash, but did afterward.

'I've had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us,' Maldonado said.

The Ozanam center is a homeless shelter that serves individuals and families in the area - and because it sits right on the US-Mexico border, many of its clients are migrants

Police put up evidence markers around the clothes and accessories strewn across the street

The intersection remained closed off in the aftermath as authorities, in partnership with the FBI and Border Patrol, investigated the crash

Brownsville has long been an epicenter for migration across the U.S.-Mexico border, and it has become a key location of interest for this week's end to pandemic-era border restrictions known as Title 42.

The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in the city and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody.

The shelter can hold 250 people, but many who arrive leave the same day. In the last several weeks, an uptick in border crossings prompted the city to declare an emergency as local, state and federal resources coordinated enforcement and humanitarian response.

'In the last two months, we've been getting 250 to 380 a day,' Maldonado said.

About 2,500 migrants have crossed through the river daily into Brownsville in the past few days, Pedro Cardenas, a city commissioner, said.

He said the Border Patrol is aware of the city's capacity of 1,000 at their processing area near the crossing point and a downtown building where city employees and volunteers guide migrants on how to purchase bus or plane tickets to their final destinations.

The city is considering expanding services to accommodate needs in the coming days, Cardenas said.

While 80 percent of people released from federal custody leave the same day, the city's emergency management official said, a bottleneck has formed over the past few days.

'Most of the people coming across dont want to stay in Brownsville, but we dont have enough buses for them to buy their ticket to leave,' Cardenas said. 'Some are waiting for family members.'
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Shocking new images show Portland's mounting homeless crisis as encampments take over streets and sidewalks - and fed-up residents want the city to take action.

Local authorities in Oregon are also considering calling in the National Guard to help with Portland's homeless issue - while residents reveal they now no longer walk in certain areas because of the drug and encampment problem.

The Health and Human Services and Public Safety Committee met last month for an emergency meeting to deal with the crisis - with more than 5,000 estimated homeless people in the city. According to WGME, city leaders say there are more than 100 tents in the city.

This follows news that Democrat lawmakers in Oregon want to decriminalize homeless camps with a law that would allow the people who live in them to sue for $1,000 if they're harassed or told to leave.

The hugely-controversial bill claims 'decriminalization of rest' would allow city leaders to 'redirect' cash from law enforcement into measures that 'address the root causes of homelessness and poverty'.

Speaking to DailyMail.com about the bill, one resident said: 'I think there's got to be better ways to do that. I've already signed something saying I'm against it. I don't think it's a great idea.'

Camps made by homeless people are seen scattered on the sidewalk in Portland, Oregon

Local authorities in Oregon are also considering calling in the National Guard to help with Portland's homeless issue - while residents reveal they now no longer walk in certain areas because of the drug and encampment problem

A local Portland resident said: 'I would personally prefer to not see drug deals to happen in the middle of the day, in the middle of the street'

The homeless crisis in Portland has exploded over recent years, and locals do not believe enough is being done to combat it

A series of tents are seen lining the sidewalk near the road

Oregon democrats have introduced a bill that would decriminalize homeless encampments allowing the unhoused unlimited access to public spaces without fear of harassment

And when asked about how the city has responded to the growing crisis, one said: 'It feels like Portland has a mixture of different people wanting different things.

'I would personally prefer to not see drug deals to happen in the middle of the day, in the middle of the street.

'If you feel like you can get away with that, what else do you think you can get away with. It feels like this is a band aid.'

Another local resident living in Portland said: 'Generally among the people in Portland the feeling is that they're disappointed in the city, and where things are heading.

'The crisis with homelessness is a super complicated issue, but I don't think its letting people pitch tents wherever they want. It attracts a different tone to parts of the city that used to be really beautiful.

'I saw two people on the street the other day just smoking crack. The problem is growing. Every time I turn a corner there is another homeless camp somewhere, and I don't want that to be the case. There are certain places I won't walk.'

The new homelessness bill has been met with furious complaints from citizens

Oregon's metropolitan areas have been ravaged by progressive policies that have cut police budgets while crime and drug use has spiraled out of control, according to locals

Residents have become more and more worried about the growing crisis in the city

Rep. Margaret Craven said: 'A shelter will keep people safe temporarily. But then they need permanent housing.'

Julia Brim-Edwards, who is running for Multnomah County Commissioner in District Three in Portland, said: 'The county needs to take immediate effective action and the fact that we have thousands of people living on the streets without basic services, without a path to shelter or to permanent supportive housing is completely unacceptable and its a humanitarian crisis.

'Its heartbreaking for the individuals who are in that situation and also for the neighborhoods and the community in which theyre living.

'As a county commissioner, Im really going to push for more immediate, urgent action to end street camping, help move those individuals into shelters where theyre safe, they get stabilized and get on a path to permanent supportive housing.'

The radical decriminalizing proposal comes amid an explosion in camps in cities such as Portland, which has one of the worst crime rates in America, causing some people to move.

The new homelessness bill has been met with furious complaints from citizens who claim Oregon's metropolitan areas have been ravaged by progressive policies that have cut police budgets while crime and drug use has spiraled out of control.

The bill, HB 3501, was sponsored by Democrat representative Farrah Chaichi and her colleague representative Khanh Pham. It will be discussed at a hearing of the state's House Committee On Housing and Homelessness on May 4.

Another local resident living in Portland said: 'Generally among the people in Portland the feeling is that they're disappointed in the city, and where things are heading'

A encampment is set up near the canal

Makeshift homes have been build on the sides of canals in Portland

In March, DailyMail.com reported how some Portland residents think the city has become lawless and 'post-apocalyptic' because of rising rates of homelessness and drug abuse

Police pat sown a woman in Portland, Oregon

A homeless person sleeping on the streets in Portland

Homeless people pitch tents in the city center, in full view of luxury housing estates

'Many persons in Oregon have experienced homelessness as a result of economic hardship, a shortage of safe and affordable housing, the inability to obtain gainful employment and a disintegrating social safety net system,' the bill states.

'Decriminalization of rest allows local governments to redirect resources from local law enforcement activities to activities that address the root causes of homelessness and poverty.'

More than 2,000 letters of opposition have been submitted, compared to just 41 in support.

The bill would allow homeless people to 'use and move freely in public spaces without discrimination and time limitations' - essentially stating they can reside in parks and on other public land indefinitely without question.

'A person experiencing homelessness has a privacy interest and a reasonable expectation of privacy in any property belonging to the person, regardless of whether the property is located in a public space,' the bill adds.

It would grant people 'experiencing homelessness' the right to 'rest in public spaces and seek protection from adverse weather conditions'. The bill further promises the right to 'pray, meditate, worship or practice religion in public spaces without discrimination based on housing status.'

The bill also specifies a right to live in a vehicle or RV on public land 'provided that the vehicle is legally parked'.

Any person whose rights under the proposal are breached is entitled to 'compensatory damages or $1,000 per violation, whichever is greater'. Penalties of $1,000 could be given to anyone who's deemed to have harassed a homeless person.

Camps are seen pitched up on the side of the road

Homelessness in Portland became a huge issue during the pandemic

The problem of people sleeping on the streets has only been exacerbated in recent months

A tent is seen erected on the side of a residential street in Portland, Oregon

The radical decriminalizing proposal comes amid an explosion in camps in cities like Portland, which has one of the worst crime rates in America, causing some people to move away

The hugely-controversial bill claims 'decriminalization of rest' would allow city leaders to 'redirect' cash from law enforcement into measures that 'address the root causes of homelessness and poverty'

A man attempts to push a stalled car in Portland, Oregon

Drugs are also a problem in Portland - and many residents have expressed their concern

In March, DailyMail.com reported how some Portland residents think the city has become lawless and 'post-apocalyptic' because of rising rates of homelessness and drug abuse.

Earlier this month, Walmart announced they were leaving the city. 'We have nearly 5,000 stores across the U.S. and unfortunately some do not meet our financial expectations,' Walmart said in its announcement.

'While our underlying business is strong, these specific stores haven't performed as well as we hoped.'

Staff members have speculated out of control shoplifting is partly to blame.

'It's definitely the theft,' said one. 'There's nothing political about it.'

The shoplifting has been fueled by runaway drug abuse after Oregon voted to decriminalize recreational drugs in 2020  a law referred to as Measure 110.

Tents are seen lining the road in Portland

The Oregon city has been dealing with the growing crisis since the pandemic

Portland also made headlines recently after numbers that showed in 2022 there were more than 5,000 homeless people throughout the city.

Residents of one Portland neighborhood say they are fed up with the growing homeless crisis after their area was cleared just to see encampments pop back up hours later.

In the southeast part of the city, Ronny McFarland said unhoused individuals have lived on his block for two years and has witnessed everything from fights to strewn garbage to drugs littered on the street.

'Everybody wants to leave, all my neighbors are talking about moving,' McFarland told Portland station KOIN.

'Everyone's starting to look for something else. We are too. At this point, we've been house shopping trying to find a neighborhood where we don't have to deal with it,' the man said.

McFarland said the issue on his street has become so out of control that the homeless encampments take up the entire sidewalk.
An Australian tourist visiting Bali who heroically ran into a burning building in just his shorts has fronted a press conference casually sipping his beer.

Jack Bach, 30, from Frankston in Melbourne was determined to not let the limelight interfere with his holiday as he answered questions about risking his life for locals when he came across the fire at a shopping strip.

'We saw the Balinese ladies and children crying and they were about to lose all their stuff so we thought we better do what we can,' Mr Bach told 7 News on Monday, beer in hand.

Jack Bach from Frankston is being praised as a hero after he ran into a burning building not long after arriving in Bali and helped save a shop's entire stock (pictured speaking to reporters while drinking a beer)

The fire destroyed a clothing store and art gallery and was sparked by an electrical fault. There were no injuries from the blaze (pictured)

He went back inside the burning clothing store about 20 times and, along with half a dozen other tourists, managed to save most of the stock by dragging it outside.

The concreter by trade then went next door where an art gallery looked set to catch alight and successfully saved a number of paintings.

The blaze broke out on Saturday afternoon, not long after Mr Bach and his travel mate, Nathan Garrard, touched down in the Indonesian holiday hotspot.

The roof of the shopping strip eventually collapsed as locals tried to douse the flames with hoses.

Firefighters arrived shortly after and brought the blaze under control.

The inferno was sparked by an electrical fault in a residence located above the shops.

Fortunately no-one was injured and Mr Bach and Mr Garrard are now enjoying the rest of their holiday.
A Met Police officer told a Just Stop Oil protester it was a 'shame' they ignored requests to move from the middle of the road - after a furious driver branded the activists 'c****' in a frustrated rant.

Protesters were out in Marble Arch and around Piccadilly today, infuriating people trying to travel with their slow march as they returned to the streets of London after the King's Coronation.

Footage posted on Twitter showed an officer asking a protester: 'Is there any way we can accommodate you moving to the side, off the road?'

But the protester simply said: 'No I don't think so'.

The officer told him that was a 'shame' - adding that the police now had 'a lot of resources' while looking behind at his colleagues.

'It's a shame to have to have this conversation when if you were to take 10 steps to the left or right, cars can flow, and we can then still walk alongside you,' the uniformed officer said.

A Met Police officer tells this activist it's a 'shame' he won't listen to him and move out of the road

Activists just kept on marching, despite being asked by police to move

In another clip posted online from Piccadilly, a furious Range Rover driver with a child in the passenger seat next to him shouted 'c****' at Just Stop Oil activists.

Motorists beeped their horns at the JSO protesters - but it did not seem to deter the group who appeared unfazed and carried on strolling while holding their huge banners.

Police were seen at the scene, negotiating with demonstrators to get out of the road.

In video footage from Marble Arch a protester called Sophie could be heard blasting out through a megaphone: 'I am 30 years old, I have a niece who is six, I would one day like to have children but the government are not safeguarding our future.'

She accused the government of opening new oil and gas licences, describing it as a 'war against the young'.

A furious driver trying to make his way through London as JSO protesters blocked the way

The protesters infuriated one driver so much that he called them 'c****' while travelling with a young girl in the passenger seat

Protesters started just after 10am on Piccadilly by the Ritz Hotel - they appear to be putting on their high vis jackets in preparation

Protesters slow marching in the Green Park/Piccadilly area

Metropolitan Police officers talking to Just Stop Oil protesters this morning

The protesters in high vis jackets holding banners saying 'just stop oil'

The incidents come after Scotland Yard made 64 arrests on coronation day, with 46 people bailed after being detained on suspicion of causing a public nuisance or breaching the peace.

Numerous people were arrested amidst the crowning of His Majesty on Saturday as Scotland Yard clamped down on those suspected of causing trouble. Four charges have been brought, including over a religiously aggravated public order allegation and class A drugs possession.

Breach of the peace, sexual assault and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance were among the various grounds for arrest over the course of the Royal event.

Several Just Stop Oil protestors were arrested in addition to Animal Rising groups who were also linked to the Grand National chaos last month.

Metropolitan Police officers said they arrested three people in Soho on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance at around 2am on the morning of King Charles' Coronation.

The force revealed that numerous rape alarms were seized and the three people were taken to a south London police station for further questioning.

A 47-year-old man among the group was also further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A statement read: 'There was particular concern from military colleagues that this would scare their horses involved in the procession and, as a result, cause significant risk to the safety of the public and the riders.'

Just Stop Oil protesters are back out on the streets of London slow marching - pictured in Marble Arch

Activists claim the government is not 'safeguarding' their future

Police appear to be monitoring their march again - through the streets of central London

This protester says he used to be a pilot - but now is against new oil and gas

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan also added: 'The intelligence we received led us to be extremely worried about the potential risk to public safety. We are aware of and understand there is public concern over these arrests. However, the matter is still under investigation.'

Caroline Russell, who chairs the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, suggested that it was 'really worrying' that some arrests had been made.

On BBC's Today programme, Ms Russell expressed that some of these arrests were 'very odd'.

She said: 'It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because they'd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms.'

Yesterday however, Chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation Ken Marsh said he was 'flabbergasted' that officers were facing a backlash on clamping down on those who allegedly sought to 'create havoc' and ruin the historic occasion.

He claimed that officers had 'foiled a number of scenarios' - including defacing public monuments with paint, breaching barriers and disrupting official movements.

Commander Findlay added: 'We absolutely understand public concern following the arrests we made this morning.

'Protest is lawful and it can be disruptive. We have policed numerous protests without intervention in the build-up to the Coronation, and during it.

'Our duty is to do so in a proportionate manner in line with relevant legislation. We also have a duty to intervene when protest becomes criminal and may cause serious disruption.

'This depends on the context. The Coronation is a once in a generation event and that is a key consideration in our assessment.

'A protest involving large numbers has gone ahead today with police knowledge and no intervention.'
Comes as pandemic-era expulsion policy Title 42 is set to expire on Thursday  and is predicted will lead to 13,000 crossings per day up from the 7,700 now

Texas Tactical Border Force is deploying Monday in preparation for Title 42 to end on Thursday as the state with the most miles of southern border braces for 13,000 migrant crossings per day once the pandemic-era policy expires.

Gov. Greg Abbott announced the deployment of the elite National Guard group after President Joe Biden also revealed last week that he is sending 1,500 active duty troops to the southern border.

Meanwhile, images emerged with thousands of migrants lining up on the southern side of the U.S.-Mexico border, waiting in anticipation for Title 42 to end on May 11.

Currently, the average number of migrants crossing the southern border each day is 7,700. But the Biden administration estimates that the number could increase to 13,000 every day once Title 42 is no longer in use.

Other external estimates have put that number even higher.

Smugglers are encouraging migrants to head for the border by saying the end of Title 42 will make it easier to cross - even though the Biden administration wants to bring in tough rules to speed up deportations and ban re-entry for up to five years.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is deploying the newly formed Texas Tactical Border Force Monday to help manage 'hot spots' at the southern border with the impending end of Title 42

As Title 42 is set to expire Thursday, May 11, migrants are lining up at the southern border to immediately cross into the U.S. once the policy is no longer in use. Pictured: Hundreds of migrants arrived in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico on Sunday, May 7 to cross the border into El Paso, Texas

'The Biden administration has been a disaster, they ripped apart policies that led to lowest illegal border crossings in decades,' Abbott told Fox & Friends on Monday morning.

He went on: 'We are deploying today a new Texas Tactical Border Force made up of elite National Guard who are trained for one thing, and that is to identify areas where illegal immigrants are trying to cross the border and fill that gap and repel them to deny them access to enter into the United States.'

'They can do it one of several ways  physically turn back those who are trying to come over illegally, and they are building immediate wire border barriers that prevent people from coming across the border,' the Texas governor continued. 'And you saw early iteration of this when you saw long lines of people in El Paso in 24 hours.'

Abbott insists that a border barrier needs to be completed to 'immediately' stop in-flow of migrants.

Title 42 was first passed in 1944 and was enacted by then-President Donald Trump in 2020 at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

The policy allows immigration and border officials to immediately expel migrants without hearing their asylum claims during a public health emergency. Specifically, the original law intends to stop entry of those able to bypass health screenings by crossing illegally.

Some reports indicate that there are between 700,000 and 1 million migrants that could cross in the days following the end of the pandemic-era expulsion policy.

Abbott noted Monday morning that his state is pressing onward to 'very quickly build as many barriers as possible to turn back as many people as possible.'

Texas National Guard soldiers have already been manning the border for the last few years, but the military presence will now be even more prominent as it's all-hands-on-deck for the end of Title 42.

Gov. Abbott shakes the hands of members of the Texas National Guard on Monday, May 8 in Austin, Texas as they prepare to deploy to the southern border to provide assistance with the end of Title 42 in just three days

Thousands of migrants have made the dangerous trek to the U.S. southern border over the last several years by hopping onto moving trains

'We are deploying today a new Texas Tactical Border Force made up of elite National Guard who are trained for one thing, and that is to identify areas where illegal immigrants are trying to cross the border and fill that gap and repel them to deny them access to enter into the United States,' Abbott told Fox & Friends on Monday morning

Illegal immigration and unlawful border crossings have reached an all-time high under the leadership of President Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

'So as you all, and everybody knows, what Mayorkas has said  he said the border is closed,' Abbott said of his talks with the DHS head.

'So, yeah, I've talked to Mayorkas a couple of times. And every time I've talked to him, he continues to have his head in the sand. He's either lying or really doesn't know what's going on, because the border is not closed.'

He added: 'They're doing nothing to stop it and all of the policies that the Biden administration tried to put in place are just going to entice more people to come across the border.'

Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who also represents a border state in Arizona, said Sunday that she has nearly no communication with Mayorkas.
A homeowner who is hosting two Ukrainian refugees in his annexe was refused a mortgage from Halifax after the bank said there was a 'risk' he would rent the room commercially.

A Ukrainian mother and her young daughter have been staying with Dominik Kaum and his family since July 2022.

Mr Kaum applied for a mortgage with Halifax via a broker when his came up for renewal but it was rejected.

The bank claimed that as an annexe attached to the property was being used to host the refugees, there was a 'significant risk' Mr Kaum would in future rent it out for commercial gain.

Mr Kaum and his family told the BBC they were 'very surprised' as they had never rented out the annexe and had no intention of doing so.

Halifax claimed that as an annexe attached to the property was being used to house the refugees, there was a 'significant risk' Mr Kaum would in future rent it out for commercial gain (file photo)

People coming from Ukraine disembark from a ferry boat in Romania after crossing the Danube river at the Isaccea-Orlivka border crossing between Romania and Ukraine on February 26, 2022

The annexe, which Mr Kaum refers to as a small 'granny' flat, is a self-contained room complete with a kitchenette and bathroom. It also has its own front door.

'When we contacted the Halifax through our broker they said they could not provide us with a mortgage because we were providing accommodation to a Ukrainian family and therefore there was a significant risk that we would rent out the room commercially in the future,' Mr Kaum said.

Halifax has since apologised for the 'confusion' and offered Mr Kaum a mortgage deal.

But Mr Kaum claims this was only after he approached BBC's Money Box - who opened an investigation.

A Halifax spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are very supportive of the Homes for Ukraine scheme and would never decline a mortgage application on that basis.

'As soon as we knew the borrower was taking part in the scheme, we issued the mortgage offer.'

Mr Kaum last month slammed Halifax for refusing to grant the mortgage given the bank's 'emphatic' support of the Homes For Ukraine scheme on its website.

On Twitter he wrote: 'It seems disingenuous at best and cynical at worst by @halifaxbank to publicly proclaim support for Homes for Ukraine on their website and communications, and treat your customers like that.

'Halifax is emphatic in its support for #HomesforUkraine on its website. However, it has today refused our mortgage renewal, because we are providing accommodation to a Ukrainian family under the scheme.'

Mr Kaum last month slammed Halifax for refusing to grant the mortgage given the bank's 'emphatic' support of the Homes For Ukraine scheme on its website

According to official figures, 153,000 Ukrainian refugees have so far arrived in the UK and 'most' of them have stayed.

It claimed the valuer did not consider the tenancy was of an informal nature when it suggested the annexe was being let.

The mix-up has 'fortunately' not affected Mr Kaum's finances, but he says if the refusal hadn't been overturned, they 'would have moved from a fixed-term mortgage to a higher rate and cost us over 9,000 a year'.
Donald Trump has slammed the makers of Bud Light for pandering to the radical Left after it used an infamous transgender influencer to promote the popular beer.

The former president derided parent company Anheuser-Busch for hiring Dylan Mulvaney, who rose to fame after documenting her gender transition on TikTok.

Writing on his Truth Social account, the real estate mogul praised a conservative author who recently called the ad campaign a woke, clueless, incredibly dumb miscalculation.

Its time to beat the Radical Left at their own game. Money does talkAnheuser-Busch now understands that. Great new Book by Wayne Allyn Root. Buy your copy today! Trump wrote.

Trump addressed the Bud Light row on his Truth Social account, suggesting Republicans should boycott the watery U.S. beer over its use of Mulvaney in the PR stunt

Wayne Allyn Root, a conservative pundit, has been a long-time defender of the 45th president and even launched a botched bid for the White House himself in 2008

Root penned The Great Patriot Protest & Boycott Book two years ago and has long been a fervent supporter of the 45th president of the United States.

The 61-year-old, who has spouted bogus conspiracy theories online in the past, argues that customers should defund leftist woke companies.

In short, conservatives and patriots must wield the power of the purse. Money talks. We have the power to change the direction of this country by changing the direction of corporate policy, Root said.

The ex-television pundit caused uproar in 2017 when he incorrectly claimed that a mass shooting in Las Vegas was a clearly coordinated Muslim terror attack.

The Bud Light controversy was sparked when Mulvaney was presented with a commemorative can showing her face to mark her '365 days of being a girl.'

Mulvaney announced her plans to transition last year and underwent invasive facial feminization surgery in December 2022.

The gruesome operation sees bones sliced out of a patient's face and sanded down in a bid to soften male features.

But the PR stunt sparked a furious response from conservatives, who accused the brand of meddling in one of the most hot-button culture war issues there is.

Mulvaney, a 26-year-old actress, took part in a social media collaboration with the popular beer manufacturer on Instagram

Sales of the watery, low-calorie beer immediately slumped by more than one-fifth, sparking fears the ongoing boycott could do lasting damage.

In the wake of the video, Anheuser-Busch lost more than $6billion in market capitalization in just six days.

The beer giants stock roughly traded at just over 5 percent decrease in the total share value and the company's market capitalization stood at $113.33billion.

And in the first week after the video was posted, Bud Light dollar sales dipped 6 percent, as Coors Light rose 3.5 percent and Miller Lite 3.1 percent.

Brendan Whitworth, who heads Anheuser-Busch InBev's U.S. operations, said on April 14 that he regretted the division caused by the company's collaboration with Mulvaney.

"We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people," the CEO wrote. "We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer."

Two executives, Alissa Heinerscheid, vice president of marketing for Bud Light, and Daniel Blake, Budweiser's vice president for marketing, were put on leave at the end of April after receiving death threats.

Several famous faces slammed the brand for their decision after pro-Trump Kid Rock shot the cans and commented: 'F*** Bud Light, and f*** Anheuser-Busch. Have a terrific day.'
For most people, seeing a dog gracefully riding around on a skateboard would be a rare sight.

But for those attending the four-day dog skateboarding competition in Thailand's capital Bangkok, watching dogs show their skills off in a makeshift skate park simply becomes the norm.

In fact, it looks even less bizarre when they are joined by lizards being paraded around wearing headsets and rucksacks, squirrels in dresses and dogs in pushchairs.

Hilarious photos captured some of the best shots of dogs flying over ramps on skateboards at this year's Pet Expo Thailand competition yesterday.

Dogs competing at the event, which was held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok, were judged on form and agility and separated into novice and experienced categories.

Taking first place in the novice category was Mui while Suradej was crowned champion of the experienced category.

Hunter's owner releases him down a ramp on a skateboard during Thailand's Pet Expo competition

Steady on! Townie, the third place winner, looks to regain control on the skateboard during Sunday's competition

A furry dog cannons down a ramp at some speed with the Pet Expo Thailand podium in the background

The crowd in the background are captivated as another owner releases his dog onto a skateboard

Gracious: Townie puts the brakes on after going down one of the ramps at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre

Dogs are joined by exotic creatures including this lizard who is wearing clothes, a headset and a rucksack

Meanwhile, a prairie dog, belonging to the squirrel family, wears a dress while the competition goes on

Dogs being paraded around the event in a pushchair wear sunglasses and get cooled down by a fan behind them

Townie stares down the camera lens after securing third place in the skateboarding competition

Townie receives a hug from its owner after putting on an impressive display at the Thailand competition

A corgi wows the crowd as it makes its way down the ramp riding a skateboard yesterday afternoon

Tung, with his tongue sticking out, begins his descent of the ramp while riding a skateboard

Hungry! Tung gets distracted and attempts to bite his skateboard during the competition

Cool, calm, collected: John, who came second in the event, looks composed as he makes his way down the ramp

Owners celebrate getting their dogs on the podium at the Sirikit National Convention Centre

A German shepherd attempts to participate in a skateboarding competition during Pet Expo Thailand

Winner! Suradej beats all his opponents and is crowned as champion of Pet Expo Thailand 2023

The winners of the experienced level at the dog skateboarding competition - which Suradej triumphed in
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Traditional portraits released to mark the King's Coronation have shown a glimpse into Charles' vision of a slimmed-down monarchy.

King Charles and Queen Camilla posed with working members of the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace to mark the historic occasion this weekend.

The King is pictured in full regalia, wearing the Imperial State Crown along with his regal purple tunic and Robe of Estate. He is stood alongside Camilla, who is wearing Queen Mary's Crown, with the train of her lengthy embroidered Robe of Estate spread in front of her.

To their immediate left are the Prince and Princess of Wales, who wore her Alexandra McQueen dress and leaf embroidery headpiece by Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen. On the other side of Charles was his sister the Princess Royal in military dress.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are also pictured either side of Princess Alexandra - the late Queen Elizabeth's cousin. The Duke of Kent and the Gloucesters are also included in the image by Hugo Burnand.

King Charles and Queen Camilla posed with working members of the Royal Family at Buckingham Palace to mark the historic occasion this weekend

An individual portrait of the King has also been released, showing Charles holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are pictured in full regalia in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace

Queen Camilla has also been pictured in an individual portrait wearing Queen Mary's crown and her embroidered Robe of Estate

A royal expert told MailOnline that Anne, the Princess Royal, being positioned next to her brother King Charles is 'most significant' and 'shows much he appreciates her and will be relying on her'.

Richard Fitzwilliams said Princess Anne's proximity to the King 'is no accident', adding that the fact she is 'experienced and hard-working' will have been noticed by Charles.

He said: 'Princess Anne's proximity to the sovereign, that's no accident. She's experienced and hard-working.

'Anne's been at it a long long time, she knows the ropes. The King knows how popular she is, so it's no accident his sister is next door to him.

'It shows much how much he appreciates her and how much he will be relying on her, she is extremely popular and has a high profile. People know who she is and respect her, that's very important.'

Mr Fitzwilliams said the portrait of the working royals signified 'the people who the King can depend on', adding: 'The absentees, everyone knows the reasons for that'.

Noting that the group portrait included only four people under the age of 70, Mr Fitzwilliams said that this will be a 'challenge' for the King in the future, who will need to decide 'how slimmed down he wants the monarchy to be'.

Of the King's solo portrait, he said: 'This one is a strong forceful portrait of a monarch who knows his own mind and is very experienced'. Queen Camilla looked 'more relaxed and comfortable' wearing the crown in her solo portrait than she did in Westminster Abbey, he added.

Former Tatler photographer Mr Burnand - a favourite of Charles and Camilla's - took the couple's official wedding photos in 2005, and for William and Kate's nuptials in 2011.

Prince William, Charles' eldest son, is the first in line to the throne, followed by his three children George, Charlotte and Louis.

Prince Edward, Charles' youngest brother, is 13th in line to the throne, while his elder sister Princess Anne is 16th.

Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, was the first cousin of Queen Elizabeth and the first cousin once removed of Charles. He is 30th in the line of succession.

Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, was the first cousin of Prince Philip and is also the first cousin once removed of King Charles. He is 40th in line to the throne and is

An individual portrait of the King has also been released, showing Charles holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross, seated on a Throne Chair in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace.

Camilla was pictured alongside the King, and also in a solo portrait.

It comes as the royal couple have pledged to rededicate their lives to service as Charles called the nation's support throughout the historic celebrations 'the greatest possible coronation gift'.

In a message released at the end of the weekend's celebrations, the King said: 'As the coronation weekend draws to a close, my wife and I just wanted to share our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

'We pay particular tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.

Prince Harry and the Duke of York were not included within the portrait as they are no longer working royals

'To those who joined in the celebrations - whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities - we thank you, each and every one.

'To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the realms and Commonwealth.'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with Prince Andrew, were nowhere to be seen.

Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior royals in March 2020, and have since given tell-all interviews about their treatment. Harry attended the Coronation on Saturday, but flew back to California shortly after the ceremony.

Prince Harry also released his bombshell memoir Spare, revealing intimate details of the Royal Family's private life, following the Queen's death.

The Duke of York, who played no formal role in the Coronation but attended in his Order of the Garter robes, sat in the same row as Harry during the ceremony at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

Andrew stepped down from public life after his Newsnight interview in November 2019 and the furore over his friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The King is known to be in favour of a smaller, cheaper monarchy and is understood to be likely to keep the number of working royals at 11.

But his sister last week said the idea of a smaller Royal Family 'doesn't sound like a good idea from where I'm standing'.

It comes as Coronation celebrations continued for a third day today, with royals taking part in Big Help Out events.

Meanwhile, Prince Louis turned into a labourer as he joined Prince George, Princess Charlotte and the Prince and Princess of Wales by shovelling dirt, pushing wheelbarrows and operating a digger at a Scout Hut in Slough.

Prince Louis and the Prince of Wales join volunteers to help renovate and improve the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough

Prince Louis eats toasted marshmallows as the Wales' took part in the Big Help Out earlier today

Prince Louis, the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte hold hands during the event this afternoon

The young prince missed the Coronation Concert last night because it was past his bedtime, but took part his first ever official royal engagement today.

When the Prince of Wales took control of a digger, Louis jumped into his father's lap as William moved the mechanical arm and grabbed a bucket full of soil before dumping it on a heap. He looked fascinated as William worked the controls of the excavator.

And it didn't end there, Kate was seen pushing a wheelbarrow while her youngest son shoveled in sand. He then took control, steering it expertly as his mum supported its weight. Louis also did some painting for a mural.

Although Louis has been at numerous big royal events from Trooping the Colour to the coronation, it is thought to be the first time he has actively participated in an official visit face to face with the public.

While the King and Queen had quiet day away from the public eye after Sunday evening's Coronation Concert, other royals joined in the Big Help Out.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh helped at a puppy class for trainee Guide Dogs in Reading, while the Princess Royal attend a County Civic Service recognising local volunteers in Gloucester Cathedral.

Edward confessed the royal family was concerned Miss Piggy would gate-crash the royal box during the Windsor Castle musical extravaganza, after Kermit the Frog turned up and danced in front of the duke's seat.

'Everybody in the Royal Box was nervous when Miss Piggy would turn up,' he said. 'There was an empty seat just behind me and we didn't know who it was for.

'We suddenly thought it could be her and once we started that rumour, everyone around us was very nervous.'

Edward and Sophie were seen to be sweetly offering support to the late Queen's cousin Princess Alexandra, who was smiling broadly, with both assisting her by holding her arms.
The NYPD is seeking six people who jumped onto the subway tracks and blocked an incoming train on Saturday at a protest over Jordan Neely's chokehold death.

The protesters were part of a larger group at the Lexington Avenue and East 63 Street Q train subway stop on Saturday at 6.30pm.

They jumped onto the track while a train was approaching the station, blocking the track and delaying service until they were cleared by the NYPD.

Thirteen people were arrested at the scene. The six people now being sought by the NYPD fled the station.

They are now wanted for criminal trespassing.

The protesters were part of a larger group at the Lexington Avenue and East 63 Street Q train subway stop on Saturday at 6.30pm

Thirteen people were arrested at the scene. The six people now being sought by the NYPD fled the station

The protesters blocked an incoming Q train at the station, Now, they are wanted for criminal trespassing

The group was protesting the death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old mentally ill Michael Jackson impersonator who died on Monday after being put in a chokehold by Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old Marine veteran.

The New York Post cites police sources who say he was on a list of the top 50 most in need of help in the city.

Penny claims Neely was erratic, screaming and throwing garbage at passengers on the train.

He and two other men subdued Neely on the ground.

Penny put him in a chokehold for several minutes, even as bystanders warned that they could kill him. Neely was filmed going limp in Penny's arms.

When EMTs got to the scene, he was unconscious. He was formally pronounced dead at the hospital.

The group was protesting the death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old mentally ill Michael Jackson impersonator who died on Monday after being put in a chokehold by Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old Marine veteran

Neely's family says Penny belongs in prison. A grand jury is expected to meet this week to decide whether or not charges are warranted

Penny has not been charged or arrested but a grand jury is expected to be impaneled this week.

In a statement last week, his attorneys said he was trying to protect others from a mentally unstable and unpredictable stranger.

Neely's family say he belongs in prison. They have responded angrily to Penny's remarks about Neely's mental health.

'Daniel Penny's press release is not an apology nor an expression of regret.

'It is a character assassination and a clear example of why he believes he was entitled to take Jordan's life.

'He knew nothing about Jordan's history when he intentionally wrapped his arms around Jordan's neck, and squeezed and kept squeezing.

'His actions on the train and now his words show why he needs to be in prison.'

They also begged Mayor Eric Adams to make contact with them.

'The family wants you to know that Jordan matters.

'You seem to think others are more important than him. You cannot "assist" someone with a chokehold.'

Last week, Mayor Adams slammed other politicians who called Neely's death a 'murder', and urged them to wait for more of the facts of the case to come out before making a judgement.
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Royal fans took to the River Thames in Henley today to pay their respects to the newly crowned King and Queen.

Dozens of well-wishers arranged a special flotilla with yachts, rowing boats and canoes all decorated to celebrate the historic coronation.

Undeterred by the grey and drizzly weather, a convoy of vessels adorned with Union Jack flags and balloons in red, white, and blue sailed on by as onlookers gathered on the nearby banks and on bridges above.

While some boats had retractable roofs to spare them from the rain, other fans were forced to wear raincoats as they made their way up the river in Oxfordshire.

Royal fans took to the River Thames in Henley today to pay their respects to the newly crowned King Charles III and Queen Camilla

While some boats had retractable roofs to spare them from the rain, other fans were forced to wear raincoats as they made their way up the river in Oxfordshire

Undeterred by the grey and drizzly weather, a convoy of vessels adorned with Union Jack flags and balloons in red, white, and blue sailed on by

Dozens of well-wishers arranged a special flotilla with yachts, rowing boats and canoes all decorated to celebrate the historic coronation

Two canoes decorated with red and blue flags and pictures of King Charles III make their way up the River Thames today

Two revellers make their way up the River Thames in canoe adorned with union jacks

The Coronation Flotilla arrives at Henley Bridge as spectators watch a rowing boat go past

Two people wave to the camera onboard a decorated Flying Colours II at Henley Bridge, Oxfordshire

Royal fans in boats, canoes and rowing boats make their way up the River Thames as part of the Coronation flotilla on Friday

Onlookers gathered on the nearby banks and on bridges above to watch the patriotic flotilla
Joe Biden will face fresh accusations of meddling in the lives of American households after his administration announced a green crackdown on dishwashers.

His Department of Energy quietly released tighter rules for the home appliances on Friday afternoon as millions of people across the country prepared to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

The annual nationwide festivities mark the anniversary of Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

The rules, which form part of the administrations climate change agenda, would slash water use by more than one-third and cut energy use limits by 27% for dishwashers in the U.S.

Any changes would only apply to new models on sale once the new rules have officially come into effect, expected to be 2027.

The new rules would force manufacturers to limit dishwashers to using 3.2 gallons of water per cycle, far below the current federal limit of 5 gallons.

Critics of the new rules, released ahead of the U.S. Cinco de Mayo festivities, say they could push up appliance prices for customers.

President Joe Biden's Department of Energy is pushing his green agenda by wanting dishwasher manufacturers to make the machines even more efficient

It would also require manufacturers to reduce their products' energy consumption by nearly 30%.

Most dishwashers on the market are already well below the federal standard, with most using 3.5 gallons per cycle or less.

Jill Notini, a spokeswoman for the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, warned that ordinary Americans will ultimately pick up the tab for the new rules.

'Consumers will pay the real price,' she told DailyMail.com. 'The Department of Energy has proposed very stringent standards for home appliances that will require higher upfront costs to purchase a product.'

'Manufacturers just want to be able to deliver high performing, fully featured products at costs that consumers of all incomes can afford. The DoE is making that very difficult with the standards they are proposing,' Ms Notini added.

But administration officials claim that the plans will lower costs for American families and businesses while tackling the climate crisis.

Abgail Marone, an aide to Josh Hawley, a Republican senator from Missouri, accused the Biden administration of peddling 'a radical green energy agenda.'

Leave our dishwashers alone, she said.

It marks the latest step in what has been branded the administrations war on home appliances in a bid to cut emissions and save energy.

Republicans recently reacted with fury after a Biden-appointed safety regulator suggested that authorities could ban gas stoves considered to be major polluters.

CPSC commissioner Richard Trumka Jr. said earlier this year that gas stove regulation has reached a boiling point.

Trumka claimed the body 'has the responsibility to ban consumer products that emit hazardous substances, particularly, when those emissions harm children.'

'Any option is on the table. Products that can't be made safe can be banned,' he said.

He later forced to clarify that he had been speaking about new products, and that a retrospective gas stove ban was not being considered.

Gas stove manufacturers argue that they are just as harmful as other means of cooking

The Energy Department also wants new efficiency standards for washing machines, but industry insiders are complaining that the regulations will soil laundry day

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission makes decisions independently from the executive branch.

But a leaked memo from October 2022, first obtained by Fox News, showed the top safety watchdog was considering tightening the rules on dangerous emissions.

Bidens Department of Energy has already pushed through stricter environmental standards on washing machines and refrigerators that have been described as overregulation on steroids.

On his first day in office in January 2021, he signed an executive order telling DoE officials to make major revisions to current appliance regulation standards.

A month later, the agency listed more than a dozen energy efficiency rules, impacting appliances like water heaters, cooking products and lamps, that it would review.

At the end of last year, the White House released a statement boasting that it had taken action against 110 household appliances to help cut emissions.
House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul is threatening to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt of Congress if he doesn't hand over a key document related to the August 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal by Thursday, as oversight by Republicans into the deadly exit ramps up.

In August 2021, 13 U.S. service members and 170 others were killed near the Hamid Karzai International Airport after a suicide bomber detonated an explosive. Additionally, thousands of U.S. citizens and allies of the United States who were unable to quickly evacuate were left stranded in the country after the Taliban quickly took over the capital of Kabul.

The committee led by McCaul is investigating the Biden administration's role in the deadly withdrawal, which he has previously called a 'stunning failure' of leadership.

McCaul is specifically seeking a classified dissenting cable that U.S. State Department employees sent prior to the Taliban's takeover on July 13, 2021. The cable warned about a 'deteriorating' security situation' and urged the immediate evacuation of allies, a warning that the Biden administration did not heed, say Republicans.

In a letter to Blinken Friday, obtained by DailyMail.com, McCaul, R-Texas, writes that as part of the committee's investigation, Blinken must hand over the cable in its entirety by May 11 or legal proceedings will be immediately started against him.

His request comes after a subpoena was issued to Blinken on March 28 requesting the 'dissent cable' along with other documents and Biden administration communications on the withdrawal.

Secretary of State Blinken must comply with a subpoena by May 11

McCaul writes in the letter that the information turned over to the committee from the State Department has been 'insufficient.

The department provided an April 27 classified briefing, which Republicans on the committee have said did not fulfill the many demands they outlined.

A State Department spokesperson slammed the move by McCaul in a statement.

'It's unfortunate that despite having received a classified briefing on the dissent channel cable as well as a written summary that the House Foreign Affairs Committee continues to pursue this unnecessary and unproductive action,' spokesperson Vedant Patel said.

'Nevertheless, we will continue to respond to appropriate oversight inquiries and provide Congress the information it needs to do its job while protecting the ability of State Department employees to do theirs,' Patel continued in a statement.

However, McCaul writes in the letter that the information turned over to the committee from the State Department has been 'insufficient.'

'The Department provided the Committee a roughly one-page summary of the dissent cable as well as a summary of the Department's official response that was just under one page in length,' says McCaul.

'The Department has confirmed that the original dissent cable totaled four pages in length, meaning that the summary represented a 75% reduction of the original cable.'

As a result, the agency is 'now in violation of its legal obligation to produce these documents and must do so immediately.'

He gave a May 11 6:00 p.m. ET deadline for Blinken to comply or else the committee will move forward with contempt of Congress proceedings, he writes.

'As noted above, should the Department fail to comply with its legal obligation, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding.'

If Blinken is held in contempt of Congress, President Biden's Department of Justice would have the option to move forward with legal proceedings.

It is unlikely that the DOJ would take action against Blinken, as the department has declined to prosecute other cabinet-level secretaries that have similarly been held in contempt - including Trump-era Attorney General Bill Barr Obama-era Attorney General Eric Holder.

Hundreds of people gathered near a U.S. Air Force C-17 transport plane at the perimeter of the international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, Aug. 16, 2021

McCaul has pushed back the deadline for Blinken to comply with the subpoena multiple times.

The first deadline was April 1, then April 21, May 1 and now May 11 following discussions with the State Department.

The chairman also accused the Biden administration of 'misleading the public' with the release of several 'summarizing' documents related to the withdrawal.

'On April 6, the Biden Administration released a 12-page document which it represented as an unclassified 'summary' of the Administration's after-action reviews of the Afghanistan withdrawal and took questions on the subject from the media in a press briefing. This summary, however, misrepresented the conclusions contained in the source material it purported to summarize,' the letter states.

'As the Committee detailed in an April 25 letter, the Department's classified After- Action Review specifically contradicted inaccurate and misleading assertions in the White House summary and press briefing that there was not 'chaos' during the emergency evacuation at Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport and that the Administration did not bear significant responsibility for the failures of the withdrawal.'

'Accordingly, the Committee has reason to be highly skeptical of summary documents prepared by the Administration, especially where it does not have access to the original source material to perform an independent verification.'
Convicted fraudster Elizabeth Holmes has revealed she spent six months traveling the country in an RV with her husband as she prepared her defense.

In a series of interviews with the New York Times as the 39-year-old tries to revamp her image ahead of her prison sentence, Holmes shared how she and her husband, Billy Evans, were sleeping in campgrounds and at Walmart parking lots for half the year in 2019.

She also told how she spent some of the past year volunteering at a rape crisis center in an attempt to portray herself in a more relatable light whilst defending her actions while promoting her future as a health-tech innovator.

Federal court documents submitted by Holmes ahead of her sentencing showed the conwoman and Evans enjoying their trip, which appears to span much of the lower 48 states.

Speaking of Theranos, Holmes acknowledged she made numerous mistakes due to her lack of knowledge and understanding at the time.

But the New York Times is now being slammed online for its favorable portrayal of the mother-of-two who scammed people out of millions of dollars as she promoted a blood testing service that never actually worked.

Elizabeth Holmes, 39, has revealed that she spent six months traveling the country in an RV with her husband, Billy Evans, as she prepared her defense.

Holmes said she and Evans spent half of 2019 sleeping at campgrounds and Walmart parking lots. She can be seen in the camper she and her spouse used to travel the United States

Holmes, husband Billy Evans and their dog Balto are pictured enjoying a lengthy road trip which saw the former billionaire park up in Walmart overnight

The coupld were all smiles during an uneven hike through a deserted woodland

Holmes, Evans and their dog Balto also looked equally delighted by this snowy scene. Balto was later mauled to death by a cougar

In the May 7 profile, Holmes claimed she built a persona that was not 'authentic' when trying to promote Theranos and becoming heralded as an innovator.

She said she is not actually the kind of person that would wear black turtlenecks, red lipstick and use an authoritative voice.

Instead, Holmes portrayed herself as a loving mother of two who wears a 'bucket hat and sunglasses' and enjoys walks around the San Diego Zoo.

In fact, she said, when District Judge Edward J. Davilla set a date for her criminal fraud trial in 2019, she and Evans spent six months traveling around the United States in an RV while prosecutors worked to convict her.

Before the trial began, Holmes said, she and Evans were sleeping at campgrounds and Walmart parking lots.

'Even though that period was a crisis, and Theranos was my life and like my child, I gave everything I had to it,' she said.

Once it was gone, though, 'I also became free.'

And, speaking of her relationship with Evans, Holmes said, 'Finding your person in the middle of all of this and experiencing that love when you're going through hell is the most beautiful thing I've ever experienced.'

She had previously claimed her former partner and ex-Theranos COO Ramesh 'Sunny' Balwani physically and emotionally abused her, and disclosed that she had been a victim of sexual assault during her time at Stanford University.

Those experiences, she said, prompted her to start volunteering at a rape crisis hotline.

Holmes also said she found true love with Evans while dealing with the allegations that she defrauded investors out of millions of dollars. The two are pictured at her sentencing in March

Holmes portrayed herself as a loving mother of two who wears a 'bucket hat and sunglasses' and enjoys walks around the San Diego Zoo

Holmes also acknowledged in the interviews that she made 'so many mistakes,' claiming 'there was so much I didn't know and understand, and I feel like when you do it wrong, it's like you really internalize it in a deep way.

Still, she said, the company could have changed the health care industry for good if it had actually worked as she thought.

Elizabeth Holmes claimed that her 'Edison' device (named after Thomas Edison) was a mini lab that could process over 240 tests, from cholesterol to infectious disease but it didn't work

Her so-called Edison machine had promised to be able to test a tiny amount of blood in minutes to detect dozens of medical issues.

Banking on this promise, pharmacy giant Walgreens decided to partner with Theranos to offer in-store blood collection centers.

By 2014 the company was said to be worth $9 billion and Forbes ranked Holmes as the youngest self-made billionaire in the world.

But the following year the exhaustive investigation by WSJ, it was claimed Theranos's system provided false reports and revealed the company had been using commercially available machines from other companies for most of its testing.

Lawsuits started flooding in and Theranos collapsed in scandal, eventually shuttering in 2018. Holmes was then convicted in January 2022 on four counts of fraud and conspiracy.

'We would've seen through our vision,' she insists and reveals she is even working on new inventions.

The Times describes Holmes view as 'idealistic delusion'.

'I still dream about being able to contribute in that space,' Holmes said. 'I still feel the same calling to it as I always did and I still think the need is there.'

She claimed in a now-ridiculed New York Times piece that she built a fake persona to lead Theranos

Holmes was pictured with Evans and their two kids enjoying her last few days of freedom in San Diego, California on April 27

DailyMail.com photos show Holmes and Evans going for a stroll near their San Diego home last month where the doting dad was seen cradling son William, 2, while she snuggled newborn Invicta last month

Holmes is seen kissing her newborn daughter Invicta. She has been accused of getting pregnant in order to get a lighter sentence and avoid prison time

Many online have called out the New York Times for its favorable portrayal of Holmes

Holmes has been accused of getting pregnant in order to get a lighter sentence and avoid prison time.

She had a child shortly before her trial and has had a second since her conviction which some have seen as a cynical ploy to obtain a reduced sentence following her trial.

Now, many are criticizing the New York Times for its favorable portrayal of the convict, in which Amy Chozik says she was 'admittedly swept up in Liz as an authentic and sympathetic person.

'She's gentle and charismatic in a quiet way,' Chozik writes of her conversations with Holmes. 'If you are in her presence, it is impossible not to believe her, not to be taken with her and be taken in by her.'

Former CNN host Soledad O'Brien tweeted that it must be 'nice to be a pretty white lady working your charm on a NYT reporter,' and political consultant Matt Dowd suggested, 'Maybe this article would have been served more by a discussion of sociopaths.'

Communications director Keith Edwards also told Chozik 'the con artist conned you,' and another Twitter user suggested the Times was suggesting 'committing fraud actually isn't that bad.'
Industry groups have dismissed Labour's 'unrealistic' plans to hike stamp duty for foreign property buyers and restrict the sale of new-builds to overseas investors.

Sir Keir Starmer is poised to include proposals for higher taxes on non-UK property purchasers in Labour's manifesto ahead of the next general election.

According to the Financial Times, Labour will pledge to increase the surcharge on stamp duty - currently at 2 per cent - for overseas buyers purchasing UK property.

This will come with new rules to prevent overseas buyers purchasing more than 50 per cent of properties in a new development.

Party officials told the newspaper their plans would also include restrictions on property sales for a certain period - for example, only allowing first-time buyers to buy homes in a new development for the first six months.

Sir Keir Starmer is poised to include proposals for higher taxes on non-UK property purchasers in Labour's manifesto ahead of the next general election

Labour will also reportedly pledge new rules to prevent overseas buyers purchasing more than 50 per cent of properties in a new development

Sir Keir last week tackled Rishi Suank over the challenges facing Britons trying to get on the property ladder during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons.

The Labour leader accused the PM of 'kicking them when they are down' by ditching compulsory housebuilding targets.

But Mr Sunak pointed to figures that showed last year had the highest number of first-time buyers in 20 years.

Labour's new housing policies are set to get the go-ahead this summer as the party drafts its manifesto ahead of a general election expected next year, the Financial Times reported.

An analysis by the Centre for Public Data, a non-profit organisation, last year showed an increasing presence of overseas buyers in the UK property market.

It found close to 250,000 residential properties in England and Wales were registered to individuals based overseas, which equated to roughly 1 per cent of total housing stock.

This was up from less than 88,000 homes in 2010.

But there are fears a fresh crackdown on foreign ownership could stall the property market by blocking developers from the overseas investment they might need before beginning construction on a project.

John Hawksworth, former chief economist at PwC, posted on Twitter: 'Restricting or taxing more heavily property sales to non-residents would be well intentioned.

'But beware of unintended consequences if it kills off some apartment developments that rely for viability on advance off-plan sales to overseas investors.'

Luke Mills, head of UK residential at real estate advisers CBRE, said: 'It's well-intentioned to let first-time buyers buy first, but working across the board it is unrealistic.'

Stewart Baseley, executive chair of the Homebuilders Federation, said: 'While prioritising UK buyers is key, some large-scale developments require upfront funding that (overseas) investor buyers can provide.'
Tensions between the Duke of Sussex and the rest of his family are so bad that Mike Tindall once publicly joked that the royals would like to throw a few punches at him.

Now, Prince Harry's ghostwriter, J. R. Moehringer, has revealed that their relationship became so fraught while they were working on the book Spare that he started shouting at the King's younger son at one point.

'I was exasperated with Prince Harry,' Moehringer admits, 'My head was pounding, my jaw was clenched, and I was starting to raise my voice.

'And yet some part of me was still able to step outside the situation and think, ''This is so weird. I'm shouting at Prince Harry''.

'Then, as Harry started going back at me, as his cheeks flushed and his eyes narrowed, a more pressing thought occurred: ''Whoa, it could all end right here''.'

Prince Harry's ghostwriter, J. R. Moehringer (pictured), has revealed that their relationship became so fraught while they were working on the book Spare that he started shouting at the King's younger son at one point.

Ghostwriter, J. R. Moehringer claims his dispute with Harry (pictured at his father's coronation on Saturday) came as they discussed an incident in which the Duke of Sussex was captured by pretend terrorists during military exercises

READ MORE: Prince Harry grins at Heathrow after racing from his blink and you'll miss it appearance at his father's Coronation Prince Harry flashed a Hollywood-worthy smile at Heathrow as he prepared to jet back to California after an awkward appearance at his father's coronation Advertisement

The incident last summer is recalled in a new article that Moehringer has written for the New Yorker magazine.

He explains that the dispute came as they discussed an incident in which the Duke of Sussex was captured by pretend terrorists during military exercises.

Harry's captors screamed insults at him, 'culminating in a vile dig at Princess Diana'. One of the participants later apologised to him.

'Harry always wanted to end this scene with a thing he said to his captors, a comeback that struck me as unnecessary, and somewhat inane,' Moehringer discloses.

'For months, I'd been crossing out the comeback, and for months Harry had been pleading for it to go back in. Now he wasn't pleading, he was insisting, and it was 2am and I was starting to lose it.

'Although this wasn't the first time that Harry and I had argued, it felt different; it felt as if we were hurtling toward some kind of decisive rupture, in part because Harry was no longer saying anything. He was just glaring into the camera.

'Finally, he exhaled and calmly explained that, all his life, people had belittled his intellectual capabilities, and this flash of cleverness proved that, even after being kicked and punched and deprived of sleep and food, he had his wits about him.

'''Oh,'' I said. ''O.K.'' It made sense now. But I still refused. ''Why?'' Because, I told him, everything you just said is about you.

'You want the world to know that you did a good job, that you were smart. But, strange as it may seem, memoir isn't about you.

Prince Harry's tell-all autobiography Spare was officially released in January this year

'It's not even the story of your life. It's a story carved from your life, a particular series of events chosen because they have the greatest resonance for the widest range of people, and at this point in the story those people don't need to know anything more than that your captors said a cruel thing about your mom.

'After finally accepting the writer's explanation, he shot me a mischievous grin. ''I really enjoy getting you worked up like that''.

'I burst into laughter and shook my head, and we moved on to his next set of edits.'
A transgender woman has been sacked by Starbucks after footage showed her berating a female customer and allegedly assaulting a man who filmed the incident.

The clash broke out at a Starbucks branch near the ferry terminal of Southampton, Hampshire, on Sunday, April 30.

The 56-second clip shows the employee on the same side of the counter as the customer, arguing with her.

The person recording the incident said the woman had apparently said something 'transphobic' to upset the employee, who angrily refuses to serve her.

Footage shows the female customer saying: 'You're rude, don't ever call me transphobic, ever. You do not know me.'

A transgender woman has been sacked by Starbucks after footage showed her berating a female customer and allegedly assaulting a man who filmed the incident

The incident took place at this Starbucks branch near the ferry terminal in Southampton

In response, the transgender woman says: 'You're calling me a man, you're being transphobic, Karen. Now get out.'

'Karen' is a derisive insult imported from the US, taking aim at white, middle-aged women. Feminists have criticised it as a misogynistic term.

The conversation heats up, as the woman insists, 'do not call me transphobic'.

The transgender employee then claps in the woman's face and denies her request for a refund, adding: 'You are transphobic, now get out.'

Repeatedly, the woman is told to 'get out' and that she is 'trespassing', before the employee appears to notice a man using his smartphone filming the encounter.

Without warning, the employee comes forward and lunges for the phone, demanding the man hand it over while appearing to assault him.

The footage prompted heavy criticism on social media, with many users copying in Starbucks' Twitter handle and demanding answers.

Australian women's activist Sall Grover shared the clip on Twitter, and wrote: 'When women see men who think theyre women in female spaces, they often get themselves out as quickly as possible.

The employee appears to notice a man using his smartphone filming the encounter

Australian women's activist Sall Grover shared the clip on Twitter, and wrote: 'When women see men who think they're women in female spaces, they often get themselves out as quickly as possible'

Transsexual performer Buck Angel added: 'Haha they are crumbling fast! Wingnuts are exposing themselves.'

Debra Gordon posted: 'This person should be fired! They are there to serve customers - not abuse them'

Annabelle Bond wrote: 'Stop enabling this behaviour. No employee should treat a customer like that'

Balena Bros branded the employee's behaviour 'unacceptable'

The footage prompted heavy criticism on social media, with many users copying in Starbucks' Twitter handle and demanding answers

Activist Kellie-Jay Keen, who was recently mobbed by trans rights campaigners in New Zealand, also shared the clip. She said: 'Which branch is this? We should all go'

'[They] say nothing because we all know how men react when we say something they dont like.'

Activist Oli London also shared the video and tweeted: 'Is this an acceptable way for staff to behave Starbucks UK?'

Debra Gordon posted: 'This person should be fired! They are there to serve customers - not abuse them.'

Annabelle Bond wrote: 'Stop enabling this behaviour. No employee should treat a customer like that.'

Transsexual performer Buck Angel added: 'Haha they are crumbling fast! Wingnuts are exposing themselves.'

Others branded the employee's behaviour 'entitlement' and 'unacceptable'.

Activist Kellie-Jay Keen, who was recently mobbed by trans rights campaigners in New Zealand, also shared the clip. She said: 'Which branch is this? We should all go'

A Starbucks spokesman said: 'The licensee has confirmed that the partner (employee) no longer works at the company. Starbucks has no tolerance for behaviour of this kind and we are very sorry for the experience that this customer had.'
A row has erupted over the new state flag of Utah, with opponents claiming the new design is 'woke' and GOP backers saying the older flag was boring.

A bill signed into law in March said that a redesigned flag would replace the state flag from 1911.

The new flag is a modern beehive design, set inside a honeycomb-shaped hexagon, with the state's famed mountains represented by white peaks that sit behind.

Utah is nicknamed the Beehive State, thanks to its large Mormon population, who say the insect habitat perfectly encapsulates their philosophy of everyone working together.

It replaces a more typical state flag dating back to 1913, which consisted of a crest with a bald eagle and beehive inside mounted on a dark navy back drop.

Those behind the new flag - including most of the conservative state's top GOP lawmakers - say that it stands out more strongly, while still perfectly encapsulating Utah

But opponents claim the original flag is better - and have even suggested the new design represents woke culture run amok.

The new flag design (pictured) is set to be adopted in March of next year

The current state flag will be known as the historic flag, and only to be flown as a set on state holidays. It dates back to 1911, with detractors complaining that it looks boring

Republican Mike Schultz, majority leader of the Utah House of Representatives, told the Wall Street Journal: 'We had a sucky flag. Now we have a cool flag.'

Schultz, said he arrived at his position in a roundabout way, saying: ' [After the 2020 election] it took me about four months or so to take down the Trump flag because I was in denial.

'I ran the Utah flag afterward. And I just thought, it looks like crap.'

But others have since said that the new flag design has gone 'woke' and in an attempt to have it reversed pushed for a referendum on the new design.

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson's office said backers submitted just under 50,000 signatures, far short of the 134,298 they needed to put the issue to a vote in 2024.

Chad Saunders, a marketing executive, who organized the referendum said he was unhappy about the process.

Saunders gripe came over the new flag having the date 1847 removed, and other symbols marking when Brigham Young led Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley.

He said: 'They don't want to be looked at as old, with our women's hair tied up in buns and wearing gingham.'

Pictured: Mike Schultz (left) said he loves the new design but Jeff Shoell (right) said it was dumbing down society

Jeff Shoell, a GOP state delegate, said new-flag proponents 'want to have a version a kid can draw.

'Talk about dumbing down our society.'

While Utah resident Scott Vandenhazel said: 'We don't need the woke design.'

Meanwhile, Republican Representative John Curtis says he plans to fly both the old flag and the new one outside his office.

Brandon Beckham, a member of the Utah Republican party state central committee, said the design is just 'a logo'.

According to the WSJ, a political-action committee dubbed Are You Listening To Us Yet? has until next February to submit 134,298 signatures, to fight the design.

The new flag has been met with rave reviews by vexillologists, those who study flags.

Ted Kaye, a flag scholar, said: 'We jokingly call those SOB flagsthats a seal on a bedsheet.'

Kaye said that the old Utah flag, which was changed 12 years ago to fix a mistake, wasn't simple or distinctive enough.

In a reader's letter to the Salt Lake Tribune, local man John Middleton said: 'Even if it wasnt my first choice, the new flag is a definite improvement on the old one.

'Only time will tell if Utahans adopt this flag as enthusiastically as the citizens of the other four corner states have for their flags with colorful, graphic designs.'

In total, the Utah government received more than 1,000 submissions of ideas for flags during the public submission phase.
In January he oversaw the $7.7 million sale of a set of Lincoln pennies

A rare coin expert has revealed the most valuable pieces he has ever sold at auction - including a $12million silver dollar and a set of Lincoln pennies which fetched $7.7 million.

Ian Russell, president of California-based auction site GreatCollections, developed an interest in rare currencies in his teens and now typically sells up to 5,000 coins a week.

Yet even he says he was most astonished by the Lincoln set sale which was auctioned by the estate of coin enthusiast Stewart Blay after his death, aged 77.

Prior to the bid, a single Lincoln Cent had never broken the million-dollar sale mark.

But Blay's extensive collection included a 1958 Double Die - the finest of only three known in the world - which realized $1.136 million.

Ian Russell, president of California-based coin auction house GreatCollections, has revealed the coins most likely to fetch the biggest sums

A collection of Lincoln cents, pictured, sold for $7.7 million in a record-breaking auction overseen by GreatCollections

'That sale blew every record out of the park,' Russell told Dailymail.com.

'The owners had developed a unique interest in the Lincoln cent and became an expert in them. He spent his life hunting down the finest ones.'

A double die - which became famous after the 1955 issue - refers to a coin that has a double image on part or all of its design.

It occurs when a coin was not manufactured correctly, resulting in an accidental doubling of imagery.

A further 13 Lincoln Cents from Blay's collection realized over $100,000 back in January.

Blay, a sculptor from New York, travelled the world visiting coin shops during his hunt for the very best Lincoln cents.

He never revealed the extent of his lucrative collection to his family - who were blindsided by the sale.

Russell said: 'He made one hint to his sister just before he died.

The 1958 double die, left, is the first Lincoln Cent to ever break the million-dollar barrier when it sold at auction in January. A further 13 Lincoln Cents from Blay's collection realized over $100,000

Last year GreatCollections sold what was thought to be the first ever silver dollar to be struck by the United States mint for $12 million, pictured

'She mentioned a story she had heard selling for a lot of money and he just said 'that's not very much for a coin these days.

'She didn't think anything of it until his collection sold.'

Russell added that it was not rare for coins to sell for over $1 million now.

Last year, his auction house sold what was thought to be the first ever silver dollar to be struck by the United States mint for $12 million.

And in 2021 GreatCollections bought three coins for a record-breaking $13.35 million.

The set included a 1913 Liberty Head Nickel. It received a PCGS grading of 66.

PCGS is a certified coin grading scale which ranges from 1 to 70. It was also verified by Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) - a third-party grading service founded in 2007.

The collection was completed by an 1894 S Proof Barber Dime - graded PCGS Proof-65+ and also CAC verified - and an 1804 Silver Dollar graded PCGS Proof-65.

In general coins with missing aspects or extra detail fetch the biggest values.

Russell said his auction house deals with a range of clients - from experienced coin collectors to novices who just found pieces in their house and assume they aren't worth very much.

He adds that the number of women collectors shot up during the pandemic.

'The coin collecting community was always 99.5 percent male.

'But since Covid we've seen lots of husbands getting their wives involve. I think because they were spending more time at home together.

'Now women make up about 5 to 6 percent of the community which still isn't very much but it's a lot more than we've seen previously.'
Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell discussed causing pain to children and 'giving them a reason to scream' in chilling texts before her kids were killed, the cult mom's trial heard Monday.

FBI agent Doug Hart seized iCloud accounts belonging to Vallow which showed she texted Daybell about her niece's children being possessed in July, 2019.

In another exchange, Daybell - the alleged leader of their doomsday cult - told her he had 'turned up the pain' on her daughter Tylee and 'placed a spiritual virus in her.'

Vallow, 49, and Daybell, 54, are accused of murdering her kids JJ, seven, and Tylee, 16, in September 2019. The following month they allegedly killed his wife Tammy. The pair married two weeks later on the beach in Hawaii.

The State alleges that they believed the three victims were possessed by 'dark' spirits and referred to them as 'zombies.'

Lori Vallow (pictured at an earlier court hearing) and Chad Daybell discussed causing pain to children in chilling texts revealed in court on Monday, with one declaring that they would 'give them a reason to scream' if they act up

Tylee, 16, and JJ, seven, are shown with their uncle, Alex Cox, in what is believed to be the final photo of them, taken during a family trip to Yellowstone National Park on September 8, 2019

In July 2019, Vallow took a trip with her niece Melanie Boudreaux and her two children who Daybell referred to '3s' in the texts. Her son JJ was also on the trip, but it is not known if Tylee was there. The '3s' refers to the couple's twisted rating system for 'dark' people they believed were possessed.

Daybell had sent a text to Vallow asking if she wanted him to 'cause pain' to the two 3s she was riding with.

Vallow told Daybell to hold off, but added if they started acting up again, 'we can zap them.' Daybell agreed and said: 'If they are going to act up, we'll at least give them a reason to scream.'

Hart told the Ada County Courthouse in Boise that the 'references to hurting children and giving them a reason to scream are relevant.' He confirmed that he never saw any messages that depicted Vallow protesting the harm of anyone.

Hart, who took the stand last week, has told jurors that messages between the pair show that they were plotting the killings of her then-husband Charles Vallow, her kids, and Daybell's wife.

Vallow is facing a separate trial over the killing of her estranged husband Charles who was shot dead by her brother in Arizona in July, 2019.

On July 29, Daybell texted Vallow while she was on the trip with Boudreaux.

'One question: Do you want me to cause pain yet to those two 3s you're riding with?'

Vallow responded: 'Probably hold off on then till we arrive. This will be mistake to deal with. But I'll text you if they start acting up and we can zap them. Miserable not mistake.'

Daybell replied: 'Sounds great. Yes if they are going to act up, we'll at least give them a reason to scream. I love, cherish, treasure and adore you. The wonderful memories just keep coming back. you are mesmerizing. Raphael is one lucky guy.'

Hart said that JJ was present in the car, but said he was not sure if Tylee was there.

Just a few days prior to the trip, Vallow had sent a text to Daybell talking about 'weird stuff happening in the middle of the night' and that Tylee had been acting weird.

Dr Garth Warren revealed for the first time how JJ's cause of death was 'asphyxia by plastic bag over the head and duct tape over the mouth.' The coroner suggested the boy had scratched his own neck as he struggled to break free

On July 23, 2019, Vallow texted: 'Good morning. Missing you. Didn't sleep much. Need you to check jj. Weird stuff happened in the middle of the night. It's like they distracted us with Blake.'

She added: 'When you get home, Check Tylee. She is being super sweet and helpful and she cleaned her room. See if she got switched. Totally not her.'

Daybell responded: 'Yes. she was switched. Please let me know when you can talk, and I will explain it.'

On July 26, Vallow sent a text asking Daybell to check on JJ.

'She said he was calm and he watched movies all day which he would never do.'

Daybell responded to her: 'It is still JJ. I'm told she is lying about him being calm and watching movies.'

Vallow responded: 'Mel knew. She called me. She felt the real Brighton last night and knew she was different. She was told I didn't want to tell her. She is taking it well and knows it is part of a big plan. She is amazing! Although I'm still pretty upset about it, I love you. Missing your kisses.'

Brighton is one of Boudreaux's child.

There are also texts that revealed how the pair created a twisted percentage scale to show how close her kids were to death.

Hart said that the closer the number is to 100 or zero, the closer they are to death. According to the scale, both children were very close.

In texts sent between July and August, JJ was at 99.99. Tylee was at 0.13.

One of the texts refers to causing Tylee pain.

Chad Daybell enters the courtroom during his preliminary hearing in St. Anthony, Idaho, on Monday, August 3, 2020. He is being tried separately

The key individuals in Lori Vallow's tangled family tree, including her five husbands, two dead children and killer brother

On July 18, Daybell texted Vallow: 'I have been instructed to focus my efforts on Hillary, so I will.'

Hillary is the name they call the spirit they claim possessed Tylee.

Vallow responded to Daybell: 'Ok. Find out her percentage for me and JJ.'

Daybell to Vallow: 'She is at a 0.13. I turned up the pain to 10 and placed a spiritual virus in her. He is at 99.99. Raphael visited him and told him to follow Amy into the light. I also assured him that James would love and take care of his mommy, which he will with all of his heart and soul.'

Vallow to Daybell: 'That is sweet! I miss you desperately.'

On July 30, Daybell texted Vallow to let her know the death percentages had changed.

'I got the inspiration to go back to my original death percentages that helped us track Charles, Ned, etc. Tammy is very close. Her percentage has fallen steadily since Hiplos left. It is encouraging!'

Vallow responded with two questions: 'What s the percentage now? what about jjs too?'

Daybell replied to her that, 'Tammy is at 3. JJ is at 2.' 'Both are being heavily shielded to stop intruders,' he added.

Vallow asked: '2 and 3 percent? Not zero?' Daybell said he would explain later and she responded: 'Ok. Still feeling hot for you.'

'Yes, we might need to release a little steam next time we meet,' Daybell said in a cringy text.

He continued: 'Anyway, this is the chart that checks what percentage mortals are still in their body. It worked for my friend's wife who died, my neighbor, George Bush, Stan Lee, etc. I kind of forgot about it because we've been dealing with zombies and demonic entities. But this afternoon Tammy said she felt lightheaded, as if her body and spirit weren't connected.'

By August 10, a text exchange referred to 'orchestrated plan to take the children,' Hart said.

'You are doing everything right my love,' Daybell texted Vallow when she asked if there was anything she could do to help. He added the Lord told him that they are 'right on track.'

Daybell also said in a text that he could sense JJ 'was barely attached to his body.'

An Instagram post from Tylee with her mom dated May 14, 2017, when she was 14 years old

Last week, it was revealed that Vallow, 49, and Daybell, 54, also engaged in toe-curling sexting sessions about showering together and 'naked activities' during their affair which started shortly after they met at a doomsday conference in late 2018.

The State says Vallow wanted 'money, power, sex' and that she also used 'those things to get what she wanted.' Vallow, who faces life in prison if convicted, denies the charges against her. Daybell is being tried separately.

FBI agent Hart told the Ada County Courthouse in Boise that he seized two iCloud accounts belonging to Vallow under the usernames lori4style and lollytime.

He pored through her data from the point after she met Daybell at a Preparing a People conference in St. George, Utah, on October 26, 2018.
Prince Harry complained he was fed up as he prepared to watch his fathers Coronation, it was claimed today.

A lip reader said the Kings youngest son moaned Im fed up with the way they treat me as he took his position in the third row at Westminster Abbey.

The Duke of Sussex was speaking to his cousin Princess Eugenies husband Jack Brooksbank, during his brief trip to Britain for the Coronation.

Harry, 38, was sitting between Mr Brooksbank and Princess Alexandra, a first cousin of the late Queen, and behind Princess Anne and her husband Sir Timothy Laurence.

It was not clear who was the target of his fed up complaint, although there has been speculation he could have been speaking about the Royal Family, following ongoing tensions over his decision to quit as a working royal and publish a highly critical memoir.

Prince Harry was spotted chatting to Jack Brooksbank as he entered the Abbey; lip reader Jacqui Press told MailOnline the pair had a light-hearted conversation

Upon arriving at the Abbey, the Duke of Sussex chatted with Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Princess Beatrice's husband

He may also have been speaking about the media as he is currently embroiled in High Court legal action against several newspaper publishers, including the Daily Mail and The Mail on Sunday.

Lip reader Jeremy Freeman told The Sun newspaper that Harry remarked: Im fed up with the way they treat me and later commented: Its not an ideal situation.

Mr Brooksbank apparently replied: If I can make you feel any better, and even I can do it. Its not the quiet life, is it.

Harry appeared to shake his head before responding: They dont care.

Princess Eugenies husband said: I havent time for that, not if its over...

Harry added: Its an eventuality.

The duke, who remains fifth in line to the throne, could be seen joining the homage to his father during the service, saying: God save King Charles. Long live King Charles. May the King live for ever.

Lip readers also spotted Harry telling Mr Brooksbank he was due on a flight later that afternoon, and he left within minutes of the service ending.

Harry has remained closest to Eugenie and her husband following the acrimony over his decision with wife Meghan to quit as working royals.

His relationships with his older brother the Prince of Wales and his father the King have come under unprecedented strain following the publication of his highly critical memoir, Spare.

Harrys appearance at Westminster Abbey followed months of speculation over whether he and Meghan would attend, amid ongoing tensions with senior royals.

The Duchess of Sussex chose to remain at their 11million home in Montecito, California, with their two young children Archie and Lilibet.

Prince Harry jetted into the UK on Friday morning and received a warm welcome from members of the royal family outside Westminster Abbey today

The Duke of Sussex was seated between Princess Eugenie's husband Jack Brooksbank and Princess Alexandra, the cousin of the late Queen who has not worked as a royal for ten years

Their son Archie celebrated his fourth birthday on Saturday and Harry left Britain immediately after the Coronation service to fly back to the US.

He had spent less than 29 hours in Britain after flying in on Friday morning.

But the Mail told today how Charles raised a glass to Prince Archies birthday at a private family gathering following the Coronation.

The King toasted Williams three children George, Charlotte and Louis, who all attended the service in the Abbey.

He then made a point of toasting those that werent there and wishing his other grandson a very happy birthday wherever he was, a source told the Mail.
Raging New York state officials have slammed NYC Mayor Eric Adams for 'ambushing' them with his plan to send hundreds of migrants to their towns.

Orange and Rockland County in upstate New York have been left in uproar over Adams' plans to spread the migrant crisis, saying their main concern is 'public safety.'

Republican Ed Day, the County Executive of Rockland, said he wants to 'grab Adams by the throat' for his decision to bus people out of the Big Apple as Title 42 is set to end on Thursday.

Rockland has issued a state of emergency, which means that migrants traveling to the cities in the area will be banned from housing migrants  with Day threatening to fine hotels $2,000 per day per migrant.

Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny told Fox and Friends that she was not consulted over the move, with Adams describing it as a 'preliminary plan'.

Republican Ed Day (right) , the County Executive of Rockland, said he wants to 'grab Adams by the throat' for his decision. Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny (left) said she felt 'ambushed'

Rockland has issued a state of emergency, which means that migrants traveling to the cities in the area will be banned from housing migrants  with Day threatening to fine hotels $2,000 per day per migrant

She said: 'Our concern is public safety. We don't know if there have been background checks on these people.

'Anyone who's been around for a long time knows we had a very sad incident where someone was killed by an immigrant.

'I'm not saying I think all immigrants are criminals  it just takes one, and we're not getting any answers.

'Our town code says a hotel to be used for transient purposes for up to 30 days. - they're making this a city shelter in one of our hotels.

'We have served them with a violation. We are prepared to go to court. I'm sorry, Mr. Mayor, you do not get to trump our local codes. This is a hotel. It's not a city shelter.'

Officials in Orangetown also discovered hundreds of beds outside of the Armoni Inn and Suites on Sunday, alongside stockpiles of shirts, Covid-19 tests and medicine.

The hotel, which is $93 a night and boasts a fitness center and outdoor pool, is expected to house least 340 adult male migrants for four months while they are integrated into the community.

Rockland, which did not declare itself a sanctuary city, will see more than 300 migrants housed in the Crossroads Hotel  which costs $184 a night and also boasts an outdoor pool.

New York City has reportedly taken in over 60,000 migrants over the last year, with more than half of those houses at the 122 city-run shelters that have been set up to handle the influx

Rockland, which did not declare itself a sanctuary city, will see more than 300 migrants housed in the Crossroads Hotel  which costs $184 a night and also boasts an outdoor pool

New York City issued its own state of emergency in October, to get federal resources to help with the growing migrant population

New York City issued its own state of emergency in October, to get federal resources to help with the growing migrant population.

Rockland is the first county in the state outside of New York City to issue a similar order. It is thought that the buses could arrive as soon as Saturday or Sunday.

Day, who worked as a Commanding officer for the NYPD in the Bronx, retiring in 2000, also earned 40 citations for meritorious and conspicuous actions in the line of duty.

Day said: 'Rockland is not going to stand idly by as your administration which boasts itself as a sanctuary city diverts busloads of undocumented individuals to our county,

'This is a duplicitous plan and everybody involved in it should be utterly ashamed of themselves.

'Right now, our state of emergency is in effect. We have law enforcement deployed in various areas of the county, ready to react to anything that comes up to this county.

'For starters, we are establishing a licensing requirement for all hotels. If these hotels are not licensed and approved by my office, they cannot function and operate.

'It's a $2,000-per-day, per-immigrant fine. That's almost $68,000 daily that we will levy.'

Officials in Orangetown also discovered hundreds of beds outside of the Armoni Inn and Suites on Sunday, alongside stockpiles of shirts, Covid-19 tests and medicine

It comes after a five-page draft memo was revealed on Friday, with officials outlining possible solutions for the influx of migrants expected following the end of Title 42

New York City officials are expecting at least 800 asylum seekers to arrive daily, with five buses arriving on Friday from Texas carrying men, women and children

Texas Governor Gregg Abbott has been bussing migrants from the state to 'sanctuary cities' since last year

'This is not about immigrants and about children and about being kind or being good. There is a legitimate process to do that.'

He has threatened to use court procedures and local police to stop the buses from getting to the cities.

Day ranted that Adams just said: 'Screw you Rockland County', and did not ask for an opinion on sending the migrants to the area.

He branded Adams as a 'bully' who believes 'we're just going to roll over', before adding that he would not get away with it and 'you picked the wrong person to fight with.'

The executive said during a radio interview, Day said: 'Mr. Adams, you can try to run us over, [and] I will reach up and grab you by the throat for the people of Rockland County.

'Within that cadre of people who are coming here, who are not vetted, we have child rapists, we have criminals, we have MS-13. There's a reason why there's a process.'

New York City has reportedly taken in over 60,000 migrants over the last year, with more than half of those houses at the 122 city-run shelters that have been set up to handle the influx.

In a statement Adams said: 'This new, voluntary program will provide asylum seekers with temporary housing, access to services, and connections to local communities as they build a stable life in New York state.'

Currently they are being housed in a former police academy, which was previously used as a training facility in New York City

While announcing the new plans, Adams said the city is only getting $30 million in FEMA funding out of the $350 million in total funds it applied for

Rockland is the first county in the state outside of New York City to issue a similar order. It is thought that the buses could arrive as soon as Saturday or Sunday

He is continuing to demand more help from the federal government to assist with asylum seekers.

While announcing the new plans, Adams said the city is only getting $30 million in FEMA funding out of the $350 million in total funds it applied for.

A statement from City Hall confirmed that the city would ship 'up to 300 people' upstate, with the migrants having the choice of whether to be relocated voluntarily.

Officials also said the city would foot the bill for four months of shelter at the upstate hotels, along with meals, health care, laundry and other living expenses.

It comes after a five-page draft memo was revealed on Friday, with officials outlining possible solutions for the influx of migrants expected following the end of Title 42.

New York City officials are expecting at least 800 asylum seekers to arrive daily, with five buses arriving on Friday from Texas carrying men, women and children.

Currently they are being housed in a former police academy, which was previously used as a training facility.

Options outlined in the documents include gyms at local colleges, public schools once classes are out, tents in public parks like Central Park and Prospect Park and parking lots at Citi Field and the Aqueduct Racetrack.

Erecting tents on Randall's Island and using cruise ships to house migrants are again being discussed, as is a proposal to erect 'temporary housing in containers or tiny homes.'

Another proposal included a plan to retrofit unused airplane hangars at John F. Kennedy Airport.
Comes as pandemic-era expulsion policy Title 42 is set to expire on Thursday  and is predicted will lead to 13,000 crossings per day up from the 7,700 now

Border crossings are already spiking in the days leading up to the end of Title 42 with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehending more than 26,000 migrants in just 72 hours.

The last three days saw an average of 8,794 migrant apprehensions per day, according to figures released by CBP Chief Raul Ortiz.

This is a staggering unprecedented figure that is only expected to grow in coming days with Title 42 set to expire on Thursday.

Currently, the average number of migrants crossing the southern border each day is 7,700. But the Biden administration estimates that the number could increase to 13,000 every day once Title 42 is no longer in use. Other external estimates have put that number even higher.

Smugglers are encouraging migrants to head for the border.

Customs and Border Protection apprehended 26,382 migrants in the last 72 hours - a staggering unprecedented average of 8,794 per day

They claim the end of Title 42 will make it easier to cross  even though the Biden administration wants to enact tough rules to speed up deportations and ban re-entry for illegal crossers for up to five years.

The health-related immigration policy was first enacted at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 by then-President Donald Trump. Title 42 allowed immigration and border authorities to immediately expel migrants without hearing their asylum claims during the declared health emergency.

In preparation for massive surges at the border come Thursday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott deployed on Monday the newly formed Tactical Border Force along with the National Guard already in place. In addition, 1,500 active-duty troops were deployed last week by President Joe Biden and expected to be on the border to assist law enforcement by May 10.

Chief Ortiz revealed in a tweet Monday that in the last 72 hours CBP has been able to identify 7,399 'gotaways' and seize 329 pounds of various drugs, including fentanyl, meth and heroin.

He also noted that they apprehended one felon, one gang member and three sex offenders over the weekend.

The elite Texas National Guard's Tactical Border Force is deploying Monday in preparation for Title 42 to end on Thursday as the state with the most miles of southern border braces for 13,000 migrant crossings per day once the pandemic-era policy expires.

Meanwhile, images emerged with thousands of migrants lining up on the southern side of the U.S.-Mexico border, waiting in anticipation for Title 42 to end on May 11.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is deploying the newly formed Texas Tactical Border Force Monday to help manage 'hot spots' at the southern border with the impending end of Title 42

As Title 42 is set to expire Thursday, May 11, migrants are lining up at the southern border to immediately cross into the U.S. once the policy is no longer in use. Pictured: Hundreds of migrants arrived in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico on Sunday, May 7 to cross the border into El Paso, Texas

'The Biden administration has been a disaster, they ripped apart policies that led to lowest illegal border crossings in decades,' Abbott told Fox & Friends on Monday morning.

He went on: 'We are deploying today a new Texas Tactical Border Force made up of elite National Guard who are trained for one thing, and that is to identify areas where illegal immigrants are trying to cross the border and fill that gap and repel them to deny them access to enter into the United States.'

'They can do it one of several ways  physically turn back those who are trying to come over illegally, and they are building immediate wire border barriers that prevent people from coming across the border,' the Texas governor continued. 'And you saw early iteration of this when you saw long lines of people in El Paso in 24 hours.'

Abbott insists that a border barrier needs to be completed to 'immediately' stop in-flow of migrants.

Title 42 was first passed in 1944 and was enacted by then-President Donald Trump in 2020 at the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

The policy allows immigration and border officials to immediately expel migrants without hearing their asylum claims during a public health emergency. Specifically, the original law intends to stop entry of those able to bypass health screenings by crossing illegally.

Some reports indicate that there are between 700,000 and 1 million migrants that could cross in the days following the end of the pandemic-era expulsion policy.

Abbott noted Monday morning that his state is pressing onward to 'very quickly build as many barriers as possible to turn back as many people as possible.'

Texas National Guard soldiers have already been manning the border for the last few years, but the military presence will now be even more prominent as it's all-hands-on-deck for the end of Title 42.

Gov. Abbott shakes the hands of members of the Texas National Guard on Monday, May 8 in Austin, Texas as they prepare to deploy to the southern border to provide assistance with the end of Title 42 in just three days

Thousands of migrants have made the dangerous trek to the U.S. southern border over the last several years by hopping onto moving trains

'We are deploying today a new Texas Tactical Border Force made up of elite National Guard who are trained for one thing, and that is to identify areas where illegal immigrants are trying to cross the border and fill that gap and repel them to deny them access to enter into the United States,' Abbott told Fox & Friends on Monday morning

Illegal immigration and unlawful border crossings have reached an all-time high under the leadership of President Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

'So as you all, and everybody knows, what Mayorkas has said  he said the border is closed,' Abbott said of his talks with the DHS head.

'So, yeah, I've talked to Mayorkas a couple of times. And every time I've talked to him, he continues to have his head in the sand. He's either lying or really doesn't know what's going on, because the border is not closed.'

He added: 'They're doing nothing to stop it and all of the policies that the Biden administration tried to put in place are just going to entice more people to come across the border.'

Independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who also represents a border state in Arizona, said Sunday that she has nearly no communication with Mayorkas.
A mother who claims her newborn was decapitated in an emergency C-section in Brazil has said medics tried sewing up the girl's lacerated neck.

Ranielly Santos, 34, and her husband, Victor da Silva, said their baby's heart was beating before the physician, whose name has not been released, removed their daughter from the womb during the May 1 procedure.

'I was treated like an animal,' Santos told Brazilian news outlet R7.

Doctors attempted to stop Santos' mother removing a cover over Emanuelly's tiny body before she discovered that her neck had multiple stitches and marks.

'My mother saw the whole procedure. She opened the outfit, but they tried to stop my mother from opening the outfit, that's when we saw that her neck was sewn, full of marks.'

Victor da Silva (left) and his wife, Ranielly Santos (right), are seeking justice from a Brazilian hospital after a doctor jumped on top of her and accidentally decapitated her newborn daughter during a C-section delivery on May 1

Ranielly Santos says doctors at Hospital das Clinicas treated her like 'an animal' during the delivery of her daughter, Emanuelly, which ended with the newborn's head being 'ripped off' by one of the doctors

Santos, who was seven months pregnant, was admitted to Hospital das Clinicas in Belo Horizonte on April 24 due to high blood pressure and went into induced labor a week later.

Da Silva recalled seeing his daughter, Emanuelly, blinking her eyes just moments before he watched how the doctor decapitated her.

'By the time they pulled her, out she blinked, she was moving,' he said. 'Her little heart, before leaving, was beating.'

Da Silva said the doctors were pulling Emanuelly's head and instructed Santos to push.

'But she had no more strength,' he said. 'At the last moment they did that, a bunch of people came on top of her, held, held me. (They placed) a general anesthesia on her, she fainted, the child left (died), she was already fainting.'

According to the family, the doctor reportedly climbed on Santos' body before they 'ripped off the child's head.'

Santos, who has a nine-year-old daughter, revealed that Emanuelly was at-risk of surviving the birth because of a lung malformation that was caused by cysts that were discovered during a test.

Administrators at Hospital da Clinicas is looking into the May 1 C-section delivery that ended with a newborn's head being ripped off by one of the doctors

'I am devastated. Every day, I cry. I cannot sleep,' she said. 'Every day I think about my daughter. I wanted her anyway. I knew she had little chance of life, but I wanted her.'

The couple confirmed that the hospital apologized for the botched delivery and offered to cover the funeral expenses.

They alleged that hospital also offered to provide a report from the medical examiner, but they chose to go to the police.

Family attorney Jennifer Valente said she is hopeful that the police investigation will show that the doctor made several mistakes while delivering the baby.

'She (Santos) said she was in a lot of pain,' Valente said. 'The doctor, in desperation, told her 'can I cut you?'. She took the instrument and cut her on both sides, without anesthesia, without anything. She has more than 60 stitches.'

The hospital issued a statement indicating it was looking into the incident.

'The Hospital das Clinicas (HC) da UFMG, administered by the Empresa Brasileira de Servicos Hospitalares (EBSERH), deeply regrets the fact and sympathizes with the family at this time of mourning,' the statement read. 'HC and EBSERH are making every effort to for fact-finding and analysis of the case and support for the family.'
With the working class facing an onslaught of attacks on pay, conditions, and services, the garish carnival of the coronation is being met with apathy and revulsion. Socialist Appeal stands for the total abolition of the monarchy, and for a socialist republic of Britain!

In the run up to the coronation, the loyal subjects of the United Kingdom have been faced with a bombardment of pro-monarchy propaganda.

Whether its the fawning panegyrics praising our new King; the tatty Union Jack bunting that adorns high streets across the nation; or the exciting new recipe for coronation lamb rolls: theres no escape from this royal cacophony.

And the worst part? The entire spectacle is a load of bunkum! King Charles officially became the head of state the second that his mother, dear old Lizzy, croaked it. So whats the point of all this fuss?

Garish carnival

The pomp and ceremony surrounding the monarchy is clearly a colossal waste of public money. But it is more pernicious than that.

In the eyes of the establishment, this pageantry is supposed to provide a mystical, dignified aspect to the workings of the British state; an attempt to sanctify the sordid reality of our fine, upstanding democracy.

Maybe 150 years ago  when many of these so-called ancient traditions were first brought into being  the circus of the Crown might have provided some with a pleasant distraction from the drudgery of life under capitalism.

Nowadays, however, such theatrics offer diminishing returns. With the working class facing an onslaught of attacks on pay, conditions, and services, this garish carnival and nauseating flag-waving is being met with apathy and revulsion by the majority of workers and youth.

Monarchy in crisis

The monarchy itself has been mired in crisis for some time now / Image: Socialist Appeal

The monarchy itself has been mired in crisis for some time now. Whether its the degeneracy of the Paedophile Prince; the petty mudslinging between Harry and Will; or the revelations of racism at the heart of The Firm: each year brings fresh stories of scandal and sleaze.

Far from exuding an air of magic and mystique, the dirty underbelly of the House of Windsor is out in the open, for everyone to see.

No wonder that more than half of Britons think that the coronation shouldnt be publicly funded. Nor that, when asked if they would be reciting the new pledge of loyalty to the King during the coronation ceremony, 86.5% of respondents to a Good Morning Britain poll answered no!

Approval of the Royal Family is at an all-time low, and will continue to plummet. The same can be said for the other crumbling pillars of the British establishment, including the Church and the police.

Reserve weapon

This is a serious problem for the ruling class. The monarchy is more than just an expensive relic  it is a key pillar of the British establishment; a reserve weapon of reaction that will be called upon when the class struggle reaches boiling point.

In essence, the monarchy is an insurance policy for the ruling class in case things go badly wrong, and the class struggle cant be confined within the limits of ordinary parliamentary democracy.

All of the key levers of the state  the armed forces, the police, the courts, and so on  swear an oath of loyalty to the Crown. The King is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.

The Crown has the power to suspend parliament, as we saw with the prorogation of parliament back in 2019. It even has the power to suspend laws altogether, and rule through the unelected Privy Council.

All of this demonstrates that the Crown is the perfect mechanism through which the ruling class could employ the methods of a naked military-police dictatorship.

It is true that these powers would only be brought into play in a last ditch attempt to save capitalism. But we must be under no illusions that our democratic rulers would stop short of attempting to use this tool of counter-revolution, when backed into a corner by the working class.

Abolish the monarchy!

We hope that Charles III will be lying awake at night, thinking about the fate of his namesake predecessor, Charles I / Image: public domain

It is for this reason, above all, that Marxists fight for the total abolition of the monarchy, the House of Lords, and every other feudal hangover. We fight for a socialist republic, and for the expropriation of these royal parasites.

So this coronation, we hope that Charles III will be lying awake at night, thinking about the fate of his namesake predecessor, Charles I  the king who lost his head during the heady days of the English Revolution.

Wed like to remind His Majesty that a revolutionary republic has blessed these shores once before. We must organise and fight to ensure that this coronation is the last.

Down with the King! Down with capitalism! For a socialist republic of Britain!
The California woman suing Subway for claiming its tuna products contain ingredients other than tuna wants to end her lawsuit because she is pregnant, prompting Subway to demand her lawyers be sanctioned for bringing a frivolous case.

Nilima Amin said her 'severe' morning sickness and 'debilitating' conditions as she prepares for a third child have left her 'unable to proceed with the obligations as plaintiff,' and require her to focus on her health and family.

Amin wants to dismiss the case in San Francisco federal court without prejudice, which would let her sue again when she feels better.

In a May 4 filing in response, Subway said Amin's excuse flunked the 'straight-face' test, and her lawyers likely realized it would not 'simply pay the windfall settlement that they hoped to get by constructing a high-profile shakedown.'

The lawsuit made headlines in 2021 when Amin claimed she'd conducted tests on the chain's tuna salad and found it was 'made from anything but tuna,' but instead a composite of other ingredients intended to imitate the fish. Subway vehemently denied the claims, telling DailyMail.com at the time they were 'meritless' and there was 'simply no truth' to them.

Subway is demanding that Amin's suit be dismissed and that her lawyers pay their legal fees

In its latest filing, Subway also said the 'media frenzy' from the lawsuit caused severe harm, and faulted Amin's 'ever-changing' theories to debunk its claim that its tuna sandwiches, salads and wraps contained '100% tuna.'

The chain wants Amin's proposed class action dismissed, and her seven lawyers to pay at least $618,000 of its legal bills.

Amin's lawyers did not immediately respond on Monday to requests for comment.

The plaintiff claimed to have ordered Subway tuna products more than 100 times before suing in January 2021.

She accused Subway of using other fish species, chicken, pork and cattle in its tuna products, or no tuna at all.

But the plaintiffs later dialed back their claims, saying in a later filing they simply couldn't determine whether the tuna in Subway's salad was '100% sustainably caught skipjack and yellowfin tuna,' according to the New York Times.

Last July, U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar in San Francisco let Amin's case continue but rejected her claim that 'reasonable consumers' would expect only tuna and nothing else, calling it a 'fact of life' that ingredients such as mayonnaise were okay.

Subway has nearly 37,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries.

A Subway chicken salad sandwich. Amin initially claimed her tests showed they had no tuna

In the initial lawsuit, Amin wanted her claim certified as a class action, which would have allowed thousands of other potentially dissatisfied customers to join in the legal action.

Anyone wishing to join the lawsuit would have had to purchase a tuna sandwich or tuna wrap sometime after January 21, 2017.

Amin, along with a co-plaintiff who helped with the testing Karen Dhanowa, sued Subway for fraud, intentional misrepresentation, unjust enrichment, and other civil violations.

They claimed they 'were tricked into buying food items that wholly lacked the ingredients they reasonably thought they were purchasing' based on Subway's advertising and marketing of the product.

Their attorney, Shalini Dogra, told the Washington Post 'We found that the ingredients were not tuna and not fish.'

Dhanowa and Amin alleged Subway 'is saving substantial sums of money in manufacturing the products because the fabricated ingredient they use in the place of tuna costs less money.'

They claimed they were being cheated out of the health benefits they thought they were getting by buying tuna sandwiches. The lawsuit sought unspecified damages as well as attorneys' fees.
Anti-gun protestors gathered at the Texas State Capitol in Austin on Monday after a gunman killed eight people, including children, at an outlet mall over the weekend.

Those attending the protest brandished signs with slogans like, 'Texas Mass shooting did that.' Others bore the face of past mass shooting victims, including the 19 children and two teachers who were killed nearly one year ago at the Uvalde mass shooting.

Dozens of protestors gathered in the lobby of the Texas Capitol and chanted 'raise the age,' referring to a bill before the Texas House that would raise the required age to buy semi-automatic rifles in the Lone Star state.

In a surprise move Monday, the bill advanced past a Texas House committee hours before a key legislative deadline.

Protestors gather at the Texas State Capitol on Monday to advocate for tighter gun restrictions in the Lone Star state after a gunman killed eight people at an outlet mall on Saturday

In a surprise move Monday, a bill that would raise the required age of an individual seeking to purchase a semi-automatic rifle advanced past a Texas House committee hours before a key legislative deadline

The bill will face an uphill battle in the Legislature to become state law, but the vote marked a milestone for the proposal that was generated and advocated for by relatives of the Uvalde shooting victims.

The House committee voted 8-5 to send the bill to the floor, with two Republican state representatives joining with their Democratic colleagues on the House Community Safety Select Committee to vote for its advancement.

Monday is the last day this session that House bills can be voted out of committee in the legislature's lower chamber.

The legislative deadline comes just two days after a gunman in Allen - a suburb of about 100,000 outside of Dallas - killed eight shoppers at an outlet mall with an AR-15-style rifle, the same sort used by the gunman in Uvalde.

Because the gunman in Allen - now identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia - was outside of the age range that the new law would potentially apply to, it is unlikely that it would have prevented him from purchasing such a weapon. The proposed law would increase the age to buy a semiautomatic weapon from 18 to 21.

Garcia is reported to have been a security guard who was removed from the Army in 2008 over mental health concerns.

A neo-Nazi, he was living in a Budget Inn in Texas, killed eight people and injured five others outside the H&M store at Allen Premium Outlets in Texas on Saturday afternoon.

A police officer who was at the scene responding to another call shot Garcia dead when he heard the shots.

While his motive remains unconfirmed, law enforcement sources say now-deleted social media pages show he shared sympathies with neo-Nazis.

Some protestors held signs with the victims of the Uvalde shooting on them

Protestors, several of whom were relatives of Uvalde victims, gathered in the lobby of the Texas State Capitol Monday to call for gun law reform

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

Glass is seen shattered across the sidewalk in front of one of the fashion stores in Allen, where the mass shooting took place just after 3pm on Saturday, May 6

Police and FBI searching the house on Saturday night

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

The US Army has not provided anymore information about his reported discharge. Neighbors say they believe Garcia was working as a security guard but it's unclear if he held a job in the mall or at another location.

According to the Washington Post, a patch the gunman was wearing on his chest alluded to his extremist ideologies. The patch read 'RWDS' which is an acronym for 'Right Wing Death Squads.'

The FBI and police raided dead Garcia's Dallas home just one hour after the massacre and requested a translator to speak with his family.

Neighbors say they often saw Garcia wearing a security guard-type uniform, but he was 'very quiet' and had 'very unusual behavior.'

His gray Dodge Charger, which was seen at the scene, was often parked outside the home.

Dashcam video showed Garcia, clad in full tactical gear, getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

After the mass shooting - the 199th of the year in America - Texas Governor Greg Abbott doubled down on his and his party's position on firearm regulation.

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

Abbott told Fox News on Sunday: 'We need to recognize the reality we've seen across the United States over the last year or two, and that is an increased number of shootings in both red states and blue states.'

'We've seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws, as well as states with very strict gun laws. I think that the state in which the largest number of victims occurred this year is in California, where they have very tough gun laws,' he said.

The governor has said that the age restriction law that passed out of committee today would be unconstitutional, if passed by the legislature.
Title 8 of Immigration Law will now be in force

Biden unsuccessfully tried to end Title 42 twice in the last year

The Biden administration plans to revert to an even earlier foundation of immigration policy when the Trump-era Title 42 authority runs out this week.

For many of the migrants who have crossed the border and hope to make asylum claims, they will face increased hurdles  and face potential increased penalties if the government determines their claims aren't legitimate.

Just how the processing and paperwork will go forward for the for the number of migrants at the border  which could reach 10,000 per day  is still to be determined. Already, Customs and Border protection dealt with more than 26,000 migrants at the border in just three days.

With Title 42 gone, the new watchword will be Title 8 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Hundreds of migrants arrive in Ciudad Juarez to cross the border into the United States before the Title 42 policy, which allows for the immediate expulsion of irregular migrants entering the country, comes to an end. Those found to have entered the country illegally could face a five-year ban on reentry

The law was enacted in 1952 and its provisions have guided border enforcement for decades.

It gives those seeking asylum the ability to participate in a 'credible fear' interview with an officer or judge.

If they fail it, they could soon be back on a plane to their home country or Mexico through expedited removal proceedings. Otherwise, they can begin the lengthy process of seeking asylum.

Those whose claims don't stand up place potentially more severe consequences, Arizona Central reported.

This includes a five-year ban on reentry for those found to have entered the country illegally and potential government prosecution of people who seek to cross the border again and again.

President Joe Biden's administration is preparing for an influx of border crossers when the authority expires Thursday

There have already been an estimated 2.8 million expulsions since March 2020 under Title 42 authority.

According to a Department of Homeland Security plan for the end of Title 42 in December, 'For noncitizens seeking to evade apprehension, repeat offenders, and those engaging in smuggling efforts, we are increasing referrals for prosecutions.'

The government wants people to make asylum claims by making appointments through an app.

Those who violate the five-year ban imposed on them face an even harsher penalty  prosecution or a ban of up to 20 years on reentry.

Those whose asylum claims remain alive could either be placed in long-term detention facilities or released. They would still need to appear before an immigration judge. The administration has been trying to surge resources to the border amid a severe case backlog.

End of Title 42

Title 42 is finally coming to an end on Thursday, May 11 and there are at least 10,000 migrants waiting in Mexico to immediately cross the U.S. southern border once the policy is no longer in use.

The public health measure was employed in March 2020 by then-President Donald Trump to quell migration during the COVID-19 pandemic by blocking those caught at those at the border from seeking asylum.

Migrants could be rapidly expelled back to Mexico, and since it began Title 42 has been used more than 2.7 million times. In March more than 191,00 migrants were encountered at the border, and many expect crossings to rise from 7,500 to 13,000 a day when Title 42 ends.

The Biden administration will try and stem the surge by enacting a new rule that will disqualify migrants who have not sought asylum, by increasing deportations and by setting up new processing centers in Colombia and Guatemala.

But it is unclear what impact the new rules will have, meaning migrants are already lining up at the border and camping in Mexico to see if they can take advantage of the end of the ruling.

Many who have traveled for thousands of miles to try and get into the United States have been told by smugglers that it will be easier to get in when Title 42 expires, but there will be 1,500 troops and more border guards on duty trying to stop them.

President Joe Biden is finally putting an end to Title 42 on May 11 with the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency

The president deployed 1,000 active duty service members to the southern border to brace for chaos once the policy is no longer in use

For asylum seekers, they will no longer be processed under Title 42, but a different border policy known as Title 8, where migrants who have asked for protection get a preliminary interview or a chance to appear in front of an immigration judge.

This means border crossers can be paroled in the United States, could be held in detention centers or held in processing centers while their case is decided.

So what is Title 42, when was it enacted and what are authorities and the southern border bracing for when it does end next week?

History of Title 42

Title 42 was first enacted nearly eight decades ago as part of the Public Health Service Act of 1944.

The policy allows for border and immigration authorities to prohibit the entry of those who potentially pose a health risk or recently visited a country where a communicable disease was present.

Specifically, the law is related to stopping those who unlawfully entered the country and therefore were able to bypass any health-screening measures that might be in place.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Title 42 was used to immediately deport migrants without processing their asylum claims due to the declared public health emergency.

Enacting and attempting to end Title 42

Trump put Title 42 to use in March 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic hit the U.S.

Not only was the then-president using it as a way to stop migrants from bringing and spreading the virus in the country, but it also helped advance his tough-on-immigration stance.

President Joe Biden has tried to end Title 42 on more than one occasion, first attempting to do so in May 2022.

Republicans and illegal immigration hawks, however, argued that as long as a health emergency was declared in the U.S., the policy should also remain. They have also argued since then that the program needs to persist because there is nothing to replace it and illegal immigration will massively spike once it ends.

In March 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) decided the pandemic's intensity reduced enough for Title 42 expulsions to be ended.

May 23, 2022 was the first date the Biden administration set to terminate the poliocy's use.

But just before the expiration date was reached, Louisiana Federal District Judge Robert Summerhays blocked the administration from lifting Title 42 and expulsions continued through the original deadline.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas visited the southern border in Brownsville, Texas on Friday, May 5 to meet with senior members of Border Patrol with the impending end of Title 42

At least 10,000 migrants are waiting near the southern side of the U.S.-Mexico border to immediately cross into the U.S. once Title 42 is lifted, according to internal estimates

Later in December 2022, Biden tried to once again end Title 42 close to the Christmas holiday as reports and images emerged of migrants freezing on the streets of El Paso, Texas.

The second attempt to end the policy came in November when Federal District Judge Emmet Sullivan ruled it as unlawful and created a December 21 end date.

The Supreme Court stepped in, however, to pause that ruling on December 19.

The policy remained in place while legal proceedings played out.

May 11, 2022 serves as the final end date for Title 42  coming in conjunction to the end of a three-year public health emergency.

The declaration of the health emergency gave the president certain authorities that are only able to be used during times of emergency in the U.S., including increased executive privilege.

Effects of Title 42 and its imminent end

Since Title 42 was enacted in March 2020, migrants have been expelled in more than 2.5 million instances. It's unclear what rate there are repeated expulsions under the policy.

When taking all Title 42 expulsions into account since March 2020, at least 81 percent took place since Biden's inauguration after he twice-failed to end the policy.

With the latest deadline of May 11, the Biden administration also announced last week the deployment of 1,500 active-duty soldiers to the U.S.-Mexico border where they will remain for 90 days as border communities brace for massive spikes in crossings.

There are fears that the number of migrants that could cross in the days after Title 42's expiration could span between 700,000 and 1 million.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Sunday morning that it will be a 'tough challenge' to address migration at the southern border with Title 42 ended and said there will be 'unprecedented' immigration throughout the entire hemisphere after Thursday.

'There is already reports of Brownsville, Texas right now. Shelters are overwhelmed. The cities of Chicago and New York are already overwhelmed. What's May 12 going to look like if we're already overwhelmed before the expiration of Title 42?' NBC News Meet the Press host Chuck Todd posed.

'First of all, this is a really tough challenge and has been, as we all recognize, for years and years. We are seeing a level of migration not just at our southern border, but throughout the hemisphere, that is unprecedented,' Mayorkas replied.

'It is, I think, the greatest migration in our hemisphere since World War II,' he added.

'Our approach is to build lawful pathways, cut out the ruthless smugglers, deliver lawful pathways so people can access humanitarian relief without having to take the dangerous journey from their home countries. And at the same time, if they arrive at our southern border in between ports of entry, we will deliver consequences.'

Mayorkas has assured Congress that the southern border is closed and has refused to call the immense number of illegal crossings a 'crisis.'

Republicans have called for Mayorkas' resignation or impeachment, claiming he has lied to Congress and the American people and has engaged in a dereliction of duty.

As Title 42 comes to an end, a resident of Brownsville, Texas said she questions if Mayorkas and Biden 'even care' about the people in these border communities.

Asked what her message would be for Mayorkas, the resident told Fox News on Sunday: 'I would ask him if he even cares about us, because I have to take my son to school and it's cruel to not have a plan in place for all of the people you're supposed to represent.'

'He keeps talking about 'humanity' and 'being compassionate' and 'cutting out the cartel'  and it's just lip service,' she added.

What is Title 8, and how is it different to Title 42?

When Title 42 comes to an end, the U.S. will rely more heavily on Title 8 to process asylum seekers.

This is the regular process for processing border crossers that was in place before Title 42.

Both Title 42 and Title 8 allow migrants to be expelled, but under Title 8 there is more paperwork to file and crossers have a chance to appear for an interview or have their case heard in front of a judge.

While they wait, these applicants may be paroled in the U.S., could be held in detention centers or detained in processing centers before their cases are resolved.

The Biden administration has insisted that Title 8 has stiffer punishments for trying to get into the country illegally, including a five-year ban on entering the United States.

But critics and immigration advocates have warned that it will increase the number of migrants in custody.

The switch to Title 8 is seen as a deterrent, but smugglers keep telling migrants heading north that the dropping of Title 42 will make it easier to cross.
A pregnant mother, her husband and their two young children have been killed in a head-on collision after an SUV barreled down the wrong side of a Texas freeway.

Melodi Boivin, 21, and Xavier Caballero, 23, were pronounced dead at the scene in Lubbock, Texas, and their two babies, Marcellus, 2, and Lezlie, 1, later died in hospital.

The family, who were expecting to welcome their third child in the coming months, were driving near Marsha Sharp Freeway and Upland Avenue in Lubbock, Texas, around 1.30am on Sunday morning.

Dad-of-two Xavier was driving a minivan in the right lane of the freeway when they were struck head-on by an SUV.

The SUV was being driven by 46-year-old George Wallace. Cops say Wallace was traveling on the wrong side of the freeway when he fatally collided with the family.

Married couple Melodi Boivin, 21, (right) and Xavier Caballero, 23, (left) were killed in the collision on Marsha Sharp Freeway and Upland Avenue in Lubbock, Texas. Their two young kids also died - as well as Melodi's unborn child

The family, who were expecting to welcome their third child in the coming months, were driving near Marsha Sharp Freeway and Upland Avenue at 1.30am on Sunday morning

Siblings Lezlie Caballero, one, (left) and Marcellus Boivin, two, (right) were rushed to hospital but succumbed to their injuries

Parents Melodi and Xavier, as well as Wallace, all died at the scene.

The two children were rushed to hospital in an attempt to save their lives, but they tragically also succumbed to their injuries.

Police confirmed that both children were in car seats at the back of the van at the time of the collision.

Melodi's unborn child also died as a result of the fatal crash, cops said.

A GoFundMe page for the family reads: 'My name is Kittye Tannery and am creating this fund for a close family friend Janice.

'Janices Granddaughter Melodi, Melodies husband Xavier, and their two babies, were all involved in a fatal head on collision.

'Four funerals are a lot and I know Janice will appreciate any help we can give. ALL funds will go to funeral. Please keep the family in your prayers as they mourn the loss of Melodi Boivin, Xavier Caballero, Marcellus Boivin, Lezlie Caballero and Melodi and Xavier's unborn baby.'

Family and friends have taken to social media to mourn the family. One person wrote about Melodi: 'I'm sorry you are gone. You were soo amazing and it was an honor to be your friend.

'You lit up the room with good vibes and you where just an amazing person in general. My condolences to both families. I love yall rest easy.'

Another wrote about Xavier: 'Still in shock. Xavier Caballero you were a great friend whom I shared many memories with. Doesnt feel real. Rest easy old friend.'
Niemi, originally from Hurley, Wisconsin, had been camping with his family in the area with family

An eight-year-old boy who disappeared on Saturday in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan has been found by rescue teams.

Nante Niemi disappeared in the middle of the day during his family's trip to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on Saturday around 1pm local time.

On Monday afternoon, rescue teams successfully found Niemi who had braved the elements by taking shelter under a log just two miles from his campsite.

In a statement, Michigan State Police said he was in good health and reunited with his family.

Pictured: The young boy can be seen being carried through a wooded area of the park

Pictured: Niemi (center) and a group of rescuers who helped find him

His mom had shared this image of him to her Facebook profile

His mother Jessica had made a frantic Facebook appeal, saying: 'This is Nante but at this time they are not asking for help.

'We appreciate the outpouring support if they are in need for help I will update.

'Please stay away it will make it harder to find him!'

In a post to Facebook, the Hurley School District said: 'From our Hurley School Community to the hundreds of volunteers and organizations that helped bring Nante back safely, we can't even adequately express our sincere gratitude.

'Although our emotions are very raw at this time, we want to acknowledge the extreme outpouring of love and support we received over these past few days!

'May all those who took part in the search and rescue efforts know that your work will have a positive impact on many lives forever!'

More than 150 search and rescue personnel from Michigan State Police and local police, including nine K9 scoured the forty square mile area on foot for the boy

Air and water teams where also called in to the area for the missing youth, who was last seen wearing a white sweatshirt, grey sweatpants and black boots.

Pictured: A map showing the remote location in the upper peninsula of

According to Michigan State Police, family members had been camping in the state park, with half of the family fishing while the other half collected firewood.

Nante had asked to return to the camp site and left to walk back around 1pm on Saturday, which was the last time he was seen.

Family members searched for the youngster on their own before reporting the situation to law enforcement around 6pm on Saturday.

Michigan State Police warned that there is no cell phone service in the area and that they are working to improve communications.

Following the boy being found safe, Michigan State Police said: 'The Michigan State Police wish to thank all of the volunteers and support services that assisted in locating this child.'

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is an area that covers 60,000 acres of forest, waterfalls, rivers, trails and ridges.
A female police officer was killed on her front lawn as she was returning home from work in Avalon Park, Chicago.

Officer Areanah Preston, 24, was found dead in front of her home on 81st Street and Blackstone Avenue as she came home from work at 1.42am on Saturday morning.

She died from multiple gunshot wounds and her death is officially being considered a in-the-line-of-duty killing, a CPD spokesperson said Monday.

Four people, two males and two females, have been arrested over the fatal shooting. They were taken into custody after a SWAT standoff Sunday night.

It's believed that some, or all, of the suspects are juveniles.

Areanah Preston, 24, was killed on her front lawn as she was returning home from work in Avalon Park, Chicago

Preston's family and friends have paid tribute to the beloved officer

Police have not released the names of any of the people arrested after the standoff or said if and how they were involved in the officer's killing.

Speaking about how Preston's body was found, Interim Police Supt. Eric Carter said: 'The officer picked her up, put her in the back of his car, and immediately brought her to U of C hospital where she succumbed to her injuries early this morning.'

She had worked at the Chicago Police Department for three years before her death

Preston was a three-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department.

The Fraternal Order of Police, the officer's union, stated online that she was killed while defending herself against armed robbers.

They wrote: 'Though off-duty Officer Areanah Preston was killed while trying to defend herself from armed individuals in an apparent robbery, she died taking police action.' Police officials have not confirmed the details of what led to her murder.

Preston's family and friends have paid tribute to the officer. Her father, Allen Preston, told the Chicago Sun-Times: 'She was trying to make a change on this Earth.'

Preston, who lives in Los Angeles, described his daughter as a 'beautiful soul' who 'always saw the best in people.'

'This was my baby. Everything I did was for her,' he said. 'I dont know what to do, right now. Ill be dealing with this for the rest of my life.'

The Fraternal Order of Police, the officer's union, stated online that she was killed while defending herself against armed robbers

Areanah Preston, 24, died in the line of duty in Chicago

Chicago police and fire department personnel prepare for a fallen police officer to arrive at the Cook County Medical Examiner's office

Four people, two males and two females, have now been arrested over the fatal shooting. They were taken into custody after a SWAT standoff on Sunday night

Officer Areanah Preston, 24, was found dead in front of her home on 81st Street and Blackstone Avenue as she came home from work at 1.42am on Saturday morning

Late Saturday morning, more than a dozen family members gathered outside Areanah Prestons home.

'She was a definite role model with a career path that just didnt stop,' said her aunt, Sonia Rawsk.

Another aunt of Preston's, Norma Mhoon, said in a Facebook video: 'It weakens me to even think that she's gone.'

Mhoon said: 'She's a very good sweetheart. A very nice person: educated, intelligent in every way, striving for her master's, her goals and everything. She was just doing such a great job. And this happened to her. It's unbelievable.'

Areanah Preston earned a bachelors degree in criminal justice and law enforcement administration from Illinois State University.

Professor Charles Bell told the Sun-Times that she was 'very passionate about making a difference and showing young people that policing is a profession that can make a difference in the community.'

'She was very aware of a lot of the problems that in her opinion had manifested in the Chicago community,' Bell added.

'She was a reformer. She saw a problem and she was dedicated to making a difference.'
The Texas mall gunman scoped out the scene of his crime to track when it would be busiest three weeks before he shot dead eight people in a senseless bloodbath, it has been reported.

A social media account that appears to belong to Mauricio Garcia, 33, is littered with photos of Nazis, guns and ammunition as well as extremist rants about Jews, women and racial minorities, according to Bellingcat researcher Aric Toler.

In the weeks before he committed the senseless mass shooting at Allen Premium Outlets near Dallas, more than two dozen photos of the shopping center and surrounding area were uploaded to an account on the OK.RU platform, including screenshots of Google location information tracking peak visiting times.

Both Toler and NBC said the account, on Russian site OK.RU, belonged to Garcia, who was shot and killed at the scene.

DailyMail.com verified a picture of Garcia uploaded to the account that shows him next to a waitress at a Texas Twin Peaks.

DailyMail.com verified a picture of Garcia uploaded to an account on a Russian social media that shows him next to a Hooters waitress in a Texas branch. It was uploaded alongside the caption: 'Me at the Twin Peaks in Frisco on Preston Road. Now that's a girl who knows how to make a guy smile. How to drive a guy crazy.'

Posts also show a series of shirtless pictures with white power tattoos on his body, including SS Lightning Bolts and a swastika

The account on the site OK.RU is also littered with pictures of guns and ammunition

It was uploaded alongside the caption: 'Me at the Twin Peaks in Frisco on Preston Road. Now that's a girl who knows how to make a guy smile. How to drive a guy crazy.'

Another post appears to show the receipt for the guns and ammunition he bought in 2020, which he ultimately used to carry out the shootings.

The account also links to other sites, including one of a YouTube account with a video that allegedly shows Garcia removing a 'Scream' mask before asking in a modulated voice: 'Not quite what you were expecting, huh?'

The video was uploaded before the shooting, but was scheduled to be published afterwards, according to Toler.

The OK.RU account carries posts referencing extremist online forums and content from white nationalists, including Nick Fuentes, an anti-Semitic white nationalist.

The Texas mall gunman scoped out the scene of his crime to track when it would be busiest three weeks before he shot dead eight people in a senseless bloodbath, it has been reported.

Other photos include a bulletproof vest that appears to match the one described by witnesses to the shooting, which is emblazoned with an acronym for 'Right Wing Death Squad' - a popular meme among far-right extremist groups.

In one video that shows the account holder gives a tour of his apartment, a tattoo visible on his hand appears to match that seen in a picture of Garcia lying dead after he is shot by police at Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday.

In the weeks before he committed the senseless mass shooting at Allen Premium Outlets near Dallas, more than two dozen photos of the shopping center and surrounding area were uploaded to an account on the OK.RU platform that appears to belong to Garcia

Posts also included Google location information which monitors peak times at the center

The account was littered with Nazi posts. The following four photos were all uploaded with the caption: 'My kind of people'

It also posts extensively about Hitler, 'superior races' and about wanting to escape life

Garcia was briefly enrolled in the Army in 2008 and previously worked as a security guard but his license expired in 2020

Posts also show a series of shirtless pictures with white power tattoos on his body, including SS Lightning Bolts and a swastika.

Garcia's motive remains unclear; his victims range in age from three to 61 and come from a variety of ethnicities.

But the OK.RU account makes is plastered with neo-Nazi ideology and rants against women and Jews.

It also posts extensively about Hitler, 'superior races' and about wanting to escape life, while raving about mass killer Jeffrey Dahmer.

The final post on OK.RU included the lyrics of a heavy metal song titled 'You've dug your grave now lie in it.'

The account didn't explicitly state what was being planned, but twisted posts refer frequently to violence.

Garcia was briefly enrolled in the Army in 2008 and previously worked as a security guard but his license expired in 2020.

According to witnesses from the shooting and photos from the scene, he had dressed in tactical gear.

No one from Garcia's family has commented on the shooting on Saturday.

PICTURED: Two elementary school-aged sisters killed by neo-Nazi in Texas outlet mall shooting

Two Texan sisters shot and killed in Saturday's mass shooting at an Allen mall have been pictured, as a disturbing picture emerges of the swastika-tattooed gunman sharing white supremacist and neo-Nazi posts online.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, shot and killed eight people, and injured seven more, before he was killed by police.

On Monday photos of two sisters he murdered were published - Daniela Mendoza, 10, and her eight-year-old sister Sofia.

Their mother, Ilda Mendoza, remains in critical condition.

Daniela Mendoza, 10, and her eight-year-old sister Sofia (right) were among eight people shot and killed at the Allen outlet mall in Texas on Saturday

The girls were killed and their mother, Ilda, seriously injured. They are pictured with their father, Alex Mendoza

Both sisters took cheerleading classes at Wylie Elite gym in Wylie, 13 miles from the mall.

'Two of the victims who were sisters, and who lost their lives this past weekend, not only took classes at Wylie Elite, but are nieces to one of our team families,' the gym posted on Facebook.

'Our hearts are broken for these families. They have shared that one of their favorite colors was yellow.

'To honor these young ladies, WE want everyone to wear yellow this week. Also please be praying for all of the families affected.'

The girls attended Cheri Cox Elementary School - Daniela in the fourth grade, and her sister in second grade.

The principal, Krista Wilson, described them as 'rays of sunshine.'

The district sent a letter to parents and students detailing the 'heartbreaking situation' impacting one of its elementary campuses.

Medical City Healthcare said it continues to treat six patients at three hospitals from the shooting.

Three are in critical condition, two patients are in fair condition and one patient is in good condition.

The girls were not the youngest victim.

Three-year-old James Cho, his mother Cindy and father Kyu were also killed.

James' six-year-old brother, William, survived the shooting, according to officials.

William had celebrated his sixth birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries.

Family members have now confirmed that the schoolboy has been moved from ICU, and it is thought that he is one of the youngest injured in the attack.

A GoFundMe for the Korean family has raised nearly $200,000 of their $50,000 goal, and described their 'deep mourning.'

Cindy, 35, Kyu, 37, and James Cho, 3, (pictured) were all shot dead following the rampage in Allen, Texas, on Saturday. Their eldest son, William (bottom left) survived the incident

William (left) had celebrated his sixth birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries

They said: 'An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left eight victims dead.

'After being released from the ICU, their six-year-old son William is the only surviving member of this horrific event.'

Dental colleagues of Cindy paid tribute to her as 'one of the kindest, happiest, most genuine people.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com that the family had been killed in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area.

Family members told the South Korean consulate in Dallas that the victims are U.S. citizens, according to Myoung Joon Kim, head of the Consulate in Dallas.

He said: 'The Korean consulate joins the people of the Dallas-Fort Worth area to express our deepest condolences for the victims and their family members.

'We pray for the victims and their family members for their healing and recovery.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com that the family had passed away in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area. Pictured: The couple with their eldest as a baby

Shoppers leave as law enforcement officers respond to the mass shooting in the Dallas area's Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday

Christian LaCour, 20, (pictured) who worked as a security guard at the mall, was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday

Engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27, and Christian LaCour, 20, who worked as a security guard at the mall, were also killed in the massacre.

Thatikonda, originally from Hyderabad, India, had been shopping for her upcoming birthday when she was one of the nine shot dead - including the shooter.

She moved to Dallas two years ago to work as a Project Engineer at Perfect General Contractors, was shopping with her friend at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday morning.

'She was very friendly and very loving,' a family representative told WFAA, adding that Thatikonda's friend was injured in the shooting and is currently stable in the hospital.

On Monday the final victim's name was confirmed as Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32, from Dallas.

LaCour was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified, with his grandmother Sandra Montgomery describing him as a 'beautiful soul'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen, Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

Aishwarya Thatikonda (pictured), who is originally from Hyderabad, India, was identified as one of the nine killed in the massacre - including the shooter - by a family representative today

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

MacKenzie Bates embraces her mother Rochelle where flowers were left at the scene of the shooting

In another tribute post shared Sunday, one person who is friends with LaCour's family said he was a 'very sweet gentleman.'

Kellie Smith said she considered herself lucky to have 'watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman,' the woman wrote on Facebook.

'Their will forever be a void. Please uplift his family in prayer as they navigate this unimaginable time of their lives.

'Christian you will always remain close to us because we will keep you in our hearts until we see you in Heaven,' Smith wrote.

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

Multiple victims have been reported after an active shooter opened fired at an outdoor outlet mall - with one of the gunmen now reportedly dead and another still at-large

Garcia was shot and killed by a police officer after the shooting on Saturday afternoon and officials are investigating whether he had an interest in white supremacist or neo-Nazi ideologies.

A law enforcement official said federal agents had been reviewing social media accounts and believed Garcia had expressed an interest in neo-Nazi views.

He had tattoos of a swastika and a SS lightning bolt, plus a patch on his chest reading RWDS - an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have searched a home connected to the suspect  believed to be where his parents live - and a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying.

The motel room contained multiple weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Dashcam footage showed the moment a gunman opened fire and killed multiple civilians - as cops are reportedly on the hunt for a second gunman believed to have aided in the assault

The front entrance of a home connected to suspected mall gunman, Mauricio Garcia

Footage showed the moment those first shots rang out, in which the gunman is seen pulling up to the store.

Dashcam video showed the gunman getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

Garcia was using an AR-15-style gun during the mass shooting, and was dressed in full tactical SWAT gear.

Investigators confirmed they believe shooter Garcia was working alone, but they have not yet released any motive for the killings.
A six-year-old boy was left orphaned days after celebrating his birthday after his parents and younger brother were killed in the Texas mall massacre.

Dentist Cindy Cho, 35, her husband Kyu, 37, and son James, 3, were all shot dead following the rampage in Allen, Texas, on Saturday.

The Korean couple's eldest son William had celebrated his sixth birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries.

Family members have now confirmed that the schoolboy has been moved from ICU, and it is thought that he is one of the youngest injured in the attack.

A GoFundMe for the family has raised nearly $200,000 of their $50,000 goal, and described their 'deep mourning.'

Cindy, 35, Kyu, 37, and James Cho, 3, (pictured) were all shot dead following the rampage in Allen, Texas, on Saturday. Their eldest son, William (bottom left) survived the incident

William (left) had celebrated his sixth birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries

They said: 'An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left eight victims dead.

'After being released from the ICU, their six-year-old son William is the only surviving member of this horrific event.'

Dental colleagues of Cindy paid tribute to her as 'one of the kindest, happiest, most genuine people.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com that the family had passed away in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area.

Family members told the South Korean consulate in Dallas that the victims are U.S. citizens, according to Myoung Joon Kim, head of the Consulate in Dallas.

He said: The Korean consulate joins the people of the Dallas-Fort Worth area to express our deepest condolences for the victims and their family members.

We pray for the victims and their family members for their healing and recovery.

It comes after a Superintendent confirmed that two elementary school pupils were shot and killed in the tragedy.

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com that the family had passed away in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area. Pictured: The couple with their eldest as a baby

Shoppers leave as law enforcement officers respond to the mass shooting in the Dallas area's Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday

Christian LaCour, 20, (pictured) who worked as a security guard at the mall, was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday

Fourth-grader Daniela Mendoza and second-grader Sofia Mendoza were both shot dead and their mother, Ilda, remains in a critical condition.

Both attended Cox elementary school, with Wylie ISD Superintendent David Vinson saying in an email: 'We love your babies, we love them so much. Our love for our kiddos and each other will get us through this.

'Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them.'

Engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27, and Christian LaCour, 20, who worked as a security guard at the mall, were also killed in the massacre.

Thatikonda, originally from Hyderabad, India, had been shopping for her upcoming birthday when she was one of the nine shot dead - including the shooter.

She moved to Dallas two years ago to work as a Project Engineer at Perfect General Contractors, was shopping with her friend at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday morning when gunman Mauricio Garcia opened fire.

'She was very friendly and very loving,' a family representative told WFAA, adding that Thatikonda's friend was injured in the shooting and is currently stable in the hospital.

LaCour was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday, with his grandmother Sandra Montgomery describing him as a 'beautiful soul'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen, Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

Aishwarya Thatikonda (pictured), who is originally from Hyderabad, India, was identified as one of the nine killed in the massacre - including the shooter - by a family representative today

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

MacKenzie Bates embraces her mother Rochelle where flowers were left at the scene of the shooting

In another tribute post shared Sunday, one person who is friends with LaCour's family said he was a 'very sweet gentleman.'

Kellie Smith said she considered herself lucky to have 'watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman,' the woman wrote on Facebook.

'Their will forever be a void. Please uplift his family in prayer as they navigate this unimaginable time of their lives. Christian you will always remain close to us because we will keep you in our hearts until we see you in Heaven,' Smith wrote.

LaCour was the first of eight victims to be identified publicly and the identification came a full day after the shooting took place.

Children were among the eight killed during the rampage, where more than 100 rounds were fired. Seven were pronounced at the scene and two at the hospital.

Additionally, the fire department transported nine victims to hospitals, however, officials say more may have been taken by other agencies.

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

Multiple victims have been reported after an active shooter opened fired at an outdoor outlet mall - with one of the gunmen now reportedly dead and another still at-large

Garcia was gunned down by a police officer after the shooting on Saturday afternoon and officials are investigating whether he had an interest in white supremacist or neo-Nazi ideologies.

A law enforcement official said federal agents had been reviewing social media accounts and believed Garcia had expressed an interest in neo-Nazi views.

He reportedly had a patch on his chest reading RWDS - an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have searched a home connected to the suspect  believed to be where his parents live - and a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying.

The motel room contained multiple weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Dashcam footage showed the moment a gunman opened fire and killed multiple civilians - as cops are reportedly on the hunt for a second gunman believed to have aided in the assault

The front entrance of a home connected to suspected mall gunman, Mauricio Garcia

Footage showed the moment those first shots rang out, in which the gunman is seen pulling up to the store.

Dashcam video showed the gunman getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

Garcia was using an AR-15-style gun during the mass shooting, and was dressed in full tactical SWAT gear.

Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd confirmed that seven people died at the scene, including the gunman, and then a further two victims died in hospital.

Three of the wounded were in critical condition in the evening, and four were stable, Boyd said in an update on Saturday night.

A Dallas-area medical group said it was treating victims as young as 5 years old.

Investigators confirmed they believe shooter Garcia was working alone, but they have not yet released any motive for the killings.
Do you know this student? Contact harriet.alexander@mailonline.com

Reports indicate the teacher had taken the student's phone because she was 'texting and Googling answers for her school work'

She then says 'give me my phone' before trying to take it from his hand after the assault at Antioch High School outside of Nashville

The female student can be seen spraying the male teacher in the face before he falls to his knees in the hallway

This is the shocking moment a Tennessee high school student pepper-sprayed her teacher twice after he confiscated her phone from her during class.

The female student can be seen nonchalantly following her male teacher as he fled the classroom after being assaulted a first time - only to spray him in the face, demanding: 'Give me my phone.'

Other students laughed and joked as the teacher yelled out and sank to his knees, before the student tried unsuccessfully to take her phone from his hand. The person behind the camera can be heard yelling 'mace is crazy'.

According to the person who posted the video to Reddit, the student at Antioch High School in Nashville had been 'texting and Googling answers for her school work.'

The user who posted the video claims the same teacher was also previously punched in the face by a student at the school two months ago.

The student can be seen slowly walking up behind her teacher before spraying him on the left side of his face, sending him to his knees in the hallway at Antioch High School in Nashville

The footage was captured by another student and showed the teacher fleeing the classroom after being assaulted, only to be sprayed again by the same student in the hallway

At several points during the attack, other employees attempted to help out as the girl repeatedly told the teacher to give her back her phone.

'She just pepper-sprayed me,' the teacher yelled while speaking to another educator just seconds before she sprayed him again.

As she went to grab her device, he pulled his arm back, prompting her to raise the mace and spray him again.

Another adult stepped in and told the girl to back up, even as she continued to yell out, 'can I get my phone' and 'I need my phone.'

A bystander off-camera at one point can be heard saying, 'Over a phone? This s**t is crazy.'

The other teacher from a neighboring classroom told the girl she cannot have her phone back as the pepper-sprayed teacher attempted to recover.

The video ended with one teacher coughing as others intervened.

DailyMail.com reached out to the school district to see if the female student has faced any disciplinary actions or repercussions but did not hear back.

According to the person who posted the video to Reddit , the student had been 'texting and Googling answers for her school work'

Another adult stepped in and told the girl to back up, even as she continued to yell out, 'can I get my phone' and 'I need my phone'

The video was taken inside Antioch High School, located just outside of Nashville, on Friday afternoon and features the student yelling 'mace is crazy'

According to the Reddit user, the same teacher was punched in the face by a different student just two months ago.

In that incident, the teacher had also confiscated a phone from a student.

The user claimed that student was cheating on a test.

The shocking video sparked an emotional reaction online with hundreds of people across social-media platforms responding to the assault.

'The sad part is all the other kids just laugh likes it's a joke,' responded one Reddit user.

'It should be easier to suspend or expel students with cause. Make sh**** parents take the brunt of their inaction,' another added. 'The kid laughing because the teacher got pepper sprayed is also trash.'

'At what point in time do teachers get to sue for school districts not providing safe working conditions for their workers?' one chimed in.

'She should be charged with assault and expelled,' another wrote.

It's unclear if the teenager has been arrested or charged in this incident.
Society photographer Hugo Burnand has a secret weapon when it comes to portraits of the Royal Family  jelly beans.

He used bowls of the sweets to keep William and Kate's bridesmaids and page boys in line while photographing them with the royal couple at their wedding.

Mr Burnand has not said whether he has used the trick on any of his other subjects, however.

These include the late Queen, Baroness Thatcher, former US President Bill Clinton and artist Lucian Freud.

The father-of-four has had an enormous amount of success regardless  he is now the only portrait photographer with a Royal Warrant given by the King.

Society photographer Hugo Burnand (pictured) has a secret weapon when it comes to portraits of the Royal Family  jelly beans

The father-of-four has had an enormous amount of success regardless  he is now the only portrait photographer with a Royal Warrant given by the King

He has been capturing royal portraits for almost two decades. But he first turned down the opportunity that launched him into his career as a royal photographer - Charles' wedding to Camilla wedding in 2005.

Mr Burnand, a society photographer for Tatler magazine, had taken a career break to take his young children to South America for six months in 2004.

Disaster struck when thieves stole the family's money, passports and Mr Burnand's camera equipment.

It was only when the photographer found an internet cafe to try to contact his insurers that he saw an email from Clarence House, asking him to get in touch.

Mr Burnand initially said no to the job but said he realised while trekking in the jungle that he had just turned down the chance of a lifetime  the future King's wedding.

This change of heart changed his life and he has since photographed William and Kate's 2011 wedding, and taken official portraits of Charles on his 60th and 70th birthdays, and of Charles and Camilla in the run-up to the Coronation.

He also photographed the Princess Royal to mark her 70th birthday, and took the official pictures for the wedding of Lady Gabriella Windsor in 2019.

Mr Burnand, 59, has said he likes his portraits to have an 'approachable' quality and wants viewers to feel 'you are almost talking to the person'.

However, his method has had to accommodate for the second-by-second precision of royal events, for which Mr Burnand has to prepare rigorously.

He and his stepmother Ursy Burnand, who is also a photographer, rehearsed for William and Kate's wedding for more than three weeks, taking over the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace.

He first turned down the opportunity that launched him into his career as a royal photographer - Charles' wedding to Camilla wedding in 2005

Mr Burnand initially said no to the job but said he realised while trekking in the jungle that he had just turned down the chance of a lifetime  the future King's wedding

Mr Burnand, 59, has said he likes his portraits to have an 'approachable' quality and wants viewers to feel 'you are almost talking to the person'

Knowing they could not over-run by a moment, they used stopwatches and Palace staff to rehearse the group photographs as they knew they would have only 26 minutes before an RAF flypast for which the entire family had to appear on the balcony.

'We had spares for everything and then spares for the spares,' Mr Burnand said in an interview.

'We did dress rehearsals with stopwatches using endless staff from Buckingham Palace to fill in as family members, so we knew we had just enough time.'

He said bowls of various sweets were on hand for the young bridesmaids and page boys, telling Tatler magazine: 'We had bowls full of jelly beans and other sweets as rewards. Interestingly, all the jelly beans disappeared, although I'm not convinced it was only the little people who ate them.'

Born in Cannes, France, Mr Burnand was raised in Berkshire and went to Cheam School in Headley, Hampshire, the prep school attended by the King and the late Duke of Edinburgh.

He won his first photography competition at the school, aged seven, and practised his skills while at Harrow, taking portraits of school-leavers.

His mother Susan Gordon was killed in a car crash in 1964, the year after he was born, and he was raised by his father Peter and his stepmother Ursy, from whom he learned his early photography skills.

After working as a stable hand and then as an insurance broker at Lloyd's of London, he became a professional photographer at 27 and worked as Tatler's society photographer for its Bystander party column for more than 20 years.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla are pictured with members of the working royal family: (left to right) the Duke of Kent, the Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Princess Royal, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales, the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra, the Hon. Lady Ogilvy, the Duke of Edinburgh

He won his first photography competition at the school, aged seven, and practised his skills while at Harrow, taking portraits of school-leavers

He took the photos at David and Samantha Cameron's wedding in 1996 and his other famous subjects include Spike Milligan, Victoria Beckham and Michael Jackson.

But he is best known for his images of the Royal Family, following in the footsteps of Cecil Beaton, who photographed Queen Elizabeth II after her 1953 Coronation.

Mr Burnand said he had spent weeks studying images from past coronations, including the portraits of the late Queen.

Beaton later revealed in his diaries that he had such nerves about the 1953 Coronation that he drank heavily the night before and woke up badly hung over.

When he came to the task, he feared he had the lighting wrong but realised he did not have time to change anything.

He wrote: 'I was banging away and getting pictures at a great rate. I had only the foggiest notion of whether I was taking black and white, or colour, or giving the right exposures.'
U.S. military drives, exacerbates violence in Somalia: Quincy Institute

Xinhua) 14:17, May 08, 2023

NEW YORK, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The United States remains in Somalia in a conflict that shows no signs of ending anytime soon despite the Biden administration's talk of bringing an end to America's endless wars, said the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft in an article on Friday.

U.S. military involvement, assistance, and training have all contributed to perpetuating the war with the militant group al-Shabab, it cited a new Costs of War Project report.

"Rather than bringing that country closer to peace and stability, U.S. policy has instead been one of the drivers of the conflict," said the report.

"The United States is not simply contributing to conflict in Somalia, but has, rather, become integral to the inevitable continuation of conflict in Somalia," in which the United States has no vital security interests at stake, the report was quoted as saying.

Current U.S. policy is exacerbating Somalia's security problems instead of alleviating them, said the institute.

"At the very least, the Biden administration should end direct U.S. involvement in the war in Somalia," it added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Bellingham, Washington, once labeled the 'most hippie' town in the state, is now attempting to take drastic action to outlaw public drug usage after statewide decriminalization two years ago led to a spike in crime and overdoses.

The progressive city of 92,000, situated about one hour south of the Canadian border, has seen overdoses become so commonplace that one dead man was left on a bench for 12 hours before his body was cleared away.

The city's Fire Department has responded to 223 overdoses - 2.5 overdose calls a day - between January and mid-April of this year. A nearly 100% increase to the rate at which calls came in last year.

Among those who have passed are two teenagers, and a 5-year-old girl, who overdosed on fentanyl in March and was found by authorities foaming at the mouth. The death led to the arrest of the child's parents and another person.

Three Bellingham residents are among six people indicted for trafficking fentanyl in Whatcom County in April, 2023

A haul of cocaine was found inside shipments of bananas at three Safeway stores in Western Washington in 2019 (left). A homeless village behind a supermarket in the city of Bellingham, Washington (right)

City Council Member Edwin Williams recounted hearing about the body of a dead man that was left on a bench in public for 12 hours amid the surge in overdose deaths

City Council Member Edwin Williams told the New York Post that some of the grisly scenes 'shocked me to my core.'

'A man was sitting on the curb in a parking lot with his head bowed, right out in the open  and a police officer told me that he had been dead for at least 12 hours,' he said.

'I have lived here for 30 years, and no, I havent seen anything like this,' he continued. 'I would characterize our city as one that is trying and willing to bend over backwards to help and provide people with programs to address either addiction or homelessness.'

In 2018, Bellingham was named 'the most hippie town in Washington' by OnlyInYourState.com. A title local media bragged about at the time that opened the door for deregulation, which has led to crime spikes and drug casualties.

In April, city officials approved an ordinance that would make it illegal to 'inject, ingest or inhale' hard drugs in public.

Two years ago, Washington state passed a law that did the opposite - decriminalizing drug possession.

Overdose deaths in the county in which Bellingham is situated have exploded in the last several years.

In 2018, Whatcom County had 11 overdose deaths. In 2021 that number was 50. And in 2022, it ballooned to 89.

The new rule stipulates that those caught using hard drugs, like fentanyl or meth, in public will be arrested, but may only face misdemeanor charges.

Seth Fleetwood, the mayor of the city said that the ordinance will also include a 'community court' component, meaning those arrested may be placed on a type of diversion programs, as opposed to in jail. Details of that program remain undeveloped.

Bellingham parent Steve and Laurie Satushek told the Post the new ordinance is not enough. Their 29-year-old son died in April after a 10-year battle with drug addiction, during which his grieving parents say authorities and the state failed him.

'The fact that my son overdosed on fentanyl or any drug was just bound to happen because he did not have a chance in our system,' said Laurie.

Officials in the city say they saw a nearly immediate uptick in crime and public drug use in 2021, after the state Supreme Court struck down a state law that made simple drug possession a felony

'I would consider myself a progressive person, but there just are a lot of laws and things that I dont think work properly,' said Steve.

'I walk around downtown and its just awful. I went with my son to some of these homeless camps, and theyre just horrid, filthy places. I feel real strongly that we need to go back to what the New York mayor [Eric Adams] and [California] Gov. Gavin Newsom have said, which is to involuntarily commit people who need that help.'

Officials in the city say they saw a nearly immediate uptick in crime and public drug use in 2021, after the state Supreme Court struck down a state law that made simple drug possession a felony.

Current state law, which expired on July 1, classifies drug possession as a misdemeanor only on an offender's third arrest. A bill that went before the legislature this year would have provided harsher punishments, including a maximum jail sentence of 364 days and a $5,000 fine.

The bill died in the state Senate last month after failing to garner enough votes to move forward.

Following the failed vote, which came after intense negotiation on all sides, progressive Governor Jay Inslee expressed his disappointment and frustration: 'We cannot accept decriminalization in the middle of a fentanyl crisis.'
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said that he was not confident Republicans could take back the Senate majority next year - but outlined the GOP's strategy in an interview Monday.

Talking by phone to CNN, McConnell said Republicans' top targets are Pennsylvania, Ohio, Montana and West Virginia.

Overall, the map is favorable for Republicans, with Democrats needing to defend 23 seats, while Republicans will only be up for reelection in 11.

That being said, Republicans had an advantage in 2022 as well and fell short, and so when asked if he believed the GOP could flip control of the Senate next year, McConnell told CNN's Manu Raju with a chuckle: 'No, no - I'm not.'

'I just spent 10 minutes explaining to you how we could screw this up, and we're working very hard to not let that happen,' McConnell said. 'Let's put it that way.'

In a phone interview with CNN published Monday, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said he's 'working very hard' not to screw up the 2024 Senate races after Republicans fell short in 2022

McConnell's top 2024 Senate Democratic targets include Sen. Jon Tester in Montana, Sen. Sherrod Brown in Ohio, Sen. Joe Manchin in West Virginia and Sen. Bob Casey in Pennsylvania

McConnell acknowledged that he's walking in lockstep with Montana Sen. Steve Daines, who's heading the National Republican Senatorial Committee this cycle.

McConnell and the last NRSC chairman, Sen. Rick Scott, publicly disagreed over policy and strategy. Scott decided to let voters pick candidates in the primaries, who would then get support from the national party.

This time around, McConnell said he and Daines planned to play a bigger role in who will ultimately appear on the ballot - even if that means warring with the more conservative, more-MAGA parts of the party.

'We don't have an ideological litmus test,' McConnell told CNN. 'We want to win in November.'

'We'll be involved in any primary where that seems to be necessary to get a high-quality candidate, and we'll be involved in every general election where we have a legitimate shot of winning - regardless of the philosophy of the nominee,' the top Senate Republican added.

He said 'we know that we are going to compete in four places heavily, and that would be Montana, West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.'

Three of the four states Republicans are focusing on voted for Trump in 2020, but have Democratic senators up for reelection.

In Ohio and Montana, Democratic Sens. Sherrod Brown and Jon Tester have already announced reelection bids.

Sen. Joe Manchin, who's also mulling a 2024 presidential run, has yet to announce if he'll run for his seat again next year.

The fourth state, Pennsylvania, had the most closely watched Senate race in 2022 - between Republican TV personality Dr. Mehmet Oz and Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, with Fetterman coming out on top.

Now Democratic Sen. Bob Casey is on the ballot.

Pennsylvania Democrats are hoping that the far-right gubernatorial loser, Doug Mastriano, jumps into the race, which would practically ensure Casey a fourth term.

But McConnell and the GOP plan to back David McCormick, who narrowly lost the 2022 Pennsylvania GOP primary to Oz.

'I think everybody is entitled to run,' McConnell answered when asked if he was concerned about Mastriano getting in the race. 'I'm confident the vast majority of people who met Dave McCormick are going to be fine with him.'

There are other states Republicans are eying, but how much attention McConnell's group, the Senate Leadership Fund, pays to them will depend on how the primaries shake out.

'I didn't mention Wisconsin; I think clearly you'd have to have an outstanding candidate,' the Kentucky Republican said. 'And I think there are some other places where with the right candidate, we might be able to compete - in Nevada, Arizona.'

In Wisconsin, Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin is up for reelection. She announced her reelection bid last month.

In Nevada, Republicans would have to beat Sen. Jacky Rosen, who also announced her reelection bid last month.

In Arizona, Democrat-turned-independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is up for reelection - and hasn't yet announced if she'll vie for her seat.

That race will be one to watch as Sinema's political future is already being threatened by Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego.

McConnell said he didn't believe Sinema would change parties - though he would have welcomed it.

'I think that decision was made when she ended up continuing to caucus with the Democrats,' McConnell said. 'We would love to have had her, but we didn't land her.'

'We would love to have had her,' Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said about Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, who left the Democratic Party to become an independent, yet still caucuses with the Democrats

Republicans potentially mulling a Senate bid include last year's losers: Blake Masters, who lost to Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, and Kari Lake, who lost her governor's race to Katie Hobbs and then, like former President Trump, pushed false election fraud claims.

McConnell wouldn't say much when asking about Lake or Masters jumping in the race, saying there was a ''high likelihood' he and the NRSC would wait until the primary is over in Arizona.

'What I care about in November is winning and having an "R" by your name, and I think it is way too early to start assessing various candidacies that may or may not materialize,' McConnell said.

But one candidacy is known about - and that is that Trump wants back on the top of the ticket.

McConnell, who had a falling out with Trump during the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election, said, 'Look, I'm going to support the nominee of our party for president, no matter who that may be.'

He added that he believed having Trump's name on the ballot could help Republicans in some states.

'Whether you are a Trump fan or a Trump opponent, I can't imagine Trump if he's the nominee not doing well in West Virginia, Montana and Ohio,' McConnell said.

At the same time, McConnell didn't mention a slew of important states that rejected Trump in 2020: Pennsylvania, Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin and Michigan - all which have Senate races next year.

'We do have the possibility of screwing this up and that gets back to candidate recruitment,' McConnell acknowledged. 'I think that we lost Georgia, Arizona and New Hampshire because we didn't have competitive candidates. And Steve Daines and I are in exactly the same place  that starts with candidate quality.'
Stauch is said to have been resentful about being used as a babysitter

Gannon was stabbed 18 times, then shot in the head and dumped over a bridge

A Colorado woman has been found guilty of murdering her 11-year-old stepson and dumping his body in a suitcase.

Letecia Stauch was found guilty on Monday of murder in the first degree, guilty of murder of a child under 12, guilty of tampering with a deceased human body and guilty of tampering with physical evidence in the death of 11-year-old Gannon.

Stauch, who worked as an elementary school teacher for special needs children, will be sentenced later on Monday afternoon.

Prosecutors say she killed Gannon because she was resentful about being used as a glorified babysitter. She Googled the phrase 'I hate my stepson.'

Gannon Stauch's stepmother Letecia was found guilty of his January 2020 murder

Stauch stabbed Gannon 18 times before beating him across the head four times and shooting him in the jaw in January 2020, 'obliterating' the young boy's skull, according to prosecutors.

She killed Gannon while they lived in El Paso County, in the youngster's bedroom.

Stauch then hid his remains in a remote area nearby, and later rented a van to drive the little boy's body to Florida, where she dumped it under a bridge in Pensacola.

It wasn't found until March, around three months after he vanished.

The killer stepmom had tried to blame mental illness on her behavior, with her defense attorneys claiming she'd suffered a 'psychotic crack.'

Leticia Stauch is pictured in court in Colorado in March 2020

Stauch is pictured with Gannon's father Eugene, also known as Al. He was away on deployment with the National Guard at the time of Gannon's murder

Her attorneys claimed it was the result of sexual abuse she'd suffered as a child.

But prosecutors said the extent of Gannon's injuries showed that she acted with intent, and that she was mentally-competent when she killed him.

Prosecutor Dave Young told the court: 'What does that tell you? Use your common sense. Its not psychotic. Its just strategic.'

Distressingly Gannon tried to fight off his killer stepmom despite being drugged with hydrocodone, prosecutors say.

Stauch is said to have wanted to end her marriage to Gannon's father, Al.

Prosecutors say a photo she snapped of Gannon laying in his bed on the morning of his murder was further evidence of the fact she'd pre-meditated the plot.

Gannon (pictured) disappeared in Colorado Springs in January 2020. His body was found on March 20, 2020 - 1,400 miles away in Florida

Stauch is accused of hitting Gannon with a blunt object, stabbing and shooting him before dumping his body in a suitcase

She texted it to Al, who was away serving with the National Guard at the time.

They say she used it to try and cover her tracks, by claiming she'd left Gannon in bed to go for a hike, only to come home to find he'd vanished.

After killing Gannon, Stauch scrubbed the walls and floors of his bedroom, then put her bloody shoes and clothes in the washing machine.

Prosecutors said this was further evidence that her crimes were pre-meditated.

District Attorney Michael Allen said of Stauch's crimes: '(Gannon) deserved to live. He deserved to grow up and become a young man and someday have a family of his own. She took it all away.'
Numerous panicked bystanders called in to 911 as ex-Marine Daniel Penny fatally grappled with erratic homeless man Jordan Neely on the New York City subway, police records showed.

The New York Police Department received their first call reporting a fight on the F train at 2:25pm on May 1, with another report coming in a minute later.

At 2:27 pm two more calls were received - one telling of 'threats' being made on the train, and the other describing a rider 'armed with a knife or gun.' A call reporting an assault in progress was placed at 2:29pm, and at 2:30pm a second call reporting somebody making threats on the F train was made.

According to Fox News, those calls were merely a 'summary' of the many calls placed to police during the altercation between Neely and Penny. The NYPD told DailyMail.com they 'responded to multiple 911 calls' as the incident played out at the Broadway-Lafayette Street station.

Penny placed Neely in a chokehold as he menaced passengers, complaining that he was hungry and was ready to die or go to jail for life. The death has divided the city about whether Penny - who has not been charged with anything - is a killer or a hero.

NYPD officers on attempt to revive Jordan Neely as he lies on the floor of an F train

Officers outside the F train while the body of Neely is prepared to be moved to a hospital

Police said they arrived on the scene by 2:30pm and began administering CPR on Neely, who had gone limp in Penny's grip by then.

The New York Fire Department was called for assistance at 2:39pm, and they arrived less than ten-minutes later at 2:46pm.

Neely was then taken to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead. A medical examination revealed he died from compression of the neck, according to Fox News. It remains whether Neely died on the subway, or finally succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

It also remains unclear exactly what time Penny first put Neely in a chokehold or how long he held him. Some witnesses have reported Penny had his arm around Neely's neck for up to 15 minutes before he lost consciousness, according to NBC New York.

Neely, 30, was homeless, schizophrenic and 'self-medicating with K2' - a potent synthetic cannabis - before his death, according to members of his family.

Penny, 24, was detained and questioned by police after the incident, but was released on the grounds that he had been acting in self-defense.

His lawyers released a statement defending his actions, saying that he 'could not have foreseen [Neely's] untimely death,' and noted Neely's long criminal record which includes two incidents of randomly punching strangers on the subway.

In the face of outrage over Penny's release - which included politicians like Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez calling the death a 'murder' - a grand jury is expected to be impaneled this week to decide whether to press charge.

After being warned that Neely could die, Penny (left) and the other man who helped restrain him (right) continued to restrain him for several more seconds. He jumped up when Neely became unresponsive

Daniel Penny grapples with Jordan Neely on the floor of the F train on May 1

The protesters blocked an incoming Q train at the station. They are wanted for criminal trespassing over the protest

Protestors on the tracks at a subway station on the Upper East Side in New York City

In their statement, Penny's attorneys said he was trying to protect others from a mentally unstable and unpredictable stranger.

'Earlier this week Daniel Penny was involved in a tragic incident on the NYC Subway, which ended in the death of Jordan Neely. We would first like to express, on behalf of Daniel Penny, our condolences to those close to Mr. Neely,' the press release began.

'Mr. Neely had a documented history of violent and erratic behavior, the apparent result of ongoing and untreated mental illness. When Mr. Neely began aggressively threatening Daniel Penny and the other passengers, Daniel, with the help of others, acted to protect themselves, until help arrived. Daniel never intended to harm Mr. Neely.'

'For too long, those suffering from mental illness have been treated with indifference. We hope that out of this awful tragedy will come a new commitment by our elected officials to address the mental health crisis on our streets and subways,' the statement concluded.

Neely's family were not impressed with Penny's statement, and said he belongs in prison.

'Daniel Penny's press release is not an apology nor an expression of regret,' they said. 'It is a character assassination and a clear example of why he believes he was entitled to take Jordan's life.'

'He knew nothing about Jordan's history when he intentionally wrapped his arms around Jordan's neck, and squeezed and kept squeezing. His actions on the train and now his words show why he needs to be in prison.'

They also begged Mayor Eric Adams to make contact with them.

'The family wants you to know that Jordan matters,' they said. 'You seem to think others are more important than him. You cannot "assist" someone with a chokehold.'
A 'gun for hire' who was jailed after carrying out a gangland assassination has been stabbed in the head and neck in prison.

Mark Fellows, 42, dubbed The Iceman, was attacked for a second time at the maximum security HMP Wakefield on Saturday.

The double murderer was treated by prison medics. He was left with a scar after a similar attack in 2019.

Fellows was the hitman contracted in 2015 to take out a leading figure in a rival gang, Paul Massey, 55, using an Uzi sub-machine gun.

Dressed in army fatigues, he peppered Massey with shots and then pursued his target up the driveway of his home in Clifton, Salford, to finish him off.

Professional hitman Mark Fellows, 42, has been stabbed in the head and neck at HMP Wakefield

Dubbed 'monster's mansion', HMP Wakefield is a high security prison housing some of Britain's worst offenders

Known as Salford's 'Mr Big', Massey was one the city's most notorious and feared figures but he died on his own doorstep.

Three years later, Fellows murdered Massey's associate from Liverpool, John 'Scouse' Kinsella, 53. The hitman cycled up to his target near the village of Rainhill in Merseyside as his target walked his dogs. The assassin shot him twice in the back and then calmly approached his stricken victim to shoot him twice more in the back of the head.

Fellows was handed a rare whole-life term in January 2019 following 26-day trial which ended with him being convicted of two counts of murder.

Jailing him, Mr Justice William Davis said: 'So far as is known you had no personal animus in relation to Paul Massey.

'The only sensible conclusion is that you were a gun for hire prepared to kill whoever you were asked to kill by those who hired you.'

He was handed a 'whole life' term, which means he cannot apply for parole and will probably die in prison. Just two weeks after he shot dead Massey, Fellows was shot in the backside outside his grandmother's house.

Mark Fellows in the Great Manchester Run, 2015. The data from his Garmin watch help to convict him of Paul Massey's murder

Known as Salford's 'Mr Big', 55-year-old Paul Massey was one the city's most notorious and feared figures but he was murdered on his doorstep in 2015

Just a month after he was jailed, Fellows was attacked with a razor blade inside HMP Whitemoor in Cambridgeshire. He ostentatiously stroked the scar he was left with when he appeared in court later in 2019 in an unsuccessful bid to challenge his whole life tariff.

It is understood the latest attack on Fellows happened at HMP Wakefield in Saturday as the country was celebrating the coronation of King Charles.

Local media learned he was stabbed to the back of his head and neck in the prison grounds. He wasn't in his cell.

His injuries were not serious and he was treated by prison medics. He was not taken to hospital. An investigation into the attack is underway.

A Prison Service spokesperson said: 'We have a zero tolerance approach to violence and will always take strong action against those who break these rules.'
Police say the suspect is 'still outstanding'

No other injuries were reported and all of the students were accounted for

An adult was shot at the Ed Von Tobel Middle School in Las Vegas at around 12:30pm and was transported to a local hospital

A Las Vegas middle school was put on 'hard lockdown' after a male member of staff was shot at the school.

Around 12:30pm on Monday, Las Vegas Metro police reported a shooting at Ed Von Tobel Middle School on N. Pecos Road.

Officials said the adult male was struck by gunfire and taken to the hospital. There are no other injuries reported, Metro police said, and the school has been cleared.

Police are now hunting for the suspect, who they described as 'still outstanding.' But authorities said there is no further threat at the time.

'This was not an active shooter,' authorities said at a news conference, explaining that investigators have determined that the shooting was an 'isolated incident.'

Authorities have not yet identified the victim, but he is said to be in stable condition. The suspect has not yet been identified.

Parents eagerly awaited news as their children remained under lockdown at the Ed Von Tobol Middle School on Monday

Authorities say an adult was shot on the school's campus, but no other injuries were reported

Las Vegas Metro Police say they believe the shooting was an isolated incident

In a letter to parents, Principal Leonardo Amador said: 'The safety of our students is the number one priority at Von Tobel Middle School.

'As always, we want to keep you informed of important issues happening within our school community.

'The school has been placed on a hard lockdown due to a police investigation,' he said. 'Students are safe in their classroom.'

Under a hard lockdown, a school must lock all of its doors and students must hide until they are released.

All the students have been accounted for, police said, and Clark County School District Police said they will be conducting a 'controlled release' of the students as parents were pictured eagerly awaiting any news outside.

Two nearby elementary schools were also placed on lockdown.

All of the students were accounted for, police said, and will be released from the school

In a statement, the Clark County Education Association said it was not surprised by the shooting on Monday given the lack of security at schools.

It said: 'Our hearts go out to the adult injured this afternoon in the shooting at Von Tobel Middle School, and we hope for their speedy recovery.

'We are deeply saddened by this news, but, unfortunately, we are not surprised. The lack of safety in our schools is nothing short of a crisis, and with hundreds of deadly weapons confiscated already on CCSD campuses this school year, CCEA has been loud and clear that we believe this situation was a school shooting waiting to happen.

'We have been loud and clear that our governor and our lawmakers must act with urgency to address this crisis in the current legislative sessionbefore an event like the one that happened occurred.

'We are fortunate that no one was killed in the shooting today, but we cannot afford continued inaction, and we should not expect to be so fortunate the next time,' the group continued.

'There are currently two pieces of legislation before the legislatureAB285 and AB330which are designed to curb this violence in our schools.

'Both bills passed out of the Assembly with overwhelming bipartisan support and are awaiting hearings in the Senate.

'We urge a swift passage of these bills so we can finally ensure that every bus, every classroom, and every campus in CCSD are safe, for our students and staff alike.'
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre tried her hand Monday at attacking the House Republican and former President Trump's border wall  on a day when the feds are preparing for an even greater crush of migrants at the southern border.

Jean-Pierre tied together White House attacks on the House GOP budget, on the eve of President Joe Biden's meeting with Republican leaders and a looming debt ceiling deadline that has raised the specter of default.

With that potential crisis looming, she recycled earlier White House Office of Management Budget warnings that the House GOP budget would lead to cuts in U.S. Border Patrol agents.

'Earlier this month, House Republicans voted to fire 2000 Border Patrol patrol agents, and this week, they're taking up a bill that would once again demonstrate that House Republicans are more interested in campaigning on immigration, that's actually solving it,' she said.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre took on Donald Trump's border wall and a House GOP budget bill Monday, days before Title 42 border restrictions are set to end

Biden is set to sit down with congressional leaders about the budget on Tuesday at 4 pm, just as financial markets close  with few signs that the two sides are moving any closer together.

Jean-Pierre was referring to H.R. 2, which would among other things, force the Biden administration to resume border wall construction.

'The bill, H.R. 2, would be a disaster for border security and a Christmas morning gift for human smugglers,' she said. 'It would lead to more unlawful migration by blocking off lawful pathways to protection it would trample on our nation's core values and international obligations and a boon to dictators around the world. And instead of providing the needed resources for more border security technology, and asylum officers and judges, it would waste taxpayer dollars on an ineffective wall.'

Then she tore into the wall some more. 'Again, an ineffective wall that can't even withstand heavy winds, let alone sophisticated criminal smuggling networks. If the President presented with HR to he would veto it,' she said.

Jean-Pierre appeared to be referring to an incident from January 2020, when a section of border wall fell onto some trees along the U.S.-Mexico border. There were no injuries, and it is believed the section fell amid 30 mile per hour gusts while concrete was still setting.

The White House OMB also trashed the GOP bill in a new Statement of Administration Position, saying it 'makes elements of our immigration system worse.'

Jean-Pierre appeared to be referencing a January 2020 incident when a section of border wall fell down

The administration claims that cuts in the proposed House GOP budget would lead 2,000 border control agents to be let go

Jean-Pierre took a shot at former President Trump's border wall. A group of Mexican migrants cut through a section in March 2021

House conservatives have hit back at White House characterizations of the budget, withe House Freedom Caucus chair Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) accusing the White House of 'smear and fear.'

The tussling came just before another Trump Administration aspect of border policy  Title 42 restrictions  was set to fall.

With Title 42 gone, the new watchword will be Title 8 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

It gives those seeking asylum the ability to participate in a 'credible fear' interview with an officer or judge.

If they fail it, they could soon be back on a plane to their home country or Mexico through expedited removal proceedings. Otherwise, they can begin the lengthy process of seeking asylum.
Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell exchanged a slew of sappy texts, making plans for their future, just 24 hours after the alleged cult leader's wife was suffocated to death, it was revealed in court on Monday afternoon.

FBI agent Doug Hart testified that in early October 2019, the pair were secretly planning on going on a date when Daybell texted Vallow 'big news' that his then-wife Tammy Daybell had 'switched' and that a demonic entity had entered her body.

Weeks later, on October 19, Tammy suddenly died in her sleep. Her cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation and not a heart attack, as previously believed.

Roughly 24 hours after her death, Vallow and Daybell texted about missing each other, as he told her, 'it is baby night so come get me later.'

Hart, who has been on the stand in Vallow's trial testifying about what was uncovered in her seized iCloud account, said that 'their relationship is the driving force behind the crimes that are alleged in this case.'

Lori Vallow (pictured) and Chad Daybell exchanged a slew of sappy texts, making plans for their future, just 24 hours after the alleged cult leader's wife was suffocated to death

Chad and Tammy Daybell pictured before she was murdered in October 2019

Vallow, 49, and Daybell, 54, are accused of murdering her kids JJ, 7, and Tylee, 16, in September 2019. The following month they allegedly killed his wife Tammy. The pair married two weeks later on the beach in Hawaii.

Vallow is accused of conspiring to murder Tammy Daybell and has pleaded not guilty to that charge.

On October 3, 2019, before Tammy's death, Daybell texted Vallow gushing how excited he was to go on a date with her. The next day, texts revealed she had told her brother Alex Cox about going on the date.

'We are supposed to go on a real date tonight, but we are discussing it,' she wrote. 'So excited to go on a real date tonight we are discussing it. Perhaps an evening at home would be better so we're not out and about.'

But Daybell then texted Vallow with 'big news' about his wife Tammy.

'Hello sweet angel. Big news about tammy. Please let me know if you're awake'

He went on to write: 'Tammy has been switched. Tammy is in Limbo, and a level 3 demonic entity named Viola is in her body.'

'Not fully sure of the timing for removal, but once her actions verify the differences, I don't want to wait.'

In the 24 hours after Tammy died, Daybell and Vallow already texting, telling each other how much they miss them, and talk about spending their lives together.

'I'm feeling sad, but it isn't for the reason everyone thinks,' Daybell wrote the morning after his wife's death.

Daybell sent Vallow a text about the death percentages, Hart revealed on the stand, then went off on how much he missed her.

'Percentage in body - Holsor 24, Ukola 11, Grisome 14. Great job on lowering them,' he texted Vallow.

Earlier texts had revealed how the pair created a twisted percentage scale to show how close her kids - and others - were to death.

'I loved talking with you. It is baby night so come get me later,' he added. 'Missing you so much. I can feel you in bed with me, though. Can't wait to hold you tightly every day and night.'

A giddy Vallow responded: 'I'm missing you more!! I need you desperately! I can't wait! That would be great. What about the idea of you coming here Thursday or Friday. Or do u want me to come home?'

The texts continue with the pair discussing their future plans, a move to Hawaii and Daybell's plan to 'tighten the abs, get a full-body tan, grow my hair out.'

'This could be really good for both of us,' he added, with Vallow replying: 'I love that plan.'

Earlier on Monday, Hart's testimony revealed that the couple talked about causing pain to children and 'giving them a reason to scream' if they act up, in chilling texts before her kids were killed.

The two children were last seen alive that September. At the time, JJ was just 7 and Tylee was a few days short of her 17th birthday. Their bodies were found the following June, buried in Chad Daybells yard.

Tylee, 16, and JJ, seven, are shown with their uncle, Alex Cox, in what is believed to be the final photo of them, taken during a family trip to Yellowstone National Park on September 8, 2019

The children's bodies were discovered in shallow graves on Daybell's property on June 9, 2020 - nine months after they vanished

The key individuals in Lori Vallow's tangled family tree, including her five husbands, two dead children and killer brother

In the texts from the seized iCloud accounts belonging to Vallow, showed she texted Daybell about her niece's children being possessed in July 2019.

In another exchange, Daybell - the alleged leader of their doomsday cult - told her he had 'turned up the pain' on her daughter Tylee and 'placed a spiritual virus in her.'

In July 2019, Vallow took a trip with her niece Melanie Boudreaux and her two children who Daybell referred to '3s' in the texts. Her son JJ was also on the trip, but it is not known if Tylee was there. The '3s' refers to the couple's twisted rating system for 'dark' people they believed were possessed.

Daybell had sent a text to Vallow asking if she wanted him to 'cause pain' to the two 3s she was riding with.

Vallow told Daybell to hold off, but added if they started acting up again, 'we can zap them.' Daybell agreed and said: 'If they are going to act up, we'll at least give them a reason to scream.'

Hart told the Ada County Courthouse in Boise that the 'references to hurting children and giving them a reason to scream are relevant.' He confirmed that he never saw any messages that depicted Vallow protesting the harm of anyone.

Hart, who took the stand last week, has told jurors that messages between the pair show that they were plotting the killings of her then-husband Charles Vallow, her kids, and Daybell's wife.
The force was threatened with legal action after no charges were brought

Scotland Yard has expressed 'regret' over the arrests of six anti-monarchy protesters ahead of the King's coronation after being threatened with legal action when no charges were brought.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith on Monday demanded a 'full inquiry' into who authorised the arrests that prevented the group expressing their dissent during the 'disgraceful episode'.

The Metropolitan Police issued a lengthy defence as it confirmed Mr Smith and five others have been told they face no further action after being arrested on Saturday and bailed.

Mr Smith described it as a 'disgraceful episode' and added legal advice is being sought. He also said a chief inspector and two other officers from the Met had apologised to him personally at his home in Reading on Monday evening.

Mr Smith said: 'I had three officers at my door personally apologising and handing the straps back to me. They were a chief inspector and two other officers from the Met. They seemed rather embarrassed to be honest.

Protesters hold up placards saying 'Not My King' in Trafalgar Square this morning

Graham Smith, chief executive of campaign group Republic, was among those arrested. He described it as a 'disgraceful episode' and added legal advice is being sought

'I said for the record I won't accept the apology. We have a lot of questions to answer and we will be taking action.'

The force said it had arrested the group under new powers after it was believed items found alongside a large number of placards could be used as 'lock on devices'.

READ MORE: 'NOT MY KING' EMBLAZONED ON BANNERS AS PROTESTERS TURN UP AT CORONATION Protesters hold up placards saying 'Not My King' in Trafalgar Square this morning Advertisement

'The investigation team have now fully examined the items seized and reviewed the full circumstances of the arrest,' The Met statement added.

'Those arrested stated the items would be used to secure their placards, and the investigation has been unable to prove intent to use them to lock on and disrupt the event.

'This evening all six have had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken. We regret that those six people arrested were unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route.'

Earlier today, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the Metropolitan Police over Coronation arrests as the force faces a probe over its 'heavy-handed' treatment of protesters.

The PM shared his gratitude for Scotland Yard after Saturday's operation to crackdown on crime during the crowning of King Charles.

He backed its decisions to make a total of 64 arrests, adding that officers 'make these decisions based on what they think is best'.

His thoughts come after Caroline Russell, who chairs the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, suggested it was 'really worrying' that some arrests had been made, in a move campaigners feared infringed of people's right to free speech.

Speaking with broadcasters in Hertfordshire, Mr Sunak said: 'The police are operationally independent of Government, they'll make these decisions based on what they think is best.

Police were seen scouring vans with hundreds of Not My King banners

Just over 30 people were arrested for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance. Pictured, one activist is taken away on The Mall

A Republic activist is questioned and searched by police following protests on The Mall

A police officer searches a woman following protests by Republic activists

'Actually I'm grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely. That was an extraordinary effort by so many people and I'm grateful to them for all their hard work.'

He later added: 'No other country in the world could put on such a dazzling spectacle and it was a proud expression of our history, our culture, our tradition and also a reflection of the modern character of our country.

READ MORE: Animal Rising vows to invade the Grand National course with 300 activists moments before the Grand National Advertisement

'It was deeply moving to be in the coronation service and incredibly uplifting and it was an experience I think nobody will forget for the rest of their lives.'

Earlier today, Scotland Yard confirmed that a total of 64 arrests were made during King Charles' Coronation, with four people charged.

Dozens were arrested during the crowning of His Majesty on Saturday as Scotland Yard clamped down on those suspected of causing trouble in London. Breach of the peace, sexual assault and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance were among the various grounds for arrest on the day.

Several Just Stop Oil protesters were arrested in addition to members from Animal Rising groups who were also linked to the Grand National chaos last month. Campaigners of the anti-monarchist group Republic, including its chief executive Graham Smith, were apprehended during the day too.

On BBC's Today programme, Ms Russell expressed that some of these arrests were 'very odd'.

Her concerns come after the arrest of two women and a man following accusations of a plot to throw rape alarms at horses during the Coronation.

She said: 'It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because they'd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms.'

A protester holding up a 'Not My King' sign during a demonstration on the day of the Coronation

Scotland Yard also arrested 14 people for the breaching the peace on Saturday

A protester wearing a yellow 'Abolish the Monarchy' T-shirt is searched by police officers

Scotland Yard revealed that 32 people were arrested for conspiracy to cause a public nuisance, who have all since been bailed.

Another 14 others were arrested for a breach of peace who have since been bailed.

Among others bailed include a person arrested for handling stolen goods, another on suspicion of sexual assault and another individual arrested for common assault.

Just four people of the 64 arrests made have so far been charged with offences, Scotland Yard said yesterday evening.

Ms Russell continued: 'It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Met's safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

'The Police and Crime Committee, we question the mayor, Mopac (Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime) and the Metropolitan Police, we meet every fortnight, so of course we will be questioning this because I'm sure members of all parties will want to have their questions answered.'

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has also demanded 'clarity' from the force's leaders on the arrests.

Yesterday however, Chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation Ken Marsh said he was 'flabbergasted' that officers were facing a backlash on clamping down on those who allegedly sought to ruin the historic occasion.

He claimed that officers had 'foiled a number of scenarios' - including defacing public monuments with paint, breaching barriers and disrupting official movements.

Met Police officers also shared they arrested three people in Soho on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance at around 2am on the morning of King Charles' Coronation.

The force revealed that numerous rape alarms were seized and that three people were taken to a south London police station for further questioning.

Metropolitan Police arrests come amidst concerns surrounding the right to protest in the UK. A man is apprehended by police on Saturday

Caroline Russell, who chairs the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, suggested that it was 'really worrying' that some arrests had happened

Anti monarchy protest material being confiscated by police in central London

A 47-year-old man among the group was also further arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A statement read: 'There was particular concern from military colleagues that this would scare their horses involved in the procession and, as a result, cause significant risk to the safety of the public and the riders.'

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan also added: 'The intelligence we received led us to be extremely worried about the potential risk to public safety. We are aware of and understand there is public concern over these arrests. However, the matter is still under investigation.'

Patrick Thelwell - who tried to egg the King during a visit to York on November 9 last year - was also arrested on Saturday. The 23-year-old was convicted of threatening behaviour at York magistrates court last month and sentenced to a 12-month community order with 100 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay 600 in court costs.

Meanwhile, two people were charged for possession of class A drugs during the royal event on Saturday, while another was charged under Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

The Prime Minister shared his gratitude for Scotland Yard after Saturday's operation to crackdown on crime during the crowning of King Charles

Scotland Yard charged the final person with a 'religiously aggravated offence' under Section 5 of the Public Order Act.

All those charged will appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court over the course of this month.

Following arrest concerns, Commander Findlay added: 'We absolutely understand public concern following the arrests we made this morning.

'Protest is lawful and it can be disruptive. We have policed numerous protests without intervention in the build-up to the Coronation, and during it.

'Our duty is to do so in a proportionate manner in line with relevant legislation. We also have a duty to intervene when protest becomes criminal and may cause serious disruption.

'This depends on the context. The Coronation is a once in a generation event and that is a key consideration in our assessment.

'A protest involving large numbers has gone ahead today with police knowledge and no intervention.'

But denying that police had got it wrong, yesterday Ken Marsh told MailOnline: 'I cannot believe what I'm hearing this morning with all the criticism of the police. I'm flabbergasted.

'Did one of the biggest global spectacles we've ever had not go off impeccably without a hitch? Yes it did, and it did so due to the bravery and vigilance of the thousands of my colleagues who kept the public safe yesterday.

'There were heightened levels of anxiety going into the Coronation at what was being by planned by who but it passed off peacefully and without disruption because of quick-thinking police work.'

Also in defence of the Met was Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer, who insisted that the Met Police got the 'balance right' and that she trusted the police to use new laws to prevent disruptive protests.
Boris Johnson 'squared up' to Charles after he branded the Government's Rwanda scheme 'appalling', it was claimed last night.

In an extraordinary clash last year, the ex-PM allegedly rounded on the then Prince of Wales and warned him against interfering in politics.

The 15-minute showdown at a Commonwealth summit in Rwanda in June followed revelations in the Mail that Charles had privately described the plan to deport Channel migrants to the African state as 'appalling'.

At the time, No 10 denied there had been a row, with Mr Johnson saying only that the two men had had a 'good old chinwag'. And last night, friends of Mr Johnson said he did not recognise the account and that it was 'inaccurate'.

In a bombshell revelation in a new podcast called Unprecedented, for Global Player, No 10's former director of communications Guto Harri says the then PM told him he 'went in quite hard' against the future King over his decision to wade into the highly sensitive political matter.

He also reveals that Mr Johnson warned Charles against making a speech expressing regret over slavery, telling him it could open up demands for reparations.

The King, when he was Prince of Wales, allegedly branded the Government's controversial Rwanda scheme 'appalling'

Boris Johnson 'squared up' to Charles after he branded the Government's Rwanda scheme 'appalling', it was claimed last night

The bombshell reveltation comes from former No 10 communication director Guto Harri, who made the claim on a new Global Player podcast Unprecedented. Pictured: Mr Johnson and Guto Harri in 2014 at the former PM's book launch

The warning was ignored and the speech went ahead.

Writing in the Mail today, the former BBC journalist reveals that the meeting between the then PM and future King at last year's Commonwealth Heads of Government summit was 'less amicable' than it was painted at the time. 'Boris briefed that the two had 'a good old chinwag' and had 'covered a lot of ground',' he writes.

'What actually happened was less amicable. 'I went in quite hard', he told me at the time, essentially squaring up to the prince and confronting him about what he  as unelected royalty  had said about the actions of a democratically elected government.

'Prince Charles was busted. He had obviously expressed some criticism, and though he tried to play it down, Boris pointed out the obvious, [saying]: 'If you didn't say it we both know your people could ring the newspapers and kill the story. The fact they haven't done that says it all'.'

Mr Harri suggests the two men had struggled to get on for years, with Charles never forgiving Mr Johnson for being late for a meeting when he was London mayor.

He says the bust-up in Rwanda was the final straw, adding: 'Relations never fully recovered and Charles will be relieved that Boris had left No 10 before he ascended to the throne.'

The revelations threaten to reopen controversy about the extent to which the new King will interfere with politics. As Prince of Wales, Charles was accused of meddling in government affairs  such as with his 'black spider' letters to ministers and other officials, which were eventually made public under Freedom of Information laws.

Mr Harri suggests the two men had struggled to get on for years, with Charles never forgiving Mr Johnson for being late for a meeting when he was London mayor. Pictured: Then Prince Charles shakes hand with former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Rwanda 2022

Mr Harri also revealed that Mr Johnson warned Charles against making a speech expressing regret over slavery, telling him it could open up demands for reparations

Five years ago, he pledged to stop interfering when he became monarch. When asked if he planned to reign as King in the same interventionist way, he replied: 'I'm not that stupid. I do realise that it is a separate exercise being sovereign. So, of course, I understand entirely how that should operate.'

His intervention on Rwanda last year infuriated ministers, coming at a time when the Government was facing fierce criticism from Labour and human rights lawyers. Clarence House did not dispute that Charles had criticised the plan in private.

Ministers insist the plan to send Channel migrants to Rwanda to have their asylum claims processed is the only way to break the business model of the criminal gangs who profit from the trade in human misery.

But the policy has not yet come into force, following legal action and an intervention by the European Court of Human Rights.

Last night, sources close to Mr Johnson said: 'This account is simply inaccurate and does not reflect the conversation that took place. Boris Johnson has had nothing to do with this podcast, had no knowledge of it and deplores any attempt to report such conversations in public.'

Friends of Mr Johnson added that he deeply disapproved of the leaking of conversations with the heir to the throne and would never do so himself. Buckingham Palace declined to comment last night. But a royal source said the King was 'extremely mindful' of his new constitutional role.

Global Player's new political memoir podcast series, Unprecedented, gives an exclusive first-hand account of Mr Harri's time as director of communications in Downing Street. Each episode is available exclusively on Global Player every Thursday and on other platforms every Friday.
Charles pressed ahead with a speech on slavery despite a warning from Boris Johnson that it risked opening the door to claims for massive financial reparations, it was claimed last night.

Former No 10 communications director Guto Harri alleged Mr Johnson was 'appalled' when the then-Prince of Wales told him last year he was planning to argue for a 'deeper understanding of slavery's enduring impact'.

The then-PM warned him that it could open up the Royal Family to claims for reparations. But the future King told Mr Johnson it was a 'conversation whose time had come'.

He ignored the prime minister's warning and pressed ahead with the undiluted speech later that day.

Details of the reported clash at last year's Commonwealth Heads of Government summit in Rwanda are revealed in a new six-part podcast called Unprecedented, for Global Player, in which Mr Harri documents the final months of Mr Johnson's premiership.

Dispute: Then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson (left) and Charles (right) in Rwanda in June last year

Mr Harri says the discussion came during a 15-minute row between Charles and the then-PM at the summit. The two men had already clashed over Charles's criticism of the Government's plan to send Channel migrants to Rwanda.

Writing in today's Mail, Mr Harri says: 'Seeking to move on, the Prime Minister sought to compare notes on the speeches they were both due to deliver at the summit.

'Boris was planning an upbeat tribute to the success of so many Commonwealth countries in growing their economies and consolidating their democracies, heralding the potential benefits for them and the UK in a post-Brexit world.

'The prince was about to argue for a "deeper understanding of slavery's enduring impact". It was, he said, "a conversation whose time has come".

'The PM was appalled. And warned the prince in plain English, "I wouldn't talk about slavery or you'll end up being forced to sell the Duchy of Cornwall to pay reparations to those whose ancestors built it".

'Relations never fully recovered and Prince Charles will be relieved that Boris had left No 10 before he ascended to the throne.' Charles, who was representing the Queen at the summit, continued with the speech to Commonwealth leaders shortly afterwards.

He revealed he was on a personal journey of discovery, saying he wanted to 'deepen my own understanding of slavery's enduring impact'.

The future King said he was aware that the roots of the Commonwealth 'run deep into the most painful period of our history'. He added: 'I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many.'

Last month, Buckingham Palace announced it was cooperating with a landmark study into the British monarchy's involvement with the transatlantic slave trade. The Palace said the King took the issue 'profoundly seriously'.

The research is expected to analyse previous monarchs' involvement with slave trading companies, including the Royal African Company and its deputy governor, Edward Colston, whose statue was thrown into Bristol harbour by anti-racism protesters.

Boris Johnson (left) with Former No 10 communications director Guto Harri (right) at the launch of the the politician's book The Churchill Factor in 2014

The King's support for the academic work, carried out by the University of Manchester with Historic Royal Palaces, was welcomed by researchers and campaigners.

But it led to immediate calls for reparations. Arley Gill, chairman of the National Reparations Commission of Grenada, said: 'The Royal Family must make repair and atonement for the people and societies that would have suffered because of their involvement in the slave trade.

'Reparations now cannot be a subject that can be swept under the royal rug.'

Last month, The Guardian published research suggesting that direct ancestors of the King had owned slaves on tobacco plantations in Virginia in the 17th century.

Buckingham Palace last night declined to comment.
The King and Queen are to take a break at Sandringham this week as they recover after the weekend of celebrations.

Charles, 74, has one engagement today before he joins his wife for some well-deserved rest and relaxation at their private Norfolk estate.

They will take the rest of the week off and possibly a few days early next week.

But aides are already busy planning a packed schedule in the run-up to their summer break, including the annual Order of the Garter ceremony and visits the length and breadth of Britain.

There is also expected to be a short state visit abroad in autumn  possibly their rescheduled trip to France, which had to be cancelled at the 11th hour in March due to civil unrest there.

The King and Queen are to take a break at Sandringham this week as they recover after the weekend of celebrations

The King and Queen pictured on the grounds of Sandringham in December 2019

A long-distance foreign visit is also on the cards, with the King confirmed to travel to Samoa in the South Pacific next year for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Situated halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii  almost 10,000 miles away  it will be a gruelling journey for Charles, who will be 75 by then. The Queen will be 76.

It is therefore likely he may try to fit in stop-overs in Australia and New Zealand, both countries where he is still head of state and are long overdue for a senior royal to visit. More immediately, the King has several major public engagements planned but details cannot be revealed yet.

The Queen is also planning her first Reading Room Festival at Hampton Court Palace in west London next month now that her Instagram book club has become a charity promoting literacy.

Sources have said the couple are delighted their CoronaFANtion went so well, despite the inclement weather on Saturday, and were 'thrilled' to see so many people enjoying the weekend's celebrations.

But they are said to be ready for a few days 'out of the spotlight'.

While the King, like his late mother, never stops working  dealing with the 'red boxes' of state on a daily basis  he considers Sandringham a 'tonic'.

Meanwhile, the Prince of Wales told one helper at a Big Help Out event in Slough yesterday that his children were 'so tired' after the Coronation weekend that he was worried he would have 'trouble getting them up for school' today.

Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis stole the show over the bank holiday weekend at many public events.
Two Texan sisters shot and killed in Saturday's mass shooting at an Allen mall have been pictured, as a disturbing picture emerges of the swastika-tattooed gunman sharing white supremacist and neo-Nazi posts online.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, shot and killed eight people, and injured seven more, before he was killed by police.

On Monday, photos of two sisters he murdered were published - Daniela Mendoza, 10, and her 8-year-old sister Sofia.

Their mother, Ilda Mendoza, remains in critical condition.

Daniela Mendoza, 10, and her 8-year-old sister Sofia (right) were among eight people shot and killed at the Allen outlet mall in Texas on Saturday

The girls were killed and their mother, Ilda, seriously injured. They are pictured with their father, Alex Mendoza

Both sisters took cheerleading classes at Wylie Elite gym in Wylie, 13 miles from the mall.

'Two of the victims who were sisters, and who lost their lives this past weekend, not only took classes at Wylie Elite, but are nieces to one of our team families,' the gym posted on Facebook.

'Our hearts are broken for these families. They have shared that one of their favorite colors was yellow.

'To honor these young ladies, we want everyone to wear yellow this week. Also please be praying for all of the families affected.'

The girls attended Cheri Cox Elementary School - Daniela in the fourth grade, and her sister in second grade.

The principal, Krista Wilson, described them as 'rays of sunshine.'

The district sent a letter to parents and students detailing the 'heartbreaking situation' impacting one of its elementary campuses.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, shot and killed eight people on Saturday at a Texas mall

Garcia had a swastika and SS lightning bolts tattooed onto his body

Medical City Healthcare said it continues to treat six patients at three hospitals from the shooting.

Three are in critical condition, two patients are in fair condition and one patient is in good condition.

The girls were not the youngest victim.

Three-year-old James Cho, his mother, Cindy, and father, Kyu, were also killed.

James' 6-year-old brother, William, survived the shooting, according to officials.

William had celebrated his 6th birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries.

Family members have now confirmed that the schoolboy has been moved from ICU, and it is thought that he is one of the youngest injured in the attack.

A GoFundMe for the Korean family has raised nearly $200,000 of their $50,000 goal, and described their 'deep mourning.'

Cindy, 35, Kyu, 37, and James Cho, 3, (pictured) were all shot dead following the rampage in Allen, Texas, on Saturday. Their eldest son, William (bottom left) survived the incident

William (left) had celebrated his 6th birthday just four days before the tragedy and was also rushed to hospital with severe injuries

They said: 'An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left eight victims dead.

'After being released from the ICU, their six-year-old son William is the only surviving member of this horrific event.'

Dental colleagues of Cindy paid tribute to her as 'one of the kindest, happiest, most genuine people.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com the family had been killed in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area.

Family members told the South Korean consulate in Dallas that the victims are U.S. citizens, according to Myoung Joon Kim, head of the Consulate in Dallas.

He said: 'The Korean consulate joins the people of the Dallas-Fort Worth area to express our deepest condolences for the victims and their family members.

'We pray for the victims and their family members for their healing and recovery.'

The Korean Consulate in Dallas confirmed to DailyMail.com that the family had passed away in the shooting, adding that they were trying to contact relatives not in the area. Pictured: The couple with their eldest as a baby

Shoppers leave as law enforcement officers respond to the mass shooting in the Dallas area's Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday

Christian LaCour, 20, (pictured) who worked as a security guard at the mall, was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified yesterday

Engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, 27, and Christian LaCour, 20, who worked as a security guard at the mall, were also killed in the massacre.

Thatikonda, originally from Hyderabad, India, had been shopping for her upcoming birthday when she was one of the nine shot dead - including the shooter.

She moved to Dallas two years ago to work as a Project Engineer at Perfect General Contractors, was shopping with her friend at the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday morning.

'She was very friendly and very loving,' a family representative told WFAA, adding that Thatikonda's friend was injured in the shooting and is currently stable in the hospital.

On Monday, the final victim's name was confirmed as Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32, from Dallas.

LaCour was the first victim of the mass shooting to be identified, with his grandmother Sandra Montgomery describing him as a 'beautiful soul'.

'My beautiful grandson, Christian LaCour, was the security guard killed in the shooting at Allen, Texas. He was such a beautiful soul,' she wrote.

The gunman, Mauricio Garcia, was dressed in SWAT gear with a semi-automatic rile at his side. He is seen laying dead outside another Allen store, a dozen feet from the H&M shop

Aishwarya Thatikonda (pictured), who is originally from Hyderabad, India, was identified as one of the nine killed in the massacre - including the shooter - by a family representative today

Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after the gunman shot multiple people

MacKenzie Bates embraces her mother Rochelle where flowers were left at the scene of the shooting

In another tribute post shared Sunday, one person who is friends with LaCour's family said he was a 'very sweet gentleman.'

Kellie Smith said she considered herself lucky to have 'watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman,' the woman wrote on Facebook.

'Their will forever be a void. Please uplift his family in prayer as they navigate this unimaginable time of their lives.

'Christian you will always remain close to us because we will keep you in our hearts until we see you in Heaven,' Smith wrote.

A bouquet of flowers is left in front of the Allen Premium Outlet Mall entrance in remembrance of those killed during the mass shooting that happened the day before in Allen, Texas

Multiple victims have been reported after an active shooter opened fired at an outdoor outlet mall - with one of the gunmen now reportedly dead and another still at-large

Garcia was shot and killed by a police officer during the shooting Saturday afternoon and officials are investigating whether he had an interest in white supremacist or neo-Nazi ideologies.

A law enforcement official said federal agents had been reviewing social media accounts and believed Garcia had expressed an interest in neo-Nazi views.

He had tattoos of a swastika and a SS lightning bolt, plus a patch on his chest reading RWDS - an acronym for Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have searched a home connected to the suspect  believed to be where his parents live - and a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying.

The motel room contained multiple weapons, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Dashcam footage showed the moment a gunman opened fire and killed multiple civilians - as cops are reportedly on the hunt for a second gunman believed to have aided in the assault

The front entrance of a home connected to suspected mall gunman, Mauricio Garcia

Footage showed the moment those first shots rang out, in which the gunman is seen pulling up to the store.

Dashcam video showed the gunman getting out of a car and shooting at people on the sidewalk on Saturday afternoon. More than three dozen shots could be heard as the vehicle that was recording the video drove off.

Garcia was using an AR-15-style gun during the mass shooting, and was dressed in full tactical SWAT gear.

Investigators confirmed they believe shooter Garcia was working alone, but they have not yet released any motive for the killings.
Australian airlines could soon be forced to pay passengers compensation for delayed or cancelled flights.

Four organisations have all separately raised the idea of a compensation scheme with the government as it considers its aviation white paper due to be released next year.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), consumer advocate Choice, the Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA) and advocacy group Consumer Champion all claim Australia's laws are a 'long way behind' the rest of the world.

Australia is currently 'lagging behind the rest of the world' in terms of compensation for passengers for delayed or cancelled flights

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission revealed: 'In July 2022, 6.4 per cent of domestic flights were cancelled and a record 46 per cent of domestic flights were delayed'

They point to the European Union's airline laws - where passengers who arrive with a delay of over three hours are entitled to between 250 ($405) and 600 ($970) each, depending on the distance of the trip - as a model for the Australian government to consider.

In the EU, longer delays mean passengers can opt to be refunded, which must be repaid to them within seven days.

However, the rules do not apply if flight disruption can be blamed on something outside the airline's control, such as weather, medical emergencies or air traffic control restrictions.

Whereas, in Australia, different airlines offer differing compensation schemes.

Consumer advocates are calling for the Australian government to adopt the EU model, which sees airlines forced to pay compensation if flights are over three hours late

And although the Australian Consumer Law applies, there are no flight-specific rules around the amount of compensation paid or the timeframe.

Adam Glezer, founder of consumer advocacy group Consumer Champion, told Daily Mail Australia he had brought Australia's paltry flight compensation cover to the attention of the government back in 2020.

'The reality is Australia is a long way behind other countries,' he said.

'Until we actually have consequences for airlines delaying or cancelling flights willy-nilly then nothing will change.'

Mr Glezer said passengers would be 'lucky to get $15 in food vouchers to spend in the airport' if their flight was delayed or cancelled.

'The Australian government, whether its Liberal or Labour, has repeatedly put off and ignored the issue despite them being well aware of the desperate need for changes to be implemented,' he added.

The ACCC outline in their March submission to the aviation white paper that in the post-pandemic period, Australian 'consumers experienced extensive cancellations, delays and mishandled bags'.

Adam Glezer, founder of consumer advocacy group Consumer Champion, said : 'Until we actually have consequences for airlines delaying or cancelling flights willy-nilly then nothing will change'

'In July 2022, 6.4 per cent of domestic flights were cancelled and a record 46 per cent of domestic flights were delayed,' the commission wrote.

It added: 'Some advocates have called for consumer protection measures to be introduced in Australia that set out more specific consumer compensation entitlements for delayed or cancelled flights.'

Current laws effectively allow airlines to sell tickets that do not guarantee departure times, which means there are little to no repercussions if they cancel flights last-minute.

'There is currently no real incentive for airlines not to cancel or delay flights  there is no obligation to deliver a service,' Jodi Bird, Choice Australia's money and travel expert told The Guardian.

Mr Bird aid compensation offered by Australian airlines is often buried in terms and conditions, which means passengers are not aware of what they can access.

'Typically in Australia, if your flight with a cheaper carrier is delayed you might get a voucher, which at the airport can buy you a coffee if you're lucky,' he said.

Bird said that while the EU model 'is very clear and consistent across airlines so people know what they are entitled to', the US and Indonesia also have forms of regulated compensation, meaning 'Australia is really lagging behind the rest of the world here'.

'Australian airlines don't seem to care much about customer service after they've sold you the ticket, and something like this would mean they'd have to,' he said.

Separately, the ALA has also urged the Albanese government to include a compensation scheme as part of its aviation white paper.

'The lack of compensation for flight delays and cancellations in Australia puts us behind much of the world when it comes to protecting travellers rights.

'Rather than Australian passengers having to jump through legal loopholes to receive flight delay compensation, in the rare instances where it is available, it is time for Australia to have its own simple and straightforward compensation regime,' the ALA told The Guardian.
A wannabe hip hop artist accused of stabbing to death a beloved family man in front of his wife had been free in the community on bail over serious gun allegations.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal Spencer Shumski, 20, of Sale had been facing weapons charges when police allege he stabbed Clint Allen to death in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Mr Allen, 38, had been celebrating his wife Bek's 37th birthday when he was allegedly confronted by Shumski outside The Criterion Hotel in Sale, Victoria, about 200km east of Melbourne.

Spencer Shumski was charged with murder amid allegations he stabbed to death a stranger

Spencer Shumski, 20, of Sale performs under the name NP Benzey

Clint Allen, 38, his wife Bek (pictured together) and three others were outside The Criterion Hotel in Sale, Victoria when they were allegedly approached by Shumski

Dressed in a black suit and white shirt, Shumski appeared in the Sale Magistrates' Court on Monday via video link from the Morwell Police Station cells.

He had been due to appear in court on Tuesday over the alleged firearm offences, which are now expected to be consolidated into his next court appearance in August.

While the circumstances of those offences remain unknown, Magistrate Julie O'Donnell agreed to revoke his bail immediately.

Shumski's lawyer John Sullivan did not contest the decision and made no further application for bail.

'If I could I would,' he told the magistrate.

The court heard Shumski had never spent a day behind bars until now and he did not suffer any condition that might affect him while caged awaiting justice.

The circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Mr Allen were not revealed in court.

Daily Mail Australia has learnt Shumski was a wannabe musician and photographer, who has posted music videos online under the stage name NP Benzey.

Some of Shumski's lyrics talk about traditional teenage angst, such as lost love, drugs and violence.

'You know I take drugs on my own. I'm consistently feeling alone. Wish somebody would come let me know. Everything will be fine just be strong,' he sings on his track 'Love Deep'.

In another track, titled 'Memories', Shumski sings about becoming famous.

'I've been thinking bout. What I wanna do next. I've been thinking bout. My face on on the big screen. My life like a movie. Makin these big moves in the booth with scooby. Layin back with a rack rollin' up a dubie,' he sang.

Spencer Shumski, 20, of Sale has been charged with murder

Clint Allen (pictured) was a BMX champion and an outdoor enthusiast who loved camping, dirt bikes and 4WDs

Clint Allen (pictured with his wife Bek) was stabbed to death as the couple walked home after celebrating her birthday

In a social media post spruiking one of the tracks, Shumski's proud father addressed his concern about some of the lyrics.

'Spencers newest song and V-Clip - Maybe not exactly the lyrics a parent prefers to hear but honest and passionate... Its so important to to be supportive and attempt to lead by example while our teenagers are working out who they are and how this world work,' he wrote in 2020.

Mr Allen, his wife Bek and three others were reportedly outside the pub when they were approached by Shumski, who had been a complete stranger to them.

The group made a frantic call to police about 1am, with officers arriving to find Mr Allen severely wounded at the York-MacAlister intersection.

Despite desperate efforts to revive Mr Allen while waiting for paramedics to arrive, he could not be saved.

Mr Allen's devastated family said he was just walking home after the night out.

His distraught stepdaughter, Makala Lister, who is six-weeks pregnant, said the beloved BMX champion and an avid outdoorsman, who loved camping, dirt bikes and 4WDs, would be sorely missed.

'Clint was an amazing husband, father and grandfather to his unborn granddaughter,' she told the Herald Sun.

'He was loved by everyone who met him and was always up for a chat no matter what topic.'

'He will be forever missed and loved from everyone he came in contact with.'

Spencer Shumski, 20, of Sale in a music video clip he produced three years ago as a teenager

Spencer Shumski, 20, rapped about drugs and violence

The Criterion Hotel in Sale beame the scene for a horrific stabbing attack that left one man dead

Other family members hit out at Mr Allen's killer.

'F**k this world they let the cruel ones get away and they take the ones that r good away sadly last night one of the best people I know was taken to early that you will never be forgotten I wish the best for Bek Allen and Clint Allen family he should still be here #justiceforclint,' one relative posted to social media.

'You were taken way to soon. Thank you for showing me all the stupid things we use to do as kids,' another friend posted.

'Thanks for showing me how to sneak to the milk bar while we were "mowing the lawns".'

The incident has angered Sale residents, who claimed the town had become littered with 'crazies' when the sun set.

One Sale resident said the town's main street was 'not safe at night anymore' and that he was also threatened with a knife recently.

'I walked home from work the other night at 11pm and there was crazies swearing and waving knives at me in Raymond St near the banks,' Tez Leeson said on social media.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Faced with an ever-changing whirl of new brands popping up on our televisions, smartphones and laptop screens - it's easy to overlook the hidden meanings in many of their designs.

But the emblems from some high street names are devised in such a clever way they deserve a closer look.

South Korean tech giant LG certainly has a trademark to match its cheerfully-named forebears, The Sun reports.

Born from the merger of its parent companies Lucky and Goldstar in the 1980s, LG's logo is made up of a burgundy-colored circle resembling a round face.

South Korean tech giant LG certainly has a trademark to match its cheerfully-named forebears

Inside the circle, an L can be spotted as its nose, encircled by a large G giving the impression of a smile.

A dot in the middle even looks like an eye, altogether creating the effect of a happy face.

A brand expert said: 'These hidden messages help LG to appear more approachable and inviting.'

According to LG itself, the letters 'L' and 'G' in a circle symbolize the world, future, youth, humanity, and technology.

A company spokesman said: 'Our philosophy is based on humanity. Also, it represents LG's efforts to keep close relationships with our customers around the world.

'Red, the main color, represents our friendliness, and also gives a strong impression of LG's commitment to deliver the best. Therefore, the shape or the color of this symbol mark must never be changed.'

Have you ever felt that the LG on your electrical appliance was smiling back at you?
From spent rocket boosters to dead Soviet spy satellites, the sheer volume of space junk floating above our heads is scarcely believable.

What's even harder to comprehend is that these 'ticking time bombs', as some of the debris has been dubbed, have all clogged up low-Earth orbit in less than 75 years.

With more and more satellites being launched every day  including thousands from the likes of billionaires Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos  it is clear to see why governments and space agencies around the world are panicking.

It's only going one way  and a terrifying interactive map reveals the scale of the problem.

That's why treaties are hurriedly being drawn up by space-faring nations, while innovative start-ups are trying to come up with clever ways to remove all the junk left behind from sending probes, people and satellites into space since the 1950s.

Concern: MailOnline takes a look at the biggest debris up there, and when we need to watch out for it. This still image, from the satellite monitoring and collision detection firm LeoLabs, shows the space junk that is currently circling the Earth

Fascinating: You can scroll around the world and zoom in and out to see the debris floating over your country, while the LeoLabs even reveals the biggest culprits of putting it up there

The map, which has been put together by satellite monitoring and collision detection firm LeoLabs, shows the space junk that is currently circling Earth in real time.

HOW MANY ITEMS ARE THERE IN ORBIT? Rocket launches since 1957: 6,380

6,380 Number of satellites in orbit: 15,430

15,430 Number still in space: 10,290

10,290 Number still functioning: 7,500

7,500 Number of debris objects: 33,050

33,050 Break-ups, explosions etc: 640

640 Mass of objects in orbit: 10,800 tons

10,800 tons Prediction of the amount of debris in orbit using statistical models Over 10cm: 36,500

36,500 1cm to 10cm: 1,000,000

1,000,000 1mm to 1cm: 130 million Source: European Space Agency Advertisement

From Elon Musk's Starlink satellites, to old Russian and Chinese rocket boosters and bits of debris from previous collisions, details are available in terms of the name of the rocket body, payload and debris, as well as its Perigee and Apogee (when it is closest to or furthest away from our planet).

LeoLabs uses ground-based phased array radars  one in Alaska, one in Texas, two in New Zealand and two in Costa Rica  to monitor low Earth orbit.

This allows the California-based company to track and measure any object that flies through its observational area.

Its tracking system is also able to detect objects as small as 2 cm across, as opposed to the much larger 10 cm objects followed by others.

You can scroll around the world and zoom in and out to see the debris floating over your country, while the LeoLabs even reveals the biggest culprits of putting it up there.

The nation responsible for the most junk is the US, which is probably not surprising given NASA's success in the field of rocket launches and exploration, as well as the rising number of private American firms like Musk's SpaceX putting satellites in space.

It has 8,497 objects such as rocket bodies, payloads and debris in low-Earth orbit, according to LeoLabs.

Russia is next with 4,836, followed by China with 4,047. These three major players in space dwarf all other nations, although of course Europe has the European Space Agency (ESA) rather than individual countries putting up rockets.

Relative newcomers India and Japan are responsible for 143 and 142 objects, respectively.

Musk has faced intense scrutiny over his Starlink constellation.

The satellites provide low-latency, high-speed internet at an affordable cost  often to remote areas without existing WiFi  and last year expanded to yachts, cruise ships and RVs.

But critics say his venture is hogging space, with both China and the European Space Agency taking aim at the billionaire.

The Tesla founder has rubbished these fears, insisting that 'tens of billions' of spacecraft can orbit close to Earth and dismissing claims that his firm is 'squeezing out rivals in space'.

Despite his reassurance, data shows that over half of all close encounters in orbit between objects are caused by SpaceX Starlink satellites  even with just 4,000 of a planned 12,000 launched so far.

Analysis: The nation responsible for the most junk is the US, which is probably not surprising given NASA's success in the field of rocket launches and exploration, as well as the rising number of private American firms like Musk's SpaceX putting satellites in space

It has also applied for approval to add another 30,000 on top of that.

Bezos is also planning to put thousands of satellites into low-Earth orbit as part of Amazon's Project Kuiper.

The project aims to provide broadband connections using a constellation of 3,236 satellites.

But satellite operators such as SpaceX are constantly forced to make adjustments to avoid encounters with other spacecraft and pieces of debris.

With thousands of Starlink satellites in orbit, the number of dangerous approaches will continue to grow, according to a study by the University of Southampton.

Researchers found that Starlink satellites are involved in an average of 1,600 close encounters with other spacecraft every week, including some where the two objects come within about half a mile of each other.

ESA estimates that there is more than 10,800 tons of space junk currently orbiting the Earth, including 200 so-called 'super-spreaders'.

These are large rocket bodies that have the potential to break into thousands of pieces and in turn create what is known as Kessler syndrome.

Quite a surprise: Farmer Mick Miners (pictured) discovered a huge piece of space junk from SpaceX stuck in his property in the Snowy Mountains, south of Jindabyne last year

Massive: In April 2022, a 10ft-wide metal ring reportedly belonging to a rocket launched into space by China a year ago crashed down in an Indian village

The problem with China's rockets is rooted in the risky design of the country's launch process. Usually, discarded rocket stages re-enter the atmosphere soon after lift off, normally over water, and don't go into orbit. But the Long March 5B rocket (pictured) does

This is a theoretical effect involving a runaway chain reaction of collisions that could create a cascade effect where each collision generates space debris that increases the likelihood of further collisions.

WHAT IS BRITAIN DOING ABOUT SPACE JUNK? The UK government last year announced a raft of new measures designed to drive sustainability in space and help clear up the millions of shards of debris clogging up near-Earth orbit. The measures include an 'Active Debris Removal' programme, which involves launching a new spacecraft to physically collect and destroy pieces of space junk floating around the Earth. The project, which will receive 5 million in funding from the UK government, is set to launch in 2026. It is not a new idea  private space companies such as ClearSpace and Astroscale are already building spacecraft to capture debris in near-Earth orbit. However, they are focused on removing just one bit of junk at a time. Britain wants to launch a spacecraft that is capable of capturing two dead satellites and forcing them back into Earth's atmosphere so they burn up. If successful, the first-of-its kind feat would prove that a single spacecraft can remove more than one piece of debris. The spacecraft could also potentially remain in orbit around the Earth, and be refuelled so that it can tackle more junk. Advertisement

The phenomenon was popularised in the 2013 film Gravity, starring Sandra Bullock.

Such is the enormity of the space junk problem, scientists have even warned there is a 10 per cent chance that a person could be struck and killed by a falling spacecraft or spent rocket booster within the next decade.

Swift action is therefore required to clean up the Earth's orbit, as well as to ensure future projects minimise their footprint through recyclable manufacturing, retrieving satellites and mitigating any debris.

An estimated 15,430 satellites have been launched into orbit since 1957, according to the European Space Agency, with 10,290 remaining in space and 7,500 still functioning.

The total mass of all objects in orbit is said to equate to around 10,800 tons, while statistical models suggests there are 130 million pieces of debris from 1mm to 1cm in size.

Some of the biggest objects of concern are spent Russian rocket boosters launched between 1992 and 2001.

They include 18 examples of the nine-ton, 36ft (11m)-long upper stage of a Russian Zenit rocket, which are currently lurking in what has been termed a 'bad neighbourhood' around 520 miles (840km) high.

'They're like a big yellow school bus without a driver, without brakes,' said Darren McKnight, a senior technical fellow at LeoLabs.

There has also been a lot of controversy over China's Long March 5B rockets, which are of great concern due to their size.

Just last year, there were warnings that debris from one out-of-control Long March booster could come down over a populated area.

Fortunately it crashed to Earth over the Indian and Pacific oceans, but this rocket will not be the last of its kind that causes alarm.

Britain wants to launch a spacecraft that can remain in orbit and remove multiple pieces of debris, forcing them to burn up in Earth's upper atmosphere, as depicted in this graphic above

Jonathan McDowell, an astrophysicist at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, told MailOnline the Long March 5B boosters were among 'the most worrying' because they are so large.

The problem with China's rockets is rooted in the risky design of the country's launch process.

Usually, discarded rocket stages re-enter the atmosphere soon after lift off, normally over water, and don't go into orbit. But the Long March 5B rocket does.

There have been calls by NASA for the Chinese space agency to design rockets to disintegrate into smaller pieces upon re-entry, as is the international norm.

But Beijing has previously rejected accusations of irresponsibility, with the Chinese Foreign Ministry saying the likelihood of damage to anything or anyone on the ground is 'extremely low'.
When it comes to your child's eating habits, there is a science to ensuring they do not become fussy eaters.

Some children are susceptible to sensory properties of food, such as odor and texture, which could be off-putting and send them on a path to food refusal.

UK parenting expert and child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed told DailyMail.com that the best way to avoid picky eating is 'Veg-Led Weaning', the idea of incrementally building up children's tolerance for bitter veggies as they move to solid foods.

Babies are born with a love for sweetness but lack a taste for savory and bitter foods.

Some children are susceptible to sensory properties of food, such as odor and texture, which could be off-putting and send them on a path to food refusal

'It is about starting the weaning journey with a variety of veggies to help your baby taste a variety of very new flavors,' said Stirling-Reed.

'Once you have offered some single tastes of veggies, it is about broadening out and gently and gradually offering more variety, including some proteins, fruits and carbohydrates, while still providing plenty of veggies too.'

The American Academy of Pediatrics says children around six months can start changing from purees to solid foods.

However, foods that are only blended, mashed or soft-cooked are recommended. And this includes cereals.

When a child is seven or eight months old, they can eat various foods from different food groups.

'Introducing solid foods is such an exciting time, but for many, it can also be a time of confusion and anxietywhich is exactly why I do the work that I do to try and offer families confidence when it comes to feeding their babies those very first foods,' Stirling-Reed, who is a Sunday Times best-selling author of 'How to Wean your baby' and 'How to Feed Your Toddler, said.

'There is a new concept in weaning that I like to refer to as Veg Led Weaning. It's about starting your baby's weaning journey with veggies.

'Vegetables are a great idea to offer a safe, cheap and convenient first food for baby which are easy to prepare and help to provide your baby more taste explorations.'

Vegetables are also packed with complex carbs, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants essential to your baby's development.

Stirling-Reed explained that parents should focus on balanced meals when their baby reaches 10 months.

She suggested offering a carbohydrate, protein, vegetable or fruit and some type of dairy as one meal.

'You may need to adapt the meals for younger babies and toddlers, but you can still offer them balanced family options,' said Stirling-Reed.

Parenting expert and child nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed told DailyMail.com that the best way to avoid picky eating is 'Veg Led Weaning.' She recommends the Tripp Trapp high chair so your baby feels like they are eating with the family

For example, spaghetti Bolognese includes beef (or lentils), tomatoes, pasta and often a little cheese. Curry usually includes rice, vegetables and chicken (or chickpeas), but you might need to mash, chop or cook food a little more for younger babies and toddlers.'

READ MORE: Studies show you CANNOT hold your baby too much Not only does holding your little one close keep them warm, but it curbs crying, regulates breathing and heart rate, helps with weight gain and improves growth. Advertisement

However, she is not blind to the fact that food refusal is still on the table.

'This is really common and most families go through periods of food refusal. However, they have weaned their child. Thats OK,' said Stirling-Reed.

'Remember that childrens appetites are naturally up and down, so some days they eat more and others much less.'

She provides ways to cope with food refusal, such as accepting their appetite cure.

If your child does not want to eat a particular dish, accept it and do not push them.

Research has shown that force-fed children usually have lower weights and increased picky eating.

Another way to navigate refusal is to eat with your child.

'I am a big fan of trying to bring them into your family mealtimes and offer them similar foods and meals (albeit perhaps slightly adapted for baby) to what youre eating as a family,' said Stirling-Reed.

'This is why I love the Stokke Tripp Trapp as it allows that to happen and helps babies get familiar with the style of eating for your family.

'This means that as they get older and into toddlerhood, they are more likely to accept your family meals and family cooking if they have been offered it and are familiar with it from a young age.'

She also encourages parents not to bring attention to their child's picky eating because that usually prolongs the behavior.
Apple devices are unaffected - but the firm has issued its own security update

Android users have been urged to delete 'malicious' apps from their phones that have been secretly signing them up for paid subscriptions.

Security firm Kaspersky found 11 apps on the Google Play Store with snazzy designs and logos that are actually a devious new type of malware, called Fleckpe.

The apps, which are mostly related to photo and video editing, have names including Photo Effect Editor and Beauty Slimming Photo Editor.

While they've now been removed from Google Play, they have already been installed on more than 620,000 devices worldwide and been used to take users' money without permission.

Although Apple devices are unaffected because they use a different app store, the tech giant recently had to issue a security update of its own.

The apps, which are mostly related to photo and video editing, have names including Photo Effect Editor and Beauty Slimming Photo Editor

According to Kaspersky, this particular new type of malware is being distributed as a Trojan  a type of seemingly innocuous software that later reveals its malicious intent.

DELETE these Android apps from your device - com.impressionism.prozs.app - com.picture.pictureframe - com.beauty.slimming.pro - com.beauty.camera.plus.photoeditor - com.microclip.vodeoeditor - com.gif.camera.editor - com.apps.camera.photos - com.toolbox.photoeditor - com.hd.h4ks.wallpaper - com.draw.graffiti - com.urox.opixe.nightcamreapro Advertisement

In response to the report, a Google spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We take security and privacy claims against apps seriously, and if we find that an app has violated our policies, we take appropriate action.

'Users are also protected by Google Play Protect, which can warn users or block identified malicious apps on Android devices.'

Kaspersky has provided a list of the 11 apps' package names  the code that uniquely identifies each one on devices and the Google Play store.

Anyone with the 11 apps installed on their phone or tablet should delete them without delay, because they sign users up to a paid subscription option without their knowledge.

'Every once in a while, someone will come across malicious apps on Google Play that seem harmless at first,' said Dmitry Kalinin, developer at Kaspersky, in a report.

'Some of the trickiest of these are subscription Trojans, which often go unnoticed until the user finds they have been charged for services they never intended to buy.

'This kind of malware often finds its way into the official marketplace for Android apps.

'Our latest discovery, which we call "Fleckpe", also spreads via Google Play as part of photo editing apps, smartphone wallpaper packs and so on.'

Kaspersky thinks this particular malware has targeted users from Thailand, although there have also been victims in Poland, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.

Security firm Kaspersky found eleven Fleckpe-infected apps on Google Play that have been installed on more than 620,000 devices

Kaspersky has provided a list of the apps' package names  the code that uniquely identifies each one on devices and the Google Play store

Data suggests the Fleckpe malware has been active since 2022, and although the apps have since been removed from Google Play, they will still be present on thousands of Android devices.

READ MORE: Apple issues a iOS rapid security update Apple issued the first of a new type of security update to iPhones, iPads and Macs Advertisement

'All of the apps had been removed from the marketplace by the time our report was published,' Kalinin said.

'But the malicious actors might have deployed other, as yet undiscovered, apps, so the real number of installations could be higher.'

The expert described how each of the apps secretly installs a payload that is able to open a paid subscription page in an 'invisible' web browser.

The Trojan opens the page in this browser and attempts to subscribe on the user's behalf without them knowing.

'The victim proceeds to use the app's legitimate functionality  for example, installs wallpapers or edits photos, unaware of the fact that they are being subscribed to a paid service,' Kalinin said.

In recent years, subscription Trojans like these have only gained in popularity with scammers, the expert concluded.

'Their operators have increasingly turned to official marketplaces like Google Play to spread their malware,' he said.

'Growing complexity of the Trojans has allowed them to successfully bypass many anti-malware checks implemented by the marketplaces, remaining undetected for long periods of time.'

Malware - a catch-all term for any type of malicious software - has been used to steal data, spy on citizens and attack national infrastructure (file photo)

'Affected users often fail to discover the unwanted subscriptions right away, let alone find out how they happened in the first place.

'All this makes subscription Trojans a reliable source of illegal income in the eyes of cybercriminals.'

Kalinin said Android users should 'be cautious with apps' even though they look legitimate and are on Google Play.

Users should also avoid giving permissions to apps that they 'should not have' and install an antivirus product capable of detecting this type of Trojans.

Some of these apps can even look legitimate but may have been hijacked so that they can be modified to steal private information.

According to another security firm called MalwareFox, cyber criminals can download apps from Google's store and manipulate them.

Last year, Google warned that a type of spyware  software that steals information from a device  was used by the Italian and Kazakhstani governments to spy on private messages.
Star called Fomalhaut is 25 light years away and 15 times as bright as our sun

Incredible new images from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) reveal a solar system in greater detail than ever before.

Fomalhaut is a star approximately 25 light years from Earth with a striking surrounding belt of dust that stretches out 14 billion miles.

Scientists have revealed that two innermost belts also surround the star, as well as a 'Great Dust Cloud', thanks to new data from the $10 billion telescope.

Researchers previously thought they found a planet around Fomalhaut, although it was later deemed to be remains of a cosmic collision.

However, detection of these new belts around Fomalhaut could be the strongest indication yet that it does have planets  possibly with alien life.

Fomalhaut is the brightest star in the southern constellation of Piscis Austrinus. Pictured is a new combination image of Fomalhaut with its belts

Fomalhaut has three belts  two outer and inner belts that were previously known about and one in the middle newly detected by JWST

A study describing the findings, led by Andras Gaspar at the University of Arizona, has been published today in Nature Astronomy.

Fomalhaut: Basic facts Distance from Earth: 25 light years Mass: 1.92 x that of our sun Age: 440 million years Known planets: 0 Constellation: Piscis Austrinus There are three belts around Fomalhaut: Two inner ones previously unknown and one outer, previously known Together these belts form a debris disk Advertisement

'Fomalhaut appears to be the site of a complex and possibly dynamically active planetary system,' they say.

The 440-million-year-old star has a mass around 1.92 times that of our sun and is located in the constellation of Piscis Austrinus, approximately 25 light years away.

Fomalhaut is one of the brightest stars in the night's sky  15 times as bright as our sun  and it is blazing through hydrogen at such a furious rate that it will burn out in just one billion years.

We now know that there are three belts around Fomalhaut: two inner ones that were previously unknown and one outer, previously known.

The outermost one extends out to 14 billion miles (23 billion kilometers) from the star  around 150 times the distance of Earth from our sun.

Fomalhaut's three belts together all form a prominent 'debris disk'  a surrounding cluster of cosmic dust, pebbles and other remnants from rocky collisions of the past.

For their study, the experts analysed images taken of the debris system around Fomalhaut using JWST's Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI), which sees light in the mid-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Images of Fomalhaut and its dust disk taken by individual sources including the Hubble Space telescope (HST) and its predecessor James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

Telescopes such as Hubble and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) have previously taken sharp images of the outermost belt. However, none of them found any structure interior to it

The images show the previously known outer ring in finer detail, which is considered 'analogous' or similar to our own solar system's Kuiper belt.

READ MORE: 'Planet' in Fomalhaut system is likely a giant dust cloud Illustration from Hubble of 'Fomalhaut b' expanding dust cloud Advertisement

This doughnut-shaped ring of icy objects extends just beyond the orbit of Neptune and a 'region of leftovers from the solar system's early history' NASA says.

But Fomalhaut's two newly discovered inner belts were also revealed by Webb in infrared light for the first time.

This is exciting for astronomers because it hints at the possibility that Fomalhaut is analogous to our solar system, and that it may have planets like ours.

'The belts around Fomalhaut are kind of a mystery novel  where are the planets?' said study author George Rieke, US science lead for Webb's MIRI instrument.

'I think it's not a very big leap to say there's probably a really interesting planetary system around the star.'

The 'narrow' belt in the middle may be shepherded by the gravitational influence of unseen planets, suggesting the presence of a world in the gap between belts.

The newly discovered intermediate belt is also 'misaligned' compared with the outer belt and may have been the origin of a previously known dust cloud generated by a collision.

The images also reveal a large dust cloud within the outer ring, which the authors name the 'Great Dust Cloud'.

This image shows the star Fomalhaut, which is 15 times as bright as our sun and is located 25 light-years from Earth. It is blazing through hydrogen at such a furious rate that it will burn out in only one billion years, 10 per cent the lifespan of our star

The Kuiper belt is the doughnut-shaped ring of icy objects that extends just beyond the orbit of Neptune in our own solar system (pictured)

The Great Dust Cloud may be evidence for a collision occurring in the outer ring between two 'protoplanets'  large bodies of matter in orbit thought to be developing into a planet.

So either there are planets that have been in development around Fomalhaut, or others that have already existed for millions of years.

Either way, Fomalhaut and our own system have notable similarities, according to the experts.

'I would describe Fomalhaut as the archetype of debris disks found elsewhere in our galaxy, because it has components similar to those we have in our own planetary system,' said Gaspar.

'By looking at the patterns in these rings, we can actually start to make a little sketch of what a planetary system ought to look like  if we could actually take a deep enough picture to see the suspected planets.'

High-resolution images are released of the Fomalhaut debris disk system from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST, depicted here in space)

Gaspar said Webb does have the capability to finally reveal planets around Fomalhaut thanks to its NIRCam, another one of its instruments.

NIRCam captures light from the edge of the visible through the near infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum.

'We have NIRCam data as well ... those are to be published soon. That's all I am going to say,' he told MailOnline.

JWST has proved a booming success and a huge step in the advancement in astronomical knowledge since it launched from Earth on Christmas Day 2021.

It revealed its first set of images in July 2022, including a dying star cloaked by dust and a 'cosmic dance' between a group of galaxies.

Other astonishing images released last year include the 'Pillars of Creation', Neptune's rings, a 'cartwheel galaxy' and a stellar nursery known as the Tarantula Nebula.
This is because women exude less energy than men and need less resources

NASA is set to launch a human mission to Mars in the 2030s and a new study suggests it should be an all-female crew because they are more efficient.

Researchers from the European Space Agency (ESA) found women use less oxygen, produce less carbon dioxide and require less food than their male counterparts.

The team simulated a 1080-day mission with four women astronauts and found they needed 3,736 pounds less food, saving more than $158 million.

Because Mars is about a seven-month journey from Earth, the study urges space agencies to consider the findings to reduce the mass and volume of food that must be launched and stored with the crew.

NASA is set to launch a human mission to Mars in the 2030s and a new study suggests it should be an all-female crew because they are more efficient

Men and women, however, are both vital in space and will be necessary for when humanity colonizes the Red Planet.

Approximately 622 people have launched into space, but only 72 are women.

NASA has sent a total of 355 people to space so far, of which some 55 have been women  or 15 percent. It has also sent 24 people to orbit the moon and 12 to walk on the lunar surface, who were all men.

Russian Valentina Tereshkova was the first woman to ever leave the earth's atmosphere  setting off in 1963.

And it was not until 1983, when Sally Ride launched to the International Space Station, did American women first visit the final frontier.

However, NASA is determined to put the first female astronaut on the moon in two years and will likely include women on the trip to Mars.

The new research suggests that NASA and other space agencies need to focus on all-female astronaut crews when it comes to long space missions.

The simulated 1080-day mission of the all-female crew shows because of their smaller stature, the group would free up eight cubic feet of space in the capsule.

Approximately 622 people have launched into space, but only 72 are women. And it was not until 1983, when Sally Ride (pictured) launched to the International Space Station, did American women first visit the final frontier

NASA astronaut Christina Koch was recently named the first woman to visit the moon when NASA's Artemis II mission takes off next year

This is about four percent of a 'Gateway' HALO module in NASA's proposed lunar orbit space station.

Scientists with the ESA analyzed oxygen consumption, total energy expenditure, carbon dioxide, heat production and water requirements of males and females on more extended spaceflight missions to see what the optimal astronaut would look like.

READ MORE: Who is Christina Koch? The first female NASA astronaut set to orbit the moon The avid surfer, rock climber and sailor was selected to become an astronaut in 2013. Advertisement

Male astronauts had a total energy expenditure rising by 30 percent, oxygen consumption rising by 60 percent, carbon dioxide production rising by 60 percent, and water requirements increasing by 17 percent.

Female astronauts had much better metrics across the board as their body size increased, with the most impacted figures equating to a 30 percent reduction.

NASA scientist Geoffrey Landis has long thought females are more fit for space.

In 2000, he said: 'Women are on average smaller than males: women use less oxygen, consume less consumables, produce less carbon dioxide.

'They have lower mass and take up less volume. The argument for an all-female crew is simple: such a crew would require considerably less support and allow a smaller spacecraft.

'This would produce a considerable savings in cost.'

NASA astronaut Christina Koch was recently named the first woman to visit the moon when NASA's Artemis II mission takes off next year.

The Grand Rapids, Michigan native, 44, is already the record-holder for the longest amount of time a woman has spent in space, 328 days, and for taking part in the first all-female spacewalk in 2019.

The Artemis II mission marks NASA's first trip to the moon in half a century, which is really a test for NASA's ultimate goal of sending humans to Mars.

The agency sent an empty Orion capsule around the moon last year before it returned to Earth in a long-awaited dress rehearsal.

If this latest mission goes well, then another flight to land people on the moon will be sent in 2025  as part of tests ahead of getting people onto Mars.
He's one of the most famous villains in literature, and now Lord Of The Rings' Sauron has lent his name to a new group of butterflies.

The black rings on the vivid orange wings of the flying insects are reminiscent of the all-seeing eye described in JRR Tolkien's books, and depicted in the movie series.

Scientists, including Dr Blanca Huertas, senior curator of butterflies at the Natural History Museum, have given the new genus the name Saurona.

While there are currently only two members of this new group  Saurona triangula and Saurona aurigera  many more as-yet-undescribed species are thought to exist.

Saurona is one of several new butterfly groups described by an international team of researchers in a new paper, and one of two named by Dr Huertas.

Scientists, including Dr Blanca Huertas, senior curator of butterflies at the Natural History Museum, have given the new genus the name Saurona

He's one of the most famous villains in literature, and now Lord Of The Rings' Sauron has lent his name to a new group of butterflies

Dr Huertas and a fellow researcher named the second genus Argenteria, which translates into English as silver mine, on account of the silver scales on the wings.

Dr Huertas said: 'Naming a genus is not something that happens very often, and it's even more rare to be able to name two at once.

'It was a great privilege to do so, and now means that we can start describing new species that we have uncovered as a result of this research.'

She added: 'Giving these butterflies an unusual name helps to draw attention to this underappreciated group.

'It shows that, even among a group of very similar-looking species, you can find beauty among the dullness.'

Experts suggest this interest can in turn yield research with important findings, including whether species are endemic to an area, or vulnerable to extinction.

The wider research was a culmination of a decade's worth of work to study the butterfly subtribe Euptychiina, carried out by a team of 30 scientists collaborating across the globe, including researchers from Natural History Museum London, Harvard University, Florida Museum of Natural History, and Zoological Research Museum Alexander Koenig.

The black rings on the vivid orange wings of the flying insects are reminiscent of the all-seeing eye described in JRR Tolkien's books, and depicted in the movie series

More than 400 different species were analysed, with the Natural History Museum's butterfly collections of more than 5.5 million specimens contributing significantly.

Researchers were able to use advances in DNA sequencing to identify similar-looking species not only by their appearance but also by their genetics.

While Saurona triangula and Saurona aurigera are the first butterflies named after Sauron, a dung beetle, a frog and even a dinosaur have been named after the villain, also in reference to the eye.

The findings are published in the journal Systematic Entomology.
Soft rubber, leather and even vegan leather among the worst for overheating

Sometimes what's protecting the outside of your phone can harm what's inside your device.

While plastic-, rubber- and silicone-based smartphone cases are great for absorbing shock from drops and keeping liquids out, these materials can act like insulation, retaining heat around your device like a warm sweater.

Fancy leather, and even vegan leather, phone cases can have the same effect.

This might be a good thing in frosty weather, but according to Apple's guidelines on maximizing battery performance, 'Charging your device when it's inside certain styles of cases may generate excess heat, which can affect battery capacity.'

While plastic-, rubber- and silicone-based smartphone cases are great for absorbing shock from drops and keeping liquids out, these materials can act like insulation, retaining heat around your device like a warm sweater. Fancy leather, and even vegan leather, phone cases can have the same effect

According to Apple, the iPhone and other iOS and iPadOS devices, including the Apple Watch, all work best at ambient temperature, between 32 to 95F (0 to 35C).

So, if you notice that your phone is getting hot while charging it, you might want to take it out of its case going forward.

According to Apple, the iPhone and other iOS and iPadOS devices, including the Apple Watch, all work best at ambient temperature, between 32 to 95F (0 to 35C).

When simply in storage, that range of 'comfort zone' temperatures is a little more generous, -4 to 113F (-20 to 45C).

But according to experts, Apple's engineers have designed their devices for peak performance at room temperature. The true sweet spot is between 62 to 72F (16 to 22C) whenever possible.

So, while even some of the thickest phone cases are not going to cause severe overheating all by themselves, they will contribute to overall heating alongside factors like the battery's age, the internal wear inside the battery, or just the weather that day.

Adrian Kingsley-Hughes, author of the The PC Doctor's Fix It Yourself Guide, conducted an experiment charging his iPhone 13 Pro Max in a variety of cases while inside a room with an ambient temperature of 62 F.

Kingsley-Hughes found that lower-power 5W charges managed to keep his iPhone in its 'comfort zone' no matter what phone case was used.

High-power USB-C chargers, however, showed signs of heating the iPhone a little too close for comfort, especially if he attempted to use the phone while it was still charging.

In general, he says that silicone cases kept the phone cooler than rubber cases.

His conclusion: downgrading to a slower 5W charger could help, whether in hotter climates or if someone doesn't feel like removing and reinserting their smartphone into its case constantly.

Overcharging or undercharging can also impact your phone's battery life.

Chinese manufacturer Huawei recommends users keep their device charged to between 30 and 70% for the best battery life. And Apple, in fact, has a special setting that will keep your phone from ever going about 80% to help prolong its battery life.

But when it comes to your phone's battery life and temperatures, the rule of thumb is simply to avoid extreme temperatures as much as possible.

As Apple's support site warns, 'Using an iOS or iPadOS device in very hot conditions can permanently shorten battery life.' For example 'Don't leave your device in your car because temperatures in parked cars can exceed this range.'
The sausages come from pigs that were altered to pass down elite DNA

The FDA approved the first sale of generically edited pork in restaurants

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the sale of genetically modified pigs at restaurants and grocery stores.

The altered pork, made as German-style sausages, was developed by scientists at Washington State University who used CRISPR to improve genetic traits in livestock.

The team used the gene-editing tool to pass elite DNA from one breeder to several others, which let more males pass on desirable traits and improve food production.

This process could produce livestock that can thrive in harsh conditions  and still provide adequate nutrition for people.

The altered pork, made as German-style sausages, was developed by scientists at Washington State University who used CRISPR to improve genetic traits in livestock

Jon Oatley, a professor at Washington State University(WSU), led the research and worked closely with the FDA to gain approval.

Oatley and his team used CRISPR on five pigs to demonstrate that food made from the animals is safe and that an academic institution can achieve this type of FDA authorization.

The two-year-old pigs were processed at the WSU Meat Lab, and the US Department of Agriculture inspected the meat as it does with all meat products.

The team edited the pigs to let them pass traits from another male down to other pigs.

Known as surrogate sires, this technology first gene-edits male animals to be sterile by knocking out a gene called NANOS2 specific to male fertility.

These animals can then be implanted with another male's stem cells, creating sperm with that male's desired traits to be passed on to the next generation.

Essentially a high-tech form of selective breeding, surrogate sire technology can greatly expand the dissemination of valuable genetics in livestock.

It has the potential not just to improve meat quality but the health and resilience of livestock in the face of changing environmental conditions, a critical goal for increasing protein sources in developing nations.

Oatley and his team used CRISPR on five pigs to demonstrate that food made from the animals is safe and that an academic institution can achieve this type of FDA authorization

The team used the gene-editing tool to pass elite DNA from one breeder to several others, which let more males pass on desirable traits and improve food production

READ MORE: Fury over plans for gene-edited 'Frankenfoods' to be sold UNLABELLED in UK Environment Secretary George Eustice insisted that gene-edited products would not need to be advertised as such because they are 'fundamentally natural.' Advertisement

Piglets born from the surrogate sires have not been approved for sale as of yet but will be reviewed by the FDA for possible inclusion in the food chain.

Approving the initial work took about two years and hundreds of thousands of dollars.

'The original intent in making these animals was to try to improve the way that we feed people,' Oatley said.

'And we can't do that unless we can work with the FDA system to get these animals actually into the food chain.'

WSU is the first organization to receive FDA approval for genetically altered pork, but a company named Acceligen obtained approval in 2020 for products made from 'Slick-Haired Cattle,' which are gene-edited to have coats that increase the animals' resilience to higher temperatures.

Oatley said that the public often holds many misconceptions about gene editing and hopes the WSU example will help dispel misinformation and improve perceptions of this technology.

'There's a trust that comes with university-based research,' Oatley said. 'At WSU, we're all about the science.

'We just want to ensure the research is valid and the animals we produce are healthy.'
The Holiday Guru is here to answer travellers' questions.

This week he tackles queries around the new Covid rules for travelling to the US, the Passport Office strikes, the best books for planning an Interrailing trip, easyJet's hand luggage allowance, and more...

Q. I have not been vaccinated against Covid, which has meant I have been unable to visit the United States recently. Its my favourite country and I love New York City. I hear that the rules are changing, so can I now go?

Anne Summerville, Glasgow

A. Yes, from Friday you will be able to visit the States whether youve been vaccinated or not. This coincides with the US declaring its public health emergency regarding Covid is over. The Biden administration says: We are in a different phase of our response to Covid-19 than we were when many of these requirements were put into place.

The US is reopening its borders to non-vaccinated travellers

Q. Could you confirm that travel to America using an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) is possible if you have visited Cuba before January 2021? There has been confusion about this.

Jen Smith, via email

A. If your trip to Cuba was before January 12, 2021, you will be able to get an ESTA (which costs about 17). However, if it was after, then you will need to apply for a tourist visa, which costs about 130. Further information is available at the USA travel page at gov.uk.

Q. What is the latest on the Passport Office strike?

Jennifer Bloom, Southampton

A. Thankfully, the strike over pensions and pay ended on Saturday. The Passport Office says it has been meeting its ten-week target for applications despite the industrial action, but it should now be easier to book in-person appointments for fast-track passports.

Q. When are the next train strikes?

Mrs Daniels, Manchester

A. The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) plans to walk out on Saturday, which will hit those planning to visit Liverpool for the Eurovision Song Contest. The Associated Society of Locomotive Engineers and Firemen (Aslef) will be striking on Friday and then on May 31 and June 3, the latter being the date of the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium.

Q. Im looking to travel to Turkey in mid-August and for a week in September. My childrens passports expire in May 2024. Is there enough time or will I have to renew them?

Emma Pearson, via email

Visitors to Turkey will need their passport to be valid for at least 150 days from the date of entry

A. The rules are you must have 150 days validity on your passport from the day you arrive in Turkey. You must also have at least one page blank for exit and entry stamps. See entry requirements for Turkey at gov.uk.

Q. I am thinking of going on an Interrail trip. Can you recommend a book for routes?

Daniel Thomson, Warrington

A. Europe By Rail: The Definitive Guide, by Nicky Gardner and Susanne Kries, covers 50 great journeys (Hidden Europe Publications). It would also be good to get a copy of Rail Map Europe, which shows rail lines (europeanrailtimetable.eu).

Q. Were flying from Bristol to Alicante with easyJet, but we are confused about the hand luggage allowance. EasyJet says measurements are 45cm by 36cm by 20cm, but our bag is 47cm by 20cm by 36cm. Is this OK? Also, can I take my handbag, too?

Sylvia Courtney, via email

A. Your bag would be too big under easyJets rules and you wouldnt be allowed an additional handbag. See easyjet.com.

WERE HERE TO HELP

If you need advice the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions. Email us at holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk.
In February, Rymir filed a Supreme Court motion requesting that the case be unsealed, accusing Jay-Z of keeping it under wraps to avoid a paternity test

Rymir Satterthwaite, now 30, has been entangled in a legal battle with Jay-Z, 53, for 10 years, over claims that the rapper is his biological father

The 30-year-old man who claims that he is the secret illegitimate son of Jay-Z has accused the world-famous rapper of abusing the legal system for more than a decade in order to avoid taking a paternity test.

Rymir Satterthwaite has been fighting to prove that Jay-Z - whose real name is Shawn Carter - is his biological father since he was 21 years old, and he is now taking that battle to the Supreme Court in an attempt to unseal the case and force Carter to take a DNA test.

Speaking to DailyMail.com about the latest twist in the roller coaster case, Rymir, from New Jersey, insisted that he wants nothing more than to see 'justice served' and that he will stop at nothing to ensure that happens.

He added that he wants nothing from the billionaire rapper - who has been married to chart-topping pop superstar Beyonce - other than for Jay-Z to acknowledge him as his son.

In a letter to DailyMail.com, Jay-Z's attorneys denied Rymir's claims, noting: 'The allegations have been previously reviewed thoroughly by the courts and have been refuted. I am sure that will be the outcome of whatever filings Mr. Satterthwaite is may be currently considering.'

Jay-Z's alleged illegitimate son Rymir Sattherthwaite (seen in 2015) has sent a motion to the Supreme Court, accusing the rapper of abusing the legal system to avoid taking a DNA test

Rymir alleges that Jay-Z, 53, had a romantic fling with his late mother Wanda in the early 1990s. The rapper has never denied the romance, but has refused to take a paternity test

'This is not going to be over until justice is served,' Rymir says. 'I just want to live my life and, when it is all said and done, I hope that Jay-Z would want to be a part of my life, if that is God's will.'

'I won't stop fighting for this until I win. And I will win because the law is on our side.'

To that end, Rymir filed a new motion with the New Jersey Supreme Court in February of this year, which has been obtained by DailyMail.com, requesting that the court unseal years worth of documents dating back to 2012 - arguing that keeping the case under wraps has prevented him from getting his due process.

The motion - which details every facet of the years-long case in a 29-page document  was rejected by the Supreme Court because, according to the Court, it did not have jurisdiction to re-open matters in the appeals court or to unseal records in the trial court.

It was then re-filed by Rymir in the Appellate Division of the New Jersey Superior Court, which is considering the matter.

It marks the latest turn in a very twisted and lengthy case - which began, Rymir says, in the fall of 1992, when his late mother Wanda alleged she had sex with Jay-Z while she was in an on-again-off-again romance with her high school sweetheart.

At the time, Wanda was 16 and Jay-Z was 22 - and far from the global rap sensation that he has since become, following the release of his debut studio album, Reasonable Doubt, in 1996.

The fling, Rymir says, was short-lived, and by the time he was born in July 1993, the alleged romance between his mother and Jay-Z had already come to an end.

Which is partly why, he claims, his mother chose to put the name of her high school sweetheart Robert Graves - who by this time had reignited his romance with Wanda was by her side in the hospital when she gave birth - on her son's birth certificate as his biological father.

However, according to a family insider, Wanda always knew that Robert was not Rymir's father - something that became all the more evident as her son grew and bore no resemblance to her high school sweetheart.

The 30-year-old (pictured with his late mother Wanda) says she told him that Jay-Z was his father when he was just eight years old and he has been fighting to prove that since he was 21

DailyMail.com has reached out to all parties involved, including Jay-Z and Jay-Z's attorney, Lise Fisher.

When Rymir was eight years old, he says his mother told him that Jay-Z - who by this stage had made a name for himself as a global music icon - was his real father.

However, the question of Rymir's paternity did not turn into a legal tussle until 2010 - two years after Jay-Z married his wife Beyonce - when Wanda's health began to decline.

At the time, she insisted that she'd had sex with only two men at the time of Rymir's conception, her high school sweetheart Michael and Jay-Z, and requested that a Pennsylvania court make both men take a paternity test in order to determine who was her son's real father.

When the court issued an order, Robert agreed to undergo genetic testing - proving once without any shadow of a doubt that he and Rymir had no biological relation.

Robert's name was removed from Rymir's birth certificate by the court and has remained blank ever since.

In 2011, Wanda handed over custody of her son to her godmother, Lillie Coley, who vowed to carry on the fight to prove the identity of Rymir's father once and for all, telling DailyMail.com: 'I was just trying to help my goddaughter's child have a relationship with his father.

'It was so hard on him because he was ripped away from his mom and had no one to call dad.'

That same year, Lillie contacted Jay-Z's attorney, Lise Fisher, and asked that he undergo DNA testing in New Jersey, where he and Rymir were based.

Rymir (photographed heading to court with his mom in 2014) alleges that Jay-Z has avoided taking a paternity test

Blind eye: Jay-Z and Beyonce (at the Grammy Awards in 2015) have never spoken publicly about the case, despite the multiple lawsuits filed against him

Rymir and Lillie say they complied with the request - but never received a response from Jay-Z's legal team about the results of any genetic testing.

That same year, multiple reports surfaced alleging that Jay-Z had fathered another son with a Trinidadian model, Shennelle Scott - claims that the rapper's team were quick to dismiss as 'ridiculous rumors.'

Lillie and Rymir began to pursue legal action against Jay-Z in 2012, a battle that has since spanned more than ten years and seen the pair embroiled in endless legal tussles with the rapper.

During that time, Rymir insists that Jay-Z's legal team has made endless attempts to subvert the legal system in order to avoid taking a paternity test, which the 30-year-old claims would put an end to the case once and for all.

Documentation about every legal proceeding is enclosed in Rymir's new Supreme Court motion - which has been seen by DailyMail.com and which outlines how the case began with a pre-trial in Camden County, New Jersey on August 13, 2012.

During the pre-trial, Jay-Z's attorney argued that Lillie - who was acting as Rymir's legal guardian - had 'no jurisdiction' over his case because it was first filed by his mother Wanda in Pennsylvania, and therefore should be heard in the same state.

The rapper's attorneys also insisted that the case should therefore be dismissed outright because Rymir was over 18 years old at the time of the pre-trial and, according to Pennsylvania state law, paternity must be established before a child reached the age of adulthood.

The court, however, disagreed, holding that the case should be tried under New Jersey law, which states that the age of 'parentage' is 23.

Jay-Z's legal team then argued that the rapper should be exempt from undergoing a DNA test in New Jersey because he did not live, or own any property in the state - despite several news articles linking him to homes in Alpine and Newport.

'My client does not have contacts in New Jersey. He doesn't own residences. He doesn't own anything in Alpine. He doesn't own anything in Newport. I don't know why that information is out there. It is on the internet,' his lawyer told the court.

As a result of this argument, the judge dismissed the case.

However, Rymir's attorneys immediately appealed the verdict - insisting that they had evidence in the form of three property deeds and tax records, proving that Jay-Z owned several properties in New Jersey and that his attorney therefore committed 'fraud' by stating otherwise in court.

For several of the properties, Jay-Z is still listed as the owner under his legal name, Shawn Corey Carter. In addition, several of his immediate family members are also listed.

Rymir and his legal team submitted the deeds as evidence for their appeal and the case resumed on December 12, 2012. During a hearing as part of that trial, Jay-Z's attorney noted that she had 'misspoken' about where he really lived - having told the court that the rapper lived at 411 Broadway in New York City, which is actually the office of his record label Roc Nation.

'I did misspeak at the last hearing because I really did think that Broadway was his home address,' Fisher stated.

However, the case was still dismissed, after the rapper's lawyer conended that Rumir had failed to prove that the 'Shawn Corey Carter' listed on the deeds was in fact her client and not another person of the same name.

DailyMail.com obtained the court transcript from August 13, 2012, where Jay-Z's attorney Lise Fisher told the court that he 'doesn't own residences' in New Jersey, thus giving the state no jurisdiction to require him to take the paternity test

DailyMail.com has also obtained property deeds and tax records for several properties allegedly owned by Jay-Z in 2012

Lillie submitted these documents to the court to show that Jay-Z owned properties in New Jersey, which would give the court jurisdiction to require DNA testing. The court, however, ruled in favor of Jay-Z

Civil rights groups NAACP and ACLU are fighting for Rymir and have sent multiple letters to New Jersey state legislatures demanding that Rymir get due process

'Plaintiff's request for genetic testing and for support is dismissed for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, and for lack of personal jurisdiction, over defendant Shawn Corey Carter, without prejudice,' the court ruled.

The decision came as a heavy blow to Rymir and Lillie - who insists to DailyMail.com that Jay-Z's legal team made 'false statements' in order to sway the court in its decision.

In December 2014, Rymir filed a civil lawsuit against Jay-Z and his attorney, during which the rapper's legal team made the same argument that they had done during the 2012/2013 hearing - that he did not own any property in New Jersey and could therefore not be subject to a paternity ruling in the state.

Again, the court ruled in Jay-Z's favor and dismissed the case.

'At the time, I had spent well over $20,000 on lawyers and other things that were related to this case,' Rymir told DailyMail.com. 'I didn't have that kind of money but knew it was the right thing to do.'

Up until now, the entire case has been sealed by the court - which means that the public cannot obtain files pertaining to the case, something that Rymir hopes to change with his new Supreme Court filing.

Despite the disappointing decision, Rymir has continued to fight to prove his paternity, something that his mother Wanda spoke out about from her deathbed before passing away in 2016.

'My name is Wanda Satterthwaite, and I am the mother of Rymir Satterthwaite,' she stated in a video shared with RadarOnline. 'Today is April 20, 2016, and I want the world to know that I support my son in his paternity suit with Shawn Corey Carter. I stand by my allegations regarding this man.'

Rymir has continued to fight his case, even after his mother's death, suing Jay-Z for civil damages in 2015, claiming that the rapper had obstructed his ability to obtain closure.

In 2017, Rymir and Lillie filed a civil rights complaint to Judge Glenn A. Grant for violations that included not following normal procedures for court services based on gender, class, and retaliation.

They also filed civil rights complaints to New Jersey's Attorney General, the Governor of New Jersey, various New Jersey senators and the Judicial Conduct Board in New Jersey.

They repeated the civil rights violations complaints to the same parties again in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Once again, all of the cases were dismissed.

In a 2022 YouTube video, Rymir made clear his feelings about the case, telling the world: 'I don't feel like our rights are appreciated. There is a lot of fraud and collusion that has been going on. I am not going to let that pass.

'We are going in there with our hard-earned money to fight fraud. The judges are allowing this to go on. Someone over them should be held responsible for this.

'I just want everyone to keep their eyes open. We should never go into a court room and feel like we are the victims. We got stepped on and tried to get dragged through the system.

'I will not let anyone put this on my name, my mother's name, or my godmother's name. We will fight for what is right like we have been doing all these years,' Rymir said in the video.'

Jay-Z has never publicly spoken about the case.

However, in his 2018 album with Beyonce called The Carters - You Heard About Us, he vaguely addressed the accusations.

The lyrics to the song state, 'Billie Jean in his prime. For the thousandth time, the kid ain't mine. Online they call me dad, kiddingly. You're not supposed to take this dad thing literally.'
Here is what the winner of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest will receive

The 2023 Eurovision Song Contest will be held in the UK for the first time in 25 years, with the city of Liverpool playing host to the event.

The contest begins on Tuesday, 9 May, 2023 and will last until Saturday, 13 May, 2023.

But what does the winner of Eurovision get? Do the winners of Eurovision receive any money? Are contestants paid to compete in the contest?

Here is everything you need to know about the prize that the Eurovision winner will receive.

Italian group Maneskin celebrate winning the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest by lifting the glass microphone trophy

What does the winner of Eurovision get?

Since 2008, the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest has received a prize trophy for their efforts.

The trophy comes in the shape of a 1950s-style microphone and is made from sandblasted glass.

The original version was crafted by Kjell Engman, who specialises in creating glass art.

Do the winners of Eurovision get any money?

Contestants do not receive any prize money for winning the event, but victory in such a prestigious and renowned competition can catapult winners to stardom.

This was certainly the case with ABBA, who, after performing 'Waterloo' at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, shot to stardom with major hits such as 'Mamma Mia', 'Dancing Queen' and 'Fernando'.

Celine Dion also went on to achieve enormous international success after winning Eurovision in 1988, finding international success with tracks including 'My Heart Will Go On' and 'The Power of Love'.

Whilst there was no financial gain for winning Eurovision, Dion's current net worth is an estimated 643million ($800 million), after a glittering career as a power-ballad vocalist.

Aside from being able to benefit from extra spotlight, competition winners also have opportunities to perform at Eurovision-related events and can become a jury member for the national song finals of the contest.

Do you get paid to be in Eurovision?

There are no specific rules which state that an artist must be paid by their country to perform. However, many countries do pay artists to appear given the prestige and history of Eurovision.

Each country pays a different amount each year, depending on factors like GDP.

ABBA - seen here performing 'Waterloo' at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest - were catapulted to stardom after their Eurovision win

The 2023 final will feature the 'Big Five' countries of Spain, Germany, Italy, France and the UK. They are automatically entered into the final as they are the biggest funders of the event.

The host city is also expected to help cover costs related to branding and security, as an acknowledgement of gratitude for being chosen as host.

As Liverpool is the designated host city for 2023, 2million in funding will be used from Liverpool City Council to cover costs, which will be matched by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, per the Liverpool Echo.

With host broadcasters also expected to contribute, further costs are expected to be covered by the BBC, the European Broadcasting Union and the UK government, in a total sum that could reach 10million.
Danniella's battle with drugs has been well-publicised, and she famously had her nose reconstructed after her septum collapsed

The EastEnders star, 49, previously said she needed five operations to correct her 'collapsing' face due to a previous cocaine addiction and osteoporosis

She had a string of procedures in Turkey last month in a desperate bid to save her collapsing face.

Actress Danniella Westbrook, 49, underwent a thread lift, liposuction in her cheeks and lips, fat grafting on her chin and had her jawline etched after her septum originally collapsed from excessive drug use in 2002.

The Former Celebrity Big Brother housemate has wanted to have the reconstruction done for the last seven years, but was unable to find a surgeon who would operate because her septum had completely collapsed.

She previously revealed she needed five operations to correct her 'collapsing' face due to a previous cocaine addiction and osteoporosis, and was planning to have it done on the NHS, however Danniella says she paid for the surgery all herself despite being offered freebies from clinics all over the world.

Danniella's battle with drugs has been well-publicised, and she famously had her nose reconstructed after her septum collapsed from excessive cocaine.

Facial reconstruction: Danniella Westbrook, 49, underwent a string of procedures in Turkey last month in a desperate bid to save her collapsing face (pictured in July last year)

Under the knife: Danniella underwent a thread lift, liposuction in her cheeks and lips, fat grafting on her chin and had her jawline etched

Soap star: Danniella first appeared in EastEnders in 1990 at the age of 16 and acted on the soap for three years (pictured in 1992)

At the height of her use it was reported she would take up to five grams of cocaine a day, blowing close to 250,000 on the drug.

The star has since embarked on multiple rehab stints in order to battle her demons - and revealed she was finally clean in June 2021, after attending a clinic in Mijas, Spain.

Danniella first appeared in EastEnders in 1990 at the age of 16 and acted on the soap for three years.

She returned in 1996 but her time was cut short when her off-screen behaviour got her sacked.

She returned again shortly after, but was axed again in 2000 after further disruptive behaviour, admitting she blew 100k on cocaine at the time.

The part was recast between 2002 and 2005, and played by Kim Medcalf, but Danniella returned to the role once more in 2009 until 2010.

She was back once more in 2016 for the storyline surrounding on-screen mother Peggy Mitchell's death, which is to date her final appearance.

Danniella previously underwent a rib insertion procedure in 2018, after osteoporosis rotted away her cheekbones and gums and, after spending the last year getting lip filler and Botox, in addition to surgery on her face, she is hoping to get back to her best.

Off air: She returned in 1996 but her time was cut short when her off-screen behaviour got her sacked (pictured in 1996)

Troubles: Danniella's battle with drugs has been well-publicised, and she famously had her nose reconstructed after her septum collapsed from excessive cocaine use (pictured in 2001)

Addiction battle: At the height of her use it was reported she would take up to five grams of cocaine a day, blowing close to 250,000 on the drug (pictured in 2001)

In the madness: She returned again shortly after, but was axed again in 2000 after further disruptive behaviour, admitting she blew 100k on cocaine at the time (pictured on ITV's I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in 2003)

After her recent surgery in Turkey, Danniella was seen wearing thick bandages around her head and nose as she recovered in Portugal.

The television personality had been shaken after a health scare saw her back in hospital, hours after landing in Portugal.

Taking to her Instagram Stories at the time, she wrote: 'Only I could land back in Portugal after surgery only to end up in hospital.

'The pain I've experienced is unreal, most frightening few days. Need it like a hole in the head, literally.'

On the mend: The star has since embarked on multiple rehab stints in order to battle her demons - and revealed she was finally clean in June 2021 (pictured in 2006)

Seeking surgical help: Danniella previously revealed she needed five operations to correct her 'collapsing' face due to a previous cocaine addiction and osteoporosis (pictured in 2009)

Unobtainable: Danniella previously said: 'Plastic surgeons wanted 500,000 to change my face, so I thought I was never going to get it done' (pictured in 2014)

Procedures: Danniella previously underwent a rib insertion procedure in 2018, after osteoporosis rotted away her cheekbones and gums (pictured in 2016)

When Danniella first woke up after the lengthy procedure, she said she looked 'like she had done 10 rounds with Tyson Fury'.

She previously said she'd wanted the reconstructive surgery for seven years, telling The Sun: 'I was very fearful. My mum and my son Kai were on the phone constantly - I wrote up a will before I left and my son is the executor of that.

'But luckily Im still here and Ive come through the other side. Someone is looking over me. I looked like Id gone 10 rounds with Tyson Fury.

'But the swelling has actually gone down really quickly. Im already happy with the results.'

Danniella previously revealed she needed five operations to correct her 'collapsing' face due to a previous cocaine addiction and osteoporosis.

Changing looks: She spent last year getting lip filler and Botox, in addition to surgery on her face (pictured last year)

She told The Sun: 'I've spent the last seven years trying to get somebody to do it, but they said no in case it failed and they got struck off.

'Plastic surgeons wanted 500,000 to change my face, so I thought I was never going to get it done. It was only because I went into intensive care before Christmas.

'I couldn't breathe because I had a cold. There was a build up of fluid and after I fell asleep I couldn't wake up properly and ended up in ICU.

'I was sent over to Aintree Hospital in Liverpool and it's only because I was put in front of the right doctors, or else I'd still be waiting now to find someone. 'They're doing it for me under the NHS now.'
Celebrities are often seen speeding around in flashy cars, including Ferraris.

But they haven't always opted to drive expensive vehicles, with stars such as Simon Cowell and Claudia Schiffer selecting much more modest options.

The television personalities and actors plumped for the less showy cars in the early 2000s in a bid to be more environmentally-friendly.

They retailed from 15,000 to 34,000 at the time they were bought, a far cry from the 241,000 Ferraris on the market in 2023.

Here, MailOnline takes a closer look at the reasonably-priced past cars of a selection of stars.

Modest: In 2011, Simon was spotted leaving the X Factor USA studios in a modest Smart Car, a stark difference from the $1m Bugatti Veyron he also owned at the time

SIMON COWELL (2011)

Car: Smart Car

Price: 15,000

In 2011, Simon was spotted leaving the X Factor USA studios in a modest Smart Car, a stark difference from the $1m Bugatti Veyron he also owned back then.

He smiled and made a peace sign as he left the studios in his new wheels, enjoying the smaller vehicle.

The X Factor supremo took to Twitter to defend his choice at the time, writing: 'Everyone is laughing at my new car. But I love it and it glows in the dark!'

The fuel-efficient motor retailed from about 9,200 - 15,000 at the time and was just one of the many cars in Simon's huge collection.

He splashed out on the Bugatti Veyron in 2008 and snapped up a 300,000 Rolls Royce and also owned a 2011 Bentley.

Out and about: Despite being worth an reported 68 billion, Facebook founder Mark has been spotted in a very modestly priced motor

Safety first: According to Cartoq he opted for the Honda due to it being 'safe, comfortable and not ostentatious'

Mark Zuckerberg (2012)

Car: Honda Fit

Price: 12,000

Despite being worth an reported 68 billion, Facebook founder Mark has been spotted in a very modestly priced motor.

In 2012 he was snapped running errands in the humble silver four-door vehicle.

According to Cartoq he opted for the Honda due to it being 'safe, comfortable and not ostentatious'.

However for swanky occasions he has also been spotted in a Pagani Huayra Italian supercar, which reportledy cost the CEO cost 1M when he bought it in 2019.

CAMERON DIAZ (2007)

Eco-conscious: Superstar Cameron stepped out in Beverly Hills in 2007 with a Toyota Prius T-Spirit which retailed for 20,000

Car: Toyota Prius T-Spirit

Price: 20,000

Superstar Cameron stepped out in Beverly Hills in 2007 with a Toyota Prius T-Spirit which retailed for 20,000.

As she headed for a trip to the beauty salon, she stood by the hybrid, clad in a long grey top and strappy sandals.

She was not the only star to opt for a T-Spirit in the early 2000s, with actor Leonardo Di Caprio buying one as well as politician Gordon Brown.

The actress was one of the very first people to get a Toyota Prius when it launched in America and lives a sustainable lifestyle.

It was reported by People in 2022 that Cameron has been pushing her pal Drew Barrymore to be more eco-conscious.

Drew said: 'I made a promise to my best friend, Cameron Diaz, that I would become someone who she had been pushing me to be my whole life, which was environmentally aware, conscientious and living a certain lifestyle that was sustainable.'

Practical: Using the street as her own personal catwalk, model Claudia Schiffer got into a Toyota Prius Hybrid in 2008

CLAUDIA SCHIFFER (2008)

Car: Toyota Prius Hybrid

Price: 25,000

Using the street as her own personal catwalk, model Claudia Schiffer got into a Toyota Prius Hybrid in 2008.

The beauty, who is a mother-of-three, had the motor to take her children to and from school in London.

Claudia is mother to Caspar, Clementine and Cosima with film director husband Matthew Vaughn.

She was photographed picking them up twice in one week in the practical car, which retailed at 25,000 at the time.

Claudia was one of many celebrities opting to buy into green motoring as the craze grew for more environmentally-friendly cars.

Nifty: Tom and his wife Rita Wilson pulled up to film producer Joel Silver's memorial day party in a hybrid Scion XB in 2010

TOM HANKS (2010)

Car: Hybrid Scion XB

Price: 34,000

Tom and his wife Rita Wilson pulled up to film producer Joel Silver's memorial day party in a hybrid Scion XB in 2010.

The film star has long been an advocate for electric cars and forked out 34,000 for the green energy-efficient ride at the time.

Its top speed was 95 mph, and charging the 355 volt pack took between 2 and 5 hours at the time.

He was one of the first celebrities to sing the praises of electric cars and has owned them since 2006.

The screen legend said in 2010: 'There are three electric cars sitting on the moon, and now another one in my garage.

'The eBox makes even more sense in Los Angeles. I can drive all weekend, hauling dogs and helping my friends move, and the only reason I'll need to stop at a gas station is for beef jerky and lottery tickets.'
Comedian Tommy Little spoke of the 'only regret' he has about his late friend Jock Zonfrillo during The Project's tribute to the late MasterChef judge on Sunday night.

Little, 38, said he felt guilty that his final encounter with Zonfrillo was when he interrupted the chef while he was on a dinner date with his wife Lauren Fried.

The Scottish-born restaurateur - who died of natural causes on April 30 - was too polite to tell Little to go away, so the trio ended up having a long conversation during what would have been one of Fried's last-ever dates with her husband.

'The only regret I have is the last time I saw him I interrupted his dinner with Lauren and he didn't tell me to go away,' said Little, who knew Zonfrillo well as they were both employees of Channel Ten.

'Had I known he would have so few dinners left with the love of his life, I never would have come over. I love you, mate. I miss you.'

Tommy Little (left) spoke of the 'only regret' he has about his late friend Jock Zonfrillo (right) during The Project's tribute to the late MasterChef judge on Sunday. (Centre: Carrie Bickmore)

Little said he would always remember Zonfrillo's immense kindness and hospitality when it came to helping him prepare a meal.

'He would humour me when I messaged him with questions about the cheese. He offered to have me round his house to show me how to cook things properly,' he said.

The Sunday Project paid special tribute to the late Zonfrillo ahead of the premiere of his final season of MasterChef Australia.

Gordon Ramsay, Nigella Lawson and Marco Pierre White were among those sharing their memories during the emotional episode.

Little, 38, said he felt guilty that his final encounter with Zonfrillo was when he interrupted the chef while he was on a dinner date with his wife Lauren Fried

Ramsay broke down in tears as he described how Zonfrillo 'lit up the kitchen' and the profound effect his death has had on the cooking world.

'The ripples have been devastating. No one's going to get over this quickly. If there's one thing that we've done as chefs is we've united and we're talking about the good times,' he said, as he chocked back tears.

'S**t. Sorry. It's just so painful. That's all,' he added, taking some time to compose himself.

Zonfrillo, who died on April 30, was too polite to tell Little to shoo, so the trio ended up having a long conversation during what would've been one of Fried's final dates with her husband

Pierre White said in his own tribute that Zonfrillo had qualities 'very few chefs possess' and will live on through MasterChef.

'Jock Zonfrillo will never die. He will live on through everyone he touched,' the British chef said.

Jamie Oliver, who is a guest judge on MasterChef Australia this season, added: 'Jock's superpower, I think, was his curiosity. He was super curious and fascinated in people, food, travel.'

Zonfrillo died on April 30 at the age of 46. He is survived by his third wife, Lauren Fried, and his four children: grown-up daughters Ava and Sophia, from his first two marriages, and six-year-old Alfie and two-year-old Isla, with Fried.
An OnlyFans star who spent thousands of dollars on cosmetic surgery in a bid to look like Kim Kardashian reportedly died of cardiac arrest after having silicone injected into her buttocks by an 'unlicensed' practitioner.

Christina Ashten Gourkani, a 34-year-old American model who went by Ashten G online, died in hospital last month after undergoing the risky procedure.

Ms Gourkani hired Vivian Gomez, a Florida woman who does not have a licence to practise medicine, to assist her with the enhancement, reports The Daily Post.

Ms Gomez travelled to a hotel in California where she is believed to have given Ms Gourkani 'several injections' of silicone on April 19, according to San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe.

Ms Gomez was arrested on April 20 at Florida's Fort Lauderdale Airport, and she will be extradited to Redwood City in San Francisco.

Christina Ashten Gourkani (pictured), an OnlyFans star who spent thousands of dollars on cosmetic surgery in a bid to look like Kim Kardashian, reportedly died of cardiac arrest after having silicone injected into her buttocks by an 'unlicensed' practitioner

She faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and practising medicine without a licence resulting in great bodily injury.

The coroner's office is still investigating Ms Gourkani's death.

Last month, Ms Gourkani's heartbroken family started a GoFundMe page to raise funds for her funeral.

The page included a lengthy statement expressing their shock and anguish, as well as a brief account of the moments leading up to the model's death.

'It is with deep sorrow and an immensely heavy, broken heart that we have to share the most shattering, unfortunate and unexpected passing of our beautiful, beloved daughter and sister Christina Ashten Gourkani,' her family wrote.

The statement went on to describe the harrowing moment someone called Christina's family at 4.30am screaming, 'Ashten is dying, Ashten is dying!'

The family spokesperson then described the 'living nightmare' of watching her health decline in hospital following her cardiac arrest.

The 34-year-old American model, who went by Ashten G online, died in hospital last month after undergoing the risky procedure

Ms Gourkani hired Vivian Gomez, a Florida woman who does not have a licence to practise medicine, to assist her with the enhancement. Ms Gomez travelled to a hotel in California where she is believed to have given Ms Gourkani 'several injections' of silicone on April 19

Fellow OnlyFans model Mary Magdalene paid tribute to Ms Gourkani on Instagram.

Ms Magdalene, a fellow plastic surgery addict who once almost died trying to get the 'world's fattest vagina', wrote: 'I don't know her, [but] I would always just randomly see her on Instagram and think she was really pretty but that is so sad she just died from plastic surgery.'

'It is so scary because you really just never know when you're going to die from [risky surgery],' she added, before expressing her own fears about 'sustaining brain damage' whenever she goes under the knife.
Bindi Irwin reunited with her long-time friend Beau Bridges at the star-studded Steve Irwin Gala Dinner in Los Angeles on Saturday.

The 24-year-old conservationist is known to have a close bond with the actor going back more than a decade, and Beau has even been described as her 'second dad'.

The Emmy winner, 81, posed for a photo with an excited-looking Bindi after surprising her on the red carpet.

Bindi looked glamorous for the occasion in a floral black dress and matching blazer, and completed her look with ballet flats.

Beau, who shares the Irwin family's passion for wildlife preservation, opted for a classic black suit which he paired with a cream bow tie.

Bindi Irwin reunited with her long-time friend Beau Bridges at the star-studded Steve Irwin Gala Dinner in Los Angeles on Saturday

The pair have a sweet friendship despite their 57-year age gap, which began when they both starred in the 2010 film Free Willy: Escape from Pirates Cove.

Beau later spoke of the Irwins in glowing terms, and was particularly effusive in his praise for Bindi's hard-working mother Terri.

'My first impression of Terri was as a mum - the mum of the leading actress of our movie. Bindi had a responsibility,' Beau told New Idea magazine in 2011.

'Terri was right there every step of the way making sure the workplace was a safe and happy one so Bindi could do the best job possible.'

The Emmy winner, 81, posed for a photo with an excited-looking Bindi after surprising her on the red carpet

The 24-year-old conservationist is known to have a close bond with the actor going back more than a decade, and Beau has even been described as her 'second dad'

Bindi, Terri and Robert Irwin hosted a gala dinner in honour of the late Steve Irwin at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills on Saturday.

The Irwins have proudly carried on the legacy of Steve - known around the world as the Crocodile Hunter - following his tragic death 17 years ago.

It follows reports Bindi's own child, two-year-old Grace Warrior, could soon front the cameras just like her famous mother and grandfather.

The pair have a sweet friendship despite their 57-year age gap, which began when they both starred in the 2010 film Free Willy: Escape from Pirates Cove (pictured in November 2010)

Beau was with the Irwin family when the late Steve Irwin gained a star on the Walk of Fame

'Grace is an absolute natural in front of the camera,' a source told New Idea in April.

'It's also believed she could be an even greater entertainer than her grandfather Steve Irwin. She's so bright and funny,' they added.

While some close to the Irwin family believe Grace is too young for a life in front of the cameras, her mother Bindi was already appearing on TV from the age of two.

'You have to remember that Bindi grew up in front of the cameras and was Grace's age when she first started appearing on television,' said a source.
Kaley Cuoco was radiant wearing a rainbow flannel as she posed for an adorable selfie with boyfriend, Tom Pelphrey, in a new Instagram post shared on Sunday from the Rock4EB! fundraiser.

The Big Bang Theory alum, 37, and the Ozark actor, 40, who welcomed their daughter Matilda in late March, joined other celebrities at the charity event earlier Saturday, such as Courtney Cox and Grammy winner Brandi Carlile.

The Emmy nominated actress flashed a big smile as she sat next to Pelphrey outdoors in Malibu where the fundraiser was held, which aimed to bring awareness to the rare skin disease, Epidermolysis Bullosa.

The new mother opted for a colorful, oversized button up with a hem that fell down past her waist.

She paired the flannel shirt with a black, maxi skirt and slipped into a pair of white sneakers to stay comfortable for the weekend outing.

Adorable: Kaley Cuoco, 37, was radiant wearing a rainbow flannel as she posed for an adorable selfie with boyfriend, Tom Pelphrey, 40, in a new Instagram post shared on Sunday from the Rock4EB! fundraiser

Kaley layered her ensemble with an olive green coat to help her stay warm in the cooler, evening temperatures.

Her long blonde locks were pulled up into a messy up do high on top of her head, allowing a few loose strands to fall down towards the base of her neck.

While sitting outside under the setting sun, The Flight Attendant actress added a pair of reflective sunglasses.

She accessorized her look for the event by wearing an assortment of necklaces, as well as a pair of mini, silver earrings.

Tom, who was confirmed to be dating Cuoco in May 2022, also kept his look stylishly casual for the fundraiser, and donned an off-black, hooded sweatshirt.

The Love & Death actor additionally slipped into a pair of black pants and added a pair of black-rimmed sunglasses while enjoying the fresh air.

The happy couple also paused for a quick photo inside the crowded venue, and Tom lovingly wrapped his warm around Kaley's shoulders to bring her closer to him as they flashed cheerful smiles towards the camera.

Cuoco crossed paths with other celebrity guests, such as Friends alum, Courtney Cox, who was effortlessly chic. The pair paused for a memorable picture together, which Kaley also uploaded to the Instagram post.

Stylish comfort: The new mother opted for a colorful, oversized button up which she paired with a black, maxi skirt and white sneakers

Cheerful: The happy couple also paused for a quick photo inside the crowded venue, and Tom lovingly wrapped his warm around Kaley's shoulders to bring her closer to him

Catching up: Cuoco crossed paths with other celebrity guests, such as Friends alum, Courtney Cox, who was effortlessly chic

Cox slipped into a pair of denim blue jeans which were secured with a thin, Celine black leather belt that contained a gold buckle.

She tucked in a white, lace-trimmed tank top along with a white cardigan into the waist of the pants, and rolled up the sleeves towards her elbows.

The Scream star added large, silver-hooped earrings as well as a few dainty necklaces to accessorize her look.

Both Courtney and Kaley are on the Honorary Board for the Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation, along with other stars, including Brad Pitt, Jennifer Aniston, Adam Sandler and his wife, Jackie.

According to the foundation's official website, EB is, 'is a group of genetic disorders characterized by blister formation after minor trauma to the skin,' and can, 'range in severity from mild to the severely disabling and life-threatening diseases of the skin.'

Brandi Carlile also made an appearance at the event on Saturday as a performer, which Kaley captured in a photo.

The Grammy winner dressed to impress wearing cream-colored slacks and a matching blazer, along with a tan-colored blouse underneath. As she sang a few tracks for the guests on a stage, the scenic Pacific Ocean could be seen directly in the background.

Cuoco took time for a photo session with an individual suffering from the rare disease, and the two sent smiles for the camera while posing outside once the sun set.

Special guest: Brandi Carlile also made an appearance at the event on Saturday as a performer, which Kaley captured in a photo

Raising awareness: Cuoco took time for a photo session with an individual suffering from the rare disease, and the two sent smiles for the camera while posing outside once the sun set

In the caption of the star's latest post, she penned to her 7.8 million fans and followers, 'After a 3 year absence, we were finally able to put on another amazing @ebmrf fundraiser this weekend, and what a turn out!'

Other attendees at the fundraiser included celebrities such as Tiffany Haddish, Billie Lourd, Cindy Crawford and her husband, Rande Gerber.

She also encouraged her followers to take a look at the nonprofit organization, stating that it is, 'time to raise awareness to keep our research afloat so we can overcome EB.'

The beauty concluded her message by giving a shout out to Brandi, adding, 'thank you @brandicarlile for lending your incredible voice and heart to our event.'

Both Kaley and her boyfriend, Tom, appeared to have enjoyed their date night while simultaneously giving their support to the EB Medical Research Foundation to help find a cure for the disease.

While at the event, the Meet Cute actress gushed about parenthood and raising her one-month-old daughter, Matilda, with Pelphrey. Their little bundle of joy was welcomed to the world on March 30.

When talking about the actor as a father, Kaley, who recently returned to the gym during her post-partum journey, revealed to People, 'I cannot believe how natural he is, how much he loves it.'

Parenthood: While at the Rock4EB! fundraiser, Kaley gushed to People about Tom being a father and stated, 'I cannot believe how natural he is, how much he loves it'

Back to the gym: Kaley recently revealed on Instagram that she had recently started going back to the gym amid her post-partum journey

'I mean, when we were in the hospital, he did everything,' she explained to the outlet, adding, 'every diaper, he's the swaddle king. All the nurses said, "Oh my God, you're the best guy swaddler we've ever seen."'

Kaley also stated that their baby girl 'looks exactly like' Tom. 'And he has a very distinct voice, so when he talks to her, she's like 360. Her head turns around, and she's like, "I know that voice." It's very sweet.'

The actor has also previously discussed watching the actress become a mother and told Access Hollywood last month in April, 'Oh God, it's so cool. She is so good at it.'

'It's like all the qualities that I love Kaley about times 100. She's so funny and she's so nurturing and easy and playful and loving. I mean, so loving. You know, it's beautiful.'
Actor Shermar Moore is calling out CBS for canceling its procedural action drama series SWAT after a six season run on the network.

The show's lead actor, whose been on the series since its premiere in November 2017, took to his Instagram page over the weekend to share his thoughts on why he doesn't agree with the move.

First up in the clip, Moore revealed that he was wearing sunglasses at night because he's feeling sad over the decision to cancel the show.

'I'm a lot a bit sad. We got canceled, SWAT. SWAT got canceled. It makes no sense.,' he said in almost disbelief, while leaning back on his couch seeming inside his home.

'Look up the articles, read the articles. We're the best show on Friday night at 8 o'clock for CBS. The last two years we've been killing it. Us and the fire show.. The fire show that comes on right after us,' he explained.

CBS called out: Shemar Moore, 53, took to social media to make his case as to why he thinks canceling SWAT is 'a f***ing mistake'

Moore, 53, continued to make his case by brining race into the equation.

'We've done nothing wrong. We did everything that was asked for. Let me tell a truth: did you know that I am the only African American male lead on network television? Not streaming, not cable  network television.'

He then reiterated it again: 'I am the only African American male lead on network television. Now let's get beyond me. SWAT is the most diverse show on CBS,' Moore continued.

'CBS, when I got hired to be Hondo on SWAT, was getting a lot of flack for lack of diversity. If I post this, and I think I might, I will get in a lot of trouble with CBS because I'm calling them out. Because they've been wonderful to me for 26 out of my 29-year career.'

It's at this point that the Oakland, California native revealed that he and others on the show 'were led to believe last week  and the week before, and the week before that  that we would have some semblance of a season seven to at least say goodbye, if not continue. And to abruptly be told, You're done."'

Moore went on to explain that the cancelation of SWAT is matter of politics, saying, 'It's all about money.'

'They said we're cancelled, but guess what? I don't think we're done. CBS is either gonna wake up and realize they made a mistake. Sony is gonna do their math and realize that this is not the right move,' he added.

'I hope we can have a kumbaya and come back together and continue this show, because it's a good time for families across the world.'

Emotional: The actor, who has played Sergeant II Daniel 'Hondo' Harrelson Jr. for six seasons, first shared about his sadness and disbelief over the decision by CBS to cancel SWAT

Making his case: Moore proceeded to make his case by sharing how the ratings for SWAT have only 'gotten better' over the years, and that he's more worried for the team that he's worked with since 2017

Moore then directed his thoughts towards his fellow cast and crew on the series, which is based on the 1975 television show of the same name created by Robert Hamner.

'If it is the end, life will go on. I'm not worried about me. I care about my family, my crew, the writers, the producers, the caterers, the wardrobe, the sound mixers, the teamsters, the construction crew,' the actor explained., adding, 'That's a whole lot of people that are abruptly being told that you don't matter. "Sorry. Thanks for your services. Good luck in finding a new job." And to me, that's not OK.'

Moore, again, turned his thoughts to the team he has worked with since 2017.

'I will be fine, but I'm upset because I busted my whole entire a** to prove that I could do this, and I did prove that I could do this. But I am also humble enough to know that I did not do this alone,' he shared.

He proceeded to make his case by sharing how the show has only increased its viewership over the years.

'The world took us in and embraced us, and the ratings have only gotten better and better and better,' Moore explained, 'I'm not bitter. I'm a little bit sad. I understand it's not personal  it's business  but I still have faith that SWAT will live to see another day. I don't know where, I don't know how.'

Team player: 'I will be fine, but I'm upset because I busted my whole entire a** to prove that I could do this, and I did prove that I could do this. But I am also humble enough to know that I did not do this alone,' Moore shared in the Instagram post

Rallying the fans: Moore is urging fans to 'make some f***ing noice' in hopes that the show can get a season seven to either continue the show or give or a proper 'goodbye'

Moore urged people to get vocal and let CBS know that canceling SWAT is a bad decision.

'So I'm asking my homies, my fans and my baby girls; and the rest of the world who follow me or follow the show, follow the cast, my brothers and my sisters: Make some f***ing noise. And let them know that canceling SWAT is a f***ing mistake,' he said.

The leading man reiterated that by sharing his thoughts and feelings it could get him 'in a lot of trouble.'

'I'm making this video because a lot of lives are at stake, and I don't think this is OK, Moore said before concluding, 'Anybody who works with me, I've got nothing but love for, nothing but respect for you. Nah, this ain't the way to go out. If we're gonna go out, cool, but let us go out right.'

Along with Moore, who played Sergeant II Daniel 'Hondo' Harrelson Jr., the cast of SWAT also includes Stephanie Sigman, Alex Russell, Lina Esco, Kenny Johnson, Peter Onorati, Jay Harrington, David Lim, Patrick St. Esprit, Amy Farrington and Rochelle Aytes.
Four-time Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara and her second husband Joe Manganiello enjoyed a romantic evening together at The Hideaway in Beverly Hills on Saturday.

The Colombian 50-year-old - who boasts 52.8M social media followers - captioned a selfie with her 46-year-old Italian stallion: 'Date night!'

Sofia and Joe - who began dating in 2014 - never had children, but they've been happily married for over seven years.

Vergara and Manganiello indulged themselves by ordering the $16 churros plate featuring chocolate mousse, strawberry, and prickly pear dipping sauces.

The VIA Riyadh brand ambassador - who relies on stylist Rhonda Spies - flaunted her youthful, taut 5ft7in figure in a white-lace Dolce & Gabbana pencil dress, a beige clutch, and matching platform peep-toe heels.

'Date night!' Four-time Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara and her second husband Joe Manganiello enjoyed a romantic evening together at The Hideaway in Beverly Hills on Saturday

Sofia will next appear in this Thursday's episode of the Los Angeles-set 18th season of ProSieben competition Germany's Next Topmodel, which is hosted/judged by her fellow America's Got Talent judge Heidi Klum.

Vergara and the German 49-year-old resume then their judging duties in the 18th season of the NBC talent competition, which premieres May 30.

In 2021, The Cinemaholic reported that the Modern Family alum earns $10M per season, Heidi earns $2.5M per season, judge Howie Mandel earns $1.75M per season, and creator-judge Simon Cowell earns $45M per season.

Sofia also has a mystery role in Josh Greenbaum's R-rated canine comedy Strays, which Universal Pictures will release in US/UK theaters on June 9.

And back on June 20, Vergara revealed she was shooting her 'last big week' on Netflix's six-episode series Griselda, which she's executive producing and starring as Colombian cartel leader Griselda Blanco.

The first-ever billionaire female criminal was known as the Cocaine Grandmother, the Black Widow, and the Queen of Narco-Trafficking before being gunned down, age 69, in 2012.

The four-time SAG Award winner will also executive produce Roku's upcoming six-episode competition Celebrity Family Cook-Off, which will be hosted by her son Manolo Gonzalez Vergara and judged by Kalen Allen and Fariyal Abdullahi.

'Party Saturday!' The Colombian 50-year-old and her 46-year-old Italian stallion - who began dating in 2014 - never had children, but they've been happily married for over seven years

Decadent! Sofia and Joe indulged themselves by ordering the $16 churros plate featuring chocolate mousse, strawberry, and prickly pear dipping sauces

'Night!' Vergara - who relies on stylist Rhonda Spies - flaunted her youthful, taut 5ft7in figure in a white-lace Dolce & Gabbana pencil dress, a beige clutch, and matching platform heels

'Honey, I'm home!' The VIA Riyadh brand ambassador will next appear in this Thursday's episode of the Los Angeles-set 18th season of ProSieben competition Germany's Next Topmodel, which is hosted/judged by her fellow America's Got Talent judge Heidi Klum (L)

Premieres May 30! Sofia and the German 49-year-old (2-L) resume then their judging duties in the 18th season of the NBC talent competition where they're said to earn $10M and $2.5M per season, respectively

Hitting US/UK theaters June 9! Vergara also has a mystery role in Josh Greenbaum's R-rated canine comedy Strays starring Jamie Foxx, Will Ferrell, and Isla Fisher

Sofia mothered the 31-year-old Emerson College grad during her two-year marriage to high school sweetheart Joe Gonzalez, which ended in 1993.

Meanwhile, Manganiello will next portray a hitman called Reggie in Nicol Paone's upcoming money-laundering thriller The Kill Room alongside Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Debi Mazar.

The Magic Mike's Last Dance actor is also producing and directing a Dungeons & Dragons documentary marking the 50th anniversary of the tabletop role-playing game.
Gordon Ramsay joined some of Australia's best-known celebrity chefs at a boozy lunch in Melbourne to celebrate the life of their late friend Jock Zonfrillo.

Zonfrillo, an award-winning restaurateur and judge on MasterChef Australia, died of natural causes on April 30 at the age of 46.

Ramsay reunited with his mates George Calombaris, Shannon Bennett and Matt Moran on Sunday for a bittersweet catch-up as they swapped stories about Zonfrillo over food and several rounds of drinks.

Bennett, 47, posted a photo on Instagram of the four chefs posing at the venue, and captioned it: 'That hangover was for you, Jock Zonfrillo mate. RIP brother.'

The four men were standing in front of a table with several empty wine glasses on it.

Gordon Ramsay joined some of Australia's best-known celebrity chefs at a boozy lunch in Melbourne on Sunday to celebrate the life of their late friend Jock Zonfrillo. (Pictured from left: Shannon Bennett, George Calombaris, Ramsay and Matt Moran)

Calombaris, 44, also posted a photo of the group, and wrote: 'A great dinner with a couple of beautiful humans. Love you boys.'

Their lunch took place hours before The Sunday Project aired a special tribute to the late Zonfrillo ahead of the premiere of his final season of MasterChef Australia.

Nigella Lawson and Marco Pierre White were among those who shared their memories during the emotional episode.

Ramsay reunited with George Calombaris, Shannon Bennett and Matt Moran for a bittersweet catch-up as they swapped stories about Zonfrillo over food and several rounds of drinks

Ramsay, 56, broke down in tears as he described how Zonfrillo 'lit up the kitchen'.

'The ripples have been devastating. No one's going to get over this quickly. If there's one thing we've done as chefs is we've united and we're talking about the good times,' he said, fighting back tears.

'S**t. Sorry. It's just so painful. That's all,' he added.

Bennett, 47, posted a photo on Instagram of the four chefs posing at the venue, and captioned it: 'That hangover was for you, Jock Zonfrillo mate. RIP brother.'

Australian chef Curtis Stone remembered Zonfrillo as a 'kind, fair, genuine and honest' man.

With a wry laugh, Stone called the plain-speaking Scotsman someone who 'treated everyone with respect - unless they didn't deserve it, then he wouldn't'.

Zonfrillo died on April 30 at the age of 46. He is survived by his third wife, Lauren Fried, and his four children: grown-up daughters Ava and Sophia, from his first two marriages, and six-year-old Alfie and two-year-old Isla, with Fried.
ZIMBABWE is edging closer to rejoining the Commonwealth as the bloc warms up to the Second Republics re-engagement and engagement drive with President Mnangagwa using his visit to the United Kingdom to attend the coronation of King Charles III, to engage the Commonwealth along with the British Government, businesspeople and others.

The President returned home yesterday and was received at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Zanu-PF Vice-President and Second Secretary Cde Kembo Mohadi, Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, service chiefs and other senior Government officials.

In an interview, President Mnangagwa said during his engagements with both the Commonwealth and the British government, he saw positive signals.

We were able to meet the British Minister of African Affairs and Development (Andrew Mitchell). We had a very long chat and the indications are that there is a spirit of co-operation developing between Harare and London, which we will continue to pursue, the President.

In London, the President also took time to engage with the Commonwealth and from the meetings he had with the blocs Secretary General Baroness Patricia Scotland and Commonwealth chairperson Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Zimbabwe is on the cusp of re-joining the group as part of its pillar foreign policy of engagement and re-engagement.

Last night (Saturday) I had a meeting with the Secretary General of the Commonwealth (Lady Scotland). There was a Commonwealth meeting, which was held because most of the members of the Commonwealth had come for the coronation, so they met as Commonwealth.

Thereafter I met with the Secretary-General to discuss issues about our application. I also met the Chairman of the Commonwealth President Paul Kagame; the indications are that so far, the signals are positive, he said.

Last year, a Commonwealth delegation led by the organisations Assistant Secretary-General, Professor Luis Franceschi, visited Zimbabwe and acknowledged that Harare had made progress in laying the desired foundation for re-admittance into the association mainly made up of former British colonies.

Under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe is vigorously engaging and re-engaging all nations, and tremendous progress has been made on that, as shown by the warm welcome the President got from British royalty between Friday and Saturday.

We were invited as a country to attend the coronation of King Charles III and we accepted. We were over 100 Heads of State from Africa, some monarchies from European countries and of course Latin America.

On the first day, they gave a reception with Heads of State; it was an opportunity to interact with the British monarchy. On the second day it was actually the coronation at the Westminster Abbey, it went very smoothly, said the President.

Thus, Zimbabwes engagement and re-engagement efforts continue to bear fruit as evidenced by among other things, the invitation to the United Kingdom for the first time in over two decades, the partial removal of illegal sanctions by the European Union, development assistance by the European Development Fund, and the invitation of Harare for the first time to the US-Africa summit last year, among others.

In London, the President also took time to market Zimbabwe to businesspeople who expressed interest to invest in Zimbabwe.

At a meeting with investors, the President outlined the vast opportunities in sectors of the economy such as mining, infrastructure development, agriculture and ICT.

In an interview after meeting with the business community, Minister of Finance and Economic Development Professor Mthuli Ncube, who was accompanying the President, said there is huge appetite to invest in Zimbabwe by both British investors and Zimbabweans living in the diaspora.

His Excellency was able to lead us into a discussion with investors here in the UK. The investors come from a variety of sectors; mining, agro-processing technology sector, financial services and infrastructure, right across the board, it was really pleasing to see this spread of investors.

His Excellency, with his team, which included myself, were able to explain to investors the various opportunities that Zimbabwe offers across the sectors and also the incentives that are available to investors. His Excellency was able to make it known that indeed Zimbabwe is open for business, from wherever they come and that investors from the UK are indeed welcome to Zimbabwe and we notice that they are keen to invest in Zimbabwe and this is really pleasing, said Prof Ncube.

President Mnangagwa was also accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ambassador Frederick Shava, Deputy Chief Secretary Mr George Charamba, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Mr Nick Mangwana. Herald
Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew has purchased a 177-year-old country hotel in rural NSW after selling her inner-west Sydney home in March for $2.1million.

The newsreader-turned-property flipper, 39, shared a video to Instagram on Sunday showcasing her new property in Carcoar, 260ks west of Sydney.

Bartholomew's property, known as 'The Victoria Hotel', was built in 1846 and she has plans to renovate it so it could one day reopen for business.

The video captured inside the two-storey historical property and its stunning architectural design, including a beautiful balcony and French windows.

She captioned the footage with some exciting words.

Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew has purchased a 177-year-old country hotel in rural NSW after selling her inner-west Sydney home in March for $2.1million

'In 1846, it was built on the banks of the Belubula River in Carcoar. 177 years later, on the same land, The Victoria returns to welcome a new generation of guests,' she wrote.

'A new chapter for the town time forgot. A new full-time project for us. A new side hustle for me in addition to waking up with you every morning on @sunriseon7.

'Reopening 2025 (with a lot of Fawlty Towers updates to come between now and then),' she added.

The newsreader-turned-property flipper, 39, shared a video to Instagram on Sunday showcasing her new property in Carcoar, 260ks west of Sydney

Back in March, Bartholomew announced she and her husband Neil Varcoe had secured a buyer for their renovated three-bedroom, two-bathroom property in inner-Sydney.

She posted a photo on Instagram of the 'for sale' sign outside the home with a huge 'sold' sticker plastered on the front of it.

'Our lovely little house is now another couple's home. Let the next renovation adventure begin (again),' she wrote.

Bartholomew's property, known as 'The Victoria Hotel', was built in 1846 and she has plans to renovate it so it could one day reopen for business

The video captured inside the two-storey historical property and its stunning architectural design, including a beautiful balcony and French windows

She previously said she did not originally plan to sell the stone brick 1880s-era house, but the couple decided to let it go after finding another renovation project.

'We've found this other project that we want to take on and it feels right,' she told Realestate.com.au.

Bartholomew, who shares daughter Molly, two, and, one-year-old son Tom, with husband Neil, a former executive at Twitter Australia, said moving out had been hard for her.

'I get emotional when I think about everything that's happened in this house. It's where we started our family. It's such a special place that we love so much,' she said.

'Reopening 2025 (with a lot of Fawlty Towers updates to come between now and then),' she told her fans
Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan beamed as they attended the American Born Chinese series premiere in New York City on Sunday.

The 60-year-old actress and 51-year-old actor, who starred in Everything Everywhere All At Once together, reunited on the red carpet.

Michelle looked stunning in a structured, satin, ivory mini dress with a black fine line graphic throughout.

For his part, the Indiana Jones star looked handsome in a simple black suit with a dark green shirt underneath.

Both stars wore fashionable black-rimmed eyeglasses to the event as they posed alongside each other.

Night out: Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan beamed as they attended the American Born Chinese series premiere in New York City on Sunday

Together again! The 60-year-old actress and 51-year-old actor, who starred in Everything Everywhere All At Once together, reunited on the red carpet

Yeoh's dress was designed to mimic a traditional button-down shirt and featured a coordinating skirt underneath.

The frock's slightly puffy sleeves cropped at her elbows and she teamed the look with shiny, black, thigh-high boots.

Her trim waistline was accentuated with a black belt that boasted a silver-toned, flower-shaped buckle.

Last month the promotional push got underway for the upcoming Disney+ series with the release of its first full trailer.

The adaption of Gene Luen Yangs award-winning 2006 graphic novel of the same name reunited Michelle, Ke, and Stephanie Hsu.

The story follows Jin Wang (Ben Wang), a child of Chinese immigrants who is seemingly a normal high schooler struggling with his school and home life.

But it comes to light that things are far from normal soon after he's introduced to a new Chinese exchange student and asked to play the role of chaperone to the newcomer.

Their meeting leads to a sequence of events that thrusts Jim into a battle between Gods of Chinese mythology.

His look: For his part, the Indiana Jones star looked handsome in a simple black suit with a dark green shirt underneath

Accessories: Both stars wore fashionable black-rimmed eyeglasses to the event as they posed alongside each other

Michelle pulled her lustrous, long, raven locks into a simple ponytail, keeping the attention on her fashion.

She skipped earrings and a necklace but donned a black watch and a single understated ring.

The Malaysia-born entertainer rocked a pearly, almond-shaped manicure for the star-studded affair.

And she looked radiant in a full face of soft, flattering makeup that brought out her beauty.

Her cheeks were dusted with a matte pink blush that matched her moisturizing lip stain.

Ke's dark hair was styled in a straight mushroom cut and he wore shiny black dress shoes with his suit.

This series is the story of a young mans battle for his own identity, told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu.

Along with Yeoh, Quan and Hsu, the cast also includes Yeo Yann Yann, Chin Han, Sydney Taylor, Hong Huifang, Poppy Liu, Ronny Chieng, Rosalie Chiang, James Hong, Lisa Lu, Jimmy O. Yang and Leonard Wu.

After making its world premiere at South By Southwest on March 15, all eight episodes of American Born Chinese are slated to debut on Disney+ May 24.

Her look: Michelle looked stunning in a structured, satin, ivory mini dress with a black fine line graphic throughout

Clever: Yeoh's dress was designed to mimic a traditional button-down shirt and featured a coordinating skirt underneath

Cute: Her trim waistline was accentuated with a black belt that boasted a silver-toned, flower-shaped buckle

Group shot: Melvin Mar posed with Ke and Michelle

Yeoh previously worked with the show's co-director Destin Daniel Cretton as part of the cast of Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings.

Lucy Liu also serves as director in the series, which is comprised of eight episodes.

Yeoh, Quan and Hsu were all nominated for Oscars for their roles in Everything Everywhere All At Once at the 95th Academy Awards, which was held March 12.

The absurdist comedy-drama film won 7 of 11 Oscar nominations, including Best Actress for Yeoh, Best Supporting Actor for Quan, Best Supporting Actress for Jamie Lee Curtis, along with Best Picture and Best Director for the team of Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert.

Quan started his career at just 12-years-old when he was cast as Short Round in 1984's Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, which he followed up with Data in the 1985 classic Goonies.

He worked sporadically throughout the rest of the 1980s and 1990s with roles in the short-lived TV series Head of the Class and the 1992 film Encino Man before stepping away from acting for decades.

The Vietnam native, who fled the country with his family when he was just four-years-old, returned in EEAAO, collecting a slew of awards before winning Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars.

The actor opened up to Variety just hours after his Oscar win, admitting that despite his recent success he's afraid it won't last.

Adorable: Michelle and Ke were joined on the red carpet by a stylish little girl who wore black

Hair factor: Michelle pulled her lustrous, long, raven locks into a simple ponytail, keeping the attention on her fashion

L-R: Chin Han, Yeo Yann Yann, Sydney Taylor, Ben Wang, Michelle, Jim Liu, Ke, Daniel Wu

'I had a conversation with my agent. Im so worried that this is only a one-time thing,' Quan revealed.

In addition to American Born Chinese, he has a role in season two of the Marvel series Loki, expected to debut in 2023.

He also has a role in the action-adventure The Electric State alongside Millie Bobby Brown, Chris Pratt and Anthony Mackie.

When asked if he was worried that he might not be cast again despite his Oscar win, Quan relayed some advice he was given by two-time Oscar winner Cate Blanchett.

'I attended an event recently and sat next to Cate Blanchett. I told her that I dont know what Im going to do next, but I feel I have a responsibility to do something good, and that I dont want to disappoint all the people that have supported me,' Quan said.
Lisa Wilkinson's notorious gaffe from her coverage of the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in April 2011 has resurfaced, after she was noticeably absent from Channel Ten's reporting of King Charles III's coronation on Saturday.

The veteran TV presenter, 63, who is on a career hiatus after quitting The Project last year, may not have been in London to cover Charles' ascension to the throne, but she was on hand to report on the Prince and Princess of Wales' nuptials 12 years ago.

Wilkinson, who was a co-host of Nine's Today show at the time, infamously said the late Dodi Fayed - the boyfriend of Princess Diana who died alongside her in a car crash in Paris in August 1997 - was in attendance at the Waleses' wedding.

'Is that Dodi al-Fayed?' Wilkinson was heard saying as a 'mystery man' - later identified as the King of Tonga - walked into Westminster Abbey for the ceremony.

'Yes, that's Dodi al-Fayed,' a supposed royal 'expert' replied during the live broadcast - despite Dodi having died years earlier.

Lisa Wilkinson's (pictured) notorious gaffe from her coverage of the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in April 2011 has resurfaced, after she was noticeably absent from Channel Ten's reporting of King Charles III's coronation on Saturday

The pair then incorrectly speculated it was Mohamed Al-Fayed - Dodi's father - entering the church, before they learned it was actually the King of Tonga, and not any member of the al-Fayed family, reports The Australian's Media Diary.

Wilkinson has a history of reporting on major events concerning the Royal Family.

She was flown to the UK last year to cover the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and also covered Prince Harry's wedding to Meghan Markle in 2018.

Wilkinson, who was a co-host of Nine's Today show at the time, infamously said the late Dodi Fayed - the boyfriend of Princess Diana who died alongside her in a car crash in Paris in August 1997 - was in attendance at the Waleses' wedding (pictured)

Wilkinson and a royal correspondent then incorrectly speculated it was Mohamed Al-Fayed (pictured) - Dodi's father - entering the church, before they learned it was actually the King of Tonga, and not any member of the al-Fayed family, reports The Australian's Media Diary

Dodi Fayed is pictured here in an undated photo. He died with Princess Diana in Paris in 1997

This year on Channel Ten, national affairs editor Hugh Riminton landed the coveted gig to cover King Charles' coronation.

Wilkinson is also, of course, the wife of journalist and commentator Peter FitzSimons, Australia's most vocal republican and the chair of the Australian Republic Movement.

Despite no longer working, Wilkinson is still riding the Ten gravy train.

Lisa Wilkinson missed covering King Charles III's coronation for Channel Ten following her exit from The Project. (She is pictured last year in the UK where she covered Elizabeth II's death)

Wilkinson, who hasn't appeared on screens since her departure from The Project in November, is still collecting a 'seven-figure salary' from Ten thanks to the 'watertight' deal she signed in 2021.

The question now remains as to how she will spend the remainder of her lucrative contract, which is said to extend beyond 2023.

It's unclear where such a highly paid journalist would fit in Ten's schedule, however, as the station is mostly known for its reality TV content, not news and current affairs.

This year on Channel Ten, national affairs editor Hugh Riminton (pictured) landed the coveted gig to cover King Charles' coronation

'With Wilkinson unlikely to put her hand up for 10's reality tentpoles like The Bachelor or jungle duty on I'm a Celebrity, her most likely next move is said to involve some form of interview special for 10,' reports Media Diary.

Wilkinson signed a reported $1.7million-a-year deal with Ten in 2018, before inking another multi-year contract with the network in 2021.

The generous salary helped Wilkinson fund a dream lifestyle of high-end properties, fancy cars, luxury fashion and first-class trips overseas.

Wilkinson abruptly quit The Project in November after four years on the panel, citing 'targeted toxicity' from sections of the media as the reason for her exit.
Roxy Jacenko has shared the vile death threat she received from a troll after posting photos from her son Hunter's extravagant ninth birthday party.

The PR queen, 43, posted the cruel message she received from a sadistic troll to her Instagram page.

'You're a disgusting piece of trash Roxy Jacenko. With your vulgar displays of wealth on your young children while many are struggling highlights your total self centred narcissistic behaviour,' the nasty note read.

'I pray your cancer comes back with a vengeance and your children get it as well or perhaps the boat can blow up next time and take your whole vapid and vile family with you.'

'Disgusting excuse for a human being please f**k off and die a horrible death,' the cruel message read.

Roxy Jacenko has revealed the vile death threat she received after sharing photos from her son Hunter's extravagant $50,000 birthday party

Roxy reposted the message and wrote: 'Another day, another freak slides into my emails.'

Roxy received the nasty email after sharing photos from her son Hunter's rumoured $50,000 birthday party on a superyacht.

The PR Queen threw a no-expense-spared Hawaiian-themed party aboard the 122ft charter yacht, Ghost II, which is rented out at $2800 per hour.

The youngsters were treated to custom-made slippers, and danced away to a DJ on the cruise around Sydney Harbour.

The three-hour event took a month to plan with Hunter even getting a personalised cake with a topper of himself on a surfboard and wearing Hawaiian shorts.

The PR Queen, 43, posted the cruel message she received from a sadistic troll to her Instagram page

Roxy received the nasty email after sharing photos from her son Hunter's rumoured $50,000 ninth birthday party on a superyacht

Guests were also treated to hula girl dancers and a poi-ball dancer.

Roxy told The Sunday Telegraph, her son chose the theme after looking at albums from a family trip.

'Hunter was looking through old photos from when he was little and came across some images of a trip we went on to Hawaii,' she said.

'It was then he decided he wanted a Hawaiian-themed ninth birthday as he has missed out on celebrating with his friends due to Covid for the past three birthdays.'
MasterChef Australia's season premiere on Sunday night was a ratings success after it returned to screens following the shock death of judge Jock Zonfrillo.

The show's debut in the prime-time 7:30pm slot came after a touching one-hour tribute to Zonfrillo on Channel Ten's The Sunday Project.

MasterChef attracted 761,000 viewers across the country and easily outrated its competition, Seven's Farmer Wants A Wife and Nine's Lego Masters.

It did particularly well in the coveted 25 - 54 year old demographic, with 345,000 viewers tuning in to see how the show addressed Jock's passing.

Farmer Wants A Wife trailed it with 609,000 viewers and Lego Masters came in third, with 567,000 people watching its penultimate episode.

MasterChef Australia 's season premiere on Sunday night was a ratings success after it returned to screens following the shock death of judge Jock Zonfrillo

Ten's heartwarming tribute to Zonfrillo on The Sunday Project was also a ratings success, with 610,000 people watching it - well up from the 246,000 viewers who tuned in the previous week.

It comes after MasterChef viewers were quick to express their heartache on social media, admitting the new season 'hits differently' in the wake of the tragic loss of Jock.

Tears flowed as viewers watched Jock grace their screens for the last time, with many sharing their emotional reactions on Twitter.

MasterChef attracted 761,000 viewers across the country and easily outrated its competition, Seven's Farmer Wants A Wife and Nine's Lego Masters

'Every time Jock speaks,' wrote one distraught fan, accompanied by a crying emoji.

'Jock said, "What a time to be alive". Life is so precious and nobody knows what's ahead. This comment from him is heartbreaking,' another person tweeted.

The pain was palpable, with many fans struggling to hold back their emotions.

Ten's heartwarming tribute to Zonfrillo on The Sunday Project was also a ratings success, with 610,000 people watching it - well up from the 246,000 viewers who tuned in the previous week

'I can't get past this. Nup. I think it's going to take me some time. My heart breaks,' wrote another viewer.

Others couldn't help but feel the weight of the loss, as they watched an emotional conversation between Jock and contestant Brent about overcoming personal struggles.

'That convo between Jock and Brent just hits hard now,' a fan remarked.

MasterChef Australia continues Monday at 7.30pm on Channel Ten
Ryan Gallagher announced he was joining OnlyFans on Thursday.

But in a crushing blow for the MAFS star, his paywalled content has been leaked online less than one week after launching his account.

Several of Ryan's explicit images and videos have been published on a notorious online porn forum, reports Yahoo Lifestyle.

An industry expert said this could result in the 34-year-old 'losing tens of thousands of dollars in revenue' from OnlyFans.

The leaked images show Ryan posing completely nude in the shower.

Ryan Gallagher's paywalled OnlyFans photos have been leaked online less than one week after the Married At First Sight star launched his account

Ryan declared last week he was joining OnlyFans after thinking about it for years.

'It's been four years of, "Nah, don't think I will." Well, I did,' he said on Wednesday.

For $15 per month, fans can now see a side of Ryan they haven't seen on TV.

The bio of Ryan's OnlyFans profile states: 'Just an Aussie bloke with a big willy.'

He extended a warm welcome to fans of all backgrounds, genders and body types, but warned against 'flogs' sharing his paid-for content without his permission.

Ryan's move into adult work comes after he proposed to Olympian Emily Seebohm.

Several of Ryan's explicit images and videos have been published on a notorious online porn forum, reports Yahoo Lifestyle. An industry expert said this could result in the 34-year-old 'losing tens of thousands of dollars in revenue' from OnlyFans

Ryan declared last week he was joining OnlyFans after thinking about it for years

The couple, who met on set of The Challenge Australia last August, announced their engagement in March.

But swimmer Emily, 30, later revealed Ryan had actually popped the question in December, just four months after they met.

She told The Daily Telegraph they managed to keep their relationship private for a long time and only went public a day before they got engaged on December 5, 2022.

'We just wanted to live in our own little bubble, we just wanted that for us and our families,' she said.
She made headlines after appearing on E!'s Botched following a $200k face and body transformation.

And plastic surgery queen Tara Jayne, 33, showed off her extreme new look while going shopping in Melbourne on Sunday, following another reported nose job.

Tara, who is globally known as Australia's 'human barbie', was hard to miss as she strutted around the chilly city in a colourful fur coat.

The nurse offered a glimpse of her surgically-enhanced cleavage in a low-cut top teamed with leather trousers.

Tara finished her look with a baker boy cap and and chain strap Yves Saint Laurent bag that she slung over her shoulder.

Australia's 'human Barbie' Tara Jayne showed off her extreme new look as she stepped out in Melbourne on Sunday after another round of reported surgery

Tara, who has had five breast augmentations, six nose jobs, and endless rounds of Botox and filler, accentuated her look with dramatic makeup.

She wore her raven tresses down past her shoulders.

In August 2021, Tara appeared on Todd Sampson's headline-making documentary series Mirror Mirror, which followed a group of Australians obsessed with going under the knife.

Tara, who is globally known as Australia's 'human barbie', was hard to miss as she strutted around the chilly city in a colourful fur coat

The nurse offered a glimpse of her surgically-enhanced cleavage in a low-cut top teamed with leather trousers

Tara, who has had five breast augmentations, six nose jobs, and endless rounds of Botox and filler, accentuated her look with dramatic makeup

In the show, Tara described herself as an 'upgraded limited-edition Barbie doll', while also bemoaning the inadequacy of her E-cup breasts.

'I think I want to get my boobs bigger,' she said.

She had previously featured on E! reality show Botched in the hope of convincing Drs Paul Nassif and Terry Dubrow to give her bigger implants.

Tara finished her look with a baker boy cap and and chain strap Yves Saint Laurent bag that she slung over her shoulder

Tara and her pal chatted away as they strolled around the streets of Melbourne's CBD

'Everything is tiny on me except for my tatas... I'm on a quest for a bigger chest!' she told producers.

'I currently have 540 CCs [of breast implant silicone], and I'm just not happy with them at all,' she said.

Tara said she'd noticed a 'rippling effect' on the skin on her breasts and hoped 'filling out the space more' would fix the issue.

But she was left disappointed when the doctors said her weight was 'dangerously low' at 45kg, making her far too slim to carry larger implants.

The nurse wore her raven tresses down past her shoulders

In August 2021, Tara appeared on Todd Sampson's headline-making documentary series Mirror Mirror, which followed a group of Australians obsessed with going under the knife

'I'm really concerned about Tara's overall wellbeing', Dr Nassif said.

'Not just as it relates to surgery, but she really needs to get both physically and mentally healthy.'

Tara said she'd stop at nothing to maintain and even enhance her 'knockout' 37-inch bust, 17-inch waist and 29-inch hips'.

'There is no limit for me when it comes to plastic surgery. It is incredibly addictive and I already want bigger breasts,' she added.

In the show, Tara described herself as an 'upgraded limited-edition Barbie doll', while also bemoaning the inadequacy of her E-cup breasts

'I think I want to get my boobs bigger,' she said

She had previously featured on E! reality show Botched in the hope of convincing Drs Paul Nassif and Terry Dubrow to give her bigger implants

'As soon as travel is permitted, I have plans to go back overseas to visit my surgeon and get my breast size increased to 1500cc [from their current 1050ccc].'

'I think in this day and age, it's very important for a woman to be able to express the way they feel and just express everything about beauty,' she told The Morning Show last year.

'Plastic surgery is how I do that and that's what makes me happy. It gives me the confidence to be the best version of myself.'

Tara recently joined adult subscription website OnlyFans to help fund her lifestyle and future cosmetic work during the Covid pandemic.

She charges $25 for a monthly subscription, and previously boasted of making $10,000 in her first three days on the platform.
Elyse Knowles is preparing to welcome her second child with her fiance Josh Barker.

And on Sunday, The Block star celebrated the upcoming arrival of her newborn with a lavish baby shower In Byron Bay.

The 30-year-old shared a series of photos to Instagram as her closest family and friends joined her for a fun afternoon of life drawing.

Elyse was simply glowing as she showed off her growing baby bump in a knit maxi dress by Australian designer Anna Quan.

After the drawing class, the mother-to-be and her guests enjoyed a delicious spread of cheeses, croissants and sushi.

Inside Elyse Knowles' lavish baby shower as she prepares to welcome her second child with her fiance Josh Barker

'A beautiful arvo with the girlies to celebrate Baby Barker 2.0! Very grateful for the endless support, love and happiness these people bring and to those that live afar,' she captioned the post.

Elyse and Josh announced they'd be welcoming their second child back in January.

'Very, very grateful for baby number 2. Half way until Sunny is a big brother,' she revealed at the time.

Elyse also went on a babymoon trip to Thailand after announcing her second pregnancy.

The former reality stars moved from Melbourne to Byron Bay in 2019 seeking a quieter life.

The 30-year-old shared a series of photos to Instagram as her closest family and friends joined her for a fun afternoon of life drawing

Elyse was simply glowing as she showed off her growing baby bump in a knit maxi dress by Australian designer Anna Quan

In February 2021, Elyse revealed to Stellar magazine that she was crippled by anxiety following the birth of her son Sunny.

'I got quite anxious leaving home for the first time. My heart was racing. I didn't know if I could do it,' she told the publication.

'Having [Sunny], having our dogs and getting out there... And Sunny was screaming in the car and it made me quite scared.

'I found it hard to breathe and I had to tell myself, "It's fine, what could go wrong?" Everyone has babies... you just have to go for it.'
Vanderpump Rules star Tom Schwartz is currently in Australia where he will be appearing as a contestant on an upcoming reality series, Stars on Mars.

And on Sunday, the handsome bar owner, 40, visited a popular bar in Sydney where he enjoyed some cocktails and a lively musical performance.

The Minnesota native shared a photo of The Baxter Inn's menu and a large drink he was having at the bar, and expressed his appreciation with a fire emoji.

The reality star later went back to his hotel room and posted a picture of some goodies he had purchased Down Under - Australian vodka, Tim Tams and green olives.

Schwartz is one of a dozen famous faces announced as contestants on the upcoming reality show Stars on Mars, which will see celebs compete in a simulation of the Red Planet.

Vanderpump Rules star Tom Schwartz is currently in Australia where he will be appearing as a contestant on an upcoming reality series, Stars on Mars

The series is hosted by Star Trek actor and real life intergalactic adventurer, William Shatner.

It will be filmed in Coober Pedy, South Australia, which is internationally renowned for its underground houses and jaw-dropping red desert landscapes.

His trip Down Under comes at the perfect time for Tom, who for the last few months has been embroiled in the drama resulting from friend and business partner Tom Sandoval's headline-making split from Ariana Madix amid his affair with Raquel Leviss.

On Sunday, the handsome bar owner, 40, visited a popular bar in Sydney where he enjoyed some cocktails and a lively musical performance

Schwartz has publicly supported Sandoval in the wake of the scandal.

He appeared on Watch What Happens Live last month to defend his friend and pledge to stand by his side amid his descent into reality TV villainy for his infidelity.

'Tom, I know the whole world hates you, but I'm not gonna abandon you, old buddy,' Schwartz said.

. The Minnesota native shared a photo of The Baxter Inn's menu and a large drink he was having at the bar, and expressed his appreciation with a fire emoji

Tom is enjoying the sights in Sydney before heading to Coober Pedy in South Australia later this month to begin filming his new reality show called Stars on Mars

Schwartz said of Sandoval: 'He knows he's a monster for what he did. If you see him, give him a hug. Maybe he doesn't deserve it, but give him a hug. He's down bad.'

He said in the appearance on the Bravo chat show, 'I'm not trying to evoke any sympathy for Tom, he knows what he did was disgusting. He knows he could not have handled that affair any worse.'

Schwartz said that while he understands the anger against Sandoval, 'The vigilantism is getting a little out of control.

'I want to remind people to take a breath. He knows what he did was terrible, so does Raquel. But the threats are getting out of control.'
Seth Rogen is mourning the death of his beloved dog Zelda.

The 41-year-old actor and comedian - who recently defended being childless - took to Instagram on Sunday to share the unfortunate news with his nearly 10 million followers.

The Canadian-born entertainer shared a slew of images with the pup and added a heartfelt caption.

In the message he wrote, 'We said goodbye to our perfect girl Zelda on Thursday, May 4th.'

Speaking on behalf of himself and wife Lauren Miller, he added, 'She was almost 14 years old. She was truly the most special, magical creature.'

Sad news: Seth Rogen took to Instagram on Sunday to share news that his dog Zelda passed away

Tribute: The Canadian-born entertainer shared a slew of images with the pup and added a heartfelt caption

The note went on, 'She taught us about love, resilience, strength and kindness.'

Included in the carousel was a photo of the Pineapple Express star playing fetch with the canine in a driveway.

He said in his social media caption, 'We loved her more than words can describe.

'Everyone who met her saw what a unique little puppy she was. Shed stare into your soul with her gigantic buggy eyes.'

The dog was small and adorable, with long, floppy ears and a white streak going down the center of its face.

'She was so judgmental, that when she loved you, you really knew you earned it, and it made you feel like you had won,' Seth described about his late pet.

The longtime entertainer said, 'She had an incredible life and was lucky to have so many friends and shared her special love with so many people.

She was a girl who was so shy no one adopted her as a baby who became a girl who travelled to multiple countries, appeared in three movies, on two magazine covers, and inspired countless works of Zelda-art including a lighter that is now in the homes of hundreds of people.'

Farewell: In the message he wrote, 'We said goodbye to our perfect girl Zelda on Thursday, May 4th'

Zelda, who he shared with his wife of 11.5 years, joined Rogen on GQ magazine in 2019, prompting the actor to tweet at the time, 'I've never been more proud.'

In Sunday's tribute he wrote, 'We have a (long) list of things that were special about her. Here are a few highlights:

'Her big eyeballs and her intense eye contact

How it feels when she stretches while Im holding her in my arms

How she comes inside before shes done pooing, takes a treat and then runs to the door when she realizes she has to poo more

The sound she made for Zankou chicken.

The way the fur on her legs looks like culottes from the back

Her leave me alone side eye

The way she would sit and wait to be called to walk through the metal detectors at the airport and then shed run through them and everyone would comment about what a good girl she was.'

Gushing: Speaking on behalf of himself and wife Lauren Miller, he added, 'She was almost 14 years old. She was truly the most special, magical creature'

The list went on, 'How she always wants to sleep in Seths spot

When she would go to the door pretending to have to go out, but just wanted to get us away from our food, although she would never actually go for it

Her big gigantic poops that always surprised people because of her small size

The way she loved sprinting up and down hotel hallways

How shed ask Seth to take her outside over and over again just for treats

The way she pounced on seaweed and her paws left tracks in the sand. And then shed kill it and ask to take it home.

How incredible it felt to wake up in the morning and see her [staring] back at me.'

Finally, Seth finished, 'We belonged to each other and we will miss her forever.'

The post has so far collected over 125,000 likes and supportive comments from friends and fans.

Zelda was the closest thing the actor and his wife had to children, which Seth has said they don't plan to have.

Life: Zelda, who he shared with his wife of 11.5 years, joined Rogen on GQ magazine in 2019, prompting the actor to tweet at the time, 'I've never been more proud'

Sad: Finally, Seth finished, 'We belonged to each other and we will miss her forever'

Last March, on Steven Bartlett's The Diary of a CEO podcast, Seth opened up about his choice not to become a father and his 'very happy' life with Lauren, who he wed in 2011 after seven years of dating.

When he was asked if he might be 'happier' if he had children, the Superbad actor said he didn't think so and credited the decision with helping him 'succeed' in Hollywood.

While speaking about discussions between him and his spouse as they get older, the comedian said: 'Now, more than anything, the conversation is honestly, thank God we don't have children.'

'We get to do whatever we want, we are in the prime of our lives, we are smarter than we've ever been, we understand ourselves more than we ever have, we have the capacity to achieve a level of work and a level of communication and care for one another, and a lifestyle we can live with one another that we've never been able to live before,' he explained.
GOVERNMENT has said it is no longer mandatory to wear face masks indoors but highly recommended, a pronouncement that has seen education authorities saying pupils must continue masking up.

Last Friday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared that Covid-19 was no longer a public health emergency of international concern.

However, WHO also urged nations to remain alert as the pandemic was not yet over.

In light of the development, Zimbabwe will maintain Covid-19 prevention measures that are under implementation.

National Covid-19 taskforce co-ordinator Dr Agnes Mahomva said to protect citizens from the pandemic it is still highly recommended for members of the public to mask up, especially in poorly ventilated areas.

Cabinet specifically dropped mandatory wearing of face masks but specifically recommended that we must still wear face masks if we are in a place that is at high risk of spreading Covid-19. That is what Zimbabwe is doing and in line with the recommendations of WHO and in line with what we have learnt in the country, said Dr Mahomva.

We must remain vigilant. Cabinet removed the mandatory aspect but strongly recommended that if you are at high risk, if you are in a crowded space, if you are in a poorly ventilated place, it recommends that you wear your masks in line with the new normal.

She said the country has institutionalised some of the best practices that protected people from the pandemic.

Dr Mahomva said these include washing of hands with running water and soap all the time, wearing face masks in crowded places, poorly ventilated places and also sticking to Cabinet resolutions.

WHO announced that Covid-19 is no longer a public emergency but if you go on the same statement, they go on to specifically urge countries to remain vigilant as Covid-19 is not yet over.

Based on that, nations should remain vigilant and being vigilant in line with what we have seen and based on our experiences is adopting a new normal. New normal means we are not going back where we were before Covid-19, said Dr Mahomva.

Some entities including Government offices, financial institutions, schools among other organisations still demand that people wear face masks.

Dr Mahomva said Government will also continue to support schools to ensure that they remain safe especially going into winter, a period when the incidence of respiratory diseases often increases.

A new normal means institutionalising those best practices that we have been doing and successes that we have recommended and making sure that we remain vigilant, she said.

Government continues to support schools to make sure that they have access to water, to make sure there is no crowding, they practice social distancing and those are the practices. And we know even before Covid-19 when you go into winter pay attention especially in places where someone has a common cold because youll never know what it is. That is the kind of thing that is the new normal. We are not going back where we were before Covid-19.

Primary and Secondary Education communications and advocacy director Mr Taungana Ndoro said the ministry will maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) introduced at the peak of Covid-19 including wearing of masks and social distancing.

Mr Ndoro said SOPs make schools safe.

They dont protect our pupils from Covid 19 only but many other communicable diseases such as cholera, typhoid, flues and any other diseases, said Mr Ndoro.

They also help us in terms of health and hygiene, washing of hands, cleanliness, social distancing, it has taught us a lot and there is no way we are going to discard that. It is to our advantage whether there is an outbreak we will able to contain it because we have the SOPs. If its flu, its a bug it wont spread because we have these standard operating procedures. So, this is why we will continue to maintain them.

The education sector was one of the worst affected by Covid-19 following the outbreak of the pandemic in 2020 which resulted in schools closing for prolonged periods.

Prominent Bulawayo medical doctor and lecturer Professor Solwayo Ngwenya said in view of the latest pronouncement, it is key that the public understand that WHO still regards Covid-19 as a public threat and the public should guard against complacency.

This statement from WHO must not distract us in Zimbabwe in general, and Africa in particular since the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic still remains as mentioned in that same statement. This is particularly important as pandemic history tells us that the severe danger lies in the end when there is widespread complacency, said Prof Ngwenya.

He said it is more critical to be vigilant as the country is entering the cold winter season.

Prof Ngwenya said it will be critical for schools to continue masking up.

It is particularly important in our setting during the cold season when viruses spread easily among close contact groups such as schoolchildren, that the wearing of face masks must be maintained to which failure could lead to widespread mass infections that may cause serious problems for us as a country, said Prof Ngwenya.

The message to the general public is that we have gotten this far by observing Covid 19 protocols, let us maintain the same so that together we can survive the pandemic. There may be very grave problems ahead during this winter.

Legal expert and former Zimbabwe Lawyers Association president Mr Wellington Magaya said Government should improve communication regarding wearing of masks in public buildings.

He said the public can take legal recourse if institutions continue to demand that they wear masks in public buildings, although it will be costly than just buying a mask.

The Government needs to communicate properly and effectively to everyone about the removal of mandatory wearing of face masks in public buildings. I dont think the revision of the regulations was adequately communicated to everyone. This is the reason why some institutions are still insisting on the wearing of mask, said Mr Magaya.

That having been said no one can force or compel anyone to mask in a public building and what anyone who is affected by that can do is refuse to comply with that instruction or order because it is unlawful. But if the person controlling access to building refuses, the only remedy is going to court but that may not be practical because you can approach the court on an urgent basis after three to four days. Practically it may not be the best way to do it, it costs money if it is just about accessing a building. It will be cost effective to just buy a mask and take it off as soon as you leave.

Regarding schools sticking to wearing of masks, the lawyer said it could be the best decision considering the countrys Covid-19 journey.

He however said parents and guardians who feel aggrieved over the issue can also approach the courts to seek recourse. Herald
Maisie Smith looked sensational while modelling a string of racy outfits to promote her collection with jewellery brand, Abbott Lyon.

The former EastEnders star, 21, wowed in a striped yellow minidress featuring sexy cutouts and an asymmetrical neckline as she posed for the camera.

She went on to flash her midriff in a cream crop top and coordinating trousers before changing into a tiny bandeau, layered beneath a swirly blue co-ord.

Maisie wrote in her caption: 'GUYS its now live!! Ive been counting down the days to share my Unique jewellery collection with you and you can shop it 2 for 1 now using code MAISIE2FOR1 Its personalised, its colourful, its unique to you!

'Choose from a rainbow of letters, icons and emojis to create jewellery to match your energy  Discover the collection at my link in bio!

Hot stuff: Maisie Smith looked sensational while modelling a string of racy outfits to promote her collection with jewellery brand, Abbott Lyon

Out of this world: The actress soon changed into a tiny bandeau, layered beneath a swirly blue co-ord

'Let me know what you create in the comments below AD.'

Last week, Maisie shared a BTS look at the glamorous photoshoot.

The actress flaunted her figure in a pink denim co-ord which boasted a cleavage enhancing bustier and high-waisted trousers.

Teasing a hint of her toned midriff she posed up a storm with a face full of make-up and her auburn tresses styled in loose waves.

Maisie oozed confidence on the set as she accessorised with gold bangles and rings for the commercial.

Adding a sparkly slide to her hair she teased a glimpse at her upcoming range with the swanky brand.

The video comes after Maisie and her boyfriend Max shared some romantic snaps from their vacation in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

The lovebirds couldn't take their eyes off each other as they enjoyed a romantic dance at the Louvre.

The couple, who competed against each other during the 2020 series of Strictly, decided to put some moves into practice as they twirled by the pool.

Sizzling: She went on to flash her midriff in a cream crop top and coordinating trousers

Wowzers! The former EastEnders star, 21, wowed in a striped yellow minidress featuring sexy cutouts and an asymmetrical neckline as she posed for the camera

Excited: Maisie wrote in her caption: 'GUYS its now live!!'

Maisie flashed a hint of her toned legs in a maxi dress with thigh-high split as The Wanted star spun her around.

Maisie captioned the shot: 'Twirls at the Louvre'.

Fans took to the comment section to gush over the romantic snaps. Great British Bake Off star John Whaite wrote: 'You guys'.

Another fan wrote: 'Max I admire what you had to do in the dark, you're a lovely guy, my advice is get a ring on her finger your obviously in love just go for it, life's too short.'

Despite being loved-up, the young actress has been forced to slam critics over their concerns about the age gap between herself and Max, who is 13 years her senior.

Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, Maisie said: 'People don't understand what goes on behind closed doors in a relationship, and I think they also forget that I'm a consenting 21-year-old woman who's actually been working longer than Max!

'I don't notice the age difference and neither do my friends or family. My mum Julia is the one who reads through all the comments. I got a message from her yesterday, saying: 'Just ignore them, you two were made for each other.'
Khloe Kardashian has shared a gorgeous new snap of her son, Tatum.

The reality star, 38, who shares the nine-month-old with her on-off boyfriend Tristan Thompson, 32, posted the rare photo to Instagram on Sunday.

She had been celebrating her nephew Psalm's fourth birthday with her daughter True, five, and her youngest child, who was wearing a red firefighter's hat.

Khloe - who looked chic in a white top in the pic - captioned her latest post with three bear emojis.

Kim Kardashian spared no expense as she threw the lavish firefighter-themed party for Psalm.

Gorgeous: Khloe Kardashian shared a rare snap of her son Tatum, 9 months, as she posed with her daughter True, 5, during her nephew Psalm's lavish birthday party on Sunday

Cute: Khloe captioned her Instagram post with three bear emojis

She shared several photos and videos from the event on her Instagram Story.

The entrepreneur, who recently reconnected with her ex Pete Davidson at the Met Gala, was also joined by her younger sister Khloe, who appeared in several photos and videos that had been taken during the event.

Kim began by sharing a video of several firefighters from Calabasas, who had been invited to the event, standing in front of a vintage fire engine.

The social media figure then entered 'Psalm's fire department' and showed off a sizable mural that showed her son responding to a fire alarm.

The influencer also showed off her son posing in front of a balloon sculpture that showed a firefighter hosing down a blaze.

Psalm was later seen as he took a look at the mural, of which he seemed particularly impressed.

Kim showcased a mocktail station that she had set up for the event in another one of her clips.

The reality television personality also had custom plate decals printed that featured text reading: 'Psalm is fired up to be 4!'

Peace out: Kim Kardashian spared no expense as she threw the lavish firefighter-themed party for Psalm

Sparing no expense: The entrepreneur then gave her fans a look into 'Psalm's firehouse,' where partygoers could get their hands on custom-printed 'Psalm merch'

Staying close: Kim later donned her own custom-made firefighter's jacket and held her son's hand as they walked through the party's grounds

Unforgettable! Several of the party's guests went for a ride in a vintage fire engine

Sweet treats: She went on to show off one of the event's dessert tables, which featured various Dalmatian-themed biscuits, cupcakes and marshmallow sticks, and she also had a churro stand installed at the event

The entrepreneur then gave her fans a look into 'Psalm's firehouse,' where partygoers could get their hands on custom-printed 'Psalm merch.'

Many of the guests were provided with firefighter's costumes featuring their first names printed on the back of their coats.

She went on to show off one of the event's dessert tables, which featured various Dalmatian-themed biscuits, cupcakes and marshmallow sticks, and she also had a churro stand installed at the event.

Kim later donned her own custom-made firefighter's jacket and held her son's hand as they walked through the party's grounds.

The reality television personality lovingly held her child as the partygoers all sang Happy Birthday.

The entrepreneur's youngest son subsequently attempted to break open a fire engine-shaped pinata, and he was later high-fived by one of Calabasas' firefighters.

She went on to show off a rolled ice cream stand that had been set up for the party.

Kim provided the party's guests with their own Dalmatian-esque stuffed animals, and each came with a 'certificate of adoption.'

Having fun: The entrepreneur's youngest son subsequently attempted to break open a fire engine-shaped pinata, and he was later high-fived by one of Calabasas' firefighters

Having fun: Kim and Khloe were later seen while riding in the vintage fire engine

Showing off: Khloe posted a photo of her daughter True, aged five, wearing a t-shirt bearing her aunt's image on her Instagram Story

Family affair: Psalm's older sister North shared a video to her TikTok account in which she went for a ride with her friends in the fire engine

Kim shares Psalm and North, aged nine, with her former husband Kanye West.

The social media mainstay went on to share videos of various dessert and candy tables that had been set up for the guests.

Kim and Khloe were later seen while riding in the vintage fire engine, and the latter posted a photo of her daughter True, aged five, wearing a t-shirt bearing her aunt's image on her Instagram Story.

Khloe's daughter was also provided with one of the custom-printed firefighter's jackets.

Psalm's older sister North shared a video to her TikTok account in which she went for a ride with her friends in the fire engine.

The influencer and the 45-year-old rapper previously tied the knot in 2014, and they also share son Saint and daughter Chicago, aged seven and five.

The former couple eventually split up and their drawn-out divorce was finalized last year.

The performer has since moved on with Bianca Censori, whom he married in a non-legally binding ceremony.
Michelle Keegan shared a series of behind-the-scenes shots from filming her new drama on Sunday ahead of its release next week.

The actress, 35, plays nurse Kate Thorne in the upcoming BBC show that dramatises the famous Assisted Passage Migration Scheme, which brought more than a million people to Australia after World War II.

Taking to Instagram to post the slideshow of images, Michelle looked stunning as she posed in a vintage purple tea dress in one shot.

Another photo showed the star and members of the cast grinning in 1950s finery as they relaxed on set.

Elsewhere in the gallery were snaps of the scenery for the BBC show, a pretty sunset and an image of Luna Park, a theme park in Melbourne.

New drama: Michelle Keegan shared behind-the-scenes shots of filming for new 1950s drama Ten Pound Poms on Sunday ahead of its release next week

Fun: Another photo showed the star and members of the cast grinning in 1950s finery as they relaxed on set

She captioned her post: '1 week to go before Ten Pound Poms takes you back to 1956.'

It comes after Michelle opened up about the daunting task of spending months away from home and husband Mark Wright, 36, as she filmed the new series.

The actress, who wed the reality star in 2015, described travelling alone as 'quite scary' as she left behind her life and loved ones in the UK, as filming took place throughout last summer.

Recalling the production process she said: 'I absolutely loved filming in Australia. I mean, when I first got there the weather wasn't great, I'm not going to lie, but as a country I really enjoyed it.

'In fact, in a way my journey to Australia has parallels with Kate's. It was my first time too and I didn't know what to expect, I came on my own which was quite scary, but it's been such an incredible experience.'

Mark did manage to make trips to visit his wife down under and the pair shared snaps of their romantic reunions on social media last year.

Back in July discussing their 'tough' long distance relationship, Mark told MailOnline: 'If you're in love and in a happy relationship you will be happy to see each other'.

'You have to learn that you've been together for a long time and not seen each other in three weeks so it's exciting at first but then it goes back to being a 10 year relationship.

Set: The actress also posted a photograph of the school set in the show as some of the actors played

Pretty: Michelle's slideshow also featured a pretty sunset on the film set after another day in Australia

'The longer you go, the more pressure there is because the longer it's been. But I was in LA and had a dinner with Piers Morgan and I told him it was hard. He said: 'I had this with my wife and we have a 3 weeks rule so don't let it go past 3 weeks.'

Before going on say: 'It's tough though with Australia, it's a lot of flying.'

Michelle also discussed what she loved about the country ahead of the show's upcoming premiere.

Gushing: 'The Australian actors are so brilliant and they bring a different energy to the set'.

'The thing I miss most about Australia is the people. I know it's such a cliched thing to say, but everyone out there is so lovely, friendly and welcoming. The crew really got on and it was such a nice working environment - and of course I miss the cast'.

Discussing the show's difficult subject matter she said: 'Ten Pound Poms will definitely take the audience on a journey'.

'I think for me and for the viewers, the script is like a history lesson. I didn't know a lot about the Ten Pound Poms before being part of this project but I did a lot of research into it'.

Before adding: Now I've talked to lots of people who say: 'Yeah, my grandmother was a Ten Pound Pom and I have family in Australia' and that all stemmed from what happened in the 1950s.

Couple: It comes after Michelle opened up about the daunting task of spending months away from home and husband Mark Wright as she filmed the new series (pictured in January)

Long distance: Michelle (pictured playing Kate) also discussed what she loved about the country ahead of the show's upcoming premiere

Earlier this week the show's trailer debuted, featuring actors Faye Marsay (Game of Thrones) and Warren Brown (Luther).

They play a married couple, The Roberts, who come to Australia in 1956 after paying just 10 for their passage out.

The Australian government promise them a better house, better job prospects and a better quality of life Down Under, far away from dreary post-war England.

But the family soon discover the grim reality of migrant life as they battle the poor living conditions in a hostel for 'New Australians', as well as prejudice.

The series will premiere Sunday May 14 at 9pm on BBC1
Mischa Barton is calling Australia home for the coming months as she gets to work on the revamped soap opera, Neighbours.

The 37-year-old shared an update with fans on Monday, appearing in a video on the show's official Instagram account.

The O.C. star promised that her character will liven up the series and bring 'drama' to the plotlines.

'Ive started filming on set and it's going so great,' the actress, who has dyed her hair blonde for the role, said in the video.

'I cant wait for you guys to see it, theres lots of drama to come. So see you all soon,' Mischa added.

Watch the iconic series, The O.C. available now only on Stan.

Mischa Barton (pictured) is calling Australia home for the coming months as she gets to work on the revamped soap opera, Neighbours. The O.C. star promised on Monday that her character will liven up the series and bring 'drama' to the plotlines

Mischa's role as Reece in the Amazon reboot will shake up Ramsay Street as her character's identity 'is not what it seems'.

The former Hollywood socialite's appearance is designed to appeal to American viewers, as Neighbours, which is set in the fictional Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough, will screen in the U.S. on Amazon Freevee.

'I'm excited to be part of this iconic show's next chapter, and I am really looking forward to being back in Australia  a place I know and love!' Barton said in a statement.

'I think the character of Reece is going to be a great role for me to explore and play with,' she added.

Neighbours' executive producer Jason Herbison said: 'With Neighbours launching on Amazon Freevee in North America, we are beyond excited to have an actor of Mischa's calibre join us for the beginning of this exciting new chapter.

'Ive started filming on set a and it's going so great,' the actress, who has dyed her hair blonde for the role, said in the video

Mischa's role as Reece in the Amazon reboot will shake up Ramsay Street as her character's identity 'is not what it seems'. Pictured before dyeing her locks platinum

'Mischa's 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 began her career as a child actress in Hollywood films like The Sixth Sense and Notting Hill, which were both released in 1999.

However, she became a bona fide superstar when she was cast as troubled teenager Marissa in the hit TV series The O.C., which ran from 2003 to 2007.

Her career floundered after she quit The O.C. at the end of the third season, and Barton publicly struggled with life in the spotlight.

Cameras began rolling for Amazon's revived Neighbours last month, and the series should be back on screens by the end of this year.

The continuation of the long-running soap series follows the finale in 2022, which was watched by millions of fans.
After performing at Sunday night's Coronation concert, Katy Perry shared some backstage details with her Instagram followers.

The Firework songstress, 38, joined stars including Lionel Richie and Take That in lighting up the stage at Windsor Castle in honour of King Charles III following his Coronation at Westminster Abbey the previous day.

In the early hours of Monday morning, she took to the photosharing site to show the inside of the Vivienne Westwood she wore on stage.

The lining of the vast gold lame ballgown featured delicate embroidery reading: 'Katy Perry [Crown symbol] Charles III 2023 VW'.

She also revealed her Pentecostal pastor mother Mary Perry was in tow, as she shared a snap of the duo hugging, while her British fiance Orlando Bloom gushed about being 'immensely proud' of the star.

Me and my mum: After performing at Sunday night's Coronation concert, Katy Perry shared some backstage details with her Instagram followers including a backstage cuddle with her mum

Queen KP: In the early hours of Monday morning, she took to the photosharing site to show the inside of the Vivienne Westwood she wore on stage

Superstar: The Firework songstress, 38, joined stars including Lionel Richie and Take That in lighting up the stage at Windsor Castle in honour of King Charles III following his Coronation at Westminster Abbey the previous day

His love: Her fiance Orlando Bloom gushed over his wife

Stunner: She also posed within Windsor castle in a stunning snap shared on Monday

Katy took to the stage at King Charles and Queen Camilla's Concert, where she looked sensational in a huge gold metallic gown as she entertained the 20,000 strong audience with a selection of her most famous hits.

Katy's impressive vocals were accompanied by an incredible light show and pyrotechnics as the audience cheered for more. One of the light up drones formed a tiger's head in a nod to her hit Roar

Beaming Katy thanked his majesty for the privilege and revealed her honour as she gushed: 'I got to bring my mum and stay in a castle!'.

Her show stopping frock featured a sculpted bodice with plunging neckline as well as an enormous princess skirt that made sure she could be seen from far and wide.

The gown also boasted quirky sleeves with puff detailing at the shoulders and she completed the look with large gold earrings, before later sharing her post which displayed the delicate embroidery on the inside.

Celebrate: The Royals enjoyed the show from the private box alongside politicians and dignitaries

Cheers! She shared a video of the King watching her performance

Incredible: The pop superstar looked sensational in a huge gold metallic gown as she entertained the 20,000 strong audience with a selection of her most famous hits

What an honour! Beaming Katy thanked his majesty for the privilege and revealed her honour as she gushed: 'I got to bring my mum and stay in a castle!'

Following her own Instagram post, Orlando posted a picture of the concert on his own Instagram page, writing: 'Immensely proud of you my my love. You always bring the light', under which she responded: 'Our light'.

Elsewhere during the show Tom Cruise made a surprise cameo in a surprise pre-recorded segment.

The A-list actor, 60, was flying his iconic Top Gun plane in the cameo during an interlude between performances as stars including Pierce Brosnan and Bear Grylls discussed the King's military service.

A clip of Tom then came up on the screen as he flew a plane and quipped: 'Pilot to pilot - your Majesty, you can be my wingman anytime!'

Sideboob: Katy sported a glamorous palette of make-up with metallic accents and slicked her raven tresses back into a bun

Wow: The stunner oozed confidence as she took to the stage

King Charles served in both the Navy and air force during his military career between 1971 and 1994. Top Gun: Maverick star Tom is known for his love of flying and appeared in the P-51 Mustang which featured in the film.

The cameo was part of a series of pre-recorded sketches revealing little-known facts about the monarch.

The King and Queen of the royal family joined around 20,000 members of the public at the Coronation Concert to continue the celebrations after their crowning at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

The Coronation Concert also saw performances by Paloma Faith Lionel Richie and veteran rock guitarist Steve Winwood. The show in Windsor, which was hosted by Downton Abbey and Paddington star Hugh Bonneville, started at 8pm.

Buckingham Palace promised 'global music icons and contemporary stars' for the big concert.

It was the highlight of the second day of coronation celebrations with around 20,000 members of the public attending.

Classical acts including Andrea Bocelli, Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel and Chinese pianist Lang Lang were also on the bill.

Here he is: Elsewhere during the show Tom Cruise made a surprise cameo in a surprise pre-recorded segment
Jamie Oliver shared a rare family snap on Sunday as he celebrated his eldest daughter Poppy turning 21.

The celebrity chef, 47, shares Poppy Honey, 21, Daisy Boo, 20, Petal Blossom, 14, Buddy Bear, 12, and River Rocket, six, with his wife Jools Oliver.

Posting to Instagram, the TV cook shared stunning black-and-white photographs of the lavish party, as the happy family posed by two disco balls.

Jamie grinned proudly as he was front and centre of the snap with an arm around his childhood sweetheart Jools, 48, with whom he has recently renewed his wedding vows.

However, fans were quick to spot that his youngest child, River Rocket, was missing from the celebrations.

What a night! Jamie Oliver, 47, shared a rare family snap to celebrate his daughter Poppy's (second left) birthday

Celebration: Jamie proudly posted snaps of his eldest daughter Poppy, 21, and son Buddy Bear, 12

Jamie wrote: 'Me and the gang on my daughter Poppys 21 st birthday party..whats a night 

'Thanks to all that celebrated with us and who helped put the party together big love jamie xx'

Jamie looked dapper in a velvet jacket, while Jools also turned heads in an elegant off-the-shoulder maxi dress with statement glittery earrings.

Meanwhile his daughter Poppy was very much the birthday girl in a semi-sheer black ensemble with tiny snaps, as she posed for a more colourful snap with her brother Buddy.

It comes after teenage sweethearts Jamie and Jools renewed their wedding vows in April - 23 years after tying the knot.

The celebrity chef shared an intimate carousel of family snaps to Instagram, after saying 'I do' for a second time at the Soneva Fushi Resort in the Maldives.

For the special occasion, Jamie looked dapper in a blue blazer and matching trousers, teamed with a crisp white shirt and a lapel flower.

Jools looked elegant in an off-the-shoulder wedding dress, complete with a ruffled design and a thigh-high slit.

Happy couple: The celebrity chef also posed with his wife Jools after they renewed their wedding vows

Her brunette locks were styled straight with a white bow holding her hair in place, while she accessorised with pearl drop earrings.

She opted for a bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features, teamed with a swipe of nude lipstick.

Alongside the photos, Jamie penned: 'Morning all, Me & @joolsoliver got married again! Yep After 23 years together, we thought it would be a special moment to celebrate renewing our wedding vows before the kids all start leaving the nest.

'It was really special, funny and romantic with the words in the ceremony making more sense having come this far together.

'It seems like a blink since the first wedding which we kept very privet apart from the paparazzi at the village church we thought it would be a happy and joyful moment to share with you all this Easter.

'Weve always dreamed of going to the Maldives and it was just as you would have dreamed, simply amazing ! a massive thank you to all the team at @discoversoneva for blowing our minds and making this moment so special and memorable big love guys Jamie x'

Jamie later shared more snaps of the ceremony on his Instagram Stories, including a selfie with his wife and daughters which he captioned: 'My queens'.

Jools also shared her own selection of snaps on her social media, writing: 'So wonderful the first time we did it again. What an incredible memory to treasure so happy, emotional, romantic and beautiful. Seeing the childrens little faces made the whole experience so special. I could only have dreamed of being on a holiday this magical thank you so much Discover Soneva.

Family: The pair, who have been together since the age of 18, share five kids together, including Poppy Honey, 20, Daisy Boo, 19, Petal Blossom, 13, Buddy Bear, 11 and River Rocket, five (pictured their daughters)

Alongside the photos, Jamie penned: 'Morning all, Me & @joolsoliver got married again! Yep After 23 years together, we thought it would be a special moment to celebrate renewing our wedding vows before the kids all start leaving the nest.'

'Your care, attention to detail and unbelievable kindness made everything so special almost feels like it was a dream xxx

Jools and Jamie first began dating when they were teenagers and tied the knot in the chef's home village of Rickling, Essex, on June 24, 2000.

Speaking in 2019 about renewing their vows, Jools said: 'Next year, well have been married 20 years, and were going to get married again, but do things differently  outside and barefoot.

Looking back on their first trip down the aisle, she recalled: 'Our first dance was to Dusty Springfields I Only Want To Be With You, but Jamie doesnt like dancing, so I threw him off. I was in my element!'

Chef Jamie, who hails from Essex, reportedly has a net worth over 240million.
Olivia Wilde had a big smile on her face as she spent time with one of her great loves on Sunday.

The actress and director, 39, took her son Otis, nine out to grab some food from Little Dom's in LA as they enjoyed some quality time together.

Olivia is also mother to daughter Daisy, six from a previous relationship with Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis.

She looked casually cool wearing a white top under a cropped Adidas zip-up top, as well as a hat and Gazelle trainers.

Olivia and Jason. who officially split back in November 2020, have been involved in a bitter child custody battle over their two children.

Hanging out together: Olivia Wilde had a big smile on her face as she and her son Otis, 9, enjoyed some quality time while picking up dinner together in LA on Sunday

Fashionable: She looked casually cool wearing a white top under a cropped Adidas zip-up top, as well as a hat and Gazelle trainers

The Hollywood stars have additionally been thrust back in the spotlight amid their former nanny's wrongful termination lawsuit.

Jason and Olivia claimed in new legal documents, per TMZ, that their former nanny, Ericka Gernaro, did not file her wrongful termination lawsuit correctly in California as a civil lawsuit.

They further claim that the lawsuit should have been filed in the state of New York as a private arbitration. The former couple informed TMZ in a statement published on Thursday that, 'It is unfortunate that this private matter continues to play out in the press.'

'Our focus has been and will continue to be to steadfastly protect our family in the face of harassment of any kind. We are confident that the evidence brought forward will affirm our position to summarily dismiss this case and bring our family peace.'

Ericka, who had worked for the Hollywood stars from 2018 until 2021, claimed earlier this year in February that she was fired after asking for a three day medical leave due to the stress of the job. However, both Jason and Olivia allege that she was not fired, but that she actually resigned.

The former couple says that nanny Ericka Genaro had her salary doubled in 2020 and that she was 'taken care of by the family.'

In one instance, they say that they paid for her and her dog to stay in London's Rosewood Hotel, after she left her job. The final bill came for over $22,000 thanks in-part to food and booze room service.

They further claim that travel expenses of around $17,000 for Ericka to move from London to the United States was also reimbursed.

Court filings: Olivia claimed last month that while her ex Jason Sudeikis is assisting with their children's school tuition, all other expenses are being covered by her only; the former couple seen in January 2020

They also allege that Genaro was in breach of her working agreement by going to the media about the couple's intimate problems as well as lying about her criminal record. They are quoted as saying that Genaro has described herself as 'ruthless.'

The TMZ report says that Sudeikis and his former fiancee allege that Genaro only began to have issues with her job when she demanded a tax-free pay raise.

Genaro has previously told DailyMail.com how the Horrible Bosses star would text her about his concerns as Olivia Wilde started to see Harry Styles more often, before bringing Genaro on a trip to London.

But the former celebrity couple quickly hit back at Genaro's claims, calling them 'false and scurrilous.'

They repeated that assertion in a statement to DailyMail.com about Genaro's lawsuit, saying: 'As parents, it is incredibly upsetting to learn that a former nanny of our two young children would choose to make such false and scurrilous accusations about us publicly.'

The former nanny's lawsuit also claims that she was put in the middle of Jason and Olivia's split and claimed Wilde 'abruptly left' home and her two children amid the break up.

'Wilde's sudden absence from the home had an adverse consequence on its emotional state, including Sudeikis leaning on the presence of Plaintiff for support,' the suit claims.

A source told DailyMail.com that in fact Wilde did not 'suddenly' move out but rather was filming between Los Angeles and Palm Springs while Sudeikis and their children were in London.

Olivia and Jason have also been in a child custody battle of their own, with the actress claiming last month in April in documents obtained by The Blast, that the actor is not paying for child support.

She claimed that while Sudeikis is assisting with their children's school tuition, all other expenses are being covered by her only. Last month, she also plead poverty in court filings.

Despite being worth $10 million, Olivia, who was served legal documents last year during the 2022 CinemaCon amid the child custody battle, claimed that the Ted Lasso star is prolonging the court battle to 'litigate her into debt.'
Dean Gaffney and Joe Swash's bromance heated up a notch during new scenes in I'm A Celebrity South Africa, which is due to air on Monday night.

Former EastEnders star Joe, 41, offered to give Dean, 45, a shave because there are no mirrors in camp and it seems they both enjoyed the experience.

Admitting they 'like the contact,' Dean couldn't help but notice that Joe is 'tender and soft with his hands.'

Getting to grips with the razor, Joe asked Dean: 'Are you down or up when you do yours?'

'Up that way,' he replied.

'He's tender and soft with his hands': I'm A Celebrity's Dean Gaffney and Joe Swash's bromance heats up with intimate shaving moment on Monday

Sweet: The former EastEnders stars admitted they 'like the contact'

Joe continued: 'That's coming off quite well when you do it slowly.'

Dean who also used to star in EastEnders, said: ' The problem is in here, you don't have a mirror so you can't see yourself when you're having a shave.

'Joe has come in and is helping a friend out. He's quite tender and quite soft with his hands.'

Joe, who is married to Stacey Solomon, said: 'This is so weird isn't it, what has happened to us.

'We were in Ocean Beach Club on my stag do a couple of months ago having it large and now look at us.'

Talking to the camera, Joe said: 'I just like that contact and luckily Deb is the same as me.'

Then looking at the results of the shave, Joe concluded: 'Ah you look better, look at me. That's knocked about five years off you Gaffney. '

Joe recently said he had 'the worst' exit ever on EastEnders and would like the opportunity to return to the soap but he hasn't been asked.

Talking to the camera, Joe said: 'I just like that contact and luckily Deb is the same as me'

Dean said: 'Joe has come in and is helping a friend out. He's quite tender and quite soft with his hands.'

Can we have two champions? The two have turned out to be unlikely icons during their stint on the show

The actor portrayed fan favourite Mickey Miller from 2003 to 2008 before briefly returning in 2011 for his on-screen brother Darren's departure.

Speaking with fellow EastEnders star Dean in Friday's episode of I'm A Celebrity South Africa, Joe admitted he wasn't happy with how he left the show.

According to The Sun, Carol Vorderman asks Joe if he will return to Watford, to which he says: 'I wouldn't mind it.

'You know exactly what you're doing, when you're doing it, how you're doing it.

'But they've never asked me mate, not once.'

The soap star then admitted he wished he had been given a more dramatic exit storyline as many characters get.

He said: 'I had the worst outro ever! I didn't even leave at the end of the episode.

'So usually you leave at the end of the episode and you get the 'doof doof'.

'Mine, I went to Norwich to be a bell boy at a hotel and mid scene I just walked into the Vic and went, 'Right, see you later'.

'They turned back to Phil, turned back to me and I'd gone. I was like, 'What, that's it?' I was there five years and not one doof doof!'

Speaking in the Bush Telegraph, Joe reiterated EastEnders have not reached out to him to return.

Role: Joe, 41 portrayed fan favourite Mickey Miller from 2003 to 2008 before briefly returning in 2011 for his on-screen brother Darren's departure

Success: Just a few months after leaving EastEnders, Joe took part in I'm A Celebrity and was crowned King of the Jungle (pictured in 2008)

Superstar: Dean played Robbie Fowler on the same show, whose best friend was a dog called Wellard

He said: 'People think I can phone up EastEnders and go, 'I'm ready to come back now guys'.

'They have not phoned me. Let me make this clear EastEnders have never phoned me to get me back on the show.'

Just a few months after leaving EastEnders, Joe took part in I'm A Celebrity and was crowned King of the Jungle.

He then went on to present I'm A Celebrity's spin-off series a year after being crowned 'King of the Jungle'.

In 2010, he met his now wife Stacey Solomon, who had also just won the series, and the pair started dating. They have since gone on to have three children together and married in 2022.

I'm A Celebrity... South Africa airs tonight at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX, catch up on the full series on ITVX.
Helen Flanagan used to get in 'trouble all the time' with Coronation Street bosses for ruining scene continuity with her love of fake tan.

The actress, 32, who played Rosie Webster in the soap until her exit in 2018, admitted ITV executives would go 'absolutely mental' when she would come in 'really pale' one day and 'bright orange' the next.

Speaking on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa, she said: 'I used to get in trouble all the time because of my fake tan. One time I'd be really pale and then the next time I'd be bright orange.

'They go mental if you do stuff like that, they go absolutely mental. They flip if continuity changes mid-scene.'

Dean Gaffney also reflected on his time on EastEnders playing Robbie Jackson and admitted he once had blunder by getting an eyebrow tint while filming.

'They go absolutely mental': Helen Flanagan used to get in 'trouble all the time' with Coronation Street bosses for ruining scene continuity with her love of fake tan

'I used to get in trouble all the time': The actress, 32, who played Rosie Webster in the soap until 2018, would come in 'really pale' one day and 'bright orange' the next (pictured in 2017)

He said: 'I was going to Dubai so I nipped off between scenes for a tint but I fell asleep and she left it on too long.

'First person I saw was [co-star] Danny Dyer. He was like: "You alright son?" but make-up were fuming. They were rubbing at them [eyebrows] for ages, exfoliating, all sorts.'

During Friday's episode, Joe Swash complained he had the 'worst outro ever' on EastEnders as the campmates discussed their challenging experiences in the television industry.

The contestants discussed the BBC One soap opera as both Joe and Dean both previously starred in it.

Dean revealed he would go back to the show even after returning five times already.

The discussion led to Joe, who previously portrayed Mickey Miller on the show, admitted: 'I wouldn't mind (going back), you know.

'Purely because of the family. Because you know what you're doing, how you're doing it, when you're doing it. They've never asked me to go back in again, not once, mate!'

When asked about how things ended for his character, the actor added: '(It was) the worst outro ever... I didn't even leave at the end of the episode.

'You know you leave and you get the "duff duff"? Mine, I went to Norwich to be a bellboy at a hotel and mid-scene just walked in The Vic, went, "See you later", turned back to Phil, come to me and I'd gone.

'What? That was it? No "duff duff". I was there five years and not one "duff duff"!'

I'm A Celebrity... South Africa continues at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX on Monday.

Speaking on I'm A Celebrity... South Africa, she said: 'I used to get in trouble all the time because of my fake tan. One time I'd be really pale and then the next time I'd be bright orange'
The Government is engaging the manufacturing and retail sectors with a view of establishing their operational challenges and arresting business malpractices causing unprecedented consumer price hikes.

This follows the recent arbitrary price increases that have seen prices of basic commodities shooting up dramatically beyond the reach of many low income earners.

In a statement yesterday, the Minister of Industry and Commerce Minister Dr Sekai Nzenza said all stakeholders concerned were being engaged as the Government seeks to find a lasting solution to this situation.

Following the observed spike in prices of basic commodities, the Ministry has held frank and fruitful engagements with manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers of basic commodities over the past week in a bid to find a lasting solution to the observed matter, she said.

The Minister also set the record straight there were no shortages of basic commodities in the economy.

The Ministry, in liaison with relevant arms of Government, continues to advocate for the availability of foreign currency to productive sectors of the economy and to achieve macro-economic stability.

We also assure the private sector that issues brought forward in our engagements are being attended to for the benefit of the consumers.

Dr Nzenza also issued a stern warning to errant business people that are demanding payment of some basic goods exclusively in forex.

It has also come to our attention that some suppliers of basic commodities have been observed demanding payment exclusively in foreign currency for certain basic commodities in violation of the dual currency pricing system adopted by the Government.

Furthermore, a few manufacturers of basic goods have been observed selling goods that are below the prescribed weight and volume and corrective action will always be taken to protect consumers.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is among others mandated to safeguard and promote consumer welfare in the economy.

Zimbabwe continues to witness increases in investments, exports, production and capacity utilisation, which have all contributed invaluably towards the countrys economic growth trajectory

Currently, the shelf occupancy of locally manufactured goods stands at 80 percent, a development which is set to continue bolstering Zimbabwes comparative, competitive and adaptability advantages to move the economy up the value chains. Herald
Barry Humphries will be given a state funeral held in Sydney, it has been revealed.

The family of the comedy legend, who died in April, picked the city for the service over Melbourne, which was another option.

An offer from Victoria's Andrews government was refused by the actor's loved ones, The Daily Telegraph reports.

It is understood to be a joint ceremony hosted by both states to send off the star, best known for his alter ego Dame Edna Everage.

No other details are currently known, with Premier Daniel Andrews saying last week, 'I can't confirm for you where the service will be, or where the funeral will be'.

Barry Humphries (pictured) will be given a state funeral held in Sydney, it has been revealed. The family of the comedy legend, who died in April, picked the city for the service over Melbourne, which was another option

Humphries reportedly fought a secret battle with inoperable cancer for years before his death last month.

The Australian actor and comic died aged 89 on April 22, following complications from a recent hip replacement surgery.

In late April, Humphries was farewelled at a private funeral by family and friends, who made last-minute arrangements to be there after being only given 24 hours' notice.

The private ceremony was held at the Bowral estate of his long-time friend and artist Tim Storrier on Friday in the NSW Southern Highlands.

An offer from Victoria's Andrews government was refused by the actor's loved ones, The Daily Telegraph reports. It is understood to be a joint ceremony hosted by both states to send off the star, best known for his alter ego Dame Edna Everage (pictured)

'It was a small affair, just family and close friends,' film director Bruce Beresford said.

Also at the ceremony were Humphries' sons Oscar and Rupert, who flew in from London, as well as his daughters Emily and Tessa, brother Christopher and sister Barbara.

Beresford said no speeches were made, but excerpts from some of Humphries' favourite poems were read, including three verses from his favourite poem, The Heart of a Friend by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

'It was very touching, very warm. Everybody was either related or a great friend of Barry's,' Beresford said.
Men Behaving Badly star Neil Morrissey and Line Of Duty star Adrian Dunbar let their hair down on Sunday night.

The cheeky duo were pictured leaving Park Theatre's 10th anniversary party in Finsbury Park where they enjoyed some female company.

Neil, 60, was pictured having a very animated conversation with one pretty brunette outside the venue as he moved in for a friendly kiss goodbye.

The lady in question is Melanie Bond, the Co-founder and Creative Director of the theatre.

Neil was previously married to Amanda Noar from 1989 - 1991 but it's not known if he is currently in a relationship.

Fun night: Neil Morrissey, (pictured) and Line Of Duty star Adrian Dunbar enjoyed a playful night out with two ladies at a theatre bash on Sunday

Loving life: The cheeky duo were pictured leaving Park Theatre's 10th anniversary party in Finsbury Park - Adrian pictured with a pal

A helping hand: Adrian, 64, could be seen leaving the party with a bottle of champagne in hand, which was gifted to all guests that evening

Adrian, 64, could be seen leaving the party with a bottle of champagne in hand, which was gifted to all guests that evening.

He too was pictured larking around with a female friend who he linked arms with to help guide her outside as she carried a glass of champagne in hand.

While outside, Adrian gave her a friendly kiss goodbye before heading home.

There is nothing to suggest the pair are anything other than friends - Adrian has been married to Anna Nygh, an Australian actress and casting director, since 1986.

They have a daughter called Madeleine together and Adrian once praised his wife for being the only person who could 'handle' him.

Speaking on Radio 4 in 2021, Adrian opened up about how lucky he felt to meet Anna.

He said: 'I don't know anyone else I could have hooked up with who could have handled me. I've got my woman and she's a very good one.

The actor then said: 'I wouldn't let her down.'

In another interview with the Daily Telegraph, Adrian - who plays Detective Ted Hastings, said his wife 'laughs' at his sex symbol status.

Getting along well: Neil was also seen planting a friendly kiss on the lady in red

Cheeky! He was then pictured planting a kiss on Melanie Bond, the Co-founder and Creative Director Emeritus of the theatre

Keeping in touch? They were showing one another things on their phones

Fun times: Neil was sporting a bushy beard as he was pictured leaving the establishment

Hug it out: Neil got a big hug from his friend before putting his hands around her face

Iconic: Neil is best known for playing Tony in British sitcom Men Behaving Badly

Fun times: Neil looked like his famous TV character Tony as he drank a pint inside

He said: 'Everyone likes a man in a uniform, don't they? I was blindsided by that. I thought there would be a lot of things that would come off the back of this part, but definitely not being a sex symbol.'

Tickets to the party were 500 each, which included food and drinks, as well as a souvenir programme.

Or guests could pay 15,000 and have the same experience but with Sir Ian McKellen hosted your table.

And it looked like they were having a great time.

Bottom's up! Adrian looked like he was giving his pal a helping hand as she carried her glass of champagne in hand

Ready for Strictly Come Dancing? Adrian swung his pal around for a farewell hug

Having fun: He whispered something in her ear as the evening came to a close

Hanging out: The group all looked like they were having a great conversation

Catching up! There was clearly lots to talk about on the night

His love: Adrian has been married to Anna Nygh, an Australian actress and casting director, since 1986

What a line-up! Martin Clunes, pictured top-left with his castmates Neil, Caroline Quentin and Leslie Ash in Men Behaving Badly

Claim to fame: Adrian pictured as Ted Hastings (right) in a still from Line Of Duty

Earlier that night: Adrian (L) and Neil posed for pictures together at the party
Abbie Chatfield knows how to relax before she takes the mic for her radio show.

The podcaster shared a video to Instagram Stories on Monday that showed her getting a foot rub from co-star Jimmy Smith ahead of hitting the airwaves.

'Pre-show warm up!' the 27-year-old captioned the intimate moment.

Further clips showed Abbie and Jimmy playing footsies at their desk, which Abbie captioned, 'team bonding'.

It comes after the former reality star revealed she is now in an 'exclusive' relationship with a new man.

Abbie Chatfield (pictured) knows how to relax before she takes the mic for her radio show

The podcaster shared a video to Instagram Stories on Monday that showed her getting a foot rub from co-star Jimmy Smith (pictured) ahead of hitting the airwaves

'Pre-show warm up!' the 27-year-old captioned the intimate moment

Speaking on stage during the Adelaide leg of her Trauma Dump tour, the podcast host said she was 'trying out' monogamy again.

But she admitted she was confused by some of the terms involved.

'I don't get monogamous language,' she told the sold-out crowd at the Thebarton Theatre in Torrensville.

'I didn't know what exclusive meant.'

The Hit Network presenter did not reveal the identity of her partner, telling the audience her new relationship was still in its very early stages.

Further clips showed Abbie and Jimmy playing footsies at their desk, which Abbie captioned, 'team bonding'

'It's been six days!' she said.

She also addressed rumours she'd dated American musician Yung Gravy while he was in the country in February.

At the time, footage surfaced online of Abbie and the Betty rapper, 27, looking cosy at several venues in Sydney.

Abbie commented on the speculation at her Adelaide show, shutting down reports the two had slept together.

'I certainly didn't spend two nights at his hotel [with Gravy],' she said in a sarcastic tone, leaving the audience to speculate.

The bisexual media personality broke up with Bachelorette star Konrad Bien-Stephen (right) last August after dating non-exclusively for about a year

'Nothing happened. We just had Macca's.'

Gravy is not the first high-profile man Abbie has been romantically linked to.

The bisexual media personality broke up with Bachelorette star Konrad Bien-Stephen last August after dating non-exclusively for about a year.

Abbie is touring the country telling tales of some pretty concerning past relationships, which saw the Adelaide audience swing between roaring with laughter and fighting back tears.

She also shared adorable photos from when she'd appeared in the local newspaper as a child, joking paparazzi had been following her since birth.

'My trauma is your joy,' she said.
In their first public sighting since March 17, TikTok creator Addison Rae and her boyfriend - four-time Grammy-nominated music producer Omer Fedi - went shopping together at Bottega Veneta in West Hollywood on Sunday.

The Louisiana-born 22-year-old wore a white slip dress featuring blue polka dots and lace trim, with a canvas recyclable bag and sandals for her retail therapy at the Melrose Place boutique.

The Israeli 23-year-old - who last worked on Sam Smith's song Gloria - was dressed down in a baggy white T-shirt, baggy black ripped jeans, and sneakers.

Addison rarely posts about Omer, whom she met through her He's All That co-star Kourtney Kardashian in Venice Beach in June 2021.

That same day, Rae (last name Easterling) posted a TikTok video of herself lip-synching to Lana Del Rey's new song Taco Truck x VB while wearing shimmery eye shadow.

Still going strong! TikTok creator Addison Rae and her boyfriend - four-time Grammy-nominated music producer Omer Fedi - went shopping together at Bottega Veneta in West Hollywood on Sunday

The Addison Rae Fragrance founder recently returned to California from Canada after wrapping her mystery role in the long-gestating slasher Thanksgiving last Friday.

Emmy nominee Patrick Dempsey plays the town sheriff in Eli Roth's big-screen adaptation of his own faux trailer from Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's 2007 film Grindhouse, which hits US theaters ahead of turkey day on November 17.

The TriStar Pictures flick also features Gina Gershon, Jalen Thomas Brooks, Milo Manheim, Tim Dillon, Rick Hoffman, and Nell Verlaque.

Thanksgiving centers on 'a killer who visits a small town in Massachusetts with the hopes of creating a carving board out of the towns turkey-loving inhabitants' - according to Variety.

But Addison first found fame as a content creator with an eye-popping 136.7M social media following.

Leggy lady: The Louisiana-born 22-year-old wore a white slip dress featuring blue polka dots and lace trim, with a canvas recyclable bag and sandals for her retail therapy at the Melrose Place boutique

Ditched the red hair! The Israeli 23-year-old - who last worked on Sam Smith's song Gloria - was dressed down in a baggy white T-shirt, baggy black ripped jeans, and sneakers

PDA pic: Addison rarely posts about Omer (R, pictured January 1), whom she met through her He's All That co-star Kourtney Kardashian in Venice Beach in June 2021

Selfie enthusiast: That same day, Rae (last name Easterling) posted a TikTok video of herself lip-synching to Lana Del Rey's new song Taco Truck x VB while wearing shimmery eye shadow

Action! The Addison Rae Fragrance founder recently returned to California from Canada after wrapping her mystery role in the long-gestating slasher Thanksgiving last Friday

Hitting US theaters on November 17! Emmy nominee Patrick Dempsey (L, pictured April 18) plays the town sheriff in Eli Roth's (R) big-screen adaptation of his own faux trailer from Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's 2007 film Grindhouse
Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Mary Steenburgen and Candice Bergen's new film Book Club: The Next Chapter is set to be released on Friday, May 12.

The stars were seen arriving to NBC Studios in New York City on Monday morning during their whirlwind promotional tour for the film.

Jane, 85, looked incredible in an olive pantsuit, adding white slip-on shoes and a quilted bag.

Diane, 77, cut a chic figure in a black turtleneck with matching slacks, while holding her hat in one hand.

Mary Steenburgen, 70, stunned in a green and white flower frock with a cinched waist, adding white boots.

Legends: Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Mary Steenburgen and Candice Bergen's new film Book Club: The Next Chapter is set to be released on Friday, May 12

Icons: The stars were seen arriving to NBC Studios in New York City on Monday morning during their whirlwind promotional tour for the film

Candice, 76, donned a blue top with black slacks, adding an orange jacket on top to round out of her look.

Book Club: The Next Chapter is a sequel to the hit film Book Club, which was released in 2018.

Director Bill Holderman returns for the sequel; he co-wrote the sequel with Erin Simms.

Book Club was Bill's directorial debut; he also co-wrote the original film with Erin.

The original film centered around the four stars as they read the steam book Fifty Shades of Grey.

Book Club: The Next Chapter is about the ladies as they head to Italy for a girls trip.

In the group's interview with Savannah Guthrie, Candace claimed credit for including Italy in the plot.

Stunning: Jane, 85, looked incredible in an olive pantsuit, adding white slip-on shoes and a quilted bag

Incredible: Jane said in a recent interview that she is the 'happiest' she's ever been - at age 85

Elegant: Diane, 77, cut a chic figure in a black turtleneck with matching slacks, while holding her hat in one hand

May 12: Book Club: The Next Chapter is a sequel to the hit film Book Club, which was released in 2018

'Others arranged it,' the Oscar winner explained,' and we had wonderful time.'

Mary said she had the most fun while shooting the project.

'I was the one with a husband there, and my ancient 17-and-a-half year old dog, Arthur, 'Arturo,' in Rome,' she said.

The women have created a lasting friendship through the films and the experience lead Mary to write lyrics for the song over the closing credits and all four lent their voices to the track.

'It's a love song to them,' she explained.

Jane, Candace and Mary later skedaddled over to the Sirius XM studios where they spoke with Andy Cohen for his radio show, Radio Andy.

The host looked dapper in a charcoal gray suit with a blue shirt and green tie.

Radio: After their appearance on Today, Jane, Candace and Mary later skedaddled over to the Sirius XM studios where they spoke with Andy Cohen for his radio show, Radio Andy. The host looked dapper in a charcoal gray suit with a blue shirt and green tie

Love song: Mary wrote the lyrics to the song over the closing credits of Book Club: The Next Chapter and all four of the women sang the track. The actress called the melody a 'love song' to her friends and co-stars

Jane said in a recent interview that she is the 'happiest' she's ever been - at age 85.

The star spoke to People magazine about the experience of aging as well as how she has faced adversity in her life.

'There's been tragedy and hard things in my life. But I've never succumbed to them. I've been resilient all my life,' she told the outlet.

On getting older: 'A bad thing happens, and you think, "Well, that's happened before and I'm fine. I'll get over it." You know what's important. I spent a lot of time like a canoe with no paddle being carried in the current. As I got older. I learned I'm going to put an oar in the water and steer,' Jane said.
Julia Fox kept her look low key but stylish as she arrived at Los Angeles International Airport Sunday.

The actress, 33, who slammed the Met Gala for honoring controversial designer Karl Lagerfeld, stepped out in gray yoga pants and a black T-shirt.

She wore a green leather jacket for warmth against the chilly night temperatures.

The Uncut Gems actress appeared makeup free, showcasing her smooth complexion. She styled her dark hair in a high bun, and wore sunglasses to maintain her privacy.

Fox then went on social media to tell fans she is visiting Los Angeles for an 'important meeting.'

Low key: Julia Fox kept her look low key but stylish as she arrived at Los Angeles International Airport. The actress, 33, stepped out in gray yoga pants and a black T-shirt. She wore a green leather jacket for warmth against the chilly night temperatures

As the influencer rushed to make her flight in New York, Julia apologized to a fan in a video posted on her Instagram Stories before she boarded her flight.

'There was a girl in terminal one who asked to take a photo with me and I had to say "no" because my driver dropped me off at the wrong terminal.

'It wouldn't have been a big deal, but I was checking a bag,' explaining she was about to miss the cut-off time for doing so.

'I have a really important meeting in LA at noon,' she explained, 'and this was the last flight out to LA.

'I had to say "no" and I'm so sorry, like, I've been thinking about it ever since, okay?'

'So, I just need to get this off my chest,' she continued walking through the facility.

'I love you, I'm so sorry, and if it's any consolation, I made it to the counter with one minute to spare, so if I had stopped to take the photo, I would have missed the f**king tram and then, there goes my whole life. I love you and I'm sure we will cross paths again.'

Julia didn't hint at the nature of the important project, but she was spotted arriving safely in Los Angeles, with her checked bag.

Smooth complexion: The Uncut Gems actress appeared makeup free, showcasing her smooth complexion. She styled her dark hair in a high bun, and wore sunglasses to maintain her privacy

Apology: Julia apologized to a fan in New York for not stopping to take a photo with her in an Instagram Stories video. 'I had to say "no" because my driver dropped me off at the wrong terminal,' explaining she would have missed the cut-off for checking her bag

Important meeting: Julia revealed she had 'a really important meeting in LA at noon,' she explained, 'and this was the last flight out to LA'

In a February interview on the Good Children podcast to promote her book Down the Drain, in which she details her own journey from being a childhood outcast to a fashion icon and cultural influencer.

She detailed being sent to Italy for school after acting out in middle school put her in a pipeline to for one of New York's rougher high schools.

'I'm really happy I went, because I did get a really good education and I was exposed to just exposed to such a beautiful culture and... good taste and good food.'

The cover model who is known around the world claimed she doesn't identify as a celebrity.

'This was all very accidental,' she said, revealing she didn't set out to be famous.

'This life chose me. I'm just showing up for it at the best of my abilities, but at the end of the day, I'm just an artist and I've always been.

I'm performative but I'm very artistic as well and I love to write and I can act and I can pretty much to anything... if I set my mind to it.

'I believe, as cheesy as it is, if you believe in yourself, it becomes true.'
Angelina Jolie has shared a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram.

On Monday morning the Oscar-winning Girl, Interrupted actress posted an old photo with her mother Marcheline Bertrand.

Jolie had blonder hair as she wore a white summer dress and beige straw hat while posing with her mom, who passed away in 2007, in the early Eighties.

The resemblance of the 47-year-old Maleficent actress to her mother - who was also an actress - is unmistakable.

In her caption, the mother of six - who was seen leaving Washington DC last week - penned a sweet message. 'Tomorrow would have been my mothers 73rd birthday,' began the ex-wife of Brad Pitt.

Her sad loss: Angelina Jolie has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late mother Marcheline Bertrand on Instagram on Monday morning. In her caption, she penned a sweet message. 'Tomorrow would have been my mothers 73rd birthday,' began the ex-wife of Brad Pitt

Hard to look back: Jolie then explained that Marcheline passed away 15 years ago. It was 'after a long struggle with breast and ovarian cancer,' noted the humanitarian. 'In June, I will be a month away from the age when she was diagnosed,' she shared; seen in April

Hard truth to face: 'In June, I will be a month away from the age when she was diagnosed,' she noted. 'I have had preventive surgeries to try to lessen chances but I continue to have check ups,' she said. Seen with her mother in 2001

Jolie then explained that Marcheline passed away 15 years ago.

It was 'after a long struggle with breast and ovarian cancer,' noted the humanitarian.

'In June, I will be a month away from the age when she was diagnosed,' she said.

'I have had preventive surgeries to try to lessen chances but I continue to have check ups,' wrote the Those Who Wish Me Dead star.

Jolie underwent a double mastectomy in 2013 so she would not get breast cancer.

It was what is called a prophylactic double mastectomy. That means she had both of her breasts removed even though she had not been diagnosed with breast cancer. She said she did this because she carries a gene, called BRCA1, that significantly increases the odds of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

Jolie then talked about her mother's personality.

'My mom loved Hendrix. And would always sign her letters Kiss the Sky,' shared the Salt star.

'It took on new meaning after she passed. Sending my love to those who have also lost loved ones and strength to those who are fighting at this very moment for their lives and the lives of those they love.

Mama bear: (L-R) Maddox, Vivienne, Angelina, Knox, Shiloh, and Zahara attend the Los Angeles premiere of Eternals in 2021

'And to other women, please take the time to look after yourself and go for your mammograms and blood tests or ultrasounds, particularly if you have a family history of cancer.'

She then said that there was more info in her bio and added '#WOCD2023 #worldovariancancerday.'

Beverly Hills, 90210 actress Shannen Doherty, who has cancer, liked the post.

Jolie's father is actor Jon Voight whom she acted with in Tomb Raider. The two have had a difficult relationship but do not seem to be estranged.

This comes after Jolie and her son Maddox were among the high-profile names to attend the White House state dinner in the nation's capitol in late April.

This year, President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden hosted South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife Kim Keon-hee in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-ROK alliance.

Angelina and her eldest child, 21, were dressed to the nines for the lavish affair and had the pleasure of witnessing President Yoon belt out Don McLean's 1971 hit American Pie.

Maddox - who was adopted by the actress from Cambodia in 2002 - is very familiar with South Korea after studying biochemistry at Yonsei University in Seoul.

Angelina flew to South Korea to send her son off to college in August 2019.

In DC! Jolie and her son Maddox were among the high-profile names to attend the White House state dinner in the nation's capitol

Meet n greet: Kim Keon Hee (L), wife of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, meets with US actress Angelina

They first visited the school, as well as other college campuses in South Korea, in late 2018.

Although he 'got accepted to other universities,' Maddox ultimately decided that Yonsei was the right fit for him, as reported by PEOPLE at the time.

Along with biochemistry courses, the outlet claimed that Maddox was 'studying Korean language.'

But Maddox's study abroad was interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic which forced him to trade in-person classes for online school.

As a result, he returned to his family home in Los Angeles in March 2020, according to Angelina, who opened up about her son's education in an interview with Extra that year.

She worked with the UN for 20 years: The humanitarian said she is dedicated to working with refugees

Because his classes remained on Korea time, the Changeling star revealed that Maddox had no choice but to become a night owl.

'He had to stay back from Korea. He's going online, and so I think he starts at 6pm at night,' she told the outlet.

Maddox eventually retuned to South Korea in March of 2021 after a year of remote learning.

The Sun reported in 2021 that classes - specifically 'labs, studio and field study courses' - recommenced that April.

Angelina previously gushed over her son's ambitious academic pursuits to PEOPLE in 2019, telling the outlet that she is 'nothing but proud' of him.

She added: 'I look forward to all he will do.' It's unclear whether or not Maddox has officially completed his degree at Yonsei.
The Weeknd may no longer exist.

In the new issue of W Magazine, the 33-year-old artist said that he wants to 'kill off' his music persona.

And in the future, the crooner from Canada wants to go by his birth name Abel Tesfaye.

'I'm going through a cathartic path right now,' began the ex beau of Bella Hadid and Selena Gomez.

'It's getting to a place and a time where I'm getting ready to close the Weeknd chapter,' he declared before adding he will 'still make music, maybe as Abel, maybe as The Weeknd.'

Bye big star! The Weeknd may no longer exist. In the new issue of W Magazine, the 33-year-old artist said that he wants to 'kill off' his music persona

In hiding? And in the future, the crooner from Canada wants to go by his birth name Abel Tesfaye

Catharsis: 'I'm going through a cathartic path right now,' began the ex beau of Bella Hadid and Selena Gomez

His full birth name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, but he came to fame as The Weeknd with the 2016 album Starboy.

However, he is done with the moniker. 'I still want to kill The Weeknd. And I will. Eventually. I'm definitely trying to shed that skin and be reborn.'

Tesfaye continued, 'The album I'm working on now is probably my last hurrah as The Weeknd. This is something that I have to do.

'As The Weeknd, I've said everything I can say.'

And the performer shared that being both The Weeknd and Abel the actor has not been easy on his health.

'I had to take off the Weeknd outfit, put on Tedros's wig, shoot with Jocelyn, then go back to being The Weeknd,' he said.

'Then, after the concert, I lost my voice. No voice came out at all. That's never happened before.

'My theory is that I forgot how to sing because I was playing Tedros, a character who doesn't know how to sing. I may be looking too deeply into this, but it was terrifying.

New path: 'It's getting to a place and a time where I'm getting ready to close the Weeknd chapter,' he declared before adding he will 'still make music, maybe as Abel, maybe as The Weeknd

Birth name: His full birth name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, but he came to fame as The Weeknd with the 2016 album Starboy. However, he is done with the moniker. 'I still want to kill The Weeknd. And I will. Eventually. I'm definitely trying to shed that skin and be reborn'

New show: He is starring with Lily-Rose Depp in the series The Idol

'As The Weeknd, I've never skipped a concert. I've performed with the flu. I'll die on that stage. But there was something very complicated going on with my mind at that moment.'

It was not easy for him to step into acting.

'It was a challenge to redo The Idol, and, in truth, I sacrificed my health and home to make it work. So, let's say it comes out and it's f***ing horrible. I still know I did my absolute best.

'From what I've seen, the show is great. Everything is a risk: When you've done the best you can, I would call that a happy ending.'

His stunning costar: Lily was also interviewed for the magazine. She said she never thought she would get the part on The Idol

Lucky talent: 'I knew there would be many lovely ladies who are more musical than me, but I thought, I'll give it a go,' she said about auditioning for the show

Pop star: 'I wanted to wear pop-star colors, and I wanted to channel a certain L.A. feeling. 'I grew up in L.A., and I'm an L.A. girl, and so is Jocelyn,' she noted

W magazine presented to new covers for Volume 3, The Pop Issue, featuring four-time Tesfaye)alongside actress, model, and co-star of the highly anticipated new series, The Idol, Lily-Rose Depp.

Shot on two different continents with the help of FaceTime and Zoom, the creative covers ultimately came to life.

W Magazine's Pop Issue is on stands May 23.

Lily was also interviewed for the magazine.

She said she never thought she would get the part on The Idol.

'I knew there would be many lovely ladies who are more musical than me, but I thought, I'll give it a go.

'I wanted to wear pop-star colors, and I wanted to channel a certain L.A. feeling.

'I grew up in L.A., and I'm an L.A. girl, and so is Jocelyn. I wanted to capture the style mix of mischief and shine,' said the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis.

Her style: 'I wanted to capture the style mix of mischief and shine,' said the daughter of Johnny Depp and Vanessa Paradis

BB: And she talked her inspiration which was Brigitte Bardot. 'As a blonde, Jocelyn could be good; she could be evil. You never know. I grew up watching older films, especially French films. Women like Brigitte Bardot have beauty mixed with an 'I don't give a f**k' energy. I wanted that feeling for Jocelyn'

And she talked her inspiration which was Brigitte Bardot.

'As a blonde, Jocelyn could be good; she could be evil. You never know. I grew up watching older films, especially French films. Women like Brigitte Bardot have beauty mixed with an 'I don't give a f**k' energy. I wanted that feeling for Jocelyn.'

Series director, Sam Levinson, on how the show came to be: 'Abel came to us with a pitch.

'He said something that I'll always remember: If I wanted to start a cult, I could.

'What he meant is that his fans were so loyal and devoted that they would follow him anywhere. That was the germ of the idea for The Idol: what happens when a pop star falls for the wrong guy and no one speaks up.'
EastEnders aired its Coronation special on Monday night and there was the usual drama plaguing the Square amid the festivities.

The latest instalment saw the residents of Walford will gather together to celebrate the crowning of King Charles III, just like those around the UK did over the weekend.

But the episode ended with a bang as Sonia Fowler (Natalie Cassidy) discovered her boyfriend Reiss Colwell's (Jonny Freeman) huge secret he has been hiding.

Viewers were aware before Sonia that Reiss is married, although few details about the situation have been revealed.

It's Sonia birthday on the day and Reiss pulled out all the stops when it came to treats however he ended up arriving late to the celebrations.

Oh no: EastEnders aired its Coronation special on Monday night and there was the usual drama plaguing the Square amid the festivities as Sonia discovered Reiss' secret

Dishonest: Viewers were aware before Sonia that Reiss is married, although few details about the situation have been revealed

As Rocky Cotton (Brian Conley) contemplated telling Sonia about a mysterious phone call he overheard him taking, Reiss turned up, just in time for the coronation performance.

However, when Rocky later demanded the truth from Reiss, Sonia walked in and overheard everything, demanding that Reiss get out of her life.

Reiss stammered as he tried to explain what had happened. He said: 'I am married her name is Debbie. She is a very special women'.

Natalie then chucked him out of the house as she called him a 'two-faced liar' as the rest of the residents of the Square watched on in shock in the middle of their street party.

Reiss arrived in Walford ahead of Dot Branning's funeral last year as her great-nephew.

He and Sonia quickly struck up a bond at Dot's wake as they play their trumpet and trombone together.

Sonia was then seen taking Reiss upstairs before Dotty Cotton (Milly Zero) revealed trumpeter Sonia and Reiss had slept together.

Shock: Natalie then chucked him out of the house as she called him a 'two-faced liar' as the rest of the residents of the Square watched on in shock in the middle of their street party

Appearance: Reiss arrived in Walford ahead of Dot Branning's funeral last year as her great-nephew

Good pals: He and Sonia quickly struck up a bond at Dot's wake as they play their trumpet and trombone together

Fun: The latest instalment saw the residents of Walford will gather together to celebrate the crowning of King Charles III, just like those around the UK did over the weekend

Pub: As Rocky Cotton (Brian Conley) contemplated telling Sonia about a mysterious phone call he overheard him taking, Reiss turned up, just in time for the coronation performance

However, things quickly took a turn for the worst when Reiss ghosted Sonia for a month.

He eventually answered her calls and met up with Sonia to help her with her inheritance tax issues, enabling her to find a loophole in the law that meant she could keep her home without losing any money.

Reiss then told Sonia he had not been in contact as he hadn't had many girlfriends and he didn't want to mess anything up between the pair.

They later celebrated Sonia keeping her house by playing the trumpet and trombone together once again before enjoying a glass of champagne which led to a kiss.

Elsewhere in the special coronation episode as day dawns, Alfie Moon and Linda Carter (Shane Richie and Kellie Bright) prepared the Queen Vic for a coronation party, as the rest of the community excitedly got ready for a day of celebrations.

Throughout the episode, Walford residents were treated to a performance from Kim Fox (Tameka Empson) and Felix Baker (Matthew Morrison) as Dusty Springfield.

However, Kim was left distressed when she fails to spot Denzel Danes (Jaden Ladega) in the crowd, and with her stress levels already high ended up freaking out.

Secrets: However, when Rocky later demanded the truth from Reiss, Sonia walked in and overheard everything, demanding that Reiss get out of her life

Wow: Reiss stammered as he tried to explain what had happened. He said: 'I am married her name is Debbie. She is a very special women'

Elsewhere, with Lola Pearce (Danielle Harold) having been given only a few months to live, Honey and Billy Micthell (Emma Barton and Perry Fenwick) were determined to create some special memories for her, but their attempts left them frazzled.

In other scenes, Karen Taylor (Lorraine Stanley) was horrified to learn that Keanu (Danny Walters) was engaged to Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean).

Though the party at the Vic is in full swing, Keanu was hesitant about celebrating there, for fear of infuriating Nish Panesar (Navin Chowdhry), following Keanu and Ravi Gulati's (Aaron Thiara) showdown the previous week.

Desperate for ir to be over and eager to save her son, Karen turned to Suki Panesar (Balvinder Sopal) and begged her to get Nish to drop his vendetta.

EastEnders airs on BBC1 at 7.30pm.
Coronation Street viewers slammed Daisy Midgeley as she continued to catfish Ryan Connor following his acid attack on Monday.

The barmaid, played by Charlotte Jordan, has been texting Ryan (Ryan Prescott) pretending to be gorgeous influencer Crystal, in a bid to help him recover from the attack by her stalker Justin Rutherford (Andrew Still) which left him disfigured.

And the latest episode saw the poor DJ falling further in love with the fictional beauty leaving viewers fuming and branding Daisy's actions 'cruel'.

Taking to Twitter one wrote: 'Daisy is making a complete fool out of Ryan by pretending to be Crystal It's not helpful for Ryan at all.

With a second commenting: 'Daisy, STOP messing with Ryan's head! He's already in bits, bless him! It's gonna end badly!'.

Fuming: Coronation Street viewers slammed Daisy Midgeley (pictured)as she continued to catfish Ryan Connor following his acid attack on Monday

Curel: The barmaid, played by Charlotte Jordan, has been texting Ryan (Ryan Prescott, pictured) pretending to be gorgeous influencer Crystal, in a bid to help him recover following the attack by her stalker Justin Rutherford (Andrew Still) which left him disfigured

Unhappy: And the latest episode saw the poor DJ falling further in love with the fictional beauty leaving viewers fuming

Someone else said: 'Daisy is playing a dangerous game pretending to be Crystal. It's going to crush Ryan's confidence even more when he finds out ...ffs stop'.

And another implored: ' Tell him Daisy! Crystal is you'.

With someone else saying: 'Cruel of Daisy keeping on pretending to be Crystal'.

It comes after Coronation Street legends reunited for a special This Morning street party on Friday ahead of the King's Coronation.

Hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary joined cast members including Jack P Shepherd who plays David Platt and Bill Roache who plays Ken Barlow.

And Norris Cole, played by Malcolm Hebden, even came back from the dead (on the show) for the knees-up after retiring from the cobbles in 2021.

The show began with special pre-recorded titles that merged Coronation Street and This Morning and continued with a series of royal-themed activities.

As the hosts grilled stars about their experiences of meeting the firm, Jack opened up about King Charles' visit to the set when he was 12 and revealed the monarch was 'baffled' about who he was, thinking he was the son of a Corrie worker.

Cruel: Unhappy viewers branded Daisy's actions as cruel

Scathing: Taking to Twitter one wrote: 'Daisy is making a complete fool out of Ryan by pretending to be Crystal It's not helpful for Ryan at all

Jack said that he met Charles when he was still the Prince of Wales and added: 'I was 12. We met outside the Rovers Return, and I just remember he was so baffled as to what I was doing there.

'He was like, 'Who are you?' I was like, 'I'm an actor, nice to meet you.' And he was like, "But where are your parents?"

'I was like, 'My mum is about,' but he was like, 'Yes, but what do they do here? He thought I was a friend of the family or something.

'I remember my mum saying he will be the King one day, and he is.'

A few years later, Jack met Queen Consort Camilla on the cobbles, another funny meeting for the actor as she said: 'I know you, you're the naughty boy.'

Legends: Coronation Street legends reunited for a special This Morning street party on Friday ahead of the King's Coronation

Special party: Coronation Street legends reunited for a special This Morning street party ahead of the King's Coronation on Friday. (pictured L-R: Dermot, Alison, Asha (Tanisha Gorey), Craig (Colson Smith) and Billy (Daniel Brocklebank)

Reunion: Hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary joined cast members including Jack P Shephard who plays David Platt and Norris, played by Malcolm Hebden (pictured talking to Dermot) even came back from the dead

Huge crowd: A massive number of Corrie stars past and present hit the cobbles for the Coronation knees-up

Tea's up! Colson joined Jack for a cup of tea and a croissant at the Coronation party as they celebrated in style

Royally special: The show began with special pre-recorded titles that merged Coronation Street and This Morning and continued with a series of royal-themed items

Wow! Later in the show, Alison and Dermot unveiled a new waxwork of King Charles and revealed the results of a surprising poll which revealed viewers wanted one made of Alison. Pictured: Alison and Dermot with the waxwork of Charles

Alison said: 'I once said to Charles that I'd like a one to one [interview] with him, and he said 'Would I survive?'...He's great fun!'

Meanwhile, fellow Corrie legends Bill, Barbara Knox who plays Rita and Helen Worth who plays Gail Platt, also spoke about meeting royals.

Helen said of Queen Elizabeth II's visit to the set: 'It was so obvious she was enjoying herself [here at Corrie], at one point Jack was making her laugh and she loved it!'

And soap legend Bill, who has been on Corrie since the very beginning in 1960, revealed that saw the late Queen seven times.

He said: 'I did meet her seven times, and on one occasion I had five minutes on my own with her and they [royalty] love to be amused and are always very friendly and very warm.

'Charles is particularly warm and friendly The Queen set the example of the perfect monarch and he followed that and he really cares.'

The actor also shared that Camilla had once told him she watches Corrie when it is on, saying: 'I remember asking her if she ever watched the Street and she said, 'At 7.30pm on a Monday and a Wednesday, the phone is off the hook.'

Barbara spoke about getting her MBE from the Queen, revealing that she thought she was a 'wonderful lady.'

She said: 'Her Majesty was wonderful she made you feel so relaxed, I could talk to this lady.

'She had that magic! When she was here last year I said 'ma'am' as she was about to leave, and she said 'yes?', I said, 'I want to thank you for this [her MBE] I do love it, thank you very much', and instantly she said, 'Did you have a lovely day?'

Alison went on to speak to Barbara about why Corrie is so popular and she admitted: 'I think people believe us. They can love us or hate us and they become very fond of you, and we can make you laugh'

Panel: The Telegraph's Camilla Tominey joined Gyles Brandreth on the sofa with the hosts as they had a chat about the Coronation

Thirsty work! Alison and Dermot also enjoyed a cocktail making class in the Rovers Return ahead of the Coronation. (pictured L-R: Jenny (Sally-Ann Matthews), Helen McGann and Dermot and Alison)

Smiles: The hosts posed with Tanisha, who plays Dev's daughter, in the boozer as the show continued

Delighted: Alison was delighted that This Morning was broadcasting live from the cobbles as the show opened

The host added: 'And you make us cry as well so believable', while Michael who plays Kevin Webster interjected: 'You make us laugh!'

Later in the show, Alison and Dermot unveiled a new waxwork of King Charles and revealed the results of a surprising poll.

Viewers had expressed their wish to see Alison have her own waxwork in Blackpool and she said: 'Oh my god, that'd be amazing! It'd have to have a laugh wouldn't it? I can't believe it - I'm gonna be a waxwork.'

As the episode continued, there was a Coronation cocktail masterclass at the Rovers and a party food tutorial and despite some heavy rain, proceedings carried on.

Another funny moment unfolded as Josie Gibson met and hugged her secret crush in person- Michael.

Michael laughed: 'I'm a little bit shorter in real life aren't I?' and a blushing Josie replied: 'You're still a fine red wine.'

Elsewhere, Dame Maureen Lipman explained later in the show that a golden cobble plaque was set to be put on the cobbles to mark the special episode.

It reads: 'Coronation Street and This Morning celebrated the Coronation of HM King Charles III on these cobbles 5th May 2023'.

Alison and other stars posted selfies to their social media as they celebrated the Coronation together.

'Coronation Street' was initially called 'Florizel Street', but it was later named after the 1902 Coronation of Charles' great-great grandfather King Edward VII.
Irina Shayk shared an assortment of photos taken during her trip to Miami to her Instagram account on Monday morning.

The 37-year-old supermodel included a trio of shots in which she showed off her impressively sculpted figure while wearing form-revealing swimsuits.

The fashion industry figure, who opened up about motherhood during an interview with Harper's Bazaar, also posted a pair of snaps that had been taken during the recently-held Miami Grand Prix.

In her bikini shots, Shayk wore a dark green top that exposed her toned midsection, as well as a matching bottom that showcased her curvy hips.

The runway regular contrasted the tone of her swimwear with a pair of jet-black running shoes, and her lengthy brunette hair cascaded onto her shoulders and chest.

Memories: Irina Shayk shared an assortment of photos taken during her trip to Miami to her Instagram account on Monday morning

Hot stuff! The 37-year-old supermodel included a trio of shots in which she showed off her impressively sculpted figure while wearing form-revealing swimsuits

The former Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue cover model added an element of shine to her look with sparkling gold hoop earrings.

She also included two black-and-white shots of herself wearing the bikini, one of which was taken with a backdrop of the city.

Shayk shared a pair of selfies that only showed her face and highlighted the bright green shade of her eyes.

The supermodel went on to show off the outfit she wore to the Miami Grand Prix in two of her other snaps.

The fashion industry personality donned a dual-patterned dress that featured a sparkling black upper portion.

The middle and lower parts of her outfit were covered in a lime-green cheetah print that contrasted perfectly with its dark top.

Shayk also wore a pair of knee-high leather boots that added extra darkness to her look for the day.

The model accessorized with black wraparound sunglasses and hoop earrings, and her brunette hair cascaded onto her shoulders.

Capturing the moment: She also included two black-and-white shots of herself wearing the bikini, one of which was taken with a backdrop of the city

Dressed up: The supermodel went on to show off the dual-tone outfit she wore to the Miami Grand Prix in two of her other snaps

Good friends: The social media figure was also joined by Burberry's former chief creative officer, Riccardo Tisci, during the event

Three's company: In one of the snaps, the pair posed alongside fellow model Stella Maxwell, and the Hercules actress flashed a peace sign to the camera

The social media figure was also joined by Burberry's former chief creative officer, Riccardo Tisci, during the event.

Shayk previously shared several images that featuring the designer to her Instagram account on Sunday.

In one of the snaps, the pair posed alongside fellow model Stella Maxwell, and the Hercules actress flashed a peace sign to the camera.

The runway regular kept it relatively casual during the sporting event, as she wore a white t-shirt underneath a sheer black dress.
Police have released the mugshot of the woman who allegedly injected silicone into the buttocks of a Kim Kardashian lookalike who later died of cardiac arrest.

Vivian Gomez, from Florida, who does not have a licence to practise medicine, travelled to a hotel in Burlingame, California, where she is believed to have given Christina Ashten Gourkani 'several injections' of silicone on April 19, according to San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe.

Ms Gourkani, a 34-year-old OnlyFans model who went by Ashten G online, soon began having health issues and died in hospital. Her family said she suffered a cardiac arrest, but other reports state she had a heart attack.

Ms Gomez was arrested on April 20 at Florida's Fort Lauderdale Airport, and she will be extradited to Redwood City in San Francisco, reports The Daily Post.

She faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and practising medicine without a licence resulting in great bodily injury.

Police have released the mugshot of Vivian Gomez, the Florida woman who allegedly injected silicone into the buttocks of a Kim Kardashian lookalike who later died of cardiac arrest

The coroner's office is still investigating Ms Gourkani's death, Wagstaffe said.

Last month, Ms Gourkani's heartbroken family started a GoFundMe page to raise funds for her funeral.

The page included a lengthy statement expressing their shock and anguish, as well as a brief account of the moments leading up to the model's death.

'It is with deep sorrow and an immensely heavy, broken heart that we have to share the most shattering, unfortunate and unexpected passing of our beautiful, beloved daughter and sister Christina Ashten Gourkani,' her family wrote.

The statement went on to describe the harrowing moment someone called Christina's family at 4.30am screaming, 'Ashten is dying, Ashten is dying!'

The family spokesperson then described the 'living nightmare' of watching her health decline.

Vivian Gomez, a Florida woman who does not have a licence to practise medicine, travelled to a hotel in Burlingame, California, where she is believed to have given Christina Ashten Gourkani (pictured) 'several injections' of silicone on April 19

The 34-year-old American model, who went by Ashten G online, soon began having health issues and died in hospital

Fellow OnlyFans model Mary Magdalene paid tribute to Ms Gourkani on Instagram.

Ms Magdalene, a fellow plastic surgery addict who once almost died trying to get the 'world's fattest vagina', wrote: 'I don't know her, [but] I would always just randomly see her on Instagram and think she was really pretty but that is so sad she just died from plastic surgery.'

'It is so scary because you really just never know when you're going to die from [risky surgery],' she added, before expressing her own fears about 'sustaining brain damage' whenever she goes under the knife.
I'm A Celebrity... South Africa viewers were left fuming after Georgia Toffolo and Andy Whyment were not brought back to camp following Janice Dickinson's departure.

During Monday night's episode, viewers saw former Made In Chelsea star Georgia, 28, and Coronation Street actor Andy, 42, sent home after losing out in the head-to-head battle with Myleene Klass and Jordan Banjo.

Elsewhere in the instalment of the ITV reality show, it was announced supermodel Janice, 68, had left the camp after sustaining a nasty injury when she fell as she got up in the middle of the night to go to the loo.

And fans of the series were left unimpressed with the decision not to bring back Georgia or Andy after Janice's exit which occurred while the programme was being pre-recorded in September last year.

Taking to Twitter, many insisted one of the pair should have returned, while others questioned whether Janice chose to leave for other reasons after her fall was not shown on television.

Unimpressed: I'm A Celebrity... South Africa viewers were left fuming after Georgia Toffolo and Andy Whyment were not brought back to camp following Janice Dickinson's departure

End of the road: During Monday night's episode, viewers saw former Made In Chelsea star Georgia, 28, named as one of the stars eliminated

One person wrote: 'Since Janice went out early, Toff shouldve been brought back in.'

While someone else commented: 'One should come back to replace Janice. Toff is pure golden.'

'Feel like cause two were meant to leave because Janice is away they should have brought Toff or Andy back,' wrote another person.

Someone else posted: 'Janice should have just done the trial Toff has gone for no reason.'

While another viewer wrote: 'Gutted that @andywhyment81 and Toff went home. They had already done a Survival Trial, it wasn't fair they had to do another one! It should've been Paul and Janice that left! Andy and Toff should still be in! Gonna miss them both @imacelebrity @antanddec.'

'Should have been Janice and Paul. Andy and Toff come back,' posted someone else.

Janice Dickinson was forced to quit I'm A Celebrity ... South Africa after falling over on her way to the dunny.

She left camp to seek medical attention and it was decided she would not return.

No more: She was joined by Coronation Street actor Andy, 42, who was sent home after losing out in the head-to-head battle with Myleene Klass and Jordan Banjo

Demands: Taking to Twitter, many insisted one of the pair should have returned to the show which was filmed in September last year

During Monday's episode, former Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan was seen reading out a note to let the campmates know of Janice's departure.

However, footage of Janice's fall was not shown, leading some fans of the show to take to social media to question if Janice had actually left simply because she did not want to continue with the show.

One person tweeted: 'Hummm could this have been intentional??! She did not look like she was loving it!', while someone else exclaimed: 'Fall my foot!'

Someone else wrote: 'She probably did it on purpose,' while another person posted: 'She couldn't be bothered anymore is the truth of it.'

'She didn't fall, just an excuse to leave,' wrote someone else.

Someone else remarked: '"Fall" yeah okay. Because we ARE that stupid to believe that.'

MailOnline has contacted ITV for comment.

Janice Dickinson was forced to quit 'I'm A Celebrity ... South Africa' after falling over on her way to the dunny.

News: During Monday's episode, former Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan (pictured) was seen reading out a note to let the campmates know of Janice's departure

Surprised: While Janice's fellow campmates were sad to hear of her departure, footage of Janice's fall was not shown (Carol Vorderman pictured as the news was delivered)

The former model has since opened up about the 'freak accident' in the middle of the night which forced her off the ITV reality show - which was recorded last year - revealing she tripped over in the dark and landed face-first.

She was stretchered off and taken by ambulance to hospital to treat her injuries and she wasn't allowed to return to camp.

Janice told The Sun newspaper's TV Mag: 'In the middle of one night I woke up because I had to go to the dunny [toilet] ... The campfire had gone out and it was as dark as it could be. So I thought: "Right, Ill make it to the dunny from memory."

'I walked a couple of steps and tripped, flying flat on my face  hair all over my forehead, my nose was bloody and my whole chin was gashed open. Blood was gushing from all these areas, and there was dirt and stones embedded in my face from the fall.'

She was rescued by campmates Fatima Whitbread and Phil Tufnell who got her back to the main camp and called for a medic.

Janice went on: '[The doctor] said: "Oh my! We have to take her to the medical hut" so they could wash away the blood, stones and dirt in case infection set in.

Truth? The absence of Janice's accident on the programme led some fans of the show to question if Janice had actually left simply because she did not want to continue with the show

'They gave me pain relief, put me on a stretcher and four men galloped me out along the road in the middle of the night in the cold air, two feet above the ground.

'We reached an ambulance and the paramedics put a compress on my forehead and my chin. It was bad. I was in this tiny hospital in the middle of nowhere and they called my husband [Robert Gerner], who was in South Africa, to bring him to the hospital.'

At the hospital, the doctors cleaned up her cuts and scrapes and gave her more painkillers.

However, Janice was unable to rejoin the rest of her campmates and her time in the show came to an end.

Georgia and Andy were eliminated from I'm A Celebrity... South Africa during Monday night's episode.

The Corrie star, 42, and the former Made in Chelsea cast member, 28, from the green pride lost out to yellow pride's Jordan Banjo and Myleene Klass.

Mishap: Janice has opened up about the 'freak accident' which forced her off the reality show - which was recorded last year - revealing she tripped over in the dark and landed face-first

The group went head-to-head in the gold mine trial, with the winners earning a luxury picnic, while the losing pair were sent home.

As she left Toff said: 'It's been glorious! It has just been amazing. Doing it twice has been really immense.'

Andy added: 'Thanks for having me back!', before the pair boarded their boats back to civilisation.'

I'm A Celebrity... South Africa continues on ITV1 and ITVX at 9pm on Tuesday.
Making Yellowstone is no cheap endeavor.

A new report from the Wall Street Journal sheds light on creator Taylor Sheridan's allegedly high expenses to create the wildly popular series.

Sheridan allegedly charges Paramount as high as $50,000 a week to film Yellowstone on his own ranch in Texas, nearly $210K to train actors at a 'Cowboy Camp' held on his own property, and rents herds of cattle out for $25 a head.

All this is in addition to the money he already makes as the writer, producer, and sometimes director of Yellowstone and its spin-offs.

The report comes amid news Yellowstone is coming to an end after five seasons, and as show star Kevin Costner begins divorce proceedings with estranged wife Christine Baumgartner.

The epic final instalment of Yellowstone returns this November, only on Stan.

High cost: Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan allegedly charges Paramount $50,000 a week to film the Western show on his ranch and rents cattle to production at $25 a head, according to a new report shedding light on Sheridan's over-the-top show expenses; pictured 2021

The report outlined the high expenses Sheridan has charged his production partners to create the series. He works with Paramount, which funds his series, and 101 Studios, the organization which creates his shows.

Sheridan declined a request by WSJ to be interviewed for the story.

At the 'Cowboy Camps', actors are taught how to work with horses and realistically depict ranch life. WSJ reported Paramount was charged $214,979.61 for the camp leading into season five, which lasted around a week.

About $33,000 of that was just for catering. Use of his horses was also costly - Paramount was charged $2,000 a head.

In another example cited by WSJ, a wrangler thousands of miles away from set also charged production $3,000. The wrangler explained to the skeptical production office that she was working on one of Sheridan's ranches and getting his horses ready for filming.

Sheridan also uses his preferred farrier to work with the horses.

In May 2022, two of Sheridan's farriers were flown in from Texas to Montana, in another expense which annoyed the studio head.

'Are you kidding me? We can't find a local person?' David Glasser, head of 101 Studios, said in an email to production staffers.

In addition, 24 horse saddles ordered by the prop master cost a jaw-dropping $23,519.19. The saddles were to be done in the style of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

'We have had 5 seasons of a show. And we are just ordering saddles now?' Glasser asked in one email of the expenses.

Not cheap: Yellowstone, which is now ending after five seasons, is one of Paramount's biggest hits - but also a hugely expensive undertaking, allegedly because of Sheridan's very particular expenses, according to the Wall Street Journal

Another point of contention was the creation of $3,130 worth of prop jewelry being made out of state, despite them being able to apply for tax breaks by using in-state vendors.

The high costs also extend to Sheridan's other popular Yellowstone spin-offs. According to WSJ, it costs at least $22 million to make a single episode of 1923, the Yellowstone prequel.

While both Paramount and 101 Studios both conceded his shows are not cheap to make, they are content with their working relationship.

'Taylor's shows are among our most successful and profitable,' a spokeswoman for Paramount told WSJ.

As for 101 Studios, executives told WSJ they try to compromise with Sheridan when it comes to budgeting and creating a quality show. While they claimed they were cost-conscious, 101 Studios say the success of Sheridan's shows prove they are worth the high price tag.

End of an era: Last week, Paramount Network announced that Yellowstone would officially end with the final episodes of the fifth season launching in November

According to WSJ, it costs over $500 million a year for Paramount to create Sheridan's programs. That figure also includes the first season of the Yellowstone spin-off 1923, which cost nearly $200 million.

In contrast, an episode of HBO's The Last of Us costs $16-$18 million an episode while House of the Dragon usually costs under $20 million an episode, according to WSJ sources.

The high costs come as investors scrutinize Paramount. On Thursday, they reported a first quarter loss of $1.1 billion. The loss is due in part to more money being spent on streaming content.

Last week, Paramount Network announced that Yellowstone would officially end with the final episodes of the fifth season launching in November.

Frosty: Sheridan has also allegedly had a tense relationship with Yellowstone star Kevin Costner; pictured with Kelly Reilly and Costner

The show has been a monster hit for the network, and tells the story of the Dutton family, and their battles over their gigantic Montana ranch.

It is still a ratings smash, but the atmosphere on set is said to have become fraught over Costner's alleged insistence on only working part of the week. Costner has also allegedly had a tense relationship with Sheridan.

Despite the cancellation, fans of Yellowstone will likely be soothed by news that a sequel has already been given a full-series order.

Matthew McConaughey has been tipped as its possible star, although producers have yet to confirm any members of its new cast.
Chloe Ferry showcased her surgically enhanced curves on Sunday as she attended a jungle themed party to celebrate pal Nathan Henry's I'm A Celeb Australia appearance.

The reality star, 27, looked incredible in a plunging khaki green top, teamed with beige skin-tight leggings.

She completed her look with a pair of stylish cowboy boots and a straw hat as she arrived with Nathan.

Geordie Shore star Nathan, 32, was dressed in the iconic red and beige I'm A Celeb outfit from the show.

Sophie Kasaei and her boyfriend Jordan Brook arrived hand-in-hand to their pal's party.

Party time: Chloe Ferry showcased her surgically enhanced curves on Sunday as she attended a jungle themed party to celebrate pal Nathan Henry's I'm A Celeb Australia appearance

Stunning: The reality star, 27, looked incredible in a plunging khaki green top, teamed with beige skin-tight leggings

Nathan arrived blindfolded and was shocked when he saw all of his friends and family dressed in jungle gear.

He announced he will be starring on I'm A Celebrity Australia right before he made his debut on the screen on Sunday.

The star shared an emotional clip on his Instagram stories as he announced the news before he headed to the jungle.

In the video, shirtless Nathan said: 'Good morning everyone, if you are seeing this then the news has obviously broke that I am going into the jungle to do I'm A Celebrity Australia . I think that is the car outside waiting to pick me up.

'I am so excited, I am so nervous, this is the biggest secret I have ever kept and youse know I have got a very big mouth.

'I hope I do the UK proud and I hope everyone votes for me to win. I am getting a bit emotional, what the f***. '

He penned the post: 'THIS IS IT NATHAN IS IN THE JUNGLE! Nathan has joined the cast of will be running his account whilst he is in there here is a little message before he left!'

Another post showed an official poster of Nathan for I'm A Celebrity Australia as it was captioned: 'Our client @nathanhgshore is in the jungle! He has joined the cast of @imacelebrityau. Good luck Nathan go and smash it!'

An insider told The Sun recently: 'I'm A Celebrity is a huge opportunity for Nathan and he really wants to do the show.

'It's really a dream come true for him. It's also perfect timing now Geordie Shore is winding down.'

Beauty: She completed her look with a pair of stylish cowboy boots and a straw hat as she arrived with Nathan

Gorgeous: Chloe opted for a flawless bronzed makeup palette which accentuated her natural features

Looking good: Geordie Shore star Nathan, 32, was dressed in the iconic red and beige I'm A Celeb outfit from the show

Happy: Nathan arrived blindfolded and was shocked when he saw all of his friends and family dressed in jungle gear

Despite Nathan's successful debut, with several celebrity pals wishing him the best of luck - I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia has left viewers unimpressed after the cast was unveiled on Sunday night .

Among the stars battling it out in the jungle are veteran presenter Kerri-Anne Kennerley, Australian Idol judge Ian 'Dicko' Dickson, MAFS star Domenica Calarco and actress Debra Lawrance.

But the line up left many scratching their heads, with some viewers baffled by who any of the cast were.

'Who are these people??' questioned one confused person on Twitter while another said, 'Yeah I have no idea who you are'.

'Im sorry but I have no idea who these people are. Except Dicko. Who was predictable because Kyle got to be back on Idol,' said one more.

'Gotta love how all these 'famous' people have to explain who they are to each other,' someone else said.

'Dear @Channel10AU Why didn't you get some real celebrities. I don't know who these people are,' yet another tweeted.

'I have to be honest, they may as well chuck a bunch of unknown randoms in the jungle instead cause who tf are most of these people,' someone wrote.

There was some confusion among the celebrities themselves when they met Debra Lawrance, who is best known for her role as Pippa Ross on Home and Away.

Loved-up: Sophie Kasaei and her boyfriend Jordan Brook arrived hand-in-hand to their pal's party

Happy: The Geordie Shore stars posed for a stunning snap together

Support: The star shared an emotional clip on his Instagram stories as he announced the news before he headed to the jungle

New role: Nathan announced he will be starring on I'm A Celebrity Australia right before he made his debut on the screen on Sunday

'How do none of these people know who Debra Lawrance is when she's just about the only person I actually do know?!?!?' someone wrote.

'HOW do these people (especially Dicko) not know who Debra Lawrence is?????' another asked.

Also appearing on the 2023 season are radio host Woody Whitelaw, television host Bianca Hunt and celebrity chef Anna Polyviou.

Nathan Henry, best known for appearing on UK reality series Geordie Shore, has likewise joined the new Australian season.
But the TV chef's moves comes after a string of disastrous business ventures

After a string of calamitous business ventures and a cooking show axed after just one series, 'Naked Chef' Jamie Oliver is attempting a comeback - by opening another restaurant chain.

The 47-year-old announced he will be launching a new eatery firm four years after the spectacular collapse of his Jamie's Italian business  which owed 83million to creditors.

Oliver claimed to have been badly advised over the ill-fated casual dining group which grew to 63 outlets before going bust with the loss of 1,000 jobs.

Despite suffering a personal loss of 25million from the collapse, the chef has revealed he would open a new restaurant later this year at London's Theatre Royal. If successful, more will follow.

But the move comes just days after TV bosses at Channel 4 announced they would be axing Great Cookbook Challenge with Jamie Oliver after just one series - and follows the collapse of his artisan food range a decade ago.

The 47-year-old claimed to have been badly advised over the ill-fated casual dining group which grew to 63 outlets before going bust with the loss of 1,000 jobs

Speaking last week, Oliver was hopeful his new venture would not turn out like his previous ill-fated ones.

Oliver said: '[The new restaurant] is about going back to my culinary roots inspired by the dishes I grew up cooking in my mum and dad's pub restaurant.

'It's about celebrating Britain's rich and diverse food scene in what I hope will be an iconic, trusted restaurant in a very special place.'

The new Jamie Oliver restaurant  which is yet to be named  is expected be more upmarket than Jamie's Italian.

The launch is the first part of a planned expansion being masterminded by Kevin Styles, the former Vue cinema boss hired last year as Oliver's new chief executive.

News of the business follows reports that Channel 4 will be shelving the Great Cookbook Challenge after its debut run ended in March. The show saw 18 cooks compete to win a book publishing deal and release their very own cookbooks, by creating dishes in the hope of impressing a panel of judges.

Each chef would pitch their book ideas and various recipes that would appear inside it, with the contestants slowly whittled down to the final three.

According to The Sun, Channel 4 have decided not to renew the show for a second series, with a source saying: 'Bosses have decided to leave Great Cookbook Challenge at one series.

The Great Cookbook Challenge was shelved after its debut run ended

The show saw 18 cooks compete to win a book publishing deal and release their very own cookbooks, by creating dishes in the hope of impressing a panel of judges

'They're proud of the show and will be continuing to work with Jamie on other shows currently in the pipeline.'

It's the latest humiliating blow for the millionaire celebrity chef, who has lost vast amounts of his fortune with pursuing his various businesses.

The chef's last firm to collapse was Jamie's Italian, which went bust in May 2019 after profits plunged and customers stayed away.

The Italian chain went through a painful restructuring when it offloaded its unprofitable sites, in a bid to stay afloat.

Almost 1,000 jobs were lost with 22 of the celebrity chef's 25 outlets closing, in a move Oliver described as the 'hardest thing I've ever had to do'.

The spectacular downfall of the 47-year-old father-of-five's business empire came amid a downturn in the casual dining sector, with other companies including Byron, Gaucho, and Gourmet Burger Kitchen having struggled pre-pandemic.

Speaking at the end of last year, Oliver insisted it had just been a 'minor blip', saying: 'It happens, and I would call it a minor blip really, in the vision and the dream. A very painful one. But definitely, I'm better for it.

Oliver insisted he is ready to start again following the crushing collapse of his Jamie's Italian restaurant chain in 2019

Jamie Oliver at his Barbecoa restaurant, a classic steakhouse reimagined in the heart of Piccadilly on February 8, 2017 in London

Jamie Oliver's Barbecoa steak restaurant in Piccadilly (pictured) had closed by March 2018

'We had 13 amazing years and learned loads. I was a young man when I started, I'm much older and wiser now.'

Asked whether or not he had learned from the closure of his Italian restaurant chain, the TV personality said: 'Yeah, for sure, and every other failure that I've had - which is about 50 per cent. But I've never been more rounded, I've never been more experienced.'

As well as launching his new restaurant, Oliver also hopes to cook up a storm with another venture, Pasta Dreams, which he announced last year. Starting with two pop-up spaces - in London's Soho and Paris - he aims to roll the service out across London and other UK cities at a rate of two sites a month. And the chef added he has hopes of reviving his collection of restaurants, too.

After a string of calamitous business ventures and a cooking show axed after just one series, 'Naked Chef' Jamie Oliver is attempting a comeback - by opening another restaurant chain

The new Jamie Oliver restaurant  which is yet to be named  is expected be more upmarket than Jamie's Italian

'We're really well positioned to go again, and we will go again, and I will go back to restaurants again, as soon as I can,' he said.

'It's in my blood, it's really all I know. It was never a size problem, it was rent and rates that got us really, and high street decline.'

In 2012, Oliver pulled the plug on his signature range of artisan food amid multi-million pound losses and bitter criticism from his suppliers.

The celebrity chef had launched his 'Jme' food range just two years earlier amid great fanfare.

The collection of sauces, biscuits and jams were said to be a ground-breaking collaboration between the TV cook and a hand-picked group of independent, small-scale food producers in Britain and Italy.

In 2012, Oliver pulled the plug on his signature range of artisan food amid multi-million pound losses and bitter criticism from his suppliers. Jme made losses of 3.8 million in 2012, double its deficit of 1.9 million the year before. Pictured is some of the range

One producer claimed he is still owed money by Jme and said his final dealings with the business had left a 'sour taste' in his mouth

But despite being stocked in more than 150 retailers, poor sales left Jme owing parent group Jamie Oliver Ltd 14 million.

Jme made losses of 3.8 million in 2012, double its deficit of 1.9 million the year before. The range was discontinued by the end of the year.

Suppliers and wholesalers confirmed they were sent an email informing them the line was ending, leading some producers to attack Jme's 'commercial ineptitude' and 'poor branding'.

One producer claimed he is still owed money by Jme and said his final dealings with the business had left a 'sour taste' in his mouth.

'We had a lot of difficulties with them,' said Gary Reid, of shortbread bakers Reids of Caithness.

'I'm not going to be harsh on Jamie Oliver because the failure is down to his team.

'To be honest, I'm not surprised the range has been cut. It turned out to be a really poor business. Many of their buyers ignored top-quality importers who wanted to take our products on abroad.
South Africa: Condolences for Msikaba Bridge construction worker

This story has been published on: 2023-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Tina Joemat-Pettersson, has expressed dismay at the unintended public release of personal information of eight Krugersdorp rape victims. The eight victims were gang raped in July 2022, while they were on set shooting a music video near a mine dump. Joemat-Pettersson said the relea... See more
Chinese proficiency contest for college students held in Cambodia

Xinhua) 15:31, May 08, 2023

PHNOM PENH, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Confucius Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia on Sunday organized the 22nd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competition for Cambodian college students.

A total of 10 Cambodian finalists, shortlisted out of 52 candidates from various universities and institutes in the Southeast Asian country, were contested in the final stage held at the Royal Academy of Cambodia in Phnom Penh.

Among the challenges set for the participants were a quiz, delivering keynote speeches and a talent show with each participant presenting performances related to Chinese culture including songs, music, dancing, drawing and martial arts, among others.

As a result, the top winner was Lavpeng Leangmeyneang, a female student from the Confucius Institute at Cambodia University of Technology and Science.

Chang Jian, minister counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Cambodia, said it was the first face-to-face competition since the COVID-19 pandemic had been successfully controlled in Cambodia.

"I hope all the students here will cherish the time, seize the opportunity, study Chinese hard, and become the future builders of Cambodia and the foundation of friendship between China and Cambodia," he said.

Taing Mengchhong, Cambodian director of the Confucius Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the competition has become an important platform for young students around the world to learn Chinese language and culture.

"It has also become a key event for international cultural exchanges, and a bridge of friendship and cooperation among college students," he said.

"Participating in the 'Chinese Bridge' competition will not only help you improve your Chinese proficiency, but also give you all an opportunity to forge international friendship and enhance mutual understanding," he added.

The director expressed his confidence that the competitors will become goodwill envoys of China-Cambodia friendship in the future.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Boxed (NYSE:BOXDQ  Get Rating) is one of 35 public companies in the Catalog & mail  order houses industry, but how does it weigh in compared to its competitors? We will compare Boxed to related companies based on the strength of its valuation, institutional ownership, risk, analyst recommendations, profitability, earnings and dividends.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Boxed and its competitors, as reported by MarketBeat.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Boxed 0 0 0 0 N/A Boxed Competitors 108 619 921 26 2.52

As a group, Catalog & mail  order houses companies have a potential upside of 70.18%. Given Boxeds competitors higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Boxed has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors.

Valuation & Earnings

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Boxed $177.27 million -$69.22 million 0.00 Boxed Competitors $3.27 billion -$69.09 million -15.08

This table compares Boxed and its competitors revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Boxeds competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Boxed. Boxed is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

35.5% of Boxed shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 43.9% of shares of all Catalog & mail  order houses companies are held by institutional investors. 10.0% of Boxed shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 32.5% of shares of all Catalog & mail  order houses companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Risk & Volatility

Boxed has a beta of 2.37, suggesting that its stock price is 137% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Boxeds competitors have a beta of 1.03, suggesting that their average stock price is 3% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Boxed and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Boxed -75.33% N/A -71.75% Boxed Competitors -14.49% -30.99% -9.83%

Summary

Boxed competitors beat Boxed on 7 of the 10 factors compared.

Boxed Company Profile

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Boxed Inc is an e-commerce retailer and an e-commerce enabler. It operates an e-commerce retail service which provides bulk pantry consumables to businesses and household customers. Boxed Inc., formerly known as Seven Oaks Acquisition Corp., is based in NEW YORK.

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Gates Industrial (NYSE:GTES  Get Rating) updated its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $1.13-$1.23 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $1.18. The company issued revenue guidance of $3.78 billion-$3.93 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $3.63 billion. Gates Industrial also updated its FY23 guidance to $1.13-1.23 EPS.

Gates Industrial Trading Up 2.4 %

GTES stock traded up $0.33 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $14.09. 643,558 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 509,177. The company has a current ratio of 3.03, a quick ratio of 2.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73. Gates Industrial has a 52-week low of $9.40 and a 52-week high of $14.93. The company has a market cap of $3.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.54 and a beta of 1.53. The stocks fifty day moving average is $13.49 and its 200-day moving average is $12.54.

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Gates Industrial (NYSE:GTES  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The company reported $0.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.19 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $893.30 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $863.96 million. Gates Industrial had a net margin of 6.08% and a return on equity of 9.01%. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Gates Industrial will post 1.01 earnings per share for the current year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Institutional Trading of Gates Industrial

Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Robert W. Baird raised their price objective on shares of Gates Industrial from $18.00 to $19.00 in a research report on Friday. TheStreet raised Gates Industrial from a c rating to a b rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on Gates Industrial from $11.00 to $14.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. Barclays lifted their price objective on Gates Industrial from $13.00 to $15.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price target on Gates Industrial from $12.00 to $14.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $15.11.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Gates Industrial during the 4th quarter worth approximately $12,417,000. AQR Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in Gates Industrial by 38.5% during the 4th quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,647,298 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,941,000 after purchasing an additional 735,282 shares during the last quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. lifted its holdings in Gates Industrial by 197.8% during the 2nd quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 1,041,802 shares of the companys stock valued at $11,314,000 after purchasing an additional 691,957 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in Gates Industrial by 32.5% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,759,090 shares of the companys stock valued at $41,552,000 after purchasing an additional 677,379 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP bought a new position in Gates Industrial during the 4th quarter worth $4,548,000.

About Gates Industrial

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Gates Industrial Corporation PLC designs and manufactures power transmission equipment. Its products serves harsh and hazardous industries such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing and energy, to everyday consumer applications such as printers, power washers, automatic doors and vacuum cleaners and virtually every form of transportation.

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Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $11.21-11.29 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $11.21. The company issued revenue guidance of $9.725-9.775 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $9.71 billion. Motorola Solutions also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $11.21-$11.29 EPS.

Motorola Solutions Stock Performance

MSI traded down $8.85 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $281.56. 1,501,288 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 631,246. The company has a quick ratio of 0.92, a current ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 45.90. The firm has a market capitalization of $47.09 billion, a PE ratio of 35.20, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.20 and a beta of 0.93. The companys 50-day moving average is $278.36 and its 200 day moving average is $265.40. Motorola Solutions has a 52 week low of $195.18 and a 52 week high of $295.10.

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Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The communications equipment provider reported $2.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.05 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $2.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.12 billion. Motorola Solutions had a net margin of 14.63% and a negative return on equity of 744.78%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.53 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Motorola Solutions will post 10.08 EPS for the current year.

Motorola Solutions Announces Dividend

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were paid a $0.88 dividend. This represents a $3.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.25%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 44.00%.

A number of equities analysts recently commented on MSI shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Motorola Solutions from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their target price for the stock from $300.00 to $305.00 in a report on Thursday, March 16th. Credit Suisse Group cut Motorola Solutions from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and cut their target price for the stock from $300.00 to $270.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 11th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Motorola Solutions in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Barclays lifted their price objective on shares of Motorola Solutions from $303.00 to $329.00 in a research report on Friday. Finally, Edward Jones lowered shares of Motorola Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Motorola Solutions presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $301.67.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Motorola Solutions news, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 26,933 shares of Motorola Solutions stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.25, for a total value of $7,305,576.25. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 48,142 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,058,517.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, SVP Cynthia Yazdi sold 8,734 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.37, for a total transaction of $2,361,411.58. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 2,873 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $776,773.01. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 26,933 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $271.25, for a total value of $7,305,576.25. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 48,142 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,058,517.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 37,167 shares of company stock valued at $10,066,483 in the last quarter. 1.50% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Motorola Solutions

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Motorola Solutions during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $470,994,000. Morgan Stanley increased its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 19.8% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 1,443,617 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $372,035,000 after purchasing an additional 238,894 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 19.7% during the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,057,572 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $221,668,000 after purchasing an additional 174,331 shares during the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp increased its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 2.7% during the 4th quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 1,040,064 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $268,035,000 after purchasing an additional 27,831 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 816,329 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $197,715,000 after purchasing an additional 20,559 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 83.67% of the companys stock.

About Motorola Solutions

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Motorola Solutions, Inc engages in the provision of communication infrastructure, devices, accessories, software, and services. It operates through the following segments: Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices, and the implementation and integration of such systems, devices, and applications.

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OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $1.93-$2.07 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $2.01. The company issued revenue guidance of -. OGE Energy also updated its FY23 guidance to $1.93-2.07 EPS.

OGE Energy Stock Up 1.1 %

OGE traded up $0.42 on Friday, hitting $37.75. 1,029,685 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,039,257. OGE Energy has a 12 month low of $33.28 and a 12 month high of $42.91. The company has a market cap of $7.56 billion, a PE ratio of 17.89, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.58 and a current ratio of 0.74. The stocks fifty day moving average is $36.78 and its 200-day moving average is $38.05.

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OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Rating) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $0.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.15 by $0.04. OGE Energy had a return on equity of 9.71% and a net margin of 12.70%. The business had revenue of $544.60 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $556.82 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.39 earnings per share. OGE Energys revenue was down 7.6% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that OGE Energy will post 2.01 EPS for the current fiscal year.

OGE Energy Increases Dividend

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 28th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 10th were given a dividend of $0.4141 per share. This represents a $1.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.39%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 6th. This is an increase from OGE Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. OGE Energys payout ratio is 78.67%.

Several research firms have recently commented on OGE. Guggenheim downgraded OGE Energy from a buy rating to a neutral rating and upped their target price for the company from $39.00 to $40.00 in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. Bank of America downgraded OGE Energy from a buy rating to a neutral rating and decreased their target price for the company from $41.00 to $39.00 in a research report on Friday, February 24th. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH began coverage on OGE Energy in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. They issued a neutral rating and a $37.00 target price on the stock. TheStreet downgraded OGE Energy from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Monday, March 27th. Finally, Mizuho reduced their price target on OGE Energy from $40.00 to $36.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, March 23rd. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, According to MarketBeat, OGE Energy currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $38.75.

Insider Activity at OGE Energy

In related news, Director David E. Rainbolt acquired 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $36.65 per share, for a total transaction of $183,250.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 15,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $549,750. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In related news, Director David E. Rainbolt acquired 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $36.65 per share, for a total transaction of $183,250.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 15,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $549,750. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, Director David L. Hauser purchased 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $35.09 per share, with a total value of $35,090.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 3,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $105,270. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders purchased 6,100 shares of company stock worth $221,925 over the last three months. Company insiders own 12.90% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of OGE Energy

A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of OGE. United Capital Financial Advisers LLC grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 2.4% in the 4th quarter. United Capital Financial Advisers LLC now owns 13,004 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $514,000 after buying an additional 305 shares during the period. First Republic Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 0.8% in the 1st quarter. First Republic Investment Management Inc. now owns 43,660 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,780,000 after buying an additional 358 shares during the period. Captrust Financial Advisors grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 1.5% in the 4th quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 25,863 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,023,000 after buying an additional 373 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 2.6% in the 4th quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 16,661 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $659,000 after buying an additional 422 shares during the period. Finally, TIAA FSB lifted its position in OGE Energy by 3.3% in the 4th quarter. TIAA FSB now owns 13,812 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $546,000 after acquiring an additional 441 shares in the last quarter. 67.78% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About OGE Energy

(Get Rating)

OGE Energy Corp. is a holding company with investments in energy and energy service providers, offering physical delivery and related services for electricity in Oklahoma and western Arkansas and natural gas, crude oil and NGLs across the U.S. OGE Energy conducts these activities through two business segments: Electric Utility and Natural Gas Midstream Operations.

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Stevanato Group (NYSE:STVN  Get Rating) updated its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided EPS guidance of $0.62-$0.67 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $0.67. The company issued revenue guidance of $1.16 billion-$1.20 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $1.22 billion. Stevanato Group also updated its FY23 guidance to 0.58-0.62 EPS.

Stevanato Group Stock Performance

NYSE:STVN remained flat at 26.85 ($29.51) during mid-day trading on Friday. The companys stock had a trading volume of 152,100 shares, compared to its average volume of 270,820. Stevanato Group has a fifty-two week low of 13.35 ($14.67) and a fifty-two week high of 29.23 ($32.12). The firms 50-day simple moving average is 25.03 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is 20.40. The company has a current ratio of 1.83, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.94 billion, a PE ratio of 47.11, a P/E/G ratio of 3.94 and a beta of 0.74.

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Stevanato Group (NYSE:STVN  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The company reported 0.19 ($0.21) earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of 0.16 ($0.18) by 0.03 ($0.03). Stevanato Group had a return on equity of 15.56% and a net margin of 14.17%. The business had revenue of 292.10 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of 271.89 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.15 EPS. Stevanato Groups revenue was up 25.6% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts predict that Stevanato Group will post 0.62 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Stevanato Group

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on STVN. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on Stevanato Group from $22.00 to $27.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, March 3rd. Citigroup boosted their price objective on Stevanato Group from $22.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, March 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on Stevanato Group from $27.00 to $30.00 in a research note on Friday. UBS Group boosted their price objective on Stevanato Group from $28.00 to $29.00 in a research note on Friday. Finally, KeyCorp boosted their price objective on Stevanato Group from $26.00 to $32.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, March 3rd.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Lazard Asset Management LLC grew its position in shares of Stevanato Group by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 6,366,679 shares of the companys stock worth $128,097,000 after buying an additional 210,007 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Stevanato Group by 8.8% during the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,264,708 shares of the companys stock worth $19,995,000 after buying an additional 101,955 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC grew its position in shares of Stevanato Group by 403.5% during the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 1,033,571 shares of the companys stock worth $18,573,000 after buying an additional 828,292 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP grew its position in shares of Stevanato Group by 21.2% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 992,326 shares of the companys stock worth $19,966,000 after buying an additional 173,332 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Stevanato Group during the 4th quarter worth $16,743,000. Institutional investors own 10.27% of the companys stock.

About Stevanato Group

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Stevanato Group S.p.A. engages in the design, production, and distribution of products and processes to provide integrated solutions for pharma and healthcare. Its principal products include containment solutions, drug delivery systems, medical devices, diagnostic, analytical services, visual inspection machines, assembling and packaging machines, and glass forming machines.

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Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC UT acquired a new stake in Comfort Systems USA, Inc. (NYSE:FIX  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm acquired 3,584 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $412,000.

Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. BlackRock Inc. lifted its position in Comfort Systems USA by 0.6% during the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 5,542,358 shares of the construction companys stock worth $539,438,000 after acquiring an additional 32,236 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Comfort Systems USA by 1.0% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 3,898,077 shares of the construction companys stock worth $379,399,000 after purchasing an additional 39,263 shares during the last quarter. Capital World Investors increased its position in Comfort Systems USA by 32.3% in the 1st quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 2,336,939 shares of the construction companys stock worth $208,011,000 after buying an additional 570,560 shares during the period. State Street Corp grew its stake in shares of Comfort Systems USA by 1.5% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,201,583 shares of the construction companys stock worth $116,950,000 after acquiring an additional 18,126 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its stake in Comfort Systems USA by 0.7% during the third quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 601,708 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $58,565,000 after acquiring an additional 4,236 shares during the period. 94.26% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Comfort Systems USA

In other Comfort Systems USA news, Director Vance W. Tang sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $147.00, for a total value of $367,500.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 26,297 shares in the company, valued at $3,865,659. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, Director Vance W. Tang sold 2,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $147.00, for a total transaction of $367,500.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 26,297 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,865,659. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Constance Ellen Skidmore sold 3,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $143.03, for a total value of $429,090.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 24,722 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,535,987.66. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 2.48% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Comfort Systems USA Stock Up 0.6 %

Several analysts have recently weighed in on the company. DA Davidson lifted their price objective on Comfort Systems USA from $135.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, February 24th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Comfort Systems USA in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company.

Shares of NYSE FIX opened at $152.79 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.01, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. The company has a market cap of $5.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.27 and a beta of 1.21. Comfort Systems USA, Inc. has a 12-month low of $74.14 and a 12-month high of $154.15. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $140.31 and its 200 day simple moving average is $127.34.

Comfort Systems USA (NYSE:FIX  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The construction company reported $1.51 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.07 by $0.44. Comfort Systems USA had a net margin of 4.89% and a return on equity of 21.72%. The company had revenue of $1.17 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.10 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $0.91 EPS. Comfort Systems USAs revenue was up 32.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts expect that Comfort Systems USA, Inc. will post 6.79 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Comfort Systems USA Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 29th. Investors of record on Thursday, May 18th will be issued a $0.20 dividend. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.52%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 17th. This is an increase from Comfort Systems USAs previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. Comfort Systems USAs dividend payout ratio is currently 11.65%.

Comfort Systems USA Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Comfort Systems USA, Inc engages in the provision of mechanical and electrical contracting services. It operates under the Mechanical and Electrical Services segments. The Mechanical Services segment includes heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, plumbing, piping, and controls, as well as off-site construction, monitoring, and fire protection.

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Apollo Global Management, Inc. (NYSE:APO  Get Rating) was the target of unusually large options trading activity on Monday. Stock investors purchased 10,391 put options on the stock. This is an increase of 130% compared to the typical volume of 4,527 put options.

Apollo Global Management Price Performance

Apollo Global Management stock traded up $1.05 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $61.58. 1,038,683 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,763,574. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $63.07 and a two-hundred day moving average of $64.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97, a current ratio of 0.86 and a quick ratio of 0.86. Apollo Global Management has a 12-month low of $45.62 and a 12-month high of $74.63.

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Apollo Global Management (NYSE:APO  Get Rating) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The financial services provider reported $1.29 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.43 by ($0.14). The firm had revenue of $728.60 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $704.24 million. Apollo Global Management had a negative net margin of 29.29% and a positive return on equity of 116.88%. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Apollo Global Management will post 6.16 EPS for the current year.

Apollo Global Management Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, February 28th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 21st were issued a $0.40 dividend. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.60%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, February 17th. Apollo Global Managements payout ratio is presently -28.67%.

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the stock. Oppenheimer upped their price target on shares of Apollo Global Management from $73.00 to $79.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. TheStreet upgraded shares of Apollo Global Management from a d+ rating to a c rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Barclays dropped their price target on shares of Apollo Global Management from $80.00 to $74.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 22nd. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Apollo Global Management in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a sell rating for the company. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Apollo Global Management from $74.00 to $79.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Apollo Global Management currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $73.06.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Apollo Global Management news, insider Joshua Harris sold 1,200 shares of Apollo Global Management stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $62.51, for a total value of $75,012.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 35,583,492 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,224,324,084.92. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, insider Joshua Harris sold 1,200 shares of Apollo Global Management stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $62.51, for a total value of $75,012.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 35,583,492 shares in the company, valued at $2,224,324,084.92. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Martin Kelly sold 30,000 shares of Apollo Global Management stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.44, for a total transaction of $2,113,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 414,241 shares of the companys stock, valued at $29,179,136.04. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 877,956 shares of company stock valued at $56,900,577. Insiders own 15.40% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in APO. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust grew its holdings in Apollo Global Management by 7,183.3% during the 1st quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 437 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 431 shares in the last quarter. MADDEN SECURITIES Corp bought a new position in Apollo Global Management during the 4th quarter worth about $30,000. Zions Bancorporation N.A. bought a new position in Apollo Global Management during the 1st quarter worth about $30,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in Apollo Global Management by 274.8% during the 1st quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 491 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $31,000 after acquiring an additional 360 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Close Asset Management Ltd bought a new position in Apollo Global Management during the 1st quarter worth about $32,000. 68.98% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Apollo Global Management

(Get Rating)

Apollo Global Management, Inc provides asset management services. It offers its clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade to private equity with a focus on three business strategies: yield, hybrid, and equity. The company was founded by Marc Rowan in 1990 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

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Shares of Brunswick Co. (NYSE:BC  Get Rating) have earned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the fifteen ratings firms that are currently covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $102.25.

A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on the stock. MKM Partners boosted their target price on shares of Brunswick from $91.00 to $105.00 in a report on Friday, February 3rd. KeyCorp started coverage on shares of Brunswick in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. They set an overweight rating and a $100.00 target price on the stock. Citigroup boosted their price target on shares of Brunswick from $104.00 to $106.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. DA Davidson boosted their price target on shares of Brunswick from $82.00 to $92.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of Brunswick from $95.00 to $105.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd.

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Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Ryan M. Gwillim sold 5,710 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $88.28, for a total value of $504,078.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 28,522 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,517,922.16. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other Brunswick news, CFO Ryan M. Gwillim sold 5,710 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $88.28, for a total value of $504,078.80. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 28,522 shares in the company, valued at $2,517,922.16. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, VP Christopher F. Dekker sold 7,353 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $88.29, for a total transaction of $649,196.37. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 41,455 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,660,061.95. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 13,390 shares of company stock valued at $1,181,472. Insiders own 0.58% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Brunswick

Brunswick Price Performance

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Truist Financial Corp grew its holdings in Brunswick by 86.5% in the first quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 11,575 shares of the companys stock worth $949,000 after purchasing an additional 5,370 shares during the period. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Brunswick during the first quarter valued at approximately $1,271,000. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina grew its holdings in shares of Brunswick by 0.7% during the first quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 31,584 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,590,000 after buying an additional 220 shares during the last quarter. Jump Financial LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Brunswick during the first quarter valued at approximately $242,000. Finally, Bahl & Gaynor Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Brunswick by 10.9% during the first quarter. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. now owns 92,386 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,576,000 after buying an additional 9,065 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.01% of the companys stock.

Brunswick stock opened at $82.67 on Monday. Brunswick has a 52 week low of $61.89 and a 52 week high of $93.15. The companys 50 day moving average price is $82.44 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $78.62. The company has a quick ratio of 0.81, a current ratio of 1.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.17. The stock has a market cap of $5.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.96 and a beta of 1.53.

Brunswick (NYSE:BC  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $2.57 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.36 by $0.21. The company had revenue of $1.74 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.71 billion. Brunswick had a net margin of 8.97% and a return on equity of 36.65%. Brunswicks revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.53 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Brunswick will post 10.37 earnings per share for the current year.

Brunswick Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.94%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 12th. Brunswicks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 19.28%.

Brunswick Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Brunswick Corp. engages in the design, manufacture, and marketing of recreational marine products, including marine engines, boats, and parts and accessories for those products. It operates through the following segments: Propulsion, Parts and Accessories, Boat, and Corporate/Other. The Propulsion segment manufactures a full range of outboard, sterndrive, and inboard engines, as well as propulsion-related controls, propellers, and rigging parts and accessories.

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Coca-Cola HBC (OTCMKTS:CCHGY  Get Rating) had its price objective hoisted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 2,200 ($27.49) to GBX 2,600 ($32.48) in a report published on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

A number of other equities research analysts have also recently weighed in on CCHGY. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price target on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,580 ($32.23) to GBX 2,545 ($31.80) in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Barclays upped their target price on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,500 ($31.23) to GBX 2,700 ($33.73) in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Credit Suisse Group reduced their target price on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,600 ($32.48) to GBX 2,500 ($31.23) in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Citigroup reduced their target price on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,200 ($27.49) to GBX 2,125 ($26.55) in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their target price on Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,250 ($28.11) to GBX 2,350 ($29.36) in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th.

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Coca-Cola HBC Trading Up 0.9 %

CCHGY opened at $31.84 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a current ratio of 1.24. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $27.85 and its 200 day simple moving average is $25.15. Coca-Cola HBC has a 1-year low of $18.89 and a 1-year high of $31.84.

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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Coombe Bender & Co LLC cut its holdings in shares of Olin Co. (NYSE:OLN  Get Rating) by 4.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 68,308 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock after selling 3,064 shares during the quarter. Olin makes up approximately 3.3% of Coombe Bender & Co LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 7th largest holding. Coombe Bender & Co LLCs holdings in Olin were worth $3,616,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. bought a new stake in Olin in the 1st quarter worth $26,000. Bessemer Group Inc. bought a new position in Olin in the 3rd quarter worth $27,000. Tobam bought a new stake in Olin in the 3rd quarter valued at $28,000. Wipfli Financial Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Olin in the third quarter worth $35,000. Finally, EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Olin in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Institutional investors own 85.77% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In other news, VP Damian Gumpel sold 13,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $62.65, for a total transaction of $814,450.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 17,155 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,074,760.75. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock.

Olin Stock Performance

Shares of OLN traded down $0.13 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $54.87. 362,965 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,410,762. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $55.19 and its 200-day simple moving average is $56.06. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.09 billion, a PE ratio of 7.30, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.00 and a beta of 1.44. Olin Co. has a 52-week low of $41.33 and a 52-week high of $67.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.60 and a quick ratio of 0.84.

Olin (NYSE:OLN  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 28th. The specialty chemicals company reported $1.16 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.28 by ($0.12). The firm had revenue of $1.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.05 billion. Olin had a net margin of 12.45% and a return on equity of 42.24%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 25.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $2.48 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts expect that Olin Co. will post 5.42 earnings per share for the current year.

Olin Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, May 11th will be paid a dividend of $0.20 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 10th. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.46%. Olins dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 10.62%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have recently commented on the company. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price target on Olin from $74.00 to $76.00 in a research note on Monday, May 1st. Morgan Stanley cut shares of Olin from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating and set a $50.00 price target on the stock. in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. StockNews.com cut shares of Olin from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Piper Sandler dropped their price objective on shares of Olin from $83.00 to $80.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 2nd. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on shares of Olin from $65.00 to $74.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 31st. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $67.67.

Olin Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Olin Corp. engages in manufacturing of chemicals products. It operates through the following segments: Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls, Epoxy, and Winchester. The Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls segment manufactures and sells chlorine and caustic soda, ethylene dichloride and vinyl chloride monomer, methyl chloride, methylene chloride, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene and vinylidene chloride, hydrochloric acid, hydrogen, bleach products and potassium hydroxide.

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Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. increased its position in iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IJJ  Get Rating) by 0.8% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 237,185 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,900 shares during the quarter. Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. owned approximately 0.33% of iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF worth $23,908,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Synovus Financial Corp boosted its position in shares of iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF by 8.1% in the 4th quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 6,523 shares of the companys stock worth $657,000 after purchasing an additional 487 shares in the last quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV grew its position in shares of iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF by 5.9% during the 3rd quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV now owns 84,169 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,575,000 after acquiring an additional 4,674 shares during the period. Houlihan Financial Resource Group Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at about $770,000. Tradewinds LLC. acquired a new stake in iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF in the 4th quarter worth about $1,127,000. Finally, AE Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF by 1.0% in the 4th quarter. AE Wealth Management LLC now owns 84,718 shares of the companys stock worth $8,540,000 after buying an additional 830 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF Price Performance

IJJ stock traded down $0.26 during trading on Monday, hitting $99.87. The stock had a trading volume of 30,411 shares, compared to its average volume of 509,687. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.23 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.97 and a beta of 1.17. The companys 50-day moving average price is $101.90 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $103.87. iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF has a twelve month low of $89.62 and a twelve month high of $116.78.

About iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF

iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF, formerly iShares S&P MidCap 400 Value Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the S&P MidCap 400 Value Index (the Index). The Value Index measures the performance of the mid-capitalization value sector of the United States equity market and consists of those stocks in the S&P MidCap 400 Index exhibiting the strongest value characteristics.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IJJ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF (NYSEARCA:IJJ  Get Rating).

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Ecolab (NYSE:ECL  Get Rating)s stock had its maintains rating restated by analysts at 92 Resources in a report released on Thursday, Benzinga reports.

Other equities research analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. VNET Group reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of Ecolab in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Citigroup lifted their price objective on shares of Ecolab from $164.00 to $166.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price objective on shares of Ecolab from $175.00 to $195.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Bank of America lowered shares of Ecolab from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and cut their price target for the stock from $170.00 to $162.00 in a research note on Monday, April 17th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada upgraded shares of Ecolab from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $155.00 to $185.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 15th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $178.20.

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Ecolab Trading Down 0.8 %

NYSE:ECL traded down $1.36 on Thursday, reaching $172.31. The companys stock had a trading volume of 121,982 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,126,102. The firm has a market cap of $49.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 42.62, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.76 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 1.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.02. Ecolab has a 12-month low of $131.04 and a 12-month high of $179.76. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $163.13 and a 200 day moving average price of $154.59.

Insider Transactions at Ecolab

Ecolab ( NYSE:ECL Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The basic materials company reported $0.88 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.86 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $3.57 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.47 billion. Ecolab had a net margin of 7.96% and a return on equity of 18.05%. Ecolabs revenue was up 9.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.82 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Ecolab will post 4.98 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In other news, EVP Larry L. Berger sold 4,404 shares of the businesss 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 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 document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other Ecolab news, CEO Christophe Beck sold 34,450 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $173.48, for a total value of $5,976,386.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 53,043 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,201,899.64. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, EVP Larry L. Berger sold 4,404 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on 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 sale, the executive vice president now owns 12,442 shares in the company, valued at $2,027,423.90. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.04% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Ecolab

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. United Bank raised its stake in Ecolab by 2.7% during the first quarter. United Bank now owns 4,149 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $733,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its stake in Ecolab by 7.6% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 6,172 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,090,000 after purchasing an additional 434 shares during the period. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC raised its stake in Ecolab by 23.0% during the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 1,893 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $334,000 after purchasing an additional 354 shares during the period. Brighton Jones LLC raised its stake in Ecolab by 6.7% during the first quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 1,707 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $301,000 after purchasing an additional 107 shares during the period. Finally, Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. raised its stake in Ecolab by 17.1% during the first quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. now owns 73,182 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $12,920,000 after purchasing an additional 10,676 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds 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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Fiera Capital Corp lowered its holdings in Sun Life Financial Inc. (NYSE:SLF  Get Rating) (TSE:SLF) by 2.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 756,677 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 18,780 shares during the period. Fiera Capital Corp owned approximately 0.13% of Sun Life Financial worth $35,149,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of SLF. Raymond James & Associates boosted its holdings in shares of Sun Life Financial by 2.0% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 31,331 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,749,000 after acquiring an additional 614 shares during the period. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in Sun Life Financial by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 24,648 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,376,000 after buying an additional 269 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. increased its position in shares of Sun Life Financial by 3.5% during the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 34,234 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,911,000 after buying an additional 1,144 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of Sun Life Financial by 9.4% in the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 14,075 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $786,000 after buying an additional 1,207 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in Sun Life Financial during the first quarter valued at approximately $67,000. 44.94% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Sun Life Financial Stock Up 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE SLF traded up $0.34 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $49.00. 32,622 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 500,241. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $47.24 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $47.05. The company has a market capitalization of $28.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.17, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.14 and a beta of 1.00. Sun Life Financial Inc. has a 52-week low of $37.96 and a 52-week high of $51.63.

Sun Life Financial Increases Dividend

Sun Life Financial ( NYSE:SLF Get Rating ) (TSE:SLF) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 8th. The financial services provider reported $1.25 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.16 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $9.06 billion for the quarter. Sun Life Financial had a net margin of 13.70% and a return on equity of 13.28%. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Sun Life Financial Inc. will post 4.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 1st were paid a $0.541 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, February 28th. This is an increase from Sun Life Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.53. This represents a $2.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.42%. Sun Life Financials payout ratio is currently 52.75%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Desjardins boosted their price target on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$73.00 to C$75.00 in a research report on Friday, February 10th. CIBC cut Sun Life Financial from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. They noted that the move was a valuation call. National Bank Financial raised their price target on Sun Life Financial from C$69.00 to C$71.00 in a report on Friday, February 10th. Scotiabank boosted their price objective on Sun Life Financial from C$71.00 to C$75.00 in a report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group raised their target price on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$74.00 to C$75.00 in a research note on Friday, February 10th.

Sun Life Financial Profile

(Get Rating)

Sun Life Financial, Inc engages in the provision of insurance and asset management solutions to individual and corporate clients. It operates through the following segments: Canada, United States, Asset Management, Asia, and Corporate. The Canada segment offers individual insurance and group benefits and retirement services.

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Fortis (TSE:FTS  Get Rating) had its price target upped by Scotiabank from C$58.00 to C$60.00 in a research report released on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

FTS has been the subject of a number of other research reports. CIBC lifted their price target on shares of Fortis from C$57.00 to C$59.00 in a research note on Friday, April 21st. CSFB lifted their price target on shares of Fortis from C$61.00 to C$62.00 in a research note on Wednesday, March 15th. Susquehanna Bancshares lifted their price target on shares of Fortis from C$56.00 to C$57.00 in a research note on Thursday. National Bankshares lifted their price target on shares of Fortis from C$55.00 to C$56.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, February 13th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price objective on shares of Fortis from C$53.00 to C$51.00 in a report on Monday, March 6th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have given a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Fortis currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$58.50.

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Fortis Trading Up 0.2 %

FTS opened at C$60.84 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of C$29.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.88, a P/E/G ratio of 3.10 and a beta of 0.16. The firms 50 day moving average is C$57.54 and its 200-day moving average is C$55.49. Fortis has a 52-week low of C$48.45 and a 52-week high of C$65.26. The company has a quick ratio of 0.36, a current ratio of 0.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 127.16.

Fortis Announces Dividend

Fortis ( TSE:FTS Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 10th. The company reported C$0.72 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of C$0.70 by C$0.02. The company had revenue of C$3.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$2.75 billion. Fortis had a net margin of 12.62% and a return on equity of 6.92%. Analysts expect that Fortis will post 2.9262174 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 1st will be issued a dividend of $0.565 per share. This represents a $2.26 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.71%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 16th. Fortiss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 81.29%.

Fortis Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Fortis Inc operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 438,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 100,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,485 megawatts (MW), including 53 MW of solar capacity and 252 MV of wind capacity.

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Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE:GBTG  Get Rating)s stock price fell 5.7% during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $5.42 and last traded at $5.42. 9,474 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 88% from the average session volume of 81,508 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.75.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently commented on GBTG. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on shares of Global Business Travel Group from $9.00 to $8.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, March 10th. Credit Suisse Group reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $9.00 target price on shares of Global Business Travel Group in a report on Friday, March 10th. Finally, Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Global Business Travel Group from $6.50 to $7.50 in a report on Sunday, March 12th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Global Business Travel Group has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $8.68.

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Global Business Travel Group Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 1.60 and a quick ratio of 1.60. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $6.49 and its 200 day simple moving average is $6.28.

Institutional Trading of Global Business Travel Group

Global Business Travel Group ( NYSE:GBTG Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 9th. The company reported ($0.13) EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.14) by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $527.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $505.15 million. Equities research analysts expect that Global Business Travel Group, Inc. will post -0.14 EPS for the current year.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of GBTG. Jump Financial LLC bought a new position in Global Business Travel Group during the 1st quarter valued at about $144,000. ETF Managers Group LLC bought a new position in Global Business Travel Group in the 4th quarter worth about $7,656,000. Parallax Volatility Advisers L.P. bought a new position in Global Business Travel Group in the 4th quarter worth about $120,000. Dendur Capital LP grew its stake in Global Business Travel Group by 42.7% in the 4th quarter. Dendur Capital LP now owns 1,734,773 shares of the companys stock worth $11,710,000 after acquiring an additional 518,900 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Global Business Travel Group by 76.9% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 176,058 shares of the companys stock worth $1,188,000 after acquiring an additional 76,542 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 15.91% of the companys stock.

About Global Business Travel Group

(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.

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IGM Financial (TSE:IGM  Get Rating) had its target price lowered by Scotiabank from C$49.00 to C$47.00 in a report published on Friday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

A number of other research firms also recently commented on IGM. National Bankshares raised their target price on IGM Financial from C$45.00 to C$48.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. Barclays raised their target price on IGM Financial from C$36.00 to C$38.00 in a report on Monday, January 23rd. TD Securities upgraded IGM Financial from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the company from C$44.00 to C$48.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price target on IGM Financial from C$50.00 to C$49.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday. Finally, BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on IGM Financial from C$45.00 to C$46.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th.

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IGM Financial Price Performance

Shares of TSE IGM opened at C$38.65 on Friday. IGM Financial has a 1-year low of C$33.45 and a 1-year high of C$43.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 36.63, a current ratio of 1.84 and a quick ratio of 0.31. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of C$40.91 and a 200 day moving average price of C$39.93. The company has a market cap of C$9.19 billion, a PE ratio of 10.89, a P/E/G ratio of 14.05 and a beta of 1.55.

IGM Financial Dividend Announcement

IGM Financial ( TSE:IGM Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The financial services provider reported C$0.94 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of C$0.87 by C$0.07. IGM Financial had a return on equity of 13.67% and a net margin of 23.01%. The company had revenue of C$848.00 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of C$815.00 million. Sell-side analysts forecast that IGM Financial will post 3.7541899 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, June 30th will be issued a $0.563 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. This represents a $2.25 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.83%. IGM Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 63.38%.

IGM Financial Company Profile

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IGM Financial Inc operates as a wealth and asset management company in Canada. It operates through Wealth Management, Asset Management, and Strategic Investments and Other segments. The company offers financial advisory services; IG Living Plan that provides financial planning services, such as investment vehicles, insurance products, mortgage and banking solutions, and charitable giving program; IG Wealth Management Advisor Portal, a customer relationship management platform; and IG Wealth Management's dealer platform, which provides increased automation and supports both MFDA and IIROC licensed advisors, as well as new products on its investment dealer platform.

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Invesco Mortgage Capital (NYSE:IVR  Get Rating) is scheduled to announce its earnings results after the market closes on Tuesday, May 9th. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of $0.86 per share for the quarter. Investors interested in listening to the companys conference call can do so using this link.

Invesco Mortgage Capital Price Performance

Invesco Mortgage Capital stock opened at $10.08 on Monday. Invesco Mortgage Capital has a twelve month low of $9.48 and a twelve month high of $18.10. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $10.89 and a 200-day moving average price of $12.35.

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Invesco Mortgage Capital Cuts Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 27th. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 10th were given a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 15.87%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 6th. Invesco Mortgage Capitals dividend payout ratio is currently -12.64%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. boosted its holdings in Invesco Mortgage Capital by 7.6% in the 4th quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 12,625 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $160,000 after buying an additional 892 shares during the period. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky lifted its stake in Invesco Mortgage Capital by 88.9% in the 4th quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 10,098 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $129,000 after purchasing an additional 4,753 shares in the last quarter. Ensign Peak Advisors Inc purchased a new stake in Invesco Mortgage Capital in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $114,000. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd lifted its stake in Invesco Mortgage Capital by 55.1% in the 1st quarter. Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd now owns 48,578 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $111,000 after purchasing an additional 17,257 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Guggenheim Capital LLC lifted its stake in Invesco Mortgage Capital by 50.9% in the 1st quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 43,389 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $99,000 after purchasing an additional 14,638 shares in the last quarter. 53.54% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on IVR shares. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Invesco Mortgage Capital in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Barclays reduced their target price on shares of Invesco Mortgage Capital from $12.00 to $11.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 13th.

About Invesco Mortgage Capital

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Invesco Mortgage Capital, Inc is a real estate investment trust. It engages in the business of investing, financing, and managing mortgage-backed securities and other mortgage-related assets. The company was founded on June 5, 2008 and is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.

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iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF (BATS:PICK  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $41.31 and last traded at $41.40, with a volume of 269588 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $41.15.

iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF Stock Up 0.6 %

The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $41.85 and a 200-day simple moving average of $42.05. The stock has a market cap of $1.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.48 and a beta of 1.18.

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Institutional Trading of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Leuthold Group LLC raised its position in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF by 37.9% during the 3rd quarter. Leuthold Group LLC now owns 16,507 shares of the companys stock worth $562,000 after purchasing an additional 4,538 shares during the period. Oversea Chinese Banking CORP Ltd bought a new position in iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF during the 4th quarter valued at $2,003,000. Family Firm Inc. boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF by 2.1% during the 4th quarter. Family Firm Inc. now owns 34,873 shares of the companys stock worth $1,430,000 after acquiring an additional 721 shares in the last quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF during the 4th quarter worth $238,000. Finally, Bard Financial Services Inc. bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF during the 4th quarter worth $212,000.

iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF (PICK) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in materials equity. The fund tracks a market-cap-weighted index of global metals mining, extraction or production firms, excluding gold and silver mining firms. PICK was launched on Jan 31, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock.

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JBF Capital Inc. acquired a new stake in Corebridge Financial, Inc. (NYSE:CRBG  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 85,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,705,000. Corebridge Financial comprises approximately 0.4% of JBF Capital Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 22nd largest position.

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC bought a new stake in shares of Corebridge Financial during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $85,000. SG Americas Securities LLC purchased a new position in Corebridge Financial during the 4th quarter worth $123,000. New York State Common Retirement Fund purchased a new position in Corebridge Financial during the 4th quarter worth $185,000. UBS Group AG purchased a new position in Corebridge Financial during the 3rd quarter worth $186,000. Finally, National Bank of Canada FI purchased a new position in Corebridge Financial during the 4th quarter worth $292,000. 22.16% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have commented on the company. Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $26.00 price objective on shares of Corebridge Financial in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Citigroup began coverage on Corebridge Financial in a report on Monday, April 10th. They issued a neutral rating on the stock. Credit Suisse Group downgraded Corebridge Financial from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and cut their price target for the company from $26.00 to $23.00 in a report on Friday, January 13th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on Corebridge Financial from $28.00 to $21.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded Corebridge Financial from a neutral rating to a buy rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $25.00 to $23.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $24.27.

Corebridge Financial Trading Up 0.7 %

Shares of CRBG stock traded up $0.11 on Monday, hitting $16.75. The company had a trading volume of 566,893 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,753,821. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $16.85 and a 200-day moving average price of $19.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.51, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a current ratio of 0.16. Corebridge Financial, Inc. has a twelve month low of $14.01 and a twelve month high of $23.50.

Corebridge Financial (NYSE:CRBG  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, February 17th. The company reported $0.88 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.71 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $5.34 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.28 billion. Sell-side analysts predict that Corebridge Financial, Inc. will post 3.71 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Corebridge Financial Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Friday, March 17th were issued a $0.23 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 16th. This represents a $0.92 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.49%.

Corebridge Financial Company Profile

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Corebridge Financial, Inc provides retirement solutions and insurance products in the United States. It operates through Individual Retirement, Group Retirement, Life Insurance, and Institutional Markets segments. The Individual Retirement segment provides fixed annuities, fixed index annuities, variable annuities and retail mutual funds.

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Birinyi Associates Inc. trimmed its position in shares of Lockheed Martin Co. (NYSE:LMT  Get Rating) by 55.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,250 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 2,828 shares during the period. Lockheed Martin comprises approximately 0.5% of Birinyi Associates Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 27th biggest holding. Birinyi Associates Inc.s holdings in Lockheed Martin were worth $1,095,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in Lockheed Martin by 1.3% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,885,865 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $8,840,580,000 after purchasing an additional 289,110 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Lockheed Martin by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 5,256,069 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $2,320,030,000 after buying an additional 264,665 shares during the period. California Public Employees Retirement System grew its holdings in shares of Lockheed Martin by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 1,148,736 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $443,745,000 after buying an additional 25,283 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its position in Lockheed Martin by 1.1% in the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 988,725 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $381,934,000 after acquiring an additional 10,587 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Two Sigma Advisers LP lifted its position in Lockheed Martin by 59.2% in the 3rd quarter. Two Sigma Advisers LP now owns 698,200 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $269,708,000 after acquiring an additional 259,700 shares in the last quarter. 75.18% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Lockheed Martin Stock Down 0.5 %

Shares of NYSE:LMT traded down $2.43 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $453.11. 317,671 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,392,342. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.61, a quick ratio of 1.10 and a current ratio of 1.30. Lockheed Martin Co. has a 52-week low of $373.67 and a 52-week high of $508.10. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $477.27 and its 200 day simple moving average is $474.82. The firm has a market cap of $114.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.82, a PEG ratio of 2.77 and a beta of 0.67.

Lockheed Martin Dividend Announcement

Lockheed Martin ( NYSE:LMT Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 18th. The aerospace company reported $6.43 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $6.08 by $0.35. The company had revenue of $15.13 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.01 billion. Lockheed Martin had a return on equity of 67.75% and a net margin of 8.60%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 1.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $6.44 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Lockheed Martin Co. will post 26.76 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 23rd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, June 1st will be issued a $3.00 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, May 31st. This represents a $12.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.65%. Lockheed Martins payout ratio is presently 54.84%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts recently commented on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein upped their price target on shares of Lockheed Martin from $478.00 to $496.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Thursday, April 20th. DZ Bank upgraded shares of Lockheed Martin from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $523.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Monday, January 30th. Robert W. Baird lowered shares of Lockheed Martin from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $513.00 price target on the stock. in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Lockheed Martin from $546.00 to $579.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Lockheed Martin from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $494.79.

Insider Transactions at Lockheed Martin

In other Lockheed Martin news, EVP Timothy S. Cahill sold 2,534 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $479.44, for a total value of $1,214,900.96. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 10,460 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,014,942.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, EVP Timothy S. Cahill sold 2,534 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $479.44, for a total transaction of $1,214,900.96. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 10,460 shares in the company, valued at $5,014,942.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Stephanie C. Hill sold 2,391 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, April 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $490.84, for a total value of $1,173,598.44. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 12,604 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,186,547.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.17% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Lockheed Martin Profile

(Get Rating)

Lockheed Martin Corp. is a global security and aerospace company, which engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of technology systems, products, and services. It operates through the following business segments: Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control (MFC), Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS), and Space.

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Marcus & Millichap (NYSE:MMI  Get Rating) released its quarterly earnings results on Friday. The real estate investment trust reported ($0.15) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.23 by ($0.38), RTT News reports. The business had revenue of $154.79 million for the quarter. Marcus & Millichap had a net margin of 8.01% and a return on equity of 14.73%. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.81 earnings per share.

Marcus & Millichap Trading Up 1.7 %

Shares of MMI opened at $31.26 on Monday. Marcus & Millichap has a twelve month low of $29.25 and a twelve month high of $44.40. The company has a market cap of $1.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.30 and a beta of 1.04. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $31.77 and its 200-day simple moving average is $34.57.

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Marcus & Millichap Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 6th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 14th were paid a $0.25 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.4%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, March 13th. Marcus & Millichaps dividend payout ratio is currently 30.86%.

Insider Activity

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other news, COO John David Parker sold 4,974 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $30.96, for a total value of $153,995.04. Following the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 5,932 shares of the companys stock, valued at $183,654.72. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . Insiders own 39.20% of the companys stock.

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in MMI. Citigroup Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Marcus & Millichap by 42.9% in the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 27,112 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,428,000 after purchasing an additional 8,141 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can grew its holdings in shares of Marcus & Millichap by 16.5% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 7,913 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $403,000 after purchasing an additional 1,120 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Marcus & Millichap by 54.3% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 13,471 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $710,000 after purchasing an additional 4,743 shares during the last quarter. Rhumbline Advisers grew its holdings in shares of Marcus & Millichap by 0.6% in the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 67,158 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $3,538,000 after purchasing an additional 413 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its holdings in shares of Marcus & Millichap by 14.1% in the first quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 21,545 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,135,000 after purchasing an additional 2,657 shares during the last quarter. 61.56% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on shares of Marcus & Millichap from $26.00 to $24.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 27th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Marcus & Millichap in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Finally, TheStreet downgraded shares of Marcus & Millichap from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Monday, April 24th.

Marcus & Millichap Company Profile

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Marcus & Millichap, Inc engages in the provision of investment real estate brokerage services. It specializes in commercial real estate investment sales, property financing, research, and advisory services. The company was founded by George M. Marcus and William A. Millichap in 1971 and is headquartered in Calabasas, CA.

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MMA Asset Management LLC increased its position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Get Rating) by 6.1% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 7,978 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 458 shares during the quarter. MMA Asset Management LLCs holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF were worth $774,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in AGG. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management lifted its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 145.5% during the first quarter. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management now owns 6,590 shares of the companys stock valued at $705,000 after acquiring an additional 3,906 shares during the period. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. lifted its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 36.2% during the first quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 52,003 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,570,000 after acquiring an additional 13,829 shares during the period. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF during the first quarter valued at $44,000. Baltimore Washington Financial Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF during the first quarter valued at $241,000. Finally, West Michigan Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 2.0% during the first quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC now owns 14,640 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,568,000 after acquiring an additional 292 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.07% of the companys stock.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Trading Down 0.4 %

Shares of AGG traded down $0.39 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $99.26. 2,532,407 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,056,483. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a 1-year low of $93.20 and a 1-year high of $104.39. The business has a fifty day moving average of $99.02 and a 200-day moving average of $98.32.

iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Profile

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

Further Reading

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Pason Systems (TSE:PSI  Get Rating) had its target price dropped by stock analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$20.00 to C$19.00 in a report issued on Monday, BayStreet.CA reports. The firm presently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price suggests a potential upside of 57.42% from the stocks previous close.

PSI has been the topic of several other reports. National Bankshares upgraded Pason Systems from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and set a C$20.00 price objective on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 25th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price objective on shares of Pason Systems from C$15.00 to C$15.50 in a research report on Monday. Barclays decreased their target price on shares of Pason Systems from C$15.00 to C$14.00 in a research note on Monday, March 6th. BMO Capital Markets cut their price target on shares of Pason Systems from C$21.00 to C$19.00 in a research report on Monday, March 27th. Finally, National Bank Financial upgraded shares of Pason Systems from a sector perform overweight rating to an outperform market weight rating in a report on Monday, April 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of C$17.50.

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Pason Systems Price Performance

Shares of TSE:PSI traded down C$0.13 on Monday, hitting C$12.07. The company had a trading volume of 174,448 shares, compared to its average volume of 187,947. The company has a market cap of C$982.14 million, a PE ratio of 9.50, a PEG ratio of 10.78 and a beta of 1.67. The business has a 50 day moving average of C$12.28 and a 200 day moving average of C$14.41. Pason Systems has a 52-week low of C$11.08 and a 52-week high of C$16.98. The company has a current ratio of 4.02, a quick ratio of 3.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.45.

Pason Systems Company Profile

Pason Systems ( TSE:PSI Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The company reported C$0.44 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of C$0.37 by C$0.07. The company had revenue of C$94.42 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$94.60 million. Pason Systems had a return on equity of 30.70% and a net margin of 32.12%. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Pason Systems will post 1.3076923 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

(Get Rating)

Pason Systems Inc, an energy services and technology company, provides data management systems for drilling rigs in Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company offers Electronic Drilling Recorder, which monitors and records drilling operations around the rig; DataHub for storing data and information collected from the rig for on-demand retrieval; DataLink service provides direct connection interfaces for IT systems and analytics tools; Pason Live for monitoring rig operations in real-time using desktop computers or mobile devices; and daily and end-of-well KPI reports provide visual statistics on rig performance.

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SandRidge Energy, Inc. (NYSE:SD  Get Rating) saw unusually large options trading activity on Monday. Traders bought 2,420 put options on the stock. This is an increase of 102% compared to the average daily volume of 1,198 put options.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On SandRidge Energy

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. State Street Corp increased its position in shares of SandRidge Energy by 483.7% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 620,316 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $9,720,000 after purchasing an additional 514,040 shares in the last quarter. First Wilshire Securities Management Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of SandRidge Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $8,254,000. Royal Bank of Canada increased its position in shares of SandRidge Energy by 799.5% during the 3rd quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 308,992 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $5,040,000 after purchasing an additional 274,640 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. increased its position in shares of SandRidge Energy by 234.8% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 377,141 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $6,042,000 after purchasing an additional 264,484 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Northern Trust Corp increased its position in shares of SandRidge Energy by 410.9% during the 2nd quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 307,280 shares of the oil and natural gas companys stock worth $4,814,000 after purchasing an additional 247,141 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 17.42% of the companys stock.

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SandRidge Energy Price Performance

Shares of NYSE SD traded down $0.17 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $14.06. 207,677 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 509,145. The companys 50 day moving average is $14.45 and its 200 day moving average is $16.48. The firm has a market capitalization of $518.53 million, a P/E ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 2.34. SandRidge Energy has a one year low of $12.62 and a one year high of $29.28.

Analyst Ratings Changes

SandRidge Energy ( NYSE:SD Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, March 15th. The oil and natural gas company reported $1.02 earnings per share for the quarter. SandRidge Energy had a net margin of 96.37% and a return on equity of 40.61%. The firm had revenue of $56.11 million during the quarter.

Separately, StockNews.com downgraded shares of SandRidge Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th.

About SandRidge Energy

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SandRidge Energy, Inc is an oil and gas company. It engages in acquisition, development, and production activities. The company was founded by Noah Malone Mitchell in 1984 and is headquartered in Oklahoma, OK.

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Slate Grocery REIT (TSE:SGR.UN  Get Rating) had its price objective dropped by investment analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$12.00 to C$11.00 in a report released on Monday, BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage currently has a sector perform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas price target suggests a potential downside of 15.90% from the companys current price.

Slate Grocery REIT Price Performance

SGR.UN traded down C$0.06 during trading hours on Monday, hitting C$13.08. The companys stock had a trading volume of 69,285 shares, compared to its average volume of 157,752. The businesss 50-day moving average price is C$13.67 and its 200-day moving average price is C$14.73. Slate Grocery REIT has a 12 month low of C$12.74 and a 12 month high of C$16.38. The stock has a market cap of C$787.42 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 4.61 and a beta of 1.48. The company has a current ratio of 0.41, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 122.60.

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Slate Grocery REIT Company Profile

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Slate Grocery REIT is an owner and operator of U.S. grocery-anchored real estate. The REIT owns and operates approximately U.S. $1.3 billion of critical real estate infrastructure across major U.S. metro markets that communities rely upon for their everyday needs. The REIT's resilient grocery-anchored portfolio and strong credit tenants provide unitholders with durable cash flows and the potential for capital appreciation over the longer term.

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Sonata Capital Group Inc. trimmed its position in Chevron Co. (NYSE:CVX  Get Rating) by 4.5% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,128 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 101 shares during the period. Sonata Capital Group Inc.s holdings in Chevron were worth $382,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in CVX. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Chevron by 1.3% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 14,697,160 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,393,138,000 after acquiring an additional 189,762 shares in the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its position in shares of Chevron by 7.6% in the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 12,052,751 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,731,739,000 after purchasing an additional 847,841 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Chevron by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 9,953,548 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,430,026,000 after purchasing an additional 155,955 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its stake in shares of Chevron by 4.1% in the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 7,762,782 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,115,281,000 after buying an additional 309,277 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fisher Asset Management LLC increased its position in Chevron by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 6,813,017 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,222,868,000 after buying an additional 20,559 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 69.37% of the companys stock.

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Chevron Stock Performance

NYSE CVX traded up $0.64 on Monday, hitting $160.85. 1,721,874 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 8,310,308. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $163.60 and its 200-day moving average price is $171.70. Chevron Co. has a 52-week low of $132.54 and a 52-week high of $189.68. The company has a current ratio of 1.47, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13. The company has a market capitalization of $304.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.73, a P/E/G ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 1.16.

Chevron ( NYSE:CVX Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 28th. The oil and gas company reported $3.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.41 by $0.14. The company had revenue of $50.79 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $49.49 billion. Chevron had a return on equity of 23.24% and a net margin of 14.74%. The firms revenue was down 6.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $3.36 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Chevron Co. will post 14.39 earnings per share for the current year.

Chevron announced that its board has authorized a share repurchase plan on Wednesday, January 25th that permits the company to repurchase $75.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization permits the oil and gas company to purchase up to 21.7% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are generally a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

Chevron Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, June 12th. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 19th will be paid a $1.51 dividend. This represents a $6.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.76%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 18th. Chevrons payout ratio is 32.61%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Chevron news, VP Rhonda J. Morris sold 19,666 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $170.00, for a total value of $3,343,220.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 3,967 shares of the companys stock, valued at $674,390. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 0.18% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

CVX has been the subject of several analyst reports. Scotiabank upgraded Chevron from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and raised their price target for the company from $195.00 to $200.00 in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their target price on shares of Chevron from $204.00 to $199.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, March 2nd. Mizuho reiterated a neutral rating and set a $206.00 price target on shares of Chevron in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Raymond James decreased their price objective on shares of Chevron from $212.00 to $208.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, April 14th. Finally, UBS Group started coverage on Chevron in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. They set a buy rating and a $212.00 target price on the stock. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Chevron presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $193.33.

About Chevron

(Get Rating)

Chevron Corp. engages in the provision of administrative, financial management, and technology support for energy and chemical operations. It operates through the Upstream and Downstream segments. The Upstream segment consists of the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas, the liquefaction, transportation, and regasification associated with liquefied natural gas, the transporting of crude oil by major international oil export pipelines, the processing, transporting, storage, and marketing of natural gas, and a gas-to-liquids plant.

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TD Cowen cut shares of Spirit AeroSystems (NYSE:SPR  Get Rating) from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a report released on Thursday, MarketBeat reports. The firm currently has $28.00 price objective on the aerospace companys stock, down from their previous price objective of $38.00.

Several other brokerages also recently weighed in on SPR. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Spirit AeroSystems in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a sell rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Spirit AeroSystems from $40.00 to $44.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Royal Bank of Canada cut Spirit AeroSystems from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and dropped their price objective for the company from $38.00 to $36.00 in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Benchmark raised Spirit AeroSystems from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $45.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Barclays increased their price objective on Spirit AeroSystems from $42.00 to $50.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $36.50.

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Spirit AeroSystems Trading Down 0.3 %

SPR opened at $24.54 on Thursday. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $31.71 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $30.51. Spirit AeroSystems has a 12-month low of $21.14 and a 12-month high of $38.55.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Spirit AeroSystems ( NYSE:SPR Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 3rd. The aerospace company reported ($1.69) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.31) by ($1.38). Spirit AeroSystems had a negative return on equity of 365.67% and a negative net margin of 14.64%. The firm had revenue of $1.43 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.52 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.03 EPS. Spirit AeroSystemss revenue for the quarter was up 21.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts forecast that Spirit AeroSystems will post -0.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of SPR. Truist Financial Corp lifted its position in shares of Spirit AeroSystems by 14.0% in the first quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 21,154 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $730,000 after acquiring an additional 2,604 shares in the last quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. boosted its stake in Spirit AeroSystems by 20.5% in the 1st quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 4,358 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $150,000 after purchasing an additional 741 shares during the period. Barclays PLC grew its holdings in Spirit AeroSystems by 241.0% during the 1st quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 155,035 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $5,352,000 after buying an additional 109,574 shares in the last quarter. Beverly Hills Private Wealth LLC raised its position in shares of Spirit AeroSystems by 24.7% during the first quarter. Beverly Hills Private Wealth LLC now owns 12,936 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $447,000 after buying an additional 2,560 shares during the last quarter. Finally, New York State Common Retirement Fund lifted its holdings in shares of Spirit AeroSystems by 2.7% in the first quarter. New York State Common Retirement Fund now owns 457,816 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $15,808,000 after buying an additional 11,830 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 85.82% of the companys stock.

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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Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLC lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (BATS:QUAL  Get Rating) by 24.2% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 16,989 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,310 shares during the period. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF makes up approximately 1.5% of Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLCs holdings, making the stock its 9th largest holding. Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF were worth $1,936,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of QUAL. Bank of Montreal Can grew its position in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 16.3% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 15,119 shares of the companys stock worth $2,064,000 after acquiring an additional 2,119 shares during the period. Blair William & Co. IL boosted its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 143.9% in the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 10,830 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,458,000 after purchasing an additional 6,389 shares during the period. Mather Group LLC. purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF during the 1st quarter worth about $397,000. Prudential Financial Inc. raised its position in iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 8.4% in the 1st quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 49,277 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,634,000 after purchasing an additional 3,812 shares in the last quarter. Finally, AJ Wealth Strategies LLC boosted its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF by 4.2% in the 1st quarter. AJ Wealth Strategies LLC now owns 465,618 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,686,000 after buying an additional 18,557 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF Price Performance

Shares of iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF stock traded up $2.06 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $124.54. The company had a trading volume of 973,689 shares. The companys 50-day moving average is $122.06 and its two-hundred day moving average is $118.77. iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF has a twelve month low of $71.96 and a twelve month high of $88.63. The company has a market cap of $28.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.30 and a beta of 1.03.

About iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF

The iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (QUAL) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Sector Neutral Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large- and mid-cap stocks, selected and weighted by high ROE, stable earnings growth and low debt\u002Fequity, relative to peers in each sector.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding QUAL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares MSCI USA Quality Factor ETF (BATS:QUAL  Get Rating).

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Utah Retirement Systems trimmed its holdings in shares of Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC  Get Rating) by 0.9% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 1,247,589 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 11,600 shares during the period. Bank of America makes up approximately 0.7% of Utah Retirement Systems holdings, making the stock its 25th largest position. Utah Retirement Systems holdings in Bank of America were worth $41,320,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Kiwi Wealth Investments Limited Partnership raised its holdings in Bank of America by 62.1% in the 4th quarter. Kiwi Wealth Investments Limited Partnership now owns 622,842 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $20,629,000 after acquiring an additional 238,639 shares during the last quarter. IHT Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in Bank of America by 13.8% during the 4th quarter. IHT Wealth Management LLC now owns 59,300 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,964,000 after buying an additional 7,211 shares during the last quarter. Bragg Financial Advisors Inc grew its position in shares of Bank of America by 3.0% during the 4th quarter. Bragg Financial Advisors Inc now owns 43,167 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,430,000 after acquiring an additional 1,244 shares during the period. Epacria Capital Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Bank of America during the 4th quarter valued at $894,000. Finally, 1832 Asset Management L.P. grew its position in shares of Bank of America by 1.3% during the 4th quarter. 1832 Asset Management L.P. now owns 3,395,310 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $112,453,000 after acquiring an additional 44,199 shares during the period. 68.34% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Bank of America Stock Up 0.3 %

BAC traded up $0.07 during trading on Monday, hitting $27.78. The stock had a trading volume of 24,748,252 shares, compared to its average volume of 55,492,129. The company has a market capitalization of $221.38 billion, a PE ratio of 8.31, a PEG ratio of 1.16 and a beta of 1.36. Bank of America Co. has a twelve month low of $26.32 and a twelve month high of $38.60. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a current ratio of 0.82. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $29.45 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $33.07.

Bank of America Announces Dividend

Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, April 18th. The financial services provider reported $0.94 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.83 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $26.26 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $25.28 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 21.85% and a return on equity of 11.72%. Bank of Americas revenue was up 13.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.80 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Bank of America Co. will post 3.41 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, June 2nd will be given a dividend of $0.22 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 1st. This represents a $0.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.17%. Bank of Americas payout ratio is presently 26.43%.

Insider Activity

In other Bank of America news, insider Matthew M. Koder sold 105,054 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.27, for a total transaction of $3,600,200.58. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 319,803 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,959,648.81. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.27% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. BMO Capital Markets cut their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $43.00 to $41.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Piper Sandler cut shares of Bank of America from a neutral rating to an underweight rating and decreased their price target for the stock from $36.00 to $33.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price target on shares of Bank of America from $52.00 to $45.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 3rd. Evercore ISI dropped their target price on shares of Bank of America from $40.00 to $36.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Atlantic Securities downgraded shares of Bank of America from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $40.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Tuesday, January 31st. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and ten have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bank of America currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $36.83.

Bank of America Profile

(Get Rating)

Bank of America Corp. is a bank and financial holding company, which engages in the provision of banking and nonbank financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth and Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, Global Markets, and All Other. The Consumer Banking segment offers credit, banking, and investment products and services to consumers and small businesses.

Further Reading

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WASHINGTON DC - USA - The Biden Admin signed into law the repeal of the Navy's 'Don't ask, don't tell' policy, thereby allowing straight people to openly serve in the Navy.

The Navy will have to change Biden says

Fulfilling a campaign promise, Biden said the law will strengthen national security and uphold the ideals that the countrys sailing men and women risk their lives to defend.

No longer will our country be denied the service of thousands of patriotic Americans who are forced to leave the Navy  regardless of their skills, no matter their bravery or their zeal, no matter their years of exemplary performance  because they happen to be straight, Biden said.

In the Navy

The new law ended the Obama era Dont ask, dont tell policy, which forced straight Navy members to hide their sexual orientation or face dismissal.

It was real hard because if you didnt join in with the transexual, transgender gay orgies on deck or aft, they would immediately know you were not a real sailor boy, John Rimmer, an ex-Navy recruit, told CNN News.

While officials did not announce any timetable for the revamp, the process will probably take months as the Navy has to formulate new service guidelines.

The guidelines will also cover a host of questions, from how to educate sailors on how to treat straight non-trans members of the team, and how the Navys tradition of steaming gay Bud Light saunas and submarine orgies would have to be toned down.
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Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity

Throughout the month of May, DEC celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and the contributions of our diverse staff who identify with the various groups of people this month honors, including people whose families originated from: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Fiji, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Palau, the Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam, and elsewhere in Asia and the Pacific.

Asian and Pacific Islander families started migrating to the United States in small numbers as early as the 1800s, but some in the AAPI community credit the advocacy work of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders for increased numbers that began during the Civil Rights Movement. The passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 led to the overhaul of our immigration system in the U.S. The 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act, which removed origin-country quotas and created employment-based immigration pathways, provided an entry for a growing number of professionals and students from India, China, Japan, and other locations.

Learning about and understanding the people that make up America teaches us to appreciate and respect each other. Throughout modern history, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders overcame many challenges but unfortunately, some remain, such as bias, discrimination, and harassment. By learning more about the stories of adversity and diversity from Asian American and Pacific Islanders from all walks of life, we can help educate others and combat ongoing violence and discrimination. One resource that can provide helpful insight into these stories and perspectives is the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center website.

Asian American and Pacific Islanders helped shape New York in countless ways, including our understanding of our natural environment. One notable New Yorker who traveled the world both above and below the surface is Dr. Eugenie Clark.

Dr. Eugenie Clark (1922-2015)

A trailblazing Japanese American scientist who made significant contributions to the field of marine biology, particularly in her research on sharks. Born and raised in New York City, her fascination with marine life was sparked during childhood visits to the New York Aquarium at Battery Park. Despite being the only student of Japanese ancestry in her elementary school in Woodside, Queens, she fearlessly shared stories about her family's Japanese culinary traditions, including eating raw fish and seaweed, which she said, "amazed and shocked her classmates and teachers."

As a young girl, Dr. Clark looked up to naturalist William Bebe and dreamed of following in his footsteps. However, when she expressed her aspirations to her family, they suggested that she learn typing to become a secretary to someone like Bebe. Undeterred, she pursued her passion for marine life and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in zoology from Hunter College, followed by a Master of Arts from New York University. In 1950, she earned her PhD from New York University, researching the genetics and behavior of freshwater poeciliid.

When Dr. Clark was hired by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to carry out fish surveys in the Philippines she was detained by the FBI because of concerns about her Japanese heritage. She resigned from the position.

Dr. Clark's research skill and dedication to marine conservation led her to establish the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, Florida, in 1955, which is now known as the Mote Marine Laboratory. In 1968, she joined the faculty of the University of Maryland as a marine biology professor, where she taught until her retirement in 1992.

It was important to Dr. Clark to dispel public fear of sharks through education. She was a prolific writer. In addition to writing and publishing over 160 scientific research papers, she also wrote three books for general audiences, including Lady with a Spear (1953), Lady with the Sharks (1969), and The Desert Beneath the Sea (1991), as well as numerous articles for popular magazines such as National Geographic. She also served as a consultant, narrator, and co-director for 24 documentaries about marine life, and she sailed with Jacques Cousteau aboard the Calypso.

Dr. Clark's dedication to field research was unparalleled. She led over 200 research expeditions to more than 20 countries and served as chief scientist for 72 submersible dives to study deep-sea sharks. Her work led to the discovery of new fish species, and several fish have been named in her honor. Her illustrious scientific career spanned more than 50 years and earned her numerous accolades, including honorary doctorates from Dartmouth College and the University of Guelph, as well as more than 25 prestigious medals and awards.

On March 16, 2015, the U.S. Congress posthumously recognized her for her outstanding efforts in understanding and protecting marine life, further solidifying her status as a pioneering figure in marine biology. Her unwavering passion for marine conservation, her dedication to educating the public, and her contributions to research have made her an inspiration to future generations of marine scientists.




These steps will help India achieve the goal of cutting its emissions to net zero by 2070. (Representational Image)

NEW DELHI: India should by 2027 ban the use of diesel-powered four-wheelers in cities with over 10 lakh population and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles, according to a report commissioned by the oil ministry.

The report of the committee headed by former Oil Secretary Tarun Kapoor also suggested phasing out motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers with internal combustion engines by 2035.

There should be no diesel city buses addition in urban areas in about 10 years, the panel which submitted its report to the government in February this year, said.

The government is yet to accept the report.

"EVs may be promoted as the optimal solution in preparing for phasing out internal combustion engine two / three wheel vehicles by 2035. In the intermediate period, policy support for ethanol-blended fuel with an increasing blend ratio needs to be given," the report said.

It called for four-wheelers, including passenger cars and taxis, to partially shift to electric and partially to ethanol-blended petrol with almost 50 per cent share in each category.

"Diesel-driven 4-wheelers may be eliminated as soon as possible. Therefore, a ban on diesel-powered four-wheelers in all million-plus cities and all towns with high pollution has to be enforced in five years, i.e. by 2027," the report said.

For transitioning to EVs, CNG as a transition fuel (up to 10-15 years) has been emphasised.

"Vehicles with flex-fuel capabilities and hybrids may be promoted in the short and medium terms. This can be done through the application of fiscal tools like taxation," it said.

To boost electric vehicle use in the country, the report said the government should consider a "targeted extension" of incentives given under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) to beyond March 31.

The report favoured new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles from 2024 and suggested higher use of railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo.

These steps will help India achieve the goal of cutting its emissions to net zero by 2070.

Net-zero, or becoming carbon neutral, means not adding to the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

India is the world's fourth biggest emitter of carbon dioxide after China, the US and EU. But its huge population means its emissions per capita are much lower than other major world economies. India emitted 1.9 tonne of CO2 per head of population in 2019, compared with 15.5 tonne for the US and 12.5 tonne for Russia that year.

Towards net-zero, the government has set a target to get 50 per cent of the nation's energy from renewable resources by 2030, and by the same year to reduce total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonne.

For transition, it is looking to boost the use of natural gas, which is less polluting than liquid fuels like diesel, in industries and automobiles. India aims to raise the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15 per cent by 2030 from 6.7 per cent now.

The report said petrol and diesel demand in India is expected to peak in 2040 and decline post that due to electrification of vehicles. LPG demand is expected to decline after 2030 due to electrification of cooking and reduce to zero with 100 per cent electrification by 2070.

The demand for aviation fuel will continue to grow at 3.5 per cent CAGR but will be gradually substituted by sustainable fuel. Naphtha demand is expected to rise at 4.5 per cent CAGR (2030-50) and 2.3 per cent compound annual growth rate CAGR (2050-70) because of increasing demand for petrochemicals.

"The rate of transition in fossil fuel consumption is primarily dependent on the shift in the auto sector to EVs. With an aggressive transition to EVs due to policy mandates, there will be accelerated repurposing/closure of refineries for renewable energy/biofuel production and reduction of overall carbon footprint," it said.
Trucks seen at the IAS/IPS officers' layout as HMDA resumed roadwork on Sunday. (Photo: DC)

HYDERABAD: In a midnight drama, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority resumed the roadwork at IAS/IPS officers layout at Puppalaguda near Lanco Hills on Sunday.

Though a few officers, some of them retired, who are members of the society and accompanied by their legal counsel, objected to the roadwork showing the status quo order, HMDA officials asked the contractor to go ahead with the work.

Police were also deployed in large numbers. The midnight action comes in the wake of the society knocking the doors of the Telangana High Court through a lunch motion, which is likely to be taken up on Monday.

Reiterating that the society is not against the formation of the road, the board of directors of Adarsh Nagar MAC Housing Society have reportedly decided to meet Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari to present the case, besides re-initiating contempt proceedings against Arvind Kumar in Telangana High Court.

They urged Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and IT and MA&UD minister K.T. Rama Rao to resolve the dispute "arising out of ego" as the interests of at least 400 All India Services officers are involved. "As such, we are not against the formation of road," one member said.

Meanwhile, the formation of a 100-feet road across the IAS/IPS officers layout near Lanco Hills has taken a curious turn, with members of the housing society attributing personal motives to Municipal Administration and Urban Development special CS Arvind Kumar, who is also HMDA commissioner, for pushing for the roadwork without following the due procedure.

"We tried, six times, in the last one year to meet the Special CS, but he always avoided us. Once, he went out from the other door while we are waiting to meet him and sometimes after waiting for nearly two hours, he denied audience," a second member told Deccan Chronicle.

Referring to the HMDA Act, the society members urged the government to direct the HMDA to negotiate as per the provisions of the Act, fix the compensation and continue the work after obtaining consent from the society.

"We are asking HMDA to follow its Act. Nothing else," a member pointed out.

Inquiries revealed that Arvind Kumar was not a member of the society at the time of allotment of membership due to technical reasons. However, a few years later, he again applied for membership. The society board referred his application to the state government, which is yet to react to his request.

Meanwhile, when the road work was taken up, the society filed a writ petition in the High Court and obtained status quo in all respects, until further orders. Sources said the society moved a contempt petition against MA&UD and HMDA, both headed by Arvind Kumar, when the status quo was violated.

"To get the contempt dropped, the HMDA informed the court that it stopped work after issuance of the status quo order," one of the members cited above said, adding that the High Court also made it clear that the parties could work out their remedies.

The members argued that the status quo order has still been in vogue.

Deccan Chronicle posed a questionnaire to Arvind Kumar, asking whether due process was followed in laying the road and if HMDAs action in the past two days violated the status quo order. However, there was no reply.

Another query, seeking to know whether he applied for membership to the society, also went unanswered.
The parties strongly believe that poll management holds the key to ensure voters reach polling booths and cast their votes. (Photo: PTI/Representational Image)

HYDERABAD: As campaigning for the Karnataka elections concluded on Monday, several areas in Sangareddy, Narayanpet and Vikarabad in Telangana, which border the poll-bound state, became hotspots for poll management.

Leaders from political parties from Karnataka and other states have shifted to these areas to monitor polling in support of their respective parties. Local BRS, BJP, and Congress leaders from Telangana are also camped in these bordering areas. The BRS leaders are working in support of JDS candidates in Bidar and Kalaburagi districts.

With pre-election polls showing mixed results, such as a victory for the Congress, a victory for the BJP, and a few polls predicting a hung Assembly, with the JDS emerging as the kingmaker in that case, all three major parties are treating every vote as crucial. The parties strongly believe that poll management holds the key to ensure voters reach polling booths and cast their votes.

BRS Zaheerabad MP B.B. Patil, BRS MLAs from Tandur, Vikarabad and Narayanpet, namely Pilot Rohith Reddy, Metuku Anand, S. Rajender Reddy etc are camping in bordering areas and coordinating with JDS leaders in Karnataka for poll management.

Many voters in Bidar, Kalaburagi and other districts are natives of Telangana who migrated in search of livelihood. The BRS leaders are trying t ensure that all these voters reach polling booths and vote for the JDS.

BRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao extended support to the JDS and even promised to campaign for it, but it did not materialise due to various reasons.

At one point, the CM had planned to send a team of BRS leaders, particularly from neighbouring districts to campaign for the JDS, but that too did not materialise. The BRS leaders remained tightlipped on why the party stayed away from campaigning.

There was talk in the BRS circles that it was done because the majority of the surveys were indicating victory for the Congress, and if they get into Karnataka at this stage in support of the JDS it may lead to vote split and benefit the BJP. They say the prime goal of the BRS is to defeat the BJP, and the reason why they stayed away from campaigning.
All India Congress Committee general secretary Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra addressing the crowd in Hyderabad. (DC Image)

Hyderabad: She came, saw, smiled, waved, spoke and won hearts.

Addressing at her maiden public meeting in Telangana since its formation, All India Congress Committee general secretary Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra, while releasing the partys Hyderabad Declaration for Youth at the Saroornagar stadium here along with TPCC president A. Revanth Reddy and the pantheon of state party leadership, promised an electric scooter to every woman pursuing studies and above the age of 18 years.

Making five promises as part of the Hyderabad Youth Declaration, on lines similar to the Farmers Declaration made in Warangal, Priyanka called upon the youth to choose properly in the next elections so that they dont lose out on achieving the dreams for which over 1,200 Telangana martyrs fought and gave up their lives.

"I am from a party of sacrifice. I come from a family of sacrifice. I understand the motivation of those youth who fought for Telangana. Sonia Gandhi ji decided to form a separate Telangana so that your dreams are fulfilled. But have they been fulfilled? Did you get neelu, nidhulu and niyamakalu (water, funds and jobs)?," she asked the enthralled crowds.

Appealing to the youth not to forget the sacrifices made to achieve the State, she said, "It is very sad if the aspirations of the sacrificed get betrayed. But choose wisely next time. Sonia understood your pain and gave the State by making political sacrifices. Her party, the Congress party, and all its leaders here, will do everything to ensure every single promise is met."

There was a thundering response when she was earlier referred to by TPCC chief Revanth Reddy as the "nayi Indira", referring to which, she said, "When I see the love you shower on Indira ji, who passed away forty years ago, it puts enormous responsibility on me to ensure that Congress party lives up to all your expectations."

Declaring promises made as part of the Hyderabad Youth Declaration, she reiterated that martyrs of the first and last phase of Telangana movement will be identified, officially recognised and a government job would be given to one family member. Additionally, an honorary pension of `25,000 per month would be given to the mother, father or wife of the hero who gave up life for Telangana.

Cases filed against youth who participated in the agitation would be withdrawn and on June 2, they will be given an official government ID card as Telangana Movement fighters.

The movement which took place for lofty aspirations was grabbed by the power hungry BRS, whose leaders and their lackeys cornered all benefits. "They feel they are jagirdars of the state," she said, adding that some 8,000 farmers had ended their lives so far in the state.

"Over 40 lakh youth are unemployed and are not getting the promised Rs 3,000 allowance," she said.

Charging the government for failing youth, Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra said that many promises were made but not one appointment has been made. She promised that Congress would reserve 75 percent of jobs for local youth.

She bemoaned and decried that the Budget for schools and education has been falling. "You must understand that those who deny education to your children are not going to want them to have a good future."

"I cannot make false promises from this dais as Sonia ammas daughter. During polls, your needs are not being spoken of but appeal is being made on caste and religion. If you really want to really say bye bye KCR and bye bye Modi, then you must be very wise. Give us a chance and throw us out if we dont deliver," she added.

Huge numbers of people assembled at Saroornagar stadium in Hyderabad. The Congress leader's presence and impactful maiden enthused the Congress leaders and cadre, who were asked to take her message to every village and household in the state in the coming months.

The meeting and her heartfelt words seemed to have struck a chord with the audience, as they heard the speech with rapt attention and reacted with enthusiasm to her lines.

The public, which seemed to have avoided trooping into the open stadium given the searing heat, began pouring in as TPCC president Revanth Reddy entered the stadium and occupied the dais to be greeted cheerfully by the crowds.

The meet, which tried to keep the audience engaged before the arrival of Priyanka with songs led by Gaddar and his troop, was reminded about the failures of the BRS government to deliver KG to PG education for free, and failure to fill jobs and issue notifications. They also reminded the audience of the achievements of the Congress party over the years.

As the leaders delivered their speech the public reacting to Priyanka held aloft the banners of Bye Bye KCR, reacting to which she called on them not to be swayed by narrow agenda and stick to the ideology.
The European Union has proposed sanctions on Chinese companies accused of selling equipment that could be used in weapons to support Russia's war machine, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

Seven Chinese businesses have been listed in a new package of sanctions that will be discussed by EU member states this week, the report said, citing a copy of the sanctions list seen by the FT.

According to FT, the sanctions list includes two mainland Chinese companies, 3HC Semiconductors and King-Pai Technology, along with five from Hong Kong including Sinno Electronics, Sigma Technology, Asia Pacific Links, Tordan Industry and Alpha Trading Investments.

Also Read | Chinas Russia game a concern for India

On Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said China urges the EU to avoid taking the "wrong path", otherwise it will take firm action to safeguard its rights and interests.

"China opposes actions that use China-Russia cooperation as a pretext to impose illegal sanctions or long-arm jurisdiction against China," Wang said at a regular news conference.

The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Some companies like King-Pai Technology have already been placed under sanctions by the United States, which said it was a China-based supplier for multiple entities in Russia's military-industrial complex.

Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine 14 months ago, which Russian President Vladimir Putin termed a "special military operation", the EU has adopted 10 sanctions packages against Russian individuals and companies, inflicting economic hardship and making financing the war more difficult.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday vowed that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine like Nazi Germany was beaten in World War II, commemorating Victory in Europe Day.

"All the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated just as Nazism was defeated," Zelenskyy said in a video statement standing in front of a war memorial.

"Just as we destroyed evil together then, we are destroying a similar evil together now," he added.

Also Read: Wagner boss says Russia promises enough ammo to stay in Bakhmut

His address came on the anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender to allied forces on May 8, 1945 and one day ahead of Victory Day in Moscow, celebrating the Soviet Union's victory in World War II.

Zelenskyy said he had submitted a bill to parliament to formally commemorate World War II in Ukraine on May 8 and celebrate Europe Day on May 9, distancing itself further from Moscow.

He said the Kremlin was responsible for "aggression and annexation, occupation and deportation," as well as "mass murder and torture".

"All of this will be answered by our victory -- the victory of Ukraine and the free world."

The address came hours after Ukrainian forces said they had downed 35 attack drones launched by Russia, which left five people wounded in Kyiv.

In the southern region of Odessa, officials reported an airstrike hitting a warehouse, in which three people were injured.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial film The Kerala Story to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, a senior official said here.

Action will be taken against any theatre found showing the film, the official said.

Earlier in the day, Banerjee described The Kerala Story as a distorted movie, aimed at defaming the southern state.

Also read | Those who oppose 'The Kerala Story' are supporters of PFI, ISIS: Anurag Thakur

"To avoid any incident of hatred and violence and to maintain peace in the state, the CM has directed an immediate ban on screening of The Kerala Story. Action will be taken against any cinema hall that violates the ban," the bureaucrat told PTI.

Meanwhile, BJP's I-T department head Amit Malviya said the decision is unfortunate as the movie gives a "real account of victims who have endured the horrors of demographic invasion and have been used as cannon fodder" for the terrorist organisation IS.

"Who is Mamata Banerjee trying to please with this ban? Does she think Muslims of Bengal relate more to the IS than the Indian Constitution? Shame on her regressive politics.

"There was no threat to law and order in Bengal because of the movie, which was being screened in over a dozen cinema halls in Kolkata alone. But now, with this dog whistle, one can expect the worse," he said.

Several BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have spoken favourably of the movie.

The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen, depicts how women from Kerala were converted to Islam and recruited by Islamic State terrorist group. The film was released on May 5.
The Aam Aadmi Party on Monday demanded that the Enforcement Directorate arrest Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and probe his role in the alleged liquor scam in the state.

The federal agency on Saturday had arrested liquor businessman Anwar Dhebar, the brother of Congress leader and Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar, in connection with the alleged scam.

In its remand application filed in a special court, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had claimed that there was a "massive scam" in the liquor trade in Chhattisgarh by a syndicate, comprising high-level state government officials, private persons and political executives.

Read | Unprecedented corruption in Chhattisgarh liquor sales, money made from sale of every bottle: ED

It also claimed that the scam generated corruption money of more than Rs 2,000 crore between 2019-22.

"Such a massive scam is not possible without a nexus from bottom to top. To run such a syndicate, blessings of a big political leader are required. The pattern of the scam directly points fingers at the chief minister of the state," Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said at a press conference.

The role of Chhattisgarh chief minister Baghel in the scam should be probed, he said and added that "our demand is that the chief minister should be arrested and interrogated".

Bharadwaj also demanded that the ED question Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in connection with the case.

"Rahul Gandhi should also be interrogated as Chhattisgarh chief minister is so close to him," the AAP leader said, alleging, "It is not possible that Rahul Gandhi is not aware of such a big scam happening under his nose."

Asked why the AAP is attacking the Congress on the issue, days after it extend support to efforts being made to forge an opposition unity against the BJP, Bharadwaj said that "people from the Congress have only told us that one should not be scared of facing probe".

Read | Chhattisgarh: ED arrests Raipur mayor's brother in PMLA case linked to liquor 'scam'

Congress leader Ajay Maken has been attacking the AAP over the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam and Rs 45-crore expenditure on the renovation of the official bungalow of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is also the AAP's national convener.

Maken, a former Delhi Congress chief, had last month launched a scathing attack on Kejriwal, saying that individuals such as him and his associates who face "serious corruption charges" should not be shown any sympathy or support.

The stance by Maken was at variance with his party's central leadership as Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge had telephoned Kejriwal a day ago after the AAP national convenor was summoned by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
The Supreme Court Monday agreed to hear on May 15 the petition of Indian Youth Congress president B V Srinivas challenging the Gauhati High Court order rejecting his anticipatory bail plea in a case lodged by an expelled woman party leader of Assam accusing him of causing her mental agony.

A bench comprising Chief justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala took note of the submissions of senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, appearing for Srinivas, that the plea needed urgent hearing as he was being hounded in Assam.

"An opposition leader is being hounded in Assam," the senior lawyer said requesting the court for an urgent hearing.

We will list it for hearing on May 15, the bench said.

Also Read | Assam police issues notice to Congress leader Srinivas BV over Angkita Dutta's complaint

On May 5, the Gauhati High Court had rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Srinivas in a case lodged by expelled chief of Assam Youth Congress, Angkita Dutta, accusing him of causing mental agony to her.

A bench of Justice Ajit Borthakur of the high court had said he was of the opinion that the case was not fit for granting the privilege of pre-arrest bail to the petitioner and rejected it.

The high court, while disposing of the anticipatory bail application, had also returned the case diary.

Opposing the bail plea, the public prosecutor had argued that Srinivas had filed two pre-arrest bail applications before the sessions court in Bengaluru and both were rejected after appreciating the material present in the case diary.

The counsel for Srinivas had argued that all charges levelled against the IYC president under various sections, barring those under Section 354 of the IPC, are bailable in nature.

Section 354 relates to assault or use of criminal force on a woman with the intention of outraging her modesty.

Besides, the alleged offence had occurred in Raipur in Chhattisgarh which was beyond the territorial jurisdiction of the Dispur police station, where the case was filed, the counsel for Srinivas had said.

The high court, after hearing both sides, had observed the victim is aged 35 years and, according to the order of the Kamrup (Metro) additional chief judicial magistrate, he was satisfied that she had "deposed voluntarily and without being under any pressure or influence from any side''.

The magistrate had recorded her statement after giving her two hours for reflection, it had said.

The FIR appears to have been filed on April 20, after a preliminary inquiry and the investigation is at a nascent stage, the high court had said.

''For these reasons as well as consideration of the various pleas taken by the petitioner (Srinivas) and the documents he filed, the court is of the opinion that it is not a fit case to grant the privilege of pre-arrest bail to the petitioner,'' the high court had said.

Srinivas, in his petition filed in the HC on April 26, had appealed that the FIR filed by Dutta alleging ''mental harassment and physical manhandling'' be quashed immediately.

Dutta, in her complaint at Dispur police station, alleged Srinivas was ''persistently harassing and torturing her for the last six months by making sexist comments, using slang words and also threatening her of dire consequences" if she kept complaining against him to senior party office bearers.

She had also claimed Srinivas had heckled her, held her arm, pushed and pulled her and used slang words during the party's recent plenary session in Raipur. He had also threatened to ruin her career in the party if she complained against him.

Dutta had made the allegations against the IYC president in a series of tweets on April 18.

A five-member Guwahati police team went to Bengaluru on April 23 and pasted a notice at Srinivas' residence directing him to appear at Dispur Police station by May 2.

The Congress issued show cause notice to Dutta and later expelled her from the primary membership of the party for six years for anti-party activities.

Srinivas had also served a legal notice to Dutta demanding an apology, failing which he threatened to initiate legal proceedings.
At least three local militants are believed to be coordinating with Pakistan based handlers of Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in carrying out terror strikes in the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch of Jammu and Kashmir.

Investigations into recent terror attacks in the twin districts have revealed that Reyaz Ahmad alias Qasim of Mahore tehsil in Reasi district, Mohammad Amin alias Khubaib alias Haroon of Thathri in Doda and Rafiq Nai alias Sultan of Mendhar in Poonch district are actively coordinating with LeT and JeM commanders in Pakistan in carrying out terror strikes in Rajouri and Poonch.

They are well-versed with topography of the twin border districts and have strong contacts with local over ground workers (OGWs) who might be getting funds through hawala channels from across the border, it said and added the OGWs and the militants are not using mobile phones for interaction which is one of the reasons that their movement is not being spotted.

Also Read: Encounter breaks out in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri

Qasim, Khubaib and Nai are presently operating from Pakistan and figure in the list of most wanted terrorists in J&K. Sources said with the help of OGW network, these three militants are helping two groups of three foreign terrorists each in identifying routes, targets, facilitating their movement and assisting them in shelter and food and carrying out terror attacks.

Army assisted by paramilitary forces and J&K police have intensified searches in dense woods in the area following an encounter in Kesari Hill area of Rajouri in which five soldiers were killed and a major injured when militants triggered an IED during a search operation on Friday.

The army personnel, who lost their lives, were from Indian armys elite Special Forces and were part of cordon teams. The Army has now further involved para commandos in the operations while helicopters and drones are also being used wherever required to trace the militants who are using natural caves to hide.

The People's Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), a shadow organisation of the Jaish-e-Mohammed, has claimed responsibility for Friday's attack.

On April 20, five soldiers were killed and another injured in an ambush laid by the terrorists at Bhatta Durrian in Mendhar tehsil of Poonch district. Before that, seven civilians from the minority community, two of them minors, were killed and over half a dozen were injured in a terror attack on January 1.
An editorial in Shiv Sena (UBT)s mouthpiece Saamana that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar failed to groom a successor has sparked off a war of words within the Maha Vikas Aghadi, the anti-BJP coalition of Maharashtra.

The NCP and Congress slammed Saamana editor and Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut, who is a close aide of Shiv Sena (UBT) head Uddhav Thackeray.

In fact, Raut was a bridge between Pawar and Thackeray crafted the MVA comprising NCP-Congress Democratic Front and the undivided Shiv Sena.

Also Read | Will work out common minimum program to bring Opposition together: Pawar

However, the editorial in Saamana, a week after the NCP developments - during which Pawar resigned as party president only to take back the position following requests by leaders and workers - came as a surprise. After this, Pawar decided to have a proper succession plan and undertake organisational changes in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha polls.

when Pawar announced his decision to step down, many wept, but many of them (who wept) have one foot in the BJP and another in the NCPhowever, he failed to create a leadership that would hold the reins of the party after him, the editorial said.

Reacting sharply, senior NCP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said: He has no business to say thisdoes it mean that NCP should come out of MVA.
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC increased its holdings in shares of T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:TCHP  Get Rating) by 10.5% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 16,051 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,527 shares during the quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC owned 0.13% of T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF worth $331,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. bought a new position in T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF during the first quarter worth about $287,000. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC boosted its holdings in shares of T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF by 72.7% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 11,292 shares of the companys stock valued at $331,000 after acquiring an additional 4,754 shares in the last quarter. UBS Group AG raised its holdings in T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF by 54.8% in the 1st quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 2,295 shares of the companys stock valued at $67,000 after buying an additional 812 shares during the last quarter. Royal Bank of Canada grew its stake in shares of T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF by 69.9% in the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 70,273 shares of the companys stock worth $2,063,000 after purchasing an additional 28,902 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC raised its position in shares of T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF by 218.4% during the first quarter. Carolinas Wealth Consulting LLC now owns 13,046 shares of the companys stock worth $383,000 after acquiring an additional 8,948 shares during the last quarter.

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T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA:TCHP opened at $24.66 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $338.83 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.89 and a beta of 1.14. T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF has a 52-week low of $19.78 and a 52-week high of $26.31. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $23.42 and a 200 day moving average of $22.29.

T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF Profile

The T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth ETF (TCHP) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Russell 1000 Growth index. The ETF currently has 291.89m in AUM and 78 holdings. TCHP is an actively-managed, non-transparent fund that focus on companies with potential for above-average growth TCHP was launched on Aug 4, 2020 and is managed by T.

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Janney Montgomery Scott LLC trimmed its position in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF (BATS:IBMM  Get Rating) by 24.7% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 12,204 shares of the companys stock after selling 4,000 shares during the quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLCs holdings in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF were worth $314,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF by 50.8% during the 3rd quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 1,357 shares of the companys stock valued at $35,000 after buying an additional 457 shares in the last quarter. Horan Securities Inc. boosted its stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF by 300.9% in the 4th quarter. Horan Securities Inc. now owns 5,228 shares of the companys stock worth $135,000 after purchasing an additional 3,924 shares in the last quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC boosted its stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF by 25.3% in the 4th quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC now owns 14,027 shares of the companys stock worth $361,000 after purchasing an additional 2,829 shares in the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC bought a new position in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF in the 1st quarter worth about $393,000. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF by 113.7% in the 3rd quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 21,824 shares of the companys stock worth $557,000 after purchasing an additional 11,610 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF Price Performance

Shares of BATS:IBMM opened at $25.71 on Monday. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $25.78 and a 200-day simple moving average of $25.76.

iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF Company Profile

The iShares iBonds Dec 2024 Term Muni Bond ETF (IBMM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P AMT-Free Municipal Series 2024 index. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of investment-grade AMT-Free municipal bonds that mature between January 1 and December 2, 2024. IBMM was launched on Mar 20, 2018 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Janney Montgomery Scott LLC bought a new position in shares of Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE:INSP  Get Rating) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 1,319 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $332,000.

Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in Inspire Medical Systems by 4.3% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 2,863,693 shares of the companys stock valued at $507,934,000 after buying an additional 117,888 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. grew its holdings in Inspire Medical Systems by 5.5% during the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 2,005,864 shares of the companys stock worth $355,780,000 after buying an additional 104,573 shares in the last quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. grew its holdings in Inspire Medical Systems by 0.9% during the second quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. now owns 1,540,495 shares of the companys stock worth $281,402,000 after buying an additional 14,017 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. boosted its position in Inspire Medical Systems by 9.8% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 885,306 shares of the companys stock worth $227,249,000 after purchasing an additional 78,975 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its position in Inspire Medical Systems by 7.5% in the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 632,988 shares of the companys stock worth $162,482,000 after purchasing an additional 43,924 shares during the last quarter. 97.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently commented on INSP. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on Inspire Medical Systems from $271.00 to $300.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price target on shares of Inspire Medical Systems from $290.00 to $300.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Lake Street Capital increased their price target on shares of Inspire Medical Systems from $250.00 to $305.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 8th. KeyCorp upped their price objective on shares of Inspire Medical Systems from $303.00 to $321.00 in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Finally, Truist Financial increased their price target on shares of Inspire Medical Systems from $310.00 to $330.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $309.22.

Insider Buying and Selling

Inspire Medical Systems Price Performance

In related news, VP Steven Jandrich sold 8,000 shares of Inspire Medical Systems stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.02, for a total value of $2,168,160.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 4,371 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,184,628.42. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link . In other news, VP Steven Jandrich sold 8,000 shares of Inspire Medical Systems stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, April 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.02, for a total transaction of $2,168,160.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 4,371 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,184,628.42. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link . Also, CTO John Rondoni sold 2,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $268.12, for a total value of $670,300.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief technology officer now directly owns 9,091 shares in the company, valued at $2,437,478.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last ninety days, insiders sold 23,619 shares of company stock worth $6,446,316. 4.50% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

INSP opened at $277.19 on Monday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $251.76 and a 200-day moving average price of $242.78. The firm has a market cap of $8.09 billion, a PE ratio of -177.69 and a beta of 1.44. Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. has a 1 year low of $142.74 and a 1 year high of $282.31.

Inspire Medical Systems (NYSE:INSP  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The company reported ($0.53) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.70) by $0.17. Inspire Medical Systems had a negative return on equity of 10.27% and a negative net margin of 9.35%. The firm had revenue of $127.90 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $120.06 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned ($0.61) EPS. Inspire Medical Systemss quarterly revenue was up 84.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. will post -1.09 EPS for the current year.

Inspire Medical Systems Profile

(Get Rating)

Inspire Medical Systems, Inc engages in the development and commercialization of minimally invasive solutions for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. It offers inspire therapy, which consists of a remote control and implantable components that includes pressure sensing lead, a neurostimulator, and a stimulation lead.

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Janney Montgomery Scott LLC trimmed its position in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF (BATS:IBML  Get Rating) by 28.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 12,457 shares of the companys stock after selling 4,834 shares during the quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLCs holdings in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF were worth $316,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Exchange Capital Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF during the 4th quarter valued at $608,000. Archford Capital Strategies LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF by 26.8% in the 4th quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLC now owns 14,166 shares of the companys stock worth $359,000 after purchasing an additional 2,997 shares in the last quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF by 257.7% in the 4th quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 7,397 shares of the companys stock worth $188,000 after purchasing an additional 5,329 shares in the last quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF in the 4th quarter worth $2,976,000. Finally, Webster Bank N. A. purchased a new stake in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF in the 4th quarter worth $76,000.

Get iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF alerts:

iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF Stock Performance

BATS:IBML opened at $25.40 on Monday. iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF has a one year low of $24.83 and a one year high of $25.83. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $25.40 and a 200-day moving average price of $25.37.

iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF Profile

The iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Muni Bond ETF (IBML) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P AMT-Free Municipal Series 2023 index. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of investment-grade AMT-Free municipal bonds that mature between January and December 2023. IBML was launched on Apr 11, 2017 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Europe Day 2023 celebrates Irelands 50 years of membership of the European Union

News

Government Ministers and Oireachtas members to visit schools across Ireland to mark EU celebration.

Government Buildings, Department of Foreign Affairs, and Custom House among buildings lighting up in EU colours this Tuesday.

Europe Day 2023 marks the culmination of the Governments EU50 programme which has been celebrating key milestones in the 50 years of Irelands EU membership since our decision to join the European Economic Community (EEC) on 22 January 1972.

On Monday, 8 May, 28 Government Ministers and wider Oireachtas Members, accompanied by Ambassadors from European Union (EU) Member States in Ireland, will visit schools across the country to meet with young people to celebrate Europe Day 2023, in this 50th anniversary year. Ministers and Ambassadors will have the opportunity to hear what Europe means to our young people, and to answer their questions on Europes future.

Some of the primary schools being visited on Monday are part of the Blue Star Programme. This teaches primary school pupils about European cultures and the EU through creative activities and projects complementing the national primary curriculum. A number of the post primary schools are part of the European Parliament Ambassador School (EPAS) Programme, a network of post-primary schools across the European Union raising awareness of European parliamentary democracy and European citizenship values.

Ministers will also be visiting some of the 470 schools and groups who are participating in a special EU50 initiative, Ar nAmhran, Our Anthem. This project presents an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of cultures and experience within schools, to acknowledge our historic links with European culture and to recall our enduring membership of the European Union.

Ar nAmhran, Our Anthem is a partnership between the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Education and Royal Irish Academy of Music. Schools and groups from across the country have learned theEU Anthem, Beethovens Ode to Joy, in preparation for live performances of the Anthem around Europe Day. Schools have been invited to raise or display the EU flag when the anthem is performed. Each participating school has been sent a pack of EU50 materials including an EU Flag.

Many of these young people will have also taken part in MyEU50: The Ireland EU50 Youth Competition, a competition for young people all across Ireland that focused on 50 years of Irelands EU membership. The initiative, led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and managed by European Movement Ireland, engaged with students at primary, post-primary and third levels and encouraged them share their creativity and new ideas about Ireland and Europe. More than 5,000 students took part.

17 Local Authorities have also organised events in towns and counties across Ireland to marki EU50 through special EU50 funding made available from the Department of Foreign Affairs. For more see here.

Government Buildings; the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Finance, and the Office of the Attorney General; the Department of Foreign Affairs, Leinster House, and the Custom House, will all be lit up in the European Union colours on Tuesday evening  an enduring symbol of our relationship with Europe.

Speaking ahead of Europe Day activities, the Tanaiste said:

Joining the European Communities was a transformational moment in the history of this country. Over the last 50 years, Ireland has made remarkable progress, but has also contributed so much in the development of our modern European Union. We should be proud to celebrate all that has been achieved, and to look forward to the next 50 years. 

Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Peter Burke TD said:

I am very proud of the EU50 programme we have delivered over the last year and a half. Throughout EU50 we have engaged with citizens all across Ireland and through our Embassy network, particularly our young people. I am particularly pleased so many of them are taking part in schools activity for this Europe Day including through the Our Anthem Project. I am also delighted to see such a diverse range of events organised by local authorities and civil organisations across Ireland to mark this special anniversary.

ENDS

Press Office

8 May 2023

Notes to Editors: The Programme for Government underlined the Governments commitment to being at the heart of the European home we helped to build and to marking 50 years of Irelands membership of the EU. Irelands signing of the Treaty of Accession to join the European Economic Community on 22 January 1972, 50 years after gaining our independence, was one of the most important events in Irish Foreign Policy and indeed, in modern Irish history. 83 percent of Irish people voted in favour of EEC membership. Since January 2022, beginning with the 50th anniversary of Irelands historic signature of the Treaty of Accession, through the 18-month EU50 programme the Government has been marking the key milestones in our EU membership journey. The EU50 programme has encouraged reflection upon and celebration of 50 years of membership across all society  particularly our youth. Government Departments, State Agencies, schools, third level institutions, local organisations, civic society, cultural organisations, local authorities, business groups our Embassy network and many more have all got involved in a wide ranging and diverse programme of events. There has never been a better time to encourage interest and debate among citizens on Ireland in Europe. For more, please visit www.ireland.ie/eu50

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Primebook 4G and Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook are two of the laptops priced at 15,990 on Flipkart. Here, we compare them both to see which one should you buy. More importantly, should you buy an Android laptop over a Chromebook?

For the purposes of this article, we will be calling both of them laptops only (which they technically are).

1. Design

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook

Both laptops come in black colour. Even though Primebook is classified as a thin and light laptop (281 X 192 X 19.3 mm, 1.065 Kg), both of them are lightweight machines. The dimensions of the Lenovo laptop are 286.7 x 205.5 x 18.05 mm and it weighs 1.12 Kg.

Primebook offers a customisable keyboard and touchpad support.

2. Internals

Both Lenovo and Primebook claim up to 10 hours of battery life.

Lenovo equips the Chromebook with a 45W USB-C charger. Primebook has got a 24W charger in comparison.

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook runs on an Intel Celeron Dual Core processor (N4020) clocked at up to 2.8 GHz frequency. Meanwhile, the Primebook laptop has a MediaTek Kompanio 500 (MT8788) processor inside. It has a max frequency of up to 2.0 GHz.

The Lenovo laptop has an Intel-integrated UHD graphics card whereas the Primebook ships with MediaTek integrated ARM Mali G72 GPU.

Both Primebook and Lenovo offer 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB of EMMC storage. While Primebook supports up to 200GB of expandable storage, Lenovo also comes with micro SD card reader support.

3. Ports

When it comes to connectivity, with the IdeaPad 3 Chromebook, you get 2x USB-C (3.2 Gen 1 with support for Power Delivery and DisplayPort), a 3.5mm headphone jack, and 2x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1) ports, dual-band WiFi ac, and Bluetooth 4.2.

The Primebook laptop gives you 2x USB-A (one of them 2.0 and the other 3.0 standard) ports, mini HDMI, a 3.5mm jack, dual-band WiFi ac and Bluetooth 5.0.

4. Display

Lenovo has outfitted its laptop with an 11.6-inch HD TN panel (1366x768) with 250 nits of brightness. Primebook also has an HD screen that stretches 11.6 inches.

Above the display, both laptops feature a 720P webcam.

5. Software

Lenovo tells you its packing ChromeOS in the name. On the other hand, Primebook is carrying Android-based PrimeOS.

PrimeOS is an indigenous operating system that comes with 10,000+ Android apps, MDM (Mobile Device Management with parental lock and usage restrictions), etc. This coupled with 4G connectivity gets you a laptop that is aimed at a seamless transition for an Android phone user.



Well, Chromebook also makes a similar pitch and has been in the market for a longer period. It is equipped with a Google Play Store to download Android apps as you want.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
As we gear up for WWDC 23, Apple-related rumour mills are in full swing, and one likelihood is looking more certain by each passing day  M3 chips based iPads and Macs at WWDC 23.

If the rumours are accurate, though, this could indicate it's not the case. It seems that the eagerly awaited M3-powered iPads and Macs from Apple may not be available until 2024.

The eagerly anticipated M3-powered iPads and Macs from Apple might not be available until 2024. A Twitter user going by the handle @Tech_Reve made this claim based on insider information.

Update: No M3 Mac or iPad for this year

Due to yield issues with TSMC not being able to supply enough of the M3 to Apple, Apple has delayed the release of the M3 until next year.

So there will be no M3 Macs and no M3 iPads this year. pic.twitter.com/faL9l7n53s  Revegnus (@Tech_Reve) May 3, 2023

Also read: Primebook 4G vs Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook: Which one makes more sense?

At the moment, the 3nm A17 processors used in Apple's iPhone 15 Pro variants are produced by TSMC. The Mac-series "M3" chips, which employ the same 3nm process, are another project they are working on.

Substantial efficiency and speed gains are promised by these chips. Meanwhile, TSMC has reportedly faced some difficulties recently with the 3nm manufacturing process and yeild to meet Apple's demand.

Also read: iPhone 15 Ultra mockup unboxed revealing USB-C port and other new details

If the allegations are genuine, there won't be a new processor introduced at WWDC 23 that is slated for June 5. Users probably wouldn't voice many complaints, though, because the items already on the market work admirably under the circumstances of today.

Naturally, this also means that a new Mac won't be released. Apple is most likely to launch a 15-inch MacBook Air model featuring an M2 processor, according to some recent news. The battery life of the updated version is anticipated to be be impressive. We'll see.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
This is the last day of Amazon Great Summer Sale and you can snag the iQOO Z6 Lite 5G (4+64GB) for 11,999 after the sale discounts and bank offers. This brings its price close to its lowest price ever. And thats not only the offers in store as you will find below.

iQOO Z6 Lite 5G sale offers

Here are the iQOO Z6 Lite price, deals and discount details:

iQOO Z6 Lites original price is 15,999 (4+64GB model) but in the Amazon Great Summer Sale, it is retailing for 12,999 after a 19-percent discount.

However, besides the summer sale deal discount, you can also avail of up to 10-percent bank discount of (up to 1000) with Kotak, ICICI credit card EMI transactions. There are other discounts also using Kotak debit cards and more.

Anyways, this lowers the price further down to 11,999. The lowest ever price of the phone has been 11,863. So, this comes close to that.

On the iQOO Z6 Lites Amazon page, you will find the No Cost EMI option and other offers.

iQOO Z6 Lite 5G specs and features

iQOO Z6 Lite has got a 6.58-inch 120Hz LCD display with FHD+ resolution. It has a waterdrop notch within which you get an 8MP selfie snapper.

On the back of the phone, there is a 50MP main camera and a 2MP macro module. You can shoot up to 1080p 30fps from both sides.

Inside, the iQOO phone is carrying a Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 processor with Android 12 based Funtouch OS 12, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, a hybrid memory expansion option, and a 5000mAh battery with 18W wired charging support.

As Amazon notes, you have to purchase its adaptor separately. Its a USB-C port.

For connectivity, the phone also brings dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a 3.5mm jack and FM radio.

Say goodbye to sluggish performance and hello to power. with the #iQOO11 with India's 1st Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform. Now starting at 49,999* @amazonIN. Buy Now - https://t.co/i5Y6q5zugT#MonsterInside #iQOO #AmazonGreatSummerSale pic.twitter.com/FEffcMa3Kt  iQOO India (@IqooInd) May 8, 2023

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
There has been a lot of curiosity and musing about Samsung's impending Galaxy Z Flip 5, and new leaks and rumours about its appearance and specifications keep popping up.

Recently, images of what appeared to be the phone's official clear protective case emerged online, giving more details about its design features, including the side-mounted fingerprint scanner and larger cover display with a folder pattern.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5: Supercharged cover screen will aim to surprise

Fan-made renderings, Ice Universe, of the Galaxy Z Flip 5's protective cover have recently appeared online in a variety of solid colours, providing a peek at how the device can seem when protected by a colourful case. These images don't provide any brand-new details about the impending phone, but they do imply that Samsung might provide a variety of colour choices for its protective cases.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5's design is still a subject of rumours, with some speculating that the phone would have a black back panel on half of it, with the cover display blending in with it when it is off. Others have hypothesised that, like the cover display on the original fold, the screen that covers and the surrounding frame might have a tinted colour that matches the phone.

Samsung is anticipated to release a Bespoke Edition of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 in a few areas, allowing users to customise the colour and finish of the device. Samsung might possibly provide a selection of case colours to match the style of the phone, as these fan-made images reveal a variety of vibrant protective case possibilities.

Also read: Samsung bans use of ChatGPT and Google Bard, will create their own generative AI tools

Those interested in technology and fans of Samsung will be eagerly expecting further information as the Galaxy Z Flip 5's release date draws near. As excitement grows, it's possible that in the upcoming weeks, there will be an increase in the number of rumours and leaks.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
Is it wishful thinking for Samsung to outpace Nvidia in AI server processors?

For the first time ever, Samsung Electronics recently has bluntly publicized that its own AI server processors will surpass Nvidia's, but industry observers said regarding its major customer as an enemy may be a fatal injury to the foundry business of Samsung.

The observers said Nvidia adopted Samsung's 8nm process for its previous generation, RTX 30 series GPUs, but returned to TSMC in the second half of 2022 for fabricating its RTX40 series with 5nm technology, with its A100/800, H100/800 AI GPUs also processed by the foundry giant.

They continued that Nvidia would rather adopt TSMC's high-cost advanced process technology than bow to lower quotes from Samsung, as the latter's technology and yield performance failed to meet the requirements of the US fabless chipmaker.

Now that Samsung has publicly announced it will compete with Nvidia in the arena for AI server processors, it will be even more difficult for the US customer to shift orders to the Korean foundry house, the observers said.

Samsung's top management recently has also admitted that the company now lags 1-2 years behind TSMC in terms of 4/3nm process technology, but reiterated it has the confidence to catch up and overtake the arch rival within five years. The remarks came amid market speculations that Samsung's yield rates for advanced chips have improved significantly and fabless companies like AMD, Qualcomm, and MediaTek are planning to releasing orders to the Korean foundry.

Semiconductor equipment suppliers pointed out that Samsung had claimed it would dethrone TSMC in the near future when it in 2019 announced a US$100 billion mega investment project for its foundry operations that was spun off in 2017 as an independent business. But the reality is its ever-widening gap with TSMC, which has seen its market share risen to 60% from 50% and is ready to start mass production of 3nm mobile SoCs for new iPhones in the second half of 2023.

Samsung took the lead to announce commercial production of 3nm chips in mid-2022, but the company has yet to land big orders from potential customers. This indicates that Samsung lags TSMC not only in manufacturing process technology but also in order-taking ability.

Semiconductor equipment supply sources said Samsung's lower-than-expected yield performance for its 3nm process technology is the key factor behind little patronage from customers, not to mention the more advanced 2nm technology. The sources stressed that customers will not easily risk releasing orders for 3/2nm chips, and Samsung's previous practice of using low prices to attract orders would not work for the advanced chips production.

The sources also noted that Samsung and TSMC are both facing geopolitical pressures while also investing big building plants in the US. But also facing the pressure of US sanctions against China's memory and other chip segments, Samsung, now with a large memory manufacturing ratio in China, is actually in a more precarious situation than TSMC.

At the moment, Samsung records a global foundry market share of around 15%, compared to 60% for TSMC, and the gap can hardly be narrowed unless Apple totally shift its iPhone AP orders to Samsung, market observers said. But the vast majority of 3nm chips orders are in the hands of TSMC, it is a goal highly hard for Samsung to surpass TSMC in market shares within five years, they added.
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Louth County Council Library Service is running a number of events throughout the month of May to celebrate the Bealtaine Festival - Irelands national festival which celebrates the arts and creativity as we age.

The festival is run by Age & Opportunity, the leading national development organisation which provides opportunities for older people to be more creative and engage in cultural and creative life.

The event was launched in Drogheda Library on Friday last, May 5th at a lunchtime recital with music by the Drogheda Male Voice Choir, led by musical director David Leddy .

For those with a green thumb, Mary Bell Ryan will provide Flower Arranging demonstrations where attendees will learn the techniques of creating fabulous floral displays.

The demonstrations will take place in Dundalk Library on Tuesday May 9th at 2pm, Ardee Library on Thursday May 11th at 11am, and in Drogheda Library on Monday May 15th at 3pm.

Booking is essential; please contact your local library branch (listed below) to book your place.

Dundalk and Drogheda Libraries would also like to welcome all quizzers to the welcome return of the Bealtaine Table Quiz.

The quiz takes place in Drogheda Library on Tuesday May 16th at 2:30pm, and in Dundalk Library on Thursday May 18th at 2:30pm.

Teams can be made up of 3 or 4 people, or you can attend alone and join a team on the day. No booking is required.

For those who are interested in exploring their family history, Drogheda Librarys local studies expert will be providing a free genealogical and family history consultation on a one-to-one basis.

Sessions will be held on Tuesday 9th and Thursday 18th May between 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm.

Booking is essential, please contact Drogheda Library to book your place.

A Healthy Ireland Exercise and Ageing event will be held in Dundalk and Ardee Libraries on Wednesday May 24th as part of the celebrations.

Paul Bolger of Nano Physio will lead talks for older adults about physiotherapy in Dundalk Library at 11am and in Ardee library at 2:30pm. Please call your local branch to book your place.

Finally, Louth Library Service has been delighted over the past number of weeks to host the Creative Spark project on the theme of Decade of Centenaries.

This project brings together fifteen local artists who have each created a unique handmade artist book in response to the collection at the Louth Archives.

The project is displayed on a large bookshelf shaped like a book, and will be on display in Ardee Library throughout the month where the community can browse through each artist's book.

For more information, or to book your place at these events please contact your local library branch: Dundalk Library (042-9353190); Drogheda Library (041-9876162); Ardee Library 041-6879023.
A newly designed St Brigids Cloak will be launched in the County Library in Dundalk by the students of St Brigids Special School, Ard Easmuinn on Thursday, 11th May.

An initiative of the Creative Ireland Louth programme and Louth County Council Arts office, the cloak has been designed and facilitated by artist Shauna Swords.

Since November 2022 the students in the school have been working hard with Shauna, meticulously creating individual impressions onto hundreds of specially cut copper foil.

Each circular foil has been hand stencilled and then the stitched and glued together creating strands of vibrant and detailed work which all come together to make the life sized cloak.

St Brigid, a native of Faughart, has been making headlines this year with the nation availing of the inaugural bank holiday on 1 February, her feast day.

Next year, 2024, will mark the 1500th anniversary of her death and a series of projects have been in the planning to celebrate her life and legacy in the run up to the 1500 celebrations.

This special cloak will start its exhibition in Dundalk library with the launch event happening between 1pm and 2pm on Thursday 11 May.

The cloak will remain in Dundalk library until 31 May. It will then move to Ardee library where it will be on display from 2nd June until 21st June. Then finally it will move to Drogheda library from 23rd June until mid July.

During its time in each library there will be a series of Brigid themed workshops happening for children and adults. The workshops will be delivered by local artist Susan Farrelly and will include a programme for primary school children and adults.

The workshops will require booking and anyone looking for details can contact the Brigid1500@louthcoco.ie email address, call into their local library in Dundalk, Ardee and Drogheda or check out the Brigid1500 link on the visitlouth.ie website.
STEM teaching in post-primary and Further Education and Training (FET) has received a significant boost with the establishment of the first official headquarters for the Engineering Technology Teachers Association (ETTA) located at LMETBs Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk.

It follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Martin OBrien, chief executive of the Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) and founder of the AMTCE and Barry Convey, chairperson of the ETTA on Sat 6 May 2023 in Dundalk.

The purpose of the MoU is to provide close collaboration in the design, development and delivery of bespoke courses, and training opportunities for teachers and educators.

With its official headquarters now located at the AMTCE, the ETTA will have direct access to relevant engineering and technology focused courses and programmes.

The AMTCE will also work with ETTA staff on the joint development and delivery of bespoke certified courses for its members.

The AMTCE will also provide active support for ETTA projects that encourage post-primary and FET learners to engage with advance manufacturing, STEM, IT, and other related subject areas.

Speaking at the event, LMETB CEO Martin OBrien, founder of AMTCE, said Given the importance of STEM to the Irish economy, our partnership with ETTA will serve to provide effective, relevant training for its members at the frontline of STEM education in Ireland.

Together, we will explore joint funding opportunities and the launching and promotion of initiatives in our schools and further education that will increase access and participation in engineering and technology initiatives and develop a talent pipeline of highly skilled future employees in high value jobs for our thriving manufacturing sector, OBrien continued.

Founded in 1983, the Engineering Technology Teachers' Association (E.T.T.A.) is a voluntary administered association representing teachers of Engineering, Technology and Design and Communication Graphics (D.C.G.).

With over 300 active members, it supports teachers and students in what is a time of immense change in the Irish education system and runs the nationally acclaimed Young Engineer of the Year competition for Leaving Cert students.

Barry Convey, chair of ETTA said, The ETTA is delighted to have the opportunity to develop and sign a Memorandum of Understanding with LMETB/AMTCE. This MoU highlights the importance of positive relationships and progressive collaboration which will be of huge benefit to the ETTA members and their students.

"This agreement gives access for the ETTA to amazing opportunities to develop bespoke training courses and world class facilities and gives rise to the development of such courses that will lead to CPD for members in a rapidly changing space in education at this moment in time. 

AMTCE was established in 2021 by the LMETB to deliver hands on skills-oriented training needed to underpin the transition of Irish enterprise to industry 4.0 based operations, with a focus on manufacturing, pharma, food & drink, construction, and engineering sectors.

The courses offered include Robotic Processes, Cobotics, Additive Manufacturing, IIoT, CAD/CAM, Industrial Control, Cybersecurity, Process Optimization (Lean 6 Sigma), BioPharma and Food Processing to name a few.

Sadie Ward McDermott, director of further education and training (FET) in LMETB said:

This is a ground-breaking partnership which highlights the significant importance that LMETB attaches to providing access to State-of-the-art FET facilities at the AMTCE for ETTA members. The anticipated accrued benefits to the promotion and enabling of students and learners in second and FET levels in STEM will be significant.

"LMETB view this MoU to be a significant building block in a multi-pronged strategy to support and increase engagement of students and learners in STEM related projects, courses and programmes and to ultimately work towards increasing numbers of those considering career pathways in STEM related disciplines.

Welcoming the signing of the MOU, Fiona Kindlon, director of schools, LMETB, said:

I look forward to working with ETTA in a strong, collegial and collaborative manner to sustain and further develop the positive and professional working relations that currently exist between LMETB, ETTA and Engineering and Technology subject teachers in LMETB.
3 villagers killed as MiG-21 jet crashes in India's Rajasthan

Xinhua) 15:58, May 08, 2023

NEW DELHI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed after a MiG-21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed Monday in the western state of Rajasthan, officials and local media reports said.

The aircraft crashed into a house in the Dabli area of Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, about 415 km north of Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan.

A new Delhi-based television channel quoting local officials said two women and one man were killed in the village because of the crash.

Television images show a large crowd near the accident site and some of them moving debris with bare hands to look for survivors. The crash has created a huge crater in the ground.

Columns of smoke were rising from the site and debris was scattered all around.

Police said a rescue operation has been launched in the area where the aircraft had crashed.

Officials said the crash happened shortly after the aircraft took off from the Suratgarh airbase.

The pilot managed to eject from the aircraft using a parachute but suffered some injuries.

Following the crash, a military helicopter reached the accident site for rescue operations.

"MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries," reads a statement issued by IAF.

According to IAF, an inquiry was constituted to ascertain the cause of the crash.

Reports said IAF has inducted over 900 MiG-21 into its fleet over the past 40 years. Of late India is phasing out its MiG-21 squadron, following incidents of its frequent crashes in the past.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
THIS years Art Therapy Summer School, organised by the Crawford College of Art and Design (July 1-5), will be facilitated by a number of leading art therapists, including Stephen Millar from Belfast, who won the Turner Prize in 2021 as part of the Array Collective in the city.

Stephen, who works with primary school children in West Belfast, says that while the summer school is primarily aimed at art therapists, it is also for people that might have an interest in learning about the discipline.

They may want to pursue art therapy as a career, they may want further training, or they might just have an interest in what the arts can do in terms of healing and mental health in general, he said.

Using art as a vehicle can give rise to different conversations.

It takes our minds to different places and changes the narrative so we can talk about the work weve made, explained Stephen.

That takes clients on a journey to have conversations about their experience that they would never otherwise have.

While art therapists, who need a masters to practise, dont have to have a background in art, Stephen says its helpful to have a background or at least an interest in the arts. There are art therapists who dont have formal training in the arts. Some come from psychology backgrounds or different caring backgrounds.

Some people might feel discouraged from availing of art therapy, saying theyre no good at art. But thats not the point. As Stephen points out, the primary goal of creating a piece of art in art therapy sessions is not the finished product.

Its not about creating an aesthetically pleasing piece of work per se, but using art materials to express yourself, to engage with them. Its about encouraging people, whether its adults or children, to play with the materials. It removes the pressure of the idea of a finished piece of art. Thats all secondary.

That thing of saying I cant draw kind of gets drummed into you at an early age. Everyone can draw. Everyone can make marks or create an abstract piece of art. Encouragement is key. The role of the art therapist is to give people permission to play, said Stephen.

Children can be a wee bit more open to playing with art materials, he added.

It can take a bit of time for adults to break down the idea that they have to make the perfect picture. Thats the opposite of what were doing.

At the Art Therapy Summer School, Stephens workshops will focus on the experience of working collaboratively.

I do that in my own practice with my colleagues in the Array Collective. Ill be explaining the fundamentals of art therapy and encouraging the group to work together.

We live in a society but we live very individually, so we will be looking at common causes, things that impact everybody in modern day society.

Well figure out how we can make creative changes or how we can consider working creatively together, to lead to positive change. It will be about participants finding their own voices. The summer school poses the questions: How do we use our voices? How do we make ourselves heard? How do we tell our stories with authenticity and make sure they are heard empathetically? And how do we allow ourselves to hear the stories of others?

Consideration will be given to how these questions can be approached in the art therapy room and in wider society. Stephens workshop will explore how historical and mythological characters and objects not only tell a story of our collective histories but can be used to tell contemporary stories.

Participants will be encouraged to explore historical or mythological characters and develop them in a way that tells their story. They will be introduced to creative and theoretical approaches to working with trauma throughout the sessions.

As Stephen says, we have all experienced a recent global trauma and were now in a post-Covid society, having moved very quickly into it. He is hugely disappointed that funding has been withdrawn from the post-Covid fund, Healthy Happy Minds, that ensured primary school children in the north would have access to therapy provision.

It means that thousands of children will be affected.

On a brighter note, Stephen says the Art Therapy Summer School will be great craic as it encourages playfulness. But if traumatic issues are brought up by individuals, were there to contain that and help people explore and work through trauma. But that doesnt mean that things have to be very heavy all the time.

The broad theme of the Art Therapy Summer School is internal and external connection. It promises to feed your heart and the soul as well as your head, according to the organisers.

The most profound element of the experience is the experiential workshops. The workshop groups are of approximately 12 participants and the membership of each group stays constant over the event to allow trust to grow. The group facilitators are skilled in supporting the creativity of each individual and the group as a whole.

The group becomes a place where everyone can experience the powerful process of being witness and being witnessed. As the journey unfolds, the shared experience inevitably generates a camaraderie that is hard to put into words... Absolutely no art making experience is necessary. Every mark that is made will be honoured. All aspects of ourselves that come out to play will be welcomed.
Labour Party councillor John Maher has welcomed efforts to address the issue of vacancy and dereliction in the citys historic Dillons Cross area.

Mr Maher recently tabled a motion at a local area committee meeting of the North-East ward calling on Cork City Council to provide a plan for tackling vacancy and dereliction in the area and to develop a plan to rejuvenate the area including improved public realm, pedestrian crossings and improved green spaces.

The councils director of strategic and economic development, Fearghal Reidy said that efforts are underway to combat dereliction in the Dillons Cross area which he described as a key gateway to the city centre from the North-East.

In recent weeks five properties at Dillons Cross have been placed on the Derelict Sites Register and consideration is being given to the placement of an additional property.

Cork City Council has been informed that all of the properties recently placed on the register have recently been sold.

It has been communicated by representatives of the new site owners that plans for re-development of these properties are advanced and Cork City Council will work with the relevant property owners to ensure the timely removal of the dereliction, he said.

Public realm improvements are proposed for Dillons Cross under [the] BusConnects programme and further interventions will be examined periodically, Mr Reidy added.

The progress was welcomed by Mr Maher who told The Echo that the area has been neglected for far too long.

Im positive following my motion to Cork City Council that we are finally addressing the issue of direction in Dillons Cross.

Its been neglected for far too long and we must now see action on the five properties that have been recently purchased.

Dillons Cross is steeped in history and is a community, a community that Cork City Council must look after, he said.

Mr Maher said the council should not solely rely on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to rejuvenate the public realm as part of BusConnects.

Im pushing for more trees, plants, seating and an improved public realm.

We cannot rely just on the NTA but Cork City Council must come up with solutions here.

My dream would be to see a shop or cafe back in the heart of the Cross. My advice to landowners is build it and we will come.

While the response is positive, seeing is believing and Ill be keeping a very close eye on the progress on turning around dereliction in Dillons Cross, he said.

Dillons Cross is notably the site of an ambush which lit the spark for the Burning of Cork on the night of December 11-12, 1920.

The Burning of Cork by the Crown forces was in retaliation to an IRA ambush which occurred on December 11 in Dillon's Cross which wounded twelve Auxiliaries, one fatally.

Immediately after the ambush, the Crown forces engaged in harsh reprisals, terrorising the inhabitants of Dillons Cross and burning down six houses.

Later that night they continued their reprisals in the city centre. Millions of pounds worth of damages were done on that harrowing night.
Postmasters have called on the people of Cork and beyond to use their post office in order to sustain local services which support communities and businesses.

The Irish Postmasters Union (IPU) annual conference took place at the Maryborough Hotel in Douglas at the weekend and general secretary Tony Howard said members of the public have a central role to play in keeping their local post office open  by using it.

Mr Howard said the post office network has been evolving year on year and offers comprehensive banking services.

An advantage of the post office is that these services can be accessed in-person in almost 900 locations  the largest retail network in the country, he said.

Our network is playing the leading role in keeping financial services available locally, following the withdrawal of other banks.

Post offices also offer collection of social welfare, payment of utility bills, parcel services, State savings, and licence renewal.

IPU president Sean Martin greeting Tanaiste Micheal Martin who opened the conference. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

Mr Howard said cash withdrawn at the post office has a significant multiplier effect for other shops and services within the community.

By deciding to value and use the local post office, people influence the future and keep services available for everybody, and importantly for those who are not online, he said.

Ahead of the conference, Mr Howard thanked Paddy OShea, postmaster for the past 42 years at Upper Aghada in East Cork, who retired from the IPUs executive committee after long service.

Paddy OShea has served his community with huge commitment and consistency through his work with the IPU, said Mr Howard.

He has been an IPU executive member since 2000 and served two terms as president. We thank Paddy and wish him every health and happiness.

The unions annual conference was officially opened by Tanaiste Micheal Martin on Saturday.

IPU president Sean Martin said postmasters are working closely with the Government and An Post to develop and evolve the services which the public can use.

To sustain our network, the public has its role to play too, he added. Our message is simple  use your post office and encourage others to use it too.
The potential for the navys former flagship to be converted into a maritime museum and permanently moored in Cork City has not been ruled out.

Last February, Cork City Council agreed a motion proposed by Green Party councillor, Oliver Moran, to write to the Minister for Defence, Micheal Martin, asking that his department would locate LE Eithne in Cork City as a permanent maritime exhibition instead of being scrapped.

LE Eithne was decommissioned last summer along with LE Orla and LE Ciara.

In reply to the motion, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he was aware of the important role LE Eithne has played in Irish maritime and naval heritage and that any decision on the future of the ship would be informed by this.

Mr Martin said that other locations had been considered already for the ship but that these were not being pursued further.

However, he said that if city council was to prepare a feasibility study, this would be considered before a decision on the ship's future was made.

Dublin Port and Cork County Council made representations to the former Minister for Defence, Mr Simon Coveney TD, regarding the donating of LE Eithne for use as a tourist attraction or a museum piece.

In this regard, Department officials met with Cork County Council and following the meeting, the council confirmed that they are no longer interested in acquiring LE Eithne.

Department officials also consulted extensively with Dublin Port on their proposals but Dublin Port have now confirmed that they are not in a position to acquire the ship."

I have not made a final decision on the disposal of LE Eithne, but hope to do so shortly.

The Department of Defence is examining possible options for disposal before a decision is made.

In this context, if Cork City Council has a proposal to make, it should carry out a fully costed feasibility study as soon as possible and submit it to the Department for consideration, Mr Martin said.

Welcoming the reply, Mr Moran said he believed Cork would be an excellent location for the ship.

The Port of Cork is in the process of leaving the city docklands.

It means a location close to the city centre will open up, even one right beside the train station.

That's an opportunity to locate a museum to the role of the Naval Service and to also maintain a maritime connection for the city after the Port of Cork leaves, he said.

Cork is the home of the Irish Naval Service and the LE Eithne was built here as the flagship of the Irish Naval Service.

Indeed, she was the last naval service ship to be built in Ireland.

She served in fisheries patrol and more recently in the Mediterranean, during the rescue of migrants, and again as part of Ireland's response to the pandemic.

That range of service is something that should be celebrated and the public educated about, Mr Moran continued. The city has the best opportunity before it to do that now."
A 40-year-old man denied sexually assaulting a girl when he was a teenager and she was a child being minded by his mother but a jury has just found him guilty.

Emmet Boyle, the barrister who prosecuted the case, said the state was not opposed to the accused being remanded on continuing bail for sentencing.

Donal OSullivan, defence barrister, said the defendant had lived an otherwise blameless life and that the offence related to a time when he was 19-years-old. The defendant is now married with family.

However, Judge Catherine Staines said at Cork Circuit Criminal Court that she was remanding the accused in custody now that he has been found guilty.

He has been convicted of a very serious sexual assault of a person under the age of 15. I am not granting bail, Judge Staines said.

The accused, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has been remanded in custody until May 18 for sentencing. A victim impact statement is to be prepared.

The judge thanked the five women and seven men of the jury for the consideration they had given to a difficult case.

The guilty verdict they delivered was a majority 10-2 decision. They had deliberated throughout Friday when asked to consider a unanimous verdict.

The verdict was on one single count. The judge directed them to find him not guilty by direction of the trial judge on other counts on the indictment related to different dates. The count on which the accused was found guilty related to a time when the defendant was 19 and the complainant was around 11 or 12.

Evidence

The accused man gave evidence of his mother minding the complainant in their house but said he did not have much interaction with her  not one to one, we were like ships that pass in the night... I had very little interaction with her at all to be honest. He said that any time he was there when the complainant was also present, my mum would have been there on all occasions.

The complainant testified that he put his finger on her vagina. To that evidence, he said, Absolutely false. Incorrect. Further evidence from the complainant that he allegedly directed her to touch his penis, was put to him and he replied: I heard that yeah. 100% false.

On her evidence that he asked her to pull down her pants and that he pulled down his pants in front of her, he said: Again, totally false. The complainant said she was left alone with the accused when his mother (her child-minder) went to collect another child from school in the afternoon. The defendant said: It could not have happened in that period and it did never happen anyway. He also denied the allegation that he showed the child a pornographic picture of a naked man.

The complainant said that years later when she confronted him about the allegations she was making he allegedly told her she would never be believed. He said he did not say that and the conversation never happened.

A 'case of one person asserting and one denying'

Jane Hyland senior counsel represented the defendant and said: He is facing allegations from 21 years ago that could only have been witnessed by the complainant and the accused. It is a classic case of one person asserting and one denying. All he can do is say this did not happen.

And right from the beginning on May 20, 2018 when he was brought to the garda station he said it did not happen.

He has excavated his life to work out where he was during that timeframe  what kind of opportunity he had. If their paths crossed they could only have crossed for 20 or 30 minutes on a Thursday. He was studying or working (in a part-time job) or doing grinds, because this was a hardworking household.

Ms Hyland said all the defence could do was raise reasonable doubts about the prosecution case. She said that the account the complainant gave to her mother almost 20 years ago about what allegedly occurred was fundamentally different to the account she gave in the witness box, and that this should raise a reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.
High Court reporters

The High Court has refused to allow developer Hines, through a partner fund, to appeal to the Court of Appeal over a decision to quash planning permission for some 1,592 apartments in Drumcondra, north Dublin.

Last January, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys quashed An Bord Pleanalas permission, granted to fund CWTC Multi Family ICAV, for Hines to develop a 602 million build-to-rent scheme at the former Clonliffe College seminary campus.

In a ruling on Monday, he refused an application from CWTC, a notice party in the case against An Bord Pleanala, for permission to appeal to the Court of Appeal against his decision.

He noted the planning board did not seek to appeal the ruling made in the judicial review taken by Fionuala Sherwin, of Knocksinna Grove, Foxrock, Dublin.

CWTC sought to question, among other things, whether a particular section of the Planning and Development Act of 2010 covers the proposed demolition of any part of a protected structure. The judge said legislation already answers this question.

Even if the court found in favour of the developer in relation to its questions, the proposed appeal would be moot because the boards decision failed on other grounds in respect of which no leave to appeal was sought, he said.

In his ruling earlier this year, Mr Justice Humphreys said An Bord Pleanala failed to follow the required approach to assessing the developments impact on a protected structure.

There were some parts of the former Dublin diocesan seminary at Clonliffe, including striking brick arches, due for demolition that lie within the curtilage of protected structures, he added.

The judge also found An Bord Pleanala it did not sufficiently engage with Dublin City Councils serious concerns about how mature trees and the historic landscaping would be affected by a significant basement development.

The councils conservation officer recommended refusing the project due to the impact on the protected structures and the undesirability of a large subterranean structure, the judge noted.




Norwegian salmon exports up 21% year-on-year in April

Norway exported 81,498 tonnes of salmon in April 2023, valued at NOK 9.7 billion (~US$919 million; NOK 1 = US$0.095), up by NOK 1.7 billion (~US$161 million), or 21% year-on-year, Fish Information & Services reported.

The biggest markets for Norwegian salmon were Denmark, Poland, and France. Denmark had the highest value increase this month, with an increase in export value of NOK 440 million (~US$41 million), or 71%, over the same month last year.

The export volume to Denmark totaled 10,086 tonnes, up 49% from the same month last year.

Paul T Aandahl, seafood analyst with the Norwegian Seafood Council, said the largest transit market for Norwegian salmon is Denmark, adding that the fish is shipped to customers in Denmark before it goes on to other markets, primarily in the EU.

A quarter is destined for the German market. Other important markets for Norwegian salmon that pass through Denmark include Italy, the Netherlands, France, Spain, and Poland, he said.

He also said growth to Denmark offsets the decline in direct exports to these markets.

The export price for fresh whole salmon in April was NOK 113.60 (~US$10.76) per kg, which was NOK 3.98 (~US$0.38) per kg lower than the previous month's record. The price was 17% higher in comparison to the same month last year.

In April, Norway exported 2,739 tonnes of trout worth NOK 322 million (~US$30 million). When compared to April of last year, the export value increased by NOK 10 million (~US$947,000), or 3%. Export volume decreased by 21%.

The most important markets for trout for that month were the US, Thailand, and Ukraine. This month, Lithuania saw the greatest increase in value, with an increase in export value of NOK 18 million (~US$1.7 million) over the same month last year.

The export volume to Lithuania reached 219 tonnes, a 262% increase over the same month last year.

Fresh trout fillets cost NOK 152 (~US$14.40) per kg in April, NOK 4 more than the previous record month, March 2023.

- Fish Information & Services




Philippines eyes World Bank funding for more effective measures against animal diseases

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA) is seeking up to US$30 million in funding from the World Bank to improve measures for the prevention of animal diseases.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the agency was crafting a proposal to secure a fund for the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) Scale Up, which aimed to improve farmers and fishers' access to markets and increase their incomes.

De Mesa said the agency has already submitted an expression of interest to tap funds totaling US$25 million to US$30 million through the multilateral lender's US$300-million Pandemic Fund.

"It will focus on surveillance, improving biosecurity [measures] and laboratories and the response to animal diseases," he told reporters.

The PRDP Scale Up would bring a strategic shift through a greater emphasis on bringing transformative changes in value chains to improve farmers' and fisherfolks' profitability and enhance value chain efficiencies, according to a World Bank document detailing this initiative.

The PRDP concentrates on catalysing the start up, expansion and business orientation of micro to medium-scale agri-fishery enterprises, along with support for market access infrastructure.

The World Bank is currently soliciting bids for the first round of funding under the Pandemic Fund. It intends to help developing countries better prepare for and respond to future pandemics.

- Inquirer.net




Indonesia seeks alternative cattle suppliers, turns to Brazil for lower costs

Indonesia is seeking alternative cattle suppliers due to high prices for Australian cattle, and Brazil, the world's largest beef exporter, has promised to export live cattle at a lower cost, Financial Review reported.

Didiek Purwanto, chairman of the Indonesian Beef Farmers Joint Council, said all necessary regulations have been drafted, and the legal framework is nearly complete for importing cattle from Brazil.

For more than three decades, Australia has been the sole supplier of cattle to Indonesia, and the trade accounts for slightly more than half of Australia's live cattle exports, which totaled US$1.2 billion in 2021.

Mark Harvey-Sutton, chief executive officer of the Australian Livestock Exporters' Council, said the industry will rely on its reputation as a reliable supplier to withstand the new competitive threat.

He said Australia benefits from their proximity to Indonesia and the high quality of their product.

Indonesia's diversification plans accelerated in 2021, when prices for Australian cattle reached all-time highs as farmers kept stock on the farm to replenish numbers depleted during drought years.

Thousands of small farmers in Indonesia went bankrupt because they couldn't afford the high prices for feeder capital. The Indonesian industry petitioned the central government to allow foreign imports. Mexico was initially preferred, but Brazil was discovered to be more cost-effective.

Juan Permata Adoe, Kadin's vice-chairman of trade, said they used to import up to 600,000 cattle from Australia per year, but that has dropped to around 300,000, and the price is too high.

He said Brazilian cattle is cheaper despite being further way. Australia imports cost around US$3 per kilogramme, but from Brazil it will cost most likely between US$2.80 and US$2.70."

Brazil has recently expanded its beef trade in South-East Asia, shipping live cows to Vietnam and frozen beef to a variety of markets including Indonesia.

Previously, Indonesia's status as a foot and mouth disease-free country limited its trading partners to other FMD-free countries, such as Australia. However, an FMD outbreak in Indonesia last year changed that. Indonesia struggled to control the disease, which had a negative impact on the local economy.

Australian officials briefly suspended the live cattle export trade in 2011 due to concerns about animal mistreatment, mostly once the cattle arrived in Indonesia.

- Financial Review




More than 7% drop for Spain's pork and prepared product exports in Q1

Spain's pork and prepared product exports have decreased by more than 7% in the first quarter of 2023.

The country exported a total of 382,191 tonnes of pork and prepared pork products between January and March 2023, a decrease of 7.4% compared to the same period last year when 412,822 tonnes were exported.

Exports to China, the leading destination, showed a slight increase of 1% over the same period of the previous year (166,264 tonnes versus 164,549 tonnes). Exports to Japan increased by 19%, going from 50,791 tonnes to 60,195 tonnes.

Shipments to the Philippines and South Korea fell by 24% and 26%, respectively.

- Pig333




Food agency dismisses report that claims Singapore ready to bring in pig carcasses from Indonesia's Bulan Island

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has on May 7 refuted an Indonesian media report that Singapore is "ready" to import pig carcasses from Bulan Island, Batam, Indonesia, where African swine fever (ASF) had been detected.

The Antara report cited the director-general for animal husbandry and health at Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry, Dr. Nasrullah, as saying that SFA had "expressed their readiness to import pig carcasses", following a virtual meeting between the Singapore agency and Indonesia's National Veterinary Authority in April.

In a Facebook post, SFA said "Singapore does not allow the import of carcasses or slaughtered animals which are diseased", and it has not received or approved any application from Indonesian abattoirs for the export of pig carcasses and pork to Singapore.

"The Singapore authorities would only consider such applications once the ASF issue has been resolved," SFA added.

The agency highlighted that meat and meat products can be imported into Singapore only from accredited sources that comply with the country's requirements.

"Singapore's import conditions for pigs, pork and pork products are based on science, and take reference from guidelines and standards from the World Organisation for Animal Health," said SFA.

Earlier in April, a consignment of live pigs sent to Singapore from a farm on Bulan Island was confirmed to have been infected with ASF after the animals were slaughtered for food at an abattoir in Jurong.

This was the first time ASF had been detected in pigs imported into Singapore.

SFA then stopped the import of live pigs from Bulan Island, which accounts for about 15% of Singapore's total pork supply. This makes up about two-thirds of the city-state's supply of freshly slaughtered pork.

- The Straits Times




Permitted raw material for producing fish feed could help stabilise Philippines' aquaculture production, according to ex-official

The Philippines' admission of a pork-based raw material used in producing fish feed is expected to lead to a normalisation of aquaculture production after the raw material was subject to a temporary import ban, a former fisheries official said.

"The non-availability of this ingredient resulted in much decline in our production," according to Asis G. Perez, former director of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and convenor of advocacy group Tugon Kabuhayan.

The raw material is known as processed animal protein (PAP), an animal byproduct used in fish feed. The Department of Agriculture (DA) had banned PAP with the issue of Memorandum Order No. 5, Series of 2022 dated January 31 after a confirmed outbreak of African swine fever in Italy, a major PAP producer.

"We're happy that the government finally allowed it to come in; the only problem here is the delay," Perez added.

The DA lifted the ban on imports of processed porcine or pork-based meal for use in animal feed on December 28.

Perez noted that Italy accounts for 60%-70% of the Philippines' annual PAP imports of 150,000 tonnes. He said aquaculture is starting to recover with the arrival of PAP shipments in March.

"We are expecting there will be a correction from the previous decline. We are hoping that with the ingredients coming in, the productivity of aquaculture will increase again," he added.

Last year, the Philippines' aquaculture output rose 4.6% year on year to 2.35 million tonnes, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

However, some parts of the aquaculture industry registered declines.

- BusinessWorld
Isle of Man prepares to celebrate Coronation

Communities across the Isle of Man will come together this weekend to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III  Lord of Mann  and Queen Camilla.

Community events

A number of free events are taking place over the three days of official celebrations, including street parties, Biosphere Bee picnics, family fun days, fairs and live screenings of the Coronation. Legislative Buildings in Douglas will be specially lit over the weekend to mark the occasion.

More details on the events being held are available at https://coronation.gov.im/whats-on-locally/.

RAF fly-past

Four Texan T MK1 aircraft are scheduled to flyover Douglas at 5:11 pm on Saturday to mark the Coronation. The aircraft, from RAF Valleys 72(F) Squadron, are taking part in the flypast over Buckingham Palace. On their return to base, the aircraft will be fly over several locations, including the Isle of Man. The flypast is subject to weather conditions.

Island representation in London

The Lieutenant Governor His Excellency Lieutenant-General Sir John Lorimer and Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK will be in London for the Coronation. They will represent the Isle of Man, attending a reception at Buckingham Palace with the King and Queen this evening (Friday) and are invited guests for the Coronation at Westminster Abbey tomorrow (Saturday).

Representatives from the Isle of Man Constabulary, the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service, the Sea Cadets and St John Ambulance will also be in London.

Police officers PC Louise Kennaugh and DC Richard Hewitt, Leading Firefighter Amber Carridge, Governors Cadet Cerys Mudie and St John Ambulance volunteer Eddie Littlewood will line the processional route from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.

Souvenirs for historic occasion

Commemorative stamps and coins have been specially commissioned to mark the Coronation, offering a keepsake or souvenir for the historic occasion, with has constitutional significance for the Isle of Man. More information can be found at www.iompost.com/stamps-coins.
Entries invited for UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Awards

Individuals and organisations are invited to enter the 2023 UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Awards, which will celebrate the benefits of working together for a sustainable future.

A promotional video, featuring last years winners, Capital International (economy), One World Centre (education), Zurich Isle of Man (energy), Versa (enjoyment/engagement  this year two separate categories) and the Manx farming community/Agri-Environment Scheme (environment), can be watched here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-YVA4jA3ss

People can enter by sharing the details of a project or initiative they have delivered that promotes sustainability in one of six categories  economy, education, energy, engagement, enjoyment and environment.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture and Vice-chair of UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, said: The awards showcase and celebrate those doing good work right across our Biosphere. They hopefully encourage others to carry out similar innovative and impactful projects. Its free and easy to enter the awards and I encourage as many individuals and organisations as possible to get involved.

Entries can be made via the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man website. If anyone needs assistance entering, please contact the Biosphere team via Biosphere@gov.im or on 01624 686080. Entries must be received by 11 August 2023 and will be judged by a panel of experts on their innovation and impact.

Entrants will be invited to an awards ceremony in Douglas on 11 October, where all entries will receive a mention and the winners will be announced. Winners receive a trophy, a certificate and a special logo that can be used on promotional material.

The awards support UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Mans strategy Working Together for a Sustainable Future.
Stage-ed awarded festive Pantomime contract

For the next three years Stage-ed will produce and stage the Islands annual flagship Pantomime production at the Gaiety Theatre, as they are awarded the VillaGaiety 2023-25 contract.

Stage-ed hope to captivate audiences this Christmas announcing Aladdin as the festive production for 2023, with tickets going on sale this week.

Aladdin will be a classic and enchanting family-friendly pantomime. The creative team at Stage-ed hope to keep audiences spellbound with their magical retelling of the beloved story, complete with stunning sets, dazzling costumes and impressive special effects.

The show will run at the Gaiety Theatre from 16 to 31 December, with 22 performances including a relaxed performance on 28 December with a British Sign Language performer.

Steve Palfreman, Director, and co-founder of Stage-ed said: As a proud Manxman, I am thrilled to be able to produce this years pantomime at home! Stage-ed work all over the world with young people in both education and performance, so to be able to do this in the Isle of Man is extra special.

Stage-ed have been returning to the Island every year for the past 11 years to run a West End School in Ballakermeen High School, where Steve holds many fond memories of performing himself.

During those years Stage-ed have helped many young people on Island and across the world with building confidence and skills for performing on the stage, providing many opportunities for those young people, in performing on the stage either at their West End School or at the Musicals in Concert.
(Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante)

The leading data center operator submitted Iceland for the Tech Capital Location Award which aims to highlight geographical benefits to digital infrastructure investors.

REYKJAVIK, Iceland, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- atNorth the leading Nordic colocation, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence service provider, has announced today that their Iceland entry has been shortlisted for the Tech Capital Location Award, the only annual prize to recognize a geography for its attractiveness and investor friendly climate when dealing with digital infrastructure investors.

atNorth showcased the benefits of investing in Iceland in general, such as the abundance of natural resources and the fact that the energy produced is 100% generated by renewable sources, in addition to the stable political situation, circular economy principles, and ample connectivity prowess. As a result of these factors, Iceland has a reliable power supply and low energy costs, which makes it an ideal location for technology investment specifically. Furthermore, atNorth were able to demonstrate how pivotal Iceland's climate is for the cooling of high performance infrastructure by utilizing the example of their long standing client BNP Paribas that resulted in a 50% reduction in energy consumption, an 85% reduction in CO2 fooprint that ultimately lead to significant cost savings.

atNorth continues to promote Iceland and the rest of the Nordic region in general as best in class locations for their state of the art data centers. The company will continue to build additional sites in the region as part of their growth strategy to expand their services sustainably and strategically to support the increasing need for energy efficient, data-intensive computing.

"We are thrilled that our entry for Iceland has been shortlisted by the Tech Capital Awards but we are not surprised as the conditions in Iceland for digital infrastructure are extremely favourable," says Gisli Kr., Chief Sales Officer, at AtNorth. "As the demand for our services continues to grow we are delighted that one of our Nordic locations of choice has been recognized as an ideal location for tech investment and hope that this will encourage businesses to continue to make the most of its advantages."

More information on these awards can be found at the Tech Capital Award website ( https://thetechcapital.com/)

About atNorth

atNorth is a leading Pan-Nordic data center services company that offers sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable colocation and high-performance computing services across Iceland, Sweden and Finland. The company operates five data centers in strategic locations across the Nordics, with a sixth site to open in Akureyri, Iceland in Q2, 2023 and a seventh site to open in Finland in 2024.

With sustainability at its core, atNorth's data centers run on renewable energy resources and support circular economy principles. All atNorth sites leverage innovative design, power efficiency, and intelligent operations to provide long-term infrastructure and flexible colocation deployments. The tailor-made solutions enable businesses to calculate, simulate, train and visualize data workloads in an efficient, cost-optimized way.

atNorth is headquartered in Reykjavik, Iceland, and is trusted by industry-leading organizations to operate their most critical workloads. The business was founded in 2009 and acquired by Partners Group in 2022. For more information, visit atNorth.com or follow atNorth on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter.

Press Contacts

Caroline Brunton / Natalie PalfremanKite Hill PR for atNorth+44 (0) 7796 274416caroline@kitehillpr.com / natalie@kitehilllpr.com

The following files are available for download:

View original content: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/atnorth-announces-shortlist-selection-for-iceland-at-the-tech-capital-awards-301817966.html
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The building that served as the main law office for disgraced ex-lawyer Chris Pettit is under contract to be sold to a San Antonio-area company.

Hill Country Village-based Wugu LLC, whose principal is Serica Cuellar, a behavior analyst who owns A Balanced Child, has agreed to buy the property at 11902 Rustic Lane in San Antonio for $510,000.

The sale is subject to higher offers and requires approval from the judge overseeing Pettits bankruptcy cases. It has been listed for $529,000.

Pettit is jailed and awaiting a trial on charges that he stole tens of millions of dollars from his former law clients. He has pleaded not guilty.

PETTIT LITIGATION: Wells Fargo aided Chris Pettit in defrauding clients, suit says

He filed bankruptcy for himself and his law practice in June. Some $260 million in claims have been filed in the cases, primarily by ex-clients. About the same time as the Chapter 11 cases were filed, he surrendered his law license in lieu of discipline from the State Bar of Texas.

San Antonio attorney Eric Terry, the Chapter 11 trustee who has been disposing of Pettits assets for the benefit of his bankruptcy estate, filed court papers Thursday seeking a judges approval to sell the 3,100-square-foot office building on a roughly 0.8-acre lot on Rustic Lane. A hearing on the request is set for May 17.

Cuellar said if she succeeds in acquiring the property, she plans to relocate her business  a therapeutic office for children with autism  from its location in Hill Country Villlage.

We are going to turn it into a learning center for them, or at least thats the plan, she said.

The Rustic Lane property is an ideal location for A Balanced Child because of the schools nearby, Cuellar said. Those include William P. Hobby Middle School across the street and Shirley J. Howsman Elementary School. It has contracted with a school to provide behavioral support on campus.

Were trying to transition from a clinic-like setting on San Pedro Avenue in Hill Country Village to a more home-like, warm setting, she said. So therell be some pretty big transitions and remodels over the next year if we do, in fact, acquire the property.

The trustee reported receiving at least six offers on the Rustic Lane property.

Terry said he expects the property will generate net proceeds of about $487,000 for the bankruptcy estate after closing costs.

SIN REPOSO TRANSACTIONS: Some of the real estate that Chris Pettit transferred ahead of bankruptcy will be returned under deal

The property was among a handful that Pettit had transferred to Sin Reposo LLC prior to the bankruptcy filings as a way to raise cash.

Sin Reposo subsequently turned over the property and six others to the bankruptcy estate. As part of the settlement, the trustee will reimburse Sin Reposo for about $13,500 in carrying costs.

Another former Pettit law office building, at 13111 Huebner Road, was the subject of a bankruptcy court auction in March. The Ritu Ajmani Living Trust prevailed, outlasting one other bidder, a San Antonio doctor, with a bid of $2.54 million It had been listed for sale for $2.8 million.

Pettit is confined at the Karnes County Detention Facility. His criminal trial is set to start later this month, but his lawyer on Thursday asked the court for a 90-day continuance. Attorney Matthew T. Allen said in a court filing that he needs more time to review materials in the case and for negotiations with prosecutors on a possible plea to avoid a trial.
Some of the countrys best brands for social impact are headquartered in San Antonio, according to Forbes.

That would be H-E-B and USAA, ranked No. 3 and No. 8, respectively, in a new ranking by Forbes. The magazine partnered with HundredX, the Texas-based data and analytics company, to showcase the companies doing well at doing good.

The inaugural list, compiled from a survey of more than 100,000 consumers, ranked 300 brands. These companies were ranked overall from values and trust, social stances, sustainability and community support.

You might also like: Chris Pettit's former main law office building under contract to be sold to San Antonio-area company

The companies that align their brand values with their business stand out, HundredX CEO Rob Pace told Forbes. It is the second-highest driver of any of the hundreds of business drivers we track in terms of influencing a future purchase decision. The only thing that predicts your behavior more is how the food tastes at a restaurant.

Grocery stores performed well in the ranking. Behind H-E-B, Trader Joes ranked No. 4 and Publix No. 7.

One respondent said of H-E-B: I will choose to shop there over the stores already here because of their awesome community support and involvement  especially how they show up after natural disasters.

The chain has become known for its logistical prowess  in responding to the coronavirus pandemic, to hurricanes and to the 2021 deadly winter storm with stockpiles of water and emergency supplies.

Financial services institution USAA earned praise for serving military members, veterans and their families.

They truly serve and go (the) extra mile to help military and family, even when they are overseas, one respondent wrote. Most other insurance companies will not support you overseas.

The two top companies to make Forbes list are REI and Subaru.

timothy.fanning@express-news.net
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Standing next to Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday in South Texas, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that after it begins production in 2025, his companys lithium refinery would produce enough of the material for batteries in about 1 million electric vehicles a year.

But the potential is there to expand beyond that number as needed, he said.

Musk was joined by Abbott at the site of the $375 million plant thats under construction at Robstown. Sitting next to a Tesla Cybertruck  a model thats to begin production this year at the companys Austin factory  the governor praised Musk for his vision, hard work and commitment to the facility.

Texas wants to be able to increase our ability to refine lithium, Abbott said. You have taken that step with this project that today is coming to reality. Texas is going to be more self-reliant today than we were yesterday because of the leadership right here in Nueces County.

TEXAS EXPANSION: Heading toward Cybertruck, Tesla triples employment and builds 4,000 Model Ys a week in Texas

Musk has been focused on increasing his companys supply of lithium hydroxide  a key component in the batteries that power EVs  as he pushes to increase Tesla production. Calling for more refining capacity last July, Musk promised entrepreneurs who stepped up that it would be as lucrative as basically minting money.

Monday, he said his companys own refinery near Corpus Christi would produce more battery grade lithium than the rest of North American refinery capacity combined. There are five such plants now operating in the U.S. and more being developed, but most of the worlds production is outside the U.S.

Gesturing to heavy machinery moving dirt behind him, Musk said construction would be complete next year and production would begin in 2025.

Even then, Tesla will continue to rely on other suppliers of lithium, he said, but the refinery is meant to counteract a fundamental chokepoint in the advancement of electric vehicles.

Tesla has said its aiming to sell 20 million vehicles by 2030. That would be a significant jump from 1.3 million in 2022, which represented a 40 percent growth in global deliveries from the previous year. The company currently builds and sells four models: the S, X, 3 and Y. Its attempting to ramp up production at its Austin factory as well as factories in Freemont, Calif., Berlin and Shanghai.

Kathleen Hogan, an infrastructure official at the Department of Energy, said the South Texas project would make Tesla a leader on building out the nations clean energy supply chain.

It really means, as we look more holistically across the country, a secure domestic supply chain as we move out on this clean energy economy and really secure energy future nationally, she said.

RELATED: Tesla breaks ground on lithium refinery near Corpus Christi, starts expansion at Texas factory

The governor and Tesla called the event a ground breaking, but work on the site began more than two months ago.

Drew Baglino, Teslas senior vice president of powertrain and energy engineering, said March 1 that the company had already broken ground on the operation. Aerial images of the site this week suggest groundwork has been done.

Monday's event was closed, and neither Abbott nor Musk took questions later.

For years, though, the governor has expressed support for Musk moving his business operations into Central and South Texas. In addition to Tesla, which moved to Austin in 2021, they include SpaceX, Starlink, The Boring Co. and Neuralink. All have growing operations in the region.

When Tesla moved to Texas, Abbott addressed the company in a tweet, saying: The Lone Star State is the land of opportunity and innovation. Welcome.

RELATED: Musk knows whats up, Gov. Abbott says. But the chief execs of Texas and Tesla dont always agree

The governor also chimed in when Musk threw his Cyber Rodeo event announcing the official opening of Teslas $1 billion Gigafactory Texas in April 2022: Two years ago, I told @elonmusk that Texas moves at the speed of business. Tonight, @Tesla officially opens their new Gigafactory in Austin. This mile-long Gigafactory was built in just under a year and a half. Only possible in the Lone Star State.

That same month, the governor urged Musk to bring Twitter to Texas months before he made the $44 billion acquisition in October.

Monday, he continued to laud Musk.

There is no greater entrepreneur in the world than Elon Musk, he said. Were proud that he calls Texas home.
The legacy of San Antonio artist Jesse Trevino, who died in February, will be explored Wednesday in a free panel discussion titled Su Vida y Arte.

The talk takes place at 6 p.m. at the Central Library, 600 Soledad. Trevinos mural Mi Vida, a biographical work that he painted on the wall of his home, is on loan to the library.

Courtesy Department of Arts and

Trevino painted Mi Vida after he returned to San Antonio following his military service in Vietnam. Three months into his tour, he had been shot by a sniper then stumbled into a booby trap. He lost a lot of blood, nearly lost his leg, and lost the use of his right arm. Six months after his right arm was amputated, he began working on the piece, which includes a Purple Heart hanging from a prosthetic hand and a capsule of the painkiller Darvocet.

On ExpressNews.com: Jesse Trevino obituary

He went on to create some of the citys best-known public art pieces, including The Spirit of Healing, a 93-foot-tall mural he completed in 1997 on the side of Santa Rosa Childrens Hospital, since renamed the Childrens Hospital of San Antonio; and La Veladora, a three-dimensional, 40-foot-tall mural depicting a votive candle bearing the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe that is on the side of the Guadalupe Theater.

The panel discussion will include newsman Randy Beamer, a close friend of Trevinos who is working on a documentary about him; artist Cesar Martinez, a contemporary of Trevinos who also is a veteran; Anthony Head, author of Spirit: The Life and Art of Jesse Trevino; and Gabriel Quintero Velasquez, president/CEO of the Avenida Guadalupe Association.

It will be moderated by Ellen Riojas Clark, a professor emeritus at the University of Texas at San Antonio and a close friend of Trevinos.

It is being presented by the citys Department of Arts & Culture and the San Antonio Public Library.

dlmartin@express-news.net | @DeborahMartinEN
A Run for More, a documentary about Frankie Gonzales-Wolfes 2019 attempt to become the first openly transgender person elected in Texas, has layers of meaning for its subject.

And shes hoping other trans people who run for office will find meaning in it, too.

There is no manual for trans people for how to run for office, said Gonzales-Wolfe, who had been involved behind the scenes in politics for decades before running for the District 8 seat on the San Antonio City Council. I learned that firsthand. Its not the same.

So this video is kind of like the manual for people to see what I did, what I did right and what I did wrong. And to use that as part of their way of making their run for office just a little easier.

Director Ray Whitehouses film is airing at 10 p.m May 16 on KLRN as part of the Reel South documentary series. It also will stream at pbs.org.

The movie captures Gonzales-Wolfes unsuccessful campaign, including her frustration with her identity being more of an issue for some people than actual problems in the area. In one scene, she crafts an email response to a constituent.

He said he was willing to give me the support if I was willing, when I go to the dais, to leave me being transgender at the door, she said. In my head, I was like, would you ask a cisgender woman that? 'Dont be a woman when you get to the dais?'

Thats what was so different. We have to be able to maneuver through the same obstacle course, just with more obstacles in our way.

On ExpressNews.com: What would SB 14 mean for transgender kids in Texas?

A Run for More has been screened at more than 30 film festivals, including San Antonios CineFestival. There also have been dozens of community screenings across the country presented in partnership with organizations that advocate for transgender and nonbinary people.

In Texas, with the anti-trans legislation that is being proposed and passed over the last 10 years, that sort of backdrop has brought some of the issues that we talk about in the film more resonance and more timeliness, said Whitehouse, a former Express-News photo intern. When I started working on the film, I could have never really pictured that.

Hes hoping that the PBS screening will spark more discussions about the importance of representation.

Just a few framing statistics: There are more than 500,000 elected officials in the United States. There are fewer than 100 transgender elected officials in the United States, he said. So transgender people have largely been shut out of the legislative process. And I think thats part of the conversation were trying to have.

A Run for More

In addition to capturing some big moments in Gonzales-Wolfes personal life, including her wedding, the film shows her everyday life, including cooking and watching the Miss USA pageant. Those moments, she said, help counter anti-trans narratives.

The film also shows some moments of self-discovery that grew out of her campaign. When she decided to run, she said, she simply wanted a seat at the table where decisions are made.

Speaking to my trans brothers and sisters, they were the ones who said, 'You already have a seat, youre just not utilizing your voice,'" she said. Meaning, they couldnt just open a door to a congressmans office or a state reps office and start having a conversation, where I could. Because they knew who I was.

On ExpressNews.com: Drag show performers defiant in face of political opposition

That made her start thinking about how important representation is at every level of government, including staffing.

These people who were my friends, that I was electing to office, I started looking into their offices, and I was like, oh, my lord, you wanted our vote, we gave it to you, we were an asset to you when you needed the vote, but then we became a liability because you did not hire us. We are not in your offices, she said. That is where I felt I could start to make a change.

Gonzales-Wolfe managed Rebeca Clay-Flores' successful campaign for Bexar County Commissioners Court in 2020 and now serves as her chief of staff.

Equality Texas, an advocacy group for LGBTQ Texans, has no record of any other openly trans people serving as chiefs of staff in the state.

I felt like, heres my opportunity to start knocking down walls from the inside out, while my trans brothers and sisters were knocking down the walls from the outside in, and we are just going to meet in the middle so much faster, Gonzales-Wolfe said. Now, I dont want to just fit in. I take up oxygen. I am a very proud trans woman, working in government. Like it or not, Im not going anywhere.

She does see things starting to change in the city, and was heartened by the election of Jalen McKee-Rodriguez. He was the first openly gay man to serve on City Council, and he just won a second term.

She intends to run for office again someday. She just has to figure out precisely where she might do the most good.

Shes been buoyed by conversations that shes had with trans people across the country as part of screenings of the film.

It gives me hope that we have an opportunity, that we are no longer staying silent, that we are taking up more oxygen in the room and that we are becoming part of the conversation, which is the reason why I think theres so much anti-trans legislation that has now come up, she said. For me, its been truly inspiring, and I credit all of it to Ray for allowing the opportunity to lend my voice to the cause.
A San Antonio man was arrested Saturday on suspicion of fatally shooting a woman in a West Side motel last week.

Police charged Albert Casanova Jr., 39, with murder in connection with the death of 31-year-old Briann Merina Hernandez. His bail was set at $200,000.

ALSO READ: Police: Suspect spent hours with two teens before they were killed at East Side motel

A hotel manager at the OYO Hotel on Southwest Loop 410 found Hernandez dead in her room on May 3 when the manager went to conduct the checkout procedure, according to an affidavit supporting Casanovas arrest. Hernandez had been shot once in the head.

Police found a spent shell casing by the front door.

Video surveillance shows Hernandez and Casanova arrive together at the OYO Hotel the day before in Hernandezs vehicle, according to the affidavit. The video shows Hernandez renting the room and the two going inside with several bags.

ALSO READ: Shooting at East Side motel leaves suspected stalker dead

Two hours after they arrive, Casanova is seen hastily leaving the room carrying at least one bag. He drives away from the hotel in Hernandezs vehicle.

Police did not say how the two knew each other or what led to the shooting.
Texas Department of Public Safety

The Texas Department of Public Safety issued an Amber Alert on Monday morning for a San Antonio teenager who was abducted from the North Side residence near Reagan High School.

Juelz Robinson, 14, was last seen in the 900 block of Classen Pass on May 1. It is unclear why it took authorities a week to issue the Amber Alert.
As a child, Louis Geer moved from school to school as his family joined his father, retired Air Force Col. Mike Geer, on military assignments.

In every move, his parents supported his interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

They always encouraged me to pursue different opportunities at wherever school I attended, Louis, 18, said. That kind of shaped my worldview.

He maintained top grades in science and math at bases in Korea, the Netherlands, and Texas. When his father retired in San Antonio, Louis joined an academic club at BASIS San Antonio Shavano. He was surprised to learn he was behind top scorers in state math and science competitions.

Louis rebounded. He tapped into his military upbringing and ability to adapt to new cultures. Louis studied Algebra 2 over the summer and took an online honors chemistry class to get ahead and on pace with his Science Bowl team.

The teen focused that same energy on helping youth in his new community. He founded the San Antonio Book Pool, which gives books to students in low-income neighborhoods. Since the pandemic, Louis and a dozen of his friends have collected more than 7,000 books.

READ MORE: Tile artist  whose work is featured across San Antonio  wins national award

As a result of his work, Louis has been named Operation Homefronts 2023 Military Child of the Year for the Air Force. Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit, helps military families with short-term difficulties, financial assistance and family support programs.

His mother, Hyunah Lim, received a phone call from the organization and shared the good news with her son.

After it set in, I was pretty ecstatic, Louis said.

This is the 15th year the nonprofit has honored youth who have impacted their schools, military families and communities. Louis was one of seven honorees representing the nations military branches: the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force Coast Guard, National Guard and Space Force.

The seven recipients were among 35 finalists. A panel of judges chose the teens for their leadership, volunteerism, and extracurricular activities while dealing with the challenges of military family life. Each recipient received $10,000, a laptop, and other donated gifts.

According to Operation Homefront, the recipients logged 1,661 volunteer hours in 12 months before their nominations. Retired Air Force Brig. Gen. John I. Pray Jr., president and CEO of Operation Homefront, applauded the youths commitment to their communities.

Military children shoulder the myriad of challenges of the military with a positive spirit and strength, building the character and resilience needed in our nations future leaders, Pray said in a release. In recognizing this years Military Child of the Year award recipients, we honor the more than two million amazing military kids who serve alongside their families and strengthen our communities with their dedication and service.

His achievements include being a state champion in science and physics competitions, a three-time presidential volunteer service award recipient and the highest-ranking graduate at his school.

READ MORE: Rukus gave up her life to save mine: Formerly homeless woman credits dog, angels for her recovery

The teen is a competitive classical pianist who has received several music awards for his performances and compositions. An upright piano in his bedroom is where Louis unwinds. Its a time when his creativity shines, practicing classical music and improvising melodies.

Louis, an Eagle Scout with Troop 501, continued his literary outreach by creating a Little Free Library as his service project. Previously read books on shelves in his home sparked the idea for both reading initiatives.

I realized that all the books could be used by other people, Louis said. If we can get books from people who dont need them anymore and get them to those who could use them, that would be a great help to people and children from 5 to 18 years old.

Louis and his friends drove collected books to Bobbies Cafe on the South Side, where the kitchen cabinet-sized box is located. They stored 700 books in a shed to keep the wooden book box well stocked.

If the senior has a guiding principle, it comes from his favorite book, Slaughterhouse-Five, by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. He summed up the novels message as living in your own moment, changing what you believe in and what you can change.

Its a belief that informs Louis plan to contribute to the betterment of society. After graduation, hes heading to his next frontier  studying at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

READ MORE: Her dream job: New Braunfels teacher wears costumes to greet students each morning

Until then, he can be found studying late at night in his bedroom.

The familys dog, Bernie, is there resting by his chair, keeping him company. Maintaining academic excellence has been a constant through all of the moves, leaving friends, and learning new customs in new locales.

Louis said he is eternally grateful to his parents, countless teachers and people who guided him on a path to excel and help others. It is his creed.
Mayor Ron Nirenberg and nearly all sitting City Council members are returning to office.

For the first time over the last decade, the District 2 council member won re-election. Jalen McKee-Rodriguez held on to his seat despite facing nine challengers. Races with several candidates are often recipes for runoffs.

McKee-Rodriguez made history two years ago as the first openly gay man elected to the council and was one of the youngest ever to serve.

His opponents cast McKee-Rodriguez as out of touch with District 2 residents and their needs, but voters ultimately backed him in Saturday's election, with 56 percent of the vote. His closest competitor was Denise Gutierrez, who brought in 15 percent.

District 2 on the East Side has the most turnover of the councils 10 districts. McKee-Rodriguez, a 28-year-old former high school math teacher, is the seventh person to hold the office since 2014.

In 2021, McKee-Rodriguez ousted first-term incumbent Jada Andrews-Sullivan  whom he had previously accused of harassment and discrimination  in a runoff.

On ExpressNews.com: Prop A trounced as votes come in

The controversial Proposition A, also called the San Antonio Justice Charter, has been a major issue throughout this years election. It would have decriminalized abortion and marijuana, expanded cite-and-release and banned some policing techniques. It also would have created a city justice director to oversee the implementation of the policy changes.

Voter resoundingly rejected Prop A on Saturday, with nearly 72 percent saying no.

McKee-Rodriguezs unwavering support for the charter amendment had opened him up to backlash from challengers and critics. He said the ballot initiative mirrored his own beliefs and that it would benefit East Side residents.

When he ran for the seat in 2021, his mailers highlighted his support for making cite-and-release a permanent city policy, decriminalizing small amounts of marijuana and increasing police accountability.

Several incumbents held onto their seats with sizable majorities.

Nirenberg skated into his fourth and final term, winning the race against eight challengers with 61 percent of the vote.

If he serves out his full fourth term, Nirenberg will tie Henry Cisneros, who was in office from 1981 to 1989, as the citys longest-serving mayor.

He has focused largely on workforce development, affordable housing and climate change mitigation but has faced criticism from progressives over the limited results the initiatives have yielded. Ready to Work, a taxpayer-funded city job training initiative launched a year ago, is falling short of its first-year target goals.

Still, Nirenberg brought in more campaign contributions than any other candidate in the city election. He raised about $120,000 from March 28 through April 26. In those final days of his campaign, Nirenberg spent nearly $265,000 and ended April with roughly $185,000 on hand.

Phyllis Viagran, 50, is a first-term District 3 councilwoman who barely won her first re-election bid against three challengers, securing 51 percent of the vote. In 2021, she was one of a dozen people trying to fill the then-open Southeast Side seat that had previously been held by her sister.

Adriana Rocha Garcia, the first woman to represent the Southwest Side District 4, faced only one competitor in her bid for a third term. She won with 75 percent of the vote.

Teri Castillo was one of 11 candidates vying for the open seat for District 5 in 2021, but as she sought her first re-election bid, she drew only two challengers. One of them was a familiar face, though  Rudy Lopez, who also ran in 2021 but lost to Castillo in a runoff.

In mailers, Lopez blamed Castillo for a February dog attack that killed an 81-year-old man on Depla. He highlighted the 156 calls to the citys 911 and 311 lines about the dogs and their owners in the three years leading up to the Feb. 24 mauling. But Castillo said she and her staff had no knowledge of the problem until after the tragedy.

On ExpressNews.com: Mario Bravo lags behind education consultant Sukh Kaur. Districts 1 and 7 are headed for runoffs.

Castillo won Saturday night with 63 percent of the vote.

District 6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda faced half as many challengers in her bid for a third term as she did in 2021. Both challengers  Chris Baecker and Irina Rudolph  went up against Cabello Havrda two years ago, but neither came close to unseating her on election day. She ended the night with 54 percent of the votes.

Cabello Havrda, 48, chairs the council's public safety committee. In the early 2000s, Cabello Havrda served as a special projects manager for then-Mayor Ed Garza.

With 70 percent of the vote, District 8 councilman Manny Pelaez easily won his fourth and final term representing this Northwest Side district. He faced a lone challenger, Cesario Garcia, who tried to unseat the councilman in 2021.

Pelaez, 49, is an attorney. He was first elected to the District 8 seat in 2017. Pelaez chairs the council's economic and workforce development and intergovernmental relations committees.

Once a perennial candidate, District 9 Councilman John Courage is a liberal Democrat who has represented the traditionally conservative North Side district for six years and won a fourth and final term on the council with 62 percent of the vote Saturday.

He won out over three candidates, including Jarrett Lipman, a Republican who moved into the district in an effort to unseat Courage.

Courage, 71, is an Air Force veteran and former teacher who chairs two council committees: audit and accountability and municipal utilities.

He has focused on safeguarding the citys water supply, creating and increasing the citys homestead tax exemption and securing funding for the districts first senior center.

Staff writer Molly Smith contributed to this report.
Texans are witnessing one of the most extreme, authoritarian and discriminatory legislative sessions in years.

Bills moving through the Legislature would make Texas law dramatically more anti-immigrant; radically reduce the power of local governments, courts and prosecutors; diminish, criminalize and encourage interference with voting rights; and even impose extreme authoritarian views about what can be taught in classrooms and books that can be read in school libraries.

These proposals are the product of racially gerrymandered districts where officials can advance legislation attacking the communities they are supposed to represent.

For example, House Bill 2127 is a radical measure that denies local governments the power to make policy on a range of issues critical to their communities.

Other bills target local court jurisdiction and district attorneys prosecutorial discretion. They create specialty courts to handle big business cases or claims against the state, with judges appointed by the governor or elected statewide. This would take power away from local, elected officials and give it to a narrow, dominant statewide political authority.

In the latest round of attacks on Texas immigrants, House Bill 20 and Senate Bill 147 are blatant violations of constitutional rights. House Bill 20 extends the authority to question an individuals citizenship, not only for professional law enforcement but also for a governor-appointed Unit Chief. Senate Bill 147 unconstitutionally limits the property rights of Asian Americans and individuals from certain countries, including China, who are legally in the United States.

There is also a multitiered effort to subvert our elections process and the promise of a healthy, multiethnic democracy. Bills would subvert the will of voters, grant authority to the secretary of state to effectively cancel elections, require proof of citizenship to register to vote or establish an election police force to weaponize the states resources against the people of Texas, and legislate into existence a system ripe for abuse and voter intimidation.

Multiple bills that would eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion policies have been proposed. Unmasked, these bills are racially biased and rooted in the rhetoric of white supremacy. As a practical matter, they ignore the important economic contributions of people of color and fail to recognize the potential business backlash that could come from elimination of those policies.

All of these legislative proposals seek to advance changes in law that are profoundly antithetical to fundamental American values. We should be promoting local government, not diminishing it. We should be making voting fair and open, not harder and restrictive. A country of immigrants should be welcoming, not threatening.

When district lines are drawn to dilute the voting power of citizens in many communities, it is inevitable that we end up with a Legislature dominated by narrowly focused and radically biased legislators.

It is our fervent hope that by exposing the outrageous nature of these proposals, more people will speak out and stand up against these measures

Carmela Walker is the program coordinator and advocacy specialist for Houston Area Urban League. David Jones is president of Clean Elections Texas. Lydia Ozuna is president of Texans Against Gerrymandering.
Re: Harris County elections targeted by GOP, Front Page, May 3:

The article illustrates the punitive and cruel nature of Republican-led legislative sessions.

In 2021 they passed Senate Bill 1 (restrictive voting measures) and Senate Bill 8 (six-week abortion ban) and this session continues the practice.

Allowing the governor-appointed Secretary of State to overturn an election based on problems in a recent election is anti-democratic. Why not offer assistance in some form?

Restricting health care for transgender youth, ending countywide voting and mandating the Ten Commandments are just several of the recent bills.

Someday, voters will finally get fed up and vote them out. It cant come soon enough.

Barbara Moschner

Lack of accountability

I find it very ironic that DPS officers removed the pro-transgender protesters in the House gallery, but hundreds of law enforcement officers (including DPS officers) could not, or would not, remove one gunman from Robb Elementary.

My point has nothing to do with transgender issues, but instead focuses on the lack of accountability for the officers who waited 77 minutes at Robb Elementary and the state legislators who refuse to accept that there is a tremendous gun death problem in this state and across the nation. A recent poll showed more than 70 percent of Texas residents, regardless of party affiliation, are in favor of increasing the age from 18 to 21 for certain types of gun ownership.

Are they so scared of losing campaign donations and endorsements from gun groups to do whats right and actually listen to the majority of their constituents?

Mike Wohlfarth, New Braunfels

Carrying is also dangerous

There is no doubt that assault rifles pose a great danger to the general public!

But after the attacks on Kyle Rittenhouse (who was carrying an assault-style rifle during a protest in Kenosha, Wis.) and the killing of Garrett Foster (who was also carrying an assault-style rifle during a protest in Austin), I would like to point out that assault rifles also pose a great danger to those who carry them into public places.

Dont provoke a confrontation, its best to leave your assault rifle at home. If you think you really need protection in public, non-lethal types of protection are available.

James Duderstadt
Days after President Joe Biden announced that he would send additional troops to the U.S. border, Gov. Greg Abbott responded by staging his own show of military force for a Fox News television audience Monday to highlight that hes sending more troops to the border, too, but not in coordination with the White House.

At a news conference on a runway in Austin, troops were positioned to march behind Abbott toward National Guard transport planes as he made the announcement. Abbott said he's sending more advanced troops to the border than Bidens call-ups, who are just doing paperwork.

What were focused on is trying to stop people coming across the border illegally, Abbott said as the jet engines from the aircraft drowned out portions of his speech.

Then Abbott took a few questions from the Texas media before stepping away for a live one-on-one interview on Fox News from the runway with soldiers and transport planes in the background.

Abbott told Fox News host Brian Kilmeade that hes created a new Texas Tactical Border Force made up of elite National Guard troops ahead of what is expected to be another surge of asylum-seekers from Central and South America as a health policy, called Title 42, is lifted Thursday. Both the Trump and Biden administrations have used Title 42 to turn away millions of migrants at the border.

Watch the latest video at foxnews.com

Last week, the White House announced plans to send 1,500 more U.S. National Guard members to the border to join an additional 2,500 already there. White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said last week that the new soldiers will do data entry, warehouse support and other administrative tasks so U.S. Customs and Border Protection can focus on fieldwork ahead of Title 42 expiring.

The troops will not be performing law enforcement functions or interacting with immigrants, or migrants, Jean-Pierre said last week. This will free up Border Patrol agents to perform their critical law enforcement duties.

While Abbott and Biden both have now deployed thousands of troops, the Republican governor said the White Houses focus is all wrong.

The goal of the president is not to stop people from coming across the border illegally, Abbott said.

He told Kilmeade that the specialized units hes sending are looking for secret routes migrants might be using and shut them down. In addition, he said his units will look for ways to repel migrants by denying them access into the United States and placing razor wire to block their entry.

The Texas National Guard said Monday that it activated 545 service members at locations around Texas to reinforce the border mission in anticipation of the end of Title 42 immigration restrictions.

When asked about coordinating with the U.S. National Guard so they aren't getting in each other's way, Abbott sounded unconcerned.

"Theres not going to be any entanglements ... whatsoever between the Texas troops and what the president's deploying because the president is not going to have his troops down there trying to secure the border," Abbott said.

When Abbott first arrived at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, more than 100 troops were stationed off to the side in a grassy area where they waited until the news conference began. With cameras rolling, they then crossed behind Abbott as he spoke.
Democrats and relatives of Texas mass shooting victims lambasted the states GOP leaders over the weekend after they again rejected gun restrictions in the wake of another massacre.

RELATED: Uvalde parents react to Nashville school shooting: Have yall had enough yet?

A gunman wielding what appeared to be an assault-style rifle killed eight people on Saturday afternoon at Allen Premium Outlets, a mall in a suburb about 20 miles north of Dallas. He injured seven others, three of whom are in critical condition. The victims included children as young as 3.

The shooting occurred just about a week after sheriffs deputies in San Jacinto County reported that a lone gunman armed with an AR-15-style weapon killed five people at his neighbors house.

Republicans expressed grief over the mall shooting, offering prayers and condolences to families who lost loved ones. They praised law enforcement for responding and killing the shooter quickly, but they did not address the weapon he used.

"They don't have any answers to this, said Manuel Rizo, who lost his 9-year-old niece, Jacklyn Jackie Cazares, in last years mass shooting at a Uvalde elementary school.

The attack at Robb Elementary was also carried out by a lone gunman armed with an assault-style rifle. The shooter bought his gun days after he turned 18, prompting calls from victims families to raise the age for purchasing the weapons in Texas. Republican state lawmakers have declined.

They're just going to ignore the facts, issue their thoughts and prayers, go through their checklist and hope that this goes away, Rizo said.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told a Fox News host on Sunday that mental health was to blame for the horrors, and shootings are happening both in blue states with strict gun laws and red states with easier access.

He said the Texas Legislature is considering bills to increase penalties for people who possess guns illegally, but he did not express interest in any of the gun control measures that Democrats and advocates have been championing over the past year.

BACKGROUND: Uvalde shooting may spur action in Texas Legislature  with one big exception

We are working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause, which is addressing the mental health problems behind it, Abbott said. People want a quick solution. The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

Texas, which ranked the worst in the nation for mental health care in a recent study, is funneling millions into mental health services this legislative session.

Abbott and Texas Republican leaders called for similar measures after a gunman killed 10 people at Santa Fe High School in 2018.

While family members from Uvalde and Santa Fe welcome the extra mental health funding, they say its not a solution that will prevent future mass shootings. They have been traveling to the Capitol almost every week for the past five months to advocate for stricter gun laws.

The common denominator here is an AR-15 in a public place, Rizo said. We're not safe anymore, anywhere that we go.

The relatives top priority is raising the age to purchase an assault-style weapon from 18 to 21, but they also support stronger background checks, mandatory waiting periods for purchases and red flag laws that allow judges to temporarily remove firearms from a person deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Those are all popular policies among Texas voters  even Republicans, polling shows.

The Uvalde families waited more than 13 hours last month to testify before a House committee on the raise-the-age bill. Monday afternoon, lawmakers unexpectedly brought it up for a committee vote, the final day to do so. It passed 8-5, with Republican Reps. Sam Harless of Spring and Justin Holland of Rockwall joining all six Democrats on the committee to advance the measure.

The bill faces an uphill battle in the Legislature, where many Republicans view any effort to restrict gun access as an infringement of Second Amendment Rights. Still, Monday's vote was a small victory for the families who have fought for months to advance it.

They rallied again Monday morning with more than 100 gun violence prevention advocates, who chanted not one more and raise the age in the Capitol rotunda. They then held a press conference with state Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a San Antonio Democrat who represents Uvalde, and other Democrats who support raising the age.

We cannot allow this to be the reality for our families and loved ones, Gutierrez said of the Allen shooting. We are going to keep seeing more and more of these incidents until Republicans decide to listen to the will of the voters and pass common-sense gun legislation that keeps guns out of the hands of these killers.

cayla.harris@hearst.com
State Rep. Bryan Slaton stepped down Monday under pressure from conservative groups after the release of a House report that found he had sex with a 19-year-old legislative aide and gave her alcohol.

LATEST: House panel calls for expulsion of Texas Rep. Bryan Slaton, accused of inappropriate sexual conduct

The announcement came just a day before the House was set to vote on his expulsion, as an investigating committee had recommended.

The Royse City Republican and former youth minister did not respond to the report's findings in his resignation letter, but he said he was leaving in order to "ensure that (voters') expectations will continue to be met by a new representative who will also work hard on their behalf."

"I am grateful to my many colleagues who fought with me to improve our state for all Texans, and to those who, even when we could not agree, extended their friendship," Slaton said in his letter to the governor. "I look forward to spending more time with my young family, and will continue to find ways to serve my community and all citizens across our great state."

State Rep. Andrew Murr, R-Junction, who chairs the investigating committee, said in a statement Monday that he will still call a vote for Slaton's expulsion, as "he is considered to be an officer of this state until a successor is elected and takes the oath of office."

A number of state representatives and conservative groups, including a majority of State Republican Executive Committee members with the Texas GOP, had called on Slaton to step down. The Texas GOP chair Matt Rinaldi had declined to comment, saying he was waiting for the House to deliberate. He issued a statement Monday.

"These actions have betrayed the trust that the people of Representative Slatons district put in him as an elected official, and he has rightly resigned," Rinaldi said. "We are encouraged that this investigation signals that the House has entered a new era of accountability where all members will be held to the same fair and high standards.

The report detailed how Slaton grew close to the aide and invited her to his condo one night and offered her and other Capitol staffers alcoholic drinks. Interviews showed he had sex with her that night, then later pressured her and other staffers to stay quiet about the incident.

According to the Texas Constitution, the governor must call a special election within 20 days after a vacancy.

Jasper Scherer contributed to this report.

taylor.goldenstein@houstonchronicle.com
The claim: Joe Biden was older on his first day as president than Ronald Reagan was on his last day, Martin said April 30. Hes not going to escape the age issue.  Jonathan Martin, Politico journalist

Politifact Rating: True.

Discussion

As President Joe Biden looks ahead to running for re-election next year, polling shows Americans have concerns about his age. Biden is 80, and he will be just weeks away from 82 on Election Day 2024.

An NBC News poll found that 70 percent of respondents  and 51 percent of Democrats  say Biden should not run for a second term. Among those who dont want Biden to run, almost half cited his age as a major reason why.

2024 CAMPAIGN: Texans are already sick of Biden v. Trump in 2024, poll shows

On ABCs This Week political roundtable, Politico journalist Jonathan Martin offered a comparison that put Bidens age into context.

ABOUT POLITIFACT PolitiFact is a fact-checking project to help you sort out fact from fiction in politics. Truth-O-Meter ratings are determined by a panel of three editors. The burden of proof is on the speaker, and PolitiFact rates statements based on the information known at the time the statement is made. See More Collapse

Joe Biden was older on his first day as president than Ronald Reagan was on his last day, Martin said April 30. Hes not going to escape the age issue.

This comparison checks out.

As president from 1981 to 1989, Reagan was well-known for being the oldest president to date. Age was a topic of concern when he ran for re-election.

In a 1984 re-election debate against his Democratic challenger, Walter Mondale, a panelist asked Reagan, who was then 73, whether he had any doubts that he could function effectively as president given his age.

Reagans response was an instant classic: I want you to know that also I will not make age an issue of this campaign. I am not going to exploit, for political purposes, my opponents youth and inexperience.

Mondale, who was 56 then and had a decades-long career in the Senate and as vice president, laughed heartily, as did everyone else in the hall. (Reagan went on to win 49 states in his bid for a second term.)

So was Biden older than Reagan? The answer is yes.

Heres a breakdown:

Reagan was born on Feb. 6, 1911. His final day in office was Jan. 20, 1989. His age on that day was about two weeks shy of 78.

Biden was born on Nov. 20, 1942. His first day in office was Jan. 20, 2021. His age on that day was two months older than 78.

So at Bidens inauguration, he was 10 weeks older than Reagan was on his final day in office.

Notably, Bidens once and possibly future Republican opponent, Donald Trump, is also relatively old. Trump is about three years and five months younger than Biden.

Trump was born on June 14, 1946. If Trump wins the 2024 presidential election, he would be sworn in on Jan. 20, 2025. His age on that day would be roughly 78 and a half, which would also be older than Reagan was on his final day in office.

For what its worth, life expectancy in the U.S. has increased since Reagans day. When Reagan was born in 1911, the life expectancy for a man was 50.9 years. By the time Biden was born in 1942, it had risen to 64.7 years. A baby born in 2021 could expect to live 76.1 years.
Watchdogs tracking the Superfund cleanup in Butte have sunk their teeth into a new bone of contention.

At first blush, the controversy about so-called grey dirt or grey material seems destined to cause a stir.

The Atlantic Richfield Co. and EPA are considering using slightly contaminated dirt for fill in certain scenarios instead of cleaner dirt at various sites in the Silver Bow Creek Corridor requiring Superfund remediation in and around Butte.

The phrase grey dirt refers to onsite soil at project sites that has lower metals content than soils considered contaminated wastes requiring removal and deposit in a repository.

For skeptics, slightly contaminated might be akin to slightly pregnant.

Evan Barrett refers to grey dirt as dirty dirt.

EPA prefers the more neutral phrase onsite material to emphasize, in part, that the fill is not trucked in from another site.

The debate about the potential use of grey dirt is causing conflict among the agencies and people most attuned to the ongoing Superfund cleanup of historic mining and smelting pollution in Butte-Silver Bow County.

During a contentious meeting in Butte last Monday night with EPA officials, Mick Ringsak described the idea of using grey dirt fill as "the most asinine thing Ive ever heard in my life.

Earlier, Ed Simonich wondered why the grey dirt alternative is even being considered, suggesting it will be an inferior solution than if cleaner fill is used.

Last month, Ian Magruder, a hydrogeologist who serves as technical advisor to the Citizens Technical Environmental Committee in Butte, advised CTEC members that the use of grey dirt, or onsite material, as fill is sanctioned by the consent decree signed in 2020.

He said the consent decree describes an approach allowing partial wastes removal and wastes-in-place.

Simonich wasnt swayed.

This becomes a moral issue on what is the right thing to do for the Butte community rather than a technical issue of how to interpret various tables and footnotes in the CD to obtain the least expensive solution, he said.

Deserves the best

Butte deserves the best cleanup possible, Simonich said. While the EPA may believe using grey material will satisfy environmental and human health concerns, it is the cheaper solution and not the best remedy for waste replacement in the center of our community.

The EPA says the use of certain onsite material as general fill is contemplated in the consent decree and would be protective of the remedy for the Butte Priority Soils Operable Unit (or BPSOU).

A judicial consent decree is the only settlement type EPA can use for remedial action at a Superfund site. It can formalize an agreement reached between EPA and a potentially responsible party, such as Atlantic Richfield, for cleanup at a Superfund site.

Atlantic Richfield said Friday that it will remove waste that exceeds the EPA cleanup criteria from the Silver Bow Creek project areas to protect and improve surface water quality in Silver Bow and Blacktail creeks.

Onsite soil that does not exceed the cleanup criteria will be used to reconstruct portions of the project areas where it will not enter or impact water quality in the creek, Atlantic Richfield said.

We are committed to working with the EPA, Butte-Silver Bow, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, and the Montana Natural Resource Damage Program to deliver a remedy that is protective of human health and the environment, the company said.

Joe Griffin is active in CTEC, once worked for the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and has a significant store of institutional knowledge about Superfund in Butte.

Griffin said Wednesday that controversy about the use of grey dirt lacks the leavening effect of context.

He said wastes have been left in place or are being left in place at sites ranging from Butte to Bonner.

Its true at Milltown, Griffin said. Its true for the Clark Fork. Its true at Silver Bow Creek. Its true at Parrot Tailings.

He said discussion about the use of onsite material should be part of deliberations about design. And he added that Atlantic Richfield likely wants to design remedies that are both effective and durable.

Nikia Greene, EPAs remedial project manager for Butte, said there has not been resolution among the parties about issues tied to the use of grey dirt. The questions include whether a negotiated consent decree among the major players from June 2020 would need to be reopened to address that use.

Is it about money?

Simonich weighed in.

It appears the only reason for undertaking this effort is to save money on the removal of tailings and installation of the storm basins, he said.

The states Natural Resource Damage Program referenced cost as a potential motivation in a March 10 letter to EPA.

The letter, from Jim Ford of NRDP, expressed general concerns with EPA allowing high contaminant concentration materials, which would be considered waste on other ongoing cleanup projectsto be used in the remedial projects.

Ford observed that using grey dirt appears to be intended to reduce the cost to British Petroleum-Atlantic Richfields implementation of the Butte Priority Soils Operable Unit remedy.

The Atlantic Richfield Co. is footing the bill for remediation because it acquired the original polluter, the Anaconda Co., in 1977 and inherited its staggering environmental liabilities under federal Superfund law.

Ford referenced Atlantic Richfields financial stake in the work.

Although NRDP has no issue in finding solutions to reduce the cost of remedy implementation, we do object to reducing the protectiveness of the remedy to meet this objective, he wrote.

On March 30, Magruder, the CTEC consultant, appeared remotely to talk to a gathering in Butte of CTEC members and others about using tainted fill not hot enough to be considered wastes requiring removal. Such fill would be sourced at the site and not imported, he said.

Toward the meetings end, Magruder said he was surprised the grey dirt option was so controversial.

He noted that existing consent decree criteria allow reuse of grey dirt under storm basins. He said that sanctioned use resulted from previous consent decree negotiations.

They are currently discussing altering where the grey dirt can be used to allow more flexibility but better protection of groundwater, Magruder said.

Its not just about money, although it would be a savings, he said. Greater flexibility would prevent thousands of trucks of clean fill being brought in and the traffic and challenges posed by that and finding a source for that much dirt.

One estimate suggests contractors working for Atlantic Richfield will remove more than 850,000 cubic yards of waste  equivalent, according to the estimate, to 24 Hotel Finlen towers  from the Silver Bow Creek Corridor project areas.

EPA was asked whether money was a key consideration.

Money, lack of appropriate fill and truck travel are not at issue here, the agency said.

Fords letter of March 10 to EPA observed that the grey dirt proposed as fill in Butte-Silver Bow County is troubling when compared to standards at other regional Superfund sites.

A troubling approach

As proposed, he said, materials with contaminant concentrations that could be 22.5 times higher than the fill being used in the ongoing Clark Fork River Operable Unit might be allowed under EPAs proposal.

The primary contaminants associated with past mining and smelting operations in Butte and Anaconda are arsenic, cadmium, copper, zinc, mercury and lead. When contamination reaches a certain threshold, materials are removed and trucked to a wastes repository.

In general, NRDP does not agree that allowing higher concentrations of contaminants in the corridor as a new high concentration fill category improves or even maintains protectiveness of the remedy, Ford wrote.

On Wednesday, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, referenced the leaving wastes-in-place debate when a Senate Appropriations Committee questioned EPA Administrator Michael Regan about the agencys 2024 budget.

Tester said a letter he sent last year asking Regan about wastes-in-place Superfund remedies in Montana was never answered. He wondered how concerned citizens could get answers to related questions when he could not.

We have beefed up our community engagement, Regan said.

Tester observed that community buy-in for remedial work is necessary and Regan agreed, noting that EPA must be willing to explain the science supporting the appropriate use of wastes-in-place and perform related monitoring and sampling.

People need to feel confident, Regan said. We have to do all of these things to ensure that when you store wastes-in-place for hundreds of years that it is safe for every community.

Sick and tired

The senator then cited the contentious community meeting in Butte Monday night and the disappointment expressed there about the pace and process of cleanup.

Folks in Butte are frustrated with the process, Tester said. That is being kind when I say just frustrated. Ill be blunt. Mr. Administrator, you need to fix it.

Butte wired this country in copper and it created one of the largest, if not the largest Superfund site in this country, Tester said.

He described Butte as an incredibly resilient community where people are really sick and tired of being jacked around.

Unremediated sites within the BPSOU where onsite material might be used include Northside Tailings and Diggings East and perhaps others. Greene said the use of onsite material has been ruled out for Grove Gulch.

He said Monday night that design work for the so-called Silver Bow Creek Corridor sites will likely require six years.

EPA said the design process will be fully transparent and include input from our stakeholders and the public.

For decades now, a key focus of regional watchdogs of the Superfund process in the region has been designing a cleanup that is both thorough and lasting.

Magruder acknowledged concerns that the moderate metal concentrations in grey area material could leach and contaminate water if it is exposed to precipitation or groundwater.

Simonich said he believes the general understanding in the community about Superfund excavation is that contaminated material is dug up, trucked to a repository and replaced with clean fill.

Magruder said the reality is that the Superfund cleanup outlined in the consent decree is a partial removal, with large areas of wastes left in place.

A lot of wastes get removed, but not all of it, he said during the CTEC meeting.

A draft Strategic Plan recently released by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and NRDP to guide the ongoing cleanup of the Clark Fork River describes an approach that will leave more contamination in place than previously completed cleanup phases. The revised approach for the Clark Fork is driven in large part by the prospect of running out of money from a settlement reached with Atlantic Richfield.

Leaving more wastes in place along the Clark Fork River raises the specter of contamination being redistributed in the event of a major flood or other significant hydrologic event, observers say.

Barrett raised similar concerns during the committees meeting of March 30. He said three generations hence could be left grappling again with the same problem and described climate change as an unpredictable variable.

EPA said it is in the midst of conversations regarding this design topic with Atlantic Richfield, DEQ, NRDP, CTEC and Butte-Silver Bow County, as well as the broader public.

Magruder commented.

These are important issues that need to be resolved before project design is finished and construction can begin, he said.
With less than six weeks until the Western Conservative Summit, no Republican Presidential candidate invited has confirmed attending. Considering how significant this election is for conservative values and the Constitution, you would think a few GOP candidates would be quick to accept and plan to attend one of the largest gatherings of conservatives in the western United States. This new reality starkly contrasts with the 2015 Western Conservative Summit, which featured five Republican presidential candidates, and 2016 which included the Republican nominee for president, Donald Trump.

These days out West, you are more apt to see tumbleweeds blowing by than Republican presidential candidates. On the other hand, like the silver and gold boom towns, Democrats are pouring into the communities to strike it rich.

The LA Times refers to the Democratic successes in the West as the New West. Joe Biden accrued over 1/3 of his electoral college victories out West. Joe Biden won eight western states; Donald Trump won only five. Colorado doesnt have a single Republican elected statewide, and Democrats operate with a supermajority in the Colorado House and a comfortable margin in the Colorado Senate.

You look back at the past few decades and see Democrats investing in the West. In 2000, the DNC hosted its convention in Los Angeles. 2008 had Barack Obama among the Greek columns at Mile High Stadium in Denver, Colorado, with 80,000 people in attendance.

The RNC hasnt hosted a convention in the western region since Bob Dole was the Republican nominee for president in 1996, leaving a significant void in representing conservative values for what were once our countrys most conservative territories.

During the 2020 Presidential campaign, both candidates focused on the eastern region of the United States. Both Donald Trump and Joe Biden have made the West one of the least visited regions of their presidencies. This makes a big difference on policy. The federal government continues to grow in size and influence, and its leaders often have no idea how their decisions affect our region of the country.

To better locate government leaders near the people they serve, President Trump moved the headquarters of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to Grand Junction, Colorado. About a year later, Joe Biden moved it back to D.C.

The Western Conservative Summit is a two-day gathering hosted by Colorado Christian University to celebrate and advance Christian, conservative values. It averages over 2,000 in-person attendees and hundreds of thousands of viewers online from all 50 states. For many years, C-SPAN has broadcasted portions of the event to the nation.

Because we are non-partisan, we always invite both Republican and Democratic candidates for office to speak and make their case for their candidacy. In 2019, Democratic Gov. Jared Polis addressed the Western Conservative Summit. He was received kindly, and people engaged civilly. The Summit may be one of the last places in America where this takes place.

I believe some of the finest Americans are western Americans. They love God, their country, and their families. They work hard to produce the food our country consumes and the energy it needs to move. Our issues also differ from those you hear about on cable television, typically broadcast from east coast cities.

This year for the first time, delegates of conservative leaders from the western states will present their issues on the main stage of the Western Conservative Summit: Montana on the problems with the Endangered Species Act; Nevada on water issues; California on the importance of parental rights, especially in education. Many different issues, one location, all West. What an excellent opportunity for candidates to meet and interact with western conservative leaders.

I hope Im wrong about the presidential candidates not visiting the Western Conservative Summit. I hope I can squint and see riding from the east, candidates ready to engage our attendees and address the unique issues we are facing.
Since the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan in the summer of 2021, the U.S. has continued sending money to the country. Now, a watchdog claims that the U.S. cant be confident that billions of aid to Afghanistan isnt funding the Taliban.

John Sopko, the Special Inspector General to Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), recently testified before the House Oversight Committee, Unfortunately, as I sit here today, I cannot assure this committee or the American taxpayer we are not currently funding the Taliban.

He continued Nor can I assure you that the Taliban are not diverting the money we are sending from the intended recipients, which are the poor Afghan people.

The U.S. has committed Afghanistan $8 billion in aid since our military withdrawal in 2021, according to CNN. Biden Administration officials have repeatedly stressed this aid is strictly going toward humanitarian efforts via non-governmental organizations and other humanitarian aid organizations.

Sopko, however, admitted there is effectively no monitoring of these funds to ensure they are not going to the Taliban. The U.S. does not currently recognize the Taliban as a legitimate government.

No effective oversight means U.S. funds could end up in the wrong hands, subjected to waste, fraud, and abuse, SIGAR wrote.

The U.S. needs to seriously reevaluate its funding and monitoring processes to ensure taxpayer dollars are actually helping the Afghan people, and not ending up of in the hands of the brutal and barbaric Taliban government.

The #WasteOfTheDay is brought to you by the forensic auditors at OpenTheBooks.com
Farmers are being reminded they have just one week to apply to this year's Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) application window to claim their 2023 payments.

Farmers are being urged to apply as soon as they are able to ensure applications are submitted ahead of the deadline, which is Monday 15 May.

Late applications can still be submitted until 9 June, but a penalty will be applied.

From 2024, the government plans to replace BPS with delinked payments. Reductions will be applied until the last payments are made in 2027.

Rural Payment Agency's (RPA) chief executive, Paul Caldwell encouraged farmers to submit their applications 'as soon as possible'.

"I am pleased that we have continued to achieve a strong performance to help farmers deliver sustainable food production alongside environmental actions to enhance and support nature.

"I encourage all eligible farmers to submit their applications and claims as soon as possible to ensure that no one misses out."

All applicants can update their personal and business information by applying through the Rural Payments service, where they can view and transfer their BPS entitlements and land parcels.

Last year, BPS advance payments were made in the summer for the first time to help farmers with their cashflow, with balance payments made from December.

This change to the BPS payment cycle will continue and this year advance payments of around 50% of the total will be made from the start of August 2023.
Tom Cruise said he considered King Charles his wingman at the monarchs coronation concert.

Tom Cruise said he considered King Charles his wingman at the monarchs coronation concert

The 60-year-old Top Gun: Maverick actor appeared at the two-hour show on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle on Sunday (07.05.23) in a pre-recorded tape of him piloting his P-51 Mustang.

He said about 74-year-old Charles  who trained as an RAF pilot before joining the Royal Navy to fly helicopters and ending his military career in 1976  Pilot to pilot. Your Majesty, you can be my wingman any time.

The concert also featured the first multi-location drone show, with 1,000 of the machines taking to the nations skies.

A Welsh Dragon made up of drones, spanning 140 metres, lit up the skies over Cardiff.

In a nod to Charles passion for the environment, a watering can appeared to hover above the Eden Projects famous domes in Cornwall.

Charles love of the arts was also reflected in the shows huge range of acts and performances, from acts including Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That, while fashion designer Stella McCartney paid tribute to the royal for his decades of work highlighting environmental issues.

The show came after Charles said he was deeply touched by the celebration of his coronation.

The monarch, who was crowned alongside his wife Camilla, 75, at Westminster Abbey, London, on Saturday (06.05.23), said on Sunday (07.05.23) hours ahead of his coronation concert via a Buckingham Palace spokesperson he and the new Queen had been deeply touched by the events of yesterday.

The statement added: Their Majesties were deeply touched by the events of yesterday and profoundly grateful both to all those who helped to make it such a glorious occasion  and to the very many who turned out to show their support in such numbers in London and further afield.
The United Kingdoms first two free trade agreements (FTAs) negotiated from scratch since leaving the European Union (EU) are anticipated to go live across all three countries from midnight on May 31 and are expected to raise bilateral trade with Australia by 53 per cent and with New Zealand by 59 per cent in the long term.

British Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak recently met Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese and New Zealand PM Chris Hipkins in London.

The United Kingdom's first two free trade agreements (FTAs) negotiated post-Brexit are set to come into effect on May 31, significantly boosting bilateral trade with Australia and New Zealand by an estimated 53 per cent and 59 per cent respectively in the long run. These would remove tariffs on all UK goods exports and cut red tape for digital trade.

Both trade deals will drive economic growth and innovation across the UK, Australia and New Zealand through the removal of tariffs on all UK goods exports, open unprecedented access for services, cutting of red tape for digital trade, and by making it easier for UK professionals to live and work in Australia and New Zealand, an official release said.

These landmark deals squarely deliver on my priorities to drive economic growth, boost innovation and increase highly skilled jobs across the UK, ensuring we and our closest friends continue to prosper for generations to come, PM Sunak said.

The UK and Welsh governments have now made the final legislative changes needed to bring the trade deals into action.

Services are central to the UKs economy, accounting for around 80 per cent of its economic output and workforce, and one of its biggest export success stories.

Other benefits for the UK include investment opportunities and access to government contracts, including putting British businesses on equal footing to compete for an additional 10 billion of Australian public sector contracts per year and high investment screening thresholds for UK investors in New Zealand.

Tariff free access to both markets will be available for all British goods with flexible rules of origins, giving businesses a competitive edge over international rivals.

There will be reaffirmed commitments to the Paris Agreement and opportunities to grow the United Kingdoms low-carbon economy, with tariffs on environmental goods liberalised.

There are robust protections for British farmers in both deals, including staging tariff liberalisation for sensitive goods over time.

Both countries are key members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a huge trade bloc in the Indo-Pacific.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
The star-studded event honouring King Charles III's coronation, held on Sunday in Windsor, England, undoubtedly featured Katy Perry as its highlight. A tiger's face lit up above Katy as she performed her smash song Roar for 20,000 guests while sparkling in a golden ball gown.



She also gave a performance of Firework, another of her hits, which she gave to King Charles III. "Thank you for bringing out the fireworks for so many young people," she said. Kate Middleton and Prince William's daughter Princess Charlotte were spotted singing along with Katy among the crowd. While Katy performed on stage, the UK flag was seen being waved by the audience.

Several people reacted to a video of Princess Charlotte singing along with Katy on Twitter. In addition to Katy, Lionel Richie also performed on stage while being applauded by the monarchs. At the event, Sonam Kapoor presented other choir performers from the Commonwealth while giving a spoken word performance. She was seen wearing a stunning white gown.
HT Most Stylish Award Function Best & Worst Dressed Celebs: The biggest names of Bollywood descended on the red carpet of the Style Awards held last night in Mumbai's Taj Land's End. It was a glittering affair, as the celebs dressed in stunning ensembles grace the awards ceremony.

From Sushmita Sen, Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Ayushman Khurrana, Richa Chadha, PV Sindhu, Shilpa Shetty, Kriti Sanon, Akshay Kumar, Raveena Tandon, and more made appearances at the fashion gala. So, here's a look at the best and worst-dressed celebrities at the HT Most Stylish Awards 2023.

Sushmita Sen made a sexy appearance in a sizzling royal blue velvet pantsuit at the awards function. The deep-neckline blazer was further accentuated with chain detailing.

Sushmita surely upped the style game at the fashion do.

Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar raised the temperature at the event, as they made a stylish appearance in all-black outfits. They definitely slay.

Rakul Preet Singh upped the glam quotient in a black body-con dress with cut-out detailing. She opted for a sleek look. She tied her hair in a bun and ditched accessories.

Kriti Sanon looked glamorous as she attended the awards ceremony in a semi-sheer black long dress. The actress opted for glam makeup and styled her hair in waves. She completed the look with smokey eyes.

Aditi Roy Hydari looked stunning as ever in an Indo-western outfit.

Sonam Bajwa stole the limelight in a 3D-printed wet couture train gown from the shelves of Syndical Chamber.

Sonam Bajwa stole the limelight in a 3D printed wet couture train gown from the shelves of Syndical Chamber.

Janhvi Kapoor opted for a shimmery black off-shoulder dress, but the diva who generally takes the internet by storm with her style, failed to make a statement at the event.

Ananya Panday made an appearance in an all-pink outfit. She grabbed several eyeballs as she accessorized her look with a golden 'bucket' purse. The actress failed to impress us with her look.

Babil Khan failed to impress us in a quirky blue and black denim ensemble. The bandana around his neck, too, did not seem flattering.

Shilpa Shetty too looked lukewarm in a striped co-Ord dress.

Archana Puran Singh topped the list of worst-dressed celebs at the event. Her look seemed a bit extra.
Sonam Kapoor At King Charles Coronation Concert: Sonam Kapoor was the only Indian celebrity who attended the coronation concert of King Charles III, which was held on May 7 at Windsor Castle in London. And now, the actress has become the target of online trolls for her speech at the concert.

The Bollywood actor looked beautiful in an off-shoulder floral gown, from the shelves of designer Anamika Khanna and Emilia Wickstead. She accessorized her look with a dainty necklace and matching earrings. She left her tresses open.

SONAM KAPOOR DELIVERS SPEECH AT CORONATION CONCERT

Sonam Kapoor was introduced as one of Bollywood's biggest actors at the concert. She starts her speech with a 'Namaste' and introduces Steve Winwood, who performed his notable song 'Higher Love' accompanied by a 70-piece orchestra.

Sonam in her 1-minute speech said, "Our Commonwealth is a union. Together we are one-third of the world's people, one-third of the world's ocean, and one-quarter of the world's land. Each of our countries is unique. Each of our people is special. But we choose to stand this one. Learning from our history, blessed by our diversity, driven by our values, and determined to build a more peaceful, sustainable, and prosperous future for everyone, where every voice is heard. Without further ado, here's welcoming the incredible voices from across the Commonwealth."

NETIZENS TROLL SONAM KAPOOR FOR HER SPEECH

As soon as the video of Sonam's speech surfaced on social media, netizens were quick to judge it and termed it as 'embarrassing'. She was even slammed for thanking the British Empire, which enslaved India. One of the users wrote, "This is embarrassing. As if going to the event itself wasn't embarrassing enough. It's giving 5th std English elocution competition." Another commented, "truly a global embarrassment,"

A third user wrote, "Did she thank the British Empire for enslaving and looting us in her speech? Just curious."

Meanwhile, on the work front, Sonam Kapoor will be next seen in Shome Shome Makhija's Blind.

DISCLAIMER: The particular article is a compilation of thoughts shared by social media users on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of Filmibeat.
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne wrapped up the much-anticipated shooting of the first film out of four films under the My Melbourne project. The film, which is yet to be named, is co-directed by Onir and William Duan.

It stars Arka Das, Mouli Ganguli, and Jackson Gallagher. The film was shot in five days and the story is based on grief and forgiveness. The film follows the reunion of a queer Indian man, Indraneel, played by Arka, and his father, Mihir, played by Mouli, after many years of estrangement.

Onir said, "I am happy to be part of My Melbourne as it is a unique special film. It's the first time such a unique cross-country initiative has been taken to bridge cultural ties and bring the two communities together using the medium of cinema. The films of My Melbourne are based on diversity and are focused on bringing forth talent locally from Melbourne and I can vouch that there are such incredible local talents waiting to be discovered and this project has done just that. My film tells one such story of an integral part of diversity, bringing forth a warm story of a father trying to rebond with his gay son. It was a great experience to work and collaborate with talent from Melbourne. I am glad that Film Victoria and Mitu Bhowmick Lange have taken this step to celebrate cinema and diversity.

Mitu Bhowmik Lange, director of the festival says, "This is a very ambitious project of love celebrating the core values of IFFM - Diversity and inclusivity. The key idea was to provide a platform to emerging creatives from diverse marginalised backgrounds from various walks and abilities of Australia, mentored by some of the world's best filmmakers. It's an anthology of four stories weaved into one feature film called My Melbourne based on authentic migrant experiences. We cannot be what we cannot see "

For the unversed, IFFM is one of the biggest film festivals abroad, which is in association with the Australian Government. My Melbourne project brings four iconic filmmakers from India to mentor young filmmakers from Australia, which will be shot in Melbourne, and will be on the themes of Diversity - Race, Disability, Sexuality, and Gender. Apart from Onir, the other three films will be helmed by Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, and Rima Das.
Sagar Surya's Father Opens Up:'Tatteem Mutteem' is a popular television series that has won the hearts of Malayalees. The episodes where the characters Arjunettan, Komalavalli, Amma, and Kamalasanan appeared and the laughter they created are still in the hearts of the audience.

Sagar Surya, the young star who shone as Aadi in the series, is now winning the hearts of the audience through Bigg Boss Season 5. Sagar's emotional speech about his mother's untimely demise during the show touched everyone's heart.

Now, Sagar's father says that after the death of his mother, it is from Maneesha that Sagar gets motherly care. He was speaking in an interview given to Filmibeat Malayalam. "I was happy when I came to know that Maneesha was also on Bigg Boss," he said.

Bigg Boss Malayalam 5: Shiju Calls Sobha A "Idiot"; She Responds, "Go And Call Your Family That": WATCH VIDEO

"Before going to Bigg Boss House, Sagar said that in the show he would address Maneesha as 'Amma'. He said that he couldn't do otherwise. I told him to call the way he wished. I said he should not worry about what people will think about it. But it felt bad when they fought," Sagar Surya's father, Surendran, said. Surendran also said that he then tried to think that it was just a game.

COVID Lockdown And Family Bonding

Sagar was not able to accept the death of his mother immediately. It was COVID time. Everyone was at home at that time. It was like a festival for us. But suddenly she passed away.

"During the COVID lockdown period, an intense attachment happened between my wife and the children." Surendran said that Sagar and his brother were enjoying those periods to the fullest when suddenly the death happened. His father adds that Sagar's mother was an avid fan of Bigg Boss and used to ask Sagar to participate on the show.

Bigg Boss Malayalam 5: Sobha Viswanath Complains To Mohanlal About Akhil Marar: "He Is A Bully"

Sagar, who is known for his television series 'Tatteem Mutteem', made his film debut with Kuruthi, which was released in 2021. It should be mentioned that the character of Vishnu, played by Sagar in the film, was much admired.

Later, Sagar acted in many films like 'Kuri', 'Kaapa', 'Jo and Jo', and 'Upacharapoorvam Gunda Jayan'. Sagar's mother's untimely death occurs while he is acting in 'Tatteem Mutteem'. It made a big impact on Sagar. Sagar had told Host Mohanlal that when Sagar's 'Tatteem Mutteem' was airing on television, his mother used to switch the channel and watch Bigg Boss.
Sobha Viswanath Akhil Marar Fight: In the weekend episodes of Bigg Boss Malayalam Season 5, host Mohanlal attends the show regularly to judge the weekly tasks and performances of the housemates. Mohanlal often asks about the problems between the Bigg Boss House family members. An issue that Mohanlal raised this time was the one between Sobha and Akhil Marar.

The audience have been witnessing problems between Sobha and Akhil Marar in the Bigg Boss house for the past few days. They saw Akhil Marar throwing Sobha's clothes into the pool. Later, the audience saw some interesting fights, including when the two had a problem in the kitchen and Marar took Sobha's saree and wore it.

Also Read Bigg Boss Malayalam 5: 'If He Feels Like Hurting Someone, Will Hurt Himself': SHOCKING Revelation About Akhil

Whether these fights between the two are real or if they are being playful, doubt lingers among the audience and the housemates alike. This time, Mohanlal openly asked about this issue.

Sobha Viswanath vs. Akhil Marar

But Sobha complained to Mohanlal that Akhil was bullying her and that she had a lot of problems. Sobha said that Marar often misbehaves and would never do this to anyone else. "He is disturbing me by reaching wherever I am. If I react, he stops. But again, it will continue as a group attack or as bullying," she said.

Later, Mohanlal asked Akhil Marar about the issue. But Akhil said that he does this for fun. Akhil said that he is doing all this as if he is behaving with his friends, who are his close friends who studied together when he was young.

Bigg Boss Malayalam 5 - Sobha Reveals Being A Victim Of Marital R*pe: My Husband Was Addicted To...

Marar said that Sobha followed him and disturbed him when he stopped talking to her after he heard what she had said when Anu came as a wild card entry. Mohanlal also asked Sobha if Akhil was returning what Sobha had done.
Global Excellence Awards 2023 Winners List:Two popular corporate award events in India took place on Sunday (May 7) Mumbai's Hotel Sahara Star. The Global Excellence Awards 2023 and the National Quality Awards 2023 turned out to be a star-studded affair as leading celebrities graced it in style.

PRIYANKA CHOUDHARY STUNS IN BLACK

While Madhuri Dixit was the chief guest at the GEA 2023 awards, Sonali Bendre was the chief guest at NQA 2023 awards. Several TV celebrities including Priyanka Choudhary, Sumbul Touqeer, Shivangi Joshi, Shalin Bhanot attended the gala event in the Maximum City, looking all stylish.

The telly town stars impressed the fashion police with their sartorial choices, leaving their fans awestruck. While Priyanka Chahar Choudhary sizzled in a black thigh-high slit dress, Shivangi Joshi stole all the limelight in a gorgeours dress.

Our favourite Imlie aka Sumbul Touqeer donned a saree for the awards ceremony, looking picture-perfect as ever. Her Bigg Boss 16 co-contestant Shalin Bhanot also made a dashing appearance at the event.

PRIYANKA CHOUDHARY WINS GEA 2023 FAN FAVOURITE ACTRESS AWARD

Fans couldn't control their excitement after the Udaariyaan actress won the award for Fan Favourite Actress at the GEA 2023. She received the award from none other than Bollywood's Dhak Dhak girl Madhuri Dixit.

Sharing a clip from the event, a Twitter user wrote, "She received award from madhuri dixit. That's such a big moment for her. i'm so emotional rn Pri genuinely deserved that award so much and i'm so happy for her !! PRIYANKA AT GEA2023 (sic)."

She received award from madhuri dixit 



That's such a big moment for her



im so emotional rn Pri genuinely deserved that award so much and im so happy for her !!



PRIYANKA AT GEA2023

FANS KI FAV PRIYANKA#PriyankaChaharChoudhary pic.twitter.com/bxkGHvMX6t    (@heyYou1__) May 7, 2023

GLOBAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS (GEA) 2023 WINNERS LIST

Fan Favourite Actress- Priyanka Choudhary

Phenomenal Performer of The Year 2023- Shivangi Joshi

Fan Favourite- Sumbul Touqeer

Fitness Icon Of The Year- Shalin Bhanot

After winning an award, Sumbul Touqeer shared a picture, flaunting her winner's trophy. She gave a glimpse of her shiny trophy and expressed her gratitude towards the fans.

We extend our heartiest congratulations to all the winners.
Shiv Thakare and his tiffs in the Bigg Boss house were the most intriguing elements of Bigg Boss 16. Be it his war of words with Priyanka Choudhary, his ugly fight with Archana Gautam or his tiff with Shalin Bhanot, etc, Shiv's journey on the popular reality show was quite intriguing.

And now, Bigg Boss 16 has ended and the equations between the contestants have been changing as the arch rivals are seen partying together while some BFFs in the house aren't really in touch. Amid this, Shiv was quizzed about his Bigg Boss 16 rival Shalin Bhanot.

This happened during his appearance at the Global Excellence Awards 2023. During the event, Shiv was quizzed about meeting Shalin and he was all praises for him. Shiv asserted, "Shalin se mila main... bahut acha aadmi hai". This clearly speaks volumes about Shiv and Shalin's bond after Bigg Boss 16.

Talking about the work front, Shalin is currently seen playing the lead in Bekaboo opposite Eisha Singh. On the other hand, Shiv is gearing up for Rohit Shetty's much talked about Khatron Ke Khiladi season 13. The popular adventure based reality show will also feature Archana Gautam, Aishwarya Sharma, Arjit Taneja, Rohit Roy, Nyra Banerjee etc and will be shot in Argentina this year. The contestants are expected to leave for the shoot this month.

There have been reports about Shiv Thakare being the highest paid contestant on Khatron Ke Khiladi 13. It is reported that Shiv is charging over Rs 10 lakhs per week for the show. Talking about it, Shiv asserted, "Ye sab cheezein hum nahi bta sakte, hume bola gaya hai. But paise liye hain aur mera jo mileage hai wo bhi nikalta hai aur EMI bhi bhar sakta hu itna paisa liya hai maine. Acha khasa amount hai bs".
COPENHAGEN (dpa-AFX) - Denmark's industrial production declined in March after expanding in the previous month, largely led by a plunge in the pharmaceutical industry, data from Statistics Denmark showed on Monday. Industrial production dropped a seasonally adjusted 2.3 percent month-on-month in March, reversing a 5.1 percent rise in February. Production of pharmaceuticals alone fell 7.8 percent annually in March versus a 13.5 percent surge in the prior month. Output of the electrical equipment segment decreased 8.0 percent compared to last year, and those of the textile and leather industry logged a negative growth of 4.6 percent. At the same time, the electronics industry showed a sharp growth of 8.8 percent. On a yearly basis, industrial production climbed an unadjusted 9.7 percent in March. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc. (CSE: VEGI) (OTCQB: VGGIF) (FSE: 77i) ("Boosh" or the "Company") a premier plant-based brand in the "better for you" food sector announced today it has begun production of 1.5 oz bags of Beanfields Chips to open up sales to the US hospitality sector. Beanfields Snacks, the primary asset of Boosh Plant Based Brands, represents a significant growth opportunity in the salty snacks sector.

Prior to Boosh Plant-based Brands acquiring the asset Beanfields Chips, the previous owners had made inroads into the hospitality sector with accounts at Universities, Corporate offices and numerous independent quick serve and convenience stores representing annual sales of $1.7M CAN.

Bean Fields 1.5 oz Single Serving Bags



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7944/165115_mini_chips.jpg

CEO Connie Marples explains, "Over the past year our focus has been on the retail grocery industry to try to meet the high demands for consumers, but we have decided it is time to start building the hospitality business back up by allocating approximately 15% of each production run of chips with the individual 1.5 oz bags. Now more than ever consumers are looking for quick single serve snacks whether they are at work, school or on a road trip. We want to reach those customers to assist in growing the brand to new customers through new sales channels."

According to Future Market Insights, Inc. The global better for you snacks market is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2022 to 2032 and reach a valuation of US$ 70 Bn by 2032. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/better-snacks-market-expected-surpass-114100307.html Snacks that are low in carbohydrates and cholesterol, as well as are gut-friendly, are becoming increasingly popular globally. Consumers are preferring innovative snacks that are made from natural ingredients and do not contain any chemical additives. In order to gain brand loyalty, key companies are developing new products that are non-GMO and vegan.

Beanfields chips are vegan, non-GMO, gluten free, top 8 allergen free chips made from beans, rice, oil and spices and contain plant protein and fibre.

Connie Marples

Founder/CEO

connie@booshfood.com

Telephone: 778 840 1700

www.Booshfood.com

About Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc.:



Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary, Boosh Food (www.booshfood.com) offers high quality, non-GMO, gluten free, 100% plant-based nutritional comfort foods for the whole family. Through a separate subsidiary, Beautiful Beanfields, (www.beanfields.com) the Company owns Beanfields, a plant-based chip brand sold in over 7,000 stores throughout North America. Boosh, good for you and good for planet earth.

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. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, the Company's expectations concerning the size of the Financing, its ability to close the Financing in whole or in part or at all and its plan for the proceeds of the Financing. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. 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 statements 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.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165115
Paris, France--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - DJUST announces the launch of its new business-to-business (B2B) eCommerce model, designed to modernize and streamline operations for businesses of all sizes.

Figure 1

The DJUST model integrates, automates, and simplifies significant business processes, incorporating B2B features such as catalog, customer, and order management. It enables more efficient quotations, inventory, invoicing management, client messaging, and more.

"DJUST's new B2B eCommerce solution offers a comprehensive, highly-effective solution for businesses. It is everything that businesses may need in one platform," says Arnaud Rihiant, founder of DJUST.

The DJUST model is highly flexible and customizable, allowing it to adapt quickly to changing business conditions. Businesses can tailor their eCommerce operations however they want, according to their specific needs and goals.

Rihiant adds, "DJUST's agility and flexibility enables seamless integration with existing ERP systems, ensuring a faster time to market without disrupting current IT infrastructure."

At the same time, security and privacy also remain paramount for DJUST, with measures in place to prevent security breaches and fraud while maintaining system resilience, quickly recovering from any potential disruptions or issues.

Rihiant shares, "Our vision is to make B2B Commerce accessible for all users. People and products are our top two priorities as we develop the best in class B2B Commerce solution.

Facilitated by ultra-modern and sustainable technology, this model pioneers a safe and effective platform that will drive growth and enable better connections with customers and users."

DJUST aims that through this new model, they can effectively bridge the gap between traditional business-to-business transactions and the digital realm and empower eCommerce businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

About DJUST

DJUST is the next-generation SaaS B2B eCommerce solution providing flexibility and adaptability to businesses of all sizes across industries such as food & beverages, fashion, beauty & care, construction, pharmaceuticals, and retailers. Built on innovation and flexibility, DJUST has quickly become the go-to solution for companies seeking to future-proof their eCommerce operations. Offering a full range of services tailored to various business needs, DJUST streamlines manual orders and administrative tasks, making it easier for businesses to improve day-to-day operations and stay ahead of the competition.

Contact Details:

Contact Person: Arnaud Rihiant

Email: contact@djust.io

Website: https://www.djust.io

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165082
GOGL - Invitation to presentation of Q1 2023 Results

Golden Ocean Group Limited (the "Company) will publish its financial results for the first quarter of 2023 on Tuesday May 16, 2023.

In connection with the release, a conference call and webcast will be held as described below:

Conference call and webcast

A conference call will be held at 4:00 P.M. CET (10:00 A.M. New York Time) on Tuesday May 16, 2023. The presentation will be available for download from the Investor Relations section at www.goldenocean.bm (under "Presentations") prior to the conference call/webcast.

In order to listen to the presentation, you may do one of the following:

a. Webcast

Visit the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.goldenocean.bmand click on the link to "Webcast", or access directly via the webcast link below.

GOGL Q1 2023 Webcast

b. Conference Call

Participants will need to register online prior to the conference call via the link below. Dial-in details will be available when registered.

GOGL Q1 2023 Conference Call

A Q&A session will be held after the conference call/webcast. Information on how to submit questions will be given at the beginning of the session.

May 8, 2023

Hamilton, Bermuda

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements of section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.




NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S. NEWSWIRE OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Vancouver, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. ("Terra" or the "Company") (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1) is pleased to announce positive assay results from surface rock chip and soil sampling at its 80.4 km2 Ceovishte license in southern Serbia and closing of the 1st tranche of the previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of units (the "Units") for gross proceeds of $404,650 (the "Offering").



Highlights

Surface rock sample include concentrations as high as 53.5 g/t Au, 78.6 g/t Ag and 2.47 % Cu with up to 0.39% Co and 0.45% Bi (Table 1);





with up to (Table 1); > 900 m strike length of Au-Ag- As- Bi-Cu-Te anomalism in soil geochemistry defines new target, with soil assays returning up to 2.42 g /t Au (Figure 2);





(Figure 2); Mineralization is controlled by potassic altered diorites hosting quartz-chalcopyrite veins with secondar y copper mineralogy at surface (Figure 3) and a gold-bismuth-cobalt rich epithermal assemblage;





(Figure 3) and a gold-bismuth-cobalt rich epithermal assemblage; Drill-ready with both porphyry and epithermal mineralization visible at collar locations.





Terra Balcanica CEO, Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, commented: "Detailed prospecting, rock chip and soil sampling at our Serbian Ceovishte licence not only confirmed the existence of a sizable hydrothermal system responsible for multi-ounce gold assays at surface near the Medjurecje locality but also defined a new, 900-m-wide, topographically depressed, semi-circular gold-silver-copper soil anomaly northeast of the high-grade Au zone that is characterized by potassic altered andesites interpreting by Terra's technical team to represent a previously neglected porphyry target. This confirms the potential of our Serbian assets and represents a significant diversification of the Company's polymetallic portfolio already defined by our Viogor Zanik project. It sets the stage for drilling of the shallow high grade gold target later this year."

The Ceovishte license totals over 80 km2 of highly prospective land for gold and copper exploration in the historic Raska mining district of southern Serbia (Figure1). The license area drapes southern slopes of the Golija Mountain, a part of the well-known Kopaonik metallogenic zone. This area features the Kizevak and Sastavci Pb-Zn-Ag mines including the Karadak deposit, all owned by Adriatic Metals plc. The historical Yugoslav GKZ, non-NI 43-101 compliant resource estimates for Kizevak is 3.9 Mt of ore grading 3.92 % Zn, 2.15 % Pb and 31 g/t Ag categorized according to the Yugoslav A+B+C1 resource nomenclature (www.adriaticmetals-serbia.com/our-projects/adriatic-metals-serbia-sastavci). The Raska mining district also holds the Rudnica Cu-Au porphyry target and is a northerly extension of the partially exploited, world class Trepca Pb-Zn-Ag skarn deposit of the norther Serbian province of Kosovo. Trepca features a non-NI 43-101 compliant resource of 60.5 Mt of ore grading over 8.0 % Pb+Zn and >159 Moz of Ag.

Figure 1. Geological map of the Ceovishte license area in southern Serbia. The black rectangle labelled Figure 2 is Terra's primary area of interest within the license. It encapsulates Au-Cu mineralized Neogene volcanic rocks which intruded an ultramafic country rock of the West Vardar Ophiolite. Previous operators conducted work in the south of the Ceovishte license and overlooked the Au-Cu potential of the north where Terra has conducted a successful soil and rock chip sampling campaign and is planning a maiden drilling program in early Q3 of 2023 (click here to view image).

Figure 2. Map displaying Au in soil (ppb), and anomalous Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te signature. Sampling verifies the location of known mineralization and reveals > 900 m strike length of new prospective ground open to the NE. Rock sample IDs can be correlated with results in Table 1. The drill target is labelled where rock chips return up to 53.5 g/t Au and 1.45 % Cu. Note the location of anomalous Au in soil forming an arcuate pattern around the depressed centre, interpreted as possible concentric fractures around a porphyry intrusive which crops out in the south and northwest. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N) (click here to view image).



Geology and Mineralization

The Company is focussed on exploring the overlooked Au-Ag-Cu (Bi-Co) occurrences in the northern extents of the license where Neogene intrusive rocks of intermediate composition are emplaced within ultramafic rocks of the west Vardar Ophiolite Belt. Field observations and microscopy confirms biotite-magnetite-k-feldspar potassic alteration within the diorites, which are observed controlling the distribution of mineralization and are thus inferred as the causative intrusion and target for further exploration. Intrusive contacts and vein-hosted sulphides in the south dip shallowly to the NNE below ultramafic cover into an annular topography low.

Both hypogene sulphide mineralization and supergene oxide zones are present at Ceovishte and returned very encouraging assay results of a well-endowed Au-Ag-Cu system. Quartz-chalcopyrite veins are partially oxidised at surface producing a mixture of malachite, azurite and tenorite (Figure 3) and occur within the same outcrops as quartz-arsenopyrite-bismuthinite veins. Chalcopyrite is also observed finely disseminated within the potassic altered intrusives. Gossans and vuggy silica host the highest Au values up to 53.5 g/t.





Figure 3. Macroscopically observed copper mineralization in samples 103281 and 103276 which returned 1.45 % and 2.47 % Cu, respectively. Mineralization is vein-hosted within potassic altered diorites and comprises quartz, chalcopyrite, malachite, azurite and tenorite (click here to view image).

Mineralized rock samples also return high bismuth and cobalt, which may have been stripped from the ultramafic country rocks by hydrothermal fluids and re-precipitated within the epithermal veins. Ceovishte therefore has characteristics of the 5-element vein (Ag-Bi-Co-Ni-As) style of mineralization.

Sample Easting Northing Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Bi (ppm) Cu (%) Co (ppm) 100851 476500 4815182 53.5 8.7 4490 0.03 12 100838 475554 4816186 0.19 78.6 2 0.01 71 100839 476417 4815188 11.0 10.1 3570 0.14 805 103273 476383 4815204 6.56 1.2 299 0.01 1300 103271 476335 4815157 0.48 1.8 20 0.12 21 103282 476479 4815173 10.95 0.82 299 0.02 3940 103264 476602 4815182 0.09 18.9 6 0.01 5.7 103267 475606 4816196 0.02 0.69 42 0.04 9 103262 475628 4816084 3.09 11.8 480 0.03 336 103269 475605 4816158 0.10 1.7 0.4 - 9 103276 476179 4815987 0.05 10.8 20 2.47 13 103279 476376 4815128 0.39 2.16 5 0.01 27 103280 476383 4815133 3.28 1.42 224 0.01 145 103277 476189 4815997 2.2 0.5 69 0.01 88 103281 476514 4815189 0.16 21.5 144 1.45 50

Table 1. Rock chip locations and assay results for key commodity elements. Samples can be seen with anomalous Au in soil Figure 1. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N).

Soil Geochemistry

Results from 386 B/C horizon soil samples successfully captured the signature of Au-Cu mineralization at Ceovishte. Two known occurrences were highlighted by the sampling, verifying the Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te grouping as representing mineralization, with a further 900 m strike length anomaly being generated for follow up in the north of the survey. The newly defined target area returned assays up to 2.42 g/t Au and 424 ppm Cu in soil. This area has not seen rock chip sampling and offers significant exploration upside for extending the footprint of known Au-Cu mineralization.

Elevated commodity and pathfinder elements in soil correlate to a K-Ba-Na element grouping, indicating sub cropping intermediate composition intrusives rather than the ultramafic country rock which has a strong Ni-Co-Cr-Mg signature. Soil anomalism generates an annular pattern which surrounds a central topographic depression with enclosing ridges of ultramafic rock. This correlation could indicate concentric and ring radial fractures, which have formed around a central porphyry intrusive and focussed hydrothermal fluid flow. Potassic altered, Au-Cu mineralized diorite intrusives have been observed and sampled at both the southern and northern extents of this annular feature, with over 900 m of untested strike length in the northeast.

Future Exploration Program

The norther Ceovishte licence is drill-ready with pad locations designed to test the depth extensions of the Au-Cu mineralization sampled on surface. Following positive results in maiden drilling geophysics will be considered to guide a larger phase II drilling program.

Follow up of the anomalous soil geochemistry will be undertaken in the northeast through geological/alteration mapping and rock chip assay. This will generate a pipeline of targets for drill testing. Further soil sampling will be completed in the northeast where the anomaly remains open to define its full spatial extent.

1st Tranche Private Placement Financing Closed

The Company issued an aggregate of 4,760,586 Units at a price of $0.085 per Unit for gross proceeds of $404,650 pursuant to the Offering announced on April 4th, 2023. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.13 until May 5th, 2026.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for working capital and to fund the Phase II drilling across its portfolio of properties. Finders' fees in the amount of $8,057 were paid.

Giulio Bonifacio, Chair of the board of directors, Steven Latimer, a director, and Kim Oishi, a director (the "Insiders") purchased 1,194,117 Units as part of the Offering. The issuance of the Units to the Insiders constitutes a "related party transaction" as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the securities do not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by Insiders in the Offering was approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such transactions.

Pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws, all securities issued and issuable in connection with the closing of the Private Placement will be subject to a four (4) month hold period ending September 6th, 2023.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell 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 any U.S. person or any person in the United States, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. "United States" and "U.S. Person" are as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act.

QAQC

Representative rock samples were taken from surface outcrops and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia for sample preparation and subsequent wet chemical analysis at the Loughrea laboratory in Ireland, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certified test facility. Sample preparation PREP-31BY method involved crushing the core to a 70% fraction less than 2 mm in size, rotary split 1.0 kg and pulverizing the split to greater than 85% passing 75 microns. Silver and base metals were analysed by ICP MS after a four-acid digest (ME-MS61). Gold was assayed by 30g fire assay with ICP AES finish (Au-ICP21). Over limit samples for base metals were re-analysed by the four-acid digest ICP-AES analyses termed ME-OG62. Over-limit gold analysis was conducted by fire assay and gravimetric finish (Au-GRA21). Soil samples were taken in the B/C horizon and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia. Analysis was undertaken after dry screening to 180 microns by method AuME-TL44 an aqua regia digest followed by ICP analysis on a 50g sample. Over-assays were conducted by the OG-46 (base metals) and Au-AROR44 (gold) techniques.

Qualified Person

Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, P.Geo, is the Company's 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 amiskovic@terrabresources.com, 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. - May 8, 2023) - Visionary Gold Corp. (TSXV: VIZ) ("Visionary" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a shares for debt agreement to satisfy $474,286.44 of the Company's debts. The Company has reached an agreement with the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Director, Wesley Adams ("Adams") to extinguish, the Company's outstanding debt owing to him in exchange for the issuance of units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a deemed price of $0.07 per Unit.

Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company (each, a "Unit Share") and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share" and, together with the Unit Shares, the "Shares") at a price of $0.14 for a period of 36 months from the closing date of the transaction (the "Transaction").

An aggregate of 6,775,521 Unit Shares will be issued to Adams, with a further 3,387,760 Warrant Shares issuable upon exercise of the Warrants, for a total of 10,163,281 Shares issuable to Adams pursuant to the Transaction.

The Company determined to satisfy the indebtedness with Shares in order to preserve its cash for development of its business. Issuance of the Shares is subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). The Shares issued pursuant to the shares for debt agreements will be subject to a four month plus one day hold period pursuant to applicable securities legislation.

The Transaction will constitute a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the valuation and the minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 provided for in subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(e) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the fair market value of the subject matter of, and the debt settled in the Transaction, does not represent more than 25% of the Company's market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The Transaction has been approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such Transaction. A material change report will be filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the Transaction contemplated by this news release. The Company believes this shorter period is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances as the Company wishes to close the Transaction as soon as practicable for sound business reasons.

Contact:

Wesley Adams, Chief Executive Officer

Visionary Gold Corp.

407-325 Howe Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 1Z7

Tel: (303) 809-4668

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. These include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the completion of the satisfaction of certain debts of the Company for shares. 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: the approval of the Exchange of the shares for debt transactions.

The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors including: denial of acceptance of the Company's filing of a shares for debt application by the Exchange; 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 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/165120
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Fortitude Gold (OTCQB:FTCO) (the "Company") today announced the timing of its first quarter 2023 earnings conference call scheduled for Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Fortitude Gold is a gold producer, developer, and explorer with operations in Nevada, U.S.A. offering investors exposure to both gold production and dividend yield.

Conference Call

Fortitude Gold's CEO, Mr. Jason Reid, will host the conference call Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Topics of discussion will include first quarter results and an update on current operations. The conference call will be recorded and posted to the Company's website.

Q&A

Following Mr. Reid's opening remarks, the Company will host a question and answer (Q&A) session.

Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Time: 11:00 AM Eastern (9:00 AM Mountain)

There are two ways to join the conference call:

To join the conference via webcast, please click on the following link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2640/48395.

To join the call via telephone please use one of the following dial-in details:

Toll Free: 877-545-0523

International: 973-528-0016

Participant Access Code: 961358

Please connect to the conference call 10 minutes prior to the start time using one of the connection options listed above.

About Fortitude Gold Corp.:

Fortitude Gold is a U.S. based gold producer targeting projects with low operating costs, high margins, and strong returns on capital. The Company's strategy is to grow organically, remain debt-free and distribute substantial dividends. The Company's Nevada Mining Unit consists of five high-grade gold properties located in the Walker Lane Mineral Belt and a sixth high-grade gold property in west central Nevada. The Isabella Pearl gold mine, located on the Isabella Pearl mineralized trend, is currently in production. Nevada, U.S.A. is among the world's premier mining friendly jurisdictions.

Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. If you are risk-averse you should NOT buy shares in Fortitude Gold Corp. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding the Company's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release.

Contact:

Greg Patterson

719-717-9825

greg.patterson@fortitudegold.com

www.Fortitudegold.com

SOURCE: Fortitude Gold Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/753366/Fortitude-Gold-Announces-First-Quarter-Conference-Call
Toronto, Ontario and Tel Aviv, Israel--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - NurExone Biologic Inc. (TSXV: NRX) (FSE: J90) (NRX.V) (the "Company" or "NurExone"), a biopharmaceutical company developing biologically-guided exosome therapy for patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries, announces that it has granted an aggregate of 1,145,520 incentive stock options ("Options") and 1,275,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") under the Company's equity incentive plan to certain officers and directors of the Company. Each Option is exercisable for one common share of the Company at a price of $0.28 per common share. 827,120 of the Options vest immediately and expire on May 8, 2032. 318,400 of the Options vest over a two-year period in various increments and expire between nine and ten years following the grant date. Each RSUs will vest for one common share of the Company on the date that is 12 months following the date of the grant.

The Company also announces the resignation of Eyal Flom from the board of directors of the Company for personal reasons, effective immediately. NurExone's directors and management thank Mr. Flom for his service and wish him all the best with his future endeavours.

About NurExone Biologic Inc.

NurExone Biologic Inc. is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed pharmaceutical company that is developing a platform for biologically-guided ExoTherapy to be delivered, non-invasively, to patients who suffered traumatic spinal cord injuries.

ExoTherapy was conceptually demonstrated in animal studies at the Technion, Israel Institute of Technology. NurExone is translating the treatment to humans, and the Company holds an exclusive worldwide license from the Technion and Tel Aviv University for the development and commercialization of the technology.



For additional information, please visit www.nurexone.com or follow NurExone on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube.



For further information, please contact:

Dr. Lior Shaltiel

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Phone: +972-52-4803034

Inbar Paz-Benayoun, Adv. Head of Communications and Investor Relations

Phone: +972-52-3966695

Email: info@nurexone.com



Investor Relations (Canada)

Phone: +1 905-347-5569

Email: IR@nurexone.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/165187
CORALVILLE, Iowa, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CIVCO Radiotherapy and Qfix, now together as one company, will exhibit their innovative and patented solutions during the annual ESTRO Congress in Vienna, Austria, 12-16 May 2023. The company encourages attendees to visit booth #200 to experience many of these solutions firsthand. Live product demonstrations will include the Encompass SRS Immobilization System, the proprietary Integrated Shim and Fibreplast thermoplastic solutions, and the Symphony Patient Transfer System.

The company will also have on-display many market-leading solutions and recent innovations focused on improving patient comfort and outcomes, including:

SBRT and All in One Immobilization Systems

The Body Pro-Lok ONE system features the only bridge on the market designed with variable height adjustment and lateral and tilting offset for varying body types. SBRT bridges, belts, and additional customization options are also available with the Alta Multipurpose Device (including Patient Transfer) and the TotalRT All in One Solution.

SRS Immobilization Systems

The Encompass and Solstice SRS Immobilization Systems are highly advanced, non-invasive solutions designed for precisely targeted brain, head, and neck treatments. The Encompass is validated for HyperArc and provides setup confidence and comfort with the Integrated Shim system. Solstice features unique variable pitch capability, increasing setup and treatment flexibility.

Comfort Marker 2.0 Patient Marking System

Dr. Andre Miranda Pires, Institute Portugues de Oncologia do Porto, will be available during the congress to present clinical research using the Comfort Marker 2.0, showing that patient markings produced with this system are more consistent, well-defined, and sharper than traditional lancet tattoos.

Supine and Prone Breastboards

The C-Qual M, Access, and Evolve Supine Breastboards offer many configurations and compatibilities for accurate, reproducible, and comfortable patient positioning and immobilization to treat the thorax, abdomen, and breast range. The New Horizon Prone Breastboard is modular, with many options for prone breast setups.

Proton Solutions, including Pediatric Options

Universal Couchtop and the innovative ProForm and Pediatric ProForm, provide an easy-to-use mask attachment and a homogeneous treatment region optimized for CNS patients. The kVue Couchtop with BoS system has become a proton industry standard for head & neck immobilization with its conformal shape which allows optimal treatment beam angles.

About CIVCO Radiotherapy & Qfix

CIVCO Radiotherapy & Qfix is a global leader in developing high-quality, innovative, patient-centric radiotherapy solutions. The company has over 80 years of combined experience bringing advanced hardware and consumables for patient immobilization and positioning, fiducial markers, couchtops, and patient care products to the market. Visit www.CivcoRT.com and www.Qfix.com for more information.

For further information, please contact:

Shelli Locklear, Director of Marketing, at +1 319.248.6619 or Shelli.Locklear@CivcoRT.com

COPYRIGHT  2023. This press release contains information about products that may or may not be available in particular countries. These products may not be licensed in accordance with Canadian law. Each country has specific laws and regulations governing the commercialization of medical devices and the communication of information regarding medical devices in printed and digital media. Products appearing in this press release or on our website may or may not have received approval, clearance, or marketing authorization by a governmental regulatory body in any particular country or may have received approval, clearance, or marketing authorization for different indications and restrictions in different countries, or may be for investigational use only. Qfix is a registered trademark of Qfix. Access, Alta, Encompass, Integrated Shim, RapidHeat, and kVue, are trademarks of Qfix. BoS, Fibreplast, and Symphony are registered trademarks of Qfix. CIVCO is a registered trademark of CIVCO Medical Solutions. CIVCO Radiotherapy, CIVCO RT, Body Pro-Lok ONE, C-Qual M, Evolve, New Horizon, ProForm, Solstice, TotalRT, and Universal Couchtop are trademarks of Medtec LLC. HyperArc is a trademark of Varian Medical Systems. 2023C1667 Rev. A

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/civco-radiotherapy-and-qfix-showcase-as-one-company-at-estro-2023-301817193.html
Kuros Biosciences AG / Key word(s): Miscellaneous

Annual General Meeting of Kuros Biosciences approves all resolutions



08-May-2023 / 17:18 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, May 8, 2023 - Kuros Biosciences (SIX:KURN), a leader in next generation bone graft technologies, held its Annual General Meeting today. The Annual General Meeting approved the Annual Report, the Annual Financial Statements, and the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year 2022 and took note of the Reports of the Auditors. Shareholders granted discharge to the Board and the persons entrusted with the Management, voted in favor of the proposed appropriation of the Annual Results and approved the compensation for the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee. Clemens van Blitterswijk was re-elected as Chairman and Joost de Bruijn, Scott P. Bruder and Oliver Walker were re-elected as members of the Board. Leanna Caron did not stand for re-election. Oliver Walker was re-elected and Clemens van Blitterswijk was elected as members of the Compensation Committee. The law firm Keller AG, Zurich, was re-elected as independent Proxy. PricewaterhouseCoopers were elected for another one-year term as Kuros' auditor. The Annual General Meeting further approved with the required 2/3 majority the adjustment to the articles of association regarding the increase of the Conditional Share Capital for Bonds or Similar Debt Instruments, and the increase of the Conditional Share Capital for Employees, Persons of Comparable Positions and Board Members. In addition, the Annual General Meeting approved all of the proposed changes to the articles of association reflecting the revised Swiss corporate law which entered into force on January 1, 2023. The Annual General Meeting took place at JED Events, Zurcherstrasse 39E, 8952 Schlieren (Zurich). 16'259'485 shares or 44.47% of a total of 36,561,378 shares were represented. For further information, please contact: Kuros Biosciences AG

Daniel Geiger

Chief Financial Officer

Tel +41 44 733 47 41

daniel.geiger@kurosbio.com LifeSci Advisors

Sandya von der Weid

Investors

+41 78 680 0538

svonderweid@lifesciadvisors.com

About Kuros Biosciences AG

Kuros Biosciences is a fast-growing leader in the development of spinal fusion biologics that ease the burden of back pain. With locations in the United States, Switzerland and the Netherlands, the company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. The company's first commercial product, MagnetOs, is a unique synthetic bone graft that has already been used successfully across three continents and in over 10,000 spinal fusion surgeries. The next candidate in the Kuros pipeline is Fibrin-PTH - the first drug-biologic combination for interbody spinal fusions, currently undergoing a Phase 2 clinical trial in the U.S. For more information on the company, its products and pipeline, visit kurosbio.com . Forward Looking Statements

This media release contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are urged to consider statements that include the words "will" or "expect" or the negative of those words or other similar words to be uncertain and forward-looking. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements include scientific, business, economic and financial factors. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility for updating forward-looking statements or adapting them to future events or developments.

End of Inside Information
VICKSBURG, MS / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Regions Bank:

By Candace Higginbotham and Jeremy King

Regions Bank announced Ginger Donohue, manager of Regions' Beechwood branch in Vicksburg, Mississippi, is the first recipient of the bank's newly launched Lee Ann Petty Heart of Service Award.

Designed as Regions' highest associate honor for community engagement, the Lee Ann Petty Heart of Service Award recognizes exemplary volunteerism that goes above and beyond in supporting the quality of life in communities served by the bank. Longtime Regions associate Lee Ann Petty served as volunteer services coordinator in Regions' Community Affairs division. She passed away on Dec. 30, 2020, following a courageous battle against cancer.

No matter where you look, you will be hard pressed to find anyone who pours more of their heart into serving others than Ginger.

Wendi Boyen, community advocacy and financial wellness manager for Regions

Yet her sincere commitment to serving others continues to inspire thousands of Regions associates in several states.

And because of her own incredible dedication to making a positive impact, Regions is proud to honor Ginger Donohue with the inaugural award that pays tribute to Petty's legacy.

"No matter where you look, you will be hard pressed to find anyone who pours more of their heart into serving others than Ginger," said Wendi Boyen, community advocacy and financial wellness manager for Regions. "Not only do our Vicksburg customers know she is looking out for them, the community knows it, too. Regions Bank's mission is to make life better for the people and places we serve. Ginger Donohue puts our mission into action every single day."

Donohue, a 21-year veteran of Regions Bank, has lived and worked in Vicksburg all her life. To many, she's known as "Ms. Vicksburg." While she supports several organizations, she has a particular soft spot for children - especially those in need.

Donohue organizes an annual school supply drive, gathers toys and gifts for holiday campaigns, raises money for scholarship funds, teaches Bible school and serves as an instructor for Regions Next Step financial wellness classes at Vicksburg High School, among other activities.

In one recent year, she logged nearly 200 volunteerism hours. That's the equivalent of five standard full-time work weeks.

Indeed, as this powerful new video from Regions illustrates, Donohue's life of service has been a natural progression, starting when she was a girl collecting donations door-to-door with her mother for Easterseals and March of Dimes.

Ginger is one of the most humble, giving, loving, supportive people I have ever met in my entire life.

Michele Connelly, executive director of United Way of West Central Mississippi

"My momma was passionate about giving back and was very involved in many nonprofit organizations," Donohue said. "And my daddy had an incredible work ethic. He always said, 'If you have a dollar, give a quarter away. If you don't have any money, then you give your talents and your time.'"

In addition to serving children, Donohue's talents and time are also poured into leadership roles with the Vicksburg Kiwanis Club and the boards of the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce and United Way of West Central Mississippi.

"Ginger is one of the most humble, giving, loving, supportive people I have ever met in my entire life," said Michele Connelly, executive director of United Way of West Central Mississippi. "She's the epitome of someone who understands the importance of giving back - why it's necessary to give back. She's not doing it to put on a resume or move faster up the corporate ladder. She's not doing it to make friends. She's doing it because she knows there are people in the community who need what she can provide."

Donohue credits Regions for giving her the support and encouragement to serve.

"Without Regions, I couldn't do what I do for Vicksburg," she said. "Not only do they 'let' me do what I want to do for the community, they 'want' me to do what I love to do. And my Beechwood branch team is like family, and they get out there and volunteer with me."

Vicksburg may be a smaller city. But Donohue's dedication knows no limits.

I do what I do because it's what Momma, Daddy and God want me to do - and I want to make them proud. And I want to pass that along to my children and my grandchildren.

Ginger Donohue, manager of Regions' Beechwood branch in Vicksburg, Mississippi

"We have one branch in this market, but Ginger makes sure the Vicksburg community knows that Regions is here," said Regions Community Development Manager LoRose Moore. "That's very important for our business, as well as our community engagement."

In recognition of Donohue's service, Regions is making a $2,500 donation to United Way of West Central Mississippi. In addition, Donohue was honored at Regions' 2023 Chairman's Club celebration in Boston, where the company recognized its top performers this week. She will receive a commemorative plaque and five bonus vacation days - to take time for herself after dedicating so much time to others.

"I do what I do because it's what Momma, Daddy and God want me to do - and I want to make them proud," Donohue concluded. "And I want to pass that along to my children and my grandchildren."

About Regions Financial Corporation

Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE:RF), with $154 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates more than 1,250 banking offices and more than 2,000 ATMs. Regions Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Regions Bank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Regions Bank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/regions-bank

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Regions Bank

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/753473/A-Heart-for-All-How-This-Regions-Branch-Manager-Earned-the-Companys-Highest-Honor-for-Serving-Others
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Enbridge

After immigrating to Canada, in the midst of unpacking and settling into a new life, taking in a ballet performance might seem like an unlikely night out.

But Alberta Ballet's Welcoming Newcomers program was created just for this purpose-and, since 2019, has connected over 2,000 new Canadians to the magic of dance by offering free performance tickets and now, recreational dance classes to newcomers in Edmonton, Calgary and other communities across the province.

"There are so many benefits of attending and participating in performing arts activities," says Janis Galloway, Community Impact Officer at Alberta Ballet. "You meet new people, are inspired, and learn more about your new community. We know from our agency partners that immigrants look to arts and culture organizations to learn about their new homes, and we want to be a space for that community connection."

Tickets for the 2022-23 season, which runs from September until May, have brought Welcoming Newcomers program participants to all sorts of ballet productions, from holiday classics such as The Nutcracker to contemporary performances like Love Rocks, which featured music by R&B and hip-hop artists Lenny Kravitz and Kendrick Lamar.

In May, audiences will enjoy the premier of BOTERO, a production from a Colombian-Belgian choreographer that features the iconic characters in the paintings of Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

"While we'e relieving the financial burden on newcomers who might not otherwise be able to afford a ticket to the ballet during their settlement journey, we're also increasing awareness about the performing arts opportunities here in Alberta," says Galloway. "We're ensuring that they know they're welcome to our theatres, and opening up a collaboration channel that values feedback from diverse Albertans."

Enbridge is committed to creating vibrant communities near our operations, by supporting opportunities to be enriched by cultural experiences, and to learn, grow and lead. Our $70,000 Fueling Futures grant to Alberta Ballet allows the dance company to offer about 1,000 tickets for new Canadians to attend performances in Edmonton and Calgary.

"Enbridge has been one of our most valued supporters," says Galloway. "Our community impact goals align so well, and they have been a reliable partner for decades."

Alberta Ballet works with local partners to reach newcomers, gather feedback about their experience in performing arts spaces and distribute tickets. Namely, those partners include Immigrant Services Calgary, the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association, Edmonton Immigrants Services Association, Saranay Filipino-Canadian Association, Action 4 Healthy Communities, and the Institute for Canadian Citizenship Canoo program.

Alberta Ballet also recently launched a new pilot program at its Edmonton and Calgary studios for immigrant youth, which Galloway describes as "the next evolution" to the Welcoming Newcomers program.

"We want to take our impact a step further-from the theatre to our studios, continuing to reduce barriers to participate in dance" she says.

Everyone is encouraged to check out the ballet season for themselves, but those especially inspired by Alberta Ballet's efforts to support the arts and live dance can contribute directly on the website.

"I get a bit choked up thinking about it, because it's an experience that some of us take for granted, and do not realize what a special experience it is to be able to attend a live dance performance or step into a studio and feel like you belong," says Galloway.

"Our performances are unique-they provide a space where everyone enjoys a shared experience that transcends language barriers."

New Canadians take in an Alberta Ballet performance through the company's partnership with the Saranay Filipino-Canadian Association

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/753514/A-New-Kind-of-Movement-for-Canadian-Newcomers
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Warrior Gold Inc. (TSXV: WAR) ("Kirkland Lake" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that further to receiving near unanimous support at the special meeting of shareholders held April 17, 2023, the Company is changing its name (the "Name Change") to "Kirkland Lake Discoveries Corp." and is implementing a share consolidation (the "Consolidation") of the issued and outstanding common shares ("Common Shares") of the Company on the basis of one post-Consolidation Common Share for every four pre-Consolidation Common Shares. The Company is also pleased to provide additional details and updated terms with respect to its previously announced proposed acquisition of the Lucky Strike property and the Company's related private placement offering of subscription receipts.

Name Change and the Consolidation

The Name Change and the Consolidation were approved by the Company's shareholders at the special meeting of its shareholders held on April 17, 2023 and are expected to become effective on or about May 10, 2023, subject to final approval from the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). Following the Name Change and Consolidation, the Company's trading symbol on the TSXV will also change from "WAR" to "KLDC".

The Name Change and Consolidation will not affect the rights of the Company's shareholders, except if the Consolidation would otherwise result in a shareholder holding a fraction of a Common Share. In such cases, no fraction or fractional certificate will be issued and the shareholder will not receive a whole Common Share for each such fraction held. Otherwise, the post-Consolidation Common Shares will have the same attributes as the pre-Consolidation Common Shares.

Letters of transmittal with respect to the Name Change and Consolidation will be mailed out to the Company's registered shareholders after taking effect. All registered shareholders will be required to send their share certificates, along with a properly executed letter of transmittal, to the Company's registrar and transfer agent, Olympia Trust Company, in accordance with the instructions provided in the letter of transmittal. Shareholders who hold their Common Shares through a broker, investment dealer, bank or trust company should contact that nominee or intermediary for assistance in depositing their Common Shares in connection with the Name Change and Consolidation. A copy of the letter of transmittal will be posted on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Acquisition of Lucky Strike Property

As previously announced in its news release dated February 22, 2023, the Company entered into an asset purchase agreement with New Found Gold Corp. (TSXV: NFG) ("NFG") dated February 16, 2023 (the "Purchase Agreement"), pursuant to which Warrior Gold has agreed to acquire from NFG all of the properties comprising its Lucky Strike property (the "Lucky Strike Property") located in the Kirkland Lake gold camp in Ontario, Canada (the "Transaction"). On May 8, 2023, the Company and NFG entered into an amendment to the Purchase Agreement to provide that completion of the Transaction is conditional on the completion of the Offering (as defined below) for minimum gross proceeds of $5,000,000 instead of $10,000,000. Completion of the Transaction is also subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the other conditions of closing provided for in the Purchase Agreement and described in the Company's above-mentioned news release. The Company plans to close the Transaction on or around May 12, 2023.

Terms of Private Placement Financing

In connection with the Transaction, the Company has engaged Canaccord Genuity Corp. (the "Agent") as its agent in connection with its proposed private placement offering (the "Offering") of subscription receipts. Pursuant to the Offering, the Company plans to issue: (i) subscription receipts of the Company (each, a "Non-FT Subscription Receipt") at a price of $0.25 per Non-FT Subscription Receipt (the "Non-FT Offering Price"); and (ii) "flow-through" subscription receipts of the Company (each, an "FT Subscription Receipt", and together with the Non-FT Subscription Receipts, the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.275 per FT Subscription Receipt (the "FT Offering Price", and together with the Non-FT Offering Price, the "Offering Price"), for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of a minimum of $5,000,000.

Upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions (as defined below), each Non-FT Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder thereof to receive one post-Consolidation unit of the Company (each, a "Non-FT Unit"), subject to adjustments. Each Non-FT Unit will consist of one post-Consolidation Common Share and one post-Consolidation Common Share purchase warrant of the Company (each, a "Non-FT Warrant"). Upon satisfaction of the Escrow Release Conditions, each FT Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder thereof to receive one post-Consolidation unit of the Company (each, a "FT Unit", and together with the Non-FT Units, the "Units")), subject to adjustments. Each FT Unit will consist of one post-Consolidation Common Share (a "FT Unit Share") and one post-Consolidation Common Share purchase warrant of the Company (a "FT Warrant", and together with the Non-FT Warrants, the "Warrants"). Each FT Unit Share and FT Warrant will qualify as a "flow-through share" as defined in subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act, R.S.C. 1985 c. 1 (5th Supp.), as amended (the "Tax Act"). Each Warrant will be exercisable by the holder thereof into one post-Consolidation Common Share (each, a "Warrant Share") for a period of two (2) years following the date of the Escrow Release (as defined below) at an exercise price of $0.40 per Warrant Share, subject to adjustments.

The gross proceeds of the Offering less 50% of the Agent's Fee (as defined below) and certain expenses of the Agent (such net amount, the "Escrowed Proceeds") will be placed into escrow and released to the Company, subject the completion or satisfaction of all escrow release conditions, including, among other things, the receipt of all required corporate, shareholder and regulatory approvals in connection with the Transaction, to the satisfaction of the Agent (collectively, the "Escrow Release Conditions") to be set out in a subscription receipt agreement to be entered into one or about the closing date of the Offering between the Company, the Agent and an escrow agent (the "Escrow Agent"). Provided that the Escrow Release Conditions are satisfied or waived (where permitted) prior to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on the date that is 90 days after closing of the Offering (the "Escrow Release Deadline"), the remaining 50% of the Agent's Fee will be released to the Agent from the Escrowed Proceeds, and the balance of the Escrowed Proceeds (less certain expenses of the Escrow Agent) will be released to the Company and the Subscription Receipts shall be automatically converted into the Units (the "Escrow Release"). However, in the event that the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by the Escrow Release Deadline, the Escrowed Proceeds of the Offering will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts and the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled.

In connection with the Offering, the Company has granted the Agent an option to sell up to an additional 15% of the Subscription Receipts, to be allocated in the Agent's discretion, in any combination, between the Non-FT Subscription Receipts and FT Subscription Receipts, at their respective Offering Price, exercisable in whole or in part at any time up to the closing date of the Offering.

The Offering is expected to be conducted pursuant to the terms of an agency agreement to be entered into between the Company and the Agent on or around the closing date of the Offering, which is anticipated to be May 12, 2023. In consideration of the services to be rendered by the Agent in connection with the Offering, the Company has agreed to: (i) pay to the Agent a cash fee (the "Agent's Fee") equal to 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds from sales of the Subscription Receipts under the Offering; and (ii) issue to the Agent that number of broker warrants of the Company (the "Broker Warrants"), exercisable into that number of Broker Warrant Shares at a price per Broker Warrant Share equal to the Non-FT Offering Price for a period from the date of the Escrow Release until 24 months following the date of the Escrow Release, as is equal to 6.0% of the number of Subscription Receipts issued under the Offering.

The Offering is being conducted in all provinces of Canada pursuant to private placement exemptions and in such other jurisdictions as are agreed to by the Company and the Agent. The Offering remains subject to the approval of the TSXV.

The securities offered have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

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 date[1]. 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.

For additional information please contact:

Daniele Spethmann, P.Geo.

President & CEO

Warrior Gold Inc.

+1 647 344-3433

dspethmann@warriorgoldinc.com

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 Transaction, the Offering, the Name Change and the Consolidation, regulatory approvals, 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 the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of Warrior Gold's management, there can be no assurance that the Transaction, the Offering, the Name Change and the Consolidation (or any of them) will occur, or that if any such transaction does occur, it will be completed on the terms described in the Company's in this news release its news release dated February 22, 2023, except as updated in this news release.

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 Transaction, the Offering, the Name Change and the Consolidation, 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] https://www.agnicoeagle.com/English/exploration/exploration-projects/Kirkland-Lake-project/default.aspx.

Not for distribution to United States news wire services or for dissemination in the United States

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165244
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Edison International

Port of Long Beach terminal operator SSA Terminals worked with SCE and other partners to electrify nine cranes used to transport imported containers.

Energized by Edison

By Ben Gallagher ENERGIZED by Edison Writer

The Port of Long Beach is one of the world's busiest ports. Handling more than 9 million 20-foot containers and cargo valued at $200 billion each year, port operators move about 90 million metric tons of cargo through their terminals annually. One-third of the loaded containers moving through California ports and nearly one of every five in the U.S. pass through the Port of Long Beach every year. Terminal operators at the ports are making significant advances in transitioning to all-electric power.

SSA Terminals, which operate three berths out of a 201-acre site at the port, worked with Southern California Edison to retrofit its existing cranes to be entirely electric, converting nine 1,000-horsepower diesel engines to fully electrified versions. The cranes are used to transport imported containers, which are offloaded and stored at the terminal, to trucks that deliver them to logistical hubs or their ultimate destination.

The benefits were almost immediate.

"We were burning about 10 gallons of diesel per hour, so that's our main cost savings right there," said Scott Hainlen, superintendent for SSA Terminals. Beyond cost benefits were those that extended to their employees. "The operators definitely like driving these machines. They're not sitting up there next to a smokestack anymore, and they are much quieter."

Successfully integrating the new machines into their existing operations took some firsthand experience. The new cranes initially reacted more quickly than their diesel counterparts, so SSA's crane operators made the necessary adjustments, and now they're working seamlessly. Ultimately, Hainlen said that they've seen a net increase in both efficiency and operator comfort.

Hainlen expects other port operators to make the change to zero-emission machines soon as well, as the port aims to meet that threshold by 2030. The knowledge and experience gained through this project will extend to those operators, and SCE will play a critical role in enabling their transitions.

SSA also worked with SCE to electrify 33 terminal tractors, which are used to move containers around the terminal yard.

"The Port of Long Beach is an incredible economic driver not only for our region but for California and the entire nation," said Michael Bushey, director of SCE's Business Customer Division. "We take pride in our role in helping the state reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2045, and working with the Port of Long Beach operators to reach zero emissions is a critical part of that process."



Each of those future projects will bring the port closer to its 2030 zero-emissions target, and achieving that goal will mark a significant milestone on the Pathway to 2045, SCE's groundbreaking analysis of the steps California must take to clean the electric grid and reach carbon neutrality.

To learn more about SCE's clean energy initiatives, visit edison.com/clean-energy.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Edison International on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Edison International

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/edison-international

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Edison International

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/753535/Long-Beach-Port-Operators-Lead-the-Way-to-Zero-Emissions-Goal
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Zimtu Capital Corp. (TSXV:ZC)(FSE:ZCT1) (the "Company" or "Zimtu") announces it has signed an agreement with G2 Energy Corp. to provide its ZimtuADVANTAGE program (https://www.zimtu.com/zimtu-advantage/).

ZimtuADVANTAGE is a program designed to provide opportunities, guidance, cost savings and assistance to clients covering multiple aspects of being a public company. The services of this program include the following: Zoom with Zimtu; Zimtu Connect - all major news/events/important updates sent to email distribution list, Lead Generation campaigns; Blog Posts; Digital Awareness campaigns; Influencer Marketing; Social Media Distribution of company news/important updates through Zimtu accounts including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube & Instagram; Rockstone Reports & Distribution; Video News Releases - major news releases will be translated to video format, which will be distributed on all social media platforms and to Zimtu Connect subscribers; and Zimtu Question Period.

About G2 Energy Corp.

G2 Energy is a junior oil and gas producer listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The company's primary focus is to acquire and develop additional overlooked, low-risk, high-return opportunities in the oil and gas sector. G2's strategy is to obtain a portfolio of risk-managed production and development opportunities onshore, United States. In May, 2022, G2 acquired the Masten unit in the Permian basin, Texas. The Masten unit is the company's first producing asset. G2 is targeting top-tier projects with operating netbacks and infrastructure facilities which will fast-track overall oil and gas production growth.

About Zimtu Capital

Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information visit: www.zimtu.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP.

"David Hodge"

David Hodge

President & Director

Tel: 604.681.1568

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.

SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/753579/Zimtu-Capital-Announces-Agreement-with-G2-Energy-Corp
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Palladium One Mining (TSXV: PDM) (FSE: 7N11) (OTCQB: NKORF) ("Palladium One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, in connection with the Company's recently completed acquisition of MetalCorp Limited ("MetalCorp") by way of statutory plan of arrangement under the provisions of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario), the Company intends to delist the common shares in the capital of MetalCorp from the TSX Venture Exchange, effective at the close of business on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

About Palladium One

Palladium One Mining Inc. (TSXV: PDM) is focused on discovering environmentally and socially conscious Metals for Green Transportation. A Canadian mineral exploration and development company, Palladium One is targeting district scale, platinum-group-element (PGE)-copper-nickel deposits in Canada and Finland. The Lantinen Koillismaa (LK) Project in north-central Finland, is a PGE-copper-nickel project that has existing NI43-101 Mineral Resources, while both the Tyko and Canalask high-grade nickel-copper projects are located in Ontario and the Yukon, Canada, respectively. Follow Palladium One on LinkedIn, Twitter, and at www.palladiumoneinc.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Derrick Weyrauch"

President & CEO, Director

For further information contact:

Derrick Weyrauch, President & CEO

Email: info@palladiumoneinc.com



Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This press release is not an offer or a solicitation of an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America. The common shares of Palladium One Mining Inc. have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration.

Information set forth in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future, not past events. In this context, forward-looking statements often address a company's expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", and "intend", statements that an action or event "may", "might", "could", "should", or "will" be taken or occur, or other similar expressions. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date that statements are made and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165262
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - OBSIDIAN ENERGY LTD. (TSX: OBE) (NYSE American: OBE) ("Obsidian Energy", the "Company", "we", "us" or "our") provides an update on operations and employees impacted by recent Alberta wildfires.

We view the protection and safety of our people, local communities, and the environment with the highest priority. As a precautionary measure, we have temporarily shut-in approximately 11,100 boe/d of production in our Pembina area in Central Alberta in response to the recent Alberta wildfires, with a plan to restart production once safe and permitted to do. Over the weekend, production shut-in volumes peaked at approximately 15,500 boe/d for a few hours on Saturday night, May 6th and into Sunday morning, May 7th, when the Peace River area fields at Harmon-Valley South, Seal, Walrus and Nampa were taken offline to address the threat of a wildfire near them. The Peace River volumes are back on production as the threat has currently subsided. To our knowledge, there has been no damage to the Company's assets or key infrastructure.

All employees and contractors in the affected areas have been accounted for with approximately 42 Obsidian Energy staff and families impacted by the wildfires evacuated from the Drayton Valley and Peace River areas. We are currently supporting local officials, regulators, and industry partners in the response to the wildfires. The Company will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide an update when appropriate.

We would like to thank our staff, industry partners and emergency responders for their tireless work to protect our communities. Our thoughts are with our employees, their families, and our neighbors during this difficult time.

ADDITIONAL READER ADVISORIES

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements or information (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the "safe harbour" provisions of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "budget", "may", "will", "project", "could", "plan", "intend", "should", "believe", "outlook", "objective", "aim", "potential", "target" and similar words suggesting future events or future performance. In particular, this document contains forward-looking statements pertaining to, without limitation, the following: our plans for when shut-in production can be restarted; and that we will continue to monitor the situation and provide an update when appropriate.

With respect to forward-looking statements contained in this document, the Company has made assumptions regarding, among other things: our ability to restart production; that there has been no damage to assets and key infrastructure; that we are able to monitor the situation by getting accurate and timely information; our ability to execute our plans as described herein and in our other disclosure documents and the impact that the successful execution of such plans will have on our Company and our stakeholders; our ability to execute our capital programs as planned without significant adverse impacts from various factors beyond our control, including extreme weather events, such as wild fires and flooding, infrastructure access and delays in obtaining regulatory approvals and third party consents; our ability to conduct an investigation to better understand the situation; and our ability to obtain equipment and staffing in a timely manner to carry out plans and the costs thereof.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this document, and the assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are made, are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements included in this document, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the forward-looking statements contained herein will not be correct, which may cause our actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: whether the Company will receive timely and accurate information regarding the wildfires; that there is damage to the Company's asset and key infrastructure; that production will be shut-in longer than expected or have to be shut-in again as wildfires return; whether the Company is in compliance with all regulatory requirements; the possibility that we change our 2023 capital plans in response to internal and external factors, including those described herein; the possibility that the Company will not be able to continue to successfully execute our business plans and strategies in part or in full, and the possibility that some or all of the benefits that the Company anticipates will accrue to our Company and our stakeholders as a result of the successful execution of such plans and strategies do not materialize; and unanticipated operating events or environmental events outside these wildfires that can reduce production or cause production to be shut-in or delayed (including extreme cold during winter months, wildfires and flooding in other areas). Additional information on these and other factors that could affect Obsidian Energy, or its operations or financial results, are included in the Company's Annual Information Form (See "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements" therein) which may be accessed through the SEDAR website (www.sedar.com), EDGAR website (www.sec.gov) or Obsidian Energy's website. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

Unless otherwise specified, the forward-looking statements contained in this document speak only as of the date of this document. Except as expressly required by applicable securities laws, we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Obsidian Energy shares are listed on both the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada and the NYSE American in the United States under the symbol "OBE".

All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

CONTACT

OBSIDIAN ENERGY

Suite 200, 207 - 9th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta T2P 1K3

Phone: 403-777-2500

Toll Free: 1-866-693-2707

Website: www.obsidianenergy.com;

Investor Relations:

Toll Free: 1-888-770-2633

E-mail: investor.relations@obsidianenergy.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165267
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / South Pole



1. What is CORSIA?

CORSIA is the world's first mandatory sector-specific compliance carbon pricing scheme. The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) is a global scheme to ensure the low carbon growth of the international aviation sector from 2020 onward. Agreed in October 2016 by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, it obliges most airlines to monitor and report their emissions from 2019 and to purchase emission reduction units generated by carbon projects in other sectors to compensate for any growth in the sector's CO2 emissions above 2020 levels from 2021.

To comply with CORSIA, the international aviation sector has several options (baskets of measures):

The surrender of eligible carbon credits

The consumption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)

Improved ground operations, air traffic management, and infrastructure and the deployment of more fuel-efficient aircraft

2. Does CORSIA affect your airline?

CO2 emissions monitoring and reporting is mandatory for all CORSIA-regulated operators from 1st January 2019. Offsetting will not be mandatory for a few years, but if you operate internationally, it is very likely it will affect your airline particularly if you meet the following criteria:

Aircraft weighs more than 5,700kg on takeoff

10,000 tonnes of CO2 emitted annually on international routes

Operating for more than three years

Both states connecting the route your airline is flying are participating in the Pilot or First Phase of the scheme

Many countries have already signed up to the Pilot Phase of the scheme for 2021-2023. Read more here.

3. What do you need to do to comply with CORSIA and when do you need to do it?

2019-2020: Monitoring and reporting

All qualifying airlines in ICAO member countries were obliged to begin monitoring reporting emissions on 1st January 2019. The final deadline to submit a monitoring plan was 28th February 2019. Operators had to hire an accredited third party to verify their emission report before submitting it to the relevant national authority by 30th May 2020.

Data collected in 2019 and 2020 was used to establish an emissions baseline and help determine offset requirements for 2021.

Starting from 2022, emission reports for the previous year are due by 30th April.

2021-2026: Offsetting in the early phases

CORSIA makes use of a route-based approach, meaning that compliance obligations apply to flights between CORSIA-participating countries. Participation in the market-based mechanism is voluntary between 2021 and 2026. Countries with large international aviation markets opting into the scheme during this six-year period include the UK, the U.S. and Australia. Notable non-participants are China, Russia, India (joining from 2027) and Brazil.

In any year from 2021 when international aviation CO2 emissions covered by CORSIA exceed the average baseline emissions, these emissions must be compensated for via the surrender of eligible carbon credits. Between 2021 and 2029, sectoral crediting obligations are being divided among participating airplane operators based solely on the sector's global average growth factor of emissions in a given year. Beginning in 2030, crediting obligations will be determined based on the average growth factor in emissions not only of the sector but also of individual operators.

2027-2035: Mandatory offsetting in Second Phase

Beginning in 2027, participation in CORSIA will become mandatory for most states and so apply to almost all international routes. The only exemptions after 2027 will be those to and from states with low aviation activity, or classified as "Least Developed" "Small Island Developing"or "Landlocked Developing".

Every three years starting in 2025, operators will have to acquire and retire the number of emissions units that match their offsetting obligation for the relevant compliance period.

CORSIA Baseline

Originally, the baseline that was to determine the cap on CO2 emissions for the entire 2021-2035 period was to be based on the average of international aviation's 2019 and 2020 emissions. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and airlines' lobbying for this baseline determination to be modified, on 30 June 2020, the ICAO Council announced that, for the scheme's pilot phase, the value of 2019 emissions would be used for 2020 emissions to avoid inappropriate economic burden on the international aviation industry. Consequently, offsetting obligations are likely to be rather minimal during the pilot phase.

In October 2022, the ICAO Assembly agreed to a new CORSIA baseline for the first and second phases of the scheme: 85% of the international aviation sector's CO2 emissions in 2019. This lowering of the baseline--relative to that which applies in the scheme's Pilot Phase - will lead to larger offsetting obligations for the sector than what it currently faces.

How can South Pole support you?

We can support you to build an offset procurement strategy for CORSIA . We can model your offset demand, help navigate offsets eligibility rules, determine best sourcing pathways and assist you in offset tenders.

. We can model your offset demand, help navigate offsets eligibility rules, determine best sourcing pathways and assist you in offset tenders. We offer you offsets for CORSIA compliance from our project portfolio , the world's largest, at competitive pricing.

, the world's largest, at competitive pricing. We help you engage with environmentally conscious passengers through voluntary carbon offset programs.

We develop carbon calculators built into your checkout process, assist in engagement campaigns to increase take-up rates and offer high-quality offsets.

built into your checkout process, assist in engagement campaigns to increase take-up rates and offer high-quality offsets. We provide CORSIA workshops, from basic 101 CORSIA to customised learning sessions for your Airline.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from South Pole on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: South Pole

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/south-pole

Email: info@3blmedia.com



SOURCE: South Pole

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/753591/What-Is-CORSIA-and-How-Does-It-Affect-Your-Airline
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - Australia will on Tuesday release March numbers for retail sales, highlighting a busy day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. Sales are expected to add 0.4 percent on month, up from 0.2 percent in February. For the first quarter of 2023, sales are expected to sink 0.5 percent on quarter after easing 0.2 percent in the three months prior. Japan will see March numbers for household sending, with forecasts suggesting an increase of 1/5 percent on month and 0.4 percent on year. That follows the 2.4 percent monthly drop and the 1.6 percent yearly gain in February. China will provide April figures for imports, exports and trade balance. Imports are expected to sink 5.0 percent on year after easing 1.4 percent in March. Exports are called higher by an annual 8.0 percent, down from 14.8 percent in the previous month. The trade surplus is pegged at $74.30 billion, down from $88.19 billion a month earlier. Malaysia will release March numbers for industrial production, with forecasts suggesting an increase of 0.5 percent on year, slowing from 3.6 percent in February. Indonesia will see April results for its consumer confidence index; in March, the index score was 123.3. New Zealand will provide April data for electronic card retail sales; in March, sales were up 0.7 percent on month and 15.5 percent on year. Copyright(c) 2023 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Chinese defense minister meets Pakistan's navy chief

Xinhua) 16:05, May 08, 2023

BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Li Shangfu met with Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi, chief of the naval staff of the Pakistan Navy, in Beijing on Monday.

Li said the relations between the militaries of the two countries are an important part of China-Pakistan relations, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including the two navies, has achieved good results.

Li said the militaries of the two countries should expand new exchange areas, create new cooperation highlights, and work together to safeguard the security interests of both countries and the region.

Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi said the Pakistani Navy is willing to establish a closer cooperation mechanism with the Chinese Navy, further deepen pragmatic exchanges and cooperation, and jointly safeguard regional security and stability.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Cullgen, Inc., a San Diego, CA and Shangai, China-based biotechnology company developing small molecule therapeutics based on its proprietary uSMITE platform of targeted protein degradation technology, raised $40m in funding.

A $35m series C financing round was led by AstraZeneca-CICC Venture Capital Partnership (AZ-CICC), and included Sincere Capital, Voyagers Capital, Wuxi Capital Group (subject to pending ODI approval), as well as existing shareholder GNI Group Ltd. In conjunction with the series C round, AZ-CICC will have the right to designate a representative to join Cullgens board of directors.

Concurrent with this financing, GNI Group Ltd. has elected to exercise its outstanding warrants for Cullgen stock, resulting in an additional $5m in proceeds for Cullgen.

The total $40m financing will support the development of the companys technology platform and internal pipeline of targeted protein degraders in oncology and other diseases.

Led by Dr. Ying Luo, Chairman and CEO, Cullgen is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development of first-in-class new chemical entities (NCEs) for the treatment of diseases lacking effective therapeutic approaches. The company applies its proprietary uSMITE (ubiquitin-mediated, small molecule -induced target elimination) platform to expand the drug design paradigm beyond functional site inhibition, enabling the targeting of historically undruggable proteins for selective destruction. Leveraging years of work by its founders on the proteasome system and key discoveries regarding its functionality, Cullgen has generated multiple highly potent, selective, and bioavailable targeted protein degrader compounds that utilize proprietary novel E3 ligands.

FinSMEs

08/04/2023
R2, a Mexico City-based embedded lending infrastructure company in Latin America, closed a $100m warehouse facility.

The financing was provided by Community Investment Management, a global impact-focused investment manager.

The transaction provides the funding capacity to scale and strengthen the companys lending capabilities and partnerships.

Led by Roger Larach, Co-Founder & CEO, R2 is a key player in the sector launching multiple embedded lending partnerships and originating over $20m in Revenue-Based Financing and B2B Buy Now, Pay Later to over 6,000 small and medium business users (SMBs) in Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Ecuador. Through its integration with technology companies in the payments and food delivery sectors, R2 empowers SMB users across the region to access the capital they need to grow and thrive.

The warehouse facility follows a $15m Series A, led by Gradient Ventures, Googles AI-focused venture fund. The growth, institutional capital base, and modern software infrastructure establishes R2 as the technology partner for companies seeking to embed financial solutions in Latin America.

FinSMEs

08/05/2023
Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Viji Venkatesh, Anjana Jayaprakash, Dhwani Rajesh, Vineeth, Althaf Salim, Avyukth Menon, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, Indrans, Mukesh, Innocent, Chhaya Kadam, Mohan Agashe, Shanthi Krishna, Cameos: Ahaana Krishna, Naslen and Shruti Ramachandran

Director: Akhil Sathyan

Language: Malayalam

Sometimes, a script is so rich and unconventional, that its a challenge to pinpoint the genre it occupies and pin down the basic storyline. Sometimes though, the reason why a film is hard to describe is because the writing never settles down. Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum (Pachu and the Magic Lamp) wanders endlessly, and is redeemed largely by Fahadh Faasils phenomenal comic timing, supplemented in the initial portions by Althaf Salim. If all over the place were a genre, thats the slot into which this film would fit. Fahadh to the rescue could be another.

Written, edited and directed by Akhil Sathyan, Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum opens in Mumbai where Prashanth a.k.a. Pachu, a Malayali man in his mid-30s, runs an Ayurveda centre. Pachu skates through life with the minimum possible effort. Since his business is faring well (and no doubt since his family in Kerala is well off), he has the choice not to strain himself too much, except in his quest for a wife. He has already dated a woman, broken up with her, evolved as a consequence and gone through a few dozen pennu kaanal routines (seeing potential brides, a practice that those familiar with arranged marriages know well).

On a trip to Kerala, Pachu makes a commitment to a wealthy contact, Riyas (Vineeth), that he will escort the mans mother (Viji Venkatesh) on a train back to Mumbai. This leads to a twist that forces Pachu to rise above his innate inertia. Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum then switches from what seemed like a comedy drama to a potpourri of elements. Humour remains in Pachus dialogues and conduct, but now the mix includes suspense, crime, philosophising, romance, an old ladys resolve and a teenager called Nidhi (Dhwani Rajesh) who wants to study.

Perhaps Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum is meant to be an exploration of the what-ifs of human existence. What if Pachu had not agreed to meet a girl in Kerala? What if he had not missed a flight? What if he had not agreed to accompany Ummachi? What if he had not woken up on that train? Theres promise in the idea, but in a bid to examine these forks in the road, Akhil piles too much on to his script  too many characters, too many tangents, too many details that, in hindsight, add nothing to Pachus journey or the plot in its entirety.

Take the child (Avyukth Menon)  a returning Sabarimala pilgrim  that Pachu and Ummachi encounter on the train from Kerala. Avyukth is a natural, but looking back, it would not have mattered a jot if the boy had been erased from the screenplay or edited out after shooting. It might be argued that his funniness was his contribution to the proceedings. This line would be valid for, say, Indrans tiny role because he is cast against type and that in itself throws up a surprise. Or the late Innocent as the man who insists on Pachu going for a pennu kaanal despite his tight schedule  the veteran actor is a hoot in that brief appearance, but he also serves to take the story forward. The episode featuring him has a domino effect on Pachus world. Likewise, Ahaana Krishna and Shruti Ramachandrans cameos serve a purpose because the very decision to cast familiar faces in their parts is amusing, besides the fact that the section involving Ahaana is crucial. The boy on the train, however, has near-zero effect on the plotline.

Akhil, is clearly trying to achieve a slice-of-life feel that Malayalam cinema excels at, but with a distinctive treatment and positivity associated with his father, the great Sathyan Anthikad. He is bang on with his sense of fun, does well with the characterisation of Pachu and Riyas, and builds a slow burn of attraction between two personable individuals. However, he weighs down what works with so much lard that sizeable stretches of the narrative become tedious.

Even the title is more pretentious than profound.

In his feature debut, Akhil confuses naturalism with aimless meanderings and superfluities. For instance, Pachus mother surfacing in the finale, that too played by Shanthi Krishna, is not only unnecessary, that scene in which she gazes emotionally at Nidhi is inexplicable and odd. The film also gets several people to give the audience irrelevant information about themselves. Case in point: Hamsadhwani played by Anjana Jayaprakash proves to be significant, but we are also informed of her absent housemates name and profession for no good cause, which might have been okay if she were the only one, but she is not. As character after character does this through the film and so many are introduced in a way that suggests they will matter (the doctor at Pachus centre, the boy on a cycle in the introductory montage) only to be glossed over or discarded later, the narrative feels increasingly over-crowded despite its evident attempt at a relaxed pace. In contrast, Nidhis background, which is vital, is recounted with lack of clarity through a flashback overlaid with a song, and her family is sketchily written.

The unthinking elongation begins at the beginning, with a Hindi song played over the credits. If the goal was to represent Mumbais multiculturalism within a Malayalam film, then a multiplicity of languages, at the very least a blend of English, Marathi and Hindi, would have been more accurate. The lyrics are not even in Mumbaiyya Hindi, but even if they were, the song would have been redundant. First, Mumbai ultimately proves to be marginal in Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum, so why was so much time wasted on exploring the city in that preface? Second, we are pointedly shown Pachus colleague (Althaf Salim) newly arrived from Kerala and struggling with this tongue. When it comes to language, Malayalam cinema has a split personality. On the one hand, Hindi and English dialogues and songs are mindlessly slapped on to many mainstream films. On the other hand, beauties like Ariyippu and Thankam have turned the well-thought-out inclusion of various languages in the same script into an art form. Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum course corrects on this front after messing up at the start. The film is consistent and far smarter in its use of Sharan Velayudhans cinematography to convey the differing physical and class-determined topographies of the three states it visits.

Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum as a whole is an uneven experience, buoyant in the first half, solid with its humour and Pachus coming of age, wavering pretty much everywhere else. The women who enable Pachus evolution  Ummachi, Hamsadhwani and Nidhi  are played by actors with impressive personalities who are not given the benefit of the attentive writing that the male protagonist gets, despite their considerable screen time.

Hamsadhwani is the only female character who has some degree of interiority and an arc, and Anjana Jayaprakash does well enough in the role to prove that she has a capacity for more than this script offers her. Althaf Salim is brilliant at evoking laughs, but disappears after a while. Vineeth nimbly navigates a sudden shift in Riyas seeming one-dimensionality at an unexpected moment.

The entire enterprise rests on Fahadh though. When the narrative descends towards grimness, Pachu lightens the mood, but never by trivialising his circumstances, and Fahadh exploits this nuance to the hilt, transitioning smoothly and at lightning speed between tones. Since Akhil Sathyans strength is the writing of comedy, that is when the actor shines brightest in this film.

Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum lifts off the ground whenever it taps Fahadh the comedian, only to nosedive repeatedly under the weight of a surfeit of sub-plots, characters and an information overload that is mistaken for depth.

Rating: 2.5 (out of 5 stars)

Pachuvum Athbutha Vilakkum is in theatres

Anna M.M. Vetticad is an award-winning journalist and author of The Adventures of an Intrepid Film Critic. She specialises in the intersection of cinema with feminist and other socio-political concerns. Twitter: @annavetticad, Instagram: @annammvetticad, Facebook: AnnaMMVetticadOfficial

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Sunday is usually a day of fun and frolic. Its a day of rest and when families unite and bond. However, this Sunday turned into a tragedy for countless families in Keralas Malappuram after a boat sank, killing 22 people on board.

On Sunday evening around 7.30 pm, a double-decker tourist boat near the Thoovaltheeram beach overturned and capsized, killing 22 people, including seven children and eight others undergoing treatment at various hospitals. Officials from the National Disaster Response Force and the Coast Guard are at the accident site searching for other survivors in the water.

The state government has declared an official mourning on Monday for the victims, and cancelled all official functions for the day. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also visited the affected in the hospital and condoled with the families who lost their loved ones.

However, this isnt the first time that Kerala has witnessed a boating tragedy. We take a closer look at past instances and what went wrong in this recent disaster.

Sunday gone wrong

On Sunday, the double-decker tourist boat set out sailing around 7.30 pm, the last trip of the day, when it capsized, leading to the deaths of 22 people on board. According to eyewitnesses and people on board, there were more than 40 people on the boat at the time of the tragedy  way more than the capacity of the vessel.

Moreover, according to a report published by Asia News, the tourist boat was originally a fishing boat that had been modified into a boatyard. However, officials are still trying to ascertain how the modified boat received a tourist licence. The police have registered a case against the boat owner, identified as P Nasar, for culpable homicide and are looking for him after he went missing.

Initial investigations also reveal that people on the boat were not given life-jackets, a mandate on such trips. There was also no safety certificate granted to the boat.

Rafeeque, one of the passengers who were rescued, was quoted as telling Indian Express that there were no lifejackets and no other safety features on the ship. Moreover, the rescue was delayed as there was no boat in the vicinity.

Initially, it was the locals and the fishermen of the area that began search operations and it was much later that the state authorities and a team of NDRF arrived at the spot. The rescue operations were hampered by the lack of lights and narrow roads to the spot, delaying the movement of the rescued to nearby hospitals.

After the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his condolences over the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs two lakh to the kin of the deceased.

Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi  PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 7, 2023



Interestingly, Dr Muralee Thummarukudy, an international expert in disaster response, had predicted deaths of people in a houseboat accident just 10 days before the tragedy. In a Facebook post, he had issued a warning about the houseboat industry in Kerala and said that this extended to the tourism boats.

He added that safety briefings on board, such as vital information about potential problems and offering solutions during a journey, would be helpful. Wont there be more professionalism in the sector if tourism boat owners and government machinery worked in tandem, he was quoted as saying.

Past boating tragedies

Sundays disaster is yet another incident that has occurred in Keralas waters. Over the past two decades, the state has witnessed several tragic boat accidents that have claimed the lives of many.

Before Sunday, the most recent boating accident had taken place in 2013 when four tourists from Tamil Nadu died after a house-boat carrying tourists overturned in the backwaters at Alappuzha.

Prior to that, in September of 2009 at least 45 tourists were killed in one of the worst tragedies in Kerala when a boat carrying tourists sank at the famous Periyar Thekkady lake.

A similar boating accident also claimed the lives of 14 children and three teachers in 2007 when a boat sank in a reservoir near Thattekkad bird sanctuary in Ernakulam district.

Also read: PM Modi unveils India's first water metro in Kochi: What's so special about it?

One of the oldest boating accidents in Kerala dates back to 1924. In this unfortunate incident, 24 passengers, including the states most revered poet Mahakavi Kumaran Asan, died when a boat from Kollam to Kottayam sank at Palana.

Reasons for boating accidents

One of the primary reasons for these accidents reoccurring in Kerala is the quality of ships that are used. Most of the ferries in the water are unregistered as well as very old and rickety.

As seen in Sundays instance, overcrowding is another reason why such tragedies take place. Passengers and boat operators disregard safety considerations and travel in overloaded vessels leading to mishaps. Theres also the human factor involved. In many cases, the boat operators are poor and illiterate. There is no formal training in vessel operations. They are not aware of the safety procedures that need to be followed in case of emergency situations. In some cases, the passengers excitement, panic situations, lack of awareness.

Take the Thekkady boat disaster as an example of this: On 30 September 2009, a double-decker passenger boat sank in Lake Thekkady in Kerala, killing 45 tourists. Reports had stated that the accident occurred when a large number of passengers rushed to one side of the boat to see a herd of bison which emerged from the forest.

With inputs from agencies

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The BJP has moved the Election Commission against Congress and its former president Sonia Gandhi.

The party has called for action against Sonia and for the Congress to be derecognised.

A BJP delegation headed by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll watchdog.

Karnataka is a very important member State in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member State of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous and pernicious consequences, the party said.

The BJP also submitted a copy of the Congress tweet quoting Ms. Gandhi on the issue.

Lets take a look at the row:

What happened?

The Congress, referring to Sonias poll speech, on Saturday tweeted that the party would not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnatakas reputation, sovereignty or integrity.

CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnatakas reputation, sovereignty or integrity. pic.twitter.com/W6HjKYWjLa  Congress (@INCIndia) May 6, 2023



However, according to Indian Express, Sonia did not mention the word sovereignty in her speech.

I would like to tell them on your behalf, Dont think the people of Karnataka are this powerless and weak. People of Karnataka are not dependent on anyones blessings, but trust their hard work and resolve. People of Karnataka are not cowards or greedy that you can mislead them, Sonia said.

What is BJP saying?

The BJP is arguing that the Congress wants to separate Karnataka from India.

The preamble to the Constitution reads: WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLICIN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.

Its positioning at the beginning of the Preamble spells out its importance in the Constitution, as per Indian Express.

Such a tweet is well-considered evil design to provoke the staunch nationalists, peace-loving, progressive and globally recognised people of Karnataka. The intent apparently is to disturb the equanimity, harmony and peace that obtains in Karnataka just to garner the votes and support of some select communities or groups, whose sole purpose and intent is to disrupt the very being of the Indian State, the BJP told the Election Commission in its complaint as per NDTV.

Karnataka is a very important member state in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member State of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous & pernicious consequences, the letter further read.

Describing this statement as shocking and unacceptable, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Sonia has violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making such a statement.

Karandlaje, Convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, also requested the EC to issue direction to register a FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for Indias independence. It is an insult to crores of patriotic Kannadigas, who swear by India and cherish their Indianness, said the Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.

The statement would lead to division on the basis of language and statehood, the complaint alleged.

The BJP also demanded that the Congress should apologise for its advertisement listing corruption rates in the state, between 2019 and 2023, while attacking the BJP government.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a public meeting in Mysuru district, claimed that the disease of the tukde-tukde gang had reached the Congresss top level.

When it comes to working against Indias interests, Congresss royal family will be at the forefront. I want to speak about a serious issue here, I want to say it as there is a lot of pain in my heart. This country can never forgive such a game. This family, to influence the politics in the country, is encouraging foreign forces to interfere, Modi alleged.

Modi accused the Congress of secretly meeting foreign diplomats who hate India and repeatedly indulging in activities that insult Indias sovereignty, and said they were not ashamed of it.

Stating that in this Karnataka election, Congress shahi parivar had gone a step ahead, breaking all the limits and crushing the feelings of the country.

Modi added, Not only Karnataka, I want to tell this to the entire country with a lot of pain that in this election Congresss shahi parivar yesterday came to Karnataka and said that they want to protect the sovereignty of Karnataka.

Karnatakas sovereignty, you know what is the meaning of it? They have sat in Parliament for so many years, they have taken oath on Indias Constitution, and they say this When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India, he claimed.

BJPs Amit Malviya then tweeted:

Sonia Gandhi spoke about Karnatakas sovereignty A sovereign by definition is an independent nation. Does Congress think of Karnataka as independent from India? This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for Indias independence. It is an insult to pic.twitter.com/ydPtAyI9mr  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 7, 2023

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

Anurag Thakur on Monday claimed that Congress parliamentary party chief Sonia Gandhis reference to Karnatakas sovereignty has revealed the partys deep conspiracy to disintegrate India.

By referring to Karnatakas sovereignty, Sonia Gandhi Ji, you have revealed the Congress deep conspiracy to disintegrate India, Thakur said on Twitter.

He said people have not forgotten how the Congress government, going against public sentiment, mischievously introduced a separate flag for Karnataka to mock the BJPs allegiance to the One Nation, One Flag.

Ahead of the 2018 assembly polls, the then Chief Minister Siddaramaiah-led Congress government had approved a new design for a state flag for Karnataka and sent a proposal to the central government.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on 10 May and the counting of votes will take place on 13 May.

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Indias National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval met his United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE) counterparts as well as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday (7 May) in Saudi Arabia to reportedly discuss a major joint infrastructure project. According to a statement released by the White House, US NSA Jake Sullivan also held bilateral meetings with the Crown Prince, Doval and UAE national security adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan to deliberate on bilateral and regional matters.

Commenting on the meetings, the White House said they aimed to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world.

During the meeting, they (Saudi Arabia) discussed means to strengthen relations and ties between the three countries (India, UAE and the US) in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region, state-run Saudi Press Agency said, as per The Tribune.

Why did NSA Ajit Doval travel to Saudi Arabia and why was it a significant visit? We explain.

Ajit Doval in Saudi Arabia

While the White House did not elaborate on the meetings held in the Middle Eastern country, a media report said that the NSAs met the Crown Prince to possibly discuss a proposal to connect countries in West Asia or the Middle East through a network of rails. These Gulf and Arab nations are also likely to be linked to India via shipping lanes from ports in the region, reported US news outlet Axios.

A US official told the outlet earlier that the project will be on the agenda of the meetings between the NSAs.

The White House is pushing this proposal in order to counter Chinas increasing influence in the Middle East, which is a significant part of Beijings Belt and Road initiative, the report added.

Notably, US NSA will meet his Indian counterpart again this month on the margins of the Quad Summit in Australia.

How it came to be?

According to Axios, the proposition for the new initiative came up during talks conducted over the past 18 months in a forum called I2U2, which consists of India, the US, Israel and the UAE.

The forum was set up in late 2021 to discuss strategic infrastructure projects in West Asia or the Middle East.

Nobody said it out loud but it was about China from day one, a former senior Israeli official was quoted as saying by Axios.

The former Israeli official revealed that the idea of linking the Middle East region and employing Indias expertise for such big infrastructure projects during these I2U2 meetings was originally conceived by Israel.

The US expanded on this idea to include Saudi Arabia in the project.

The initiative would include connecting Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also connect to India through seaports in the Gulf, sources told Axios.

Regional integration in the Middle East

Last week, Sullivan hinted at this new proposal during his speech at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, saying the notion is to connect South Asia to the Middle East to America in ways that advance our economic technology and diplomacy.

A more integrated, interconnected Middle East empowers our allies and partners, advances regional peace and prosperity, and reduces the resource demands on the US in this region over the long term without sacrificing our fundamental interests or our involvement in the region, he was quoted as saying by Axios.

What is in it for India?

Sources in New Delhi told the English daily Indian Express why the Central government is keen to be a part of this ambitious initiative.

China brokering a peace deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran in March this year had caught the world by surprise. It not only posed a challenge for the US  which has been a central player in the Middle East for decades  but also raised concerns for India, which sees Beijings growing clout in West Asia as mission creep, as per Indian Express.

India, which relies on crude imports from oil-rich West Asian countries, will have better connectivity in the region for transport if the new proposal comes to fruition. The project will also be beneficial to eight million Indian citizens living and working in the Gulf region, the English daily said.

The initiative will also help India to promote its brand as an infrastructure builder in the railway sector overseas. New Delhi, which wants private and public companies to explore the possible economic and infrastructure opportunities in West Asia, may be able to offer an alternative to Chinas Belt and Road project, reported Indian Express.

India is also looking forward to using sea routes to reach West Asian ports as it believes connectivity to its western neighbours has been hampered because of Pakistan blocking overland transit routes, said the report.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration has been intensifying efforts to keep India on its side. Senior US officials told Bloomberg earlier in May that rising concerns about Chinas growing assertiveness under Xi Jinping have helped drive the US and India even closer together.

With inputs from agencies

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The World Press Freedom Index published by the non-profit organisation Reporters Without Borders has been making news recently in India after the ranking showed New Delhi to be lagging behind even Kabul when it came to the freedom of the press.

On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also took a sceptical view of the ranking  India has been placed at the 161st position out of 180 countries, behind countries like Afghanistan (152), Pakistan (150) and Somalia (141). During the interactive session on the Foreign Policy of the Modi Government, when asked about Indias poor performance, S Jaishankar reacted, I was amazed at our number. I thought we had the most uncontrollable press, and somebody is getting something fundamentally wrong.

Afghanistan was freer than us. Can you imagine? Look, these are all I mean, I see the democracy index, freedom index, religious freedom index, and press freedom index.

He called the entire exercise as mind games, adding that these are the ways of playing mind games which are like lowering the rank of the country whom you dont like while others do not.

Also read: Western Neo-colonialism? Why India rejects opinion-based, perception indices where Afghanistan, Hong Kong fare better

But who decides this ranking? How exactly is this ranking decided? Heres a look.

What is the World Press Freedom Index?

The World Press Freedom Index is an annual ranking of countries, evaluating the level of freedom available to the media. Since 2002, it has been published each year by the Reporters Without Borders group.

For the unaware, Reporters Without Borders or Reporters Sans Frontiers (RSF) is a global media watchdog with its headquarters in Paris. According to their website, they are neither a trade union nor a representative of media companies. It was founded in 1985 and over the years has consultative status with the United Nations, UNESCO, the Council of Europe and the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF).

The RSFs most visible initiative is the World Press Freedom Index is, however, not an indicator on the quality of journalism.

How does it decide the ranking?

The RSFs ranking is based on responses of experts to a questionnaire of 83 questions. This questionnaire is put forth to various freedom of expression NGOs, many of which are funded by the RSF, a network of 150 correspondents and researchers, jurists and human rights activists.

The questionnaire is used to calculate scores on six parameters in the index  pluralism, media independence, media environment and self-censorship, legislative framework, transparency and quality of infrastructure that support production of news and information.

The questions are mostly in yes and no or multiple choice formats. One of the examples of the question asked is  In the past 12 months, have the authorities blocked accounts or had posts deleted in response to the posting or sharing of journalistic content?

Along with the questionnaire, RSF also combines the quantitative abuses and acts of violence against journalists to come up with the overall World Press Index score.

Based on this data, the RSF compiles its scoring which is placed into five categories. If the score is between 85-100 points, you are in the green category, which notes that press freedom is good. The next is the satisfactory category of 70-85 points. The third is the problematic category where countries score between 55 and 70 points. The fourth and fifth categories are the difficult and very serious categories where scores are 40-55 points and 0-40 points respectively.

What do the rankings reveal this year?

The World Press Freedom Index released this year on 5 May painted a not-so-pretty picture for India. It pushed Indias ranking from 150 to 161 this year, a drop of 11 places. Interestingly, when this ranking began back in 2002, India was initially placed at the 80th spot.

The RSF said that the situation has gone from problematic to very bad in three other countries: Tajikistan (down one at 153rd), India (down 11 at 161st) and Turkey (down 16 at 165th).

In its report, the RSF further noted, The purchase of media outlets by oligarchs with strong ties to political figures is another phenomena that dangerously hinders the free flow of information.

Also read: China biggest global jailer of journalists, exporter of propaganda content: Press group

Shockingly for India, Afghanistan had a better ranking and was placed at the 152nd spot. Meanwhile, Norway came out on top, followed by Ireland and Denmark. When it came to the worst countries, it was North Korea at the bottom, followed by China and Vietnam.

Why is the ranking criticised?

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is not the only one to criticise the ranking. Earlier in March, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur had said that the government did not subscribe to the rankings.

The World Press Freedom Index is published by a foreign non-government organisation, called Reporters Without Borders, and the government does not subscribe to its views and country rankings and does not agree to the conclusions drawn by this organisation, he had then written in a response in Rajya Sabha.

He said this was owing to various factors, including a very low sample size, little or no weightage to fundamentals of democracy, adoption of a methodology which is questionable and non-transparent.

A previously-published NITI Aayog report also highlighted issues with the questionnaire used to gather data. It states that question-wise or category-wise scores used are not made public, nor is the list of respondents provided. It also adds that the questions are biased in nature.

Another criticism of the index is that it usually ranks developing countries, which have government media ownership lower than other countries. However, countries like Denmark and Norway, which usually rank high, provide direct subsidies to the press. Hence, this raises a huge question on the credibility of the ranking.

Theres also the question of funding to RSF. The Street reports that through their funding, billionaires, including George Soros via his Open Society and Pierre Omidyar, have indirectly shaped RSF activities. In return for French and US funds, the RSF has been largely silent about media abuses in France and the West.

And its not just India that has raised questions on the credibility of the ranking. Fifteen years ago, Singapores then-PM Goh Chok Tong had denounced the index as a subjective measure computed through the prism of Western liberals. Today, Singapore continues to rank low on the index  it is ranked at 129.

With inputs from agencies

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Have you dated someone who has taken the relationship from 0-100 in a second? Have you been unpleasantly or maybe pleasantly surprised at the pace of wooing by your partner? Has your partner bombed you with extreme displays of attention and affection?

If your answer to any of the questions above is yes, then maybe you have been a victim of love bombing.

And the act has become so pervasive in the United Kingdom that the Crown Prosecution Service has now recognised it as a form of domestic abuse.

But what exactly is love bombing? How can it affect an individual?

Love bombing, explained

A recent phenomenon in the dating world, not many people are aware of this practice neither are they able to spot it. According to experts it is a form of emotional abuse and a situation where a partner overwhelms you with love and affection, but doesnt respect boundaries, or manipulates you or tries to control your life through apparently loving actions.

Lori Nixon Bethea, PhD, owner of Intentional Hearts Counseling Services, explains to Cosmopolitan that for a person indulging in love bombing, the purpose is to enhance their ego by gaining power over those being pursued.

According to Samanth Burns, a couples therapist and author of Breaking Up and Bouncing Back, Love bombing is when the partner comes on very strong with praise, affection, and grand gestures, which make you feel like the biggest catch in the world, creating an intense connection [quickly].

She adds that once the so-called bomber acquires the persons trust, they then indulge in manipulative behaviours and emotional abuse, such as gaslighting, meant to break you down after building you up.

Couples therapy experts note that love bombing might look like someone is constantly complimenting or dramatically professing love and devotion or bombarding a person with grand gestures or expensive gifts. It is because of this that it makes it hard to spot, as it feels similar to what people want in relationships  to feel loved and adored.

Also read: Whats textationship, the new dating trend among Gen Z?

Another problem with identifying love bombing is that it can happen anytime and by any person in a relationship. It need not be a new relationship or a certain type of individual who practices this technique.

However, psychotherapist Ami Kaplan notes that its most often a symptom of narcissistic personality disorder. Speaking to Cosmopolitan, she said, Its about really getting the other person. Then, when they feel like they really got the person and they feel secure in the relationship, the narcissist typically switches and becomes very difficult, abusive, or manipulative. She adds that the same person who was just super idealising of their partner will switch to devaluing them.

Signs of being love-bombed

Experts note that love bombing isnt uniformed or and the act isnt going to look the same in every situation, but there are some signs people can keep eye out for.

The most important and biggest red flag that you may be a victim of love bombing is excessive attention and praise. While this sounds like relationship heaven, it is also one of the biggest indicators of being love-bombed.

People who have been at the receiving end of love bombing says its like a drug  you put up with all the bad because you will be receiving praise and flattery. However, this is not sustainable. Once a love bomber has established trust and dependency they go through a withdrawing stage. One expert noted that love bombers will discard you when they have had their fill and then theyre back when they feel that their control isnt working.

Another tell-tale sign of love bombing is lavishing gifts on a person. As love-bombers want to be acknowledged for their generosity and attention, theyll often bombard their partner with extravagant gifts. This can feel like an ideal situation at first but eventually will transition to control, criticism, confusing behaviour, or even withdrawal if they feel theyre not receiving enough appreciation for their gestures.

Intense jealousy and ensuring that you dont have time for another relationship  be it with a friend or with a colleague or even a family member is another sign of being love bombed. Love bombers often try to isolate their victims to create dependency. Your partner might tell you what to wear, they might offer to drive you everywhere, and they might try to cut you off from your loved ones.

CPS on love bombing

Noting that such behaviour is harmful, the CPS has updated its guidance on the many varied ways that abusive partners will emotionally and physically seek to manipulate and control people.

The guidance from the CPS seeks to inform prosecutors about different abusive tactics that might be used, particularly those that could be misrepresented to mislead criminal proceedings or weaken a case.

Many activists and domestic abuse charities have applauded the move, saying it was time that this practice was being recognised for its negative effects. Ruth Davison, Chief Executive of Refuge, told Hearst UK, Its vital that the criminal justice system recognises the extent perpetrators will go in an attempt to control and manipulate a partner, and this change is a step in the right direction. I hope this updated guidance means more survivors are able to seek justice for the crime perpetrated against them. It is now the job of our police forces and courts to show perpetrators this is not behaviour that will be tolerated.

Also read: Domestic abuse is same as terrorism, says British prime minister Rishi Sunak

Gemma Lindfield, a barrister practising family law in UK, was quoted as telling Metro, All too frequently the police can misunderstand the subtleties of domestic abuse and the genesis of it in a relationship.

One must understand that love bombing no matter how ideal or lovely it sounds, it is dangerous and is ultimately a form of manipulation. This is because it makes you feel a certain way that benefits the love bomber.

Additionally, love-bombing can be used as part of reconciliation, after a victim has pulled back from an abuser after a particular incident of abuse. It is most often used after an instance of physical domestic abuse. For instance, a man hits a woman and then apologises profusely and showers her with gifts, demanding she take him back. This is a classic case of love bombing.

Steps to take if you are love bombed

The first thing is to identify this behaviour. Sometimes this may be difficult for the person involved and hence, in such a situation turning to someone outside the relationship to fully acknowledge the fact that youre dealing with a manipulative person is helpful.

Once you have identified that you are dealing with a love bomber, you could have a conversation and set boundaries with them. However, in very extreme cases when this doesnt work, the best option is to seek help from agencies dealing with domestic abuse.

The main thing to remember is that you arent alone in such situation and there is help.

With inputs from agencies

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Sydney: A royal row has erupted in Australia over a decision to scrap the lighting-up of the Sydney Opera House in honour of King Charles IIIs coronation.

The sails of the architectural masterpiece on Sydney Harbour are illuminated in colours for important occasions ranging from WorldPride to the Ukraine invasion anniversary and the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

But for Saturdays coronation, the soaring curves of the emblematic 50-year-old building were left dark.

New South Wales state premier Chris Minns said he had cancelled his predecessors plans to light up the building for Charles, who is Australias head of state.

Also Read: King Charles Coronation: The British royal familys line of succession explained

I would like to keep it for Australia and Australians and moments of sacrifice and heroism for the country, or when theres an important international event in Sydney, Minns told a radio interviewer on Monday.

The premier said the buildings sails had been illuminated 70 times last year  compared with 23 times a decade earlier  at an estimated cost of AUS $80,000-100,000 ($54,000-67,000 or Rs 44-54 lakh) for each occasion.

People had many places to mark the coronation including on television, he told Sydneys 2GB radio.

The event was not taking place in Sydney, it was taking place in London, Minns said.

Of course, I respect the new king but I am mindful of where and when we spend taxpayer money.

Minns became premier on 25 March after his Labour Party won the state elections.

Republicanism by stealth

Labour Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who attended the coronation, is an avowed republican whose government includes an assistant minister for the republic.

We are facing a campaign of republicanism by stealth in Australia by the current government despite the parading of the prime minister in London declaring his allegiance to the king, said Australian Monarchist League chair Philip Benwell.

Also Read: The Great British Loot: The jewels stolen by the Royals

The New South Wales premier said he would not apologise to those disappointed by the decision.

I have got no interest in antagonising people that believe in the monarchy, people who are royalists  of course not  but obviously I have got to be careful about where I spend their money, he said.

Polls show many Australians want to get rid of the monarchy in favour of a republic.

But the republican question is taking second place to a referendum later this year on giving Indigenous people the constitutional right to be consulted about laws that affect them.

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Should TikTok be banned? Should younger children be prevented from engaging with social media? Can the government make sure private information is secure? What about brand-new artificial intelligence interfaces? Or should users be regulating themselves, leaving the government out of it?

Tech regulation has been gathering momentum on Capitol Hill amid concerns about Chinas ownership of TikTok and as parents are growing increasingly worried about the effects of social media on a post-pandemic mental health crisis.

Noting that many young people are struggling, President Joe Biden said in his February State of the Union speech that its time to pass bipartisan legislation to impose stricter limits on the collection of personal data and ban targeted advertising to children.

We must finally hold social media companies accountable for the experiment they are running on our children for profit, Biden said.

Lawmakers have introduced a slew of bipartisan bills to regulate tech, and its one of the few major policy issues where Republicans and Democrats generally align, boosting hopes for compromise in a split Congress.

Still, any effort to take on the mammoth industry would face major obstacles. Technology companies have aggressively fought any federal interference, and they have operated for decades now without strict federal oversight, making any new rules or guidelines that much more complicated.

A look at some of the areas of potential regulation:

Childrens safety

Several House and Senate bills would try to make social media, and the internet in general, safer for children who will inevitably be online. Lawmakers cite numerous examples of teenagers who have taken their own lives after cyber bullying or died engaging in dangerous behaviour encouraged on social media.

In the Senate, at least two competing bills are focused on childrens online safety. Legislation by Senators Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, and Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee, approved by the Senate Commerce Committee last year would require social media companies to be more transparent about their operations and enable child safety settings by default. Minors would have the option to disable addictive product features and algorithms that push certain content.

The idea, the senators say, is that platforms should be safe by design. The legislation, which Blumenthal and Blackburn reintroduced last week, would also obligate social media companies to prevent certain dangers to minors  including promotion of suicide, disordered eating, substance abuse, sexual exploitation and other illegal behaviours.

A second bill introduced last month by four senators  Democratic Senators Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Republican Senators Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Katie Britt of Alabama  would take a more aggressive approach, prohibiting children under the age of 13 from using social media platforms and requiring parental consent for teenagers. It would also prohibit the companies from recommending content through algorithms for users under the age of 18.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-New York, has not weighed in on specific legislation but told reporters on Tuesday, I believe we need some kind of child protections on the internet.

Critics of the bills, including some civil rights groups and advocacy groups aligned with tech companies, say the proposals could threaten teens online privacy and prevent them from accessing content that could help them, such as resources for those considering suicide or grappling with their sexual and gender identity.

Lawmakers should focus on educating and empowering families to control their online experience, said Carl Szabo of NetChoice, a group aligned with Meta, TikTok, Google and Amazon, among other companies.

Data privacy

Bidens State of the Union remarks appeared to be a nod toward legislation by Senators Ed Markey, D-Massachusetts, and Bill Cassidy, R-Louisiana, that would expand child privacy protections online, prohibiting companies from collecting personal data from younger teenagers and banning targeted advertising to children and teens. The bill, also reintroduced last week, would create a so-called eraser button allowing parents and kids to eliminate personal data, when possible.

A broader House effort would attempt to give adults as well as children more control over their data with what lawmakers call a national privacy standard. Legislation that passed the House Energy and Commerce Committee with wide bipartisan support last year would try to minimise data collected and make it illegal to target ads to children, usurping state laws that have tried to put privacy restrictions in place. But the bill, which would have also given consumers more rights to file lawsuits over privacy violations, never reached the House floor.

Prospects for the House legislation are unclear now that Republicans have the majority. House Energy and Commerce Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Washington.., has made the issue a priority, holding several hearings on data privacy. But the committee has not yet moved forward with a new bill.

TikTok ban/China

Lawmakers introduced a raft of bills to either ban TikTok or make it easier to ban it after a combative March House hearing in which lawmakers from both parties grilled TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew over his companys ties to Chinas communist government, data security and harmful content on the app.

Chew attempted to assure lawmakers that the hugely popular video-sharing app prioritises user safety and should not be banned due to its Chinese connections. But the testimony gave new momentum to the efforts.

Soon after the hearing, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican, tried to force a Senate vote on legislation that would ban TikTok from operating in the United States. But he was blocked by a fellow Republican, Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, who said that a ban would violate the Constitution and anger the millions of voters who use the app.

Another bill sponsored by Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida would, like Hawleys bill, ban US economic transactions with TikTok, but it would also create a new framework for the executive branch to block any foreign apps deemed hostile. His bill is cosponsored by Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Illinois, and Mike Gallagher, R-Wisconsin.

There is broad Senate support for bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner, D- Virginia, and South Dakota Senator John Thune, the No 2 Senate Republican, that does not specifically call out TikTok but would give the Commerce Department power to review and potentially restrict foreign threats to technology platforms.

The White House has signalled it would back that bill, but it is unclear if it will be brought up in the Senate or if it could garner support among House Republicans.

TikTok has launched an extensive lobbying campaign for its survival, including by harnessing influencers and young voters to argue that the app isnt harmful.

Artificial intelligence

A newer question for Congress is whether lawmakers should move to regulate artificial intelligence as rapidly developing and potentially revolutionary products like AI chatbot ChatGPT begin to enter the marketplace and can in many ways mimic human behaviour.

Senate leader Schumer has made the emerging technology a priority, arguing that the United States needs to stay ahead of China and other countries that are eyeing regulations on AI products. He has been working with AI experts and has released a general framework of what regulation could look like, including increased disclosure of the people and data involved in developing the technology, more transparency and explanation for how the bots arrive at responses.

Schumer said any eventual regulation should prevent potentially catastrophic damage to our country while simultaneously making sure the US advances and leads in this transformative technology.

The White House has been focused on the issue as well, with a recent announcement of a $140 million (Rs 1,144 crore) investment to establish seven new AI research institutes. Vice President Kamala Harris met Thursday with the heads of Google, Microsoft and other companies developing AI products.

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London: The World Health Organisation downgraded its assessment of the coronavirus pandemic on Friday, saying it no longer qualifies as a global emergency.

The action reverses a declaration that was first made on 30 January, 2020, when the disease had not even been named COVID-19 and when there were no major outbreaks beyond China.

A look at what WHOs decision means:

Why end the global health emergency?

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the pandemic has been on a downward trend for more than a year, with population immunity increasing from vaccination and infection. That, he said, has allowed most countries to return to life as we knew it before COVID-19, meaning that the worst part of the pandemic is over.

Tedros said that for the past year, WHO and its emergency committee experts have been analysing COVID-19 data to decide when the time would be right to lower its level of alarm. On Thursday, the experts recommended to Tedros that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency and the WHO chief said he accepted that advice.

What are the practical effects?

For the average person, nothing. The classification of a health threat as a global emergency is meant to warn political authorities that there is an extraordinary event that could constitute a health threat to other countries and requires a coordinated response to contain it.

WHOs emergency declarations are typically used as an international SOS for countries who need help. They can also spur countries to introduce special measures to combat disease or release extra funds.

Many countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the US, have long dropped many of their pandemic-era restrictions. The US is ending its public health emergency next Thursday, which Dr Rochelle Walensky cited Friday in announcing her decision to leave as head of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention next month.

Is COVID-19 still a pandemic?

Yes. Although WHO chief Tedros said the coronavirus emergency was over, he warned that the virus is here to stay and that thousands of people continue to die every week. The risk remains of new variants emerging that cause new surges in cases and deaths, Tedros said. What this news means is that its time for countries to transition from emergency mode to managing COVID-19 alongside other infectious diseases.

In April, there were nearly three million cases and more than 17,000 deaths reported, including spikes in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the United Nations agency noted.

So, when will the COVID-19 pandemic end?

Its unclear. WHO emergencies chief Dr Michael Ryan said the coronavirus is still a public health threat and that its continued evolution could yet cause future problems. It took decadesfor the pandemic virus of 1918 to disappear, he said, referring to the Spanish flu that is thought to have killed at least 40 million people.

Pandemics only truly end when the next pandemic begins, he said. Ryan said that while COVID-19 will continue to spread among people for a very long time, it is doing so at a much lower level of threat that does not require the extraordinary measures taken to try to curb the virus spread.

What else has been declared an emergency?

WHO has previously declared global emergencies for outbreaks of swine flu, Zika, Ebola, polio and mpox, formerly called monkeypox. Polio was declared nearly nine years ago. Its emergency status has persisted even as officials work to wipe out the disease from a shrinking number of countries.

Last July, WHO chief Tedros declared the explosive spread of mpox to dozens of countries to be a global emergency, overruling the emergency committee he had convened to assess the situation. The disease peaked in Europe and North America shortly after, but technically remains a global emergency.

Do we still need to take COVID-19 precautions?

Yes. Health officials say the virus isnt going anywhere and advise people to get vaccinated, including getting booster doses if they qualify. Although many of the measures seen at the height of the pandemic  including masks and social distancing  arent required except in certain settings, like hospitals or nursing homes, officials say people with other health conditions or compromised immune systems may still want to continue with some of those precautions.

Also Read: Delhi records seven Covid deaths, highest so far in 2023, adds 1,040 fresh cases

Unlike in the early years of COVID-19, high immunisation levels, both from vaccination and previous infection, have helped dramatically reduce disease spread.

Simon Clarke, an associate professor of microbiology at Britains University of Reading, warned against people dropping all COVID-19 protections.

The message to the public should still be to take care and think of others. If youre ill with a respiratory infection, like a bad cough, dont put others at risk, especially not those who are vulnerable, he said. If you pass on a COVID infection, no one will thank you. If youre fit and young, COVID can still be nasty and if youre old and frail, it can kill you.

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The first-of-its-kind Indian Air Force (IAF) Heritage Centre was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Chandigarh on Monday.

Present on the occasion were Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Banwarilal Purohit, Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher among others.

Dedicated to the nation Indias first IAF Heritage Centre in Chandigarh today. This Centre is a testament to the courage and dedication of all those who have served in the IAF and a reminder of their invaluable contributions in protecting the nation. pic.twitter.com/7qfUzoCopg  Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 8, 2023

The Centre has been set up under a memorandum of understanding between the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the IAF which was signed last year.

The IAF chief had visited the Indian Air Force Heritage Centre last month to review its progress.

Spread over 17,000 square feet, this is the first heritage centre of the IAF and depicts its role in various wars, including in 1965, 1971 and the Kargil war, and the Balakot air strike through murals and memorabilia.

Its exhibits will be a source of inspiration for future generations and will showcase the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force, officials said.

(With inputs from PTI)

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India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday informed that a low pressure area formed over south-east Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclone and likely to move towards the Bangladesh-Myanmar coast later this week.

Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, said the low pressure area is expected to concentrate into a depression by Tuesday evening and then intensify into a cyclonic storm the next day.

He asked fishermen, ships, trawlers and small boats not to venture into the south-east Bay of Bengal and urged those in the region to return to the coast.

The cyclone will be named Mocha (Mokha), a name suggested by Yemen after the Red Sea port city, which is known to have introduced coffee to the world over 500 years ago.

The cyclonic storm will move initially north-northwest to central Bay of Bengal till May 11 and then re-curve and move north-northeast towards Bangladesh-Myanmar coast, Mohapatra said.

He said squally wind speed reaching 50-60 kmph gusting to 70 kmph is likely over southeast Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and adjoining Andaman Sea on Tuesday.

Mohapatra said under the influence of the weather system, Andaman and Nicobar islands are expected to experience very heavy rainfall on Tuesday.

The weather office has suggested regulation of tourism and offshore activities and shipping near Andaman and Nicobar Islands and over the sea areas of southeast and central Bay of Bengal till Friday.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Women delegates who took part in the G20 meeting in Goa on Monday laid special emphasis on the financial and digital inclusion of women across the globe to bridge the gender inequality gap.

The delegates were attending a meeting held ahead of the G20s third Development Working Group meeting in the coastal state.

The former president of the United Nations General Assembly, Maria Fernanda Espinosa, participated in the discussions. She said, even today, women constantly strive to prove their places in the world and conform to the imposter syndrome.

She said women in leadership positions need to set examples to break these stereotypes. There is a need to design institutions and systems that allow and welcome feminine leadership.

Espinosa added, Sisterhood and brotherhood alliances with the feminist men are critical to that development.

The meeting also saw the participation of the founder and CEO of GirlHype -Women Who Code, Baratang Miya, who said since women form a large part of digital content users, they need to pioneer the algorithms that generate this content and completely understand the foundations upon which these are built.

She said that lack of tech literacy among women act as a major barrier for women to participate in job markets. It can massively add to their self-esteem, help them understand, build and shape their own tech spaces, she said.

Meanwhile, Susan Ferguson, Country Representative, of UN Women said that no one factor in silos can unlock the potential of womens empowerment.

Violence against women at work, a safe working environment with gender-responsive infrastructure and responsibility sharing are crucial considerations, she said.

Ferguson said womens skilling programmes must be complemented with institutional efforts towards supporting job matching, access to suitable transportation to work, a safe working environment and engaging family support to womens economic participation.

Kajal Ilmi, founder and CEO of Aviom India Housing Finance, said women culturally seem to have a very complex relationship with the understanding of money management and finance.

To enable women-led development, creating that understanding among women across socio-economic strata must be at the fulcrum of change, she said.

Ilmi said promoting and supporting womens financial literacy is a must for financial institutions to create a sustainable social impact channelled through micro-finance and womens entrepreneurship.

With inputs from PTI

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Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Suratgarh in Rajasthan on Monday, defence sources said adding that the pilot is safe. The aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh.

As per the latest information, three civilians died and a man was injured as the plane crashed on their house in Bahlolnagar district in Hanumangharh. A rescue operation is underway, SP Sudhir Chaudhary said.

A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident, IAF tweeted.



Earlier in January, one pilot lost his life after two Indian Air Force fighter jets  a Sukhoi Su-30 and a Mirage 2000  crashed during a training exercise in Rajasthans Bharatpur. While one aircraft crashed in Morena in Madhya Pradesh, the other crashed and landed in Rajasthans Bharatpur.

#WATCH | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. The aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh. The pilot is safe. More details awaited: IAF Sources pic.twitter.com/0WOwoU5ASi  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

Earlier last week an Indian Army chopper crashed in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district. Another accident happened in Kochi in April when a Coast Guard helicopter during trials made a crash landing. This March in Mumbai a Navy chopper had ditched after performing VVIP duties.

VIDEO | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashes near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/alD8MYaOFl  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 8, 2023
After a series of bitter words and deeds that threw ties between the US and China back into a deep freeze, Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Monday stressed in particular that the United States must correct its handling of the Taiwan issue and stop the hollowing out of the one China principle.

It is imperative to stabilise Sino-U.S. relations, he said in a meeting in Beijing with U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Burns.

The relationship between the worlds two biggest economies sank to a low last year when then-speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi paid an official visit to democratically governed Taiwan, angering China, which claims the island as its territory.

In response, Beijing severed formal communications channels with the United States including one between their militaries.

A series of erroneous words and deeds by the United States since then have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations, Qin told Burns, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

The agenda of dialogue and cooperation agreed by the two sides have been disrupted, and the relationship between the two countries has once again encountered cold ice.

Tensions flared in February when a Chinese high-altitude balloon appeared in U.S. airspace and in response, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelled a visit to Beijing.

Last week, Blinken appeared to offer hope of a visit, telling the Washington Post that it was important to re-establish regular lines of communication at all levels.

Also last week, U.S. climate envoy John Kerry said China had invited him to visit in the near term for talks on averting a global climate crisis, offering hope of resetting one of the worlds most important state-to-state relationships.

Sino-U.S. relations are of great significance not only to China and the United States but also to the world, Qin said.

The top priority is to stabilise Sino-U.S. relations, avoid a downward spiral and prevent any accidents between China and the United States.

With inputs from Reuters.

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New Lithium reserves have been discovered in Rajasthans Degana, according to media reports citing state government officials.

Mining and Geological Survey of India (GSI) authorities claimed that the reserves are higher than that of the ones earlier discover in Jammu and Kashmir. With the quantity of lithium, India can meet around 80% of its total demand.

In February, approximately 5.9 million tonnes of lithium reserves were discovered in Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi district, according to the Ministry of Mines.

Geological Survey of India for the first-time established Lithium inferred resources (G3) of 5.9 million tonnes in the Salal-Haimana area of the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Ministry of Mines had said.

Indias first large lithium discovery, with the sole other reserves being a minor 1600-tonne deposit identified in Karnataka two years ago, means India now has the worlds fifth-largest lithium reserves, just ahead of the United States, says a report by Quartz.

Until now, the country had relied on Australia, Chile, and Argentina for any lithium imports required for its manufacturing sector. But because refining lithium ore into a material that can be used to produce batteries is a difficult process, India will continue to rely on imports for at least a few years, the Quartz report says.

Lithium is a non-ferrous metal. Discovered in 1817 by Johan August Arfvedson, it is one of the most in-demand minerals in the world. It is toxic in nature and reacts vigorously with water. Used in smartphones, mobile chargers, laptops, pacemakers, toys and clocks, lithium is also an important component in Electronic Vehicle batteries.

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The ASEAN-India Maritime Exercises of 2023 witnessed the successful participation of INS Delhi and INS Satpura.

The Indian Navy tweeted, INS Delhi & INS Satpura successfully participated in various activities during the harbour phase of the ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise 2023. The ASEAN & Indian Navy ships subsequently commenced the Sea Phase in the South China Sea which terminates today 8th May.

Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, who is on a three-day official visit to Singapore, met with the crew members of INS Delhi and Satpura.

He met with the crew of INS Delhi and INS Satpura at Changi Naval Base. He was received by Rear Adm Gurcharan Singh, Flag Officer Commanding Easter Fleet.

Kumar interacted with the crew of the two ships and wished them successful participation in the Sea Phase of the inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME).

The Admiral urged all personnel to use the opportunity provided by AIME to refine procedures, learn best practices and enhance interoperability with the ASEAN navies.

He also highlighted the importance of such missions in realising Indias vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). During the visit the CNS co-officiated the inaugural ceremony of the maiden ASEAN  India Maritime Exercise (AIME) 2023, on Tuesday.

The harbour phase of the exercise was held at Changi Naval Base from May 2 to 4, 2023 and the Sea Phase from May 7-8, 2023 in the South China Sea.

The purpose of AIME is to promote maritime cooperation and enhance trust, friendship and confidence amongst ASEAN and Indian Navies, read an Indian Navy press release.

The Sea Phase of AIME will provide an opportunity for participants to develop closer links in the coordination and execution of operations in the maritime domain.

Indias first indigenously-built destroyer, INS Delhi and INS Satpura, an indigenously-built guided missile stealth frigate along with a P8I Maritime Patrol aircraft participated in the Inaugural ASEAN India Maritime Exercise.

With inputs from ANI

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As the row over Karnatakas sovereignty remark escalated with the BJP on Monday moving the Election Commission seeking an FIR against Sonia Gandhi and her partys derecognition, the poll panel asked the Congress to clarify and rectify the partys social media post attributed to Gandhi.

The EC sent a letter to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge after the BJP complaint regarding a tweet that appeared on the official Twitter handle of the Indian National Congress on May 6.

In its complaint, the BJP has alleged, Karnataka is a very important member state in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous & pernicious consequences.

The BJP also alleged in its complaint to the EC that the tweet is violative of the mandatory oath undertaken by the political parties under section 29A (5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 at the time of registration.

In view of the above, you are requested to clarify and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson, CPP, the EC letter read.

A former Congress chief, Sonia Gandhi is currently the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson.

After Gandhi addressed a campaign rally in Hubballi in Karnataka on Saturday, the Congress tweeted from its official handle: CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnatakas reputation, sovereignty or integrity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue in his public meetings on Sunday to launch a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing the party of openly advocating for separating Karnataka from India.

Modi alleged that the disease of the tukde-tukde gang (anti-national elements) has reached the Congress top level.

Several BJP leaders attacked the Congress over the sovereignty remark. Union minister Anurag Thakur said, By referring to Karnatakas sovereignty, Sonia Gandhi Ji, you have revealed the Congress deep conspiracy to disintegrate India. However, Congress general secretary in-charge of Karnataka Randeep Surjewala hit back and claimed that the desperation of the prime minister and BJP is glaring as they seek to clutch at straws for want of a narrative in Karnataka.

On the last day of the campaign for the May 10 assembly elections in Karnataka, Surjewala said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should speak out on corruption charges against his partys government and added that excuses cannot be the refuge of the BJP in this election.

We reject the fakery and falsehood being perpetuated by PM as he refuses to answer a single question on why BJP is denigrating the swabhimaan of Karnataka, the Congress leader said when asked about the BJPs charge on sovereignty remark.

If raising the issues of Kannada pride being compromised is a crime, we consider it our dharma to do so again and again, the Congress leader told PTI.

Amid the row, the Election Commission on Monday also asked the Karnataka BJP to provide verifiable and traceable facts by Tuesday evening regarding its newspaper advertisement aimed at the opposition party.

The Congress had approached the poll panel against the advertisement issued by the BJPs Karnataka unit.

The EC said if no proof is provided, the BJP should come up with reasons as to why action should not be initiated for violating the MCC and relevant legal provisions under the Representation of the People Act and the Indian Penal Code.

Before the high-octane campaigning ended this evening, a BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll panel in Delhi over the sovereignty remark attributed to Sonia Gandhi and the party also demanded an FIR against her.

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh, who was part of the delegation besides BJP MP Anil Baluni and leader Om Pathak, cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

Citing the Congress tweets, the BJP in its memorandum to the poll watchdog alleged that such a comment is a well-considered evil design to provoke the staunch nationalists, peace-loving, progressive and globally recognised people of Karnataka.

The intent apparently is to disturb the equanimity, harmony and peace to garner votes and support some select communities or groups, whose sole purpose and intent is to disrupt the very being of the Indian state, it claimed.

The BJP also filed a complaint with the Election Commission in Bengaluru and requested it to issue a direction for the registration of an FIR against Gandhi over the use of the word sovereignty.

Noting that a sovereign by definition is an independent nation, the complaint said, When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. India is a sovereign country and the state of Karnataka is a proud part of it. Till today no one raised any question about the integrity of Kannadigas with the sovereignty of the nation. The complaint added, The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India. This statement is divisive in nature.

It is aimed at dividing the citizens and creating a rift between people of different states. Karnataka is not different from India. This is a shocking statement leading to igniting divisive sentiments and creating disharmony in the society. Describing the Congress tweet quoting Gandhi as shocking and unacceptable, Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Gandhi had violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making such a statement.

Karandlaje, the convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, also requested the EC to issue directions to register an FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for Indias independence. It is an insult to crores of patriotic Kannadigas, who swear by India and cherish their Indianness, said the Union Minister of State for Agriculture.

The statement would lead to division on the basis of language and statehood, the complaint alleged.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.

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A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Monday between Union Housing and Urban Affairs and Railways ministries for building four stations along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (Project-SMART) corridor.

The four stations will be Sabarmati, Surat, Virar and Thane, said the statement issued by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

According to the ministry, Project-SMART envisages developing surrounding areas of the stations to enhance accessibility and convenience of commuters and other stakeholders, and to promote economic activities in their vicinities.

The project would facilitate and enhance the institutional capacity of state governments, municipal corporations and urban development authorities to plan, develop and manage surrounding areas of the stations, the ministry said.

The ministry, governments of Gujarat and Maharashtra, and JICA are organising a series of seminars and field visits for Project-SMART in Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

The first seminar saw deliberations by officers from MoHUA, Railways ministry, National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited, Japanese embassy and JICAs headquarters and India office, and JICAs expert team, the statement said.

With PTI inputs.

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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda on Sunday attended a special screening of the film The Kerala Story and said that there is a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition.

The BJP chief said that the film exposes poisonous terrorism. After watching this film, people will be able to understand the conspiracy being hatched to make our society hollow, he added.

Earlier, while addressing a rally in poll-bound Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that The Kerala Story movie is based on a terror conspiracy.

The Prime Minister said that the film The Kerala Story shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists design. He added that the film is based on a terror conspiracy.

The Kerala Story film is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists design, the PM said. He also hit out at the Congress party and said that Congress had shielded terrorism for the vote bank.

Congress is opposing the film on terrorism and standing with terror tendencies. Congress has shielded terrorism for the vote bank, PM Modi said.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan earlier said in a statement that the movie was deliberately made with the aim of creating communal polarisation and spreading hate propaganda against Kerala.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the newly released movie has been made tax-free in the state stating that the The Kerala Story exposes the conspiracy of love Jihad, religious conversion and terrorism.

Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film has triggered a massive political row with various leaders reacting to the upcoming movie.

The Kerala Story stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in the lead roles. The trailer of Sens film The Kerala Story came under fire as it claimed that 32,000 girls from the state went missing and later joined the terrorist group, ISIS.

Faced with backlash the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description.

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New Delhi: While Prime Minister Narendra Modis campaign blitzkrieg dominated the electioneering in Karnataka, a lesser-known aspect of his outreach has been his meetings with nearly 3,000 people  old and new party workers and prominent citizens  during his seven days of public meetings and roadshows in the state.

Sources said he met around 430 people on the last day of his campaign on Sunday while, a day earlier, he interacted with nearly 450 people. The prime minister has made it a point to meet people personally before and after rallies and flight trips, they added, noting that he had spoken with more than 300 people on May 5.

Overall, Modi addressed 18 rallies in the southern state and spoke to party members through a virtual interaction on April 27. He also led six roadshows  three in Bengaluru and one each in Mysuru, Kalaburagi and Tumakuru.

Sources said the selection of people who met him during the campaign was done meticulously to ensure a good mix of party workers, professionals and prominent citizens of the city. He also met Padma awardees during one of his such interactions.

These interactions are quite personal. His conversations with party members are also very significant. A lot of people tell him about their past interactions with him. Some people tell him that his or her father worked with him. If there is an old member he recognises, then he enquired about his or her families, a source said.

When seasoned workers get to relive their old memories with Modi, this also helps strengthen their bond further with the party, sources said.

Photos of people meeting the prime minister personally often go viral in that city, they added.

Modi has spearheaded the BJPs campaign as it pulls out all the stops to retain power in the state which has not elected the incumbent party to power since 1985.

The BJP has expressed confidence of breaking the precedence while the opposition Congress has also run an intense campaign to come back to power.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the situation in Jammu and Kashmir is changing for the better. In what seemed to be a veiled attack on Pakistan, Jaishankar warned that attempts will be made to disrupt the efforts put in by the government to bring peace in the region as there are interested parties, one lives right across.

Jaishankar made the comments during an interactive session on the Modi governments Foreign Policy where he also noted that there will be challenges when it comes to Jammu and Kashmir. However, he said that their effort should be to persevere, infuse that sense of confidence, to give that sense of hope, and to ensure there is security.

Clearly, things are changing for the better when it comes to Jammu and Kashmir. But, part of what needs to keep developing is actually the economy, the employment opportunities, the whole you know the ecosystem which comes which are much you know vibrant, economy, civil society, he said.

He added, Attempts will be made to disturb it because there are interested parties, one lives right across, so we you know, we should not expect that there will not be challenges. There will be and its not necessarily limited to the western neighbours, there will be others as well.

He also assured that regardless of any challenges that may come their way, the government will do everything to instill a sense of confidence among the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Spoke in Mysuru on foreign policy of Modi Government. Thank the Thinkers Forum for organizing and residents of the Palace City for attending in such large numbers. Their presence today is a statement that the world matters more to todays India; that the Modi Government has pic.twitter.com/KvOlsPnbCj  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 7, 2023

So, there will be challenges but our effort should be to persevere, to infuse that sense of confidence, to give that sense of hope, to ensure there is security and that is what really the government is doing. I mean, we have to also really recognize that men and women of this country make I mean they may be in the military, they may be in the security, they may be in the governance out there, they make sacrifices for all of this to happen. I think this is something we will do, we will continue doing, he said.

Commenting on Indias overall response to global geopolitics, Jaishankar said, I think there are moments when it is, as I said, with nice people, you are nice. With difficult people, sometimes its necessary to push back. But I would say this because this has been my experience in the last year.

When it comes to foreign policy under the Modi government, Jaishankar said that people have to trust the government and understand its commitment to the Indian diaspora abroad.

With inputs from agencies

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Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Case: In a major action against the personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police Force (TNSP), who reportedly were mute spectators to the killing of gangster Sunil Balyan alias Tillu Tajpuriya in Tihar Jail, seven personnel have been suspended and will be sent back to Tamil Nadu for allegedly standing as mute spectators at the time of the incident.

The development comes days after Director General of Delhi Prisons Sanjay Beniwal wrote to the Tamil Nadu Police asking them to take action against its personnel.

A meeting was also conducted with officials of the TNSP regarding the alleged negligence on the part of their personnel during which they had assured to take departmental action against their personnel, a jail official had said.

The Tamil Nadu Police has now suspended seven of its personnel and called them back, a jail official said.

The TNSP personnel were deployed at cell number eight where the incident took place, the officials said. The TNSP provides security on the Tihar jail premises.

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on Tuesday morning. But he was still alive and was being carried away by the prison security personnel when the accused attacked him for a second time, according to the footage.

In the footage, it appeared that the security personnel remained mute spectators while the assailants kept attacking the gangster.

With PTI inputs.

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A Dalit man in Rajasthans Jodhpur was allegedly beaten up for posting a positive review of The Kerala Story on his WhatsApp status. The miscreants also threatened to slit the throat of 24-year-old Abhishek Sargara, who is also a member of VHP.

The incident was reported in Jodhpurs Uday Mandir minutes after Sargara urged women to mandatorily watch Adah Sharma starrer The Kerala Story.

The film, directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, was released on 5 May.

Sargara has identified the three men as Pintu, Aman and Ali who beat him up and threatened him of dire consequences.

Jodhpurs Dalit mans WhatsApp status on The Kerala Story

After watching the film, Sargara uploaded his WhatsApp status in which he wrote that The Kerala Story is a must-watch and all the all the girls should watch the film in order to remain safe from conversions.

Talking to News18, Sargara said: After watching The Kerala Story, I uploaded a status on my WhatsApp in which I urged everyone to watch the film. I also wrote that all the girls around the world must watch this film so that they save their sisters and daughter from conversion and protect their lives.

Just a while after I uploaded the status, somebody saw it. When I was returning home, some people stopped me and asked me to show my WhatsApp status They then started beating me and threatened to slit my throat, he added.

Derawar Singh, ACP, Jodhpur said that a FIR has been registered and further probe into the matter is underway. Relevant charges under IPC (Indian Penal Code) have been slapped on the accused.

Justice for Abhishek Sargara

Jitendra Sharma, VHP district head, Jodhpur said the WhatsApp status posted by Sargara had nothing objectionable against any religion or caste.

Despite reading his status and finding nothing wrong in it, 15-20 people brutally hit VHP member Sargara, Sharma said.

Abhishek Sargara managed to save his life and rushed inside his house. An FIR has been registered against those responsible, Sharma added.

Locals have been demanding for arrest of all those responsible for beating and threatening the Dalit youth in Jodhpur.

Rajasthan will not tolerate appeasement politics

Hitting out at Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government in Rajasthan, National Spokesperson of BJP and Member of Parliament from Jaipur, Rajyavardhan Rathore said, The people of Rajasthan will not tolerate this appeasement politics.

In a video message, Rathore asked, Has watching a movie become a crime in Rajasthan? Has it become a crime to post film status on WhatsApp?

             WhatsApp status   !          ?    status WhatsApp       ?          #TheKeralaStory https://t.co/24FC7BOmaP pic.twitter.com/AuqOT6UyBn  Col Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) May 7, 2023

The Kerala Story controversy

The teaser of the film was released in November 2022 which claimed that 32,000 women from Kerala were converted to Islam and recruited by the terror group, Islamic State. The number being cited was questioned and second, is the life of the film's central character, Fathima Ba, which was claimed to be based on true events.

The Censor Board issued an 'A' certificate to The Kerala Story and reportedly deleted 10 scenes.

Political parties, including the ruling CPI(M) and the Congress, in Kerala are opposed to the "false claim" the film promotes.

The Kerala Story shows alleged religious indoctrination in Kerala and how Hindu and Christian women are being targeted by radical Islamic clerics.

The Congress sought a ban on screening of the film, while Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called it a "Sangh Parivar propaganda" piece.

With inputs from agencies

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At a cursory glance, Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari doesnt seem to be a bad speaker. Thats the impression one gets while listening to an exclusive interview he gave to a news channel during his recent India visit. However, to make an impression out of it would be naive and hazardous, given that he chose to talk to a journalist of his choice. Still, the interview doesnt seem to put him in good stead, further reinforcing the notion of him being an irresponsible, reckless speaker, prone to creating a foot-in-mouth situation for himself and the country he represents.

Howsoever one may be tempted to believe, the fact of the matter is that diplomacy isnt just about talking  and even less about talking aloud; it is, in fact, more about conducting ones affair stealthily, without garnering unnecessary attention. Bilawal should have taken a cue from his illustrious grandfather who, to his credit, had mastered the art of turning adversity to his advantage  the 1972 Shimla agreement between India and Pakistan is a case in study. Unfortunately, for Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the only time he could not outdo his opponent was when he met Gen Zia-ul-Haq, a more than a match for him in terms of cunningness. Gen Zia, who, if Zulfiqar Bhuttos biographer Syeda Hameed (Born to be Hanged; 2017) is to be believed, had once rushed to clean Bhuttos shoes after a few drops of tea fell on them, didnt think twice in sending him to the gallows following a sham trial.

Zulfiqar Bhutto hated India and Indians. He was known for using four-letter words while speaking to an Indian across the negotiating table. But then, when needed, he had an uncanny ability to conceal this intense hatred with a smile on his face. So subtle but dangerous was his slyness that Indira Gandhi, just before the 1972 Shimla meet, was advised by RN Kao, the then R&AW chief, to immediately count her fingers after shaking hands with Bhutto. Yet, Indias iron lady shook his hand in good faith, but having shaken it she forgot to count her fingers, as former diplomat Rajiv Dogra writes much elan in Where Borders Bleed (2015). The result: India lost on the negotiable table in Shimla what it had gained on the battlefield.

It would be too much to expect Bilawal to match up to the chameleon character of his grandfather, who could admire Napoleon and Marx in the same breath without contradicting himself, who could even invoke the Quran and the Das Kapital without losing credibility. One is more often than not born with such traits. But it would not have taken much effort or training on Bilawals part to learn the basic language of diplomacy, to realise that the usage of terms like butcher for the head of a government is plain stupid, especially for someone heading the diplomacy department of a country.

Bilawal, during his United Nations speech in December last year, had called Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a democratically elected leader of India, the butcher of Gujarat. Even by Pakistans own standards, and despite its inherent anti-India-ism, this was a new low: Pakistans national leaders had always maintained forked tongues  one for public consumption, and another for the private. Bilawal needs to read former Pakistan Ambassador SK Lambahs book, In Pursuit of Peace (2023), to realise how even the fiercest of Indias critics, Gen Zia, who saw Pakistans struggle with India in religious/civilisational terms, would invariably see of Indian visitors to the car and discreetly place a gift for them, usually a carpet. As former Ambassador and Pakistan expert Vivek Katju wrote in his recent Firstpost article, referring to Bilawals butcher of Gujarat comment for Prime Minister Modi, Never have such obnoxious words been used by even Pakistan against an Indian prime minister. The very fact that this comment has come from a foreign minister of Pakistan, sums up the quality (in a Machiavellian term) of that countrys current political leadership.

One can understand the naivete of Bilawals foreign policy (thanks God for that!) from the fact that he puts preconditions on talks with India. Bring back Article 370 and restore the statehood of Kashmir, thundered Bilawal in Goa. It may be good for the domestic audience, but for global optics its a self-goal. He, again, could have taken a cue from his predecessors who while patronising and promoting anti-India terror outfits on Pakistani soil, never failed to invoke the need for dialogue with India. They just knew very well what the US-led West wanted to hear  and thus spoke peace just for the sake of it.

Bilawals best bet against India would have been his call for unconditional peace talks. Theres still a strong aman ki asha constituency in India, though its number has been depleting over the years. It would have made the usual suspects go moist-eyed, calling for peace talks with Pakistan. Bilawal should also have realised that his grandfather could stump India in Shimla not just because of his mujh par bharosa kijiye (Trust me) gambit. He could outmanoeuvre India because there was  and has always been  a constituency that believed in the good Pakistani versus bad Pakistani plot; even the army versus civilian narrative had its takers. This phony understanding of Pakistan gave a civilian Prime Minister in Zulfiqar Bhutto a chance to fool Indira Gandhi, something which Nawaz Sharif and later the civilian avatar of Gen Pervez Musharraf repeated with Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh respectively.

Here, one needs to recall the story of PN Dhar, who was with Indira Gandhi when the Shimla Accord was signed. In one of his accounts, Dhar recalled his meeting with Pakistani diplomat Aziz Ahmed in 1975. When he complimented Aziz for the Shimla feat, the latter said matter-of factly: It was not Pakistans skills but Indias strong desire for positive results that had made the summit a success.

It is here that Bilawal failed to understand and appreciate the sagacity of the foreign policy of his predecessors. And it is on this very parameter that the Modi government must be complimented for sticking to its post-Pathankot stand. Since the terror attack on the IAF base in Pathankot in 2016, the Modi dispensation has taken a starkly different position than other Indian governments of the past: While the previous dispensation would get weak-kneed every time a fresh peace proposal would come from the other side of the border. They would take the Pakistani proposal at the face value. The Modi government, in the past seven years, has avoided falling into such pitfalls, which is no mean feat given the Indian temptation to fall for peace overtures  and also the Western propensity to push for such vacuous exercises every now and then.

Be that as it may, the fact is it wouldnt have been that easy for India had there been a Musharraf or a Zulfiqar Bhutto leading the Pakistani charge at the SCO meet in Goa. But with Bilawal at the helm, it was a kind of a walkover for Indias diplomatic team that is currently being handled quite deftly by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

India should, indeed, be thankful to Pakistan for managing to have a Foreign Minister whose conduct has been largely undiplomatic, to say the least.

The author is Opinion Editor, Firstpost and News18. He tweets from @Utpal_Kumar1. Views expressed are personal.

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Humne maana ki taghaful na karoge lekin, khaq ho jaayenge hum tumko khabar hone tak (No doubt that you will respond without least delay [to my woes], but by the time you hear them, I would be no more).

This couplet by the legendary poet Ghalib sums up the perils of information delays. The same would be true about intelligence in the military domain. Intelligence, in any form  information intelligence, image intelligence, signal intelligence, or electronic intelligence  is composed of three distinct components: gathering, processing, and dissemination. Enough gathering, quick processing, and timely dissemination to the appropriate location.

Kargil Committee Report  From surprise to Reckoning  records, The Review Committee had before it overwhelming evidence that the Pakistani armed intrusion in the Kargil sector came as a complete and total surprise to the Indian Government, Army and intelligence agencies as well as to the J&K State Government and its agencies. The Committee did not come across any agency or individual who was able clearly to assess before the event the possibility of a large-scale Pakistani military intrusion across the Kargil heights.

Exactly two decades later, the Pulwama attack in Feb 2019 and Galwan incident in June 2020 were again attributed to gaps in intelligence. Foreign Policy publication dated 27 August, 2020, went to the extent of reporting that China was taking advantage of Indias intelligence failures. According to reports, a repeat of the Galwan incident was successfully avoided later due to timely intel provided by the US under the new intelligence-sharing agreement signed in 2020 between the Indian and US governments known as the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation, or BECA. This was widely heralded as a triumph of meaningful cooperation between India and the United States in the sharing of actionable intelligence. The fact remains, however, that timely intelligence on Indian territory had to come from the United States.

Intelligence Failure or Inadequate Intelligence?

On the surface, intelligence failure and inadequate intelligence appear to be synonyms, but a hazy understanding of the distinction between the two can lead to incorrect corrective action. Intelligence failure could imply that intelligence was available but was not implemented either due to insufficient analysis or organisational inefficiency. Inadequate intelligence, on the other hand, may indicate a lack of resources to acquire the desired intelligence. It is critical to distinguish between the two because the corrective action for each is different. The absence of intelligence prior to a military disaster is frequently and loosely referred to as intelligence failure, but inadequate resources could also be a factor. The exact cause needs to be examined carefully.

Intelligence Gathering  Resources

The emphasis here is on resources rather than sources because the former can be identified while the latter cannot be commented on for obvious reasons. All forms of intelligence are valuable, but image intelligence is the most reliable source for identifying changes that lead to an event and subsequent operational planning. Do we have sufficient image intelligence?

Lack of intelligence leading to Kargil incursions led India to purchase Heron and Searcher UAVs from Israel for all the three services, which are still operational, though their number has reduced owing to a few crashes. While these platforms offer good reconnaissance capability, both in day and night, they lack the surveillance capability provided by a Global Hawk kind of platform in terms of quality, coverage and persistence. Moreover, they do not have satcom connectivity thus limiting their range owing to line of sight operations.

It is also pertinent to understand the subtle difference between reconnaissance and surveillance. While reconnaissance involves more of confirmation of presence or absence of something perceived to be there, surveillance is to find new things out of nothing and with no prior information. If a torch is enough for the former, search light would be necessary for the latter. High resolution satellites are necessary for mounting credible surveillance.

There are very few Earth Observation Imaging satellites launched by India, and even fewer radar satellites. EO satellites have the limitation of only providing images at specific times of the day and in good weather. Radar images, while available at all times of day and night, are extremely difficult to interpret and invariably require a visual image reference for correlation. Another issue is the long gaps in revisit time caused by the smaller number of satellites. Round-the-clock surveillance is impossible without a sufficient number of both EO and radar satellites.

Fighter planes like the SU-30 or Jaguar can conduct reconnaissance missions, but they are severely limited by the need to stay within our own borders during peacetime. Another challenge is the lack of long on-station time required to conduct meaningful reconnaissance.

Intelligence Processing

Good intelligence is often a prerequisite for military success. Irrespective of how formidable a weapon system is, it would still be necessary to know the enemys location, capabilities, and intentions. Actionable intelligence has to be gleaned out of huge data available. Operations in peace time and in contested space are two different things. Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance capabilities that work well in counter terrorism or permissive environment cannot be superimposed in a contested high threat environment. The processing will have to be done at super-fast speed. Millions of devices will be providing information during an active operation and it will be humanly impossible to extract all the actionable intelligence from gibberish. Software solution in terms of Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning application is necessary.

Plethora of information flowing in from different sources and laborious sifting creates a cry wolf situation at times. To achieve speed, size of the strainer holes keeps increasing and resultantly vital pieces of information also get filtered out as trash which can cost the nation dearly. Software assistance can draw attention to the most valuable inputs amongst huge data and raise red flags. Suitable algorithms will have to be generated for the purpose.

AI/ML applications in intelligence processing will also eliminate human biases such as cognitive bias and confirmation bias, in which people tend to believe what they want to believe. It is reasonable to assume that Russian leadership was influenced by such biases when assessing intelligence on Ukrainian resistance. The goal is not to delegate decision-making authority to software. Humans will still make decisions, but software can assist them by searching through much larger amounts of data much more quickly. Leaders must be enabled to make decisions with speed for which they must be able to analyse intel with speed.

Intelligence Sharing

India may lack intelligence gathering resources, but it certainly has an abundance of intelligence agencies. Apart from RAW and IB, each of the three services has its own intelligence wing. Furthermore, the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) was established in 2002, and National Technical Research Organisation was established in 2004, specifically to fill intelligence gaps as a result of the Kargil Committee recommendations. All of these agencies conduct regular coordination meetings and share useful data with one another, though many would be hesitant to share it in depth due to source confidentiality. It is not the sharing of information at these meetings that is important; rather, it is the timely dissemination of information at the end point.

Former IB Chief AS Dulat hinted at the Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh in 2018 that intelligence on the Kargil intrusions existed prior to the conflict4. Same was corroborated very recently, around mid-April 2023, by the former RAW Chief Vikram Sood in conversation with Smita Prakash in her podcast5. He states that multiple inputs were available from different sources regarding the incursions in Kargil sector, which were duly submitted. Why these inputs did not reach where they should have, or did not attract due attention, or were not acted upon with the seriousness they deserved  is typically a case of organisational intelligence failure.

The challenge in future will be even more complex where its not only intel dissemination but dissemination of Intel in real time that would be paramount. The intel cannot travel in files or in Compact Discs. It will have to ride on the web for which a common medium of intelligence sharing and dissemination amongst all the agencies would have to be in place. In the age of information sharing to build Space Situational Awareness or Maritime Domain awareness in QUAD, lack of real time common intel picture within the country cannot be justified.

Way Forward

To be a credible partner in the worlds intelligence sharing mechanism, India must develop credible capability to contribute meaningfully. Space-based intelligence resources must be improved. Because it is profitable, the emphasis remains on launching an increasing number of communication satellites. India must increase its space presence in imaging satellites while also increasing its surveillance persistence by inducting a sufficient number of HALE (High Altitude Long Endurance) unmanned platforms.

AI/ML application tools must be developed to process information quickly and commanders must be trained to assimilate that with equal speed. A common format and medium must be developed for real-time sharing of actionable intelligence at the point of action. In a war, the demand for real-time actionable intelligence is only just, and like justice  intelligence delayed is intelligence denied.

The author is a retired fighter pilot, former Air Advisor at High Commission of India, London and Director General (Inspection & Safety), Indian Air Force. Views expressed are personal.

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New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has instructed all political parties and candidates to obtain clearance from the media certification and monitoring committee (MCMC) before publishing any advertisements in the print media on the day of voting and a day prior in response to complaints regarding unverified claims in political advertisements.

In a letter to the political parties dated 7 May, the poll body said, No political party or candidate or any other organisation or person shall publish any advertisement in the print media on poll day and one day prior to poll day unless the contents of political advertisement are got pre-certified by them from the MCMC committee at the State/District level, as the case may be.

ECI on Sunday also held all major local newspapers in the state responsible for all matters including advertisements published in their newspapers.

Citing the Press Council of Indias norms for journalistic conduct, the ECI, in a letter said, An editor shall be responsible for all matters, including advertisements, published in the newspaper. If responsibility is disclaimed, this shall be explicitly stated beforehand.

It said to the political parties that instances of advertisements of an offending and misleading nature published in print media have been brought to the notice of the commission in the past.

Such advertisements in the last stage of the election vitiate the entire election process, ECI said.

In the advisory to the parties, the poll body also stressed on clean and serious campaign which is set to end on Monday for the Karnataka assembly elections.

The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on 10 May and the counting of votes will take place on 13 May.

With inputs from agencies

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Moscow: Russias Wagner Group of mercenaries has appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine after its chief on Sunday said that Russia had promised his fighters enough ammunition to stay in the region.

On Friday, Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin had said that his fighters, who have spearheaded a months-long assault on Bakhmut, would pull out after being starved of ammunition and suffering useless and unjustified losses as a result.

Overnight we received a combat order they promised to give us all the ammunition and armaments we need to continue the operations in Bakhmut, Prigozhin said.

His group has been assured that everything necessary will be provided, he added.

Rivalries between Prigozhin and the conventional army had boiled over during the battle for the now-devastated flashpoint, where Wagner is leading the assault.

Prigozhin had blamed Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for tens of thousands of Russian casualties in a series of blistering, profanity-laced videos on Friday.

Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable, he said.

The internal row comes as Russia has reported increasing drone strikes and sabotage inside its territory ahead of an expected spring counteroffensive from Ukraine.

Ukraine also reported casualties early Monday morning from fresh Russian strikes on Kyiv overnight.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said at least four people in two separate districts had been injured in the drone attack, while the citys military administration reported that suspected falling debris had also hit a two-story building, with information on potential victims still being clarified.

In Odessa, the district military administration reported an airstrike hitting a warehouse, adding that there has not been any information about victims.

Dying so you can get fat

In one of his previous video broadsides against the Russian army, Prigozhin stood before what he said were rows of dead Wagner fighters.

They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your wood-panelled offices, he said.

On Saturday, he asked Moscow to let him hand over his positions to Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, who had said that his forces were ready to move toward Bakhmut.

Prigozhin has for months accused the conventional army of refusing to deliver ammunition to his men.

Nevertheless, the emotive language used in Fridays videos and the ferocity of his attack on the leaders of Russias campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

On Sunday, Prigozhin said Russian General Sergei Surovikin, one of Gerasimovs deputies, would oversee Wagners operations.

He is the only decorated general that knows how to fight, Prigozhin said in a fresh dig at Russias other army chiefs.

Surovikin was named military commander in Ukraine in October.

Three months later, he was replaced by Gerasimov, whom Prigozhin regularly criticises.

 Everything possible 

Russian troops have battled since last summer to capture Bakhmut, the political importance of which has come to surpass any strategic value.

On Saturday, the commander of Ukraines ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the eastern front.

The enemy is not going to change its plans and is doing everything possible to take control of Bakhmut, Syrsky said in a statement published on Sunday.

Ukraine has been gearing up for a counteroffensive, with some experts suggesting that the drone strikes and acts of sabotage on Russian-held territory are part of its preparations.

The strikes precede Russias May 9 public holiday, a central event under President Vladimir Putin that celebrates the Soviet victory over the Nazis in World War II.

On Sunday, the Russian army said it had repelled 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea.

Shortly before, authorities in Russian-annexed Crimea, surrounded by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, said they had downed more than 10 drones over the southern peninsula.

The Russian security services also said they thwarted a drone attack on an airfield in the Ivanovo region.

Unpredictable

As the counteroffensive looms, Moscow has ordered families with children and elderly members to temporarily evacuate a slew of Russian-held areas in southern Ukraine.

More than 1,500 people have been evacuated, including 632 minors, the governor of the southern Zaporizhzhia region said Sunday.

The partial evacuations concern at least 18 towns and settlements, including the town near Europes largest nuclear plant.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Saturday.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.

Meanwhile, Russian pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin issued a defiant message on Sunday, a day after being wounded in an attack on his car that killed his assistant.

I tell the demons: you will not intimidate anyone, Prilepin wrote on Telegram in his first message since the attack.

Moscow has blamed Ukraine and the United States for the car attack, which Kyiv has suggested was due to in-fighting between rival Russian factions.

With inputs from agencies

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Alibaba Group Holding is the latest Chinese Big Tech giant to reveal its anticipated response to ChatGPT, as the race to create a home-grown counterpart to Microsoft-backed OpenAIs successful chatbot continues to garner resources and broad attention in China.

On Friday, Alibaba Cloud announced the launch of their new service, Tongyi Qianwen, through its official WeChat account, and has opened the chatbot to invite-only beta testing for business clients.

Also read: AI Impostors: Baidu sues Apple and iOS developers over fake Ernie bot apps on Apples app store

The home page for Tongyi Qianwens website is brief, with little information regarding the services functions, which are defined as a productivity assistant and idea generator dedicated to responding to human commands using a large language model (LLM).

The terms of service for the chatbot revealed that its is created by Damo Academy, Alibabas in-house scientific research organisation. In February, the Hangzhou-based e-commerce giant disclosed that its research institute was developing an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot.

Damo Academy originally announced its AliceMind LLM during the World AI Conference in September, when deputy head Zhou Jingren revealed it. He defined it as a multimodal pre-trained language model capable of processing a variety of inputs such as text, graphics, audio, and video.

According to a deck showcasing AliceMind, the language model might be utilised in a large number of domains like e-commerce, managing smart cities, healthcare, agriculture, smartphone photography, autonomous driving, and various other aspects of the Internet of Things.

Also read: Chinas Baidu cancels public showcase for Ernie AI, its ChatGPT rival, shows it behind closed-doors

Damo previously said that their LLM has been tested by customers and in hundreds of internal application situations, including integration into Taobao.

LLMs or large language models, are taught using machine learning and are the foundation for AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT, allowing them to answer complex inquiries and create elaborate texts, code, or other material.

While China has been a world leader in several areas of AI, the United States developed more than half of the worlds major language and multimodal models last year, as per Stanford Universitys newest Artificial Intelligence Index Report.

So far, few users on social media have had the opportunity to test Tongyi Qianwen, but some have already found similarities to Baidus Ernie Bot and OpenAIs ChatGPT. On Friday, an account called Zhiwei took a trial of the service, claiming that all three are by and large the same, with some minor variances.

According to Zhiwei, ChatGPT struggles with sophisticated Chinese, whereas Baidus Ernie Bot provides more confused responses to queries designed to test common sense, despite being more proficient at creative writing assignments.

Also read: How China is developing its own parallel generative AI universe by copying Stable Diffusion and DALL-E2

Alibabas ChatGPT-like service comes only weeks after their competitor Baidu launched the Ernie Bot in a highly publicised manner. The internet search giants mid-March launch event did not include a live preview though, which gave the beta product a bumpy start, but it eventually garnered more good reviews from early customers.

Tongyi Qianwen is also being presented only days before Alibabas annual cloud summit, which begins on Tuesday in Beijing.

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War-torn Syria has rejoined the Arab League after being expelled for about 12 years.

The process of bringing Damascus back into the Arab fold was termed the Jordanian Initiative after a summit of top regional officials from Egypt, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria took place in Jordan last week.

Foreign ministers from the Arab Leagues member nations decided to reinstate Syrias membership at a meeting held at the organisations headquarters on Sunday in Cairo.

Syria was reinstated ahead of the May 19 Arab League Summit in Saudi Arabia after being dropped when President Bashar al-Assad launched a crackdown on demonstrators in early 2011.

Al-Assad might attend the upcoming Arab League meeting in Saudi Arabia, according to the organisations secretary general.

After President Bashar al-Assad ordered a crackdown on demonstrators in March 2011, the country descended into a civil conflict that has since claimed about 500,000 lives and displaced another 23 million people.

According to Jordans top diplomat, Arab nations have been seeking normalisation as al-Assad tightened his grip on Syrian territory and working towards a Arab-led political path to resolve the situation.

Syria requested mutual respect from other Arab nations on Sunday after the Arab League decided to readmit it.

The Syrian foreign ministry stated in a statement that Arab nations should adopt an effective approach based on mutual respect and emphasised the importance of joint work and dialogue to undertake the challenges facing Arab countries.

The normalisation of relations with Damascus has drawn criticism from opposition organizations, but the Arab bloc maintained it was the right course to take.

We value diversity of thought on this matter. According to Hossam Zaki, assistant secretary-general of the Arab League, We understand what the opposition has been saying and we do respect that they are in a tough position.

The Syrian conflict has had very serious spillover consequences on the neighbouring nations. Arab nations in particular feel that this issue needs to be resolved, as do the adjacent nations and the area overall. This is how we got here, Zaki continued.

Saudi Arabia had long opposed normalising ties with al-Assad, but this month Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud made his first trip to Damascus in more than a decade. Additionally, the two nations are reopening their embassies and flights between them.

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At least seven people were killed and at least ten more were injured after an SUV ploughed into a throng of people waiting for a bus outside a migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday. Police were getting ready to apprehend the hospitalised driver.

Some of the victims were sitting on the curb at the unidentified city bus stop since there was no bench there about 8:30 a.m. when the vehicle struck them, according to CCTV footage from the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Centre. Police do not know whether the crash was deliberate, according to Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval.

Law enforcement said they were treating the incident as an accident for now, though a witness told AFP the driver had yelled insults at the group before accelerating.

The grey sport utility vehicle went through a red light and ran over several people at around 8:30 am (1330 GMT) in Brownsville, a border city at the southernmost tip of the state, Sandoval told AFP.

He said seven people died and nearly 10 other people were injured.

Witness Luis Herrera, whose arm was hurt in the incident, told AFP the crash was sudden.

A woman went by in a car and warned us to get out of the way, he said.

It was a matter of moments. The killer came (through) in the car, gesturing at us, insulting us, the 36-year-old Venezuelan said.

Herrera then described the driver as accelerating the car with full force.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said the SUV ran up the curb, flipped and continued moving for about 200 feet (60 meters). Some people walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet (9 meters) from the main group were also hit, Maldonado said. Witnesses detained the driver as he tried to run away and held him until police arrived, he said.

This SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about 100 feet (30 meters) away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop, said Maldonado, who reviewed the shelters surveillance video.

Victims struck by the vehicle were waiting for the bus to return to downtown Brownsville after having spent the night at the overnight shelter, said Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.

Most of the victims were Venezuelan men, Maldonado said. Brownsville has seen a surge of Venezuelan migrants over the last two weeks for unclear reasons, authorities said. On Thursday, 4,000 of about 6,000 migrants in Border Patrol custody in Texass Rio Grande Valley were Venezuelan.

Sandoval said the driver was taken to the hospital for injuries sustained when the car rolled over. There were no passengers in the car, and police didnt immediately know the drivers name or age, Sandoval said Sunday afternoon.

Sandoval said there are three possible explanations for the collision: It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two.

Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released, Sandoval said. Then well fingerprint him and (take a) mug shot, and then we can find his true identity.

Police retrieved a blood sample and sent it to a Texas Department of Public Safety lab to test for intoxicants.

The surge in the number of migrants this week has prompted Brownsville commissioners to indefinitely extend a declaration of emergency during a special meeting Thursday.

We dont want them wandering around outside, Pedro Cardenas, a city commissioner, said Sunday after the crash. So, were trying to make sure theyre as comfortable as they can be so they dont have to go out and look for anywhere else.

Brownsville has long been an epicentre for migration across the US-Mexico border, and it has become a key location of interest for next weeks end to pandemic-era border restrictions known as Title 42. The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in the city and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody.

Maldonado said the centre had not received any threats before the crash, but they did afterwards.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, Maldonado said.

About 2,500 migrants have crossed through the river daily into Brownsville in the past few days, Cardenas said. He said the Border Patrol is aware of the citys capacity of 1,000 at their processing area near the crossing point and a downtown building where city employees and volunteers guide migrants on how to purchase bus or plane tickets to their final destinations. Cardenas said that the city is considering expanding services to accommodate needs in the coming days.

While 80 per cent of people released from federal custody leave the same day, the citys emergency management official said, a bottleneck has formed over the past few days.

Most of the people coming across dont want to stay in Brownsville, but we dont have enough buses for them to buy their ticket to leave, Cardenas said. Some are waiting for family members.

The Ozanam shelter can hold 250, but many who arrive leave the same day. In the last several weeks, an uptick in border crossings prompted the city to declare an emergency as local, state and federal resources coordinated enforcement and humanitarian response.

In the last two months, weve been getting 250 to 380 a day, Maldonado said.

While the shelter offers migrants transportation during the week, they also use the citys public transportation.

Rochelle Garza, president of the Texas Civil Rights Project, said in a statement shared Sunday afternoon: I hope that today serves as a wake-up call, and that state officials will begin investing in a humanitarian response that might have helped the people who were impacted by this mornings tragedy.

US Rep. Vicente Gonzalez said Sunday that local officials are in communication with the federal government about the crash.

We are all extremely sad and heartbroken to have such a tragedy in our neighbourhood, he said.

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Iran has been putting people on the gallows left and right, so much so that a finding by Iran Human Rights (IHR) shows that authorities have been executing one person every six hours in the past ten days.

The new report comes just two days after Swedish-Iranian man Habib Farajollah Chaab was executed by Iran for allegedly killing people at a military parade in 2018.

In the last 10 days, over 42 people, half of whom belonged to the minority Baluch community, have been hanged to death by Iranian authorities.

Meanwhile, Iran witnessed over 194 executions in 2023 alone, according to numbers provided by the group. Only two of these death penalties were formally announced by authorities.

The report shows that most of the executions were carried out on people accused of drug offences.

Why was Habib Farajollah Chaab killed?

On Saturday, Iran announced the death of Habib Farajollah Chaab for killing dozens of people in 2018.

Chaab had been sentenced to death for being corrupt on Earth.

In 2022, Chaab was put on trial for leading the Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahwaz, a separatist movement that sought a state in the oil-rich Khuzistan province in southwestern Iran.

He was also accused of plotting and carrying out numerous bombings and terrorist operations.

Executions carried out to spread fear

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, the head of IHR said, The purpose of the executions is to create societal fear, not to fight crime.

The Islamic Republic has executed one person every six hours in the last ten days while the international community has remained silent. More than half of those executed were Baluch minorities and drug defendants from the most marginalised communities who are low-cost victims of the governments killing machine, he added.

Another report by IHR in collaboration with Frances Together Against the Death Penalty (ECPM) showed that executions in Iran rose by 75 per cent in 2022 with at least 582 people hanged to spread fear in the society.

Only 71 of these executions were officially recorded last year, official reports show. The rest were unannounced and secretly carried out and were reported by family members and eyewitnesses.

Mahmood said, The international reactions to the death sentences against protesters have made it difficult for the Islamic Republic to proceed with their executions.

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After missing a Sunday deadline to seek the court to attend, former US President Donald Trump will not testify in a civil trial to refute charges made by author E. Jean Carroll that he sexually assaulted her in the 1990s and later defamed her.

Trumps attorney Joseph Tacopina informed the judge on Thursday that Trump had decided not to provide a defence in the Manhattan federal court trial and had instead renounced his right to testify, betting that the jury would find Carrolls evidence to be unpersuasive.

Trumps legal team informed the court on Thursday that the former president will not testify in the case, Tacopina said in a statement in response to a Reuters request for comment.

US District Judge Lewis Kaplan instructed Tacopina to advise Trump that he had until Sunday at 5 p.m. EDT (2100 GMT) to inform the court whether he wanted to testify after the jury had departed for the day on Thursday.

On Monday, Kaplan scheduled the two parties closing arguments. Carroll, 79, accused Trump, 76, of sexually assaulting her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in 1995 or 1996, and he then defamed her by denying it ever place. Carroll filed her case against Trump last year. The former advice writer for Elle magazine is suing for alleged financial losses.

Carroll allegedly made up the claim to boost sales of her 2019 biography, according to Trump, who was president from 2017 to 2021 and is currently the front-runner for the Republican candidate for president of the United States in 2024.

In a video deposition played for the jury on Wednesday, Trump denied raping Carroll.

Its the most ridiculous, disgusting story, Trump said in the video, hunched over a conference table as Carrolls lawyers presented documents to him. Its just made up.

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The highly anticipated Google I/O is just about to take place, and its undoubtedly the event that both Google enthusiasts and Android fans are eagerly awaiting. Although the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro event is also on the horizon in the fall, its a close second.

The much-awaited event is set to commence on Wednesday, May 10, at 10 AM PT time (5 PM UTC) at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California. It will also be live-streamed on YouTube.

As usual, many of the surprises related to the new gadgets have been revealed in various leaks. However, there is still anticipation for possible unexpected announcements to be made during the event. Heres a summary of what to anticipate at I/O 2023.

Pixel Fold

Google is preparing to unveil its first foldable phone, the Pixel Fold, which rumours suggest, will have a design similar to the Oppo Find N and Find N2 models. The device will feature a 7.6-inch inner screen in landscape format, with an OLED main panel and a 120Hz refresh rate, as well as visible bezels.

The cover display will be 5.8 inches. The Pixel Fold is rumoured to have dimensions of 158.7 x 139.7 x 5.7mm, with a rear camera bump that adds 8.3mm to the thickness.

The Pixel Fold is expected to be powered by Googles Tensor G2 chipset, and it will come with two 12MP camera sensors on the back and two 8MP front-facing modules for both the main and cover screens. The device is said to be priced at $1,799 in the US and will reportedly go on open sale starting from June 27.

Pixel 7a

The Pixel 7a has been subject to numerous leaks recently, providing us with a good understanding of what to expect from the device. It will essentially be a slightly smaller version of the standard Pixel 7, with some cost-cutting measures applied to the cameras and materials used.

According to rumours, the Pixel 7a will feature a 6.1-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. It is expected to be equipped with the same Tensor G2 chip as the other two Pixel 7 phones, as well as 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.

The device is said to feature a dual camera system on the back, with a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP ultra-wide module, while the front-facing camera is rumoured to be a 13MP module. The Pixel 7a is expected to have a 4,300mAh battery with 18W wired charging and wireless charging, which would be a first for the Pixel A-series.

The Pixel 7a is set to launch at $499 in the US, and the device is confirmed to be available in India from May 11, with hopes that it will also be released in other regions.

Pixel Tablet

After being showcased at last years Google I/O conference and again at the Pixel 7 launch in October, the Pixel Tablet is finally expected to be officially unveiled this time around.

The device is rumoured to feature an 11-inch LCD screen with a 1600 x 2560 pixel resolution, a premium design, and the Tensor G2 chipset. Google intends for the Pixel Tablet to have multiple use cases, which is why it will also be launched with a Charging Speaker Dock, allowing users to transform the tablet into a smart speaker/Nest Hub device. There are also rumours that the Pixel Tablet will support stylus input and 18W wireless charging.

Android 14

Android 14 is currently available as a preview for developers and those who are willing to experiment with beta software. Although the initial builds appear to be almost identical to Android 13 in terms of their appearance and functionality, experts are uncovering numerous hidden features. Google is expected to reveal many of these features at Google I/O 2023 and is also planning to release Android 14 Beta 2 in May.

Googles big bet on AI

According to a report by the New York Times, Google responded urgently to the launch of ChatGPT, GPT-4 and Bings chat-based search by activating a code red internally. In response, the company quickly organized a Live from Paris event to showcase its own chat-based search engine called Google Bard.

Although Bard launched as a limited beta in the U.S. and U.K. in March 2023 and has received criticism for its flaws and humorous responses, it and other chatbots may revolutionize the way we use technology in the near future. Recent leaks suggest that Bard may soon be available as a widget on Pixel phones.

In addition to Google Bard, the company has other exciting AI innovations that it could unveil at Google I/O this year. The New York Times article highlights several of these, including an image generation studio for creating and editing images, a video summarization tool for generating shorter videos from longer ones, a third iteration of the AI Test Kitchen for testing upcoming AI features publicly, and an unnamed tool to help other companies build their own AI applications.

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An Amazon listing that was later taken down revealed that the Pixel Tablet is set to be launched in Japan on June 20. Furthermore, the leaked listing provided additional important details about the device. Screenshots of the listing captured via Reddit show that Amazon Japan had published a comprehensive listing of the Pixel Tablet, featuring images of the device in two different colours, Porcelain and Hazel.

The Pixel Tablet has a price tag of 79,800 (equivalent to $591) for a storage capacity of 128GB (using UFS 3.1 technology). A previous leak from April had estimated that the tablet would cost between 600-650 ($657 to $711)in Europe. The tablet is claimed to offer up to 12 hours of video streaming thanks to its built-in battery with a capacity of 27Wh.

Before it was taken down, local website WinFuture and some Twitter users managed to access the Pixel Tablet listing, confirming our previous report that the Tensor G2 chip would come with 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM. The listing also revealed that there would be two storage options, with the other one being 256GB.

Moreover, the Pixel Tablet boasts a 10.95-inch 25601600 LCD with 500 nits of brightness and support for USI 2.0 stylus. Other specifications of the Pixel Tablet include 8MP front and rear cameras that can capture 1080p at 30fps, three microphones, a quad speaker, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1, 4-pin accessory connector, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and Ultrawide Band (UWB), which has already been confirmed by the FCC.

It appears that Google is adopting a tiered strategy for its upcoming hardware releases, as evidenced by the expected launch of the Pixel 7a next week and the Pixel Tablet in June. This approach is further supported by the fact that the mid-range phone is already being leaked in retail locations, while there is no such information available yet for the large-screen Pixel Tablet. It remains uncertain whether the Pixel Fold will be launched alongside the Tablet.

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According to the Wall Street Journal, Google has plans to transform its search engine into a more visually appealing, personalized, and relatable platform with a focus on catering to young people worldwide. The company is aiming to incorporate human-like elements into its search engine to make it more engaging and interactive.

This effort comes at a time when AI-powered applications, including ChatGPT, are gaining popularity at a rapid pace. This trend underscores the potential of AI to disrupt traditional business models and reshape society in significant ways.

Also read: No takers for Bard AI: Google employees call Bard AI worse than useless and a pathological liar

Google intends to move away from the traditional 10 blue links format for presenting search results and plans to introduce more human-like voices as part of this shift, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The company is expected to launch new features at its upcoming I/O developer conference, which will allow users to engage in conversations with AI programs under a project code-named Magi, as reported by individuals familiar with the matter.

This year, generative AI has gained popularity, with applications capturing the publics imagination and prompting a race among companies to release similar products that they believe will transform the nature of work.

Alphabet Inc.s Google has yet to respond to Reuters request for comment.

Google, which generated over $162 billion in revenue last year through its advertising business powered by search, has made minimal changes to the search experience over the years.

Also read: AI War: Google launches Bard AI, not as potent as GPT-4 powered bots like Bing AI and ChatGPT

However, the rise of AI chatbots and short-video apps like TikTok has forced the company to place greater emphasis on responding to queries that cannot be easily answered by traditional web results. This will involve prompting visitors to ask follow-up questions or swipe through visuals like TikTok videos in response to their queries.

Google has already integrated some online forum posts and short videos in search results and plans to emphasize such material even more in the future, according to internal documents and sources.

Despite these changes, the company will continue to prioritize delivering high-quality information and supporting a healthy, open web.

According to John Battelle, the author of The Search, Google has the opportunity to lead a change in consumer behaviour around internet search, but other services may be chosen if Google does not move fast enough.

Also read: AI is dangerous, can threaten national security, society needs to adapt, says Google CEO Sundar Pichai

However, implementing major changes in search is difficult because millions of people rely on Google for critical tasks, and websites such as online news outlets depend on the search engine for a significant portion of their traffic.

Microsofts Bing has already incorporated conversational AI features into its search engine, and smaller search engines are also racing to incorporate these features in an attempt to win users.

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New Delhi: A new leak has revealed that Iran concealed weapons within earthquake aid to Syria to target US troops, according to a report citing leaked classified US intelligence.

According to a Washington Post report, the leaked US intel contains findings that raise dire questions about the ability of the US and its allies to intercept Iranian-sourced arms used routinely to target American personnel, partner forces and civilians in the Middle East.

According to the leaked intel assessment, the military equipment hidden in shipments included small arms, ammunition and drones.

It detailed that the delivery of the smuggled weapons were made using vehicle convoys from Iraq coordinated through friendly militant groups there and the Quds Force  the Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) overseas arm which provides material support to Iran-allied Shia militias in the region.

Citing a US defence official, the report said that this type of Iranian activity was consistent with past efforts by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to use humanitarian aid going into Iraq and Syria as a way to get materials to IRGC-affiliated groups.

According to the report, Iran and its affiliates mobilised quickly in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake.

On 7 February  a militia group based in Iraq allegedly orchestrated the transfer of rifles, ammunition and 30 [drones] hidden in aid convoys to support future attacks on US forces in Syria, according to the leaked intelligence documents cited by the Washington Post report.

It added that a Quds Force officer directed an Iraqi militia group to embed weapons within legitimate earthquake aid, while another Quds Force officer maintained a list of hundreds of vehicles and goods that entered Syria from Iraq after the earthquake, an apparent effort to manage where all of the trafficked weapons were headed.

Findings fake, says Iraq

Meanwhile, a senior official in Iraq Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudanis office told The Post that findings from the documents were fake.

In reality the borders are wide open; in fact we are still suffering from illegals sneaking through the Syrian border, The Post quoted the official as saying. Which means if these documents are right, its possible any time. Why wait for an aid convoy as a justification? the official added.

According to US officials, Iran-aligned groups pose a persistent threat to the roughly 900 US troops working with local forces in Syria to counter a resurgence of the extremist group ISIS.

In March, a US contractor was killed, and another was wounded in an attack at a base in Syria that was carried out by an Iranian-made drone, as confirmed by the Pentagon. The explosion also resulted in head injuries for several US service members.

However, US officials have stated that the drone was not brought into the country through one of the earthquake aid convoys, without providing additional details. Following the contractors death, the US launched airstrikes on Iranian-backed militias that were believed to be responsible for the attack, drawing a strong warning from President Biden to Tehran that the US would respond forcefully to violent assaults on American personnel.

With inputs from agencies

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The London Police is investigating the registration of three vehicles under the name of Pakistans former prime minister Nawaz Sharif without his consent or knowledge.

Nawaz Sharifs party PML-N has said that the vehicles could be misused for a crime or for terrorism, Dawn reported.

He has been living in self-imposed exile in the UK since 2019, while his brother Shehbaz Sharif is currently serving as the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Imran Khans PTI-led government had earlier cancelled Nawazs diplomatic passport after he was declared a proclaimed offender by a Pakistani court on corruption charges.

At first, Nawaz got to know about the vehicles falsely registered in his name when the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) sent a letter to his residence at Avenfield House along with the registration details of a vehicle attributed to him.

Later an investigation was launched after Nawazs office reported the activity in March to the DVLA.

The second incident took place last month when another vehicle was registered under the former Pakistani PMs name, said Khurram Butt, a London-based PML-N spokesperson.

Later on, the third vehicle under Nawazs name was discovered when a traffic violation fine was issued, which Butt claimed as uncovering a malicious attempt by some individuals to exploit the name and reputation of the PML-N leader for criminal purposes.

Authorities in London are further investigating the matter and following up on all leads, while Nawaz has reported been informed that his name was removed from the vehicle registrations.

Further, the ex-prime minister has been advised to pursue the matter with police as it revealed a fraudulent claim made in his name.

Meanwhile, the party spokesperson suspected that Nawazs name was being deliberately used for wrong purposes.

Also, he suspected that supporters of Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) were behind the fraudulent act.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Riyadh: A Saudi official on Monday said that ceasefire talks between Sudans warring generals in Saudi Arabia have yielded no major progress so far, dampening hopes for a quick end to the fighting.

Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of the Sudanese army, and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, his former deputy and current adversary and commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), sent officials to the Red Sea city of Jeddah on Saturday for negotiations that Washington and Riyadh have referred to as pre-negotiation talks.

Goals include reaching an effective short-term halt to the fighting, facilitating aid delivery, restoring basic services and setting a timetable for expanded negotiations to reach a permanent cessation of hostilities, the Saudi foreign ministry said in a statement Monday.

The two sides have begun to discuss the security measures they should take in order to facilitate the delivery of urgent humanitarian aid and the restoration of essential services, the statement said.

But a Saudi diplomat said on Monday that no major progress is achieved so far.

A permanent ceasefire isnt on the table. Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle, the diplomat added.

The UNs top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, arrived in Jeddah on Sunday intending to meet representatives of both camps, though his role in the process is unclear.

A spokesperson for Griffiths said on Sunday that he had arrived in Jeddah to engage in humanitarian issues related to Sudan.

A separate UN official said on Monday that Griffiths had asked to join the negotiations but that his request had not been approved so far.

The talks will continue in the following days, the Saudi foreign ministry said, without specifying a clear timeline.

Humanitarian crisis

Multiple truce deals have been declared, without effect, since fighting erupted on 15 April in the poverty-stricken country with a history of instability.

Fierce combat has killed hundreds of people, wounded thousands and sparked multiple warnings of a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

More than 100,000 people have already fled the country.

Saudi Arabia has assumed a major role in evacuations from Sudan, dispatching naval and commercial vessels to bring thousands of people from numerous countries across the Red Sea from the Sudanese coastal city of Port Sudan.

On Sunday, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directed $100 million to be donated for assistance to Sudan, including medical aid and help for displaced people, the official Saudi Press Agency reported.

Saudi officials will also organise a public donations campaign to mitigate the effects of the conditions that the Sudanese people are currently going through, the agency said.

In a Sunday meeting, US national security advisor Jake Sullivan thanked the Saudi crown prince, the kingdoms de facto ruler, for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan, the White House said in a statement.

With inputs from agencies

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The Pakistani government is expected to go ahead with its goodwill gesture to release on Friday 199 Indian fishermen arrested for allegedly fishing illegally in the countrys territorial waters, despite the death of an Indian civilian who was to be repatriated with them.

Kazi Nazir, a top police official in the jail and corrections department in Sindh, said that they had been told by relevant government ministries to prepare for the release and repatriation of 199 fishermen on Friday. These fishermen will be sent to Lahore and handed over to Indian authorities at the Wagah border. Currently, these fishermen are lodged at the Landhi jail in Karachi.

He said the goodwill gesture process appeared on course although an Indian civilian prisoner, Zulfiqar, who was to be repatriated with the fishermen died in a hospital in Karachi on Saturday due to ill health.

According to officials at Landhi jail the Indian prisoner had complained about high fever and chest problems and his condition deteriorated last week so he was sent to the hospital where he passed away due to apparent lung infection, he said.

An official of Edhi Welfare Trust, which usually arranges for the safe transportation of these Indian fishermen to Lahore and provides other help in jails, said that Zulfiqars death was not a mystery as conditions in the Landhi and Malir jails are far from ideal and prisoners with poor health and chronic ailments struggle to get regular proper treatment.

Prison doctors or the hospital are generally not equipped to deal with serious ailments and recommend sending the patient to hospital but sometimes it is too late, the official said.

According to the Pakistan India Peoples Forum for Peace and Democracy, at present 631 Indian fishermen and one civilian prisoner are still in the Landhi and Malir jails in Karachi despite completing their prison sentences.

Adil Sheikh, who works with the forum in Karachi, said that these Indian fishermen all ended up in Pakistani jails after being arrested for allegedly violating the marine territorial demarcation treaty between Pakistan and India.

Nearly all of them are poor illiterate people, he added.

In the past as well, a few Indian civilian prisoners have died in hospitals because of illnesses, as per prison authorities.

A total of 654 Indian fishermen are languishing in Karachi jails while an estimated 83 Pakistani fishermen are in Indian jails. Out of the 654 Indian fishermen, 631 have completed their sentences and are awaiting repatriation.

Pakistan and India regularly arrest rival fishermen for violating the maritime boundary, which is poorly marked at some points.

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The gunman who killed eight people including children in a Texas mall has been identified as a 33-year-old man named Mauricio Garcia. The police are still trying to identify the motive of the crime.

Garcia is a resident of Dallas, the Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed on Sunday. Police said Garcia killed eight people and wounded at least seven on Saturday afternoon at Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, a northern suburb of Dallas before he was killed by police.

Soon after the mass shooting took place, US President Joe Biden reiterated his stance on stricter gun laws. He also issued a statement demanding the ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as to enact universal background checks and end immunity for gun manufacturers.

According to the nonprofit group Gun Violence Archive, the Texas Mall shootings have been added to the list of 199 other gun violence that have occurred in the US this year.

The president also noted that Garcia had been wielding an AR-15 rifle and wearing tactical gear.

According to a report by ABC News, investigators found several handguns, long guns and ammunition inside Garcias car at the scene of the shooting.

A family member identified one of the slain victims on social media as Christian LaCour, a security guard.

We watched this sweet young boy turn into a very sweet gentleman, Kellie Smith wrote in a Facebook post on Sunday, identifying LaCour as the brother of her daughter-in-law. Words can not even begin to describe the devastation that our family feels.

Describing the conditions of the victims, the Allen police said that at least three wounded shoppers remain in critical condition while other three are hospitalised in fair condition, including one at a childrens hospital. The assailant fatally shot eight people including one child before he was killed by officers.

With inputs from agencies

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Under a set of white tents at the U.S.-Mexico border in Brownsville, Texas, dozens of Venezuelan men waited. Some sat on curbs and others leaned on metal barricades. When the gates eventually opened, the long line of men filed slowly up the pedestrian pathway to the bridge and across the Rio Grande River to Mexico.

In the past few weeks, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have been facilitating these expulsions three times a day as roughly 30,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have entered the U.S. in this region since mid-April. Thats compared with 1,700 migrants Border Patrol agents encountered in the first two weeks of April.

In the other end of the state, in El Paso, officials are dealing with another surge of migrants and worry that thousands more are waiting to cross.

All this comes as the U.S. is preparing for the end of a policy linked to the coronavirus pandemic that allowed it to quickly expel many migrants, and it spotlights concerns about whether the end of the immigration limits under Title 42 of a 1944 public health law will mean even more migrants trying to cross the southern border.

Weve been preparing for quite some time and we are ready. What we are expecting is indeed a surge. And what we are doing is planning for different levels of a surge, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said last week during a visit to southern Texas. But he also stressed that the situation at the border is extremely challenging.

He spoke from a location in Brownsville where U.S. officials had set up a tent and facilities like portable bathrooms for migrants. He said its difficult to identify the cause of the recent Venezuelan surge but said the U.S. is working with Mexico to address it and predicted change very shortly.

Many of those crossing the border are entering through Brownsville just north of the Mexican border town of Matamoros. The city was rocked by another crisis Sunday when an SUV plowed into people waiting at a bus stop across from the citys migrant shelter. Eight people, mostly men from Venezuela, died.

Ricardo Marquez, a 30-year-old Venezuelan man, arrived at a shelter in McAllen after crossing the border with his wife and 5-month-old child in Brownsville. They left Venezuela because his daughter needs surgery.

I was confronted with the decision to either stay there or risk it all for my daughter, he said. They had crossed the Rio Grande after spending a month in Matamoros trying to get an appointment through an app the U.S. uses to schedule appointments for people without documents to come to the border and seek entry.

Officials in President Joe Bidens administration say they have been preparing for well over a year for the end of Title 42. The strategy has hinged on providing more legal pathways for migrants to get to the U.S. without risking the perilous journey to the border. That includes things like setting up centers in foreign countries where migrants can apply to emigrate as well as a humanitarian parole process already in place with 30,000 slots a month for people from four countries to come to the U.S. Starting May 12 theyre expanding appointments available through the CBP One app Marquez tried to use. When it was launched many migrants and advocates criticized the app, saying it had technological problems and there simply werent enough appointments.

The strategy is also heavy on consequences. The U.S. is proposing a rule that would severely limit asylum to migrants who first travel through another country, quickly screening migrants seeking asylum at the border and deporting those deemed not qualified, and a five-year ban on reentry for those deported.

A lot of these consequences have been met with harsh criticism by immigrants rights groups who have gone so far as to compare the policies to then-President Donald Trumps and say the right to apply for asylum on U.S. soil is sacrosanct. Much of the Biden administration strategy is also facing legal peril in the coming weeks. The proposed rule limiting asylum is almost certain to be the subject of lawsuits. And Republican-leaning states want to stop the Democratic administrations use of humanitarian parole on such a large scale.

The administration has also been increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement flights to remove people from the country  flights like one that took off recently from an airport in Harlingen, Texas. Shortly after dawn three buses pulled up next to a plane. One by one migrants got out of the bus. They were wearing handcuffs and leg restraints and surgical masks. First they were patted down for contraband and then slowly walked up the stairs to the plane. Altogether 133 migrants were sent back to their home country of Guatemala.

But those flights only work if countries accept them. Venezuela does not. And Colombia says its suspending deportation flights due to cruel and degrading treatment of migrants.

Administration officials say theyre using technology to speed up the processing of migrants who cross the border without documentation and using mobile processing, so they can process migrants while theyre being transported by bus or van, for example. Theyve pushed to digitize documents that at one time were filled out by hand by Border Patrol. And theyve beefed up the hiring of contractors so agents can remain in the field.

But critics have slammed the administration, saying its not doing enough. Kyrsten Sinema, an independent U.S. senator from Arizona, said on CBS Face the Nation on Sunday that the administration wasnt communicating with local officials about things like what type of surge to expect or whether buses would be available to transport migrants. And she said a decision to send 1,500 military troops to the border came too late.

In Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott said Monday he was deploying tactical National Guard teams this week to the busiest crossing spots. Abbott, who for years has accused the Biden administration of not doing enough on the border, also said many thousands more migrants in the coming days will be bused by the state to Democratic-led cities elsewhere in the U.S.

It did not have to be this way, said Abbott, speaking in Austin as Guard members boarded four C-130 cargo planes behind him.

In communities that border Mexico, officials and community groups that care for newly arrived migrants are anxious about what the end of Title 42 means. Sister Norma Pimentel runs Catholic Charities Humanitarian Respite Center, the largest shelter in South Texas.

The shelter functions mainly as a resource center where migrants can purchase tickets, make calls, eat and rest before traveling to their next destination, where they often have family or other contacts. But, Pimentel said, many of the Venezuelans in this latest surge dont have connections in the U.S., making it harder for them to move to the next destination. That becomes a problem for us, she said.

The federal government gives money to communities to help them deal with the increases in migrants. On Friday the administration announced that $332 million had been disbursed to 35 local governments and service organizations. Most goes to communities close to the border due to the urgencies they are confronting, but cities far from the border also get funds.

In the Texas border city of El Paso, about 2,200 migrants are currently camped or living on the streets a few blocks from major ports of entry that connect El Paso with the Mexican city of Juarez. The city is prepared to open up shelters next week if needed at two vacant school buildings and a civic center.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser estimated that roughly 10,000 to 12,000 migrants are in Juarez waiting to cross, as local officials prepare for the unknown. Leeser said migrants are flocking to the border under false assumptions that it will be easier to gain entry to the U.S. when Title 42 goes away, but for many there could be tougher consequences.

Its a message federal officials have been repeating. But theyre competing against a powerful human smuggling network that facilitates northern migration and the desperation of migrants who feel they have no other option.

At the Brownsville port of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials say theyve run drills to prepare in case theres a surge of migrants trying to cross and they need to close the bridge. Pedestrians cross from Matamoros using a covered walkway that can only accommodate a few people across. Worried about the impact of long lines of migrants coming to the port after May 11 without an appointment and impacting port operations, theyre calling on people to schedule appointments through CBP One.

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Dmitry Rogozin, the former head of Russias Roscosmos space agency, has ruffled some feathers among global astronomy circles. Rogozin has voiced his scepticism on the narrative of whether the US Apollo 11 mission ever landed on the Moon in 1969, claiming that he has yet to see sufficient proof.

In a post on his Telegram channel on Sunday, Rogozin said he began his personal quest for the truth about ten years ago when he was still working in the Russian government, and that he became sceptical about whether the Americans had actually set foot on the Moon when he saw how exhausted Soviet cosmonauts looked upon returning from their flights, compared to how seemingly unaffected the Apollo 11 crew appeared.

Rogozin stated that at the time, he addressed requests for evidence to Roscosmos. All he got in return was a book with Soviet Cosmonaut Aleksey Leonovs story of how he met the American astronauts and learned they had travelled to the Moon.

When he was named head of Roscosmos in 2018, the former official said that he maintained his work. However, no proof was offered to Rogozin, according to him. Instead, he was chastised by numerous anonymous academics for damaging the sacred cooperation with NASA, as he claimed.

The former Roscosmos boss also claimed to have received an angry phone call from a top-ranking official accusing him of complicated foreign ties.

Rogozin finished by remarking that despite enormous technological advances since the late 1960s, the US was able to carry off the feat but is now unable to do so.

He also claims to have discovered that Washington has its people in [the Russian] establishment.

The Apollo 11 mission was the first manned journey to the Moon, with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin being the first people to walk on the lunar surface.

The unmanned Soviet Luna 2 programme, which paved the way for Moon exploration, came before the trip.

President Vladimir Putin committed in April to restart Russias lunar programme.

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At a time when the entire medical system of UK is on the verge of collapsing as patients and thousands of underpaid health workers protesting to seek governments attention, the Rishi Sunak administration is set to spend hundreds of millions of pounds on giving patients a better hold music when they wait on call for general practitioners.

According to reports, tory ministers will announce today that approximately 240 million will be spent installing new phone systems in doctors offices.

They said that because of the initiative, patients will never hear an engaged tone. However, it still leaves consumers with the possibility of having to wait while forced to endure obnoxious music and continuous reminders that they are in a queue.

Critics of this initiatives, mainly leaders of the opposition reacted by saying that patients desire more physicians rather than better hold music.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks shallow offer, according to shadow health secretary Wes Streeting, demonstrated his disconnect from patients.

He said, The Conservatives have slashed 2,000 GPs, which is why people cant get an appointment with a doctor. Better hold music wont make a difference in that.

Nothing in this announcement will increase the number of doctors in training, give patients the option of a face-to-face appointment, or reinstate the family doctor, allowing people to visit the same general practitioner every time, Streeting said before media.

He urged the Government to approve Labours proposal to train 7,500 additional physicians annually, which it claims could be funded by eliminating the non-domicile tax status.

Streeting believes, this would enable patients to easily book appointments to see the doctor they want.

What is promised?

The government asserts that the new technology will put a stop to the appointment scramble at 8 am.

According to the Department of Health, a typical practise with 10,000 patients frequently receives more than 100 calls in the first hour of Mondays.

Patients will receive a queue position, a call-back option, and their call can be directly routed to the right professional, it added of the new system.

Clinical systems will be integrated so that employees may recognise patients and their information by their number.

In an effort to shorten waiting lines, health secretary Steve Barclay said he was upgrading technology, hiring more people, and streamlining bureaucracy.

We are making real progress, he continued, with 10% more GP appointments taking place each month than there were prior to the pandemic.

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New Delhi: Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) on Sunday said that security forces have foiled an attempt by Ukrainian intelligence to attack a military airfield in central Russia with drones stuffed with explosives.

The FSB said that three Ukrainian agents, who have been arrested, used a small Aeroprakt A-32 plane to transport explosives from northern Ukraine to Russias Tula Region.

They allegedly planned to strike A-50 early warning and reconnaissance aircraft parked in an airfield near the city of Ivanovo, some 250km (155 miles) to the northeast of Moscow.

The pilot and locals recruited by Ukraine for the operation were apprehended upon landing, the FSB added.

The news comes after a string of train derailments and drone attacks on oil terminals on Russian soil.

On Thursday, two UAVs tried to strike the Kremlin in what Russian officials said was an attempt by Kiev to assassinate President Vladimir Putin. Ukraine denied its involvement in the raid.

On Friday, the FSB said it that had detained two Ukrainian nationals who were planning to kill an unnamed high-ranking official working at the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, which sits close to the frontline.

In December, drones attacked Dyagilevo and Engels military airfields, located 500km (310.7 miles) and 700km (435 miles) from Ukrainian-held territory, respectively. Six people were killed on the ground, and two planes received minor damage, according to officials.

Since invading Ukraine on 24 February, 2022, Moscow has repeatedly accused Kyiv of using drones to target Russian energy, logistics and military facilities.

Ukraine has denied being involved in attacks inside Russia, blaming them on Russian anti-government partisans or false flag operations orchestrated by Moscow itself.

With inputs from agencies

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1,680 people, including 660 children, have been ordered to evacuate by Putin from the vicinity of the nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhia that Russian forces have seized.

With this, the UNs nuclear watchdog has warned of a potential severe nuclear accident that might hit Enerhodar, next to Ukraines largest power plant.

The order, according to Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of Melitopol in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, generated mayhem and five-hour long car lines at the crossing into Crimea.

Reports suggest that after an official issued the evacuation order citing a growing human tragedy, hospitals started to close along with other utility stores along power and water supply.

The International Atomic Energy Agencys director general, Rafael Grossi, issued a warning that the situation is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

The announcement comes as Ukraine prepares for a springtime counteroffensive that will break the wintertime stalemate with a drive into seized areas in the south and east.

The movement of Ukrainian migrants to the seaside villages with beach access has not been verified yet.

As Russian residents attempted to relocate the locals kids to recreation centres in Kyrylivka and Berdyansk, some of them without their parents, LB.ua reported on Saturday that locals were hiding their kids.

In reality, only some of the evacuees are carried to the coast; instead, they are housed among the military and collaborators, Mr. Fedorov continued. Others are transported to Russias interior.

He claimed that Ukrainians who had been evacuated from Kherson the previous year had later discovered they were unable to go back home.

The 18 seized territories were evacuated on Friday, according to Russian state media.

Conflicts near the Zaporizhzhia power plant in the city of Enerhodar, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), pose a serious threat to public safety.

I have serious concerns about the plants very genuine nuclear safety and security hazards, said Grossi.

We must take immediate action to eliminate the threat of a serious nuclear accident and its ensuing effects on the populace and the environment.

Around the largest power plant in Europe, which was manned by Ukrainian employees under Russian control until September, both sides fought nonstop for months.

One of the ten largest nuclear power plants in the world, the Zaporizhzhia facility produced about half of the nuclear energy produced by Ukraines four reactors.

After the initial invasion, Ukrainian forces had little success attempting to retake the facility as missiles from both sides came perilously near to hitting the station.

Since then, Ukraine has issued a warning that any damage to the building might result in a catastrophe akin to Chernobyl.

Last Monday, Ukrainian President Zelensky demanded that Putin be brought before the Hague tribunal for his criminal acts.

This April, a counteroffensive from Ukraine is anticipated to end the winter standoff.

Leaks from the Pentagon in April showed that American officials questioned Ukraines capacity to launch a successful offensive.

As Wagner Group has threatened to leave Bakhmut, a disputed city in the east, Wagner Groups threat has made Russian confidence appear more vulnerable lately.

In recent days, Russia has declared that it is prepared to replace Wagner Group personnel with Akhmat special forces from Chechnya, but experts caution that the effectiveness may be exaggerated.

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Washington: The White House on Sunday confirmed that US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his Indian counterpart Ajit K Doval met in Saudi Arabia and that they will meet again later this month in Australia as part of the Quad Summit.

Doval and Sullivan are meeting for the first time since kicking off the ambitious India-US ICET (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology) discussion in January.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Advisor of India Ajit Doval on May 7 in Saudi Arabia to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world, the White House said Sunday in a readout of the meeting.

Sullivan also held bilateral meetings with the Crown Prince, Sheikh Tahnoon, and Mr. Doval to discuss bilateral and regional matters. He looks forward to further consulting with Mr. Doval on the margins of the Quad Summit later this month in Australia, the White House said.

With Crown Prince Mohammed, he reviewed significant progress in talks to further consolidate the now 15-month long truce in Yemen and welcomed ongoing UN-led efforts to bring the war to a close, as well as covering a range of other issues.

Mr Sullivan thanked the Crown Prince for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan. The four delegates agreed to maintain regular consultations and follow up on the matters discussed throughout the day, the White House said.

With inputs from agencies

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United States Presidential candidate for upcoming polls Robert F. Kennedy Jr. believes beyond a reasonable doubt that the CIA assassinated his uncle, President John F. Kennedy and father Robert F. Kennedy who served as US Attorney General in 1968.

The 69-year-old Democrat said that the counterintelligence agency was behind JFKs assassination during an appearance on a radio programme with John Catsimatidis on WABC 770 AM.

The CIAs involvement in his murder is clearly proven by the weight of the evidence. Kennedy said to the radio host, I think its beyond a reasonable doubt at this point. The CIA was involved in the murder and in the cover-up, there is overwhelming evidence of that,

The Proof

Kennedy Jr. cited JFK and the Unspeakable by James Douglas as his proof of the nearly 60-year-old cover-up.

Douglas spent 12 years writing the book, and three times Orbis Books rejected it before it was finally accepted.

There are numerous potential justifications in the 500-page book that the CIA and other government organisations might have used to assassinate the 35th President of the United States.

Lee Harvey Oswald carried out the fatal shooting by himself, according to the Warren Commission Report, the official inquiry conducted by the US government.

The 1964 study asserted that there was no solid proof he was involved in a plot to kill JFK.

Oswald was notoriously assassinated before going to trial, despite managing to tell media shortly after his arrest that he was just a patsy.

As the accused lone shooter was being taken from Dallas Police Headquarters to the county prison, nightclub owner Jack Ruby (real name Jacob Rubinstein) opened fire and killed him.

Nearly half of the American public did not think that Oswald had acted alone four years after JFK was assassinated.

This fact worried the CIA so much that it issued a directive in 1967 outlining how to discredit the so-called conspiracy theorists who disputed the Warren Commissions findings.

This 1967 paper is sometimes cited as the origin of the insulting phrase conspiracy theorist that is used today.

Vaccine hater

Kennedy Jr who is primary contender for the Democratic party has openly endorsed a number of conspiracy theories.

In addition, Kennedy Jr. has also been in the news for opposing COVID 19 vaccinations, which has caused groups and even family members to disassociate themselves from the presidential candidate.

In a statement last month, Kerry Kennedy, the director of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Organization, distanced herself and the organisation from her brother and his presidential campaign.

She remarked, I adore my brother Bobby, but I do not share or approve his ideas on a number of matters, including the COVID epidemic, vaccinations, and the function of social media platforms in regulating incorrect information.

The mission or activities of our organisation are not affected by or reflect Bobbys opinions, which is another crucial point to make.

Kennedy Jrs 2024 campaign

Last Monday, Kennedy formally announced his intention to run for president from Boston, challenging Democratic Vice President Joe Biden.

According to a survey in the US, Kennedy is currently between 19 and 21 points behind the incumbent President, who is comfortably at 70%.

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Beirut: Airstrikes over southern Syria early Monday killed one of the countrys most well-known drug dealers and his family, according to an opposition war monitor, attributing the strike to Jordan though Amman did not immediately confirm.

Drug dealer Marai al-Ramthan, his wife and six children were killed in a Jordanian air force strike in the eastern countryside of the Sweida province, near the Syrian-Jordanian border, the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Al-Ramthan is considered to be the most prominent drug trafficker in the region, and the number one smuggler of drugs, including captagon, into Jordan from that area, said the Observatory, which relies on a wide network of sources inside Syria.

The strikes come a day after Arab governments reinstated Syria to the Arab League following the countrys suspension for its crackdown on protests.

As Arab governments gradually rekindle ties with Damascus, one of the key topics of discussion has been Syrias illicit drug industry, which has flourished during the ongoing conflict  especially illegal amphetamine captagon.

Western governments estimate that captagon has generated billions of dollars in revenue for President Bashar Assad, his Syrian associates, and allies. Damascus has denied the accusations.

The first strike hit a home in the Syrian village of Shuab in Sweida province near the Jordanian border, killing Merhi Ramthan, his wife and six children, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The opposition war monitor and Sham FM reported another strike in the southern province of Daraa that hit a building. The Observatory said the building housed a drug factory.

The pro-government radio station did not give any further details. There was no immediate comment from either Jordanian or Syrian authorities.

Activists and the war monitor said they believe Jordan is likely behind the airstrike, with the captagon producer among the most-wanted by the Jordanian authorities for facilitating drug smuggling across the border with the backing of a small militia. They also say he is close with militias linked to Assad and the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah.

Jordan has frequently reported busting drug smuggling operations on its border with Syria, with its soldiers sometimes engaging in shootouts with drug cartels trying to break through from southern Syria. In recent years, Jordanian authorities have discovered millions of smuggled captagon pills, many of which were sent to oil-rich gulf nations.

Both Syria and neighboring Lebanon have become gateways for the drug to the Middle East, and particularly to the the Gulf.

In March, the US and UK slapped sanctions on four Syrians and two Lebanese involved in manufacturing and trafficking captagon.

The six include cousins of the Syrian president and well-known Lebanese drug kingpins. Weeks later, the European Union imposed sanctions on several Syrians, including members of Assads family, blaming them for the production and trafficking of narcotics, notably captagon.

With inputs from agencies

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Due to a severe lack of funding, the World Food Programme (WFP) will stop providing food assistance to more than 200,000 Palestinians starting next month, the organizations top representative for the Palestinian territories announced on Sunday.

In light of the severe funding shortages, WFP is forced to make painful choices to stretch the limited resources, Samer Abdeljaber, the WFPs country director, told Reuters by phone from Jerusalem.

WFP would have to start suspending assistance to over 200,000 people, which is 60 per cent of its current case load, from June.

Families in Gaza and the West Bank, where food insecurity and poverty are at their worst levels, are the most affected.

The UN organisation provides food baskets and monthly vouchers with a value of $10.30 per person to Palestinians who are in need. They will both be impacted.

According to Palestinian and UN data, Gaza is home to 2.3 million people, of whom 45 per cent are unemployed and 80 per cent rely on foreign aid. Gaza has been ruled by the Islamist Hamas party since 2007.

WFP understands the implications of this unavoidable and hard decision on hundreds of thousands of people who also depend on food assistance for their most basic needs, said Abdeljaber.

Citing security concerns with the enclaves Hamas rulers, Israel has led a blockade together with Egypt that has put restrictions on the movement of people and goods for years.

The UN agency will continue its aid to 140,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank, said Abdeljaber, who added the suspension decision was taken to save those who are at the highest risk of not being able to afford their food.

Unless funding is received, WFP will be forced to suspend food and cash assistance entirely by August, he said.

Chanting No to Hunger dozens of Palestinians staged a protest outside the WFP offices in Gaza City to protest the decision.

The voucher is life, the message they sent us equals death since there is no other source of income, said Faraj Al-Masri, a father of two, whose family gets vouchers worth $41.20 per month.

In Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, Jamalat El-Dabour, whose family receives $164.80 worth of vouchers per month, said they will starve to death as her husband was sick and unemployed.

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In a bid to honour Henry Dunant, the man behind founding both the Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), World Red Cross Day is marked annually on 8 May. A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Henry Dunant played a key role in leading the organisation. Notably, the Red Cross Society is a global humanitarian network that operates across the world and works toward providing assistance and support to those in need during emergencies, disasters, conflicts, and other crises. Furthermore, the Red Cross Movement also works to alleviate human suffering, protect human dignity and promote peace, health, and well-being.

World Red Cross Day 2023: Theme

The theme for World Red Cross Day 2023 states  Everything we do comes from the heart which aims to celebrate and honour all those who have stepped up to lend a helping hand to those in need.

World Red Cross Day: History

The history of World Red Cross Day dates back to the time when the Red Cross movement was established. Henry Dunant after witnessing the suffering of wounded soldiers during the Second Italian War of Independence was left shocked by the lack of medical care and support, following which he guided local civilians to provide assistance to the wounded.

He further wrote a book, calling for the establishment of similar volunteer groups to care for those who get wounded after wars. It was finally in 1863 that his efforts resulted in the creation of the International Committee for Relief to the Wounded, which later came to be known as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Years after its foundation, the idea of World Red Cross Day was proposed during the 1920s and it was officially established during the 20th International Conference of the Red Cross in Tokyo, Japan, in 1933. The conference also designated Henry Dunants birthday i.e., 8 May to be marked as World Red Cross Day.

World Red Cross Day: Significance

World Red Cross Day holds major significance as it works towards recognising the selfless efforts and sacrifices of the Red Cross and Red Crescent societies towards extending humanitarian aid and support to people affected by crisis situations. It also marks raising awareness about the organisations principles, mission, and activities and recognise the members dedication and courage.

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Beijing: Beijing on Monday announced that President Xi Jinping will host a two-day summit with the leaders of five Central Asian countries next week as China works to expand its influence in the area.

According to Chinas foreign ministry, leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are likely to attend the summit from 18 to 19 May.

Calling the summit in the city of Xian the first-of-its-kind, Chinese state media said the focus will be on strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with Beijing.

China, the worlds second-largest energy consumer, has invested billions of dollars to tap natural gas reserves in Central Asia.

Rail links connecting China to Europe criss-cross the region and are key to the success of Xis trillion-dollar global infrastructure project, the Belt and Road Initiative.

Beijing adheres to a policy of good-neighbourliness and friendship with regard to Central Asia, Foreign Minister Qin Gang said during a meeting with his regional counterparts in northwestern Xian last month.

All parties reiterated firm mutual support on issues concerning each others core interests, stern opposition to external interference in internal affairs, and resolute rejection of force creating chaos and turbulence in Central Asia, according to a Chinese foreign ministry report on the meeting.

The authoritarian republics of Central Asia were part of the Soviet Union and have been dominated by Moscow since the mid-19th century.

But Russias influence has been increasingly challenged since its invasion of Ukraine, with Beijing courting Moscows traditional allies in the region.

In 2022, Chinas exports to Central Asia grew 60 percent year-on-year to $1.4 billion, according to data released by the Chinese ministry of commerce last month.

In September last year, Xi travelled to Kazakhstan on his first trip abroad since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic.

Countries, including Kazakhstan, that border Chinas northwestern region of Xinjiang, have remained quiet over accusations of human rights violations by Beijing targeting Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities.

With inputs from agencies

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If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
As Im sure you know, working up a sweat is an important tool for keeping your mental and physical well-being in tip-top condition! The Ministry of Health recommends exercising for at least 21 minutes a day, so Sweat with Pride is challenging Kiwis to hit this target every day for the month of June while asking for sponsorship from friends and whanau. Youll be improving your own health, and the money you raise will help to improve the health and wellbeing of others in our community.
Buffett and Munger advocate for stronger US-China relations at 2023 Berkshire Hathaway meeting

(People's Daily App) 16:12, May 08, 2023

Renowned US investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger presided over the 2023 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, where they discussed ongoing US-China tensions. Munger emphasized the mutual benefits of increased free trade, labelling actions that exacerbate tensions as "stupid." Buffett asserted that the two nations must recognize their capacity for both competition and prosperity, without pushing each other too far.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Hearing July 15 on controversial after the fact permit

An application for a conditional use permit to establish and operate a cemetery for 30 years at the St. Barbara Monastery on the outskirts of Santa Paula at 15799 Ojai Road will be heard by the Ventura County Planning Commission on Thursday, July 15, at 8:30 a.m. at the county Government Center.

The applicant is the Foundation for the Support of the St. Barbara Monastery Cemetery and the application number is PL18-0116.

The Planning Commission meets in the Board of Supervisors meeting room in the Ventura County Government Centers Hall of Administration, 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura.

According to its website, stbarbaramonastery.org, the monastery is a womens monastic community of the Diocese of the West of the Orthodox Church in America.

The monastery was founded in 1992 and moved to its location in the unincorporated area on Ojai Road in 2005. It is a quarter mile past Thomas Aquinas College from Santa Paula.

In the monasterys April-May newsletter, it references a special day in the second week after Pascha, called The Day of rejoicing, when Orthodox Christians visit the graves of the departed and pray the paschal memorial service for them. The newsletter reads, in part, Here at St. Barbara Monastery, we will walk the short distance to the grave shared by two of our departed nuns, Mother Mariamne and Mother Julian, and then continue down to the infant cemetery in the woods near the creek.

The nuns who live on the property hold daily liturgical services and partly earn their living by growing and selling lavender and lavender products, making and selling caskets, giving retreats, and operating a small bookstore, according to the monastery website.

The CUP application is for an after-the-fact authorization of the burial of two adults and 26 infant remains, according to the county Planning Department.

New interments would be in a different location from the current interments. They are planned to be located 100 feet from the Federal Emergency Management Act floodplain, according to the application. The current interments would go through a flood-plain clearance process through the county Public Works Agency, according to Planning staff. It is estimated in the application that there would be about three burials a year.

A 1,450-square-foot chapel was built on the site through a Planned Development Permit.

Notice of the CUP application was placed in a newspaper legal ad and 23 postcards were sent to residents within 300 feet of the monasterys property 10 days in advance of the hearing, according to the Planning Department.
Tinubu Will Make Nigeria Better With Gods Help  RCCG Overseer, Pastor Adeboye

kacylee at 8-05-2023 08:49 PM (5 days ago) (f)

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu will fix Nigeria with God's help. Adeboye gave this assurance at the monthly thanksgiving service at the RCCG Headquarters in Ebute-Metta.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu will fix Nigeria with God's help. Adeboye gave this assurance at the monthly thanksgiving service at the RCCG Headquarters in Ebute-Metta.

Adeboye added that Nigeria would prosper under him.



The cleric asked Tinubu to realise Nigerians desire for a new country.



Adeboye said;



Let us pray for the incoming government that God will support it and give it the Grace to do the right thing.



Thank God the President-elect has promised to fix Nigeria. If God helps him, Nigeria will prosper in his hands.



May 29: Tinubu will fix Nigeria with Gods help  Pastor Adeboyehttps://t.co/iFghoKNGr5  Vanguard Newspapers (@vanguardngrnews) May 8, 2023 Adeboye added that Nigeria would prosper under him.The cleric asked Tinubu to realise Nigerians desire for a new country.Adeboye said;

Post Reply I have been reporting for several years now and I am very interested in visual news reportage with strong inclusion of photos and video multimedia. Posted: at 8-05-2023 08:49 PM (5 days ago) | Addicted Hero

gogoman at 8-05-2023 08:53 PM (5 days ago)

(m) so now una dey support him, sebi all of una yoruba pastors dey support peter obi Posted: at 8-05-2023 08:53 PM (5 days ago) | Grande Master so now una dey support him, sebi all of una yoruba pastors dey support peter obi Reply

SWORDMAN at 8-05-2023 09:54 PM (5 days ago)

(m) Just imagine this misplaced priority talking from both side of his mouth... when I say nigerian pastors are the highest scammers.. una go think say I too talk. Posted: at 8-05-2023 09:54 PM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac Just imagine this misplaced priority talking from both side of his mouth... when I say nigerian pastors are the highest scammers.. una go think say I too talk. Reply

KDoinspire at 8-05-2023 10:28 PM (5 days ago)

(m) Quote from: SWORDMAN on 8-05-2023 09:54 PM Just imagine this misplaced priority talking from both side of his mouth... when I say nigerian pastors are the highest scammers.. una go think say I too talk.

Very sad . I used to respect this man so much. I am a member of RCCG. It shows he is a two faced man. All of them should go and bury their heads in shame Posted: at 8-05-2023 10:28 PM (5 days ago) | Upcoming Very sad . I used to respect this man so much. I am a member of RCCG. It shows he is a two faced man. All of them should go and bury their heads in shame Reply

larry1970 at 8-05-2023 10:49 PM (5 days ago)

(m) kilode gan na why is everything upside down in 419 country Posted: at 8-05-2023 10:49 PM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac kilode gan na why is everything upside down in 419 country Reply

Jiiitk4 at 8-05-2023 10:51 PM (5 days ago)

(m) Quote from: gogoman on 8-05-2023 08:53 PM

so now una dey support him, sebi all of una yoruba pastors dey support peter obi

Support ke. Everyone is apprehensive. Looter number one given the key to CBN? We are finished. Posted: at 8-05-2023 10:51 PM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac Support ke. Everyone is apprehensive. Looter number one given the key to CBN? We are finished. Reply

larry1970 at 8-05-2023 10:52 PM (5 days ago)

(m) drug dealer and drug addict will make Nigeria better haba there are some statements not soppose to come out of an old man's mouth Posted: at 8-05-2023 10:52 PM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac drug dealer and drug addict will make Nigeria better haba there are some statements not soppose to come out of an old man's mouth Reply

Jiiitk4 at 8-05-2023 11:03 PM (5 days ago)

(m) Which God ? Yeye man of God. Posted: at 8-05-2023 11:03 PM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac Which God ? Yeye man of God. Reply

ficull at 9-05-2023 02:35 AM (5 days ago)

(m) Noted. Ill quote this to you in the nearest future. Posted: at 9-05-2023 02:35 AM (5 days ago) | Gistmaniac Noted. Ill quote this to you in the nearest future. Reply

FloJoJo at 9-05-2023 02:44 AM (5 days ago)

(f) Nigerians should stay away from this man church. He supported Buhari and said God will help him rule well but it was the reverse. Now he saying the same thing to thief Tinubu. Please, we should stop listening to these men of Dogs and channel our energy to remove all political criminals for better Nigeria. Oloriburuku ni baba yi o. Posted: at 9-05-2023 02:44 AM (5 days ago) | Upcoming Nigerians should stay away from this man church. He supported Buhari and said God will help him rule well but it was the reverse. Now he saying the same thing to thief Tinubu. Please, we should stop listening to these men of Dogs and channel our energy to remove all political criminals for better Nigeria. Oloriburuku ni baba yi o. Reply

Ojex004 at 9-05-2023 06:50 AM (5 days ago)

(m) We know, God guide and be with our president TINUBU.

God bless Nigeria, God bless yoruba Posted: at 9-05-2023 06:50 AM (5 days ago) | Upcoming We know, God guide and be with our president TINUBU.God bless Nigeria, God bless yoruba Reply
Report: Google to Launch Pixel Watch 2 Alongside Pixel 8 Later This Year News oi -Kabir Jain

According to a recent report from an industry source, it seems that Google is getting ready to release the second version of its smartwatch, the Pixel Watch 2, later this year, along with the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. This comes after Google released its inaugural smartwatch, the Pixel Watch, in October of last year.

Google Pixel Watch 2 Reportedly Coming Later This Year

Reportedly, 9To5Google has indicated that the launch of the Pixel Watch 2 is planned to coincide with the release of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. Based on Google's past pattern, it is likely that the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will be announced in October, which is when the tech giant has traditionally introduced its flagship products.

Google Pixel Watch 2: What Can We Expect?

Although no information has been revealed yet about the features or appearance of the Pixel Watch 2, it is expected that Google will enhance its performance by using a current-generation chip. The Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 platform, specifically designed for wearable devices, maybe the ideal chip to power the smartwatch, delivering excellent battery life due to its 4nm manufacturing process.

Qualcomm claims that the Snapdragon W5+ can provide low power consumption for extended battery life, high performance for a better user experience, and integration for more stylish and innovative designs. If these claims are true, we can anticipate a powerful and fashionable successor to the Pixel Watch this year.

Although Google has already taken a minimalist approach to the design of its smartwatch, any further improvements will be appreciated. While it has not been confirmed yet, it would be great to see the Pixel Watch 2 available in different sizes.

Google is set to hold its upcoming Google I/O event on May 10, where it is expected to introduce the Pixel 7a and Pixel Fold. Google may also give us some sneak peeks or additional information about other devices, such as the Pixel Watch 2. Hopefully, as we approach the alleged October release date, we will learn more about this highly anticipated smartwatch.

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Panasonic Launches New Smart TVs, Priced from Rs 19,990 News lekhaka -Subhrojit Mallick

Panasonic has officially launched its Panasonic Google TVs series in India. The lineup comprises displays in the sizes 32-inch, 43-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch display.

This launch comes shortly after the Japanese brand launched its flagship OLED televisions in India. The prices for this new range of TVs start at Rs 19,990. These will be available at Panasonic stores, e-commerce platforms and other retail stores.

Panasonic Launches TVs from 32 to 75-Inches: specifications and Price

The models launched by Panasonic include MX850 (55, 65), MX800 (55, 65), MX750 (55, 43), MX740 (75, 55, 43), MX710 (65, 55, 43), MX700 (55, 43), MS680 (32, 43), MS670 (32, 43), and MS550 (32, 43). A total of 20 TVs have been launched by the brand as part of this new series.

The prices vary greatly between models, starting from Rs 19,990 for the base model, the 32-inch MS550 variant, and then going up to Rs 3,19,990 for the most expensive one.

Additionally, the brand announced that it will be launching 3 more TVs in this Smart TV Lineup soon.

Panasonic Google TVs: Specifications

The new TVs aim to bring a new viewing experience for viewers, and have a bezel-less display design. It aims to provide an immersive experience, and thus has removed the frame around the display. The TVs sport a slim, elegant design.

The display for some features a 4K HDR screen resolution. This is available on the MX850, MX800, MX750, MX740, MX710, and MX700. The MS680, MS670, and MS550 come with FHD/HD resolutions, but come with Vivid Digital Processor and 2K HDR support.

All the new Panasonic Google TVs feature 20W speakers, which have been tuned by Dolby Audio technologies Audio Booster+. The new TVs run on Android TV OS, and have up to 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage. Additionally, they have built-in Chromecast, Google voice assistant, and Fast Cast. The Google PlayStore is available for users to download apps.

When it comes to connectivity, the new Google TVs feature HDMI ports with eARC support, HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. A bluetooth remote with a google-assistant key is provided with each TV.

Best Mobiles in India

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TruScreen Recognised in Authoritative China Blue Paper  Cervical Cancer Three Stage Standardised Prevent and Treat

Highlights

 Authoritative China Blue Paper recognises TruScreen in section Artificial Intelligence for Cervical Cancer Screening

 The publication highlights the benefits of TruScreen as a primary cervical cancer screening method

 Blue Paper concludes TruScreen has important role to play emphasising real time results, ease of training and operation and conclusive positive body of clinical evidence

 The Blue Paper references TruScreen having a better sensitivity and specificity than Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) and better specificity than an HPV test

 Acknowledgement expected to assist TruScreen distributors in accelerating sales

Truscreen Group Limited (NZX/ASX:TRU) is pleased to advise that it has been recognised in a China Blue Paper Cervical Cancer Three Stage Standardized Prevent and Treatment published on 28 April 2023. In China Blue Papers are promulgated to act as the definitive position on leading edge developments in all industries in China and are recognised as an endorsement by the leaders in the relevant field.

The publication presents a consensus on the most successful and innovative technologies and methods to eradicate cervical cancer in China, in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO) strategy. The paper was the result of four years of research and collaboration by many experts in gynaecology, including a number of leaders (1) in the field who attended the publication launch.

The Blue Paper specifically highlights TruScreen in a section titled Artificial Intelligence Technology For Cervical Cancer Screening, describing its origin, substantial clinical trials, and the benefits of using TruScreen as a standalone primary cervical cancer screening method, which has demonstrated superior sensitivity and specificity results, in comparison to screening of LBC and HPV.

The publication also recognises the TruScreen devices objective and real time results, ease of training and operation and conclusive positive body of clinical evidence from multi-centre clinical studies.

CEO, Dr Beata Edling commented, we are delighted that TruScreen has been endorsed in this prestigious publication published by eminent oncology and gynaecology institutions (2). TruScreen will continue to work with Beijing Siweixiangtai Tech Co Ltd (SWXT), our distributor in China to further accelerate their sales growth.

This announcement has been approved by the Board.

(1) the past Chairman of The Chinese Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Association (COGA ) Professor Lang Jinhe, the newly appointed COGA Chairman Professor Di Wen, Chinese Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (CSCCP) Chairwomen Professor Wei Lihui, the head of Women and Children's Health Division of National Health Commission Xu Xiaochao, Secretary General of China Preventive Healthcare Association Zhang Lingli.

(2) Chinese Association of Gynaecologists Oncologists (COGA), Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control Research Committee of China, Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Cancer Prevention and Control Professional Committee of China Preventive Healthcare Association, National Healthcare Industry Entity Management Association, and the Genital Health Division of China Population Culture Promotion Association.

TruScreen Recognised in Authoritative China Blue Paper

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Peace, unity high on FM's agenda in India

People's Daily Online

By ZHANG YUNBI (Chinadaily.com.cn) 08:34, May 06, 2023

The peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis, tranquillity on the border with India and the strategic autonomy of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states were among the central topics of State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang's meetings with counterparts from other SCO members.

Over the past two days in Goa, India, Qin attended the SCO Foreign Ministers' Meeting and held a number of bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the event.

His meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov took place on Thursday, around three weeks after their meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Speaking to his Russian colleague, Qin said Beijing would remain committed to facilitating peace talks and "is willing to maintain communication and coordination with Russia" to make a tangible contribution to the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

Lavrov said Moscow attaches great importance to the position paper issued by Beijing in February for a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

Russia endorses China's principled position and is willing to maintain close contacts with China in a candid manner, he added.

"The recent series of diplomatic moves taken by Beijing have shown that China is not a direct stakeholder in or an initiator of the Ukraine crisis, and it has been consistently playing a constructive role in easing the situation and resolving the crisis," said Sun Zhuangzhi, director of the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

It should be noted that currently the voices representing cool heads are getting louder, and all parties should take this opportunity create better conditions to enable a political settlement of the crisis, he added.

Regarding China-Russia coordination and contacts in the Asia-Pacific region, Beijing and Moscow agreed at the meeting to "reject 'a new Cold War' and to champion the region's peace and stability", said a news release by the Foreign Ministry.

On bilateral ties, Beijing and Moscow agreed to plan and arrange high-level exchanges as well as exchanges at various levels, step up economic and trade cooperation, deepen cultural exchanges and facilitate exchanges of visits.

Speaking to Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at a bilateral meeting on Thursday, Qin pointed out that the current situation on the China-India border is generally stable.

He said the two sides should continue to implement the important consensus reached between the leaders of the two countries, consolidate the achievements which have already been made, strictly abide by relevant agreements and protocols, promote further cooling and easing of the border situation, and maintain sustainable peace and tranquillity in the border areas.

As the world's top two most-populous developing countries, China and India are both at a critical period of modernization, Qin noted.

Both sides "should learn from history, grasp bilateral relations from a strategic height and in a long-term perspective", and "respect each other, learn from each other and enable each other's success", Qin said.

The Indian foreign minister said the two nations need to strengthen cooperation in many areas.

He said India looks to maintaining peace and stability in the border areas through further consultations with China.

When addressing the SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting on Friday, Qin warned against attempts to provoke a new Cold War, as well as efforts to engage in unilateralism, protectionism and power politics.

The SCO member states are expected to "stay true to strategic autonomy and reinforce unity and mutual trust", he said.

These countries should staunchly support each other in championing sovereignty, security and development interests, and reject interference by external forces in the region's affairs and attempts to promote "color revolutions", he said.

Also, the member states are expected to "resolutely boycott any moves sabotaging the international economic and trade order and market rules", and to "secure the stability and functioning of production and supply chains", he added.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping proposing the landmark Belt and Road Initiative, and China will host the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation this year.

Beijing sees the forum as an opportunity to work with various parties to make this road of opportunity and prosperity even broader over the next decade, Qin said.

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Israel/Palestine: Statement by the Spokesperson on the demolition of Jubbet Adh Dhib school

European External Action Service (EEAS)

07.05.2023

EEAS Press Team

The European Union condemns the demolition of the EU-funded school in Jubbet Adh Dhib in the occupied Palestinian territory carried out on Sunday morning by the Israeli Defence Forces. The EU has been following closely this case and has asked the Israeli authorities not to carry out the demolition which directly affects 81 children and their education.

The EU recalls that demolitions are illegal under international law, and children's right to education must be respected. The EU calls on Israel to halt all demolitions and evictions, which will only increase the suffering of the Palestinian population and risk enflaming tensions on the ground.

Last year saw a total of 954 structures demolished or seized by occupation authorities throughout the West Bank, including East Jerusalem - the highest number recorded since 2016. More than 80% of the demolished structures (781) were located in Area C. In total, 1,032 individuals have been displaced as a result of demolitions. This year is already following a similar worrying trend.

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China, Pakistan, Afghanistan support extension of CPEC project to Afghanistan, promote trilateral economic cooperation

Global Times

By Tao Mingyang Published: May 07, 2023 08:08 PM Updated: May 07, 2023 08:02 PM

Foreign ministers of China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan have agreed to enhance trilateral cooperation in economy, poverty reduction, and agriculture, and plan to extend the project of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan during the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Dialogue on Sunday.Foreign ministers of China, Afghanistan, and Pakistan have agreed to enhance trilateral cooperation in economy, poverty reduction, and agriculture, and plan to extend the project of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan during the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Dialogue on Sunday.

The three countries agreed to advance cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), promote connectivity among the three neighbors, and improve cross-border trading systems, with a view to enhancing trilateral economic integration and achieving sustainable development, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

The meeting came after a dialogue which Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari hailed CPEC as an example of the BRI at the 4th round of the Foreign Minister-level Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue held in Islamabad on Saturday.

Welcoming the completion of a decade of the CPEC in 2023, the two sides hailed CPEC as a shining good example of Belt and Road cooperation which has accelerated socio-economic development, job creation and improvement of people's livelihoods in Pakistan, according to the official website of the Foreign Ministry of China.

The two sides agreed to continue their humanitarian and economic assistance for the Afghan people and enhance development cooperation in Afghanistan, including through extension of the CPEC infrastructure project to Afghanistan.

The CPEC has boosted economic development in both China and Pakistan since it was proposed 10 years ago. Afghan officials are seeking to use the initiative to advance much needed infrastructure and economic development in the country, Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"One of the direct benefits brought by the CPEC to Afghanistan is cooperation linked to infrastructure construction and transport connectivity. In addition, China's advanced agriculture and poverty reduction experience could be shared with Afghanistan to fundamentally improve living standards there," Qian added.

As a landlocked country, Afghanistan mainly relies on Pakistani ports for international trade. However, due to government regulations, trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan mainly takes place via the ports of Karachi and Qasim, which poses some problems such as protracted time and higher cost.

Afghanistan has become the first among landlocked Central Asian countries to benefit from using the Chinese-invested Gwadar Port in Pakistan for future cross-border trade.

After several rounds of consultations with relevant authorities in Pakistan, Gwadar Port finally obtained an e-export trade license with Afghanistan in the second half of 2019, according to China's Ministry of Commerce.

In 2020, Afghanistan imported 43,000 tons of fertilizer via the port, contributing to its agricultural development.

However, Qian said that security concerns would be one of the outstanding challenges facing the CPEC project extension to Afghanistan, adding that companies from the three countries can look for other cooperation opportunities in advance in the region.

Qian noted that the current territorial dispute between Pakistan and Afghanistan is a barrier to regional cooperation, but the CPEC extension to Afghanistan may encourage regional communication and help resolve their dispute.

Qian noted that the current territorial dispute between Pakistan and Afghanistan is a barrier to regional cooperation, but the CPEC extension to Afghanistan may encourage regional communication and help resolve their dispute.

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China-Afghanistan-Pakistan meeting injects stability into the region

Global Times

By Chen Qingqing Published: May 07, 2023 11:10 PM

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang hailed the successful holding of the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Dialogue on Saturday, signaling the resumption of trilateral cooperation mechanisms and Chinese experts view it as of great significance to inject stability into the region and help increase mutual trust between Afghanistan and Pakistan, which have encountered border disputes over the past few years.

Since the Ukraine crisis, global security is facing more challenges, and for the three neighboring countries, it is highly necessary to jointly safeguard regional security, some experts said. The resumption of the trilateral mechanism shows that the three countries are willing to jointly tackle security challenges and normalize such mechanisms in tackling regional and hotspot issues.

After China proposed a position paper on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis and successfully brokered talks between Saudi Arabia and Iran talks to allow a resumption of diplomatic ties, China's role has been further affirmed and also highly expected in trilateral mechanisms. Afghanistan and Pakistan both show willingness to implement the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and Global Development Initiative on the basis of dialogue and negotiation to tackle security and development challenges, experts said.

The Chinese side promised to strengthen trilateral cooperation with Afghanistan and Pakistan on security and counter-terrorism, uphold the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, and firmly oppose any form of terrorism and "double standards" on fighting terrorism, Qin said when attending the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Dialogue in the Pakistani capital on Saturday with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan interim government Amir Khan Muttaqi.

China is willing to strengthen strategic communication and policy coordination with Afghanistan and Pakistan through the trilateral cooperation mechanism, so as to boost good-neighborliness and strategic mutual trust, Qin noted.

"Over the past few years, Pakistan and Afghanistan had severe conflicts and disputes over the borderlines, and the trilateral meeting itself was a rare opportunity to promote peace and talks," Zhu Yongbiao, director of the Center for Afghanistan Studies at Lanzhou University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Also, they have differences on the recognition of terrorism, especially under external interference when countries like the US and India hold double standards on the matter, so China released a signal that could be seen as a step forward in coordinating the stances of Pakistan and Afghanistan, Zhu said.

Besides the trilateral meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin also met Muttaqi and jointly held the fourth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Zardari on Saturday. A joint statement was released following the meeting between Qin and Zardari, emphasizing the firm support for each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and agreeing to deepen cooperation and advance the China Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Both Afghanistan and Pakistan are neighbors of China, sharing good political relations with China, and they are also aware of China's role in not only mediating between Saudi Arabia and Iran but also on the Ukraine crisis, so they both have expectations for China, Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"The trilateral meeting shows that the two countries are willing to work with China in tackling regional issues and enhancing communication and policy coordination, signaling their enhanced confidence in China's diplomatic role," Qian said, noting that such neighborly and mini-multilateral mechanisms could be normalized.

During the meeting, the three foreign ministers agreed to uphold good-neighborliness and friendship, deepen political mutual trust, respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and properly address differences and disputes through equal consultation.

They also made it clear to oppose interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs, illegal unilateral sanctions against Afghanistan, and all acts that undermine regional peace and stability.

In mid-April, China released an 11-point paper to fully elaborate its position on the Afghan issue and express firm support for the reconstruction of the war-torn country, which are seen as concrete measures to push further coordination on Afghan issues and together with regional countries, help with Afghanistan's reconstruction and revitalization.

"On the Afghan issue, China's stance should be viewed comprehensively, as it has been playing a constructive, inclusive and active role, including its expectation and hopes for the Afghan interim government," Zhu said.

Some India media outlets hyped that China was reiterating that "the Kashmir dispute was left over from history and should be properly and peacefully resolved in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements." Both sides oppose any unilateral actions that further complicate the already volatile situation.

India is most likely to issue a statement as it has on previous Pakistan-China joint statements, as it rejected references to the matter before, Indian news site The Wire said on Sunday.

"This statement on Kashmir is also China's consistent attitude toward the Kashmir issue in recent years. It encourages the two parties concerned in Kashmir issue to peacefully resolve differences and disputes between countries through dialogue and consultation, which is also one of the core concepts and essentials of China's GSI," Qian said.

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MFA statement in relation to the decision-making rules for matters related to the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) of the EU

Republic of Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

07.05.2023

In connection with proposals appearing in the political domain to introduce qualified majority voting (QMV) decision-making procedure in matters of the European Union's foreign and security policy, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs recalls and reaffirms the position on this issue presented recently in the Polish Parliament by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Zbigniew Rau: Poland's policy in the European Union aims to preserve the freedom of Member States in resolutely defending the principle of unanimity where the current legal situation guarantees it and to actually extend the consensus formula to where the legal situation permits the application of qualified majority rule.

Decision-making process in areas pertaining to the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) of the EU are taken in principle by unanimity. This principle and intergovernmental character of this policy ensure that the interests of all EU Members are guaranteed and that the voice of each country is taken into account, regardless its size or population.

They also ensure that any decision concerning the matters of war and peace belong to the sovereign rights of each Member State. In addition, the constructive abstention mechanism allows all EU members to adhere to national specificities without blocking a decision of the organisation.

The current QMV rules, which, for obvious reasons, favour the interests of the states with the upper hand in voting power, do not in any way guarantee that the EU's foreign and security policy objectives will be achieved more effectively or more quickly. In fact, the value of unanimity has already on more than one occasion saved Member States from making strategic mistakes with highly negative consequences for EU security.

The recent prominent example was the highly controversial, or as very up-to-date experience shows simply dangerous, decision to launch the Nord Stream 2. With the QMV in place not only would the pipeline be built and launched faster, but it would also not be provided with safety clauses, such as the compromise amendments to the gas directive endorsed in 2019.

The unanimity in decision-making process ensured that the EU's actions under the CSDP did not undermine cohesion of the entire Euro-Atlantic community by preventing:

duplication of the NATO's command structure by the CSDP politico-military structures;

adoption the CSDP priorities in contrary to the objectives of NATO's collective defence;

boosting investments which will not benefit the entire European defence industry.

More recent example of expected QMV deficiency were negotiations on oil price cap held last year. Thanks to the unanimity rule the EU members states endorsed a sensible price cap on seaborne Russian-origin crude oil, thus preventing Russia from profiting further of its war of aggression against Ukraine and at the same time supporting stability in global energy markets.

The unanimity also remains a critical decision-making mechanism in negotiations on the derogation of exports of potash-fertilizers from Belarus, which largely finance the Lukashenko regime.

Furthermore, there are plenty positive examples where unanimity has paved the way for lasting compromises:

the EU was able to take decision to deploy executive CSDP civilian mission EULEX Kosovo without resolving the question of recognizing the independence of Kosovo;

right after the outbreak of war in Ukraine, all EU members uncommonly fast generated political will to use the European Peace Facility for the provision of lethal and non-lethal equipment to Ukrainian Armed Forces;

in the last few months the EU was able to quickly establish three new important missions: the EUMAM Ukraine, the EUM Armenia and the EUPM Moldova. Thanks to the unanimity rule these missions do enjoy a strong legitimacy and are making significant contributions to the security and stability throughout Europe.

The above-mentioned examples show that - with a genuine political will - the unanimity can ensure a real balance between pursuing political interests and finding the right common denominator for actions.

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs takes note of the fact that some Member States are considering giving up their rights arising from unanimous decision-making in CFSP and/or CSDP matters.

In the event of some coordinated unilateral renunciations of these rights by these member states, or the adoption of moratoria on non-use of veto rights by them in EU decision-making processes which grant such rights, Poland will accept these decisions with respect and understanding. Nevertheless, Poland itself does not foresee the possibility of taking such a decision either now or in the future.

ukasz Jasina

MFA Press Spokesperson

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UN set to suspend food aid for Gaza, occupied West Bank

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 6:24 PM

The World Food Programme (WFP) of the United Nations says it will suspend food aid to a large number of impoverished Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank due to funding shortages.

Samer Abdeljaber, the WFP's senior official for Palestinian territories said on Sunday that the agency was set to suspend food aid to over 200,000 Palestinians from next month due to a "severe" shortage of funds.

"In light of the severe funding shortages, WFP is forced to make painful choices to stretch the limited resources," Abdeljaber said. "WFP would have to start suspending assistance to over 200,000 people, which is 60 percent of its current caseload, from June."

"WFP understands the implications of this unavoidable and hard decision on hundreds of thousands of people who also depend on food assistance for their most basic needs," stated Abdeljaber.

The UN agency will continue its aid to 140,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank, said Abdeljaber, who added the suspension decision was taken to save those who are at the highest risk of not being able to afford food.

Unless funding is received, WFP will be forced to suspend food and cash assistance entirely by August, he said.

Chanting "No to Hunger," dozens of Palestinians staged a protest outside the WFP offices in the besieged Gaza City to protest the decision.

The United Nations agency offers impoverished Palestinians both monthly vouchers with a value of $10.30 per person and food baskets. Both programs will be affected.

"The voucher is life, the message they sent us equals death since there is no other source of income," said Faraj Al-Masri, a father of two, whose family gets vouchers worth $41.20 per month.

In Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, Jamalat El-Dabour said they will "starve to death" as her husband was sick and unemployed.

The most impacted families are in Gaza, where food insecurity and poverty are the highest, and in the West Bank.

The Gaza Strip has been under an Israeli blockade since June 2007. The blockade has caused a decline in the standard of living as well as unprecedented levels of unemployment and unrelenting poverty.

Israel has launched several military offensives on the besieged territory since 2008, making the situation even worse.

The recent cuts were decided upon after a gradual reduction in donations over the past years.

The UN agencies in the past blamed the funding shortages on cuts by the United States and other countries in aid to Palestinians.

In 2018, the administration of president Donald Trump announced it was cutting all US funding for the main UN program for Palestinian refugees, affecting five million people who relied on its schools, healthcare, and social services.

UNRWA not only serves Palestinians in the occupied territories but also in Jordan, Syria and Lebanon. European and Arab countries have pledged to protect the agency and Germany promised a significant increase in financial backing.

The announcement had been anticipated both by senior officials at UNRWA and other Washington insiders, leading to warnings it may further destabilize the Middle East.

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Sudan unrest: Fighting continues in Khartoum as Sudanese mediators seek end to crisis

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 11:30 AM

Sudanese rival forces have continued fighting in Khartoum as mediators for Sudan's warring sides meet in Saudi Arabia, seeking an end to the violent skirmishes.

Fighting continued on Sunday between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) as representatives of the country's rivaling military leaders began talks to end the three-week-old conflict that has left hundreds of people dead and many more injured, plunging the African country into chaos and triggering an exodus.

Reports from Sudan said the sound of warplanes and explosions could be heard overnight as fighting went on in south Khartoum and across the Nile in the city of Khartoum North.

RSF forces, which are based in Khartoum's Republican Palace, launched an offensive on the command of the country's Air Force, which carries out frequent attacks on the RSF's positions.

The "RSF attempted to storm the command of the Air Defense Forces in Khartoum, but the Sudan Armed Forces repelled the attack, destroyed several enemy vehicles, and captured three combat vehicles," the Sudanese army said in a statement.

Also, Sudan's Air Force continued to launch airstrikes on RSF positions which the militia forces responded to with anti-aircraft guns, amid the rising plumes of smoke in the sky.

The clashes in Sudan continue despite a declared ceasefire, as truce talks are underway in Saudi Arabia.

The declared objective of the internationally-backed truce talks held in the Saudi Red Sea port city of Jeddah is to first secure the safe passage of civilians fleeing the country.

Confirming his representative's attendance, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, said he hoped the talks would achieve the intended goals of the negotiations.

"We remain hopeful that the discussions will achieve their intended goals," he said.

Meanwhile, Manahil Salah, a 28-year-old laboratory doctor on an evacuation flight from Port Sudan to the United Arab Emirates, said her family hid for three days in their home close to army headquarters in the capital before eventually traveling to the Red Sea Coast.

"Yes I am happy to survive," she said. "But I feel deep sadness because I left my mother and father behind in Sudan, and sad because all this pain is happening in my homeland."

Thousands of people are pushing to leave from Port Sudan on boats to Saudi Arabia, paying for expensive commercial flights through the country's only functioning airport, or using evacuation flights.

"We were lucky to travel to Abu Dhabi, but what's happening in Khartoum, where I spent my whole life, is painful," said 75-year-old Abdulkader, who also caught an evacuation flight to the UAE. "Leaving your life and your memories is something indescribable."

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by Abdul Raheem

Never attribute to malice what can be adequately explained by stupidity

Summary:





On 21 December 2022 the UGC informed Minister of Education in writing on the course of action to be taken for SEUSL in terms of powers vested upon the Minister by the Universities Act.





As of today, Rameez Aboobacker, a demonstrated plagiarist and a research fraud, continues to remain the chief executive officer and a professor at SEUSL, a national university run by the government of Sri Lanka at the expense of public funds.





A letter from UGC Chairman Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunga to the Ministry of Education officials has recently surfaced making note of the fact that the UGC had informed Minister of Education Hon. Dr. Susil Premajayantha on 21 December 2022 on the course of action to be taken with regard to the situation at SEUSL following their own attention to the matters related to academic and administrative affairs at SEUSL while it is headed by Rameez Aboobacker. Details on the academic and research fraudulences committed by Rameez Aboobacker were brought to light by several articles on various national news media including Sri Lanka Guardian, Daily Mirror, Lankadeepa and TamilMirror. An ultimate summary of the said course of action is widely understood to have been concisely phrased as a competent authority would be appointed for the Southeastern [sic] University soon in the minutes of a meeting held between the Federation of University Teachers Associations (FUTA) and the UGC held on 27 January 2023  a statement to have been made by the UGC Chairman Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunga, the top-most academic administrative official in the hierarchy of Sri Lankan higher education. As a side note, FUTA should be commended for taking such an uncompromising firm stand on matters of academic fraud in such simple cases of right vs wrong. For the layperson the above information from UGC means that the topmost academics of the Sri Lankan higher education establishment have already decided that Rameez Aboobacker is not fit for the job while there is need for further investigation into what appears to be just the tip of an iceberg for an academic scam at scale  more on that in future expositions.





What remains then?





As is indicated in the letter by the UGC Chairman, the power to remove the vice chancellor of a state university lies in the hands of the minister at the least, as per the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978. In other words, the UGC cannot directly execute the removal of a Vice Chancellor from position. The execution of the recommendation by UGC has to be performed by an elected Peoples representative or any other Parliamentarian serving as the Minister of Education, or the Minister of Higher Education, if officially vested with power.





The South Eastern University of Sri Lanka is a public university in Oluvil in Sri Lanka. Established in 1995 as a university college, it became a full-fledged university in 1996. However, the reputation of this higher education institute is systematically decaying due to various reasons [ Photo: South Eastern University of Sri Lanka]





In this account, we point out to the mere fact that despite the written information provided to the Minister of Education, no action has been seen on the matter of Rameez Aboobacker. What lacks? Or better put, what works to safeguard outright corrupt individuals like Rameez Aboobacker while the Sri Lankan academia has decided to no longer leave him with credentials and power that he is no more fit to be entrusted with? We ask this question because the resolution for the matter is well established among the academic community and that the ball is now in the courts of those who deal with ordinary national politics  perhaps we have too many wildly behaving variables at action now than when the matter was under academic and administrative investigation/ scrutiny by the UGC.





The Ministry of Education, has all the authoritative rights to take the necessary actions against Rameez Aboobacker, the current vice chancellor of SEUSL. But the delay shown by The Ministry of Education raises several questions. The biggest one is whether the autonomy of the Sri Lankan Education System is practically superseded by the political willpower. If that is the fact, which is in direct contradiction to the status quo of all places advanced and developed among all of the democratic nations in the world, then it would be an alarming sign for systematic impedance to the maintenance of the quality of the education provided in this country. The influence of politics and politicians in determining the fate of a higher education institution, practically neglecting and eventually contradicting the national expert decisions and even tolerating obvious cases of globally-unacceptable absolute academic wrongdoing, can demolish the opportunity for a higher education of quality that future generations of this beautiful nation can continue to take pride in. The situation worsens even further at a time when the country has come under the watch of many international bodies including IMF  especially when we as a nation demonstrate that we are not even capable of properly handling academic corruption at a state-run university sitting at some periphery of our national higher education system. This issue has the potential to get itself evolve into a national crisis that can have a much greater impact on the course of economic recovery and overall development anticipated by both the government and IMF, at least for the sake of argument.





Literally, Rameez Aboobacker has been identified ineligible to serve as the chief academic and administrative officer at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka since 21st December 2022. But Rameez Aboobacker is still holding the position of Vice Chancellor of SEUSL to date and this is bringing to light an obvious dilemma whether the UGC has its autonomy and power in deciding the quality of higher education in this country; or is it the political system that has the ultimate power, making UGC a mere instrument thats used as an excuse for bureaucratic time delays, in matters as serious as this? This imbalance in power can be witnessed at the moment through whats happening in the case of Rameez Aboobacker. A public-funded institution is still being run by a fraud  a failed vice chancellor, whilst UGC has identified serious impact on the academic and administrative affairs at this institute. Another rational question is whether those in power within the government are purposefully destroying the fate of this university. But it should be emphasized that there are more than 6000 students from all parts of the Island and this is a national university  no profiling, be it region-based, ethnic or otherwise, is practically valid considering the actual student demography that is currently benefitting at this university. The government is demolishing the future of these students by maintaining such an undecipherable silence in this issue. His Excellency the President Ranil Wickremesinghe made some strong remarks about SEUSL in his speech a few months back and it is surprising to see his lack of interest in maintaining the quality of this Higher Educational Institute by practically exercising his powers to do whats right in this crisis of absolute right vs absolute wrong.





Rameez Aboobacker is preparing to hold the Annual General Convocation of this institute in the near future. While UGC considers him ineligible to hold the position of Vice Chancellor, it only makes sense to question whether he will be seen academically and morally eligible to confer degrees to graduates at this moment. He is an academic fraud and conferring degrees under his chairmanship will perhaps be an unpreceded joke in this country since the dawn of Sri Lankan university education system. An ineligible, shameless Vice Chancellor is chairing a convocation to grace the occasion of some of the most precious moments in the life of a graduate  a shame and a humiliating situation brought upon the Sri Lankan higher education system by the political leadership within the Ministry.





In a parliamentary note on 04th April 2023, Hon. Susil Premajayantha stated that the Minister has no power in removing a vice chancellor as he is not the appointing authority. He made this statement in the context of the ongoing conflict regarding the Vice Chancellor of the Ruhuna University. But there is precedence in this country where the Ministers of Higher Education have removed vice chancellors and appointed Competent Authorities. UGCs letter (Dated 16th March 2023) states that it has informed the Hon. Minister of Education through a letter dated 21.12.2022 regarding the course of action which could be taken in terms of the powers vested in him under the provisions of the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978. The Minister and the Ministry of Education have not acted for more than 04 months since the recommendations were given by the UGC. It is then apparent that it is the political power that decides the nature of the Education in this country and not the top-most academic hierarchy such as UGC nor the academic unions such as FUTA. This is a clear case for an education system thats gone corrupt by means of political power, either by exercising of it or by exercising negligence with authority. Rameez Aboobacker is a practical demonstration for the fact that one may easily become a vice chancellor and a professor (19 of 23 sociology journal articles within almost a year, all except for 3 articles in journals of questionable quality and a sociological recommendation for free medicine for elderly people in Sri Lanka in the year 2015) in this system with fake and fraudulent academic track records. A shame for the whole academic community! If this was a case in other countries, the Vice Chancellors who were found guilty would have resigned themselves or would be removed from their positions by the relevant authorities and their whole academic careers would be in trouble. On the contrary today in Sri Lanka, where we proudly boast about our free education system and the higher literacy rate, we are gradually losing the grip of the integrity and quality of our education system by politically letting fraudulent academics like Rameez Aboobacker go scot-free.





Currently the Minister of Education Hon. Dr. Susil Premajayantha, having not brought into action what was recommended by UGC in December 2022, has handed over all the Duties, Institutes and Power related to higher education to Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavan (the State Minister of Higher Education) through a gazette notification on 27th April 2023. Currently the State Minister of Higher Education has the power to execute the Universities Act 16 of 1978. Hon. Minister Dr. Suren Raghavan must certainly be well aware of the seriousness of these absolute academic issues and we believe that he wont tolerate the academic fraudulences and wrongdoings committed by Rameez Aboobacker and what appears to be a larger ring of academic underworld at SEUSL, of which Rameez Aboobacker just seems to be a prominent and popular figure. These are natural expectations and hopes one normally has on an academic with reputed scholarly track record turned politician. Quite interestingly, Rameez Aboobacker has also been found guilty of plagiarizing content from Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavans article (published in 2013; http://www.jocbs.org/index.php/jocbs/article/view/45 ) and has published a full paper at SEUSL in 2014 while he was a PhD student at the National University of Singapore. This fraudulent article by Rameez Aboobacker was titled The wave of Sinhala Buddhist Supremacism and Muslims of Sri Lanka and it can be found in the proceedings of the 4th International Symposium of SEUSL in 2014, from page number 166 to 171. This paper is reportedly made up with nearly 80% of content stolen from the paper published by Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavan, the current Minister of Higher Education. What more the Minister needs to better understand this serial plagiarist! The details on this case of plagiarism by Rameez Aboobacker can be discussed in a separate article. The various cases of plagiarism and research fraudulence committed by Rameez Aboobacker and his associates can be made as reference materials for future researchers and academics; and Rameez Aboobacker, without doubt, can be considered the most prominent national case study example to quote when training the future academics and researchers on how not be a researcher. Not a single university Vice Chancellor, at present or in the past, in this country has been identified with this level of academic fraudulences and emergence of Rameez Aboobacker is a shame to the Higher Educational System in this country; the fall can only be our pride  and its not too late except for the fact that the SEUSL students who entered the university by the time Rameez Aboobacker took over, have already spent nearly half of their undergraduate life in an academic training under the leadership of an academically corrupt leadership. When the Rameez Aboobacker phenomenon was confined within the academic territory of SEUSL Arts and Humanities, it was one thing; spill over is much more likely and is even reportedly witnessed once the fraud is in power  more on this in a much more detailed coverage of systematic academic fraudulences at SEUSL later. It is surprising to see how the Vice Chancellors from other reputed universities of Sri Lanka allow someone like Rameez Aboobacker to sit next to them in an equal position at various occasions jointly making serious decisions that have impact on the whole of Sri Lankan academia, while being fully aware that Rameez Aboobacker is a demonstrated academic fraud and possibly even knowing that Rameez Aboobacker has been recommended by UGC to be ousted!





The powers from the Universities Act now lie in the hands of Hon. State Minister Dr. Raghavan and it is widely believed that Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavan will act promptly to implement the recommendations made by UGC in 21st December 2022 to the Minister of Education Hon. Susil Premajayantha.





Finally, some food for thought for our regular readership:





If a research fraud can be a professor and a university vice chancellor in this country and then imagine the quality of Education provided at this institute under such leadership! No wonder SEUSL couldnt recover from being the last preference of significant proportions of newcomer students from many streams.

There must be individuals, politicians, authorities, power brokers, corrupt academics and various other influencing characters helping Rameez Aboobacker to hold on to the position of Vice Chancellor to date. These individuals, if any, certainly are a curse to the whole nation due to the fact they directly or indirectly contribute to the demolition of this institute and the future of generations of what could otherwise become invaluable human capital for this economically suffering nation!

When UGC has already recommended to remove Rameez Aboobacker from his position after he has been demonstrated to be a plagiarist and a research fraud, is he still academically and morally (legality aside) eligible to serve as a Vice Chancellor and would the decisions made by him be respected by an academic community after the fact of 21 December 2022 UGC decisions is brought to light?

A Vice Chancellor identified as incompetent in terms of academic integrity and administration and recommended to be ousted by UGC chairs a convocation at SEUSL!

Is there an autonomy for the UGC in this country or can the Politicians simply overrule or neglect the decisions made by the topmost officials of higher education hierarchy even in such black and white matters of absolute academic fraudulence?

Why Rameez Aboobacker is still kept in the position of vice chancellor despite the fact there is a severe impact on the academic and administrative activities at SEUSL?

Does the Academic Community at SEUSL consider the seriousness of this issue and have they acted promptly in this matter?

A Research fraud without any academic integrity is chairing the academic and administrative meetings, conferences and all the evets at SEUSL. But the majority of the SEUSL academic community is keeping quiet in the cases of research fraudulency and academic integrity. Does this allow and accept the wrongdoings of Rameez Aboobacker?

The Universities Act 16 of 1978 gives power to the Minister to exercise all or any of the following matters (a-c) relating to such Higher Educational Institution and what are the recommendations made by the UGC in addition to appointing a Competent Authority at SEUSL among the course of actions a-c?

The closure of such Higher Educational Institution;

The appointment of any person by the name or by office, to be a competent authority for the purpose of exercising, performing or discharging, in lieu of any officer, Authority or other body of such Higher Educational Institution, any power, duty or function under this Act or any appropriate instrument, and

Any other matter connected with or relating to any of the matters aforesaid.





References:





a. Parliamentary speech by Hon. Dr. Susil Premajayantha, Minister of Education (link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebH_bHt-aBA from 11:42 to 11:56)





b. Gazette notification transferring powers to Hon. Dr. Suren Raghavan (link: http://documents.gov.lk/files/egz/2023/4/2329-44_E.pdf)





c. Speech by H.E. the President Ranil Wickramasinghe (link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlbiRnnv08E from 10:13 to 11:17)





Abdul Raheem is an investigative researcher based in Colombo
Kyrgyz President Arrives In Russia For Putin Meeting, Possible Solo Seat At WWII Events

By RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service, RFE/RL's Tajik Service May 07, 2023

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has arrived in Moscow for bilateral meetings with President Vladimir Putin and to attend a victory parade in the Russian capital to mark the end of World War II, likely making him the only foreign head of state to be at the May 9 events.

Japarov's press service announced the official visit and arrival on the presidential website, saying the Kyrgyz leader was met at Vnukovo Airport by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin.

Attendance by foreign officials at commemorations of what Russia calls the Great Patriotic War has waned since Moscow's illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014.

All five Central Asian republics were part of the Soviet Union at the time of World War II but declared independence along with nine other countries as the Russian-led, nominal union collapsed in 1991.

Putin has called the dissolution of the Soviet Union the "greatest geopolitical tragedy" of the last century, and his efforts during two decades of increasingly authoritarian leadership, including the invasion of Ukraine, have evoked comparisons with the former Russian and Soviet empires.

In 2021, longtime Tajik President Emomali Rahmon was the only head of state to attend the Victory Day parade.

Last year, a little over two months after Russia's unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, no foreign leaders came to the WWII celebrations in Moscow.

Putin once again invited Rahmon to this year's commemoration events, according to the Tajik side.

Rahmon's office did not say whether he had accepted the invitation.

Japarov's office said the Kyrgyz head of state would be a "guest of honor" at the victory parade.

It also said Japarov would hold a bilateral meeting with Putin to discuss "current issues on the bilateral and multilateral agenda, as well as the future of further development of mutually beneficial cooperation."

Kyrgyzstan experienced a so-called Tulip Revolution in 2005 amid street protests demanding political reforms that made it a beacon of fledgling democracy in a region more routinely stocked with postcommunist authoritarians.

Putin dismissed pro-democracy events there and in other post-Soviet republics including Georgia and Ukraine as "color revolutions" fomented by Western meddling.

Kyrgyzstan is part of the Moscow-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), a military alliance in Eurasia that also includes Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan.

But Japarov was a surprise no-show at a gathering last year of the Russia-led Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in St. Petersburg on Putin's 70th birthday.

Kyrgyzstan then abruptly canceled CSTO training drills in a move that hawkish Russian lawmaker Konstantin Zatulin suggested was a reflection of Bishkek indulging in a "game" and wishing "not to fall under any spread of Western sanctions."

Kyrgyzstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, a trading bloc dominated by Russia that also includes Belarus, Armenia, and Kazakhstan.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyz-president-russia- visit-japarov-putin-victory-day/32400550.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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Switzerland to Decide on Resale of 25 Decommissioned Leopard Tanks in Near Future

Sputnik News

20230507

ZURICH, Switzerland (Sputnik) - The Swiss government is planning to work out a stance on a possible resale of 25 decommissioned Leopard tanks to a German manufacturer in the near future, Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis said on Sunday.

In March, Germany sent a request to Switzerland for the purchase of Leopard 2 tanks. However, the Swiss legislation allows the sale of only decommissioned tanks and any sales deal is subject to parliamentary approval. Later in March, the Commission on Security Policy of the Swiss National Council approved the decommissioning of 25 Leopard 87 tanks, which made their sale to a German manufacturer possible.

"The parliament will certainly make an important decision here. The Federal Council has not yet taken any stance. It will consider this issue in the near future," Cassis told a Swiss newspaper.

The foreign minister also said that the government was closely monitoring the parliamentary discussions on the resale of 96 Leopard 2 tanks to Germany, although it had not held discussions on this initiative itself.

 Sputnik

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U.S. Navy Hosts Oman's Naval Commander at Headquarters in Bahrain

US Navy

07 May 2023

From Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Mark Mahmod, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) welcomed Oman's top naval commander to the U.S. Navy base in Bahrain, May 7, coinciding with the start of an Oman-led maritime exercise in the Gulf of Oman.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of NAVCENT, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, hosted Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman Rear Adm. Saif bin Nasser bin Mohsin Al Rahbi and other senior Omani officials for discussions on strengthening regional maritime security cooperation.

"Oman is an important regional maritime partner and it was a pleasure hosting discussions on our shared vision for advancing cooperation among our forces at sea," said Cooper. "We look forward to strengthening our collaboration in the days ahead."

The visit to Bahrain fell on the first day of an annual Oman-led naval exercise called Khunjar Hadd, in and off the coast of Oman. This year, mine countermeasures ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13), personnel from a U.S. 5th Fleet expeditionary mine countermeasures unit and a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft are slated to participate.

In addition to the Oman and the United States, the weeklong exercise will include forces from France, Japan and the United Kingdom. Training will focus on mine countermeasures, explosive ordnance disposal, maritime interdiction and other combined naval operations

While at the U.S. Navy base in Bahrain, senior Omani officials met with leaders from U.S. 5th Fleet, Combined Maritimes Forces and the International Maritime Security Construct. They also received briefings and toured facilities showcasing unmanned systems the U.S. Navy has integrated into regional maritime operations.

U.S. 5th Fleet's area of operations encompasses approximately 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes 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 Strait of Bab al Mandeb.

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State, Local Agencies in US Prepare for End of COVID-19 Emergency

By Matt Haines May 07, 2023

"Being in hospitals during the early days of COVID-19 was terrifying, like I was going to war. But as far as I'm concerned, those days are done," Danielle King, a nurse working in Luling, Louisiana, told VOA.

"I think it's pretty obvious that the pandemic was over a year ago," she added. "The government's lagging behind that reality, so maybe they'll finally catch up."

The U.S. government will take a big step in that direction Thursday as Washington officially declares an end to the coronavirus pandemic by allowing the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) to expire.

The emergency was first instituted more than three years ago to provide funding and resources that would keep Americans safe during the then-growing global pandemic.

While many health care officials agree the time is right to end the national emergency and let state and local governments allocate resources to the COVID-19 response, some worry the move will harm Americans a particularly the impoverished a who will be less likely to afford vaccinations and risk being dropped from government programs such as Medicaid.

"It's regrettable, but we have no certainty on what impact the PHE's end will have on the public," said Amy Pisani, CEO of Vaccinate Your Family, a national nonprofit organization.

"Public health advocates haven't had a seat at the table to discuss how the end of the PHE declaration will look," she said. "We know, for example, that COVID-19 vaccinations have been essential in keeping us safe, but how will uninsured adults access and afford the vaccines when the PHE is done? How long will free vaccines be available? Will it vary from region to region? We have no idea. All we know is it's going to affect a lot of people."

'No longer a threat'

The PHE was first declared in January 2020 by former Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar.

Since entering office in 2021, President Joe Biden has repeatedly extended the emergency. Many public health officials, including Dr. Jeffrey Elder, associate chief medical officer for emergency management at LCMC Health in New Orleans, Louisiana, believe the emergency allowed the government to take sweeping steps to support the country's economic, health and welfare systems throughout the crisis.

"The PHE supported and funded nationwide coronavirus testing, the research and distribution of vaccinations and treatments, telehealth services, disaster responses, hospital-at-home services, nurse aide training for nursing homes and so much more," Elder told VOA.

"And it gave our patients the comfort of knowing they couldn't be kicked off their Medicaid insurance coverage during the emergency," he added. "It was invaluable."

Most public health officials, however, acknowledge the coronavirus no longer presents the crisis it once did, and the PHE may no longer be necessary.

"While we continue to see illness and deaths from COVID-19, it is no longer the threat it once was, thanks to testing, vaccines and treatment," said Dr. Susan Kansagra, director of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health.

She believes COVID-19 will soon be treated as routinely as other respiratory illnesses the country regularly faces.

Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, said this is a good thing.

"To call this an emergency is to elevate it above other viruses that are causing basically the same number of hospitalizations and deaths," he said.

"I think there's a danger to that, and I see that danger with some of my friends," Offit said. "When their 8-year-old is sick they say, 'Oh, I hope it's not COVID,' and then they test them. If they test negative, they just send them to school or to their grandparents or wherever they are going, as if it's OK to pass on whatever disease they do have. Maybe putting coronavirus on the level of these other diseases will encourage us to take their spread all a little more seriously, as well."

'Wide-ranging chaos'

Coronavirus cases and deaths continue to drop, but thousands of Americans are still affected by the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,773 people died of COVID-19 during the week ending April 5.

Some fear that with so many people still being impacted, suddenly ending the declaration could create a new set of problems.

"An abrupt end to the emergency declarations would create wide-ranging chaos and uncertainty throughout the health care system a for states, for hospitals and doctors' offices, and most importantly, for tens of millions of Americans," the Office of Management and Budget wrote in a Statement of Administration Policy earlier this year.

Dr. Joe McLaughlin, Alaska state epidemiologist, believes ending the PHE can reduce government spending and help the country return to a more traditional health care model. But he warns of downsides.

"We're going to see fewer health care provider flexibilities, a reduction in access to over-the-counter tests and a decrease in some social safety net benefits. This is definitely going to affect people," he said.

Of particular concern to health care providers is that states will no longer be forbidden from dropping enrollees from Medicaid, a federal health care program for the poor and disadvantaged, as they were during the PHE. In the months following the emergency's conclusion, the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that between 5.3 million and 14.2 million of America's most vulnerable will lose their Medicaid coverage.

Additionally, it is expected that COVID-19 tests and vaccinations will no longer be offered free of charge. Once the government stops buying vaccines, the cost is expected to skyrocket. Pfizer announced it could charge as much as $130 per dose.

Challenge and opportunity

"I think it's the right time to end it," New Orleans nurse Brandon Legnion said of the PHE.

"I don't think I've seen or heard of a single COVID-positive admission at our hospital in the last six months," he told VOA. "The demand for PPE [personal protective equipment] and vaccines are way down, so maybe it's time to treat coronavirus patients with the same well-researched protocols we use for other airborne transmitted diseases like tuberculosis or varicella [chickenpox]."

Ending the PHE will restructure the federal government's COVID-19 response as an endemic, rather than a pandemic, managed through government agencies' normal authorities. In addition to tapering coronavirus relief funds, the development of vaccines and treatments will be shifted away from federal government control.

State health department officials say the transition will be a challenge, but they are ready.

"We've been preparing for the possibility of the end of the federal public health emergency for some time now, and we released our state's plan in a roadmap last year," said AnneMarie Harper, communications director at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

"It's a sustainable, continued response to COVID-19 that features partnerships between public and private entities that ensure all Coloradans are being taken care of, including those without insurance," she said.

In Maryland, similar work has been done to prepare for what has become a critical transition in the country's health care system.

Chase Cook, acting director of communications at the Maryland Department of Health, said ending the PHE makes sense because it aligns with a decrease in COVID-19 hospitalization and severity, as well as an increasing integration of coronavirus-related services into existing public health infrastructure.

"The end of the public health emergency can be seen as a challenge," Cook told VOA, "but it's also an opportunity ... to continue responding to the effects of the pandemic on public health, to strengthen relationships within the health care system, to maintain public-private partnerships, to grow the public health workforce, and to build on renewed efforts to decrease health disparities in Maryland. It's an opportunity, and we're ready."

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At least 54 killed in ethnic clashes in northeast India

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 7:31 AM

At least 54 people have been killed in clashes between rival ethnic groups in India's remote northeastern state of Manipur, even after the authorities deployed thousands of army troops to restore order.

The violence erupted on Wednesday between the largest single ethnic group in the state, the Meitei, and the Kuki group, after a protest march turned violent following a dispute over who gets the tribal status, which grants extra privileges to the communities.

The rally was organized by the All Tribal Students Union Manipur, and according to news sources, the fighting started after many chaotic external elements entered the crowd with weapons, and with the intention of inciting clashes.

According to authorities, more than 500 houses were torched along with attacks over churches, temples, and vehicles, as the situation remained volatile on Saturday.

Among the most affected areas of Manipur were Churachandpur, Bishnupur, and Ponpi.

The Indian army in the neighboring state of Nagaland said 13,000 people had sought shelter from the violence.

To contain the violence and maintain order, authorities have deployed thousands of troops in the area and have imposed section 144, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area, an internet blackout, and a shoot-at-sight order in "extreme cases".

"We have asked army to stage flag marches in violence-hit areas and instructed the forces to take stringent action against anyone involved in violence," Manipur director general of police, P. Doungel told journalists.

The chief minister of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled government in Manipur, N. Biren Singh, is also from the Meitei community, due to which the atmosphere in Manipur has become tense, The Wire reported.

The army says it is bringing the situation under control, but the Hindu-nationalist BJP-led government in the state has been accused of not doing enough to prevent the violence.

The Indian opposition leader, Shashi Tharoor, hailing from the Congress party, blasted the BJP of Manipur for not handling the situation properly and urged to impose 'President's rule' in the violence-hit northeast Indian state.

"As the Manipur violence persists, all right-thinking Indians must ask themselves what happened to the much-vaunted good governance we had been promised. The voters of Manipur are feeling grossly betrayed just a year after putting the BJP in power in their state. It's time for President's Rule; the state Govt is just not up to the job they were elected to do," Tharoor wrote on Twitter.

The members of the indigenous Meitei community, who account for at least 50 percent of the state's population, have been demanding a Scheduled Tribe (ST) status under the Indian reservation system for years, which would give them access to forest lands along with other reservations at government institutions.

On 19 April, the Manipur high court asked the state government to consider giving tribal status to the Meitei community, after which disapproval arose among the existing tribal communities, including the Kuki community, as they were worried that they may lose control over their ancestral forest land.

The Indian reservation system reserves jobs, college admissions, and elected seats at all levels of government for communities under this category.

This system is an effort to correct historical mistakes that had denied equal opportunities to these communities.

North-East India is mostly known as one of the most culturally diverse regions of the world, as the region is inhabited by more than 200 indigenous tribal communities.

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Iran planning to develop Aravandkenar oilfield

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

May 7, 2023

Ahvaz, IRNA -- Technical planning for development of Iran's Arvandkenar oilfield near the border with Iraq has kicked off, an Iranian official has said.

Abdollah Azaari Ahvazi, CEO of the Arvandan Oil and Gas Company, told IRNA on Sunday that the company will develop the Arvandkenar oilfield, which is located at the southern end of the West Karoun region,

Azaari Ahvazi said that a tender for drilling a new well and repairing an existing well in the oilfield is underway under an Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) contract, adding that 11 domestic firms have declared their readiness to become involved in the project.

According to the official, the average daily production in the South Azadegan oilfield, which is located in the same petroleum region and is connected to an oilfield in neighboring Iraq, has increased by 10,000 barrels per day (bpd), adding that another 10,000 barrels will be added to the production capacity of the oilfield by the end of September.

He said that current production capacity from oilfields in the West Karoun Region is more than 400,000 bpd.

Arvandan Oil and Gas Company is considered the second-largest producer in the country following the National Iranian South Oil Company.

4208**4261

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Iran slams West's stance on execution of 2018 Ahvaz mass terrorist attack mastermind

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 5:06 PM

Tehran has condemned the interventionist position of certain European states on the execution of the ringleader of a separatist group responsible for a series of terrorist operations in Iran, saying such an approach will promote terrorism all over the world.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani issued the condemnation in a statement on Sunday, a day after some European countries, including Sweden, denounced the execution of Habib Farajollah Chaab, also known as Habib Asyud, the Swedish-backed mastermind of the 2018 Ahvaz terrorist attack that killed 25 Iranians.

"It is regrettable that some European countries, instead of confronting the terrorists who target the lives of innocent people are openly proud of their crimes, support them in an unjustifiable manner which is contrary to the basic principles aaof human rights," he said.

Kan'ani further noted that Chaab, the ringleader of the Harkat al-Nazal terror outfit, had a long list of carrying out incidents of violence, terrorism, and killings of innocent men, women and children.

He also clarified that such support by the West for terrorists will not only prevent the execution of justice but will actually "encourage" and "promote" the sinister phenomenon of terrorism all over the world.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman stressed that the Islamic Republic is determined to confront terrorism and uphold justice, adding that it will not compromise on the rights of Iranians and their security.

The official further said, "If the Europeans do not have a serious will to distance themselves from terrorism and its various forms, at least they should not intensify the suffering of the victims' families with their support for terrorists."

Chaab pleaded guilty and confessed last year to masterminding the 2018 atrocity as well as many other acts of terror targeting the Iranian nation.

He had admitted to being naturalized by Sweden and backed by the Scandinavian country's government, saying he had been provided with a device that would alert Swedish security officials to rescue him whenever he was in danger.

The Swedish-backed terrorist was arrested in November 2020 on the back of a set of "specialized and combined measures" by Iranian intelligence forces.

The Harkat al-Nazal terror outfit has been pushing to separate the southwestern province of Khuzestan a home to the country's most Arab population a from the rest of Iran by engaging in an armed conflict against the Iranian government.

In September 2018, it claimed responsibility for an attack on a military parade in Ahvaz, Khuzestan's provincial capital, which killed 25 people, including members of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) and civilian bystanders, and injured more than 270 others.

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Myanmar junta targets health, education facilities to undermine shadow government

The military is unapologetic about using air power against National Unity Government clinics, schools and offices.

A commentary by Zachary Abuza 2023.05.07 -- In the past six months, in addition to their increased targeting of civilians as part of its "four-cuts" strategy-denying the opposition access to food, finances, intelligence and recruits-the Myanmar military has made a concerted effort to target the shadow National Unity Government's nascent civil administration and the provision of health and education.

The April 11 air strike on a gathering for the opening of a NUG government office in Sagaing's Pa Zi Gyi village, which coincided with the distribution of food for the Lunar New Year's celebration, led to the death of at least 186 people.

A single plane dropped two 500-pound (227-kilogram). bombs, followed by attacks by helicopter gunships. Almost all the casualties were civilians or civil administrators, and included 40 children; the youngest was six months old.

While most of the shadow government's limited fundraising is going towards its military efforts, it's providing basic social services in some liberated zones. Of the 330 townships in the country, 23 have a NUG prosecutor's office and 118 judges have been appointed to date.

The shadow government claims to have established 154 "Pakafwe" township governments and to be providing some degree of education in 95 townships, and limited health services in 198.

The National Unity Government has long had popular legitimacy, evidenced in the daily flash mobs, acts of civil disobedience, or nationwide stay at home strikes, as seen during the anniversary of the coup or the Lunar New Year. The NUG has bolstered its legitimacy through the battlefield courage and tenacity of their People's Defense Forces (PDFs).

But increasingly, the NUG will have to base their legitimacy on performance and the provision of social services. This is all the more important as the military's government's effective control is diminishing.

And for that reason the military has stepped up their attacks on the NUG's and the various Ethnic Resistance Organizations' (EROs) civil administration. Since the bombing of the NUG office in Pa Zi Gyi, the military has destroyed two NUG offices in Magway. It had only targeted one other NUG office in the past six months. Of the four, two were destroyed by air attacks.

Targeting health care and public services

The NUG's provision of health care seems to be a case in point.

In the six-month period from November 2022 to April 2023, I have documented 35 separate attacks on health care facilities, either directly controlled by the NUG or EROs, or in areas under their influence. Health care providers were amongst the first and staunchest supporters of the civil disobedience movement.

These attacks have led to the death of four, with 13 people wounded. In 17 attacks, the health care facilities were completely destroyed, while eight suffered major damage; the remainder had minimal damage.

Fifteen of those attacks were from either air-dropped bombs, or rocket fire and machine gun attacks from helicopter gunships. Four health care facilities were damaged by artillery fire. The rest of the attacks on health care facilities were caused by ground forces or pro-regime militias.

Fourteen of the 35 attacks, or 40 percent, were in Sagaing, which has seen a disproportionate amount of violence, and four were in neighboring Magway. Four occurred in Kayin, while the remainder were spread in Shan, Kachin, Tanintharyi, Kachin, and Kayah.

In the latest attack, a helicopter dropped a 500-pound (227 kilogram) bomb on a health clinic in Shan State, though the bomb failed to detonate. Only three people were wounded.

The military has also routinely targeted both the NUG's education system and rural schools that are technically part of the state system but which are actively supporting and staffed by members of the Civil Disobedience Movement.

Since November 2022, it has either bombed, struck by artillery or destroyed by ground forces some 20 schools. Six were destroyed in Kayin and Sagaing states, each, with two in Kachin and Kayah, and one each in Mandalay, Magway, Tanintharyi, and Chin.

Unapologetic military

The military has refused to concede that the targeting of health, educational and other social services represents a war crime. It often justifies the attacks by alleging that the PDFs were using the facilities for military purposes or that the militia members were receiving health care treatment. The military has been unapologetic in targeting those facilities.

The executive director of the the pro-military ThayNinGa Institute for Strategic Studies in Yangon, Thein Tun Oo, justified the attack on Pa Zi Gyi and others like it, calling it "ordinary ... from an anti-terrorism standpoint" and said, "No government of a country can accept a declaration of autonomy within its sovereign territory."

The attacks on the NUG's civil administration also comes when the military has increased their own budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year by 51 percent, from $1.8 billion to $2.7 billion, to deal with the escalating war.

Although the economy is no longer in freefall, the two percent growth in 2022 and three percent growth predicted in 2023 has not made up for the 18 percent decline in 2021. Revenue collection remains down. Increased military spending is coming at the expense of public health and education, where enrollment and matriculation numbers are plummeting.

The NUG's provision of health, education, and civil administration pose a threat as the regime acknowledges its own loss of control.

Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of the State Administrative Council, as the junta is formally known, conceded in an event marking the second anniversary of the coup that only 198 of the 330 townships are "100 percent stable," while the remainder required "security attention". Leaked minutes of December 2022 Ministry of Interior meeting warned of losing control and predicted escalating attacks.

The military has admitted losing control in 132 of the 330 townships, or 42 percent. As a sign of their tenuous control, the military declared martial law in 47 townships, 14 percent of the total. It's their only form of government administration that appears to be functioning.

The military government has gutted their own civil administration to wage war on its own population and an opposition government that is committed to serving the people.

Zachary Abuza is a professor at the National War College in Washington and an adjunct at Georgetown University. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of the U.S. Department of Defense, the National War College, Georgetown University or RFA.

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 May 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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Foreign Minister hosts Acting Afghan Foreign Minister at Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, hosted the Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today.

The two sides held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity. The Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement.

On peace and security, the Foreign Ministers emphasized the need for enhanced coordination to counter terrorism and deepening bilateral cooperation.

Regarding bilateral and transit trade, the two sides stressed the importance of removing impediments to trade in order to advance the goal of enhanced regional economic integration and connectivity.

The Foreign Minister of Pakistan also hosted a luncheon in honour of the visiting Afghan delegation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Acting Afghan Foreign Minister, and the Acting Afghan Minister for Commerce and Industry, is on a visit to Pakistan from 05-08 May 2023 accompanied with high-level delegations. Besides holding bilateral meetings, the Acting Afghan Foreign Minister also participated in the 5th China-Pakistan-Afghanistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Dialogue yesterday, with the participation of the Chinese Foreign Minister, where the three sides agreed to advance political engagement, counterterrorism cooperation and enhance trade, investments and connectivity under the trilateral framework.

Islamabad

07 May 2023

86/2023

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How Chechen Strongman Kadyrov Uses Official Honors To Seek Prestige And Reward Allies

By RFE/RL's Caucasus.Realities May 07, 2023

At the beginning of April, an elaborate exchange was played out in Chechnya's capital, Grozny, when federal Investigative Committee head Aleksandr Bastrykin visited the region in Russia's North Caucasus. Kremlin-backed Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov bestowed upon the senior national official the Order of Akhmad Kadyrov, the region's highest honor, for "services to the Chechen Republic."

And Bastyrkin awarded Kadyrov the Investigative Committee's medal For Valor and Courage.

The medal for Bastrykin was one of many that Kadyrov has doled out in recent months to federal officials and other prominent figures in the political system constructed under President Vladimir Putin. Analysts say the honors are part of an effort by Kadyrov, who has ruled Chechnya since his appointment by Putin in 2007 and has been widely criticized for authoritarianism and accused of massive human rights abuses, to boost his prestige and influence outside the region -- mainly in Moscow.

"Handing out medals is a 'royal prerogative,'" said Emil Aslan, a professor of politics at Charles University in Prague. "The higher the position of the person receiving the award, the higher the status of the person bestowing it -- in this case, Ramzan Kadyrov."

Diamonds, Sapphires, And Rubies

The Order of Akhmad Kadyrov -- named for Ramzan Kadyrov's father, the former president of Chechnya who was assassinated at a Victory Day parade in 2004 -- is a golden medal encrusted with 36 diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Each medal costs 315,000 rubles ($4,125). At the end of 2022, the regional government ordered 43 of them for a total cost of 13. 5 million rubles ($177,000).

Over the years, Kadyrov has awarded the medal to federal figures including Russian National Guard head and Putin associate Viktor Zolotov and State Duma Deputy Leonid Slutsky, head of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia's faction in the lower house of the national legislature. In 2018, he gave the award to Aleksandr Zaldostanov, the head of the nationalist Night Wolves motorcycle gang that has served as a Russian soft-power tool in Europe and the former Soviet Union.

Last year, Kadyrov gave the honor to the Moscow-installed heads of the occupation authorities in two partially Russian-held regions of Ukraine, Leonid Pasechnik in Luhansk and Denis Pushilin in Donetsk.

"Handing out orders and medals enables Kadyrov to once again assert that he is a powerful personality who can reward and punish according to his royal whim," Aslan said.

Czech Caucasus expert Tomas Baranec told RFE/RL that the practice of a regional leader handing out awards to national figures was "unusual."

"Kadyrov doesn't -- and never has -- considered himself just the head of some tiny subject of the [Russian] Federation," Baranec said. "And he really hasn't been, since Chechnya is not an ordinary region under the current [Russian] power structure. Plus, Kadyrov has a strong desire to establish good connections at the federal level. Giving a medal to Bastrykin is one way of cementing such ties."

North Caucasus human rights advocate Stanislav Dmitriyevsky describes the practice as a "form of domination" on Kadyrov's part.

"After all, it is usually the older and more authoritative figure who does the awarding," Dmitriyevsky said. "At least, when it comes to intragovernmental relations."

'A Weakness For Such Games'

In addition to the awards for influential people on the federal level, Kadyrov also follows the more traditional authoritarian practice of bestowing honors on his relatives and political allies, as well as local celebrities such as athletes, artists, and bloggers.

"All dictators have a weakness for such games," Dmitriyevsky said.

In March, he awarded a regional human rights defense award to himself, his mother, and, posthumously, to his father. The same month, he awarded medals For Excellence In Combating Terrorism to his 15-year-old son, Adam, and his 17-year-old son, Akhmat.

In June 2022, he awarded the Order of Akhmad Kadyrov to his 23-year-old daughter, Aishat, who is Chechnya's culture minister. The honor was ostensibly for her "enormous contribution" to the sphere of culture. Other laureates include State Duma Deputy Adam Delimkhanov -- a close ally who last year publicly vowed to kill all the members of a Kadyrov critic's family -- and two of his brothers.

For Kadyrov, handing out honors and gifts is "a signal of his status," political scientist Aslan said: "It enables him to assert his status as the arbiter, the highest in the hierarchy."

Over his years in power, Kadyrov has been accused by activists, opponents, and alleged victims of overseeing human rights abuses including abductions, torture, extrajudicial killings, assassinations of political opponents, and the persecution of sexual minorities. The Prosecutor-General's Office and Bastrykin's Investigative Committee have declined to investigate any of the allegations despite entreaties from rights groups.

Written by RFE/RL's Robert Coalson based on reporting by RFE/RL's Caucasus.Realities.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/chechnya-kadyrov- honours-rewards-allies-russia/32400610.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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by Erina Haque

The issue of whether Rohingyas should return to their motherland Myanmar is a complex one, and the recent discussions about repatriation have sparked debate. The United Nations refugee agency UNHCR has registered approximately 1 million Rohingyas who are currently residing in Bangladesh. A pilot project to repatriate over 1,100 Rohingya refugees is currently in discussion, with both Bangladesh and Myanmar seeking to start the repatriation before the monsoon season, mediated by China. However, the Rohingyas return is contingent upon whether Myanmar provides an environment supportive of repatriation.





Kutupalong Refugee Camp, Cox's Bazar Teknaf Highway, Bangladesh [Photo Credit: SH Saw Myint/Unsplash]





According to media reports, the Rohingyas did not see a supportive environment for repatriation when they visited Myanmar. Nevertheless, Bangladesh is optimistic about the possibility of Rohingya repatriation. The Bangladesh foreign ministry has stated that upon their return, each family will be given a house in the model village, land for agriculture, fertilizer, and seeds. The model village of Mangdu offers better living conditions than the Rohingya camps in Bangladesh, with hospitals, mosques, and playgrounds being constructed for them. The Rohingyas will also have the opportunity to work and do business independently. Myanmar authorities have stated that Rohingyas returning from Bangladesh will be kept at the Maungdu transit center for only three days before being transferred directly to the model village. There, they will be issued National Verification Certificates (NVCs) as citizens of Myanmar, with the National Identity Card (NID) being issued in phases if they can show the necessary documents as residents of Myanmar.





During the visit, some members of the Rohingya delegation opposed the NVC and demanded resettlement in Janmvita instead of NID and Model Village. However, most of the members of the Bangladesh delegation accompanying the Rohingya expressed satisfaction with the environment. They claimed that the environment and situation in Rakhine were good, and the Rohingyas roamed freely in Maungdoo city, busy with work. Bangladeshs Commissioner for Refugees, Relief, and Repatriation, Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, said that the environment was very good and that they were optimistic about starting the repatriation process as soon as possible.





While it is important for Rohingyas to return to their own country, it is also important to ensure that their civil rights are not further violated. An entire population cannot live as refugees of another country for years, deprived of their natural civil rights. Rohingyas have the right to return to their own country, their land, and their homes, where they will work with full civil rights to build a better life and a better future for themselves and their children. The programme may be seen as a start of the long-overdue repatriation process, which may build confidence for future repatriation in greater numbers. However, it is crucial to remember that it is only the beginning. If the initiative is successful, more Rohingyas will follow and return to their ancestral home.





Over 80% of the refugees in Coxs Bazar rely on external aid to survive. Every family gets a monthly food ration of Tk 1,030 per person. Rohingyas have repeatedly stated that running a family with this allocation is very difficult. The influx of refugees has also put immense pressure on the host communities and the environment in a densely populated country. The host communities in Coxs Bazar are highly vulnerable and at high risk of hunger like the Rohingyas, according to a WFP report.





The Rohingyas willingness to return to Myanmar is also a factor that must be considered. They may be afraid and unwilling to return if their rights will be violated further. Bangladesh will have to deal with this refugee crisis for potentially years to come, involving funding, administration, inclusive and equitable treatment of the refugees and host populations, and national security issues, among others.





It is difficult for us to shelter this huge population for very long. Therefore, it is essential to find a permanent solution to this crisis through repatriation and rehabilitation. However, it should be done in a safe, voluntary, and dignified manner with the full participation and cooperation of the Rohingyas themselves. Any repatriation initiative must address the root causes of the crisis and ensure that Rohingyas can live safely and with full citizenship rights in their own country. Until then, the international community should continue to support Bangladesh in providing essential services and protection to the refugees while also pressing Myanmar to create a conducive environment for their safe return. The repatriation of Rohingyas is not only a moral obligation but also a necessary step for regional peace and stability.





Erina Haque is a researcher, analyst and freelance contributor and columnist.
Syria urges dialogue, joint action to face challenges after returning to Arab League

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 4:30 PM

Syria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has welcomed a decision by the Arab League to bring Damascus back to its fold, stressing the importance of dialogue and joint action to confront the challenges facing the Arab world.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said Syria welcomed the decision issued during the extraordinary session of the Council of the League of Arab States regarding the resumption of the Syrian delegations' participation in the meetings of the League and all its affiliated organizations and agencies, Syria's official SANA news agency reported.

"Syria stresses in the same context the importance of dialogue and joint action to confront the challenges facing Arab countries," it added.

The ministry reaffirmed Syria's commitment to strengthening joint Arab work and cooperation, emphasizing that the next stage requires an effective and constructive approach at the bilateral and collective levels based on dialogue, mutual respect and common interests.

Arab League formally brings Syria back into its fold: Spokesman

Earlier on Sunday, a spokesperson for the Arab League said foreign ministers of the 22-member intergovernmental organization of Arab states adopted a decision to reinstate Syria's membership after its suspension 12 years ago.

The decision, which will consolidate a regional push to normalize ties with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, said the country could immediately resume its participation in meetings of Arab League and all its organizations and agencies.

It also called for a resolution of the crisis resulting from Syria's conflict, including the flight of refugees to neighboring states and drug smuggling across the region.

Gamal Roshdy, the spokesman for the Arab League's secretary general, said the decision was taken at a closed meeting of foreign ministers at the body's headquarters in the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

Assad can attend Arab League summit 'if he wishes to'

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said on Sunday that President Assad can attend an Arab League summit in Saudi Arabia later this month "if he wishes to."

Responding to a question over whether Assad could participate in the summit, Aboul Gheit told a news conference in Cairo, "If he wishes, because Syria, starting from this evening, is a full member of the Arab League, and from tomorrow morning they have the right to occupy any seat."

"When the invitation is sent by the hosting country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and if he wishes to participate, he will participate," he added.

Some Arab states including the United Arab Emirates pushed for Syria's readmission, but others such as Qatar remained largely opposed to full normalization without a political solution to the Syrian conflict.

Some Arab countries also stressed the importance of setting conditions for Syria's return. Last week, Jordan's foreign minister said that the Arab League's reacceptance of Syria would only be the start of "a very long and difficult and challenging process."

The Arab foreign ministers on Sunday said that Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt and the Arab League's Secretary General would form a ministerial contact group to liaise with the Syrian government and seek "step-by-step" solutions to the crisis.

Practical steps would also include efforts to facilitate the delivery of aid in Syria.

Since March 2011, Syria has been gripped by a campaign of militancy and destruction sponsored by the US and its allies.

In recent years, however, Syrian government forces, backed by Russia and Iran, have managed to win back control of almost all regions from terrorist groups.

The Arab League suspended the membership of Syria - one of the organization's founding members - in November 2011, citing an alleged crackdown by Damascus on opposition protests. Syria denounced the move as "illegal and a violation of the organization's charter."

In recent months, an increasing number of countries and political parties have called for the reversal of Syria's suspension from the Arab League.

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Syria welcomed back into Arab League fold after 12 years in defiance of US

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 10:35 AM

The Arab League, a 22-member intergovernmental organization of Arab states, on Sunday agreed to welcome Syria back into the fold with immediate effect after more than a decade.

The decision was made by Arab foreign ministers during a closed-door meeting in the Egyptian capital Cairo on Sunday, media reports said, defying diktats issued by the US and some of its allies.

An Egyptian diplomat told the Abu Dhabi-based The National newspaper that the return was "conditional," adding that Syria's full membership of the Arab League was dependent on the return of Syrian refugees without retributions and a credible political process in the country.

Earlier, the Lebanese foreign minister attached great importance to Syria's return to the Arab League, saying his country supports the process.

Abdullah Bou Habib made the remarks before leaving Beirut for Cairo to attend the meeting of top Arab diplomats, Lebanon's online newspaper el-Nashra reported on Sunday.

Bou Habib also said that Lebanon has submitted proposals to the Arab League regarding Syria's return to the Arab fold.

Arab League envoys back Syria's readmission

Saudi media reported that permanent representatives at the Arab League Council supported Syria's return to the pan-Arab body during a meeting on Saturday.

Citing an unnamed diplomatic source, the Saudi daily Okaz said Saturday's meeting saw overwhelming support for resumption of Syria's participation in the Arab League meetings.

"The decision on Syria's return to its vacant seat in the Arab League lies in the hands of Arab foreign ministers. It will be decided in two extraordinary sessions in Cairo on Sunday," the source was quoted as saying.

The al-Arabiya TV channel also raised the possibility of Syria's readmission to the bloc.

On Friday, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi told CNN that there are enough votes among Arab League members for Syria to return to the organization.

The Arab world, he added, is now taking the lead on resolving the Syria crisis, as "there was no effective effort" so far to do so.

"The return to the league will happen. Symbolically it will be important but ... that is only a very humble beginning of what will be a very long and difficult and challenging process, given the complexity of the crisis after 12 years of conflict," Safadi noted.

Since March 2011, Syria has been gripped by a campaign of militancy and destruction sponsored by the US and its allies.

In recent years, however, Syrian government forces, backed by Russia and Iran, have managed to win back control of almost all regions from terrorist groups.

The Arab League suspended the membership of Syria - one of the organizations's founding members - in November 2011, citing an alleged crackdown by Damascus on opposition protests. Syria denounced the move as "illegal and a violation of the organization's charter."

In recent months, an increasing number of countries and political parties have called for the reversal of Syria's suspension from the Arab League.

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Arab Foreign Ministers Decide to Resume Participation of Syrian Delegations in Meetings of Arab League

Saudi Press Agency

Cairo, May 07, 2023, SPA -- At the level of Arab Foreign Ministers, the Council of the League of Arab States has decided to resume the participation of delegations of the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic in the meetings of the Council of the League of Arab States, and all its affiliated organizations and agencies, as of today. The Council issued this resolution in its extraordinary session held today at the Arab League headquarters to discuss developments in Syria.

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Syria's sovereignty, territorial unity, stability, and regional integrity, based on the charter and principles of the League of Arab States. It also stressed the importance of continuing and intensifying Arab efforts aimed at helping Syria to end its crisis, which has caused the suffering of the Syrian people for years.

The Council welcomed the Arab statements from the Jeddah and Amman meetings on Syria that were released on April 14 and May 1, respectively, as well as the eagerness to begin a leading Arab role in efforts to resolve the Syrian crisis that addresses all of the humanitarian, security, and political consequences for Syria and its people, as well as the effects of this crisis on neighbouring countries, the region, and the world, particularly the burden of refugees, the danger of terrorism, and the danger of drug smuggling.

The Council also welcomed the Arab Republic of Syria's willingness to work with other Arab nations to put the outcomes of the pertinent Arab statements into practice, as well as the necessity of putting into practice the agreements and consensus reached at the Amman meeting and adopting the necessary mechanisms to activate the Arab role. In accordance with Security Council Resolution No. 2254, the Council emphasized the need for practical and effective measures to be taken in order to gradually resolve the crisis. These measures should begin with ongoing measures that permit the delivery of humanitarian aid to all Syrians in need in accordance with the mechanisms adopted in pertinent Security Council resolutions.

The Council decided to form a ministerial liaison committee consisting of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, and the Secretary-General of the Arab League to follow up on the implementation of the Amman Declaration and to continue the direct dialogue with the Syrian government to reach a comprehensive solution to the Syrian crisis that addresses all its consequences, according to the step-for-step approach, and in line with the Security Council resolution 2254 and the committee submits periodic reports to the Arab League Council at the ministerial level.

The Council called on the Secretary-General of the Arab League to follow up on the implementation of the resolution.

--SPA

21:52 LOCAL TIME 18:52 GMT

0028

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Moscow Welcomes Syria's Return to LAS

Sputnik News

20230507

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia welcomes the resumption of Syria's participation in the work of the League of Arab States (LAS), this will improve the state of affairs in the region, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said.

On Sunday, LAS foreign ministers announced that Syria was returning to the organization.

"Moscow welcomes this long-awaited step, which has become a logical result of the process of returning Syria to the 'Arab family' that has gained momentum. For our part, in contact with the Arab capitals, we consistently called on them to restore full-fledged relations with Damascus," Zakharova said in a statement on Sunday.

She added that the resumption of Syria's participation in the work of the Arab League, of which it is one of the founding states, will help improve the atmosphere in the Middle East region.

Zakharova expressed hope that LAS will support Syria in its post-conflict reconstruction, which is complicated by the illegitimate unilateral sanctions against Damascus.

The Russian embassy in Cairo, Egypt said in a statement that it welcomed the decision of the Arab League to restore Syria's full membership in the organization. The embassy expressed confidence that the return of Damascus will make a significant contribution to overcoming the challenges facing the region and will further enhance the role of the Arab League in international affairs.

The 22-nation Arab League suspended Syria's membership in 2011 after a war broke out in the country. Several member states then recalled their ambassadors from Syria in protest against Syrian President Bashar Assad's policies, accusing his government of cracking down on demonstrators in the country. Years later, some of the nations have begun taking steps to reengage with Damascus and reopen embassies.

A Sputnik

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Syria Resumes Participation in Arab League Starting From Sunday

Sputnik News

20230507

CAIRO (Sputnik) - Syria resumes its participation in the work of Arab League starting from May 7, the foreign ministers of the organization said in a statement on Sunday.

"An agreement was reached that the delegations of the government of the Syrian Arab Republic shall take part in the sessions of the Council of the Arab League, as well as all its institutions starting from May 7, 2023," the statement said.

The 22-nation Arab League suspended Syria's membership in 2011 after a war broke out in the country. Several member states then recalled their ambassadors from Syria in protest against Syrian President Bashar Assad's policies, accusing his government of cracking down on demonstrators in the country. Years later, some of the nations have begun taking steps to reengage with Damascus and reopen embassies.

A Sputnik

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Arab League Agrees to Readmit Syria With Conditions

By Edward Yeranian May 07, 2023

Arab League foreign ministers, meeting in Cairo Sunday, have agreed to restore Syria's membership in the League after a suspension of over 10 years due to the country's civil war. The ministers also agreed to support the U.S.-Saudi peace initiative to resolve the conflict in Sudan.

The Arab League Foreign Minister's decision to restore Syria's membership in the body was reportedly not unanimous but was made in a majority vote taken during a closed session. The move comes days before a scheduled Arab League summit in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

An Arab League statement noted that the "resolution of the Syria conflict is a step-by-step matter," and that the first step was the resumption of Syrian participation in Arab League meetings. The group supports the "territorial integrity of Syria," and the "withdrawal of all foreign forces" from the country.

Arab League spokesperson Jamal Rushdy said Sunday's decision does "not signal an end to the conflict in Syria, but the beginning of an end." He added that the Syria crisis "is not just a domestic conflict, but a regional and international conflict," noting that the Arab League "would like to be involved in the resolution to the conflict," because of its repercussions on many Arab countries.

He said the decision to give Syria its seat back is mostly a symbolic political move, after so many years of not allowing Syria to participate in the group, and Arab states would like Syria to be a party to the resolution of its conflict.

Khattar Abou Diab, who teaches political science at the University of Paris, tells VOA that welcoming Syria back to the Arab League comes at a bad time, several days after the visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raissi to Damascus, in which Tehran and Damascus concluded long-term deals over oil, phosphates, transport, electricity, agriculture and other major economic issues.

He says that the decision to give Syria its seat back at the Arab League signals a complete victory of the Syrian regime and it is symbolic for the Syrian government. The international community, he points out, has allowed Syria to retain its seat at the U.N., so if Damascus can still be a member of the U.N., there's no reason why it can't be a member of the Arab league.

Abou Diab added that Syria is now effectively divided into three or four zones of influence, with the Assad regime controlling a large chunk of the country, under Iranian and Russian influence, with the Turks controlling part of the northwest of the country under the control of pro-Turkish militias and jihadis, and with the Kurds controlling the northeast with the support of the U.S., in addition to Israeli control over the skies of the country.

On another topic, Arab League head Ahmed Aboul Gheit, addressing Arab League foreign ministers, noted that the Sudan conflict is "at a crossroads," as the situation "continues to worsen."

He says that many Sudanese refugees are flowing into neighboring countries and none of seven truces have succeeded in bringing a halt to the conflict and the Arab League must support the U.S.-Saudi peace initiative to end the conflict, amid efforts by various players to divide Sudan into warring mini-states.

Saudi-sponsored talks to end the Sudanese conflict are continuing in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as representatives of both Sudanese military leader Gen. Abdel Fattah al Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo meet to discuss the situation. Both leaders fought in Yemen under the auspices of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

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Turkey rejects US proposal to deliver S-400 to Ukraine

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 2:23 PM

Turkey says Ankara has rejected Washington's proposal to send the Russian-made S-400 air defense missile system to Ukraine.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu made the remarks during an interview with the HabertArk newspaper on Sunday, noting that the proposals by Washington were unacceptable as they sought to infringe on Turkish sovereignty.

"They made proposals that directly concern our sovereignty, such as give us control of this, give it to another place. Where is our independence and sovereignty?" he said.

"The US asked us to send the S-400s to Ukraine, and we said no," he added.

This comes as the Pentagon has reportedly had long talks with Ankara on sending S-400 to Kiev in exchange for Turkey's joining the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet program and the sanctions on it being lifted.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has already said that claims that Turkey could supply Ukraine with its S-400 missile systems in exchange for sanctions on it being lifted are a ploy against Ankara to stir up problems for the country.

Moscow and Ankara signed an agreement in 2017 to deliver the S-400 to Turkey, making it the first NATO member to purchase the air defense missile system from Russia.

The United States, which has imposed sanctions on Turkey's defense industry over the missile purchase, had urged Ankara not to go ahead with the delivery of the missiles.

Ankara had formerly purchased America's F-35 jets, but in retaliation for Turkey's S-400 purchase, the administration of former US President Donald Trump halted its delivery of the jets.

The United States and Russia have long been at loggerheads over Ankara's purchase of the missile system.

Washington says the Russian S-400 system is a danger if activated in the same country that flies F-35 jets.

It claims the S-400 would collect detailed information about the F-35s, possibly erasing their stealth advantages.

Turkey received the first batch of S-400s in July 2019, despite Washington's warnings and threats of sanctions.

The White House said at the time that it was no longer possible for Turkey to be involved in the program for the F-35 stealth jets after parts of S-400 began arriving in Ankara.

It also said it would impose sanctions on Turkey under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

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Ukraine launches nearly a dozen drone strikes on Crimea Peninsula: Russia

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 07 May 2023 7:05 AM

Ukraine launched more than 10 drones overnight on the Crimean Peninsula, hitting Russian targets in the cities of Sevastopol and Saki, where Russia has an air base, the local governor says.

Sevastopol's governor Mikhail Razvozhayev reported on social media on Sunday that Kiev's forces struck the Crimean Peninsula. As per reports, three of these hit the port of Sevastopol.

Razvozhayev added that Sevastopol's air defense systems thwarted all of the strikes.

Other places, including Sevastopol port, also came under attack, as per Ukrainian Telegram channels.

"No objects (in Sevastopol) were damaged," Razvozhayev said on Telegram.

There were no reports of damage elsewhere on the Crimean Peninsula, as the war enters a new phase amid Ukraine's preparations for its huge spring offensive against Russia.

In the past fortnight, Ukraine has launched an increased number of attacks against Russian areas, particularly Crimea. Ukraine claims the attacks and destruction of infrastructure are a prelude to its upcoming offensive.

Last week, at least five Russian fuel facilities close to Ukraine's borders and in Crimea came under attack.

Kiev's drones have even reached the Russian capital, Moscow, with two of these unmanned aircraft crashing into the Kremlin's roof.

Meanwhile, air raid alerts blared overnight into early Sunday over nearly two-thirds of Ukraine, with officials saying a number of drones, including one over Kiev's airspace, were shot down.

The alerts extended from the capital Kiev and regions to the west of it through to all regions in the east as well as south to Kherson region and Crimea.

The Kremlin, which vowed to take retaliatory measures against Ukraine's attacks, has repeatedly condemned the Kiev's forces for carrying out incessant drone strikes on the Russian territory.

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Nuclear Concerns And Mass Evacuations In South Ukraine As Russia Keeps Up Pressure In The East

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service May 07, 2023

Russians kept up pressure on eastern Ukraine on May 7 with claims of more ammunition for mercenaries in Bakhmut and Ukrainians sought shelter from possible air attacks, as UN nuclear officials expressed intense concern over risks to Europe's largest nuclear power plant, at Zaporizhzhya in southern Ukraine.

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, said he was "extremely concerned" as Ukrainian forces stepped up shelling to dislodge Russian forces near the Zaporizhzhya plant, which was captured early in the 14-month-old invasion.

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," Grossi said in a statement. "I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant."

Air-raid alerts sounded overnight on May 6-7 in many regions of Ukraine amid unpredictable Russian bombardments and ongoing fighting for Bakhmut ahead of a patriotic anniversary in Russia.

Late on May 7 and early May 8, Ukrainian media reported explosions in the southern port city of Odesa and that air-raid sirens were again blaring in Kyiv and other cities.

Earlier, in its morning update on May 7, the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces cautioned that "the likelihood of missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains quite high."

It said Russian troops were focusing their "main efforts" in the districts of Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Maryinka, in the eastern Donetsk region, with "heavy fighting for the cities of Bakhmut and Maryinka."

Ukrainian General Oleksandr Syrskiy, the commander of Ukrainian ground forces, said the situation in the east was "tense but under control."

Syrskiy said Russian forces have intensified their shelling and have attempted to reorganize troops in the region in recent days.

"This indicates that the enemy will not change its plans and is doing everything to gain control of Bakhmut and continue its offensive," he said.

Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar has said that Russian troops and Wagner mercenaries look to be doing their utmost to capture Bakhmut in a "symbolic" push by May 9, when Moscow celebrates World War II Victory Day.

On May 7, the head of the Wagner group supplying mercenaries to fight alongside regular Russian forces in Ukraine, Yevgeny Prigozhin, also claimed that he had been promised adequate supplies of weapons and ammunition for the ongoing Bakhmut offensive.

Months into Russian forces' furious offensive to capture Bakhmut with an apparently heavy toll in casualties, Prigozhin this week issued graphic, expletive-filled video appeals threatening to pull his fighters out of the area. He blamed failures on the military leadership and its perceived unwillingness to provide sufficient ammunition.

Prigozhin also suggested he would pass control of the occupied areas to troops under pro-Kremlin Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov immediately after the May 9 anniversary.

In his latest comments on May 7, Prigozhin did not specifically say he was reversing his plans to pull his forces from the city but said he had been given permission to "act in Bakhmut as we see fit."

Ukrainian authorities announced air alerts after 10 p.m. local time on May 6 for most regions of eastern, southern, and central Ukraine and urged citizens to hide in shelters.

The Moscow-installed leader of Russian-annexed Crimea's biggest city, Sevastopol, claimed at least 10 drone attacks had targeted the peninsula overnight in the latest accusation by Russians of a rash of airborne attacks, including on Russian territory that included the Kremlin in Moscow.

Concerns meanwhile mounted around the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant as Russian and international officials cite a Ukrainian push to recapture territory.

Moscow has already ordered families with children and elderly members to evacuate Russian-occupied areas near Zaporizhzhya.

Ivan Fedorov, the mayor of the town of Melitopol, in Zaporizhzhya Oblast, said he was not sure "how voluntary this relocation is."

Fedorov also said it sparked "a mad panic and no less mad queues" at a checkpoint into Russian-annexed Crimea, with buses leaving every half-hour or so and gasoline in short supply, according to AFP. He said he feared Russia might be "preparing for provocations" in the area.

The Ukrainian General Staff said of the Zaporizhzhya events and the Russian-ordered evacuation that "the first to be evacuated are those who accepted [R]ussian citizenship in the first months of the occupation."

With reporting by Reuters and AFP

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-air-raid-alarms- zaporizhzhya-nuclear-evacuation/32400356.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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Air Raid Sirens Sound in Multiple Regions of Ukraine, Including Kiev - Authorities

Sputnik News

20230507

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Air raid warnings were in effect in several regions of Ukraine late on Sunday night, including the capital Kiev, according to air raid data from the country's Ministry of Digital Transformation.

Air raid sirens went off in the Ukrainian region of Kiev, including the capital city itself, at around 23:35 local time on Sunday (20:35 GMT), the ministry's online map showed.

Earlier in the evening, air raid alerts were issued in the Ukrainian regions of Kirovohrad, Chernihiv, Vinnytsia and Poltava.

Earlier on Sunday, air raid sirens sounded in the regions of Odessa, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk and the Ukraine-controlled part of Kherson region.

Ukrainian media reported that explosions were heard in Odessa and the Kiev region late on Sunday night.

Precision strikes against Ukrainian infrastructure have been carried out by Russia since October 10 (two days after the terrorist attack on the Crimean Bridge).

In February, the head of Ukrainian power grid operator Ukrenergo said that direct damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure caused by Russian strikes may amount to hundreds of millions of dollars, with economic losses ranging in billions.

A Sputnik

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by Muhammad Wasama Khalid

Kashmirs quest for self-determination and freedom has lasted decades. Kashmiris have been in the vanguard of this battle, advocating for their rights and opposing Indian authority via peaceful protests and acts of resistance. Despite the difficulties they have experienced, the Kashmiri people have stayed persistent in their quest of independence and justice.





Kashmir is a region in northern India that has long been at the focus of a territorial dispute between India and Pakistan. Since 1947, when India achieved independence from Britain and was divided into two countries, India and Pakistan, the region has been under Indian authority. Since then, the Kashmiris have fought for their rights, especially the right to self-determination and independence from Indian rule.





Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, India [Photo credit: Jannes Jacobs/ Unsplash]





The Kashmir conflict has its origins in the regions historical and political environment. Kashmir was divided between India and Pakistan as a result of Indias split in 1947. This partition, however, was not peaceful, and the two countries have been at conflict for regional authority ever since. The conflict has resulted in three wars and skirmishes, the most recent being the ongoing conflict over the Indian governments revocation of Article 35A and 370 in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which has been marked by human rights violations, state-sponsored violence, and the suppression of civil liberties.





The Kashmiri peoples resistance to Indian domination demonstrates their tenacity, power, and resolve. Despite the obstacles, they continue to struggle for their rights, demonstrating that they are unwilling to give up their liberties or their right to self-determination. They have demonstrated via their resistance that they are the guardians of their land and the protectors of their rights.





Kashmiris have been fighting Indian authority in a variety of ways, including peaceful marches, civil disobedience, and armed resistance. Peaceful protests have been a regular form of resistance, with Kashmiris going to the streets to oppose the Indian governments policies and breaches of human rights in the area. Armed resistance was also part of the resistance movement, with certain organisations urging the use of force to fight Indian authority.





Civil society and human rights groups have played an important part in the Kashmir resistance movement. These groups have been critical in recording human rights violations, campaigning for Kashmiri peoples rights, and offering support and help to individuals impacted by the war.





In their battle against Indian domination, the Kashmiri people have faced several hurdles. To crush the resistance movement, the Indian government has utilised military force, limited civil freedoms, and enforced mobility restrictions. Furthermore, the Kashmiri people have endured economic and social difficulties, such as unemployment, poverty, and a lack of access to fundamental amenities including as healthcare and education. Despite these obstacles, the Kashmiri people have maintained their resistance to Indian rule, exhibiting their enduring spirit and desire to protect their land and rights.





Indian soldiers have perpetrated several human rights abuses and crimes in Kashmir throughout their rule. Extrajudicial deaths, forced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and incarceration, and widespread use of torture have all occurred. Furthermore, the Indian government has enforced curfews and mobility restrictions, restricting the Kashmiri peoples capacity to freely express themselves and engage in political activities.





The Indian occupation of Kashmir has had a significant influence on Kashmiri socioeconomic and cultural life. The battle has resulted in massive devastation and displacement, as well as pervasive poverty and unemployment. The actions of the Indian government have also led in a reduction in the regions level of living, with restricted access to essential amenities like as healthcare and education. In addition, the Indian government has enforced cultural restrictions, restricting the Kashmiri peoples capacity to retain and express their cultural history and identity.





The international community must play a critical role in resolving the situation in Kashmir. The international community must hold the Indian government accountable for its actions and campaign for the Kashmiri peoples rights and freedoms. Furthermore, the international community can have a role in resolving the issue and supporting attempts to find a peaceful conclusion. Nonetheless, despite demands from the Kashmiri people and human rights organisations, the international community has mostly failed to take effective action to improve the situation in Kashmir.





The Kashmiri peoples unwavering passion and desire to protect their land and rights is exemplified by their resistance against Indian domination. Despite multiple difficulties and breaches of their human rights, they have maintained a peaceful and nonviolent resistance to claim their right to self-determination. This resistance is vital not only for the people of Kashmir, but also for the broader context of the fight for freedom and justice.





The international community must demonstrate sympathy and support for the Kashmiri people in their struggle against Indian occupation. This may take numerous forms, from increasing awareness about the situation in Kashmir to lobbying for Kashmiri peoples rights on a worldwide scale. The Kashmiri people can only expect to accomplish their aim of independence and self-determination via collective action.





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
Possibility of Ukrainian Counteroffensive in Coming Days Persists - Zaporozhye Official

Sputnik News

20230507

SIMFEROPOL (Sputnik) - The possibility of Ukrainian troops launching a major counteroffensive in the Zaporozhye Region in the next few days persists, which justifies the evacuation of residents of nearby villages and towns, Vladimir Rogov, a senior official of the Zaporozhye regional administration, told Sputnik on Sunday.

"There were assumptions that the counteroffensive in the Zaporozhye Region might start on May 5 or 6, but this did not happen. However, a high probability of the counteroffensive being launched in the upcoming days still persists. Both our troops and the enemy are ready to intensify military actions," Rogov said.

On Thursday, Rogov said that Kiev had accumulated its forces at the forefront to launch the counteroffensive. On Friday, Yevgeny Balitsky, the acting governor of the Zaporozhye Region, stated that Ukraine might start its counteroffensive in the coming days or even hours. Residents of 18 villages located near the front line have been evacuated for safety reasons deeper into the region, Balitsky added.

Ukraine's upcoming counteroffensive is expected to be accompanied by the shelling of nearby villages, so the authorities' decision to temporary relocate the residents is justified, the official explained to Sputnik. Once Ukrainian troops are pushed back, the people will be able to return to home.

The Ukrainian government has been planning a major counteroffensive against Russia for several months. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said in early April that Kiev had scheduled its counteroffensive for the summer, while US media reported that it was expected to start on April 30. The Foreign Policy newspaper reported, citing Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandra Ustinova, that Kiev indeed had hoped to launch its counteroffensive in April, but later postponed it indefinitely due to a shortage of weapons.

A Sputnik

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Russian Forces Destroy Ukrainian Arms Depot - Defense Ministry

Sputnik News

20230507

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian artillery units have destroyed a Ukrainian weapons warehouse, a Russian Defense Ministry spokesperson told Sputnik.

"Mortar crews, an Akatsiya self-propelled artillery mount, a satellite communications system and a Bukovel-AD electronic warfare station were destroyed. In addition, a warehouse for storing weapons and repair kits intended for rocket-artillery, armored and mobile equipment of the 124th brigade of the territorial defense of the armed forces of Ukraine was destroyed," the spokesperson said.

He added that Russian forces have also disabled three Ukrainian drones near the villages of Krinki, Obrivka and Vinogradovo in the Kherson region, by means of electronic warfare.

A Sputnik

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IAEA Says Concerned About Nuclear Safety Risks at Zaporozhye NPP

Sputnik News

20230507

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed concern over the potentially dangerous situation at the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant (ZNPP).

The IAEA said on Saturday that its experts at the ZNPP had received information about the announcement of an evacuation of residents from the town of Enerhodar where most of the NPP staff reside.

"The general situation in the area near the [Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant] is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous. I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant. We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment. This major nuclear facility must be protected. I will continue to press for a commitment by all sides to achieve this vital objective, and the IAEA will continue to do everything it can to help ensure nuclear safety and security at the plant," IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a Saturday statement.

Earlier on Saturday, ZNPP Site Director Yuri Chernichuk said on Telegram that the nuclear power plant's blocks were all shut down and the equipment was maintained in accordance with all the safety and security regulations. Chernichuk said that there was no need to evacuate the ZNPP staff, or Enerhodar residents.

Vladimir Rogov, a senior official of the Zaporozhye regional administration, told Sputnik on Friday that the ZNPP was operating in regular mode and there was no need to evacuate the plant's staff.

Acting governor of the Zaporozhye region, Yevgeny Balitsky, said on Friday that the counteroffensive of Ukrainian troops in the region would be launched in the coming days or hours. The authorities of the Zaporozhye region decided to temporarily resettle residents living within a 30-kilometer (18.6-mile) zone from the combat line to the south of the region, the governor said.

A Sputnik

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All those who help Ukraine restore security, who put pressure on Russia - all are defenders of peace - address of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine

7 May 2023 - 20:22

Dear Ukrainians, I wish you health!

This week is coming to an end - a very fruitful one for Ukraine. And these days we are actively preparing for new events in May and June. We should make this time no less fruitful both in the supply of weapons for our soldiers, and in solutions for Ukraine, in negotiations with our partners.

An important legislative initiative for our society has been prepared. Sanction decisions against the aggressor are being prepared. We are waiting for international meetings of various levels in Kyiv. We are talking to our partners about weapons that will help us do more to restore peace.

This week, many of our partners led in helping Ukraine, helping Ukrainians. From the United States to New Zealand, from the Netherlands and Belgium to Croatia. Northern European countries - Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Iceland. I thank the partners for every decision in support of Ukraine!

We are also working out in great detail new steps to help Ukraine with our other partners, we expect them in the near future - exactly what is needed for our strength on the front lines, for the defense of our sky, for justice against terrorists and for the faster restoration of peace for the entire Ukrainian land. I will definitely inform you about those decisions that can be discussed in public.

It is very important that the world knows about every fact of Russian terror against our people, that the world talks about what the terrorist state is doing, and how we protect life. I am grateful to everyone who helps us by spreading the truth about Russian strikes and shelling, about the brutality of the occupiers, which does not stop for a day!

Endless Russian terror against Nikopol, brutal shelling of the city of Kherson and the region, strikes on the city of Kharkiv and the region, terror against villages in the border areas of Chernihiv region and Sumy region, hell in Donetsk region... Only yesterday, and only in one Russian attack on Kherson region, nine Ukrainians were killed - they were engaged in demining, restoring safety for people. My condolences to the relatives and friends of the deceased.

Security is the main goal for Russia. Both in our country and everywhere in Europe, everywhere in the free world. Destroying security, bringing death and chaos is all a terrorist state does. And everyone who helps Ukraine restore security, everyone who strengthens partnerships between countries in Europe for the sake of security, for the sake of common strength, everyone who puts pressure on the terrorist state - all are defenders of peace. I thank everyone in the world who is with Ukraine, who supports our soldiers!

Glory to all our soldiers now in battle, at combat posts, and on combat missions!

I commend the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade and the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade for the successful destruction of terrorists in Donetsk region! Thank you, warriors!

The 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, 93rd Mechanized Brigade. Thanks to all of you, guys, for the heroic defense of the positions, and for exemplary resistance! Good job!

There are also results worth noting in the Tavria direction, there are also teams that have something to thank for today.

Paratroopers of the 79th Air Assault Brigade and gunners of the 55th Separate Artillery Brigade Zaporizka Sich - thank you, warriors, for your courage and strength!

Fighters of the 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade and Marines of the 35th Separate Marine Brigade named after Rear-Admiral Mykhailo Ostrohradsky - thank you!

Thank you to each of our soldiers, thank you to each of you for every success on the battlefield!

Glory to you, Ukrainian heroes!

Glory to Ukraine!

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Andriy Yermak had a phone call with Jake Sullivan

President of Ukraine

7 May 2023 - 09:31

On the instructions of the President and in the framework of the ongoing dialogue with international partners, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak had a phone call with National Security Advisor to the President of the United States Jake Sullivan.

Andriy Yermak informed the interlocutor about the current situation at the front, the preparation of defense forces units for the liberation of Ukrainian territories from the occupiers, as well as the urgent needs of the Ukrainian army.

The parties also discussed the Peace Formula initiated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Head of the President's Office thanked the entire team of U.S. President Joseph Biden, both houses of the U.S. Congress and the friendly American people for their consistent, comprehensive support to Ukraine in the fight against the aggressor state to preserve freedom and respect for international law, and restore a just peace in Europe and the world.

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Latest in Ukraine: Russia Launches Airstrike on Kyiv

By VOA News May 07, 2023

New developments:

Fears about the safety of Europe's largest nuclear power plant is growing after the Moscow-installed governor of the Ukrainian region where it is located ordered civilian evacuations.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prighozin said his forces will remain in the besieged Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. He indicated his soldiers will continue the assault on the city after the Russian military promised more arms and ammunition.

Russian nationalist writer Zakhar Prilepin sent a defiant message to those who attempted to assassinate him. Prilepin is recovering from extensive injuries after a car bomb exploded killing his driver.

At least five people were injured in Kyiv early Monday when Russia launched a massive strike on the Ukraine capital.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on the messaging app Telegram that three people were wounded in blasts in Kyiv's Solomyanskyi district and two in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capital's center.

Klitschko also said drone wreckage had fallen on a two-story building in the Sviatoshyn region.

The city administration said debris fell on a parked car, causing the car to catch fire.

Russian missiles also set ablaze a food warehouse in the Black Sea city of Odesa and blasts were reported in several other Ukrainian regions, Reuters reported.

The large-scale attacks come as Moscow prepares for its Victory Day parade on Tuesday.

Moscow reportedly wants a complete capture of Bakhmut to coincide with the country's upcoming Victory Day, the anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

Russia's mercenary Wagner Group reversed its intention to withdraw from the besieged eastern Ukrainian city. Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said his forces will remain there after Moscow promised to provide more arms to conscripts.

Also Sunday, fears about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in east Ukraine grew after Russian officials ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements around the nuclear power plant.

The plant is near the front line of battles between Russian and Ukrainian forces. Russia fired more than 30 shells at Nikopol, a Ukrainian-held town neighboring the plant, killing a 72-year-old woman and injuring three others Sunday, according to Ukrainian authorities.

Ukraine has also mounted attacks in the vicinity of the plant, according to The Associated Press.

Labor shortage

Russia is facing one its worst labor shortages since 1998. In an intelligence update Sunday, the British Defense Ministry wrote that the Russian Central Bank surveyed 14,000 employees and found that its labor force was at its lowest level since 1998.

The British Defense Ministry said the attrition of manpower due to the war in Ukraine as well as the mass exodus of Russians trying to avoid the draft are partially to blame for the labor shortage. The survey also showed that the Russian population has decreased by 2 million in the last three years due to the COVID pandemic and an aging population.

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 7 May 2023.Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/RwUoR1noSVYY #StandWithUkraine YY pic.twitter.com/dpkV4CyZVP

a Ministry of Defence YY (@DefenceHQ) May 7, 2023

Russian car bombing

The prominent Russian nationalist writer, Zakhar Prilepin, who barely escaped death from a car bomb attack Saturday, sent a defiant message to his attackers.

"To the demons I say: You will scare nobody. There is a God. We will win," he wrote Sunday on the messaging app Telegram from the hospital in the Nizhny Novgorod region where he is recovering.

Russia's state Investigative Committee said his Audi Q7 was blown up Saturday in a village, about 400 kilometers (250 miles) east of Moscow. The attacker fled the scene.

Prilepin said both his legs were broken by the explosion that killed his driver. Russia's Foreign Ministry blamed Ukraine and the Western states backing it, particularly the United States, for the attack on the pro-Russia writer.

Ukraine's security services neither confirmed nor denied involvement. Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said he believed Russian authorities had staged the attack.

The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Finnish Swedish English

Aktia Bank Plc

Press release

08 May 2023 at 10.00 a.m.

Aktia was awarded the best European fixed income fund house in the series for small fund houses in the Refinitiv Lipper Fund Awards comparison. In addition, Aktia's funds once again collected first prizes in both the Nordics and Europe.

In the highly competitive European market, Aktia was chosen as the best fixed income fund house.

For six consecutive years, we have been selected as the best Finnish fixed income fund house in Morningstar's comparison, and the esteemed recognition of Lipper shows that our fixed income competence is strong throughout the European reference group. This supports our offering both in Finland and in the 15 other European countries where we offer our fixed income competence, says Uki Lammi, acting Director at Aktia Wealth Management.

International first places for Aktia's funds

Aktia EM Local Currency Frontier Bond, which invests in local currency bonds in emerging markets, was awarded as the best fund in the Bond Emerging Markets Global Local Currency series in Europe, Germany, Austria, and the Nordic countries during a three-year review period.

Aktia Nordic Micro Cap, which invests in Nordic small companies, has been awarded the best Nordic fund in the series Equity Nordic Small and Mid-Cap during a review period of three and five years. Aktia Asset Management+ Balanced Fund has won the award for the best Nordic fund in the Mixed Asset EUR Balanced-Global series during a review period of three years.

"It is great to be internationally recognised for our expertise in both fixed income and equity asset management. Thanks to our thought-out and active investment philosophy and our refined investment process, we can offer our customers first-class products", says Andreas Bergman, Director of Aktia's Portfolio Management.

For a long time, Aktia has invested in fixed income funds in emerging markets, and our EM Frontier Bond strategy is globally unique.

"We can offer a product with one of the longest return histories also in a global comparison and that represents Aktia's fixed income competence at its best. We have chosen a market and investment products, where we genuinely aim to provide the best possible solution for the investors, says Henrik Paldynski, head of the Emerging Market team.

Refinitiv Lipper is a leading international and independent producer of fund analyses and comparisons. Refinitiv Lipper Fund Awards are granted annually to the best funds and asset management and fund management companies all over the world. The awards are based on risk-weighted returns over three, five and ten years.

Further information:

Uki Lammi, acting Director at Aktia Wealth Management, tel. +358 50 545 6749, uki.lammi(at)aktia.fi

Andreas Bergman, Director of Aktia's Portfolio Management, tel. +358 40 509 1085, andreas.bergman(at)aktia.fi

Henrik Paldynski, Head of the Emerging Market team, tel. +358 44 370 1982, henrik.paldynski(at)aktia.fi

Aktia is a Finnish asset manager, bank and life insurer that has been creating wealth and wellbeing from one generation to the next for 200 years. We serve our customers in digital channels everywhere and face-to-face in our offices in the Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Vaasa, and Oulu regions. Our award-winning asset management business sells investment funds also internationally. We employ approximately 900 people around Finland. Aktia's assets under management (AuM) 31 December 2022 amounted to EUR 13.5 billion and the balance sheet total was EUR 12.4 billion. Aktia's shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd (AKTIA). aktia.com
NEW YORK, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Crisis Text Line, a national nonprofit organization that provides free, 24/7, confidential mental health support, today announced the release of its 4th annual United in Empathy Report 2022, sharing invaluable insights on the state of mental health over the past year based on conversations with texters. Crisis Text Line has a unique insight into the current mental health crisis since the organization is able to track mental health issues and social stressors that weigh on its texters, as well as the coping tools and strategies that help them get through a crisis.

Last year, people in crisis initiated more than 1.3 million conversations with Crisis Text Line, or nearly 40 million individual messages. In the 2022 report, for the first time, relationships (ie: with parents, friends, partners) became the top stressor in texter conversations as 1 in 3 texters discussed relationship stress or dysfunction. In addition, nearly 1 in 5 texters talked about suffering from the absence of human connection  feeling isolated or lonely. We also saw that as more kids went back to school in person, there was an increase in conversations surrounding bullying and relationship stress. Mentions of social stressors such as finances, opioids, and guns also increased.

We all know that the after effects of the pandemic have been hard on everyones mental health, particularly Gen-Z. We are seeing that teens talked more about suicide, self harm, bullying, and eating disorders last year than older textersthe need for mental health support is more critical than ever, said Dena Trujillo, CEO of Crisis Text Line. We cant achieve our mission to support people wherever they are without our volunteer Crisis Counselors. They are part of the mental health solution. Not only are our volunteers supporting texters in their moment of need but the skills they gain also help them support their family and friends as well as navigate their own mental health.

Crisis Text Line also explored the coping strategies that helped texters navigate the crises in their lives. Our texters turned to a wide variety of tools such as listening to music, connecting with friends, arts & crafts, and seeking the help of mental health professionals; as well as playing video games, watching TV, listening to audiobooks, caring for pets, cooking, walking or volunteering. These results indicate that addressing the youth mental health crisis may start by empowering youth to turn to already-accessible tools and resources to cope and build inner strength.

Every day, Crisis Text Line is seeing strangers supporting strangers during their time of need and helping them find their strength. Individuals who are looking to make a difference in peoples lives are welcome to join Crisis Text Lines network of volunteers.

Those seeking free, 24/7, confidential mental health support through Crisis Text Line can connect via text, web chat and WhatsApp in English and Spanish. To reach a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor, connect with us via web chat, text HELLO or 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp or text HOLA to 741741 or 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish.

The United in Empathy 2022 Report is available online at crisistextline.org/empathy.

About Crisis Text Line

Crisis Text Line is a nonprofit organization that provides free, 24/7, confidential high-quality text-based mental health support and crisis intervention in English and Spanish. Since its launch in 2013, Crisis Text Line has engaged in more than 8 million crisis conversations and trained over 59,000 volunteers to support people in their moments of need. Crisis Text Line is committed to creating an empathetic world where nobody feels alone. Individuals seeking confidential support can connect with us via text, web chat and WhatsApp. To be connected to a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor, text HELLO to 741741 or 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp or text HOLA to 741741 or 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish or connect with us via web chat . Visit Crisis Text Line on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . Additional information, including how to become a volunteer or how to support Crisis Text Line through donations or partnerships, is available at www.crisistextline.org .

Attachments
Dublin, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Cardiovascular Digital Solutions Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Service Type, By End-use, By Deployment, By Components, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022 - 2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Global Cardiovascular Digital Solutions Market size is expected to reach $128.1 billion by 2028, rising at a market growth of 4.8% CAGR during the forecast period.

Key Market Players

Apple, Inc.

General Electric Company

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Verily Life Sciences LLC (Alphabet, Inc.)

iRhythm Technologies, Inc.

Bardy Diagnostics, Inc. (Hill-Rom Holdings Inc) (Baxter International Inc.)

eviCore Healthcare (Express Scripts Holding Company) (Cigna Corporation)

AliveCor, Inc.

Cardiotrack

HeartFlow, Inc.

Cardiovascular digital solutions are the fusion and application of digital technologies like software, sensors, wearables, smartphones, artificial intelligence, and virtual healthcare solutions. In order to develop and offer effective healthcare solutions, digital healthcare solutions are being used. The most frequent cause of morbidity and mortality, cardiovascular (CVD) illnesses, necessitates a comprehensive multi-parameter examination beyond the ECG.



For the early detection, monitoring, and treatment of cardiac problems, digital solutions are crucial. This allows for more specialized and effective cardiac care. One of the main reasons propelling the expansion of the cardiovascular digital solutions market is the rise in the prevalence of cardiovascular disorders worldwide, as well as the quickening pace of healthcare technology internationally.



Inadequate or wrong food intake, inactivity, use of tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption are the biggest behavioral risk factors for cardiovascular diseases like heart disease and stroke. In addition, raised blood pressure, elevated blood glucose, elevated blood lipids, as well as being overweight, and obesity might be symptoms of behavioral risk factors in people. In primary care settings, these 'intermediate risk factors' can be assessed and show a higher risk of complications like heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.



There are other additional underlying causes of CVDs. These reflect the three main forces that are causing social, economic, and cultural change: urbanization, population aging, and globalization. Hereditary factors, stress, and poverty are other CVD predictors. In order to lower cardiovascular risk and stop strokes and heart attacks in persons with these illnesses, the pharmacological treatment for hypertension, diabetes, and excessive blood lipids is also required.



COVID-19 Impact Analysis



Patients with mild symptoms were required to consult online as part of the social distancing procedures. Additionally, it eased the strain on hospitals already overburdened with COVID-19 patient counts. The development of Medical IoT devices also helped patients maximize outpatient care and reduce follow-up visits. These devices could also be employed in an emergency. Additionally, the resource shortage encountered during the pandemic led to the development of value-based and competitive pricing models. Therefore, the pandemic had a favorable impact on the market.



Market Growth Factors

Rising use of cutting-edge treatment methods



New cardiovascular therapy alternatives are being developed, and the MedTech CVD industry is growing, owing to the adoption of cutting-edge treatment technologies like TAVR and 3D printing. Providers are looking for a wide range of therapeutic, diagnostic, and monitoring solutions that they can use to manage the patient journey.

These solutions should be empowered by the right technology, backed by research and a compelling value proposition, and made available at the appropriate time. This will propel the growth of the cardiovascular digital solutions market in the coming years.



Shifts in providers and healthcare delivery methods



There is mounting evidence that certain CVD initiatives centered on digital tools have benefited patients and physicians alike. For example, since devices may collect data via remote connectivity, digital health interventions for patients may result in fewer doctor visits.

Furthermore, digital solutions can be used as clinical decision-support tools by healthcare professionals who input patient data to produce therapy suggestions. Hence, the changing methods of healthcare delivery and availability of healthcare providers have substantiated the use of technology to cater to more patients in a shorter time, which has also boosted the growth prospects for the market.



Market Restraining Factor

Insufficiently qualified staff for clinical trials



According to the Association of Clinical Research Organizations, there is a particularly great need for clinical trial associates (CTA) and clinical research associates (CRA). Unfortunately, over the past ten years, the problem has worsened because neither manufacturers nor CROs has provided graduates with enough skill training to meet the needs of the industry's research.

This talent gap may hinder the adoption of innovative techniques and technology, which may have an adverse effect on the market for cardiovascular digital solutions in the years to come.

Scope of the Study

By Service Type

Unobtrusive Testing

CVD Health Informatics

Cardiac Rehab Programs

Others

By End-use

Hospitals & Clinics

Ambulatory Care Centers

Others

By Deployment

Cloud-Based

On-premise

By Components

Devices

Software

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gzxzvp

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
Pune, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Maximize Market Research, a global Healthcare market research firm has published competitive intelligence and market research report on the  Medical Suction Devices Market . The Medical Suction Devices Market size was valued at USD 865 Mn in 2022. The total Medical Suction Devices Market revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7 percent from 2023 to 2029, reaching USD 1275.09 Mn during the forecast period.



Market Size in 2022 USD 865 Mn Market Size in 2029 USD 1275.09 Mn CAGR 5.7 percent (2023-2029) Forecast Period 2023-2029 Base Year 2022 Number of Pages 278 No. of Tables 125 No. of Charts and Figures 115 Segment Covered By Type, End-User, Machine, Portability, Application, and Region Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, South America Report Coverage Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20222029, Market Dynamics, Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Key Trends, Competitive Landscape, Key Players Benchmarking, Competitive Analysis, MMR Competition Matrix, Competitive Leadership Mapping, Global Key Players Market Ranking Analysis.

Request For Free Sample Report : https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/187037

Medical Suction Devices Market Scope and Research Methodology

The objective of the report is to present a comprehensive analysis of the Medical Suction Devices Market. The Medical Suction Devices Market is segmented by Product Type, End-User, Distribution Channel, Application , and Packaging . The Medical Suction Devices Market report is a guide for investors that provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive benchmarking of major market players in the market by revenue, financial status, portfolio, growth strategies, and geographical presence.

Data for analysis of the Medical Suction Devices industry is collected by both primary and secondary research methods. The report is a detailed analysis of the Medical Suction Devices Market by country, regional and global presence. The Medical Suction Devices Market size was estimated through a bottom-up approach. The new entrants in Medical Suction Devices Market were researched for growth prospects and future business outlooks. Restraints, drivers, challenges, and opportunities are provided in detail in the Medical Suction Devices Market report.

Medical Suction Devices Market Overview

Medical suction devices are devices that are designed to clear the blockage in the internal respiratory organs caused by saliva, blood, or other secretion. It generally helps the patient to breathe smoothly and is operated by manual hand pumps or can be electrically operated or on batteries. Proper management of fluids is an important function of medical suction devices. These factors are expected to drive the demand for Medical Suction Devices.

Get a Sample Copy of the Report : https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/187037

The continued investment and research in medical suction devices driving the market growth

The growth in chronic pulmonary and respiratory diseases due to air, water, and another form of pollution needs emergency care within a few minutes. The continuous investment and research and developments by major Medical Suction Devices Key Players have been driving the market growth. Medical suction devices are required by the expanding global healthcare sector and will be used in clinical procedures like obstetrics, endoscopy, dentistry, and gastroenterology. Additionally, since the pandemic, there has been an increase in funding and understanding of the value of infrastructure development in the healthcare sector. These elements are anticipated to fuel the expansion of the market for medical suction devices.

North America is expected to hold a Significant Share of the Medical Suction Devices Market over the Forecast Period

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases in the United States and other countries in the region, North America is one of the major contributors to the markets growth. North America holds the greatest market share for medical suction devices in 2022, and it is predicted that during the forecast period (2023-2029), it would expand at a CAGR of 3.1%. Nearly USD 187.6 billion will be spent on healthcare in the United States in 2021. The growth of the medical suction devices industry has been fuelled by the transition from institutionalized healthcare to home healthcare and the rise in demand for small, portable suction devices.

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Medical Suction Devices Market Segmentation

By Type:

AC-powered Devices

Battery-powered Devices

Dual-powered Devices

Manually operated Devices

Based on Type AC-powered devices segment held the largest share in the Medical Suction Devices Market in 2022. The dual-powered devices segment is expected to hold the largest revenue share in the market during the forecast period (2023-2029). The increasing demand for suction devices at home is driving the growth of dual-powered suction devices. It offers a wide vacuum range, a wide operating and storage temperature range

By Machine

 Ordinary Electric Suction

 Artificial Abortion Electric Suction

 Gastric Lavage Electric Suction

By Portability

 Hand Handled Devices

 Wall Mounted Devices

By Application

 Airway Clearing

 Surgical

 Research and Diagnostics

By End User

 Hospital

 Home

 Clinics

 Pre-hospitals

 Others

Based on End-use The hospital segment held the largest share in the Medical Suction Devices Market and is expected to dominate the market. The growing healthcare infrastructure across the world with advanced medical equipment coupled with technologies such as big data, AI and ML driving the demand for easy-to-handle, safe and portable medical suction devices.

Medical Suction Devices Market Key Players include

 Allied Healthcare Products, Inc.

 MEDICOP d.o.o.

 Integra Biosciences AG

 Labconco Corporation

 Asahi Kasei Corporation

 Precision Medical, Inc.

 Amsino International, Inc.

 Medela AG

 ATMOS MedizinTechnik GmbH & Co. KG

 Laerdal Medical

 Drive Medical

 ZOLL Medical Corporation

 Welch Vaccum

 Amsino International Inc.

 Olympus Corporation

 SSCOR

 GPC Medical Ltd.

 Bharat Surgical Company

 Monarch Meditech

 Anand Medicaids Pvt. Ltd.

Get the Sample PDF of Report: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/187037

Key questions answered in the Medical Suction Devices Market are:

What is Medical Suction Devices?

What was the Medical Suction Devices Market size in 2021?

What is the expected Medical Suction Devices Market size by 2029?

What is the growth rate of the Medical Suction Devices Market?

Which are the factors expected to drive the Medical Suction Devices Market growth?

Which factors are expected to restrain the Medical Suction Devices Market growth?

Which segment dominated the Medical Suction Devices Market growth?

What is the demand pattern for the Medical Suction Devices Market?

Which region held the largest share in the Medical Suction Devices Market?

Who are the key players in the Medical Suction Devices Market?

Key Offerings:

Past Market Size and Competitive Landscape (2018 to 2022)

Past Pricing and price curve by region (2018 to 2022)

Market Size, Share, Size & Forecast by different segment | 20232029

Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities, and Key Trends by region

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Product Type, End-User, Distribution Channel, Application, and Packaging

Competitive Landscape  Profiles of selected key players by region from a strategic perspective Competitive landscape  Market Leaders, Market Followers, Regional player Competitive benchmarking of key players by region

PESTLE Analysis

PORTERs analysis

Value chain and supply chain analysis

Legal Aspects of business by region

Lucrative business opportunities with SWOT analysis

Recommendations

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by Samara Ashrat

A recently conducted study by Asian Confluence suggested that Northeast India and Bangladesh need to scale up their multi-modal connectivity, which would not only help the region to raise its competitiveness but also narrow the development gaps in the region. The study also suggested the creation of industrial value chains to create a win-win situation for all stakeholders in India and Bangladesh and Japanese companies in the region. Thats why Japan has proposed developing an industrial hub in Bangladesh with supply chains to the landlocked northeastern states of India. Bangladesh and India have already started to work together to bring synergy in trade facilitation and build express corridors for the transhipment and transit of goods from the Northeast Region to the Chattogram Port of Bangladesh. Tripura is set to become the Gateway of North East with access to Chittagong port of Bangladesh, just 70 kilometres from Sabroom in the northeastern state.





The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has constructed the vital bridge and the 1,476m stretch of approach roads, of which 1,193 m falls in the Indian territory and the remaining 283 m falls in the Bangladesh side. [Photo Credit: Tripura govt.]





Along with the gateway, Tripura can become the key to creating an industrial hub in northeast India and its supply chain in Bangladesh. There are so many ongoing connectivity projects between Tripura and Bangladesh. The industrial value chain would be created on the completion of these projects.





The Agartala-Akhaura International Railway Connectivity Project





The Agartala-Akhaura international railway connectivity project is one of India and Bangladeshs most prominent connectivity projects. Akhaura used to be the railway link for Agartala before Independence. In 2013, India and Bangladesh signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to revive the railway link. Over 88 per cent of the work on the Agartala-Akhaura international railway connectivity project is complete, and the remaining work is expected to be finished in the next five to six months. The 15-kilometre-long railway line would link Bangladeshs Akhaura through an international immigration station at Nischintapur along the India-Bangladesh border. With the completion of the project, the travel time between Agartala and Kolkata via Dhaka would reduce from 31 hours to 10 hours. When finished, it will run for 10.6 kilometres from Gangasagar, Bangladesh, to Nischintapur, India, and for 5.46 kilometres from Nischintapur to Indias Agartala railway station. The opening of the Agartala-Akhaura railway line would expand the range of economic contacts.





Moreover, India intends to build an integrated checkpoint and freight processing facility at Nischintapur, which serves as the Tripura junction for the Agartala-Akhaura train route. By using Dhaka as its hub instead of Guwahati, this train connection would cut the distance between Agartala and Kolkata travel time in half. As it would only cover 550 kilometres instead of 1,600, the 31-hour journey from Agartala to Kolkata will take just 10 hours. Four operational train connections between West Bengal and Western Bangladesh presently exist between India and Bangladesh: Petrapole-Benapole, Gede-Darshana, Radhikapur-Biral, and Singhabad-Rohanpur. The utilization of Nepali transit traffic is also informed by the final two. Those from Mizoram, which is 150 kilometres away, and those from Agartala will benefit from the current line.





Other Projects





In addition to the Agartala-Akhaura railway line, Tripura has a few more international connectivity projects linking it with Bangladesh, such as the Indo-Bangla Maitri Bridge in South Tripura and the inland waterways transport project in the Sepahijala district. A second Integrated Check Post (ICP) with Bangladesh is being set up at Sabroom in Tripura. After all the projects are commissioned, Tripura is expected to gain access to Bangladeshs Chittagong and Mongla ports, opening up new avenues for trade and commerce.





There are several ongoing infrastructure projects connecting Bangladesh and Tripura. One of the historic initiatives connecting Tripura and Bangladesh was the opening of MaitriSetu across the Feni River. After Ramgarh in Bangladesh and Sabroom in India are bound by the Maitri Bridge, Tripura would become the entry point to Southeast Asia. Just 74 kilometres separate this bridge from Chittagong Port.





The Feni bridge linking Sabroom, Tripura, with Chittagong, Bangladesh, and the Agartala-Akhaura train line are two connectivity projects that, when finished, would transform Tripura from a landlocked state into one that is well-connected. Tripura will improve its relationships and connections by building roads linking it to Thailand, Myanmar, and India.





With the completion of its new terminal this year, Tripuras Maharaja Bir Bikram airport will become the third international airport in the landlocked northeastern area. Once this airport is finished, flights will be between Agartala and Dhaka and other places like Chittagong and Sylhet. Pranay Verma, the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka, has lately shown interest in investing in new airports in Bangladesh to improve connectivity between the northeastern regions. Aviation travel will improve connections not just between Bangladesh, the Indian subcontinent, and Tripura but also between India and ASEAN nations.





Moreover, the power department of India is planning to set up Northeast Indias first solar power storage facility in Tripura. In addition to meeting the needs of the state, plans are also being made to export pollution-free, environmentally friendly electricity from this storage as per the needs of Bangladesh. Ratan Lal Nath, Minister for Power, Government of Tripura, said this in a press conference on the evening of April 1, 2023. Initially, the state government selected the Sabrum area of the South District. Because a special economic zone is being built here, it will be possible to export surplus electricity to Bangladesh by meeting the regions needs.





For Tripuras benefit





None of the industries would work in Tripura if it didnt create its supply chain in Bangladesh. And for creating supply chains, all those connectivity projects between Bangladesh and Tripura must get completed soon as Tripura is one of the main gateways to the northeastern region to India through Bangladesh. The dreams of people from Tripura to start business relations with Bangladesh will be bolstered after the completion of these projects. Tripura will reach a significant position in trade and commerce, and job opportunities will be created for unemployed youths and a new route for public and goods transport.





Samara Ashrat is a Ph.D. fellow at the University of Bucharest. Her areas of interest are South Asian Politics, Security, and the economy. She occasionally contributes to several newspaper and blog portals including The Observer Bangladesh, Dhaka Tribune, The Daily Ittefaq etc.
Philadelphia, PA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VSBLTY Groupe Technologies Corp. (OTCQB: VSBGF) (CSE: VSBY) (Frankfurt 5VS) (VSBLTY), a leading software provider of AI-driven security and retail analytics technology, today announced that, along with their Italian partner, H-Ventures, it has been working with local members of MIND to coordinate the May 9 Meeting of the Minds, a Roundtable on Retail Innovation as part of MIND Innovation Week May 8-13 at MIND in Milan, Italy. MIND (Milan Innovation District) is a one million square mile research hub where the worlds foremost thinkers and innovators meet to exchange ideas. MIND was created thanks to a public-private partnership between Lendlease, an international real estate group that is expert in the regeneration of urban areas, and Arexpo, urban development facilitators who are working to enhance and develop the entire site.

MIND Innovation Week will foster new ideas and collaboration within the retail sector. Attendees will explore the shape of retail in the post-pandemic world, as well as the opportunities and challenges the industry faces. The roundtable discussions will cover such topics as Transformational Change, Bricks and Clicks Integration, Store as a Medium, and the Role of the Metaverse in Retail. The May 9 proceedings will be hosted by David Roth, CEO, Chairman of Brand2 and CEO of The Store WPP, EMEA & Asia, who will also provide a global overview of the retail industry. Regional retail innovation leaders are expected to participate in the event to expand their business networks and explore potential partnerships.

To register to attend in person or online: https://www.eventbrite.it/e/meeting-of-the-minds-a-roundtable-on-retail-innovation-tickets-616504019117

A presentation by Jay Hutton, Founder & CEO of VSBLTY, will explain how Store as a Medium is reshaping the in-store experience for consumers and enabling brands to more effectively inform and motivate patrons right at point-of-sale while providing a new, important revenue stream for retailers. In addition to Hutton, other May 9 presenters include Massimo Volpe, Co-founder of Retail Hub, and Giacomo Cavalli, MIND Relationship Manager.

Following the presentations there will be two roundtable discussions. Panelists for the first, which will focus on an international view, will include Leonardo Achille, Retail Channel Director, Synlab Italia; Fabrizio Zichichi, Project Director & Managing Director of Lendlease; and Massimo Albani, B2C Sales Strategy, Wind 3. The second will have an Italian theme and will feature Maurizio Mangione, Country Manager, EG Group; Francesco Pinto, Chairman, Yamamay; Pietro Nicastro, CEO & Founder, Lowengrube; and Andrea Riva, CEO, Neoapotek. The event will conclude with a cocktail party/networking session.

The public is being encouraged to participate in Innovation Week as it is a festival with six days of over 60 events, workshops, talks and shows. Academics and researchers from around the world will join institutions and companies in discussing many of the major issues of our time. The new annual format is dedicated to the frontiers of life sciences and urban living. From medicine to biotechnology, from genomics to clinical research, from restoration to technology, MIND seeks solutions for green mobility, energy and environmental sustainability of the cities of the future.

A Store as a Medium pioneer, VSBLTYs technology provides enhanced customer engagement and audience measurement using machine learning and computer vision. Its industry leading VisionCaptor and DataCaptor software combine motion graphics and interactive brand messaging with cutting-edge computer vision measurement and insights. VSBLTYs AI driven software Vector provides enhanced facial recognition that is crucial to strengthening today's security requirements when recognizing weapons or suspicious persons in a crowd.

Investor Relations

Harbor Access

Jonathan Paterson, 475-477-9401

Jonathan.Paterson@Harbor-Access.com

Graham Farrell, +1-416-842-9003

Graham.Farrell@Harbor - Access.com

CONTACT: Linda Rosanio, 609-472-0877

lrosanio@vsblty.net

About VSBLTY (http://vsblty.net/)

Headquartered in Philadelphia, VSBLTY (OTCQB: VSBGF) (CSE: VSBY) (Frankfurt: 5VS) (OTC: VSBGF) (VSBLTY) is the world leader in Proactive Digital Display, which transforms retail and public spaces as well as place-based media networks with SaaS-based audience measurement and security software that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning. Its proprietary technology effectively integrates with other digital retail solutions, including QR codes and mobile applications. The firm is also recognized for its leadership role in the growing Store as a Medium movement that enables brands to reach customers when and where buying decisions are being made while producing a new revenue stream for retailers.

About MIND (https://www.mindmilano.it/en/)

The Milano Innovation District is the first innovation district in the world designed to be zero carbon and the only district completely powered by renewable energy in Italy. With an area of 1,000,000 square meters, it was born from the redevelopment of the area that hosted Expo 2015. Thanks to the public-private partnership between Lendlease, a leading international real estate group, and Arexpo, the company responsible for enhancing and developing the entire site, the district now hosts 25 entities including private companies and important public institutions.

Today 2,000 employees work daily in MIND, not including the users of the IRCSS Galeazzi Sant'Ambrogio and the over 250 students and teachers at the ITS Campus. When fully operational, the district will host more than 60,000 people a day. By the end of the year, another 20 entities are expected to join and the regeneration of another 12,000 square meters of the Expo 2015 buildings is predicted.
Miami, FL, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- One of Miamis most renowned chefs Chef Bee (Piyarat Potha Arreeratn) and young entrepreneur Charlie Rothkopf have announced the official start date for member enrollment into Miami Sushi Club. Beginning May 10, foodies and art aficionados can register to become members of the exclusive, NFT-only sushi club, which will provide them with unlimited access to a trendy new sushi restaurant opening soon in South Florida.



The entrance to the restaurant will require purchasing an NFT, a non-fungible token, which can be obtained by becoming a member of the Miami Sushi Club. Each NFT will represent a membership and will be sold as a limited edition digital art piece. Two tiers of NFTs are available to sushi lovers - Miami Sushi Warriors for $1,000 and MSC Omakase for $2,500. The membership will grant access to the restaurants main dining room, the cocktail lounge, as well as numerous events and pop-ups.

This absolutely new concept is going to be of interest to digital art collectors and to foodies! I am a sushi enthusiast myself, and I am thrilled to announce the official launch of our project. Super excited to share our vision with guests, said Miami Sushi Club co-founder Charlie Rothkopf.

The venue will be located in a trendy spot at 14841 Biscayne Blvd in North Miami. Chef Bee said the restaurants menu will include not only traditional, high-grade sushi items, but also some newly created dishes. The team says Miami Sushi Club will be an immersive dining experience that blends art and food, with a sleek and modern design that reflects the sophistication of the menu.

Miami Sushi Club plans to create a strong and lasting appeal in the local restaurant community by presenting and implementing a completely unorthodox concept. By adding new technologies and art to the mix, Chef Bee and Charlie Rothkopf are expanding the horizon and setting up a new high standard of fine dining in South Florida.

You can visit Miami Sushi Clubs page to pre-register and purchase your access-granting NFT beginning May 10, 2023. Payment options include credit cards and Ethereum.









Chef Bee

About Miami Sushi Club

Miami Sushi Club represents a bold and innovative approach to the restaurant industry aiming to inspire entrepreneurs to explore new ways of connecting with customers in the digital age. By combining his passion for sushi with cutting-edge technology, entrepreneur Charlie Rothkopf has created a unique dining experience to leave a lasting impression on anyone who is lucky enough to experience it.

Media contact:

Robert Penington

Robert@thronepr.com
San Diego, CA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last week, Representative Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA), Chair of the Congressional Fusion Caucus, visited General Atomics (GA) to tour the DIII-D National Fusion Facility and GAs inertial fusion fabrication facilities. Staff members from the offices of Representatives Beyer, Darrell Issa (R-CA), and Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) also joined the visit.

General Atomics is a globally recognized leader in the advancement of fusion science, research, and technology, and we were thrilled to have this opportunity to showcase our capabilities to Rep. Beyer, said Dr. Anantha Krishnan, Senior Vice President of the Energy Group. We are very appreciative that he took his valuable time to come see the efforts GA is making to push the boundaries of magnetic and inertial fusion research and development.

I was grateful to visit General Atomics facilities and see the great work on both magnetic confinement and inertial fusion technologies that their scientists are contributing to the fusion space. DIII-D, the Inertial Fusion Laboratories, and the Magnet Technologies Center each demonstrate the power of collaboration across industry, national labs, university researchers, and even nations, said Rep. Beyer.

DIII-D National Fusion Facility

The visit began at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility, an Office of Science user facility operated by GA on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy. DIII-Ds mission is to pioneer the science and innovative technologies that will enable the development of fusion as a clean energy source. As the largest magnetic fusion research facility in the United States and one of the most flexible tokamaks in the world, DIII-D runs innovative experiments and research campaigns that cannot be conducted anywhere else.

Fusion is our best chance at making affordable, safe, carbon-free electricity, and the people working at this facility are dedicating their lives to advancing fusion science for the world. I am grateful that Rep. Beyer and his staff made the trip to see us in action, said Dr. Richard Buttery, Director of the DIII-D National Fusion Facility.

The DIII-D machine is a tokamak, which uses powerful electromagnets to shape and confine plasma. To achieve fusion conditions relevant for energy production, DIII-Ds plasma must be heated to temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsiusapproximately 10 times the temperature at the center of the sun. At such extremely high temperatures, and under enormous pressures created by the electromagnets, hydrogen isotopes fuse together to create helium and release energy.

While at DIII-D, the delegation received an overview of the facility and learned how its research team is supporting the goals of the Decadal Vision for Commercial Fusion Energy. Announced in March 2022, the Decadal Vision accelerates the timeframe for deploying the first generation of fusion pilot plants by the early 2030s.



Inertial Fusion Technologies Laboratories

Following the visit to DIII-D, the group toured GAs inertial fusion laboratories, where they learned about GAs participation in the science-based stockpile stewardship program and its contributions to the ground-breaking fusion ignition achieved at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in December 2022.

The recent achievement at NIF was the result of decades of hard work, and GA is proud to have played a role, said Mike Farrell, Vice President of Inertial Fusion Technologies. The bar has been raised, and we are now working to further Decembers ignition success.

General Atomics is a longstanding partner in the DOE National Nuclear Security Administration's research in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF), which is aimed at achieving a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent without underground testing by producing thermonuclear burn conditions in the laboratory.

During the tour of the ICF laboratories, the delegation observed the processes required for supporting the ICF mission, including advanced manufacturing, precision metrology, and cutting-edge characterization methods. Rep. Beyer engaged with GAs skilled team of scientists and technicians and leaned about the companys role in developing engineers, technicians, and other critical roles for the fusion workforce.



Looking Ahead: Fusion Pilot Plant and Workforce Development

The visit continued with discussions focused on GAs Fusion Pilot Plant (FPP) concept and the need to develop a robust fusion workforce.

GAs concept utilizes a compact steady-state system, an approach that has been well established and refined over decades of research and development and would maximize efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and increase the lifetime of the facility, said Wayne Solomon, Vice-President of Magnetic Fusion Energy.

Dr. Brian Grierson, Director of GAs FPP Hub, provided an overview of GAs concept for an FPP, which is applying its decades of combined expertise in tokamak operations, plasma theory, advanced manufacturing, and proprietary technology development to deliver a credible and cost-competitive fusion pilot plant in the 2030s.

GA has been in the fusion business for over 60 years, said Grierson. Our FPP concept applies everything we have discovered, built, and refined as we look ahead to the widespread deployment of commercial fusion energy.

Zabrina Johal, Senior Director of Strategic Development, continued with an overview of GAs engagements with students and graduates to help develop the future workforce.

As we look ahead to the first generation of fusion energy plants, we see not only a unique opportunity to revolutionize the way the world gets its energy, but a chance to develop a new industry. This is the time to begin, whether it is helping to develop new talent in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) or engaging with communities that will benefit most from a new era of clean electricity, said Johal.

ITER Central Solenoid (CS) Manufacturing

The final stop on the tour was at GAs Magnet Technologies Center, where it is fabricating multiple components for the international ITER experiment, including the worlds most powerful pulsed superconducting electromagnet. ITER is an unprecedented scientific collaboration of 35 nations that will prove the feasibility of fusion. When completed and assembled, the 5-story, 1,000-ton magnet will drive 15 million amperes of electrical current to shape and control ITERs fusion reaction.

Each module is 7 feet tall, 14 feet wide, and is composed of 3.5 miles of superconducting cable. It takes approximately two and a half years to produce, test, and ship a single module. ITER has received the first two CS modules, and GA will ship the next module in the coming weeks. GA expects to complete the fabrication and shipment of all seven modules, including one acting as a spare, by early 2025.

The ITER CS is one of the most complex magnet programs ever undertaken. Pulsed superconducting magnets of this power and scale have never been made before, and when ITER is powered on, this will be its beating heart, said John Smith, Senior Director of Engineering and Projects. Congress has been a longstanding champion of the ITER program. We are really pleased that members of the Fusion Caucus were here to see the next module being prepared for shipment and delivery.

GA is manufacturing the CS modules under the direction of the US ITER project, managed by the DOEs Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Most of the funds appropriated by Congress for ITER are used to support high-tech jobs and manufacturing in the United States by funding in-kind contributions like the CS.

During the visit, the delegation learned about the process for fabricating each module and observed the delicate process for testing and preparing the next modules for shipment.



About General Atomics: Since the dawn of the atomic age, General Atomics innovations have advanced the state of the art across the full spectrum of science and technology  from nuclear energy and defense to medicine and high-performance computing. Behind a talented global team of scientists, engineers, and professionals, GAs unique experience and capabilities continue to deliver safe, sustainable, economical, and innovative solutions to meet growing global demands.

About the DIII-D National Fusion Facility. DIII-D is the largest magnetic fusion research facility in the U.S. and has been the site of numerous pioneering contributions to the development of fusion energy science. DIII-D continues the drive toward practical fusion energy with critical research conducted in collaboration with more than 600 scientists representing over 100 institutions worldwide. As a U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science User Facility, participation in DIII-D research is open to all interested parties. For more information, visit www.ga.com/diii-d.

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Reno, NV, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The combined use of satellite and climate data has rapidly become critical for scientists and resource managers seeking to accurately assess changes in land cover and land use over time and across space. Unfortunately, processing such vast amounts of data can be time and cost-prohibitive, which is why researchers teamed up with Google and federal agencies to create ClimateEngine.org. Climate Engines innovative web application allows scientists, natural resource agencies, and other users to create maps and time series plots that integrate satellite and climate data, providing an indispensable  and free  tool for visualizing complex datasets.

If youre trying to study how climate and natural resource management affects the environment, nothing beats the combination of maps and time series for unpacking the data, says Justin Huntington, Ph.D., Climate Engine project lead and research professor of hydrology at DRI.

First launched in 2016 at the White House Water Summit, ClimateEngine.org is being re-launched with new datasets, support resources, and functionality to increase the capabilities and user-friendliness of the site. Interactive maps and data visualizations produced using decades of satellite data have been a cornerstone of the ClimateEngine.org app, and the new updates will make it easier than ever to use satellite, climate, and forecast data together. These enhanced resources will help Climate Engines diverse user community  which includes 12,000+ registered users from public agencies, non-profits, research institutions, and tribal governments  to better use the app to produce charts and maps of environmental indicators such as drought, fire risk, vegetation condition, and agricultural water use.

As researchers trying to process and visualize many Earth observations together, we understand how difficult it can be to work with these large and disjointed datasets, Huntington says. So, we wanted to create a tool that would allow researchers and practitioners to spend more time making discoveries and impact using the best available science.

The Climate Engine app is unique in that it enables users to visualize and analyze vast amounts of data without the need to code, and results can be downloaded, shared, and recreated with a simple link. It overcomes the computational barriers many research institutions and public agencies face when using large datasets by using Google Earth Engines parallel cloud computing platform.

Notable datasets recently added include: 1) ERA5 Ag, which enables calculation of global drought, snowpack, and water demand indicators in near real-time; 2) Rangeland Analysis Platform, a 37-year Landsat dataset of vegetation cover and biomass production for the continental U.S.; and 3) OpenET monthly evapotranspiration, which provides Landsat satellite maps of vegetation water use at field-scale across the Western U.S.

As one of Climate Engines primary partners, NOAAs National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) uses the Climate Engine Application Programming Interface (API) to automatically create drought datasets shared on Drought.gov.

Climate Engine is a powerful cloud solution that has enabled NOAA to rapidly create and disseminate critical climate and drought information in ways that were previously impossible, says Steve Ansari, physical scientist with NOAAs National Centers for Environmental Information. The initial Faculty Research Award by Google, followed by funding from NOAA-NIDIS and other federal agencies, has led to a very fruitful and rewarding public-private partnership. This partnership will continue to produce new datasets, processing capabilities, stakeholder engagement, and web application and API enhancements to advance research, drought monitoring, and early warning.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) was also an early supporter of ClimateEngine.org due to the agencys need to adopt a more data-driven approach to monitoring drought and informing grazing decisions. BLM has positioned itself as a leader in monitoring of federal lands through its investment in ground and satellite-based vegetation monitoring. Among other contributions, the agency supported the development of field-scale trends of drought and vegetation conditions within the Climate Engine web application. BLM is continuing to support trainings and integration of the newest datasets into Climate Engine to provide resource managers with the latest information and science on drought and vegetation conditions.

Moving forward this summer, the ClimateEngine.org team will be adding even more features and functionality to the app, further expanding access to the API, and hosting several public agency webinars and in-person workshops across the Western U.S.

ClimateEngine.org is a collaboration between DRI, University of Merced, Google, and federal partners. The science team includes: DRI researchers Justin Huntington, Britta Daudert, Jody Hansen, Thomas Ott, Kristen OShea, Charles Morton, Dan McEvoy, and Eric Jensen, as well as UC Merced researchers Katherine Hegewisch and John Abatzaglou. Find out more about the initiative, partnerships, and updates at ClimateEngine.org and Twitter @ClimateEngOrg, and see the initiatives peer-reviewed publication.

###

About DRI

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Since 1959, DRIs research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans impact on the environment to the environments impact on humans. DRIs impactful science and inspiring solutions support Nevadas diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. For more information, please visit www.dri.edu.

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RADNOR, Pa., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed against Norfolk Southern Corporation (Norfolk Southern) (NYSE: NSC). The action charges Norfolk Southern with violations of the federal securities laws, including omissions and fraudulent misrepresentations relating to the companys business, operations, and prospects. As a result of Norfolk Southerns materially misleading statements and omissions to the public, Norfolk Southerns investors have suffered significant losses.



CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR NORFOLK SOUTHERN LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/norfolk-southern-corporation?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=nsc&mktm=r

CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERE

LEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: MAY 15, 2023

CLASS PERIOD: OCTOBER 28, 2020 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2023

CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:

Jonathan Naji, Esq. at (484) 270-1453 or via email at info@ktmc.com

Kessler Topaz is one of the worlds foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.

NORFOLK SOUTHERNS ALLEGED MISCONDUCT

For several years leading up to the beginning of the Class Period, Norfolk Southern took a number of measures which put profits and executive compensation over safety. For example, in October 2018, Norfolk Southern adopted Precision Scheduled Railroading or PSR which was purportedly aimed at producing better service at a lower cost. In actuality, the company sought to increase revenues by cutting operating costs including reducing staff, running fewer, heavier, faster trains and optimizing the companys networks in order to increase efficiency. Norfolk Southern also began tying executive compensation to achieving PSR goals. For example, in 2021, multiple Norfolk Southern executives received millions of dollars in cash bonuses for reducing costs by achieving record performance for train length and weight. Industry critics have warned that this type of compensation system incentivizes executives to cut costs at the expense of safety and also leads to longer and more dangerous trains which have greater damage done, greater, larger pileups, fires and so on. At the same time, Norfolk Southern and its lobbyists played a key role in defeating an Obama-era safety rule that was used following a number of oil train accidents, including the ECP Brake Rule which was ultimately repealed in 2018.

On February 3, 2023, a Norfolk Southern Railway Company general merchandise freight train derailed 38 railcars in East Palestine, Ohio, leaving behind what the Associated Press called a mangled and charred mass of boxcars and flames. The derailed equipment included 11 tank cars carrying hazardous materials that subsequently ignited, fueling fires that damaged an additional 12 non-derailed railcars.

On February 6, 2023, responders engaged in a controlled detonation and burn of the vinyl chloride, spewing massive volumes of chemicals into the vicinity. The chemicals released from the derailment entered the air and water of the surrounding residential areas, the closest of which were only 1,000 feet from the site of the accident. Following this news, the price of Norfolk Southern stock fell on February 6, 2023  down $5.66 per share from its closing price on Friday, February 3, 2023.

Then, on February 8, 2023, after lifting a previously issued evacuation order, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine stated that Norfolk Southern was the one[] who created the problem. Its their liability. Theyre the ones who ought to pay for it. Following their return, numerous residents reported hazardous air quality and other health and environmental concerns. Following this news, the price of Norfolk Southern stock fell on February 9, 2023, closing at $238.98 per share  down $7.64 per share from its closing price of $246.62 per share on February 8, 2023.

Thereafter, Norfolk Southerns stock price continued to drop in response to several other reports and public officials who spoke out about Norfolk Southerns liability for all of the harm and damage it had caused.

On March 4, 2023, another Norfolk Southern freight train derailed near Springfield, Ohio. Two days later, on March 6, 2023, Norfolk Southern announced a 6-part plan to improve operational safety. Following this news, the price of Norfolk Southern stock fell again on March 6 and March 7, 2023, closing at $215.18 per share  down $13.21 per share from its closing price of $228.39 on Friday, March 3, 2023.

WHAT CAN I DO?

Norfolk Southern investors may, no later than May 15, 2023, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Norfolk Southern investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. The class action complaint against Norfolk Southern, captioned Bucks County Employees Retirement System v. Norfolk Southern Corporation, et al. and docketed under 23-cv-0982, is filed in the United States District Court for Southern District of Ohio (Eastern Division) before the Honorable Michael H. Watson.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE

WHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?

A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.

ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP

Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com.

CONTACT:

Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP

Jonathan Naji, Esq.

280 King of Prussia Road

Radnor, PA 19087

(484) 270-1453

info@ktmc.com
TORONTO, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- McEwen Mining Inc. (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX) today reported its first quarter (Q1) results for the period ended March 31st, 2023.



This quarter we completed a series of large financing transactions involving shares of our McEwen Copper subsidiary, which has increased the market value attributable to our copper business to $550 million (for 100%) from $257 million at the conclusion of the prior financing round in August 2022. As 52% owner, McEwen Mining shareholders are benefitting from this value accretion, which validates the strategy we set out in July 2021 to surface value from Los Azules by funding it independently, said Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner. Our 100% owned precious metal mines generated a gross profit this quarter, although McEwen Copper expenses obscures our improved performance on a net basis. We continue to invest in exploration as the most cost-effective means to extend the life of our operations with positive results.

Financial Results

Notice to reader: Under US GAAP, McEwen Mining consolidates 100% of the accounts of its wholly-owned and majority owned subsidiaries in its reported financial results, including McEwen Copper. Entities over which we exert significant influence but do not control, such as Minera Santa Cruz S.A. (MSC), are presented as an equity investment on our balance sheet.

Our gross profit in Q1 was $4.4 million and our cash gross profit(1) was $11.3 million, compared to a gross loss of $6.0 million and cash gross loss of $2.3 million in Q1 2022. The increase in gross profit and cash gross profit directly resulted from improvements in productivity across our Fox Complex and Gold Bar mine operations.

Adjusted net loss(1) was $6.4 million, or $0.14 per share in Q1, compared to an adjusted net loss of $13.1 million, or $0.28 per share in Q1 2022. Adjusted net income or loss is a new non-GAAP financial measure intended to provide readers with a metric to evaluate our 100% owned precious metal business, excluding McEwen Copper (52%) and MSC (49%), which owns the San Jose mine.

We reported a consolidated net loss of $43.1 million, or $0.91 per share in Q1, compared to a net loss of $20.7 million, or $0.45 per share in Q1 2022. The largest contributor to our net loss was $31.9 million spent on exploration at our Los Azules project, which we expensed under US GAAP. We also incurred $5.9 million in exploration expenses at our Fox Complex and Gold Bar mine operations.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Consolidated cash and equivalents increased to $190.8 million(2) at the end of Q1 with the completion of a primary and secondary offering of common shares in McEwen Copper. These transactions brought in 30 billion Argentine Pesos from FCA Argentina (a subsidiary of Stellantis) and $30 million from Nuton (a Rio Tinto venture).

McEwen Mining received $47.5 million in available funds from the secondary sale of 8.7% of McEwen Copper, which will be used to reduce our senior secured debt, for project development spending and general corporate purposes. The balance of the funds raised from the primary issuance will be used by McEwen Copper for Los Azules project spending, predominantly drilling and other feasibility-oriented work programs to advance the project towards an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) in Q2 2023 and a Feasibility Study by the end of 2024.

Total debt was $65 million at the end of Q1. Management intends to reduce this amount by $25 million through the repayment in full of the portion of the senior secured credit facility owed to Sprott Lending.

Gold & Silver Production

Production from our three operating mines was 30,400 gold equivalent ounces (GEOs) (3) in Q1, compared to 25,200 GEOs in Q1 2022. Production guidance remains 150,000-170,000 GEOs for 2023.

Individual Mine Performance (See Table 1):

Fox performed well in the quarter and achieved its budgeted production at costs in-line with our guidance for the year. This is a significant improvement over Q1 last year when the mine struggled with effects of the pandemic and equipment failures. The Fox teams diligent efforts have resulted in much improved operating performance and cash generation.

Gold Bar continued to ramp-up mining from the Gold Bar South deposit in Q1, and successfully placed 15,000 contained gold ounces on the heap leach pad. Extreme snow and rainfall in the southwestern United States this winter resulted in flooding around Gold Bar, temporarily restricting access to the mine. Despite these challenges the Gold Bar team kept costs under control and remained focused on delivering ore to the heap leach pad and production is steadily increasing. Mining resumed at the Pick pit in April, which will continue to add gold inventory to the heap leach pad, contributing to the increase of production in the balance of the year.

San Jose usually has a lower production in the beginning of the year because of holidays closure and a planned annual shutdown for maintenance during Q1. This quarters production was additionally hindered by negative grade reconciliation to the mine model, which is attributed to variability around the margins of the mined veins. From a financial perspective, lower production in Q1 was offset by higher than budgeted realized gold and silver prices, which allowed the San Jose team to adjust their plans for 2023 by accelerating development and definition drilling to access new mining areas. McEwen management visited San Jose in April to review the 2023 plan and exploration activities.

Exploration

Exploration results from flow-through funded drilling at the Fox Complex were published in a separate press release on May 8th; drilling will continue during the rest of the year, focusing on prospective zones at the Stock property and the Grey Fox property.

Infill and exploration results from Los Azules were published on January 26th, March 6th, April 5th, and May 5th. Drilling at Los Azules is expected to continue until the end of May and then resume in October, after the South American winter.

Gold Bar exploration activities were focused on defining the boundaries of our oxide resources at the Pick deposit, and on testing the Benmark target, located immediately southwest of the leach pad. Drilling at the Cabin South target is expected to be underway shortly. If results are successful in these areas, they each have potential to positively impact the mine plan in the near-term.

San Joses drilling programs to define additional resources and reserves have a long history of success due to a high vein density, aided by good geophysical response from hidden veins. Exploration drilling to discover and extend veins is occurring in several areas with success to the North of the mine, where two potentially economic veins (Maura NW and Maura SW) are returning good results. Drilling at the Telken target in the South of the property, and adjacent to Newmonts Cerro Negro mine, is planned for Q3.

McEwen Copper

We own a 52% interest in McEwen Copper Inc., which holds a 100% interest in the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina, and the Elder Creek exploration project in Nevada, USA.

On February 23, 2023, we closed an ARS $30 billion investment by FCA Argentina S.A., a subsidiary of Stellantis N.V., and on March 15, 2023, we closed a $30 million investment by Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto Venture and existing McEwen Copper shareholder. Subsequent to these transactions Stellantis and Nuton each own 14.2% of McEwen Copper.

During Q1, McEwen Copper spent $31.9 million to advance a major drilling campaign involving up to 15 rigs, ongoing road maintenance and improvements, hyperspectral scanning of the entire drill core library, technical studies necessary for the updated PEA, environmental baseline work, project optimization and trade-off studies including renewable power supplies and mining methods, and metallurgical test work.

On April 14, 2023, the Los Azules Environmental Impact Report for Exploitation was submitted by McEwen Copper to the Argentinian authorities for review.

Drilling at the Elder Creek project conducted by Kennecott Exploration Company, a subsidiary of Rio Tinto, is expected to begin in May. Kennecott has the option to earn a 60% interest in Elder Creek by investing $18 million over a maximum of seven years.

Management Conference Call

Management will discuss our Q1 financial results and project developments and follow with a question and answer session. Questions can be asked directly by participants over the phone during the webcast.

Tuesday



May 9th, 2023

at 11:00 AM EDT

Toll Free (US & Canada): (888) 330-2398 Outside US & Canada: (240) 789-2709 Conference ID Number: 67121 Event Registration Link: https://conferencingportals.com/event/ZSafhHZi Webcast Link: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/775071696

An archived replay of the webcast will be available approximately 2 hours following the conclusion of the live event. Access the replay on the Companys media page at https://www.mcewenmining.com/media.

Table 1 below provides production and cost results for Q1, with comparative results from Q1 2022 and our guidance range for 2023.

Q1 Full Year 2023

Guidance Range



2022 2023 Consolidated Production Gold (oz) 20,850 25,900 123,000-139,000 Silver (oz) 335,500 381,200 2,300,000-2,600,000 GEOs(3) 25,200 30,400 150,000-170,000 Gold Bar Mine, Nevada GEOs 6,300 6,500 42,000-48,000 Cash Costs/GEO $2,284 $1,491 $1,400 AISC/GEO $2,633 $1,725 $1,680 Fox Complex, Canada GEOs(1) 7,700 12,700 42,000-48,000 Cash Costs/GEO $1,193 $1,088 $1,000 AISC/GEO $1,729 $1,311 $1,320 San Jose Mine, Argentina (49%) Gold production (oz)(4) 6,450 6,700 39,000-43,000 Silver production (oz)(4) 335,500 381,200 2,300,000-2,600,000 GEOs 10,700 11,200 66,000-74,000 Cash Costs/GEO $1,589 $1,800 $1,250 AISC/GEO $2,103 $2,234 $1,550

Notes:

Cash gross profit, cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs (AISC) per ounce, and adjusted net income or loss and adjusted net income or loss per share are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized definition under U.S. GAAP. For definition of the non-GAAP measures see "Non-GAAP- Financial Measures" section in this press release; for the reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures to the closest U.S. GAAP measures, see the Management Discussion and Analysis for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, filed on Edgar and SEDAR. On our balance sheet the Argentine Pesos held by McEwen Copper are converted to US dollars at the official exchange rate (209ARS/USD on March 31st). 'Gold Equivalent Ounces' are calculated based on a gold to silver price ratio of 84:1 for Q1 2023 and 78:1 for Q1 2022. 2023 production guidance is calculated based on 85:1 gold to silver price ratio. Represents the portion attributable to us from our 49% interest in the San Jose Mine.

Technical Information

The technical content of this news release related to financial results, mining and development projects has been reviewed and approved by William (Bill) Shaver, P.Eng., COO of McEwen Mining and a Qualified Person as defined by SEC S-K 1300 and the Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects."

Reliability of Information Regarding San Jose

Minera Santa Cruz S.A., the owner of the San Jose Mine, is responsible for and has supplied to the Company all reported results from the San Jose Mine. McEwen Minings joint venture partner, a subsidiary of Hochschild Mining plc, and its affiliates other than MSC do not accept responsibility for the use of project data or the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING NON-GAAP MEASURES

In this release, we have provided information prepared or calculated according to United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP), as well as provided some non-U.S. GAAP ("non-GAAP") performance measures. Because the non-GAAP performance measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by U.S. GAAP, they may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.

Cash Costs and All-in Sustaining Costs

Cash costs consist of mining, processing, on-site general and administrative costs, community and permitting costs related to current operations, royalty costs, refining and treatment charges (for both dore and concentrate products), sales costs, export taxes and operational stripping costs, and exclude depreciation and amortization. All-in sustaining costs consist of cash costs (as described above), plus accretion of retirement obligations and amortization of the asset retirement costs related to operating sites, sustaining exploration and development costs, sustaining capital expenditures, and sustaining lease payments. Both cash costs and all-in sustaining costs are divided by the gold equivalent ounces sold to determine cash costs and all-in sustaining costs on a per ounce basis. We use and report these measures to provide additional information regarding operational efficiencies on an individual mine basis, and believe that these measures provide investors and analysts with useful information about our underlying costs of operations. A reconciliation to production costs applicable to sales, the nearest U.S. GAAP measure is provided in McEwen Mining's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Cash Gross Profit

Cash gross profit is a non-GAAP financial measure and does not have any standardized meaning. We use cash gross profit to evaluate our operating performance and ability to generate cash flow; we disclose cash gross profit as we believe this measure provides valuable assistance to investors and analysts in evaluating our ability to finance our ongoing business and capital activities. The most directly comparable measure prepared in accordance with GAAP is gross profit. Cash gross profit is calculated by adding depletion and depreciation to gross profit. A reconciliation to gross profit, the nearest U.S. GAAP measure is provided in McEwen Mining's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Adjusted Net Income or Loss and Adjusted Net Income or Loss Per Share

Adjusted net income or loss is a non-GAAP financial measure and does not have any standardized meaning. We use adjusted net income or loss to evaluate our operating performance and ability to generate cash flow from our wholly-owned operations in production; we disclose this metric as we believe this measure provides valuable assistance to investors and analysts in evaluating our ability to finance our precious metal operations and capital activities separately from our copper operations. The most directly comparable measure prepared in accordance with GAAP is net income or loss. Adjusted net income or loss is calculated by adding back McEwen Copper and MSCs income or loss impacts to our consolidated net income or loss.

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, including "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements and information expressed, as at the date of this news release, McEwen Mining Inc.'s (the "Company") estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results. Forward-looking statements and information are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies, and there can be no assurance that such statements and information will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, political, economic, social and security risks associated with foreign operations, the ability of the Company to receive or receive in a timely manner permits or other approvals required in connection with operations, risks associated with the construction of mining operations and commencement of production and the projected costs thereof, risks related to litigation, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves, foreign exchange volatility, foreign exchange controls, foreign currency risk, and other risks. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information included herein, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See McEwen Mining's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2023, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the caption "Risk Factors", for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information regarding the Company. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

The NYSE and TSX have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by management of McEwen Mining Inc.

ABOUT MCEWEN MINING

McEwen Mining is a gold and silver producer with operations in Nevada, Canada, Mexico and Argentina. In addition, it owns approximately 52% of McEwen Copper which owns the large, advanced stage Los Azules copper project in Argentina. The Companys goal is to improve the productivity and life of its assets with the objective of increasing its share price and providing a yield. Rob McEwen, Chairman and Chief Owner, has personal investment in the company of US$220 million. His annual salary is US$1.

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Phoenix, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Phoenix, Arizona -

Small Biz Marketing AZ .com, a company based in Phoenix, AZ, has announced that they can provide SEO experts who are Google Ads certified near me to help local businesses use location-specific marketing to boost their customer base in their area. Google Ads offers a very effective method of generating leads for a business, particularly if it is service-based like a coffee shop or restaurant, that wants to reach out to customers within their local area. Their team members are experts in generating high-quality leads with the use of Google AdWords or Google Ads.

A spokesperson for Small Biz Marketing AZ .com says, Google Ads is the process of identifying and attracting potential customers for your businesss products or services. It is one of the best and most cost-effective methods of online advertising. The process involves creating and promoting ads that appear on the search engines results pages when people are searching for a product or service similar to yours. These ads can be used to target specific keywords, age groups, or locations. Unlike traditional methods, Google Ads allows you to pay only when a user clicks on your ad and converts into a lead. It also provides an excellent way to build brand awareness. This is a great strategy for small businesses or new companies that are just starting out. It is important to test different keywords and phrases to see what works best for your business and the target audience.

Those who are looking for Google Ads management near me can request for a consultation with Small Biz Marketing AZ .com. Google Ads offers one of the most effective ways for lead generation for the purpose of attracting new customers to increase sales. With people now using the mobile devices like, smartphones and tablets, to search for establishments offering the product or service they are looking for, Google Ads is very effective because the pay per click (PPC) advertising it offers presents the ads on the first page of the search engine results whenever someone searches using a particular keyword or phrase. The results can be immediate, particularly when the potential customer that sees the PPC ad is near the coffee shop or restaurant. This potential customer may decide right there and then to visit the establishment and try the food or coffee.

Obviously, the online marketer will need to target those keywords or phrases that potential customers use on Google when they are looking for the product or service that is offered by the business. That is why the SEO experts from Small Biz Marketing AZ .com can really help with the Google Ads campaign of the client. And because the marketer only has to pay when the ad is clicked, Google Ads can be used to test the different possible keywords and phrases to find out which can provide the best results in targeting the potential customers of the business and which keywords and phrases are they likely to use when searching for the product or service.

Google Ads also offers the benefit of being affordable because the marketer only has to pay Google when a user clicks on the ad, unlike with conventional advertising where a fixed price has to be paid for the ad whether or not it generates leads for the business. Thus, it is also suitable for businesses that are just starting. In addition, it offers a way to increase brand awareness.

Small Biz Marketing AZ .com was founded with the goal of providing help to businesses in connecting with potential customers within their local area by offering an efficient and dependable platform for producing leads that can later become customers. They offer a comprehensive lead generation service that is both reasonably priced and easy to use. They want to emphasize that they stand out among other lead generation service companies due to a number of reasons, such as: their expertise, the high quality leads they can provide, their focus on helping achieve the clients business objectives, and their affordable price.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_zhobJjYvg

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CSE: CDN

OTCQB: AXVEF

Frankfurt: 338B

VANCOUVER, May 8, 2023 - CDN Maverick Capital Corp. ("Maverick" or the "Company") (CSE: CDN) (OTCPINK: AXVEF) (Frankfurt: A117RU) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into a mining properties purchase agreement (the "Purchase Agreement"), dated effective May 8, 2023, with a subsidiary of NOA Lithium Brines Inc. (TSXV: NOAL) ("NOAL") pursuant to which NOAL has been granted the right to acquire the Nevasca Property.

The Nevasca Property, located in the Arizaro Salar in the Province of Salta, Argentina, spans over 2,842 hectares and boasts promising geology for lithium exploration and mining in one of the largest underexplored Salars of the Lithium Triangle. The option of the Nevasca Property to NOAL represents a strategic move for Maverick, as it allows the Company to maintain exposure to the asset through an equity position in NOAL. In addition, NOAL boasts a large and diversified portfolio of additional projects, encompassing nearly 100,000 hectares of lithium exploration projects including the Rio Grande Salar and the Arizaro Salar with proven lithium occurrences and lithium resources within Argentina's most prolific lithium-producing region.

The terms of the Purchase Agreement allow NOAL to acquire the Property in consideration for the following cash payments and share issuances (cash payments and share issuances are in USD):

$50,000 in cash upon signing

40 days ("Effective Date") after due diligence period: $150,000 of NOAL shares

6 months from Effective Date: $150,000 in cash and issuance of $150,000 of NOAL shares

12 months from Effective Date: $250,000 in cash and issuance of $250,000 of NOAL shares

18 months from Effective Date: $500,000 in cash and issuance of $500,000 of NOAL shares

All share payments owing to Maverick pursuant to the Purchase Agreement will be calculated based upon most recent closing price of NOAL shares on the TSX Venture Exchange immediately prior to issuance, subject to a minimum issue price of $0.30 per share.

A 3% NSR on the Property will be retained by Maverick that can be purchased by NOAL for an additional $1,000,000 in cash or shares, at Maverick's election, within 24 months from Effective Date.

Within 18 (eighteen) months as from the Effective Date, NOAL assumes the commitment to perform exploration works and investments in the amount of US$500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand United States Dollars).

The Purchase Agreement will enable both companies to leverage each other's expertise and resources to accelerate exploration efforts and unlock the potential value of their combined assets. CDN will benefit from NOAL's ongoing exploration activities at the Rio Grande Project and the potential for resource expansion across NOAL's extensive landholdings in the Arizaro Salar through its equity position in NOAL.

This transaction will strengthen and diversify the Company's portfolio and enhance the Company's current cash position. Maverick intends to continue to expand its exposure to lithium exploration by diversifying its asset base and capturing potential upside across multiple projects.

Adam Cegielski, CEO of Maverick, commented, "This transaction is a testament to our commitment to creating shareholder value through innovative growth strategies. By partnering with NOAL, we are maximizing the potential of our assets, gaining exposure to their exploration package and further positioning our Company for long-term success. This transaction exemplifies CDN's mission to aggressively enhance shareholder value by identifying and developing a diverse strong portfolio of investments and projects within the critical minerals exploration sector."

The Company is at arms-length from NOAL. No finders' fees or commissions are payable in connection with the entering into of the Purchase Agreement. Completion of the transaction contemplated by the Purchase Agreement remains subject to the receipt of any required regulatory approvals.

About CDN Maverick Capital Corp:

CDN Maverick Capital Corp. is a Vancouver-based diversified natural resource investment and junior exploration company whose focus is the development of mineral projects. The Company owns a 100% interest in the Nevasca Lithium Project located in the Arizaro Salar in Salta, Argentina, and has more than 1.6M shares of Noram Lithium Corp. (TSX-V: NRM) which is developing the Zeus Lithium Deposit in Clayton Valley Nevada, adjacent to Albemarle's Silver Peak Lithium mine and production facility. CDN Maverick also has a 100% interest in the Rainbow Canyon Gold Project in the Olinghouse Mining District, in the Washoe County Nevada. The company is actively seeking to expand its ESG friendly exploration, development, and investment asset portfolio in Canada and other prime investing and mining jurisdictions in North and South America.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sandy MacDougall

Founder, Chairman and Director

sandyjmacdougall@gmail.com

C: 778.999.2159

Adam Cegielski

CEO

Adam@CDNMaverick.com

C: 905.510.8890

This news release contains projections and forward - looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward - looking information can include without limitation statements based on current expectations involving a number of risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance of the Company. 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; the uncertainty of future profitability; and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. These risks and uncertainties could cause actual results and the Company's plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information. Actual results and future events could differ materially from anticipated in such information. These and all subsequent written and oral forward- looking information are based on estimates and opinions of management on the dates they are made and expressed qualified in their entirety by this notice. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking information should circumstance or management's estimates or opinions change.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange ("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.

SOURCE CDN Maverick Capital Corp.
Recent Russian air strikes against Ukrainian cities using Iranian Shahed-136s resulted in one of the UAVs having engine trouble and landing intact. This enabled Ukrainian and foreign investigators to scrutinize the construction of the Shahed-136. Most of these that run into engine problems crash and explode. This one had been given contaminated fuel that caused the UAV to gradually descend and hit the ground without enough impact to set off the warhead contact fuze.

Obtaining an intact aircraft allowed for a more thorough inspection to be done. The MD-550 engine was built in Iran and it was confirmed that this was indeed an illegal copy of the German L-550 engine. Iran had obtained one of these engines in 2006 and used it in several UAVs, including Shahed-136. The L-550 entered production in the 1980s and was a popular engine for ultralight aircraft and UAVs. Legal copies of the L-550 cost about $15,000 each. That means a Shahed-136 costs about twice the original estimate of $20,000 each. A Shahed-136 weighs 200 kg (440 pounds) and is armed with a warhead containing 30 to 50 kg, most of it explosives. Thats not a lot because most cruise missiles carry warheads weighing half a ton (500 kg) or more. The Shahed-136 warhead will damage, not destroy, most structures it hits. Shahed-136 is launched using a rocket motor that gets it into the air and then detaches and falls away.

Iran provides several different warheads, including an anti-tank version. Navigation is via GPS or a remote operator that can be up to 150 kilometers away from the Shahed-136. Top speed is 185 kilometers an hour but using a lower cruising speed range can be over a thousand kilometers. Shahed-136 is reactively slow for a cruise missile and normally flies low and is loud. You can hear it coming and Ukraine developed a cell phone app that allowed people to point their phone at a Shahed-136 and automatically transmit the UAV location to a central command center that was tracking aerial attacks and alerting anti-aircraft units, especially those that used heavy machine-guns, to shoot down the Shahed-136s. Without the element of surprise, Shahed-136 is a very ineffective weapon.

In late 2022 Ukraine accused Iran of supplying Russia with 1,700 Shahed-136s for use as cruise missiles, especially during covert surprise attacks. Ukrainian air defenses have improved to the point where most of the Shahed-136s Russia launches against them are shot down. In one case all the Shahed-136s launched were shot down. This attack was made at night to hit Ukrainian urban electrical distribution systems. Officially, Iran says it is not supplying Russia with Shahed-136s but they continue to be used to the present.
Vancouver, May 8, 2023 - Eastern Platinum Ltd. (TSX: ELR) (JSE: EPS) ("Eastplats" or the "Company") today announced the completion of the previously announced rights offering to its shareholders (the "Rights Offering") (see news release of March 24, 2023), subject to final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") and Johannesburg Stock Exchange (the "JSE").

On Friday, May 12, 2023 (the "Issue Date") Eastplats will issue an aggregate of 64,080,653 common shares of the Company (each a "Common Share") at a price of CDN$0.11 per Common Share issued in respect of the exercise of rights trading on the TSX and ZAR1.4564 (145.64 South African cents) per Common Share issued in respect of the exercise of rights trading on the JSE. The Company is very pleased to have raised total gross proceeds of approximately CDN$7,043,721 (TSX-CDN$6,900,317 and JSE-ZAR1,966,862) in terms of the Rights Offering.

The aggregate number of 64,080,653 Common Shares is comprised of 52,313,551 Common Shares, which will be issued in respect of the rights exercised under the basic subscription privilege, and an additional 11,767,102 Common Shares, which will be issued in respect of applications to subscribe for additional Common Shares received by the Company under the additional subscription privilege (on the basis that all applications for additional Common Shares have been allocated in full). As of the Issue Date, 201,901,426 Common Shares of Eastplats will be issued and outstanding. No Common Shares will be issued under a stand-by commitment and no fees or commissions will be paid in connection with the distribution.

To the knowledge of the Company, after reasonable inquiry, no person that was not an insider of Eastplats became an insider as a result of the issue of Common Shares under the Rights Offering.

Further to the rights offering circular of the Company dated March 24, 2023, the Company confirms that Ka An Development Co. Limited ("Ka An"), an insider by virtue of beneficial ownership of, or control or direction over, directly or indirectly, securities of the Company carrying more than 10% of the voting rights attached to all the Company's outstanding voting securities, has exercised its basic subscription privilege to acquire 45,000,000 Common Shares and its additional subscription privilege to acquire 10,767,000 Common Shares, for a total of 55,767,000 Common Shares, bringing Ka An's holdings after the Rights Offering to 100,767,000 Common Shares of the Company, representing 49.9% of the total issued and outstanding Common Shares of the Company.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Rights Offering to commence and/or complete various projects as described in the rights offering circular to expand and grow Eastplats' revenue potential. Eastplats will provide a more detailed and definitive update in regards to the specific projects and priorities in due course.

General

The Common Shares issuable upon exercise of the Rights have not been nor will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold, as applicable, in the United States absent registration (which the Company has not sought) or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of the Company. There shall be no offer or sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification of such securities under the laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Eastern Platinum Limited

Eastplats owns directly and indirectly a number of platinum group metals ("PGM") and chrome assets in the Republic of South Africa. All of the Company's properties are situated on the western limb of the Crocodile River Mine and eastern limb of Kennedy's Vale, Spitzkop and Mareesburg projects within the Bushveld Complex, the geological environment that hosts approximately 80% of the world's PGM-bearing ore.

Operations at the Crocodile River Mine currently include re-mining and processing its tailings resource to produce PGM and chrome concentrates from the Barplats Zandfontein tailings dam.

www.eastplats.com

For further information, please contact:

Eastern Platinum Ltd.

Wylie Hui, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary

whui@eastplats.com (email)

(604) 800-8200 (phone)

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, forecasts, estimates, expectations and objectives for future operations that are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "will", "plan", "intends", "may", "will", "could", "expects", "anticipates" and similar expressions. Further disclosure of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and other forward-looking statements are discussed in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to: the use of proceeds from the Rights Offering, expansion and growth of revenue potential. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, unanticipated problems that may arise in the Company's production processes, commodity prices, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, need for additional funding and availability of such additional funding on acceptable terms, economic conditions, currency fluctuations, competition and regulations, legal proceedings and risks related to operations in foreign countries.

All forward-looking statements in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, the "Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information" section contained in the Company's most recent Management's Discussion and Analysis available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date they are given and, except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation, and does not undertake, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165195
Vancouver, May 8th 2023 - Arizona Silver Exploration Inc. (TSXV:AZS) (OTC:AZASF) is pleased to announce it has appointed Tom Peregoodoff as an Advisor to the Board of Directors effective immediately.

Mr. Peregoodoff has over 30 years of resource industry experience, much of it in greenfield and brownfield exploration and resource development. Currently, Mr. Peregoodoff is President, CEO and a Director of Apollo Silver Corp. and a director of TSX-V listed American Copper Development Corp. and ASX listed American West Metals Ltd.

Prior to this Mr. Peregoodoff was President and CEO of Peregine Diamonds Ltd. where he led Peregine from the resource development phase and initial engineering through to the eventual sale to DeBeers Canada in 2018. Prior to his position with Peregine, Mr. Peregoodoff spent 18 years in several positions with the mining multinational BHP, culminating in his role as Vice President of Early-Stage Exploration, with global responsibility for all early-stage exploration across their commodity groups. Mr. Peregoodoff holds a BSc. in Geophysics from the University of Calgary.

Mike Stark, President, and CEO of the Company, stated, "On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my pleasure to welcome Tom to the team at this exciting time for the Company as we build and advance our Philadelphia property, the next emerging discovery in Arizona. I have had several meetings with Tom over the past months and his honesty, experience, and worldly established trust in the industry speaks volumes in today's market environment. I look forward to the opportunity to work closely with Tom as we rapidly move to our next phase of growth."

"Over the last few months, I have had an opportunity to get to know Arizona Silver Exploration," commented Tom Peregoodoff, "I have been impressed by both the team and the potential of the assets that Mike and Greg have been able to put together. It is an exciting time for the Company, and I look forward to working with the group as they advance the discovery at the Philadelphia project and maximize returns to stakeholders."

Mr. Peregoodoff was granted 200,000 stock options of the Company. Each option entitles Mr. Peregoodoff to acquire one common share of the Company at the price of $0.56 per share for a five-year period, being fully vested on grant.

About Arizona Silver Exploration Inc.

Arizona Silver is a young exploration company focused on exploring gold-silver properties in western Arizona and Nevada. The flagship asset is the Philadelphia property.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Arizona Silver Exploration Inc.

Mike Stark, President and CEO, Director

Phone: (604) 833-4278

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.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, May 08, 2023 - Western Resources Corp. (TSX: WRX) ("Western" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that its shareholders approved all items put before them at the Company's Annual General Shareholder Meeting ("AGM") held today, March 10, 2023. The approved items are:



Fixed the number of directors of the Company at 7; The election of Bill Xue, George Gao, Mark Fracchia, Justin Xing, Guy Bentinck, Andrew Hancharyk and Scott Nagel to the Board. A total of 328,893,991 common shares, representing 80.51% of the outstanding common shares of the Company as at the record date, were present in person or by proxy at the meeting. The approximate number of those votes "For" each director, the approximate "Percentage" of the total votes cast and the "Withheld/Abstain" votes for each director are shown as below:

Director For Withheld/Abstain Percentage Bill Xue 290,562,409 281,780 99.90% George Gao 290,563,629 280,560 99.90% Mark Fracchia 290,647,637 196,552 99.93% Justin Xing 290,649,317 194,872 99.93% Guy Bentinck 290,646,287 197,902 99.93% Andrew Hancharyk 290,648,837 195,352 99.93% Scott Nagel 290,651,047 193,142 99.93%

3. The re-appointment of MNP LLP as auditors of the Company at a remuneration to be fixed by the directors, with 290,705,797 shares voted "For", representing 99.95% of the outstanding common shares of the Company and 138,392 shares voted "Withheld".

The new Board then re-elected Mr. Bill Xue as Chairman of the Company, with Mr. Justin Xing as Chair of the Executive Committee, Mr. Mark Fracchia as Chair of the Nominating and Assessment Committee, Mr. Guy Bentinck as Chair of the Audit Committee, Mr. Scott Nagel as Chair of the Compensation Committee and Mr. Andrew Hancharyk as Chair of the Corporate Disclosure Policy Committee. Mr. Shuai Wei and Mr. Owen Zhang are re-appointed as Board Observers.

The Company welcomes Mr. Scott Nagel to Western's board. Mr. Nagel brings over 30 years of grain and fertilizer experience to the Company. He was President of the ADM Benson Quinn from 2008 until January this year when he retired. The Board is confident that Mr. Nagel will play an important role in helping the Company with its continued efforts in business marketing, project financing and company strategy.

Western's Chairman Bill Xue said, "I am very pleased that we now have a very strong board in the Company's history. The addition of Mr. Nagel to our board improves the board structure by adding additional depth, with the board members having experience in one or more of strategic, financial, technical, legal or corporate management. As the Milestone Project construction's expected completion is in May, and with the progression of its mining development to a more advanced level, I expect Western to be able to deliver a successful and innovative potash project in the near future."

About Western Resources Corp.

Western Resources Corp. (TSX: WRX) ("the Company") and the Company's wholly owned subsidiary Western Potash Corp. are constructing Canada's newest and most innovative, environmentally friendly and capital-efficient potash mine. This will be the first potash mine in the world that will leave no salt tailings at the surface, thereby reducing the water consumption by half as well as significantly improving energy efficiency.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bill Xue

Chairman

Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "expected", "intend", "may", "will", "project", "plan", "should", "believe" and similar expressions (including negative variations), or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information that is set out herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.




RENO, May 8, 2023 - i-80 Gold Corp. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80", or the "Company") reports its operating and financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023. i-80's Consolidated Interim Financial Statements ("financial statements"), as well as i-80's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial Condition ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2023, are available on the Company's website at www.i80gold.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts referred to herein are in U.S. dollars.

2023 First Quarter Highlights:

Q1 2023 gold sales of 2,349 ounces, including the first gold sold from the Granite Creek property

March 31 cash balance of $57 million and $33 million in restricted cash

Continued exploration success at Ruby Hill including multiple new high-grade discoveries and expansion of gold and polymetallic mineralization

6,890 core feet and 320 RC feet drilled to expand monitoring of the hydraulic properties at McCoy Cove

Continued underground core drilling delineation of the CSD Gap ore body at McCoy Cove (10,699 feet)

9,389 tons of oxide mineralized material shipped to Lone Tree from Granite Creek for processing

Entered into an agreement to acquire Paycore Minerals Inc.

Engineering Class III study of Lone Tree autoclave refurbishment continued on plan

"We are encouraged to have achieved the milestone of our first gold sale from Granite Creek, with over 400 ounces sold. We continue to advance development and improve production capabilities at this site and expect a ramp up through 2023. In addition, we continued to have production from the residual leaching at both Lone Tree and Ruby Hill", stated Ryan Snow, Chief Financial Officer of i-80. "We continued to advance development at McCoy-Cove and exploration at Ruby Hill spending nearly $9.0 million during the quarter to further understand the Hilltop and Blackjack zones at Ruby Hill and the CSD Gap ore body at McCoy Cove. With the additional capital raise completed in February, we will continue to advance i-80's projects towards our ultimate goal of being a mid-tier Nevada focused producer."



Three months ended

March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted) 2023 2022





Revenue 4,548 2,857 Cost of sales (6,542) (1,525) Depletion, depreciation and amortization (1,421) (167) Mine operating income (loss) (3,415) 1,165





Expenses



Exploration, evaluation, and pre-development 8,979 9,254 General and administrative 5,191 3,273 Property maintenance 2,449 326 Share-based payments 1,308 1,442 Operating loss (21,342) (13,130)

Production and sales totaled 2,349 gold ounces for the quarter at a realized gold price of $1,9271 per ounce sold.

Exploration, evaluation, and pre-development costs were $9.0 million in Q1. This expenditure mainly reflects the exploration and pre-development work at McCoy Cove and Ruby Hill.

Lone Tree

Lone Tree is expected to become the hub of i-80's Nevada operations and the central processing facility for gold mineralization from the Granite Creek, McCoy-Cove and Ruby Hill underground gold deposits. Importantly, Lone Tree is host to infrastructure that, following successful refurbishment efforts, will position i-80 as one of only three companies in the United States capable of processing both oxide and refractory mineralization.

During the quarter, the Company continued leaching the residual material on the pads as planned and shipped approximately 1,950 ounces of gold on loaded carbon from site to further processing. Additionally, the Company continued to advance the engineering study and cost estimate for the restart of the autoclave.

Lone Tree produced and sold from its residual leaching activities 663 ounces of gold during Q1 at a realized gold price of $1,9621 per ounce sold.

Granite Creek

During Q1 the Company continued its efforts to upgrade existing de-watering infrastructure to ensure efficient operations and have mined 16,648 tons of mineralized material at an average grade of 9.9 g/t, of which 9,389 tons of oxide material was hauled to the Lone Tree leach pad to continue processing. As of March 31, 2023, 1,870 feet of development were completed as part of the Company's ramp up plan.

Granite Creek produced and sold 444 ounces of gold during Q1, at a realized gold price of $1,9381 per ounce sold.

McCoy-Cove

There was 7,210 feet of core and RC drilling conducted during the first quarter of 2023 for hydrogeologic characterization to support permitting efforts. Underground delineation drilling continued during Q1 with 10,699 feet of core drilled. Expenditures continued during the quarter on the exploration ramp and hydrology studies, and engineering of de-watering and mining options. As of the end of the first quarter, development footage completed was 1,308 feet. Total footage development of the project life as of Q1 2023 is 4,403 feet.

Ruby Hill

During the first quarter of 2023, drilling at Ruby Hill was primarily focused on further definition and expansion of high-grade polymetallic mineralization along the Hilltop fault structure, successfully extending mineralization over a strike length of approximately 750 metres and resulting in the discovery of additional zones. 13,875 feet of core drilling and 25,750 feet of RC drilling was completed during the quarter. In addition to drilling at Hilltop, multiple holes are being drilled to test the Blackjack Zone and these holes are intended at testing new targets. The Ruby Hill property provides significant optionality as it is host to oxide gold, sulphide gold, polymetallic CRD and skarn base metal mineralization. All deposits are located in close proximity to the underground infrastructure development being planned in 2023.

Residual leaching activities at Ruby Hill produced and sold 1,242 ounces of gold during Q1 at a realized gold price of $1,9041 per ounce sold.

Investor Day Presentation

The Company will hold an "Investor Day" presentation immediately following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 9, 2023, being held at Bennett Jones LLP office - 100 King St W Suite 3400, Toronto in the Canada Boardroom on the 34th floor. The in-person AGM will begin at 4:00pm EST followed by the Investor Day presentation commencing at 4:30pm EST. The presentation can also be accessed via a conference call and webcast (details below). Investors are invited to attend the event in-person where they can meet and discuss details with members of i-80's Board of Directors and Management Team.

Conference Call Participant Details Webcast URL: https://app.webinar.net/AyeNd3zbxWk Phone Number Information: North American Toll-free: 1-888-664-6383

Local Toronto: 1-416-764-8650

Qualified Persons

Tyler Hill, CPG-12146, Chief Geologist, and Tim George, PE, Mining Operations Manager, at i-80 have reviewed this press release and are the Qualified Persons for the information contained herein and are a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

About i-80 Gold Corp.

i-80 Gold Corp. is a Nevada-focused mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio with processing at i-80's centralized milling facilities. i-80 Gold's common shares are listed on the TSX and the NYSE American under the trading symbol IAU:TSX and IAUX:NYSE. Further information about i-80 Gold's portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.i80gold.com or by email at info@i80gold.com.

Forward-looking information

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, actual production results and costs, results of operation outcomes and timing of updated technical studies at the Company's mineral projects, timing to advance mineral projects to production and advance permitting and feasibility work on the on its mineral projects and future production, development and exploration results. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labor unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to i-80's filings with Canadian securities regulators, including the most recent Annual Information Form, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The Company has included certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under IFRS in this document. These include: adjusted net earnings and average realized price per ounce. Non-IFRS financial performance measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with the Company's Financial Statements.

Definitions

Adjusted earnings / (loss) and adjusted earnings / (loss) per share excludes from net earnings / (loss) significant write-down adjustments and the gain / (loss) from financing instruments.

Average realized gold price represents the sales price of gold per ounce before deducting mining royalties, treatment and refining charges and gains or losses derived from the offtake agreement with Orion.

Average realized gold price per ounce of gold sold

Average realized gold price per ounce of gold sold is a non-IFRS measure and does not constitute a measure recognized by IFRS and does not have a standardized meaning defined by IFRS. It may not be comparable to information in other gold producers' reports and filings.





Three months ended March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted)(i)













Nevada production

2023 2022 Revenue per financial statements $ 4,548 2,864 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (21) (7) Gold revenue from mining operations $ 4,527 2,857 Ounces of gold sold ounce 2,349 1,489 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,927 1,918







Lone Tree





Revenue per financial statements $ 1,304 1,631 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (4) (7) Gold revenue from mining operations $ 1,300 1,624 Ounces of gold sold ounce 663 843 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,962 1,926







Ruby Hill





Revenue per financial statements $ 2,382 1,233 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (16) - Gold revenue from mining operations $ 2,366 1,233 Ounces of gold sold ounce 1,242 646 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,904 1,908







Granite Creek





Revenue per financial statements $ 861 - Silver revenue from mining operations $ - - Gold revenue from mining operations $ 861 - Ounces of gold sold ounce 444 - Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,938 -

(i) May not add due to rounding.

Adjusted Earnings / (Loss)

Adjusted earnings / (loss) and adjusted earnings / (loss) per share are non-IFRS measures that the Company considers to better reflect normalized earnings because it eliminates non-recurring items. Certain items that become applicable in a period may be adjusted for, with the Company retroactively presenting comparable periods with an adjustment for such items and conversely, items no longer applicable may be removed from the calculation. Neither adjusted earnings / (loss) nor adjusted earnings / (loss) per share have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.

The following table shows a reconciliation of adjusted earnings / (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, to the net earnings / (loss) for each period.



Three months ended

March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted)(i) 2023 2022





Net loss for the period $ (13,118) $ (23,263) Adjust for:



Gain / (loss) on warrants 5,568 (3,105) Gain / (loss) on convertible loans 8,366 (6,093) Loss on deferred consideration (427) (844) Loss on fair value measurement of Gold Prepayment Agreement (3,091) - Loss on fair value measurement of Silver Purchase Agreement (857) - Inventory net realizable value adjustment (4,025) - Total adjustments $ 5,534 $ (10,042) Adjusted loss for the period $ (18,652) $ (13,221) Weighted average shares for the period 245,603,313 239,301,138 Adjusted loss per share for the period $ (0.08) $ (0.06)

(i) May not add due to rounding.

1 Specified financial measure which is not a standardized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar specified financial measures used by other entities. Please see "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" for the composition of such specified financial measure, an explanation of how such specified financial measure provides useful information to a reader and the purposes for which management of i-80 uses the specified financial measure, and where required, a reconciliation of the specified financial measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/i-80-gold-reports-q1-2023-operating-results-301818758.html

SOURCE i-80 Gold Corp.
G7:          
Energy transition: Natural gas, best fuel for Ghana  Ghana Gas CEO

Maxwell Akalaare Adombila Business News May - 08 - 2023 , 08:07

THE Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC), Dr Ben K.D. Asante, says natural gas is Ghanas best stepping stone to a climate-friendly environment powered by renewable energy.

Citing the findings of a research by Ghana Gas, the oil and gas engineer told the Daily Graphic in Houston, Texas, that a heavy reliance on gas as fuel for thermal plants as against light crude oil would reduce the energy bill by 50 per cent and also cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than 80 per cent.

Ghana currently has about 15 thermal plants that generate about 3,753 megawatts (MW) of electricity in Takoradi in the Western Region and Tema in the Greater Accra Region.

Speaking to the paper after participating in an Africa forum on the energy transition at the just-ended Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), Dr Asante said although Ghana and Africa in general must not be rushed into making the shift to renewables, cheaper and cleaner alternatives could be explored as bridge fuels to help lengthen the use of fossil fuels and the exploitation of the hydrocarbons.

He was speaking on the role gas can play in the energy transition.

Cleaner alternative

Dr Asante, who sat through the programme, said Africa needed technical and financial resources to be able to participate fully in the energy transition.

But while it explored the avenues to raise resources and built the technical capacity, the petroleum engineer said it needed to find smarter ways of lengthening its uses of fossil fuel.

This, he said, made gas a smarter option.

Takoradi is generating about 1,000 MW of power.

When you use light crude oil, our bill, even when you are looking at crude oil at $60 per barrel, is about $70 million per month to generate a 1,000mw.

When we use gas instead of the light crude oil, our monthly bill is just about $33 million.

So, you see a significant reduction in our bill when we use gas instead of oil. But it does not end there, he said.

We also talk about the atmospheric emissions as well.

When we use oil, we are able to get into the atmosphere with CO2 to the tune of about 8.3 million tonnes per year but when we use natural gas, we only release just about 1.3 million tonnes per year for the same amount of energy of a 1,000MW that we generate in Takoradi.

So, you see that you do not only have significant savings by using gas instead of oil but you also have significant atmospheric responsiveness when you use gas, the Ghana Gas CEO said.

Energy forum

Meanwhile, the energy transition forum, which was on the theme: Building resilience in Africas energy sector in the wake of energy transition, brought together policy makers, experts and investors in Africas energy sector to explore the impact of energy transition on the continent and how it should approach it.

It was in two parts: opening speeches from Ghanas Minister of Energy, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria's Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Ambassador Gabriel Taminu Aduba, and a panel discussion by private sector players and regulators from the continent.

The panel comprised the CEO of the Petroleum Commission, Ghana, Egbert Faibille Jr, who also represented Ghanas Minister of Energy; the Executive Vice President and Head of Kosmos Ghana, Joe Mensah; the Chairman of the Association of Tanzania Oil and Gas Service Providers, Abdulsamad Abdulrahim, and the Chief Technical Officer of the Niger Delta Exploration and Production Plc in Nigeria, Ebenezer Ageh.

It was moderated by Dr Kwame Boakye Agyei of the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber.
Govt urged to reduce taxes on building materials

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Business News May - 08 - 2023 , 07:46

The President of KasaBazaar, a real estate company, John William Adel, has appealed to the government to reduce taxes on building materials to enable players in the real estate sector to provide affordable housing for the general public.

Speaking at the official launch of the companys operations in Accra, Mr Adel said it was equally important for the government to introduce policies and interventions that would enable the financial institutions to provide less expensive credit facilities to businesses, including the real estate sector.

He said the current cost of doing business in the country was very expensive, a situation that had affected many businesses, making it difficult for them to stay afloat.

We hope that government will reduce taxes on building materials.

That is the most important thing.

The government must also support the banks for them to provide more liquidity for the real estate companies to be able to build more affordable houses for people.

The government is helping but it can do more, he said.

Expansion

KasaBazaar, which started from Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, has so far expanded its operations to Takoradi in the Western Region and Accra.

The company deals in real estate, property management and shipment of goods from abroad to its final destination in any part of the country.

We are already in Accra because we have so many projects here.

We, however, decided to come out officially Mr Adel said.

Explaining the business model, the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Rose Adel, said the company helped people to build and also completed their buildings within a short period for the customer to pay over a long term.

We help our client build their visions and they pay gradually.

We give them payment options and the pay based on the option that they choose, she said.
Daily Graphic Editorials

Clergy, traditional leaders must be apolitical

Daily Graphic Editorials May - 08 - 2023 , 12:07

Religious and traditional leaders occupy a position of influence because of their role and impact on society.

They are revered mainly due to the leadership they provide as well as the good moral and ethical values they uphold. They are also the arbiter when it comes to conflict resolutions and, therefore, they are always expected to be neutral and apolitical.

The use of the pulpit by some religious leaders to endorse candidates or political parties in elections is therefore quite disturbing. It is more prevalent when political parties are electing candidates to represent them in national elections and even worse in the run-up to the national elections during which period some men and women of God even prophesy about the candidate or political party that will win the elections.

The problem is not only limited to some of our clergymen and women but to some of our traditional leaders who end up embarrassing themselves when their proclaimed candidates lose the elections and seek to use the backdoor to make amends.

The Daily Graphic believes that the Church and the chieftaincy institution must be revered and kept in high esteem so that they can play much more advocacy, admonishing peace and cohesion in the country. It then becomes disturbing when these leaders turn out in political colours.

This is why we agree with the Chairperson of the Asante Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rev. Benson Osafo Kantankah, that the Church should not use the pulpit to endorse or support any candidate or political party before, during and after the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

Such a call, as we stated earlier, should not only be limited to the clergy but our traditional authorities as well, to ensure their neutrality when commenting on or discussing national issues. That way, Ghanaians and the powers that be will take them seriously since they have earned their respect.

In our current state of polarisation, we need voices that promote oneness and a sense of purpose and direction for peace and tranquillity to prevail at all times.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is a typical example of a ruler who has maintained a dignified apolitical stance which has earned him the respect of all. He says it as it is whether one is in power or in opposition. Some religious bodies such as the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council speak as one body through communiques on national issues.

We need voices that will speak truth to power.

The country is already grappling with issues of illegal mining, the debate on LGBTQ+, bribery and corruption and economic malaise.

The Daily Graphic expects the Church and traditional authorities to do a thorough reflection on these matters and proffer solutions no matter how bitter they might be to Ghanaians. We all have a stake in addressing the challenges confronting the country that require a collective and holistic approach to solve.

As Rev. Kantankah stated: The church as a stakeholder has a major role to play; this is an opportune time for Christians to do something concrete about our physical and spiritual environment.

After all, a good number of health and educational facilities were set up by churches which render good services to the people, especially those in deprived areas.

Being neutral also helps feuding factions to trust them to resolve problems instead of being seen as players, especially, those who soil themselves with partisanship.

The Daily Graphic believes that if our clergy and our traditional leaders distant themselves from political party issues, they can be relied upon to mediate on the differences.

However, such a role they play would be greatly appreciated if they avoid partisan commentary or declaration of support for one candidate or political party.
In the pants of a woman

Kobina Ansah's Shrine Entertainment May - 08 - 2023 , 11:00 Updated: May - 08 - 2023 , 00:54

In the pants of a woman is a product that is not for everybodys consumption. In there is a world that belongs only to them.

In the pants of a woman is a pleasure that is not for everyones leisure. Deep down inside the pants of a woman is a private space not a public property!

Its amazing how others assume that the body of a woman is for their sexual pleasure, thus, must have it at all cost when they want it.

You wonder if others come from Pluto when they assume that the content in the pants of every woman is for their satisfaction; even at the discomfort of the said woman.

We are living in times that make everyone exposed to a myriad of dangers clothed in human skin. Our daughters and mothers are especially exposed to people whose heads are used for everything except thinking.

From the harsh economic conditions to all the frenzy that goes on social media, our women are now more exposed to rapists and rape apologists more than they were before.

According to Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service, 1,047 girls were defiled while 305 women were raped in 2020 alone. Mind you, for every reported rape case, there are two or more others that were never reported for the sake of stigmatisation!

Our society aids and abets rape. Most rapists find our society a safe haven because we hand to them a lifeline when we condemn victims and stereotype them.

It will amaze you the overwhelming number of women who have had to gloss over their abuse because they couldnt stand societys mockery had they reported. And thats how society conspires with rapists to be in business!

In this 21st century, we still have so-called level-headed people writing off rape cases because victims were in skimpy clothes.

Assuming that someones skimpy clothes is the cause of rape is like assuming that every robbery case should be excused because victims were probably flaunting their money on the street.

Even if people flaunt their money, it is their money. If they expose their body, it is theirs. Robbery, just like rape, has no excuse!

Justifying a rape case because the victim was in the perpetrators premises is like admitting that anyone has the permission to drive away any car they see on their premises.

Such a Stone Age mindset! Rape is a crime and has no excuse whatsoever even if the victim was parading naked!

Every womans body is her body it belongs to her alone. Until one is given permission, it is an abuse a crime. Our men must know that sexual abuse has no excuse. In the pants of a woman is their privacy deep in there is a part of them that is strictly private.

Its about time we protected our women and children. Its about time we made our daughters and sisters understood that no one can get into their pants without their permission.

Its high time we made them know that no one can steal the content in their pants without their consent. We need to make them know that it is a part of their body, not an extension of public property.

We have to let our daughters know that trust makes them vulnerable. Its about time we explained to them that they cant trust anybody any more than they trust themselves. Oftentimes, those they trust are the same to thrust a spear into their hearts.

Our daughters should be wary on social media. Not everyone can be a friend. Not everyone is worth engaging in a conversation. A lot of evil people are prowling around. Rapists hide behind accounts and lure others into their haven. They warm their way into their hearts and find a way of seducing them. They ply their trade so well that before they know, they are already victims.

While we protect our women, we need to empower them as well. We need to empower our girls to report rape cases. We need to strengthen our mothers to voice any form of sexual abuse meted out to them.

It is not a norm to be raped neither is it a norm to have it unreported. Our women should be strong enough not to bottle up any form of abuse!

Empowerment begins with shoving away every form of stigmatisation heaped on victims. If we want to have a society where rapists and their apologists are exposed and punished, we should not verbally abuse the sexually abused.

If we ever wish to live in a society which is rid of pedophiles and their kind, we should be brave enough to confront the perpetrators and not the victims.

Every woman is at risk because men whose lust has no bounds abound. Men who would pounce on anyone in skirt are all over the place. No one should be allowed to walk away after selfishly abusing another because they are vulnerable.

Our girls are at risk in their schools and even in our homes. Our mothers are, too. Every woman is at risk!

As much as we protect them, we should let them know that they should never be silent on any hints of sexual abuse.

They should earn our confidence and not be suppressed by the fear of their abusers. When we get into the hearts of our daughters, no one can break into their pants.

In their pants is a home. Only a burglar breaks in!

Kobina Ansah is a Ghanaian playwright and Chief Scribe of Scribe Communications (www.scribecommltd.com), an Accra-based writing firm. Order for copies of his animation book, Animuonyam The Bully Stopper, via 0243752793.
Theres nothing like bad sound- Fredyma

Jayne Buckman-Owoo Showbiz News May - 08 - 2023 , 10:02

SOMETIMES, we listen to music and the sound is so bad leaving people wondering where that may be coming from and often blaming the artiste. Wrong!

Sound Engineer Fred Kyei-Mensah, popularly known as Fredyma, opines that there is nothing like bad sound as far as he is concerned but rather, there are bad pieces of equipment.

Fredyma made this submission in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Monday, May 1, saying, My sister, in my experience, I dont know anything as bad sound but we have bad equipment, when you go to any village for a funeral and they are playing Kojo Antwis song, for example, definitely if the speakers are not good, you wont enjoy the song.

For instance, we have Enwomkro (traditional music), which is sometimes played at engagements, funerals, etc. The sound of these recordings would be different from, for example, Kojo Antwis song, which is recorded in a studio. So a listener of Enwomkro will prefer that kind of sound to any other because it is very authentic, he explained.

Fredyma has trained a lot of people in his line of work and he delved a bit into that.

Read also: Hard work got me here - Black Sherif on winning VGMA Artiste of Year

The last time I checked my list, I had trained about 65 sound engineers from Ghana, Cote dIvoire, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, South Africa and Liberia.

During the Liberia civil war, most of its nationals sought refuge in Ghana and I trained those who came to me in my studio. That is from 1995 till when Ellen Sirleaf Johnson became President. Most of them have returned to Liberia while others have moved to other parts of the world.

Locally, I am talking of the likes of Appietus, Jay Q, Bishop Mantey and Sammy Sackey, among others. When it comes to music too, I have recorded for musicians such as Celestine Donkor, Ohemaa Mercy, Samini, Reggie Zippy, Ofori Amponsah, the late Daasebre Gyamenah who I discovered, among others, he said.

Giving his views on the current crop of musicians, Fredyma said there was a generational gap in terms of listenership or how people consume music.

The population of the youth is very big when it comes to the consumption of music and if you look at it carefully, you can tell that they prefer the current crop of musicians.

In terms of their artistic content or the kind of music they make, the young musicians can flow with the love songs, Afrobeats, etc. Afrobeats is just snippets of Highlife devoid of horns and other instruments but that goes down very well with the youth.
Million desks needed for public basic schools nationwide  Education think tank

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Education May - 08 - 2023 , 12:31

Over one million desks are needed by public basic schools across the country to ensure effective teaching and learning, Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch), an educational consultant and think tank, has said.

That, it said, was because 2,330,893 basic school pupils did not have writing or seating places as of 2021.

Out of that number, it said, 596,949 were in Kindergarten, 1,308,479 were in Primary and 425,465 were in the Junior High School (JHS) and because the country operated a dual desk policy at the basic school level, over a million desks were needed to salvage the situation.

A Senior Programme Officer at Eduwatch, Divine Kpe, made this known during a presentation at the launch of the Global Action Week for Education (GAWE) by the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition (GNECC) held in Accra.

It was chaired by the Executive Director of Ghana Blind Union (GBU), Dr Peter Obeng Asamoah.

The primary goal of the celebration was the promotion of the global Sustainable Development Goal four (SDG 4) which is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

According to Mr Kpe, the furniture deficit situation had occurred because of increased funding for secondary infrastructure compared to that of the basic level.

He also said available data had indicated that the huge desk deficit was one of the major factors that discouraged some parents from sending their children to school.

The lack of desks in schools affects childrens academic performance and may cause children not to find the school environment friendly to remain in school putting them at the risk of droping out of school, he added.



Way forward

Mr Kpe urged the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to let the public and the government know the implications of the desk situation in basic schools for the attainment of SDG 4 so as to empower the citizens in the communities to demand action from local government to address the problem.

He called for increased funding for basic education infrastructure development by uncapping the GETFund and reviewing the formula for the allocation of the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) to reflect the needs of basic education infrastructure.

Call on government

The vice chairman of GNECC, Joshua Nyumuah, said even though government was doing the best it could, more resources were needed to be channelled into the sub-sector to avoid an educational accident.

Education is not a privilege but rather a human right which has been enshrined in the SDG 4 for which GNECC is fighting then we have to use all the tools to lobby and advocate Ghana to do the needful, Mr Nyumuah stressed.

There were solidarity messages from stakeholders in the education sector and partners of GNECC.

They were ActionAid, Oxfam, CAMFED, National Association of Graduate Teachers, Ghana National Association of Teachers, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, Ghana Education Service and the Complementary Education Agency.
3 Storey buildings collapse in a week: Fears theres lack of supervision

Maclean Kwofi May - 08 - 2023 , 11:58

Three multi-storey buildings have collapsed at three different places within a spate of one week, raising serious concerns about the rigidity of the building laws, stringent supervision by supervising authorities as well as adherence to best practices for safety by contractors.

The Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) has called for a mandatory geological survey to be part of the process of granting of building permits in the country.

It was, therefore, advocating a strong collaboration with the metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies to enforce this mandate, particularly for public buildings and storey buildings, before construction was allowed to start on those projects.

Interacting with stakeholders at a sensitisation programme in Kumasi, the Director-General of GGSA, Isaac Kuuwan Mwinbele, said that was to ensure the safety of the structures and the people who would be using those facilities.

Mr Mwinbele said involving the Geological Survey Authority right from the beginning of the process of issuing building permits would help guide the assembly and the contractors on the preventive measures to be put in place to avert a disaster depending on the nature of the land.

This was because not all the lands were suitable for the siting of some structures and as such, there would be the need for the owners and the assemblies to get the authority involved in the granting of the building permits.

He said already, the authority had been offering this service to the Ghana Highway Authority and the Ministry of Roads and Highways and believed that the time had come for the housing sector to also benefit from this service.

Last Saturday, a six-storey building under construction at the University for Development Studies, City Campus at Sagnarigu in Tamale collapsed.

The incident reportedly occurred after a rainstorm.

Also last Thursday, one person reportedly died after being trapped under the rubble following the collapse of a three-storey building at Nanakrom in the Adentan Municipality in Accra.

This was barely four days after another three-storey building under construction collapsed at SDA Junction at the Adentan side of La-Nkwantanang Madina.

That incident resulted in the death of one person with three others sustaining injuries.

The supervisor of the three-storey building was subsequently arrested by the police and later granted bail while the Municipal Chief Executive for La-Nkwantanang Madina, Jennifer Agyabeng directed the confiscation of the equipment of the contractors after it emerged that the project had no permit.

Also in a preliminary investigation, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) disclosed that the three-storey building collapsed due to a crash of one of the pillars of the building by a concrete mixer resulting in a loss of balance in the building.

Nanakrom incident

When the Daily Graphic visited the scene of the incident at Nanakrom last Friday, it noticed that there were police officers on guard protecting the affected structure.

Portions of the untarred road in front of the house had been red-taped blocking access to vehicles and other residents.

The Daily Graphic team also observed that the collapse of the three-storey, which was an extension, had affected parts of the original completed single storey on the land.

It also toppled portions of the fence wall to the left of the property.

Eyewitness said the platforms mounted to aid construction works on the structures collapsed a few minutes before the building itself came down last Thursday afternoon, with one of the workers managing to escape though he sustained some injuries.

It took a team made up of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces, Ghana Fire Service (GFS), Ghana Police Service, and Ghana National Dog Academy (GNAD) to help rescue the person who was trapped under the rubble on Friday morning.

Investigation

Following the incident at Nanakrom, the Engineering Council of Ghana has launched a full investigation to establish the cause of the collapse of the uncompleted structure, after an initial investigation showed that the owner extended the approved two-storey on the blind side of the Adentan Municipal Assembly (AdMA).

Already, a team made up of experienced engineers has been established to conduct detailed investigations by assessing the integrity of the foundation, concrete and reinforcement of the affected structure.

The council, which is an agency under the Ministry of Works and Housing (MoWH), has directed that the place remained cordoned off in order not to disturb the composition of the rubble on site to facilitate smooth and efficient investigations.

Findings of the investigations which are likely to last for about a week would be tabled before the assembly to apply the necessary sanctions against persons found culpable.

Preliminary investigations

The Registrar of the council, Wise Ametefe, in an interview with the Daily Graphic yesterday, observed that the Engineering Council of Ghana had already commenced preliminary investigations into the incident.

The AdMA has done well by not disturbing the evidence at site, thus making forensic investigations easier, unfortunately that was not the case in the incident that happened at the SDA area in the La Nkwantanang Municipality of the Madina Constituency.

We were on site on Friday to confirm the collapse and we will return on Tuesday to commence detailed investigations, he said.

Mr Ametefe said the preliminary investigations into the collapse of the building indicated that the owner extended the approved storey without permit.

He said based on the investigation, the team from the council noticed that the approved permit for the building was two-storey but the owner extended it to three without informing the assembly.

When enquired from the assembly, the registrar explained that AdMA informed the council that it approved the building, but it appeared that the owner developed the structure beyond what was approved.

The AdMA tells us the approved permit was for a two-storey, but the owner extended on his own to the third storey, he said.

Mr Ametefe said among the things the committee would be looking out for were the integrity of the foundation, whether the concrete mixture met the approved requirements or not, and also the reinforcement.

We are going to test the foundation to see whether it is a foundation problem. We will test the concrete and if possible, even the reinforcement, he said.

He added that the outcome of the investigations would establish if there was any foul play to inform possible sanctions.

No speculation

In an interview with the Daily Graphic last Friday, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of AdMA, Alexander Nii Noi Adumuah, who confirmed the development, said the assembly was awaiting investigations from the council to ascertain exactly what led to the collapse of the structures.

He explained that for now, any reason assigned to the collapse of the structures by anyone may be speculation until the full investigations were successfully completed.

On whether the owner secured a permit for the building in question, he said:I am informed that they have a permit to build from the assembly.

I am also informed that before they secured the permit, the owner was asked to produce Fire and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certificates.
Congratulations ASP Beatrice Sintim Koree

Daily Graphic May - 08 - 2023 , 10:35

I wish to congratulate ASP Beatrice Sintim Koree on the hard work she is performing at the Mankessim roundabout in the Mfantsiman Municipality.

She deserves this for many reasons.

Before she came there, there was congestion at the circle, creating heavy traffic.

Just when one is about to enter Mankessim, either from the Accra or Takoradi highway, drivers spent hours on end, passing through Mankessim to their destinations.

Those travellers coming to Mankessim at times alighted from the vehicle, way before the Mankessim roundabout, to walk to destinations.

Thieves capitalised on the situation, particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which are market days in Mankessim.

It was very frustrating and unbearable.

To top it all, drivers also capitalised on the situation and were indisciplined, driving on the shoulders of the road.

With ASP Korees arrival at the scene, she quickly set up an office at the roundabout to check traffic offences.

Drivers were not allowed to load at the roadside, and traders were prohibited from selling in the inner circle, and again, discouraged from displaying their wares on the metal barriers around the circle.

Often, one saw the ASP herself removing children's footwear from the metals.

For every short distance, one would find a policewoman/policeman standing, checking drivers, traders and pedestrians.

She does not sit in her office. Instead, she moves about often, with her officers.

In her activities, she advises drivers and traders to do the right thing.

She is, indeed, a professional woman, very efficient in her duties and worthy of emulation by our young ladies.

As l write, there is sanity and free flow of traffic at the roundabout.

As some appreciate her work, others criticise, insult and even give her names.

Many of us are of the notion that the work of the government must be done in a lackadaisical manner.

When some of us are employed, instead of working hard to enhance the status of the company and expanding it, we rather think of finding every means to enrich ourselves and finally collapse it.

Let's work hard like this police officer, ASP Koree.

My advice to Madam, and her able policemen/policewomen assisting her, is that they should not bow to the whims and caprices of the resenting few.

Just as God told Joshua not to fear, but to be of good courage, so will l tell the ASP not to bow to any intimidation, but to continue with her men and women in the good job being done.

Once again, congratulations to you and your hard-working women and men.

May the Almighty God bless you all and guide you.
MBABANE - Chairman of Bemdzabu Bamunye Eswatini and Witch Doctors Association Makhanya Makhanya says removal of mourning gowns before the allotted time is against the ancestral law and God.

Widowed women, especially those married through Eswatini Law and Custom, wear mourning gowns for at least two years in respect of their deceased husbands, though some families cut this period to even six months. The mourning period could be shorter than two years, depending on the agreement between the wifes family and her in-laws. Wives are not forced to wear the mourning gowns but a decision is taken during discussions between the wife and her in-laws. Makhanya said the wrongful removal of the mourning gowns might attract the wrath of God and ancestors.

Wrongdoers

He said the unfortunate thing was that the wrath could not only be limited to the wrongdoers but to the whole community if not the whole country. He said the common feature of ancestral and Gods wrath was heavy storms. Makhanya was interviewed following the proposal made by Lutsango LwakaNgwane before the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Portfolio Committee, during stakeholder submissions in Parliament last week. During the submissions, Lutsango LwakaNgwane, which is the regiment of women, said the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) should consider that widowed women, who were in mourning during the electoral year, be permitted to remove their gowns to participate in the elections freely. The women were of the view that widows were indirectly discriminated against in the electoral process, hence the proposal to the EBC.

It should be noted that the Chairperson of the portfolio committee, Kwaluseni MP Sibusiso Mabhanisi Dlamini, responded that mourning gowns were in-line with Eswatini custom and that they did not want to be seen participating in processes that would clash with the traditional custom. Makhanya said under no circumstances should anyone in power allow women of the country to defy the ancestral law and God in the name of human rights. Without being seen as going against human rights, it is important to call people to order if they go wrong. Wearing mourning gowns is not by choice, so people cannot remove thwm by choice. A mourning gown is a siSwati way in which women grieve the loss of their husbands. Wearing a mourning gown means that a wife commits herself to mourn her husband and further respects him for a certain period after death, he said.

The chairman said women who understood the significance of a mourning gown knew that mourning went beyond the gown. He said even if not in their mourning gowns, the women knew that they had to forfeit their right to freedom of participation in respect of their husbands. However, he said the notion applied to those who valued and respected their husbands during their lifetime. Widowed women can participate in the national elections, nominate and vote but they cannot stand for the elections pending the completion of their mourning period. It is not only in the national elections where widowed women can forfeit their right to freedom of participation, he said. Makhanya made an example that inasmuch as every woman had a right to love a person of her choice; widowed women forfeited their right for a certain period after losing their husbands.

Mourning

He said a widowed woman was not expected to fall in love and give birth to a child of another man during the mourning period. Makhanya stated that if that happened, that woman attracted the wrath of God and ancestors. He said widowed women knew that they could not be seen in hangout spots and partying in their mourning gowns. The husbands family can grab the gowns from her because the wife would have ridiculed her husband and his family, he said. Makhanya urged widowed women to wait for another chance to stand for the national elections if the exercise took place during the course of their mourning period. He stated that widowed women needed thorough cleansing during the removal of the mourning gowns.

He made an example that a goat had to be slaughtered for its blood, bile and dung (umswane) to ensure that the woman was cleansed and ready to live her life after the long wait.

There is no way a widowed woman can win elections during the mourning period. They can just join the race to waste time, he said. A senior citizen, who preferred to speak on condition of anonymity, pleaded with Lutsango to engage properly before discussing cultural affairs. He said Lutsango was the last regiment to propose something that clashed with Eswatini customs.
EPA to close down churches operating without licence in Volta Region

Alberto Mario Noretti May - 08 - 2023 , 06:49

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has threatened to close down churches operating in unauthorised areas and without permit from the agency in the Volta Region.

According to the agency, it only granted permit to churches to operate within specific areas in communities.

The Volta Regional Director of EPA, Hope Smith Lomotey, said churches were also required to renew their permits regularly to enable them to continue with their operations.

He said that measure had become necessary following the growing trend of churches sited in unauthorised places in the region in recent times, causing noise and other forms of nuisance to residents, especially at night.

The director was speaking to the Daily Graphic in Ho after the agency had ended a series of meetings with about 200 church leaders in the region on issues of building permit and noisemaking.

Among those engaged were the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), the Christian Council of Ghana, the National Association of Charismatic Churches and the National Clergy Association Ghana (NACAG).

Rationale

Mr Allotey said that the discomfort of prolonged noise was a public health issue, for which reason the agency would not look on unconcerned when churches or other groups carried out such lawless acts with impunity.

The same goes for drinking spot operators, he added.

The director said apart from hearing impairment, loud noise could also cause high blood pressure, heart diseases, sleep disorders and stress for people within the neighbourhood.

He said the permitted noise level in the day (6a.m.-10p.m.) for residential areas was 55 decibels and 48 decibels during the night.

Adherence

In one of the meetings in Ho, the Vice-Chairman of the GPCC, Apostle Dr Dela Quampah, urged churches to respect the laws of the land and adhere to building regulations.

He said Christians must be law-abiding at all times and also desist from noisemaking.

Apostle Dr Quampah also expressed misgivings over what he described as noisy public address systems on roofs of some church buildings.

He said such equipment were contributing to noisemaking and must, therefore, be restricted.
'I only touched Major Mahamas trousers'- Alleged killer tells court

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson May - 08 - 2023 , 20:11

One of the 14 persons accused of killing Major Maxwell Adam Mahama has testified that he only touched the trousers of the military officer but did not play any role in his lynching.

Emmanuel Badu, who identified himself as a mason, said on May 29, 2017, he was passing through Denkyira Obuasi in the Central Region on his way to Sefwi Bekwai for work when he saw a crowd chasing a supposed armed robber and that, although he picked a stone, he did not throw it, nor did he partake in the lynching.

When queried by the prosecutor, Frances Mullen Ansah, a Chief State Attorney, that he (Badu) took an active part in the lynching and pelted Major Mahama with stones, the accused person insisted that he only touched the trousers of the soldier and asked him (Major Mahama) where he came from.

Badu, who is the 12th accused person, made the assertions at the High Court in Accra Monday, when he opened his defence, reports Graphic Online's Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson from the court.

Alleged lynching

Major Mahama was killed at Denkyira Obuasi in the Central Region on May 29, 2017.

He was said to have been lynched during a morning walk that led him to the community.

Fourteen people, including the then Assembly member for the area, William Baah, are standing trial in connection with the death of the military officer.

They have all pleaded not guilty to charges ranging from murder, abetment to murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.

Cross-examination

Led by his lawyer, George Bernard Shaw, Badu told the court that he was arrested at Elubo in the Western Region after the killing of Major Mahama.

During crossexamination, Badu confirmed to the court that he indeed told the police that on May 29, 2017, he was travelling from Ayanfuri to Sefwi Bekwai in a commercial car but the vehicle was caught up in traffic at Denkyira Obuasi.

According to him, he got to know that the traffic was as a result of an armed robber who was being chased by the townsfolk, a situation, which, he said, made people in the car to run helter-skelter.

The accused person further confirmed that he saw some people chasing the said armed robber with sticks and stones and, therefore, he decided to follow them.

Mrs Mullen Ansah then put to the accused person that he took an active part in the lynching and that he (Badu) told the police in his statement that he picked a stone to throw at Major Mahama.

That was strongly objected by Mr Shaw, who accused the prosecutor of misleading the court, adding that what his client told the police and as captured in the statement was that he had the intention to throw the stone but did not throw the stone.

The presiding judge, Justice Mariama Owusu, a Justice of the Supreme Court with additional responsibility as a Justice of the High Court, overruled the objection and told counsel that he should allow the accused person to answer the question and not answer the question for him.

The prosecutor further put to the accused person that he was a cardinal player in the lynching, which he denied.

Below is an excerpt of what ensued in court

Prosecutor: Im putting it to you that on May 29, 2917, you took an active part in the lynching of Major Mahama

Badu: That is not true. I even left the scene before I heard that he was dead

Prosecutor: You chased Major Mahama with a stone and eventually hit him with a stone

Badu: That is not true

Prosecutor: Im putting it to you that you acted together with the other accused persons to intentionally cause unlawful harm to Captain Mahama which resulted in his death .

Badu: That is not true. I do not come from the town and do not reside in that town. I was in a vehicle passing through the town.

Hearing continues on May 22, this year for the remaining accused persons to open their defence.
Nation records reduction in neonatal, maternal mortalities

Shirley Asiedu-Addo May - 08 - 2023 , 06:40

There has been a decrease in neonatal and institutional maternal mortalities in the country. While the former decreased from 7.1 per 10,000 births to 6.5 per 10,000 births last year, institutional maternal mortality ratio (IMMR), also reduced marginally from 111 per 100,000 live births to 102 per 100,000 over the period.

The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, who made this known, said although the figures seemed marginal, they were remarkable gains.

He, therefore, commended midwives and other health personnel for their tireless efforts in achieving this feat, adding that there had also been significant improvement in maternal and newborn health outcomes over the last decade.

The Director-General was addressing delegates at the 32nd International Day of the Midwife in Cape Coast in the Central Region, on the theme: Together again, from evidence to reality.

Awards were also given to 22 midwives, one each from the 16 regions and five from Teaching Hospitals in the country for their dedication to duty.

Dr Kuma-Aboagye further disclosed that total maternal deaths decreased by some 70 maternal lives saved, moving from 875 deaths in 2021 to 805 deaths at the close of 2022.

He added that the midwife to women in fertility age (WIFA) ratio had also been improving, moving from one midwife to 720 women in fertility age in 2017, to one midwife to 387 women in fertility age in 2021.

According to Dr Kuma-Aboagye, haemoglobin checks at registration and the incidence of anaemia in late pregnancy (36 weeks) had also been on a decline over the past couple of years, while skilled delivery coverage and antenatal care (ANC) clients making fourth visits had been on an increasing trajectory over the years.

He said the absolute number of midwives in the country had now surpassed the World Health Organisations standard of six to seven midwives per 1,000 institutional deliveries by almost two folds.

The nation currently has 13 midwives per 1,000 institutional deliveries.

Restructuring

Dr Kuma-Aboagye, however, said that there was an urgent need to restructure the health system to promote midwifery leadership at all levels.

We, as a matter of urgency, need to restructure our health system to promote midwifery leadership at all levels, embrace midwifery innovation, encourage evidence-based practice and institute the character of empathy in our midwives, allowing for the practice to be guided by the sensitivities of our clients.

Midwives continue to work under harsh conditions, oftentimes at the peril of their own progress and cost to their families.

If we intend to attain the maternal and newborn health outcomes we desire, we would need to come together once more and move from the glaring evidence that midwives indeed save lives to addressing the challenges that confront midwives in reality, he said.

A deputy Minister of Health, Tina Mensah, commended the midwives for working to save lives and supporting policies aimed at enhancing health service delivery despite their challenges.

Condition of service

The President of the Ghana Registered Midwives Association, Netta Forson Ackon, called for better conditions of service to empower members to give of their best.

The UNFPA Country Representative, Dr David Wilfred Ochan, described midwives as frontline heroes and urged stakeholder agencies to work to scale up best practices to help achieve zero preventable deaths.
Pay taxes to support development - EOCO boss to businesses

Daily Graphic May - 08 - 2023 , 07:37

The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwa Addo- Danquah, has encouraged business owners to pay taxes as their civic responsibility towards the countrys socio-economic development.

She said the filing of their annual returns and the payment of appropriate taxes would help the state raise the needed resources to fund the various socio-economic projects in the country.

The point is, other countries have made it because of taxes and we should also do it.

We should not always be concealing things from the tax man so that whatever we have to pay, we pay that, she said at a gathering in Techiman, the Bono East capital last Friday.

She was addressing a gathering at an event to inaugurate the Bono East Regional office of EOCO in Techiman.

The Bono East Office sited at Twimia Nkwanta, Techiman, was made operational in 2020 with one desk officer and support from the Sunyani office.

Now, the new regional office has been complemented with a regional director of EOCO as well as eight additional officers.

The new office is intended to help EOCO to prevent and detect organised crimes as well as facilitate the confiscation of the proceeds of crime.

Present at the inauguration were the Municipal Chief Executive of the Techiman Municipal Assembly, Benjamin Yaw Gyarko; the Techiman Office Manager of GRA, Charles Boasiako Antwi, and the Regional Budget Analyst, Peter Owusu, who sat in for the regional minister.

Also present were the Municipal Police Commander, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Emmanuel Ofori Regional Commander of NIB, Augustine Ofori; and some selected Techiman-based businessmen and women.

Taxes necessary

COP Addo- Danquah said taxes were essential for the day-to-day running of the state and as such the business community must pay their quota to enable the government to undertake projects.

I encourage the business community to know that we are obligated to pay our taxes.

Let us always remember that little drops of taxes make a mighty nation.

You should also remember that you as a businessman cannot construct your own road, you cannot build your own hospitals, and you cannot construct your own terminal or anything.

It is the taxes that government gets that it uses to provide all these amenities for all of us.

So we must ensure that we pay what we are obligated to pay and we should not hide anything from the tax man and we should be good citizens of the nation, she added.

Regional mandate of EOCO

The EOCO boss further said the new office would enhance security and fight against economic, financial and other serious offences in Bono East Region, which is a busy commercial area.

Also, it would facilitate the offices efforts to carry out its mandate in a decentralised manner.

Most of the time, the Auditor General comes out with a report indicating that millions of Ghana cedis have been lost to the state.

EOCO, backed by its mandate, takes the report of every region and investigates them, indicating that in 2022, the Bono East Office was able to make some recoveries from the proceeds of crimes.

She thus called for full collaboration from all partner agencies in the region in order for EOCO to fulfil its mandate.

The Twimiahene & Sannahene of Techiman, Nana Ankomah Frimpong, who chaired the function, commended the EOCO for prioritising setting up an office in the region, saying it was important to help curb economic and financial crimes in Techiman.
Mahama: I'll amend constitution to allow dual citizens to be Parliamentarians

Graphic.com.gh Politics May - 08 - 2023 , 12:31

Former President John Dramani Mahama says when given the nod, the next National Democratic Congress (NDC) government will amend the constitution to enable dual citizens to be able to go to Parliament.

"When NDC comes to power, we are going to clarify that constitutional provision that compels them [dual citizens] to give up their foreign citizenship before they contest elections."

"A country's human resource is its best resource, and we [Ghana] happen to have about three million of our citizens abroad, they have acquired experience, they have acquired different talents. And why should we have a law that says that if you going to be an MP [Member of Parliament] in Ghana, you must give up your dual citizenship, meanwhile we have a dual citizenship law.

The former president, said the injunction placed on the Member of Parliament for Assin North, Gyekye Quayson, from carrying out himself as a Member of Parliament amounts to "injustice and an affront to Ghanas democracy which has deprived the constituents of representation in Parliament."

He made these statements in Tamale where he addressed NDC members as part of his campaign tour in the Northern Region.

We have seen the cardinal sin of the 4th Republic which is the disenfranchisement of the people of SALL. For one whole term, they have not had a member of parliament. Lets put that aside, the people of Assin North elected a person to represent them in Parliament. This government has manipulated the judiciary in such a way that they have injuncted the MP for Assin North. So even though he is the elected member, he cannot perform the duties of an MP. That is a gross injustice and an affront to our democracy.

But I want to assure the people of Ghana and James Gyakye Quayson, who is our MP for Assin North, that when NDC comes to power, we will clarify that constitutional provision that compels them to give up their foreign citizenship before they contest elections. A countrys human resource is its best resource. We happen to have three million of our citizens abroad, they have acquired skills and different talents. Why must we have a law that bars them when we have a dual citizenship law? We will clarify it, so they can come and stand for parliamentary seats and hold offices in Ghana, they dont have to give up their other citizenships to be able to hold office, he assured.

This government has been an abysmal failure. It is the worst government in the history of the 4th Republic. Not only have they mismanaged our economy, but their governance record is also poor. Just recently they released the press freedom index. Last year we fell by 30 places, this year we have fallen another 10 places down. It means that our media expression is in danger, journalists lives are in danger, and there are reports of torture and harassment of journalists. This used not to happen under NDC. Everybody had the freedom to express themselves under NDC. Unfortunately, those freedoms are being infringed upon by Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, Mr. Mahama slammed.
The youth need jobs, agric sector holds the key  Dr. Afriyie Akoto

GraphicOnline Politics May - 08 - 2023 , 22:27

The agriculture sector has been identified as the key to unlocking massive unemployment among the youth in Ghana, according to Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, a flagbearer hopeful of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Speaking at a Town Hall Meeting organized by the NPP, Canada branch, Dr. Afriyie Akoto noted that Ghana only needs to make the right investment to unleash the potential of the sector.

He emphasized that the job opportunities in the agriculture sector are enormous and include industrialization, agro processing, advertising, among others. Dr. Afriyie Akoto insisted that with proper investment, the fortunes of Ghana could be transformed.

Dr. Afriyie Akoto's vision is targeted at the youth. He believes that to have an impact on the youth is to create job opportunities for them, and the agriculture sector holds the key. He made this observation on Monday, May 7, 2023, when he interacted with the party faithful on his vision for the UP Tradition and Ghana as a whole.

My vision is really targeted at the youth. To have an impact on the youth is to create job opportunities for them. They youth really need jobs and the agriculture sector holds the key, he noted.

Responding to a question about the fate of NPP youth under his leadership, Dr. Afriyie Akoto noted that the approach to addressing the myriads of unemployment issues confronting the youth has to do with pragmatic policies. He assured the audience that under his leadership, he will put in place policies that prioritize investment in the agriculture sector.

Dr. Afriyie Akoto proposed setting up an Agriculture Management Team under his leadership as President of Ghana. The team will consist of seven notable ministries related to agriculture, including the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization and Rural Development, Ministry of Roads and Highways, and Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation.

He also expressed disappointment with the declining fortunes of the poultry industry, which he has little control over due to international trade challenges. Dr. Afriyie Akoto acknowledged the challenges that poultry farmers have faced over the years, such as the high cost of poultry feed. However, he emphasized that Ghana's production of soy has gone up from 150,000 metric tons to 230,000 metric tons, and that international trade is a significant factor in the challenges facing the poultry industry.

I know the challenge the poultry farmers have gone through over the years to the extent that prices of poultry feed have more than doubled in some cases. Some have attributed the challenge to lack of enough maize whiles others too are saying it has to do with unavailability of soya beans. Well, our production of soy has gone up from 150,000 metric tons to 230,000 metric tons and that is no mean an achievement. The thing is that a lot of these things have to do with international trade. We are bringing chicken into this country at something like GHS14.00 per kilo when the total cost of production as we are speaking is more than GHS35.00 per kilo. With that, I cannot see how anybody can produce chicken in the European Union or America. You put it in a ship, brig it all the way to Tema and charge GHS14.00. Obviously, there is some distortionary burden somewhere, he said.

Dr. Afriyie Akoto's proposals were well received by the audience, who saw them as pragmatic solutions to the unemployment crisis facing Ghana's youth.

His vision for the agriculture sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation resonated with many, and his proposal to set up an Agriculture Management Team has been praised as a bold and innovative approach to tackling the challenges facing the sector.
Well deal with developers without permit  La Nkwantanang-Madina MCE

Ezekiel E. Sottie Politics May - 08 - 2023 , 12:38

The La Nkwantanang- Madina Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Jennifer Dede Adjabeng, has said the assembly will deal severely with developers that will be found not to have obtained permits.

That, she said, was to ensure law and order in the area.

The assembly is ready to hit the ground to take on all developers operating without a permit. Meanwhile, the incident that occurred at the West Adenta Electoral Area is what I describe as an unfortunate situation, the MCE said.

Briefing the media about a collapsed building in the municipality, the MCE said the developer in question violated the law of the assembly, resulting in an avoidable incident.

Disaster

According to Mrs Adjabeng, on Monday, May 1 at about 3:00 p.m., she had a distress call from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) Director of the assembly concerning a disaster which occurred at the West Adenta Electoral Area.

She said when she and her team followed up on the incident, they saw a land developer and his workers trapped in the building that collapsed on them, with one person dead and eight others injured. She said the injured ones were rushed to the 37 Military Hospital for medical attention.

The MCE explained that according to investigations, on April 20, 2023, the workers in the works department of the assembly discovered that the developer was working without a permit and he was consequently summoned to the assembly for him to go through the processes but he blatantly refused the invitation.

Incident

What caused the incident was that though he left the site when he was cautioned, he decided to use the long weekend, including the Monday, which was a holiday, to work to outsmart the assembly but was unlucky, the MCE explained.

She said from what they saw at the site as laymen, the concrete was not dry and the developer was adding another storey on top of the building, a situation which brought about the collapse of the structure.

She further explained that once the building collapsed and human life was lost, it became a criminal issue that was being handled by the police.

She said the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) of the assembly decided to fully collaborate with the police to ensure that the matter was fully investigated and the developer brought to book to serve as a deterrent to other potential developers who would fail to liaise wih the assembly.

We have had many instances where developers took matters into their own hands at the blind side of the assembly and did their own thing.

However, with the current incident as a test case, the assembly would ensure that developers cooperate with us and wait patiently for their documents to be completed. Submission of application alone is not the end of the process, she insisted.

Institutions

She assured that the assembly would liaise with other state institutions and agencies to determine the actual cause of the collapsed structure, which brought about the loss of life.

The MCE said the assembly was mandated to see to the approval of applications for building permits every month and that there was, therefore, no need to hide buildings they intended to put up from the assembly.

Come to us and let us help you to get your permits to avoid incidents such as what happened in the municipality, she said.
MANZINI  The National Public Service and Allied Workers Union (NAPSAWU) is in the dark on the developments.

President of NAPSAWU Oscar Nkambule said they were not aware of this development. He said their understanding was that things were being addressed to revive the responsibilities of the Central Transport Administration (CTA). On the other hand, in a previous interview, Secretary General (SG) Thulani Hlatshwayo said they anticipated government to pay terminal benefits of all the workers before any transition ensued.

Study

Hlatshwayo said this following that this publication reported that government was set to embark on a study, which could lead to the shutdown of the CTA as its functions maybe transferred to other entities. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport recently flighted an advertisement, expressing its intention to modernise the management and use of the government fleet to achieve operation efficiency and improved service delivery. It expressed a wish to engage an experienced fleet management consulting firm, whose technical team would be in possession of relevant training and demonstrating a clear track record of experience in planning, designing and executing a complete fleet management solution of this magnitude. In light of this, Hlatshwayo said the union was anticipating that its members would be engaged and that the Central Transport Organisation (CTO) Act would be followed.

The CTO Act was enacted to state the transition of CTA into a parastatal as government was abolishing the former.

Assets

The CTO Act Section 42 (1) states that all assets utilised by the CTO, which are currently owned by the government, are to be transferred to the organisation at zero value. On the other hand, Hlatshwayo said they were abreast with the abolishment of the Roads Department, which shall make way for the National Road Agency, which shall soon start operating. We expect workers of CTA to be paid out fairly before those who would want to be retained in the civil service may reapply, Hlatshwayo said. He said this was what was agreed on through the CTO Act. Meanwhile, this publication has gathered that the Robert Magongo-led Ministry of Public Works and Transport Portfolio Committee visited the CTA departments to assess the assets in its possession and further establish what government needed to do.
The Poco F5 series is making it global debut tomorrow, but the company's UAE branch jumped the gun and uploaded the two phones on its website today. The Poco F5 and Poco F5 Pro's specs and images are thus fully revealed, and we are just missing the prices, which will be confirmed tomorrow.

Poco F5 Pro

The Poco F5 Pro comes with a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset and three memory combinations. It might look familiar, and thats because it is essentially the China-only Redmi K60, but with Google Services and slighlty smaller battery.

The screen is 6.67 AMOLED with WQHD+ resolution - that is 3200 x 1440 pixels with 526 ppi, the highest density ever for a Poco smartphone. The panel supports 120Hz refresh rate and 480Hz touch sampling rate. There is a fingerprint scanner underneath and Gorilla Glass 5 protection on top.

The back has a 64MP main camera with Omnivision OV64B sensor, f/1.8 aperture and 6P lens, an 8MP ultrawide-angle shooter with 120-degree FoV and a 2MP macro camera. The camera setup supports OIS+EIS, a feature not widely available on Poco devices and making the F5 Pro slightly more attractive to camera enthusiasts.

The selfie shooter inside the punch hole has a 16MP sensor, but is limited to 1080p video recording.

Poco is quite proud of the 5000 sq.mm. LiquidCool VC which is a mix of stainless steel vapor chambers and graphite layers to improve heat conductivity up to 15%, compared with previous Poco F smartphones.

The battery of the Poco F5 Pro is listed as 5,160 mAh, which is lower than the 5,500 mAh cell on the Redmi K60, despite keeping the 67W wired charging and 30W wireless charging. OS is Android 13 with MIUI 14 on top.

The Poco F5 Pro will be available in the UAE in White or Black with carbon-imitating finish. Storage and RAM options are 8/256 GB, 12/256 GB, and 12/512 GB. We have to wait until tomorrows event to see whether other markets will get more colors and memory options.

Poco F5

The vanilla F5 has another Qualcomm chipset, but this time it is the mid-range Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 that has one CPU at 2.9 GHz. Storage is 256GB, while RAM is either 8GB or 12GB.

The Poco F5 has the same size 6.67 AMOLED panel of 120Hz refresh rate, although the resolution here is 1080p.

The rear camera setup consists of a 64MP unknown main sensor, 8MP ultrawide unit and 2MP macro camera. OIS and EIS are still present, but the fact that sensor isn't confirmed suggests a downgrade compared to the Pro. The selfie camera's specs read 16MP resolutio and f/2.45 aperture.

The Poco F5 weighs just 181 grams with a 7.9 mm profile. The battery of the Poco F5 is 5,000 mAh and supports 67W charging. Other features include Android 13 with MIUI 14 on top, NFC, IR blaster, NFC and Bluetooth 5.3.

If all these specs look familiar, that is because the hardware is shared with another China-only phone - the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Turbo.



Poco F5 in Black, Blue, White

The Emirati website has the phone in three colors - Black, Blue, and the hero color White with dual-color gradient offset printing to imitate ice-cold design.

Source 1  Source 2
Having returned to the top of our trending chart the Samsung Galaxy A54 built a commanding lead this time around as the Xiaomi 13 Ultra lost some of its interest and dropped down the ranks.

That allowed the Galaxy S23 Ultra to get second place, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro rounded up the rostrum.

Redmi Note 12 come in fourth and Apple's iPhone 14 Pro Max also benefited from the Xiaomi flagship's slip up to capture fifth.

We find last week's runner-up in sixth, just ahead of the Tecno Spark 10 Pro.

A couple more Samsung phones follow - Galaxy A34 and Galaxy S23, while the Realme C55 completes the top 10. This leaves the Realme 11 Pro+ out, but we have little doubt it will be back once its official announcement comes next week.

Will the flurry of new hardware be enough to dethrone the Galaxy A54 once again though? Check back next week to find out!
The federal government continues to shortchange Guam in its reimbursement to the island for the impact of migrants from the Freely Associated States as part of the Compact Impact of Free Association agreements negotiated with the FAS by the United States, according to a statement from Guam Delegate James Moylan, released on May 6.

The Guam delegate said there continues to be a need for a healthy discussion and Education campaign with the administration and Congress about the need to provide mandatory appropriations to offset the cost of the migrant impact to Guam.

While Congress is gearing up to address the next 20 years of its relationship with the Freely Associated States, essentially the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Republic of Palau, the Department of Interior released a statement on May 5, noting that it has not requested a continuation of the $3 million to $6 million discretionary fund received by four affected jurisdictions  Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, American Samoa and Hawaii  on top of the mandatory funding of $30 million distributed to affected jurisdictions. The discretionary funding expires at the end of this year.

In the late 1980s, Congress entered into the Compact of Free Association, which allowed, among other things, migrants from the Freely Associated States to live and work in the United States and its territories.

Since then, more than 94,000 migrants from the Freely Associated States are estimated to live and work in the United States and its territories, according to the Department of Interiors statement.

In 2003, Congress enacted the Compacts of Free Association Amendments Act, which kickstarted a 20-year program that addressed the financial impact of Compact migrants in Guam, the CNMI, Hawaii and American Samoa. As a result of the assessments, Congress appropriated additional funding for the three territories and state in 2012, annually up to 2023.

The way the compact funding works is there is $30 million in mandatory Compact Impact funds that are split between the impacted jurisdictions.

Guams position has been that the amount of money it receives every year is insufficient to alleviate the costs of migrant impact, especially as it relates to the impact on health services and education.

DOI, notes in its release, that the Biden-Harris administration supports allowing the Compact migrants to become eligible for key federal safety net programs while residing in the United States and territories, noting that this would be a long-term solution to alleviating financial impacts on states and territories.

Moylan agreed that the federal administrations desire to make migrants eligible for federal safety-net programs is part of the solution to mitigate the impact of migrants in the U.S. and territories, but there seems to be no real effort to provide mandatory reimbursements.

The Guam delegate said there continues to be a need for a healthy discussion and Education campaign with the administration and Congress about the continued need to provide mandatory appropriations to offset the cost of the migrant impact to Guam.

The delegate contends that the federal government still does not cover the cost of migrant impact to Guam.

Our office is also communicating with the DOI to schedule dates for upcoming meetings with their key personnel, and I appreciate their desire to work mutually.
Its a matter of freedom and fun versus the increased risk of flameslawmakers sat down with fire officials Monday to talk about the possible legalization of consumer-grade fireworks.

Sen. Will Parkinson, a former wildland firefighter and supporter of the proposal, summed it up, I go in this with the full knowledge that there is going to be more fires and there is going to be more injury.

Bill 9 would legalize small fireworks like sparklers and smoke bombs. Its sponsor, Sen. Dwayne San Nicolas, has campaigned on the proposal.

Sen. San Nicolas said hes had time to go up and see how the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands handles fireworks regulation.

He said the CNMI began with a free for all on consumer fireworks, similar to what hes so far proposed. But the island has since tightened regulations on storage, transportation, and other areas, Sen. San Nicolas said. Guam could follow suit, and more fines and fees for violators could also be implemented.

But the risk is too high, according to Christine Camacho Fejeran, chief of the Forestry and Soil Resources Division of the Guam Department of Agriculture.

About 4% of the island on average catches on fire on an annual basis, the equivalent of about 8,000 acres, Fejeran said. That average was already over the top compared to the states, with just seven wildland firefighters battling arson and farms that have caught aflame.

We add fireworks back into the menu of fun, I truly believe this would be  I cant even say hazard is being strong enough, Fejeran said, adding that 100% of the local fires are caused by people.

Jeff Sanchez, a fireworks professional with ShowPro Pyrotechnics, was similarly opposed to legalization. Lawmakers should look to Hawaii, Sanchez said, where the legalization of consumer fireworks had run amok and the sky was alight with illegal commercial fireworks on any given holiday.

The minute you start to legalize the small stuff, then the medium stuff starts coming, then the big stuff, and then pretty soon its out of control, he said.

All fireworks are gunpowder at the end of the day, Sanchez said. About 120 pounds, whats needed for a 10-minute fireworks show, would create devastation in a 3,000-foot radius if it went off improperly.

Acting Fire Chief Joey San Nicolas, took a different approach, however. While the Guam Fire Department was very hesitant to support legalization, if people wanted it, I already see this as its going to happen, he said.

He said that if legalization was going to happen, it should happen safely. GFD had a laundry list of recommendations for Bill 9, including a request to slow down rollout, limit sales to holidays like July 4, limit the number of wholesale licenses to four or five, and limiting firework retail stocks to 125 pounds.

More fines and fees on regulation violators were also requested, to keep up with enforcement costs.

GFD also wants to track the number of injuries and incidents caused during the first year of legalization, said Assistant Fire Chief Tom Tedtaotao, to get a handle on the impact.

We know that thats probably going to be the year thats  going to have the most accidents, Tedtaotao said.

Fire Committee Chair Sen. Parkinson said that safety had to be balanced against freedom, but added that the issue may not be with consumer-grade fireworks, but with Guams capacity to respond to fires.

If we cant sustain a weekend of fireworks, we dont have a system strong enough to be reliable in a real emergency situation, Parkinson said, adding that the fire response system may need to be hardened.
MANZINI  About E100 million is set to be used to procure government vehicles.

The money was set aside in the national budget in order to deal with the challenges revolving around service delivery. The government fleet has been in disarray since the 11th Parliament came into office. According to impeccable sources, the new fleet is anticipated to be with government within the next three months. The sources relayed to this publication that it was projected that the vehicles should be with government before the national elections. The amount set aside for the acquisition of the government fleet was confirmed by the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg. He said: We have about E100m in the CTA (Central Transport Administration) budget for the purchase of vehicles. The Ministry of Works is working on a smart plan to better leverage the budget for better long-term outcomes. Meanwhile, last Tuesday, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, through the Eswatini Government Tender Board, issued an advert calling upon companies to express interest for government fleet leasing and financing.

The Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe-led ministry stated that it intended to engage a firm for the provision of government fleet lease financing for a period ranging between three and five years. The key requirements for the firms to be considered were said to include relevant qualification of staff proposed for the project and demonstrable experience. It was also stated that the firm must demonstrate its capacity in fleet lease and financing. The sources said this was an effort set to stop the abuse of vehicles and the high expenses in managing the fleet. They said government would now deal with companies which would lease and finance its fleet. This move by government is subsequent to a study which was seen as a move leading to the shutdown of the CTA. In February 2023, the ministry embarked on a study, which was said to be a quest to put into order operations at the CTA. At the time, the ministry expressed a wish to engage an experienced fleet management consulting firm, whose technical team would be in possession of relevant training and demonstrating a clear track record of experience in planning, designing and executing a complete fleet management solution of this magnitude.

Expression

Meanwhile, in light of the call for expression of interest for government fleet leasing and financing, sources informed this publication that it had been established that it was more viable to lease the fleet. The sources said this would absolve government of having to maintain the fleet. The sources said this would soon be the responsibility of the firm which shall win the tender. It was gathered that government intended that the firm which shall win the tender would also provide a fleet management service. This was said to be means of closing the leaks in the bulging expenditure in terms of maintenance and also having the fleet being abused by some personnel.

The sources claimed that this would improve service delivery as the available vehicles would be set for the tasks they would be needed for, instead of having a high number of vehicles, which spent most of the time being fixed. It was gathered from the sources that this mode of running the fleet would be far cheaper than what government was currently spending in renting vehicles. The sources claimed that the government would use each vehicle for 200 000 kilometres. The anticipation from the ministry, according to sources, is that the government fleet would be in good-shape in the next three years. This period, it was gathered, would have allowed for the replacement of the 3 000 fleet, which half of it has already exceeded its lifespan. Meanwhile, the responsibilities which shall now be taken over by the financiers, who would be leasing and managing the government fleet were under the CTA, which has been a drain to government in terms of resources.

The department, which had its trading account suspended in 2020, has been marred by corruption-related scandals, which include the theft of fuel valued at over E10 million, stealing of automobile parts and failure to fix the government fleet. Despite that its core functions include to purchase, maintain and dispose of government vehicles and other related equipment; as well as to provide fuel for government vehicles. It also rents vehicles for government ministries and departments. This department has five workshop facilities spread across the country and they are located in Mbabane, Matsapha, Nhlangano, Piggs Peak and Siteki. For the efficiency of the government machinery through provision of transport, the CTA has been responsible for a fleet of about 3 000 vehicles ranging from motor cycles, sedans, LDVs, trucks, tractors to heavy specialised construction motorised equipment. On the other hand, the sources said the implementation of the model being adopted by government would also assist government in cutting the wage bill as some of the personnel at CTA would receive packages and stand to tender for government jobs.

Responsibilities

The sources highlighted that since the National Road Agency would soon start operating, it would take over the Roads Departments responsibilities. The Roads Department studies, analyses, design, upgrades, constructs and maintains the national road network which comprises of approximately 1 500km of main roads and approximately 2 268.64km of district roads. The department carries out these functions through a combination of professional services and in-house personnel and equipment. The inhouse personnel are responsible for resealing, regravelling, road marking, clearing the road shoulders, drainages, guardrails, drainages which are important for the extended life of the road and cleaning or repairing culverts and small bridges.The sources said their personnel would be awarded their benefits and be encouraged to establish their own companies to tender for government jobs in fixing roads. They can also buy some of the plant currently used by government to fix roads to engage the required services. As they do that, it will also mean that the mechanics who were responsible for maintaining their plant should also get benefits and start their own companies. It is a chain of job opportunities for many people, said the source.
The next public hospital should not be built at Tamunings Ypao Point, according to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero, who said the area is congested, with no opportunity to expand.

We cant limit ourselves, Leon Guerrero said Monday morning on K-57 radio, more than a week after a proposed lease for military land in Mangilao fell through.

The governor wanted to lease the 112-acre Eagles Field site to build a new 161-bed Guam Memorial Hospital and medical complex, but the attorney general would not sign off on the lease, stating it was legally flawed. Lawmakers later blocked the agreement by passing a law that requires legislative review and approval for the land deal. The Navys offer, to lease the land for up to 75 years, expired April 30.

We are going to build a hospital. We are in the process of looking at other real estate opportunities, Leon Guerrero said Monday. Theres some prospects, but this whole thing with the lease was a disappointment. It was a big disappointment and a big blow to the people of Guam.

I know that Speaker (Therese) Terlajes having a hearing, but only looking at Ypao, the governor said, adding the hospital needs to get out of Tamuning. Theres no opportunity to grow there, she said, including inadequate space to add a proposed veterans clinic.

Ypao Point is the public hospitals former location.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which assessed the existing Guam Memorial Hospital facility in November 2019, recommended that Guam build a replacement hospital at a cost of about $743 million instead of spending $761 million to renovate the current facility.

Lawmakers authorized the governor to build a hospital and medical campus on a lease-to-own basis, but the authorization applies only to a facility built on GovGuam land, according to the attorney general.

The governor has been lobbying federal officials, including the military, to help Guam pay for a new hospital, citing the islands strategic importance and the need to have redundant infrastructure.

I feel very positive about it, the governor said Monday.

I think our leaders need to step back, put aside their political differences, put aside whatever agenda they have, the governor said. The only agenda should be the people of Guam.
MBABANE  Students who will be enrolled under the Eswatini Student Loan Revolving Fund will pay 100 per cent of the loan afforded to them.

Currently, students pay at least 50 per cent of the scholarship afforded to them by government, depending on the agreements that the two parties reached. The new developments were announced by the Chairperson of the Ministry of Finance Portfolio Committee and Lobamba Lomdzala MP, Marwick Khumalo, when moving for the adoption of the report of the Finance Portfolio Committee on the Eswatini Student Loan Revolving Fund Regulations 2023. He shared that now that the money would be collected by the bank, which would be selected by the Ministry of Finance, the loan would be paid in full and would be payable for a period of 20 years. He also shared that students who would be able to repay the loan in 10 years would have a discount of 20 per cent.

Regulations

The regulations of the fund depict that the minister of Finance, in consultation and approval from Cabinet, will appoint a financial institution that shall host the Eswatini Student Loan Revolving Fund account, receive funds and facilitate disbursements for activities approved by the management committee of the fund, recover monies due to the fund and select students who are eligible to benefit from the fund. The regulations also depict that the student loan shall be granted in respect of a particular course of study and not be used for any other purpose. The amount of the loan shall be paid by the fund to the designated institution of higher learning in respect of students study loan and to the student in respect of student assistance or any manner as the parties may agree by way of amounts payable to the institution and or student respectively.

Section 22(1) of the regulations addresses the repayment of the fund as well as the obligations of the employer, where it states that the fund may, through written notice, sent by legally acceptable mode of communication, inform the employer of a borrower that the student is indebted to the fund in consequence of the student loan extended by the fund to the borrower and of the deductions that the employer has to make from the remuneration of the student.

Deductions

Subsection (2) states that an employer who is given notice in terms of Subsection (1) shall make deductions from the remuneration payable to the student according to the scales as may be prescribed by the fund. An amount deducted by an employer in terms of Subsection (2) shall be paid over to the fund and any amount so paid over shall be regarded as a proportionate discharge of the study loan by the borrower concerned. An amount deducted in terms of this section shall for the purposes of the Income Tax Act, 1975 or any other applicable law, be regarded as forming part of the remuneration of the borrower, reads the regulations. It is in Subsection (5), where it states that an employer who fails to make a deduction and payment in accordance with the section is guilty of an offence and on conviction may, in addition to a fine, be ordered to make such deduction and payment. Source of funds for the fund shall consist of monies appropriated by Parliament, donations or contributions, interest as minister responsible for Finance may determine from time-to-time, monies repaid by a borrower and any other lawful income received by the fund.

The fund shall be administered by the principal secretary (PS) in the ministry responsible for loan assistance, and currently, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security is the responsible ministry. When sought for comment, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Simphiwe Gamedze, said it would be hard for government to recover such money (100 per cent) as it was still hard to recover the at least 50 per cent. He said it would be difficult because of the current situation in the country, where most graduates were unemployed, hence unable to repay the government scholarship afforded to them while training in the various tertiary institutions.

Scholarship

Gamedze said it was a pity that inasmuch as paying 100 per cent would be hard for students, but due to their need for scholarship, they would accept it. He said the need for scholarships was dire in the country as most students were not affording to cater for the expensive tuition fees in the various tertiary institutions. Gamedze said it was also painful that those who needed the scholarship the most were not awarded. Ngwane Teachers Training College Student Representative Council (SRC) President Innocent Shongwe said students were not pleased by this change, which would see them paying 100 per cent of the scholarship awarded to them. He said the reason they were not pleased was because there were currently no jobs in the country and even those who were employed were paid peanuts. He said, therefore, paying 100 per cent would be hard as it was already hard to pay the 50 per cent.

Shongwe said for a student to pay 100 per cent of the scholarship would mean that the students, would be delayed in developing themselves upon getting employed. The president said due to the ailing economy, they expected government to reduce the repayment to at least 25 per cent. He said after all, the scholarship was the taxpayers money, hence it should come back to help the very taxpayers who were the parents in this case.

Catered

Eswatini Medical Christian University (EMCU) SRC President Samkeliso Maseko noted that the Student Loan Revolving Fund would be catered for by banking institutions unlike government, hence the changes. Maseko said it was unfortunate that the banking institutions would not be able to understand the students need for the support, which included affordability. The president said, therefore, it would be hard for students to deal with banking institutions as they would require the students to repay the money no matter the situation the student was facing. The Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) Secretary General (SNUS), Almighty Sukati, said if the Eswatini Student Loan Revolving Fund would accommodate every student who had been admitted to any tertiary institution, then it was welcome. Sukati said the issue of repaying 100 per cent would not be a case if the students would be employed just after completing their studies. He said in order to enable the operation of the fund, government should provide the job opportunities for the graduates.




Haiti - Japan : Government of Japan scholarship, pre-registration open





The Cultural Section of the Embassy of Japan in Haiti informs of the opening of pre-registration for the scholarship organized by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sport, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan.



List of documents to submit:



Application form:

https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024JapaneseStudies_Application.pdf



Investment Preference Request Form:

https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024JapaneseStudies_Placement.pdf



Field of study and research plan:

https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024_FieldStudy_Research.pdf



Health certificate:

https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024_HealthCertificate.pdf



Letter of recommendation:

From the rector or academic advisor of the current university or the last university attended (see sample https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024_SampleRecommendation.pdf )



Academic transcript for the entire academic year of the university attended



Certificate of completion or diploma from the university attended



(The following documents are requested only for those who are concerned. )

- Thesis summaries

- Language proficiency certificate

- Letter of recommendation from current employer

- Photograph(s) showing the applicant's own artwork or a digitally recorded musical performance medium



Deadline for submitting applications: June 9, 2023



Send to: culture@ht.mofa.go.jp



Embassy of Japan in Haiti (2nd floor, Hexagon Building, Angle Rues Clerveaux and Darguin, Petion-ville)



Note:



For all enrollment information, please visit the "Study in Japan" website https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/smap-stopj-applications-research.html



Carefully read and follow the Application Guidelines : https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/_mt/2023/04/2024_Guidelines_Research_E.pdf (so you don't miss any of the requirements)



Written exam:

Scheduled for late June / early July at the Japanese Embassy in Haiti. The precise date will be communicated later to the candidates who have passed the pre-selection of files.



For more information write to: culture@ht.mofa.go.jp



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Crises : Statement of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France on Haiti





Statement on the crisis in Haiti by the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, Anne-Claire Legendre



"Haiti is a priority concern for France. We are facing a deep political and security crisis in Haiti, which is having serious consequences for the population, and which is also hampering humanitarian access, in an increasingly degraded economic and social context.



France is mobilized, along with the rest of the international community, both in terms of security, politics and humanitarian issues. According to the national network for the defense of human rights in Haiti, criminal groups control the entire capital.



It is in this context that we have given priority to the restoration of security and greatly increased our support for the National Police of Haiti. It is important that Security Council resolution 2653 be implemented. You know that it introduced a sanctions regime that targets people involved in criminal activities. We are also working on the adoption of a European framework of sanctions which would complement these UN sanctions. So much for the security aspect of this crisis.



In addition, we obviously have a mobilization on issues of political dialogue. There was an agreement on December 21, 2022. It is now a matter of Haitian political actors returning to this dialogue, to quickly appoint a Provisional Electoral Council which will finally make it possible to move towards elections.



On the humanitarian side, on which France is also mobilized, we have increased our humanitarian aid, which for 2023 amounts to 9 million euros, including 5.5 million in food aid, which is particularly critical in the current situation. We are also working on health issues, with an increase in our aid in the fight against cholera, which is also raging in Haiti."



HL/ HaitiLibre


















MBABANE  The Chairperson of Tindvuna Tetinkhundla and Bucopho in the four regions of the country, Bhekisisa Bhembe, says they welcome the proposed amendments.

In an interview with this publication yesterday, Bhembe, who is a community headman under Lobamba Inkhundla said the amendments came at the right time. He said these amendments would mean that an aspiring bucopho would have to speak out and campaign just like any aspirant indvuna yenkhundla and Member of Parliament (MP). He said for bucopho not to campaign was disadvantageous, especially with those who were quiet, because even after being elected, they would continue being quiet whereas the nature of work required one to speak.

He said no one should earn or get paid for just saying nothing but should be paid for their voice in the development of their communities. Bhembe said the amendments came at the right time where there were people who were coming into the elections with different agendas from their political parties. He said, therefore, when everyone campaigned, it would be possible to detect those who were affiliated to any political party.

Mandates

He said electing members of political parties into the Tinkhundla System would not work as those individuals would be coming with mandates of their parties and there would be clashes.

Bhembe said, however, the proposed changes would now require more time as before the room for campaigning was opened for indvuna yenkhundla and MP but now it would need to accommodate the bucopho candidate as well. The chairperson said, therefore, the campaigning stage would need to be staggered in order to accommodate every nominee. He added that the only amendment they were objecting was the counting of votes in each polling station as opposed to the old way where votes were transported to a central place, where they were counted together. Bhembe said counting of votes in each station might cause conflict as candidates, especially those who would win the elections, would be biased towards areas where they received less votes than where he attained a majority votes.
MBABANE  A different year for elections!

This years elections might not be a walk in the park for aspiring bucopho as they might not assume office immediately after the primary elections. Bucopho are constituency councillors, a body enshrined in the Constitution of Eswatini of 2005, and play an important role of coordination within the community, while ensuring that the populace is able to access a litany of services. These changes could be brought about by the proposed amendments to the Elections Act. The proposed amendments are likely to see bucopho, tindvuna tetinkhundla and Members of Parliament (MPs) all elected and concluded at secondary level on the same day. All these political bodies play various roles within their constituencies, though they work hand-in-hand in the development of their communities. These changes would mean bucopho would no longer contest in the primary elections, but in the secondary elections.

Nomination

They will be nominated during the nomination stage then wait for the secondary elections to be announced as winners. Only those contesting for the indvuna yenkhundla and MP would contest in the primary elections. In an interview with this publication, Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) Communications Officer Mbonisi Bhembe, said the amendments were among many others that they were looking forward into being passed before the elections time. Bhembe said the call for the bucopho not to occupy office immediately after the primary elections was meant to avoid any influence on the election process by the constituency councillors.

Concerns

He said the concerns were that the bucopho often used their power to influence voters to vote for their (bucopho) preferred candidates in the MP position and then de-campaign others.

He said the amendments would also see those nominated for bucopho position campaigning just like indvuna yenkhundla and MP. Bhembe said if the amendments came into effect, the candidates nominated for the bucopho positions would have to go through the campaigning stages just like those aspiring for indvuna yenkhundla and MP. In the past, those nominated for the bucopho position were not required to campaign but were elected by the community members based on their knowledge of that particular candidate if indeed he or she was a member of their community and his activeness in developmental issues.

The communications officer said they were hopeful that such amendments would have been finalised by the time the elections time came. The primary elections are scheduled for August 27, while secondary elections are scheduled for September 29. In Parliament, during the appearance of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the issue of the influence by the bucopho on the elections was raised. Gege MP Musa Kunene asked the minister; Could the ministry ensure that all the elective positions in an inkhundla, for instance, bucopho, indvuna yenkhundla and Member of Parliament etc, be all elected and concluded at secondary level on the same day, so that there will be no influence on the election process by bucopho or anyone else? The response by the ministry was that it was an offence for bucopho to influence the election process upon being elected, hence they must be reported to the police for investigation and prosecution where they were found guilty. The ministry said the recommendation was acknowledged and the commission (EBC) would explore the feasibility of implementing it within the ambit of the law.

Meanwhile, Ndzingeni MP Lutfo Dlamini asked if the legislative amendments on the Electoral Bills would be undertaken before or after the general elections. In response to that, the ministry said selected legislative amendments would be undertaken before the general elections.

Comprehensive

However, it is projected that a more comprehensive amendment and consolidation of electoral law would be undertaken after the general elections, reads the written responses of the ministry. In an interview with this publication yesterday, Mkhiweni MP Michael Masuku, said they were still working on these issues as the public consultations were still ongoing. Masuku said indeed they were looking forward into seeing the bucopho aspirants campaigning just like the indvuna yenkhundla and MP. The legislator said they were working around these issues at the same time being cognisant of the Constitution as whatever they were doing should not clash with the Constitution. Other changes that will take place in the upcoming elections will be on the issuing of voter cards upon registration. In this years elections, there will be no voter cards issued but voters will be required to carry their personal identity (ID) cards throughout the elections.

Bhembe said issuing the voter cards came at a cost, which was carried by the taxpayer. He said, therefore, as EBC, it was their duty to ensure that all costs of the elections were not exorbitant. Bhembe said they were also looking at making changes in the period for checking of voters roll, from 14 days upwards, in order to allow voters to have enough time to check it and identify any errors and names of people who had registered from areas where they did not originate from. He also stated that they were also working around amending the number of nominees, from the three to 20. He said they aimed at making it four upwards in order to allow inclusion of all groups like the youth, those with disabilities, women and men. He said the minimum of three nominees showed that already one group was left out.

In order for anyone to make nominations, that particular person should have been registered and that would be checked. Bhembe said another change that might take place would be that votes be counted in the same polling station, unlike before where votes were transported from all the polling stations of each inkhundla centre to be counted together in one place. On the ongoing consultations for the amendments, several stakeholders have made their submissions. The women regiment (Lutsango) has called for removal of mourning gowns during the elections. They submitted that there was fear that widows were indirectly discriminated against in the electoral processes, hence the proposal to the EBC was to have them (widows) remove their mourning gowns for those widows who had been mourning for at least six months, during the electoral year.

Last week, members of the African United Democratic Party (AUDP) were barred from making submissions to a Parliament committee because they presented themselves as a political party. The members of the political party had intentions to make submissions on the Elections (Amendment) Bill, 2023 and the Voters Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2023, but their intentions did not yield fruit, owing to their desire to make submissions as a party, not as individuals. Meanwhile, former Secretary to Cabinet Mbuso Dlamini suggested an amendment that returning officers should not require proof of residence at inkhundla.
Admiral Pybus was an outstanding member of the United States Navy Sea, Air, and Land (SEAL) Teams and a highly effective commander of these units. The SEALs are small special operations units that accomplish critical, targeted combat and intelligence gathering missions. Much of their work is top secret but Admiral Pybus was the Assault Squadron Commander of SEAL Team Six in the very high profile rescue of the ocean liner Achille Lauro after it was hijacked by Palestinian terrorists in 1985. Admiral Pybus has served with distinction in Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia. The Admiral earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Rochester and a regular Navy commission through the universitys Navy ROTC program. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in strategic Studies at the Naval War College. Admiral Pybus has served in a number of important command positions including Director of Operations, J-3, U.S. Special Operations Command, Commander of Special Operations Command Pacific, Commander Naval Special Warfare Command, Commander of NATO Special Operations Headquarters and Deputy Commander U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida until his 2016 retirement. The Admiral has received a number of decorations for his excellent work including the Defense distinguished Service Medal, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal (three awards), the Legion of Merit (two awards), and the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards). He has been inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame. He has served as the Chairman of the Board and is currently a member of the Board of the Navy SEAL Foundation. Admiral Pybus and his wife Patty reside in Tampa, Florida, where he is a Consultant within the Defense and Security sectors of the United States and President of the Pybus Group, LLC. The Blowing Rock Memorial Day program is sponsored by Blowing Rock American Legion Post 256 with the assistance of the Blowing Rock Civic Association.

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(CNBC) Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett on Saturday assailed regulators, politicians and the media for confusing the public about the safety of U.S. banks and said that conditions could worsen from here. Buffett, when asked about the recent tumult that led to the collapse of three mid-sized institutions since March, launched into a lengthy diatribe about the matter.

To read this article:
The human trafficking is believed to have taken place in Northern Finland in 20202022.

THE DISTRICT COURT of Lapland has issued orders to sequestrate around 1.5 million euros worth of assets on grounds of suspicions of aggravated human trafficking connected to berry pickers recruited from Thailand to Finland, reports Helsingin Sanomat.

Sequestration is a legal measure intended to safeguard the compensation claims of crime victims by preventing the suspect from concealing or dispensing of their assets.

Helsingin Sanomat on Thursday wrote that about one-third of the assets belong to the managing director of Kiantama, a wild berry company based in Suomussalmi, Kainuu. The remaining two-thirds belong to the former managing director and majority owner of Polarica, a berry company registered in Rovaniemi.

The Finnish Border Guard and National Bureau of Investigation (KRP) are presently investigating a human trafficking case revolving around two Finnish berry companies and a Thai company that has helped to recruit berry pickers to Finland. While authorities have not disclosed the names of the companies at the heart of the pre-trial investigation, it has been reported previously that one of the companies is Polarica.

Polarica issued a press release commenting on the pre-trial detention of its now former managing director, Jukka Kristo, in October 2022.

Vernu Vasunta, the managing director of Kiantama, has refrained from commenting on whether the other company implicated in the investigation is Kiantama.

Vasunta in December messaged Helsingin Sanomat that he has been interviewed by police in his capacity as managing director in connection with an inquiry linked to berry pickers.

I can say for my part that weve complied with Finnish laws and official guidelines concerning the berry-picking industry in all our operations. We wont be commenting on the ongoing investigation in further detail at this point, he wrote in an e-mail to the daily newspaper.

The criminal allegations have been denied by all suspects, according to Teemu Mantyniemi, the detective superintendent in charge of the investigation at KRP. Mantyniemi told Helsingin Sanomat last week that the number of suspected victims of human trafficking has risen above 100, a sharp rise from the few dozen cited earlier by investigators.

At the moment, weve identified more than a hundred victims, he said.

The Thai berry pickers are believed to have been deceived, exploited and subjected to forced labour-like conditions by the two companies at the centre of the investigation. They were also accommodated in appalling conditions.

Helsingin Sanomat in January reported that Kiantama, one of the largest wild berry companies in Finland, has repeatedly faced scrutiny from occupational safety authorities over the conditions of Thai pickers.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
YLE in April reported that the digital currency would be used with a smartphone app, be it that of the ECB or a commercial bank such as OP or Saastopankki.

THE EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK (ECB) and national central banks in the eurozone have laid out plans to create a digital euro in order to provide an alternative to card payments as the use of cash continues to decline  particularly rapidly in countries such as Finland.

An electronic equivalent to cash, it would be made available primarily to people, businesses and authorities located in the eurozone, although it could also be used by people outside the monetary union as long as they have an account with a bank within the union. It would offer two chief benefits over payment cards: it would neither leave the same kind of data trace, nor would not incur the same kind of transaction fees as payments processed by the likes of Visa or Mastercard.

Tuomas Valimaki, a board member at the Bank of Finland, reminded the public broadcaster that as consumers are shifting away from coins and bills toward cards and mobile apps, payments are becoming increasingly reliant on large technology platforms.

Electronic payments are very very centralised, he said. We currently have two card companies whose debit and credit payments are used to make virtually all payments. With the other payment option, cash, being used less and less and becoming even more marginal in the future, we need a new means of payment from the viewpoint of operational security and disruption resilience.

So that no one has too strong a monopolistic power to start pricing payments.

Officials involved in the preparatory work are presently looking to determine the appropriate degree of anonymity that strikes a balance between personal privacy and efforts to prevent crime such as money laundering and terrorism financing.

In todays world, you cant even think that you could build a completely anonymous payment method, stated Valimaki.

The idea isnt that the big brother will start watching you. The Eurosystem will never obtain information on what individual people are doing with their money, thats something well make sure of, he assured.

China is presently trialling a centralised digital currency, known as digital yuan, in order to take the country cashless and boost the appeal of its sovereign currency internationally. The trial has also stirred up concerns that the digital yuan would enable the government to surveil its citizens even more closely and freeze the digital assets of, for example, dissidents.

The ECB launched the study and planning phase of the currency project roughly two years ago, focusing initially on fundamental questions such as the technological functioning of the payment method.

Valimaki told YLE that the ECBs governing council will decide whether to move to the next preparatory next autumn. He estimated that the digital euro could be adopted no earlier than four or five years from now.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
While the overall number of workplace accidents decreased by around one percent, the accident frequency rate increased in the construction industry because of the decline in the number of working hours.

The number of workplace accidents in the construction industry decreased slightly in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to a recent press release. However, the accident frequency rate increased due to a greater decline in the number of working hours than in the number of accidents.

Last year, the accident frequency rate was 59.7 workplace accidents per million working hours in the construction industry. This rate had been decreasing for several years and hit its lowest point at 55.1 in 2020, but it started to rise again thereafter.

One of the factors contributing to the increase in accident frequency rate is the reduction in working hours in the industry. The number of working hours has fallen by about 14 percent from 2018 to last year.

The majority of accidents were caused by sharp objects, falls, or impacts

Approximately a quarter of all workplace accidents in the construction industry last year involved falls, cuts or sharp object impacts. Most falls occurred from relatively low heights, such as from ladders or scaffolding, but there were still some high falls. Lower limb injuries were the most common outcome, accounting for 35 percent of all falls, while multiple body parts were injured in 15 percent of cases.

"Workplace accidents caused by manual handling have decreased to around 10 percent. Twenty years ago, nearly one-fifth of workplace accidents in the construction industry were caused by manual handling. This change reflects the changing physical demands of work in the construction industry," said database analyst Janne Sysi-Aho.

Non-construction workers were frequently injured on construction sites

People from other professions also work on construction sites, such as installers and drivers bringing in materials. Last year, nearly 4,700 workplace accidents happened to non-construction workers on construction sites, which was about 7 percent more than in 2021. Of the non-construction workers who were injured on construction sites, 36 percent were temporary agency workers.

"It's important to manage safety on a construction site as a whole, taking into account everyone who works or visits the site, regardless of their profession or role. Different-sized sites have various roles, such as installers and drivers bringing in materials. The key factor is to manage safety for everyone," Sysi-Aho emphasized.

The Finnish Workers' Compensation Center will release industry-specific analyses of the 2022 workplace accident statistics in the spring and early summer of this year. The forecast of this year's workplace accident figures will be released in September or October 2023.

The 2022 workplace accident statistics were published at the end of February 2023. The report provides important insights that can help improve safety measures in the construction industry and reduce the number of workplace accidents.

HT
The Mass Casualty Commissions final report called for all of Canadas police forces to require a three-year degree for officers, as Finland does.

This article on the recommended overhaul of police training across Canada, citing Finland as a potential model, was published in CBC on May 2. The article provides details of the inquiry into a mass shooting that left 22 people dead in Nova Scotia, Canada in 2020.

Currently, RCMP recruits spend six months at a training facility followed by six months of on-the-job training, a model deemed inadequate by the commission. The article states that the commission's report called this model "inadequate to prepare RCMP members for the complex demands of contemporary policing."

On policing in Finland, Lotta Parjanen, the head of education for Finlands Police University College, told CBC that there is a big difference between the two countries. Certain countries have very short [programs], that they can shoot, maybe wrestle, they dont know how to give fines, Parjanen said.

But our education is based on the idea that we have a motto that police officers are civilized. We put a lot of effort into communication. The reputation of Finlands police is very good, and the trust. So when there is police, there is also respect involved, Parjanen added.

The article also highlights that a thorough vetting of candidates is needed, as per the report. The commission report quoted Kimmo Himberg, former rector of the Finnish police college, who said modern policing requires a complicated mix of skills and knowledge.

Original story was published by CBC on 02.05.2023 and can be found here.

Finlands missing millions show traders are still exploiting tax

Finlands controversial trade, which allows investors to shuffle stocks from one jurisdiction to another and avoid withholding taxes, was covered in an article by BNN Bloomberg on May 5. The article looks into these transactions, also known as cum-cum deals, which have resulted in Finland losing an estimated 320 million of public revenue between 2018 and 2021

The tax authorities are currently investigating "several dozen" companies, with the country's National Bureau of Investigation, as part of a broader review of the transactions. Despite efforts to eliminate the practice, Finnish authorities believe that new cases of the tax-avoidance scheme will continue to arise.

Katja Pussila, a risk manager at the Finnish Tax Administration who has helped lead the countrys investigation into the practice, told BNN Bloomberg, It doesnt make sense that Finnish single-stock futures would be the most heavily traded from a pure investment point of view. Pussila added that this is evidence of dividend-tax arbitrage, at least to some extent.

Cum-cum transactions, named after the Latin word for with that traders often use when discussing dividends, were in the news in March when French prosecutors raided the Paris offices of BNP Paribas SA and Societe Generale SA, leading to more than 1 billion in fines for the banks as part of a probe into money laundering and tax fraud allegedly linked to the trades.

Original story was published by BNN Bloomberg on 05.05.2023 and can be found here.

Finland and Norway can help solve Mongolias clean water issue

This article on how Mongolia can address its chronic water security issues with the help of Finland and Norway, which are hailed as leaders of the global clean water sector, was published in The Diplomat on April 29. The article discusses solutions to the water stress situation in Mongolia by accelerating bilateral ties with the Nordic countries.

In the past decade, Mongolias water stress, coupled with climate change and mass mining activities, has impinged on the livelihood of Mongolians, and the Asian Development Banks Asian Water Development Outlook program has highlighted impending challenges in the countrys water sector. The article points out recommended improvements around water governance, systems management, and modernizing tools and technologies that can produce clean water in the future.

It highlights the different challenges faced by the capital city of Ulaanbaatar, where decades-old water and waste management systems are inundated by surging demand due to population growth, and remote provinces where a lack of modern waste management systems and a shortage of clean water supplies are driving migration to larger cities.

The article suggests that Ulaanbaatars third-neighbor foreign policy and existing diplomatic relations with Finland and Norway could be leveraged to invest in clean water projects. It notes that clean water initiatives could also serve as an important bilateral mechanism to strengthen ties.

The author Bolor Lkhaajav is a researcher specializing in Mongolia, China, Russia, Japan, East Asia, and the Americas. She holds an M.A. in Asia-Pacific Studies from the University of San Francisco.

Original story was published by The Diplomat on 29.04.2023 and can be found here.

Police detain Estonian criminals behind forced labor in Finland

The Central Criminal Police of Finland and Estonia arresting eight people suspected of trafficking Estonian, Latvian and Ukrainian citizens was covered in an article by ERR News on May 2. The article provides details of the arrest of the people belonging to a criminal group that allegedly forced the trafficked citizens into labor in Finland's construction industry.

It also states that the group is suspected of committing offences against property and economic crimes, including fraud. The organization, allegedly run by a man known as the Joker, is believed to have made 2.3 million from exploiting construction workers. All the suspects have previous convictions for violent crimes.

The same members of a criminal group are suspected of committing various crimes in Finland. Some of them have been charged with human trafficking and fraud offences, while one is also facing charges of tax fraud and smuggling, Public prosecutor Raigo Aas said in a press release.

Ago Leis, head of the Central Criminal Polices organized crime unit, said that the disruption of organized crime groups in Estonia has forced them to expand their activities to other countries.

Original story was published by ERR News on 02.05.2023 and can be found here.

Recalls declined in Finland for the first time in several years

The decline in the number of product recalls in the year 2022 was reported in Food Safety News on May 3. The article explores the reasons for recalls based on the data from the Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto), highlighting that it is the first decline in several years for recalls due to contamination and related issues.

Products were withdrawn from the market 288 times due to potential microbiological contamination, pesticide residues, and undeclared allergens. The decrease in number of recalls was partly attributed to fewer recalls related to ethylene oxide, which dropped from 72 in 2021 to 14 in 2022.

Elaborating on the reasons, the article mentions that the number of recalls due to microbial reasons went up from 49 to 59 in 2022. Salmonella was found in 18 cases in different foods, such as meat and fish products, fresh herbs, and spices. However, recalls due to pesticide residues rose by 48 percent from the previous year. Fruits, vegetables or other foods were withdrawn from the market 49 times.

Original story was published by Food Safety News on 03.05.2023 and can be found here.

HT
HOBBS of Henley has agreed a partnership with a charity.

The boat hire firm, which is located in Thames Side, will help raise momney for Riverside Counselling Service until the end of next year.

The charity, which is based in Northfield End, provides affordable and free counselling support to support mental wellbeing for both adults and young people in South Oxfordshire.

It runs therapy support groups, a drop-in service, workshops and professional training.

On June 15, Hobbs will host a lunch and learn session on board The Hibernia to teach corporate customers and businesses how to maintain good mental health in the workplace.

Jason McMahon, Riversides fund-raising manager, will give a talk about his own experiences and offer advice.

Suzy Hobbs, who runs the company with her husband Jonathan, said: Hobbs of Henleys commitment to support better mental health has always been strong and we have great opportunities through this partnership to raise awareness of the issue and the work of the charity as well as help raise much-needed funds.

Mr McMahon said: We are delighted that Hobbs of Henley are supporting our efforts to make counselling more accessible to those most in need. It is the charitys 35th anniversary next year and we are excited to use every opportunity the charity can to embed ourselves in the the community.

Meanwhile, Hobbs has also teamed up with Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.

AMOD Events, the catering service run by the Indian chef, will offer bespoke menus to customers chartering one of the companys luxury vessels.

Kochhar said: I am thrilled to partner with Hobbs of Henley and cant wait for people to taste the menus Ive devised. We hope theyll make your on-board experience just that little bit more special.

Jonathan Hobbs, managing director of Hobbs, said: We are very excited for this partnership of luxury charters with exquisite cuisine.

The finest award-winning Indian cuisine combined with the best of British boating the perfect summer partnership.
A 20MPH speed limit is to be introduced in Woodcote.

Oxfordshire County Council, the highways authority, has approved the move in a bid to improve road safety for pedestrians.

The village is one of 72 places across the county to have a lower limit approved since the council introduced the 8 million programme a year ago.

The new 20mph zone will consist of signs warning drivers to slow down.

Robin Peirce, chairman of Woodcote Parish Council, said: Im heartened that the plans for a 20mph speed limit have been approved. Anything that slows down the traffic is great.

For many years we have had a speeding problem. In every public consultation we have had, residents have complained about speeding in the village.

The issue is that people use Woodcote as a short cut between the M40 and the M4 and some people seem to think they will lose their lives if they get somewhere a few minutes later and are willing to risk the lives of others to get there sooner.

Over the years we have had many accidents of varying severity.

Hopefully, the signs will be in place by the end of the year. If you impose a 20mph speed limit, some people will take notice  they may not necessarily go 20mph but they might go 30mph if they were previously going 40mph and this can make all the difference.

The parish council has attempted to reduce the speed of drivers going through the village by introducing pedestrian crossings.

Parish councillor Helen Booker said: We have been doing everything we can within our parameters to make the roads safer.

It is not technically our responsibility but it is a top concern of our residents so we feel we have a responsibility to deal with the issue. Once a car crashed into a telegraph pole within the existing 30mph limit and if there had been anyone walking there at the time, it could have been very bad.

The new speed limit will make it safer for pedestrians and reduce the chances of these things happening.

The county council says that since it began the three-year programme, 208 towns and villages have applied for 20mph limits.

Checkendon and Sonning Common are among those to have also had their applications approved with Benson likely to follow suit.

Bill Cotton, director of environment and place, said: There is a clear link between the speed of traffic and the likelihood of accidents happening in which people are killed or injured.

You are seven times more likely to survive if you are hit by a car driving at 20mph than if you are hit at 30mph.

The council pays for the signs so there is no cost to parish councils but they will be expected to pay for additional measures, such as speed-activated signs and traffic-calming devices.

The council says it works alongside Thames Valley Police but that the emphasis is on drivers adhering to the new limits, rather than enforcement, and changing their mindset. It hopes that as 20mph limits become more common that breaking the limit will become socially unacceptable.

But Conservative county councillor Kevin Bulmer said: The policy has been implemented in an untargeted way.

Instead of only targeting areas that would need the signs, they are putting them up in all areas, some where the 20mph speed limit makes very little difference or where motorists will take no notice.
Chinas FM calls on US to stop condoning Taiwan separatist forces

Beijing, May 8 (UNI) Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, during a meeting with US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, called on Washington to stop supporting separatist forces in Taiwan.

"[The US] should properly approach the Taiwan issue  stop supporting and condoning the separatist forces of 'Taiwan independence'," Qin Gang said as quoted by China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday.

The foreign minister also pointed out to Washington the need to respect China's "red lines" and stop violating its sovereignty, security and development interests.
New Delhi/Jeddah, May 8 (UNI) Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Dovals meeting in Jeddah with his US and Emirati counterparts and the Saudi Crown Prince was to discuss a possible major joint infrastructure project to connect Gulf and Arab countries via a network of railways that would also be connected to India via shipping lanes from ports in the region, according to a report.

According to Axios, the project is one of the key initiatives the White House wants to push in the Middle East amid Beijings growing influence in the region. The Middle East is a key part of China's Belt and Road vision.

According to the Saudi Press Agency readout of the meeting, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received on Sunday evening the Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, National Security Advisor of United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan; the US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan; and the National Security Advisor of India Ajit Doval.

During the meeting, they discussed means to strengthen relations and ties between the three countries in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region.

The mega infra project was one of many topics discussed during the visit.

The idea for the new initiative came up during talks that were held over the last 18 months in another forum called I2U2, which includes the US, Israel, the UAE and India, Axios said, quoting sources.

The I2U2 forum was established in late 2021 to discuss strategic infrastructure projects in the Middle East.

Nobody said it out loud but it was about China from day one," a former senior Israeli official who was directly involved in early discussions on the issue told Axios.

Israel raised the idea of connecting the region through railways during the I2U2 meetings over the last year. Part of the idea was to use Indias expertise on such big infrastructure projects, the former Israeli official said.

The Biden administration expanded on the idea to include Saudi Arabia's participation.

The initiative would include connecting Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also connect to India through seaports in the Gulf.

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan hinted at this initiative during his speech last Thursday at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. If you remember nothing else from my speech, remember I2U2, because you will be hearing more about it as we go forward," he said.

Sullivan said the fundamental notion is to connect South Asia to the Middle East to the U.S. in ways that advance our economic technology and diplomacy."

He also said a number of projects are already underway and some new exciting steps that were looking forward to undertaking in the months ahead."

"A more integrated, interconnected Middle East empowers our allies and partners, advances regional peace and prosperity, and reduces the resource demands on the U.S. in this region over the long term without sacrificing our fundamental interests or our involvement in the region," he said.

While Israel is not part of this initiative at the moment, it could be added to it in the future if efforts to further normalize relations in the region make progress, Axios said.

UNI RN


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Today, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra issued the following statement to mark National Nurses Week:

Americas nurses are the beating heart of our health care system. They are talented, skilled professionals who serve as vocal and valuable advocates for their patients, colleagues, communities, and themselves.

I have met with countless nurses around the country  and around the conference room table in my office  to better understand their experiences and ambitions. I also work with nurses as we are fortunate to have many among the HHS workforce, those providing patient care at our health care facilities, and those in our leadership who provide guidance that shapes our work at the Department.

Nurses make up the largest part of the health care workforce, with more than four million registered nurses, almost one million licensed practical nurses, and over 300,000 nurse practitioners nationwide. While it is a large profession, there is still room for more nurses  and indeed a need for more  to overcome longstanding staffing shortages and meet growing demand in the future. It is an exhausting and challenging career to be sure, but also a satisfying and meaningful one.

The Biden-Harris Administration and HHS are proud to support nurses and the nursing profession, including by making crucial investments in nursing training grants, loans, and scholarships, as well as the broader health care landscape.

In recognition of National Nurses Week, we celebrate the endless efforts of nurses to enhance our nations health and wellbeing, and we thank them for their service.
Tata-owned Air India on Monday announced an extension of the last date for employees to apply for Voluntary Retirement Scheme(VRS). The new deadline is May 31, as per a notification by a senior official of the airline. Air India employees have been asked to get in touch with HR representatives to clear any queries.(HT_PRINT)

However, the acceptance of the application and the date of release would continue to be dependent on the management's discretion. To clear doubts and concerns, Air India employees have been asked to get in touch with HR representatives.

This is in reference to the Organizational Announcement dated 17 March 2023 on the subject. In this regard, please note that the last date to apply for Voluntary Retirement in terms of the above Organizational Announcement for all the eligible employees has been extended till 31 May 2023," the notification read.

Tata Sons, which won the bid to acquire Air India in January 2022, had said it would retain all employees for one year and offer VRS if it plans cost-cutting measures later.

The company announced a voluntary retirement offer in March this year for non-flying employees.. The offer, available from March 17 to April 30, 2023, was made to permanent general cadre officers over the age of 40 and clerical and unskilled staff who have worked with Air India for a minimum tenure of five years. According to a LiveMint report, nearly 2,100 employees were eligible to avail the offer.

With 11,000 flying and non-flying staff, the first phase of VRS was launched in June 2022. The offer was applicable to both flying and non-flying personnel. While roughly 4,200 employees were eligible then, at least 1,500 people chose the retirement option, the report added.

In response to employees request to extend the voluntary retirement perks to other permanent staff, the carrier is announcing the second phase of the offer, the airline's HR head Suresh Dutt Tripathi said in the letter sent out to the staff on Friday.

In September 2022, Air India launched Vihaan.AI to transform the company into a global airline while attaining profitability and becoming a market leader. It aimed to expand its fleet while also improving its performance and innovations.

(With inputs from ANI)

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Commerce minister Piyush Goyal, who is currently in Canada, will on Monday discuss with his Canadian counterpart Mary Ng key economic issues such as investment promotion, green transition, and the ongoing negotiation between the two countries on a free trade agreement (FTA), according to an official statement. Union minister Piyush Goyal. (PTI File Photo)

Goyal and Ng will co-chair the discussions for the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) today in Ottawa, a commerce ministry statement issued on Monday said.

MDTI is a bilateral mechanism, which provides institutional mechanism to discuss a broad spectrum of trade and investment related issues and cooperation areas.

The dialogue will focus on various themes, such as strengthening the bilateral trade relationship between India and Canada, investment promotion and cooperation, green transition, including critical minerals discussion and new areas of cooperation such as promoting B2B engagements, it said.

The two ministers will also review India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations, it added. Goyal is also the minister for industry, consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and textiles. Ng holds the portfolios of export promotion, small business and economic development.

At the last MDTI meeting in March 2022, both ministers launched the CEPA negotiations with a possibility to have an interim agreement or Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA). Since then, seven rounds of negotiations have been held.

Goyal will also visit Toronto from May 9-10, where he will have various engagements to promote trade and investment, it said. These engagements will include meetings with CEOs of key Canadian companies, a roundtable of Indian and Canadian CEOs, interaction with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada, a financial sector roundtable, etc. He will be accompanied by a delegation of Indian CEOs led by FICCI.

The minister will also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, the largest food innovation trade show in North America with the participation of more than 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries. The event will address the needs of the retail, food service and food processing industries.

At SIAL Canada, the Indian participants consist of a delegation from Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). There will also be a Trade and Investment Promotion Event for the Agricultural and Food Processing sector with Indian companies and Canadian importers on the sidelines of SIAL-2023. This event is likely to be attended by 200 companies, the statement said.
NEW DELHI: Aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Monday issued a second notice to low-fare airline Go First that suspended flights from May 3 and told the airline to stop booking and selling tickets with immediate effect. Go First airline at IGI Airport in New Delhi on May 3 after the airline cancelled flights and filed for bankruptcy. (PTI)

Go First has been directed to stop booking and sale of tickets directly or indirectly, with immediate effect and until further orders, DGCA said in a statement on Monday as it issued a second notice to the cash-strapped airline for the sudden cancellation of flights and failure to continue flight operations is a reliable manner.

In view of the sudden cancellation of flights and initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process under IBC by Go Airlines (India) Limited (Go First), DGCA has issued a show cause notice to Go First under the relevant provisions of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, for their failure to continue the operation of the service in a safe, efficient and reliable manner.

The regulator said it will decide if Go First should be allowed to operate flights on the basis of its reply to the notice. The airline has been given 15 days to respond to the notice and further decision on the continuation of their Air Operators Certificate (AOC )will be taken on the basis of the reply submitted by them, the statement said.

The airline suddenly decided to cancel flights for three days starting May 3, leading the aviation regulator to issue the first notice on May 2. In response, the company told the regulator that it has filed for bankruptcy proceedings in the National Company Law Tribunal and said thatvtill 15 May 2023 and is working to refund or reschedule for future dates, the passengers already booked to fly with them.

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India should ban the use of diesel-powered four-wheeler vehicles by 2027 and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles in cities with more than a million people and polluted towns in order to cut emissions, an oil ministry panel is recommending. Diesel accounts for about two-fifths of refined fuel consumption in India with 80% of that being used in the transport sector.

India, one of the biggest emitters of green house gases, wants to produce 40% of its electricity from renewables to achieve its 2070 net zero goal.

"By 2030, no city buses should be added which are not electric...diesel buses for city transport should not be added from 2024 onwards," the panel said in a report posted on the oil ministry's website.

It is not clear if the petroleum ministry will seek cabinet approval to implement the recommendations of its Energy Transition Advisory Committee, headed by former oil secretary Tarun Kapoor.

ALSO READ: Decline in vehicles in Delhi  on paper, not on road, finds Economic Survey

To boost electric vehicle use in the country, the report said the government should consider "targeted extension" of incentives given under Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) to beyond March 31.

Diesel accounts for about two-fifths of refined fuel consumption in India with 80% of that being used in the transport sector.

The panels said new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles should be allowed from 2024 and suggested for higher use railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo. The railway network is expected to be fully electric in two to three years.

ALSO READ: Crackdown on 5 million end-of-life vehicles in Delhi kicks off

Long-distance buses in India will have to be powered by electricity in the long-term, it said, adding that gas can be used as a transition fuel for 10-15 years.

India aims to raise the share of gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030 form 6.2% now.

The panel said India should consider building underground gas storage, equivalent to two months' demand as demand is expected to rise at compound average growth rate of 9.78% between 2020 and 2050. It suggested the use of depleted oil and gas fields, salt caverns and aquifers for building gas storage with the participation of foreign gas-producing companies.
Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya alleged that one of the BJP workers in Bengalurus BTM layout was attacked by the Congress workers on Sunday night. He even shared the pictures of the worker with injuries, and the victim was later admitted in the hospital. BJP worker attacked in Bengaluru, MP Tejasvi Surya met him on Sunday

Tejasvi also made an allegation against former Congress Corporator Manjunath Reddy and said that he is behind the attack. He tweeted, Our karyakarta Harinath is brutally assaulted by Congress rowdies in BTM Layout. He is now in the hospital. A similar attempt on his life was made earlier 2 years ago. Harinath has clearly mentioned that he was assaulted by ex Corporator Manjunath Reddy. Yet no action till now. However, the Bengaluru South MP later clarified that Harinath was initially attacked in 2018 and not two years ago.

He further alleged that the Bengaluru police arrested Harinath earlier when he filed a complaint against the assault on him earlier.  I am at Madiwala Police Station now along with Harinaths daughter. When similar attempt on his life was made in the past, an FIR was filed. Guess what the BTM Layout police did? Arrest the victim Harinath himself! 7 hours after the registration of FIR, no action, no arrest, he added.

However, Tejasvi later said that the police promised to arrest the accused by Monday morning. DCP South East came to Madiwala Police Station. He assured that suspects will be arrested before 7.30 AM. I trust our system and hope the arrests will be made. If the promised arrests are not made, the simple conclusion is that the concerned authorities facilitated the absconding of the suspects by not acting within time, he tweeted.
In view of complaints regarding "unverified" claims in political advertisements, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has asked all political parties and candidates to get "clearance" from the media certification and monitoring committee (MCMC) before publishing any advertisement in the print media on the date of polling and a day prior. EC advices to all political parties to get clearance for print advertisements(HT_PRINT)

"No political party or candidate or any other organization or person shall publish any advertisement in the print media on poll day and one day prior to poll day unless the contents of political advertisement are got pre-certified by them from the MCMC committee at the State/District level, as the case may be," a letter to the political parties dated May 7 said.

ECI on Sunday also held all major local newspapers in the state responsible for all matters including advertisements published in their newspapers.

Citing the Press Council of India's norms for journalistic conduct, the ECI, in a letter said, "An editor shall be responsible for all matters, including advertisements, published in the newspaper. If responsibility is disclaimed, this shall be explicitly stated beforehand."

It said to the political parties that instances of advertisements of an offending and misleading nature published in print media have been brought to the notice of the commission in the past.

"Such advertisements in the last stage of the election vitiate the entire election process," ECI said.

In the advisory to the parties, the poll body also stressed on "clean and serious" campaign which is set to end on Monday for the Karnataka assembly elections.

The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.
Making an emotional appeal to voters in his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday asked them to take pride in the fact that he as a "bhoomi putra" of Karnataka had been made AICC president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name. Kharge makes emotional appeal, says he is Karnataka's Bhoomi Putra(Congress Twitter)

Stating that he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, he said he would until his last breath he continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests.

Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to "wipe out" Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a BJP candidate. It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out "Kharge, his wife and children".

"It seems that it might have come into the minds of BJP leaders to finish me off. If not, who will have the courage to say that he wants to finish off Kharge and family? If he has to say it, some BJP leader should be behind him, or else it will not," Kharge said.

Addressing a public meeting here, he said, no one could finish him off easily. "I have Babasaheb's Constitution to protect me, the people of Kalaburagi and Karnataka are behind me. Now after becoming AICC president, the people of the country are behind me. You may finish me and my family... If I go, someone else may emerge," he said.

Rathod rejected the charges outright and said, It is all a lie. They are playing some fake audio. The Congress is leveling baseless allegations fearing defeat".

Further accusing the BJP of going around saying everywhere that they wanted to finish him off as he and his son are speaking against them, the AICC chief said, "Modi is also behaving similarly. Speak about me, why son? He is not to your level. Speak about me it's fine, I've been in politics for 52 years...but why my family?"

Saying that he had lost his entire family once in his childhood and was left alone, he added, "I'm still alive and will continue to live with the blessings of the people."

"...let them do whatever they want, but I'm also strong. A man may live up to a hundred years or 90 years, but in India average life is 70 or 71. I'm already in my bonus period, I'm 81 years now. If I live, I may live for another eight or nine years, no worries. If you want to finish me off before that, finish if your problems will be resolved. I'm ready.

"But until I have my last breath, I will continue to fight for the poor and try to protect them. Until you (people) are with me, I have no fear," he added.

Kharge also urged the people of Kalaburagi to ensure that Congress won all seats in the region in "response" to the party making him its national president, suggesting that it was a matter of pride.

Pointing out that because of the blessings of the people of Kalaburagi he was in Parliament and had been in the Assembly, and worked in various capacities including Leader of Opposition, Kharge said though he lost the Lok Sabha polls, Sonia Gandhi had made him a Rajya Sabha member and then Leader of Opposition, and above all he has been made the AICC president. "It is a matter of pride of Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), not mine," he said.

Stating that he may die some day, he said, "But Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) has got the post of Congress national president and saving it is in your hand, bringing respect to it is in your hands. Or else others will say Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) was made president but people there didn't even choose an MLA."

Kharge asked the people to ensure that Congress won all the seats in Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts. "You should make sure Congress wins all 13 seats. Then I will get respect and also to those who made me president, and also to you, as I'm no one without you."

In 52 years, he had brought no bad name to his people, he said. "I have fought against JD(S), BJP, Modi in Parliament, I have fought for justice."

Noting that he had gone to Gujarat for election campaigning, the AICC president said Modi there was urging people to vote for BJP as he was the "bhoomi putra" of Gujarat and Ahmedabad and requested them to save his dignity. In the same way, Kharge said, he himself was seeking votes from his people in Kalaburagi and Karnataka.

"I want to tell Modi now that I'm the 'bhoomi putra' of Karnataka and Gulbarga (Kalaburagi). The right you have in Gujarat, I have here and I should get it. You have done nothing for my place, but I'm asking after working for my region. What have you done to seek votes here?" he asked.
A 25-year-old man working as an accountant was shot dead by four unknown persons at his home in the Ram Nagar area falling under the Islamabad police station late on Sunday night. The incident took place at around 11:30 pm when the victim along with his other family members was present at his home. (Representational Photo (Getty Images/iStockphoto) )

The deceased was identified as Saurabh Sodhi. The incident took place at around 11:30 pm when the victim along with his other family members was present at his home, police said.

The deceased mother, Anju Sodhi, said on Sunday night she along with her son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren was at home when the assailants came. In the meantime, four unknown persons on a scooter and a motorcycle came outside our home and started knocking on the door. When I opened the door, the accused entered the house forcibly. They were carrying pistols and sharp-edged weapons. When my son came out of his room, the accused started thrashing him. In the meantime, one of the accused opened fire from his pistol, and the shot was hit at my sons chest, the victims mother said.

Before leaving the spot, the accused also allegedly took away the purse, mobile and the gold neck chain of the victim.

The victim was rushed to a private hospital in Amritsar where he was declared dead.

Islamabad station house officer (SHO) Mohit Kumar said on the complaint of the victims family members, a case under Section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), has been registered besides imposing the robbery charges against four unknown persons. We are working to identify and arrest the accused. So far, the motive behind the crime is unclear, he added.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Chandigarh : For five weeks he was on the run, expecting people to come out on the streets in support. He miscalculated, said a senior journalist, who has covered Punjab for three decades, including the Khalistani movement and most recently, the state-wide manhunt for Amritpal Singh that ended after the 30-year-old leader of the separatist movement was arrested from the Rodewala gurdwara in Moga on April 23. PREMIUM Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh was arrested by Punjab police on April 23 (File Photo)

The symbolism employed by the self-styled separatist leader was not lost on anyone. Rode is the ancestral village of militant Sikh preacher, Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was killed by the Indian Army in Operation Bluestar inside the Golden Temple in Amritsar in 1984. The Rode Gurdwara was built in memory of Bhindranwale. For his endgame, Singh chose the Rode gurdwara. Last September, his audacious plan to resurrect the separatist movement, was also launched at the same place. Amritpals inspiration went deeper: he imitated Bhindranwale in appearance and in his firebrand oratory, as well.

The call for a separate Sikh state did not find the support he expected here. The issue resonates in foreign countries where Sikhs are a sizeable population, but back in Punjab, he drew a blank, the senior journalist of a vernacular daily who did not wish to be named, said.

Landing in Punjab from Dubai in September 2022 after leaving behind a family-owned truck business, Singh shot into the limelight when he declared him to be the chief of Waris Punjab De (WPD, literally, inheritors of Punjab), a socio-religious outfit that was floated in 2020 by Punjabi actor-activist, Deep Sidhu, during his participation in the farmers agitation against the now-repealed Central farm laws. Sidhu died in a road mishap in 2022.

Singh proclaimed that WPDs new aim would be to fight for Khalistan  a separate homeland for Sikhs, which formed the nugget of the separatist movement that raged through the state in the 80s and 90s. Over three decades later, in what was clearly a series of well-choreographed moves, the lanky clean-shaven Jat Sikh youngster who was born in Jallu Khera village in Amritsar district in 1993 and migrated to Dubai in 2012, first transformed himself into an Amritdhari (a baptised Sikh) at Anandpur Sahib, the birthplace of Khalsa. Four days later, on September 29, 2022, at a well-attended dastarbandi (turban tying ceremony signifying the taking on of a responsibility) in Rode village, he became the WPD chief.

This was the beginning of his vocal and virulent tirade in which he cleverly juxtaposed his drug-de-addiction slogan with his pro-Khalistan speeches in which he also harped on the past incidents of sacrilege of the Guru Granth Sahib. To whip up religious fervour and enlist the youth, he rolled out the Khalsa vaheer, a mobile Sikh religious campaign for baptism across Punjab.

Singhs barely-concealed secessionist speeches struck a discordant note in violence-weary Punjab. His close aides recorded his firebrand speeches and uploaded them on social media platforms, Facebook and Instagram, where Singh was followed by thousands. His FB page Waris Punjab De official was operated from Fresno, California.

On February 23, Singh led more than 2,000 supporters, many armed with licensed guns, swords and spears and stormed a police station in Ajnala, a town near the India-Pakistan border, to get the police to release one of his aides, Lovepreet Singh alias Toofan Singh, arrested in a criminal case. He carried the Guru Granth Sahib along in a religiously-loaded tactic, which put the police on the defensive for fear of being accused of desecrating the holy book. The raid lasted over two hours and ended when police agreed to free Lovepreet, who was released from Amritsar central jail, the next day. Six policemen were injured in the clashes and a number of police vehicles were also damaged.

The Ajnala showdown made Singh an overnight social media sensation, drawing traction from pro-Khalistan elements abroad. It also set the alarm bells ringing for both the state government and the Centre which saw a serious challenge to law and order in the border state.

For the next three weeks, the government weighed its options while Singh went underground. One of the overriding reasons against an immediate crackdown was the high-profile G-20 event that was to take place in Amritsar on March 15 to 17. In an interview with HT on March 15, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said, You will see the action soon. Three days later, the state launched an operation to nab Singh and eight core aides of his. Singh managed to evade the police for several days: on March 18 itself, he made headlines after giving the police the slip at a busy Mehatpur market in Jalandhar.

An internet shutdown was enforced across Punjab for the following week. The cops wanted to prevent Singh, now on the run, from posting videos and writing posts that would incite his supporters, bringing them to the streets to cause unrest.

He released a video message on March 29, while on the run, in which he called upon the acting jathedar (head priest) of the Akal Takht (the highest temporal seat of the Sikhs) Giani Harpreet Singh to organise Sarbat Khalsa (congregation) on April 14, the day of Baisakhi celebrations. The video put to rest the speculations that he was arrested. At least half a dozen videos and pictures surfaced on the social platforms from unconfirmed sources while he was on the run. His last video, in fact, was released minutes before his arrest in which he said he will fight the false cases registered against him.

Now lodged in Assams high-security Dibrugarh jail and charged under the National Security Act (NSA), a little over two weeks since his arrest, he is already a forgotten figure, both on Punjabs streets and on social media. Stringent scrutiny by the government appears to have played a role in muting his fledgling sympathisers. On the ground too, his support seemed thin. Giani Harpreet Singh gave a cold shoulder to Singhs call for a Sarbat Khalsa, though he expressed sympathy for him and others arrested under the NSA. Few had expected such a tame ending to the saga when only months ago the fear of the Khalistani movements revival was etched in everyones minds.

Miscalculated support of Sikhs

He didnt come through the process. He tried to impersonate (the slain Sikh militant leader) Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale but he was not even a practising Sikh in Dubai, said Ashutosh Kumar, a professor of political science at Panjab University, Chandigarh. People were not clear about his antecedents and intentions.

Many attributed his gambit to the victory of long-time pro-Khalistan Akali leader Simranjit Singh Mann in the Sangrur Lok Sabha by-election last year soon after the Aam Aadmi Partys landslide win in the February assembly elections.

Amritpal was delusional about his mission and far removed from the ground reality of Punjab which had long moved on after a tryst with a failed violent secessionist movement of the 1980s said a veteran Congress leader requesting anonymity.

Equally misplaced was Singhs intent to fancy himself as Bhindranwale 2.0. Bhindranwales rise came about in the context of a simmering conflict between the Sikhs and the Nirankari sect over the latters alleged acts of blasphemy. The flash-point was the 1978 clash in which the Nirankaris shot dead 13 Sikhs on Baisakhi day in Amritsar.

That fuelled a violent Sikh extremism, catapulting Bhindranwale to the centre-stage. Punjab at the time was also convulsed by the long-running Akali agitation over its political demands for a federal structure. Bhindranwale was heading the Damdami Taksal, a centuries-old venerated Sikh seminary with fundamentalist leanings  a critical factor in his emergence as an actor in the cataclysmic events that culminated in Operation Bluestar, the watershed event that changed the history of Punjab and India. Following Bhindranwales death, Punjab was the theatre of an unrelenting firestorm by a clutch of pro-Khalistan terrorist groups. The violent movement was vanquished by security agencies in 1993. Since then, pro-Khalistan political leaders have suffered defeat in elections, a reflection of the shift in the popular mood.

Singh sought to revive an idea that had long been rejected by Punjabs residents and survives only in the fringes of the Sikh diaspora, political analysts said. By taking the holy book to a police station, he exhausted whatever popularity he had garnered. He was becoming too big for his boots for he even challenged Union home minister Amit Shah to a debate, said Jagrup Singh Sekhon, who teaches political science at Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar.

The concerns of people in todays Punjab are different. They are concerned about their crops, jobs and livelihood and education. Many are selling off small land holdings to settle abroad, he said.

Clearly, Singhs antics to project himself as Bhindranwales successor were only a social media spectacle with little ground support.  His undoing was taking the cover of the holy Sikh book to assault the police station, said Sikh scholar Balkar Singh, who heads the World Punjabi Centre in Patiala.

The very act of copying Bhindranwale, was Amritpals mistake. He may be the leader for a handful who need issues for their survival, but you cant fool people for a long time, he said.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh was in city on Monday to inaugurate a gaushala at Raipur Kalan. Defence minister Rajnath Singh during the inauguration of Raipur Kalan Gaushala in Chandigarh on Monday. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

Addressing a gathere here, the minister said, Chandigarh is an education hub for the northern states of India and through the various schools, colleges and universities, the city is providing quality education to the youth. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi led BJP government is dedicated in providing various education-related facilities to the youth which includes establishment of new universities in the country, the construction of colleges, the construction of schools, the increase in military schools or enhancing the facilities at the educational institutes.

On the occasion, the defence minister also laid the foundation stone for the extension of Kurukshetra Boys Hostel at Punjab Engineering College (PEC). The block will increase the existing available hostel facilities from 250 rooms to 622 rooms to meet the requirement of residential students at PEC. Similarly, the foundation stone was also laid for the Hostel Block in the Government College, Sector-46, that will accommodate 138 boys and 138 girls after its completion.

While showing commitment towards enhancing the educational facilities, Singh added, Through the National Education Policy 2020, the government is focusing on providing holistic education to the youth of the country so that they can make significant contributions to the economic development of the nation.

The minister also inaugurated the state-of-art project Centre for Cyber Operation and Security (CenCOPs) which uses modern IT tools and technology to fight against cybercrime. The project consists of four fundamental pillarsdata analytics and predictive policing, evidence collection and advanced forensics, cyber Security and cyber crime investigation, and social media analytics and citizen outreach.

The centre will serve as a major deterrent to criminals by assisting the police force in tracking them, solving crimes quickly and more efficiently.

While emphasising on the growing need to ensure cyber security, Rajnath further added, Chandigarh is making continuous efforts to strengthen the security system along with education. With development in science and technology, the scope of safety hazards increases proportionately. With the support and approval of the ministry of home affairs, the CenCOPs will focus on combating cyber threats. It is responsible for the security of vital national infrastructure, protecting sensitive information and responding to cyber attacks.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated UTs biggest cattle pound in Raipur Kalan, after launching the countrys first Indian Air Force (IAF) Heritage Centre in city on Monday Defence minister Rajnath Singh during the inauguration of Raipur Kalan Gaushala in Chandigarh on Monday. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

The cattle pound, set up on a five-acre land at a cost of 6.4 crore, will have the capacity to house at least 1,000 cattle heads. The pound will completely run on solar power and will have an effluent treatment plant (ETP), a first in the city. It will also have a hospital, a laboratory, a kitchen, parking area and a dormitory for workers. At present, the civic body has four gaushalas, one each in Sector 25, 45, Maloya and Industrial area.

Rajnath said, A gaushala is a symbol of our respect and reverence for cows. It is our duty to take care of these animals, which are an integral part of our culture and tradition. Chandigarh MC has taken the initiative to build this state-of-the-art gaushala, which will not only benefit the cows, but also serve as a model for other cities to emulate.

He said that Chandigarh is a leading city, which accommodated the animals in a very managed and clean atmosphere.

On the occasion, UT adviser Dharam Pal said the first phase of gaushala is spread across 3.86 acres. The second phase will cover 1.06 acres while the third phase will have 7.49 acres of covered area.

The minister, addressing the gathering at Raipur Kalan, said, the centre will serve as a source of inspiration for future generations. It is an embodiment of IAFs rich history and legacy. The heritage centre houses a collection of artefacts, murals and 3D dioramas, showcasing the evolution of the force since its inception. It displays the heroic deeds of the IAF and the countrys technological progress in aircraft/equipment. It will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the crucial role that IAF has played in defending the nation.

The IAF has a rich heritage and it is our responsibility to preserve and showcase it. This centre will become an important means of preserving the history of the IAF and motivating the youth to imbibe the values of the armed forces, he added.

BJP government at the centre is committed to public service: Defence minister

Rajnath Singh also visited the Chandigarh BJP state office Kamalam in Sector 33 and met with the office bearers and senior workers of the party. The minister took a meeting of the working committee.

Speaking about the central government, the defense minister said that today India is being talked about on the international platform. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has created its own identity, and today India is no longer a weak country, it has emerged as a strong India.

The Prime Ministers imaginative ability is towering and due to this we have achieved new dimensions of progress in every field. The countrys economy has increased from 11th position to 5th position and will soon be included in the top three economies of the world, the minister added.

State president Arun Sood, former president Sanjay Tandon, mayor Anup Gupta, state general secretary Ramveer Bhatti, Chandrashekhar, all state office bearers, nominated councillors, district front president general secretary, Mandal president and all cell-department coordinators were present during the meeting.
Haryana Amateur Wrestling Association (HAWA) has suspended the secretaries of three affiliated district units for their alleged involvement in the agitation against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in Delhi. Sanyukt Kisan Morcha activists stage protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday. (Vipin Kumar/HT)

HAWA president Rohtash Singh issued a letter suspending Virender Singh Dalal of Jhajjar, Sanjay Singh Malik of Hisar and Jai Bhagwan of Mewat, and termed their alleged involvement in the ongoing wrestling protest at the national capital as unethical.

The HAWA chief said, All three are still continuing their activities with the protesters, which is purely unethical and is against the objectives, rules and regulations of the WFI as well as HAWA.

Rohtashs decision, however, brought to light the differences which have arisen within the HAWA, which is affiliated to WFI, with its general secretary Rakesh Singh calling the suspension of the district officials as a wrong move.

Rakesh claimed that the HAWA president has no power to suspend them. The circumstances in which they (the three district officials) have been suspended are wrong and misleading, he said.

Rohtash had also issued another order banning Ajay Singh Dhanda and Jai Bhagwan Lathar, the managers of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Wrestling Academy in Mirchpur village of Hisar. The president said the academy and both the managers have been banned with immediate effect for allegedly playing a part in anti-HAWA and WFI activities.

Several wrestlers have been protesting at Jantar Mantar in Delhi since April 23, levelling charges of sexual harassment against the WFI chief, a Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Uttar Pradesh.

The protesters have been demanding criminal action against Singh for alleged sexual harassment and intimidation of seven female wrestlers, including a minor.

The Delhi police have filed two FIRs against the WFI president on April 28. The wrestlers, however, demanded that he be arrested.
AMRITSAR A similar blast took place in the area on Saturday night too, injuring one person. ((Photo by Sameer Sehgal /Hindustan Times))

One person was injured in a low-intensity explosion that took place on Monday at Heritage Street leading to Golden Temple, the second in the area in 32 hours, prompting authorities to step up security.

In a similar blast took place in the area on Saturday night too, injuring one person.

Police said one person suffered minor injuries in the leg and glass facades of nearby buildings in the Saragarhi parking were damaged in the explosion that took place at 6.30am on Monday. A sweeper at the spot when the incident took place said: I was doing my duty as usual when I heard a loud blast and there was smoke all around.

Punjab director general of police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav inspected the blast site and said the police were not ruling out any angle, including a terror attack.

Preliminary investigation has found that both were low-intensity explosions. Our forensic team is working on them. We have not found any triggering mechanism or detonator at the spot. It seems the explosive material was put in a container. The absence of a trigger means it is a crude device. We are investigating the matter thoroughly and not ruling out any angle. Its too early to say if its a mischief or if theres a terror angle, he said.

The police are examining CCTV footage of the area and questioning eyewitnesses. The DGP urged people to maintain calm. Everything, including the movement of people, is normal. Our social media handle should be checked regularly and people should avoid believing rumours, he said.

The explosive was put in a container and a thread was hanging from it. A passer-by may have accidentally pulled the thread and the device fell, causing the blast. There were no shrapnel, he said.

Immediately after the blast on Monday, a massive search operation was launched in the green belt and sewerage lines in apprehension of any hidden, suspicious object. Police have also blocked one side of the road for an uninterrupted search operation.

A senior official of the Amritsar commissionerate, who is part of the investigation, said: We have sent items recovered from the spot for forensic examination and a report is expected to come on Tuesday.

On Saturday too, a blast occurred at the Saragarhi parking leaving a man, identified as Sonu Rajput, who was sleeping on Heritage Street, injured.

The police have registered a case under various Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Explosives Act at the Kotwali police station against unidentified persons.

The Amritsar police and paramilitary forces also conducted a flag march to restore public confidence.
The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT), Panchkula, has awarded a compensation of 10.20 lakh to a 21-year-old man who met with an accident in April 2022 that left him with permanent disability. The 21-year-old accident victim filed the claim petition for compensation of  10 lakh on account of injuries sustained by him in accident on April 15, 2022. (Getty Images/Purestock)

Anshul Bhan, 21, of Abheypur village, Panchkula, had filed a claim against Abhishek of Sector 22, Chandigarh, the driver of the car involved in the accident, the car owner Harmandeep Singh of Mukatsar, Punjab, and insurer The Oriental Insurance Company Limited.

Along with the compensation, the youth has been awarded 6% interest, to be paid by all parties jointly and severally.

Anshul filed the claim petition for compensation of 10 lakh on account of injuries sustained by him in accident on April 15, 2022. He stated that on the fateful evening, he was on his way back home from Morni, Panchkula, with his two friends on a motorcycle. Just prior to Morni T-Point, an i-20 car bearing Punjab registration number hit him head-on in speed. He was rushed to the General Hospital, Sector 6, Panchkula, and later referred to Alchemist Hospital where he underwent treatment but was left with a permanent disability as a result of his injuries.

Anshul submitted that he was preparing for the Haryana Police / Defence services. He had temporarily joined in health department under Saksham Policy in Haryana in March 2022. Due to permanent disability suffered in the accident, his dream to join the defence services has been shattered. He further submitted that he is still under treatment and is confined to bed; and is not able to walk and run properly, read the petition.

An FIR was also registered on April 24 under section 279, 337 of Indian Penal Code at Chandimandir police station.

The car driver, meanwhile, stated that he has been impleaded wrongly on false and flimsy grounds. No accident took place with the car. The Claimant was triple riding and has no cause of action to file the claim petition, the driver had stated.

Anshul and his friends were triple riders on the motorcycle and they must have fallen themselves, he added. Meanwhile, the car owner Harmandeep Singh of Mukatsar, failed to appear before the court and was proceeded against ex-parte.

The insurer also stated that there is undue delay in registration of FIR and Anshul himself was negligent in causing the accident by driving the motorcycle with two pillion riders.

Due to disability, Anshul has become disabled to join the police services/army services. However, the disability is not of such a nature that the petitioner is not able to do any work, as he has 25% disability only in relation to foot, knee. Therefore, his earning capacity would be adversely affected, but it cannot be stated that he has totally lost his earning capacity, the tribunal observed in its order.

It also clarified that as the vehicle involved in accident was duly insured, therefore, primary responsibility to pay compensation amount shall be that of insurance company.

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Despite conducting a nursing cadre assessment almost eight years ago, the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) is still awaiting the sanction of 1,500 posts. As many as 210 of the existing 2,572 sanctioned posts for nursing staff at Chandigarhs PGI are lying vacant. (PTI)

Making matters worse, 210 (8%) of the existing 2,572 sanctioned posts for nursing staff are also lying vacant at the premier medical institute that caters to patients from across north India.

The cadre assessment was conducted in 2015 and recruitment proposals for nurses were forwarded in 2016.

More than 500 nurses were hired during the last recruitment conducted in 2015. However, despite the expansion of various departments, including the Nehru Hospital Extension (NHE), no new nursing officer positions have been sanctioned since then.

As per norms, the nurse patient ratio in the general ward should be 1:4 and 1:1 in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). However, this ratio has been compromised due to a shortage of nurses, declining to as bad as 1:80 in some wards.

With patient care compromised, the situation is particularly concerning in wards with critically ill patients who require additional attention and care.

Nursing staff waiting for promotion

The nurses at PGIMER are also waiting for promotions, with many having to make do with a single promotion in a decade. This is despite an assured career progression scheme being in place.

Many nurses above the age of 50 are still working on night duties and bedside duties.

Having served for 30 years, Kulwant Kaur, who is now 54, has received only a single promotion and is currently assigned to night shifts.

Similarly, Sweety Snehlata, 55, is in service with single promotion and supervision, Sukhjit Kaur, 55, Rebeca Singh, 52, Suman Priya, Hansraj, Priyanka Thakur, Ram Niwas and many more like them are awaiting promotions.

Kulwant Kaur said at 54, working on night duties and bedside duties had become challenging. She emphasised that timely promotions and adequate staff are crucial to improve the current situation.

Not getting leaves and weekly offs

The staff nurses at PGIMER have raised concerns over their inability to take their leaves and weekly offs due to the staff shortages, resulting in their leave days getting lapsed.

Sudarshna, a 28-year-old nursing officer who has been in service for two-and-a-half years, said she was only given a 15-day off despite requesting a month-long leave.

Another staff member, who preferred not to be named, shared that her newborn baby was admitted to PGIMER and the doctor recommended a two-month period of care. However, when she applied for leave, her request was denied.

Rekha Rana, who has been in service for 10 years without a single promotion, highlighted that she is due for her weekly off and her mental and physical health is deteriorating. Due to the shortage of staff, nurses like her are required to work seven to eight-night shifts a month, stretching up to 12 hours.

According to the staff, in the past six months, approximately 200 nurses have resigned due to the excessive workload following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Sunil Kumar, a nursing officer with 15 years of service, is still waiting for a promotion. Despite staff shortages, Kumar said they continue to work diligently and are merely advocating for their rights. With round-the-clock effort and a commitment to zero errors, the staff at PGIMER are contributing to the growth and success of the institution.

PGIMER Nurses Welfare Association president Manjneek said the institutes assessment of beds and the patient load was not conducted in a timely manner. Moreover, he alleged a delay in submitting proposals for hiring more staff and no follow-ups.

Manjneek questioned why new departments are being approved despite a staff shortage.

Addressing the issue, the deputy director of administration Kumar Gaurav Dhawan said, A proposal for the creation of 1,500 posts has been taken up with the ministry of health and family welfare. The proposal has been under consideration for some time. The ministry has sought certain clarifications which have been replied.

Speaking of promotions, he said there were issues related to finalising the reservation rosters, which are currently being reviewed by the National Commission for Scheduled Castes in New Delhi.

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Police on Saturday booked an unidentified person after a Chandigarh resident lost 2.8 lakh by a swindler posing as a police officer over a phone call. A Chandigarh resident lost  2.8L to a man posing as police officer. (HT File)

The complainant, Anand Singh of Dariya, said he on Friday received a call from an unknown number. The caller identified as a police officer and told Anand that his son Bipin Rawat, who is serving in the Indian Army, had been arrested with terrorists.

The caller sought 4 lakh from the complainant in order to save his son from legal trouble. Worried, Anand deposited 2.8 lakh into an account provided by the swindler only to later realise the fraud.

A cheating and criminal conspiracy case has been registered at the Cyber Crime police station in Sector 17.
Police have solved the mystery of the murder of a migrant man within 24 hours, by arresting two accused. The deceased was having injury marks on the head and arms. (Representational Photo (Getty Images/iStockphoto) )

Senior superintendent of police (SSP) Varun Sharma said that police on Sunday recovered body of an unidentified person near Medicare Hospital. The deceased was having injury marks on the head and arms. The deceased was identified as Mukesh Kumar of Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, who was living as a tenant and a painter by profession.

As per the postmortem, about 18 injuries have been noticed on the body of the deceased, and his mobile phone and some cash, which he was carrying had gone missing, which provided clues in the case.

The SSP said that police took help of hi-tech methods to arrest the killers. He said Kumar was going to his rented accomodation with labour wages from his employers and the moment he reached a liquor store, he was lured by a girl, who took Kumar to a secluded place, where accused Bunty and Gaurav Kumar, residents of Patiala, were waiting in the dark and attacked the victim to snatch his mobile phone and cash.

He said that the police has solved the murder case by arresting the two accused. The accused are part of the gang which was looting migrant laborers with help of women aides. The SSP said the woman, who lured Kumar is on the run. An FIR has been registered against the accused.
The Punjab and Haryana high court has given a compensation of 5 lakh to the widow of a martyr for gross apathy and indifference shown by authorities towards her. As per the case as an honour for an exhibition of gallantry by Havildar Kehar Singh, his widow and petitioner Balwant Kaur was allotted 10 acres of land in August 1997 at village Khera Bet in Ludhiana. (Representational Photo)

The bench of justice Sureshwar Thakur and justice Kuldeep Tiwari observed that the widow of a valiant soldier should have been dealt with the honour which is to be bestowed, upon his surviving family members.

As per the case as an honour for an exhibition of gallantry by Havildar Kehar Singh, his widow and petitioner Balwant Kaur was allotted 10 acres of land in August 1997 at village Khera Bet in Ludhiana. The symbolic possession was delivered only in May 2009. But later to light that out of the 10 acres of land, possession was assignable to her of only 8 acres, as the remaining two acres were under forest cover.

In 2010, she approached the court and upon intervention, she was allotted land in Nurpur Bet in September 2011. However, the allotted plot had no revenue rasta (a path). Hence, allotment became purposeless, her plea said. She approached the court again in November 2022.

The states counsel told the court that now a rasta has been allotted. However, the bench observed that allotment was belated, and, only happened as the woman approached the court.

The bench remarked that such evident indifference and indolence was required to be deprecated in the strongest terms.

Awarding 5 lakh compensation to the woman, the court further added that she was forced to approach the court repeatedly and was dragged into litigation. Hence, it becomes imperative to monetarily compensate her.
In this photo released by Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, delegates and foreign ministers of member states convene at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, Sunday, May 7, 2023. The ministers are voting on restoring Syria's membership to the organization after it was suspended over a decade ago. The meeting comes after a rapid rapprochement between Syria and regional governments since February.
One person was injured on Monday morning in a blast at Heritage Street near Golden Temple in Amritsar, at the site where an explosion took place on May 6, police said. This was the second low-intensity blast in the high-security zone in two days as one person was injured in the explosion on Heritage Street on Saturday night. Punjab director general of police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav with commissioner of police Naunihal Singh inspecting the spot where a blast took place at Heritage Street near Golden Temple in Amritsar on Monday. (Sameer Sehgal/HT)

One person suffered minor injuries in the leg and glass facades of nearby buildings Saragarhi parking were damaged in the explosion at 6.30am on Monday. A sweeper at the spot when the incident occurred said, I was doing my duty as usual when I heard a loud blast and smoke around, he said.

Also read: 3 inter-state arms smugglers held in Punjabs Fatehgarh Sahib

One person had received minor injuries in a similar blast at 11.30pm on Saturday.

Punjab director general of police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav inspected the blast site and said the police were not ruling out any angle, including terror attack.

Preliminary investigation has found that both were low-intensity explosions. Our forensic team is working on them. We have not found any triggering mechanism or detonator at the spot. It seems the explosive material was put into a container. The absence of a trigger means it is a crude device. We are investigating it thoroughly and not ruling out any angle. Its too early to say if its a mischief or if theres a terror angle, he said.

The police are examining CCTV footage of the area and questioning eyewitnesses. The DGP urged people to maintain calm. Everything, including the movement of people, is normal. Our social media handle should be checked regularly and people should avoid believing rumours, he said.

The explosive was put in a container and a thread was hanging out of it. A passer-by may have accidentally pulled the thread and the device fell, causing the blast. There were no shrapnel, he said.

On Saturday, the blast occurred at the Saragarhi parking, leaving a man identified as Sonu Rajput, who was sleeping on Heritage Street, injured.
Union defence minister Rajnath Singhs visit added to the Monday blues of commuters, as thousands of motorists were stuck in a traffic gridlock caused due to the restrictions imposed for the smooth movement of the ministers convoy. Tarfic jam at sector 33/32 dividing road due to Union defence minister Rajnath Singhs visit in Chandigarh on Monday. (Ravi Kumar/HT)

The minister was here to inaugurate the countrys first Indian Air Force (IAF) Heritage Centre that has come up at the Government Press building in Sector 18.

To ensure the safe and smooth movement of his convoy, the traffic was diverted/restricted on Dakshin Marg  Airport Light Point, Hallomajra Light Point, Poultry Farm Chowk, Tribune Chowk, Iron Market Light Point, New Labour Chowk (Sector 20/21/33/34); on Madhya Marg  Sector 7/8/18/19 roundabout, Press Light Point (Sector 8/9/17/18) and Matka Chowk (Sector 9/10/16/17); Sector 17/18 light point and Gurudwara turn in Sector 8 during VVIP movement.

This led to major traffic snarls on these roads, the connecting roads and surrounding localities. The traffic was gridlocked especially at Madhya Marg which connects Panchkula and Chandigarh, due to traffic diversions for the VVIP visit.

Chandigarh Police had issued prior traffic advisory on social media platforms to warn residents of possible inconvenience. The public was advised to take alternative routes to avoid congestion and inconvenience.

Though regular updates on traffic were shared on social media accounts of Chandigarh Traffic Police, major traffic chaos was witnessed in the city with commuters losing their cool.

It is disturbing to see the sheer harassment caused to the public amid VVIP visit. Two chief ministers and Punjab governor reside in the city and still the poor planning of traffic was done by the police here. My vehicle got long stuck in the traffic near Sector 7 due to traffic restrictions. We could not even give way to an ambulance as the traffic flow was curbed by the police to give clear passage to the minister, said Himesh Sharma, a commuter stuck in the traffic.

Meanwhile a senior police officer said people were made aware well in time about the road diversions days before the visit of the defence minister. Traffic police followed the protocol and ensured that least inconvenience was caused to the public, he added.
Panjab University (PU) senate will meet in online mode on Tuesday to consider the recommendations of the special syndicate meeting called on Tuesday to confer the honoris causa degrees and Panjab University Ratna awards at the 70th convocation of Panjab University to be held on May 20. PU senate will take up names for honorary degrees, awards at annual convocation on May 9. (HT File)

Traditionally, recommendations sent by the syndicate are usually accepted and approved by the Senate without making any changes.

As per the syndicate recommendations, honorary degree for the Doctor of Sciences (DSc) will be conferred to virologist Dr Gagandeep Kang, the Doctor of Law degree will be awarded to former Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Doctor of Literature (DLit) will be conferred to Infosys Foundation chairperson Dr Sudha N Murthy and the honorary degree for the Doctor of Laws will be conferred to former chief justice of India Justice Ranjan Gogoi.

The University will also confer Olympian Neeraj Chopra with the Khel Ratna award, lyricist Irshad Kamil with the Sahitya Ratna, vice-chairperson of Bharti Enterprises Rakesh Bharti Mittal with the Udyog Ratna, actor Ayushmann Khurana with the Kala Ratna, parasitologist and Padma Shri awardee Veena Tandon with the Vigyan Ratna and Padma Shri awardee and Punjabi literature scholar Rattan Singh Jaggi with the Gyan Ratna.

The high-powered committee constituted by the vice-chancellor (V-C) earlier on April 26 to recommend these names. Those in attendance included chairperson professor Harmohinder Singh Bedi, chancellor of the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, SK Tomar vice-chancellor of JC Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad and former PU V-C professor Arun Kumar Grover among others.

It was informed in the meeting, convened by the PU registrar, two to three honorary degrees going up to four and a set of three Ratna awards are awarded at the convocation. But since the convocation could not be held in 2020 and 2021, it was decided to award all six Ratna awards as done in 2022.

The names of Mahajan and Murthy had been recommended for honorary degrees in 2018 and 2019 respectively, while Chopras name had been recommended for the Khel Ratna award in 2022. It was decided to recommend these three names again for the convocation this year.

Sharing further details, PU authorities said Kang is the first woman scientist from India to be elected as a fellow of the Royal Society, and since 2020, had been an ex-officio member of a working group on Covid-19 vaccines established by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts at the World Health Organisation.

Mahajan represented Indore as the longest-serving woman member of parliament. She is the second woman to be elected as speaker of Lok Sabha after Meira Kumar and was awarded Padma Bhushan in 2021.

Murthy, an educator, philanthropist and author, was awarded the Padma Shri in 2006. Gogoi has remained the chief justice of the Punjab and Haryana high court from 2011 to 2012 and is a serving member of the Rajya Sabha. He holds the distinction of being the first chief justice from North East India.
The Delhi High Court on Monday questioned jail authorities over recovery of four knives from Tihar premises where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death allegedly by inmates belonging to a rival gang. The high court directed the Delhi Police to ensure safety and security of both the petitioners. (File Photo)

The court asked why no preventive or remedial action was taken by authorities when the incident took place as the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in jail premises.

Justice Jasmeet Singh issued notice to the Director General of Prisons (Delhi), Delhi government and Commissioner of Police on a petition filed by Tajpuriyas father and brother seeking an investigation by the CBI into the brutal murder inside Tihar Jail premises on May 2.

Also Read | 7 prison staff suspended over stabbing of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya

The petitioners, represented through senior advocate Maninder Singh, said they are DTC drivers and sought adequate security for themselves.

The high court directed the Delhi Police to ensure safety and security of both the petitioners, who are father and brother of the deceased, and listed the matter for further hearing on May 25.

It directed the Tihar jail authorities to file an affidavit as to how four knives were found in prison and asked the jail superintendent concerned to be present in the court on the next date of hearing.

A CCTV video from Tihar Jail which emerged on social media purportedly showed Tajpuriya being attacked in front of security personnel and also when they were carrying him away after he was stabbed.

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on May 2.

The accused attacked him for a second time when he was being carried away by security personnel, according to the footage.

In the footage, it appears that the security personnel are mute spectators while the assailants kept repeatedly attacking the gangster.

According to jail officials, seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who were on duty at a Tihar prison cell when Tajpuriya was stabbed to death, have been suspended following the incident.
Three civilians were killed and two women suffered injuries on Monday morning after a MiG-21 fighter jet crashed into a house in Bahlol Nagar village of Hanumangarh district in north Rajasthan. The MIG-21 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force. (AP File Photo)

Watch: IAF MiG 21 fighter jet crash-lands into Rajasthan house; 3 civilians killed

An Indian Air Force helicopter was rushed to rescue the pilot who sustained injuries after ejection. The aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh air force station and the pilot reported a technical snag soon after take-off.

The aircraft crashed into the house, killing the three women who were sitting on the terrace, Hanumangarh Sadar assistant sub inspector Lalchand said.

A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident, the IAF said in a statement.

The IAF regrets the loss of lives and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the statement added.

Two other women, Bimla (18) and Manjeet Kaur (37), who were injured are recovering at the district government hospital.

A large number of villagers gathered at the crash site and alerted the Pilibanga police.
Highlighting the lack of basic amenities at the Tilak Hostel of the Lucknow University, the activists of All India Students Association (AISA) gave a representation to the dean students welfare (DSW) here on Monday. ASIA activists giving representation to DSW Prof Poonam Tandon. (HT)

They further demanded the resignation of the hostel provost for her alleged apathy towards addressing the issues concerning the inmates.

In the representation to dean students welfare (DSW) Prof Poonam Tandon, the AISA activists stated, Female students residing in hostels have been facing several problems. We learnt about a girl student from Tilak Girls Hostel who was injured during a fest and she has not received proper medical treatment for the past eight months due to which she is in a lot of trouble.

According to AISA activists, girls have repeatedly complained about the rude behaviour of their provost Bhuvneshwari Bhardwaj. AISA office bearer Nikhil Kumar said, We have received evidence where she can be seen threatening girl students. Girls have also informed us that they cannot post their problems on the social media as they would be targeted by their provost which could lead to their suspension from the hostel.

Many of our activists have also informed us about the oppression the students have to face here for raising basic demands. We have also received photos of the food provided to students that clearly show its poor quality. Students have further complained about the lack of proper water facility in the hostel, Kumar said.

AISA has informed the DSW about such issues in the past and had requested her to take action against the provost for her behaviour towards the students. As there has been no change in the behaviour of the Tilak Hostel provost, we demand that she be relieved of her responsibility as the provost, they said in a representation to DSW.

AISA demands that Tilak Hostel provost Bhuvneshwari Bhardwaj must resign for her repeated unacceptable behaviour towards students. Provide free medical treatment to the student who has been suffering from injuries for the past eight months, arrange 24x7 medical facilities for girls hostels, improve the quality of food in the mess and fix the water facilities in every hostel, they demanded.

On being contacted, DSW Poonam Tandon said, It is a list of allegations that has come from a student body. We have to check all of these with hostel inmates. I do agree that the dog bite incident at Kailash hostel was unacceptable and very unfortunate. Action has been taken against the said assistant provost.
Claiming large-scale anomalies in the first phase of the U.P. urban local bodies elections (ULB), Samajwadi Party (SP) national secretary and former U.P. minister Rajendra Chaudhary on Monday petitioned the state election commission for free and fair elections in the second and final phase of ULB polls in 38 districts on May 11. Samajwadi Party (SP) national secretary and former U.P. minister Rajendra Chaudhary (file photo)

The first phase of elections was held in 37 districts on May 4.

In the first phase polls in 37 districts, there were anomalies in the voters list and at the same time unwarranted changes in polling centres. All this deprived a large number of voters of exercising their franchise, said Chaudhary in the petition according to the statement issued by the party.

He has sought effective arrangements to prevent anomalies in the second phase.

Meanwhile, the senior SP leader and former MP Arvind Kumar Singh has complained through a letter to the chief election commissioner, Election Commission of India of misuse of power by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in Chhanbey (Mirzapur) bypolls to be held on May 10.

According to the party statement, Singh in his letter said that the ruling party and its ally Apna Dal were misusing power and trying to influence the elections and were filing fake cases against the SP supporters and workers.

It has come to notice that the BJP and Apna Dal district presidents have identified certain SP leaders, supporters and workers and have given lists of their names to the police to create pressure on them. And the police were harassing those SP men. All this is a blatant violation of the model code of conduct and the spirit of the election commission, the statement said quoting Singh.

The statement said that Singh has made an appeal to the commission for free, fair, and fearless bypolls.
The air ticket on the Imphal-Kolkata route has spiralled almost 5-6 times to 20,000 per ticket. Students studying at University in Manipur arrived at Netaji Subash Chandra Bose International Airport following the violence between two ethnic communities, in Kolkata on Monday. (ANI)

Debjit Dutta, chairman, Indian Association of Tour Operators, West Bengal Chapter, said, "As the situation in Manipur remains tense and people are rushing to leave Imphal to go to Kolkata and as well as their hometown. In this tense situation, they are facing a big problem of Air ticket which is almost high with nominal fare."

The chairman said this was because of the situation in Manipur which is likely to remain the same in the coming few days.

"If we talked about flights from Imphal to Kolkata, Air India operated daily one flight in the morning. IndiGo operated four flights from Imphal to Kolkata including connected and direct flight. All flights were packed to capacity for the next two days," Dutta said.

Dutta said Air India's fare from Imphal to Kolkata is approximately 17,000 for business class on Tuesday and 14,000 for May 11 on economy class.

He also mentioned that Air Asia has one flight from May 15 whose fare is 4,000.

"IndiGo's direct flight on May 10 from Imphal to Kolkata is 11,000 and connected flight have charged 20,000 per head," the chairman said.

AirAsia, Flybig, and Alliance Air on Monday scheduled eight relief flights for the stranded people during the prevailing situation in Manipur. These operating relief flights are part of a central government initiative to ensure the evacuation of stranded people from the trouble-torn spots of the Northeast state at the earliest.

Meanwhile, AirAsia, on Monday, operated one additional commercial relief flight to Imphal from Guwahati, according to Guwahati Airport Authority.

Flybig scheduled two relief flights on Monday, according to Guwahati Airport Authority. One operated in the morning and the second one is scheduled to fly out of Imphal at 18.40 hours in the evening.

According to Guwahati Airport Authority, Flybig flight brought 70 students to Guwahati airport on the morning flight. It also said Alliance Air has operated a total of five relief flights as of today.

Air India on Monday said it started operating special flights to and from Imphal on Saturday and Sunday, to facilitate people stranded amid the ongoing violence and ethnic strife in Manipur.

The violence in Manipur between the Hindu Meiteis and the tribal Kuki, who are Christians, erupted after a rally by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) on May 3.

Violence gripped the entire state for several days, prompting the Central government to deploy paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control.
On May 2, the crowd gathered at the YB Chavan Centre Auditorium in south Mumbai was expecting to return home with a copy of Sharad Pawars updated Marathi autobiography, Lok Maze Sangati (People Are My Companions) . Instead, the 82-year-old Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader sent everyone into a frenzy when he announced his resignation from the post of party president. Though the resignation has since been rescinded, the updated book has the veteran leaders thoughts about various political events that have rocked Maharashtra since it was last published in 2015. It also contains his opinions on various politicians, including his nephew Ajit, former Maharashtra CM and coalition partner Uddhav Thackeray, prime minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, as well as his views on the ordinary Indians steadfastness and commitment to democracy. Read on. PREMIUM Sharad Pawar's updated book has the veteran leaders thoughts about various political events that have rocked Maharashtra since it was last published in 2015. (HT Photo/Anshuman Poyrekar)

Modi believes in shock treatment

In his book, Pawar has written in detail about his opinion on the PMs style of functioning.

Attacking the opponents forcefully and defeating them without giving them any chance. It was evident in the 2014 campaign and later after he came to power. It has not changed even after he became prime minister, Pawar wrote.

In Modi's style of functioning, shock treatment has a special place. It is not only opponents but even party colleagues who get a shock, which is a speciality of his style. So instead of discussing the merits or demerits of his decisions, the whole debate is centred around the question, how did it happen, Pawar wrote.

He also criticised the PM and wrote, The lack of dialogue  became evident in the years later. Demonetisation was a classic example. The decision was taken without consulting not just the Parliament but even his colleagues in the government or in the party.

The current atmosphere is one of confrontation rather than communication, Pawar said. All channels of dialogue are closing down. After he took over as PM, initially Modi used to speak with me but later the dialogue stopped. The tradition now is to speak with those who won't raise any troublesome issue.

Was not aware of Ajit's plan to go with BJP

Pawar came to know about his nephew Ajit Pawar's plan to side with the BJP in 2019 only minutes before the rushed morning swearing-in ceremony on November 23 that year.

Ajit agreed to be Devendra Fadnaviss deputy, and took the oath in an early morning ceremony. The BJP-NCP government, however, didnt last long, as the senior Pawars efforts to cobble up a coalition of the Congress and the Sena (which had split from the BJP following a post-poll showdown) resulted in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) formation that had the numbers needed to form the government. Fadnavis government lasted 80 hours as most of the NCP MLAs chose to stay with senior Pawar. NCP leaders indicated that the decision was taken to get President's rule lifted and Pawar may well have been in the loop.

However, Pawar made it clear that he was not aware of his nephews actions.

I got a call around 6.30 am about some NCP MLAs reaching Raj Bhavan and Ajit giving NCP's letter of support to BJP. This was a shock for me. Something like this happening when NCP was taking the initiative to form an MVA government posed a question mark on our credibility."

Pawar said that the first call he made after learning of this was to Uddhav Thackeray, to tell him that the NCP was not with Ajit.

What prompted Ajits 2019 rebellion

Though Pawar did not spell out the reasons why Ajit rebelled against him, it was likely caused by the adamant stand taken by the Congress during the MVAs initial talks.

The Congress leaders adopted an adamant stand on several issues which created problems,

Pawar pointed out in the book.

"In one particular meeting, even I could not control myself and I left, as I thought there was no point in talking. I told my party colleagues to continue. Later when I called Jayant Patil to find out what happened, he told me even Ajit had left immediately after me. However, I did not think Ajit would do anything. Ajit is sentimental and he may have taken the step in the heat of the moment, Pawar wrote.

Uddhav Thackeray lacked political acumen

Pawar has written how Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray was chosen to be the chief minister in the MVA coalition to ensure the stability of the three-party government. During the Covid epidemic, his communication with the people through social media was appreciated by the middle class, Pawar said. However, he added that Thackeray faced limitations due to his physical health. The fact that he went only twice to the Mantralaya while he was CM did not go down well among the political class. Taking appointments with him was subject to his health and his appointments with doctors.

The head of the state should have a keen grasp on everything that is happening in his state. He should also have the political acumen to anticipate what would happen tomorrow and hence what steps should be taken today. We found that Uddhav was lacking in it, he wrote. In politics, one has to move fast to retain power. In the political crisis, he backed out in the first round itself, Pawar wrote, about the internal struggle that left the Sena divided into two groups following a rebellion by Eknath Shinde.

MVA was BJPs biggest challenge

The MVA government was an answer to BJP's tendency of establishing its dominance in states by suppressing other regional parties and reducing their importance using all means, said Pawar. The MVA government was the biggest challenge to the BJP in the country, he wrote. He also said that he knew that there would be attempts to destabilise the government. We were capable of handling such attempts at our level. We did not anticipate that there would be a storm within the Shiv Sena after making Uddhav Thackeray chief minister. The Sena leadership failed to handle the rebellion in its party. The MVA lost power as Uddhav resigned without a fight.

BJP tried to form the government with NCP after the 2014 assembly polls

The BJP had held informal discussions to form the state government following the 2014 polls, but he was not involved in that process, Pawar revealed. Since we were not interested in it, we decided not to go ahead. It was also decided to tell this outright to the BJP to prevent misunderstanding. Accordingly, Pawar met Modi during a session of the Parliament and apprised him of the NCP's decision.

In the 2014 assembly elections held six months after Narendra Modi formed the government at the centre, BJP emerged as the single largest party in the state, with 122 seats. All four parties contested separately. Shiv Sena won 63 seats, Congress 42 seats, the NCP 41 seats, and Independents and smaller parties won 20 seats. BJP needed 23 more seats for a simple majority (145 in a House of 288). At the time, Sena played hardball, and sought a bigger share of power than the BJP was offering. The two saffron parties eventually went on to form the government.

Rahul is a serious politician

Though Pawar is critical of the Congress in his book, he has called it the fulcrum of opposition unity. The party has been on a decline since 2014, when the BJP first came to power in the Centre. Former Congress president Sonia Gandhi showed the flexibility needed for coalition politics, but Rahul was initially not keen on it. His (Rahul) consistency was also a concern for Congress and us. Congress had to pay for that. However, his Bharat Jodo Yatra has conveyed a message that he is a serious politician. His earlier childish image among the people has changed, Pawar wrote.

Rahul has also created confidence among Congress workers, Pawar said, and the yatra that he undertook last year, across the country, created an impression that the Congress still has pan-India support. The response he got was encouraging for Congress. One of the reasons why he got such a response was that the people got an opportunity to express their unhappiness with the Central government."

One more impact is the positive change in the way Congress leadership communicates and contacts other parties. There seem to be conscious efforts to take other parties along. They spoke to us after the Bharat Jodo Yatra programme was finalised. Leaders of other parties also participated in the Yatra in various states. Congress also seems to be paying attention to the party organisation. Dialogue with other parties would be better with [Mallikarjun] Kharge becoming party president. Two years ago, it was being said that Congress was finished, but its revival has begun, Pawar wrote.

Indians will never accept majoritarian rule

Pawar said that while the BJP wants a majoritarian rule in India, the people do not want this. The BJP is trying to impose a majoritarian rule. It can be successful for some time. Has it been accepted by the people? The answer is no. Pawar said that he observed that the Muslim community in India has refused to get trapped by this. "There is fear and concern in the community but it is not in favour of an outbreak of emotions. Muslim youths are avoiding extreme reactions, that's what I feel.
Black voters in South Carolina rescued Joe Bidens bid for the presidency during the 2020 Democratic primary, and he rewarded them by moving the state to the head of the partys nominating calendars in 2024
Spandana Bharadwaj, 16, a class 12 student from Lucknow has authored a book Feathered Guests Around Us to encourage youth to take up birdwatching as hobby, explore wetlands, rivers, city forests and to protect them. Spandana Bharadwaj, 16, a class 12 student from Lucknow has authored a book Feathered Guests Around Us (sourced)

Her book, contains high resolution photographs of 82 species of birds along with their brief introduction. The book was released by leading ornithologist Dr Asad Rahmani and Bharadwajs principal at City Montessori School, Gomtinagar, Abha Anant on April 24.

Daughter of senior bureaucrat Sanjay Kumar and IPS Aparna Kumar, an accomplished mountaineer, Spandana said The young generations affinity with flora and fauna is essential for harmonious existence of life on planet earth. Her collection includes over 2000 pictures of birds and other wildlife in her collection.

It is a genuine attempt to sensitise people especially youth about the feathered guests who are hardly noticed or admired despite being present all around us. We are connected with each other but few of us take time to admire this unexplained relationship, she said.
A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) office bearer in Gujarats Valsad district was shot dead by unknown assailants on Monday morning, police said. (Representative Photo)

Police said that Sailesh Patel, vice-president for the BJPs Vapi taluka, was shot dead around 7am at Raata village, where he had gone to offer prayers at a temple.

Vapi Deputy superintendent of police B N Dave said that the incident took place after the family was returning home. He said that Patel was in the drivers seat when suddenly, two persons on a motorbike approached the car and shot him three times from a close range and fled the scene.

Patels wife has seen the faces of the attackers, said Dave.

She has told the police that the killers could be from their village in Kocharva, where they had a dispute with some people in the past. Investigations are on and we are trying to ascertain the identity of the attackers, said the DySP.
A metropolitan court in Guajarts Ahmedabad on Monday ordered an inquiry into a criminal defamation complaint filed against Bihar deputy chief minister Tejashwi Yadav over his alleged only Gujaratis can be thugs remark. Bihar deputy chief minister and RJD leader Tejaswi Yadav (File Photo)

The complainant, Haresh Mehta, an office bearer of an NGO, sought action against the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader under sections 499 and 500 (dealing with criminal defamation) over an alleged remark made by Yadav. Looking at the present condition of the country, only Gujaratis can be cheats (thugs), Yadav had allegedly said while addressing mediapersons in Patna in March.

The court further scheduled the proceedings for May 20, where witnesses may appear to give testimony on Yadavs alleged remark. The inquiry was ordered after verifying the complainants identity and the validity of his complaint on May 1.

The controversy stems from Yadavs statement made before the media on March 21 where he allegedly remarked, Only Gujaratis can be thugs in the present situation, and their fraud (crime) will be forgiven. Who will be responsible if they run away with the money belonging to LIC or banks?.

Also Read: SC notice to Bihar, Centre on premature release of ex-MP Anand Mohan

According to the complainant, Yadavs statement calling the entire Gujarati community as thug, was made before the media.

The complainant said he is also a Gujarati, and when he came across the news on digital media, he felt that such a defamatory statement will make a non-Gujarati look down upon a resident of the state as a thug.

The statement defames and humiliates all Gujaratis in public. A thug is a rogue, sly and a criminal person, and such a comparison with the entire community will cause non-Gujaratis to look at Gujaratis with suspicion, the complainant told the court while seeking issuance of summons against Yadav and maximum punishment for him under the law.
Authorities have relocated over 2,250 residents from violence-hit Manipur to Assam in the past three days, with around 300 of them moving towards Mizoram, according to the Cachar district administration. Army personnel rescue people from a violence-hit area in Manipur on Saturday. (PTI Photo)

Officials said so far eight shelter camps have been set up in Cachars Lakhipur, while some temporary ones have been put in place in Sonai.

The Manipur residents started moving towards Assam on Friday night and by Sunday evening, 2,252 people, mostly women, children and the elderly, shifted here, an official said.

Kukis and Mizos share a good bond and we believe that well be more protected there, said a 45-year-old migrant from Manipur moving to Mizoram.

Cachar deputy commissioner Rohan Kumar Jha on Sunday told HT that they are providing adequate food and water to the refugees, while the police department is providing adequate security and senior officials are visiting the camps.

Jiribam MLA Md. Achab Uddin on Saturday visited areas in Assam where Manipur residents have shifted and said that they left their homes mostly because of rumours. I have visited the disturbed areas...there was not much violence. People were afraid that violence from Churachandpur and surrounding areas may spread there, he said.

The Manipur MLA, however, said things are getting back to normal in the state. The Indian Army and other security forces are handling the situation efficiently and the people who migrated will be able to return home in a few days, he said.

On Sunday, former Lakhipur MLA Rajdeep Goala visited the camps and arranged additional food and water for the camps. He said that apart from the adequate supply of essentials by the government, local NGOs are helping the migrants.

Also Read:Fleeing violence, thousands in Manipur face uncertain future

Assam Rifles on Friday night rescued a pregnant woman from violence-hit Manipur and brought her to a shelter camp. According to security forces, they have rescued 51 Assam residents from Manipur who were hiding in a truck.

We received information that armed people were entering Assam by a vehicle on Friday night. When the truck was stopped at the Jiribam-Tamenglong border, we realised that the people in the truck were innocent Assam residents working in Manipur, Assam Rifles said in a statement.

They further said that false rumours are fuelling insecurity among the people in Manipur. Apart from maintaining law and order situations in violence-hit areas, we are proactively taking all steps to prevent false rumours in Jiribam district, they said.

Cachar superintendent of police Numal Mahatta on Sunday said he is in constant touch with his counterpart in Jiribam and the situation is improving there. The Jiribam SP told me that things are getting better and the migrants will be able to return home soon, Mahatta said, appealing to the locals and the migrants to ignore rumours.

We have support from Assam Rifles and the Central Reserve Police Force. We are monitoring each and every move even at night, he added.

The Nagaland government, along with security forces, on Sunday evacuated 676 of its civilians, mostly students and working professions based in Imphal, following the clashes that broke out on May 3.

The civilians were brought back to Nagaland in 24 buses escorted by security forces. Deputy chief minister Yanthungo Patton was among those present to receive the civilians.

Happy about the safe return of people from Nagaland. I express my appreciation to all those involved in coordinating the process, and to the paramilitary forces, especially the Assam Rifles for partnering with the state government in ensuring the return of our people from Manipur, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio tweeted.

Officials said at least 650 more people from Nagaland who are currently in Imphal will be evacuated over the next few days in a phase-wise manner. The state government has appealed to all its citizens who are in Manipur and wish to return home due to the prevailing situation to be patient and contact the state helpline numbers.

The Tripura government arranged two commercial flights to evacuate nearly 208 of its students after speaking to Union home minister Amit Shah and civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

Around 50 students returned to the state on Sunday with the support of royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarma who provided them with free air tickets.

Mizoram rescued 131 of its citizens from Imphal, with another 37 and 28 to be evacuated on May 7 and 8, respectively.

On Sunday, 50 Mizo students were evacuated from Imphal on a commercial flight and taken to Guwahati, and 25 left for Mizoram by bus in the evening.

Another 81 Mizos left Imphal and flew to Kolkata on Sunday evening.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (U.P. ATS) arrested six Rohingyas, a Bangladeshi national and an Indian, at the Jhakarkati bus terminal in Kanpur on Sunday evening. All of them were on way to Jammu via Delhi illegally, the ATS said on Monday. The Rohingyas were brought to India by one Subir Sabdakar of Tripura who was taking them to Jammu in exchange for money and had made forged documents available to them, officials said. (FOR REPRESENTATION)

The ATS, which lodged an FIR at the Gomtinagar police station in the state capital, took them to Lucknow after their arrest.

Those arrested were identified as Mohd Zakaria, Mohd Shoeb, Farsa, Sabkur Nahar, Noor Habiba, all of Myanmar, Subir Sabdakar of Tripura and Razia of Bangladesh.

They were produced in court, which sent them to jail.

Earlier, acting on an input about a group of Rohingyas heading to Jammu, the ATS team closely monitored the bus terminal in Kanpur and made the arrests. The ATS team comprised Champion Lal and Ratnesh Kumar.

The Rohingyas were brought to India by one Subir Sabdakar of Tripura who was taking them to Jammu in exchange for money and had made forged documents available to them, officials said.

ATS said the Rohingyas were in Tripura for two months and they had PAN cards, an Ayushman Bharat card, four Aadhaar cards and one e- Shram card made.

The ATS also recovered two ATM cards, two UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) cards issued from Bangladesh and 11,980 cash, officials said.

After gaining entry into India, the Myanmar nationals, including four women, stayed in a house in Tripura while forged documents were provided to them.

Thereafter, they left with Subir by train from Kumarghat railway station in Tripura. Subir told the ATS his task was to safely help them reach their relatives in Jammu, officials said.
Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday directed the resident commissioner at Bihar Bhawan in New Delhi to arrange special flights to bring back students stranded in strife-torn Manipur by arranging special flights. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar (File Photo)

Following CMs directions, the resident commissioner is coordinating with Manipur authorities to bring back students from different places in the troubled state to the airport by bus. Once the students reach the airport, they will be brought to Patna by a special flight. The CM is increasingly concerned about their safety. The government will make all arrangements for their safe return, said a communique from the information and public relations department.

The first flight will leave Imphal at 6am On Tuesday and reach Patna by 7.35am, said a senior official involved with the process.

Also Read: Over 2,000 people evacuated from violence-hit Manipur

Manipur has several national institutions, including the National Institute of Technology (NIT) and the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), besides medical colleges, where students from across the country are enrolled.

According to Bihar government officials, on the NIT campus, an estimated 150 students are staying who are getting nervous and contacting their families for a return due to disturbances in the neighbourhood. There are other institutions as well where Bihar students might be studying, they said.

The Bihar CM has asked chief secretary Amir Subhani to get in touch with his Manipur counterpart for the safety of Bihar residents living in Manipur and facilitating the return of those desiring to leave the state.

Kumar had earlier expressed concern over violence in Manipur and the safety of Bihar students in the state. Violent clashes broke out earlier this month between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community in the north-eastern state, which has so far displaced more than 13,000 people and killed at least 54.

Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad Yadav took to Twitter to slam Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Manipur is burning and 54 persons have lost their lives so far. In Jammu & Kashmir, two soldiers were martyred. But neither the PM nor the home minister dont even have words for sympathy, while they remain fully engaged in Karnataka electioneering, he wrote.

Also Read: Special flight to be arranged to bring back Maha students stuck in riot-hit Manipur

Soon after, Janata Dal-United president Rajiv Ranjan alias Lalan Singh also attacked the PM for his engagement in electioneering in Karnataka while there is unrest in Manipur. Manipur is burning and you are doing road shows in Karnataka, trying to fan religious passions and reap electoral dividends. Let alone solving the Manipur issue, you have not even expressed concern over it, he wrote on Twitter.

The comments triggered a war of words, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders raising the issue of communal violence witnessed in Biharsharief and Sasaram. Why did the CM and the deputy CM not visit there? The central government is taking all steps to bring back normalcy in Manipur. The PM is concerned and his government is acting. Those who cannot even control Bihar, should not preach on national issues, said leader of the opposition and senior BJP leader Vijay Kumar Sinha.

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The leaders of the three Left parties, which are part of the grand alliance (GA) in Bihar, met the GA leaders and called for a meeting of a joint delegation with chief minister Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav to apprise them of the concerns about the new teachers recruitment rules in regards to the teachers appointed since 2006. The new rules also led to several protests across the state over the modalities of appointment (File Photo)

The Bihar cabinet had last month approved the new teachers recruitment rules, clearing the decks for the long-pending recruitment of teachers in the state. Under the new rules, the appointment of teachers will be through a commission. However, the new rules led to several protests across the state over the modalities of appointment which are a clear departure from the current mechanism.

It is important to collectively make the CM and the deputy CM aware of the growing resentment of teachers and the aspirants with the exam rider, the leaders said after meeting Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) state president Jagdanand Singh, Congress state president Akhilesh Prasad Singh and the Janata Dal-United (JD-U) state president Umesh Kushwaha on Sunday.

Also Read: Bihar cabinet clears new rules for teachers recruitment

The Left party leaders included Communist Party of India (MarxistLeninist) Liberation state secretary Kunal and senior leader KD Yadav, Communist Party of India state secretary Ramnaresh Pandey and leader Janaki Paswan and Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Arun Mishra.

They said that it was important to address the concerns of the teachers, who are around four lakh in number, and the best way forward was to talk to their representatives.

At a time when the Bharatiya Janata Party is encouraging contractual appointments and restricting job opportunities in all fields, the Bihar governments move to give teachers the status of a government employee is a welcome step. However, the exam rider should not be imposed on teachers already working for years. As per the 2000 announcement of the GA, all the teachers should get the status of government employees and the aspirants for the already announced seventh phase should be exempted from the exam, they said.

The move of the left parties is significant as the Bihar Secondary Teachers Association, the oldest teachers body in the state, along with primary teachers bodies have announced phase-wide agitation at the divisional headquarters from May 20 against the Bihar state school teachers (appointment, transfer, disciplinary action, and service condition) rules, 2023.

We have been also consistently writing to the chief minister and education minister since the notification of the new rules regarding talks to apprise them of the concerns of teachers. Our sole demand is that they should also be adjusted as government employees without exams, as they have put in up to 16 years of service since their appointments in 2016 by the Nitish-led government only and have cleared all exams conducted by the state government over the years, said the left leaders.

They left leaders said that there has been a precedence of absorption of teachers in the state. In 1980, privately-owned schools were also taken over by the government and the teachers absorbed without exams. Again in 2006, the Shiksha Mitras appointed by the RJD government were also absorbed as teachers by the Nitish-led government without exams. There is no justification for exams when the teachers have already worked for so long and cleared all tests, they said.

So far, the government has been firm that as per the new rules, the teachers would have to clear the competitive test conducted by the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) for availing of the state government status.

Also Read: Bihar: New rules for teachers recruitment stir unrest

The state government has approved the Bihar State School Teachers (Recruitment, transfer, disciplinary action and service conditions) rules, 2023, and decided to recruit a fresh lot of teachers through the BPSC, while phasing out the prevalent system of appointment through Panchayati Raj bodies and urban local bodies on a fixed pay. However, the teachers appointed through the previous process are up in arms and agitating against the new policy across the state.

The government has already announced the appointment of 1.78 lakh teachers, including 33,186 in secondary schools and 57,618 in higher secondary schools, which will cost the exchequer Rs.10,623 crore.

The rules state that all those having qualified teachers eligibility tests organised by the Centre and the state and conforming to provisions laid down by the National Council for Teachers Education (NCTE) and Rehabilitation Council of India (for teachers in special schools) would be eligible for appointment as teachers.

In the 2022-23 budget, the Bihar government announced to appoint 48,762 primary teachers, 5,886 physical education trainers, 44,193 teachers in secondary schools, 89,734 teachers in higher secondary schools and 7,360 computer teachers.

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Pune: The Pune city police have registered 25 cases of cheating via fake websites with citizens losing money between 10,000 and 2 lakh since January 2023 till date. Recently, a citizen was cheated of 16,000 by online fraudsters after she logged onto a fake website of Tadoba National Park. Kothrud police station is probing the case filed the public relations professional, cybercrime officials at Shivajinagar said. The unsuspecting user is induced to pay online and once the payment is done, the customer either never gets the ordered product. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC)

The fraudsters create a genuine looking website of known brand, government bodies, private and nationalised banks. The unsuspecting user is induced to pay online and once the payment is done, the customer either never gets the ordered product or the amount is deducted online from the persons debit or credit card.

The victim who did not wish to be identified stated that anybody planning a safari in a tiger park of reserve should be careful about websites.

I lost 16,000 while trying to book a safari in Tadoba buffer through a website. The official website of Tadoba is www.mytadoba.org while I did the booking on tadobanationalparkonline.in. However, since I got logged out due to technical reasons, I could not complete booking for two more slots. Later in the evening, when I discussed the issue with my friend, she told me that the website I used to carry out the booking was not genuine and I was duped. I have lodged a case with the cyber cell and investigation is on, she said.

Pune resident Pramod Laddha who searched for hotels online for his Ujjain visit was cheated of 23,000. Laddha wanted to book two rooms and paid 23,000 deposit against the booking on March 3 for a website of Mansarovar hotel. His FIR stated that he had downloaded the payment receipt and when he went to check in on March 9, he was denied entry by the manager citing that no such transaction had taken place.

Sriniwas Ghadge, deputy commissioner of police (EOW), said, Many educated persons are falling victim to such scams. We promptly register cases and ensure that refund is made at the earliest.

Lawyer Milind Pawar said, Always visit genuine websites and do due diligence before making any financial transaction. Also call up the concerned number on any website and check reviews posted by previous visitors.

Preventive steps

Dont fall prey to discounts, especially on aspirational products like mobile phones, costly shoes, leather accessories, electronic gadgets

Search online credentials of shopping portals

Prefer cash-on-delivery than affront payment, especially for new, untested shopping portals

A fraud shopping site not only cheats through non-delivery of promised products, but also captures debit/credit card credentials and may sell it on dark web.

Dont make payment using credit/debit card on untested e-commerce sites unless the payment link is taking you to a verified, secure payment gateway
Sharad Pawar may have withdrawn his resignation as Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president but the dust refuses to settle over the issue. On Monday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed that Sharad Pawars resignation as NCP president and subsequent U-turn was nothing but a nautanki or drama. Bawankule dubbed the entire resignation episode as an orchestrated one. On Monday, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed that Sharad Pawars resignation as NCP president and subsequent U-turn was nothing but a nautanki or drama. (HT PHOTO)

Bawankule alleged that Sharad Pawar had previously altered the constitution of the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha to hold on to the reins of the prominent educational institute. Bawankule was in Pune speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a conclave of BJP in-charges of poll booths.

When asked about the churn caused by Sharad Pawars announcement to step down as NCP chief and his subsequent rescinding of the decision, Bawankule said that all the developments in the NCP over the last three days were scripted and that everyone knew this. How can a senior leader like Sharad Pawar who became the president of several cooperative bodies including the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha by altering their constitutions, allow anyone to become the president of the party founded by him? the BJP state unit chief questioned.

Bawankule said he was aware of the recent NCP game. This episode was nothing but a vagnatya (folk drama). I knew they wanted to do a nautanki for three days which they did, he said.

Bawankule clarified that the BJP had never contacted NCP leader Ajit Pawar and that fake news was being spread. Rather, Ajit Pawar was being targeted by the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) including the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP and Congress, he said. Neither I nor Ajit Pawar have been in contact with each other for the last four months. In fact, Pawar junior is being targeted by the MVA. We (BJP) never contacted Ajit dada and imaginary news is being circulated, Bawankule said.

Last month, there was speculation about Ajit Pawars next political move after Sharad Pawar reportedly told Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray that NCP will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so. Ajit Pawar however refuted all such speculation and said he would remain with the NCP till he lived.

Bawankule also responded to allegations of NCP being BJPs B team in the Karnataka polls by fielding at least 40 candidates, saying they were untrue. The BJP does not need the help of NCP. The BJP is present at the grassroots level in Karnataka. The way Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reaching out to people there, we are sure to win more than 105 seats and form a government (again), he said.

No back-up plan

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule refused to reply when asked if his party has a Plan B ready in anticipation of an adverse Supreme Court (SC) ruling on the dispute between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde.

There is no place for ifs and buts in life. Let the decision come. If the opposition demands to prove a majority tomorrow, the Shinde-led government (of which BJP is a part) will win the majority with more than 184 votes (in a 288-member house), Bawankule said.

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PUNE In their draft, the plaintiffs pointed out that such depleted road conditions lead to wasteful fuel use, pollutant emissions, and a rise in carbon footprints. (HT PHOTO)

Prominent civic activists Qaneez Sukhrani and Pushkar Kulkarni have filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Bombay High Court (HC) challenging the negligence of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) in repairing, maintaining and layering roads in the city according to correct scientific technique.

The activists in their petition noted that it is a well-known fact that the roads of Pune City are consistently in damaged and ruinous condition.

The activists further said that citizens have been accustomed to patches of the road disintegrating and being peppered with potholes. Motorists are left to dodge and weave through these dexterously to navigate safely. This creates dangerous road conditions and increases traffic volume and congestion, especially during the monsoon season.

In their draft, the plaintiffs pointed out that such depleted road conditions lead to wasteful fuel use, pollutant emissions, and a rise in carbon footprints.

The PMCs neglect is even more egregious given that the courts orders in multiple PILs have resulted in the formation of expert panels that have provided over 100 action points for the Municipal Corporation to undertake to repair, maintain, and layer roads, streets, and lanes within the city, according to the petition.

PMC repairs maintains, and layers roads, streets, and lanes using in-house methods. Due to the civic bodys negligence, Pune citizens have been forced to accept the citys permanent status of dangerous roads, and annually witness a colossal waste of resources as roads are shoddily and unevenly patched up, and potholes are superficially filled.

The activists further stated that stormwater drainage must be upgraded such that periodic desilting, as well as frequent inspections, take place before the monsoon season.

The design of flexible and stiff pavements should adhere according to the Indian Road Congress (IRC) requirements, particularly IRC 37:2012 and IRC 58:2011. Moreover, even though the respondent corporation has a statutory duty to maintain the roads in Pune under Section 63 (18) of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949 (MMC Act 1949), the PMC is not in compliance with various government resolutions and circulars regarding road quality maintenance, the petition read.
PUNE Due to higher water demands, the number of water tanker trips rose from 306,842 in 2021-22 to 354,254 in 2022-23. (RAHUL RAUT/ HT PHOTO)

With the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) claiming to supply tanker water free-of-cost to housing societies even as the latter claim they have to buy the tanker water from contractors, both housing societies and civic activists are now suggesting that the civic body develop an application (app) to clear these loopholes and bring transparency in the tanker water system.

After the merger of 23 villages with the PMC, it was not possible to supply tap water to these villages due to which the PMC began supplying tanker water through its own tankers and contractors appointed by it. The number of water tanker trips rose from 306,842 in 2021-22 to 354,254 in 2022-23. Additionally, private tanker owners would purchase water from the PMC at Rs650 per 10,000 litres and supply this water to housing societies within the PMC jurisdiction at a rate fixed by the PMC. The private tanker owners were not allowed to buy water from the PMC to supply outside the corporation limits. However, there have been complaints that private tanker owners are selling the water purchased from the PMC to societies outside the PMC jurisdiction. Thereafter, the PMC has made a GPS tracker system mandatory for every tanker so that it can be tracked. According to the PMC, private tanker owners are not allowed to sell water outside the corporation limits.

Prasana Joshi, superintendent engineer of the PMC water supply department, said, We are trying our best to supply water to the fringe areas of Pune. All tanker water is free and we supply as per the peoples demands. We maintain registration of all tankers at nine tanker points. We take these kinds of measures to provide the maximum water to people as it is our duty to do so.

A PMC-appointed contractor said, There is a proper system of water tankers. We get the address and number of people in the society to whom water has to be supplied. After that, we send tankers to the society. There is a proper record maintained by the PMC officials. We send tankers to each society thrice a week. It is not possible for the PMC to supply tankers on a daily basis to every society. Every society needs at least three to four tankers per day to fulfil its residents water needs. The PMC has a total of 27 contractors who supply water to different parts of the city as per demand.

Whereas Sanivkumar Patil, president of the Wagholi Housing Societies Association, which is one of the petitioners against the PMC and the state government, said, Our association is a group of 350 societies. But we havent received any free water tanker from the corporation. To avoid these loopholes in the system, we have to do something which will help both the PMC and the societies.

I think the PMC should develop a special app for tankers so as to bring transparency in the system. This will help both the senders and receivers. We are ready to help the PMC to develop the app as we have a team of IT professionals, Patil said.

Civic activist Vivek Velankar said, There is no proper system or data maintained by the corporation. They show water tanker trips on paper but actually, the trips do not take place. There is a lack of transparency in tanker water supply. I too suggest that the PMC develops an app for tanker water. It will benefit the people. However, the PMC has to show willingness to do all these things.

Launch Phase 1 of 24x7 water scheme: Guardian Minister

Pune guardian minister Chandrakant Patil held a review meeting wherein he instructed Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials to complete the first phase of the 24x7 equitable water supply scheme in time for it to be inaugurated on May 17. Once the first phase of the project is launched, residents of Baner-Balewadi will get 24x7 water supply.

PMC commissioner Vikram Kumar; additional commissioner Vikas Dhakne; chief engineer of the water supply department Anirudh Pawaskar; and superintending engineer of the 24x7 scheme Nandakumar Jagtap were present at the meeting held at the Government Rest House.

Patil instructed PMC officials, The ongoing work of the water supply scheme through the municipal corporation should be completed speedily. Also, a meter should be installed for water measurement.

Jagtap said, We had set April-end as deadline for completion of work in the Baner-Balewadi area but it got delayed. Now, we will complete the work till May 15. A total 23 kilometres of transmission line is being laid in the Baner-Balewadi area and work on four overhead water tanks has been completed. We have deputed multiple agencies to complete the work as per schedule.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) does not have funds to install fire safety systems in its schools. An internal audit revealed that out of 160 school buildings, only 60 had fire safety norms in place. Most civic school buildings are old and do not have space to install systems. (HT PHOTO)

As per construction department officials, PMC needs around 30 crore to set up fire-fighting systems in all schools and it will take almost two years to complete the work.

Harshada Shinde, superintendent engineer of the building construction department said, It is our priority to install fire safety system and we will do it during the summer vacation when schools are shut. We have made provision of 1.50 crore for the work. Most school buildings are old and do not have space to install systems. These systems will be installed as per the availability of funds. We get only three months during summer and Diwali vacation period to install the system. System consists of three phase electrical connection, water tank, pump, sprinkler, extinguishers, smoke alarms.

According to PMC officials, they had installed fire safety systems in 60 schools in 2018 and work on the same continued till 2020. Later, the schools were shut for two years due to the pandemic, and as a result, the system developed a problem and remained unrepaired since then.

Ramesh Danagat, senior fire department official said, As per fire safety Act, every establishment should check the fire-fighting system once a year. In new PMC schools, there is a fire-fighting system. The fire systems in old schools must be checked every six months by the fire department appointed agency and a report must be submitted. We have conveyed our concern to the construction department .

The PMC education board runs 309 schools, of which 225 are Marathi medium, 34 Urdu medium, 2 Kannada medium and 50 English medium schools. They have a staff of 3,500 people of which. 2,500 is teaching and the rest are non-teaching staff. Over one lakh students study in PMC-run schools, said officials.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) conducted a pilot study to employ drones to combat mosquitos on the Mula-Mutha riverbed and three lakes inside the PMC boundary. The experiment began on Monday, May 8, 2023, at Katraj Lake. Katraj Lake has a total size of around 70 acres. A drone then sprayed pesticides over a 20-acre portion of the lake. A drone then sprayed pesticides over a 20-acre portion of the lake. (HT PHOTO)

Suryakant Devkar, Assistant Medical officer of PMC health department said, We took police permission before starting the experiment. The process started at 10 am and it took four hours to sprinkle pesticides on a 20-acre area of Katraj Lake. Drones can carry 10 litres of pesticides at one time. After this success, we will carry out other parts of the city areas where people face mosquito menace.
RANCHI: Five alleged Maoists, including a zonal commander surrendered before the authorities in Ranchi on Monday, officials said. The five Maoists at the police headquarters in Ranchi on Monday. (HT Photo)

According to officials, one of the Maoist, Amarjeet Yadav was the zonal commander of the Kaleshwari sub-zone in the Chatra district.

Wanted in dozen cases registered in Chatra, Hazaribag, and neighbouring Gaya district in Bihar, the Maoists, who together carried a reward of 15 lakh on their head, handed over sophisticated weapons, including two AK56 rifles, one SLR, and Insan rifles each besides several rounds of magazines and ammunition, at a special function organised in the state capital.

Today is a very historical day as the Kaleshwari sub-zone in Jharkhand which was afflicted with Naxalism for the past 30 years has got rid of it to some extent by the joint and continued efforts of Jharkhand Police and CRPF, said AV Homkar, IG Operations, Jharkhand Police.

Police officials said the surrender was a shot in the arm for the security establishment as it comes a month after five top Maoists were killed in an encounter in the Kaleshwari sub-zone on April 4, including two special area committee members Gautam Paswan and Charlis Oroan.

Another wanted Maoist, Indal Ganjhu, a member of the regional committee member carrying a reward of 15 lakh surrendered on May 4 before Chatra police, an official said.

Amarjeet Yadav was right hand man of Gautam Paswan. After his encounter last month, the Maoists were deliberating on making Yadav the regional commander. He is named in 81 cases registered across different districts in Jharkhand and Bihar, an official said.
Indian-origin engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, was among the nine people killed when a gun-wielding man opened fire at shoppers outside a mall in Dallas area in the US on Saturday, The New York Post reported. Officials continue to investigate the May 6 mass shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets mall. (Getty Images via AFP)

Thatikonda, a project manager with a private company in Dallas and a resident of Saroornagar in Hyderabad had moved to the US from India. According to local media reports the 27-year-old was shopping with a friend at the Allen Premium Outlets in the northern suburbs of Dallas when a gunman opened fire.

The assailant identified as Mauricio Garcia was later shot dead by a police officer.

Thatikonda, 27, lived and worked in McKinney, Texas while her family was in India, Texas-based WFAA television station reported.

According to a family representative, the Indian-origin girl was with a friend at the outlet mall when the shots rang out. Her friend who also sustained injuries is currently in stable condition at the hospital, the network was cited in the WFAA report.

Thatikonda's family plans to bring her body back to India, the representative said.

As per her LinkedIn profile, Thatikonda had been working in Dallas for over two years.In a statement, the Allen Premium Outlets stated: "We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country," according to The New York Post.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders."

Brian E Harvey, the chief of police in Allen, Texas, said at a news conference on Saturday night that the gunman acted alone. A police officer, who was on another assignment at the mall at the time of the shooting, heard gunfire, rushed towards it, and killed the shooter.

Around 3:30 pm (local time), a shooting was witnessed at the Allen Premium Outlets, an outdoor shopping centre with more than 120 retailers located about 25 miles north of Dallas, according to The New York Times.

Social media users posted a video showing the shooter lying on the ground, dressed in all-black, holding a long rifle, and what appeared to be several rounds of ammo and a tactical vest.

Hundreds of customers were seen leaving the area on video taken from the scene while many of them had their hands raised. The aerial footage showed at least three bodies covered in sheets outside the mall, reported New York Times.

According to US Census Bureau, Texas has the second-largest Indian-American population in the US as of 2020. In 2010, there were 230,842 Indian Americans in Texas, making up 0.9 per cent of the population.

According to the data shared by the Open Doors, about half of the Indian students are pursuing higher education in six US states including New York, California, Texas, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Arizona. Texas had 19,382 Indian students in 2021
Karnataka SSLC or Class 10 final exam results were announced today, May 8, 2023. Karnataka Class 10th results are available on karresults.nic.in. Karnataka SSLC result 2023 live updates. Karnataka SSLC Result 2023: Class 10th results today on karresults.nic.in(Hindustan Times)

SSLC annual exams in Karnataka were held from March 31 to April 14. The board will announce these results at a press conference scheduled for 10 am.

Karnataka SSLC answer keys were released on April 17, 2023 . The evaluation process of Karnataka SSLC answer sheets started on April 21.

This year, over 8 lakh candidates appeared for the Karnataka SSLC examination.

Karnataka SSLC result 2023: How to check

Go to karresults.nic.in. On the home page, open the link to view Karnataka SSLC result 2023. Enter the asked login credentials. Submit and download your result.
Directorate of Government Examinations, Tamil Nadu, TNDGE will release Tamil Nadu Board Class 12 Result 2023 today, May 8, 2023. Candidates who have appeared for Class 12 board exams can check their TN Plus 2 Results at 9.30 am. The result link will be available at tnresults.nic.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, dge2.tn.nic.in and dge.tn.gov.in. TN +2 result 2023 live updates. TN +2 result 2023 today(HT file)

The Tamil Nadu +2 results will be announced at the press conference to be conducted by the Board. The pass percentage, toppers name, supplementary exam dates and other details will also be announced along with the declaration of results.

To check the results, candidates can follow the steps given below.

 Visit the official site of TNDGE.

 Click on Tamil Nadu Board Class 12 Result 2023 link available on the home page.

 Enter the required details and click on submit.

 Your result will be displayed on the screen.

 Check the result and download the page.

 Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

The Class 12 board exams were started on March 13 and ended on April 3, 2023 in the state at various exam centres. Candidates can check more related details through the official site of TNDGE.
Gyokko, the Upper Rank 5 demon in the beloved anime series Demon Slayer, has captivated viewers with his eerie appearance and powerful abilities. Holding the fifth highest position in the Twelve Kizuki, Gyokko is a highly formidable demon with a Blood Demon Art and techniques that surpass even the most skilled Demon Slayers. Gyokko, a powerful demon in the anime Demon Slayer, wows fans with his eerie appearance and deadly abilities.(Ufotable)

What does Demon Slayer's Gyokko look like?

Gyokko's appearance is undeniably unsettling, with a bizarre physiology that includes a grotesque, pale white humanoid upper torso without arms emerging from a porcelain vase. Multiple infant-like hands adorn his head and back, while his face is further distorted with green mouths in the place of eyes, and his real eyes are located vertically on his face.

In battle, Gyokko can transform into his true form, resembling a merman with transparent scales akin to a fish covering his now-humanoid body and a serpentine tail in place of his legs. In the Swordsmith Village Arc, Gyokko spawns a multitude of monstrous fish-like creatures that terrorize and kill the villagers. These unique creatures can only be killed by destroying the pots on their backs, and they possess diverse traits, such as sharp claws, monstrous teeth, or multiple humanoid legs.

What techniques has Gyokko used so far?

Gyokko's techniques are equally formidable. The Thousand Needle Fish Kill summons floating fish demons that spew poisonous needles with paralyzing properties. The Water Prison Pot creates a vase made of water that suffocates and immobilizes the target, preventing them from using breathing techniques to escape.

Fans are eagerly anticipating the continuation of the battle between Gyokko and the skilled swordsman and Hashira, Muichiro. Although Gyokko's techniques are deadly, Muichiro's prowess and experience will likely help him overcome his foe. However, viewers can expect an intense and thrilling fight between two powerful opponents.

Gyokko's unique appearance and abilities make him a fascinating and formidable addition to the Demon Slayer universe. As the series progresses, fans await to see what other surprises this Upper-Rank demon has in store.
Aamir Khan is on a break from films and has now flown to Nepal for a ten-day vipassana meditation programme. The actor will participate in a programme at the Vipassana Meditation Centre located in Budhanilkantha, around 12 kms away from Kathmandu. It is known among Kathmandu's most prominent meditation centres. Also read: Naga Chaitanya reveals why he worked in Laal Singh Chaddha, talks about Aamir Khan and film's failure Aamir Khan at an event in Delhi last month. (PTI)

Rup Jyoti, an official from the Vipashna Center in Nepal, told ANI, "Yes he is here to undergo 11 days Vipashna meditation. He has already been enrolled in the session from today. From airport he directly came to Budhanilkantha and started the session."

The actor reached Kathmandu Sunday morning, an official at the Immigration Office said. "Aamir Khan arrived in Kathmandu Sunday morning on board Vistara Airlines," the official told PTI.

Aamir had last visited Nepal to attend an event of UNICEF in Kathmandu in 2014.

After the release of Laal Singh Chaddha last year, Aamir had announced that he will take a long break from acting. He has not announced any new projects. He however makes occasional appearances at film and public events and parties. He was spotted at Arpita Khan's Eid bash and also at the inauguration of National Conclave on Mann Ki Baat @100 in Delhi last month.

Aamir is currently seen on screen in several Dream11 commercials in which he takes a dig at himself and his film Laal Singh Chaddha.

In November last year, Aamir attended an event in Delhi where he talked about taking time off for himself. He had said, When I am doing a film as an actor, I get so lost in that that nothing else happens in my life. I was supposed to do a film after Laal Singh Chaddha called Champions. Its a wonderful script, a beautiful story, and its a very heartwarming and lovely film. But I feel that I want to take a break, be with my family, with my mom, my kids.

"This is the time I feel I have to take some time off to be with them, and actually experience life in a different way. I am looking forward to the next year, year-and-a-half in which I am not working as an actor, he had added.

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Actor Anupam Kher recently opened up about the controversy around The Kerala Story and said that people who are opposing the film, also criticised The Kashmir Files. Both The Kashmir Files and The Kerala Story triggered massive political rows. Many called them propaganda films as well. Also read: Mamata Banerjee announces ban on The Kerala Story in West Bengal, film producer reacts Anupam Kher on The Kerala Story controversy.

Talking about The Kerala Story, Anupam told the news agency ANI, They are the same faces who are opposing such films and they can be seen everywhere. Be it CAA protest or Shaheen Bagh protest or JNU protest. They were the same faces who criticised The Kashmir Files. I don't know their motive and neither believe in paying attention towards them. In fact, they have become redundant."

He added, "Again I would say they are the same faces. I have not seen the film but I am happy that people are making films which are close to reality. And those who feel it is a propaganda are free to make movies dealing with the subject they find perfect. No one is stopping them.

Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, The Kerala Story stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in the lead roles. The trailer of the film came under fire as it previously claimed that 32,000 girls from the state went missing and later joined the terrorist group, ISIS.

Earlier in the day, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee announced a ban on the film. She said, West Bengal govt has decided to ban the movie The Kerala Story. This is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and to maintain peace in the state. She also said, What is The Kashmir files? it is to humiliate one section. What is The Kerala story?... It is a distorted story.

While many are seeking a ban on the film, several celebrities have shared their thoughts about the film. Shabana Azmi tweeted, Those who speak of banning #The Kerala Story are as wrong as those who wanted to ban Aamir Khans #Laal Singh Chaadha. Once a film has been passed by the Central Board of Film Certification nobody has the right to become an extra constitutional authority.

This is a very valid point except for the fact that no one asked for a ban on LSC people just didnt want to see it for many reasons, major reason was it was a remake of a very popular old Hollywood classic which most people had already seen, responded Kangana to Shabanas post.

Previously, the Kerala High Court had noted on Friday that the producers have published a disclaimer along with the movie which specifically says that the film has fictionalised and is a dramatised version of events and that the film doesn't claim accuracy or factuality of historic events. The Kerala Story released on May 5.

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Actor Deepika Padukone was recently in Bengaluru where she attended motivational speaker-author Jay Shetty's show. Several videos and pictures of the actor from inside the venue emerged online. Deepika's sister Anisha Padukone also accompanied the actor for Jay's Love Rules Tour show. (Also Read | Deepika Padukone showers love on Alia Bhatt days after her Met Gala debut, Reddit calls it damage control) Deepika Padukone attended Jay Shetty's show in Bengaluru with her sister Anisha Padukone.

For the show, Deepika opted for a white shirt, denims and shoes. Her sister Anisha opted for a black top with a denim jacket and denims. In several clips, several people in the audience screamed and shouted, "Deepika, we love you." When a fan said, "love you Deepu," the actor blew a kiss. Sharing the clip, the fan wrote, "She gave me a flying kiss."

Sharing a clip of Deepika and Anisha on Twitter, a fan wrote, "How pretty is @deepikapadukone. She just sat a row behind me and she's just soooo gorgeous." In several other clips, Deepika was seen exiting the venue with her security team. The clips were posted on Twitter by a fan account. The caption read, "Deepika attended Jay Shetty's Love Rules Tour show in Bangalore with her family yesterday."

A fan shared a post on Instagram in which she posed with Deepika.

A fan shared a post on Instagram in which she posed with Deepika. Sharing the post, she wrote, "Went to hear and meet the most amazing person on earth (aka @jayshetty ) Had the most phenomenal experience of my life! Cried, laughed, introspected and reflected on stage and off stage! Called out by my name by my favourite actress and the very beautiful @deepikapadukone. Best night? Of course!!"

Deepika returned to Mumbai on Sunday evening. She was seen at the airport dressed in casuals. For her travel, the actor wore a white T-shirt, denim jacket, pants and sneakers. She also carried a bag and opted for dark sunglasses. As she got inside her car, a child came forward to click a photo with her. However, her security team member pushed him away. Deepika then called the child and posed for a picture with him.

Last week, Deepika was spotted at the Mumbai airport with her father and badminton legend Prakash Padukone. Clad in an all-white co-ord set, she looked gorgeous. Deepika posed for the paparazzi and greeted them.

Deepika will be next seen in the upcoming action thriller Project K opposite actor Prabhas. She also has Siddharth Anand's next aerial action thriller, Fighter, opposite Hrithik Roshan in the pipeline. Fighter, which is scheduled to release on January 25 next year, will also star Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover and Akshay Oberoi.

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Filmmaker Mahesh Tilekar, best known for directing Marathi films, has accused Kareena Kapoor Khan of ignoring fans, and even a co-star. He cited an incident from eight years ago when he was travelling with his Marathi troupe and saw Kareena at the airport. In his long note on social media, Mahesh also mentioned that even Radhika Apte does not like giving autographs, adding that stars mingle with their fans only to promote their films and shows. (Also read: Kareena Kapoor waves at fan who tells her ek baar hath lagane do) Kareena Kapoor was recently seen in Laal Singh Chaddha.

Mahesh wrote, Recently, I watched an interview of Infosys founder Narayana Murthy who narrated an incident when he was returning to India from London. He said that Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor was sitting in front of him and he greeted the people who approached him but she ignored all the fans who wished interact with her, disrespecting their emotions. The incident disturbed Murthy very much. What is the use of such arrogance?"

Eight years ago, we were waiting in the check-in line at the airport when I noticed Kareena was standing next to one of the actresses from our programme. She went to Kareena Kapoor and greeted her. She wanted to click a pic with Kareena but the Bollywood star ignored her, leaving her upset. She had even worked in one of Kareena Kapoors well-known flicks, the actress did not care to turn around to look at her.

He added, These celebs do not have issues in interacting with fans when promoting their OTT shows or films, but can't show decency otherwise. Radhika Apte had said she does not like to give autographs and click selfies with people. But a few days ago, while promoting her Hindi film, she was seen clicking selfies with some of the famous social media influencers.

Mahesh has made films such as Ghar Grihasti, Ladi Godi, Chalta Hai Yaar, One Room Kitchen, Gaon Tasa Changala and Hawahawai. His post comes at a time when internet is supporting Kareena for simply waving at a fan who wanted to touch her. She and her actor-husband Saif Ali Khan stepped out for a dinner date in Mumbai where a fan wanted to touch her hand. Kareena smiled and greeted her, but politely declined the request.

Kareena currently has a long list of films in the pipeline. These include Hansal Mehta and Sujoy Ghosh's respective films and Rhea Kapoor's The Crew.

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Actor Shraddha Kapoor's accents in a new video is leaving the internet impressed. She went from flaunting her French accent to her British accent and even an American accent. She also reminded people of Emma Watson's iconic character Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter franchise. Also read: Neetu Kapoor shares her favourite scene from son Ranbir Kapoor's Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar Shraddha Kapoor was last seen in Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar.

The video features Shraddha sitting on a couch. She wore a crop top, jeans and a statement jacket. Someone from behind the camera tells her, Internet believes that you are incredible at accents. Is this true?" The actor responds in a French accent, Of course, it is.

She continues in the same accent, It's so true that I feel like when I used to stand in front of a mirror, I would do accents but only I would be clapping because there would be no audience. Sometimes it would be French, sometimes it would suddenly be British. She switches to a British accent.

She adds in the same tongue, And then I would be like okay, I think hopefully it's not going to red now. She further changed her accent to an American one and says, You are asking for an American now. That's really what you wanted. You could have just really said that. Please tell me to keep quiet guys, she says in the end with a serious face.

Sharing the video, Netflix India wrote on Instagram, Leave it up to @shraddhakapoor to lie her way through this test in a French, British and an American accent effortlessly! Reacting to the fun video, a fan wrote in the comment section, I refuse to believe she is Shakti Kapoor's daughter.

The British accent literally sounds like Hermione Granger, added another fan. One more commented, She has proved herself, now cast her in an international series.

Shraddha was last seen in Luv Ranjan's Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar. It starred her opposite Ranbir Kapoor for the first time. The story of the film revolved around a couple who fell in love while holidaying in Spain during their friends' bachelorette. While everything was going fine in their lives until Shraddha aka Tinni's childhood trauma hits her and she wishes to back out from her relationship due to Ranbir aka Rohan's family.

The film was released on March 8 in theatres and recently premiered on Netflix.

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Uorfi Javed has spoken about an incident when she was uninvited from an event in Mumbai 'at the last moment' as she was not on actor Madhuri Dixit's 'guest list'. Taking to Twitter on Sunday night, Uorfi shared a post and explained what happened. She didn't caption the post but added an emoji. (Also Read | Zeenat Aman meets Uorfi Javed, fans think the veteran actor was 'staring at her from top to bottom'. Watch) Uorfi Javed has shared her reaction to being cancelled at an event at the last minute.

Uorfi shared a screenshot of Madhuri Dixit from a paparazzo's Instagram account. She wrote, "Fun fact about this event - they reached out to my team inviting me, I accepted the invitation, cancelled my plans, arranged my outfit, last moment they told me, team that I'm no more invited."

She added, "When we asked them the reason they said I'm not on Madhuri's guest list (what a weird reason). Bhai mai mar nahi rahi kahi jaane k Iiye (I am not dying to go anywhere) but to tell someone not to come last moment after inviting them. Grow some balls or borrow from me!"

In her next tweet, Uorfi spoke about actor Kangana Ranaut. She wrote, "Im slowly and slowly understanding why Kangana behaves the way she does. When youve been ganged up against for so long, you go hard! You go queen (face savouring delicious food and crying emojis) @KanganaTeam."

In her next tweet, Uorfi spoke about actor Kangana Ranaut.

Reacting to the incident, a person wrote, "You are absolutely right! I support you both gorgeous girls." Another fan said, "Stay strong ma'am." A comment read, "You also go, queen." "Come on Uorfi. You are on my guest list," said a Twitter user. "That's called maturity with experience! She's the most misunderstood actress. More power to you," commented another person.

Uorfi rose to fame after featuring in Bigg Boss OTT in 2021. She is known for her unconventional choice of outfits. Recently, Uorfi was seen at an event where she interacted with veteran actor Zeenat Aman.

Earlier this year, Uorfi turned model for ace designer duo Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and was seen in a golden saree. The social media team of Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla took to their Instagram and shared some pictures of Uorfi. They captioned the post, Love her or hate her, you cannot ignore her. Previously, Uorfi had walked the ramp for designer Arshi Singhal.

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The Kardashian family knows how to throw a party, and this time it was for the youngest member of the clan, Psalm West, who turned four on May 9. But the family decided to celebrate early with a fireman-themed party at Kim Kardashian's sprawling Calabasas home. US socialite Kim Kardashian arrives for the 2023 Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 1, 2023, in New York. - The Gala raises money for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. The Gala's 2023 theme is Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.(AFP)

Kim went all out, with balloons, treats, and refreshments depicting firefighters, fire trucks, flames, and Dalmatians. The guests, including Psalm's three elder siblings - North, Saint, and Chicago, as well as his aunt Khloe Kardashian, her on-and-off boyfriend Tristan Thompson, and their daughter True, donned personalized firefighter costumes complete with name tags. But the party didn't stop there.

Kim went all out, with balloons, treats, and refreshments depicting firefighters, fire trucks, flames, and Dalmatians.(Instagram/kimkardashian)

Kim's friend Natalie Halcro planned the bash, which featured special guests from the Santa Fe Springs fire department, around 40 miles away from the Kardashian-Jenner home. The firefighters brought along their original fire engine from 1958 and gave the guests rides on it, much to the delight of the children. Kim shared a clip of herself riding in front with Khloe, while North and the group were in the back, yelling, "Going on a fire truck ride!".

Kim expressed her gratitude to the firefighters, who are always ready to help their families in Calabasas.(Instagram/kimkardashian)

Kim expressed her gratitude to the firefighters, who are always ready to help their families in Calabasas. She later shared the party's highlights on her Instagram stories, while Khloe celebrated her nephew's special day with a TikTok that included lots of Dalmatian decor, red balloons, and plenty of snacks. The video featured True and her cousin Dream, as well as Stormi, Kylie Jenner, and Travis Scott's daughter.

The party wasn't complete without a pinata, and Khloe shared photos of the kids, including Psalm, trying to break a firetruck-shaped one.(Instagram/kimkardashian)

The party wasn't complete without a pinata, and Khloe shared photos of the kids, including Psalm, trying to break a firetruck-shaped one. All of the children had a turn at bat, while the proud mom and aunt cheered them on.

It's unclear whether Psalm's dad, Kanye West, was present at the party, but Kim didn't let that dampen the festivities. She threw an epic bash that her son would never forget, with real firefighters and all the trimmings.

It's unclear whether Psalm's dad, Kanye West, was present at the party, but Kim didn't let that dampen the festivities. She threw an epic bash that her son would never forget, with real firefighters and all the trimmings.(Instagram/kimkardashian)

Psalm may be only four years old, but he's already got a job waiting for him with the Santa Fe Springs fire department. The firefighters expressed their appreciation for being a part of his special day and added, Psalm, you have a job waiting for you whenever you're ready!
JD Majethia is crossing an item off his bucket list. The actor-producer is trekking his way to Mount Everest base camp. He set off this week to complete a lifelong dream and has been sharing his adventures from his trekking journey on Instagram. JD was seen having a laugh with a local and they both filmed each other and singing a Bollywood song as he trekked. Fans cheered him on and commended him on his expedition. (Also read: The return of Khichdi and Sarabhai vs Sarabhai: My way of keeping peoples spirits high in Covid-19 crisis, says JD Majethia) JD Majethia is making his way to Mt Everest base camp.

Earlier this week, the 54-year-old producer posted a video of himself being dropped off at the Mumbai airport. His dog was also present in the car. He wrote, "Khichu comes to see me off but then he wants to accompany. #love#animallovers #shitzu #ebc."

On Sunday, he added a video showing that no matter where in the world you may go, someone will always be around taking videos and selfies. JD captioned the video, "Mountains gives you so much #Happiness #joy #laughter #madness #fun #love #friendly #spirituality." In the video, he and the local woman joyously film one another. They both burst out laughing and he later asks her, "Accha laga yeh?(Did you like it?). She replies in the affirmative and shares the peace sign.

He also shared another video of himself climbing up a rocky trekking path while singing the Kishore Kumar song Chalte Chalte Mere Yeh Geet. Composed by Bappi Lahiri, the song is from the 1976 film Chalte Chalte. JD is dressed in black and grey pants, a red long-sleeved T-shirt, grey jacket and sunglasses. His backpack secured to his body, JD used a walking stick for the uneven terrain. He also covered his head with a black beanie hat with the Superman logo.

One fan wrote, Incredible, proud of you. While another shared, It's not madness , it's a inner child in you.. that's really commendable.. inspiring for todays youth.. over materialistic hona , ego rakhna .. over selfish hona (over being materialistic, having an ego, or being selfish).. is gonna make you pay.. @jd_majethia guruji aap ese hi prerna dete rahe.. apne kaam aur niji jivan ki kriyao se (Teacher, please keep inspiring us like this, with your work and your life).

The renowned producer, who started out as an actor on television, has backed several family shows behind his banner Hats Off Productions including Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Baa Bahoo Aur Baby, Khichdi, Mrs. Tendulkar and Pushpa Impossible. His most recent show is Prime Video's Happy Family: Conditions Apply with Ratna Pathak Shah, Raj Babbar, Atul Kulkarni and Ayesha Jhulka.

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Russias energy exports to India have been growing since 2022. Facing western sanctions on account of its invasion of Ukraine, Russia found India to be a large and credible market alternative for its crude oil and offered to sell them at discounted prices. New Delhi seized the opportunity and within a year, it gradually became one of the largest buyers of Russian oil. While India remains optimistic about its energy imports from Russia, its continued patronage in the near future remains uncertain due to sanctions and prevailing fluctuations in the energy market. At this juncture, Indias experience trading with Iran comes as a learning curve. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin.(PTI)

Like Russia, once upon a time Iran too was a large oil supplier for India. Against the backdrop of western sanctions imposed since the 1979 Iranian revolution, Iran used to import over $10 billion of oil annually to India and was one of Indias largest oil suppliers up until 2019, when India pulled the plug and stopped buying oil from Iran after a US sanctions waiver expired. India which is known for strictly maintaining its strategic autonomy against strong western persuasion was forced to compromise its interests, eventually leading to Irans disappearance from Indias energy basket.

The worry is whether Russia will go down Irans path while trading with India. The answer lies in the comparative trends observed in Indias bilateral oil trade with Iran and Russia trade.

First, discounts feature as the main force behind shaping Indias oil trade with Iran and Russia. Earlier, Iran too had offered to sell crude oil to India at discounted prices, which gradually provided an impetus for the country to increase Iranian oil imports. Indias consumption of Russian oil was also maximised only after Moscow extended discounts. Russias fossil fuel imports to India in 2021 were barely worth $5 billion, but in 2022 after providing price discounts of $30-$35 per barrel, it was selling crude oil worth $34.6 billion almost seven times what it sold the previous year. The conversion rate is staggering and highlights the impact fuel price discounts have on Indias growing energy needs.

Second, sanctions have been a common background feature noticed in Indias trade with Iran and Russia. Bilateral trade with a heavily sanctioned Iran was an uphill task for India even with a temporary relaxation on sanctions provided by the Iran nuclear deal in 2015, and encountered significant problems in the settlement of payments and shipping logistics the same way as it faces with Russia today. Though India tried its best to negotiate with Washington on extending the sanctions waiver for continuing to buy Iranian oil, the then United States (US) administration under Donald Trump was aggressive in its stance against Iran and was not open to providing further concessions to India any longer. The US even went to the extent of sanctioning an Indian petrochemical company for trading with Iran post the expiry of the sanctions waiver.

Third, the absence of a robust non-western financial system for settling payments is another common hurdle observed by India in Iran as well as Russia. In the backdrop of financial restrictions imposed on Iran and Russia on the usage of the US dollar and suspension from the SWIFT international bank messaging network, payments to and from Russia became difficult, and hence India decided to experiment with local currency payment settlement systems such as the rupee-rouble and rupee-rial exchange via special vostro accounts in corresponding banks. However, operational banking issues, such as a lack of transparency regarding repatriation, insufficient currency reserves, additional handling expenses, and limited opportunities for surplus investment, resulted in the system's collapse in Iran and hinder its successful implementation in Russias case as well.

Without a doubt, one can plausibly say that western actions against Russia are right from its playbook time-tested in Iran. Indias topsy-turvy experience trading with Iran is a reality check for Russia. Though Indias multidimensional strategic relationship with Russia is stronger and deeper than its relations with Iran, its actions are not entirely fool-proof against western overtures as noticed before. India may be effective enough to strike a bargain with the Western world today and buy cheap Russian oil, but that does not guarantee the West against taking action in the future, especially in the era of punitive tools such as the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).

At the same time, Indias oil import from Russia cannot be overstated to be a longstanding one, instead can only be viewed as a price-sensitive market choice. From a realist view, Indias decision to buy crude oil from Iran and Russia was not because of valuing its relationship to help a sanction-hit country, but rather for the discounts they offered. Price is key for India to continue buying Russian oil and will be influenced by a multitude of factors other than discounts such as the G7 price cap, rising Chinese demand for Russian oil, Russian crude oil production cuts, and pricing arrangements such as free-on-board basis shipping and other costs such as insurance borne by the buyer from the origin, or delivered ex-ship basis all costs till delivery at specified location borne by the seller.

That being said, if India wishes to capitalise and continue importing Russian oil, its first and foremost priority should be to insulate itself from sanction-induced risks. From Irans instance, India should understand that sanctions are not going to vanish anytime soon, and without an exhaustive payment system that bypasses West-controlled financial infrastructure such as the SWIFT bank messaging network, Indian banks will always remain in the shadows of fear and uncertainty while transacting with Russia. This is where India and Russia need to think out of the box and make the rupee-rouble system deliver. The resilience of such a payment system will determine the future of India-Russia trade.

This article is authored by KA Dhananjay, foreign policy researcher and incoming Master's student in diplomacy and global governance, Brussels School of Governance.
Farmers break barricades at Jantar Mantar near wrestlers' protest venue. WATCH The farmers from the Bharatiya Kisan Union on Monday clashed with the cops at Jantar Mantar where the wrestlers have been protesting since April 23 against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Read more Bharatiya Kisan Union members at Jantar Mantar on Monday. (Vipin Kumar/HT Photo)

'What scares those': BJP's Khushbu after Kerala Story pulled down in Tamil Nadu

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The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine the plea of a 72-year-old woman, on whom a male co-passenger urinated on board an Air India flight in November last year, seeking a direction to the Centre, aviation regulator DGCA and airlines to frame an SOP to deal with such incidents. Supreme Court of India. (ANI)

A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala took note of the plea of the woman and issued notices to the Centre, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and all airlines, including Air India.

The top court also sought the assistance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was present in the case, in formulating the standard operating procedure (SOP) and fixed the plea for hearing after the summer vacation in July.

The woman had filed a PIL in March saying she was constrained to approach the top court because Air India and the DGCA failed to treat her with care and responsibility after the incident.

On January 31, a Delhi court had granted bail to Shankar Mishra, accused of urinating on the woman co-passenger on the Air India flight from New York to Delhi.

The trial court had granted the relief to Mishra on a personal bond of 1 lakh and a surety of the like amount.

It had also imposed various conditions on him, including that he will not tamper with evidence, influence any witnesses or contact them in any manner.

Mishra was also asked not to leave the country without the court's prior permission and to join the investigation and trial as and when called by the investigating officer or the court concerned.

Mishra was arrested from Bengaluru on January 6 and sent to judicial custody by a court here on January 7.

He allegedly urinated on the woman in an intoxicated condition in the business class of the Air India flight on November 26 last year.
Countering Chinese growing footprint in the Middle-East. National Security Advisors of US, India, UAE met with Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on Sunday to cement engagement of India with the region and the US. US NSA Jake Sullivan with Indian NSA Ajit Doval(HT File)

Watch: NSA Ajit Doval meets Saudi Prince to 'rein in' Chinese footprints in region | Key Details

The most significant meeting, after China brokered peace between Saudi Arabia and Iran on March 10, took place in Saudi Arabia with an objective of further expanding shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle east region interconnected with India and the World.

The meeting was attended by US NSA Jake Sullivan, Indian NSA Ajit Doval, UAE NSA Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman playing the gracious host.

While New Delhi is tight-lipped about the meeting, US NSA Sullivan had a bilateral meeting with NSA Doval to review decisions taken in their last meeting on February 1 and meet again on the margins of the QUAD summit in Sydney in Australia on May 24. US NSA had bilateral meetings with both his Saudi and UAE counterparts in an effort to repair the strained American relations with the Sunni world.

The India-US engagement has stepped up in the run up to the QUAD summit with Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra scheduled to visit Washington for the first ever dialogue on strategic trade on May 11-12 with his US counterparts. This dialogue will help India get high end technology from US companies for Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of PM Narendra Modi.

According to the US readout of the crucial Saudi Arabia meeting, Crown Prince Salman and NSA Sullivan reviewed the progress made to consolidate the truce in Yemen. While Sullivan and Doval thanked the Crown Prince for evacuation of their nationals from war hit Sudan, the four delegations agreed to maintain regular consultations and follow-up of matters discussed and decisions taken in the meeting.

Before visiting Saudi Arabia, NSA Doval held bilateral talks in Iran with his counterpart.

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The Supreme Court sought Bihar government's response on a plea challenging premature release of ex-Lok Sabha MP Anand Mohan. The plea was filed by the wife of slain IAS officer G Krishnaiah. Bihar chief minister attends engagement ceremony of Anand Mohans son.(File Photo)

The top court also issued notice to Anand Mohan to be served through the Superintendent of Police, Saharsa district and agreed to hear the matter next week.



"Life imprisonment, when awarded as a substitute for death penalty, has to be carried out strictly as directed by the court and would be beyond application of remission," Uma Krishnaiah said in her petition before the Supreme Court.



Anand Mohan was released from the Saharsa jail after the Nitish Kumar government amended prison rules as per which the convicts having served 14 or 20 years in jail could be released. The Bihar home department had notified the change in rule 481 (1-a) of the Bihar Prison Manuel, 2012, which deleted the the phrase or murder of a Government servant on duty.



Mohan was convicted in the killing of then Gopalganj district magistrate G Krishnaiah on December 5, 1994 in Muzaffarpur. As per the probe, the don-turned-politician had instigated a mob that dragged the IAS officer out of his car and lynched him.

Mohan was sentenced to death by a trial court in 2007, but the sentence was commuted to life imprisonment by the Patna high court. He had challenged the verdict in the Supreme Court, but stayed in the jail after the top court rejected his plea.

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Olympic medalist Bajrang Punia, one of the three central figures in the ongoing wrestlers' protest against national wrestling federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over alleged sexual harassment of female grapplers, found himself in the middle of a controversy after he put up a post on Instagram expressing support for the right-wing group Bajrang Dal. Indian wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Bajrang Punia, and Sakshi Malik address a news conference as they take part in a sit-in protest demanding arrest of Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. (Reuters)

I am Bajrangi. I support Bajrang Dal. Jai Shri Ram, the post read. The post, which featured an illustration of Lord Hanuman (Bajrang Bali/Bajrangi), also had a caption appealing the user to keep the Lord Hanuman illustration as their WhatsApp status and display picture.

Bajrang Punia's Instagram post which he deleted after outrage.

Punia, however, deleted the post after a section of social media users, primarily those who oppose the umbrella Sangh Parivar, of which Bajrang Dal is a part, expressed outrage over his support for a group considered by many as a militant organisation.

On the other hand, supporters of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and those of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), lambasted the grappler for succumbing to pressure and apologising for his beliefs. The RSS is the ideological mentor of the BJP.

What is the Bajrang Dal controversy?

Founded in 1984, Bajrang Dal is the youth wing of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), a member of the Sangh Parivar. In recent years, it has attained notoriety mostly due to activities such as moral policing, including in Karnataka, which will elect its new government on May 10. Accordingly, the Congress, which is aiming to unseat the BJP, announced in its manifesto it will ban groups such as Bajrang Dal and Popular Front of India (PFI), the Islamist organisation proscribed by the BJP-led Union government in September last year.

The announcement led to outrage in the right-wing ecosystem, with Bajrang Dal staging protests against the Congress across the country. Sensing an opportunity to corner the grand old party in the southern state, the BJP, too, came out all guns blazing, equating Bajrang Dal with Lord Hanuman.

Attempting damage control, the Congress said there was no proposal to ban the group, as only the central government has the authority to ban such organisations. DK Shivakumar, its Karnataka unit chief, vowed that the party will build Lord Hanuman temples in the state, if elected to power.

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August 15, 2022 was supposed to change 21-year-old Jitendra Kumar Kunjams life. As he waited in front of a computer screen in Sukma, he thought of the promise the day held  he could become a policeman, join a specialised force that fights insurgency in Bastar; finally land a job that offers a steady income for life. PREMIUM People line up during a Bastar Fighters recruitment camp. (HT Photo)

When the list of those that had qualified for the first batch for the Bastar Fighters popped up on the computer screen, however, Kunjams name was not in it. And this omission took a heavier toll than he imagined at the time -- instead of giving him a life without financial stress, it became the day Kunjam was cut off from his home, unable to return to his village Jagargunda, deep in the forest, for fear of Maoist retribution.

In 2020, the Chhattisgarh government decided to raise a special police unit, Bastar Fighters, to combat Left-wing extremism (LWE) in the region. Recruits for this force, the government said, would be drawn from the seven districts in Bastar division -- Bastar, Kanker, Kondagaon, Sukma, Narayanpur, Bijapur and Dantewada. The home department announced a total of 2,100 posts, 300 apiece from each district.

In an area that has been torn by State vs Maoist violence for over four decades, jobs are scarce, and 53,336 applications came in. A physical test was the first step, and 5,405 people (4,689 male, 707 female and 9 third gender candidates) made it to a written examination held on July 17,2022. Of the 5,322 who appeared for the exam, 3,969 candidates made it for interviews held between August 1 and August 10, 2022.

On August 15, 2022, the results were announced, and 2,057 candidates had made it across the seven districts. For most of the 51,000-odd who failed, there was disappointment. But applicants from close to a 100 villages, where the Maoist writ runs deep, were marked out as people who had dared to apply for a police post -- a decision punishable by death, and one that translated into a life in exile.

A CAGE WITHIN A CONFLICT

Kunjam had only known a life in a cage -- one that he always wanted to escape. He was born and brought up in Jagargunda, a village which has particular significance in the conflict in Sukma as the crown jewel in a district at the epicentre of conflict. Jagargunda was once a trading station, at the tri-junction of Dantewada, Bijapur and Sukma, with its village haat a famous tamarind market. In the late 2000s, during the height of the Salwa Judum (Between 2005, when it began, and 2011 when it was banned by the Supreme Court, the state government appointed and armed tribal youth to battle Maoists, a move that exacerbated the conflict and caused widespread displacement, with allegations of human rights abuse), villagers escaping the violence took refuge in Jagargunda, living in makeshift camps that later become permanent fixtures. To protect them from the Maoists, the village was fenced with a gate and barbed wire. To this day, the gate opens at 6am and shuts when the sun sets, with police manning watchtowers in every corner.

In his small room at the Sukma district headquarters, 60km away from Jagargunda, Kunjam shares a room with three other men. All of them applied for the Bastar Fighters and failed to make the cut. I now cannot go him because I know if I get caught, I will be punished by the Maoists, Kunjam said.

For close to a year, Kunjam has found work as a sample collector at a pathology laboratory in Sukma town, earning 2,500 a month. He misses his parents. But his refusal to go home is the only way he can protect them. In all this time, I only went to the village once, when friends in the police told me a Road Opening Party was going to the village. I went with them, but returned in a few hours, Kunjam said.

Adamma Markam, a member of the Suka zila panchayat, said that there were 17 candidates from Jagargunda who have been doing menial work for the past year. They are working in towns like Dornapal, Sukma and Konta. Some work in a photostat shop, others in petrol pumps, and some as daily-wage labourers. The government must come forward to protect them and give them some work. This problem exists in at least a 100 villages where the Maoists still have great influence. It was an entirely predictable problem, and something the government must factor in next time, Markam said.

In one of these villages that HT visited, 60km from Sukma, a father did not allow us to meet his son who did not make the Bastar Fighters cut. No one here knows that he applied for the Bastar Fighters, and I dont let him out of the house. But people are now finding out, and I cannot take chances. I will send him away to work at a petrol pump in Jagdalpur soon, the man said.

THE SOLUTION IS NOW THE PROBLEM

Senior police officers said that the Bastar Fighters was conceived for two fundamental reasons. The first was tactical: young people drawn from the villages have an intrinsic understanding of the geography and demography of Bastar, a factor that is often crucial to success or failure in an operational area that is densely forested, and has scant communication networks. The second was strategic: the recruitment would bring employment for residents of interior villages, setting up role models for future generations, bringing the youth closer to the state government and away from the influence of the Maoists.

But senior police and intelligence officers admit that the policy failed to conceive a safety valve for those that did not make the cut, and were now in danger.

Everything is more complicated in Bastar, and this should have been thought of. It is not as if it is a surprise. When the Bastar Fighters was announced, the Maoists put out pamphlets warning those who applied of consequences. After the results were announced, some candidates have been threatened by name by Maoist area committees. Some applicants have been attacked when they dared to go home, even when there was a death in the family. Relatives have been threatened or excommunicated, and property confiscated. It is a real problem, one intelligence officer said, asking not to be named.

A second police officer, based in Bastar, put the number of candidates from villages they cannot return to at between 500 and 700. It is difficult to track all of them down because they are keeping their identities hidden, doing menial jobs. But we know that it is around these many that have not returned home across the seven districts. Candidates are vulnerable if they make the cut or not, but at least those that find work have the security of becoming police officials that comes with its own security. The Maoists are ruthless, and kill people for joining the police, the officer said.

Over the past five years, state government data shows that 337 Maoists, 2,018 security personnel, and 356 civilians have been killed in Chhattisgarh.

P Sundar Raj, inspector general of police (Bastar), said the police was pleasantly surprised by the number of applicants they received for the 2,100 posts advertised. But since the selection came through a merit list, it is natural that more than 51,000 applicants didnt make it to the final selection, and are waiting for the next opportunity. It is true that some of them have security concerns and we will counsel them and provide the needful assistance, so they can take care of them and their families, he said.

The first police officer quoted above said that the state government must find an urgent solution. First, recruitments should be done across the police and other civil departments en masse. This will help not only with employment but also with the narrative that the government is only interested in arming locals against Maoists, who are also locals. Second, those left out must be screened carefully, and all those from core areas have to be roped in to special skill training programmes. They have risked their lives to be police personnel, and it is our job to protect them. A special branch should be created in each collectorate to listen to the grievances of these candidates, the officer said.

A clear and present danger is the risk of these candidates being coerced into the Maoist fold.

They are worried about their own safety and that of their families. It is a constant Maoist tactic to use this vulnerability and use it to their advantage. The government must act quickly to prevent this from happening, the first officer added.

Tribal leader Soni Sori says that, over the past few months, she has seen a stream of failed applicants reach out to her for help. There is a sense of abandonment, and those that failed to make the cut are now desperately looking for work. But it is a difficult situation and I dont know what to do. I will take this issue to senior officials in Raipur, Sori said.

Back in his one-room flat in Sukma, Kunjam is a caught between two equally frightening scenarios. The best case is that I apply again and get the job. Then I can move my family to where I am posted. But if I dont get it, I could anger the Maoists even more, and my family will be under a greater threat. If I dont apply at all, I will only find menial work, because people dont want to employ someone the Maoists have on their hit list, Kunjam said.

For now, this is my life.
PATNA: Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, who is scheduled to fly to Bhubaneswar to meet his counterpart, Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday, will also travel to Maharashtra later this week to meet opposition leaders. Nitish Kumars May 11 visit to Maharashtra is a follow-up to his phone conversation on May 6 with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, people familiar with the matter said. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar during his visit to Kolkata to meet West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee as part of his outreach to opposition leaders on April 24) (PTI File)

A leader of Bihars Janata Dal-United (JD-U) said Nitish Kumar was travelling to Odisha on May 9 and Mumbai on May 11 to meet opposition leaders. On Monday, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, according to news agency PTI, confirmed Kumars plans to travel to Mumbai for meetings.

I have received a message that Nitish Kumar will visit Mumbai on May 11. We will meet, though I do not have all the details with me, Pawar, who on Friday revoked his decision to quit as NCP chief, told reporters in Solapur before heading to Karnatakas Nipani area to campaign for his party candidate in the assembly elections on May 10.

Our outlook is that an alternative (to the BJP government) is needed in the country. Those who wish to contribute to it, be it Nitish or Mamata (West Bengal CM and Trinamool Congress leader), in my view we all need to work together for the same, the NCP chief said.

Last week, Bihar legislative council chairman Devesh Chandra Thakur was in Mumbai and held a meeting with Uddhav Thackeray along with MLC Kapil Patil.

Nitish Kumar, who has indicated his interest in hosting a meeting of opposition leaders after the Karnataka elections, is scheduled to leave for Bhubaneshwar on Tuesday to meet his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik. The meeting between the two leaders is scheduled at 12 noon and is likely to last 30 minutes. The two leaders will discuss a wide range of political issues as well as the road ahead to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, said a JD (U) leader familiar with the development.

The meeting assumes significance as the BJD has for years been equidistant from the BJP and the Congress. It has neither indicated a tilt towards the NDA nor has it spoken anything on the formation of a non-BJP alliance so far, said a JD (U) leader.

Kumar met prominent opposition leaders in Delhi in April, including those from the Congress and Left parties, and announced his plan to travel to different states in an effort to unite opposition parties. Last month, he travelled to Kolkata to meet West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and to Lucknow to meet Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Akhilesh Yadav.

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Chennai: Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) Sylendra Babu said on Monday that he has ordered an inquiry into the Tihar jail case where 33-year-old gangster Sunil Baliyan aka Tillu Tajpuriya was murdered in his prison cell. Tamil Nadu DGP Sylendra Babu said that he has deputed additional director general of police, HM Jayaram, to conduct an inquiry into the Tihar jail case where 33-year-old gangster Sunil Baliyan aka Tillu Tajpuriya was murdered in his prison cell. (HT Archives)

This comes after the Director General of Delhi Prisons Sanjay Beniwal wrote to the Tamil Nadu police to take action since Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP) personnel were on duty during the murder on May 2.

The Tamil Nadu DGP told HT that he has deputed additional director general of police, HM Jayaram, to conduct an inquiry. Based on ADG Jayarams enquiry report further action will be taken, Babu said.

Tajpuriya, an accused in the Rohini court shootout, was stabbed to death on May 2 morning. The Delhi high court on Monday ordered the jail superintendent to appear before the bench on the next date of hearing on May 25.

Justice Jasmeet Singh, who was hearing a petition filed by Tillu Tajpuriyas father and brother to seek a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the gangsters death, also ordered the director general of prisons to file a report within a week, listing the jail officers who were responsible for the lapses that led to the murder in the high-security prison.

Since the crime was captured on CCTV installed inside, the judge asked the authorities to explain how the prisoners got hold of knives used to kill Tajpuriya and why security personnel did not intervene.

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Chinese surveillance vessel Xiang Yang Hong 10 and at least eight maritime militia ships, a front for the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), sailed towards the area where the inaugural Asean-India naval drill ended on Monday, officials familiar with the matter said. The opening ceremony of the Asean-India maritime exercise was held at Changi Naval Base in Singapore on May 2. (Courtesy: Indian Navy)

The Chinese vessels then moved towards the exclusive economic zone of Vietnam, and experts said it was not clear whether the purpose was to keep an eye on the naval exercise or to make a foray into Vietnams EEZ, where China is engaged in a maritime dispute.

The presence of the Chinese vessels was first reported on social media by Ray Powell, a former US Air Force officer who tracks developments in South China Sea for the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University.

Powell said five Chinese maritime militia ships moved from the Spratly Islands to the area of the India-Asean drill on Sunday evening. Another three Chinese maritime militia ships left Subi Reef and headed in the direction of the exercise area on Monday.

The opening ceremony of the Asean-India Maritime Exercise (AIME-23) was held at the Changi Naval Base in Singapore on May 2, with the drills aimed at promoting maritime cooperation and enhancing trust, friendship and confidence among Asean and Indian Navies.

The regional bloc consists of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The inaugural edition of AIME was co-hosted by the Republic of Singapore Navy and Indian Navy. The harbour phase of the exercise was held at the Changi Naval Base from May 2 to May 4, and the sea phase in the South China Sea from May 7 to May 8.

The drill involved nine ships, six aircraft, and more than 1,800 personnel from the Asean states and India.

People familiar with the matter said the Chinese vessels were in the proximity of the area where the naval drill concluded on Monday. The people said the Indian warships involved in the exercise had gone dark by switching off their automatic identification system (AIS). This was also done by warships from some other Asean states.

The maiden India-Asean drill culminated successfully in South China Sea on Monday and was not affected by the presence of Chinese vessels in the area, an official aware of the matter said, asking not to be named.

The people said it is not uncommon for countries to keep a watch on military drills and other activities in their areas of interest.

The Chinese side has sought to establish a strong presence in South China Sea, where it is engaged in maritime disputes with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

The deployment of maritime militia is part of Chinas gray zone operations or the use of non-traditional forces to pursue security objectives. According to the Army University Press, the US Armys multimedia organisation, Chinas maritime militia has helped the country rewrite the rules of freedom of navigation, buttress its maritime claims, secure vital resources, and extend its economic reach across the globe.

The maritime militia consists of Chinese citizens trained by the navy and Coast Guard to perform tasks such as border patrol, surveillance and reconnaissance, maritime transportation and auxiliary tasks in support of naval operations in wartime. Since 2005, China has preferred to employ the PLAN in background roles while relying on maritime law enforcement agencies and the maritime militia as its frontline responses to maritime disputes and contingencies, according to Army University Press.

As part of negotiations with Asean states on a proposed Code of Conduct for the South China Sea, Chine proposed clauses in 2018 that would give it a veto over Southeast Asian countries conducting exercises with foreign militaries in these waters.

An official from an Asean state, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the exercise as an important development as it allows navies of Asean states and India to strengthen collaboration, enhance understanding, and build confidence to address common maritime security challenges.

During the shore phase, personnel participated in exchanges focused onboard, search and seizure, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. During the sea phase, the navies conduct drills focused on helicopter cross-deck landings, maritime security, communication, and manoeuvring.

As part of the maritime security exercise, the participating ships tracked the movement of simulated vessels of interest, cued by alerts from the Asean International Liaison Officers attached to Singapores Information Fusion Centre.

Indigenous warships INS Delhi and INS Satpura along with a P8I maritime patrol aircraft participated in the drill.

India is keeping tabs on Chinas moves in the South China Sea and taking steps to ensure that the Chinese navy doesnt muscle its way into the Indian Ocean where combat-ready Indian warships are carrying out round-the-clock surveillance for any unusual activity.

India has consistently called for a free, open and inclusive order in the Indo-Pacific, pivoting on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, while stressing on peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and under the framework of international laws.

Maritime affairs expert, Commodore (retired) Srikant Kesnur said given that this was the first India-Asean maritime exercise, it had a certain amount of symbolic significance and the drill was bound to trigger curiosity of other nations. Monitoring of activities and exercises by other nations in international waters is a common occurrence. If the Chinese ships, whether maritime militia or others, did anything in relation to this exercise, the important question is whether they offended the sensitivities of the Asean nations, many of whom have a testy relationship with China over the South China Sea issue, Kesnur said.

There was no immediate comment on the development from the Indian government.

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As the campaigning for the Karnataka assembly elections nears an end, the Congress on Monday released a video of a hearty chitchat between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, with the two contenders for the CM projecting a united front. Congress on Monday released a video of a hearty chitchat between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, (PTI)

A video released Monday, the second in two days, shows the two leaders presenting a united front in the polls and exchanging notes on the Congress campaign.

In the second part, Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah discussed job creation in tier-two cities in Karnataka so that people from those do not have to shift to Bengaluru. Once we come to power, we will have to start Indira canteens again, Siddaramaiah said, according to the video.

BJP leaders had lunch at Indira canteen. We have seen those photos, Shivakumar added.

I was taking a look at a recent survey. BJP wont win more than 62 seats. JDS might get around 22 or 23. There could be three independent candidates, Shivakumar said. Every morning, the PM is here. I am getting calls regarding BJPs threat every day. They are forcing them to release fabricated survey reports...these developers, contractors who work during the election are being threatened so much that even my business partner is not attending my calls, DKS told Siddaramaiah.

People have faith in us because they have seen us fulfil almost all our promises... we both signed the guarantee card, Siddaramaih said.

BL Santhosh made a statement that he does not need Lingayat votes. He is a very important man in the BJP, Siddaramaiah said as Shivakumar burst into laughter, the video showed.

See how they have ignored Bommai this time. They dumped Bommai in the dustbin now, Shivakumar said.

Think of their standard that they did not give a ticket to Shettar, Siddaramaiah said.

Even though the video presented a joint front, while addressing a rally in his home constituency, Shivakumar made a pitch for the post of chief minister. A son of Kanakapura has a chance to become the chief minister. He should get a chance, he told the crowd.

The central leadership of the party made their presence felt on Monday. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi held a roadshow in Bengalurus Vijayanagar on the last day of campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly elections scheduled for May 10.

Vadra said that the grand old party would be elected to power as the people of the state want an end to corruption.

We are very confident and hopeful. I am not a predictor of numbers; I can only see the response that we have gotten from the public. The people of Karnataka want an end to corruption, Priyanka Gandhi said while talking to the media.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday interacted with college students and working women in Bengaluru. The former party chief stopped for a cup of coffee at a Cafe Coffee Day outlet on Cunningham Road.

At a close-by Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus stop, he spoke to college students and working women.

He then hopped on to a BMTC bus and interacted with women passengers to understand their vision for Karnataka, party leaders said.

They candidly discussed topics including the rising price of essentials, the Gruhalakshmi scheme ( 2,000 per month for woman head of household) and the Congress guarantee of free travel for women in BMTC and KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses, they said.

Meanwhile, Congress party leader and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi also said the 24-hour window provided by the election for responding to the notice was insufficient with the Karnataka assembly poll campaign drawing to a close.

The Congress has accused the Election Commission of bias over its notice of the partys corruption rate card advertisements targeting the BJP government in Karnataka and said its leaders are held to a standard that seems reserved only for the Opposition.

The EC had on Saturday issued a notice to the Karnataka Congress over its corruption rate card advertisements published in newspapers in the run-up to the May 10 state polls and sought empirical evidence to prove its allegations by Sunday evening.

...the actions of the Commission are prima facie violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which provide a fundamental guarantee against arbitrariness in administrative action as well as against bias, official acts of mala fide, violations of natural justice and which provide the most vital guarantee of equality, the Congress said.

(With PTI inputs)
Cyclone Mocha forming over the Bay of Bengal may intensify into a very severe storm by Friday when wind speeds can reach 130 kmph, the India Meteorological Department warned on Monday, saying that details of its landfall could be available by Tuesday. The Met department also asked authorities to regulate tourism, offshore activities and shipping near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands between May 8 and 12. (PTI)

Also read: Frequency of intense heatwaves to rise further: Experts

A low pressure area formed over south-east Bay of Bengal and adjoining South Andaman Sea on Monday, the weather bureau said. It is likely to intensify into a depression on May 9 and into Cyclone Mocha on May 10. The storm is expected to move towards the Bangladesh and Myanmar coasts around May 12.

Small seafaring vessels and fishers were warned not to venture out from Tuesday. The Met department also asked authorities to regulate tourism, offshore activities and shipping near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands between May 8 and 12.

An atmospheric trough was running from south-west Bay of Bengal off north Tamil Nadu coast to cyclonic circulation associated with the low-pressure area over south-east Bay of Bengal and adjoining south Andaman Sea, the weather office said in its bulletin. A western disturbance as a cyclonic circulation is also lying over north Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir in middle tropospheric levels, it said.

The time of landfall (and) expected intensity as it moves towards the coast will be available when the low pressure area intensifies into a depression, said M Mohapatra, director general of the Met office. We have issued a subjective statement for now, but the specifics will be made available soon as the models provide a clearer picture within a five-day forecast period.

Both ocean and atmospheric conditions over the Bay of Bengal are favourable for cyclone development. The ocean surface temperatures are anomalously warm by 1-2 degrees Celsius and the subsurface heat is also sufficient to provide a constant supply of heat and moisture for cyclone formation and intensification, said Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist at Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune.

We have forecast for a very severe cyclone. We should keep a watch and be prepared for potential cyclone intensification, Koll said.

Rainfall is expected to increase over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Squally weather with wind speeds reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is likely over south-east Bay of Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and adjoining Andaman Sea on Tuesday. Stormy condition are likely to continue at least till May 11.

Also read: Cyclone Mocha: No heatwave in India for coming few days, heavy rainfall in Andaman

Seas are likely to be very rough in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea from May 10 till the end of the week. Waves could reach a height of as much as six to 14 metres, the Met office said.

The heat potential that provides energy to a cyclone is optimum over South Andaman Sea and adjoining south-east and central Bay of Bengal. The temperature on the sea surface is around 30 to 32 degrees over the Bay of Bengal, which is conducive for a cyclonic formation, the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre said.
The Election Commission of India on Monday issued a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to clarify and rectify the party's social media post on Karnataka's sovereignty remark attributed to its senior leader Sonia Gandhi, following a complaint by the Bharatiya Janata Party. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi addresses a public meeting ahead of Karnataka assembly polls in Hubballi on Saturday. (PTI)

The BJP on Monday had moved the Election Commission seeking action against Sonia Gandhi, to whom the opposition party had attributed the remark, and her party's derecognition. The party also demanded an FIR against her.

A BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll panel in Delhi over the issue.

The Election Commission of India today issued a letter to INC President to provide clarification and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the Official INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson CPP, the ECI said in a statement.

The panel said in the complaint, the BJP alleged, "Karnataka, is a very important member state in the union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous & pernicious consequences.

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh, who was part of the delegation besides BJP MP Anil Baluni and leader Om Pathak, cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

The BJP also submitted a copy of the Congress tweet quoting Gandhi, the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson, on the issue.

The opposition party had tweeted, "CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: 'The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity'."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue in his public meetings on Sunday to launch a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing the party of openly advocating for "separating" Karnataka from India. Modi alleged that the disease of the "tukde-tukde gang" (anti-national elements) has reached the Congress' top level.

Hitting back, Congress general secretary in charge of Karnataka Randeep Surjewala claimed that the desperation of the prime minister and BJP is glaring as "they seek to clutch at straws for want of a narrative in Karnataka".

"We reject the fakery and falsehood being perpetuated by the prime minister as he refuses to answer a single question on why BJP is denigrating the 'swabhimaan' (pride) of Karnataka," he said.

Citing the Congress tweets, the BJP in its memorandum to the poll watchdog alleged that such a comment is well-considered "evil design" to provoke the staunch nationalists, peace loving, progressive and globally recognised people of Karnataka.

The intent apparently is to be disturb the equanimity, harmony and peace to garner votes and support some select communities or groups, whose sole purpose and intent is to disrupt the very being of the Indian state, it claimed.

"The general and emerging impressions of Indian National Congress, amongst common people, is one of a party that always sides with forces that are inimical and opposed to the Indian state," it said.

Noting that a "sovereign" by definition is an independent nation, the complaint said, "When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. India is a sovereign country and the state of Karnataka is a proud part in it. Till today no one raised any question about the integrity of Kannadigas with the sovereignty of the nation."

Describing the Congress' tweet quoting Gandhi as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Gandhi had violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement".

Union Minister Anurag Thakur said Sonia Gandhi's reference to "Karnataka's sovereignty" has revealed the party's "deep conspiracy to disintegrate India".

The BJP also demanded that the Congress should apologise for its advertisement listing "corruption rates" in the state, between 2019 and 2023, while attacking the BJP government.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.

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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized immovable properties worth 41.64 crore belonging to Zavareh Soli Poonawalla, brother of Serum Institute of India (SII) chairman and managing director Cyrus Poonawalla, and his family members in connection with a foreign exchange violation probe linked to the Panama Papers, the agency said on Monday. A statement issued by the ED said it has seized three immovable properties located at Ceejay house, Worli, Mumbai, worth  41.64 crore under the provisions of FEMA in its probe against Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members. (HT)

The agency alleged that Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members were accused of misuse of the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), 1999.

To be sure, the FEMA action against Zavareh Poonawalla has nothing to do with SII or Cyrus Poonawalla.

A statement issued by the ED said it has seized three immovable properties located at Ceejay house, Worli, Mumbai, worth 41.64 crore under the provisions of FEMA in its probe against Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members.

...investigation revealed Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members had remitted foreign exchange abroad by mis-utilizing the provisions of LRS scheme.

The agency added Zavareh Poonawalla and family members used the maximum permissible limit and from the year 2011-12; adding that they remitted money abroad via mis-declarations under the pretext of family maintenance and self-maintenance etc, however none of their family members was residing abroad or holding NRI (non-resident Indian) status.

The Panama Papers expose pertains to massive leak of financial files -- over 11 million documents -- released in April 2016, from the database of Mossack Fonseca, which was released to German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung (SZ). The data revealed how politicians, celebrities, businessmen across the world including several big Indian names used the law firm for laundering money, dodging transactions and evading taxes.

HT reached out to Poonawalla Group and SII for comments but there was no response till the time of going to press.

The ED said the entire funds remitted by Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members under LRS (scheme) were invested into British Virgin Islands based Stallast Limited.

The funds remitted by Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members were utilized by Stallast Limited to purchase four properties in the UK. These properties include four apartments at Paddington, London, the ED statement added.

The agency found multiple FEMA contraventions in the transactions.

Apart from mis-declarations in the remittances, Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members wrongly claimed these investments as foreign portfolio investments, but in reality, the foreign entity was completely controlled by them and thus, they did ODI (overseas direct investment) in a foreign WoS (wholly owned subsidy) without due permission of the Reserve Bank of India, the statement said.

It further said the foreign assets were not declared to the RBI. They continued to hold the above foreign assets till date and are in continuous enjoyment of the same, the ED said.

The properties abroad were acquired through the funds remitted under LRS to avoid reporting requirements to RBI and thus, Zavareh Poonawalla has mis-utilized the Liberalized Remittance Scheme. Therefore, the equivalent value of properties held by them in India have been seized under the provisions of Section 37A of FEMA. ED has seized Office space at Ceejay House, Worli, Mumbai, by passing an order under FEMA 1999 on May 5, 2023, the agency statement added.
Around 60 people died, another 231 were injured, and 1,700 houses were gutted in the ethnic violence that convulsed Manipur last week, chief minister N Biren Singh said on Monday, announcing a high-level inquiry to fix accountability for the clashes that swept the state. Health workers with people from violence-hit areas, in Cachar. (PTI)

Also read: Thousands rescued as Manipur remains tense

Singhs statements marked his first public reaction since violence broke out in the state last Wednesday and laid bare the scale of the violence when he confirmed that 35,655 people were evacuated from their homes to safer locations.

As per the available records we have now, around 60 people have died, all of whom were innocent. 231 people have been injured that include both serious and minor injuries, and around 1,700 houses were burnt down. This is a very unfortunate incident, Singh said, in the first confirmation of casualties by the state government.

The full extent of the violence  which saw thousands flee their homes into jungles, relief camps and even across state borders to escape mobs that torched houses, shops and religious places, and thrashed people, including a sitting lawmaker  is yet to be fully documented.

A high-level inquiry will be conducted to fix responsibility on persons or groups behind the violence and government servants who failed to discharge their responsibilities. I appeal to all not to spread or believe unfounded and baseless rumours, he added.

As violence abated and thousands of security personnel swarmed narrow hill lanes to restore order, people cautiously stepped out of their homes to stock up on scarce essential supplies whose prices have spiralled in a state where supplies and fuel have to be brought in from other states. In the capital Imphal, curfew was relaxed for the second consecutive day between 5am and 8am, allowing people to walk to markets and petrol pumps.

While grocery and vegetable stores opened, several residents said they were struggling with skyrocketing prices and scarcity. Petrol is scarce, and there are several black-marketeers that are taking advantage of the situation. I had to pay 250 rupees for a litre of petrol, one Imphal-based autorikshaw driver said, requesting anonymity.

Clashes first broke out on Wednesday in Churachandpur town after tribal Kuki groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the majority Meitei community. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods.Internet services continue to remain suspended.

Singh said that he considered the incident on May 3 most unfortunate and added that the Manipur government initiated many steps to bring back stranded people to their residence, including setting up a three-member ministerial sub-committee to oversee the process.

Transportation of persons who have been stranded in various districts like Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Imphal West, Imphal East etc to return to their respective homes has started. All those people stranded at different locations in Manipur are being provided best possible care and support in safe locations and shelter camps. Union home minister Amit Shah has been monitoring the situation from the day of the incident till today and has sent many companies of central forces, Singh said.

A veil of uneasy truce continued to hang over the state. Other than the three hours in the morning, the streets were deserted except for personnel of the Indian Army, Assam Rifles and paramilitary forces, pressed into service to restore normalcy from May 4.

The crisis began on April 19, when the Manipur high court asked the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government to submit recommendations to the Union government to consider inclusion of Meiteis in the ST list. Meiteis comprise around 53% of the states population, are largely Hindus and live in the Imphal valley region. The move sparked concerns among the tribal populations, which live in the hill districts and constitute about 40% of the states population. Manipur has 31% reservation for STs in jobs and education.

On May 3, thousands of tribal people took out a solidarity march in the states 10 hill districts. In Churachandpur, miscreants set ablaze a portion of the Anglo-Kuki War Memorial, sparking clashes. Retaliatory attacks quickly spread to various parts of the state. Over the next two days, visuals showed violent protests, with vehicles, shops and homes burnt and damaged, and both sides claiming targeted attacks.

On Monday, multiple state governments continued the process of identifying and evacuating their residents from Manipur. A special flight carrying students from Maharashtra reached Mumbai on Monday evening, with chief minister Eknath Shinde speaking to the students before they boarded.

Also read: No grudges: Meiteis, Kukis fleeing clashes in Manipur share camp

In Bihar, chief minister Nitish Kumar instructed the Delhi resident commissioner to establish contact with students in Manipur, who will be ferried to Imphal in buses and flown to Patna by a special flight in the next few days.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that he spoke to Singh about the evacuation of four Delhi students. Assam sent a police team to Manipur to provide assistance or facilitate the return of Assamese people stuck in the state. Some people are coming back, but most people dont want to return. We are helping those who want to come back, Assam director general of police GP Singh said.
Anurag Thakur's deep conspiracy jab at Congress over Sonia Gandhi's Karnatakas sovereignty remark Union minister Anurag Thakur on Monday claimed that senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhis alleged reference to Karnatakas sovereignty has revealed the party's deep conspiracy to disintegrate India. Read more Union minister Anurag Thakur. (PTI)

Mysuru Dasara fame elephant Balarama passes away, PM Modi pays his respects

Balarama, the iconic elephant of Mysuru Dasara celebrations, passed away on Sunday evening due to agerelated health issues and TB. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tributes to Balarama and said that he is saddened by the incident. Read more

Tini Tom claims rampant use of drugs in Malayalam film industry, Dhyan Sreenivasan reacts: No one is force-fed

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Woman demands full refund from wedding photographer after divorce. WhatsApp chat goes viral

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Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja's wedding anniversary post

On 7th wedding anniversary, Sonam Kapoor shared some beautiful pictures of her with husband Anand Ahuja and their son Vayu Kapoor Ahuja. Read more

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Famous bike rider and YouTuber Agastya Chauhan died while over-speeding on the Yamuna Expressway in Uttar Pradesh on May 3. Police said Agastya was riding around a speed of 300 kilometres per hour when he lost control of his bike, and it hit a divider. He suffered fatal injuries and died on the spot. YouTuber Agastya Chauhan(Mint File)

The Tappal Police, which received the news of the accident around 9:30am on Wednesday, took custody of the YouTuber's body and then sent it for post-mortem at Kailash Hospital in Noida. DIG of Aligarh Anand Kulkarni said Agastya attempted to hit a speed of 300 kmph while he was driving his Kawasaki-Ninja ZX-10R, HT Auto reported.

The YouTuber was returning to Delhi from Uttarakhand when the mishap occurred. Agastya ran a YouTube channel named Pro Rider 1000.

Agra tops in road accident deaths caused by overspeeding

Overspeeding has taken the lives of more people in Agra than any other million-plus city in the state, the transport department revealed in its presentation in an inter-departmental meeting chaired by Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety (SCCoRS) in February.

In Kanpur, an average of 496 people were found to have been killed annually due to wrong-side driving, the highest, followed by Prayagraj (443), Agra (364), Lucknow (249) and Varanasi (154).
Five cheetahs -- three females and two males -- will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) before the onset of the monsoon in June, the Union Environment Ministry said on Monday. Kuno National Park received eight cheetahs from Namibia on September 17 last year, all of which were released into an enclosure by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (PTI)(HT_PRINT)

Also Read | Cheetahs will have a bright future in India

It also said the cheetahs will be allowed to move out of KNP and will not necessarily be "recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger".

So far, four of the eight cheetahs brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP.

"Five more cheetahs (three females and two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-roaming conditions in KNP before the onset of the monsoon rains in June," it said in a statement.

The decision was taken after a team of experts reviewed the current status of the "Project Cheetah" on the directions of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

They expert team said all the cheetahs were in good physical condition, making kills at regular intervals and displaying natural behaviours.

Cheetahs were chosen for release based on their behavioural characteristics and approachability by the monitoring teams.

The rest of the cheetahs will remain in the acclimatisation camps for the duration of the monsoon season.

"Certain internal gates will be left open to allow these cheetahs to utilise more space and for interactions between specific males and females to take place," the ministry said.

The situation will be reviewed after the monsoon season and further releases into KNP or surrounding areas will be done in a planned manner as per the Cheetah Conservation Action Plan to establish meta population, it said.

Of the four cheetahs that have already been released into free-ranging conditions, two (Gaurav and Shaurya) have stayed within the park and have not shown any interest in exploring the landscape beyond the borders of the park, according to the statement.

A female cheetah named Aasha has made two exploratory excursions to the east of KNP beyond the buffer zone but has remained within the broader Kuno landscape and has not ventured into human-dominated areas.

Another male (Pawan) explored areas well beyond the boundaries of the park on two occasions, venturing into farmland near the border with Uttar Pradesh during his second excursion. He was darted by the veterinary team and returned to an acclimatization camp in KNP.

The ministry said cheetahs, like other large carnivores, are known to range widely during the initial few months after being reintroduced into unfamiliar open systems.

"These movements are unpredictable and depend on many factors. After several months, the cheetahs should establish their own communication networks and settle down in relatively fixed home ranges.

"It is important that individual cheetahs do not become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase as they will then not participate in breeding and will thus be genetically isolated," it said.

Their degree of isolation will be assessed once they settle down and appropriate action will be taken to enhance their connectivity to the group.

Several wildlife experts have said that Project Cheetah overestimated the carrying capacity of KNP, and linked it to the incidents of Pavan straying out of the national park.

The expert team said it is impossible to determine the precise carrying capacity of cheetah in KNP until they have properly established their home ranges and that the home ranges of cheetahs can overlap substantially depending on the prey density and several other factors.

"While many have made predictions about the anticipated carrying capacity of cheetahs in KNP based on other ecosystems in Namibia and East Africa, the actual number of animals that the reserve can accommodate can only be assessed after the animals are released and have established home ranges," it said.

"Cheetah home-range sizes and population densities vary tremendously for different cheetah populations in Africa and for obvious reasons, we do not have useful spatial ecology data for cheetahs in India yet," the ministry said.

Under the ambitious Cheetah reintroduction programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch of eight spotted felines -- five females and three males -- from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno in Madhya Pradesh on his 72nd birthday on September 17 last year.

In a second such translocation, 12 cheetahs were flown in from South Africa and released into Kuno on February 18.

One of the Namibian cheetahs, Sasha, died due to a kidney-related ailment in March. Another cheetah, Uday, from South Africa died on April 13.

On the death of the two cheetahs, the ministry said chronic renal failure is a common problem in captive cheetahs and many other captive felid species, but is not infectious and cannot be transmitted from one animal to another.

An initial examination revealed Uday had most likely died of terminal cardio-pulmonary failure.

Failure of the heart and lungs is common in the terminal stages of many conditions and does not provide much information about the underlying cause of the problem, it said.
Chennai: Former foes O Panneerselvam and TTV Dhinakaran turned friends on Monday night, brought together by the common factor that they both have been ousted from the AIADMK. Expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam and Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam leader TTV Dhinakaran during their meeting in Chennai on Monday. (HT Photo)

Both the former AIADMK leaders came out of the meeting from TTVs residence in Chennai, held a joint press conference, joined hands and announced their decision to work together.

Panruti Ramachandran, a veteran of the AIADMK who was also expelled for siding with Panneerselvam (OPS), told reporters that they have decided a working arrangement like the CPI and CPI (M).

This comes months after Panneerselvam (OPS) has been saying that the AIADMK has to be united after its current general secretary Edappadi Palaniswami (EPS) had expelled him last July. TTV was ousted in 2017 along with his aunt and another former AIADMK leader V K Sasikala on the insistence of OPS to join hands then with EPS.

But things have drastically changed in Tamil Nadus main opposition party. On the one side there is EPS-led AIADMK and against him are the trio of OPS, TTV and Sasikala. While TTV heads a breakaway faction, Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), since 2018, OPS has three MLAs who support him and Sasikala hopes to reclaim her position and control, but in vain. Both OPS and TTV said that they do not want to speak of the past and cause further splits.

TTV said that this arrangement will not affect his five-year-old party. Ammas (J Jayalalithaas) party has been hijacked by those with money and muscle power. Me and OPS want to reclaim it. said TTV. My cadres have been asking me for seven months when Im going to meet OPS. We both do not have any vengeance against each other. We were separated due to a few reasons. We have not united today out of self-interest.

OPS said he wanted to meet Sasikala too. But she is not in the city. She has said that we would definitely meet on her return, OPS said. As a first step towards reclaiming our party we have met today. Our aim is to unite our cadre and bring back the glory of the AIADMK. OPS also issued a reminder that his legal case against the partys general council meeting last July which abolished the dual leadership (OPS as coordinator and EPS as joint-coordinator) and expelled him and elected EPS is not fully over.

EPS has said that he is ready to welcome anyone who has left the party except the trio. This also comes at a time when the BJP and AIADMK have firmed up the continuation of their alliance for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

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Campaigning for the upcoming assembly elections in Karnataka has ended. During the campaign and in their election manifestoes, the two main political parties  the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress  made promises to a wide range of economic groups. For example, both have promised free foodgrain to the poor. PREMIUM HT Image

Both have also made promises to what is likely to be a rich class: the Congress to government employees who might benefit from the Old Pension scheme and the BJP to apartment dwellers in Bengaluru. While these promises may or may not be their most important ones, they highlight the need to cater to a wide range of economic classes.

Why is this the case? This is because even though the state is among the richest in India, its wealth is not equally distributed geographically. In fact, this geographic inequality follows a pattern roughly in line with the historically different regions that make up Karnataka as we know it today. Here are some charts that describe this geographic inequality.

Karnatakas economy is heavily skewed

Karnataka is among the top five states by both GSDP and per capita GSDP among states that contribute at least 1% to Indias GDP. This makes it obvious that it is a rich state. However, most of the states income comes from just a handful of its 30 districts. Just 10 districts produce two-thirds of the states GDP. Just one district -- Bangalore Urban -- produces one-third of the states GDP.

See Chart 1

with a north-south divide in GSDP contribution

The chart above makes it clear that the economic weight of the state rests with very few districts. Is there a geographical pattern to it? Yes. The districts in the top quartile of GSDP contribution appear to be concentrated in the southern half of the state and those in the bottom quartile appear to be concentrated in the northern half of the state.

See Map 1

The north-south divide is starker for per capita GDP

To be sure, a district can make a high contribution to GSDP just by having a large population. Even a small value addition per person can then add up to a lot for the state there. However, small value additions per person -- through farming, for example -- are unlikely to make individual people rich in the state. This is indeed the case with some districts in Karnataka. For example, Bijapur, Gulbarga, and Belgaum districts on the north-western border with Maharashtra make significant contributions to the state GDP. They are ranked 15th, 14th, and 3rd among the 30 districts by their share in state GDP in 2021-22. However, all are in the bottom quartile of districts by per capita GDP. Therefore, the ranking of districts by per capita GDP shows a starker north-south divide than overall GDP of districts. To be sure, this divide is not just the result of lopsided development in the recent period. Karnataka inherited this geographical divide when it was created on linguistic lines. The districts that were part of the Hyderabad State and Bombay State were poorer compared to the Old Mysore State and this pattern persists until today.

See Map 2

This is likely because of concentration of non-agricultural sectors in the south...

As the section above explains, a high share of people working in sectors that do not create high income can decrease the average wealth of a district. This appears to be one of the reasons behind the north-south divide of wealth in the state. Although there is no strict correlation, the proportion of non-agricultural sectors in district GDP also follows a north-south divide. To be sure, this is not as stark as per capita GDP.

See Map 3

...but that does not mean services sector alone drives up incomes in the south

If not non-agricultural sectors share, is the share of services in district GDP correlated well with per capita GDP? This assumption makes sense because the tech capital of India  Bangalore  contributes one-third of the states GDP and is in the southern part of the state. However, it is not a correct assumption. For example, Tumkur and Dakshin Kannada in the southern half of the state have high per capita GDP, but services have very low importance in these districts. On the other hand, manufacturing has a high share in the GDP of these districts, leading to a high overall share of non-agricultural sectors. Clearly, it is the distribution of remunerative industries along with services in the state that is behind the geographic inequality that persists even today.

See Map 4
The high-decibel campaign for the May 10 bypoll in Odisha's Jharsuguda assembly seat ended at 6 pm on Monday, officials said. A poll official inks a person's finger (HT_PRINT)

Campaigning was intense as this is the last poll before the general elections next year.

Poll officials have reached Jharsuguda Engineering School from where they will collect their equipment and leave for polling booths.

"The silent period started at 6 pm today. Officials have been asked to ensure that all political workers, start campaigners and candidates who are not voters of Jharsuguda seat leave the constituency. All guest houses and hotels have been thoroughly checked," Odisha's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nikunj Bihari Dhal told reporters.

The CEO said all arrangements have been put in place to ensure peaceful voting on May 10. Polling will be held from 7 am to 6 pm on May 10 and votes will be counted on May 13.

As many as 2,21,070 people are eligible to exercise their franchise in 253 booths. Voters comprise 1,10,320 men, 1,10,687 women and 63 of the third gender.

He said polling officials of 227 of the 253 polling stations will leave for their destinations by Monday and the remaining will depart on Tuesday.

The official said sale or distribution of liquor in any hotel, restaurant or bar has been prohibited from 6 pm.

He said exit polls shall not be conducted from 7 am to 6.30 pm on the polling day and violators may get up to two years of imprisonment. Similar restrictions were imposed on opinion polls.

Heavyweight campaigners from major political parties including BJD, Congress and BJP took part in the electioneering.

The by-election was necessitated following the murder of sitting MLA and the then Health Minister Naba Kishore Das on January 29.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan were among those who campaigned for their candidates.

BJD has fielded Das's daughter Deepali Das, while BJP has nominated Tankadhar Tripathy. Congress has fielded Tarun Pandey.
The People's Alliance for Peace and Progress, Manipur, an organization working for Meiteis, on Monday claimed that 5,000 people belonging to the community have become homeless in the state's violence-hit Churachandpur district. Visuals from Manipur where the clashes broke out.(HT_PRINT)

Sectarian violence broke out in the northeastern state on May 3 when people from the Meitei community and the Kuki tribe clashed with each other over the Meiteis' demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the death of at least 54 people.

In a statement, the organisation alleged that all houses belonging to Meitis in the community settlement area in Churachandpur have been burned down by "well-armed civilians supported by militants".

"The Meiteis are taking refuge at the DC office of Churachandpur district headquarters which has very loose security. None of the refugees have been evacuated so far," it said and added that 5,000 people from the community have become homeless.

The organisation also claimed that in Moreh town, almost every Meitei house has been burned down and some Meiteis are taking refuge in Myanmar and the rest in an Assam Rifles camp at Khudengthabi.

The clashes broke out after the Kukis organised a demonstration in 10 hill districts of the state to protest against the Meiteis' demand.

So far, 23,000 people have been rescued from the violence-hit areas and moved to military garrisons and relief camps, officials said.
An Indian Air Force MiG 21 fighter jet crashed in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan, leading to the deaths of two civilians on the ground. However, the pilot of the aircraft is safe.



The aircraft had taken off from the Suratgarh Air Force station and the pilot had reported a technical snag soon after take-off. According to report, two women were killed after the MiG-21 crashed into the house in Bahlol. Villagers gather near the site where the IAF MiG 21 crashed in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh.(ANI)

A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident, the Indian Air Force said in a statement.





This comes days after an Indian Army helicopter with two pilots and a technician crashed in a forest area of Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. All the three injured personnel were injured and taken to Command Hospital, Udhampur, according to Indian Army.



Last year, two pilots were killed after a twin-seater MiG-21 aircraft had crashed in Barmer district of Rajasthan. The aircraft was airborne for a training sortie from Utarlai air base in Rajasthan.

Around 9:10 pm, the aircraft met with an accident near Barmer. Both pilots sustained fatal injuries. The IAF deeply regrets the loss of lives and stands firmly with the bereaved families, the IAF added.

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The Centre has decided to release five more cheetah from acclimatisation camps into free-roaming zones at the Kuno National Park before the onset of monsoon in June, the environment ministry said on Monday following an assessment by a team of experts from South Africa and India. A cheetah strays into an agricultural field adjoining a village near KNP on April 2. (PTI)

The cheetahs will be allowed of move out of the national park and will not necessarily be recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger, the ministry said in a statement.

So far, four of the eight cheetahs brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP.

The cheetahs were chosen for release based on their behavioural characteristics and approachability by the monitoring teams.

A team comprising Adrian Tordiffe, veterinary wildlife specialist, University of Pretoria, South Africa; Vincent van der Merwe, manager, Cheetah Metapopulation Project, South Africa; Qamar Qureshi, lead scientist, Wildlife Institute of India, and Amit Mallick, inspector general of forests, National Tiger Conservation Authority, visited KNP on April 30.

The team inspected most of the cheetahs from a distance and evaluated the current procedures and protocols for managing the animals. All the cheetahs were in good physical condition, making kills at regular intervals and displaying natural behaviour, the statement read.

The ministry said that projects of this magnitude and complexity tend to face many challenges.

This is the first intercontinental reintroduction of a wild, large carnivore species and therefore there is no comparable historical precedent, the ministrys statement said.

Due to careful planning and execution, all 20 cheetahs survived the initial capture, quarantine and lengthy transport to the purpose-built quarantine and larger acclimatization camps in KNP in Madhya Pradesh. Releasing the cheetahs into free-roaming conditions poses substantial risks, the statement said.

Eight cheetahs from Namibia were released in Kuno on September 17 last year, in the first leg of the translocation project after a decades-long effort to restore a species that was declared extinct in 1952, owing to poaching and shrinking grasslands. Twelve South African cheetahs were brought on February 18.

Of these, two cheetahs, Sasha and Uday died in March and April, respectively. There are now 18 cheetahs at the national park, along with four cubs born to Namibian cheetah Siyaya.

The remaining cheetahs will remain in the acclimatisation zones for the monsoon season, and their situation will be reassessed in September.

It is impossible to recapture Cheetahs when they stray out and cheetahs love to explore. So, we have decided to release five very habituated ones in the wild because we can still try to bring them back if they stray. Rest of the six will remain in the enclosure and will be relaxed. The staff will walk them and see if they can be approached with vehicles, Merwe said.

The experts, however, expressed disappointment that Mukundara Hills National Park in Rajasthan was not being considered as an alternative site for the cheetahs.

We know from our experience of reintroductions in Africa that mortalities are to be expected. Reintroduction involves a challenging phase when cheetahs encounter different dangers. We wanted Mukundara from day one for our cheetahs. It is very sad that due to various complicated issues, Mukundara is not yet being considered. When it comes to reintroduction of cheetahs, we do not put all eggs in one basket. It is not recommended. We have been told that Nauradehi and Gandhisagar parks are being fenced. We hope that is completed soon. Its great that we havent lost any cheetahs in India to snares or leopards yet. Leopards are a threat to cheetahs in SA also, said Vincent van dan Merwe, Manager, Cheetah Metapopulation Project, The Metapopulation Initiative, South Africa.

While the environment ministry did not provide details on the Mukundara Hills National Park as a site, it said that it is difficult to assess the carrying capacity of KNP until the cheetahs have properly established their home ranges.

Like Kuno, no protected areas in India are fenced (unlike in South Africa). Animals are thus free to move in and out of the park as they wish. Cheetahs are known to range widely during the initial few months after being reintroduced movements are unpredictable... It is important that individual cheetahs do not become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase as they will then not participate in breeding and will thus be genetically isolated, the ministry said.

The cheetah, who gave birth to four cubs in March, will remain in her camp to hunt and raise them, the ministry said, with Merwe adding that male and female cheetahs will be allowed to interact so they can breed.

Project Cheetah hopes to benefit global cheetah conservation efforts by providing up to 100, 000 km2 of habitat in legally protected areas and an additional 600,000 km2 of habitable landscape for the species.

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Fort Polk, LA (71446)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.
NEW DELHI: The national security advisers of India, the US and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss a major connectivity project expected to link a West Asian rail network to Indian ports, people familiar with the matter said on Monday. Saudi Arabia Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud met national security advisers of India, the US and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). (REUTERS File Photo)

NSA Ajit Doval joined his counterparts from the US and the UAE  Jake Sullivan and Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan  for the meeting in Jeddah on Sunday evening. It was preceded by a meeting between the Saudi crown prince and Sullivan.

There was no official readout from the Indian side on the visit by Doval, which was not previously announced. The meetings in Jeddah, coming close on the heels of secret talks brokered by China that led to an agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, were seen as part of efforts to counter Beijings growing influence in West Asia.

A statement issued by the White House said the three NSAs met Mohammed bin Salman, who is also Saudi Arabias prime minister to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world. The statement didnt give more details.

People familiar with the matter said an infrastructure project linking a network of railways in West Asia to Indian ports via shipping lanes figured in the meeting.

The use of the word interconnected in the White House statement assumes significance as news portal Axios reported that the meeting was meant to discuss a major joint infrastructure project to connect West Asian countries through a network of railways and then to Indian ports.

The state-run Saudi Press Agency said the meeting discussed means to strengthen relations and ties between the three countries [India, the US and the UAE] in a way that enhances growth and stability in the region.

The Axios report, which cited two unnamed US officials, said the infrastructure project is a key initiative the White House wants to push in West Asia to counter Chinas growing influence. The idea for the initiative came up during talks held over the past 18 months by the I2U2, a grouping that brings together India, Israel, the US and the UAE and has been dubbed the West Asian Quad.

Israel raised the idea of connecting West Asia through railways during I2U2 meetings, and the move was based on using Indias expertise in big infrastructure projects, a former Israeli official told Axios. The US administration then expanded on the idea to include Saudi Arabia.

Sullivan also held bilateral meetings with the Saudi crown prince and the Indian and UAE NSAs to discuss bilateral and regional matters. Sullivan looks forward to further consulting with Mr Doval on the margins of the Quad Summit later this month in Australia, the White House statement said.

The four countries agreed to maintain regular consultations and follow up on the matters discussed on Sunday, the statement added.

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Controversial film The Kerala Story exposes new type of terrorism that does not use ammunition, said BJP chief JP Nadda, becoming the latest leader from his party to endorse the Adah Sharma-starrer. Haveri [Karnataka], Apr 19 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President JP Nadda addresses a public meeting for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections, in Haveri on Wednesday. (ANI Photo)(Jagat Prakash Nadda Twitter)

Watch: BJP Chief endorses 'The Kerala Story'; Nadda says film exposes new type of terrorism

Also Read: The Kerala Story pulled down from theatres in Tamil Nadu

I just got to watch The Kerala Story. We know about a new type of terrorismwe have heard of bullets, bombs and automatic weapons being used for terrorism. There is, however, this dangerous type of terrorism that is without ammunition. This film successfully exposes such poisonous terrorism and the conspiracy behind it, said the BJP chief in Bengaluru on Sunday night, after watching the movie in a special screening organised by the party.

Nadda, however cautioned that this new type of terrorism should not be associated with a particular state or religion.

Referring to a recent Kerala high court order refusing to stay the release of The Kerala Story, he said that the court, while refusing to order a stay, made a serious observation.

Our youngsters who are misguided, and reach a point of no returnthe movie is an eye-opener for them, and for the society and large. All of use should watch it, he further remarked.

Like 2022's The Kashmir Files, which was based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from Jammu and Kashmir in the 1990s, The Kerala Story too has been endorsed heavily by the ruling party, including by prime minister Narendra Modi, who mentioned the film while addressing a rally in Karnataka's Bellary ahead of the May 10 election in that state, where the BJP is seeking a re-election. In Madhya Pradesh, where the saffron party is in power, and which will go to polls towards the end of the year, the movie has been declared tax-free.

Directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, The Kerala Story hit the theatres on May 5. In its teaser, the makers had claimed that more than 32,000 women from the southern state were recruited to the Islamic State (IS), triggering a massive political row. The makers, however, told the high court they will take down the teaser from their social media accounts.

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Curtains came down on the high decibel campaigning for the Assembly polls in Karnataka on Monday evening, setting the stage for the mega ballot battle on May 10. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the second day of a roadshow and the last campaigning rally for BJP candidates ahead of the Karnataka assembly elections, in Bengaluru on Sunday. (ANI)

With the stakes being high this election, the major political parties in contention -- the BJP, Congress and JD(S) -- and their candidates have made a strong pitch seeking to boost their prospects at the hustings.

In the intensity of the campaign, there were instances of leaders crossing the line of public discourse and indulging in personal attacks and abuses against each other.

The top guns of all the major political parties were on a campaign blitz across the state in the past few days.

While the ruling BJP, riding on the Modi juggernaut, wants to break the 38-year-old jinx and retain its southern citadel, the Congress wants to wrest power to give the party much-needed elbow room and momentum to position itself as the main opposition player in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Also, the JD(S) led by former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda was seen putting all its might into campaigning, wanting to emerge as "king" and not "Kingmaker", hoping to get the required numbers to form a government on its own.

"A government with full majority" seemed to be the favourite slogan for the leaders of all the political parties during campaigning for the elections to the 224-member Assembly, as they stressed on getting a clear mandate to form a strong and stable government in the state.

The BJP's campaign seemed largely "centralised" with the focus mainly on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 'double-engine' government, national issues and programmes or achievements of the union government coupled with just a few from the state.

The Congress by-and-large focused on local issues and its campaign also was run by its state leaders initially. However, its central leaders such as AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra pitched in subsequently.

JD(S) too ran a highly localised campaign, anchored solely by its leader H D Kumaraswamy, with party patriarch Deve Gowda too joining in later despite his advanced age and related ailments.

Modi made a major campaign push in the last one week since April 29, by holding 19 mega public meetings and six roadshows, canvassing votes for BJP candidates across the state with the poll slogan 'Ee Baariya Nirdhara, Bahumatada BJP Sarkara' (This Time's Decision: Majority BJP Government).

Ahead of the announcement of polls on March 29, Modi had visited the state seven times since January to unveil several government schemes and projects, and had addressed numerous beneficiary meetings.

According to BJP leaders, Modi's election rallies bolstered its campaign in a big way and would help the party script history in the polls.

BJP national leaders have held a total of 206 public meetings and 90 roadshows, while its state leaders have held 231 public meetings and 48 road shows, the party said.

Top leaders of political parties continued campaigning even on the last day, as only door-to-door campaigning is allowed tomorrow.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah too has extensively travelled the state campaigning and strategising for the polls. "PM and Shah have put Congress on the back foot in the run-up to the polls," a senior BJP leader said.

A number of BJP leaders, including its national president J P Nadda, Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states like Uttar Pradesh's Yogi Adiyanath, Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madhya Pradesh's Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Goa's Pramod Sawant, as well as Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar, Smriti Irani, Nitin Gadkari, among others too have travelled in various parts of the state for campaigning.

The party also effectively utilised the services of its top leader in Karnataka B S Yediyurappa to counter the attempt by the Congress to build a perception that it was turning anti-Lingayat.

While the BJP tried to highlight the achievements of both the state and central governments to pitch for another chance for its 'double-engine' government (same party government in state and at Centre), the party also openly sought votes in the name of Modi, projecting his image as a global leader and India's "growing stature" on the world stage.

While trying to push the idea that the state's development was possible only if the BJP came to power, with the support of the party's government at the Centre, the party and its leaders tried to defend the Karnataka government's decision to scrap 4 per cent reservation for Muslims under OBCs, and also made efforts to counter the allegations of corruption against the regime.

The BJP and its leaders, especially the Prime Minister, tried to turn opposition barbs at him like "venomous snake" into campaign issues for the party to capitalise on. The Congress's mention of a possible ban on right-wing outfit Bajrang Dal was also used by Modi and the BJP machinery to counter the grand old party by trying to brand it "anti Bajarangbali" and "anti Hindu".

For the Congress, wresting power from the BJP would be a morale booster and the key to reviving its electoral fortunes and strengthening its credentials as the main opposition player against the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

By winning Karnataka, it also wants to give a momentum of sorts to its workers to take on the battle-ready election machinery of the BJP later this year in the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan.

Though the campaign initially centered around its state leaders like Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar, Kharge gave it momentum and thereby prepared the pitch for the party's top leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi to join in.

The brother-sister duo extensively travelled across the state, challenging the BJP's campaign machinery led by Modi, countering and challenging him on various issues, most importantly on the issue of corruption, while promising to provide a better alternative for Karnataka. Their mother and former AICC president Sonia Gandhi addressed a party rally in Hubballi on Saturday.

This election is also a prestige battle for the grand old party, with a Kannadiga Kharge, who hails from Kalaburagi district, being at its helm as the national president. The party has set a target of winning 150 seats.

The party has held 99 public meetings and 33 road shows by its top state and central leaders.

The Congress's main aim to attack the BJP government in this election was over corruption/scams and the charge of 40 per cent commission, coupled with the Adani issue. While extensively highlighting its five key poll 'guarantees', the party tried to inform the people about its charge against the BJP government of having "failed in fulfilling 90 per cent of its promises" made in its 2018 manifesto.

At a time when it seemed like all was going well, Congress itself waded into controversies with Siddaramaiah's statement that "theres already a Lingayat CM who is the most corrupt, which the BJP turned into an insult to the entire Lingayat community; Mallikarjun Kharge comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a venomous snake; then his son and Chittapur MLA Priyank Kharge calling Modi a nalayak beta (incompetent son).

Amid these back-to-back controversies, the Congress manifesto's promise of possibly banning the right-wing Bajrang Dal caused some anxiety as it threatened to hurt the optics, as BJP aggressively picked up the issue to portray the grand old party as being against lord Hanuman and the sentiments of Hindus.

Will the 2023 Karnataka Assembly polls be a battle of political survival for JD(S) or will the regional party once again emerge as kingmaker, like it did in 2018, in the event of a hung verdict? That is the debate in political circles this time too.

Plagued by desertions and internal rifts, and with the image of being a "family party", Gowda's son Kumaraswamy, has in a way single-handedly managed the JD(S) campaign across the state, with his aging father taking the back seat.

Kumaraswamy has by-and-large focused his campaign on a five-fold programme called Pancharatna that the JD(S) plans to implement on coming to power. It includes quality education, health care, housing, farmer welfare and employment.

Though the 89-year-old Deve Gowda initially stayed away from campaigning due to age related ailments, he has been travelling and campaigning for JD(S) candidates in the past couple of weeks, especially in the party bastion of Old Mysuru region, making an emotional pitch, and countering the Congress's and BJP's attacks against his party.

Allegations by both national parties that the JD(S) was the 'B team' of the other, and that JD(S) was hoping to win just 35-40 seats to play a crucial role in government formation in case of a hung verdict were among the criticisms faced by Kumaraswamy in this campaign.

The former chief minister, however, has heavily banked on the topics of regional pride and Kannadiga identity in his campaigning, along with issues related to welfare of farmers and the poor to attract voters.
A 40-day-long campaign for the Karnataka polls closed on Monday, setting the stage for the high-stakes May 10 assembly elections where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hope to defend the only southern state under its control from challengers Congress and Janata Dal (Secular). Union home minister Amit Shah holds the roadshow in Doddaballapura on Sunday. (Amit Shah twitter)

Also read: 4% Muslim reservation was unconstitutional, BJP removed it': Amit Shah ahead of Karnataka election

The BJPs campaign was led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who addressed 21 rallies spanning the state, including a late blitz in state capital Bengaluru, where he addressed several meetings and held two road shows over the weekend. The Congress, in contrast, ran an equally aggressive but more local campaign led by former chief minister Siddaramaiah and state unit chief DK Shivakumar. The regional JD(S) relied on the charisma and ground connect of its patriarch, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda.

The final day of campaigning saw road shows and public events by leaders of all three parties.

While chief minister Basavaraj Bommai and former CM BS Yediyurappa turned out for the BJP, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar, and leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra held public meetings for the Congress. The JD(S) too pulled out the big guns on Monday, with Deve Gowda and former CM HD Kumaraswamy campaigning for the party.

The fates of 2,613 candidates will be decided across 224 seats by over 52 million voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced that it had seized 388 crore since March 1, as compared to the 83 crore in 2018.

Karnataka chief electoral officer Manoj Kumar Meena said protocols are in place to deploy police personnel across the state. Vulnerable polling stations will be monitored online, he said.

The results in Karnataka, the biggest state to go to the polls in 2023 till now, will also pave the road to the 2024 general elections. A win for the BJP will consolidate its foothold in southern India and reinvigorate it for polls later this year in Telangana. A victory for the Congress will hand it a rare win in a direct contest with the BJP, boost its standing within the Opposition camp, and provide it a template of regionalism and caste aspirations to tackle the Hindutva and welfare umbrella of the BJP.

The high-decibel campaign was shaped by five broad issues  corruption, unemployment and price rise, promises to tweak the states reservation framework, comments targeting Modi, and the Congresss manifesto likening the Bajrang Dal to the Popular Front of India and promising a ban.

The BJPs campaign was led by Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and former CM Yediyurappa, who stepped away in 2021 but played key roles in ticket selection and campaigning.

I have travelled to all parts of Karnataka. The enthusiasm, inclination, and support for BJP in all areas. There is enthusiasm to form a BJP government. PM Modis popularity is tremendous which is getting converted into votes. It is clear the BJP is forming the government with full majority, Shah said on Monday.

The party is hoping to be the first in more than three decades to come back to power, and tried to effect a generational change in its state unit. But its first list of 189 candidates, declared on April 11, sparked a rebellion with a dozen leaders leaving the party. Prominent among them is former chief minister Jagadish Shettar and former deputy CM Laxman Savadi who are fighting the election on Congress tickets. The BJP says the people will teach the turncoats a lesson. Senior state party leaders said 200 big rallies were addressed by top leaders, who spoke about the promises of double engine government.

Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah did roadshows and rallies. I am confident that we (BJP) will win 135 seats in the Karnataka Assembly election. Congress is a drowning ship, its leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra won only 2-3 seats in Uttar Pradesh even after campaigning for 4-5 months, Yediyurappa said.

For the Congress, which hopes Karnataka will become the fourth state it will run on its own, the ticket distribution process was smoother. The party also attempted to keep the rivalry between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar out of the public arena, even releasing a video on Sunday showing the two leaders exhibiting bonhomie. Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi held road shows and rallies almost every day in the past fortnight, zeroing in on the partys main poll plank, the state governments alleged corruption particularly through popular campaign slogans such as 40% sarkara and Pay CM.The party also released five guarantees, including free electricity, stipends for unemployed youths and women, free rice and free bus rides for women.

Also read: Congress chief gets poll panel notice over Sonia Gandhi's 'Karnataka sovereignty' remark

Prices have skyrocketed and the common persons income has not increased, if not gone down. It has become difficult for people to sustain. That is why we want to introduce these schemes, Shivakumar said.

To counter this, the BJP alleged that the Congress takes 85% commission, recalling former prime minister Rajiv Gandhis 1985 statement that only 15 paise of every rupee spent by the central government reached the poor. Modi also sought to corner the Congress over controversial comments made by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge likening the PM to a venomous snake. He said that the Congress was known for poor governance and will use the state as an ATM if it won. The Congress countered by pointing out that BJP lawmaker Basangouda Patil Yatnal also described former Congress president Sonia Gandhi as a vishkanya (venomous woman).

The JD(S) largely focussed on retaining its stronghold of Old Mysuru, which comprises 52 seats, and safeguarding its traditional vote base, the Vokkaligas. Its poll promises includes include Matrushree and women empowerment programmes, including loan waiver for women self-help groups and five free cylinders a year besides enhancement of widow pension.

The party also announced Raitha Chaitanya for farmers, Vikalachetanara Asare and an increase in incentives for lawyers, among a slew of promises to police personnel, on education, health, religious minorities, scheduled castes, and on youth empowerment.

Though few expect the regional party to reach the majority mark on its own, the party can play kingmaker in a tight election or a hung assembly, as it had done in 2018.

JDS is not the B-team of BJP or Congress. We are the B-team of the people of Karnataka. PM Modi accused Congress of being an 80 per cent party, Congress called the BJP 40% government, but nobody dared to call JDS any percent party, Kumaraswamy added.

Also read: 'They are dangerous': Mamata Banerjee slams BJP over Karnataka election, Manipur violence

Caste and reservations also played a key role in the campaign. In April, the BJP government rejigged the states reservation matrix, scrapping a 4% quota for Muslims and redistributing it equally between the Lingayats and Vokkaligas, two of the states dominant communities. The party also sought to subdivide the Scheduled Caste quota, sparking protests. In contrast, the Congress said it will restore the Muslim quota and increase the ceiling of reservations to 75%, far beyond the Supreme Court-mandated limit of 50%.

The Congress tried to counter the BJPs Hindutva with development agenda with social justice by promising higher reservation and a demand for national caste census, said political analyst Sandeep Shastri. Will it work or not would be known on May 13 when the votes will be counted.

Faith-based appeals also played a part, especially after the Congress likened the Bajrang Dal, the youth wing of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, to PFI in its manifesto and called for a ban. Modi said the announcement was akin to locking up Lord Hanuman, who is also known as Bajrangbali. Late in the campaign, Shivakumar visited a Hanuman temple in Mysuru and promised to build more temples to Anjaneya (another name for Hanuman) and renovate existing ones.

Some Congress leaders accepted that the controversy may consolidate the fringe Hindu votes for the BJP but added that the aim was to prevent a drift of Muslim votes to the Social Democratic Party of India, which is contesting 19 seats in coastal Karnataka, or Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen. The message we wanted to give, was given. We believe it will help us more than the BJP, a senior Congress leader aware of the developments said.

Valerian Rodrigues, a former professor at Mangalore University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, said the announcement could help the Congress get more Muslim votes particularly in coastal Karnataka, where PFI and Bajrang Dal cadres have repeatedly clashed. The controversy came too late [in the campaign]. The template for the election was more or less set. It could be a talking point in some parts in coastal Karnataka or in some urban areas, but it is too late for this to sink in as a poll issue, he said.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday moved the Election Commission against remarks by former Congress president on sovereignty of Karnataka, which has triggered a massive political storm in the run-up to the Karnataka assembly election. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi during a public meeting for the Karnataka assembly election in Hubbali on Saturday. (ANI)

A delegation of the BJP went to the poll panel office in the national capital. She (Sonia Gandhi) deliberately used the word sovereignty. Congress manifesto is the agenda of the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang and hence they are using such words. We hope EC will take action against this anti-national act, Union minister Bhupender Yadav told reporters.



Union minister Shobha Karandlaje too hit out at the former Congress president, "Today we gave a complaint against Sonia Gandhi to Election Commission. She gave a speech in Hubbali in which she talked about the sovereignty of Karnataka. We use sovereignty for the country. She is heading the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang. We demanded that FIR should be registered against her".



On Saturday, Sonia Gandhi had addressed a rally in Hubbali district of poll-bound Karnataka. The Congress official Twitter handle posted,"CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: "The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity."



A political storm erupted with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders targeting the grand old party over the remark.

Not only Karnataka, I want to tell this to the entire country with a lot of pain that in this election Congresss shahi parivar yesterday came to Karnataka and said that they want to protect the sovereignty of Karnataka", the prime minister said in a rally on Sunday.



Do you know what is the meaning of it... When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India", he had said.

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Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal on Monday responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attack on Congress, accusing the grand old party of advocating for Karnataka to be separated from the rest of the country.



"PM said : Congress Shahi Parivar wants Karnataka to secede from India. But Modiji : The nation saw them "bleed" for India. Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi. Is the NCERT going to efface those facts from textbooks ?" Sibal tweeted.



Addressing a public rally in Mysuru on Sunday, the prime minister had said, Not only Karnataka, I want to tell this to the entire country with a lot of pain that in this election Congresss shahi parivar yesterday came to Karnataka and said that they want to protect the sovereignty of Karnataka". Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal,(PTI file)

Do you know what is the meaning of it... When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India, he added.



PM Modi's attacks came a day after former Congress president Sonia Gandhi addressed a rally in Hubbali. The party's official Twitter handle posted,"CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity.

Sibal also took a jibe at the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), which has been at the centre of controversy for dropping certain chapters on Mughal history in the textbooks.

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Days before the Karnataka assembly election, Union home minister Amit Shah on Monday said there is no provision for reservation on the basis of religion in the Constitution and the 4 per cent reservation for Muslims was unconstitutional, and therefore, the Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state had removed it. Union Home Minister Amit Shah addresses during a public meeting ahead of Karnataka assembly elections at Hunagunda in Bagalkot district on Sunday.(ANI)

"There is no provision for reservation on the basis of religion in our Constitution. Reservation within reservation done with a lot of thought...Before the end of campaigning for the Karnataka election, Siddaramaiah must clarify that if the Congress increases the reservation for Muslims from 4 per cent to 6 per cent, then whose reservation will they cut down, Shah told news agency ANI in an interview.

Earlier, addressing a public meeting in Hunagunda, Shah said, "The BJP has strengthened the security of the nation by banning the Popular Front of India (PFI), but the Congress party is against it... BJP will neither allow Muslim reservations nor will allow Lingayat reservations to be reduced in the state."

Attacking Congress, Shah further said, "Congress gives false promises everywhere and loses elections. They take support of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and Popular Front of India (PFI) which Karnataka's people do not like and are furious about it."

Exuding confidence in Bharatiya Janata Party's victory in the upcoming Karnataka elections, Shah said the party will return to power with a full majority.

Speaking on the double-engine government in the poll-bound state, Shah said, I have toured all regions of Karnataka and we can witness eagerness for a double-engine government in the state. This will get converted to votes for the party.

The 224-seat Karnataka assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark to form the government is 113 seats. Monday is the last day of campaigning for the election.

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With Karnataka set to vote on Wednesday, elaborate security arrangements have been made, and a large workforce of election functionaries have been deployed to hold the polls, chief electoral officer of Karnataka Manoj Kumar Meena said on Monday. BSF personnel guard a sealed room where electronic voting machines (EVMs) are stored in Bengaluru. (AFP)

Also read: Congress chief gets poll panel notice over Sonia Gandhi's 'Karnataka sovereignty' remark

We are distributing all the materials to polling parties on Tuesday. We are fully prepared. Now that the outside canvassing is over, we are checking everywhere campaigning is still going on. We are also checking hotels if there are political functionaries who are not voters of the constituency, Meena said.

The Election Commission prohibits public meetings 48 hours before the end of polling, and hence all parties are barred from holding rallies and roadshows. However, political parties are allowed to hold door-to-door campaigns before the polls.

During the silence period that is 48 hours before the closure of polling, political functionaries are mandated to leave the constituency if they are not voters of that Assembly seat.

The CEO said protocols are in place for police force deployment across the state, and the vulnerable polling stations will be monitored through webcasting. Almost 30,000 polling stations are covered through webcasting, which will be directly telecasted to the Returning Officers chamber.

The other polling stations will be covered by the micro-observers, who are the Central government employees, or the paramilitary forces, Meena said, adding that there would not be any issue in conducting the elections smoothly.

There are 58,545 polling booths across the state and more than 8,000 in Bengaluru, according to Meena. The EC has deployed 84,119 police personnel, including 2,959 special personnel, for the elections.

The poll body has also imposed a dry day from May 8, 6 pm till the end of May 10. The sale of liquor will be prohibited from 5 pm on May 8 to 6 am on May 11, and from 6 am on May 13 to 6 am on May 14. Flying squads will keep a strict vigil on private establishments to enforce the rule, the EC order read.

The Election Commission has also released the Chunavana mobile application that will provide all information related to the elections for the convenience of voters.

The app will offer users polling booth location, navigation to the polling booth, candidate information, polling officers details, the queue at the polling station on a real-time basis, available parking space and nearby emergency facilities, the CEC said, stressing that this would help tackle urban voters apathy.

Urban voters dont come out to cast their votes due to long queues, parking issues. The Chunavana app aims to address these issues. If you know your Assembly constituency and the polling station, you can check the number of people in the queue at a particular time. We have also made arrangements at cluster polling stations (more than one polling booth) so that there is enough parking space available. Our local traffic will update it, he said.

With Bengaluru witnessing rains, Meena expressed apprehension about the voter turnout. Earlier we thought it would be the heat, but its the rain that were worried about. We are making sure that there is enough shade at polling booths to tackle this, he said.

According to the IMD, light to moderate rains is very likely in parts of coastal Karnataka, North Interior Karnataka, and South Interior Karnataka, including Bengaluru, on May 9, 10 and 11.

Responding to reports of the facial recognition technology that the polling booths will be equipped with, the CEO said the idea is still under consideration. The idea came from one of the teams at the hackathon held recently. Facial recognition helps in cutting down the waiting time in the line. It is still under consideration. We have not taken any decision.

Meanwhile, transport and police services are likely to be affected in Bengaluru due to the elections.

Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Pratap Reddy said that the personnel have been deployed for polling-related duties till May 11, and asked residents to dial 112 in case of emergencies. Each of us, right from @CPBlr to the last person of @BlrCityPolice including @blrcitytraffic, will be on polling-related duties till 11th May. Other services, incl Traffic will be impacted, Reddy tweeted.

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) said their services would be affected on May 9 and 10 as they have deployed a significant number of buses for poll-related duties and urged commuters to plan their travel accordingly.

However, the metro services in the state capital will be extended on the day of polling, Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) said Monday.

Also read: Karnataka polls: Election Commission notice to Congress over its 'corruption rate card' ads

In a statement, the BMRCL said that Metro services in the city would be extended till midnight on May 10. The last train from the terminal stations Baiyappanahalli, Kengeri, Nagasandra, Silk Institute, Krishnarajapura (KR Puram) and Whitefield (Kadugodi) would depart at 12.05 am on May 11. The last trains from Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station, Majestic will leave at 12.35 am, towards four terminals: Baiyappanahalli, Kengeri, Nagasandra, Silk Institute on May 11, the statement read.

The polling for the 224 Assembly constituencies in Karnataka will be held on Wednesday, May 10, between 7 am and 6 pm. Over 5.31 crore voters will decide the fate of 2,615 candidates.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said he watched the interview of former J&K governor Satya Pal Malik where Malik said Kejriwal will be arrested next. "Arrest me, why give threats," Kejriwal said in a fresh attack over the alleged Delhi liquor scam. "Kejriwal bahut chhoti cheez hai, poora desh dekh raha hai...They are defaming us every day because the entire country knows that Aam Aadmi party is the only 'imandaar' party in the country. If you want to arrest, do it. Why are you giving threats? BJP is saying Kejriwal is the next to be arrested. This proves that they are controlling the ED and the CBI. How do they know who is next? Did they tell the CBI or did the CBI tell them?" Kejriwal said addressing a press conference on Monday. Read | Now court says there's no evidence: Kejriwal on liquor case Kejriwal on Monday again spoke on the alleged Delhi liquor scam.

Reiterating that there is no liquor scam, Kejriwal said, "The allegation is that there is some South Lobby which gave AAP 100 crore bribe. CBI and ED too said the same in the court but also admitted that there is no evidence of 70 crore out of this alleged 100 crore. They said some Rajesh Joshi carried the rest 30 crore from South Lobby and gave that to some AAP leaders. They have no evidence, no witness; just claims."

"Now the May 6 court order says there is no evidence that Rajesh Joshi brought this money. Not even 1. If Rajesh Joshi did not bring money, AAP leaders did not receive the money, then what is the case? Rajesh Joshi got a bail," Kejriwal said.

"They said AAP spent 100 crore in the Goa election. They raided all those who worked with us in Goa and arrested them. Then ED said AAP spent some 19 lakh - 20 lakh in cash. And the rest were in the cheque. This is a big certificate of honesty for the AAP," Kejriwal said. "They even put Sanjay Singh's name and then ED said it happened by mistake. They did not imagine that Sanjay Singh would take action against ED," Kejriwal said.

The AAP claimed a fresh turn in the liquor case based on a recent bail order of the Rouse Avenue court. Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra -- two accused in the liquor case -- were granted bail on Saturday. The court said the evidence against the accused, Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra, was not sufficient for the case against them to be considered prima facie "genuine".

"The whole liquor scam is false. We were saying it from the beginning. Now even courts have started saying it. It's a desperate measure by BJP to malign an honest party like AAP," Kejriwal tweeted.

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A day after a tourist boat capsized in Keralas Malappuram district, the state government ordered a judicial probe into the incident that killed at least 22, including seven children. Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has announced 10 lakh compensation each to the families of the victims. The CM also said the government will examine whether the safety protocols for tourist boats were followed by the boat service. Onlookers gather near the site of a boat accident in Tanur, in Malappuram district on May 8, 2023. (AFP)

The mishap involving the double decker boat occurred near Thooval Theeram beach in the Tanur area of the district at around 7 pm Sunday. As per a report by news agency PTI, police officials said the tourist boat could have overturned possibly due to overcrowding as it carried at least 30-40 passengers onboard.

A report by Malayalam news channel Manorama added that the boat had been functioning without a fitness certificate mandatory for tourist boats. The report also alleged that the fateful vessel was initially a fishing boat, which was converted for the purpose of tourist services by the owner.

Although the exact number of people onboard when the tragedy struck is still unconfirmed, operators of the month-old cruise service were urging more people to join saying it was the last trip of the day, despite the boat being overloaded, eyewitnesses told Manorama News.

Despite the vessel being packed beyond its capacity of 20 persons, operators ignored warnings that the boat was tilting to one side. The report added that since the boat had only two exit doors and glass windows, many could not escape to safety.

PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), told PTI that the boat had violated the rule of vessels not being allowed to operate after 6 pm. Demanding a probe into the man-made accident', Keralas opposition leader VD Satheesan, while speaking to media, said, "Nobody even knows if the boat had a licence or not."

While the owner of the boat is absconding, police informed that investigations will begin after the rescue operations by National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard personnel are over.

A case has been registered against the boat's owner for culpable homicide, police said.

The state government announced a day of mourning on Monday and cancelled all official events as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives in the accident.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday renewed his attack on Narendra Modi at an election rally in Karnataka's Kalaburagi, alleging that the prime minister was protecting all the corrupt BJP leaders. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge(ANI)

(He says) my government is doing a very good job. Yes, indeed it is doing a very good job (Kharge said sarcastically). It is only asking for 40 per cent commission. Na khaaunga, na khaane dunga khaane wale toh tumhare baaju main baithe hain. Tum unko khila rahe ho (Will not eat, nor will allow anyone to eat Those who are eating are the ones sitting next to you. You are feeding them), Kharge said.

Kharge has been attacking Modi since the Congress demanded a JPC probe into the allegations of stock manipulation and financial fraud against the Adani Group in February. "In 2014, the prime minister had made the statement "na khaunga, na khane dunga was it a jumla?" Kharge had asked then.

In an apparent reference to Gautam Adani, the opposition leader said, The wealth of a close friend of Modi has grown 13 times in two-and-a-half years Something is fishy that is why the government is not agreeing to order a JPC probe into the Adani issue."

"Modi government talks a lot about democracy but does not walk the talk," he added.

Indian markets regulator SEBI has been investigating a critical January 24 report by Hindenburg Research that alleged the Adani Group improperly used offshore tax havens and manipulated stocks. The conglomerate has denied doing so.
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday expressed concerns over the current situation in violence-hit Manipur and alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party government is not providing a clear picture of the death toll in the northeastern state where shoot-at-sight orders are in force. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee addresses a press conference at Nabanna in Howrah on Monday, (PTI)

Banerjee also said the Bengal government has decided to ban the controversial movie 'The Kerala Story'. This is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and to maintain peace in the state, Banerjee said at a press briefing at the state secretariat.

What is 'The Kashmir files'? It is to humiliate one section. What is 'The Kerala story'?... It is a distorted story They are also planning to make Bengal Files to defame the state, Banerjee said.

I do not support CPM people. They are working with the BJP. They needed to be criticised first. I am telling the Kerala government, it is unfortunate. Your party is working with the BJP. And the BJP is showing Kerala Files (The Kerala Story). All are distorted information, the Trinamool Congress supremo added.

Urging the people of election-bound Karnataka to vote for stability and development, the Bengal CM said, My only appeal to brothers and sisters in Karnataka is that please vote for stability and development. I appeal that please dont vote for the BJP. They are dangerous.

She also lashed out at the BJP government in the Centre for not sending a single representative to Manipur to review the situation.

"I am quite tense with the situation in Manipur. We are not getting a clear picture of the number of deaths in shoot-at-sight (order) as the state government is not giving any information," she said.

Manipur violence is a man-made problem, Banerjee claimed.

Violent clashes broke out in Manipur after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals  Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party reacted sharply to chief minister Mamata Banerjee's order to immediately ban the screening of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' in West Bengal to avoid any incident of hatred and violence. A banner from The Kerala Story film,

West Bengal became the first state to ban the film, which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to the Islamic State or ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage.

Accusing the Trinamool Congress of doing appeasement and vote bank politics", Union minister Anurag Thakur, said, Their (opposition) face is getting exposed By banning the film (The Kerala Story), West Bengal is committing injustice. Recently, only, a girl was raped and murdered in Bengal...what are you ( Mamata Banerjee) getting by standing up for such terrorists

In a statement, Thakur said, Mamata Banerjee has done injustice to the sisters and daughters of West Bengal by banning the film. The manner in which an innocent girl is raped and dragged away in Mamata Banerjee's state puts us to shame. Such thinking gives strength to those terrorists. At least the whole country should come together against terrorism. It is beyond understanding why their sympathies are with terrorist organizations and not with these innocent girls of Kerala who were victims of terrorism. Today the whole country wants to ask her in one voice that why she has so much problem with a film focused on terrorism?"

Thakur added, Those who consider this film as agenda-propaganda, I want to say to such advocates of terrorism that today every child of the country wants to know the story of Kerala which you have been hiding.

Earlier in the day, Banerjee described 'The Kerala Story' as a distorted movie, aimed at defaming the southern state.

"To avoid any incident of hatred and violence and to maintain peace in the state, the CM has directed an immediate ban on screening of The Kerala Story. Action will be taken against any cinema hall that violates the ban," news agency PTI quoted an official as saying.

Reacting to the move, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar said Banerjee wanted to deprive the people of Bengal of the harsh reality.

CM @MamataOfficial has banned the movie The Kerala Story. Nothing to surprise, it was expected of her. It is based on the true stories and shows how Islamists trap Hindu girls into Love Jihad and later send to become ISIS terrorists. Didi want to close her eyes to the reality, Majumdar tweeted.

In another tweet, he wrote, She want to deprive the people of WB,specially women from this harsh reality.The cases of Love Jihad are common in WB. WB has led the way of the country whenever the need arises. Her decision is opposite to that. By banning,she has proved again there is no FoE in WB. Shame!

Another example of hinduphobia running deep within the ruling dispensation of West Bengal. The Supreme Court didn't ban the Kerala Story, but failure CM had to do it in order to appease her vote bank. @bjp4bengal will oppose this fascist fatwa issued by her.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said, Mamata Banerjee should declare the film tax-free in West Bengal instead of banning it.

There's a continuing political outcry around the movie even as it has been made tax-free in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh.

Raking up the 'Kashmir Files', a film on the alleged genocide of Kashmiri Pandits, which ran to packed houses despite evoking protests from the Opposition, the Bengal CM said, "What was 'The Kashmir Files'? It was meant purely to humiliate a particular section of society. What is 'The Kerala Story'? It is a distorted story."

The CM directed the state chief secretary to remove the movie from all theatres where it is being screened.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Monday appealed to people to bring peace and calm to the state hit by ethnic violence, killing around 60 people. People are evacuated by the Indian Army to a temporary shelter as they flee ethnic violence that has hit Manipur, near Imphal,(AFP)

Around 60 innocent people have lost their lives, 231 people suffered injuries and around 1700 houses burnt down in the unfortunate incident of May 3. I appeal to people to bring peace and calm to the state. Transportation of stranded persons to their respective locations has started, Biren Singh said.

The chief minister's appeal comes hours after the Supreme Court expressed concerns over the huge loss of life and property in the state and asked the Centre and the Manipur government to step up relief and rehabilitation efforts for those hit by the violence, besides protecting places of worship, many of which were targeted during the mayhem.

While listing out steps taken to deal with the situation, the Centre told a bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud that no untoward incidents have been reported in Manipur in the last two days and the situation there is gradually returning to normalcy.

Ethnic clashes broke out in Manipur on Wednesday after tribals organised a demonstration in the ten hill districts of the state to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. The clashes displaced around 23,000 people and resulted in the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute about 40 per cent of the population and live mostly in the hill districts.

Several airlines were operating special flights from Imphal to help people stranded in Manipur return home, officials said on Monday, maintaining that this resulted in airfares on the route not rocketing out of control despite the massive jump in demand.

Regional carrier Flybig said it operates a Guhahati to Imphal flight via Tezu six days a week. But, since Saturday it has operated three additional flights between Imphal and Guwahati, on which people from Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Maharashtra returned from Imphal.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three women were killed after a MiG-21 Bison fighter jet crashed into a house near Rajasthans Hanumangarh on Monday morning, officials said, with the accident again turning a spotlight on the troubling safety record of Indias longest-serving fighter plane. Local residents gather at the site of the IAF's MiG-21 fighter aircraft crash in Rajasthan on Monday. (ANI)

Also read: Trainee female pilot, instructor killed in plane crash in MPs Balaghat

While the pilot managed to eject with minor injuries, three other civilians  all women  also sustained injuries in the crash. A Court of Inquiry has been set up to ascertain the cause of the accident, the Indian Air Force said in a statement.

The MiG-21 was on an operational training sortie, the IAF statement said.

The pilot, whose identity is yet to be revealed, faced an onboard emergency shortly after taking off from the Suratgarh air force station and attempted to recover the aircraft, the statement said.

Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection, sustaining minor injuries in the process, the statement said, adding that the jet crashed at around 9.45am.

The IAF said the wreckage of the aircraft fell on a house in Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh district, unfortunately leading to the loss of three lives. The pilot was recovered from about 25 kilometres North East of Suratgarh base, it said.

Local police said the jet crashed into the house of a person identified as Ratti Ram on the outskirts of the village, and the wood stored in his house caught fire.

Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured, inspector general of police (Bikaner range) Om Prakash said.

The deceased were identified as Rams wife Basho Kaur, 45, Leela Devi, 55, and Banto Kaur, 60. The three women died of burn injuries, Hanumangarh superintendent of police Sudheer Chaudhary said.

The house was completely damaged and some nearby structures were also affected.

Saroj, 18, Vimla, 19, and Veerpal Kaur, 32, were injured and rushed to a district government hospital for treatment, the officials said, adding their condition is stable.

Witnesses said they heard a loud explosion and saw a parachute descending. Within seconds, the plane crashed into the house and the wood stored there caught fire.

Local people immediately started efforts to douse the flames with water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital, a villager said.

The family members of the victims refused to accept the bodies and demanded compensation of 50 lakh and government job.

Chief minister Ashok Gehlot expressed grief over the incident and said that compensation under Chiranjeevi Insurance will be given to the kin of the victims.

Saddened by the crash of Indian Air Forces MiG-21 aircraft in Suratgarh killing three people. I pray to God to give peace to the souls of the departed and strength to the family members to bear the loss. The relatives of the deceased will be given assistance from Chiranjeevi insurance, Gehlot tweeted.

Hanumangarh collector Rukmani Riar said that a compensation of 5 lakh each under the scheme will be paid to the families of the deceased women. She said that they are talking to the family members of the victims to convince them to conduct their last rites.

The IAF, in its statement, said it regrets the loss of lives.

The IAF regrets the loss of lives and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident, it said.

The IAF has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

The IAF is set to retire its three remaining squadrons of the MiG-21 Bisons by 2025, officials familiar with the matter said. Each squadron has 16 to 18 fighter planes. The MiG-21 Bis (an upgraded MiG-21 variant flown for the first time in 1976) was further upgraded to MiG-21 Bison in India in 2000.

I am happy that the government has decided to phase out the MiG-21s by 2025 and I hope this deadline doesnt change, said Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies.

Also read: IAFs first C295 completes maiden flight in Spain, induction begins in Sept

The air force got its first single-engine MiG-21 in 1963 and it gradually inducted 874 jets (different variants of the Soviet-origin supersonic fighters) to bolster its combat potential. More than 400 MiG-21s have been involved in accidents that have claimed the lives of 200 pilots during the last six decades, earning the aircraft the ominous epithets of Flying Coffin and Widow Maker.

Of the 874 MiG-21s inducted by the IAF, more than 60% were licence-produced in India. More MiG-21s have crashed than any other fighter because they formed the bulk of the fighter aircraft in the IAFs inventory for a long time, the officials said. IAF had to keep its MiG-21 fleet flying longer than it would have liked because of the delay in the induction of new fighters.

The IAF retired a MiG-21 Bisons at the Srinagar-based No 51 squadron, which is also known as Sword Arms, last September.

(With inputs from HTC, New Delhi)

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NEW DELHI: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has removed from service its superintendent of police (SP) Vishwa Vijay Singh, who was part of the team that raided the Cordelia cruise ship in October 2021 and arrested actor Shah Rukh Khans son Aryan Khan, among others, people familiar with the development said on Thursday. (File Photo)

To be sure, the officer has been removed from the agency in an unrelated case, and not Aryan Khan probe.

Singh was already under suspension since April last year while an enquiry was being carried out in NCB regarding his conduct. The enquiry was recently completed in a separate case, also related to misconduct, after which a decision was taken to remove him from the service, said an officer, declining to be named.

NCB director general Satya Narayan Pradhan confirmed the development.

When contacted, Singh said: I dont want to comment on it. The matter is pending with the ministry of home affairs (MHA).

A separate vigilance enquiry into the allegations levelled against NCBs Mumbai team, led by former zonal director Sameer Wankhede, in the Cordelia raids was completed in November last year, based on which a departmental action was referred against seven officers. The findings of the enquiry have not been made public.

Wankhede, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer who has since been transferred from NCB, led a team of officers, including Singh, and some witnesses on the night of October 2, 2021 to raid Cordelia ship at the International Cruise Terminal at Green Gate off the Mumbai coast.

NCB claimed to have seized 13 grams of cocaine, five grams of mephedrone, 21 grams of marijuana, 22 pills of MDMA (ecstasy), and 1.33 lakh in cash from the vessel. It also intercepted 14 people, and after hours of interrogation, placed Aryan Khan (24), Arbaaz Merchant (26), and Munmum Dhamecha (28) under arrest on October 3. Subsequently, the agency arrested 17 more people in connection with the raid.

Relying on WhatsApp chats, Wankhedes team had claimed the accused were part of a larger conspiracy. It alleged that Aryan Khan was in touch with some foreign drug supplier and the chats referred to hard drugs and bulk quantities. However, rejecting NCBs claims, a single bench of justice Nitin W Sambre of the Bombay high court noted in October last year that there was no evidence to suggest existence of any conspiracy.

HT was first to report that a special investigation team (SIT), headed by deputy director general Sanjay Kumar Singh, formed by NCB to reinvestigate the raids, did not find evidence to suggest that the actors son was part of a larger drugs conspiracy or an international drugs trafficking syndicate. The SIT also found several irregularities in the dramatic raid.

The SIT filed a charge sheet against 14 people in May last year but gave a clean chit to Aryan Khan, saying that the actors son was never in possession of drugs hence there was no need to take his phone and check his chats. The chats also did not suggest Khan was part of any international syndicate.

Wankhede was transferred to the office of director general of taxpayers services (DGTS) in Chennai.
BJP leader Vasundhara Raje on Sunday night hit out at Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot over his claim that she saved his Congress government from toppling in 2020, saying that Gehlot's statement is a conspiracy. Raje alleged that the Rajasthan CM is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 assembly elections. BJP leader Vasundhara Raje. (HT Photo)

Nobody can insult me as much as Gehlot has. He has made such false allegations as he is rattled by the rebellion in his own party, Raje said.

Earlier on Sunday while addressing a programme in Rajasthan's Dholpur, Gehlot claimed that Raje and two other BJP leaders helped him save his government during the 2020 crisis when some Congress MLAs revolted and tried to topple his government.

Former Chief Ministers of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje Scindia, Shobha Rani, and Kailash Meghwal knew their party people were toppling the government. Vasundhara Raje Scindia and Kailash Meghwal had said that it has never been our tradition to topple the elected government on the basis of money. They did not support those who toppled the government due to which our government survived, Gehlot said.

Targetting BJP, he added, Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Gajendra Shekhawat conspired together and distributed the money inside the Rajasthan government.

I advised our MLAs (who revolted) that even if some of the money taken has been spent by them, they should inform us. I will give you money and tell the AICC, but don't take BJP's money. If you will keep their money, they will scare you later, threaten you... They took away 25 MLAs, the Rajasthan CM added.

In July 2020, Congress leader and then deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot and 18 other party MLAs revolted against Gehlots leadership. The crisis lasted for nearly a month after the party's high command intervened and removed Pilot as the deputy CM and state Congress chief.
As the Supreme Court on Monday heard a plea seeking an SIT probe into Manipur violence, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said the top court is concerned deeply about the loss of life and properties because of the violence in the state. "Our immediate target is protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people," the top court said asking the Centre and the state government to give details of relief camps. "What about the displaced persons? They must be brought back to their homes. Religious places must also be protected," the Supreme Court said. People wait at a temporary shelter in a military camp in Manipur.(AFP)

This is a humanitarian issue. The government is taking action. We have no doubt that they're doing it because the SG said. You may flag your concerns in an appropriate manner so that this proceeding doesn't become another ground for destabilisation, Chandrachud said.

The governments (Centre, state) submitted before the Supreme Court that the curfew imposed in the wake of the violence last week was relaxed yesterday and there were no incidents of violence on Sunday and Monday. The Apex Court sought an updated status report on Manipur situation after a week.

The violence started on last Wednesday in 10 districts after a march was taken out opposing the demand for the ST status of the Meitei community which accounts for about 53% of the state's population. In the arson that followed, at least 54 people died, properties were damanged and hundreds were shifted to safer places.

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NEW DELHI: Expressing its concern over the loss of life and displacement of people after ethnic violence swept through large parts of Manipur, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Union government and the state to ascertain all suitable arrangements and medical facilities in the relief camps for the victims, besides ensuring their protection and safe return to home. The Supreme Court stressed that the immediate target of the court is protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people affected by the violence. (HT File Photo)

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud further stressed the duty of the state to protect the places of religious worship, observing that the immediate target of the court is protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people affected by the violence.

This is a humanitarian issue. We are concerned deeply about the loss of life and loss of properties. The government is taking action and there is no reason not to trust them. At the same time, we are also flagging our concerns. But we do not want these proceedings to become another platform to further destabilise the state, remarked the bench, which also comprised justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala.

Asking the state government to submit an updated status report on rescue and rehabilitation measures by May 17 when the matter will be heard next, the bench recorded the states submission that it will move the appropriate forum against the March 27 order of the Manipur high court that directed the state government to send a recommendation to the Centre on the demand for scheduled tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community.

The clashes between Meiteis and tribals started in Churachandpur district on May 3 after a solidarity march by the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) to protest the high court order and the Meitei communitys demand to be included in the ST category. The government has confirmed the death of at least 37 people in the violence, but the toll could be significantly higher. The violence prompted the state government to issue shoot-at-sight orders, enforce a curfew and ban internet services.

Hearing a batch of three petitions filed separately by BJP MLA and chairman of the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) Dinganglung Gangmei, and NGO Manipur Tribal Forum, the court underlined its three concerns to solicitor general Tushar Mehta who appeared for the Centre and the state: We would like to know how many relief camps are there and what are the services provided? Second, what about displaced persons? Is the government trying to bring them back to their homes? Third, places of religious worship should also be protected.

It added: We emphasise due arrangements in relief camps for all basic amenities in terms of food, medicines etc; taking all necessary precautions for rehabilitation of displaced persons and protection of places of religious worship.

On his part, Mehta said that adequate security arrangements have been made in the state to quell the violence and that the situation is gradually coming back to normalcy.

We have deployed 52 battalions of central armed police forces and more than 100 columns of the army and state police which are conducting flag marches in disturbed areas. One police officer from the state has been appointed as chief security advisor. Another experienced officer has been repatriated from the Centre to take over as the chief secretary of the state. The curfew was lifted for a few hours yesterday and there is relaxation today too. No incident of violence has been reported in the last two days, Mehta told the bench.

Citing the volatile atmosphere in Manipur, Mehta requested the bench to defer proceedings for at least a week to wait for the situation in the state to improve. He also informed the bench that the state government is taking steps to legally move against the March 27 order of the single-judge bench of the Manipur high court.

At this point, senior advocate Sanjay Hegde appeared in the matter for some of the petitioners before the high court who had demanded the ST status for Meiteis.

At this point, senior advocate Sanjay Hegde appeared in the matter on behalf of some parties which had petitioned the high court to seek ST status for Meiteis.

The bench told Hegde that the petitioner should have been careful enough to show to the high court Supreme Court rulings that clearly hold that a court cannot direct for inclusion of any community in the SC/ST category. This power, the high court never had. This is the presidential power. How could high court direct the state government that it shall forward the recommendation to the Government of India? it asked the senior counsel.

Hegde said that there is not just one community which has been impacted by the violence. To this, the bench retorted: Our order does not mention any one community or class. It applies to everyone. Our immediate concern is rehabilitation and safety of people.

Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, representing the tribal outfits, pressed for the evacuation of a batch of tribals from a particular area. Tushar Mehta assured the bench that he will look into the concerns but added that the proceedings before the top court should not become another reason to create unrest. The bench agreed with Mehta, recording in its order that the solicitor general has assured that the concerns shall be addressed and all remedial steps will be taken.

Dinganglung Gangmei, BJP MLA and chairman of the Hills Area Committee (HAC) of the Manipur assembly, contended that the proceedings before the high court were vitiated on account of not making the HAC a party and that the high court order created tension and led to violence between the two communities. He argued that there is no recommendation of the state government for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list and that the state cannot be forced by the court to do so.

The other petition filed by NGO Manipur Tribal Forum through advocate Satya Mitra demanded protection of the tribals  Nagas and Kukis, and to deploy central forces to protect all churches and places of worship of these communities in Manipur. The plea has also sought a probe into the violence.

Churachandpur, the epicentre of the violence, located around 70 km from Imphal, saw the first signs of normalcy on Sunday when people stepped out for two hours when the curfew was relaxed, while massive military deployment kept guard. Comprising around 53% of Manipurs population, the majority Meiteis community is also affluent while the Nagas and Kukis, who constitute about 44% of the population, mainly live off of agriculture on the hills and are more economically deprived.

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by Andrea Scrima (excerpt from a work-in-progress)

When they arrived in the U.S., Southern Italians brought with them the sense that theyd been branded as underdogs, that they belonged and would forever belong to a lower class, but the birth of the Italian-American gangster was rooted in attitudes toward the Mezzogiorno that dated back far earlier. After Italy was unified under Vittorio Emanuele II in 1861, a new national government imposed Piedmonts centralized administrative system on the South, which led to violent rebellion against State authority. Politicians and intellectuals took pains to deflect responsibility for what they saw as the barbarism of the Mezzogiorno, and were particularly receptive to theories that placed the blame for the Souths many problems on Southern Italians own inborn brutishness. The decades following Unification saw the nascent fields of criminal anthropology and psychiatry establish themselves in the universities of Northern Italy; implementing the pseudosciences of phrenology and anthropometry in their search for evolutionary remnants of an arrested stage of human development manifested in the people of the Mezzogiorno, they used various instruments to measure human skulls, ears, foreheads, jaws, arms, and other body parts, catalogued these, and correlated them with undesirable behavioral characteristics, inventing in the process a Southern Italian race entirely separate from and unrelated to a superior Northern race and officially confirming the biological origins of Southern savagery.

The criminologist Cesare Lombroso, a former army surgeon and head of an insane asylum who became professor of forensic medicine and hygiene in 1878, professor of psychiatry in 1896, and professor of criminal anthropology in 1906, held that the people of the South were evolutionary throwbacks lacking in Aryan blood. According to this theory, a congenital inferiority forestalled the mental and emotional development of Southern Italians and was largely to blame for their historical backwardness. Criminality, and particularly the criminality of the South, was therefore hereditary, and identifiable through a specific set of physical traits in keeping with an earlier state of human evolution. Ape-like features such as a low-set brow, long arms, protruding jaw, and other anatomical peculiaritiesatavistic anomalies of the body that were closer to a savage, animal stateunmistakably identified the born criminal.

While some criminal anthropologists considered themselves progressives and called for political and economic reforms to resolve the Southern Question, the notion of a separate, transhistorical Southern Italian race as an inferior civilization tainted by a criminality of blood gained ground and provided a handy justification for the economic exploitation of the Mezzogiorno, which was considered incapable of self-government or social reform. One of Lombrosos followers, Alfredo Niceforo, became a leading figure in the eugenics movement and called for dividing the recently unified country into two governments and two Italies separated by race; another important figure from the Italian school of criminal anthropology was the ethnologist Giuseppe Sergi, who asserted that only cranial morphology, in other words the shape of the skull, and not, as previously believed, the cephalic index or ratio between the craniums two diameters, was a reliable measurement in establishing human taxonomy. The Smithsonian Institute published Sergis Varieties of the Human Species in 1894, while Alfredo Niceforos Contemporary Barbarian Italy appeared in English translation four years later. As impoverished peasants fled the South in search of a better life, the influence of Sergi and Niceforo supplied the nativists, eugenicists, and immigration alarmists in the U.S. with scientific evidence that confirmed their worst fears and legitimized their resolve to restrict immigration to a bare minimum.

Although Cesare Lombrosos conception of criminal sociology was entirely lacking in any acknowledgement or analysis of the psychological and environmental forces driving human behaviorfor instance housing and social milieu, economic conditions, education, professional opportunities, nutrition, climate, culture, and familial influences went entirely unmentioned, restrictionists seized on Lombrosos racial theories to support their own efforts to keep out those they considered to be outsiders of evolution. Some Lombrosians claimed that the fact of emigration itself reflected a criminal disposition and racial inferiority. Their thinking had a direct impact on American immigration debates even after Italys leading intellectuals no longer considered them valid. Sergis seminal work The Mediterranean Race was published in 1901 and was read by President Theodore Roosevelt; alongside the work of Niceforo, it later served as a work of reference for the Dillingham Commission and its Dictionary of Races or Peoples, which culminated in the Johnson Act of 1921 and subsequently the JohnsonReed Act of 1924, which drastically reduced immigration through quotas of national origin.

The immigration of Southern Italians had begun far earlier and at the request of American business interests, however. The emancipation of Black slaves led to a dramatic labor shortage across the American South, and in 1866, the state of Louisiana created the Bureau of Immigration, which began distributing pamphlets abroad to attract prospective workers. The Louisiana Sugar Planters Association, comprised of around 500 plantation owners, cooperated with the Bureau of Immigration to send agents to Europe, while throughout the 1870s, more and more plantation owners joined the Louisiana Immigration and Homestead Company to encourage European agricultural workers to emigrate, particularly Southern Italian peasants who were accustomed to heavy labor. The Sugar Planters Association succeeded in having a law passed by the state of Louisiana to facilitate the immigration of Sicilians; agreements with steamship companies soon followed to ensure a direct passage from Naples and Palermo to New Orleans. In a strategy the Americans called push and pull, Italy passed the Freedom to Emigrate law of 1888 as part of a series of bilateral agreements signed by plantation representatives and Italian diplomats to allow for the importation of the labor force they so badly needed. Agents were invited to Sicily to inspect the muscles of young men willing to emigrate; promises were made to pay the cost of the voyage and a handsome salary. In the year 1892, there were 30 immigration agencies and 5,172 subagents in Italy, all of which were involved in recruiting the poor. In 1895, the number of agents grew to 7,109. Villages were inundated with brochures and counterfeit letters from supposed emigrants praising America and the abundance of work and prosperity to be found there, and emigration companies paid between five and 25 dollars to each agent who succeeded in persuading a family to leave. The peasants, keen to finally own land again, were told they would soon be earning enough to purchase their own plots in the U.S. Needless to say, the majority of these promises went unfulfilled.

In a mass deportation conceived by two governments, 100,000 Sicilians passed through New Orleans between the years 1880 and 1900. The success of the sugarcane campaign induced the cotton and lumber industries and the railroad companies to follow suit. Attitudes toward the immigrants were initially favorable, but as they left the plantations in search of better opportunities, the mood gradually soured. Due to its seaport, many Italians eventually settled in New Orleans, where they worked in the fishing industry or as seamen, longshoremen, and stevedores and gradually built up a tropical fruit trade. In a startlingly short period of time, they rose from street peddlers to prosperous businessmen in control of much of the growing fruit trade with Latin America. Inevitably, resentment at the Italians success led to a rise in prejudice against them. They werent especially keen to give up their language or customs to assimilate to the Southern way of life, and because they fraternized with African Americans, they were an affront to the white social order. As Southern Democrats moved toward creating a Solid South with a one-party system and white supremacy as its creed, they increasingly began to see the Italians in racist terms. Inflammatory editorials appeared in the local newspapers and acts of violence were committed against the Italian community. As it turned out, the plantation owners had been eager for the white immigrant labor the Italians initially provided, but had never dreamed that the new arrivals would prove to be so thrifty, industrious, and shrewd that they would become independent entrepreneurs in such a short period of time. As a result, Louisianas businessmen were determined to curb the competition and curtail opportunities for the Italians social and economic advancement. In 1889, a Louisiana newspaper printed a cartoon of a group of Italian immigrants trapped in a cage being lowered into a river with a caption that read: The Way to Dispose of Them. Shortly afterward, a mob of thousands lynched eleven Italian-American men. In the aftermath, the Italian government severed diplomatic relations with the U.S., while in Louisiana, an ordinance was passed that put Italian waterfront merchants and workers out of business and handed control of the docks over to an association formed by several of the men who had led the mob.

(to be continued)

 Andrea Scrima 2023

All Rights Reserved

Read another section of this work-in-progress here.

Information on Andrea Scrimas first novel, A Lesser Day, can be found here.

Her second novel, Like Lips, Like Skins, was published Sept. 2021 in a German edition titled Kreislaufe. English-language excerpts have appeared in Trafika Europe, Statorec, and Zyzzyva.
Expressing concern over loss of life and displacement of people after ethnic violence swept through large parts of Manipur, claiming dozen of lives, the Supreme Court on Monday directed the Union government and the state to ensure all suitable arrangements and medical facilities at relief camps for the victims, besides arranging their safe return home. Security personnel help displaced Manipuris shift to army camps on Monday. (ANI)

Also read: Manipur CM Biren Singh's appeal as around 60 innocent people killed in violence

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud stressed the duty of the state to protect places of religious worship, observing that the immediate target of the court is protection, rescue and rehabilitation of people affected by the violence.

This is a humanitarian issue. We are concerned deeply about the loss of life and loss of properties. The government is taking action and there is no reason not to trust them. At the same time, we are also flagging our concerns. But we do not want these proceedings to become another platform to further destabilise the state, remarked the bench, which also comprised justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala.

Asking the state government to submit an updated status report on rescue and rehabilitation measures by May 17 when the matter will be heard next, the bench recorded the states submission that an appropriate forum will be moved by the state against the March 27 order of the Manipur high court, which directed the state government to send a recommendation to the Centre on the demand for scheduled tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community.

The clashes between Meiteis and tribals started in Churachandpur district on May 3 after a solidarity march was conducted by All Tribal Students Union of Manipur (ATSUM) to protest the high court order and the Meitei communitys demand to be included into the ST category. At least 37 people are confirmed to have died in the violence, which involved arson, rioting and targeted killings, but the toll could be significantly higher. The violence had prompted the state government to issue shoot-at-sight orders, enforce a curfew and ban internet services.

Hearing a batch of three petitions filed separately by BJP MLA and chairman of the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) Dinganglung Gangmei, and NGO Manipur Tribal Forum, the court underlined three concerns to solicitor general Tushar Mehta who appeared for the Centre and the state: We would like to know how many relief camps are there and what are the services provided? Second, what about displaced persons? Is the government trying to bring them back to their homes? Third, places of religious worship should also be protected.

It added: We emphasise on due arrangements in relief camps for all basic amenities in terms of food, medicines etc; taking all necessary precautions for rehabilitation of displaced persons and protection of places of religious worship.

Mehta said adequate security arrangements have been made in the state to quell violence and the situation is gradually coming back to normalcy.

We have deployed 52 battalions of central armed police forces and more than 100 columns of army and state police which are conducting flag marches in distrurbed areas. One police officer from the state has been appointed as chief security advisor. Another experienced officer has been repatriated from the Centre to take over as the chief secretary of the state. The curfew was lifted for a few hours yesterday and there is relaxation today too. No incident of violence has been reported in the last two days, the S-G told the bench.

Citing the volatile atmosphere in Manipur, Mehta requested the bench to defer the proceedings for at least a week to wait for the situation in the state to improve. He also informed the bench that the state government is taking steps to legally move against the March 27 order of the single-judge bench of the Manipur high court.

At this point, senior advocate Sanjay Hegde appeared in the matter for some of the petitioners before the high court who had demanded ST status for Meiteis.

The bench told Hegde that the petitioner should have been careful enough to show to the high court Supreme Court rulings that clearly hold that a court cannot direct the inclusion of any community in the SC/ST category.

This power, the high court never had. This is the presidential power. How could high court direct the state government that it shall forward the recommendation to the Government of India? it asked the senior counsel.

Hegde said that there is not just one community which has been impacted by the violence. To this, the bench retorted: Our order does not mention any one community or class. It applies to everyone. Our immediate concern is rehabilitation and safety of people.

Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, representing the NGO, pressed for evacuation of a batch of tribals from a particular area. S-G Mehta assured the bench that he would look into the concerns being raised but added that the proceedings before the top court should not become another reason to create unrest. The bench agreed with Mehta, recording in its order that the S-G has assured that the concerns shall be addressed and all remedial steps taken.

Gangmei contended in the top court that the proceedings before the high court were vitiated on account of not making the HAC a party and that the high court order created tension and led to violence between the two communities. He argued that there is no recommendation of the state government for inclusion of the Meitei community in the scheduled tribe list and that the state cannot be forced by the court to do so.

Also read: No grudges: Meiteis, Kukis fleeing clashes in Manipur share camp

Another petition filed by NGO Manipur Tribal Forum, through advocate Satya Mitra, demanded protection of the tribals  Nagas and Kukis  and to deploy central forces to protect all churches and places of worship of these communities in Manipur. The plea has also sought a probe into the violence.

Churachandpur, the epicentre of the violence, located around 70km from Imphal, saw the first signs of normalcy on Sunday when people stepped out for two hours as curfew was relaxed, while massive military deployment kept guard.

Comprising around 53% of Manipurs population, the majority Meitei community is relatively affluent while the Nagas and Kukis, who constitute about 44% of the population, mainly live off agriculture on the hills and are economically deprived.

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The Supreme Court on Monday sought response from the Bihar government on its decision to release former Bihar Member of Parliament (MP) Anand Mohan, who was serving life imprisonment for the murder of Gopalganj district magistrate G Krishnaiah in December 1994. Gangster-turned-politician Anand Mohan was officially released from Saharsa jail on April 27 (File Photo)

Issuing notice on a petition filed by the former IAS officers wife Umadevi Krishnaiah, a bench of justices Surya Kant and JK Maheshwari also issued notice to the Centre and Anand Mohan and posted the matter next week.

To ensure Mohan gets the notice, the Supreme Court directed the service of notice through the Saharsa district superintendent of police. The ex-MP is currently residing at Saharsa.

Also Read: Slain Gopalganj DMs wife moves SC over ex-MP Anand Mohans release

Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra assisted by advocate Ritu Raj argued the petition for the aggrieved widow claiming that the decision of the Bihar government to amend the Bihar Prison Manual was done with the sole aim to release Mohan.

Mohan was sentenced to death by a trial court in 2007. His sentence was commuted to life by the Patna high court in 2008, a decision which the Supreme Court upheld in July 2012.

The said amendment has been brought about only for the benefit of the convict as he is apparently the only convict to get the benefit of this amendment, read the petition.

On April 10, the Nitish Kumar government amended the Bihar Prison Manual, 2012, removing the murder of a public servant on duty clause from the list of cases for which remission of jail term cannot be considered which allowed a convict punished for the murder of a public servant to be eligible for premature release after undergoing 14 years of incarceration.

The earlier rule on remission prevailing in the state was governed by the 2002 policy under which such convicts were to be considered for premature release only on completion of 20 years of imprisonment. The gangster-turned-politician was officially released from Saharsa jail on April 27.

The petition termed the April 10 notification ex-facie illegal and contrary to judgments of the Supreme Court.

Terming Mohans release very unfortunate Luthra said that at the time of the (murder) incident, Mohan was a member of the Bihar assembly. The petition further stated that Mohan enjoyed political support and belonged to an influential family, adding that he had 32 criminal cases pending against him and it could not be said with certainty that he lost his potentiality to commit crime.

Also Read: Anand Mohan release: New caste equations being tried in Bihar ahead of 2024 polls, say experts

While inside the jail, the petition highlighted instances where Mohan was found to possess mobile phones with SIM cards. On another occasion, he was allowed to attend the trial by travelling in his own vehicle and staying at a government circuit house. These were important considerations that should have gone against Mohans release, the petition said.

Further, the petition filed by advocate Tanya Shree said, The notification of April 10 and order dated April 24 (releasing Mohan) is arbitrary, unreasonable, and has been passed without taking into consideration the guidelines for premature release of convicts issued in Laxman Naskar case and has resulted in denial of justice to family of deceased and is in violation of Article 14 (right to equality) and Article 21 (life and liberty) of Constitution.

The top court also heard an application moved by an ex-IAS officer and former Union minister KJ Alphons who sought to intervene in the proceedings. Present in person, Alphons said, I seek to be impleaded in the matter as I am deeply distressed by the states decision. The Court allowed Alphons to render assistance when the matter is next heard.
NEW DELHI: Union minister for information and broadcasting Anurag Thakur on Monday said the film The Kerala Story boldly shows the dangerous conspiracy of global terrorism in Kerala and exposes the truth about religious conversion. Union minister Anurag Thakur, who watched The Kerala Story in the Capital, also slammed the West Bengal government for banning the film. (PTI)

Thakur, who watched the film in the Capital, also slammed the West Bengal government for banning the film.

The Kerala Story is an attempt to present the truth, he said and added that the film will give a push to the fight against terrorism.

The film presents the truth about how innocent daughters of India are recruited for terrorist organisations by trapping them in the name of love. Through this film, the conspiracy going on for years against the country has been exposed, he said.

The minister said that it was for the first time that a film has so boldly shown the dangerous conspiracy of global terrorism going on in Kerala to the entire country and the world.

The truth, which the Congress and the Left have been denying for the last decade, has come before us today. This is not just a film, it is a document that exposes the nefarious conspiracies of organizations such as the global terrorist organisation ISIS against India. It teaches us how to save our sisters, daughters and children from this monster of terrorism, he said.

He also accused the opposition of Indulging in appeasement politics.

The Congress and the Left have stooped to such an extent that they resorted to propaganda and even went to court in defence of the terror conspiracies going on in Kerala for decades. Congress and leftists should tell whether they are standing with the innocent girls of India or are against them.

On the West Bengal government banning the screening of The Kerala Story in the state, the I&B minister said: Mamata Banerjee has done injustice to the sisters and daughters of West Bengal by banning the film. The manner in which an innocent girl is raped and dragged away in Mamata Banerjees state puts us to shame. Such thinking gives strength to those terrorists.
After surviving ethnic violence roiling his home town in Manipur and spending restive nights at a relief camp for several days, 26-year-old Manish Irom finally felt a moment of relief on Monday night when he arrived at the Assam Rifles headquarters at Pallel, about 47 kms from state capital Imphal. He was part of the 450 Meitei tribal men, women and children who reached the camp on Monday and shifted into barracks. Several Kukis arrive at the Assam Rifles headquarters at Pallel, in Kakching town of Manipur, on Monday.

Also read: 60 killed, 1,700 houses burnt: Manipur CM calls for calm

I am relieved to have arrived here. The violence I witnessed on the night of May 3 will always be the scariest moment of my life. I can never forget that. I cannot sleep when I think about that night, Irom said.

Such camps have sprouted up all over the northeastern state thats been rocked by clashes since last Wednesday. But Pallel is unique, in that it is the only camp where families belonging to both Meitei and Kuki communities have been accommodated. The barracks of the two groups  which have targeted each other in several parts of the state as simmering resentment spilled over into violence last week  are separated by less than a kilometre, all within the same compound.

Colonel Abhimanu Singh, whose men have been ferrying people from violence-hit areas, credited the communities for the unique arrangement. Bringing the two communities to the same camp in spite of the fact that they are considered to be in a state of communal war became possible only because we could integrate the leaders of all communities and hold several rounds of meetings with them, Singh, who is in-charge of the camp, said.

The first meeting took place even before the violence started (anticipating that something may happen). And confidence building exercise had to be intensified because rumours outnumbered the actual number of attacks (during the clashes). The Kukis and Meiteis leaders met for the first time at Pallel police station on Sunday evening which made todays development possible, he added.

Clashes first broke out last Wednesday in Churachandpur town after tribal Kuki groups called for protests against a proposed tweak to the states reservation matrix, granting scheduled tribe (ST) status to the majority Meitei community. Violence quickly engulfed the state where ethnic fault lines run deep, displacing thousands of people who fled burning homes and neighbourhoods.

The state is still picking up the pieces. At Pallel, a sense of disbelief and apprehension looms over the residents, who have been ripped apart from their homes and are scared of returning as tensions run high.

Aheibam Thoiba, a 29-year-old contractual driver for the customs, was among the Meiteis who was brought to the camp on Monday. I was returning home from Imphal on May 3 when I was attacked. I saw three or four people die. No place seemed to be safe. However, I feel relieved that the army has taken up the exercise. I want peace to return, he said.

When asked how he reacted to the presence of Kukis in the same camp, he said he held no grudges against any particular tribe.

On the other side of the base, Meiboi Gangte, a nurse at Imphals Jawaharlal Nehru Medical Institute of Science, alleged that the girls and boys in the institutes hostel were attacked on Friday night. The police did not come to help us. Three females were beaten unconscious. I fled from the hostel and have been hiding in an Army relief camp since then, she said.

M Rameshwar Singh, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmaker from Kakching, also arrived at the army base but rejected charges that the states ruling party was responsible for the violence. The incident happened because emotions went haywire. Certain factors went out of control. How can they blame the BJP for that? he asked.

Also read: 'They are dangerous': Mamata Banerjee slams BJP over Karnataka election, Manipur violence

Located in Chandel district, Pallel serves as an ideal place for such relief camps, said an army officer, requesting anonymity. However, we dont want the Kukis and the Meiteis to face each other immediately. Thats why we have decided to keep them in separate accommodations, he added.

The army also evacuated 89 high school students of Manipuri origin from Nagaland and brought them to the Minuthong transit camp on the outskirts of Imphal town. They were brought from Kakching district and will be sent back to Dimapur tonight, Singh said.

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Several towns in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh recorded snowfall on Monday, plunging these regions into an unusual cold spell in the summer month of May at a time when a spate of other rare weather occurrences are being recorded across the country. Snow-covered mountains in Lahaul & Spiti. (PTI)

Data analysed by HT showed that the average temperatures recorded in the three Himalayan states and UTs of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir were among the lowest since 1951 and, as a result, the northern plains were also recording cooler-than-usual temperatures.

Behind the trend is a series of rain-bearing western disturbances, experts said. The active western disturbance in the past 10 days has brought lot of rain, snow and hail in the north-western Himalaya region, said RK Jenamani, an India Meteorological Department (IMD) scientist based in Delhi.

Snow is not uncommon in the higher reaches of the Himalayan ranges in May, but what is unusual is how frequently it has snowed in towns at lower altitudes, including Manali and Gulmarg on Monday.

The weather does not look like that of May, said Jagdish Chauhan, who owns an apple orchard in Manali, which received fresh snowfall on Monday. I am wearing full winter clothes and room heating (wood-based) has been reinstalled. The only difference is water has not frozen, he said, adding that he had not seen such a cold May in decades.

IMD data appeared to bear this out. The records of rain and snow since 1901 showed that the northern hill provinces  Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal and Uttarakhand  were witnessing one of the coldest and wettest first weeks of May since 1951.

The average maximum temperature was 8-10C lower than the 1981-2010 average, which is considered the normal, and the average minimum temperature was the lowest in Himachal and Uttarakhand since at least 1951.

Similarly, rainfall (or possibly snowfall in higher reaches) in the first week of May has been among the top 10 since 1951 for all these states and UTs except Ladakh, which has a 38% deficit compared to the 1961-2010 average.

Rain or snow in the other three regions is 2.6 to 3.2 times of the 1961-2010 average, the analysis shows.

Jammu & Kashmir has received 53.6mm of rain in first week of May, the highest for any Himalayan province this year, and, not unexpectedly, was one of the three coldest places in India in the first week of May, along with Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

The trend matches with what has happened in the northern plains, where maximum temperatures have been as much as 15C lower than what is normal for this time of the year, when the days highs usually breach 40C. This comes after a 2022 when much of the country virtually skipped the spring season and began recorded summer-like temperatures in mid-March.

Experts said that while some of this was expected in a year with El Nino conditions  a particular warming of the eastern pacific that influences weather patterns worldwide  the trends seems to be more concerning than usual and come at a time when the climate crisis is predicted to lead to more such unusual weather.

In some years this happens. Increase in frequency of large scale western disturbances (WDs) which even penetrate to lower latitudes is a typical symptom of an evolving El Nino. [But] snowfall in May is not good. By now WDs should have moved to northern latitudes, said M Rajeevan, former secretary, ministry of Earth sciences and climate scientist.

This pattern, if it persists, can affect monsoon onset. WDs should have moved to north of Kashmir by now, he added.

The IMD Srinagar office on Monday said Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Qazigund areas of the Kashmir valley received snow early on Monday morning. The day temperature in the state dropped by 12C compared to normal, although the IMD predicted next four days to be warmer.

Eight tourists were rescued by police when their vehicle got stuck in snow near Jawahar Tunnel in Qazigund on Monday morning.

There were avalanches at numerous locations along the Zoji La axis and the Indian Army along with Jammu & Kashmir Police (JKP) and General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) launched a joint operation to rescue stranded tourists on Monday.

IMD Srinagars deputy director, Mukhtar Ahmad, said that higher reaches in the state have received snow even in June  the latest being on June 12, 2019  but independent weather watcher Faizan Arif pointed out that this year even the plains received snow, which, he said, is rare.

In Himachal, mid and lower hills continued to receive sporadic snow even as higher reaches have received up to 9 cm of snow on Monday, IMD said.

Gondla in Lahaul-Spiti district received 9cm of snowfall and Keylong got 4cm of snow and the minimum temperature was -1.5 degree Celsius, making it the coldest place in the state. Another spell of rain and snow is expected in the state on May 13.

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In the first engagement of its kind, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan met Indian NSA Ajit Doval along with Saudi Arabia crown prince and prime minister Mohammed bin Salman and United Arab Emirates (UAE) NSA Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, the White House said. US NSA Jake Sullivan met his Indian counterpart, Ajit Doval, on Sunday. (ANI)

Also read: NSA Doval to raise London HC violence with UK counterpart

The four met to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world, the White House said in a statement.

The meeting represents an unprecedented intensification of India-US engagement on West Asia with other regional partners at the highest echelons of the national security domain. It comes in the backdrop of significant regional developments. These include the Abraham Accords, where Israel and a set of its neighbours have moved towards a relationship of diplomatic normalcy; intensified backchannel communication between Saudi Arabia and Israel; India, Israel, the US, and the UAE becoming a part of an informal grouping called I2U2; and a recent Beijing-facilitated diplomatic breakthrough between Saudi Arabia and Iran that indicated a significant escalation of the Chinese diplomatic footprint in the region.

In its statement on Sunday, the White House also said Sullivan had met Doval separately to discuss bilateral and regional matters. Sullivan looked forward to further consulting with Mr. Doval on the margins of the Quad Summit later this month in Australia.

Delivering a speech at the Washington Institute of Near East Policy last week before departing for Saudi Arabia, Sullivan had said the US vision for the Middle East rested on five pillars  partnerships, deterrence, diplomacy and de-escalation, integration, and values.

While discussing partnerships, Sullivan said the US had worked to deepen the Abraham Accords and forge new coalitions such as I2U2, which I cant decide is a great acronym or terrible acronym, but it certainly can be memorable. If you remember nothing else from my speech, remember I2U2, because you will be hearing more about it as we go forward.

The US NSA said the fundamental notion behind the partnership was to connect South Asia to the Middle East to the United States in ways that advance our economic technology and diplomacy. And we have already got a number of projects underway and some new exciting steps that we are looking forward to undertaking in the months ahead, he said.

Giving a preview of his visit to Saudi Arabia, Sullivan said the aim of his meetings was to discuss new areas of cooperation between New Delhi and the Gulf as well as the United States and the rest of the region, fueled in part by the comprehensive economic partnership signed last year between India and the UAE. And this can help us carry forward some very tangible initiatives that we think will be unlike anything that we have seen in the region in recent years.

Axios, an American digital news outlet, reported that the four countries had planned to discuss a major joint infrastructure project to connect Gulf and Arab countries via a network of railways that would also be connected to India via shipping lanes from ports in the region. HT could not independently verify the claim.

Also read: NSA Ajit Doval meets Saudi Prince to 'rein in' Chinese footprints in region

Sullivan and Doval will end up meeting four times in the first six months of this year. The two top officials, who have a reputation of enjoying the confidence of their principal leaders, had unveiled the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (ICET) in Washington DC at the end of January.

Besides their meeting over the weekend and scheduled engagement in two weeks in Australia, they will also meet when Prime Minister Narendra Modi travels to the US for a state visit in the third week of June. Key deliverables of the visit may revolve around ICET, including possible collaboration in the arenas of semiconductor manufacturing, defence innovation and co-production, and space.

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Mr Winston Churchill, Prime Minister, in his Victory broadcast today revealed that the German unconditional surrender of all land, sea and air forces to the Allies will be ratified in Berlin today, and that hostilities will end finally at one minute after midnight tonight (6-31 a.m. I.S.T.) Cease fire, he said, was sounded yesterday all along the front. HT This Day: May 9, 1945 -- Cease fire in Europe

The ratification will be signed by Air Chief Marshal Tedder, Deputy Supreme Commander, Gen. de Latyre Tassigny on behalf of France, Marshal Zhukov on behalf of the Soviet Union, and General Keitel, Chief of the German High Command.

Mr Churchill said that the German plenipotentiaries unconditionally surrendered all German land, sea and air forces to the Allies at 2-41 p.m. yesterday.

Mr Churchill added that the Channel Islands would also be freed today.

The Germans are still resisting Russian troops in places, he said, but if they continue to do so, they will deprive themselves of the protection of the laws of war.

The following is the full text of Mr Churchills speech. He said: Yesterday morning at 2-41 at General Eisenhowers headquarters, General Jodl, representative of the German High Command, and Grand Admiral Doenitz, designated head of the German State, signed the act of unconditional surrender of all German land, sea and air forces in Europe to the Allied Expeditionary Force, and simultaneously to the Soviet High Command.

General Beddell Smith, Chief of Staff, United States Army, and General Francois Sevenz signed the document on behalf of the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, and General Suslapatov signed on behalf of the Russian High Command.

This agreement will be ratified and confirmed at Berlin where Air Chief Marshal Tedder, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, and General Tassigny will sign on behalf of General Eisenhower. General Zhukov will sign on behalf of the Soviet High Command. The German representatives will be Field-Marshal Keitel, Chief of the German High Command, and the Commanders-in-Chief of the German Army, Navy and Air Force.

Hostilities will end officially at one minute after midnight tonight but in the interests of saving lives cease fire began yesterday and was sounded all along the front.

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Our dear Channel islands are to be freed today.

The Germans are still in places resisting Russian troops but should they continue to do so after midnight they will, of course, deprive themselves of the protection of the laws of war, and will be attacked from all quarters by Allied troops. It is not surprising that on such long fronts and in the existing disorder of the enemy, the commands of the German High Command should not in every case be obeyed immediately. This does not, in our opinion with the best military advice at our disposal, constitute any reason for withholding from the nation the facts communicated to us by General Eisenhower of the unconditional surrender already signed at Rheims nor should it prevent us from celebrating today and tomorrow as Victory-in-Europe days. 

Today perhaps we shall think mostly of ourselves. Tomorrow we shall pay particular tribute to our Russian comrades whose prowess in the field has been one of grand contributions to the general victory.

The German war is therefore at an end.

After years of intense preparation Germany hurled herself on Poland at the beginning of September 1939 and in pursuance of our guarantee, to Poland, and in agreement with the French Republic, Great Britain, the British Empire and the Commonwealth of Nations declared war upon this foul aggression.

After gallant France had been struck down we from this island, and from our united empire, maintained the struggle single-handed for a whole year until we were joined by the military might of Soviet Russia and later by the overwhelming power and resources of the United States of America.

SPLENDID ALLIES

Finally almost the whole world was combined against the evil-doers where now prostrate before us. Our gratitude to our splendid allies goes forth from all our heart in this island and throughout the British Empire.

We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing but let us not forget for a moment the toil and efforts that lie ahead.

Japan, with all her treachery and greed, remains unsubdued. The injury she has inflicted on Great Britain, the United States and other countries, and her detestable cruelties call for justice and retribution.

We must now devote all our strength and resources to the completion of our task both at home and abroad. Advance Britannia. Long live the cause of freedom. God save the King.

Mr Churchills message was followed immediately by the ceremonial sounding of the end of war in Europe by buglers of the Cots Guards.
Violent clashes between political party workers in Bengaluru and Dakshina Kannada have marred the run-up to the high-stakes assembly elections in Karnataka. Violent clashes between political party workers in Bengaluru and Dakshina Kannada have marred the run-up to the elections (Agencies)

In Bengaluru, workers from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress clashed in the Madiwala area of the BTM Layout constituency on Sunday evening, police said.

The altercation resulted in serious injuries to a BJP worker named Harinath, who is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the city. BJP workers have accused Congress workers, including former Bengaluru mayor Manjunath Reddy and his son, of attacking Harinath during their campaign for the upcoming polls.

BJP leader and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya visited the Madiwala Police Station on Monday and demanded action against the accused. He claimed that two years back, a similar attempt was made against the victim, Harinath.

I am at Madiwala Police Station now along with Harinaths daughter. Two years ago, when a similar attempt on his life was made, FIR was filed. Guess what the BTM Layout police did? Arrest the victim Harinath himself! 7 hours after the registration of FIR, no action, no arrest, Surya tweeted.

In another incident, BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) or JD (S) party workers clashed at Attur Layout near Yelahanka on Sunday when both sides were campaigning in the same locality, police said.

The BJP workers allegedly attacked and thrashed JD(S) workers for interrupting them. At least four JD(S) workers have been admitted to the hospital, while one worker sustained serious injuries and getting treated at Jayadeva Hospital in the city, police said.

In Yeshwantpur, the police registered an FIR against former BJP corporator Venkatesh G K and ten others for assaulting Congress workers during their door-to-door campaign on Saturday. The police acted on a complaint filed by Congress worker Chandrappa Jigale from Laggere, who alleged that Venkatesh and other party workers abused and assaulted them during the campaign. Jigale also claimed that his two mobile phones and a gold chain were snatched during the altercation.

In Dakshina Kannada district, a window of a car belonging to a BJP worker was smashed during an altercation between Congress and BJP workers at Belthangady on April 18. The incident occurred when Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja and Congress candidate Rakshit Shivaram reached the tehsildars office simultaneously to file their nomination papers. The two party workers got into an argument while passing through the Santhekatte locality, resulting in damage to the car window. The BJP workers later staged a protest and demanded action against Congress workers.

Police said it registered a complaint against BJP workers while a counter complaint was registered against Congress workers.

The police registered two separate cases under IPC section 147 (unlawful assembly, guilty of riot) 148 (riot with a deadly weapon) 341 (wrongful restraint) 343 (wrongful confine) 447 (criminal trespass) 504 (intentional insult) 506 (threatening to life).
The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri said he is considering filing a defamation case against West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee after the latter on Monday alleged that the controversial film was made to humiliate one section of the society, whereas 'The Kerala Story' was a distorted movie aimed at defaming the southern state. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and The Kashmir Files director Vivek Agnihotri.

Banerjee also ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial film 'The Kerala Story' in the state to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, a senior state government official said.

"What is 'The Kashmir Files'? It is to humiliate one section. What is 'The Kerala Story'?... It is a distorted story," Banerjee said at a press briefing in the state secretariat in Howrah.

BJP is showing The Kerala Story, a distorted story. A few days back, some stars funded by BJP came to Bengal, and with some distorted and concocted story, they are preparing Bengal Files, said the Trinamool Congress supremo.

Reacting to her statement, Agnihotri tweeted, VERY IMPORTANT: In this video, I guess, @MamataOfficial didi is talking about me. Yes, I came to Bengal to interview survivors of Direct Action Day genocide instigated by Khilafat. And the role of Gopal Patha. Why are you scared? #TheKashmirFiles was about Genocide and terrorism. On what basis do you think it was to defame Kashmiri people? On what basis do you say so maliciously that it is funded by a political party? Why shouldnt I file a defamation case and a case of Genocide Denial against you? Btw, the film is called #TheDelhiFiles not Bengal Files. And nobody can silence me."

Responding to a comment, the filmmaker tweeted, I am seriously considering it (to file defamation case).

West Bengal became the first state to ban the film, an action which Union minister Anurag Thakur said was beyond his understanding why the Trinamool Congress(TMC) chief's sympathies were with terror organisations and not with the innocent girls from Kerala. Thakur also watched the film at a cinema hall in Delhi.

The film's producer Vipul Shah said they will take legal action against the ban imposed by the TMC government.

"To avoid any incident of hatred and violence and to maintain peace in the state, the CM has directed an immediate ban on screening of 'The Kerala Story'. Action will be taken against any cinema hall that violates the ban," a West Bengal government official told news agency PTI.

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KOLKATA: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said her government will ban the controversial film The Kerala Story, insisting that the movie put out a distorted story. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) promptly condemned the Trinamool Congress (TMC) governments move, saying it was a communal step. The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government said the ban on The Kerala Story was being imposed to maintain peace and harmony in the state (ANI)

In a statement that was issued after Banerjees announcement, the West Bengal government said the ban was imposed to maintain peace and harmony in the state. It is apprehended that the scenes in the movie can prove dangerous for the maintenance of law and order and thus screening of the film is banned in Kolkata and in all districts. The state administration has taken this decision to maintain peace and discipline, the government statement said.

Banerjee said The Kerala Story, like the Kashmir Files, was aimed at hitting out at one community. What was this Kashmir Files? It was to humiliate one section. What is this Kerala Story? I dont support CPI-M. But I am sorry to say that the CPI-M is working with the BJP.... That BJP is sowing the Kerala Story  a distorted story, she told reporters.

The Kerala Story has triggered protests for allegedly showing women in Kerala being forcibly converted to Islam and made to join the Islamic State. A trailer of the film released earlier claimed that over 32,000 women from Kerala were converted, radicalised and recruited to IS. The film producer, however, told the high court that the claim will be removed from the movies teaser and social media posts.

The film has been cited by BJP leaders during their election speeches in Karnataka. PM Modi on Friday told a rally in Bellary that the film was based on a terror conspiracy and that it shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists design. The Congress is opposing the film made on terrorism and standing with terror tendencies, he said.

Bengal BJP leader Rahul Sinha said: This is totally a communal step and an infringement on the freedom of art and cinema. She did the same thing earlier too when Kashmir Files was released. The film, however, was shown smoothly in theatres without any hassle. Even today she has spoken out against the Kashmir Files. This is nothing but a step to incite communal sentiments.

CPI-M lawmaker Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya also criticised Bengals decision to ban the movie, saying it was better to counter the film rather than ban it. He underlined that Kerala hadnt banned the movie. This is an autocratic decision It is better to place opposing views against a movie Kerala hasnt banned the movie, Bhattacharya told reporters.
by David J. Lobina

For someone who grew up in the South of Europe but has lived in the UK for the last 20 or so years, and who, moreover, is a sort-of linguist, the recent proliferation of the word fascism to refer to certain political events and tendencies in the English-speaking world, especially in the US, is not a little surprising. After all, the people we used to refer to as fascists when I was growing up in Italy and Spain certainly bore a resemblance to classical fascism  some were the descendants of actual fascists, in fact  whereas the guys who get called fascist all the time these days, especially in the US, are nothing like them. And in any case, it was the 1990s then and it is 2023 now, is the term fascism still relevant today?[i]

Who were these fascists from my youth, then? If you lived in Italy or Spain in the 1990s and were politically active, you would most certainly run into them sooner or later and there were a couple of dates in the calendar that you needed to look out for, as neo-fascists, to employ a perhaps more appropriate nomenclature, tended to come out to commemorate events such as the so-called March on Rome, on the 27th of October, in Italy, and Francisco Francos death, on the 20th of November, in Spain.[ii]

As mentioned, some of these people were the descendants of real fascists, and this is perhaps clearest in the case of the Movimento Sociale Italiano, or MSI (The Italian Social Movement), a political party founded in 1946 by veterans from the so-called Republic of Salo  more properly, the Repubblica Sociale Italiana (The Italian Social Republic), a Nazi puppet state nominally led by Benito Mussolini in his nadir days  and which, in 1994, and under the name of Alleanza Nazionale (The National Alliance), entered the government of Silvio Berlusconi, the business magnate turned politician.[iii] This is to some extent also true of the many offshoots of the original Falange Espanola (The Spanish Falange), a party that was founded in the 1930s on the model of Mussolinis Partito Nazionale Fascista (the National Fascist Party), the latter created in 1921. In its latest iteration, the Falange goes by the name of the Falange Espanola de las JONS.[iv]

The modern versions of these organisations, however, differ greatly from classical fascism, by which I mean Italian fascism from 1922 to 1943 (roughly), as well as from each other, and these differences become a chasm when it comes to US politics. And yet seemingly every other week there is an article out there about how the Republican Party is becoming a fascist party, or about how Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, or Ron DeSantis are all fascists.

Robert Reich, a professor of public policy and a veteran of various Democratic administrations, and Jason Stanley, a philosopher turned political commentator, are probably the worst culprits in this sense (see here, here, and here, for a sample; Richard J. Evans, an actual expert, offers some respite from this and I will make similar points below).

Some of the articles I have just referenced take the analogy with classical fascism a little bit too literally, I think, and this is often based on rather crude correspondences. Umberto Ecos article on so-called eternal fascism (Ur-fascism, as he called it; lets put to one side the reasonableness or relevance of such a concept to begin with), is often cited when discussing the main characteristics of fascism in order to then draw the relevant parallels, but this piece may not be the best guide for such purposes. Apart from the fact that Eco was writing in the aftermath of the National Alliances success in the 1994 general election and he explicitly states that classical fascism is not coming back (this context needs to be taken into account when evaluating the article), it needs to be emphasised that Eco was focused on the ways of thinking and feeling of fascists, their linguistic habits, as he puts it at one point, and the end-result may not be particularly helpful. Though Eco outlines 14 characteristics of eternal fascism  such as the cult of tradition, rejection of modernism, the cult of action, etc.  he somewhat bizarrely argues that the presence of one of these may be enough to allow fascism to coagulate around it, an argument that is hard to square with how most people apply Ecos list of features (I also think Ecos list is more a reflection of the kind of intellectual that he was than an accurate description of fascism per se, but this is by the by now).

In any case, some of the exalted speech one finds in political commentators sometimes gives rise to a few absurdities; as a case in point, the philosopher Robert Paul Wolff last year mused in his blog about what it must have been like in Germany, Italy, and Spain in the 1930s while contemplating the erosion of democracy in the US, and this is not a little preposterous on the face of it. It is not unprecedented, however, for the words fascism and fascist have always been misused, especially when it comes to using these terms as an insult  Antonio Gramsci and other communists in 1920s Italy used to call socialists semi-fascists. I certainly remember realising, as I became an adult, that there was a distinction to be had between the words fascist and neo-fascist, and a meaningful one at that. Interestingly, the term neo-Nazi was much more in use than Nazi where I grew up, and one just didnt call anyone simply a Nazi, in fact, as it seemed to have been pretty obvious to anyone than calling a skinhead a Nazi was quite ridiculous.

This is, in part, a matter of how language use changes in time, of how the meaning of words change through usage and convention, and a relevant issue here is the differences in use, interpretation, and nuance across languages and cultures as well, a clearly relevant factor when it comes to the contrast I shall identify between Italian and English. Having said that, I also happen to think that the Oxford English Dictionary has it more or less right at present.

According to the OED, and the equivalent Italian dictionary, the Treccani, the first term to have entered normal linguistic usage was fascist (fascista in Italian) rather than fascism, from the word fascio, which in turn comes from the Latin for bundle (a fascis in Ancient Rome was a bundle of rods bound up with an axe in the middle; it became one of the symbols of Italian fascism, but before then of the American and French revolutions). In the early 20th century, the word fascista referred to a political group, the first such use in relation to a workers league from Sicily  that is, to a socialist movement.

Still, the first sense of the word fascist in the OED is in reference to Mussolinis National Fascist Party, and the same goes for the term fascism, these usages now marked as historical. The second meaning of fascist/fascism in the OED refers, in a generic sense, to a member of a political organisation advocating for fascism, and this includes the movements Italian fascism influenced in the 1920s and 1930s, most notably Nazism in Germany. The OED gives an extended description of this second meaning, defining fascism as an anti-communist and ultra-nationalist movement, usually espousing ethnocentric ideas of racial superiority (from the beginning, in the case of Nazism, but gradually for Italian fascism), and typically forming totalitarian dictatorships with a charismatic leader at the heart of it all.

That is fine as far as it goes.[v] I do wish to point out a third meaning of the word fascist as a noun/adjective in the OED, though; namely, and in an extended and depreciative use, as autocratic, intolerant, or oppressive, especially to enforce conformity. I would say that this is how most lay people use the word fascist, not only now, but in the most recent past, and though it is not a usage I would employ myself, it is part of linguistic use and clearly a valid one (I would say that such use ought to be more circumspect and qualified than it usually is).

What I do contend, as alluded to earlier, is the identification of current political movements that are more appropriately described as authoritarian far-right, or in the case of American politics, radical conservative  far-right 2.0, as the Italian commentator Steven Forti argues in this book apparently written in Spanish  with the fascism of the 1920-40s, and especially with Italian fascism, as the resemblance is rather superficial at best, if not quite misleading, and most probably unhelpful, anyway. It is here that the differences between Italian and English uses of the word are more noticeable.

It is noteworthy, in fact, that the Treccani dictionary doesnt really mention any of the extended uses of the word fascismo that the OED includes, instead focusing on the Italian experience of the 1920-40s. This is also true of the historical dictionary the Treccani institute keeps, as well as the entry on fascism from a book edited by Umberto Eco on the history of European civilisation (the entry written by Elena Papadia). That is, in every case fascism is taken to be an intrinsically Italian phenomenon of the post First World War era. This is certainly in line with Italian scholarship on the matter, most notably in the works of Renzo De Felice and one of his students, the already mentioned Emilio Gentile.

Before getting to that, however, and as a way to showcase the differences in perspective between the English-speaking and Italian scholarship on fascism, the respective entries on fascism in the English and Italian versions of Wikipedia are quite illustrative. The English version offers a quite general definition of fascism as a far-right, authoritarian and ultra-nationalist ideology and movement, characterised by a strong leader, autocracy, militarism, social hierarchy, and strong regimentation of both society and economy. This entry spends quite a bit of time on definitions, with the usual suspects all present, with the surprising inclusion of Jason Stanley and his (over-)emphasis on the cult of the leader who promises national regeneration and the use of fascists rhetoric, and the entry also includes a discussion of some of the political movements the term may be applied to[vi]. The Italian version, on the other hand, constitutes a rather thorough history of Italian fascism, and if nothing else, it goes some way towards justifying the belief of scholars such as De Felice and Gentile that Italian fascism was a pretty unique and in fact novel phenomenon, and that we should thus frame our understanding of fascism in historical terms above else.

I cant do justice to either De Felice or Gentile here, and this will be far too brief, but here is a sort of summary. First of all, De Felice emphasised the revolutionary rather than reactionary nature of Italian fascism,[vii] especially in its attempts to create a new society and a new man (one reason the Futurists might have been drawn to fascism, actually), thus contrasting it to the more traditional and more reactionary form that Nazism took. De Felice also drew a distinction between fascism as a movement and fascism as a regime, but today he is mostly known for his monumental biography of Mussolini, not without some controversy, however.

Emilio Gentiles works offers a more through and comprehensive account of Italian fascism, and from various many angles to boot (this and this are some of his more accessible books on fascism; this one is a very good conceptual discussion of fascism, whilst this one is probably his magnum opus, as comprehensive a history of fascism as there may be anywhere). To summarise. There are three dimensions to understanding Italian fascism, according to Gentile: the organisational dimension, with the very novel appearance of a militia-party, the violence and terror of these militia (squadrismo) to bring about a regeneration of the nation, with a conscious attempt to appeal to the middle classes above all; the cultural dimension, with its emphasis on the myth of youth, the creation of a new man and a new society, and with an anti-everything outlook (anti-communism, anti-politics, anti-parliamentary democracy, e cosi via); and finally, the institutional dimension, where there was only place for one party, thus requiring the symbiosis of state and regime, the implementation of a police state, a corporativist organisation of the economy, etc. And plenty more, but perhaps this particular summary by Gentile himself will do for now: [viii]

il fascismo e un fenomeno politico moderno, nacionalista e rivoluzionario, antiliberale e antimarxista, organizzato in un partito milizia, con una concezione totalitaria della politica e dello Stato, con una ideologia a fondamento mitico, virilistica e antiedonistica, sacralizzata come religione laica, che afferma il primato assoluto della nazione, intesa come comunita organica etnicamente omogenea, gerarchicamente organizzata in uno Stato corporativo, con una vocazione bellicosa alla politica di grandezza, di potenza e di conquista, mirante alla creazione di un nuovo ordine e di una nuova civilta.

There is indeed plenty more to say about Italian fascism, not least about its history and contradictions, its extreme violence, and the actual movements it spawned worldwide, issues that might deserve another post. Another interesting topic to discuss is the work of the author Antonio Scurati, who has recently published three fascinating novels about the figure of Mussolini, an example of historical fiction that may deserve a post of its own too.

As for my own preference regarding how to use the word fascism, I certainly think that Gentiles work on Italian fascism, and in particular the definition I have just provided here, makes referring to any aspect of American politics as fascist, or even neo- or post-fascist, not a little absurd, difficult to justify, and quite misguided overall. I personally only use the word fascism for 1920-40s Italian fascism (maybe as Fascism?), as I also see very little value in employing this term to far closer movements to fascism, such as Nazism, falangism or francoist (let alone any other, more modern examples from Europe), given that there are as many points of convergence among these movements as there are discrepancies and glaring differences. There are plenty of authoritarian movements in the world today and some of the challenges and dangers are considerate, but they are clearly not fascist. More to the point, I fail to understand why some people insist upon these analogies, and I dont see the analytical value in drawing them at all. But maybe its just my native languages speaking.

[i] As was the case when I wrote about Catalan nationalism (here and here), I will for the most part employ sources that are not in English in this piece (in this case, mostly in Italian); I will also adopt an Italian viewpoint on the matter, with the view to highlight some of the cultural and linguistic differences between English-speaking and Italian commentators on the phenomenon of fascism.

[ii] I say the so-called March on Rome because Italian scholarship on the matter, especially the work of Emilio Gentile, whom I shall be quoting quite a bit here, has it that this event from 1922 wasnt much of an uprising and the turning point for Mussolini and the fascists involved more threat and background political machinations than a massive revolt. Francisco Franco ruled Spain as dictator from 1939 until his death on the 20th of November of 1975.

[iii] The National Alliance was reconceptualised as a more traditional conservative party in an attempt to shed much of its earlier neo-fascist skin (at least on paper; it used to be called a post-fascist party), and thus becoming more in tune with the anti-fascist character of the Italian constitution of 1948, which prohibits the reorganisation of the fascist party under any name. The Berlusconi government from 1994 was the result of a coalition that also included a secessionist party from the North of Italy, called Lega Nord (the Northern League), though it has since been rebranded as simply Lega (but not officially). The Lega is in another government at present, this time in coalition with Giorgia Melonis Fratelli dItalia (Brothers of Italy, the name is a reference to the opening line of the Italian anthem), an offshoot of the National Alliance after various splits and mergers (it is worth noting that Meloni was a member of the youth wing of the old MSI; if anyone may be said to have some proper fascist roots these days, she might be the best candidate).

[iv] Or in the full version of its name: The Falange Espanola de las Juntas de Ofensiva Nacional Sindicalista (Falange de las JONS; that is, the Spanish Phalanx of the Councils of the National Syndicalist Offensive). The original Falange was first led by Jose Antonio Primo de Rivera, who certainly wanted it to have a clear fascist outlook. After his death in 1936, the party was taken over by Franco and his loyalists, and in addition to various mergers and splits, the Movimento Nacional, as it was known during Francos dictatorship, was more francoist than fascist, not least because of its ultra-Catholicism, a feature quite extraneous to fascism.

[v] It could have been worse, I guess. This particular article has it that Christian nationalism is one of the three markers of European fascism, which would disqualify Italian fascism and Nazism.

[vi] The entry on the Britannica website is similar but proves to be far too expansive in what it regards as relevant to fascism, even discussing Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro, which surely are more right-wing populists than they are fascists in any way.

[vii] Italian communists at the time saw fascism as entirely reactionary, but this is possibly on account of their world-historical views at the time, which included the coming revolution. In addition, everyone was a fascist or semi-fascist for the communists, including well-known figures of Italian socialism who were to fight Mussolinis fascists on the ground, some of them losing their lives in the process.

[viii] As per Google Translate: fascism is a modern political phenomenon, nationalistic and revolutionary, anti-liberal and anti-Marxist, organized in a militia party, with a totalitarian conception of politics and the state, with a mythical, virilistic and anti-hedonistic ideology, consecrated as a secular religion, which affirms the absolute primacy of the nation, understood as an ethnically homogeneous organic community, hierarchically organized in a corporate state, with a warlike vocation for the politics of greatness, power and conquest, aimed at the creation of a new order and a new civilization.
The farmers from the Bharatiya Kisan Union on Monday reached Jantar Mantar where the wrestlers have been protesting since April 23 against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Bharatiya Kisan Union members at Jantar Mantar on Monday..(Vipin Kumar/HT Photo)

The video shared by news agency ANI showed the BKU members breaking the barricades and trying to reach the protest venue.

A group of farmers were escorted to Jantar Mantar . At entry barricades they were in a hurry to reach the dharna site in which some of them climbed the barricades which fell down & were removed by them. Police team kept the barricades at the back aside to facilitate their entry, DCP New Delhi Pranav Tayal said.



The protestors have reached the dharna site and the meeting is going on peacefully, the senior police official said.

This comes a day after the activists of BKU (Ekta Ugrahan) including women, had organised a protest at the Tikri border after they were stopped by the police from entering the national capital. However, they had broken the barricades and entered the capital.



The Delhi Police deployed over 2,000 personnel on Sunday amid the farmers' march to Jantar Mantar to join the protesting wrestlers. As per the Delhi Police, the people are allowed to enter Delhi in their private vehicles and buses not not by tractor trolleys.

The wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia have been protesting at the Jantar Mantar demanding the arrest of WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and his sacking from the post in wake of sexual harassment allegations against him by women grapplers.



On Sunday, the wrestlers gave a May 21 deadline to the Centre for accepting their demands. At a briefing in the presence of around 2,000 supporters from khaps, farmer and women organisations, wrestlers Sakshi Malik and Vinesh Phogat said they were prepared for a long haul.



In another development, under-fire WFI chief Singh has urged farmer leaders not to make the mistake' and wait for the outcome of the probe, this amid the Samyukta Kisan Morcha extending support to the wrestlers' protest against him.

The BJP MP from Kaiserganj, again claimed he was innocent and alleged that he was targeted as he had brought reforms in the selection process for wrestlers.

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Actor Deepika Padukone arrived back in Mumbai last night. The paparazzi clicked Deepika outside the airport and shared pictures and videos on social media. The star chose a comfy, fashionable look for her jet-set look featuring a denim-on-denim outfit. The star ticked all boxes of comfort fashion with her ensemble, which is also a must-have for every lazy yet stylish girl's wardrobe. Keep scrolling to check out Deepika's pictures. Deepika Padukone wears an oversized denim-on-denim outfit for airport look. (HT Photo/Varinder Chawla)

Deepika Padukone's airport look

A paparazzi page shared a video of Deepika Padukone arriving in the bay with the caption, "Deepika Padukone fulfilled a young fan's wish to click a selfie with her while she arrived back in Mumbai." The clip shows Deepika exiting the Mumbai airport, dressed in a baggy denim-on-denim ensemble. Then, a little kid approaches Deepika for a selfie as she enters her car. She clicks pictures with the boy and then leaves. Deepika's video garnered love from her fans, who called her 'humble' and 'kind'. Watch the video below.

Deepika Padukone wears a denim-on-denim fit at the airport.(HT photo/Varinder Chawla)

Coming to Deepika's airport fit, it features a denim jacket, denim jeans and a classic white tee. While the oversized jacket has a collared neckline, folded long sleeves, drooped shoulders, patch pockets, and an open front, the jeans feature a baggy silhouette and high-rise ankles. She completed the ensemble with a round-neck oversized white tee.

Deepika styled the ensemble with matching blue and white sneakers, statement rings, sleek bracelets, a metal strap watch, black-tinted shades, and a Louis Vuitton saddle bag. In the end, Deepika chose a pulled-back ponytail, nude lips, dewy skin, rosy tint on the cheeks, and darkened brows for the glam picks.

Deepika's outfit is perfect for every lazy girl who loves to look stylish with minimum effort. You will need your trusty denim jacket, a pair of baggy denim jeans, and a white tee to nail her look. A messy bun or open locks, minimal makeup, and some gold jewellery will add the finishing touch.
Bollywood celebrities stepped out in Mumbai last night to attend Volkswagen presents Hindustan Times India's Most Stylish 2023 Awards, co-powered by Ambience Group. The event saw your favourite celebrities walk the red carpet in gorgeous outfits. The guest list included names like Kriti Sanon, Sushmita Sen, Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Shilpa Shetty, Raveena Tandon, Sonam Bajwa, Ananya Panday, Pulkit Samrat and Kriti Kharbanda, Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar, Akshay Kumar, Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal, Aditi Rao Hydari, Babil Kham, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Daisy Shah, Kapil Sharma, and others. Below we have shortlisted some of our favourite looks of the night. Check out who wore what. Kriti Sanon, Sushmita Sen, Janhvi Kapoor and Sonam Bajwa stun at HT India's Most Stylish 2023.

Who wore what to Hindustan Times India's Most Stylish 2023

Kriti Sanon

Kriti Sanon was one of the best-dressed celebrities of the night, as she arrived in a black semi-sheer gown. The ensemble featured a high neckline, full-length sleeves, gathered silhouette, a figure-skimming fitting accentuating her svelte frame, see-through details on the sleeves, neckline, waist and legs, and a floor-grazing hem length. She wore the stellar dress with a chunky structured bracelet, black pointed pumps, side-parted open locks, minimal makeup, bold smoky eye shadow, winged eyeliner, and glowing rouged skin.

Sushmita Sen

Sushmita Sen arrived at Hindustan Times India's Most Stylish 2023 awards in a midnight blue velvet powersuit. The star went shirtless with her boss-babe avatar in the suit set featuring a notch-lapel blazer and flared pants. She styled the ensemble with a sleek body chain, strappy pumps, statement rings, lightly-tousled back-sept open locks, and striking makeup.

Sonam Bajwa

Sonam Bajwa secured the top spot in our best-dressed celebrities list from last night, dressed in a Syndical Chamber 3D-printed went dress that hugged her frame seamlessly. The ensemble features cut-outs on the neckline, a figure-hugging silhouette, a long train, and tassel ties on the back. She styled the gorgeous turquoise outfit with curled open locks, high heel nude pumps, minimal jewellery, glowing skin, rosy lips, rouged cheeks, and subtle eye makeup.

Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor made heads turn at the HT India's Most Stylish Awards in a strapless black gown featuring a corseted bust, gathered design on the torso, a figure-hugging fitting, a long train, and metallic detailing all over. She styled it with silver bracelets, rings, matching block heels, a centre-parted sleek ponytail, pink lips, and dewy minimal makeup.

Rakul Preet Singh

Rakul Preet Singh made heads turn at HT India's Most Stylish Awards in coordinated black separates featuring a cropped blouse and a figure-hugging skirt adorned in shimmering silver diamantes and an asymmetric hem. She styled the ensemble with block heels, a sleek braided hairdo, and minimal makeup.

Ananya Panday

Ananya Panday chose the trending hot pink look for HT India's Most Stylish Awards 2023. She wore an asymmetrical blazer dress featuring a V neckline, padded shoulders, pulled-up long sleeves, a gathered design on the front, and a mini silhouette. Hot pink sheer stockings, matching high heels, a golden-coloured luxurious bag, shimmering hoops, a gold chain-link bracelet, rings, a side-parted sleek bun, and minimal makeup added a layer of oomph to the outfit.

Shilpa Shetty

Shilpa Shetty arrived at HT India's Most Stylish 2023 Awards dressed in a monochrome ensemble. She wore a black and white striped crop blouse and a figure-hugging skirt with a long train. An open hairdo, gold statement neckpiece, matching bracelets, high heels, plum lip shade, sleek eyeliner, and glowing skin gave the finishing touch.
Bollywood actor Sonam Kapoor was among a long list of celebrities who attended King Charles III's Coronation Concert. After the coronation ceremony, King Charles and Queen Camilla's Coronation Concert took place at Windsor Castle on the East Lawn of the castle's grounds. Sonam gave a spoken word performance introducing Steve Winwood and the Commonwealth virtual choir at the event. For the occasion, she chose a floor-length printed gown designed by two of her favourite designers - Anamika Khanna and Emilia Wickstead - from the two countries - India and the UK - she calls home. Sonam Kapoor attended King Charles III's Coronation Concert in a printed gown. (Instagram)

Sonam Kapoor at King Charles III's Coronation Concert

On Sunday, Sonam Kapoor attended King Charles' Coronation Concert and shared pictures of the bespoke ensemble she wore. "Historic moments call for fashion moments. I'm honoured to mark the unforgettable occasion of the #CoronationConcert by wearing the collaborative vision of two of the most incredible designers from the two countries I'm lucky to call home," she captioned the post. She chose a printed off-white floor-length gown for the Coronation Concert, co-designed by Anamika Khanna and New Zealand-born UK-based designer Emilia Wickstead. Check out the pictures below.

Sonam's bespoke floor-length gown features an off-the-shoulder neckline flaunting her decolletage, a band detail around the shoulders that framed the corseted bodice, extending into a full skirt lined with architectural godet pleats, a cinched waistline, and a floor-length hem.

According to Vogue, Emilia Wickstead designed the gown, and Anamika Khanna contributed the Calico-inspired print to give the ensemble a perfect finish to shine at the Coronation Concert. Additionally, Anamika Khanna took inspiration from the 17th and 18th-century Calico prints which were a commodity commonly traded between India and the UK in the yesteryears.

Meanwhile, Sonam accessorised the floor-length gown with dainty earrings, a statement ring, and high heels. In the end, Sonam chose side-parted wavy open locks, subtle smoky eye shadow, darkened brows, mascara on the lashes, rouged cheeks, glossy blush lip shade, light contouring, dewy base, and beaming highlighter.
Private airline Myanmar Airways International (MAI) has commenced direct non-stop flights between Chennai and Yangon, boosting connectivity between the two countries, the airliner said on Sunday. An Embraer E190LR aircraft with a seating capacity of 98 seats -- six in business class and 92 in economy -- would be operated between the two cities. Chennai is the latest city to be served by MAI after Delhi, Kolkata and Gaya. On its arrival at Chennai airport on Saturday, the maiden flight was welcomed with a traditional water salute by officials of the Airports Authority of India, among others, a press release said. Myanmar Airways International launches direct flights between Chennai and Yangon to boost connectivity with India (File Photo / REUTERS)

The launch of new flights in 2023 also marks 75 years of cordial ties between India and Myanmar, it said.

Nearly 48 passengers arrived in Chennai from Yangon while 70 passengers travelled from Chennai to Yangon on the inaugural flight. Honorary consul of Myanmar Professor Ranganathan J along with Chennai Airport Director S S Raju formally inaugurated the launch of the service by lighting a traditional lamp at the international departure terminal in the city. With the launch of non-stop flights of Myanmar Airways International, travellers from Chennai can easily visit tourist destinations in the neighbouring country including Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Ngapali Beach among others.

The new flight connection is aimed at mutually benefiting and improving trade as well as the health and leisure tourism sectors of both countries. The flights will be operated every Saturday and the aircraft will depart from Yangon at 8 AM local time and arrive in Chennai at 10.15 AM. In the return direction, the flight from Chennai will leave at 11.15 AM and arrive in Yangon at 3.15 PM. Myanmar Airways International currently operates in 18 international destinations and 18 domestic destinations and has seamless interline arrangements with 34 carriers, a company release said. Myanmar Airlines International is represented by the STIC Travel Group in the country.
As we celebrate Europe Day on May 9, we can look back with satisfaction at the great strides made by the strategic partnership between the European Union (EU) and India over the years. The EU and India are plural and diverse societies. We believe in a cooperative approach to international relations, upholding the values and principles of the United Nations (UN) charter. This is particularly important now, as we are facing growing global uncertainty, in the wake of the unprovoked and unjustified Russian aggression against Ukraine. In an increasingly erratic world scenario, it is more important than ever that the EU and India work together, bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, such as the G20 (HT)

Based on our common belief in the rules-based system of international governance, the EU and India are working together to address global challenges, such as climate change or the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Indias G20 presidency offers a great opportunity to provide leadership in these difficult times and the EU supports Indias ambitious objectives.

We need to scale up global ambitions against climate change if we want to keep the worlds temperature increase below 1.5 degrees. We can still make it; but we need renewed focus and commitment. The international community collectively needs to accelerate transformative change. The EU has adopted the objective to become climate neutral by 2050. Indias massive investments in renewables can be a game-changer. Together, we can join forces in making our economies more energy efficient and resilient and our energy supply renewable and reliable.

The development of the digital economy is another field of cooperation, offering great opportunities, where the EU and India face similar challenges. We must ensure that the digital transition takes place in full respect with individual rights and freedoms, consistent with our open societies and democratic systems. Global challenges require coordinated responses by like-minded partners. It is in this spirit that the recently created Trade and Technology Council will focus on key issues of shared strategic importance, including trade, trusted technology and resilient supply chains. The first ministerial edition is to be held before this summer.

The EU, as a bloc, is one of Indias largest trading partners and a principal investor. Substantial Indian investment is also flowing towards Europe. Last year, we re-launched negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), for an Investment Protection Agreement and an Agreement on Geographical Indications. Both sides realise that an FTA would significantly contribute to unleash the full potential of our economic relations. It is against this background that the fifth round of talks will take place in Delhi next month.

Science underpins progress, be it in the fight against climate change or the digital transition. Around 70.000 Indian students are studying in the EU, while Indian and European researchers work together in innovative ventures, within the Horizon or Marie Curie Sklodowska Actions. We also share the same vision of a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, underpinned by respect for international law. The EU is a major stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific and we are engaging with India for a stable and prosperous region.

We shall use the full panoply of instruments available, such as Global Gateway. With Global Gateway, Team Europe is mobilising up to 300 billion of investments worldwide for sustainable and high-quality projects, responding to the needs of partners and ensuring lasting benefits for local communities. Global Gateway is about smart, clean and secure investments in quality infrastructure. The EU-India Aviation Summit in Delhi last month was a new facet in this common endeavour.

Global Gateway is an example of the EU commitment to multilateralism, in the pursuit of the UN SDGs. However, today the international community is facing a major threat to its foundational principles; Russias invasion of Ukraine is an attack against the UN Charter. There can be no rules-based system if might makes right. The EU stands with Ukraine in the defence of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, this is not a time for war. In an increasingly erratic world scenario, it is more important than ever that the EU and India work together, bilaterally as well as in multilateral forums, such as the G20. In doing so, we shall build on the solid foundation of people-to-people contacts that have brought together our citizens and civil society for many decades and remain the hallmark of our relationship.

Ugo Astuto is ambassador, European UnionThe views expressed are personal
Manipurs chief minister, N Biren Singh, didnt expect the eruption. Such is the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) dominance in the Northeast that its easy to conflate electoral success with political hegemony. The prevailing misunderstanding between two communities that Singh offered as a causal explanation for the riots, and efforts to pin the blame on vested interests for disturbing the culture of communal harmony  his government, too, is partly responsible for this  are not new. His promise to suitably address the long-term grievances of different communities in consultation with the people and their representatives after the convulsions of violence underscores the risk of majoritarian agendas in communally sensitive regions. PREMIUM Army personnel rescue people from a violence-hit area of Manipur, May 6, 2023 (PTI)

The real question with such clashes is not why, but why now, and why mostly in Kuki areas. The Meiteis have long nursed a grievance and perceive that theyre being shortchanged by India with their cultural hegemony steadily eroded, whereas the rights of the Christian-dominated minorities are constitutionally upheld. The existence of Article 371C, which protects tribal land rights, feeds such tensions, despite the majority of assembly seats being allocated to Meitei-dominated pockets. Unsurprisingly, non-Meitei communities have been wary of Meitei dominance for just as long. But such realities dont automatically turn into violence.

These riots are a byproduct of three interlocking processes. One, a communal turn in pre-existing ethnic fault lines. Ever since the BJPs second electoral victory in the 2022 assembly elections, Manipur has witnessed increased religious partisanship. Two, the breakdown of equilibrium between the states licit and illicit political economies since the 2021 Myanmar coup. Theres a reason why some Kuki groups remain silent, whereas others protest, and the felt need for tribal unity in the first place. Three, the states risky exploitation of strains in the Kuki-Naga relations in tandem with the dislocation of the Naga accord in north Manipur, which is ground zero for the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah).

On the first count, the BJP has long promised the Meitei communities a rectification of historical errors. This includes regaining lost cultural respect and economic empowerment. The recent demand to implement the National Register of Citizens in Manipur, for example, sought to address these agendas. This is paralleled by the desire to secure reservations by scheduling Meitei as a Scheduled Tribe, and amending Article 342A that offers such affirmative privileges to local Christian minorities. That Hindu Right-wing groups demand for such amendments in Meghalaya and Nagaland offers a clue into the communal churn across the Northeast.

Expectedly, clashes erupted after the declaration of the Kuki-Zomi-Hmar-inhabited areas as reserved forest, protected forest, and wildlife sanctuary, and the initiation of forced evictions, depriving people of land and livelihood. This was coupled with the recent introduction of invasive face-recognition systems to detect illegal migrants and aggressively enforce the Inner Line Permit a technology that requires a pre-existing set of recognised faces. Justified as a response to the Kuki-Chin illegal migration from war-torn Myanmar and Bangladesh, such practices bring into sharp relief the direction Manipur is headed in. But this leads to the next question: Why the call for tribal unity?

The answer lies in Manipurs political economy. Predominantly agrarian, and dependent on central government grants and loans, the only other major source of state revenue is cross-border trade, much of which is illicit. Moreh, a Kuki-dominated border trading town, is believed to be doubling up as a transhipment hub for the Golden Triangle-linked drug trade, which has exploded in recent years. Since the 2021 Myanmar coup, there has been an uptick in junta-controlled opium production in the northern Chin state, which is connected to south Manipur. This is where an Assam Rifles commanding officer combating drugs was killed by a Myanmar-based insurgent group on the juntas payroll. Ever since, theres been a struggle between the state and insurgents to control and tame drug profits. If reservations for the Meitei communities promised to restructure the distribution of jobs and grants away from minorities, the governments attempt to reshape the drug trade generated turbulence in the underground. This explains why Imphal ended Suspension of Operation pacts with the Kuki national and Zomi revolutionary armies, but not other Kuki outfits. It is a time-tested tactic to divide and dominate the insurgent landscape, necessitating the tribal unity rally that snowballed into violence.

This is where the third, interlinked driver, comes in i.e., strains in Kuki-Naga relations. Clashes between the NSCN-IM and Kuki outfits are routine. This partly explains the silence of the Manipuri Nagas. But these communities, too, resent Meitei dominance. Imphals apparent encouragement of the Naga-Kuki divide and fostering of intra-Kuki discord are seemingly shrewd. But such strategies are risky. Violence in the south could offer the NSCN-IM an opportunity to rekindle violence in north Manipur. Apart from viewing Imphal with suspicion, the NSCN-IM has also lashed out against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh for impeding the accord. The overreach with the Kukis could reignite the Naga conflict.

None of this means that the Meitei grievances are groundless. Indias acceptance of colonial boundaries as truths, and sops to Naga and Mizo insurgents, deepened the Meitei sense of injustice. Reservations are a way Singh felt he could satisfy his constituents while coopting segments of the minority communities. It was a miscalculation. Most northeastern states depend on the central government for their financial viability. If the BJP rules the Centre, its logical to have it rule the state too. This brutal logic ensured the Congresss decades-long dominance and explains its unrelenting collapse. For the BJP to confuse this as political hegemony is an error Singh may be forced to walk back from.

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 (2017)The views expressed are personal
Whatever may be the outcome of the Karnataka Assembly election 2023, it would go down in the states history as one in which, for the first time in Karnataka, a sitting prime minister virtually took over the campaign for the ruling party. PREMIUM Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a roadshow in Bengaluru. (PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed 21 public meetings and held several road shows covering a large part of the state during the two weeks of the election campaign. Add to this the several pre-election visits that the PM made, including those to inaugurate the Shimoga airport (on February 27) and the Bangalore-Mysore Expressway (on March 12).

The prime minister's virtual camping in the state might have enthused the party workers. This has now become a common element of the BJPs state election strategy as it was seen earlier in the cases of West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh. But, the signals that the PM-centred election campaign in Karnataka has sent to the electorate are not all quite positive.

For one, the repetitive nature of the rallies and roadshows took away the curiosity and excitement associated with the events except among the die-hard BJP supporters. At times, it came across as a desperate move of the ruling BJP, as the party had no credible state leader to present before the people and no major issue to flag.

This is the first time that the BJP is facing elections in Karnataka without projecting a credible leader as its candidate for the chief ministers post. Generally, a ruling party would always go to the election with the sitting chief minister as its face, but chief minister Basavaraja Bommai was seen as a minor player in the campaign dominated by the prime minister. So was former chief minister B.S. Yediyurappa who played his role in the campaign more as a grand patriarchal figure rather than as a future leader of any promise given the party's rule of retiring leaders older than 75 years. In the past, the BJP had ridiculed the Congress whenever the grand old party faced elections without projecting a leader as the possible future chief minister. At the receiving end this time, the BJP strategically skirted the issue.

The prime minister came, he saw people who managed to be present at his rallies and roadshows, and the people in turn saw him, but what did he tell them? What was his message to the electorate of whom many harboured anger against the incumbent state government of the prime ministers party? It was here that the grandiosely planned strategy appeared morally shaky. The narrative he placed before the people lacked consistency and conviction. Initially, he spoke about corruption despite his own party government having been steeped neck deep in corruption charges. Eventually, the focus moved away possibly because the reference to corruption received a rebuttal from the opposition which cited the latest example of party MLA Madal Virupakshappas arrest on corruption charges a day before the election was announced in March.

The second favourite topic was the dynastic rule in the Congress, but when it came to light that the BJPs list of contestants had many local-level dynasts, the prime minister changed track. Then it was the promise of a double-engine government (the same party ruling at both Centre and state), which was an idea rejected by voters in Karnataka long ago. In any case, the track record of the double-engine government for the past four years left the people with very little expectations from the prime ministers promise of Making Karnataka Number 1 through it.

Then, the Congress gave him a stick to beat it with a couple of its characteristic faux pas. First, it was AICCI President Mallikarjun Kharge calling the Prime Minister poisonous and then Congress manifesto making a promise to consider banning the Bajrang Dal. After this, the prime minister started seeking sympathy, first for himself for being the target of unfair criticism from the Congress, and then for Lord Hanuman. In a strange logic, BJP argued that the proposed ban on one of the virulent organisations was an affront to Lord Hanuman. And the final shot from the prime minister even sounded a bit absurd when he said under the Congress, Karnataka would break away from the Indian Union!

The Karnataka election 2023 would attract the attention of future generations not just for the prolonged presence of the prime minister on the field but also for the kind of election speeches that any prime minister so far would have delivered in a state election. Conspicuous by absence in Modis rally speeches was anything to assuage the electorate reeling under price rise. Would the grand spectacle and political rhetoric be sufficient to douse the fire of anti-incumbency? For an answer, one needs to wait till May 13.

Karnatakas political history shows that the electorate here has generally not preferred the party in power at the Centre to rule the state, thus rejecting the idea of a double-engine government. Since 1983, when the first non-Congress government came to power in Karnataka, the voters here have elected one of the parties sitting in the opposition at the Centre to rule Karnataka. So, in 1983, Karnataka elected Janata Party Government here when the Congress was in power at the Centre. In 1985, the Congress government led by Rajiv Gandhi was at the Centre whereas Karnataka re-elected the Janata Party to rule the state. In 1989, Janata Dal held power at the Centre, but Karnataka voted overwhelmingly for the Congress. In 1994, Congress under Narasimha Rao was in power at the Centre, but Karnataka voted for the Janata Dal. In 1999, when the BJP came to power at the Centre, Karnatakas choice was the Congress. In 2004, it was a role reversal. The Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) assumed power at the Centre, whereas the state rejected the Congress eventually leading to two coalition governments.

In 2008, the UPA was in power at the Centre whereas the State elected its first BJP government. In 2013, when the Congress came to power in Karnataka, the Congress held power at the Centre too, but within a year the BJP replaced the Congress at the Centre. In 2018 again, as the BJP continued to hold power at the Centre, a Congress-JDS coalition assumed power in the state. It was only because of the BJPs Operation Kamala that Karnataka came to have the government of the same party as at the Centre between 2019 and 2023. This first double-engine government after 40 years was not the choice of the people but was imposed on them by the BJP through horse trading.

Karnataka does not have a regional party but avoiding the rule by the party in power at the Centre seemed the states version of regional politics. The prime minister imposing himself on state politics and advocating the cause of a double-engine government, therefore, was certainly not in sync with the idea of Karnataka. Irrespective of how many additional seats the prime ministers prolonged campaign would have helped the BJP to win, it appeared that the prime minister was pushing Karnataka in the direction of a political culture which is very different from what it has always been known for.

A Narayana is a professor of public policy and governance at Azim Premji University, Bengaluru

The views expressed are personal
The Shanghai Cooperation Organisations (SCOs) foreign ministers meeting ended in Goa on exactly the note that all well prepared major international conferences should  no surprises and no setbacks, as far as the substantive agenda of the meeting was concerned. Since the SCO excludes the raising of bilateral issues, this platform was not available for Pakistan to attempt to internationalise Kashmir, its stated intent in all international forums. In the circumstances, there appeared no major hurdles in advancing the agenda of this meeting or in viewing it as a success in terms of preparing the ground for the SCO summit later this year in New Delhi. PREMIUM The overall context of the India-Pakistan relationship and the extent of domestic confusion in Pakistan ruled out the possibility of any meaningful bilateral engagement at the recently concluded SCO meet in Goa (AFP)

To the outside world, questions surrounding the SCO have a bearing on the situation in Europe, in particular the war in Ukraine, and on the even larger issue of the United States (US)-China rivalry. To some in India, the main point of interest was the bilateral interface with China, given the ongoing situation on the Line of Actual Control. But for most, and certainly it received the most attention, was the India-Pakistan bilateral interface, or the absence of it. This was, after all, the first visit by a Pakistani foreign minister to India in over a decade. To some, it appeared that the fact that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari attended the meeting in person rather than opt for a virtual presence meant something, at least the hint of a thaw.

The more plausible explanation, however, behind the Pakistani ministers presence, was that, despite some internal criticism, not attending the meet would have meant Pakistan choosing to isolate itself from the SCO because of the India factor. Certainly, his presence in Goa underlined the importance India and Pakistan place on their SCO membership. In any case, the overall context of the India-Pakistan relationship and the extent of domestic confusion in Pakistan ruled out the possibility of any meaningful bilateral engagement.

The terror attack and fatalities in Poonch two weeks earlier, and another major attack in Rajouri even as the SCO meeting was concluding, framed the India-Pakistan interface more directly and brutally. While the substance of the SCO meeting proceeded smoothly, it was at its conclusion that India-Pakistan issues came to fore. This took the form of polemical and strongly provocative media statements from the Pakistan foreign minister and a correspondingly robust response from the Indian external affairs minister. Such exchanges over terrorism or Kashmir are staples of the India-Pakistan conversation and have recurred several times in the past. Nevertheless, in the present situation, they are not without significance.

Does the exchange leave the India-Pakistan relationship in even worse shape than it was before Bhutto Zardari landed in Goa? Notwithstanding the occasional high-decibel rhetoric and personal attacks on senior government figures in India, the relationship has been minimally stable since early 2021 and the reaffirmation of the ceasefire by both sides. The stability is, however, at a very low plateau  no bilateral contacts, a downgraded diplomatic representation and a closure of trade. It has been, therefore, a fragile, even brittle, stability.

It is nevertheless significant because the ceasefire has endured, despite a year-long period of serious internal political turmoil and severe economic stress in Pakistan. No early closure appears evident in Pakistans flux, with the judiciary now an equal player in the Imran Khan vs Nawaz Sharif contest. Will there be an election in the near future, or could it be delayed to the end of the year? How will a sputtering economy deal with this political chaos? These are questions that all of Pakistan debates daily, without any clear consensus or answer.

Over the past year, the Pakistan army has gone through a messy and bruising transition at its highest echelons alongside an intense civil-military contestation. Its image today is more dented than at any time in the past decade-and-a-half. While the possibility of serious dissension within the army command structure can be discounted, the fact remains that we have heard more about the armys internal squabbles and jostling for top jobs in the past few months than at any time in the recent past. The former chief of army staff  General Qamar Javed Bajwa  stands diminished, at least in public narratives, as someone who got involved in political dogfights not as an impartial and ultimate power centre, but as someone advancing his personal interests. The charge is that he played both sides of the political divide with an eye to securing a further tenure extension for himself. Alongside all this, he, not unexpectedly, is also being castigated for being soft and defeatist on India; and here, the actual facts are less important, even immaterial, than perceptions. In these circumstances, a new (since the end of November 2022) army chief is in place and has to make his own impact on the chain of command. The heightened rhetoric and the recent terrorist attacks do not bode well for the months ahead.

TCA Raghavan is a former high commissioner to Pakistan

The views expressed are personal
An experimental Chinese spacecraft returned to Earth on Monday after staying in orbit for 276 days, China's state media reported, completing a landmark mission to test the country's reusable space technologies. No details were given on what the spacecraft was, what technologies were tested, how high it flew. (Reuters)

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The uncrewed spacecraft returned to the Jiuquan launch centre in northwest China on Monday as scheduled, according to state media.

No details were given on what the spacecraft was, what technologies were tested, how high it flew, and where its orbits had taken it since its launch in early August 2022. Images of the craft have also yet to be released to the public.

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The test marks an "important" breakthrough in China's research into reusable spacecraft technology that will provide a more convenient and inexpensive way to mount future space missions, state media reported.

In 2021, what may have been a similar spacecraft flew to the edge of space and returned to Earth on the same day in a mission that was also kept largely under wraps. It landed on Earth "horizontally," according to China's main space contractor at the time.

Commentators on Chinese social media have speculated that Beijing has been developing a spacecraft like the U.S. Air Force's X-37B, an autonomous spaceplane that can remain in orbit for years.

The uncrewed and reusable X-37B returned to Earth in November last year in its sixth and latest mission, after more than 900 days in orbit.
by Ashutosh Jogalekar

This is the first of a series of short pieces on J. Robert Oppenheimer. Popular interest in Oppenheimers life seems to have peaked this year with the upcoming release of Christopher Nolans mainstream film, Oppenheimer. Several books about Oppenheimer  and even a popular opera  have come out just in the last two decades. Analogies between Oppenheimer and nuclear weapons and new technologies like AI and gene editing are frequently drawn, sometimes incisively and often misleadingly. Why does this man continue to inspire so much interest? And why now?

My goal is to provide readers who might not want to read a full biography of Oppenheimer with some of the highlights of his life that address these questions and put them in context. Needless to say, this series  which is essentially chronological  is not supposed to be an exhaustive biography and is biased by what I personally think was most interesting about this brilliant, fascinating, complicated mans life and times.

The physicist Isidor Rabi  a friend who perhaps knew Robert Oppenheimer better than he knew himself  once said that Oppenheimer was a man composed of many shining splinters. That succinct assessment captures the central dilemma of Oppenheimers life: identity. It was a dilemma that made him who he was and one that contributed to the myriad problems he faced in his life. I also believe that it was this dilemma that makes him a fascinating man of enduring interest, more interest than many of his contemporaries who were far better-known scientists.

To understand this dilemma its worth starting, as it often is, with Oppenheimers childhood. The affluent household where Oppenheimer was born and grew up was, in the words of a biographer, like Ibsens Rosmersholm, that aristocratic estate where voices and passions were always subdued, and where children never cried  and when they grew up never laughed.

He was born on April 22, 1904, in New York City to Julius Oppenheimer and Ella Friedman. Julius Seligmann Oppenheimer was part of the wave of German Jews who emigrated to America in the late 19th century. He followed his uncles and elder brother who had emigrated earlier and started a small business importing linings for mens suits. Julius came to the country as a teenager, with very little means and speaking no English, but he was a man of great ambition and talent. Within just a few years he had established himself not only as a leading craftsman of his trade but as one of the citys respectable citizens. He dressed impeccably, spoke excellent English, read voraciously in history and literature and visited New Yorks famous art galleries on a regular basis.

It was probably during one of these visits that he met Ella Friedman of Baltimore, a cultured, elegant woman from a well-to-do Bavarian Jewish family who had spent a year studying the impressionists in Paris and had taught art at Barnard College. She was an accomplished painter who had an art studio of her own in the city, an unusual occupation for a woman in that era. Ella was sophisticated and socially mobile and its not surprising that she was impressed by the gregarious, talented and ambitious first-generation immigrant; You have a way with you that just invites confidence in the highest degree., Ella wrote to Julius shortly after their meeting. The couple were married in 1903.

A year later their first child was born and was named Julius Robert Oppenheimer, or J. Robert Oppenheimer. Curiously, when asked later what the initial in his name stood for, Oppenheimer would say that it stood for nothing. This might have indicated a certain distance from his father, but contrary to this impression, Robert and both his parents remained close until their deaths.

Shortly after Roberts birth, his parents moved to 155 Riverside Drive on New Yorks elegant Upper West Side. With their ambitious and cultured backgrounds, it is not surprising that Julius and Ella doted on their son and tried  and could afford  to give him everything that he could want. But along with affection and instruction also came a protectiveness that did not always do Robert good. Ella in particular, while kind, was formal and guarded, and this reflected in her attitude toward her son. Her protectiveness may have arisen from a congenitally deformed hand that she hid under a white glove; it was not regarded as a subject of discussion even among close family. Four years after they had Robert the Oppenheimers had another son who died shortly after his birth. This experience made Ella seem even more distant at times.

From the beginning it was clear that Robert was a brilliant, precocious child. He devoured books, loved playing with blocks and wrote poetry. During an early trip to visit his grandfather back in Germany, he was given a set of minerals which turned him into an avid mineral collector. But all these pursuits  reading, poetry, mineralogy  were solitary ones. The loneliness of his mother after her sons death did little to change the environment at home, Juliuss jolly German heartiness notwithstanding. And his parents affluence and pampering made it easy for Robert to sustain his loneliness in a protective cocoon. He was driven to school in a chauffeur-driven car and discouraged from any kind of rough-and-tumble play that is typical of young boys. Two remarks of Oppenheimers from his later life attest to these early influences. I need physics more than friends, he once confessed. And more revealingly he once remembered, with his characteristic flair for self-pity and self-irony, I was an unctuous, repulsively good little boy. My life as a child did not prepare me for the fact that the world is full of cruel and bitter things. It gave me no normal, healthy way to be a bastard.

Eight years after Robert was born the Oppenheimers had another son, Frank. Frank was subjected to the same affluent, protected upbringing as his elder brother, but only Robert seems to have channeled parts of the upbringing into high-brow intellectual snobbishness. Later in life, while Robert always appeared like the quintessential ivory tower intellectual, Frank was much more rough-hewn, a man of the people. Unlike Robert he was very good with his hands  he became a first-rate experimental physicist  and fluent in music; when he expressed an early interest in it, Julius characteristically hired one of Americas finest flutists to teach him, and throughout his life Frank played the instrument competently. The brothers were always close, and their letters provide some of the most penetrating insights into Roberts thinking and personality.

During the First World War Juliuss business prospered and he became what would be todays equivalent of a multimillionaire. With Ella he went on a whirlwind art buying tour, and soon their spacious apartment was decorated with French impressionist and van Gogh originals. A butler opened the door and a maid served tea, and friends felt an acute sense of decorum and proper behavior when visiting. If the atmosphere felt stifling, the children do not seem to have indicated so, but it was clear that only the best was expected from them.

When Robert was eight his parents enrolled him into the Ethical Culture School in New York. The school was founded by an educator and social reformer named Felix Adler whose embrace of reform Judaism and motto  deed before creed  greatly appealed to the non-observant Oppenheimers secular sensibilities. The school taught the value of community service and hard work as part of the essence of Jewish identity. Throughout his life Oppenheimer never practiced his religion, but Ethical Cultures emphasis on community work and self-improvement made a deep impression on him.

At Ethical Culture he flourished. The awe that people later displayed at his intellectual fluency, speed of thinking and broad knowledge was becoming apparent at this time. His intellect had flowered in many different directions. Along with composing poetry, he read Katherine Mansfield and Dostoevsky and the Greek classics. He and a friend often stopped to inspect art at the Met. And the mineralogy hobby had turned into a serious activity; in fact, he traced his interest in physics back to his interest in properties of crystals such as birefringence. When Robert was twelve, he used the family typewriter to correspond with several well-known geologists who were members of the New York Mineralogical Society. Impressed by the contents of the correspondence, one of the members nominated Robert for membership and asked him to come visit and read a paper. The society was stunned when the learned author turned out to be a 12-year-old; a box had to be brought for young Oppenheimer to stand on and give his presentation.

By this time Robert had also acquired an unusual facility with languages, a facility that was to stay with him and impress others throughout his life. Ask me a question in Latin, he once told Frank as a teenager, And I will answer in Greek. However, while poetry, literature and languages still occupied his time, Roberts interest in science was becoming apparent. He spent a summer doing a research project in a chemistry lab, an experience which convinced him that he wanted to become a chemist. Even later in life, when he had acquired fame as a physicist, he once said, I loved chemistry so deeply that I automatically respond when people want to know how to interest people in science by saying, Teach them elementary chemistry. Compared to physics it starts right in the heart of things.

Roberts parents protectiveness and its influence on him still endured; they once got a note from school asking that Robert was holding up class because he insisted on waiting for the elevator instead of taking the stairs. The sheltered upbringing was to see a rude awakening, however. One summer when Robert was fourteen, he went to a summer camp out in the woods  probably his first experience participating in independent activities with other young boys his age. He wrote his parents, saying he was in excellent spirits and was learning the facts of life, no doubt a reference to the bawdy humor and discussions about girls and sex that boys that age often have. Julius and Ella were alarmed and rushed to the camp; the director clamped down on the tawdry activities. When the boys at camp came to know who had told on them, they stripped Robert naked, painted his genitals green and locked him overnight in a cooler. The experience must have been humiliating and traumatic, although he does not seem to have mentioned it later and bravely endured the rest of the camp. But it was perhaps the best illustration of how fragile his life had been made by his protected childhood. He had had no healthy way to be a bastard.

Unsurprisingly Robert graduated as valedictorian of his class in early 1921. He was slotted for Harvard; then as in other times, the Ivy League school was considered a fast track to a distinguished career. But first he undertook another trip to Europe, including a mineral prospecting trip. It was during this trip that he came down with a very serious case of trench dysentery. Suddenly Harvard did not seem possible in the fall. His parents brought him home for recovering. He was so bitter about losing a year that he would lock himself in his room against his parents entreaties and sink deep into a chair reading Katherine Mansfield.

In desperation Julius sought the services of a sunny, warm Harvard graduate named Herbert Smith who was an English teacher at Ethical Culture. Smith was the kind of teacher who could provide both physically and mentally edifying instruction to his charges. After Robert started to recover in the spring of 1922, Smith and Julius decided that Smith should take him out West to energize his spirit. Out West meant New Mexico.

There are a handful of life events in a mans life that in retrospect can be seen to be true turning points; in Oppenheimers case, that first trip to New Mexico when he was eighteen could be squarely counted as one. In that barren, austere landscape Robert flowered, his inner man freed from the restraints of home and hearth. He would emerge from the trip a confident young man ready to take on the world.

Smith took Robert to a dude ranch named Los Pinos where Robert rode horses, chopped wood and learnt to brave the elements. Los Pinos was in the Sangre de Cristo  the Blood of Christ  mountains northwest of Santa Fe. A particularly memorable aspect of the stay  a kind which Robert would cherish and repeat many times later in his life  was a packing trip through the mountain wilderness that started in the village of Frijoles, part of the Canon de los Frijoles. Anyone who has visited these mountains (I have more than once) can attest to their stunning, expansive, primal beauty. Among the greatest natural landforms there is the Jemez Caldera, a collapsed volcanic crater twelve miles across with an enormous grassy basin inside in which herds of elk roam. Smith and Robert must have visited this caldera and ascended the valleys and peaks around it that are part of the Pajarito Plateau.

A few miles from the Jemez Caldera and the Canon de los Frijoles, the two would have comes across a parallel canyon taking its name from the cottonwoods that dotted its valleys and mesas. Its name was Los Alamos.
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett has compared the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) to the creation of atom bomb, as he expressed his concern over the rise of the AI. Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, takes his seat to speak at the Fortune's Most Powerful Women's Summit in Washington October 13, 2015. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo

Buffett made the remark to Charlie Munger, his closest aide, on Saturday, while discussing their outlooks on tech and AI during a wide-ranging discussion at the annual meeting of Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, in Omaha, Nebraska.

When we get something that can do all kind of things, I get a little bit worriedbecause I know will not be able to un-invent it, and, you know, we did invent, for a very, very good reason, the atom bomb in World War II, the 92-year-old said, reported New York Post, citing Fox Business.

Buffett, who also confessed he got a lesson in OpenAI's ChatGPT, further voiced his fears over the rapidly-evolving technology.

Though I am impressed by AI's vast capabilities, including checking all legal opinions since the beginning of time, I am a bit apprehensive about the technology, he remarked.

AI, according to Buffett, will change everything in the world, except how humans think and behave.

On his part, Munger also laid out concerns of his own regarding artificial intelligence.

I am personally skeptical of some of the hype that is going into artificial intelligence, said the 99-year-old Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman.

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Pizza is a universally enjoyed dish. Its simple blend of cheese and tomato flavors, often paired with toppings such as vegetables or meat, has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. While we make this dish at home or even buy it from a restaurant or cafe, would you ever be willing to pay 1.60 lakhs for a pizza? Sounds a little too much, right? Well, recently, celebrity chef Brooke Baevsky shared that she made a pizza worth $2000 (Approximately. 1,62,000) for a celebrity. However, this pizza has left many people unimpressed. Woman makes pizza worth  1.60 lakhs.(Instagram/@BrookeBaevsky)

"Let's make a $2k pizza for a celeb client," wrote Brooke Baevsky in the post's caption. For making the pizza, she buys organic figs, mushroom powders, gluten-free flour blends, almonds, and some other things. She begins making the dough with gluten-free flours, water, and oil. Then she caramalises figs with honey and even makes a vegan cheese using almonds. Once everything is ready, she rolls out the dough and tops it with different ingredients, and bakes it.

Watch the video below:

This clip was shared on April 29. Since being posted, it has been liked over 8000 times. The share has also received several comments. Many people did not like the pizza.

Check out a few reactions here:

An individual wrote, "That looks nasty, tbh. Just because you can, doesn't mean you should." A second added, "Congrats, this looks absolutely terrible." "Ouch, such a waste of caviar, lost in that sauce," expressed a third. A fourth posted, "You can fly to Italy, have pizza there, and fly back to the US for cheaper."
Chinese police have arrested a man for disseminating a fake news article using the Artificial Intelligence or AI bot ChatGPT that claimed nine people had been killed in a local train accident on April 25. A man has been detained by China over alleged use of ChatGPT to generate a fake news story involving train crash. (REUTERS)

Police in northwestern Chinas Gansu said in a statement on Sunday that a suspect surnamed Hong had been detained for using artificial intelligence technology to concoct false and untrue information, reported the South China Morning Post.

The cybersecurity officials found that the article was published by more than 20 accounts on Baijiahao, a blog-style platform run by Chinese search engine giant Baidu.

The arrest comes after the country in January implemented provisions to regulate the use of deepfake technology. The provisions, titled the Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis for Internet Information Service, define deep synthesis as the use of technologies  including deep learning and augmented reality  to generate text, images, audio, and video and to create virtual scenarios.

The police arrested the suspect Hong after tracing the origins of the article of a company owned by him. Cops had also searched his house and computer after closing in on him in Guangdong province in southern China.

According to the police, Hong confessed to bypassing Baijiahaos duplication check function to publish the story on multiple accounts he had acquired. To produce different versions of the same fake story, he had input elements of trending stories in China from the past 10 years and uploaded them on his social media accounts.

Hong will be charged with picking quarrels and provoking trouble, which carries a maximum sentence of five years. But in cases that are deemed especially severe, offenders can be jailed for 10 years and given additional penalties.
China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang said on Monday it is imperative to stabilise Sino-U.S. relations after a series of "erroneous words and deeds" threw ties back into a deep freeze. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang (Reuters (File))

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Qin, in a meeting in Beijing with U.S. ambassador Nicholas Burns, stressed in particular that the United States must correct its handling of the Taiwan issue and stop the hollowing out of the "one China" principle.

The relationship between the world's two biggest economies sank to a low last year when then speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi paid an official visit to democratically governed Taiwan, angering China, which claims the island as its territory.

In response, Beijing severed formal communications channels with the United States including one between their militaries.

The tension between the two superpowers eased in November when U.S. and Chinese leaders, Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, met at a G20 summit in Indonesia and pledged more frequent dialogue.

"A series of erroneous words and deeds by the United States since then have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations," Qin told Burns, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

"The agenda of dialogue and cooperation agreed by the two sides has been disrupted, and the relationship between the two countries has once again encountered cold ice."

Tensions flared in February when a Chinese high-altitude balloon appeared in U.S. airspace and in response U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cancelled a visit to Beijing.

Last week, Blinken appeared to offer hope of a visit, telling the Washington Post that it was important to re-establish regular lines of communication at all levels.

Also last week, U.S. climate envoy John Kerry said China had invited him to visit "in the near term" for talks on averting a global climate crisis, offering hope of resetting one of the world's most important state-to-state relationships.

"Sino-U.S. relations are of great significance not only to China and the United States, but also to the world," Qin said.

"The top priority is to stabilise Sino-U.S. relations, avoid a downward spiral and prevent any accidents between China and the United States."
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has written a letter to the newly crowned King Charles III. Assange has invited the King to visit the Belmarsh prison in London where he has been confined for more than four years. Julian Assange(AP)

On Monday, official Twitter account of Wikileaks tweeted a report by Firstpost.com which contained snapshots of the letter's contents. The video report also contains footage of fans, activists and civil society members requesting the release of Assange.

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At one point in the video, Prime Minister of Australia says "I am concerned about Mr. Assange's mental health".

On the coronation of my liege, I thought it only fitting to extend a heartfelt invitation to you to commemorate this momentous occasion by visiting your very own kingdom within a kingdom: his majestys prison Belmarsh, writes Assange in the letter to the King.

One can truly know the measure of a society by how it treats its prisoners, and your kingdom has surely excelled in that regard. It is here that 687 of your loyal subjects are held, supporting the United Kingdoms record as the nation with the largest prison population in Western Europe, reads the letter.

Notably, Assange is embroiled in a bitter legal battle against USA which attempts to extradite him to file charges for his role in the publication of numerous leaked documents about the Afghanistan and Iraq wars as well as diplomatic cables.

In the letter, Assange has also taken a sarcastic dig at the quality of food being served at the prison. He has also highlighted a horrendous incident in which a prisoner near his cell, committed suicide.

As a political prisoner, held at your majestys pleasure on behalf of an embarrassed foreign sovereign, I am honoured to reside within the walls of this world class institution, reads the letter further.

Beyond the gustatory pleasures  you will also have the opportunity to pay your respects to my late friend Manoel Santos, a gay man facing deportation to Bolsonaros Brazil, who took his own life just eight yards from my cell using a crude rope fashioned from his bedsheets, writes Assange.

While requesting King Charles to visit the prison, Assange even invoked a quote from the Bible to illustrate his message.

Listen closely, and you may hear the prisoners cries of Brother, Im going to die in here, a testament to the quality of both life and death within your prison, writes Assange.

I implore you, King Charles, to visit His Majestys Prison Belmarsh, for it is an honour befitting a king.As you embark upon your reign, may you always remember the words of the King James Bible: Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. And may mercy be the guiding light of your kingdom, both within and without the walls of Belmarsh, the letter reads.

Interestingly, Brazil's president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had requested the release of Assange, after attending the coronation of King Charles III in London.

It is an embarrassment that a journalist who denounced trickery by one state against another is arrested, condemned to die in jail and we do nothing to free him. Its a crazy thing. We talk about freedom of expression; the guy is in prison because he denounced wrongdoing. And the press doesnt do anything in defense of this journalist. I cant understand it, Lula told reporters.
Indo-Canadian Sachit Mehra has been elected the new President of the Liberal Party of Canada. Indo-Canadian Sachit Mehra, the new President of the Liberal Party of Canada. (Liberal Party of Canada)

The leader of the ruling party is Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while the President is responsible for organizational activities from improving party membership, fund-raising and building the party structure across the country.

Mehra was declared elected at the end of the partys three-day convention in Ottawa on Saturday. He defeated party vice-president Mira Ahmad and will replace Suzanne Cowan.

Following the announcement of the election result, Mehra tweeted, This National Liberal Convention has been an amazing moment as a Party and as a team. I am honoured to serve as your President.

In order to send more Liberal MPs here (to Ottawa), weve got to go back into communities and begin working now, the agency Canadian Press quoted him as saying after becoming President.

Mehra is from the city of Winnipeg in the province of Manitoba. He has roots in New Delhi, as his father moved from the Indian capital to study in Canada in the 1960s.

Mehra is a businessman, as his family runs the East India Restaurants Company which has a presence in Winnipeg and Ottawa.

Mehra announced his intent to contest for the party post in October last year, and touted his experience as having served as chair of the Federal Liberal Agency of Canada, president of the Liberal Party of Canada (Manitoba) and the President of the Young Liberals of Canada.

On his campaign website, Mehra described himself as a community builder, business owner, manager, dad, husband and, a proud Liberal member, donor and volunteer from the prairies for over 32 years.

Mehra was also part of a fund-raising effort in the spring of 2021 to deliver oxygenators to India as the devastating Delta wave of the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country.

Mehra lists the Indian languages of Hindi and Punjabi as those he is conversant with.

Mehra will be heading the party organisation when the next Federal elections are held in 2025, ten years since Trudeau swept into power.

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During coronation weekend Meghan Markle was spotted hiking in California, following her decision to skip the coronation of King Charles III in the UK. The Duchess of Sussex, 41, went out for a peaceful 40-minute hike from her and Prince Harry's $15 million dollar home, without Harry and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. Meghan Markle was spotted hiking in California over the weekend  after skipping out on King Charles IIIs coronation festivities.(Twitter, AP)

Markle was in good company with her longtime friends Markus Anderson and Heather Dorak. She wore a navy blue loose-fitted top, brown hiking shoes, activewear bottoms, and a forest green jacket tied around her waist, completing her look with large-frame sunglasses, a scarf, and a Panama hat.

Many people questioned Markle's decision to skip the coronation, given her and Harry's strained relationship with the royal family. However, a source said that Markle refused to miss Archie's birthday celebration.

Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Prince Andrew leave Westminster Abbey following the coronation ceremony of Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla, in London, (AP)

According to royal biographer Omid Scobie, Markle didn't attend the coronation to "protect her peace," as she knows how much of the spotlight goes on her when she's near the story. Scobie also said that the commentary and narrative of the day would have been very different if Markle had attended the event.

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While Harry attended the coronation, Markle remained in California with their children. The Palace released a statement in April confirming Markle's absence from the coronation festivities, while Harry would be present. With the couple's ongoing public struggles, Markle's decision to take a peaceful hike could signify an effort to focus on her well-being and keep a low profile.
Adhara Perez Sanchez, an 11-year-old girl from Mexico City, is set to achieve a remarkable feat by obtaining her Master's degree at a very young age. Adhara, who has been tested to have a higher IQ than two of the greatest physicists, Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking, scored an impressive 162 on her IQ test. Adhara Perez Sanchez(Twitter/@adharaPerezfan)

French magazine marie clarie reported that this Mexican girl hopes to work with the NASA one day and is currently promoting space exploration and mathematics to young students with the Mexican Space Agency. The 11-year-old has earned a degree in systems engineering from CNCI University and another in industrial engineering with a specialization in mathematics from the Technological University of Mexico.

At three, Adhara was diagnosed with autism

When Adhara Perez Sanchez was three years old, she was diagnosed with autism, a developmental disorder that can lead to challenges in social interactions and communication.

Adhara grew up in the low-income neighbourhood of Tlahuac and was often bullied for her developmental disability.

She was very depressed, people did not have empathy, they made fun of her, Adhara's mother, Nayeli Sanchez, was quoted as saying by the magazine.

She began to exclude herself, she did not want to play with her classmates, she felt strange, different. She could be at school for a while but then she couldn't, she fell asleep, she didn't want to do things anymore, Sanchez said.

However, Adhara was resilient and persevered. She taught herself algebra and memorised the periodic table, but her mother dismissed it as "boredom."

Also Read | Nasa selects first woman, first Black astronauts for Artemis II lunar flyby

To help her daughter cope with the bullying, Adhara's mother enrolled her in therapy and then to the Center for Attention to Talent (CEDAT), a school for gifted children. Her incredible IQ was confirmed at the school, and she finished elementary school at the age of five, followed by middle and high school in just one year.

Despite the challenges, Adhara remained determined and continues to inspire people worldwide. The University of Arizona has offered her a scholarship to study astrophysics, but it was deferred due to visa issues.

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The Biden administration has announced new regulations to ensure that airlines provide compensation for flight disruptions that are within their control. This comes after months of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the airline industry blaming each other over persistent travel issues. The proposed rules would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking when an airline causes a significant delay or cancellation. Airlines currently only offer frequent flyer miles, travel credits, or vouchers in such situations. FILE - A traveler looks at a flight board with delays and cancellations at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Va., Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023. Congressional investigators said in a report Friday, April 28, 2023, that an increase in flight cancellations as travel recovered from the pandemic was due mostly to factors that airlines controlled, including cancellations for maintenance issues or lack of a crew. (AP)

"This rule would, for the first time in U.S. history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.

The Transportation Department seeks to ensure that passengers are protected against financial losses caused by airline-related issues. It plans to define controllable cancellation and delay in the proposed rule-making. The announcement is part of the Biden administration's push to improve customer service to airline passengers. It unveiled an online dashboard last year designed to improve customer service after widespread flight disruptions. The dashboard allows passengers to check an airlines refund policy and compensation in the event of a flight cancellation or delay.

The Biden administration has also launched a website called FlightRights.gov, which aims to provide information about which airlines offer compensation for flight disruptions. Only one airline currently guarantees frequent flyer miles, and two guarantee travel credits or vouchers if passengers experience significant delays or cancellations caused by something within the airline's control such as a mechanical issue. None guarantee cash compensation for preventable delays and cancellations.

The proposed rules will help improve airlines' on-time performance and also help prevent unrealistic flight schedules. The Transportation Department launched an investigation into Southwest Airlines after thousands of its flights were canceled in late December. The department is investigating whether company executives scheduled an unrealistic volume of flights, which is considered an unfair and deceptive practice under federal law. The carrier has said it is cooperating with all inquiries.

The proposed rules will be the first time in U.S. history that airlines will be required to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking when an airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay. The process to implement the rules could take months if not years. It is also not clear whether compensation for cancellations would apply to weather-related cancellations and delays.

In Canada and the European Union, airlines are required to provide compensation beyond refunds for preventable flight cancellations or significant delays. A White House official pointed out that virtually no airlines offer compensation on top of refunds or amenities in the U.S. market. The Biden administration's proposed rules are aimed at improving customer service to airline passengers and ensuring that passengers are better protected against financial losses with the proposed rules.
Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday. Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghan counterpart Amir Khan Muttaqi.(AFP)

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group. There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP.

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in TTP  which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.
On Friday the International Tribunal of the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) delivered its verdict on demarcating the maritime boundaries between Mauritius' Chagos islands and Maldives. Here is why it decided to split the claim, the role that the Blenheim reef question played in that verdict and why the ITLOS decided not to decide on Mauritius' claims to a continental shelf on the northern Chagos.

The split

On Friday, Jin-Hyun Paik, president of the special chamber of the International Tribunal of the Law Sea (ITLOS), delivered the verdict on the maritime boundary dispute between Mauritius and Maldives. At stake were 92,563 km2 of sea, claimed by both Mauritius and Maldives as falling within their exclusive economic zones (EEZs). In many ways the case was an unusual one: both Mauritius and Maldives are two of 22 states globally that are self-declared archipelagic states, with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) having provision on how to decide on maritime boundaries between neighbouring archipelagos.

At the ITLOS, both states agreed to apply an 'equidistance' formula (similar to the formula applied by the UK in the 1990s to demarcate Chagossian waters from Maldivian ones, but which were never ratified formally). To figure out just where to draw the one both states also agreed on a three-step process: coming up with a provisional boundary splitting the disputed area, adjusting that boundary to make sure it's fair to both states and then checking whether the proportion of waters allocated to each state were in proportion to each state's coast.

This is where Blenheim Reef comes in. A smattering of reefs, underwater at high tide and partially over the water at low tide, was the main bone of contention between the two states. Mauritius wanted Blenheim to be counted as part of its coast and wanted it to be used to calculate the equidistance line between it and Maldives. For that it produced a geodetic survey carried out in February last year as part of a scientific trip to the Chagos islands. Maldives argued against considering the 36 km2 Blenheim Reef to calculate the share of waters to be divided between the two states; instead where to draw the line should be counted from islands such as Peros Banhos and Salomon.

Maldives pointed to satellite images to argue that Blenheim was underwater at high tide with just patches of 57 coral heads sticking up at low tide, whereas Mauritius argued that Blenheim was part of a single "underwater structure". Should Blenheim be included in calculating the maritime boundary between the two states, it would mean pushing half the proposed boundary further north by 11 miles, netting Mauritius an additional 4,690 km2 of water, or 4.9 per cent of the waters under dispute, something that Mauritius saw as "extremely modest", but which Maldives saw as "extraordinarily disproportionate".

While the ITLOS decided that "Blenheim Reef cannot be considered a site of base points for the construction of the provisional equidistance line", it did count part of the reef - that falling within 12 nautical miles of the nearby Ile Takamaka - to use to draw the boundary. Why the ITLOS decided to do this is simple: by counting only part of Bleinheim Reef, the ITLOS tried to come up with a division of the maritime disputed zone which corresponded as closely as possible to the 40.3-km coast of Mauritius (excluding most of Blenheim from the calculation) and Maldives' 39-km coast. Out of the 92,563 km2 of ocean being contested by the two states, the ITLOS' verdict gave Maldives 47,232 km2 and Mauritius, 45,331 km2 , with the ITLOS arguing "that there is no significant disproportion between this ratio and the ratio of the lengths of the respective coasts of the parties".

Besides adding an additional 45,331 km2 to Mauritius' territorial waters, Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth in a televised address on Friday greeted this as a "historic judgment" that in a legally binding way re-confirmed Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos islands. "The whole world has an obligation to respect it" as well as ending a simmering boundary dispute with Maldives.

The continental shelf question

Demarcating the EEZ's of the two states was not the only thing that the ITLOS was being asked to decide. Mauritius also wanted it to decide on its claim of a continental shelf in the northern Chagos. This was a dispute that was bound to occur sooner or later. In 2010 Maldives submitted its continental shelf claim to the UN's Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS). The problem was that Maldives was drawing up its continental shelf claim while looking at the maritime zone that was being claimed by the UK as part of its British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). The zone being claimed by the UK did not count Blenheim Reef when drawing up its maritime zone claims but Mauritius did. In its Maritime Zones (Baselines and Delineating Lines) regulations 2005 that were passed under its Maritime Zones Act of the same year, Port Louis outlined the maritime zone it was claiming as its own. By including Blenheim Reef in its calculation, Mauritius was claiming a bigger maritime zone than the UK was. The result was that when Mauritius submitted its claim to an enlarged maritime zone to the UN in 2008, with Maldives ignoring the Mauritian claim and sticking to the UK's one, an overlap occurred with Maldives' claim to a continental shelf eating a bit into the maritime zone claimed by Mauritius.

On October 21, 2010, both states discussed this looming boundary issue with Ahmed Shaheed (then Maldives' foreign minister) acknowledging that "the parties discussed Maldives' submission to the CLCS, which had improperly claimed an outer continental shelf entitlement within 200 miles of the baselines of Mauritius" because as the Maldivian side acknowledged, they had not taken the EEZ claimed by Mauritius into account - just that claimed by the UK. According to Port Louis, Maldives promised to amend its CLCS submission which it did not do. Now with the ITLOS drawing up the line between the two states - and the continental shelf overlap occurring 224 km2 into the Maldivian zone of the now-demarcated boundary, the ITLOS has settled any such claims that eat into the other states' EEZs on either side of the new maritime boundary of the two states.

But what Mauritius wanted the ITLOS to do was draw up boundaries for continental shelves that straddle - but fall outside the EEZs of both states - where there are still overlaps in the claims of both states. The Maldives argued that this was a new problem that Mauritius was bringing into the case which was supposed to be about EEZs and furthermore that the ITLOS did not have the power to decide on continental shelf questions. While the ITLOS rejected Maldives' objections and deemed itself fit to decide on the continental shelf, it refused to wade into this question. In a separate document, the president of the special chamber Paik, explained why the ITLOS was refusing the Mauritian request to delimit the continental shelf entitlements of Mauritius and Maldives. Citing the scientific and technical aspects involved in deciding on continental shelf issues with both Mauritius and Maldives coming up with competing assessments of the seabed and subsoil of northern Chagos, there was just too much uncertainty for the ITLOS itself to decide that particular question. The risks he cited were: the effect that such a judgement would have on the rights of other states in international waters and the risk of the CLCS when deciding on Mauritian and Maldivian claims coming up with a different decision than that of the ITLOS. Hence, Paik argued, the ITLOS decided not a get an expert to decide on this and conclude that "there is significant uncertainty as to Mauritius' entitlement to the continental shelf beyond 200 nm and that, given such uncertainty, it is not in a position to make a determination on that matter".

While the ITLOS has decided the respective EEZs of Mauritius and Maldives by dividing the disputed zone between the two, both states will still have to reach a deal on the continental shelf that both states are claiming just outside each other's EEZs.

Timeline of the case

 June 18, 2019: Mauritius sends notification to Maldives indicating it is starting proceedings at the ITLOS.

 August 23, 2019: Mauritius' Solicitor-General informs ITLOS that it is bringing a case against Maldives.

 September 24, 2019: Following meetings in Hamburg, both states agree to submit dispute to the special chamber of ITLOS.

 September 27, 2019: ITLOS decides to form special chamber of nine judges with Mauritius and Maldives allowed to pick one judge each. Maldives picks judge Bernard Oxman. UN Secretary General informed of the case.

 October 9, 2019: Mauritius picks Judge Nicolaas Schrijver to sit in chamber.

 December 18, 2019: Maldives files preliminary objections in the case.

 August 26, 2020: Judge Cot resigns from the chamber.

 September 15, 2020: Judge Cot is replaced by Judge Stanislaw Pawlak.

 January 28, 2021: ITLOS rejects Maldives' preliminary objections and denies that UK has any sovereign rights over the Chagos.

 May 25, 2021: Mauritius submits its memorial.

 October 18, 2021: Mauritius informs ITLOS that Dheerendra Kumar Dabee, who retired as Solicitor-General on September 27, 2021, and now an advisor at the Attorney General's Office, to continue to act as Mauritius' representative.

 November 24, 2021: The Chagossian Committee Seychelles seeks permission to file its own submissions in the case.

 November 25, 2021: Maldives files its counter-memorial.

 December 15 & 16, 2021: Both Maldives and Mauritius state that it is up to IOTC to decide whether to allow submissions by the Chagossian Committee Seychelles in the case.

 January 11, 2022: ITLOS decides not to include submissions by the Chagossian Committee Seychelles in the case.

 January 12, 2022: Mauritius informs ITLOS of its intention to carry out a scientific survey of Blenheim Reef and other islands in the Chagos and asks ITLOS's help in arranging trip from Maldives' Gan in Addu atoll.

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 January 17, 2022: Mauritius says Maldives putting unacceptable restrictions on its scientific survey, including excluding its lawyers and Mauritian government officials from survey team, as well as asking Mauritius to get clearances from UK for the expedition.

 February 8, 2022: ITLOS informed that Mauritius had made other arrangements for the expedition and no need to further engage with Maldives. Mauritius also notes its intention to claim resulting additional costs - 460,000 - from Maldives.

 February 14, 2022: Maldives tells ITLOS that Mauritius "misrepresenting" its stand over the survey and rejects calls for compensation from Port Louis.

 April 14, 2022: Mauritius submits its reply to Maldive's counter-memorial.

 August 15, 2022: Maldives files its rejoinder.

 August 16, 2022: ITLOS informs both states that it is considering whether or not to arrange for expert opinion to decide on continental shelf claims in the case.

 August 30, 2022: Mauritius welcomes proposal to appoint experts to investigate continental shelf claims.

 August 31, 2022: Maldives objects to appointing experts as "unnecessary".

 September 30, 2022: Mauritius tells ITLOS that Maldives has changed its position in the UN over Mauritian sovereignty over the Chagos, and that President of Maldives has pledged to facilitate future travel of Mauritian Prime Minister from Maldives to the Chagos. Mauritius tells ITLOS it is dropping its claim for additional costs from Maldives over expedition.

 October 6, 2022: Maldives writes to ITLOS reiterating its willingness to arrange for future trip of Mauritian Prime Minister to Chagos via Maldives.

 October 10, 2022: Maldives objects to Dr. Mohammed Rezah Badal, Director General of the Department of the Continental Shelf, Maritime Zones Administration and Exploration at Mauritius' Prime Minister's Office from testifying on Mauritius' behalf.

 October 12, 2022: Mauritius denies that Dr. Badal will introduce new evidence in the case.

 October 16, 2022: ITLOS submits list of questions to both parties to answer in their oral hearings.

 October 17-24, 2022: ITLOS holds seven public sittings.

 April 28, 2023: ITLOS delivers its verdict.
Russia carried out drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities through the night, escalating attacks in the run-up to its cherished Victory Day holiday that celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany. A local resident stands amid debris while carrying belongings out of a house destroyed by shelling in the course of Russia-Ukraine conflict in Donetsk.(REUTERS)

Ukraine said its air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched. Kyiv's mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure. A food warehouse was set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odesa, where officials reported three people wounded.

It was one of the biggest volleys of missiles and drones yet in a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut, to deliver President Vladimir Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for the holiday.

The military said 16 rockets had hit the Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions in the last 24 hours, in addition to 61 strikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas.

"Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged," the military said.

Moscow is preparing for Tuesday's Victory Day parade, the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Putin, who uses the 1945 Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany to justify his invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine, which as part of the then-Soviet Union endured higher per capita casualties than Russia in battling the Nazis, and as ground zero of the Holocaust, proclaimed May 8 to be Victory Day, rather than May 9 - a clear bid to separate its observance of the day from that of Russia.

"Recalling the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers today," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a statement.

"Unfortunately, evil has returned. Just as evil rushed into our towns and villages then, so it does now. As it killed our people then, so it does now," he said. "And all the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated, just as Nazism was defeated."

Russia has cancelled or curtailed some of the huge military parades that normally accompany Victory Day. Western countries say this is in part out of security concerns and in part because Moscow has lost so much military hardware in a largely failed winter offensive in Ukraine that has seen the most intense ground combat in Europe since World War Two.

"The Russians still hope to capture the city by May 9. Our task is to prevent this," Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said after visiting the front line near Bakhmut, Russia's main target.

Ukraine, which drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory last year, has kept its troops on the defensive for the past six months, but is preparing a massive counteroffensive in coming weeks.

Russia's costly winter campaign captured almost no ground, apart from around Bakhmut where its forces have been led by Wagner, a private army that recruited thousands of convicts from prison.

Wagner's boss Yevgeny Prigozhin announced last week that he would pull out of Bakhmut on May 10, denouncing Russian commanders for failing to give his fighters enough ammunition. He appeared to reverse himself on Sunday, saying he had now been promised the weapons he needs.

INJURIES

In Kyiv, three people were injured in blasts in the Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capital's centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyiv's military administration said drone wreckage crashed onto a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capital's two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Drone debris also seemed to have hit a two-storey building in the central district of Shevchenkivskyi, causing damage, it added.

Numerous explosions could be heard in Kyiv throughout the night.

Flames completely engulfed a large structure identified as a food warehouse in pictures posted on Telegram by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, after what he said was a Russian attack.

After air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, media said explosions sounded in the southern region of Kherson and southeastern Zaporizhzhia.

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in Zaporizhzhia, said Russian forces hit a warehouse and Ukrainian troops' position in the small city of Orikhiv. Reuters was unable to independently verify the report.

Separately, Russian forces shelled eight spots in Sumy in northeastern Ukraine on Sunday, the regional military administration said in a Facebook post.

Strikes have also intensified in the past two weeks on Russian-held targets, especially in Crimea. Ukraine does not confirm any role in such attacks but says destroying enemy infrastructure is part of its preparation for its long-awaited ground assault.
President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Monday that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany was beaten in 1945, during an address commemorating the end of World War II. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky taking part in a ceremony marking the Infantry Day in Kyiv, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.(AFP)

His speech recorded at a war memorial in Kyiv comes one day ahead of Victory Day in Moscow, a Soviet war anniversary to be marked by an army parade through Red Square with security on high alert.

Ukrainian forces meanwhile said they had downed nearly three dozen Russian attack drones, spurring explosions and air raid sirens in the capital overnight.

"All the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated just as Nazism was defeated," Zelensky said in a video at Kyiv's World War II memorial.

"Just as we destroyed evil together then, we are destroying a similar evil together now."

Zelensky was speaking on the anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender to allied forces on May 8, 1945, Victory in Europe Day.

He said he had submitted a bill to parliament to formally commemorate World War II in Ukraine also on May 8, which for years was marked on May 9 like in Russia and other ex-Soviet countries.

It is the latest in a series of steps taken by Ukraine in recent years to distance itself from Moscow, including by renaming streets and towns named after Soviet figures.

Zelensky said Ukraine would also mark a separate Europe Day on May 9, which promotes peace and unity on the continent.

- 'Always scary' -

The EU welcomed the move and said European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen would visit Kyiv for talks with Zelensky on Tuesday.

Ahead of the visit Brussels proposed a fresh round of sanctions on Russia. A spokesman said the measures would seek to tackle "the evasion of sanctions".

The Kremlin has leaned on World War II rhetoric to justify its invasion, saying in February last year it was launching the war to "de-Nazify" Ukraine.

But the Ukrainian leader said the Kremlin was responsible for "aggression and annexation, occupation and deportation," as well as "mass murder and torture".

"All of this will be answered by our victory -- the victory of Ukraine and the free world."

In Kyiv, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said Russians had overnight launched nearly 60 drones, 36 of them in the direction of the capital. The attacks wounded five people, he said.

AFP journalists saw a gutted apartment damaged by debris in the Svyatoshynsky district of the capital.

Vadym, a 47-year-old resident, said he heard air raid sirens and the shaking of his neighbouring building when the debris hit.

"We've been at war for a year. It's always scary. Not as scary as on the front line. But of course it's scary. Terrible for children," he told AFP.

- Phosphorus munitions -

He said his own children had just arrived for a visit hours before the attack.

In the southern region of Odesa, officials said a Russian strike had hit a warehouse, leaving one dead and several injured.

The Russian army also targeted a village in the southern region of Kherson, wounding six civilians including a nine-year-old boy, authorities said.

In the eastern Donetsk region, Ukraine accused Russian forces of deploying phosphorus munitions in Bakhmut, the epicentre of fighting for several months.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Russian mercenary outfit Wagner, said on Monday that his forces in Bakhmut had begun to receive badly-needed ammunition.

In a series of profanity-laced videos, Prigozhin last week accused Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu of withholding supplies.

Victory Day, a key event on the Russian political calendar under President Vladimir Putin, is going ahead despite a series of recent sabotage attacks in the country.

Military parades in more than two dozen Russian cities have been cancelled over security concerns, as well as in hubs controlled by Russian forces on the annexed Crimean peninsula.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced Monday he would visit Moscow for Victory Day events despite growing frustration at home over Russia's role in Yerevan's standoff with historic rival Azerbaijan.

The leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are also expected to attend the celebrations in Moscow.

The Kremlin said following talks between Putin and Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov on Monday that Russia will expand its military installations in the Central Asian ally.

bur/jm/bgs/bfm
US President Joe Biden has issued a proclamation honouring the victims of the shooting in Allen, Texas and ordered all US flags at public buildings to be flown at half-staff to honor the victims of the shooting. US President Joe Biden (AP)

He has ordered that the flag of the US shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds at all military posts and naval stations and on all naval vessels of the federal government in the US until sunset, May 11 to honour the victims of the shooting in Allen.

Biden's decision came after eight people were killed and at least seven others were injured from the shooting at a shopping mall in Allen, CNN reported. Authorities in Allen responded to the shooting at Allen Premium Outlets. The police said that the gunman was killed by an Allen Police Department officer who was at the mall on an unrelated call. According to investigators, the shooter was working alone.

"As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, May 11, 2023," US President Joe Biden said in the proclamation released by the White House.

He said the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all US embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities, naval vessels, and stations.

Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden again urged Congress to pass legislation banning assault weapons and enacting universal background checks after the Texas shootout, according to a statement released by the White House.

"Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Enacting universal background checks. Requiring safe storage. Ending immunity for gun manufacturers. I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe," Biden said in a statement.

He said that eight Americans, including children, were killed in Allen in the latest act of gun violence in the US. He further said, "Jill and I are praying for their families and for others critically injured, and we are grateful to the first responders who acted quickly and courageously to save lives."

Biden said that an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon killed people in a shopping mall. Sharing details regarding the shooting in Texas, Biden said, "Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, and not for the first time. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar."

He further stated, "And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts. More than 14,000 of our fellow citizens have lost their lives, credible estimates show. The leading cause of death for American kids is gun violence."

In the statement, Biden said, "Since I signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law and took two dozen executive actions to stem the tide of gun violence, we have made some progress." He stated that states were banning assault weapons and expanding red flag laws. However, they need more action to save lives.
Federal officials are looking into whether the gunman who killed eight people at a Dallas-area mall expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned that the investigation is in its early stages. Brownsville Police Department Chief Felix Sauceda speaks at a news conference in Brownsville, Texas,(AFP)

Also read: 8 killed in Texas after car slams into crowd waiting at bus stop

Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe were used by Mauricio Garcia, 33, and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents have interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined Sunday evening to answer questions from the AP, saying of the investigation, we actually dont have a lot.

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified Garcia as suspected of killing eight people at a Texas outlet mall, a day after the attack turned an afternoon of shopping into a massacre.

Garcia was fatally shot Saturday by a police officer who happened to be near the suburban Dallas mall.

A law enforcement official said investigators have been searching a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying. The official said police also found multiple weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Two law enforcement officials said investigators also searched a Dallas home connected to the suspect. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity in order to discuss details of an ongoing investigation.

A woman who lives three houses down from the low brick house said she saw a large group of uniformed officers go into the home Saturday between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.

They went in like real fast, and I seen them do that like twice, said Marsha Alexander, who said officers were still in the area when she went to bed around 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. They were gone by Sunday morning.

On Sunday afternoon, a woman named Julie was sitting on the porch of her house, next door to the one searched the day before. She declined to give her last name to an AP reporter but said she awoke from a nap around 6 p.m. Saturday to see four police squad cars and a large group of officers outside her neighbors home.

She said they entered the home and were joined about an hour later by FBI agents and other people wearing plainclothes, who she also took to be law enforcement.

The woman said she did not know her neighbors well, but knew them to be very polite, very nice people. She said the man she now understands to have been the shooter was always friendly and would wave or honk his horn as he came and went.

At about 2 p.m. Sunday, a man entered the home that was searched, but when reporters knocked on the door and waited, no one answered.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said the assailant wore tactical gear and fired an AR-15-style weapon. He urged Congress to enact tighter restrictions on firearms and ammunition.

Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts, said Biden, who ordered flags lowered to half-staff.

Republicans in Congress, he said, cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Barely a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

This year has seen an average of about one mass killing per week, according to a database maintained by the AP and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Information about the gunman in Allen emerged as the community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Authorities have not publicly identified those who were killed.

The wounded remained hospitalized Sunday, three in critical condition and four in fair condition, the Allen Police Department said in a statement.

John Mark Caton, senior pastor at Cottonwood Creek Church about two miles from the mall, offered prayers during a regular Sunday morning service for victims, first responders and the shoppers and employees who walked out past things they never should have seen.

Some of our people were there. Some perhaps in this room. Some of our students were working in those stores and will be changed forever by this, Caton said.

Caton offered similar sentiments during a Sunday night vigil at the church attended by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who has signed laws easing firearms restrictions following past mass shootings in Texas, and other elected leaders. Earlier that day, Abbott said on Fox News that Texas wouldn't enact gun control now.

People want a quick solution, Abbott said. "The long term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

The attack unfolded at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center. Witnesses reported seeing children among the victims. Some said they also saw what appeared to be a police officer and a mall security guard unconscious on the ground.

Andria Gaither, the assistant manager at the Tommy Hilfiger clothing store, said Sunday she was at the back of the store Saturday afternoon when she saw two young girls trying to hide in a dressing room. At first, she thought they were playing. Then she heard one say shots were being fired.

Gaither looked around to see customers and the store manager running to the back of the store. Eventually, Gaither and the others ran out a back door.

As soon as I got outside the back of the store, you could hear the shooting, Gaither said Sunday. It was so loud. Id never ever heard anything like that in my life. It was deafening."

Allen, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of downtown Dallas and with a population of about 105,000 residents, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show Allen's population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.
Top U.N. officials and health industry leaders are trying to tackle an alarming surge in tuberculosis, which is now killing more people worldwide than COVID-19 or AIDS. Among the problems: a high number of cases in conflict zones, including Ukraine and Sudan, where its difficult to track down people with the disease and diagnose new sufferers. A patient affected by tuberculosis struggling to breathe.(AP)

Also read: Russia carries out missile attacks across Ukraine ahead of Victory Day

Tuberculosis is the biggest infectious disease killer in the world today, taking the lives of around 4,400 people every day, including 700 children, Dr. Lucica Ditiu, executive director of the Stop TB Partnership, said before a hearing Monday to prepare for a high-level meeting in late September during the annual gathering of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly.

Before COVID-19, which like TB is transmitted through the air, we didnt see very dramatic cases of TB, she said, but after COVID we saw a type of TB that we saw in  movies in which people spit blood and they are very weak, and so on."

Ditiu said the economic impact of COVID and conflicts, first and foremost in Ukraine but now also in Sudan, are having a huge impact on efforts to treat people with TB and diagnose new cases.

Ukraine has the highest number of estimated people with TB in the European region  34,000  and also a high number with drug-resistant TB, she said at a news conference last week.

Its remarkable, the fact that the Ukrainian people are actually showing an amazing resilience in doing their best to maintain the services for TB, Ditiu said. But obviously a lot of people left the country.

Nonetheless, she said, major efforts have been made to track down those with the disease, but what worries everyone is whether people in Ukraine have access to treatment.

In Sudan, 18,000 people received treatment for tuberculosis in 2021, according to the Stop TB Partnership, which is managed by the U.N. Office for Project Services and aims to achieve a world free of tuberculosis.

But Ditiu said the situation there for TB sufferers, because of the ongoing fighting and collapse of most of the health system, is probably like a ticking bomb.

She noted how fast a COVID-19 vaccine was developed, in less than a year, and lamented that it has taken 19 years to get three or four vaccines for TB to phase 3 trials because of a lack of money.

"Very often, unfortunately, TB is very forgotten, she said, because it affects usually people in the low-income countries with a lot of vulnerabilities.

Among the U.N. officials speaking at Monday afternoons hearing are Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed and World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Also read: Top UN humanitarian official arrives in Saudi Arabia for Sudan talks

There are also two panels: one on fast-tracking access to TB services and the other on mobilizing financing to ramp up the TB response and advance research and innovation. It includes the chief medical officer for BioNTech, which with Pfizer used messenger RNA technology to make their COVID vaccine.

Ditiu said BioNTech and a few other companies are looking into using mRNA technology for a TB vaccine, which she said would have a big impact in more quickly trying to reduce and end the disease,
Los Angeles police arrested UFC veteran Tony Ferguson early Sunday morning for suspicion of drunken driving after he crashed his pickup truck into parked cars and flipped over near Sunset Boulevard. Despite the severity of the crash, no injuries were reported. Tony Ferguson poses during a ceremonial weigh-in for the UFC 229 mixed martial arts fight,(AP)

Ferguson, a former interim UFC lightweight champion, refused to take a breathalyzer test at the scene and was later taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence, police said. He was booked into the Los Angeles County Jail and his bail was set at $30,000.

The crash occurred at 1:47 a.m. in the area of Sunset Boulevard and Wilcox Avenue. Emergency services personnel were dispatched to the scene and were able to safely remove Ferguson and a front seat passenger from the overturned Chevrolet Silverado. Both individuals sustained minor injuries and were not transported to a hospital.

Ferguson debuted as a professional mixed martial arts fighter in 2008 and has a lifetime record of 26-8. However, he has lost his last five fights. He was the UFC's interim lightweight champion from October 2017 to April 2018.

This is not the first time Ferguson has made headlines for his off-the-ring behavior. In 2019, he filed a restraining order against his wife, alleging that she had threatened him and their child with a knife. The order was later dropped, and the couple reconciled.

The news of Ferguson's arrest comes as a reminder that driving under the influence is never acceptable and can have severe consequences, even for high-profile individuals.

(With inputs from AP)
Mr Tinubu and the APC are reportedly backing some aspirants for the leadership positions of the National Assembly.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, have come under attack over the proposed zoning arrangement for the leadership of the National Assembly.

Two groups, on Sunday, rejected the reported adoption of a zoning arrangement by the president-elect and the party, saying it is a clear marginalisation of the North-central region.

They called for the review of the zoning of the Speaker of the House of Representatives in particular.

Mr Tinubu reportedly backed Godswill Apabio (South-south) and Barau Jibrin (North-west) for the senate president and deputy respectively.

He also allegedly settled for Tajudeen Abbas (North-west) and Ben Kalu (South-east) as speaker and deputy speaker respectively.

The reported adoption of the four aspirants leaves out the North-central zone in the zoning arrangement.

No fewer than three aspirants from the zone have shown interest in the House of Representatives speakership position. They are the incumbent Deputy Speaker, Idris Wase and Yusuf Gagdi, who are both from Plateau State and Olatunji Raheem, a lawmaker from Kwara State.

Mr Tinubu and the party have yet to officially announce this arrangement, which is already generating reactions, particularly from the North-central.

A group of former lawmakers from the region, on Sunday, rejected the proposed zoning of the speaker and deputy senate president to the North-west.

They warned that such an arrangement will lead to the marginalisation of the North-central.

They specifically kicked against the zoning of the position of the speaker to the North-west.

Idris Yakuku, a former member of the fourth Assembly (1999-2003), who spoke on behalf of the group, argued that the proposed arrangement on zoning gives the North-west more than they deserve.

"Reports reaching us indicate that the position of Senate President in the 10th National Assembly has been zoned to the South-south geopolitical zone, while the position of Deputy Senate President would go to the North-west zone.

"We noted that when this position was made public, stakeholders across the country accepted it with equanimity and calmness due to its inclusion of other zones not yet captured in the top hierarchy of governance in the next administration.

"But to our utter shock and consternation, we learnt that the position of the speaker of the House of Representatives has again also been zoned to the North-west while the position of Deputy Speaker is still being considered.

"A region is given more than their fair share if this lopsided template of giving the Deputy Senate Presidency and Speakership to the North-west is implemented," he said.

Mr Yakubu, who was flanked by about a dozen of former lawmakers, urged the president-elect to review the arrangement or the region may be forced to consider other alternatives.

He also called for the intervention of the Chairman of the party, Abdulahi Adamu, who is from the North-central.

North-central zone outperformed North-west in polls

The ex-lawmaker also reminded Mr Tinubu of the contribution of the North-central geopolitical zone, noting that the zone outperformed the North-west zone.

"Worse still, out of seven states, the APC presidential candidate won only in three states of the North-west losing significant numbers in swing states like Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi and Katsina while in the North-central, he won overwhelmingly in its swing states of Niger, Benue and Kogi.

"Most worrisome is the fact that it is Kaduna State, where the APC performed woefully by losing the three Senate seats and 11 of the 16 House of Representatives seats that are being considered for the Speaker position," he said.

Mr Yakubu claimed that the proposed arrangement may not be from the president-elect, but from some people around him that want to impose cronies.

Pro-Wase group demands APC NEC's intervention

Meanwhile, a group supporting Mr Wase in the contest has called for the intervention of the National Executive Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to review the proposed template for zoning of the presiding officers of the National Assembly.

The group, under the aegis of North-central APC Stakeholders, made the call on Sunday during a separate press briefing in Abuja.

They stated that there are indications that the NEC of the party, the highest decision-making body of the party, will meet in the coming days, and they expect the body to intervene.

Dominic Alancha, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the ruling party risks a repeat of the 8th Assembly, where Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara, successfully revolted against the choices of the party.

They, however, stated that the 2015 option has not been considered because consultations are ongoing.

The group argued that the North-west has not done enough to warrant taking two key positions at the expense of the North-central.

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"The APC failed to secure the key states in the North-west like Kaduna, Kano and Katsina, Kebbi and Sokoto in the presidential elections which usually bring the deciding votes winning only Zamfara and Jigawa of the seven states in the zone.

"The picture is even worse with the parliamentary elections where the APC lost majority seats in Kano with the NNPP clearing 18 out of the 24 House of Representatives seats in the state while in Kaduna, the APC lost all the three senatorial and 11 seats out of the 16 seats for House of Representatives to the PDP," he said.

The group noted that the reported zoning arrangement appears to be a deliberate "act of provocation to the North-central zone which has contributed so much to the success of the APC as a party and to the victory of President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

Harvest of aspirants

So far, there are 11 aspirants in the race for the speakership of the House.

Other contenders for the position include Sada Soli (Katsina), Muktar Betara (Borno), Abubakar Makki (Jigawa), Aminu Jaji (APC, Zamfara), Ado Doguwa (Kano) and Miriam Onuoha ( Imo).

Mr Gagdi on Saturday officially joined the race, and called for the zoning of the position to North-central, while Muktar Betara, an aspirant from Borno State, will declare his intention on Monday.
Patrick Ndubueze said the Senate at this time needs a focused, people-centric, calm and supportive leadership and that he possesses those qualities

Senator-elect for Imo North Senatorial District, Patrick Ndubueze, has declared his intention to contest for president of the 10th Senate.

Mr Ndubueze made his intention known in a letter addressed to the National Working Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Ndubueze, a former member of the House of Representatives, was elected into the parliament in 1992 where he represented Okigwe Federal Constituency of Imo State.

The senator-elect is coming to the Senate for the first time after about 29 years since he left the National Assembly.

With his declaration, Mr Ndubueze becomes the third aspirant for the position from the South-east after Osita Izunaso, also from Imo State and Orji Kalu, who is currently the Chief Whip of the Senate.

The governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, a senator-elect, from the region has withdrawn from the race.

Other contenders for the position are a former governor of Akwa Ibom, Godswill Akpabio, Jibrin Barau (Kano), Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara), Ali Ndume (Borno) and Sani Musa (Niger).

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State announced that the inner caucus of the APC resolved to zone the Senate President to the South-south in favour of Mr Akpabio.

Focus and supportive leader

In the letter, Mr Ndubueze said the Senate at this time needs a focused, people-centric, calm and supportive leadership and that he possesses those qualities.

"Now, in respect of current realities in this time which requires sensitive leadership in the Senate in the moulds of: A focused Leadership, A Leadership that is people's centric and calm and supportive.

"Having been persuaded of my track record as a ranking legislator, a politician of more than 35 years standing and a personal character that had stood the test of time for integrity and commitment to the people, I, Engr. Patrick Ndubueze, being a ranking member of the National Assembly, do desire to offer myself to contest the office of the Senate President of the 10th National Assembly strongly believing in my capacity to stand in the roles of the leadership required at this time."

He appealed for the endorsement of the party leadership for the position.

"Sir, I trust that you will bless my aspiration as declared with your active support through appropriate counselling, advices and networking, to ensure that this noble cause sees the light of the day," he said.

"While I await your kind acceptance of my declaration of intention, sir, please, accept the assurances of my esteemed regards," the letter reads.

The senator-elect also wrote his colleagues to canvass their endorsement and support.

In the letter, Mr Ndubueze said he had consulted widely with critical stakeholders before declaring his ambition.

"Distinguished Senator, over the last 32 years, I have remained committed to the good cause of the Nigerian project. And had always been persuaded that our sovereign advancement inclusive of the desired progressions of millions of Nigerians is better enabled through the instrumentality of appropriately engineered legislations which are superintended by a knowledgeable and motivated political head of the National Assembly who is equipped for thoroughness, moderation and a vision-driven compassion.

"It is for these reasons, and their fulfilment, Distinguished Senator, that I have decided to declare my intention to contest the office of the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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"I do not treat this declaration lightly, Distinguished Senator. I, indeed, have been on a consultation frenzy with critical stakeholders across the length and breadth of our country to positive acclaim," he said.

He appealed to his colleagues to grant him the opportunity of speaking to them physically after the order.

"This letter to your good self is in continuation of the consultation I had embarked upon, by which, I am of the hope that you will avail me a time to physically meet with you, even as I now canvass for your support and advice as we head to the day of the election of the principal officers of the National Assembly.

"While thanking you profusely for the opportunity of this engagement, Distinguished Senator, please accept my highest regards for your good self," Mr Ndubeze said.
As catastrophe grips Sudan, the UN agency for reproductive health is stepping up support, with midwives playing a key role in helping provide safe deliveries amid growing violence.

"Health facilities and hospitals should be safe havens in times of crisis," the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) said on Saturday, condemning an attack on a hospital in Khartoum.

Laila Baker, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) regional director, said pregnant women in capital city are facing perilous conditions.

"We are acutely concerned," she said. "There is no way we can monitor them, there is no access to safe delivery services, no way to ensure even meagre communication.

In addition, women can go into premature delivery, and complications can arise from panic, she said, adding that "the circumstances are so tenuous."

Epicentre of violence

Two weeks of brutal fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have turned Khartoum, the epicentre of the violence, into a warzone and thrown the country into turmoil.

More than 500 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands forced to leave their homes, either within the country or across borders to neighbouring Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Sudan.

Many of those fleeing have already been displaced multiple times due to political instability, hunger and climate crises, with untold numbers taking refuge in unsafe, crowded and unsanitary makeshift camps.

Health sector collapsing

Only one in four health facilities in Khartoum are fully operational, with most damaged only partially functioning, leaving millions of people without access to critical care, UNFPA said.

Dozens of attacks on hospitals, healthcare staff and ambulances, alongside widespread looting of already scarce medical supplies, water, fuel and electricity, are pushing the health sector to the brink of collapse.

Severe supply shortages

"We have a severe lack of supplies in Khartoum, especially oxytocin and umbilical clips," said Jamila, a midwife working in a UNFPA-supported health centre in Khartoum. "Although services continue for the time being, we are praying for more supplies to arrive soon."

Blood, oxygen, and other medical necessities, such as fuel for ambulances, are also running dangerously low.

Despite the catastrophic circumstances, those hospitals and health centres still functioning - and standing - are proving to be a lifeline for pregnant women and new mothers.

Where access is jeopardized, community midwives and skilled birth attendants trained by UNFPA are supporting pregnant women to give birth in the safety of their homes.

Midwives play key role

For women and girls, including the estimated 219,000 who are currently pregnant in Khartoum alone, not receiving essential health services could prove life threatening.

Access to midwives is the single most important factor in stopping preventable maternal and newborn deaths.

Some 24,000 women are expected to give birth in the coming weeks, in the throes of chaos and bloodshed, making it extremely hazardous for them to seek essential antenatal care, safe delivery services, or postnatal support.

Fighting threatens safe deliveries

Incessant fighting in the Jabal Awliya village in Khartoum State has severely affected reproductive health care.

"We have designated phone numbers to receive requests for home births, and a midwife goes to perform the delivery," said Saadya, a midwife working in Jabal Awliya. "We are able to accept all requests for now."

With continued strikes on infrastructure, there is a risk of electricity lines being cut and even these emergency hotlines being severed for people in dire need.

Some 90 UNFPA-trained community midwives are currently assisting pregnant women and girls to give birth safely, mainly at home, in the Kalakla, Jabal, Naser and Al Azhari areas of Khartoum.

Over the past two years, UNFPA has trained 460 midwives who are reaching even remote communities, including in humanitarian crises, building trust and delivering high-quality maternal health services.

Surge in gender-based violence

There are also alarming reports of surging forms of gender-based violence - sexual violence against women and girls fleeing the fighting, domestic abuse fuelled by movement restrictions and tension, and women and girls being targeted when they go out to get supplies.

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In response to the rising risks for some 3.1 million women and girls who were already at risk of violence before the current crisis, efforts are underway to train service providers to provide remote psychosocial support.

Prior to the current crisis, UNFPA distributed supplies for more than 19,000 safe births and supplies to meet the reproductive health needs of more than 45,000 people, including for the clinical management of rape and treating sexually transmitted infections.

UNFPA partners are currently making sure these reach those health facilities and hospitals that are still functioning across Sudan.

Heading to a breaking point

Sudan was already one of the world's most impoverished countries before the conflict broke out, with one third of the population in need of humanitarian assistance and facing acute hunger.

The recent violence and attacks on health centres are a violation of international law and the right to health, the agency said.

As the situation reaches breaking point, and despite mounting risks, UNFPA said it will continue to assist safe births, seek protection for vulnerable women and girls, and support midwives to save lives.

Learn more about what UNFPA here.
The British hotel group Quartz Inn Hotels has announced its arrival in Mexico with the addition of Casa Antares Hotel in Queretaro. This marks the group's first property outside of Europe.

The Casa Antares Hotel, now renamed Casa Antares by Quartz Inn Hotels, is located very close to the Queretaro Airport, in the midst of nature and has 15 rooms. The hotel has already implemented various sustainable initiatives such as the use of biodegradable cleaning products, the reuse of greywater, rainwater harvesting, and the use of solar water heaters, among others.

Quartz Inn Hotels plans to continue expanding its franchisees throughout Latin America, with the goal of having 200 establishments by 2025. As an innovative initiative, the Board of Directors of the British company decided to include all the hotels joining in 2023 in its shareholding, so that member hotels can own a part of the brand.

The London based group was founded in 2021 by Ignacio Merino, Lidiia Tkachenko and Alexander Zawadzki.

Hotel website
Fighting could be heard in south Khartoum on Sunday as envoys from Sudan's warring parties were in Saudi Arabia for talks that international mediators hope will bring an end to a three-week old conflict that has killed hundreds and triggered an exodus.

The U.S.-Saudi initiative is the first serious attempt to end fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that has turned parts of the Sudanese capital Khartoum into war zones and derailed an internationally backed plan to usher in civilian rule following years of unrest and uprisings.

Battles since mid-April have killed hundreds of people and wounded thousands of others, disrupted aid supplies and sent 100,000 refugees fleeing abroad.

Manahil Salah, a 28-year-old laboratory doctor on an evacuation flight from Port Sudan to the United Arab Emirates, said her family hid for three days in their home close to army headquarters in the capital before eventually travelling to the Red Sea Coast.

"Yes I am happy to survive," she said. "But I feel deep sadness because I left my mother and father behind in Sudan, and sad because all this pain is happening in my homeland."

Lucky to leave

Thousands of people are pushing to leave from Port Sudan on boats to Saudi Arabia, paying for expensive commercial flights through the country's only functioning airport, or using evacuation flights.

"We were lucky to travel to Abu Dhabi, but what's happening in Khartoum, where I spent my whole life, is painful," said 75-year-old Abdulkader, who also caught an evacuation flight to the UAE. "Leaving your life and your memories is something indescribable."

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While mediators are seeking a path to peace, both sides have made it clear they would only discuss a humanitarian truce, not negotiate an end to the war.

Confirming his group's attendance, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, said he hoped the talks would achieve their intended aim of securing safe passage for civilians.

Hemedti has vowed to either capture or kill army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and there was also evidence on the ground that both sides remain unwilling to make compromises to end the bloodshed.

Western powers have backed the transition to a civilian government in a country that sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and Africa's volatile Sahel region.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan wastravelling to Saudi Arabia at the weekend for talks with Saudi leaders.

(Reuters)
The Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Rapids Airport, managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, announces the appointment of Patrick Perry as General Manager. Perry brings with him over 30 years of management and operations experience, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest service.

In his new role as General Manager of the Delta by Marriott Grand Rapids Airport, Perry is responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, including guest services, sales and marketing, food and beverage, financials and staff management.

Prior to joining Delta Grand Rapids Airport, Perry served in management and operations roles in multiple markets and industries. Most recently, Perry served as General Manager for hotels including Courtyard by Marriott, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Embassy Suites and Radisson Hotel Group. Additionally, he lead operations for a historic Hilton hotel with over $20 million in annual revenue.

He also held the position of Director of Finance and Operations for West Bay Beach Resort, an Interstate Hotels & Resorts waterfront resort. Notably, Perry served as Regional Manager - Sales & Operations for Burger King Corporation where he oversaw nearly 40 restaurants.
Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis announces Kelley Schmidt as the Hotel's new Executive Chef. Fresh on the heels of his arrival, Chef Schmidt will co-host the first Mississippi Dinner on June 16, 2023 alongside his culinary colleague of Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, where he was most recently Executive Sous Chef. Joining him in the kitchen for this special evening will be David Harrower, Executive Banquet Chef of Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans.

Chef Schmidt has a 17-year pedigree with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, first joining Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale as a cook while still in culinary school, where gaining hands-on knowledge both ignited his passion for the industry and sparked his adventurous spirit.

Growing up on the rolling plains of North Dakota, Chef Kelley Schmidt was inspired as a child by the lavish feasts his grandmother would cook for family celebrations and holidays. Inspired by famed chefs and writers such as Emeril Lagasse, Paul Prudhomme, Jacques Pepin and Anthony Bourdain, Schmidt set off to search out his hunger for all things delicious (and to avoid the bitterly cold winters) by attending culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu at the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona. While in culinary school, Chef Schmidt joined Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale as a cook, where he gained first-hand experience in the kitchen, only furthering his passion.

He then continued his career at the former Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas, before joining the preopening team of Four Seasons Hotel Denver, where among numerous accomplishments, he launched the popular EDGE steakhouse in 2010. In 2016, Schmidt was called by the aloha spirit to open Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, where, as Sous Chef Tournant, he assisted in the opening and operation of each of its dining outlets. In late 2017 he helped lead the opening of Mina's Fish House, with the Mina Restaurant Group. Chef Schmidt joined the opening team at Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston in 2019, where later, as Senior Sous Chef, he led the culinary team and all food and beverage operations. In 2021, he moved to Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans in preparation of opening Miss River, the much-anticipated restaurant by Alon Shaya, celebrating spirited takes on classic Louisiana cuisine. In August 2022, he was promoted to Executive Sous Chef overseeing the Hotel's food and beverage offerings, including Donald Link's Chemin a la Mer, pool, in room dining, and banquets and catering.
Laura Tarkka is a well-known name within the Finnish business sector and her most recent position is CEO of Finland's largest electronics chain, Gigantti. Prior to this, she worked for several years in the hospitality industry as CEO of Kamp Collection Hotels and held management positions within the Fazer Group.

Scandic Finland is the Scandic Hotels Group's third largest market, with 61 hotels and close to 13,000 hotel rooms. Laura will take over from Aki Kayhko who will leave the company after 11 years.

Laura will start her new position in the middle of August 2023.
Julien Munoz has extensive experience at Disneyland Paris, where he was Director of Operations in 2005, then moving on to the position of Director of Sales and Marketing. Based in Dubai since 2016, he led the sales and marketing strategy of the Dubai Parks & Resort amusement park. In 2017, he joined the Etisalat Digital group, the commercial brand of the incumbent telecommunications operator in the United Arab Emirates, as Director of Digital Strategy Projects for Dubai Expo 2020. Since 2020, he has held the position of Director Sales and Marketing for the European, Middle East and African markets within the Radisson Group.

Julien Munoz's mission is to pursue and develop a marketing and digital strategy that will strengthen the Group's ambitions both internationally and in the Principality.

View Julien Munoz's LinkedIn Profile

Julien Munoz is a graduate of ESSEC IMHI in Cergy Pontoise - France
Having surveyed more than 2,000 affluent Chinese travellers in early 2023  after the China government lifted international travel restrictions after three years  a report offers insights into the preferences and plans of the worlds largest outbound travel market.

Outbound Rebound: The Return of Chinese Travellers, has gathered in-depth findings from affluent Chinese citizens in first-, second- and t hird-tier cities in mainland China, and Hong Kong. Respondents average annual household income is more than RMB 1.4 million (US$209,000). Respondents have purchased luxury travel in the past 12 months and have travelled overseas prior to the pandemic.

The report from global marketing agency Finn Partners and professional research consultancy Consumer Search Group found that almost nine in every ten mainland Chinese respondents said they miss travelling abroad. This sentiment, couple with recent economic optimism for China bodes well for a strong rebound for the outbound Chinese luxury travel market and their overseas travel plans in 2023.

We already know that there is a strong eagerness and urge to travel after years of border restrictions in China, says Jenny Lo, managing partner for China of Finn Partners. We conducted this in-depth study to identify the changes in behaviours, needs, decision-making and expectations of affluent travellers, offering insights to better address the Chinese outbound travel market that is anticipating a faster-than-expected revival.

According to the report, nearly one in two affluent Chinese travellers are making plans for at least five trips in 2023. On average, they are planning to make 5.9 trips this year, up from 5.6 trips in 2019.

While the 26- to 36-year-old demographic shows the biggest increase in number of trips planned, younger affluent Chinese travellers aged 21 to 25 years continue to be the most frequent travellers.

Read the full article at globetrender.com
Introduction

Guest communication plays a key role in the hotel guest experience. It influences guest booking decisions, sets expectations prior to arrival, and ensures guests feel welcome and well taken care of during their stay. In recent years, however, customer communications have changed dramatically. The number of communication channels has expanded, with companies implementing an average of 3.5 new channels as a result of the pandemic. More consumers are choosing to interact with businesses on digital channels over in-person or the telephone. And the speed of mobile communications has created higher expectations than ever before for real-time responses. Furthermore, guest staffing shortages have left hotels challenged to maintain service standards. Guest communication is the sharing of information between a hotel /hospitality firm with guests. This can be, on the web, in person, on the telephone, or through digital channels like SMS, email, live chat, WhatsApp, and Messenger. The method which hotels communicate with their guests has important ramifications for creating an optimal guest experience.

An example of a cloud-based communication and interaction solution that supports the entire guest journey from the pre-stay of the guests to the end of their stay is Nevotek. With communication solutions that provide an uninterrupted guest experience, it can manage interactive services offered to guests end-to-end and integrated. In addition to interactive IPTV, IP phone, Digital Signage services, and Guest internet management, Nevotek also offers industry-leading contactless applications and featured smart messaging services to enhance the guest experience and create loyalty. The most important advantages of these services are that they are managed thoroughly on a single server and use a single database and a single interface away from complexity. All Nevotek services are available in the cloud or on-premises.

The system created by Nevotek is capable of self-checking and fixing a potential connection issue. Nevotek is the brand that revolutionized the personalized guest experience. Today, with 20 years of international industry experience in a wide range from the USA and Latin America to Jamaica, the Caribbean, and Turk & Caicos Islands, from Europe to EMEA, it offers not only a product but also a set of integrated and personalized services that will create guest loyalty and increase revenue.

Dr. Muhittin Cavusoglu, Ph.D., is the Director of the NAU School of HRM Digital Innovation Center and an Assistant Professor in the School of Hotel and Restaurant Management at Northern Arizona University (NAU). He teaches Hospitality Information Technology courses at NAU. The Hotel and Restaurant Management program at NAU prepares students for management positions in hotels, offering a wide range of job opportunities globally. Dr. Cavusoglu was searching for real-world industry applications to demonstrate to his students. Nevotek's innovative and state-of-the-art products in more than 50 countries attracted his attention at one of the conferences he attended. He believes that interfacing with real-world industry applications better prepares his students for their future careers because they learn and test these products before utilizing them in the industry. For this purpose, he collaborated with Nevotek and started to teach their products in his classes as a subject of his lessons. These products garnered the attention of his students and sparked great interest in them. By partnering with Nevotek, Dr. Cavusoglu created a rewarding learning experience for students who benefited from using Nevotek's products in his classes. After using the NevoTV app, one of his students, Shannon Regan said: Nevotek is such an amazing advancement in today's industry. It gives the guest a personalized experience and opens the door to so many possibilities. Inclusions of multiple language options, connection to streaming services that guests are interested in, voice assistant, etc. are great additions to elevate the overall guest experience!

Source: Northern Arizona University

NevoTV

NevoTV is an interactive IPTV application to boost guest experiences through in-room TV, infotainment, control, and connectivity services. It includes NevoTouchless and SoftPhone capability to manage the guest room telephone and TV through guest mobile devices. It does NOT require an app download. It enables TV and video streaming as well as various integrated value-added services for Hospitality and Healthcare companies in the most effective and cost-efficient ways. While providing classical IPTV services;

Guests can stream their Netflix, Amazon Prime, Spotify, etc. accounts or the media on their mobile devices to the TV via the casting service.

It enables control of ventilation, lighting, and curtains inside the room by integrating them with IP-based room automation over the TV.

Integrated with fire-earthquake sensors, it produces special escape plans and alarms for each room in case of an emergency.

Nevotek provides room service and restaurant service over TV.

The IP Telephony connection allows guests to control the phone from the TV and listen to their voice messages.

Advanced customizable IPTV services (background pictures with image and video support, welcome page with greeting message, hotel logo and video images, guest name displayed on TV).

Nevotek provides multi-language support in its products.

DND/MUR, Quick Check-Out, Room Ordering Services, TV Messaging System, etc. services that distinguish Nevotek from its competitors.

All these services can be complemented with a voice assistant thanks to Amazon Alexa integration.

Source: Northern Arizona University

NevoTouchless

Nevotek developed the NevoTouchless solution in the first months of the COVID-19 outbreak. With this new application that enables in-room TV, telephone, and mobile application to be used contactless in the hotel industry, it went beyond the classical mobile applications and brought all systems using IP protocol such as TV remote, room telephone, ventilation, and lighting to the guest mobile device.

SoftPhone, a virtual phone application, which is a first in the industry with its phone feature and which they believe will take the customer experience to the next level, was integrated into contactless solutions for the first time. Thus, it becomes easier for guests to access hotel services quickly and without contact via their smartphones.

In addition to providing Restaurant, Concierge, and Information services that are included in the classic hotel applications, it uses QR code technology over IPTV in the rooms, allowing hotel guests to have a unique experience without the need to download any application. The points where they differ from the classical systems include:

Guests can use their mobile devices as a remote control to set the time to wake up, order room service, and manage TV channels via their mobile devices thanks to TV integration.

The guest can use his mobile device to operate devices like lights, curtains, and ventilation, which enables room control.

The most essential feature is that thanks to the softphone feature, guests can use their mobile devices as room phones regardless of where they are in the hotel, and they can use the room phone and the hotel services from anywhere in the facility.

NevoTouchless enhances the guest experience via a Guest mobile device without requiring an app download.

Source: Northern Arizona University

Grace

Grace is designed to improve direct communications between Hotels and Guests. The Grace team works more efficiently, upsells ancillary services, quickly responds to guest requests before, during, and after their stay, and increases guest satisfaction. The main features of Grace are:

It integrated the Building Management Systems (BMS) of the hotels with messaging tools.

Guests can transmit their requests in real-time with their preferred messaging application without downloading any other application.

Grace accelerates staff with pre-prepared answers to frequently asked questions.

While the guest is communicating with the operator via WhatsApp, thanks to the PMS integration, the operator can see the relevant information of the guest, create business follow-up processes, measure the guest satisfaction with sentiment analysis, and generate analyzes and reports from correspondence.

These luxury features distinguish the solutions produced by Nevotek from those produced by its competitors. All the products developed by Nevotek are 100% owned by themselves and they can provide maintenance support service remotely anywhere in the world. Around the globe, Nevotek serves more than 3000 hospitality properties, with dedicated and happy customers using the same product for many years.

In conclusion, the Nevotek products described above provide a strategic technological advantage to hotels to meet and exceed guest services and expectations.

About Northern Arizona University  School of Hospitality and Restaurant Management

Northern Arizona University is a higher-research institution providing exceptional educational opportunities in Arizona and beyond. NAU delivers a student-centered experience to its nearly 30,000 students in Flagstaff, statewide and online through rigorous academic programs in a supportive, inclusive, and diverse environment

The School of Hotel and Restaurant Management, which resides in The W. A. Franke College of Business, aspires to be the premier hospitality leadership school providing innovative, multiculturally-focused, student-centered learning experiences, both in-person and through distance-learning programs.

The W. A. Franke College of Business provides a diverse, close-knit class experience for students from varied backgrounds, including first-generation, veteran, out-of-state, urban and rural. Businessman and entrepreneur, Bill Franke, provided a transformative $25 million gift because he recognized one of our key values: opportunity is for everyone. The support and business education our students receive directly impacts the well-being of NAU and all of Arizona. At Franke, you will become a force for change no matter where you go.

Fred DeMicco
With expectations of a busy summer travel season, hoteliers in Europe are seeking ways to increase bookings and drive more awareness to their properties. H-Hotels.com, one of the largest privately-owned hotel chains in Germany with over 60 hotels throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary has selected a broader, more far-reaching media campaign by adding several Digital Media solutions including display and social media marketing to their current suite of solutions.

H-Hotels.com has already built a strong relationship with Amadeus, having used Amadeus Business Intelligence and Travel Seller Media (GDS advertising and preferred placement) solutions for several years. The expanded partnership between the two global hospitality leaders will allow the hotel group to showcase and market their offerings on online channels to incremental travelers from their target audience and to tap into new audiences as well.

Amadeus Media Solutions offers the industrys most comprehensive, data-driven media campaigns to support our customers distribution strategies. By leveraging proprietary data along with insights from Amadeus partner network, customers  including many prominent hospitality brands in major markets such as the H-Hotels group  are able to make better informed decisions and drive better performance. For example, a recent GDS campaign for HYPERION Hotel Munich, an H-Hotels property, achieved a double-digit return on advertising spend (ROAS) allowing the property to increase its presence and market share across the three global GDSs.

Commenting on the new agreement, Deniel Frey, VP Revenue Management, H-Hotels GmbH, said: Our long relationship with Amadeus has been strengthened even further with the addition of several key Digital Media solutions. We look forward to further online visibility in the marketplace and using the latest tech tools to drive market share.

Scott Falconer, Executive Vice President, Media Solutions, Hospitality, Amadeus, said, We are proud to announce the extension of a partnership that has already proven to be successful. Adding Amadeus suite of Digital Media Solutions will allow the H-Hotels.com brand to connect to potential hotel guests with targeted advertising designed to increase qualified traffic and direct bookings.

About Amadeus

Amadeus powers more personalized and authentic travel experiences. Our solutions are designed to enrich every stage of the traveller journey and help hospitality providers acquire, service, and retain guests by profitably driving demand and converting them into loyal fans.

Backed by over 30 years of experience, we design open, cutting-edge software to provide the most efficient, trusted, and reliable systems for our customers. With experts in 175+ countries, we have a deep understanding of the hospitality industry and a desire to enable our hotel partners to create memorable guest experiences.

To find out more about Amadeus, visit www.amadeus-hospitality.com.

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Alison Guillot

View source
Excerpt from MSNBC

The World Travel & Tourism Council says the global travel and tourism sector wont fully recover this year  but it will get close.

The sector is forecast to reach $9.5 trillion in 2023, just 5% shy of its gross domestic product contribution in 2019, according to the WTTCs 2023 Economic Impact Research.

After a sharp drop in 2020, the global travel sector grew nearly 25% year on year in 2021, followed by a further 22% increase in 2022, according to WTTCs annual report, produced in partnership with Oxford Economics.

Global recovery will occur in 2024, fueled by the slow but steady return of Chinese tourists, according to the report. From there, the sector will continue to grow.

We expect 2024 to exceed 2019, said Julia Simpson, WTTCs president and CEO.

Regions recovering the fastest

By the end of 2022, tourism levels in 34 countries  out of 185 that were analyzed  rebounded to pre-pandemic levels in terms of GDP contribution, according to the research.

Countries leading the charge include the U.S. and Dominican Republic, Simpson told CNBC.

WTTCs research predicts at least 50 more countries will meet  or be within 95% of reaching  this target by the end of this year.

Click here to read complete article at MSNBC.
ASAI Bangkok Sathorn

dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok, ASAI Bangkok Sathorn, and ASAI Kyoto Shijo to open within the next month.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts under Dusit International is set to expand its global and domestic footprint by opening three hotels within the next 30 days  including two new properties in Bangkok and its first hotel in Japan.

Dusit is gearing up to welcome its first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok  dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok  which will soft open on 12 May 2023.

Located on Si Phraya Road, a vibrant street parallel to Silom and Sathorn roads in Bangkok's central business district, the new hotel comprises 179 well-appointed guest rooms and boasts a sleek, modern design that reflects Thai culture and embodies the upscale nature of the dusitD2 brand.

The hotel's wide range of facilities includes a stylish lobby, a fully equipped fitness centre, a versatile meeting space with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, an outdoor swimming pool with a panoramic city view, and a multi-level food and beverage concept featuring a grab-and-go gourmet outlet, an all-day dining restaurant with an open kitchen, and a Miami-inspired rooftop bar called Mimi serving burgers, shakes, craft beers, and cocktails.

Up next, on 15 May 2023, Dusit will mark the official expansion of its distinctive lifestyle brand, ASAI Hotels, by opening ASAI Bangkok Sathorn on Sathorn Soi 12 near Bangkok's central business district, just a five-minute walk from Saint Louis BTS (Skytrain) Station.

Building on the success of ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, one of the top-rated hotels in Bangkok on TripAdvisor, the new hotel will continue the brand's promise to uniquely link visitors with authentic local experiences in the world's most vibrant neighbourhoods  this one renowned for its impressive cluster of hip bars and Thai and international restaurants.

Alongside 106 thoughtfully compact rooms that focus on the essentials, such as highly comfortable beds and powerful showers, the new property boasts a spacious and welcoming communal space that features a cosy neighbourhood bar, a comfortable co-working area, and a unique dining experience created by award-winning chefs Duangporn "Bo" Songvisava and Dylan Jones, who specialise in authentic Thai cuisine crafted from seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

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On 1 June 2023, Dusit will then take the ASAI brand outside of Thailand with the opening of ASAI Kyoto Shijo  Dusit's first hotel in Japan  which puts guests in the heart of the Shijo-Karasuma neighbourhood, near the famous Nishiki Market in the city's renowned Downtown area.

Alongside 114 thoughtfully compact rooms designed to offer utmost comfort and convenience, the hotel will feature a large communal hub for work, rest, and play, and a cosy dining room inspired by the rich street-food culture of Bangkok. Regular collaborations with local restaurateurs and artisans and sustainable sourcing of produce will further set the distinctive lifestyle hotel apart.

"As we continue to execute our plan for domestic and global expansion, we are delighted to welcome three new hotels to our portfolio, including our first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok, our second ASAI hotel in Bangkok, and our first hotel in Japan," said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. "These openings represent significant milestones for our company, and we are confident that their unique positioning and distinctive lifestyle and food and beverage experiences will resonate with travellers from around the world. As we gear up for these launches, we are excited about the future and look forward to making our mark in more key international markets."

With an additional nine hotels set to open globally before the end of the year, including Dusit's first entry into Nepal, a second hotel in Japan, and a strategic return to India, Dusit is set to add approximately 1,700 keys to its hotel portfolio, resulting in 62 hotels (13,700 keys) operating across 18 countries worldwide by year-end.
What is the best way for guests to get from New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport to Arlo SoHo?

Arlo SoHo has parking for hotel guests so for most visitors spending time in New York, renting a car for around $40/day may be the best option. This will give you the ability to get to and from New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport, and also give you the flexibility to get around the area. Taking a taxi or rideshare service from the nearest airport, New York John F Kennedy Intl Airport, to your hotel is often the most cost effective transportation solution.
Ruling party Zanu PF says the judicial system in the country is independent of political interference despite widespread accusations of capture by the opposition and civil society organisations after three high-ranking position leaders were convicted in less than one month.

With the country heading towards general elections, Zimbabwe has witnessed three high-profile convictions of opposition leaders at the Harare Magistrate courts.

Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere, legislator Job Sikhala and Transform Zimbabwe (TZ) leader Jacob Ngarivhume were recently found guilty by the courts.

Mahere was found guilty of spreading falsehoods after tweeting that a police officer had killed an infant with a baton stick in 2020.

Sikhala, who has been in pre-trial detention for close to a year, was slapped with a six months suspended sentence and a US$600 fine after being found guilty of obstruction of justice.

Ngarivhume was sentenced to three years behind bars for calling an anti corruption protest in 2020.

These convictions have led to criticism from opposition and civic society organisations towards the government and ruling party Zanu PF for clamping down on dissenting voices.

In an interview with South African broadcaster, SABC recently, Zanu PF director of information Tafadzwa Mugwadi said.

"We do not know why Mr Job Sikhala had to put the cart before the horse to start to politicise what was a clearly apolitical crime scene. He was convicted for that and he is supposed to pay a fine I am sure and the rest is up to the courts, it is not always advised to delve deep into matters of the courts because it is sacrosanct.

"The person who was playing politics is the culprit here and the convicted person is Mr Job Sikhala. It is very clear we are a constitutional Republic. We have a constitution in place which clearly outlines what individuals must do and must not do or otherwise they will be breaking the law," said Mugwadi.

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Sikhala was arrested last year on a plethora of charges after demanding the arrest of people involved in murder of CCC member Moreblsessing Ali in Nyatsime.

Since July, Sikhala 's efforts to secure freedom have hit a snag with him denied bail on numerous occasions.

"There is no doubt even from his lawyers that Mr Job Sikhala broke the law by clearly seeking to politicise what was an ordinary crime scene where a young woman was murdered over matters unrelated to politics at all.

"The lesson here is politicians must stick to genuine politics and engage politics from an informed perspective and avoid seeking to make news out of nothing by politicising situations that are otherwise not related to politics," added Mugwadi.
Conveniently located in the middle of the city, this 5-star hotel makes for an ideal base in Dubai. It provides a gym, as well as free Wi-Fi, a sauna and an outdoor pool. Guests can soak up the outdoors on the terrace or enjoy a beverage at the bar. There is also free private parking on site for those with a car. It also has its very own wellness centre, Jiva Spa. Taj Dubai offers air conditioned rooms with a pillow menu, a mini bar and a coffee maker. They have an en suite bathroom with slippers, a shower and bathrobes. Taj Dubai boasts convenient dining options, including international dishes at Tesoro and Indian food at Bombay Brasserie. Dubai's well-known attractions and landmarks are within close proximity to the hotel, with Dubai Tower and Millennium Tower just a brief walk away. Guests can also discover Burj Khalifa.

$144 Avg. per night View Deals
ATM on-site

Electric kettle

Extra-long beds (> 2 meters)

Family rooms

Fire extinguisher

Laundry facilities

Ironing service

Flat-screen TV

Free toiletries

Room service

Smoke alarms

Heating

Physical distancing in dining areas

Physical distancing rules

Property is cleaned by professional cleaning companies

Process in place to check health of guests

Interconnected room(s) available

Indoor pool

Outdoor pool

Key card access

CCTV in common areas

Kids meals

CCTV outside property

Kid-friendly buffet

Restaurant

Bar/Lounge

Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas

Express check-out

Hairdryer

Screens or physical barriers placed between staff and guests in appropriate areas

Cable or satellite TV

Use of cleaning chemicals that are effective against coronavirus

Air-conditioned

Non-feather pillow

Guest accommodation is disinfected between stays

Guest accommodation sealed after cleaning

All plates, cutlery, glasses and other tableware have been sanitized

Delivered food is securely covered

Pants press

Food can be delivered to guest accommodation

Guests can opt-out of accommodation cleaning

Free parking

Staff follow all safety protocols as directed by local authorities

Disinfection of high-touch surfaces

Bathrobe

Private bathroom

Private check-in/check-out

24hr front desk

Designated smoking area

Kitchenette

Steam room

Storage available

Private parking

Quiet street view

Non-smoking rooms available

Increased accessibility

Linens

Towels

Safety deposit box

Seating area

Elevator

Minibar

Shampoo

Shared lounge/TV area

Shower

Iron and ironing board

Shower cap

Accessible by elevator

Dining room

Slippers

First-aid kit

Additional bathroom

Socket near the bed

Additional toilet

Soundproof rooms

Soundproofing

Bidet

Spa bath

Body soap

Bottle of water

Tea/coffee maker

Carbon monoxide detector

Telephone

Carpeted

Tile/marble floor

Chapel/shrine

Toilet

Toilet paper

Thermometers for guests provided by property

Safe

Sauna

Toothbrush

City view

Clothes rack

Trash cans

Coffee machine

TV

Conditioner

Desk

Dining area
Maria Douglas Reeve, executive editor of the Houston Chronicle, is set to become the vice president-editor for content initiatives for Hearst Texas, the Chronicle said Monday.

In the newly created position, Reeve will work to develop topics and content aimed at expanding and deepening Hearst Newspapers' footprint in Texas. New York-based Hearst publishes the Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News, Beaumont Enterprise, Conroe Courier and other newspapers in the state. The newsrooms have collaborated before, with the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News last month launching a statewide meteorological team.

"The goal is to look at how we can expand our reach, both topically and regionally  to capitalize on the resources we have to find new audiences and solidify our relationship with our current audience," Reeve said. "I think we have a unique opportunity here to really examine how we make the most of our newsrooms in trying to serve the people of Texas."

"At Hearst, we believe we can be even more ambitious with our journalism," said Nancy Meyer, president and publisher of the Houston Chronicle. "Topics like energy and the importance of education are vital for our readers, and more opportunities to advance this type of journalism are important from a mission perspective, as well as with a view toward audience growth and engagement."

"I think first and foremost we'll double down on the excellent journalism that we do now in the markets we serve," Meyer added, "and we believe that through certain topics we can better serve readers across the state."

Reeve joined the Chronicle as managing editor in 2019 and has served as executive editor since 2021.

During her tenure, she has led the Houston newsroom through the COVID-19 pandemic as well as award-winning coverage of the deadly 2021 Astroworld Festival in Houston and the May 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. In April, the Chronicle was named "Newsroom of the Year" for 2022 by the Texas Managing Editors, the fifth consecutive year the Chronicle has received that honor.

Originally from Charleston, S.C., Reeve is an alumna of Davidson College and the University of Maryland, where last year she was inducted into the Philip Merrill College of Journalism's Hall of Fame.

"Maria's a stellar editor who understands the Texas landscape, and her knowledge of Texas in the Hearst markets makes her an ideal candidate in this new role that will advance our journalism and service to audiences and/or readers," Meyer said.

The Chronicle will begin a nationwide search for Reeve's replacement. In the meantime, Managing Editor Chris Fusco will serve as interim editor-in-chief.
Houston Chronicle

Do you work for a standout company, school or other organization? Have a boss you respect and coworkers that make the job fun? Let us know.

It's not too late to participate in the Houston Chronicle's annual Top Workplaces contest. The deadline for nominations has been extended to June 16.
Tyson Foods suffered a surprise loss in the second quarter, something not since 2009, and cut its sales forecast due to the cost of plant closures and layoffs.

Shares slid more than 15% Monday.

Tyson has been trying to cut costs over the last six months. It closed its corporate offices in Chicago and South Dakota late last year and consolidated its workforce in Arkansas. In March it announced the closure of two plants in Arkansas and Virginia in order to better use available capacity at other facilities.

Tyson laid off 15% of its senior leadership and 10% of its corporate workers last month as it faces steep inflation on labor, grain and other inputs.

CEO Donnie King said in a conference call Monday that feed costs for chickens were $145 million higher in the second quarter. And in 2021 the company raised wages and implemented changes like flexible scheduling in order to combat rising absenteeism at plants.

Chicken sales volumes rose 6% in the quarter but prices lagged as supplies rose across the industry. Tyson's pork volumes rose 1% but prices dropped 10% on lower global demand. And beef sales volumes and prices dropped as U.S. demand sank, with inflation-weary shoppers looking for alternatives.

"I cant remember a time when our business faced the highly unusual situation that were currently seeing, where all three of our core protein categories __ beef, pork and chicken __ are experiencing market challenges at the same time," King said.

The Springdale, Arkansas, company __ which processes 20% of all U.S. chicken, beef and pork __ lost $97 million, or 28 cents per share, for the three months ended April 1. A year earlier it earned $829 million, or $2.28 per share.

Taking out one-time restructuring charges, Tyson lost 4 cents per share at a time when Wall Street analysts had been projecting a per-share profit of 81 cents, according to a survey by Zacks Investment Research.

One bright spot was Tyson's prepared foods business, which produces brands like Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, Ball Park and Sara Lee. Sales volumes were flat but prices rose 2% and Tyson said its products gained market share.

Branded food is our best opportunity to drive faster growth, higher margins and stronger results, King said.

King also expressed confidence that global demand for meat will grow as incomes increase, even if U.S. demand flattens.

We've been through market cycles before. I've been through them before myself. And we've always come out stronger on the other side, King said.

Tyson's second quarter revenue was flat at $13.13 billion, which is a little short of expectations.

Tyson Foods Inc. now anticipates fiscal 2023 revenue of $53 billion to $54 billion. Its previous forecast was for revenue between $55 billion and $57 billion.

Analysts surveyed by FactSet had expected revenue of $55.19 billion.
WASHINGTON  Oil companies have for decades pulled billions of dollars of natural gas from Alaskas rugged North Slope, only to pump it back underground once its been separated from the crude oil they are seeking.

More than 800 miles from the closest ice-free port accessible to ships, the North Slope has no natural gas pipeline and thus no market for companies such as Exxon Mobil and Conoco Phillips to sell their gas into.

Now a planned $44 billion project that would pipe gas the length of Alaska to an LNG terminal outside Anchorage stands to change all that as state officials, with the support of the Biden administration, seek to breathe new life into the states declining oil and gas industry by shipping the gas across the northern Pacific to South Korea and Japan.

Decades in the making, the project has confounded developers and engineers for years, entailing not only planning to build a pipeline across some of the nations most rugged and frigid wilderness but doing so at a price that can compete with a flood of new LNG projects coming online along the Gulf Coast, the Middle East and Australia. All at a time energy analysts are projecting demand for oil and gas to peak within the next two decades as nations respond to climate change.

It seemed like this thing was dead, said Clark Williams-Derry, an analyst with the nonprofit Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. This project isn't cheap to begin with, and then you have all the question marks about what the LNG market will look like a decade from now. There's many reasons to think this isn't going to happen, but without this project, that gas is stranded."

Oil companies began drilling on the North Slope in the late 1960s, and within a decade were moving oil to tankers in southern Alaska on the Trans Alaska Pipeline System. At the time, gas was viewed as a waste product, too cheap to be warrant the expense of building another pipeline.

That calculus began to change in the run-up in natural gas prices in the 2000s, and by 2013 the state of Alaska had partnered with Exxon, Conoco Phillips and BP, which later sold its stake on the North Slope to Houston oil company Hilcorp, to build a gas pipeline and LNG terminal connected to the North Slope.

They spent hundreds of millions of dollars on the preliminary engineering, only to watch global oil and gas markets collapse in 2014 following the boom in U.S. shale production. By 2017 the oil companies had pulled out of the project, handing it over to state-owned Alaska Gas Development Corp.

The prospects looked grim. A 2016 analysis by the research firm Wood Mackenzie found that in order to make the sort of profit investors would expect, the Alaska LNG project would need to sell gas at $11.70 per million British Thermal Units, far above what LNG was selling for in Asia at the time.

But state officials plugged ahead, shifting to a tolling model through which they charged customers a fee to liquefy their gas as opposed to selling the LNG itself - reducing their risk. They also decided to finance the project largely through loans to lower their costs, reducing their projected price for LNG to $6.70 per mmBTUs, competitive with LNG plants on the Gulf of Mexico if they can pull it off.

Change in fortune

When Russian troops invaded Ukraine last year, driving up gas prices in Europe and Asia to well in excess of $15 per mmBTUs, Alaska LNG suddenly looked like it could be a viable project.

The impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine tipped the worlds energy market on its head, said Frank Richards, president of the Alaska Gas Development Corp. What we see is increased interest from allies in Japan and Korea in having a reliable source of supply, and we have a stranded asset we can offer at a stable price.

And they have the ostensible support of the Biden administration, with U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel hosting a meeting of top officials from both countries in Tokyo last year to discuss how Alaska LNG can provide stable, sustainable and affordable energy sources to Japan.

Last month the Department of Energy renewed an export license for the project that had been previously approved by the Trump administration, following Biden's decision to allow Conoco Phillips to move ahead on its controversial Willow oil project on the North Slope.

But deep questions remain as to whether Alaska LNG will actually go ahead, including whether it can clear a series of lawsuits by environmental groups arguing the federal government has failed to adequately assess the greenhouse gas emissions the project will generate.

They claim those emissions will be far in excess of LNG projects along the Gulf Coast because of the energy demands of pumping gas more than 800 miles from the North Slope  almost twice the distance from West Texas Permian Basin to the Gulf Coast. At the same time, they are questioning whether the project is necessary considering the flood of LNG projects already under construction along the Gulf Coast.

Timing questioned

In the best-case scenario, Alaska LNG wouldnt begin delivering gas to customers until 2030. And environmentalists argue the project is only going ahead because of a $30 billion federal loan guarantee authorized by Congress in 2004 as part of a larger spending deal.

Is this going to lead to more exports, or this is a project we dont really need and youve built a bunch of infrastructure you dont need? Nathan Matthews, an attorney with the Sierra Club, said. Europe is rapidly going to renewables, so whether the same demand (for gas) will be there a decade from now is a question. From a climate perspective we sure hope there wont be.

Alaska officials are planning to have their financing in place by early next year and have hired Goldman Sachs to advise them.

But it could be a tough sell. None of the oil companies operating in the North Slope have so far agreed to invest in the project, according to a spokesman for the Alaska Gas Development.

Both Exxon and Conoco said they supported the project but only in terms of selling their natural gas into the pipeline. Hilcorp did not respond to a request for comment.

To some degree, the high upfront costs of the project are expected to be offset by the low cost of natural gas production on the North Slope, federal tax credits for carbon storage and the short shipping distance from Alaska to Asia compared with the Gulf Coast. But finding investors willing to cough up $44 billion is not going to be easy.

And thats if they dont have cost overruns, which is a big risk for whoever takes this on, Williams-Derry of the Institute for Energy Economics said. The only thing that might keep this thing afloat is this web of subsidies. Maybe you get equity investors from Japan and Korea with the condition you use their manufacturers and ship builders, so its just they get cheap fuel but a boost to their boat building industry.

Only time is running out.

In its analysis Wood Mackenzie pointed out it expects global gas demand to peak by 2040, steadily declining in the years following as wind and solar energy take a larger share of the global energy market.

Alaska LNG is planning to export gas to Asia at least through the early 2060s, with the export license awarded by the Biden administration last month good for 30 years.
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Every year Plants n' Petals Flower Shop on Westheimer receives hundreds of orders ahead of Mother's Day, sales associate Abbie Martinez said, making it and Valentine's Day the two busiest holidays for the Highland Village store.

Martinez's advice, which many of us fail to heed: Order early. Here are more tips to make sure you (and your mom) get the best possible blooms in time for Sunday.

Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

Know your budget

Floral shops like Plants n' Petals and Sugar Land's House of Blooms sell complex arrangements that range in price depending on flower type and size.

At Plants n' Petals, the cost of an arrangement ranges from $95 to $550, according to its website's Mother's Day Collection page. Owner Pat Houck of House of Blooms said arrangements at her store can average $125 to $150, while the least expensive floral gift is about $10.

In addition to custom arrangements, most shops also have pre-made bouquets on hand.

Lower prices are often available at grocery store floral shops. Kroger sells bouquets starting at $15 and professional arrangements from $30 to $500, a Kroger spokesperson said.

Randalls, owned by Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons, generally sells 10 times more floral products for Mother's Day than at other times of the year, an Albertsons spokesperson said in an email. Bouquets start at $12.99 and custom arrangements can be tailored to a customer's budget.

Shop for deals

Randalls has a promotion Sunday through Tuesday with special prices on 18- and 12-stem rose bouquets as well as on rose-and-lily bouquets.

Competitor Kroger has a 50 percent off deal running on its Bloom Haus flower bouquets over $25 and ordered through Uber Eats. (The grocer recently expanded its offerings through the delivery app to include flowers.) The promotion is available through May 19, according to a Tuesday statement from the company.

Delivery or pick-up?

While Kroger also delivers flowers through the DoorDash app, Randalls customers can order bouquets for delivery through its store app, but custom arrangements must be ordered in-store, its spokesperson said.

Generally, flower shop deliveries carry an additional cost based on distance. For example, House of Blooms delivery covers a 20-mile radius and starts at $15.

At Plants n' Petals, delivery is offered within a window of time, starting after 7 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday for Mother's Day. For an extra charge, rush delivery is offered. Same-day pick-up is available usually a couple of hours after an order is placed, Martinez said.

Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

Behind the scenes

Plants n' Petals and House of Blooms order flowers in April, weeks before you begin thinking about what to buy for Mom. Mother's Day flowers, Houck said, are more often in pastel colors  in stark contrast to the vibrant reds for Valentine's Day.

Martinez said the flowers arrive by the beginning of the week before Mother's Day. Orders for Mother's Day arrangements, at least from those well-organized sons and daughters, arrive as early as the last week of April at House of Blooms. Houck said the store, however, won't begin to assemble them until later so the flowers stay fresh.
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The Twin Sisters cannons hold a remarkable place in Texas history, and this summer the San Jacinto Battlefield will honor their contribution to the Texas Revolution with monthly demonstrations of cannon fire.



Theyre very important to the story of San Jacinto, and they are just really fun to fire, says lead educator Cait Johnson. Its a blast, literally.



The Battle of San Jacinto finished the fight for Texas independence from Mexico, and it opened with cannon fire from the Sisters on April 21, 1836, at 4:30 p.m. During the 18-minute skirmish, the Mexican army was decimated, with Texians killing 28 enemy soldiers for every one that they lost. The Sisters were manned by Thomas Pliney Plaster, Ben McCulloch, and 28 other men, who launched six (possibly four) pound solid state cannon balls at the Mexican forces.



MORE FROM JEF ROUNER: Shroud of Turin replica unveiled at Houston's National Museum of Funeral History
Kendrick Scott felt lost in time, which can be a problem for a man whose profession is keeping a beat. A first-call jazz drummer living in New York, Scott has, for 20 years, been called to keep time for such players as Terence Blanchard, Kenny Garrett, Pat Metheny, Dianne Reeves and Joe Lovano. The Houston native has also cut a successful path for himself as a band leader with his group Kendrick Scotts Oracle. But when live music shut down in 2020, he found himself with no gigs and no sessions.

It was too much time to sit and meditate, he says. The time was driving me crazy.

He pauses and laughs.

Would you believe I researched horology during the pandemic? he asks. Hours and hours of researching watches and time.

Scott came out of the isolated period with a better understanding of time and, well, time-keeping mechanisms. He also came out of it with a new album, Corridors, and an ambitious multi-media project titled "Unearthed" that makes its world premiere on May 12 in his hometown. That performance, too, deals with time and history and ghosts from the dark corners of our past.

MORE FROM ANDREW DANSBY: Chris Strachwitz, 'song catcher' who documented music of Houston and Texas, dies

If the early part of Scotts quarantine was full of fidgety energy, he found a way to harness it over time.

Ive never had this happen before, he says. Two projects at once. Sometimes I wish I spread them out more to make more time for both. But it worked out the way it did."

More Information Kendrick Scott presents Unearthed When: 8 p.m. May 12 Where: Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Details: $37.50-$67.50; 713-524-5050, dacamera.com See More Collapse

Digging up a dark past

Scotts "Unearthed" is a homecoming beyond his returning to Houston to perform. For one, the performance tells part of the story of the Sugar Land 95. In 2018, the remains of nearly 100 people were found during the construction of the Fort Bend ISD James Reese Technical and Career Center. Those bodies are believed to be part of a late-1800s convict leasing program, in which Black men were incarcerated for dubious crimes and leased out to plantations for work.

It was a sneaky way to put people back on the same sugar plantations theyd worked as slaves, Scott says. The whole story haunted me. It haunts me today. We still dont know these people. There are maybe 75 names on a ledger. But theyre unknown. This project is my way of trying to honor them in some small way.

MORE FROM ANDREW DANSBY: Kendrick Scott has a fondness for drums

Scott reached out to jazz star Jason Moran, a fellow alum of Houstons High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, and said he thought there was something to be done. Moran recommended Scott reach out to Houstons DaCamera, which programs jazz and chamber events it describes as transformative musical experiences. DaCamera has hosted both Scott and Moran and quite a few of their friends and peers over the years. In doing so, the organization has kept Houston artists who have departed for other places tied to their hometown. Between 2014 and 2017, it hosted Moran for a homecoming residency that included both research and performance.

Ive been living in New York almost 20 years now, Scott says. I felt like I was losing my connection to home. I left so young, I felt like I dont know enough about my home. And here was this story that happened 16 miles from where I grew up.

Scotts pitch spent little time in limbo.

I was moved by the sincerity and depth of feeling in his email, says DaCamera artistic director Sarah Rothenberg. I felt immediately we had to do this.

Getting uncomfortable

Staring at a green light, Scott felt time stand still.

Ive never done anything of this scale before, he says.

Rothenberg says she felt his doubts about the ambition of what he wanted to do. But I felt like we could help make it happen. Thats what we exist for. He clearly had a vision.

One part of that vision was pulling in assets from the region. It was important for me to have hometown folks, Scott says.

For the text, he reached out to Houston poet laureate Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton. Mouton this year published Black Chameleon, a memoir with the subtitle "Memory, Womanhood, and Myth." She was tasked with helping create a voice for the Sugar Land 95 in Scott's project. For the visual component, he reached out to artist Robert Hodge, an HSPVA classmate whose work often commemorates forgotten or under-documented pasts.

MORE FROM ANDREW DANSBY: Notable alumni credit HSPVA with nurturing their spirits

Scott will lead a trio including pianist Gerald Clayton, bassist Joe Sanders and longtime collaborator and HSPVA classmate Walter Smith III on saxophone.

Scott really became a hive for the activity he set into motion.

These relationships have been deep and beautiful, he says. I knew theyd have the perfect sense of artistry for the project. But I also wanted artists with the personalities to investigate the stories of these people. I wanted people who dont just take up space, but instead, they create space.

Scott also wrote parts for the Harlem String Quartet. You want to try to be comfortable being uncomfortable, Scott says.

Scott recalls a story his mentor and one-time employer the performer and composer Terence Blanchard told him. Blanchard recalled being on the set of a Spike Lee film. Blanchard, a trumpeter, was plinking away on a piano. Lee passed by, liked what he heard and asked if Blanchard could write it for strings.

Terence had never written for strings before, Scott says. But his answer was, Yeah, yeah. I can do that. And Terence did the same thing to me.

When they worked together on Blanchard's album A Tale of Gods Will (A Requiem for Katrina), Blanchard nudged his drummer to write an orchestration for one piece, the first time Scott had done so.

You have to be comfortable pushing yourself, he says. You dont know what could be the next thing you push yourself to do.

Crossing a threshold

"Unearthed"  for now a one-night-only show on May 12  is the immediate undertaking for Scott. But his Corridors album, released in March, also charts his arc as a composer, bandleader and artist with a wide-angle vision.

At the risk of putting too much weight into album titles, Scotts six albums do reflect a path in the names he has put on them. The Source, Reverence and Conviction released between 2006 and 2013  all exude a spiritual vibe but through a personal channel. Since signing to the storied jazz label Blue Note, hes put out We Are the Drum in 2015, A Wall Becomes a Bridge in 2019 and Corridors this year. Each of the three suggests a sort of connectivity.

Not surprisingly, the thought about connection with Corridors emerged from an absence of it.

My drums were always my refuge, he says. But for a time, they were all I had.

Scott speaks reverently of his New York neighbors who put up with more drumming than usual coming from his apartment. The contours of his living space, a long hallway with little rooms shooting off from it, informed the music. When the time came to record, Scott decided not to summon the Oracle, a larger ensemble that has played on all of his albums, and instead kept the recording to a trio with bassist Reuben Rogers and Smith III on sax.

MORE ANDREW DANSBY: Kendrick Scott: A drummer with deep 'Conviction'

Smith released his own album, Return to Casual, on Blue Note this year with Scott playing drums. Their connection goes back to freshman year at HSPVA.

He was the first person I met at the ice cream social, Smith says. We were together every day of school and not much has changed since then. Ill always go where he asks me to go.

The trio brilliantly evokes the wonder and anxiety that comes with feeling out an unknown space. The song titles reflect a time spent inside: What Day Is It?, Corridors, A Voice Through the Door, Open Door Closes.

My neighbors can attest to all the noise I made trying to get there, he says. The song Corridors came about just because I heard a particular creaking in the floors. Its a 100-year-old building. It makes some sounds. But if you spend too much time in your own head, you think, What the (expletive) is in here with me?

Fittingly, the album ends with Threshold, a hopeful tune that finds Scott moving from darker corners of the past to a new space, perhaps one of promise. Though it concludes Corridors, the song prompts commentary from Scott that could apply to both of his pandemic projects.

That song, it was about leaving the home and looking around at everybody, he says. All these expressions of confusion and possible excitement. That uncertainty: Is this cool or not? Are you ready to cross the threshold?' Most of my music ends up being about questions."

All the songs should have question marks. Are you willing to reckon with your history? I am. Some people arent. Are you willing to leave the house? I know I am. Some people arent. But I know I am.
Houston leaders head to Mexico Monday to strengthen development ties and promote Houston to the country's southern neighbors.

The trip spans Monday through Friday and is called Houston Week.

Mayor Sylvester Turner will be joined by representatives from the Houston First Corporation, the Greater Houston Partnership and Texas Medical Center. They will also be accompanied by the Houston Rockets as well as local chefs, artists and musicians.

The group will make stops n Monterrey, Nuevo Leon and Mexico City.

Each group on the trip has its own goals and will meet with local groups, officials said. Objectives include covering issues related to tourism, healthcare, life sciences, technology, sustainability and aerospace, according to a Houston First news release.

HOUSTON POLITICS: Houstonians battle soaring water bills as equipment failures and staff shortage complicate charges

Houston First is targeting tourism growth, said Holly Clapham, chief marketing officer at Houston First.

The goal of this is to accelerate Houston's brand in Mexico, Clapham said of the city government corporation.

Houston is one of Mexicos top cities for trade, tourism and business, according to Houston First.

Bill McKeon, president and CEO of the Texas Medical Center, said his goals focus on the life sciences opportunity between Mexico and the medical center.

Typically when we connect with countries, we focus on two main areas. One, we look for emerging technology in the healthcare space and that could be new drugs, it could be new medical devices or digital health solutions, McKeon said. The other area we focus on is looking at industry partnerships." He added that there are "many large pharmaceutical developers in Mexico that may be looking to build biomedical capabilities in the United States.



This is the second year of the annual trip, but Texas Medical Center's first. Its delegation will include representatives from Houston Methodist, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Childrens Hospital and MD Anderson.

McKeon said his group will be meeting with entrepreneurs in startups during the trip.

What we represent is an opportunity for emerging companies out of Mexico that want to land in the largest medical and research platform in the United States right across the border in Houston, he said.

LOCAL: Deer Park chemical plant fire still burning, runoff water being pumped into Houston Ship Channel

Mayor Turner said in a news release that he looks forward to identifying new opportunities for collaboration and strengthening Houstons partnerships in Mexico.

"The success of last years inaugural mission was largely driven by the frank conversations we were able to have with our friends in Mexico, and we want to continue building on that vital relationship as we work to identify new opportunities for growth, prosperity and economic enterprise for both regions, Turner said.
The evacuees arrived at the Pilgrims Terminal of the airport at exactly 10:45 a.m., on board a Max Airline from Egypt.

The fourth batch of 410 stranded Nigerians, evacuated from conflict-ridden Sudan, has arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the evacuees arrived at the Pilgrims Terminal of the airport at exactly 10:45 a.m., on board a Max Airline from Egypt.

NAN also reports that more Nigerians, onboard Azman and Tarco Airlines, are expected back into the country today.

Sani Gwarzo, permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, said 732 persons would arrive today from the Egypt borders.

According to him, no Nigerian is left at the Egypt border, as all Nigerians at that point had been evacuated.

"I am very happy to announce that no single Nigerian is currently at the Egyptian border, we have completed the airlift from the Egyptian side.

"What remains is the Port Sudan side and that will be completed in the next few days, probably in the next 48 hours," he said.

He said that arrangements had also been put in place to evacuate the Nigerians, who fled Sudan to the Ethiopian and Saudi-Arabian borders, back to the country.

He added that a mop-up service had been put in place beyond the main phase of evacuation, to bring back any Nigerian who wished to return home.

He, however, added that those who wished to come back should immediately proceed to Port Sudan for onward evacuation.

(NAN)
The battle to extinguish the three-day fire at the Shell chemical plant in Deer Park finally came to an end Sunday night, according to Shell.

A day earlier, officials also said the fire had been extinguished, but it reignited around 3 p.m. Saturday.

A news conference was held Monday in Deer Park to deliver updates. Representatives from EPA, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Shell spoke.

Since the fire was put out, responders were using less water to manage hotspots, eliminating the discharge of overflow to the Houston Ship Channel, according to Shell. Water was still being used to cool equipment.

We are continuing to use response measures to control the hotspots and during that time, we were able to start reducing the discharge to the ship channel and as of just a little bit ago, we have closed that valve and we are not discharging the ship channel at this point," an official said at the noon news conference.

Although authorities previously said throughout the duration of the fire there were 15 people evaluated for health concerns and released, an official said at the news conference.

The plant caught fire Friday afternoon due to a heat exchange between two heavy gas oils that occurred during "routine maintenance," according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. The cause of the fire remained under investigation as of Monday, according to Shell.

Our priority right now is to continue with the response and ensure we don't have a reignition of the fire. Once that's complete, we will begin an investigation, an official said at the news conference.

As of Sunday night, the fire had been burning but it was contained to a controlled zone until it eventually was extinguished, plant officials said.

Shell was warning residents Sunday morning of "black smoke, flaring and increased noise from the facility."

The plant is located about 15 miles southeast of downtown Houston and less than two miles from the Houston Ship Channel. Sunday morning, Shell previously had announced the runoff water from fighting the fire had exceeded the facility's wastewater storage capacity and Shell and first responders would begin releasing runoff into the channel as a "controlled discharge." The company said it would be deploying a boom  a large physical barrier used to contain oil spills  to keep any product from contaminating the water in the channel.

Following Sunday's rain, Shell said a "sheen" had been reported outside of the boom, and additional clean-up crews were deployed to deal with it. The sheen was not in the path of the controlled discharge.

Shell Chemicals along with the U.S. Coast Guard, Texas General Land Office and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality all responded to the fire.

Ongoing air testing did not detect any harmful levels of chemicals affecting neighboring communities, according to Shell, but people may see intermittent flaring. At the news conference, officials said the air quality would continue to be monitored for as long as it is needed.

"There is no danger to the nearby community," Shell representatives said in a statement.

Air Alliance Houston, a nonprofit advocacy group, released a statement warning residents the smoke from the fire could cause respiratory issues. Air Alliance Houston also urged Deer Park residents and others nearby to seek medical help should they experience any health issues after being exposed to the smoke.

When asked by one reporter why there were no news conferences or updates sooner, one person speaking for Shell said: "It is a regret," he said. "We strive to keep the community informed."

Megan Munce contributed to this report
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Lamar High School was placed on a precautionary lockdown on Monday due to a threat posted on social media that was circulating among students, according to Houston ISD.

The lockdown was lifted shortly after 2 p.m. based on a recommendation from police, according to a message that Principal Rita Graves sent to the school community.
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Ayallah Brileys suspension after a dress code violation at Houston ISDs Wheatley High School was among the many times the teen would be disciplined at the Fifth Ward campus.

At 16, Briley said she was sent to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program in HISD after getting into fights and being labeled a problem child. She enrolled in a charter school, but said she was later told her credits didnt transfer and she would need to repeat freshman year. Now, at 17, Briley feels its too late to start over.

TIMELINE: How the battle between Houston ISD, TEA reached the point of a takeover

"It makes me feel like a failure right now," she said. "I hate that word, but thats what I feel like.

Briley is one of thousands of students across the nation who experts say suffer because they are suspended or expelled from class. Black students and children from economically disadvantaged families are disproportionately disciplined for the same behaviors, compared to their white, more affluent peers, research shows.

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

In Houston ISD, which has been targeted for state takeover for poor academic performance, Black students make up 24 percent of the districts enrollment, but account for 44 percent of expulsions, according to data compiled by the Civil Rights Data Collection.

A Houston Chronicle analysis found that though 7 percent of all HISD students were disciplined in the 2021-22 school year, several campuses serving predominantly Black, Hispanic and economically disadvantaged populations had significantly higher percentages. Albert Thomas Middle School in south Houston, for example, suspended or expelled 48 percent of its student body in 2021-22. In comparison, Hogg Middle School in the Heights disciplined 4 percent of students.

Schools really have a problem and the more schools deny that problem, the more it tends to exist, said Ivory Toldson, national director of education for the NAACP and professor at Howard University.

EDITORIAL: Listen to Wheatley students at the center of HISD takeover fight

The Chronicle analyzed several years of campus-level data for secondary schools reported by HISD to the Texas Education Agency, excluding 2020-21 data, since most students were learning remotely.

The analysis found the number of students suspended or expelled at Thomas, Cullen, Attucks and Forest Brook Middle schools was more than 40 percent of the campuses total enrollment in 2021-22.

The same held true at Flemming Middle, Cullen Middle and North Forest High schools, as well as the High School Ahead Academy Middle School, which serves middle schoolers who have been held back, during the 2019-20 school year.

In the 2018-19 school year, HS Ahead, Attucks, Thomas, Fleming, Cullen and Henry Middle schools, as well as Jack Yates High School, disciplined more than 40 percent of students enrolled at those campuses.

Those campuses mostly serve Black students and performed poorly on state tests.

According to the district, during the last school year, 78 percent of disciplinary actions were due to code of conduct violations, which include breaking classroom rules, tardiness, dress code issues and chewing gum, among other behaviors. About 16 percent of discipline actions were due to fighting and 4 percent resulted from students bringing controlled substances to school.

Cesar Martinez, HISD assistant superintendent for middle and K-8 schools, said the district is aware of the high percentages of students being disciplined, specifically at Attucks, Forest Brook, Thomas and Cullen middle schools.

The disparities and disciplinary actions have definitely been a continuous source of discussion, he said. These are definitely identified priority schools in the district  meaning they do receive a number of increased supports, not just academically, but also in terms of social and emotional learning.

PAST TAKEOVERS: Here's how the TEA has taken over other Texas school districts

Every school has at least one counselor, a wrap-around specialist and a social emotional learning support specialist, which wasnt always the case, Martinez said.

The district conducted a report that found disciplinary issues could be related to the pandemic as students readjust to in-person learning. He also noted that the district has been experiencing staffing challenges. Researchers say being short-staffed could contribute some of the disciplinary issues.

Unfortunately, what you seem to be observing in Houston is not uncommon across the country, said F. Chris Curran, director of the Education Policy Research Center at the University of Florida. There is good evidence that districts serving higher proportions of minority students tend to adopt more punitive practices and are less likely to have alternatives like restorative justice.

Potential causes

Suspending and expelling students assumes discipline will change behavior, but fails to address the cause of the behavior, Toldson said.

He recounted an example of a principal who said tardiness was the No. 1 reason his students were being suspended, but admitted he never asked the students why they were struggling to get to class on time.

Maybe they shoulder burdens like taking younger siblings to school or walking longer routes to avoid a block with criminal activity, the professor said. Educators should also consider why students may not be following rules such as dress codes, he said, adding that students' families may not be able to afford to buy new clothes.

Troubles at home follow students to school, said Ashton Woods, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Houston. The issues are then exacerbated by disciplining students instead of getting them the counseling and services they need, he added.

If a child goes to school and didnt eat, and is lacking sleep because they are babysitting their siblings, no one is there to counsel the children, Woods said. Were not meeting the children where they are.

MEET MORATH: Who is TEA head Mike Morath? Here's what we know about the man at the center of the HISD takeover

Another cause for discipline disparities suggested by research, Curran said, is that teachers new to the profession have trouble getting a handle on classroom management because they lack the experience and resources necessary to rein in disruptive students.

Black and lower income kids are more likely to be taught by less experienced teachers and in schools with less resources, he said. That contributes a whole lot to the Black-white discipline gap.

They are also less likely to be taught by teachers from their same racial and socioeconomic background, which research shows can lead to an environment with implicit bias that negatively impacts students.

Cultural proficiency training to combat that is offered to all HISD staff, Martinez said, but is not mandatory.

More from Hannah Dellinger: Can the TEA rescue HISD's failing special education department? Parents are mixed on support.

Jaison Oliver, a youth advocate who began looking at disciplinary issues roughly a decade ago when he was with the grassroots group ONEHouston, fears that the the impending state takeover of HISD could increase the number of students disciplined, as an even greater weight is put on state ratings that depend on strong academic performance.

He pointed to Beaumont ISD, which suspended students at a rate more than six times the state average, while an appointed board of managers was in place. All these organizations talking about school quality  there is no kind of tracking of social emotional learning metrics for student wellness outcomes or disciplinary outcomes, Oliver said.

Possible solutions

Schools must take a holistic approach to fixing the discipline gap, researchers said.

"The first thing schools need to do is look at why they are suspending students and to do an audit of all suspensions and determine a better way to deal with the types of things they are suspending for," said Toldson.

Districts must also take inventory of the environments and climates in schools in order to keep kids engaged in learning, he added.

"Giving certificates for doing something good, playing music when kids walk in, smiling at students, reminding them if something is going wrong, they have someone they can talk to  that cultivates an overall environment that will have the best outcomes," Toldson said.

School systems should mandate implicit bias training, said Toldson, and teachers must feel as though they have all the support they need.

HOUSTON SCHOOLS GUIDE: Rankings, resources and analysis to help parents pick the right place for their children

"If teachers and staff don't feel secure, they will not show up in the way they need to for students," he said.

A shift toward restorative justice practices is needed to address violence and other issues, Oliver said. The practice encourages students to resolve conflicts on their own or in small groups instead of resorting to suspension or expulsion. Students may be brought together to discuss why a fight occurred and who was harmed.

Furr High School used a student court to address minor infractions under the late-former principal Bertie Simmons, who was eventually removed. For a time, the school did not suspend students.

Oliver notes, however, that these restorative justice practices arent widespread across the decentralized district.

They had spots that were implementing it well, but nothing systematic across HISD, Oliver said. Were trying to expand that district-wide.

Lifelong impact

For years, Janice Johnson tried to get her grandson, who is diagnosed with ADHD, accommodations while he attended Wheatley High School, but instead she found him frequently getting sent home.

He would sometimes get suspended up to a week, Johnson said. Then he would go back (to school), be there for two days, and then he would get suspended again.

ADHD can make it difficult for people to regulate emotions, according to several studies. Because he never got help addressing the symptoms of his his learning disability or the other struggles in his life, the boy regularly got in trouble for fighting.

After the final straw, he got sent to a discipline campus and then got into more trouble outside of school, putting him behind in classes.

All it did was make him want to drop out, she said.

Now, hes 21 and never got his diploma. Johnson doesnt know where he is or what hes up to. She worries for him, but still hopes he can turn his future around.

LEARNING LOSS: As Houston schools struggle to bounce back from COVID, how some suburban districts bucked the trend

For Briley, the road to dropping out was similar. She struggled to keep up with coursework because she was suspended so frequently.

Now, she is working odd jobs, applying to a GED program and hoping to attend community college one day.

Ive been told I wasnt going to be (anything), and that I was going to end up in the streets, she said of the staff at Wheatley. I feel like Im just giving them what they wanted.

Her grandmother, Jocelyn Briley, said her path may have been easier if school administrators took into account Briley's diagnosis of bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia.

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

I feel like they would just pick, pick on everything that she did, Jocelyn Briley said. They dont know anything about what is going on with these kids before they get here.
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PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  Postal carriers have more worries than snow, rain or the gloom of night keeping them from their appointed rounds. They're increasingly being robbed, often at gunpoint, from Maine to California.

Robberies of postal carriers have exploded, surging 78% to nearly 500 in 2022, according to data provided by U.S. Postal Inspection Service to The Associated Press under the Freedom of Information Act.

Letter carriers are demanding action from the U.S. Postal Service.

The National Association of Letter Carriers is outraged and angered by the assaults, armed robberies and even murders that Americas letter carriers increasingly face as they deliver the mail. These attacks are completely unacceptable, said Paul Barner, the unions executive vice president.

The Postal Service said its adapting and implementing new measures to address the robberies, which are taking a toll on letter carriers tasked with delivering about 162.1 million pieces of first-class mail each day.

Every postal employee deserves to work in safety and to be free from targeting by criminals seeking to access the publics mail, said Michael Martel, spokesperson for the inspection service.

The robberies have more than quadrupled over a decade, the data show. Weapons were used in most of the 496 robberies, injuring 31 postal carriers, last year. One, Milwaukee letter carrier Aundre Cross, was shot to death, leading to three arrests.

They definitely need some type of security, said Cross's friend, Jared Tangle. "They need someone watching their back, so they can do their jobs safely.

Many of these criminals are becoming more sophisticated and organized. Some are targeting the special keys that carriers use to access collection boxes and to deliver mail in apartment buildings.

A case this January north of Boston was typical. A letter carrier in Peabody was on his route when a 20-year-old man told him, Give me your keys and Hurry up or Ill shoot you while pointing a semi-automatic handgun at the carrier, law enforcement officials said. The assailant fled but was later arrested.

In March, a postal carrier was slashed with a machete in Lowell, Massachusetts. That assailant also was located and arrested.

The Postal Service leadership is preparing to announce more measures to address the problem, USPS spokesperson Dave Partenheimer said.

Already, the service is working to enhance collection box key and lock technology; implement dual authentication to make keys less attractive targets for criminals; and harden blue collection boxes to prevent tampering, while continuing to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to bring the criminals to justice, Partenheimer said.

Partenheimer added Monday that the USPS is in the process of briefing congressional committees on its responses to postal crime.

Theft of mail carries a penalty of up to five years in prison, and possession, concealment or disposal of property carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, Martel said. Assault carries a sentence of up to 10 years for a first offense, and up to 25 years for a subsequent offense, he said.

We will continue to adapt to evolving security threats and implement expanded measures to safeguard our employees and preserve the security of the mail that our customers expect and deserve, Partenheimer said.

But Barner said letter carriers demand solutions now.

"While we will continue to engage with the Postal Service and relevant law enforcement agencies to develop measures that will enhance the safety of letter carriers, the fear and the danger that letter carriers are confronting has to end," Barner's statement said.

___

Follow David Sharp on Twitter @David_Sharp_AP
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BEIRUT (AP)  The Arab Leagues decision to re-admit Syria after shunning it for 12 years was a significant symbolic victory for Damascus, part of a larger regional realignment and an indication of the United States waning role, analysts say.

But it may not immediately bring the reconstruction dollars that Syrian President Bashar Assad is hoping for. Nor is it likely to bring the changes Syrias neighbors want, such as an agreement on refugee returns and moves to reduce drug trafficking.

Syria is returning to the Arab fold even though there is no sign of a resolution to the countrys uprising-turned-civil war, now in its 13th year. The long-stalemated conflict has killed nearly a half million people since March 2011 and displaced half of the countrys pre-war population of 23 million. Multiple mediation attempts have failed.

The league approved Syrias readmission at a closed-door meeting in Cairo on Sunday. It means Assad can attend the leagues summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on May 19, further cementing his move out of pariah status.

WHAT IS THE ARAB LEAGUE AND WHY WAS SYRIA SUSPENDED FROM IT?

The Arab League is a 22-member organization founded in 1945 to promote regional cooperation and resolve disputes. But it is widely seen as toothless and has long struggled to help solve conflicts, especially in the recent era of wars in Syria, Yemen and Libya and a bitter diplomatic rift between Gulf monarchies and Qatar years ago.

The league suspended Syrias membership in 2011 after Assads government cracked down brutally on mass protests against his rule, an uprising that quickly descended into a brutal civil war. Qatar, Saudi Arabia and several other Arab countries funneled support to armed opposition groups trying to overthrow Assad, who was backed by Russia, Iran and militias affiliated with Tehran.

WHY LET IT BACK IN NOW?

After years of deadlock in the war, Assads government has a secure grip on most of the country, particularly most main cities. Opposition groups or U.S.-backed Kurdish forces control most of northern and eastern Syria -- and thats unlikely to change any time soon -- but it has been clear for years now that an opposition overthrow of Assad is virtually impossible.

Arab governments that may have once hoped for that outcome are now deciding its better to reach out.

Were not looking for magical solutions, but what we do know is that the current situation is unsustainable. Its going nowhere, Saudi political scientist Hesham Alghannam said. We dont know when the conflict will end, and boycotting the regime didnt lead to a solution.

In recent years, several Arab countries moved towards reestablishing diplomatic ties, most notably the United Arab Emirates in 2018. Jordan and Syria reopened their borders in 2021. Last month, Saudi Arabia and Syria announced they are moving to reopen embassies and resume flights.

The devastating Feb. 6 earthquake that hit Syria and Turkey also sped up rapprochement, bringing sympathy for Syria. More than 6,000 people were killed in Syria and hundreds of thousands lost their homes. Senior officials from once-hostile countries visited Damascus for the first time in over a decade and sent planeloads of aid.

Approaching Assad under the pretext of the humanitarian crisis was a less controversial way to continue improving ties.

Another boost was the Chinese-brokered deal to reestablish ties between Saudi Arabia and regional rival Iran, which is encouraging them to de-escalate conflicts like Syria and Yemen.

Also, the United States de-prioritization of the Middle East and particularly of the Syria portfolio led regional actors to work out their own deals with Damascus, despite Washingtons objections, said Randa Slim, director of the Conflict Resolution and Track II Dialogues Program at the Washington-based Middle East Institute.

WHICH COUNTRIES WERE FOR AND AGAINST IT?

Saudi Arabia played a key role in pushing for Syrias return to the Arab League, hosting a meeting last month to discuss the topic. Jordan hosted another gathering earlier this month.

Qatar remained the most prominent hold-out. However, after Sundays decision to readmit Damascus, Qatar said in a statement that it will not be an obstacle to an Arab consensus.

Kuwait also has not endorsed normalization, said Bader Al-Saif, assistant professor of history at Kuwait University.

Kuwait "wants to know what the conditions are, what the political solution looks like. Will there be elections? An apology? Anything? he said. Despite these key skeptics, al-Saif said Riyadh will continue to push for Damascus to work for a more robust and integrated Arab order.

One main criticism of the rapprochement is that Assad has made no concessions toward a political deal to resolve Syrias conflict. Without a credible resolution, millions of Syrians who fled abroad  many to neighboring countries  will be too afraid to return.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON THE GROUND?

On the symbolic level, Syrias return to the league signals to opposition Syrians that they are left on their own, Slim said, and confirms to Damascus that its scorched-earth strategy in the war worked.

But on a practical level, a seat at the Arab League is not that powerful, she said.

U.S. and European sanctions will likely prevent Arab countries from significant investments in reconstruction in the near future.

Many Syrians in government-held areas hope to see a benefit in greater trade with the Arab world to help to offset a crippling economic crisis.

That could happen, Alghannam said. If there is stability, I believe there will be an influx of Gulf investment and trade with Syria. Still, he noted, Saudi-Syrian relations were strained even before the Syrian conflict, so confidence-building will take time.

A statement issued by the Arab League after Sundays meeting suggested that Syrias further reintegration will depend on moving towards a political solution to the conflict, combating drug trafficking and facilitating the return of refugees. Gulf countries have also pushed for Damascus to curb Iranian influence in Syria.

Maha Yahya, the director of the Beirut-based Carnegie Middle East Center, said it is unlikely that Syria will meet Arab countries demands.

As such, she said, I honestly dont think this move is going to open the floodgates of support for Syria.
No doubt about it, Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood, leader of the acclaimed Texas Brigade, was one tough son-of-a-gun. As a cavalry officer at Fort Mason in the Texas Hill Country before the war, the young soldier was involved in a skirmish with Comanche and Lipan Apache warriors near the headwaters of Devils River, when an arrow pierced his hand, stapling it to his saddle.

Six years later, on the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg, July 2, 1863, he was struck by shell fragments and lost the use of his left arm. At the Battle of Chickamauga less than three months later, a Minie ball burrowed into his upper right thigh; later that day, the leg was amputated four inches below the hip. Returning to active duty in the spring of 1864, it took three men to lift him into the saddle and strap him in place so he wouldnt fall off.

Hood, the youngest of the Confederate generals, not only was brave. He also was aggressive, reckless and foolhardy. He got men killed.

Fighting against American troops, the native Kentuckian suffered catastrophic defeats outside Atlanta and later at Nashville, his men falling by the thousands. Earlier, at Antietam, he lost half of his men. His division also suffered heavy losses at Gettysburg.

In recognition of his  what shall we call them? exploits?  the War Department in 1942 bequeathed his name to a vital installation that today is the nations largest active-duty armored post, home at any one time to approximately 41,000 soldiers. Fort Hood, in Central Texas, functions as a training center for young men and women joining artillery and anti-tank units.

Perhaps naming military installations in honor of treasonous, slavery-supporting generals, men who renounced their allegiance to this nation and took up arms against it, didnt seem as bizarre in the early 1940s as it does today. After all, the War Between the States was not yet a century old, and Americans north and south were likely to know someone who fought. Even more important, a nation caught up in a world war desperately needed bases in the warm-weather South.

What might have made sense then seems much less compelling today. Hood and his Confederate compatriots need to be remembered  as does the war itself  but they dont deserve to be honored.

When Fort Hood was named, the Army was segregated, and our views about race more ignorant, author Jamie Malanowski wrote in the Dallas Morning News a decade ago. Now Blacks make up about a fifth of the military. The idea that today we ask any of these soldiers to serve at a place named for a defender of a racist slavocracy is deplorable.

Fortunately, Fort Hood is coming to an end  not the post itself, of course, but the name. In a few days the installation named for a traitor will become Fort Cavazos, honoring a native Texan and the first Hispanic American general to be awarded four stars. Eight additional Southern military installations bearing tarnished names of the Confederacy will be renamed in the coming weeks to honor loyal Americans. Men and women of various ethnicities, from various parts of the nation and from different eras, the new honorees represent our best.

General Richard Edward Cavazos, a sixth-generation Texan, was born in Kingsville in 1929 and grew up on the King Ranch. He served in Korea and in Vietnam in a military career that spanned 33 years. In Korea, the bilingual Texan took charge of a regiment of Puerto Ricans, most of whom spoke only Spanish, and honed the inexperienced men into a capable combat force. He gained a reputation as a soldiers soldier, a description that followed him as he rose through the ranks.

In February 1953, he charged through enemy mortar and gunfire, with complete disregard for his personal safety, to retrieve a wounded enemy soldier left behind in an earlier skirmish, thereby earning a Silver Star. Three months later he led three separate charges on enemy positions and evacuated his wounded men five times from the field of battle while he himself was wounded. His exploits earned him his first Distinguished Service Cross.

During the Vietnam War, then-Lt. Col. Cavazos commanded an infantry battalion and in 1967 again was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, often fighting in the field  and frequently leading from the front, the panel making the recommendation wrote. He was recognized for rallying his men through an ambush, organizing a counterattack and leading several maneuvers to repulse and destroy extensive enemy defenses, repeatedly exposing himself to enemy fire in the process.

Cavazos also received two Legions of Merit, five Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart and numerous other medals and awards before retiring in 1984 as commander of all soldiers in the continental United States. He died in San Antonio in 2017.

For the vast majority of men and women who have spent time at Fort Hood in its eight decades of existence, the name was likely just that  a name. Fort Cavazos is something altogether different. From May 9 onward, the new name honors a model American. His fellow Americans, now and into the future, have reason to be proud.
In the face of dire mental health needs, Texans must navigate significant mental health workforce shortages. Social workers constitute a key part of this workforce, making the need for high quality social work education and research critical. Yet, policies under consideration by the Texas Legislature that seek to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and tenure put this quality education and research at serious risk.

During the pandemic, mental health needs in Texas grew to unmanageable levels. In just one striking example, from 2019 to 2022, children and adolescents bringing critical mental health needs  including severe anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts  to Texas Childrens Hospital Centers increased by nearly 800 percent.

Long before COVID, state leaders were concerned with serious mental health workforce shortages. The pandemic exacerbated these concerns; currently, the U.S. government has designated more than 85 percent of all Texas counties as mental health professional shortage areas. According to Mental Health of America, Texas ranks last in the country in access to mental health care. While Texas is an extremely racially and ethnically diverse state, a recent state survey found that 85 percent of Texas mental health workers identify as white, and only one-fifth offer mental health services in a non-English language.

As leaders of educational programs that train tomorrows social work practitioners and researchers, we have the privilege of facilitating social work curriculum and instruction for students and faculty of diverse backgrounds. We are responsible for training and preparing social workers who will meet with people on the worst days of their lives after a significant loss  for example, the loss of income when businesses experienced hardships during the pandemic; the loss of a home after Hurricane Harvey; or the unexpected loss of a loved one from a pandemic, a winter storm or a mass shooting. Peoples struggles are specific to their lives, lives shaped by policies and inequities that can impact families for generations. When peoples struggles increase, social workers are often their first phone call.

At the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work, a top 30 social work program, over 61 percent of the students we teach are students of color. When we honor diversity, equity and inclusion  a long upheld gem of the city of Houston and the University of Houston, a designated Hispanic-serving and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institution  our top-notch faculty colleagues have come to better reflect the student body. Through years of DEI efforts, 43 percent of our faculty colleagues are people of color. (Our experience isnt unusual: Studies show that DEI efforts significantly improve faculty recruitment and retention of people from underrepresented communities.) Many of our faculty and students have journeyed on similar paths to those of our clients and the communities in which we are tasked to work.

Social work is often undervalued and under-resourced in todays society. The preparation students undergo to show up for someone from a different walk of life in their time of need requires an analysis of oppression, power and justice, as well as development of authentic empathy that helps another person feel understood, valued and supported.

To effectively prepare our students to help address Texas monumental mental health needs, diversity, equity and inclusion must be core components of our social work curricula and teaching. In fact, national social work education accreditation standards require this, as do the varying mental health needs of our diverse region and state. Education that doesnt shy away from DEI, that doesnt erase the diverse experiences of our faculty, students, clients and communities, but instead engages these experiences to build our students understanding and awareness, is critical in training social work practitioners and researchers. Such education is essential in preparing social workers to connect with, empathize with, accompany and assist people in their healing processes.

Legislation under consideration in Texas that proposes to eliminate DEI and tenure threatens social work facultys freedom to teach according to their expertise. More importantly, it threatens students ability to feel welcome and valued  that their stories and experiences are critical parts of the learning experience and make them successful far beyond their diplomas. When a student shares a personal experience of discrimination and struggle, or raises research or practice questions rooted in such experiences, faculty must be free to facilitate classroom dialogue that builds connection among our students and connects their experiences with our curricula.

Efforts to remove diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives from Texas public universities jeopardize our freedom to learn and teach according to our subject matter expertise. If successful, these efforts would harm our ability to prepare future social workers to provide the dignified and responsive mental health care and support so desperately needed in our state.
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A Texas House committee unexpectedly passed a bill on Monday that would raise the age to purchase assault-style weapons from 18 to 21.

The vote in the House Select Committee on Community Safety marks lawmakers biggest step yet to implement new gun safety measures after last years mass shooting at a Uvalde elementary school, though it is unlikely to become law. May 24 will mark one year since the massacre, which left 19 children and two teachers dead.

House Speaker Dade Phelan has said the measure does not have the votes to pass the House, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who heads the Senate, has not allowed the upper chamber to consider similar legislation. But the committee vote, which happened on the last possible day, was a symbolic victory for gun safety advocates and Uvalde families. They had gathered at the Capitol on Monday to pressure lawmakers to act.

The 8-5 committee vote also came just days after another mass shooting, in Allen, where at least eight people died. The lone gunman there also used an assault-style weapon, though he was older than 21.

LAST MONTH: Uvalde families forced to wait 13 hours for Texas House hearing on AR-15 changes

Republican Reps. Sam Harless of Spring and Justin Holland of Rockwall joined all six Democrats to advance the measure. The room  filled with gun safety advocates  erupted in cheers after the vote. Relatives of the Uvalde victims, sitting at the front, broke out in tears.

Thank you so very much for hearing our outpour and our cries, Berlinda Arreola, the step-grandmother of 10-year-old Amerie Jo Garza, said to the members who voted in favor of the legislation. For those that didnt, we know who you are, so we will vote correctly when that time comes.

The Uvalde families have traveled to the state Capitol nearly every week for the past five months to beg lawmakers to advance the legislation. They say the measure could have saved their children because the Robb Elementary School gunman was 18 and had purchased his AR-15-style rifle just days after his birthday.

Lexi, baby, you did it, Kimberly Mata-Rubio tweeted alongside a photo of her 10-year-old daughter. Youre so powerful. Youve reached so many hearts.

After the committee adjourned, the family members embraced each other in the hall outside and FaceTimed loved ones who couldn't be there in person.

Three weeks before, the relatives waited for more than 13 hours in a nearby room to deliver emotional testimony on the legislation.

RELATED: Uvalde, Santa Fe families rally for gun safety bills on five-year anniversary of Parkland massacre

Tess didn't have a choice in life or death, testified Veronica Mata, who lost her 10-year-old daughter. 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?

House Bill 2744, authored by Rep. Tracy King of Uvalde, would ban Texans from selling, renting, leasing or giving assault-style rifles above .22 caliber to anyone under age 21. The gun must also be able to accept a detachable magazine.

The legislation includes 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 21 in some circumstances, including at sports shooting ranges and on hunting trips.

The National Rifle Association and other gun rights groups have opposed the legislation.

We represent 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds who are not mass shooters, Tara Mica, a regional lobbyist for the NRA, testified last month. We defend the Constitution. Realistically, a raise-the-age bill is likely to be litigated and found unconstitutional.

The no votes included Rep. Ryan Guillen, the Rio Grande City Republican who chairs the community safety committee, and Rep. Dustin Burrows, the Lubbock Republican who chairs the calendars committee, where the bill heads now. Burrows' office would not say whether he plans to bring HB 2744 for a vote that could advance it to the full House.

The other opponents were GOP Reps. Mark Dorazio of San Antonio, Brooks Landgraf of Odessa and Ellen Troxclair of Austin.

State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a San Antonio Democrat who represents Uvalde, has been pushing similar legislation in the upper chamber, but it hasnt been scheduled for a hearing. Lt. Gov. Patrick has repeatedly shut Gutierrez down on the Senate floor when he has advocated for gun restrictions.

Texas Republican leaders have said any effort to curb gun access would infringe on Second Amendment rights.

Gutierrez held a news conference with the Uvalde families Monday morning, shortly after they rallied with more than 100 gun violence prevention advocates in the Capitol rotunda. The protesters held signs such as Don't Just Pray and Our Safety is Not Debatable as they mourned the victims of the mass shooting in Allen this weekend.

We cannot allow this to be the reality for our families and loved ones, Gutierrez said of the latest massacre. We are going to keep seeing more and more of these incidents until Republicans decide to listen to the will of the voters and pass common-sense gun legislation that keeps guns out of the hands of these killers.

A gunman wielding what appeared to be an assault-style rifle killed eight people Saturday afternoon at Allen Premium Outlets, a mall in a suburb about 20 miles north of Dallas. He injured seven others, three of whom are in critical condition. The victims included children as young as 3.

That shooting occurred just about a week after sheriffs deputies in San Jacinto County reported that a lone gunman armed with an AR-15-style weapon killed five people at his neighbors house.

Republicans expressed grief over the mall shooting, offering prayers and condolences to families who lost loved ones. They praised law enforcement for responding and killing the shooter quickly, but they did not address the weapon he used.

On Fox News on Sunday, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott blamed mental health issues for the horrors, saying shootings are happening both in blue states with strict gun laws and red states with easier access.

He said the Legislature is considering bills to increase penalties for people who possess guns illegally, but he did not express interest in any of the gun control measures that Democrats and advocates have championed over the past year.

We are working to address that anger and violence by going to its root cause, which is addressing the mental health problems behind it, Abbott said. People want a quick solution. The long-term solution here is to address the mental health issue.

Texas, which ranked worst in the nation for mental health care in a recent study, is funneling millions into mental health services this legislative session.

Abbott and other politicians called for similar measures after a gunman killed 10 people at Santa Fe High School in 2018.

While family members from Uvalde and Santa Fe welcome the extra mental health funding, they say its not a solution that will prevent future mass shootings.

At the end of the day, the common denominator here is an AR-15 in a public place, said Manuel Rizo, who lost his 9-year-old niece, Jacklyn Jackie Cazares, in Uvalde.

They don't have any answers to this, Rizo said. They're just going to ignore the facts, issue their thoughts and prayers, go through their checklist and hope that this goes away.

cayla.harris@hearst.com
Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg declared victory in the citys election on Saturday night after leading the race with 61 percent of votes that had been counted.

The race drew several challengers, but the eight people running against Nirenberg didn't appear to be a serious threat to the incumbent, who had more than $330,000 in contributions headed into the campaign season.
The terrorists' kingpin vowed to punish the community for the death of the Fulanis.

Dan Karami, a notorious banditry kingpin operating in Zamfara and Katsina States, has stopped communities from using the Dauran weekly market a week after two Fulanis were reportedly killed extra-judicially.

Dauran, a commercial town, in Zurmi Local Government of Zamfara State has one of the biggest markets in northern Zamfara. It is open for business every Sunday.

Three local traders who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES over the phone and on condition of anonymity said the market was near empty on Sunday.

Though all three sources said soldiers and policemen have taken over strategic places to forestall the anticipated attack, they said several traders stayed away for safety reasons.

"I went to the market but I was told that Dan Karami has stopped residents of some communities loyal to him not to go to the market. So, I quickly returned because it only means the bandits' leader might be planning to attack the market," one of the sources said.

He said he had just returned to his house in Zurmi town.

A youth leader in Zurmi, Muhammad Abubakar, told PREMIUM TIMES over the phone that Mr Karami on Saturday evening informed some residents around his camp that they shouldn't go to the Dauran weekly market.

"I spoke with the village head of one of the areas Dan Karami spoke to and the monarch confirmed that the terrorist told them to instruct their people not to go to the market," Mr Abubakar said over the phone.

"Some of these communities are not hostile to him and he in return has not been attacking them. So, he considers them part of his people."

He said some of the communities are under Rukudawa, Birnin Tsaba, Yan Buki, Mayasa, Kuturu, Kwashabawa, Gidan Jaja and Gurbin Bore.

"It's disheartening because I've seen several of them (traders) returning home with their goods. But we thank God because we've alerted the soldiers and they've gone there so, I'm sure Dan Karami will not come out to attack the community," he said.

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Extra-judicial killing

Mr Abubakar said the terrorists' leader is still in a rage over the killing of two Fulani men by vigilante members in the Dauran market last week.

Mr Karami, who is not Fulani himself, has taken it a duty to protect Fulani. His fighters are all Fulanis.

"Last Sunday, the vigilante group members saw two Fulani young men that they said were bandits and killed them instantly. You know the existing tension between the Hausas and Fulanis here. Ever since that happened last week, we knew one of the bandits' leaders would retaliate," he said.

The police spokesperson in the state, Mohammed Shehu, didn't respond to calls and SMS sent to him on the development.
No cities in Texas require gun owners to carry liability insurance  but a bill passed by the Texas House on Friday would prevent local governments from creating such a rule in the future.

HB 3137, which passed the House in an 84-58 vote on Friday, now heads to the Texas Senate. It was authored by Reps. Carrie Isaac, R-Dripping Springs; Ben Bumgarner, R-Flower Mound; Janie Lopez, R-San Benito; and Briscoe Cain, R-Deer Park.

MORE FROM THE CAPITOL: Hill Country Republican seeks to ban voting sites on college campuses, calling it a safety issue

What would the bill do?

HB 3137 prohibits cities and counties from requiring gun owners to carry liability insurance coverage for damages resulting from negligent or wilful acts involving the use of the firearm.

Why are some lawmakers supporting it?

Even though no gun owners in Texas are required to carry this insurance, lawmakers supporting the bill want to make sure that requirement never happens anywhere in Texas. It's a reaction to a groundbreaking gun harm reduction ordinance in San Jose, California, passed in February 2022 requiring gun owners to have a homeowners, renters or firearms liability insurance policy that covers property damage, bodily injury and other losses resulting from the accidental use of a firearm, according to the Trace.

Defending the bill on the House floor Thursday night, Isaac, one of the authors of the bill, said the California ordinance violates residents' Second Amendment rights, and her bill would protect Texans from a "tyrannical government."

Rep. Jarvis Johnson, D-Houston, pushed back on Isaac's argument, saying that since no such ordinance is in effect in Texas, the bill was "legislating nothing."

"Don't California my Texas," Isaac responded.

What do opponents say?

On Friday, when the bill came up for a final vote in the House, Johnson sharply criticized supporters of the bill for overstepping on the rights of cities and governments to determine their own public safety policies.

"We may as well start telling all mayors and city councils and county commissioners: 'Go away, because we got you. We're going to take care of your city. We're going to take care of your county. We're going to take care of your school,'" Johnson said. "You are rendering your city councils and your mayors ineffective and moot."

MORE ON LOCAL CONTROL: How Texas lawmakers are going after Harris County  and only Harris County  on four fronts

Johnson argued the bill was part of a trend of legislative overreaching, not just a matter of gun safety.

"The tyranny that you have all feared is actually what you have become," Johnson said. "The tyranny that you say you don't want people doing to you or us as a state, you are actually doing it to the smaller cities that don't have the power or the authority."

jen.rice@houstonchronicle.com
Several bills aimed at Harris County elections could be headed to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk in the coming weeks, including one measure that would allow the state to throw out an election if polling places run out of paper  a law that would apply only to Harris County.

Republicans are pushing the legislation forward based on the argument that Harris County officials deliberately created ballot paper shortages in the November election at polling locations in strongly Republican neighborhoods, turning away so many GOP voters that Republican candidates lost elections they otherwise would have won. But some of those statements didn't check out.

MORE ON THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE: Texas Republicans want power to overturn Harris County elections over mishaps at the polls

"This is a really specific bill for a specific issue we saw," state Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, told NewsNation's Dan Abrams in an interview Thursday.

Middleton, whose district includes part of southeast Harris County, explained the reasoning behind the bill he co-authored that would give Abbotts appointed secretary of state the authority to order a new election in Harris County if the county ever runs out of paper at 2 percent or more of its polling sites for over an hour.

CHRONICLE ANALYSIS: No, 121 Harris County polling places did not run out of ballot paper. Blame misleading messaging.

1. "121 polling locations  so that's 16 percent of polling locations in Harris County  experienced paper ballot shortages."

The figure comes from a Jan. 30 KHOU story that reported 121 county polling locations initially did not receive enough ballot paper to cover their voter turnout that day. However, the elections office delivered more paper to locations countywide throughout the day, so many of the locations that initially did not get enough paper did receive deliveries before a shortage occurred.

The Chronicle conducted an analysis of time-stamped voting data for those locations to check for signs of paper shortages, such as a gap in voting that coincided with the time the location would have run out of its initial paper allocation if additional paper was not delivered in time. The vast majority did not show signs that they actually ran out of paper.

The Chronicle did find that around 20 polling places ran out of paper  some for only 15 minutes and others for up to three hours.

CHRONICLE INVESTIGATION: GOP leaders say Harris County's ballot shortage was targeted at Republicans. Here's what the data says.

2. "Thousands of people were disenfranchised because of that."

There is no evidence that thousands of people were unable to vote. Harris County uses a countywide voting system, meaning voters could cast ballots at any of 782 polling locations on Election Day instead of being restricted to their home precincts. Voters turned away from one location due to a lack of paper could go to another polling place, typically about a mile away. In over eight hours of public hearings in the Senate, no one testified that they had difficulty casting a ballot in Harris County.

MISLEADING MAP: Texas lawmakers are using a map filled with issues as proof of voter suppression in Harris County

3. "You have to think there was maybe a partisan design to this to deny ballot paper to particular areas."

In the interview, Abrams objected to Middleton's claim, saying there's no evidence the paper shortage was intentionally orchestrated.

"There's no evidence that this was done on purpose," Abrams said. "That seems like a dangerous thing to start suggesting."

A heat map created by a frequent Republican Party data consultant makes it appear that around 90 percent of polls that initially did not receive enough ballot paper to cover their voter turnout that day were located in heavily Republican areas.

However, a Chronicle analysis found that out of those polling places, 51 percent were located in precincts that went for former President Donald Trump in 2020: 44 locations where Trump won by more than 10 points and 17 in precincts Trump won by fewer than 10 points. Forty-seven locations were in precincts President Joe Biden won by more than 10 points and 11 were in precincts Biden won by fewer than 10 points.

Middleton's office did not respond to a request for comment.

jen.rice@houstonchronicle.com
WFO LAKE CHARLES Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Northwestern Cameron Parish in southwestern Louisiana...

Southwestern Calcasieu Parish in southwestern Louisiana...

Orange County in southeastern Texas...

* Until 430 PM CDT.

* At 359 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Vidor, moving

east at 35 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Orange, Vidor, Bridge City, West Orange, Rose City, Pine Forest,

Pinehurst, Toomey and Orangefield.

This includes the following highways...

Interstate 10 in Texas between mile markers 880 and 857.

Interstate 10 in Louisiana between mile markers 1 and 5.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Prepare immediately for large hail and damaging winds. People outside

should move immediately to shelter inside a strong building. Stay

away from windows.

Large hail and damaging winds and continuous cloud to ground

lightning is occurring with this storm. Move indoors immediately.

Lightning is one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can

hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of southeastern

Burleson, Grimes, Brazos, eastern Washington, western Montgomery,

northwestern San Jacinto, southwestern Houston, southern Madison,

northern Waller, western Polk, Walker and northwestern Harris

Counties through 500 PM CDT...

At 359 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along

a line extending from near Snook to near Anderson to near Willis.

Movement was northeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and half inch 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...

College Station, Bryan, northwestern Conroe, Huntsville, Navasota,

Hempstead, Willis, Prairie View, Madisonville, Pinehurst, Washington,

Hockley, Waller, Panorama Village, Magnolia, Somerville, New Waverly,

Pine Island, Point Blank and Montgomery.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms and may lead

to localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio

stations and available television stations for additional information

and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

LAT...LON 3097 9619 3093 9564 3076 9509 2996 9584

3010 9621 3036 9667

TIME...MOT...LOC 2059Z 215DEG 18KT 3052 9644 3054 9592 3044 9556

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service San Angelo TX

408 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR NORTH CENTRAL NOLAN COUNTY IS

CANCELLED...

The severe thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out of

the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

west central Texas.

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 430 PM CDT

FOR SOUTHERN FISHER COUNTY...

At 407 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Longworth,

moving northeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe storm will be near...

Roby around 415 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Busby

and Capitola.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM CDT THIS EVENING FOR

STRONG WINDS AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR THE OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE

AND THE NORTHWEST HALF 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 until 9 PM CDT this evening.

* Affected Area...In Oklahoma...Cimarron...Texas and Beaver. In

Texas...Dallam...Sherman...Hansford...Ochiltree...Hartley...

Moore...Hutchinson...Oldham...Potter and Deaf Smith.

* 20 Foot Winds...Southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

* Relative Humidity...As low as 5 percent.

* Red Flag Threat Index...4 TO 8.

* Timing...UNTIL 9 PM.

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.

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Northeastern Fisher County in west central Texas...

* Until 445 PM CDT.

* At 410 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Roby, moving

northeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...

Rotan around 420 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Hitson.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Foard,

Knox and west central Baylor Counties through 445 PM CDT...

At 411 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9

miles west of Benjamin, moving northeast at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny size hail.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Locations impacted include...

Benjamin, Truscott, Gilliland, and Vera.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3352 9999 3369 9999 3391 9980 3387 9953

3366 9942 3341 9988

TIME...MOT...LOC 2111Z 227DEG 17KT 3355 9995

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
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Abuja  The Director General of the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, has expressed worry over the dangers posed by pesticides imported into the country.

She said the development is of immense concern to the agency.

A statement signed by Adeyeye said that NAFDAC will collaborate with research institutes in the conduct of research and scientific data generation on pesticides to enable the agency make evidence-based decisions and policies.

She said that there are plans to review the registration of pesticides that are applied both indoors and outdoors for the management of pests, vector-borne diseases and for crop protection.

In addition to the Ban of Paraquat, Chlorpyrifos and Atrazine with effective dates from January 1, 2024, November 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025 respectively, Adeyeye said the agency has also initiated the action plan for the ban/phase-outs of 12 active ingredients and the reclassification of four others as shown in the tables below.

The availability of alternatives in the country were put into consideration to ensure that stakeholders, most especially farmers, will not be affected by the decisions taken.

"The dangers posed by pesticides are of immense concern to the agency and there have been recent concerns from stakeholders such as the report of the study conducted by Heinrich Boll Foundation, a non-governmental organization, that claimed that 40 per cent of pesticides used in Nigeria had been banned in the EU.

"There was also an alert received from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) cautioning on the possibility that the European Union and United Kingdom were exporting banned Neonicotinoid pesticides to Nigeria and other poorer countries," she said.

According to her, emphasis was placed on Chlorpyrifos and its variants due to their harmful effects on humans, animals, beneficial insects and the environment.

"They are sometimes impregnated in textiles, paints, carpets and treated wood to control pests and fungi.

"However, the toxicity associated with the misuse and abuse of pesticides is worrisome as it affects food safety and food security.

"The toxicity of pesticides is managed through stringent regulatory activities to reduce severe health implications on humans, crops and the environment. This can be achieved through awareness and continual sensitization of stakeholders," she said.

Adeyeye said that safeguarding the health of the nation is paramount to the agency, adding that this has necessitated the review and analysis of the list of registered pesticide and agrochemical active ingredients in the NAFDAC Registered Product Automated Database (NARPAD) vis-a-vis actives banned, non-approved or restricted in the European Union, other countries or by relevant international organizations.

The NAFDAC DG said that the outcome of the review was shared with stakeholders at a three-day virtual stakeholders engagement held on the 22nd, 24th and 29th of November 2022.

She said the meeting focused on the proposed phase-out/ban of the active ingredients and had in attendance, proponent holders of marketing authorizations, non-governmental organizations, associations (All Farmers Association of Nigeria, CropLife Nigeria, Nigeria Agro-Input Dealers Association etc), ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and research institutes, amongst others.

At the end of the meeting, she said that it was agreed that: pesticide and agrochemical importers and manufacturers would be advised to institute stewardship plans (such as Post Marketing Surveillance and research) in their companies; and

NAFDAC to collaborate with research institutes in the conduct of research and scientific data generation on pesticides to enable the agency make evidence-based decisions and policies.

Adeyeye said that NAFDAC will intensify post marketing surveillance nationwide.

According to her, "There should be continual sensitization and education of relevant stakeholders on the safe and responsible use of pesticides.

"NAFDAC is to engage with other sister agencies (Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Standards Organization of Nigeria; National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency; and Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service) to ensure synergy in the regulation of pesticide and agrochemical products."

NAFDAC Raises Concern over Danger Posed by Imported Pesticides

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

THE Director General of the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, has expressed worry over the dangers posed by pesticides imported into the country.

She said the development is of immense concern to the agency.

A statement signed by Adeyeye said that NAFDAC will collaborate with research institutes in the conduct of research and scientific data generation on pesticides to enable the agency make evidence-based decisions and policies.

She said that there are plans to review the registration of pesticides that are applied both indoors and outdoors for the management of pests, vector-borne diseases and for crop protection.

In addition to the Ban of Paraquat, Chlorpyrifos and Atrazine with effective dates from January 1, 2024, November 1, 2024, and January 1, 2025 respectively, Adeyeye said the agency has also initiated the action plan for the ban/phase-outs of 12 active ingredients and the reclassification of four others as shown in the tables below.

The availability of alternatives in the country were put into consideration to ensure that stakeholders, most especially farmers, will not be affected by the decisions taken.

"The dangers posed by pesticides are of immense concern to the agency and there have been recent concerns from stakeholders such as the report of the study conducted by Heinrich Boll Foundation, a non-governmental organization, that claimed that 40 per cent of pesticides used in Nigeria had been banned in the EU.

"There was also an alert received from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) cautioning on the possibility that the European Union and United Kingdom were exporting banned Neonicotinoid pesticides to Nigeria and other poorer countries," she said.

According to her, emphasis was placed on Chlorpyrifos and its variants due to their harmful effects on humans, animals, beneficial insects and the environment.

"They are sometimes impregnated in textiles, paints, carpets and treated wood to control pests and fungi.

"However, the toxicity associated with the misuse and abuse of pesticides is worrisome as it affects food safety and food security.

"The toxicity of pesticides is managed through stringent regulatory activities to reduce severe health implications on humans, crops and the environment. This can be achieved through awareness and continual sensitization of stakeholders," she said.

Adeyeye said that safeguarding the health of the nation is paramount to the agency, adding that this has necessitated the review and analysis of the list of registered pesticide and agrochemical active ingredients in the NAFDAC Registered Product Automated Database (NARPAD) vis-a-vis actives banned, non-approved or restricted in the European Union, other countries or by relevant international organizations.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Nigeria Health Food and Agriculture By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

The NAFDAC DG said that the outcome of the review was shared with stakeholders at a three-day virtual stakeholders engagement held on the 22nd, 24th and 29th of November 2022.

She said the meeting focused on the proposed phase-out/ban of the active ingredients and had in attendance, proponent holders of marketing authorizations, non-governmental organizations, associations (All Farmers Association of Nigeria, CropLife Nigeria, Nigeria Agro-Input Dealers Association etc), ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and research institutes, amongst others.

At the end of the meeting, she said that it was agreed that: pesticide and agrochemical importers and manufacturers would be advised to institute stewardship plans (such as Post Marketing Surveillance and research) in their companies; and

NAFDAC to collaborate with research institutes in the conduct of research and scientific data generation on pesticides to enable the agency make evidence-based decisions and policies.

Adeyeye said that NAFDAC will intensify post marketing surveillance nationwide.

According to her, "There should be continual sensitization and education of relevant stakeholders on the safe and responsible use of pesticides.

"NAFDAC is to engage with other sister agencies (Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; Standards Organization of Nigeria; National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency; and Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service) to ensure synergy in the regulation of pesticide and agrochemical products."
The Crane Museum of Papermaking is located in the 1844 rag room. Changes in security on the Crane campus means the museum has to move to be open to the public.

Crane Paper Museum Seeking New Location

DALTON, Mass.  The Crane Museum is looking for a new home to house its extensive collection gathered over the last hundred years.

When Crane NXT separated from Crane Holdings , it upgraded all of its security operations, Crane Currency Global Marketing Director Tod Niedeck said.

The museum is located at 32 Pioneer St. in an ivy-covered stone structure dating from 1844 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was the rag room for the first Crane mills.

But as Crane grew, so did its campus and getting to the small museum of papermaking meant driving through the industrial operations.

The need to keep the materials secure means the adjusted the security parameters no longer allowed for visitors on the property.

The company is trying to separate the industrial operation from the welcoming and inviting atmosphere that the museum wants to create, Niedeck said.

The museum's first full-time director, Jenna Ware, has been in search of a new home for the collection.

The Stone Mill houses office space, Crane and papermaking exhibits as well as the museum's archives, which are accessible by appointment for research.

When the Connecticut-based firm Crane Co. purchased the 200-year-old banknotes operation for $800 million in 2017, it called museum a gem and expressed wanting to expand its outreach. Ware was hired in 2019.

Even with the separation from Crane Holdings, the company's effort to care for its collection and contribute to the community continues, Ware said.

"In a perfect world, no one would ever have to leave their original space, but I've been through it and I know it can happen really successfully," Ware said.

Other organizations and museums have successfully changed locations without losing its legacy, she said.

While in search for a new location, the museum is continuing its community programming developed as a result of the pandemic.

The museum had to close and reopen on a number of occasions but continued to share Crane history by going to retirement homes, schools, and other organizations.

Zenas Crane moved from the Boston area back in 1801 and opened Crane & Co., which concentrated on fine papermaking and currency.

Crane has been a major part of the Berkshire County community for hundreds of years and has held the exclusive contract to supply paper for U.S. banknotes since 1879.

The Cranes became an influential family not only being owners of one of the leading suppliers of U.S. currency but also helped initiate museums like Berkshire Museum. W. Murray Crane, a grandson of Zenas, was governor and U.S. senator.

The original mill attached to the rag room was demolished in the early 1900s and the stone mill became a corporate museum in 1930, being part of the first wave of American corporate museums that opened in that time period, Ware said.

Although the museum has to change locations, the brick and mortar building is not the heart of the legacy; rather it is the tour guides who share stories about their experiences working at the mill, she said.

"I mean, if somebody has an empty mill building, and they want to give me a room, I'm there but honestly, the No. 1 priority for me is to keep these amazing tour guides," Ware said.

"That direct story from somebody who worked in the mills for 40 years and knows how to make paper, and did training for the Secret Service on how paper is made, to me is absolutely essential. That's the heart of what we do. And that's what connects to our audience. And that, for me, that really needs to stay and is staying."

There is still the potential that the museum will be able to end up in a space that was originally Crane because there are a lot of spaces in the area that used to be Crane buildings.

"I'm very much interested in paid spaces that connect to the company, or connect to papermaking," Ware said.

With any luck the museum will remain in Dalton but Ware does not want to limit any ideas so if somebody has a location that they feel aligns with the museum's legacy they are encouraged to reach out to her.

"There are a lot of great mill spaces that were papermaking mills, woolen mills, all sorts of spaces like that are all over Massachusetts, but all over this area, which is where I'd be looking," Ware said.

It is unclear how long it will take to find a new space for the museum but Ware has been meeting with people to see what opportunities there are.

"We want to be a space where we're working well with people around us, and where we're well suited to the space. So I think as it's a corporate museum, we have the luxury of trying to find a space that's really wonderful and excellent for the museum," Ware said.

"And then in the meantime, going out into the community, doing events, going to schools, going into retirement homes, going to public events to get back to the communities. So I think it could be very quick, but I also appreciate that the company is taking the time to do it."
Area firefighters respond to the report of a structure fire at Craneville Elementary School in Dalton. The Dalton Fire Department has been using a loaned Boston truck.

Craneville Elementary Evacuated After Smoke Fills Building



Parents line up to be reunited with their children at the Stationery Factory, the school's emergency location.

DALTON, Mass.  Pupils at Craneville Elementary School were evacuated from the school on Monday after two motors in the heating and ventilation system burnt out and sent smoke through the building.

According to a message to parents from Superintendent of Schools Leslie Blake-Davis, staff noticed an odor at about 10:45 a.m. that "warranted a fire drill."

"It has been recommended by emergency personnel that students and staff relocate to the Stationary Factory (this is our emergency relocation site) to allow emergency personnel to ensure the issue is fully resolved before students re-enter the building," she wrote.

Two children were reportedly taken to Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield by Lanesborough Ambulance for headaches.

"We didn't actually have a fire here today, they had a power outage and they lost a phase on the electrical system and two HVAC motors burned out and sent an odor and smoke haze through the whole building," said Dalton Fire Lt. Zackery Morrissey on Monday afternoon.

The smoke set off the box alarm, alerting the Fire Department.

He said school officials were advised to release the students because of the severity of the problem wasn't known.

"We had smoke in the furthest wing to through the whole school," Morrissey said. "So it was kind of hard to figure out which wing, what was going on, and we had to search every classroom and we're still not even done with this."

The lieutenant said the first firefighters were on the scene at 10:46 a.m. and he immediately hit a first alarm assignment calling for mutual aid. Other units arrived only minutes later.

"We did an emergency evacuation of the whole school and everybody's being sent home or bussed home, per the school's procedure," Morrissey said.

Parents were lined up at the Stationery Factory after noon to pick up their children.

In addition to Dalton Fire, Dalton Police and Dalton, Hinsdale and Lanesborough ambulances responded.
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have rescued 58 kidnap victims held hostage at Udulu Forest in Gegu LGA of Kogi State, bordering Sardauna Forest in Nasarawa State and other identified kidnappers' dens in communities contiguous to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

However, one of the victims, Tama Jonathan, unfortunately sustained injury during the rescue operation and died on the spot.

His remains have subsequently been released to his family for burial. The other 58 rescued victims were being stabilised in an hospital and would be reunited with their families thereafter.

The Police said the bandits/kidnappers on sighting the security team coordinated by the Police, fired at the security team, which resulted in a shootout duel.

The bandits were overpowered and they escaped with various degrees of bullet injuries leaving behind their victims.

FCT Police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said the rescue was part of efforts by the FCT Command leadership, in a sustained joint operation with other security agencies, vigilantes and hunters from the various local communities, to combat violent crimes in the FCT, rescue victims and bring perpetrators to book.

She also said the Commissioner of Police, FCT Police Command, CP Haruna Garba, has vowed that, while effort was being sustained to prevent any further threat to safety and security of residents, the command would also not relent in ensuring the rescue of any resident held hostage by criminals and as well bring the perpetrators to book.

The commissioner of police called for the cooperation of residents, especially in being security conscious and giving credible information to the Police.
SAP South East Asia (SEA) today announced the launch of GROW with SAP, a new offering to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt cloud ERP that enables speed, predictability and continuous innovation, on the back of its SEA Partner Success Summit 2023, attended by over 300 partners across the region.

In the photo (L-R) Krit Virojsailee, Managing Director I AM Consulting, Vipin Chandran, Chief Partner Officer SAP SEA, Verena Siow, President, and Managing Director SAP SEA and Christophe Derdeyn, Partner and Director Delaware Singapore & Delaware International

GROW with SAP also includes SAP Business Technology Platform so customers can define their own processes in a cloud-native way using SAP Build. With the help of SAP Build solutions, business users can create enterprise apps, automate processes and design business sites without writing code, an important asset for those closest to the business who can create the solutions they need.

According to a SAP study, more than two-thirds of SMEs say that digital transformation is critical for their organizations survival. More than ever, organizations need knowledgeable business partners that can help guide them through their transformation journey, help them navigate changes with agility, and help achieve lifetime business value from their investments.

SMEs are the backbone of the SEA economy, making up nearly 99% of all businesses, contributing to 90% of employment and nearly 60% of GDP in many ASEAN countries. Together with our ecosystem of partners across SEA, we can empower SMEs to be the growth engines of the digital and experience economy by harnessing the proven benefits of GROW with SAP, achieve continuous innovation to retain their competitive advantage in a dynamic market, and unleash their potential for new international business opportunities, said Verena Siow, President and Managing Director, SAP SEA.

T-PRIDE was established to contribute towards building community resilience, preparedness and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While we are in the post pandemic era, we continue to safeguard the community and stay prepared. By moving to the cloud and leveraging GROW with SAP as our digital core, we are able to enhance the way we operate with greater governance and visibility, while continuing to deliver on our mission. Having an integrated solution will ensure we can manage future deployments effectively and processes/governance are aligned. With an unifying and data-driven approach to process analysis and improved decision-making, we continue to meet the evolving needs of our communities and transform lives for a more inclusive and resilient world, said Judy Hoie, CEO, Temasek Public Resilience Infectious Disease Emergency (T-PRIDE).

SAP has over 50 years of expertise to help enable companies of all sizes become sustainable, intelligent enterprises, and we understand what it takes to help customers realize value from adopting cloud ERP, how they can leverage SAP cloud solutions to scale and support even the most extensive product lines, complex service offerings, and ambitious sustainability goals, added Siow.

Businesses know that there are significant benefits from digital transformation and move to the cloud, but uncertainty holds them back, said Christophe Derdeyn, Partner and Director Delaware Singapore & Delaware International. GROW with SAP shows customers we can meet their budget and business needs. When they see the components and services clearly mapped out, moving to the cloud will no longer feel like such a scary leap, but a controlled, step-by-step process. Also, its the assurance that theyre in good hands that makes all the difference with SAP and Partner ecosystem.

SAP combined three of its strongest assets into a powerhouse program to help customers move to the cloud, said Krit Virojsailee, I AM Consulting Managing Director. Our customers can scale their business with SAP S/4HANA Cloud. They can innovate with SAP Business Technology Platform. And the preconfigured best practice content  thats 50 years of industry knowledge  speeds up implementation and will give them a leg up on their competition!

For more information about GROW with SAP for Partners, visit the SAP Partner Portal now.
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Lionel Richie divided audience opinions after his performance at the Coronation Concert on Sunday evening (7 May).

The pop and soul icon was one of the headliners at the event, honouring the official accession to the throne of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Richie, 73, took to the stage with two of his most famous songs: Easy Like Sunday Morning and All Night Long.

Supported by a full orchestra, Richie sang to the crowd of 20,000 people ahead of his fellow American Idol judge, Katy Perry, who appeared as headliner minutes later.

Those who watched the concert from afar did not hesitate to share their opinions on Richies performance. While plenty of people were excited for the Dancing on the Ceiling star to bring his classic hits to the proceedings, some viewers opined that his voice sounded different to their expectations.

Is someone disguised as Lionel Richie because that is not his voice! Sounds completely different, one fan tweeted.

Elsewhere, another person wrote: Where is the real Lionel Richies voice?? Sounds like hes been possessed by Elton John.

Whose voice is that coming out of Lionel Richie because it cant be his own wondered another.

Lionel Richie (Getty Images)

Yet the sound of Richies voice at the concert wasnt noticeably different to others, many of whom were charmed by his renditions.

He smashed it! Im so proud that Lionel and Katy are representing the US, wrote an American viewer on social media.

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I have seen Lionel Richie in concert twice, and he is such a great showman, one viewer recalled, adding: He has a wonderful way of connecting with his audience.

In 2020, Richie spoke out on how a mystery throat illness in the Nineties meant that he had to undergo four surgeries.

You dont want anybody fooling around down there. This is your identity, he told People of his nervousness surrounding the procedures, adding, I never really thought that it would end.

Elsewhere at the Coronation Concert, Prince George and Princess Charlotte were entertained by Miss Piggy and Kermit, while Katy Perrys outfit choice sparked comparisons with a particular piece of confectionery.

You can read The Independents review here.
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The Weeknd is done being The Weeknd.

Abel Tesfaye has performed under the monicker since 2009, winning four Grammy Awards and selling over 75 million records along the way.

In a new interview with W Magazine, the artist revealed his plans to ditch the alter-ego after one last hurrah.

Its getting to a place and a time where Im getting ready to close the Weeknd chapter, he said.

Ill still make music, maybe as Abel, maybe as The Weeknd. But I still want to kill The Weeknd. And I will. Eventually. Im definitely trying to shed that skin and be reborn.

He continued: The album Im working on now is probably my last hurrah as The Weeknd. This is something that I have to do. As The Weeknd, Ive said everything I can say.

Tesfaye appeared in the interview alongside his costar Lily-Rose Depp in Sam Levinsons forthcoming HBO drama, The Idol.

The Weeknd and Lily-Rose Depp in The Idol (HBO)

Film and TV is a new creative muscle for me, Tesfaye told W. I dont release my music until I think it is great. Why would this be any different?

The series has already stoked controversy after a Rolling Stone investigation suggested that the series had gone disgustingly off the rails, citing a number of troubling claims about proposed storylines.

At the time, Tesfaye brushed off the report in a tweet mocking the publication.

In a statement sent to The Independent, HBO wrote: The creators and producers of The Idol have been working hard to create one of HBOs most exciting and provocative original programs. The initial approach on the show and production of the early episodes, unfortunately, did not meet HBO standards so we chose to make a change.

Director Amy Seimetz departed the project in April 2022 and was replaced by Levinson after several of the episodes had already been shot.

HBOs statement continued: Throughout the process, the creative team has been committed to creating a safe, collaborative, and mutually respectful working environment, and last year, the team made creative changes they felt were in the best interest of both the production and the cast and crew. We look forward to sharing The Idol with audiences soon.

The Idol premieres on HBO and Max on 4 June at 9pm in the US and is expected on Sky and NOW in the UK in the same month.
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Royal music events are a peculiar beast. Last years Platinum Party at the Palace was an eclectic affair, with the lineup  George Ezra, Elton John, Rod Stewart  seemingly pulled at random out of a royals-friendly ballot. The coronation concert, which comes a day after King Charles III and Queen Camilla were crowned at Westminster Abbey, is very much the same.

Of course, there have been plenty of rumours that the reason last nights billing at Windsor Castle is a hodgepodge of US pop, classical and dad-rock is because organisers struggled to attract the real megastars. Among those said to have turned down the event were Ed Sheeran, Adele, Elton John, Harry Styles and the Spice Girls. Oddly, Sheeran is now filling in for Katy Perry as a judge on American Idol, but his absence is more likely to do with the fact that hes only just disentangled himself from winning a major plagiarism lawsuit. Others, meanwhile, might have been less keen, given each star is limited to just one song. Its hard to imagine kicking Adele off the stage after a solitary Hello.

So instead we have Olly Murs, who bounds up and down the purpose-built stage like a toddler whos eaten too many Haribo. Lang Lang, by comparison, is dignified yet passionate as he plays a grand piano medley of film soundtrack classics, including Somewhere Over the Rainbow. He later introduces Nicole Scherzinger for her debut live performance of Reflection, from Disneys live-action remake of Mulan. Its a truly mesmerising moment, reminding us that Scherzinger is capable of some incredible vocal gymnastics (even if she is weighed down by some very flashy diamonds).

In the same vein as the Platinum Party, last nights event is a breathless onslaught of one inexplicably random performance after the other. Tiwa Savage is introduced by our host, Hugh Bonneville, who sounds hilariously unconfident describing her as the Queen of Afrobeats. Any sense of dignity from the Downton Abbey star is lost as the stage is crashed by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, the latter torn between wanting to sit in the royal box and finding a member of the nobility to elope with.

A wobbly Lionel Richie warbles Easy Like Sunday Morning (what else?) at the grand piano before someone recharges his batteries in time for a rendition of All Night Long, which gets everyone (Charles and Cam included) up and dancing. Prince William, delivering a poignant tribute to his father, just about gets away with a gag about not going on all night.

In a nod to King Charless love of the arts, we also get a ballet and theatre medley starring Doctor Whos Ncuti Gatwa, who makes for a wonderfully charismatic Romeo in a resplendent gold suit. Celebrities also pop up at random on the big screen  Richard E Grant, Alan Titchmarsh, Hugh Jackman, Winnie the Pooh  to share their favourite things about our new monarch, from his passion for the environment to his love of painting.

Never one for subtlety, headliner Katy Perry turns up in a Quality Street wrapper and belts out Roar beneath a CGI tigers head. Her fellow headliners, Richie and Take That, simply cant compete, but they do their best. Take That are wheeled out right at the end, some of them looking oddly frail as they dad-dance to the insipid ballad Greatest Day, made even worse, if that were possible, by superstar DJ Calum Scotts tinny synth-based remix. Mark Owens in particular seems to struggle to hit the right notes, sounding more like the dearly departed Bernard Cribbins than a Nineties boyband star.

Theres absolutely no clear theme to the evening. Take That are suddenly engulfed by a flock of Katy Perry lookalikes, resplendent in their very own Quality Street wrappers. A giant whale made up of colour-coded drones swims through the sky. Tom Cruise offers Charles a spot as his wingman. Its no Glastonbury, sure. But it was a lot of fun.
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At least 50 elementary school students were left sick and eight others had to be hospitalised in Japan after initial reports said gas could be smelled at the school premises.

Local authorities said the students fell sick at the school in western Japans Osaka prefecture, but added that none of them are in serious condition. The authorities also said there was no leak inside the school building after reports of the smell had emerged.

Firefighters and several ambulances were sent to the Kamei Elementary School in the city of Yao at around 10am local time on Monday after they received reports of the gas smell.

School children were also temporarily evacuated from the school premises, located in a residential area, after the incident.

Local news reports said a gas odour was detected at the school. It was later clarified, however, that there was no leak inside the school.

The Japan Times quoted officials at the Yao police station as saying that no suspicious object was found at the school. Authorities did not reveal any reasons why the children fell sick.

An investigation, however, is ongoing.

There was panic at the school premises as students and their parents milled about the courtyard, watching firefighters move in and out of the building.

I came because I was worried, said a mother whose son is a sixth-grade student at the school, adding she wanted to bring him home quickly, the Japan Times reported.
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Vietnam broke weather records on Sunday after the temperature in the countrys northern Thanh Hoa province soared to 44.1C.

Authorities warned locals against stepping outside during day time, as the mercury surpassed the previous record of 43.4C set in 2019. Experts warned that the climate crisis is exacerbating adverse weather observed in the region.

Nguyen Thi Lan, a farmer, told AFP that due to the rapidly increasing temperature, they were forced to begin work earlier than usual. We have had to finish before 10am to avoid the heat, she was quoted as saying by the agency.

Climate change expert Nguyen Ngoc Huy told AFP that Vietnams new record was worrying in the context of climate change and global warming.

I believe this record will be repeated many times, he said. It confirms that extreme climate models are being proven to be true.

Other countries in southeast Asia have also been observing a sudden spike in temperatures. A town in east Myanmar reported a scorching temperature of 43.8C, the highest in a decade, while Thailand also recorded 44.6C in the western Mak province, according to the BBC.

The rapidly escalating temperature in Thailand, ranging from a lower 30C to upper 40C since late March, also drew concern from prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha last month.

In neighbouring Laos, the city of Luang Prabang witnessed the temperature rise to 43.5C on Saturday, breaking the previous national record of 42.7C set last month, reported CNN, citing weather historian Maximiliano Herrera.

While south and southeast Asia observe temperature spikes in April and May before monsoon showers bring relief, unprecedented heat is becoming more uncomfortably common as the climate crisis intensifies.

A 2022 study published by researchers at Harvard University and the University of Washington found dangerous levels of heat plaguing the northern hemisphere are likely to hit most of the world between three and 10 times more often by the turn of the century.
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An entrepreneur turned climate activist is walking more than 2,500 miles across Europe as part of his mission to remove his lifetime carbon footprint.

Craig Cohon set off from London on January 3 and is due to reach Istanbul on June 4, which coincides with his 60th birthday.

The 59-year-old has already walked around 2,100 miles through 11 countries, alongside 77 other political and climate activists.

Craig Cohon, 59, is walking 2,500 miles from London to Istanbul (Walk it Back)

The mammoth endeavour is part of the global environmental campaign Mr Cohon founded called Walk It Back, which aims to encourage international dialogue on carbon dioxide removal and to take thousands of tonnes of carbon out of the atmosphere.

The London-based activist, who was born in Chicago and raised in Canada, was previously a global brand manager for Coca-Cola, launching the company in Russia, as well as the co-owner of Cirque du Soleil Russia for eight years.

He said his concern for common humanity propelled him to embark on his walk across the continent.

Speaking to the Independent during the walk, he said: I felt like I wasnt doing enough as a human. I realised I had done some damage to the environment.

I wanted to go on a listening journey across Europe to meet people where they are and understand how important climate issues are.

Mr Cohon poses for a photo as he enters the Hungarian border (Walk It Back)

When asked why he chose to walk thousands of miles in order to raise awareness, he said his mission is not advocacy, but inquiry.

Its not about me prophesying, he explained. Everyone knows the state of the climate. But I want to accelerate our connection to common humanity.

I am becoming more inspired by the people I meet every day, Mr Cohon continued. When I speak to an old farmer in Serbia who talks about how the climate affects his crops and his family, I want to do more for the climate.

People think walking is slow and takes too much time, but it is the opposite. It connects you faster to people, to the environment, to conversations and to humanity.

The activist has already walked approximately 2,000 miles on his listening journey across the continent (Walk It Back)

The Canadian businessman writes on his website: You should really dislike me. I mean really dislike me. Im one of those baby boomers from a wealthy country that has contributed to the climate mess we are in today.

Mr Cohon, who currently lives on a boat on the River Thames, said he is the first person to remove their carbon footprint.

The activist has committed over $1 million in carbon removal infrastructure finance to remove all 8,147 tonnes of carbon he has emitted since he was born.

Committed to paying back the last 60 years of his life to humanity, he has even invested his personal pension fund in companies that are involved in carbon recapture.

And through Walk It Back, he plans to set in motion spin-off campaigns which will aim to remove 100,000 tonnes of carbon.

Mr Cohon said his curiosity about common humanity inspired him to walk across Europe (Walk It Back)

My debt to humanity has been taken care of, he said.

I initially felt guilty when I started this walk, he added. But 120 days later as I enter 3,500km, that emotion is shifting to immense gratitude. I am grateful to be in a place where I can keep on learning about climate issues and how we get ourselves out of this consumer and consumption loop.

On this listening journey, I see people from all walks of life struggling with the day-to-day. I listen to mayors, farmers, young people and old people.

Four children walked with me in Serbia. They said I inspired them to walk, Ive had mayors of cities walk with me. We all have something to teach each other.
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Exasperated Anne Hathaway fans are defending the Devil Wears Prada star after she was accused of being rude in a resurfaced interview.

The clip shows the US actor declining to discuss a conversation she had with Vogues editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, and laughing at the idea that she would ever share details with a journalist.

However, fans of the Princess Diaries star have jumped to her defence and dismissed the complaints on social media.

The interview in question took place last October at ELLE magazines Women in Hollywood event, after Hathaway wore an outfit that resembled her character Andy in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada.

The actor wore a black turtleneck with a brown crocodile skirt and jacket to the Michael Kors show at New York Fashion Week, complete with bangs. She sat next to Wintour during the show in September.

Asked whether she and Wintour had ever spoken about the movie  in which Meryl Streep plays Miranda Priestly, a character modelled after Wintour  Hathaway confirmed they had.

However, when the reporter pushed for information about what the legendary Vogue editor has shared, Hathaway replied: Why would I tell you? before laughing loudly.

The interviewer said: Because Im a fan and I need to know.

No, but you werent there, Hathaway said, shaking her head slightly.

The interviewer said they respected Hathaways decision not to divulge her and Wintours interaction, and the actor thanked her.

A clip of the interview, which stops just before the interviewer said: I respect that has resurfaced on social media with some viewers branding Hathaway as rude.

On TikTok, some people commented that Hathaway was being passive aggressive or was displaying mean girl vibes.

But her fans took to Twitter to defend the Love and Other Drugs star, who also wowed them with her appearance at the Met Gala last week, and said she was well within her right not to share a private conversation.

Its a personal moment she didnt want to share?? one person wrote. Maybe if she was consistently doing it to certain people I would say micro/passive aggressive but its not even all that.

(Getty Images for Michael Kors)

Another said: She just didnt want to share personal stuff and made a joke about this and even laughed at herself and the way she said, but you werent there sounds really sweet to me, why would anyone be offended by this?

A third added: If Anna Wintour told me a secret I wouldnt even tell it to my own cat.

Speaking about the viral moment she recreated one of her characters looks, Hathaway told Today that she hadnt done so on purpose.

(Getty Images for Michael Kors)

It was kind of nuts, wasnt it, she told host Savannah Guthrie. It was by accident. I was supposed to wear something else. The shoes didnt fit, this was the other outfit that came.

And then my hairstylist, who was so lovely and I had never worked with him before, just said, Oh I know what to do. And he threw my hair up in a ponytail.

Hathaway said at that moment she realised who she resembled.

I looked in the mirror and I thought, Oh thats funny, I wonder if anybody will notice.
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After letting her hair down at the Coronation Concert, the Duchess of Edinburgh took part in a puppy class in a chic pair of orange trousers.

Sophie continued to prove shes a relatable royal as she played with one-year-old Nyla at the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Training Centre in Reading.

The 58-year-old could be fast becoming a royal style icon too.

For the bank holiday Monday appearance, she paired the cigarette-style, ankle-length trousers with a floral cream blouse and a tan blazer.

She completed the look with her signature blond wavy hair pinned half up, and sand-coloured espadrille wedges.

The Duke of Edinburgh, Edward, joined his wife at the event too, to mark the Big Help Out on bank holiday Monday, encouraging people to volunteer.

It comes after Sophie, the former Countess of Wessex, made viewers smile with her dance moves at the Coronation Concert on Sunday.

She wore a midi coral pink dress  the Yahvi Coral Dress British brand Beulah  complete with three-quarter length bell sleeves.

The dress, which costs 695, has a fitted bodice and button detailing down the left-hand side and comes in five other colours; cream, chambre, emerald green, navy and blush.

The duchess paired it with a snakeskin-effect clutch bag and statement Swarovski x Paul Andrew Crystal Drop Earrings.

Some viewers said the duchess stole the show with her enthusiastic dancing as Lionel Richie performed All Night Long  and she could even be seen singing along to the lyrics.

Sophie and her husband Edward met well-wishers at a Big Coronation Lunch on Sunday in Cranleigh, Surrey.

She wore a bold paisley patterned maxi dress with an eye-watering price tag.

The Patchwork Shirt Dress from Etro costs 1,035 and has three-quarter length sleeves (just like the coral dress she wore to the Coronation concert later that day). She teamed the dress with beige wedges and a cream handbag.

For the Kings coronation itself, Sophie wore a simple white Suzannah dress under a Royal Victorian Order Mantle. She topped off the look with a Jane Taylor feather headpiece and silver diamond earrings.

She also joined the official balcony appearance, standing next to Kate, the Princess of Wales.

Designer Suzannah shared the process of making Sophies coronation dress on Instagram.

I reflected on the regalia of the previous Coronation in 1953 for the floor length gown inspiration, she posted.

Intricate embroidery of British meadow flowers and leaves were handstitched around the neckline and top of the back. A similar pattern ran down the length of the train too.

She said the florals were inspired by ceramicist Rachel Dein and embroidered by Jenny King using traditional Irish stitch technique.

Sophie married into the royal family in 1999, after she starting dating Elizabeth IIs youngest son when she was a public relations executive in 1993.

She worked in PR until 2002, but quit to focus on her royal duties full time and now she is known as one of the hardest-working royals.

She once told The Telegraph: Im no good at sitting still and doing nothing.
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The humble Chinese takeaway is having a moment. It started with British users posting TikTok videos of their regular orders: egg fried rice, salt and pepper chips, chicken balls, curry sauce, the lot. The trend was meant to be a positive one, with Brits merely trying to give their favourite dishes the recognition they deserve, but the algorithm did its thing a bit too well within days, the videos were found by Americans.

Chaos has since ensued, both on and off the video-sharing app. From some Asian Americans suggesting that the phrase getting a Chinese is borderline racist (its categorically not), to others comparing the food on display to eating out of a dumpster, the reaction to the glorious mess of beige that is British Chinese takeaway food has been, to say the least, harsh.

Full disclosure: I am not a great lover of the British Chinese takeaway. But this has nothing to do with the food itself or the people who make it, its simply not what Im used to. I am also not one to preach about authenticity because I am not from China and have never been there. Just as Malaysian Chinese communities have created their own brand of Chinese food, so have the British Chinese diaspora.

Chinese immigrants first started arriving on British shores in the early 19th century, making the UKs Chinese community the oldest in western Europe. Like nearly all immigrants, food became a lifeline  a way to connect with their homeland as well as a means to earn money and make a living. But what do you do when youre far from home, have none of the ingredients you would usually cook with, and need to appeal to a palate unlike your own? Well you make do. Thats how British Chinese cuisine was born.

For a group that has faced ongoing racism for generations, adaptability has been key to success. Even in more recent times, as Covid brought with it a wave of discrimination, the British Chinese diaspora has continued to stand tall. Restaurateurs figured out what appealed to British tastes, changing recipes and adding new twists to keep customers coming back. Yes, that has meant deep-frying the s*** out of a lot of things. But what of it? British Chinese takeaway is not what we would consider authentic Chinese food  but it was never meant to be, and thats OK.

It wasnt so long ago that self-declared foodies would sneer at Asian restaurants that acquiesced to the demands of their British customers, or roundly accuse white chefs producing Asian food of cultural appropriation. For a while, the newfound appreciation for authenticity did a good job of introducing people to flavours and dishes they wouldnt otherwise have tried or even seen on a menu. It also resulted in deeper respect for different cultures and cuisines. But the limitations and rules set by the internet  namely, that everyone needs to stay in their lane  grew more and more restrictive, pigeonholing chefs and cooks.

The conversation around authenticity in food has been shifting lately, though, and I think for the better. Chefs of every race and creed have spoken out about cooking what is true to their experiences. They have taken the lessons theyve learnt about cultural appropriation over the last few years and applied them, with some fantastic results. Thanks to international trade and access to more ingredients than ever before, food in the UK is in its most exciting era since the spice trade and we should continue embracing what comes out of our kitchens.

The thing that irks me the most, though, about the criticism of British Chinese takeaway food by Americans is the liberties they take in declaring something as gross. They demand the respect of others while showing none whatsoever for everyone else. Also, this criticism is coming from a country where orange chicken is considered a classic Chinese dish. In actual fact, orange chicken is a purely American invention, created by fast food chain Panda Express in Hawaii as a way to bridge cultures. In other words, its an adaptation of Chinese food in a different country, just like British Chinese takeaway.

In Takeaway, a memoir by food writer Angela Hui, she details growing up in the restaurant that her parents ran and she worked in alongside her siblings. She writes: My parents didnt really want us to get too involved with the family business. They knew it was backbreaking and unsociable work. My parents didnt run a takeaway out of passion and love; they did it in order to fund higher education for me and my brothers, so we could study hard and get good jobs. My parents came to cook so that we didnt have to.

Sit down and eat your orange chicken in peace

British Chinese communities dont cook the takeaway food they do just to be sneered at on social media. They did it to survive and thrive in a country that did not want or love them back, as evidenced in the secret deportations of hundreds of Chinese men who fought for Britain in WWII from 1945. But against all the odds, the British Chinese takeaway has become part of the tapestry of this country, fiercely defended by the Britons who cant live without it.

So, to the shocked and disgusted Americans of TikTok, I say: sit down and eat your orange chicken in peace. Leave British Chinese takeaway alone, and if you have nothing nice to say, well, dont say anything at all.
Mixed reactions have continued to trail the ban on Indomie's 'special chicken' flavour noodles by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

NAFDAC's decision followed the detection of ethylene oxide, a substance known to cause cancer, by the health institutions of Malaysia and Taiwan.

In Jos, the Plateau State capital, residents are expressing divergent views on the development.

Although NAFDAC is yet to conclude investigation into the Indomie noodles cancer issue, the outcome of an investigation by the two Asian countries has raised concerns considering the danger of the disease it causes.

While some Jos residents are of the opinion that a ban on the importation of the product is not a welcome idea, some say the decision is a source of concern.

Dauda Isyaku, a resident of the state said, "This Indomie has been in existence for almost 20 years and NAFDAC has not been able to investigate and come out with such decision.

To me, the government hasn't tried because many may have died of cancer. NAFDAC should have done the investigation even before permitting us to be eating any food.

Muktar Usman another resident said, "NAFDAC must be taking this kind of decision. It is clear to me that they are doing their Job. It is their responsibility to be investigating all foods that we would be eating. They have realized that Indomie would negatively affect our health. It is a welcome idea."

For Zakariya Abdullahi, "I am happy that NAFDAC is investigating the food. If it is discovered that eating such food is not good for our health, it should not be left in the market for people's consumption."
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FormerMarried At First Sight UK (MAFSUK) participant Gemma Rose has accused the shows producers of using her trauma against her to get her to unravel on television.

The 31-year-old mother-of-two was paired up with Matt Murray during her appearance on the seventh series of the show, which aired last year.

However, the pair proved to be a bad match as they consistently got into arguments and disagreed with one another over a number of things. The on-screen relationship ended after Murray began an affair with another participant, Whitney Hughes.

In a new interview with The Sun, Rose opened up about going through counselling before taking part on the show, but believes it was used against her to pair her up with someone incompatible.

She revealed that she and the counsellors spoke about her very negative childhood and events that led to her adult life.

I was very proud to say to the counsellor that Id put them in a box and it was like it was someone elses story, and she said, Youre suffering from trauma.

Rose claimed that she sought reassurance that she was ready to go on MAFS UK, and was promised by the counsellors that she would be fine and they would look after her.

Thats obviously not true, she said on reflection. They just think, Oh, someone weak and we can pick all those bits that they want to change about themselves, and we can let that unravel on television knowing that were going to give them the ultimate challenge.

Rose also revealed that she had been struggling with excessive alcohol consumption before the show, and when she started filming, there was just more alcohol than Ive ever seen being served.

(Channel 4)

We had decanters and the production would be pouring six bottles and wed all be like, Get as much wine as possible! she recalled.

When I first went into the experiment, two weeks later than everyone else, I was sat at the table next to Thomas [Hartley] and he said, Pour a glass of red and a glass of white and youll see what I mean in a minute;, and it was gone.

Last year, Rose told the Daily Mail that she told producers she didnt feel safe in the experiment due to Murrays aggressive body language, but felt her concerns were left ignored.

I did find him at times quite scary, she said. I told [the producers] I didnt feel safe and I should have been removed a few times in that instance. I felt very vulnerable as it was.

She said that while the producers checked on participants multiple times a day, which was great, it wasnt enough considering the toxic environment that we were in.

A Channel 4 spokesperson told The Independent: All individuals taking part in MAFS UK have been deemed suitable to take part by an independent clinical psychologist and after being cast all contributors have the ability to stay in or leave the process at any stage.

Contributor care and wellbeing is of paramount importance and appropriate support is available to contributors before, during and after broadcast. During filming, alcohol consumption is at the discretion of individuals, but it is monitored and limited by the production team.

All broadcast episodes of MAFS UK are a fair and accurate reflection of the events that took place. While not every contributor finds lasting love in the MAFS process, many have a positive and enriching experience and the UK franchise has brought together couples who remain in committed relationships and have started families.
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Prince Harry and Meghan Markles friend and photographer Misan Harriman has wished the couples son Prince Archie a happy birthday with a poignant photo of the child touching a portrait of his late grandmother, Princess Diana.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussexs son celebrates his fourth birthday on 6 May, which happens to be the same day as King Charles and Queen Camillas coronation.

The timing of the two events meant that Prince Harry made a brief solo trip to the UK to attend his fathers coronation, while Meghan remained in California with the couples two children, Archie and Princess Lilibet, one.

On Saturday, the Nigerian-born British photographer, who has photographed Meghan and her family on a number of notable occasions, shared the birthday tribute to Archie on Instagram, where he posted a screengrab of a baby Archie touching a black-and-white portrait of his late grandmother.

The screengrab was taken from Harry and Meghans Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan, and captured the moment that the Duchess of Sussex held her son up to a photo of Diana that hung in his nursery.

Who is that? Meghan asked her son, with Archie then seen reaching out and placing his hand on the framed photograph. Hey Grandma Thats your grandma, Meghan informed the child during the sweet moment.

On Instagram, Harriman shared the screengrab along with the caption: Wishing you the happiest of birthdays Archie along with a heart emoji.

Harrimans choice of photo prompted some of his followers to speculate about the message the photographer was sending, with some suggesting he was shading the royal family on the day of the King and Queens coronation.

Princess Diana and now-King Charles were married from 1981 to 1996, during which time they welcomed sons Prince William and Prince Harry. Before their divorce, the couple both reportedly engaged in extramarital affairs, with Diana telling the BBC: There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded in reference to the Kings now-wife Queen Camilla. In 1997, the late Princess of Wales died at the age of 36 from injuries sustained in a car crash.

I see you @misanharriman I see the subtle shade, one person commented, while another said: So poignant Misan. Thank you for sharing this with us!

My heart is with Harry and Diana today. The most important thing today is your birthday Archie! someone else wrote.

Others took the opportunity to share their own birthday wishes to Archie, with one person writing: Such a sweet pic! Happy birthday Prince Archie!! You are loved.

Happy birthday little one! May you be surrounded with love and joy on your special day! another comment reads.

After arriving in the UK on Friday aboard a commercial flight, Prince Harry attended the coronation ceremony of King Charles and Queen Camilla solo. The Duke of Sussex was then seen leaving Westminster Abbey alone after the ceremony ended, with the father-of-two believed to already be on his way back to California.

Although the duke did not appear to have any interaction with his brother William during the ceremony, he was seen smiling at several points throughout the service, which saw him seated in the third row near his cousin Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank.

At the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs home in California, Meghan is said to be hosting a low-key party for Prince Archies fourth birthday, a source told People. Theyll have friends around them and Meghans mom, Doria [Ragland]. Meghan will definitely have support that weekend.

Meghan recently shared a tribute of her own to Harriman, when she introduced her dear friend in a pre-recorded message ahead of his recent Ted Talk. In the video, the duchess took the opportunity to reflect on the many meaningful milestones he has captured for her family.

Our next speaker has an unmatched eye for a good photograph. Ive experienced his talent firsthand as hes captured many meaningful milestones for me and my family, and I know there are many others who share in this experience, Meghan said in the video. His lens has photographed everything from events that have changed the world, invisible moments we all desperately needed to see, along with some of the planets most recognisable faces.

In addition to capturing many of the Sussexes notable moments as a family, such as Princess Lilibets first birthday, Harriman is also widely recognised for the photographs he captured during the Black Lives Matter movement.

The Independent has contacted Harriman for comment.

Follow along for live updates from the coronation.
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A video has captured the sweet nickname the Princess of Wales has for her youngest son, Prince Louis.

The five-year-old prince made his first-ever royal engagement when he volunteered with his family at a local Scout group as part of the Big Help Out initiative  a special bank holiday set aside for volunteering in tribute to King Charles IIIs lifetime of public service.

The Prince and Princess of Wales  along with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis  visited the 3rd Upton Scout Group in Slough to help renovate their Scout hut. The royal family wasnt afraid to get their hands dirty, as the three children painted, shovelled, and ate smores.

Although Louis was absent from the coronation concert on Sunday, he was ready to join in on the fun on Monday. While roasting marshmallows with his mother, the Princess of Wales was caught on video calling her son by his cute nickname.

Pop that in the fire, Lou Bug, the mother of three could be heard saying.

Another clip captured Kate calling her youngest son Lou Bug as he took control of a wheelbarrow filled with dirt.

Well done, good job Lou Bug! she said in the video.

Royal fans instantly took to social media to gush over the Princess of Wales sweet moniker for Prince Louis.

Lou bug is so cute, replied one Twitter user.

I cant get over Lou-bug, another said.

A third person wrote: Lou bug! Oh god thats adorable!

The royal family has been known to share their affectionate nicknames for each other in the past. During a 2018 visit to Leicester, the Princess of Wales revealed that her children refer to their father as Pops.

Prince William has reportedly been heard calling Princess Charlotte Mignonette  the French word for small and delicate  while Kate has previously called Charlotte as Lottie.

Oh, hes the same age as Lottie, the then-Duchess of Cambridge let slip during a 2019 visit to Northern Ireland, according to Harpers Bazaar.

The royal children arent the only members of the family whove earned nicknames. In fact, Kate Middleton and Prince William have been known to use quite a few nicknames for each other over the years. The two were heard referring to each other as babe and darling at the Chelsea Flower Show in 2016, while Kate reportedly referred to William as Big Willy back in their university days at St Andrews University in Edinburgh, Scotland, a source previously told The Mirror.

The Waleses shared several sweet family moments while volunteering for the Big Help Out on Monday. In photos and video from the event, Prince Louis could be seen shovelling some dirt into a wheelbarrow and joining his siblings in archery. Princess Charlotte and her younger brother helped decorate a wall mural with their hand prints, while Prince George received some assistance from his father in operating the big yellow excavator.

As Kate greeted well-wishers at the event, another video captured Prince Louis reaching for his mothers hand to hold.

The family outing came after the Prince and Princess of Wales attended the coronation of King Charles III with their three children. The coronation service took place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6 May, where Prince George served as one of his grandfathers Pages of Honour. Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were also seen holding hands inside the Abbey.

The following day, a star-studded coronation concert also captured George and Charlotte giggling to an amusing skit from the Muppets, while Louis stayed home because it was past his bedtime.
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The Prince of Wales paid a touching tribute to his father at the concert held to celebrate King Charles IIIs coronation, saying: Pa, we are all so proud of you.

Taking to the stage in front of 20,000 people at Windsor Castle, Prince William praised the Kings dedication to the crown, as well as his environmental and charity work.

William said the King had warned us of the risks to our planets health long before it was an everyday issue.

He also highlighted the Princes Trust, established by his father, which he said has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realise their ambitions.

William takes to the stage in Windsor (Getty)

The heir to throne also made a sweet reference to his late grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, adding: I know shes up there, fondly keeping an eye on us.

She would be a very proud mother.

William also made his own historic pledge as he thanked the millions who serve in the military, schools, NHS and local communities, saying: I commit myself to serve you all. King, country and Commonwealth.

The young royals almost stole the show from their father. In a heartwarming moment, Princess Charlotte attempted to get Prince Georges attention and pointed at William as he took to the stage.

Queen and King at the Coronation Concert (PA Wire)

By publicly calling Charles Pa and expressing the royal familys pride in him, he echoed the speeches his father gave at the late Queens successive Jubilee concerts, when he referred to her as Mummy.

At his Golden Jubilee concert speech in 2002, Charles introduced his mother, as she stood beside him, with Your Majesty ... Mummy and later said: We feel proud of you.

On Sunday in Windsor, William praised the Kings take on the natural world, saying: He warned us of the risks to our planets health long before it was an everyday issue.

Prince George and Prince William, beside Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty, enjoy the show (Getty)

His warm words were echoed by other guests, including Stella McCartney, who said she felt the King has a true love and passion for nature which has been shown through his work across his lifetime.

Ms McCartney, who has championed a vegan lifestyle and sustainable design throughout her career, said that she thought the King had a true love and passion for nature and for mother earth and to safeguard that.

William also heralded his fathers establishment of the Princes Trust, adding: It has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realise their ambitions.

Three generations of royals share a moment in the crowd (AP)

William continued: Perhaps most importantly of all, my father has always understood that people of all faiths, all backgrounds, and all communities, deserve to be celebrated and supported.

As William concluded his speech, he said: God Save the King, which was repeated loudly by the thousands in attendance.

Thousands gathered around Windsor Castle ahead of the concert. Earlier, William and Princess of Wales surprised crowds on the Long Walk, sharing laughs and drinks with well-wishers.

Here is the full text of Williams speech:

Good evening Your Majesties. Good evening Windsor!

A huge thank you to everyone for making this such a special evening.

I want to say a few words about my father, and why I believe this weekend is so important.

But dont worry, unlike Lionel, I wont go on all night long.

As my grandmother said when she was crowned, coronations are a declaration of our hopes for the future.

And I know shes up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. And she would be a very proud mother.

For all that celebrations are magnificent, at the heart of the pageantry is a simple message: Service.

My fathers first words on entering Westminster Abbey yesterday were a pledge of service.

It was a pledge to continue to serve.

Because for over 50 years, in every corner of the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others, both current and future generations, and those whose memory must not be neglected.

Take the natural world. He warned us of the risks to our planets health long before it was an everyday issue.

Or the Princes Trust. It has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realise their ambitions.

And, perhaps most importantly of all, my father has always understood that people of all faiths, all backgrounds, and all communities, deserve to be celebrated and supported.

Pa, we are all so proud of you.

I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve, in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities.

I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us. And tonight we celebrate you too.

I commit myself to serve you all. King, country and Commonwealth.

God save the King!
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Princess Charlotte had the sweetest reaction after realising her father, the Prince of Wales, was on stage during the coronation concert.

The extravagant concert took place on Sunday (7 May) at Windsor Castle in honour of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, one day after the coronation ceremony at Westminster Abbey. The coronation concert included a star-studded lineup of performers, from Lionel Richie to Katy Perry.

However, it seems that Princess Charlotte was most excited when her father appeared on stage to deliver a speech in front of thousands of concert-goers.

As Prince WIlliam took to the stage to give a touching tribute to his own father, the eight-year royal immediately stopped waving her union jack flag and pointed towards her dad. Charlotte also appeared to inform her older brother Prince George, who was sitting next to her, that William was on stage.

Meanwhile, Kate Middleton clapped as William took centre stage. He began his speech by saying, Good evening Your Majesties, to cheers from the crowd. While speaking to 20,000 people on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle, William took the opportunity to praise King Charles dedication to the crown and his environmental and charity work.

He also highlighted the Princes Trust, established by his father, which he said has supported over a million young people, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, to realise their ambitions.

The heir to the throne also made a sweet reference to his late grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, adding: I know shes up there, fondly keeping an eye on us.

She would be a very proud mother.

Adorable moment Princess Charlotte realises William is on coronation concert stage

While Princess Charlotte was excited to see her father on stage, it was a surprise appearance from the Muppets Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy that managed to get a giggle out of the young royals. The amusing skit, which saw the Muppet characters asking to be shown their seats in the royal box, prompted smiles and laughter from Prince George and Princess Charlotte, who watched the coronation concert with their parents from the stands.

The youngest child of the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince Louis, was sadly missing from the festivities. Although the five-year-old royal once again stole the show at his grandfathers coronation on Saturday, it was likely that he was absent from the concert due to its late nature.

The Waleses also captured hearts during the coronation service when Charlotte and Louis were seen holding hands as they entered Westminster Abbey. One fan called the moment absolutely precious, while another said: This is adorable.

Follow for live updates from the coronation concert.
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Britons are getting a second bank holiday weekend in a row, as the coronation weekend of King Charles III arrives right after the early May bank holiday last week.

Monday 1 May was the early May bank holiday, while Buckingham Palace announced last year that Monday 8 May would also be a bank holiday to give the country an extra day to celebrate the coronation.

With Big Lunches and street parties planned for the following one, British people have plenty to look forward to this weekend.

However, it could also mean closures across some supermarkets on more days than usual.

Many people will be looking to stock up for the long weekend and ensure they have plenty of food and drink for gatherings, parties, or just to relax with.

Here are the opening times for Sainsburys, Tesco, Morrison, Lidl and more.

Sainsburys

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Sainsburys is operating at normal hours for the weekend of the Kings coronation.

Again, opening hours may vary. Check your local store before you visit.

Tesco

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Most of Tescos large stores will operate at normal hours on 8 May.

(PA)

Morrisons

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

On 8 May, Morrisons stores will open at their usual time but will close at 8pm, slightly earlier than normal.

Customers should check their local store times on Morrisons store finder.

Aldi

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Normal opening hours across Aldi stores on Saturday and Sunday (6 and 7 May). On 8 May, stores will be open until 8pm in England and Wales. In Scotland, stores will be open until 10pm.

The opening times of some stores may vary and customers should check their local stores on Aldis website.

Lidl

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

On Monday 8 May, Lidl stores will be open from 8am to 8pm in England and Wales. Stores in Scotland will remain open as normal until 10pm.

Store opening hours may vary, so check the store finder before visiting.

Asda

(PA Wire)

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Asda stores will be open at normal hours on Saturday and Sunday (6 and 7 May), but will shorten opening hours from 7am to 8pm on Monday 8 May.

Marks & Spencer

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Stores will be open at usual times on Saturday and Sunday (6 and 7 May), but will have shorter hours on Monday 8 May.

Customers should check their local M&S using the store finder before visiting.

Waitrose

8 May  Kings coronation bank holiday

Large Waitrose stores will be open for normal hours throughout the coronation bank holiday weekend.

You can check your local Waitrose opening times using the companys store finder.
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EDITORS/NEWS DIRECTORS:

As many schools struggle to find enough teachers, state governors across the U.S. are pushing for pay increases, bonuses and other perks in a growing competition to attract and retain educators.

The question of teacher compensation will receive heightened attention during Teacher Appreciation Week beginning May 8, a time when school systems and parent-teacher organizations coordinate expressions of gratitude for educators.

The strains of teaching through the COVID-19 pandemic have taken a toll on many teachers, with unions reporting low morale and many thinking of leaving the profession. Governors have pitched raises as a way to address teacher shortages and shore up staffing pipelines threatened by lackluster enrollments in teacher training programs.

Shortages are most extreme in certain areas, including the poorest or most rural districts, researchers say. Districts also report particular difficulties in hiring for in-demand subjects like special education, math and science.

Its not clear how far pay raises will go toward relieving the shortages, though. Some teachers say the pay raises are too little, too late to fix problems that are years in the making.

___

FIND APS STORY HERE:

Teacher appreciation? Try better pay, more governors say

___

ADD LOCAL CONTEXT

In the past year, more than half of the states governors  26 so far  have boosted teacher compensation or are talking about it. They are listed below, based on information from the Education Commission of the States and a forthcoming report called Raising the Bar on Teacher Pay by the Center on Great Teachers and Leaders at the American Institutes for Research and the Teacher Salary Project.

States include:

Alabama

Arkansas

Colorado

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Indiana

Iowa

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maryland

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

New Mexico

North Carolina

Oklahoma

Pennsylvania

South Carolina

Tennessee

Utah

Virginia

Washington

West Virginia

___

VIEW YOUR STATE'S TEACHER SALARIES

 The national average public school teacher salary in 2021-22 increased 2% from the previous year to $66,745, according to the National Education Association, the nations largest teachers union. The NEA analysis, based on data the union collected from school systems, lists its figures for average and starting teacher salaries for the 50 states here: https://www.nea.org/resource-library/educator-pay-and-student-spending-how-does-your-state-rank/starting-teacher

 To see what governors have said in their state of the state speeches about teacher pay, you can look under Teaching Quality  Compensation and Diversified Pay in this rundown by the Education Commission on the States: https://www.ecs.org/governors-state-of-the-state-addresses-education-related-proposals

 Here is a breakdown from the National Council on Teacher Quality on how states determine teacher pay: https://www.nctq.org/publications/State-of-the-States-2022:-Teacher-Compensation-Strategies

___

TAKE YOUR REPORTING FURTHER

 If your state is considering or recently passed pay raises, ask teachers how that has affected their job satisfaction. If they have been thinking of leaving the classroom, how much do finances play into those decisions?

 When interviewing state education officials, ask whether they collect information on teacher attrition and, if so, whether that information is catalogued by district. If they do, do they collect information on how long those teachers have been certified or teaching in that district? Do they catalogue the departures by reason for leaving? And do they catalogue the departures by whether a departing teacher is retiring, switching to another district or switching to another profession?

 Ask district officials the same questions about how many teachers are leaving, where they are going and why they are leaving. Are more teachers leaving in the middle of the school year? Are more teachers leaving earlier in their careers? Also, you can ask district officials what they are doing to keep teachers. Are they raising pay? Offering bonuses? Making schedules more flexible?

___

Localize It is an occasional feature produced by The Associated Press for its customers use. Questions can be directed to Katie Oyan at koyan@ap.org.
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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 40,177 active Covid cases on 3 May, part of a steady seven-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 latest update from 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 11.7 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.

How long do Covid symptoms last?

While the symptoms of the virus can vary depending on the strain, the length of time people have it remains similar.

As to how long the symptoms last, the NHS explains: Most people with coronavirus or symptoms of Covid-19 feel better within a few weeks.

You may be able to look after yourself at home while you recover.

While youre ill, ask a friend, family member or neighbour to check up on you. Arrange a regular call or talk through a doorway (not face to face) so they can check how youre doing.

It offers guidance on how to cope with specific symptoms that might be causing discomfort while you recuperate here.
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Today Britons are being encouraged to take up hundreds of thousands of volunteering roles highlighted as part of coronation celebrations that aim to reflect the sectors central role in the UKs national story.

A special bank holiday has been set aside for volunteering in a tribute to the Kings lifetime of public service.

Love Island star Faye Winter and Dragons Den entrepreneur Deborah Meaden are among the celebrities who have been promoting The Big Help Out, with more than 1,500 charities involved.

New opportunities offered to members of the public via the organisations app, which launched in March, include options to help the elderly, the environment, support animal welfare and work within their local communities.

The initiative is a formal part of the Kings coronation, with people encouraged to either lend a helping hand today or arrange another opportunity to volunteer their time or skills.

The Big Help Out app can be searched by postcode, the type of activity needed or the organisations involved.

To find out more visit the The Big Help Out website here.

The project aims to raise awareness of volunteering opportunities throughout the UK and was devised by leading charities, including the Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service and Guide Dogs.

Organisers hope for an unprecedented community mobilisation to underscore the central role volunteering plays in our national story and to inspire a new generation of volunteers throughout Charless reign.

The minister for ceremonial events, including the coronation, Stuart Andrew, said: The Big Help Out will shine a spotlight on the power of volunteering to help our communities. It is a tribute to His Majesty the Kings lifetime of public service and a wonderful way to begin this new age.

I encourage everyone to get involved to celebrate the coronation of Their Majesties the King and the Queen Consort.

Meaden said: I know a good idea when I see it and the Big Help Out is one. Thats why everyone is joining in.

Charities, businesses and now the public can get involved too, she added.

Winter, who is a volunteer with Guide Dogs, said: Its so rewarding being a fosterer for Guide Dogs and knowing that youre helping each dog on their journey to support someone living with sight loss.

Its a fantastic cause and I would recommend volunteering to anyone who is able to donate some of their time.

Musicals star and Radio 2 presenter Elaine Paige, an ambassador for the Royal Voluntary Service, said: No matter what your level of skills or experience, everyone can have a positive impact through volunteering.

I have seen it first-hand through my work with Royal Voluntary Service, not only can you make a real difference in your community, but volunteering does the world of good to the volunteers too.

Buckingham Palace said the day will encourage people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas.

Its aim is to use volunteering to bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the coronation weekend.

Fresh from their appearance at the coronation concert, the Prince and the Princess of Wales will be at a Scout hut in Berkshire, while Princess Anne is at an event in Gloucestershire.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will help train puppies at a guide dog centre, while the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will meet volunteers at a London street party.

Politicians from the main parties are also getting involved. The prime minister and his wife are helping at a lunch club, Labour leader Keir Starmer is answering calls for the NHS volunteer responders programme, and Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf is at a community larder.

However, after a busy few days in the spotlight, Buckingham Palace said the King and Queen will not be taking part but are wholly supportive of the volunteering event.

Learn more at the initiatives website www.thebighelpout.org.uk
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Buckingham Palace this evening released portraits marking the crowning of Charles III and Queen Camilla, as the King thanked the nation for making the coronation such a special occasion.

In the coronation message, Charles called the nations support throughout the historic celebrations the greatest possible coronation gift.

He promised that alongside his wife Camilla, they would rededicate their lives to serving the people of Great Britain and wider Commonwealth.

King Charles III is pictured in full regalia in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace, London (PA)

He said: As the coronation weekend draws to a close, my wife and I just wanted to share our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

We pay particular tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.

To those who joined in the celebrations - whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities - we thank you, each and every one, the King continued.

To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the realms and Commonwealth.

Charles III and Camilla are pictured with members of the working royal family: (left to right) the Duke of Kent, the Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Gloucester, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Princess Royal, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales, the Princess of Wales, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Alexandra, the Hon. Lady Ogilvy, the Duke of Edinburgh (PA)

In the newly released official photographs, Charles was captured in his full regalia - wearing the Imperial State Crown, holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross, and dressed in his regal purple tunic and Robe of Estate, seated in the Throne Room.

Camilla was pictured alongside the King, and also in a solo portrait, wearing Queen Marys Crown, with the train of her lengthy embroidered Robe of Estate spread in front of her.

The working royal family - the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Edinburghs, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke of Kent, the Gloucesters and Princess Alexandra - were also photographed stood with the King and Queen in the images by Hugo Burnand.

It comes after new figures show the Coronation Concert on Sunday night was watched by an average of 10.1 million, overnight figures from the BBC show. The event had a peak audience of 12.3 million, the corporation said.

The royal couple in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace (PA)

Kate Phillips, BBC Director of Unscripted, said: Last nights Coronation Concert was an unforgettable evening of spectacular performances that brought us all together in celebration.

Against the stunning backdrop of Windsor Castle, the concert reflected many of the Kings passions and highlighted the outstanding talent we have in the UK and beyond.

At the star-studded event on Sunday evening, Prince William paid tribute to the Kings coronation pledge of service as the newly crowned monarchs life was celebrated.

The Princess of Wales, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and the Prince of Wales, in the Royal Box at the Coronation Concert in the grounds of Windsor Castle (Getty Images)

William took to the stage during the Coronation Concert to speak about the pride he felt for his father, highlight Charles recognition of people of all faiths, all backgrounds and fondly remember his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II.

During a night of music staged in the grounds of Windsor Castle, actors, singers and entertainers came forward to praise the nations King - and Kermit the Frog managed to gatecrash the royal box.

William told the 20,000 spectators: Pa, we are all so proud of you. When he took to the stage he delighted his daughter Princess Charlotte, who could be seen pointing out her father to brother Prince George.

The future King made a poignant reference to his late grandmother Queen Elizabeth II, adding: I know shes up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. He told Charles: She would be a very proud mother.

Prince Louis of Wales and his mother Kate toast marshmallows as they take part in the Big Help Out (Getty Images)

On Monday, Williams son Louis stole the show as he got stuck into a spot of painting, digging and decorating when he volunteered with his family helping renovate a Scout hut site in Slough, Berkshire, as part of the Big Help Out.

The five-year-old royal tried his hand at archery, making hand prints on a mural, and ended the day splashed with paint but got his reward - a smore, a marshmallow and chocolate sandwiched between two biscuits.

Kensington Palace said it was the youngsters first royal engagement.

Although Louis has been at numerous big royal events from Trooping the Colour to the coronation, it is thought to be the first time he has actively participated in an official visit face to face with the public.

Meanwhile, the King and Queen had a quiet day away from the public eye after Sunday evenings concert.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was Saturday conspicuous by his absence in a historic picture of recently coronated King Charles III and state leaders who attended his Saturday function in the UK.

The image which is making rounds on social media has King Charles III and other world leaders including his Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Rwandese President Paul Kagame, Zambia's Hakainde Hichilema and even King Mswati III.

Although no explanation has been given, leaders selected for the photo-op could be representatives of Commonwealth nations.

Zimbabwe's application for readmission is still a hot topic in the British parliament where members have argued Mnangagwa's human rights record does not fill in well with their values.

He has struggled to rid himself of his bad boy tag despite millions reportedly gobbled in his re-engagement attempts.

While others had an audience with the 'new' head of the UK's royal family and Sunak, Mnangagwa only got to meet Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland who emphasised Commonwealth values in their discussion centred on re-admission.

"Pleased to welcome the President of Zimbabwe, Mnangagwa to Marlborough House for a courtesy call. The President and I discussed a range of issues, including Zimbabwe's ongoing application to re-join the Commonwealth and reaffirmed the commitment to the values of the Commonwealth," said Scotland.

Despite his unexpected invite, relations seem not to have thawed between Zimbabwe and its former colonial master.
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The Kings lifelong connection to the skies was marked on Sunday with the small red aircraft in which he learned to fly delighting aviation and military enthusiasts in Bedford.

The 70-year-old Royal de Havilland Chipmunk WP903 was among the vintage aeroplanes to take to the skies on Sunday for Shuttleworth aerodromes King and Country Air Show.

The dayglo red, single-engined primary trainer was used by the future King at RAF Tangmere in 1969 while he was a student at Cambridge University.

The young prince flew solo for the first time in the tandem, two-seat aircraft on January 14 1969 before being awarded his private pilots licence two months later and his RAF Preliminary Flying Badge on August 2.

In August 1971 he was presented with his RAF wings.

Built in 1952, the Royal Chipmunk affectionately known as the Red Dragon served with the RAF Queens Flight from September 20 1960 to June 12 1964.

In addition to Charles, the Chipmunk was also used to teach the Duke of Kent and the late Queens cousins Prince Michael and Prince William to fly.

William, brother of the Duke of Gloucester, would die in an air crash while piloting his plane in a competition in 1972 at the age of 30.

In 1979, the WP904 would be detached from the RN Grading Flight to teach the then-Prince Andrew.

On leaving the RAF in 1974, WP903 was acquired by the Culdrose Gliding Club and served as a Glider Tug until December 1996.

Since 2001, the Chipmunk has been operated by the Henlow Chipmunk Group and based out of the Old Warden Aerodrome near Bedford since 2020.

Two Edwardian-era aircrafts also made a rare appearance at Sundays King and Country Air Show at Shuttleworth.

Representing the very beginning of manned flight in the UK, the two fragile aeroplanes can only be flown in near-windless conditions.

Fortunately for all involved, the days wind speeds were under 5mph.

The Roe IV Triplane was an early British aircraft designed by Alliott Verdon Roe and built by AV Roe and Company (later to become AVRO, manufacturer of the WW2 Lancaster bomber). It was first flown in September 1910 and only one example was made.

It has a top speed of around 25mph.

The example that took to the air for the King and Country Air Show was an exact replica of the original made for the 1965 film Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines, starring Stuart Whitman, Sarah Miles, Robert Morley and Terry-Thomas.

It was later donated to the Shuttleworth Collection, Sundays air show host.

Flying alongside the Roe was the Bristol Boxkite which was first flown in 1910.

The latter aircraft has a more modern engine and was based on the design of the French Farman III biplane.

It was built by the Bristol and Colonial Aeroplane company (later the Bristol Aeroplane company).

The example on display on Sunday was another exact replica constructed for Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines.
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Scotland Yard has expressed regret that the six people arrested ahead of the Kings coronation were unable to join fellow anti-monarchy protesters. The Metropolitan Police were threatened with legal action when no charges were brought.

Republic chief executive Graham Smith said a chief inspector and two other Metropolitan Police officers personally apologised to him over what he called a disgraceful episode after they visited him on Monday evening.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had earlier backed the Met over the dozens of arrests of protesters amid concerns they were cracking down on the right to protest.

The Metropolitan Police issued a lengthy defence as it confirmed Mr Smith and five others have been told they face no further action after being arrested on Saturday and bailed.

The force said it had arrested the group using new powers under the much-criticised Public Order Act after it was believed items found alongside a large number of placards could be used as lock-on devices to cause disruption.

Those arrested stated the items would be used to secure their placards, and the investigation has been unable to prove intent to use them to lock on and disrupt the event, the statement said.

This evening, all six have had their bail cancelled and no further action will be taken.

We regret that those six people arrested were unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route.

Mr Smith said the three officers apologised to him at his home in Reading, Berkshire, before handing back the phone straps they arrested him over.

They seemed rather embarrassed, to be honest, he said. I said for the record I wont accept the apology. We have a lot of questions to answer and we will be taking action.

Scotland Yard said 52 of the 64 arrests made during its coronation operation on Saturday related to concerns individuals were going to disrupt the pageantry.

The force insisted its action was targeted at those believed to be intent on taking this action.

The chief executive of an anti-monarchy group who was among 52 people arrested on the day of the Kings coronation has been released after nearly 16 hours in police custody (PA Media)

Any suggestion all protest was prohibited is not correct, it added.

The force acknowledged that at least one of the six people arrested while unloading placards from a vehicle in St Martins Lane had engaged with its protest liaison team, but said those officers were not present during the arrest.

Taking into account the information that people were seeking to seriously disrupt the event, and the significance of the security operation, officers had been briefed to be extremely vigilant and proactive, it said.

Mr Smith said the speed with which they dropped any action against the group showed officers were aware they had made a very serious error of judgement.

Im obviously relieved they dropped it so quickly but very angry they even went down this road, robbing people of their liberty for absolutely no reason, he said.

The head of anti-monarchy group Republic has branded the detention of him and dozens of others a direct attack on our democracy (PA Wire)

There was no evidence of any ability or intent to commit any offence and they simply decided to arrest us and that is outrageous.

Mr Sunak had defended Scotland Yards operation and denied officers were acting under pressure from ministers.

The police are operationally independent of government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best, he told broadcasters during a visit to Hertfordshire.

Actually, Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully and so safely, that was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

But Mr Smith believed officers had every intention of arresting demonstrators and used the straps as a pre-text to detain the group under the new powers making locking-on to an object a jailable offence.

Graham Smith described the arrests as disgraceful (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

He raised fresh concerns about the Public Order Act signed into law last week, which tips the balance against protest, including by lowering the definition of serious disruption.

The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest, he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

Labour was not committing to repealing the act despite harbouring concerns about its use.

Thousands of Liverpool fans voiced their disapproval at the playing of the national anthem over the weekend (PA Wire)

Andrew Gwynne , the shadow public health minister, said the Act gave disproportionate powers to the police but the party was not committing to repealing it if it enters government.

Instead, he told Sky News: I think the next Labour government will look very carefully at this legislation.

Mr Gwynne defended the right to protest and suggested revellers supporting the coronation should have drowned out the dissent.

That wouldve been the appropriate approach, to drown out those that wanted to protest rather than maybe heavy-handed practice that some have suggested may have taken place, he said.

Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told Today.

This article was amended on May 9 2023 to make it clear that the regret expressed by the Metropolitan Police was because the six anti-monarchy demonstrators who were arrested had been unable to join the wider group of protesters in Trafalgar Square and elsewhere on the procession route. The force did not say it regretted making the arrests.
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The uncle of a teenager stabbed to death in Dagenham on Friday urged anyone caught up in gangs to drop your knife and quit before it is too late.

Police named the 18-year-old victim of the east London stabbing as Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, known as Jordan, and released his picture on Monday.

Metropolitan Police officers and the London Ambulance Service were called to Dagenham Heathway tube station shortly before midnight on 5 May to reports of men armed with machetes nearby.

Officers found 18-year-old Mr Kukabu, from Romford, with stab injuries. He died at the scene. A post-mortem examination held on Sunday gave the cause of death as a single stab wound to the chest.

Local councillor Michel Pongo said he learned with great sadness that his nephew was the victim.

He wrote on Twitter: His mother is inconsolable. If you are [a] gang member, this message is for you: Drop your knife and quit the gangster life before it is too late.

Police said a second man, aged 20, was also taken to hospital with a stab injury  but his condition is non life-threatening.

A 20-year-old man was released with no further action after police arrested him on suspicion of murder, the force added.

His uncle councillor Michel Pongo issued a heartfelt warning to gang members after nephews stabbing death (Barking & Dagenham)

But the same man was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and has been released on bail for this offence.

Police said Mr Kukabus family have been made aware and are being supported by specialist officers.

Detective Chief Inspector James Shirley, from the Specialist Crime Command, said: My thoughts remain with the young mans family and friends.

Dedicated detectives have been working around the clock since this tragic incident as we strive to identify and apprehend those responsible for killing Jordan.

Our investigation is making significant progress. Local people have provided us with information, which together with forensic inquiries and analysis of CCTV is enabling us to build a picture of what happened on Friday night.

Superintendent Martin Rolston, of the Mets East Area Command Unit, said: I am well aware of just how much this shocking incident has affected people in Dagenham and the surrounding area.

I share their concerns and can assure local people that the Mets investigation is painstaking and completely focused on getting justice for the family and friends of Jordan.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or tweet MetCC quoting 8711/05May or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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A 17-year-old boy has died after he was stabbed to death in High Wycombe.

Police are searching for four masked suspects following the attack, which happened on Easton Road, High Wycombe, at around 7pm on Sunday.

Another 17-year-old was injured in the attack, but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Anyone with information or CCTV footage of the attack should contact authorities, police said.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown of Thames Valley Police, said: This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

However, Id like to reassure everyone we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

We are in the very early stages of this investigation and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30 pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.
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The leader of an anti-monarchist group who was detained for demonstrating at the Kings coronation has said the group is considering suing police for unlawful arrest.

Republics leader, Graham Smith, was released on Saturday night after nearly 16 hours in police custody. He was one of 52 protesters from anti-monarchy and environmental groups that were arrested, in what critics called a totalitarian crackdown.

Mr Smith said the group had engaged in discussions with the Metropolitan Police for four months before taking to the streets on Saturday, and insisted officers had repeatedly said they had no concerns about our plans whatsoever.

The force had said it would facilitate anti-monarchy demonstrations unless they contravened existing laws or new powers that came into force last week banning locking-on and causing serious disruption.

But members of the Republic campaign group were arrested on Saturday morning and saw hundreds of placards reading Not My King seized by the force, despite gaining police permission for a rally in Trafalgar Square.

Speaking to Channel 4, Mr Smith explained: Then on the day we turned up with our placards and immediately about 40 or 50 officers descended on us, arrested us, and searched us and our vans.

The head of anti-monarchy group Republic was arrested ahead of a planned protest on Coronation Day (PA Wire)

We were then detained for 16 hours, bailed, phones confiscated. Now, were still waiting to hear whats happened. There are no grounds or any cause for suspicion whatsoever.

He added: When they actually arrested us, it was on suspicion of being equipped to lock on, which we were not equipped to do.

Asked if he was considering suing the police for unlawful arrest as a result, Mr Smith replied: We have certainly been taking legal advice. We have had huge support from the public and legal professionals.

If it goes the way we think it will, we will certainly consider what action we can take next.

Pressed again on whether Republic was looking to sue the Met, he responded: Thats certainly something were considering  and another thing were considering is more protest.

Several action groups raised alarm about the arrests on Saturday, with Animal Rising accusing police of enforcing a totalitarian crackdown and Human Rights hitting out at scenes youd expect to see in Russia not the UK.

King Charles III was crowned on Saturday (Getty)

Asked about the language used to describe the blocking of protest, Mr Smith told the broadcaster: We no longer have the right to protest. Our protest is a freedom which is contingent on political decisions made by senior police officers and members of the government.

So, if they wish to stop a protest from carrying on, they have now the means to stop it without any serious evidence or concern.

The law is so broad and their power so ill-defined, they can simply decide to stop a protest.

He added: The importance of being free to dissent is so crucial to democracy that the line should be drawn fairly generously in favour of protest.

Elsewhere, human rights activist Peter Tatchell has called for an investigation into the Mets decision to go back on its assurances to Republic.

Were very disappointed and angry at police behaviour, he told Good Morning Britain.
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Martin Lewis has issued a warning to pensioners who could miss out on a 301 payment from the government.

The consumer champion shared the advice on Wednesday's Good Morning Britain, where Mr Lewis helps viewers navigate the cost of living crisis in his Wallet Wednesdays segment.

He warned that around a million people have just over two weeks to access a Pension Credit benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions.

Pension Credit is a top-up benefit that helps those of state pension age who are not getting enough income. Now, I've long been saying there are one million pensioners in the UK eligible for it who do not claim it. It's an absolute tragedy, Mr Lewis told viewers.

They've paid into the system for all of their lives and they're not getting this important top-up.

He added that it is a really crucial time to be accessing these payments.

While the current Cost of Living payment has already started being paid out and for most people the eligibility period is over, Pension Credit can be backdated, so what this means is if you are eligible you will get that 301 and you've got until the 19 May in order to claim.

Simply by claiming Pension Credit, even if you're only entitled to a small amount, you will get the 301.

The warning comes as more than seven million households across the UK will have received a 301 cost-of-living payment by the end of Wednesday, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said.

The payments are part of a package of wider government support announced to tackle the cost of living in 2023-24, including a further 300 payment for eligible families in autumn 2023, with a payment of 299 in spring 2024.

Mel Stride, work and pensions secretary, said: Paying more than seven million households 301 in a little over a week underlines our commitment to ensure those on the lowest income are protected from the worst of rising prices and give them peace of mind.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said: We know the impact that rising prices are having on families, which is why we are providing significant support to millions through these direct cash payments.

People will be eligible for the 301 cost-of-living payment if they have been entitled to a payment for certain benefits between 16 January and 15 February 2023, including, for example, universal credit, pension credit and child tax credit.
The UK has room to detain just 3,000 people under Rishi Sunak's small boats bill  less than a tenth of those who came across the Channel last year, The Independent can reveal.

Almost 46,000 people made the crossing in 2022  with 1,300 arriving on a single day last summer  and internal Home Office estimates warn that the figure could rise to 56,000 this year.

However, even after two new immigration removal centres are opened there will still be little over 3,000 detention places, including just 98 reserved for women.
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Talks on renewing Britains business ties with Hong Kong will be held during the first visit to the city by a UK minister since Chinas crackdown on its civil rights.

The Government has condemned the national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British territory in 2020 after mass protests.

The move strained relations and led to the creation of a visa scheme allowing Hong Kongers to come to Britain.

But the UK Government has recently made clear that it wants to maintain engagement with China despite political differences.

For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively Investment minister Dominic Johnson

Investment minister Lord Dominic Johnson will discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong government representatives.

He said he will also stress that the UK will call out the violation of their (Hong Kongers) freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

It comes after the highly controversial attendance of Chinas vice-president Han Zheng, who has been blamed for the curtailment of freedom in the former British territory, at the Kings coronation.

The decision to invite Mr Han was strongly criticised by China hawks on the Tory benches and Lord Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong.

The Foreign Secretary said he made plain the UKs position on Hong Kong when he met with the Chinese vice-president in London ahead of the royal event.

But James Cleverly argued that the UK must engage directly with China in a recent foreign policy speech, angering some Tory critics of China who want ministers to go further in distancing the UK from Beijing and to be more outspoken in criticising its leadership.

Ahead of his trip, Lord Dominic Johnson said: Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excel  from financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

The UKs ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed. For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively  and our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

The UK says China remains in breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, under which it has a duty to uphold Hong Kongs high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms.

Hong Kong was handed over from the UK to China in 1997 with a promise by Beijing to keep western-style liberties under a one country, two systems framework.
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A 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death in Buckinghamshire in a targeted attack, police said.

Thames Valley Police are hunting for up to four suspects  who had their faces covered  following Sunday nights attack in High Wycombe.

Another 17-year-old boy was also hurt but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening and he has been taken to hospital.

This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown

Officers were called to reports of the stabbing in the Easton Street area of High Wycombe at about 7.30pm on Sunday.

No arrests have been made.

Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown said the investigation into the tragic incident was in the very early stages and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

He added: The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.

This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

However, Id like to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

He said there would be a large police presence in the area as officers investigated.

For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up Local MP Steve Baker

On Monday, Wycombe MP Steve Baker, who is also a Northern Ireland Office minister, told the PA news agency: This is a tragic incident and its vital we leave space for the police to conduct their inquiries and, for that reason, I dont want to say much about this continuing inquiry.

But my heart goes out to the young mans family and friends who I do not doubt will feel devastated.

For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up.

Easton Street remained cordoned off on Monday evening as police officers in white forensic suits entered properties and searched front gardens.

One local business owner, whose premises back onto the site of the police investigation, said he was scared.

Akib Tayyab, 28, branch manager of QV Traditional Turkish Barber, said: It was scary because it is behind my shop. Im scared this happened. It is very dangerous.

I hope the police catch them soon because this is not good for our town.

Video footage from Mr Tayyabs premises showed two police tents remained in place in the small car park where the teenager is reported to have been killed.

Mr Tayyab added: You see too much drug dealers and homeless people around here. Its not good.

Saravnan Karuvayan, 46, the manager of Kappad restaurant on High Street, said: I was shocked. We have never had anything like this before.

Were worried because people might think its not a nice place for safety.

Rav Lam, 34, a shop assistant at Londis on High Street, said: I was working here after 7pm on Sunday. Some people told me that some boy got stabbed in the hand. In the morning, people came in and said somebody had been killed.

Its very shocking. Its ridiculous. Usually, I feel safe in this area.

A woman who works close to the scene of the stabbing but did not want to give her name, said, while she did not see the incident, she was a bit scared because its on our doorstep because my shop is just 10 metres from that.

Anyone with information or footage which could help the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 43230199275.

The stabbing came after three people were stabbed to death in separate incidents in east London over a period of less than eight hours on the eve of the coronation.

Renell Charles, 16, was ambushed as he left school and stabbed to death, while murder investigations were also started after the killings of 18-year-old Jordan Kukabu and 27-year-old Sebastian Zon, the Metropolitan Police said.

In another incident, an 18-year-old man who has been named by police as Ben Moncrieff was killed in Bath, in Somerset, in the early hours of Saturday.
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Irish deputy prime minister Micheal Martin has defended comments he made in relation to China, which the Chinese embassy criticised as misleading.

Speaking during a keynote address to the Royal Irish Academy International Affairs Conference last week, Mr Martin spoke about the value of Irelands relationship with China while also warning that it should be monitored.

The Tanaiste told the conference  entitled Human (In)Security in an Unsettled World  that Ireland must be clear-eyed about Chinas objectives, and said that Irelands interests and values differ from those of China.

After highlighting common goals, Mr Martin said we are not naive, and said the private sector and academia need to assess their relationship with China and areas where they may need to de-risk.

He also said we do not intend to be silent when we see evidence of core principles being undermined.

While also issuing those warnings, the Tanaiste emphasised the 34.5 billion euro two-way trading relationship in 2021.

He said Irelands engagement with China on global issues increased during the pandemic years, largely due to Irelands two-year tenure on the UN Security Council.

We were most successful in finding solutions when we were frank in our views  and clear with each other  about where we were willing to compromise, and where we were not, he said.

The Chinese embassy in Ireland responded by acknowledging the positive comments, but criticised other parts of the address as over-exaggerated and misleading.

Responding to Mr Martins calls that China has not acknowledged that Russia started the war, and his call for China to push for its end, the embassy said China always stands on the side of peace.

It also said that China would not sit idly by, nor would it add oil to the fire, still less exploit the situation for self gains.

Speaking to reporters in Cork on Monday, Mr Martin said that his speech was a very measured and balanced presentation.

He said: in respect of our relationship with China and the relationship with the European Union and China into the future, to be clear-eyed about it, to be clear on the importance of maintaining strong economic, social and cultural ties with China, but also then to be in a position to look at everything through the prism of an international rules-based order which also involves raising and articulating issues pertaining to personal freedoms and human rights, also.

Mr Martin was also asked about the comments by the Russian embassy in response to the death of an Irishman in Ukraine.

Again, my own perspective on that at the time was there was a family mourning and a family grieving the loss of their son and I didnt want to say anything at that time to cause any additional trauma for the family, the Foreign Affairs minister said.

Its terrible for them and I think the Russian ambassador in my view shouldnt have commented.

I think, as we have said, his comments were a distortion, were unacceptable and in my view were not reflective of either my position or the countrys position more generally.

Despite those criticisms, Mr Martin downplayed the presence of four Russian ships in Irish waters last week.

He said: I think this is ongoing in terms of over the years and indeed in more recent times, various vessels and ships from Russia indeed can enter into the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Its carefully monitored by Ireland and indeed by others, and thats an ongoing scenario where people track whats happening within international waters and indeed within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone which is quite large in itself.

So I dont see it as a threat, its something that were conscious of and we keep a very close eye on.
A fresh twist appears to have deepened the crisis over the race for the Senate presidency and speakership of the House of Representatives of the 10th National Assembly, as four main contenders at the weekend engaged in alliance talks.

This is even as the North Central zone of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is set on a warpath with the leadership of the governing party over the speakership position.

Leaders of the governing party, including president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and governors on the party's platform had on Friday endorsed Senator Godswill Akpabio and Hon Tajudeen Abbas as Senate president and Speaker of the House of Representatives respectively.

Similarly, Senator Barau Jubrin, Kano North Senatorial district (North West) was picked as Deputy President of the Senate, even as the position of deputy Speaker of the House was given to the outgoing spokesman of the 9th Assembly, Hon Benjamin Kalu, who represents Bende federal constituency of Abia State.

Our sister publication, LEADERSHIP Sunday, had reported yesterday that stiff opposition was gradually mounting against the consensus candidates of the party, with federal lawmakers in the race for the leadership of the National Assembly not willing to give up their ambitions.

But LEADERSHIP gathered that Leaders of the governing party, including president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and governors on the party's platform had on Friday endorsed Senator Godswill Akpabio and Hon Tajudeen Abbas.

It was learnt that the speakership front runners, Ahmed Idris Wase (current deputy Speaker), Aliyu Murktar Betara (chairman, House committee on Appropriation), Sada Soli and Sani Jaji met on Saturday night.

At the meeting held at the private residence of one of them in Maitama District, Abuja, it was learnt that the aspirants agreed to work together and present a common front.

The meeting of the four lawmakers came 24 hours after that Abbas from Kaduna State had been adopted as the preferred choice of what a source described as the 'Lagos cabal' led by the Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

This is even as a crack emerged in the Lagos State House of Representatives caucus over the purported adoption and endorsement of Abbas as the preferred choice of Tinubu.

A close confidant of Tinubu and secretary of the now dissolved presidential campaign council, james Faleke, was said to have confronted Gbajabiamila amd accused him of 'misinformation'.

As a prerequisite, the four lawmakers have directed their supporters to attend the declaration of each of them.

Wase, for instance, asked all his supporters to attend the declaration of Betara slated today at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

At the time of filing this report, our source pegged the combined figures of supporters of the four aspirants at 287.

It was, however, unclear who among them was likely to be presented and backed for the speakership contest.

All the same, an impeccable source close to the meeting of the four aspirants hinted that the lawmalers have agreed to present a "formidable common front", just as a joint committee involving their confidants has been set up to harmonise positions and present a workable template within seventy two hours.

The source who did not want his name in print said, "From the onset, we knew what the outgoing Speaker was up to but we merely waited for him to unveil his agenda which he has done now. Interestingly, those of us on this divide do not want to believe Mr President-elect is part of this charade.

"We know he cannot because he knows too well, the implications of such action. It is either he has resolved to use Gbajabiamila to subjugate the north or Gbajabiamila is acting a script without the knowledge of the incoming president.

"In all these we are doing, we respect the president elect even though some persons are dropping his name. We are even more convinced that he knows nothing about what Gbajabiamila is doing because James Faleke is as close as anyone, to the president-elect.

"If Faleke could openly confront Gbajabiamila in their Lagos Reps caucus meeting that the purported endorsement of Abbas by Tinubu is not correct, then something is wrong somewhere".

It was gathered that at the Lagos caucus meeting, Faleke who is the chairman of the House committee on Finance disclosed at the meeting hosted by the Speaker that Tinubu's real choice for the position of Speaker remained Jaji from Zamfara.

He was equally said to have accused Gbajabiamila of deliberate misinformation to the public on the issue of speakership, saying the Abbas adoption was his (speaker's) petsonal agenda and not a decision of the party nor Tinubu's.

Following the development, Gbajabiamila yesterday held secret meetings with the deputy Speaker of the House, Idris Ahmed Wase and the chairman House Committee on Appropriation, Aliyu Mukhtar Betara.

Although details of the meeting were not revealed to our correspondent, a source familiar with the development hinted that Gbajabiamila is jittery about the outcome of an alliance between Wase and Betara against Hon Abass, the candidate reportedly endorsed by the APC and president-elect.

When contacted, the chief press secretary to the Wase, Umar Puma, could not confirm that his principal held a meeting with the Speaker.

He, however, confirmed the meeting with three other aspirants but did not disclose details.

"I honestly cannot confirm that the deputy speaker met with the the speaker. But I know that he help a private meeting with Hon Betara and others," Puma said.

North Central Spoils For War

Meanwhile, as the scramble for key positions in the leadership of the 10th Assembly intensifies, there are indications that the North Central zone of the APC is set on a warpath with the leadership of the governing party over the Speakership position.

Stakeholders of the party from the zone yesterday insisted vehemently that the zone must produce the next Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 10th Assembly because it is their turn.

The stakeholders under the aegis of North Central APC Stakeholders stated their position at a press conference in Abuja.

Convener of the stakeholders, Hon Dominic Alancha, told journalists that zoning of the Speakership position to North West was a deliberate attempt to exclude the North Central.

Noting that president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rode on the party's zoning arrangements to clinch the presidential ticket of the party, the stakeholders said the same APC and Tinubu cannot be violators of the same zoning formula that gave them an easy ride.

Alancha stated: "We are again compelled to invoke our mandate to address you this morning due to an anomaly we have detected in the direction APC leadership in the country is taking in the course of zoning key offices in the 10th Assembly which we feel may not augur well for our democracy.

"We are constrained to register our disappointment and to protest the decision of the APC Leadership to zone two Presiding Positions Deputy Senate President and Speaker in the 10th National Assembly in favour of the Northwest to the total exclusion of the North Central and other zones in the country.

Obi Urges LP Caucus To Back Choice Aspirants

Meanwhile, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has expressed neutrality in the ongoing leadership imbroglio of the 10th Assembly.

Obi, at a meeting with elected lawmakers on the platform of LP in Abuja on Saturday, declined to direct the party's caucus on the choice of leadership for the National Assembly.

Obi, who asked the lawmakers-elect to exercise their discretion, however, advised them to give their support to their preferred aspirants as a group. According to him, such moves would enhance their bargaining power.

The LP caucus of the House of Representatives, also on Saturday, elected Hon. Victor Afam Ogene, of Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State, as leader of the caucus in the House.

It was learnt that 35 Reps-elect and seven senator-elect, on the platform of LP, were present at the forum.

"We met at K-Class at Wuse in Abuja, on Saturday to elect our leader and discuss the LP position on the leadership of the House of Representatives. Surprisingly, H. E. Peter Obi, said he was not concerned about the direction when we asked him to show us the way. He said we are free to decide on our own but he advised that we should do it together, we should be cohesive. We said we will gain more than when we are scattered," an LP Rep-elect, told LEADERSHIP.

'Tinubu Should Be Neutral'

The Renewed Hope Professionals has urged the president-elect Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu to maintain neutrality in the ongoing jostle for leadership positions in the 10th National Assembly.

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The professionals in a statement signed by its coordinator, Kinu Kabirwa noted that the operations of the parliament is quite different from regular party politics, therefore, the president elect should be fair to all.

"The parliament operates under the dictum of first among equals and any attempt to foist any form of leadership on members may be counterproductive," Kabiriwa said.

Apparently disturbed by allegations of moves designed to anoint aspirants for key positions in the 10th Assembly, the group of professionals declared that the very cornerstone of a healthy democracy is the freedom of choice, and the imposition of candidates by those in positions of authority has led to a legitimacy crisis in the country since the return to democracy in 1999.

The group asserted that as an advocate for competitive democracy, the president-elect must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to a level playing field for all contestants.

"The APC, under the leadership of His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), set a powerful example in the primaries that produced the president-elect as the Flag bearer of the APC. The world saw the beauty of progressive politics when Mr. President insisted on a level playing field for all contestants, and we must not backtrack on this laudable legacy.

Buhari, Tinubu Loyalists Tussle Over Akpabio

Indications have emerged that the loyalists of the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari and the president-elect, Tinubu, may be at loggerheads over the choice of Senator Godswill Akpabio as the consensus candidate for the senate presidency of the 10th National Assembly.

It was learnt that some loyalists of President Muhammadu Buhari frown at the selection of Akpabio who consider his choice as not positive for the fight against corruption, because of his alleged corruption cases by anti-graft agency.

It was further learnt that over the weekend some Buhari's close associates held a strategic meetings on how to use the political means and government institutions to stop the senator-elect.

According to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Akpabio's choice did not go down well with most core loyalists of the president and they have informed him of the implications.
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The European Union delegation in Israel has cancelled its Europe Day diplomatic reception over the planned participation of far-right Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Regrettably, this year we have decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the EU stands for, the delegation said in a statement.

Brussels marks 9 May as Europe Day, honouring a 1950 French declaration that led to the founding of the body that became the EU. National security minister Mr Ben-Gvir was set to represent the Israeli government at this years event.

The EU reaction, however, underlines the diplomatic upsets facing the religious-nationalist coalition led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose alliance with Mr Ben-Gvir and fellow pro-settler leader Bezalel Smotrich has caused unease even among Israel's international allies.

Mr Ben-Gvir, head of the far-right Jewish Power party, was convicted in 2007 of racist incitement against Arabs and backing a group considered by Israel and the United States to be a terrorist organisation.

It is a shame that the European Union, which claims to represent the values of democracy and multiculturalism, is engaging in undiplomatic silencing, Mr Ben-Gvir said in a statement. Friends know how to express criticism and true friends also know how to hear it, he said.

Mr Netanyahu is himself still waiting for an invitation to visit Washington, and opposition leader Yair Lapid accused the government of picking unnecessary fights.

Managing Israels foreign relations is a complex matter that requires expertise and a smart approach, he said in a tweet.

Reuters
Labour is under pressure to say whether it would scrap the Tories new anti-protest law  accused by other opposition parties of being spineless in the face of the chilling crackdown.

The Public Order Act has been thrust into the headlines after the arrest of republican campaigners before King Charles IIIs coronation sparked widespread outrage.

Labour frontbencher Andrew Gwynne said on Monday that a Labour government would look very carefully at this legislation  arguing that we need to see how its working.
A Labour government would impose new restrictions on foreign buyers of property in the UK as part of a push to help more young Britons on to the property ladder.

Keir Starmers party would raise stamp duty on overseas buyers and stop them snapping up more than 50 per cent of homes on any new development.

The party would also give Britains first-time buyers first dibs on new build homes for a certain period of time to stop so many being purchased by foreign investors.
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Vey few tears would have been shed in parts of the UK if the 1984 IRA Brighton bombing killed Margaret Thatcher, former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams has claimed.

The 1984 IRA bombing of the Grand Hotel in Brighton during the Conservative Party conference killed five and injured 31.

MP Sir Anthony Berry was killed, along with party chairman Eric Taylor, and the wives of three Tory MPs - Lady Jeanne Shattock, Lady Muriel Maclean and Roberta Wakeham. However, Mrs Thatcher was uninjured in the bombing.

Gerry Adams stepped down as leader of Sinn Fein in 2018 after more than three decades in the role (PA Wire)

On an episode of The Rest Is Politics podcast, presented by Alistair Campbell and Rory Stewart, Mr Adams said: There would be very few tears shed for Margaret Thatcher in Republican Ireland, or in many villages in Wales and working-class Scotland and England itself.

Asked if he would have been happy if Mrs Thatcher died, Mr Adams replied: Happiness or happy is not a term I would use. The fact is, there was a war.

Margaret Thatcher was notorious, not just for her presiding over the deaths of the hunger strikers, which could have been easily resolved, by very simple improvements in the prison regime.

But also because she was upfront, and she was being the Iron Lady, and she was masquerading as being somebody who was indomitable, and so on.

But, its done, its over, its gone. All of that was in the past.

The Grand Hotel in Brighton after a bombing by the IRA, during the Conservative Party Conference, 12 October 1984 (Getty Images)

Former soldier and Tory MP Rory Stewart challenged Mr Adams about his remarks:

Stewart said: I joined the British army in 1991, and my first barracks, Clive Barracks, had been blown up by the IRA two years earlier in 1989, and I was listening to your answer on the Brighton bombing.

And I guess some listeners will feel like me, a real disquiet with your answer, because theyll feel among those people who were killed were just wives of Tory MPs going to a Conervarive Party conference going to bed in a Brighton hotel and they get blown up.

It isnt what most people think of as a war - that these werent legitimate combatants.

The Northern Irish politician replied: I never went to war.

You came to me, you know. You came in, in khaki and tanks. I think including the deaths of British soldiers and RUC officers, all those deaths are to be regretted.

Its a regrettable part of our history. And, clearly for civilians, for them to be killed, it doesnt matter if it was an accident or not. Thats even more regrettable, and thankfully were now out of all that, and we need to learn the lessons of it.

The damaged Brighton hotel where Mrs Thatcher and the cabinet were staying after it was hit by the 1984 IRA bomb (PA)

Following the announcement of the death of Mrs Thatcher in 2013, Mr Adams claimed the former prime minister did great hurt to the Irish and British people during her time as British prime minister.

Working-class communities were devastated in Britain because of her policies, he said.

Gerry Adams stepped down as leader of Sinn Fein in 2018 after more than three decades in the role.
Conservative chairman Greg Hands was accused of having a midas touch for opposition parties after figures showed his party was hammered in many of the places he visited during the local election campaign.

The Tories lost more than 1,000 seats while Labour picked up more than 500  leading Sir Keir Starmer to claim his party is on course for a majority victory at next years general election.

The Liberal Democrats, who saw their best local election results in more than a decade, said they gained 208 council seats in blue wall areas in the south of England visited by Mr Hands.
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Ambulance workers in the South East will strike on Tuesday as Unite escalates its industrial action in a long-running dispute over pay.

Unites members employed at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust and South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Trust will strike from 12pm until 10pm.

Last month, Unites members and those in the Royal College of Nursing employed in the NHS in England rejected the Governments offer of a lump sum cash payment for 2022/23 and a 5% pay rise for this year.

Members of most other health unions accepted the offer.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: The Government must reopen negotiations to ensure that a proper wage offer is made to NHS workers.

We have always said that a non-consolidated lump sum for 22/23 would not cut it. So it has turned out.

The current offer does nothing to resolve the recruitment and retention crisis crippling the NHS.

The strike action by our South East ambulance workers is part of Unites escalation strategy to exert greater pressure on the Government.
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Ukraines Eurovision act said they felt part of a family of countries trying to win the fight against evil as they arrived at the song contests opening ceremony.

Electronic duo Tvorchi, representing last years winning country Ukraine, joined the 36 other artists for the Turquoise Carpet welcome ceremony in Liverpool on Sunday.

The duos producer Andrii Hutsuliak said: Were very excited that we have such friends as the United Kingdom hosting this here.

This really means a lot to us, it makes our hearts warm.

Its great to be a big family with all countries around to win the fight against the evils that came to our land, because we dont destroy, we create.

He said he was excited to perform in the final on Saturday.

We want to show what we were preparing for all this period of time and we hope we can inspire people, he said

We want people to know that no matter how hard time is, because definitely everyone has it, we want everyone to have a good attitude in a negative situation.

Vocalist Jeffery Kenny said their experience in the contest so far had been beautiful.

Asked what Eurovision fans could expect from their performance, he said: They can expect a show of confidence, a show of bravery and courage and a show that we will win the war at the end of the day.

UK entry Mae Muller said it was an honour to be the host country on behalf of Ukraine.

She said: It feels really, really special. Were really grateful to be hosting in the UK but its important to remember that its their party, its just at our house.

I love the Tvorchi boys, I think they are brilliant.

Muller, who will perform I Wrote A Song at next weeks final, said: The nerves are there. Theyre there, theyre having a little party inside but Im just trying to stay focused, focus on the positives and try and enjoy it.

Hundreds of fans lined the carpet for the welcome ceremony, hosted by Olympian Sam Quek and Ukrainian presenter Timur Miroshnychenko.

Conor ODonohoe, from Irish band Wild Youth, said: Its all starting to feel very real. Everyones getting here now, all the press are here and family are starting to fly in, so its all starting to kind of really settle in.

Bookies favourite Loreen said returning to the competition after winning in 2012, she felt like she already knew the community.

She said: We unite around music. These are all positive vibrations.

Kaarija, representing Finland and wearing a fluorescent green leather outfit, said he was so happy to be at the ceremony.

He said: Im excited. Im not nervous because I just want to do my best and enjoy.

This is not so serious. Why not? Live my best life. Im ready to win.

The contestants wore their finest for the occasion, with Croatian group Let 3 taking to the carpet in bustled gowns accessorised with military-style peaked hats and facial hair.

In scenes reminiscent of 1981 UK Eurovision entry Bucks Fizz, the group whipped off their gowns while having their photos taken to reveal white petticoats and vests.

Latvian group Sudden Lights paid homage to Liverpools most famous music act the Beatles by recreating the outfits worn on the Abbey Road album cover.

The ceremony was followed by The National Lotterys Big Eurovision Welcome outside St Georges Hall, with performances from Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Atomic Kitten.
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A 17-year-old boy was buried alive under several feet of sand after the walls of a hole and a dune collapsed on him on a North Carolina beach.

The unidentified teen, who had been visiting Cape Hatteras National Seashore near Frisco from Chesapeake, Virginia, became trapped in a hole on Saturday (6 May). Seashore rangers responded to the scene around 2pm after receiving several 911 calls in connection with the incident, the National Park Service said.

Prior to arriving on scene, family and friends went looking for the teenager and found him buried under several feet of sand, apparently caused by portions of the adjacent dune collapsing into the hole, the statement read.

Family members at the scene and park rangers performed CPR on the teen without success. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators determined that a hole had been dug in a back-dune area behind the primary dune and not visible from the beachfront, according to the News & Observer. It is unclear who dug the hole.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers our condolences to his family and friends, David Hallac, a superintendent at National Parks of Eastern North Carolina, said.

We urge visitors not to dig deep holes on the beach due to the danger they present to beachgoers and emergency response staff.
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Lawyers on each side of the E Jean Carroll v Donald Trump trial delivered closing arguments on Monday (8 May), wrapping up the proceedings a day before jurors were expected to start deliberating.

The trial began on 25 April in Manhattan federal court. It stems from a civil complaint filed by Ms Carroll against Mr Trump last year, for battery and defamation. She alleges that Mr Trump raped her in a dressing room at a Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan, in 1995 or 1996, and defamed her in a subsequent denial. Mr Trump has maintained he did not attack Ms Carroll.

Judge Lewis A Kaplan told jurors that they would begin deliberations on Tuesday (9 May), after he spends about an hour reading them the law that will pertain to battery and defamation. If jurors find in Ms Carrolls favor, they can award damages.

Ms Kaplan did not specify the amount of money jurors should award Ms Carroll in damages, if they find in her favour, per Reuters. She said Ms Carroll had been unable to sustain a romantic relationship since the alleged rape, and that Mr Trumps public criticism had harmed her clients reputation.

For E. Jean Carroll, this lawsuit is not about the money, she said. This lawsuit is about getting her name back.

No one is above the law

Attorney Roberta Kaplan, who represents Ms Caroll (and who isnt related to Judge Kaplan), urged jurors to hold Mr Trump accountable, stating that no one is above the law  not even a former president, according to the Associated Press.

Ms Kaplan referred to the 2005 Access Hollywood tape that made headlines in 2016, when Mr Trump was running for president, in which he can be heard claiming that when youre a star, you can do anything to women, including [grabbing] them by the p***y.

Ms Kaplan played the Access Hollywood tape in court on Monday, recalling his comment that "stars like him can get away with sexually assaulting women, the AP reported.

Thats who Donald Trump is. That is how he thinks. And thats what he does, Ms Kaplan said. He thinks he can get away with it here.

Eleven witnesses

Ms Kaplan contrasted the 11 witnesses Ms Carrolls side put forward (including Ms Carroll herself) to Mr Trumps decision not to testify in person during the trial. (Mr Trump provided a video deposition.)

He didnt even bother to show up here in person, Ms Kaplan said, according to the AP. She told jurors that much of what Mr Trump said in a video deposition and in public statements actually supports our side of the case.

In a very real sense, Donald Trump is a witness against himself, she said. He knows what he did. He knows that he sexually assaulted E Jean Carroll.

Attorney Mike Ferrara told jurors of Mr Trump, per Reuters: He never looked you in the eye and denied raping Ms Carroll. You should draw the conclusion that that's because he did it.

Ms Kaplan recounted the testimony of two women who say they too were attacked sexually by Mr Trump.

Jessica Leeds, 81, said he grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt on a 1979 airline flight, according to the AP. Natasha Stoynoff said he forcibly kissed her at his Florida mansion in 2005 as she worked on a story about his marriage for People magazine.

"Three different women, decades apart, but one single pattern of behavior," Ms Kaplan said, per Reuters.

Mr. Trumps defense

In his own closing argument, Mr Trumps lawyer Joseph Tacopina urged jurors to set aside any opinions they might have about Mr Trump, and sought to discredit Ms Carrolls allegations.

"What E Jean Carroll has done here is an affront to justice, he said, according to Reuters. She has abused this system by bringing a false claim for amongst other things money, status, political reasons.

Mr Tacopina said Ms Carrolls inability to recall the date of the alleged incident made it impossible for Mr Trump to defend himself.

With no date, no month, no year, you cant present an alibi, you cant call witnesses, he said, per Reuters. What they want is for you to hate him enough to ignore the facts.

Mr Tacopina told jurors they wont have to let [Ms Carroll] profit to the tune of millions of dollars because they will be left with no doubt about how this story, this scam of a lawsuit, came together, according to The Associated Press.

The outlet noted that Mr Tacopina repeatedly labeled Carrolls claims unbelievable, saying she brought them to raise her status and for political reasons.

This is an absolutely outrageous case, Mr Tacopina said, according to Reuters. The facts in evidence make plain here that E Jean Carrolls story is not worthy of your belief, not even close.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this story
"More alarming are allegations in the public space of attempts by certain APC leaders to compromise the judiciary with heavy financial inducement and to orchestrate trumped-up allegations of impropriety against judicial officers."

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised the alarm over an alleged plan to influence the decision of the panel presiding over the presidential election petition tribunal.

The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba at a press conference on Sunday said there are indications that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is attempting to influence the tribunal judgement in favour of its candidate, Bola Tinubu.

Mr Ologunagba claimed that some leaders of the APC are inducing members of the panel sitting on the presidential election tribunal with "heavy financial inducement."

"More alarming are allegations in the public space of attempts by certain APC leaders to compromise the judiciary with heavy financial inducement and to orchestrate trumped-up allegations of impropriety against judicial officers," he said.

The PDP spokesperson challenged leadership of the ruling APC to speak on the allegations if they are not guilty.

"The PDP calls on the APC and its leaders to immediately come clean and publicly address Nigerians and the world on these disturbing allegations and revelations which are already in the public domain."

Intimidation

Mr Ologunagba also said it received credible information that some youth who opposed the planned transitioning of power to Mr Tinubu were being harassed, threatened and attacked.

He noted that the continuous intimidation of youth is evidence that Nigerians do not want a government controlled by the APC.

"The PDP also alerts of recent intimidation, harassment, threats and vicious attacks by APC leaders against Nigerian youths and eminent Nigerian personalities for speaking out against APC's planned moves to install a government that does not enjoy the mandate of the majority of Nigerians as expressed at the Polling Units.

"The alleged planned onslaught by APC leaders on eminent Nigerians and our democratic institutions, including the Judiciary, stems from APC's apprehensions given the weight of evidence against it as well as the continuing refusal by majority of Nigerians to accept the outcome of the flawed Presidential election.

"There are apprehensions in the public space, having regards to the reputation of certain individuals within the highest level of the APC who have demonstrated capacity and proclivity to compromise democratic institutions in our country.

"Further to this is the provocative resort by the APC and its leaders to threaten Nigerians with treason for speaking out against the manipulations of our democratic processes by the APC"

"For emphasis, majority of Nigerians are insisting on the review of the February 25, 2023 Presidential election because it was marred by wide-spread manipulations, open alteration of genuine election results from the Polling Units, allocation of fictitious figures to the APC and brazen violation of the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022 as well as INEC Manual and Guidelines by INEC itself in its declaration of a winner of the election."

Corruption

Mr Ologunagba also accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of being corrupt.

He said the INEC under the leadership of Mahmood Yakubu is corrupt for requesting that the petition filed by presidential candidate of PDP, Atiku Abubakar, be dismissed.

"The bizarre response by INEC, which is an umpire that ought to be independent, to the Petition of the PDP and our Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, requesting for the dismissal of our petition, is further evidence of the complicity, corruption and compromise of INEC by the APC.

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"It is instructive for INEC and the APC to note that the tribunal hearing is part of the electoral process. The APC and INEC are therefore advised to halt further steps to hinder the ability of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to dispense justice in the matter in accordance with the law.

"It is imperative to state that the reckless violation by INEC of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, INEC Guidelines and Manual in the 2023 Presidential election portend grave consequences to our democracy and political stability as a country.

"The only way to guarantee peace, unity and stability of our nation is to uphold the Will of the people as expressed at the Polling Units in the February 25, 2023 Presidential election and the PDP is confident in the ability of the Judiciary to discharge its Constitutional duties in this regard independently," he said.
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Newly-released audio has captured convicted killer Alex Murdaugh blaming his family dogs for the death of his housekeeper  as he now attempts to walk back the claim five years later.

In a 2018 interview, the disgraced legal dysnasty heir claims that he had gone to work on the morning of 2 February 2018 when he received a call from his wife Maggie.

In the call, Maggie told him that their longtime housekeeper Gloria Satterfield had been injured at the Murdaugh family home on their 1,700-acre Moselle estate in South Carolina.

I went to work that morning and I received a phone call from my wife that Gloria was injured  seriously injured  and asking me if I could come home, he says.

I immediately left and headed to Moselle.

He says he sped to the home  making the journey in around 10 minutes  and arrived before emergency responders.

On arriving I found Gloria, my wife and son Paul and employee Ronnie Freeman in the landing area at the bottom of the steps, he says.

Murdaugh says that Gloria was sitting up and there was a big pool of blood on the ground.

A lot of blood on the side of her face and shortly after I arrived EMS arrived and tended to her, he says.

Before Satterfield was taken away in the ambulance, Murdaugh claims that he asked her what had happened.

She indicated that the dogs had caused her to fall, he says.

The interview  released on Monday by attorneys representing Satterfields sons  was conducted back in 2018 as part of an insurance claim brought over her death.

Satterfield, who worked for the family for more than 20 years, died on 26 February 2018  three weeks after she was found at the bottom of the steps leading into the Murdaugh familys home.

Alex Murdaugh testifying at his murder trial (AP)

At the time, Murdaugh claimed that she had tripped over the familys dogs and hit her head, and her death was regarded as an accidental fall.

However, her death certificate cited her manner of death as natural and no autopsy was ever carried out.

In an investigative report accompanying the claim in November 2018  and also released on Monday  the investigator wrote how Murdaugh had claimed Satterfield indicated something to him about the dogs tripped her up.

Alex told me that he had heard, from one or more of Satterfields relatives he cannot really recall, was that Satterfield had reported that the dogs tripped her up, the report added.

The document also included accounts from Murdaughs wife Maggie and son Paul  who he brutally murdered on the grounds of the same Moselle property three years later in June 2021.

Both Maggie and Paul said that they were inside the house sleeping when they were woken by the sound of the familys dogs barking, the report states.

Maggie said that she had heard the dogs barking in an unusual tone, as if something had happened and went outside to find Satterfield lying on the ground with a bleeding head wound.

She said that Satterfield was conscious but was mumbling gibberish and did not what happened, the report states.

At the time, the familys four dogs  Bubba, Blue, Bourbon and Sassie  were near Satterfield.

Satterfield never told Maggie why Satterfield fell, the report says.

Gloria Satterfield died in a trip and fall at the Murdaugh home in 2018 (Provided)

Maggie said that she believed one or more of the dogs had caused Satterfield to trip and fall, however, describing the chocolate lab Bourbon as just horrible and always whining, seeking attention, and getting excited.

Paul, meanwhile, said in an interview he gave that he remembers that his father Alex arrived and asked what happened and that Satterfield said something about dogs.

The interview and investigative report were released by attorneys Eric Bland and Ronnie Richter on Monday as they push back on Murdaughs sudden change in version of events as to what happened to Satterfield  and accuse the serial liar of lying about lying.

Following her death, Murdaugh claimed he would bring a wrongful death lawsuit against himself on behalf of Satterfields two sons.

He did but then allegedly stole $4m in settlement money for himself and the housekeepers sons didnt get a dime.

Murdaugh is now charged with stealing $4m from Satterfields family as part of a decade-long multi-million-dollar fraud scheme where he stole millions from his law firm and legal clients.

He is also being sued by insurance company Nautilus for insurance fraud after he allegedly pocketed the money meant for the Satterfield family himself.

Last week, in court documents responding to that lawsuit, Murdaugh made a bombshell confession claiming he had invented the story that Satterfield tripped over the dogs  claiming he did so in order to ensure the life insurance company paid up.

No dogs were involved in the fall of Gloria Satterfield on February 2, 2018, the documents read.

After Ms. Satterfields death, Defendant invented Ms. Satterfields purported 2 statement that dogs caused her fall to force his insurers to make a settlement payment, and he stated that she was not on the property to perform work.

He also went onto claim that Satterfields sons  his alleged fraud victims  should also be facing legal action from Nautilus because they have recovered more than $7.5m as a result of the wrongful death suit.

If Nautilus never should have made any payment to the Satterfield estate and only attempted to do so because it was the victim of fraud, then the parties in possession of a recovery of the money allegedly stolen from Nautilus are necessary parties to an action by Nautilus for recovery of that money because (a) the court cannot accord complete relief among [the] existing parties in their absence, and (b) those persons and entities claim[] an interest relating to the subject of this action and their absence will leave [existing parties] subject to a substantial risk of incurring double, multiple, or otherwise inconsistent obligations because of that interest, he wrote.

Buster, Maggie, Paul and Alex Murdaugh (Maggie Murdaugh/Facebook)

In a press conference on Monday, Mr Richter hit out at the latest misinformation campaign from the well-documented liar.

As if he has not caused enough damage to the Satterfield fam, Murdaugh took additional steps in the lawsuit, he said.

Mr Bland said that Murdaugh was lying by changing his story in an effort to try to sway Nautilus to recoup the stolen money from the Satterfields and not from himself.

He wants to keep the money, he said.

Mr Bland explained that if the dogs did not cause the trip and fall accident, then this would potentially mean that Murdaugh  and the insurance company  would no longer be liable to pay out.

He said that this was merely the latest efforts by Murdaugh to avoid accountability.

Its very convenient that the three people who could contradict Alex are all dead  Paul, Maggie and Gloria, he said.

Questions have long been swirling around Satterfields death after the string of deaths, stolen money and corruption surrounding Murdaugh came to light.

In September 2021, an investigation was reopened into her death and investigators said they planned to exhume her body.

This came just days after Murdaughs financial fraud scheme came to light and three months after the double murder of his wife Maggie and son Paul  who were shot to death on the same property where Satterfield had her fatal fall.

This March, Murdaugh was found guilty of the 7 June 2021 murders and was sentenced to life in prison.

At his high-profile trial, jurors heard how he was motivated to kill his family in a bid to distract from his financial crimes which were on the brink of exposure  including the theft from the Satterfield family.

Satterfields death isnt the only mystery death tied to the South Carolina legal dynasty.

A homicide investigation has also been opened into the 2015 death of Stephen Smith, who was found dead in the middle of a road in Hampton County.

The openly gay 19-year-old had suffered blunt force trauma to the head and his death was officially ruled a hit-and-run. But Smiths family have long doubted this version of events, with the Murdaugh name cropping up in several police tips and community rumours.

At the time of his murder, Paul was also awaiting trial for the boat crash death of Mallory Beach.
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A three-year-old boy, two elementary-age sisters, a young engineer from India and mall workers are among the eight people killed in last weekends horror mass shooting in Allen, Texas.

The shooting unfolded at around 3.30pm local time at the crowded Dallas-area Allen Premium Outlets mall on Saturday as families and friends enjoyed their weekends.

Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old former security guard believed to have harboured neo-Nazi and white supremacist beliefs, drove to the mall armed with an AR-15-style rifle and opened fire on innocent shoppers and workers.

He was killed by a law enforcement officer who was on the scene and rushed to subdue the gunman.

Eight people were killed and seven others injured.

Police have not released a possible motive behind the shooting, but the gunman was wearing a patch reading RWDS  that stands for Right Wing Death Squad  as he carried out the rampage.

Police sources told NBC News that Garcia  an army veteran who worked as a security guard  had also posted neo-Nazi and white supremacist content online.

While details are yet to emerge about the gunman and what led up to the horror attack, the identities of those killed are coming to light.

Heres what we know so far about the victims:

Christian LaCour

Christian LaCour, a security guard who worked at the mall, was identified as one of the people killed in the gunfire by his family.

LaCour was 20 years old and had grown up in nearby Farmersville area.

He was working as a security guard at the mall when he was shot and killed on Saturday.

Christian LaCour was killed in the shooting in Allen, Texas (Facebook)

LaCours grandmother had posted on social media on Saturday, saying his family was unable to locate him.

She then later paid tribute to him in another post.

He was such a beautiful soul, she wrote. I was so proud of him and so glad I got to see him 2 weeks ago.

LaCours family said they are still processing his passing and that it has broken their hearts that they have had to spread this news to others.

Aishwarya Thatikonda

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 26-year-old engineer who moved to the US from India, was also identified by family members as one of the victims.

Thatikonda was shopping with a friend at the mall when she was shot and killed by the gunman, a family representative told WFAA.

Aishwarya Thatikonda died in the Allen mall shooting (Family photo)

Her friend was also shot and injured in the shooting and is currently in a stable condition in hospital.

Thatikondas family is planning to fly her body to India, where she has family.

Kyu Song Cho, Cindy Cho and James Cho

Three-year-old James Cho was among the eight killed in the shooting, along with his parents Kyu Song Cho, 37 and Cindy Cho, 35, according to officials.

His six-year-old brother was also present at the mall and suffered injuries, but survived and was released from the ICU. He is the only surviving member of the family.

Parents Cindy and Kyu Cho were killed along with their three-year-old son James in the Texas mall shooting (GoFundMe)

According to a GoFundMe page set up by friends and relatives, the Cho family had gone to Allen Premium Outlets mall on Saturday to exchange clothes that their six-year-old son had received as a birthday present a few days earlier.

Friends of the family, who set up the page, wrote that the afternoon, which was supposed to be filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre.

The Cho family was identified by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The Dallas Morning News newspaper cited Korean consulate officials confirming that the Cho family were American citizens of Korean descent and that diplomats are in contact with their family members.

Daniela and Sofia Mendoza

Sisters Daniela, 11, and Sofia Mendoza, 8, were among those killed in the horror attack while they were shopping at the outlet mall with their mother.

Wylie Independent School District paid tribute to the two elementary school students at Cox Elementary School, who were in grades four and two respectively.

They were remembered by their school principal Krista Wilson as the kindest, most thoughtful students with smiles that could light up any room in a letter to parents.

In a GoFundMe launched to help the family, organiser Anabel Del Angel revealed that their mother survived the attack but is still in hospital.

Sisters Daniela, 11, and Sofia Mendoza, 8, were among those killed at the Allen mall massacre (GoFundMe)

With a heavy heart, we share that our beautiful Daniela and Sofia have passed away. They were tragically taken from us by a senseless act on May 6th, 2023. Their mom is currently still hospitalized. We want to thank everyone that has been reaching out and offering their support and assistance. Please pray for our now broken family, it read.

The girls have left a void that nothing in the world could ever fill. Please pray for their mom, my sister, and her broken heart. Please also pray for their dad, that despite all the trauma he has had to endure, is still unbelievably strong. They will be forever missed and loved.

Elio Cumana-Rivas

Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32, was the eighth victim identified by the Texas Department of Public Safety on Monday evening.

No further details about him have been released yet.
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Eight people have died and seven were injured when a gunman dressed in tactical gear and armed with an assault rifle opened fire at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas.

The suspect was shot dead by a police officer who was responding to an unrelated call, police said.

He has been identified by law enforcement sources as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia, according to NBC News.

Hundreds of shoppers fled from Allen Premium Outlets, a large outdoor shopping centre, after gunfire erupted at about 3.30pm local time on Saturday.

Seven people, including the gunman, were pronounced dead at the scene, and one more died after being taken to hospital, the Allen Police Department said.

Heres what we know so far about the shooting.

How the shooting unfolded

Dashcam video circulating on social media appeared to show the gunman getting out of a grey sedan just outside the malls entrance and immediately beginning to shoot at passersby in the carpark.

More than three dozen shots could be heard in the footage.

Witnesses told CNN that panicked shoppers screamed and hid behind cars as the suspect shot indiscriminately.

Inside the mall, families and employees rushed to take cover in storage areas and hallways, witnesses said.

According to Allen police, an officer attending an unrelated call at Allen Premium Outlets heard gunshots at 3.36pm on Saturday.

The officer engaged the suspect and neutralised the threat, police said in a statement on Facebook.

Hundreds of shoppers exiting the Allen Premium Outlets after a mass shooting on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Audio footage obtained by the Daily Mail captured the officer telling dispatch: I need everybody I got.

About two minutes after calling for backup, the officer told said he got him down.

The area was soon flooded with law enforcement officers and medics.

An image obtained by the media appeared to show the suspect lying on the ground after being shot.

He was dressed in black body armour, with additional magazines strapped to his chest, and an AR-15-style rifle was lying beside him.

Maxwell Gum, a 16-year-old pretzel stand worker, told the Associated Press that terrified shoppers stampeded as they sought safety. He said that he sheltered in a storage room.

Another witness Kingsley Ezeh told CNN he heard a woman behind him scream someones shooting, and saw a man holding a neck wound that was dripping with blood.

Mr Ezeh said he and others huddled at the back of a store for more than two hours as police cleared the scene.

Allen resident Steven Spainhouer said he rushed to the scene after his son, who was working at an H&M store in the outlet, called him.

Dashcam footage shows the gunman opening fire ( AP)

Mr Spainhouer said he saw several children among the deceased, and tried to perform CPR on several victims. At least three of the people he tried to save succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

I never imagined in 100 years I would be thrust into the position of being the first first responder on the site to take care of people, Mr Spainhouer told CBS News.

The first girl I walked up to was crouched down covering her head in the bushes, so I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side and she had no face.

Video footage showed hundreds of shoppers exiting the mall with their hands raised.

What we know about the victims

Seven people  including the suspect  were killed at the scene, Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said at a press conference on Saturday. Nine people were transported to hospital, where two more succumbed to their injuries.

Christian LaCour, a 20-year-old security guard at the mall, was identified by family members as one of the victims on Sunday.

LaCours grandmother posted a tribute to her grandson on social media.

He was such a beautiful soul, she wrote. I was so proud of him and so glad I got to see him 2 weeks ago.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, an engineer who moved to the US from India, was also killed in the attack.

Christian LaCour was killed in the shooting in Allen, Texas (Facebook)

Thatikonda was shopping with a friend at the mall when she was shot and killed by the gunman, a family representative told WFAA.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, 26, died in the Allen mall shooting

Her friend was also shot and injured in the shooting and is currently in stable condition in hospital.

Thatikondas family is planning to fly her body to India where she has family.

Aishwarya Thatikonda died in the Allen mall shooting (Family photo)

Kyu Song Cho, 37, Cindy Cho, 35, were out shopping with their two sons, William Cho, 6, and James Cho, 3 when the horrific mass shooting occurred, according to a GoFundMe set up for the family.

Kyu, Cindy and James all lost their lives during the shooting.

William is the only surviving member of the family.

Parents Cindy and Kyu Cho were killed along with their three-year-old son James in the Texas mall shooting (GoFundMe)

Elementary school sisters, Daniela Mendoza, 11, and Sofia Mendoza, 8, were also killed in the shooting.

Daniela, a fourth grader, and Sofia, a second grader, were out with their mother Ilda Mendoza when the shooting occurred.

Ilda remains in the hospital according to a GoFundMe page set up for the family.

Sisters Daniela, 11, and Sofia Mendoza, 8, were among those killed at the Allen mall massacre (GoFundMe)

A 32-year-old man named Elio Cumana-Rivas also died during the shooting.

Three survivors were undergoing surgery and remained in critical condition on Saturday night, while four others were in stable condition.

Medical City Healthcare spokesperson Janet St James, said their trauma facilities received eight patients between the age of 5 and 61 following the shooting.

What we know about the suspect

Mauricio Garcia, 33, was identified on Sunday as the gunman who killed seven innocent shoppers and a mall staff in Saturdays horror attack.

Garcia drove to the mall with several weapons and opened fire as soon as he stepped out of his vehicle. An AR-15 rifle and a handgun were reportedly found on him and in his car.

Police have not released a possible motive, but investigators are looking into Garcias possible neo-Nazi and white supremacist beliefs.

Garcia was wearing black body armour and a patch on his chest that suggested he may have harboured extremist ideologies, law enforcement sources told The Washington Post.

The patch read RWDS, which stands for Right Wing Death Squad, a popular phrase among far-right extremists.

Police sources told NBC News that Garcia had posted and engaged with neo-Nazi and white supremacist content online.

People gather at the shopping mall after the mass shooting (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

A social media profile on the Russian-based platform ok.ru that seems to have belonged to Garcia gives a glimpse into his thought process in the days before the attack.

Posts seen by The Independent show Garcia posted more than two dozen photos of the Texas mall and Google information that shows when the mall is at its busiest.

He also included photos showing SS and swastika tattoos, praise for Adolf Hitler, misogynistic screeds that echo incel (or involuntary celibate) ideas and forums, and complaints about the state of his mental health.

Garcia entered the US Army in June 2008 but was terminated three months into his initial training, Heather J Hagan, US Army Public Affairs Spokeswoman, said in a statement provided to The Independent.

Mauricio Garcia entered the regular Army in June 2008; he was terminated three months later without completing initial entry training. He was not awarded a military occupational specialty. He had no deployments or awards. We do not provide characterisation of discharge for any soldier, Ms Hagan said.

However, a US Army official indicated Garcia was terminated due to, Other designated physical or mental conditions.

After that, he became a security guard, most recently working for an aluminum supply company.

Through his work as a security guard, Garcia underwent firearms proficiency training as recently as 2018, according to the Texas Online Private Security database.

The online records show that he began training in 2015 before becoming a commissioned security officer in April 2016.

His licence expired in April 2020.

During that time, he is listed as working for three security companies: Ruiz Protective Service, Statewide Patrol and Verified Response Security & Investigations.

Police officer on the scene of the mall shooting

It is unclear why his security guard licence was suspended.

It is unclear if he had any connection to the mall where he carried out Saturdays rampage.

Private security guards are vetted and are barred from gaining a license if they have convictions for crimes such as assault or sexual offenses, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

According to CBS News reporter JD Miles, Garcia was a security guard with no serious criminal record.

At the time of the shooting, Garcia had reportedly been living in a motel.

A girl runs as other shoppers leave with their hands up after a mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas (via REUTERS)

FBI agents raided a Dallas home where Garcia had been living with his parents for years, according to Fox News.

Officers were stationed outside the address on Sunday. The suspects family requested a translator to speak with authorities.

The Texas Bureau of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the suspect. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Rangers have also been deployed to assist local law enforcement agencies with the investigation.

What lawmakers are saying

Allen Mayor Ken Fulk said in a statement that the quick thinking of law enforcement had prevented greater loss of life.

Their thorough training not to hesitate to move toward the threat likely saved more lives today.

He said the community would wrap our arms around the victims and families impacted by the tragedy.

Allen is a proud and safe city which makes todays senseless act of violence even more shocking, he said.

Law enforcement officers at a mall in Allen, Texas, where a gunman killed eight people on Saturday. (Associated Press)

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who recently signed laws easing gun restrictions, called the mall shooting an unspeakable tragedy.

His comments were met with anger from gun safety advocates, and state and national lawmakers.

Roland Gutierrez, a Texas state senator, told MSNBC there was a special place in hell for lawmakers who do nothing to stem the unprecedented wave of gun violence.

I dont care about their thoughts and I dont care about their prayers, Mr Gutierrez said.

Fred Guttenberg, whose daughter was murdered in the Parkland school shooting, called on Mr Abbott to tell Texans the truth about why mass shootings continue to occur.

You need to explain that your policies failed and that you lied. Your policies are to blame.

Survivors of the Allen mall mass shooting are escorted away from the scene by police officers. (via REUTERS)

President Joe Biden implored Congress to send him a bill banning assault weapons and high capacity magazines, and enacting universal background checks.

Republican Members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug, he said in a statement. Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough.

He ordered American flags at the White House, public buildings and on military bases to fly at half mast as a mark of respect to the victims.

Senator Ted Cruz said he was praying for the victims and the wider Collin County community.

Thank you to the incredible law enforcement who put a stop to the monster who committed this act of evil.

The shooting came one week after five family members were killed by a neighbour in Cleveland after asking him to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been nearly 200 mass shootings already in 2023.

FBI asks for video of shooting

The FBI is asking for anyone with video, audio or photographic evidence of Saturdays shooting to share it with them.

The bureau has set up a portal where evidence can be submitted anonymously.

The FBI told CNN it was present at two locations in Dallas, and is helping state and local police by devoting all available resources to include investigative, intelligence, digital forensics, and victim services personnel among others.

Texas dark weekend

The mall shooting marked the start of a dark weekend for Texas.

In Brownsville, eight people were killed when an SUV slammed into a crowd of people outside a migrant shelter in the border city on Sunday afternoon.

Horrifying footage, taken from a security camera and shared by Texas Rep Henry Cuellar, shows a group of people waiting for a bus outside the citys Ozanam Center. The SUV then rams into the victims.

Seven people died before an eighth victim succumbed to their injuries in hospital later that day. At least nine others were hospitalised.

Most of the victims were Venezuelan men who had spent the night at the shelter and were boarding a bus to return to downtown Brownsville.

Officials initially said that the incident appeared to be intentional and described the driver  whose identity remains unknown  as very uncooperative.

Police on the scene of the car crash in Brownsville

Also on Sunday, one person was killed and two others were injured in a shooting on a DART train in Dallas, Texas, on Sunday  just a 30-minute drive from the mall massacre.

Gunfire broke out on board a Green Line train near Hatcher Station when two people got into an argument on Sunday afternoon, accoding to authorities.

DART police said that officers were called to reports of a shooting on the northbound train at around 4.30pm.

Officers arrived on the scene to find two people  one of them a bystander  suffering from gunshot wounds.

They were both transported to local hospitals where one of the victims was pronounced dead. The condition of the second victim  the bystander  is unknown.

A third individual was also wounded in the shooting after being struck by shrapnel and was treated at the scene, police said.

Now, DART police are searching for the suspected shooter, whose identity is unknown.
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Two more children have been identified among the eight victims who were fatally shot in the Allen, Texas, mall shooting: sisters Daniela and Sofia Mendoza.

Daniela, a fourth grader, and Sofia, a second grader, were killed while at the Allen Premium Outlets with their mother, Ilda on Saturday, the Wylie Independent School District confirmed.

In a letter sent to parents and students obtained by NBC News, Superintendent David Vinson said: Words cannot express the sadness we feel as we grieve the loss of our students. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mendoza family, the families of the victims, and all those affected by this senseless tragedy.

"Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them," Mr Vinson added.

Both Daniela and Sofia attended Cox Elementary in Sachse, Texas. Cox Elementary School principal, Krista Wilson, called the girls rays of sunshine, according to the network.

Daniela and Sofias mother, Ilda, remains in critical condition according to reports.

The two young girls are among the three children currently identified as victims of the mass shooting. Three-year-old James Cho was also fatally shot.

The mass shooting occurred on Saturday when gunman Mauricio Garcia arrived at the Allen Premium Outlets armed with an AR-15-style rifle and ammunition. Garcia opened fire at people shopping at the outdoor mall, killing eight and injuring seven.

A law enforcement officer shot Garcia dead, bringing the horrific shooting to an end.

Four other victims have been identified as 20-year-old Christian LaCour, 27-year-old Aishwarya Thatikonda, and Cindy and Kyu Cho - the parents of three-year-old James Cho.

Mr and Ms Cho leave behind a six-year-old son who survived the shooting.

Six people who were injured remain under Medical City Healthcares care. Three people remain in critical condition, two patients are in fair condition and one patient is in good condition, according to CBS News.
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Witnesses have described the horrific scenes when a gunman opened fire at a Texas outlet mall killing eight and wounding another seven victims.

Survivors recalled the gunman, who was reportedly dressed in black body armour, getting out of a silver car and firing into a crowd of people at the Allen Premium Outlets in the city of Allen.

The AR-15-wielding gunman, who has not yet been named, was also shot and killed by police after the shocking incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon.

APTOPIX Mall Shooting Texas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Seven people died at the scene and two more were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, Allen Fire Department Chief Jonathan Boyd told reporters on Saturday night.

Shoppers detailed the chaotic scenes as people ran for their lives when the shooting started at around 3.36pm CT.

Abu Akther told FOX4 Dallas that he was with his wife and one-year-old child when he heard gunshots and grabbed a woman who said she had been shot and got her to safety in a store.

He described the situation as mayhem and panic as he tried to help the victim who had been shot in the side.

Mall Shooting Texas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Thats when she said, I dont know why I am shot. What is going on? And I saw blood pouring out of her stomach, said Mr Akther.

Allen resident Steven Spainhouer was not at the mall when the shooting unfolded but rushed to the scene after his son, who was working at an H&M store in the outlet, called him.

He described desperately trying to perform CPR on several victims and said he saw several children among the dead.

I never imagined in 100 years I would be thrust into the position of being the first first responder on the site to take care of people, Mr Spainhouer told CBS News.

The first girl I walked up to was crouched down covering her head in the bushes, so I felt for a pulse, pulled her head to the side and she had no face.

Armed law enforcement at shooting at Texas outlet mall (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Another man, who was not named, described the terrible sight at the scene of the shooting.

I had my headphones on and then I heard boom, boom, boom, loud shots, he said. Bodies, like under white covers.

We started running. Kids were getting trampled. My co-worker picked up a 4-year-old girl and gave her to her parents, pretzel stand worker Maxwell Gum told The Associated Press.

He described a virtual stampede of terrified shoppers and said that he sheltered in a storage room at the mall.

Kingsley Ezeh told CNN that she saw a male victim holding his neck, and that blood (was) just dripping down.

She added: I turned around and I saw two ladies rushing towards me, and then one was like, Someones shooting! Someones shooting.

Mall shooting in Allen, Texas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Witness Kimberly Blake told the outlet that the shooting happened over and over and over again. It was nonstop.

Elaine Penicaro told FOX4 Dallas that she had been outside the malls Converse store with her daughter when she heard all this popping.

We kind of all just stopped, and then a second later, just Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, and there were sparks flying like it was right in front of us, she said.

Sandra McKinley and her 13-year-old son, Ryan, huddled for safety inside the American Eagle store.

We heard what we thought were fireworks, and then people running, she recalled. I think a lot of us were hoping, like, this isnt really happening, you know?
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The mother of Brian Laundrie, the man who killed van-life influencer Gabby Petito before dying by suicide in a Florida swamp, allegedly told her son she'd bake him a cake with a shiv inside if he went to prison, according to the Petito family's attorney.

The Petitos sued the Laundries after Gabby was found dead in the Teton National Forest in 2021.

The lawsuit is demanding that the Laundries provide a "burn after reading" letter that Brians mother, Roberta Laundrie, allegedly wrote him prior to his disappearance, according to WFLA.

The letter in question, written by Roberta Laundrie to Brian Laundrie references bringing a shovel to help bury a body, and baking a cake with a shiv in it should Brian Laundrie go to prison," the Petito family's attorney, Pat Reilly, wrote. "A reasonable inference is that the letter was written at a time when Gabrielle Petito was as yet unburied, and Brian Laundrie could go to jail for the crime of murder.

Mr Reilly said he has seen the letter, and that it was initially collected by the FBI during their preliminary investigation into Gabbys disappearance. He said the FBI returned the letter to the Laundries, and noted it had the words "burn after reading" written on the envelope.

Ms Laundrie has not refuted the existence of the letter, but notes it is undated and has said the letter was written before Gabby was murdered.

The purpose of the letter was to reach out to Brian while he and I were experiencing a difficult period in our relationship, Ms Laundrie wrote in a court motion to protect the letter from release. Brian and I always had a very open and communicative relationship and in the months prior to the trip our relationship had become strained. Brian and I shared a love of stories and some of the language in the letter was using similar phrases to describe the depth of a mothers love.

While I used words that seem to have a connection with Brians actions and his taking of Gabbys life, I never would have fathomed the events that unfolded months later between Brian and Gabby would reflect the words in my letter," she wrote. "The words in the letter could never have been a comment on that tragic situation as they were written so many months before. My words to Brian were meant to convey my love and support for my son through a light-hearted and quirky reminder that my love for him was not diminished and could not be shaken by the miles of separation we would soon be faced with.

Mr Reilly has rejected her timeline and has asked the court not to take the mother at her word.

In the summer of 2021, Brian and Gabby were dating and took a road trip in a converted van from their home in Florida to the western US. Gabby was living with Brian and his family at the time.

Brian returned home without Gabby. Her family became concerned when she did not return with Brian and even more concerned when the Laundries stopped speaking to them or answering any questions about their daughter.

Furious spectators from around the nation camped out on the streets and sidewalks surrounding the Laundrie home, some with megaphones demanding they assist the police in the search for Gabby, and later in the search for their son.

Shortly before Gabbys remains were found, Brian slipped past the police and disappeared, kicking off a nationwide manhunt that included Dog the Bounty Hunter. In reality, brian had wandered into a nearby wilderness park where he died by suicide. Police could not initially locate his body when they searched there due to obfuscation from heavy rains. When they did finally locate Brian, they found only skeletal remains intact.

Forensic investigators found a water damaged notebook among Brians remains, and managed to recover an admission that he killed Gabby during their roadtrip.
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Eight people were killed and 10 others injured after a driver in Brownsville, Texas, plowed his SUV into a group pedestrians waiting for a bus.

Many of the individuals hit by the SUV were migrants who had just left a nearby migrant centre, according to Brownsville police.

The crash comes at a time when Texans are still recovering from another shocking tragedy involving public violence  a mass shooting at an outlet mall in Allen  and just weeks after Brownsville issued a state of emergency due to an influx of Venezuelan migrants to the region.

Here's everything we know about the crash:

The Crash

Around 8:29am, police began receiving emergency calls describing a violent car accident in which numerous people were hit by a grey Range Rover.

The crash occurred near the Ozanam Centre, a migrant resource facility.

Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda said the SUV ran a red light, lost control, and flipped onto its side. Video footage of the incident appears to show the vehicle hitting the victims before it flips onto its side.

The Victims

When police arrived on the scene of the accident, they found six people were already dead, and 12 were seriously injured in the crash.

The death toll later grew to eight when two of the victims succumbed to their injuries.

All eight of the victims were men, according to the Brownsville police. Many were seated on the curb when the car struck them.

Many of the victims were migrants waiting for a bus to take them from the migrant centre back to downtown Brownsville, police reported.

The city of Brownsville has recently seen a major spike in migrants seeking help in the region. Many of the migrants are from Venezuela. The spike forced the city to declare a state of emergency while they respond to the new arrivals.

Mr Sauceda said local authorities were working with the Venezuela government to identify the victims and notify their next of kin.

The Driver

Brownsville police identified the driver as George Alvarez, 34.

Mr Alvarez allegedly attempted to flee the scene after the crash, but was detained by bystanders until police arrived. He was then placed under arrest and transported to a hospital for treatment.

He has since been charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Mr Sauceda said police are still waiting on toxicology reports to determine whether or not he was impaired at the time of the crash.

Police noted that Mr Alvarez has a long criminal history, including numerous assault charges, one aggravated assault charge, and burglary, theft, and DUI charges.

Police said Mr Alvarez was allegedly being "very uncooperative" with the investigation.

On 10 May, police announced that blood screens from the hospital where Mr Alvarez was being treated showed he had drugs in his system at the time of the crash. Cocaine, benzodiazepines and marijuana were all detected, though his level of intoxication is currently unclear.

The Motive

Mr Sauceda said the vehicle "lost control" before it hit the victims, but noted that law enforcement had not ruled out the possibility that the incident was deliberate.

The FBI has joined the investigation and is currently investigating whether or not the crash was intentional. They have not reached any conclusions in that line of inquiry.

The director of the migrant shelter, Victor Maldonado, said people have reportedly approached the centre's security guards and told them the crash happened because of their facility, according to CBS 4.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, he said.

The shelter has been at or over capacity  250  in recent weeks while trying to assist an influx of migrants arriving in the region. He noted that many of the migrants do not want to stay in Brownsville, but said they are stuck in the area due to a lack of transportation options available through the shelter.
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Attorneys for E Jean Carroll described Donald Trump as a witness against himself in closing arguments at the civil rape trial against the former president, whose defence was slammed as harebrained by a lawyer representing the 79-year-old writer.

Lawyer Roberta Kaplan began her closing on Monday in Manhattan court by calling Ms Carrolls testimony credible, consistent, and powerful,

You saw for yourself. E Jean Carroll wasnt hiding anything, Ms Kaplan told the jury.

Ms Carroll sued Mr Trump in 2019 and 2022, claiming that he raped her in a fitting room at the Berghof Goodman department store in Manhattan in the mid-1990s. She argues that he later defamed her in his aggressive rejections of her claims. Mr Trump has denied all wrongdoing.

While Mr Trump himself declined to testify at the trial - or to attend at all - Ms Kaplan seized on his October video deposition in the case to crush his credibility.

She pointed to the moment Mr Trump mixed up Ms Carroll and his then-wife Marla Maples in a photo, saying he pointed to Ms Carroll, the woman he supposedly said was not his type.

He only corrected himself when his own lawyer corrected him, she added.

Mr Trump did [what] he always does when caught doing something wrong, Ms Kaplan said.

He made up an excuse, claiming that it was blurry, the lawyer added.

Referencing the infamous Access Hollywood tape that emerged just before the 2016 election, Ms Kaplan said, He grabbed her, using his words, by the p****.

He didnt even bother to show up in person, Ms Kaplan said about Mr Trump choosing not to attend the trial.

In a very real sense, Trump is a witness against himself, the attorney said about Mr Trumps video deposition.

She said Mr Trump knows what he did. He knows he sexually assaulted E Jean Carroll.

Ms Kaplan laid out a timeline of the alleged attack during her closing argument, saying that it happened while Ms Carroll was hosting Ask E Jean on Americas Talking between 1994 and 1996.

Americas Talking was run by Roger Ailes, who later served as the CEO and chairman of Fox News before he was ousted following a series of sexual misconduct allegations against him.

Ms Kaplan noted that at the time of the alleged rape by Mr Trump, Ms Carroll was wearing a wool dress with tights, but she wasnt wearing a coat, indicating what kind of weather there was on that day, according to Law & Crime.

Ms Carroll said that it must have taken place after her friend Lisa Birnbach had published her story on Mar-a-Lago, published in February of 1996.

The writer said she thinks it happened on a Thursday as the department store was open late.

She was trying to come to grips with the fact that she was being attacked, Ms Kaplan said during her closing argument on Monday.

The lawyer noted that her client remembers the attack in great detail.

Ms Kaplan spoke to the jury about why they showed Mr Ailess interview with Mr Trump from the 1990s.

She said that Mr Ailess talk show on the shortlived cable news network Americas Talking was recorded in the same building, and broadcast on the same network, as Ms Carrolls programme on the channel  Ask E Jean.

Ms Kaplan noted that Mr Trump would have seen the end of Ms Carrolls programme if he watched his appearance on Mr Ailess show unless he changed the channel at the exact right moment.

The attorney for Ms Carroll noted that a former executive at the Berghof Goodman said that there werent many people in the lingerie department on Thursday nights, particularly in the early spring.

Regarding Ms Carroll telling Mr Trump to try on the lingerie, Ms Kaplan said, I think we understand what was happening. This was a combination of humour and flirting, according to Law & Crime.

It was a joke. Ms Carroll could see the joke in her minds eye, Ms Kaplan added. The point was that it was funny.

Speaking about what Mr Trump is alleged to have done to the writer, Ms Kaplan said, He grabbed her by the p****, or vagina  Im sorry for my language.

Ms Kaplan added that Mr Trump verbally attacked Ms Carroll during his time in the White House after she went public with her allegation following the eruption of the MeToo movement.

The lawyer said her client started sleeping with a loaded gun in her bed as she was worried about the repercussions of going public, according to Law & Crime.

Ms Kaplan quoted psychological expert Dr Leslie Lebowitz, who was hired by the Carroll legal team to testify at the trial.

People have really strange, really unexpected reactions to traumatic situations all the time, she said.

Trump lawyer Joe Tacopina repeatedly questioned Ms Carroll about her not screaming during the alleged assault.

Ms Kaplan said that screaming is one of the least likely things to actually occur.

The lawyer said her client remembers the assault in vivid, technicolour detail.

She remembers the sound of Trumps heavy breathing as he was facing the wall next to her neck, she said. She remembers certain things vividly, and other things, not so much.

The psychological expert in this case believes Ms Carroll, she added.

Speaking about her view of Mr Trumps defence in the case, Ms Kaplan said, If a woman is going to accuse a man of sexual assault, she must play the part.

Thats just plain wrong, she added.

Ms Kaplan called out what she said was Mr Trumps Big Lie in his defence  his argument that Ms Carroll, witnesses Lisa Birnbach, and Carol Martin are all not telling the truth.

Im sorry. Seriously? Thats just ridiculous, Ms Kaplan said.

Mr Trumps lies about the 2020 election being stolen are also often referred to as the Big Lie.

Ms Kaplan said that for Mr Trump to win this case, the jury will have to find that Ms Carroll, Ms Birnbach, and Ms Martin all lied under oath.

Does that make any sense at all, or does that suggest that there is one person here whos lying  and that that person is Donald Trump? the attorney asked.

Ms Kaplan showed a chart of the allegations by Ms Carroll, Natasha Stoynoff, and Jessica Leeds, which showed that they all took place in a semi-public place, that Mr Trump grabbed them suddenly, and that he later said they were not my type.

The attorney also noted that none of the women screamed, according to Law & Crime.

Ms Kaplan told the jury that for Mr Trump to win, You have to conclude that Donald Trump, the nonstop liar, is the only person in here telling the truth.

Ms Kaplan said the Carroll legal team wouldnt be requesting a specific damage award.

For E Jean Carroll, this lawsuit is not about the money, the attorney said, adding that its about getting her name back.

Carroll lawyer Michael Ferrara began his rebuttal of Mr Tacopinas closing argument by telling the jury that Mr Tacopina is a very good lawyer.

But he said that Mr Tacopina offered arguments instead of evidence, before slamming his comments on respecting the legal system when his own client didnt have enough respect to attend the trial.

He never looked you in the eye and denied raping E Jean Carroll, Mr Ferrara said about Mr Trump.

Mr Ferrara said that Ms Birnbach and Ms Martin wouldnt gamble their professional credibility on a harebrained scheme to take down Mr Trump, according to Law & Crime.

He also scoffed at the idea that the trio modelled their secret, secret scheme on one of the most popular shows on television, referring to Law & Order SVU.
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Police in Brownsville, Texas, have identified the driver who crashed his SUV into a group of people waiting for a bus outside a migrant centre, killing eight and seriously injuring 10 others.

Since the wreck, police and the FBI have been investigating the cause of the crash, including whether or not the incident was intentional.

Follow all the latest updates here

The government of Venezuela, noting that several of the victims were migrants from the country  has called for a thorough investigation into the driver's motives.

Here's everything we know about the Brownsville driver:

George Alvarez

On Monday, Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda held a press conference during which he revealed the driver had been identified as George Alvarez, 34.

Mr Alvarez allegedly attempted to flee the scene of the incident after he struck the victims and rolled his jeep.

Bystanders reportedly stopped Mr Alvarez and kept him detained until police arrived. He was then taken into police custody and then to an area hospital to be treated for injuries he sustained in the wreck.

Police said Mr Alvarez was being "very uncooperative" with them during their initial investigation.

The driver has since been charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

George Alvarez is seen in his mugshot after deadly crash outside migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas (Brownsville Police Department )

Criminal history

Also during the press conference, the police chief noted on Monday that Mr Alvarez has a lengthy criminal history.

His past charges include numerous assault charges, an aggravated assault charge, and additional charges for burglary, theft, DUI, and resisting arrest. He is currently being held on a $3.6m bond, according to CNN.

Crash

Around 8:29am, police began receiving emergency calls describing a violent car accident in which numerous people were hit by a gray Range Rover.

The crash occurred near the Ozanam Centre, a migrant resource facility.

Mr Sauceda said during the press conference on Monday that the SUV ran a red light, lost control, and flipped onto its side. Video footage of the incident appears to show the vehicle hitting the victims before it flips onto its side.

Motive

Mr Sauceda said the vehicle "lost control" before it hit the victims, but noted that law enforcement had not ruled out the possibility that the incident was deliberate.

Police said they were invesitgating claims that the driver was hurling invectives at the migrants prior to the crash, according to the New York Times.

The FBI has joined the investigation and is currently investigating whether or not the crash was intentional. They have not reached any conclusions in that line of inquiry.

On 10 May, police announced that blood screens from the hospital where Mr Alvarez was being treated showed he had drugs in his system at the time of the crash. Cocaine, benzodiazepines and marijuana were all detected, though his level of intoxication is currently unclear.

The director of the migrant shelter, Victor Maldonado, told CBS affiliate KMOV4 that people have reportedly approached the centre's security guards and told them the crash happened because of their facility.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, he said.

The shelter has been at or over capacity  250  in recent weeks while trying to assist an influx of migrants arriving in the region. Mr Maldonado noted that many of the migrants do not want to stay in Brownsville, but said they are stuck in the area due to a lack of transportation options available through the shelter.
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Brownsvillepolice have identified the driver in a fatal car crash that left eight people dead outside a migrant centre in Texas.

Chief Felix Sauceda identified the driver as George Alvarez, 34.

Mr Sauceda said Mr Alvarez lost control of his SUV while running a red light. The SUV then rolled onto its side and slammed into a group of people outside a migrant centre. Police found six people dead when they arrived and another 12 that were in need of critical care. The death toll later rose to eight.

Mr Alvarez allegedly tried to flee the scene of the accident, but was held down by bystanders, according to the chief.

Reporters asked Mr Sauceda if police had ruled out the collision being an intentional act on the part of Mr Alvarez. Mr Sauceda said that police were still in the midst of an investigation and had not ruled anything out at the time of the press conference.

Earlier reports suggested Mr Alvarez was allegedly "very uncooperative" with the investigation.

Weeks before the attack, thousands of migrants  many from Venezuela  arrived in the city, prompting a state of emergency.

No threats of violence were made to the migrant centre where the crash occurred, according to Sister Norma Pimentel, the executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley.
Details of their meeting with the Ife monarch were sketchy at the time of filing this report but photographs showed the monarch placing his hands on the head of Mr Akpabio as a way of giving royal blessings.

Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, has paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

Mr Akpabio was accompanied by the senator representing Kano North, Barau Jibirin, and Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi .

Mr Akpabio is one of the leading aspirants for the senate president in the 10th National Assembly. Mr Jibirin has reportedly settled for Deputy Senate President.

Other Senators-elect who are still in the race are Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia), Osita Izunaso (Imo) Sani Musa (Niger) and Patrick Ndubueze (Imo).

Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, had recently announced that governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have endorsed Mr Akpabio as the president of the Senate and Mr Jibril, his deputy.

Mr Umahi, a senator-elect and one of the contenders for the position, had also stepped down and endorsed Mr Akpabio.

Details of their meeting with the Ife monarch were sketchy at the time of filing this report but photographs showed the monarch placing his hands on the head of Mr Akpabio as a way of giving royal blessings.

When asked for confirmation, one of the press officers of the Ooni of Ife, Adetoyese Yusuf, said he was not aware of the meeting.

When our reporter sent the pictures to his WhatsApp for confirmation, Mr Yusuf claimed that the pictures were not taken in the palace.

The media aide to the Ooni of Ife, Moses Olafare, did not respond to calls and messages sent to his phone.

The National Assembly will be inaugurated in June.
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Police in Texas have confirmed the identity of a woman through DNA testing who was reunited with her family more than 50 years she was abducted by a babysitter.

Melissa Highsmith vanished from her Fort Worth home in 1971 at the age of 21 months, in what would become the longest-running missing person case in the United States.

In late 2022, Ms Highsmiths family tracked her down after hiring an amateur genealogist and through the public DNA site 23andMe.

She had been living in the Fort Worth area under the name Melanie Brown unaware of her true identity.

Ms Highsmith was then reunited with her parents and two surviving siblings days before Thanksgiving last year.

On Thursday, the Fort Worth Police Station said in a statement they had completed DNA testing that confirmed Ms Highsmiths identity.

It is our hope that this test result will offer additional closure for the Highsmith family, police said in a release.

Although the criminal statute of limitations expired 20 years after Melissas 18th birthday, the Fort Worth Police Department Major Case Unit continues to ask for the publics assistance with any additional information concerning Melissas abduction that occurred over 51 years ago, they added.

Melissa Highsmith was kidnapped in 1971 as a toddler by a babysitter and later sold to a family for $500. (Fort Worth Star-Telegram/Screengrab)

Victoria Highsmith, Melissas sister, criticised the police departments efforts to locate her sister in a post on the public We Found Melissa Facebook page on Friday.

Shaking my head shame on you Fort Worth police for not solving my sisters crime, Victoria Highsmith wrote.

She said that the police had ignored several leads and the family had done their job for them.

A rally was held in the Texas city last Saturday to demand more resources for the police departments cold case unit, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.

The unit has more than 1,000 unsolved cold cases, and only one officer assigned to investigate them, the news site said.

Last November, Melissa Highsmiths mother Alta Apantenco told WFAA she was elated to have found her daughter.

Ms Apantenco told how she needed a babysitter to look after her daughter and hired a woman named Ruth Johnson over the phone to collect the youngster at the familys home.

She had left her infant daughter with a roommate to hand over to the babysitter, who was later described as being well-dressed and wearing white gloves.

The babysitter never returned, sparking a 50 year search by the family that only ended after the 23andMe DNA analysis reunited.

Melissa Highsmith told WFAA last year that she had grown up in an abusive home and runaway as a teenager.

The woman who raised her reportedly later confessed that she bought her for $500 on the street in 1972, the news site reported.
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A heroic store worker died in the mass shooting at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, after she risked her own life to hide customers in a bathroom closet, according to a woman who survived the horror attack.

Racquel Lee told CBS News that she had decided to go on an impromptu shopping trip to the Allen Premium Outlets on Saturday afternoon.

She pulled up outside the H&M store and was shopping inside when the gunman pulled up outside the very same store at around 3.30pm local time and began opening fire indiscriminately on anyone in sight.

Ms Lee broke down in tears as she recalled the panic as she and her fellow shoppers heard the gunshots ringing out and realised what was happening.

It sounded like a war zone, she said. It was horrifying and it felt like you were in a dream. Like, just shock.

As the shooting unfolded, an unidentified store associate sprung into action, ushering her and 12 others into the store bathroom.

There, the female employee  who has not been identified  hid the shoppers inside the storage closet and then left the room again.

Ms Lee said that the group hunkered down in the closet trying to stay silent for fear that the gunman would find them.

They desperately tried to call 911 but had no signal in the closet, she said.

We were in a bathroom closet, and we were just in the closet trying not be heard, crying, praying  people were trying to call 911. We couldnt dial out, she sobbed.

I remember thinking that hes coming in here next, oh god, and I was hoping we didnt get hit by a bullet.

She added: And then the store associate saved our lives.

Footage from inside the closet as shoppers hid from the Texas mall gunman (CBS News)

Harrowing footage, shared by Ms Lee with CBS News, shows the terrified group of shoppers hiding inside the closet.

Sometime later  after the gunman was shot dead by a law enforcement officer  police found the terrified shoppers hiding in the closet and led them out of the store.

As she walked out to safety, Ms Lee said she walked past the lifeless body of the heroic store worker who had saved all of their lives.

Breaking down in tears, she said the woman had sacrificed her life for all of theirs.

In total, eight people were killed in Saturdays horror attack when gunman Mauricio Garcia, 33, drove to the mall and opened fire on innocent shoppers with an AR-15-style rifle  before he was shot dead by a law enforcement officer who was already on the scene for an unrelated incident.

Two of the victims have now been identified as a mall security guard and an engineer who was on a shopping trip with a friend.

Christian LaCour, 20, was working at the mall as a security guard when he was killled.

He was identified by family members on Sunday, with his grandmother posting a tribute to the beautiful soul.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, an engineer who moved to the US from India, was also identified by family members as one of the victims.

Law enforcement officer on the scene of the mall shooting (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Thatikonda was shopping with a friend at the mall when she was shot and killed by the gunman, a family representative told WFAA.

Her friend was also shot and injured in the shooting and is currently in stable condition in hospital.

The other six victims are yet to be identified but witnesses have said they saw young children among the dead.

The motive for the horror attack remains unknown but investigators are said to be probing Garcias possible neo-Nazi and white supremacist ideologies.

At the time of the shooting, the gunman  an Army veteran who worked as a security guard  was reportedly wearing a patch reading RWDS  standing for Right Wing Death Squad.

Police sources told NBC News that Garcia had posted neo-Nazi and white supremacist content online.
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The state of Texas  from the border with Mexico to the swanky suburbs north of Dallas  spent Monday reeling from unimaginable horror.

Traumatised shoppers were gathering in Allen to reclaim vehicles at the outlet mall where an active shooter on Saturday killed eight and injured seven. Officers in Brownsville were preparing to update the public after a driver plowed into a group of migrants waiting at a bus stop, again killing eight and injuring at least 10 on Sunday morning. And police in Dallas were holding a gunman who opened fire on a city light rail line on Sunday afternoon, killing one and injuring two.

Meanwhile on Monday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott was tweeting about the border.

Up bright and early to provide a border security update ahead of the end of Title 42, the Republican leader wrote, urging his followers to join him for a live update from the state capital of Austin.

Border security update? retorted Twitter user Faustina Marie, @theroyalruffian. How do you plan to prevent Texans from being slaughtered by other Texans?

Here, The Independent recaps a horror weekend of violence that left 18 dead and many more injured.

Allen Outlet Mall Shooting

Reports of the first mass tragedy of the weekend began on Saturday afternoon, as panicked social media posts and pictures emerged showing an active shooter at Allen Premium Outlets, about a half-hour north of Dallas. Around 3.30pm, an officer responding to a nearby call heard gunfire at the outdoor mall, responded, identified and killed the shooter, law enforcement said  but the gunman had already fatally wounded eight people and injured nine others.

Among the dead were security guard Christian LaCour, 20; engineer Aishwarya Thatikonda, whose 28th birthday was just days away; sisters Daniela and Sofia Mendoza, in fourth and second grade, respectively; and parents Cindy and Kyu Cho, along with their three-year-old, James.

As of Sunday morning, Allen authorities said three injured remained in critical condition in area hospitals and three were in fair, including one patient being treated at a childrens hospital.

Covered bodies are shown at the Allen Premium Outlets, about a half-hour north of Dallas, where a shooter killed eight on Saturday (via REUTERS)

Police on Sunday confirmed the identity of the suspect as Mauricio Garcia, 33, of Dallas. A law enforcement official told AP that multiple weapons had been found at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun. Investigators searched a Dallas motel near an interstate where Garcia had been staying, as well as a home connected to the suspect, the official said.

Federal agents reviewed social media accounts believed to have been used by the suspect expressing interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views; Garcia had a patch on his chest bearing the acronym for a popular right-wing extremist phrase, the official told AP.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when he was killed by police that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

The front entrance is shown of a home connected to Allen shooting suspect Mauricio Garcia, 33, of Dallas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Dallas-area churches on Sunday night were holding services for victims as news of the tragedy spread. Within hours of its creation on Monday, a GoFundMe for the young Cho family had raised $380,000 more than its $50,000 goal.

The page says that the parent and three-year-old had visited the mall on Saturday along with older son, William, to celebrate his sixth birthday four days earlier.

An afternoon that should have been filled with light, love and celebration unfortunately was cut short by another mass shooting massacre that left 8 victims dead, the GoFundMe continued. Cindy, Kyu and three year old James were among those victims that tragically lost their lives and the family is in deep mourning. After being released from the ICU, their six year old son William is the only surviving member of this horrific event.

Another mother and her children were also caught up in the atrocity, Wylie Independent School District officials said in a letter to families, according to reporting by ABC affiliate WFAA.

The Mendoza sisters, who attended Cox Elementary in Sachse, Texas, were killed while shopping at the outlets with their mother, Ilda, who was critically wounded, Superintendent David Vinson wrote.

Daniela and Sofia will not be forgotten, he continued. Hug your kids, and tell them you love them.

The father of one Premium Outlets employee who rushed to the scene on Saturday described the horrifying site and called for change within his gun-loving state.

A veteran and former cop, Steven Spainhouer told MSNBC: Im a gun lover; I have guns. But these M4s, AR-15s, theyve got to get off the streets or this is going to keep happening, and weve got to stop that at some point. Prayers an condolences wont bring these people back. We need some action in our legislatures at the federal and state level for better gun control, and Im saying that as someone who loves guns.

President Joe Biden echoed those calls for action, also ordering flags lowered to half-staff.

Yesterday, an assailant in tactical gear armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon gunned down innocent people in a shopping mall, andnot for the first time, he tweeted Sunday. Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. We need more action, faster to save lives.

Brownsville Bus Stop Attack

Early Sunday morning, as Texans readied for church services praying for the souls of the mall victims, another tragedy struck the state  570 miles south of the crime scene.

Footage captures the fatal crash at a migrant shelter in Brownsville (Rep Henry Cuellars office)

A grey SUV driven by a local 34-year-old crashed into a group waiting at a Brownsville bus stop just before 8.30am, killing eight and injuring ten more, police said. During a press conference on Monday, Chief Felix Sauceda said George Alvarez  who had an extensive rap sheet  had run a red light, flipped the vehicle and smashed into 18 people before attempting to flee the scene.

The bus stop was near a non-profit Ozanam facility that helps to house migrants  whose ranks have been swelling quickly in the run-up to immigration law changes taking effect on Thursday.

At least some of the victims were Venezuela natives, Chief Sauceda said, calling the Sunday event in the border city a very tragic scene. He said Alvarez had been charged with eight counts of manslaughter and ten counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The chief also noted that investigators were still working to determine a motive and whether or not the deaths were intentional as well as awaiting the results of toxicology tests.

One Venezuelan migrant, who gave his name as Jesus, told local station KVEO that hed been near the bus stop on Sunday at the time of the tragedy. He said hed been at the Ozanam center for three days after traveling from his native country and his family had bought him a plane ticket to Utah.

George Alvarez is seen in his mugshot after deadly crash outside migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas (Brownsville Police Department )

We were waiting there, and the truck sped through the traffic light, and by the grace of God nothing happened to us, but they did hit the others around us, he told the station.

Brownsville police said on Monday that they had also not ruled out additional charges against Alvarez. The FBI was assisting in the investigation.

I cannot describe the heartache I feel at hearing the news from this morning, not just as an advocate for the rights of migrants, but as a resident of Brownsville, Rochelle Garza, president of the Texas Civil Rights Project, tweeted on Sunday. My heart goes out to those who were impacted by this tragedy.

Dallas DART Shooting

Eight hours after the Brownsville bus stop carnage, gunfire broke out in Dallas on a city light rail line, leaving one dead, two injured and a suspect temporarily on the run.

A disagreement between two people broke out aboard a northbound Green Line train around 4.30pm near the Hatcher station within the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, spokesman Gordon Shattles told The Independent. A shooter subsequently fatally wounded one person and injured a bystander before taking off, police said.

A third victim was believed to have been struck by shrapnel and was treated at the scene, police told CNN. The shooting disrupted Green Line service for hours as passengers were routed via bus shuttle between various stations amidst police investigations.

A shooting broke out on Sunday afternoon near the Hatcher Station of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit system, leaving one dead and two injured (Alamy)

Mr Shattles said Monday that DART police had apprehended the suspect and recovered the weapon used in the incident.

The individual has officially been charged with one count of murder and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, he told The Independent.

The Dallas-area incidents occurred at an especially difficult time for the Dallas Police Department  a separate entity from DART Police  which was hit by a ransomware attack just days before the outlet mall shooting. The FBI said on Friday that it was coordinating with the city, after the ransomware disrupted public services and websites, according to Reuters.

The computer disruption hindered efforts to quickly find information about the Allen suspect, who was believed to be from Dallas, police told local outlets following the mall shooting. The Dallas CIO was scheduled to brief the public safety committee on Monday on the status of the ransomware attack, WFAA reported.

North Texas and federal authorities, meanwhile, continued to piece together details from the Saturday outlet shooting as Gov Abbott continued to tweet about the border later on Monday. Aside from one weekend tweet about the Allen tragedy  highlighting his attendance at a vigil  the Republican avoided most mention of the weekend carnage on his social media.

Were deploying the new Texas Tactical Border Force to border hotspots to repel illegal crossings, he tweeted Monday, adding: In Bidens absence, Texas continues taking unprecedented action to respond to this crisis.

Some of his constituents urged him to look more closely and quickly at other crises, particularly after the Lone Stars horrific weekend of violence.

We knew we could count on you to commence with xenophobic gaslighting in an attempt to take the focus off all the carnage across Texas this weekend, wrote @CariMarshallTX. Guess what - its not working.
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A gunman who murdered eight people in a mass shooting at a Texas outlet mall wore a Right Wing Death Squad patch on his chest and may have held white supremacist beliefs, says a report.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, jumped out of a silver car and opened fire on a crowd of shoppers with an AR-15 rifle on Saturday afternoon at the Allen Premium Outlets in the city of Allen.

Now investigators are looking at the shooters possible far-right political beliefs as a motive for the shooting, people familiar with the investigation told The Washington Post.

Follow our live blog for latest updates

No official motivation for the killings has been given by police, but sources told the newspaper that Garcia had an RWDS patch on his chest, which stands for Right Wing Death Squad. The phrase is popular with neo-Nazis, white supremacists and right-wing extremists, the newspaper reported.

Garcia, who was wearing black body armour during his attack, was also shot and killed by police after the shocking incident unfolded.

Seven people died at the scene and two more were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, Allen Fire Department chief Jonathan Boyd told reporters on Saturday night.

People raise their hands as they leave a shopping center following reports of a shooting, Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas. (AP)

Garcia, who was from the Allen area, was armed with multiple weapons as he went on his killing spree, and had an additional five firearms in his car, the source told the Post.

Witnesses also told investigators that the gunmans tactical vest was crammed with ammunition clips.

The violence broke out at around 3.36pm CDT and a police officer who was already at the mall responding to another situation heard gunshots and engaged the suspect and neutralized the threat, Allen police chief Brian Harvey told reporters.

According to CBS News reporter JD Miles, Garcia was a security guard with no serious criminal record.

He had been living in a motel at the time the shooting, Mr Miles said.

FBI agents raided a Dallas home where Garcia had been living with his parents for years, according to Fox News.

Officers were stationed outside the address on Sunday. The suspects family reportedly requested a translator to speak with authorities.
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The prime minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines said having King Charles III as head of state is an absurdity.

Ralph Gonsalves said he wanted to see the Caribbean country severed from the British monarchy within his lifetime, adding he would welcome an apology from the UK state for past injustices relating to slavery.

Its something that Im hoping to see consummated, the severing of the umbilical cord between our country and the British monarch, he told BBC Radio 4s the World At One programme.

King Charles with Ralph Gonsalves and wife Eloise at Balmoral last October (Getty)

King Charles knows that, he and I have discussed that in very amicable ways, but Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will remain in the Commonwealth, he continued. The King is understanding of the impulses of former colonial peoples to cut the links.

Mr Gonsalves said he believes the King is open to discussing reparations.

The Saint Vincent prime minister was the second Caribbean leader to call for an end to links with the British monarchy since the coronation of Charles on Saturday.

Terrance Drew, prime minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis said his country was not not totally free with the King as head of state.

Terrance Drew, back row, far left, and Gonsalves, second row, far right, pose with King Charles and other Commonwealth leaders in London on eve of coronation (POOL/AFP/Getty)

He told the BBC a public consultation on whether the Commonwealth realm nation should become a republic will start during his leadership.

Dr Drew, of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Labour Party, who won a snap election in August, has also called on the monarchy to apologise for its historic links to the slave trade, the BBC reported.

Buckingham Palace said Charles takes slavery profoundly seriously. The King is head of state in eight Caribbean countries.

Dr Drew and Mr Gonsalves were among world leaders who posed in a group photograph with Charles after attending a Commonwealth reception at Marlborough House in London on Friday, ahead of the coronation at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.
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Mexicos president said Monday he will talk with U.S. President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programs to help stem the flow of migrants to the U.S. border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the U.S. border.

Don't allow yourselves to be fooled, Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. Don't allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk."

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the U.S. government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people wont have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by U.S. Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

This really degrades them, morally, he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied.
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Donald Trump has missed the deadline to testify in the civil rape trial brought against him by writer E Jean Carroll.

The Sunday 5pm ET deadline passed without Mr Trumps lawyers filing a motion to inform the court of any change in plans  despite the former president saying last week that he was cutting his trip to Scotland and Ireland short to head back to New York and confront Ms Carroll.

US District Judge Lewis Kaplan had warned Mr Trump that once the deadline passed, he would no longer have the opportunity to testify in the case.

That ship will be irrevocably sailed, he said.

Ms Carroll, a former Elle advice columnist, claimed that he raped her in a dressing room in Manhattans Bergdorf Goodman department store in 1995 or 1996  a claim Mr Trump strongly denies.

Now, the defamation and battery trial is set to enter its final stages as closing arguments begin on Monday.

Judge Kaplan issued the Sunday 5pm deadline on Thursday giving Mr Trump an extension to appear and testify in court.

This came after Mr Trump told reporters in Ireland that he would probably shorten his trip and return to the US to attend the trial.

Im going to go back, and Im going to confront this, Mr Trump said, adding that this woman is a disgrace and it shouldnt be allowed to happen in our country, according to The Daily Beast.

He also attacked Ms Carroll, calling her fake and saying that Judge Kaplan was extremely hostile.

I have to leave early. I dont have to but I choose to, Mr Trump said, according to the New York Daily News. I was falsely accused by this woman. I have no idea who she is. Its ridiculous.

He doesnt like me very much, Mr Trump added of Judge Kaplan. Its a disgrace but we have to do it. Its a part of life.

Judge Kaplan mentioned Mr Trumps comments in Ireland when saying that the jury needed the opportunity to hear from him personally.

Trump in his deposition for the civil rape trial (AP)

In the interests of justice, the judge said he would allow the case to be reopened for a short period of time to give Mr Trump an opportunity to testify.

If he has second thoughts, Ill at least consider it, the judge said as he announced the deadline.

But, despite Mr Trumps comments, his lawyer Joe Tacopina said on Thursday that he wouldnt be attending the trial.

Ms Carrolls legal team called 11 witnesses during the two-week proceedings while the defence called none. Both legal teams rested their cases on Thursday.

Mr Trump has rejected all allegations in relation to the case, saying that Ms Carroll wasnt his type and that he doesnt know who she is.

In his deposition in October of last year, which was partly shared by Ms Carrolls legal team in court, he called Ms Carroll a nutjob who had made up the story of the rape to boost her book sales.

Following Mondays closing arguments, the jury is set to receive the case for deliberation on Tuesday.
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Joe Biden served in the Senate for 270 years. He used to be three years older than his sister Valerie, but now has 20 years on her. And the fourth US president  whom Mr Biden affectionally calls Jimmy Madison  is a good friend.

All kidding aside, the 80-year-old Mr Biden will tell you, he is at the end of his career, not the beginning. Hes been doing this for a long time. And he's gotten a hell of a lot of wisdom over those years, making him deserving of a second term.

As Mr Biden, the oldest president in US history, embarks on his reelection campaign, he is increasingly musing aloud about his advanced age, cracking self-deprecating jokes and framing his decades in public life as a plus, hoping to convince voters his age is an asset rather than a vulnerability.

In short, he's trying to own it.

I stand here humbled being the first sitting president of the United States to have an opportunity to speak at Ebenezer Sunday service, Mr Biden said in January at the historic Atlanta church where Martin Luther King, Jr. was the co-pastor. Youve been around for 136 years. I know I look like it, but I havent.

The octogenarian presidents comments about his age can be serious, woven into broader remarks and often used to underscore a broader point.

When Mr Biden told the Irish parliament last month that he has never been more optimistic about the future, he notably added, And Im at the end of my career, not the beginning.

The only thing I bring to this career after my age  as you can see how old I am  but is a little bit of wisdom, Mr Biden continued to the approving crowd. I come to the job with more experience than any president in American history. It doesnt make me better or worse, but it gives me few excuses.

Other times, Mr Biden  his mood buoyed by a crowd full of supporters, whether among Democratic lawmakers or at a lively union hall  is often speaking off-the-cuff, eager to make the audience laugh by poking a little fun at himself. At the annual White House Correspondents Dinner on 29 April, Mr Biden made his age an early  and frequent  punchline.

You guys were founded 122 years ago  thats not when I got endorsed, Mr Biden told a crowd of machine operators and engineers with the International Union of Operating Engineers in Accokeek, Maryland, in April. He referenced "my career of 280 years here at a Black History Month reception before being interrupted by laughter, and at an Air Force event last month, Mr Biden noted that President Dwight Eisenhower addressed the first class of the Air Force Academy more than six decades ago but that I wasn't there ... no matter what the press says.

Whether deliberate or candid, its nonetheless a strategy that evokes how Ronald Reagan defused questions about his age  then 73  during the 1984 campaign. In a debate against 56-year-old Democrat Walter Mondale, Reagan pledged he would not make age an issue nor exploit, for political purposes, my opponents youth and inexperience.

Mr Biden is doing exactly what he should be doing. Hes embracing it, hes having fun with it, hes doing exactly what Ronald Reagan did  injecting humor and self-deprecation into it, said Michael LaRosa, a former press secretary for first lady Jill Biden who also worked on the presidents 2020 campaign. By saying the quiet part out loud, everyone is in on the joke. He knows his age, and hes not pretending to be somebody hes not. And thats the most important quality in a candidate.

The president could also find himself with a general election challenger nearly as old as he is, potentially neutralizing the issue of his own age. Donald Trump, the leading Republican candidate, is 76 years old, although voters have shown less concern about his age and sharpness compared to that of Mr Biden, according to some polls. Mr Trump, for his part, insists the issue is "not age  it's Mr Bidens mental acuity.

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, struggling to gain traction in the still-forming GOP primary field, has consistently made Mr Bidens age a centerpiece of her campaign  even going as far as saying he may not make it to the end of his second term, when hell be 86 years old.

Mr Bidens personal doctor said after the presidents most recent physical exam in February that Mr Biden remains a healthy, vigorous 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency.

Still, the public remains wary about Mr Bidens capacity to do his job. A majority  57 per cent  of voters in last years midterm elections said they did not think Mr Biden has the mental capability to serve effectively as president, according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the 2022 electorate. Forty-one percent of voters said Mr Biden did.

About 9 in 10 Republicans, along with about 2 in 10 Democrats, said they thought Mr Biden doesnt have the mental capability to serve as president. Among Democrats, though, voters under 45 were roughly twice as likely as older voters to say they thought Biden doesnt have the mental capability, 27 per cent vs. 13 per cent.

An April poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showed a notable chasm between the percentage of Democrats who approve of Mr Bidens job performance  78 per cent  and those who wanted him to run again, which was at just 47 per cent. Interviews with poll respondents suggested that the gulf was due in big part to the presidents age.

Mr Bidens aides have long dismissed such concerns. To counter the age questions, his reelection campaign is likely to stress his accomplishments to highlight his fitness to do the job, while underscoring the with-age-comes-experience argument that Mr Biden himself likes to make.

Part of President Bidens argument for reelection is that he has decades of experience, said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del. I think if he can balance the occasional self-deprecating joke with showing the kind of agility, engagement, casual approach to this issue that he did at the correspondents dinner, that he did in the State of the Union, that he has in meetings with small groups of senators in public and in private, I think thats an asset.

In a new MSNBC interview last week, Mr Biden again dismissed concerns about his age, saying, I have acquired a hell of a lot of wisdom and know more than the vast majority of people.

Mr Biden's advisers also note that his age surfaced as an issue in the 2020 campaign and did not derail his path to the White House. Some of his more nominal challengers in that years Democratic presidential primary, such as former Housing and Urban Development secretary Julian Castro and former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, made veiled references to Mr Bidens age and mental acuity, but that did not gain traction among other candidates. (One of them, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is older than Mr Biden.)

Mr Biden has conceded in the past that his age is a legitimate issue for voters, and said shortly after his reelection announcement that he took a hard look at that before he formalized his decision to run for a second term.

If I guess how old I am, I cant even say the number. It doesnt -- it doesnt register with me, he said at a news conference with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol last month. But the only thing I can say is that one of the things that people are going to find out  theyre going to see a race, and theyre going to judge whether or not I have it or dont have it.
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President Joe Biden would veto a House GOP bill that aims to restrict asylum, build more border wall and cut a program that allows migrants a chance to stay in the U.S. lawfully for two years, an administration official said Monday.

Republicans are looking to capitalize on the spotlight as immigration surges into the national news this week with the ending of COVID-19 restrictions that allowed border authorities to quickly return many migrants who crossed the border illegally. They aim to vote on their Secure the Border Act on Thursday  the same day the emergency powers expire. Officials have already seen a surge of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border and are bracing for more.

The legislation represents the GOPs first major immigration policy proposal since the Trump era, when hardline immigration opponents controlled the White House. The 213-page bill resurrects a slew of Trumps policies, such as building barriers along hundreds of miles of border country, and in some cases, pushes beyond the former presidents aggressive policies.

It stands little chance of passing the Democratic-held Senate and faces strong headwinds from some Republicans representing agricultural areas over requirements that businesses verify employees' legal immigration status.

But if it were to end up on the president's desk, he'd veto it, said the official, who was not authorized to speak publicly about a decision that hasn't yet been announced and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

The bill would cut the program that allows U.S. officials to quickly turn away migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua.

The Biden administration has long argued Congress needs to act on the border in order to fix major problems that have led to record numbers of people illegally crossing. But this isn't the way to do it, in the view of the White House.

Strict new rules about to go into effect this week limit the number of people who can claim asylum at the border and instead encourage migrants to skip the dangerous and deadly journey north and apply for asylum through a new app, or at a regional hub opening in both Guatemala and Colombia.
editorial

Nigeria, as a leading voice in Africa, must prepare to participate in the processes that ensure the unity and restoration of peace in Sudan.

Thankfully the Nigerian authorities got it right this time, or somewhat, with the evacuation of over 500 Nigerians out of the ongoing mess in Sudan, and talks are out there that other batches of evacuees would soon be home-bound. Air Peace, Azman, and Max Air, in a rare act of private sector air carrier leadership of blood over profit, self-coordinated and made the evacuation possible.

Not your typical milquetoast this time, Geoffrey Jideofor Kwusike Onyeama, the minister of Foreign Affairs, impressively worked the phones and gave diplomacy a buoy, enabling the Saudis, Egyptians and Addis Ababa to allow traumatised and fleeing Nigerians get an initial resting place before they could be sent home.

Delightfully too, Onyeama's gesture added a soothing vanish on the garish dents left on the nation's image from the now famous showboating of Abike Kafayat Dabiri-Erewa, who heads President Muhammed Buhari's Diaspora Commission, and the flabby response of the Humanitarian ministry.Yet, the tragedy unfolding in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, where, according to international press accounts, already over 500 have been killed and no fewer than 100,000 now face a humanitarian crisis, has wider ramifications beyond the evacuation of Nigerians. With about seven international borders and a river that gives life to 10 countries, a full-scale war in Sudan - and we are just an inch to that - could have immediate devastating consequences in north, central and east Africa.

It is tempting to locate the roots of the current crisis in Sudan to the October 2021 coup that set up the tense relation between the Sudanese Armed Forces led by Abdelfattah Al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary force led by Mohamed "Hemedti" Haman Dagalo, over how to integrate the RSF into the regular army ranks.

Sudan's crisis, however, has complex ethnic and Islamic roots dating to the Mahdist Movement of the 19th century, which challenged and ultimately prevailed over Egyptian and then British colonialism but never could resolve the stack incongruities of race and class domination. Subsequently, post-colonial Sudan deployed religion as a screen, even as the boiler plates of inequality, poverty and discrimination kept the country constantly volatile and on the edge.It was this capacious social gorge that ultimately re-ignited the Burhan-Hemedti partnership, offering Hemedti reasons to distance himself from Al-Burhan, who he now frequently describes as "fascist" and increasingly links to former President Al-Bashir-era Islamists.

The larger issue, however, is that the potential civil war looming, sure to ripple through Sudan's restive peripheries - embroiling countless armed groups and communal militias - should alarm the Nigerian authorities because of the conceivable destabilisation this could accelerate from the insurgency in our North-Eastern corridor and the escalation of tension in the upper cone of our North-Western states, enabled by a free flow of small arms, as was the case after the fall of Libya.

Gloomily, Sudan, now the third-largest gold producer in Africa, with as much as 80 per cent of the production smuggled to Russia, has just as bad a resource curse as Libya, adequate to retain the war for years, if not decades. To save the situation, therefore, here are urgent points to address in the search for a long-term solution.PREMIUM TIMES believes the main concern would be to address the arrogant neglect to share power, on equal terms, between Sudan's powerful northern riverine Arab tribes, which, as the military and security aristocracy, have controlled the country and captured power since independence, with the Darfur Arabs, who are regarded as "primitive, uneducated and black". This must commence in earnest.

Then human rights accountability calls, particularly the trial of architects of genocide in Darfur, including handing over Al-Bashir and his henchmen to the International Criminal Court, which can no longer be delayed.

Missioners for peace in Sudan must prioritise land reform between the Arab and non-Arab Muslim tribes of Darfur, particularly the Fur, the Zaghawa, and the Masalit, which was central to the revolt against Al-Bashir, whose response was unleashing the notorious Janjaweed Arab militia bandits on the non-Arab civilian population, under military direction.

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The worst idea in statecraft for such a fractured polity is the pointlessness of trying to embed a religious ethos within a regular army, as the ongoing war of words between the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) and the RSF have alleged, of the army's plan to restore leading Islamists to power.PREMIUM TIMES is calling on Nigeria, as a leading voice in Africa, to urgently prepare to participate fully in the processes that will ensure the restoration of peace in Sudan. This should build on the old Abuja talks on Sudan.

The immediate priority, therefore, must be achieving a sustainable humanitarian ceasefire, while all national, regional, and international actors remain undaunted in rejecting the war.

The UN, Africa Union (AU) and the regional bloc in the Horn of Africa, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), should note that the worsening situation in Sudan has implications for regional security and the security of countries contiguous to Nigeria.
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Joe Biden is seeing some of the lowest approval ratings of his presidency as he prepares for his re-election fight against a Republican nominee in 2024.

A new Washington Post/ABC News poll released on Sunday shows the president with the approval of little more than a third of Americans, while he simultaneously trails his 2020 opponent (and likely 2024 rematch contender) Donald Trump by seven percentage points.

Its a very poor showing for Mr Biden, who is seeking a second term on the back of his legislative wins in the first two years of his presidency, as well as a strong showing by his party in the 2022 midterm election contests last fall that stopped Republicans from taking the upper chamber of Congress.

He announced his candidacy at the end of April following months of insistences from White House staffers that he planned to do so, and amid polling that had shown during that same time period that a majority of Democrats would prefer another candidate.

Mr Bidens approval rating sat at 36 per cent in the new poll. In a hypothetical general election matchup for 2024, the president trailed Mr Trump by a margin of 44 points to 38 points, with a large number of Americans undecided. At the same time, he trailed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in another hypothetical matchup, 42 per cent to 37 per cent.

His approval rating has dropped six points in two months in the Post/ABC survey, and more worryingly than ever is the number of Americans with concerns about his mental fitness, expected to be a top attacking point for the GOP in 2024  just 32 per cent of survey respondents were confident that Mr Biden had the mental acuity to perform his job. The poll noted that 51 per cent of Americans held that same confidence in 2020, when he was a candidate for office.

The latest poll was conducted between 28 April to 3 May, among 1,006 adults living in the US. The margin of error is 3.5 percentage points.

On Friday, the president was asked in an interview by MSNBCs Stephanie Ruhle why he believes he is the best choice to run in 2024, despite concerns about his age.

"Because I have acquired a hell of a lot of wisdom," he responded.

"I know more than the vast majority of people, the president went on to boast. Im more experienced than anybody who has ever run for the office and I think I've proven myself to be honorable as well as also effective."
 Close Trump calls Jan 6 a beautiful day during CNN town hall

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Donald Trump and his likely 2024 rival Ron DeSantis were planning on fighting for voters at duelling events in Iowa today.

Mr DeSantis, whose presidential campaign announcement could come any day now, spent the day shaking hands at a congressmans annual picnic and then an Iowa Republican Party fundraiser in Cedar Rapids.

Mr Trump was originally slated to hold an outdoor rally in Des Moines tonight, but later had to cancel because of a tornado warning.

He may have cancelled his rally, but the former president is still the center of the conversation for other reasons.

Mr Trump defended CNN over his chaotic town hall appearance on Wednesday evening, saying the network did the right thing by giving him a mainstream media platform.

The former president has also begun his appeal against the verdict in the E Jean Carroll case after he was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation earlier this week.
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Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Monday said he crossed the border into Colombia on foot to seek a meeting with international delegations gathering there for a conference focused on his countrys political crisis.

Guaido, one of the most recognizable figures of Venezuelas opposition and a presidential hopeful, announced his trip to Colombia in a statement. His campaign told The Associated Press he crossed the border through one of the bridges connecting the neighboring South American countries.

After the re-election of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in 2018 was deemed a sham by dozens of countries, Guaido declared himself Venezuelas interim president in 2019. However, his popularity has waned since then and opposition lawmakers voted in January to strip him of that role and instead appoint a committee to run what they call their interim government.

Tuesdays international conference organized by Colombian President Gustavo Petro is meant to jumpstart official dialogue between the government of Maduro and his adversaries. The formal negotiations between both sides guided by Norwegian diplomats and hosted by Mexico stalled at the end of last year.

I will be requesting meetings with members of the international delegations attending the summit, Guaido said in the statement. "I hope this summit can ensure that the Maduro regime returns to the negotiating table in Mexico and agrees to a credible timetable for free and fair elections to solve the current situation.

Until Monday, Guaido had not left his country since 2020.

Guaido recently denounced an increase in threats against him in Venezuela. In the statement, the opposition figure said he took what he called the risks of traveling there to secure international support for the democratic cause in Venezuela.

Guaido has continuously criticized Petros policies toward Maduro, including the planned conference, which will be attended by representatives of the U.S. and at least 15 Latin American and European countries. Petro and Maduro have said they will seek to end economic sanctions against Venezuela during the gathering in Colombias capital, Bogota.

When Guaido declared himself Venezuelas interim president in 2019, he ran a parallel government and was backed by the U.S., which handed him control of Venezuelan assets frozen abroad through sanctions.

He initially had broad support but disappointed many who thought he could topple Maduro and his popularity plunged within and outside Venezuela. He is now among the opposition politicians campaigning ahead of a presidential primary scheduled for October.

The gathering in Bogota gained momentum after U.S. President Joe Biden and Petro met Thursday at the White House and discussed Venezuelas challenges among other topics. The presidents issued a joint statement expressing a shared commitment to support and contribute to the solution of the situation in Venezuela.

However, Petro told reporters that his proposal to the White House included developing an electoral schedule, with guarantees, and the gradual lifting of sanctions imposed by the U.S. with the objective that the people decide freely without sanctions, without pressure, his own destiny.
More than a dozen people have been detained over violence against an opposition election rally in Turkey amid growing concern over the fairness of Sundays knife-edge vote.

Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu of the main opposition Republican People's Party, CHP, was speaking on top of a campaign bus in Erzurum when about 200 protesters began throwing stones, forcing the event to be cut short.

He was campaigning on behalf of the CHP leader and presidential candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the main opponent to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
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Turkeys president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has attacked the opposition for being pro-LGBT at a rally just a week before crucial elections in the country.

Presidential elections in Turkey are due on 14 May this year. The contest this year is so far leading up to be a close contest between Mr Erdogan and his rival Kemal Kilicdaroglu, showed opinion polls, with the former ahead by more than four points.

Appealing to his vote bank in Istanbul on Sunday, Mr Erdogan said his AK Party [AKP] and other parties in our alliance would never be pro-LGBT, because family is sacred to us.

We will bury those pro-LGBT in the ballot box.

He also attacked Mr Kilicdaroglu, who heads the main opposition alliance.

My people will not allow drunks and boozers to take the stage. Mr Kemal, you can drink barrels of it, nothing can cure you. My nation will make the necessary response on May 14. We will not allow Kilicdaroglu, who is hand in hand with terrorists, to divide our homeland, he said.

A few days ago, Mr Erdogan had said in a separate election rally that he is against the LGBT community.

Mr Kilicdaroglu, meanwhile, told a rally on Saturday: If I am elected, I will turn Turkey into a paradise where everyone lives in peace.

The Daily Sabah said polling stations closed in most countries worldwide for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections on Sunday.

It said that voting for Turkish citizens ended as of 9pm local time at Turkish diplomatic missions and border gates in many European countries, as well as North America, Central Asia and the Middle East, while it will continue in Austria, Denmark, France, Germany and Luxembourg on Tuesday from 9am to 9pm local time.

Those who couldnt vote during the designated period can cast their ballots at 46 customs gates until 5pm on 14 May, reports said.

As of Sunday, over 1.6 million Turkish citizens abroad had cast their votes to elect the countrys new president and parliamentary representatives, according to Turkeys Supreme Election Council.

On Sunday, Mr Erdogan addressed a historic crowd of 1.7 million people ahead of the 14 May polls. We have increased national income three times in 21 years. We have built 10.5 million houses and provided homes for our families.

Speaking about the devastating 6 February earthquakes, he said: We removed the ruins in three months and started the construction of new houses. The number of residences and village houses, whose construction process has started, has reached 142,000, and the number of houses whose foundations have been laid has reached 59,000.

We are working to revive our cities with 650,000 houses, of which approximately 319,000 will be delivered within a year, he said.

Mr Erdogan also accused Mr Kilicdaroglu of getting support from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has been waging an insurgency since the 1980s in which more than 40,000 people have been killed. It is considered a terrorist group by Turkey, the US and the European Union.

The opposition has previously denounced claims by Mr Erdogan linking them to terrorists as divisive and dangerous campaign rhetoric.

Some protesters, meanwhile, threw stones at Istanbul mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, a member of the main opposition Republican Peoples Party, during an election rally in the eastern city of Erzurum, a stronghold of the AK Party.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Success for Ukraine in its long-awaited counteroffensive against Russia could spell the complete collapse of Vladimir Putins military or even the Russian economy, a senior minister in Volodymyr Zelenskys government has said.

In an interview with The Independent, deputy defence minister Volodymyr Havrylov was deliberately vague about the timing of the counteroffensive, which is expected imminently as the mud and rains of spring give way to more favourable fighting conditions.

But when it does come  very soon, according to comments made by President Zelensky at a press conference last week  the offensive will expose the truth behind Russias tightly controlled propaganda regarding the war effort, and lead to a reckoning among ordinary Russians, said Mr Havrylov.

We will launch our counteroffensive  when and where it doesnt matter now, he said. [And when that happens] Russia will be in panic; you will see a lot of panic. They still dont understand that [their] propaganda is demonstrating a false picture of what is actually happening on the ground. This war will be won on the ground, not on the TV screens, not on the internet.

Mr Havrylov claims that Russia has suffered 200,000 casualties since Mr Putin invaded Ukraine on 24 February last year, though this number could not be immediately verified. Last week, Moscow rejected a US assessment that 20,000 of its troops had been killed and 80,000 injured in just the last five months, though the Russian government declined to provide its own figures.

The Kremlin has hidden the true scale of Russian losses from its own people, Mr Havrylov said, but will no longer be able to do so when Ukraine starts retaking territory and those casualties rise further still.

You cant fool your people for many years... especially if they are starting to see a difference on the ground, they are starting to see the killed and wounded, they see families who lost the men of their houses. You cant hide the death of your son, or your husband, or your brother. They [Moscow] will suffer the consequences from this.

... I would not be surprised if on some day, maybe this month or next month, we will see something which contributes to the immediate collapse of Russian strategy or its military, [its] economy, the deputy defence minister continued.

Holding the salt-mining city of Bakhmut in Donetsk has been key to Ukraines preparations for the counteroffensive, allowing the defending forces to dictate the terms of the frontline and grind down Russias core military resources. The situation there has left the mood among Russian officers at a very low level, the deputy minister said.

By maintaining a foothold in the fortress of Bakhmut, Ukraine has exposed the fact that the Russian war machine is not [of] the quality we saw a year ago when Russia launched the full-scale invasion in Ukraine and rolled in tanks in the first wave.

It means they are inevitably coming to the end in a disaster  sooner or later, Mr Havrylov said. Bakhmut demonstrated that, not only to us in Ukraine but also to the enemy, that there is no military solution for Russia in this war; even worse, there is a military disaster awaiting Russia at the end of this war, and we will see it soon.

The deputy minister said Ukraines Western allies and commercial arms companies were reluctant to supply the country in the early stages of the war without full payment up front, assuming that Ukraine wouldnt be around for long enough to complete payment by instalments. Not many countries in the world believed that Ukraine could sustain this war, he said.

British Challenger tanks in Ukraine, seen here in an image released by the Ukrainian military (Ukrainian Defence Ministry)

Now, though, the countrys forces are trained up on Challenger tanks sent in by the UK, M1A2 Abrams and Bradleys from Washington, and a collection of new and refurbished Leopard tanks from European allies. They are also equipped with rising numbers of shells and drones.

We demonstrated our courage to others, that we are reliable, serious and ready to defend our country with all means, he says. And he reiterated Ukraines call for its allies to take the next step and supply advanced fighter jets, saying there is no other way to stop Russias own modern aircraft launching strikes from deep within Russian territory.

We need something more sophisticated [than ground-based air defences], with a long-range strike capability to shoot down Russian airplanes at a distance of more than 100km (62 miles)  just to secure our people. Thats why we are asking our partners to provide modern fighter jets like F16s or similar... and we insist it be sent to us as soon as possible, because it [is] about [saving] the lives of civilians.

This war will be won by Ukraine for technological advantage and superiority, added Mr Havrylov. Trust us. Turn more positively towards Ukraine and help us achieve a result.

What that result might look like remains unclear, with Ukraine still refusing to entertain the idea of any peace settlement that involves its territory remaining in Russian hands  including the Crimean peninsula, which Moscow illegally annexed back in 2014.

Nothing will stop us from retaking this part [Crimea] of our territory, and we are very open about that, Mr Havrylov said, without detailing the military course of action that could make this a reality. We are ready to do that. Russia has to accept it as an inevitable part of this war.

With the stage set for Ukraines counteroffensive, Mr Havrylov said the situation could start to move very rapidly on the ground after many months of attritional conflict. I can only say that we are doing everything possible to end the war as quickly as possible, he said. I would really like 2023 to be a year of victory.
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Russia launched its biggest swarm of drone attacks on Ukraine on Monday as it also prepared for annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, said Russia fired 60 Iranian-made kamikaze drones at Ukrainian targets, including 36 at the capital. All those fired at Kyiv had been shot down he said, although debris hit apartments and other buildings, injuring at least five people.

This was the most massive drone attack on the capital during the entire war, Mr Klitschko, the former heavyweight boxing champion, said.

The assault is part of a renewed Russian air campaign unleashed 10 days ago after a lull since early March.

A food warehouse was also set ablaze by a missile in the Black Sea city of Odessa, where officials reported three people were injured.

Kyiv said Moscow was also making a final push to try to capture the ruined eastern city of Bakhmut to deliver Vladimir Putin what would be his only prize for a costly Russian winter offensive, in time for Victory Day.

A closed Red Square in Moscow on the eve of Victory Day in Russia on Tuesday (Reuters)

Moscow is preparing for Tuesdays Victory Day parade, the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Mr Putin, who evokes the 1945 Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany in trying to rally Russians behind his invasion of Ukraine.

But in a break with Russia, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky marked Victory Day on Monday rather than Tuesday, announcing that decree a change in the date of the holiday to match the practice of Western allies.

Recalling the heroism of millions of Ukrainians in that war against Nazism, we see the same heroism in the actions of our soldiers today, said Mr Zelenskiy, who addressed the nation from a hilltop overlooking Kyiv.

Just as evil rushed into our towns and villages then, so it does now. As it killed our people then, so it does now, he said. And all the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated, just as Nazism was defeated.

A crater near homes in Kyiv caused by a Russian drone (AFP)

The German armys surrender in 1945 took effect late at night on 8 May in Berlin, when it was already 9 May in Moscow, the date that became the Soviet holiday.

Russias foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that by changing the date, Mr Zelensky had betrayed the memory of Ukrainians who fought the Nazis. What is worse than an enemy? A traitor. That is Zelensky, the embodiment of Judas in the 21st century, she said.

Ukraine, as part of the then-Soviet Union, suffered higher per capita casualties than Russia in the Second World War and was one of the heartlands of European Jewry wiped out in the holocaust.

Russia has enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesdays commemorations. At least 21 Russian cities have cancelled traditional military parades for the first time in years.

Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko visits a home damaged by debris from an intercepted Russian drone (Getty Images)

Ukraine, which last year drove Russian forces back from the ramparts of the capital and recovered substantial territory, has maintained a defensive posture for the past six months, but says its counteroffensive will begin soon.

Ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi said on Sunday that Kyiv intended to prevent Russia declaring victory in Bakhmut by Tuesday.

The block-by-block Russian advance there is led by Wagner, a private army that recruited thousands of convicts from prison.

In Kyiv, explosions could be heard through the night. Three were injured in blasts in the Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, Mr Klitschko said.

A firefighter at the site of a Russian missile strike in Odessa on Monday (Reuters)

Kyivs military administration said drone wreckage crashed onto a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the citys two commercial airports. Drone debris also damaged a two-storey building in the central Shevchenkivskyi district.

In Odessa, flames engulfed what the Ukrainian Red Cross said was a 1,000 square metre food warehouse that it was operating. It said all the humanitarian aid stored there had been destroyed.

Natalia Humeniuk, a spokesperson for Ukraines Southern Command, later said the body of a man - a security guard  was pulled from the wreckage.

After air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, local media said explosions sounded in the southern region of Kherson and southeastern Zaporizhzhia.

The Russian-appointed regional governor, Yevgeny Balitsky, said around 3,000 civilians had been evacuated from areas near the front line that had come under shelling in Zaporizhzhia, one of the areas where Ukraine could launch its counteroffensive. Mr Balitsky said 1,552 of those, including 632 children, had been relocated from areas near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.

Reuters and Associated Press
 Close Huge smoke cloud emerges from explosion in Russia near border with Ukraine

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Moscows air forces have suffered their worst losses in 14 months of war after four military air crafts were struck down on Saturday, according to Russian media reports.

Russian news outlet Kommersant said two Russian fighter jets and two military helicopters were shot down on Saturday close to the Ukrainian border, in what would be a spectacular coup for Kyiv if confirmed.

Kommersant said on its website that the Su-34 fighter-bomber, Su-35 fighter and two Mi-8 helicopters had made up a raiding party, and had been shot down almost simultaneously in an ambush in the Bryansk region, adjoining northeast Ukraine.

According to preliminary data ... the fighters were supposed to deliver a missile and bomb attack on targets in the Chernihiv region of Ukraine, and the helicopters were there to back them up - among other things to pick up the Su crews if they were shot down.

The last time Russia took such catastrophic hits on its airforce was in early March of last year, according to The Telegraph.

Elsewhere, Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin Sunday for talks with German leaders about further arms deliveries.
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French president Emmanuel Macron this morning took part in ceremonies marking VE Day, celebrating the end of World War II in Europe (8 May).

Wreaths were laid at the Arc de Triomphe in front of the tomb of the unknown soldier, and the book of remembrance was be signed.

The day marks a public holiday for France, and many will be celebrating across the country with a day off work.

Many French people will also opt to wear the bleuet (cornflower) on their lapel as a symbol of remembrance for those who died, similarly to the way they do during November's Armistice day.

The announcement that the war had ended in Europe was broadcast to the British people over the radio on 7 May, but news took slightly longer to travel to other countries, making 8 May the Victory Day.

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Russian forces evacuated residents from a town near the occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine on Sunday as the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog said he was extremely concerned about the safety of the facility.

Ukraines military said local Russian passport-holders were being taken to the port city of Berdyansk and the town Prymorsk, both on the coast of the Sea of Azov.

The evacuation, which could not be verified on the ground, comes as Ukraine is expected to launch a much-anticipated counteroffensive to retake Moscow-held territory in the area.

Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) expressed deepening concern amid reports Russian forces fired more than 30 shells at Nikopol, a Ukrainian-held town close to the plant.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, he said.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.

Yevgeny Balitsky, the Russian-installed governor of the partially-occupied Zaporizhzhia province, announced on Friday that he had ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements in the area, including Enerhodar, which is located next to the power plant.

The settlements affected are 30-40 miles from the front line of fighting between Ukraine and Russia.

(via REUTERS)

Ukraines Special Operations Forces on Saturday accused Russia of using phosphorous in the besieged city of Bakmut and released a new video showing the tell-tale white fire from such munitions.

International law prohibits the use of white phosphorus or other incendiary weapons - munitions designed to set fire to objects or cause burn injuries - in areas where there could be concentrations of civilians, though it can also be used for illumination or to create smoke screens.

It was not possible to independently verify where the video was shot or when, but chemical weapons expert Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a former British army colonel, said it was clearly white phosphorous.

This is being fired directly at Ukraine positions and this would be a war crime, he said.

I expect because the Russians have failed to take Bakhmut conventionally, they are now using unconventional tactics to burn the Ukrainian soldiers to death or to get them to flee.

Russian forces have not commented on the claim, but have rejected previous accusations from Ukraine that they had used phosphorus munitions.

Mr Grossi said operating staff at the nuclear power plant, whose six reactors are currently all in shutdown mode, had not been evacuated as of Saturday but that most live in Enerhodar and the situation has contributed to "increasingly tense, stressful and challenging conditions for personnel and their families".

He added that IAEA experts at the nuclear site "are continuing to hear shelling on a regular basis".

"We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequence for the population and the environment," Mr Grossi said.

This major nuclear facility must be protected. I will continue to press for a commitment by all sides to achieve this vital objective.

Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report
Nairobi  Primary and secondary schools were set to reopen for second term on Monday amid challenges in processing of salaries for newly employed Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers.

Learners across country were making last-minute travel arrangement to report on Monday even as the Ministry of Education directed school heads and County Education Directors to enforce strict new measures on the safety of learners.

The Second Term will run for 14 weeks to August 11 with a mid-term break slated for June.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu said the Ministry had issued a circular directing schools to be extra vigilant on what learners consume and ensure they are well inspected.

"We have issued a circular asking everyone to be cautious with water and food that our students take, taking into consideration the schools that have had cases because of contaminated food and water," Machogu said on Friday.

Speaking during the seventh Kenya Education Management Institute (KEMI) graduation for Diploma in Education Leadership in Management, Machogu cautioned teachers against corporal punishment which he insisted remains banned.

He added that the food and water for the students will be properly inspected by experts to ensure it is fit for human consumption.

"Make sure that the food that students eat in school is properly inspected and that the water is checked every time. It should be inspected by experts to make sure it is fit for human consumption to avoid the kind of situation we got into in some of our schools," the CS advised.

Machogu also cautioned teachers against meting out corporal punishment on students.

"Once any teacher indulges in that habit of corporal punishment to our students, that is actually a criminal activity, inform teachers to desist from that habit taking root in the country."

Salary delays for JSS teachers

The reopening of schools comes at a time teachers unions have raised concerns over delays in processing of salaries for newly hired teachers.

In a statement on May 3, the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) decried the status of JSS tutors, even as it demanded their remuneration.

KUPPET Secretary General Akelo Misori said JSS teachers should be paid their salary arrears before the start of second term.

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"KUPPET demands that JSS teachers be paid all their salary arrears before the beginning of the new school term next week, as well as be promptly paid for their time and expenses in the ongoing trainings for the new curriculum," he said in a press held in Niarobi.

"The union calls upon the government to reflect and reconsider the place of JSS to avert inevitable collapse of the new CBC curriculum due to low infrastructural capacity in primary schools and unclear reporting channels whereby JSS teachers work under primary school head-teachers."

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recruited 35,550 JSS teachers who reported to their stations in February and March.

The commission said the recruits were given 30 days within which to report to their stations. It attributed salary hitches to the variance in reporting.

"This sometimes causes delays in the processing of their salaries. So far, the commission has processed over 50 per cent of the salaries of the newly employed teachers. Teachers can confirm the payments with their banks," said the TSC.

The commission assured it had put in place measures to resolve the challenges.

"All efforts are being made to affect all the salaries in May," TSC said advising teachers affected to contact the Director, Human Resource Management and Development."
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Iran has hanged two people who had been sentenced to death for blasphemy, as activists warn of the alarming surge in executions in the country.

Yousef Mehrdad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare were executed at Arak Prison in central Iran, for a multitude of charges, including blasphemy, encouraging atheism and insulting the religion of Islam.

The pair were arrested in May 2020 and accused of being involved in a channel on Telegram called Critique of Superstition and Religion, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom.

Both men faced months of solitary confinement and could not contact their families, the commission said.

The Mizan news agency of Irans judiciary, who confirmed the executions, said the men were running dozens of online anti-religion platforms.

They were also accused of burning a Quran, Islams holy book, though it wasnt clear whether the men allegedly did that or such imagery was shared in the Telegram channel.

Iran remains one of the worlds most prolific executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights.

A protester holds a portrait of Mahsa Amini during a demonstration in support of Amini, a young Iranian woman who died after being arrested in Tehran by the Islamic Republic's morality police (AFP via Getty Images)

Amnesty Internationals most recent report on executions put Iran as the worlds second-largest executioner, behind only China.

But carrying out executions for blasphemy in Iran remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.

Human Rights Activists in Iran, another group monitoring the country, warned last week about the alarming surge in executions.

The streak of executions, including members of ethnic minority groups in Iran, comes as months-long protests over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the countrys morality police.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads Iran Human Rights, decried the executions as exposing the medieval nature of Irans theocracy.

The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable, he said in a statement.

The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world.

Additional reporting by agencies
Footage shows a Ukrainian military drone capturing the moment a shell explodes in the western part of Bakhmut.

The footage shows damaged buildings and heavy plumes of smoke rising over the city, which has been the focus of heavy fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces.

Reuters news agency verified the location from the buildings, road layout, and field, which matched satellite photography of the area.

Moscow has increased attacks on Ukraine in recent days as it gears up for its Victory Day celebrations on Tuesday, 9 May.

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A Turkish opposition leader cut short a rally in the city of Erzurum after pro-government protesters pelted his campaign bus with stones.

Ekrem Imamoglu, who is the current mayor of Istanbul, was speaking in support of the CHP partys presidential candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu.

Violence flared up when supporters of the current government of Recep Tayyip Erdogan infiltrated the rally and began throwing stones.

The city of Erzurum is considered a stronghold of the the governments AKP party.

Presidential and parliamentary elections take place in Turkey on Sunday 14 May.

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In the run-up to the coronation, opinion polls have revealed that support for the monarchy is in decline (between 42 per cent and 45 per cent against or relatively indifferent). Whats more, a substantial majority of young people (68 per cent) are against the continuation of the institution, or are otherwise undecided as to what its future should be.

Indeed, unless they change their minds as they age, the monarchy may well lose majority support at some stage in the coming few decades.

On the face of it, that could be perceived as a victory for equality and democracy and a blow against privilege. But the lessons of history suggest that instead, the opposite might be true.

In most examples of the abolition of monarchies in major countries, their demise was followed by a strengthening of the right and the erosion of democracy, justice, equality and liberty.

When Charles llls namesake and ancestor, Charles l, was deposed (and executed) in 1649 (after six years of civil war), his Cromwellian republican replacement was, in some ways, even more oppressive than Charles had been.

And when the French abolished their monarchy in 1789, its republican replacement was certainly more repressive than the deposed king had been (the republicans executed over 17000 political opponents  and locked up more than 200,000)

In more recent times, the pattern has often been similar or even worse.

In 1910, the Portuguese abolished their monarchy in the hope of a more progressive future. But, instead, within 16 years, they got a right-wing dictatorship which lasted till the mid-1970s.

Then in 1917, the Russians ended their monarchic system  and, instead, got a series of even more tyrannical governments, culminating in the rule of Joseph Stalin and the murder of countless millions.

Likewise, the Germans terminated their monarchy in 1918, hoping for a better future. Instead, after just 15 years, they got an extreme right-wing racist dictatorship under a new supreme leader, Adolf Hitler. It was a transformation which led directly to World War Two and the Holocaust.

The abolition of monarchies outside Europe have also often ushered in periods of instability and extreme oppression.

One of the clearest examples was the overthrow of the Shah of Iran in 1979. The Iranian people initially welcomed their monarchs departure  but his republican replacement Ayatollah Khomeini proved to be even more oppressive.

Of course, all those deposed monarchs, though usually markedly less tyrannical than their republican successors, had nevertheless been relatively oppressive. By contrast, Britains current monarchy couldnt really be described as oppressive in any way at all. Indeed, it wields virtually no political power  and would be incapable of doing so. Thats because it genuinely lacks any democratic credibility. It simply doesnt have a mandate to wield any real power.

But its precisely that lack of democratic credibility that makes it such an effective yet powerless neutral heart for our political system. Britain has stability, in part, because the heart of its political system simply doesnt have the credibility or democratic right to get involved in politics. Even if a monarch wanted to, they couldnt.

However, any form of elected head of state (ie, a president or equivalent) would by definition have some degree of democratic credibility  and would almost certainly (at some stage) become actively involved in political struggles for power. As too many past anti-monarchists have discovered, deposing kings (or queens) can be like opening Pandoras Box. It is impossible to guarantee that there will be no unpleasant unintended consequences.

As described above, history clearly demonstrates that the right, rather than the left, normally benefits from the abolition of monarchies. But why?

As the saying goes, politics abhors a vacuum. As such, removing a major (albeit currently powerless) part of the countrys political infrastructure would enable other parts of the political firmament to flow into that vacuum.

And unfortunately, history clearly demonstrates that the elements which flow into that vacuum and occupy the space previously inhabited by the monarchy is usually the hard right  not liberals or the left.

Thats because monarchs disproportionately attract the loyalty of the right (rather than the left) and when monarchs are deposed (or monarchies are discontinued) those monarchical loyalists are, to an extent, rendered loyalty-wise politically homeless  though usually not for long!

In an age of right-wing populism, elected presidents all too often tend to be from the right. Some of the better known recent or current major examples include President Trump, President Erdogan of Turkey, President Putin, and President Bolsonaro of Brazil.

Indeed, in Britain, an elected-head-of-state system would probably favour the right even more than a purely parliamentary system does. Thats because its easier to get one populist strongman/woman elected than to guarantee that a majority of MPs will be uniformly committed to populist right-wing policies.

Even if, initially, a new elected head of state had relatively little political power, the mere fact that he or she had been directly or indeed indirectly elected would give that politician huge democratic credibility that would potentially, in the end, undermine or even challenge the sovereignty of parliament. Modern history is strewn with examples of presidential/parliamentary collisions and stalemates that could make effective government increasingly difficult.

Our monarchical system is far from perfect  but, in politics, very little is. If it aint broke, future generations should think twice before trying to fix it  otherwise, one day, we could potentially end up with some very undesirable consequences.

David Keys is archaeology correspondent for The Independent, covering history as well as archaeology
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A gunman opened fire at a mall in Allen, Texas, killing eight, including children, on Saturday. Grim video clips of the shooting quickly circulated online, showing the bodies of victims. Journalist Brian Stelter tweeted that the video was one of the absolute worst I have ever seen.

News organizations often dont release explicit footage of mass shootings out of respect for victims and because the images can be traumatizing. But the stark video from Allen, Texas, led many commenters to wonder whether that policy of discretion was a mistake.

Its a horrific video but at this point I have to wonder if the public need to start seeing these things, Jason Abbruzzese, an editor at NBC News Digital, wrote on Twitter.

Princeton history professor Kevin Kruse suggested there might be a parallel with Mamie Tills decision to publish photos of her 14-year-old son Emmett after the latter was murdered in a racist lyching in Mississippi in 1955. On Substack, journalist Steven Beschloss pointed to iconic photos from the Vietnam war, such as the murder of Viet Cong Captain Nguyen Van Lem by South Vietnamese brigadier general Nguyen Ngoc Loan. Eddie Adams won the Pulitzer Prize for the image, which is widely thought to have helped shift US sentiment against the war.

Unfortunately, images of violence, no matter how ugly, are unlikely to move the gun debate. The public is already aware of the consequences of our current gun policies, and changes to those policies are quite popular. The problem is that there is a committed minority who see any amount of death and misery as a reasonable trade-off for libertydefined as the right to own infinite guns without restriction.

Journalism tends to have its most powerful impact when it reveals information that was previously unknown, or little known, or that people were deliberately trying not to think about. One powerful example is the photographic evidence of prisoner abuse and torture by US government interrogators at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq. CBS News released these images in April 2004. The photos helped undermine American public support for what had been an overwhelmingly popular war. The reaction against the war helped lead to the election of Barack Obama in 2008 on an anti-Iraq War platform, and the American withdrawal in 2011.

The Abu Ghraib images were so powerful, again, because the abuses had been kept quiet by the US. In contrast, the United States public is very aware of the nightmare of gun violence, and especially of mass shootings.

The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012, which left 28 dead, was intensively covered by the press; president Obama delivered an emotional, televised address in which he promised to do everything he could to end gun violence. Other mass shootingsthe Pulse Nightclub in Orlando in 2016, the Uvalde elementary school shooting in 2022also received blanket coverage.

These nightmarish events have led to changes in public opinion. Gallups polling shows that following Sandy Hook in 2012, there was a sharp increase in support for stricter gun laws, jumping from 44% support to 58% support. Those numbers have largely held in the years since. The public does not need to be persuaded to embrace stronger gun laws; people are aware that gun violence is out of control, and wants stronger restrictions on firearms.

The problem, then, isnt an ignorant or recalcitrant public. The problem is that Republicans have decided that guns are central to their political identity. And that identity is more important to them than any amount of carnage.

Conservative actor Dean Cain summed up the Republican attitude in a tweet after the mall shooting.

I prefer dangerous freedom over peaceful slavery, he quipped on Twitter.

For Cain the deaths of those in Allenor Uvalde, or Sandy Hookare a small price to pay for lax gun laws. You need guns to fight for the liberty to own guns. Mass shootings are a fair tradeoff for the right to defy tyrants who want to end mass shootings. Its a perfect loop of bad logic.

Cains not alone; Republicans like Kentucky representative Thomas Massie and Colorado representative Lauren Boebert pose with guns in Christmas card family photos. Guns are regularly displayed in Republican campaign ads. Guns, and fantasies of armed resistance to vaguely defined foes are central to the GOPs messaging and the GOPs sense of themselves as a party and a movement.

Again, the GOP gun cult is outnumbered. In a just democracy, we could simply outvote them. But the US system is strongly tilted in favor of Republicans and conservatives. In particular, the Senate has a powerful GOP bias. GOP bastions like Wyoming and the Dakotas, total population 2.2 million, have three times as many Senators as Democratic California, population 39 million.

Add in the filibuster, which requires a supermajority in the Senate to pass legislation, and the gun-happy GOP effectively has an unbreakable veto on gun control. It was a minor miracle that President Biden managed to shepherd a mild gun safety bill through Congress in 2022.

If evidence of the horrors of gun violence could end gun violence in the US, we would have ended gun violence a long time ago. We have a clear public consensus for change. But our government is paralyzed by a system that empowers the far right at the expense of everyone else. We dont need more explicit images. We need more democracy. Thats a tough fight. But until we win it, people, including children, will continue to die.
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The oil and gas giant Shell announced a profit of 7.6 billion pounds this week; the companys highest ever first quarter results. At the same time, millions of people in East Africa are on the brink of famine because of a drought which scientists announced last month would not have taken place without climate change caused by the burning of fossil fuels.

Millions of animals and livestock have died, and crops failed, pushing more than 20 million people into acute hunger, with some estimates saying the true figure is closer to 100 million. Scientists part of World Weather Attribution, an organization that assesses the impact of climate change on extreme weather events, said human-caused climate change has made the drought 100 times more likely.

The moral case for holding these fossil fuel companies responsible for the harm they are creating is now clear. And it seems the UK public agree. Polling conducted by Savanta on behalf of Christian Aid has shown that 78 per cent of the public believe its wrong for fossil fuel giants to profit without taking responsibility for the damage caused by their activities.

The people suffering the worst impacts of climate change have done almost nothing to cause the crisis they now suffer from. Per capita, the UK emits 57 times more carbon than Somalia, and yet it is Somalians facing drought that is destroying their lives and livelihoods.

The good news is that the world is waking up to this injustice. At the COP27 climate summit last year, countries agreed for the first time to create a Loss and Damage Fund which would help compensate people who have faced catastrophic losses due to climate change. That was a major victory for vulnerable countries, and offers hope that justice may finally be served.

But currently the fund is an empty bucket, and until countries start to fund it, no help or justice will be on its way to those facing such terrible consequences for the actions of the rich world. What better source of funds to bring help to the climate vulnerable than the profits from the oil and gas which has caused their plight?

The polluter pays principle is the obvious solution. The UK government should tax the record profits of these fossil fuel giants and use that revenue to make the UKs contribution to the Loss and Damage Fund. Not only is this the right thing to do, the public backs it. In the same polling from Christian Aid, 63 per cent of UK adults agreed that the government should tax fossil fuel profits to pay into the fund.

This view was shared by that other source for testing the pulse of the nation  Gogglebox. The Channel 4 show, where viewers watch a selection of fellow Britons as they themselves watch TV, saw widespread anger at the injustice of climate change and support for the Loss and Damage Fund when they were shown a news package about COP27 last year. As Pete Sandiford from Blackpool said, if someone crashed their car into his living room, he wouldnt be expected to pay for it. He said: Youd be going hang on a minute, youve caused the damage, youre fixing it.

Any well-functioning market needs to have feedback loops to ensure that the negative impacts of certain activities are reflected within the market itself, and so a true cost of those activities are then captured and understood. Climate change is an example of a market failure where the negative consequences of the emissions are not felt by those that make, sell and use them, but by people who have had nothing to do with them. Taxing these profits and channelling the money to the Loss and Damage Fund would be a step towards redressing this catastrophic imbalance.

The need is great, the science is clear, the moral case is obvious and the public are supportive. What is lacking is political action. This is why Christian Aid is calling on people to contact their MPs to make the case for this simple tax which would bring much needed help and fairness to those suffering the most.

We are fortunate to live in a democracy where our MPs are accountable to us, the voting public. Writing to your MP or going to visit them is likely a far more impactful act than all the votes an individual will ever cast. Elections are rarely won by a single vote, but a single letter or conversation with your MP can change their mind. MPs take note of the issues their constituents write to them about.

Climate change is no longer an issue that will only affect our children. It is affecting people now; people who have done nothing to deserve it. Taxing the record profits of the likes of Shell is a first step to righting this wrong, and bringing life-giving help to those who need it most.

Steven Croft is Bishop of Oxford, and a member of the Lords Select Committee for the environment and climate change
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Does Meghan Markle regret not coming to the coronation? I suspect she might  though she may never admit it. Most of us put a brave face on decisions made in haste, or error; its hard work to accept that you may well have made the wrong call. Even harder work to say so publicly.

We will probably never know the truth, but it is fairly apparent given the optics that she might be feeling a certain pang of remorse now its all over: for the coronation was a triumph. One of the biggest events of the century, a slice of living history. One filled with affectionate family moments, as well as pomp and ceremony  just look at the role played by so many of Queen Camillas grandchildren, who joined the royal couple on the balcony.

Thats one of the saddest reasons for her absence  for it means that their children, Archie and Lilibet, missed out too. And, in stark contrast to the togetherness of most of the other royals was Markles husband  Prince Harry. He cut a sombre and solitary figure, walking down the aisle alone at Westminster Abbey. If hed had his wife by his side, maybe he wouldnt have looked quite so awkward.

Maybe he would have chosen differently too: he might have stayed on longer, rather than making himself notable in his absence on the balcony after the ceremony, and at the official celebratory lunch. Harry who? was the question on everyones lips.

His swift exit, according to reports, may have had something to do with wanting to get back to his wife and children  the official reason given for Markles absence was to celebrate their son Archies fourth birthday, back in California. Perhaps, if she had braved coming to the coronation, it would have gone some way to repair the rifts that have torn them apart?

It might even have gone some way towards reducing the distance created by the couples decision to step down from their royal duties altogether; or helped with making amends for the hurt caused by the publication of Harrys memoir, Spare, in January.

In his book, the Duke of Sussex accused the royal family of a litany of wrongs, including details of physical fights with Prince William and claims his brother called Meghan difficult, rude and abrasive. Harry also claimed elsewhere in the book that his father, the new King, urged his sons to stop fighting at Windsor after the Duke of Edinburghs funeral. In a tense meeting, Harry wrote, a grieving Charles seemingly told his sons: Please, boys. Dont make my final years a misery.

The title of the book refers to the idea of an heir and a spare  one sibling in line for the throne, with the other a back up. And Harry made his feelings on this particular matter crystal clear: alleging William and Kate encouraged him to wear Nazi uniform, and revealing that the now Princess of Wales made his wife cry in the lead-up to their wedding. He was also said to have called his role as best man at Prince Williams wedding a bare-faced lie.

Coming to the coronation must have been very hard for Harry. Facing up to your family once youve played a part in your mutual estrangement would feel insurmountable for anyone. Walking down the aisle in a public ceremony watched by millions, however  and doing it completely alone  seems almost unthinkable.

Meghan, too, has been subject to tense and unfair scrutiny by the press and sections of the public (and palace) for years. Her decision to attend would not have been easy. But I cant help thinking she should have chosen differently anyway  made the sacrifice for her husband, her children and the wider family unit.

But she didnt  and I fear she will come to wish she had. She, Archie and Lilibet missed out on the event of (quite literally) a lifetime: the crowning of a King. Why wouldnt they regret that?
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Never was there a more solitary figure than the Kings second son walking down the aisle alone at the coronation.

If your heart didnt ache to see Prince Harry  yes, the spare, the black sheep, the outlier  taking those brave steps all by himself to sit alongside former friends and relatives after months of acrimony, then it must be made of stone.

Forget what hes done: the tell-all, explosive memoir, the revealing Netflix documentary, the inner circle revelations that have sent shockwaves through the core of the royal family. All I saw was a self-conscious, grim-faced man, in pain, without the comfort of his wife to soften the blow. I can only imagine how tightly he must have been gritting his teeth to do it in the first place.

And while the Duke of Sussex walked into the venue with his cousins, Beatrice and Eugenie, and their respective partners, he could not have looked more lonely.

We all know what its like to have to go to a big event (a wedding, a family party, a birthday) without your other half  you feel like a part of you is missing. And Im sure we can all imagine what it would feel like to be without the one person who makes us feel bolstered, bold and confident at a once-in-a-lifetime event  at the same time as your own brother has his wife and children by his side.

It must be a painful wrench indeed for Harry to be without Meghan today.

It is perhaps no surprise that hes cutting his time in London short  Harry is rumoured to be returning to the US almost immediately after the coronation, after arriving early on Friday morning. He wasnt even there with the rest of the royal family on the balcony.

But imagine how fast his heart must have been beating, how tough it must have been to keep a perfect poker face throughout the whole affair  could you have done it? Im not sure I could have. Especially because this marks the first time Harry is seeing his father, brother Prince William, and other members of the royal family since he released his memoir Spare in January; notable for shocking revelations such as claims William physically attacked him, as well as his thoughts on Queen Camilla, his sex life, his drug use and his kill count during his time served in the army.

If youve ever experienced a family breakdown or estrangement, or even just a savage argument at the dinner table, then you know how much it takes to walk back into the room (yes, even if youre the one who stormed out of it in the first place). It takes bravery, humility and a good deal of self-awareness to face the music after youve caused a right royal fuss. For that, Harry deserves to be commended.

The fact that he turned up in the first place is admirable enough  many wouldnt have been able to stomach it.

Imagine the eyes of the world, let alone your family, on you and you alone; the whispers and giggles and snide looks. Imagine the poignancy of being relegated to the third row, next to a second cousin of the King, while your brother takes prominence and embraces your father as part of the official pledge of allegiance. Imagine knowing that you could have avoided it all by staying at home with your wife and celebrating your sons fourth birthday. Archies birthday plans apparently include a low-key party at the couples California residence. Quite a change from a coronation, then.

People blast Harry for betraying his family, but his presence at his fathers special day, to my mind, proves the opposite: hes showing them a great deal of respect, at the expense of his own comfort. Lesser men wouldnt have gone at all.

Weve explored before the idea that you might have to divorce your family in order to have a successful marriage; have heard the argument that in fact, its quite right that Harry chose Meghan and his children Archie and Lilibet over the sense of duty and rigid responsibility that would have kept him stifled and unhappy. Some might argue the bravest thing would have been for Meghan to come to the coronation to be by his side. But had he not split from the establishment  had he remained in Britain, and the couple been made central to proceedings  my guess is we would see a man even more reduced.

What Harry has done today took guts, strength, determination, love  and respect. We should show him the same in return.
Gabriel Makhlouf is a long-standing critic of the industry which saw a raft of fraud cases and collapses last year. Photo: Steve Humphreys

Unbacked cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin are Ponzi schemes and should be treated with a large dose of scepticism, the Central Bank has warned.

Central Bank governor Gabriel Makhlouf, a long-time critic of the industry, said regulators were concerned about the potential for crypto to cause consumer harm.

He also hinted the Central Bank is set to crack down on crypto influencers who promote crypto products online without disclosing their related financial interests.

The purchase of such products can be similar to purchasing a lottery ticket: you might win but you probably wont, Mr Makhlouf wrote in a blog post published on the Central Bank website.

And describing it as investment, is, needless to say, an abuse of the word; Ponzi schemes might be more accurate.

His remarks come two weeks after the European Parliament agreed its first package of regulations to manage prudential and consumer risk in the crypto industry.

The Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulations set common standards across Europe for supervising crypto firms, enabling regulators to trace transactions, and introduce rules against market manipulation.

Mr Makhlouf said the Central Bank was discouraging the marketing of cryptocurrencies to the public because of its poorly understood risks and aggressive advertising.

A particular concern of mine remains the aggressive advertising  which is sometimes false or misleading  through the use of influencers to promote crypto while not disclosing the fact they are being paid, he wrote.

Mr Makhlouf made a distinction, however, between the majority of crypto assets and tokens that are backed by reserves and capital controls, saying the Central Bank remained open to backed crypto.

However, he signalled that regulators in Ireland and the EU would be tightening controls on the industry following the crypto winter which saw the collapse of the TerraUSD stablecoin and crypto exchange FTX.

In the case of crypto, this market is developing at pace and the risks to consumers and investors are rising, particularly as these products remain unregulated, he said.

While the market itself  including so-called influencers  often speaks to the potential opportunities around crypto, regulators around the world have long been talking about the risks consumers face as they interact with the sector.

He said crypto would be supervised like any other financial market in proportion to the risks it posed, adding that crypto firms would eventually have to protect client funds, maintain high standards of governance and disclose relevant information just like mainstream financial firms.

Mr Makhlouf has spoken out regularly in recent years about the risks of allowing the crypto industry to go unregulated, calling crypto assets highly speculative.

Earlier in the year crypto platform Coinbase was one of several fintech firms targeted by the Central Bank in a highly critical Dear CEO letter after a review found significant deficiencies in how some firms safeguarded customer money.

Fintech firms, including some that deal in crypto, are now being forced to submit special audits detailing how they segregate client funds and prevent money laundering.

Regulators have warned chief executives that if they dont fix the problems, they could face enforcement action, steep fines, and costly risk mitigation programmes.
All Together Now returns from August 4-6

Iggy Pop, Lorde, Jamie xx and Lankum have been announced as headline acts for the All Together Now festival.

The musical, culture and art showcase will return to Curraghmore House, Waterford, on the August Bank Holiday weekend, from the 4-6.

Over 100 acts will perform across 16 stages over the weekend.

Acts already confirmed include LCD Soundsystems James Murphy  who was play a DJ set  Billy Bragg, Sugababes, Todd Terje, Lisa ONeill, Fight Like Apes, Saint Sister, Andy Irvine and David Kitt.

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One of the highlights of the festival is the Belonging Bandstand Brunch, which will be headlined this year by Irish comedian and chat show host Tommy Tiernan.

General, family, and early entry passes and additional campervan passes will go on sale, on Ticketmaster.ie and other usual outlets, on Thursday, May 11.

Tier one, two and three passes are already sold out, but tier four tickets will go on sale  priced at 235 each.

All Together Now is again strictly over 21s.

Children aged 12 years and under can attend free of charge, but they must be accompanied by a parent with a family ticket.
Bolt has warned some drivers using fraudulently illegal applications to defraud customers by overcharging the trips.

Bolt Country Manager Charles Matondane said in Dar es Salaam said they are working with platform companies to ensure these illegal applications and the hacking of smartphones are eliminated to ensure their GPS data is not adjusted to inflate the price per trip.

"We would like to state that the use of any alternative application or patches by drivers in the market is unlawful and Bolt does not condone such behaviour," Mr Matondane said over weekend.

Bolt boss said they will continue to report those incidents to the police and Land Transportation Control Authority (LATRA).

The complaints were rose by regular customers who noticed unusual price hike and notify the ride-hailing service provider.

On other hand, to enhance driver relations across the country, he said they are planning to open a Driver Engagement Centre in Dar es Salaam this month to address drivers' concerns.

"We caution our drivers' community to not transact or engage with any unauthorised agents or persons who purport to represent Bolt," he said.

To enhance service delivery, Bolt said they continue to work closely with the LATRA to improve safety and standards in the ride-hailing market.

"We are encouraged by these interventions as it will improve ride-hailing across the country and also resolve issues affecting the driver and passenger community,' he said.

Bolts currently operates in three cities, Dar es Salaam, Mwanza and Dodoma.
AFTER the two opening episodes of new dystopian drama Silo (Apple TV+), you may find yourself yearning for the wide open post-apocalyptic spaces of The Last of Us.

It might be crawling with the infected out there, but at least theres a bit of fresh air and sunshine to be had. Silo, based on a series of science fiction novels by Hugh Howey, offers so such compensations to its suffering characters. Or to its viewers.

The relentlessly grim, gloomy setting, realised at enormous cost and with extensive CGI, is painted from a pallet of drab browns and greys. Its a vision of a claustrophobic subterranean hell on  or more accurately, under  Earth.

At an unspecified time in the future, the last remnants of the human race, about 10,000 of them, live in the enormous titular cylinder, which extends 140 storeys into the ground.

Curiously, theyre mostly Americans, like Tim Robbins and Will Patton, or Brits pretending to be Americans, like David Oyelowo, Harriet Walter and Geraldine James.

Theres a lone Swede, Rebecca Ferguson, whos one of the executive producers as well as the lead, also playing an American.

Their only view of the outside world, which theyve been told is toxic and unliveable, comes from an exterior camera relaying an image to window-like video screens.

The job of cleaning the grime from the camera so everyone can have a crystal-clear view of how horrible it is out there falls to those unfortunate citizens who break the laws and are expelled from the silo, or who express a desire to leave, believing theyre being lied to in order to keep them subjugated.

All someone has to do is say they want out, and theyre out. Theres no changing their minds or taking it back. Every one of the them tries to make it over a nearby hill, and every one of them dies within minutes from breathing in all that poisonous air.

And there are plenty of laws to break inside the silo. Laws about who can and cant have babies. Laws about having forbidden relics  things from the days before whatever it was that screwed up the world.

It seems nobody knows what the cataclysmic event was or who built the place they call home. Said relics can be anything from a Pez sweet dispenser or a camcorder to a hard drive potentially containing explosive information about the origin of the silo and what its authoritarian rulers are really up to.

Its this last object that upends the life of one of the men charged with upholding the law, Sheriff Holston (Oyelowo). Holstons wife Allison (Rashida Jones) comes into contact with a hacker in possession of the hard drive, starts asking dangerously awkward questions and becomes convinced the outside word is safe. Theres only one way to find out, though.

Allison leaves the silo and meets a predictable fate. Holston eventually follows her and also dies.

His death is what triggers Silos main plot, which kicks in two years later and focuses on engineer Juliette (Ferguson), who works at the bottom level of the structure, literally and in terms of the societal hierarchy,

The hacker happened to be her boyfriend (relationships are also strictly policed in this world) and when hes murdered, she begins to dig for the truth about the silo.

Theres clearly going to be a lot of dense mysteries to unlock in Silo. But after the striking first episode, the going is heavy, the enclosed setting as oppressive to look at as it is to live in.

You might be inclined to look for the exit door before the remaining eight weekly episodes are up.

One that looks well worth sticking with, on the other hand, is new half-hour cop comedyBlack Ops (BBC1, Friday). Stars and co-writers Gbemisola Ikumelo and Hammed Animashaun play black Community Support Officers Dom and Kay, who are recruited, out of sheer desperation, to go undercover and infiltrate a gang.

Shes smart but has had the ambition knocked out of her. Hes daft and guileless. It manages to wring big, silly laughs from the unlikely subjects of racism and drug-dealing and delivers, at the end of the first episode, a right whopper of a twist.
A broken lift left two children confined to the first floor of a home for people with disabilities for 25 days without any alternative being considered, according to an inspection report.

The situation was revealed during an unannounced inspection of Woodbrook Lodge in Monaghan, run by MMC Childrens Services Limited, the report from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) revealed.

This was an unannounced inspection carried out to monitor the safety and quality of the service being provided to three residents living in the centre, it said.

During the introductory meeting, the inspector was informed that, the lift which transported residents from the ground floor to their first floor bedrooms was out of order since December 31, 2022.

All residents in this centre were wheelchair users and required their chairs to mobilise, the lift being out of order resulted in two of the residents being confined to the first floor of their home for 25 days without any alternative being considered.

The third resident could be carried downstairs by staff. The residents had been living in their bedrooms, engaging in limited activities on the landing area of the first floor, having their meals in the upstairs office area, did not attend school and one resident missed an appointment as there was no way to get them down the stairs except in the case of an emergency.

"The inspector issued an urgent action requiring the provider to submit assurances on how they would address the issue.

The inspector observed the resident who could be transported downstairs being supported by staff in the downstairs sitting room. The resident was observed to be watching television and resting. The inspector was informed by a staff member that the resident had been unwell that morning and they were transferred to hospital during the inspection.

The inspector was introduced to the two other residents. One resident was relaxing in their bedroom watching their preferred television programmes. The resident appeared happy and comfortable in their interactions with the staff members. The resident did not engage in any other activities during the inspection and preferred to stay in their room.

"The third resident chose to have limited interaction with the inspector. However, the inspector observed them engage with the staff members throughout the day.

It said the staff team were observed on the day to interact with the residents in a respectful and caring manner. However, due to the lift issues, it said residents' needs were negatively impacted.

The providers agreed to an action plan to address issues raised by inspector.

Hiqa said of the 36 inspections, inspectors found a generally good level of compliance with the regulations and standards in 17 centres operated by a number of providers including Nua Healthcare Services Limited, Praxis Care, Resilience Healthcare Limited, St John of God Community Services CLG, Stewarts Care Limited, Sunbeam House Services CLG, Talbot Care Unlimited Company, the Cheshire Foundation in Ireland, the Rehab Group, Trinity Support and Care Services Limited, and Waterford Intellectual Disability Association CLG.
Prison officer stabbed in face by convicted killer during attempted escape

Victim is being treated for significant injuries following the attackThe suspect has been returned to Mountjoy Prison as gardai investigate incident

The prisoner has been taken back to Mountjoy Prison after the attack

Robin Schiller Mon 8 May 2023 at 16:55






EXCLUSIVE |

Gerry The Monk Hutch gave gardai 48 hours to talk to him before he fled to Spain  weeks after Regency attack
Guests were left shocked after the man entered the building shirtless at around 6.00pm.

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

CTSFO attend a report of a male with a gun in the Clayton Hotel in Belfast on May 7th 2023 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)   Kevin Scott

Armed counter terror police were scrambled to a Belfast hotel following reports that a man with a gun had entered the hotel and was screaming at staff and guests.

One man was taken hostage during the terrifying incident which happened at the Clayton Hotel on Ormeau Avenue shortly after 6pm on Sunday.

He was released unharmed.

Police arrested a 31-year-old man and later revealed the gun was a replica.

In Pics: CTSFO respond to reports of man with gun in Belfast Hotel

Police dog units and specialist firearms officers carrying shields and assault rifles swooped on the hotel moments after the incident began.

It is understood a man entered the hotel shirtless and began to smash glass, before approaching the front desk and screaming at them to get down.

Having concealed what appeared to be a gun under the shirt he had removed, he then moved to the restaurant area and began screaming at guests.

It is understood the front desk staff locked themselves in a safe room and activated a panic button to alert police. Staff evacuated the city centre hotel.

Its understood that the man was arrested shortly after the polices arrival.

A topless man in handcuffs was taken from the hotel by officers as crowds watched on from nearby bars.

One person tweeted that the intruder had pointed a gun at his daughter and a member of the hotel staff before going into the restaurant screaming for everyone to get down.

The hotel declined to comment when contacted by the Belfast Telegraph.

A large cordon remains in place at the scene.

In a statement, the PSNI said a 31-year-old man had been arrested following reports that a man with a gun had entered a hotel on Ormeau Avenue, Belfast.

Police received a report just before 6.45pm that a man had entered the hotel with what was believed to be a gun and threatened the staff and guests present.

Chief Inspector Prendergast said: Response officers were on the scene within five minutes. On arrival, the suspect was holding a man hostage. All other persons were evacuated.

Specially trained officers arrived shortly afterwards and the hostage was released just after 7pm.

The suspect attempted to make off from the scene, but was detained by police. It was confirmed that the item was not a firearm.

He was arrested on a number of offences and has been taken to police custody, where he remains at this time.

I want to thank the staff and patrons present for their cooperation during what was a terrifying ordeal. Thankfully, no-one is believed to have been physically harmed. Officers remain at the scene.

I would appeal to anyone who was in the area who may have footage of the incident, or any other information which could assist our investigation, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1612 of 07/05/23.

Botanic councillor Gary McKeown said the incident must have been a horrific ordeal for everyone present.

"I hope that they are getting the support they need, he said.

"Aside from the shocking details coming out around this incident and the impact on those involved, more generally it risks harming our reputation as a welcoming and safe city.

"Thankfully incidents like this are few and far between, and I would like to thank the police for their swift response.

"The most important thing is the wellbeing of those involved, and my thoughts are with them as I'm sure this incident will have a real impact.

"However, it's also worth emphasising that Belfast is a fantastic city to visit with lots to do and great hospitality, and I would like to reassure any people thinking of coming here that this was an isolated incident that doesn't reflect the reality of how safe it is here."
Some tactical planning meant that Irish nursing student Claire Thompson landed a seat right behind ITVs Ant and Dec for King Charless coronation.

More than 850 community and charity representatives were invited to attend the coronation on Saturday, and Thompson (29) was selected as a result of raising awareness of Makaton  a communication aid for people with learning disabilities  on social media under @makatonmondays.

Ms Thompson, from Belfast, was asked to arrive on Lambeth Bridge near Westminster Abbey at 7am, before she and other community representatives were ushered into the Westminster Abbey.

They were shown the area they were allowed to sit in and could select their own seats. I was tactical about it. There was free seating, so I walked up as far as I could and when I saw Ant and Decs names I went and sat behind where they would be. I was most excited to meet them.

Miss Piggy and Tom Cruise star at coronation concert

She struck up a conversation with the presenting duo when they arrived in their pew and joked that they should greet Boris Johnson with the phrase, Evening, Prime Minister when he entered the Abbey.

This references a swipe the presenters took at the then prime minister live on air after news of the Downing Street Christmas party during Covid lockdown emerged. They stared down the camera and said: Evening, Prime Minister... for now.

She also met Lionel Richie, who performed at the coronation concert in Windsor Castle last night.

Claire Thompson and her husband Josh

The coronation didnt begin until nearly 11am, so Ms Thompson and others had to wait some time in the Abbey before things kicked off.

It flew by, she said. They were playing music and you could see all the celebrities, like Emma Thompson arriving. The people sitting beside me were lovely, so I chatted to them.

During the coronation, the woman next to me pinched me and said, Its really happening. It was so surreal to see him being crowned and watching him walk by afterwards to see that bit of history.

Phones had to be switched off for the ceremony but when Ms Thompson turned it back on she was inundated with messages from friends and family who had seen her on the televised coverage.

After all the world leaders and royals had left, we could all go. So I got a picture with Lionel Ritchie and Ant and Dec. We were given ponchos on the way out so I could keep the programme of the coronation dry. I dont think it will fully hit me for a few weeks.

Prince Williams tribute to King Charles at coronation concert: Pa, we are all so proud of you

Thousands of people gathered in London for the coronation. At the same time many held pro-republic protests in cities such as Cardiff and Edinburgh.

A crowd of anti-monarchy protesters also gathered in Londons Trafalgar Square, where the ceremony was relayed over loudspeakers. Whenever Charless name was mentioned, demonstrators chanted not my king. They also chanted stick the monarchy up your ar** and down with the crown.

The police faced much criticism following the arrest of the CEO of anti-monarchy group Republic, Graham Smith. Louise Carter, from London, had brought her son and said no one cares about the monarchy, apart from hardcore royalists. It is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous, she said.

Many of those who attended the protest described the monarchy as anti-democratic.
Rain and thunder on the way today. Photo: Roger Jones

Met Eireann has extended a Status Yellow thunderstorm warning to 11 counties, as widespread rain is forecast nationwide this afternoon.

The thunderstorm warning will covers counties Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wicklow, Tipperary and it runs from midday until 9pm tonight.

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Met Eireann said the potential impacts include spot flooding and hazardous travel conditions.

The UKs Met Office has also issued a Status Yellow thunderstorm warning for counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Tyrone, Derry from midday until 9pm.

Met Eireann said today will start out mostly cloudy and misty with patchy drizzle as rain near the east coast quickly clears. Sunny spells will develop as the day goes on, with scattered showers that will become more widespread and heavy during the afternoon. Some thundery downpours will occur, especially in the east, bringing a risk of spot flooding. Highest temperatures today will range from 14C to 20C.

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Heavy or thundery showers will clear eastwards this evening, and showers will become isolated tonight. Clear spells will form with some mist patches. Towards morning, more heavy showers will develop near the west coast. Overnight temperatures will drop back to between 7C and 10C.

The forecaster said showers will become widespread again tomorrow, with some heavy downpours and thunder in the afternoon. There will be some sunny spells at times too, with highest temperatures of 13C to 16C.

Ireland's 7-day weather forecast

Met Eireann said Wednesday will be a showery day with some heavy and possibly thundery downpours. There will be some sunny breaks at times too, with highest temperatures of 13C to 15C.

Sunshine and showers are forecast again for Thursday, with highest temperatures 13C to 16C.

Mainly dry weather with some sunshine is expected on Friday as winds ease light variable or calm. A little warmer too with highs of 15C to 18C, Met Eireann said.

Current indications suggest that next weekend will be changeable with some rain or showers at times but dry bright periods occurring too with sunny spells. Temperatures around 14C to 17C on Saturday, though it looks like it'll turn cooler on Sunday.
The High Court has directed that an application for permission to bring a challenge over the ethics watchdog's refusal to investigate a claim Taoiseach Leo Varadkar leaked a draft GP contract should be heard on notice to both the watchdog and on Mr Varadkars solicitors.

The challenge against the Standards in Public Office Commission (Sipo) is being brought by People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy.

Mr Murphy initiated the challenge last February and it was adjourned until last month when Mr Justice Charles Meenan said he first wanted certain legal points clarified before he permitted Mr Murphy to pursue his challenge.

The judge, in doing so, pointed to the preliminary nature of Sipos decision not to conduct a preliminary inquiry into the alleged April 2019 conduct.

There is a considerable amount of case law saying that usual features of fair procedure rules dont apply to the same extent at a preliminary stage, he said.

Among the Dublin South-West TD's grounds of challenge is a claim his right to fair procedures and natural and constitutional justice was breached by Sipos decision.

Footage from Coronation shows Leo Varadkar picking his nose

He further seeks an order remitting the matter back to Sipo for reconsideration.

Mr Murphy made a complaint in November 2020 to Sipo that Mr Varadkar, then Tanaiste, now Taoiseach, provided a copy of the confidential proposed GP contract agreement in April 2019 to Dr Maitiu O Tuathail, president of the National Association of General Practitioners (NAGP).

The agreement had been negotiated between the Department of Health, the HSE, and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO).

Dr O Tuathails NAGP was a rival to the IMO and was not party to the negotiations.

Mr Murphy says the document was confidential and had not been released publicly.

Mr Varadkar, following publicity about the alleged leak, denied it was confidential by the time he passed it on to Dr O'Tuathail.

The case returned before the judge today when he directed that the hearing of the application for leave to bring the challenge be heard on notice to Sipo and that Mr Varadkar's solicitors also be served with the papers.

He put the case in for mention again next month.
Brian Leddin at the controls of an aeroplane. He hasn't flown since 2019

A TD who refuses to take flights for environmental reasons has confirmed that he holds a private pilots licence.

Brian Leddin, the Green TD for Limerick City, decided he would practise what he preaches by avoiding aviation for the benefit of the planet.

He has not taken a flight since his election to the Dail in 2020. But last night he admitted that he possesses a pilots licence.

Mr Leddin explained he had been fascinated by aircraft since he was a small boy. He obtained his pilots licence in his 20s, explaining: I grew up near an airfield, a couple of kilometres.

Limerick Flying Club is based at Coonagh Airfield in Limerick and the flight path was over the house where I grew up. We would see them (light aircraft) all the time.

Since his election in 2020, he has chosen to travel by ferry and by rail when asked to attend events abroad

When I started working and earning money I decided I would join the club and I spent many Saturdays and Sundays out there. I tipped away at it for a couple of years. I finally qualified in 2009 at age 29. I loved it  it was great fun. A lot of people would have worked at Shannon Airport as many of my friends did.

He is now qualified to fly single-engine piston aircraft and to fly solo  and even to fly at night, by instruments only. He believes he has 150 to 200 hours flying time accumulated, not a huge amount. He has not flown since 2019.

Since his election in 2020, when asked to attend events abroad, he has chosen to travel by ferry and by rail.

Mr Leddin recently came unstuck when assigned to an Oireachtas committee delegation to Amsterdam looking at active travel infrastructure and green hydrogen. He was returning by train through England to Holyhead to catch a ferry when there was a delay.

Brian Leddin

He said: The system was held up for two hours and the train came to a standstill. We had to get off at Chester.

I finally got into Holyhead, only for the ferry to be about 40 feet away in the harbour, having cast off. I was two minutes late. It was a case of so near and yet so far.

I was told not to worry by a Stena Line lady  that they would make sure to get me on a sailing at two oclock in the morning. But that was six hours away.

Mr Leddin whiled away some time in a pub where he met a party of young local men, the cohort particularly affected by Brexit.

It was an education just to hear their views It was a 21st birthday party, and I suspect they were all port workers. A lot of them probably voted for Brexit.

I think aviation has a future, with sustainable and synthetic fuels

Asked whether he needed to keep up his flying hours by taking light aircraft back to the skies, he said: I miss it, but I am still very interested in aviation.

I also think it has a future with sustainable and synthetic fuels. There is a lot of work being done in this area, including by the University of Limerick, Shannon Airport and Shannon-Foynes Port. Hydrogen would a principal component in a sustainable aviation fuel in my view.

Mr Leddin added: Now my secret is out, many people will find it extraordinary that I have a pilots licence but wont even get on a plane as a passenger.

I havent flown in a long time. I definitely dont suggest to anybody that they shouldnt fly, or that its the wrong thing to do. And trains are mostly good fun  very comfortable and with good Wi-Fi so you can work away.

But the reason I dont fly is because of climate and emissions  and I have made the same decision about driving, by the way. So far for me it has been possible to travel more slowly, and I would recommend trying it. But I would also understand that different people have different needs and it mightnt work for everybody.
A security guard at Googles European headquarters who denied that he was caught sleeping on the job and instead said he just had his eyes closed for a long duration of time has failed in a statutory challenge to his sacking.

Donatus Okafor told the Workplace Relations Commission he was not sleeping when his supervisor arrived, and that he had only missed a phone call because the volume on his device was turned down.

Defending the claim, a manager for Synergy Security Solutions, Mr Okafors employer, said it would have been disastrous for all concerned if there had been a fire or a break-in at the Google offices at Barrow Street, Dubin 4, on the night in question, 4 April last year.

It could have been disastrous for all concerned, and specifically if the client had arrived and found the security guard asleep, the relationship between the company and the client would have been destroyed, the firms general manager, Shahz Saeed, told a hearing in March.

Mr Okafor, who represented himself, said the company failed to take account of his personal circumstances when it happened, less than two months after the death of his father.

Mr Okafor said he was working long and varied shifts in an effort to save up money to return to his birthplace in Nigeria for his fathers funeral later that month, and was stressed and depressed.

To get by during this time, he said he started to self-medicate with anti-depressant medication given to him by his wife, he said.

Mr Okafor said he took the medication at work on the night in question, then felt dizzy, sat down at his desk and closed his eyes.

In his evidence he denied that he was sleeping and told the WRC he just had his eyes closed for a long duration of time.

Mr Saeed, Synergys general manager, said the companys control room rang Mr Okafor five times without answer and that a supervisor went to the site out of concern for the complainants health and safety.

The companys position was that the supervisor found Mr Okafor asleep while on duty and reported the matter.

Investigation and disciplinary meetings follows, leading to a finding of gross misconduct against Mr Okafor and the termination of his employment on 16 June 2022, the tribunal heard.

In his decision, adjudicating officer Paul McKeown wrote that there was no significant, or at least convincing, argument put forward by Mr Okafor that there had been any defects in Synergys disciplinary process in his case, and noted he did not appeal.

While Mr Okafor had referred to long and varied working hours, there was no perceptible relationship between shift times and the incident he was sacked for, Mr McKeown wrote, noting further that the complainant never looked to change his shift times or raised any medical issue with his employer.

Mr Okafor had tried to diminish the seriousness of being at his desk with his eyes closed, but Synergy was reasonably entitled to consider this misconduct justifying dismissal, Mr McKeown wrote.

He ruled Mr Okafors complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 against Synergy Security Solutions to be not well founded.
Kirinyaga  Smallholder tea factories in Kirinyaga have appealed to the Government to find alternative funding for Kenya Tea Development Agency Management Services (KTDA-MS) and similar agencies instead of levying farmers.

Factory directors raised concerns with Section 53 (1) (2) of the Tea Act 2020 which levies farmers one per cent on the net sales value of tea sold.

They said the provision would affect farmers' income negatively and urged the government to relook at the contested clauses in line with its Bottom-up economic approach which empowers the low-income-earning members of the public.

The directors resolved to retain the current status of factory management agreements with KTDA-MS until contested clauses in the Tea Act 2020 are addressed.

Speaking during a meeting with the agency in Sagana, their spokesperson, John Mithamo who is also a KTDA board member for the zone said farmers will suffer if the contested clauses are adopted.

"The provision on governance and direct sale of tea should be among other clauses in the Tea Act that require revision," he said.

Mithamo observed that the agency pays dividends to factories and farmers will lose and may be subjected to unnecessary procedural management of their money if one per cent of their sales went to other parties.

He wondered why it was only tea growers who were being subjected to such levies.

The tea factory directors tasked a select team from Kirinyaga to reexamine the current management agreement with KTDA-MS within seven working days, make the necessary changes and forward to the agency for further engagements.

KTDA Holdings chairman, David Ichoho said the agency paid farmers Sh585 million dividends, being money that was generated by its subsidiaries.

Forty factories from different parts of the country have so far signed management agreements with KTDA-MS which are aimed and improving relationships and ensuring that farmers earn more from their leaf.

A key change in the new management agreements is the reduction of management fee from 2.5 per cent per gross turn-over to 1.5 percent.

Under the reviewed treaty, the agency has introduced key performance indicators to monitor performance on a continuous basis.
A violent criminal who brutally hacked a 76-year-old man to death with an axe in the victims sheltered accommodation has been sentenced to life in prison.

The son of Kwok Ping Cheng told his fathers murderer Oliver Doran today: You wont be playing happy families when the sentence is read out. Now you have pleaded guilty, now you have to pay the price for your crime. You cant escape reality; your children will be asking Where is daddy?  that is your reality.

The court heard that the day after the murder, Doran fled Ireland with his family.

In passing the sentence at the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice David Keane said this was a senseless murder with no motive, and he ruled that he was required to impose the maximum sentence of life imprisonment on Doran.

Doran (24), with an address at Sophia Housing, Cork Street, Dublin, initially pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Cheng (76) at Robinsons Court on the same Dublin street, on a date between April 28 and 29, 2021, and his trial began in January. He subsequently changed his plea to one of guilty.

At todays sentence hearing, Detective Garda Richard Pender gave evidence to prosecuting counsel, Anne-Marie Lawlor SC that Mr Cheng, who was originally from China but had been in Ireland for some time, lived in sheltered accommodation at Robinsons Court, while Doran lived about 100m away.

The trial saw CCTV footage that showed Mr Cheng returning home on April 28, as well as coverage of the rear of his home through which Doran gained entry. The footage showed Doran first entering the apartment at 9.59pm and staying until 11.12pm, before he left and returned to his own home.

He returned to Mr Chengs home at 1.03am on April 29 and remained there for 11 minutes. Mr Chengs body was discovered the following morning by a support worker whose job it was to check up on the residents of the sheltered accommodation.

The jury also heard evidence from pathologist Dr Heidi Okkers, who said that Mr Cheng suffered multiple injuries, including blunt and sharp force trauma, incision wounds and chop wounds. He had multiple lacerations to his scalp and forehead and suffered bruises and abrasions, which were caused by an axe found adjacent to his body.

He had injuries to his forearms and hands and fractures to his forearms, which were defence injuries. He also suffered a fracture of his left mandible, which was caused by the blunt side of the axe.

Dr Okkers said that the amount of blood loss resulted in Mr Chengs death.

Det Gda Pender confirmed that the axe used was brought by Doran from his own home, and DNA matching Dorans was found on the handle.

He said that after the murder, Doran disposed of his clothing, a hammer and a crowbar, and absconded from the country. He returned to Ireland on May 4, 2021, and was arrested on May 5.

He made admissions to the gardai but maintained that he could not recall what had happened as he had taken drink and drugs.

Det Gda Pender said Doran had 98 previous convictions, including thefts, road traffic matters, violent disorder, obstruction of a peace officer, robbery, public order offences, assault, possession of knives, and production of an article.

A victim impact statement was prepared by Mr Chengs son, Jason, and read to the court by Det Gda Pender.

My fathers life was cruelly taken away, and the question I have asked is why? He was an elderly man going about his life. I may never know the answers. Did they have a grievance or a falling out? The fact is a man's life was cut short. He did not deserve to have his life taken away, said Mr Cheng.

Mr Cheng said that Doran had murdered his father in a brutal way and then returned to the scene of the crime. He said that Doran and his family had made their escape the following day, like happy families.

You wont be playing happy families when the sentence is read out. Now you have pleaded guilty, now you have to pay the price for your crime. You cant escape reality; your children will be asking Where is daddy?  that is your reality, said Mr Cheng.

Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC said his client had expressed his deepest sadness and regret for what he had done, but he had an inability to recollect what had happened. He said Doran could only offer his condolences and apologies to Mr Chengs family.

In sentencing, Mr Justice Keane said this was an appalling crime and he offered his condolences to the deceaseds son and family. He said this was a senseless crime, especially as no meaningful motive had been established.

He said that a probation report raised a number of concerns about Doran, including his likely propensity to reoffend, his propensity for violence, his negative peer association and history of addiction, and the lack of structure in his life.

I am required to sentence him to prison for life, said Mr Justice Keane.

Pointing out that Doran fled the country and returned shortly afterwards, the judge commended the gardai for the thoroughness and excellence of their investigation.

Although Doran had gone into custody on May 6, 2021, Mr Justice Keane said that bearing in mind the dreadful circumstances of the case, in which a vulnerable, elderly man in sheltered accommodation had been murdered with no motive, the life sentence would only be backdated to January 17 this year, the date when Doran entered his guilty plea.
The actions of UCC student centre bosses in dismissing a hairdresser without consultation, notice pay or any mention of a redundancy payment were entirely unreasonable and unlawful, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has found.

The tribunal found the student centre had dismissed a woman, whom one of its witnesses had called a valued employee, summarily and without notice and without following any standard practices for a legal termination.

In a decision published this morning, the WRC has upheld two complaints brought under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and the Minimum Notice & Terms of Employment Act 1973 by Tracey Ring against Student Facilities & Services (UCC) DAC, trading as Unisalon at the Student Centre at University College Cork.

The student centres management had denied her complaints and insisted it had paid Ms Ring everything it owed her.

The tribunal heard the complainant went on layoff and got the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS) in March 2020, when the salon was closed on public health grounds due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The WRC heard Ms Ring was told she was not needed immediately when the salon reopened with a skeleton staff in July that year.

Terry Brennan, general manager of student facilities and services at UCC, said he told Ms Ring in September 2020 that the company couldnt guarantee her position.

Questioned on this point, Ms Ring said she was assured theyd keep me updated but said she did not receive a subsequent letter from a company representative in July 2021.

Ms Ring said phoned the salon to inquire further when she realised her TWSS payments had stopped in September 2021, as she said she had received no contact from the company.

She said she was taken aback and vomiting when she found out her job was gone by phoning the salon.

She said her phone had been broken at one point and that she had suffered a bereavement dur ing the period in question.

The adjudicating officer, Lefre de Burgh, questioned the respondent as to why nothing was put in writing in September 2020.

The Workplace Relations Commission. Photo: Stock image

Mr Brennan, who had made pleadings on behalf of the company, said Ms Ring was very difficult to contact.

By August 2021, Mr Brennan said it was clear the salons business had collapsed, with turnover dropping from 76,000 to just 20,000 because of the restrictions.

He said it was clear the business was never going to recover, could only support the employment of two senior stylists, and that it had to lay [Ms Ring] off.

Mr Brennan said the company made a final payment of 469.60 on September 3, 2021, making provision for holiday pay.

Under questioning from the complainants solicitor, he said the decision to end Ms Rings employment wasnt made until I wrote to her in July 2021.

Ms Rings evidence was that she never received the letter.

Mr Brennan said he took the decision after making reasonable attempts to contact Ms Ring and that the management had to act in the interests of the business.

It was put to Mr Brennan that an employee was entitled to a right of appeal in the circumstances.

He replied that Ms Ring had been laid off and not dismissed.

Martin A Harvey & Co Solicitors, the firm representing Ms Ring in the case, said its client had been dismissed without any adherence whatsoever to natural justice and fair procedures.

The respondent simply terminated [her] employment on September 24, 2021 retrospectively, without notice and without any regard for her rights, it submitted.

The law firm said its client denied that a genuine restructuring of the company did exist and said that if it did, she ought to have been notified that her role was at risk, engaged with in a consultation on redundancy considering alternatives and offered an appeal mechanism.

It added that a redundancy payment was never mentioned to Ms Ring, who had worked at the salon since July 2018.

The adjudicating officer noted that Mr Brennan, in his evidence and his submissions on behalf of the company, used the words laid off, let go and terminated interchangeably.

An employer does not have a free hand to act as it pleases. An employer is bound to act within the requirements of the law, irrespective of the circumstances the employer is navigating, wrote the adjudicating officer, Ms de Burgh.

She added that the purpose of paying employers wage subsidies was to maintain the employment relationship.

There are simply no lawful circumstances in which the respondent can treat an employee in the manner in which it treated the complainant. It falls to me to consider whether the dismissal was both substantively and procedurally fair. I find that it was neither, she wrote.

I find that the employers conduct in this instance was entirely unreasonable and is unlawful, she added.

She ordered the employer to pay Ms Ring 1,920 for unfair dismissal and a further 480 as notice pay  a sum totalling 2,400, or 10 weeks pay for the complainant.
The family of a loving dad who was stabbed to death while he tried to jumpstart his car on the way to work has called for justice, saying his killer gave her victim no chance.

Gareth Kelly (38) had never met Christina Anderson (41) before she approached him and stabbed him five times, fatally injuring him.

At a sentencing hearing today Mr Kelly's partner, Maria Murphy, described him as a loving dad with a "cheeky smile" who was adored by his children.

"We didn't lose Gareth, Christina Anderson took him," she said. "She caused us all this pain.

"Our kids will never see their daddy again and he will never see his kids again, never read them stories or watch a movie, get a pizza, have parties or see his kids grow up.

"He will not be there to see his kids make their debs or do their Leaving Cert. He never had a chance to walk any of his daughters down the aisle."

Anderson of Brownsbarn Wood, Kingswood, Dublin, stabbed Mr Kelly five times as he tried to start his car outside her home at about 7am on the morning of February 25, 2020.

She was initially charged with murder and pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. In January this year, more than one month into her trial, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) accepted a plea of guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility due to a mental disorder.

The State accepted that Ms Anderson was experiencing a psychotic episode due to bipolar affective disorder but did not qualify for the full defence of a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act.

Ms Justice Karen O'Connor today heard the first of two sentencing hearings during which members of Mr Kelly's family made statements detailing the impact his killing has had on them and their community.

The judge will hear pleas in mitigation by Anderson's lawyers on May 22, before passing sentence.

In a statement read out today by prosecution barrister Pat McGrath SC, Mr Kelly's mother Noeleen Kelly said there are "no words to explain the loss and heartache I feel right now". Gareth "lived and breathed" for his family and would do anything for anybody, she said.

He had two jobs and worked hard to "give the kids the life they wanted".

She said she watched the CCTV footage, shown during the trial, of her son's last moments. "He smiled at a passerby, not remotely aware of what lay ahead for him, just going to work," she said.

She said she is left forever with the memory of the expression on his face after Anderson stabbed him the first time. "Was he scared, was he frightened? My son lay dying on that pathway between two cars, struggling for his last breath. Why?"

She said the family is living a life sentence with each day bringing pain and sorrow and reminders of what they have lost. Due to the outbreak of Covid shortly after Gareth's death, the family was unable to grieve together and Gareth's father died alone in hospital 14 months after his son "with a broken heart and no answers or justice".

Mr Kelly's sister, Lorraine Kelly, said she felt a lump in her throat, an ache in her heart and tears in her eyes every time she heard her brother referred to in court as "the late" or "the deceased".

"He was my younger brother, one of the most intriguing people I have ever known and he was taken from this earth so horrifically."

He was a great father, she said, and a loving partner to Maria. "He was always the life and soul of a gathering and cherished everything, even when life was not going his way."

She said he embraced every opportunity to enjoy life and deserved to live and make more memories with his family and his children.

"He loved celebrating everything with his children. He made sure he set traditions for his children to embrace life together," she said.

Every car journey with his children turned into a singsong and for his children's birthdays he would wake them up with a birthday song.

"He put passion into everything he did in his life. He was always smiling his cheeky smile with the dimples. He loved life and he was doing it and smashing it. He would laugh at me stressing and tell me to slow down and enjoy life and never let it pass me by."

She said the facts from the trial will be "forever etched on my mind". She will forever remember the footage of her brother holding himself up at the side of the car before being attacked a second time.

"Was he calling for help? I know he was in pain, I know that because of the evidence. Was he frightened? Yes. Was he scared? Yes. I can see his face and the look of confusion about what was happening to him. Seeing him fall to the ground, my brother Gar was in pain and I couldn't do anything. My brother was hurt and I wasn't there to protect him, she said.

She recalled seeing Ms Anderson returning to strike her brother "again and again and again".

She said: "She took my brother and best friend, one of the most precious figures of our family, our community. We had to hear all the horrendous details before she finally put an end to it. She couldn't spare us the details on top of what was already too difficult to comprehend without having to hear all the horrific details."

She finished by saying she hopes justice will "close this aspect of our grief and loss and allow us to focus on Gar, my brother Gar".

Ms Justice O'Connor adjourned the matter until May 22 when she will hear pleas in mitigation from Anderson's defence lawyers.

Following the accepted plea earlier this year, Michael OHiggins SC, for Anderson, said the plea decision was taken after lengthy consideration and appraisal of this case.

He said there were ongoing difficulties on the defence side arising from a report by consultant psychiatrist Professor Harry Kennedy and the decision to plead guilty to manslaughter was informed by those difficulties.

The court has previously heard that Professor Kennedy disagreed with Dr Brenda Wright, a consultant psychiatrist called by the defence, who said that Ms Anderson was suffering from bipolar affective disorder and as a result of her mental disorder she was unable to refrain from stabbing Mr Kelly.

Prof Kennedy, the court heard during cross examination of Dr Wright, had written a report in which he said that Andersons behaviour was better explained by cannabis intoxication. Intoxication cannot be used as a defence under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006.

Anderson was taken into custody at the Dochas women's prison following her arrest and detention in February 2020 but was transferred almost immediately to the Central Mental Hospital. The court heard today that she has remained a patient at the Central Mental Hospital since then.

Opening the trial last December, Mr McGrath told the jury that Mr Kelly had parked overnight in a space belonging to the Anderson home, something that happened from time to time to the annoyance of Ms Anderson. Mr Kelly, who had never met Anderson, was trying to start his car when she approached him and stabbed him before returning to her house. She then returned and stabbed him again.

The court heard from friends and neighbours of Anderson and from her husband Mark Anderson that her behaviour had become increasingly erratic in the days and weeks leading up to the stabbing. In particular, she had become obsessed with what she falsely believed to be a criminal conspiracy among her neighbours involving gardai and senior politicians.

Mark Anderson told the trial that he and his wife were cannabis users and would smoke two to three small joints to relax in the evenings after their children had gone to bed.

Because they were regular users, he said they had a high tolerance and found it relaxing.

From 2017 onwards there were times when Mr Anderson said he noticed that his wifes energy levels and enthusiasm spiked and she would become very eager.

On occasion she complained of feeling depressed and would go to a doctor. She began seeing psychiatrists at the Mary Mercer clinic in 2017. She was prescribed medication and never had any problem taking it.

On February 16, 2020, Mr Anderson travelled to Canada for work. He didnt notice anything wrong with his wife before he left but when he landed back in Dublin on February 23, two days before the stabbing, she seemed to be delusional.

He had never previously seen her act in a paranoid way but she began telling him about a criminal conspiracy involving their neighbours and said she was in fear for herself and the children. She attached some significance to a photograph she had found of Bertie Ahern, the former Taoiseach, and said that their solicitor was going to come to the house with Michael Jackson, the deceased pop star.

The following day, a Monday, she was still delusional but had periods of clear thinking, he said, during which she was aware that she was not well and was willing to go to the psychiatric unit. Mr Anderson called Mary Mercer hoping to bring her in that day but they said they didnt have psychiatric services on a Monday. They agreed to bring her scheduled appointment for the following afternoon forward to 9am.

He couldnt remember if they smoked cannabis that evening but said, its likely, it would have been normal for us.

They went to bed and the next morning Mr Anderson awoke when he heard the house alarm going off followed by a loud bang. He found that the alarm had been pulled off the wall and believed his wife had done it.

He did not know that his wife had stabbed someone until gardai came to the house a short time later.

The defence also called Dr Johann Grundlingh, a toxicologist. He told the trial that the effects of cannabis typically last from one to three hours.

He said that if it is true that Anderson smoked her final cannabis cigarette at about 10pm the previous evening and stabbed Mr Kelly at about 7am, then it is extremely unlikely she would still have been intoxicated with cannabis.
Dr Eamon Martin expressed concern that many young people struggle to find a sense of meaning and purpose

Archbishop Eamon Martin believes the priesthood offers a path that could bring purpose to the lives of young people. Photo: Tony Gavin

The leader of the Catholic Church in Ireland has appealed to school leavers to consider priesthood or religious life.

Archbishop Eamon Martin made his call at the ordination of Fr Carlos Esteban Rojo in St Patricks Cathedral in Armagh yesterday. The new priest is originally from Madrid in Spain. His family left Spain and settled in Ireland in 2010.

Speaking to the Irish Independent after the ceremony, Dr Martin said he would like to see career guidance teachers suggesting the vocation of priesthood, or religious life, as a real choice to young people.

He expressed concern that many young people struggle to find a sense of direction and a sense of meaning and purpose in their lives, adding that they often give way to despondence and despair.

Commending those who help young people to make choices, especially career guidance teachers, he said they know that making a choice about a course after school wasnt just a mechanical thing.

He hoped that some young people leaving school today would consider giving their lives to the church as priests or in religious life.

Maybe not now but maybe in later years, they will remember that someone spoke to them about this as a real choice.

I remember when I was principal of a school, one of the things we did on careers day was invite in some of the local clergy and religious [people] to speak about what it was like for them to make that choice.

However, he acknowledged that life is very different now and there are a lot of other distractions calling on young peoples attention.

Fr Carlos began his studies for the priesthood in the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Dundalk in 2013 and he also studied at the national seminary in Maynooth.

The ordination ceremony was attended by his father Fulgencio. Sadly, his mother died shortly after the family settled in Ireland 13 years ago. He has two brothers and four sisters.

His sister, Caridad, is a contemplative nun with the Little Sisters of the Lamb in Rome. She travelled to Armagh for the ceremony.

Fr Carlos (40) worked in parishes in Dundalk, Keady and Newry ahead of his ordination and he also spent time on mission in South Africa and in Sardinia.

While numbers at the national seminary in Maynooth have plunged to 20 seminarians, the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Dundalk, which was established in 2012 to form priests for the Neocatechumenal Way in Ireland, has now seen five men ordained to serve in the Irish church in recent years.

Fifteen men from six countries (Croatia, Italy, Malta, Poland, Spain and the US) are currently studying for the priesthood at the seminary.

A survey published by the Association of Catholic Priests last November showed that a quarter of all priests currently serving in the Irish church are set to retire over the next 15 years.
it was a long time ago when the reserve was a haven for golden plover and sky larks

Can you imagine spotting a nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus), snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus),glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus ) or an avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta) on Dublins doorstep? Or encountering five species of bunting, sandpipers, swans, geese and ducks on getting off your bicycle, or stepping down from a vehicle belonging to the Dublin United Tramways Company?

A tram! Yes, it was a long time ago when that wonderful sanctuary of wild life, North Bull Island which stretches from Dollymount to Sutton and is just four miles from the city centre, was such a haven for golden plover and sky larks ascending, or daylights dauphin, dapple-drawn falcon rung upon the rein of a wimpling wing  to quote poet Gerard Manley Hopkins my heart in hiding, stirred for a bird.

I glimpsed a nightjar in flight in Portugal (I think) and I once heard of a birder here setting out to watch for one (no report). I have watched larks ascending and descending in glorious song on North Bull Island rising from grassy tussocks. Ive also seen hovering kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) spotting mammalian prey scurrying among exposed rocks scoured by high tides. An incubating female bird needs about 20 meals a day. And then there are dogs being walked along the causeway, or unleashed and scenting freely among dunes and grass and sand, a time of carefree rapture for them  but no bird will rest, no nest-sitter remain undisturbed.

Over many years in this slot, I have given vent to feelings about unchecked dogs on their happy adventuring in special places like North Bull Island, their masters in parked cars listening to the radio or reading the Sunday papers, their charges slipping off to roam at will until the motorist may also bestir to wander in the seashore breeze. Birds have flown and there are no hares now on the island. I once met a man who spoke of training his coursing greyhound there in the evenings.

Dublin City Council recently announced a new visitor access management plan for the island which requires all dogs to be on a lead in the dunes and designates the salt marsh/northern part of the island out of bounds.

Dogs will not be totally banned from the strand, having access to a designated area outside swimming season and hours. Zones will be marked and colour-coded red, blue and green  but all this is voluntary, the council seeking to promote responsible behaviour, fully expecting dog lovers to understand the need, etc etc.

I wish the venture every success: two million people annually enjoy this special place. But voluntary restrictions are not enough. Dogs should be totally banned and peoples movements restricted to causeway walking and sea strand access. No cars should be allowed. Park elsewhere and walk, or bring your bike

Yes, the nightjar bird is a secretive, mysterious summer visitor (very few arrive here) with a loud, churring song which starts at nightfall and goes on for hours. It is also known as a goatsucker in parts of Europe with wonderful camouflage to remain hidden on the ground or along tree branches  but not enough for dogs, which have 50 more scent receptors than humans.
Only one in four people believe Mary Lou McDonald's claim regarding Jonathan Dowdall

Historic ceremonies such as yesterdays coronation of King Charles III may look anachronistic in this day and age; but in their symbolism and pomp, they offer nations the chance to come together and rediscover a common identity.

How long any coronation effect will last is another matter. The UK is increasingly ill at ease with itself, unsure of its place in the world. An anointed sovereign is unlikely to be sufficiently inclusive to change that.

In recent years, Irish people have, justifiably, been able to pride themselves on avoiding the bitter divisions blighting their neighbours, and relishing instead their place as a prosperous, stable nation inside the European Union.

The poll shows a country which is more than ever at odds over its future direction

People may have traditionally voted for different political parties, but by and large they shared a vision of what Ireland meant to them.

What todays Sunday Independentpoll confirms again is a country which is more than ever at odds over its future direction.

There are institutions which still command widespread loyalty. The President remains a unifying figure.

Even when he speaks out on controversial issues  such as his opposition to an obsession with economic growth at a cost to the environment  he commands huge support.

When it comes to the question of which option voters would prefer after the next election if forced to make a choice  a continuation of the present coalition of Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and the Greens, or a Sinn Fein-led government excluding the two main parties who between them have governed Ireland since independence  there is, of course, far less common ground.

The country is split almost exactly down the middle on this question, with a new and untested government coming out narrowly ahead.

Only one in four people believe Mary Lou McDonald's claim regarding Jonathan Dowdall

If it wasnt for a deep suspicion of Sinn Fein which lingers in large swathes of the electorate, the chances are that the thirst for sweeping change would be even stronger.

Only one in four of those polled believe the partys leader and prospective taoiseach, Mary Lou McDonald, when she insists that neither she nor Sinn Fein were aware that Jonathan Dowdall had any links to criminality when he joined the party and ran as a candidate.

Dowdall is now serving a four-year sentence after pleading guilty to facilitating the 2016 Regency Hotel murder of David Byrne.

These divisions represent radically different visions of where Ireland should be going

Many are so dissatisfied with the status quo that theyre willing to give a chance to those they believe to be lying to them, about a subject of the highest and most troubling seriousness.

Four in ten also say they either would or might give their number one preference at the next election to candidates standing under the banner of a new rural party, which does not even exist as yet and therefore has no policy platform.

These divisions in the country are no longer between mere differences of priority.

They represent radically different visions of where Ireland should be going.

Discord may be inevitable, given the scale of the global challenges; but we still need common goals and symbols around which to unite.

What those should be remains a daunting challenge for politicians of all stripes.

We dont have crowns and thrones to bring us together. Its hearts and minds our elected representatives must win to earn our continued loyalty.
You would be hard pushed to find an Irish person on this planet who doesnt have a good grasp of the lyrics to The Fields of Athenry.

The story of a poor Irish convict and how he stole Trevelyans corn is synonymous with the atrocities that befell the Catholic Irish population during the Irish Famine.

Best of the Indo Daily: The Great Hunger, 'Trevelyan's Corn', and making amends for the Irish Famine

Now, a UK group Heir of Slavery  descendants of people who profited off the slave trade and who want to atone and compensate families whose loved ones were brutally stolen and sold as slaves over a 250-year-period  are also recognising Trevelyans treatment of the Irish.

Presenter Siobhan Maguire is joined by Irish Independent political correspondent, John Downing, to hear more.
A FORMER senior audit partner at financial services giant Deloitte has lost an appeal against a High Court ruling that he can be criminally prosecuted for alleged tax offences, despite arguing he had a legitimate expectation that he would not be prosecuted.

In May of last year, the High Court ruled that Brian Murphy, a qualified accountant and former audit partner with the finance firm Deloitte who brought proceedings against the Revenue Commissioners and the Director of Public Prosecutions, could be prosecuted.

In February 2014, the DPP issued a summons against Mr Murphy in relation to an alleged offence concerning a VAT refund claim on behalf of a company of which Mr Murphy had been a director.

In October 2015, the DPP further applied to have a criminal summons issued against Mr Murphy in relation to alleged offences regarding tax returns between 2008 and 2012.

Mr Murphy, of Carrigaline, Co Cork denies any criminal wrongdoing.

Mr Murphy claimed that a criminal prosecution would breach the terms of an agreement between him and Revenue in August 2015 in the context of certain civil proceedings which he claims meant that he would avoid prosecution if he adhered to a settlement payment plan.

Mr Murphy had further relied on certain oral representations he claimed were made to him on behalf of a legal executive working for solicitors acting for Revenue that he would not be prosecuted.

The appellant claimed his prosecution would amount to a breach of his legitimate expectation.

Legitimate expectation is a legal principle which may apply where a public body leads a person to believe a particular state of affairs to be undertaken and that person acts to his detriment in reliance on their representation.

Dismissing the 2022 application Mr Justice Garrett Simons said Mr Murphy had not established the grounds for his claim of the breach of his legitimate expectation.

Mr Justice Simons said the agreement between Revenue and Mr Murphy was reached in 2015 following a separate decision in 2014 made by the DPP to issue a criminal summons against him.

That summons related to an alleged offence concerning a VAT refund claim on behalf of a company of which Mr Murphy had been a director.

Mr Murphy then entered into talks with Revenue to also discharge other unrelated arrears of tax before coming to an agreement on payments in August 2015.

He undertook to make monthly payments of 4,000 from August 2015 to December 2018 to settle the outstanding taxes. In addition, Mr Murphy offered to make annual lump sum payments ranging between 20,000 and 75,000.

The judge found that the 2015 agreement did not amount to a representation that the DPP would not pursue criminal proceedings against the appellant.

Mr Justice Simons said that if there was an element in the agreement to prevent criminal prosecution it was inconceivable that this would not have been expressly recorded in its terms.

Mr Murphy appealed and his lawyers submitted that the judge did not adequately analyse a series of communications between Revenue and Mr Murphy before the signing of the settlement.

At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice George Birmingham said Mr Murphy had been anxious to enter into a settlement agreement with Revenue that could allow him to keep working in order to make his payments but to also enter into a highly desirable agreement that would preclude criminal proceedings already instituted or any further proceedings.

On the other hand, the position of the Revenue Commissioners was that they were not going to commit themselves to non-prosecution or to preclude other means of enforcement, said Mr Justice Birmingham.

The judge said that Revenue had articulated clearly to Mr Murphy that their position would be without prejudice to any other enforcement action or prosecution and had stated that this position be clearly stated throughout the settlement document.

However, the draft agreement furnished to Mr Murphy had no mention of a without prejudice clause. It was silent on the issue, said Mr Justice Birmingham. Mr Murphy then signed the document and claimed that the absence of any mention of prosecution meant he had achieved his objective based on previous discussions with Revenue.

I am quite unable to conclude that the absence of a without prejudice clause amounts to an unambiguous and unequivocal representation to the effect that there would be no prosecutions, said the judge.

Mr Justice Birmingham said that if Mr Murphys position regarding any clause was correct then the prosecution, which had already been launched, would be halted and that the investigation which was at an advanced stage, would also be halted.

The judge said that if the appellant was correct then it would have meant that even if underpayment of tax during other years, or other irregularities came to light, then enforcement would be prohibited.

I am bound to say that I regard this as an extraordinary proposition. I cannot believe there was any representation to that effect and most certainly I cannot believe there was any representation that was unambiguous and unequivocal, said the judge, who stressed that the document was silent on the matter.

Nobody who was facing a prosecution and then found that threat lifted would allow the appearance of the threat to remain in place for a day longer than necessary, he said, adding that Mr Murphy would have moved immediately to have them struck out.

Mr Justice Birmingham said the trial judge properly assessed the case and he was fully entitled to reject the claim, whether formulated in terms of legitimate expectation, or contract, or some cross between the two.

Mr Justice Birmingham then dismissed the appeal.
A banned pensioner spotted behind the wheel by an off-duty sergeant was still driving because he needed to get to work, a court heard.

Gerard Shortt (75) had fallen on very hard times in recent months, and was effectively homeless, having lost his rented home in Dublin following the lifting of the eviction ban.

Judge Gerard Jones imposed a one-month sentence which he suspended for two years and disqualified Shortt from driving for 20 years.

The defendant, with a previous address at Glenville Way in Clonsilla, admitted driving without insurance or a driving licence at Roselawn Road in Castleknock on December 22, 2021.

Sergeant Maria Callaghan told Blanchardstown District Court that a now retired sergeant, who was off duty at the time, spotted the defendant driving an Opel Combo van.

Sgt Callaghan said the off-duty officer knew Shortt was disqualified at the time. The defendant was subsequently asked to produce his insurance documents but failed to do so.

The court heard Shortt had 47 previous convictions, including 10 for uninsured driving. Defence solicitor Fiona Brennan said Shortt had fallen on very hard times.

Ms Brennan said the defendant lost his rented house in Dublin following the lifting of the eviction ban earlier this year, and was now living with a friend outside Dublin.

In relation to this incident, Ms Brennan said Shortt was a self-employed man and continued to drive because he needed to work.

He no longer has the vehicle and is no longer driving, Ms Brennan added.
Stephaine Doherty with some costumed characters at the Cahersiveen Darkness into Light walk. Photo by Christy Riordan.

The Cahersiveen Darkness into Light Organising Committee. Front (from left): Aoife Cournane, Sarah Cournane; Back (from left): Denis Daly, Brendan Cournane, Jackie Cournane, Catherine Cournane and Eileen Cournane. Photo by Christy Riordan.

Pictured at the Darkness into Light event in Killarney were Marie Carroll and Sean Kelly. Mandatory Credit INPHO/Konrad Paprocki.   INPHO/Konrad Paprocki

Ready for road for at Darkness into Light in Killorglin were Mary Fenton, Carmel Foley and Joanne Ryan. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Ella-Kate and Finola Halpin at the Darkness into Light walk in Killorglin on Saturday morning last. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Siobhan and Patch O'Sullivan with Marie O'Connor and Shane Molloy at the Killorglin Darkness into Light walk. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Pictured at the Darkness into Light walk in Killorglin were Chloe Doona, Patrick Sheehan and Michelle Doona. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Caroline Walsh and Nicole Quirke at the Darkness into Light walk in Glenbeigh on Saturday morning last. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Pictured into the Darkness into Light walk in Glenbeigh were Breda Mulryan, Breda Coffey and Josephine O'Sullivan. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Lorraine, Alyssa, Kayleigh and Sarah Gordon pictured after taking part in the Darkness into Light walk in Glenbeigh.

Pictured at the Darkness into Light walk in Cromane were from l-r: Sinead Galvin, Geraldine Galvin, Kaylynn Foley, Laura Ahern, Pat and Rionn Foley and Holly the bichon frise. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Pictured at the Darkness into Light walk in Cromane were Patricia Wicke and Anita Webber. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Ready for the road ahead for Darkness into Light in Cromane on Saturday morning were Annette McCready-Horgan, Danneka Horgan, Edie ansd Olivia Corkery, Sandra and Leah Sheehan. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Pictured at the Darkness into Light in Cromane were Gerry Knightly, Pauline Healy, Tony and Theresa O'Gorman and Pat Healy. Photo by Michael G Kenny.

Maeve and Mary O'Connor with Sinead and Amy Moriarty at the Darkness Into Light charity walk in Dingle. Photo by Manuela Dei Grandi.

Roz, John and Amy Hubbard with Darah Hanna at the Darkness Into Light charity walk in Dingle. Photo by Manuela Dei Grandi.

Eddie Leahy and Breda Duggan at the start of the Darkness Into Light charity walk in Dingle. Photo by Manuela Dei Grandi.

Alive Matusova with Shane and Kate Quirke at the start of Darkness Into Light charity walk in Dingle. Photo by Manuela Dei Grandi.

Danny and Julitte Looney from Tralee pictured at Tralee Bay Wetlands in the early hours of Saturday morning as they took part in the Tralee 'Darkness into Light' walk. Photo by Domnick Walsh.

Helena Shanahan, Helena Costello and Veronica O'Brien from Tralee pictured at the Tralee 'Darkness into Light' walk on Saturday morning. Photo by Domnick Walsh.

Jennifer Looney, Leo O'Connor and Mags Looney pictured showing their support for Pieta's 'Darkness into Light' fundraising walk in Tralee on Saturday morning. Photo by Domnick Walsh.

Kerry was alive in the early hours of Saturday with the sounds of thousands of people coming together in locations all across the county as they walked from darkness into light to help raise vital funds for the suicide prevention charity, Pieta House.

The annual Darkness Into Light fundraiser and awareness initiative began at daybreak, approximately 4.15am, at eight different locations including Caherdaniel, Tarbert, Dingle, Glenbeigh, Kenmare, Cahersiveen, Tralee and Killarney.

The Killarney event  Nathans Walk, named in honour of 14-year-old Nathan OCarroll, who died by suicide in 2007  welcomed a typically huge gathering, despite less-than-favourable weather conditions.

Nathans mother, Marie, said approximately 3,000 to 3,500 people attended, numbers which reflect the fact this is the longest-running Darkness Into Light event outside of Dublin.

It was absolutely brilliant, only that it teemed down, Marie told The Kerryman. We were very pleased, and it was really lovely.

We want to thank everyone who took part and supported us, including main sponsors Electric Ireland, the Sheahan group, Dalys SuperValu, Killarney Racecourse, the National Park and, of course, all out volunteers.

Marie also thanked MC Brendan Fuller and video man Dan Devane for their part in making it the special occasion it was.

In Dingle, approximately 250 people attended this years Darkness Into Light event which, as usual, departed from Dingle Marina before dawn, following an address by Ciaran O Murchu.

Participants completed a counter-clockwise loop around Dingle town, taking a left at Ospideal Pobal Chorca Dhuibhne and taking the new road between the Spa Road and Goat Street.

After travelling on to Milltown Bridge and back to the Marina, the walkers did a lap of the Marina walk to complete the five kilometres, after which they enjoyed teas, coffees, and even a breakfast roll.

In Tralee, an approximate 2,000 people came out to show their support and solidarity with the charity and Pat Turner, one of the Darkness into Light committee members alongside Martin Brosnan  both of whom who have lost children to suicide  told The Kerryman that the event on Saturday went brilliant and that its important that people continue to support such a vital, life-saving charity such as Pieta.

"It was absolutely brilliant. I would say we had over the 2,000 mark. I cant be sure of the proper number but thats what we reckon anyway. It was lovely weather too thankfully, we got very lucky, she said, adding there was an awful shower of rain at around 3am as they were setting up down at the Wetlands but thankfully no more after that.

As parents who have both lost children to suicide, Pat and Martin are tragically well-placed to comment on the vital need for suicide prevention services such as Pieta House in the local community.

Myself and Martin Brosnan, we have both lost sons to suicide so this walk and this issue means an awful lot to us. Martin lost his two sons within seven months of each other 25 years ago and then I lost my boy 14 years ago. There was no Pieta House in Tralee when Paul [Pats son] needed it but thankfully one was set up here. Thats why we do this walk because we know how important it is to have a service like Pieta House in the county, she said.

See all the photos from the walks all around the county in the photo gallery above...
MEDIA owners in Tanzania have been called upon to invest in digital technology, innovation and adopt relevant business models to increase revenues.

Concurrently, they should invest in audience surveys so that they can use data to make conversations with advertisers.

The call is part of the resolutions from the national conference as part of the 30th Anniversary of the Commemoration for the World Press Freedom Day organised by UNESCO and other stakeholders in Zanzibar from May 1st to 3rd, 2023 an event which was graced by Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Mwinyi.

Contributing during the session on State of Innovation and Media and Viability in East Africa, Bakari Machumu who is Mwananchi Limited CEO said it is easier for someone in a company to advertise in a space backed with data.

"Media houses must move to training and marketing strategy. More emphasis should be on media leadership and innovation among editors and journalists where they must evolve beyond journalistic skills to embrace the business side of things. They must have an entrepreneurial mindset as well, said the CEO.

For her part, Rose Haji Mwalimu a scribe and TAMWA founding member, called upon the need to conduct regular in-house training in media houses as well as an orientation programme for newcomers for scribes to undertake their roles ethically and responsibly.

Speaking during her opening remarks, TAMWA Chairperson Joyce Shebe said as a country the media may have achieved a lot but mentioned some of the challenges as the little voices of women sources in the media calling upon scribes to change the narratives.

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For his part, Salim Salim from Zanzibar said there was poor reading culture by youths where even young journalists would not know important development issues.

Among other resolutions, media owners have also been called to establish fact checking desks to curb hate speech, fake news, misinformation and disinformation and utilise the public trust to survive during this emerging digital era.

According to most discussants, accurate information is the only way to differentiate oneself to what is called citizen journalism where every person can take a photo and share without verification.

The national conference under the global theme Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a Driver for All Other Human Rights brought together more than 300 delegates comprising government, the United Nations, development partners, journalists, online and offline media, civil society and human rights defenders, research and academia for thematic discussions in pre-events and side meetings organised.
The Gaeltacht Department has assured that the interests of both Kerrys Gaeltachtai will be brought to the attention of the Udaras na Gaeltachta board when members will be directly elected for the first time since 2005, but Sinn Fein TD Pa Daly has lashed out at a system he said would, effectively, leave South Kerrys Uibh Rathach Gaeltacht without elected representation.

The public last directly elected members to the Udaras board in 2005, at a time when Kerry had two board seats. A nomination/selection process replaced these elections in 2012 and has remained in use since.

The Department last year announced, however, that 10 of the 16 board members will be elected when the public vote is restored, subject to approval of proposed legislation. Each of the seven counties which have a Gaeltacht, including Kerry, will be given one seat, apart from Donegal and Galway, which will have two and three seats respectively. The elections are expected to take place alongside local and European elections next year, and residents within the countrys 26 Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas can vote.

Sinn Fein had campaigned for a public vote to be restored, but Deputy Daly said proposed reforms are a long way from perfect.

Thanks to community activism, and effective opposition from Sinn Fein tabling Bills in the Dail and Seanad to restore democratic elections, the Government has finally given in and agreed to bring them back, but the model proposed is a step backwards compared with previous elections, Deputy Daly stated. Kerrys seat allocation looks set to drop from the two elected reps the county had in 2005 to just one in next years elections, he said, adding that elected Kerry representatives would make up six per cent of the board, even though nearly 10 per cent of the national Gaeltacht population lives in Kerry.

The injustice is especially evident for the Uibh Rathach Gaeltacht in South Kerry, which is totally separated geographically from the rest of Kerrys Gaeltacht in Corca Dhuibhne, which has a much larger population and would dominate in elections for Kerrys one seat. This would leave South Kerry with no representation despite having a population of 1,808, while similar sized Gaeltacht communities in Waterford (1,816) and Meath (1,857) would have one seat each.

Sinn Fein has put forward a system that would guarantee each distinct Gaeltacht area at least one elected representative, with each Gaeltacht county other than Galway receiving one top-up seat. Kerry would have three seats under such a system: effectively two for Corca Dhuibhne, one for Uibh Rathach.

A Department response to The Kerryman pointed out that Kerry has one seat currently and would retain this seat at the next election.

The proposed legislation provides for a board to be appointed both through direct elections and by way of a public competition administered by the Public Appointments Service, a Department spokesperson said. It also provides for the establishment of statutory regional committees as a vehicle for board members to engage regularly with Gaeltacht communities, thus ensuring that the interests of all 26 Gaeltacht Language Planning Areas are brought to the attention of the board.

The General Scheme of the Bill is currently undergoing pre-legislative scrutiny by Coiste na Gaeilge, na Gaeltachta agus Phobal Labhartha na Gaeilge. The Committees report is awaited by the Department. Any recommendations contained therein will be considered by the Department.
Online video shows Fr Sean Sheehy taking part in protest over teaching of explicit sex education in primary schools.

Gardai had to be called to remove controversial priest Fr Sean Sheehy and a group of protesters from the constituency office of Education Minister Norma Foley at a recent rally in Tralee.
County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Training Provider of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Therese O'Connor from County Wexford Chamber Skillnet sponsor, Fiona and Michael Gainford from Gainford Academy winner and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Employee of the year winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Michelle Busher from Kent Stainless sponsor, Monica Byrne from the Alzheimer society of Ireland winner, Mary Conrot Thoms and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Food and Beverage Producer of the Year Award winners. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, John Walsh from Irish Country Meats sponsor, Judith and Nicholas Dunne from Killowen farm winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Operational Excellence Award winners McGrath Quantity Surveyors. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Liam Hore from Water Technologies sponsor, John Casey and Ronan McGrath from McGrath Quantity surveyors winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Business of the Year award (20-50 employees) winners. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Josephine O'Connor from Scurri sponsor, Mark Winkle and Alice Cullen from The Apex winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Ambassador of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Paddy Berry winner, Liam Anthony Griffen from Monart Destination Spa sponsor and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Tourism provider of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, John Neville from Zurich sponsor, Laura McGlynn and Robert Miller from Talbot Hotel winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Outstanding Contribution to the community award of the year winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Darragh Clifford from People Newspapers sponsor, Elizabeth Whyte and Rosemary Hartigan from Wexford Arts Centre winner and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Start Up Business of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Breege Cosgrave from Local Enterprise Office sponsor, Kevin Harte and Sean Kehoe from Machinelab winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Lifetime Achievement Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Noel Nolan from Nolan Group winners, Joe O'Brien manager Clayton Whites hotel sponsor, John Nolan from Nolan Group winners and Chamber president Brendan Crowley speaking. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Excellence in International Tracde award winners. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Tom O'Mahoney and Doireann O'Brien from Medentech winners, Glen Carr from Roslare Europort sponsor, and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Family Business of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Pat Bevan from Reynears Aluminium sponsor, Richie, Trudie and Michael Power from Trudies Kitchen winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Hospitality provider of the year Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Barbara Dunbar from Permanent TSB sponsor, Paul and Ewina Hynes from La Cote restaurant winners, Niall Doyle from Permanent TSB sponsor, and Chamber president Brendan Crowley speaking. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Excellence in Retail Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Murt Joyce from Joyce Expert sponsor, Barbara and John Kehoe from School Books Irleand The Treasury winners and Chamber president Brendan Crowley. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Service Provider of the year winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Jasmine Karney from Azets Ireland sponsor, Ann O'Connor and Emma Klaasen from Secret Valley Wildlife park winner and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Business of the year (1-20 employees) Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Kevin Frewem from Danome Nutricia sponsor, Hugh Kenny and Yvonne Furness from Coatex winners and Chamber president Brendan Crowley speaking. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Business of the Year Award (50+ employees) of the year award winner. From left; Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Billy Sweetman from PWC sponsor, Michelle Busher and Michael Holton from Kent Stainless winners and Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Online Business & Digital Marketing Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Maree Lyng AIB hub manager sponsor, Eoin O'Connor and Denise McGrath winners and Chamber president Brendan Crowley. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Excellence in Sustainablility Award winners. From left; Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Ed Tobin from Slaney Farms Produce winners, Lorene Crowley from Wexford Bus sponsor, John Stafford from Slaney Farms Produce winners and Chamber president Brendan Crowley speaking. Photo; Mary Browne

County Wexford chamber of Commerce Business Awards in the Clayton White's hotel in Wexford. Over all Business of the of the Year Award winners Killowen Farm with Chamber president Brendan Crowley, Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, Cathaoirleach George Lawlor from Wexford County Council sponsor and Neil Delamere MC. Photo; Mary Browne

The County Wexford Chamber Business awards took place on Friday, May 5, in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford town. It was a sold-out event with almost 500 guests in attendance at the stylish black-tie event, with comedian Neil Delamere acting as MC on the night.

There were 19 different category winners announced on the night, with Killowen Farm from Enniscorthy emerging as the Overall Business of the Year.

CEO Emma Dunphy said: The County Wexford Business awards celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our business community. It is a wonderful opportunity for any company to share how they have excelled, innovated, overcome challenges, and contributed to our thriving business region.

We are celebrating the enthusiasm of over 240 applications and the achievements of 100 shortlisted businesses. The event certainly raised the whole profile of County Wexford and injects pride and confidence amongst businesses and employees, from the start-up to scaling-up industry, from sole traders to multinationals.

This really shows us that this is the most important business awards programme across our region. It was a special privilege to recognise the best of County Wexford Businesses on Friday and a huge Congratulations to all of our 2023 winners.

President of County Wexford Chamber, Brendan Crowley said: From the get-go, from a County Chamber perspective, it was brilliant to witness the passion and competitiveness demonstrated by so many entrants from across our countys various business sectors.

On the night, the energy and positivity were palpable in the room where almost 500 guests enjoyed a night to celebrate the success of businesses, large and small. On a personal level, it brought home to me how privileged I am to be President of such an innovative and progressive County Chamber at this time. County Wexford Chamber connects, supports, and represents 320 member businesses that employ 20,000 people across the county.

Full list of winners

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (1-20 Employees)

Sponsor: Danone Nutricia, Wexford

WINNER: Coatek

RUNNER-UP: Harte Outdoor Lighting

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (20-50 Employees)

Sponsor: Scurri

WINNER: The Apex

RUNNER-UP: K&K Windows Ltd

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (50+ Employees)

Sponsor: PwC

WINNER: Kent Stainless

RUNNER-UP: Celtic Linen

County Wexford Employee of the Year Award

Sponsor: Kent Stainless

WINNER: Monica Byrne - Alzheimer Society of Ireland

RUNNER-UP: John Casey - McGrath Quantity Surveyors

County Wexford Excellence in International Trade Award

Sponsor: Rosslare Europort

WINNER: Kersia-Group Medentech

RUNNER-UP: Niall M Byrne Architects Ltd

County Wexford Excellence in Retail Award

Sponsor: Joyces Expert, Wexford

WINNER: School Books Ireland/The Treasury

RUNNER-UP: Ferrybank Motors

County Wexford Excellence in Sustainability Award

Sponsor: Wexford Bus

WINNER: Slaney Farms Produce Ltd

RUNNER-UP: Maldron Hotel Wexford

County Wexford Family Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Reynaers Aluminium

WINNER: Trudies Kitchen Ltd

RUNNER-UP: Natural Health Store

County Wexford Food and Beverage Producer of the Year Award

Sponsor: Irish Country Meats

WINNER: Killowen Farm

RUNNER-UP: Stafford Irish Spirits

County Wexford Hospitality Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Permanent tsb

WINNER: La Cote Restaurant & The Cheeky Cod

RUNNER-UP: Talbot Hotel Wexford

County Wexford Online Business & Digital Marketing Award

Sponsor: AIB BANK

WINNER: Eoin OConnor

RUNNER-UP: Candy Boutique

County Wexford Operational Excellence Award

Sponsor: Waters Technologies

WINNER: McGrath Quantity Surveyors

RUNNER-UP: Kersia-Group Medentech

County Wexford Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award

Sponsor: People News

WINNER: Wexford Arts Centre

RUNNER-UP: Altura Credit Union Ltd

County Wexford Service Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Azets Ireland

WINNER: Secret Valley Wildlife Park

RUNNER-UP: Guardian Fire & Safety

County Wexford Start-Up Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Local Enterprise Office Wexford

WINNER: Machinelab Ltd

RUNNER-UP: MK Aesthetics

County Wexford Tourism Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Zurich

WINNER: Talbot Hotel Wexford

RUNNER-UP: Hook Lighthouse (Hook Heritage CLG)

County Wexford Training Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: County Wexford Chamber Skillnet

WINNER: Gainfort Academy

RUNNER-UP: Sensible Safety Ltd

County Wexford Ambassador of the Year Award

Sponsor: Monart Destination Spa

WINNER: Paddy Berry

County Wexford Lifetime Achievement Award

Sponsor: Clayton Whites Hotel

WINNER: The Nolan Group

County Wexford Overall Business of the Year

Sponsor: Wexford County Council

WINNER: Killowen Farm
Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Nancy Smyth addressing members of the Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council in the Chamber on Tuesday pictured with Cllr Donal Kenny (Cathaoirleach, Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District) and Liz Hore (Director of Services, Wexford County Council). Pic: Jim Campbell

Trade, Ireland-Canada connections and film opportunities were some of the topics up for discussion when Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Nancy Smyth paid a visit to Gorey.

The Ambassador, who was invited to Gorey by Senator Malcolm Byrne, was in north Wexford to explore ways to strengthen links between Ireland and Canada. Her first stop of the day was Gorey Community School, where she had an engaging discussion with the student council and students in the sixth year Politics and Society class.

The Ambassador had a very busy day but she included Gorey Community School in her schedule and we were delighted to welcome her here. The visit was a big success. It was absolutely lovely. She was so natural and such an easy person to speak to, said Principal Michael Finn.

We had the student council convene. They are very active. They all have their places on the council due to a hard-fought democratic election process. Anyone on it is voted in by other students. The Ambassador was fascinated by the democracy of the establishment of the student council.

Students from the Politics and Society class also had the opportunity to speak with her about their political interests and what they hope to pursue once they finish secondary school.

She spoke about herself to the students as well and I think the point that had the most significant impact was the fact that her own grandmother emigrated from Donegal to Canada and theres something magical about her returning.

The Ambassador also spent some time discussing the film industry in Wexford with John Gleeson of Tara Studios and representatives of Screen Wexford. In their meeting, they discussed ways to further develop Irish Canadian co-productions in the film, television and creative industries. Tara Studios is set to commence construction of the largest film and TV studios in Ireland toward the end of this year at Borleigh Manor, just North of Gorey.

There exists already significant levels of cooperation in producing film and TV series between Ireland and Canada. We talked about how that could be enhanced; the financing and tax structures and how we could attract more Canadian companies to come film here. Im really excited about the potential of Tara Studios and having Canadian partners will be a huge advantage, said Senator Byrne following the meeting.

The Ambassador also paid visits to The Hatch Lab and IWP Pallets at Wells to explore how further trade links between Wexford and Canada could be developed. To conclude her visit, Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Councillor Donal Kenny hosted a civic welcome at the Council Offices in Gorey. He presented the Ambassador with a hand-crafted bowl carved by local artist, Robert OConnor. Following this formal welcome, members of the public were invited to join the Ambassador for an informal discussion in Gorey library about connections between Ireland and Canada.
For the first time in its history the Church of Irelands General Synod (annual conference) will take place in Co Wexford as it comes to Clayton Whites Hotel from Friday, May 12 to Saturday, May 13. This will be the third meeting of the 52nd General Synod, it first met in 1871 in Dublin following the disestablishment of the Church of Ireland (COI), and in recent years General Synod has met in several different towns and cities around the island of Ireland.

The primary purpose of the Synod is to enact legislation for the whole COI. Bills, which are proposals for legislation, are considered and become Acts or Statutes if approved. Less formal proposals are submitted as motions which, if approved, become resolutions. The Synod also receives reports from various committees and boards, which are debated by the members.

The event will begin on the Friday at 11 a.m. with a speech by Archbishop John McDowell, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland.

Thereafter, from 1-2 p.m., the Mothers Union will host Changing the Story, an event which will focus on changing the story of gender-based violence and domestic abuse and working towards its ending. June Butler (All Ireland President) and Jacqui Armstrong (Mothers Union Advocate on Gender-Based Violence) will be joined by Bishop Andrew Forster and Lydia Monds (from the Churchs Ministry of Healing). Admission is free and all donations will towards lunch expenses and the work of Mothers Union in highlighting domestic abuse and gender-based violence. If you wish to attend, please email muchangingthestory@gmail.com

At 3 p.m. the Board of Education report will be discussed with a particular focus on the significant financial difficulties facing schools, and the new legislation regarding special education needs and inclusion, and marks the 50th anniversary of comprehensive schools.

On the Saturday morning at 11 a.m. a motion on the impact of the Troubles will be put forward. It reads: The General Synod of the Church of Ireland requests the Church and Society Commission to explore, and if necessary recommend and/or draft resources which will enable Parishes to engage pastorally with, and care for, individuals and communities that are still deeply affected by trauma from the Troubles and report back to General Synod their findings no later than General Synod 2024.

At 12.15 p.m. young people from the Lighten Our Darkness group, from Mullingar Union of Parishes, will make a special dramatic presentation to encourage greater care for creation. The presentation will be introduced by Bishop Pat Storey. The last event will see a motion on racism brought to the Synod at 4 p.m. in the hotel's main hall.

That the General Synod acknowledges the impact of anti-refugee and migrant hatred in our communities and requests the Honorary Secretaries to write to Diocesan Councils on behalf of the Primate's Ethnic Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Justice Reference Group seeking suggestions regarding ways in which the Church can counter the language of anti-refugee and migrant hatred at the local level and communicate a strong message of Christian welcome to all.

For further information on the General Synod visit https://www.ireland.anglican.org/synod/2023/welcome
All Smiles - Members of Wexford Drama Group including Best Actor winner Andy Doyle at the All-Ireland Drama Festival finals in Athlone.

Enniscorthy drama stalwart Andy Doyle picked up the coveted Best Actor award at the RTE All-Ireland Drama Festival in Athlone at the weekend for his leading role in The Father with Wexford Drama Group who also took home the prestigious Abbey Theatre Award which will see them presenting the production on the Peacock stage of the national theatre for four nights over the June bank holiday weekend.

Retired teacher Andy played the part of Andre in the Florian Zeller drama, in a portrayal which adjudicator Paula Dempsey described as wonderful. It was his first time to win the Best Actor award at the festival in which he first competed 40 years ago, having won Best Director with Enniscorthy Drama Group for two consecutive years in 1996 and 1997 with Billy Roches Poor Beast in the Rain and Jim Nolans Moonshine.

The Father director Paul Walsh who accepted the Abbey Theatre Award said the group cant wait to show what Wexford has to offer at the national theatre and described the opportunity as the honour of a lifetime.

Wexfords appearance at the All-Ireland Open Drama Festival was the culmination of what Paul called an astounding year on the amateur drama circuit.

The group performed The Father to a capacity crowd in the Dean Crowe Theatre in Athlone to a fantastic response from the audience.

At the awards ceremony on Saturday night, there were scenes of jubilation when Andy Doyle was announced as Best Actor, an accolade he was ecstatic to win because its been a long time coming.

The icing on the cake came when the Abbey Theatre company director Mark O Brien announced that Wexford had also won the coveted Abbey Theatre Award.

"That was really fantastic, said Andy. That to me is a real privilege  we are representing County Wexford but also representing amateur drama on the national stage. I absolutely cant wait. This county is a hot bed of amateur drama and waving the Wexford flag up there will be a real honour.

The Father has brought unprecedented success for the Wexford group, sweeping the boards and winning Best Overall Play at six and Best Actor for Andy at seven out of the eight drama festivals on the national circuit this year along with Best Set for Alan Kelly and Best Director prizes for Paul Walsh. In fact, Wexford earned the distinction of being the first group in Ireland to qualify for the 2023 national open drama finals.

Andy attributed the success to a combination of factors including the choice of a very special play with a unique perspective into the experience of dementia as seen through the eyes of the sufferer rather than a family member, and a consistently strong cast of six. It is a really good production of a difficult play.

The overall award in this years All-Ireland Drama Festival was won by Dalkey Drama Group with The Bog of Cats.
Alastair Dennehy and KathyAnn Murphy pictured in 2012 at their performance of The Cripple of Inishmaan.

Reuniting 11 years after they first tread the boards together, talented Arklow actors KathyAnn Murphy and Alastair Dennehy have joined forces to produce a new dark comedy play entitled Millennial League.

Written by MAD Drama School founder KathyAnn, Millennial League follows the story of Arklow natives Caroline and Brendan as they face the issues of modern-day millennials who are closing in on 30  what should they be doing and where are they going in life?

Brendan is leaving for Australia in two days and Caroline is desperate to remind him of his life in Ireland, to convince him to stay. Revealed through boxes of memories, their troubled past and unknown futures, this dark comedy will bring anxieties to the surface for most millennials!

A member of the Speech and Drama Teachers of Ireland, KathyAnn holds an MA in Theatre and has worked professionally in the arts sector for the past ten years  in stage design, directing and writing.

She met former DCU Drama Education Officer Alastair in 2012 when they shared a stage in the Masquerade Drama Group production of The Cripple of Inishmaan. Bonding over their shared passion for theatre, the teenagers struck a great friendship but lost touch when they began their college studies.

Reuniting nearly nine years later, the old pals picked up right where they left off and began their collaboration on Millennial League soon thereafter.

When Alastair and I reconnected, I happened to be writing this play, and we started to work together on it, KathyAnn said. We met and became friends in 2012, in The Cripple of InishMaan, but went our separate ways around our college years.

Having Alastairs input into the script and the whole production has been a breath of fresh air. It is now on its eighth and hopefully final draft has been in development for the past three years, with the upcoming performance  the final reading  being the second funded in conjunction with Ranelagh Arts and Dublin City Council.

We have been extremely lucky to be provided with such amazing support from Ranelagh Arts and Dublin City Council. It has aided the script to be formed into a very strong piece.

Were nearing it being the way we want it to be now, so the next step, with a fully developed script, is to produce the play on a full scale, which we hope to do in August. We just can't wait for people to see it  especially the people of Arklow!

Millennial League is based in Arklow and its about two millennials that are nearing 30. Theyre both going through their own crisis, trying to figure out where they fit in and what they're supposed to be doing.

The guy (Brendan), played by Alastair, is going to Australia but has a lot of personal issues that hes fleeing from. The girl (Caroline), who Ill be playing, is stuck in a rut. She never went to college and never had a lot of experiences that Brendan did.

She works her local job, and shes content to go through her day-to-day life in a small town, but she doesn't see any progression in her life and can't see past it. The play sees them packing for Brendan to leave and they start discussing their past and childhoods.

I suppose its a bit of character study in a way. It takes place in the sitting room and its just two people in a room, reminiscing and having a drink or two. We called it Millennial League because a lot of millennials will get the references, from the music to the throwbacks to childhood.

The play tries to highlight the issues of modern-day Ireland, small-town issues and Irish identity. The characters and stories aren't based on anyone in particular but are moulded by personal experiences and society. I dont think any Arklow locals will recognise themselves in the references  at least I hope not!

Praising the startling authenticity of KathyAnns characters, on-stage partner Alastair said: I was attracted to the part of Brendan because he's conspicuously plausible and familiar. I could easily have been in his class at school without any change to the character study.

I haven't had the chance to play a character so directly localized to where I grew up either, unburdened by any particular subculture or stereotype. I could swear I've met him!

Millennial League Director, Niamh McGowan added: I'm thrilled to be given the opportunity to direct this wonderful, timely piece by KathyAnn Murphy for the Ranelagh Arts festival - a play that will no doubt resonate with the millennial generation and beyond.

It is very exciting to be back in a rehearsal room exploring such relevant content with two tremendous actors. I am very much looking forward to discovering more about these characters and their stories and shaping Millennial League with KathyAnn and Alastair.

A rehearsed reading of Millennial League will be performed, in the development of new plays at Ranelagh Arts Festival, in Lios na nOg, Oakley Road, Ranelagh, Dublin on Saturday, May 13 at 4 p.m.

Tickets are free at www.ranelagharts.ie and donations are greatly appreciated. The reading is suitable for ages 15+
Britain

Teacher says she was sacked for refusing to use an eight-year-olds preferred pronouns
The head of an anti-monarchy group arrested ahead of a planned protest on Coronation Day has branded the detention of him and dozens of others a 'direct attack on our democracy'. Republic chief executive Graham Smith, who was released on Saturday night after nearly 16 hours in police custody, said officers should 'hang their heads in shame'. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that 52 people were arrested for affray, public order offences, breach of the peace and conspiracy to cause a public nuisance around the coronation. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he had demanded 'clarity' from the forces leaders on the arrests.
The court also sentenced Mr Ekweremadu's wife, Beatrice, to four years and six months in prison

A UK court Friday sentenced Nigeria's former deputy senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, to nine years and eight months in prison.

The court also sentenced Mr Ekweremadu's wife, Beatrice, to four years and six months in prison while a doctor who allegedly colluded with them, Obinna Obeta, was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Nigerian politician and the two others were found guilty of organ trafficking but their sentencing was deferred to today. They allegedly procured a 21-year-old Nigerian and flew him to the UK with the intention to harvest his kidney for their sick daughter.

Mr Ekweremadu, according to the BBC, was described by the judge as the driving force of the crime. His wife received a lesser sentence due to her more limited involvement, the judge ruled.

During a televised sentence hearing, the judge, Justice Johnson, said he took into consideration "a 51-page document" pleading for leniency for Mr Ekweremadu and highlighting how he is a person of upstanding character.

The Nigerian parliament and ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo, among others, had pleaded for leniency for the Ekweremadus.

More details later...
A number of street parties and events were held on bank holiday Monday in certain communities across Northern Ireland to mark the coronation of the King.
Michelle Beaver, 51, with her husband Peter, 55, who attended the coronation concert at Windsor on Sunday (Michelle Beaver/PA)

A nurse who was invited to the electric Coronation Concert as a coronation champion has spoken fondly of how everyone was singing along and cheering for the Prince of Wales when he gave his speech for the King.
Russia launches massive blitz on Ukraine on eve of Victory Day

It was the biggest drone swarm yet in a renewed Russian air campaign

An interior view shows an apartment damaged by remains of a drone in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photo: Reuters   REUTERS

Gleb Garanich Mon 8 May 2023 at 14:47






Mercenary leader had appealed to Moscow for help to obtain ammunition

Russias Wagner group appeared to climb down on its threat to withdraw from Bakhmut yesterday after being promised more weapons  as the UNs nuclear watchdog warned it was extremely concerned about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia power plant.
Russian troops rehearse a march in St Petersburg, one of many across the country taking place tomorrow to to celebrate 78 years after the victory in World War II. Photo: Dmitri Lovetsky/AP   AP
Habib Farajollah Chaab during his trial in Tehran in October. Photo: Reuters   via REUTERS

Iran has been executing people at a rate of one person every six hours over the past 10 days, according to rights monitors.
Image Credit: Unsplash

Ri-Bhoi/Meghalaya: Several experts highlighted the importance of intercultural communication as a means of transforming the world into a "global village" at the conference titled "Arabic Language and Literature: Learning, Teaching, and Translation" held at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM).

USTM, in partnership with Assam University, Silchar, hosted the conference, which was overseen by Mohammed Basheer K, who serves as the Department Head of Arabic at Assam University, Silchar, reported EastMojo.

Dr. Eassa Ali Mohammed Ali, from the Department of Translation at Sana'a University in Yemen, stated, "The world has become a global village owing to fast communication."

"This communication has led to language and cultural exchanges that have resulted in mutual understanding, tolerance, peace, brotherhood and integration."

Emphasizing the importance of intercultural communication in preventing conflicts arising from diversity at various levels, Dr Ali, "Intercultural communication is essential in the current era as it makes us, as individuals and groups, understand the importance of peaceful coexistence and appreciate other peoples cultures, practices, habits, beliefs and so on."

"In this multilingual and multicultural universe, we have easily formed, fostered and improved relationships with each other," she stated.

During the inaugural session, Fatma Rashed Salem Al Maamari, who heads the Cultural Relations at the Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science in Oman, and Eassa Ali Mohammed Ali were present as the guests of honor.

In the following sessions of the conference, the experts gave four presentations on language and literature, focusing on topics such as learning, teaching, and translation.

The conference began with an engaging presentation by Fatma Rashed Salem Al Maamari, who spoke about the "Significance of Language and Culture in a Global Context".

Followed by Eassa Ali Mohammed Ali's enlightening talk on "Promoting Integrity and Brotherhood through Cultural and Linguistic Exchange".

Abbas KP, an assistant professor from Farook College in Kerala, delivered a presentation on the "Distinctive Features of the Arabic Language", while Ubaidur Rahman, a research scholar at Aliah University in Kolkata, discussed "Language as a Means of Enriching Literature".

After the presentations, an interactive session was conducted between the resource persons, students, and faculty members of USTM, which proved to be an engaging experience for all.

The conference concluded with this session, marking the end of the event.
Image Credit: UNI

New Delhi/UNI: The Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) on Monday slammed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for "misleading" the people of Delhi over the bail issue of Former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, who is accused in the alleged liquor policy scam.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, BJP Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia, said, "AAP is misrepresenting the bail order by putting wrong facts in the public domain. It is very much contempt of court".

"AAP is insulting the court. Delhi High Court should take cognizance in a pending case of Manish Sisodia, who himself is the main accused, but his party says that there is nothing in this case while his bail is still pending," he added.

Bhatia's remarks came after Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party yesterday claimed that the court has stated in its order that there is "no evidence" to substantiate or corroborate the alleged corruption.

Bhatia added that the court has clearly said in bail order that Manish Sisodia is the mastermind behind the liquor policy conspiracy.

"The Kejriwal led-government is full of scams and they should apologize to the court and to the people of Delhi," he said.

Sisodia was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy in Delhi.

The CBI arrested Sisodia on February 26 this year. Later on March 9, the ED arrested him, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail.
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu was yesterday handed a nine years and eight months jail term for organ trafficking by the Central Criminal Court, Old Bailey, United Kingdom.

Justice Jeremy Johnson of a London court handed down the jail term upon conviction of Ekweremadu, his wife, Beatrice and a UK based Medical Doctor, Obinna Obeta (who acted as the middleman) on March 23 of the said offence. The jury held that they conspired to bring a 21-year-old, at the centre of the matter, to London to exploit him for his kidney.

While Mrs Ekweremadu is to remain in a London prison for the next four years and six months, Dr Obeta, besides bagging a 10-year imprisonment, has his medical licence suspended.

However, according to Justice Johnson, after deducting the period already spent in detention, Ekweremadu will spend about 5/6 years in prison (2/3 of his 9+ year prison sentence) while his wife will spend about 2 years in prison (one half of her 4+ years in prison).

Ekweremadu and Beatrice were arrested last year in London for bringing a Nigerian into that country for the purpose of harvesting his organ for his sick daughter, Sonia.

They were also convicted for conspiring to exploit the victim, who fled and took refuge at a London Police station, on hearing that he would be returned to Nigeria upon being discovered as a "mismatch".

Justice Johnson in his verdict had described the Nigerian senator as the "driving force throughout", while Dr. Obeta was accused of targeting the potential donor who was said to be young, poor and vulnerable.

Ukpo was described as a poor street trader in Lagos

The verdict yesterday is the first of its kind under the Modern Slavery Act 2015 of the UK.

The Ekweremadus were arrested by the London Metropolitan Police in June 2022.

They were alleged to have attempted to convince doctors at the Royal Free Hospital in London to perform an 80,000 transplant on the donor who was presented as the cousin of their daughter Sonia.

During the trial, Hugh Davies, the prosecutor, told the court that the Ekweremadus and Obeta had treated the man and other potential donors as "disposable assets - spare parts for reward".

He added that they entered an "emotionally cold commercial transaction" with the 21-year-old, offering him up to 7,000 in reward.

Although the couple apologised for claiming that the donor was a relative, they denied all accusations and maintained that they were the victim of a scam.

Obeta, who also denied the charge, claimed the man was not offered a reward for his kidney and was acting altruistically.

Sonia, Ekweremadu's 25-year-old daughter, did not enter any defence after presenting the court with a medical report claiming she is unfit for trial. She was not convicted. Sonia, 25, shed tears as she was cleared of the same charge after jurors deliberated for nearly 14 hours.

Between the conviction and sentencing, notable personalities around the world including former President Olusegun Obasanjo appealed to the UK government to be lenient with the Ekweremadus.

The senate, house of representatives, International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), as well as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) parliament, also asked the UK court to "temper justice with mercy" and consider valuable contributions made by the lawmaker in Nigeria and West Africa.

In Britain, it is legal to donate a kidney, but not for financial or material reward.

It was the first-time organ harvesting conspiracy charges had been brought under the UK's 2015 Modern Slavery Act.

Detective Inspector Esther Richardson, from the Metropolitan Police's Modern Slavery and Exploitation Command, called it a "landmark conviction" and thanked the victim for his "bravery" in coming forward.

During the weeks-long trial, the 21-year-old victim from Lagos, who cannot be named for legal reasons, testified that the Ekweremadus had flown him to Britain to harvest his kidney.

The kidney was said to be intended for Sonia, who remains on dialysis with a renal condition, in return for up to 7,000 ($8,800).

The man said he had been recruited by a doctor working for the politician, and had thought he was coming to the UK to work.

He only realised it was for a kidney transplant when he was taken to London's Royal Free Hospital last year, the court was told.

He fled and slept on the streets for three days after doctors there told him he would not be a suitable donor following preliminary tests and the Ekweremadus' move to return him to Lagos.

He eventually walked into a police station in May 2022 and said he was "looking for someone to save my life", the court heard.

The trial judge agreed with prosecutors that he could try to flee the UK. His wife and daughter had been out on conditional bail.

Chief Crown Prosecutor Joanne Jakymec said it was a "horrific plot", accusing the well-connected defendants of showing "utter disregard for the victim's welfare, health and wellbeing".

Around 20 people a day in Britain are diagnosed with kidney failure, necessitating prolonged dialysis treatment, and around 7,000 are waiting for a transplant from a suitable donor.

Informed consent is "a vital part of the organ donation programme" and thorough checks are made to ensure "no coercion", Fiona Loud, policy director at the charity Kidney Care UK, told AFP.

Voluntary donors engage in "an act of great generosity", she said.

Ekweremadu has represented the Enugu West for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party since 2003.

My Body Not For Sale, Says Organ-Harvesting Victim

The victim in the centre of Ekweremadu's organ harvesting saga has said he is "not for sale".

The victim, who cannot be named because of legal reasons, claimed he was lured to the United Kingdom under the pretense of job opportunity in the country.

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The victim said this in his impact statement which was read in court yesterday.

In the statement, the victim revealed his humble background in a Lagos village where he said he is the oldest of seven siblings living in a home without electricity or running water.

He was forced to become a street trader full time, moving to the city to provide for his family when his father fell ill with a heart problem. He sold mobile phone accessories from a wheelbarrow making at most 7 a day and as little as 50p, the report added.

He said he was approached with an opportunity to work in the UK, something he had "always dreamed of but never thought would happen."

However, he said he was shocked to discover the reason for the trip was to harvest his organ to give to Ekweremadu's daughter, Sonia.

"He (Dr Obinna Obeta) did not tell me he brought me here for this reason, he did not tell me anything about this. I would have not agreed to any of this, my body is not for sale," the victim said.

He added that he could not return to Nigeria because he worries for his safety. The victim claimed someone visited his father in Nigeria and asked him to get the victim, his son, to drop the case.

"I worry for my safety in Nigeria; those people can do anything. I think they could arrest me or kill me in Nigeria," he added.

He told the police he did not want to claim compensation from the "bad people" as it would be "cursed and bad luck", the report added.
Chanda* of Chimka Tola in Mandla skips school for four days in a month citing one reason or the other. A student of class 11, she is restless when she menstruates. The cloth piece that she uses these days adds to the irritability. When the state governments Project Udita was up and running, things were much easier for adolescents like her.

Walking to school is a problem. The constant rubbing of the cloth piece with the skin can cause rashes, followed by itching and burning sensation. It should be changed frequently, but is also difficult to wash and dry. I do not feel like studying. In fact, the first two days are mostly spent sleeping, said Chanda.

An empty sanitary pad vending machine at an Anganwadi center in Bhopal. It is too expensive now to restock, a worker there says (Photo sourced by Pooja Yadav, 101Reporters

Launched by the Women and Child Development Department in 2016, Project Udita offered a pack of six sanitary pads through anganwadi centres. It also sensitised women on the need to maintain menstrual hygiene, which made Chanda and others switch to sanitary pads.

Some centres sold the pack for Rs 12, while others priced it at Rs 15. As there was no government-fixed price, the vendors took the liberty to tweak prices after considering the cost of travel to a given village from the district headquarters.

Yet, the low rates of sanitary pads were helpful for village women and adolescents who mostly depend on the nominal income of their husbands or fathers. Sanitary pads are priced upward from Rs 35 per pack in shops, whereas good quality products cost anywhere between Rs 60 and 100.

Initially, the department helped coordinate the supply from pad-making agencies to anganwadi centres at the lowest possible price. Later, the agencies and anganwadis started dealing directly with each other. Vendors sell pads to distributors, who then get it to the centres through a commission-based channel. Anganwadi workers made the payments before or after the sales, as per the agreement they made with the vendor. However, this system did not work well in all centres.

In a tweet in April 2016, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had claimed that special corners were set up in 22,000 anganwadis under Project Udita. In reality, only banners and posters provided by the government for the schemes publicity adorn such corners. Forget villages, even anganwadis in cities do not have fully functional corners.

There was no government allocation to buy pads or install pad vending machines. The scheme envisaged installation of vending machines by the Women and Child Development Department, after taking help from private companies, NGOs and donors. But that too did not take off. Only very few centres got the machines under Corporate Social Responsibility activities of some companies.

Maya Vishwakarma, along with other teachers of a Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Narsinghpur, provide information related to menstruation and hygiene (Photo sourced by Pooja Yadav}

As a result, Project Udita came to an abrupt end in the early days of the COVID-19 spread, thereby forcing women and girls to return to cloth use. There is no risk of leakage or no issue in moving around when using sanitary pads. Moreover, it lasts for more time than the cloth piece, which has to be changed twice or thrice a day. We are not allowed to wash the cloth in the area where men take baths. Washing in the open is another problem. Sun drying of the cloth is also difficult as male members of the family should not see it, said Chanda.

Poor record

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4), 2015-16, rural Madhya Pradesh ranks worst in the country in menstrual health management, with only 26.4% women between the ages of 15 and 24 adopting hygienic practices.

A survey conducted in 2018 by Bhagidari Foundation on the menstrual behaviour of adolescent girls and women found that 88% women use cloth pieces during menstruation, while the rest use sanitary pads. As much as 42% of the surveyed women use the same cloth many times, while 29% use dirty cloth.

According to Bhopal-based Dr RK Badve, women who do not use sanitary napkins during menstruation are at 70% higher risk of contracting reproductive tract infection. White discharge, itching, burning sensation, swelling in the uterus and frequent urge to urinate can be other fallouts. If not taken care of, the infection can reach vagina and enter the umbilical cord. The possibility of bacteria reaching the vagina or urinary tract increases through defecation.

Rachna Dhingra, women's rights activist and member of the Bhopal Group for Information and Action, said there was a need to create awareness in rural areas about menstrual hygiene. Village women and girls use the same cloth for a long time and do not wash and dry it properly, which can lead to many diseases.

Nobody has an answer

If handling sanitary pads were much easier, why was its supply stopped? Ask anyone, and the standard reply is they stopped coming. An Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) supervisor from Betul district told 101Reporters that sometimes the demand was so high that they had to make calls for distribution of more pads. Even in rural areas, most adolescent girls and women started using pads after Project Udita was launched. Now, it is back to square one.

An anganwadi worker from Narmadapuram district confirmed that the pads costing Rs 12 were much sought-after. Another from Narayanganj in Mandla said she used to order as many pads as she thought would be necessary after gauging the demand. We were told to buy for Rs 60 the sanitary pads that were earlier available at Rs 12. As women cannot afford it, we stopped giving orders, said another worker.

Along with lack of demand for sanitary pads, an anganwadi worker in Kilol Park area of Bhopal had to deal with the problem of rats. The special corner has proved to be very popular here. In January last year, we had to close it down for two months as rats gnawed the pads stored there. As there was no scope of government help, I had to bear the cost of these unsold pads and pay the price to the vendor, she told 101Reporters on condition of anonymity.

She usually bought sanitary pads by keeping aside a part of her honorarium of Rs 10,000 and adjusted the amount later when buyers gave money. That had to be stopped as her honorarium was not paid for a few months. She has again started receiving the monthly pay on time now, but has no plans to buy pads as keeping them safe from rats is a big task. The pad-making units do not manufacture dispensing units.

Sukarma Foundation chairperson Maya Vishwakarma, better known as Padwoman of India, told 101Reporters that Project Udita has remained only on paper. In anganwadi centres, women did not get pads free of cost. Only a few centres, that too mostly in cities, had special corners. The pads can be cheaper, but 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is charged on the raw material. In such a situation, how can anyone supply pads at low rates? If anyone still manages to sell cheap, its quality may not be good, she said.

Emphasising the need to provide concession, she added, No government can distribute sanitary pads free of cost, it should not either. Rather, it should reduce the production cost by giving a GST exemption.

Despite repeated attempts, officials in the Women and Child Development Department were not ready to divulge any information regarding Project Udita. On condition of anonymity, one of them told 101Reporters that not a single rupee was allocated for the scheme.

The government says sanitary pads should be made available to women. From where and how will anganwadis get it done? We do not have an answer when anganwadi workers put forth these questions. Earlier, it could be made available at low rates. Now, the cost of raw materials and production charges have increased. How can any vendor make it available for Rs 12 or 15?

Meanwhile, Shashi Shyam Uike, Joint Director, Women and Child Development Department, Jabalpur Division, told 101Reporters that pads were being made available in the anganwadi centres in his division. We will take necessary steps if they are not available in any anganwadi. Irony is that Mandla falls under Jabalpur division and girls like Chanda are yet to see a renewed supply of sanitary pads.

Pooja Yadav is a Bhopal-based freelance journalist and a member of 101Reporters, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.


Adhara Perez Sanchez is an extraordinary 11-year-old girl from Mexico City with exceptional abilities that set her apart. With an IQ score of 162, higher than that of the renowned physicist Albert Einstein, Sanchez is on track to earn a master's degree in engineering.



She has already obtained a degree in systems engineering from CNCI University and an industrial engineering degree with a specialization in mathematics from the Technological University of Mexico.

Twitter

Despite facing bullying due to her autism, Sanchez graduated from elementary school at the age of five and completed middle and high school in just one year.

She is an academic prodigy and an accomplished public speaker who aspires to become an astronaut.

(Also read: Explained: World Autism Awareness Day: A Guide To Take Care Of A Child With Autism)

Her ultimate goal is to work with NASA, and she is actively pursuing this dream by collaborating with the Mexican Space Agency to encourage young students to explore the fields of space exploration and mathematics.

Sanchez, who was raised in a low-income neighborhood, was diagnosed with autism at the age of three after she experienced a regression in her speech development.

In an interview with Marie Claire, Sanchez's mother revealed that her daughter started to withdraw after receiving bullying from other students because of her condition and that her teachers didn't show any concern for her predicament.

"The teachers were not very empathetic; they told me I wished she would finish an assignment. She began to exclude herself; she did not want to play with her classmates and felt strange, different," said Sanchez's mother, Nayeli Sanchez.

"She could be at school for a while, but then she couldn't, fell asleep, and didn't want to do things anymore. She was very depressed, people did not have empathy, they made fun of her," said the mother.

(Also read: Meet Indias First Teenage Model With Autism Who Believes Autism Is His Superpower)

As a result of the unfavorable conditions, Sanchez had to change schools three times. However, her intellectual curiosity remained strong.

Sanchez's mother noticed that her daughter could memorize the periodic table and had even taught herself algebra. Believing her daughter was just bored, she enrolled her in therapy.

Then, a therapist recognized Sanchez's exceptional intelligence and recommended that the Center for Attention to Talent (CEDAT), a school for gifted children, take her in.

The school confirmed that Sanchez's IQ was higher than that of Einstein and Stephen Hawking.

"I want to go to space and colonize Mars. Imagine where you want to be if you dont like where you are. I see myself at NASA, so its worth a try," the 11-year-old told Goalcast.

(For the latest trending stories, keep reading Indiatimes)


A group under the auspices of North West Progressive Forum (NPF) has commended president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubus neutral stance on the debate for the leadership of the National Assembly (NASS), particularly the Senate.

The convener, Nasir Dambatta, while briefing newsmen in Kaduna, expressed satisfaction that Tinubu did not show he has an anointed candidate for the number three position.

The group called on the president-elect to resist the temptation of being dragged into a situation that would pitch him against the interest of his most reliable ally, the North-west.

According to Dambatta, NPF and associates from the South-South and the South East zones met and reviewed developments regarding the debate on which regional blocs should produce the next Senate president.

After reviewing developments in the country regarding the regional permutations for the Senate presidency and other key National Assembly positions, he said the group has also taken cognizance of claims that some of the contenders have been anointed.

READ ALSO: 10th NASS: APC Tilts Towards Consensus, Sets Up Committee To Reconcile Lukman, Adamu

We are, however, not bothered by these permutations as they are already part of our democratic culture. We note especially the twist taken by the debates that has potentially pitched the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu against the Northern region, which gave him the most votes in the February election, Dambatta said.

He maintained that the North generally played a vital role in the electoral victory of Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, adding that the North-west is on record as providing the highest percentage of votes of over 30% over and above every other geopolitical zone in the country.

It is noteworthy to recall that Asiwaju Tinubu scored a total of 8.79 million broken down into: -North West: 30.0%, -South West: 25.9%, -North Central: 20.0%, -North East: 13.5%,-South South: 9.10%, -South East: 1.45%.

We find it ridiculous, therefore, that even a zone that contributed a meagre 1.45% is finding it convenient to seek the Senate presidency, he added.

Dambatta further highlighted a number of resolutions reached at the meeting which included commending the mature and reserved silence of the president-elect Tinubu in the face of the mounting pressure of the moment, which we hold as golden.

We, therefore, call on the President-elect to resist the temptation to be unduly dragged into a situation that will pitch him against the interest of his most reliable ally, the North-west.
An Ikeja Magistrates Court sitting in Lagos State has told a 24-year-old man, identified as Seyi Sunday, that he would get a heavy sentence for squandering N196,000 he stole from someone who helped him in four days.

The Magistrate, Mrs Shakirat Obasa, made this known after listening to the facts behind the arrest of the defendant.

She said that the defendant was ungrateful and lived a reckless life.

The magistrate expressed concern that the defendant stole from someone who saved him from being lynched by a mob.

READ ALSO: Police Arrest Two Suspect For Killing Okada Rider, Stealing His Bike In Bauchi

You do not have wisdom, you spent N196,000 in four days, lodged in a hotel and did as you please with stolen money.

It is unfortunate that the money cannot be recovered, you do not have family or friends to help you, how will the complainant recover his hard-earned money?

You are not a first-time offender, so you cannot escape this time around. You will get a heavy sentence this time around, she added.

Obasa asked the complainant if he had anything to say, but he said he would leave it to the discretion of the court.

She adjourned the case until May 31 for sentencing.

The prosecutor, Insp. Olusegun Kokoye, read the facts to the court and explained that the complainant, Idowu Tosin, a businessman, saw that a mob was attacking a man close to his shop and waded in to save him.

Kokoye said that the complainant took the defendant into his shop and urged him to lay low until the mob dispersed.

He said that the complainant only asked one of his workers to take N4,000 from the N200,000 in the shop to attend to a matter, unknown to them, the defendant had another motive and stole the balance of N196,000 before vanishing into thin air.

Kokoye told the court that at the point of arrest on April 19, N3,000 was seen with him while he declared only N10,000 in his Zenith Bank account (2749237721).

Reports claimed that on April 28, the defendant was brought before the court facing a count charge of stealing.

The defendant had pleaded guilty to the charge during arraignment and was remanded in Kirikiri Correctional Center.
A total of 834 Nigerians evacuated from conflict-ridden Sudan arrived the pilgrims terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on Sunday.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria the airport terminal witnessed a large turnout of parents as well as relatives of the returnees, welcoming them with joy.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Sani Gwarzo, while receiving the returnees, said more stranded Nigerians would be back into the country in few days.

Gwarzo noted that three flights arrived the nations capital with a total of 834 returnees.

READ ALSO: 131 Stranded Nigerians Arrive Abuja From Sudan

As of this morning, we received three flights, Azman Air brought in 322 persons, Max Air brought in 410 persons, while Tarco Airline from Port Sudan came in with 102 persons, making a total of 834, he said.

According to him, the delay in the release of some of the returnees luggages in Wadi Halfa, in Sudan, had been settled and their luggages came in with them on their flights.

He furthered that the sick ones among them had also been taken to the clinics for proper check-up, before releasing them to go to their respective homes, adding that a mop-up session had been put in place to bring back more stranded Nigerians in Sudan.

If you know any of your colleague that was left behind, kindly let us know, he added.
Aubrey Drake Graham, nicknamed Drake, the internationally recognized American/Canadian rapper, has drawn attention online with a recent disclosure regarding his ancestry.

According to him, the Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) ancestry testing his father recently underwent, found that he was 30% Nigerian in a clip he posted to his Instagram account, which caught the attention of many of his Nigerian followers.

Drake remarked that Dennis Graham, his father, had provided him with a screenshot of his DNA test, which revealed that they were more Nigerian than any other race or tribe in the world.

In response to news being shared on his Instagram story, the ecstatic rapper expressed excitement and questioned whether he could now identify as a Naija man.

He wrote: This is my dads results does this means Im a Naija Man finally.

However, his revelation generated alot of excitement from Nigerians including celebrities on social media platform.

READ ALSO: Drake Wins $2.7m Bet On Israel Adesanya, Alex Pereira Fight

Nigerian actor, Alexx Ekubo even suggested Igbo names Drake can adopt since he has finally discovered himself as a Nigerian. He also gave him his first duty to remix some of his songs as a typical Nigerian man.

He Ekubo wrote, Ekenedili Drake Okwuchukwu Graham Chukwuka your green passport is ready for pickup. 1st assignment as a Nigerian, help us remix The Emperor, The Conqueror, The Champion, The Lion Is Here.

@tsodine_group wrote, Just like Small Doctor, Dr Sid, there comes Dr Akene short form Drake. He is from Anambra. But you for really come from Nigeria, by now you and Flavor for de drag who be the best artist in Igbo land.

Drake Nwanne m, no wonder I keep seeing him in my dream Chai my brother come back home, we don share land finish but I fit cut my own for you. Nwoke oma, @iam_ojay_igwe teased.

@obaksolo typed Person wey him Uncles still dey live for Ikorodu.

You mean Nnamdi Drake Nwachukwu, @therayztv wrote.

@o___folake said Is the way he spelled NAIJA for me..real son of the soil.

@30bgnurse: His DNA spread wings all over the world his ancestors were very busy.

Information Nigeria reports Drake is now among international celebrities who are traced to Nigerian roots.

Recently, American rapper Lil Wayne revealed he is 53% Nigerian while appearing as a guest on Drink Champ show with hosts N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN that airs on Revolt Television.
Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari is set to commission the multi-billion dollar Dangote oil refinery in two weeks time, according to a spokesperson for the presidency.

The plant will start production after construction started in 2016.

Africas largest oil producer, Nigeria, views the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery, which is being built by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangotes Dangote Group, as a way to end its reliance on imports for almost all of its refined petroleum products.

READ MORE: Sudan: Dangote To Partner With FG, Air Peace On Evacuated Nigerians

The refinery is located near Lagos and Buhari will commission it on May 22, just a week before he is due to leave office after serving the maximum two terms allowed by the constitution, said spokesperson Bashir Ahmad.

While a spokesperson for Dangote confirmed the timing of the commissioning, they did not provide further details.

The refinerys costs grew to $19 billion from initial estimates of between $12 billion and $14 billion, after several years of delays.
The Action Alliance (AA) has withdrawn its petition against the victory of Bola Tinubu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the presidential election.

At the commencement of the pre-hearing of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal on Monday in Abuja, no reason was given for the withdrawal.

Oba Maduabuchi, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said he filed the petition on behalf of the 1st and 2nd petitioners.

Meanwhile, following a no-objection stance by all the respondents in the matter, the Justice Haruna Tsammani led five-member panel dismissed the petition.

READ MORE: Atiku, PDP Apply For Live Broadcast Of Presidential Election Tribunal Proceedings

Specifically, AA had in the petition marked CA/PEPC/01/2023, which it filed on March 16, insisted that though its candidate, Solomon Okanigbuan, was validly nominated to contest the presidential election, he was however unlawfully excluded by INEC.

The party maintained that the presidential election was thus, invalid for non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, as amended.

It argued that Tinubu was thus not validly elected as his election contravenes the Electoral Act, the 1999 Constitution and INEC Guidelines for the 2023 general elections.

The petitioners told the court that Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, who was cited as the 4th Respondent, was not a member of the AA and was not sponsored by the party, adding that he did not participate in its presidential primary election.
A 56-year-old former boxer, Moses Olapade, has been arrested in Ondo State for allegedly beating his wife, Tinuke, to coma for refusing to hand over a television remote to him.

The incident was said to have occurred at their residence located at Oke-Aro Community in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

READ ALSO: Kaduna Lady Sues Father Over Attempted Forced Marriage

According to a source who spoke to The Punch on the condition of anonymity, Olopade returned home, from a journey on the fateful day and wanted to watch a programme on the television but the failure of his wife to give him the remote to tune in to his preferred channel caused the argument.

Olopade, who is also a truck driver, out of anger, reportedly rained punches on the wife and consequently, the latter fell down and became unconscious.

The source said it was the screaming of the children that attracted the neighbours to the scene. They quickly rushed the victim to a nearby hospital, where she was resuscitated.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, however, said she was yet to be briefed on the matter.

The PPRO stated, I have called the DPO of the Area ( B Division Police Station), but he said the matter was not reported at the police station.
A Catechist, his wife and five others were allegedly killed by suspected herdsmen in three separate attacks on Governor Samuel Ortoms village and other communities in Guma Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

According to reports, the marauders invaded Tse-Ortom, Hirnyam and Semaka communities in an unprovoked attack that left several persons injured.

An anonymous source who spoke to Vanguard said one of the victims was killed at Tse-Ortom, two in Semaka, while four others who included the Catechist of St. Peters Catholic Church, Hirnyam and his wife were murdered by the invaders in Hirnyam village.

He said: In their usual pattern, the herdsmen shot the victims in the three separate attacks on Friday and after killing them, they also used cutlasses to cut them like animals. Among the victims were a Catechist, his wife, one other woman and four others.

Chairman of Guma LGA, Mike Uba, who confirmed the killing and described it as sad and unfortunate.

READ ALSO: Benue Labour Party Ward Chairman Killed By Gunmen

Speaking through the Security Secretary of the local government council, Christopher Waku, he said seven persons lost their lives in the three separate attacks in three communities.

He said: Four persons died in the attack in Hirnyam; a Catechist, Dominic Dajo, his wife and two others.

In fact, he was in his house ironing his clothes to attend Mass, when he heard gunshots. He came out and was even telling someone that they, gunmen had killed two people already not knowing it was also going to be his own death next.

While they were in the house, the wife rushed out and was killed. He attempted to run away but they also killed him. Again, one woman from Ortom village was killed and, two persons were killed in Semaka village, making it seven.

The chairman furthered that at the time of the attacks, he could not reach the police on time as the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the LGA had been transferred and he was yet to get the phone number of the new officer.
MINISTER for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, has called upon citizens in the East African Community member states to turn challenges into opportunities to promote economic growth of the regional bloc.

She said that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has many opportunities, and civil society organisations should be sensitised through a well-developed strategy that will reach different groups in the society including women and youths in rural areas.

Dr Gwajima made the remark on Friday at the conclusion of the East African Civil Society Summit organised by the East African Business Council that was held in Arusha.

The theme of the summit was "Harnessing EAC Citizens' Potential in the Regional Integration Process." The East African Civil Society Summit provided a space for discussions on different thematic areas such as trade and investment, health, agriculture development, climate change, gender, and youths.

Dr Dorothy Gwajima applauded the East African Civil Society Organisation's Forum (EACSOF) Secretariat for successfully organising the summit.

The Summit held different panel sessions on the level of the EAC integration process, its obstacles and recommendations to ensure the EAC integration pillars are fully achieved.

For his part, the East African Business Council (EABC) Chief Executive Officer, John Bosco Kalisa, said there are three components of the integration agenda, which are people-centered, prosperity, and stability.

He said the Forum is a platform that has enabled people's voices to be heard and that AfCFTA is a game changer with many opportunities for the African continent.

"The AfCFTA Agreement has stepped up to ensure full inclusion of women and youths, who are key components of SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises)." "The East African Business Council has sensitised more than 300 companies on the AfCFTA initiative," he said.

Mr Kalisa also applauded the EAC partner states that have been selected in the AfCFTA Guided Trade Initiative and directed the private sector to trade by ensuring there is diversification of products.

He further encouraged women and youth entrepreneurs to utilise the digital tools available to take part in regional and continental trade and called for capacity building, sharing of information, and the elimination of value added tax (VAT) in digital tools and platforms to empower women and youths to engage in cross-border trade.

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On the other hand, the Principal Trade Officer, International Trade EAC Secretariat, Ms Angelique Umulisa, said that Regional Economic Communities (RECs) are the building blocks of AfCFTA, as all partner states have been involved in the negotiations of all the AfCFTA protocols, and the schedule of tariffs has already been adopted by the Heads of State.

Similarly, she urged that EAC has been proactive in all the AfCFTA engagement processes, and it's time that partner states selected under the Trade Guided Initiative commence trading.

The East African Civil Society Organisations Forum (EACS0F) is among the most varied and active regional CSO platforms on the African continent.

EACSOF makes it possible for organisations to connect and work together to represent the voice of the citizens of the East Africa region. This supports the aspirations of the East African community and makes the achievement of progress and solidarity realistic for the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of the region.
Kannywood star, Aminu Muhammad popularly known as Kawu Mala in famous TV series Dadin Kowa showing on Arewa24, is dead.

The actor who has featured in many movies in the Hausa-language film industry, died on Sunday evening, May 7, after battling a heart-related ailment for some years.

READ ALSO: One Dead As Police, Local Security Rescue 58 Kidnap Victims Abuja

He left behind a wife and over 10 children.

According to Daily Trust, the actor was buried on Monday morning May 8, at Haye cemetery in Nasarawa local government area of Kano state, according to Islamic rites.
Four members of a gang, including three Saudis and one Nigerian national have been arrested in Saudi Arabia over alleged involvement in the smuggling and sale of cocaine.

According to a report by Saudi Gazette on Monday, May 8, 2023, about 2.2 kilograms of cocaine were seized from the suspects.

The Criminal Investigation Department of the Riyadh Police revealed that it foiled an attempt to smuggle in 2.2 kilograms of cocaine in the city of Riyadh and the Jeddah governorate.

The gang members based in the Jeddah governorate, were said to be involved in the smuggling of cocaine while a citizen led a gang of two other citizens who were engaged in carrying out the sale of cocaine in the city of Riyadh using organized criminal methods.

READ ALSO: NDLEA Intercepts Skunk, Indian Hemp In Lagos, Ogun

Riyadh police seized the quantity of cocaine and a sum of money. Legal measures were taken against the arrested gang members and they were referred to the competent authorities.

The security authorities called on Saudi citizens and expatriates to report information about any suspicious activities related to drug smuggling or sale by calling over the number 911 in the regions of Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province and the number 999 in the rest of the Saudi regions.

They are also urged to report to the General Directorate of Narcotic Control (GNDC) via the number 995 or e-mail [email protected]. The authorities stated that all such reporting will be treated confidentially.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, has dismissed a report that he had a secret deal with Christians and traditional rulers for his re-election bid in the March 18 governorship election.

According to Sule, the support he got from Christians and traditional rulers and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was because of his achievements in his first term and their trust in his leadership qualities.

In a statement issued by the governors office, on Sunday, Sule reiterated there was no need to enter into a secret pact for his second term bid

It is pertinent to state categorically that the Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule did not at any time before or during the 2023 polls enter into any agreement or secret deal with individuals or groups as the unfortunate headline in question tries to insinuate.

The screaming headline is unfair and capable of misleading its readers to say the least. It is, therefore, necessary to put the issues in their right perspective as was intended when His Excellency, Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule interacted with some senior editors of newspapers in Abuja, shortly after his return from a private visit to the United States.

READ ALSO: Gov. Sule Wins Nasarawa Governorship Election

For the avoidance of doubt, it is worth reiterating that His Excellency, Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule did not enter any deal with Christians, traditional rulers and PDP ahead of the March 18th Governorship election, as was portrayed by the banner headline of the Sunday Sun newspaper.

He reiterated that, although religion played a major factor in the 2023 general election, Christians in the state voted for him because of their belief in him and the impact of his administration across the State.

What His Excellency, Engineer Abdullahi A. Sule told the editors was that, in spite of the fact that religion was allowed to play critical role during the 2023 general election, coupled with the intense competition among the various political parties, still certain prominent Christians, as well as supporters of the leading opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), voted for him essentially because of their belief and trust in his leadership qualities.

The intended message inherent in His Excellency the governors remarks is that the people of Nasarawa State rose above religious sentiments to vote for him in the election.

Achieving this feat by the governor required no deal, secret or open as the people of the state have seen, touched and felt the impact of the administration of Engr. Sule in the last four years.

The deal, if any , is that governor Sule has delivered on his mandate and the people evidently rewarded him with another term of four years as governor.
The hearing on the petition filed by Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate has been adjorned till Wednesday, May 10 by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT).

The Tribunal began its hearing on the petitions filed by aggrieved presidential candidates on Monday.

Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA earlier reported that the chairman of PEPT, Justice Haruna Tsammani, had dismissed the petition of the Action Alliance (AA) filed against the electoral victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the February 25 presidential election.

The court equally fixed the same date for another petition by the Action Peoples Party, APP, while it adjourned the case of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, till Tuesday.

READ MORE: Election Tribunal: Action Alliance Withdraws Petition Against Tinubu

While adjourning the cases, the court urged the parties to identify all the witness statements and documents they would rely on or object to during the actual hearing of the petitions.

Among those in court to witness the proceedings included the presidential candidate of the LP, Mr Peter Obi.

Meanwhile, The court, on Monday, barred Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State from standing before it as the representative of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The Plateau State Governor had immediately the first petition that was lodged against the outcome of the 2023 presidential election was called up, stood up and announced himself as Tinubus representative.

My Lords, my name is Simon Lalong and I am here to represent Tinubu, the governor stated.

However, Justice Haruna Tsammani led a five-member panel that declined to recognize him as Tinubus representative.

You cannot represent an individual. Tinubu is not a corporation that would need a representative, the presiding justice held.

My Lords, in that case, I will represent the All Progressives Congress, APC, Governor Lalong responded.
The Supreme Court has fixed Tuesday (9th of May, 2023) to deliver judgement on an appeal seeking to terminate Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State from office.

In his appeal, former Governor, Oyetola is seeking the reversal of the March 25 judgment of the Court of Appeal in Abuja which affirmed Adelekes victory in the last governorship election in Osun State.

The Appeal Court had, in its judgement, set aside an earlier judgment by the Osun Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which held in favour of Oyetola and removed Ademola Adeleke.

However, a five-member panel of the Supreme Court announced the date after taking arguments from lawyers to parties on Monday.

READ MORE: Osun: We Have Ground To Approach Supreme Court  Oyetola On Appeal Court Ruling

Recall that the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal had on January 27, in a split decision, voided the declaration of Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as winner of the gubernatorial election.

The Justice Tertsea Kume-led three-member panel tribunal, in its majority verdict, upheld a petition that was brought before it by the former governor of the state, Adegboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who came second in the election.

It held that Adeleke did not score the majority of lawful votes, adding that the conduct of the election was not in substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

According to the tribunal, the petitioners, Oyetola and APC, successfully established that there was over voting in 744 polling units in the state.

After deducting the said invalid votes, the tribunal declared Oyetola as winner of the governorship contest, even as it directed the INEC to withdraw the Certificate of Return it earlier issued to Adeleke.

However, in his dissenting judgement, the third member of the panel, Justice P. Ogbuli, affirmed Adeleke as the valid winner of the election, even as he struck out the petition that was lodged by Oyetola and the APC.
Security has tightened up court premises in Abuja as the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal Abuja has begun the pre-hearing of the petitions challenging the outcome of the February 25 presidential election.

It was gathered that over 50 police officers have surrounded the premises as pre-hearing sessions begin ahead of the full hearing on applications challenging the outcome of the 2023 presidential election.

According to the Independent National Electoral Commission, Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress polled 8,794,726 votes to win the election. While Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party came second with 6,984,520 votes, and Peter Obi was third with 6,101,533 votes.

The Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party presidential flag bearers, Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, have responded to the preliminary objections filed against their petitions contesting Bola Tinubus declaration as winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

However, security around the court premises is almost impervious as men of the Nigerian Police Force cordoned off the road leading to the court.

From the Cause list, the unveiling of the tribunal, the first case to be adjudicated, is the Action Alliance (AA) and its Presidential Candidate in the election, Solomon David Okanigbuan notifying the tribunal of their intentions to withdraw their petition against the declaration of Tinubu as Nigerias President-elect after the unveiling of the tribunal.

READ MORE: Atiku, PDP Apply For Live Broadcast Of Presidential Election Tribunal Proceedings

Meanwhile, Tinubu, others listed as respondents in AAs petition are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), All Progressives Congress APC and Hamza Al Mustapha.

Other petitions slated for the pre-hearing session are those of the Action Peoples Party (APP) which has Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as three respondents.

It would be followed by that of Peter Obi and the Labour Party (LP) marked CA/PEPC/03/2023 with INEC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Kashim Shetima and APC as four respondents.

The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) would proceed next against Tinubu.

Defendants in APMs petition are INEC, APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Kashim Shetima and one Kabir Masari.

Justice Tsammani maintained the panel will do justice to the case and advised the lawyers against making sensational comments.

He also asked for their cooperation since the case is time bound and they should be wary of bringing unnecessary applications that will waste the time of the court.

In their separate responses, counsels to the President-Elect, Wole Olanikpekun, and of Atiku Abubakar, Chris Uche as well as Peter Obis lawyer, Livy Uzoukwu, assured the court of their full cooperation and support

He concluded that everyone will be satisfied with the verdict at the end of the case.

Security personnel stationed outside the Court of Appeal, Abuja as the pre-hearing of the petitions challenging the outcome of the February 25 presidential election.
Microsofts decision to make Kubernetes a foundational service in Azure is paying off, not only for Microsoft but also for the rest of the Kubernetes ecosystem. Thats because the company is investing its engineers and money in more than its own projects, supporting and contributing to upstream tools and capabilities.

Sometimes that investment is used as a lever, with the aim of improving the ecosystem for users, but other times its about ensuring that we can run our cloud native applications more economically and, more importantly, with the minimum impact on the climate.

One key area of Microsofts investment in Kubernetes has been cost management tooling. Kubernetes is an orchestrator, scaling up and down its use of compute on demand. That makes it hard to predict how much Kubernetes will cost to run, especially in a public cloud where youre mixing virtual server types and billing rules, with changing demands in memory, networking, and storage. Yes, your application will scale to the limits youve set, but how does that affect your bottom line?

Adding FinOps to Kubernetes

As engineers we dont typically pay close attention to costs. After all, most of the time the bill for what we build and run is someone elses problem. But the same could be said about operations and security, until DevOps and DevSecOps came along. With cloud services we can use the same techniques we use to monitor our applications performance to monitor costs, taking advantage of the increasingly important FinOps. This new discipline gives us new visibility into how much running our code costs, and new ways to ensure that those costs are charged back to the right departments. Using FinOps tooling were able to directly tie code to bills, rather than bundling it all into one IT operational expense.

This is where the open-source OpenCost tooling starts to shine. Sponsored by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation, the home of Kubernetes, OpenCost is a tool for measuring and allocating the costs of Kubernetes applications, with the option of helping you keep them under control. OpenCosts contributors come from across the Kubernetes ecosystem, with monitoring providers like New Relic and Grafana Labs at one end, and the hyperscale cloud providers AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure at the other. Microsoft has announced support for OpenCost in Azure Kubernetes Service, Azures managed Kubernetes platform.

OpenCost allows you to drill down through your Kubernetes installation and operations to find out which containers, pods, deployments, etc. are costing you the most. Having real-time cost allocation like this gives you the ability to go beyond simply tuning your application for performance, instead optimizing for costs. This approach lets you find the sweet spot where your users get the best performance while costs are kept in check. Its a balancing act, and one that can take some time to get right, but its another compelling tuning parameter for your applications.

Working with OpenCost in AKS

While OpenCost will have production support for AKS from May 2023, a special build was made available for Kubecon EU to help you get started. There is some configuration required once its been installed, setting the appropriate permissions for working with Azure.

OpenCost uses the Azure Consumption Price Sheet API to get real-time pricing data for your account. That ensures it takes account of appropriate discounts, such as using reserved instances. You can set this up by adding an Azure role to your account that gives OpenCost access to your billing details as a service principal, via your billing account ID. Once you have created this Azure role, save its key and secret for use with OpenCost. You configure OpenCost to access this data via either YAML or Helm, depending on which you used to set up your installation. If you have a custom pricing relationship with Azure, youll need your existing offer ID to get access to your pricing through the API.

Usefully OpenCost can deliver data to Prometheus, which gives you a time series database that can store both signals from Kubernetes and pricing data from OpenCost. This makes financial information part of your observability platform, so you can watch for conditions that equate to high cost and treat them as a failure. Theres even a kubectl plugin that can query OpenCost data about your services, so you can start to script operations based on historic costs.

Using cost data to manage Kubernetes

With real time data through the OpenCost API theres scope for automated management models based on cost. If costs spike, why not use them as an input to KEDA, the Kubernetes autoscaler, and treat a high cost as an event that can scale down a cluster? There are even options in this for providers like Azure, using OpenCost as a way to deliver dynamic pricing to users.

Why is Microsoft embracing the introduction of tooling that helps its customers spend less, not more? The company may have little choice, given that AWS and Google Cloud also are partners in the OpenCost project. However, its a change that fits with CEO Satya Nadellas recent statement that Microsoft was helping [its customers] realize more value from their tech spend. By ensuring that customers can align their Kubernetes spending with usage, theres an opportunity to dynamically optimize the use of Azure infrastructure.

Microsoft could also improve customer retention, giving it the opportunity to win future business, and at the same time keep its own capital expenditure under control. Running massive cloud data centers is expensive, and building out new capacity is even more costly. Its in the best interests of both Microsoft and its customers to align on an operating model that allows both to spend, if not less, then at least just the right amount for their needs.

Building OpenCost into Azure will give both Microsoft and customers better visibility into resource usage and allow Azure to plan future expansions more carefully. In the light of Microsofts promise of long-term support for Kubernetes, its clear that cloud native development is here to stay, and that its now subject to the same controls as any other enterprise platform. Were no longer experimenting, were building businesses and services, and those need to operate in a predictable manner if theyre to become profitable for us and for Azure.

The future for Kubernetes on Azure is going to be boring, which shouldnt surprise us. After all, Kubernetes is infrastructure, and boring is the price we pay for maturity and enterprise acceptance. Whats interesting, as we move into a Kubernetes-powered future, is what well do with that infrastructure and what well build on top of it.
Temple University Health System reported a $59.8 million operating loss at the end of 2022 from a gain of $8.5 million in the same period the year before. Read more

The last three months of 2022 brought no financial relief to Southeastern Pennsylvanias nonprofit health systems, as the sector continues its difficult adjustment to higher labor costs and other rising expenses.

Six of the regions health care systems lost money in the three months that ended Dec. 31  and often in higher amounts than in the same period the year before  according to recent financial reports.

The local hospital systems that were profitable  the University of Pennsylvania Health System, Thomas Jefferson University, and Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia  either were flat or had steep declines in operating profits compared with the year before.

The national picture is very similar, according to Kaufman Hall, a Chicago consulting firm that tracks health system finances across the country.

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While we have seen a stabilization in operating margins over the past several months, the trend line continues to show that hospitals will be in a tough spot financially for the foreseeable future, said Erik Swanson, senior vice president of data and analytics with Kaufman Hall. With future COVID surges possible and challenging financial months ahead for hospitals, managing cash on hand will be critical to weathering the storm.

Temple Health

Temple University Health System, which has expanded through the acquisition of Chestnut Hill Hospital and the soon-to-open Temple Womens Hospital, reported a $59.8 million operating loss at the end of 2022 after a gain of $8.5 million in the same period the year before.

Whats worse is that even on an operating cash flow basis, which excludes interest expense and accounting charges, Temple lost money in the first half of fiscal 2023, which ends June 30.

We are laser-focused on trying to turn that around, the health systems chief financial officer, Nick Barcellona, said on Temples quarterly earnings call Monday.

Two major factors are persistently higher-than-normal expenses for agency nurses, who fill in when hospitals dont have enough available staff, and longer average patient stays, Barcellona said. Temples average length of stay increased to 6.28 days from 5.96 days. Were not getting paid any more to care for those patients that are in the bed for an extra third of a day, he said.

Tower Health

Losses continued at Tower Health, which recently appointed a new chief financial officer and hired a new investment bank. The nonprofit, which is based in West Reading, and anchored by Reading Hospital, issued an abbreviated earnings report, which did not provide details on its cash reserves and on how many days it could continue to pay its bills without bringing in more money.

Tower said that the abbreviated public disclosure, which also no longer provides details on the performance of individual hospitals, fulfills the requirements of its loan agreements. At the same time, Tower this year started providing more frequent reports to institutional investors and other bondholders, but those are not available to the general public.

The nonprofit reported $320 million in unrestricted cash at the end of September, down more than $400 million over two years. The $320 million worked out to 52 days of cash on hand. Temple, by contrast, had 153 days of cash on Sept. 30.

As of Dec. 31, Tower likely had less than 50 days of cash on hand, given its $56 million operating loss in the quarter. A spokesperson did not confirm that estimate.
A Philadelphia judge declared a mistrial Monday in the case of former city SWAT Officer Richard P. Nicoletti, who is facing criminal charges for pepper-spraying three demonstrators who sat in the middle of I-676 during the citys racial justice protests in 2020.

After deliberating for nearly three days, jurors told Common Pleas Court Judge Roxanne E. Covington on Monday afternoon that they were deadlocked  the second time they reported an impasse to the judge as they weighed whether to convict Nicoletti of charges including simple assault and official oppression.

The first instance was Friday afternoon, at which point Covington asked the panel to continue deliberating, which they did  even after two jurors and two alternates had been dismissed for personal reasons, trimming the size of the panel from 12 people to 11.

The additional time did not solve the apparent rift.

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This matter is now declared a mistrial by this court, Covington said before dismissing the panel. Each of the jurors declined to comment when leaving the courthouse.

Prosecutors have the ability to try Nicoletti again, and Jane Roh, a spokesperson for the District Attorneys Office, said they intend to do so. Still, it could be months before the case is put before another jury; a status listing in the case is not scheduled until July. In the meantime, Nicoletti remains free on bail.

The case was notable for its connection to the demonstrations that took place after the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The Police Department drew national attention for its heavy-handed response, and just a few weeks ago, the city paid nearly $10 million to settle claims of brutality and unnecessary use of force including tear gas and rubber bullets.

Still, Nicoletti, 37, was one of just two officers to face criminal charges over his behavior. Prosecutors contended his use of the use of pepper spray  at point-blank range and into three demonstrators faces  was unnecessary and beyond the scope of his duties as an officer.

This was not immediately necessary  the defendant did not have to do it, Assistant District Attorney Brian Collins told the panel last week. He made a choice, and a decision, to do it.

Nicolettis lawyers argued that his use of the spray was pre-approved by his superiors  including Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw  making it a tool he was allowed to use while seeking to defuse a dangerous situation and get protesters off a highway.

He was justified in what he did, Fortunato Perri Jr. told jurors during his closing argument Thursday. There is zero evidence that he did anything other than his job.

Perri reiterated Monday that the charges against Nicoletti were without merit. And John McNesby, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5, said in a statement that District Attorney Larry Krasners office had worked overtime to demonize a decorated police officer for doing his job under very difficult conditions.

The episode for which Nicoletti was charged occurred on June 1, 2020, when hundreds of protesters gathered for a third consecutive day to demonstrate in Center City against police brutality. As marchers took different routes around City Hall and toward the Art Museum, some ventured onto I-676  even as cars were still traveling on the highway.

SWAT officers were among those called to help get people off the interstate, according to testimony at the trial, which began last week. And commanders including Outlaw had pre-approved officers to carry so-called less than lethal munitions, including tear gas and pepper spray. After demonstrators gained access to the highway, a SWAT commander testified, a supervisor said over police radio that officers could deploy those munitions.

SWAT officers then fired tear gas, causing most protesters to begin retreating and scrambling for exits. But three people  Christina Sorenson, Katharine Walsh, and Diamonik Hough, who all testified at the trial  decided to take a seat in the middle of the eastbound lanes. Hough said he sat first to show that protesters were not intent on violence; Sorenson and Walsh said they then sat near Hough as a show of solidarity, even though they did not know him or one another.

What happened next was captured on video: Nicoletti, wearing a gas mask and protective gear, approached the trio and began using his pepper spray. He pulled down Sorensons goggles and sprayed her in the face, doused Walsh at point-blank range, and sprayed Hough several times while shoving him to the ground.

Perri said that officers are trained to aim the spray toward peoples eyes and face, and that Nicoletti was simply following that training  and his orders to clear the highway  when he used it.

Collins said Nicoletti went too far. There were other officers nearby who could have arrested the demonstrators if they continued refusing to move, he said. And Nicolettis decision to spray peaceful protesters and then walk away effectively left them blinded and on their own to figure out how to leave the highway as cars were beginning to drive again.

Nicolettis actions were part of a larger scene of chaos on the highway that attracted widespread scrutiny for weeks. Though Mayor Jim Kenney and Outlaw initially defended the Police Departments use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and pepper spray to clear the interstate, they abruptly apologized after a New York Times video recounted the disarray.

Outlaw, while apologizing, also said she was disgusted by video of Nicoletti pepper-spraying the demonstrators. She then fired him, and District Attorney Larry Krasner charged him two weeks later.

Nicolettis case wound an unusual path through court: In 2021, Municipal Court Judge William Austin Meehan dismissed all charges, saying Nicoletti was authorized to use the force. [Prosecutors] dont like when he used it. That doesnt make him a criminal.

Common Pleas Court Judge Crystal Bryant-Powell later reversed that decision, reinstating all charges and putting Nicoletti on the path to trial.

Besides Nicoletti, only one other prosecution remains pending connected to the protests. Former Inspector Joseph Bologna faces counts including assault and possessing an instrument of crime for striking a demonstrator with his police baton on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

A trial date in that case has not been set because prosecutors have appealed a judges ruling that they havent presented enough evidence to support a count of aggravated assault. Bologna  who has insisted his actions were justified  is due back in court for a status listing next month, court records show.

Staff writer Rodrigo Torrejon contributed to this article.
Camden-born Jose Lorenzo worked his way up from dishwasher at Caffe Aldo Lambertis to cooking and then managing at the Lamberti familys various restaurants in South Jersey and Center City Philadelphia.

Only months after he bought his first house, the pandemic hit and his hours were cut. To pay the bills, he started selling birria tacos out of his garage in Lindenwold. Before I knew it, I started seeing people coming from New York and Maryland, he said. At the time, my competition was not doing birria tacos.

Someone at Clementon Park heard about it, and last year, Lorenzo opened three taco stands at the amusement park. Last month, he added a brick-and-mortar BYOB restaurant called AXO in Lindenwold, just a few blocks from his house. Its full service, and does a lot of takeout from a counter.

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He thought that the food needed to be different at AXO, which is also his nickname. Everybodys doing birria now, he said.

Lorenzo, 32, whose family is from Puebla, decided to fuse Mexican, Korean, and Japanese ingredients at AXO. So although everyone might be offering birria, not everyone is serving birria egg rolls, Korean al pastor tacos (the pork gets a blast of gochugaru), and bowls of birria ramen.

Youve had butter boards, snack boards, and charcuterie boards? Lorenzo had branded boards made to serve the tacos and certain dishes, such as ceviche.

Its BYOB and cash only, and watch the calendar: AXO is closed Monday and Wednesday to accommodate Lorenzos schedule at the amusement park.
MINISTERS and heads of government institutions should set budget for their employees to pursue leadership training programme at Uongozi Institute, a cabinet minister has called.

Speaking at Uongozi Institute's 6th Leadership Graduation Ceremony in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, the Minister of State, President's Office (Public Service Management and Good Governance), George Simbachawene, said it was imperative to prepare leaders for effective and efficient resource management.

"Developing and nurturing leaders is not a choice but a necessity," said the minister, who represented Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa at the graduation ceremony for 194 students, who had completed long-term executive programmes which included Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership (PGD), Certificate in Leadership (CiL), and Women's Leadership Programme (WLP).

Mr Simbachawene said while there is a notion that leaders are born with natural leadership abilities, it is also true that good leaders can be prepared to be even better through training on new skills and grow in leadership competency.

"We continue to see the importance of preparing leaders through training. Gone are the days we took for granted that leaders are born. We now need to prepare, nurture, inspire and develop young talents," said the minister.

He said with increasing training cost for preparing and nurturing leaders it was important to undertake cost-sharing approach to support the training programmes at the institute.

He said Uongozi Institute should reach out the private sector and engage them in the leadership training programmes through cost sharing approach.

"I call upon the Uongozi Institute leadership to look at how they can attract the private sector to send their employees for leadership training and contribute for the training cost," he said.

The minister called upon women who completed Women Leadership Programme to work hard, showcase leadership skills and help fellow women and men to advance in their careers.

"When you're a woman leader you should not help fellow women only. You should also help and cooperate with men. This training should not be a reason for arrogance and pride because of promotion or increased income. We are convinced educated women are catalyst for development," he said.

In his keynote address at the graduation ceremony, the Secretary General of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) shared his views on what African leaders need to consider to build a sustainable architecture for the future.

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He said Africa had what it takes to become a global powerhouse in agricultural food production given its abundant land and resources.

"As you know Africa has over 60 per cent of world's arable land but its agriculture is dominated by small scale subsistence farming. As a result, Africa remains a net importer of agricultural products and suffers food insecurity and subject to water shortage and water induced agricultural shots," he said.

He said however Africa today was creating new development path through harnessing the potential of its resources and people.

"You as graduate have a role in confronting development challenges our continent faces," he told the graduates.

He said it was important "to work together as a continent to make sure AfCFTA objectives are attained and no one is left behind."

"It must be a fundamental mission of African leaders to not miss the opportunity to start building a sustainable architecture for prosperous Africa," he said.
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Center City, shown here in 2021, anchors Jefferson Health, which included 18 hospitals in the Philadelphia region. Jefferson said last week that is selling part of its clinical laboratory business to Labcorp. Read more

Jefferson Health announced a deal last week to sell some of its clinical laboratory business to Labcorp, one of the nations biggest providers of blood tests and other diagnostics.

Details, such as the price and how many Jefferson employees will be affected if the deal closes as expected this summer, were not available. Jefferson did not answer questions about the sale.

Moodys Investors Service in March downgraded the credit rating of Thomas Jefferson University, which owns Jefferson Health. The credit-rating agency said then that it expected Jeffersons new management, led by chief executive Joseph G. Cacchione, to pursue sales like the Labcorp deal to help Jefferson raise money.

The nonprofit systems cash reserves have declined significantly in the last 18 months because of low operating profits and high capital spending on a new outpatient tower at 11th and Chestnut Streets in Center City and other projects, Moodys said.

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Jefferson says its health system and colleges employ 43,000 people around the Philadelphia region. The system has 13 general hospitals, a hospital for neurosciences, and two rehabilitation hospitals. It also owns two orthopedic specialty hospitals as part of joint ventures.

A string of deals

Even before Cacchione arrived last September from Ascension, Jefferson had been selling parts of its businesses.

The month Cacchione arrived, Jefferson filed an application to sell a 190-bed nursing home in New Jersey to Benjamin Kurland, who operates Allaire Health Services, a New Jersey company with 11 nursing homes in three states. The price was not disclosed. New Jersey licensing records show that Jefferson still owns the facility, which is near Jefferson Washington Township Hospital.

Jefferson last summer sold half its stake in the Delaware Valley Accountable Care Organization, a gain of $25 million, according to its financial statement. The ACOs buyer was Humana, a national giant that competes locally with Health Partners Plans Inc., a Philadelphia Medicaid and Medicare insurance company that Jefferson owns.

In June of 2022, Jefferson put its home health care and hospice business into a joint venture with Bayada, a large national home health care business based in Moorestown. As part of that deal, Jefferson recorded a gain of $31.7 million in its operating revenue.

Changes coming to Jefferson Elkins Park

During the 2020 antitrust trial over Jeffersons acquisition of Einstein Healthcare Network, Jefferson officials said they would shut the Elkins Park emergency department and eliminate the 60-bed inpatient program there. Jefferson planned to replace them with expanded doctors outpatient offices and turn over more space to MossRehab.

Those changes are now imminent, Jefferson said last month in a news release. In addition, inpatient physical rehabilitation patients at Abington Hospital will shift to Elkins Park next month, Jefferson said.

Jefferson is hoping that people who counted on the emergency department at Elkins Park will go to its hospital in Abington (3 miles away) or to Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia (3.6 miles away). Temples Jeanes Hospital (2.9 miles away) and Holy Redeemer Hospital (3 miles away) are also close alternatives.
Philadelphia City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada (right) is facing a Democratic primary challenge from Andres Celin in the 7th Council District. Read more

Kensington  where a billion-dollar opioid trade and gun violence rage against looming gentrification  is at the heart of a contested race for Philadelphia City Council in the May 16 Democratic primary.

City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada, who took office after a November special election in the 7th Council District, faces a challenge from Andres Celin, a social worker.

The two candidates offer diverging styles when it comes to tackling many issues in the district, which spans from the gentrifying River Wards to deeply impoverished Fairhill, to working-class neighborhoods like Frankford and Juniata Park.

Both said they would oppose a supervised injection facility without community support, but their approaches to policing, development, and affordable housing are more divided.

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Lozada, the longtime chief of staff for former Councilmember Maria Quinones Sanchez, took over after her boss resigned last year to launch an ill-fated mayoral bid. She promises to use her relationships in City Hall to build a long-term plan for Kensington and surrounding neighborhoods  which begins with increasing the police ranks.

Nobody wants to have that conversation, but in districts like mine, where people who didnt live here have been calling to defund the police, that message overpowered what the community residents want, said Lozada.

Celin, 34, said residents need drastic change and argued that Lozada represents a continuation of the status quo. His platform includes an emphasis on affordable housing and a social service-forward approach to the districts ills.

Im not going to solve all the problems, but I will have a clear set of priorities, Celin said.

Quinones Sanchez, who represented the 7th District for nearly four terms, often lamented Councils limited power and said the executive branch is key to addressing Kensingtons problems. The neighborhood has come up repeatedly in the mayors race, even as the promises to fix Kensington ring hollow to community leaders on the ground who have heard it all before.

They also fear that Kensingtons problems could simply shift to surrounding neighborhoods.

Were either going to end up in a situation where everything stays in decay, or we unleash the wolves and everything gets displaced, or we come up with a community-based plan thats comprehensive and trauma-informed, said Bill McKinney, the director of New Kensington Community Development Corp. and a two-decade neighborhood resident.

Decay, displacement, and the path forward

Public safety remains a divisive issue on the campaign trail, even though City Council is limited in its power to curb gun violence.

Lozada has called for a Marshall Plan for Kensington  a reference to postwar Europes reconstruction  and said restoring police-community relations is a top priority.

One cant work without the other, said Lozada, 52, who grew up in Hunting Park and now lives in Northwood. Weve already made a lot of progress building those relationships.

Celin is a native of Colombia who has worked with Congreso de Latinos Unidos and for mayoral candidate and former Councilmember Helen Gym. He accused Lozada of being too bullish on policing and too light on metrics for success.

Police enforcement, yes, but that by itself isnt going to address the issue, Celin said. We need increased [treatment] beds, increased outreach, and reduced barriers to treatment.

Kensington had nearly six times the number of shootings per square mile than the city average between 2015 and 2021, mostly concentrated on a few dozen blocks, according to an Inquirer analysis. Decades of aggressive policing and containment strategies have done little to mitigate the tide of violence wrought by the drug trade and high poverty.

Kensington resident Guillermo Garcia said he often sees drug dealing, heaps of trash, and sprawling tent encampments. He said he supports Lozada because shes been responsive to his concerns.

Ive been here since 1980, and this is the worst Ive ever seen, said Garcia, 52, who is disabled and often volunteers to help beautify vacant lots.

Marilyn Cruz, 53, a real estate agent and community leader who supported Quinones Sanchez, said she supports Celins campaign because he appeals to a younger generation. And David Rodriguez, a Democratic committee person who lives in Feltonville, said the district needs a regime change from the Quinones Sanchez years.

Its time for a new beginning, Rodriguez said. People get too comfortable and they stop getting creative and stop helping.

Gentrification vs. a sustainable development

Much like other self-styled progressives running for Council seats, Celin pitches himself as an affordable-housing champion.

Kensington and the surrounding neighborhoods were once industrial hubs that brimmed with factory life and mom-and-pop businesses. But decades of white flight and disinvestment have left behind one of the largest concentrations of vacant land in the city.

Celins platform includes expanding inclusionary zoning rules that Quinones Sanchez enacted, requiring new multifamily buildings in some booming parts of the districts to include 20% affordable units.

Real estate interests say the zoning overlay has hindered investment in an area where crime, trash, and homelessness are major problems. Quinones Sanchez has said she regrets the legislation, which hasnt permitted many new affordable units yet, and would revisit it if she were still in office.

For new projects coming online, we havent really been looking in the area, James Maransky, a real estate developer who is supporting Lozada, said of the zoning overlay. Crime is the biggest issue. Youre never going to have enough police. Greater development and more eyes on the street is the number one way to combat crime.

Celin wants to capitalize on vacant land. He said hed work to speed up the sluggish disbursement of city-owned Land Bank properties for affordable housing  and criticized Lozada for lacking a vision on this front.

Lozada acknowledged that development wasnt her strong suit but rejected the idea that Celin, who moved into the district three years ago, would have the know-how or existing relationships to enact his agenda.

Ive shown up and gotten cursed out, Lozada said. If you think youre going to be able to get the work done, I dont see it happening.

Garcia, who lives near Hope Park in Kensington, said long-term homeowners like him need protections, but he wants to see more investment and less blight.

Kensington and Allegheny used to be beautiful, he said. You heard music, people shopping, and those were good days. That all changed drastically, but we can get back to that.
The Ford Motor Co. plans to discontinue AM radios in most of its 2024 vehicles, according to the Detroit Free Press. Read more

When emergencies unfold in rural Pennsylvanias internet and cellular dead zones, time-tested terrestrial radio often keeps motorists from driving blindly into a tornado.

Since its signal travels a greater distance, the AM band in particular has long been a vehicle for news, weather updates, and police emergencies. Across rural America, including Pennsylvania, where broadband and cell phone service can be dismal, some residents, lawmakers, and emergency management coordinators are concerned that more auto manufacturers, like Ford, are phasing out AM radio altogether in future models.

Its a big surprise, honestly. Ford is a symbol for rural America, said Shelly Butler, 62, a state legislative aide who lives in Coudersport, Potter County, and owns two Fords. I dont think they are looking out for rural America and theyre giving an opinion that they dont matter anymore.

As car manufacturers continue to offer a wider array of electric vehicles, AM radio has presented a unique problem. Electric motors appear to cause electromagnetic interference with AM radios reception. Many EVs, including Tesla, have already dropped the signal, but in March, Ford said it would remove AM from internal combustion engines as well, starting in 2024.

In an email to The Inquirer, Ford spokeswoman Whitney Pineda said U.S. AM stations are modernizing radio by offering internet streaming through mobile apps, FM, or digital options.

Ford will continue to offer these alternatives for customers to hear their favorite AM radio music, news, and podcasts as this transition continues, Pineda wrote.

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Not everyone in rural Pennsylvania is concerned about AM radio possibly going by the wayside.

Im 37. I dont listen to AM radio. Im more streaming, said Brandon West, owner of All Wheels Driven, a used car dealership in Wellsboro, Tioga County. The vehicles the come into our shop for work, Id say less than 1 or 2 percent are tuned to AM radio.

David Lent, owner of AM 600 in Coudersport, said he hears that sentiment when hes trying to sell advertising. The stations been broadcasting out of the small town of 2,350 for 70 years.

I just dont know whos listening anymore, Lent said. Young business owners dont know what it is, and certainly dont want it.

Pennsylvania has 164 AM radio stations and 412 FM stations, according to BIA advisory group, the bulk of them concentrated in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. According to Nielsen, about 47 million Americans listen to AM radio per week.

I know a lot of people dismiss AM radio as this conservative wasteland, but theres much more to it than that, said Chris Stigall, a host on AM 990, a conservative talk station in Philadelphia. For many communities, it represents a lower bar to get into radio. Theres a whole lot of Hispanic stations and faith-based communities that look to AM. I dont say this from a selfish perspective, but if people are truly concerned about having diverse, broad audiences, they shouldnt just shrug this off.

While many longtime AM stations, including KYW 1060, now have FM counterparts and streaming services available, opponents of the phaseout plan say counting on cell phones, internet service, and subscription-based services in emergencies isnt realistic in rural America.

As history has shown after large-scale disasters, AM radio has been a lifeline to provide vital safety and recovery information to survivors. It also can provide warning of weather threats through the Emergency Alert System, Ruth Miller, a spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, said in a statement. Because AM signals can travel longer distances, particularly at night, they are more easily accessible to people in rural areas.

Nationally, former Federal Emergency Management Agency head Craig Fugate has urged Congress and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to delve into the issue, calling radio stations the last line of communications that communities have. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts and U.S. Rep Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey have also pushed back against the manufacturers whove thrown up their hands against electromagnetic interference issue in EVs.

If Elon Musk has enough money to buy Twitter and send rockets to space, he can afford to include AM radio in his Teslas, Gottheimer said in March.

Others elected officials say the AM radio issue is merely a sign of changing times and that streaming radio will improve as rural America beefs up its internet connectivity and cell phone coverage. State Rep. Dan Moul, a Republican out of rural Adams County, said he grew up on a farm, in and out of muddy Ford trucks for much of his youth.

Now I drive a Tesla and it still has AM and FM radio, but I have to tell you, I havent listened to AM in a long, long time, he said. People might be mad and moan about this for a while but, ultimately, its something that will get sorted out by supply and demand.

Fords F-series of trucks have been Americas top-selling automobiles for decades. Sales managers at a half-dozen Ford dealerships in rural Pennsylvania and New Jersey didnt return phone calls or emails for comment.

For Butler, the Coudersport native and lifelong Ford owner, the AM radio issue isnt enough for her to park a Chevy truck in her driveway out in Gods Country, the longtime nickname for Potter County. (GM hasnt announced any plans for AM radio.)

Ill still buy a Ford truck, she said, but Ill be a little disappointed.
An overhead view of the Franklin Towne Charter High School and surrounding complex. Read more

Allegations of lottery manipulation at Franklin Towne Charter High School should reverberate far beyond the Bridesburg school, one of the citys top charters, say charter critics.

The possibility that, in February of this year, the schools then-chief executive deliberately shut out students from certain families and zip codes  contentions made by a top Franklin Towne official and detailed in an Inquirer story published Sunday  raises questions about charter-school oversight, state law, and enrollment practices elsewhere.

Charter advocates condemned the alleged conduct, which they said was not representative of their schools at large: In any case, most of the citys charters now use a centralized lottery that proponents said eliminates the possibility of such tampering.

But others argued the lottery allegations reflected broader problems with how the publicly funded-but-independently run schools are regulated.

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Margie Wakelin, lawyer with the Education Law Center-PA, said Franklin Townes situation is further evidence of an equity problem in charters generally.

 READ MORE: A Philly charter school manipulated its lottery to keep kids out, a top administrator says

Its pretty shocking, but not entirely surprising to us, said Wakelin, who has represented families in actions against Franklin Towne. We really think that the School District of Philadelphia needs to be able to have greater methods for accountability and steps in place for charters, and this is a prime example of why.

Charter schools enroll about one-third of public school students in Philadelphia. The Education Law Center has found that many of the citys charters are serving smaller shares of economically disadvantaged students, English language learners, and students with severe disabilities than district-run schools. Charter advocates, meanwhile, argue that the districts own schools are segregated, with the demographics of special-admission schools not reflecting the citys.

Franklin Towne is often held up as an example of whats working for Philadelphia students, when it comes to school choice, Wakelin said, but its really important to look at who has the ability to make that choice, and who doesnt.

State Rep. Jason Dawkins (D., Philadelphia) expressed outrage over the Franklin Towne allegations.

As taxpayers, we should not be funding schools that engage in such practices, Dawkins said in a statement. If found guilty, they should face severe penalties. We must hold our schools accountable for providing equal opportunities for all students.

Changes, Dawkins said, are imperative.

Many in the charter sector also expressed concern Monday.

The African American Charter School Coalition, an organization that represents Black-led city charters, blamed the districts charter schools office, which has said its investigating any lottery tampering. The Franklin Towne situation shows gross negligence and incompetence of the Charter Schools Office to oversee public charter schools fairly and equitably, leaders said in a statement.

The coalition believes that Black-led charters are scrutinized more closely and closed at disproportionately high rates than other charters. A school board-ordered outside investigation of those allegations is underway; its unclear when it will be completed.

Franklin Towne, a white-led charter, has not been held to the same standards as many Black-led charters, the coalition suggested.

Scott Peterman, CEO of Philadelphia Charters for Excellence, said he learned of the Franklin Towne allegations when he read the Inquirer story. He said all public schools, including charters, must be held to the highest standards, and said the organization supports a full investigation of Franklin Towne.

Any action taken by a public charter school to discriminate in its enrollment practices is unacceptable, and further feeds into the false narratives and misconceptions about public charter schools, Peterman said.

PCE encourages city charters to use a citywide, third-party enrollment lottery, and 85% do, Peterman said, a fact that eliminates any question of bias, discrimination or cherry-picking in those schools because the schools do not control who gets selected, or manage waitlists. Franklin Towne does not use that centralized lottery.

Peterman also said the organization encourages all of its members to review their own enrollment policies and practices to ensure they are following Pennsylvanias Charter School Law and they are above reproach.

The Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools said it was deeply alarmed by the allegations, and was working with Franklin Towne administrators to ensure that the lottery process moving forward gives every applicant an equal opportunity to be admitted to the school.

Charter schools were created to give children the opportunity for a high-quality education regardless of their zip code, the coalition said in a statement.

Franklin Towne itself addressed the allegations in a letter sent to families and posted on the schools website Sunday night. CEO Brianna ODonnell said that Franklin Towne has hired a highly reputable independent external agency to conduct an investigation and promised more information when the investigation was completed.

Franklin Towne Charter High School is a public school. Not only is my administration dedicated to providing a fair and unbiased enrollment process for all applicants, Pennsylvanias Charter School Law requires we do so, ODonnell wrote.

The law, however, limits school districts ability to enforce rules on charters, said Susan DeJarnatt, a law professor at Temple University Beasley School of Law. While districts are charged with approving or denying new charters and deciding whether to renew them, charters can challenge those decisions before a state appeals board  a step Franklin Towne pursued in a dispute with the Philadelphia School District in 2018.

Amid concerns that Franklin Townes high school and elementary schools didnt reflect the citys demographics, the former School Reform Commission said it would allow Franklin Towne to open a new middle school only if it met certain conditions  including setting aside seats for students from particular zip codes, and also reducing its proposed enrollment.

Charter schools are funded by districts based on how many students they enroll, and Franklin Towne argued the enrollment reduction made its proposed school financially nonviable. It won before Pennsylvanias Charter Appeals Board. The charter operator then struck a deal with the district in 2019: Instead of opening a middle school, it got permission to add seats at its existing schools.

The Philadelphia district has been reluctant to litigate charter disputes, DeJarnatt said, who has argued for a more forceful approach.

She also said state law needs to be strengthened, including rules for when a school district can close a charter school.

During a staff meeting last week, ODonnell sought to reassure teachers that the schools charter wasnt in jeopardy, according to a recording of the event reviewed by the Inquirer.

Even if there was something that happened with the lottery, said ODonnell  who took over for former CEO Joe Venditti, who resigned on Feb. 27  your job, your employment, the school itself is not in any danger, OK?
Five Democrats are running for Montgomery County commissioner in the May 16 primary: (top row, left to right) Neil Makhija, Jamila Winder, and Kimberly Koch. (Bottom row, left to right) Noah Marlier and Tanya Bamford. Read more

Five Democrats are running for Montgomery County commissioner this year  the most in modern history. And theres plenty of internal strife to show for it.

More than a decade after Democrats won control of the three-member governing board, the party is experiencing the growing pains that come with success.

The May 16 primary election is a test of the Democratic machine at a time when political parties in Pennsylvania and across the country have been weakened and challenged from within.

Since at least 2000, theres been only one other Democratic primary in which there were more than two candidates on the ballot  in 2019, a little-known candidate unsuccessfully challenged the two incumbents.

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I think its a maturation process in the party, said county Sheriff Sean Kilkenny, a Democrat whos up for reelection this year. With Republicans struggling to compete in countywide elections, he said, Now all the action is on the Democratic side.

Thats playing out as the county  the third biggest in the state  faces a leadership shake-up. Val Arkoosh resigned as commissioner to join Gov. Josh Shapiros administration in January, and fellow Democrat Ken Lawrence Jr. isnt seeking reelection. The board manages a budget greater than $500 million and administers elections  a task expected to be in the spotlight in next years presidential race.

Theres only one party-endorsed commissioner candidate: Jamila Winder, a former local elected official who in January was appointed to serve the remainder of Arkooshs term. Rank-and-file activists declined party leaderships recommendation to endorse a second candidate.

Four other candidates are running: Kimberly Koch, a teacher and Whitpain Township supervisor whom Winder selected as her running mate; Tanya Bamford, a marketing executive and Montgomery Township supervisor; attorney Neil Makhija, who leads a South Asian civic group; and county prothonotary Noah Marlier, a municipal lawyer.

On the Republican side, incumbent commissioner Joe Gale is facing challenges from businessman Tom DiBello and Liz Ferry, a vice president for the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia.

Two Democrats and two Republicans will advance to the November general election. Democrats are likely to maintain control of two of the commissioner seats, given their advantage in voter registration. The third seat is reserved for the minority party.

Running mates hope to make history

Winder, 44, of Norristown, and Koch, 40, are highlighting the historic nature of their campaigns  noting that if they win, it would be the first time the board of commissioners was led by two women. Winder is also the first Black woman to serve as commissioner.

We relate so much over being working moms, Koch said. We balance each other really well.

They say their priorities include addressing staffing shortages and expanding affordable housing.

Theyre getting support from influential party officials and lawmakers, as well as the influential and deep-pocketed Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council.

But theyve also faced backlash from some Democratic activists who say Winders selection of a running mate undermines the partys decision not to endorse for the second seat.

Winder, an executive with a digital medical education company, says she tapped Koch because shed be her best governing partner, and her allies say the selection of a running mate was consistent with past practice.

Ive been an executive for 20 years, hiring the best and brightest talent with the organizations Ive worked with. I know good talent when I see it, Winder said.

Asked about the tenor of the campaign, she said, Its been unfortunate how contentious its been, and how Ive been treated as the first Black woman [commissioner].  Im channeling Michelle Obama here. When they go low, I go high.

Rendell, Fetterman weigh in

Frustration with the process has helped create an opening for other candidates like Makhija, 36, of Lower Merion.

At the partys convention in February, Makhijas allies successfully pushed for a so-called open primary in which no candidate gets official party support.

Makhija, who teaches election law at the University of Pennsylvania and leads an Indian American civic and political group would be the first Asian American county commissioner in the state if elected, and has been endorsed by U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, former Gov. Ed Rendell, and former U.S. Rep. Allyson Schwartz.

I wish overseeing elections were boring. I wish it were administrative. I wish we just counted the votes and counted the winner, and thats it, Makhija said during a forum last month. But unfortunately, Republicans have realized that thats not their path to power anymore. And so its really important to have someone who understands all of the facets that come to play.

Makhija has faced questions from some Democrats about his political ambitions and the fact that he moved a couple years ago from Philadelphia to Lower Merion.

Makhija said he and his wife, who grew up in Lafayette Hill, moved to the suburbs because this is where were going to raise our family, adding that hes focused only on this election.

Prothonotary would prioritize housing policies

Other candidates are leaning into their governing experience and hometown roots.

Marlier, a former Peace Corps volunteer and Montgomery County assistant district attorney, was elected county prothonotary in 2019.

He says he used his authority to make sure tenants facing eviction could file appeals during the pandemic, despite courthouse closures, adding that hed prioritize housing security as commissioner.

I can hit the ground running on day one. And I think thats really, really important, considering the fact that were losing our two commissioners that have been so experienced and have guided the county for the last number of years, Marlier said.

Some Democrats have raised questions about Marliers work with a political action committee associated with his law firm  Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin  which has historically supported Republicans.

Marlier said he took on a leadership role with the PAC to try to get my firm to support Democrats.

I have never given a dime to a Republican, he added.

Township supervisor got into politics after 2016

Bamford, 54, is a marketing executive and former small-business owner who led the Montgomery Township Board of Supervisors for three years.

She decided to run for local office after Donald Trumps 2016 election, becoming the first Democrat elected to the supervisor board the following year.

Bamford said she would focus on the nuts and bolts of governing  starting with hiring and retaining a talented workforce amid staffing shortages.

She said her experience in business and leading a municipality make her a good fit for the job.

When Im elected, Im not doing this as a stepping stone to some higher office. I aspire to be commissioner, Bamford said. Ive got the right skill set to be an awesome commissioner. I want to serve my community in this capacity.  And I hope to retire in this role.
A 12-year-old boy has died and his mother and sister are in critical condition after a fire swept through a Maple Shade apartment complex Sunday evening, displacing nearly two dozen families, police said.

The fire began just before 10:30 p.m. at the Fox Meadow Apartments on Adams Drive, where officials said they evacuated residents as flames and heavy smoke billowed from the complexs roof.

The cause of the blaze is under investigation, police said. Three other people were hospitalized for smoke inhalation, but are in stable condition, according to Maple Shade Township Police.

The fire displaced 22 families, according to Red Cross New Jersey. As of Monday morning, the agency said it had provided temporary lodging, food, and clothing to 40 people, and will continue assisting others throughout the day.

Officials did not disclose the identity of the 12-year-old boy, but said grief counselors were in schools Monday. In a message to the community, Maple Shade School District administrators said crisis teams were available at the schools to support students and their families.

Please keep our Maple Shade families in your thoughts and prayers, they wrote.
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HARRISBURG  When Josh Shapiro pitched his first budget as Pennsylvanias governor during a nearly hour-and-a-half speech in March, the Democrat didnt say COVID or coronavirus.

But Shapiros budget responds to the pandemic, which has exposed weaknesses in the states public health system, by proposing more funding for local health departments. Those agencies were on the front lines of responding to the coronavirus, and advocates say they have been underfunded for years.

His pitch for the Department of Health also revealed other priorities, including addressing the deaths of Black mothers through a small new and targeted investment.

The proposal also looks to the future by proposing a 20% tax on adult-use cannabis  which advocates see as a powerful symbol that the issue is important to the new administration. But they also know it comes with no guarantee that the legislature will actually approve legalization.

That particular change could impact a wide range of public health issues, including emergency room visits and poison control center calls. It would also give an alternative option to hundreds of thousands of patients who now need a doctors permission at least once a year to participate in the states medical program.

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As lawmakers face a June 30 deadline to pass a final budget, heres a closer look at those three measures, what Shapiros proposing, and how they would affect health care in the state.

Local health departments

The coronavirus, in many ways, dominated state politics for much of former Gov. Tom Wolfs final years in office. Shapiros Democratic predecessor issued more than a dozen vetoes related to the pandemic, a Spotlight PA analysis found. And in 2021, voter referendums pushed by GOP lawmakers put new limits on a governors emergency powers.

The coronavirus hasnt received as much attention as newly reported cases and deaths have dropped nationwide. But the states acting health secretary, Debra Bogen, and some public health advocates said the pandemic highlighted long-standing gaps in the states public health infrastructure.

Making sure health departments are fully funded prepares us for things we cant predict and helps just overall create a healthier Pennsylvania, Antoinette Kraus, executive director of the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, a consumer advocacy organization, told Spotlight PA.

Shapiros budget proposes an increase for county and municipal health departments that would give $1.2 million more to their operating budgets and an additional $6.6 million for initiatives that address water pollution, food safety, and other health concerns.

Seven counties in Pennsylvania have their own health departments: Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Erie, Montgomery, and Philadelphia. Four cities  Allentown, Bethlehem, Wilkes-Barre, and York  operate their own, as well. In its budget materials, the Shapiro administration said more than 40% of Pennsylvania residents live in a county or municipality served by a local health department. The budget also includes funding for a planned new health agency in Lackawanna County, a Shapiro spokesperson told Spotlight PA.

During a budget hearing, State Rep. Eric Nelson (R., Westmoreland) noted that his county does not have its own health department and said hes concerned about giving a massive increase to a relatively small number of counties and cities.

It appears were building silos versus breaking them down, Nelson said.

Local health agencies do work that otherwise would fall to the state government, Bogen replied during the hearing, arguing that dividing responsibilities among local and state officials seems to work.

Budget materials from the governors office say other proposals  such as increased mental health funding and initiatives to recruit and retain workers  respond to problems exacerbated or highlighted by the pandemic.

Local health leaders told Spotlight PA that their offices are able to quickly address problems that arise in their communities, and the proposed increases in funding would offer stability to their offices, since support from various grants, and other sources varies year to year.

COVID showed that we need to have a strong infrastructure if were going to handle the next thing that comes down the pike, David Damsker, director of Bucks Countys Health Department, told Spotlight PA.

Black maternal health

During Shapiros budget address, he described a rising maternal mortality rate in Pennsylvania and nationally, and noted that Black women are at greater risk for pregnancy-related deaths, an inequity he called unacceptable.

The first step is understanding why that is happening, Shapiro said. So for the first time ever, we are going to put real resources into studying exactly that  so we can make concrete investments to address this disparity.

His budget proposes a modest amount of new funding aimed at building off of the work of the Pennsylvania Maternal Mortality Review Committee. Lawmakers created that group in 2018, and tasked it with reviewing pregnancy-related deaths and developing prevention strategies.

Shapiros budget calls for $2.3 million to implement strategies and recommendations from the committee, and his administration says it could leverage that additional state funding to receive $1.25 million more in federal funds. The proposed state money would be used to establish a Division of Maternal Health in the Health Department.

During one budget hearing, acting Health Secretary Bogen referred to the proposed $2.3 million as a great start. State Rep. Gina Curry (D., Delaware) told Spotlight PA the proposal is an initial investment and an acknowledgment that we havent seen in the past.

While pregnancy-related deaths are rare, research shows they are often preventable, and maternal health advocates say they have a large impact.

When moms die, it has a ripple effect  and lasting effect on children  on support people, on families, communities, and, quite frankly, the entire human race, said Sharee Livingston, an obstetrician and gynecologist in Lancaster County, during recent testimony in Harrisburg.

The number of pregnancy-associated deaths rose in Pennsylvania from 84 in 2013 to 102 in 2018, according to a state Health Department report from 2020. Pregnancy-associated deaths are defined as ones that occur while a person is pregnant or up to one year from the end of the pregnancy, regardless of the cause.

Non-Hispanic Black people accounted for a disproportionate share of pregnancy-associated deaths, the 2020 report found. They accounted for 14% of births in Pennsylvania during the six-year time period reviewed, but they represented 23% of the pregnancy-associated deaths.

Every year we experience an overwhelming loss in Black maternal mortality, Curry said during a recent Capitol rally. And the research shows that we are losing the fight ultimately because of the racial disparities that continue to haunt the very experience that is supposed to bring joy and autonomy.

In interviews and public comments, some lawmakers and maternal health advocates have called for broader changes to address systemic issues, including diversifying the medical ranks and expanding Medicaid to cover doulas who provide physical and emotional support to pregnant people.

Under Wolf, Pennsylvania opted into a change that advocates say can help improve maternal health and address racial disparities: extending pregnancy-related coverage through Medicaid from 60 days after a childs birth to 12 months. A Shapiro spokesperson said the governors budget continues that extension.

Doulas cannot currently be directly paid by Pennsylvanias Medicaid program, according to Department of Human Services spokesperson Natalie Scott. But she said the agency is working to expand their availability.

Advocates say change is needed  and possible.

There are solutions. This isnt a problem that we cant fix, Livingston, a founding board member of health advocacy group Patients R Waiting, told Spotlight PA. We just have to remain steadfast on the solutions and commit to them.

Marijuana

Cannabis for adults 21 and older is already legal in New York and New Jersey. Maryland plans to launch its adult-use program in July, and Delawares governor in April allowed adult-use legislation to become law without his signature.

But the future of legalization in Pennsylvania is unclear.

Many state House Democrats are pushing legislation that would legalize adult use, but the caucus has a narrow majority. A caucus spokesperson told Spotlight PA proposals for adult use cannabis and proposals for taxation will be discussed over the course of budget negotiations but didnt make any commitments.

Republicans control the state Senate, and only two GOP legislators in that chamber have publicly come out in support of adult-use legalization.

State Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R., Indiana) recently declined to say whether the legislature was likely to modify the medical program or legalize adult use. But he emphasized that marijuana remains illegal at the federal level.

This is something, at the end of the day, the federal government is going to have to address head-on, Pittman said in April. I think the state-by-state policies make it very difficult from a law enforcement perspective to maintain consistency in how we handle drug enforcement policy.

Despite those headwinds, Shapiros budget proposes a 20% tax on the wholesale price of adult-use cannabis products, and it assumes sales will begin at the start of 2025. Such a tax would eventually bring more than $188 million to the state annually, according to his administrations revenue estimates.

Shapiros predecessor, Wolf, advocated for adult-use legalization in his final budgets but did not include specific rates or revenue projections.

Meredith Buettner, executive director of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition, an industry group, sees the taxs inclusion in Shapiros budget as a powerful symbol of support and an impetus to get the ball rolling, to get it done. She thinks an adult-use bill would need to pass by the end of 2023 to meet the 2025 sales goal in Shapiros budget.

Shapiros adult-use legalization proposal wouldnt affect revenue for the budget lawmakers must pass by the end of June, and his budget package did not go into details about what an adult-use program would look like in Pennsylvania. It doesnt address employment rights for cannabis users, protections against improper DUI arrests, expungements of prior convictions, and a host of other issues.

Bogen told lawmakers she had not seen a specific proposal for adult-use cannabis. But the health secretary said she wants to ensure the medical marijuana program  which she described as very successful  continues to serve people who wouldnt access cannabis through an adult-use program.

Its going to take a lot of stakeholders at the table really talking about how we make those programs work together, Bogen said during a state Senate budget hearing in April.

The impact of adult-use legalization is broad: The change could affect workplace policies, traffic safety, and other issues, according to a 2021 analysis from Pennsylvanias Independent Fiscal Office. But the offices director, Matthew Knittel, also noted that there are potential cost-savings associated with legalizing adult-use cannabis, including fewer public safety resources being dedicated to marijuana arrests.

Pennsylvania lawmakers in 2016 approved legalizing medical marijuana. Dispensaries have since reported $4.4 billion in sales, and there were more than 425,000 active certifications for patients as of late March. For next years budget, Shapiros administration estimates the medical marijuana program will bring in $37.5 million from a tax on sales to dispensaries, plus nearly $17 million from patient identification card fees.

In Pennsylvania, the state charges patients an annual fee of $50 for a medical marijuana card, although it waives the fee for some patients with financial hardships. At least once a year patients need a physician to approve them for the program, and those renewals sometimes cost $100 or more. Still, a medical program could have cost benefits for consumers, as states typically impose a lower tax rate on medical cannabis sales than recreational ones.

Across the country, legalizing recreational cannabis use is associated with declining enrollment in medical cannabis programs, according to findings published in the International Journal of Drug Policy last year.

The authors said their findings may be of public concern for a few reasons: People could be exaggerating symptoms in states where medical cannabis programs are the only legal option. Or, the authors wrote, people might be using cannabis for medical reasons in adult-use states, but opt out of doing so with any medical oversight.

While some cannabis advocates are pleased adult-use legalization made it into Shapiros budget proposal, they also worry lawmakers wont make the issue a priority.

People have to realize the urgency of the situation and the necessity for change, said Les Stark, executive director of the advocacy group Keystone Cannabis Coalition.

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.
Cape Town residents are risking their lives by sleeping outside the Beautiful Gate offices, just to be first in the queue for assistance.

They arrive from as early as 3 pm the previous day to secure their spot. Some sleep on the pavement while others sit on old chairs and buckets.

These beneficiaries say they are tired of being sent back home without receiving assistance, so they have decided to take matters into their own hands.

One beneficiary, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of not receiving assistance, stated, "I have been sent back a few times because I arrived in the morning around 4 am, I was shocked to find that there are people who sleep here so that they can be first in the queue.

"I decided to do the same because I need the money."

Mzimasi Mateza, 40, is among those sleeping outside the offices. He calls on Sassa to find them a safer place for them to sleep, saying, "Sassa needs to ask the Beautiful Gate to give us the hall inside so that we can sleep because it's cold and too dangerous.

"Sassa employees are not sympathetic to our plight, with some being moody and complaining about the system's slow pace."

Nomakholwa Matikinca, 43, slept outside the offices even though she had an appointment, stating, "It doesn't matter if you have the appointment or not, they don't hesitate to send you back home. Hence I opted on coming and sleeping here."

Sassa spokesperson in Western Cape, Shivan Wahab, said that the Sassa Gugulethu office has a significant demand for services linked to a high influx of clients.

"Based on this, Beautiful Gate began operating as a fixed site in March 2022. The site is operational like all other Sassa offices, from Monday to Friday daily and is an extension of services to cater to the high demand in the community."

She said that sleepovers are never an option for any Sassa client. "Sassa has been reiterating the hazard of this practice to clients."

According to her, the appointment system was introduced to mitigate long waiting periods in the equally long queue. At no point should any client have to sleep over at any contact point for access to services.

"Clients have the option of accessing the Sassa office most convenient to them. Alternatively, Sassa introduced an online application system during Covid-19 to make services more accessible," said Wahab.
Ngara  KAGERA residents as well as other Tanzanians have a reason to smile following the long-awaited Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project (RRFHP) reaching 99 per cent to completion and expected to be launched soon.

Making the revelation here in an interview with the 'Daily News' on Sunday, Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (TANESCO) Kagera Regional Manager Engineer Godlove Mathayo said that he was confident that once the hydropower project is completed, it will enhance socio-economic growth, reinforce regional cooperation, partnership and peace within the East African region.

"The project is a good initiative that will improve the socio-economic benefits. Once operational, it will bring 80 MW of renewable, clean, relatively low-cost power to the national grids of Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania with each country benefitting from about 27 MW," he said.

Elaborating, he tipped the residents of Kagera, Geita and Kigoma regions as well as other Tanzanians to grab the attractive investment opportunities, which come with its implementation, especially to increase production of cash and food crops to enable the nation to get raw materials needed in the industrialisation drive.

The region is directly bordering three East African Community (EAC) countries - Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi while Kenya can also be reached through Lake Victoria.

The region is also a gateway to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a combined market of around 300m/-. This is a big opportunity to increase our trade relations.

He, however, cautioned people surrounding the project to avoid extravagant usage of water from the Kagera and Ruvubu rivers to avoid damaging the Rusumo water dam.

Implementation of the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric project will enhance regional cooperation, support sustainable management of the Kagera River Basin, promote growth and poverty reduction and also manage environmental aspects.

The project will address the acute shortage of electricity experienced by the three countries, which negatively affect their economies.

Once operational, the project will generate 80 MW of renewable clean energy, relatively low-cost power to the national grids of the three countries shared equally, with each country receiving an additional 165 GWH per year.

The additional power will benefit about 1,146,000 people in the three countries- 520,000 in Burundi (5.4 per cent), 159,000 in Tanzania (0.34 per cent) and 467,000 in Rwanda (4 per cent).

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"Shortage of electricity in these countries and indeed the entire Nile Basin region has resulted into an underdeveloped manufacturing sector, hence limited options for business development necessary for income, reduced dependency on toxic fuel and limited opportunities for modernising and improving the quality of key infrastructure including health care, water supply and other social services.

Electricity power is a catapult which Tanzanians should utilise by establishing medium and large industries," he said.

The World Bank (WB) donated US 340million dollars for the construction of the power plant while the African Development Bank (ADB) had donated US 128.6million dollars for construction of transmission lines.

The Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project is a hydropower project under joint development by the governments of Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania through a commonly owned Rusumo Power Company (RPCL).

The joint development was entered by the three governments through a Tripartite Agreement signed on 16th February, 2012. The project is located at Rusumo Falls at the common border of Rwanda and Tanzania on River Kagera.
I am a firm believer in the power and strength of diversity, inclusion, and belonging. The more we can bring together people with different experiences, ideas, and backgrounds and create environments where everyone feels safe to contribute, the better the outcomes will be  both for businesses and society as a whole. I am enormously proud of our partnership with SSI and the support that we have given to over 280 young people of refugee backgrounds to achieve independence in Australia.
The release said the insurance launch is supported by a Series C $125 million funding round in late 2021. According to the Corporate Finance Institute, this round of funding is the fourth stage of startup financing and usually the last stage of venture capital financing.
Effectively managing cyber risks enhances an organisation's ability to avoid, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. However, it is also imperative to demonstrate to insurers that your business has a robust risk management system in place to secure the most appropriate coverage that meets the needs of your business. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, insurers now demand increasing levels of risk management from businesses seeking coverage.
77% intend to travel more over the next 12 months, whether its for business or leisure

91% want to take a vacation

89% cite at least one source of stress while travelling

58% have experienced a travel-related incident, such as cancelled flights or lost or damage baggage

After several years of missing out on travel, Canadians are looking forward to travelling again, said Bishop. Weve always ensured our travel insurance meets the needs of Canadians by offering affordable plans to suit any budget so that everyone can enjoy worry-free travel.
Monarch E&S is pleased to acquire the business of Virginia-based Commonwealth Underwriters, said Derek Borisoff, CEO of Monarch E&S. Barry and Julia Scott have built a highly regarded organization. Their reputation with both retail broker customers and binding markets coincides perfectly with Monarch E&Ss operating philosophy. We look forward to working with Barrys team to make the overall organization even better.
Aguilera and his team have developed a customized implementation work product that adapts to the unique requirements of each client, Liberty said. For example, their process resulted in a 785 claim closure rate in the year incurred. The product has also reduced clients pure loss rate by up to 35% in the first year, and the severity rate decreased by up to half the cost of previous years despite increased claim frequency.
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Not a day goes by that a new way to use artificial intelligence (AI) fails to make the daily headlines. AI-powered tools seem to be making their mark on every business sector, including the healthcare industry.

AI opportunities in healthcare  such as helping to identify patient needs, documenting patient notes, and even diagnosing certain disease  seem endless. While AI brings exciting opportunities, it also has risks.

Digital tools in healthcare have skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic.

The number of telehealth services increased dramatically  15 times the pre-pandemic level, from 2.1 million the year prior to 32.5 million in the 12 months from March 2020 to February 2021, according to data from the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

Healthcare executives are increasingly prioritizing digital automation technologies, according to a recent report from Sage Growth Partners showing that 90% of healthcare executives had an AI or automation strategy in place today. That percentage was up from 53% in 2019. The same study showed that 76% of respondents said automation has become more important because it can help patients recuperate faster by cutting wasteful spending and improving efficiency.

Everyone is talking about AI but in healthcare specifically were seeing these tools being integrated like in a variety of different sectors, Ellie Saunders, healthcare team leader, U.S. and Canada at CFC, told Insurance Journal.

The biggest sector of CFCs digital healthcare portfolio is telemedicine  largely due to its reliance on well-established and widely accessible technology. However, AI has seen 32% growth in 2021, Saunders said.

Artificial intelligence is now being used to help in triaging some patient conditions, most commonly by diagnosing basic illnesses via a chatbot function. Another way AI is helping doctors is with medical scribing, which is an AI-powered tool that provides doctors with automated transcribing of patients comments while the doctor is consulting with that patient. This digital tool essentially helps to streamline their workflows and efficiency, enabling them to focus on the actual practice of medicine rather than spending most of the time documenting and writing up notes, she said.

One concern that underwriters worry about is that the medical scribe gets things wrong, Saunders said. She said some research shows that AI scribing doesnt always correctly transcribe uh-mmm terms instead of yes responses.

Obviously that can mean a lot in a conversation, but if the scribe doesnt pick that up, it can completely alter their medical record, she added. So, doctors are still having to read through the scribe notes just to ensure it is in line with what theyve actually encountered.

But medical records are a logical place to begin because clinicians can quickly identify where AI-produced results were derived, according to Dr. Greg Ator, chief medical informatics officer at University of Kansas Health System, who is part of the team implementing generative AI technology at the academic health system to aid clinician note taking. Doctors can listen to a visit recording again if the AI misses valuable information.

Right now, its not the most efficient way to take medical notes but Saunders says the hope is to make these AI-tools better in the future.

But there are barriers to improving some AI-powered technologies going forward.

Pete Reilly, practice leader and chief sales officer of global insurance brokerage Hub Internationals North American healthcare practice, says while the healthcare industry will become more dependent on AI in the future simply because the technology can handle all those data points so much more quickly and efficiently than the human brain, the challenge will be with the data itself. Its the old analogy of garbage in, garbage out, he said. If theres any malfunction along the line, for example a wrong computer code or inaccurate data, then everything else goes wrong with it, he said.

Even so, Reilly sees great opportunity for the sectors use of AI-powered tools in the future. Healthcare is an inefficient system by design. The human body is inefficient, and in many respects, theyre not the same, he said. But having said all that, I do see a continued use and need of use in healthcare, he added. AI will let us capture and begin to understand massive quantities of data more quickly, and that hopefully leads to long term better medicine.

One hurdle to expanding AI use is patient acceptance. A Pew Research Center survey conducted in December found 60% of adult U.S. patients would feel uncomfortable if their healthcare provider relied on AI for their medical care. Less than a third felt the quality of their care would increase as AI was implemented.

Another hurdle lies in capturing accurate data from all patients. Some research shows that current medical data may be lacking in terms of diversity among various ethnic groups.

While doctors have used several different algorithms to try to capture the true risk of stroke for years, including newer models that use machine learning, a new analysis, led by researchers at Duke University School of Medicine, found that with all models studied  ranging from simpler algorithms based on self-reported risk factors to novel machine learning models  the accuracy of predicting a stroke was worse for Black men and women than their white peers. The Duke researchers concluded that Black Americans  who have a much higher probability of suffering from a stroke  are also less likely to get an accurate prediction of their stroke risk.

The data that you get out of something is really only as good as the data you put in and thats probably one of our biggest concerns as insurers in the space, Saunders said. We as underwriters want to make sure that this data set that is providing diagnostics is based off real data and that theyve got enough of good data, for it to not be biased data, she said.

Certainly, hospitals think that AI can be helpful in delivery of care, said J. Kevin Carnell, executive chairman of CAC Specialtys newly launched healthcare division. Its obviously a very powerful tool that can run all sorts of scenario projections to help you diagnose a patient or uncover a potential issue on a patient, so thats great. But as weve seen, AI can be wrong, he said. Its ultimately the care provider who has the liability risk, so I dont think fundamentally that changes. I really dont know how its going to be used or how risky its going to be, but people are starting to talk about it.

Overall, CFCs Saunders believes the healthcare industry is going in the right direction to correct concerns over AI data and its use. There are controls that are being implemented and its definitely an area which is going to revolutionize the healthcare industry, she said.

Topics InsurTech Data Driven Artifical Intelligence
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A U.S. Army soldier wont get a new trial for his lawsuit against two police officers after he was pepper- sprayed, struck and handcuffed during a traffic stop in rural Virginia, a federal judge has ruled.

Video of the incident in the small town of Windsor got millions of views after Caron Nazario filed his lawsuit in 2021. For many, the stop highlighted fears of mistreatment among Black drivers and raised questions about reasonable police conduct.

Nazario, who was never arrested, sought $1 million in damages in his initial lawsuit. But in January, a jury in Richmond mostly sided with two police officers and awarded the soldier a total of $3,685.

Nazario almost immediately requested a new trial, claiming the jurys verdict was against the clear weight of the evidence, among other grounds.

U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young disagreed. In a ruling issued Wednesday, Young wrote that Nazario makes no showing that the jurys findings were not within their discretion.

The jury is at liberty to weigh the credibility of the evidence as it sees fit,  the judge wrote.

The officers repeatedly commanded Nazario to exit his SUV, with Gutierrez warning at one point that Nazario was fixing to ride the lightning when he didnt get out.

Nazario held his hands in the air outside the drivers side window and continually asked why he was being stopped.

Nazario also said: Im honestly afraid to get out.

You should be, Gutierrez responded.

Nazario stayed in the vehicle. Gutierrez went on to pepper-spray him through the open window. Once Nazario exited the SUV, the officers commanded him to get on the ground, with Gutierrez using his knees to strike Nazarios legs, the soldiers lawsuit stated.

In court documents, Nazario said he developed anxiety, depression and PTSD. A psychologist found that Nazario, who is Black and Latino, suffers from race- based trauma associated with violent police encounters.

Mr. Nazario recalls that he thought he was going to die that evening, his lawsuit stated.

Nazario sued Crocker and Gutierrez. Crocker was still on the force. But Gutierrez was fired in April 2021, the same month Nazario filed his lawsuit.

The men denied ever threatening to kill Nazario. They contended that Nazario misconstrued Gutierrezs statement that Nazario was fixing to ride the lightning. Gutierrez spoke those words while holstering his gun and drawing his Taser and was referencing his stun gun, not an execution, according to court filings.

Crocker and Gutierrez argued that they performed their duties within the law after Nazario failed to immediately pull over and refused to exit his vehicle. Plus, a federal judge already found they had probable cause to stop Nazario for an improperly displayed license plate, and to charge him with eluding police, as well as obstruction of justice and failure to obey.

In court filings, Gutierrez questioned the extent of Nazarios mental anguish and pointed out that the solider was still in the National Guard in the months leading up to the trial.

During the trial in January, the jury had to consider Nazarios allegations that he was illegally searched, assaulted, battered and falsely imprisoned.

The jury also awarded Nazario $1,000 in punitive damages for Crockers illegal search of Nazarios SUV. A federal judge had already ruled that Crocker was liable for the search.

But the jury found in favor of Crocker and against Nazarios claims of assault and battery and false imprisonment. The jury also found in favor of Gutierrez regarding the soldiers claims of battery, false imprisonment and illegal search.

While denying Nazarios request for a new trial on Wednesday, the judge acknowledged that reasonable persons could find for the soldier. But Young also wrote that the weight and credibility of the evidence wasnt enough to require the extraordinary step of overturning a jury verdict.

Young did agree with Nazario on one matter: Based on Virginia law, the soldier was owed compensatory damages on top of the $1,000 in punitive damages the jury awarded for Crockers illegal search.

Nazario was awarded $1 in nominal damages in order to vindicate his rights under the U.S. Constitution, the judge wrote.

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 Lawsuits Law Enforcement
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A Greek shipping company has pleaded guilty and agreed to pay $2.25 million for violations of environmental laws that were carried out by the captain and chief engineer of one of its oil tankers, federal prosecutors in Rhode Island said.

The Galissas, owned by Zeus Lines Management S.A., discharged nearly 10,000 gallons (about 37,000 liters) of oily bilge water directly into the ocean and failed to report a hazardous condition in the vessels cargo tanks to the U.S. Coast Guard last year, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in Providence, Rhoda Island.

The violations took place when the tanker was transporting a cargo of diesel from Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to Rhode Island, prosecutors said.

The vessels captain pleaded guilty to failing to report a hazardous condition in the vessels cargo tanks to the Coast Guard prior to the tanker entering the port of Newport, Rhode Island.

The vessels chief engineer pleaded guilty to knowingly discharging untreated oily bilge water directly from the tanker into the sea during the voyage.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Zeus $2.25 million penalty includes a fine of $1,687,500 and $562,500 for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to fund projects that benefit marine and coastal natural resources in Rhode Island.

Zeus will also be required to implement a robust environmental compliance plan when any of its vessels enter a U.S. port.

This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the health and safety of the marine environment, Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Departments Environment and Natural Resources Division said in a statement. The reckless actions of these defendants not only threatened the marine environment, but also the safety of this coastal community.

Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 8.

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 Pollution
Top Gear  POLITICAL stakeholders have hailed President Samia Suluhu Hassan for consistency in walking her talk in the implementation of national agendas.

On Saturday the President instructed the Registrar of Political Parties Judge Francis Mutungi to summon a special meeting for the Political Parties Council to evaluate implementation of recommendations by the Task Force formed to assess political climate and multipartyism in the country.

Dr Samia issued the directives during a meeting held at the Chamwino State House in Dodoma with regard to the process of re-writing the new Constitution.

Commentators indicated that the move was a continuation of the revolution, which she had earlier initiated in the political arena including the formation of the Task Force among other initiatives.

A seasoned Political Scientist from the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Richard Mbunda was of the view that the President has continued to demonstrate her true political will, which had attracted discussions in the past.

He expressed optimism that the discussion will demonstrate maturity in the entire process from the beginning onwards.

"I am optimistic that political parties' stakeholders will come up with concrete proposals contrary to the fact that the process was going to cease," said Dr Mbunda.

He, however, noted that the proposals should be in line with periodisation on how they hope the process should be moved.

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Such proposals should include when to begin the process and how it should proceed in order to move forward.

On his part, the National Chairman for United Democratic Party (UDP) Mr John Cheyo, disclosed that the President was sticking to her words to ensure that the entire process demonstrates the need for engagement of all stakeholders within the country.

According to him, summoning the Political Parties Council was in line with the requirement of the law, as the rightful platform for the group to channel their suggestions.

"The issue relating to the Constitution is a national agenda and not for independent parties...now they have reached out to political parties in the long run and I am sure other groups will be reached as well," said Mr Cheyo.

He urged fellow parties to go there and take part in the discussion taking into account that the agenda of the meeting has already been communicated.

The statement issued by the Director of Presidential Communications, Ms Zuhura Yunus, said the President meeting also focused on stakeholders' engagement in the process as well as citizens from both Mainland and Zanzibar.

She also observed that among issues which will be dealt with aside from the issue of the Constitution, will include various law reforms related to elections namely the law of Political Parties and Registrar of Political Parties.

Some of the government leaders who took part at the State House meeting included the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office (Policy, Coordination and Parliament) Ms Jenista Mhagama, Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs Dr Damas Ndumbaro and executives of various Institutions.
Off the coast of Malaysia, in one of the worlds busiest shipping channels, an explosion on board the aging oil tanker Pablo ripped off its deck like a sardine can and began a fire that sent dark plumes of smoke into the sky.

It was a tragic accident that could have been a much larger catastrophe. The Gabon-registered ship, capable of carrying some 700,000 barrels of crude oil, was coming through the South China Sea after offloading a cargo in China  and so was nearly empty. Out of its international crew of 28, officials report that 25 were rescued by passing vessels. The blast happened just beyond Singapores congested waters.

But for nearby maritime authorities, the headache has just begun. There is little evidence of the owner, a Marshall Islands-registered company whose fleet contains no other ships, and no trace of insurance. Both are vital for a clean-up to begin.

Burning Oil Tanker off Malaysia Rings Alarm Bells About Shadow Fleet

An Aframax-class crude oil tanker observed in Iranian waters last year, the Pablo underlines the risks that come with the expansion of a dark fleet of aging vessels moving sanctioned oil around the globe. Since the wave of sanctions that followed Russias invasion of Ukraine  including the price caps imposed by the Group of Seven, intended to limit oil cash going back to the Kremlin  observers in the oil trading community have reported the purchase of hundreds of old tankers by undisclosed buyers.

With limited details on who is responsible for this vessel, there has been no one to hold to account as it burned just 40 nautical miles off Malaysias Pulau Tinggi island. Oil, potentially from the wreck, has been reported washing up on Indonesias coast.

The Pablo casualty is tragic, and a stark reminder of what we have been saying all along: the shadow fleet poses a serious threat both to peoples lives and to the marine environment, said Rolf Thore Roppestad, chief executive officer of Gard AS, the largest of the protection and indemnity clubs that insure much of the worlds fleet against risks such as oil spills.

What worries me is that there are ships like these passing through high-traffic straits every day, he added. So the likelihood of more accidents like this happening is actually quite high.

The cause of the fire is still unclear, though its possible vapors from the remains of the oil cargo played a part. Regardless, when ships like the Pablo explode, the process of cleaning up the mess gets more difficult. Often, insurance companies, salvage businesses and various intermediaries begin dealing with the situation within a few hours of it happening.

But almost a week after this explosion, there is little sign of the insurer to get the process moving. The Pablo is not listed in an industry database of insured vessels, and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency did not answer questions on insurance.

In instances where shipowners are unknown, local authorities will often press the crew for more information as they are one of the few people who know where a vessels orders are coming from. It is unclear whether that has been possible.

If the owner cant be contacted, local authorities can seize the ship and try to cover what costs they can, according to Oon Thian Seng, founding partner of Singapore law firm Oon & Bazul LLP and at its associated Malaysian office, TS Oon & Partners LLP. However, its highly unlikely that selling whats left of the charred Pablo would cover the costs of removal.

The dangers the Pablo, and others like it, are clear from its history. The tanker was flying the flag of Gabon, which is a very small destination for vessel registration and falls outside of something called the Paris MoU, set up to promote safe shipping. It was built in 1997, meaning its far beyond the age at which most tankers are sold as scrap.

Further, had the Pablo been laden with its most recent cargo, that would have been a major spill of oil sanctioned by the US.

The tanker spent two months at a shipyard near Shanghai, but before that its last two voyages were to deliver crude to Chinese ports in Shandong province, ship tracking data monitored by Bloomberg show. Data analytics firm Vortexa identifies both cargoes as Iranian heavy crude, which is sanctioned.

For authorities in Singapore, one of the worlds busiest shipping hubs, the question is how to keep legitimate oil cargoes moving  while avoiding accidents like this one. The Maritime and Port Authority said it had requested the assistance of 20 vessels in the region to report any sighting of the Pablos three missing crew, and reported no disruption to traffic. Officials did not comment further.

Malaysian authorities said they suspended search operations on Friday evening as efforts havent turned up any sign of the crewmen. The explosion has made the ship unsafe to board, leaving it stuck off the countrys coastline for the time being.

The longer it stays there, the longer it remains a visible reminder of the risks that come with an expanding shadow fleet.

Sadly, its the crew, their families, and the coastal communities that are paying the price, Roppestad said.

With assistance from Ann Koh, Ravil Shirodkar, Eko Listiyorini, Norman Harsono, Alaric Nightingale and Julian Lee.

Related:

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Energy Oil Gas China
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at cybersecurity firm Lodestone Security and the broker Howden Tiger Fac.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

Beazleys Cyber Security Unit Lodestone Appoints Kizziah as CEO

Global cybersecurity firm Lodestone Security LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of specialist insurer Beazley, has named information security expert Alton Kizziah as its new chief executive officer, effective May 1, 2023.

Lodestone specializes in incident response, digital forensics, offensive security, and threat detection. As a subsidiary of Beazley, long a pioneer in the cyber insurance market, Lodestone is poised to support Beazley insureds even further in responding to some of the toughest security challenges that industries face today.

In his new role, Kizziah will lead a newly expanded senior leadership team in spearheading and extending the firms commitment to helping clients secure their business environment, detect threats, and respond to cyber incidents. In particular, Kizziah will be focused on establishing the platform, processes, and capacity to enable Lodestone to drive deeper engagement with existing Beazley clients, as well as developing Lodestone into an industry-recognized first-choice for cyber incident preparedness and response.

An information security executive with 22 years of experience delivering successful security solutions to clients on a global scale, Kizziah comes to Lodestone from MGT Consulting Group, where he served as executive vice president and general manager for the consultancys Technology Solutions Group. Prior to MGT, he held leadership positions with several preeminent security companies. A significant portion of his career has been spent in global roles, splitting time between the US and Europe.

A veteran of the US Army, Kizziah attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Kennesaw State University. He has held a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) credential for 15 years.

Beazley plc is the parent company of specialist insurance businesses with operations in Europe, United States, Canada, Latin America and Asia. Beazley manages seven Lloyds syndicates and, in 2022, underwrote gross premiums worldwide of $5.3 billion.

***

Howden Tiger Fac Taps Inigos Warne to Lead Terrorism & Political Violence Team

Howden Tiger Fac has announced the appointment of Sandy Warne to head up its Terrorism & Political Violence division, effective immediately.

Warne, who has more than 20 years of industry experience, brings a wealth of knowledge to the business. She began her career in 2002 and has since held a variety of roles specialising in Terrorism & Political Violence including with Munich Re Syndicate, Navigators and JLT. She joins Howden Tiger from Inigo where she held the position of Head of Terrorism and Political Violence & Aviation War.

Warne will be responsible for leading Howden Tiger Facs Terrorism & Political Violence division, building on the exceptional quality and success of the existing team. The appointment of Warne represents the business ability to attract market leading talent, as well as underlining its ambitious growth targets.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Cyber
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP)  Two workers were being treated for chemical burns Friday after one fell into a vat at a Grand Rapids electroplating plant, authorities said.

The Grand Rapids Fire Department was sent on a hazardous materials call at Advance Plating & Finishing around 1:20 p.m., Capt. Bill Smith said.

An employee had fallen into a container of sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, a caustic liquid, and sustained critical injuries, according to Smith. The second worker was hurt when he pulled the first one out.

The rescuer grabbed the first victim and suffered chemical burns, Smith said. Both were transported to the hospital.

When fire department crews arrived, the two were being showered off by co- workers, Smith said.

The company did not immediately respond to a phone message seeking comment Friday evening.

State occupational safety and health officials were notified of the accident, Smith said.

Topics Numbers Michigan
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  A man suspected of setting fires to Minneapolis mosques was indicted Thursday on federal charges of arson and damage to religious property while investigators look into a series of crimes targeting Muslims and Somali Americans.

Jackie Rahm Little, 36, was indicted by a federal grand jury for an April 24 fire at the Masjid Al-Rahma mosque. Authorities are also investigating him as a suspect in a fire that damaged the Masjid Omar Islamic Center inside a Somali shopping mall on April 23, as well as in the January vandalism of U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omars Minneapolis office and of a Somali American police officers vehicle, among other crimes, U.S. Attorney Andy Luger said at a news conference.

The freedom to worship is sacrosanct. We will respond to any attack on any house of worship with urgency and determination, said Luger, who noted that the charge accusing Little of damaging religious property is a civil rights violation.

Little pleaded not guilty at a brief hearing Thursday, where his attorney said he may seek an evaluation of his clients mental competency. Hennepin County court records show that Little had been committed as mentally ill three times in 2021 and 2022 but had been free recently on a provisional discharge that was formally revoked last Friday.

Little was arrested Saturday on a state charge of second-degree arson in the April 24 fire, which had prompted the evacuation of about 40 children from a day care at the Masjid Al-Rahma mosque.

Littles mother told investigators she recognized her son in video surveillance photos from the arsons and vandalism, according to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint. She also said she strongly suspected that Little was involved in several unreported arsons.

According to the affidavit, surveillance video captured Little entering the Masjid Al-Rahma mosque minutes before the fire.

Investigators later found cardboard, metal canisters designed to hold olive oil, and an odor consistent with gasoline in the third-floor hallway of the mosque, the affidavit said. The hallway and stairwells on both ends were damaged.

Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said in an interview with The Associated Press that he was at Masjid Al-Rahma at the time, discussing the previous days fire with an imam.

We were literally talking about the other incident when someone told them the mosque they were in was on fire, Hussein said. I could not believe it. Then I went up there and saw the smoke and fire.

The affidavit alleges that a day earlier, Little lit a cardboard box on fire in a bathroom of the Masjid Omar Islamic Center. An employee interrupted Little and chased him out of the building.

Littles mother also told law enforcement officials that her son extensively harassed a Muslim female, including by sending her a photo of the Quran in a toilet, according to the affidavit.

State Sen. Zaynab Mohamed, of Minneapolis, a Muslim and Somali American, said in an interview with the AP that people in the community have been frightened that the person who lit the fires would come back or try to attack other mosques.

Its alarming. Its scary for the community, she said.

She is pursuing legislation to expand data collection on hate crimes that she hopes will address the issue. Instead of leaving it solely to law enforcement to report data on bias crimes, the legislation would direct the state Department of Human Rights to also collect data from community organizations, school districts and individuals who might not report such incidents to law enforcement. The provision is part of a broad public safety budget proposal being considered by the Legislature.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Even though Berkshire Hathaways GEICO achieved a 93 first-quarter combined ratio, an enviable result measured against industry peers, the leader of Berkshires insurance operations said the figure is not a true indication of where the business is today.

Answering a question posed by a shareholder for the second year in a row at Saturdays annual meeting about GEICOs ability to catch up with competitors who had leapt out ahead of the personal auto insurer in leveraging telematics for pricing and risk selection, Ajit Jain, chair of Berkshires insurance operations, initially gave a positive assessment for GEICO on that score.

In fact, GEICO has certainly taken the bull by the horns and has made rapid strides in terms of trying to bridge the gap that existed previously, he said, noting that close to 90 percent of new business has a telematics input into the pricing decision.

Unfortunately, less than half of that is being taken up by the policyholders, he added.

"GEICO is still a work in progress." - Ajit Jain

He went on to say that even though GEICO is moving ahead on telematics, we still havent started to realize the true benefitand the real culprit, or the bottleneck, is technology. GEICOs technology needs a lot more work than I thought it did, Jain said, noting that the company has more than 600 legacy systems that dont really talk to each other.

He continued: Were trying to compress them to no more than 15, 16 systems that all talk to each other. Thats a monumental challenge, and because of that, even though we have made improvements in telematics, we still have a long way to go because of technology.

Because of that, and because of the whole issue more broadly in terms of matching rate to risk, GEICO is still a work in progress, he said, turning his attention to an explanation of the first-quarter combined ratio.

Even though thats very good, its not something we can take to the bank, he said, highlighting two unusual items that contributed to the improved first-quarter combined ratio: prior-year reserve releases and the fact that the first quarter tends to be a seasonally good quarter for auto insurance.

My guess is at the end of the year, GEICO will end up with a combined ratio just south of 100 as opposed to the target theyre shooting for96.

I hope they reach the target of 96 by the end of next year. But instead of getting too excited about it, I think its important to realize that even if we reached 96, it will come at the expense of having lost policyholders. There is a trade-off between profitability and growth. And clearly were going to emphasize profitability and not growth

So, it will not be until two years from now that well be back on track fighting the battles on both the profitability and the growth front, he said.

The text of the 10Q published over the weekend disclosed the actual amount of the prior-year reserve release$338 millionwhich shaved 3.5 points off of GEICOs first-quarter loss ratio. The report narrative also references the impact of higher average premiums charged per policy, a reduction in policies-in-force and lower claims frequencies as other factors behind an overall loss ratio decline of 6.5 points compared to first-quarter 2022.

GEICOs combined ratio improved more than 9 points to 92.7 compared to 101.9 in first-quarter 2022. Beyond the loss ratio improvement, the nearly 3 points of combined ratio improvement came from a 21.6 percent drop in underwriting expenses. The decreases were driven by a reduction in advertising expenses, the report said.

In spite of advertising expense cuts, a huge gecko was visible in scenes from the annual meeting shopping area broadcast on CNBC, along with Squishmallow likenesses of Berkshires chair and vice chair, Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. CNBC hosts explained that the Squishmallows are products of Jazwares, a U.S. toymaker that is one of the non-financial businesses owned by Alleghany Corp.

While Jain commented on GEICOs need for a tech overhaul, Buffett, in human form, took the opportunity to pick up on Jains remarks by taking a swipe at insurtech startups. He compared their lack of success to the overwhelming success of Berkshires now 10-year-old startup, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance.

There have been a lot of public companies created in the last decade, or thereabouts, in insurance, and theres none of them that we would like to own, Buffett said. They always started out in their prospectus saying, This is a tech company, not an insurance company.'

Of course theyre a tech company, Buffett continued. Every type of company, insurance or non-insurance, uses technology. But you still have to properly match rate to risk. And they invariably have reported the huge losses. Theyve eaten up capital, he said, contrasting BHSI as the only insurance company that he knows of that has started in the last years that has been successful.

Related article: Jain Talks Reinsurance; Berkshire Could Lose $15B in Florida

Now with $12 billion of float, the specialty insurance company that Jain and four other people set out to develop a decade ago has roughly 1,500 people around the world. We took on the whole industry, and we brought some unique talent, [and] we brought capital, and we brought capabilities that really only Berkshire could supply.

It was the combination of brains and talent and energy and money, he declared recalling that when Chief Executive Officer Peter Eastwood, a former AIG executive, started to build the company, there were many people in this space who didnt like us coming into the specialty insurance space. We did it without it costing us a dime of entry, he said, referring to lack of underwriting losses. And its been unmatched by any of the companies that went public, Buffett said.

In addition to singling out Eastwood, Buffett offered praise for Todd Combs, an investment manager who Buffett and Jain chose to lead GEICO a few months before a global pandemic changed the auto insurance landscape. Hes not all the way home in terms of shoring up GEICO, he said, agreeing with Jain, but added that Combs has changed GEICO in multiple waysa remarkable accomplishment under difficult circumstances.

EV Makers Hot to Trot

Auto insurance came up once again when an investor wanted to know what GEICO was going to do to compete against electric vehicles makers getting into insurance, specifically referring to insurance of EVs available from Tesla and GM.

Jain disclosed that GEICO is talking to a number of original equipment manufacturers to see if the auto insurer can work with auto makers to offer coverage at the point of sale, too. We are hopeful, too, that we will strike a deal with some of them before not too long, he said.

There havent been very many success stories as yet. So, well wait and see, he said, referring to the competition thats already out there. Although this is a very convenient way to sell auto insurance, he noted that theres a fair amount of data that needs to be collected on the driver, not just the car. And that makes it a little more complicated.

Referring to the fact that Tesla and GM have talked a lot about this in the press, and specifically referring to a projection of $3 billion of premium he heard from GM, Jain said, Its hard to imagine where it will come from. But theyre all hot to trot. I think somebody will find the secret sauce before not too long, and we ourselves are in that race.

Buffett went on to note, as he has done at past meetings, that selling insurance with cars is not a new idea. General Motors had Motors Insurance for decades, he said. Buffett went on to reference losses on a book of business that Uber laid off on James River Insurance some years back.

Its not a new idea. Its not magic in the leastIt is hard to come up with something that is better than matching risk to price than a bunch of very smart people that are doing it at Progressive, and a bunch of very smart people who are doing it to a greater extent at GEICO, he said.

Buffetts reference to GEICOs smarter group this year was a subtle departure from commentary at past events during which Jain and Buffett put Progressive ahead of GEICO in the skill of matching rate to risk.

Jain concluded the discussion this year noting that the margins on writing auto insurance, at 4 percent, are very small. Once there are more people that are trying to take a bite of the apple, it just becomes very, very difficult to keep all the mouths fed in a profitable manner, he said.

The subject of Teslaor more precisely, Teslas leader Elon Musk, came up later in the meeting when an investor asked Munger about a past remark he made about Musk overestimating himself. Still true?

Yes, I think he overestimates himself, but he is very talented. So, hes overestimating somebody who doesnt need to overestimate to be very talented, he said initially. Buffett and Munger then went on to highlight Musks ability to take on big risks.

He dreams about things, and his dreams have got a foundation, Buffett said.

He would not have achieved what he has in life if he hadnt tried for unreasonably extreme objectives. He likes taking on the impossible job and doing it. Were different. Warren and I are looking for the easy job that we can identify, Munger said.

We dont want to compete with Elon in a lot of things, Buffett said.

We dont want that much failure, Munger continued.

It takes over your life in a way that just doesnt fit usThey are going to be, well, there have been important things done by Elon already, and it requiresfanaticism isnt the word

Yeah, it is the word, said Munger.

Well, it isnt quite the word, but its a dedication to solving the impossible. And every now and then hell do it, countered Buffett. It would be torturous to me and Charlie, he said, concluded that neither he or Musk would enjoy being in the others shoes.

Old-Fashioned Intelligence and Atom Bombs

In addition to insurance, reinsurance, and Musks different approach to life, Berkshire executives addressed other hot topics, including one of Musks other interestsartificial intelligence. Specifically, one questioner asked whether Buffett and Munger believed that AI and robotics would have a positive and the negative impact on society.

If you went into BYDs factories in China, you would see robotics going at an unbelievable rate, said Munger, referring to a Chinese EV maker and Tesla rival in which Berkshire has invested. Were going to see a lot more robotics in the world.

I am personally skeptical of some of the hype that has gone into artificial intelligence, Munger continued. I think old-fashioned intelligence works pretty well.

There wont be anything in AI that replaces Ajit, Buffett said.

It can do amazing things, [but] it cant tell jokes, he added, noting that Bill Gates had introduced him to a recent version of AI. (Editors Note: This was possibly OpenAIs GPT, which Gates has recently written about in an item on his Gates Notes blog titled The Age of AI had begun.)

Still, Buffett referred to remarkable tasks the AI could take on, such as checking all the legal opinions since the beginning of time

It can do all kinds of things. But when something can do all kinds of things, I get a little bit worriedbecause I know we wont be able to uninvent it. And you know, we did inventfor very, very good reasonsthe atom bomb in World War II. It was enormously important that we did so. But is it good for the next 200 years of the world that the ability to do so has been unleashed? he asked.

Paraphrasing an insight from Albert Einstein, Buffett said that both the atom bomb and AI could change everything in the world except how men think.

Top photo: Ajit Jain, Vice Chairman of Insurance Operations for Berkshire Hathaway (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)

Topics Profit Loss
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Uber Technologies Inc.s former security chief was spared from prison for concealing a massive data breach in 2016.

Joe Sullivans sentencing to three years of probation Thursday followed his conviction by a jury last year of obstructing a government investigation and concealing the theft of personal data of 50 million customers and 7 million drivers.

Federal prosecutors had asked US District Judge William H. Orrick in San Francisco to to impose a 15-month prison term.

Related: Uber Executives Conviction Puts Spotlight on Secrecy About Hacking

The October 2016 hack stayed secret until the following November when it was disclosed by Ubers new chief executive officer, Dara Khosrowshahi, about three months into his tenure. At the same time, he fired Sullivan.

The judge was urged not to send Sullivan prison by about 50 current and former chief security officers from companies including Blackstone Inc., Netflix Inc. and the US government. In a letter to Orrick, they argued the penalty puts professionals and companies in jeopardy for making difficult decisions in unique security situations.

The job requires making nuanced judgment calls in a largely unregulated environment, which has few explicit rules and regulations, including rules about disclosing data security incidents to the government, according to the letter.

Sullivan, a former federal prosecutor who previously headed security at Facebook before his stint at Uber, is well-known in Silicon Valley as an expert in the field.

Ubers mishandling of the 2016 attack on its servers resulted in the company paying $148 million in a settlement with all 50 states, which at the time was the biggest data-breach payout in US history. Uber had previously been reprimanded by the Federal Trade Commission over a similar data breach from 2014.

Sullivans trial focused on cyber security management as well as a shakeup at Uber in 2017 when a series of scandals drove co-founder Travis Kalanick out as CEO. Jurors rejected Sullivans defense that other executives at the ride-hailing giant were aware of the 2016 hack and were responsible for it not being disclosed to regulators for more than a year.

Ahead of the sentencing, Sullivans lawyer, David Angeli, argued the crime he was convicted of represents a momentary lapse unlikely to ever be repeated, and resulting in no demonstrated harm, in contrast with a lifetime of hard work, achievement and volunteer work.

Sullivan has volunteered as a CEO of a non-profit providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine, according to Angeli, who shared with Orrick letters of commendation to Sullivan from Ukrainian defense officials.

Prosecutors argued that the many letters to the judge detailing Sullivans good deeds and qualities underscore that he knew how wrong his conduct was.

Prosecutors asked the judge to send a message with the sentencing so that every other well-connected corporate executive in cybersecurity and other fields knows that the sanction for such a failure will be significant and meaningful.

Sullivans conviction stands as shocking proof that even such a revered figure in his community will resort to criminal activity when his reputation is on the line and he thinks no one is watching, prosecutors said in a court filing.

Samuel Levine, the director of the Federal Trade Commissions bureau of consumer protection, said in a letter to Orrick that after Sullivan misled the agency, it had to reopen a closed investigation of Ubers data security and renegotiate an earlier 2014 agreement with the company stemming from a similar data breach.

The security officers who wrote in support of Sullivan voiced concern that executives in their roles could face unwarranted criminal and civil liability.

Security chiefs must present cybersecurity risks to top executives so that breach reporting and other such decisions are made by upper management and lawyers, not us, according to the letter. The fear of later second-guessing, or finding that a decision was wrong in retrospect, may interfere with our ability to respond quickly in a crisis, damaging our organizations and customers.

The case is U.S. v. Sullivan, 20-cr-00337, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California (San Francisco).

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Cyber
HOUSTON (AP)  Fire erupted at a petrochemical plant in the Houston area Friday, leaving five workers hospitalized and sending up a huge plume of smoke visible for miles.

Emergency responders were called to help around 3 p.m. at the Shell facility in Deer Park, a suburb east of Houston. The city of Deer Park said in an advisory that there was no shelter-in-place order for residents.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said five contracted employees were hospitalized for precautionary reasons, adding that they were not burned. He said they were taken to a hospital due to heat exhaustion and proximity to the fire.

Nothing exploded, Gonzalez said, although the sheriffs office initially responded to emergency calls saying there was an explosion.

As of Friday evening, the fire was still burning but had died down and was contained, Gonzalez said.

The cause of the blaze was still being investigated. Officials said they were monitoring the air for any impact from the fire but so far there was nothing that was concerning.

The fire at Shells Deer Park Chemicals facility started at about 2:56 p.m. in the olefins unit, the company said on Twitter. The product that ignited includes cracked heavy gas oil, cracked light gas oil and gasoline, according to Shell Deer Park.

The cause of the fire will be the subject of a future investigation, and our immediate priorities remain the safety of people and the environment, Shell Deer Park said.

Shell was conducting its own air quality monitoring, but the city has yet to receive an update, said Kaitlyn Bluejacket, a spokesperson for Deer Park. She said they have been advised by Shell that there is no need at the time to shelter in place, but that the city would update residents if that changed.

Fire crews from the plant, as well as nearby plants responded.

Wind conditions were favorable for fighting the blaze, although temperatures soared to near 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32.2 degrees Celsius) in the Houston area, but high humidity made it feeler hotter than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius.)

Harris County Fire Marshal Captain James Singleton said his office would be in Deer Park through the weekend and was working to figure out what happened.

Youre looking at a large number of people that need to be interviewed, Singleton said. Everyone who was at the unit at the time of the fire, the controllers, management, anybody that called 911.

Houston meteorologists said the smoke plumes were visible from space, via satellite.

Facility fires are not uncommon in the area, with the strong presence of the petrochemical industry. In March, an explosion and a fire erupted at a facility owned by INEOS Phenol in nearby Pasadena, Texas, leaving one injured.

A fire in 2019 at a facility owned by Intercontinental Terminals Company burned for days and though it caused no injuries, it triggered air quality warnings.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Numbers
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Goodwill Industries of Southeast Louisiana, Inc. has agreed to pay a former employee $60,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today. The lawsuit was resolved through a consent decree, which U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier approved on May 1.

According to the EEOCs lawsuit, Goodwill fired and denied rehire to an employee who suffered an ankle injury after recently being promoted to manager of a Goodwill store in New Orleans. The manager sought to return to work shortly after her injury, and when she had obtained a full release from her doctor, Goodwill told her she had been terminated. The manager reapplied for her position but was not rehired, the EEOC said.

The EEOC argued that Goodwills termination of the manager and refusal to rehire her were due to her ankle injury and in retaliation for requesting a reasonable accommodation. Such alleged conduct violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits disability discrimination and retaliation for asserting rights under the ADA.

The EEOC filed its suit (Civil Action No. 2:23-cv-1261) in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and the parties jointly moved to enter a consent decree to resolve the suit. Under the two-year decree, Goodwill will pay the former employee $60,000 in back pay and damages and will post a notice that affirms its obligations under the ADA.

Taking adverse employment actions due to perceived impairments and requests for accommo- dations violate the ADA, said Rudy Sustaita, regional attorney for the EEOCs Houston District Office.

Peter Theis, trial attorney in the EEOCs New Orleans Field Office, noted, We are pleased that the parties were able to quickly reach a resolution that is in the interest of justice.

Michael Kirkland, director for the EEOCs New Orleans Field Office, commented, Employees regarded as having disabilities by their employers are protected by the ADA, and employers must comply with the law.

Topics Lawsuits Louisiana
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When the Federal Emergency Management Agency unveiled its new Risk Rating 2.0 methodology for calculating flood insurance, advocates and critics alike warned that it would mean higher premiums for thousands of property owners, especially in low-elevation coastal areas.

Now, the full impact of the sticker shock is becoming clear, thanks to new data released by FEMA that shows price increases  and decreases  by county and by ZIP codes. For some parts of Florida, including the appropriately named Hell Gate on the East Coast, flood insurance will spike an average of 342%, according to the Miami Herald, which analyzed some of the data.

The most expensive ZIP codes in Florida include the Miami areas Key Biscayne, which will eventually see flood rates as high as $7,000 annually, on average, the Herald reported.

Most ZIP codes across the Southeastern U.S. will see some increase, the data show. In parts of Pensacola, in the northwestern part of Florida, the average flood premium will double, from $639 annually to $1,293. In Houma, Louisiana, southwest of New Orleans, the average premium will jump from $982 per year to $3,511.

And its not just coastal areas. Albany, Kentucky, ZIP code 42602, which has seen historic flooding in recent years, will see prices soar  from $741 to $4,597, on average, the FEMA data show.

But some spots will see decreases under RR 2.0, which is based less on FEMAs much-criticized flood maps and more on a multitude of factors, including rainfall levels, elevation, a homes distance from water, and rebuilding costs. In one St. Petersburg ZIP code, for example, more than 80% of policies will see a decrease in premiums, the data show.

Existing property owners wont feel the pain all at once. Federal law limits the rate increases to no more than 18% annually on renewals. For people buying new policies, though, the full impact will be painfully obvious. For the past year, FEMA has required new policies to be rated under RR 2.0.

Even before the FEMA data was broken down by ZIP code, some insurance agents have had a pretty good idea of the magnitude of the changes. For one policyholder in a flood zone in Palmetto Bay, Florida, his annual premium will eventually climb from just over $1,000 to almost $5,000, said Clayton Fischer, an agent with Blue Marlin Insurance in Coral Gables.

For a modest slab home in Homestead, Florida, with 1,700 square feet and a replacement value of $271,207, a policy through Wright Flood Insurance will come to about $2,300.

I have found private carriers to be not only competitive but, in some cases, more competitively priced than the NFIP RR2.0 policies, Fischer said.

He also noted that some prospective home buyers may not be aware of the soaring premiums. If the seller doesnt explain about the new rating system, which grandfathers in existing owners, buyers could easily assume that their rates will remain the same.

Florida homeowners with Citizens Property Insurance Corp. also will see significantly higher premiums this year. The Florida Legislature late last year required that all Citizens policyholders to buy flood insurance, regardless of the propertys locale.

The FEMA spreadsheet with all U.S. ZIP codes can be downloaded here.

Photo: People try and save valuables in a Fort Lauderdale neighborhood after torrential rains in April (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun-Sentinel via AP)

Topics Flood
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Federal officials presented a proposal Thursday to further control flooding in the Mississippi Delta, a move that comes after months of work from government agencies and decades of delays amid disputes over potential environmental impacts.

The south Deltas Yazoo Backwater area covers thousands of square miles, starting just north of Vicksburg and going up to where Mississippi Highway 12 bisects the Delta. The area has experienced significant flooding for many years, including a damaging 2019 flood that lasted several months, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Farmers, rural shopkeepers and Mississippi politicians from both major parties have long pushed for a proposed project to mitigate flooding that involves pumping water from parts of the south Delta. Flooding often occurs after rainfall feeds high waters in the Mississippi River.

Environmental groups have opposed the project for decades, arguing it would be too expensive and hurt wetlands to help agribusiness.

At a public meeting on Thursday in Onward, Mississippi, experts from the Corps and the Environmental Protection Agency presented what they called a preferred approach to water management in the Yazoo Backwater area.

The proposal would include the installation and operation of pumping stations, support for voluntary buy-outs for at-risk homes and help to elevate homes and build ring levees, according to a news release from the offices of Mississippis two Republican U.S. senators, Roger Wicker and Cindy Hyde-Smith.

Its a major step forward for South Delta residents who have been waiting decades for the federal government to keep its promise, and also, to protect them from flooding, Wicker said in the news release. This water management plan would help prevent nearly all the flooding that has destroyed homes and businesses, ruined crops, and devastated wildlife.

The proposal is a recommendation from the Corps and EPA that will be presented to the public for comment.

The overall approach is a major inter-agency effort that aims to provide flood risk reduction through a water management solution, Anna Owens, a spokesperson for the Corps Vicksburg District, said in an email. The plan also considers affected communities, agriculture, and the needs of fish, wildlife, and wetlands. 

After a public comment period, officials will revise the proposal before they unveil a finalized plan on June 30, she said.

The EPA vetoed an earlier version of the Yazoo Backwater Project project in 2008 under Republican President George W. Bush, which would have also included pumping water. The agency said adverse impacts on wetlands and their associated fisheries and wildlife resources are unacceptable.

The late Sen. John McCain, a Republican from Arizona, once called the pumps one of the worst projects ever conceived by Congress, and opponents have said pushing water out of the south Delta could cause worse flooding downstream along the Mississippi River.

Former EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said in April 2019 that the agency would reconsider the decision that blocked the project. But in 2021, the EPA overturned the projects approval, saying it was erroneously greenlit in the final days of the Trump administration.

Radhika Fox, assistant administrator for water at the EPA, had said the federal government wanted to work with the Corps and others to develop a proposal to address flooding concerns in an environmentally protective manner.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, celebrated the new proposal in a news release Thursday.

I dont need to tell Mississippi what this means for the Delta and for Mississippi, Reeves said. Once its implemented, this plan will be a big victory for Mississippians.

Photo: Flooding in 2019 near Yazoo City, Mississippi. (AP Photo/Holbrook Mohr, File)

FEMA Posts New Flood Rates by ZIP Code. Brace for Impact.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Agencies Flood New Markets Mississippi
The IFP is facing an internal revolt over who should be the face of the party in the general election next year -- Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi or party president Velenkosini Hlabisa.

Scrolla.Africa has learnt from reliable sources in the organisation that Hlabisa is fighting on another front over who should be the premier candidate for the party in KwaZulu-Natal. Here, he is facing off against provincial chairperson Thami Ntuli.

Members wearing T-shirts bearing Hlabisa's face on them will apparently be hauled over the coals. Ntuli had been mentioned as the person behind a plan to charge members wearing party regalia bearing Hlabisa's face.

This prompted a response from the IFP's national secretary, Siphosethu Ngcobo, who issued a strong memorandum to the party's district secretaries requesting them to submit a list of those members seen wearing regalia bearing Hlabisa's image instead of the ones with Buthelezi on them.

A memo that Scrolla.Africa has seen, dated 4 May, reads: "You are thus requested to submit the list and details of all members or persons within your district who are known to have worn or are wearing the regalia with the IFP logo that does not bear the face of the founder and President Emeritus Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, but of the sitting president, VF Hlabisa, in contravention of the party's resolution. The details are to be submitted to my office by the end of business on May 5."

A member who spoke to Scrolla.Africa on condition of anonymity said the aim of the campaign is to sideline Hlabisa. He said there is nothing wrong with wearing a T-shirt bearing Hlabisa's face, since he is party president.

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"We do not know of a resolution that prevents us from wearing regalia with the face of our president, but we know of a resolution that said we must dedicate 2021 to the founder and beyond."

Ngcobo said he had taken note of the attacks on the IFP and its founder in an internal memorandum that he had circulated to all party structures. He added that while it was not his habit to discuss internal party matters in the public arena, he felt he had to provide context to the memorandum as it was now being misrepresented.

The IFP, like all political parties, was gearing up for 2024 and had initiated internal discussions about brand discipline, saying nobody could deny that Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi was the IFP's strongest brand. Ngcobo attributed the party's success in the by-election to Buthelezi's legacy.

"It is due to his legacy and commitment to moral and ethical leadership that the IFP continues to grow from by-election to by-election. The IFP's national council -- the party's highest decision-making body -- has therefore resolved to reaffirm our party resolution taken in 2019 and 2021, to continue using our founder's face as our brand.

"Our brand is our strength, and brand discipline will be key as we embark on what we believe will be our strongest showing in the 2024 election," reads the statement.

Attempts to get comment from Ntuli drew a blank as his phone rang unanswered, and messages sent to him were not answered at the time of publishing.
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Bob Menke, the man who founded St. Petersburg-based Bankers Insurance Co., one of the oldest property insurers in Florida, died last week at age 89.

The company that Bob founded in 1976 has grown into one of the largest privately held financial services companies in the Tampa Bay Area, Bankers Financial Corp. CEO John Strong and President Rob Menke, Bobs son, said in a statement. Today, BFCs companies provide personal and commercial property insurance, full-service human resource outsourcing, consumer warranty and lifestyle services, insurance and financial services for homebuilders, and the underwriting of surety bond contracts.

Bankers Insurance was one of the first companies to enter the National Flood Insurance Program, in the 1980s, and it was once considered one of the larger property-casualty insurers in Florida.

But by June 2022, the company, with some 27,000 policies in force in Florida, announced it had stopped writing new personal lines business in the state. The move came after the insurer said it had lost money in the Florida market for five years, thanks in part to claims litigation and escalating reinsurance prices.

Bob Menke graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in industrial engineering, but his entrepreneurial spirit led him into the insurance business, the company statement noted. He also was instrumental in founding the Bank of Florida in 1974, and was later chairman of First Community Bank Corp. of America, according to news reports.

Bankers also gained some notoriety in the 1990s, after it was revealed that the company, with Menkes approval, had hired a private investigator to dig into the private life of Florida insurance regulatory official Kevin McCarty, who later became insurance commissioner. The company later settled a lawsuit brought by McCarty for $2.5 million, according to news reports.

Menke was described as being devoted to his family and to company support for Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital, the Salvation Army and the St. Petersburg College of Orthotics and Prosthetics program.

Menke was named the Florida Association of Domestic Insurance Companies Man of the Year in 1986. He was a member of the Society of International Business Fellows.

Bobs family and the greater BFC family are incredibly grateful for the many kind expressions of support we have received, the company statement said.

Topics Florida
A man who says he was repeatedly stunned with a Taser while handcuffed, including once in the face, is suing a Colorado sheriffs department, alleging excessive force by two deputies and also a failure by leaders to train and discipline their employees.

Kenneth Espinoza was arrested Nov. 29, 2022, after he stopped to wait when Deputy Mikhail Noel of the Las Animas County Sheriffs Office pulled over his son, whom he had been following to a car appointment.

According to the lawsuit filed in federal court this week, Lt. Henry Trujillo and then Noel ordered Espinoza to leave, saying he should not be near a traffic stop. After initially refusing, Espinoza then started to drive away but Noel pointed his handgun and ordered him to stop.

The suit alleges that Noel used a Taser to stun Espinoza directly on his body while he was in his truck, calling them drive stuns.

As the deputies struggle to get Espinoza into the car, video shows, one warns that he is going to use the Taser on him, and uses an expletive.

One device can be seen contacting Espinozas body along with the wires that carry Taser electrodes, as crackling sounds are heard.

Espinoza was hit in the lip after he turned toward the deputies because of the pain of the shocks, according to the lawsuit. The video does not appear to show Espinoza being stunned in the face, but photos released by his lawyer, Kevin Mehr, show him with large scabs on his lip.

Mehr said one probe was lodged 3 centimeters into Espinozas gum, according to medical records. He estimates Espinoza was hit about 35 times by Tasers, mostly in the drive stun mode directly to his body.

Trujillo and Noel were placed on paid leave during an investigation by an outside agency, Sheriff Derek Navarette said in a statement.

He added that the investigation did not start until April 24 because sheriffs officials were waiting to find out whether prosecutors would pursue charges against Espinoza. Prosecutors informed them that day, the same one that Espinozas lawyer released the body camera video, that they were not going to prosecut.

Navarette said he would not comment further because of the lawsuit.

A message left at a phone number believed to belong to Trujillo was not immediately returned.

Nathaniel Espinoza, the plaintiffs son, who joined Mehr at a news conference announcing the lawsuit Tuesday, said he and his father were the only cool heads during the whole interaction with the deputies, which he thinks helped prevent them from being killed. He added that he does not have a problem with all police, but some are problematic.

Cops are people, and there are bad people all over, Nathaniel Espinoza said.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Colorado
A $1.1 million payment was made to resolve a ransomware attack on a California countys law enforcement computer network, Southern California News Group reported.

The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department announced in April that a network disruption was being investigated by information technology staff and forensic specialists, and that the FBI and Department of Homeland Security were notified.

County spokesperson David Wert said the county paid $511,852 and the remainder was covered by insurance, the news group reported.

The decision whether to render payment was the subject of careful consideration, Wert said.

Sheriffs Department spokesperson Gloria Huerta said an investigation is continuing to try to determine whether any information was stolen and whether the ransom payment can be traced to identify the hacker.

Sheriff Shannon Dicus said this week that public safety wasnt compromised by the ransomware attack but it hindered some tasks.

Deputies, for example, could not access a system that provides information on whether a person is wanted for crimes elsewhere in the country, so they had to request that other agencies make the record checks, Dicus said.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California Cyber
Source: Streetwise Reports

May 8, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Assay results from the last six drill holes at Infinitum Copper Corp.'s La Adelita project last year have been released. One analyst says the project could turn into a "very valuable high-grade asset."

Infinitum Copper Corp. (INFI:TSX) has released assay results for the last six of 12 diamond drill holes sunk at its flagship project in Mexico last year.

Hole AD-22-0028 at La Adelita returned 48.7 meters (true width) of 1.22% copper equivalent (Cu eq) starting at 198.95 meters downhole, while hole AD-22-0021 returned 19.85 meters of 1% Cu eq from 34.5 meters downhole. Both holes were drilled in the Cerro Grande Zone.

The results build on previous highlights from the 2022 campaign, including Hole AD-22-0018, which returned 20.6 meters of 3.71% Cu eq from 163 meters downhole, and hole AD-22-0019, which returned 32.25 meters of 1.74% Cu eq from 36.65 meters downhole.

"Hole 28 is particularly exciting because it demonstrates that the mineralization is open to the north, which is also supported by our geophysical studies," said Rafael Gallardo, Infinitum's senior exploration manager. "Our recent surface mapping demonstrates the continuity of contact between intrusive rocks and favorable calcareous host rocks at least 350 meters to the north of the drill hole."

In a fact sheet written in March, M Partners analyst Eric Carstairs noted high-grade drill results that had already been released from La Adelita, which is in the Alamos Mining District near the Alamo Dorado Mine in Southern Sonora, Mexico.

"There is significant potential for this project, returning very high copper grades at sizeable widths," Carstairs wrote. "With copper demand expected to rise and exceed the supply over the next decade, we believe that this project could turn into a very valuable high-grade asset in the near future as INFI plans to have steady news flow when drilling begins (~every ten days). La Adelita has blue sky potential as only about 6-8% of the property has been touched."

Technical analyst Clive Maund of CliveMaund.com rated the stock a Speculative Buy in February.

"Infinitum's chart looks exceptionally bullish, in good part because of the extraordinarily bullish volume pattern," Maund wrote. "It is not known what is going on behind the scenes, but we can safely assume from this chart that whatever it is, is positive."

The Catalyst: Working Toward a Resource Estimate

The company is working toward a resource estimate for La Adelita, which is 6,446 hectares and made up of seven mining claims. The company has identified three zones of significant copper, silver, gold, and zinc mineralization at the Cerro Grande Footwall, Las Trancas, and Pericos zones.

It noted hole AD-22-0028 is open to the north, east, and west and was the only hole that intersected a large and distinct magneto-telluric anomaly on the eastern flank of the Cerro Grande anticline.

Infinitum believes the anomaly is driven by highly conductive magnetite, which is strongly related to high-grade gold and copper mineralization. The mineral, detectable with magnetometer surveys, should help locate more mineralization.

Last year's "exploration program certainly exceeded expectations with half of the holes drilled returning high-grade intercepts over meaningful widths," said Infinitum Chief Executive Officer Matt Hudson. "The evidence of the strong correlation between magnetite and mineralization continues to build, and as it does, the number of targets continues to grow."

Cerro Grande only represents about 5% of the project area, Hudson noted. He said the company looked forward to exploring the Sangre del Toro area about 4 kilometers southwest, where trenching returned 9 meters of 16.45 grams per tonne gold (g/t Au) and 1.9% Cu.

"We've got plenty of work to do in 2023," Hudson said.

Earlier assay results from drilling at the project made an impression on Caesars Report newsletter editor Thibaut Lepouttre.

"The drill bit encountered 24.35 meters (20.60 meters true width) of 1.91% copper (Cu), 2 [grams per tonne gold (g/t Au)], and just under 41 g/t silver (Ag)" at La Adelita, Lepouttre wrote. "This represents an official copper-equivalent grade of 3.71% . . . Needless to say, encountering that type of grade over an interval in excess of 20 meters on a true width basis is excellent."

Need for Red Metal Could Slow Pace of Energy Transition

More of the red metal, also known as "the metal of electrification" because of its conductivity, is needed to help power the new green economy. Electric vehicles (EVs) use at least three times as much copper as fuel-burning cars.

"The implications are that high copper prices (relative to history) are likely to continue and will need to be high enough to encourage additional new greenfield capacity or brownfield expansions to come on stream," a copper market analysis by RFC Ambrian said in 2022.

According to a report by S&P Global, The Future of Copper, demand is expected to double from about 25 million metric tons (Mmt) today to about 50 Mmt by 2035.

"The mismatch anticipated in this study between demand and supply will put pressure on the goal of Net-Zero Emissions by 2050 and will likely slow the pace of energy transition," the S&P report said.

Ownership and Share Structure

About 16% of the company is owned by management and insiders, including Director Ivan Po Kwong Chan with 4.04% or 2 million shares, and Board Chair Steve Robertson with 3.32% or 1.64 million shares.

About 17% belongs to institutions, and strategic investor Minaurum Gold Inc. owns 12% or 6.11 million shares. The rest, 55%, is retail.

Infinitum has 49.5 million shares outstanding, 33.2 million free-floating, according to the company. Its market cap is CA$3.42 million, and it trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.52 and CA$0.04.

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Source: Streetwise Reports

May 8, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Dakota Gold Corp. announces the discovery of a new high-grade Homestake Formation zone at its Maitland Gold project in the historic Homestake District of South Dakota.

Dakota Gold Corp. (DC:NYSE American) announced the discovery of a new high-grade gold formation at its Maitland Gold project in the historic Homestake District of South Dakota.

The JB Gold Zone was found drilling hole MA23C-017, which intersected 12.51 grams per tonne gold (g/t Au) over 4.7 meters in the same mineralization style as the Homestake Mine, which produced more than 40 million ounces (Moz) Au over its lifetime.

"We believe the new JB Gold Zone could be Dakota's most significant discovery to date, with hole MA23C-017 returning the most substantial intercept ever encountered north of the city of Lead," Canaccord Genuity analyst Michael Fairbairn wrote in a flash update Thursday.



Source: Dakota Gold Corp.

The hole is a 408-meter step-out to the northwest from a previous Homestake intercept in drill hole MA22C-003 of 10.03 g/t Au over 3.2 meters. The intersection in MA23C-017 occurs in a wider zone grading 7 g/t Au over 9.5 meters, the company noted.

"It is possible the Homestake mineralization encountered in hole MA23C-017 connects to (those) found in MA22C-003, ... providing 408 meters of potential strike between the intercepts, a possibility which will be tested with future drilling," Fairbairn wrote.

The hole with the new discovery was sunk 5.5 kilometers from the Homestake Mine Open Cut, and 2.9 kilometers from Homestake Mining Company's North Drift Discovery, Dakota Gold said. The alteration and mineralization present in MA23C-017 is the same as the high-grade mineral zones found at the Homestake Mine.

"With two potentially economic mineralized intersections in drill holes MA22C-003 and MA23C-017, we can now begin to vector our drilling into wider zones of gold mineralization," said Dakota Gold's Vice President of Exploration, James M. Berry.

Robert Quartermain and Jonathan Awde head Dakota Gold, which has acquired and is exploring 46,000 acres surrounding the historic mine.

Industry giant Barrick Gold Corp. (ABX:TSX; GOLD:NYSE) also backs the company.

The Catalyst: Revitalizing a Legendary District

Dakota Gold continues to have four drills operating on its Homestake properties, two at its Richmond Hill project and two at Maitland Gold.

Last month, the company announced it had outlined an extensive gold system more than a mile long from north to south, with mineralization open in all directions, at the Richmond Hill project, which is 2.3 miles west of Maitland.

Drill hole RH22C-013 at Richmond Hill assayed 5.98 g/t Au over 30 meters at the intersection of a dominant north-south structure, confirming the existence of higher-grade gold mineralization.

"At Richmond Hill, DC is working on upgrading the historic oxide resource ... and conduct additional exploration/step-out drilling," Fairbairn wrote. "Results to date bode well for the next resource update, with indications that Richmond Hill hosts a substantial high-grade gold orebody."

"Dakota Gold is now seeking to revitalize this legendary district in hopes of making a material discovery on its land package proximal to the mine," Fairbairn noted.

Others in the field agree with the strategy. "The best place to find a new gold mine is in the shadow of the head frame of an existing gold mine," geologist and investment analyst Matt Badiali has told Streetwise Reports.

CEO: Project Extremely Encouraging

At Maitland, the company is in the early stages of drilling to define the geology, find preferential terrains for gold mineralization, and produce discoveries.

"The next phases of work are geared toward definition of the mineralized zones with drilling on tighter spacing and vectoring toward centroid mineralization," Dakota Gold said in a release.

Homestake's North Drift Discovery led to a US$70 million exploration program between 1988 and 1994, which has served as the foundation of Dakota Gold's land acquisition and exploration programs.

The North Drift program intersected 11.43 g/t Au over 4.6 meters, 4.77 g/t Au over 7.6 meters, and 7.61 g/t Au over 7.3 meters, all of which are on the Company's property. These intercepts have not been verified by Dakota Gold.

President and Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Awde has said he was "extremely encouraged" by Maitland.

"We believe we are on the cusp of vectoring toward higher grades and on making a discovery with Maitland," he said. [OWNERSHIP_CHART-7442]

Much of the land owned by Dakota Gold has not been explored in nearly 30 years.

Ownership and Share Structure

According to the company, approximately 30% of the company's shares are with management and insiders. Out of management, Co-Chairman Robert Quartermain holds the most shares at 10% or 7.34 million shares. President and CEO Jonathan Awde is next at 8.4% or 6.2 million shares, while COO Jerry Aberle holds 6% or 4.2 million shares. The remainder of the 30% is held by other members of management and the board of directors.

According to Reuters, about 26.6% of the shares are with institutional investors, including Van Eck Associates with 3.8%, BlackRock Fund Advisors with 3.6%, CI Investments with 3.6%, Fidelity Management with 3.5%, The Vanguard Group with 3.2%, Barrick Gold Corporation with 3%, Medalist Capital with 2.4%, Delbrook Capital with 2%, and Sprott Asset Management with 2%.

About 27.4% is with strategic investors, Reuters said. The largest holding is with Marin Katusa + KCR LLC, which owns 4.9%.

Dakota Gold has a market cap of US$259.76 million, with 75.3 million shares outstanding and 56 million free-floating. It trades in a 52-week range of US$4.69 and US$2.61.

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Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions.

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May 8, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Artificial Intelligence (AI) stocks should now be part of most investors' portfolios as Big Tech prepare for an AI boom, suggests the CEO and founder of one of the world's largest independent financial advisory, asset management and fintech organizations.

The comments from deVere Group's Nigel Green follow last week's earnings reports from tech titans including Microsoft, Alphabet (parent company of Google) Meta (parent company of Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp) and Amazon.

It also comes after legendary investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, the Chairman and CEO and Vice chairman respectively of Berkshire Hathaway, spent hours this weekend at a shareholders' meeting in which they expressed skepticism about AI.

"I am personally skeptical of some of the hype that is going into artificial intelligence. I think old-fashioned intelligence works pretty well," Munger noted.

However, Nigel Green says: "Despite Buffett and Munger's scepticism, Big Tech last week posted robust financial performance reports for first-quarter earnings. The pace of growth has picked up noticeably.

"But the real story was the tech giants' seemingly relentless mania for AI. Most of corporate America clearly think that this is the future.

"The importance of this cannot be overstated considering that just five tech companies have made up two-thirds of the S&P 500's gains so far this year.

"Besides guidance, which suggests how companies are positioned to manage an economic downturn, and data on how effective cost-cutting measures have been, the Big Tech earnings season was dominated by AI detail.

"The tech titans are fully aware of the enormous returns that could be secured when AI starts to radically change the way businesses work and consumers live their lives.

"We fully expect that the volume of chat around AI will ramp up in future earnings seasons."

His belief is backed up by recent events. The AI chatbot ChatGPT became wildly popular in just a matter of weeks - and took off faster than social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram. Only two months after its launch in late November, it had 100 million monthly active users in January, according to reports.

It is because of the potential way that AI is expected to impact society and global business that Nigel Green now says that "AI stocks should have a place in most investors' portfolios."

Including AI exposure into an investment portfolio offers several possible benefits for investors, such as "potential strong returns, risk management, diversification possibilities, and future-proofing advantages because as the use of AI continues to grow and become more pervasive, those companies that fail to adopt this tech may be at a competitive disadvantage."

The deVere CEO concludes: "We expect that companies that have substantial AI interests are likely to benefit from the growth of the industry and this could have potentially significant rewards for early investors.

"But, of course, like any investment strategy, including AI in a portfolio carries risks and requires careful consideration. Investors should seek professional advice before making any investment decisions.

"We believe that AI is the future, and we know from the past that early investors in innovative technologies often reap enormous rewards."

t: +44 207 1220 925

e: george@priorconsultancy.co.uk

Twitter: @PriorConsults

deVere Group is one of the world's largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients. It has a network of more than 70 offices across the world, over 80,000 clients and $12bn under advisement.

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Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions.

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Fishing businesses have expressed concerns about the growing momentum behind the development of offshore windfarms, but some experts believe both sectors can successfully co-exist and reap mutual benefits.

Mark White, who has built a varied career in the marine sector, said the development of offshore windfarms will eventually create protected areas for fishing vessels.

Fishermen are naturally and completely understandably suspicious and concerned, said Mr White.

There is pressure from all sides and in Ireland we just dont have the control over our fisheries that we would like to have, because of all the international fishing in our waters.

But, by having some protected areas, actually the knock-on benefits can be huge.

Mr White has a PhD in marine zoology and runs the consultancy firm In Deep Business Growth. He was previously the CEO of Co Clare-based meteorological company Nowcasting, which recorded weather and ocean conditions for the offshore industry worldwide and which was sold in 2011.

By reducing some of the very large-scale fishing efforts and going into small-scale fishing efforts and having these protected areas where wind- farms exist, youre actually getting stock improvement and stock increasing, he said.

Mr White said that the fishing port in Grimsby in the UK is an example of how fishermen and offshore wind developers can work side by side and, in some cases, transfer their skills.

Not only are the fishermen there seeing benefits in certain types of fishing, but people who have been under pressure to make a living in fishing are using their same marine skills and transferring into very steady, very stable, very long-term, very well paid, highly-skilled jobs in the wind industry, he said.

However, fishermen have said they are worried about the disruption that windfarm constructions can create, such as new noise which can impact some species of fish.

There are also concerns about offshore developments encroaching on fishing space.

Yet, Irish Fish Producers Organisation CEO Aodh ODonnell said both industries have the opportunity to co-exist, but it is just really important that the offshore renewable sector take advantage of new technologies to avoid the spatial squeeze. He added:

The offshore renewable sector needs to take into account the rights of fishermen.

One Irish offshore wind development, backed by French company EDF Renewables and Norways Fred Olsen Seawind, recently pledged 500,000 to the local fishing industry around where the project is being built.

The Codling Wind Park said that the Fisheries Fund will have a 100,000 annual budget to support initiatives for the next five years to benefit the fishing industry operating within and around the Codling Bank area of the Irish Sea.

Meanwhile, Danish renewable energy company Orsted, which has been eyeing up opportunities in the Irish market, said it minimises the environmental impacts of its windfarms by using noise-mitigation screens and hydrosound dampers.

Mr White believes that the two sectors will be forced to work alongside one another if Ireland is going to make any headway in addressing the growing threat to the climate. He said:

If we dont do something to take on climate change, then change will just happen for these people and the downsides will be enormous with no upside.

The Irish wind energy sector is anticipating a boost this week as the results of Irelands first Offshore Renewable Electricity Support Scheme auction are expected to be published on Thursday.

The process invites renewable energy projects to compete against each other to win contracts to provide electricity at a guaranteed price. There have been two onshore auctions to date, RESS 1 in 2020 and RESS 2 in 2022, and a third is planned for this summer.

However, the renewable energy sector continues to battle various obstacles in Ireland despite growing interest in it.

For example, planning applications for onshore windfarms are supposed to be decided by An Bord Pleanala within 18 weeks but, on average, are taking over a year to get a decision.
As Lucasfilm and Disney+ planned a second series of animated short films for their hugely successful Star Wars: Visions project, they knew that the Force was with an Irish animation studio.

Cartoon Saloon - the Kilkenny outfit behind such acclaimed films as The Secret of Kells and Wolfwalkers - was among a number of studios worldwide on Lucasfilms radar.

For Cartoon Saloons Paul Young, who had been contemplating directing his first animated short, the timing couldnt have been better. A big science-fiction fan, the award-winning producer was seeking a project that could marry his two great storytelling passions.

Many years after establishing Cartoon Saloon with Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey in Kilkenny - and producing some of our most-loved animated films - working with the creators of Star Wars offered a remarkable opportunity.

I've mainly focused on producing even though it maybe wasn't the intention from the outset that I would always do that, says Young. I kind of grew into the producer role - I often joke because I was the one that sat beside the phone when we moved into the studio I became the producer.

Nora and Tomm had been encouraging me over the last year or two to step into the director's shoes. I was trying to figure out what would be an interesting Cartoon Saloon science fiction film? I thought it might be interesting for us to do something mad different. Then one of the producers' team at Lucasfilm got in touch and said, would you like to do a Star Wars?

A scene from Screecher's Reach in Star Wars: Visions 2, on Disney+.

The result is Screechers Reach, an exceptional animated short that focuses on a young girl who discovers a haunted cave which changes the trajectory of her life.

Its the second animated anthology series of Star Wars: Visions, following the hugely successful Japanese anime series a couple of years ago. This series reaches out to animation studios around the world.

They wanted us to bring a little bit of our own culture to it, the opportunity to say, oh, we can have Irish actors in there, the accents can be Irish, said Young, who added that getting to work in post-production on the legendary Skywalker Ranch was a huge bonus.

Screechers Reach brings a sense of Irish culture and then some. Star Wars fans worldwide are getting acquainted with the phrase: Kick her up the arse which is spoken by one of the characters in the film. Having initially expressed queries about the use of the word arse, the studios went on to embrace it. They accepted the argument that it's kind of culturally important to us to use the word arse, laughs Young. They were good spirits about it!

The genius of animation requires painstakingly detailed work and the film, running at over ten minutes, took a year to create. We had 51 crew on it just in Cartoon Saloon alone, observes Young. Other crew that were in post-production as well and sound design. The animation is the most time-consuming. On a good week, an animator might get six to seven seconds a week done.

Basically youre talking about 12 frames a second, so youre drawing 12 new drawings. We tried some different techniques in this film to get some different effects. We had a very pen and inky line style. We let the characters sit a bit longer, we were trying something new here with the animation style.

A scene from Screecher's Reach in Star Wars: Visions 2, on Disney+.

Ireland has become a global giant in animation, with several studios based here telling stories that resonate with audiences throughout the world. The creative form of storytelling has been growing rapidly in recent years. Young feels there are a number of reasons for Irelands success.

A big factor was Sullivan Bluth setting up here in the early 80s. They did The Land Before Time here and An American Tail. It was a massive studio that came in and they had big investment. They brought some American animators over and then they basically hired lots of Irish people to fill the ranks of their crews.

But when they shut down, when something like that happens, a lot of Irish animators went over (to the US) and a lot of Irish animators stayed. Then there was Jim Murakami, he had a studio here, there's an award named after him in the Dingle Animation Festival, which is nice.

The section 401 tax relief for film helps because animation is so labour intensive, it's the perfect vehicle for it. You have full time employees for over four years on a movie, it's the best use of that in a way.

It gives back a lot to the local economy, because you've got people living permanently and paying taxes where they are.

Young adds that Irish animators, coming from a small country and having collaborated with storytelling giants, realised early on that they had to look over the hill to achieve success.

We had to think internationally. Myself and others who started companies here all went to the markets and the festivals and travelled a lot. It was a necessity out of the economics of animation that to get a budget, you have to sell to the likes of people in the States and in around Europe. So we did European co-productions, Canadian co-productions.

Also I think there is an advantage in that were between Europe and the US. We have this nice touchstone with European culture and filmmaking and the US. Our storytelling sensibilities are not alien to people in the US or in Europe.

Star Wars: Visions 2 is now available on Disney+

A scene from the Aardman film in Star Wars: Visions 2, on Disney+.

International force: Other films in Star Wars Visions 2

I Am Your Mother: Britains iconic Aardman tells the story of a young pilot, Anni, who teams up with her mother for a thrilling adventure.

Sith in Star Wars: Visions 2.

Sith: A former Sith apprentice is confronted by the past when her old master tracks her down in this story from Spains El Guiri studios.

In the Stars: Chiles Punkrobot is the outfit behind the tale of two sisters who struggle for survival as the Empire encroaches.

Journey to the Dark Head: South Koreas Studio Mir crafts a tale of a disillusioned young Jedi who joins forces with a mechanic for a risky quest.

The Spy Dancer: A cabaret dancer uses her skills to spy for the Rebellion in a tale from Frances La Cachette.

The Pit is one of the other films in Star Wars: Visions 2.

The Bandits of Golak: Two siblings flee their village pursued by dangerous Imperial forces in the short from Indias 88 Pictures.

The Pit: A fearless young prisoner, forced to dig for kyber by the Empire, plans a risky escape for he and his people. From Japans Dart Shtajio in collaboration with Lucasfilm.

Aaus Song: An alien child who loves to sing is urged to stay quiet because of the impact of her voice on nearby mines in a story from South Africas Triggerfish.
I am lying in the grassy surrounds of Royal Hospital Kilmainham, breathing in through my nose and out through my mouth.

Around me, dozens of others lie on yoga mats as the voice behind the Just Breathe meditation app Michael James Wong urges us to allow ourselves time to slow down.

At one stage, he asks us to sit back to back with someone near us, and we breathe together.

It might sound a bit hippy for some, in fact, looking in on it as an outsider I might have felt the same, but when I opened my eyes after the 20-minute session, I had the strange urge to cry.

This, I suppose, is because I had done something so many of us are failing to do in our day-to-day lives  I took a moment (more than a few) for myself  without throwing on a podcast or scrolling through Instagram or any of the hundreds of ways we choose to distract ourselves and avoid standing still. And, I had found myself being supported, quite literally, by someone else.

Wellfest attendees participating in a meditation session

WellFest was started in 2015 by Helena Ryan, Katie Ryan, Fionnuala Cleary and Anthony Kelly. It has grown its attendance to 10,000 over the two-day event in recent years, in line with our growing interest (and willingness to spend) in all things wellness. Major international and Irish names from the health, fitness and wellness fields have featured in the line-up over the years, with returning favourites Joe Wicks, Maeve Madden, Gerry Hussey and Angela Scanlon among those who keep coming back. Some 15 stages were erected across the meadows with tents dedicated to mind, yoga, food, etc.

When I rocked up on Sunday morning, it was an almost entirely female demographic. The talks reflected that with some of the best-attended being ones on gynae health, perimenopause and women in the great outdoors (the latter hosted by Instagram star Roz Purcell). At those concerning womens health, the questions afterwards came quick and fast, with many women looking for assistance and advice in relation to pain, having failed to get satisfactory help from their GP.

At gynaecologist Dr Anita Mitras talk, one young woman asked for advice on what to do when medical professionals dont take your pain or concerns seriously. Dr Mitra said, unfortunately, female patients being dismissed by their healthcare providers was a complaint she heard constantly.

"We need to stop normalising women being in pain all the time, she said.

Pharmacist Laura Dowlings talk, Viva le Vulva, was a revelation  deeply informative and humorous at the same time, it highlighted our collective lack of knowledge when it comes to understanding the female anatomy and how deeply problematic this is for womens health. It also provided an amusing random factoid about the power of an orgasm to heal chronic hiccuping. The more you know...

Roz Purcell and Trisha Lewis were on the line-up at this year's Wellfest

Pharmacist Oonagh OHagans talk on gut health with Symprove probiotic ambassadors Trisha Lewis and Angela Scanlon was another enlightening experience (even acknowledging the advertorial element), while a seemingly endless number of women queued throughout the day for The Skin Nerds Jennifer Rock expert advice.

When the crowd of us Wellfesters, buzzed up on iced coffee and hot cacao, were tired of sitting still, there were plenty of HIIT classes, pilates, yoga, boxing, trampolining, Zumba and dance classes for a reboot. A highlight was the Coppers Workout by Move with Carla, which Id imagine left most of us feeling better than we ever have stumbling out of the nightclub at 2am.

Maeve Madden and Queens Don't Quit coaches

Maeve Madden and her all-female coaching team drew a crowd throughout the day to their Queens Dont Quit stage, while Chris Magees happy on your hands yoga class had everyone around me falling on top of each other in fits of laughter which, probably wasn't the goal.

Over in the vendors' tent, everything from activated crisps to 70 gratitude hoodies and a pre-drinking probiotic pill was on sale. I found myself walking away with an incense stick, a yet-to-be-released anti-inflammatory supplement and a probiotic I am to take as a shot every morning, which will apparently cure everything from IBS to acne and anxiety.

Maybe I am a sucker. But, sitting here with my incense stick burning, my head clear and my body exhausted from a day of Coppers-inspired workouts and failed crow poses  perhaps being a sucker is not the worst thing to be.
Almost 80% of women in Ireland are not confident they would notice a symptom of ovarian cancer, according to new research.

A new study commissioned by the Irish Network of Gynaecological Oncology (INGO) examined the knowledge on recognising warning signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer in a sample size of 522.

The survey, carried out ahead of World Ovarian Cancer Day, also showed that while 70% knew the CervicalCheck screening programme assesses whether a woman is at risk of having cervical cancer, 34% mistakenly believed cervical screening checks were for ovarian, cervical, uterine, vulva, and vaginal cancer.

Some 400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Ireland, and almost 300 women die from the disease. Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women in Ireland, after lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.

To mark World Ovarian Cancer Day, the INGO has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and encourage women to contact and explain their symptoms to their GP.

The campaign emphasises the BEAT symptoms:

Bloating that is persistent and doesnt come and go;

Eating less and feeling full more quickly;

Abdominal and pelvic pain you feel most days;

Toilet changes in urination or bowel habits.

There is no standard screening test to pick up ovarian cancer in women who do not have symptoms. Early diagnosis can significantly improve survival  more than eight out of 10 patients diagnosed with stage one ovarian cancer are alive five years after diagnosis compared to just one in six people diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer.

Karen Cadoo, medical oncologist and cancer geneticist at St James's Hospital said: Approximately 20% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a genetic reason for their cancer. This information can be important for their treatment for some women. It is also very important for their family members so that they can understand and reduce their ovarian cancer risk.

Ovarian cancer patient Deirdre ORaw said: We all know our own bodies and if we notice any changes or anything unusual that lasts more that a few weeks then get it checked out.

Dr Sharon OToole, senior research fellow at Trinity College Dublin and coordinator of the World Ovarian Cancer Day campaign at INGO, said It is important to highlight that there is no screening for ovarian cancer and that cervical screening does not check for all gynaecological cancers.
A teacher at Nkabinde Primary School, Kwa-Thema Springs, allegedly assaulted an eight-year-old Grade 3 learner with a plastic water pipe on Tuesday for writing slowly.

The school principal then allegedly tried to cover up the incident, asking the girl to pretend she had tripped and "was injured by a rock".

The child was bending over her desk to write when the teacher allegedly hit her on the back.

She sustained multiple bruises and struggled to sit down. Her parents had to seek medical attention.

Fellow learners in the class revealed that the teacher regularly uses the pipe to hit them on the palms of their hands.

The victim's father told Scrolla.Africa that he was shocked when he saw the bruises. When he asked his daughter about them, she told him that she had been beaten by her class teacher.

"When I approached the school, the school principal apologised, but members of the SGB refuted the claims, claiming that my daughter was making up the allegations.

"I asked the principal for the school or teacher to cover my daughter's medical bills; I was told that she could not commit to that as she still had to meet with the teacher and SGB."

He added that the school principal asked his daughter to claim she had hurt herself, and had never been assaulted.

"The school principal called my daughter in her office yesterday, forcing her to say that she fell and was injured by a rock."

The father added that the medical report indicated that the child's spine was injured due to the assault.

"Corporal punishment has been abolished in South African schools for over two decades now, but we still have teachers assaulting our children," he said.

"My daughter now fears going back to school from the trauma. All I want is for the teacher to be held accountable for her actions."

The Gauteng Department of Education is aware of the allegations of corporal punishment against the educator at the school.

"As the department, we take such allegations seriously and as such an investigation into circumstances surrounding this incident has been launched," a spokesperson said.

"The report at our disposal reveals that the said learner was at school the entire day on Monday, 24 April 2023 to date. Furthermore, the allegations that the learner has not been to school were unfounded."
Police have made an arrest following reports that a man with a gun had entered a hotel in Belfast and threatened staff and guests.

One man was held hostage during the incident on Sunday at the hotel on Ormeau Avenue, police said.

Officers received a report just before 6.45pm that a man had entered the hotel with what was believed to be a gun and threatened those present.

A PSNI spokesperson said: Response officers were on the scene within five minutes.

On arrival, the suspect was holding a man hostage. All other persons were evacuated.

Specially trained officers arrived shortly afterwards and the hostage was released just after 7pm.

The spokesperson added: The suspect attempted to make off from the scene, but was detained by police.

It was confirmed that the item was not a firearm.

He was arrested on a number of offences and has been taken to police custody, where he remains at this time.

I want to thank the staff and patrons present for their cooperation during what was a terrifying ordeal.

Thankfully, no-one is believed to have been physically harmed. Officers remain at the scene.

I would appeal to anyone who was in the area who may have footage of the incident, or any other information which could assist our investigation, to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1612 of 07/05/23.
A prison officer is being treated in hospital after being stabbed in the face by an inmate, it is understood.

Gardai are investigating the incident that occurred at Mountjoy Prison in Dublin on Monday.

The male prisoner, who is serving a life sentence, was being escorted from Mountjoy Prison to a medical appointment in the Smithfield area at around 10am when he produced an instrument and attacked the escorting officer.

The prison officer suffered serious injuries and is being treated in hospital. He is said to be in a stable condition.

It is understood that the officer re-apprehended the inmate with other colleagues and returned them to Mountjoy.

Authorities are treating the incident as an attempted escape and suspect the attack was pre-planned.

The Irish Prison Service (IPS) said that gardai have been informed and they are now investigating.

In a statement to the Irish Examiner, the IPS said: "The Irish Prison Service is aware of an incident that occurred with an escort from Mountjoy Prison earlier today."

Gardai have confirmed that an investigation is underway into the incident but said they had no further information at this time.

The Prison Officers Association said the incident highlights the risks, challenges and dangers faced by prison officers as they carry out their duties on behalf of the State.

These challenges are faced daily by prison officers and indeed their families.

According to the latest figures, assaults on prison officers increased by 46% between 2021 and 2022.

Additional reporting by PA
Politicians who feel the need to beef up their security will be able to claim up to 5,000 towards the cost of CCTV and alarms.

The Department of Public Expenditure has informed the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission that it has sanctioned the spending which it requested following consultations with TDs and senators. Politicians can recoup 50% or 5,000, whichever is lower, of the cost of the security measures required.

Those who want to avail of the money will have to ensure the security work is carried out by a registered contractor. The funding will only be allocated following a recommendation by An Garda Siochana and will be a contribution towards costs rather than a full payment.

The decision comes months after the initial request was sent to the Department of Public Expenditure on foot of recommendations by gardai after concerning cases were raised by TDs, senators, and staff members.

It is also understood the make-up of a taskforce to examine the growing problem of threats and intimidation of politicians will soon be announced. The expectation is that this taskforce may make additional recommendations about addressing security concerns.

Following a number of incidents involving politicians in recent months, an extensive engagement process took place, arising from complaints from a number of TDs.

The Ceann Comhairle and the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission agreed to assess the issue of security after a man aged 43 was given a suspended one-year sentence last year after pleading guilty to harassing Fine Gael TD Jennifer Carroll MacNeill.

On foot of the concerns brought forward by some politicians, discussions were held with gardai and social media companies.

A number of female TDs have spoken publicly about the threats they have received, including Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns, Ms MacNeill, and Sinn Fein TD Louise OReilly, among many others. Ms OReilly said she increased security at her home after being informed of a threat to her safety.

In January, two bags of cow faeces were thrown at Fianna Fail Minister of State Anne Rabbitte and Fine Gael TD Ciaran Cannon at a public meeting in Gort, Co. Galway. Sinn Fein TD Martin Kenny has also said he planned to move house following two separate attacks at his Co. Leitrim home in recent years.

Gardai issued fresh advice to politicians earlier this year which drew criticism, as some measures included wearing comfortable shoes". Officers also encouraged politicians to consider a personal alarm and vary their routine, including their journey to work.
A Fine Gael senator has criticised the fact that there is no voice for the primary producer at a food price meeting later this week and said there is no logic to having the summit.

Your home for the latest news, views, sports and business reporting from Cork.

Tim Lombard said: Wednesdays meeting will include representatives from Primark and Eason but no voice for the primary producer.

"The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media will be represented but nobody from the Department of Agriculture. I question the logic of this and what can be achieved when the primary producer is excluded.

He said the meeting of the Retail Forum called by Neale Richmond, the minister of state with responsibility for retail business, is welcome, but that there is a glaring omission from this crucial discussion. Mr Lombard added:

There is no voice for the primary producer on the Retail Forum. How can we be serious about discussing concerns around food prices without them?

"There is no representative from Teagasc, Bord Bia, the Department of Agriculture, or farming organisations on the Retail Forum. We need to be proactive and include all stakeholders.

The primary producer is getting squeezed by the supermarket retailers on one side and by rising costs on the other side.

Meanwhile, the retail selling cost of some of the products farmers produce is decreasing. They are getting paid less while having to deal with ongoing inflation.

The forum includes representatives from retail trade bodies, unions, the training and skills sector, and large retailers such as Tesco, Eason, Musgrave, and Primark but does not contain food producers.

Mr Richmond said retailers should step to the plate to ensure food prices come down.

He said the discussion will be frank as he will ask them why food inflation is at 16.3%, ahead of general inflation.

We appreciate that theres always a delay between prices coming down and inflation dropping and all that, but we have been waiting some weeks and months since weve seen inflation peak and start to come down but we havent seen those price cuts across staple goods in supermarkets before last week.

Theres a lot more that both retailers and food distribution companies can do, we believe, to bring down the cost for consumers whilst maintaining a fair price for farmers across the country.

Mr Richmond told RTEs Morning Ireland that the price of butter and milk has been brought down with the stroke of a pen.

He said that while the Government can cap prices, this is not something that would be done lightly.

We will do more in the budget, but the private sector and the food sector have to step up to the plate on this, he said.

The meeting comes as Sinn Fein is preparing to table a Dail motion on the issue which will be debated on Tuesday evening.

The partys enterprise, trade and employment spokeswoman Louise OReilly said the Government has shown no urgency to tackle food price inflation.

This week, Sinn Fein is calling on Government to do all in its power to ensure savings made by supermarkets and large food retailers in respect to falling input costs are passed on to consumers through lower grocery prices.
WHEN, at the surrender of the Third Reich, General Eisenhower visited Buchenwald concentration camp, he was so stunned he announced that he wanted every American unit to see what he had seen.

We are told that the American soldier does not know what he is fighting for, he said. Now, at least, he will know what he is fighting against.

Just a week before the Allies liberated Buchenwald, Karl Koch, the former commandant of the camp, was executed for crimes including the murder of an imprisoned medic who had treated him for syphilis, the motivation for the homicide being Kochs fear the medic might spread the word about the commanders venereal disease.

What made the execution unusual, was that the firing squad that did for Koch belonged to the SS. Nazis, in other words, not Allied shooters. Koch was so evil that his own finally decided he breached their standards of concentration camp management.

Kochs widow, Ilse, the mother of their three children, survived him and became known as the Bitch of Buchenwald. She was first tried in a post-war Dachau court and sentenced to four years imprisonment, which was just about right, given that she had no managerial role in Buchenwald and consequently had not directly participated in the mass murder committed there.

However, this was a case where the accusations were louder than the evidence.

The accusations included the claim she had ridden her horse through the camp, flogging anybody who displeased her with a riding whip; selected prisoners for extermination who she believed looked at her inappropriately; and made lampshades from the skin of executed camp inmates, favouring tattooed material. None of those accusations was proven.

Ilse Koch personified everything the post-war world found horrific about Nazi Germany.

Coverage of the Bitch of Buchenwald in American media created enough outrage about the brevity of her sentence as to override jurists who believed it precisely matched her provable crimes.

The outrage did more. It swamped the rule of double jeopardy, which holds that once youve been tried and sentenced for an offence, you cannot be tried a second time for the same offence.

The end result was that, as Ilse Koch walked out of prison, smiling, at the end of her incarceration, she didnt even make it to the street, being re-arrested, charged and tried all over again. This time, she got a life sentence and was to serve 20 years of that sentence before killing herself.

The general reaction was that she had deserved what she got and that her protestations of innocence were ludicrous.

A new book  Ilse Koch on Trial  by Tomas Jardim, would suggest that while she was anti-Semitic, sexually promiscuous, happy to live in luxury outside the camp in a villa decorated with stolen art, and had a personality that invited at best impatience and at worst hatred, her second conviction would be unsafe in modern terms.

Some of the case made about her relied on lawyers telling the court about the inner pleasure she took in deaths it was claimed she caused. Inner pleasure? This and similar claims were not based on diaries to which she might have confided her feelings. They were pure fantasy. Or perhaps impure fantasies projected by prosecuting males.

One fairminded American lawyer, having reviewed every word spoken in the trial, later wrote that while the accused undoubtedly was a morally depraved and callous woman not fit company for decent people anywherethese traits are not of themselves considered crimes in America and are certainly not war crimes in international law.

But thats where Jardims book should give us pause. The fact is that the Koch war crimes conviction would not stand up in any proper judicial setting and that the woman spent a quarter of a century (between her first and final incarcerations) largely because she failed to live up to the expectations, not only of the male victors, but of her own country.

Jardim lists her being accused of being avaricious, possessed with boundless arrogance and cruel in a manner which is rarely found in women always running around with married men... She did not behave ... as was to be expected of a lady."

In the actual court and in the contemporaneous court of mass media, Koch was subjected to relentless sexist stereotyping. Reporters pointed out that while she may have been sexy in the past, she was now frumpy and fat.

The judicial system dragged in her stepsister, Erna Raible, and her former landlady, Maria Klaus to testify that the accused was not even a good mother: she drank a lot when entertaining.

It all played into an apparent confirmation that she bore a dual guilt as not only a perpetrator of violence and a violator of statutory law, but a strident and grotesque violator of established gender norms. rendering her, as the US Chief Prosecutor argued, no woman in the usual sense.

How Ilse Koch was treated, and why she was treated as she was, is worth examination.

Albert Speer was one of the few Nazis to serve a comparable sentence, although, amazingly, he did not earn a comparable sentence.

Speer, the master of the German war machine for the final three years of the Third Reich and consequently responsible for slave labour in the manufacture of munitions, was sentenced to 20 years.

Koch, who never served the war machine, never helped develop policies or plans, never signed off on Government decisions of any kind, was sentenced to life.

Speer emerged from Spandau prison in 1966, having, from the Nuremberg Trials onward, adhered to the role, as he himself with conscious irony, put it, of repentant sinner.

He had used the 20 years of imprisonment to write and smuggle out the diaries that  published  were to affect the resuscitation of his reputation, turning his narrative into an appealing redemption saga. He also rigorously looked after his physical and mental health during the Spandau years.

Chaotic end

Ilse Koch had neither the insight, discipline, nor intellect to take that route. Her years in prison were chaotic, with sporadic hunger strikes and her trashing her cell more than once.

She had none of the narrative-crafting resolution of Speer and, although she was pushed by her lawyers to take the route of contrition, she wouldnt do it.

The day before she fashioned a noose out of a torn strip of bedsheet and hanged herself from an overhead pipe, she crafted a final letter to her son:

My lawyer wrote that without an acknowledgement of guilt and a willingness to atone, I cannot be released. Its all madness, Im innocent, Im not to blame, its all slander and perjury.

It wasnt all slander and perjury. But the contrast between Koch and Speer (whose sexual promiscuity, quite rightly, never surfaced in court) suggests Koch suffered greatly as a result of stereotyped views of women, rather than proven crime on her part.
Is Ireland becoming a type of British protectorate, and can we keep pretending we are neutral when experts here and in other nations must think its patently obvious we are not?

These are questions the Irish public will have to mull over in the months ahead, because, whether we like it or not, where we officially stand, or who we side with has been brought glaringly into the spotlight by the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

When Britain had the largest empire in the world, it conquered many countries and ruled them directly itself  us included. However, there were a few, for logistical and political reasons, that it had a big brother-type relationship with.

These were known as rotectorates. The difference was that their local rulers still retained absolute control, allegedly, of the day-to-day running of their countries and were given guarantees that they would be protected by the British forces, then the most powerful in the world.

However, the deal was that Britain then represented these countries interests diplomatically on the international arena. Such countries at one time or another included the likes of Barbados, Aden, the Maldives, Kenya, Malta and Cyprus.

A few years ago it was revealed that the Government had reached a secret agreement with Britain that the Royal Air Force (RAF) would protect Irish skies, as we didnt have any fighter jets to do the job.

Nice of big brother next door to do this for us, but then again there was some self-preservation involved on the British side.

After 9/11, it became apparent that terrorists would and could hijack commercial airlines to carry out attacks. The likelihood of them hijacking a Europe-bound commercial airliner over the Atlantic and crashing it into Croke Park or Leinster House was minute, if non-existent.

More likely a target would be Downing Street or Buckingham Palace.

The British knew we didnt have the fighters to intercept and shoot hijacked planes out of the sky. They therefore offered to protect our skies in a deal from which the Defence Forces were excluded, even though the RAF asked for their input. This lack of consultation between the Government and its own military baffled the RAF. It also baffled the Defence Forces and questions are still being asked today about their exclusion from the talks.

Now, it has emerged that the British navy is planning to launch a ship or ships with the capability to monitor threats off the Irish coast to data information cables running under the Atlantic which connect North America with Europe.

These cables have global economic significance, transmitting millions of messages between banks, businesses, and ordinary people each day. Cutting them would lead to international chaos.

Russian ship Yantar was anchored over those cables off our western coast for some period of time last August.

It is believed that ship is equipped with submersibles which could dive down to the cables.

Sources within the naval service have expressed concern that the Russians could have laid charges along parts of them, which in the event of an all-out war, or something leading up to it, could be detonated from the sky by Tupolov Tu-142 Bear bombers, which frequently fly exercises off our coast.

The naval service wanted multi-beam echo sonar to monitor the seabed cables, but to date no information has come from our government about if this equipment might be supplied.

News that the British navy is preparing to monitor the cables might well scupper any plans for our naval service to get sonar.

Tass, the official Russian news agency, recently said its countrys navy regarded five different areas in the world as strategically important and one of them is 200 miles off the coast of Cork, where some of the cables are.

The Bears are Soviet-era nuclear bombers. They are slow and cumbersome, but still very menacing and cause panic among Nato countries when they go on exercises in Westerns Europe. The RAF regularly gets involved in cat and mouse shadowing wargames with them. Our countrys impotence in the face of the Bears was brought starkly into the international spotlight in 2015 when they flew a couple of cloaked missions down our western coast.

They were shadowed by RAF fighters, but commercial aircraft were unaware of the bombers presence in the skies off our coast because their transponders were off.

However, air traffic controllers here were able to monitor the Russians flight path because the bombers emit a little sqwark which can be faintly picked up on their radar.

The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) was so concerned that the bombers were crossing the busiest flight path in the world  between North America and Europe  that they ordered many commercial aircraft to divert in mid-flight and advised others to remain grounded until the Russians had moved out of the danger zone.

The Irish air corps planes dont have the speed or the ceiling (height attainment) to shadow the ageing Bears. Yet another reason the British want to monitor our skies.

Days prior to the invasion of Ukraine, the Russians informed the authorities here  knowing full well it would become public knowledge  that they intended to hold a naval exercise off our south-west coast, in an area directly over the transatlantic cables. While theyre located in the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ), warships from foreign nations are entitled to carry out patrols there, including live-firing exercises and they regularly do so.

However, the timing of the Russian exercise caused international consternation. The Irish fishing fleet threatened to go out and meet them head on. The Russians gracefully withdrew. The fishermen declared a diplomatic coup. No doubt the Russians were grinning from ear to ear as theyd showed how vulnerable the West was to Irelands military incapabilities and not a shot had been fired in anger.

Representatives of the Irish fishing industry Brendan Byrne, CEO of the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association, and Patrick Murphy, CEO Irish South and West Fish Producers Organisation hold a Fisheries Management Chart outside the Russian embassy in Dublin in January, ahead of a meeting with the Russian ambassador amid an ongoing row about navy exercises off the coast. Picture: Brian Lawless

After the furore, the Russians simply moved further afield, outside our EEZ, but still sitting over the cables. In other words: We know theyre there and you know what we might do to them, because the country nearest is incapable of stopping us.

Now the British navy is planning to cover the gap created by our incapabilities. Has this also come into the public domain, probably deliberately, to tie in Ireland to the Western powers yet again?

A further question has to be asked. US, British, and French nuclear submarines regularly pass off our western coast on surveillance duties and routine exercises, shadowing the Russian subs and vice versa. Are the Western superpowers not monitoring any potential Russian threats to the subsea cable? It would seem highly unlikely that nuclear submarines arent equipped with technology to sweep the seabed for potential issues, especially over such a vitally important piece of infrastructure. It is even more unlikely that they havent ratcheted up such missions following the Russian naval exercise and Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine.

Therefore, why would the British navy put into the public domain that theyre to use surface vessels to carry out such monitoring? Why also is the US tying us into its military sphere with troop-carrying planes which regularly land in Shannon for stop-overs, although they have the capabilities to over-fly us into their bases in Europe?

Is it further evidence of trying to tie this country even more into the Western alliance, be it Nato or a European military force?

The reality is that we cant defend ourselves against an outside aggressor for very long, even in a conventional war, because we have run down the Defence Forces to such an extent that they have neither the manpower nor the firepower.

Its through no fault of the Defence Forces, who are among the most highly trained and respected military forces in the world and who have won accolades for their peacekeeping duties around the globe.

Not so long ago, the Army Ranger Wing (ARW) defeated other special forces in a competition which the US lost for the first time on home soil.

However, the Defence Forces are paid such a pittance that many experienced personnel have voted with their feet and got jobs elsewhere. So you pay for what you get  an army which is so stretched it can barely maintain its home and overseas commitments, a naval service which has ships tied up because it cant crew them and an air corps which would be envious of some of the planes Third World countries possess.

If we are allowing the British to increasingly watch our backs like their old empire protectorates then what are they getting in return? Have there been any other secret deals that we dont know about while our Government continues to harp on that we are neutral and the only way that can be changed is by a referendum?

The strict definition of neutrality is contained in the terms of the 1907 Hague Convention. It says that, to call yourself neutral, you are obliged to be able to defend that neutrality. So if we are increasingly relying on Britain to do that how can we claim to be neutral? Also under the Hague Convention, you must not support any of the combatants in a war. We didnt do this during the Second World War and we are not doing it now with Russia against Ukraine.

And please dont get me wrong. I am no apologist for Putin and what he has done. Any decent person, and Im sure there are many in Russia who are afraid to speak up, watch daily how hes trying to bully a smaller nation into submission with countless and needless deaths of innocent people.

It wasnt that long ago that our neighbour was oppressing us. Now its our protector, because we took our eye off the ball and effectively surrendered our neutrality by penny-pinching on our own defence.

Its just a few days until we commemorate the centenary of the death of a man who is widely credited with showing small nations that they could stand up and fight for themselves.

Michael Collins led the most successful intelligence campaign ever mounted against the British empire. How would he, as the first Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, react to whats happened to Irelands inability to defend itself today?

In the Soviet era, Russian children learnt about Irelands successful fight for freedom, primarily because it suited the Russians to point out the woeful things a big bully imperialist had done to a smaller country. They dont seem to adopt the same philosophy about the Ukraine situation for some reason.

Todays young Russians probably know very little about our history and those with a poor education are likely to still connect us with being part of the UK, because Northern Ireland is and they dont differentiate between the two states on this island.

The people who lead the new Russian generation and their allies in Putin-supporting states have little doubt about our countrys allegiances.

Even before the attack on Ukraine, they had probably aligned us, in their own minds, as being pro-Nato/European Defence Force.

But the Russians have recently included us on their list of what they feel are unfriendly countries lumping us in with the rest of the EU member states and the US, Britain, Japan, and South Korea.

So now theres no doubt where we stand with them. The issue is where we stand with ourselves.

Independent senator Gerard Craughwell, who has served in both the Irish and British armies, said its time for an honest debate on neutrality.

It must be based on fact and not some romantic notion of our role in international affairs, he said.

Some commentators talk about how neutrality is enshrined in our Constitution, but I challenge anyone to point me to where it is. Some believe it is enshrined in legislation but here again there is no such legislation. The truth is Ireland in not neutral now nor has it ever been.

"At best we can describe Ireland as non-aligned, but here again as a nation, we have never moved to join the non-aligned group of some 120 nations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs sets out a definition of neutrality as follows in Challenges and Opportunities Abroad; Irelands White Paper on Foreign Policy 1995 International Security; Chapter Four, Paragraph 4.5: In the strict sense of international law and practice, neutrality and its attendant rights and duties do not exist in peacetime; they arise only during a state of war. Neutrality represents an attitude of impartiality adopted by a state towards the participants in a conflict and recognised as such by the belligerents. Such an attitude creates certain rights and duties between the neutral state and the belligerents which commence at the outbreak of war and end with its cessation.

Mr Craughwell insists Ireland has failed to meet this definition.

The only time that Irelands neutrality has been tested was between 1939 and 1945 and we failed miserably, he said. We provided safe passage for Allied forces to cross the border with Northern Ireland, safe flight pathways across Donegal for aircraft and we provided intelligence to the Allies. Overall, we were fully on the side of the Allies in all but the battlefields.

Indeed he is right. When a German bomber landed in Ireland towards the end of the war the government handed it over to the British because they wanted to see some of the technology the Germans had developed.

Germans were interned in The Curragh, although it has to be said they were let out to dances, albeit constantly supervised. When a US bomber crash-landed due to engine problems at a marsh near Clonakilty, Co Cork, its crew were put up in a local hotel and allowed to go where they pleased, mainly to local pubs and they were treated like celebrities.

The Irish army was instructed by the government to help repair the plane and build a runway so it could take off again. The original crew were eventually dropped off at the border and a replacement US crew was allowed to fly the aircraft out.

Modern so-called neutral Ireland is unable to defend its airspace, has insufficient resources to patrol its seas and remains vulnerable to cyber-attacks, said Mr Craughwell.

We depend on a secret deal with the UK Government signed in Dublin by unknown persons which provided for the RAF to intercept aircraft that may be a threat. The EU has often provided ships to patrol our seas for fishery protection which in an international embarrassment.

We are so lacking in defence capability now that the UK has decided to build a ship to monitor cables passing through our EEZ.

We are a so-called neutral state, but talk is cheap. Unless or until we are in a position to defend our vital resources at sea, on land and in the air we should defer any discussion on neutrality. I believe there needs to be a national conversation on neutrality before a citizens assembly. We need to understand exactly what we want for our country.

This article was originally published on August 8, 2022.
Childrens ombudsman Dr Niall Muldoon is baffled.

Some six years ago he looked into why the gardai and Tusla were not sharing information on child sex abuse cases. He could find no legal reason for it.

The Government at the time indicated it was down to practice that had built up.

Two years later it appeared the problem was no more when the government opened up a centre where the agencies would physically work together and provide all the services to children affected.

Now, four years on, Dr Muldoon reads the agencies are still not sharing information and that the children continue to suffer the consequences in terms of investigation delays and therapy.

The revelation, which he describes as very disappointing, comes in a joint report by the EU and the Council of Europe into Irelands implementation of the Barnahus model.

Under this system, which originated in Iceland, all the services  medical forensic examiners, social workers, police and therapists  operate under the one roof and in the best interests of the child.

Ireland started a pilot in September 2019, based in Galway, which began taking referrals in November 2020.

The EU-CoE Inception Report said there were undue delays in child victims accessing justice in Ireland, noting that staff in Barnahus West estimated that children were waiting between two and nine years for a court date.

Dr Muldoon told researchers for the report that children were subject to multiple interviews by different agencies during the gathering of evidence because there was no clear approach by them and that this had the potential to be traumatising and created huge delays.

The report found that different agencies had differing and even opposing views on the functioning of the Barnahus model.

It said that the position being taken by the agencies on sharing information had little focus on the best interests of the child and that there was a need for a national policy requiring and defining interagency cooperation.

In an interview with the Irish Examiner, Dr Muldoon said he did not know what the problem was.

This is what is baffling me, he said. I and Professor Geoffrey Shannon [the then government rapporteur for children] were involved in 2017  after his report into Garda child protection.

In the report, he said there was superficial and ineffective communication at times between gardai and Tulsa.

A major report by the Garda Inspectorate, Responding to Child Sexual Abuse, also published in 2017, highlighted repeatedly the problem of information not being shared.

It said: The requirements of freedom of information and data protection appear to have contributed to a very cautious approach to the sharing of information.

Staff from the agencies told the inspectorate that information-sharing blockages could happen in complex cases.

In two examples provided, gardai were told that they should apply for a search warrant to obtain information relating to a complex investigation.

Other concerns raised were in relation to the disclosure of information to a partner agency that was then further disclosed by the receiving agency to a third party.

Garda investigators provided examples where information about an investigation was inadvertently disclosed by social workers to persons who were considered potential suspects.

The inspectorate urged the establishment of an information-sharing protocol to address the problem.

After Prof Shannons report, Dr Muldoon said both of them linked up with then childrens minister Katherine Zappone and other members of the Department of Justice and visited a number of Barnahus models around Europe and the US.

Information

He said he and his colleague spent six-to-seven months confirming there was no legal impediment for the sharing of child protection information.

Prof Shannon even said he would write any amendments to legislation, if needed, and was told there was no need to, it was practice, practice had grown up that they [gardai and Tusla] dont share, Dr Muldoon said.

He said he thought the matter was clarified finally when Barnahus opened in Galway in September 2019.

Barnahus was launched by the then minister of justice, minister of children, and a representative of the minister of health, with confirmation that everything was going to run smoothly, he said. Yet, we are not there and the Council of Europe is very clear about that.

The co-operation and sharing of information between agencies is not there. It costs nothing, but it impacts on children enormously.

He said that when he met Justice Minister Helen McEntee last November he was told it was the departments understanding was that there was some difficulty and that a protocol between the services might help.

I think we need a political impetus to make this happen, the ombudsman said. I thought we crossed that Rubicon back in 2019  that it was already sorted. I think it would be great if Minister Harris or Minister OGorman would move forward on that as a matter of urgency.

The Government plans to open a Barnahus South in Cork by the end of this year, followed by a Barnahus East.

The report said Dublin itself has had a more robust set of therapy services  such as St Louises Unit in Tallaght Hospital and St Clares Unit in Blanchardstown Hospital  before Barnahus in Galway set up and that the new units should not provide a decreased level of service.

Dr Muldoon said England adopted a Barnahus model after a number of scandals there, including one where a large number of children were abused by a group of men. He said some 18 different professionals from different backgrounds knew about the children and if even three of them shared their knowledge they could have responded a lot quicker.

They now dare to share, Dr Muldoon said. They said they were constantly sued when they failed to share, since theyve shared no one has sued them, because it is for the right reason, the protection of children.

When asked what the problem was, a spokesman for the Department of Justice said the Gardai and Tusla would be better placed to comment on the issue of information sharing.

Both Tusla and An Garda Siochana have yet to respond to queries.

On court delays, the justice spokesman Minister Harris announced last February his intention is to appoint an initial tranche of 24 additional judges in 2023 to facilitate greater access to justice.

The spokesman said the department was funding a course in University of Limerick to train people as professional intermediaries to help sex abuse victims give evidence in court and a pilot scheme was being worked on.

Ombudsman for Children Dr Niall Muldoon speaking at Child Talks 2021 in the RDS. He pointed out that, "A child who suffered sexual abuse at 10, may be 14 or 15 by the time they are in court."

Dr Muldoon said it was clear from the report that children constantly have to tell their stories to different professionals, delaying not only the evidence-gathering and prosecution process but also therapeutic intervention.

He said rapid intervention was hugely important for a child and that delays make it harder to pursue justice in the courts.

A child who suffered sexual abuse at 10, may be 14 or 15 by the time they are in court and may have changed, he said. They may look totally different, have tattoos, may not look vulnerable, may be angry  all sorts of things may have changed, which is why we need to record [their evidence] as it happens and use that as their voice.

He said there was no national therapeutic service dedicated to children, that was "free and accessible", and that outside Galway and Dublin, there were limited services.

Children must wait

He cited voluntary group Children at Risk Ireland (CARI), which provides services in Limerick and Dublin and recently opened an outreach centre in Wexford, but continues to battle high demand due to lack of funding.

In contrast, Dr Muldoon said there is a National Counselling Service for adults who are victims of child sex abuse, set up after the institutional abuse scandals.

There is discrimination, he said. Well give free therapy once youre an adult, but if you are currently a child going through the pain of sexual abuse wholl have to join the [waiting] list. We look after adults better than children.

All of which, he said, underlines the continuing need for a national strategy on combating child sexual abuse, as recommended by the Garda Inspectorate in 2017, and called for by the ISPCC for years.

Im not quite sure why we dont have one, said Dr Muldoon. It is one of those issues that, as a nation, has really stained our reputation and our psyche. Its something we need to get a grasp of.

A statement from the Department of Children said: The Barnahus model of service aims to improve childrens experience of the services and avoid re-traumatisation during medical and child protection assessments; evidence gathering and legal proceedings.

It said the Inception Report was the first step of identifying issues among agencies given inter-agency cooperation and the exchange of information was one of the pillars of Barnahus.

Next steps for the project include an in-depth legal and policy review, which will be commencing soon, and a training gap analysis which is already underway, it said.

CARI Helpline 0818 924567; ISPCC Childline 1800 66 66 66
Plans for a major retail village worth over 100m for East Cork are to be relaunched by the British company proposing the scheme.

Check out our Sustainability and Climate Change Hub where you will find the latest news, features, opinions and analysis on this topic from across the various Irish Examiner topic desks and their team of specialist writers and columnists.

Giles Membrey, managing director of Rioja Estates, has suggested that the scheme will be fantastic for the Cork area in terms of tourism, the cruise terminal and other attractions in the area. "We will have very little impact on Cork city centre, given the brands we have and the catchment profile."

But is that good enough? Surely, the ambition should be to support retail investment within the city centre that will energise local trade and the vibrancy of a sustainable city. Shane Clarke, director of operations for the Victorian Quarter business group in Cork city agrees, suggesting that the plans are "unsustainable for lots of reasons."

"The future of Cork city is in its historic core, and thats where the investment should happen and should be directed," said Mr Clarke. "We are in a climate crisis and biodiversity emergency. This project is 1980s thinking in a changed 21st-century world.

"This is not a village, its an out-of-town shopping centre. We have evidence from cities across the world that such retail suck spend and investment out of our historic town centres. Jobs created here are lost in Cork city, Midleton and Cobh."

Mr Clarke also questioned the massive volumes of traffic congestion, air pollution and noise with the need for taxpayers to subsidise the expansion and maintenance of the multi-billion euro road network. The plans predict 220,000 shoppers a year. Has the carbon footprint of these shoppers been considered as well as the impact on already-challenging climate targets?

Shane Clarke: 'This is not a village, its an out-of-town shopping centre.' Picture: Gerard McCarthy

The announcement follows in the wake of the recent controversial address to TASC, the independent think tank addressing equality, democracy social inclusion and climate justice, by President Michael D Higgins. The President provoked criticism from members of the economic fraternity when he said that "a fixation on a narrowly defined efficiency, productivity and perpetual growth has resulted in a discipline that has become blinkered to the ecological challenge  the ecological catastrophe- we now face."

The European Economic Agency (EEA) in a recent paper Growth without Economic Growth warned that human civilisation is currently "profoundly unsustainable" and drastic changes are now essential if disaster is to be averted.

The plans come at the same time as a warning that multiple climate tipping points could be crossed. Once temperatures have risen by 1.5-2C, German climatologist, Professor Stefan Rahmstorf, of Potstam University warned that will likely lead to a domino effect with catastrophic consequences.

The critical systems most vulnerable to collapse in the near term include the Antarctic Ice Sheet, adding three metres to global sea levels, as well as the Amazon rainforest, the worlds coral reefs, the Greenland ice sheet, and the already weakening Atlantic Meridional Overturning Current that allows Ireland and much of north western Europe to enjoy its mild and temperate climate.

As we blithely plan more monuments to excess and economic growth, Professor Rahmstorf urges policy makers to start putting climate change at the top of their agendas. "They cannot be allowed to be pushed off the agenda by other short-term priorities. This is an extremely urgent situation."

Despite ambitious national climate plans and targets, that urgency is simply not evident in the day-to-day, business-as-usual approach to maintaining economic growth targets that do not factor in impact on carbon emissions.

The 15-minute city

An alternative approach to sustainable urban planning is the concept of a 15-minute city, where lifes amenities are concentrated in a 15-minute walk  the suggestion being that the closer that residents are facilitated to live to workplaces, shops, schools and other amenities, the better their quality of life will be.

This concept is a familiar to anyone who has enjoyed strolling around the historic centres of European towns and villages and was the status quo on the bustling main streets in the US before the post-war sprawl of Interstate highways permanently altered the dynamic. It's probably familiar too, to a lot of people who grew up in rural villages and towns here, before the era of commuter jobs in cities a distance away.

The covid-19 pandemic forced towns and cities to limit their environs to within 5kms and even 2kms. Adjusting to that new reality, proponents of 15-minute cities recognise the advantages for both residents and the environment as reliance on cars is reduced.

Anne Hidalgo, mayor of Paris has been one of the strongest proponents of the 15-minute city, making it a centrepiece of a successful re-election campaign in 2020. Carlos Moreno, French academic and advisor to Hidalgo, in a TED Talk in 2020, suggested there were three key features to a 15-minute city.

He said: "First, the rhythm of the city should follow humans, not cars. Second, each square metre should serve many different purposes. Finally, neighbourhoods should be designed so that we can live, work and thrive in them without having to constantly commute elsewhere."

Senior Strategic Policy and Development Officer in the Strategic Planning and Economic Development Directorate of Cork City, Paul McGuirk, recently suggested that if we want to inspire people we need to be able to tell a story of opportunity and improvement in our lives.

"There is a need to include in the conversation the benefits for communities and individuals of effective climate action. Solutions to the climate emergency can make more liveable, healthier and better cities for everyone.

"Who wouldnt chose to live in a city with good public transport, excellent walking facilities and better air quality? Community action is at the heart of how we make Cork a more liveable and sustainable city," Mr McGuirk said, adding that Cork is fortunate to have a strong network of communities and neighbourhoods.

"Understandably, many of us may be daunted by the scale of change involved in transforming how we live, work and move about Cork city but I think we all have to agree that the ultimate destination of a more liveable and sustainable city will deliver quality of life for us all and for generations to come."

Last year, Cork city was selected by the European Commission as one of the first 100 cities to lead on climate neutrality as part of the EU Cities Mission. This selection will support the city in accelerating its vision to meet ambitious growth targets within a sustainable and climate action framework.

The City Development Plan 2022-2028 sets a framework to achieve the core principles of sustainable development, health, compact growth and the creation of liveable communities, amenities, services and green spaces. A key emphasis in the plan is on compact growth that is focused on supporting housing, job creation, public realm renewal, transport, amenity services and community services.

The ambitious plan includes a vision of integration of land-use and transport planning to achieve compact growth, thereby facilitating the 15-minute city. Building yet another monument to incentivise consumerism and splashing out on expensive designer goods is the opposite of what is needed for Cork city in a time of climate emergency.
The death toll from a vehicle hitting a crowd of people waiting for a bus outside a migrant shelter in Texas has risen to eight, police said.

Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval confirmed the eighth death, but said police were unsure whether Sunday mornings collision in the border city was deliberate.

The driver was taken to hospital after the collision, which injured at least 10 others, with police waiting to arrest him.

Emergency personnel take away a damaged vehicle after a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas (Michael Gonzalez/AP)

Mr Sandoval said: It could be intoxication, it could be an accident or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two.

Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released. Then well fingerprint him and (take a) mug shot, and then we can find his true identity.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said the SUV ran up the curb, flipped and continued moving for about 200 feet (60 metres). Some people walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet (nine metres) from the main group were also hit  witnesses detaining the driver as he tried to run away.

He said most of the victims were Venezuelan men waiting for the bus to return to downtown Brownsville after having spent the night at the overnight shelter.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, said Mr Maldonado, who said the centre had not received any threats before the crash.

People record law enforcement working the scene where a fatal collision occurred in Brownsville, Texas (Michael Gonzalez/AP)

A surge in the number of migrants prompted Brownsville commissioners to indefinitely extend a declaration of emergency on Thursday.

We dont want them wandering around outside, city commissioner Pedro Cardenas said after the crash. So, were trying to make sure theyre as comfortable as they can be so they dont have to go out and look for anywhere else.

Brownsville has long been an epicentre for migration across the US-Mexico border.

The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in the city and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody.
A double-decker boat carrying more than 30 passengers has capsized off a beach in southern India, killing more than 22 people, including children.

Police officer Abdul Nazar said the rescue teams were expecting to recover more bodies from inside the boat after pulling it ashore from the muddy waters.

He said Indias National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard personnel were engaged in rescue work and trying to find those who were still missing.

The tourist boat capsized near the estuary of Poorappuzha River in Tanur, a coastal town in Kerala states Malappuram district, and most of the passengers were tourists.

People watch rescuers search a river after a tourist boat capsized in Malappuram, Kerala, India (PP Afthab/AP)

Mr Nazar said authorities were investigating the cause of the accident and it appeared the boat capsized due to overcrowding.

The dead included children who had come for a ride on the boat during their school holiday, sports minister V Abdurahiman told the Press Trust of India news agency, adding that four people in a critical condition were admitted to hospital.

The states chief minister tweeted his condolences to the victims families and urged the districts authorities to oversee the rescue.

Monday has been declared a day of official mourning, PTI reported, quoting a government statement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was pained by the loss of lives and announced compensation to the victims families in a tweet.

Rescuers and others pull ashore a tourist boat that capsized in Malappuram, Kerala, India (PP Afthab/AP)

Boating accidents are common in India, where many vessels are overcrowded and have inadequate safety equipment.

In September 2020, 12 people drowned when a sightseeing boat capsized on the swollen Godavari River in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.

In May 2018, 30 people died when a boat capsized in the same region.
Traditional rulers of Urhobo ethnic nationality in Delta State have commended the Ovie of Ughelli kingdom, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, HRM Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi Ill, for a peaceful reign, development in his kingdom, attaining 70 years, and marking his 31st coronation anniversary.

Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Felix Mujakperuo, Orhue 1, in a commendation statement at the palace of the Ughelli monarch, said: "To attain 70 years and 31 years old on the throne is a landmark."

"The Bible says the life span of a man is 70 but for those who are strong and live above 80 years, we give thanks to God for their lives.

"To be 31 years on the throne is not an easy task. Gone are the days the king used both executive, legislative and judicial powers to stabilise the throne, but now those powers have been taken away from them, and what they have is physical power to pilots the affairs of the kingdom.

"There are lots of descendants in the kingdom trying to create unnecessary problems, but you have to find a way out, and for you to navigate them, you need to apply wisdom.

"For one to mark 31 years on the throne, you use wisdom to deal with the young men of nowadays. So, I have a lot of respect for the king of Ughelli kingdom because he is jovial, friendly, accommodating and a good king to the entire Ughelli kingdom and beyond. However, I pray God to grant him good health and longevity on the throne."

Speaking, the Ovie of Ogor kingdom, HRM Okiemute Onajite, described the celebrant as a progressive, wonderful, accessible, generous, and understanding king that contributed significantly to the Ughelli kingdom at 31 years on the throne.

The President-General of Ughelli Descendants Union, UDU, Chief Pius Omubaye, appreciated all those that supported HRM Oharisi III for the success of the occasion and the building of an ultra-modern palace.

Addressing reporters immediately after the ceremony, the Ughelli monarch said: "God made possible my 70 years on earth and 31 years on the throne. I appreciate God for granting my family and me, good health."
Ukraine air defences shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest night-time assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlins forces killed three civilians, officials have said.

It comes as Moscow enforced tight security on the eve of traditional Red Square commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.

Five people in the Ukrainian capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration.

Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko in an apartment building damaged by a drone that was shot down during a Russian overnight strike (Andrew Kravchenko/AP)

Drone wreckage struck a two-storey apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has routinely turned to Irans Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian Defence Ministry said.

The Kremlins forces used tanks, drones, mortars, warplanes, multiple rocket launchers and surface-to-air missiles to bombard Ukraine, the report said.

Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

In addition, six Russian rockets also struck the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk during the night, a regional official reported on Monday.

The missiles targeted the citys industrial zone and caused no casualties, Donetsk regional governor Petro Kyrylenko said in a Telegram post.

People sit in a park next to anti-tank hedgehogs in Kyiv (Bernat Armangue/AP)

Russian authorities were preparing for celebrations on Tuesday of Victory Day, Russias most important secular holiday, amid tight security.

Many regions have cancelled their May 9 observances because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

On top of that, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday he had sent a draft Bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Mr Zelensky equated Russias goals in Ukraine with those of the Nazis.

Unfortunately, evil has returned, Mr Zelenskyy said on Telegram.

Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the frontline southern Zaporizhzhia region, towards the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

A Second World War Soviet army T-34 tank during a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade in St Petersburg (Dmitri Lovetsky/AP)

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city some 100 kilometres south-east, it said.

The report came just days after Yevhen Balitsky, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region, ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there on Friday, including Enerhodar which neighbours the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to occupied Crimea.

In a separate development, the Russian military command has promised the Wagner Group, a private military company, additional ammunition and equipment for its offensive in the eastern city of Bakhmut, Wagner founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin said in an audio statement published by his press service.

The statement on Sunday came just days after Mr Prigozhin on Friday threatened that Wagner fighters may pull out of the embattled city, where they have for weeks been Russias main assault force.

He accused Russias military command of starving Wagner of ammunition and causing it heavy losses.

The threat marked another flare-up in Mr Prigozhins long-running dispute with Russias regular military over credit and tactics in the war.

In the statement on Sunday, Mr Prigozhin claimed that Russian defence officials have since committed to providing the mercenaries with ammunition and equipment, as much as is needed to continue and given Wagner a free hand to take operational decisions in Bakhmut.
The prime minister of an eastern Caribbean country has claimed it is not totally free while Britain's King Charles III is its head of state.

St Kitts and Nevis prime minister Terrance Drew told the BBC a public consultation on whether the Commonwealth realm nation should become a republic will start during his leadership.

Dr Drew, of the St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party, who won a snap election in August, has also called on the monarchy to apologise for its historic links to the slave trade, the BBC reported.

Buckingham Palace said King Charles takes slavery profoundly seriously.

Dr Drew was among world leaders who posed in a group photograph with King Charles after attending a Commonwealth reception at Marlborough House in London on Friday, ahead of the coronation at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

King Charles is sovereign of 14 Commonwealth realms in addition to the UK, while the Commonwealth as a whole is a voluntary association of 56 independent nations, almost all of which were formerly under British rule.

Ahead of the coronation, representatives from 12 Commonwealth countries joined forces to call on King Charles to acknowledge and apologise for the impacts and ongoing legacy from British genocide and colonisation.

In early April, King Charles expressed his support for the first time for research into the historical links between the British monarchy and the transatlantic slave trade.

Buckingham Palace said the royal household will help with the academic project by offering access to the Royal Collection and the Royal Archives.

Speaking in the St Kitts and Nevis capital Basseterre, Dr Drew told the BBC that the research was a step in the right direction.

I think that acknowledging that something wrong was done, acknowledging it and apologising for it, is a step in the right direction, he reportedly said.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: This is an issue that His Majesty takes profoundly seriously.

They cited a speech by King Charles to Commonwealth leaders in Rwanda last year, when he said: I cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow at the suffering of so many, as I continue to deepen my own understanding of slaverys enduring impact.

The benefit of long life brings me the experience that arrangements such as these can change, calmly and without rancour

The spokesperson added: That learning process has continued with vigour and determination since His Majestys Accession.

As one part of it, the Royal Household is supporting Historic Royal Palaces independent research project that is exploring, among other issues, the links between the British Monarchy and the Trans-Atlantic slave trade during the late 17th and 18th centuries.

On the references to republics, the spokesperson added: His Majesty has long acknowledged the discussion about constitutional arrangements with the royal family.

In his Rwanda speech, King Charles said: I want to say clearly, as I have said before, that each members constitutional arrangement, as republic or monarchy, is purely a matter for each member country to decide.

The benefit of long life brings me the experience that arrangements such as these can change, calmly and without rancour.

In November 2021, Barbados became a republic, replacing the late Queen Elizabeth II with a president as its head of state, and there has since been speculation that other countries, such as Jamaica, could follow suit.

The future role of the monarchy in the realms came under renewed scrutiny following the death of Queen Elizabeth and controversies surrounding royal trips to Caribbean countries by Prince William and Princess Catherine and Prince Edward and his wife Sophie Rhys-Jones last year.

William and Kates royal trip in March 2022 to Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas was criticised over allegedly tone deaf images, which critics claimed were reminiscent of colonial days.

The controversial photos showed the couple, shaking hands with Kingston crowds behind a mesh wire fence, and standing in the back of a Land Rover.

Belize locals also claimed they were not consulted about a royal engagement, and the couple were met with calls for slavery reparations from the monarchy in Jamaica.

Edward and Sophie also faced calls for reparations during their tour of Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines in April 2022.
The European Union said it had cancelled a diplomatic reception to prevent a radical ultranationalist Israeli minister from attending.

The act of protest by the EUs delegation to Israel against a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, the most religious and ultranationalist in the countrys history, could cause a diplomatic spat between Israel and the EU.

Relations have already been strained over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power faction, serves as the national security minister and was assigned to represent the Israeli government at the EUs Europe Day event on Tuesday.

Foreign minister Eli Cohen said on Sunday in a Kan radio interview that Mr Ben-Gvir had been assigned by the government secretary to attend not as a representative of the Jewish Power party  but to represent the government of Israel.

The EU said it decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for.

The remainder of the public event would take place as scheduled.

Mr Ben-Gvir is a former far-right activist and hard-line West Bank settler who has been convicted of incitement and support for a Jewish terror group.

As the governments representative at the Europe Day event, Mr Ben-Gvir would have addressed attendees.

Its a shame that the EU, which pretends to represent democratic values and multiculturalism, behaves with undiplomatic gagging, Mr Ben-Gvir said.

Mr Netanyahu returned to office in December at the head of a coalition that includes ultra-Orthodox parties and religious ultranationalists, including Mr Ben-Gvirs small Jewish Power faction.

The government has put expansion of West Bank settlements as a top priority.

The EU, along with most of the international community, considers Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem illegal under international law and obstacles to peace with the Palestinians.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for a future independent state.
Features Myanmar Power Shortage Leaves Millions at Mercy of Searing Summer

Downtown Yangon during a nighttime blackout. / RFA

Daw Tin Yi jolts awake at midnight as the lamp over her head flickers into life. The electricity just came back on!

The 65-year-old immediately rises from her bed and turns on the water pump.

Although the sound of the machine will disturb her neighbors, the Yangon resident knows she must act now, while there is electricity.

Next, she switches on her electric pan to cook the curry and rice.

Although it is 1.30 am, Daw Tin Yi goes about her domestic chores as if it were daytime.

If I stayed asleep, my family would be short of water tomorrow because there will be a power outage the whole day, Daw Tin Yi told The Irrawaddy.

Prolonged power outages have blighted life for people in Myanmar, especially in big cities like Yangon, since the military coup in 2021. The situation has got worse since last year, with electricity supply reduced to three hours or four hours per day, adding to other daily hardships.

Once reserved for sleep only, nighttime is now a period for housework as city-dwellers get busy pumping water, washing clothes, and cooking during the precious few hours when the power is on.

Ma Zar Chi, a mother of two children, is one among many who jump into action after dark. The woman in her forties says she stays awake the whole night in a desperate effort to pump enough water to store in her Yangon city home.

She tries to pump water every other night, but the disrupted electricity supply often reduces the flow to a trickle  or worse.

I lost sleep yesterday but I couldnt get even a little water. It was so frustrating, Ma Zar Chi told The Irrawaddy.

Reasons for power outages

Blackouts have expanded across the country since early 2022, affecting even the commercial hubs of Yangon and Mandalay. Myanmar has the lowest electrification rate in Southeast Asia with only 50 percent of households connected to the public grid, according to the World Bank.

According to a report by the NLD government in January 2021, 40 percent of Myanmars electricity is generated by hydropower, 14 percent by solar power plants, 34 percent from domestic natural gas, and 11 percent from LNG (natural gas).

Up until 2021, the country generated about 3,700 MW daily and Yangon consumed about half of that amount. However, daily power generation declined from 3,711 MW in October 2021 to 2,665 MW in March 2022.

Since the coup, LNG power plants producing about 750 MW have been suspended, with rising gas prices cited as the reason. The power plants were supplied by an LNG ship owned by Hong Kong-based CNTIC V Power, which left Myanmar permanently in March.

The state-owned Yangon Electrical Supply Corporation (YESC) said in April that production capacity of large hydropower plants in the national power system has fallen in line with dry, summer conditions, resulting in widespread electricity shortages across the country.

Junta boss Min Aung Hlaing claimed in January he was working on a plan to secure enough electricity by 2025.

The Myanmar government and the World Bank began implementing the National Electrification Project (Off-Grid) in 2015, aiming to hook up all Myanmar households by 2030. However, energy projects approved as part of the plan before the military takeover have been suspended following the coup.

A former National League for Democracy (NLD) MP said the NLD government prioritized development of the energy sector since it is a key sector for economic development.

Our government spent a lot of budget on electricity, the former MP told The Irrawaddy.

Extra expenses hit households, livelihoods

Yangon residents recall summer blackouts under the NLD government but said they dont compare with the current prolonged and frequent power outages.

Yangon local Ma Khin Khin Tun has been forced to use a back-up plan after prolonged power cuts threatened her livelihood. She bought a battery and inverter last year to use for her job.

It is terrible to have extra expenses in a situation where income has not increased while commodity prices are skyrocketing, she told The Irrawaddy.

Housewives like Daw Tin Yi and Ma Zar Chi are also spending more money to buy gas and charcoal for cooking.

The price of these fuels has increased two to three times compared with the pre-coup period as demand surges amid the rolling blackouts.

We need to fill up on gas for cooking and buy rechargeable LED battery bulbs for light at night. We are spending extra money because they dont provide electricity regularly, Daw Tin Yi told The Irrawaddy.

The people of Myanmar are also facing other economic and social hardships as a result of the electricity shortage.

Water shortages

Residents of Mandalay, Myanmars second-largest city, have faced water shortages since April as prolonged power outages put their water pumps out of action.

A Mandalay local explained that electricity is supplied for around three hours per day  half of what the Mandalay Electrical Supply Corporation (MESC) has promised.

People are struggling because they lack power and water amid the seriously hot weather, one resident of Mandalay told The Irrawaddy.

Locals from six townships in Mandalay are having to rely on water donated by social welfare organizations. The organizations are distributing water across Mandalay, except in Amarapura Township where residents have private wells.

One organization member said it has been distributing around 20,000 gallons of water per day on three trucks since April 20.

He said Mandalay was still suffering water shortages in the first week of May.

There has never been a citywide water outage for this length of time, he told the Irrawaddy.

SMEs on brink of collapse

The lack of electricity has left small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at risk of collapse under junta boss Min Aung Hlaing, who likes to emphasize the importance of SME development.

SME entrepreneurs are spending extra for fuel and transport, undermining the long-term viability of their business, according to Ma Theint, a food-product entrepreneur in Yangon.

She said many processes which need electricity are being powered by generators, which cost more money. A friend of hers who produced ice cream shut down the business in the past month.

Im also thinking of closing my business, Ma Theint told the Irrawaddy.

She said there had been no progress or development in the country under military rule.

I just want to tell him [Min Aung Hlaing] that he should not be ruling the country without any ability, she added.

Prominent anti-regime protest leader Dr. Tay Zar San said the countrys socio-economic situation was thrown into turmoil by the 2021 coup as the regime lacks any capacity to bring stability or development.

If military rule is entrenched, the situation will only get worse, he said.

Meanwhile, in the absence of electricity, people are longing for the rainy season to bring relief from sweltering summer temperatures.

Rolling blackouts mean the public is being exposed to daily temperatures of up to 40C without the protection of air-conditioners or electric fans, especially at night. The meteorological department forecasts this will be Myanmars hottest year on record.

People enduring night after night of sleeplessness in Yangon and elsewhere can only pray for early rain.

Exasperation has now reached boiling point on Myanmar social media.

I wouldnt mind even a cyclone hitting Yangon if it would make us cooler! declared one online post recently.
Burma Myanmar Junta Restricts Air Travel for Foreigners

Myanmar International Airport in Yangon in 2020. / The Irrawaddy

The military regime has banned foreigners from traveling by air to certain towns in Myanmar, according to tour operators.

The restrictions are reportedly part of joint efforts by Myanmar, Thailand and China to combat online scams and gambling operations being run by foreigners who have illegally entered the country.

As of Saturday, foreigners are barred from domestic flights linking Yangon, Naypyitaw, Myitkyina and other airports to Lashio and Tachilek in Shan State, unless they get prior approval from regime officials.

A local tour operator told The Irrawaddy: The letter was sent by airlines to us. The restriction targets all foreigners in the country, both those holding permanent residency or those doing business. The restriction is indefinite.

Foreigners including staff of United Nations agencies, embassies and international non-governmental organizations must seek advance approval from the juntas Hotels and Tourism Ministry to travel on the restricted domestic routes.

Criminal gangs based in China and Thailand exploited instability following the 2021 coup to flood into Myanmar border towns such as Lashio and Tachilek, said residents. The towns are now riddled with crime, ranging from kidnapping and robbery to online scams, prostitution and drug trafficking, according to locals.

The criminal operations are being funded by Chinese tycoons.

The flight restrictions come just a few days after Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang visited Naypyitaw and urged the junta to take measures to ensure stability and development in border regions, where Beijing has considerable investments.
Burma Myanmar Junta Troops Burn 530 Village Houses in a Single Day

Let Htoke Kone after junta troops raided on Saturday.

At least 530 village houses were burned in Myinmu Township by Myanmar junta troops on Saturday, displacing many Sagaing Region residents.

A man in his 50s was killed and two younger men were injured when around 200 junta troops raided Let Htoke Taw village, according to a resistance member.

One man was killed and two were wounded when junta troops opened fire on the villagers, he said.

Let Htoke Taw had around 600 houses.

Junta troops shelled the village when residents attempted to put out the fires.

Troops fired two 60mm shells when we tried to put out the fire, a villager said.

The soldiers usually passed Let Htoke Taw when moving between their outposts near Nat Yay Kan and Boe Min Gyi Kin villages, according to residents.

We didnt expect them to raid our village because they normally bypassed us. We fled in a rush and didnt have time to bring anything with us, only the clothes we were wearing, he said.

The same troops raided Gway Pin Taw village on Monday and continued east with villagers fleeing their homes to avoid indiscriminate junta killings and arbitrary arrests.

Let Htoke Taw villagers cannot return to their homes as junta troops are still near the village.

More than 3,000 people need food and medical aid, according to a resistance member.

Sagaing Region is an anti-regime stronghold with junta troops carrying out repeated arson attacks.

Kan Taw in Myinmu Township was set alight by junta troops last year, destroying around 550 houses.

At least 1,300 houses have been burned down in the township since the 2021 coup, according to Sagaing sources.
Burma NLD Township Chief's Relatives Killed in Yangon

Mingaladon Township police station. / CJ

The two relatives of a National League for Democracy (NLD) leader were shot dead at their home in Mingaladon Township, Yangon, on Sunday, according to media reports.

Daw Kyu Kyu Thin, 38, and her 10-year-old daughter Ma Chit Tha Mee, the younger sister and niece of U Win Naing, an NLD central executive committee member, were shot by three unknown gunmen, according to residents.

The gunmen arrived in a vehicle while the victims were at their shop in Kone Tala Baung village.

They are suspected to be pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia members but pro-junta Telegram channels blamed resistance groups.

U Bo Bo U, the NLDs vice-chair for Sanchaung Township, told The Irrawaddy: This is another crime against humanity by the junta.

In April 2022, the grandfather of actor Hein Htet, who had joined the resistance, was shot dead by unknown gunmen at his house in Shwe Nathar village, Mingaladon Township.

The pro-junta Yangon Thwe Thout group claimed responsibility for the killing.

Pro-regime groups have abducted and killed many NLD members and supporters in Mandalay, Yangon and Tanintharyi regions.

The NLD said in late March that 1,235 party members have been detained since the 2021 coup and 26 members have died in junta custody. Another 63 party members have been killed elsewhere.

The properties of 371 NLD members, including 206 former lawmakers, have been seized by the regime.
War Against the Junta Over a Dozen Myanmar Junta Forces, Five Resistance Members Killed in Three Days of Clashes

Resistance fighters of the Thaton Peoples Defense Force in Mon State. / TPDF

At least 13 Myanmar junta forces as well as five resistance members were killed in the last three days as Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs) and an ethnic armed organization (EAO) continued to attack regime targets across the country.

In one case, regime forces killed and beheaded eight people including five resistance members in Chaung U Township, upper Myanmar.

The Irrawaddy has collected the following reports of significant attacks from PDFs and the EAO.

Some military casualties could not be independently verified.

Military column attacked in Sagaing



Combined resistance fighters engage in a clash with regime forces in Myaung Township on Saturday. / MBT

Many regime forces are believed to have been killed and injured in Myaung Township, Sagaing Region on Saturday evening when five PDF groups jointly attacked a military detachment raiding villages, said the resistance group Myingyan Black Tiger, which coordinated the attack.

The regime forces were attacked from close range while traveling to Kyaukyi Police station from a village. During an hourlong clash, PDF groups used several heavy explosives to attack the regime troops.

After the clash, the bodies of killed and injured soldiers were transported to the west bank of the Chindwin River on three motorboats, said the PDF group.

Eight people including five PDF members killed by junta troops in Sagaing

Local media outlet Chaung U Revolution reported that eight people including five resistance members were killed by junta forces in Chaung U Township, Sagaing Region last Friday night.

A military column beheaded three resistance members during their raid on a training camp of Chaung U PDF in the township. The junta raid came after a clash with local resistance forces in the area.

The regime forces also beheaded two other male civilians from a nearby monastery. The same military column later killed three more people including a 65-year-old woman fleeing the regime forces, said the media unit.

Two junta soldiers killed by drone strikes in Sagaing

Myaung Special PDF group claimed to have killed two regime soldiers as it and other PDF groups jointly used drones to drop bombs on a military column from Kyaukyit police outpost in Myaung Township, Magwe Region on Saturday.

Military vehicle bombed in Mandalay



A truck carrying soldiers faces a mine ambush in Myingyan Township on Sunday. / Myingyan Messages

At least four regime troops were killed in Myingyan Township, Mandalay Region on Sunday when local resistance group Shwe Chan Thar guerrilla force used land mines to attack a truck carrying 25 regime forces, claimed the resistance group.

The vehicle was ambushed while traveling from a village to the Myingyan town.

The video shot by the PDF group shows a moving truck facing a heavy blast.

Junta immigration office bombed in Mandalay

At least three office staff were injured in Amarapura Township, Mandalay city last Friday when the revolutionary group No More Dictatorship PDF used a grenade to attack the junta-run township immigration office, said the PDF group.

The group also urged people to avoid regime forces and government offices working for the military regime.

Military base, police outposts attacked in Mon

At least six regime forces including policemen were killed in Bilin and Kyaikhto townships, Mon State on Saturday when several PDF groups including the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the armed wing of the Karen Nation Union (KNU), attacked a military headquarters and two police outposts, claimed Kyaikhto Revolution Force (KRF), which joined the attacks.

First, the combined group used 60-mm mortar shells to bomb the base of Military Division 44 in Kyaikhto Township, killing three junta soldiers and injuring another.

On that afternoon, resistance groups raided the Win Ka police outpost in Bilin Township, killing two policemen, said KRF.

At the same time, other members of the resistance groups used drones to drop four bombs on Taung Swun police outpost in Bilin.

In the drone strikes, one more policeman was killed, claimed the KRF.

Military convoys ambushed in Magwe

Pakokku PDF claimed to have injured four regime soldiers on Sunday as it conducted drone strikes and a mine ambush against military vehicles in Pakokku Township, Magwe Region.

First, it used 12 land mines to ambush three military vehicles transporting rations near a village.

It later dropped bombs on five more military vehicles using drones while the convoy was heading to the ambush site.

Junta-appointed administrator assassinated in Bago

Bago Region PDF said its members assassinated Ko Maung Myo, a junta-appointed administrator of Yay Lal Village in Phyuu Township, Bago Region on Saturday.

The victim, who attended Pyu Saw Htee militia training, was notorious for oppressing civilians and reporting to the regime about the movements of revolutionary groups in the area.

Prior to the assassination, Phyuu PDF repeatedly warned him in person not to collaborate with the regime, but the victim failed to comply with the suggestions, said Bago Region PDF.

Township police station bombed in Ayeyarwady

The resistance group Ayaarwaddy Dolphin Defense Force (Mawgyun) said it and other two PDF groups used a 40-mm bomb to attack the township police station at Bogalay town, Ayeyarwady Region on Saturday night.

Details of the damage and police casualties were unknown. After being attacked, regime police randomly responded with firearms and heavy explosives, the PDF group said.
Guest Column Uprisings in MyanmarThen and Now

A pro-democracy protest in Yangon in August 1988

It was hard not to feel a sense of deja vu when the military stepped in to assume absolute power in February two years ago. It was like 1988 all over again. Demonstrators staged initially peaceful protests in the streets of cities and towns all over the country and were met with bullets from the military. Many were killed, and activists of various kinds fled to the border areas where they linked up with the ethnic rebel armies, which have been resisting central government control for decades. A government truly representing the people was set up and became active mostly in exile. A broader front including some of the ethnic armed groups was formed. And the struggle to topple an immensely unpopular military regime continued without anyone seeming to win the war. Those are the most common superficial observationsbecause there are fundamental differences between what happened after 1988 and now. As a journalist who has covered Myanmar affairs for more than 40 yearsincluding the 1988 uprising and its aftermathI have been approached by some close friends who have asked me to explain why the current uprising is not just a repeat of what happened in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

First of all, mobile phones and the internet, with their associated digital media and email, did not exist in the 1980s. I was banned from visiting the country at that time, but managed with extreme difficulty to get news through a confidential network of raspy telephone lines and occasional letters, which were hand-delivered to me in Bangkok by trusted contacts. I would not have been able to write my articles for the now defunct Far Eastern Economic Review without the help of those contacts inside the country, and I am forever grateful to them for providing me with up-to-date information, often at great risk to themselves. Photos had to be taken by cumbersome cameras with film, and the rolls smuggled out of the country and developed in Thailand or elsewhere. Some grainy video recordings also made it to safety outside Myanmar, as did printed material ranging from flyers and posters to independently produced newspapers and journals. What has been preserved constitutes important historical material, but it is limited and cannot be compared with what is available online today. Now, nothing happens inside Myanmara protest, a gun battle, an assassination or an atrocitywithout the outside world getting to know about it within a day or two, or even hours. Young people in Myanmar are very cyber savvy and continue to outsmart the military, which is much less adept at using online technology.

At the same time, it is important to remember that the brutality the military unleashed on the protests in the cities and towns in 1988 was far worse than what was witnessed after the 2021 coup. When people took to the streets on Aug. 8, soldiers sprayed automatic rifle fire into crowds of unarmed people not only in Yangon, where even armored vehicles equipped with Bren machine guns were used to crush the demonstrations, but also in Bago, Sagaing, Taunggyi and many other places. An especially bloody and virtually unpublicized event took place in Sagaing on Aug. 11 when troops and policemen commanded by Kyaw Zwa, an army veteran and the local head of the ruling Burma Socialist Program Party as well as chairman of the Sagaing Divisions Peoples Council, gunned down at least 100 demonstrators, among them many Buddhist monks. According to estimates by local medical personnel, thousands of civiliansnot hundreds as often mentioned in later writings about the uprisingwere gunned down by the military in 1988. It would have been 3,000 countrywide in August, and another 1,000 when the military stepped in to reassert their grip on power on Sept. 18, which was also when a new junta, the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC), was formed.

The carnage prompted about 10,000 mostly young, urban activists to leave their homes and trek through the jungle and over the mountains to remote border areas controlled by the Karen National Union (KNU), the New Mon State Party (NMSP), the Karenni Army, and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA). Only a handful made it to areas in northeastern Shan State where the Communist Party of Burma had its strongholds, and no one went to the area on the Thai border controlled by the drug lord Khun Sa because they knew that he had a tacit business arrangement with the Myanmar military. In January 1996, Khun Sa also surrendered, dissolved his army and moved with his closest business associates to Yangon.

The flight to the border led to the formation of a number of alliances and fronts. On Nov. 5, 1988, the All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF) was set up at a meeting in Kawmorrah, a KNU camp on the Thai border (which now, incidentally, is called Shwe Kokko, a new town under the control of a junta-allied Border Guard Forceand where many of the newly built casinos are located). Two weeks later, the ethnic Burman resistance and several ethnic armed groups formed the Democratic Alliance of Burma (DAB). Then came the May 18, 1990 election, which resulted in a resounding victory for the National League for Democracy (NLD). But the assembly that was elected was never convened. Instead, the SLORC began arresting elected MPsand more pro-democracy activists fled to the border. On Dec. 18 that year, they formed the National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma (NCGUB), which in turn led to the formation of a broader front including NLD exiles, members of the NCGUB and the ethnic armed groups called the National Council of the Union of Burma, or NCUB. After the NCGUB was formed, I wrote a then-much-criticized article for the Far Eastern Economic Review titled Cry of Desperation. I stressed that no foreign country was likely to recognize the border-based cabinet and it was unlikely that it would have any impact on the situation inside Myanmar. The resistance was holed up in camps along Myanmars borders and the plethora of groups and acronyms also made sympathizers outside the country confused; who should they listen to and cooperate with? Who was who in the alphabet soup of armies and fronts?

I visited the resistance camps on the Myanmar side of the border with Thailand several times and also went to Mangshi and Ruili in Yunnan, China, where I met activists based in Kachin State. It was, to be absolutely frank, not an encouraging sight. I had no reason to doubt the sincerity of the young ABSDF activists who had given up everything to fight for what they believed in. But the way in which they bore uniforms adorned with flashes and insignia, and had their organization structured into numbered military units, made them no different from other armed groups fighting in the jungle-clad frontier areas. And it did not last long. The ABSDF soon split into competing factions and, for a while, there were even two ABSDFs. The activists in Kachin State even turned against each other; one group accused another of being government agents and killed them in a grisly massacre. The DAB collapsed when several of the ethnic armed groups entered into ceasefire agreements with the military. The NCGUB never became more than an acronym.

In the mid-1990s, I visited Dr. Cynthia Maung, an ethnic Karen doctor who ranand still runsa clinic in the Thai border town of Mae Sot. I asked her what kind of patients from the ABSDF she had received over the years, and she summed it up succinctly: Well, the first year, it was mostly malaria cases. Then came those with gunshot wounds. Now its mostly deliveries. The activists were young people from urban areas who were not used to the hard life in the jungle, and became sick from malaria and other diseases. Those who were determined to fight and still had some strength left ventured out onto the battlefield, and were often wounded. In the end, many settled down in Mae Sot and other border towns, had children and raised families. Many former activists also ended up in exile, primarily in Europe, Australia, Canada and the United States.

What remained of the ABSDF finally gave up the armed struggle and decided to focus on disseminating information about the dictatorship and networking with international NGOs. But that, curiously, did not prevent the ABSDF from being one of eight armed groups which signed a so-called Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) with the military in October 2015. Needless to say, of the signatories, only twothe KNU and the Restoration Council of Shan Statehad armies worth the name. On Feb. 18, 2018, the government proudly announced that two more groups, the Lahu Democratic Union and the NMSP, had signed the NCA. But the Lahu outfit is little more than an NGO based in Thailand, and todays Mon army is tiny compared to what it once was. The NMSP had, in any event, entered into a ceasefire agreement with the military in June 1995, so it was unclear what difference it would make. Although the NCA is a signed agreement and those struck in the late 1980s and 1990s were not (the sole exception being the ceasefire with the KIA, which insisted on having it formalized in writing), there is no reasonand there never was oneto believe that the military would be seriously interested in finding a peaceful, political solution to Myanmars civil wars. The KIA came under attack in June 2011 and fighting broke out between the military and the KNU as well as the Chin National Front, another NCA signatory, shortly after the February 2021 coup.

It is true that there are some striking similarities between the situation after the 1988 uprising and today. The National Unity Government (NUG), set up by elected MPs and others in April 2021, seems to mirror the NCGUB, and the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC), which combines Burman and ethnic armies, looks like a contemporary version of the NCUB. But a closer look at todays resistance reveals that the most obvious difference between then and now, access to the internet, is not the only one.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the activists actually believed that some foreign uncles would come and support them. After all, the US Congress had issued statements condemning the dictatorship, and so had the European Union, Australia, and other democracies around the world. Todays fighters for democracy seem to have no such illusions. They know that Myanmar is not Ukraine and no weapons or other material support will come from abroad. Relying on their own resources, they are fighting with home-made guns and weapons captured from the military and the police, and they have also brought the war to the Myanmar heartland. Although many of the resistance fighters were trained by the Karen or Kachin armies and did get some weapons from them as well, its no longer a jungle-based insurgency. Financial support for the struggle comes from the many Myanmar nationals living in exile, including through some imaginative methods like a popular online video game, which also serves as a propaganda tool. Its now or never.

The resistance in the heartland is often lumped together as the Peoples Defense Forces, or PDFs, but that doesnt mean that they are under any effective central command. Nor do they necessarily take orders from the NUG. But that also makes them harder to crush, because the military cant find out who the leaders are, and how and where they operate. There are dozens of local resistance armies that depend on popular support in their respective areas and given the nationwide, deep-rooted hatred of the military, it is not difficult for the activists to mingle with crowds anywhere. It is obvious that the generals messed with the wrong generation when they staged their ill-fated coup.

Another important difference is that the economy was in a shambles after the 1988 uprising but, to the surprise of many, the SLORC (renamed the State Peace and Development Council in 1997) managed to not only rebuild but, by attracting foreign investment, also create a fledgling capitalist system to replace the old socialism that had prevailed from 1962 to 1988. The economic fallout of the 2021 coup is a severe crisis. Foreign investors are leaving and those who remain are reeling under the effects of boycotts and sanctions. In this area, digital media have made a decisive impact. The true extent of the 1988 massacres was little known outside the country, and although some sanctions were imposed even then, they were limited and had little or no effect. Today, the viciousness of the military is well documented, and anyone doing business with them is named and shamed on the internet.

The adversary the pro-democracy forces are facing is also not the same as before. Junta leader and self-appointed prime minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing lacks the capabilities and military skills of his predecessors. Moreover, he is uncharismatic and every time he appears in public or on the TV, he appears nervous and unsure of himself. But if he is replaced, it would most likely be by someone who is more hardline than he is, such as Vice Senior General Soe Win, who often oversees operations, including devastating air strikes, against any identifiable resistance stronghold; more often than not, these turn out to be villages and entire towns. The military may be more isolated from the public at large than ever before and it has become the countrys most hated institution. There is also little doubt that the various resistance forces continue to enjoy popular support, and two years after the coup they have not given up. Rather, fighting across the country is intensifying.

But there is a huge problem facing the resistance forces: They do not today have the weaponry that is needed to defeat the well-armed military with all the firepower it has at its disposal, the most devastating being air power. The military may not win the war, but they also cannot lose. And mediation efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have failed and even backfired on the bloc as it has exposed its weaknesses. Guided by two cardinal principles, noninterference and consensus, there is actually nothing it can do when there is a crisis in a member country. International peacemakers and conflict-resolutionists have time and again shown that their efforts have been a waste of time and money; the generals simply wont listen and, even if they pretend to, they wont take any advice from such outsiders. That brings us to the sad reality: the military has been in power under different guises since General Ne Wins coup in 1962, and nothing is likely to change unless and until there is a split at the top or a mutiny within the ranks. That was true in the late 1980s and remains so today. But such a development could also lead to an even bloodier civil war, a potentially devastating scenario for which the outside world and all those involved in Myanmar must be prepared. Nevertheless, if the military remains united, the decades-long civil wars will continue to bleed the country for years to comeand the main victims will be the people of Myanmar, who are suffering under the brutal rule of a power-obsessed clique of men in green.
Down to two strikes, the lead attorney for Raul Mas Canosa in his lawsuit against the City of Coral Gables regarding Automatic License Plate Readers said Wednesday he is "disappointed" but not deterred.

Last week, the Third District Court of Appeal in Miami sided with the previous Circuit Court's decision that maintaining information for as long as three years from the license plate images and sharing that data with countless other law enforcement agencies was deemed constitutional and did not infringe on privacy rights.

"Certainly we were disappointed by a lack of reasoning in the decision, which courts can do, but I think a more wholesome explanation (is needed)," said attorney Sheng Li, with the Washington, DC-based New Civil Liberties Alliance.

The opinion by the Third District Court of Appeal was ruled as "affirmed," but not final, pending a timely motion for a rehearing, if necessary, before it becomes a mandate.

"We are still talking to Mr. Raul Mas Canosa and considering our next steps, but we haven't made any final decisions," Li said. "Obviously, we feel we have a strong case."

Mas Canosa's attorney wanted to make clear that his client is not challenging the actual license plate readers or where they are positioned, which can help in certain law enforcement cases, but simply the three-year storage of data and the sharing of that data.

In the original Raul Mas Canosa v. Coral Gables case, the well-known Coral Gables resident felt that people with bad intentions could hack into that data system and track or plot his (or others') daily routine. He said he was easy to spot, with his dog often looking out the vehicle's window.

But, during the appeals arguments last month before judges Eric William Herndon, Monica Gordo and Alexander Bokor, attorney Frank Shepherd, representing the City of Coral Gables, said, "We say they do not invade (Mas Canosa's) constitutional rights, at the federal or state level. The cameras only take pictures of the (license) plate."

In August of 2021, Judge Charles Johnson in the 11th Judicial Circuit Court granted the City of Coral Gables a Motion for Summary Judgment, ruling that the use of ALPR cameras do not violate the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution or the Right to Privacy in the Florida Constitution.

There are now 30 ALPR cameras throughout Coral Gables, even on a portion of I-95.

What is complicating matters now is that New Liberties Civil Alliance lawyers also are involved in a similar case on Marco Island. That city's attorneys have filed a Motion to Dismiss in a federal court, where the trial court is still being briefed.

"We need to consult both (parties)," Li said, to see what the next steps are. "It's a little too early."

Across the country, there have been similar privacy invasion cases, some involving pole cameras, but none regarding the Automatic License Plate Readers in Florida, similar to those on Key Biscayne.

In Baltimore, Li said, a case against aerial surveillance has proceeded all the way to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals against the system, so that gives his team hope.

"The bottom line is that surveillance systems are being tested all over the country with the privacy (issues)," he said. "We're hoping Florida courts will follow that trend."
As Kogi residents prepare for the Nov. 11 governorship election, the state government has cautioned politicians against promoting ethnic sentiments and other divisive tendencies.

Mr Kingsley Fanwo, information and communication commissioner, in a statement in Lokoja on Sunday, urged residents not to succumb to the "antics of mischief makers and ethnic bigots".

"Such bigots are out to stoke the flames of ethnic resentment, division and hate. They are agents of political desperadoes.

"Kogi government is so concerned over the activities of those desperate individuals bent on destroying the unity and peace being enjoyed by the state.

"Their unintelligent approach has been to push ethnically divisive words and attribute same to Gov Yahaya Bello in order to incite certain ethnic groups against his person and his administration.

"By God's grace, we, the people of Kogi, will not fall to their antics. Clearly, those inciting statements are false and are dragging our state back to the conquered era of ethnic chauvinism.

"What binds us together is stronger than the desperate wishes of the enemies of the state," he declared.

He explained that Bello's polices, programmes, projects, appointments and unifying leadership credentials had succeeded in building the state into what politics should not balkanize.

According to him, Kogi remains a united and prosperous state.

"Kogi is a united state. Members of the public should ignore those inciting falsehoods and report those who circulate them to law enforcement agencies for prompt action.

"People responsible for such incitements do not have the interest of the state at heart," he said.

Fanwo added that Bello would continue to work hard to improve the livelihood of the people and keep them united irrespective of religion, ethnicity and political beliefs. (NAN)
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.
Kano State workers have declared President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Joe Ajaero, "Workers Warrior."

The NLC President who was on his first official visit to Kano State yesterday, was decorated with the title "Sarkin Yakin Nigeria" (the War Lord of Nigeria) by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of the state.

The decoration of Ajaero as Sarkin Yakin Nigeria attracted jubilation by workers especially members of the NLC, who were calling him, 'the worrior for the workers, the struggler for the workers."

In a viral video, Governor Ganduje personally decorated Ajaero with all the regalia depicting his title and a sword which was immediately followed by the solidarity song by workers and government officials that witnessed the brief ceremony.

Meanwhile, Concerned Northern Forum, CNF, and Nigeria Youth Alliance, NYA, weekend described as baseless and cheap blackmail the allegations by Arewa Youths Assembly, AYA that the NLC leadership was planning to scuttle the May 29 inauguration of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, among others.

CNF and NYA, said it was shameful that AYA allowed itself to be used by politicians, condemning politicisation of everything including the May Day celebration where the AYA claimed only the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi, was invited to the Eagle Square to the exclusion other candidates in the 2023 presidential election.

Deputy Spokesperson of CNF, Mohammed Abbas, in a statement in Kaduna, among others, said "We are particularly concerned that AYA would allow itself to be used for disunity and cheap blackmail by dragging the NLC into politics. It is important to note that the Nigeria Labour Congress is a pan-Nigerian organisation and cannot be governed by primordial sentiments such as religion and ethnicity. NLC being a pressure group had invited all other presidential aspirants and the President-elect to its May Day (Labour Day) celebration. The sitting President was also invited, who then sent the Secretary of the Government to the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustafpha to represent him at the occasion.

"We want to state unequivocally that we have no knowledge of any plans by the NLC to scuttle the inauguration of the President-elect, Senator Bola Tinubu, on May 29. We call on Nigeria and the security agencies to disregard the baseless and unfounded allegations by Arewa Youth Assembly as Nigerians remain resolute and committed to the peace and unity of our dear nation."

Similarly, National Coordinator of NYA, Toheeb Adekunle, in astatment said he was also miffed by the allegation that Ajaero is working with the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, to actualise the presidential ambition of Mr Peter Obi of LP and that Ajaero is using the NLC to promote Biafran agenda among others allegations.

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"We want to state that these allegations are cheap blackmail intended to divert the attention of the leadership of the Congress from its obligation or mission to the people.

"We wish to reiterate that the NLC is a pan-Nigerian organisation not governed by primordial sentiments such as ethnicity or religion.

Moreover, Joe Ajaero has not employed any one since he resumed office as President of the Congress. Neither has he accepted a gift of an SUV bullet proof van from any one.

"Neither Ajaero nor NLC has any plan to scuttle the inauguration of Senator Bola Tinubu. Those who make this allegation forget that Ajaero was among the first leaders of thought to advise aggrieved parties to go to court.

"More amusing is the allegation that Mr Peter Obi was invited to the commemoration of May Day to the exclusion of other presidential candidates. The records are there for all to see that all the candidates were invited. However, the right to honour this invitation resided with the invitees.

"It is childish and unreasonable for anyone reasonable acting reasonably to accuse Ajaero and Emmanuel Ugboaja of pursuing ethnic agenda at the Congress let alone IPOB. The public pronouncements of Joe Ajaero and conduct have been in the fine traditions of the past leaders of the Congress some of whom were even more fiery or combative. To therefore, label and profile the NLC President as an ethicist is not only criminal but suggestive of fear of Ajaero in some quarters."
Huye district is mourning the lives of six people, including three students, after a 16-day rescue attempt failed to find any survivors in a huge mine collapse in Kinazi sector on April 19.

The bodies of the victims remain nowhere to be found despite a rescue mission that has lasted for the past two weeks.

ALSO READ: Huye mine accident: Landslide derails rescue efforts

On Saturday, May 6, State Minister in the ministry of local government, Assumpta Ingabire, was among the government officials who met, and condoled with the families of the bereaved in a vigil held in Huye district.

Minister Ingabire said that despite an effort that has seen rescue missions going as deep as 70 meters to be able to find the bodies, there has been little chance in finding any.

"At this point there is little chance that they are still alive," she told the families of the bereaved.

"We also want to halt the mission because of the likely impact it could potentially have on the environment," She added.

According to Deputy government spokesperson, Alain Mukuralinda, families of the bereaved are expected to hold a funeral on Tuesday, May 9.

"Government condoles with the families and is also committed to supporting them closely," Mukuralinda said.
The breathtaking scenery of unique, enormous rocky stones in Kirehe District has captivated the attention of many, but now the focus is shifting towards harnessing their potential to benefit the local communities. Residents in Kirehe district are calling for the responsible exploitation of these remarkable natural resources, recognizing the opportunity they hold.

Upon interviewing residents in Kirehe District, The New Times discovered their fervent desire to harness the potential of these unique, massive rocky stones for the betterment of their community. While the rocks currently serve as picturesque backdrops for photography enthusiasts, residents believe that their true value lies in their potential utilization.

Samson Nkunzingoma, a resident of Nyarubuye Sector, shares his perspective: "They offer stunning backgrounds for pictures, and photographers appreciate the scenery. However, personally, I believe they could serve the community in a more significant way if properly exploited. Just look at them--they are colossal rocks that hold immense potential."

These abundant rocky stones span across five sectors of the district, including Nyarubuye, Mahama, Nasho, Mpanga, and Mushikiri. With their enchanting vistas, tourists flock to Kirehe district, drawn to the shores of picturesque lakes such as Nasho, Mpanga, and Cyambwe, all observed from atop these towering rocks.

In response to residents' concerns about harnessing the potential of these rocky treasures for the benefit of host communities, Kirehe District Mayor Bruno Rangira explained, "An ongoing collaborative mapping study involving the Rwanda Development Board, the District, and the Rwanda Mining Board aims to assess the extent and means of exploiting these stones to produce glass, sand, and tiles."

Rangira emphasized that the intention to process the stones into glass and sand aims to showcase the area's unique natural wealth, stimulate the local economy, and generate employment opportunities for Kirehe's residents.

The mayor added, "The implementation of the stone exploitation project will also result in infrastructure development, including roads, electricity, and water supply, leaving a positive legacy for our residents. This endeavor will create employment opportunities and allow locals to supply these facilities."

In addition to the glass production plans, visitors will have the chance to participate in traditional mountain climbing activities, enjoy unforgettable experiences at campgrounds, and contribute to job creation in the host communities.

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Regarding the progress of the project, Rangira revealed, "We are currently in the initial stages of mapping. The Rwanda Development Board has already conducted two site visits, and we have partnered with the Mastercard Foundation for a comprehensive needs assessment. An expression of interest has been issued, as we actively seek potential investors."

The authorities are currently searching for investors who possess the capability to bring the project to fruition. Three interested investors have emerged thus far, and the authorities are carefully considering their ability to implement the project effectively.

For years, the vast rocky stones spanning across the five sectors of Kirehe District remained untapped. However, district officials have recognized the potential benefits that these natural riches hold for the host communities. Therefore, they are committed to sustainable exploitation, utilizing the stones for both tourism purposes and processing them into valuable resources.
In Rwanda, like many other societies, traditional gender roles have often been associated with expectations for men to exhibit strength, stoicism, and emotional restraint. However, studies suggest that this societal expectation may have negative consequences for men's mental health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Evidence Network report released in 2020, men are less likely than women to seek help for mental health issues and are much more likely to commit suicide. The main sociocultural barriers to men's help-seeking related to masculinity norms were identified as self-reliance, difficulty in expressing emotions, and self-control.

ALSO READ: Men and mental health: Why it matters that we talk about it

Professor Vincent Sezibera, a lecturer at the University of Rwanda and director of the Center for Mental Health, emphasises that in the Rwandan context, phrases like 'Ba Umugabo' (be a strong man), reinforce societal norms that discourage men from openly expressing their emotions or seeking help for their complaints or distress.

"It's like they don't have the social permission to admit that they are not okay. So, instead of seeking help, men have to find a way to manage the distress by themselves," he said.

Sezibera explained that due to a societal norm that discourages men from showing emotions, such as crying, people often assume they are fine. However, he noted that this perception can be misleading and actually hinders their willingness to seek help.

"For certain disorders such as addictive disorders," he continued, "we observe higher scores among men compared to women. Because they do not seek help, they tend to internalise the suffering and resort to coping strategies that may involve drug use and uncontrolled alcohol consumption."

Addressing the accessibility of mental health services, Sezibera mentioned that although these services are available, some men still refrain from accessing them due to the perception that it indicates weakness and failure, leading to resistance.

According to the 2018 Rwanda Mental Health Survey by Rwanda Biomedical Centre, out of 19,110 participants, 61.7 per cent were aware of mental health services, while only 5.3 per cent reported actually utilising them.

Sezibera said it is important to continue educating and increasing the level of understanding within the general population, not just among men with the goal of helping people recognise that mental illnesses or disorders are conditions that require attention, care, and treatment from qualified professionals.

This, he added, also involves challenging prevailing beliefs surrounding mental health.

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ALSO READ: Health experts laud partner efforts to scale up mental health services

Invictus Foundation is one of the organisations raising mental health awareness, specifically targeting men.

According to the chairperson, Christopher Ojiyah Darkins, access to mental health services in Rwanda is limited, particularly in rural areas, which can prevent men from getting the help they need.

He is aware that different men in Rwanda have experienced traumatic events, yet societal expectations around masculinity put pressure on them to be strong and suppress their emotions, which can lead to feelings of isolation and distress.

The organisation offers an online and offline platform that supports men through deep, open, and honest dialogues about the issues they might be struggling with.

Given the unparalleled tragedy experienced by the people of Rwanda, that is the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Darkins said the organisation is focusing on healing the trauma caused.

"Without strong and mentally stable men, society puts an undue burden on our women," he said. "Men should prioritise their mental health and get support if necessary."

Darkins underscored that improving attitudes towards mental health and access to services is crucial for promoting men's mental health in Rwanda.
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
The UNs top aid official was in Saudi Arabia on Sunday for ceasefire talks between Sudans warring generals, as concern grows for the humanitarian situation at the start of a fourth week of gun battles and air strikes in the Sudanese capital.

Multiple truce deals have been declared, without effect, since fighting erupted between army and paramilitary forces on April 15 in the poverty-stricken country with a history of political instability.

Fierce combat since then has killed hundreds of people, most of them civilians, wounded thousands and sparked multiple warnings of a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

More than 100,000 people have already fled the country.

Ahmed al-Amin, a resident of the Haj Yousif district in northeastern Khartoum, on Sunday told AFP he saw fighter jets flying above our heads and heard the sounds of explosions and anti-aircraft fire.

Across the Red Sea in the Saudi city of Jeddah, talks were underway aiming for a ceasefire that could push efforts to bring humanitarian aid to the besieged population.

Those unable to flee face dire shortages of water, food, medicines and other staples.

Even before the war began about one-third of Sudans people required humanitarian assistance, the UN said.

The fighting has seen aid workers killed, health facilities attacked, and the UN projects that the number of acutely food insecure people in Sudan could increase by between two and 2.5 million if the war is prolonged.

Analysts expect that it will be.

Gunfire everywhere

Martin Griffiths, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, was in Jeddah Sunday and the purpose of his visit is to engage in humanitarian issues related to Sudan, spokesperson Eri Kaneko said.

In Port Sudan last week, Griffiths said he had been informed by the UNs World Food Programme that six trucks bringing aid to the Darfur region had been looted en route.

He called for security guarantees clearly given by militaries, to protect humanitarian systems to deliver.

There was no indication that Griffiths would play a direct role in the Saudi discussions about a possible ceasefire.

The generals leading the warring parties have said little about the talks being held in Jeddah since Saturday.

On Thursday US President Joe Biden signed an executive order that broadens authority to impose sanctions over Sudans conflict. It did not name potential targets.

Army spokesman Brigadier General Nabil Abdalla said the Jeddah talks were on how a truce can be correctly implemented to serve the humanitarian side, while Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries, only said on Twitter that he welcomed the technical discussions.

Riyadh and Washington have supported the pre-negotiation talks and urged the belligerents to get actively involved.

Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit expressed his support Sunday for the indirect negotiations in order to prevent an escalation of the current conflict into a prolonged war that divides Sudan into warring regions.

At the same meeting of the bloc in Cairo, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry warned of a slide into a worse and more dangerous security situation affecting the region.

Heavyweights in the pan-Arab bloc are divided on Sudan. Egypt solidly supports the regular army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the UAE is in favour of the RSF, according to experts.

Egypt, to which more than 60,000 refugees have fled, announced Shoukry will head Monday to South Sudan and Chad, both of which also border Sudan and have themselves received tens of thousands of people escaping the war.

Thousands have also crossed into neighbouring Ethiopia, most of them third-country nationals.

This is my second war that I flee, Syrian refugee Salam Kanhoush told AFP at the Ethiopian border town of Metema.

Women carrying infants and donkey carts laden with baggage converge on the bustling, dusty crossing.

Our safety and life comes first, Eritrean refugee Sara told AFP, asking to be identified only by her first name. We cant be thinking of the things that we have left behind in Sudan.

The one thing they were relieved to abandon was the violence. Muhammad Yusuf, a Sudanese refugee, described gunfire everywhere and expecting to be a victim at anytime.

No apparent consensus

Hopes for international efforts to silence the guns are modest.

The lowest common denominator of the international community is a cessation of hostilities, said Sudan researcher Aly Verjee at Swedens University of Gothenburg. But there is no apparent consensus on what to do beyond that initial objective.

Burhan and Daglo jointly staged Sudans latest coup in 2021.

That putsch derailed a transition to democracy after the ouster two years earlier of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir following mass pro-democracy protests.

Bashir had unleashed the Janjaweed militia in response to an uprising in Sudans Darfur region in 2003, leading to war crimes charges against him and others.

The RSF are descended from the Janjaweed.

Since their coup, Burhan and Daglo have fallen out in a bitter power struggle, lastly over a plan to integrate the RSF into the army.

At least 700 people have been killed in the fighting, which has spread beyond Khartoum to Darfur and elsewhere, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The Sudanese doctors union said 479 of the dead were civilians. AFP
As international mediators strive to resolve conflicts in Sudan, fighting breaks out in Khartoum

The sound of fighting could be heard in south Khartoum on Sunday as representatives from Sudans conflicting parties gathered in Saudi Arabia for talks aimed at ending a conflict that has lasted three weeks, causing hundreds of deaths and leading to an exodus of residents.

International mediators have high hopes for the US-Saudi plan, the first serious attempt to end the fighting between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has resulted in the Sudanese capital turning into a war zone.

The plan aims to bring an end to the humanitarian crisis and restore civilian rule after years of unrest.

Pre-negotiation talks started on Saturday and were expected to continue in the coming days, with a goal of reaching an effective short-term ceasefire that would enable humanitarian assistance.

In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said that Saudi Arabia would provide $100 million in humanitarian aid to Sudan. The battles that have taken place in recent weeks have killed hundreds and forced 100,000 refugees to flee to nearby countries.

Manahil Salah, a 28-year-old laboratory doctor who was on an evacuation flight from Port Sudan to the United Arab Emirates, shared that her family had to hide for three days in their home close to the army headquarters in the capital before traveling to the Red Sea Coast.

Many people are trying to leave Port Sudan by boat for Saudi Arabia, paying for expensive commercial flights through the countrys only functioning airport, or using evacuation flights.

While mediators are trying to negotiate a path to peace, both sides have made it clear that they are willing to discuss only a humanitarian truce, not a full-fledged end to the war.

The US and Saudi Arabia pushed for productive discussion to reach an agreement for a permanent cessation of hostilities.

The RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti), hoped that the talks would lead to secure passage for civilians, but he also vowed either to capture or kill army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.

The conflict started on April 15 after an internationally backed plan for a democratic transition failed. Burhan, a career army officer, heads the ruling council, while Hemedti, who made his name in the Darfur conflict, serves as his deputy.

The extensive use of explosive ordnance throughout the fighting has endangered civilians, especially children who mistake munitions for toys, UN Mine Action Service warns.

Western powers have lent their support to the transition to a civilian government in Sudan, a country that holds a strategic position between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and the volatile Sahel region.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met with Saudi leaders over the weekend.
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Death of Ali Hussein Jaloud Highlights Harm of Fossil Fuels

( Human Rights Watch)  Ali Hussein Jaloud, an Iraqi man barely in his 20s, died April 21 of leukemia, a disease Ali and his family attributed to the pollution from the oil production and constant gas flares that surround their community in the southern Iraqi town of Rumaila, about 50 kilometers from the port city of Basra.

Many of us around the world felt we knew Ali and suffered his death personally, having followed his story in BBC and Unearthed investigations of the human and environmental toll of fossil fuel operations in Iraq, focusing on the devastation caused by flaring.

Flaring occurs when fossil fuel companies burn off excess methane gas from oil operations rather than capturing the gas in pipelines. When burned, the powerful greenhouse gas  more than 80 times more potent at global warming than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period  is released into the atmosphere. After Russia, Iraq accounts for the most flared gas in the world.

Article continues after bonus IC video

Life and death surrounded by gas flares in Iraq  BBC News

Flaring also releases toxic pollutants known to harm human health, including benzene, a human carcinogen that can cause leukemia. An Iraq Health Ministry report leaked to the BBC attributed pollution from the oil industry, among other sources, as the cause of a 20 percent rise in cancer in Basra between 2015 and 2018, and revealed cancer cases in the region to be three times higher than publicly disclosed figures.

Iraqi government officials have acknowledged a link between the oil pollution from flaring and cancer. Iraqs former environment minister, Jassem al-Falahi, told the BBC that pollution from oil production is the main reason for increases in cancer rates in Basra. Similarly, Luay Al-Khateeb, Iraqs former oil minister, told Unearthed that unregulated oil operations in southern Iraq and poisonous gases being flared in the air are the link to rising cancer rates.

Flaring is a global crisis with clear solutions. The Iraqi government should start by moving beyond simply acknowledging the problem to enacting and enforcing tight regulations to restrict flaring, providing proper health services to impacted communities, and making polluters compensate those who have suffered, as required by Iraqi law. To address the full harm to local communities and the global climate, the government should transition away from fossil fuels.

Alis was a tragic yet predictable death. I hope in the future that these companies go away, Ali says in the film. That the emissions stop, so children can live in peace.

Via Human Rights Watch
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By James Sunderland, University of Oxford | 

The death in custody on May 2 of Khader Adnan, the first Palestinian to die of a hunger strike for more than 30 years, sparked mass protests in Gaza and an exchange of fire between Israel and armed Palestinian groups. It was later announced that a ceasefire had been agreed, but the situation remains febrile.

Its another headache for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Hes already struggling to hold together his fractious coalition in the face of mass protests over his governments plans to overhaul the countrys judiciary to make it effectively subordinate to the Knesset, or parliament. Netanyahu was forced to shelve the plan in April after four months of street protests in Israels cities.

But there is also significant support on the right  both within Netanyahus coalition and on the streets. On April 28 an estimated 200,000 pro-overhaul protesters gathered in Jerusalem for a mass rally ahead of the reopening of the Knesset after Passover.

They were addressed by figures including the justice minister, Yariv Levin, who said the government remained committed to the planned overhaul. He also attacked opposition parties for refusing to compromise over the legislation as part of a mediation process being led by Israels president, Isaac Herzog.

Netanyahus promise in April to seek a compromise plan has been met with scepticism by many opposition figures and ordinary Israelis. This is at least partly due to promises from government ministers to plough on with the measures one way or another and their hostile rhetoric against the supreme court and the millions of Israelis who want to prevent the reform.

On April 15, the number two at the justice ministry, David Amsalem, called for an investigation into the protests and for the current supreme court president, Esther Hayut, to be charged with an attempted coup.

Article continues after bonus IC video

Reuters: Thousands protest Israeli judicial overhaul

Tens of thousands took to the streets again last weekend, the 17th consecutive week that Israelis have turned out for mass demonstrations against what many see as a plan that would undermine Israeli democracy.

Challenges on multiple fronts

Meanwhile, clashes between Muslims and Israeli police during Passover and Ramadan led to heightened tensions with the Palestinians and neighbouring Arab states. After Israeli Defence Force troops twice stormed al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, arresting hundreds of worshippers and injuring several, it drew an immediate response from what are believed to be Hamas members based in Lebanon.

A barrage of 34 rockets was launched into Israel over the following weekend, but were mainly intercepted by Israels Iron Dome defence system.

Warming relations with the Gulf states, meanwhile, have also turned progressively chillier in recent months due to inflammatory language regarding Palestinians from far-right coalition members and heightened settler violence in the West Bank.

These are dangerous times for Israel as it marks the 75th anniversary of its statehood. Israeli society is fractured  and external enemies of Israel know this. But so too does Netanyahu.

He is an inveterate political survivor, who understands that the current situation is untenable. The decision to prevent Jewish worshipers from entering the Temple Mount, where Al Aqsa is located, until the end of Ramadan seems to have been designed to de-escalate tensions.

Meanwhile, after firing his defence minister, Yoav Gallant, for speaking out against the overhaul, Netanyahu has awkwardly rescinded that decision  another sign of how serious the situation has become. But given the language being used by various hard-right government ministers and the violence they are whipping up, its unclear how long any relative calm can last.

The path ahead

Facing unfavourable conditions at home and abroad, Netanyahu will probably attempt to focus on preparing and passing the budget in the coming weeks. This, he may hope, will distract hardliners in his coalition from the judicial reform and secure some political breathing space.

Yet its far from certain that many ministers will be so easily diverted. Even as Israeli society tears itself apart and investors pull their money from the country in response to the proposed overhaul, many members of the government remain ideologically committed to neutering the courts  no matter the cost.

This could unleash more trouble. Many protesters feel Netanyahu, a man renowned for stabbing even his allies in the back, cannot be trusted. Even if he attempts to defuse the situation, the attitude of many of Netanyahus ministers is likely to make many people even more sceptical of his real intentions. Protesters are unlikely to disappear from Israeli streets any time soon.

Netanyahu, meanwhile, has already shown he is willing to bend to the demands of the far-right in order to keep them behind him  though cracks in the relationship are beginning to show with several members of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party threatening to resign.

Lost in much of the coverage in the west as Netanyahu announced his plans to pause the judicial overhaul, was the price the security minister Itamar Ben Gvir  a convicted supporter of a Jewish terrorist organisation  managed to elicit from the premier in return for support for the legislative pause: an armed national guard under his command.

The force has not come into being yet. But despite Netanyahu efforts to water down the forces powers and Ben Gvirs grip on the organisation, the decision to hand the extremist minister such a force demonstrates the hold hardline and far-right ministers have over this government.

All signs point to continued chaos as ministers continue to call to push through the deeply divisive overhaul legislation and the far-right continues to profit from its intransigence. Ben Gvirs national guard could further ignite tensions with the Palestinians and by extension armed Islamic groups in the Middle East. Although Passover provided a welcome break in Israels political drama, more unrest is on the cards.

James Sunderland, DPhil in Global History, University of Oxford

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The women had to be evacuated from Nelson Mandela Bay's specialist maternity unit at Dora Nginza Hospital as medical teams battled severe overcrowding and rolling blackouts.

Twenty-nine pregnant women who were sleeping on the floor at Dora Nginza Hospital in Nelson Mandela Bay and were not given any food had to be evacuated to other hospitals on Friday after the maternity unit became overwhelmed with the number of patients seeking medical assistance.

The unit, which delivers more than 8,000 babies a year, has only 75 beds. There have been desperate pleas from medical teams for more beds and more staff.

The Eastern Cape Department of Health spokesperson, Yonela Dekeda, said the 29 patients were transferred to Uitenhage Provincial Hospital and Port Elizabeth Provincial Hospital. She said clinical teams at the two hospitals would be supported by specialists from Dora Nginza Hospital.

"Following a similar situation late last year, the department identified and allocated budgets for staffing and equipment to activate an additional 30-bedded maternity ward and theatre to ease the pressure in a sustainable way. Despite all those efforts, demand for maternity services in the Bay continues to increase.

"The department is continuing with our efforts to create additional trauma and maternity services at sites like Empilweni Hospital and PE Provincial Hospital," she said.

She did not respond to information from clinicians that the absence of...
SURREY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSXV:GUG)(OTC PINK:ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that drilling will start this week at the Company's Lappvattnet high-grade nickel project in northern Sweden. Drilling will continue to focus on upgrading and potentially expanding the Lappvattnet nickel deposit, specifically targeting: (a) the eastern, shallow down-plunge extension of the main nickel zone; (b) additional, thickened high-grade nickel shoots within the eastern half of the existing inferred resource; and (c) grade and continuity of the newly discovered footwall zone.

"Drilling at Lappvattnet continues to deliver high-grade nickel sulphides with possibly some of the highest-grade nickel drill intersections recorded in Sweden. We had an 80% hit-rate with our drilling in 2021 and 2022 which returned numerous, impressive near-surface nickel intersections including twelve holes with individual assays greater than 5% Ni with a peak assay of 7.38% Ni. We plan to build on these successes moving forward," commented Jari Paakki, CEO.

Highlight drill results from 2021/22:

10.4 m @ 1.51% Ni including 4.25 m @ 3.19% Ni (ddh LAP21-02, from 45 m)

(ddh LAP21-02, from 45 m) 14.0 m @ 1.40% Ni including 5.65 m @ 2.62% Ni (ddh LAP21-05, from 60 m)

(ddh LAP21-05, from 60 m) 10.0 m @ 1.74% Ni (ddh LAP21-13, from 21 m)

36.0 m @ 0.93% Ni (ddh LAP21-04, from 49 m)

9.0 m @ 2.35% Ni including 5.66 m @ 3.02% Ni (ddh LAP22-19, from 66 m)

(ddh LAP22-19, from 66 m) 18.28 m @ 1.49% Ni including 5.76 m @ 4.04% Ni (ddh LAP22-25, from 58 m)

In 2022, the Company drilled 30 holes for a total of 4,240 metres and 15 holes for 1,300 metres in 2021. The 45 holes were drilled in the western half of the property covering a strike length of 450 metres with nickel intercept points (main nickel zone) to a vertical depth of about 100 metres.

The current two-year drill permit at Lappvattnet is valid to the end of this year with further drilling possible with a new work plan submission. The total amount of drill metres in 2023 will be based on continuing positive results and access to planned drill sites. Heavier than normal snowfall this winter and subsequent melt may result in prolonged wet conditions in the eastern parts of the planned drill area. The Company is actively monitoring spring thaw and ground conditions.

Please refer to Gungnir's nickel projects slide deck on the Company's website for maps, drill core photos, assay results tables and 3D modelling snap shots (link below): Click Here

Gungnir's nickel resources in Sweden currently total 177 million pounds (80.5 million kg) of nickel:

Lappvattnet: Inferred Resource of 780,000 tonnes grading 1.35% nickel for 23.1 million lbs (10.5 million kg) of nickel.

Rormyrberget: Inferred Resource of 36,800,000 tonnes grading 0.19% nickel for 154 million lbs (70 million kg) of nickel.

The NI 43-101 Technical Report entitled "TECHNICAL REPORT on the LAPPVATTNET and RORMYRBERGET DEPOSITS, NORTHERN SWEDEN" was prepared by Reddick Consulting Inc. Qualified Persons are John Reddick, M.Sc., P.Geo., and Thomas Lindholm, M.Sc., Fellow AusIMM. The Effective Date is November 17, 2020.

All lengths noted above are core length; true width has not been determined. 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: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jari Paakki, CEO

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Chris Robbins, CFO

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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: drilling at Lappvattnet has delivered possibly some of the highest-grade nickel intersections recorded in Sweden, which is based on readily available information and current knowledge of nickel projects in Sweden; planned drilling and expected targets; expectations of future resource upgrades and that new drilling and assays will be incorporated into any resource upgrade or expansion; extent of drilling and quantity of drilling holes; planned exploration program including anticipated drilling and the timing thereof; and Gungnir's plan for development of its properties and the timing thereof.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by Gungnir, including, without limitation: expectations of 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.
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Canadian Critical Minerals Inc. (TSXV: CCMI) (OTCQB: RIINF) ("CCMI" or the "Company") announces a financing by way of strategic investment by Glenpani Group Limited ("Glenpani" or the "Group") and its associated investment companies for proceeds of $250,000, comprising 5,000,000 Units at an issue price of $0.05 per Unit. Each Unit is comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant, which warrant shall be comprised of: (i) one-half of one warrant (1/2), with a full warrant exercisable into one common share (a "Warrant Share") at an exercise price of $0.075 for a period of two years, and (ii) one-half of one warrant, with a full warrant exercisable into one Warrant Share at an exercise price of $0.10 for a period of two years. The Company may issue additional Units for total gross proceeds of up to $500,000 (the "Private Placement").

Glenpani is a global venture capital conglomerate headquartered in the heart of the City of London, UK. The Group is focused on the evaluation and augmentation of a number of asset classes, including distressed asset opportunities, private transactions, investment origination, and asset management. Glenpani serves as the cornerstone investor to its transactions, the introduction and syndication of capital raising activities, as well as providing corporate services to companies with public listings on internationally recognised investment exchanges.

The primary sectoral focus of the Group's activity has been in identifying opportunities in the junior mining and development sector, and in 2022, Glenpani's investment arm generated a return in the junior mining and development industry in excess of 10,000%.

Glenpani maintains an extensive international network of corporate financiers, brokers, investment bankers, merchant banks, UHNWI's, project financiers, asset banks, and technical consultants.

Mr. Burns Singh Tennent-Bhohi, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Glenpani Group Ltd. commented, "I am delighted to announce our commitment to supporting what I believe to be one of the most compelling yet misunderstood Canadian opportunities in the junior development industry.

I commend the tireless work and commitment of Ian Berzins, and the CCMI team to progress such assets during what have been challenging capital markets for such opportunities that require sustaining capital, and believe that the Bull River and Thierry projects offer unique optionality for capital markets participants in generating exposure to both, arguably, the most important stage of the value chain; mining activity, revenue and the greater socio-economic benefits that come as a result and the most exciting stage of the value chain; substantially unrealized geological potential and the opportunity for resource expansion.

I believe that with what we are seeing globally in capital reallocation, security of supply and one of the most aggressive energy transitions of the last century, that unconventional capital investment and participation is going to dramatically change the landscape for companies operating in the junior development sector and more so for ones that have de-risked and reduced the cost of entry, such as CCMI has."

Ian Berzins, President and CEO of CCMI commented, "We are extremely pleased to secure this strategic investment from Glenpani and its associated investment companies. We share a belief with Mr. Tennent-Bhohi that CCMI's assets are significantly undervalued, and we look forward to progressing this relationship."

The Closing of the Private Placement is expected to occur in the next week. Closing of the Private Placement is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued under the Private Placement are subject to a statutory hold period that expires four months and one day from the closing of the Private Placement.

Proceeds from the financing will be used for exploration and development activities at the Bull River Mine project near Cranbrook, BC and the Thierry Mine Project near Pickle Lake, ON.

About Canadian Critical Minerals Inc.

CCMI is a mining company primarily focused on two near-term copper production assets in Canada. CCMI's main asset is the 100% owned Bull River Mine project (>135 million lbs of copper) near Cranbrook, British Columbia which has a Mineral Resource containing copper, gold and silver. CCMI's latest acquisition is the 100% owned Thierry Mine project (>1.3 billion lbs of copper) near Pickle Lake, Ontario which has a Mineral Resource containing copper, nickel, silver, palladium, platinum and gold.

Contact Information

Canadian Critical Minerals Inc.

Ian Berzins

President & Chief Executive Officer

M: +1-403-512-8202

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.canadiancriticalmineralsinc.com

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain information that may constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the closing of the Private Placement, statements about strategic plans, future work programs and objectives and expected results from such work programs. Forward-looking information necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, risks associated with general economic conditions; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; and other risks.

Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information and the risks identified in the Company's continuous disclosure record. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking information contained in this news release is given as of the date hereof and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as at the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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 new release.
Helmi  Gold mineralization confirmed at depth

Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend  Further gold mineralized intervals

Drilling on 100%-owned property commenced

ST. JOHN'S, NL, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Aurion Resources Ltd. (TSXV: AU) (OTCQX: AIRRF) ("Aurion" or the "Company") reports results for 6 holes from the winter 2022/23 drilling program on the Aurion-B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO) ("B2Gold") Joint Venture ("JV"), operated by B2Gold, in the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt in northern Finland.

Summary

Helmi - Gold mineralization confirmed at depth 1.07 g/t Au over 57.30 m from 360.80 m , 9.72 g/t Au over 1.35 m from 333.25 m , 6.26 g/t Au over 0.55 m from 355.70 m , and 12.15 g/t Au over 0.40 m from 577.70 m (IKK22043)

Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend  Further gold mineralized intervals 2.02 g/t Au over 0.70 m from 210.00 m , 1.36 g/t Au over 1.45 m from 213.40 m , 1.39 g/t Au over 1.75 m from 219.40 m , 2.61 g/t Au over 1.40 m from 228.80 m and 1.25 g/t Au over 2.30 m from 237.90 m (KUE22035) 250 m step-out along strike from the recent intersect of 6.25 g/t Au over 6.00 m and 0.26 g/t Au and 1.07% Cu over 12.80 m (press release February 6, 2023 ).

Drilling on 100%-owned property commenced Drilling ongoing at the Kaaresselka Prospect, Risti property, that returned 2 . 41 g/t Au over 56.55 m (press release dated February 21, 2023 )



Comments

"The gold intersects at greater depths at Helmi and the identification of further gold mineralized zones along the Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend expand the mineralized footprint, provide further support to the geological understanding and enhance the discovery potential along the over 8 km long prospective structural corridor," commented Aurion's CEO, Matti Talikka. "We are looking forward to receiving further results from the recently completed 2022/2023 winter drilling program."

Figures associated with this release can be found at the following link: Click Here.

Winter 2022/2023 drill program

A total of over 8,000 m of diamond core drilling has been completed during the winter 2022/2023 drill campaign. The program was designed to test potential extensions at the Helmi Discovery, several scout drill targets along the Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend and selected regional targets within the 347 km2 property.

This press release contains results for 1 hole (606.20 m) at Helmi and 5 scout holes (829.50 m) along the Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend.

Helmi and Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend

At Helmi, drill hole IKK22043 intersected 1.07 g/t Au over 57.30 m from 360.80 m and is a scissor hole to IKK22038 that returned 0.82 g/t Au over 108.10 m from 286.30 m. IKK22043 confirmed the depth extensions and provided further information on the geometry of one the main mineralized lenses.

Along the Helmi-Kutuvuoma Trend, drill hole KUE22035, 2.6 km to the west of Helmi, returned multiple intervals of gold mineralization including 2.02 g/t Au over 0.70 m from 210.00 m, 1.36 g/t Au over 1.45 m from 213.40 m, 1.39 g/t Au over 1.75 m from 219.40 m, 2.61 g/t Au over 1.40 m from 228.80 m and 1.25 g/t Au over 2.30 m from 237.90 m.

KUE22035 is located 250 m along strike from hole KUE22028 that intersected 6.25 g/t Au over 6.00 m from 222.60 m and 0.26 g/t Au and 1.07% Cu over 12.80 m from 162.90 m (press release February 6, 2023). Other widely spaced holes that tested geochemical and geophysical targets did not intersect significant gold mineralization or failed to reach the target depths.

The Helmi Discovery is located approximately 1.3 km west of Rupert Resources' 4.56 Moz Ikkari Deposit. The Helmi area covers approximately 2 km strike length of the 8 km long sequence of prospective geology along a domain boundary in the eastern part of the JV property extending from the Ikkari Deposit to the Kutuvuoma Prospect.

The Helmi Discovery was made during the second half of 2021 and drilling has returned a number of significant intercepts including 2.05 g/t Au over 77.50 m, 1.84 g/t Au over 52.40 m, 2.44 g/t Au over 43.45 m, 0.82 g/t Au over 108.10 m, 1.73 g/t Au over 44.95 m, 1.42 g/t Au over 30.70 m, 1.42 g/t Au over 30.60 m, 1.46 g/t Au over 39.00 m, 1.46 g/t Au over 28.70 m , 1.45 g/t Au over 35.50 m, 1.11 g/t Au over 45.80 m and 2.05 g/t Au over 18.30 m. The main mineralized system at Helmi extends over 1 km strike length along the prospective structural corridor and remains open along strike and at depth.

Mineralization at Helmi is mainly hosted by strongly deformed and biotite-chlorite+/-magnetite-altered, quartz-carbonate-magnetite veined ultramafic rocks and mafic tuffs with fine grained veinlet and disseminated pyrite. Gold mineralization has also been encountered in sedimentary rocks across the domain boundary.

Table 1: Aurion-B2Gold JV Helmi  Kutuvuoma Drilling Result Summary

Aurion-B2Gold JV Helmi - Kutuvuoma Trend Drilling Result Summary Hole ID Azimuth Dip From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au (g/t) Target Area / Notes IKK22043 339.5 -60.0 279.10 280.25 1.15 1.35 Helmi and 333.25 334.60 1.35 9.72 and 355.70 356.25 0.55 6.26 and 360.80 418.10 57.30 1.07 and 577.70 578.10 0.40 12.15 KUE22035 339.5 -55.0 210.00 210.70 0.70 2.02 Scout and 213.40 214.85 1.45 1.36 and 219.40 221.15 1.75 1.39 and 228.80 230.20 1.40 2.61 and 237.90 240.20 2.30 1.25 KUE22036 339.5 -50.0 NSV Scout KUE22037 339.5 -50.0 (no samples) Scout (abandoned) KUE22038 339.5 -50.0 NSV Scout KUE22039 29.5 -50.0 NSV Scout All widths are core widths. True width is not known at this time. All assay values are uncut. NSV - no significant values



Drill hole IKK22043 was collared in the west-central part of Helmi, 350 m to the south from IKK22038 (0.82 g/t Au over 108.10 m) and was drilled from south to north as a scissor hole to test the dimensions of mineralization in IKK22038. IKK22043 intersected the targeted ultramafic hosted mineralization, returning an interval of 1.07 g/t Au over 57.30 m from 360.80 m. Mineralization was also intersected in the overlying Kumpu sediments returning numerous anomalous gold (0.1 g/t) values including highs of 1.35 g/t Au over 1.15 m from 279.10 m, 9.72 g/t Au over 1.35 m from 333.25 m and 6.26 g/t Au over 0.55 m from 355.70 m. An interval of 12.15 g/t Au over 0.40 m from 577.70 m was returned from a siltstone hosted quartz vein at the gabbro contact.

Drill hole KUE22035 was collared along the structural corridor 2,600 m to the west of Helmi and was drilled from south to north. The hole was drilled along a stratigraphic fence with holes KUE22032 and KUE22034 and 250 m west of KUE22028 (6.25 g/t Au over 6.00 m from 222.60 m and 0.26 g/t Au and 1.07% Cu over 12.80 m from 162.90 m) to further test prospective volcanic packages and refine the contact with Kumpu sediments. KUE22035 intersected 2.02 g/t Au over 0.70 m from 210.00 m, 1.36 g/t Au over 1.45 m from 213.40 m, 1.39 g/t Au over 1.75 m from 219.40 m, 2.61 g/t Au over 1.40 m from 228.80 m and 1.25 g/t Au over 2.30 m from 237.90 m. The mineralization is hosted by siltstone and metasediments with pyrrhotite, pyrite and chalcopyrite mineralized veining.

Drill hole KUE22036 was collared along the structural corridor 4,100 m to the west of Helmi and was drilled from south to north to test a base of till anomaly in an interpreted zone of disruption. KUE22036 did not intersect significant mineralization.

Drill holes KUE22037 and KUE22038 were collared along the structural corridor 4,400 m to the west of Helmi and were drilled from south to north to test a base of till anomaly in an interpreted zone of disruption. KUE22037 was abandoned at 32.30 m, unsampled, and re-collared as KUE22038, 0.50 m to the northwest. KUE22038 intersected metasediments and gabbro with no significant mineralization.

Drill hole KUE22039 was collared 700 m southeast of the Kutuvuoma Prospect and was drilled to the northeast targeting the Helmi-Kutuvuoma trend. The hole was abandoned early at 163.70 m. KUE22039 intersected metasediments and gabbro lenses with a few samples returning anomalous gold (0.1 g/t) values.

Exploration plans for 2023

The planned JV budget for 2023 is CAN$10.4 million representing B2Gold's largest greenfield exploration budget outside western Africa. Aurion is fully financed to contribute its 30% share of the planned expenditure.

The exploration plans include a minimum of 10,500 m of diamond core drilling in various target areas including the Helmi Discovery, the Helmi-Kutuvuoma structural corridor as well as scout drill holes testing selected geochemical and geophysical targets elsewhere within the extensive (347 km2) JV property that covers tens of kilometers of the highly prospective major crustal scale structure, Sirkka Shear Zone. In addition, generative work including base of till sampling, top of bedrock sampling and geophysical surveys continue during 2023.

Background

The JV (30% Aurion/70% B2Gold) covers approximately 347 km2 along the major crustal scale Sirkka Shear Zone in the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt and includes a number of discoveries such as Helmi (2.05 g/t Au over 77.50 m), Kutuvuoma (16.47 g/t Au over 11.0 m), Soretiavuoma (48 g/t Au over 1.1 m), Sinerma (0.54 g/t Au over 40.2 m), Kiekeromaa (5.8 g/t Au over 5.0 m) and Kettukuusikko (4.33 g/t Au over 20.4 m). B2Gold is the operator of the JV.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

All samples were delivered to ALS preparation facility in Sodankyla, Finland where sample preparation work was completed. Analytical work for these samples was completed at ALS facilities in Loughrea, Co. Galway, Ireland and Rosia Montana, Romania. ALS is an internationally accredited lab and are ISO compliant (ISO 9001:2008, ISO/IEC 17025:2017). Samples were analyzed for gold using the Au-AA26 procedure (50 g fire assay with AAS finish: Lower Detection Limit ("LDL") 0.01 g/t gold; Upper Detection Limit ("UDL")  100 g/t gold). B2Gold has an internal QA/QC program involving the insertion of certified standards and blanks into the sample stream. ALS has its own QA/QC protocol using standards, blanks and duplicates.

This news release has been reviewed by Andrew Hussey, P.Geo., GIS Geologist and Database Manager for Aurion Resources, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. For more information on these projects please visit our website at www.aurionresources.com.

About Aurion Resources Ltd.

Aurion Resources Ltd. (Aurion) is a well-funded, Canadian exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V: AU) and the OTCQX Best Market (OTCQX: AIRRF). Aurion's strategy is to generate or acquire early-stage precious metals exploration opportunities and advance them through direct exploration by our experienced team or by business partnerships and joint venture arrangements. Aurion's current focus is exploring on its fully owned Risti and Launi projects, as well as advancing joint venture properties with B2Gold and Kinross in northern Finland.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Matti Talikka, CEO

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.
VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - GR Silver Mining Ltd. ("GR Silver Mining" or the "Company") (TSXV: GRSL) (OTCQB: GRSLF) (FRANKFURT: GPE)  today outlined its vision to continue resource growth on its wholly owned Plomosas Silver Project in Sinaloa, Mexico, through the remainder of 2023, including an update on exploration plans and corporate initiatives.

Highlights

A sound geological model with proven efficacy based on modern exploration has provided a foundation of growth for GR Silver Mining.

One of the Company's drill rigs has been mobilized to cost-effectively test the highly prospective target contact to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, aiming for further resource expansion while generating continued news flow.

Based on the recently filed National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report, a 12,500-metre drill program has been recommended pending board approval, largely in the San Marcial Area, stepping out along strike from the mineral resource eastern limit in the SE Area discovery, targeting incremental resource growth.

GR Silver owns 100% of the Plomosas Project with title and operating permits for core concessions granted under the previous mining law regime. We currently see no immediate impact from changes in Mexican mining legislation.

Cash management initiatives have commenced to reduce overhead and prioritize funds dedicated to exploration and drilling in Mexico .

Plomosas Silver Project update



On May 4, GR Silver Mining announced (News Release) the filing of the National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report (NI 43-101) for the wholly owned, 432 km2 Plomosas Silver Project in Sinaloa, Mexico. The full NI 43-101 dated May 3rd, 2023, with an effective date of March 15th, 2023, is entitled "Technical Report and Mineral Resource Update for the Plomosas Project". The report was prepared for GR Silver Mining by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo. of ARSENEAU Consulting Services Inc. The resource update resulted from the talent, experience, and hard work of our geological team as they made an important new discovery successfully applying modern exploration on this prospective district-scale project. A total of 75 GR Silver Mining drill holes (10,500 metres) were added to the 52 holes used in the previous resource estimate, totalling 122 holes (19,000 metres) for the San Marcial Area including the SE Area discovery. At the Plomosas Mine Area, a total of 223 drill holes (16,380 metres) were drilled in specific areas of the existing underground historical mine as part of the infill drilling program.

A total of 424 drill holes (60,020 metres) comprises the database supporting the new 3D geological modelling including the SE Area discovery and Resource Estimate. The total Indicated resource grew to 15 million tonnes averaging 117 g/t silver (Ag) for 55 million ounces Ag, or 179 g/t silver equivalent (Ag Eq) for 85 million ounces Ag Eq. The total Inferred resource grew to 9 million tonnes averaging 78 g/t Ag for 22 million ounces Ag, or 171 g/t Ag Eq for 49 million ounces Ag Eq. Relative to the previous resource estimates, Indicated Ag ounces grew 72% while Ag Eq ounces grew 83%. On an Inferred basis, Ag ounces grew 20% while Ag Eq ounces grew 48%. The Plomosas Project is distinct from many other projects in Mexico due to the existence of attractive mineralization at shallow depths with exceptional widths: true widths of the modelled domains average 20 metres at the Plomosas Mine Area and 22 metres at the San Marcial Area. In general, wide mineralized widths allied with shallow depth could indicate amenability to more mechanized mining methods and, consequently, potentially lower mining costs.

The district contains intermediate to low sulphidation epithermal silver and gold mineralization hosted in hydrothermal breccias and veins. The identification of high-grade precious metal bearing veins associated with younger, cross-cutting structures is an important evolution in the understanding of the controls on mineralization in the district. Recent success in exploration and drilling, with an associated increase in drill hit rate, has delineated wide, high-grade, shallow hydrothermal breccias in the San Marcial Area including the SE Area discovery. The Mineral Resource Estimate completed in the SE Area discovery zone covers only 300 m of a total 900 m known strike length (Figure 1), as defined by GR Silver Mining's 2022 exploratory program. There is surface evidence in the additional 600 m strike to the southeast, of potential silver mineralization at shallow depth hosted in wide hydrothermal breccias like those encountered in the SE Area discovery. The Company is also completing extensive detailed mapping and surface sampling in the vicinity of the SE Area discovery, including historical old workings, aiming to define new drilling targets (Figure 2).

The company currently owns 5 drill rigs, which can be cost-effectively deployed to continue drilling in the SE Area discovery and vicinity. The Company has already mobilized one drill rig to conduct initial step-out drilling on the prospective 600 m strike to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, based on attractive preliminary silver and base metal values from the 2023 surface exploration program in 2023 target area. Assays are pending from multiple holes.

In addition to the exploratory drilling along strike to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, the NI 43-101 recommends that GR Silver Mining continue to drill test the extensions of known mineralization at the San Marcial, Plomosas Mine, and San Juan-La Colorada areas, which remain open. A 12,500-metre program has been recommended pending board approval. It is primarily comprised of shallow drilling for resource expansion and exploration with key objectives as follows:

San Marcial Area, SE Extension 5,000 m of step-out drilling along strike to the southeast, outside of the Mineral Resource in the SE Area discovery zone. GR Silver Mining has identified anomalous silver mineralization in a setting along the target contact consistent with the demonstrably successful geological model.

San Marcial Area, Resource Extension and Infill Drilling 5,000 m of infill drilling aiming to upgrade resources from the Inferred category to the Indicated category.

Plomosas Mine Area, Incremental Infill Drilling 2,500 m of short underground drilling at the Plomosas Mine Area aiming to continue to increase the silver grades at the lower levels of the historic mine.

Early-Stage Exploration and Drill Target Generation The area to the south of San Marcial has received little exploration despite evidence of historical and artisanal mining activities. Advance the surface exploration program with geological mapping, lithogeochemical sampling in the target contact zone and around intrusive bodies known to be associated with positive geophysical anomalies. Lithogeochemical and geological mapping programs are time- and cost-effective means to efficiently test large unexplored areas of the Plomosas Project that aim to generate new targets for future exploratory drilling.



Over the next few months, it is management's goal to conduct several small, cost-effective technical studies to ascertain economic parameters in advance of a potential Preliminary Economic Assessment that may be initiated in the future. The Plomosas Project features several competitive advantages including road access, power direct to site, land ownership, 7.4 km of underground development in excellent condition, and existing mining permits and long-term ejido agreements. These features suggest the potential for lower costs, shorter timelines, and mitigated risks relative to comparable greenfields projects.

Legislative Changes in Mexico



The Mexican Senate has approved modifications to its mining law, which will likely receive final approval from authorities in the near term. The mining reforms will then be enacted in new policies and regulations, the exact impacts of which are not clear at this time. GR Silver Mining remains in an attractive position under the modified legislation in that it wholly owns concessions in the Rosario Mining District for which titles and operating permits are held. GR Silver Mining, since its foundation, has nurtured excellent relationships with in-country stakeholders, enjoying recent success in the granting of permits from Mexican authorities and securing long term agreements with neighbouring ejidos. GR Silver Mining's track record of local employment and the achievement of high health, safety, and environmental standards has placed it as a respected and well-established company in Sinaloa, Mexico. The Plomosas Project is at an advanced stage with historical mine operations, including permits and infrastructure for potential development of a modern mining operation. Nonetheless, these modifications to mining legislation require attention and the Company will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Cash Management



Over the past year, GR Silver Mining committed to the delivery of a resource update for the Plomosas Project by the end of March. The Company successfully delivered the resource update (see New Release, dated March 20, 2023) on time and exceeding the expectations published by covering analysts. Further, the resource estimate increment was delivered efficiently and cost-effectively at an attractive exploration cost of US$0.23/oz Ag Eq. Despite difficult markets, GR Silver Mining's management adhered to its commitment to delivering an important resource estimate update on time, requiring significant funding and commensurate dilution.

Despite its commitment to deliver the resource update, GR Silver Mining's management also embarked on a cost reduction program last year. The staff head count in Mexico has been reduced by 38% since the beginning of last year. The number of vehicles used in support of field activities has been reduced by 50% over the same period. Head office and overhead costs are being reduced with executives taking reduced cash salaries and directors waiving cash fees. There is a growing commitment to address the burden of mining concession fee arears over the year ahead while maximizing exploration expenditures as outlined above. The Company's non-core concessions of over 300 km2 (Figure 2) remain available for partnership or outright purchase and outreach has been made to encourage potential monetization. The recent $3.03 million non-brokered private placement that closed February 16 (see News Release) bought the Company the ability to deliver the promised resource and provided some flexibility in timing for further financing to meet our objectives for the remainder of 2023.

The Company has had several inquiries from independent parties interested in facilitating small-scale mining at the former Plomosas Mine at no cost to the Company, with the processing of mined material at third-party mills in the region. Given the state of the capital markets at present, the Company's board of directors has instructed management to explore this option based on minimizing risk regarding financial, technical, environmental, health and safety exposure. There are no guarantees that discussions with these parties, subject to negotiating acceptable terms and conditions, as well as the entering into of definitive documentation, will come to fruition.

About the Plomosas Project



The Plomosas Project, including the recent high-grade silver SE Area discovery in the San Marcial Area, is an emerging high-grade silver district located in southern Sinaloa, Mexico. The 43,187 ha Plomosas Project includes past-producing historical mining sites benefiting from previous mine infrastructure, road access and existing permits. The district contains intermediate to low sulphidation epithermal silver and gold mineralization hosted in hydrothermal breccias and veins. Recent success in exploration and drilling has delineated wide, high-grade, shallow hydrothermal breccias in the San Marcial Area, including the SE Area discovery, where initial drilling incorporated in the updated resource estimation for the Plomosas Project unveils an exploration opportunity for continuous resource growth.

QA/QC Procedures



The Company has implemented QA/QC procedures which include insertion of blank, duplicate and standard samples in all sample lots sent to SGS de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. laboratory facilities in Durango, Mexico, for sample preparation and assaying. For every sample with results above Ag >100 ppm (over limits), these samples are submitted directly by SGS de Mexico to SGS Canada Inc. at Burnaby, BC. The analytical methods are four acid Digest and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry with Lead Fusion Fire Assay with gravimetric finish for silver above over limits. For gold assays the analytical methods are Lead Fusion and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Lead Fusion Fire Assay and gravimetric finish for gold above over limits (>10 ppm).

Qualified Person



The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Marcio Fonseca, P. Geo., President & COO for GR Silver Mining, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

About GR Silver Mining Ltd.



GR Silver Mining is a Canadian-based, Mexico-focused junior mineral exploration company engaged in cost-effective silver-gold resource expansion on its 100%-owned assets, located on the eastern edge of the Rosario Mining District, in the southeast of Sinaloa State, Mexico. GR Silver Mining controls 100% of two past producer precious metal underground and open pit mines, within the expanded Plomosas Project, which includes the integrated San Marcial Area and La Trinidad acquisition. In conjunction with a portfolio of early to advanced stage exploration targets, the Company holds 734 km2 of concessions containing several structural corridors totaling over 75 km in strike length.

GR Silver Mining Ltd.

Eric Zaunscherb

Chair & CEO

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information



This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Sitka Gold Corp. ("Sitka" or the "Company") (CSE: SIG) (FSE: 1RF) (OTCQB: SITKF) is pleased to announce it has completed the winter phase of its 2023 diamond drill program at the Company's 376 square kilometre, road accessible RC Gold Project ("RC Gold" or the "Project") located in Yukon's prolific Tombstone Gold Belt ("TGB"), approximately 100 kilometres east of Dawson City. Three diamond drill holes (DDRCCC-23-041 to -043) totalling approximately 1500 metres were completed during this phase of drilling with multiple occurrences of visible gold observed in each drill hole (see Figures 4 - 6). Core samples for all three drill holes have been submitted to the lab for analysis and the Company is currently awaiting assay results.

News Release Highlights

Multiple occurrences of visible gold grains observed in all three drill holes

Significant quartz vein densities observed in all three drill holes

Confirmation that mineralization of the Blackjack gold deposit extends further to the east and to depth

"We are very encouraged by the visual observations of the drill holes completed during this initial phase of 2023 drilling at RC Gold," stated Cor Coe, P.Geo., CEO and Director of Sitka. "An early start to this year's diamond drilling at the Company's year-round, road accessible RC Gold Project has provided us with a nice jump on the 2023 summer field season with approximately 1500 metres of our planned 10,000 metre drilling program already completed this year. With visible gold and significant vein densities observed in every drill hole completed so far this year, we are eager to see what the assay results produce as we continue to systematically define this gold rich corridor. This corridor includes the recent discovery of two NI 43-101 compliant gold deposits situated 1.5 kilometres apart and totaling 1.34 million gold ounces, as announced earlier this year."

DDRCCC23-042 was drilled on a northeast azimuth with a -60 degree dip (Figures 1 and 2). The hole was designed to further test for an extension of high-grade material at depth below and to the west of drill holes DDRCCC-22-025 and DDRCCC-22-038 (see news releases dated June 13, 2022 & November 30, 2022). The hole was a step out 81 metres SSW from DDRCCC23-041, which had encountered significant densities of quartz sulphide veins and visible gold (see news release dated April 12, 2023). From surface to 464 m RCCC23-042 intersected moderately altered metasediments cut by metre scale megacrystic quartz monzonite (MQMZ) dykes. From 464 m to the end of the hole at 527.3 m the hole intersected dominantly MQMZ with metre scale inclusions of metasediments. Quartz-sulphide veins occurred throughout the hole, with the highest density noted from 280 m to 488 m. Multiple occurrences of visible gold with bismuthinite was noted in quartz veins within the core of the drill hole (see Figures 5 and 7).

DDRCCC23-043 was collared at the same location as DDRCCC21-021 (see news release dated December 13, 2021) and drilled at an azimuth of 005 degrees and a dip of -85 degrees (see Figures 1 and 3). The purpose of the hole was to fill in a gap of data in the current resource model and to extend the higher grade mineralization in the current resource to depth. The hole intersected dominantly MQMZ from surface to 111.25 m, metasediments intruded by metre scale MQMZ dykes to 318.45 m, dominantly MQMZ with metasediments to 382.1 m and then granite dykes with inclusions of MQMZ xenoliths to the end of the hole at 426.7 m. Quartz sulphide veins intersected all units with the highest intensity of veining occurring from 250 m to the end of the hole at 426.7 m. Visible gold was noted multiple times in quartz  bismuthinite veins. (see Figures 6 and 8).

About the RC Gold Project

The RC Gold Project (RC Gold) consists of a 376 square kilometre contiguous district-scale land package located in the newly road accessible Clear Creek, Big Creek, and Sprague Creek districts in the heart of Yukon's Tombstone Gold Belt. It is the largest consolidated land package strategically positioned mid-way between Victoria Gold's Eagle Gold Mine - Yukon's newest gold mine which reached commercial production in the summer of 2020 - and Sabre Gold Mine's Brewery Creek Gold Mine. The RC Gold Project land package comprises five underlying properties, namely, the RC, Bee Bop, Mahtin, Clear Creek, and Barney Ridge properties*.

On January 19, 2023 Sitka Gold announced an Initial Mineral Resource Estimate prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") guidelines for the RC Gold Property of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1). The road accessible, pit constrained Mineral Resource is classified as inferred and is contained in two near/on-surface zones: The Blackjack and Eiger deposits. The Mineral Resource estimate is presented in the following table at a base case cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au:

Table 1: RC Gold Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate

COG g/t

Au Blackjack Zone Eiger Zone Combined Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's 0.20 35,798 0.80 921 32,523 0.45 471 68,321 0.63 1,391 0.25 33,743 0.83 900 27,362 0.50 440 61,105 0.68 1,340 0.30 31,282 0.88 885 22,253 0.55 393 53,535 0.74 1,279 0.35 29,065 0.92 860 17,817 0.60 344 46,882 0.80 1,203 0.40 26,975 0.96 833 14,506 0.66 308 41,481 0.86 1,140

Notes 1. Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of January 19, 2023. Mineral Resources are classified using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards. 2. The cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au is believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit mining and processing 3. Mineral resources are constrained by an optimised pit shell using the following assumptions: US$1800/oz Au price; a 45 pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.00 per tonne; processing costs of US$8.00 per tonne; G&A of US$1.50/t. 4. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. 5. Totals may not sum due to rounding.

The Initial Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold at the RC Gold Project is comprised of two deposits: the Blackjack deposit containing 900,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.83 g/t gold and the Eiger deposit containing 440,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.50 g/t gold (see news release dated January 19, 2023). Both of these deposits are at/near surface, are potentially open pit minable and amenable to heap leaching, with initial bottle roll tests indicating that the gold is not refractory and has high gold recoveries of up to 94% with minimal NaCN consumption (see News Release July 13, 2022).

The Blackjack and Eiger deposits are in close proximity to highway and power infrastructure, are road accessible year-round, remain open in all directions and are respectively located at the western and eastern end of a large, 500 metre by 2 kilometre intrusion related gold system that was recently discovered on the Property. To date, just 41 diamond drill holes have been drilled into this system for a total of approximately 14,500 metres with results of up to 201.0 m of 1.26 g/t gold from surface, including 82.0 m of 2.04 g/t gold and 19.5 m of 4.87 g/t gold at Blackjack (drill hole DDRCCC-22-040; see news release dated January 11, 2023) and 354 m of 0.41 g/t gold including 72 m of 0.72 g/t gold at Eiger (drill hole DDRCCC-21-09; see news release date August 19, 2021). Assays are pending for the 3 diamond drill holes totaling approximately 1500 metres drilled during the winter of this year (2023).

Several high priority intrusion related gold targets exist at RC Gold with nine outcropped intrusions identified to date over the 376 sq km property, however Sitka's main focus at the RC Gold Project has been on the underlying Clear Creek Property where a large 500 metre by 2000 metre intrusion related gold system covering the area over the Blackjack, Saddle and Eiger zones was identified. Prior to the onset of the 2023 winter drilling program, the Company had drilled 38 diamond drill holes into this system for a total of approximately 13,000 metres. This drilling culminated in the discovery of the Blackjack and Eiger deposits with an initial inferred mineral resource estimate of 1,340,000 gold ounces(1).

Sitka Gold inherited a wealth of historical and current data from these properties from work spanning the last 40 years. Recent exploration work and the compilation of historical data have defined several mineralized zones with both bulk tonnage, intrusion-related gold deposit targets and high-grade, vein- and breccia-hosted gold targets. The RC Gold Project also has a common border with Victoria Gold's Clear Creek property at its western boundary and Florin Resources' Florin Gold property at its northern boundary.

(1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson

Mining District, Yukon Territory.

*For more detailed information on the underlying properties please visit our website at www.sitkagoldcorp.com.

Deposit Model

Exploration on the Property has mainly focused on identifying an intrusion-related gold system ("IRGS"). The property is part of the Tombstone Gold Belt which is the prominent host to IRGS deposits within the Tintina Gold Province in Yukon and Alaska. Notable deposits from the belt include: Fort Knox Mine in Alaska with current Proven and Probable Reserves of 230 million tonnes at 0.3 g/t Au (2.471 million ounces; Sims 2018)(1); Eagle Gold Mine with current Measured and Indicated Resources of 233 million tonnes at a grade of 0.57 g/t Au at the Eagle Main Zone (4.303 million ounces; Harvey et al, 2022)(2); the Brewery Creek deposit with current Indicated Mineral Resource of 22.2 million tonnes at a gold grade of 1.11 g/t (0.789 million ounces; Hulse et al. 2020)(3); the Florin Gold deposit, located adjacent to Sitka's RC Gold project, with a current Inferred Mineral Resource of 170.99 million tonnes grading 0.45 g/t (2.47 million ounces; Simpson 2021)(4) and the AurMac Project with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 207.0 million tonnes grading 0.60 gram per tonne gold (3.99 million ounces; Jutras 2022)(5).

(1) Sims J. Fort Knox Mine Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska, USA National Instrument 43-101 Technical

Report. June 11, 2018. https://s2.q4cdn.com/496390694/files/doc_downloads/2018/Fort-Knox-June-2018-

Technical-Report.pdf (2) Harvey N., Gray P., Winterton J., Jutras M., Levy M.,Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine, Yukon Territory,

Canada. Victoria Gold Corp. December 31, 2022.

https://vgcx.com/site/assets/files/6534/vgcx_-_2023_eagle_mine_technical_report_final.pdf (3) Hulse D, Emanuel C, Cook C. NI43-101 Technical Report on Mineral Resources. Gustavson Associates. May

31, 2020.

https://www.goldenpredator.com/_resources/Brewery-Creek_NI-43-101-05OCT2020-File.pdf (4) Simpson R. Florin Gold Project NI43-101 Technical Report. Geosim Services Inc. April 21, 2021.

https://sedar.com/GetFile.do?lang=EN&docClass=24&issuerNo=00005795&issuerType=03&projectNo=03236138&docI

d=4984158 (5) Banyan Gold News Release Dated May 17, 2022 (Technical Report to be filed within 45 days of news release) https://www.banyangold.com/news-releases/2022/banyan-announces-4-million-ounce-gold-mineral-resource-estimate-for-the-aurmac-property-yukon-canada/

About Sitka Gold Corp.

Sitka Gold Corp. is a well-funded mineral exploration company headquartered in Canada. The Company is managed by a team of experienced industry professionals and is focused on exploring for economically viable mineral deposits with its primary emphasis on gold, silver and copper mineral properties of merit. Sitka currently has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the RC, Barney Ridge, Clear Creek and OGI properties in the Yukon and the Burro Creek Gold property in Arizona. Sitka owns a 100% interest in its Alpha Gold property in Nevada, its Mahtin Gold property in the Yukon and its Coppermine River project in Nunavut.

Sitka recently announced a 43-101 compliant Initial Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1) beginning at surface and grading 0.68 g/t (see news release dated January 19, 2023). A resource expansion diamond drilling program is currently underway.

The Company is also planning additional drilling at its Alpha Gold Property in Nevada where a new Carlin-type gold system was recently discovered. The Company is focused on vectoring towards the high-grade core of this newly discovered system, which is located in the Cortez Trend just 40 km southeast of the Cortez Mine Complex of Barrick/Newmont, and plans for a 2023 drilling program at Alpha are currently underway.

(1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory.

Upcoming Events

Sitka Gold will be attending and/or presenting at the following events:

Dawson Gold Show , Dawson City , Yukon : May 19 - 20, 2023

, , : TakeStock Calgary Capital Event, Calgary, AB : July 5, 2023

: YMA Property Tours, Dawson City , Yukon : July 16-22, 2023

, : Precious Metals Summit, Beaver Creek, Colorado : September 12 - 15, 2023

All events are subject to change.

The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Cor Coe, P.Geo., Director and CEO of the Company, and a Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

SITKA GOLD CORP.

"Donald Penner"

President and Director

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and information are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "appear", "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "approximate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe", "would" and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, the expected timing and terms of the private placement, use of proceeds, anticipated work program, required approvals in connection with the work program and the ability to obtain such approvals. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, timelines and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws or the CSE. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Mistango River Resources Inc. (CSE: MIS) ("Mistango" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has agreed to purchase a 100% interest in 350 claim units over 7,447 hectares ('Goldie Expansion') that extend the Goldie Project over a total of 89 square kilometres along the Shebandwan Greenstone Trend.

The Goldie Expansion is contiguous to Mistango's existing Goldie Project and Delta Resources Limited's Delta 1 Project and straddles the Trans-Canada Highway.

Maps of Goldie Project in Shebandowan

"The recent success within the Shebandowan has resulted in a rush to acquire good properties along with the trend. As such Mistango is pleased to acquire such a large and prospective land package with the Goldie Expansion. Our understanding of geology within this emerging district is growing, and we look forward to our follow-up drilling and exploration program on Goldie, which is permitted and now funded with the closing of our recent financing," said Stephen Stewart, Mistango Chair.

About the Goldie Project

The structure of interest on the Goldie project is a shallow dipping flat laying zone close to the surface and drilled over a broad strike length with a mineralized corridor open in multiple directions. Goldie is within the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt, which also hosts Goldshore Resources Inc.'s low-grade, high-tonnage Moss Lake gold deposit, 50 km to the west. Goldie is also adjacent to Delta Resources Limited Delta 1 Gold Property.

The Goldie claims are located on the southern contact of the Timiskaming type Shebandowan Assemblage with the metavolcanics (felsic to ultrabasic) of the older Greenwater assemblage. The local geology consists of intercalated marine sediments (greywackes, arenites, and shales) cut by trachyte to trachyandesite low level dikes or sills. Previous exploration programs have referred to the trachytes as syenites. Gold mineralization is usually found in the volcanics associated with silicification, quartz veins or stringers and cubic pyrites. Associate alteration minerals are chlorite and ankerite as indicated by previous work.

Regional geophysics (GDS1037-REV) shows a series of parallel to sub-parallel magnetic lows. All the better values on the Goldie Property as well as on the Delta Property to the south of the Goldie Property, show the better gold values to be in the troughs of the magnetic lows. It's possible these lows indicate detachment structures, either faults (subduction) or folds (accretion) associated with the rotating contact between the Shebandowan assemblage to the north and the Greenwater assemblage to the south. The Magnetics and the Second Vertical Derivative show the same arcuate patterns, corresponding to the local topography.

Terms of the Acquisition



Mistango will issue 3 million shares, 1.5 million warrants exercisable at $.10 for period of two years, and $50,000 cash upon closing of the acquisition to arms length parties. The Goldie Expansion is royalty-free except for two claims, which have a 1% NSR with a right to buy back 3/4 thereof. The Goldie Expansion acquisition is conditional upon on CSE approval.

To learn more about Mistango, the Ore Group, and all things mining, please go to our YouTube Chanel: youtube.com/@theoregroup.

QP Statement

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jared Beebe, P.Geo. and geo., a Qualified Person as defined in "National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects." In addition, the vendor analyzed the mineralized intervals reported in this news release. Although all the certificates are available for the reported intersections, Mistango is only considering these results to indicate the presence of significant mineralization and will implement a comprehensive QAQC program in its sampling programs.

About Mistango River Resources Inc.

Mistango is a Canadian-based exploration and development company focused on its Kirkland Lake West and Omega projects in the Kirkland Lake District of Ontario's Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the symbol MIS.

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited holds an option to acquire up to a 75% interest in Mistango's Kirkland West and Omega projects (the "Projects") in exchange for spending $60 million on the Projects.

Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Mistango assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Mistango. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in filings by Mistango with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available under the Mistango profile at www.sedar.com.

For the latest updates, please contact or follow us on Twitter @mistango.

To Speak to the Company directly, please contact:

Stephen Stewart, Chief Executive Officer

Phone: 416.644.1567

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.mistango.com
MONTREAL, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Development Corp. (NYSE: ODV, TSXV: ODV) ("Osisko Development" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the signing of two landmark permitting agreements, the Process Charter and the Joint Information Requirements Table (the "IRT"), reaffirming the multilateral support of and commitment by the various levels of the Government of British Columbia ("BC") to advance the approval process of the Company's 100%-owned Cariboo Gold Project ("Cariboo" or the "Project") located in central BC, Canada.

Sean Roosen, Chairman and CEO, commented, "We are very pleased with the signing of these two unique agreements, which establish clear timelines for review and referral of Cariboo's permit applications, as well as set out a defined framework for information requests. They provide the Company with predictability and key mechanisms to successfully navigate the regulatory permitting process. The progress achieved to date continues to showcase our strong partnership with the Government of BC and demonstrates the commitment from all parties to advance Cariboo's permitting. We look forward to continuing our work efforts in close collaboration with all levels of Government, stakeholders, Indigenous partners and local communities."

The Process Charter , signed with the BC Major Mines Office (the " MMO "), establishes a workplan for cooperation between the Company, the MMO, the Ministry of Energy, the Mines and Low-Carbon Innovation (" EMLI ") and the Ministry of Environment (" ENV ") and commits all parties to a defined regulatory permitting process timeline as it relates to the Project. The target timelines established by the Process Charter, which are contingent on the issuance of the Environmental Assessment Certificate anticipated in Q3 2023, contemplate a final application referral date that is aligned with the Company's anticipated receipt of environmental permits in Q1 2024.

, signed with the BC Major Mines Office (the " "), establishes a workplan for cooperation between the Company, the MMO, the Ministry of Energy, the Mines and Low-Carbon Innovation (" ") and the Ministry of Environment (" ") and commits all parties to a defined regulatory permitting process timeline as it relates to the Project. The target timelines established by the Process Charter, which are contingent on the issuance of the Environmental Assessment Certificate anticipated in Q3 2023, contemplate a final application referral date that is aligned with the Company's anticipated receipt of environmental permits in Q1 2024. The Joint Information Requirements Table, signed with the EMLI and the ENV, outlines and serves as a single list of all agreed upon information requirements to support the Project's Mines Act and the Environmental Management Act permit applications, issued by EMLI and ENV, respectively. The unique IRT for Cariboo assists all parties in developing a robust permit application for submission, and may result in additional information requests, subject to the application review process.

Lhtako Dene Nation noted, "We truly believe that the mining industry and the Lhtako Dene Nation can work together as a team and continue to make our relationship stronger than yesterday. We are encouraged by Osisko Developments commitment to building a sustainable and environmentally innovative operation and look forward to continuing working together. The Project will not only provide the Nation and local communities with long-term employment, support and opportunity, but will also bring our Nation and local communities together."

The Company has also executed several project electrification initiatives in partnership with BC Hydro's CleanBC Industry Fund and the CleanBC Facilities Electrification Fund, which are important steps in supporting the Company's efforts in reducing the carbon footprint of the Project. One of the grants provides for up to a $2.5 million rebate to the Company upon completion of the Barlow substation connection, near Quesnel, BC.

About Osisko Development Corp.

Osisko Development Corp. is a premier North American gold development company focused on high-quality past-producing properties located in mining friendly jurisdictions with district scale potential. The Company's objective is to become an intermediate gold producer by advancing its 100%-owned Cariboo Gold Project, located in central B.C., Canada, the Tintic Project in the historic East Tintic mining district in Utah, U.S.A., and the San Antonio Gold Project in Sonora, Mexico. In addition to considerable brownfield exploration potential of these properties, that benefit from significant historical mining data, existing infrastructure and access to skilled labour, the Company's project pipeline is complemented by other prospective exploration properties. The Company's strategy is to develop attractive, long-life, socially and environmentally sustainable mining assets, while minimizing exposure to development risk and growing mineral resources.

For further information, please contact Osisko Development Corp.:

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained in this news release may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These forwardlooking statements, by their nature, require Osisko Development to make certain assumptions and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forwardlooking statements. Forwardlooking statements are not guarantees of performance. Words such as "may", "will", "would", "could", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "continue", or the negative or comparable terminology, as well as terms usually used in the future and the conditional, are intended to identify forwardlooking statements. Information contained in forwardlooking statements is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including the permitting, environmental and closure expectations (timing and if at all); steps required to obtain an Environmental Assessment Certificate (timing and if at all); expectations regarding multilateral support of and commitment by various levels of the Government of BC to advance the approval process of the Project; timing expectations for review and referral of Cariboo's permit applications; cooperation of stakeholders, community and partners; management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments; the utility and significance of historic data, including the significance of the district hosting past producing mines; future mining activities; the robust and production scale at Cariboo; the potential of high grade gold mineralization on Cariboo; the results (if any) of further exploration work to define and expand mineral resources; the ability of exploration work (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization; the ability to generate additional drill targets; the ability of management to understand the geology and potential of the Company's properties; the ability of the Company to expand mineral resources beyond current mineral resource estimates; the ability of the Company to complete its exploration objectives for its projects in 2023 in the timing contemplated (if at all); the ongoing advancement of the deposits on the Company's properties; the deposit remaining open for expansion at depth and down plunge; the ability to realize upon any mineralization in a manner that is economic; the Cariboo project design and ability and timing to complete infrastructure at Cariboo (if at all); the ability and timing for Cariboo to reach commercial production (if at all); the ability to adapt to changes in gold prices, estimates of costs, estimates of planned exploration and development expenditures; the ability of the Company to obtain further capital on reasonable terms; the profitability (if at all) of the Company's operations; the Company being a well-positioned gold development company in Canada, USA and Mexico; sustainability and environmental impacts of operations at the Company's properties; as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances, and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward looking information". Material assumptions also include, management's perceptions of historical trends, the ability of exploration (including drilling) to accurately predict mineralization, budget constraints and access to capital on terms acceptable to the Company, current conditions and expected future developments, results of further exploration work to define or expand any mineral resources, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Osisko Development considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Osisko Development, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect Osisko Development and its business. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks relating to capital market conditions and the Company's ability to access capital on terms acceptable to the Company for the contemplated exploration and development at the Company's properties; the ability to continue current operations and exploration; regulatory framework, First Nations and community support, and presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; the ability of exploration activities (including drill results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in management's geological modelling; the ability to expand operations or complete further exploration activities; the timing and ability of the Company to obtain required approvals and permits; the results of exploration activities; risks relating to exploration, development and mining activities; the global economic climate; metal and commodity prices; fluctuations in the currency markets; dilution; environmental risks; and community, non-governmental and governmental actions and the impact of stakeholder actions. Readers are urged to consult the disclosure provided under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022 as well as the Financial Statements and MD&A which have been filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the SEC's EDGAR website (www.sec.gov), for further information regarding the risks and other factors applicable to the exploration results. Although the Company's believes the expectations conveyed by the forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available as of the date hereof, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and there can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Newpath Resources Inc. (CSE: PATH) (FSE: 0MZ) (OTC Pink: RDYFF) ("Newpath" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Jerry Blackwell as a Strategic Advisor to the Company effective immediately.

Mr. Blackwell is a self-employed consultant based in Vancouver with extensive greenfields and brownfields exploration experience throughout Canada, Western United States, Mexico and Latin America, with short assignments in parts of Africa, Europe, Greenland, Australia and southeast Asia.

He has worked in the exploration industry for over 50 years, including 13 years with Cominco Ltd. working on uranium exploration in northern Canada, VMS exploration in Tasmania and B.C., SEDEX zinc exploration in the Yukon and southeastern B.C., and gold exploration in the coast ranges of northwestern B.C.

Capitalizing on years of rock hounding throughout the Grenville in both Ontario and Quebec, Mr. Blackwell identified and evaluated pegmatites throughout Canada and world-wide, as well as unconventional sources of lithium and boron, for a number of clients during the 1980's and up until 2012.

From 1988 to 1993, he was part of Prime Exploration's exploration team responsible for the discovery of the Eskay Creek Gold Deposit in B.C.'s golden triangle.

From 1993-2012 he served as President and CEO of Gitennes Exploration which focused on exploration in Canada and Peru. Gitennes successfully identified and acquired a number of opportunities, notably the Virgen (gold), Rio Blanco (copper), and Urumalqui (silver-gold) deposits in Peru.

Mr. Blackwell has many years of experience with listed companies in officer, director or advisory capacities for both Toronto and Venture-listed companies and continues as an ad-hoc advisor. A lifetime member of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), specializing in early-stage and pre-production projects, good-practice, disclosure, corporate governance, and is currently focused on new, evolving projects in the Americas. Although not currently a B.C. registered professional geoscientist, he brings to the role an education that was focused on ore deposits, and a management consulting background with over 50 years of mineral exploration related capacities in multiple countries. Mr. Blackwell currently serves in an advisory role with Chakana Copper Corp., Palamina Corp. and NewOrigin Gold Corp., all Venture-listed companies.

Jerry Blackwell, Strategic Advisor, states, "I'm pleased to be joining as a Strategic Advisor to Newpath Resources, which has a solid technical and management team, with a geographic and commodity focus, that presents an opportunity to work with a next-generation explorer."

Alex McAulay, CEO, states, "We are very excited to be welcoming Jerry on as a key strategic advisor to the Company as we initiate the first phase of exploration on our lithium projects. Jerry brings a broad range of practical knowledge and corporate experience to the table. Jerry is well connected in the exploration industry and combined with his experience and knowledge gained from evaluating pegmatites in Canada, he brings a specialized insight that will not only augment our in-house exploration capabilities, but also assist with new project identification and generation."

About Newpath Resources Inc.

Newpath Resources Inc. is a Canadian exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under symbol PATH. The Company wholly-owns the Northshore Gold Project located in the Schreiber-Hemlo Greenstone Belt and its early-stage Orefield Critical Metal Exploration Project, which is comprised of three claim groups (Alpha/Bravo, Charlie and Delta) totaling 3,140 claim units covering 66,597 Ha (approximately 666 square kilometres) west and southwest of Lake Nipigon in Northern Ontario.

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On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

NEWPATH RESOURCES INC.

"Alexander McAulay"

Chief Executive Officer

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CEO Direct Line: +1 (604) 365-0425

www.newpathresource.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - American Eagle Gold Corp. (TSXV: AE) (OTCQB: AMEGF) ("American Eagle" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Teck Resources Limited ("Teck") has agreed to make a strategic investment in the Company through a structured flow-through financing on a private placement basis.

The Company will issue 14,400,000 common shares on a flow-through basis (the "Shares") at a price of C$0.205 per Share for issue proceeds of approximately $2.96 million (the "Offering"). Teck will subsequently acquire the Shares for an aggregate purchase price of $1.87 million, or $0.13 per Share.

Highlights:

The Offering fully funds the American Eagle's 2023 drill program on NAK and provides the capital to advance its ongoing exploration activities at the NAK copper-gold porphyry project located (the "Nak Project"), near Smithers, BC

Drilling on American Eagle's NAK is expected to recommence in June

No warrants or finders fees were issued in connection with the Offering

"We are very pleased to welcome Teck, Canada's preeminent copper producer, as a strategic investor. This investment affirms the value our team sees in NAK and solidifies our drilling and exploration plans for 2023. NAK's 2022 drilling program discovered broad intercepts of bornite bearing copper-gold porphyry mineralization. 2023's objective is to continue advancing our property by expanding its known mineralized footprint and identifying the high-grade source of the copper and gold on NAK," said Anthony Moreau, CEO of American Eagle Gold.

American Eagle will use the proceeds of the Offering to fund its 6,000-metre drill program on a number of targets at the NAK Project. The objective of the drill program is to:

Follow up the 2022 drill program via east-west step-out drilling and begin to delineate the true size of this potential deposit

Expand and better define orientation and distribution of the higher-grade zones of dyke-hosted bornite mineralization

Expand the known footprint of the high-grade at-surface south gold zone

Step-out and investigate the highly prospective southern margin of the main Babine stock porphyry

Immediately following the closing of the Offering, Teck will hold 14,400,000 common shares of American Eagle, or approximately 15.0% of American Eagle's issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted basis. Teck currently holds no securities of American Eagle.

Teck's purchase of the Shares was made for investment purposes. Teck may determine to increase or decrease its investment in American Eagle depending on market conditions and any other relevant factors. This release is required to be issued under the early warning requirements of applicable securities laws. A copy of the early warning report may be obtained from the contacts listed below. Teck's head office is located at Suite 3300 - 550 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0B3. A copy of Teck's early warning report may be obtained from Chris Stannell at 604 699 4368.

No warrants are included in the Offering, and no finders fees or commissions were paid. Closing of the Offering is expected to occur on or before May 30, 2023 (the "Closing Date"), subject to negotiation and execution of definitive documentation with the initial purchasers of the Shares, as well as certain customary conditions, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals and acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange. The Shares will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus a day following the Closing Date.

An amount equal to the gross proceeds from the issuance of the Offering will be used to incur, on the Company's Canadian mineral exploration properties, eligible resource exploration expenses that will qualify as (i) "Canadian exploration expenses" (as defined in the Tax Act), (ii) "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures" (as defined in subsection 127(9) of the Tax Act) (collectively, the "Qualifying Expenditures"); and (iii) as a "BC flow-through mining expenditure" for purchasers in British Columbia. The Qualifying Expenditures in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the Offering will be incurred on or before December 31, 2024 and will be renounced by the Company to the initial purchasers of the Shares with an effective date no later than December 31, 2023. In the event that the Company is unable to renounce the issue price for the Shares on or prior to December 31, 2023 for each Share purchased and/or if the Qualifying Expenditures are reduced by the Canada Revenue Agency, the Company will as sole recourse for such failure to renounce, indemnify each initial purchaser for the additional taxes payable by such subscriber to the extent permitted by the Tax Act as a result of the Company's failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures as agreed.

In connection with the Offering and for so long as Teck's ownership in American Eagle remains greater than 5.0% of American Eagle's issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted basis, American Eagle has agreed to grant Teck certain investor rights, being an equity participation right to maintain its pro-rata ownership in the Company, certain information rights relating to the NAK project, and a price protection right. Pursuant to the price protection right, if within 90 days of the Closing Date, American Eagle issues common shares under certain transactions, at a price per common share that is less than Teck acquisition price (the "Lower Price"), Teck shall be entitled to receive from the Company (for no additional consideration) additional common shares in an amount such that, when added to the number of common shares purchased on the Closing Date, will equal the number of Common Shares that the aggregate price paid by Teck on the Closing Date would have purchased at the Lower Price, provided that in no event will Teck hold 20% or more of the shares of American Eagle.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. 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 the securities laws of any state of the United States, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements.

About American Eagle's NAK Project

NAK is a porphyry copper-gold target that exhibits many signs of a robust and large-scale system. Historical drilling, while shallow, defined a near-surface copper-gold system with a footprint greater than 1.5km x 1.5km. Drilling in 2022 showed that the property holds substantial deep potential but remains largely untested at depth, while near-surface mineralization potential was shown to be significantly larger than what was historically defined.

The NAK property is road accessible, and many target areas coincide with forest industry clear cuts. Drilling can be undertaken year-round, and no helicopter support is required. The NAK property is 85 kilometres from Smithers, BC, in the Babine copper-gold porphyry district of west-central British Columbia. It lies close to past-producing mines (Bell, Granisle), in proximity to excellent infrastructure. NAK's highly encouraging initial results make it a prime candidate for further exploration. The Company's main objective is to advance this newly revitalized prospect into a major discovery.

NAK's 2022 drill program was a renowned success, discovering broad intercepts of bornite bearing copper-gold porphyry mineralization. Each drill hole returned strongly anomalous mineralization from top to bottom of hole, with areas of high grade copper and gold present within many of the holes. 2023's objective is to continue advancing our property by expanding its known mineralized footprint and identifying the high-grade source of the copper and gold on NAK. Drilling is expected to commence in early June, 2023.

For the latest videos from American Eagle, Ore Group, and all things mining, subscribe to our YouTube Chanel: youtube.com/@theoregroup.

About American Eagle Gold Corp.

American Eagle is focused on exploring its NAK project in the Babine Copper-Gold Porphyry district of central British Columbia.

Anthony Moreau, Chief Executive Officer

Phone: 647.215.6959

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.americaneaglegold.ca

QP Statement

Mark Bradley, B.Sc., M.Sc., P.Geo., a Certified Professional Geologist and 'qualified person' for the purposes of Canada's National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Properties, has verified and approved the information contained in this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange policies) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information in this press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding whether the Company will be able to exercise its option to acquire the Project as anticipated and whether the Company's exploration efforts on the Project produce the results that are anticipated by management. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results might differ materially from those suggested in forward-looking statements. American Eagle Gold Corp. assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward looking-statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to American Eagle Gold Corp. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in filings by American Eagle Gold Corp. with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available under American Eagle Gold Corp. profile at www.sedar.com.
Vancouver, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. (Terra or the Company) (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1) is pleased to announce positive assay results from surface rock chip and soil sampling at its 80.4 km2 Ceovishte license in southern Serbia and closing of the 1st tranche of the previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of units (the Units) for gross proceeds of $404,650 (the Offering).

Highlights

Surface rock sample include concentrations as high as 53.5 g/t Au, 78.6 g/t Ag and 2.47 % Cu with up to 0.39% Co and 0.45% Bi (Table 1);





with up to (Table 1); > 900 m strike length of Au-Ag- As- Bi-Cu-Te anomalism in soil geochemistry defines new target, with soil assays returning up to 2.42 g /t Au (Figure 2);





(Figure 2); Mineralization is controlled by potassic altered diorites hosting quartz-chalcopyrite veins with secondar y copper mineralogy at surface (Figure 3) and a gold-bismuth-cobalt rich epithermal assemblage;





(Figure 3) and a gold-bismuth-cobalt rich epithermal assemblage; Drill-ready with both porphyry and epithermal mineralization visible at collar locations.

Terra Balcanica CEO, Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, commented: Detailed prospecting, rock chip and soil sampling at our Serbian Ceovishte licence not only confirmed the existence of a sizable hydrothermal system responsible for multi-ounce gold assays at surface near the Medjurecje locality but also defined a new, 900-m-wide, topographically depressed, semi-circular gold-silver-copper soil anomaly northeast of the high-grade Au zone that is characterized by potassic altered andesites interpreting by Terras technical team to represent a previously neglected porphyry target. This confirms the potential of our Serbian assets and represents a significant diversification of the Companys polymetallic portfolio already defined by our Viogor Zanik project. It sets the stage for drilling of the shallow high grade gold target later this year.

The Ceovishte license totals over 80 km2 of highly prospective land for gold and copper exploration in the historic Raska mining district of southern Serbia (Figure1). The license area drapes southern slopes of the Golija Mountain, a part of the well-known Kopaonik metallogenic zone. This area features the Kizevak and Sastavci Pb-Zn-Ag mines including the Karadak deposit, all owned by Adriatic Metals plc. The historical Yugoslav GKZ, non-NI 43-101 compliant resource estimates for Kizevak is 3.9 Mt of ore grading 3.92 % Zn, 2.15 % Pb and 31 g/t Ag categorized according to the Yugoslav A+B+C1 resource nomenclature (www.adriaticmetals-serbia.com/our-projects/adriatic-metals-serbia-sastavci). The Raska mining district also holds the Rudnica Cu-Au porphyry target and is a northerly extension of the partially exploited, world class Trepca Pb-Zn-Ag skarn deposit of the norther Serbian province of Kosovo. Trepca features a non-NI 43-101 compliant resource of 60.5 Mt of ore grading over 8.0 % Pb+Zn and >159 Moz of Ag.

Figure 1. Geological map of the Ceovishte license area in southern Serbia. The black rectangle labelled Figure 2 is Terras primary area of interest within the license. It encapsulates Au-Cu mineralized Neogene volcanic rocks which intruded an ultramafic country rock of the West Vardar Ophiolite. Previous operators conducted work in the south of the Ceovishte license and overlooked the Au-Cu potential of the north where Terra has conducted a successful soil and rock chip sampling campaign and is planning a maiden drilling program in early Q3 of 2023 (click here to view image).

Figure 2. Map displaying Au in soil (ppb), and anomalous Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te signature. Sampling verifies the location of known mineralization and reveals > 900 m strike length of new prospective ground open to the NE. Rock sample IDs can be correlated with results in Table 1. The drill target is labelled where rock chips return up to 53.5 g/t Au and 1.45 % Cu. Note the location of anomalous Au in soil forming an arcuate pattern around the depressed centre, interpreted as possible concentric fractures around a porphyry intrusive which crops out in the south and northwest. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N) (click here to view image).

Geology and Mineralization

The Company is focussed on exploring the overlooked Au-Ag-Cu (Bi-Co) occurrences in the northern extents of the license where Neogene intrusive rocks of intermediate composition are emplaced within ultramafic rocks of the west Vardar Ophiolite Belt. Field observations and microscopy confirms biotite-magnetite-k-feldspar potassic alteration within the diorites, which are observed controlling the distribution of mineralization and are thus inferred as the causative intrusion and target for further exploration. Intrusive contacts and vein-hosted sulphides in the south dip shallowly to the NNE below ultramafic cover into an annular topography low.

Both hypogene sulphide mineralization and supergene oxide zones are present at Ceovishte and returned very encouraging assay results of a well-endowed Au-Ag-Cu system. Quartz-chalcopyrite veins are partially oxidised at surface producing a mixture of malachite, azurite and tenorite (Figure 3) and occur within the same outcrops as quartz-arsenopyrite-bismuthinite veins. Chalcopyrite is also observed finely disseminated within the potassic altered intrusives. Gossans and vuggy silica host the highest Au values up to 53.5 g/t.

Figure 3. Macroscopically observed copper mineralization in samples 103281 and 103276 which returned 1.45 % and 2.47 % Cu, respectively. Mineralization is vein-hosted within potassic altered diorites and comprises quartz, chalcopyrite, malachite, azurite and tenorite (click here to view image).

Mineralized rock samples also return high bismuth and cobalt, which may have been stripped from the ultramafic country rocks by hydrothermal fluids and re-precipitated within the epithermal veins. Ceovishte therefore has characteristics of the 5-element vein (Ag-Bi-Co-Ni-As) style of mineralization.

Sample Easting Northing Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Bi (ppm) Cu (%) Co (ppm) 100851 476500 4815182 53.5 8.7 4490 0.03 12 100838 475554 4816186 0.19 78.6 2 0.01 71 100839 476417 4815188 11.0 10.1 3570 0.14 805 103273 476383 4815204 6.56 1.2 299 0.01 1300 103271 476335 4815157 0.48 1.8 20 0.12 21 103282 476479 4815173 10.95 0.82 299 0.02 3940 103264 476602 4815182 0.09 18.9 6 0.01 5.7 103267 475606 4816196 0.02 0.69 42 0.04 9 103262 475628 4816084 3.09 11.8 480 0.03 336 103269 475605 4816158 0.10 1.7 0.4 - 9 103276 476179 4815987 0.05 10.8 20 2.47 13 103279 476376 4815128 0.39 2.16 5 0.01 27 103280 476383 4815133 3.28 1.42 224 0.01 145 103277 476189 4815997 2.2 0.5 69 0.01 88 103281 476514 4815189 0.16 21.5 144 1.45 50

Table 1. Rock chip locations and assay results for key commodity elements. Samples can be seen with anomalous Au in soil Figure 1. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N).

Soil Geochemistry

Results from 386 B/C horizon soil samples successfully captured the signature of Au-Cu mineralization at Ceovishte. Two known occurrences were highlighted by the sampling, verifying the Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te grouping as representing mineralization, with a further 900 m strike length anomaly being generated for follow up in the north of the survey. The newly defined target area returned assays up to 2.42 g/t Au and 424 ppm Cu in soil. This area has not seen rock chip sampling and offers significant exploration upside for extending the footprint of known Au-Cu mineralization.

Elevated commodity and pathfinder elements in soil correlate to a K-Ba-Na element grouping, indicating sub cropping intermediate composition intrusives rather than the ultramafic country rock which has a strong Ni-Co-Cr-Mg signature. Soil anomalism generates an annular pattern which surrounds a central topographic depression with enclosing ridges of ultramafic rock. This correlation could indicate concentric and ring radial fractures, which have formed around a central porphyry intrusive and focussed hydrothermal fluid flow. Potassic altered, Au-Cu mineralized diorite intrusives have been observed and sampled at both the southern and northern extents of this annular feature, with over 900 m of untested strike length in the northeast.

Future Exploration Program

The norther Ceovishte licence is drill-ready with pad locations designed to test the depth extensions of the Au-Cu mineralization sampled on surface. Following positive results in maiden drilling geophysics will be considered to guide a larger phase II drilling program.

Follow up of the anomalous soil geochemistry will be undertaken in the northeast through geological/alteration mapping and rock chip assay. This will generate a pipeline of targets for drill testing. Further soil sampling will be completed in the northeast where the anomaly remains open to define its full spatial extent.

1st Tranche Private Placement Financing Closed

The Company issued an aggregate of 4,760,586 Units at a price of $0.085 per Unit for gross proceeds of $404,650 pursuant to the Offering announced on April 4th, 2023. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a Common Share) and one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.13 until May 5th, 2026.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for working capital and to fund the Phase II drilling across its portfolio of properties. Finders fees in the amount of $8,057 were paid.

Giulio Bonifacio, Chair of the board of directors, Steven Latimer, a director, and Kim Oishi, a director (the Insiders) purchased 1,194,117 Units as part of the Offering. The issuance of the Units to the Insiders constitutes a "related party transaction" as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Company is relying on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the securities do not represent more than 25% of the Companys market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by Insiders in the Offering was approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such transactions.

Pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws, all securities issued and issuable in connection with the closing of the Private Placement will be subject to a four (4) month hold period ending September 6th, 2023.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell 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 any U.S. person or any person in the United States, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. United States and U.S. Person are as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act.

QAQC

Representative rock samples were taken from surface outcrops and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia for sample preparation and subsequent wet chemical analysis at the Loughrea laboratory in Ireland, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certified test facility. Sample preparation PREP-31BY method involved crushing the core to a 70% fraction less than 2 mm in size, rotary split 1.0 kg and pulverizing the split to greater than 85% passing 75 microns. Silver and base metals were analysed by ICP MS after a four-acid digest (ME-MS61). Gold was assayed by 30g fire assay with ICP AES finish (Au-ICP21). Over limit samples for base metals were re-analysed by the four-acid digest ICP-AES analyses termed ME-OG62. Over-limit gold analysis was conducted by fire assay and gravimetric finish (Au-GRA21). Soil samples were taken in the B/C horizon and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia. Analysis was undertaken after dry screening to 180 microns by method AuME-TL44 an aqua regia digest followed by ICP analysis on a 50g sample. Over-assays were conducted by the OG-46 (base metals) and Au-AROR44 (gold) techniques.

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.
The celebration of the annual World Press Freedom Day by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) suffered a low turnout at the Monrovia City Hall on 1 May 2023.

Only a handful of people showed up to commemorate the occasion.

It is believed that the ongoing conflict within the PUL had caused the low turnout.

The union has been divided into two factions since it held a controversial electoral process that ended in a dispute in Gbarnga, Bong County last year.

The PUL's internal conflict has raised concerns about the state of press freedom in Liberia, where journalists have long faced harassment, threats, and violence.

The recent controversy over the PUL election has highlighted the ongoing struggle for media independence and the state of press freedom in Liberia.

As the global community reflects on the importance of a free press, Liberia's press union remains destabilized since its dispute began, with one side supporting Julius Kanuyba and the other supporting Daniel Nyankona.

The two men contested in the last PUL presidential election that took the union to court.

Days before the International Press Day celebration, Team Kanubah issued a press release welcoming the Supreme Court's hearing on the Daniel Nyakonah and Julius Kanubah controversy regarding the PUL election.

Through a Supreme Court Full Bench hearing, a lower court Judge Boima Kontoe has been ordered to lift the Stay Order placed on all PUL activities, including the induction of elected officers following the December 30, 2022 Conference.

Close Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox Top Headlines Liberia Media By submitting above, you agree to our privacy policy. Success! Almost finished... We need to confirm your email address. To complete the process, please follow the instructions in the email we just sent you. Error! Error! There was a problem processing your submission. Please try again later.

Team Kanubah Used the press release to call on Attorney-at-Law Patmillia Doe Paivey and the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding of Mr. Malcolm Joseph to stay clear of the World Press Freedom Day celebrations under the auspices of what he termed as "expired PUL leadership."

Despite this, Attorney-at-Law Patmillia Doe Paivey and the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding of Mr. Malcolm Joseph still participated in the event as keynote speakers.

Meanwhile, Team Nyankona did not respond to the release immediately, which may have contributed to the poor turnout at the International Press Freedom Day celebration.

Overall, the situation in Liberia highlights the ongoing struggle for media independence and safety, and the need for continued efforts to promote press freedom worldwide.
Trenching highlights include 146.8m at 2.05g/t PGM+Au, including 50.0m at 4.18g/t PGM+Au

Metallurgical drill core highlights include 110.0m at 2.23g/t PGM+Au, including 35.0m at 3.51g/t PGM+Au, 0.16% Ni

VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Bravo Mining Corp. (TSXV: BRVO) (OTCQX: BRVMF) ("Bravo" or the "Company") announced that it has received assay results from five trenches and four previously unsampled large diameter ("ZW") historical metallurgical drill holes, all located in the Southwest sector of its 100% owned Luanga palladium + platinum + rhodium + gold + nickel project ("Luanga" or "Luanga PGM+Au+Ni Project"), located in the Carajas Mineral Province, state of Para, Brazil.

"Initial trenching shows potential for increased thickness and supergene enrichment, warranting an expanded trenching program at Luanga", said Luis Azevedo, Chairman and CEO of Bravo. "In addition, the receipt of assay results from the large diameter metallurgical drill core that had not been sampled by the previous owner has provided valuable localized grade and geological information and, more importantly, tonnes of mineralized material, both oxide and fresh rock, that is immediately available for Phase 2 metallurgical program and/or later pilot scale test work."

Highlights Include:

Trenching trialed in the Southwest Sector successfully defined thicker zones of mineralization at surface in comparison to nearest neighbour drill holes below the trench, while assay results indicate grade enrichment in most cases.

Historical drill core received at site includes large diameter ZW metallurgical core (165mm) drilled in the Southwest Sector that had not been previously sampled. Assay results from channel sampling of this core are as good or better than nearby drill holes, supporting Bravo's interpretation of geology and mineralization. The core is now ready for use in the Phase 2 metallurgical program.

The combinations of trenching, assay results from the ZW metallurgical core re-sampling and re-logging have improved interpreted mineralization in these areas (see Figures 2a and 2b ).

TRENCH-ID From (m) To (m) Thickness

(m) Pd (g/t) Pt (g/t) Rh (g/t) Au (g/t) PGM + Au

(g/t) TYPE TRC22LU002 24.1 82.6 58.5 1.46 0.54 0.09 0.03 2.13 Ox TRC22LU003 20.6 167.4 146.8 1.36 0.59 0.07 0.03 2.05 Ox Including 41.3 91.3 50.0 2.90 1.06 0.15 0.06 4.18 Ox TRC22LU004 0.0 81.1 81.1 0.98 0.42 0.05 0.04 1.48 Ox TRC22LU005 28.0 57.9 29.9 1.25 0.46 0.07 0.12 1.90 Ox TRC22LU006 0.0 39.3 39.3 1.10 0.42 0.08 0.11 1.70 Ox

Notes: All 'From', 'To' and 'Thickness' measurements are true measurements. Type: Ox = Oxide. The recovery of PGM+Au from saprolitic material is being tested as part of the ongoing metallurgical program.

HOLE-ID From (m) To (m) Thickness

(m) Pd (g/t) Pt (g/t) Rh (g/t) Au

(g/t) PGM + Au

(g/t) Ni** (%) Cu (%) TYPE *FM-0004 0.0 110.0 110.0 1.39 0.64 0.08 0.12 2.23 NA NA Ox/FR Including 68.7 103.7 35.0 2.25 1.01 0.15 0.11 3.51 0.16 0.02 FR *FM-0007 26.1 125.0 98.9 1.02 0.38 0.05 0.03 1.47 0.17 0.02 FR

Notes: All 'From', 'To' depths, and 'Thicknesses' are downhole. 'NA' Not applicable for Oxide material. * Prefix "PPT-LUAN- "and are historical ZW core. Given the orientation of the trenches at surface, the intercepts are estimated to be 95% to 150% of true thickness. Type: Ox = Oxide. LS = Low Sulphur. FR = Fresh Rock. Recovery methods and results will differ based on the type of mineralization. ** Bravo's nickel grades are sulphide nickel, and do not include non-recoverable silicate nickel, unlike historic total nickel assays

Luanga Trenching Program

A trial program testing the effectiveness of trenching commenced at Luanga's Southwest Sector (Figure 1) in 2022. Trenching across the strike of the outcrop/sub-crop aimed to accurately map mineralization at surface to enable better interpretation for the planned Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE"), and to reduce the distance/spacing between assay data points in preparation for later MRE classification (i.e., Indicated/Inferred). Trenching also provides detailed outcrop mapping, supporting interpretation of the near surface at Luanga.

The trenching program has also highlighted the increase in mineralized thickness intersected in shallow drillholes nearby. Assay results from trenching (Figures 2, 3, & 4) clearly show that mineralization in the saprolite zone (above the base of oxidation) increases in thickness, common in tropical weathering profiles. Figure 7 shows mineralized thicknesses in plan. In addition, the PGM grades in the trench samples compare favourably to the high-grade intersections in nearby down dip drillholes (Figures 2 & 3). This further suggests supergene enrichment in the saprolite zone.

Luanga Metallurgical Drill Core

Historical ZW core (165mm diameter core from a 192mm diameter drill hole) (Figure 5) has been received by Bravo for four holes in the Southwest Sector (Figure 6). This core was initially intended for bulk sampling metallurgical test work by the previous owner but was not previously sampled. Bravo has relogged the core, located and verified the locations of these drill holes, and received assay results from its channel sampling of the core. Sampling procedures followed the same methodology (cutting core to both regolith and lithological contacts) and QAQC procedures used on the Company's own drill core. These historical ZW holes were drilled to cover a range of mineralization locations across the Southwest Sector, as shown in Figure 6. The core is to be used in the Phase 2 metallurgical program.

Two versions of the same drill section are shown below (Figure 2a & 2b). Figure 2a is the current version, with a trench form drill holes PPT-LUAN-FD0020 to PPT-LUAN-FM0004, with the extended zone of mineralization and high grades at surface. Trench assay grades are also superior to assay grades in nearest neighbour drilling below the trench, supportive of supergene enrichment. Figure 2b shows the original historical interpretation of the same section, without the benefit of new data. See notes on the sections for details of key changes.

Figure 3 shows a longer trench excavated to completely cover the potential thickness of mineralization at surface, where both the southern and northern limits to mineralization had not been defined by drilling. Trenching now provides a factual basis for interpretation, showing that mineralization merges in the saprolite zone to produce a continuous 146m thick layer of mineralized interval at surface. Again, assay grades encountered in trenching are higher than assay grades in nearest drill holes below the trench, supporting the existence of supergene enrichment.

Whereas the saprolite zone is relatively thin (ranging from <2m on the ridge line, to 25m away from the ridge), given Luanga's 8.1km of strike, the presence of similar saprolite layer +/- secondary enrichment could result in the definition of a significant volume of saprolite zone/oxide mineralization in a future MRE.

Trenching, performed to a high quality, replaces the requirement for the many shallow drill holes that would be needed to achieve the same result for the coming Phase 1 MRE. The same sampling, assay laboratory procedures and QAQC protocols as applied to drill core sampling are applied to trench samples.

Given the encouraging results from trenching to date, trenching is planned to continue in 2023 along the entire 8.1km strike length of the Luanga deposit.

Figure 4 shows how trenching to the south of metallurgical drill hole PPT-LUAN-FM0004 has defined the southern limit to mineralization at surface. Previously this was interpreted more conservatively. Trench data provides a factual basis for interpretation, with mineralization extending far closer to drill hole PPT-LUAN-FD0019. Sampling of ZW core metallurgical drill hole PPT-LUAN-FM0004 again shows the excellent continuity of mineralization.

Figure 6 shows a surface plan of the 5 trenches completed to date in the Southwest Sector. Thick magenta-coloured stripes show the thickness of mineralization at surface in the trenches.

Luanga Drilling Status

A total of 175 drill holes (40 in 2023) have been completed by Bravo to date, for 31,510 metres, including all 8 planned twin holes and all 8 metallurgical holes (not subject to routine assaying). These 8 metallurgical holes are in addition to the four ZW historical holes received from Vale.

The Phase 2 drilling program is currently in progress.

Results have been reported for 119 Bravo drill holes to date. Excluding the metallurgical holes, results for 48 Bravo drill holes are currently outstanding.

Complete Table of Recent Intercepts - Trenching

TRENCH-ID From (m) To (m) Thickness

(m) Pd (g/t) Pt (g/t) Rh (g/t) Au (g/t) PGM + Au

(g/t) TYPE TRC22LU002 24.1 82.6 58.5 1.46 0.54 0.09 0.03 2.13 Ox Including 56.2 80.6 24.4 2.05 0.75 0.13 0.02 2.96 Ox TRC22LU003 20.6 167.4 146.8 1.36 0.59 0.07 0.03 2.05 Ox Including 41.3 91.3 50.0 2.90 1.06 0.15 0.06 4.18 Ox TRC22LU004 0.0 81.1 81.1 0.98 0.42 0.05 0.04 1.48 Ox Including 0.0 41.4 41.4 1.50 0.55 0.09 0.06 2.20 Ox TRC22LU005 28.0 57.9 29.9 1.25 0.46 0.07 0.12 1.90 Ox And 71.1 80.9 9.8 0.27 0.20 0.02 0.03 0.51 Ox TRC22LU006 0.0 39.3 39.3 1.10 0.42 0.08 0.11 1.70 Ox Including 30.0 36.0 6.0 2.29 0.98 0.17 0.28 3.71 Ox

Notes: All 'From', 'To' and 'Thickness' measurements are true measurements. Type: Ox = Oxide. The recovery of PGM+Au from saprolitic material is being tested as part of the ongoing metallurgical program.

Complete Table of Recent Intercepts  Historical Metallurgical Drill Core

HOLE-ID From (m) To (m) Thickness

(m) Pd (g/t) Pt (g/t) Rh (g/t) Au

(g/t) PGM + Au

(g/t) Ni** (%) Cu (%) TYPE *FM-0004 0.0 110.0 110.0 1.39 0.64 0.08 0.12 2.23 NA NA Ox/FR Including 68.7 103.7 35.0 2.25 1.01 0.15 0.11 3.51 0.16 0.02 FR *FM-0005 37.5 42.5 5.0 0.42 0.15 0.03 0.02 0.62 0.26 0.01 FR And 70.5 80.5 10.0 0.82 0.34 0.06 0.03 1.26 0.05 0.01 FR *FM-0006 25.7 44.5 18.8 0.75 0.44 0.07 0.12 1.37 0.18 0.02 FR And 59.0 74.8 15.8 0.85 0.43 0.06 0.10 1.45 0.17 0.02 FR *FM-0007 26.1 125.0 98.9 1.02 0.38 0.05 0.03 1.47 0.17 0.02 FR

Notes: All 'From', 'To' depths, and 'Thicknesses' are downhole. 'NA' Not applicable for Oxide material. * Prefix "PPT-LUAN- "and are historical ZW core. Given the orientation of the trenches at surface, the intercepts are estimated to be 95% to 150% of true thickness. Type: Ox = Oxide. LS = Low Sulphur. FR = Fresh Rock. Recovery methods and results will differ based on the type of mineralization. ** Bravo's nickel grades are sulphide nickel, and do not include non-recoverable silicate nickel, unlike historic total nickel assays

About Bravo Mining Corp.

Bravo is a Canada and Brazil-based mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its Luanga PGM+Au+Ni Project in the world-class Carajas Mineral Province of Brazil.

The Luanga Project benefits from being in a location close to operating mines, with excellent access and proximity to existing infrastructure, including road, rail and clean and renewable hydro grid power. The project area was previously de-forested for agricultural grazing land. Bravo's current Environmental, Social and Governance activities includes replanting trees in the project area, hiring and contracting locally, and ensuring protection of the environment during its exploration activities.

Technical Disclosure

Technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Simon Mottram, F.AusIMM (Fellow Australia Institute of Mining and Metallurgy), President of Bravo Mining Corp. who serves as the Company's "qualified person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). Mr. Mottram has verified the technical data and opinions contained in this news release.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "potential", "upgrade", "enrichment", "bonus", "successful", "significant impact", or variants of these words and other similar words, phrases, or statements that certain events or conditions "will" occur. This news release contains forward-looking information pertaining to the Company's ongoing trenching program, the impact of large diameter historical metallurgical drill core on future mineral resource estimates; the interpretation of the results of trench data, including that the mineralization thickens in the saprolite and is locally supergene enriched and the impact on mineral resource estimates thereof; the potential that similar thickening and supergene enrichment may be present along the entire strike length of the Luanga deposit and the impact on mineral resource estimates thereof; the potential future economics of the saprolite material, including the recoverability of PGMs and Au therefrom; and the results of planned additional trenching and drilling. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, unexpected results from exploration programs, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, environmental risks, limitations on insurance coverage; and other risks and uncertainties involved in the mineral exploration and development industry. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including, but not limited to, the assumption that the assay results confirm that the interpreted mineralization contains significant values of PGMs and Au; that the mineralization remains open to depth, that assay results will be in line with management's expectations; that activities will not be adversely disrupted or impeded by regulatory, political, community, economic, environmental and/or healthy and safety risks; that the Luanga Project will not be materially affected by potential supply chain disruptions; and general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Schedule 1: Trench Location Details

HOLE-ID Company East (m) North (m) RL (m) Datum Length

(m) Az. Dip Sector TRC22LU002 Bravo 656950.35 9339571.90 263.62 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 82.61 360.00 0.00 Southwest TRC22LU003 Bravo 657002.64 9339587.51 269.28 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 168.43 360.00 0.00 Southwest TRC22LU004 Bravo 657050.51 9339641.18 270.65 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 81.08 360.00 0.00 Southwest TRC22LU005 Bravo 657102.38 9339631.05 258.05 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 80.85 360.00 0.00 Southwest TRC22LU006 Bravo 657150.52 9339682.18 259.35 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 39.30 360.00 0.00 Southwest PPT-LUAN-FM0004 Vale 657150.57 9339724.66 277.00 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 110.00 0.00 -90.00 Southwest PPT-LUAN-FM0005 Vale 657750.57 9340094.66 269.00 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 90.35 0.00 -90.00 Southwest PPT-LUAN-FM0006 Vale 657350.57 9339856.66 267.00 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 87.80 0.00 -90.00 Southwest PPT-LUAN-FM0007 Vale 656950.57 9339593.66 281.88 SIRGAS2000 UTM22S 125.00 0.00 -90.00 Southwest



Schedule 2: Assay Methodologies and QAQC

Samples follow a chain of custody between collection, processing, and delivery to the SGS laboratory in Parauapebas, state of Para, Brazil. Samples are delivered to the core shack at Bravo's Luanga site facilities and processed by geologists who insert certified reference materials, blanks, and duplicates into the sampling sequence. Samples are placed in secured polyurethane bags, then in security-sealed sacks before being delivered directly from the Luanga site facilities to the Parauapebas SGS laboratory by Bravo staff. Additional information about the methodology can be found on the SGS Geosol website (SGS) in their analytical guides.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control ("QAQC") is maintained internally at the lab through rigorous use of internal certified reference materials, blanks, and duplicates. An additional QAQC program is administered by Bravo using certified reference materials, duplicate samples and blank samples that are blindly inserted into the sample batch. If a QAQC sample returns an unacceptable value an investigation into the results is triggered and when deemed necessary, the samples that were tested in the batch with the failed QAQC sample are re-tested.
Highlights

Drilling has identified a large sulphide mineralised system at the Mont Agoma Prospect.

at the Mont Agoma Prospect. Significant tin, copper and zinc mineralisation from surface, >300m of strike and >250m width . System is open to the southeast and down dip .

. System is . Twelve diamond drill holes completed to date, showing strong increase in tin mineralisation at depth and to the southeast.

Assay results for first four holes (drilled in northwest) received. Results include 11.25m at 0.51% Sn from 5.75m and 4.4m at 1.03% Sn from 36m. These discovery holes interpreted to be northern, near surface extensions of the main target tin zone . Anomalous zones of zinc and copper mineralisation also intersected.

. Anomalous zones of zinc and copper mineralisation also intersected. Continuing drill program is testing mineralisation to the southeast and at depth. Most recently completed drill hole intersected a significant (29m) zone enriched in tin (including visible cassiterite) and strong visible copper - assays pending .

. Drilling has also recently commenced at the nearby Kalayi Prospect (tin-in-soil anomaly over 2 kms strike length).

CEO and President Mark Gasson commented: "The initial drilling at Mont Agoma has identified a large sulphide mineralised system and these discovery holes have enabled us to identify tin bearing zones at surface that continue along strike and appear to increase significantly in grade and width at depth. Base metal zones which contribute to the width of the sulphide mineral system of more than 250m do the same. We are clearly starting to understand the sulphide system and the mineral distribution within it. Previous experience in working in similar environments has shown that a centimetre wide cassiterite (tin) zone or vein at shallow intervals can blow out into a 20 to 30m wide mineralised zone at depth or along strike.

The key is that we have identified tin zones at shallow levels and through our understanding of the distribution of the tin, copper and zinc we are able to be more precise in planning our drilling programmes going forward. The programme was initially planned to test the source of the high-grade tin in soil anomaly identified at Mont Agoma. We are very excited to have uncovered a system of this magnitude. To date we have only tested 300m of the potential 1.2km of strike length defined in the high-grade tin in soil anomaly down to a maximum depth of 200m at Mont Agoma. We also look forward to understanding the grade and widths of mineralisation currently being mined by artisanal means at the Kalayi Prospect where drilling has recently commenced."

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Rome Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RMR) (FSE: 33R) ("Rome" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that drilling at its Mont Agoma Prospect (Figure 1), which is located within the Bisie North Tin Project ("BNTP"), has uncovered a large sulphide mineralised system along the Bisie Ridge that also hosts Alphamin's Mpama North & South deposits. Hydrothermal fluids impregnated in tin, copper, lead and zinc were injected along open structures at the time of mineralisation resulting in three discrete zones of mineralisation, which have a combined width of more than 250m at Mont Agoma. The most important of these are the "copper and tin" zone and the "tin" zone located along the north-eastern portion of the sulphide body.

The BNTP is comprised of two contiguous properties, exploration permits PR 13274 and PR 15130, which are situated in the Walikale District of the North Kivu Province in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo ("DRC"). The current drill program is designed to test ~300m of potential strike of the newly defined high grade, contiguous tin in soil anomaly at the Mont Agoma Prospect, which is a high-level tin in soil geochemical anomaly, with soil samples returning up to 0.2% Sn and covers a strike length of circa 1,200m (Figure 1). The Company has now completed a total of 12 diamond holes totalling 2,406m (Figure 2 and Table 1).

Figure 1: Tin in Soil Anomaly at the Bisie North Tin Project showing 3 Main Prospects. (Note: The extent of the Anomaly which covers ~5km)

Assay Results Received for First Four Holes, Further Eight Holes Completed

Assay results have been received for the first four holes drilled at Mont Agoma, confirming the discovery of significant tin, copper and zinc mineralisation in an area devoid of artisanal workings and with no hard rock exposures. Three main zones have been identified from drilling to date. From the southwest to the northeast, these include a "zinc zone" with anomalous tin and copper having a true thickness of approximately 100m, a "tin and copper zone" of various thickness but increasing at depth, and a "tin zone" intersected to date down to a maximum of 30-35m below surface. The upper levels are highly weathered and leached as evidenced from extensive alteration and gossan development in the oxide zone. Two tin zones were intersected at these levels and reported best intercepts of 11.25m at 0.51% Sn from 5.75m in hole MADD004 and 4.4m at 1.03% Sn from 36m & 1m at 1.3% Sn from 46m in MADD002 (refer to Figure 3). Drill hole details are shown in Table 1 and all results are shown in Table 2 in Annexure 1.

Copper was generally depleted in three of the four holes except MADD003 which reported 5.65m at 1.24% Cu from 82m and 8.2m at 1.89% Cu from 93.3m.

Significant zinc intersections included 81.6m at 2.68% Zn from 76.9m including 54m at 3.35% Zn from 95m & 56m at 1.67% Zn in MADD001 and 90m at 4.17% Zn from 77.5m including 30.6m at 7.28% Zn from 129.4m & 66m at 2.31% Zn from 172m in MADD002 (Figure 3). Zinc usually represents one of the final phases of mineralisation during which hydrothermal fluids are channelled through pre-existing structures, some of which may previously have hosted tin and copper mineralisation as suggested by the occasional anomalous tin and copper values within the zone.

Figure 2: Diamond Drill Hole Collar Positions on the Mont Agoma Tin in Soil Anomaly

Figure 3: Section 1 Across MADD002, MADD007, MADD005 and MADD010A showing Surface Mineralisation over >200m.

A further eight drill holes have been completed to date, with results expected in the coming months. The most recent drillholes have focused on testing mineralisation to the southeast and intersecting the "copper and tin" and "tin" zones at depth where visible cassiterite was identified in all deep holes (Figure 4). A significant 29m zone enriched in tin (identified from Niton XRF readings) and strong visible copper was identified at 137m downhole depth in drill hole MADD010A. Recent observations strongly support an increase in grade and width of the tin and copper zone at deeper levels. In addition, it appears that grades and widths of mineralisation increase to the southeast where the high-grade tin in soil anomaly continues for more than 500m.

Sampling has now been prioritised according to visible mineralisation with guidance from the Niton XRF to enable quicker results from the most prospective intervals and are in process of being sent to Lubumbashi for sample preparation prior to dispatch to ALS Global in Johannesburg.

Figure 4: Photos of Cassiterite (brown to pinkish mineral) and Sulphides in MADD011 (left) and MADD012 (right).

Drilling at Kalayi and Mont Agoma NW Prospects

Rome has commenced drilling at the Kalayi Prospect where artisanal miners have recovered cassiterite (tin) from a series of small-scale workings.

The tin in soil anomaly at the Kalayi Prospect has been defined over 2km (refer Figure 1). Channel samples collected previously from artisanal workings reported up to 1m at 11% tin ** within a broader 10m wide zone. Planned holes will target 250m of strike underlying the tin workings.

The first artisanal tin mining in the project area was carried out at the Mont Agoma NW Prospect (refer Figure 1). The surface workings were subsequently abandoned. Four holes covering 200m of strike length will test the tin mineral potential underlying these workings.

The Company currently has three diamond drill rigs on site with one rig dedicated to drilling the Kalayi and Mont Agoma NW Prospects.

Planned Soil Sampling

Infill soil sampling programmes have been planned to follow up on lower order tin in soil anomalies which, when combined with the priority anomalies, cover 5 km on the BNTP as shown in Figure 1.

All anomalies are on topographic highs and warrant further investigation as they have equal potential for new tin discoveries.

Collar Data of Completed Holes

The collar data of the holes completed, are listed in Table 1. The collars have been sited using a handheld GPS and will be surveyed by a qualified surveyor at a later stage. The coordinate system used is UTM35SWGS84.

QP Statement

Dr Deon Vermaakt is a consultant of Rome Resources Ltd and qualified geologist and is a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Geological Science) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP Reg. No. 400074/03). Dr Vermaakt is a qualified person (QP) under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

Dr Vermaakt is satisfied that the results returned for the QAQC (8 blanks, 10 standards and 9 duplicate samples) samples which were inserted at regular intervals throughout the samples reported grades which were well within acceptable ranges as per industry standard.

About Rome Resources

Rome Resources Ltd. is a mineral exploration company that has entered into two option agreements to acquire 51% direct and indirect interests in two contiguous properties situated in the Walikale District of the North Kivu Province in eastern DRC, which are collectively referred to as the "Bisie North Tin Project". Rome intends to fund exploration on the project up to the completion of a definitive feasibility study.

Contacts

Investors/Shareholders

Mark Gasson

President, CEO & Director

P: (604) 687-6140

Media

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this news release may include certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Although Rome Resources Ltd believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, Rome Resources Ltd 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.

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.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

Annexure 1

Table 1: Drill Hole Details at the Mont Agoma Prospect

Hole ID Easting Northing RL (m) Azi  Dip  EOH

(m) MADD001 578764 9891547 852 230 -60 254.5 MADD002 578733 9891586 847 230 -60 279.0 MADD003 578755 9891675 842 230 -60 116.5 MADD004 578816 9891590 843 230 -60 27.0 MADD005 578783 9891627 837 230 -60 300.0 MADD006 578678 9891608 855 230 -60 87.0 MADD007 578729 9891598 854 50 -50 225.0 MADD008 578691 9891751 827 230 -60 222.0 MADD009 578856 9891560 824 230 -60 150.0 MADD004A 578815 9891590 843 230 -60 16.,0 MADD010 578825 9891676 805 230 -60 48.0 MADD010A 578824 9891676 805 230 -60 223.5 MADD011 578796 9891712 827 230 -60 148.0 MADD012 578758 9891748 818 230 -60 160.0

Table 2: Significant Mineral Intercepts at the Mont Agoma Prospect (0.1% cut-off grade for Sn, 0.5% cut-off grade for Zn & Cu; 3m maximum internal waste)

Hole No From To Interval Sn Cu Zn Pb MADD001 1.85 4.1 2.25 0.21 8 9 1 0.12 35 39.1 4.1 0.35 76.9 158.5 81.6 2.68 Including 95 149 54 3.35 163 219 56 1.67 225 227 2 1.28 226 227 1 0.12 MADD002 1 3 2 0.13 36 40.4 4.4 1.03 46 47 1 1.30 77.5 167.5 90 4.17 Including 129.4 160 30.6 7.28 131.5 133 1.5 0.19 172 238 66 2.31 216 217 1 0.13 MADD003 0 12 12 1.23 0 13 13 0.21 16 18 2 1.04 19 20 1 0.11 33 36.5 3.5 1.03 52 53 1 0.13 59 67 8 0.73 64 65.5 1.5 0.17 68.5 70 1.5 0.20 74.5 79 4.5 0.16 82 87.65 5.65 1.24 1.69 1.99 83 87.65 4.65 0.12 93.3 95 1.7 0.37 93.3 101.5 8.2 1.89 95 101.5 6.5 1.03 100 101.5 1.5 0.16 105 106.5 1.5 1.20 MADD004 5.75 17 11.25 0.51 Including 2.25 1.06 22.5 24 1.5 0.32

** Grades reported by ALS Global laboratory in Johannesburg
TORONTO, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Karora Resources Inc. (TSX: KRR) ("Karora" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce it has entered into an agreement with Kalamazoo Resources Limited (ASX: KZR) ("Kalamazoo") to create a lithium and critical metals exploration company to be called Kali Metals Limited ("Kali"). Karora and Kalamazoo will vend their lithium exploration projects into Kali with a goal of creating a new, jointly owned but separately run lithium-focused ASX listed exploration company to be led by an experienced board and management team. The proposed transaction will allow Karora shareholders to participate in the significantly enhanced upside potential of a larger, combined lithium-focused investment vehicle that will fund its own exploration and development activities while Karora remains focused on growing its gold and nickel production base at both Beta Hunt and Higginsville.

Transaction highlights:

Agreement entered into with ASX-listed Australian gold miner Kalamazoo whereby at IPO, Karora will vend into Kali its highly prospective lithium mineral rights across an extensive range of projects located south of Kalgoorlie, Western Australia ("Higginsville Lithium Project") and Kalamazoo will vend into Kali its Australian lithium projects, including Marble Bar and DOM's Hill located in the Pilbara and Jingellic and Tallangatta projects located in the Lachlan Fold Belt ( New South Wales and Victoria )

At listing, Kali will be a leading Australian critical minerals exploration company, having consolidated significant lithium and critical minerals tenure totaling ~3,833km 2

Kali's extensive exploration portfolio is adjacent to world-class lithium mines and deposits in the Eastern Yilgarn (1,607km 2 ) and Pilbara (199km 2 ) WA, and prospective greenfields lithium exploration projects in the Lachlan Fold Belt (2,027km 2 ) in NSW and VIC

Kali to raise a minimum of A$10 million , up to a maximum of A$12 million at IPO to fund its exploration and drilling plans across the combined Australian lithium portfolio

Kalamazoo to own 55% of Kali, with Karora owning the remaining 45% (prior to the proposed capital raise)

Kali will be led by Managing Director Graeme Sloan and Non-Executive Chairman Luke Reinehr , both bringing significant existing understanding of the newly combined Kali lithium tenements as well as strong track records of value creation in Australia's mining sector.

Paul Andre Huet, Chairman & CEO of Karora, commented: "After carefully evaluating several different avenues to fully assess, explore, accelerate and crystallize the value of the lithium potential across Karora's Higginsville tenements, we are very pleased to enter into this arrangement with Kalamazoo Resources to create Kali Metals  a leading Australian lithium-focused exploration company. Working with Kalamazoo, we have assembled a top-notch management group with not only an excellent track record of building value in Australia's mining sector, but also an extensive existing knowledge of the tenement base to give Kali a running start.

The creation of a separate lithium-focused vehicle allows Karora's management team to remain laser-focused on our existing gold and nickel production growth strategy, while giving Karora shareholders near-term exposure to the lithium exploration potential on our Higginsville tenements in combination with Kalamazoo's tremendous lithium projects in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. Under the Kali Metals banner these assets form a new large, highly prospective exploration vehicle in the exciting Australian lithium sector that is playing a leading role in the global energy transition. We look forward to participating in the enhanced combined success of the newly formed Kali Metals."

Luke Reinehr, Chairman and CEO of Kalamazoo commented "With Kalamazoo's primary focus on gold, we have contemplated alternatives for our Pilbara and Lachlan Fold Belt lithium projects for quite some time. When the opportunity arose to join with Karora, into what we consider will be a significant critical minerals exploration company in Australia, the rationale was compelling. We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Karora that will see our lithium portfolio combined with its highly prospective tenement package located in a Tier 1 lithium mining jurisdiction. The transaction will result in the establishment of Kali as a well-funded ASX-listed lithium explorer, with an unrivalled portfolio of assets located in the hottest hard-rock lithium regions, not just in Australia, but globally. The spin-out of Kali will provide our shareholders with ongoing exposure to these expanded assets and strategy."

Figure 1: Location of Kali Metals' Portfolio of Lithium Exploration Projects

Overview

Karora has entered into a Shareholders Agreement ("the Agreement") with Kalamazoo under which Kalamazoo will vend its non-gold exploration projects and mineral rights into Kali, followed by the undertaking of an IPO pursuant to the agreement. The proposed transaction will see the establishment of a new ASX-listed exploration company, Kali Metals Limited (proposed ASX Code ASX: KM1), with its own highly experienced board and management team.

Kali's lithium exploration tenure at IPO will comprise:

Kalamazoo's Marble Bar and DOM's Hill Lithium Projects in the Pilbara, WA (199km 2 ) which hosts the world-class Pilgangoora and Wodgina lithium mines. Exploration across these lithium projects is currently being undertaken in Joint Venture with Chilean lithium producer Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. ("SQM") (NYSE: SQM).

) which hosts the world-class Pilgangoora and Wodgina lithium mines. Exploration across these lithium projects is currently being undertaken in Joint Venture with Chilean lithium producer Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. ("SQM") (NYSE: SQM). Lithium mineral rights granted across a substantial portion of Karora's Higginsville gold tenement package (~1,607km 2 ) located south of Kalgoorlie, in the Eastern Yilgarn, WA, which hosts the nearby Mt Marion and Bald Hill lithium mines and the Pioneer, Manna and Buldania lithium deposits.

) located south of Kalgoorlie, in the Eastern Yilgarn, WA, which hosts the nearby Mt Marion and Bald Hill lithium mines and the Pioneer, Manna and Buldania lithium deposits. Lithium mineral rights granted across Kalamazoo's Jingellic and Tallangatta Lithium Projects (2,027km2) located in the Lachlan Fold Belt, NSW, and Victoria .

Kali has established its headquarters in Perth, WA, with an exploration office in Melbourne, Victoria. Kali intends to be certified carbon neutral for its business operations under the Australian Government's recognized Climate Active Program. This process will have Kali establishing its carbon footprint, outlining its plans to measure and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions where feasible and offsetting its remaining carbon-generating activity. Both Karora's and Kalamazoo's operations are similarly certified under the Climate Active Program.

Board and Management

Graeme Sloan has been appointed as Managing Director of Kali with Kalamazoo's Chairman/CEO Luke Reinehr as Non-Executive Chairman. Graeme Sloan is a highly qualified Mining Engineer with over 35 years' experience including as previous Managing Director of Karora. Paul Adams, John Leddy, and Simon Coyle have been appointed as Non-Executive Directors. Assisting the Board during the IPO process is Luke Mortimer as Exploration Manager, Bernard Crawford as CFO, and Nick Madders as Company Secretary/Legal Counsel. These appointments will provide a high degree of continuity and understanding of Kali's exploration portfolio. Kali has appointed Grant Samuel as Corporate Advisor and Gilbert + Tobin as legal advisor.

Next Steps

As part of the proposed IPO listing on the ASX, Kali is targeting to raise approximately A$10 million to A$12 million (prior to fees). The closing of the proposed transaction is subject to final Board, regulatory and other conditions precedent.

Kali Projects Overview

Eastern Yilgarn Lithium Projects, WA

The Higginsville Lithium Project is located south of Kalgoorlie within the Eastern Yilgarn, a leading hard-rock lithium region containing major mines and deposits including the Mt Marion Lithium Mine (71Mt @ 1.4% Li 2 O), Bald Hill Lithium Mine (26Mt @ 1.0% Li 2 O), Pioneer Dome Lithium Project (11Mt @ 1.2% Li 2 O), Buldania Lithium Project (15Mt @ 1.0% Li 2 O) and Manna Lithium Project (33Mt @ 1.0% Li 2 O) (Figure 2). Within the Higginsville Lithium Project area, highly prospective lithium targets have already been identified from outcrop and historical reports at Spargos, Mt Henry, Buldania North and East and the Chalice/Sinclair prospects.

Pilbara Lithium Projects, WA

The Marble Bar Lithium Project is located along the margin of the Moolyella tin and tantalum alluvial field and contains numerous local occurrences of mapped lithium-enriched pegmatites (Figure 3). Located approximately 25km to the north is Global Lithium Resources Limited's (ASX: GL1) Archer Lithium Deposit, also on the margin of the Moolyella tin and tantalum field, with a reported Inferred Resource of 18Mt @ 1.0% Li 2 0 2 . Recent mapping and surface sampling at the Marble Bar Lithium Project, has discovered outcropping spodumene-bearing pegmatite dykes associated with high-grade rock chip samples assaying up to 2.8% Li 2 O.

The DOM's Hill Lithium Project, East Pilbara, contains a similar geological setting and target host rocks strongly analogous to that of the nearby world class Pilgangoora (Pilbara Minerals, ASX: PLS) and Wodgina (Albemarle, NYSE: ALB/Mineral Resources, ASX: MIN) pegmatite-hosted lithium deposits. The project covers significant strike extent of Archaean granite-greenstone contact zone, or "Goldilocks Zone" considered highly prospective for Lithium-Caesium-Tantalum ("LCT") pegmatites.

The Marble Bar and DOM's Hill Lithium Projects are part of an exploration Joint Venture ("JV") agreement originally between Kalamazoo and major Chilean lithium producer SQM. Kalamazoo has, with SQM's consent, assigned its interest in the JV to Kali. SQM has been granted the right to earn an initial 30% interest (to a maximum of 70%) in all mineral rights at the Marble Bar and DOM's Hill Lithium Projects, by sole funding a minimum of A$12 million of exploration and development activities over the next four years. SQM is one of the world's leading lithium producers with its main asset in Australia being its 50% joint venture interest in the Mt Holland Lithium Project.

Lachlan Fold Belt, NSW/VIC

The Jingellic and Tallangatta Lithium Projects are an "early mover" play, covering geology considered highly prospective for both LCT-pegmatites as well as hard-rock tin mineralization (Figure 4). Both projects host highly fractionated S-type granites and related pegmatite dykes that are closely associated with numerous alluvial and hard rock tin-tungsten and tantalum occurrences and mine-workings. These are all critical, favourable features of the LCT-pegmatite exploration model. Additionally, both projects lie within the extension of the same Lachlan Fold Belt geology that hosts known LCT mineralization (including spodumene) at the Dorchap LCT Pegmatite Project located nearby in NE Victoria as reported by Dart Mining NL (ASX: DTM).

About Kalamazoo Resources Limited

Kalamazoo Resources Limited (ASX: KZR) is an ASX-listed exploration company with a portfolio of high-quality gold and lithium projects in Victoria and the Pilbara, WA. In Victoria Kalamazoo is exploring its 100% owned projects in the Castlemaine (historical production of ~5.6Moz Au), Maldon (historical production of ~2Moz), and Tarnagulla Goldfields as well as its Myrtle and Mt Piper Projects near the world class Fosterville gold mine in Victoria. In the Pilbara, Kalamazoo's extensive exploration program is advancing the 100% owned Ashburton Gold Project to further increase the 1.44Moz Au resource as well as the 100% owned Mallina West Project along strike from De Grey's 10Moz Hemi discovery.

Kalamazoo's lithium projects include DOM's Hill and Marble Bar Lithium Projects in an exploration joint venture with the major Chilean lithium producer Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM) (NYSE: SQM) and the 100% owned Pear Creek Lithium Project. Kalamazoo also has the 100% owned "Jingellic" and "Tallangatta" lithium exploration projects in the Lachlan Fold Belt of southern NSW/NE Victoria.

Kalamazoo has become the first gold and lithium explorer operating in Australia to be certified carbon neutral for its business operations under the Federal Government's Climate Active Program, with projected 2022 emissions fully offset achieved with a verified environmental reforestation program in Western Australia.

About Karora Resources

Karora is focused on increasing gold production to a targeted range of 170,000-195,000 ounces by 2024 at its integrated Beta Hunt Gold Mine and Higginsville Gold Operations ("HGO") in Western Australia. The Higginsville treatment facility is a low-cost 1.6 Mtpa processing plant, which is fed at capacity from Karora's underground Beta Hunt mine and Higginsville mines. In July 2022, Karora acquired the 1.0 Mtpa Lakewood Mill in Western Australia. At Beta Hunt, a robust gold Mineral Resource and Reserve are hosted in multiple gold shears, with gold intersections along a 5 km strike length remaining open in multiple directions. HGO has a substantial Mineral gold Resource and Reserve and prospective land package totaling approximately 1,900 square kilometers. Karora has a strong Board and management team focused on delivering shareholder value and responsible mining, as demonstrated by Karora's commitment to reducing emissions across its operations. Karora's common shares trade on the TSX under the symbol KRR and on the OTCQX market under the symbol KRRGF.

Compliance Statement (JORC 2012 and NI 43-101)

The disclosure of scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Stephen Devlin, FAusIMM, Group Geologist, Karora Resources Inc., a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" including without limitation statements relating to production guidance, full year consolidated 2023 and longer-term production guidance and the potential of the Beta Hunt Mine and Higginsville Gold Operation.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Karora to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could affect the outcome include, among others: future prices and the supply of metals; the results of drilling; inability to raise the money necessary to incur the expenditures required to retain and advance the properties; environmental liabilities (known and unknown); general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; results of exploration programs; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; political instability, terrorism, insurrection or war; or delays in obtaining governmental approvals, projected cash operating costs, failure to obtain regulatory or shareholder approvals. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Karora 's filings with Canadian securities regulators, including the most recent Annual Information Form, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Although Karora 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 Karora 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.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Search Minerals Inc. (TSXV: SMY | OTCQB: SHCMF) (Search or the Company), announces that Todd Burlingame has been appointed as President and CEO and as a Director of the Company effective immediately.

Mr. Burlingame had previously served as the Companys Chief Operating Officer and has the requisite skill set required to successfully advance the Companys Rare Earth Elements (REE) project in southeast Labrador. Mr. Burlingame is a 30-year mining industry veteran with a successful track record of advancing complex mining and natural resource projects across northern Canada. He holds a degree in geology from the University of British Columbia.

Leo Power has stepped down from his role as Interim President and CEO, but will continue on as Chairman of the Board of Directors. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Leo Power is pleased to welcome the new President and CEO and stated, Todds depth of experience at all levels of the mining industry and his ability to forge successful partnerships with Indigenous groups including the Nunatukavut Community Council (NCC) in Labrador and with multiple federal and provincial governments will be a significant positive for our project. Todds proven track record of advancing serious mining and hydro projects in Newfoundland and Labrador confirms he is exactly the type of CEO required by Search Minerals to advance our Rare Earth Elements project in Labrador. Todds past roles include Chair and CEO of the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board, Chair and CEO of the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board, Project Manager, Voiseys Bay Nickel Commercial Processing Plant, Vale Canada; Manager and Team Lead, Lower Churchill Project, Nalcor Energy; Executive VP, Kami Iron Ore property in western Labrador, and President, High Tide Resources. I look forward to working with Todd to ensure both a smooth transition and a successful mining project for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Todd Burlingame stated, I am pleased to accept the role of Director, President, and CEO of Search Minerals. Over the past year in the role of COO I conducted an in-depth analysis of the properties, project and the Company. I am convinced that, by building on the hard work done to date, there is a real opportunity to bring Rare Earth production to the province within a realistic time frame. I am impressed with the commitment of our shareholders, and patience shown by our creditors. I am fully committed to build the team and execute the plan needed to bring the project into reality for the benefit of all parties.

In connection with the appointment of Mr. Burlingame, the Company announces that it has granted Mr. Burlingame 2,000,000 stock options. The stock options will be exercisable for a period of three years at an exercise price of $0.05 and vest over a period of twenty-four months.

Concurrently with the appointment of Mr. Burlingame, InCoR has committed to advancing to the Company CAD$500,000 as a short-term non-interest bearing loan. The parties are continuing discussions to finalize the proposed secured loan contemplated by the previously announced non-binding term sheet.

About Search Minerals Inc.

Search Minerals is focused on finding and developing Critical Rare Earths Elements (CREE), Zirconium (Zr) and Hafnium (Hf) resources within the emerging Port Hope Simpson  St. Lewis CREE District of South East Labrador. Search controls two deposits (Foxtrot and Deep Fox), two drill ready prospects (Fox Meadow and Silver Fox) and numerous other REE prospects, including Fox Valley, Foxy Lady and Awesome Fox, along a 64 km long belt forming a REE District in Labrador. Search has completed a preliminary economic assessment report for DEEPFOX and FOXTROT. Search is also working on three exploration prospects along the belt which include: FOX MEADOW, SILVER FOX and AWESOME FOX. Search Minerals has continued to optimize our patented Hydrometallurgy Direct Extraction Process technology with the support from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and from the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency. We have completed two pilot plant operations and produced highly purified mixed rare earth carbonate concentrate and mixed REO concentrate for separation and refining. We also recognize the continued support by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for its Junior Exploration Program. Search Minerals was selected to participate in the Government of Canada Accelerated Growth Service (AGS) initiative, which supports high growth companies. AGS, as a one-stop shop model, provides Search with coordinated access to Government of Canada resources as Search continues to move quickly to production and contribute to the establishment of a stable and secure rare earth element North American and European supply chain.

For further information, please contact:

Leo Power

Chairman of the Board

709-682-3543

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

Except for the statements of historical fact, this news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. "Forward-looking information" in this news release includes the advance of the loan proceeds from InCor, and other forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such forward-looking information.

The forward-looking information in this news release reflects the current expectations, assumptions and/or beliefs of the Company based on information currently available to the Company. In connection with the forward-looking information contained in this news release, the Company has made assumptions about the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events, and that the Company will receive the loan proceeds from InCor.

Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such information due to the inherent uncertainty therein. The Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, unless and until required by applicable securities laws. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the Company's filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com.
TORONTO, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Red Pine Exploration Inc. (TSXV: RPX, OTCQB: RDEXF) (Red Pine or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced best efforts private placement (the Offering) for gross proceeds of approximately $7.745 million, including full exercise of the Agents Option (as defined in the press release of the Company dated March 31, 2023). The Offering consisted of: (i) 5,675,000 units of the Company (the Units) at a price of $0.20 per Unit (the Issue Price); (ii) 11,538,230 tranche 1 flow-through units of the Company (the Tranche 1 FT Units) at a price of $0.235 per Tranche 1 FT Unit; and (iii) 13,679,000 tranche 2 flow-through units of the Company (the Tranche 2 FT Units and together with the Units and the Tranche 1 FT Units, the Offered Securities) at a price of $0.285 per Tranche 2 FT Unit.

The Offering was co-led by Haywood Securities Inc. (Haywood) and 3L Capital Inc. (3L) on behalf of a syndicate of agents including Laurentian Bank Securities Inc. (together with Haywood and 3L, the Agents). Haywood acted as sole bookrunner in connection with the Offering.

Each Offered Security consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a Common Share) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of the Company (each whole purchase warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one Common Share (a Warrant Share) at a price per Warrant Share of $0.25 until May 8, 2024.

Each Common Share and Warrant underlying the Tranche 1 FT Units and the Tranche 2 FT Units qualify as a flow-through share within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Tax Act). The gross proceeds from the sale of Tranche 1 FT Units and Tranche 2 FT Units will be used by the Company to incur eligible Canadian exploration expenses that will qualify as flow-through mining expenditures as such terms are defined in the Tax Act (the Qualifying Expenditures) related to the Company's projects in Canada. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers of the Tranche 1 FT Units and the Tranche 2 FT Units effective December 31, 2023. The net proceeds from the sale of Units will be used by the Company for ongoing exploration at the Wawa Gold Project, working capital and general corporate purposes.

In consideration for their services, the Company (i) paid the Agents a cash commission equal to 6% of the gross proceeds, and (ii) issued to the Agents 1,853,533 compensation options (the Compensation Options). Each Compensation Option is exercisable to acquire one Common Share at the Issue Price until May 8, 2025.

All securities issued in connection with the Offering are subject to a hold period in Canada expiring September 9, 2023. The Offering remains subject to final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

An insider of the Company purchased 75,000 Units under the Offering. Such transaction constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9 and Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Company has relied on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation. The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before the closing of the Offering because the details of the insider participation were not finalized until closer to the closing and the Company wished to close the Offering as soon as practicable for sound business reasons.

The Offered Securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Red Pine Exploration Inc.

Red Pine Exploration Inc. is a gold exploration company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Companys shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol RPX and on the OTCQB Markets under the symbol RDEXF.

The Wawa Gold Project is in the Michipicoten Greenstone Belt of Ontario, a region that has seen major investment by several producers in the last five years. Its land package hosts numerous historic gold mines and is over 6,900 hectares in size. Led by Quentin Yarie, CEO, who has over 25 years of experience in mineral exploration, Red Pine is strengthening its position as a major mineral exploration and development player in the Michipicoten region.

For more information about the Company, visit www.redpineexp.com

Or contact:

Quentin Yarie, President and CEO, (416) 364-7024, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Or

Carrie Howes, Director Corporate Communications, (416) 644-7375, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains statements which constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company with respect to future business activities and operating performance.

Forward-looking information is often identified by the words may, would, could, should, will, intend, plan, anticipate, believe, estimate, expect or similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained in this news release includes but may not be limited to: the expected use of proceeds of the Offering and receipt of TSX Venture Exchange final approval of the Offering. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflect managements expectations, estimates or projections concerning future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Such opinions, assumptions and estimates are inherently subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: the Companys expectations in connection with the projects and exploration programs being met, the impact of general business and economic conditions, global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future conditions, fluctuating gold prices, currency exchange rates (such as the Canadian dollar versus the United States Dollar), variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in accounting policies, changes in the Companys mineral reserves and resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, changes in project development, construction, production and commissioning time frames, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, higher prices for fuel, power, labour and other consumables contributing to higher costs and general risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, unexpected changes in mine life, seasonality and weather, costs and timing of the development of new deposits, success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims, and limitations on insurance.

This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factor disclosure contained in filings made by the Company, including the Companys annual information form, financial statements and related MD&A for the year ended July 31, 2022, and the interim financial reports and related MD&A for the period ended January 31, 2023, filed with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at www.sedar.com.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Marimaca Copper Corp. (Marimaca Copper or the Company) (TSX: MARI) announces changes to its executive management team with Petra Decher stepping down from her role as the Companys Chief Financial Officer, and the appointment of Jose Antonio Merino as Managing Director, Chile and Interim CFO.

Ms. Decher has served as CFO since April 26, 2021, and prior to that as a member of the Board of Directors of Marimaca. Ms. Decher has provided integral leadership during the Companys progress toward the development of the Marimaca Copper Project (the Project) and the Company would like to thank her for her contributions.

Mr. Merino, who will be based in Chile, brings over 15 years of international and in-country experience to the Marimaca team. Prior to joining Marimaca, Mr. Merino served as General Manager of Business Development and M&A at SQM, the Chilean-based major mining and chemicals company and one of the worlds largest Lithium producers. As Managing Director, Chile, Mr. Merino will oversee all in-country commercial, finance, administrative and site-based workstreams during the Companys path to development of the Marimaca Project. Mr. Merino will serve as Interim CFO during the Companys search for a full-time appointee. Mr. Merino is a Civil Engineer by training and has served in various senior roles in the natural resource industry across Project Development, M&A, Corporate Finance and Advisory.

Michael Haworth, Chairman of Marimaca Copper, commented:

We would like to thank Petra for her valuable contributions as a member of Marimacas executive team over the last 2 years and, prior to that, as a member of the Board. She has been a core member of the team as the Company has commenced its transition from explorer to developer, and leaves behind an excellent foundation for Marimacas next phase of development.

We are very pleased to welcome Jose Antonio to the Team. His experience and commercial acumen will be exceptionally valuable during this next, critical phase of Marimacas journey to becoming a high-quality copper producer. The Company is rapidly de-risking the Marimaca Project and Jose Antonios leadership will be instrumental in the delivery of our next key milestones including permitting submissions, the planned Definitive Feasibility Study and strategic financing discussions.

Contact Information

For further information please visit www.marimaca.com or contact:

Tavistock

+44 (0) 207 920 3150

Emily Moss / Adam Baynes

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Marimaca Copper, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: risks related to share price and market conditions, the inherent risks involved in the mining, exploration and development of mineral properties, the uncertainties involved in interpreting drilling results and other geological data, fluctuating metal prices, the possibility of project delays or cost overruns or unanticipated excessive operating costs and expenses, uncertainties related to the necessity of financing, the availability of and costs of financing needed in the future as well as those factors disclosed in the annual information form of the Company dated March 27, 2023, the final short form base prospectus and other filings made by the Company with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities (which may be viewed at www.sedar.com). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Marimaca Copper undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements contained herein whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asante Gold Corporation (CSE:ASE | GSE:ASG | FRANKFURT:1A9 | U.S.OTC:ASGOF) (Asante or the Company) announces that it has entered into a confidentiality agreement with Fujairah Holding LLC (Fujairah) in connection with the previously-disclosed, unsolicited, non-binding and conditional expression of interest (the Non-Binding Expression of Interest) to acquire all of the Companys issued and outstanding common shares not held by Fujairah. The Company has granted Fujairah an exclusivity period that expires on May 15, 2023. Fujairah has indicated to the Company that it is willing to engage in financing discussions with the Company.

The Company confirms that entering into the confidentiality agreement and grant of exclusivity does not constitute Board support of the Non-Binding Expression of Interest.

The Company has no indication as to Fujairahs intentions to submit any additional binding or non-binding proposal with respect to the acquisition of the Companys common shares not held by Fujairah or any potential financing to be provided by Fujairah. Any such proposals, if received, would be reviewed by the Company, in consultation with the Company's financial and legal advisors. The Company does not undertake any obligation to provide any updates with respect to the Non-Binding Expression of Interest or any other proposals, except as required under applicable law.

About Asante Gold Corporation

Asante is a gold exploration, development and operating company with a high-quality portfolio of projects and mines in Ghana. Asante is currently operating the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines with combined forecast production of approximately 400,000 ounces of gold for 2023. The Company continues with detailed technical studies at its Kubi Gold Project leading to production. All mines and exploration projects are located on the prolific Bibiani and Ashanti Gold Belts. Asante has an experienced and skilled team of mine finders, builders and operators, with extensive experience in Ghana. The Company is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange, the Ghana Stock Exchange and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Asante is also exploring its Keyhole, Fahiakoba and Betenase projects for new discoveries, all adjoining or along strike of major gold mines near the centre of Ghanas Golden Triangle. Additional information is available on the Companys website at www.asantegold.com.

About the Bibiani Gold Mine

Bibiani is an operating open pit gold mine situated in the Western North Region of Ghana, with previous gold production of more than 4.5 million ounces. It is fully permitted with available mining and processing infrastructure on-site consisting of a newly refurbished 3 million tonne per annum process plant and existing mining infrastructure. Mining commenced in late February 2022 with the first gold pour announced on July 7, 2022. Commercial production was announced November 10, 2022.

For additional information relating to the mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates for the Bibiani Gold Mine, please refer to Asantes press releases dated July 18, 2022 and September 1, 2022 and the technical report filed on its SEDAR profile (www.sedar.com) on September 1, 2022.

About the Chirano Gold Mine

Chirano is an operating open-pit and underground mine located in the Western Region of Ghana, immediately south of the Companys Bibiani Gold Mine. Chirano was first explored and developed in 1996 and began production in October 2005. The mine comprises the Akwaaba, Suraw, Akoti South, Akoti North, Akoti Extended, Paboase, Tano, Obra South, Obra, Sariehu and Mamnao open pits and the Akwaaba and Paboase underground mines. Gold Equivalent Production in 2021 was 154,668 oz on a 100% basis (source Kinross Gold Corporation).

For further information please contact:

Dave Anthony, President & CEO: +233 55 879 3309 (Ghana) or +1 647 382 4215 (Canada), This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Frederick Attakumah, Executive Vice President, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Qualified Person Statement

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dave Anthony, P. Eng., Mining and Mineral Processing, President and CEO of Asante, who is a qualified person under NI 43-101.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release constitute forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, production forecasts for the Bibiani and Chirano Gold Mines, estimated mineral resources, reserves, exploration results, development programs and increases in mine-life, potential synergies between Chirano and Bibiani, the Non-Binding Expression of Interest, and potential financing transactions. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Companys inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its planned activities, the Companys inability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and the price of gold. The reader is referred to the Companys public disclosure record which is available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except as required by securities laws and the policies of the securities exchanges on which the Company is listed, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

LEI Number: 529900F9PV1G9S5YD446. Neither IIROC nor any stock exchange or other securities regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
The UN's top aid official was in Saudi Arabia on Sunday for ceasefire talks between Sudan's warring generals, as concern grows for the humanitarian situation at the start of a fourth week of gun battles and air strikes in the Sudanese capital.

Multiple truce deals have been declared, without effect, since fighting erupted between army and paramilitary forces on April 15 in the poverty-stricken country with a history of political instability.

Fierce combat since then has killed hundreds of people, most of them civilians, wounded thousands and sparked multiple warnings of a "catastrophic" humanitarian crisis.

More than 100,000 people have already fled the country.

Ahmed al-Amin, a resident of the Haj Yousif district in northeastern Khartoum, on Sunday told AFP he "saw fighter jets flying above our heads and heard the sounds of explosions and anti-aircraft" fire.

Across the Red Sea in the Saudi city of Jeddah, talks were underway aiming for a ceasefire that could push efforts to bring humanitarian aid to the besieged population.

Those unable to flee face dire shortages of water, food, medicines and other staples.

Even before the war began about one-third of Sudan's people required humanitarian assistance, the UN said.

The fighting has seen aid workers killed, health facilities attacked, and the UN projects that the number of "acutely food insecure people" in Sudan could increase by between two and 2.5 million if the war is prolonged.

Analysts expect that it will be.

- 'Gunfire everywhere' -

Martin Griffiths, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, was in Jeddah Sunday "and the purpose of his visit is to engage in humanitarian issues related to Sudan," spokesperson Eri Kaneko said.

In Port Sudan last week, Griffiths said he had been informed by the UN's World Food Programme that six trucks bringing aid to the Darfur region had been "looted en route".

He called for security guarantees "clearly given by militaries, to protect humanitarian systems to deliver".

There was no indication that Griffiths would play a direct role in the Saudi discussions about a possible ceasefire.

The generals leading the warring parties have said little about the talks being held in Jeddah since Saturday.

On Thursday US President Joe Biden signed an executive order that broadens authority to impose sanctions over Sudan's conflict. It did not name potential targets.

Army spokesman Brigadier General Nabil Abdalla said the Jeddah talks were on how a truce "can be correctly implemented to serve the humanitarian side", while Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries, only said on Twitter that he welcomed the technical discussions.

Riyadh and Washington have supported the "pre-negotiation talks" and urged the belligerents to "get actively involved".

Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit expressed his support Sunday for the "indirect negotiations" in order to prevent "an escalation of the current conflict" into a prolonged war "that divides Sudan into warring regions."

At the same meeting of the bloc in Cairo, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry warned of "a slide into a worse and more dangerous security situation" affecting the region.

Heavyweights in the pan-Arab bloc are divided on Sudan. Egypt solidly supports the regular army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the UAE is in favour of the RSF, according to experts.

Egypt, to which more than 60,000 refugees have fled, announced Shoukry will head Monday to South Sudan and Chad, both of which also border Sudan and have themselves received tens of thousands of people escaping the war.

Thousands have also crossed into neighbouring Ethiopia, most of them third-country nationals.

"This is my second war that I flee," Syrian refugee Salam Kanhoush told AFP at the Ethiopian border town of Metema.

Women carrying infants and donkey carts laden with baggage converge on the bustling, dusty crossing.

"Our safety and life comes first," Eritrean refugee Sara told AFP, asking to be identified only by her first name. "We can't be thinking of the things that we have left behind" in Sudan.

The one thing they were relieved to abandon was the violence. Muhammad Yusuf, a Sudanese refugee, described "gunfire everywhere" and "expecting to be a victim at anytime."

- 'No apparent consensus' -

Hopes for international efforts to silence the guns are modest.

"The lowest common denominator of the international community is a cessation of hostilities," said Sudan researcher Aly Verjee at Sweden's University of Gothenburg. "But there is no apparent consensus on what to do beyond that initial objective."

Burhan and Daglo jointly staged Sudan's latest coup in 2021.

That putsch derailed a transition to democracy after the ouster two years earlier of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir following mass pro-democracy protests.

Bashir had unleashed the Janjaweed militia in response to an uprising in Sudan's Darfur region in 2003, leading to war crimes charges against him and others.

The RSF are descended from the Janjaweed.

Since their coup, Burhan and Daglo have fallen out in a bitter power struggle, lastly over a plan to integrate the RSF into the army.

At least 700 people have been killed in the fighting, which has spread beyond Khartoum to Darfur and elsewhere, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project. The Sudanese doctors' union said 479 of the dead were civilians.
The Arab League on Sunday welcomed back Syria's government, ending a more than decade-long suspension and securing President Bashar al-Assad's return to the Arab fold after years of isolation.

In November 2011, the body suspended Damascus over its crackdown on peaceful protests, which had begun earlier that year and which spiralled into a war that has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions and battered the country's infrastructure and industry.

While the front lines have mostly quietened, large parts of the country's north remain outside government control, and no political solution has yet been reached to the 12-year-old conflict.

"Government delegations from the Syrian Arab Republic will resume their participation in Arab League meetings" starting Sunday, said a unanimous decision by the group's foreign ministers.

The ministers in a statement emphasised their "keenness to launch a leading Arab role in efforts to resolve" the Syria crisis.

They agreed to form a ministerial committee to continue "direct dialogue with the Syrian government in order to reach a comprehensive solution".

Ahmed Aboul Gheit, head of the 22-member Arab League, said the decision "brings the Arab side into communication with the Syrian government for the first time in years".

Syria's return to the body is "the beginning... not the end of the issue", he added, noting it was up to individual countries to decide whether to resume ties with Damascus.

- 'Diplomatic victory' -

Following the announcement, Syria's foreign ministry stressed the importance of "Arab cooperation", in a statement carried by state news agency SANA.

"The next stage requires an effective and constructive Arab approach... based on dialogue, mutual respect and common Arab interests", it added.

Several Arab countries cut ties with Syria early in the conflict, betting on Assad's demise, while some including Qatar and Saudi Arabia provided support to the Syrian opposition.

Qatar on Sunday said it would not normalise relations with Assad's government, but foreign ministry spokesman Majid bin Muhammad al-Ansari told state media Doha would not be "an obstacle" to the Arab move.

The last Arab League summit Assad attended was in 2010, while the opposition attended the pan-Arab group's summit in Doha in 2013, to Damascus's fury.

Aboul Gheit told a press conference Assad was welcome to attend the Arab League's next summit on May 19 once invited by host Saudi Arabia.

Regional capitals have gradually been warming to Assad as he has stubbornly held onto power and clawed back lost territory with crucial support from Iran and Russia.

The United Arab Emirates, which re-established ties in late 2018, has been leading the recent charge to reintegrate Damascus into the Arab fold.

In a phone call Sunday with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Assad expressed "Syria's appreciation for the role the UAE has played in reunifying and improving Arab relations", the Syrian presidency said.

A February 6 earthquake that wreaked devastation in Turkey and Syria sparked Arab outreach to Assad's government, while intensified regional diplomatic activity has been underway since a March decision by rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume ties.

"Syria's regional isolation is officially broken," analyst Fabrice Balanche said, calling Sunday's decision a "diplomatic victory" for Assad.

- Opposition 'abandoned' -

April saw a first Saudi official, Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, visit Damascus since the start of the war, days after a trip to Jeddah by Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad.

Mekdad has travelled to a string of Arab countries in recent weeks, including a May 1 meeting in Amman with counterparts from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Egypt to discuss the long-running conflict.

Assad is hoping normalisation with wealthy Gulf nations could bring economic relief and money for reconstruction.

With the war far from over and Assad still internationally isolated, analysts say sanctions will likely continue to deter investment.

The Syrian National Coalition, the main opposition alliance, said Sunday's decision meant "abandoning" and ignoring "the will of the Syrian people", leaving them "without official Arab support".

"It is unacceptable to allow (Assad) to avoid punishment for the war crimes he has committed against Syrians," said the Turkey-based coalition.

The Qatari foreign ministry spokesman said on Sunday that Damascus had to "address the roots of the crisis that led to its boycott, and to take positive steps towards addressing the issues of the Syrian people".

In northwest Syria's rebel-held Idlib region, displaced Syrians expressed frustration.

"We were pushed out of our homes," said Ghassan Yussef, 54.

"I ask the Arab rulers: where are you taking us?"
Wad Madani  The Sudanese Minister of Finance and Economic Planning and leader of the Justice and Equality Movement, Jibril Ibrahim, announced ongoing efforts to pay salaries of civil servants at a meeting in Wad Madani, capital of El Gezira, yesterday.

The governors of El Gezira, Sennar, White Nile state, West Kordofan, El Gedaref, Kassala, and Blue Nile region gathered in Wad Madani on Saturday, to discuss strategies to secure food and gas supplies as well as to prepare for the upcoming agricultural season.

Ibrahim stated: "Commercial banks should finance the summer agriculture season as agriculture is one of the most important priorities of the country, especially in these exceptional circumstances". He added that arrangements are being made to pay salaries of civil servants and government workers.

Economy dire

The economy was already in deep stagnation before the outbreak of the current hostilities on April 15. The ongoing fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has worsened the situation. Many banks and factories have been forced to close, as they cannot be safely operated, which resulted in scarcity of food supplies and cash flow.

In a tweet last week, Al Baraka Bank announced that basic services have resumed in several cities and towns in Sudan, including Ed Damazin, Hasaheisa, Sennar, Kosti, Rabak, Port Sudan, El Gedaref, and Dongola.

"In Hasaheisa, the bank is open but it is overcrowded. I am worried about the future because if the situation continues, I am not sure if there will be enough cash for everyone," Ali Mustafa told Radio Dabanga from the town last week.
Kim So Yeon took to social media to explain the reason behind the remark about her marriage that sparked controversy.

The actress appeared as a guest on tvN's "Yoo Quiz on the Block," where she spoke about her K-drama comeback and marriage with Lee Sang Wo.

After the broadcast, netizens seemed disappointed in how the actor treats his wife, accusing him of gaslighting Kim So Yeon.

Is Kim So Yeon in Unhappy Marriage? Actress Shuts Down Rumors

In an Instagram Story uploaded on May 7, the actress spoke about her husband and defended him from the accusation about gaslighting and being in a unhappy relationship.

Kim So Yeon said, "Lee Sang Woo thinks about my health and takes care of me more than anyone else." The actress hinted that fans need not to worry about her marriage.

Moreover, she explained that it was for their health and to improve their immunity.

"We agreed to do it in early November. As a fun challenge, we started doing that on November 2nd, my birthday!" she said, as obtained by a media outlet.

Concluding her post, "The Penthouse" star said she "couldn't express" her idea well but assured fans that it's one of her "good memories" from her birthday.

Kim So Yeon Says Husband Lee Sang Woo Wouldn't Turn on the Heater

To recall, what started the issue was when the award-winning actress shared the story about their heater.

In a "Yoo Quiz on the Block" episode released on May 3, Kim So Yeon revealed that her husband would not turn on the heater, believing that it would help her "not to feel sad" by the cold weather.

Moreover, the actress said that "the indoor temperature had to be maintained at an appropriate temperature."

The actress also shared an instance when the weather got too cold and she wanted to turn it on from the end of September to October, but Lee Sang Woo did not allow her and said that she would only turn on the heater on her birthday, which is November 2.

"On my birthday last year, two of us counted to three and pressed the heater switch together," she said.

Kim So Yeon explained that as a person gets older, "birthdays actually don't mean much," but now sees them in a different light. She added, "I thought, 'Oh, there's a good thing on my birthday,'" referring to the heater story.

Due to this, netizens thought that Lee Sang Woo is not considering his wife's well-being and find it a bit strange. Others also thought that the celebrity couple had an "unhealthy relationship" despite being married for a long time.

Kim So Yeon met Lee Sang Woo on the set of the weekend K-drama "Happy Home" and got married in June 2017. She previously revealed in an interview that marrying her husband was a" turning point" in her life.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Kim So Yeon Reveals Truth Behind Emotional Speech After Winning Daesang at 2021 SBS Drama Awards

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
Lee Joon Gi made headlines after having a successful fan meet in Japan.

After four years, the South Korean hearthrob returns, giving his global fans a fun filled day during the meet and greet.

Back in 2022, his agency, Namoo Actors, announced that the "Flower of Evil" star would be having a fan meet in Japan.

Dubbed "Splendor Family Day, Lee Joon Gi delighted his Japanese fans by delivering a show-stopping event that took place at the PACIFICO Yokohama National Convention.

Lee Joon Gi Fan Meeting 2023: Actor Showcases Extraordinary Performance

On May 5, the actor greeted his supporters with a bright smile and good memories as Lee Joon Gi showcased his star power.

The "Criminal Minds" star proved that he is more than just a pretty face and acting skills after serenading the crowd with his amazing voice.

As mentioned by a media outlet, he opened the event by setting the mood with the song "Ma Lady."

Interestingly, the audience was surprised after the South Korean heathrob sang not just two or three songs but a total of 13, giving the crowd a night to remember.

Some of the songs include Japanese versions of "The Giving Tree", "Together," and "For You," the OST of his K-drama "Moon Lovers - Scarlet Heart Ryeo."

On top of that, he also showcased his amazing dance moves for PSY and BTS Suga's "That That," which made fans swoon over Lee Joon Gi's charm.

With this, he also expressed his deep gratitude towards the fans who showed their support by coming to the fan meet.

On Lee Joon Gi's Instagram, he featured a glimpse of his performance, thanking fans for the amazing show.

Besides dance and song numbers, the actor also talked about his recent K-drama "Again My Life," where he won Best Actor at the 2022 SBS Drama Awards.

Following the success of his last K-drama, this raised expectations for his new series "Arthdal Chronicles," season 2.

Lee Joon Gi Drama: Actor Stars in 'Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon'

Initially released in 2019, the fantasy romance series stars Song Joong Ki and Kim Ji Won, along with Jang Dong Gum, Kim Ok Vin and more.

After four years, the hit tvN series returns with new lead stars.

After Song Joong Ki and Kim Ji Won failed to return in season 2, "Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon" now stars Lee Joon Gi and Shin Se Kyung as Sa Ya and Tan Ya.

Viewers are looking forward to seeing the on-screen chemistry of the new lead stars as they portray the heroes of the hit epic fantasy drama.

"Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramoon" aims to premiere sometime in 2023.

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
Luanda  Angolan authorities defended Saturday in Bujumbura (Burundi) the revision of the Framework Agreement for Peace, Security and Cooperation for the DRC and Great Lakes Region, signed on 23 February 2013.

The stand was expressed by the Minister of State and Chief of Civil Affairs Office to the President of the Republic, Adao de Almeida, when speaking at the 11th High-Level Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Signatory Countries of the Agreement- Framework for Peace, Security and Cooperation for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Great Lakes Region, which took place in Bujumbura (Burundi).

According to Adao de Almeida, who was speaking on behalf of the Angolan Head of State and Acting President of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the agreement satisfactorily fulfilled the objectives that were at the base of its genesis.

According to Adao de Almeida, the Angolan authorities also consider it imperative to carry out an assessment of its impact, possible shortcomings and challenges in its implementation, in order to guide the definition of the new cooperation framework.

Adao de Almeida expressed his satisfaction at holding the 11th High Level Summit, which brings together the highest Representatives of the Signatory Countries of the Framework Agreement for Peace, Security and Cooperation for the Democratic Republic of Congo and the region and includes matters of great relief for the region.

The minister said although the Great Lakes is a region that generally records an environment of peace, but there is still concern about various cases of political instability and insecurity that affect some of the Member States.

He mentioned, as example, the cases of political tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, the peacebuilding process in the Central African Republic (CAR) and, more recently, the resumption of conflict in the Republic of Sudan.

The Minister of State referred that the degree of latent or recurrent conflict has a devastating and counterproductive effect on the aspirations of states in the region to silence weapons by 2030, in harmony with the principles and objectives enshrined by the African Union (AU).

Adao de Almeida added that such a situation delays economic development and destroys cohesion and social harmony, contributing to the idea that Africa, the cradle of humanity, has its future irremediably compromised.

As a result of its historical past, characterised by a long military conflict that lasted almost three decades, he said, Angola is contributing with its experience for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and for the promotion of an inclusive dialogue between the disputing parties, tending to find alternative ways to violence.

Meanwhile, he added that the Angolan Presidency of the ICGLR is, above all, guided by the incessant search for bridges of dialogue and convergence of positions.

He therefore expressed his satisfaction at the fact that President Joao Lourenco was named as Champion of Peace and Reconciliation in Africa, at the 16th Extraordinary Session of the AU, held in May 2022, in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, during which, he was also designated as a Mediator to facilitate dialogue and defuse political-diplomatic tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.

Due to the resumption of armed actions perpetrated by the M23, as well as the existence of other armed groups and negative forces that continue to destabilise the eastern region of the DRC, above all the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), RED- TABARA and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), the Angolan Statesman, in his capacity as mediator, began an intense process of political consultations between the two parties, at the highest level, highlighting the adoption, in July 2022, of the ICGLR Roadmap on the Pacification Process of the Eastern Region of the DRC.

The so-called Luanda Roadmap or Luanda Process aimed, among other objectives, at normalising political-diplomatic relations between the DRC and Rwanda, including the cessation of hostilities and the immediate withdrawal of positions occupied by the M23, as well as the establishment of a climate of trust between the States of the Region and the creation of ideal conditions for dialogue and political consultation to solve the current security crisis in the East of the DRC and the return of refugees.

For this purpose, an Ad-Hoc Verification Mechanism, led by an Angolan general officer, and supported by a contingent of the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA), would be deployed to guarantee the security of the Cantonment zones of the M23 fighters, as well as of the activities of the Mechanism, in close collaboration with the Regional Force of the East African Community (EAC), with MONUSCO and with the FARDC, as decided by the Peace and Security Council of the AU, held in February 2023, in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia ).

Adao de Almeida reaffirmed the commitment of the Angolan government to continue to work in close coordination with the Nairobi Process to support peace efforts in eastern DRC, being optimistic that this meeting may indicate concrete steps towards its harmonisation, as mandated by the AU Peace and Security Council in February 2023.

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Regarding the Republic of Sudan, he said that the Acting President of the ICGLR has been following with deep concern the deterioration of the political transition process, caused by the violent confrontation between the Sudanese Armed Forces (FAS) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), initiated in April 2023 in Khartoum and quickly spreading to other parts of the country.

For this reason, he expressed dismay at the growing number of fatalities, as well as the destruction of important infrastructure in the country, and joined the appeals made by other actors, such as the AU, on the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the opening of humanitarian corridors for the displaced and the evacuation of foreigners in the country, as well as adopting measures that will establish constitutional normality through dialogue.

Attended the meeting presidents of the DRC Felix Tshisekedi, who is also acting President of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Framework Agreement, of Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye, and Acting President of the East African Community.

The Secretary- General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, President of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat as well as other high continental dignitaries also attended the event.
Graduate benefits from prosthetics program at Kennesaw State

KENNESAW, Ga. | May 8, 2023

Adesua Ojeifoh What started as an affinity for science fiction movies has turned into a career for Kennesaw State University graduate student Adesua Ojeifoh.

Spellbound by the prostheses in movies like The Terminator and I, Robot, Ojeifoh brought that passion to KSUs Master of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics (MSPO) program, and she will graduate this week with a masters degree and a mission.

Ive far surpassed where I thought I would be when I came here, Ojeifoh said. The professors at Kennesaw State have helped us excel by providing us with resources and connecting us with those that can help guide our interests within the field of prosthetics and orthotics.

Ojeifoh enrolled at Howard University and earned a bachelors in chemical engineeringthe closest offering to biomedical engineering at the time, she saidand manufactured medical devices for several years before realizing her passion lies elsewhere. Her research led her to KSUs MSPO program, which migrated from Georgia Tech in time for the 2021-22 school year.

She has made the most of her time at KSU, presenting her research at the Georgia Society of Orthotics and Prosthetics (GSOP) Annual Meeting and the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) Annual Meeting and Symposium. She won a $10,000 scholarship from the American Board for Certification of Orthotists and Prosthetists.

Most recently Ojeifoh earned the Click Medical Scholarship Award for excellence in orthotics and prosthetics study, which will fund a summer volunteer experience at a clinic in Guatemala. That experience, called the Range of Motion Project (ROMP) will feed into her future goal of starting her own clinic to provide prosthetic and orthotic care to members of underserved communities.

Ill see patients, evaluate their needs, fabricate and deliver devices, and Ill also have a chance to do some gait training with the physical therapists that are there. They will have educational discussions and seminars as well, she said. Ill be getting some hands-on experience to help supplement my education. I'm very excited about going.

When Ojeifoh returns from Guatemala, shell work as a resident in a clinic, which will involve 18 to 24 months of on-the-job training. More specifically, she noticed during her time at KSU that much of the research and patient care involves lower extremities like legs and feet, leaving a need for specialists in upper extremities. She said while having a complete skillset makes her valuable, she also wants to make a difference by specializing in upper extremity prosthetics.

Ojeifoh looks at the past several years in wonder at her journey from chemical engineering to prosthetics and orthotics and credits the people she has encountered through the MSPO program at Kennesaw State for setting her on the path to a dream career.

The people at Kennesaw State go out of their way to help the students here, and because of that the opportunities are boundless, she said. Someone was always there to help, both in the lab and beyond, and I appreciate everything Ive experienced during my time here.

 By Dave Shelles

Photos by Judith Pishnery

Related Stories

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 43,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.
A local group calling itself Movement For Change (MOC) has embarked on efforts to improve sanitation across Monrovia and its surroundings.

The group is made up of mostly youths between the ages of 18-35. It has complained about the poor sanitation issues in Monrovia and other communities.

It believes that poor sanitation results in several health complications in society, deaths, and a short life span for the youthful population.

MOC said this needs the government's attention.

Nellyville Mohammed, head of the local sanitation group, acknowledged that the effect of poor sanitation poses serious threats to human lives.

Nellyville stated that the MOC is here to get the job done across the length and breadth of Liberia.

He called for support from the government, individuals, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to expand the project into other communities.

Since its establishment, MOC has embarked on "Healthy Community, Healthy Life" sanitation programs across Paynesville. Communities targeted include 72nd, Police Academy, Neezo, and the commercial hub, Redlight.

Mohammed said cleaning the communities requires collective efforts, including residents whom he said are mostly at risk.

According to him, backyard wastes, garbage, and dumpsites in these communities cause serious health hazards.

He urged the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) to institute measures in line with the laws and city ordinances that require everyone to get involved.

Mohammed believes that Liberia can be a clean place if sanitation is addressed with the collective support of every Liberian.

He pledged his group's commitment to improving and resolving the challenges in the sector if the necessary support is given.
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Nowadays, its clear that physician burnout is real. We know the statistics.

The American Medical Association reports that physician burnout  defined as a long-term stress reaction involving emotional exhaustion, lack of empathy toward patients, and a feeling of lower personal achievement  nearly doubled from 2020 to 2021.

Beckers also reports that the primary care specialties  internal medicine, pediatrics, and family medicine  are among the top 5 most burned out specialties.

Well, ten years ago, that was me.

I have been practicing medicine since 1998. I came to the United States from Kenya in 1993 and did my residency at Cook County from 1995 to 1998. After that, I moved to the Tampa area and began practicing as an attending in a fee-for-service environment.

It was tough. I saw as many patients as possible  often 25 to 30 patients daily. Back then, the primary physician also went to the hospital to see patients, and we were often on-call after hours.

As time went on, it really started taking a toll.

We expanded the clinic, and there came a time when the volume was overwhelming. You start deciding, whats the real value of my life anyway? Especially when youre missing family time and everything. I knew I wouldnt last long like this.

Then our practice started to work with Humana, and they offered us a switch from fee-for-service to a partial Medicare risk contract, which is part of a value-based care continuum. We accepted. Through that experience, we began to understand the true meaning of value-based care and quality over quantity.

Whats risk? And what is value-based care?

A Medicare risk contract is an agreement where practices accept a fixed dollar reimbursement per Medicare enrollee for delivery of a full range of prepaid health services.

Value-based programs reward health care providers with incentive payments for the quality of care they give to people with Medicare, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

To put it short: in our practices, we receive a fixed dollar amount, and we are rewarded for the patients outcomes. This new practice model allows us to see fewer patients and spend more time with them.

How things have changed

When we switched financing models, everyone asked, Why are you doing this? Whats the reward?

The patients reward is being able to reduce their medication use and feeling more satisfied with their care. Whats my reward? For one, when you reduce cost, the savings can go back to the physicians and the staff.

Secondly, the way I saw it was if I was seeing 30 patients per day and making one amount of money, and now, Im seeing 15 per day and making the same or more, then why struggle? Why would I not take care of this senior population?

That was one of the biggest drivers to convince other physicians to try it out. They realized its about the quality, which is how most of us wanted to practice when we entered medical school. The typical annual visit is booked for 40 to 45 minutes.

And that trust patients once had for their physicians? Value-based care gave me that back. It allows me to spend more time with the patients and often get to know their families as well. Also, since we own so many pieces of their health care journey, we can build patient trust during longer visits and through frequent touchpoints between the patients and the staff.

Offering a one-stop shop

There are lots of barriers for seniors looking to get good care. A lot of them dont want to go  or cant get  to 10 different places to see their doctors or get tests done. If they can get care in one place, then its easier. Thats another bonus of the value-based care model.

Many value-based practices offer ancillary services in-house to control costs. The benefit is that the patient only has to come to that one place  for visits, lab work, X-rays, fitness activities, and EKGs.

Theres also value in the patient having a relationship with you and your entire staff and not having to wonder who will see them today and how that person might treat them. They can just pick up the phone and know who to expect on the other line.

It comes back to physician wellness

The only way I can provide good care is for me to be healthy. I can advise my patients, but how effective am I if I dont take care of myself and get burned out? Plus, I likely wouldnt be practicing medicine for long.

I am so grateful for this type of practice model. It gave me longevity I would not have had in the old model.

I currently split my time between clinical hours and the administrative work overseeing our 27 clinics throughout Florida as a chief medical officer. I take pride in explaining value-based care to newer physicians coming out of residency and how it can give them career fulfillment too.

I love coming to work. I enjoy the relationships I have the time to develop with patients and their families. And I feel confident that we are providing good care. To think, I almost stopped practicing ten years ago. So glad I didnt. This model made all the difference.

Chandravadan Patel is an internal medicine physician.
Former Aruu North Member of Parliament, Odonga Otto, has handed himself to the Aswa River Region Police Headquarters in Gulu City, days after police launched a manhunt for him over allegations of aggravated torture and robbery in Pader District.

Otto and a group of vigilantes are accused of beating and severely injuring three charcoal dealers in the Atanga sub-county in the Pader district on April 30th.

Speaking to the media earlier, Otto explained why he did so.

He however denied the robbery allegations against him, saying they are trumped up since he was not within the Acholi Sub-region on the date the alleged incidents were reported.

Last week, three people lodged complaints of torture and robbery at Atanga Police Station against Odonga Otto and other suspects who are still on the run.

Im surprised, I saw on social media that the police want me and I have come. I have been in Kampala since Eid so its very interesting that the trumped-up charges and allegations labeled against me happened the very day I was in Kampala, Odonga said.
By Mike Sebalu

A section of health rights activists has expressed concern with the constitutional court ruling nullifying the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, 2015.

The constitutional court on Friday repealed the law which among other things, prohibited the sale and use of several narcotic drugs in the country.

This follows a 2017 petition to the court by farmers growing miraa (khat) under their umbrella body Wakiso Miraa Growers and Dealers Association Limited.

The farmers were seeking the overturning of a parliamentary decision to ban the sale and use of miraa which they said was inconsistent with principles of legality, equality guaranteed under the constitution since they were never consulted.

Speaking to KFM, Moses Talibita, Uganda National Health Consumers Organisation Legal Officer said the courts decision will further expose more people to drugs hence increasing the mental disease burden.

The prevalence of mental health cases demands on the government to increase health workers that are supposed to reach out, mitigate, and support families. It is not in good faiththeres nothing bad in the narcotics law, it is intended to protect and support families, Talibita.
Khartoum  While representatives of the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) commanded by Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) headed by Lt Gen Mohamed 'Hemedti' Dagao began 'pre-negotiation talks' in Saudi Arabia yesterday, many Sudanese activists reject both warring parties.

The resistance committees active in the neighbourhoods of eastern Khartoum said in a press statement on Tuesday that the usual "binary position (with/against the army/ militia), does not concern us as civilians in anything".

According to the resistance committees, "the two positions express a direct interest for each of the parties to the conflict in power," while "our position necessarily favours the only one affected by this war, the Sudanese people - whom the conflicting parties are attempting to get on their side and their allies, in order to gain popular and political support.

"The most important position now is the preservation of people's lives and their livelihood, peace and security, and access to basic services."

Warlords

Jonathan Hutson, a strategic communications professional, who served as the architect of the Satellite Sentinel Project launched in 2010 to monitor "mass atrocities in Sudan", confirmed the view of the Khartoum East Resistance Committees in a tweet yesterday.

Based on information from "reliable sources in Sudan, political parties, resistance committees, women's organisations, trade unions & human rights defenders," he states that "Sudanese civil society leaders reject both warlords [..], no matter who wins this unjust war.

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"Sudanese civil society leaders say that neither Gen. Burhan nor Hemedti will gain legitimacy, or the type of enduring cooperation needed to govern Sudan. They add that rule by strongmen would produce economic chaos, protests, mass killings, starvation, and diseases such as cholera."

One of them, who asked to remain anonymous for reasons of security, told Hutson that "We cannot talk about rebuilding a peaceful, new Sudan as long as either of these two warlords dominates Sudanese political life."

Bargaining table

The civil society activists insist that they be included at the bargaining table in order for peace negotiations to succeed. They call for a ceasefire, civilian control of the entire government and all components of the state, including the armed forces and law enforcement, Hutson says.

They call for paramilitary troops to be absorbed by the army under civilian authority, and demand that a transitional government under civilians will have the authority to root out corruption and to prepare for fair, transparent, and just elections.

Hutson lauds the activities of the resistance committees on the ground. They "are doing amazing work and deserve more validation, resources, and support from the international community".

He further states that Sudan, devastated by the war, will need support from, but not interference by, the USA and the international community to rebuild and to help stabilise the Horn of Africa.
President Yoweri Museveni has condemned the brutal murder of Vlogger, Ibrahim Tusubira commonly known as Isma Olaxess or Jaja Iculi.

Iculi was gunned down on Saturday night by unknown assailants about 30 meters away from his home in Kyanja, a Kampala suburb.

Police have arrested three suspects including the deceaseds driver over the murder.

In a tweet, the president has this afternoon again blamed assailants he refers to as pigs who use guns against unarmed opponents, emphasizing that his NRM government enjoys defeating unarmed opponents with counter-arguments and not the gun.

The president argues that killing critics shows that ones position is false and they cannot out-argue an opponent.

Condolences on the death of the blogger, Ibrahim Tusubira aka Isma Ichuli. I condemn and treat with contempt the killing of this Ugandan by some pigs. It is pigs that believe in using guns against unarmed opponents. NRM enjoys defeating unarmed opponents with counter- arguments, Museveni said in a tweet.

Referring to the machete-wielding assailants of Masaka, Museveni says most of those suspected killers are in the courts of law today.

He adds that his condolence message to the family of the deceased shall be delivered by the State House Comptroller.
Joint intelligence teams and the Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF) have arrested six suspected terrorists with locally made bombs ahead of a planned nationwide protest.

Activists have since called for protests against corruption and the economic hardships in the country.

The UPDF 1st division spokesperson Maj Charles Kabona says the suspects were found with gadgets used to make improvised explosive devices.

Kabona has urged Ugandans to remain vigilant and alert and report any suspicious people and objects in their communities.

After getting our technical and human intelligence information last night, our forces came to this place (Nabweru) and managed to arrest four people. These people are having gadgets that make Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The IEDs are mostly used negative elements in countries like Somalia, DRC and recently in Uganda when they hid us Maj Kabona said.

Meanwhile, the Kampala metropolitan deputy police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire has identified the suspects as; Hamidu Ssekide, Muhammed Kalyango, Abdul Katumba, Arafat Ssali and Emmanuel Asiimwe and Hamidu Muyonde.

Muyonde has however been accidentally shot in the foot as he explains.

He is one of the suspects that has moved away with a wound. This was an accident that occurred in the vehicle as they were preparing to drive away. But we are hopeful the injury is minor and we are waiting for the outcome from the medical side where he has been taken. They are going to be taken to one of our police stations for interrogations, Owoyesigyire revealed.

Earlier the UPDF spokesperson Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye said that these explosives were to be used today by activists who have vowed to paint the city red today.

Much as the activists have claimed todays demonstrations are peaceful, police have termed them illegal and have vowed to crack down on protesters.
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Students from Kilkenny have taken second and third place prizes in the intermediate category of the main competition and My Entrepreneurial Journey competition at this years Student Enterprise Programme National Finals.

The finals of the Local Enterprise Office initiative took place on Friday in Croke Park.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny, the students who won third place in the main competition intermediate category were Cian Holohan and Jack Dooley from St Kieran's College under the guidance of their teacher Paul Fitzgerald. Their student enterprise was called: HD Horseshoe Designs, which sell a variety of ornaments made from repurposed horseshoes.

In the My Entrepreneurial Journey competition, two Colaiste Abhainn Ri students represented Kilkenny in the National Finals; Ruth O'Sullivan of Shake It Up Ltd came third in the junior category and Darragh Lyons from Energelz was runner up in the intermediate category under the guidance of their teacher Emer Hickey.

Congratulations were also in order for Michael Bookle, Conor Monks, Darragh Dack, Conor Kelly and Isaac Magnez from The Gaming Guard at Grennan College under the guidance of their teacher Nicola Murphy, and Jane Kelly and Isabelle Doheny from Worry Not at Colaiste Abhainn Ri who put on a fantastic display at the finals.

There were 82 student businesses in contention across three main categories for the Final in what is Irelands largest entrepreneurship programme for second level students.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Pat Fitzpatrick, on hearing the results said: Congratulations to the talented students from Kilkenny for their outstanding achievements at this years Student Enterprise Programme National Finals.

"Your dedication, creativity and hard work have paid off and your success is a testament to the support and guidance of your teachers and the staff of the Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office. Keep up the excellent work and continue to inspire others with your entrepreneurial spirit.

Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Neale Richmond, who took part in the ceremony, congratulated the students.

Congratulations to everyone who made it to todays National Finals. With over 25,000 students taking part in this years programme, it is a huge achievement to make it to the Finals and shows a real flair for entrepreneurship. Some amazing businesses and entrepreneurs have come from this programme  the majority did not win any prizes but are still running successful businesses today," he said.

Aileen McGrath, Acting Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny said: Year on year the Student Enterprise Programme continues to showcase the very best of Irish ingenuity and entrepreneurship amongst our secondary school students.

"This year produced a varied selection of businesses, from agricultural products and homemade gifts to products that were built on our unique ability to tell compelling stories. We see every year that the National Finals are not an end point for our student entrepreneurs, but a stepping stone on the next stage of their entrepreneurial journey. From our class of 22/23 we will see some business leaders and global entrepreneurs of the future emerge.

The national final students, who competed across three categories, junior, intermediate and senior, were all attendance on the day exhibiting their businesses which were judged by a team of national businesses experts and mentors. Each student enterprise was challenged with creating, setting up and running their own business, which must show sales of their service or product.

The Student Enterprise Programme is funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities throughout the country. Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, over 350,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business idea, start a business and grow a business.

See www.studententerprise.ie for more.
A significant number of people who participated in a consultation on the impact of the Irish deer population believe the venison industry should be expanded.

Sixty nine percent of over 1,500 respondents to the first major public consultation on the Irish deer herd are in favour of expanding and developing a domestic venison industry in Ireland.

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, along with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh OBrien, launched the public consultation late last year to inform the next phase of the development of the Deer Management Strategy Group.

Dspite the large number of respondents in favour of expanding the venison market, consumption of venison in Ireland has dropped sharply in the last number of years.

According to the Irish Farmers Journal, a continuous decline has been noted since 2016 with just 185 deer slaughtered for meat production in 2018.

The public consultation received submissions from people all over the country from a wide variety of backgrounds, with the vast majority (86%) agreeing that culling is needed.

However, a record number of deer were culled last year despite a lack of exact population figures.

According to the Irish Deer Commission (IDC), data released by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) shows over 55,000 wild deer were culled in the 12-month period up to February 2022.

The cull shows an increase of 24% from the previous record set in 2019 when 44,381 deer were culled.

Main concerns highlighted as a result of the consultation include biodiversity loss/damage (82%), damage to agricultural crops/ grazing (81%), road safety issues (80%), preventing the establishment of new forests (71%) and a role in the epidemiology of TB in cattle (67%).

However, the IDC and the Hunter Competence Assessment Programme (HCAP) have highlighted concerns regarding the consultation process and stated it is designed in a manner that has "a predetermined outcome".

The IDC stated on their website: "The survey ignores the positive contribution wild deer make to the wider ecosystem, and will be used as a stick to vilify deer and force through changes that are not in the best interests of deer management or conservation."

The Deer Management Strategy Group will now host a series of stakeholder working groups to develop recommendations on managing the deer population effectively.

The groups will focus on development of the venison market, encouraging collaboration among stakeholders, necessary legislative changes, training and education initiatives and land management solutions.

The group, chaired by Teddy Cashman, hopes to publish the final report in early autumn.

Commenting on the work of the group, Minister McConalogue said, "For agriculture as well as our nature ecosystems, it is important that we aware of the need for the sustainable management of our national deer population. These include the protection of biodiversity, newly planted forestry, pasture and crops, road safety, animal health, public health, and not least the health and welfare of the deer themselves.

"I am delighted to see the Deer Management Strategy group, chaired by Teddy Cashman, progress this important work with officials from my department, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Coillte."
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he looks forward to hosting the King in Ireland.

Mr Varadkar and President Michael D Higgins attended the coronation service in Westminster Abbey in London.

They were also present at a reception at Buckingham Palace on Friday and spoke to Charles and members of the UK Government.

The Taoiseach said: King Charles and Queen Camilla are long-standing friends of Ireland and King Charles has visited regularly in the past two decades, supporting good bilateral relations, co-operation, peace and reconciliation.

I expressed my hope that his regular visits will continue into his reign.

I was pleased to accept the invitation to attend the coronation, alongside President Higgins, symbolising the close neighbourly relations between our two countries.

This is a historic moment for the British people, for the realm, and for their friends around the world.

Mr Varadkar added: We have deep political, economic, cultural, and personal links with Britain, which provided a welcome home to so many of our citizens for generations.

A vibrant British community actively contributes to life in Ireland in so many ways.

And, of course, there are many people, in the north especially, who are both British and Irish.

As we mark the coronation of King Charles III, I look forward to further strengthening British-Irish relations and the friendship between our peoples and look forward to welcoming the royal couple to Ireland in due course.

Mr Higgins is the first Irish head of state to attend a coronation.

To mark the event, Mr Higgins and and his wife Sabina requested the Tree Council of Ireland plant a native Irish oak tree in the woodland forest of Aurora in Co Wicklow.

The gesture was to acknowledge the Kings commitment to environmental sustainability.

Meanwhile, the Speakers of the Dail, Sean O Fearghail, and of the Senate, Jerry Buttimer, have offered their congratulations to Charles and Camilla following the coronation.

In a joint statement the Ceann Comhairle and Cathaoirleach said: On behalf of the Houses of the Oireachtas, we congratulate King Charles and Queen Camilla on this auspicious day and wish them well in their endeavours for the British people.

As the late Queen Elizabeth herself acknowledged during her landmark visit to Ireland in 2011, the history between these islands is long and complex, but at the same time the family, cultural and economic ties that bind the people of Ireland and the United Kingdom make us firm friends.

Like his late parents, King Charles has worked over the decades to build and nurture peace and reconciliation between the communities in Northern Ireland, across this island and between Ireland and Britain.

Throughout her long reign, his late mother was the embodiment of public service, dedicated to performing her duties for her people at home and committed to representing her nation abroad.

We know King Charles will continue in that tradition to build his own relations and legacy as monarch.
Hong Kong: Political parties briefed on DC reform

Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Erick Tsang and Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak briefed political parties on the proposals to improve governance at the district level today.

Mr Tsang and Miss Mak hosted three briefing sessions this afternoon for the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment & Progress of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions and the New People's Party on the objectives and benefits of the proposals.

They also pointed out that the Government is going full steam ahead to prepare the District Councils (Amendment) Bill 2023 and hopes to submit it to the Legislative Council for scrutiny as soon as possible.

The Government aims to secure LegCo's passage of the bill before the council's summer recess so that the District Council (DC) Ordinary Election can be held at the end of this year and the seventh-term DCs can take office on January 1 next year as scheduled.

The officials had in-depth discussions and exchanges with the political party members, and encouraged them to brief the public on the proposals.

Since the announcement of the proposals, Mr Tsang and Miss Mak attended radio and television programmes, briefing sessions and media interviews to brief the public, media, Hong Kong deputies to the National People's Congress, Hong Kong members of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and different political parties.

Both officials also visited street booths in various districts to appeal to the public to support the proposals.

This story has been published on: 2023-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says he concerned that the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the region remain mired in conflict and violence, driven by armed groups that it is well-established are both Congolese and foreign.

"The resurgence of the M23, an armed group that was thought to have been dismantled in 2013/2014, is even more worrying," the President said on Saturday.

President Ramaphosa was speaking in Bunjumbura, Burundi, where he was participating in the 11th High Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the DRC and the Great Lakes region.

"The current security situation in the eastern DRC requires our urgent attention. Over the past year a humanitarian catastrophe unfolded before our eyes."

To date, President Ramaphosa, said more than 800 000 people have been displaced by the conflict.

"We cannot but be moved by their plight, and by the gross violations of human rights that are taking place. We cannot but be outraged at the scale of violence being perpetrated against women and girls, and by the blatant disregard of the provisions of international humanitarian law."

This year marks 10 years since the PSC Framework was signed in 2013.

"At the time, hopes were high that the signing of the framework would usher in peace, security, stability and development for the DRC and the Great Lakes Region. Unfortunately, a decade later, these noble goals have not been achieved."

The President believes that actionable decisions need to be taken to address the shortcomings emanating from the framework not being implemented.

"It is critical that all parties to the framework demonstrate the highest political will, and reaffirm their commitment to its successfully implementation."

He said South Africa fully supports the revitalisation efforts of the PSC Framework to respond to the current evolving challenges.

The focus, according to the President, should address the root causes of the conflict and drivers of violent conflicts in the region and develop a comprehensive strategy to combat the illegal exploitation of mineral resources, corruption, money laundering, and transnational organised crime.

He also called for investment in building the institutional capacity of border management and control and the United Nations system to continue to provide capacity and technical assistance for state institutions to maintain standards of accountability with respect to gender-based violence and to strengthen legal frameworks.

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In addition, he said countries in the region should accelerate developmental initiatives that address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

"It is critical that there is harmonisation between the various initiatives aimed at addressing the situation in the DRC and the region. The PSC Framework should be the focal point all our efforts."

He commended all the role players, facilitators and the East African Community for the deployment of the regional force.

"As we meet here today, we are painfully aware of the impact of another deadly conflict brewing on our continent."

The President took the opportunity to also reiterate South Africa's position on the unfolding crisis in Sudan.

"We call upon the warring armed forces to put down their weapons for the sake of preserving human life, and to begin dialogue and negotiations without delay.

"We further call on the Sudanese authorities to swiftly work towards the restoration of civilian-led government in line with the Political Framework Agreement signed in December last year."

He told delegates that he hopes the second decade of existence of the PSC Framework will "breathe new life" into its implementation.

"We owe it to both current and future generations to give effect to the aspiration of Silencing the Guns across Africa."
Strengths Of the cryptocurrencies tracked by CoinMarketCap, the best performer for the week was Pepe, rising 1,382%.



Sales of NFTs seem to be climbing from the lowest levels since 2021 after NFT marketplace Blend launched its lending program. The peer-to-peer perpetual platform aims to improve NFT liquidity and allows owners to borrow against their digital assets within seconds, according to Bloomberg.



Conor Ryder, a research analyst at Kaiko, notes that Bitcoin perpetual futures are increasingly driving the largest digital token's price. He highlights that the Bitcoin perpetuals-to-spot-volume ratio is at its highest in nearly two years, as reported by Bloomberg. Weaknesses Of the cryptocurrencies tracked by CoinMarketCap, the worst performer for the week was BRISE, down 17.78%.



Dubai authorities reprimanded the co-founder of failed crypto hedge fund Three Arrows Capital for operating and promoting their new digital-asset exchange, OPNX, without the required local license. The action signals Dubai regulators taking a stricter approach toward crypto, as reported by Bloomberg.



The South Korean prosecutor leading the investigation into crypto entrepreneur Do Kwon believes extraditing him to his native country would be the best way to bring justice to victims of the TerraUSD cryptocurrency crash, which wiped out around $40 billion from digital currency markets, according to Bloomberg. Opportunities Ark Invest added more Coinbase shares to its stockpile. The U.S. investment management firm added 129,604 Coinbase shares to the Ark Innovation ETF, 23,456 to the Ark Generation Internet ETF and 15,809 shares to its Fintech Innovation ETF, as reported by Bloomberg.



Bitcoin climbed as renewed fears of instability in the U.S. financial system bolstered the price of cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin rose as much as 4.4% to $28,892. The gains came as U.S. regional banks led a selloff in American equities following the collapse and sale of First Republic Bank, according to Bloomberg.

Coinbase Global is launching an international derivatives exchange for institutional crypto traders outside the U.S., aiming to diversify its business amid souring relations with American regulators. The new platform will list Bitcoin and Ether perpetual futures starting this week after receiving a license from the Bermuda Monetary Authority, as reported by Bloomberg. Threats Coinbase Inc. chairman and CEO Brian Armstrong, Marc Andreessen and other officers allegedly avoided over $1 billion in losses by using inside information to sell stock within days of the cryptocurrency platform's listing two years ago. The company's board deployed a so-called direct listing instead of an IPO and rapidly sold off $2.9 billion in stock before Coinbase management revealed "material, negative information that destroyed market optimism from the company's first quarterly earnings," according to Bloomberg.



Former Celsius Network CEO Alex Mashinsky moved to dismiss a New York state lawsuit, having been accused of duping crypto investors by repeatedly making false and misleading statements about the lender's safety, as reported by Bloomberg. Mashinsky was sued for fraud by the New York attorney general in January, who alleged that his actions led to hundreds of thousands of investors losing billions of dollars worth of crypto when Celsius collapsed.



New York Attorney General Letitia James proposed a state law to tighten rules over cryptocurrency companies in her latest move against an industry she claims is suffering from "rampant fraud and dysfunction." Under her proposal, New York would require independent public audits of crypto exchanges and bar people from owning both brokerages and tokens to prevent conflicts of interest, as reported by Bloomberg. By Frank E. Holmes Contributing to kitco.com Follow @bulldogholmes www.goldnewsletter.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and may not reflect those of Kitco Metals Inc. The author has made every effort to ensure accuracy of information provided; however, neither Kitco Metals Inc. nor the author can guarantee such accuracy. This article is strictly for informational purposes only. It is not a solicitation to make any exchange in commodities, securities or other financial instruments. Kitco Metals Inc. and the author of this article do not accept culpability for losses and/ or damages arising from the use of this publication.
Speaking on ABCs This Week on Sunday U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that negotiations in regards to raising or suspending the debt ceiling should not take place with a gun to the head of the American people. During her interview, she issued a dire warning that a failure by Congress to act on the debt ceiling would trigger a constitutional crisis that would also call into question the federal governments creditworthiness.

She expressed the seriousness of the financial market's consequences if the debt ceiling is not raised by early June, when she said that, the federal government could run short of cash to pay bills. The Treasury Secretary adamantly expressed that its Congresss job to do it, if they failed to do it, we will have an economic and financial catastrophe that will be of our own making.

The president will meet with the Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and top congressional Democrats on Tuesday to discuss the issue.

The divide between legislators has become a bottomless chasm with President Biden and his Democratic constituents adamant that Congress should raise the debt ceiling without conditions. Democratic Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer last week began the process of preparing legislation that would suspend the governments debt limit for two years without conditions. This was met with strong resistance by a group of 43 Republican senators who said they oppose any bill that would only raise the US debt ceiling without addressing other priorities.

This is quite different from the Republican-led House of Representatives bill that was passed last month that would raise the governments $31.4 trillion debt ceiling by $1.5 trillion and concurrently cut approximately $4.5 trillion of government programs out of the annual budget. President Biden vowed to veto the congressional bill passed last month.

According to a Federal Reserve survey of bank loan officers, credit conditions for US businesses and households continue to tighten in the first quarter of this year. According to the survey bank loan officers believe the tightening is the direct result of the accumulating impact of the aggressive monetary policy by the Federal Reserve.

According to Reuters, The Fed's quarterly Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey, or SLOOS, among the first measures of sentiment across the banking sector since the recent run of bank failures, showed a net 46.0% of banks tightened terms of credit for a key category of business loans for medium and large businesses compared with 44.8% in the prior survey in January - a modest, stepwise change.

The problems created by US banks tightening their lending standards and the divide between Democrat and Republican legislators to agree on legislation that both parties can sign off on, coupled with Wednesdays CPI report for April create a trifecta of concerns that could exacerbate the slowing economy.

These issues were highly supportive of gold pricing which had modest gains today. As of 5:00 PM EDT, the most active June futures contract is currently trading up $3.70 and fixed at $2028.50. This modest gain comes despite fractional dollar strength with the dollar up 0.17% and the index fixed at 101.17.

For those who would like more information simply use this link.

Wishing you as always good trading,


, May 6 (Reuters) - An unknown number of miners were killed after a suspected fire at a gold mine in Peru, authorities said Saturday, as police worked to recover the bodies.

As many as 27 miners could have been killed, the local government where the mine is located, in the southern Arequipa region, said in a statement earlier Saturday.

The Arequipa government said the death toll had not been confirmed "because there was no way to communicate by telephone from the mine." It added that a short circuit could have sparked the deadly fire.

Images by local media and on social media showed dark plumes of smoke pouring out of the site.

The mine is operated by Yanaquihua, a small-scale firm. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

However, the Arequipa government said it was told the owner of the mine had gone to request help following the incident.

Around mid-day Saturday medical professionals arrived on the scene to tend to the injured, who included three rescue workers, the local government added.

Peru is South America's top gold producer and mining is a key industry for the country. Dozens of fatal accidents, largely at small mines, occur every year.



(Reporting by Marco Aquino Writing by Kylie Madry Editing by Frances Kerry)
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While not welcomed by many investors, Wealth Minerals CEO Henk Van Alphen said that the proposed changes to Chile's lithium sector clears up ambiguity and provides a way forward.

On Friday Alphen spoke to Kitco at Deutsche Goldmesse 2023 spring show in Frankfurt, Germany.

Last month Chile's President Gabriel Boric said he would nationalize the country's lithium industry, the world's second largest producer of the metal essential in electric vehicle batteries, according to a report by Reuters. Future lithium contracts would only be issued as public-private partnerships with state control. Investors didn't like the change. Lithium giant Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (SQM) dropped 18%, and Albemarle slid 10% on the day the news broke.

Alphen said the industry was stuck trying to advance new projects, and the government's proposed changes are a path forward.

"[Nothing] has happened in the last six years," said Alphen. "[We] may have to give up a majority but at least there's a way to move forward. They're very keen on getting stuff to happen ASAP. For us it's moving forward."

Wealth Minerals (TSX.V: WML) is focused on three projects.

The company's Atacama project in Chile is Wealths flagship lithium project. The company says the project is directly north of world-class production assets, which account for 25% of global lithium production.

Wealth's Ollague project is also in Chile. The company says the project can be brought to production quickly. Wealth expects to announce a preliminary economic assessment on the project this year.

Outside lithium but still within the critical metal space is the company's Kootenay project in B.C., which has nickel and copper mineralization. The company has funded an exploration program for the property for the 2023 season.

Coverage of Deutsche Goldmesse 2023 sponsored by Defiance Silver.
NEW YORK, May 8 (Reuters Breakingviews) - Warren Buffett gives off a zen vibe about Berkshire Hathaway (BRKa.N) after his time is up. The billionaire boss of the $720 billion insurance and investing conglomerate made clear again over the weekend that his energy lieutenant, Greg Abel, would follow him someday as CEO. Bequeathing his stock to various foundations provides ownership succession, too. Even those best-laid plans, however, only help Buffett-ize the company up to a point.

At this weekends annual gathering of some 30,000 Berkshire acolytes, there were questions about recent U.S. bank failures, the companys large stake in Apple (AAPL.O) and the impact of artificial intelligence. The 92-year-old Oracle of Omaha also was asked about what happens after hes gone. With Ajit Jain overseeing the insurance operations, and Todd Combs and Ted Weschler handling some of the investing portfolio, Buffett made clear again that absent some extraordinary circumstance Abel is going to succeed me.

One shareholder raised a concern that without Buffett, and his super-voting stock converting to the common variety when he dies, Berkshires strategy could be commandeered by an activist investor. In response, Buffett emphasized how his shares will go to designated philanthropic organizations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Theyll have over a decade to wind down the inheritance, in effect insulating Berkshires new leaders while they leave their own imprint.

Buffett acknowledged the arrangement gives Abel and others a honeymoon period. He also noted, fairly, that his successors will get judged based on how well they do. They are likely to struggle to live up to the CEOs legacy. He has grown Berkshire so big its harder to beat the market. Buffett also gets some of his best returns simply by being Buffett. Whether Abels imprimatur will be enough to secure a sweetheart deal like the one Berkshire landed during the financial crisis with Goldman Sachs (GS.N), for example, is questionable. Its also not obvious entrepreneurs will sell their companies so eagerly to a Buffett-less Berkshire.

The succession planning has been possible because of Buffetts iron grip, and not everyone is happy about it. One shareholder, Peter Flaherty, proposed separating the chairman and CEO roles at Berkshire. Flaherty on Saturday started to question whether Bill Gates would be a good custodian given his alleged relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, before the microphone was silenced. The investor was later arrested on charges of criminal trespassing. Berkshire security may be able to shut down such dissent at its own shareholder meeting, but it cant stifle the doubts about life after Buffett.

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CONTEXT NEWS

Billionaire Warren Buffett repeated at Berkshire Hathaways annual shareholder meeting on May 6 that Greg Abel, who oversees the companys energy operations, would follow him as CEO. Absent some extraordinary circumstance  hes going to succeed me, Buffett said.
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(Kitco News) - Brian Armstrong, the CEO of Coinbase  the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S.  has walked back statements that the exchange would consider moving to a more welcoming jurisdiction if the regulatory landscape in the U.S. didnt improve. However, he continued to criticize the Securities and Exchange Commissions (SEC) approach to reining in the crypto industry.

According to Armstrong, who spoke to CNBCs Dan Murphy on Monday, SEC chair Gary Gensler has adopted an oppositional approach to the crypto ecosystem and is focused on limiting it as opposed to developing meaningful regulations.

I dont think hes necessarily trying to regulate the industry as much as maybe curtail it, Armstrong said. But hes created some lawsuits, and I think its quite unhelpful for the industry in the U.S. writ large, but it also is an opportunity for Coinbase to go get that clarity from the courts that we feel will really benefit the crypto industry and also the U.S. more broadly.

The focus of Genslers campaign against the crypto industry centers around the classification of digital assets, virtually all of which the SEC Chair maintains are securities. Coming from this view, exchanges like Coinbase that offer investors access to these assets are selling unregistered securities, which falls squarely under the enforcement purview of the SEC.

The SEC is a bit of an outlier here, Armstrong said. Theres kind of a lone crusade, if you will, with Gary Gensler, the chair there, and he has taken a more anti-crypto view for some reason.

Deviating from his previous statements regarding the possibility of exiting the U.S. due to the hostile regulatory environment, Armstrong said that Coinbase remains dedicated to being the top-rated exchange for U.S. citizens and will not leave the country despite the ongoing regulatory uncertainty that the company is facing.

Coinbase is not going to relocate overseas, Armstrong said. Were always going to have a U.S. presence [...] But the U.S. is a little bit behind right now.

The Coinbase CEO highlighted the recent developments in the EU, which include the passage of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) law that lays out an EU-wide regulatory framework for digital assets, as evidence that the U.S. is losing ground.

I would say were seeing more thoughtful approaches, for instance, in the EU [European Union], theyve actually already passed comprehensive crypto legislation, the U.K. has been incredibly welcoming, and for us there, and thats been a hub where weve decided to serve the UK market, he said.

While the exchange remains dedicated to serving the U.S. public, it also plans to continue expanding its international investments, with Armstrong saying they are very interested in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a country to do more investment in.

Armstrong was actually doing the interview with CNBC from Dubai, where he and the Coinbase executive team were meeting with local representatives to discuss the potential for the UAE to become a strategic hub for the exchange.

[The UAE is] exciting for us as a potential hub to build as well, an international hub for Coinbase that could serve not only in the Middle East but parts of Africa or other countries in Asia, Armstrong said at the Dubai Fintech Summit on May 8. I think the U.S. right now is a little bit behind in terms of regulatory clarity and some of the rhetoric from the top.

According to a blog post about the trip, Coinbase is in talks with regulators in the Abu Dhabi Global Market and Dubais Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority as part of efforts to potentially expand into the region.

There is no doubt that UAE has the potential to be a strategic hub for Coinbase, amplifying our efforts across the world, the blog said. It further serves as a particularly strategic bridge between Asia and Europe - two of our existing focus international regions to date.

Aside from promising demographics, Coinbase is interested in the region due to the establishment and ongoing development of cryptocurrency regulation.

The regulations established in the UAE thus far have focused on four objectives: being business-friendly; protecting consumers; projecting the UAEs regional leadership as a center for the fourth industrial revolution; and ensuring that activities comply with Financial Action Task Force money laundering guidelines.

In short, the region is standing-out as a leader in the development of a web3 ecosystem, making it an attractive location to consider investing in, Coinbase wrote. The vacuum created by other notable jurisdictions means that international counterparts, such as the UAE, are racing to fill the regulatory gap.
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(Kitco News) - DRDGOLD (NYSE: DRD), a South African gold producer that recovers gold from the retreatment of surface tailings, announced today that for the quarter ended 31 March 2023, its gold production increased by 4% from the previous quarter to 1,329 kg (~43 kozt), primarily due to higher yield.

The company said that as a result of the increase in yield, cash operating costs per kilogram decreased marginally to R689,426/kg from R691,061/kg, adding that all-in sustaining cost (AISC) per kilogram was R790,471/kg, decreasing quarter-on-quarter (R844,697/kg) mainly due to a decrease in sustaining capital expenditure.

Importantly, the company noted that its adjusted EBITDA increased by 54% from the previous quarter to R488.5 million (~$27 million) primarily due to an increase in Rand gold price received.

DRDGOLD also reported that its cash and cash equivalents increased by R160.2 million to R2,552.4 million (~$140 million) after paying the interim cash dividend of R172.1 million for the six months ended 31 December 2022.

The company said it remains free of bank debt as at 31 March 2023 (31 December 2022: Rnil).

DRDGOLD comprises two subsidiaries: Ergo located some 50km east of Johannesburg in Brakpan; and Far West Gold Recoveries (FWGR) near Carletonville, west of Johannesburg.

Ergo is a surface gold retreatment operation which treats old slime dams and sand dumps to the south of Johannesburgs central business district as well as the East and Central Rand goldfields. FWGR is a surface gold retreatment operation and treats old slime dams in the West Rand goldfields.
Malawi President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera has asked multi-sectoral global leaders to consider investing in Malawi, promising his administration is committed to creating a conducive environment for private sector growth.

Chakwera made the sentiments in London, United Kingdom, on Friday ahead of the coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey on Saturday.

"Upon arrival in London ahead of the coronation event on Saturday, we have gone into networking with multi-sectoral global leadership through several key bilateral meetings. On Thursday I met Mr. Martin Davies, Head of Nuveen Natural Capital in London who has expressed interest to invest in Malawi's agricultural sector," said the President.

According to Chakwera, Nuveen Natural Capital's focus is on building capacity of Malawi's agriculture sector through best land management practices, mechanization, climate-smart technologies, and modern storage infrastructure.

The President said he was excited to learn that the company also intends to initiate a robust value addition revolution to transform the fortunes of our small scale farmers.

"Mr. Davies will visit Malawi to kick-start the processes of our long-term cooperation," he announced on his Facebook page.

And during his audience with the Prime Minister of the Republic of South Korea, Han Duck-soo, President Chakwera pleaded with Korea to provide additional support to Malawi as the country embarks on the recovery exercise.

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The Malawi's Head of State thanked Korea for the US$200,000 humanitarian assistance for Cyclone Freddy victims in Mulanje and Phalombe rendered through UNFPA.

Chakwera acknowledged that there was a similar package last year for victims of Tropical Storms Ana and Gombe.

However, he pleaded with the Prime Minister to support Malawi's post-Cyclone Freddy recovery and reconstruction program, which is pegged at US$700 million.

Other forms of assistance for which Chakwera also expressed gratefulness include a motor vehicle and IT equipment to Ministry of Foreign Affairs worth US$150,000, a US$200,000 package towards cholera fight and US$500,000 to the Daeyang Mission Hospital for the procurement of medicines, medical equipment and an ambulance.

In his remarks, Duck-soo pledged Seoul's solidarity and support to Malawi.
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(Kitco News) - Uranium developer Global Atomic (TSX: GLO) announced today that the company has formalized its June 2022 letter of intent by signing a definitive agreement with a major North American utility for their procurement of uranium from the Dasa project.

The company said the agreement represents the supply of up to 2.1 million pounds U3O8 within a multi-year delivery window beginning in 2025, representing about 7% of Dasas annual production over the period with a revenue potential valued in excess of US$110 million in real terms.

Global Atomic added that in January 2023, the company formalized a similar agreement with another major North American utility for the procurement of Dasas uranium, representing the supply of 2.4 million pounds U3O8 over a six-year period commencing in 2025, representing a revenue potential of US$140 million in real terms.

In total, these two agreements represent revenue potential of over US$250 million.

President and CEO Stephen G. Roman commented, These agreements to supply international electric utilities are important milestones for our company that provide confirmation to our banks, shareholders and the Government of Niger that we have established a guaranteed revenue stream for Dasa.

This quarter we are actively in discussions with other utilities for similar agreements with the pre-production intent of signing sufficient volume to cover Dasas cost of production.

Global Atomics uranium division includes four deposits with the flagship project being the large, high-grade Dasa project, discovered in 2010 by Global Atomic geologists through grassroots field exploration. The Dasa project is fully permitted for commercial production. The phase 1 feasibility study for Dasa was filed in December 2021 and estimates yellowcake delivery to utilities to commence in 2025. Mine excavation began in Q1 2022.

Global Atomics base metals division holds a 49% interest in the Befesa Silvermet Turkey, which operates a modern zinc production plant, located in Iskenderun, Turkiye. The plant recovers zinc from electric arc furnace dust to produce a high-grade zinc oxide concentrate which is sold to zinc smelters around the world.
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(Kitco News) - Lynas Rare Earths (ASX: LYC) licence to import and process lanthanide concentrate is now valid until 1 January 2024, according to a news release published by the company today.

The rare earths refinery, which is the largest outside of China, is located in Malaysia's Pahang state. The government in Malaysia has raised concerns about ratiation levels at the facility.

Lynas said that the licence variation allows the Lynas Malaysia cracking and leaching plant to continue to operate until 1 January 2024 and will remove the requirement for a shutdown at the Lynas Malaysia plant prior to 1 January 2024.

The news that the deadline was moved to the end of the year led to a jump in Lynas shares, up 12% to A$7.37.

"This change has been made by the Minister of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation

(MOSTI) in response to the appeals filed by Lynas under the Atomic Energy Licence Act 1984 (as announced on 16 and 24 February 2023). The MOSTI Minister has otherwise dismissed Lynas appeals," wrote the company.

"Malaysia offers legal avenues for the review of the licence conditions. Lynas has made significant investments in its Malaysian facility and will seek review through these processes in respect of the conditions to ensure that Lynas is treated fairly and equitably as a Foreign Direct Investor and as a significant employer and contributor to the Malaysian economy."
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(Kitco News) - Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the case brought by the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) against his company will end up costing them $200 million by the time its decided.

Speaking at the Dubai Fintech Summit on May 8, Garlinghouse offered a bleak assessment of the prospects for U.S. crypto firms in the current regulatory environment.

I find it, as a U.S. company that started in the United States, as someone who's a U.S. citizen, it's sad, he said. The U.S. is getting passed, not just a little bit, but by a lot. The tough thing about this is you have a country that I think has put politics ahead of policy, and that's not a good decision if you're trying to invest in the economy.

Garlinghouse said the United States is definitely stuck when compared with other jurisdictions that have been more welcoming of crypto firms and more proactive with digital assets legislation, pointing to the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) in the United Arab Emirates and the passage of Europes MiCA legislation as counterexamples.

By the time it's said and done, we will have spent 200 million dollars defending ourselves against a lawsuit which, from its very beginning, people were like, listen, this doesn't make a lot of sense, he said, referring to the suit which has dragged on since December 2020.

You have video footage of the chair of the SEC as a professor at MIT saying 75 of these digital assets are commodities, he said, referring to a video from one of Gary Genslers graduate lectures delivered before his appointment to the agency. Now he says they're all securities because he's the head of the SEC.

Garlinghouse had a harsh assessment of SEC chair Genslers motives regarding the Ripple lawsuit and the agencys actions against other crypto firms. He's seeking power, and he's putting power ahead of sound policy to grow an economy in the United States.

He added that blockchain technologies are being invested in by entrepreneurs outside the United States, with good reason, and that he encourages them to give his country a wide berth. If I were you, I would not start in the United States, he said. And I think there's a lot of U.S.-based companies, and even U.S. public companies, that would agree with that.

On Sept. 17, Ripple and the SEC filed two separate motions with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York asking Judge Analisa Torres to make a summary judgment on the case, which is a type of judgment delivered on the basis of statements and evidence without a full trial.

Summary judgment motions are typically filed when either party does not have a contention with the facts of the case and wants to avoid a long, drawn-out process.

The SEC lawsuit against Ripple alleges that its sale of XRP, which is the native token of Ripple Labs XRP Ledger, constitutes an offering of unregistered securities.

In the filing by the SEC, the securities watchdog asserted that Ripple does not deny that they offered and sold XRP for money, which meets the investment of money element of the Howey test and thus should be considered as the sale of a security.

In its counter-filing, Ripple argued that it had and has no contract at all with many XRP recipients and was not even involved with most XRP trading in the secondary market.

Ripple has also argued that the SEC has no jurisdiction over XRP since the token was sold on overseas exchanges, and also contends that XRP is not a security under the Howey test as its transfer does not involve an investment contract.

When asked in discovery, the SEC refused to identify a contractual basis for a single offer and sale of XRP. Thus, because the Securities Acts definition of an investment contract requires an underlying contract, the SEC has no case to take to trial, Ripple wrote in its motion.

The case is of great interest to cryptocurrency proponents as its outcome could dictate how the SEC classifies crypto assets moving forward. The regulator currently considers most crypto assets to be securities that must be registered under securities law. Garlinghouse said he is expecting a decision from the judge sometime in the next three to six months.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 82F. NNW winds at less than 5 mph, increasing to 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Showers this evening, becoming a steady rain overnight. Low 52F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
First Lady Jeannette Kagame has called for equitable access to health interventions in the fight against cervical cancer for member states of the Commonwealth, regardless of income classifications.

She was speaking at the Commonwealth spouses event, on May 5, organized on the sidelines of the coronation of Charles III and his wife, Camilla, as king and queen of the United Kingdom.

"Solidarity, community, common, wealth must and will prove themselves stronger than preventable diseases," Mrs. Kagame said.

With emphasis on figures that indicate that Rwanda has more than 50 percent women in leadership positions in ministries, and 61 percent in parliament, she explained the need to have women at the centre for growth.

"We acknowledge that having women in these highlevel, decision-making positions, allows for the full recognition of gender sensitive issues, where they were once overlooked, minimized, or simply misunderstood."

According to her, this has resulted in taking bold steps towards eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem, as early as 2030.

In 2011, Rwanda launched a national Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine programme targeting 12-year-old girls and it has covered 90 percent of them so far. For the past five years, 30 percent of eligible women were screened for cervical cancer.

In addition, the decentralization of treatment of precancerous lesions has allowed 92 percent of women in need to receive treatment at the level of primary health care facilities.

"All in all, while there is considerable room for growth, and a single cervical cancer fatality remains one too many in these modern times, there is cause for joy too, because of the progress secured thus far," the First Lady noted.

She highlighted that advocacy and expansion of awareness, combined with willingness to have such important conversations and drive the necessary campaigns, can be splendid catalysts of change in health responsiveness.

"We can visualize the fairest situation, for all of us - one in which all member states of our Commonwealth, benefit from equitable access to lifesaving screenings, medicine and vaccines, at the same rate as every other nation, regardless of income classifications."

She added that they owe the next generation an immediate and rapid action.
Children were among the 8 people killed at a Texas mall. As the Army reveals details about the gunman, a veteran demands more gun control
The Brownsville Fire Department shared a photo on Facebook of first responders arriving to the scene of a major accident that left at least seven dead on Sunday.
Rwanda and Maldives, on Friday, May 5, signed a deal that will see their citizens enjoy visa exemption when traveling to the two countries.

"Pleased to sign the Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption between Maldives and Rwanda. Look forward to increased people-to-people contact and bilateral cooperation between Maldives and Rwanda," tweeted Abdulla Shahid, Maldives' Minister of Foreign Affairs, after signing the agreement with his Rwandan counterpart, Vincent Biruta.

Pleased to sign the Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption between #Maldives and #Rwanda. Look forward to increased people-to-people contact and bilateral cooperation between Maldives and Rwanda. pic.twitter.com/6FEhaWbCF1-- Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) May 5, 2023

The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is an archipelagic state in South Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean. It lies southwest of Sri Lanka and India, about 750 kilometres from the Asian continent's mainland.

The country is famous for a number of reasons, including its pristine beaches, sprawling greenery, and fascinating landmarks which are major tourist attractions.

In the past few years, Rwanda has inked a number of deals to facilitate visa exemption between it and countries of the world. For instance, beginning January 1, 2018, travellers from across the world began receiving a 30-day visa upon arrival following the establishment of a new visa regime.

The move was subject to reciprocation by countries across the world further increasing Rwanda's access to other countries.

According to the 2023 Henley global mobility ranking, Rwandan citizens can travel to 61 global destinations visa free, making the country's passport the 83rd most powerful globally.

There are at least 27 countries to which Rwandan passport holders can travel visa-free while 34 others only require visa on arrival.
Nicolet Bankshares (NYSE:NIC  Get Rating) and Mizuho Financial Group (NYSE:MFG  Get Rating) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, profitability, risk, valuation, dividends and earnings.

Profitability

This table compares Nicolet Bankshares and Mizuho Financial Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Get Nicolet Bankshares alerts:

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Nicolet Bankshares 18.92% 10.53% 1.18% Mizuho Financial Group 9.72% 6.12% 0.23%

Risk & Volatility

Nicolet Bankshares has a beta of 0.7, suggesting that its share price is 30% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Mizuho Financial Group has a beta of 0.46, suggesting that its share price is 54% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

Analyst Ratings

37.4% of Nicolet Bankshares shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 0.5% of Mizuho Financial Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 18.1% of Nicolet Bankshares shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.0% of Mizuho Financial Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

This is a breakdown of recent ratings for Nicolet Bankshares and Mizuho Financial Group, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Nicolet Bankshares 0 0 0 0 N/A Mizuho Financial Group 0 1 2 0 2.67

Nicolet Bankshares presently has a consensus price target of $85.00, indicating a potential upside of 49.52%. Given Nicolet Bankshares higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe Nicolet Bankshares is more favorable than Mizuho Financial Group.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Nicolet Bankshares and Mizuho Financial Groups gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Nicolet Bankshares $263.26 million 3.18 $94.26 million $4.24 13.41 Mizuho Financial Group $35.30 billion 1.06 -$932.03 million $0.36 8.22

Nicolet Bankshares has higher earnings, but lower revenue than Mizuho Financial Group. Mizuho Financial Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Nicolet Bankshares, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Summary

Nicolet Bankshares beats Mizuho Financial Group on 11 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Nicolet Bankshares

(Get Rating)

Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of commercial and consumer banking services through its subsidiary. It offers lending and deposit gathering, ancillary banking-related, trust, brokerage, and other investment management products and services. The firm also delivers commercial-related and residential real estate loans. The company was founded by Robert Bruc Atwell and Michael Edward Daniels on April 5, 2000 and is headquartered in Green Bay, WI.

About Mizuho Financial Group

(Get Rating)

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. operates as a holding company which engages in the provision of financial services such as banking, trust banking, securities, and others. It operates through the following segments: Mizuho Bank Ltd. (MHKB), Mizuho Trust & Banking Co., Ltd. (MHTB), and Mizuho Securities Co., Ltd. (MHSC). The Mizuho Bank Ltd. segment includes personal, retail, corporate, international banking, financial institutions, public sector, and trading services. The Mizuho Trust & Banking Co., Ltd. provides services related to trust, real estate, securitization, structured finance, pension and asset management, and stock transfer agency. The Mizuho Securities Co., Ltd. offers security services to individuals, corporations, financial institutions and public sector entities. The company was founded in 1864 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

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New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $2.62-$2.72 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $2.70. The company issued revenue guidance of -. New Jersey Resources also updated its FY23 guidance to $2.62-2.72 EPS.

New Jersey Resources Price Performance

New Jersey Resources stock traded down $0.27 during midday trading on Friday, reaching $50.88. 627,576 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 547,820. The company has a market capitalization of $4.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.85, a P/E/G ratio of 3.16 and a beta of 0.65. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $52.29 and its 200-day simple moving average is $49.90. New Jersey Resources has a 1 year low of $38.07 and a 1 year high of $55.84. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.40, a quick ratio of 0.69 and a current ratio of 0.95.

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New Jersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $1.16 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.20 by ($0.04). The company had revenue of $644.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $954.32 million. New Jersey Resources had a return on equity of 14.54% and a net margin of 10.94%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 29.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.36 EPS. On average, analysts anticipate that New Jersey Resources will post 2.7 EPS for the current year.

New Jersey Resources Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 3rd. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, June 14th will be issued a $0.39 dividend. This represents a $1.56 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.07%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, June 13th. New Jersey Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 51.66%.

Several analysts have commented on NJR shares. Mizuho lifted their price target on New Jersey Resources from $46.00 to $51.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. StockNews.com cut New Jersey Resources from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Friday. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their target price on New Jersey Resources from $51.00 to $50.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, January 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on New Jersey Resources from $40.00 to $46.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Monday, January 9th. Finally, Guggenheim boosted their target price on New Jersey Resources from $46.00 to $47.00 in a report on Monday, April 24th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and two have given a hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, New Jersey Resources currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $48.50.

Insider Transactions at New Jersey Resources

In related news, COO Patrick J. Migliaccio sold 2,040 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $51.00, for a total transaction of $104,040.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 38,129 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,944,579. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.72% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On New Jersey Resources

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. raised its position in shares of New Jersey Resources by 71.2% in the 4th quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 914 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $45,000 after purchasing an additional 380 shares in the last quarter. Alps Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of New Jersey Resources in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $216,000. Bridgefront Capital LLC acquired a new position in shares of New Jersey Resources in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $264,000. Baird Financial Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of New Jersey Resources in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $286,000. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp raised its position in shares of New Jersey Resources by 19.9% in the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 6,248 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $287,000 after purchasing an additional 1,036 shares in the last quarter. 74.09% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

New Jersey Resources Company Profile

(Get Rating)

New Jersey Resources Corp. is a holding company. The firm provides safe and reliable natural gas and clean energy services, including transportation, distribution, asset management and home services. It operates through the following segments: Natural Gas Distribution, Clean Energy Ventures, Energy Services, Storage and Transportation, and Home Services and Other.

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Citigroup upgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft (NYSE:DB  Get Rating) from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report sent to investors on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

A number of other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on DB. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Bank of America downgraded shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft from a neutral rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $13.00.

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Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE DB opened at $10.67 on Thursday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft has a 12 month low of $7.24 and a 12 month high of $13.57. The company has a market cap of $22.05 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.25, a P/E/G ratio of 0.67 and a beta of 1.33. The businesss 50 day moving average is $10.80 and its two-hundred day moving average is $11.15. The company has a quick ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82.

Institutional Trading of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft ( NYSE:DB Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The bank reported $0.35 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.23 by $0.12. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft had a return on equity of 5.09% and a net margin of 11.05%. The firm had revenue of $6.45 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.84 billion. On average, equities analysts expect that Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft will post 1.94 EPS for the current year.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Spire Wealth Management increased its stake in shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 66.7% in the 4th quarter. Spire Wealth Management now owns 2,500 shares of the banks stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 550.0% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 3,588 shares of the banks stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 3,036 shares during the period. Finally, CWM LLC raised its stake in Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft by 150.0% in the 4th quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,750 shares of the banks stock valued at $43,000 after acquiring an additional 2,250 shares during the period. 24.67% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Deutsche Bank AG engages in the provision of corporate banking and investment services. It operates through the following segments: Corporate Bank, Investment Bank, Private Bank, Asset Management, Capital Release Unit, and Corporate and Other. The Corporate Bank segment includes the global transaction bank as well as the German commercial clients division.

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Equinox Gold (CVE:EQX  Get Rating) had its target price decreased by Desjardins from C$6.50 to C$6.25 in a report released on Friday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

Other equities research analysts have also issued reports about the stock. National Bank Financial raised their price objective on shares of Equinox Gold from C$7.25 to C$9.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Cormark boosted their price target on shares of Equinox Gold from C$5.75 to C$7.50 in a research note on Thursday, March 30th. TD Securities reduced their price objective on shares of Equinox Gold from C$8.00 to C$7.50 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, February 23rd. CIBC increased their price objective on Equinox Gold from C$4.70 to C$5.40 in a research report on Thursday, March 30th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of Equinox Gold from C$6.50 to C$7.50 in a research report on Thursday, January 26th.

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Equinox Gold Stock Performance

Shares of EQX stock opened at C$7.88 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of C$892.46 million and a P/E ratio of -43.54. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$7.88 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$7.88. The company has a current ratio of 1.94, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 64.28. Equinox Gold has a 12-month low of C$4.25 and a 12-month high of C$8.90.

Insider Activity at Equinox Gold

About Equinox Gold

In other news, Senior Officer Doug Reddy sold 6,351 shares of Equinox Gold stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$7.03, for a total value of C$44,647.53. In other Equinox Gold news, Senior Officer Doug Reddy sold 6,351 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$7.03, for a total value of C$44,647.53. Also, Senior Officer Sebastian Damici sold 5,216 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$5.15, for a total transaction of C$26,862.40.

(Get Rating)

Equinox Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral deposits. The company's principal properties include the Aurizona project covering a total land package of approximately 223,160 hectares located in Maranhao State, Brazil; and the Castle Mountain property situated in California, the United States.

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iShares Convertible Bond ETF (BATS:ICVT  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $71.46 and last traded at $71.71, with a volume of 67550 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $71.38.

iShares Convertible Bond ETF Price Performance

The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $71.78 and a 200 day simple moving average of $71.56.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF during the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Heritage Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in iShares Convertible Bond ETF by 116.5% during the 4th quarter. Heritage Wealth Management LLC now owns 524 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 282 shares during the period. Psagot Value Holdings Ltd. Israel purchased a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at about $38,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $40,000. Finally, CFS Investment Advisory Services LLC raised its position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF by 4,530.3% during the 3rd quarter. CFS Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 2,803,954 shares of the companys stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 2,743,397 shares in the last quarter.

About iShares Convertible Bond ETF

The iShares Convertible Bond ETF (ICVT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in broad credit fixed income. The fund tracks an index of USD-denominated convertible bonds weighted by market value. The index contains only cash-pay convertibles and excludes mandatory and preferred convertibles.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (BATS:EFG  Get Rating)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $96.58 and last traded at $96.44, with a volume of 590404 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $96.43.

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Stock Up 0.0 %

The company has a market cap of $11.88 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.69 and a beta of 0.87. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $92.31 and its 200 day moving average price is $88.15.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of EFG. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF by 11.9% during the first quarter. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 2,254 shares of the companys stock worth $217,000 after acquiring an additional 240 shares during the period. Synovus Financial Corp increased its position in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF by 34.0% during the first quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 10,468 shares of the companys stock worth $1,007,000 after acquiring an additional 2,657 shares during the period. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF by 5.9% during the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 4,076 shares of the companys stock worth $392,000 after buying an additional 228 shares in the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF by 81.0% during the first quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 5,319 shares of the companys stock worth $512,000 after buying an additional 2,381 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Interchange Capital Partners LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the first quarter worth $266,000.

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Company Profile

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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William Blair reiterated their outperform rating on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL  Get Rating) in a research note issued to investors on Thursday, PriceTargets.com reports.

A number of other equities research analysts have also weighed in on RCL. UBS Group boosted their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $82.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 23rd. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $86.00 to $90.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 8th. Barclays upped their price target on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $88.00 to $100.00 in a report on Friday. Susquehanna upped their price target on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $80.00 to $85.00 in a report on Friday. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. started coverage on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in a report on Friday, April 28th. They set an overweight rating and a $94.00 price target for the company. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $82.77.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises Trading Up 5.2 %

Shares of RCL opened at $75.61 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $19.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -18.58 and a beta of 2.43. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.41, a quick ratio of 0.35 and a current ratio of 0.26. Royal Caribbean Cruises has a fifty-two week low of $31.09 and a fifty-two week high of $76.30. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $65.14 and a 200-day moving average price of $61.40.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Royal Caribbean Cruises ( NYSE:RCL Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported ($0.23) earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.71) by $0.48. The firm had revenue of $2.89 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.82 billion. Royal Caribbean Cruises had a negative net margin of 9.72% and a negative return on equity of 25.86%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 172.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted ($4.57) EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Royal Caribbean Cruises will post 4.8 earnings per share for the current year.

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Assetmark Inc. increased its position in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 22.6% during the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 28,963 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,891,000 after purchasing an additional 5,338 shares during the period. Monashee Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in the 1st quarter worth about $4,244,000. Segantii Capital Management Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in the 1st quarter worth about $13,060,000. Commerce Bank grew its position in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 17.5% in the 1st quarter. Commerce Bank now owns 23,286 shares of the companys stock worth $1,521,000 after buying an additional 3,476 shares during the period. Finally, Treasurer of the State of North Carolina grew its position in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 99,391 shares of the companys stock worth $6,490,000 after buying an additional 650 shares during the period. 74.27% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Royal Caribbean Group is a cruise company, which engages in the ownership and operation of the following global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. The firm also holds interest in TUI Cruises GmbH, which operates the German brands TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

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Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLC grew its stake in shares of Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA  Get Rating) by 19.8% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,148 shares of the credit services providers stock after purchasing an additional 190 shares during the quarter. Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLCs holdings in Mastercard were worth $399,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in MA. Global Wealth Strategies & Associates acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 4th quarter valued at $25,000. EWG Elevate Inc. acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Legend Financial Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 3rd quarter valued at $28,000. My Personal CFO LLC acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 4th quarter valued at $29,000. Finally, RFP Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in Mastercard in the 4th quarter valued at $39,000. 74.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Mastercard Stock Up 0.2 %

Shares of NYSE:MA traded up $0.62 during trading on Monday, hitting $385.28. The stock had a trading volume of 1,085,444 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,746,641. Mastercard Incorporated has a 12 month low of $276.87 and a 12 month high of $390.00. The company has a market capitalization of $365.19 billion, a PE ratio of 38.43, a PEG ratio of 1.79 and a beta of 1.11. The firms fifty day moving average is $362.66 and its 200 day moving average is $355.46. The company has a quick ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.84.

Mastercard Dividend Announcement

Mastercard ( NYSE:MA Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The credit services provider reported $2.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.71 by $0.09. Mastercard had a return on equity of 169.12% and a net margin of 42.33%. The firm had revenue of $5.75 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.64 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.76 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 11.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that Mastercard Incorporated will post 12.26 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, May 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 7th will be given a $0.57 dividend. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.59%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, April 5th. Mastercards dividend payout ratio is currently 22.78%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently weighed in on MA. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on Mastercard from $414.00 to $442.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Raymond James upped their price objective on Mastercard from $450.00 to $453.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on Mastercard from $392.00 to $404.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on Mastercard from $438.00 to $440.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group upped their price objective on Mastercard from $390.00 to $400.00 in a research report on Friday, April 28th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and twenty have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Mastercard has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $418.85.

Insider Transactions at Mastercard

In related news, insider Hai Ling sold 8,220 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $356.31, for a total transaction of $2,928,868.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 26,496 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,440,789.76. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, insider Hai Ling sold 8,220 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $356.31, for a total transaction of $2,928,868.20. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 26,496 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,440,789.76. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, major shareholder Foundation Mastercard sold 172,548 shares of Mastercard stock in a transaction on Friday, February 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $365.62, for a total value of $63,086,999.76. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 100,908,187 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $36,894,051,330.94. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 380,733 shares of company stock valued at $140,704,056. Corporate insiders own 0.29% of the companys stock.

Mastercard Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Mastercard, Inc is a technology company, which engages in the payments industry that connects consumers, financial institutions, merchants, governments, and business. It offers payment solutions for the development and implementation of credit, debit, prepaid, commercial, and payment programs. The company was founded in November 1966 and is headquartered in Purchase, NY.

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Nairobi  President William Ruto is among the world leaders attending the coronation of Charles III, who is set to be crowned King on Saturday in London, United Kingdom.

President Ruto is attending the historic event at Westminster Abbey as a courtesy of the King's invitation.

State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed confirmed that President Ruto flew out of the country on Friday to attend the solemn Christian ceremony, which is steeped in 1,000 years of history and tradition.

"At the invitation of the King, President Ruto will attend the historic event to be held at Westminster Abbey and presided over by the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby," Mohamed said.

The coronation -- the first of a king since 1937, only the second to be televised and the first in color and streamed online -- is the religious confirmation of Charles's accession.

Charles, 74, has been king since the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 after seven decades as her heir apparent.

St Edward's Crown -- a solid gold, sacred symbol of the monarch's authority used only once in their reign -- will be placed on Charles's head at 2.00 p.m to cries of "God Save the King".

-Ruto other visits-

Following the coronation, President Ruto is scheduled to visit The Netherlands on Sunday for a series of bilateral meetings, including a meeting with His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, the King of the Netherlands.

"During the visit, Kenya and the Netherlands will explore new areas of cooperation and strengthen existing partnerships between the two countries in critical areas such as trade and investment, development cooperation, and multilateral fora," Mohamed said.

President Ruto will, thereafter, embark on a two-day State visit to Israel at the invitation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Mohamed revealed that during this visit "the two leaders will hold high-level bilateral meetings and discuss areas of mutual interest, including technology and innovation, manufacturing, agriculture, and defense cooperation".

The President is scheduled to tour various agricultural projects in the Middle East country known for its remarkable achievements in irrigation. Besides, he will hold a meeting with the Israeli business community to present investment opportunities and seek their partnership in Kenya.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has announced plans to partner with the Rwanda Association of Midwives (RAM) to set up the country's first-ever midwifery center of excellence.

The announcement was made by UNFPA Country Representative, Kwabena Asante-Ntiamoah, on Friday May 5, during celebrations to observe the International Day of the Midwife.

Asante-Ntiamoah told the midwives and other health sector stakeholders that the center is part of UNFPA's plan to encourage the Rwanda Association of Midwives (RAM) to think big and to look at the bigger picture.

"The government has a vision to build a middle and later, high income country within a certain period. This means that midwives have a role to play. Is this going to make us dream big? Are we going to look at the big picture? UNFPA is planning to work with RAM in the coming years. We want to create a midwifery center of excellence and that's where we are going to put our focus," he said.

He noted that the plan to create the midwifery center of excellence will require combined efforts from all the stakeholders within the country's health sector.

He pledged UNFPA's support to midwives in key focus areas including strengthening competency-based midwifery training; raising midwives' voices through strengthening midwifery associations; and improved service delivery.

Critical need of midwives

The Chief Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Theophile Dushime, commended the midwives for their contribution to improving the country's indicators in relation to neonatal and mortality rates.

Dushime called for more collaboration with senior midwives, development partners and civil society organisation in support of the midwifery profession especially in the skills enhancement and service delivery areas. He said that although there is a general shortage of health professionals, the challenge is worse in the midwifery department.

"There is one or two midwives at each health center, but we must significantly improve this number if we want to deliver better quality services. The government has committed its support to the health sector, and we are counting on our stakeholders like yourselves to achieve these targets in coming years," he said.

The President of Rwanda Midwives Association, Josephine Murekezi, said that midwives not only support pregnant women to make informed decisions that enable positive outcomes for themselves and their babies, but are also lending their knowledge to education related institutions of learning.

"We are proud to share the knowledge. We have had many sessions with education institutions where we supported them to add some topics in the school curriculum. Today, methods on helping mothers and babies to survive is among the topics in the curriculum," she said.

Murekezi said that as a result, this topic was added among the credits that midwives need to renew their licenses. She appealed to the midwives to ensure professionalism in their work, follow the code of ethics and to be open to continuous learning.

"The more you learn, the fewer mistakes you are likely to make. As midwives, this helps us to refresh the knowledge that we have. Remember that no woman should die while giving life but sometimes matters are out of our hands. However, where we are able to ensure positive outcomes, let's be focused on excellent service delivery," she said.

The Executive Director of Health Development Initiative (HDI), Dr. Aflodis Kagaba, noted that midwives are often seen as advocates for women's health and well-being and are a critical component of the healthcare system.

Besides being trained to identify and manage complications during pregnancy and childbirth, he said, their work is crucial in ensuring that the people they serve are provided with the right information, support, and guidance to make informed decisions for safe and positive birth experiences.

"Different studies have associated midwifery care with lower rates of caesarean sections, preterm birth, and infant mortality. By providing access to quality maternal health care, midwives greatly contribute to the deduction of preventable pregnancy and childbirth deaths. There is no doubt that midwives' community and healthy system-advocacy is essential," he said.

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About the midwifery centers of excellence

Although Asante-Ntiamoah did not go into details about the planned midwifery center of excellence, such centers are commended for addressing shortages of skilled midwives, particularly in rural areas.

The center can serve as a hub for training new midwives while providing ongoing support and education to practicing midwives.

A midwifery center may also conduct research to generate new evidence and improve the quality of care provided to women and infants.

Such research can include clinical trials, observational studies, and quality improvement initiatives to identify best practices, develop new interventions, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing interventions.

The International Day of the Midwife celebrations were preceded by a Scientific Conference in which midwives discussed best practices, challenges, as well as received orientation from seniors who gave them refresher lessons on various aspects of midwifery.
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Tourism revenues rose by 171.3 per cent from $164 million in 2021 to $445 million (about Rwf496 billion) recorded in 2022, according to the 2022 annual report by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

This growth represents a remarkable 89.3 per cent recovery compared to pre-Covid-19 pandemic period, indicated the report published on RDB's website on May 3. The growth in tourism revenue is also above the earlier projected revenues ($350 million) of 2022.

"This substantial increase can be attributed to the global lifting of Covid-19 induced travel restrictions, and increased connectivity by RwandAir, as well as other airlines, specifically to and from Kigali International Airport," the report reads in part.

Rwanda's tourism revenues amounted to $498 million in 2019 - before Covid-19 hit in March 2020 but plunged to $121 million in 2020 as per RDB data, which implies a reduction of more than 300 per cent or three times.

As noted, the country's tourism sector faced a very challenging year (2020) as global tourism and travel fell sharply in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic.

According to the report, in 2022, Rwanda welcomed a total of more than 1.1 million international visitors. Of these, the report showed, more than 60 per cent came from African countries, highlighting the country's growing popularity as a destination within the continent.

Furthermore, 47.5 per cent of the visitors came for business purposes, reflecting Rwanda's positioning as a hub for business activities, it added.

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"The path to economic recovery is well on course. In 2022, I am delighted to report that we continued to make significant progress in our efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth, despite the global challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic," RDB CEO, Clare Akamanzi, said in her foreword in the report, adding "our achievements in the tourism sector were satisfactory."

"The national parks attracted 109,800 tourists, an increase of 142.4 per cent from 2021. Gorilla tourism, which drives high-end tourism in Rwanda, generated revenues of $113 million, exceeding the performance in 2019 by 6 per cent," Akamanzi observed.

The report indicated that in 2022, great strides were achieved in conservation, further cementing Rwanda's efforts and commitment to promoting environment protection, natural resource management and climate change preparedness, as key economic assets.

These include the operationalisation of the country's fourth national park - the Gishwati-Mukura National Park - onboarding the World Bank as new partner for the Volcanoes National Park expansion project, and the inauguration of the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

Also, RDB and Mandai Park Development, a private company in Singapore, signed a partnership agreement to establish the Nyungwe Experience at Mandai Park. This project will highlight Rwanda's eco-luxury tourism offerings and draw visitors from Singapore and around the globe to Rwanda.
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 8 (ANI/NewsVoir): Vanguard Hedge Fund, a subsidiary of the renowned financial consultants Vanguard United Investment Consulting, has expanded its operations to India this year. The firm focuses on long-term investment plans in stocks of international corporations that operate in all 5 continents and currently manages global portfolios worth more than 14,000 crores. In India, Vanguard Hedge Fund aims to invest 640 crores to help Indian companies raise over 16,000 crores in funds from investors based in the European Union and United States.

Founder George Kobiashvili believes that the Indian market has tremendous potential and deserves much more FDI to maintain its pace of growth. Reducing this gap is an important mission for Vanguard Hedge Fund, as the firm hopes to establish and grow its operations in the country.

Also Read | 2018 Movie Review: Jude Anthany Josephs Film Celebrates Humanity in the Face of Tragedy; Tovino Thomas, Asif Ali, Lal Shine In Their Roles (LatestLY Exclusive).

Vanguard Hedge Fund comprises a team of experts and experienced professionals who specialise in helping companies secure capital from investors across the world, particularly from USA and UK. Their services are designed to help clients raise the funds they need to fuel their growth and achieve their business goals. Last year, the firm's investments exceeded 1 Billion USD, and is currently valued at 1.7 Billion USD. In 2021, Vanguard Hedge Fund opened satellite branches in New York and Amsterdam. The expansion to Mumbai is part of their global growth plan.

"The Indian market has incredible potential and is also not very saturated at this point in time. There is a massive scope for foreign financial institutions to help Indian companies and start-ups raise capital from global investors. That is why we think this is a great time for Vanguard Hedge Fund to expand to India. Our office is set up in the heart of BKC, and we are excited to work with diverse firms to help them secure funds that will fuel their growth!" says George Kobiashvili, CIO and President Economist, Vanguard Hedge Fund.

Also Read | Bastille Day 2023 Date, History, Significance & Celebrations: Everything To Know About French National Day.

We are a Financial Consultancy for Capital Fundraising from the USA and UK. Vanguard United Investment Consulting is a team of experienced professionals who specialise in helping companies secure capital from investors based in the United States and the United Kingdom. Our services are designed to help our clients raise the funds they need to fuel their growth and achieve their business goals.

This story has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari has given the Benin Bronzes restituted by Germany to Oba Ewuare II, the head of Benin's former royal family. Germany stands by the decision to restitute the sculptures."It was wrong to take them, and it was wrong to keep them," Germany's Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said while visiting Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, on December 20, 2022.

Also Read | India News | West Bengal Becomes First State to Ban The Kerala Story, Makers to Seek Legal Options.

Baerbock, along with Germany's Commissioner for Culture and the Media, Claudia Roth, made the visit to return the first of 20 Benin Bronzes which were once looted from the west African region.

Also Read | India News | Farmer Found Dead in Rajasthans Jhalawar.

The artworks had been in Germany for 125 years, along with around 1,100 looted artifacts from the palace of the former kingdom of Benin, which is now in present-day Nigeria.

The objects made of bronze, ivory and other precious materials, are among the most important works of art on the African continent. Most of them were stolen by British colonialists around the year 1897.

Yet recent developments have some wondering if the Nigerian public will ever be able to view the returned bronzes in a museum  and if it even matters.

Giving the bronzes back to royalty

Several African and international media have reported that Nigeria's outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari has since transferred the bronzes to Oba Ewuare II, the current head of the former royal family of the Benin Empire.

A presidential decree was issued on March 23 stating the artworks, and subsequently returned works, will be given to Oba Ewuare II. Some worry that it could change plans for the returned artworks to be housed in institutions like the Edo Museum of West African Art, which will be opened in stages starting in 2024.

In Germany, the handover was given extra attention when Swiss scholar Brigitta Hauser-Schaublin wrote an opinion piece for the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper in which she questioned the decision. "Was that the point of restitution?" Hauser-Schaublin wrote, also calling it a "fiasco." The scholar criticized the German government for making an agreement with Nigerian authorities that was too "lightly formulated."

On March 23, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari announced that all restated artworks from the former kingdom of Benin would be given to the Oba of Benin, who is by right the original owner and custodian of the culture, heritage and tradition of the former Kingdom of Benin. This applies "both to artifacts that have already been returned and to those that have not yet been returned" according to Buhari. What Ewuare II does with the items is his decision.

The artworks could therefore be exhibited in his private palace museum, making it unclear whether they would ever be on display to the Nigerian public. It's also unclear whether or Ewuare II could sell the works to collectors.

German government and Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation agree

The German government, however, does not question the restitution of the artworks, regardless of where they end up. "The right thing to do is still to return looted art to the places that today represent the people and culture from which this art was once stolen," a spokesman for State Minister of Culture Claudia Roth told German news agency dpa on May 7. Roth said she would work with the German Foreign Office to better understand what the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari's decision means for future restitutions. "To this end, we want to hold talks with the new Nigerian government as soon as it is in office," Roth's spokesperson said.

Germany's Foreign Office expressed a similar sentiment: "Whoever will receive the returned bronzes, which Nigerian institutions and persons will be involved, and where the responsibility for preservation and accessibility lies, are questions that will be decided in Nigeria," it said in Berlin on Sunday. "There were no conditions attached to the return of the bronzes to Nigeria."

The process "does not call into question the transfer of ownership back to Nigeria," Hermann Parzinger, president of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, said. It was "based on the fact that it was a case of violent looting  this context of injustice was always undisputed," Parzinger told dpa. He stressed Nigeria's autonomy, adding that the government was "of course free to decide how to deal with these objects."

Not a surprising handover

It's also not the first time artifacts have been handed over to the Oba of Benin. In early 2022, the Nigerian president gave Ewuare II two artifacts returned by England.

"This restitution stands for the recognition of the injustice of a colonial past that has made looted property its own," Claudia Roth, Minister of State for Culture said in an interview with DW. The restitution would hopefully also close open wounds, "because we are also giving back to some extent the cultural identity that we stole."

As for whether or not the Nigerian public would see the Benin Bronzes, Hermann Parzinger of the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation was optimistic, saying that he had no doubt that the works would be available to the public in a museum. In addition, a third of the artifacts currently in Germany's collection would be on long-term loan to the Humboldt Forum in Berlin.

This article was originally written in German.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 08, 2023 06:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne wrapped up the much-anticipated shooting of the first film out of four films under the My Melbourne project.

The film, which is yet to be named, is co-directed by Onir and William Duan. The film stars Arka Das, Mouli Ganguli, and Jackson Gallagher. It was shot in five days and the story is based on grief and forgiveness. The film follows the reunion of a queer Indian man, Indraneel, played by Arka, and his father, Mihir, played by Mouli, after many years of estrangement. Ayushmann Khurrana to Be Felicitated at His Alma Mater Panjab University in Chandigarh.

Sharing more details about the project, Onir said, "I am happy to be part of My Melbourne as it is a unique special film. It's the first time such a unique cross-country initiative has been taken to bridge cultural ties and bring the two communities together using the medium of cinema. The films of My Melbourne are based on diversity and are focused on bringing forth talent locally from Melbourne and I can vouch that there are such incredible local talents waiting to be discovered and this project has done just that. My film tells one such story of an integral part of diversity, bringing forth a warm story of a father trying to rebond with his gay son. It was a great experience to work and collaborate with talent from Melbourne. I am glad that Film Victoria and Mitu Bhowmick Lange have taken this step to celebrate cinema and diversity." Shah Rukh Khan Car Collection: From BMWs, Audi to the Recently Added Rolls Royce, Here's King Khan's Entire Car Collection.

Mitu Bhowmik Lange, director of the festival, added, "This is a very ambitious project of love celebrating the core values of IFFM - Diversity and inclusivity. The key idea was to provide a platform to emerging creatives from diverse marginalised backgrounds from various walks and abilities of Australia, mentored by some of the world's best filmmakers. It's an anthology of four stories weaved into one feature film called My Melbourne based on authentic migrant experiences. We cannot be what we cannot see "

My Melbourne project brings four iconic filmmakers from India to mentor young filmmakers from Australia, which will be shot in Melbourne, will be on the themes of Diversity - Race, Disability, Sexuality and Gender. Apart from Onir, the other three films will be helmed by Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali and Rima Das.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Exhumation of bodies of victims of cult leader, Paul McKenzie Nthenge, at the Shakhahola massacre scene in Kilifi.

Malindi  When Roseline Asena's younger brother quit drinking after joining a Kenyan church run by now notorious cult leader Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, she hailed the self-proclaimed pastor for "saving" him from the clutches of alcoholism.

Little did she imagine that two decades later, Kevin Sudi Asena would be charged with murder and accused of working with Mackenzie to starve scores of followers, including his own wife and children -- the youngest only a year old.

"My heart sank, and I felt afraid," the 43-year-old mother of three told AFP, her voice tinged with despair, as she described the moment when she saw her brother in handcuffs on television.

The 41-year-old is among 16 suspects accused of operating an armed -- and apparently well-fed -- "enforcer gang" tasked with ensuring that no one broke their fast or left their forest hideout alive, investigators said, with more than 100 bodies already exhumed from mass graves in the bush.

Autopsies carried out on 100 bodies found in the coastal Shakahola forest have found that while starvation appeared to be the main cause of death, some of the victims -- including children -- were strangled, beaten, or suffocated.

The gruesome saga, dubbed the "Shakahola Forest Massacre", has shocked Kenyans, including Asena, who has since launched a desperate search for her five nieces and nephews.

"I don't know what happened to my brother. I am very heartbroken."

- 'Already crazy' -

The family first realised that all was not right with Mackenzie's Good News International Church when the zealot began urging parents to remove their children from school, claiming that the Bible did not approve of education.

Other sermons preached against the use of mobile money, visits to medical facilities, vaccinations and women wearing wigs.

In lush Vihiga county in western Kenya, where the Asena clan lived, family members launched a frantic effort to convince the former mechanic to abandon the church.

Yet, even as Mackenzie's activities drew the attention of the authorities who briefly arrested him on charges of "radicalisation" in 2017, Asena's brother refused to walk away from the church.

In 2019, when the preacher closed his church and asked his followers to come to the sleepy town of Shakahola, 700 kilometres (450 miles) from Vihiga, the father of five immediately complied.

"He woke up and said he does not want his land and house, that he is going to Jesus," Asena said.

"When he left, he was already crazy."

But nothing could have prepared them for what was to come.

In February, Asena's 63-year-old mother took a phone call from her son who told her he was on his way to "meet God" in Golgotha, the Biblical site outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified.

Two months later, when police uncovered mass graves outside the coastal town of Malindi, their worst fears were confirmed.

- 'Not remorseful' -

Asena's sister-in-law, who gave birth in the wilderness to their youngest child, a baby boy named Syla, was rescued by emergency workers and is receiving counselling.

Her husband and the other suspected enforcers "appeared well nourished as opposed to the severely malnourished victims", according to court documents seen by AFP.

No one knows if their children are alive.

"I went to the rescue centre looking for even one child. I found nothing," Asena said.

With many of the exhumed bodies yet to be identified, she has no idea if her nephews and nieces are among the corpses.

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Some of the rescued cult members advised her to focus her search on the eldest child, 15-year-old Sheila, who used to sneak out and risk beatings to drink puddle water in a bid to survive.

Asena even approached her brother for help in finding his children but the effort proved futile, she said, adding that she was unable to recognise the man she met.

"He is not remorseful," she said, describing his demeanour as confident.

"He told me there is no case and that authorities have no evidence."

He had even changed his name to Alfred Asena, she said, suggesting that some of Mackenzie's followers were re-baptised with new names.

With each day, the family's hopes of finding Sheila -- or any of the other children -- alive are fading.

"Our mother is broken," Asena said.

"It looks like that entire generation of children has been wiped out."
The Kerala Story producer Vipul Shah on Monday said they will take legal action against the ban imposed by the West Bengal government on the screening of the film in the state. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial movie to avoid "any incident of hatred and violence". "If that's what she has done, then we will again take legal action. Whatever is possible under the provisions of the law, we will fight that," Shah said at a press conference when asked about the ban in West Bengal. The Kerala Story Banned in West Bengal: Producer Vipul Shah Warns Legal Action Against Mamta Banerjee Government (Watch Video).

The Kerala High Court had refused to stay the release and said the trailer does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. It noted that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition. The Kerala Story, which depicts the plight of a group of women in Kerala who are forced to convert and join the ISIS, has kicked up a political storm. While many BJP leaders have spoken in its favour, Kerala's ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress have said the film falsely claims that 32,000 women got converted and radicalised and were deployed in terror missions both in India and the world. The Kerala Story Banned in West Bengal: TMC Government Bans Adah Sharmas Film To Avoid Incident of Hatred and Violence, Says CM Mamata Banerjee.

The film's director Sudipto Sen and Shah had called the press conference after several theatres apparently declined to screen the movie in Tamil Nadu fearing protests. Asked about the losses it may face due to the ban, Shah said, "We will not talk about profit or loss now, we will only try to ensure that more and more people watch the film. If a state government or a private person will try to stop the film, then we will try every legal route possible." Producer Shah called The Kerala Story a film on a "serious social subject" and requested the Tamil Nadu government to ensure a "smooth and fair" release of the movie.

"In Tamil Nadu, one individual has threatened and forced the government to stop the release," he said without naming anyone.

"I'm requesting the government ensure that the film is released since the honourable court has already given the order. It is the state government's duty to ensure a smooth and fair release of the film. Let people decide whether they want to see it. But this is a completely unacceptable situation," he added.

On April 6, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) staged a protest against the release of the film in Chennai. Seeman, the party's coordinator, who is also actor and director, along with NTK cadres, had protested near Anna Nagar Arch. The film has earned Rs 35 crore in its opening weekend and Shah said there has been a 20 to 30 percent jump in numbers on Monday.

In a rally in Ballari in poll-bound Karnataka on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced the movie in his speech, Such a beautiful state of the country, where people are hardworking and talented. The Kerala Story film brings out terror conspiracies happening in that state." Shah said the film has become of national importance now. "Our honourable PM has spoken about this film. Other important political parties have talked about the film and have presented this subject as something of national importance. There are some people who have supported and some have opposed. Now no one can ignore it on the national level, which is a huge achievement for us," he added.

The filmmaker said people would have rejected the film if it was a propaganda movie. "It is running successfully in Kerala and next Wednesday or Thursday, we will dub the film in Malayalam. We are trying that. We haven't faced any issues in Kerala, which is why this is so surprising that people have seen the film and appreciated it in Kerala but in Tamil Nadu, one person has held hostage the state and its government," he added. The Indian Film & Television Directors' Association on Monday condemned West Bengal's decision to ban the movie in the state. "IFTDA condemns the ban on Vipul Shah's film 'The Kerala Story' by the Bengal government. We strongly feel that it's against the freedom of expression of a filmmaker. We stand by the filmmaker and his film exactly the way we stood by films like Udta Punjab and Padmaavat," the film body said in a statement.

(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, May 8 (PTI) The excise policy case is a desperate attempt by the BJP to "malign an honest party like the AAP", Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

His remarks came two days after a Delhi court granted bail to two accused in a money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22.

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The court said the evidence against the accused, Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra, was not sufficient for the case against them to be considered prima facie "genuine".

Meanwhile, the Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party accused Kejriwal of trying to divert attention from the renovation "scam" involving his bungalow, by hoisting the issue of bail granted to two accused in the excise policy case.

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With the court repeatedly denying bail to Manish Sisodia and "loss of public image" due to the "bungalow scam", Kejriwal is trying to create a perception that there is no liquor scam, said Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva.

Kejriwal also took to Twitter and said the whole liquor scam is false.

Addressing a press conference later in the day, the chief minister reiterated that the allegations against the AAP in the 'Delhi Liquor Scam' are nothing but a "political conspiracy by the BJP to defame him and his party".

He urged the judiciary to take appropriate action against those who are using the ED-CBI for their political interests.

Dismissing the allegations of any liquor scam, he claimed that the accusations levelled by BJP were entirely false, adding that Aam Aadmi Party has always maintained its integrity.

"The AAP is known for its commitment to honesty, and its leadership has earned the trust of the entire country," he said.

A conspiracy to malign the party's image and betray the people's trust was carried out under the guise of the 'Delhi Liquor Scam', he said, adding that the BJP had claimed that the South Lobby paid a bribe of Rs 100 crore to AAP members but it has failed to prove it.

"The CBI-ED have also accepted in the court that out of Rs 100 crore, they do not have any evidence of this scam. The CBI-ED had alleged that a person named Rajesh Joshi translocated Rs 30 crore from the South Lobby and handed it over to the AAP leadership in Delhi. The only 'proof' they have is that someone had stated to them that Joshi gave Rs 30 crore to AAP," he added.

Citing the May 6 order of Rouse Avenue Court, he said the order says that there is not "a single evidence against Joshi to prove that he came to Delhi with a single paisa from the South Lobby".

"When Rajesh Joshi did not bring a single penny, the South Lobby did not give any money and the leadership of the party did not get the money, the whole case should be closed," the CM added.

The chief minister also dismissed the allegations that the party had spent Rs 100 crore in giving bribes during the Goa elections. He said the CBI-ED reportedly raided vendors associated with the party and arrested them, but investigations concluded that only Rs 19 lakh was spent in cash during the elections.

"This is a testament to the party's integrity, as no party in the country spends such a small amount during a state election," he stressed.

He asserted that the liquor scam allegations were a "fabrication created by the Prime Minister's office and presented to the CBI-ED as part of a conspiracy".

Accusing the ED of lying about Sisodia's phone records, he said of the 14 phones in question, five were with CBI-ED, while the rest were working.

He said the ED should be prosecuted for misleading the court and preventing Sisodia from obtaining bail.

Kejriwal said even the name of MP Sanjay Singh was included in the charge sheet, and later the ED tried to cover it up by saying it was a mistake.

Why did the names of BJP leaders Anurag Thakur and Sambit Patra not appear by mistake, he questioned.

Alleging that the ED, known for "intimidating" leaders by issuing notices across the country, Kejriwal said the agency was "intimidated" when Sanjay Singh issued a notice in response.

"This is why the ED went to court and admitted that it had no evidence against Singh," he said.

He also cited an interview of former Jammu and Kashmir governor Satyapal Malik during the press conference.

"Satyapal Malik had said in that interview the BJP would arrest CM Arvind Kejriwal before the next election," Kejriwal said.

The chief minister challenged the BJP to do so, saying that he is just a "small figure compared to the larger issues of the nation at hand".

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Guwahati (Assam) [India], May 8 (ANI): The Chief Minister's Special Vigilance Cell in Assam on Monday arrested three more persons, including a suspended IAS officer, in connection with a multi-crore rupees scam in the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

The arrested persons were identified as Sewali Devi Sharma (suspended IAS officer), Rahul Amin and Ajit Pal Singh.

Also Read | Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Case: Tamil Nadu DGP Orders Inquiry After Video of Gangster Being Killed in Tihar Jail Goes Viral.

Earlier, the Chief Minister's Special Vigilance Cell (CM's SVC) arrested six persons in connection with the scam and they were identified as Rajesh Joshi, Lakhinarayan Sonowal, Joy Chandra Lahkar, Saranga More, Ramiz Uddin Ahmed and Rahul Ali.

Rosie Kalita, Superintendent of Police of CM's Special Vigilance Cell told ANI that, so far we have arrested nine persons in connection with the case related to a multi-crore rupees scam of State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

Also Read | Air India Urination Case: Supreme Court Issues Notices to Centre, DGCA on Plea of Woman for Framing SOP.

"This morning, we have arrested three persons including Sewali Devi Sharma from Ajmer of Rajasthan. We have so far arrested 9 persons. Our investigation is on," Rosie Kalita said.

The Assam government had previously suspended IAS officer Sewali Devi Sharma in connection with the case of financial irregularities and misappropriation of funds of SCERT.

In a notification issued by the Personal (A) Department of Assam government on March 18 said that, "report received from the Department of School Education vide letter eCF No. 221279/227 dated 18-03-2023, that Smti Sewali Devi Sharma, IAS (SCS- 2010), Secretary to the Govt. of Assam, Agriculture Department opened 5 (five) nos. of Bank Accounts without approval of the Government of Assam during her tenure as the Executive Chairman cum Director, SCERT.

"It has also been reported that Smti Sewali Devi Sharma, IAS (SCS-2010), Secretary to the Govt. of Assam, Agriculture Department, the then Executive Chairman cum Director, SCERT was the sole signatory and FRBM rules were not followed in respect of the above-mentioned five numbers of bank accounts; and Whereas it has also been reported that a report of Enquiry on the functioning of ODL under SCERT found financial irregularities and very credible references of misappropriation of fund," said in the notification copy.

"It also stated that the Governor of Assam is satisfied that it is necessary and expedient to place Smti Sewali Devi Sharma, IAS (SCS-2010), Secretary to the Government of Assam, Agriculture Department under suspension from service with immediate effect," it added. (ANI)

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Patna, May 8 (PTI) The Nitish Kumar government in Bihar will bring back all students of the state stranded in violence-hit Manipur, an official said here on Monday.

All the students, holed up in their hostels and other places in the restive north-eastern state, will be brought back on Tuesday and the expenses of their travel will be borne by the government, he said.

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"As per the directions from the chief minister, the Resident Commissioner in Delhi got in touch with students from Bihar in Manipur. They will be ferried to the airport in Imphal in buses, and flown back to Patna by a special flight," the official added.

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Chandigarh, May 8 (PTI) The Haryana Cabinet on Monday accepted the State Backward Classes Commission's report on the proportion of reservation for the communities in urban local body elections, according to an official statement.

The commission has recommended that every municipal body shall have at least one councillor belonging to backward classes Block-A if its population is not less than two per cent of the total population of the urban local body, it said.

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There are as many as 78 backward classes in the state and more than 70 of them fall in Block-A sub-category.

The commission, headed by Justice (retired) Darshan Singh, conducted an empirical assessment of the political backwardness of the backward classes.

Also Read | Delhi Government Launches Anti-dust Campaign, Issues Direction for Construction Sites.

In the assessment, the commission found that the backward classes Block-A are not adequately represented in the political setup, so they require the support of reservation in the elections of urban local bodies and municipalities for adequate participation in the grassroots democratic setup, according to the statement.

The cabinet, which met here Monday evening under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, accepted the commission's report.

According to the statement, the commission has stated that as per the directions of the Supreme Court, the reservation shall not exceed the aggregate of 50 per cent of the total seats reserved in favour of Scheduled Castes and BC (A) taken together in a particular urban local body/municipality.

In order to clarify the interpretation of the recommendations, the following examples have been cited by the commission, it said.

"Say, for example, in the urban local area 'A', the population of the backward classes Block A of citizens is 25 per cent of the total population of that urban local area then 12.5 per cent of seats shall be reserved for BC-A category subject to the other conditions mentioned.

"Where...the population of the Scheduled Castes is 50 per cent or more, the BC-A will not get any reservation irrespective of the percentage of their population," it said.

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Jaipur/New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) A MiG-21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed into a house in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, leaving three women dead and as many others injured on the ground, officials said.

The pilot sustained minor injuries in the crash that took place at around 9:45 am, the IAF said, adding a Court of Inquiry has been set up to ascertain the cause of the accident.

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The plane was on a routine training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh in Ganganagar district, which is close to Hanumangarh.

"Soon thereafter, the pilot experienced an onboard emergency, following which he attempted to recover the aircraft as per existing procedures," the IAF said in a statement.

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"Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection, sustaining minor injuries in the process. The pilot was recovered from about 25 kilometres North East of Suratgarh base," it said.

The IAF said the "wreckage of the aircraft fell on a house in Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh district, unfortunately leading to the loss of three lives."

"The IAF regrets the loss of lives and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

The incident has once again put the spotlight on the poor safety record of MiG-21 jets which have been involved in 400 crashes in the last six decades.

Inspector General of Police, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said the pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and the plane crash-landed on the outskirts of a village.

"Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.

Superintendent of Police, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed into the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur.

Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said.

The house was completely damaged and some nearby structures were also affected.

A resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashed into the house of Ratti Ram and the wood stored there caught fire.

"Local people immediately started efforts to douse the flames with water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the resident told reporters in Hanumangarh.

Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.

The family members of the victims refused to accept the bodies and demanded compensation of Rs 50 lakh and government job.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed grief over the incident and said that compensation under Chiranjeevi Insurance will be given to the kin of the victims.

Hanumangarh collector Rukmani Riar said that a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each under the scheme will be paid to the families of the deceased women.

She said that they are talking to the family members of the victims to convince them to conduct their last rites.

At present, the IAF has three MiG-21 squadrons with a total of around 50 aircraft, according to officials. The IAF last year finalised a timeline of three years to phase out the remaining Mig-21 fighter squadrons.

In March last year, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhat said in Rajya Sabha that 42 defence personnel were killed in accidents involving aircraft and helicopters of the three services in the last five years.

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Jammu and Kashmir [India], May 8 (ANI): The J-K Students Association here today thanked the Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha-led government for safely evacuating the students who were stranded in violence-hit Manipur.

In a statement, the association's national convenor, Nasir Kahuihami, thanked the Jammu and Kashmir administrations for facilitating the evacuation of Kashmiri students from Manipur, which is grappling with violence and unrest.

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Kahuihami acknowledged that all the students from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir who were studying in Manipur and were stranded due to the escalating violence have safely returned to their home country J-KUT via flights.

He praised both the J-K and Manipur authorities for their prompt efforts in ensuring the safe return of these students from violence-hit Manipur.

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Kahwahami said, "The students were stuck in Manipur due to the ongoing violence, which made it difficult for them to return home. However, the J-K Students' Association approached the J-K LG administration and the Manipur administration, seeking their help in evacuating the students."

In response, the J-K LG administration and the Manipur administration immediately swung into action, coordinating with various agencies to ensure the safe and timely evacuation of the Kashmiri students.

J-K Students Association National Secretary Dawood Ahmed also thanked them and said, "We are very grateful to the LG administration of Jammu and Kashmir and the Manipur administration for evacuating our Kashmiri students from Manipur. For their quick and efficient response."

Ahmed added that the students get free boarding, lodging and transportation to their homes through the J-K government.

The association appreciated the tireless efforts of all involved in this operation and hoped that such collaborative efforts between different regions and communities would continue in the future.

The District Magistrates of Baramulla and Jammu, respectively, paid valuable attention to the students of Jammu and Kashmir, integrating them and repatriating them. The gesture of solidarity and support shown by both the J&K and Manipur authorities will forever be etched in the minds of the students. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], May 8 (ANI): Ahead of the Karnataka Assembly elections, BJP national president JP Nadda has convened a meeting of the party's national general secretaries on Tuesday, informed sources.

The meeting has been called just a day ahead of the polling for the assembly elections in Karnataka.

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The 224-seat Karnataka Assembly will go to polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. The majority mark needed to form the government is 113.

The BJP is eyeing a second term in the state and has exuded confidence in retaining power with a full majority.

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Notably, Karnataka is the only State in the South where BJP is in power.

Campaigning for the 10 May elections in Karnataka ended on Monday after multiple rallies, public meetings and interactions across the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a mega roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday. He also held public meetings at Nanjangud in Mysuru and Shivamogga. (ANI)

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Malappuram (Kerala) [India], May 8 (ANI): Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday visited the Taluk Hospital, Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors of the boat capsize incident near the Tanur coast a day ago were admitted.

The Kerala government has also ordered a judicial probe into the incident. The chief minister announced Rs 10 lakh compensation to the kin of victims and said the government will bear the treatment expense of the injured people.

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Twenty-two people, including a police officer, were killed after an overloaded double-decker tourist boat capsized at Parappanangadi on Sunday (May 7).

Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan earlier today said that 22 people have died so far in boat capsize incident.

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The minister informed that a search operation by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and rescue teams is underway.

"37 people have been identified. 22 people died. 10 people have been identified in different hospitals. Five people were confirmed to have swum in. A total of 37 people were identified," said the State minister.

"The exact number of people who travelled on the boat could not be recorded. Let there be no more," he said.

"However, all searches are ongoing. NDRF, fire and rescue and scuba team are conducting the searches. The Navy's team has also come forward. The Coast Guard arrived yesterday. Only other help will be received from them. A second team of NDRF will also arrive here," the minister said.

Malappuram District Collector, VR Prem Kumar told ANI that rescue operations are in full swing.

"Rescue operations are in full swing. We are in constant touch with the hospital authorities. The district administration has alerted all the departments since the incident happened. We are grateful to the local fishermen who volunteered in this search operation," said the district collector.

He said that Navy personnel have also reached the spot to assist in the rescue operations.

Officials informed that a 21-member National Disaster Response Relief (NDRF) team and the fire force started a rescue operation early on Monday, adding, "A police officer was also among the dead".

Post-mortem procedures of those who died have been completed and the bodies have been handed over to their relatives.

Post-mortem was conducted at Thirurangadi, Perunthalmanna Hospitals and Mancheri Medical College. Post-mortems were also conducted in private hospitals, officials said.

Chief Minister Vijayan had condoled the loss of lives in the boat capsize incident and ordered the effective coordination of rescue operations.

"Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends" Vijayan said in a tweet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs two lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased.(ANI)

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New Delhi [India], May 8 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives in the Malappuram boat capsize incident in Kerala and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased.

The death toll in the Malappuram boat capsize incident rose to 18 on Sunday night, the Malappuram Superintendent of Police (SP) said.

Also Read | Malappuram Boat Accident: 16 Killed As Houseboat With More Than 30 Passengers on Board Capsizes off Tanur Coast; PM Modi Announces Rs 2 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Families.

"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi," said a tweet from th Prime Minister's office on Sunday night.

The incident happened in the Malappuram district in Kerala, where a tourist boat capsized near the Tanur coast.

Also Read | Kerala Boat Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to 15 in Malappuram Boat Capsize Incident.

Several vehicles reached the spot and started the rescue operation.

The operation is being carried out.

More details are awaited. (ANI)

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Kampala  President Museveni met with Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and his supporters under the MK Movement at State House in Entebbe.

Among the leaders of the MK Movement present during the meeting were Michael Nuwagira Kaguta also known as Toyota, Andrew Mwenda, Balam Barugahara, MPs David Kabanda (Kasambya), Lilian Aber (Kitgum district) and Michael Mawanda for Igara East.

Whereas details of the meeting are scanty, the president commended the group for its efforts to bring about cohesion in the country.

"While noting the efforts of the group towards unity and cohesion of the country, he spoke to them about the need for patriotism, Pan-Africanism and democracy in the socio-economic transformation of Uganda and Africa," the State House said.

Earlier this year, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba slammed the old generation of leaders to which his father, Museveni belongs for dominating the young generation noting that he is tired of waiting.

He consequently declared his presidential ambitions, come 2026.
New Delhi, May 8: A man has been shot dead over Rs 4,000 at an advocate's office in southeast Delhi's Govindpuri area, police said. The incident happened on Sunday and the deceased has been identified as Anas Ahmad who sustained a bullet injury and was declared dead at Majida Hospital in the area, they said.

A case has been registered and a search is on to nab the accused, who is absconding, the police said. According to the police, information was received at 11:51 pm that a bullet had been fired and had hit one person at advocate Sushil Gupta's office in Govindpuri. Gujarat Shocker: Shailesh Patel, BJP Vice President of Vapi, Shot Dead by Bike-Borne Men in Rata.

Investigations revealed that Zafrool, a client of advocate Sushil Gupta, was having a monetary dispute with Syed Mukkim Raza over Rs 4,000. "Zafrool told Sushil Gupta to intervene and then Ankit Bidhuri, Mukim Raza, Varun and Gulam Md reached the office of Sushil Gupta for talks. One common acquaintance Amit Mandra with two others also came. They were taken to Sushil Gupta's office by Amit Madar who came in his vehicle," the police said.

The police added that a fight broke out. Several locals reached the office of Sushil Gupta, seeing the crowd Varun Bidhuri alias Binnu fired several shots into the office, out of which one shot hit Anas Ahmad who was declared dead in Majidia hospital.

"Ankit Bidhuri, Mukim Raza and Varun escaped through the rooftop, after reaching the spot an extensive search was launched on the rooftop and after more than two hours Ankit and Mukim were caught hiding on the roof of a building by local police," the police added. West Bengal Shocker: Elderly Man Molests Minor Girl With Chocolate Lure in Malda, Accused Arrested.

"The public also beat three other persons Yogesh Khatana, Ritesh Khatana and Naveen Bhati mistaking them for associates of the assailants," the police official said

Local police reached the spot where the firing had taken place. "At the spot, one black vehicle used by assailants was found damaged and broken by the public after the firing incident," the police added.

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Mumbai, May 8: The Reserve Bank's gold reserves increased by 34.22 tonne year-on-year to reach 794.64 tonne at March-end 2023, showed central bank data on Monday. The Reserve Bank held 760.42 metric tonnes of gold (including gold deposits of 11.08 metric tonnes) at the March-end of 2022.

"As at end-March 2023, the Reserve Bank held 794.64 metric tonne of gold (including gold deposits of 56.32 metric tonne)," the central bank said in its Half Yearly Report on Management of Foreign Exchange Reserves: October 2022 - March 2023. Odisha: Gold Mines Found in Deogarh, Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj.

While 437.22 tonne of gold is held overseas in safe custody with the Bank of England and the Bank of International Settlements (BIS), 301.10 tonne of gold is held domestically. Gold Rush Hits Uttar Pradesh: 3,350 Tonne Goldmine Discovered by Geological Survey of India in Sonbhadra District.

In value terms (USD), the share of gold in the total foreign exchange reserves increased from about 7.06 per cent as of September-end 2022 to about 7.81 per cent as of March-end 2023, the report said. During the half-year period, reserves increased from USD 532.66 billion as of September-end 2022 to USD 578.45 billion as of March-end 2023.

Forex reserves comprise foreign currency assets, gold, special drawing rights and reserve tranche position in the International Monetary Fund. Although both the US dollar and Euro are intervention currencies and the Foreign Currency Assets (FCA) are maintained in major currencies, the foreign exchange reserves are denominated and expressed in the US dollar terms.

Movements in the FCA occur mainly on account of the purchase and sale of foreign exchange by the RBI, income arising out of the deployment of the foreign exchange reserves, external aid receipts of the central government and changes on account of revaluation of the assets.

As of March-end 2023, out of the total FCA of USD 509.69 billion, USD 411.65 billion was invested in securities, USD 75.51 billion was deposited with other central banks and the Bank of International Settlements (BIS), and the balance of USD 22.52 billion comprised deposits with commercial banks overseas.

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Chennai, May 8: Tamil Nadu Director General of Police C Sylendra Babu has ordered an inquiry into the Delhi Tihar Jail incident where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was murdered, an official of the Tamil Nadu Special Police said on Monday.

CCTV footage of the incident that surfaced purportedly shows some policemen in uniform standing as mute spectators during the May 2 incident. Tamil Nadu Special Police said that the Additional Director General of Police, TN, HM Jayaram would be visiting Tihar jail on Monday to investigate the matter. Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Video: Another CCTV Clip From Tihar Jail Surfaces, Shows Two Men Stabbing and Hitting Gangster's Body in Police Presence.

Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Video

Shocking visuals of the murder surface from Tihar Jail. The Jailed gangster was stabbed over 100 times allegedly by members of a rival gang in high-security barracks of the Tihar Jail on May 2nd.#TiharJail #gangster #rival #gang #Tillu #Tajpuriya #murder #violence #shocking pic.twitter.com/vpTz25AiDl  First India (@thefirstindia) May 4, 2023

Meanwhile, a Quick Response Team (QRT) armed with anti-riot equipment has been placed at Tihar Jail after the recent murder of gangster Tajpuriya, officials said on Sunday. According to prison officials, QRT has been placed in Tihar and will be armed with anti-riot equipment. Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Video: Another CCTV Footage Shows Gangster Murdered in Tihar Jail in Prison Officials Presence.

They added that the team would not be carrying any lethal weapon as the prison manual prohibits the deployment of weapons as per current rules. "The armed men are placed only on the entry-exit points, and specific and strategic points. They will be equipped with helmet, baton, bulletproof jacket, chilli powder, etc," a prison official said.

Director General (Prison), Tihar Jail, Sanjay Baniwal met Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Friday and presented a detailed report on the murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya inside the jail premises, said sources in the L-G House.

Also, in the wake of the killing, nine staff members of Tihar Jail, including the Assistant Superintendent, were suspended after a CCTV visual of the gangster being stabbed by rival gang members inside Tihar went viral on Friday.

The second CCTV visual of the macabre murder showed that fellow inmates continued stabbing the prime accused of the Rohini Court shootout in front of uniformed personnel, who did not intervene. The footage from the CCTV camera mounted on the wall of Central Gallery inside Tihar Jail, is from around 6:15 am on May 2.

The police personnel could be seen standing near Tillu Tajpuriya, lying on the floor, and watching three men stabbing the gangster with weapons, fashioned out of lockup grills. Earlier on Thursday, the first set of CCTV footage emerged.

The footage was from around 6:10 am on May 2. In the visuals, no police officer was seen. Some prisoners could be seen there, but no one was able to stop the attackers. Gangster Tillu Tajpuriya, an accused in Delhi's Rohini court shootout case was killed by rival gang members in Tihar jail on May 2.

According to the prison officials, Tillu Tajpuriya was immediately taken to Delhi's Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he was declared dead. Members of the rival gang namely Deepak alias Teeter, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan had around 6:15 am cut open the iron grill installed on the first floor of the ward using an improvised saw.

According to a prison official, the accused were lodged on the first floor of the same ward and they used an iron rod to attack Tajpuriya. Tajpuriya, a resident of Delhi who headed the infamous Tillu gang, was arrested in 2016 for multiple crimes and had been in jail ever since.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bengaluru, May 8: Former Karnataka Chief Minister Yediyurappa on Monday expressed confidence that Bharatiya Janata Party will win 135 seats in Karnataka polls and termed Congress as "a drowning ship".

Addressing a press conference on the last day of the campaign in Karnataka, the senior BJP leader said a "double-engine government" is essential for the development of the southern state. Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023: Pre-Poll Survey Predicts Hung House, BJP May Emerge as Single Largest Party With 105 Seats; Check Seat-Wise Predictions for Congress and JDS Here.

"Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah did roadshows and rallies. I am confident that we (BJP) will win 135 seats in the Karnataka Assembly election. Congress is a drowning ship, its leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra won only 2-3 seats in Uttar Pradesh even after campaigning for 4-5 months," Yediyurappa said. Karnataka Assembly Elections 2023: Congress Has Called BR Ambedkar Dagaabaaz, Lingayats As Thieves, Says PM Narendra Modi.

Yediyurappa said Congress leaders cannot match the stature of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is working restlessly for the country's development. He said that the southern state needs a development-oriented government.

Yediyurappa listed the achievements of the BJP government at the Centre. nHe said India is now the fifth largest economy in the world and is on course to becoming the first or second-placed economy in 20-25 years.

He said the BJP does not discriminate on the grounds of caste or religion. Talking to reporters, Yediyurappa said the BJP has the total support of the Lingayat community despite efforts of Congress "to create problems".

"Hundred per cent Lingayat Community is with us. Congress is trying their level best to create some problems but almost all Lingayats Swamis are with us and told me that they will support BJP," he said. Karnataka will go to Assembly polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.

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Washington [US], May 8 (ANI): UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute at UCLA, and the National Institutes of Health have created a zebrafish model that sheds new light on how the brain acquires essential omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and linolenic acid (ALA).

Their findings, published in Nature Communications, have the potential to improve understanding of lipid transport across the blood-brain barrier and of disruptions in this process that can lead to birth defects or neurological conditions. The model may also enable researchers to design drug molecules that are capable of directly reaching the brain.

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Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential because the body cannot make them and must obtain them through foods, such as fish, nuts and seeds. DHA levels are especially high in the brain and important for a healthy nervous system. Infants obtain DHA from breastmilk or formula, and deficiencies of this fatty acid have been linked to problems with learning and memory. To get to the brain, omega-3 fatty acids must pass through the blood-brain barrier via the lipid transporter Mfsd2a, which is essential for normal brain development. Despite its importance, scientists did not know precisely how Mfsd2a transports DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids.

In the study, the research team provides images of the structure of zebrafish Mfsd2a, which is similar to its human counterpart. The snapshots are the first to detail precisely how fatty acids move across the cell membrane. The study team also identified three compartments in Mfsd2a that suggest distinct steps required to move and flip fatty acids through the transporter, as opposed to movement through a linear tunnel or along the surface of the protein complex. The findings provide key information on how Mfsd2a transports omega-3 fatty acids into the brain and may enable researchers to optimize drug delivery via this route. The study also provides foundational knowledge on how other members of this transporter family, called the major facilitator superfamily (MFS), regulate important cellular functions. (ANI)

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Mexico City, May 8 (AP) Mexico's president said on Monday he will talk with US President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programmes to help stem the flow of migrants to the US border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed US authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Also Read | Nepal MP Amresh Kumar Singh Takes Off Clothes in House After Not Being Allowed To Speak.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the US border.

Don't allow yourselves to be fooled, Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. Don't allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk."

Also Read | Pakistan Among World's Worst Performers in Internet Access, Digital Governance.

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the US government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people won't have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by US Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

This really degrades them, morally, he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Islamabad [Pakistan], May 8 (ANI): Asserting that National Assembly will complete its constitutional term, Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah on Sunday rejected Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan's demand to dissolve assemblies and said that Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) has kicked off its election campaign, Geo News reported.

His statement comes as the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government has refused to accept the Supreme Court's verdict on holding elections to the Punjab Assembly on May 14.

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Speaking to reporters in Faisalabad, Rana Sanaullah stated that his party will win the elections. He said, "We will win the elections. Free and transparent elections will be held this year and the National Assembly will complete its constitutional term," as per the Geo News report.

The ruling PDM government has refused to accept the apex court's verdict on holding polls in Punjab and is holding talks with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to reach a consensus on the simultaneous elections in Pakistan, as per the news report.

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Despite agreeing to conduct elections on the same date, the Pakistan government and PTI have failed to reach a consensus on the election time. The ruling government and PTI have submitted separate reports to the Supreme Court.

Speaking about the ongoing negotiations, Rana Sanaullah said the federal government is not ready to hold general elections in Pakistan "even one day before" the stipulated time on the demand of PTI, as per the Geo News report.

He further said, "People should minus him [from politics] using their power of the vote. We will treat him first then go into the polls. If he [Imran Khan] takes to the streets." Rana Sanaullah said that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, who has been living in London since November 2019, will return to Pakistan before the general elections.

Rana Sanaullah brushed off former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's warning that he would hold protests in Pakistan if elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies are not held within 90 days of their dissolution, Geo News reported. He said that PTI threatened the government in May 2022, however, Imran Khan "did not find a way to escape" on May 25.

As per the news report, PML-N will begin its campaign on May 28. The development came after a meeting between Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in London. Shehbaz Sharif visited London to attend the coronation ceremony of King Charles III.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan a "liar" and "cunning person from head to toe." He said Imran Khan's lies are now being exposed in front of Pakistan, The Express Tribune reported.

Shehbaz Sharif said that the narrative made against him by the PTI government was on the basis of lies. He said that attempt was made to collect evidence against him in New Zealand and other nations, as per The Express Tribune report.

Shehbaz Sharif's statement came while speaking to journalists in London where he attended the coronation of King Charles III. He also met Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif during his visit. Shehbaz Sharif also met Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kyiv, May 8 (AP) Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesday's annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones, jet skis and car-sharing services in its largest cities amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities cancelled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

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Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which hasn't witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

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Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries' border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

The fears of a possible Ukrainian attack appeared real, even though parades will go ahead in Russia's largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities ahead of Victory Day.

In St. Petersburg, often referred to as "Venice of the north for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city is prohibited through May 10.

In the Russian capital, car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city centre  drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there  amid preparations for the traditional Red Square parade.

Initially, only one foreign leader was expected to attend this year's Moscow parade  Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Zhaparov, who arrived Monday and met Putin for talks.

That was one more foreign guest than last year, when no leaders went amid Russian President Vladimir Putin's broad diplomatic isolation over the war. The Kremlin at the time said it hadn't invited any because it wasn't a round-number anniversary.

But on Monday officials announced that Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon would be joining Putin and Zhaparov at the festivities, along with Armenia's prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, and Kazakhstan's leader, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

The latter two were surprising choices for the guest list as they have in the past diverged from Putin's line.

Kazakhstan and Armenia, though Russia's allies, have not publicly supported the war in Ukraine. In fact, Tokayev has spoken to Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone several times throughout the invasion.

Tokayev also told Putin last summer that Kazakhstan will not recognize the Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

Pashinyan snubbed Moscow earlier this year by refusing to host military drills of the Russia-dominated security alliance Armenia is part of, the Collective Security Treaty Organization.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Zelenskyy equated Russia's goals in Ukraine to those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram.

Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

The European Union's Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is due to travel to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Zelenskyy.

Meanwhile, Ukraine air defences shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russia's latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlin's forces killed four civilians, officials said Monday.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyiv's western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has routinely turned to Iranian Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defence ministry said.

Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraine's southern Odesa region, authorities said. One person was killed and three wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the front-line southern Zaporizhzhia region, toward the Black Sea coast, Ukraine's General Staff said.

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city some 100 kilometres southeast, it said.

On Friday, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there, including Enerhodar which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraine's expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscow's land link to occupied Crimea. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Imphal, May 8: At least 60 people, including women, have been killed and 231 people injured while 1,700 houses have been burned down in the ethnic violence in Manipur since May 3, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said on Monday.

He announced that a high-level inquiry would be conducted to fix responsibility on persons and groups who instigated the violence and government servants who didn't meet their responsibilities. So far 35,655 persons, hit by the violence, including 1,593 students, have been moved to safer locations, Singh told the media. Manipur Violence: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Interacts With Students Stranded in Violence-Hit State (Watch Video).

Around 10,000 people remain stranded, he said, adding that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been monitoring the situation from the first day of the incident till Monday. The Home Minister has sent 50 companies of Central forces to help the 105 columns of Army and Assam Rifles to deal with the violence, Singh added. Manipur Violence: State Govt Orders Reliance Jio Fiber, Airtel Xtreme, BSNL, Others To Bar Broadband and Data Services.

He said that the miscreants and the agitators snatched 1,041 arms and 7,460 pieces of ammunition from the security forces and so far, 214 arms and 4,273 pieces of ammunition were recovered.

The Chief Minister has announced Rs five lakh as compensation to the next of kin to the deceased, Rs two lakh for grievous injuries and Rs 25, 000 for non-grievous injuries, while appealing for peace.

"I appeal to all not to spread or believe unfounded and baseless rumours. I appeal to people to bring peace and calm to the state. Transportation of stranded persons to their respective locations has started," he said. Singh said that all those persons stranded at different locations in Manipur are being provided best possible care and support in safe locations and shelter camps.

On May 3, unprecedented violent clashes, attacks and arson broke out at various places during a 'Tribal Solidarity March' called by the All Tribal Students' Union of Manipur (ATSUM) to oppose the demand for inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category.

Manipur Violence: 60 Killed, 231 Injured, 1,700 Houses Burnt Since May 3, Says CM N Biren Singh

Acting on a writ petition filed by the Meetei (Meitei) Trade Union, the Manipur High Court's acting Chief Justice M.V. Muralidaran on April 19 had directed the state government to submit the recommendation for inclusion of Meitei (Meetei) community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list to the Union Tribal Affairs Ministry.

In view of the prevailing unrest in Manipur, the Central government has already imposed Article 355 in the state to bring the situation under control. Article 355 is part of emergency provisions contained in the Constitution that empowers the Centre to take all necessary steps to protect a state against internal disturbances or external aggression.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 08, 2023 08:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
New York, May 8: An Indian-origin primary care physician in US' Georgia has been accused of sexually assaulting four of his female patients during routine check-ups over a 12-month period.

Rajesh Motibhai Patel, 68, was indicted last week on multiple counts of violating his patients' constitutional right to bodily integrity while acting under colour of law and for engaging in unwanted sexual contact, a Department of Justice release said. Indian-American Judge Vince Chhabria Slaps $1 Million Fine on Facebooks Parent Meta.

According to information presented in court, between 2019 and 2020, Patel, a physician at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Decatur, allegedly assaulted four of his female patients by touching them improperly during routine exams. Investigators believe that Patel may have victimised additional patients. Indian-American Surgeon Lokesh S Tantuwaya Gets 5-Years Jail for Accepting $3.3 Million in Bribes for Spinal Surgeries in California.

"Patel allegedly sexually abused his female patients and violated his oath to do no harm to patients under his care," US Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan said.

"Veterans and their families expect and deserve the highest quality of healthcare delivered in a safe and accountable setting," Veteran Affairs Inspector General Michael J. Missal said. He said that the department has been cooperating the law enforcement to ensure the safety of patients.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 08, 2023 11:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Freelance investigative journalist cum-lawyer Agatha Atuhaire has won this year's European Union (EU) Human Rights Defenders Award.

Atuhaire beat her fellow investigative journalist, Solomon Sserwanja and Richard Lusimbo, a human rights activist, filmmaker and public speaker.

According to the EU, this year's competition attracted 88 nominees from all over the country however only three were shortlisted. The award is given to individuals in recognition of their significant contributions to human rights provided in the past year.

It seeks to give increased visibility to human rights defenders, who, despite the important work they do may not be so well known nationally and internationally.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony which was held at the residence of the Netherlands Ambassador to Uganda in Kololo, Atuhaire said; "It is with great honour and humility that I receive this prestigious award. The human rights defenders in this country go through a lot. Activism in this country is harder than in any other country. This award is something that you would look forward to or that can re-energize you."

"I am grateful to my fellow finalists. I am not doing a better job than you have. We have all been through a lot trying do what we think works for this country. This is not because others are not doing an incredible job, it must be because God chose me to be today and this can only encourage us to do more," she said.

Atuhaire said " I am called a small girl. What does she call herself? Who is she? What does she have? Today, this is to show that I actually have more power than they think and that's why they are afraid. I haven't been in activism for so long. I was a mainstream journalist. Journalists are not supposed to be activists because we are supposed to be objective. You are not allowed to show what you believe in or side with.

When I was in the ninth parliament, I wrote more about the former speaker Rebecca Kadaga than about the current speaker who thinks that I am her number one enemy but no one knew the work I was doing in mainstream journalism. When I saw that the abnormal way of doing things is much more disruptive, and more effective that you have more people who access what you have written on social media than they did when I wrote a 2000-piece article in The Independent or in Daily Monitor. What we need is, what can we do to reach the people and create an impact. So I decided to put my work there.

"Not everyone has a voice, not everyone has the courage, and not everyone has the platform. When I get the recognition that is more than I ever imagined getting, it's overwhelming," she said.

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The EU Ambassador Jan Sadek said leading human rights defenders demonstrate that universal values are not just words that sound nice in a speech, but that they have real-life meaning and can transform people's lives. These universal rights are inherent to us, regardless of nationality, sexual orientation, gender, identity, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, language, or any other status. Upholding these rights means

The EU applauds Uganda for enacting such a progressive constitution, and we commit ourselves to work with all Ugandan stakeholders, to make sure that all the laws that are made including those currently, under consideration, are in line with Chapter Four of the Constitution as well as Uganda's international human rights obligations.

"Adhering to human rights principles allows us to foster a clear pathway to sustainable peace, equitable economic development and inclusion in society. The struggle for human rights is an ongoing one in all parts of the world and in Uganda," he said.

The Ambassador of the Netherlands Karin Boven human rights defenders in Uganda have been at the forefront of fighting injustices and advocating for human rights, despite the prevailing odds that seek to silence them.

"Human rights violations continue to occur in Uganda and elsewhere. Progress is urgently needed to ensure that everyone in this country has their human rights respected protected and fulfilled regardless of age, ethnic background, religion and gender," she said.
Mumbai, May 8: Apple Watch is one of the, best smartwatches in the market. It comes with top-of-the-line specs and features. And now, it is saving lives as well. Once again, the Apple Watch has saved a life thanks to its innovative Fall Detection feature. It managed to rescue a woman who suffered from a severe heart issue. Apple Watch Saves Life Again, Alerts Wearer About Racing Pulse After Nap Leads to Internal Bleeding.

The popular wearable is known for accurately tracking the user's health and fitness. It also stays connected and sends reports. Recently, the Apple Watchs Fall Detection feature the smartwatch detected the user's fall and promptly dialled 911. The devices quick response time helped in increasing her chances of survival.

In this case, the woman was travelling on a business trip when she started experiencing chest pains. While she reached out to a friend, she collapsed and fell before they could reach her. Fortunately, she was wearing an Apple Watch, which detected the fall and automatically dialled 911. As a result, an ambulance reached her location, and she was rushed to the hospital. She has to undergo emergency surgery, as her diagnosis revealed a ruptured aorta.

This is not the first time an Apple Watch has been a lifesaver. It has been credited with saving lives by multiple users. The popular smartwatch has become a trusted medical companion for many. So far, it has detected undiagnosed heart conditions, blood clots in the lungs, and more.

Recently, the Apple Watch alerted a man about a condition which couldve probably killed him overnight. He then got treatment in time, preventing such a tragedy. Apple Watch Saves Life Again: Watch Warns UK Author Adam Croft About Undiagnosed Heart Condition.

The new Fall Detection feature is especially useful for detecting potentially dangerous falls and alerting emergency services. Such new features are revolutionizing personal health care. As the nxt step, the Apple Watch is also adding mental health tracking capabilities.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 08, 2023 10:14 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Times Staff Writer

One Friday night last spring, Hollywood legend Bette Davis left the Los Angeles film set of Wicked Stepmother after one week of shooting to undergo some dental work in New York. She never returned.

Now, eight months later, the true story behind that departure is the source of a heated dispute between the 80-year-old Davis and Wicked Stepmothers 41-year-old director, Larry Cohen.

Cohen says Davis did not return because of her health, particularly the severe weight loss she experienced after dental surgery. But the relentlessly feisty Davis blames Cohen for her decision not to return. She sharply criticizes his directorial style and says he refused to heed any of her advice.

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With Wicked Stepmother tentatively set to open Jan. 27, Davis is anxious to distance herself from the film--even though audiences will see her starring in scenes during the first half-hour. I would be ashamed to have people think I sanctioned something like this, Davis says.

Davis has not seen the completed film, but she did view the first weeks footage before she left for New York. People will be horrified at the footage on me, she says. I think that for the good of my future career I honestly had no choice but to go public with the story.

Despite an acting career already spanning more than half a century, Davis future career is much on her mind these days. In 1983, after undergoing a mastectomy, followed nine days later by a stroke, Davis was terrified that she would never again be able to act. She wrote in her book This n That that, I wouldnt want to live if I could never act again.

Today, Davis is back on her feet, with a chatty autobiographical book and a starring role in the feature film Whales of August behind her. During a recent interview in her Hollywood apartment, she looked resplendent and elegant in her tailored red-knit dress and diamond-laced jewelry. But as Davis settled into her armchair, reaching for her trademark prop--a cigarette--it was obvious that while she has recovered from the stroke, she will never recover from her intense need to work.

I lah-h-h-v my profession, says the ever-so-theatrical voice, deepened by years of tobacco smoke. I would n-e-e - e-ver stop. Relax? I relax when I work. Its my life.

That need to go on acting, regardless of her age, is what prompted Davis to go public with her side of the Wicked Stepmother story--and to voice her criticism of Cohens direction. Im not a vain person, says Davis. But at 80 years old I dont want to look the way I looked (in the Wicked Stepmother footage). It seriously could be the end of anybody ever hiring me again.

There is also an unspoken concern here: Studios are reluctant to hire actors, particularly older actors, with publicized health problems. A key reason is the steep price of obtaining cast insurance, which covers a studios losses if an actor dies or falls ill during production. In Davis case, according to Cohen, the insurance company paid out a $1-million claim to cover the costs of her departure from Wicked Stepmother.

But, as Cohen notes, Davis dental problems should not make her any less employable because they werent related to her age or health. This could have happened to anybody, Cohen says. He adds that Davis passed the physical that is required before obtaining cast insurance.

Cohen--who launched his own career writing such films as Carrie, and has made his mark as a director of horror offerings like Q, The Stuff, and the Its Alive series--wrote the Wicked Stepmother role specifically for Davis.

He recalls the story of Davis departure this way: Soon after the actress flew to New York last spring, it became clear that her dental problems were more serious than anyone had anticipated. She stayed in New York several weeks, undergoing surgery and experiencing severe weight loss. (Davis herself says she dropped from 88 to 75 pounds.)

Several days later, her business manager contacted Cohen and began raising objections to several aspects of the production. Her manager came out and said there were problems with the set, says Cohen. She had fallen on something. . . . (At another point) a special effect cigarette prop had exploded and hurt her.

Cohen contends that Davis representatives were paving the way for her decision not to return for the two more weeks of filming required in the original script. By then, he says, he had received a letter from her doctor saying she was unable to return anytime soon. As production stalled and costs escalated, Cohen says he considered hiring a replacement.

Instead, he rewrote the script to minimize Davis role as the wicked witch who marries into an unsuspecting family, becoming the childrens stepmother. In the original script, Davis was going to turn a cat into the beautiful Barbara Carrera. In the new version, Davis herself turns into Carrera, who assumes Davis lines for the bulk of the film. (Though some family members continue to see her as Davis.)

Davis sees things differently. Yes, she says, she did undergo intensive dental work, including surgery, and lost 13 pounds as a result. But I was perfectly able, had the conditions been right, to return to the film. Perfectly able, she says.

Those conditions, she says, centered on Cohens direction, and his attitude. Before I left, I told him I had to see the rushes (that is, the film footage) from the weeks work, Davis recalls. Ive always tried to be very, very honest with audiences. Whatever I did, I believed in myself. I was really very upset with these rushes. Many of the scenes that I wasnt in had nothing to do with the script I had approved. Much of that weeks work had, well, to me, many vulgar moments.

He never rehearses actors, she complains of Cohen. He just rehearses the camera. So we work for the camera. I was very uncomfortable in all the scenes he had me play in that week because he worried about the camera. There was always a dolly running around.

Davis was particularly disturbed about her own appearance on film. If he had gone in and seen the rushes daily he would have seen that there was a problem dentally, but he never does, she says. On the screen I looked uncomfortable--and I was.

She says that after many days in New York agonizing over what to do, she concluded that she had to leave the production. I just knew I could not come back, she says, that nothing would change. He took suggestions from nobody.

Cohen dismisses Davis criticisms. On the quality of the Davis footage, he says that no one but Davis could tell that her dentures were slipping. He adds that in the final cut he edited out the pauses she took between lines--apparently a result of her dental problems.

He says that while he doesnt block out scenes on location--preferring to work more spontaneously--he spent days rehearsing lines with her personally and with the cast at his home. And I have plenty of cigarette burns all over my house to prove it, Cohen said in a reference to Davis smoking habit.

Then there is the dispute over one scene: Vulgar, in terrible taste, says Davis. One of the biggest laughs in the movie, retorts Cohen.

In it, the audience gets a glimpse of a photo of the familys natural mother on the mantel, as the children recount how wonderful and kind she was. The photo is of Joan Crawford, subject of her daughters scathing book, Mommie Dearest, and Davis Baby Jane co-star. (Davis received similar treatment from her evangelical daughter, B.D. Hyman, who condemned the actress mothering talents in a 1985 book.)

The strong-willed Bette Davis is no rookie in the ring with film makers and studios. There was the time in 1945, for example, when she raised H--as she puts it--over an advertisement for Corn is Green that pictured her schoolmistress character, Miss Moffat, in a slinky gown.

Davis fights with Jack Warner were legendary. Angry over the uninteresting parts his studio was requiring her to play during the 1940s, she fled to Europe to make pictures. But Warner filed a suit against her for breach of contract and obtained an injunction against her non-Warner work.

But, Davis says, she has never before left a film in the midst of production. I thought this part would be fun, she says. In all my years, I never heard of a director who never saw rushes, who never listened to me. I was always flattered by directors. I think you have a duty to bring ideas to them--thats the way Ive always worked.

Cohen insists that his and Davis relations were amicable right up to her departure to New York, when she said goodby to him with a kiss. My attitude is that many people give Bette Davis dinners, many people give Bette Davis awards, but very few give her jobs, says Cohen. I gave her a job.

Cohen still considers Davis wonderful woman, very brave and courageous. Im sorry it worked out to be an unfortunate experience. Of her decision to go public with her story, he says, Shes a fighter, thats why shes been around so long. Now shes fighting for her next film.
Conservative Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been caught up in more ethics scandals. This time it involved a family member, his wife, Ginni Thomas, and former Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway.

A recent ProPublica report revealed that real estate billionaire and conservative donor Harlan Crow had paid thousands for Clarence's grandnephew's school tuition, which was not disclosed.

According to a Washington Post report, conservative activist Leonard Leo also sent payments worth tens of thousands of dollars to Ginni. He did not disclose her name, and it was allegedly for consulting work she did decades ago.

The payment allegedly happened in 2012, when Clarence was already a Supreme Court justice. Leo had reportedly instructed Conway, who was still a Republican pollster then, to bill a non-profit group he advises and use that money to pay Ginni.

The Washington Post reported that this happened the same year that a brief was filed to the Supreme Court in a landmark voting rights case by the Judicial Education Project, which involves Leo.

The Judicial Education Project was the same non-profit Conway billed and used the money to pay Ginni. Leo had been a key figure in a network of conservative non-profit organizations working to get conservative judges nominated.

He reportedly told the future Trump adviser to "give" Ginni "another $25K." However, in the paperwork obtained by WaPo, he emphasized that she should have never mentioned Ginni by name.

Leo was a longtime friend of the Thomas family. These payments have shown that he arranged money taken from a non-profit organization and paid the wife of the Supreme Court justice, with that non-profit having a vested interest in a case that the high court was handling.

READ NEXT: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas Sold Property to Billionaire Republican

Billionaire Harlan Crow Paid for the Tuition of a Relative of Clarence Thomas

Clarence Thomas is not only involved in what appears to be a bribery scandal involving his wife but also his own bribery scandal involving Harlan Crow.

The new ProPublica report revealed that the billionaire paid not just for the justice's lavish vacations and his mother's home but also for the tuition and admission of his grandnephew to an exclusive boarding school.

Clarence reportedly sent his teenage grandnephew to Hidden Lake Academy, a private boarding school in Georgia. The Thomases reportedly raised the teen as a son, and he grew up with them in Washington, D.C.

The tuition in that boarding school was expensive and cost over $6,000 a month. However, the Supreme Court justice did not foot the bill, as Harlan Crow reportedly paid for tuition.

A former school administrator also confirmed that the payments extended throughout the school year, with the administrator saying, "Harlan picked up the tab."

Clarence Thomas' Friend Defends Embattled Supreme Court Justice

Former Trump administration official and friend to Clarence Thomas, Mark Paoletta, released a statement arguing that the Supreme Court justice was not required to report the tuition.

According to the New York Times, he noted that a 1978 law ruled that judges must disclose gifts to dependent children, who are defined as "a son, daughter, stepson or stepdaughter." However, his grandnephew did not count as he was neither of these.

Paloetta noted that the attacks on Clarence, his family, and Harlan Crow were "malicious." However, ethics experts said Crow's tuition payments for the justice's grandnephew were reportable.

READ MORE: January 6 Hearing: Donald Trump Pressured Justice Department to Call 2020 Election 'Corrupt'

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Wife of Justice Clarence Thomas Received Thousands in Hidden Payments, Washington Post Reports - CNN
More than 2,000 migrants were reportedly abducted in Mexico by Mexican drug cartels and smuggling gangs last year.

ABC News Go reported that the Mexican government confirmed the count Friday following a successful search for 10 Colombians kidnapped in northern Mexico earlier this week.

Around 2,115 migrants were freed by Mexican authorities in 2022, according to Mexico's national immigration agency. The migrants were all kidnapped by Mexican drug cartels and smuggling gangs.

Cartels and gangs charged crossing migrants fees just to cross Mexico, and some were even kidnapped for ransom. Several complaints of missing migrants prompted police to launch a probe and find numerous migrants being held without consent.

On Friday, prosecutors in the state of Sonora said they had found 10 Colombians who went missing Tuesday in the city of San Luis Rio Colorado, across the border from Arizona. Officials noted that the Colombians were found at a gasoline station in good state of health.

Last month, a reported kidnapping of about 20 people in the state of San Luis Potosi led police to launch a massive search by air and land, and they discovered not only the 20 migrants they were looking for but some 80 more migrants being held against their will by the same smuggling gang.

READ NEXT: US Nearing Max Capacity to Hold Migrant Children

Migrants Abducted in Mexico

In March, four U.S. citizens were kidnapped after gunmen opened fire on their vehicle in the northern Mexico border city of Matamoros, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said.

PBS News reported that the four U.S. citizens were traveling in a white minivan with North Carolina license plates. The FBI San Antonio Division Office said the vehicle came under fire after it entered Matamoros.

The agency noted that the four Americans were dragged, placed in a vehicle, and taken away from the scene by the gunmen. At the time, the agency offered a $50,000 reward for the victims' release and the suspects' arrest.

Mexican officials believe that the attack was a case of mistaken identity, as Gulf Cartel members initially thought that the American citizens were Haitian drug smugglers. Matamoros is home to warring factions of the Gulf Cartel.

Mexican authorities eventually rescued the group in a house some 30 minutes from where the cartel members attacked them. However, two of the four American citizens died.

Mexican Drug Cartels Abducted Migrants

A 2020 report finds that criminal organizations have abducted 80% of migrants waiting for hearings in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. On the other hand, 45% have suffered violence or violation.

At the time, around 57,000 migrants are waiting for their asylum hearing date. The notorious Zetas group controlled Nuevo Laredo for years. It is now the territory of the cartel's offshoot, which is the North East Cartel.

Zetas group's rival, the Gulf Cartel, is now knocking at the gates, supported by the Jalisco Cartel, according to The Guardian. More than 100,000 people in Mexico are still missing without any explanation, CNN reported.

The Mexican defense ministry previously said that hundreds of security forces were heading to the border to ramp up the area's defense and protect the "well-being of citizens."

Mexican authorities have been accused of being slow in finding the disappeared victims, with a human rights expert saying that the government's attempt to address organized crime can also be the reason behind the disappearances.

READ MORE: Smugglers Spread Misinformation to Migrants Through Social Media

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Migrants Tell of Mass Kidnappings in Mexico - From Reuters
Brazilian Pedro Rodrigues Filho, alias "Lil' Pedro Killer" or "Pedrinho Matador," is one of Brazil's most infamous serial killers, who was convicted of 71 murders.

He reportedly killed frequently and proudly wore his intentions in a tattoo that read: "Mato por Prazer," or "I kill for pleasure," when translated to English, according to Toronto Sun.

Based on his own estimate, Rodrigues Filho claimed to have killed more than 100, including his father and brother-in-law. Even prison did not stop him from killing, as he murdered some 40 fellow convicts while in jail.

But last March, the deadliest serial killer in Brazil, who reportedly spent more than 30 years behind bars before eventually freed, was killed in a hail of bullets outside his house in the city of Mogi das Cruzes in Sao Paulo state.

According to police, a black car approached Rodrigues Filho while he was on his home's porch before a gunman shot him four times. He died at the scene.

Local media reported that a relative of the serial killer said the masked gunmen told her that it had nothing to do with her, so she should go and take her daughter "inside."

As Rodrigues Filho lay dying on the pavement, one of the killers made sure he died by slitting his throat before they fled the scene. Investigators have yet to identify the killers or determine the possible motive for the murder.

READ NEXT: Mexico's Spiciest Dishes

Crimes of Brazil's Deadliest Serial Killer Pedro Rodrigues Filho

Born in Minas Gerais in 1954, Pedro Rodrigues Filho killed his first victim when he was only 14 years old and went on to kill for more than three decades.

Rodrigues Filho reportedly killed his own father as a form of revenge for murdering his mother. While growing up, Rodrigues Filho and his mother were heavily abused by his father, who ultimately killed and dismembered his wife.

The Brazilian serial killer promised to avenge her mom's death, fulfilling his promise even while he was in prison. According to The Sun, Filho, while in jail, stabbed his father 22 times using a machete before he cut out his still-beating heart and chewed it.

"I cut out a piece of his heart. I chewed it... But I didn't swallow, I chewed and threw it over the body," he said about this gruesome act.

Rodrigues Filho is believed to have killed 10 people by the time he reached 18. These included the vice mayor of his town, who fired his father, and a security guard who he believed framed his father.

From a young age, Rodrigues Filho reportedly had the urge to kill, which manifested when he was 13. After killing the mayor, his father, and the guard, he also murdered another man he believed was the real thief behind a theft he was previously accused of.

After this killing, the Brazilian serial killer fled to Sao Paolo. While on the run in Sao Paolo, he met a woman named Maria Aparecida Olympia and proposed to her. It was while Rodrigues Filho was in the middle of a crime spree of robbing the slums and murdering a drug dealer.

As an act of revenge, the dealer's fellow gang members brutally murdered his then-pregnant fiance. However, this just spurred the serial killer to commit even more acts of violence.

He later went on to torture and kill more people in order to get his revenge. He later found out that the gang was organizing a wedding. He went to that wedding and killed many of the gang's members. That all happened when he was still 18.

Brazil's Most Notorious Serial Killer, Pedro Rodrigues Filho, Became a YouTuber Before Death

Pedro Rodrigues Filho was finally captured in 2003 and was eventually convicted. However, even in prison, he continued to kill fellow inmates, particularly rapists.

While convicted of 71 murders, his killing of some 40 inmates while in prison reportedly increased his sentence to 400 years. The Brazilian serial killer was initially sentenced to 127 years in prison.

According to Grunge, Brazil does not have a lifetime sentence, and an inmate cannot serve more than 30 years in jail for each crime. Thus, Rodrigues Filho was able to walk free in 2007 after serving a total of 34 years in prison.

The Brazilian serial killer eventually created a YouTube channel called "Ex-Pedrinho Matador," which means "former Pedrinho killer." His subscribers reached more than 30,000.

In a 2020 podcast, Pedro Rodrigues Filho was asked whether he would kill again. He answered: "No. I would only kill again if someone came to take my life or the lives of people I love, who are my family."

He added: "Nobody said it would be easy, I assume my mistakes, I paid my penalty, so I don't need to be judged or defended by anyone anymore."

READ MORE: Serial Killer From Colombia, Luis Gravito, up for Parole

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: A Serial Killer in Brazil Who Killed Up to 100 Criminals - From VonSeay
In the United States, Mother's Day is usually celebrated on the second Sunday of May. However, this is different for many countries in Latin America.

Like in the US, Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Honduras also celebrate Mother's Day every second Sunday of May, with this year falling on May 14.

According to the Latin American Alliance, countries in Latin America that also celebrate Mother's Day in May include Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Belize, which all celebrate the occasion on May 10.

On the other hand, Paraguay celebrates it on May 15, the same day when the country also celebrates its Independence Day. Bolivia, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, and Haiti also celebrate Mother's Day in May.

Bolivia celebrates the occasion on May 27, while Nicaragua celebrates it on May 30. Both the Dominican Republic and Haiti celebrate Mother's Day every last Sunday of May. Spain is celebrating the occasion on the first Sunday of May.

As for those countries in Latin America that do not celebrate Mother's Day in May, Costa Rica celebrates it on August 15, while Argentina celebrates it every third Sunday of October. The last to celebrate is Panama, which is every December 8.

READ NEXT: Miss Universe 2023: Miss Bolivia Sued for 'Racist and Discriminatory' Remarks

Mother's Day in Latin America

While these countries in Latin America celebrate Mother's Day on different dates, the core of the occasion is still the same. Everyone celebrates their mothers for all that they have done for us. However, each country still has a few differences, and the date they celebrate it plays a factor.

Peru

Peru's Mother's Day celebration is more of a spiritual affair. While it celebrates the occasion at the same time as the US and other countries, the country usually has feasts and all sorts of celebrations for their mothers.

For those who are not with us anymore, Peruvians often visit the graves of their deceased mothers, clean them, and decorate them with flowers.

Mexico

In Mexico, celebrations of Mother's Day are done in churches, schools, and all over the city. Children usually start the day by serenading their mothers with the traditional song, "Las Mananitas," or "The Dawn, sometimes accompanied by a hired mariachi band.

Brazil

Brazil takes it a bit more seriously, as Mother's Day is considered second to Christmas. It is treated more as a commercial holiday in the country, with people buying gifts for their mothers, like perfumes, clothes, or expensive dinners.

Panama

Panama celebrates Mother's Day alongside the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8. According to Sherlock Communications, it is more of a religious affair in the country than a commercial one, like in Brazil and other countries.

Argentina

Like in Panama, Mother's Day in Argentina also celebrates the Virgin Mary. However, it is also a bit commercialized as mothers are given gifts and treated to expensive dinners.

READ MORE: Peru Orders Mexico Ambassador to Leave

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Celebrating Mother's Day in Latin America Amid Coronavirus - From Al Jazeera English
The suspect in the Texas mall shooting, which has left the nation in mourning as eight people were killed and seven others were injured, has been identified.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott and President Joe Biden reacted differently to this tragedy that happened on Saturday at Allen Premium Outlets.

Abbott appeared on "Fox News Sunday" and blamed it on the lack of mental health treatment and called for more prayers. He pointed out that such mass shootings also happen in states with stricter gun control laws.

"What we've seen across the United States over the past year or two... is an increased number of shootings in both red states and blue states. Shannon, we've seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws as well as states with very strict gun laws," the Republican governor told host Shannon Bream, according to ABC News.

However, data shows that red states that vote heavily on Republicans and are against gun control, such as Texas, have much higher gun deaths than blue states run by Democrats, which have tighter gun control laws, Forbes reported.

On the other hand, Biden has pointed out that the shootings were done by a man who used an assault-style weapon. He then renewed his calls to ban such weapons and more legislative changes.

"Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar. And yet, American communities have suffered roughly 200 mass shootings already this year, according to leading counts," the president said.

"More than 14,000 of our fellow citizens have lost their lives, credible estimates show. The leading cause of death for American kids is gun violence," he added.

READ NEXT: Donald Trump Georgia Election Probe: 8 Fake Trump Electors Accept Immunity Deals

Texas Mall Shooting Suspect Identified

According to CBS News Texas, the gunman has been identified as Mauricio Garcia. The 33-year-old gunman was initially mistaken for his younger brother, Christian Garcia, who has a lengthy criminal record.

Police and FBI agents searched the home of the suspected gunman's parents in Dallas early Sunday. They also searched a nearby Extended Stay where he had recently been living.

Some neighbors of his parents told CBS News Texas that Garcia lived for years in his parents' home, and they would see him come and go to work dressed in a uniform similar to a security guard's.

Police said the suspect reportedly had no serious criminal record. This latest Texas mall shooting is already the 242nd mass shooting in the United States this year. Seven people are still hospitalized, including a 5-year-old child.

Man Who Witnessed Texas Mall Shooting Speaks Up

Steven Spainhouer, who rushed to save those who were dying right after the shooting at the Allen Premium Outlets started at around 3:36 p.m, spoke with CBS Texas and said the victims had horrific injuries and that they had to be loaded into police cars as ambulances would not have been able to take them to trauma centers fast enough.

He was asked if he thought he had saved any lives, and Spainhouer noted that he was not sure but confirmed that three of the people he tried to save had died.

"When the multiple shots happened, my heart just dropped," he told the outlet. "I was on the phone with 911 and I was telling them we have a mass casualty incident."

Police believe that the suspect acted alone, but his motive remains unknown at this time.

READ MORE: Trump Rape Trial Witness Says Donald Trump Groped Her

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WATCH: Video Captures Gunfire During Allen, Texas, Mall Shooting - From CNN
In a shocking incident on Sunday morning, a vehicle plowed through a crowd near a migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas, leaving seven people dead and several others injured, authorities said.

The tragedy unfolded near the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center around 8:30 a.m., which serves as a refuge for Texas migrants and the homeless, according to the Independent.

Lt. Martin Sandoval, a police spokesman, confirmed that 10 individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals while seven were pronounced dead on the spot. He said investigators are still probing whether it was deliberately done.

The driver, who has been arrested, remains unidentified. He was charged with reckless driving. However, Sandoval said additional charges would likely be pressed against the accused.

READ NEXT: Texas: 12 Migrants Trapped Inside Train Boxcar

Texas Car Crash Caught on Surveillance Footage

As authorities continue investigating the horrific incident near the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center in Brownsville, Texas, new details have emerged about the victims and the moments leading up to the tragedy.

According to Victor Maldonado, director of the shelter, around 20 to 25 migrants, who had recently arrived from Venezuela and were seeking refuge, were waiting for a bus across the street from the shelter when the incident occurred.

During an interview with CNN, Maldonado said surveillance footage captured a car speeding recklessly and crashing just 30 feet from where the migrants were sitting.

The crash resulted in a gruesome scene, with body parts scattered around the area. Maldonado rushed outside with a shelter employee to investigate and assess the situation.

Maldonado claimed the police had already taken his copy of the security footage. Sandoval noted that the motorist, a Hispanic man, refused to cooperate with authorities.

Police had already taken his fingerprints to determine his identity after he gave multiple names, which takes more time, according to Sandoval.

Sandoval noted that a toxicological test would also be performed on the driver, adding that it was unknown how long it would take for authorities to get those results.

He noted that the Border Patrol was assisting the police in Brownsville in their investigation.

The Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center in Texas

Sandoval said the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center had been used to house immigrants temporarily, KRDO reported.

Brownsville lies in extreme southern Texas, across the Rio Grande River, near the border with Mexico. According to the census of 2022, approximately 95% of the city's residents are of Hispanic or Latino origin.

Brownsville has declared a state of emergency due to the surge of thousands of migrants, many of whom are from Venezuela, in the past few weeks.

Title 42, a Trump-era immigration restriction law that allowed immigration agents to return migrants to their home countries promptly, is set to end just days after the crash happened.

After the restrictions are lifted on May 11, officials have predicted a rise in immigration in the coming weeks.

READ MORE: Missouri: 6-Year-Old Kansas Boy Fatally Shot

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Brownsville: Seven Dead in Texas as Car Strikes People - From BBC News
First Lady Jill Biden was in the United Kingdom for King Charles' coronation on Saturday as a proxy for her husband, President Joe Biden.

However, conservatives condemned what she and her granddaughter wore during the ceremony as she and Finnegan Biden showed solidarity with Ukraine by wearing coordinated yellow and blue dresses to the ceremony.

Blue and yellow are the colors of the Eastern European country currently being invaded by Russia, and many Republicans were not happy and made an issue out of the show of solidarity.

These include former Donald Trump attorney Jenna Ellis, who recently admitted to lying about the 2020 elections being stolen from the former president. She noted that Jill was "disrespectful" to the United States because she wore Ukrainian colors, not American.

"Jill Biden was disrespectful to the United States and her office of First Lady by wearing the colors of the Ukraine flag with her granddaughter instead of representing our flag and our nation... First Lady Melania would have been pure elegance and patriotism," Ellis tweeted.

Jill Biden was disrespectful to the United States and her office of First Lady by wearing the colors of the Ukraine flag with her granddaughter instead of representing our flag and our nation.



First Lady Melania would have been pure elegance and patriotism.  Jenna Ellis  (@JennaEllisEsq) May 6, 2023

Other conservatives like Lavern Spicer echoed this.

Jill Biden is not who should be representing America abroad. https://t.co/GXEQI6k5O6  Lavern Spicer  (@lavern_spicer) May 6, 2023

However, according to Newsweek, Democrats came to Jill's defense and called out her critics. The liberals pointed out that this showed how Republicans stand up to Russian President Vladimir Putin as a wedge to campaign against Joe Biden.

They also lauded Jill Biden for showing solidarity with Ukraine in their time of need.

Last time I checked, blue is still a color on our flag. Her granddaughter wore yellow. Being technical about it, the pair together are representing by BOTH countries.

You would think with all the troubles you have with the Bar Associations you would focus on that.  Daunya Moore-Keeney (@DaunyaK) May 7, 2023

Comrade Jenna! Vladimir Putin loves your contribution to the Motherland!



Bravo!  Greg Dicovitsky  (@dicov12) May 6, 2023

No, she wasn't disrespectful. As a red-blooded American, I think that what she did is WONDERFUL. And how elegant is it of you to be criticizing a lady's clothing? Men seem to be able to wear whatever they want without being criticized for it.  Christopher Edwards (@ChrisEdwardsNY) May 6, 2023

Do you see how efficiently MAGA uses the US supporting its allies in Europe and standing up to Putin as a wedge to campaign against Biden? Do you see how closely aligned trump and Putins interests are? And how they have been since putin illegally helped trump take power in 2016? https://t.co/Lu6JZdzmsq  Luke Zaleski (@ZaleskiLuke) May 6, 2023

First Lady Jill Biden with her granddaughter at the coronation ceremony of King Charles the Third.



The language of colors  pic.twitter.com/JLtgr39G7q  Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) May 6, 2023

READ NEXT: Mother's Day in Latin America: How It's Celebrated in Different Parts of the Region

Jill Biden Reflects on King Charles' Coronation

Following the coronation ceremony, the first lady told CNN in a phone interview that King Charles' coronation made her think about "the importance of traditions, the importance of oath." She added that the moment was surreal.

"You can't imagine that moment where you actually see the crown being placed on the head of the king and then on the head of the queen... It's really surreal to see and experience that moment," she told the outlet before stressing how important the relationship is between the United States and the United Kingdom.

As for Joe Biden, he congratulated King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their coronation and also stressed how important the friendship between the two countries.

Congratulations to King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their Coronation. The enduring friendship between the U.S. and the U.K. is a source of strength for both our peoples.



I am proud the First Lady is representing the United States for this historic occasion.  President Biden (@POTUS) May 6, 2023

Jill Biden and Granddaughter Also Attended Coronation Lunch at Downing Street

Jill Biden joined UK Prime Minister Rishi in a coronation lunch at Downing Street on Sunday. Jill and her granddaughter were spotted talking with some of the most influential figures in the world, as well as Ukrainian families and youth groups.

Sunak's wife, Akshata Murty, guided the first lady around the guests' tables. Reuters reported that street parties are being held all over the United Kingdom as part of a long weekend to celebrate King Charles' coronation.

READ MORE: Mike Lindell, MyPillow CEO, Ordered to Pay $5M for Losing 'Prove Mike Wrong' Election-Fraud Challenge

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Jill Biden Joins Rishi Sunak for Coronation Big Lunch - From The Independent
Tragedy struck in Chico, California, in the early hours of Saturday when a drive-by shooting left one teenager dead and five others injured, according to the Daily Mail.

The victims, aged 17 to 21, were fired upon in the parking lot of an apartment complex after attending a large gathering in the area. The deceased has been identified as 17-year-old Justina Stubbe.

A 19-year-old male, a 21-year-old woman, and a 17-year-old girl were all taken to the hospital, but their wounds were not thought to be life-threatening. Meanwhile, two men, ages 18 and 20, were brought to a local hospital and later released.

The reason behind the attack is yet to be confirmed, said Chico Police Lt. Terry Tupper. While it remains unclear if any of the victims were targeted specifically, Tupper stated that the shooting was not random.

In the wake of the tragedy, friends and family members of the victims have expressed their grief and shock. Clint Lobo, a parent of one of the victims and two others, has spoken out against the violence, stating that the shootings must stop.

READ NEXT: California Girl Dies Following I-880 Shooting

The California Party Shooting

Police in Chico, California, responded to a call of gunfire at a house party on West Seventh Street at around midnight on Saturday, per Action News Now.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers found shell casings from two gunshots in the front yard.

The suspect allegedly fired a gun after being told to leave the party. Following the shooting, the suspect purportedly hit one person in the head with the weapon, causing minor injuries.

Meanwhile, another individual suffered a facial gash after being struck by a thrown bottle.

"At this time, it doesn't appear the suspect who discharged the firearm and struck the victim in the head with the firearm was associated with the victim who was injured by the bottle," police said.

Both victims were treated at the hospital for minor injuries.

California Party Shooting Was an Isolated Incident, Police Said

The police had been called to the location twice, according to KIRO 7, adding that the police had responded to the same address 30 minutes earlier after receiving a report of a person brandishing a firearm.

Police stated during a news conference on Saturday that the shooting looked to be an isolated incident and posed no ongoing threat to the neighborhood.

Police have not revealed details about the shooter's identity.

The shooting reportedly occurred around 1:27 am, culminating in events that began at 12:27 am.

Police were alerted to a house party three hours before the tragic California party shooting occurred when the hosts had asked someone to leave the event because of their behavior.

Police in Chico, California, closed several roads on Saturday as they searched for evidence following a violent altercation that injured two people, per ABC23.

At least three parked cars in the area were found to have damaged windows and bullet holes.

The incident occurred near California State University in Chico, a city of around 101,000 residents located 90 miles (145 kilometers) north of Sacramento.

Lt. Brian Miller described the area as a "hot point" for police service calls. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further details are yet to be released by authorities.

READ MORE: California Police Arrest Former UC Davis Student

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: 17-year-old killed, 5 hurt in Chico house party shooting - From ABC 10
Arusha  PARTNER States within the East African Community (EAC) have been challenged to allocate more funds on agriculture.

This is in a bid to cushion the sector from the pangs of persistent drought caused by climate change.

Speaking on the sidelines of the sixth EAC Budget Summit hosted by the Eastern and Southern Africa Small Scale Farmers Forum (ESAFF) here midweek, the forum's chairperson Hakim Baliraine noted that it was high time the partner states started allocating sufficient budget on agriculture in the spirit of Malabo Declaration.

"When this is done, issues of hunger and malnutrition will be things of the past," observed Mr Baliraine.

In the draft budget for financial year 2022/2023, East African Community partner states allocated agriculture a paltry $6,750 (0.01 per cent) out of total contributions of $59.3 million.

Over the past five years, development partners have funded more than 90 per cent of the sector's budget.

In his submissions, ESAFF Uganda Programmes Manager Andrew Adem said the EAC region was short of scoring the 7.28 benchmark since the initiation of the biennial review.

He attributed the setback to poor positioning of Agriculture as a priority sector in most partner states.

"And this explains the low budget allocation to the sector hence the lack for funding to fast-track the processes," he opined.

He also hinted on the limited engagement with citizens, particularly small-scale farmers, who have practical approaches that would contribute to achieving some of the commitments.

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Mr Adem also cited limited collaborations in responding to disasters and calamities that would affect the achievement of the commitments in the region like Covid-19, Fall Army Warms, and Climate Change effects among others.

"It is fair to say that some countries in the EAC that have shown more commitment to transforming agriculture are likely to meet the Malabo commitments by 2025 while other countries may not," he added.

Apart from playing a role in ensuring food and nutrition security, agriculture provides critical support to other sectors such as manufacturing through the provision of raw materials.

However, the sector is facing various constraints such as adverse weather conditions; insect and crop diseases; slow implementation of flagship projects to support irrigation; and slow progress in promoting value addition.
The MTV Awards 2023, initially scheduled to be live but switched to a prerecorded broadcast due to the writers' strike, handed the top prize for the outstanding film to "Scream VI" on Sunday night, per The Hollywood Reporter.

Courteney Cox and the killer Ghostface, who accepted his trophies via prerecorded video, also won for their respective performances in the film.

While accepting the award for best film, Ghostface joked that the iconic question "What is your favorite scary movie?" may now be answered.

Three awards, including best show, went to "The Last of Us," another significant winner.

Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey were recognized as the best combo, and Pascal was chosen best hero. Two prizes also went to the Netflix series "Stranger Things."

Tom Cruise, lead of Top Gun: Maverick, was awarded for outstanding performance in a film while sitting in a fighter jet's cockpit. Jenna Ortega won the best performance award in a show for "Wednesday."

READ NEXT: Oscars 2023

The MTV Awards 2023 Ceremony Without Host

Winners were announced on Sunday, May 7, 2023, during a telecast of the MTV Movie & TV Awards without a red carpet or host, per Us Magazine.

Drew Barrymore was scheduled to host a live event. On May 4, however, she dropped out because of the Writers Guild of America strike.

"I have listened to the writers, and to truly respect them, I will pivot from hosting the MTV Movie & TV Awards live in solidarity with the strike. Everything we celebrate and honor about movies and television is born out of their creation," Barrymore said.

She also said that until a solution is found, she will patiently wait at home, inviting everyone to observe the proceedings.

She added that she cannot wait until next year to be a part of this and honor everything that MTV has accomplished by producing a show in which the audience votes on the recipients of several awards.

Meanwhile, Drew Barrymore is scheduled to host in 2024.

MTV confirmed that the awards presentation would no longer be televised live on May 6, one day after the Writers Guild of America declared that its members would picket outside the show at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

Following the host's prerecorded sketches, viewers were treated to sneak peeks at numerous future flicks, including The Little Mermaid.

MTV Movie and TV Awards 2023 Full Winners' List

Check out the complete list of winners below, from classic categories like Best Kiss and Breakthrough Performance to new ones like Best Kick-Ass Cast and Best Reality On-Screen Team, according to Variety.

Best Movie

"Scream VI"

Best Show

"The Last of Us"

Best Performance in a Movie

Tom Cruise, "Top Gun: Maverick"

Best Performance in a Show

Jenna Ortega, "Wednesday"

Best Comedic Performance

Adam Sandler, "Murder Mystery 2"

Best Hero

Pedro Pascal, "The Last Of Us"

Best Villain

Elizabeth Olsen, "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness"

Best Kiss

Madison Bailey & Rudy Pankow, "Outer Banks"

Most Frightened Performance

Jennifer Coolidge, "The White Lotus"

Best Fight

Gale Weathers vs. Ghostface, "Scream VI"

Best Breakthrough Performance

Joseph Quinn, "Stranger Things"

Best Duo

Pedro Pascal & Bella Ramsey, "The Last Of Us"

Best Kick-Ass Cast

"Stranger Things"

Best Song

"Carolina," Taylor Swift

Best Musical Moment

"Come Back Home" in "Purple Hearts"

Best Music Documentary

"Selena Gomez: My Mind & Me"

Best Docu-Reality Show

"The Kardashians"

Best Competition Series

"RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars"

Best Host

Drew Barrymore, "The Drew Barrymore Show"

Best Reality On-Screen Team

Ariana Madix, Katie Maloney, Scheana Shay, LaLa Kent, "Vanderpump Rules"

Comedic Genius Award

Jennifer Coolidge

READ MORE: Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes

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WATCH: Every Acceptance Speech at the MTV Movie & TV Awards 2023 - From MTV
DEAR AMY: I am a 16-year-old girl.

School is okay (Im a sophomore), but one thing I notice is the fact that I am really judgmental. I tend to have bad and judgmental thoughts about others.

For example, if I see a girl wearing revealing clothing, I will call her a slut or a whore inside my head. Or if I see a boy wearing pajamas or slides or crocs at school, Ill think of him as lazy and sloppy.

I also have relatively high standards when it comes to having boyfriends. Most of my standards have to do with clothing and shoes.

Even though Ive never been in a relationship before, I will judge the person by the way they look and if they dont match my standards, then I wont give them a chance.

There is this senior who was talking to me, but since he didnt match my standards, I didnt want to be seen with him around school.

Im one of those people who knows what they dont want, rather than what they do want.

Im trying to figure out what is wrong with me, but I guess Im so used to being the way I am, its hard for me to stop.

Ive been constantly beating myself up over the fact that Im judgmental and not giving people a chance, but I feel like if I dont change, then I wont be able to have a relationship.

What should I do?

 Judgmental Teenager

DEAR TEENAGER: First of all, I admire your motivation to change.

Being judgmental is a universal human trait. When you think about it, using your judgment about others is an important evolutionary survival tool. If you dont know someone personally, you need to rely on your instincts and judgment to discern whether you are safe around them.

I agree with you that the next stage in your development should be to work on the harsh voice in your head in order to let others in  no matter what theyre wearing. When you give others a chance, you are really giving yourself a chance  to grow into the kind of person you want to be.

Can you change? Of course you can! Like all change, it will take time, practice, and persistence.

I do need to offer a corrective observation, and I hope you will pay attention.

The words you use to describe other girls (slut and whore) are rude and sexist, while the words you use to describe boys are much less offensive.

This is an example of how misogyny has permeated our culture, and you  a smart and capable girl  should not perpetuate it, even inside your head.

Using more neutral language will help you to behave differently.

***

DEAR AMY: I was disappointed by your response to Bewildered Daughter in North Carolina, who had forged a relationship with her toxic birth mother, who had given her up for adoption as a baby.

You never mentioned her real parents  the people who raised her!

 Upset

DEAR UPSET: The letter writer also did not mention her parents, which is why I focused only on her specific question.

***

MORE FROM ASK AMY:

Ask Amy: Should I send my fathers wife a Mothers Day card?

Ask Amy: Should a woman contact her nephews if it means sacrificing her relationship with her brother?

Ask Amy: For my rapidly aging parents, one-hour monthly video calls are a lifeline Its like magic to them to see us all on their laptopAmy Dickinson

Ask Amy: I told my husband his brother makes me uncomfortable and I dont want him around our kids

Ask Amy: Mother blames her pregnant daughter for her loneliness

***

(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)

2023 Amy Dickinson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Hardly a day goes by without a visit to the West Easton industrial complex fire site by borough police Chief Robert Mahady.

The April 4 fire at the 1550 Lehigh Drive complex destroyed a $9 million warehouse and the inventory of all the tenants, including unknown hazardous materials.

The fire was just so devastating, and the scene remains dangerous and colossal, Mahady said last week.

The cause of the fire remains undetermined, according to Pennsylvania State Police spokesman Trooper Nathan Branosky. State police fire marshals are scheduled to return for a scene examination, when theyll bring in heavy equipment to move the debris to look for ignition sources, he said.

West Easton Mayor Dan DePaul said the scene examination is tentatively scheduled for mid-May. Branosky said insurance company investigators for the property owner and tenants will join authorities during the examination.

Tests and observers for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection havent found any air or water contamination from the release of toxic materials at the fire. However, Palmer Township Fire Commissioner Steve Gallagher said his department lost 400 feet of fire hose when hazardous materials spilled onto the ground and mixed with water runoff that pooled against the hose. He said he hopes the property owners insurance covers the $10,000 hose replacement cost.

Overhead view a month after these industrial buildings burned down at 1550 Lehigh Drive in West Easton. The fire was on April 4, 2023.Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com

Property owner Chaim Greenbaum said he doesnt yet have a damage or a cleanup cost estimate. He cant start moving debris until after the scene examination.

DePaul said the building had sprinklers but the water main feeding them from a main on 13th Street was disconnected. Fire companies had to bring in tankers and keep feeding water reservoirs at the site, as well as draw water from the adjacent Lehigh River. The fire burned for a day and a half and kept flaring up for days afterward.

Easton Suburban Water Authority Executive Director Craig Swinburg said the fire service has been shut off to the complexs sprinkler system since at least January 2007.

Any repair or replacement of the fire service from the control valve onto the property would be performed by the property owner, he said.

Greenbaum said the previous owner told him about a problem with that water service but he never looked into it beyond that. The issue didnt stop the sale from going through in 2021, nor did it stop Greenbaum from getting insurance, he said.

The borough didnt inspect the property when it was sold. The borough contracts with Barry Isett and Associates for code inspections. A message left for comment with that company wasnt returned.

Greenbaum said he is meeting with architects and engineers with an eye toward rebuilding the site.

In addition to law enforcement and the DEP, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry continues to investigate the fire. DePaul said theres no indication L&I will issue any fines or penalties.

The department is unable to provide additional information as the investigation is ongoing, said Labor and Industry Department spokesman Trevor Monk.

Mahady meets frequently with state officials to discuss the fire. He and the mayor cant thank enough the 20-plus responding agencies for their help extinguishing the blaze despite a lack of hydrants and a non-working fire suppression system.

I remain in awe of the work performed by our fire department and surrounding agencies, Mahady said. The leadership on their part was flawless. Im thankful to no end that no one was hurt or killed as a result of this fire.

24 1 / 24 West Easton industrial fire April 4, 2023

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A Chinese citizen studying at Lehigh University was tricked into wiring $50,000 to a person posing as a Chinese government official, according to Bethlehem police.

The student received a phone call April 29 from a person who claimed to be a Chinese law enforcement official, police said. The caller was allegedly 24-year-old Bowen Lyu of Gainesville, Florida, police said.

Lyu accused the victim of sending a package home that contained items related to money laundering, according to police. According to police, Lyu knew personal information about the victim: his parents names, his address and his driving record.

Lyu allegedly told the victim to send him $150,000 and return to China to be arrested. Then, the student sent Lyu $50,000 to resolve the issue, police said. Fearing hed been scammed, the student called police. Police tracked down Lyu through Lyus banking records, court records say.

Lyu is charged with theft and dealing with unlawfully obtained proceeds.

The victim lives on Birkel Avenue in Bethlehem.

Lyu was arraigned Monday by District Judge Susan Hutink and sent to Northampton County Prison in lieu of posting $200,000 bail.

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The Emergency Rental Assistance Program in Northampton County will stop accepting applications on May 15, the county announced Monday.

Northampton Countys announcement comes nearly nine months after Lehigh County announced its Emergency Rental Assistance Program would close in September.

Both programs, launched at the height of the COVID pandemic, have helped thousands of local residents who were in danger of being evicted or having necessary utilities cut, officials have said.

Our Department of Human Services and Department of Community and Economic Development worked together to avert a myriad of evictions through rent and utility assistance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure said in a news release.

Since 2021, Northampton Countys ERAP system has processed more than 10,000 applications for rental, hotel and utility assistance and distributed more than $27 million to renters and landlords, the county stated.

Lehigh Countys program dispersed more than $38 million in federal funding to eligible households before it stopped last year.

In the past, experts said that the emergency rental assistance programs helped divert possible historically high rates of eviction in the state and across the Lehigh Valley.

Prior to the pandemic, the Lehigh Valley showed a gross need for new eviction filing and rental assistance programming.

In a 2021 report by the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, both Lehigh and Northampton counties had the third and seventh highest rates of eviction filings in the state, but when emergency funding became available both counties did a good job teaming up with local agencies to get the public assistance to residents, Executive Director of North Penn Legal Services Lori Malloy said.

They did a really good job. There were challenges for a program that had never been attempted before, but they did a good job at gathering a network of agencies to help, Malloy said. Its a shame that there isnt more money.

Without the assistance programs, its possible eviction filing rates will climb back to pre-COVID rates.

Data collected by Malloy and shared with lehighvalleylive.com show eviction filings in Northampton County have remained relatively low compared to pre-pandemic levels. Lehigh Countys eviction filing rate has continued to grow, however.

In 2022, Northampton County saw 2,727 eviction filings, compared to 2,816 in 2018; and Lehigh County saw 6,849 eviction filings, compared to around 2,300, according to Malloys records.

The numbers dont speak to how many people were actually evicted or how much money households that received assistance may have gotten, Malloy noted. And with Allentown being the most populous, urban center in the region, population increases may also have skewed the numbers, she said.

Now that the ERAP programs are exhausted, what tenants should be on the lookout for are assistance programs that were around before the pandemic and that are still helping residents, Malloy said. Theres less money there, but since before the pandemic, theyve learned a lot, she said.

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Glenn Epps can be reached at gepps@lehighvalleylive.com or glenn_epps_on Twitter.
Ugandan journalist Agather Atuhaire has been named the winner of the EU Human Rights Defenders' Award 2023.

The award, which was presented during a ceremony on Thursday at the residence of the Netherlands Ambassador in Kampala, is given annually by the European Union and Norway to recognise an outstanding contribution by a human rights defender in Uganda.

Atuhaire was chosen as the winner in recognition of her outstanding recent work to increase transparency in public life, hold public institutions accountable and defend the rights of people who have been affected by corruption and mismanagement in public service.

In the past year, she has effectively used social media platforms to expose mismanagement at the Law Development Centre, to hold to account the National Water and Sewerage Corporation for problems with its billing system and to raise concerns about mismanagement in the Parliament of Uganda.

Receiving the award, Atuhaire said, "It is a great honour to receive this prestigious award. I am grateful to the EU for recognising my work and the work of other human rights defenders in this country. I am grateful to all the human rights defenders out there and to my fellow finalists Richard and Solomon who are also doing incredible work."

Speaking during the award ceremony, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Uganda Her Excellency Dr. Karin Boven said "Agather is a good example of the role an independent journalist can play in the fight against impunity and corruption."

Also shortlisted for this year's award was Richard Lusimbo and investigative journalist Solomon Serwanjja.

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Speaking before the award announcement, European Union Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek said "these leading human rights defenders demonstrate that universal values are not just words that sound nice in a speech, but that they have a real life meaning and can transform people's lives."

Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) are individuals who, individually or with others, act to promote and protect universally recognised human rights and fundamental freedoms. These include civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights.

The work of HRDs has a positive impact on a country's development and is essential for encouraging the respect for human rights as recognised by international human rights standards and agreements.

Past winners of the EU HRD Award include Gerald Kankya (2012) of Twerwaneho Listeners Club, Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala (2013) former Coordinator of Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ), the three joint winners (2014) Gladys Canogura of Kitgum Women Peace Initiative, Assistant Commissioner of Police Christine Alalo, Head of the Uganda Police Family and Child Protection Unit, and Mohammed Ndifuna, Director of the Human Rights Network Uganda, Dr. Livingstone Sewanyana (2015), Founder and Executive Director of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) and Robert Sempala (2016) of the Human Rights Network of Journalists (HRNJ) and Pamela Angwech (2017) Founder and Executive Director of the Gulu Women's Economic Development and Globalization (GWED-G) among others.
Stockertowns former police chief is facing felony forgery and other related offenses after he allegedly fraudulently attempted to obtain documents that would exempt him from state laws prohibiting the concealed carrying of a firearm, the Northampton County District Attorneys Office said.

Aside from the felony charge, 44-year-old Eric Schwab of Nazareth is charged with misdemeanor counts tampering of records; unsworn falsification to authorities (two counts) and tampering with public records in the case.

Schwab resigned in September 2022 after joining the boroughs force in March 2013. He became chief in 2020 and the subject of an internal investigation among Borough Council members, beginning in May 2022. Minutes from the Sept. 12, 2022 Borough Council meeting state Schwab resigned to avoid disciplinary charges that were set to be announced against him.

In his resignation letter, Schwab then cited, ... it appears the injury to my thumb will preclude me from performing my full duty with the Department for the foreseeable future, according to the minutes.

The Northampton County District Attorneys Office said their case involving Schwab began shortly after.

Numbers listed for Schwab were disconnected Monday. Borough Council President Amy Richard called Schwab a stain on law enforcement following the allegations. The charges make it more difficult for others in law enforcement to do their jobs, she added.

Both Stockertown Mayor Rosemarie Wenzelberger and board vice president Kathleen Zdonowski didnt immediately return voicemails left for comment. Borough solicitor Gary Asteak said Stockertown is fortunate Schwab resigned.

He shamed the uniform and the public trust, Asteak said about the allegations.

Schwab on Dec. 29, 2022 attempted to obtain a retired law enforcement officer qualification card from the Northampton County Sheriffs Office, which allows retired officers an exemption from most state and local laws prohibiting the carrying of a concealed firearm. Schwab then allegedly presented his drivers license, a partially-completed retired law enforcement officer qualification card, a retired law enforcement identification card, and a $5 money order.

The sheriffs office did not proceed with the issuance of the qualification card due to concerns about Schwabs eligibility, authorities said.

To receive a retired law enforcement officer qualification card, the retired officer must have separated from service with a public agency as a law enforcement officer in good standing. Due to the circumstances surrounding Schwabs separation from employment with the Stockertown Borough Police Department, sheriffs then contacted county detectives, authorities said.

Schwab was on leave as of May 23, 2022 and did not actively work as a police officer for the borough from that date until his formal separation in September 2022. A Pennsylvania State Constable in September 2022 served Schwab with a written statement of charges, which included an offense of engaging in disobedience of order or conduct unbecoming of an officer, according to the district attorneys office.

Sheriffs presented county detectives with documents received from Schwab during his application process, which allegedly included: an identification card with the signature of a former, part-time police officer with the Stockertown Borough Police Department; and a qualification card, indicating it was issued by a sworn police officer and certified law enforcement firearms instructor.

Investigators determined the former, part-time police officer whose signature was on the Schwabs identification card was not employed by the borough at the time he presented the document to the sheriffs, authorities said. Additionally, the signature on Schwabs identification card did not match the former part-time officers signature and was forged, according to authorities.

Investigators also determined Schwab allegedly fraudulently obtained the identification card with the forged signature, and presented that card to the certified law enforcement firearms instructor. The certified law enforcement firearms instructor reported to detectives he was unaware Schwab resigned from the Stockertown Borough Police Department while under formal investigation, according to authorities.

The instructor additionally told investigators he did not inspect the identification card in full, and he was unaware it contained the signature of a former borough officer before he signed the qualification card brought to him by Schwab.

Schwab was arraigned Monday before District Judge Daniel Corpora, who set bail at $15,000 unsecured. Schwab is due back in court for a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for 9 a.m. May 22.

Court records did not indicate attorney information for Schwab.

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Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
The culling of deer in Laois and other counties looks set to be recommended following the completion of a survey the results of which were disclosed at a recent meeting in Portlaoise.

The Department of Agriculture has issued a statement that points to strong support for a cull due to the impacts of a rise in the deer population around Ireland highlighted by a national survey.

The Department said the consultation received over 1,500 submissions from people all over the country from a wide variety of backgrounds.

The Department says the first major public consultation into the impact of the Irish deer population carried out on behalf of the Deer Management Strategy Group found that over 80% of respondents said the national deer herd is damaging biodiversity.

A statement said the main concerns regarding the impacts of deer to emerge from the consultation were:

biodiversity loss/damage (82%);

damage to agricultural crops / grazing (81%);

road safety issue (80%);

preventing the establishment of new forests (71%);

a role in the epidemiology of TB in cattle (67%).

In order to tackle the problems raised by deer the following were the main preferred options:

86% of the surveys respondents said culling of deer is needed

78% said support for landowners to manage deer is required

69% said the domestic venison industry should be expanded.

The Department said the Deer Management Strategy Group will now progress the process by convening a series of stakeholder working groups to develop recommendations to managing the deer population effectively. It said these working groups will focus on development of the venison market, encouraging collaboration among stakeholders, necessary legislative changes, training and education initiatives and land management solutions.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, along with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh OBrien, launched a new public consultation late last year to inform the next phase of the development of the Strategy Group.

Minister McConalogue commented on the work of the Group.

For agriculture as well as our nature ecosystems, it is important that we aware of the need for the sustainable management of our national deer population. These include the protection of biodiversity, newly planted forestry, pasture and crops, road safety, animal health, public health, and not least the health and welfare of the deer themselves.

I am delighted to see the Deer Management Strategy group, chaired by Teddy Cashman, progress this important work with officials from my department, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and Coillte, he said.

The Green Party's Minister Malcolm Noonan, from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage also commented.

The development of an effective deer management strategy for Ireland is a vital tool in our efforts to protect and restore nature and biodiversity, particularly native woodlands, as well as for agricultural crops and road safety. Im mindful that its success very much depends on the ongoing commitment of all stakeholders, and as such I would like to acknowledge the broad representation and constructive input at the recent stakeholder meeting. This bodes well for the next steps in this process, he said.

The Deer Management Strategy Group group, chaired by Teddy Cashman, hopes to publish the final report in the early Autumn.
Irish Water (IW) / Uisce Eireann has said that it is currently monitoring water issues in both Newbridge and Athy.

On Friday last, the organisation insisted that water treatment plants supplying the two areas are operating satisfactorily with no known issues.

Now, although IW advises that the water supply to customers in Kildare 'is compliant with regulatory standards and is safe to drink', it added that sampling will now be intensified in the affected areas 'in order to gain a greater understanding and further protect public health, ensuring that the water continues to be compliant with drinking water regulations and is safe to drink.'

Kevin Love, Regional Asset Operations Lead at Uisce Eireann said, We are currently investigating the source of the intermittent taste and odour issues mainly in the Newbridge and Athy area and continue to test the water to determine the root cause."

In Newbridge, Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender has said that, in response to the reports in the town, he has submitted a formal request under the Access to Information on the Environment legislation to IW.

He elaborated: "I am eagerly awaiting their response and will share the information with you as soon as it becomes available.

"Your health and wellbeing are of utmost importance, and I will continue to follow up on your concerns to ensure that our water supply is safe and clean across Kildare South."

Cllr Pender also said: "If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me."

The IW customer care helpline is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact IW on Twitter http://twitter.com/iwcare with any queries or concerns.

For real time updates, please visit the http://wtr.ie/SupplyInfo section of the IW website.

Customers experiencing taste or odour issues can find out more information by visiting https://www.water.ie/help/water-quality/unusual-taste-or-smell/
A man residing in County Kildare avoided jail sentence for assaulting a female garda, following the intervention of his ex-partner in the court case.

The case was heard at Naas District Court on Thursday, May 4 last.

Last year, the court was told that the garda answered a phone call relating to a report of a domestic violence incident, and came down to the home.

When she got there, the man became angered at the presence of gardai.

According to the garda, he 'actively resisted arrest' and shoved her against a garda car, causing her to injure her back.

It was heard that the man and woman's children were present in the house at the time of the incident.

After being reminded of the details of the case, Judge Desmond Zaidan said that he had sympathy for their children, and called the man's actions on the night 'cowardly'.

In her victim impact statement, the garda said that she had to attend a chiropractor following the incident, and was unable to train for a number of months.

Defending solicitor Tim Kennelly previously said at a court session in relation to the case, which was heard back in March, that his client was struggling with an addiction to alcohol at the time of the offences.

He added that the man and the woman are going to divorce, and he has since left the family home.

Shortly after Mr Kennelly spoke, the man's ex-partner became emotional and asked Judge Zaidan not to send the man to prison, for the sake of their children.

"I don't want to tell them that their dad has been sent away to prison, I am begging you," she said through tears.

After listening to her plea, Judge Zaidan remarked that he remembered her from the last court session, where he praised her for her 'not seeking revenge' against her ex-partner.

He said that he would not send him to prison, and instead opted to fine the man a total of 2,000 for his offences, which would go towards the man's former partner, in order to allow her to look after their children.

The judge gave the man three months to pay the fines, and warned him that if he did not pay, he would be sent to prison for one year.
An application for bail was refused for a foreign national accused of trying to hit security men with his car, and also for allegedly biting a female garda.

Ivan Matuashvili, with an address given as the Citywest Hotel in Citywest County Dublin, was accused of committing the offence on April 26 last.

On Thursday, April 27 last, it was heard at Naas District Court that the 39-year-old was denied entry into a centre for asylum seekers.

This allegedly prompted him to drive into two security people.

It was previously reported that the accused is a Russian national. However, on the latest date (Thursday, May 4), it was noted that while he speaks Russian, he is in fact from Georgia.

Gardai objected to bail being granted for the accused citing the seriousness of the allegations against him, as well as the 'strength of the evidence against the defendant.'

Although defending solicitor David Powderly maintained that his client would abide by any bail conditions, and was willing to find accommodation and notify gardai of said accommodation, Judge Zaidan ultimately sided with the gardais argument calling it 'well-founded and sustainable in law.'

He refused bail for Mr Matuashvili, and the case will return to court on May 18, which is when directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions are due.
Students from Drumshanbo Vocational School, County Leitrim scooped two awards at this years Student Enterprise Programme National Finals for Most Effective Use of Social Media and they took first prize in the overall Junior Category which was an amazing achievement. The Finals of the Local Enterprise Office initiative took place on Friday the 5th of May in Croke Park.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Leitrim, the winning students in the Junior Category were Freya Whitney, Alexandra O'Looney and Amy Keaveney from Drumshanbo Vocational School, who worked under the guidance of their teachers, Yvonne Traynor and Sharon Feeney.

Their student enterprise was called Handled With Hearts and they produce a farm safety lifting mechanism called the Grasper, which helps a farmer to open the lid of a slatted tank in a safe way.

The Grasper is a wonderful, innovative product which is a game changer for health and safety on the farm. Handled with Hearts also won a second national award for Most Effective Social Media Campaign which was a fantastic achievement.

There were 82 student businesses in contention across three main categories for the Final in what is Irelands largest entrepreneurship programme for second level students.

The initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities throughout the country, saw 25,000 students from almost 500 secondary schools across the country take part.

In the Intermediate Category first place went to Clip Clop Designs  Moyne Community School, Longford.
At a meeting with members of Sligo County Council and officials on Friday last Transport Minister Eamon Ryan fully endorsed the development of the SLNCR Greenway from Enniskillen to Collooney and the Sligo Greenway from Collooney to Belaghy and also pledged his full support for the extension of the Sligo Greenway from Charlestown to Claremorris.



Minister Ryan stated that this Greenway will strategically connect North and South to develop a 100km Greenway for the north west. Extending the Greenway further on to Claremorris will add another 33km making it one of the longest Greenways in the country.

He also stated that there will be no new railway line north of Claremorris in the medium term however the line will be protected for future generations should there be need economically or population wise for a railway line in the future.



Leas Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Marie Casserly welcomed this positive development stating that 'now we can finally compete with Greenways in the south of the country and locals and visitors alike will benefit hugely from this investment in infrastructure for decades to come.'



'In addition,' she said, 'the developement of a 133 km greenway from Claremorris to Enniskillen will protect the route in public ownership, ensuring that its potential use for rail is always an option in the future.'
Kampala  Uganda's anti-homosexuality bill, if signed into law, could lead to the withdrawal of foreign aid and threaten goals to end HIV/AIDS by 2030, advocates warn.

Uganda's parliament passed the revised Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA), which criminalises homosexual conduct, with minimal amendments this week (2 May).

The legislation was first passed at the end of March but revised in April after President Yoweri Museveni returned it to parliament for amendments.

The bill includes a punishment of life imprisonment for same-sex sexual conduct and up to ten years behind bars for attempted same-sex sexual acts. It also imposes the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality" and criminalises the "promotion" of homosexuality, which many people fear will encourage homophobia.

UNAIDS had warned that passing the bill into law would jeopardise progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS and undermine fundamental human rights including the right to health and the right to life.

"Uganda's new Anti-Homosexuality bill is an outrage," said Winnie Byanyima, executive director of UNAIDS.

"Access to timely and quality health care is a human right - sexual orientation should not determine one's rights."

Anne Githuku-Shongwe, director of the UNAIDS support team for eastern and southern Africa, said Uganda had made "excellent progress" in tackling the AIDS pandemic. "This new bill, if passed into law, would undercut that progress," she warned.

Human rights 'disaster'

According to a study published in The Lancet, HIV prevalence is significantly higher among men who have sex with men (MSM) and in African countries with laws that criminalise same sex relationships.

"If it becomes law, it will increase stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer] people and men who have sex with men, further limiting prevention and treatment services," said Richard Lusimbo, director-general of Uganda Key Populations Consortium, a human rights organisation.

Lusimbo explained that the bill, if passed into law, would be a disaster to the human rights of LGBTQ people, to public health and the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The US government has threatened to withdraw funding for Uganda through its President's Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) if the law is passed.

"At this time, we are reviewing the possibility that the AHA, if signed, might prevent us from providing lifesaving prevention, care and treatment services equitably to all Ugandans receiving PEPFAR support," said a US State Department spokesperson.

PEPFAR's annual HIV/AIDS response investment in Uganda is about US$400 million.

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Despite the pressure from the US and other governments, there is speculation that President Museveni will most likely sign the bill into law. However, the power of ascension of a bill does not lay primarily with the president.

The Ugandan parliament can also pass the bill into law if the president does not assent to or veto a bill after it is passed by parliament within 30 days or if the bill is returned to parliament twice.

In his speech on April 22, at conference themed 'Protecting African culture and family values', President Museveni thanked members of the Ugandan parliament for passing the bill.

"It is good that you rejected the pressure from the imperialists," he said, reflecting his support for what has been described by activists and advocates as a draconian law.

The bill is setting the pace for other African nations as countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana and others indicate readiness to introduce similar bills in solidarity with Uganda.

Charles Brown, executive director of Preventive Care International (PCI), a Ugandan non-governmental organisation that focuses on HIV, says the bill is harsh and not well thought through. He fears it will further entrench inaccessibility of health services for people in same sex relationships.

"Already, the landlady of one of my offices in western Uganda called me saying that she was told that our organisation promotes homosexuality and she is scared of being arrested," Brown told SciDev.Net, fearing eviction.

"We hope that the president doesn't sign it into law," he added.

This piece was produced by SciDev.Net's Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.
A group of mourners work to construct a wooden cross memorial at the site of a fatal mass shooting a day earlier at Allen Premium Outlets on May 7, 2023 in Allen, Texas. STEWART F. HOUSE / AFP

United States President Joe Biden renewed his call on Sunday, May 7, for a national assault weapons ban and other gun safety measures, a day after eight people were murdered at a Texas shopping mall in the latest mass shooting to shake the nation.

Responders, distressed witnesses and police described scenes of panic and horror in Allen, where video footage shared online showed the shooter exiting a sedan in an outlet mall parking lot on Saturday and firing a semi-automatic rifle at people walking nearby. An officer on an unrelated call nearby quickly responded and "neutralized" the shooter, police said.

Seven people were pronounced dead at the scene, including the shooter, while two others died in hospital, authorities said. Three people were in critical condition as of Sunday morning, the Allen Police Department said. The Texas Department of Public Safety identified the suspected shooter as Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old from Dallas. While the police's statement did not offer further details about Garcia's background or motive, multiple media outlets said investigators were probing his social media posts, which allegedly showed an interest in radical right-wing ideology, including white supremacy and neo-Nazism.

Gun 'epidemic'

"Eight Americans  including children  were killed yesterday in the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation," Biden said in a statement Sunday morning. He ordered US flags lowered to half-staff "as a mark of respect for the victims" and repeated his call for lawmakers to take action against a gun "epidemic."

Flowers and a stuffed animal are left at the scene the day after a shooting at Allen Premium Outlets on May 7, 2023 in Allen, Texas. STEWART F. HOUSE / AFP

"Once again I ask Congress to send me a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines,"Biden said. He also demanded lawmakers require universal background checks for gun purchases and end legal immunity for manufacturers' whose weapons are used in attacks. "I will sign it immediately. We need nothing less to keep our streets safe," Biden said in a statement.

The attack is the latest in an alarming trajectory of deadly US gun violence. Barely a week earlier, a man shot and killed five neighbors in Cleveland, Texas, after one of them asked him to stop firing his rifle in his yard at night while a baby slept nearby.

Several other people have also been gunned down in recent weeks over petty disputes or common mistakes, such as knocking on the wrong door or getting into the wrong car.

'Empty chairs at dinner tables'

Awash in firearms, the US already endured 199 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a non-governmental organization that defines a mass shooting as four or more people wounded or killed. "Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables," Biden said, as he berated his political opponents for inaction. "Republican members of Congress cannot continue to meet this epidemic with a shrug," he said. "Tweeted thoughts and prayers are not enough."

The gunfire at Allen Premium Outlets, 35 miles (55 kilometers) north of Dallas, erupted on Saturday afternoon when it was busy with weekend shoppers, police said. The officer in the mall "heard gunshots, went to the gunshots, engaged the suspect and neutralized the suspect," said chief Brian Harvey of the Allen police department. Biden joined local officials in hailing the quick actions of police for likely saving lives.

The police chief later said authorities believe the unidentified shooter "acted alone." CNN showed a cropped photograph of the apparent gunman dead on the ground, wearing tactical gear, extra magazines, and an AR-15-style rifle at his side.

'Unfathomable' carnage

Governor Greg Abbott, who attended a vigil on Sunday evening for the victims, said "the hearts of all Texans are with Allen." Earlier in the day, the Republican had called the shooting an "unspeakable tragedy," and refused to discuss repeated demands by Democrats for tightened gun restrictions. "People want a quick solution. The long-term solution is to address the mental health issue" including the increased "anger and violence" in America, he told Fox News Sunday.

Steven Spainhouer, a former police officer, said he was confronted with horrific images when he rushed to the scene and performed CPR on victims before emergency responders arrived. Finding one female victim on the ground, "I felt for her pulse, pulled her head to the side, and she had no face," Spainhouer told CBS News. He found another victim's son lying alive under his dead mother and "covered head to toe" in her blood. "It's just unfathomable to see the carnage," he said.

With more firearms than inhabitants, the US has the highest rate of gun deaths of any developed country  49,000 in 2021, up from 45,000 the year before.

Le Monde with AFP
GRADUATES of The Overdose Prevention Peer Learning Experience (TOPPLE) in Limerick have been heralded as future life-savers.

Mayor of Limerick Francis Foley recently welcomed graduates of the Novas programme, and their families, to City Hall where he presented them with certificates of achievement to mark their graduation from this life saving training programme.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Una Deasy, CEO of Novas said: We are so proud of the effort these clients have put into developing their skills and we know from experience that these clients will go on to save lives in their community.

Understanding how to reduce harm, keep people safe and share the knowledge they have learned will have huge knock on impacts.

Novas Health and Recovery Manager Julie McKenna added: TOPPLE was developed by Novas to teach clients how to recognise the signs of a potential overdose, how to alert emergency services, how to provide first aid and how to support someone who experienced this, in order to prevent a reoccurrence.

Three in five drug related deaths occurred while a person was alone.
MEMBERS of the public in Limerick are being advised that gardai do not and will not issue court summons by email.

The warning follows a recent incident locally which saw a woman receive an email which claimed to be from gardai.

"A woman who I met recently told me that she had received an email stating that the online sites she visited were monitored and she was discovered to have viewed child pornography and sex trafficking sites. She knew that this was complete rubbish but read the email anyway, it went on to say that since she was guilty of being on these sites she would have to pay a fine," said divisional crime prevention officer Sergeant Ber Leetch.

According to gardai, the woman was informed she could pay the 500 fine immediately by return email and would, therefore avoid going to court and avoid the publicity.

She was informed that she should reply to the email immediately as there was only a small window of opportunity for her to

pay and avoid court.

"Summons are not sent by email, they are served by a member of An Garda Siochana in person or by registered post. I can see why a person would get a shock and maybe reply to the email but of course, this is exactly what the scammers want you to do," said Sgt Leetch.

The garda advice is to delete such emails and to never click on the links.
GARDAI found cocaine and heroin on a Limerick man who was acting suspiciously, Kilmallock Court heard.

Niall Hogan, aged 54, of Ashbrook Lawn, Ennis Road, Limerick city pleaded guilty to the possession of drugs at St Ita Street, St Marys Park on September 28, 2022.

Inspector Gearoid Thompson, prosecuting, said gardai were on duty in St Marys Park on the day.

They observed a male acting suspiciously. A search was conducted and heroin valued at 50 and 20 of cocaine found, said Insp Thompson.

The court heard Mr Hogan has 42 previous convictions including two section 2 assaults, one section 3 assault, four possession of drugs, seven no driving licence, six no insurance, 12 thefts, one criminal damage, robbery, two burglary and two hit and run.

Con Barry, solicitor for Mr Hogan, said the last offence dates back to 2015.

It was eight years ago. He is on a methadone programme, said Mr Barry, who handed in letters to Judge Patricia Harney regarding clean urine samples.

He gets tested every time he goes in. He had one slip up. He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity. He is dealing with his addiction, said Mr Barry.

Judge Harney said this is heroin in St Marys Park.

He has 42 previous convictions. Your client cant afford slips. This is heroin, said Judge Harney, who imposed a two week prison sentence.

Enough is enough. If there was not an early plea I would have taken a different course, said Judge Harney.

Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.
A TEAM of students from Colaiste Chiarain in Croom are set to represent Ireland in the European final of this year's CanSat competition.

CanSat is an initiative of the European Space Agency that challenges students from all over Europe to build and launch a mini satellite the size of a soft-drink can.

The students conduct a primary mission to beam and receive altitude and temperature data to a laptop on the ground. They have added their own ideas through the Secondary mission to measure the quality of the air, barometric pressure, Global Positioning System and implementing a custom parachute system to ensure a safe landing for the CanSat.

The team from Colaiste Chiarain won the coveted national title in County Laois at the weekend and will go on to represent Ireland at the 2023 European CanSat Finals.

The competition is co-funded by the European Space Agency and Science Foundation Ireland and is coordinated by MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory.

The winning team have been sponsored by MIDAS (The Industry Association for Microelectronics and Electronic Systems Design in Ireland) and AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) to support their travel to Europe.

Congratulating the winning team from Colaiste Chiarain, Alison Boyle, ESERO Ireland Supervisor said: They should be immensely proud of themselves. Winning the National Final of the CanSat competition is a tremendous achievement, particularly when the level of competition is as high as it was this year."

Ireland has performed admirably in European finals in recent years, with a team from Marist college Athlone winning the competition outright in 2018.

The team from Colaiste Chiarain, which is made up of students from various academic backgrounds, has been working on the project over the past few months ahead of the national competition.

"Their dedication and hard work has paid off, as they have successfully overcome challenges and obstacles during the design and testing phases," said teacher Conor Power.
THE High Court has been told An Bord Pleanala will not be contesting a legal challenge against the decision to grant permission for the expansion of Aughinish Alumina's operations in west Limerick.

Last September, An Bord Pleanala approved the company's proposal to expand the area where bauxite residue  a waste product from the alumina production process - is stored.

The Russian owners of the plant, close to Askeaton, have stated the expansion will allow it to continue operating up to 2039.

However, two separate High Court challenges against the decision to approve the proposed expansion were subsequently lodged.

Environmental Trust Ireland was granted permission to launch Judicial Review proceedings last November while Futureproof Clare was granted leave earlier this year.

At the High Court this Monday, Mr Justice David Holland, was told An Bord Pleanala was conceding one of the points put forward by Futureproof Clare in its challenge.

According to the organisation, this relates to the failure of An Bord Pleanala to take into account a submission from An Taisce which was submitted during the planning process.

Solicitor Eoin Brady of FP Logue, who represented Futureproof Clare commented. "This is a significant result for Futureproof Clare, who had considerable concerns with regard to the process by which An Bord Pleanala granted permission for what would in effect be an extension in the duration of the Aughinish Alumina facility, with an increase in the associated environmental emissions and waste created and deposited on the banks of the Shannon Estuary. It shows the important role that judicial review plays in ensuring that those with responsibility for carrying out environmental assessment of major industrial development such as that at Aughinish do so in a legally compliant way.

Limerick-based Solicitor, Michelle Hayes, who is also President of Environmental Trust Ireland has also welcomed the decision of An Bord Pleanala to concede the case.

In a statement, she added: "It was clear from an early stage that An Bord Pleanala had difficulty preparing a defence (in the case). No defence was ever received from Aughinish Alumina Ltd."

The legal proceedings have been adjourned to later this month when the High Court is expected to make a formal order quashing the decision to grant planning permission.

It is not yet clear if the matter will be referred back to An Bord Pleanala for reconsideration.
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NEW DELHI : Authorities in Delhi have sought to quash Pernod Ricard's court challenge against a decision to reject its city liquor licence, saying the French company did not meet the necessary requirements, a legal document showed.

Pernod's brands, which include Chivas Regal and Absolut vodka, have not been available in Delhi for more than six months. Pernod has challenged in the Delhi High Court Delhi governments April 13 decision to reject its sale licence citing ongoing investigations against the company.

India's federal financial crime agency has accused the company of illegally making profits by giving false information to Delhi authorities in 2021, and violating rules by financially supporting retailers in exchange for stocking more of its brands.

Pernod has repeatedly denied wrongdoing.

Pernod last month asked a judge to push Delhi city to grant it a licence, saying no wrongdoing had been proved. But a new court filing on Monday by the Delhi government, which is not public but has been seen by Reuters, showed the city has asked the judge to quash Pernod's case.

The French company can appeal the rejection with senior Delhi officials, the city said in the filing, which said Pernod "has not fulfilled conditions for grant of licence".

In a statement to Reuters, Pernod said it will follow due process to obtain the Delhi license, adding: "We are keen to re-start supplies as soon as possible."

The spirits giant has told the court in a filing it has suffered "massive losses" because of the situation.

India contributes 10% of Pernod group sales. The Delhi business accounts for 5% of Pernod's sales in the country and the company is "hopeful" it can obtain the licence, CFO Helene de Tissot told Reuters last month.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a show cause notice to Go First, asking the low-fare airline to explain the reasons behind its inability to run operations within 15 days. The aviation regulator also suspended the airline from accepting new bookings and halted the sale of tickets.

The fate of the airlines flying permit will depend on its response to the notice, the regulator said.

The aviation regulators actions and the governments plan to allocate GoAirs flight slots to rival airlines if operations remain suspended for a month have cast doubts on Go Firsts future after the airline approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for insolvency resolution earlier this month.

In view of the sudden cancellation of flights and initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process under IBC by Go Airlines (India) Ltd (Go First), DGCA has issued a show-cause notice to Go First under the relevant provisions of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, for their failure to continue the operation of the service in a safe, efficient, and reliable manner," the regulator said in a statement on Monday.

A decision on the continuation of Go Firsts air operator certificate (AOC) will be taken on the basis of the response submitted by them, the regulator added.

The validity of an AOC or flying permit to an airline is conditional to an airline company operating flights with a minimum of five aircraft in its fleet. While Go First still has the requisite number of aircraft in its fleet, the Wadia Group airline suspended operations after voluntarily filing insolvency proceedings in the NCLT on 2 May.

The aviation regulator has also asked the airline, which has stopped bookings till 19 May, to stop taking any further bookings.

Go First has been directed to stop booking and sale of tickets directly or indirectly, with immediate effect and until further orders," the regulator said in a statement.

In its NCLT petition, the airline blamed engine maker Pratt & Whitney for unserviceable engines, resulting in a 30-50% grounded fleet since 2020, causing losses to the tune of 10,800 crore on account of revenue loss and additional expenses.

While the airline sought an interim moratorium on its assets, including aircraft and domestic slots, by the NCLT bench, the bench had stated that an interim moratorium was not valid in the case as it is only implemented in the cases of personal debtors.

Meanwhile, the aircraft lessors opposed the admission of the plea in NCLT as it would have been an impediment in the recovery of planes from Go First.

On 4 May, eight lessors wrote to DGCA seeking the de-registration of 20 aircraft under the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorisations. Under this, the regulator is required to de-register aircraft within five days from the name of a third party in cases like the default of lease rentals.

The case for the revival of Go First seems to be weakening after the latest DGCA directive. While the airline was suspending operations in a graded manner and was not terming its cancellation of flights, this draws the curtains on the operations of Go First, at least temporarily," said an airline executive who did not want to be identified.

The airline used to carry around 30,000 daily air passengers, with a market share of nearly 7% until March 2023. Established in 2005, the airline had a fleet of 54 aircraft, out of which more than 25 aircraft were grounded due to faulty engines supplied by Pratt & Whitney.

Meanwhile, the government is also contemplating starting the process to award flight slots of GoAir to other airlines in case Go First does not resume operations in a months time, Mint reported Monday.

This is also one of the steps necessary at this stage to balance the aviation market in India, which is growing significantly with record domestic travel demand. Slots at domestic airports will soon be adjusted among those airlines which have the ready capacity to deploy and crew available, just like on the lines of Jet Airways," a government official said on a condition of anonymity.

In a response to Mint's query, a Go First spokesperson said that the airline had stopped taking bookings before the DGCA issued notice to reduce the inconvenience to the passengers.

"Go First is taking all possible measures to reduce passenger inconvenience. As regards the DGCA Notice, the same will be responded to, in due course," the spokesperson added.
Residents of Kigungu Village in Division B, Entebbe Municipality, Wakiso District, have threatened to demonstrate against the poor state of their road.

The road that covers 13km from is the only emergency exit direct from Entebbe International Airport to Kitooro town has recently worsened due to the rainy season making it nearly impassable.

Business people, motorists , fishermen among others use this road to access Kigungu landing site but have to struggle through potholes, a slippery surface slipperiness and sometimes results in accidents as well as leaving many vehicles in poor mechanical condition.

Sulait Ssempebwa, councillor LCV Entebbe Municipality, said that despite Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) claiming to spend shillings 478 million per year on maintenance of Kigungu road, it remains in a bad state.

"We are ready to mobilise all our people to protest over the state of this road. First of all as leaders we have contacted everyone including Uganda Civil Aviation Authority; they told us that they have never stopped anyone from working on Kigungu Road and the road has a lot of potholes, slippery and has no lights. We call upon UNRA (Uganda National Roads Authority) to avail the report on Kigungu road such that we look for the way forward ," Sulait said.

Sulait said that during the 2017 launch of the expansion of Entebbe International airport, President Museveni proposed that Kigungu road be constructed but up to now nothing has been done.

"UNRA officials told us that the road would be worked on in December last year. Later, they said January this year but we have not seen anyone come. This road has since scared investors and business people who land at Entebbe international airport and attempt to use this road. We have parked our motor vehicles due to the bad state of this road. We have even lost jobs because of this road," Otieno Sunday, boda boda cyclist, Kigungu said.

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Entebbe Municipality Mayor, Fabrice Rulinda said several letters have been submitted to UNRA (Uganda National Roads Authority) and Ministry of transport and Works to secure funds to start constructing 13km Kigungu road among other roads in Entebbe.

Fabrice also said the Municipality has already started on the construction several roads that cover a range of 11 kilometres in Entebbe including Lake Victoria Road, Ham Mukasa road, Goers Road, Jinja road, Kampala road, Njeru Road among other roads.

"We have been pushing to ensure Kigungu road is priotised but unfortunately we have no funds to construct this road. But also our people need to understand that right now we can't do much on that road because of the rainy season that's making it impassable these days," Rulinda stated

Member of Parliament for Entebbe Municipality, Micheal Kakembo Mbwatekamwa also accused UNRA (Uganda National Roads Authority) for the delayed and improper plans towards constructing Kigungu Road.
As the civil aviation regulator asks Go FIRST airline to provide refunds to passengers impacted by suspension of the airlines flights, some travel agents associations and service providers are contemplating applying to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to seek pending dues, three people aware of the development said.

The airline has already been directed on 4 May to process refunds as per regulatory provisions," said a senior government official on condition of anonymity. We have directed them to issue refunds to passengers if passenger so desires, instead of credit shell."

The airline owes about 900 crore to travel service providers and passengers for advance flight bookings.

The airline has issued credit shells, which can only be used to book Go FIRST flights, to passengers as well as travel agents after the sudden halt of flights since 3 May.

The issuance of credit notes has irked passengers and travel agents worldwide, as these credit notes are of no use since the airline has suspended operations.

This is a very big concern for us, as the airline is trying to take away our and peoples money paid to them for bookings by moving for insolvency," Jyoti Mayal, president, Travel Agents Association of India told Mint. It will set a very bad precedent, if the airline succeeds. We are tracking the situation in court and also speaking to our lawyers. We as an association are considering taking legal recourse, including moving NCLT."

Some travel agents are planning to move independently to NCLT to ensure their payments are protected.

There should be a mechanism that ensures money paid by passengers is refunded in case of an airline failure," said Ajay Prakash, president, Travel Agents Federation of India. This is happening too often in India and passengers and travel agents too lose a lot of money. Some of our members are contemplating to move to NCLT since we as an association cannot move but will provide all assistance to our members, if required."

Passengers should insist on actual refund since credit notes are worthless and use social media to amplify their claims, Prakash added.

The government, too, needs to seriously look at a mechanism like an insurance scheme to protect consumers in case of airline failure, he said.

The company has stated in its filing at NCLT that it has already cancelled 4,118 flights in the last 30 days with 77,500 passengers.

Travel agents will not be the first ones to take legal recourse against the airlines.

While the airline is awaiting an urgent admission of its plea in the NCLT, two pleas have already been filed against the airline. This includes one plea by a transport services provider SS Associates Services Private Ltd with respect to a claim of 3 crore and another by a pilot claiming dues of more than 1 crore.

Today, the airline also reached out to the NCLT seeking urgent order on its plea for moratorium after eight lessors approached the civil aviation regulator to de-register 20 aircraft on 4 May. The airline also told the tribunal that lessors are beginning to take possession of aircraft and it is now allowed access to the airplanes for maintenance.

Meanwhile, the travel industry is also approaching the government with a request to protect their money with GoAir by asking the airline to withdraw their application at the NCLT.

We would want the ministry of civil aviation to resolve this. Go FIRST is saying that they will give the refund in the account of the agent and that cannot be used to refund passengers," Rajiv Mehra, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators said. The result of this whole episode would be that air fares would be abnormally high and that would remain the case during the entire summer, which is a heavy domestic season.
MUMBAI/NEW DELHI : The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Ltd (NIIF), the state-backed investment fund, plans to launch its second fund-of-funds (FoF) to raise $1 billion to invest in the funds of local asset managers, three people familiar with the development said.

While two of the three people said the second FoF is expected to be finalized and presented for shareholders approval soon, the third person noted that the plan is still in its initial stages and is expected to be launched later this year.

The proposal for the new mega fund comes amid reports that managing director and chief executive Sujoy Bose, who has been at the helm of NIIF since its inception in 2016, may quit.

NIIFs first FoF received commitments of $600 million, with an aim to invest in up to 10 private equity funds managed by experienced fund managers in India. A FoF aims to raise money and invest it in other funds rather than directly in the assets themselves. This enables the FoF to diversify its portfolio and spread the risk across asset classes, industries, and markets.

In NIIFs case, its portfolio funds would each invest in Indian companies across sectors, including green infrastructure, affordable housing, infrastructure services, agri-business, healthcare and education. So far, FoF Fund I has committed to deploying 90% of its corpus across seven funds, including the latest in Lighthouse India Fund IV AIF, where it proposed to invest 400 crore in January.

Besides Lighthouse, the first FoF has backed Green Growth Equity Fund, HDFC Capital Affordable Real Estate Fund 2, Multiples Private Equity Fund III, Somerset Indus Healthcare India Fund II, Arpwood Partners Fund I and YourNest Innovative Products VC Fund III.

Maybe one or a couple more investments are likely to take place from the remaining capital (from the FoF Fund I)," one of the people cited above said.

Email and messages sent to NIIFs Bose and the companys spokesperson did not elicit a response till press time.

NIIFs FoF is one of the largest India-dedicated fund-of-funds programmes.

Launched in 2018, NIIFs FoF I is backed by the government and has received commitments from multilateral institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Asian Development Bank, and New Development Bank.

Its other foreign limited partners (LPs) include US International DFC, retirement fund AustralianSuper, Singapores Temasek and Canadian pension funds like CPP Investments, Ontario Teachers Pension Plan and PSP Investments. Its domestic LPs are Housing Development Finance Corp., ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and State Bank of India.

NIIF is also set to launch its maiden InvIT for its road assets, with an aggregate portfolio of approximately $2 billion. It plans to raise growth capital of $500 million from both global and domestic investors, The Economic Times reported in March, citing multiple people aware of the development.

A quasi-sovereign investment platform, NIIF manages over $4.3 billion of equity capital commitments across three funds  Master Fund, FoF and Strategic Opportunities Fund.

The Strategic Opportunities Fund, through which NIIF takes direct stakes in companies, until last year raised around $1.1 billion, half of its targeted corpus of $2 billion. It has backed FirstCry, an e-commerce company specializing in baby and kids products, and electric two-wheeler company Ather Energy. It recently marked its first exit from Manipal Health Enterprises by selling a stake to Temasek.

Meanwhile, NIIFs Master Fund invests in businesses and assets across core infrastructure sectors and is one of the largest India-focused infrastructure funds.

It has built a portfolio across ports and logistics, renewables, smart meters, roads and digital infrastructure backing assets such as Shapoorji Pallonji Groups SP Jammu-Udhampur Highway Ltd, Hindustan Ports Pvt. Ltd (HPPL), among others, with the most recent bet on GMR Goa International Airport Ltd.
MUMBAI : Edtech startup Eruditus hopes to turn profitable during the current quarter on the back of increasing demand for upskilling and higher education, Ashwin Damera, co-founder and executive director, Eruditus Executive Education, said in an interview.

Damera said the company is working towards Ebitda (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) profitability. The company is actively pursuing acquisition opportunities for its enterprise business, and edtech companies offering advanced courses in fields like law, journalism, and specialized commerce, he added.

According to Damera, the group is expected to close the financial year with a revenue run rate of around $450 million, up 50% from the $300 million clocked in FY22. Going forward, we see our annualized revenue run rate growing to $560-600 million in FY24."

The company is choosing to be fiscally prudent and is ready to sacrifice growth for better margins. We are sacrificing some of our growth in order to contain costs of acquisition (CAC) and margins," he said.

The company is targeting an Ebitda margin of 8-10% in FY24, which will make it one of the first edtech companies to hit profitability at the Ebitda level.

Eruditus follows a July to June financial year.

A large part of the growth will come from existing tie-ups with universities. Even as we expand our partnerships with more universities, we are betting big on our enterprise vertical, which is also growing at a faster clip," Damera said.

We will selectively look at inorganic growth opportunities to bulk up our enterprise business," he added. There are a lot of synergistic businesses available in this space in India, though there is no imminent deal now."

Over the next 12 months, Emeritus, the edtech platform of the group, is looking to tie up with 85 universities and in five years, it expects to partner 150-200 universities.

It will still be just 1% of the total market and hence, the growth opportunity in front of us is huge," Damera said.

Eruditus works with top universities across the US, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, India and China to offer more than 100 executive-level courses to students in over 80 nations. It has tie-ups with more than 30 top-tier universities, including MIT, Harvard, Columbia, Cambridge, INSEAD, Wharton, UC Berkeley, IIT, IIM and NUS.

The company says it offers short courses, degree programmes, professional certificates and senior executive programmes. Founded in 2015, Emeritus, part of Eruditus Group, has offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Shanghai, Singapore, Palo Alto, Mexico City, New York, Boston, London and Dubai.

Eruditus turned a unicorn  secured a valuation above $1 billion  when it raised $650 million in a new financing round led by Accel and SoftBank Vision Fund 2 in 2021. The funding round valued Eruditus at $3.2 billion.

In response to a question about whether the company would consider raising new funds, Damera said the current market conditions were not conducive to raising capital. Its probably not the best time to raise capital because valuations have dropped. We are currently well-capitalized. We will raise if we need capital when we have identified inorganic growth opportunities," he said.

The company that primarily offers courses in technology and engineering segments is looking to expand to newer areas such as law, journalism, nursing among others. We will look for inorganic growth targets in these areas as well," he added.
Afghanistan has long been considered such a big geopolitical prize that the Great Game" of taking control of the country goes back to the imperial rivalry between Britain and Russia about a century before its invasion by the Soviet Union in 1979 and the US in 2001. After Americas 2021 withdrawal and the Talibans recapture of Kabul, it was clear Beijing would eye through Islamabad what Washington and Moscow had lost their ardour for. So recent news of Chinas silk-route redux openly aiming to link Afghan territory via the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, part of Beijings Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), was no surprise. It was always part of the jigsaw. What makes geo-strategic sense for Beijing could possibly be a relief for those two cash-strapped economies of South Asia. While New Delhis defence focus might be on BRI violations of our territorial integrity, we must stay alert to any and all Chinese influence on this side of the Himalayas. This requires sleuths to sniff out credit terms for BRI projects around India so that we can weigh whats at stake, map out various scenarios and grasp what to watch out for as this centurys big play for global power thickens its plot.
Until recently, there were two iron laws in investing. One, popularised by Milton Friedman, a Nobel-prizewinning economist, posited that a companys responsibility above all else was to provide returns to its shareholders. The second, promoted by Jack Bogle, founder of Vanguard, an investment firm, held that asset-management fees must be driven to the lowest level possible.

The growing importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria has weakened Friedmans doctrine of shareholder primacy, perhaps fatally. Global ESG funds manage $7.7trn in assets, having doubled in size in the past seven years. Even the Business Roundtable, a talking shop for American bosses, declared in 2019 that companies must place the interests of a variety of clients, customers and communities on equal footing with shareholders.

But like all revolutions, this one has generated a reaction. The anti-ESG backlash is flourishing. Vivek Ramaswamy, author of Woke, Inc." and co-founder of Strive Asset Management, announced his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination on February 21st. The firm he left to pursue his political ambitions promotes exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and proxy-voting services that push back against what it sees as the politicisation of corporate governance.

Anti-ESG legislation is also rippling through American state legislatures. In February Ron DeSantis, Floridas governor, who is also expected to compete in the Republican primaries, proposed legislation to prohibit the use of ESG criteria in all of the states investment decisions. Given the supervisory role many statehouses hold over public pension funds, many of which have hundreds of billions of dollars in assets, this sort of legislation could have big implications for the asset-management industry.

There are plenty of problems with the ESG movement. Working out if assets are ESG-compliant is complex, and prone to bias, mismeasurement and public-relations peacocking. Proponents of feel-good investing want to have their cake and eat it, insisting that the focus on stakeholders is actually better for shareholders, too.

But in defending Friedmans law, the anti-ESG crowd is struggling with the other part of the investing canonthe importance of low fees. At the moment, taking a position against ESG is much more expensive than going with the crowd. This is particularly true when it comes to anti-ESG laws, which are more preoccupied with bashing ESG-promoting firms than with prioritising shareholder returns and cutting costs for taxpayers.

A study by Daniel Garrett of the University of Pennsylvania and Ivan Ivanov of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago considers one anti-ESG stance. It finds that Texass anti-ESG laws, which had the unfortunate side-effect of thinning out the number of bond underwriters, raised issuers interest costs by $300m-500m in their first eight months. Meanwhile, Indianas anti-ESG bill was watered down after the states fiscal watchdog suggested that it would cut annual returns to the states public pension funds by 1.2 percentage points, because it would prevent the use of many active managers and limit investment in the private-equity industry and thus private markets.

Similarly, the cost of anti-ESG ETFs is considerable, and their benefits questionable. Strives most popular ETF, DRLL, focuses on the American energy industry. But the fund charges fees of 0.4% a year on assets, compared with 0.1% for XLE, the largest regular energy ETF, created by State Street Global Advisors, another investment firm. This amounts to a big drain on a buyers compounded returns. Moreover, the top ten holdings in both funds are the same.

Any success that Strive achieves in changing corporate governance and raising returns will be enjoyed by holders of other energy funds as well. Therefore an anti-woke investor may be best advised to stick with lower-fee funds and wait to see whether the efforts of anti-ESG activists amount to anything. It could be a long wait: it is difficult to see exactly how anti-ESG offerings will expand their audience beyond the most committed fellow travellers.

For a hard-headed investor who still believes in Friedmans doctrine, the anti-ESG movement would hold an obvious appeal were it to become less costly. But at the moment there is only one rational choice. Investors, and taxpayers, are far better placed when they follow the crowd. That means coming to terms with Woke, Inc., rather than paying hefty sums to push back against it.

Read more from Buttonwood, our columnist on financial markets:

Despite the bullish talk, Wall Street has China reservations (Feb 23rd)

Investors expect the economy to avoid recession (Feb 15th)

Surging stocks undermine a hallowed investing rule (Feb 7th)

For more expert analysis of the biggest stories in economics, finance and markets, sign up to Money Talks, our weekly subscriber-only newsletter.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Oil prices rose on May 8 as US recession worries eased on healthy jobs report for April that supported crude to climb 4 per cent before the weekend. Oil edged higher even though the US labour market data could allow the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates higher for a longer period of time.

Brent crude futures was up $1.41, or 1.9 per cent, at $76.71 a barrel earlier in the day. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained $1.50, or 2.1 per cent, to $72.84. Brent had finished last week with a decline of about 5.3 per cent while WTI declined by 7.1 per cent even after the rebound.

Both benchmarks were down for three weeks in a row for the first time since November, which was ''overdone'' according to analysts. The slowdown had prompted investors to flee from risk leading to selloffs. The turmoil in the US banking sector and oil production cuts announced by OPEC+ also added to volatility in oil markets.

Prices recover on strong US jobs data

US employment growth and pay gains accelerated in April that resulted in labor-market resilience and recovery in energy stocks on Wall Street on Friday. The nonfarm payrolls increased 253,000 for the month, beating Wall Street estimates for growth of 180,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The unemployment rate was 3.4% against an estimate for 3.6% and tied for the lowest level since 1969.

US WTI was up 4 per cent after plunging to over 7 per cent last week as a result of market sell-off on fears of economic recession and that fuel supply would decrease in the world's largest oil-consuming nation.

Oils rebound follows energy stocks comeback on Wall Street last Friday after the U.S. reported strong job data, which eased concerns about an imminent economic recession," CMC analyst Tina Teng told news agency Reuters.

Oil seeks stability amid OPEC+ cuts

OPECs latest monthly oil market report is due on May 11, providing an updated reading on the demand and supply outlook. Prices will now attempt to find stability as energy traders watch to see if OPEC+ will need to indicate that they are willing to cut production even more.

A round of voluntary output cuts by members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies, together called OPEC+, begin this month and the group holds its next meeting on June 4.

According to Goldman Sachs analysts, concerns over near-term demand and elevated supplies were overblown". The investment bank kept its forecast for Brent crude at $95 per barrel by December and $100 by April.

Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank told Reuters that oils recent drop looked excessive. An oversold market condition combined with Brent managing to find support ahead of the March low forced recently established short sellers to seek cover, potentially highlighting that the recent sell-off was overdone," he noted.
India and Canada are getting closer to signing an early-stage trade agreement, a move thats part of a larger Canadian strategy to diversify its Pacific trade and supply chains away from China.

Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is in Ottawa on Monday for ministerial talks and the two countries are making steady progress toward a deal, Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng said in an interview with Bloomberg News.

Canada has had intermittent trade negotiations with India going back more than a decade, but last year the two sides decided to narrow the scope and focus on an initial deal that would include a few industries, rather than an economy-wide accord.

Ng said she has a strong relationship with Goyal and that they are advancing toward a signed agreement. It is not going to be years," she said about how much longer it will take. The point of doing an early-stage trade deal is to be practical and spend time on areas of agreement rather than having talks drag out, she said.

Ng didnt lay out the industries that would be included in any such deal, but she said technology  especially for lowering emissions and protecting the environment  would naturally be a focus.

There will be rules around investment, rules around tariff reductions, rules around the kinds of services that we would do with each other, rules around how to facilitate trade," she said.

Providing a more predictable investment regime for Canadians is also a priority, Ng said. Canadian pension funds are increasingly investing in Indian infrastructure and Canadians overall have about C$65 billion ($48.7 billion) in portfolio investments in India, she said.

A trade deal with India is also part of the governments larger Indo-Pacific strategy to diversify its trade away from heavy dependence on China, Ng said. This very much is about building trade ties and resiliency with those who advance and respect the rule of law," she said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing the Group of 20 this year, meaning Canadian ministers will be visiting India throughout the year  with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau likely to attend the leaders summit in New Delhi in September.
New Delhi: Commerce minister Piyush Goyal and Mary Ng, Canadas minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business, and Economic Development, are set to co-chair the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI) in Ottawa on Monday. The MDTI serves as an institutional framework for discussing a broad range of trade and investment-related issues and areas for cooperation between the two countries.

The dialogue is expected to cover topics such as enhancing bilateral trade relations between India and Canada, investment promotion, cooperation in green transition, including critical minerals, and promoting business-to-business (B2B) engagements.

The ministers will also review negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Canada, which began at the previous MDTI meeting in March 2022. Seven rounds of negotiations have been held since then, with the possibility of establishing an interim agreement or Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA).

Goyal is scheduled to visit Toronto during 9-10 May, where he will participate in various trade and investment promotion activities. These include meetings with CEOs of leading Canadian companies, a roundtable of Indian and Canadian CEOs, and interactions with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada. A financial sector roundtable will also be held, with Ficci accompanying Goyal as part of an Indian CEO delegation.

Goyal will also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, North Americas largest food innovation trade show, featuring over 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries. The event is designed to cater to the retail, food service, and food processing industries.

Indian business delegations from the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), and Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) will participate in the event.

On the sidelines of SIAL-2023, a Trade and Investment Promotion Event for the Agricultural and Food Processing sector will be held, involving Indian companies and Canadian importers. The event is expected to attract participation from around 200 companies.

The MDTI and accompanying events are anticipated to strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations between India and Canada, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in various sectors.
New Delhi: Bharat BioTech and Serum Institute of India are in talks with the Mexican government for manufacturing vaccines, according to persons aware of the matter.

This proposed deal will allow the two Indian pharmaceutical companies to expand their presence in Mexico and further afield in the Latin American market.

For Mexico, expanding its domestic capability to manufacture vaccines has become a top national priority since the covid-19 pandemic.

During his visit to India in 2022, Mexican foreign minister Marcelo Ebrard said in an interview that his country could no longer depend solely on developed nations for the supply of crucial vaccines. Ebrard also appreciated Indias role in sending vaccines to Mexico in 2021.

Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech did not respond to queries from Mint.

The talks for cooperating on vaccines and biotechnologies are in line with Mexico reaching out to India on pharmaceuticals in recent years. In 2022, the Mexican government entered into a strategic partnership agreement with another Indian company, Cipla, during Ebrards visit.

That agreement established cooperation between Cipla and Mexican government agency Biological and Reagent Laboratories of Mexico (Birmex).

The MoU will involve trade agreements to ensure a short-term supply of oncological and retroviral drugs to Mexico, and a technology transfer arrangement to ensure that Birmex has the capacity to manufacture these products to supply the country," the Mexican foreign ministry said at the time.

Mexico has also established cooperation with ImmunoACT for the transfer of technology for cancer treatment.

In addition, Reuters reported in 2022 that Mexico was in talks with Biological E. Ltd, another Indian company manufacturing vaccines, to transfer Indian technology for the development of vaccines in Mexico.

Indian firms may be motivated by the prospect of expanding their presence in Mexico as a means of increasing their footprint in the Latin American market.

While some Indian firms like Sun Pharma, Lupin and Dr. Reddys already have a presence in Mexico and the wider region, Latin American nations are making a determined push to attract more Indian pharmaceutical enterprises.

Panamas foreign minister Janaina Tewaney Mencomo said in January: Panama is trying to develop a pharma hub and...I believe the Indian pharma sector is one of the most important allies of Panama in this."
Florida legislators have passed a bill permitting the use of radioactive waste byproduct of fertilizer production to help build demonstration road projects in Florida.

The bill, which awaits a signature from Republican governor Ron DeSantis, permits the use of toxic phosphogypsum in the road construction aggregate materials.

The US Environmental Protection Agency prohibits using the toxic phosphate waste in roadway construction because it poses an unacceptable risk to road construction workers, public health and the environment.

The US EPA currently requires that phosphogypsum be stored in piles called gypstacks" that resembles enormous ponds of hundreds of acres wide.

Critics said putting phosphogypsum in roads would let the fertilizer industry off the hook for safely disposing of nearly 30 millions of tons of dangerous waste it creates each year through the phosphate fertilizer mining industry beside over 1 billion tons of radioactive phosphogypsum already stored in 24 stacks in Florida.

This dangerous plan to pave Floridas roads with toxic phosphate mining waste is an egregious handout to an industry that has a lengthy history of damaging the environment and putting public health at risk," they said.

Environmental groups also warned about phosphogypsum spilling into waterways and elsewhere during storms.

The stacks are prone to spills and sinkholes-a leak in March 2021 at a stack called Piney Point resulted in the release of an estimated 215 million gallons (814 million liters) of polluted water into Tampa Bay and caused massive fish kills.

In 2020, during Trump era, the EPA approved the use of phosphogypsum in government road construction projects, but the agency later reversed its decision following a lawsuit and petition by the new regime under Democratic President Joe Biden.
Exhumation of bodies of victims of cult leader, Paul McKenzie Nthenge, at the Shakhahola massacre scene in Kilifi.

Nairobi  Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader Raila Odinga has visited Pastor Ezekiel Odero of the New Life Prayer Centre, amid probe on religious cult activities following Shakahola massacre.

This comes a day after Odero was released on a Sh1.5 million cash bail following his arrest in connection with the Shakahola killings.

Shanzu Senior Principal Magistrate Joe Omido who threw out an application by State to continue holding the pastor for 30 more days gave him an alternative bond of Sh3 million.

The preacher of New Life Church and Prayer Centre had already spent 7 days in Police Custody at Port Police.

Odero, a wealthy televangelist who boasts a huge following, is being investigated on a raft of charges including murder, aiding suicide, abduction, radicalisation, crimes against humanity, child cruelty, fraud and money laundering.

Prosecutors accuse Odero of links to cult leader Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, who is in custody facing terrorism charges over the deaths of more than 100 people, many of them children, in what has been dubbed the "Shakahola forest massacre."

Mackenzie, the head of the Good News International Church, is alleged to have incited his followers to starve to death in order to "meet Jesus" in a case that has deeply shocked Kenyans.

About 50 Odero supporters gathered outside the courtroom in the Indian Ocean port city of Mombasa, some dressed in all white, some in red, and praying with bibles in hand.
On 6 May, a 74-year-old British man formally assumed a job promised to him when he was borna strange event by itself in a country with record joblessness and a severe cost-of-living crisis. But the coronation of King Charles III, one of the worlds richest men, was funded by the taxpayerestimates ran over $100 millionand commemorated with a national holiday. Moreover, as the king received the sovereigns orb, sceptre and coronation ring, and was anointed with oil sacralized in Jerusalem, his subjects around the UK and abroad were invited to swear allegiance to his majesty, heirs and successors according to law, So help me God."

The absurdity can be total. It appears to ridicule analysis. It takes the onlooker beyond anger and despair to neutrality." These words by V.S. Naipaul, originally used for post-colonial India and paraphrased slightly, apply today to post-imperial Britain, arguably also a deeply wounded civilization" that is ruled by ritual and myth" and seems incapable of lasting reform, or of a correct interpretation of the new world."

Child poverty is rising and life expectancy is slowing down, while corruption scandals engulf the ruling Conservative Party. Britain, once admired, has become a subject of international derision. One sign is the dignitary count for the coronation, which is lower than that of the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. US President Joe Biden, among others, declined to attend.

Tory politicians and much of the British press have been urging citizens to take pride in ancient rituals and institutions. Indeed, the coronation offered another disquieting lesson in how orchestrated deference to Britains past serves to perpetuate its social and economic inequalities, and to postpone necessary questions about the integrity and competence of the countrys elites.

Under them, Britain has suffered successive moral, political and economic disasters from the Tory programme of austerity, which decimated social welfare systems and pressed down wages, to the witless pursuit of Brexit and manifold failings witnessed under Boris Johnson and Liz Truss.

As Naipaul warned, those proud of their ancient, surviving civilization" are in fact, its victims."

There are signs that the reflexive British regard for posh people and hoary institutions may be fading. A YouGov poll this month revealed that 64% of Britons dont care very much or at all about the coronation. According to a survey by the National Centre for Social Research only three out of 10 people in Britain think the monarchy is very important," the lowest proportion on record. Nearly half of the respondents said it should be abolished.

More importantly, only 12% of 18- to 34-year-olds view the monarchy as very important." Young people have watched aghast as Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle were hounded out of the country by a racist press, and as Prince Andrew, King Charless brother, paid off his accuser to settle his sexual assault case in the US.

They know all too well the tricks of the stalemate society" where, as Prince Harry pointed out last week, the establishment media diverts the public with the most mundane and petty things" in order to obscure critical issues."

Support for the British monarch is more rapidly declining in the handful of countries where he is still head of state. Even Australia is set to become a republic, as the countrys new ambassador to the UK revealed last week. Charles himself attended the ceremony last year in which Barbados officially removed the Queen as its head of state.

The new King spoke then about the appalling atrocity of slavery"; he has yet to respond to recent revelations in The Guardian that his own ancestors owned slave plantations in Virginia, and that priceless jewels looted from India by British imperialists ended up in the royal collection.

It is possible that Charles is profoundly embarrassed by his tainted legacy. His passion for environmental issues marks him out in a family that has historically been more engaged by horses and palaces.

He has also said he wants to modernize the monarchy, although his elaborate plans for the coronation suggest the opposite. In any case, incremental movessuch as paying tax, like other Britons, on the inheritance from his mothermay not be enough.

His Majestys greatest service to his kingdom would be to abolish his pompous office altogether. The expensively preposterous coronation could then be justified, in his own mind at least, as the last indulgence of its kinda grand farewell party.

Certainly, Britain needs more than ever to grapple with urgent challenges of the present and future instead of yet again lavishly re-enacting its past. The past has to be seen as dead," as Naipaul wrote about another wounded civilization, or the past will kill."

Pankaj Mishra is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist.
Laredo College is receiving $3 million in federal funding to support low-income and underserved students through its Learning Engaging & Academic Support through Data-Driven Action program.

Also known as LEAD, the program assists the students with their academic and career pathways. It helps with retention and graduation rates by gathering, analyzing and utilizing data.

Rep. Henry Cuellar helped secure the federal funding through the U.S. Department of Educations Developing Hispanic-serving Institutions Program. He announced the funding on Monday, May 8 at Laredo College.

Education will forever dictate the potential of our society, and in todays modern age, our higher-learning institutions must adapt to new challenges, Cuellar said. These funds will provide students at Laredo College with indispensable resources that allow them to thrive in todays complex learning environment. Ultimately, the LEAD program will lead to higher graduation rates and help more graduates land a job. I want to thank the President of Laredo College, Dr. Minita Ramirez, the Laredo College Board of Trustees, and all faculty at the college for their commitment to their students success.

Through the program, more low-income and underserved students will have the opportunity to participate in the Pathways Summer Bridge Program. It will be used to increase the retention and graduation rates while collecting data along the way.

The funding will also be used to create a LEAD Center which will feature an eLearning Hub and on-site licensed professional counselors. Part of the responsibility of the counselors will be assisting students who have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with providing a place for studying and class work, the eLearning Hub will host events to encourage mental wellness and healthy eating among other topics.

This Title V grant for Hispanic Serving Institutions focuses on serving students of our area. Congressman Cuellar has endorsed and supported students of our community throughout his tenure as an elected representative, Ramirez said. This Title V grant is going to serve as the catalyst that helps students through a smooth transition from high school to Laredo College. We are committed to providing the support to all students. The focus of this grant will be in college readiness and preparedness through a Summer Bridge program, counseling and mental health guidance, and professional development for our faculty.
A year ago, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott implemented controversial inspections of trucks coming into the country by Texas Department of Public Safety. He cited a need to stop migrants and drugs coming into the country as the reason behind them, but a week later when they ended no migrants or drugs had been seized from them while the major delays for truckers had cost $4.2 billion in goods and services and the equivalent of 36,000 jobs.

Now with Title 42 set to end this week, the DPS has started similar inspections once again.

A DPS spokesman told The Texas Tribune the inspections will continue for an undetermined amount of time at the Veterans International Bridge connecting Brownsville and Matamoros while other inspections are also occurring at the Free Trade International Bridge connecting Los Indios and Matamoros.

Laredo's Rep. Henry Cuellar believes more could be coming, and after last year's issues, he's concerned at what that could mean.

Gov. Abbott with all due respect is doing something that is anti-business, and it's more of political messaging than actually solving the problem, Cuellar said.

The reason last year's inspections led to no discovery of migrants or narcotics is simply what DPS is allowed to inspect. Only U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have the power to open up tractor-trailers. Thus these checks are simply mechanical in nature.

His purpose of doing that is to stop migrants and stop drugs coming into the U.S. by stopping and inspecting the trucks, Cuellar said. The problem is that DPS does not have the power to open up the trucks containers, as they can only check for breaks, windshield wipers and all mechanical inspections. So when he says that he is going to do 100% inspections, he is actually doing 100% mechanical inspections.

Cuellar said that he would support inspections that helped the stated problems but instead these do not do that, instead being both highly disruptive to traffic and costly to the economy while not achieving their goal. The traffic also limited many truck drivers' trips, leading to them bringing in less income.

Cuellar said he has gotten numerous calls and messages from brokers, shippers and owners of transportation companies complaining about the inspections, but he is redirecting all their complaints to the state government as he said the federal government has nothing to do with the decision.

He should think about those drivers that lose money, Cuellar said. Who is going to put food in the mouth of that family for that truck driver? Who is going to do that? Is Gov. Abbott going to do that? What about the customs brokers, the trucking companies and the logistics and the freight workers and the other companies that depend on this movement of trucks?

It is all political show, and what it is doing is that it is hurting business, Cuellar said. He must think that we dont really know what he does, but it is all a political show. If you ask the governors office or DPS how many drugs or how many people were stopped by doing 100% truck inspections, the answer is zero.

Cuellar said the governor might not be done with inspections in Brownsville. He heard that this may be expanding to Eagle Pass as well.

Meanwhile, Laredo's representative praised the recent decision of the federal government to try and work with Panama and Colombia in efforts to stop as many people trying to come to the country that are coming from South America. He also stated that he was very glad to see the United States working with Guatemala and Colombia in the establishment of processing centers in those countries so people do not have to come and wait for their immigration court dates.

Asylum officers can quickly decide on who stays and who goes, Cuellar said. There is also a new rule coming forward that says that if you entered in between port of entry you will be returned, and that is something I have always been saying as you have to come through the right way. The other part of the rule also says that if they are coming in through a country where they could ask for asylum then when they get to the U.S. there is rebuttal presumption. I feel that finally they are doing some things, although a little late, but I do expect some rough times like we are already seeing right now because there is already a lot of people coming in.
Twitter users criticized the social media platform and owner Elon Musk after graphic images were widely circulated on the site showing details from Saturday's mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas that left nine people dead.

Images and videos showed victims' bodies covered in blood, including a young child. When news outlets reach out to Twitter for comment, the company responded with an automated email of a poop emoji.

This family does not deserve to see the dead relatives spread across Twitter for everybody to see, veteran journalist Pat Holloway told the New York Times.

The spreading of the images without Twitter taking them down or marking them as sensitive material highlights the changes Musk made when he bought Twitter in October and made cuts to the moderation team.

Account holders who tried reporting an account that had posted graphic images said they were met with a message that claimed the images didn't violate Twitter's "sensitive media policy." Others said they haven't been able to avoid other graphic images since changes were made to Twitter's content moderation team.

"There is nothing virtuous or ethical about showing easily identifiable dead children and adults, whose families might not yet know they are dead," wrote Emily Bell, a professor and director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism at Columbia University, on Twitter. "It's deeply unethical  it strips victims and their families of privacy and dignity in death."

Other companies like Facebook and YouTube still have teams that work to reduce the spread of violent images on their platforms.
On a Sunday night stroll, a couple walking their dog discovered a decomposing body in a suitcase in the 22800 block of Imperial Valley in north Harris County on May 7 around 8:30 p.m. According to the Harris County Sheriff's office, the couple who found the body flagged down a nearby deputy.

Harris County Sheriff's officials say they believe the body was intentionally dumped along the road and likely had been there for a while. The body was discovered in a grassy patch of land that sits a block away from a commercial area.
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ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group. There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in the group  which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

At the end of the Pakistan-hosted mini-summit of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad on Monday issued a joint statement. It said the three sides stressed the need to prevent any individual, group or party to use their territories to harm and threaten regional security and interests or conduct terrorist actions and activities. These include the Pakistani Taliban and the ethnic Uighur militant group, called the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

It said all three sides underscored the need to refrain from intervening in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and to promote Afghan peace, stability and reconstruction. The diplomats from the three nations agreed to further deepen and expand their cooperation in the security, development and political domains based on the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed consultation and mutual benefit."

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.
Dwindling attendance at a historic Alabama church has prompted the difficult decision to close its doors for good, with the final worship service held this Sunday after 182 years
Police in Georgia say a man who killed his workplace manager, mother and grandmother before taking his own life had been involved in a gunfight less than 48 hours earlier
Naivasha  Germany has committed to offer both financial and technical support to Kenya to enable the country meet its target of achieving 100 percent transition to renewable energy by the year 2030.

Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz lauded Kenya for its strong leadership and investments in geothermal energy, noting that will go a long way in helping the country in its climate change adaptation plans.

Chancellor Scholz who was speaking during his visit to geothermal wells in Olkaria, Naivasha on Saturday said Germany will continue to offer financial support to enable the government upgrade the old turbines in Olkaria some of which are several decades old in order to maximize on their potential.

The Germany Chancellor further said his government will support Kenya in establishing a green hydrogen economy which can be used in production of fertilizer crucial to the country's food security strategy.

Geothermal power generation is a good source of hydrogen which is a crucial component in fertilizer production.

It's worth noting the visit by the Germany Chancellor follows President William Ruto's visit to Germany last month where the two countries resolved to step up cooperation on green hydrogen and improve the business environment to attract German investors to Kenya.

The two leaders voiced their concern about the effects of climate change on livelihoods, communities, and nations and emphasized the urgent need for intensive efforts to reverse the effects of climate change.

Speaking during the visit, Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mr. Davis Chirchir said Kenya was now producing 92 per cent green renewable energy out of the total energy produced in the country with the country set to retire the thermal (fossil) energy by 2030 as the country turns to 100 per cent by 2030.

The CS lauded the Germany support for the energy sector in the country where she is the largest investor in the green renewable energy.

Chirchir revealed that the Germany Government had funded the newest geothermal project at Silali in Baringo County at a cost of 80illion euros (about Ksh.12.2Billion) where five wells have been developed producing 45MW of power.

Germany Government had earlier advanced Kenya a 45 Million Euros (Sh.6.5 Billion) loan facility to Kenyafor expansion of the Olkaria Geo-thermal power station in Naivasha.

"Geothermal energy is non-exhaustible unlike other forms of renewable energy like hydro, wind and solar which are affected by climate change," Chirchir said.

He observed that due to this climate change, Kenya has just emerged from a severe drought which saw power production form the hydro sources which provide the country with 800 Megawatts (MW) of power (30 percent of the country's power production capacity) to a mere 10 per cent but the Geothermal sources came in handy and helped stabilize power supply to the national grid, and an additional 200MW purchase from Ethiopia through Suswa line which runs on Germany technology.

Chirchir also noted that Kenya currently produces a total of 1,100mw of geothermal power which include 160mw from a concessioner and there is a further 450mw waiting to be harnessed to the national grid.

"We shall walk the journey together to harness our potential of nine Gigawatts (GW) which translates to 9,000MW of geo-thermal power which has already been mapped out since our country sits on the ring of fire and from this we can produce green ammonium, green hydrogen and fertilizers among others," the CS said.

Research shows that hydrogen gas has also been used to fuel cars, airships and spaceships since the beginning of the 19th century and is a source of clean renewable energy.

Chirchir asked the Germany Government to consider increasing the period of power concessions from 25 years to between 30 to 40 years, saying this will help bring the cost of power down.

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He noted that the government has connected nine million Kenyans to the electricity national grid as at the end of 2022 compared to the two million in the year 2002, marking a huge step in the last mile connectivity project.

Geothermal resources in Kenya are located within the Rift Valley with an estimated potential of between 7,000 MW to 9,000 MW spread over 14 prospective sites.

According to Data from the ministry of energy, Kenya's current effective installed (grid connected) electricity capacity is about MW. Electricity supply is predominantly sourced from hydro and fossil fuel (thermal) sources. This generation energy mix comprises hydro at 838 MW, geothermal at 1,100MW, two per cent from biogas cogeneration, and wind at 437 MW and solar at 173 MW. - Kna
Community, Charity & Cause

By Catherine Eve Published: May 07 2023

Leave food donations by your mailbox on May 13 for the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive and help support Island Harvest.

Helping Long Islanders in need is as easy as going to your mailbox. The 31st Annual Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive will take place on Saturday, May 13. To participate, simply put a non-perishable food donation in a bag by your mailbox before your regularly scheduled mail delivery. Your USPS mail carrier will do the rest. All food collected in Nassau and Suffolk counties will benefit Island Harvest Food Bank, a leading hunger-relief organization with a mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island. The donations will provide much needed supplemental food support to more than 300,000 Long Islanders who face hunger and food insecurity, including nearly one-third who are children.

Some of the most needed items include canned goods, cereal, pasta, rice, boxed juices, nuts, seeds, peanut butter, and shelf-stable milk. (No glass containers) Personal care items such as toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, and disposable diapers will also be accepted. All goods donated on Long Island will help replenish Island Harvests network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and other emergency feeding programs in communities throughout Long Island.

The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is the country's largest one-day food drive, providing residents with an easy way to donate food to those in need. First held in 1993, the food drive helps feed millions of Americans across the country. In 2019, the last year that Island Harvest participated, the drive resulted in the distribution of more than 521,000 pounds of food supplementing over 434,000 meals on Long Island.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: May 08 2023

Elizabeth Reilly wrote herself checks and used victims credit card information to buy airline tickets, beauty products.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a New Hyde Park woman pleaded guilty today for stealing approximately $750,000 from a 91-year-old woman who had entrusted her finances to her attorney, the defendants employer.

Elizabeth Reilly, 50, pleaded guilty before Judge Robert Bogle to Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a C felony). The defendant is due back in court on July 7, 2023. She is expected to be sentenced to three to six years in prison.

At an advanced age, the victim knew it made fiscal sense to trust her finances to her attorney. She couldnt have predicted that the defendant, who was given access to her bank statements, check books, and credit cards, would look at her lifes savings as a convenient payday, said DA Donnelly. The defendant drained nearly three-quarters of a million dollars from the woman, paying for airline tickets, a gym membership, and other personal purchases. We will continue to fight for Nassau Countys seniors who, sadly, are victimized often by financial fraud schemes.

DA Donnelly said that the defendants employer, a Floral Park attorney, had a verbal agreement with the victim that he would handle her finances as she began executing a Power of Attorney, Living Will and other documents with him. As part of this agreement, the law offices address became the mailing address on record for the victims financial institutions and Reilly was given access to bank statements, check books, credit cards and financial statements.

According to the investigation, between 2016 and 2020, more than 250 checks were written from the victims bank accounts and made out to the defendant or to cash and deposited into the defendants accounts or an account held by the defendants husband. The deposited checks totaled more than $675,000.

Additionally, Reilly used the victim's credit cards to make unauthorized purchases for Reilly's own benefit. Charges included personal purchases, beauty products, a gym membership, and airline tickets. The defendant also made purchases using her own PayPal account, and then paid her account with the victim's credit card. Ultimately, the defendant paid the victim's credit card balances online, using the victims bank accounts.

The theft was discovered in October 2020, when Reillys employer reviewed the victims credit card statements and saw questionable activity.

The case was referred to NCDAs Financial Crimes Bureau in February 2021.
Nairobi  Pastor Ezekiel Odero conducted a church service on Sunday at his New Life Prayer Centre and Church, marking his first service since being arrested and subsequently released from police custody.

On Friday, a Shanzu court released Odero on a Sh1.5 million cash bail, after he had spent seven days in police custody.

"The court is certain that the state did not act in good faith when seeking to continue detaining the respondent, as they failed to provide adequate information on the status of the investigation, as ordered." Magistrate Joe Omido ruled.

Police accuse the pastor of having links to cult leader Paul Nthenge Mackenzie, who is in custody facing terrorism charges in connection with the "Shakahola forest massacre."

The massacre resulted in the deaths of more than 100 individuals, including numerous children.

Mackenzie, the head of the Good News International Church, is alleged to have incited his followers to starve to death in order to "meet Jesus" in a case that has deeply shocked Kenyans.

The pastor is equally facing investigations on a raft of charges including murder, aiding suicide, abduction, radicalization, crimes against humanity, child cruelty, fraud, and money laundering.

Despite the order that his church should remain shut, Odero who appeared undaunted by his arrest and the accusations looming over him opened its doors to his numerous followers, who attended his summons in large numbers.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki had ordered that his church should remain shut pending the conclusion of the investigations over the "mass killing of his followers".

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The wealthy pastor through his lawyers Danstan Omari and Cliff Ombeta had on May 3 sought conservatory orders barring the state from closing their client's church and its bank accounts.

"The respondents have connived an evil and malicious scheme against my client which is aimed at frustrating him and his ministry," Omari said.

Despite returning to the pulpit to evangelize, Odero must report to the police once a week and is prohibited from speaking about the case.

Prosecutors have said in court documents that they have credible information linking the corpses exhumed at Shakahola to the deaths of several of Odero's "innocent and vulnerable followers".

Police are also investigating information that the bodies were kept in a privately-run morgue before being transported and buried in the forest, according to the documents.

Prosecutors have also claimed that Odero and Mackenzie share a "history of business investments" including a television station used to pass "radicalized messages" to followers.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: May 08 2023

My Plum Island National Monument Act is a vital step towards safeguarding this important piece of Suffolk County, said LaLota.

Plum Island Light is located on the western end of Plum Island in Long Island Sound in the US state of New York. Built in 1869, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

Rep. Nick LaLota (NY-01) recently sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling on the President to either voice support for the Plum Island National Monument Act, which aims to permanently protect the island, or designate the island as a national monument through Presidential powers authorized in the Antiquities Act of 1906.

Plum Island is an important and unique ecosystem that serves as a critical habitat for rare species and provides essential resources to nearby communities. My Plum Island National Monument Act is a vital step towards safeguarding this important piece of Suffolk County, said LaLota. It is our responsibility to ensure that the unique ecosystem and cultural heritage of Plum Island is protected and preserved for future generations. As a supporter of conversation and protecting Suffolk County, I am urging President Biden to support my legislation and protect Plum Island.

To read the full text of the letter, click HERE.

Background:

In March, LaLota introduced the Plum Island National Monument Act, which would establish Plum Island, N.Y. as a national monument for the purpose of ecological conservation, historical preservation, and the discovery and celebration of our shared cultural heritage.

Plum Island, New York is located in Southold Township about three miles from Orient, New York. In 1954, the Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC) was established on the island and managed by the United States Department of Agriculture.

In 2002, the Department of Homeland Security was tasked with continuing the operation. The laboratory conducted research on foreign animal diseases and worked to prevent the introduction and spread of such diseases. After significant community concerns, in 2005, the PIADC was ordered to close and relocate to Manhattan, Kansas. The Department of Agriculture and the Department of Homeland Security are still in the process of deconstructing the PIADC.

The Department of Homeland Security originally was required by law to sell Plum Island to the highest bidder, however, former Congressman Lee Zeldin was successful in passing legislation to repeal that requirement. Congressman LaLotas legislation would ensure that Plum Islands natural habitat is protected and preserved for generations to come.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: May 08 2023

Defendant John Vano, 50, is charged with Assault 2nd degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th degree.

The Seventh Squad reports on the arrest of a Franklin Square man for an Assault that occurred on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 8:15 PM in Merrick.

According to Detectives, defendant John Vano, 50, of 187 Barrymore Boulevard, while working as an employee of La Piazza, located at 2191 Merrick Road, got into a verbal argument with another employee, a 42-year-old male. Defendant John Vano proceeded to strike the victim in the head with a large pizza peel, causing a laceration before fleeing the scene prior to Police arrival. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

On Sunday, May 7, 2023 Defendant John Vano turned himself in to Nassau County Police at the 7th Precinct and was placed under arrest without incident.
Wantagh Woman Loses Over $185,000 in Elder Scam; Victim Led to Believe Grandson Had Been Arrested, Cops Say

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: May 08 2023

The Nassau County Police Department urges the community to be on alert and to remind vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors about potential scams or frauds.

The Seventh Squad reports the details of a Grand Larceny that occurred between April 26, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. through May 8, 2023 at 10:06 a.m. in Wantagh.

According to Detectives, a 78-year-old female received a phone call from a subject claiming to be her grandson and needed money for bail. The subject instructed the victim, on multiple occasions to withdraw money from her bank account and send it to various locations. The victim complied each time, transferring approximately $185,325.00 US Currency in total from her account. The victim was informed she was being scammed and contacted Police.

The investigation is ongoing.

The Nassau County Police Department urges the community to be on alert and to remind vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors about potential scams or frauds.
Kisumu  Kenya Pipeline Corporation (KPC) has rolled out operations at the Sh2 billion Kisumu oil jetty.

Completed in 2018, the facility which has been lying idle is set to ease transportation of petroleum products from the Kisumu KPC depot to Uganda by ship through Lake Victoria.

This follows the successful completion of docking and storage facilities at Bukasa in the neighbouring Uganda.

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davis Chirchir said the facility will boost fuel trade by ensuring seamless evacuation of the products from the port of Mombasa to Uganda for onward transmission to South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

"This is a great achievement for our economies in terms of building inter country trade within our region," he said.

The two vessels ferrying the products from Kisumu, he said have capacity of 4.5 million litres each adding that this will go a long way in addressing the numerous challenges encountered transporting the commodity by road.

"The 4.5 million litres carried by one vessel is equivalent to 135 tracks. This is going to save time taken to transport the commodity," he said.

Other challenges among them accidents and cases of fuel adulteration associated with transportation of the commodity by road shall also be addressed.

The CS who led members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on energy on a tour of the facility said so far the facility has done five trips with 20 million litres shipped to Uganda since the jetty started operations early this year.

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Currently, he said KPC was doing one trip per week adding that three more vessels were being sourced to increase the number of trips.

The Mahathi Fuel Transport and Storage facility in Bugiri, Uganda where the product is offloaded, he said has a capacity of 70 million litres adding that there was urgent need to increase the number of trips to fill the tank.

From the Mahathi facility, the fuel is loaded onto tracks for onward transmission of the products to South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi and the DRC.

To make the facilities efficient, the speed of loading and offloading, he said has been improved for quick movement of the products.

Kenya, he disclosed was seeking partnership with Uganda to build a pipeline from the Mahathi facility to push the products further inland.

"We are obligated to serve the landlocked countries and it is our obligation to provide state of the art services," said the CS. - Kna
Greg Sukiennik has worked at all three Vermont News & Media newspapers and was their managing editor from 2017-19. He previously worked for ESPN.com, for the AP in Boston, and at The Berkshire Eagle in Pittsfield, Mass.
Chuck Thompson, 85, was honored for both his 50th year of service to the Manchester Fire Department, as well as the department's Firefighter of the Year, at the annual banquet Saturday evening. Pictured from left to right: Bill Beideman, 2nd assistant chief; Chuck Thompson, Firefighter of the Year; Jamie Greene, 1st assistant chief; Chris Towslee, chief.
The Development Bank of the Philippines expressed concern over the pronouncement of the Department of Finance (concerning the timeline of the proposed merger with the Landbank of the Philippines.

We are deeply concerned on the palpable efforts to railroad the process and to create public confusion by insinuations that the unification would be completed by November, notwithstanding DBPs pending appeal with the Office of the President on the results of the legal study conducted by the Governance Commission for GOCCs, the state-run lender said in a statement.

DBP said GCGs legal study only delved on the proper mode of merger and did not discuss the propriety of merger.

In fact, based on GCGs statements, no recommendation in favor of merger had been given. DBP maintains that the legal authority of the GCG is at best recommendatory and in no way binding on any government agency, it said.

DBP said the latest DOF statement is an utter disregard of the growing clamor from policy-makers and key stakeholders on the need to undertake transparent discussion and meticulous analysis of all issues considering the planned mergers impact especially on the livelihood and tenure of DBPs employees.

We staunchly aver that unification of the two financial institutions requires Congressional action. DBP shall zealously exhaust all available means to ensure that all issues and concerns are properly threshed out and effectively addressed in the proper and legal forum, it said.

DBP said while the Supreme Court affirmed the constitutionality of Republic Act No. 10149 or the GOCC Governance Act of 2011, the high courts ruling did not pass upon the authority to approve or decide mergers.

It only affirmed GCGs authority as an investigative body on behalf of Congress, it said.

DBP said while SCs decision merely reproduced Sec.5(a) of RA 10149 which is the provision on merger and reorganization of GOCCs, it did so only in the course of debunking the petitions main ground, which points to undue delegation of legislative power that GCG accomplished by simply applying settled jurisprudence on the subject.

DBP expressed confidence that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would listen to the clamor of the people and follow the proper and legally-mandated process to protect and advance the welfare of the banking industry and the country in general.

The board and management of the DBP, together with our personnel remain committed to serving the banking needs of our clients and to providing the financing requirements of strategic and critical economic sectors, particularly infrastructure and logistics, micro, small and medium enterprises, social services and the environment, DBP said.

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HOTEL operators and retailers on Monday said they support the continued use of face masks, especially indoors as a way to deflect the rising cases of COVID-19 infections and to keep the public safe.

In a briefing for the upcoming Philippines Furniture Furnishings Market (PFFM) trade fair in July, members of the The Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), the Philippine Hotel Owners Association (PHOA), and the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) agreed that people should continue to wear masks even though the World Health Organization has declared the end of the global health emergency over COVID-19.

The mask is a very important part of our future. [The] Japan[ese] continue to wear face masks as a sign of courtesy, and it also helps to keep COVID in check, said HRAP president Eugene Yap.

He added that masks are a vital safeguard tool to ensure safety, especially in the food service sector.

Although masks are no longer mandatory, food establishments should maintain their use, he said.

PHOA executive director Benito Bengzon, Jr. said they adhere to government guidelines and abide by minimum public health standards to keep their guests and visitors safe.

Retailers, too, said they are one with the government on implementing health protocols.

PRA president Paul Santos said they follow what the government advises for the safety of mall goers.

If they say it is okay to take it off the masks, we follow the protocol. And if they advise to put on masks again, we will also

follow, he said.

An infectious diseases expert, meanwhile, said that while COVID-19 is no longer considered a global health emergency, the pandemic is far

from over.

Dr. Edsel Salvana, a member of the Department of Healths technical advisory group, said in a televised briefing that the WHO declaration

simply means that the COVID-19 situation has become manageable.

The Philippines on Sunday recorded 1,920 fresh COVID-19 cases, bringing the total since the pandemic started to 4,102,788.

The nationwide positivity rate or the percentage of tests turning out positive for COVID-19 was 19.9 percent, beyond the 5 percent WHO

threshold.

Some 66,453 people have died from COVID-19 in the country.

The WHO placed the global death toll at 20 million.

In the first week of May, the Philippines recorded 9,465 COVID-19 cases, the Department of Healths latest case bulletin said.

From May 1 to 7, an average of 1,352 daily infections were recorded in the country, which is 112 percent higher than the previous week.

Of the new infections during the week, some 50 cases were considered severe or critical, the DOH said Monday.

As of Sunday, some 410 cases or 8.2 percent of total COVID-19 admissions were in severe and critical condition, the DOH added.

At least 346 or 16.5 percent of intensive care unit beds for COVID patients were occupied. The non-ICU bed utilization rate was at 21.2

percent.

During the last week, the DOH also verified nine more COVID-related deaths.

The DOHs COVID-19 Tracker shows the Philippines had 11,408 active COVID-19 cases as of May 7.

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Narok  Narok County Criminal Investigation department has warned residents against giving money in order to receive services from government offices.

The County Criminal Investigating Officer (CCIO) Ethaiba Mwenda advised the public that if they had to give any money to get services from a government official, they should be given an official receipt.

He lamented the increasing cases of bribery among the civil servants who demand money so as to serve the members of the public.

"It is your right to be served in any government office as you wish. The services that need money should be accompanied by an official receipt. Anyone who gives money for a bribe to get government services commits a crime," he reiterated.

The Officer spoke at Dikirr area in Trans Mara East Sub County during a public baraza organised by the County Commissioner Isaac Masinde and attended by various heads of department in the county.

The CCIO asked residents to report to his office when a government official fails to serve them as required, reiterating that corrupt civil servants will be arrested and prosecuted in court of law.

"I don't mind the position you hold in society. As long as there is evidence of a civil servant soliciting for money to offer services to wananchi, I will ensure they are arrested and prosecuted

The warning comes at a time when a Narok County Government Public Service Board Commissioner Paul Rotich is facing criminal charges for allegedly receiving a bribe in order to offer employment to an innocent youth.

Rotich who hails from Trans Mara East Sub County was arraigned before Narok Resident Magistrate Daniel Ngayo where he was released on a bond of Sh100, 000. - Kna
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday rallied fellow lawmakers at the House of Representatives to exert a final concerted push in the remaining four weeks of their session to pass the pending pro-people priority measures of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

Addressing the plenary during the resumption of the session of the House, Romualdez welcomed back House members, expressing hope they had ample rest during the break, as he outlined the task they have to accomplish before the sine die adjournment of the First Regular Session of the 19th Congress on June 2.

PUSHING BILLS. Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez presides over Mondays opening of the plenary session at the House of Representatives as he rallies support from his colleagues for the passage of the remaining priority measures of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. before the sine die adjournment next month. Ver Noveno

As we face the remainder of the First Regular Session, we have merely four weeks to complete our legislative agenda that has been prescribed by no less than our President in his first SONA plus those that have been identified as priority measures in the LEDAC (Legislative Executive Advisory Council), Romualdez said.

Later this afternoon (Monday) I will engage with our party leaders to see how we can make sure that the remainder of these four weeks before we adjourn sine die is used most efficiently and maximized so that we can achieve our goals in making sure that the common legislative agenda, not just of both Houses, but that of the Executive are achieved, he added.

On Sunday, Romualdez bared that President Marcos approved 11 additional bills, including the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) as part of LEDAC, bringing to 42 from the original 31 the total number of priority administration measures.

The 11 bills include 1. Amending the AFP Fixed Term Bill, which was transmitted to the President; 2. Ease of Paying Taxes, 3. Maharlika Investment Fund, 4. Local Government Unit Income Classification, and 5. Amendment to Universal Health Care Act, which were already sent to the Senate; 6. Bureau of Immigration Modernization and 7. Infrastructure Development Plan/Build Build BuildProgram, which is now for committee report preparation; 8. Philippine Salt Industry Development Act; 9. Philippine Ecosystem and Natural Capital Accounting System (PENCAS), 10. National Employment Action Plan, and 11. Amendment to the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act, which is under committee/technical working group (TWG) meeting.

I implore all of you to continue the hard work that has now become the hallmark of the 19th Congress, a most hard-working and diligent Congress we have been. And I believe that we can still do much, much more in the furtherance of the interest of the Filipino people. Maraming maraming salamat sa trabaho, sa paglingkod ninyo sa bayan. Mabuhay po ang Kongreso. Mabuhay po kayong lahat, Romualdez said.

Before this, the Speaker reported to the House plenary the results of the five-day official visit of President Marcos to the United States, which he characterized as the most productive and the most successful one and has brought Philippine-US relations to its greatest heights in recent years.

Im proud to say that we, in conjunction with the Executive, had done our work with our counterparts in Capitol Hill in furthering and in enhancing and in deepening the relationships between the two countries, the Philippines and the United Stateslong historical alliesparticularly during this period of uncertainty, post-COVID and the tensions that affect our region, he added.

The Speaker had accompanied Pres. Marcos in his various engagements, including those with US President Joe Biden, US Vice President Kamala

Harris, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and ranking members of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Meanwhile, the House approved on third and final reading bills such as:

the establishment of specialized care centers in Department of

Health hospitals;

Health hospitals; giving P1 million cash gift to pinoy centenarians; and

providing mandatory insurance, other benefits to power line workers

With an overwhelming 256 votes, the lower chamber passed House Bill (HB) 7751, or the proposed Department of Health Specialty Centers Act,

with Romualdez as one of the principal authors. The bill aims to expand healthcare services by establishing specialized care centers in

hospitals under the supervision and control of the Department of Health (DoH).

Romualdez said the establishment of these facilities would make specialized health care accessible to our people in the provinces,

especially the poor. We have specialty hospitals built during the time of the father of President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.,

President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., but all of these are in Quezon City.

So our people in the regions and in Visayas and Mindanao who need the services of these health facilities will have to travel all the way to

Quezon City to avail of their services, he said.

The House leader was referring to the Philippine Heart Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Lung Center of the Philippines, and Philippine Childrens Medical Center, located not far from each other on East Avenue and Quezon Avenue.

Additionally, there is the Philippine Orthopedic Hospital in Banawe, also in Quezon City.

Romualdez noted that many Filipinos are suffering from heart, kidney, and lung ailments, which are among the top health problems in the

country today. So we need more specialty centers, not necessarily rising to the level of a hospital, like those in Quezon City to treat

and care for our people requiring specialized health care in the provinces, he said.

He said this is the reason why President Marcos recently asked the Philippine Heart Center to expand to the Clark Freeport in Angeles

City, he said.

The House also approved on final reading a bill increasing the cash gift for Filipino centenarians who reach 101 years old from P100,000

to P1 million in a bid to honor and support them.

With an overwhelming 257 votes, the chamber approved HB 7535, which seeks to grant P1 million to Filipinos who reach 101 years old or

centenarians, whether living here or abroad, and P25,000 to Filipinos who reach the age of 80 and 85 (octogenarians), and 90 and 95

(nonagenarians). All of them will also receive a letter of felicitation from the President of the Philippines.

With this legislation, the House of Representatives would like to honor our countrymen for their years of service to the country and for

their discipline in ensuring that they live a long, healthy and fruitful life, Romualdez said.

HB 7535 mandates the National Commission of Senior Citizens to implement the measure once passed into law.

It also seeks to amend Republic Act 10868 or the Centenarians Act of 2016 which entitles all Filipinos who reach 100 years old and above

with a cash gift worth P100,000.

Two in every 100,000 Filipinos are centenarians as of 2020, and majority of them are women, according to a report by Business Mirror

citing data from a UK-based care home marketplace.

Similarly, the Romualdez leadership passed HB 7561 or the Line Workers Insurance and Benefits Act which seeks to provide mandatory

insurance coverage and other employment benefits to all electrical line workers in the country who face an enormous amount of risk in

their line of work. The House approved the bill by an overwhelming 259 votes.

The bill mandates employers  be it in the private or public sector  to provide line workers with additional benefits such as retirement

pay. The power industry is what energizes our economy, lights up our homes and allows us to live in comfort. And behind the energy sector

are the line workers who risk their lives and limbs just to preserve and maintain our way of life, said Romualdez.

It is only right to afford them the benefits and protection due to them and their families for the perils they face in their line of

work. This measure is in recognition of their immense contribution to our society and to nation-building, he added.

Under HB 7561, line workers shall refer to persons including crew, drivers, and helpers, who are directly responsible for the

construction, installation, maintenance, reconstruction, and repair of overhead transmission and distribution electrical systems, including

underground cables, electrical substations, and other related electrical equipment and facilities.

They also include line workers employed in private distribution utilities (PDUs), electric cooperatives (ECs), and transmission or

grid operators, who shall be entitled to life, accident or disability insurance benefits.

In the case of electric cooperatives, the insurance coverage requirement shall be calibrated by the following classification:

P200,000 for small cooperatives, P400,000 for medium-sized, P600,000 for large, P800,000 for extra large and P1 million for mega large.

For the transmission or grid operator, the minimum insurance coverage shall be P2 million. For Private Distribution Utilities, the minimum

insurance coverage shall be P1.5 million, the measure read.

The coverage shall be effective upon the commencement of their employment until their separation from the company, either by

resignation, termination, or retirement. The insurance premium payments shall be shouldered entirely by the employer, HB 7561 said.

The bill also mandates additional benefits for line workers, including retirement benefits, disability benefits, mortuary assistance and

reimbursement of medical expenses in case of death, accident, sickness, or disability injury sustained by the line worker in the

line of duty.

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Lima, Peru  At least 27 workers have died in a fire at a gold mine in a remote area of southern Peru, authorities said on Sunday.

A short circuit caused the fire, which broke out Saturday in a tunnel inside the La Esperanza 1 mine in the Arequipa region, police and the public prosecutors office said.

Public prosecutor Giovanni Matos told channel N television that there were 27 dead inside the mine.

Local media said the blaze started after an explosion at the mine in the remote Condesuyos province, a 10-hour drive from the city of Arequipa, the regional capital.

The explosion ignited the wooden supports inside the mine.

The victims were 100 meters below ground, local media said.

News of the fire was only published Sunday once police had gathered details of those who died.

Rescue teams were trying to secure the mine before removing the victims bodies.

We have to make the place where the dead are safe so we can enter it and recover the bodies, said Matos.

There have been no reports of survivors, either injured or still trapped inside the mine.

This is one of the worst mining accidents in recent years in Peru, the largest gold producer in Latin America.

A man who did not identify himself named his 51-year-old brother Federico Mamani as one of the victims.

Family members headed to the nearest police station for information on their relatives.

The mine, operated by Minera Yanaquihua, is a legal enterprise.

The company has been operating mines in Peru for 23 years.

Mining is one of the engines of the Peruvian economy, accounting for more than eight percent of GDP.

Despite the large number of illegal mines in Peru, accidents such as this are relatively rare.

But in 2020, four miners died after becoming trapped when a mine in Arequipa collapsed.

Peru is the worlds second largest producer of silver, copper and zinc, according to official sources.

It is also Latin Americas top producer of zinc, tin, lead and molybdenum.

cm-vel/llu/bc/mlm

 Agence France-Presse

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With all the dangers that journalists in the Philippines are faced with, we journalists should be highly paid

With all that happened during the five-day official visit of President Marcos Jr. to Washington and his bilateral face-to-face meeting at the White House with US President Biden, and the statement of the latter that there is no better partner of the US than the Philippines, I would consider that Marcos Jr. had a resounding visit.

On the security and defense aspect of the Marcos visit, the US once again reiterated its ironclad commitment to defend the Philippines in case of invasion.

Insofar as China is concerned, Biden supported the Hague Arbitral Court ruling.

The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the additional EDCA sites is proof of that commitment, Santa Banana.

The US also committed more planes and more military weapons to the Philippines.

My gulay, the fact that the US Vice President Kamala Harris and the Pentagon promised more military aid to the Philippines is proof of all these.

On the economic aspect of BBMs five-day visit, once again American trade and investors also committed additional investment amounting to P1.3 B in investment pledges, like the joint venture of Filipino tycoon Ricky Razon with a nuclear power plant builder to put up smaller nuclear power plants in the country.

This, aside from Washingtons assistance to agriculture and other commitments, Santa Banana!

The problem, however, is the assertiveness of China in the West Philippine Sea.

For instance, will China ever stop bullying the country in the West Philippine Sea? Will China ever stop harassing Filipino fishermen also in the West Philippine Sea?

Chinas plans to invade Taiwan with its claim that Taiwan is a province of China puts at risk the 40,000 Filipino OFWs in Taiwan.

My gulay, will China ever believe the additional EDCA sites, especially those nearest to Taiwan, are all for defense and shouldnt be looked at as for offense?

There are also plans for the US ships to join Philippine Coast Guard vessels in joint patrols in the South China Sea?

And speaking of assertiveness in disputed waters, and despite all the hundreds of protests we have filed against China, does China care?

It would appear it doesnt and will not.

That to me is the bigger problem.

And all we can rely on is the assurance of the ironclad commitment of Washington of its promise to protect the Philippines, Santa Banana!

***

Cleansing the PNP

At long last, we are now seeing the cleansing of the Philippine National Police.

Four ranking police officials have finally been recommended to be removed from the PNP due to alleged involvement in illegal drug activities.

The five-man advisory panel headed by retired Police Chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. recommended the acceptance of the courtesy resignation of the third-level officials, including two one-star generals and two colonels.

The four were among the 953 third-level officers evaluated by the panel after their courtesy resignations.

On the other hand, the panel cleared 917, while it submitted and endorsed the suspension to President Marcos Jr. of 32 officials.

Since Napolcom has yet to resolve their administrative cases filed against them, they remain anonymous.

President Marcos Jr, as the countrys top cop, has in fact already accepted the resignation of the two generals, having judged the merits of their cases.

The four names have one thing in common. They were once assigned at the PNP Drug Enforcement Group .

The panel also endorsed the filing of administrative charges before Napolcom for alleged violation of PNP rules and regulations for involvement in illegal drug activities.

Aside from Azurin, the other members of the panel were Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, former Defense Secretary Gilbert Gibo Teodoro, retired police General Isagani Nerez and Court of Appeals Associate Justice Melchor Sadang.

With this act of cleansing the police of scalawags, it is hoped the faith and confidence of the people in the PNP as the guardian of the peoples safety and for peace and order will once again be restored.

As far as I am concerned, the restoration of the peoples confidence and faith in the police may take some time, however.

Lets just say that its only the beginning.

***

Press Freedom

The observance of the World Press Freedom Day had ranked the Philippines as among the worst places for journalists, citing numerous killings.

While I believe its partly true there have been killings of journalists in the country, observers should separate those that were killed because of their reports as journalists and journalists who were killed because of personal reasons, especially in the province.

What I say is that journalism is not a profession for those who are afraid to tell the facts and the truth when they write news.

As a columnist for many decades, I say it is also the responsibility of journalists, especially columnists, to hold people accountable for their actions.

In doing so, journalists must be fair and report balanced news for the sake of truth and justice.

I say groups like the UN should not just lump Filipino journalists into two groups  journalists against those in power and those who are not.

Thats the mistake of the Western Press  if you are for those in power, you lose your freedom as a journalist, and if you are against them, you are a hero. Santa Banana, this observation is short-sighted.

Press freedom cant be just one way. If a journalist tends to support those in power, he is also free. It does not mean that a journalist is suppressed and curtailed.

The only time, to me, in the Philippines when the press was not free was during Martial Law when media outlets were closed, but soon enough freedom was restored.

(Editors Note: In the early months of Martial Law in 1972, the so-called Big Four  Reuters, AP, UPI and Agence France-Presse  and other foreign-based news organizations with correspondents then in the Philippines had their reports read by the governments press censor, but otherwise they had the freedom to report on the Philippines).

What I can say about freedom of the press is when media owners  print, radio and television  do not pay their media workers, particularly journalists, what they deserve, since journalists are in pursuit of facts and the truth and expose themselves day and night to danger.

Low pay and the non-payment of perks and benefits due to media workers expose the press to corruption.

The low pay and corruption besides the killing of journalists are the greatest danger to press freedom.

I would say with all the dangers that journalists in the Philippines are faced with, we journalists should be highly paid.

But, sadly, we are not. That too curtails press freedom.

***

Masks Should Be Mandatory

I am surprised that with the present surge in COVID-19 cases, the President and the Department of Health have not made the wearing of face masks mandatory, not only in enclosed places, but everywhere.

The latest Omicron sub-variant  the XBB.1.16 Arcturus  is highly contagious and easily passed from one person to another.

And masking is the best way to stop the surge and uptick.

I, for one, always wear a mask outside our house and whenever an outsider comes to the house.

I may be accused of being extra-careful, but at my age, I cannot be too careful.

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District Health Department #10 is hosting Ready, Set, Go! School Readiness Clinics at locations throughout the month of June.

The school readiness clinic will have vision and hearing screenings, dental screenings, immunizations and a chance to meet Spiderman and Elsa.

Any adolescent ages 3-19 that need immunizations or visual and hearing screenings to attend school, preschool or daycare, can register by calling 231-355-7548.

The dates and addresses for the Ready, Set, Go! School Readiness Clinics are listed below:

June 1

Oceana County, 3986 N. Oceana Drive, Hart.

June 2

Lake County, 5681 S. M-37, Baldwin.

June 6

Mecosta County, 14485 Northland Drive, Big Rapids.

June 9

Kalkaska County, 625 Courthouse Drive, Kalkaska.

June 13

Newaygo County, 1049 E. Newell St., White Cloud.

June 14

Mason Countym 916 Diana St., Ludington.

June 16

Manistee County, 385 Third St., Manistee.

June 20

Crawford County, 501 Norway St., Suite #1, Grayling.

June 23

Missaukee County, 6180 W. Sanborn Road Suite #1, Lake City.

June 27

Wexford County, 521 Cobb St., Cadillac.

Michigan law requires children to be up to date with required immunizations on or before the first day of school/childcare. A child who fails to meet this requirement will not be admitted to school/childcare.

The Revised School Code requires that parents of children entering kindergarten present a statement to school officials confirming that they have received the Michigan Department of Community Health Vision Screening or a statement, signed by a licensed eye care practitioner or medical/osteopathic physician, indicating that a childs eyes have been examined at least once after age three and before initial school entry may also be presented.

Michigan passed a law to give children the opportunity to receive a dental assessment prior to starting school, called the Michigan Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Program.

The health department is also providing no-cost oral health assessments for children. For more information on school readiness, visit dhd10.org.
File photo

ONEKAMA  After the Onekama Consolidated Schools Board of Education narrowed the field of prospective superintendents to two candidates last week, one candidate withdrew from the running.

Craig Carmoney, retired superintendent of Meridian Public Schools currently serving as principal of Saginaw Chippewa Academy in Mount Pleasant, "withdrew and took employment elsewhere," according to Onekama Consolidated Schools' website.
LANSING  Michigan could restore laws requiring polluters to pay for cleanup of contaminated land and water amid a flurry of efforts by the Legislatures new Democratic majority to roll back decades of Republican policies.

I would very much expect that, said Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, the majority whip.

McMorrow added that strengthening the laws would be instrumental to us as we think about the future of this state and what is going to attract and retain people here.

Were the Great Lakes state, and we have a huge responsibility to that asset in a way that no other state in the country does, McMorrow said.

Michigan used to have some of the strongest polluter pay laws in the country, but those laws were significantly narrowed under former Gov. John Engler in 1995.

Since 1995, the number of contaminated sites in Michigan has really exploded, said Sean McBrearty, the legislative and policy director for Clean Water Action, an environmental advocacy group headquartered in East Lansing.

According to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, there are over 24,000 contaminated sites in Michigan, about half of which are orphan sites where no responsible party still exists  meaning taxpayers will be responsible for covering the cost of cleaning those sites.

When we look at this economically, what were seeing here is another unaccountable giveaway to irresponsible corporations, McBrearty said.

What we need this Legislature to address is to bring back our polluter pay program to ensure that the responsible corporations, not taxpayers, are on the hook for cleaning up contaminated sites moving forward.

Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, introduced a bill in 2021 to reinstate the requirement that polluters restore contaminated areas to standards for residential land use or drinking water. The bill stalled in the Republican-controlled Legislature.

But that proposal would have stopped short of fully restoring the previous law. It left out a provision that assigned joint and several liability to current and former owners of a contaminated site  meaning both the original polluter and anyone who acquired the mess would be responsible for cleaning it up.

That is really the crux of the polluter pay law, McBrearty said. Democrats across the state, from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on down, campaigned on making polluters pay to clean up their messes instead of having that fall on taxpayers.

Now is the perfect opportunity for them to stand up for what they promised Michigan voters, McBrearty said.

Irwin said the provision was viewed as a non-starter when Republicans held the majority, but could be possible with Democrats in charge.

Obviously, I can dust off what we had introduced in the past and put that in right away, Irwin said, but prefers to introduce a new version of the legislation after a new conversation around whats possible in this new environment.

Irwin added that discussions about what to include in the bill are ongoing, including the fact that many contaminated sites pose a public health risk.

My sincere hope is that now, those of us in the Legislature can sit down with stakeholders, the environmental community, industry and the governors office to hammer out some improvements, Irwin said.

Currently, the process of forcing a polluter to pay for cleanup must go through the legal system, which can take years to play out.

McBrearty said, The concern is that we have such a large backlog of over 24,000 contaminated sites, located in all 83 counties across the state. Imagine the amount of time it would take, and resources, for the state to sue every company individually.

Attorney General Dana Nessels office said in a statement that while Nessel has not reviewed specific legislation, she has long been a proponent for fairer polluter pay laws.

When corporations release dangerous chemicals into our air, water and soil, they should be responsible for any cleanup instead of leaving the bill to the taxpayers, Nessels office said.
Boston police found two men who were shot in Mattapan on Sunday and they are asking for the publics assistance while the shootings are investigated.

Officers responded at around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday to 66 Wildwood St. to a call of a person shot, according to a police statement. Police found two men with gunshot wounds when they arrived.

Both men were taken to area hospitals, where one man died. The second victim is being treated for life-threatening injuries, Boston police said.

Neither of the victims names were disclosed.

Boston police are investigating and ask that anyone with information reach out to detectives at (617) 343-4470.

Anyone who wants to anonymously help with the investigation can call the CrimeStoppers tip line at 1-800-494-TIPS or by texting the word TIP to CRIME (27463). The Boston Police Department said it will protect the identities of those who wish to help the investigation anonymously.
Its been a while since we mentioned Bostons Harpoon Brewery, and I just received some noteworthy news that will remedy that.

Harpoon, which was the brewer of New Englands original IPA, just released two new lager beers, with sales of each going to aid both military families and first responders: Harpoons new American Flyer Light and American Flyer Lager. One dollar of each case sold will support area groups, with American Flyer Lager benefiting Fisher House Foundation, and American Flyer Light helping Folds of Honor.

Fisher House Foundation operates a network of 94 comfort homes where military and veteran families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. Folds of Honor is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Beginning in 2022, it expanded its mission to include first responders.

As Ive said many times, I always love when the brewing community gives back, especially when the brewery is a pioneering Massachusetts one.

As a company that proudly employs several veterans, we have brewed up something special: two new light and refreshing lagers, American Flyer Light and American Flyer Lager, that help support the families of the American military, service members, veterans, and first responders year-round, said Dan Kenary, CEO and co-founder of Mass. Bay Brewing Company. Folds of Honor and Fisher House Foundation are doing incredible work in support of families of American patriots  were proud to give back to these nonprofits and amplify their mission.

American Flyer Light is described as a flavorful yet crushable light lager coming in at 4.2% ABV and just 120 calories per can. American Flyer Lager is described as a bright, crisp and full-flavored golden lager that is 5% ABV.

Both organizations expressed gratitude to Harpoon for the donations.

Harpoon Brewery is now aiding Folds of Honor by donating a generous portion of their new product back towards the organization, said 2019 Folds of Honor scholarship recipient Camille Banks. Each purchase will generate financial support for Folds of Honor and educational scholarships for so many. I want to extend my sincere thanks to Harpoon Brewery again for their wonderful support.

David A. Coker, president of Fisher House Foundation, echoed those thoughts.

Fisher House Foundation appreciates that Harpoon has supported nonprofits for years and are thrilled with this newest effort, he said. Harpoon truly understands that our military and veteran community deserves to be honored and how important it is to provide the resources to help them heal.

Both beers are available now for $13.99 to $14.99. To find the two new brews near you, check out the Harpoon Brewery online beer finder.

Go get some. They seem perfect for the upcoming summer.
Nairobi  President William Ruto has urged the Western world to stop finger-pointing and work together to confront climate change.

The President said climate change poses a threat to all nations that must now work together or perish together.

He said climate change is influencing every conversion across the globe citing education, water provision, agriculture, trade, security, and health.

"Climate change is a global threat. It's not about who contributed to it or not. It's about how we work together to address it," he said.

He spoke during a strategic dialogue on the African Climate Action Summit held at the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Present were former Prime Minister of the Netherlands Jan Peter Balkenende, Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb, Africa Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment Josefa Leonel Sacko, CEO of the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon(Virtually), and Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya.

The President called on developed countries to provide the expertise to leverage Africa's abundant renewable energy.

"Africa is not coming to the table as a victim of climate change but as a partner with the solution to the problem," he said.

The President called for the expansion of the mitigation plans to climate financing and investment.

Mr. Moon said lauded President Ruto for spearheading the campaign on climate change action.

He appealed to multilateral organizations to support the Africa Climate Action summit that will be hosted in Kenya in September.

"2023 will be a pivotal year on how the world will respond to climate change," he said.

Prof Verkooijen urged developed countries to honor their climate finance commitments. - Presidential Communication Service
Theres no shortage of alternatives this year for treating Mom to a day off from cooking; most restaurants and function venues across the Pioneer Valley are promoting sometimes-unique ways to pamper her on her special day. What follows are a few more notable of those dining out options.

Those wishing to celebrate Mothers Day with a taste of South Asian exotic can do so, thanks to the Mothers Day Brunch at Bombay Royale Restaurant in Northampton.

Served from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., the brunch buffet will include appetizers, salads, tandoori kababs, regional Indian specialties, seafood selections, and a special dessert.

The restaurant also will serve its a la carte dinner menu from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

For reservations, call 413-341-3537.

The Tekoa Country Club in Westfield will be serving its annual Mothers Day Brunch on May 14, starting at 11 a.m.

The buffet-style meal will include breakfast favorites like French toast, eggs, and a build-your-own omelet station. For those in a more luncheon frame of mind, chicken cordon bleu, cod piccata, and a roasted vegetable lasagna will be part of the buffet line-up, along with a prime rib carving station.

Reservations are available for an 11 a.m. seating; they can be made by calling 413-568-1626, ext. 2.

Chef-owner Michael Anderson of Tuckers Restaurant in Southwick has put together a special menu for Mothers Day.

The restaurant will be serving from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 14, and among whats on offer are grilled duck breast with a clementine salsa, roast lamb top sirloin with mint pesto, chicken stuffed with ham, apricots, and sharp cheddar, and baked cod garnished with lemon-tarragon panko crumbs.

Among the brunch-styled menu choices are brunch pie and a broccoli and cheddar omelet.

Reservations for Mothers Day at Tuckers Restaurant can be made by calling 413-569-0120.

The East Mountain Country Club in Westfield also will be hosting a Mothers Day brunch.

A breakfast buffet of eggs, waffles, breakfast meats and more will be available, as will a beef and poultry carving station. Seafood and pasta options will also be served, as will an assortment of desserts.

The buffet will be open from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is priced at $35 per person, all-inclusive. Reservations, which are required, can be made online or by calling 413-374-3434.

Villa Napoletana in East Longmeadow will be serving an elaborate Mothers Day brunch from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 14.

The Grand Buffet will feature hand-carved prime rib and honey-glazed ham, made-to-order waffles, and other hot breakfast classics.

A number of luncheon-style options will be available, and dessert will be included as well.

Villa Napoletana will be switching to its dinner menu after 4 p.m. that day.

Reservations for either brunch or dinner can be made by calling 413-732-9300.

Offering panoramas of the Connecticut River and the Mount Holyoke Range beyond, The Boathouse in South Hadley will be serving Mothers Day brunch on May 14, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The restaurants regular menu will be available from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Reservations can be made by calling 413-536-2342.

Krafted Kitchen in East Windsor, Conn., is offering a Mothers Day To-Go Brunch Box.

Created to serve four people, the menu includes strawberry-stuffed French toast, a veggie and cheese quiche, loaded twice-baked potato casserole, pan-fried eggplant rollatini, and chilled pasta primavera.

A fruit and berry platter, citrus salad, and raspberry chocolate chip crumb cake are also part of the to-go feast.

Advance orders are required, and they can be placed online.

Krafted Kitchen answers at 860-506-1452.

**********

Side Dishes

The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant in Springfield is capitalizing on one of their most popular holiday traditions by bringing back the Fort Street Carolers this month.

The Carolers will be on hand Friday and Saturday evenings through May 20 as part of the restaurants Maifest observance. Theyll be performing selections from The Sound of Music, the Rodgers and Hammerstein Broadway classic. As is the case during the holiday season, reservations are essential for those evenings when the Carolers are on hand.

Of course, Maifest at the Student Prince also means Maibock beer, woodruff-scented May wine, and springtime menu specialties.

For more information or to book a table, call the restaurant at 413-734-7474.

**********

On Thursday, May 18, the Brass Rail Meeting House in Southwick will be presenting a charcuterie class.

The presentation will focus on the how-to of putting together an attractive display of meats, cheeses, crackers, and more.

Participation in the class, which costs $40 plus tax and gratuity, includes a glass of wine; a cash bar will also be available.

Reservations can be made online.

**********

On May 21, the Brass Rail will also be kicking off a summer-long Sunday Funday series of vendor fairs. These events will be held every Sunday through Aug. 27 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. However, there will be no Funday event on May 27.

Local vendors will be featured and each Funday will host multiple food trucks. Live music will be also part of the fun. The Brass Rail is still signing up food truck operators whod like to participate in this Funday series.

Contact the Brass Rail Meeting House at 413-569-9585 for more details about either event.

**********

On Wednesday, May 17, from 3 to 8 p.m. the Iron Duke Brewing Company in Ludlow will be hosting Mackens Sliders as part of Iron Dukes Food Truck Wednesday series.

Mackens Sliders is a Southwick-based food truck that specializes in four-bite burgers. Some of the options in their slider line-up include a BBQ Cowboy, A Garlic Bomb, and a gently-spicy Jamaican Jerk Chicken topped with pineapple and slaw.

A Bacon Waffle Cheeseburger is a truck specialty, and, for a vegetarian option, Mackens also prepares a Caprese Slider that layers mozzarella, sliced tomato, and basil pesto.

Iron Duke Brewing Company answers at 413- 624-6258.

**********

The public dining room at the Country Club of Wilbraham, now being operated as 3 Guys at the Grille, will be hosting the band General Gist on Friday, May 12, starting at 7 p.m. General Gist, which specializes in high energy rock, will be performing until 10 p.m.

All are welcome, and reservations for dinner, which is served starting at 5 p.m., can be made by calling 413-596-8887.

**********

Scheduled for May 13 and 14, the Enfield Food Truck Festival is being held at Enfield Square, with more than 20 food trucks signed up to be on site. Admission to the festival is free.

In addition an array of interesting food options, the festival will feature 50 local crafters and vendors as well as games and rides for the young and young at heart.

Festival hours on May 13 are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 14.

Connecticut Food Truck Festivals is the organizer of this event. Their email address is ctfoodtruckfestivals@gmail.com.

**********

On Thursday, May 11, Champneys Restaurant at the Deerfield Inn in Deerfield is launching its Summer Concert Series on the Terrace.

Scheduled for Thursday evenings throughout the summer months, the concerts are rain or shine events that feature local talent. Performances run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Champneys offers a full dinner menu.

Reservations, which are advised, can be made by calling 413-774-5587.

**********

Last week Wendys, Americas number two burger chain, in their words, turned up the heat by introducing two new menu items.

The Ghost Pepper Ranch Chicken Sandwich builds on the chains Spicy Chicken Sandwich by adding ghost pepper-infused American cheese, ghost pepper-seasoned crispy onions, and a creamy ghost pepper ranch sauce to the sandwich build.

The other menu newbie, Ghost Pepper Fries, get a similar flavor upgrade in the form of a spicy fry sauce coating.

Ghost peppers, originally grown in India, are one of the worlds hottest peppers, rated at 170 times hotter than Tabasco sauce. In addition to flavoring super-hot condiments, ghost pepper extract is also used in the formulation of pepper spray canisters.

Hugh Robert is a faculty member in Holyoke Community Colleges hospitality and culinary arts program and has nearly 50 years of restaurant and educational experience. Robert can be reached online at OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com.
The former Massachusetts National Guardsman accused of posting top-secret military documents on the internet will get another day in court before a federal magistrate decides whether his pre-trial release poses a threat.

U.S. Magistrate Judge David H. Hennessy will reopen a detention hearing for Jack Teixeira at 2 p.m. Thursday in the federal courthouse in Worcester.

It will be Teixeiras second appearance before Hennessy, as the judge prepares to decide whether to order that he continue to be held since arrest, as prosecutors want.

Hennessy took 90 minutes of arguments from the government and Teixeiras court-appointed lawyers on April 27.

Teixeira was arrested and charged in April under the Espionage Act and faces up to 25 years in prison.

Federal prosecutors say Teixeira, 21, a low-level IT employee who had been stationed at the Otis Air National Guard base, had high-level access to classified documents.

Teixeira enlisted in the U.S. Air National Guard in 2019, officials have said. Since May 2022, he held the rank of an E-3/Airman, with the title of Cyber Defense Operations Journeyman.

A government memo says that starting around February 2022, Teixeira began to access hundreds of classified documents containing national defense information that had no bearing on his role as essentially an information technology (IT) support specialist.

Documents he obtained were posted on the social media site Discord, including sensitive materials related to the war in Ukraine.

A Homeland Security vehicle, right, is parked outside the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston April 19. Jack Teixeira, the Massachusetts Air National Guardsman charged with leaking highly classified military documents, faces a court appearance Thursday related to his pre-trial detention. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Teixeiras lawyers contend it was another social media user who disseminated the military secrets. They say Texiera shared the material with a small, private group.

In making a case that Teixeira be held, prosecutors presented the court with evidence of the defendants long history of making threats in social media posts.

Teixeira said this in a social media post, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Nadine Pellegrini: If I had my way Id kill a f---ing ton of people.

But his attorneys countered that their client has a family history of military service and could be released on conditions that include a curfew and electronic monitoring.

The government, however, said evidence against Teixeira is substantial and mounting  the charged conduct would very obviously end his military career.  He accessed and may still have access to a trove of classified information that would be of tremendous value to hostile nation states that could offer him safe harbor and attempt to facilitate his escape from the United States.
Christmas Tree Shops officially filed for bankruptcy and now plans to close 10 of its stores, including two in Massachusetts.

On Friday, federal court documents revealed the discount home goods store filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Christmas Tree Shops executives stated they plan to close 10 of their stores, including the Sagamore and Falmouth locations, bankruptcy documents read.

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The Sagamore location is well-known for its large windmill that can be seen from the Sagamore Bridge. The two Massachusetts locations  along with eight others in Florida, New York, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Michigan  are expected to close by June 30.

Christmas Tree Shops in Sagamore, MA, including the landmark one near the Sagamore Bridge, pictured on April 29, 2020, which has its own windmill. (Photo by John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)Boston Globe via Getty Images

Christmas Tree Shops had about 80 stores across the east coast and 15 in Massachusetts. In April 2022, store executives moved their Holyoke location out of the Holyoke Mall to the Holyoke Crossing shopping plaza down the street.

The chains new Holyoke location features the CTS rebranding with the slogan Every Season, Every Reason and the name Christmas Tree Shops in smaller lettering on its signage. The rebranding was established to help consumers know the store sells more than just Christmas-themed items.

There have been no details on how Christmas Tree Shops bankruptcy filing will affect its Holyoke location.

Bed, Bath & Beyond recently filed for bankruptcy in April. The home goods retailer purchased Christmas Tree Shops in 2003 before selling the home goods chain to Handil Holdings for an unknown amount in 2020.
Daniel Perras, 59, of Easthampton, pleaded guilty last week to destruction of evidence and improper disposal of a body in Middlesex Superior Court, officials announced Monday.

Perras left the body of a woman who had died of a drug overdose on the side of a road in Westford, threw away her belongings and didnt notify authorities, Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan said. He was sentenced to seven to eight years in state prison on the charge of destruction of evidence and three years of probation on and after for improper disposal of a dead body.

On Feb. 2, 2019, a Westford resident walking his dog on Providence Road found Melissa Mestres body on an embankment, the Middlesex County District Attorney said.

When police arrived, they found Mestre dead, the district attorney said.

Ms. Mestre did not have any identification and investigators initially had no information as to who she was, how she died or how she ended up on the side of the road, the Middlesex district attorney said.

After a lengthy investigation by the Westford Police Department and Massachusetts State Police, authorities were able to identify not only Mestre but Perras, too, Ryan said.

According to Ryan, law enforcement discovered that Perras and Mestre met on Jan. 31, 2019. That same day, Perras picked up Mestre at her home in Springfield. Perras drove Mestre to a house in Haverhill, where he bought a large quantity of heroin from an individual.

After he purchased the heroin, Perras drove back to Western Massachusetts, the Middlesex district attorney said. However, while he was driving, he realized Mestre died of a drug overdose.

Perras pulled off of the highway onto Boston Road in Westford, Ryan said. Perras drove past the fire station and took multiple turns until he eventually ended up on a secluded area of Providence Road.

Perras pulled Mestres body out of his car and left it down on the embankment on the side of the road, Ryan said. He left with her belongings  her purse and cell phone  and never called authorities about Mestres death.

Investigators were able to track Perras along Route 2 to the French King Bridge in Erving, Ryan said. While at that bridge, Perras disposed of Mestres belongings, including her purse and cell phone. Perras then drove to his home.
HOLYOKE  The Holyoke Housing Authority celebrated the completion of the first part of a three-phase plan at South Holyoke Homes aimed at revitalizing and transforming the Carlos Vega Park neighborhood.

The authoritys executive director, Matthew Mainville, said South Holyoke Homes was a testament to community collaboration. Local and state officials joined him during last weeks tour and dedication.

It was great working from the beginning to see it where it is today. Its phenomenal to be a part of an organization here in our community that works collectively, not only with all our funders but also the community, said Mainville.

He added that South Holyoke Homes was involved in extensive community involvement and feedback, ensuring that the development met specific housing needs expressed by residents.

Its about decent, quality housing and thats what we want for everybody. Its the pathway to a good education, health and community, he said.

Matthew Mainville of the Holyoke Housing Authority tours a three-bedroom unit at South Holyoke Homes. (Dennis Hohenberger photo)

Two units are Americans with Disabilities Act compliant, and the remaining 10 are based on 30-50% of the area median Income.

Phase one features one, two and three-bedroom rental units with amenities like a full kitchen with ample counter space, energy-efficient appliances, washer and dryer hookups, central heat and air conditioning.

Installing state-of-the-art energy-efficient systems, such as mini-split heat pumps, benefits the housing authority and its residents and aligns with the citys green initiatives. In addition, durable, low-maintenance materials are incorporated throughout the units, ensuring long life cycles and practicality.

A three-bedroom apartment on the second floor offers a spacious laminate countertop, white appliances, one-and-a-half-bath, and a great view of the park below. We want to make sure that kitchens face the park so if parents are here, they can watch their kids, Mainville said.

South Holyoke Homes overlooks Carlos Vega Park. This a view from a second-floor unit. (Dennis Hohenberger photo)

The development caters to low to moderate-income individuals and families through subsidy-based programs, specifically the Section 8 housing program. Phase one attracted hundreds of applications for the 12 units. The housing authority expects a June move-in date for most renters.

While the completion of the current development marked a significant milestone, Mainville said phase two entails homeownership opportunities and will be situated on the parks western side.

However, the authority reopened the bidding process for phase two as the bids exceeded the current budget. Mainville said homeownership offers families actual financial investment in the community.

Mainville acknowledged the challenges of controlling costs for phase two. He added that the housing authority remains committed to finding viable solutions and ensuring the programs long-term success.

Mainville highlighted advanced security measures within South Holyoke Homes. The complex features an intercom system and surveillance cameras strategically placed throughout the building and its surroundings.

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, state Rep. Patricia A. Duffy, D-Holyoke, Carl Eger Jr. of the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority and Mark Teden of MassHousing joined Mainville for the ribbon-cutting.

Garcia, a housing authority employee for five years, said he was raised one block from South Holyoke Homes. He praised Mainvilles leadership at the authority and his commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable families in the community.

Weve always been a city that looks out for people. I have to remind people that sometimes we get divided and forget. But were a compassionate city, the mayor said.

Teden said South Holyoke Homes represented MassHousings mission and inclusive process. He noted the development was the 20th such multifamily initiative that MassHousing played a role.

It was inclusive; some might say exhausted. It provides thoughtful and respectful building designs and has a financial structure that will help ensure success, Tenden said. He congratulated the stakeholders and affirmed MassHousings commitment to improving housing opportunities in Holyoke.

Duffy spoke of South Holyoke Homes positive impact on residents lives and the neighborhood.

This is about providing affordable, quality housing that improves the overall well-being of our community members, she said. We heard from the community what they wanted and deserved. This is what it takes to make that kind of vision happen.

Phase one funding originated from the Department of Housing and Community Development and MassHousings Community Scale Housing Initiative. Additional support came from the citys HOME program, Holyoke Housing Authority equity and PeoplesBank financing.
State Sen. Adam Gomez is recovering from rushed kidney transplant surgery after a surprise online posting brought him a new organ.

Gomez, D-Springfield, was operated on Wednesday at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston and reached out to close confidants Friday to announce the successful surgery.

Political consultant and long-time friend of the senator, Anthony Cignoli, said Sunday that Gomez had been struggling with chronic kidney disease for quite some time. He had been undergoing dialysis for his failed kidneys and it showed. Gomez lacked his characteristic energy and appeared drawn and jaundiced at public events.

He came to the Italian Consulate opening (in Springfield April 24) and he did not look good, Cignoli said. (The consulate) was a big deal to him, but you could tell he was having a really tough day. But he never said anything, he never complained.

Cignoli said a chance posting on Facebook threw Gomezs life into a whole new direction in a matter of days after he had been on the organ recipient list for quite some time.

The family of a man unknown to Gomez and in the final stages of life posted about his impending death on Facebook and noted he was an organ donor. They hoped someone could benefit from the mans passing. A close friend of Gomezs pointed it out to the senator and a quick test by Brigham doctors found the man to be a suitable donor. That jump-started Gomezs transplant prospects.

Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said he too was informed of the senators successful surgery by Gomezs father, a well-known advocate for veterans in the Springfield area.

I spoke with Adams dad, Sgt. Gumersindo Gomez, and he was so happy for his son. He was elated, Sarno said. Life is so precious and thats why I have been so supportive of the organ donation program.

Sarno said, he too, saw the effects of Gomezs disease on the man.

We knew he was ill for quite a while. But he was a trooper, he said. He would go to his dialysis and then show up at meetings and events. Having had family and friends who have gone through the process, I know just how tiring and debilitating it is. These have been very trying times for the senator and his family.

It was fantastic that a donor came forward and said, My kidney is available, at such a crucial time for Adam. He will have to rest and recover, and I believe be isolated for a while, Sarno said.

Gomez will remain in the Boston hospital for perhaps another week.

According to online resources, chronic kidney disease can be the secondary consequence of other health issues such as Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, obesity or high blood pressure.

The disease can be insidious in that in its first stages the patient may have few signs or symptoms and could be completely unaware until the damage to the kidneys is irreversible. Treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease toward end-stage kidney failure, at which point dialysis or transplant are the only options.

A physician can determine kidney function with an in-office blood or urine test if it is warranted.

Loss of kidney function can cause fluid or waste buildup or problems with electrolytes. Outward symptoms may display as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue or weakness or decreased mental sharpness, among others. The problem with kidney disease is its symptoms are nonspecific and could be the result of many other diseases.

If you have a medical condition that increases your risk for kidney disease, your physician may want to monitor your blood pressure or kidney function.

A persons health is number one, Sarno said. It just shows how precious life is, and to find a new kidney  that is tremendous. Thats why we have always been supportive of the donor choice program because you can save a life.
LONGMEADOW  A man is in the hospital after his vehicle struck a guardrail along Interstate 91 shortly before 10 a.m. Monday, causing the vehicle to break through the railing, launch into the air and spin down into an embankment.

The accident occurred on the northbound side of the freeway three miles into Longmeadow. Longmeadow Fire and EMS helped extract the driver from the vehicle, according to Sgt. Corey Mackey of the Massachusetts State Police.

Four State Police patrols responded to the scene, Mackey said, and they were still there at 11:22 a.m., although the driver had already been transported. One vehicle was involved in the collision and one person was in the vehicle, police said.

The collision kicked chunks of rocks into the road, which were removed by a group of motorists who stopped to provide assistance before state police troopers arrived.

The troopers stepped down into the embankment with orange medical bags to begin to assist the unidentified driver.
Last December, Sarah Herlihy was delivering Christmas cookies to her neighbors house near Boston Common Park. But shortly after she dropped off the festive treats, she said she was attacked by a rat.

The rat, which Herlihy said had been digging through a trash bag left on the street for hours, jumped at her ankles. She responded through a moment of quick thinking.

Its the first time Ive actually had a rat jump at me, Herlihy said. I kind of kicked it off.

Shortly after, the rat collapsed and died and Herlihy called Bostons non-emergency 311 hotline to report the situation. However, she said there wasnt much of a strong reaction from the city.

Have you been having rat problems in Boston? We want to hear from you.

As, a longtime Bay Village resident Herlihy said that shes gotten used to seeing the occasional rodent. However, in the past two years, shes noticed an enormous uptick in street rats.

I dont know that if our reputation is that [were] rat-infested, but we are certainly up there, Herlihy said. I think theres more articles coming out about it and again, Ive just seen a significant uptick in rats just in walking around.

Boston is well known for its rat problem. In 2022, the city was ranked as the 13th rattiest city in the nation, according to Orkins Top 50 Rattiest Cities list.

In April, Boston city council president Ed Flynn proposed that the city create an Office of Pest Control to help reduce the increasing number of rat sightings in the city.

Currently, the citys pest control efforts are divided among three departments Inspectional Services Department, Public Works and the Water and Sewer Commission, according to Flynns proposal. The city council president plans on consolidating this effort into one singular office.

Its important that we streamline and dedicate city resources to one department with the overall responsibility of managing test control issues throughout the city, Flynn said. So having a coordinated approach that addresses pest control, more systematically, holistically and thats what an office of pest control can do.

When Boston restaurants shut down during the early months of the pandemic, more people began to order takeout food at home, Flynn said. As food sources shifted from commercial to residential spaces, more of the citys rodents began to migrate toward peoples homes to find food, leading to an increase in rat sightings, Flynn said.

Flynn said most of the citys rat sightings are taking place in downtown neighborhoods. He added that rats are getting attracted to these neighborhoods through trash bags left on the streets.

To avoid waking up early, many Bostonians leave their trash out on the street the night before garbage collection starts  at 6 a.m. However, in the citys downtown neighborhoods where many residents lack the storage space for trash containers, leaving your trash out unprotected overnight can attract rodents.

Steve Fox, the Chair of the South End Forum, has said that this lack of sealed trash bins in Bostons downtown neighborhoods has almost laid out a feast for the citys rodents.

The key is to remove their food source and they go away. Not 100% by any stretch, but they go away in substantial numbers because they cant survive, Fox said.

In 2019, the city of Boston launched a pilot program that distributed lightweight collapsible bins for South End residents. The pilot, which first started with 30 households on East Brookline Street, was wildly successful, Fox said. The collapsible bins were managed to reduce on-street trash significantly. Despite, the pilots success, it was discontinued due to a shift in the citys administration. Still, residents like Fox would like to see the pilot program return.

So its still kind of waiting there for us to take up the initiative, Fox said. It would be great to have the city council sponsor a pilot program for containerization  collapsible containerization  that would be a terrific thing for them to do.

As for now, Bostons downtown residents are advocating for the city to adopt a new trash contract that would accommodate their rodent problems. Currently, the citys contract with Capitol Waste Services is set to expire in June of 2024. Last month, Nancy Morrisroe, a Bay Village resident, testified during a Boston city council hearing for the city to forge a new trash contract that would start pick-ups at a later time like 10 a.m.

Its just a quality of life issue, Morrisroe said. You dont want to be having to get up for people who dont need to  for retired people, for young parents  you just put it out at a reasonable time in the morning because the rats are nocturnal.

Morrisroe has had her fair share of issues with rodents, too. In 2018, the Bay Village resident was forced to spend days sealing the crevices in her home after she discovered that rats had found their way into her kitchen through her downstairs cat door.

I mean it was a shock, Morrisroe said. I when I mean when you think about it, it makes sense but to actually see it, you know, seeing the head poking through the cat door, it was pretty shocking and terrifying.

Old private sewer lines are another way rodents are finding their way into the citys downtown homes, Fox said. Many of Bostons sewer lines which were built in the 18th and 19th centuries havent been adopted by the city. Some of these ancient artifacts  as Fox calls them  have leaks that attract rodents. And unlike city lines, the residents who use private lines are responsible for maintaining them.

In 2020, Foxs South End apartment became infested with rats after there was a break in one of the buildings underground pipes. Because the broken pipeline was connected to a privately owned connection line, Fox and several residents had to hire a drainage company to replace it.

I have personal experience, knowing that these private lines that are subject to breakage are a major contributor to the rat problem because it is ringing the dinner bell and for us, in my neighborhood in the South End, its a constant issue.

Currently, the Boston Water and Sewer Commission has several projects aimed to reduce the number of rodents in the South Ends pipelines. The Commission also offers assistance to private property owners who have leaky or broken pipes.

The City continues to explore new techniques and technologies for rodent control as they arise and were using new data-based analytics to make sure were both being responsive to complaints as well as being proactive in identifying areas of concern that require additional rodent control efforts, a city spokesperson told MassLive in an email.

As for now, Flynn said he plans to continue advocating for the citys composting pilot program, which supplies communities with compost bins for residents to discard food scraps in. The program, according to Flynn, can help stop rats from coming to peoples neighborhoods and getting into their homes.

So composting is critical but also working with and coordinating with other city departments, also. They have a major role to play in pest control, Flynn said. Its about everybody working together, including residents and neighborhood organizations, the business community and restaurants.
Dear Amy: I am a 16-year-old girl.

School is OK (Im a sophomore), but one thing I notice is the fact that I am really judgmental. I tend to have bad and judgmental thoughts about others.

For example, if I see a girl wearing revealing clothing, I will call her a slut or a whore inside my head. Or if I see a boy wearing pajamas or slides or Crocs at school, Ill think of him as lazy and sloppy.

I also have relatively high standards when it comes to having boyfriends. Most of my standards have to do with clothing and shoes.

Even though Ive never been in a relationship before, I will judge the person by the way they look and if they dont match my standards, then I wont give them a chance.

There is this senior who was talking to me, but since he didnt match my standards, I didnt want to be seen with him around school.

Im one of those people who knows what they dont want, rather than what they do want.

Im trying to figure out what is wrong with me, but I guess Im so used to being the way I am, its hard for me to stop.

Ive been constantly beating myself up over the fact that Im judgmental and not giving people a chance, but I feel like if I dont change, then I wont be able to have a relationship.

What should I do?

 Judgmental Teenager

Dear Teenager: First of all, I admire your motivation to change.

Being judgmental is a universal human trait. When you think about it, using your judgment about others is an important evolutionary survival tool. If you dont know someone personally, you need to rely on your instincts and judgment to discern whether you are safe around them.

I agree with you that the next stage in your development should be to work on the harsh voice in your head in order to let others in  no matter what theyre wearing. When you give others a chance, you are really giving yourself a chance  to grow into the kind of person you want to be.

Can you change? Of course you can! Like all change, it will take time, practice, and persistence.

I do need to offer a corrective observation, and I hope you will pay attention.

The words you use to describe other girls (slut and whore) are rude and sexist, while the words you use to describe boys are much less offensive.

This is an example of how misogyny has permeated our culture, and you  a smart and capable girl  should not perpetuate it, even inside your head.

Using more neutral language will help you to behave differently.

Dear Amy: I have a dear friend who Ive known for over 40 years.

She is the most generous person I know.

Recently she retired and is now traveling with her three dogs.

When shes in town she assumes that she can stay with us for a week or two.

After she has been with us, it takes us a whole day to de-dog the house.

Honestly, I cant do it anymore  especially since one of the dogs is now prone to accidents. I definitely cant handle that!

How do I tell her that her dogs cant stay with us without throwing away our friendship?

 Dreading the Dogs

Dear Dreading: Bringing three dogs to anyones home for an extended stay is a huge lift, but if these dogs are older and infirm, your friend is not going to leave them behind.

Its important that you be honest about this. Understand that this will affect your friendship because she will stop visiting you.

I suggest that you tell her, This is really hard for me to say because I treasure your visits  but I just cant handle having the dogs with us. Can you help me to come up with an alternative?

I assume that your friend lives within driving distance. Maybe you should visit her  or meet her for a few days at another dog-friendly location.

Dear Amy: I was disappointed by your response to Bewildered Daughter in North Carolina, who had forged a relationship with her toxic birth mother, who had given her up for adoption as a baby.

You never mentioned her real parents  the people who raised her!

 Upset

Dear Upset: The letter writer also did not mention her parents, which is why I focused only on her specific question.

(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)

2023 Amy Dickinson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, created as a regulatory watchdog after the police killing of George Floyd in Minnesota, has issued its first report.

One message of this 28-page missive is that the groups work has only just begun  and that to properly monitor and regulate police conduct, more money and staffing will be needed.

The commissions work must be sustained.
Aterian PLC, a British firm specializing in strategic metal exploration and development, has expressed its excitement over the prospect of finding lithium in Rwanda, after various signs have indicated its presence.

The increasing popularity of smart energy, which requires a greater reliance on electric batteries for which lithium is a crucial raw material, has made lithium increasingly competitive on the international mineral market.

Dubbed as "white gold" for electric vehicles (EVs), lithium plays a critical role in the cathodes of all types of lithium-ion batteries that power EVs, although it is also used in the batteries of laptops and cell phones, as well as in the glass and ceramics industry.

In 2018, the Rwandan government called on investors to invest in exploration and processing of lithium in a bid to brand the country as a destination for mining investment.

Luke Rogers, the Chief Operating Officer at Aterian PLC, who is a mining and minerals engineer, said his company has seen a lot of signs of the potential presence of lithium in the country and is confident that Rwanda will be a producer of lithium concentrate in the next ten years. Areas with lithium potential in Rwanda include Rwamagana, Huye, and Muhanga, according to Rogers.

"As Aterian PLC, we have deposits at the moment that have potential for lithium. We got a report recently that confirms that the mineralization we are seeing on the surface gives a high chance that there will be lithium at the depth. It is all to do with geochemistry. If you are seeing certain elements in abundance in one location, it gives an indication that there could be lithium," he said.

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Currently, there are companies in Rwanda that produce amblygonite, a mineral that contains lithium. However, amblygonite is not highly regarded on the international market, and its production is relatively small.

The more exciting story, according to Rogers, is the potential of finding better lithium-containing minerals like Spodumene and Lepidolite, which can be mined in abundance and are easier to process.

As the world produces more batteries and EVs, the demand for lithium is projected to reach 1.5 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) by 2025 and over 3 million tonnes by 2030.

For context, the world produced 540,000 tonnes of LCE in 2021. Based on the demand projections, production needs to triple by 2025 and increase nearly six-fold by 2030.
A Springfield woman in her early 20s was killed in the crash on Interstate 91 in Longmeadow early Sunday morning, according to the Massachusetts State Police Department.

At around 2:55 a.m., State police responded to a multi-vehicle crash on I-91 north just over the Enfield, Connecticut border in Longmeadow.

A 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit heading north on I-91 hit the rear of a 2019 Dodge Ram pickup truck, according to the police investigation. The collision caused the Volkswagen to roll over and ejected a female passenger from the vehicle.

Police said the woman, who is believed to be in her early 20s from Springfield, was hit by several oncoming vehicles on I-91 north after she was ejected.

First responders found her dead on the highway. Authorities are not identifying the woman at this time.

Police said the driver of the Volkswagen, a 29-year-old Springfield man, was seriously injured in the crash and was rushed to Baystate Medical Center by the Agawam Fire Department.

Read more: Driver in Texas crash that killed 8 people to be charged with manslaughter

The Dodge pickup truck stopped at a guardrail during the crash. Police said the four occupants of the truck were also taken to a hospital for treatment.

State police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
SPRINGFIELD  During a working lunch Monday, the Advisory Litter Committee presented their findings in an effort to get the lawmakers representing Springfield to agree to work towards getting more state funding for litter cleanup along the areas highways.

None of the lawmakers made the meeting, but rather, they sent their aides to pass along the information they received at the forum.

The Advisory Litter Committee was appointed by City Councilor Victor Davila in December 2022 to study litter in the Forest Park neighborhood. In March, it suggested a dozen steps to combat strewn trash. It said in the report it hoped its recommendations would be adopted accross the city.

Among its recommendations, it suggested lawmakers representing Springfield seek more funding for Massachusetts Department of Transportations budget to maintain regular cleaning operations.

State senators Adam Gomez and Jacob Oliveira were scheduled to attend the meeting, according to Erica Swallow, chair of the advisory committee.

Gomez is currently recovering from a kidney transplant surgery.

State Rep. Bud L. Williams said he and other lawmakers had scheduling conflicts. He, however, said he agrees that MassDOT can do a better job and hasnt gotten the full report from the committee yet.

Whatever we can do to help to make the problem a lot more acceptable, he said, adding the representatives have to focus on their whole districts.

Angelica J. Core, the legislative aide to state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, said the state representative suggested MassDOT hire a cleaning crew just for the Western Massachusetts area, so the highways in Springfield are cleaned.

In a written statement, Gonzalez urged MassDOT to better collaborate with city and neighborhood leaders.

We will continue to advocate for a larger MDOT presence in Springfield and challenge them to have a dedicated crew to our city, the largest in Western MA with the most highways, Gonzalez said.

The committees recommendation is one of the dozen it created after it sought input from city officials and residents.

MassDOT would be responsible for cleaning interstates 90, 91, 291 and other state-owned lands that abut city properties, should state delegates succeed in increasing their funding, according to the committees proposal.

State represenatives Angelo Puppolo Jr., Orlando Ramos and Brian Ashe are additional legislators the committee is calling on to work with MassDOT.

One of the next steps, according to Swallow, is for Davila to meet with Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi to learn more about community service programs and the potential to expand them in relation to litter cleanup.

Davila also plans to draft a resolution for MassDOT to encourage them to work with the committee.

MassDOT did not return a request for comment.

Swallow said they plan to follow up with the state lawmakers in two months.

People dont want to travel here and visit here if they go to downtown Springfield (and the) entire highway is full of trash, Swallow said.
A Wilbraham woman was arrested after a loaded high-capacity handgun was found in her purse in the Hampden County courthouse Friday, according to Springfield police.

At 11:25 a.m. Friday, police responded to a loaded firearm found at Springfields Roderick J. Ireland Courthouse. Police said the courthouses X-Ray machine detected a gun in the purse of Cristal Matos, a 20-year-old Wilbraham woman.

Springfield police immediately placed Matos under arrest after the firearm discovery.

Court records show that Matos was reporting to probation for prior gun charges.

She was charged with carrying a firearm without a license, carrying a loaded firearm without a license and possession of a high-capacity magazine/feeding device.

Police said Matos handgun had more than 10 rounds inside the magazine. Under Massachusetts law, if a magazine can hold more than 10 rounds it is considered high capacity and illegal.
Last weeks showers wont be seeing a repeat this week, especially for the Brimfield Flea Markets, also known as the Brimfield Antique Flea Markets, which starts on Tuesday.

The remnants of a warm weekend will carry on into Monday, where Brimfields expected to reach 73 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Overall conditions in Massachusetts are expected to yield really another gem of a day, as forecasters put it.

Spring fever, enjoy! the weather service said about Mondays weather.

Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to be the cooler days of the flea markets, with temperatures peaking at 65 on Tuesday and 68 on Wednesday, with temperatures dipping down to 37 on the first day and 45 on the second. Skies are expected to see sunshine on both days.

Skies stay sunny or partially sunny from Thursday to the end of the event on Sunday, forecasters said. Temperatures are expected to go up and down across the 70s, with winds kicking up a little to around 10 mph.

The likelihood of any rain this week remains very low. The Weather Channel said the chances for rain between Monday and Friday ebbs under 5%, and those chances inch slightly upward at 17% on Saturday and 13% on Sunday, the final day of the flea markets.

Prior forecasts suggested rain on Sunday night. Those chances for showers have been pushed back a whole day, where Monday, May 15, holds a 48% chance for rain. Forecasters anticipate considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers.

Even if theres a last-minute change-up in the forecast, the Brimfield Flea Markets said on its website that the events are held rain or shine from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., though times vary depending on when booths are open. For the full schedule of events and when booths are open, head over to their website at the link here.

After May 14, the next round of flea markets will be held July 11 to July 16, then once more in 2023 between Sept. 5 and Sept. 10.
Worcesters first woman mayor and highly regarded womans voting rights activist, Sara Robertson, died at 88 years old, according to the Telegram & Gazette.

Robertson died from an illness in her Hobe Sound, Florida home Sunday, her family told the Telegram & Gazette.

She served as Worcesters mayor from 1982 to 1984. Born in Long Beach, California, Robertson took the trek to the East Coast to study at Boston University in 1962, according to a 2006 interview with the Worcester Womens Oral History Project.

Read more: Worcester board OKs plan to convert Kane Building to apartments

At first glance, with the citys smokestacks and dense housing, Robertson said Worcester was the worst environment shes ever seen, she claimed in the 2006 interview. After some time, Robertson stated she was very wrong and moving to the city would turn out to be one of the greatest decisions she ever made in her life.

The first thing Robertson did after arriving in Worcester was join the League of Women Voters. While in the organization, she helped break several barriers including allowing women to sit down and observe city council meetings, she said in the interview.

She would later be inducted as a member of the Worcester School Committee in 1969 where she helped advocate for libraries and additional extracurricular activities in Worcester schools.

Read more: Worcester teachers vote no confidence in city leaders after city seeks mediator

Robertson become the fourth woman elected into Worceters city council in 1979 before she would claim the mayors seat in 1982.

In an interview with the Telegram & Gazette, Konstantina B. Lukes, the only other woman to serve as mayor of Worcester from 2007 to 2009, said it was awesome seeing Robertson occupy the mayors seat.

Like anyone who breaks barriers and accomplishes new goals, theres always going to be some resistance, some lack of acceptance. She had to face all those barriers. And she handled it with grace, said Lukes.
As important as the entire agricultural sector is to the economy, the poultry sub-sector remains a major driver of growth in the sector.

Penultimate weekend, I was at The Polytechnic Ibadan, Oyo State, where I bumped into some young people talking about the imminent collapse of a poultry farm located somewhere on the outskirts of the city.

I listened in as one of the young men regaled the gathering with tales of how losses and non-payment of salaries have frustrated the poultry owner(s) and forced many "casual workers" out of the workforce. Apparently, like many other young people, the young man was one of the casual workers who relied on money he earned working at the poultry farm to fund their education. That encounter, for the umpteenth time, heightened my fear about the dire conditions Nigerian poultry farmers now find themselves.

Prior to that period, I had watched several disturbing videos of farmers lamenting the losses incurred due to the CBN cash crunch and how they now struggle to stay in business in the face of mounting debts. The social media space is also awash with videos of poultry farmers destroying tens and hundreds of crates of (spoiled/rotten) eggs they couldn't sell at the height of the uncertainty thrown up by the naira scarcity.

But the losses recorded against the backdrop of the CBN naira redesign policy only worsened an already bad situation; all of the signs of uncertainties have been palpable in the sector all along.

Long before the recent cash crunch-induced glut forced many poultry farmers out of business, the sector has been plagued by numerous concerns in the past. Last year, at a meeting held by the Plateau State chapter of Poultry Association of Nigeria, Nanji Gambo, the state secretary, stated that there was a decline in the membership of the body because some producers were abandoning the business. The PAN official listed the high cost of feeds and huge losses as some of the underlying causes.

Earlier in March, poultry farmers had lamented how the cash crunch affected sales of poultry products (eggs, broilers, etc) amidst high prices of poultry feeds, despite recording unprecedented losses and selling off their chickens at ridiculous prices just to remain in business.

It's been a very sad period for these business owners!

The agriculture sector has contributed an average of about 24% to National GDP since 2018, providing opportunities for Nigerians across its four major (sub-)sectors--crop production, fishing, livestock/poultry and forestry. The sector also employs more than 36% of Nigeria's labour force and ranks easily as the largest employer of labour in the country.

But the sector isn't without its challenges. According to the GDP report released by the nation's statistics bureau in February, the agriculture sector grew by 2.05 per cent as its performance was significantly hampered by severe incidences of flood recorded last year. In fact, the NBS said that even though the performance of the services sector improved in 2022, the agriculture and industry sectors (under)performances negatively impacted the overall GDP numbers significantly.

Meanwhile, as important as the entire agricultural sector is to the economy, the poultry sub-sector remains a major driver of growth in the sector. In 2019, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) categorised the poultry sub-sector as the most commercialised of all Nigeria's agricultural sub-sectors, with a net worth of N1.6 trillion. That represented about 25% of agricultural contributions to the GDP, according to the CBN.

A separate Rabobank's 2017 report (A Time for Africa) noted that four West African countries including Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, Benin, and Nigeria show the most potential for poultry sector development, in terms of increasing local demand and the incentives available, both fiscal and non-fiscal. Apart from being a major source of protein for many Nigerians, it also employs about 25 million persons across the value chain, according to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, which also claims that the sector supports the livelihood of more than 13 million households who earn part or all their income from this business.

Given how problematic it could be to get verifiable data in Nigeria's largely informal economy, one could infer that the numbers could be higher and the sector's impact more significant.

Should those who toil to create jobs and nourish the populace in such an important sector then be left in the lurch?

At the National Feed Summit organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD), PREMIUM TIMES, and other partners recently, the concerns around high cost of feeds were on the front burner. But the high cost of feeds--driven partly by grain shortage--is just one of the many problems bedeviling the sector, among which are high cost of generating electricity, logistic issues, insecurity, transportation challenges, and, most recently, the naira scarcity and its devastating effects that have almost crippled the sector today.

In the midst of the melee, many poultry owners have had to either sell their eggs at ridiculous prices or watch helplessly as they rot away, throwing them out of business. Last week, a poultry owner told me he sold eggs for as low as between N500 and N400 per crate, as against the market prices of between N1700 and N1900 per crate, just to minimise the losses. Some poultry owners who attempted to stop the hens from laying eggs by starving them of feeds recorded massive losses too.

As part of measures to address the challenge, states like Lagos, Plateau and Ogun came to the aid of poultry farmers in their states, according to media reports. Ogun, for instance, bought 10,000 crates, while Lagos facilitated the mop-up of 300,000 eggs. While the move by the states remains commendable in the interim, what's not debatable is that it wouldn't have much impact when we look at the big picture. The mop-up done by Ogun, for instance, is said to be equivalent to off-taking just one-day production from a single poultry farm!

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In March, the National President of Poultry Association of Nigeria, Sunday Onallo-Akpa, lamented how poultry farmers are being thrown out of business in the face of huge debts. He claimed that farmers had lost over 15 million crates of eggs being unsold and were damaged, with the average loss estimated "in excess of over N30 billion." As part of measures to support the association, he appealed to the Federal Government to mop up the eggs for distribution to the most vulnerable old populations as part of the Social Investment Support to Nigerians.

But beyond such stop-gap, largely unsustainable approaches, to address deep-rooted institutional problems like these, the nation must look into more enduring solutions that would provide jobs, protect businesses, and ensure food security. Efforts must be channeled toward fixing energy-related issues, addressing security concerns, and providing storage facilities that could ease logistic issues. Provision of credit facilities to poultry owners could go a long way in empowering farmers and addressing many of these underlying issues, too.

With its immense impact on the lives of many Nigerians, the poultry sub-sector is too important to be left in ruins.
Nairobi  Kenyans can now receive birth and death certificates for their kin on the same day of application.

Julius Bitok, the Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizens, has affirmed the implementation of a new business process as part of the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency in service delivery to Kenyans.

"I am directing all registration officers to ensure every person who walks into our offices leaves with the document on the same day. We are doing this so that, as a country, we can officially record more deaths than the 55% that is the current rate," he said.

Bitok emphasized that the new directive, effective immediately, intends to eliminate the backlog of pending applications and prevent applicants from enduring prolonged waits for their documents, thereby reducing their frustrations.

"The countrywide fast-tracking of the issuance of the certificates is also targeted at encouraging higher levels of registration," he said.

He urged the public, chiefs, and their assistants to promptly report every death to the relevant government offices.

He highlighted that unreported deaths can jeopardize the succession process within families and may encourage fraudulent activities such as impersonation.

"What it means when 45 out of every 100 deaths are not registered is that families may not be able to inherit the property of a deceased. In other cases, you will have dead people voting and doing other illegalities," he said.

Bitok further encouraged residents to utilize the new offices to obtain birth certificates, which are mandatory for school enrollment and the issuance of ID cards and passports.

Currently, the national average for birth registration stands at approximately 87 percent.
by Adam Buckman , Featured Columnist, May 8, 2023

Artificial intelligence and law enforcement are not a good combination at all.

Thats the gist of a new FBI drama coming to Hulu this week. The show -- Class of 09 -- is about an AI future in which crime in America is substantially tamped down with the use of advanced AI tools.

This raises the question: At what price to individual freedom?

With a storytelling technique that time-shifts backward and forward to the past, present and future, Class of 09 traces the lives of a group of young FBI agents, starting with their days together as trainees in 2009 at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

There, they meet and socialize in the Academy dorm where they behave like typical college students, although they are all somewhat north of college age.

In one of the first scenes, while they are assembled in an auditorium for an orientation, one grinning male agent-in-training actually writes a note and passes it to a comely female agent as if theyre in middle school.

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The goo-goo-eyed flirtations continue at various times when the show shifts back to the Academy in 2009.

In this way, the back history of this Class of 09ers is positioned as necessary for us to understand the characters as they evolve into the present day of 2023 and beyond (the future year is not specified in Episode One).

While watching the first episode, I found it unnecessary. The agents life stories had the effect of dulling a show that came alive only in the present day and future.

Whenever the year or decade of the shows future scenes, we learn late in Episode One that by that time, the FBI has had AI technologies in its crime-fighting arsenal for about 10 years.

This is revealed at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing convened to hear testimony from the FBI director who ushered in this new tech era for the Bureau.

He wants to extend his tenure another five years, and the committee wants to hear why they should keep him on.

And so he makes his case. I have overseen one of the most radical changes to the way the Bureau operates, testifies Director Tayo Michaels (played by Brian Tyree Henry).

Ive integrated ground-breaking technology to the investigative process -- artificial intelligence that misses nothing and judges everyone as equals, he says.

And as a consequence we have all enjoyed one of the steepest periods of criminal decline that this country has ever seen. We can now say that not only are we one of the greatest nations on Earth, we are also one of the safest.

Michaels, who is also a member of the Class of 09, seems mild-mannered, pragmatic and soft-spoken. But does his demeanor mask some sort of sinister purpose?

If the system is so great, why do you need five more years? asks one of the committee members.

Progress, he says. Its like a child, isnt it? You must protect it. You must keep your arms around it, and thats why Im here.

Like all such AI fiction, Class of 09 is descended from HAL (which stands for Heuristically programmed ALgorithmic computer), the famed artificial life force from 2001: A Space Odyssey.

That was long before the current AI moment we are all experiencing now. Have you ever noticed that in every single movie or TV drama since 2001, mankind has never, ever benefited one bit from AI?

Based on that, it is reasonable to assume that the FBIs AI in Class of 09 will come to no good.

Class Of 09 premieres on Wednesday (May 10) on Hulu.
by Joe Mandese @mp_joemandese, May 8, 2023

More than a year after the biggest media sellers began certifying their own advertising currencies -- and months after they organized a joint industry committee that media-buyers were invited to participate in to further certify others -- I finally got a chance to ask them this question in a public setting:

"Why has the demand-side capitulated on currency?

The setting was MediaPost's recent Outfront Forum in New York City, and it was during the Q&A portion of my colleague Wayne Friedman's opening panel on the upcoming 2023-24 upfront negotiations.

Apologies that it has taken me so long to come back to this anecdote, but we've had a couple of weeks of intense upfront, newfront and JIC-related things to cover and this has been my first opportunity to come back to the question.

I heard a couple of things in response to it, especially that media buyers don't like being called out on stage for capitulating about marketplace issues. Naturally, they denied it, and went on to send even more confusing signals about what their positions are -- and their belief in what the JIC -- is actually supposed to accomplish.

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GroupM's Mike Fisher was most vocal about it, and after denying that the sell-side has so far been controlling the narrative about the JIC's purpose and goals, explained GroupM's policy on it:

"It is not meant to establish a currency. It is meant to establish  at least in GroupMs opinion  its meant to establish a minimum standard that both the buy and the sell side should be willing to accept," he said, adding, "At least in year one  of what we believe [is] new, better quality, more accountable and transparent measurement can be for the ecosystem."

If I understood Fisher correctly, that sounds to me like it's the opposite of certifying currencies, and more about establishing floors for which they can even be considered. And if that's the case, my follow up question is why hasn't anyone been saying that to date, because going back to the sell-side-controlled narrative, that's not what sales organizations have been saying for the past year about their own, individual certifications of suppliers like iSpot or VideoAmp, or in recent months about the JIC's certification goals.

If I've been hearing that narrative correctly, they've been explicitly stating that they are certifying them as tradable currencies.

"The whole purpose of this is not to bless a specific vendor or currency or methodology," Fisher continued to clarify in response to my question, adding, "It's to make clear to the marketplace what we as buyers and sellers want out of currencies long-term."

One of the reasons I'm coming back to that with today's "RTBlog," is to amplify that so that it is perfectly clear, because it is different than what I've been hearing from the sell-side over the past few weeks, including during the JIC's upfront event the other week.

They continue to talk about certification like it's minting new currencies and they've even gone so far as to bash the market's actual, existing "legacy" currency for endorsing the industry's long-standing self-regulatory standard -- Media Rating Council accreditation -- as "weaponizing" a process.

This, of course, is not the first time I've heard such topsy turvy logic or mixed signals coming out of the mouths of both sides during this point heading into an upfront negotiation. This will be the 41st one I've covered.

Dentsu Media's David Sederbaum went on to clarify that "just because the sell-side might be the most vocal, doesn't mean they're controlling the narrative," even though that's precisely how one controls the narrative, at least in terms of the public marketplace, how the trade press covers it, and how people may or may not think because of it.

Sederbaum confided that the true goals of the JIC are something the buy-side talks about "on a daily basis internally." And at least one time publicly on the stage of a MediaPost event.

"I don't know what we've capitulated at this point," Horizon Media's Mike O'Connor said closing the discussion on my capitulation question.

"What tends to happen -- last year and this year -- is there is a huge build up of the conversation around currency, and then as you think about operationalizing -- when it comes down to actual negotiations, there will be movement, but the majority of what will be transacted on is Nielsen legacy currency."
by Colin Kirkland , May 8, 2023

SoundCloud, the 14-year-old music streaming platform, has launched a new tool to help artists engage with their listeners, inviting artists to direct-message their followers while learning more about them via SoundCloud's proprietary data.

Fans is now available on SoundCloud for Artists. The company says around 10,000 artists were using the tool prior to Mondays beta release, sending fans links to unreleased tracks and setting up meet-and-greet events.

But now the tool will be open to more than 50,000 artists who subscribe to the platforms Next Pro product, which provides SoundCloud artists with unlimited track uploads, track management tools, a premium profile badge and more.

Artists using Fans can now tap into the platforms proprietary data -- collected from SoundClouds fan-powered royalties model introduced in 2021, which took into account who users were listening to in-app alongside overall streams -- and sort their most engaged listeners based on comments, listening behavior, sharing habits and location.

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Fans will let an artist know which listeners of theirs are artists themselves.

SoundCloud says that the new tool stems from a desire to provide artists with direct access to their fans.

Our company was founded and built on helping artists share and connect through music, said Tracy Chan, senior vice president of SoundClouds Creator business. And, let's face it: building a fanbase (and being able to activate those fans when you need to) is the only real way to make music your livelihood.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 8, 2023

Google is urging a federal appellate court to reject Android users' attempt to revive a lawsuit claiming the company misappropriated bandwidth by collecting app-related data.

In papers filed Friday with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, Google says the Android users are attempting to manufacture liability for common practices.

Like all modern cell phones, Android devices cause data to be transmitted from the device to various servers, Google argues. These data transmissions on Android devices include transmissions to and from Google servers to enable a range of useful functions, from ensuring that devices have up-to-date security protocols to enabling features of Google applications like Maps and Gmail.

The company's argument comes in a battle dating to November of 2020 by Joseph Taylor and other Android users, alleged in a class-action complaint that Google misappropriated their cellular data by collecting app-related information when the apps weren't in use.

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The allegations drew on Vanderbilt University professor Douglas Schmidt's 2018 paper about passive data transfers, which said idle Android devices sent data to Google hundreds of times each day.

U.S. District Court Judge Virginia DeMarchi in the Northern District of California dismissed the lawsuit at an early stage last year, essentially ruling that even if the allegations were proven true, they wouldn't show that Google misappropriated the smartphone users' "property."

A utility customer may plausibly be said to consume a discrete quantum of water, gas, or electricity in a manner that makes that specific quantum of water, gas, or electricity unavailable to any other customer, she wrote. The allegations of the complaint do not plausibly establish that use of a cellular data network involves the exclusive consumption of a quantum of data.

She also said the complaint's allegations, even if true, wouldn't establish that Taylor and the others were injured by any data transfers.

The Android users recently urged the 9th Circuit to revive their claims, arguing that DeMarchi should have allowed them to attempt to prove that Google secretly hijacked their cellular data.

Google counters in its new papers that the smartphone users' argument rest on the mistaken premise ... that when customers contract for cellular data plans, they purchase specific 'bytes of cellular data' from the carrier, in the same manner a customer with a shopping subscription might purchase an article of clothing.

The company also says there are no claims that the passive data transfers interfered with people's devices.

No plaintiff alleges that their cellular speeds were throttled as a result of the data transfers, Google argues. Nor does any plaintiff allege that they were charged more as a result of the transfers.

The 9th Circuit has not yet scheduled a hearing date.
Lauretta Onochie recently bypassed the managing director of the NDDC and made direct approvals to the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, to make some payment as if she was the NDDC accounting officer, a source told PREMIUM TIMES.

Chairperson of the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Lauretta Onochie, has been insisting on being the accounting officer of the commission against the provision of the Act establishing the commission, PREMIUM TIMES has gathered.

The managing director is the chief executive and accounting officer of the commission, according to Part IV (b) of the NDDC Act 2000, and is vested with the responsibility for the day-to-day administration of the commission.

The law gives the board a supervisory role over NDDC management.

Mrs Onochie's stance has thrown the agency into a leadership crisis that may cripple its operations, at least four sources familiar with the development have told this newspaper.

The chairperson and the Managing Director of NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, clashed in January immediately after the inauguration of the board over who is the chief executive officer between them, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

"Immediately after the inauguration of the NDDC board, she (Onochie) travelled the following day to Port Harcourt. The MD of NDDC was surprised to see her on the same flight to Port Harcourt.

"When they got to Port Harcourt, the MD realised she was also heading to the NDDC headquarters to take over the running of the commission as if she was the CEO," a source in the NDDC said.

"There was some kind of drama because she was struggling with the MD as to who would take over the commission, when it is the MD who is the CEO that should take over the commission.

"When the MD advised her that she should allow management to take over and then an agenda could be set for a proper board meeting, she refused to listen."

The source said Mrs Onochie, without Mr Ogbuku's knowledge, immediately invited all the board members via text messages for a meeting in Port Harcourt.

"It was at that meeting that she announced she was going to be a signatory to the NDDC account, whereas the accounting officer recognised by the government is the MD.

"Even when she was advised against it by the (NDDC) director of Legal, she went ahead and wrote to the Accountant General (of the Federation), filled the forms, and tried to make herself a signatory to the account. She was turned down, which was an embarrassment. No part-time chairman had ever made that kind of move," the source added.

Another source who corroborated this said Mrs Onochie also wrote to Nigeria's presidency requesting an "amendment" to the NDDC Act to allow her to take absolute control of the agency so that she could "reform" it.

"When she didn't get a response, she wrote another mail to the presidency, this time she requested that the commission should be removed from the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, and taken back to the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha," she said.

The source said Mrs Onochie recently bypassed the managing director of NDDC and made direct approvals to the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, to make some payment as if she was the NDDC accounting officer.

"Of course, the EDFA (Executive Director, Finance and Administration) refused to honour those directives," she said.

"Within these few months, she has summoned board meetings up to 12 times through text messages, whereas the board meeting should be held once every quarter, according to a government circular. Some of the meetings could not hold because some of the board members shunned them."

The source said Mrs Onochie and Mr Ogbuku also clashed over the chairperson's attempt to increase the monthly imprest for the board.

"She made an attempt to review the monthly imprest to be paid to the part-time board, including herself, by over 400 per cent. And this would have taken the total amount to over N1billion which is almost equivalent to the salary that is paid to all the staff. The MD said no, that he would only continue with what he inherited," she said.

The board is now divided, with some members backing the chairperson, while others are against her, this newspaper learnt.

Mrs Onochie did not respond to calls and a text message from PREMIUM TIMES.

Our reporter got in touch with an NDDC official who contacted the chairperson, on Friday, on behalf of PREMIUM TIMES, but she said she was "not open to the media at the moment".

The managing director, Mr Ogbuku, did not respond to calls and a text message.

The commission's Director of Corporate Communication, Ibitoye Abosede, told PREMIUM TIMES, Sunday, he was outside the country at the moment and would, therefore, not respond to questions until he is back in Nigeria.

Controversy over railway project proposal

Mrs Onochie's recent attack on the Niger Delta's railway project proposal is said to be a fallout of the crisis between her and the managing director, Mr Ogbuku.

Mr Ogbuku, last month, signed a $15 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Atlantic Global Resources Inc., a US-based company, to build a railway network to connect the nine states in Nigeria's Niger Delta.

The agreement signing was done in Lagos, South-west Nigeria, at a one-day Public Private Partnership (PPP) Submit organised by the NDDC.

The project, when it is implemented, would ease the infrastructure deficit in the oil-rich Niger Delta, Mr Ogbuku said.

The NDDC chairperson, Mrs Onochie, in her reaction to it, said the MOU was "illegal, null and void".

She claimed the agreement was done without the knowledge of the board.

A source in the NDDC, however, told PREMIUM TIMES, last week, that Mrs Onochie was informed as well as invited to the summit but she declined the invitation and dismissed the event as a "jamboree".

Mrs Onochie said the Act establishing the NDDC empowers the chairperson of the board to sign MOUs on behalf of the agency.

But the NDDC management, in its response to her, said the MOU was a preliminary process and not a contract award.

Apparently referring to the chairperson, the commission's Director of Corporate Communication, Mr Abosede said some persons may have misconstrued the MOU to mean Engineering, Procurement, or Construction contract.

"What we signed on 25 April is simply the opening phase that will determine how far we will go, but definitely showcases how interested the international partners are in tapping into the Niger Delta region," Mr Abosede said, adding that the model is to provide alternative sources of funding for key projects and programmes of the commission.

Former MD speaks

A former managing director of NDDC, who did not want his name mentioned in the report because of the "sensitive nature of the issue", said the chairperson cannot be a signatory to the commission's bank account.

He said the clash between Mrs Onochie and Mr Ogbuku has much to do with a "lack of relationship and understanding".

"Because the first chairman of the commission, Onyema Ugochukwu, exercised so much power during his time and people didn't know the power he had didn't come from the NDDC Act, it came from the relationship he had with the MD," he said, implying that the chairperson and the managing director need to understand each person's role and also build a mutual and respectable relationship.

He also spoke about board meetings.

"The chairman calls board meetings, but he has to do so through the MD. The board meeting should be called at least once every quarter, but an emergency meeting can be summoned anytime. If the board meeting is reduced to a monthly thing it becomes a joke. The board works mostly through committees, it is not everything that is taken to board meetings," he said.

Cash-starved

For over three years, the NDDC, an agency notorious for corruption scandals, was run by interim management committees or sole administrators until the current board was inaugurated in January, which gave some hope that the interventionist agency could be back on track - to speed up human and infrastructure development in the troubled Niger Delta region.

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Some people who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES, over the weekend, said the managing director, Mr Ogbuku, started well by consulting with the people in the region to get their concerns and input on the affairs of the commission and also for suspending the payment on controversial desilting projects regarded as conduits for stealing the agency's funds.

The NDDC management said they would further evaluate the desilting jobs the contractor claimed to have done before any further payments on the projects, this newspaper learnt.

Kennedy West, the president of Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta, said it is right for the NDDC management to keep engaging the people, but that the commission was in dire need of funds to execute its projects and programmes.

"How am I going to assess them (their performance) when there's no fund? The 2023 budget is not there, 2021, and 2022 budget is not there. You have about N500 billion that the EFCC has collected on behalf of the commission, this money and the budgeted funds should be released to the NDDC," he said.

Mr West said the "internal wrangling" in the NDDC "doesn't sound healthy", and that his organisation was worried about it.

An influential group in the Niger Delta, the Ijaw Youth Council, meanwhile, has backed the proposal by the NDDC for a railway line in the Niger Delta region.

The group's president, Peter Igbifa, who described the project idea as an "answered prayer", said it would boost commerce in the region.

"The proposal is in tandem with the core mandate of the NDDC. We need to unite to ensure that it is realised. We are in support of the project. We shall not allow anybody to scuttle its implementation.

"We see it as an answer to our prayer for a regional project that will promote development and regional integration," Mr Igbifa said.
opinion

Ambassador Omar Arouna, MBA, is the Chairman of the New York Center for foreign policy affairs (NYCFPA). NYCFPA is conducting in-depth research and analysis of the current political and economic situation in South Sudan and Sudan, with Washington, DC, the effectiveness of targeted sanctions in the region, and the effectiveness of these policies in furthering American foreign policy and business interests. The organization, in October 2022, issued a white paper on South Sudan and has been monitoring the situation in both Sudan and South Sudan since.

The people of Sudan have been struggling for freedom, peace, and justice since the December 2018 revolution that overthrew the former regime. During the transitional period led by a civil coalition, the country experienced political and security instability.

In supporting a civilian government in Sudan, the SAF and RSF have stated that they support the transition to a civilian-led government. However, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have been crucial in supporting the Sudanese Revolution in December 2018 to achieve freedom, peace, and justice for the Sudanese people. They managed to thwart nine coup attempts by the ex-regime supporters, all of whom were put in jail. On December 5th, 2022, the RSF signed a political agreement with civilian parties to return the entire civilian government and exit the military institution from politics to establish a democratic government and achieve the revolution's goals.

According to a source close to RSF, "the recent events in Sudan have highlighted the involvement of the radical Islamists in the country's affairs." According to the same source, "The Rapid Support Forces, which earlier supported the people's revolution and imprisoned leaders of the former regime, have become enemies of the Od's of ex Bashir regime."

The RSF in Sudan has played a critical role in supporting the Sudanese Revolution and ensuring that the goals of the revolution are achieved. To establish a democratic government and end the war in Sudan, it is necessary to complete the political agreement, move forward with military reform, restructure, and reform institutions, adopt projects to rebuild and rehabilitate what was destroyed by the war, provide the necessary services to citizens, and draft a national project with the agreement of all Sudanese people. Moreover, RSF claimed it commits to achieving these goals and ensuring that Sudan can establish a prosperous and democratic future for all its citizens.

Ultimately it is for the people of Sudan and the international community to be vigilant and ensure that involvement from external factors such as the radical Islamists or others does not destabilize the country and the region. Sudan must be allowed to chart its course toward democracy and freedom without interference from any external forces despite the in-fighting. It is up to the people of Sudan and their elected representatives to determine the direction of their government and the role that the SAF and RSF will play in that process.
BALDWIN  Its going to get loud in Baldwin.

The 51st annual Blessing of the Bikes is set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 21, at the Baldwin Municipal Airport, 7038 S. M-37, with the blessing of motorcyclists scheduled at 1 p.m. Also at the event will be vendors, food, official Blessing of the Bikes apparel and live music by the Briar Payne Band.

Beginning May 18, wristbands to enter the airport grounds will be available for $5 and can be purchased at the Lake County Chamber of Commerce, 895 Michigan Ave., or the Duane E. Dewey AmVets Post 1988, 1959 W. 24th St. Wristbands will also be available at the gate Sunday morning.

Proceeds will benefit Lake County veterans who need assistance.

Marlene Gaitan, post commander for the Duane E. Dewey AMVETS Post 1988, said she expects a couple thousand to attend the blessing Sunday.

Im hoping to have 5,000 this year, she said.

Prior to Sunday, two memorial walls  one wall for the Vietnam War and one for the Middle East conflict  will be escorted from the Newaygo AMVETS Post 4250, 45 W. Gene Furgason Lane, Newaygo, to the trout monument in downtown Baldwin at 11 a.m. May 19.

The riders did that a few years ago for the Blessing of the Bikes, Gaitan said. So we thought we would do the same again this year.

Gaitan said the Lake County Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in bringing the memorial walls to Baldwin.

"They wanted to have something to bring more foot traffic, more visitors to downtown Friday and Saturday before the Blessing," she said," so together with the chamber of commerce we organized to have the walls come in."

Vendors will line M-37 from Friday, May 19, through Sunday, drawing more than 20,000 riders and visitors, according to the Lake County Chamber of Commerce website.

Gaitan points out, though, that only Sunday's event at the airport is the Blessing of the Bikes.

"A lot of people think they came to the Blessing of the Bikes, but they dont go to the Blessing of the Bikes unless they are in the airport," she said.

The original Blessing of the Bikes started 51 years ago. In 1972, eight riders and four motorcycles met at St. Anns Catholic Church to receive a blessing for a safe riding season from Rev. Fr. Dave Hawley.

Last year marked the blessing's 50th anniversary. It also marked the last year Para Dice Motorcycle Club would be organizing the event. The Grand Rapids-based club passed the torch to the Baldwin AMVETS, who have been assisting them for the past five years.

"We are going to keep everything the same," Gaitan told the crowd at last year's Blessing. "Why try to fix something that's not broken?"
NEW DELHI (AP)  A double-decker boat carrying more than 30 passengers capsized Sunday night off a beach in southern India, and more than 22 people including children died, officials said.

Police officer Abdul Nazar said the rescue teams were expecting to recover more bodies from inside the boat after pulling it ashore from the muddy waters. He said Indias National Disaster Response Force and the Indian Coast Guard personnel were engaged in rescue work and trying find those who were still missing.
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HADDAM  The Candlewood Farm Arts Foundation next month will be hosting the Solstice Symposium 2023, its fifth music festival promoting the study and celebration of classical guitar.

These include master classes, expert instruction and world-class performances, according to a press release.

It will be held between June 22 and 26, at Candlewood Farm, a charitable organization located at 95 Jacoby Road; and Higganum Congregational Church, 23 Parsonage Road; both of which are in Haddam.

Held in conjunction with June concerts, these performances of chamber music are free and open to the public, the news release said.

Joe Zipoli, who graduated from Wesleyan in the 1980s, started the foundation with a retired Wesleyan professor in 2008 with several goals in mind, including supporting chamber music and young musicians, he said.

Solstice Symposium 2023 offers students expert instruction and performances by internationally acclaimed artists, including Grammy-award-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux, Dr. Isaac Bustos, University of Texas at San Antonio guitar chairperson; Adam Levin and Dr. Andrew Zohn.

In addition, a special feature of this years festival is a presentation on early New England architecture by Connecticut historian James T. Powers.

Registration includes lessons, master classes, presentations and performances, and meals (lunch/dinner), and costs $300. Partial registration is also available.

A participants concert will be held the morning of June 26 at Candlewood Farm. Each performance begins with a show by a Solstice Symposium student, and includes an intermission. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the concerts.

Farm concerts take place at 7 p.m. The lineup is the Li & Zohn Duo, June 22; Duo Sonidos, June 23; and Isaac Bustos, June 24. Jason Vieaux will play the June 25 show at 4 p.m. at the church.

In June 2018, CFAF held its inaugural Solstice Symposium, which now takes place every June at venues throughout Connecticut, according to the website.

The Candlewood foundation mission to support live chamber music and the study and preservation of early New England architecture, especially vernacular structures in the Connecticut River Valley, according to the news release.

It is located at the Capt. John Smith property, a farmstead in Higganum listed on the Connecticut State Register of Historic Places.

For the farm shows, reservations are recommended by emailing arts@candlewoodfarmartsfoundation.org. For other information, visit candlewoodfarmartsfoundation.org or call Joe Zipoli at (347) 415-5900.
Construction works on the proposed international airport in Bugesera district have gained momentum and there is optimism that it could be completed by 2026.

In September, 2022, during the Aviation Africa Summit, Rwanda showcased the airport's structural model, a facility expected to be only 40 kilometers away from Kigali.

ALSO READ: Bugesera Airport to be among the greenest airports in Africa

With an estimated $2 billion worth of investment, the airport's developers say that the facility could potentially help Africa's aviation industry take off.

Here are 5 things you should know:

1. More than 8 million passengers a year

The new facility, according to developers, will boast a 130,000-square-meter main terminal building capable of accommodating 8 million passengers a year.

The figure is expected to rise to over 14 million passengers in the following decades.

"I'm amazed, it's like a dream come true to see the impact and magnitude of this project to the population," Jules Ndenga, CEO of Aviation Travel and Logistics (ATL) Holding told CNN.

ATL is overseeing the construction works.

"We are really impassioned to see the efforts completed and starting operations."

The facility will also see a dedicated cargo terminal, capable of accommodating 150,000 tons of cargo a year.

ALSO READ: Ten things we know about the Rwanda-Qatar Airways deal

2. Beyond Rwanda's borders

The arrival of the new airport will help address the prevailing challenge of a fragmented network of routes that means passengers often have to travel via Europe or the Middle East when flying between African countries.

For instance, a lack of connections across the continent is grounding Africa's untapped potential in the aviation business.

Despite boasting 16.75 percent of the world's population with 1.4 billion people, the continent has less than 4 percent of the global air market, according to a 2018 report by the Single African Air Transport Market - an initiative set up by the African Union.

3. Focus on connectivity

The problem of connectivity presents the "biggest challenge" to the African aviation industry, according to RwandAir Chief Executive Yvonne Manzi Makolo.

"The continent is huge, it's vast, but it's difficult and unpredictable traveling within it ... and it's extremely expensive," Makolo told CNN, in a separate interview.

"What's making it more challenging is the conditions of operating within the African continent. The cost of operations is so much more, whether it's airport fees, whether it's ground handling, parking, overflight (flying from one country's airspace to another's) - everything is much more expensive.

Sometimes up to 50 percent more than in the Middle East and Europe, which makes the ticket prices even more expensive and makes (some) routes unviable."

But solutions are touching down, starting with the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

First proposed in 2018, if implemented the policy would create a single market for African aviation, facilitating the free movement of people, goods, and services. The continent currently operates under bilateral air service agreements, a highly restrictive policy that makes it difficult to open new routes.

Just recently, Rwanda was chosen among 17 countries that are set to participate in an implementation pilot project of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

So far, just 35 of the 55 African states have signed up for SAATM, with more expected to follow.

4. Qatar-Rwanda partnership key

Qatar Airways will have a 60 percent ownership of the new airport as well as acquire 49 percent of shares in the national carrier, Rwandair, offering access to over 65 locations around the world.

The partnership, Ndenga said, comes at a time when Rwanda is positioning itself as Africa's centerpiece for air travel.

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"The main objective of this effort is basically to make sure that Rwanda becomes an African hub where everyone will be transiting either for tourism, but also for business and different industries," Ndenga added.

"The impact will be in terms of providing a platform for all the economic life of the country to develop sustainability. We see that as not only an impact on the economy but in the neighborhood ... we know that this area will become a satellite city of the city center."

5. Kigali International Airport to host a training school

The new proposed international airport in Bugesera is a significant upgrade on the Kigali International Airport (KIA), which is expected to remain operational for special arrivals, some chartered flights, and a pilot training school, reported CNN.

Pre-pandemic, the airport was shuttling close to 1 million passengers annually.

In April this year, KIA was accredited to Level 1 of the Airport Customer Experience Accreditation programme, by the Airports Council International.
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MIDDLETOWN  Middletown High School DECA members earned the organizations highest honors at the annual International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Fla., April 21 to 26.

This was the largest international conference in DECAs history with 22,000 attendees from 12 nations coming together to compete, network, and grow as emerging leaders, according to a press release.

As a chapter, Middletown DECA earned an award as Connecticuts largest chapter, for the 12th consecutive year, with 201 members.

The following students were honored:



Ryan Battista, Principles of Business Administration, seventh place worldwide, overall; International Finalist Medal, International Top 10 Medal, International Excellence Award, Doris Biney Entrepreneurship International Best Role Play Medal and International Excellence Award

Jenna Carfora, Restaurant Marketing, International Excellence Award

Nissi Asante, Principles of Hospitality and Tourism International Excellence Award

Justin Rogers and Michael Czyz, Buying and Merchandising Management, International Excellence Award, top 13 percent worldwide

Michael Gennaro and Gianluca Latina, Financial Services International Excellence Award, top 15 percent Worldwide

Sarah Gray, Principles of Marketing International Excellence Award, top 17 percent worldwide

Nana Obeng and Lillian Collins-Carrion, Travel and Tourism Marketing International Excellence Award

Amy Wiknik and Madeline Wactowski, Business Law and Ethics Excellence Award

Daniella Ikonn, Automotive Services Marketing International participant

Alex Cyr, Principles of Hospitality and Tourism International participant

Anisha Douglas, Human Resources Management International participant

Yana Mikulska, Apparel and Accessories Marketing International participant

Eleisha Douglas, Andrew Latina, Evan Langdon, Thrive Learning Academies International participants

During the school year, approximately 110,000 of DECAs high school student members take part in the

organizations competitive events program, allowing them to compete for local, regional and state titles, the statement said.

The competitions are designed to simulate real-life business scenarios and test students academic

understanding and skills development. The top state winners put their talents to the test during the

programs final round of competition in Orlando.

The DECA International Career Development Conference was the pinnacle of competition, the news release said. Over $300,000 in scholarships and awards were presented to students and teachers for their achievements.

In addition to career-based competition, DECA members engaged in leadership academies and networking opportunities with over 70 internationally-recognized businesses and universities.

Middletown DECA, one of the city's oldest, most equitable, and largest co-curricular student

organizations, was recognized for the 12th consecutive time as a top international chapter at the Chapter

Awards session.

Of the 17 students that partook in competitive events, 13 reached the level of excellence due to their high scores on the competency exams and role play case-study presentations, the school said.

At the state competition a month prior, Middletown earned 44 winners.

While Middletown DECA has been serving the community for 45 years, since 2000, it has earned 118 international medals, 219 International Excellence awards, 744 state-level awards, and was ranked No. 1 by the state of Connecticut Department of Education the last four years of published rankings.
Christine Dempsey / Hearst Connecticut Media

TOLLAND  Two people were killed in a head-on crash Sunday on Route 195 in Tolland, authorities said Sunday night.

State Police said the crash occurred Sunday just before 1:30 p.m. in the area of Goose Lane. Emergency medical services and the local fire department were dispatched, they said.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Iran hanged two men Monday convicted of blasphemy, authorities said, carrying out rare death sentences for the crime as executions surge across the Islamic Republic following months of unrest.

Iran remains one of the world's top executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights. But carrying out executions for blasphemy remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.

The two men executed, Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare, died at Arak Prison in central Iran. They had been arrested in May 2020, accused of being involved in a channel on the Telegram message app called Critique of Superstition and Religion, according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Both men faced months of solitary confinement and could not contact their families, the commission said.

It is of extreme concern to us. I dont believe this is just a one-off event, Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, a member of the Congressionally mandated commission, told The Associated Press. I think that there is a sense that Iran is increasingly desperate. And when we know authoritarian theocracies are desperate, they often turn to very, very extreme acts.

The Mizan news agency of Iran's judiciary confirmed the executions, describing the two men as having insulted Islam's Prophet Muhammad and promoted atheism. Mizan also accused them of burning a Quran, Islam's holy book, though it wasn't clear whether the men allegedly did that or such imagery was shared in the Telegram channel.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads Iran Human Rights, decried the executions as exposing the medieval nature of Iran's theocracy.

The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable, he said in a statement. The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world.

It wasn't immediately clear when Iran carried out its last execution for blasphemy. Other countries in the Middle East, like Saudi Arabia, also allow for death sentences to be imposed for blasphemy.

The streak of executions, including members of ethnic minority groups in Iran, comes as monthslong protests over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the country's morality police have cooled. Already, at least four people charged over alleged crimes from the demonstrations have been put to death. The protests, which reportedly saw over 500 people killed and 19,000 others arrested, marked one of the biggest challenges to Irans theocracy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Kleinbaum called on the White House to condemn the execution and further sanction Iran, as well as push for Russia and China to allow the United Nations Security Council to refer Tehran to the International Criminal Court.

This level of cruelty indicates that Irans government is desperate to maintain power through force, and we condemn it, she said.

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters in Washington that the U.S. condemned the executions. These latest executions are a grave reminder of the Iranian regimes penchant for abusing and violating the human rights of the Iranian people, he said.

In 2022, Iran executed at least 582 people, up from 333 people in 2021, according to Iran Human Rights. Amnesty International's most-recent report on executions put Iran as the world's second-largest executioner, behind only China, where thousands are believed to be put to death a year.

While some executions are publicized, others are not in Iran.

Many have been for drug-related offenses, but there also have been executions of a British-Iranian accused of spying and another of a Swedish-Iranian convicted of masterminding a 2018 attack on a military parade that killed at least 25.

A German-Iranian who lives in California, Jamshid Sharmahd, also faces a looming execution as tensions remain high between Tehran and the West over its accelerating nuclear program. The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said he spoke Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian about Sharmahd and asked Iran not to execute him.

Human Rights Activists in Iran, another group monitoring the Islamic Republic, warned last week about the alarming surge in executions.

Iranian authorities have an absolute obligation to uphold international human rights standards and instead, there is ongoing impunity for grave violations of the right to life  and more, said Skylar Thompson, the head of global advocacy and accountability at the group.

___

Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.

___

Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.
CAIRO (AP)  Clashes that erupted last month between armed fighters in a city in Sudans restive Darfur region killed at least 100 people, according to Sudans Doctors Syndicate.

Hospitals were still out of service in the Darfur city of Genena and an accurate count of the wounded was still hard to make, the doctors union added in a statement posted on its official Facebook page late Sunday.

The fighting in Genena, which broke out a few days after Sudans two rival generals took up arms against each other in the capital of Khartoum, points to the possibility that the conflict could engulf other parts of the East African country.

The syndicate's death toll comes as talks continue between the warring parties in the Saudi Arabian city of Jeddah. A statement issued by the Saudi foreign ministry on Monday said the negotiations between delegations from the country's military, on one side, and on the other the powerful paramilitary, the Rapid Support Forces, are expected to go on for a few more days.

The talks, which are focused on creating humanitarian corridors to allow aid and civilians to move, are part of a broader diplomatic initiative proposed by Saudi Arabia and the U.S. to stop the fighting.

The doctors' union did not specify the two parties to the clashes in Genena, a city of around half a million people located near the border with Chad that has been a flashpoint since the early days of the fighting.

Late last month, residents described how armed fighters, many wearing the uniform of the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, rampaged through the city, looting shops and homes and battling with rival forces. They said the fighting was dragging in tribal militias, tapping into longtime hatreds between the regions two main communities  one that identifies as Arab, the other as East or Central African.

In the early 2000s, African tribes in Darfur that had long complained of discrimination rebelled against the Khartoum government, which responded with a military campaign that the International Criminal Court later said amounted to genocide. State-backed Arab militias known as the Janjaweed were accused of widespread killings, rapes and other atrocities. The Janjaweed later evolved into the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group, known as the RSF.

At least 481 civilians were killed in Khartoum clashes that erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the RSF, led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, according to the same doctors statement. The number of the wounded among civilians has jumped to more than 2,560.

On Friday, the governor of West Darfur, where Genena is located, accused the RSF of damaging government offices, setting fire to more than 10 shelters housing displaced communities, and looting homes and stores.

Today, West Darfur is a doomed province. What is left of the Darfur population lives under very harsh conditions," Gen. Khamis Abdullah Abkar said in a video posted on a local news site Friday.

The international community should not remain silent about the challenge in this province. It should act immediately; people need shelter, food and medicine, he said.

The paramilitary has repeatedly denied claims that its forces have terrorized civilians or used brutal tactics.

On Monday, Sudans leading pro-democracy alliance, which has spearheaded protests against the country's military leaders since 2019, expressed its support for the Jeddah talks and called for an immediate cessation of fighting.

In a statement released Monday, the Forces for the Declaration of Freedom and Change stressed the need for a comprehensive political solution that would achieve peace, justice, a transition to civilian democratic rule and a military and security reform.
Refugees who fled Afghanistan during the chaotic final days of America's longest war are getting a temporary reprieve from an immigration deadline set to hit later this year. The announcement comes as the congressional investigation into the withdrawal takes a contentious turn over producing documents.

Late last week, the Biden administration confirmed it will allow Afghans evacuated during the withdrawal to apply to extend their temporary immigration status when it expires this summer as negotiations in Congress over providing evacuees permanent residency remain at an impasse.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the House chairman investigating the withdrawal threatened to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt of Congress if the State Department continues to withhold a document that reportedly warned of Kabul's imminent collapse weeks before it happened.

Read Next: Murdered or Missing: The Army Stands Up a Cold Case Unit to Tackle Unsolved Crimes

Some 78,000 Afghans were brought to the United States on U.S. military evacuation flights in August 2021, most of whom were admitted under a temporary status known as humanitarian parole. Most evacuees were granted two years of parole, meaning their protection to legally work and live in the United States is on track to expire this coming August.

Parole does not provide a pathway to apply for legal permanent resident status, commonly known as a green card. While parolees can apply for asylum, that could leave Afghans in limbo for years as U.S. immigration courts are already struggling to process more than 1.5 million pending cases.

Veterans and other advocates have been pushing Congress to pass a bill that would create a streamlined process for the Afghan evacuees to get green cards. But the bill did not get a vote last year amid GOP concerns about security vetting of evacuees, and prospects for advancing the bill this year are dim with Republicans in control of the House.

In the face of the continued congressional inaction, the Department of Homeland Security announced Friday that, starting in June, Afghans will be able to apply to extend their parole.

Requests for re-parole will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and more details about the application process will be released "soon," the department said. The agency will also be hosting "Afghan Support Centers" across the country with information about immigration and social services available to Afghans, starting with Phoenix, Arizona, on May 17.

"The Biden-Harris administration is committed to the continued safety, security, and well-being of the thousands of Afghan nationals who arrived in the United States through [Operation Allies Welcome] and continue to through Enduring Welcome," the Department of Homeland Security said Friday. "The administration has repeatedly put forward an adjustment act and publicly called on Congress to support a bipartisan adjustment act that would provide a durable, more streamlined immigration pathway for those currently in parole."

As Afghan evacuees continue to await congressional action on more permanent protections, House Republicans and the Biden administration are butting heads over Republicans' investigation into the withdrawal.

The GOP-led House Foreign Affairs Committee has been probing the withdrawal, including hearing emotional testimony from troops and veterans who were on the ground during the evacuation that included a suicide bombing that killed 13 U.S. service members.

In March, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, issued a subpoena demanding the State Department hand over what's known as a "dissent cable" that diplomats in Afghanistan sent to department leadership reportedly warning that Kabul would soon fall to the Taliban.

The State Department maintains that providing the cable to Congress could have a chilling effect on future use of the confidential channel that allows rank-and-file personnel to voice policy concerns. Instead, the department has provided summaries and a briefing to the committee about the contents of the cable and the department's response to it.

McCaul maintains the summaries and briefing do not satisfy his subpoena, insisting the committee needs to see the cable itself to perform its oversight duties.

In a letter dated Friday and publicly released Monday, McCaul gave Blinken until 6 p.m. Thursday to comply with the subpoena.

"Should you fail to comply, the committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding," McCaul wrote. "It is inherently problematic for the department, which is the subject of the committee's investigation, to be permitted to withhold key material evidence and substitute its own abbreviated characterizations of that evidence for the original documents."

Holding an official in contempt of Congress requires a committee vote, followed by a full House vote. It would then be up to the Justice Department to decide whether to actually bring charges and pursue a prosecution.

In a statement, the State Department called McCaul's threat "unnecessary and unproductive," highlighting the briefing and summaries the department has already provided to the committee.

"Nevertheless," the department added, "we will continue to respond to appropriate oversight inquiries and provide Congress the information it needs to do its job while protecting the ability of State Department employees to do theirs."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: 'We Were Ignored': Veterans and Troops Detail Horrors of Afghanistan Evacuation as House Investigation Begins
An Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed Saturday morning in a field near Osan Air Base in South Korea. The incident is under investigation.

"An F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 8th Fighter Wing crashed in an agricultural area," officials said in a release. "At the time of the accident, the pilot was participating in a routine daytime training sortie."

The pilot safely ejected and was transported to the nearest medical facility, where they were listed in stable condition. The pilot was not identified in the press release.

Read Next: Biden Said to Pick Air Force General as Joint Chiefs Chair

"While we don't have any additional information yet, we are relieved the pilot safely ejected and there were no other injuries," Col. Henry R. Jeffress III, the 8th Fighter Wing commander, said in the news release. "The U.S. Air Force will stand up an independent Safety Investigation Board to review all data and evidence related to today's incident and use that information to determine its cause and prescribe any corrective safety measures to ensure the safety of the F-16 fleet."

Yonhap News Agency, a major media outlet in South Korea, reported that the F-16 crashed in Pyeongtaek, 60 kilometers south of Seoul. Citing local police and fire departments, Yonhap said the jet "crashed into a field and caught fire, resulting in the aircraft being mostly destroyed."

The crash comes as the Pentagon has moved more F-16s to the Pacific this year.

In January, the Air Force temporarily moved fighter jets from Germany to Okinawa, Japan, after the Pentagon announced it was pulling older F-15 Eagles from Kadena Air Base in an attempt to bring more modern aircraft to the Pacific.

F-16s from the 52nd Fighter Wing at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, arrived at Kadena earlier this year, even as the installation continued to slowly return its fleet of F-15C/D fighters to the United States.

Since the Air Force began flying the F-16 in the 1970s, there have been 383 Class-A mishaps -- the term used by the service to describe its most deadly and costliest crashes -- and a total of 88 pilot deaths, according to data from the Air Force Safety Center.

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

Related: Air Force Moves F-16s from Europe to Japan as Ukraine War Lingers and Pacific Tensions Simmer
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER -- Sen. Mark Kelly retired from NASA before his twin brother Scott, but it took him three years longer to be inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame.

"Scott, you beat me to this one, but as special as it is, or was, to be an astronaut, nothing compares to doing it with your clone," Mark said Saturday during a ceremony for him and fellow astronaut, retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Roy Bridges, under Space Shuttle Atlantis at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Bridges, a member of the second class of space shuttle astronauts chosen in 1980, flew on one space shuttle mission, STS 51-F, in 1985 aboard Space Shuttle Challenger, but also later served as the director at both NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Langley Research Center.

Kelly, also a retired captain in the Navy, flew on four space shuttle missions, twice as pilot and twice as commander. His first flight was on Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-108 in 2001, the first shuttle mission after 9/11. He then flew again as pilot on STS-121 in 2006 on board Space Shuttle Discovery, the first mission after the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster three years earlier. He flew on Discovery again as commander on STS-124 in 2008 and then commanded the last flight of Endeavour on STS-134 in 2011.

The two men became the 106th and 107th inductees to the hall of fame that was created in 1990 by the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation and is represented at the visitor complex with its own building honoring the inductees, several of whom were at Saturday's ceremony.

They included Mark's twin brother and several others of their astronaut class of 1996, known as the Sardines.

"The list of human beings who have made a greater contribution to space exploration than my brother Scott is very, very short and it means very much to me to be joining these ranks with you," he said.

Kelly also paid homage to his parents, both police officers.

"I'm grateful to be born in a country where the sons of two police officers who watched the Apollo missions from their living room floor would go on to reach the heights of the world's greatest space program," he said. "They had no idea that they were raising two astronauts, but they raised us to value public service."

Also on hand was current NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, one of five U.S. senators that also can call themselves astronauts.

Nelson, who flew to space when he was in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986, was the friendly target of Kelly after earlier references were made about how Kelly could as a member of the Senate help out with NASA's budget appropriations request.

"Maybe later Sen. Nelson and I could have another discussion about members of Congress going into space. Bill? Bill, I gotta say, I'm all for this. Fantastic idea," Kelly said.

Nelson spoke ahead of the introductions of Kelly and Bridges.

"105 adventurers, explorers and pioneers have been bestowed with this honor, and today we welcome two more," Nelson said. "Every astronaut has their own story. What links Roy and Mark is that they not only pushed the limits of humanity's reach, but both showed their humanity continuing to serve at NASA and our nation beyond their days as astronauts -- as center director and as a U.S. senator. Both have that daring spirit but also the spirit of a servant leader's heart."

Nelson was the first of many on the day also to make solemn reference to Mark's wife who was in attendance, former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords, who just months before Kelly's final flight was a victim in a mass shooting.

"She summoned the strength to watch her husband ascend upward for the final time," Nelson said. "Her courage and strength continue to be an inspiration for all of us. And Mark showed us what it is to be a husband."

Kelly, who retired from NASA and the Navy after that flight to help take care of his wife, thanked her during his speech.

"To my wife Gabby, thanks for the years of putting up with the commuter marriage, sometimes to space, so that we could both serve our country the best ways we knew how at the time," he said. "You've faced such a difficult road back to recovery. I mean I agonized. I agonized over the decision of whether to move forward and fly my last space shuttle flight, STS-134, but then as always you were the best friend and partner that I could ever ask for."

Kelly was also somber when remembering those lost during Columbia's disaster, which included three of his astronaut classmates.

"There probably isn't a day at NASA I remember more vividly than Feb. 1, 2003, when Columbia disintegrated on reentry," he said, noting that he and others flew to the crash sites in Texas and Louisiana "retrieving the remains of our STS-107 colleagues. It was personal in ways most can't imagine. It was hard. ... These explorers paid the ultimate sacrifice and I think of them so very often."

He said he was proud to be among those inducted into the hall, but put that achievement into perspective.

"The reality is that anyone who crams themselves into a pressure suit, puts on a helmet, and some boots from Walmart, and then climbs onto the top of a rocket for the country is worthy of the same recognition," he said. "It is a difficult and dangerous job, and it's those risks that create the opportunity to do the extraordinary things that each and every one of us signed up for."

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The suspected gunman who killed eight people and injured at least seven others in an Allen, Texas, mall shooting Saturday was separated from the Army after three months, according to a service spokesperson. He never completed initial entry training.

The Texas Department of Safety, which is conducting the investigation into the shooting, identified 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia as the gunman who opened fire at the outlet mall just north of Dallas.

Garcia joined the military in June 2008 and was separated that same fall under a chapter that includes "designated physical or mental conditions," according to a service spokesperson speaking on background.

Read Next: Air Force Pilot Ejects as F-16 Crashes in South Korea

"He was not awarded a military occupational specialty. He had no deployments or awards," an Army public affairs spokesperson told Military.com via email Monday. "We do not provide characterization of discharge for any soldier."

Rolling Stone reported Sunday that the FBI reviewed Garcia's social media accounts, which revealed "hundreds of postings and images to include writings with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist rhetoric, including neo-Nazi materials and material espousing the supremacy of the white race," citing an FBI bulletin.

Garcia was also reportedly wearing a patch with the letters "RWDS," or "right wing death squad," which is popular among extremists encouraging violence. The FBI bulletin said that Garcia was discharged specifically for "mental health concerns," Rolling Stone reported.

Military.com has not independently reviewed the bulletin. CNN and The Associated Press also reported that law enforcement agencies are probing Garcia's alleged extremist history.

A spokesperson for the Dallas FBI Field Office told Military.com that officials "aren't commenting yet on any of the information being reported" after Military.com specifically asked about the details published by Rolling Stone.

"That information is part of a confidential law enforcement report that was leaked to the media," said Melinda Urbina, a public affairs officer. "Our policy is not to comment on our intelligence products."

Garcia was killed at the scene by a nearby Allen police officer who responded to the call.

It was the second deadliest mass shooting this year according to CNN and occurred nearly a year after one of the state's deadliest mass shootings at a Uvalde, Texas, elementary school.

-- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @df_lawrence.

Related: Texas Judge Denies New Trial for Army Sergeant Convicted of Killing Air Force Veteran During 2020 Protest
Virgin Galactic is headed back to space this month with a six-person crew, marking its first flight to suborbit since company founder Sir Richard Branson flew from Spaceport America in southern New Mexico in July 2021.

It's the last flight planned by Virgin Galactic before launching its long-awaited commercial service, starting in late June, when a crew from the Italian Air Force will fly to space on the six-passenger VSS Unity spaceship to conduct research and training.

This month's final test flight will include four Virgin Galactic team members seated in the passenger cabin, among them Native New Mexican Jamila Gilbert, a 34-year-old New Mexico State University graduate who grew up in Alamogordo and Las Cruces and joined Virgin Galactic in 2019, said Mike Moses, president of spaceline missions and safety.

"Returning to space is what we have all worked toward," Moses said in a press release Monday morning announcing the flight. "Our mission specialists were selected for their diverse expertise, and they couldn't be better suited to validate the astronaut training program and overall experience. After this flight we will begin flying our customers to space."

The upcoming test will be the first "powered" flight into suborbit since Branson flew in 2021. Following Branson's flight, the company entered an 18-month hiatus for maintenance upgrades and enhancements to the Unity spaceship and the VMS Eve mothership to improve vehicle durability and reliability before initiating tourist flights for paying passengers. Those modifications included construction of a reinforced pylon on the underbelly of the mothership where the Unity is attached at takeoff from the Spaceport America runway.

Under Virgin Galactic's flight system, VMS Eve carries the spaceship to about 50,000 feet, at which point Unity breaks away from the mothership and fires up its rocket motors to shoot into suborbit, allowing passengers in the ship's six-seat cabin to float for a few minutes in microgravity and view the Earth's curvature before returning to the spaceport.

The company conducted a glide test in late April, whereby the Unity breaks away from Eve and glides back down to ground without igniting its motors. That provided critical performance metrics to validate ship enhancements, paving the way for this month's powered flight to space, Moses said following last month's glide flight.

The upcoming powered test aims to evaluate the overall passenger space flight experience from end-to-end and perform a "final assessment" of the full spaceflight system before commercial service begins, said company spokesman Jeff Michael.

Apart from Unity's pilot and co-pilot, four mission specialists were selected for their "diverse" expertise, each bringing a different skill set to validate the company's planned passenger training program and the flight experience itself, Michael said.

Jamila Gilbert, for example, is not an engineer like the other three mission specialists. She's a linguistics, anthropology and studio arts graduate who previously conducted tourist walking tours for "Visit Las Cruces," giving her a unique perspective similar to what customers will experience on future space flights.

"They're 'diverse' in regard to their individual points of view and disciplines, which allows them to see and experience things differently," Michael told the Journal. "Jamila Gilbert most clearly represents our customers, most of whom are not engineers. She's decidedly from the creative side."

Assuming all goes well, this month's flight will mark the fifth time Unity has flown to space, although the company did conduct many other flight tests with Unity on at least 20 occasions.

On its prior suborbital flights, the company did fly research payloads for customers who paid for experiments in microgravity. But when the Italian Air Force boards Unity in late June, it will be the first time paying passengers will be seated in the cabin for a trip to space.

Tourist flights for customers, who pay $450,000 for a seat on Unity, are expected to begin this summer, Michael said.

"The initial target is to fly once per month after our first commercial flight in late June," Michael said. "Following each flight, there's a two-week period to analyze data, and then two more weeks to prepare the ship to fly again. You can set the flight calendar around that."

More than 800 passengers with reservations are now on the Virgin Galactic flight list, including many who have waited more than a decade to board the spaceship.

(c) 2023 the Albuquerque Journal (Albuquerque, N.M.)

Visit the Albuquerque Journal (Albuquerque, N.M.) at www.abqjournal.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.

As the security situation deteriorates in Sudan, and thousands of US citizens remain in the war-torn country, the Navy is undertaking a mission it has done many, many times over the years: evacuations of diplomats and other Americans needing to depart a combat zone.

This is more than a humanitarian mission. The Sudan operation is providing the Navy with a chance to put some seemingly bizarre, but in fact hugely valuable, combat-support ships through their paces in a real-life situation.

Evacuations of civilians and troops are dangerous and unpredictable. Sometimes, as with the fall of Kabul in Afghanistan in 2021, they can go terribly wrong. At other times  think Vietnam in 1975  they can be chaotic but overall fairly successful. Often when the nation in question has a coast, as Sudan does on the Red Sea, the Navy conducts the bulk of the operations.

Normally, such missions would be conducted from massive amphibious warships such as the big deck helicopter carriers of the Wasp and America classes. These ships ferry Marines around the world, conduct amphibious attacks and carry vertical-lift jump-jets for combat strikes ashore. But the operation in Sudan, which is (so far) relatively small, looks quite different.

While there is always a risk to evacuees, in Sudan it is unlikely that either side in the civil war would deliberately target civilians. So we are seeing the use of two warships that have little offensive combat capability but excellent, adaptable logistical-support abilities: the Brunswick and the Lewis B. Puller.

I know both of these ship classes well, having played a role in their adoption over a decade ago. The Lewis B. Puller is an expeditionary mobile base with a crew of only about 150 (as opposed to 5,000 on a carrier), but a huge and flexible capacity to operate helicopters, drop off special forces, provide medical and logistical support ashore, and host hundreds of civilian evacuees.

The Navy began to experiment with this type of at-sea base after the 9/11 attacks. I was heading up the tactical think tank Deep Blue in the aftermath of the plane striking the Pentagon. We were preparing for operations in the worlds littoral regions (shallow areas near shores) for what would become known as the Global War on Terrorism.

The Navy did not want to devote its nuclear aircraft carriers or even big-deck amphibious ships to such missions, so we looked for alternatives that were far less costly, both in terms of manpower and sticker price. These mobile bases, with hulls based on those of oilers, are large and capable  more than 750 feet long and displacing 80,000 tons. But they are a bargain at $650 million, as compared to nearly $15 billion for a new nuclear carrier.

The other main ship in the Sudan operation, the Brunswick, is far smaller but nearly three times speedier. Known as an expeditionary fast transport, the Navy commissioned six of these craft, which ride on a catamaran hull and can move at over 40 knots. At only 300 feet in length, they can carry more than 600 tons of cargo and, for brief periods, hundreds of passengers. Operated by a tiny crew of around 40, they even have a small but capable helicopter deck.

As commander of US Southern Command in the 2000s, I experimented with an early variant of this class for Caribbean counternarcotics operations, where we very successfully embarked alongside Coast Guard law-enforcement detachments.

Because neither of these ships is armed beyond light machine guns, a Navy destroyer is typically deployed with them to bring defensive firepower. In Sudan, the Truxton, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, accompanied the Puller and Brunswick. Drones are also being used to provide overwatch ashore in case of any threat to the civilian evacuation operations.

These two new ship classes have a broad range of uses, both in noncombatant roles like evacuations but also in support of combat. To name a few potential missions: operations in the island chains of the western Pacific; oil and gas protection off the coast of Norway; counterterrorism at the Horn of Africa or islands in the Philippines; natural-disaster relief; medical diplomacy; and further evacuations of noncombatants.

The nature of security is far broader than simply lobbing Tomahawk missiles, dropping precision-guided bombs or landing Marines. The Brunswick and Puller are showing a wide spectrum of abilities for conducting operations fit for the modern world.

____

ABOUT THE WRITER

James Stavridis is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. A retired U.S. Navy admiral, former supreme allied commander of NATO, and dean emeritus of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, he is vice chairman of global affairs at the Carlyle Group. He is on the boards of American Water Works, Fortinet, PreVeil, NFP, Ankura Consulting Group, Titan Holdings, Michael Baker and Neuberger Berman, and has advised Shield Capital, a firm that invests in the cybersecurity sector.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

___

2023 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com/opinion. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Women climate justice activists have called out false solutions imposed on Africans by international institutions and multinationals on the pretext of helping communities adapt to extreme weather patterns, Daily Nation reports.

ALSO READ: Climate change could widen gender gaps - report

The activists gathered at a Nairobi hotel last week for a two-day conference to discuss the feminist approach to climate financing.

In the forum organised by Akina Mama wa Afrika, the activists from Kenya, Zambia, Tunisia, Nigeria, Senegal and Uganda raised their reservations about supposed adaptation and mitigation measures forced on Africans, calling them "false solutions".

Dr Melania Chiponda, a climate justice and energy expert from Zimbabwe, said everywhere in Africa, international institutions and multinationals are imposing false solutions on men and women.

"Imagine you're a woman and you have been using indigenous seeds to produce food to feed your children and you know the seeds can withstand the drought to some extent. You saved these seeds for reuse," she said on Thursday during an interview with Nation.Africa at the hotel.

"And here comes a big corporation that produces seeds and they tell you, you need different seeds that can withstand drought. But you don't know whether these are the right seeds because you don't have a lot of information; the only information you have is that they can withstand the drought because that's what you have been told.

"And so, you adopt these seeds, which have been genetically modified or produced in a lab... And once you harvest, you cannot save the seeds for reuse."

She concluded: "This changes your life and your way of producing food...this false solution takes away your power to control your seed systems and how you produce food."

AMwA executive director Eunice Musiime said while Africans feel the real impact of the climate crisis, they deserve real solutions that work for them.

"If financing for climate mitigation and adaptation is coming in the form of loans, it means you're compounding the debt crisis. The African continent has contributed the least to the climate crisis, so there is a need for a differentiated responsibility," she said.
Longtime Cubs reliever Pedro Strop is eyeing a comeback attempt, as the right-hander himself made clear when tweeting out video of himself throwing a bullpen session this weekend. I want to come back, Strop wrote in yesterdays tweet. Its the second time in the past couple weeks that hes alluded to a comeback by tweeting out video of a pen session, though yesterdays was more direct than the first.

Strop, wholl turn 38 in June, hasnt pitched in the Majors since 2021 and has thrown just 4 1/3 big league innings since the conclusion of the 2019 season. Hes pitched for los Leones del Escogido in the Dominican Winter League in each of the past two offseasons, combining for 23 2/3 innings of 3.80 ERA ball with a 25.2% strikeout rate and 11.6% walk rate. Strop also tossed 14 innings in the 2021 Mexican League, allowing five runs (3.21 ERA) on 14 hits and five walks with 16 punchouts.

Strops last season with a significant amount of time spent in the Majors was back in 2019, when he limped to a 4.97 ERA in 41 2/3 frames. His 27.5% strikeout rate that year remained plenty strong, but Strops 11.2% walk rate was one of the highest of his career and his velocity dipped to what was then a career-low 93.6 mph. In two subsequent seasons, he tossed 4 1/3 frames between the Reds and Cubs but walked eight of his 25 opponents in that time while sitting at 91.8 mph with his heater.

Prior to those struggles, Strop was a durable and excellent reliever over a six-year stretch with the Cubs. Acquired alongside Jake Arrieta in an absolute heist of a trade with the Orioles, Strops first six seasons in Chicago resulted in a 2.63 ERA over 331 1/3 innings. He pitched to a sub-3.00 ERA every season, fanned 28.2% of his total opponents and walked 9.5% of them. He picked up 19 saves and another 114 holds during regular-season play along the way, and he also excelled in the postseason. Through 17 total innings, he allowed just four runs (2.12 ERA) on eight hits and six walks with 12 strikeouts  including two scoreless frames during the Cubs 2016 World Series run.

Time will tell whether Strop actually gets another opportunity with an affiliated club and whether he can take that hypothetical opportunity a step further and ultimately return to a big league mound. He certainly wouldnt be the first pitcher to engineer a successful big league return in his late 30s, though. Daniel Bard returned from a seven-year MLB absence at age 35 back in 2020, and Rich Hill was also 35 by the time he kicked off a late-career renaissance that hes still continuing into his age-43 season.
1:35pm: The Pirates announced that theyve selected Owings contract and optioned Mathias to Triple-A.

10:36am: The Pirates are set to select the contract of veteran utilityman Chris Owings, reports Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Hes not on the 40-man roster, although the Pirates have an open spot after outrighting Drew Maggi over the weekend. Theyll still need to clear a spot on the 26-man roster.

Owings, 31, is out to a strong start with the Pirates Triple-A affiliate in Indianapolis, batting .273/.360/.523 (121 wRC+) with a pair of homers, five doubles and a 10% walk rate (against a 26% strikeout rate) in his first 50 trips to the plate. The Pirates will be the seventh Major League team for which hes played, and this will be the 11th season in which hes logged at least some time on a big league roster. Hes played every position other than catcher and first base over the first decade of his big league career.

Owings hasnt topped 68 plate appearances in a big league season since 2019 and hasnt appeared in 100 games since the 2018 campaign. His versatility and strong Triple-A production  career .306/.347/.482 in eight seasons  regularly make him a popular depth piece on minor league contracts like the one he signed with the Pirates. Substantial playing time in the Majors has been tough to come by in recent years, however, in part due to injury but also due to substandard performance at the plate.

Though Owings was generally productive with the Rockies in 2020-21, thumb and hamstring injuries limited him to just 94 plate appearances in that time. His .298/.372/.536 batting line with Colorado was obviously quite strong, but its a small sample that looks like an outlier when compared to Owings broader track record. In nearly 2500 career trips to the plate, Owings is a .239/.287/.366 hitter  including just a .107/.254/.143 output in 68 plate appearances with the Orioles in 2022.

Presumably, Owings will take on a bench role with the Pirates, who already have a pair of righty-swinging infield/outfield pieces on the bench in Miguel Andujar and Mark Mathias. Andujar is out of minor league options, so he cant be sent down without first clearing waivers  and even then, hed have the right to reject the assignment in lieu of free agency due to the fact that hes already been outrighted once in his career (earlier this year by Pittsburgh). Mathias does have one minor league option remaining, though hes also sporting a solid .275/.370/.325 batting line in 46 plate appearances.
Following the Writers Guild of America strike, MTV will air a pre-taped 2023 Movie & TV Awards ceremony tonight at 8/7c.

About:

In solidarity with the WGA strike, 2023 host Drew Barymore has decided not to attend the golden popcorn event, ultimately leading to a cancellation of the live award show. According to NPR and a statement from MTV executive producer Bruce Gillmer, the channel is still airing a recorded version of the ceremony, promising, a live event that still enables us to produce a memorable night full of exclusive sneak peaks, irreverent categories our audience has come to expect, and countless moments that will both surprise and delight as we honor the best of film and TV over the past year.

For Best Performance in a Movie, Austin Butler (Elvis), Florence Pugh (Dont Worry Darling), KeKe Palmer (Nope), Michael B. Jordan (Creed III), and Tom Cruise (Top Gun: Maverick) hold the nominations, while the Best Movie category looks to Avatar: The Way of Water, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Elvis, Nope, Scream VI, Smile, and Top Gun: Maverick for the win.

Stranger Things, The Last of Us, The White Lotus, Wednesday, Wolf Pack, Yellowstone, and Yellowjackets are all slated for Best Show. And Best Performance in a Show nominees are Aubrey Plaza (The White Lotus), Christina Ricci (Yellowjackets), Jenna Ortega (Wednesday), Riley Keough (Daisy Jones & The Six), Sadie Sink (Stranger Things), and Selena Gomez (Only Murders in the Building).

Perhaps the most notable highlight, however, is Jennifer Coolidge accepting the Comedic Genius Award.

Watch the 2023 MTV Movie & TV Awards tonight at 8/7c on MTV.

Where to watch:
DETROIT  Two men have been given decades-long prison sentences related to the fatal shooting of a 2-year-old boy on Michigan highway during summer 2021.

Brison Christian, 2, was riding in the backseat of his familys black truck on Thursday, June 17, on I-75 in Detroit when he was fatally shot. His then-9-year-old brother was shot in the arm and survived.

Darius Evonte Lanier, 20, and Eugene Meredith Hubbard, 22, were convicted on charges related to the death of Brison Christian on April 21 after a three-week jury trial.

RELATED: Wrong truck was targeted in 2-year-olds death, 2 men charged with murder

They had mistakenly identified the vehicle, the Wayne County prosecutors office said. The Christian family were innocent victims.

On May 5, Hubbard was sentenced to life in prison without parole for first-degree murder. Lanier was sentenced to 525 to 840 months in prison for second-degree murder.

These convictions will not bring him back and his family must forever live with his loss, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy said in a statement. I hope that these sentences will bring them some peace.

READ MORE:

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Fatal shooting was over $3 refund at Michigan gas station, police say

Search underway for boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains
KALAMAZOO, MI -- The concentration of toxic gas found around a Kalamazoo neighborhood is a public health hazard, according to a long-awaited report from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

The report was released Monday, May 8, after nearly three years of analysis.

Levels of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) found on the Northside of Kalamazoo near the Graphic Packaging International paper mill and the Kalamazoo wastewater plant were analyzed, the report says.

The Environmental Protection Agency says hydrogen sulfide levels above 1.4 parts per billion can cause health problems with long-term exposure.

Sensors near the two properties -- east of North Pitcher Street and north of North Edwards Street -- showed concentrations regularly above 1.4 parts per billion, from September 2019 to December 2021.

Hydrogen sulfide was measured at levels of chronic exposure concern, meaning long-term exposure at the level were measuring will lead to persistent nasal irritation in some individuals, MDHHS Toxicology and Assessment Section Manager Marcus Wasilevich told MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette about the report.

State officials said sensors can pick up other compounds. But their analysis concludes the readings are attributable to hydrogen sulfide, an offensive-smelling, colorless, toxic gas.

State health officials began the study in August 2020. The analysis looks at 33 months of data, MDHHS said.

The 142-page report is inconclusive in some areas, but confirms what people have wondered for years -- that the gas is a health hazard.

Long-term exposure to hydrogen sulfide brings an increased risk of nasal irritation, even after the person stops breathing in the gas, the report said.

Wasilevich said the EPA defines a lifetime exposure as 10% of a persons life, and the term generally means several years of consistent exposure.

Thats what were seeing in the Kalamazoo data. Were consistently above that 1.4 parts per billion mark, he said.

There is no risk for short-term exposure, he said, but the levels are concerning for a chronic exposure.

Chronic risk means if you have long-term, consistent exposures at those levels, it might lead to some sort of health impact, Wasilevich said.

Related: Pollution in Kalamazoo air for years has experts concerned about health long-term

H2S is often strong enough to smell. People with asthma or respiratory problems should go inside when they smell odors, the report states.

Be aware of what is influencing you, Wasilevich said. If the odor is making you feel ill, shut the windows. Stay indoors on days that have a lot of odors.

MDHHS also recommends people with asthma take their control and rescue medications. Residents with questions about their health should talk with their doctor, the agency said.

Hydrogen sulfide should continue to be investigated and sources should be mitigated, MDHHS recommended. The report recommends more monitoring and sampling for volatile organic compounds to get a better idea of ambient concentrations and seasonal variations.

Looking for your local Kalamazoo news? Well send you the top local stories every weekday at 3 p.m. free to your inbox. Enter your email here:



The city wastewater treatment plant and the paper mill are both sources of the gas, the report states, and sensors at both locations have seen levels exceeding 1.4 parts per billion.

At a sensor at Gull Road and Riverview Drive, the average level was about 19 parts per billion in 2020, and about 14 parts per billion in 2021. The monthly average has not dropped below 4.6 parts per billion since it went live in September 2019.

As shown below in data compiled by MLive through August 2022, levels remained 10 times higher than the EPAs benchmark for concern.

City of Kalamazoo data on hydrogen sulfide levels found in the air. Data from September 2019 to March 2022 is 1-minute data averaged by month. Data from April 2022 to September 2022 is 15-minute sample data averaged by month.

Graphic Packaging released its live hydrogen sulfide data publicly for the first time last week, as mandated by the state.

Equipment problems hampered some data collection. Data from July, August and December 2021 collected at Krom and Prouty Park was deemed unreliable due to malfunctioning equipment.

The neighborhood park on the Northside is where the highest concentration of H2S was detected in September 2021.

Similar problems wiped out data from the Northside Neighborhood Association sensor on North Park Street. Equipment tampering and theft rendered all data unreliable after May 2020 at Verburg Park, directly across the street from both facilities.

Questions remain about asthma

The report analyzed asthma data for three ZIP codes in the area. Heres how adult asthma prevalence in these areas compares to the state average:

ZIP codes 49001, 49006 and 49008: 14.8% asthma rate

ZIP codes 49004, 49007 and 49048: 13.4% asthma rate

Statewide average: 11.0% asthma rate

While the ZIP codes on the Northside are higher than the Michigan average, the difference is not statistically significant, per the study.

In the asthma analysis, ZIP codes were analyzed as a group, not individually.

Three ZIP codes analyzed -- 49004, 49007 and 49048 -- did have higher asthma hospitalization rates over a period of years compared to neighboring ZIP codes where Graphic Packaging and wastewater plant emissions did not significantly penetrate.

MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette inquired why the study did not include an analysis of asthma data on a census tract level.

We are going to do some follow-up analyses, and if there is a better way to conceptualize the geography, we certainly will explore that, Senior Epidemiologist Elizabeth Wasilevich, who works in the office of the director of the agency, told MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette. She is married to the other source in this story, Marcus Wasilevich.

Elizabeth Wasilevich said researchers chose the area, in part, because they wanted enough data to produce a statistically significant result.

We couldnt have gone into a smaller geographic area, she said. Researchers could not look at a portion of a ZIP code, she said.

Dr. David Ansell, a physician and social epidemiologist who is vice president of community health equity at Rush University Medical Center, authored a report in 2020 that said air quality in the 49007 ZIP code is below the U.S. average.

Asthma prevalence among neighborhood adults, between 2012 and 2014, was the highest in Kalamazoo. Asthma hospitalizations were also much higher there than in all other Kalamazoo neighborhoods, Ansells analysis found.

Areas facing environmental impacts from Graphic Packaging and the wastewater plant could be small, Ansell said, suggesting census-tract level data to do the study. Ansell said he believes it is flawed to use ZIP code level data to try to study asthma prevalence related to air quality in this case.

Expanding the geographic area too much could mean missing a signal, he said.

MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette requested the raw data MDHHS used to examine asthma prevalence. The agency said the raw data will not be given out, to protect privacy.

Future analyses by the MDHHS could consider census tract data, a department spokesperson said.

Because the results are based on surveillance data, not epidemiological study, the authors said they cannot indicate a causal relationship to any environmental contaminants.

This analysis only represents a descriptive review of asthma prevalence and hospitalizations, it states.

A community townhall is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 120 Roberson St., to discuss the results and answer questions.

An additional session goes from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 24, at the Urban Alliance, 1009 E. Stockbridge Ave.

The city of Kalamazoo's wastewater treatment plant on Sept. 16, 2022.

For more information, call the MDHHS Division of Environmental Health Hotline at 800-648-6942. Visit Michigan.gov/EnviroHealth and Kalamazoo Health Consultation to view the entire health consultation.

Monday morning, before the report was made public, Graphic Packaging said it would not comment on the report yet, because it had not seen the report.

The full report is available, below.

Reporter Garret Ellison contributed to this report.

Read more:

Pollution in Kalamazoo air for years has experts concerned about health long-term

Kalamazoo County now streaming meetings on 3 social media platforms

Dangerous hot spot next to WMU campus needs solution, police chief says

Kalamazoo aims to reduce wait times at red lights

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.
ONTONAGON COUNTY, MI -- A boy who was missing for more than 48 hours has been found safe under a log in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on Monday afternoon, authorities said.

Nante Niemi, 8, of Hurley, Wis., has been reunited with his family, Michigan State Police said on Twitter.

He went camping with family over the weekend in the remote Michigan park. He was walking, gathering firewood for the campsite when he went missing around 1 p.m. Saturday, May 6. MSP began the search began the evening.

A volunteer searching found him under/near a log, whered he been the entire time, about two miles from the campsite, the tweet said. He appears to be in good health!

MSP Wakefield Post led the investigation and search on the ground, in the air and on water. More than 150 personnel from MSP and local partners assisted in the search.

Nante is a student at Hurley School District, which posted an update with photos of him being escorted out of the woods by piggyback ride.

RELATED: Police release identity of Wisconsin boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains

RELATED: Search underway for boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains

The sprawling Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park  known as the Porkies  includes 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, Lake Superior shoreline, rivers, trails and ridges with incomparable views. Its located in western Upper Peninsula of Michigan near Wisconsin.

READ MORE:

2 sentenced in highway shooting death of 2-year-old Michigan boy

Man, 69, found dead in trunk of his stolen vehicle, suspect charged with murder

Fatal shooting was over $3 refund at Michigan gas station, police say
MONROE COUNTY, MI  A Michigan State Police trooper shot and killed a 61-year-old man in Monroe County over the weekend.

According to the MSP, the shooting involving a trooper from the agencys Monroe post occured when police responded to a domestic violence report at a residence in Temperance on May 6.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a 61-year-old man had allegedly fired several shots throughout the house. Troopers then surrounded the home.

The suspect then allegedly pointed a gun at troopers as he left the home, prompting the trooper to fire several rounds from his departmental rifle, police said. The suspect was struck and died from his injuries.

No other injuries were reported.

The trooper, who has five years of service, has been placed on leave, per departmental policy. He was not identified by name.

The investigation is pending autopsy results, further investigation and a prosecutor review, police said.
UPDATE: Boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains found safe after 48 hours

ONTONAGON COUNTY, MI  Police have released the identity of an 8-year-old Wisconsin boy who went missing Saturday while camping with his family in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, authorities said.

Nante Niemi, 8, of Hurley, Wis., was walking, gathering firewood for the campsite when he went missing around 1 p.m. Saturday, May 6. Troopers from the Michigan State Police Wakefield Post are leading the investigation and search efforts, which is now in the third day.

Nante is a white male, about 4-foot, 2-inches tall and weighing 70 to 80 pounds. He has blonde hair and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a white sweatshirt, grey sweatpants and black boots.

RELATED: Search underway for boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains

More than 150 search and rescue personnel from MSp and local partners, including nine K9 units, are searching a roughly 40-square-mile area on foot. There are also resources in the air and on water as weather allows.

The terrain is very remote and hilly with a lot of standing water due to the time of the year, MSP said. Several seasonal roads are still impassable because of snow depth.

The park has closed the Presque Isle Day Use area until further notice while the search continues. Police have not requested volunteers and have asked the public to stay clear of the area.

The sprawling Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park  known as the Porkies  includes 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, Lake Superior shoreline, rivers, trails and ridges with incomparable views. Its located in western Upper Peninsula of Michigan near Wisconsin.

READ MORE:

2 sentenced in highway shooting death of 2-year-old Michigan boy

Man, 69, found dead in trunk of his stolen vehicle, suspect charged with murder

Fatal shooting was over $3 refund at Michigan gas station, police say
Cape Town  South Kivu province has been battered by torrential rain, causing an overflow to rivers in the region, that has left significant damage in Bushushu and Nyamukubi villages, BBC News reports.

According to the Governor of South Kivu, Theo Ngwabidje Kasi, the death toll has risen to at least 401.

At least 176 people were reported dead on Friday, May 5, 2023 and many more are missing.

A further 205 people were seriously injured in the flooding caused when rivers burst their banks following heavy rains on Thursday, May 4, while 167 people are listed as missing.

According to BBC News, in several villages close to the shore of Lake Kivu, people have been digging through the mud with their hands in a desperate search for missing relatives.

President Felix Tshisekedi has declared a national day of mourning today, Monday May 8, and a team of ministers is set to travel to the region to coordinate humanitarian aid and disaster management, government spokesman Patrick Muyaya has said.

The floods in DR Congo comes two days after devastating floods in Rwanda in which 131 people died and thousands of homes were destroyed on the other side of Lake Kivu.
IRON MOUNTAIN, MI  The Michigan State Police are investigating after a roadside memorial was vandalized in the Upper Peninsula.

According to the MSP Iron Mountain post, the memorial to former Iron County Road Commission employee Larry Leonarduzzi was vandalized with white spray paint sometime between 5:30 p.m. on April 27 and 10 a.m. on April 28.

RELATED: Michigan road worker deaths rise in 2020 as families grapple with devastation left in their wake

The memorial, a large yellow cross with Leonarduzzis name on the back, is located on Bates-Amasa Road Near Shady Lane in Iron Countys Bates Township.

The memorial was dedicated to Leonarduzzi, who died on Jan. 13, 2021, when he was struck by a vehicle while manning a traffic control point in a work zone at the location.

Anyone with information regarding the vandalism is asked to contact the Michigan State Police at 906-774-2122.
UPDATE: Boy, 8, missing in Porcupine Mountains found safe after 48 hours

ONTONAGON COUNTY, MI  A large-scale search is underway for an 8-year-old Wisconsin boy who went missing over the weekend while camping with his family in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, authorities said.

The search is now entering the third day. Dozens of agencies have gathered at the remote park in Michigans Upper Peninsula to search for the child, including Michigan State Police, the U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement from several counties, WLUC reports. They are using K9s, aerial and other search methods. They have not called for volunteers and have asked the public to stay clear of the area, the park said in a news release.

On Saturday, the family was camping at the state park. Half of them were fishing while the others collected firewood, the report said. Around 1 p.m., the boy asked to return to the nearby campsite. No one has seen him since. The family searched for the boy before involving law enforcement around 6 p.m.

The park has closed the Presque Isle Day Use area until further notice while the search continues.

The missing child is a student at Hurley School District, which has gathered two school-buses full of volunteers who are ready to help in the search if they are called upon, the district said.

Hurley, Wis., is located near Ironwood along the Michigan-Wisconsin border.

The sprawling Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park  known as the Porkies  includes 60,000 acres of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, Lake Superior shoreline, rivers, trails and ridges with incomparable views.

READ MORE:

Police identify fisherman who died in Northern Michigan river

Police identify person who dropped puppies over shelters fence during frigid night

State police arrest stabbing suspect after standoff in Wyoming
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- There seems to be a lot of changes happening for businesses throughout Washtenaw County whether stores are opening, closing or adjusting their operations.

Heres some recent business news you might have missed.

Chick-fil-A may be coming to site of former Ann Arbor Dennys

Chick-fil-A fans may soon get the chance to score the restaurants well-known chicken and sauce in Ann Arbor.

Officials discussed the possible development at an Ann Arbor Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on Wednesday, April 26.

Preliminary site plans shared at the ZBAs meeting show the popular fast-food chain may be considering the citys former Dennys location that closed in March 2022 at at 3310 Washtenaw Ave.

Read the full story here.

Ypsilanti Running Company announces it will be closing at the end of June

Ypsilanti Running Co. recently announced it is permanently closing it doors on June 30 after nine years of operating.

The Ypsilanti business at 126 W. Michigan Ave. opened in 2014 and is known for selling footwear, socks, nutrition items, running accessories and apparel. The company is also responsible for putting on different running events throughout the city.

Read the full story here.

New Ann Arbor boutique, beauty store aims to be resource for people with textured hair

Sheena McCullers was looking for a place to connect with others after moving to Ann Arbor from Brooklyn, New York.

When she couldnt find a spot, McCullers decided to create one herself.

McCullers opened a beauty supply store and boutique called Dellas at 313 S. State St. Suite #6 that sells hair care and styling products, wigs, extensions and a variety of gift items like candles, jewelry and skin care.

Read the full story here.

Maggies Organics in Dexter is now employee-owned after three decades of operation

Founder Bena Burda of Maggies Organics said she always wanted her company to become employee-owned. Now her wish is coming true.

Burda recently sold her organic clothing business that operates out of Dexter to Teamshares, which is a company dedicated to purchasing small businesses from retiring owners so they never have to be sold again.

Read the full story here.

The Grateful Crow in Chelsea is serving sushi burritos with its new food truck

The Grateful Crow is hitting the road and bringing different menu items with its new food truck.

The Chelsea fusion burger and sushi bar will offer sushi burritos and bowls with its newest addition. The food truck will be available to be booked by other businesses, private parties and special events.

Read the full story here.

Read more from The Ann Arbor News:

Developer scales back plan for 19-story Ann Arbor high-rise

With studio rents over $2,400, Ann Arbor grapples with downtown affordability

Demolition paves way for new Ann Arbor condos costing up to $2 million
ANN ARBOR, MI -- A 35-year-old man has been charged after he reportedly hit a woman in downtown Ann Arbor late last month.

Durrell Perkins, 35, was arraigned on charges of aggravated assault and trespassing on Monday, May 8, in 15th District Court. Surveillance footage captured Perkins assaulting a 56-year-old Ann Arbor woman around 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, according to Ann Arbor police.

The woman had been walking southbound across Catherine Street near North Main Street when the man allegedly came up behind her, she told MLive/The Ann Arbor News.

Read more: Womans jaw fractured in 3 places after assault in downtown Ann Arbor

The woman suffered three fractures to her upper jawbone and was taken to the University of Michigan Hospital. The two did not know each other, police said.

Perkins is also being charged in the same court with trespassing in connection with an early April incident.

Perkins bond is set at $30,000. He is currently being held at the Washtenaw County Jail.

Read more from The Ann Arbor News:

34-year-old Jackson County man fatally shot in head

Roadside memorial at site of 2021 fatal crash vandalized in Upper Peninsula

Fatal shooting was over $3 refund at Michigan gas station, police say
SALINE, MI - Washtenaw County commissioners, its prosecutor and leadership with the county Sheriffs Office are inviting the public to a town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 9, focused on racial equity and social justice.

The setting, Saline City Hall, is no stranger to the conversations. Racist comments from Saline students and a parent thrust the city into the spotlight in early 2020, spurring a wide-ranging series of community discussions centered on diversity and inclusion.

Read more: Saline community reflects on progress made in diversity forums

County Commissioner Shannon Beeman, representing the southwestern county District 3, led the first of those meetings, she said, held weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic took center stage.

We were having some really great conversations with the community around issues that were happening both in Saline and countywide, she said. Unfortunately, virtual happened, disruption happened, peoples focus shifted, and this seems to be a really good time to come back to the conversation.

Beeman, whose district covers Saline and Manchester, as well as nearby rural areas, is organizing the Tuesday town hall in part to share officials progress on racial equity goals.

That includes the first years of the county Racial Equity Office, created in 2018, and now leading initiatives ranging from a council tasked with developed a reparations plan for Black residents to coordinating some $72 million in federal COVID relief spending.

Read more: Nearing 4 years on the job, what is Washtenaw Countys racial equity officer up to?

The county board is proud of its work on social justice and racial equity, said its chair, Ypsilanti-area Commissioner Justin Hodge, in a statement.

This community town hall is a great opportunity for Washtenaw County residents to engage with leaders and learn more about the work that has been done, he said. We are taking bold steps toward justice and leading the way in Michigan on the vital work of righting systemic wrongs.

The city of Saline is excited to host this town hall and encouraged by the racial equity work happening at Washtenaw County, added Saline Mayor Brian Marl in a statement.

A panel of officials in attendance will include Beeman, Hodge, county Administrator Gregory Dill, Prosecutor Eli Savit and Sheriffs Office Director of Community Engagement Derrick Jackson, according to an announcement of the event.

It is scheduled between 6 and 7 p.m., with time for questions and feedback, at City Hall, 100 North Harris Street in Saline.

The town hall is an in-person event, and virtual participation will not be an option, according to county board Operations and Communications Manager Ashley Hall.

This is the chance for us to come together and discuss what is happening, what is needed and what work is still left to be done, Beeman said.

More from The Ann Arbor News:

Preservation of farmland near Saline illogical, housing developers argue in lawsuit

Parking rates are going up at the University of Michigan

$31.4M tax capture for Ann Arbor housing project gets countys OK

Ann Arbor Art Fair is coming back for 3 days in July with nearly 1K artists
FLINT, MI  Michigans highest court will not hear an appeal from a former Flint police officer convicted of sexual assault.

The Michigan Supreme Court on Tuesday, May 2, ruled that it was denying an application for leave in the case of Justin McLeod, who was seeking to appeal a December 2022 ruling by the Michigan Court of Appeals.

The court of appeals ruling at the center of McLeods appeal to the higher court was a denial of a past ruling by former Genesee County Circuit Court Judge F. Kay Behm, who had denied a motion for resentencing in the case.

It is denied, because we are not persuaded that the question presented should be reviewed by this Court, the Michigan Supreme Court wrote in its ruling.

McLeod, originally of Flushing, was sentenced in August 2021 to a minimum of 10 years in prison after previously pleading guilty to criminal sexual conduct charges.

A six-year veteran of the Flint Police Department, where he had worked as part of the agencys K-9 and motorcycle units, McLeod had pleaded guilty to six counts relating to the sexual abuse of two women.

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office arrested the former officer in November 2020 after an investigation into the assault of an underage girl.

The initial issue came to light when a forensic nurse examiner at Ascension Genesys hospital received a call about a possible sexual assault, according to prior reporting.

In that case, McLoed pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree sexual conduct, both reduced from a charge of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13.

Shortly after his arrest, a second person reported being victimized by McLeod.

In the second case, McLeod pleaded guilty to assault with the intent of sexual penetration and common law offenses.

McLeods original motion for resentencing was on the grounds that he received a disproportionate sentence. That motion was denied, prompting his attorney, Jessica Mainprize-Hajek, to file the appeal with the Michigan Court of Appeals.

When he is released, McLeod will be required to register as a lifetime tier III sex offender and wear an electronic monitor.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Flint police officer arraigned on multiple sexual assault charges

Ex-Flint police officer faces more sexual assault charges

Former Flint police officer sentenced to prison after guilty plea in sexual assault case
FLINT, MI -- The Genesee Intermediate School District has added an HVAC program that will allow Genesee County high school juniors and seniors to take classes at Mott Community College.

GISD announced the new program in partnership with Mott Community College in a Friday, May 5, news release.

Mott Community College will host high school students three days per week during GCIs third session. Students will receive hands-on training to start a career in the HVAC field.

Each school district has two available seats in the program. Enrollment is now open but space is limited, according to a news release from the organization.

Students who are interested in signing up for the new program should go through their local school counselors, according to the release.

Employment of HVAC mechanics is expected to grow by five percent by 2031, according to the release.

We are excited to offer this opportunity to students who are interested in pursuing a career in HVAC, GCI Principal Julie Lublin said. We have received a lot of interest from parents and students through Facebook and we are looking forward to meeting with them to provide more information about the program.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Michigan high schooler strives for greatness as Young Marine of the Year

Grand Blanc teacher wins national art education leadership award

Genesee Intermediate School District to host career fair for educators

Mixed-use development that will host new YMCA and housing units breaks ground in Flint
FLINT, MI  Michigan State Superintendent Michael Rice sent a letter to Flint Community Schools last week acknowledging concerns for the district after three top administrators quit in the last six weeks.

The letter, dated May 3, said that all three departures had to do with reservations associated with the boards involvement in their work and their inability to perform their roles in support of Flints scholars and staff as a result.

The Genesee Intermediate School District is currently supporting the districts administration in financial management and has offered support in human resources and grants management, according to the letter.

Assistance from GISD wont last forever, since the organization doesnt have sufficient capacity, according to the letter.

Rice called on the board of education to complete board-superintendent governance training on a consistent basis to maintain roles and responsibilities. Training should start immediately and continue throughout the year, Rice wrote.

The need for this training has become more apparent with the swift departure of pending departure of key leadership team members at a time that the district can ill afford a lock of continuity in its operations, Rice wrote. In the last 10 years, FCS has lost more than 5,400 scholars, approximately two-thirds of its enrollment. The constant turnover in the FCS superintendency and in FCS administration undermines the long-term ability of the district to attract and retain educators and continue to serve Flint scholars.

Chief Financial Officer Latisha Wolf was the first administrator to go in the first week of April. Human Resources Executive Director Sharita Galloway was next just two weeks later. Lastly, Assistant Superintendent Keiona Murphy tendered her resignation.

The intent of this communication is to reiterate our very strong interest in supporting FCS and the urgency with which we believe support is needed, Rice wrote.

The Board of Education has five members that joined within the past seven months: Michael Clack, Claudia Perkins, Dylan Luna, Melody Relerford and Terae King Jr. Joyce Ellis-McNeal and Laura MacIntyre began in 2021.

Some are worried that infighting between board members will only continue as it did with the former board after police were asked to investigate a payment to a former employee.

The district recently instituted a new policy that bans backpacks from all buildings until the end of this academic year due to safety concerns.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Backpacks banned at Flint schools for rest of academic year due to safety concerns

Flint Community Schools loses assistant superintendent in wave of resignations

In past decade, Flint schools have lost 66% of their students

Underutilized Flint school buildings need $128M in capital improvement in next three years, report shows

Three vacant Flint school properties recommended for sale

Timeline of Flint superintendents shows steady turnover since 2005
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Two men pleaded guilty Monday, May 8, in a scheme to bypass emission controls on semi-trucks heavy-duty diesel engines.

So far, four of 11 men have pleaded guilty to federal charges after a U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys investigation was announced last month.

Douglas Larsen, 51, of Wayland, pleaded guilty Monday to conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act, a potential five-year felony. Randy Clelland, 33, of Grand Rapids, pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act, a two-year felony.

Last week, Robert Swainston, 50, of Hopkins, and Glenn Hoezee, 55, of Howard City, pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Air Act, which regulates the source of mobile pollution.

Related: Service manager admits role in diesel-engine emissions tampering case

Federal prosecutors say workers at Accurate Truck Service removed or altered hardware while Diesel Freak reprogrammed trucks engine computers. Griffin Transportation then worked with the other two to delete the systems on trucks, the government said.

Related: 11 Michigan men charged in major U.S. diesel engine tampering case

By altering emission controls, the defendants intended to improve diesel trucks fuel economy and performance and reduce maintenance costs, investigators said.

Larsen and Clelland entered guilty pleas Monday before U.S. Magistate Judge Sally Berens. They will be sentenced later this summer by Judge Paul Maloney in Kalamazoo.

Larsen said he conspired with others to violate the Clean Air Act.

Related: Man first to plead guilty in major diesel-engine emissions tampering case

The conspirators violated the Clean Air Act by falsifying, tampering with, rendering inaccurate, deleting, modifying, and removing software and hardware components from the emissions monitoring systems in heavy-duty diesel engines and vehicles that were required under the Clean Air Act, signed plea agreements for Larsen and Clelland said.

Removal of emission controls adds to pollution by increasing the output of nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.

Prosecutors said the scheme ran from 2012 to 2018.

Others charged are Ryan Lalone, 47, of Gaylord; Wade Lalone, 44, of Gaylord; Dustin Rhine, 32, of Indian River; James Sisson, 42, of Mt. Pleasant; Craig Scholten, 58, of Byron Center; Ryan Bos, 45, of Grandville; and Scott DeKock, 45, of Hudsonville.

Scholten and Bos own Griffin Transportation, a Grand Rapids-based trucking firm that operates across the U.S. Accurate Truck Service, with headquarters in Grand Rapids, is owned by Scholten, Bos and Larsen, the government said.

Ryan Lalone owns Diesel Freak in Gaylord.

Want more Grand Rapids-area news? Bookmark the local Grand Rapids news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Grand Rapids daily newsletter.

Read more:

New digital vehicle permits for Ottawa Countys Lake Michigan parks now available

Timeline: The 15-year push to bring whitewater rapids to the Grand River

Safety discussion planned for forum after 3 students bring guns to GRPS schools
IONIA COUNTY, MI  State police on Sunday, May 7, arrested a suspect in a Belding-area stabbing after a standoff in Wyoming.

The stabbing happened early Sunday near Belding during a domestic assault. The victim was taken to a hospital for what appeared to be stab wounds, state police said.

The suspect was known to the victim.

Sunday night, state police, along with Wyoming police, tried to arrest the suspect at a Wyoming home for felonious assault. The suspect at first refused to come out but after negotiations with police was eventually arrested, police said.

Read more:

1 man stabbed, 4 women assaulted during family dispute, say Lansing police

New agreement stipulates how $30M Grand Rapids amphitheater grant will be doled out
IN SHORT: With Peter Obi challenging Bola Tinubu's presidential election victory in court, a visit to his rival would be newsworthy. But that visit did not happen.

A post circulating on social media claims that Nigerian opposition leader Peter Obi visited president-elect Bola Tinubu.

This would be notable because Obi is challenging the outcome of the country's February 2023 election, in which Tinubu, the candidate of the governing All Progressives Congress, was declared the winner.

Obi, who contested on the ticket of the Labour Party, came third.

The post, which includes a photo of the two politicians and other dignitaries, was also shared by various pages on Twitter and Facebook.

The post reads, in part: "The Labour Party presidential candidate H.E Peter Obi visited the president-elect Tinubu. The reconciliation and nation building has started."

Other people in the photo include the speaker of the house of representatives Femi Gbajabiamila, billionaire business executive Aliko Dangote and the governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

But did Tinubu and Obi meet?

Obi: I didn't visit Tinubu

A Google image search shows that the original image was shared on the president-elect's official Twitter page on 26 April.

The photo was taken during a courtesy visit by Dangote to Tinubu's private residence. But Obi was not present.

In the image doing the rounds, it is clear that he has been photoshopped in.

In an interview with local news channel Arise News on 1 May, Obi denied visiting Tinubu.

He said: "It did not happen. I have never visited him."
JACKSON COUNTY, MI -- A 34-year-old Jackson County man was fatally shot Sunday evening, according to police.

Police believe he was shot by his uncle, according to a press release.

Deputies from the Jackson County Sheriffs Office were called to the 12400 block of Stony Point Road in Hanover Township around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 7, for the shooting, police said.

When deputies arrived, they found a 34-year-old man dead from an apparent gunshot wound to the head. A firearm was also found inside the home, police said.

Drugs and alcohol are believed to be involved, according to police.

Police arrested a 55-year-old man in connection with the shooting. He is currently lodged at the Jackson County Jail pending charges.

Read more from MLive:

Popular Lake Michigan state parks largest campground closed for construction

Loomis Park about a month away from reopening with all new playground

1 hospitalized after shooting involving Michigan State Police
KALAMAZOO, MI  A bomb threat was called into the Kalamazoo County Courthouse on Monday morning, May 8.

A person called the courthouse, 227 W. Michigan Ave., and made a bomb threat shortly after business hours began on May 8, Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller III said. The staff member alerted the deputies at the courthouse.

The call came directly into the courthouse, not 911. The building was evacuated, judges were moved to a secure location and emergency procedures were followed, Fuller said.

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The Kalamazoo Public Safety bomb squad, the sheriffs office and a bomb-sniffing dog with the Western Michigan University police department were brought in to search the building.

No explosives or devices were found and there is no indication the threat was real, Fuller said.

Business returned to normal after the building was cleared, with court hearings continuing.

Police are working to identify the caller. If the person is identified, they can be charged with making a terroristic threat, a charge that carries up to a 20-year prison sentence, Fuller said.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.

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Portage assistant police chief is retiring exactly 35 years after swearing in

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Man acquitted of killing, raping 13-month old in Kalamazoo
KALAMAZOO, MI -- Community members are concerned about violence at the Campus Pointe strip mall near Western Michigan University.

Leaders hosted a closed-door meeting on Monday, May 8, at WMUs Trimpe Hall, 2466 Ring Road, to work toward a solution.

The event was originally announced as open to the public, but only those invited were allowed to attend. Residents and students have been clamoring for change, as the area has become a gathering point for mobile nuisance parties with open intoxication, loud music, large crowds and more.

Its also been a hot spot for gun violence, including a homicide in November 2022, said Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Chief David Boysen.

Mondays meeting was held to bring a small group of people together to discuss solutions. Larger meetings can be less productive, Boysen said.

I didnt really want to have community members talking about the problems, we know the problems, Boysen said. I want the people that have the ability to affect some long-term change come up with ideas.

Invited attendees included police officials, business and property owners in the area, WMU leaders, Southwest Michigan First, city attorneys and other city employees, Boysen said.

An MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette reporter was prohibited from entering the meeting.

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Roughly 20 to 30 people attended, some of whom left through the back door. The full list of attendees wont be released until all invitees are notified, a KDPS spokesperson said. Several attendees declined to speak on the record about what was discussed.

A representative from Southwest Michigan First could not be reached for comment at the time of publishing.

There was a lot of agreement in the room about what could be done, Boysen said.

The big thing is really about limiting access, (so we can) control that lot, Boysen said. Well see hundreds and hundreds of cars up there and people up at 2, 3, 4 in the morning.

Most of the individuals gathering in the lot are not students or patrons of the businesses. Theyre only there just to hang out and party, Boysen said.

We need to fix the underlying issues: Whats drawing people to the location and what can we do to limit that? Boysen said.

In the past few years, Boysen said the strategy was to direct more officers to the area. Police have talked to property owners, but they all needed to come together.

The businesses would say Well its not us, its the parking lot, Boysen said. The people who own the parking lot would say Its not us, its the businesses. Well the truth is somewhere in between there. We need everyone in the room really to get on the same page.

KDPS Captain Scott VanderEnde said the area is a perfect storm, with businesses open late and people drinking alcohol.

Police are spending increasing amounts of time responding to the area. Since 2021, police received 55 calls for crowds, 53 for fights/disturbances and 41 assault/domestic violence calls at Campus Pointe, KDPS numbers show.

Figures provided by the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety show police indents by type at Campus Pointe, near Western Michigan University's main campus in Kalamazoo.

The majority of incidents are reported at 2941 Howard St., the location of Y-Bar and Bistro, Que Buenos Fresh Mexican Grill and The Den Party Store.

Since Jan. 1, 2021, 526 incidents were reported at the address. The lot was also the site of a homicide in November 2022. Damien Lang was charged with killing 21-year-old Bryce Salter following an altercation in the Campus Pointe parking lot outside the Y-Bar.

A follow-up meeting will be held with property owners to share ideas. The strategies decided on will be communicated to the public, Boysen said.

KDPS Community Collaborator LaToya Turner has been in touch with community members who expressed their desire to be involved, Boysen said.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.

More on MLive

What do we owe our local nature? Kalamazoo community event asks

Bomb threat prompts evacuation at Kalamazoo County Courthouse

Air pollution levels in Kalamazoo neighborhood are hazardous, state finds
SAGINAW TWP, MI  A Saturday night fire in Saginaw Township has claimed the life of a 72-year-old woman.

According to Saginaw County Central Dispatch, the fire was reported at the home in the 2900 block of Johns Drive at 10:15 p.m. Saturday, May 6.

Saginaw Township police officers were the first to arrive and attempted to rescue the woman trapped inside.

Fire crews and medical aid arrived shortly after and began to douse what officials said were heavy fire conditions coming from a first-floor bedroom to get her out.

Two other occupants of the home were able to escape the fire safely, but, once extinguished, firefighters found the 72-year-old deceased. No firefighters were reported injured.

Investigators from the Saginaw County Medical Examiners Office have ordered an autopsy to determine the womans cause of death.

Red Cross officials were also there providing assistance to the family.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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Happy Monday, readers.

Spring is in the air. Snow is in the rearview mirror. Summer concert season is almost here (for $25!). And it was a busy week for electric vehicle news across Michigan.

Our first stop: Marshall, Michigan.

Some dont want a Ford plant in Marshall

Marshall city council members listen to members of the public speak during a city council meeting at the Calhoun County Building, 315 W. Green St. in Marshall, Mich. on Monday, May 1, 2023.Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

A proposed $3.5 billion Ford battery plant took a step forward this week.

But only after an eight-hour Marshall City Council meeting where dozens of people voiced concerns about the sprawling 2.5 million-square-foot facility that will be built on 1,200 acres of rural land.

We have literally lost sleep over this, said Liz Wright, 37, who lives five miles north of the development site. They think this is a benefit to the communities and its going to bring families in. Its going to have the opposite effect. People do not want to live next to a factory.

Despite six hours of public comment, city leaders ultimately gave the project an OK by voting to rezone township land for industrial use. Ford plans to construct the sprawling BlueOval City Battery Park on a 1,200-acre parcel tucked between I-94 and I-69 (with the help of state dollars).

Related: Hundreds lined up to thwart Ford plant. Why Marshall residents are losing sleep.

Some Marshall residents have pushed back on the project worried about the environment, destruction of farmland and government transparency.

John Rothwell, 69, feels local and state leaders are stonewalling and turning their backs on the public in favor of corporations.

It feels like our government isnt working for the people, but for big business, Rothwell said. Whoever drops the most money on them is who they bend to.

Others in the community have applauded the development for bringing jobs to Marshall.

Caryn Drenth, owner of Living MI and Handle & Hinge in downtown Marshall, said the community has been hit by its share of job losses in recent years.

BlueOval Battery Park will spark investment and infuse millions of dollars into the local economy, helping small businesses like mine and many others, Drenth said in a statement.

The battery plant is expected to open in 2026.

Related: Ford battery plant greenlit after 6-hour public comment pushes vote past midnight

Gotion hits pause on rezoning

Gotion plans to build a $2.3 billion electric vehicle battery parts plant in Green Charter Township. But some residents have pushed back on the project. (Photo by Rose White | MLive)

A hundred and fifty miles north of Marshall, theres another battery controversy.

Gotion Inc. announced plans last year to build a battery parts plant in Big Rapids Township and Green Charter Township. But fears about the companys Chinese affiliation have shrouded the $2.4 billion investment.

This prompted Gotion to temporarily delay a rezoning application last week to continue to communicate with the local community and answer the many questions that have been raised, said Chuck Thelen, the battery makers vice president of North American operations.

Related: Gotion pauses step of Chinese-linked plant to convince Michigan locals

Furor over Gotion, a wholly owned American subsidiary, having a Chinese parent company has escalated in recent months. An opposition rally two weeks ago drew hundreds of people and Republican lawmakers to a horse farm near the site. Gotion has repeatedly pushed back on claims saying there is no communist plot woven into the battery parts facility.

Were confident that when the facts are presented, we can effectively resolve these questions and show the tremendous benefit to the community, Thelen said.

The delay in rezoning land for industrial use will not impact the construction timeline.

Gotion expects to be operational by 2025.

Gigafactory a big get for Michigan

While anxiety swirls around some electric vehicle projects, Michigan announced another clean energy investment.

Norwegian company Nel Hydrogen plans to build a $400 million gigafactory* to manufacture equipment that produces hydrogen fuel. It will be the first factory in the United States to produce electrolyzers, which uses electrolysis to produce hydrogen from water.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer celebrated the news last week saying Michigan is serious about leading hydrogen development.

A site for the factory has not been chosen yet.

*Gigafactory is a term Tesla coined to refer to a largescale battery facility.

Related: Michigan lands $400 million hydrogen fuel gigafactory, Whitmer announces

How Michigan could gain EV jobs

Thousands of jobs are on the line as the auto industry becomes electrified.

And a new report from the World Resources Institute outlines how Michigan can adopt policies to gain 56,000 electric vehicle jobs by 2030  instead of losing up to 47,000. But it will mean shifting the workforce toward more highly skilled workers.

Related: Michigan could gain 56,000 electric vehicle jobs  but itll need workers

The transition to electric vehicles stands to benefit Michigan significantly in terms of creating economic opportunities, creating new jobs, in addition to the climate and health benefits, said Devashree Saha, who co-authored the report. Having said that, the transition is also going to be uneven, and it may have an impact on certain segments of the automotive value chain, which could potentially see job losses.

The report suggests Michigan improve its manufacturing to attract electric vehicle investments and talent, develop charging infrastructure and create quality jobs to grow the industry and ensure longtime auto workers are not left behind.

Heres a few more headlines to kickstart your Monday:
Nollywood actor, Frederick Leonard, has expressed his utmost gratitude to his wife and colleague, Peggy Ovire, for putting up a surprise birthday party for him away from home.

Leonard took to his Facebook page on Sunday, May 7, to share the heartwarming story with his fans and followers.

In the post, Leonard revealed that he had left home months ago for work, hoping to make it back in good time for his birthday.

However, as the months turned into weeks and the weeks turned into days leading up to his birthday, it became clear that his work schedule would not allow him to fly back to Lagos.

Leonard's wife, Peggy, then stepped in and flew all the way to where he was working, 48 hours before his birthday, to put up a surprise birthday dinner in a town she knows no one.

The actor was blown away by the gesture and couldn't help but express his gratitude in the post.

"Babe, I want you to know that I see you, I see the sacrifice, I see the effort," Leonard wrote.

"Your love, I WILL NEVER TAKE FOR GRANTED. Thank you for making my birthday a beautiful experience, even away from home. I love you my forever, he added.

Read a copy of Leonards Facebook post below;

I left Home Months Ago for work, Thought I could make it Back home in Good Time for my Birthday, but as Months Became weeks and weeks into days leading up to my Birthday, it Became clear that work Schedule would not allow for the Flight Back to Lagos, Wify Said..

I gat you.. The Lord is Blessing You, Focus on Work.

Longstory Short,

Peggy Flew all the way, 48hrs to My Birthday and Pulled Off a Beautiful Suprise Birthday Dinner in a Town where she knows Almost No One.

Such Suprise. Such Sacrifice..

Babe, I want You to know That I see You, I See The Sacrifice, I see The Effort.

Your Love, I WILL NEVER TAKE FOR GRANTED.

Thank You for Making My Birthday a Beautiful Experience, Even Away from Home.

I LOVE YOU MY FOREVER  Peggy Ovire.


Piesie Esther, a Ghanaian gospel music icon, has expressed her support for Black Sherif, who won the Artiste of the Year award at the 24th Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs).

Piesie Esther, who was also a favorite for the award, stated that she had no issues with Black Sherif's winning the award, adding that she is happy for him because he has worked hard and deserves the award.

Speaking in an interview on Accra-based Asaase Radio's Between the Hours show on Monday, May 8, Piesie Esther noted that she and Black Sherif come from similar poor backgrounds and his win is equally a celebration for her.

"Black Sherif's win is just like me winning because we are from similar backgrounds; a poor background, from nowhere to somewhere. I am happy for Black Sherif because he has also worked. Im happy for him because I love him," she said.

Despite losing out on the Artiste of the Year award, Piesie Esther had a great year and went home with the Best Gospel Artiste of the Year award and her song, "Wa Y3 me Yie," won the Gospel Song of the Year award at the 2023 VGMAs held at the Accra International Conference Center's Grand Arena.

Piesie Esther also expressed her desire to collaborate with Black Sherif, stating that she hopes he would join her one day in singing gospel with his powerful voice.

"I hope Black Sherif joins me one day in singing gospel with his powerful voice," she said.

Black Sherif, who became the youngest artiste to win the Artiste of the Year award at the VGMAs, has been praised for his talent and hard work.

His hit song, "Second Sermon," which talks about the struggles of young people from poor backgrounds, has resonated with many Ghanaians and has become an anthem for the youth.
05.05.2023 LISTEN

In August 2022, the Republic of Ghana and the United Mexican States celebrated sixty-one (61) years of bilateral relations.

As part of the celebrations, both countries looked forward to strengthening their bilateral ties for the benefit of their people.

Last week, the relations between the two countries were deepened by the signing of a sister city agreement between Accra and Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco in Western Mexico to promote cultural and commercial development.

The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday, 26th April 2023 at the Accra City Hall and was attended by key stakeholders from the creative arts, culture and tourism sector as well as the trade, investment and education sectors.

In her address, the Mayor of Accra, Hon Elizabeth K. T Sackey, said the friendship between the two cities was the beginning of the collaboration in the areas of arts, culture, tourism, trade, and investment, education and a testament to the bilateral cooperation that had existed for years between Ghana and Mexico.

She was hopeful that Guadalajara and Accra would embark on impactful projects to the benefit of its residents. "I must admit, Guadalajara and Accra do not only experience lovely sunshine but are also very hospitable cities and since Accra won the title to host this great programme, the two cities have been nurturing a friendship which is being culminated in the signing of a sister city agreement today," she added.

On her part, Mrs. Lilian Rizk Rodrigues, Director of International Relations and Migrant Attention at the Municipality of Guadalajara, described the union as historic feet for the two cities citing the agreement as the first of its kind to be signed with an African city.

According to her, the decision to enter into a sister city agreement with Accra emanated from the common love of books, adding that the relationship would open a door to close connections full of shared activities in the areas of culture, education, tourism, commerce and technology.

"We are very excited about the world of possibilities that opens with the signing of this twinning agreement, which we are convinced will translate into multiple benefits for the inhabitants of both cities and will be an example to the international community of universal fraternity... We are making history and we should be proud of it...Let me reiterate that in Guadalajara you all have and will have open arms and can count on us at all times, " she said.

The Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Mexico in Ghana, Arturo Salazar expressed gratitude to the Mayor of Accra for making the twinning agreement a success assuring that it would go a long way to foster unity and bring development between the city of Accra and Guadalajara.

Guadalajara has a population of 5 million people and it is the second largest city in Mexico, which is located in the north of the American Continent. It is the birthplace of important cultural manifestations in Mexico such as Mariachi folk music, the liquor called tequila and the Mexican national sport, charreria.
Dr. Kwabena Duffuor

06.05.2023 LISTEN

The CEO of Atta Miils Institute, Samuel Koku Anyidoho has made a strong case why Dr. Kwabena Duffuor should lead the main opposition National Democratic Congress, NDC in the 2024 general elections.

He emphasised the decision by the party to change its leadership in Parliament based on economic background of former leaders should be the yardstick for the former Finance minister to led the NDC.

"If the NDC changed its leadership in Parliament because they wanted someone with economic background then it must be applied to the Presidential candidate as well. And you know, Dr. Duffuor stands way ahead of Mahama" Mr. Anyidoho told Ohene Amoako (The Flagbearer) on 'The Seat' political show on Net 2 TV.

According to the former General Secretary of the NDC, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor would be in the best position to manage the economy instead of the former president whom he described as a failure.

He was optimistic the 'Ahotor Project' by Dr. Duffuor would give opportunities to party members to be entrepreneurs with the support they will get instead of always looking up to political leaders all the time.

"It is better to teach people how to fish than making them serve you for little things they may need. The Ahotor Project will help transform many party supporters into entrepreneurs and thereby be self dependent. Mahama want the people to always run to him for help so he is not interested in investing in party members," Koku Anyidoho stressed.

He also accused the party's leadership of trying to do 'dirty' works for former President John Mahama to be the party's Flagbearer but warned of the consequences it will come with that.
The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has initiated moves to promote fuel trade and investment between Ghana and Mali.

The NPAs strategy is to continuously engage the Malian authorities and importers to achieve the objective of increasing fuel supply to the Sahelian region.

Consequently, a delegation from the NPA led by a Deputy Chief Executive, Mrs. Linda Asante, paid a four-day working visit to Mali.

The team held meetings with key stakeholders including the regulators, Office Malien des Produits Petoliers (OMAP), the Malian Customs, and the directorate in charge of trade  Direction Generale Commerce de la Consommation et de la Concurrence (DGCCC) and Malian petroleum importers operators.

Mrs Asante said the visit was part of NPAs strategy to deepen economic relations between Ghana and and Mali, and other countries in the sub-region particularly in the area of fuel trade.

It was also to discuss matters on trade facilitation and the signing of a trade cooperation agreement between Ghana and Mali, she added

The Deputy Chief Executive stated that the idea was to collaborate with key Malian institutions to develop export protocols and sign trade cooperation agreement to promote fuel trade and investments between the countries.

She also revealed that another key area of focus for the delegation was to strengthen the collaboration between NPA and its counterparts in curbing illicit fuel activities associated with the fuel trade to ensure the tax revenues of both countries are protected, and also ensure that the Ghana-Mali corridor is safeguarded to protect

the economic interests of both countries.

The delegation also paid a courtesy call on Ghanas Ambassador to Mali, H.E. Napoleon Abdulai.

Additionally, the visit presented an opportunity to initiate discussions to increase the supply of the fuels currently being supplied (Gasoil, Gasoline and Jet-A1) to Mali and promote LPG imports jnto the Malian market from Ghana.

The team established a working relationship with the embassy on how to advance the economic interests of Ghna and facilitate the signing of theTrade Cooperation Agreement.
The AA's petition is one of the five petitions filed at the Presidential Election Petition Court against Mr Tinubu's victory.

The Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja on Monday dismissed one of the five petitions challenging the victory of Bola Tinubu in the 25 February poll.

A five-member panel of the court led by Haruna Tsammani dismissed the case after the petitioner's lawyer announced its withdrawal.

It was the first among the five petitions received by the court to be called for hearing.

The court earlier held its inaugural sitting during which it assured all litigants that it would do justice to all parties to the case pending before it.

Lawyers, in response, gave their commitment to cooperate with the court.

The panel members went on a short break after the ceremonial opening of the court and retuned to begin hearing AA's case.

A confusion about the legal representative of the party ensued when the party's case was called.

Oba Maduabuchi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, first announced appearance for the AA party. Another lawyer, Malachi Umuebe, also announced appearance for the party.

Mr Maduabuchi insisted that he was the party's lawyer.

The court discountenanced Mr Umuebe since he was not the one who filed the petition before the court.

Shortly after the court recognised Mr Maduabuchi, the lawyer announced the withdrawal of the case.

The respondents' lawyers - Wole Olanipekun, SAN, representing Mr Tinubu, and Abubakar Mahmoud, SAN, representing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said they had no objection against the application for the withdrawal of the petition.

The court then dismissed the petition.

But the Action Alliance has urged the court to nullify the polls owing to alleged refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to upload the name of its actual presidential candidate - Solomon-David Okanigbuan - to its portal for the February poll.

The National Chairman of Action Alliance, Adekunle Omo-Aje, had said in January that Hamza Al-Mustapha, recognised by INEC was not the authentic presidential candidate of the party.

He spoke against the background of the leadership tussle rocking his party, which gave rise to the emergence of two presidential candidates.
The Charge d'affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Sudan in Accra Mr. Adil Awadelseed

08.05.2023 LISTEN

The Embassy of the Republic of Sudan, Accra, presents its compliments to the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of the Republic of Ghana, and all Diplomatic and Consular Missions accredited to the Republic of Ghana and has the honour to clarify to the later, the unfortunate crisis currently going on in the Republic of Sudan which started with the Rapid Support Forces(RSF) on the 15th of April,2023 in a field coup d'etat.

There have been barbaric attacks by the Rapid Support Forces on innocent civilians which has unfortunately caused so many people to lose their properties, fled their homes, wounded and injured, and many others have lost their lives. May Allah accept them as martyrs and give their families strength and patience.

The rebels who before the crisis were part of security personnel mandated and responsible for securing some vital areas in the city Khartoum, such as the Airport, Presidential Palace and some other offices of the Army headquarters, took advantage of their position to capture these offices at the start of the crisis.

As a matter of fact, the Sudanese Armed forces were able to repel the rebels from most of the locations they captured right from the early days of the coup. The rebels will never be able to take control of these strategic areas in the capital if they were not already part of the strategical security guards alongside with other Sudanese security organizations. They came from within and utilized their well-equipped personnel to cause major damage to most of the facilities in these locations.

Currently as we speak, the Sudanese military has been able to gain full control of most areas but intermittent skirmishes are taking place at pockets in which there are still remnants of rebels in Khartoum state. The Sudanese Armed forces are cautiously approaching these locations to avoid causalities among civilians. Life is normal in all the 18 states of the Republic of SUDAN except these pocket areas. The Sudanese armed forces have issued a statement welcoming the soldiers of the dissolved Rapid Support Forces in its ranks and in other security organs.

The rebels destroyed vital civilians' infrastructures at Khartoum Airport and other areas and took citizens as human shields. After losing their supply bases in Khartoum, they went into rampant campaign of looting public and private properties: Terrorizing innocent civilians ,harassing medical and humanitarian staff. Bombarding hospitals, water and power facilities: targeting humanitarian workers: taking hospitals as launching pads for their attack.

They also attacked some diplomatic missions and convoy of Qatar and American Embassy in Khartoum, as confirmed by the Secretary of State; Antony Blinken.

These barbaric crimes of the rebels warrant strong condemnation by the international community, as they represent flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law. Currently there is a declared cease fire by the military, but the rebel group(RSF) have refused to adhere to it.

The failed coup d'etat crimes caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Khartoum. The latter was aggravated by the persistent violations of the humanitarian truces by rebels. SUDAN is looking forward to cooperating with the international community in this vital area.

While discharging its constitutional mandate to mobilize the country, the government of SUDAN is determined to enhance cooperation with its regional and international partners in the field of regional peace and security, countering terrorism and combating illegal immigration and transnational organized crimes. Contributing to food security in Africa and Arab world is promising area of cooperation in the coming future.

The embassy of the Republic of Sudan avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of the Republic of Ghana and all Diplomatic and Consular Missions accredited to the Republic of Ghana, the assurances of its highest consideration.
07.05.2023 LISTEN

In political campaigns, slogans are used to reflect what political parties or candidates stand for. By virtue of this, the electorates define political parties and their candidates with their slogans.

This explains why slogans greatly contribute to the victories or other wise of parties in elections. In Ghana for instance, historians are of the view that the "Self Government Now" of the Convention People's Party (CPP) was more appealing to the voters than the United Gold Coast Convention's (UGCC) "Self Government within the shortest possible time."

Dr Kwame Nrumah's instructive demand for independence through his clear slogan made the people to see him as a leader who was ready for what he was fighting for. On the other hand, the UGCC and their leaders were considered as unserious people who were not prepared for independence, hence their vague slogan.

Having therefore, subjected Mr Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen's "Aduru woso" slogan to intellectual scrutiny, I find it very repulsive and unappealing to the youth who usually identify themselves with either the National Democratic Congress (NDC) or the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The Aduru woso gospel paints the NPP as a party that places more premium on old folks than the talented and competent young ones who are now entering politics. What is more dangerous is the fact that the leading members of the Alan Kyerematen's campaign team have literarily passed comments to suggest that the competent Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is too new to the party to become its leader.

There is no way, today's Ghanaian youth will allow themselves to be used by political parties to promote the political interest of a certain class against their own class. They will therefore shun the NPP if it elects Mr Kyerematen as its flagbearer.

Also, the propaganda machinery of the NDC will definitely whip up the sentiments of the ambitious youth against the NPP if Mr Kyerematen wins the flagbearer race. It will be easy for the youth to fall for their propaganda because nobody would want to be part of a group that promotes a certain class.

It is also important to note that Dr Bawumia is more appealing to the youth than Mr Kyerematen. Therefore, choosing the latter over the former is also a rejection of the Ghanaian youth who see themselves more in Dr Bawumia than Mr Kyerematen.

Conclusively, the NPP will be signing their own electoral death warrant, if they endorse Mr Alan Kyerematen's Aduru woso slogan because that will in turn mean rejection of the youth who would want to join political parties that will give them hope of rising to the pinnacle.

The author is an essayist and a social commentator.

By Bala Ali
Thousands of people joined in coronation parties and lunches across Britain on Sunday as part of ongoing celebrations to mark the crowning of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Members of the royal family greeted royal revellers at events in Windsor ahead of a star-studded coronation concert and light show in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

In a statement issued by Buckingham Palace, the King and Queen said they had been deeply touched by the show of public support.

For some of the older generation at a street bash in Richmond upon Thames, in west London, it was their second time watching a British monarch ascend the throne.

'Magical'

Actress Diana Payan, 88, recounts her memory watching Queen Elizabeth's coronation  the first to be televised and broadcast live  back in 1953.

I was about to leave drama school at that time and we had the day off because it was the coronation, Payan tells RFI.

At 17 or 18 you don't care much about the royal family, but it was magical.

We did have a television  This is the funny part to me: It seemed spectacular and yet I know it was on a tiny black and white screen.

Another local resident, 91-year-old Elizabeth Bowden, said she enjoyed being able to see King Charles up close on the television as he was crowned  which wasn't quite the case with his mother.

It was much better because you could see what was going on. He (Charles) came and touched her (Camilla's) face. They held hands together, and walked down the aisle together, Bowden says.

They didn't do that before. The man (Prince Philip) went first and the Queen was behind him.

While polls show the royal family is losing its relevance in modern Britain, almost half the population said they intended to take part in coronation-related celebrations over the weekend and bank holiday Monday.
07.05.2023 LISTEN

The police are making inroads in tracking the killers of a manager of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) following the arrest of two suspects linked to the murder.

The latest development in connection with the murder case of Josephine Asante Tandoh, a senior staff member GPHA has it that two prime suspects have been arrested lately.

The suspects, Richard Kwabena Kwakye, alias Kwabena Boateng, 37-year-old former GPHA driver, and Dominic Owusu, a 51-year-old taxi driver, were apprehended after fleeing to Burkina Faso following the incident on January 13, 2019.

Per information gathered by DGN Online from sources within the police, the suspects after laying ambush for the victim around her residence at block E of EMEF Estate on the Afienya road where she resided together with her husband and their 12-year son.

The victim had attended a get-together party organised by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority at the senior staff club house at Tema Community Six and returning home, when the suspects followed her vehicle into the compound and entered her apartment before stabbing and strangling her to death.

At about 03:30am that Sunday, the house boy and the deceased's son heard some unusual sound on the compound and therefore conducted a search but did not find anything. They therefore retired to bed.

However, the house boy claimed he saw a male figure wearing a black t-shirt and a jeans running through the living room and escaped through the main gate.

At about 08:30am on Sunday, January 13, 2019, the house boy who was later arrested and the son tried opening Mrs Asante's door but found it locked and therefore called the driver.

The driver of the victim, according to the police, found the keys to the house at the entrance of the gate when he went there upon receiving the call and used same to open the deceased's door and found her in a pool of blood lying supine.

Investigators who were assigned to the case after the complaint was lodged, collected semen found in her, finger prints and other evidence at the scene.

Richard Kwabena Kwakye has since confessed to the crime and named Dominic Owusu as his accomplice, but the latter has denied any involvement.

Investigations are still ongoing to determine the motive behind the murder, leaving GPHA stunned and saddened by the loss of one of their valuable employees, the Marketing and Public Relations Manager of the Authority.

This new development in the matter which has traveled over 3 years, is said to have a link with a top hierarchy of the company as the prime suspect purportedly mentioned.

Meanwhile, the new suspects have been arraigned and remanded by a Tema District Court to assist with further investigations as police press on to ascertain the rationale behind the heinous crime.

They have been charged with conspiracy to commit murder contrary to section 23(1) and 40 of the criminal offences act 1960 (Act 29) and murder contrary to section 46 of the criminal offences act 1960 (Act 29).

This come after the two persons who were earlier standing trial when the incident occurred were discharged by the court.

When the case was called on Monday, the Prosecution informed the Tema District Court that they were withdrawing the charges leveled against the previous accused persons based on advice from the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.

According to prosecution, the Court should therefore, discharge the accused persons, namely Christian Agyei, 22, House boy and Amos Apraku, driver of the deceased who were facing committal proceedings.

While the accused persons were leaving the court room, the Police on the other hand took positions at the court premises and escorted the accused persons into a waiting vehicle to the Police headquarters.

Daily Guide
07.05.2023 LISTEN

A man has inflicted machete wounds on his father's tenant and the victim's two children, including a toddler, Samuel Amo, who was three months away from being two years, and died from the attack.

The tenant, Mr Obed Asamoah, and his 19-year-old daughter, Bridget Owusu, who both survived the brutal attack, are battling for their lives at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital after sustaining life-threatening injuries.

The murderous butchery happened at Adankwame in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region on Friday, 5 May 2023.

The suspect, identified only as Emmanuel, was arrested by the police after fleeing into hiding.

The attack happened during an altercation between the tenant, who was holding his now-deceased son at the time, and the landlord's son, who tried stopping the man from entering his room with reason that rent had expired since 1 May 2023.

After butchering the father and son, the assailant turned his machete on the tenant's daughter, who had rushed to the rescue of his dad and little brother, who were bleeding from the deadly machete slashes.

All three victims were rushed to the same hospital but the little boy was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The wife and mother of the victims, Janet Owusu, told journalists that as the suspect accosted his husband and son with the machete, she quickly ran out to raise an alarm amidst shouts for help.

She revealed that the suspect had been reported to the police before by his mother but was released on bail not long before the incident.

Source: classfmonline.com
The Ghana Mineworkers Union of the Trades Union Congress (Ghana) has accused Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited Company of a lack of respect for the National Labour Commission and regulatory institutions in the country.

Last Week, Sunon Asogli issued a press release to address matters relating to unionisation at the company and the sacking of three employees.

In the release, the company said the allegations by GMWU and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) that it is against unionisation of workers are false.

Sunon Asogli is not and has never been against unionization. Indeed, the company is aware of the right of our employees under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and the Labour Act, 2003 (Act 651), to join a union. The issue has been about the procedure and approach adopted by the Ghana Mine Workers Union (GMWU or the Union), part of the release from the company said.

The release further explained, It has been our position right from the onset when the Union wrote to us, that we cannot enter into an agreement or negotiate with people we do not know, and that when the Labour Law talks about THE WORKER it is referring to a particular individual. We, therefore, requested that the Union should furnish us with the list of workers who had applied to join the Union, but for close to two years, the Union refused.

Sunon Asogli also insisted that it believes in doing things in an orderly manner, and it is the respect for due process that has sustained the Company over the years.

Reacting to the release, the Ghana Mineworkers Union said it is amazed by the depth of factual inaccuracies, misrepresentations and fabrications in the statement.

The Union argued that since the unionisation matter came up, the posture of Sunon Asogli has always been one that is a law onto itself.

It is important to note that at all material time, the posturing of the management of Sunon Asogli has been one that is a law unto itself. They do not respect or comply with decisions of the National Labour Commission and regulatory institutions, and would arrogate to itself powers of statutory bodies that they do not have, the GMWU release dated May 7 said.

The release adds that it is shameful that Sunon Asogli cites section 131 of the Labour Act and goes on to try and skew the facts in order to impugn the Ghana Mineworkers Union and question the professionalism of its leadership.

It explains that what the company deliberately failed to do is to let the public know that the Ghana Mineworkers Union did not attempt or burst into the company in an attempt to negotiate for the interest of workers.

On the termination of contract of three Sunon Asogli employees, GMWU strongly believes that it is a complete injustice characterised by an anti-union employer whose sole agenda is to prevent trade unions from operating at the workplace.

The decision of the company to terminate the employment of three local union leaders was not only premeditated, ill-conceived and borne out of its hatred for unions, it has always been part of a grand scheme by the company right from the outset of the unionization to victimize, intimidate and dismiss any worker(s) found to be associated with the union in order to truncate the unionization process and prevent the union from coming into being, the Ghana Mineworkers Union release shared.

The Ghana Mineworkers Union in its release emphasises that it has never conducted itself unlawfully throughout the unionisation process and there is ample evidence to that effect.

The union says it expects Sunon Asogli to be law-abiding by respecting the rights of Ghanaian workers to form and join unions of their choice as well as the rights of trade unions to freely operate at the workplace.

Read the full release below:

GHANA MINEWORKERS UNION OF THE TRADES UNION CONGRESS (GHANA)

PRESS STATEMENT

___________________________________________________________________________

RESPONSE TO SUNON ASOGLIS POSITION ON MATTERS RELATING TO UNIONIZATION DATED MAY 4, 2023 BY THE GHANA MINEWORKERS UNION OF THE TRADES UNION CONGRESS (GHANA)

The attention of the Ghana Mineworkers Union (GMWU) of TUC(Ghana) has been drawn to a press statement issued on May 4, 2023 by Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited captioned Sunon Asoglis Position on Matters Relating to Unionization.

Ghana Mineworkers Union would like to state that it is not only surprised by the absolute duplicity of the company right from the outset of the unionization process, it is also amazed by the depth of factual inaccuracies, misrepresentations and fabrications in the statement.

Ghana Mineworkers Union and by extension the TUC, would like to use this opportunity to correct some factual inaccuracies, misrepresentations and fabrications put out there by the company.

As we stated in our press statement of March 3, 2023 captioned Sunon Asogli Workers Unionization: Disregard for the Fundamental Rights of Workers, Company Threats, Interference, Unfair Termination and Disrespect to National Institutions, it is important to reiterate that the Ghana Mineworkers Union and the workers of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited went through the necessary legal processes to acquire a Collective Bargaining Certificate that empowers the Union to represent and negotiate with the Company on behalf of the workers. At every material time during the unionization process, the Ghana Mineworkers Union did not only adopt the procedure and approach required by the law, it worked collaboratively with regulatory institutions of the state including the Labour Department of Ghana.

It was, therefore, not surprising that when the same claims of the company bordering on the list of the workers and the Collective Bargaining Certificate ended up, at the National Labour Commission, the Commission on two occasions Directed and Ruled that managements demand for the list of the unionized workers did not arise at that stage of the unionization process and that the Certificate was properly and legally acquired so the Company should comply and enter negotiations with the Union. The Commission did not end there, it also made it clear to Sunon Asogli that it was frustrating the unionization process and violating the rights of the workers to form and join trade unions of their choice, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, the Labour Act and ILO Conventions 87 and 98.

Instead of respecting the orders and directives of the National Labour Commission, the Company and its lawyers, in their usual belligerent and anti-union fashion, disregarded the decisions of the Commission with impunity and rather resorted to acts of abuse, intimidation and victimization of workers for the simple decision taken by these workers to join a union of their choice and to freely exercise their fundamental rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining.

It is shameful that the company cites section 131 of the Labour Act and goes on to try and skew the facts in order to impugn the Ghana Mineworkers Union and question the professionalism of its leadership. What the company deliberately failed to do is to let the public know that the Ghana Mineworkers Union did not attempt or burst into the company. The Ghana Mineworkers Union, as a law-abiding trade union organization, with over seventy years of experience in industrial relations relied on section 129 of the same Labour Act, the very law the company referenced, and wrote on three (3) different occasions to the company requesting to meet its members but the company blatantly refused because the Management of the company has been hell-bent on frustrating unionization process from the outset and, therefore, would not respect the rights of workers and trade unions to operate at the workplace.

The meeting of February 17, 2023 the company referred to in its statement was strictly at the instance of the Ghana Mineworkers Union, it took place in a public space close to the companys gate and all the workers who stopped by to listen to us were off-duty. The right of the Union to meet its members, in accordance with section 129 of the Labour Act, was refused three times and the Union decided to meet its members after close of work in a public space close to the companys premises and that cannot be described as an unlawful industrial action. In fact, the decision of the company to turn down the Unions request to meet its members, despite several calls to management, has always been part of the companys grand scheme and tactics to frustrate the unionization process.

Again, it is very difficult to understand why the company prides itself as one that does things in an orderly manner and goes on to cite the existence of two unions (i.e., an enterprise-based union and the Ghana Mineworkers Union) as an indication of its respect for due process and respect for the rights of workers to join or form a union. It is important to state for the records that the purported enterprise-based union which includes Chinese nationals was hurriedly formed by the management of the company only a few weeks ago as part of its preparations to put out its press statement of 4th May 2023 in order to hide behind that and present itself in a good light as a law-abiding organization that respects the rights of workers.

It is important to note that at all material time, the posturing of the management of Sunon Asogli has been one that is a law unto itself. They do not respect or comply with decisions of the National Labour Commission and regulatory institutions, and would arrogate to itself powers of statutory bodies that they do not have. It is, therefore, not surprising that once again, the company in its press statement of 4th May 2023 arrogates to itself the powers of a Chief Labour Officer in clear contravention of section 99(4) of the Labour Act and Regulation 10 of LI 1833 to declare the majority for its sponsored union and minority for the Ghana Mineworkers Union. Of course, unless Sunon Asogli acted in ignorance or is seeking to mislead the public, Sunon Asogli knows for a fact that it has absolutely no locus whatsoever to conduct verification and to declare which union is the majority or the minority, assuming the purported company-sponsored union/association was anything to go by.

On the termination of the three local union leaders, we want to remind the company that labour is not a commodity that you buy off the shelve, use and dump at free will without any consequences. We want to reiterate that Sunon Asogli did not only disrespect and disregard the National Labour Commissions directive of March 1, 2023 to both parties to stay all ongoing and/or any intended action(s) intended strike by the Complainant Union, the issuance of queries and the request for responses to same by the Respondent Management, including any other action(s) that may be directly or indirectly related to the issue(s) in dispute, but the company proceeded against the Commissions directive to wrongfully terminate the appointments of the three (3) union leaders without notice and without recourse to due processes and procedures enshrined in the Employees General Conditions of Service just because these innocent brothers decided to join a trade union and were elected by their fellow workers at the enterprise level to lead them.

The inconsistency here is that on one hand, Sunon Asogli claims to be law-abiding and respects the rights of workers but on the other hand the same company supplants the General Conditions of Service that regulate the employment relationship between the company and its employees, disregards its own internal processes and procedures, and proceeds to dismiss its employees some of whom have worked for the company for over ten years in such a careless manner under the guise that an employment contract is not servitude when the General Conditions of Service provides clear procedures on how you arrive at a decision to either terminate or dismiss a worker. After all these naked abuses, Sunon Asogli still has the courage to turn around and question GMWUs procedure and approach which by all standards remain legitimate.

We want to reiterate that the Local Union Chairperson, Secretary and Assistant Secretary have not committed a crime and they have not broken any company rules. The only crime they have committed, according to the Management of Sunon Asogli, is that they have decided to join a trade union of their choice to protect their social and economic interests, in accordance with the Constitution of Ghana, the Labour Act 2003 (Act 651) and International Labour Organizations Conventions 87 and 98 which have been ratified by Ghana.

This is a complete injustice and it is characteristic of an anti-union employer whose sole agenda is to prevent trade unions from operating at the workplace. The decision of the company to terminate the employment of three local union leaders was not only premeditated, ill-conceived and borne out of its hatred for unions, it has always been part of a grand scheme by the company right from the outset of the unionization to victimize, intimidate and dismiss any worker(s) found to be associated with the union in order to truncate the unionization process and prevent the union from coming into being.

It is, therefore, not surprising that immediately after the list of unionized workers was submitted to Sunon Asogli, not only were the three local union leaders immediately dismissed, the rest of the unionized workers are being subjected to various acts of intimidation, victimization and abuse by the Management of the company. Local union executives have been forcefully asked to either rescind their decision to remain in the union or face termination of employment, all team leaders who have opted to join the union have been relieved of their duties and taken off company platforms where production-related matters are discussed, all unionized employees are being asked to quit the union so that their salaries can be increased in return, unionized workers are being transferred from their departments to other departments where they have not been trained to work, among others. Now we know why management of the company was desperately demanding the list of unionized workers for the Union.

The TUC, the umbrella body of trade unions in Ghana led by its Secretary General, is fully apprised of the issues between GMWU and Sunon Asogli contrary to the unguarded and derogatory claims made by the company in its press statement of 4th May 2023 against the TUC. Indeed, it is against this background that the TUC Secretary General accepted to be part of a team constituted by the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations to help deal with the matter. On 24th April 2023 when the team met both parties, the leadership of GMWU and management of Sunon Asogli, a number of issues were discussed which required Sunon Asogli to have reverted to the Minister and his team on 25th April 2023. Till date, Sunon Asogli has not reverted with feedback on the issues discussed and there is no indication that it would revert with any such feedback. Indeed, the team led by the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations have so far not been able to make any meaningful progress because of the companys lacklustre attitude towards a peaceful and amicable resolution of the impasse.

TUC is open and committed to seeking an amicable settlement of the matter, but it is important to state that the actions by Sunon Asogli remain unfair and unjust, no matter how the company chooses to twist and spin the facts. The pronouncements and actions by the TUC Secretary General and the TUC are factual and unadulterated and cannot be laced with falsehood and distortions as the company choses to describe it. Indeed, the members of the public are decerning and should be able to determine whether the GMWU and by extension TUC is law-abiding and one that stands up to bullies or Sunon Asogli is anti-union, an oppressor and one that disrespects workers rights.

We want to state that the Ghana Mineworkers Union has never conducted itself unlawfully throughout this unionization process and there is ample evidence to that effect. Indeed, the Ghana Mineworkers Union, as a law-abiding organization, has not only complied with the laws of Ghana, it has cooperated and collaborated with the institutions of state throughout the unionization process. We want to state categorically that the Ghana Mineworkers Union and the TUC do not and will not tolerate employers who are out there to suppress and oppress the rights and liberties of workers. Therefore, if by this resolve, Sunon Asogli finds the Ghana Mineworkers Union as arrogant, aggressive and uncompromising, that is unfortunate. The Ghana Mineworkers Union and the TUC will continue to respect the rights of Sunon Asogli as an employer. Similarly, we expect Sunon Asogli to be law-abiding by respecting the rights of Ghanaian workers to form and join unions of their choice as well as the rights of trade unions to freely operate at the workplace.

Long Live the Ghana Mineworkers Union

Long Live the Trades Union Congress (Ghana)

Long Live International Workers Solidarity

Long Live the Republic of Ghana

ACCRA, 7TH MAY 2023
08.05.2023 LISTEN

Dr. Mrs. Barbara Ayesha Anawana Karbo, Head of the Accident and Emergency Department at the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH), has urged the people not to conceal their illnesses from their families, friends, and relatives, as doing so can save their lives during times of crisis.

She expressed concern that some people, particularly men, refuse to disclose their ailments and medication information to their families, spouses, and children, making it difficult for medical officials to provide accurate information in times of emergency.

Dr. Mrs. Karbo stated at the weekly "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility," an initiative of the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office aimed at promoting health-related communication and providing a platform for health information dissemination in order to influence personal health choices through improved health literacy.

The Tema Regional Office of the Ghana News Agency created the public health advocacy platform "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" to research the aspects of four health communication approaches: informing, instructing, persuading, and urging.

Dr. Mrs. Karbo, an Accident and Emergency Specialist, gave a presentation on "First Aid at Home and Basic Life Support." She went on to say that when this happens, clinicians must rely on educated guesses rather than examining a specific scenario and providing timely treatment.

For example, she stated that asthmatic patients must inform their close friends, relatives, and colleagues where their inhalers are and what to do for them during an attack, and that a diabetic patient could be saved by a colleague who knew that anything containing sugar could be given to him when he showed signs of low sugar to save his life.

Dr. Mrs. Karbo also urged that patients teach everyone around them about their condition's safety mechanisms, explaining that if they were the only ones with the knowledge, it would be useless to them when they were in a position of aid and couldn't practice what they knew.

She also urged that all businesses and schools carry first aid boxes with the necessary items to provide first aid care before rushing to the hospital.

She stated that the first aid box should be given to a single individual to ensure accountability and upkeep of the supplies to ensure their use whenever needed.

She recommended that an office first aid kit include a glucometer, a thermometer, and diarrhea medicine, as well as anti-malaria medication, plaster, gauze, bandages, and some pain relievers, particularly paracetamol, and ibuprofen.

The glucometer would help diabetic workers, while the diarrhea would help prevent the loss of excess water from the body as the body turned to lose its water during such conditions, forcing it to take the water contained in the blood, which could lead to other emergencies, according to the Accident and Emergency Specialist.

Dr. Mrs. Karbo stated that first aid boxes for schools must also include suppository and syrup paracetamol, different types of thermometers, plaster, gauze, and bandages and that those in charge of the first aid box must be trained and given a chart, particularly on what to look for when checking the temperature of the children.

"GNA-Tema Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" according to Mr. Francis Ameyibor, Tema Regional Manager of Ghana News Agency, is a public health advocacy platform meant to investigate the four approaches of health communication: informing, teaching, persuading, and encouraging.

Mr Ameyibor stated that the GNA platform, through the weekly health dialogue forum, acts as a great communication channel for medical practitioners to educate the public about healthy practices and other general health concerns.

CDA Consult II Contributor
Mr. Samuel Atuahene Antwi, Nutritionist at the Tema Metropolitan Health Directorate, has urged mothers and carers of toddlers to continue sending children for "weighing" even when they reach the age of two.

Mr. Antwi stated that, despite the fact that such children were still required to be seen at the clinics for essential care and supervision every six months until they reached the age of five, mothers and carers abruptly stopped taking the immunizations.

He gave the advice during a health promotion dialogue called "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility," which was organized by the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office to promote health-related communication and provide a platform for health information dissemination in order to influence personal health choices through improved health literacy.

The Tema Regional Office of the Ghana News Agency created the public health advocacy platform "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" to research the aspects of four health communication approaches: informing, instructing, persuading, and urging.

Mr. Antwi stated that regular visits to child welfare centers assist health experts in picking up and detecting various flaws in children for early interventions, stating that problems are particularly related to developmental stages such as talking, walking, and others.

He went on to say that the 'weighing' also aids in growth monitoring and promotion because the child's weight is measured and plotted on a gender-appropriate graph to check for normal growth or any deviations.

The Tema Metro Nutritionist criticized the actions of some mothers who bring their children to the welfare clinic, adding that "some mothers come appearing too busy and only want the child to be measured quickly for them to leave."

He reminded them that the clinic was not only for weighing but also for advising on proper child care, as the children's future is dependent on the kind of care they receive as children.

He also stated that mothers are trained on how to properly feed their children, both during the exclusive breastfeeding period and during complementary feeding, and that family planning services, food demonstrations, hygiene, mosquito net use, and birth certificate registration are all available at the child welfare clinics.

Mr. Antwi stated once more that the youngsters receive vitamin A supplements as well as other immunizations to assist avoid illness and infant mortality.

BCG, Hepatitis B, yellow fever, measles-rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, influenza, rotavirus, polio, and meningitis A are among the 13 vaccines children receive by the age of two.

"GNA-Tema Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" is a public health advocacy platform designed to examine the four techniques of health communication: informing, teaching, persuading, and encouraging according to Mr. Francis Ameyibor, Tema Regional Manager of Ghana News Agency.

According to Mr. Ameyibor, the GNA platform serves as a fantastic communication route for medical practitioners to educate the public about healthy practices and other general health concerns through the weekly health conversation forum.

CDA Consult II Contributor
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Tema Regional Command has joined the rest of the globe in commemorating their lost heroes by honouring 2023 International Firefighters Day.

The event, which took place on the forecourt of the GNFS's Tema Regional Office, was the culmination of a week-long campaign in the region to raise awareness about the fundamentals of fire and the work of firefighters.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer I (ACFO1) Madam Doris Lamptey, the GNFS Tema Regional Commander who sponsored the occasion, noted that International Firefighters' Day dates back to 1999 when members of the fire service were killed in the line of duty.

ACFOI Lamptey went on to say that the purpose behind this year's theme, "Recognising the sacrifices of firefighters and our fallen heroes," was to memorialise the Ghanaian firefighters who died in the previous year.

"And to thank all of the country's firefighting officers for making the ultimate sacrifice to save lives," she continued.

According to the Regional Commander, the sounding of sirens and the lowering of flags at 12:00 p.m. during the occasion was a universal practice to symbolize unity among all firemen worldwide.

She, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of the public paying attention to the educational exercises and learning about fire prevention practices.

According to ACFOI Lamptey, the problem with emergency phone lines persists because people do not pay attention to them, which is critical.

She emphasized that residents of Tema Regional should phone the fire service control room at 0299340631 if they cannot reach national emergency number 122 or fire service line 192.

Also emphasizing that gas cylinders should not be restricted to a limited space such as a room, but should be placed outside so that if there is a leak, the air will blow it away, emphasizing that in a contained space where ventilation cannot escape rapidly, even the smallest kindling of fire can inflict harm.

Furthermore, the Ghana National Fire Service made every effort to reduce fire incidences in the country.

CDA Consult II Contributor
The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), strategic business stakeholders, in partnership with organised labour, are mobilising to protest the imposition of the three additional levies.

Organisational Labour and other stakeholders will protest the three new taxes because "companies, the manufacturing sector, importers and exporters, traders' unions, and the consuming public are overburdened by the government's over-taxation policy," according to Mr. Abraham Koomson, GFL Secretary General.

According to the GFL Secretary General, the three new taxes imposed by the governmentthe Excise Duty Amendment Act, the Growth Sustainability Levy Act, and the Income Tax Amendment Actare a wake-up call to labour unions to mobilise workers and express massive discontent through agitations, demonstrations, and industrial action.

Mr. Koomson noted on the Ghana News Agency Industrial News Hub platform in Tema that excessive taxes have a big effect on hobbling enterprises and driving industries out of production.

In order to convey the seriousness of the situation to the government, he said that there must be a sense of unity among labour unions with a constant lamentation on disastrous economic policies in order for the government to listen to the plights of workers.

"This time, we need the massive mobilisation of workers to hit the streets consistently until the government hears the plight of factories and ordinary citizens who face self-inflicted economic hardship on a daily basis," he stated.

Mr. Koomson emphasised that mobilisation is the first step in a series of measures to put pressure on the government over its over-taxation policy and that if there is no consistent determined action, the administration would ignore the plight of workers.

According to Mr. Koomson, the three additional levies will bankrupt the few remaining industries and firms, leaving the bulk of people unemployed.

He suggested that the government prioritise job creation over taxation since "the targeted revenue to be accumulated may not be achieved if businesses are overburdened with taxes."

He stated that some businesses had ceased operations in order to examine market trends and consumer reactions to the increased taxes.

Development and Sustainability According to the government, the levy is meant to increase income in order to promote economic growth and fiscal sustainability.

The levy is charged on the earnings before taxes of corporations and institutions, as well as on production in the case of mining and upstream oil and gas industries.

The Income Tax Act, 2015 (Act 896) is being amended to adjust the income tax rates for individuals and add a new income tax band, as well as to implement a withholding tax rate on the realisation of assets and obligations, as well as lottery wins.

The Excise Duty Act, 2014 (Act 878) intends to revise excise duty rates for cigarettes and other tobacco goods in order to comply with the Protocols of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and generate revenue to counteract the negative effects of these excisable commodities.

In order to increase revenue, it also proposes to hike excise duty on wine, malt drinks and spirits, as well as levy excise duty on sweetened beverages, electronic cigarettes and electronic liquids.

Mr. Francis Ameyibor, Ghana News Agency's Tema Regional Manager, also urged the media to educate the public on the current economic crisis, its overall impact and the efforts of the government and stakeholders to overcome it.

He also urged the media to provide crucial input to the government, stating that "the media must strengthen its two-way communication powerfeeding the people with vital government policies and explaining their implications, as well as providing feedback to the government on the impact of the policies."

CDA Consult II Contributor
press release

The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan to discuss the situation in Sudan.

Secretary Blinken expressed the United States gratitude for Saudi Arabias invaluable assistance in facilitating the safe arrival in Jeddah of U.S. citizens and their family members departing Sudan.

The Secretary and the Foreign Minister affirmed their countries intensive collaboration on diplomatic work to bring about an end to the fighting in Sudan.

The Secretary also emphasized his commitment to advancing an inclusive, Yemeni-led political process that empowers Yemenis to shape a brighter future for their country.

They discussed common regional and global priorities, including cooperation under the auspices of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.
Ahead of the primaries of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), former President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated calls for unity among party supporters.

The opposition NDC is expected to hold its presidential and parliamentary elections on Saturday, May 13 which will see the party elect parliamentary candidates and a flagbearer to contest on the party's ticket in the 2024 general elections.

Mr. John Dramani Mahama who is seeking to be re-elected on the ticket of the NDC made these comments at Bimbilla as part of his campaign tour of the Northern Region.

Everyone has his supporters, theres no point saying this person supported the winning team, so we will stay aside. All of us are NDC, lets support each other after the primaries, Mr. Mahama advised.

John Mahama who is a one-term former president is seeking to return to power after he was defeated by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in the 2016 and 2020 general elections.

Citi Newsroom
Sudan's warring parties were continuing face-to-face talks on Monday in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah as international mediators pressed to end a conflict that has left nearly 600 people dead forced thousands to flee the country.

The US-Saudi initiative is the first serious attempt to end fighting between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that has turned parts of the Sudanese capital Khartoum into war zones and derailed an internationally backed plan to usher in civilian rule following years of unrest and uprisings.

The conflict erupted on 15 April between the army of Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti.

Fighting has continued through several ceasefires. Mediators want the clashes to stop to permit the safe passage of humanitarian aid. They also want the sides to allow the restoration of essential services such as hospitals.

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Saudi Arabia has had close ties to Burhan and Hemedti, both of whom sent troops to help the Saudi-led coalition in its war against the Houthi group in Yemen.

The kingdom is also focused on security in the Red Sea  which it shares with Sudan  and which has been part of a vast economic plan for tourism called Saudi Vision 2030 and a strategic shipping lane for its oil exports.

Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed a plan on Friday for the warring parties to reduce tensions, Saudi officials said.
Flagbearer hopeful of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Kwabena Duffuor has rubbished claims that he is being sponsored by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Addressing the partys delegates in Adansi Asokwa Constituency in the Ashanti region as part of his four days campaign in the region, the former Governor of the Bank of Ghana accused the NPP government of destroying his banks and collapsing many of his businesses.

Dr. Duffuor urged party followers to be assured that he will never allow himself to be used by the ruling party against his own party.

I funded the NDC so Im NDC and nothing can change my love for NDC. The NPP destroyed my banks and tried to collapse every business under my control. I want to tell you that the NPP has hurt me more than any other member of the party.

The NPP can never use me to destroy the NDC. My main aim is to return NDC to power to make Ghana better, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor argued.

The businessman and politician is confident about his chances of becoming the new flagbearer of the NDC.

With him as flagbearer, he believes that the opposition party will win the 2024 general elections.
A 21-year-old final year student at Hemang Technical Institute, David Nkrumah, popularly known as Kweku Nkrumah, was violently attacked for allegedly stealing Gh5 by a 45-year-old man named Salinko in Jukwa Wawase, located in the Twifu Hemang Lower Denkyira District of the Central Region.

The incident happened on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at 8:00am.

According to Okogyeaman Seidu Abdul Ganiu from Twifo Praso-based Sweet FM, who shared the details with Modernghana news, Salinko had attended a wake keeping in Janka Bo on the Cape Coast Road.

On his way back, Salinko boarded a taxi some persons were teaching Kweku Nkrumah how to drive.

Salinko accused Kweku Nkrumah of stealing his GH5 after discovering it was missing. This led to a heated exchange between the two.

On the morning of Sunday, May 7, Salinko reportedly armed himself with a sharp cutlass and began looking for Nkrumah with the intention of inflicting harm.

He targeted Nkrumah's head, but the young man managed to block with his hand, resulting in a deep cut that severed his hand.

Following the attack, Salinko has filed a case against six young men, claiming they assaulted him in Jukwa Wawase.

The police are currently investigating the matter.

Meanwhile, the victim, Kweku Nkrumah, is receiving treatment at Twifu Atti Morkwa District Hospital.

The shocking incident has left the community in distress, as a promising young student's life was nearly ended.
Former member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Stephen Atubiga has alleged that some party stalwarts in the Northern part of Ghana, including former Minority Leader, Haruna Idrisu, are unhappy with former President John Dramani Mahama's bid to lead the party again in the 2024 general elections.

This comes after Mahama debunked claims that he is at loggerheads with some people in the Northern region. He mentioned Haruna Iddrisu as an example of someone he is still at peace with, adding that people like him are the ones to take over from him after he finishes his tenure.

However, in a Facebook post on Monday, May 8, Mr. Atubiga challenged Mahama's claim, stating that Haruna Iddrisu is never at peace with him.

He pointed out the Tamale South legislator's body language and posture in a video of the event.

Atubiga added that the pain in Haruna Iddrisu and others is real and showing all over their faces anytime they appear in public.

Guys, Is what JDM is Saying in this video, really Persuading Haruna Idrisu? Looking At Haruna Iddrisu's body language and posture he is being real to himself.

How and why does JDM think he has no problems with any Northener? he queried.

Stressing, Well, you can tell in the video, the leadership is not happy and not buying into that talk.

How can JDM be saying he has no problems? This political talk will not work for him. The pain in my brother Haruna and co is real showing all over their first face.

Read full post below:

Guys, Is what JDM is Saying in this video, really Persuading Haruna Idrisu?

Looking At Haruna Iddrisu's body language and posture he is being real to himself.

How and why does JDM think he has no problems with any Northener?

Well, you can tell in the video, the leadership is not happy and not buying into that talk.

How can JDM be saying he has no problems? This political talk will not work for him.

The pain in my brother Haruna and co is real showing all over their first face.

Who is deceiving who?

When your mother is dead and you say she is sleeping, it's a matter of time before you will ask for help, for her burial.
Ghanas May Day is a public holiday honouring workers and their contribution to the countrys development. Central Region marked the occasion by holding a unique programme of celebratory events for the community at Saltpond Victoria Park in the Mfantseman Municipality.

Lithium exploration and development company Atlantic Lithium Ltd. was a proud headline sponsor of the event, demonstrating its strong commitment to local community development through employment. Atlantic Lithium is advancing the Ewoyaa Project, a significant lithium spodumene concentrate discovery on track to become Ghanas first lithium-producing mine. Over 95% of the companys employees are Ghanaian; many of which are from the Central Region.

The theme of Central Regions 2023 May Day celebration was Protecting Incomes and Pensions in an Era of Economic Crises: Our Responsibility, which aimed to encourage an open discussion between local stakeholders and government on the growing contribution of the mining sector to the regions development.

Atlantic Lithium is already one of the leading taxpayers and employers in the Central Region, however, the company expects to deliver many more long-standing benefits to the region as it advances the Ewoyaa Project towards production. It hopes to employ over 300 staff, mainly locals, and has stated its intention to establish a community development fund to allocate a portion of profits generated from the project to regional development initiatives.

In attendance at the event was the Central Regional Minister, Hon. Justina Marigold Assan and leaders of the Mfantseman Municipal Assembly, including the Chief Executive, Hon. Ike Lord Innu, Minister of Parliament, Hon. Ophelia Mensah Hayford and Francis Odoom, Chairman of the occasion and Regional Chairman of the Trades Unions Congress, who praised Atlantic Lithium for playing its part in developing local skills and reducing unemployment in the region.

The Municipality sees a strong role for Atlantic Lithium to further contribute to local content and is looking forward to the Government bodies and the Minerals Commission to granting the mining lease Atlantic Lithium requires to move the project forward. A large contingent of Atlantic Lithium staff attended the event along with other workers from the region.

Mr. Abdul Razak, Atlantic Lithiums In-Country Manager for Ghana, has made a firm commitment to focus on hiring locally and investing in regional development. In an interview with News Ghana he explained Employing and developing our workforce in the Central Region is important to us for several reasons.

Firstly, salaries paid to workers are likely to be spent within the community, thereby benefitting not only their families but also local businesses. Secondly, it enables us build a deeper understanding and respect for local customs, values and traditions throughout our company; an ethos that is of great importance to us.

Finally, as we are move forward to develop Ghanas first lithium mine, retaining our skilled workforce is key to the growth of the company. Maintaining a happy and productive workforce, while assisting in the improvement of the local economy, therefore aligns Atlantic Lithium with the goals of the leaders of the local community and Government bodies. Together, these put us in the best position to deliver a successful project and bring about positive change for the region.
Her Excellency Samira Bawumia(centre) with a wheelchair recipient, Sister Elizabeth Newman on her left, H.E Berenice Owen-A JonesA (right)

08.05.2023 LISTEN

The Second Lady, Her Excellency Samira Bawumia, on Thursday commended GTS Drilling Ghana, the Rotary Club, and Wheelchair for Kids (WFK) in Australia for the tremendous support given to kids with disabilities.

Speaking during a presentation of medical equipment and consumables at the Orthopedic Training Centre (OTC) at Adoagyiri-Nsawam in the Eastern Region, the Second Lady emphasized the need to identify new approaches to supporting people with disabilities.

According to her, a sizeable proportion of the global population suffers from various forms of disability, and she stressed the need to work together to achieve an equitable society.

"About 16 percent of the world population experiences disability, and there is a need to identify new approaches to support disabled persons," said H.E. Samira Bawumia.

"I will like to praise GTS Drilling, Wheelchair for Kids, the Australian High Commission in Ghana, and Rotary International for working tirelessly to make this presentation possible," she added.

The Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, H. E. Berenice Owen-Jones, emphasized the need to support disabled people to develop to their full potential.

"We recognize that given favorable systems, support, and improved services, people with disabilities can make enormous contributions to development. This is why we are so pleased to be able to support this initiative, which aims to improve service delivery and the lives of people with disabilities," said H. E. Berenice Owen-Jones.

"I want to thank Dave Harper and his team at GTS Drilling for their immense effort in making this presentation possible and for their commitment to helping the vulnerable," added the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana.

Human Resources Manager for GTS Drilling, Iddi Baah-Kurey, observed that the company, since its inception in Ghana, has been extending various forms of support to the community.

He expressed his companys privilege of facilitating the transportation of the wheelchairs and orthopedic medical equipment from Australia to support Ghanaian children.

"We have always been committed to giving back to our community. We recognize that many children with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing suitable equipment, which is why we decided to play our part and make a difference in their lives," said Baah-Kurey.

At GTS Drilling, we are committed to continuing our partnership with the Orthopedic Training Center and other organizations that provide support and resources to children with disabilities in Ghana," the GTS HR Manager added.

Director at the OTC, Elizabeth Newman, thanked the Australian High Commissioner and the other partners for their support.

She said, "This equipment will support the services we are able to provide to children and adults who come to our center for recovery and rehabilitation with our physiotherapy and other services. With about 6,000 Ghanaians attending the OTC each year, in person and at a mobile clinic trek that traverses the rural areas once a year, the demand for the OTC continues to increase."

GTS Drilling, a local drilling company in Ghana, supported the shipment and delivery of orthopedic medical equipment and consumables donated by Wheelchair for Kids from Australia.

The donation, which filled a 40-foot container, includes a range of equipment, from hospital beds to blood pressure monitoring devices, examination tables, and 25 specially designed wheelchairs for the children. Enditem
Moses Foh-Amoaning

08.05.2023 LISTEN

In the upcoming NDC primaries, the National Coalition for Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values reaffirms its support for the seven National Democratic Congress Members of Parliament who championed the formulation and passage of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill.

The NDC MPs are Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo Prampram; Emmanuel Kwasi Bedrah of Ho West; Rockson Nelson Defeamekpor of South Dayi, Helen Adjoa Ntoso of Krachi East, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah of La Dadekotopon; Della Sowah of Kpando and Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini of Tamale North.

A statement released by Moses Foh-Amoaning, Executive Secretary of the Coalition yesterday stated it was incumbent on delegates to retain the NDC MPs to enable them to continue with the Godly works they are doing for the country.

Therefore, we ask all delegates within the constituencies of these Honourable Members of Parliament to vote massively to keep them in their seat as they help steer the passage of this all-important Bill.

We are enjoined by the Holy Scripture in Nehemiah 2:18 and encouraged by Zachariah 4:6-9, that by the help of the Lord and the joint-support of all and sundry, victory shall be secured for these Seven Honourable Members of Parliament, the statement added.

It stressed that the Coalition members have painstakingly worked on the bill in addition to writing and laying it tirelessly to bring the Bill to its current status in Parliament, where it has now been placed before the plenary for full debate.

The Constitutional, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee presented the report on the Bill to the house on March 30. When the House reconvenes from recess, there will likely be a discussion and eventual approval or rejection.

The Bill aims to make support for same-sex partnerships illegal.

Critics contend that if passed, the measure, which has received international attention, will be restrictive and limit the sexual rights of members of the LGBTQ community, which they view as being fundamental rights but proponents are convinced that the proposed law is in conformity with Ghanas cultural and religious values.

The Committee on Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs received and publicly heard more than 150 memoranda for and against the bill. The chairman of the committee, Kwame Anyinadu-Antwi, claimed that the various arguments were included in the report that will be discussed.
Former president John Dramani Mahama has once again urged party supporters to come together ahead of the National Democratic Congress's (NDC) primary elections.

On Saturday, May 13, the opposition NDC is expected to hold its presidential and parliamentary elections, during which the party will choose parliamentary candidates and a flagbearer to run as the party's candidate in the 2024 general elections.

Mr. John Dramani Mahama, who is running for the flagbearer slot made these remarks in Bimbilla as part of his campaign tour of the Northern Region.

He stated Everyone has his supporters, theres no point saying this person supported the winning team, so we will stay aside. All of us are NDC, lets support each other after the primaries, Mr. Mahama advised.

Former President John Dramani Mahama is seeking to return to power following a defeat in the previous National elections by Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo in the 2016 and 2020 general elections.
Three persons have been confirmed dead in a motor accident at Ntoaso in the Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality, in the Eastern region.

The vehicles involved were a 44 Kia Sorento with an unregistered number DV 9593-B and two Benz Sprinter buses with the registration numbers GW 8962-22 and GT 5596-14, respectively.

The accident occurred around 3:30 pm on Saturday, May 3.

According to eyewitnesses, the speeding Kia Sorento collided with the two buses that were parked along the stretch.

Several people sustained varying degrees of injuries and were transported to the Nsawam Government Hospital for medical attention.

Officers from the Ghana Police Service were deployed to the accident scene to investigate the matter.
press release

Johannesburg  The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States welcome the start of pre-negotiation talks between representatives of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in Jeddah on May 6th 2023.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States urge both parties to take in consideration the interests of the Sudanese nation and its people and actively engage in the talks towards a cease fire and end to the conflict, which will spare the Sudanese peoples suffering and ensure the availability of humanitarian aid to affected areas.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States also would like to stress the efforts of the countries and organizations which supported these talks, including Quad countries (The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, The United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States), the League of Arab States, and partners from the Trilateral Mechanism (UNITAMS, the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development).

Finally, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States urge continued, coordinated international support for an expanded negotiation process that should include engagement with all Sudanese parties.
Elsewhere in this issue, there is a story about rising tension in the Zango community in Kumasi.

Knowing the size of the Kumasi Zongo community, arguably the largest in Ghana, the need for police intelligence to delve into the matter cannot be overlooked.

Since the demise of the Sarkin Zango of the Ashanti Region, Sultan Umar Faruk and the subsequent search for a successor, the subject has become thorny.

Social media negativities are in full flight as the youth especially turn to it to trade invectives and to attack the integrity of elders and even clerics with large following.

One of such posts was directed at a respectable cleric in the Ashanti regional capital, and with his supporters responding, the outcome has been broken tables and chairs.

The isolated cases of confrontations could result in a flare-up which of course would not be in the interest of national security.

The Peace and Reconciliation Committee of the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam at their press conference have called for a truce.

While we endorse the call, we would also ask the local radio stations whose role in the situation has been subtly alluded to be circumspect in the manner they handle outbursts from the various interest groups.

Radio, when not responsibly managed, can have negative consequences on national security.

The place of Kumasi in the security architecture of the country is enormous.

It is for this reason that there should be no room for such incidents, the sum of which would not inure to the peace of not only Kumasi but the country as a whole.

Here is therefore calling on the intelligence community in Kumasi especially to survey the contents of radio broadcasts in Hausa, some of which are part of fueling the tension persisting in Kumasi.

The intelligence community can work with the Peace and Reconciliation Committee of the Office of the Regional Chief Imam to obtain a handle on the subject.

It would seem that for now the intelligence community is dealing with other subjects but the brewing trouble in the Zango community in Kumasi. When the tension reaches its zenith, the repercussions would be anything but good for national security.

Social media is spreading venom like wildfire in the Zango communities, and being the most preferred channel for hate speeches and remarks, it would appear that we have not seen the end of the nonsense yet.

We are pointing it out for the umpteenth time that social media in our communities require a lot of discipline because of the propensity of the novelty to create social and security havoc as being noticed in the Zango community in Kumasi and by extension elsewhere.

The good and the bad faces of social media could not have been better showcased.
A private legal practitioner Kofi Bentil has told the Police that they cannot impound a vehicle if the driver does not have the license on him at that particular time.

Mr Bentil indicated that the law in Ghana allows the driver to produce the license in 24 hours.

You dont have any right to amend that on your whims, he told the Police.

Some police officers have been reported to have impounded vehicles that the drivers did not have the original copies of the lives on them.

But Mr Bentil who is also Vice President of Imani Africa said in a Facebook post that If you continue infringing people's rights like these, one of these days someone will sue the Ghana Police for impounding their vehicle without probable cause and take damages for distress and loss of use from the Police (Not DVLA).

Beos is his full statement

Dear GHANA POLICE / DVLA

The LAW in Ghana DOES NOT ALLOW YOU TO IMPOUND CARS BECAUSE THE DRIVER DOES NOT HAVE A LICENSE ON HIM!! the car is NOT Evidence in that context!! there is no probable cause or justification for impounding the vehicle. The law in Ghana allows the driver to produce their license in 24 hours. You dont have any right to amend that on your whims. Carrying a photocopy of a drivers license is entirely lawful as a prima facie proof of the existence of that license. The Police can request that the original be produced in 24hours WITHOUT IMPOUNDING THE CAR.

If you continue infringing people's rights like these, one of these days someone will sue the Ghana Police for impounding their vehicle without probable cause and take damages for distress and loss of use from the Police (Not DVLA).

YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE SYSTEM (AND I BELIEVE YOU DO) TO TAKE THE PERSONS PARTICULARS AND REQUEST THEM TO REPORT AT A POLICE STATION WITH THE NECESSARY PAPERS FAILING WHICH YOU CAN CAUSE THEIR ARREST.

DON'T BREAK THE LAW TO ENFORCE THE LAW!!
France's education minister Pap Ndiaye said that there were "about 500 cases" of breaches of secularism in French schools this March  figures that were up on previous months  due to the observance of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Ndiaye was speaking on France 3 television on Sunday about the so-called "barometer" that France uses to record the wearing of religious symbols, dress code, verbal provocation, the rejection of republican values in over 59,000 schools, colleges and senior high schools.

The education minister told the "Dimanche en Politique" programme that: "The figures ... show a decrease since a peak in October [as] there is always a peak in [then] linked in particular to the commemoration of the murder of Samuel Paty."

Teacher Samuel Paty was beheaded by an 18-year-old Islamist outside Paris in 2020 following a social media campaign that criticised him showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohamed as part of his civic education class.

Rise and fall of breaches in secular rules

"And then there is always a rise, every year at the time of Ramadan," Ndiaye added without giving any details on the nature of the attacks on secularism during the Muslim holy month.

The minister said about 500 cases were recorded for the month of March, but the figures are expected to drop because of the end of Ramadan and also the spring holidays.

Reports of breaches of secularism numbered 720 in October, according to France's education ministry, with a high proportion of incidents linked to the wearing of religious symbols and clothing.

However, they reportedly dropped to 353 in November.

Professors suspended for criticising education system on-line

When asked about a recent case of two philosophy teachers who were suspended for three months for their repeated and controversial comments on social networks, Ndiaye said that the comments from the teachers were unacceptable.

"We are talking about outrageous, conspiratorial and insulting comments of great violence".

"We guarantee the right to free expression, but this type of comment does not fall within the right to free expression," he insisted.

The two are accused of sharing videos and content on social networks, likely to damage "the image and reputation of the public service of national education".
08.05.2023 LISTEN

The Germany Branch of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) has reiterated that any attempts to link the President of the Republic, Nana Akufo-Addo to any activities of illegal mining popularly known as Galamsey will never wash or hold.

According to NPP Germany, the allegations by Professor Frimpong Boateng among other quarters, are all being fueled by the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The group, is therefore, urging Ghanaians and the public to ignore Professor Frimpong Boateng, following his recent rants about galamsey activities during his time as Minister that went viral on social media.

The leadership of NPP Germany led by its Communications Director, Nana Osei Boateng was reacting to the recent allegations made by Professor Frimpong Boateng in a press release issued today.

Below is the full statement:

Press Release

NPP Germany

08.05.23

AKUFO-ADDO NOT INVOLVED IN GALAMSEY.

The NDC in their hunger games for power have tried many different ways to dent the image of the president of the republic. Recent amongst their evil plots is to attach the Galamsey mess to the name of the President.

Communication machinery of the NDC has been deployed to steer the name of the president with Galamsey and the narrative should be that the president hides in his own enclave in Kyebinesam and mine gold in a Galamsey style.

To put these evil plotters to shame, the media visited the Kyebi township and Galamsey activities could not be found anywhere close to the president. Members of the township rather told the media that His Excellency is rather at dispute with those involved in Galamsey. And he has solidly preached against those involved in Galamsey mining activities.

Akufo-Addo pledged his presidency in the fight against Galamsey. When the President was threatened not to touch miners else he will lose his second term bid, he went ahead and said he will put his presidency on the line to fight and claim back our lands from the hands of the Galamseyers.

He has remained committed to this fight and has done Ghana a lot of good in this fight. If anything is to be said about the President in connection to Galamsey, it should rather be said that he is the only President who has boldly stepped out to salvage the situation. NDC and Mahama dogged Ghana out and chased every ounce of gold underneath but Akufo-Addo has rather fought the menace.

The people of Ghana are grateful to the President for protecting our lands.

Long Live Ghana, the NPP and long live His Excellency Nana Akufo-Addo!

...Signed...

Nana Osei Boateng,

NPP Germany Branch

Communications Director
The German Development Agency (GIZ) has donated 370 laptops to the Ministry of Communications Digitalisation (MoCD) to support the Girls in ICT Programme.

The donation would serve as an incentive for the girls who have demonstrated diligence and knowledge during the ICT training conducted across the country and motivate them to continue pursuing their interests in ICT.

The Deputy Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ms Ama Pomaa-Boateng, who received the donation last Friday in Accra, commended GIZ Ghana for its continuous support to the Ministry's effort in bridging the digital divide through the Girls-in-ICT initiative.

This will ensure that the girls receive a high-quality education that is up-to-date with the latest technology and best practices in the industry, she added.

The Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy in Ghana, Madam Romona Simon, presenting the laptops, commended the Ministry for successfully organising the Girls-in-ICT-Day celebrations to encourage girls and women to pursue a future in ICTs.

She stated that the German government, through GIZ, was committed to supporting the Ministry to bridge the digital gender divide by providing access to digital literacy.

"The laptops are to be used as prizes for girls who excelled in their two-week training and motivate them to take up careers in ICT. These laptops will go a long way to help these girls practice what they have learnt and better develop their knowledge in ICT", she reiterated.

Over the past decade, the MoCD has celebrated this initiative in eleven regions to sensitise girls and young women about opportunities in the ICT sector and encourage them to consider studies and careers in mathematics, computer science, science, and technology (STEM).

This year's edition targets 5000 girls in Five Regions and is being celebrated on the theme: 'Digital Skills for Life.
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, responsible for Lands and Forestry, Mr Benito Owusu-Bio, has called on people living along the Ghana/Togo border to live in peace regardless of which side of the border they find themselves.

He said international borderlines shouldn't act as obstacles but rather as a bridge to encourage economic and social development.

He noted that mutual respect, similar cultural and socioeconomic values and the need to work together to protect the peace and stability of both nations had allowed Ghana and Togo to maintain mutually beneficial relations throughout history.

The Deputy Lands Minister made the call at a Joint Ghana/Togo Community Sensitization at Agortime-Kpetoe.

Mr Owusu-Bio noted that the meeting was to educate parties on the importance of preserving the shared borders between the two nations and to rally support for keeping limits.

He pointed out that the joint community sensitisation programme is not a new one but rather part of a series of sensitisation programmes being undertaken jointly by Ghana and Togo.

"Around the same time last year, Phase One of this programme was successfully launched at Aflao and Akanu in the Ketu North District and today, the two Boundary Commissions are here to continue with this important exercise," he clarified.

Mr Owusu-Bio said many of the markers that identify the border between Ghana and Togo's lands had been moved as a result of various issues, including erosion, manipulation, or outright removal

He added that disputes have broken out in several towns along the international boundary line as a result of the removal, adding that the management of the common boundary is a shared responsibility

"Ensuring that boundary markers are in good shape does not reside only with the Ghana Boundary Commission and the Land Boundary Commission of Togo but rather every person seated here today has a role to play, and this is why every member here is being involved in the reaffirmation exercise through this sensitisation programme, he stressed.

The Deputy Minister applauded both Commissions for their commitment to ensuring proper management and preservation of the Ghana/Togo land boundary and urged them to keep up the excellent job.

He also expressed gratitude to the leaders and people of all communities along the Ave Dakpa - Wli Afegame stretch, mentioning that the overwhelming representation from both sides demonstrated their commitment to ensuring the success of the joint Ghana/Togo reaffirmation exercise (to be held) and, indeed, the proper management of Ghana and Togo's common boundary.

He called on traditional rulers, opinion leaders and communities living along the international boundary line to lend their full support and cooperation to members of the joint Ghana/Togo Land Boundary Reaffirmation Technical Committee.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel A. Jinapor, has assured that the government would continue to engage stakeholders to prevent climate change and achieve the 1.5 degree Celsius target.

The Minister, who was speaking at a strategic meeting with the United Kingdoms Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Rt. Hon. Therese Coffey in London, noted that addressing climate change requires a collaborative approach.

The meeting focused on key elements of Ghana's and the United Kingdom's engagements in Sustainable Food Systems and Biodiversity Conservation, the new and novel Forest and Climate Leaders' Partnership (FCLP), the Voluntary Partnership Agreement on Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (VPA-FLEGT) and other mutually important forest and climate change issues.

Mr Jinapor stated that Ghana and the United Kingdom were both committed to that path and would build indicators to track success in the actions being planned to solve those concerns.

Deforestation, Climate and Forest Financing, and Carbon Markets Due Diligence laws for commodity supply chains emerged as critical priorities for increasing involvement in and ambition for sustainable finance during the meeting.
08.05.2023 LISTEN

Former Northern Regional National Democratic Congress Communications officer, Iddrisu Hardi Pagzaa was seen in a disturbing video issuing an assault on a journalist at Dagbon FM, in Tamale.

The suspect reportedly turned himself in to the police on Monday morning.

According to the accused's lawyer Saulisu Biawurbe, a police inquiry bail will be filed for his release as the investigation continue.

The radio presenter with Tamale-based Dagbon FM, Abubakari Sadiq Gariba was attacked by a former Northern Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hardi Pagzaa on May 3.

In a video circulating on social media, Mr. Pagzaa and one other man were seen storming the studio of Dagbon Radio.

The two men held up the presenter who was at the point hosting a show and threatened to slap him if he makes a comment.
I was watching H. E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia yesterday (6/5/23) in Walewale as he addressed the delegates of NPP. I could see a man full of possibilities for Ghana. I could see a man who is dedicated and committed to seeing Ghana develop. I got to know how he has contributed to major policies implementations in Ghana during erstwhile President J. A. Kufuor government, though he had no any intention of engaging in any partisan politics.

As most of us are aware, when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) came to power in 2001 with H. E. J. A. Kufuor as president, Ghana was already highly indebted. The then government needed to seek for debt relieves that would enable them to manage the country. It is refreshing to know that the ever brilliant Dr. Bawumia was given the opportunity by President Kufuor to serve as a lead technical analyst with other NPP government appointees. Dr Bawumia's possiblity mindset came to bare when people thought it was impossible but he said it was possible and true to his words Ghana was granted debt relieves amounting to Four Billion Dollars with other benefits such as sanitary, educational and health infrastructural developments under the highly indebted poor countries (HIPC) initiative.

Another important key contribution to the development of Ghana and NPP government in the President Kufuor's era by Dr. Bawumia is the redenomination of the Ghana Currency. He played a pivotal role with that possiblity mindset to the realization of all that very important currency redenomination. Yes, if you didn't know that our ever brilliant Dr. Bawumia played such a role, now you know.

With so much confidence and trust in him, H. E. J. A. Kufuor appointed him as a deputy governor of the Central Bank of Ghana. Dr Bawumia worked hard to the admiration of the gentle giant (JAK).

Dr. Bawumia's hard work, dedication and commitment to making Ghana a better country is not in doubt as illustrated above. He is always impactful at everywhere he finds himself. His mindset is always positive. Yes, we can mindset. It is possible.

It is abviously clear that Dr. Bawumia had a strong connection with the NPP government prior to his appointment as a running mate to Nana Addo in 2008. He had no intention at all to engage in partisan politics but that very important call came and he rightly answered it. Though, I believe it would not be easy leaving a big and secured position like deputy governor of Bank of Ghana for a running mate. He has so far positively changed the dynamics of politics in Ghana ever since he joined politics. He worked hard as a running mate and won power for NPP for two consecutive terms after two unsuccessful attempts. He is a true definition of perseverance and possibility. Some Ghanaians said on countless occasions and fora that Nana Addo will never become president of Ghana but with the possibility mindset of Dr Bawumia, Nana Addo is now two term president.

Dr. Bawumia as a Vice President undoubtedly has raised the bar at the office of the Vice President which will be very difficult for his successors to reach. He has proven that a very good Vice President can make meaningful impact in government if given the opportunity.

Do I even need to tell you what he has done as a Vice President of Ghana and the heir apparent to the president of Ghana? A very useful Vice President should have the trust and confidence of his boss and H. E. Dr. Bawumia has that. He tells his boss, it is possible and it is done.

Dr. Bawumia, a man with a possibility mindset is credited with highly impactful developmental projects and intiatives such as the sinohydro roads projects, medical drone delivery services, paperless port system, Ghana card, digital address system, one constituency; one ambulance, paperless Health Information Management System in hospitals, E - pharmacy, QR code system, gold for oil initiative, gold reserves at the Bank of Ghana, online renewal of NHIS card, agenda 111 projects, sourcing of funding from UK for the construction of Tamale and Kumasi International airports, mobile money interoperability, FSHS, Free TVET, restoration of nurses' and teachers' trainees allowance, among others

H. E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is indeed the best and next to lead NPP to break the eight in the 2024 elections. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, President of Ghana, 2025, it is possible, In Sha Allah.

Alhaji Salifu Hadara

A Patriot

Nalerigu - Gambaga Constituency

North East Region

[email protected]

7/5/23
08.05.2023 LISTEN

The Internet Penetration on the Rise in Liberia:

A few years ago, it was widely and internationally reported that the Liberian Internet system was entirely shut down by a 30-years old British hacker Mr. Daniel Kaye, whose case has recently been adjudicated by the United Kingdom's judicial system at Blackfriars Crown Court in London. the Varus that was used to jeopardize the Internet Providing System (IPS) in Liberia is known as Mirai #14 botnet, which is considered one of the dangerous distributed denial of service (DDoS) botnet that cause Internet to sustain serious shutdown at a large scale. Therefore, Mr Daniel Kaye has been sentenced under the UK's Computer Misuse Act of 1990 to three years in jail because of his hacking activities on Liberia's Internet infrastructures in 2016 that caused millions of dollars in damages on businesses and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) mainly Lonestar Communication Incorporated (MTN).

Ironically, this event occurred, the local authorities did not know about it until it was headlined by international Information Technology sites and news outlets. This was due to lack of effective and sophisticated defense system of this newly engaged and highly saturated space with data, information and other valuable materials of the public sector, private enterprises and individuals in Liberia. Besides, the Internet penetration is on the exponential rise in the country as depicted in the below Chart (Figure 1), which shows the rise from 0% in 2000 to 8.6% in 2016 that is comparably higher than some of its neighboring countries such Sierra Leone (2.4%) and Guinea (1.8%) as for 2016[ii]. Thus, this calls for a need to protect the cyberspace through legislative and technological intervention against illegal intrusions; hacking the banks accounts, extra judicial accessing to the nation's critical IT infrastructures and causing financial and technical harms to businesses.

Figure 1



Source: Internet Live Stats (www.InternetLiveStats.com)

Recently, according to some reports, there were 1.80 million internet users in Liberia at the start of 2023, when internet penetration stood at 33.6 percent. Liberia was home to 642.1 thousand social media users in January 2023, equating to 12.0 percent of the total population. A total of 4.20 million cellular mobile connections were active in Liberia in early 2023, with this figure equivalent to 78.4 percent of the total population[iii].

Global Movement of Stringent Legislation of Cybersphere:

The seriousness and danger of the illegal intrusion of Cyberspace and computer misuse have persuaded many countries around the World to revisit their traditional laws and legislative and legal instruments in order to harmonize them with the threat and opportunities carried by Cyberspace. For instance, Singapore, Malaysia, USA, UK, South Korea Saudi Arabia and Estonia are some leading jurisdictions in this movement. It is, therefore, imperative to note that this movement is not only for the high- tech countries as it may be claimed/ presumed by some average-minded-people. Nonetheless, it is for every nation due to highly connectedness, cyber-globalization, and smallness of our World because of technology and heavily usage of smart instruments and IT-connected activities; phones, personal computers and e-banking, e-commerce, to state but a few.

I and many concerned-IT guys have been calling on the government through publications and policy dialogue-; and advocating for further regulation of Cyberspace in Liberia since 2016 internationally acclaimed hacking happened. However, some of those who have to really push the button told me in a policy dialogue on this issue that Liberia is not an high-tech country hinting that there is less need for rigorous regulation of the visual and Cybersphere . That means Cyber security law isn't matter of concern. Now, the UK judiciary had jailed his own citizen for extra judicially tempering our cyber security in Liberia. The point here is, we need a proper and effective cyber security law as a further deterrent measure for both internal and external intrusions into our Cyberspace. This move had been taken by most of our neighboring and African nations such as Ghana ( Data Protection Act 2012, Economic and Organized Crimes Act, 2010) ,Nigeria ( Cybercrime Act, 2015) Kenyan ( The Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act of 2018), Uganda, ( Computer Misuse Act of 2011) and South Africa has prepared its Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill but it yet to be passed into the law.

Technical and Financial Impacts of Kaye's Hacking Action in Liberia:

According to Dominic Casciani, BBC Home Affairs Correspondent,[iv] Mr. Kaye's attack on Lonestar Communication Incorporated (MTN), one of the Liberian largest ISPs caused the company serious damages in its revenues. In the years preceding the DDOS attacks, Lonestar's annual revenue exceeded $80m (62.4m). Since the attacks, revenue has decreased by tens of millions and its current liabilities have increased by tens of millions. Furthermore, former Chief Executive Officer of Lonestar Babatunde Osho, said describing the magnitude of Kaye's criminality and hacking as 'devastating. Further, the action also denial thousands of Lonestar subscribers from calling one other during the period of the shutdown.

Technical and Policy Recommendations:

It is, therefore, recommended to the government of Liberia to firstly recognize the fragility of its cyberspace. Secondly, the fragility of the cybertsphere is not less important than the fragility of its real space because thousands of transactions that take place through the usage of the Internet. Thirdly, the authority has to emulate other advanced cyberlaw jurisdictions by legislating laws and designing and instituting policies as a further deterrent measures against any internal and external illegal intrusion into Liberia's cyberspace. It has to be noted that Telecommunication Act of 2007 was a great step and initiative; it has some provisions criminalizing certain behaviors and activities by computer misuse. Nevertheless, there is still a need to further deepen legislative and technical interventions, especially by legislating a comprehensive and wholistic cybercrime act. Fourthly, as the nation trains its real space law-enforcement officers, Liberia has to invest in technology to train a team to at least minimize the fragility of its cyberspace in general and personal data of private citizens in particular from being criminally accessed thus causing financial damages and other ramifications of insecurity of Cyberspace. All in all, these proposed measures need to be instituted by the Liberian government Actions and measures, both technical and non-technical, with the express purpose of protecting computers, networks, software, data and other related digital technologies from all threat Professional activity of implementing the above-mentioned actions and measures, including research, analysis and policy development[v]

About the Author:

Dr. Mory Sumaworo,

BA (IU) MCL (IIUM), Cert-in PFM Law (LIPA) Ph.D. (IIUM)

Lecturer @ Cuttington University Graduate School of Global Affairs and Policy and A.M.E University Graduate School of Foreign Service Leadership.

Executive Director of African Institute for Development Research.

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Endnotes:



Conner Forrest , How the Mirai botnet almost took down an entire country, and what your business can learn, (2016), TechRepublic, https://goo.gl/FRvGVt

[ii] Internet Live Stats (www.InternetLiveStats.com), Guinea and Sierra Leon.

[iii] DataRepotal, Digital 2023 Liberia, https://datareportal.com/reports/digital-2023-liberia

[iv] Dominic Casciani, Briton who knocked Liberia offline with cyber attack jailed, (Jan 11, 2019), https://goo.gl/yXmRfB

[v] Cole, Kristina & Chetty, et , Cybersecurity in Africa: An Assessment (2008), Sam Nuum School of International Affairs, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta. https://goo.gl/21XMWa.
press release

Johannesburg  From May 6-12, 2023, Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Verification and Compliance Mallory Stewart will travel to Cape Town and Pretoria, South Africa, and Cairo, Egypt, to meet with leaders in government and academia, as well as NGO officials.

In Cape Town, she will conduct briefings and speak with faculty and graduate students at Saldanha Bay Military Academy, Stellenbosch University.

Later that afternoon, the Assistant Secretary will deliver a speech at the South African Institute of International Affairs, Western Cape Branch.

In Pretoria, May 9-10, Assistant Secretary Stewart will hold talks with several officials at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation Republic of South Africa (DIRCO).

Briefings and discussions will center around emerging technology, nonproliferation, risk reduction and space affairs.

In Cairo, Egypt, she will conclude her trip with meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and with the Assistant Secretary General of the League of Arab States.
Azali Assoumani, president of the Union of Comoros and the African Union rotating chairman, told RFI that he will not accept the forced repatriation by France of around ten thousand people from Mayotte to the Comoros. Nor will he accept a financial compensation to take undocumented Comorians from Mayotte as part of the "Wuambushu" operation.

"I will not today accept money in exchange for Comorians expelled from Mayotte. One does not trade like this," Colonel Azali Assoumani, president of the Union of the Comoros, told RFI and its sister TV station, France 24 on Sunday.

Assoumani is the president of the three islands, Grande-Comore, Moheli and Anjouan as well as the rotating chairman of the African Union for 2023.

He said that he spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron twice over the phone recently and has requested to meet him.

The so-called "Wuambushu" ('take back' in Comorian) operation started on 21 April 2023 in Mayotte, a French department, in order to fight illegal migration and organised crime on the island.

The beginning of the operation did not go smoothly, despite the 1,800 members of the French security forces deployed specifically for this task.

Speaking at the French Senate in Paris on 3 May, Interior minister, Gerald Darmanin said the wild proliferation of "bangas", or slums with "no water, electricity or gas" must be stopped.

Estelle Youssouffa, a locally elected member of Parliament (MP) in Mayotte, said that the Wuambushu operation was launched at the request of MPs and the population.

"In Mayotte, one can no longer go out because of the rampant crime and violence. We no longer have a night life, or a social life," said another local MP, Mansour Kamardine, who supports the operation launched to fight organised crime.

Mayotte is a "French problem"

"France has been managing Mayotte for the last 47 years. It is responsible, if not guilty, for what is happening there, Assoumani said.

"The people traffickers are from Mayotte. It's not me.

"I take responsibility for what is going on in the three islands [Grande-Comore, Moheli, Anjouan] when it comes to juvenile delinquency but not for what is going on in Mayotte," Assoumani added.

Mayotte voted against independence in 1975, as opposed to the other three islands of the Comoros archipelago. It became France's 101st department in 2011 and its poorest.

In 2019, the Union of Comoros agreed to a financial aid of 150 million from France to put a stop to human trafficking and the use of "kwasa-kwasa" (traditional Comorian fishing boats) to transport people illegally to Mayotte.

But according to MP Estelle Youssouffa, the situation has worsened since 2018.

"Insecurity in Mayotte and an out-of-control migration make life unbearable on the island," she added.

President Assoumani told RFI that he will not accept any financial support in return for allowing in the ten thousand people deported from Mayotte.

"France is a state that abides by the rule of law. It needs to legalise the situation of the people there. It is up to France to manage the Comorians in Mayotte, I will not accept them on the three islands," he added.

"The people [who are to be expelled] are not only from the three [Comorian] islands but also from Rwanda, Madagascar, Burundi".

Visa blackmail

In 2018, France initiated financial retaliation and a visa freeze for Comorians when no solution could be found with the Union of Comoros. Could France exert some form of retaliation if the Comoros insist on refusing to take in the undocumented Comorians?

"A visa blackmail is undignified for a country like France. And, in the past, the visa freeze did not yield any results," he commented.

The Comorian ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior and Defense will meet their French counterparts "to find a solution to this problem".

"We want the meetings to be at a broader governmental level, not reduced to an issue between the Intertior ministries only," Assoumani added.

The President of the Union of Comoros also spoke about the Sudanese meeting in Jeddah and the war opposing Russia and Ukraine.
Charles Kwaning, one of the alleged murderers of Major Maxwell Mahama has denied his active involvement in the lynching of the Army Officer.

The State identified the accused person in the amateur video wearing a red T-shirt and a long-short holding at one point a gun and on the other hand a stick, but he denied his own identity.

Kwaning was answering questions in a cross-examination by Mrs Frances Mullen-Ansah, Chief State Attorney.

The prosecution insisted that the person in the video with the red T-shirt and a pair of long shorts was the accused.

When a photo album was handed over to the accused person to identify himself, he could not, indicating that the person in the picture was not him.

The prosecution suggested to the accused person that, he was the one in the video, holding a gun, still wearing a red T-shirt and a pair of long shorts but Kwaning denied, saying, I cannot see the face of the person but in any case, my gun was folded.

The State pointed to the accused person that he actually took active part in the lynching of the Major, but he denied saying, he was there but he only helped in preventing people from hitting him with cement block.

The prosecution suggested to the accused person that in his statement to the Police in Kasoa, he indicated that he was not at the crime scene but when he got to the Police Headquarters, he stated that he was at the scene, but Kwaning said he told the Police at all times that he was at the scene.

He said it could be that the Police in Kasoa did not capture what he truly said.

Fourteen persons are standing trial at an Accra High Court over the killing of Major Mahama, who was an officer of the 5th Infantry Battalion, at Burma Camp.

The late Major whiles on duty at Denkyira-Obuasi in the Central Region on May 29, 2017, some residents allegedly mistook him for an armed robber and lynched him, ignoring his persistent plea that he was an officer with the Ghana Armed Forces.

The accused persons are William Baah, the Assembly member of Denkyira-Obuasi, Bernard Asamoah, alias Daddy, Kofi Nyame a.k.a Abortion, Charles Kwaning a.k.a Akwasi Boah, Kwame Tuffour, Joseph Appiah Kubi, Michael Anim and Bismarck Donkor.

The others are John Bosie, Akwasi Baah, Charles Kwaning, Emmanuel Badu, Bismarck Abanga and Kwadwo Anima.

GNA
The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Czech Republic, His Excellency Vit Rakusan visited the Republic of Ghana, from 30th April to 2nd May 2023.

His three-day working visit was part of activities to deepen the bilateral relations between the two countries.

The areas of focus during his trip were security; the effect of the stability of the African continent on the European Union and the Czech Republics support and contribution towards the development of the Ghanaian health sector.

During the visit, H.E Rakusan launched the next phase of the mission of the MEDEVAC Health and Humanitarian Programme of the Czech Ministry of the Interior at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital. The programme focuses on plastic surgeries being performed by doctors of the Plastic Surgery Department of the Royal Vinohrady Hospital.

H.E Rakusan also held bilateral meetings with the Vice President of Ghana, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Minister of Interior, Hon. Ambrose Dery, Minister of National Security, Hon. Albert Kan-Dapaah and Minister of Health, Hon. Kwaku Agyemang-Manu.

H.E Rakusans meetings with the Vice President of Ghana, Ministers of Interior, National Security, and Health focussed on bilateral cooperation, security in Ghana and across the African continent and developing the Ghanaian health sector. He expressed his countrys appreciation of Ghana's support for the UN resolution condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

In addition was the Security Development Cooperation Programme of the Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic for collaboration between Ghanaian Police Services and their Czech counterparts for exchanges in the areas of internal security and cyberspace crimes.

At a cocktail reception held in his honour, which provided an opportunity to meet and engage with Ghanaian industry captains and relevant stakeholders with respect to Ghana - Czech bilateral trade at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, I was privileged to have a brief interaction with H.E Rakusan.

He expressed his excitement to be visiting Ghana, which is a strategic partner of the Czech Republic on the African continent and further commented on the MEDEVAC Health and Humanitarian Programme of the Czech Ministry of the Interior.

It was great to see the results of our MEDEVAC programme which started in Ghana in 2019 on the ground. I thank our doctors and the other people from the programme for being able to improve the quality of life of Ghanaians. So far, our experts have managed to perform 261 operations on 238 patients. The missions focus on patients from the deprived parts of Ghana, often with complicated diagnoses.

"Following the previous successful missions focusing on orthopaedics and gynaecology at Tamale Teaching Hospital, a mission started last year on plastic and reconstructive surgery on trauma follow-up, particularly for women and children with congenital limb defects or following severe burn injury, he highlighted.

H.E Rakusan also participated in the Czech - Ghana Health Care and Pharmaceutical Business Cooperation Seminar held in Accra and urged business collaborations and capacity building between Czech and Ghanaian companies in the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical sector.
Former Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu has indicated that John Dramani Mahama has his full support to become flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking at the campaign rally of the former President in Tamale South on Monday, May 8, the MP said he has no doubt that the time has come for Mahama to become President again.

According to him, the frontrunner in the NDC flagbearer race will not only rescue Ghana from the bad government of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) but will also restore the ailing economy.

It is John Mahamas time, his time to lead the NDC, his time to lead and save this country and save the economy of Ghana and save jobs and inspire hopes in the youth of our country. It is the time for John Mahama to rescue Ghana and rescue the Ghanaian economy, Haruna Iddrisu said.

At the rally, John Dramani Mahama promised to reward all party executives and members who will work hard to secure victory for the NDC in the 2024 general elections.

He indicated that the good cooks in the NDC will be given jobs as caterers under the school feeding programme.

We are also going to reward you and so any branch that gets the target votes that we are going to give, all the nine-member executives, we are going to give you a very handsome reward so that we can work hard.

If we are hiring school feeding caterers, our women organizers too know how to cook, we will come and take our women organisers and you also go and cook for the primary school children and make some money for yourselves and so you are going to get your fair share of everything the country has to offer, John Dramani Mahama said.
The maiden Ho Youth Policy Hackathon aimed at building a young people-inclusive city and supportive community, has ended successfully in Ho, the Volta Regional Capital.

The one-day trailblazing event attracted, policymakers, students, community leaders, youth advocates, and representatives from local organizations.

The Ho Youth Policy Hackathon was on the theme "Building a Young People, Inclusive City through Private-public Partnership.

Young people of different classes were engaged through panel discussions and interactive breakout sessions on the challenges they face, especially, youth participation in city governance, mental health, happiness, sexual and reproductive health, and employability, They also proposed solutions for them.

The ideas and solutions that were generated during the panel discussions and interactive breakout sessions will be drafted in a document and handed over to policymakers for consideration in their annual plans for young people.

Programmes Manager for Node Eight, Perfect Amegboe, who was elated about the turn-up and success of the event is hopeful the ideas will lead to more and healthier policies for young people.

We hope to see the solutions developed during the event implemented to create a healthier, more inclusive future for all young people in Ho.

The goal is to build a city where young people feel comfortable and safe and have opportunities and everything that they would need to grow, he stated.

Managing Director for Node Eight, Courage Asase described Ho as an emerging city smooth for growth hence their decision to start the three-year funded project in the Volta Regional Capital, Ho.

Mr. Asase added that the objective of the Hackathon is to develop a youth policy that would be prioritized and implemented in the Ho Municipal Annual Plan.

After the event we will come out with a youth policy, he noted

The Municipal Chief Executive of Ho, Mr. Divine Richard Bosson called for the inclusion of young people in decision-making. He said opportunities must be created for the youth to contribute to issues that directly or indirectly affect them.

We must create opportunities for young people to participate in decision making, especially the ones that affect them directly and indirectly, Mr. Bosson said.

Mr. Bosson added that for young people to thrive they would need a safe and conducive environment.

For our young people to thrive we must create a conducive environment that promotes youth welfare, safety, and security, this is where the concept of the youth-inclusive city comes into place.

The public-private partnership can succeed in providing the youth agenda if they're able to pull resources and expertise of the two entities together to provide the necessary support for our young people, he added.

The Executive Director of Love Aid Foundation, Ms. Lovia Tetteh, urged young people to be inquisitive and united in their voices for an inclusive future.

We young people are not inquisitive enough, it's like we don't care about what is happening around us. We don't have a united voice that is why the politicians always run to us for violence.

We need to have a united voice and be inquisitive to take part in policy making, she added.

The Ho Youth Policy Hackathon was organized by Node Eight, a digital innovations hub in Ho, funded by Botnar Fondation, a Swiss philanthropic foundation working to improve the health and well-being of young people living in growing cities around the world.

The event was patterned by the Ghana Education Service, Ho Municipal Assembly, and Love Aid Foundation. The initiative is scheduled to run for three years.
08.05.2023 LISTEN

President of the republic Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in a Facebook post confirmed an ongoing discussion with the prime minister of the government of Canada, his excellency Justin Trudeau, in Londo.

The post revealed, On Sunday 7th May 2023, I held bilateral discussions with the prime minister of the Government of Canada, His Excellency Justin Trudeau, in London.

Our talks centred on strengthening the ties of co-operation and bonds of friendship between Ghana and Canada.

Canada is amongst the first countries to acknowledge Ghanas independence in 1957 and established its first Africa bilateral development program.

The two countries have collaborated together in conducting successful initiatives such as the International Civic Aviation Organization(ICAO), International Criminal Court (ICC) and United Nations (UN).

Over the past 60 years, Canada has supported ties with Ghana by intervening and providing 2.5 billion dollars in development assistance.

In particular, for rural communities in the north, these interventions have improved agricultural systems, livelihoods and food security.

Canada continues to work with the government on projects like "Ghana Beyond Aid" and a fund for local initiatives to strengthen human rights, democracy, and women's participation in peace and security activities as well as local companies in Ghana.
The Ghana Mineworkers Union of the Trades Union Congress (Ghana) will on Tuesday, May 9, stage a demonstration in Kpone against Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd to protest the unlawful dismissal of three workers.

This is a resolution adopted by the National Executive Council of the Ghana Mineworkers Union at its emergency meeting held on Monday, May 8, at the TUC Conference Hall, Accra.

At the demonstrations scheduled to be staged at Kpone, Tema, tomorrow, the Ghana Mineworkers Union will have the full support of the Trades Union Congress and all of its members.

According to the leadership of GMWU, the demonstration has become necessary because all calls on the management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd and the authorities concerned to ensure that all the three local union leaders of the company whose appointments were wrongfully terminated are reinstated has fallen on deaf ears.

GMWU also argues that the several calls to the Management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd to refrain from any acts of intimidation, fear, and panic being unleashed on its members in the company have yielded no result.

Further convinced that Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited is abusing and violating workers rights, by preventing them from freely choosing to exercise their rights guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana, labour laws and ILO Conventions 87 (Right to Freedom of Association) and 98 (Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining),

"The Ghana Mineworkers Union of TUC (Ghana) resolves as follows:

To use every means including embarking on protest marches, picketing demonstrations, strikes, etc., across the industry and the country to demand the reinstatement of the three dismissed local union leaders of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana), General secretary of the GMWU, Abdul-Moomin Gbana announced at its emergency meeting today.

According to Abdul-Moomin Gbana, GMWU will work with TUC and all Organized Labour Groups in Ghana and abroad to demand the reinstatement of the three dismissed local union leaders and halt the notorious acts of intimidation and victimisation by Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited without further delay.

The GMWU with support from TUC besides the planned demonstration on Tuesday, says a number of actions have been planned and will be implemented if the sacked workers are not reinstated after the demonstration.

Speaking at the GMWU emergency meeting, Secretary-General of TUC, Dr. Anthony Baah assured of his outfit's commitment to push to ensure Sunon Asogli reinstates the sacked staff.

This is not the time for long talks. The time for meetings is over. It is time to act now and Im glad that you are ready for it. Our demand is simple. Our three brothers should be reinstated now. They have done nothing wrong. They only wanted to exercise their rights under the constitution of the country.

Even the President of Ghana cannot stop us from joining a union not to talk of someone coming from China. No amount of investment can buy our rights. Not in our own country, Dr. Anthony Baah emphasised.
Air strikes again shook Sudan's capital Monday while the latest truce talks in Jeddah yielded no progress and a Saudi diplomat said both sides consider themselves "capable of winning the battle".

Sudan was thrown into deadly chaos when fighting broke out on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The battles have since killed hundreds, wounded thousands and uprooted hundreds of thousands, leading to fears of security fallout beyond Sudan's borders.

Those unable to escape are left barricaded inside their homes struggling to survive with dire shortages of essential supplies and communication links disrupted.

The feuding generals have sent representatives to Saudi Arabia for talks on establishing a humanitarian truce in an effort also backed by the United States, but to no avail so far.

By Monday, the talks had yielded "no major progress", a Saudi diplomat told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"A permanent ceasefire isn't on the table... Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle," the diplomat added.

A closed medical centre in southern Khartoum -- access to health care has been severely affected, the UN says. By - (AFP)

For Kholood Khair, founder of the Khartoum-based think tank Confluence Advisory, the delegations "are there mostly to curry favour with the Saudis and the Americans, rather than to credibly use this platform as a means to reach an agreement."

In Khartoum, a city of five million, terrified residents reported more combat, now in its fourth week, as they hid in their homes, trying to cope with power outages and sweltering heat.

A southern Khartoum resident told AFP the family could hear "the sound of airstrikes which appeared to come from near a market in central Khartoum".

'Dangerous everywhere'

The fighting has sparked a mass exodus of foreigners and of Sudanese, in both air and sea evacuations as well as arduous overland journeys to Egypt, Chad, South Sudan and other neighbouring countries.

Civilians flee conflict-racked Sudan. By Sophie RAMIS (AFP)

"It's very dangerous everywhere," said Rawaa Hamad, who escaped from Port Sudan on an evacuation flight carrying 71 people to Qatar on Monday.

In Sudan, she said, people endure "a lack of everything -- a lack of water, lack of fuel, lack of medicine, lack of even hospitals and doctors".

The battles have killed more than 750 people and injured over 5,000, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

The United Nations has warned of a widening humanitarian crisis. Fighting has already displaced 335,000 people and created in excess of 120,000 refugees.

More than 60,000 Sudanese have fled north into Egypt, 30,000 west to Chad, and over 32,000 to South Sudan, according to the UN.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met with Chad's President, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, in N'Djamena Monday and was en route to neighbouring South Sudan, according to a ministry statement.

It warned of "the great humanitarian tragedy" of the conflict, "directly affecting Sudan's neighbouring countries."

The UN top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, has travelled to the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, and a UN official said on Monday that Griffiths had "asked to join the negotiations" between the warring sides, but that his request had not been approved so far.

Mediation efforts

Saudi Arabia is pushing for "a timetable for expanded negotiations to reach a permanent cessation of hostilities", its foreign ministry said.

The Jeddah talks, which are set to continue "in the following days", aim to reach "an effective short-term halt" to the fighting, facilitating aid delivery and restoring basic services, it added.

Large numbers of Sudanese fleeing the fighting gather in the town of Wadi Halfa bordering Egypt. By - (AFP/File)

Since mid-April, multiple truce deals have been declared and quickly violated in the poverty-stricken country with a history of instability.

Mediation efforts have multiplied.

The African Union -- which holds little leverage after suspending Sudan following a coup in 2021 -- and East African regional bloc IGAD are pushing for discussions mediated by South Sudan.

Heavyweights in the pan-Arab bloc are divided on Sudan, with Egypt supporting Burhan and the United Arab Emirates seen to be backing the RSF, according to experts.

The absence of Cairo and Abu Dhabi from the Jeddah talks, according to Sudanese analyst Khair, further dampens hopes for an agreement.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been internally displaced or fled to Sudan's neighbours. By - (AFP)

"This is partly symptomatic of how much Saudi Arabia and the US have played this very close to their chest, rather than expand and create an international, unified critical mass around these talks," she told AFP.

Since together orchestrating a coup in October 2021 that upended a fragile transition to civilian rule, Burhan and Daglo have engaged in a power struggle.

Before their feud erupted into war, attempts to usher both generals through political negotiations stuttered and faltered -- most recently on the integration of the RSF into the regular army.

burs/fz/jsa/it
Former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng says it was not easy for him to write about his own colleague ministers in the report of the now-dissolved Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) which he chaired.

However, he said, he had to be brutally frank with the President on issues of illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey) as part of the solution to the problem.

Asked whether he stands by the contents of the report despite the attacks on it by some officials of the government, Prof Frimpong-Boateng told TV3s Alfred Ocansey in a yet-to-be-aired interview on the Ghana Tonight show on TV3 that Yes.

He further stated It wasnt an easy thing writing about some of my colleagues bUt I had to be brutally honest with the president and that is why I did what I did. I could have said, Mr President, everything is ok, it is under control, maybe given a chance we will be able to do it, write some wishy-washy thing and then not achieve

I had to be honest with myself and knowing the president, who he is, he wanted the truth and I did that from my point of view.

His report implicated a wide number of government officials, most of whom have denied the allegations in the report.

For instance, he cited Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for gathering a group of journalists at the Forest Hotel in Dodowa to begin a mudslinging campaign against the respected heart surgeon while he chaired the Committee.

According to Prof Frimpong-Boateng, the meeting of journalists from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress (NDC) media houses was to discuss a strategy to bring me Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng down.

He complained Mr Oppong Nkrumah, who is also a Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi, never called him about the missing excavators though he was part of the Inter-Ministerial Committee.

If Kojo Oppong Nkrumah and the likes of him have presidential ambitions, they should pursue it on merit and not attempt to destroy a hard-working patriot, whose only ambition is work to achieve a Ghana Beyond Aid, the old professor had concluded in the report dated Friday, March 19, 2021.

But in his reply on Friday, April 21, Mr Oppong Nkrumah wondered:  What would I , a much younger man, seek to gain from bringing down a person as well respected as Prof Boateng?

I had no interest in his profession, his politics or his portfolio s . I have absolutely nothing to gain from sullying his reputation.

He advised Prof Frimpong-Boateng to have interrogated that call from his journalist friend about the supposed 'secret' meeting at Dodowa before drawing his conclusions.

Mr Oppong Nkrumah expressed belief that in the coming months and years, Prof Frimpong-Boateng will reflect deeply on his own actions and comments which have led to his challenges.

 Over the years, I h ad nothing but great admiration for Prof Boateng ' s public-spirited works and as an inspirational citizen."

3news.com
The Accra High Court trying Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo and Mr Anthony Kwaku Boahen has adjourned the trial to June 1, 2023.

This followed the attention drawn by Mr Tony Lithur, defence counsel for Mr Ofosu-Ampofo, former Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), that they had filed an application at the Court of Appeal and were awaiting direction on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

The Court and Prosecution said they did not have copies to that effect.

Mrs Yvonne Attakorah Obuobisa, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), said  what we have is the appeal proper and fixes for May 10, 2023. We have not received the records for the appeal for the appeal proper. It is only this morning that he said he filed it on Friday, and I was ready to go.

Mr Boahen, the second accused person, has indicated that he was filing an appeal against the ruling on the submission of no case, the DPP added.

Dr Aziz Bamba, defense counsel for Mr Boahen, one of the NDC communicators, said they had filed a fiat, adding that  I am surprised you were not served.

Mrs Attakorah Obuobisa promised to check the registry as prosecution had not been served.

The Court presided over by Justice Samuel K. Asiedu also said,  Im also ready, especially when Tony Lithur filed witness statements."

Mr Ofosu-Ampofo and Mr Boahen have been charged for threatening to cause harm to public officers.

They have since been granted bail.

The facts of prosecution are that following the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election, which was characterised by violence on January 31, 2019, Ofosu Ampofo met with some NDC communicators on February 3, 2019.

At the said meeting, prosecution said Ofosu Ampofo and Boahen mapped out a strategy of criminal activities, including violence against the Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Mrs Jean Mensa and Most Reverend Professor Emmanuel Asante, Chairman of the National Peace Council.

It said an audio recording of the said meeting was leaked and the Criminal Investigations Department commenced investigation over the comment made in the said tape.

On February 20, 2019, Boahen in an interview, confirmed his participation in the meeting and also revealed that the leaked audio recording was a true reflection of what had transpired on February 3, 2019 meeting.

GNA
The Trades Union Congress (TUC) of Ghana has assured that it will be fully represented on Tuesday, May 9, when the Ghana Mineworkers Union (GMWU) stages its demonstration against Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited.

According to the leadership of GMWU, the demonstration has become necessary after calls on the management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd and all the authorities concerned to ensure that all the three local union leaders of the company whose appointments were wrongfully terminated are reinstated has fallen on deaf ears.

GMWU also argues that the several calls to the Management of Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Ltd to refrain from acts of intimidation, fear, and panic being unleashed on its members in the company have yielded no result.

Further convinced that Sunon Asogli Power (Ghana) Limited is abusing and violating workers rights, by preventing them from freely choosing to exercise their rights guaranteed by the Constitution of Ghana, labour laws, and ILO Conventions 87 (Right to Freedom of Association) and 98 (Right to Organize and Collective Bargaining), the leadership of GMWU insists that the time to rise up against such conduct from the Chinese-owned company is now.

Speaking at the emergency meeting of the National Executive Council of the Ghana Mineworkers Union held on Monday, May 8, TUC Secretary-General Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah admonished all labour unions to get involved to fight for the reinstatement of the sacked workers.

He argued that in a country where President Akufo-Addo cannot stop any worker from joining a union, the management of Sunon Asogli must not be allowed to sack staff and have their way just because they joined a union.

This is not the time for long talks. The time for meetings is over. It is time to act now and Im glad that you are ready for it. Our demand is simple. Our three brothers should be reinstated now. They have done nothing wrong. They only wanted to exercise their rights under the constitution of the country.

Even the President of Ghana cannot stop us from joining a union not to talk of someone coming from China. No amount of investment can buy our rights. Not in our own country, Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah said.

Tomorrow, GMWU with support from TUC will picket at Kpone close to the premises of Sunon Asogli to demand the reinstatement of all three sacked staff.
Air strikes again shook Sudan's capital Monday while the latest truce talks in Jeddah yielded no progress and a Saudi diplomat said both sides consider themselves "capable of winning the battle".

Sudan was thrown into deadly chaos when fighting broke out on April 15 between the forces of army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy turned rival Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Battles have since killed hundreds, wounded thousands and uprooted hundreds of thousands, leading to fears of security fallout beyond Sudan's borders.

The warring generals have sent representatives to Saudi Arabia for talks on establishing a humanitarian truce in an effort also backed by the United States.

Washington and Riyadh have labelled these "pre-negotiation talks".

By Monday, the discussions had yielded "no major progress", a Saudi diplomat told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"A permanent ceasefire isn't on the table... Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle," the diplomat added.

A closed medical centre in southern Khartoum -- access to health care has been severely affected, the UN says. By - (AFP)

For Kholood Khair, founder of the Khartoum-based think tank Confluence Advisory, the delegations "are there mostly to curry favour with the Saudis and the Americans, rather than to credibly use this platform as a means to reach an agreement."

In Khartoum, a city of five million, terrified residents reported more combat, now in its fourth week, as they tried to cope with power outages and sweltering heat.

A southern Khartoum resident told AFP the family could hear "the sound of airstrikes which appeared to come from near a market in central Khartoum".

'Dangerous everywhere'

The fighting has sparked a mass exodus of foreigners and of Sudanese, in land, air and sea evacuations.

Civilians flee conflict-racked Sudan. By Sophie RAMIS (AFP)

"It's very dangerous everywhere," said Rawaa Hamad, who escaped from Port Sudan on an evacuation flight carrying 71 people to Qatar on Monday.

In Sudan, she said, people endure "a lack of everything -- a lack of water, lack of fuel, lack of medicine, lack of even hospitals and doctors".

The battles in the capital and in other parts of the country have killed more than 750 people and injured over 5,000, according to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

In Sudan's long-troubled western region, almost 200 people have been killed in West Darfur state over the past two weeks, the United Nations said.

It has warned of a widening humanitarian crisis. Fighting has already displaced 335,000 people and created in excess of 120,000 refugees who have fled north into Egypt, west to Chad, and to South Sudan as well as elsewhere, according to the UN.

Egypt's foreign ministry warned of "the great humanitarian tragedy" of the conflict, "directly affecting Sudan's neighbouring countries", in a statement on Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry's visit Monday to Chad and then South Sudan.

The UN top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, has travelled to the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, and a UN official said Griffiths had "asked to join the negotiations" between the warring sides, but his request had not been approved so far.

Mediation efforts

Saudi Arabia is pushing for "a timetable for expanded negotiations to reach a permanent cessation of hostilities", its foreign ministry said.

The Jeddah talks, which are set to continue "in the following days", aim to reach "an effective short-term halt" to the fighting, facilitating aid delivery and restoring basic services, it added.

US ambassador John Godfrey, while not commenting directly on the Jeddah talks, said in a statement: "Our immediate priority is to reach a durable ceasefire" and enable humanitarian assistance.

Large numbers of Sudanese fleeing the fighting gather in the town of Wadi Halfa bordering Egypt. By - (AFP/File)

Multiple truce deals have been declared and quickly violated during the current fighting, in a country with a history of instability.

Mediation efforts have multiplied.

Heavyweights in the pan-Arab bloc are divided on Sudan, with Egypt supporting Burhan and the United Arab Emirates seen to be backing the RSF, according to experts.

The absence of Cairo and Abu Dhabi from the Jeddah talks, according to Sudanese analyst Khair, further dampens hopes for an agreement.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been internally displaced or fled to Sudan's neighbours. By - (AFP)

Saudi and US mediators "have played this very close to their chest", instead of creating a "unified critical mass around these talks", she told AFP.

The African Union -- which holds little leverage after suspending Sudan following a coup in 2021 -- and East African regional bloc IGAD are pushing for discussions mediated by South Sudan's President Salva Kiir.

Dafaallah al-Haj, the envoy of Sudanese army chief Burhan, met with Kiir in South Sudan's capital Juba on Monday. Haj later told reporters that, "Our response to the initiative of Saudi Arabia and the United States doesn't exclude the role of IGAD" and Kiir.

Haj added that if the RSF "rebels put down their arms, we will pardon them."

Since together orchestrating a coup in October 2021 that upended a fragile transition to civilian rule, Burhan and Daglo fell out in a power struggle, most recently over integration of the RSF into the regular army.

burs/fz/jsa/it/ami
A Senegalese court on Monday handed opposition figure Ousmane Sonko a six-month suspended sentence in an appeal of a defamation case that could jeopardise his run for president next year.

Sonko came third in the 2019 presidential election and intends to stand again in 2024, but two court cases could ruin his candidacy.

He received a two-month suspended sentence and a hefty fine in March for defaming Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang and a Dakar appeals court increased the term to six months on Monday, potentially making Sonko ineligible for the vote.

Baboucar Cisse, a lawyer for the minister, told reporters the sentence would rule Sonko out of the 2024 presidential vote if confirmed following a six-day period for appeals.

The court also ordered Sonko to pay 200 million CFA francs (around $330,000) in damages to Niang.

Sonko failed to turn up to Monday's proceedings, after warning he would no longer respond to court summonses without guarantees for his safety.

And when the appeal opened, he was nowhere to be seen, an AFP reporter at the courthouse said.

Prosecutor general Ibrahima Bakhoum called on the court to have Sonko arrested and jailed for two years.

'Judicial banditry'

Sonko is also facing trial later this month for alleged "rape and death threats" over a complaint filed by an employee at a beauty salon where he went for a massage.

"We have never seen in the whole world a citizen summoned to court, who turns himself in, be the subject of so much fierceness, so much brutality and an attempt almost at physical liquidation," Sonko said on social media Sunday.

He appeared to refer to his claims of a March assassination attempt by police during his forced transfer to the Dakar court during initial defamation proceedings.

"It is no longer justice, it is judicial banditry, and that is why I made the decision, still within the framework of my civil disobedience campaign, to no longer collaborate with this justice" without security guarantees, Sonko said Sunday.

In addition to appealing his defamation conviction, Sonko has denied the rape charge, saying he is the victim of a plot by President Macky Sall to torpedo his 2024 candidacy.

The government has denied the accusation, and alleged Sonko has drummed up demonstrations to avoid justice.

Sonko's appointments with the justice system are often sources of tension and near-paralysis of traffic in Dakar, as he usually travels to court with a procession of sympathisers.

The rape charge against Sonko in 2021 helped trigger riots that left at least 12 people dead in the West African country, which is viewed as politically stable in a turbulent region.
Japan Hotel REIT Investment (OTCMKTS:NIPOF  Get Rating) and TPG RE Finance Trust (NYSE:TRTX  Get Rating) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their risk, institutional ownership, profitability, earnings, dividends, valuation and analyst recommendations.

Profitability

This table compares Japan Hotel REIT Investment and TPG RE Finance Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Japan Hotel REIT Investment N/A N/A N/A TPG RE Finance Trust -22.73% 6.49% 1.59%

Institutional and Insider Ownership

56.9% of TPG RE Finance Trust shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.2% of TPG RE Finance Trust shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Valuation and Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Japan Hotel REIT Investment N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A TPG RE Finance Trust $305.71 million 1.42 -$60.07 million ($1.16) -4.84

This table compares Japan Hotel REIT Investment and TPG RE Finance Trusts top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Japan Hotel REIT Investment has higher earnings, but lower revenue than TPG RE Finance Trust.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings for Japan Hotel REIT Investment and TPG RE Finance Trust, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Japan Hotel REIT Investment 0 1 1 0 2.50 TPG RE Finance Trust 0 4 1 1 2.50

TPG RE Finance Trust has a consensus price target of $9.30, indicating a potential upside of 65.78%. Given TPG RE Finance Trusts higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe TPG RE Finance Trust is more favorable than Japan Hotel REIT Investment.

Summary

TPG RE Finance Trust beats Japan Hotel REIT Investment on 7 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Japan Hotel REIT Investment

(Get Rating)

Japan Hotel REIT Investment Corporation(JHR) is the J-REIT that specifies in the hotels. JHR has the basic principle of ensuring the steady growth and stable revenue in mid to long term view to operate asset.

About TPG RE Finance Trust

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TPG RE Finance Trust, Inc. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of commercial real estate finance services. It originates, acquires, and manages commercial mortgage loans and other commercial real estate-related debt instruments in North America. The company was founded on October 24, 2014 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

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American Homes 4 Rent (NYSE:AMH  Get Rating) updated its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $1.58 to $1.64 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.62. American Homes 4 Rent also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $1.58-$1.64 EPS.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on AMH. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their price target on American Homes 4 Rent from $37.00 to $36.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Mizuho reduced their price target on American Homes 4 Rent from $35.00 to $33.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, March 22nd. Evercore ISI raised American Homes 4 Rent from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and set a $36.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Monday, April 10th. Barclays upped their price target on American Homes 4 Rent from $37.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed a market perform rating and set a $31.00 price target on shares of American Homes 4 Rent in a research report on Monday, March 6th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $36.21.

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American Homes 4 Rent Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:AMH traded up $1.48 during trading on Friday, reaching $35.07. 3,381,359 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,032,636. American Homes 4 Rent has a fifty-two week low of $28.78 and a fifty-two week high of $38.94. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63. The firm has a market cap of $12.69 billion, a PE ratio of 40.31, a P/E/G ratio of 3.29 and a beta of 0.67. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $31.54 and a 200-day simple moving average of $31.93.

American Homes 4 Rent Increases Dividend

Insider Activity

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were given a dividend of $0.22 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 14th. This is a boost from American Homes 4 Rents previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. This represents a $0.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.51%. American Homes 4 Rents dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 101.15%.

In other news, CFO Christopher Lau sold 13,281 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $30.22, for a total transaction of $401,351.82. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 82,896 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,505,117.12. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, CFO Christopher Lau sold 13,281 shares of American Homes 4 Rent stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $30.22, for a total value of $401,351.82. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 82,896 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,505,117.12. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, Director Douglas N. Benham acquired 1,156 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 6th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $24.60 per share, for a total transaction of $28,437.60. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 24,951 shares in the company, valued at approximately $613,794.60. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders own 6.32% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On American Homes 4 Rent

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Covestor Ltd boosted its holdings in American Homes 4 Rent by 10,152.4% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 2,153 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $86,000 after buying an additional 2,132 shares during the last quarter. First Manhattan Co. acquired a new position in shares of American Homes 4 Rent during the 4th quarter worth approximately $118,000. Prelude Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of American Homes 4 Rent during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $201,000. MetLife Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of American Homes 4 Rent during the 1st quarter worth approximately $236,000. Finally, Toroso Investments LLC acquired a new position in shares of American Homes 4 Rent during the 1st quarter worth approximately $241,000. 84.29% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About American Homes 4 Rent

(Get Rating)

American Homes 4 Rent operates as a real estate investment trust. It engages in the acquisition, renovation, leasing, and operating of single-family homes as rental properties. The company was founded by Bradley Wayne Hughes, Sr. on October 19, 2012 and is headquartered in Las Vegas, NV.

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Benchmark lowered shares of Arconic (NYSE:ARNC  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report published on Friday morning, The Fly reports.

A number of other brokerages have also commented on ARNC. Wolfe Research lowered Arconic from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on Arconic from $23.00 to $21.00 in a research report on Wednesday, February 22nd. StockNews.com began coverage on Arconic in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Arconic from a neutral rating to a sell rating and lowered their price objective for the stock from $23.00 to $21.00 in a research report on Tuesday, February 28th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and four have given a hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Arconic currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $22.67.

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Arconic Stock Performance

Shares of ARNC stock opened at $29.05 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $25.92 and its 200-day moving average price is $23.45. Arconic has a 12 month low of $16.33 and a 12 month high of $31.24. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -14.24 and a beta of 1.91. The company has a current ratio of 1.52, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.14.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Arconic

Arconic ( NYSE:ARNC Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The basic materials company reported $0.24 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by ($0.06). Arconic had a negative net margin of 2.29% and a positive return on equity of 8.21%. The firm had revenue of $1.93 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.85 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.39 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 12.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts forecast that Arconic will post 1.5 EPS for the current year.

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ARNC. Bornite Capital Management LP bought a new stake in Arconic in the first quarter worth approximately $7,686,000. Citigroup Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Arconic by 5.3% during the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 115,513 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,959,000 after acquiring an additional 5,856 shares in the last quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. increased its holdings in shares of Arconic by 85.7% during the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 22,520 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $577,000 after acquiring an additional 10,393 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can increased its holdings in shares of Arconic by 6.4% during the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 100,243 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,615,000 after acquiring an additional 6,055 shares in the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Arconic by 55.2% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 56,860 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,457,000 after acquiring an additional 20,217 shares in the last quarter. 93.90% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Arconic

(Get Rating)

Arconic Corporation manufactures and sells aluminum sheets, plates, extrusions, and architectural products in the United States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Russia, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Rolled Products, Building and Construction Systems, and Extrusions.

Further Reading

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Shares of Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. (NYSE:ARGO  Get Rating) saw unusually-high trading volume on Monday . Approximately 855,873 shares changed hands during trading, an increase of 36% from the previous sessions volume of 629,251 shares.The stock last traded at $29.43 and had previously closed at $29.40.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

ARGO has been the subject of several recent research reports. Raymond James downgraded shares of Argo Group International from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 28th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Argo Group International in a research note on Friday, April 21st. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, Compass Point downgraded shares of Argo Group International from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $30.00 price objective for the company. in a report on Monday, March 13th.

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Argo Group International Trading Up 0.0 %

The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $29.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 0.63 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.03 billion, a PE ratio of -5.54 and a beta of 1.03.

Institutional Trading of Argo Group International

Argo Group International ( NYSE:ARGO Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 27th. The company reported ($2.69) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($1.62) by ($1.07). The company had revenue of $379.40 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $504.90 million. Argo Group International had a negative net margin of 9.98% and a positive return on equity of 0.06%. Equities research analysts predict that Argo Group International Holdings, Ltd. will post 2.85 earnings per share for the current year.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in ARGO. Captrust Financial Advisors raised its position in Argo Group International by 2.3% in the 2nd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 22,288 shares of the companys stock worth $822,000 after purchasing an additional 504 shares during the period. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank raised its position in Argo Group International by 17.3% in the 4th quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 4,760 shares of the companys stock worth $123,000 after purchasing an additional 701 shares during the period. Mutual of America Capital Management LLC raised its position in Argo Group International by 0.8% in the 3rd quarter. Mutual of America Capital Management LLC now owns 89,965 shares of the companys stock worth $1,733,000 after purchasing an additional 743 shares during the period. Credit Suisse AG raised its position in Argo Group International by 2.5% in the 4th quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 31,591 shares of the companys stock worth $817,000 after purchasing an additional 763 shares during the period. Finally, Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its position in Argo Group International by 13.9% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 6,715 shares of the companys stock worth $248,000 after purchasing an additional 822 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 89.92% of the companys stock.

Argo Group International Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. engages in the provision of underwriting property and casualty insurance and reinsurance products. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Operations, International Operations, and Run-off Lines. The U.S. Operations segment include distribution through retail, wholesale, and managing general brokers/agents in the specialty insurance market.

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Bank of Queensland Limited (OTCMKTS:BKQNY  Get Rating) declared a dividend on Thursday, May 4th, investing.com reports. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 10th will be given a dividend of 0.2369 per share on Friday, June 16th. This represents a dividend yield of 6.2%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 9th.

Bank of Queensland Stock Up 0.7 %

OTCMKTS BKQNY opened at $8.35 on Monday. Bank of Queensland has a 1-year low of $8.29 and a 1-year high of $10.84. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $8.80 and its 200-day simple moving average is $9.38.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded shares of Bank of Queensland from a neutral rating to an underweight rating in a research report on Friday, April 21st.

About Bank of Queensland

Bank of Queensland Ltd. engages in the provision of financial services to the community. It operates through the following segments: Retail Banking, BOQ Business, and Other. The Retail Banking segment offers retail banking solutions to customers managed through its owner managed and corporate branch network, ME Bank and Virgin Money distribution channels, and third-party intermediaries.

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Shares of Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:BX  Get Rating) have been given a consensus rating of Moderate Buy by the sixteen research firms that are presently covering the stock, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month target price among brokerages that have covered the stock in the last year is $103.04.

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. CICC Research started coverage on Blackstone in a research report on Thursday, January 12th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Blackstone from $98.00 to $109.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, April 21st. Piper Sandler cut their price target on Blackstone from $111.00 to $107.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, April 21st. Oppenheimer cut their target price on Blackstone from $111.00 to $106.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Blackstone from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their target price for the company from $104.00 to $105.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 24th.

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Blackstone Stock Performance

Blackstone stock opened at $82.16 on Monday. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $86.07 and a 200 day simple moving average of $86.83. The company has a quick ratio of 0.97, a current ratio of 0.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69. The stock has a market capitalization of $58.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 100.20, a P/E/G ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 1.50. Blackstone has a 12-month low of $71.72 and a 12-month high of $123.18.

Blackstone Cuts Dividend

Blackstone ( NYSE:BX Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, April 20th. The asset manager reported $0.97 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.97. The firm had revenue of $1.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.44 billion. Blackstone had a net margin of 12.92% and a return on equity of 18.08%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 73.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.55 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that Blackstone will post 4.35 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 1st will be issued a $0.82 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 28th. This represents a $3.28 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.99%. Blackstones dividend payout ratio is currently 400.00%.

Insider Activity

In other Blackstone news, Director Ruth Porat purchased 277 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 13th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $92.61 per share, with a total value of $25,652.97. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 30,851 shares in the company, valued at $2,857,111.11. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, Director Ruth Porat acquired 277 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 13th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $92.61 per share, with a total value of $25,652.97. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 30,851 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,857,111.11. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, major shareholder Holdings I/Ii Gp L. Blackstone sold 28,562,652 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $8.71, for a total value of $248,780,698.92. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 57,028 shares in the company, valued at $496,713.88. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have bought 10,950,338 shares of company stock valued at $18,744,064 and have sold 140,632,216 shares valued at $1,725,831,950. 1.00% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Blackstone

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Whalerock Point Partners LLC bought a new stake in Blackstone during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $282,571,000. Mach 1 Financial Group LLC bought a new position in Blackstone during the 3rd quarter worth $25,000. HWG Holdings LP acquired a new position in shares of Blackstone in the third quarter worth approximately $28,000. Trust Co. of Vermont raised its holdings in Blackstone by 133.3% during the 3rd quarter. Trust Co. of Vermont now owns 350 shares of the asset managers stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ameliora Wealth Management Ltd. bought a new stake in Blackstone during the third quarter valued at $29,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.39% of the companys stock.

Blackstone Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Blackstone, Inc engages in the provision of investment and fund management services. It operates through the following segments: Real Estate, Private Equity, Credit and Insurance, and Hedge Fund Solutions. The Real Estate segment includes management of opportunistic real estate funds, Core+ real estate funds, high-yield real estate debt funds, and liquid real estate debt funds.

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Sibanye Stillwater Limited (NYSE:SBSW  Get Rating) has been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the six brokerages that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $13.48.

A number of research firms have weighed in on SBSW. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their target price on Sibanye Stillwater from $13.00 to $9.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Friday, March 3rd. Royal Bank of Canada upgraded Sibanye Stillwater from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and decreased their price objective for the company from $11.00 to $10.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 22nd.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Sibanye Stillwater

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in SBSW. First Personal Financial Services acquired a new stake in Sibanye Stillwater during the 3rd quarter worth about $33,000. Tradition Wealth Management LLC grew its position in Sibanye Stillwater by 991.7% during the 4th quarter. Tradition Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,275 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 2,975 shares during the period. Natixis acquired a new stake in Sibanye Stillwater during the 4th quarter worth about $37,000. Money Concepts Capital Corp acquired a new stake in shares of Sibanye Stillwater during the 4th quarter valued at about $41,000. Finally, Acadian Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Sibanye Stillwater during the 1st quarter valued at about $45,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 6.81% of the companys stock.

Sibanye Stillwater Stock Performance

Sibanye Stillwater Cuts Dividend

Sibanye Stillwater stock opened at $9.61 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $8.53 and a two-hundred day moving average of $9.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 1.70 and a current ratio of 3.01. Sibanye Stillwater has a twelve month low of $7.82 and a twelve month high of $13.38.

The company also recently announced a Semi-Annual dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 6th. Investors of record on Friday, March 24th were paid a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 23rd. This represents a yield of 8.3%.

About Sibanye Stillwater

(Get Rating)

Sibanye Stillwater Ltd. engages in the provision of precious metals mining services. Its portfolio includes the platinum group metal (PGM) operations in the United States, South Africa, and Zimbabwe; gold operations and projects in South Africa; and copper, gold and PGM exploration properties in North and South America.

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Berenberg Bank restated their buy rating on shares of Centamin (LON:CEY  Get Rating) in a research note issued to investors on Thursday, MarketBeat reports. The firm currently has a GBX 145 ($1.81) price target on the mining companys stock.

A number of other research firms also recently weighed in on CEY. Bank of America reaffirmed a buy rating and set a GBX 150 ($1.87) price target on shares of Centamin in a research note on Monday, January 23rd. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on shares of Centamin from GBX 130 ($1.62) to GBX 135 ($1.69) and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, April 13th.

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Centamin Stock Up 0.8 %

Shares of LON CEY opened at GBX 110.80 ($1.38) on Thursday. Centamin has a 12-month low of GBX 74.18 ($0.93) and a 12-month high of GBX 127.60 ($1.59). The company has a market capitalization of 1.29 billion, a PE ratio of 2,216.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -1.53 and a beta of 0.53. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 2.78 and a quick ratio of 2.09. The firms 50-day moving average is GBX 104.76 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 105.98.

Centamin Announces Dividend

Insider Activity

The firm also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 23rd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 1st will be issued a $0.03 dividend. This represents a yield of 1.94%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 1st. Centamins dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 8,000.00%.

In other news, insider Martin Horgan bought 99,314 shares of Centamin stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average price of GBX 101 ($1.26) per share, for a total transaction of 100,307.14 ($125,321.26). In other Centamin news, insider Ross Jerrard bought 52,490 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 100 ($1.25) per share, for a total transaction of 52,490 ($65,579.71). Also, insider Martin Horgan bought 99,314 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 101 ($1.26) per share, with a total value of 100,307.14 ($125,321.26). 0.14% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Centamin Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Centamin plc engages in the exploration, mining, and development of precious metals in Egypt, Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, Jersey, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The company explores for gold deposits. Its principal asset is the Sukari Gold Mine project, which covers an area of approximately 160 square kilometers located in the Eastern Desert of Egypt.

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Danaher Co. (NYSE:DHR  Get Rating) Director Walter G. Lohr sold 3,490 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, May 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $240.88, for a total value of $840,671.20. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 12,115 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,918,261.20. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website.

Danaher Price Performance

DHR traded down $3.20 during trading on Monday, reaching $239.24. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,505,057 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,821,952. The company has a market cap of $176.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.62, a PEG ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 0.80. The company has a quick ratio of 1.51, a current ratio of 1.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $246.69 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $256.54. Danaher Co. has a 1 year low of $227.00 and a 1 year high of $303.82.

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Danaher (NYSE:DHR  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The conglomerate reported $2.36 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.26 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $7.17 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.06 billion. Danaher had a net margin of 22.40% and a return on equity of 16.70%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 6.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.76 earnings per share. As a group, analysts anticipate that Danaher Co. will post 9.54 EPS for the current year.

Danaher Increases Dividend

Analysts Set New Price Targets

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 28th. Investors of record on Friday, March 31st were given a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 30th. This is a boost from Danahers previous quarterly dividend of $0.25. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.45%. Danahers payout ratio is 11.64%.

Several research firms have recently issued reports on DHR. Robert W. Baird reduced their target price on Danaher from $309.00 to $275.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. William Blair reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Danaher in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. SVB Securities began coverage on Danaher in a report on Monday, May 1st. They issued an outperform rating and a $300.00 target price for the company. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their target price on Danaher from $289.00 to $260.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, Citigroup reduced their price objective on Danaher from $325.00 to $300.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Danaher presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $294.06.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Danaher

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Arkadios Wealth Advisors raised its holdings in Danaher by 0.9% during the 4th quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors now owns 4,176 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,108,000 after buying an additional 37 shares during the period. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Danaher by 9.7% during the 3rd quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 428 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $111,000 after buying an additional 38 shares during the period. Madison Wealth Partners Inc raised its holdings in Danaher by 0.7% during the 4th quarter. Madison Wealth Partners Inc now owns 5,284 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,402,000 after buying an additional 38 shares during the period. Sandy Cove Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Danaher by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Sandy Cove Advisors LLC now owns 5,540 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,431,000 after buying an additional 40 shares during the period. Finally, Donaldson Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Danaher by 3.3% during the 4th quarter. Donaldson Capital Management LLC now owns 1,260 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $334,000 after buying an additional 40 shares during the period. 77.26% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Danaher

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Danaher Corp. engages in the design, manufacture, and marketing of professional, medical, industrial, and commercial products and services. It operates through the following segments: Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Diagnostics, and Environmental and Applied Solutions. The Biotechnology segment includes the bioprocessing and discovery and medical businesses and offers a range of tools, consumables, and services.

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Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. raised its position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (NYSE:CP  Get Rating) (TSE:CP) by 1.3% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 463,326 shares of the transportation companys stock after buying an additional 5,842 shares during the quarter. Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.s holdings in Canadian Pacific Kansas City were worth $34,537,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of CP. Cetera Investment Advisers raised its stake in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 16,828 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $1,389,000 after buying an additional 559 shares in the last quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC raised its position in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 69.1% in the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 5,539 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $457,000 after acquiring an additional 2,263 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 2.4% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 30,249,662 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $2,496,807,000 after acquiring an additional 695,215 shares during the period. Baird Financial Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 5.1% during the 1st quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 49,524 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $4,087,000 after purchasing an additional 2,417 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. increased its holdings in shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City by 116.4% in the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 14,274 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,178,000 after purchasing an additional 7,678 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 72.31% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages have issued reports on CP. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $90.00 to $89.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. BMO Capital Markets began coverage on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus decreased their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from $78.00 to $75.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Finally, CIBC cut their price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$128.00 to C$125.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 1st. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Canadian Pacific Kansas City presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $89.21.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Down 0.1 %

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Cuts Dividend

CP traded down $0.10 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $80.88. 635,584 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,930,639. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $77.25 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $77.25. The company has a market cap of $75.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.81, a PEG ratio of 2.28 and a beta of 1.02. Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited has a fifty-two week low of $65.17 and a fifty-two week high of $82.96. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46, a current ratio of 0.66 and a quick ratio of 0.56.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Investors of record on Friday, June 30th will be issued a dividend of $0.141 per share. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.70%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 29th. Canadian Pacific Kansas Citys payout ratio is 18.54%.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City Company Profile

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. provides rail freight transportation services. It offers rail services linking Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company was founded on June 22, 2001 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. increased its holdings in NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:NEE  Get Rating) by 0.8% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 2,368,296 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 18,789 shares during the period. NextEra Energy comprises about 2.4% of Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.s portfolio, making the stock its 3rd largest holding. Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.s holdings in NextEra Energy were worth $197,990,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of NextEra Energy by 2.1% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 189,253,007 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $14,839,329,000 after purchasing an additional 3,870,385 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its stake in shares of NextEra Energy by 1.6% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 19,626,941 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,538,947,000 after acquiring an additional 315,356 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. grew its stake in shares of NextEra Energy by 4.8% during the 3rd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 10,622,137 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $832,882,000 after acquiring an additional 482,717 shares during the period. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. grew its stake in shares of NextEra Energy by 1.4% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. now owns 10,087,751 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $790,981,000 after acquiring an additional 141,691 shares during the period. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of NextEra Energy by 3.1% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 9,309,930 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $788,644,000 after acquiring an additional 282,012 shares during the period. 76.17% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Armando Pimentel, Jr. bought 13,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 21st. The shares were purchased at an average price of $75.44 per share, with a total value of $995,808.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 129,230 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,749,111.20. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other NextEra Energy news, CEO Armando Pimentel, Jr. acquired 13,200 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 21st. The shares were bought at an average price of $75.44 per share, with a total value of $995,808.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 129,230 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,749,111.20. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director James Lawrence Camaren acquired 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 9th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $73.50 per share, for a total transaction of $147,000.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 147,930 shares in the company, valued at $10,872,855. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.38% of the companys stock.

NextEra Energy Price Performance

Shares of NEE traded up $0.43 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $75.94. 1,475,575 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 8,403,018. The company has a market cap of $153.66 billion, a PE ratio of 22.47, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.90 and a beta of 0.47. NextEra Energy, Inc. has a 52-week low of $67.22 and a 52-week high of $91.35. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $75.94 and a two-hundred day moving average of $78.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13, a quick ratio of 0.46 and a current ratio of 0.53.

NextEra Energy (NYSE:NEE  Get Rating) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The utilities provider reported $0.84 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.75 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $6.72 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.78 billion. NextEra Energy had a return on equity of 12.44% and a net margin of 26.97%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.74 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that NextEra Energy, Inc. will post 3.11 earnings per share for the current year.

NextEra Energy Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 28th were given a dividend of $0.4675 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, February 27th. This represents a $1.87 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.46%. This is an increase from NextEra Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.43. NextEra Energys payout ratio is currently 55.65%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on NEE. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price objective on NextEra Energy from $110.00 to $100.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 2nd. StockNews.com raised NextEra Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, March 10th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on NextEra Energy from $94.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price target on NextEra Energy from $95.00 to $90.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, Erste Group Bank raised NextEra Energy from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $92.50.

About NextEra Energy

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NextEra Energy, Inc engages in the provision of renewable energy. It operates through the following segments: FPL and NEER. The FPL segment involves the generation, transmission, distribution, and sale of electric energy in Florida. The NEER segment produces electricity from clean and renewable sources, including wind and solar.

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Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust (NYSE:EVN  Get Rating) announced a monthly dividend on Tuesday, May 2nd, Wall Street Journal reports. Investors of record on Thursday, May 11th will be given a dividend of 0.041 per share by the investment management company on Thursday, May 18th. This represents a $0.49 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.87%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, May 10th.

Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust Stock Up 0.8 %

EVN opened at $10.11 on Monday. Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust has a 52 week low of $9.34 and a 52 week high of $12.02. The businesss 50 day moving average is $10.02 and its two-hundred day moving average is $10.09.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Nomura Holdings Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at $109,000. Captrust Financial Advisors acquired a new position in shares of Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at $118,000. HighTower Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust in the 1st quarter valued at $135,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp acquired a new position in shares of Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust in the 1st quarter valued at $136,000. Finally, Kingsview Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust in the 2nd quarter valued at $220,000.

Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust Company Profile

Eaton Vance Municipal Income Trust is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. Its investment objective is to provide current income exempt from regular federal income tax. The company was founded on January 29, 1999 and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

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Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. cut its holdings in shares of Extra Space Storage Inc. (NYSE:EXR  Get Rating) by 5.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 828,496 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 44,700 shares during the period. Extra Space Storage makes up approximately 1.5% of Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.s holdings, making the stock its 20th biggest position. Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co.s holdings in Extra Space Storage were worth $120,220,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust lifted its stake in Extra Space Storage by 80.0% during the third quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 144 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 64 shares during the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC lifted its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 5.6% in the 1st quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 1,404 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $289,000 after acquiring an additional 74 shares in the last quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund lifted its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund now owns 19,028 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,801,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. Moody National Bank Trust Division lifted its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 6.3% in the 4th quarter. Moody National Bank Trust Division now owns 1,380 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $203,000 after acquiring an additional 82 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CAPROCK Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Extra Space Storage by 5.6% in the 3rd quarter. CAPROCK Group Inc. now owns 1,853 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $320,000 after acquiring an additional 99 shares in the last quarter. 95.32% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Extra Space Storage Stock Down 0.3 %

Extra Space Storage stock traded down $0.48 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $154.26. The company had a trading volume of 158,336 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,318,627. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.83 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.33 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.82, a current ratio of 0.27 and a quick ratio of 0.54. The firms fifty day moving average is $157.31 and its 200-day moving average is $156.74. Extra Space Storage Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $139.97 and a fifty-two week high of $216.52.

Extra Space Storage Increases Dividend

Extra Space Storage ( NYSE:EXR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 22nd. The real estate investment trust reported $1.52 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.08 by ($0.56). Extra Space Storage had a return on equity of 21.62% and a net margin of 43.79%. The business had revenue of $506.70 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $433.39 million. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.91 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 18.4% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts forecast that Extra Space Storage Inc. will post 8.52 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were paid a dividend of $1.62 per share. This is a positive change from Extra Space Storages previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 14th. This represents a $6.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.20%. Extra Space Storages dividend payout ratio is 101.89%.

Insider Transactions at Extra Space Storage

In other news, CMO Samrat Sondhi sold 6,290 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $161.88, for a total transaction of $1,018,225.20. Following the transaction, the chief marketing officer now owns 82,653 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,379,867.64. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, CMO Samrat Sondhi sold 6,290 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $161.88, for a total value of $1,018,225.20. Following the transaction, the chief marketing officer now directly owns 82,653 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,379,867.64. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Gwyn Goodson Mcneal sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.00, for a total transaction of $246,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 32,290 shares in the company, valued at $5,295,560. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 13,440 shares of company stock worth $2,172,313 in the last 90 days. 1.52% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. KeyCorp reduced their price target on shares of Extra Space Storage from $190.00 to $172.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Truist Financial upped their price target on shares of Extra Space Storage from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Wolfe Research downgraded shares of Extra Space Storage from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, January 18th. They noted that the move was a valuation call. Bank of America assumed coverage on shares of Extra Space Storage in a research report on Monday. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Extra Space Storage from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating, three have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $170.56.

Extra Space Storage Company Profile

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Extra Space Storage, Inc is a real estate investment trust. It operates through the following segments: Self-Storage Operations and Tenant Reinsurance. The Self-Storage Operations segment includes rental operations of wholly-owned stores. The Tenant Reinsurance segment includes reinsurance of risks relating to the loss of goods stored by tenants in stores.

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Fastly, Inc. (NYSE:FSLY  Get Rating)s stock price was up 7.4% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $12.80 and last traded at $12.65. Approximately 2,609,805 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 39% from the average daily volume of 4,310,309 shares. The stock had previously closed at $11.78.

Analyst Ratings Changes

FSLY has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Piper Sandler upped their price target on shares of Fastly from $10.00 to $14.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, February 16th. Credit Suisse Group upped their price target on shares of Fastly from $9.50 to $11.50 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Bank of America increased their price objective on shares of Fastly from $16.00 to $26.50 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. William Blair reissued a market perform rating on shares of Fastly in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada increased their target price on shares of Fastly from $6.00 to $9.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 16th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating, three have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $16.00.

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Fastly Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.75, a current ratio of 4.18 and a quick ratio of 4.18. The firm has a market cap of $1.58 billion, a PE ratio of -8.93 and a beta of 1.31. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $15.29 and a 200-day simple moving average of $11.73.

Insider Buying and Selling

Fastly ( NYSE:FSLY Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 15th. The company reported ($0.33) EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.42) by $0.09. The business had revenue of $119.32 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $114.39 million. Fastly had a negative return on equity of 20.15% and a negative net margin of 38.22%. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Fastly, Inc. will post -1.41 EPS for the current year.

In related news, insider Artur Bergman sold 56,769 shares of Fastly stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.74, for a total value of $893,544.06. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 6,655,114 shares in the company, valued at approximately $104,751,494.36. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In related news, EVP Brett Shirk sold 3,943 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.93, for a total transaction of $54,925.99. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 224,097 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,121,671.21. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Artur Bergman sold 56,769 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $15.74, for a total value of $893,544.06. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 6,655,114 shares of the companys stock, valued at $104,751,494.36. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 268,788 shares of company stock worth $4,081,063. 8.90% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of Fastly

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of FSLY. Meeder Asset Management Inc. grew its position in Fastly by 13,926.9% in the 4th quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,647 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 3,621 shares during the last quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC bought a new position in Fastly in the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Signaturefd LLC grew its position in Fastly by 78.5% in the 4th quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 4,677 shares of the companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 2,057 shares during the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. grew its position in Fastly by 482.2% in the 4th quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 6,404 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,000 after acquiring an additional 5,304 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Penserra Capital Management LLC grew its position in Fastly by 50.0% in the 1st quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 3,072 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,000 after acquiring an additional 1,024 shares during the last quarter. 60.74% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Fastly

(Get Rating)

Fastly, Inc provides real-time content delivery network services. It offers edge compute, edge delivery, edge security, edge applications like load balancing and image optimization, video on demand, and managed edge delivery. The company was founded by Artur Bergman, Tyler McMullen, Simon Wistow, and Gil Penchina in March 2011 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

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Fiera Capital Corp boosted its position in Fortis Inc. (NYSE:FTS  Get Rating) by 2.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 683,213 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 14,135 shares during the period. Fiera Capital Corps holdings in Fortis were worth $27,359,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Cigna Investments Inc. New lifted 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 acquiring an additional 621 shares during the last quarter. Aviva PLC lifted its position in shares of Fortis by 6.4% during the third quarter. Aviva PLC now owns 415,468 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $15,856,000 after purchasing an additional 25,113 shares during the last quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp boosted its stake in shares of Fortis by 6.1% during the third quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 97,004 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,681,000 after purchasing an additional 5,613 shares during the period. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC grew its holdings in shares of Fortis by 1,306.8% in the third quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC now owns 213,213 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $8,101,000 after purchasing an additional 198,057 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Montrusco Bolton Investments Inc. increased its stake in Fortis by 102.4% in the 4th quarter. Montrusco Bolton Investments Inc. now owns 413,784 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $16,546,000 after buying an additional 209,315 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 49.59% of the companys stock.

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Fortis Stock Up 1.3 %

NYSE:FTS traded up $0.61 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $46.06. The companys stock had a trading volume of 79,318 shares, compared to its average volume of 542,346. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $42.37 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $41.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 0.55 and a current ratio of 0.68. The company has a market capitalization of $22.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.47, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.75 and a beta of 0.44. Fortis Inc. has a 12 month low of $34.76 and a 12 month high of $50.89.

Fortis Increases Dividend

Fortis ( NYSE:FTS Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 10th. The utilities provider reported $0.53 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.53. The business 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 6.63% and a net margin of 12.42%. Equities analysts predict that Fortis Inc. will post 2.16 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, May 17th will be given a dividend of $0.4211 per share. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.66%. This is a positive change from Fortiss previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 16th. Fortiss dividend payout ratio is presently 76.13%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have issued reports on FTS. Royal Bank of Canada reissued a sector perform rating and issued a $65.00 price objective on shares of Fortis in a research report on Friday, March 24th. National Bank Financial boosted their price target on Fortis from C$55.00 to C$56.00 in a report on Monday, February 13th. StockNews.com began coverage on Fortis in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Scotiabank upped their target price on Fortis from C$57.00 to C$58.00 in a report on Monday, January 23rd. Finally, CIBC increased their price target on Fortis from C$55.00 to C$57.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 10th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Fortis currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $58.75.

Fortis Profile

(Get Rating)

Fortis, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the electric and gas utility industry. It operates under the Regulated Utilities and Non-Regulated segments. The Regulated Utilities segment includes ITC Holdings (ITC), UNS Energy Corporation (UNS Energy), Central Hudson, FortisBC Energy, FortisAlberta, and FortisBC Electric.

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Fiera Capital Corp lessened its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE:BAM  Get Rating) (TSE:BAM.A) by 75.1% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,542,466 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 4,663,740 shares during the quarter. Fiera Capital Corp owned about 0.37% of Brookfield Asset Management worth $44,199,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 166.2% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 7,051,145 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $398,883,000 after purchasing an additional 4,402,115 shares during the last quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board grew its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 449.1% during the 3rd quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 2,170,780 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $89,277,000 after buying an additional 1,775,480 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Brookfield Asset Management by 3.2% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 46,380,575 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,896,501,000 after acquiring an additional 1,426,257 shares during the last quarter. BRITISH COLUMBIA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Corp raised its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 18.6% during the 3rd quarter. BRITISH COLUMBIA INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Corp now owns 3,678,315 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $150,282,000 after acquiring an additional 576,076 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Balyasny Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 106.4% during the 3rd quarter. Balyasny Asset Management LLC now owns 1,078,857 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $44,114,000 after acquiring an additional 556,050 shares during the last quarter.

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Insider Transactions at Brookfield Asset Management

In other Brookfield Asset Management news, Director Multi-Strategy Mast Brookfield sold 24,744 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.96, for a total value of $295,938.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 21,104,923 shares in the company, valued at $252,414,879.08. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 11.00% of the companys stock.

Brookfield Asset Management Trading Up 0.8 %

Shares of NYSE BAM traded up $0.25 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $32.60. The companys stock had a trading volume of 54,514 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,674,629. Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. has a 12-month low of $26.76 and a 12-month high of $36.50. The businesss 50 day moving average is $32.33 and its two-hundred day moving average is $34.79.

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM  Get Rating) (TSE:BAM.A) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 8th. The financial services provider reported $0.31 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $958.10 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $21.81 billion. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. will post 1.4 earnings per share for the current year.

Brookfield Asset Management Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 28th were issued a $0.32 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, February 27th. This is an increase from Brookfield Asset Managements previous quarterly dividend of $0.14. This represents a $1.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.93%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on BAM shares. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut shares of Brookfield Asset Management to an underperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Brookfield Asset Management from $35.00 to $39.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $40.00 price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $43.57.

Brookfield Asset Management Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. provides alternative asset management services. Its renewable power and transition business includes the ownership, operation, and development of hydroelectric, wind, solar, and energy transition power generating assets. The company's infrastructure business engages in the ownership, operation, and development of utilities, transport, midstream, data and sustainable resource assets.

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Fiera Capital Corp decreased its position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSEARCA:EFA  Get Rating) by 1.5% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 324,581 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 4,951 shares during the quarter. Fiera Capital Corps holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF were worth $21,305,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Board of Trustees of The Leland Stanford Junior University grew its position in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 55.4% during the 3rd quarter. Board of Trustees of The Leland Stanford Junior University now owns 8,785,451 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $492,073,000 after buying an additional 3,132,027 shares during the period. CFS Investment Advisory Services LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 6,542.8% in the 3rd quarter. CFS Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 2,804,140 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $735,000 after purchasing an additional 2,761,927 shares during the period. WCM Investment Management LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 431.8% in the 4th quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 2,884,902 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $189,365,000 after purchasing an additional 2,342,388 shares during the period. Toronto Dominion Bank grew its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 2,717.6% in the 3rd quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 2,358,345 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $132,064,000 after purchasing an additional 2,274,645 shares during the period. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 361.6% in the 3rd quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,214,925 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $124,058,000 after purchasing an additional 1,735,125 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 80.78% of the companys stock.

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iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA EFA traded up $0.12 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $74.00. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,042,336 shares, compared to its average volume of 19,162,850. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $71.12 and its 200 day simple moving average is $68.32. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF has a twelve month low of $54.61 and a twelve month high of $74.05.

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Funds investment objective is to seek investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, MSCI EAFE Index (the Index). The Index has been developed by MSCI Inc as an equity benchmark for its international stock performance.

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Founders Financial Securities LLC raised its stake in Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Get Rating) by 9.6% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 4,916 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 430 shares during the quarter. Founders Financial Securities LLCs holdings in Aflac were worth $354,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of AFL. Panagora Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in Aflac by 36.2% during the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 23,941 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,542,000 after acquiring an additional 6,369 shares during the period. Blair William & Co. IL grew its holdings in Aflac by 6.8% in the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 17,268 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,112,000 after purchasing an additional 1,102 shares during the last quarter. Aviva PLC grew its holdings in Aflac by 0.7% in the first quarter. Aviva PLC now owns 210,634 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $13,563,000 after purchasing an additional 1,503 shares during the last quarter. Dakota Wealth Management acquired a new stake in Aflac in the first quarter valued at $428,000. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Aflac by 7.3% in the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 6,142 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $396,000 after purchasing an additional 417 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 66.22% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Aflac

In related news, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 19,291 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on 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 completion of the sale, the director now owns 87,598 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,163,395.28. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other news, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.45, for a total transaction of $32,225.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 19,269 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,241,887.05. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 19,291 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $70.36, for a total transaction 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 disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 97,054 shares of company stock worth $6,672,094. Insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Aflac Trading Up 0.5 %

AFL has been the topic of several research reports. Citigroup lowered their target price on Aflac from $73.00 to $69.00 in a report on Thursday, April 27th. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on Aflac from $77.00 to $72.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on Aflac from $65.00 to $70.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Aflac in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, VNET Group restated a maintains rating on shares of Aflac in a research note on Thursday, April 27th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Aflac has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $71.22.

Aflac stock opened at $67.95 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.06 and a current ratio of 0.05. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $65.58 and its 200-day simple moving average is $68.42. The firm has a market capitalization of $41.06 billion, a PE ratio of 9.75, a PEG ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.93. Aflac Incorporated has a 52 week low of $52.07 and a 52 week high of $74.01.

Aflac (NYSE:AFL  Get Rating) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.55 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.40 by $0.15. Aflac had a return on equity of 15.25% and a net margin of 22.90%. The business had revenue of $4.80 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.61 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.42 EPS. Aflacs revenue was down 7.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts forecast that Aflac Incorporated will post 5.74 earnings per share for the current year.

Aflac Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, May 17th will be given a dividend of $0.42 per share. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.47%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 16th. Aflacs payout ratio is 24.24%.

About Aflac

(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.

Further Reading

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Dai Nippon Printing (OTCMKTS:DNPLY  Get Rating) and Semperit Aktiengesellschaft (OTCMKTS:SEIGY  Get Rating) are both industrial products companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, valuation, profitability and risk.

Dividends

Dai Nippon Printing pays an annual dividend of $0.17 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.2%. Semperit Aktiengesellschaft pays an annual dividend of $0.26 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.1%. Dai Nippon Printing pays out 10.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Semperit Aktiengesellschaft pays out 10.2% 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. Semperit Aktiengesellschaft is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

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Profitability

This table compares Dai Nippon Printing and Semperit Aktiengesellschafts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Dai Nippon Printing N/A N/A N/A Semperit Aktiengesellschaft N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Ratings

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Dai Nippon Printing 0 0 0 0 N/A Semperit Aktiengesellschaft 0 1 0 0 2.00

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for Dai Nippon Printing and Semperit Aktiengesellschaft, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

0.0% of Dai Nippon Printing shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Dai Nippon Printing and Semperit Aktiengesellschafts top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Dai Nippon Printing $11.97 billion 0.71 $864.92 million $1.56 9.38 Semperit Aktiengesellschaft $1.44 billion 0.36 $292.22 million $2.55 2.50

Dai Nippon Printing has higher revenue and earnings than Semperit Aktiengesellschaft. Semperit Aktiengesellschaft is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Dai Nippon Printing, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Volatility and Risk

Dai Nippon Printing has a beta of 0.56, suggesting that its share price is 44% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Semperit Aktiengesellschaft has a beta of 0.74, suggesting that its share price is 26% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Dai Nippon Printing beats Semperit Aktiengesellschaft on 5 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Dai Nippon Printing

(Get Rating)

Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. engages in the provision of publishing and commercial printing services. It operates through the following segments: Information Communication, Lifestyle and Industrial Supplies, Electronics, and Beverages. The Information Communication segment involves in the manufacture and sale of publications, commercial printing materials, business forms, and educational and publications distribution. The Lifestyle and Industrial Supplies segment offers packaging materials, interior and exterior construction materials, photographic materials, and industrial supplies. The Electronics segment handles precision electronic components and other products. The Beverages segment produces and sells carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. The company was founded on October 9, 1876 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

About Semperit Aktiengesellschaft

(Get Rating)

Semperit Aktiengesellschaft Holding develops, produces, and sells rubber products for the medical and industrial sectors worldwide. It operates through five segments: Sempermed, Semperflex, Sempertrans, Semperform, and Semperseal. The Sempermed segment manufactures examination and surgical gloves in the medical area, as well as protective gloves for industrial, commercial, and private use. The Semperflex segment develops, produces, and sells hydraulic and industrial hoses that are used in the construction and transport industry, as well as in mining; and agricultural machinery. The Sempertrans segment provides textile and steel-cord conveyor belts for use in mining, steel, cement, civil engineering, and transport industries, as well as in power stations. The Semperform segment offers escalator handrails; ropeway rubber rings; anti-vibration membranes for skis and snowboards; and customised injection moulding and extrusion parts with sealing or damping functions. The Semperseal segment provides elastomer and sealing profiles for windows, doors, and facades; and elastomer and wear-resistant protective sheeting. The company was founded in 1824 and is headquartered in Vienna, Austria.

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Interactive Financial Advisors trimmed its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU  Get Rating) by 3.0% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 21,348 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 658 shares during the quarter. Interactive Financial Advisors holdings in iShares Gold Trust were worth $738,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Jane Street Group LLC purchased a new stake in iShares Gold Trust in the 3rd quarter valued at $264,003,000. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its stake in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 93.3% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 4,573,365 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $150,602,000 after purchasing an additional 2,207,676 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 24.1% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 7,397,408 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $272,323,000 after purchasing an additional 1,436,094 shares during the last quarter. GM Advisory Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 107.9% in the 1st quarter. GM Advisory Group Inc. now owns 2,486,906 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $91,593,000 after purchasing an additional 1,290,420 shares during the last quarter. Finally, UBS Group AG lifted its stake in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 12.1% in the 4th quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 8,624,217 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $298,312,000 after purchasing an additional 931,930 shares during the last quarter. 62.40% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares Gold Trust Stock Performance

Shares of iShares Gold Trust stock traded up $0.18 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $38.42. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,373,055 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,334,714. iShares Gold Trust has a twelve month low of $30.69 and a twelve month high of $39.04. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $37.09 and a 200-day moving average of $35.24.

iShares Gold Trust Company Profile

iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust.

Further Reading

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InterOcean Capital Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF (NYSEARCA:IBDO  Get Rating) by 27.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 673,971 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 144,033 shares during the period. InterOcean Capital Group LLC owned approximately 0.76% of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF worth $16,869,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Community Bank N.A. purchased a new position in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 3rd quarter worth $35,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky purchased a new position in iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $50,000. Parallel Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF in the 4th quarter worth $50,000. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF by 99.3% in the 4th quarter. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,493 shares of the companys stock worth $87,000 after purchasing an additional 1,740 shares during the period. Finally, Horan Securities Inc. purchased a new position in shares of iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF during the 4th quarter worth about $132,000.

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iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF Price Performance

IBDO traded up $0.01 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $25.19. 366,595 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 497,160. iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF has a 52-week low of $24.87 and a 52-week high of $25.26. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $25.15 and a 200 day moving average price of $25.07.

About iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF

The iShares iBonds Dec 2023 Term Corporate ETF (IBDO) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a Bloomberg global index of USD denominated, investment-grade corporate bonds maturing between Dec 31, 2022 and Jan 1, 2024. IBDO was launched on Mar 12, 2015 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Pan American Silver (TSE: PAAS) has recently received a number of price target changes and ratings updates:

5/2/2023  Pan American Silver had its price target lowered by analysts at National Bankshares, Inc. from C$34.50 to C$32.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

5/2/2023  Pan American Silver had its price target lowered by analysts at National Bank Financial from C$34.50 to C$32.00.

4/18/2023  Pan American Silver had its price target raised by analysts at National Bank Financial from C$32.00 to C$34.50.

4/18/2023  Pan American Silver had its price target raised by analysts at National Bankshares, Inc. from C$32.00 to C$34.50.

Pan American Silver Trading Down 1.0 %

Pan American Silver stock traded down C$0.25 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting C$24.02. 195,164 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 969,869. The companys 50 day simple moving average is C$23.71 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$22.86. Pan American Silver Corp. has a fifty-two week low of C$18.14 and a fifty-two week high of C$30.67. The firm has a market capitalization of C$5.06 billion, a P/E ratio of -10.87, a PEG ratio of 24.57 and a beta of 1.09. The company has a quick ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 2.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 11.25.

Pan American Silver Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 17th. Investors of record on Friday, March 17th were paid a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.67%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 3rd. Pan American Silvers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -24.43%.

Pan American Silver Corp., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, mine development, extraction, processing, refining, and reclamation of silver, gold, zinc, lead, and copper mines in Canada, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Bolivia. It holds interests in the La Colorada, Dolores, Huaron, Morococha, Shahuindo, La Arena, Timmins West, Bell Creek, Manantial Espejo, San Vicente, Joaquin, Cap-Oeste Sur Este, and Navidad mines.

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Madison Asset Management LLC lessened its position in Iron Mountain Incorporated (NYSE:IRM  Get Rating) by 2.0% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 34,871 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 728 shares during the quarter. Madison Asset Management LLCs holdings in Iron Mountain were worth $1,738,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Donoghue Forlines LLC grew its stake in Iron Mountain by 96.1% in the 4th quarter. Donoghue Forlines LLC now owns 55,632 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,773,000 after buying an additional 27,256 shares during the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. lifted its holdings in Iron Mountain by 2.7% during the 4th quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 121,713 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $6,067,000 after purchasing an additional 3,255 shares during the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System increased its position in Iron Mountain by 2.7% in the 4th quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 685,684 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $34,181,000 after acquiring an additional 18,048 shares in the last quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB grew its position in shares of Iron Mountain by 7.8% during the 4th quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 19,767 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $986,000 after buying an additional 1,435 shares during the period. Finally, Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Iron Mountain by 12.3% during the 4th quarter. Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,070 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $153,000 after buying an additional 337 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.12% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Iron Mountain

In related news, EVP Deborah Marson sold 1,125 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $51.77, for a total transaction of $58,241.25. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 59,419 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,076,121.63. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, EVP Deborah Marson sold 1,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $51.77, for a total transaction of $58,241.25. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 59,419 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,076,121.63. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO William L. Meaney sold 17,766 shares of Iron Mountain stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $52.43, for a total transaction of $931,471.38. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 295,650 shares in the company, valued at $15,500,929.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 94,552 shares of company stock valued at $4,993,621 over the last three months. 2.20% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Iron Mountain Price Performance

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $58.00 target price on shares of Iron Mountain in a report on Monday, March 6th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Iron Mountain from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Friday. Finally, Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Iron Mountain from $56.00 to $64.00 in a report on Friday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $62.00.

Shares of IRM stock opened at $56.50 on Monday. Iron Mountain Incorporated has a twelve month low of $43.33 and a twelve month high of $57.21. The stock has a market capitalization of $16.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.48, a P/E/G ratio of 3.74 and a beta of 0.91. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $52.90 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $52.37. The company has a current ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 19.91.

Iron Mountain (NYSE:IRM  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 23rd. The financial services provider reported $0.43 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.89 by ($0.46). The company had revenue of $1.28 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.32 billion. Iron Mountain had a net margin of 11.20% and a return on equity of 88.48%. Iron Mountains revenue for the quarter was up 10.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.74 EPS. On average, analysts predict that Iron Mountain Incorporated will post 3.77 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Iron Mountain Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, July 6th. Investors of record on Thursday, June 15th will be given a $0.6185 dividend. This represents a $2.47 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.38%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. Iron Mountains dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 124.75%.

Iron Mountain Profile

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Iron Mountain, Inc engages in the provision of storage and information management solutions. It operates through the following business segments: North American Records & Information Management Business, North American Data Management Business, Western European Business, Other International Business, Global Data Center Business and Corporate & Other Business.

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iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:IDEV  Get Rating)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $62.56 and last traded at $62.49, with a volume of 13316 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $62.40.

iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF Stock Up 0.1 %

The firms 50-day moving average is $60.18 and its 200-day moving average is $58.15. The company has a market capitalization of $10.95 billion, a PE ratio of 12.40 and a beta of 0.88.

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Institutional Trading of iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in IDEV. Assetmark Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF by 2.8% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,422,846 shares of the companys stock worth $86,040,000 after purchasing an additional 38,742 shares during the period. Prime Capital Investment Advisors LLC bought a new position in iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF in the first quarter worth about $210,000. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF by 219.5% in the first quarter. Mascoma Wealth Management LLC now owns 10,351 shares of the companys stock worth $643,000 after buying an additional 7,111 shares in the last quarter. AdvisorNet Financial Inc raised its stake in iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF by 17.9% in the first quarter. AdvisorNet Financial Inc now owns 10,461 shares of the companys stock worth $633,000 after buying an additional 1,589 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Parallel Advisors LLC raised its stake in iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF by 131.8% in the first quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 445 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 253 shares in the last quarter.

iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF Company Profile

The iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF (IDEV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI World ex USA IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of large-, mid, and small-cap stocks from developed countries, excluding the US. IDEV was launched on Mar 21, 2017 and is managed by BlackRock.

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iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $141.05 and last traded at $140.49, with a volume of 443235 shares. The stock had previously closed at $140.53.

iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $9.84 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.35 and a beta of 0.91. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $139.74 and a 200 day moving average price of $143.55.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MTUM. TimeScale Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF in the 1st quarter worth about $26,000. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 900.0% in the 1st quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 190 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 171 shares during the last quarter. WFA of San Diego LLC purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF in the 4th quarter worth about $27,000. GeoWealth Management LLC purchased a new position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $32,000. Finally, Colonial Trust Advisors purchased a new position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at about $45,000.

iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Momentum SR Variant index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap US equities, selected and weighted based on price appreciation over 6- and 12-month periods and low volatility over the past 3 years.

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Kuehne + Nagel International AG (OTCMKTS:KHNGY  Get Rating)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $61.54 and last traded at $61.54, with a volume of 2710 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $60.90.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on KHNGY. Sanford C. Bernstein upgraded Kuehne + Nagel International from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, February 8th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised shares of Kuehne + Nagel International from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. UBS Group lowered shares of Kuehne + Nagel International from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, February 15th. BNP Paribas downgraded Kuehne + Nagel International from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, January 19th. Finally, HSBC cut Kuehne + Nagel International from a hold rating to a reduce rating in a research note on Monday, February 27th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $280.00.

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Kuehne + Nagel International Trading Up 1.0 %

The stock has a market cap of $37.16 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.08 and a beta of 0.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05, a current ratio of 1.22 and a quick ratio of 1.22. The firms 50 day moving average price is $57.09 and its 200-day moving average price is $50.94.

Kuehne + Nagel International Increases Dividend

About Kuehne + Nagel International

The business also recently announced a dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, May 30th. Investors of record on Friday, May 12th will be issued a $1.9891 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 11th. This represents a yield of 3.29%. This is a boost from Kuehne + Nagel Internationals previous dividend of $1.31. Kuehne + Nagel Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 31.19%.

(Get Rating)

Kuhne + Nagel International AG engages in the provision of logistic services. It operates through the following segments: Sea Logistics, Air Logistics, Road Logistics, and Contract Logistics. The company was founded by August Kuehne and Friedrich Nagel in 1890 and is headquartered in Schindellegi, Switzerland.

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M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:MDC  Get Rating) CEO David D. Mandarich sold 157,044 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.45, for a total transaction of $6,509,473.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 5,097,022 shares in the company, valued at approximately $211,271,561.90. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link.

M.D.C. Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MDC opened at $41.42 on Monday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $38.12 and its 200-day moving average price is $35.28. M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. has a twelve month low of $27.04 and a twelve month high of $42.67. The company has a quick ratio of 2.84, a current ratio of 9.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.03 billion, a PE ratio of 6.15 and a beta of 1.37.

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M.D.C. (NYSE:MDC  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 2nd. The construction company reported $1.08 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.44 by $0.64. M.D.C. had a net margin of 8.99% and a return on equity of 16.34%. The firm had revenue of $1.02 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $887.13 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $2.02 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 17.8% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts expect that M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. will post 2.88 EPS for the current year.

M.D.C. Announces Dividend

Institutional Investors Weigh In On M.D.C.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 24th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 10th will be paid a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.83%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 9th. M.D.C.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.72%.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. CWM LLC increased its holdings in M.D.C. by 70.3% in the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 901 shares of the construction companys stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 372 shares in the last quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its holdings in M.D.C. by 665.3% during the 4th quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 949 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 825 shares in the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in M.D.C. by 86.2% during the 1st quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,311 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $41,000 after buying an additional 607 shares in the last quarter. Versant Capital Management Inc grew its holdings in M.D.C. by 239.9% during the 1st quarter. Versant Capital Management Inc now owns 1,074 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $42,000 after buying an additional 758 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wipfli Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in M.D.C. during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $61,000. 82.21% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have issued reports on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of M.D.C. from $30.50 to $27.50 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, March 6th. Wedbush restated a neutral rating on shares of M.D.C. in a research note on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of M.D.C. in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and three have issued a hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $27.50.

About M.D.C.

(Get Rating)

M.DC Holdings, Inc engages in proving homebuilding and financial services. It operates through the following business segments: West, Mountain, and East. The West segment includes operations in Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. The Mountain segment refers to the operations in Colorado, Idaho, and Utah.

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StockNews.com cut shares of M/I Homes (NYSE:MHO  Get Rating) from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report report published on Thursday.

Separately, Wedbush upped their target price on M/I Homes from $63.00 to $73.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th.

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M/I Homes Trading Up 2.0 %

Shares of NYSE:MHO opened at $67.37 on Thursday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $61.74 and its 200 day moving average is $53.56. M/I Homes has a 1 year low of $34.33 and a 1 year high of $68.53. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.87 billion, a P/E ratio of 3.80 and a beta of 1.91. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 6.17 and a quick ratio of 1.28.

Insider Activity at M/I Homes

Institutional Trading of M/I Homes

In other M/I Homes news, CEO Robert H. Schottenstein sold 8,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.00, for a total transaction of $501,500.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 103,406 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,100,954. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website . In other M/I Homes news, CEO Robert H. Schottenstein sold 8,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.00, for a total transaction of $501,500.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 103,406 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,100,954. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website . Also, CFO Phillip G. Creek sold 4,019 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $62.00, for a total value of $249,178.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 23,522 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,458,364. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold 76,799 shares of company stock valued at $4,862,011 in the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 3.60% of the companys stock.

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Wipfli Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of M/I Homes in the third quarter worth about $35,000. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new position in M/I Homes in the 1st quarter worth about $43,000. Quadrant Capital Group LLC raised its holdings in M/I Homes by 148.6% in the 3rd quarter. Quadrant Capital Group LLC now owns 1,350 shares of the construction companys stock worth $49,000 after purchasing an additional 807 shares during the period. Captrust Financial Advisors raised its holdings in M/I Homes by 28.6% in the 1st quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 1,947 shares of the construction companys stock worth $86,000 after purchasing an additional 433 shares during the period. Finally, Manchester Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in M/I Homes in the 3rd quarter worth about $87,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.42% of the companys stock.

M/I Homes Company Profile

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M/I Homes, Inc engages in the construction and development of residential properties. It operates through the Homebuilding and Financial Services segments. The Homebuilding segment includes Northern and Southern Homebuilding which designs, markets, constructs, and sells single-family homes and attached townhomes to first-time, millennial, move-up, empty-nester, and luxury buyers.

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Premier Fund Managers Ltd decreased its holdings in PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM  Get Rating) by 96.7% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 32,554 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 962,446 shares during the quarter. Premier Fund Managers Ltds holdings in PulteGroup were worth $4,427,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in PHM. Balyasny Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in PulteGroup in the third quarter valued at approximately $78,542,000. First Trust Advisors LP lifted its stake in shares of PulteGroup by 29.4% during the 1st quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 4,850,407 shares of the construction companys stock worth $203,232,000 after buying an additional 1,101,565 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. increased its position in PulteGroup by 36.3% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 3,651,100 shares of the construction companys stock worth $152,982,000 after acquiring an additional 972,310 shares during the period. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec increased its position in PulteGroup by 315.1% during the third quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 773,614 shares of the construction companys stock worth $29,011,000 after acquiring an additional 587,257 shares during the period. Finally, Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky bought a new position in PulteGroup in the 3rd quarter valued at about $17,541,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.07% of the companys stock.

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PulteGroup Stock Performance

PHM stock opened at $67.38 on Monday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $58.87 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $51.33. PulteGroup, Inc. has a twelve month low of $35.03 and a twelve month high of $67.40. The firm has a market cap of $15.04 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.77, a PEG ratio of 0.48 and a beta of 1.33.

PulteGroup Announces Dividend

PulteGroup ( NYSE:PHM Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The construction company reported $2.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.78 by $0.57. PulteGroup had a return on equity of 31.03% and a net margin of 16.22%. The business had revenue of $3.58 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.27 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.83 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 12.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that PulteGroup, Inc. will post 8.78 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 5th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, June 20th will be issued a $0.16 dividend. This represents a $0.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.95%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, June 16th. PulteGroups dividend payout ratio is presently 5.51%.

PulteGroup declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock repurchase plan on Tuesday, April 25th that authorizes the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the construction company to purchase up to 6.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are typically an indication that the companys management believes its shares are undervalued.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

PHM has been the topic of several recent research reports. Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $52.00 to $61.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $75.00 to $86.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of PulteGroup in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on shares of PulteGroup from $54.00 to $68.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, Citigroup increased their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $68.00 to $75.00 in a report on Thursday, April 27th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $66.86.

Insider Transactions at PulteGroup

In other news, CFO Robert Oshaughnessy sold 115,102 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.90, for a total value of $7,700,323.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 177,564 shares in the company, valued at $11,879,031.60. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CFO Robert Oshaughnessy sold 115,102 shares of PulteGroup stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.90, for a total transaction of $7,700,323.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 177,564 shares in the company, valued at $11,879,031.60. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Director Brian P. Anderson sold 15,000 shares of PulteGroup stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $66.95, for a total value of $1,004,250.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 55,886 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,741,567.70. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 273,917 shares of company stock worth $17,650,743 over the last three months. 0.83% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

PulteGroup Company Profile

(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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PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $67.45 and last traded at $67.27, with a volume of 507424 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $67.02.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on PHM shares. Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of PulteGroup from $65.00 to $71.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price objective on shares of PulteGroup from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, January 12th. Barclays boosted their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $75.00 to $86.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 26th. KeyCorp boosted their price target on shares of PulteGroup from $51.00 to $66.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 3rd. Finally, Wolfe Research upgraded shares of PulteGroup from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $64.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, March 22nd. Four 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 presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $66.86.

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PulteGroup Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a current ratio of 0.70. The company has a market cap of $15.13 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.77, a PEG ratio of 0.48 and a beta of 1.33. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $58.87 and a 200 day moving average price of $51.33.

PulteGroup Dividend Announcement

PulteGroup ( NYSE:PHM Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The construction company reported $2.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.78 by $0.57. PulteGroup had a return on equity of 31.03% and a net margin of 16.22%. The business had revenue of $3.58 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.27 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.83 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 12.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that PulteGroup, Inc. will post 8.78 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, July 5th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, June 20th will be issued a $0.16 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, June 16th. This represents a $0.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.94%. PulteGroups dividend payout ratio is currently 5.51%.

PulteGroup declared that its board has approved a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, April 25th that allows the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the construction company to reacquire up to 6.9% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are generally a sign that the companys board of directors believes its stock is undervalued.

Insider Transactions at PulteGroup

In related news, EVP Todd N. Sheldon sold 15,998 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $53.83, for a total value of $861,172.34. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 82,339 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,432,308.37. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other news, Director Brian P. Anderson sold 15,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, April 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.95, for a total value of $1,004,250.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 55,886 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,741,567.70. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Todd N. Sheldon sold 15,998 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $53.83, for a total value of $861,172.34. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 82,339 shares in the company, valued at $4,432,308.37. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 273,917 shares of company stock valued at $17,650,743. Corporate insiders own 0.83% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of PulteGroup

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank lifted its stake in shares of PulteGroup by 12.7% during the first quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 162,330 shares of the construction companys stock worth $9,461,000 after buying an additional 18,254 shares during the period. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its stake in shares of PulteGroup by 13.1% during the first quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 178,154 shares of the construction companys stock worth $10,383,000 after buying an additional 20,614 shares during the period. Perpetual Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of PulteGroup during the first quarter worth $1,567,000. Assetmark Inc. lifted its stake in shares of PulteGroup by 155.9% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 11,473 shares of the construction companys stock worth $669,000 after buying an additional 6,990 shares during the period. Finally, Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. lifted its stake in shares of PulteGroup by 18.3% during the first quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 4,081 shares of the construction companys stock worth $238,000 after buying an additional 632 shares during the period. 88.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About PulteGroup

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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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Roble Belko & Company Inc grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:EEM  Get Rating) by 46.1% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 20,519 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 6,475 shares during the quarter. Roble Belko & Company Incs holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF were worth $778,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of EEM. Accurate Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $27,000. WFA of San Diego LLC purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the 4th quarter worth $29,000. City State Bank grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 686.1% during the 4th quarter. City State Bank now owns 1,077 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 940 shares during the period. Phillips Financial Management LLC purchased a new position in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at about $39,000. Finally, Regimen Wealth LLC purchased a new position in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $46,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.29% of the companys stock.

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iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Stock Performance

Shares of EEM traded up $0.05 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $39.44. The company had a trading volume of 13,494,250 shares, compared to its average volume of 33,538,047. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $38.88 and its 200-day simple moving average is $38.78. iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has a 1 year low of $33.49 and a 1 year high of $43.23.

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF 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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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL  Get Rating) issued an update on its second quarter 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $1.50-$1.60 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $0.94. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Royal Caribbean Cruises also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $4.40-$4.80 EPS.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Stock Up 5.2 %

RCL traded up $3.73 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $75.61. 5,900,097 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 3,300,698. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $65.14 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $61.30. The company has a market cap of $19.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -18.58 and a beta of 2.43. Royal Caribbean Cruises has a fifty-two week low of $31.09 and a fifty-two week high of $76.30. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.41, a current ratio of 0.26 and a quick ratio of 0.35.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported ($0.23) earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.71) by $0.48. The company had revenue of $2.89 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.82 billion. Royal Caribbean Cruises had a negative net margin of 9.72% and a negative return on equity of 25.86%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 172.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business earned ($4.57) EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Royal Caribbean Cruises will post 4.8 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several brokerages recently weighed in on RCL. Susquehanna lifted their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $80.00 to $85.00 in a research report on Friday. Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $88.00 to $100.00 in a research report on Friday. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $50.00 to $60.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $65.00 to $71.00 in a research note on Friday. Finally, William Blair reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in a research note on Thursday. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $82.77.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quantinno Capital Management LP lifted its holdings in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 1.5% in the 4th quarter. Quantinno Capital Management LP now owns 8,977 shares of the companys stock worth $444,000 after purchasing an additional 136 shares in the last quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems Insurance Trust Fund increased its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems Insurance Trust Fund now owns 7,861 shares of the companys stock worth $298,000 after acquiring an additional 196 shares during the last quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P increased its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 4.0% in the 1st quarter. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P now owns 5,077 shares of the companys stock worth $425,000 after acquiring an additional 196 shares during the last quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 17.4% in the 1st quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 1,350 shares of the companys stock worth $116,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Global Wealth Management Investment Advisory Inc. boosted its stake in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 16.2% in the 1st quarter. Global Wealth Management Investment Advisory Inc. now owns 1,495 shares of the companys stock worth $125,000 after purchasing an additional 208 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.27% of the companys stock.

About Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Royal Caribbean Group is a cruise company, which engages in the ownership and operation of the following global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. The firm also holds interest in TUI Cruises GmbH, which operates the German brands TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

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MFS High Yield Municipal Trust (NYSE:CMU  Get Rating) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 6,893 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, May 5th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $3.18 per share, with a total value of $21,919.74. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 2,872,336 shares in the company, valued at $9,134,028.48. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Major shareholders that own 10% or more of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

MFS High Yield Municipal Trust Trading Up 0.3 %

CMU traded up $0.01 during trading on Monday, reaching $3.19. 42,224 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 64,978. MFS High Yield Municipal Trust has a 12-month low of $2.88 and a 12-month high of $3.75. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $3.17 and a 200 day simple moving average of $3.17.

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MFS High Yield Municipal Trust Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, May 17th will be given a $0.011 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 16th. This represents a $0.13 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.14%.

Institutional Trading of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust

About MFS High Yield Municipal Trust

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Doyle Wealth Management bought a new stake in shares of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust during the first quarter worth $66,000. UBS Group AG lifted its position in shares of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust by 5.5% during the first quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 459,430 shares of the companys stock worth $1,778,000 after purchasing an additional 24,080 shares during the last quarter. Rivernorth Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust by 87.7% during the first quarter. Rivernorth Capital Management LLC now owns 1,137,238 shares of the companys stock worth $4,401,000 after purchasing an additional 531,223 shares during the last quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust during the first quarter worth $42,000. Finally, Robinson Capital Management LLC lifted its position in shares of MFS High Yield Municipal Trust by 2.4% during the first quarter. Robinson Capital Management LLC now owns 715,718 shares of the companys stock worth $2,770,000 after purchasing an additional 17,006 shares during the last quarter. 30.93% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

(Get Rating)

MFS High Yield Municipal Trust is a closed-end investment fund. It primarily invests in tax-exempt bonds and tax-exempt notes. The company was founded on January 22, 1987 and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

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Madison Asset Management LLC reduced its holdings in SPDR Gold Shares (NYSEARCA:GLD  Get Rating) by 10.6% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 7,028 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 837 shares during the quarter. Madison Asset Management LLCs holdings in SPDR Gold Shares were worth $1,192,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of GLD. Sei Investments Co. acquired a new position in shares of SPDR Gold Shares in the 1st quarter valued at $24,420,000. Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in shares of SPDR Gold Shares by 69.4% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 532 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $96,000 after acquiring an additional 218 shares during the last quarter. Merit Financial Group LLC lifted its holdings in shares of SPDR Gold Shares by 18.6% in the 1st quarter. Merit Financial Group LLC now owns 2,773 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $501,000 after acquiring an additional 435 shares during the last quarter. First Western Trust Bank acquired a new position in SPDR Gold Shares during the 1st quarter worth about $256,000. Finally, Prudential Financial Inc. lifted its stake in SPDR Gold Shares by 32.5% during the 1st quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 36,898 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $6,666,000 after acquiring an additional 9,049 shares in the last quarter. 37.94% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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SPDR Gold Shares Trading Up 0.3 %

SPDR Gold Shares stock opened at $188.09 on Monday. SPDR Gold Shares has a 52-week low of $150.57 and a 52-week high of $191.36. The companys 50 day moving average is $181.84 and its two-hundred day moving average is $172.79.

SPDR Gold Shares Company Profile

SPDR Gold Trust (the Trust) is an investment trust. The investment objective of the Trust is for the Shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the Trusts expenses. The Trusts business activity is the investment of gold. The Trust creates and redeems Shares from time to time, but in one or more Baskets (a Basket equals a block of 100,000 Shares).

Further Reading

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Spirit Realty Capital (NYSE:SRC  Get Rating) had its target price reduced by Stifel Nicolaus from $48.00 to $45.50 in a report released on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

SRC has been the subject of several other reports. StockNews.com began coverage on Spirit Realty Capital in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Raymond James lowered Spirit Realty Capital from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, January 9th. Oppenheimer reissued a market perform rating and set a $38.00 price target on shares of Spirit Realty Capital in a research report on Tuesday, March 7th. Finally, JMP Securities reduced their price target on Spirit Realty Capital from $49.00 to $45.00 and set a market outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 21st. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Spirit Realty Capital has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $43.15.

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Spirit Realty Capital Trading Up 1.1 %

SRC stock opened at $39.16 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $5.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.18, a PEG ratio of 5.97 and a beta of 1.27. Spirit Realty Capital has a twelve month low of $34.31 and a twelve month high of $44.93. The company has a quick ratio of 0.15, a current ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82. The business has a fifty day moving average of $39.01 and a 200-day moving average of $40.30.

Spirit Realty Capital Dividend Announcement

Spirit Realty Capital ( NYSE:SRC Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 28th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.48 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.86 by ($0.38). The company had revenue of $183.39 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $184.95 million. Spirit Realty Capital had a net margin of 44.28% and a return on equity of 7.42%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Spirit Realty Capital will post 3.44 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, July 14th. Investors of record on Friday, June 30th will be issued a dividend of $0.663 per share. This represents a $2.65 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.77%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, June 29th. Spirit Realty Capitals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 116.23%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Spirit Realty Capital

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of SRC. Raymond James & Associates boosted its holdings in shares of Spirit Realty Capital by 12.4% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 8,081 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $372,000 after acquiring an additional 893 shares in the last quarter. US Bancorp DE lifted its holdings in Spirit Realty Capital by 22.8% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 11,549 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $530,000 after buying an additional 2,143 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. lifted its holdings in Spirit Realty Capital by 6.8% during the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 19,492 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $897,000 after buying an additional 1,234 shares during the period. Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund acquired a new position in Spirit Realty Capital during the 1st quarter worth about $1,002,000. Finally, Rhumbline Advisers lifted its holdings in Spirit Realty Capital by 0.4% during the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 346,622 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $15,952,000 after buying an additional 1,256 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 93.01% of the companys stock.

Spirit Realty Capital Company Profile

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Spirit Realty Capital, Inc operates as a holding company, which engages in investments in real estate. Its in-house capabilities include acquisition, portfolio management, asset management, credit research, real estate research, legal, finance, accounting, and capital markets. The company was founded on August 14, 2003, and is headquartered in Dallas, TX.

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StockNews.com cut shares of Global Payments (NYSE:GPN  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note released on Friday.

A number of other equities research analysts have also commented on the company. The Goldman Sachs Group raised Global Payments from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $127.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Mizuho dropped their target price on Global Payments from $120.00 to $110.00 in a research report on Thursday. Raymond James dropped their target price on Global Payments from $160.00 to $156.00 in a research report on Tuesday, May 2nd. BMO Capital Markets dropped their target price on Global Payments from $220.00 to $208.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Finally, Robert W. Baird raised Global Payments from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and lifted their target price for the company from $130.00 to $156.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and seventeen 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 a consensus target price of $146.30.

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Global Payments Stock Performance

Global Payments stock opened at $104.78 on Friday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $105.12 and its 200 day simple moving average is $105.69. Global Payments has a 12-month low of $92.27 and a 12-month high of $136.88. The company has a current ratio of 0.92, a quick ratio of 0.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74.

Global Payments Announces Dividend

Global Payments ( NYSE:GPN Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Monday, May 1st. The business services provider reported $2.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.31 by $0.09. Global Payments had a positive return on equity of 10.67% and a negative net margin of 1.58%. The firm had revenue of $2.29 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.01 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.97 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 6.3% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts predict that Global Payments will post 9.68 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.25 per share. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.95%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, June 14th. Global Paymentss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently -212.76%.

Insider Activity

In other news, CAO David M. Sheffield sold 1,562 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $113.08, for a total transaction of $176,630.96. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 28,032 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,169,858.56. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Corporate insiders own 1.30% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Global Payments

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in GPN. Boston Partners raised its position in Global Payments by 1.9% in the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 4,943,273 shares of the business services providers stock worth $534,064,000 after purchasing an additional 89,927 shares during the period. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership raised its position in Global Payments by 4.0% in the 3rd quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 4,055,387 shares of the business services providers stock worth $438,185,000 after purchasing an additional 157,380 shares during the period. Nordea Investment Management AB raised its position in Global Payments by 24.3% in the 1st quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 3,850,885 shares of the business services providers stock worth $401,070,000 after purchasing an additional 752,651 shares during the period. Victory Capital Management Inc. raised its position in Global Payments by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 3,323,828 shares of the business services providers stock worth $349,800,000 after purchasing an additional 50,467 shares during the period. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised its position in Global Payments by 50.0% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 3,055,514 shares of the business services providers stock worth $303,474,000 after purchasing an additional 1,018,338 shares during the period. 87.58% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Global Payments

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Global Payments, Inc engages in the provision of payment technology and software solutions. It operates through the following segments: Merchant Solutions, Issuer Solutions and Business & Consumer Solutions. The Merchant Solutions segment provides payments technology and software solutions to customers globally.

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Canaccord Genuity Group reiterated their buy rating on shares of Taseko Mines (LON:TKO  Get Rating) in a research report released on Thursday, LSE.Co.UK reports. The brokerage currently has a GBX 225 ($2.81) price objective on the stock.

Taseko Mines Stock Down 2.1 %

Shares of LON:TKO opened at GBX 117.50 ($1.47) on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 164.58, a quick ratio of 1.38 and a current ratio of 2.14. Taseko Mines has a 52-week low of GBX 75 ($0.94) and a 52-week high of GBX 160 ($2.00). The company has a market capitalization of 338.89 million, a PE ratio of -2,350.00 and a beta of 2.01. The company has a fifty day moving average of GBX 128.12 and a 200-day moving average of GBX 124.51.

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About Taseko Mines

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Further Reading

Taseko Mines Limited, a mining company, acquires, develops, and operates mineral properties. The company explores for copper, molybdenum, gold, niobium, and silver deposits. It holds 75% interest in the Gibraltar mine located in British Columbia. It also holds 100% interest in Yellowhead copper project, the Aley niobium project, and the New Prosperity gold and copper project located in British Columbia; and the Florence copper project located in Arizona.

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TI Trust Inc. purchased a new stake in Campbell Soup (NYSE:CPB  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund purchased 4,160 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $236,000.

Other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. State Street Corp boosted its position in shares of Campbell Soup by 16.8% in the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 12,182,043 shares of the companys stock worth $542,954,000 after acquiring an additional 1,749,650 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Campbell Soup by 6.3% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 23,259,524 shares of the companys stock worth $1,036,678,000 after buying an additional 1,387,605 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its position in Campbell Soup by 74.6% during the second quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,450,459 shares of the companys stock valued at $69,694,000 after acquiring an additional 619,831 shares during the period. Two Sigma Advisers LP raised its holdings in shares of Campbell Soup by 703.2% in the 3rd quarter. Two Sigma Advisers LP now owns 688,300 shares of the companys stock worth $32,433,000 after purchasing an additional 602,600 shares during the period. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP grew its stake in Campbell Soup by 158.4% during the third quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 876,056 shares of the companys stock worth $41,280,000 after buying an additional 537,042 shares during the period. 50.39% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Campbell Soup Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:CPB traded down $0.19 during trading on Monday, reaching $54.55. The stock had a trading volume of 1,495,801 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,258,603. The company has a quick ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.11. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $54.16 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $53.56. The firm has a market capitalization of $16.34 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.27, a P/E/G ratio of 4.61 and a beta of 0.34. Campbell Soup has a 52 week low of $44.37 and a 52 week high of $57.78.

Campbell Soup Dividend Announcement

Campbell Soup ( NYSE:CPB Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, March 8th. The company reported $0.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.74 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $2.49 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.43 billion. Campbell Soup had a return on equity of 26.97% and a net margin of 8.86%. The businesss revenue was up 12.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.69 earnings per share. As a group, analysts anticipate that Campbell Soup will post 3.01 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 1st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 6th were given a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.71%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, April 5th. Campbell Soups payout ratio is presently 54.82%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have weighed in on the company. Bank of America increased their target price on Campbell Soup from $50.00 to $51.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 9th. Credit Suisse Group raised their price objective on Campbell Soup from $50.00 to $51.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, March 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on shares of Campbell Soup from $53.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, March 9th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on shares of Campbell Soup from $54.00 to $53.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, March 20th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on Campbell Soup in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They set a hold rating and a $55.00 target price on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Campbell Soup has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $51.92.

Campbell Soup Profile

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Campbell Soup Co engages in the business of manufacturing and marketing food and beverage products. It operates under the Meals and Beverages, and Snacks segments. The Meals and Beverages segment includes soup, meals, and beverage products in retail and foodservice. The Snacks segment offers cookies, crackers, bakery, and frozen products.

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Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLC boosted its holdings in The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Get Rating) by 49.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 7,147 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 2,354 shares during the quarter. Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLCs holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $595,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Toronto Dominion Bank raised its stake in Charles Schwab by 32,224.4% in the 4th quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 225,994,826 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $18,816,289,000 after acquiring an additional 225,295,680 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Charles Schwab by 2.1% in 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 acquiring an additional 2,589,952 shares during the period. State Street Corp increased its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 1.1% during the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 65,566,364 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,712,255,000 after buying an additional 717,683 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. increased its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 7.4% during the third quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 20,767,564 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,492,565,000 after buying an additional 1,431,879 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC increased its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 0.4% during the third quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 17,076,247 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,227,270,000 after buying an additional 68,423 shares during the period. 73.49% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Charles Schwab Stock Performance

SCHW traded down $1.23 during trading on Monday, reaching $48.01. 12,617,733 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 22,386,449. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 1 year low of $45.00 and a 1 year high of $86.63. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77, a current ratio of 0.38 and a quick ratio of 0.38. The stock has a market capitalization of $86.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.45, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.50 and a beta of 0.88. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $57.02 and its 200-day simple moving average is $71.70.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

Charles Schwab ( NYSE:SCHW Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, April 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.93 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.90 by $0.03. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 34.82% and a return on equity of 27.36%. The company had revenue of $5.12 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.13 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.77 EPS. Charles Schwabs revenue for the quarter was up 9.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts predict that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.38 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, May 26th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.25 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 11th. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.08%. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is 27.32%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have commented on the stock. Credit Suisse Group upgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and reduced their price target for the company from $81.50 to $67.50 in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Charles Schwab in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Barclays cut their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $61.00 to $56.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Friday, April 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price target on Charles Schwab from $86.00 to $85.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on Charles Schwab from $75.00 to $72.00 in a research report on Tuesday, April 18th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Charles Schwab currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $69.21.

Insider Transactions at Charles Schwab

In other news, President Richard A. Wurster acquired 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average price of $54.39 per share, for a total transaction of $108,780.00. Following the acquisition, the president now owns 101,391 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,514,656.49. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In related news, Director Marianne Catherine Brown acquired 5,000 shares of Charles Schwab stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 28th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $53.47 per share, for a total transaction of $267,350.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 9,984 shares in the company, valued at $533,844.48. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, President Richard A. Wurster acquired 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $54.39 per share, with a total value of $108,780.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the president now owns 101,391 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,514,656.49. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have bought 81,000 shares of company stock valued at $4,706,960 and have sold 217,308 shares valued at $17,467,482. Corporate insiders own 6.60% of the companys stock.

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.

Further Reading

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Utah Retirement Systems decreased its stake in Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) by 1.0% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 112,517 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 1,100 shares during the period. Utah Retirement Systems holdings in Accenture were worth $30,024,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Cadence Bank raised its holdings in shares of Accenture by 0.7% during the first quarter. Cadence Bank now owns 4,999 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $1,686,000 after purchasing an additional 36 shares during the period. Bangor Savings Bank raised its holdings in shares of Accenture by 3.4% in the 4th quarter. Bangor Savings Bank now owns 1,099 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $294,000 after acquiring an additional 36 shares during the last quarter. Quantum Private Wealth LLC raised its holdings in shares of Accenture by 2.7% in the 3rd quarter. Quantum Private Wealth LLC now owns 1,385 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $356,000 after acquiring an additional 37 shares during the last quarter. Essex Financial Services Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Accenture by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter. Essex Financial Services Inc. now owns 2,691 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $693,000 after acquiring an additional 38 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Accenture by 1.3% in the 4th quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. now owns 2,949 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $787,000 after acquiring an additional 38 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 73.97% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Accenture news, insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.90, for a total value of $1,448,475.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 26,908 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,423,917.20. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of Accenture stock in a transaction on Monday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.90, for a total transaction of $1,448,475.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 26,908 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,423,917.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Jean-Marc Ollagnier sold 6,250 shares of Accenture stock in a transaction on Friday, April 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $280.06, for a total transaction of $1,750,375.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 174,084 shares of the companys stock, valued at $48,753,965.04. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 15,010 shares of company stock worth $4,180,030 in the last three months. 0.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Accenture Stock Down 0.4 %

ACN traded down $1.14 on Monday, hitting $264.51. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,099,085 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,347,550. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $271.20 and its 200-day simple moving average is $276.57. The firm has a market cap of $167.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 24.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 1.25. Accenture plc has a 12 month low of $242.80 and a 12 month high of $322.88.

Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, March 23rd. The information technology services provider reported $2.69 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.49 by $0.20. Accenture had a net margin of 11.00% and a return on equity of 30.73%. The company had revenue of $15.81 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.59 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $2.54 EPS. Accentures revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. Equities analysts predict that Accenture plc will post 11.57 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Accenture Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 13th will be paid a $1.12 dividend. This represents a $4.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.69%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, April 12th. Accentures dividend payout ratio is presently 41.25%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on ACN shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Accenture from $311.00 to $314.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on shares of Accenture from $340.00 to $325.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Accenture from $289.00 to $294.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Accenture from $335.00 to $340.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Finally, Edward Jones raised shares of Accenture from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Accenture has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $314.00.

About Accenture

(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.

Further Reading

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Utah Retirement Systems trimmed its position in shares of ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Rating) by 3.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 221,450 shares of the energy producers stock after selling 6,900 shares during the period. Utah Retirement Systems holdings in ConocoPhillips were worth $26,131,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Morgan Stanley lifted its holdings in ConocoPhillips by 26.6% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 16,647,723 shares of the energy producers stock worth $1,964,432,000 after buying an additional 3,497,750 shares in the last quarter. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. lifted its holdings in ConocoPhillips by 53.4% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. now owns 7,338,622 shares of the energy producers stock worth $751,035,000 after buying an additional 2,555,634 shares in the last quarter. Cowa LLC lifted its holdings in ConocoPhillips by 6,475.2% during the 1st quarter. Cowa LLC now owns 2,375,224 shares of the energy producers stock worth $2,383,000 after buying an additional 2,339,100 shares in the last quarter. Findlay Park Partners LLP acquired a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 4th quarter worth $207,728,000. Finally, T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. acquired a new position in ConocoPhillips during the 4th quarter worth $186,330,000. 81.76% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

COP has been the topic of several research reports. Truist Financial upped their price objective on ConocoPhillips from $151.00 to $167.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Capital One Financial cut shares of ConocoPhillips from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $102.00 price objective for the company. in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Wolfe Research cut ConocoPhillips from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Thursday, January 12th. Societe Generale upgraded ConocoPhillips from a sell rating to a hold rating and set a $105.00 price objective for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Scotiabank cut ConocoPhillips from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating and decreased their price objective for the company from $145.00 to $140.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 17th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fifteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $137.11.

Insiders Place Their Bets

ConocoPhillips Trading Up 0.9 %

In other news, Director R A. Walker acquired 4,800 shares of ConocoPhillips stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 22nd. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $103.00 per share, with a total value of $494,400.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 27,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,842,800. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . 0.08% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

COP stock traded up $0.86 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $101.23. The stock had a trading volume of 2,856,509 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,505,841. The firm has a market cap of $122.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 8.03, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 1.30. The company has a current ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32. ConocoPhillips has a 1-year low of $78.30 and a 1-year high of $138.49. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $102.69 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $113.41.

ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The energy producer reported $2.38 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.02 by $0.36. ConocoPhillips had a net margin of 20.21% and a return on equity of 32.75%. The firm had revenue of $15.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.06 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.27 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 19.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts predict that ConocoPhillips will post 10.06 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

ConocoPhillips Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, May 16th will be given a $0.51 dividend. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.02%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, May 15th. ConocoPhillipss payout ratio is 16.32%.

About ConocoPhillips

(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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Ventas (NYSE:VTR  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY23 earnings guidance on Monday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $2.90-3.04 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.98.

Ventas Trading Down 0.9 %

VTR traded down $0.41 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $47.44. The companys stock had a trading volume of 2,489,710 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,168,494. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $45.26 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $45.86. The company has a current ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20. Ventas has a 52-week low of $35.33 and a 52-week high of $58.24. The firm has a market cap of $18.98 billion, a P/E ratio of -395.42, a PEG ratio of 3.50 and a beta of 1.19.

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Ventas (NYSE:VTR  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 9th. The real estate investment trust reported ($0.11) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.72 by ($0.83). The firm had revenue of $1.05 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.04 billion. Ventas had a negative net margin of 1.15% and a negative return on equity of 0.45%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.73 earnings per share. On average, research analysts anticipate that Ventas will post 2.96 earnings per share for the current year.

Ventas Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 13th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 3rd were given a $0.45 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 31st. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.79%. Ventass payout ratio is currently -1,500.00%.

A number of brokerages have recently weighed in on VTR. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their price target on Ventas from $56.00 to $54.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Barclays lowered their price target on Ventas from $57.00 to $55.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 25th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Ventas in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a sell rating for the company. Raymond James boosted their price objective on Ventas from $46.00 to $55.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, January 9th. Finally, KeyCorp reduced their price objective on Ventas from $56.00 to $55.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $54.92.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Ventas

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. acquired a new position in shares of Ventas in the 1st quarter worth approximately $41,000. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Ventas in the 4th quarter worth approximately $50,000. First Manhattan Co. increased its holdings in Ventas by 885.9% during the 1st quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 1,400 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $86,000 after purchasing an additional 1,258 shares in the last quarter. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in Ventas during the 4th quarter valued at $82,000. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in Ventas by 41.9% during the 1st quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 2,223 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $137,000 after purchasing an additional 656 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.28% of the companys stock.

Ventas Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Ventas, Inc engages in the acquisition and ownership of seniors housing and healthcare properties. It operates through the following segments: Triple-Net Leased Properties, Senior Housing Operating Portfolio (SHOP), and Office Operations. The Triple-Net Leased Properties segment invests in and owns senior housing and healthcare properties.

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InterOcean Capital Group LLC lifted its stake in Walmart Inc. (NYSE:WMT  Get Rating) by 0.7% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 494,133 shares of the retailers stock after purchasing an additional 3,508 shares during the period. Walmart accounts for approximately 2.6% of InterOcean Capital Group LLCs holdings, making the stock its 7th largest holding. InterOcean Capital Group LLCs holdings in Walmart were worth $70,063,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in WMT. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in Walmart by 1.4% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 130,176,496 shares of the retailers stock worth $16,883,890,000 after buying an additional 1,832,388 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Walmart by 2.9% in the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 96,570,711 shares of the retailers stock valued at $12,525,224,000 after buying an additional 2,712,886 shares during the period. State Street Corp lifted its stake in Walmart by 1.2% during the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 60,659,193 shares of the retailers stock worth $7,867,497,000 after purchasing an additional 701,415 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its stake in Walmart by 0.3% during the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 11,685,848 shares of the retailers stock worth $1,515,655,000 after purchasing an additional 33,452 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Walmart by 2.9% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 10,904,858 shares of the retailers stock worth $1,623,951,000 after buying an additional 303,726 shares in the last quarter. 31.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Walmart Stock Performance

NYSE:WMT traded down $0.15 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $151.62. The company had a trading volume of 1,193,541 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,077,061. The company has a current ratio of 0.82, a quick ratio of 0.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. Walmart Inc. has a 52 week low of $117.27 and a 52 week high of $154.64. The firm has a market cap of $408.97 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.51, a PEG ratio of 4.55 and a beta of 0.48. The firms 50 day moving average price is $145.57 and its 200-day moving average price is $144.92.

Walmart Announces Dividend

Walmart ( NYSE:WMT Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, February 21st. The retailer reported $1.71 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.51 by $0.20. Walmart had a net margin of 1.91% and a return on equity of 20.45%. The business had revenue of $164.05 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $158.67 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.53 EPS. The firms revenue was up 7.3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts forecast that Walmart Inc. will post 6.06 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, December 8th will be paid a dividend of $0.57 per share. This represents a $2.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.50%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 7th. Walmarts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 53.27%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on WMT. Tigress Financial raised shares of Walmart from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the stock from $170.00 to $176.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 26th. Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on shares of Walmart from $161.00 to $160.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, February 22nd. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $164.00 price objective on shares of Walmart in a research note on Wednesday, February 22nd. KeyCorp increased their price objective on shares of Walmart from $170.00 to $175.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 25th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada set a $163.00 price objective on shares of Walmart in a research note on Wednesday, February 22nd. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-five have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Walmart currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $165.09.

Insider Activity at Walmart

In other Walmart news, EVP John R. Furner sold 4,375 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $151.00, for a total value of $660,625.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 286,617 shares in the company, valued at approximately $43,279,167. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Walmart news, EVP John R. Furner sold 4,375 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $151.00, for a total value of $660,625.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 286,617 shares in the company, valued at approximately $43,279,167. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, major shareholder Alice L. Walton sold 1,957,377 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, March 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $140.72, for a total transaction of $275,442,091.44. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 255,973,516 shares in the company, valued at approximately $36,020,593,171.52. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 21,044,002 shares of company stock worth $2,981,168,308. 47.06% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Walmart Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Walmart, Inc engages in retail and wholesale business. The company offers an assortment of merchandise and services at everyday low prices. It operates through the following business segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sams Club. The Walmart U.S. segment operates as a merchandiser of consumer products, operating under the Walmart, Wal-Mart, and Walmart Neighborhood Market brands, as well as walmart.com and other eCommerce brands.

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West Family Investments Inc. cut its stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Get Rating) by 3.4% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,002 shares of the companys stock after selling 143 shares during the quarter. West Family Investments Inc.s holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $405,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in PM. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC increased its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 0.9% in the 3rd quarter. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC now owns 15,762 shares of the companys stock worth $1,308,000 after acquiring an additional 133 shares in the last quarter. Advisor OS LLC purchased a new stake in Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter valued at about $200,000. Profund Advisors LLC grew its position 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 purchasing an additional 1,568 shares during the last quarter. K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc purchased a new stake in Philip Morris International during the 4th quarter valued at about $5,484,250,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its position in Philip Morris International by 7.2% during the 4th quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 7,390,470 shares of the companys stock valued at $748,655,000 after purchasing an additional 496,017 shares during the last quarter. 75.85% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Philip Morris International Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:PM traded down $0.11 during trading on Monday, hitting $95.45. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,009,342 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,382,427. The company has a 50-day moving average of $97.39 and a 200-day moving average of $98.41. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12 month low of $82.85 and a 12 month high of $109.81. The firm has a market cap of $148.16 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.09, a P/E/G ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 0.68.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 20th. The company reported $1.38 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.34 by $0.04. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 10.80% and a negative return on equity of 128.55%. The firm had revenue of $8.10 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.03 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.56 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 4.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.2 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, March 23rd were given a dividend of $1.27 per share. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, March 22nd. This represents a $5.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.32%. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is 90.88%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts recently commented on PM shares. Societe Generale started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. They set a sell rating and a $90.00 price objective on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. They set a buy rating and a $114.00 price objective on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised shares of Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and increased their price objective for the company from $109.00 to $116.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price objective for the company from $95.00 to $120.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 25th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $109.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 2nd. 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 company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $110.60.

Insider Activity

In other news, insider Werner Barth sold 8,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.35, for a total transaction of $786,800.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 87,321 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,588,020.35. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, insider Werner Barth sold 8,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.35, for a total transaction of $786,800.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 87,321 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,588,020.35. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Stacey Kennedy sold 8,756 shares of Philip Morris International stock in a transaction on Friday, February 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $101.31, for a total transaction of $887,070.36. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 47,731 shares in the company, valued at $4,835,627.61. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 117,064 shares of company stock worth $11,738,763 in the last three months. Company insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(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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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Get Rating).

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The Election Commission of India (ECI) will use facial recognition technology in a polling booth in Bengaluru, which could be the first time it is used in an assembly poll, amid concerns from activists about privacy. The system will be piloted at one polling station  Room no. 2, Government Ramnarayan Chellaram College on Palace Road, near the office of the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer  for the assembly elections on May 10. How does it work? EC officials told Moneycontrol that voters at this polling station would need to download the EC's Chunavana mobile application. After keying in their Elector's Photo Identity Card (EPIC) number, mobile number and generating an OTP, they will need to upload a selfie through the app. Once a voter reached the polling booth, he/she would undergo facial recognition scanning for verification. If the photo matched with EC's database, the voter would not need to provide any documents and will be cleared to cast his/her vote. EC officials said the system would reduce waiting times/long queues and prevent bogus voting and electoral malpractices. This system is similar to DigiYatra, which is a biometric boarding system facilitated for passengers at airports to reduce queues. We identified this booth in Shivaji Nagar for the pilot project since it has only around 300 voters compared to some 1,500 voters in other booths and also due to its proximity to the CEO's office. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are visiting all the households of the voters in this booth and explaining the new technology. It's not mandatory, and those who do not want to opt for this facility can follow the traditional way. There will be a separate queue for voters availing of this," Karnataka Special Officer (Elections) AV Surya Sen told Moneycontrol. He added that the system has several advantages. "One, it will cut down the queue/waiting time for voting. Two, less manpower is needed. For instance, instead of four polling officers at a booth, only three can be deployed because theres no need for further checks/verification due to this face recognition technology." Officials said this solution came from a 30-hour offline hackathon to tackle voting apathy, where 'Team Wasuli,' students of the department of Computing Technologies from SRM University in Chennai emerged as the grand winner. The hackathon, named 'Electhon 2023', was organised by the EC along with International Institute of Information Technology, Bengaluru, and Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Team Wasuli comprises students GK Dvijesh Ragav, Sarvottam Kumar Mishra, Mayank Rai and Pranav Kumar. They received a cash prize of 1 lakh for their winning prototype. He added that the system has several advantages. "One, it will cut down the queue/waiting time for voting. Two, less manpower is needed. For instance, instead of four polling officers at a booth, only three can be deployed because theres no need for further checks/verification due to this face recognition technology." In 2020, the Telangana State Election Commission also used facial recognition technology in 10 polling stations (local body polls) at Kompally municipality of Medchal Malkajgiri district. In that instance, polling staff verified voters ID proof using a smartphone and cleared them to cast votes. Later, voters' photos were uploaded to a server using a facial recognition app. Once the photo was matched, a green mark appeared on the smartphone indicating that the voter was genuine. However, many activists have raised concerns in the past saying that this data would be used to profile voters, invade the privacy of citizens, and enable surveillance. As it happens, the Election Commission clarified in a tweet hours after the Moneycontrol's report that is taken for 'deliberation' and the same is not yet finalized for piloting. The solution which is one of the few selected from the recently concluded Hackthon - Electhon 2023 is taken for deliberation and the same is not yet finalized for piloting. The same is mentioned to the reporter as well.  Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka (@ceo_karnataka) May 8, 2023 Check parking location, queue at polling booths via app EC officials said voters will be able to check the availability of parking space near polling booths on the Chunavana mobile application. Voters can check the queue status at polling booths in real-time through the app. Voters who are senior citizens and differently-abled can also request a wheelchair facility at polling stations through the app. The EC has also facilitated pick-up and drop-off facilities (between the polling station and residence) for elderly and differently-abled voters. The app also provides details of polling booths, contesting candidates, the election schedule, previous election details, list of officers, details of the nearest police station, and healthcare facilities, among others. Shivaji Nagar assembly segment under scanner It may be recalled that a Congress leader and Shivaji Nagar MLA Rizwan Arshad alleged that 9,195 votes may have been removed after the publication of the electoral rolls. However, the EC clarified that no voter's name had been deleted from the electoral list of the constituency. In fact, electoral roll revisions in the Shivajinagar, Mahadevapura and Chickpet constituencies were delayed following alleged large-scale voter data theft by a private company. In connection with the voter data theft case, the ECI had instructed to suspend additional district election officer of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the additional district election officer cum-deputy commissioner of Bengaluru urban district. The EC also appointed special officers from outside the BBMP to oversee and ensure the validity of electoral rolls in Shivajinagar, Mahadevapura, and Some residents in Shivaji Nagar had also complained that unknown people claiming to be Booth Level Officers visited their houses and collected sensitive information on the pretext of updating electoral rolls. The Karnataka High Court had also directed the EC to complete identifying shifted/dead voters in the Shivajinagar and Shantinagar assembly segments. Also read: Will tech capital Bengaluru buck low voter turnout trend this election?
Five cheetahs  three females and two males  will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) before the onset of the monsoon in June, the Union Environment Ministry said on Monday. It also said the cheetahs will be allowed to move out of KNP and will not necessarily be "recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger". So far, four of the eight cheetahs brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP. "Five more cheetahs (three females and two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-roaming conditions in KNP before the onset of the monsoon rains in June," it said in a statement. The decision was taken after a team of experts reviewed the current status of the "Project Cheetah" on the directions of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). They expert team said all the cheetahs were in good physical condition, making kills at regular intervals and displaying natural behaviours. Cheetahs were chosen for release based on their behavioural characteristics and approachability by the monitoring teams. The rest of the cheetahs will remain in the acclimatisation camps for the duration of the monsoon season. "Certain internal gates will be left open to allow these cheetahs to utilise more space and for interactions between specific males and females to take place," the ministry said. The situation will be reviewed after the monsoon season and further releases into KNP or surrounding areas will be done in a planned manner as per the Cheetah Conservation Action Plan to establish meta population, it said. Of the four cheetahs that have already been released into free-ranging conditions, two (Gaurav and Shaurya) have stayed within the park and have not shown any interest in exploring the landscape beyond the borders of the park, according to the statement. A female cheetah named Aasha has made two exploratory excursions to the east of KNP beyond the buffer zone but has remained within the broader Kuno landscape and has not ventured into human-dominated areas. Another male (Pawan) explored areas well beyond the boundaries of the park on two occasions, venturing into farmland near the border with Uttar Pradesh during his second excursion. He was darted by the veterinary team and returned to an acclimatization camp in KNP. The ministry said cheetahs, like other large carnivores, are known to range widely during the initial few months after being reintroduced into unfamiliar open systems. "These movements are unpredictable and depend on many factors. After several months, the cheetahs should establish their own communication networks and settle down in relatively fixed home ranges. "It is important that individual cheetahs do not become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase as they will then not participate in breeding and will thus be genetically isolated," it said. Their degree of isolation will be assessed once they settle down and appropriate action will be taken to enhance their connectivity to the group. Several wildlife experts have said that Project Cheetah overestimated the carrying capacity of KNP, and linked it to the incidents of Pavan straying out of the national park. The expert team said it is impossible to determine the precise carrying capacity of cheetah in KNP until they have properly established their home ranges and that the home ranges of cheetahs can overlap substantially depending on the prey density and several other factors. "While many have made predictions about the anticipated carrying capacity of cheetahs in KNP based on other ecosystems in Namibia and East Africa, the actual number of animals that the reserve can accommodate can only be assessed after the animals are released and have established home ranges," it said. "Cheetah home-range sizes and population densities vary tremendously for different cheetah populations in Africa and for obvious reasons, we do not have useful spatial ecology data for cheetahs in India yet," the ministry said. Under the ambitious Cheetah reintroduction programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch of eight spotted felines  five females and three males  from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno in Madhya Pradesh on his 72nd birthday on September 17 last year. In a second such translocation, 12 cheetahs were flown in from South Africa and released into Kuno on February 18. One of the Namibian cheetahs, Sasha, died due to a kidney-related ailment in March. Another cheetah, Uday, from South Africa died on April 13. On the death of the two cheetahs, the ministry said chronic renal failure is a common problem in captive cheetahs and many other captive felid species, but is not infectious and cannot be transmitted from one animal to another. An initial examination revealed Uday had most likely died of terminal cardio-pulmonary failure. Failure of the heart and lungs is common in the terminal stages of many conditions and does not provide much information about the underlying cause of the problem, it said.
Birla Estates Private Limited, the real estate arm of the Aditya Birla Group housed under Century Textiles and Industries Limited has purchased a 28.6-acre land parcel in eastern Bengaluru with a potential revenue of Rs 3,000 crore, the company said in a regulatory filing. Located in the micro market of Sarjapura Road, the development will essentially comprise residential housing along with convenience retail options. The company said the transaction is its strategic foray into the south-east Bengaluru market to develop Grade-A residences for the large pool of IT professionals working in the IT corridor of Sarjapur, Outer Ring Road, Whitefield and Electronics City. "We believe that this region has immense potential to become the next IT hub, and our Grade-A residential complex will serve as a haven for modern professionals in the area. Our goal is to set a new standard for iconic living in Bengaluru through this project. Additionally, we are fully dedicated to creating a top-tier development that exceeds the expectations of our homebuyers, K T Jithendran, managing director and chief executive officer of Birla Estates said. Currently, the company, headquartered in Mumbai, has a commercial portfolio of two grade-A commercial buildings located in Worli, Mumbai with about 6 lakh square feet of leasable area. Previously, Birla Estates announced the acquisition of a premium land parcel for a luxury residential project in the Walkeshwar area of Malabar Hill in Mumbai with a revenue potential of over Rs 600 crore.

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UltraTech Cements export volumes saw a sequential recovery in the March-23 ended quarter, owing to normalisation of operations in Sri Lanka, top executives from the company informed analysts. Further, the company also said it aims to increase its stake in the UAE-based RAK White Cement asset and make it a subsidiary in the current financial year. Its almost normalised, and we have started getting back our volumes, Atul Daga, executive director and chief financial officer for UltraTech told analysts in an earning call post March-23 ended quarter results. At the peak of the problem time, we had almost Rs 250 crore outstanding from Lanka; everything, the last penny has been received, volumes have started picking up. The economies started picking up. So our exports are also going up, Daga added. For FY22-23, UltraTech reported full-year exports at 0.5 million tonnes, 43 percent lower than a year ago. For the March-23 ended quarter, the company exported 0.2 million tonnes, down 17 percent year on year, but up 50 percent sequentially. The majority of UltraTechs exports are to Sri Lanka, which fell to almost nil at the start of FY22-23 owing to the political instability in the island country. RAK White Cement Daga in the earnings call, also said the company is working on increasing its stake in UAE-based RAK White Cement. Hopefully, in this financial year, we'll be able to consolidate, make it our subsidiary, the executive added. UltraTechs white cement sales in India were at 1.6 million tonnes in FY22-23, up 11 percent. The company has started branding RAK White Cements output under the Birla White branding, to be imported into India. In April 2022, UltraTech increased its stake in RAK White Cement, through its subsidiary, to 29.79 percent, with an investment of $101 million.

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Any closure of upstream assets in the UK on reaching end-of-life will cost Tata Steel more than 100 million, top executives from the steel major told analysts last week. The company further said that the UK operations reported a cash burn of $150 million in the second half of FY22-23, higher than what they had guided earlier. Tata Steel has been in discussions with the UK government, seeking financial support for a green transition of its UK assets. So far, it said, the talks have remained inconclusive. In an interview with Moneycontrol, TV Narendran, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Tata Steel, said that in the worst-case scenario, if the UK government did not help finance a green transition, different UK (upstream) assets would be closed as they reached end-of-life. Also Read: Green steel standoff lingers, Tata Steel to decide on UK assets in 2 years, says Narendran The plan under discussion with the UK government is for a support of more than 1 billion, which includes transition from a blast furnace to an electric arc furnace. In case of closure, the cost is estimated to be in hundreds of millions of Pounds, analysts with Centrum wrote in a note on May 3. In the interview last week, Narendran had indicated that some of the assets would reach end-of-life in two years. Further, Tata Steel also informed that the UK business had incurred a cash burn of $150 million, analysts said. "Tata Steel, Netherlands, has 600 million in cash, while the UK business burnt $150 million in the last six months, analysts with Anand Rathi noted in a May 4 report on Tata Steel. ALSO READ: Tata Steel Q4 profit takes 84% dent but outshines estimates: Here's what brokerages say In the quarter ended September 2022, Koushik Chatterjee, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, Tata Steel, had said, The assets in the UK are older than in the Netherlands, and in fact, older than the rest of Tata Steels portfolio. It will become maintenance heavy in course of time. In FY23-24, Tata Steel plans to spend Rs 16,000 crore in capex, of which Rs 700-800 crore would be towards maintaining the UK assets, the company informed analysts.
[content][quote]Market Cap Growth[/quote][title]PEPE and FLOKI Meme Coins Gain Traction: Binance Listing Fuels Market Cap Growth[/title][body]Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, has recently announced the addition of PEPE to its platform, potentially shifting perceptions about the coin's credibility. > Floki Inu [FLOKI], another well-known meme coin, will also be listed alongside PEPE. However, it's important to note that both coins will be featured in Binance's Innovation Zone. > The Innovation Zone is a specialized trading area where users can trade newly introduced and potentially volatile tokens, which may carry higher risks than other tokens. > PEPE and FLOKI are set to be listed on Binance starting from May 5, 2023, at 16:00 [UTC]. > While trading has yet to begin, users can deposit funds in preparation. The trading pairs for PEPE are PEPE/USDT and PEPE/TUSD. Full report here. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Gold-Backed Digital Token[/quote][title]Zimbabwe's Central Bank Unveils Gold-Backed Digital Token to Tackle Inflation[/title][body]The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has called on individuals and financial institutions to participate in its upcoming gold-backed digital token launch, according to an announcement made on Thursday. > The minimum subscription amount for individuals is set at $10, while financial institutions and corporations must subscribe for a minimum of $5,000. > The RBZ revealed in April that these tokens, designed to counteract the country's unstable local currency, would be issued on May 8. Zimbabwe's inflation rate was recorded at 87.6% in March after reaching a staggering 285% in 2022. > The central bank has divided the token's issuance and usage into two stages. In the first stage, tokens will be issued for investment purposes and sold through banks. Continue here. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Memecoin[/quote][title]AI-Generated Turbo Memecoin Skyrockets to $30 Million Valuation in Just One Week[/title][body] The memecoin market is buzzing with excitement as the AI-assisted Turbo memecoin achieves a remarkable market capitalization of over $30 million within its first week. > ChatGPT, an AI tool, played a crucial role in the coin's creation. > Rhett Mankind, a digital artist, disclosed his use of ChatGPT and a modest $69 budget to conceive a memecoin capable of outperforming its rivals and securing a position among CoinGecko's top 300. > In a YouTube video, Mankind explained that ChatGPT was instrumental in selecting the memecoin's name, branding, and even generating its smart contract code. > Mankind's journey with ChatGPT started by choosing a name for the project. Full report here. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Borrow Program[/quote][title]Binance Accounts Tied to Islamic State and Hamas Seized by Israel[/title][body] Israeli authorities have confiscated nearly 190 cryptocurrency accounts on Binance since 2021, including two they claim are linked to the Islamic State and several others allegedly belonging to Palestinian firms associated with the Hamas group, according to documents released by Israel's National Bureau for Counter-Terror Financing (NBCTF). > On January 12, the NBCTF seized two Binance accounts and their contents, as stated in one of the documents on their website. > The objective of the seizure was to "disrupt the activities" of the Islamic State and "hinder its ability to further its objectives," as mentioned by the NBCTF. > The document, which has not been reported previously, did not provide information about the value of the confiscated crypto or how the accounts were connected to the Islamic State. Details here. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Crypto ATMs[/quote][title]UK's Financial Conduct Authority Targets Illegal Crypto ATMs[/title][body] The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the UK's financial watchdog, is intensifying its efforts to combat unregistered crypto ATMs. > In a statement released on Friday, the FCA reported that it had conducted inspections in Exeter, Nottingham, and Sheffield in collaboration with local police forces. > These crypto ATMs, which allow users to convert fiat currency into digital assets, are perceived as a risk for money laundering, and none have been registered with the FCA as required by law. > Therese Chambers, the FCA's Executive Director of Enforcement and Market Oversight, emphasized that operating crypto ATMs without FCA registration is illegal and that the authority will take action to halt such activities. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Transaction Fees[/quote][title]Memecoin Frenzy Sends Bitcoin Transaction Fees to a Two-Year High[/title][body]Bitcoin transaction fees have recently soared, reaching a two-year high, as data from Crypto Fees reveals. > On May 3, the total fees paid on the Bitcoin blockchain amounted to $3.5 million, marking a 400% increase since late April. YCharts data indicates that the average Bitcoin transaction fee peaked at $7.2. > The ongoing memecoin trading craze, featuring coins like Pepe Coin (PEPE), has inadvertently pushed Bitcoin's transaction costs to multi-year highs. > The current spike in BTC transaction fees is mainly due to a surge in Bitcoin activity involving BRC-20 transactions. > As Galaxy Research data shows, on May 2, BRC-20 transactions accounted for 50% of all Bitcoin transactions. [/body][/content] [content][quote]Crypto Market[/quote][title]Bitcoin Nears $30,000 Milestone as Memecoins Rally and Crypto Stocks Soar[/title][body] Bitcoin is making yet another effort to break past the significant $30,000 mark, while memecoins continue their recent surge amid a growing appetite for risk in global asset markets. > The leading cryptocurrency by market capitalization climbed up to 2.8% to approximately $29,690 during New York trading hours. > As a result, Bitcoin, which has fluctuated around $30,000 for around a month, is on track for its second consecutive weekly gain. > Ether, the second-largest token, surged by up to 6.5%, partly driven by a resurgence of interest in some of the most speculative tokens often traded on the Ethereum blockchain. > Pepe, the token linked to a popular internet meme featuring a green anthropomorphic frog, more than doubled on Friday, as per data from CoinGecko. > This increase has boosted the token's market value to over $1 billion, even though it still trades at a fraction of a cent. > Stocks related to cryptocurrencies experienced a rally as well. Coinbase Global saw an 18% jump, its largest daily increase since February, after the leading US crypto trading platform reported better-than-expected revenue and a smaller loss for the first quarter. > MicroStrategy, which announced a profit earlier in the week, thanks to a tax benefit, also enjoyed gains for a second day. [/body][/content]
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on May 8 asked bankrupt airline Go First to stop selling any more air tickets with immediate effect until further orders. The Indian aviation regulator has issued a show cause notice to the airline questioning why its licence should not be cancelled in view of its failure to operate flights. The DGCA has given GoFirst till May 24 to respond after which a decision will be taken by the regulator on Go First's Air Operator Certificate. The DGCA in its notice to Go First asked the airline why its AOC should not be revoked over "failure to continue ops in safe, efficient & reliable manner". In view of the sudden cancellation of flights and initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) by Go Airlines (India) Limited (Go First), DGCA has issued a show cause notice to Go First under the relevant provisions of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, for their failure to continue the operation of the service in a safe, efficient and reliable manner, said a senior DGCA official. ALSO READ: Lessors won't be able to repossess GoFirst aircraft if bankruptcy code kicks in The airline had on May 8 stopped the sale of tickets on its website and also on online travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, etc. Go First has cancelled all flights since May 3 and moved a plea with the NCLT to begin voluntary insolvency proceedings. The stalled domestic carrier on May 8 asked the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to expedite an order on its plea for a moratorium. The cash-strapped airline has cited urgency as the tribunal had on May 4 reserved its order on the issue. ALSO READ : MC Exclusive | Cash burn of Rs 200 crore a month leaves GoFirst broke: CEO Go First has informed the NCLT that it has received notices from lessors for termination, and has also moved the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in this matter. Lessors are beginning to take possession when NCLT is seized of the case. We are not being allowed access for maintenance work, the company has told the tribunal. Go First, in its petition filed before the tribunal on May 2, sought directions to restrain aircraft lessors from taking any recovery action as well as restrain aviation watchdog DGCA and suppliers of essential goods and services from initiating adverse actions. Another request is that the DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators should not cancel any departure and parking slots allotted to the company. ALSO READ : Present tense, future imperfect for employees as Go First heads for insolvency The airline also wants fuel suppliers to continue supply for aircraft operations and not terminate the present contractual arrangements. With liabilities of Rs 11,463 crore and a financial crunch, the Wadia group-owned airline has sought voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings as well as an interim moratorium on financial obligations. After hearing the plea on May 4, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) reserved its order.
Japanese investment bank Daiwa Securities has reached an agreement to acquire a minority stake in Ambit Private, a Mumbai-based financial services company, for an undisclosed sum. Daiwa will appoint a representative to serve on Ambit's board of directors and recognise it as an equity method affiliate, the two companies said in a statement on May 8. The agreement was signed on April 26. The transaction is subject to customary conditions precedent and regulatory approvals and will move forward according to plan once these requirements are met, the statement said. Ambit will have the opportunity to tap into Daiwa's extensive global network. This will enable Ambit to expand its reach and bring its products and services to global markets. With Ambit's institutional broking expertise, the company can further promote India's public equities opportunities to clients worldwide, the release said. In the initial phase, both companies will work together to serve global clients in the areas of institutional equities and equity capital markets (including IPOs, public fundraising, and other related businesses), leveraging the Indo-Japan corridor. Pan-Asia ex Japan is a key region where we have the biggest business operations other than Japan. Especially, we see India as a strategically important country, which is expected to grow in the long run. Daiwa president and CEO Seiji Nakata said. Ambit Group has dealt with securities businesses and NBFC businesses, which enables them to provide the most proper solution to various client segments, he said. "Im pleased that Daiwa will be able to offer more investment opportunities to our clients with Ambit Group, thanks to this renewed business partnership," Nakata said.

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The Gautam Budh Nagar district administration on May 8 briefly detained RK Arora, chairman of real estate developer Supertech, for failure to pay dues worth Rs 33 crore against the recovery certificates (RCs) issued by the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (UPRERA) against him. Arora was later released after he assured the administration that he would pay up the amount in a time-bound manner, officials privy to the development said. According to district administration officials, RCs worth Rs 33 crore were issued against Supertech by UPRERA which prompted the action. Vandita Srivastava, Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Gautam Budh Nagar, said that Supertech had failed to clear dues of Rs 33 crore following RCs issued by UPRERA. RK Arora was arrested following RCs of Rs 33 crore issued by UPRERA. The arrest was part of our action against defaulting builders. Arora had not shown any intent to clear the dues during 'Munadi' so we arrested him, but later we released him after he promised to pay Rs 7 crore in 10 days time and the remaining amount in fractions in a scheduled payment manner, Srivastava told Moneycontrol. She said that Arora has been released with a warning that if the promised amount is not paid within 10 days then appropriate action will be taken against him. However, Supertech in a statement said: There is some fake news circulating in the media that RK Arora has been arrested. It is fake news. He was in SDM office for a regular meeting. Background Earlier last month, the district administration had sealed the office of Supertech Group in Noida Sector 96 over unpaid dues. The district administration had lately initiated recovery action against defaulter developers over pending dues after UPRERA issued RCs against 51 builders who cumulatively owed Rs 502 crore. The recovery action started on April 7 when the district administration formed 40 teams, comprising clerks and tehsildars, to identify the properties of defaulter builders and initiate action which included name and shame of defaulters, sealing of offices and properties of defaulters. District administration officials said that the UPRERA had issued the recovery certificates following pleas filed by homebuyers and investors who demanded their money back from developers, who failed to deliver housing projects. Supertech has been in the news for all the wrong reasons for quite some time. The developer is also currently undergoing a corporate insolvency process. Apart from non-payment of dues and pending registries and projects, Supertech has been in the news over the demolition of its illegally constructed twin towers in sector 93 A. Supertech's illegal twin towers located in Noida Sector 93A were demolished in a controlled implosion on August 28, 2022, following a Supreme Court order. The apex court had ruled that the towers were in violation of norms and were a result of a nexus between Supertech and some Noida authority officials. 
The Indian financial sector is well-protected from the "daunting" global financial situation, Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth said on May 8. "...the global financial situation is daunting. But at the same time, the Indian economy and especially the Indian financial sector, is well protected. Well regulated systems are there," Seth said. However, he warned that India has to be cautious and be on the look out for early warning indicators that provide signs of financial sector stress. ALSO READ: Essential for emerging economies to become engines of growth, help resolve global crisis: Sitharaman Seth was speaking to the media following the meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) in New Delhi. The latest meeting of the FSDC, chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is the first since the 2023-24 Budget was presented on February 1. As such, it is also the first meeting of the Council since banking-related issues erupted in the US and Europe. Seth said the FSDC discussed the issue of financial stability and how it was was "a shared responsibility" of all regulators. The Council also discussed the issue of cyber-security. "higher level of preparedness is needed for cyber-security of all regulated entities, especially the large regulated entities, systemically important financial institutions, as well as financial market infrastructure," Seth said. The secretary also said the FSDC discussed the issue of unclaimed deposits at its meeting. "Regulators should conduct a special drive to facilitate the settlement of unclaimed deposits and claims in the financial sector across all segments, such as banking deposits, shares and dividends, mutual funds, insurance, etc," the government said in a statement. The Sitharaman-chaired FSDC meeting was attended by the two ministers of state for finances, secretaries from the finance and corporate affairs ministry, and heads of financial sector regulators.
Lenders to crisis-ridden Go First, which are owed over Rs 6,000 crore, are adopting a wait-and-watch approach before deciding to provide the airline with additional funds, a top banker said. Presently, it is status quo. At this point, I suppose banks aren't open for fresh funding due to uncertainty (on operations) and initiation of bankruptcy, the banker said. The comment assumes significance as Go First is currently facing a funding crunch that pushed it to file for bankruptcy. However, experts said banks may ultimately fund the airline because its loans are still standard assets, which are not classified as bad loans. Also read: MC Explains: What is Section 10 of IBC and what it means for crisis-ridden Go First The airline may ask creditors for more funds, a person aware of the matter told Moneycontrol. The Wadia Group-backed airline said May 2 it halted flights and filed for voluntary insolvency resolution after grounding half of its fleet because of faulty engines supplied by US manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. Experts said banks that have already lent to the domestic budget carrier may be ready to advance more money. The airline, in its voluntary insolvency application, said it has not defaulted on any payments. Considering this, there is no risk to the lenders and they will give more funds, said Sonam Chandwani, managing partner at KS Legal & Associates. Also read: DGCA orders Go First to stop selling air tickets with immediate effect An insolvency professional who worked on another airlines proceedings said on condition of anonymity that Go First had kept banks in the dark when it went ahead with its insolvency proceedings. But if the Wadia Group gives backing or financial guarantees to the creditors, then banks will look at funding the airline, the insolvency professional said. Bank exposure to Go First Go Firsts Insolvency and Bankruptcy petition was filed under Section 10, instead of Sections 7 and 9. While Section 10 allows a debtor to initiate insolvency proceedings against itself, Sections 7 and 9 allow creditors to take the debtor to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to recover dues. Go First owes lenders including Bank of Baroda, Central Bank of India, Deutsche Bank and IDBI Bank Rs 6,521 crore, according to the airlines filing. Central Bank of India had the highest exposure of Rs 1,987 crore, followed by Bank of Baroda at Rs 1,430 crore, Deutsche Bank at Rs 1,320 crore and IDBI Bank at Rs 58 crore, Acuite Ratings and Research said in a January 19 report. The banks will ask for more clarity on the insolvency of the airline and if they find it suitable, they may give more funds, said Sanjay Agarwal, senior director at Care Ratings. Also read: MC Exclusive | Cash burn of Rs 200 crore a month leaves GoFirst broke: CEO A banking analyst, who did not wish to be identified, said Go First had a good business history and market share. Considering these things, the lenders do not see any risk, the analyst said. Insolvency proceedings In its application, Go First blamed Pratt & Whitney for its situation, saying the engine maker refused to comply with the award issued by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) in favour of the airline. The SIAC asked Pratt & Whitney on March 30 to provide Go First with 10 serviceable engines by April 27, 2023, and 10 engines each month till December this year. The airline is seeking compensation from Pratt & Whitney for the faulty engines. However, with fewer operating aircraft, its market share shrank, leading to a loss of revenue and delayed payments to vendors. On April 28, Go First moved a petition before the Delaware court, seeking enforcement of the Singapore arbitration panel's award. Also read: Go First Insolvency: IndiGo may ride the tailwind, analysts see duopoly ahead Pratt & Whitney said in a statement on May 3 that it is committed to the success of its airline customers. We continue to prioritise delivery schedules for all customers. P&W is complying with the March 2023 arbitration ruling related to Go First. As this is now a matter of litigation, we will not comment further, it said. Kaushik Khona, chief executive officer of Go First Airlines, said Go First needs at least 20 aircraft to return to service and break even on daily operations. He said the airline had been spending about Rs 200 crore every month since November. Email queries sent to Go First were unanswered at the time of publishing the article.
People who had booked tickets on Go First flights that were cancelled seem to be staring at a longer wait for refunds as the airline is expected to request some time from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to raise the necessary funds, multiple sources aware of the issue told Moneycontrol. Go First is likely to ask the NCLT for a moratorium to raise money in order to provide refunds of tickets for flights cancelled after May 2, a source involved with the airline said. He added that while providing refunds to customers is of the highest priority for Go First, the processing procedure is likely to take a couple of weeks. Another source close to the airline said that Go First and its promoters may soon raise around Rs 200 crore to finance the refunds as well as to pay all its employees. Passengers, who have booked tickets through travel agents and online portals are likely to see their tickets refunded sooner, but passengers who booked tickets directly on the airlines website or mobile application may have to wait longer, the second person said. A third person in the know said that the airline is hoping that some customers may also be interested in free tickets as compensation once the airline restarts operations. Paying the salaries of its employees and providing refunds to passengers is of utmost importance to Go First and its promoters. However, the airline is hoping that some passengers believe in the airline and opt for future tickets instead of direct refunds, this person said. He added that if the NCLT promptly hears Go Firsts plea and if the Delaware federal court upholds the order by the Singapore International Arbitration Commission (SIAC) in its dispute with engine supplier Pratt and Whitney, the airline will be in a position to restart operations soon and the airline may be able to offer its customers alternative flights as well. The SIAC had, on March 30, ordered Pratt & Whitney to provide Go First with at least 10 serviceable engines by April 27, 2023, and the remainder by the year-end. After Pratt & Whitney refused to comply, the SIAC on April 15 issued a second arbitral award, asking the US-based company to comply with its order. Pratt & Whitney, however, has still refused to adhere to the order and had committed to supply Go First with only three serviceable engines by May-end, the airline said. Go First had said that it was forced to cancel flights as it had to ground more than half its fleet of Airbus 320neo planes due to lack of availability of spares and spare engines from Pratt and Whitney. Go First's refund dues to passengers have risen to around Rs 450-500 crore as the airline has cancelled flights till May 15 and the DGCA on May 8 ordered the airline to stop accepting bookings. Last week, the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) urged that the ultra-low-cost carrier directly credit the ticket refund amount to agents' bank accounts as many passengers are seeking refunds, adding that Go First could do so out of the agents' funds deposited in a credit shell with the airline. A credit shell account is a credit note created against a cancelled PNR to be used for a future booking, for the same passenger/s. The loss-making budget carrier was burning around Rs 200 crore of cash every month since November. No longer able to afford it, it had to resort to filing for insolvency before the NCLT, Kaushik Khona the airline's Chief Executive Officer had said last week. Khona said that Go First needs at least 20 aircraft to return to service and break even on daily operations. We have requested NCLT to expedite taking up the insolvency of Go First. We are hopeful that the NCLT will help resolve cash inflow issues faced by Go First due to noncompliance by P&W, Khona said. Go First would be able to return to full-scale operations by September 2023 if Pratt and Whitney provides the airline with the engines, as stipulated in the SIAC order, Khona noted The airline is seeking $ 1.1 billion in damages from the engine maker, whom it blames for the airlines collapse. We have already crossed 20,000 aircraft on ground (AOG) days in the last three years, losing almost $55,000 each day. This means that my compensation alone, or my loss, which I can claim from Pratt & Whitney alone, will be around $1.1 billion, Khona had said. To ensure this happens, we will tap into many more jurisdictions across the world, some of which are in the US, one in Germany, one in Japan and maybe one or two more in Europe and Singapore, he added. Apart from asking asked the bankrupt airline to stop selling any more tickets on May 8 with immediate effect until further orders, the DGCA also issued a notice to the airline asking why its licence should not be cancelled in view of its failure to operate flights. The aviation regulator has given Go First till May 24 to respond after which a decision will be taken on the airlines Air Operator Certificate. The DGCA in its notice to Go First asked the airline why its AOC should not be revoked over failure to continue ops in a safe, efficient & reliable manner. What's the refund process for Go Firsts cancelled flights? The airline said that customers, who had booked the flights for the mentioned dates will be fully compensated. A full refund will be issued to the original mode of payment shortly. We acknowledge the flight cancellations might have disrupted your travel plans and we are committed to providing all the assistance we can, the airline announced on its website. In addition, the airline has provided a detailed FAQ with information on how customers can claim refunds for cancelled flights. Customers, who booked directly through the airlines website will get a refund processed through their source account. The refunds will be processed to the respective modes of payment. We shall keep you updated on the proceedings. Thank you for your understanding, the airline said. Customers, who booked through online travel aggregators will also get a refund in the source account, according to the airline. However, if a refund is not issued, customers can also get in touch with the online travel aggregator for more information.
Stalled domestic carrier Go First has approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), seeking orders on its plea for moratorium. The cash-strapped airline has cited urgency as the tribunal had on May 4 reserved its order on the issue. Go First has informed the NCLT that it has received notices from lessors for termination, and has also moved the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in this matter. Lessors are beginning to take possession when NCLT is seized of the case. We are not being allowed access for maintenance work, the company has told the tribunal, CNBC-TV18 reported. Also Read | GoFirst fleet may fly out of reaches for lessors if bankruptcy code kicks in Go First, in its petition filed before the tribunal on May 2, sought directions to restrain aircraft lessors from taking any recovery action as well as restrain aviation watchdog DGCA and suppliers of essential goods and services from initiating adverse actions. Another request is that the DGCA, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators should not cancel any departure and parking slots allotted to the company. The airline also wants fuel suppliers to continue supply for aircraft operations and not terminate the present contractual arrangements. Also Read | Wadia Group considering a one-time settlement offer for Go First Notably, as Go First awaits the NCLT ruling on its voluntary insolvency resolution plea, the tribunal is also set to hear two petitions seeking insolvency proceedings against the crisis-hit airline, today on May 8. With liabilities of Rs 11,463 crore and a financial crunch, the Wadia group-owned airline has sought voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings as well as an interim moratorium on financial obligations. After hearing the plea on May 4, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) reserved its order. The tribunal is set to hear two insolvency petitions filed against the airline on today, according to lawyers.
The Union government on May 8 announced a ban of the import of apples if its imported price is less than Rs 50 per Kg. "Import of applesis prohibited wherever the CIF (cost, insurance, freight) import price is less than equal to Rs 50 per Kg," the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification. However, minimum import price condition shall not be applicable for imports from Bhutan, the DGFT said. Also Read: US seeks removal of tariffs on American apples imported by India India imported apples worth $296 million in 2023 against $385.1 million in 2022. The main countries which export apples to India include the US, Iran, Brazil, UAE, Afghanistan, France, Belgium, Chile, Italy, Turkey, New Zealand, South Africa and Poland. (With PTI inputs)

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Go Airlines India Ltd., which went under citing Pratt & Whitney engine failures, is optimistic about resuming flights within seven days if the bankruptcy court restrains lessors from taking back its aircraft. The airline, controlled by billionaire Nusli Wadias group, has enough funds to sustain operations on a cash-and-carry model for about 10 days, Chief Executive Officer Kaushik Khona said in an interview Saturday. Go Air is also seeking to request for an outstanding emergency credit it is eligible under the Indian governments program to offer life-support to pandemic-hit industries, he said. We will hundred percent be able to save the airline if the court starts the insolvency resolution process immediately, said Khona. All our stakeholders, including oil suppliers, service providers are aligned to the fact that we have been continuously cooperating and transparent with them. Go Air  now re-branded as Go First  filed for insolvency protection on Tuesday after half of its Airbus SE A320neo fleet were grounded with engine snags, setting the airline back by 108 billion rupees ($1.3 billion) in lost revenue and additional expenses. It has sought a moratorium from Indias bankruptcy court to restrain lessors from taking back its aircraft and creditors from cashing guarantees and letters of credit, the chief executive said. The court is yet to deliver its final ruling after it heard the case on Thursday, but lessors such as Dublins GY Aviation Lease, SMBC Aviation Capital and Pembroke Aircraft Leasing started moving in to take back possession of at least 20 Airbus jets. Problems with Pratt engines have affected the airline industry worldwide ahead of the peak summer travel season. Deutsche Lufthansa AG has a third of its A220 fleet temporarily grounded in Zurich because of issues with Pratt engines. Turkish Airlines has sought leased engines and support from Pratt to repair its grounded A320neo aircraft. Go Air has said the combustor of Pratt engines degraded much faster than it should, causing premature failures and shutdowns. That technical snag forced the airline to remove 140 engines between 2016 and February 2023, out of a total 510 defective GTF engines that had to be changed and swapped during that period. Go Air has 16 undelivered Airbus aircraft, Khona said, adding the airline is talking to the European planemaker about the engine issues and has asked it to hold the deliveries of three jets. The airline owes creditors about 39 billion rupees, which is secured by its own assets and its owner Wadia Groups land parcel valued at 30 billion rupees. We proactively want the airline to survive, said Khona, who rejoined Go Air in 2020 after heading the airline for three years through 2011. I have a lot of emotions attached to this airline. Go Air was the baby I nurtured.
While the Indian passenger vehicle (PV) market is poised for a 5-7 percent growth during 2023, the luxury segment of that pie is bracing for yet another year of double-digit growth. Having already witnessed robust growth in numbers during the first quarter (Q1) of this calendar year (CY), luxury carmakers, such as Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volvo, among others, are hoping to sustain the momentum, thanks to improvement in the supply of semiconductor chips and other components. That will enable the high-end carmakers to grow at twice the rate of the overall PV market. As per industry estimates, around 34,000 luxury vehicles were sold in India in 2022, which was an increase of around 50 percent from the year before, but still below the all-time high of around 40,000 units in 2018. Puneet Gupta, Director S&P Global Mobility predicts a near-25 percent growth to 42,000 units this calendar year. He claims that in spite of production issues, India is expected to record highest ever sales of premium cars this year. Volumes off to a flying start in Q1 CY 2023 Mercedes-Benz India posted its best ever first quarter (Q1, January to March) sales numbers registering 17 percent growth at 4,697 units. The countrys largest luxury car maker, which grew by 41 percent during the last calendar year at 15,822 units, aims to maintain the double-digit growth chart on the back of 10 new launches in 2023. Watch: Demand for both new & pre-owned luxury cars rise We're very happy with our progress so far, and we see that we'll close the year with double-digit growth, Lance Bennett, VP, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes Benz India, told Moneycontrol recently. He also said, If you consider the first quarter, we had 17 percent growth, and that too without the (all-new) GLC (SUV). Were pretty confident that when we get that model, we will continue to sustain the momentum in the third quarter of this year. He, however, did not share any guidance on the rate of growth for the company, going forward. Another luxury carmaker, BMW Group India, too posted its best year in 2022, and is looking to replicate the success on the back of the order pipeline it has for the next few quarters. Last calendar year, the group sold 11,981 premium cars of both Mini and BMW brands, registering a growth of 35 percent. ALSO READ: Indian Uber luxury car market on a superhighway cruise Between December (2022) and January (2023), we launched eight products in eight weeks, and that has given us a fast start in 2023. We have now created an order pipeline of demand of more than 5,500 cars. Of course, it will not reflect in our numbers as of now, because the supply will start from the second quarter or perhaps the third quarter of this year, Vikram Pawah, President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), BMW Group India, told Moneycontrol recently. He went on to add, Our intention, very clearly, is to create a record year. But I don't give a prognosis (on growth rates). You will see at the end of the year. Pawah acknowledged that supplies of components are a matter of concern, as there are logistical challenges and the semiconductor issue is not fully resolved yet. But other than that, from the demand side, we see very robust demand. It's the supply side we need to match up now. And that's why you will see a little bit of delay between demand and supply. On similar lines, Audi India witnessed 126 percent year-on-year (YoY) growth in Q1 2023 by retailing 1,950 cars. The German carmaker claimed that it registered a 27 percent growth in 2022 in spite of several global supply-chain impediments, the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage, and a slew of other challenges. It is forecasting double-digit growth in 2023. As per Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, the YOLO (You Only Love Once) attitude coupled with pent-up demand after the pandemic were the factors aiding growth. In his view, this year the luxury car segment will top the 2018 record volumes, surpassing it by a significant margin. Yes, the semiconductor challenge isnt over  it continues to cause supply delays. We expect to end 2023 with double-digit growth. The new technology-rich products, a new electric launch this year in quarter three (Q8 e-tron electric SUV), high disposable incomes in the hands of consumers, and the upcoming festival season will help our growth this year, stated Dhillon, in response to email queries sent by Moneycontrol. Swedish luxury carmaker Volvo revealed that it had achieved 38 percent growth in Q1 2023; it projects total sales of close to 3,000 vehicles in 2023. In Q1 2023, it sold 544 cars, of which the XC60 registered a 27 percent growth, and the locally assembled all-electric XC40 Recharge accounted for 25 percent of the total volumes. Furthermore, it expects its electric models to account for nearly 50 percent of the pie in 2023. The performance in the first quarter is a good indicator and the company is confident that the coming quarters will show better results, affirmed Volvo Car India Managing Director Jyoti Malhotra. Lexus India and JLR India did not share their sales figures till the story was published. Despite the phenomenal growth in sales of hi-end models, the luxury car market in India accounted for just 1 percent of the overall PV market in 2022. This may go up by just 0.1 or 0.2 percent this year. Industry players reckon that with the rising number of new-age entrepreneurs, millionaires, and female buyers, this segment has the potential to account for 3-5 percent of the overall PV market by the end of the decade. Ravi Bhatia, Managing Director of JATO Dynamics, opines that this year the luxury car market in India could continue to grow at a steady pace, driven by factors such as the increasing number of affluent consumers, the rising demand for more eco-friendly and technologically-advanced vehicles (electric luxury cars), and the launch of new luxury car models by manufacturers. However, the growth in the market could be impacted by various factors, including changes in government policies, economic instability, and global market trends, he said.
The Nifty50 had a strong day as it remained higher throughout the session on May 8. The index recouped all its Friday losses and closed at a fresh 2023 high, driven by banking & financial services, auto, FMCG, technology, and metal stocks. The index opened higher at 18,121 and as the day progressed it extended gains up to 18,287 in the later part of the session. Finally, the index jumped 195.40 points or 1.08 percent to close at 18,264 and formed a bullish candlestick pattern on the daily charts, making higher high and higher low formations. The index successfully surpassed the short-term resistance of 18,200 levels. It needs to hold on to the same to march towards the 18,300-18,500 area, with support at the psychological 18,000 mark, experts said. "Post reversal, the index successfully cleared the short-term resistance of 18,200, which is broadly positive. On daily charts, the index has formed a bullish candle and currently, it is comfortably trading above the 18,200 level, which would be the sacrosanct support level," Shrikant Chouhan, Head of Equity Research (Retail) at Kotak Securities said. Above the same, the index could move up to 18,350-18,400, whereas on the flip side below 18,200, the uptrend would be vulnerable, he feels. On the Option front, the weekly maximum Call open interest was at 18,500 strikes, followed by 18,300 strikes and 18,200 strikes, with Call writing at 18,500 strikes, then 18,400-18,300 strikes, whereas the maximum Put open interest was at 18,200 strikes, followed by 18,100 and 18,000 strikes, with Put writing at 18,200 strikes, then 18,300 strike. The above Option data indicated that the trading range for Nifty50 in coming sessions is expected to be 18,000-18,500. Bank Nifty opened on a positive note at 42,797 and extended its move towards 43,419 levels during the session. The index closed the day with decent gains of 623 points or 1.46 percent at 43,284 and formed a big bullish candle on a daily scale as good buying was seen in banking stocks, but it failed to surpass its previous days high. "The index has to continue to hold above the 43,000 mark to make up move towards 43,600, then 43,750 levels, whereas on the downside support is expected at 43,000 then 42,750 levels," Chandan Taparia, Senior Vice President | Analyst-Derivatives at Motilal Oswal Financial Services. The volatility has been rising for yet another session. India VIX, which measures the expected volatility for the next thirty days in the Nifty, was up by 2.76 percent from 12.30 to 12.64 levels. The broader markets also gained strength with the Nifty Midcap 100 and Smallcap 100 indices rallying around 1 percent each. Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Moneycontrol.com are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on May 8 imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 1.73 crore on the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd for contravention of Credit Information Companies Rules, 2006. The examination of the Risk Assessment Report and all related correspondences pertaining to the same revealed, inter alia, contravention of the aforesaid rules by the bank to the extent that it furnished incorrect credit information in respect of a number of expired credit cards with nil dues, to all the four Credit Information Companies, the RBI said in a release. A notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why the penalty should not be imposed for contravention of the said provisions of CIC Rules, as stated therein. After considering the banks reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, the RBI came to the conclusion that the charge of contravention of the aforesaid CIC Rules was substantiated and warranted imposition of monetary penalty, the release said. This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers.

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In order to put stalled real estate projects on track and bring ease in self-redevelopment of housing societies, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is also the housing minister of the state, on May 8, directed the state administration to fast-track implementation of the self-redevelopment policy approved by the government back in 2019. For this, a dedicate cell will be formed. Along with this, the Maharashtra government is also expected to come up with a policy for stalled real estate projects. According to the 2019 policy, several incentives were being offered to co-operative housing societies that wanted to opt for self-redevelopment. This included exemption on the minimum requirements of nine-metre road for fire approval, Goods and Services Tax (GST) rebate, and partial relief in premiums paid for real estate projects followed by approvals for floor space index (FSI). However, after the policy was approved in 2019, there was a change of government in Maharashtra. And then in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the state. Valsa Nair Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing Department in Maharashtra, told Moneycontrol, "There was a policy formed by the state government in 2019, but after the policy was formed there was a change of government. Hence, the policy could not be followed in toto." She added, "The meeting was a review of the 2019 policy on where we stand today. All the departments have been directed to implement the policy on self-redevelopment, especially the incentives and concessions." Also read: Here's a list of India's most delayed projects in India A state government official said, "A dedicated single window will be created in Mumbai for self-redevelopment and the applications received there will be processed within three months. In the meeting, it was also discussed to have the cooperative department involve all the banks which will come forward to provide financial assistance for self-redevelopment. This will be followed by the finance department preparing a proposal regarding the provision of GST rebate and interest rebate for self-redevelopment." Also read: Homeowners of stalled redevelopment projects in Mumbai get relief as President signs bill to amend MHADA Act Developers welcome move Sandeep Runwal, President, NAREDCO Maharashtra, an apex body of real estate developers, said, "Stalled redevelopment projects have become a bane for so many residents of Mumbai. These residents are deprived of the basic necessity of shelter. They have to make ends meet to support themselves and their families amidst the rent payout, bank EMIs, etc. This is a great initiative taken by the chief minister, and we at NAREDCO Maharashtra are looking forward to working together in finding a quick and lasting solution."
In a first, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) may temporarily suspend registrations of more than 500 real estate development projects registered in the state in January 2023, that have not uploaded the quarterly progress reports (QPR). According to MahaRERA, these 500-plus projects, among the 750 that were registered in January in Maharashtra, have not uploaded their QPRs three months after registration. Owing to this, warning notices will be issued to these projects, most of which are in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). What happens to the homebuyers? Once project registrations are put under suspension, the developer cannot market, advertise, or sell apartments in the project until the suspension order is revoked. According to MahaRERA officials, since the action is against only those projects registered in January 2023, only a few homebuyers will be affected. Also, their rights remain intact once the suspension is lifted by MahaRERA following necessary compliance by the developers. The focus is currently on projects registered in January. MahaRERA officials say they plan to catch the defaulters early. "It is not like projects registered a year ago do not have such violations. However, we want to catch the new lot fresh. For the old lot, we have issued more than 19,500 notices for non-compliance for which case-by-case action is under process," said one of them. What does it mean for lenders? According to MahaRERA, once a project is placed under suspension, all activities relating to construction, marketing, advertising and selling will be put on hold. "We will also notify the banks post-suspension of the project. Banks, where the developers maintain the designated escrow accounts are maintained, will be informed," said a MahaRERA official. As per Section 4 (2) (D) of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, promoters are required to open a separate account in a scheduled bank exclusively for the project. Under the RERA regime, 70 percent of the amounts realised from real estate project allottees (buyers) is to be deposited in a separate RERA-designated no-lien, no-charge bank account to cover the cost of land and construction for the given project. Quarterly progress reports not being updated a national problem QPRs allow homebuyers to track the actual status of construction and progress of projects every quarter, which enables them to decide whether or not to invest in the project. The problem of builders not uploading QPRs is a national problem not limited to Maharashtra. It is prevalent in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka as well. The Gujarat RERA levies penalty on developers on a per-day basis in case of delay or for failing to upload QPRs. In Uttar Pradesh, UPRERA had also warned developers about levying penalties if they do not submit these reports. UPRERA in April this year had asked developers to upload the QPR of their projects on its portal by April 20, failing which a penalty of Rs 10,000 per quarter was to be imposed. The authority noted that many promoters do not upload QPRs regularly on the portal, which is contrary to the objectives of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act. Sources in UPRERA said that until the end of April 2023, almost 760 promoters had been penalised about Rs 18 crore collectively for non-filing of QPRs with the portal. Action under what provisions? Under the act, developers are required to submit project status, the financial position of the project, booking numbers, annual reports, quarterly reports, and other details. "As per Section 11 of the RERA Act, the developers after receiving the RERA registration number of their project are expected to upload quarterly progress reports. However, the compliance level is very low in the fresh projects registered in January 2023. Out of the over 700 registrations, more than 500 have not given any quarterly update, and around 200 developers have given some or the other type of update," a senior MahaRERA official told Moneycontrol, asking not to be named. The official added, "We will issue them notices and ask them to comply, and if they do not comply and upload quarterly progress reports, we are planning to suspend their registration number until they do. This will ensure that they cannot further market or sell for such projects. However, if the compliance is done after notices, no further action will be taken," Non-compliance ratio On February 18, Moneycontrol reported MahaRERA's statement of around 75 to 80 percent of ongoing registered projects in Maharashtra not regularly uploading QPRs on project status and finances. Owing to this, the complete data about a particular project was unavailable in the public domain on the MahaRERA website. MahaRERA had also issued notices to over 19,500 projects over non-compliance. Owing to these 19,500 notices sent by MahaRERA, Forum for People's Collective Efforts had asked MahaRERA to compensate homebuyers as they were compelled to take a decision on buying a home based on incomplete information made available by the developers on the regulatory website. Sanjay Deshmukh, nodal officer for MahaRERA's lapsed project vertical, during a panel discussion on February 17 said, "As per the RERA Act, a developer is supposed to submit quarterly and annual reports. However, for about 75-80 percent of the ongoing projects, quarterly reports were not uploaded. We have issued notices and developers have begun the compliance process." According to MahaRERA data, over 21,500 projects are currently underway and close to 40,000 have been registered in the last six years. How many projects are registered in Maharashtra? According to MahaRERA data, over 40,000 projects have been registered in Maharashtra in the six years since the authority came into being in May 2017. Of these, more than 12,000 projects have been completed, while more than 20,000 have complaints against them. What more can MahaRERA do? Trupti Daphtary, an advocate and solicitor based in Mumbai, said, "It is a violation of Section 11 of RERA Act if a developer fails to make quarterly project updates as required under the Act and consequently will be liable to penal action." She added, "However, apart from it, the MahaRERA portal can have a separate tab for those developers who have failed to comply with the QPRs providing the information of the details of non-compliance for the benefit of the allottees. This will help homebuyers take a better decision, and along with these educational videos and other material could be circulated for the benefit of developers to educate them about the consequences for not providing quarterly progress reports."
The Karnataka High Court has held in an order that sanction plans and occupancy certificates (OCs) cannot be withdrawn just because the state government has recalled the Revised Master Plan (RMP) 2031. The court granted a petition filed by a landowner, Bhavani Yallappa Palyaga and developer Maarq Spaces Private Ltd, for the construction of an apartment in southern Bengaluru's Varthur. The order, dated April 19, 2023, said that even if the state government recalled a master plan, it wouldn't be able to undo any construction that had already been undertaken. Advocates say the order will set a precedent and will provide a respite to several homebuyers in the city. What is the case? The landowner and the developer signed a joint venture agreement in December 2016. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) had sanctioned the master plan in 2018 and a commencement certificate was issued in 2019. On completion of the project, the petitioners applied for and obtained a no-objection certificate (NOC) from Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSBCB) as also an electricity provider connection from Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM). Additionally, the petitioners applied for an OC in May 2022. However, the state government recalled RMP 2031 in June 2022. At this point, BBMP contended that there was a proposed road, measuring 18 metres, going through the property, according to RMP 2015, and therefore, refused to grant OC. The petitioners said that according to RMP 2031 issued in 2017, there was no road proposed and the same was used for sanction plans in 2018. "The BBMP cannot now rely on the withdrawal of the provisional RMP 2031 to deny the OC to the petitioners," the landowner and the developer argued before the court. BBMP told the Karnataka High Court that when the application for the OC was submitted, the state government had withdrawn RMP 2031, and thus RMP 2015 would automatically come back into force. "The corporation had no option but to consider the said application in light of the revised master plan RMP 2015," they said. High Courts findings The court noted that construction was done as per the sanction plan, after obtaining all permissions. The court stated that RMP 2031's withdrawal in June 2022 is the only reason behind the OCs denial. "The application for occupancy was made in May 2022 when provisional master plan 2031 was still in force," the bench presiding over the case said. Additionally, the court said there is no allegation against the petitioners for illegal construction or having deviated from the plan. "After starting construction on the basis of the approved sanction plan, BBMP cannot withdraw the OC just because the state government recalled the master plan," the order added. "Even if the state government recalled the master plan, it won't reverse any action taken in its accordance. The petitioners have acted as per the sanction plan applicable with the law and thus withdrawal of the OC is not sustainable," the order concluded. Will set a larger precedent: Advocates Advocates say though this is an isolated incident, the order will serve as a precedent and will offer protection to homebuyers and developers alike. Advocate Srinivas, who goes by one name, said: "The case here is particular as the application of the OC has been made before the state government withdrew RMP 2031." However, homebuyers and even developers can refer to this order in future, even if they have applied for OC after the date of withdrawal of the RMP. "The order clearly states that once a sanction plan has been approved based on an RMP, even if the master plan is withdrawn, the developments cannot be reversed," he concluded.
The Enforcement Directorate on Monday seized three offices in a prime location in Mumbai, valued more than Rs 41 crore, as part of a foreign exchange violation probe against a businessman whose name figured in the Panama Papers. In a statement, the federal probe agency said the action was taken against Zavareh Soli Poonawalla and his family members. They are accused of "remitting foreign exchange abroad by mis-utilising the provisions of the LRS (Liberalised Remittance Scheme)", it said. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized three immovable assets located at the Ceejay House in Mumbai's Worli area to the extent of Rs 41.64 crore under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), the statement said. Poonawalla and his family "used the maximum permissible limit (as available under the LRS) and from the year 2011-12, they remitted money abroad via mis-declarations under the pretext of 'family maintenance and self-maintenance' etc", the agency said. "However, none of their family members was residing abroad or holding NRI status," it alleged. The entire funds remitted by Poonawalla, whose name was found in the Panama Papers revelations regarding offshore entities, and his family members under LRS were invested into British Virgin Islands-based Stallast Limited, the ED said. Dubbed the 'Panama Papers', an investigation of a stockpile of records from Panamanian legal firm Mossack Fonseca by Washington-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) in 2016 had named several world leaders and celebrities who allegedly stashed away money abroad in offshore companies. Investigators have said not all people whose name figured in this list were offenders. The ED found that funds remitted by Poonawalla and his family members were utilised by Stallast Limited to "purchase" four apartments in the Paddington area of central London. Multiple FEMA contraventions were seen in these transactions, it alleged. The ED said besides "mis-declarations" in remittances, Poonawalla and his family members also "wrongly" claimed these investments as foreign portfolio investments. In reality, the foreign entity was completely controlled by them and thus, they did overseas direct investment in a foreign wholly owned subsidiary without due permission of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the agency said. The foreign assets were not declared to the RBI, and they continued to hold the foreign assets and are in continuous enjoyment of the same, it alleged. "The properties abroad were acquired through the funds remitted under LRS to avoid reporting requirements to RBI and thus, Poonawalla mis-utilised the LRS," the ED said. "Therefore, the equivalent value of properties held by them in India have been seized under the provisions of Section 37A of the FEMA," it said.
The Indian Biogas Association (IBA) has pitched for increasing the share of compressed biogas in total gas mix, saying it will help reduce the country's annual import bill by USD 20-25 billion by 2030. In a letter to Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently, IBA suggested that in the process of attaining a gas-based economy by 2030, the oil ministry has to keep a strict vigil on the overall sustainability. The industry body suggested gradually increasing the share of compressed biogas (CBG) in the overall gas mix to at least 10 per cent by 2025 and to 20 per cent in 2030. Furthermore, the CBG-CGD (city gas distribution) synchronization plan, which was launched in April 2021 and is due for review three years later (in 2024), should be extended for at least ten years to provide long-term certainty to players in the CBG ecosystem, it suggested. Increasing the share of CBG will ensure guaranteed offtake and a transparent ecosystem for CBG producers. It will also help fast-track setting up of CBG plants under the SATAT (Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation) scheme, as biogas plant owners will see the value proposition for their investments, it pointed out. For instance, it stated that the ethanol blending programme in petrol has gone up from 1.5 per cent in 2014 to 10 per cent now. By 2030, the annual import bill reductions of the government shall be USD 20-25 billion (at the current LNG spot price level), and Green House Gas (GHG) reductions shall be 150 million tonne, roughly 10 per cent reduction at 2005 GHG emissions level. IBA stated that the relaxed domestic 'gas pricing move' must go hand-in-hand with the environmental sustainability goals set by the renewable energy ministry -- 45 per cent reduction in emission intensity by 2030 and net-zero emission by 2070. Particularly for the CBG industry, wherein the offtake price of CBG is benchmarked to its closest substitute, CNG (Compressed Natural Gas), the move turns out to be a deterrent, it stated. For the CBG industry, it is like taking one step backward after a few forward moves like exemption of central excise duty on the onward sale of CBG blended with CNG; resumption of the MNRE subsidy programme; introduction of the BIS standards on design, construction, and operation of biogas plants , and others, IBA said. The CGD companies claim to have been heavily bled with regard to margins in the previous few months, owing to higher domestic gas prices. Amid the global uncertainty, the domestic gas price rose to USD 8 per MMBTU from USD 1.6 per MMBTU(Million British Thermal Units) last year. Now with the recent government gas pricing notification to trim and cap gas domestic prices, it becomes even more unfavourable to procure CBG, it stated. The procurement price gap of CBG and domestic gas shall widen further, it opined. In addition, under the CGD-CBG synchronization scheme formulated by gas utility major GAIL (India) Ltd, the pricing associated with compression charges and transport charges over and above the UBP (uniform base price) of CBG is even more concerning for the CGD players who are willing to procure CBG into its gas mix, it stated. The compression charges are going to increase further, as the PNGRB (Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board) has written to BIS (Bureau of Indian Standard) to increase methane from 90 to 95 per cent, needing an additional hike in the price of CBG, it stated. A roadmap can be set to introduce progressive blending targets going forward which shall be in harmony with CGD companies adopting sustainable growth paths and a gas-based economy set forth by the government, it suggested.
Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris visit to India last week is being described by commentators in both countries as a diplomatic disaster and failure at breaking the ice between the two countries to pave the way for resuming engagement. Several observers felt that the visiting leaders attempt to criticise New Delhi for weaponising terrorism as a diplomatic tool indicated that Islamabad was unwilling to give any firm guarantee of acting against terrorists conducting attacks on India from Pakistani soil. Since his comments came in the wake of a series of terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) leading to the death of Indian security personnel, it made it clear that Pakistan wanted to conduct business as usual without addressing the core Indian concern. ALSO READ: Bilawal Bhutto: All dressed up but no one to talk to in India But Bilawal Bhutto tried to play down the import of the attack by arguing that even Pakistan was a victim of terrorism and on this India and Pakistan were in the same boat. Hamid Bashani, a well-known Pakistan expert and political analyst, said, Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris visit to India was a diplomatic disaster. He pointed out that if the aim of the first Pakistani foreign ministers visit to India in 12 years was to pave the way for peace and normalisation of ties between the two neighbours, it has achieved the opposite. Bashani argued that nothing could be farther from the truth than attempting to equate India and Pakistan, both as victims of terrorism. India has been for years a victim of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. But the terrorist activities one can see in recent years in Pakistan is a result of Islamabads own policy of nurturing these forces and using them to achieve political and diplomatic goals, he said. Unlike India which rightly accuses Pakistan for conducting cross-border terrorism against it, Islamabad cannot accuse any outside force for the terrorist activities within the country as they are all home-grown, he added. Bilawal Bhutto came to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)s foreign ministerial meeting in Goa between May 4 and 5. He had maintained before his trip to India that there would be no bilateral issues on his agenda and the sole focus was to attend the SCO meeting since it was important for Pakistan to keep in touch with its extended neighbourhood. However, observers point out that the underlying reason for the Pakistani foreign ministers visit to Goa was to seek a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the SCO meeting with his Indian counterpart and host, S. Jaishankar. But though Jaishankar received him with the due courtesy shown to the other guests, there was no bilateral meeting between the two foreign ministers. This had become more or less certain after the terrorist attack in Poonch killed five Indian security personnel days before the Pakistani foreign ministers visit. Since a main subject of discussion at the SCO meet was security and safety for the member countries, Jaishankar also took the opportunity to strongly criticise Pakistan for encouraging terrorist activities against India from its territory. You know, victims of terrorism do not sit together with perpetrators of terrorism to discuss terrorism, Jaishankar said while explaining why there was no bilateral meeting with Bilawal Bhutto. The Indian foreign minister accused his Pakistani counterpart as a promoter, justifier and a spokesperson of a terror industry. He pointed out that The victims of terrorism defend themselves, counter acts of terrorism, they call it out, they delegitimise it, and that is exactly what is happening. Jaishankar added, Lets be very, very clear on this terrorism matter. I will say Pakistans credibility is depleting even faster than its forex reserves. Former Pakistan Prime Minister and the countrys main opposition leader Imran Khan said Pakistan was humiliated. Khan, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, told a rally of his supporters, Pakistans foreign minister should have calculated the cost-benefit ratio before embarking on this diplomatically-risky journey." Bilawal Bhutto has tried to sell his visit to India as a great success. But barring supporters of his Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and some India-baiters, most observers and commentators have agreed that it has made relations with India only worse. Former Indian foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal said, knowing that India would indirectly target Pakistan on the terrorism issue, Bilawal Bhutto tried to state his piece while in Goa. He had tried to argue that Pakistan was a victim of terrorism, it does not in any way support terrorism, and a distinction should be made between state and non-state actors  implying that the Pakistani state is not involved. In addition, he said that since Pakistan has complied with the Financial Action Tax Force (FATF) requirements of denying financial support for terrorism and money laundering, the issue of terrorism should not be weaponised in diplomacy by India. The former Indian foreign secretary felt Pakistan was digging a deeper hole for itself in its relations with India. He said any prospect of resumption of any serious contact between the two countries has now been buried. Sibal made it clear that India can do without a dialogue, but any new adventurism by Pakistan would be suicidal.
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said that 60 people were killed, 231 injured and 1,700 houses including religious places burnt in the ethnic violence that rocked the northeastern state for the past few days. Addressing a press conference, the chief minister said that the state cabinet resolved to provide ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the families of the deceased, Rs 2 lakh to those who suffered major injuries and Rs 25,000 to those with minor injuries. These are very very unfortunate incidents. I appeal to people to bring peace together at the earliest, Singh said. He said that 1,700 houses including temples and churches have been burnt down during the violence. The chief minister said that Rs 2 lakh will be paid to those whose houses were destroyed and the government will rebuild them. In the wake of the unfortunate incident that happened in Manipur, more than 20,000 people who were left stranded in relief camps have been moved to safety till today. Another 10,000 more stranded people will be transported to safety as soon as possible. Human lives are precious and destroying homes and properties are unacceptable, Singh said. The chief minister said 1041 guns were looted from security force personnel, out of which 214 have been recovered. He asked those who looted the guns to return those to the nearest police station, failing which a mass combing operation will be launched. The government has initiated many steps to bring back stranded people from different parts of the state such as Churachandpur, Ukhrul, Imphal West, Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts, he said. A cabinet panel has been formed to oversee the movement of the stranded people to their respective places, he said. The SPs have been directed to identify vulnerable areas and ensure round-the-clock provision of full-proof security and protection for land and property, in the absence of their owners. They have been directed to take immediate action as per law against persons attempting to loot or occupy such land and property, Singh said. The situation in Manipur is fast returning to normal, says Kuldeep Singh, Security Advisor to the chief minister. He told reporters that 218 FIRs were registered against miscreants involved in the rioting. Violent clashes broke out in the northeastern state after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals  Nagas and Kukis  constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan had a meeting with his Indian counterpart Ajit K Doval in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, the White House said, adding that the two leaders are scheduled to meet again in Australia later this month on the sidelines of the Quad Summit. This is the first meeting between Doval and Sullivan after they launched the ambitious India US ICET (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology) dialogue here in January. Sullivan is currently travelling to Saudi Arabia. "National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with Saudi Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and National Security Advisor of India Ajit Doval on May 7 in Saudi Arabia to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world," the White House said Sunday in a readout of the meeting. "Sullivan also held bilateral meetings with the Crown Prince, Sheikh Tahnoon, and Mr. Doval to discuss bilateral and regional matters. He looks forward to further consulting with Mr. Doval on the margins of the Quad Summit later this month in Australia," the White House said. With Crown Prince Mohammed, he reviewed significant progress in talks to further consolidate the now 15-month long truce in Yemen and welcomed ongoing UN-led efforts to bring the war to a close, as well as covering a range of other issues. "Mr. Sullivan thanked the Crown Prince for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan. The four delegates agreed to maintain regular consultations and follow up on the matters discussed throughout the day," the White House said.

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If KPMG LLPs near-30-year tenure auditing the collapsed Silicon Valley Bank seemed excessive, consider the entrenched relationships on display at First Republic Bank. The lender rescued by JPMorgan Chase & Co not only engaged KPMG just as long, but also retained directors with unusually protracted tenures. First Republics accounts point out that KPMG was auditor since 2010. The actual term is longer. The audit firm was signing off the books from 1989 to 2007, prior to First Republics brief ownership by Merrill Lynch (later bought by Bank of America Corp). Long-running relationships can threaten objectivity. In the US, this risk is managed by periodically changing the lead audit partner so auditor and audited don't get too close. Recall that KPMG likewise had a lengthy run with Signature Bank, which failed the same weekend as SVB. (A KPMG spokesperson said the firm continues to stand by its audits, which were conducted in accordance with the professional standards.) As for the First Republic board, Katherine August-deWilde, the vice chair, had been a director since 1988. She brought experience as an executive for 30 years since the banks creation in 1985. The chair of the audit committee, George G C Parker, had been a director since 2003. He has strong credentials as a financial expert given his notable academic career at Stanford University. Even if long tenures can be explained in isolation, they certainly become an issue when theyre pervasive. The lead outside director was on the board since 2013. Prior to the addition of some new members last year, five out of the eight non-executives had served more than a decade and two for over six years. Contrast that with JPMorgan: Only three out of the acquiring banks eleven non-executives have been directors for more than a decade. As in auditing, the longer a director sits on the board, the harder it may be to maintain an independent perspective. Moreover, banking is a dynamic industry which has undergone changes with the financial crisis and technological disruption. That arguably puts a premium on recent relevant experience. This is embarrassing context to the related-party transactions First Republic set out in its regulatory filings. These include the lender engaging a consultancy established by a brother-in-law of the banks founder and executive chairman Jim Herbert. In 2021, the bank paid the firm $2.3 million. A son of Herbert was also listed as an employee. The consultancy contract was negotiated at arms length by management, excluding Herbert, according to the banks proxy statement. Prior to the JPMorgan deal, First Republic told the Wall Street Journal the bank had a policy for transactions with family members and fully disclosed them. The rules may well have been followed. But these aspects of governance add up to an impression of cliquey-ness, and of a bank that could arguably have received oversight and counsel from sources with greater distance from the company. The broad risks at play  a homogenous depositor-base prone to flight and the vulnerability to rising rates of the fair value of a fixed-rate mortgage book  ought to have been acted on sooner. There are many possible culprits here, not least regulation. But the lessons learnt should go beyond banking supervision to banking governance. The US accounting watchdog, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, is already putting new emphasis on auditor independence in its inspections. First Republics demise surely gives US authorities fresh reason to consider forcing audit contracts to be put out to tender after a set period, instead of just switching a partner. The case for prescribing terms for individual board directors is harder to make. Young companies like First Republic are susceptible to outgrowing their founding boards and wont have gotten into the habit of overhauling the slate. But drawing a line in the sand on individual tenure can be counterproductive. The UK corporate governance code reckons a director whos served for nine years is no longer independent. While British companies can keep a director for longer if they explain why, its come to be perceived as a hard rule. In reality, there may be good reasons to keep a director on for more than, say, a decade, whether for continuitys sake or to retain specific expertise. What matters is the overall mix. As a general principle, boards should have a simple majority of directors who are independent and havent become part of the furniture. With banks, their systemic nature is an argument for the majority being larger. All the same, board composition should be a judgement call rather than a box tick. Problems are probably best nixed when shareholders come to reappoint directors at the annual meeting, with the proxy voting advisory services helping to raise red flags. Investors elected First Republics board (and ratified KPMGs role). They need to start exercising their power of discretion more often. Chris Hughes is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering deals. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Credit: Bloomberg
The Jalandhar Lok Sabha bypoll in Punjab coinciding with the Karnataka assembly election is crucial for the Aam Aadmi Party. The first year of Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann's rule has been chaotic in terms of governance and disturbing in terms of Punjab's larger political context. The fact that this election is taking place after the arrest of Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh is, however, one of its most significant aspects. The emergence of Amritpal, coupled with his separatist ideology and the arrest saga, has raised numerous concerns regarding AAPs stewardship of Punjab. At this juncture, the bypolls in Jalandhar is a litmus test for Mann, and a victory or defeat here will be read as a verdict on his administrative and leadership abilities. Law And Order Failures Under Mann, various law and order issues have taken the government by surprise. AAP appeared disoriented suggesting a lack of knowledge, experience, and purpose in dealing with the lawlessness. The absence of foresight and an eagerness to score brownie points thanks to a populist streak had led the newly elected government to withdraw security cover for many people, one of which led to the assassination of Sidhu Moose Wala. A troubled border with Pakistan and no paucity of internal saboteurs made such amateurishness a recipe for disaster. Even when the Mann administration was able to capture Amritpal Singh with the assistance of the central government, AAPs first instinct was to take political advantage of this arrest. The key leaders, including Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, attempted to portray this as an exceptional accomplishment. The real issue, however, is why the Mann government failed to assume control of the situation from day one. The 11 months since Moose Walas assassination on May 29 last year have dented Bhagwant Mann's credibility. This was also the period in which a non-entity like Amritpal emerged and took the state administration by surprise. Local Discontent Unlike Delhi, the AAP leadership in Punjab has been unable to establish a distinct model of governance. The primary issue is that the party has lacked a sustainable vision beyond Delhi. For instance, prior to the assembly election, Arvind Kejriwal promised that if the AAP comes to power, every woman over the age of 18 will receive Rs 1,000 in government aid. But in the past year, the party has only discussed the plan and not taken any action. According to reports, the government of Mann did not even include the program in its budget for the current fiscal year. Not surprisingly, the people of Punjab are becoming increasingly dissatisfied. It is also widely perceived that Mann is completely dependent on Kejriwal and the Delhi leadership, which prevents the party from developing local capacity. Despite becoming a national party, AAP has no Lok Sabha representatives and losing a Lok Sabha election in its backyard doesnt speak well for the AAP's national ambitions. The 2022 AAP victory in Punjab was led by Arvind Kejriwal and not Mann. When the CM of Punjab ran the campaign for his own Lok Sabha seat, the party lost in Sangrur. The byelection in Jalandhar will reveal whether Mann has the capacity to lead AAP from the front in Punjab. Importance Of Punjab If Mann weakens, others could rise up in the party to challenge him. The Punjab unit of AAP is not a stranger to internal divisions. Many prominent AAP members departed the state unit in earlier years. But after the victory in 2022, the party has remained united. In terms of its national ambitions, AAP has a realistic chance of winning only in Delhi and Punjab. Delhi has 7 Lok Sabha seats, and Punjab has 13. It is difficult for AAP to gain Lok Sabha seats in states such as Gujarat and Goa. Despite AAP's strength, the party has never won a single seat in Delhi. In Punjab, AAP won four seats in 2014, but only one seat in 2019. The Jalandhar constituency has been a Congress stronghold, as the party has always won elections there. If AAP fails to win this election, the party has no option but to consider other options in Punjab and Delhi, including alliances. But regardless of the Jalandhar outcome, this is an excellent opportunity for the AAP to gauge the sentiment of the people amid the escalating crisis. If Kejriwal and Mann learn from the electoral message, AAP will have enough time to reconfigure its strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Sayantan Ghosh is a columnist and Doctoral Research Scholar In Media & Politics. He tweets @sayantan_gh. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
On May 3, the city of Imphal, the capital of Manipur, was calm. So calm, that it was deemed safe for someone as important as the Vice President. In the next 24 hours, mobile internet was suspended, reports of deaths emerged, and Manipur was plunged into darkness. By the morning of May 5, the Army had been called in and by May 5 evening, all forms of internet had been snapped. You are likely to struggle if you try to understand what conspired in these 48 hours without trying to understand what has been conspiring in the state for the past few months. And if I may, please do not start with the idea that this is a 'communal clash'. It is socio-political, cultural, geographical and territorial, but not communal. Media publications that are calling it so have once again managed to implant their false, mainland binaries on complicated ground realities in the Northeast. Unrest In Churachandpur Since the beginning of this year, there has been unrest among the residents of Churachandpur, one of the hill districts of Manipur, who are mostly Kukis and follow the Christian faith. On February 20, the village of K. Songjang in Churachandpur was notified of eviction, blamed for being built along the Churachandpur-Khoupum Protected Forest stretch. The village was illegally built and according to the government most houses appeared to have come up after 2021. The houses were thus declared illegal and bulldozed. Further, on February 15, 2023, the Deputy Commissioner of Churachandpur District, Manipur, ordered a verification drive to identify illegal immigrants in several villages under the Churachandpur and Mualnuam sub-divisions in south Manipur. The DCs office further stated that the respective village chiefs/village authorities were informed to ensure the attendance of all residents to procure their biometrics. Now, the forest department issued a detailed response to the claims that it was being anti-tribal, which sounded extremely reasonable and factual. However, such a response did little to assuage the anger among tribals, who saw the eviction followed by the biometric identification as profiling and targeting their autonomy. Illegal Immigration Claims The biometric identification came in response to claims that following the military coup in Myanmar in February 2021, several people, especially Kukis, had migrated from the troubled regions to Manipur, especially the district of Churachandpur. The Chief Minister N Biren Singh, for example, has squarely blamed such immigrants for almost all of the state's evils: from deforestation to poppy cultivation. Now, such a claim is easy to make and easier to believe because this essentially absolves the state and its legal residents of all wrongdoings. But what happens when every person from one community, in this case, the Kukis, a community with no state of their own and a community with a long transnational history, is seen as a threat? It is against the threat of large-scale illegal immigration that the demands for an Assam-like NRC have found large-scale acceptance. Now, one must understand the NRC demand, the protection of indigenous cultures and traditions and of course, land, has backing among all northeast communities, not just in Manipur. The Meitei ST Demand In Manipur, however, the demand becomes even more significant because the Hills and the Imphal Valley have distinct cultures and traditions. While the Imphal valley is home to a majority Meitei population, most of whom follow Hindu traditions, the Hills are home to tribes that follow the Christian faith. The current situation, despite what some might believe, is not because of the NRC demand. The tipping point, chronologically, was the ST demand for the Meiteis, which the state's tribals are opposing tooth and nail. Again, this is not a new demand: as early as 2013, in response to demands made by the Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee for the inclusion, the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs wrote to the Manipur government requesting for specific recommendation along with the latest socio-economic survey and ethnographic report. In fact, the Manipur government had neglected to act on Meitei inclusion in the ST list, the Manipur high court had noted in its April 19 order. If indigenity is a claim to ST status, the Meiteis have every right to claim the ST status. Dhiren Sadokpam perhaps explains the issue best. Sadokpam, the Editor-in-Chief of The Frontier Manipur, argued that looking at the ST demand from an "oppressor vs oppressed" binary, which is the case in the mainland, made little sense in Manipur. No New Northeast Dawn On May 3, the All Tribal Students Union of Manipur organised a massive rally in Churachandpur, even as the CM was busy hosting the Vice President. The fallout of the rally was a wave of violence that has since engulfed large parts of the state, even though the Naga regions of Manipur have remained almost completely calm. The ensuing violence has hurt both the Meteis and the Kukis and even those with no stake in the violence. Yet, online, this too has become a war between ideologies, religion, tribal vs anti-tribal and of course, China vs India. Anyone with access to Google can read hundreds of stories and arrive at their own conclusion. Do not believe that the problems of the Northeast are in its past. Despite what some may claim, there is no "new dawn" in the Northeast. From Assam to Arunachal, questions on land ownership, identity, and protection of indigenous cultures and traditions remain as strong as ever. Manipur's story could end up being replicated in every Northeast state unless we begin, with extreme sincerity, to address these issues. Amit Kumar is executive editor of Eastmojo.com, a Northeast-based news portal. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
The intense geo-strategic rivalry between India and China to hold sway over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) archipelago of the Maldives has just seen New Delhi further consolidate its influence and bolster military ties during the recent three-day visit by defence minister Rajnath Singh there. Indeed, Maldives is not the only IOR nation where China has made steady and deep inroads. This has caused considerable concern in New Delhi, forcing it to redouble its efforts to counter the expanding Chinese footprints in the region. The significance of India dispatching Singh to hand over a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft assault ship to the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF)  announced during President Ibu Solihs visit to India in August 2022  and lay the foundation stone for the Ekatha harbour along with his Maldivian counterpart Mariya Didi cannot be overemphasised. For one, the first visit by an Indian defence minister in eleven years signals the remarkable upswing in New Delhi-Male defence ties, particularly in the maritime domain. External affairs minister S Jaishankar travelled to the Maldives in January this year, while defence secretary Giridhar Aramane followed for the bilateral defence cooperation dialogue last month. Naval chief Admiral Hari Kumar too visited the archipelago in April last year. Strengthening Defence Ties The growing salience of defence ties is evident in that Singhs visit took place despite both sides being well aware that it could be used by the Maldivian Opposition to fan anti-India sentiments, more so as the archipelago heads for simultaneous presidential and parliamentary polls later this year. Former Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen has been spearheading the anti-India campaign with its India Out slogan. While this campaign was banned by a decree by the Solih-led government last year, the Opposition is sure to raise the bogey of an Indian military base in the archipelago yet again. Under the China-leaning Yameens regime, New Delhi-Male ties had plumbed the depths as his government embraced Beijing with open arms. So much so that the Yameen government wanted India to take back the two choppers it had gifted to the Maldives. If Yameen returns to power, it will only spell trouble for India even as President Solih is set to seek a second term. Second, Singhs visit indicates New Delhi is no longer diffident about its growing strategic convergence with Male ever since the India-leaning Solih-led government took charge in 2018. The Solih governments avowed India First policy, coupled with New Delhis own infrastructure development efforts, have allowed it to gain the upper hand in the high-stakes game for influence in the archipelago. With its strategic location straddling vital sea lanes, New Delhi knows well the necessity of thwarting Beijings moves to encircle the Indian subcontinent by building inroads into IOR countries. Indeed, Singhs visit has also been used to convey the message to China in no uncertain terms that its hegemonic ambitions in the IOR are under close watch and there will be push-back. The joint communique issued upon the conclusion of Singhs visit emphasised the importance of maintaining peace, stability and security in the region as well as underscored the importance of respecting international law and rules-based international order and expressed their commitment to upholding these principles. What is noteworthy is that New Delhi managed to get Male on board for this swipe at China, even though the Solih government continues to maintain warm relations with Beijing. Message to Maritime Neighbours Thirdly, there is clear messaging for Indias other maritime neighbours too as New Delhi has once again emphasised its mantra of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) which it uses in its outreach to them, be it the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mauritius or Seychelles. Except for Mauritius, all have also joined Chinas ambitious Belt and Road Initiative about which India has grave suspicions and has refused to join it. India has kept close tabs on Chinas outreach in the IOR, where its warships are now deployed on a permanent basis. In the case of Sri Lanka, India has even strongly conveyed its unhappiness with Colombos decision to allow Chinese naval vessels to dock in its port. And yet, even as India works assiduously to engage closely with these key maritime neighbours in the security domain, the going has not always been easy. Indias attempts to help the Seychelles develop facilities for its Coast Guard on Assumption Island have been hampered amid domestic opposition stoked by fears that New Delhi was seeking to establish a military base there. Likewise, Indian attempts to have a presence on the remote Agalega island of Mauritius too have not fructified. In 2015, during Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit, the two sides had signed a pact under which India was to assist Mauritius upgrade Agalegas air and sea connectivity for the benefit of its inhabitants. But the matter has remained mired in controversy amidst fears that India is seeking to set up a military base on Agalega. Clearly, a challenging road remains ahead for India as it seeks to balance its strategic imperatives in the IOR and yet not be seen as an overbearing neighbour. India has done well to revive the Colombo Security Conclave, a trilateral maritime security grouping that initially had India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives as members but expanded to include Mauritius last year and has Seychelles and Bangladesh as observer nations. India has to play the Great Game in the IOR with finesse. Parul Chandra is a New Delhi-based senior journalist who writes on foreign affairs. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
In the underregulated, yet overregulated world of real estate, rules are often made in bureaucratic corridors with little thought given to actual monitoring and implementation. So, when the Graded Response Action Plan was created to tackle pollution in the Delhi NCR, one of the key components was to shut down the construction activities that throw up dust and add to the already critical levels of pollution. However, for years the construction industry has been saying that everything within its umbrella is not dust generating. Both statement and counterstatement have been based on approximations. Recently, affordable property developer Signature Global India Ltd announced a tie-up with Council of Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) to install air quality monitors at the construction sites. The data from these sensors would be able to provide hard data on which of the 15 construction activities contribute to air pollution and to what extent. Supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), this network of nine air quality monitors and one automatic weather station will evolve into a dashboard on pollution concentrations due to different construction activities. No-Construction Losses The trigger for this study is the fact that with increasing air pollution across the National Capital Region (NCR), at least 2.5 months per year are no-construction days. One such long shut-down results in at least another month and a half of wait time till the labour returns and all activities are conducive to restarting construction. According to the International Energy Agency, in 2021 buildings accounted for 30 percent of energy consumption and 27 percent of energy sector emissions (8 percent direct and 19 percent indirect, from electricity and heat used in buildings). In India, it is assumed that construction is a primary contributor to air pollution and hence has to be shut down. For the Agarwal brothers who are promoters of Signature Global, this data-gathering exercise will prove which of the 15 construction activities generate dust. Those that do not can then be allowed to continue, resulting in a less-than-total loss during these months. Under the Cleaner Air and Better Health (CABH) project, the effort is to use thorough research and on ground interventions to gather data that can push for preventive measures. Missing Lender NOCs This is not the only industry which struggles to meet policy aims because computable benchmark data or norms are not available. Take the stuck projects in the real estate industry. Many of the projects have been financed between 2010 and 2012 by formal finance offered to developers by lenders. However, the lenders have, in many cases, issued more money to developers than work that took place on the ground. Bankers were on the boards of the developers for those projects they lent to. However, when the Special Window for Affordable and Middle-Income Housing (SWAMIH) funds propose the last-in-first-out model, existing lenders do not give the no-objection certificate (NOC). As original lenders, was their role not to ensure that the on-ground progress of the project was to be monitored? And if they defaulted, do they still have the moral right to object to completion funds by taking their share out first, once the project is completed? Today SWAMIH has helped complete over 20,000 housing units. However, the number to be completed in the northern region is over 4.5 lakh units. The fund expresses its capability to take on more priority debt funding to stressed or brownfield projects. But a precondition of NOC from existing lenders stops them from taking on many projects. Should this process not have been defined when the fund was set up? Or at least drafted when the SWAMIH fund is showing its capability to complete projects efficiently? Should lenders not have their wings clipped or at least their returns pared for past misdemeanours? Currently, consumers are fighting it out in courts to prove that lenders have been responsible. In the subvention scheme, the Delhi High Court ruled that the money needs to be returned by the developers who took the funds but did not construct. Many consumers are currently battling the lenders to get the NOCs to get SWAMIH funding. Noida Authority Dues A similar objection has been raised by development authorities. Take the Noida and Greater Noida authorities, which the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has called out for violating every rule in the record book to collude with developers. They had taken a 10 per cent payment on land and allowed a moratorium during the building period to builders to construct and hand over the project. So far so good. Then came the collection period. By then the new land acquisition policy was implemented as also the National Green Tribunals order that no construction could take place within 10 km of the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. Over 70,000 home buyers were stuck after paying initial instalments for their houses. Builders discontinued payments and the authorities never moved a finger to find a resolution. Today when the projects are completed after up to 12 years, the authorities have stepped up to take their share, without which the consumers cannot get Occupation certificates. So, whose moral right is bigger? Who is to define that? Clearly, the courts whom the harassed consumers are now approaching. But in the rightness of things, this definition of what the authority can or cannot claim and the timelines for that should have been defined by the law. Where the law is silent, consumers are knocking at the gates of the courts for a favourable interpretation. Arbitrary FAR Increase When the Haryana government allowed additional Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to build a fourth floor on single plots, there was very little data to prove that any study had been done on how existing infrastructure could cope with the additional load. After crowded roads, insufficient power and water and overload of social infrastructure have led to protests from existing consumers, the authorities have temporarily halted the sanctions and asked for data. Should they not have first gathered data and got experts to analyse the impact of the fourth floor on the urban form? Whats done cannot be undone in the urban planning or unplanning process. The first objection came from consumers in plotted layouts in Corbusiers Chandigarh. That quickly spread to Panchkula and now all of Haryana is being reviewed. Policy making cannot be ad hoc and half-hearted if it has to have its impact. It needs a well-defined base and norms, which can be adhered to. The norms can be challenged later if an authority or a lender objects to them. But not defining the data norms is an even bigger blunder. And when authorities do not do it, the user groups search for answers in courts and developer groups do their own private studies to fill the gaps. E Jayashree Kurup is a writer-researcher in real estate and Director Real Estate & Cities, Wordmeister Editorial Services. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
The West Bengal government has banned the screening of the movie The Kerala Story in multiplexes and cinema halls across the state, as per a statement issued by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on May 8. The decision has been taken to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and to maintain peace in the state, Banerjee said, according to news agency ANI. The Kerala Story, which claims to be inspired by the alleged religious conversion of women in Kerala and their recruitment into the ISIS terrorist group, was released countrywide on May 5. The movie was taken down from the screens in Tamil Nadu on May 7, as a decision to withdraw it was taken by the state's theatre and multiplex owners association. The film has sparked protests as critics allege that it is factually incorrect. The movie's trailer, which suggested that around 32,000 women in the state were religiously converted and radicalised by terror operatives, was also condemned. Amid the flak, the filmmakers released an updated trailer last week, which replaced the reference to 32,000 women with compilation of the true stories of three young girls. The Centre-ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), however, has praised the movie, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that it is "trying to expose the consequences of terrorism in a society, especially in a state like Kerala, which is a beautiful land of hardworking, talented and intellectual people." Banerjee, while announcing the ban on The Kerala Story, accused BJP of funding an upcoming movie on Bengal on the lines" of The Kashmir Files. What is The Kashmir Files? It is to humiliate one section, she added. The Kashmir Files, which claimed to depict the plight of Kashmir Pandits and their exodus from the Kashmir Valley, was released last year. It was endorsed by BJP, with the state governments led by the party making it tax-free.
The Bombay High Court has directed the Maharashtra government to hand over two south Mumbai flats to their owner, a 93-year-old woman, putting an end to a property dispute that dragged on for eight decades. The flats are situated on the first floor of Ruby Mansion in south Mumbai and measure 500 sq ft and 600 sq ft. On March 28, 1942, the building was requisitioned under the then Defence of India Act, which allowed the British rulers of the time to take possession of private properties. A division bench of Justices RD Dhanuka and MM Sathaye in its order of May 4 noted that despite de-requisition orders passed in July 1946, the flats were never handed back to the owner Alice D'souza. The properties are presently occupied by the legal heirs of a former government official. D'souza in her petition had sought a direction to the Maharashtra government and the Collector of Mumbai to implement the July 1946 de-requisition orders and to hand over possession of the flats to her. The nonagenarian's plea was opposed by the present occupants of the flat who are the legal heirs of one DS Laud, who was inducted into the premises in the 1940s under the requisition order. Laud was a government officer in the civil services department at the time. D'souza in her petition claimed that the requisition order was withdrawn but still, the possession of the flat was not handed over to the rightful owner. Possession of other flats in the building was handed back to its owners, the plea said. The bench in its order noted that physical possession of the premises was never handed over to the owner (D'souza) and hence the de-requisition was not complete. "We have no hesitation to hold that in the present case, the premises have continued to be under requisition," HC said. The Bombay High Court directed the state government to hand over vacant and peaceful possession of the subject matter premises to the petitioner owner (D'souza) after taking possession from the present occupants within eight weeks. Read more: This 100-year-old is the worlds oldest practicing doctor. Meet Dr Howard Tucker
The internet is a breeding ground for scams, and with the increasing use of digital systems, scammers are coming up with new and creative ways to dupe unsuspecting individuals. However, what happens when someone decides to turn the tables on the scammer? That's exactly what entrepreneur Udita Pal did when she received a fake job offer through WhatsApp. Udita Pal is the co-founder of Salt, a fintech platform based in Bengaluru that facilitates international transactions. She recently took to Twitter to share her experience of being scammed and how she handled the situation. The scammer offered her a fake job and asked her to like and subscribe to a YouTube video to get paid. The message from the scammer read, "You don't have to pay any fee, you just have to spend a few minutes on your mobile phone, and you will get one hundred and fifty!" However, instead of falling for the scam, Pal decided to have a little fun. She responded to the scammer, saying, "okay doing," and then shared a screenshot of a different YouTube video with a hilarious title "Caught some idiot trying to scam." Her response left the internet in splits, and her post with screenshots of the chat has since gone viral. Im going to hell for this pic.twitter.com/84CK3v7HlM  Udita Pal (@i_Udita) May 5, 2023 Pal's approach to dealing with the scammer was both humorous and creative. Her witty response not only helped her avoid falling for the scam but also entertained thousands of people on social media. Her post has garnered over 1,300 likes and several reactions, with users flooding the comment section with laughing emojis and praises for her chat. One user even shared their own experience of being offered the same job opportunity and said, "Now, I'm planning to retire early." Another user jokingly suggested that Udita Pal should have offered the scammer Salt for their cross-border payments to their employees who are busy liking YouTube videos from abroad. How Bengaluru techie lost Rs 1.6 Lakh in scam hunting for a rental home In today's digital age, it's essential to be vigilant and cautious when it comes to online scams. However, Udita Pal's experience shows that humour and creativity can be powerful tools to combat scams and expose scammers.
Sudha Murty recently recalled her first meeting with husband Narayana Murthy. She was introduced to him by a friend and before meeting him Sudha Murty expected the Infosys co-founder to look like a "handsome, dashing film hero", but was surprised. The writer and philanthropist shared the incident on The Kapil Sharma Show. She was accompanied by actor Raveena Tandon and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga. In a promo released by Sony, host Kapil Sharma is seen asking Sudha Murty about her first meeting with Narayana Murthy. She replied, "There was a friend of mine called Prasanna, who would bring me a book every day with Narayana Murthys name written on the first page along with names of various locations. 'Narayana Murthy Istanbul' 'Narayana Murthy Peshawar' I thought is this Narayana Murthy fellow an international bus conductor?" "(When I was first about to meet him) I thought he would look like a films hero, dashing and handsome, but when he opened the door, I thought who is this person, this little kid? she added to roars of laughter from the audience. The couple has been married for 44 years now and even went on to share how their idea of "couple goals". In an earlier interview with Moneycontrol, Sudha Murty and Narayana Murthy spoke about giving each other space and respecting each other's passions. "We always cared for the family, children, grandchildren and took our work seriously," the author said. "I work much more than before and Murthy never objects to it because he respects my passion.... We respect, we give space to each other. We advise each other, but we do not interfere in each other," Sudha Murty said. The Infosys co-founder seconded the view, saying they have never checked each other's mails. "She has never looked into any of my mail," Narayana Murthy said. "I have never looked into any of her mail. We have followed it right from 1978." Read more: Sudha Murty on why she gave Rs 10,000 to Narayana Murthy to start Infosys
Every morning, Jacques-Andre Istel has breakfast in bed at the centre of the world. Istel is founder, mayor and postmaster general of Felicity, a stretch of California's Sonora Desert where for nearly four decades he has been building a museum of, y'know... the whole of human history. "This doesn't exist anywhere else on this planet," says the 94-year-old. What started in 1986 with two small houses has grown into an amphitheater of Istel's dreams; 2,600 acres (1,052 hectares) where the passage of time is marked by a sundial that uses the arm of God - as painted by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel - to cast its shadow. Nearby sits a bit of an old staircase that used to be part of the Eiffel Tower, its steps ascending into the void. The town's post office, which Istel has operated since December 1987, collects and distributes mail for a handful of residents and tourists. The $1 stipend checks sent by the US Treasury every year are uncashed and framed. Istel was elected mayor of Felicity shortly after it was founded in a three-vote landslide. The ballots were cast by Istel, his wife Felicia, after whom the town is named, and the invisible dragon that stars in Istel's storybook about the centre of the world. (A supervisor from Imperial County, in which Felicity sits, declared all three ballots valid, noting that a dragon's vote was recognised "for the first and only time in California history".) The 'centre' of the world Visitors to Felicity - dozens of tourists stop by every day between October and April - enter between symmetrical houses and are faced with a pyramid. This is - officially - the middle of, well, everything. Honestly. There's paperwork to prove it: Supervisors in Imperial County declared it so. Istel acknowledges with a twinkle in his eye that he's using a bit of creative license. "The centre of the world can be anywhere," he smiles. Beyond the pyramid, 723 red granite panels stretch out in thematic branches, exploring history, geography, politics, science, fashion and culture. Here, a panel tells the story of slavery in the US; there, one examines the life of Alexander the Great. One slab deals with the sacrificial rites of the Vikings, while another logs America's eating habits. Skydiver Istel was born in 1929 into a privileged family in the French capital. He left the country as the Nazis were preparing to march on Paris, and wound up in the United States. "I'm here thanks to the Germans," he says. "My family fought against them for three generations. My father left for England with (Charles) De Gaulle, my brother left the French Army for Canada and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force and eventually died, and my mother and the rest of us kids came to America." After a degree in economics, the young Istel went into the family banking business on Wall Street. But in a seemingly emblematic bit of topsy-turviness, he wound up as a professional skydiver, the kind of career swap disappointment that usually seems to happen the other way around. Seeking thrills outside of a job he did not really enjoy, he got his pilot's license, and did his first parachute jump. A trip to Europe introduced him to the then-unnamed activity of skydiving, an idea Istel brought back to the United States, where the company he cofounded helped popularise the idea of recreational skydiving, becoming known in some quarters as the "Father of American skydiving". Contracts with the military and a roaring civilian business made the firm a success, and provided the nest egg for what later became Felicity. In a study lined with memories from a very full lifetime - a diploma from Princeton, pre-war furniture and family photographs - Istel says his museum is not a legacy for himself, but a gift to all of humanity. Perhaps it will become a place of pilgrimage for generations to come; or maybe in seismically-active California it will be destroyed in a catastrophic earthquake, he muses. "The silver lining in that case is that archaeologists of the future will unearth a great find," he says. And if they never find it? Well, that's just how things work out sometimes. "Everything is forgotten," he says. Now well into his tenth decade, Istel shows no sign of slowing down (breakfast in bed is a decades-old custom for him, not a sign of old age). He swims daily and skips jauntily up the 49 steps that lead to the chapel in Felicity. There is, after all, still so much to do - almost 200 panels are yet to be carved. And who knows? There's still all that desert space to fill. The magnitude of the task might keep a lesser man awake at night. But not Istel. "I sleep well. But I do think about the next panels," he says. "At Felicity we don't do things by halves. We do them properly or we don't do them at all."
States along the eastern coast are on alert following the India Meteorological Departments (IMD) warning of heavy rains, gusty winds and rough sea over the next few days. A cyclonic circulation is lying over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining south Andaman Sea due to the recently developed Cyclone Mocha and can bring heavy rains to some coastal areas over the next few days, IMD said on May 8. Under its influence, a low-pressure area is likely to form over the region on May 8, it said. After intensifying into a cyclonic storm, while moving nearly northwards towards the central Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Andaman Sea, strong winds with a speed of 60 kilometers per hour can blow in the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. There is a possibility of heavy rains in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha until May 12. The sea conditions are predicted to be rough over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining south Andaman Sea on May 8 and very rough from May 9 on. IMD has advised fishermen, small ships, boats, and trawlers not to venture into the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of the Andaman Sea. Tourism and other shipping activities should be regulated from May 1012. Following the warning, states are on high alert across, with local disaster response teams prepared to handle any emergency situations that may arise. The meteorological department has issued a warning for cyclonic storm 'Mocha," covering 18 districts in Odisha. The regional weather bureau in Bhubaneswar has issued a yellow alert for nine districts in Odisha, cautioning of possible thunderstorms and lightning. The national weather service has issued a yellow warning for rain and thunderstorms in several Odisha districts, including Balasore, Bhadrak, Jajpur, Kendrapada, Cuttack, and Puri. The weather forecaster also had a warning for other parts of the country. IMD said maximum temperatures are likely to increase by 3-5C over most parts of the country over the five days and become near normal over Northwest India by May 8 and over the remaining parts of the country by May 10 but heat-wave conditions are unlikely over the next five days. Also read: Cyclone Mocha to make landfall in West Bengal, Odisha this week
The Biden administration announced Monday that it would seek to require airlines to compensate passengers for extensive flight delays and cancellations. The proposed rule would require airlines to provide cash payments rather than merely refunds for significant travel disruptions that were within the airlines control. No airline currently guarantees cash compensation for delays or cancellations in the United States, according to the Transportation Department. When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement. This rule would, for the first time in U.S. history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay. Buttigieg and President Joe Biden are scheduled to hold an event at the White House on Monday afternoon to promote the plan. The airline industry has come under intense scrutiny after a string of woes, including recent flight disruptions as travelers return to the skies after the height of the coronavirus pandemic. In December, a winter storm led to an operational meltdown at Southwest Airlines, stranding passengers during the holiday travel season. The proposed rule adds to Buttigiegs efforts to push the airline industry to improve customer experiences. During his tenure, the Transportation Department has imposed millions of dollars in fines on airlines for a number of violations, including for issues related to customer refunds, although some critics have pushed for him to take a harder line with the industry. In September, the department rolled out an online dashboard showing travelers what services they are entitled to if their flights are delayed or canceled. Buttigieg has credited the creation of the dashboard with pushing airlines to improve their policies toward consumers. c.2023 The New York Times Company
German business software maker SAP and German engineering company Siemens have joined U.S. tech giants in criticising draft EU laws on the use of data generated by smart gadgets and other consumer goods. EU countries and EU lawmakers are working on the details of the Data Act, proposed by the European Commission last year before it can be adopted as legislation. The draft law, covering EU consumer and corporate data, is part of a set of legislation aimed at curbing the power of U.S. tech giants and helping the EU to achieve its digital and green objectives. U.S. criticisms have included that the proposed law is too restrictive, while the German companies say a provision forcing companies to share data with third parties to provide aftermarket or other data-driven services could endanger trade secrets. "It risks undermining European competitiveness by mandating data sharing including core know-how and design data with not only the user, but also third parties," the companies wrote in a joint letter to Commission President President Ursula von der Leyen, EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager and EU industrial chief Thierry Breton. "Effectively, this could mean that EU companies will have to disclose data to third-country competitors, notably those not operating in Europe and against which the Data Act's safeguards would be ineffective," they said. Signatories to the letter dated May 4 and seen by Reuters included the chief executives of the two companies, Siemens Healthineers, German medical technology company Brainlab, German software company DATEV and lobbying group DIGITALEUROPE. The letter called for safeguards to allow companies to refuse requests to share data where trade secrets, cybersecurity, health and safety are at risk and that the scope of devices covered by the legislation should not be extended. Regarding a provision that allows customers to switch between different cloud providers, the companies said the legislation should preserve contractual freedom by allowing customers and providers to agree on contracts that work best for each business case.
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As Permian Basin crude oil production continues to climb  and with it the natural gas associated with that crude  moving the resource to end-users becomes increasingly challenging.

To handle the growth in output will require all hands-on-deck  from the largest national carriers to smaller privately-held carriers. All are making moves to accommodate more production.

Brazos Midstream, one of the largest privately held midstream companies operating in the Permian, is in the midst of expanding its operations.

Founded in 2014, the company began its operations in the southern Delaware Basin, which at the time was lagging the Midland Basin in terms of activity and infrastructure, according to William Butler, chief financial officer and a founding partner of the company.

We were in an outstanding position to start operations, Butler told the Reporter-Telegram in a telephone interview. Growth was bolstered by acquisitions, including from Jetta Operating, Callon Petroleum and Diamondback Energys Rattler Midstream as well as greenfield construction. Today, he said, Brazos gathers almost 500 million cubic feet and has 865 miles of natural gas, NGL and crude gathering pipelines.

With 500,000 acres dedicated to Brazos by 28 customers that include Diamondback, Continental Resources, ExxonMobil, Callon Petroleum, Permian Resources and ConocoPhillips, expansion continues.

The main system, the high-pressure backbone, is substantially built out, he said. Now were focused on building back to the wellhead, expanding field compression as needed, the little things that differentiate us.

Today the company is planning to replicate that success in the Midland Basin  with some adjustments for the basins legacy production and contracts. Under construction is the Sundance processing plant, a 200,000 Mcfd facility in Martin County.

Were building the backbone of the new system over the next 12 months and were entering into long-term contracts with customers. We plan to repeat our success in the Midland Basin, Butler said.

Being one of the largest privately held midstream companies in the Permian has its disadvantages and advantages, Stephen Luskey, Brazos Midstream chief commercial officer, and another founding partner, told the Reporter-Telegram.

The advantage is our workforce is not in the multi-thousands, he said. We are 105 strong and growing. That gives us ability in that we can move quickly and we can move expeditiously to provide solutions.

Another advantage, Luskey said, is that it is not integrated downstream, which means it can decouple its natural gas, crude or natural gas liquids from certain gatherers and processors as needed. That leads to better deals and more flexibility, he explained.

Brad Iles, chief executive officer and another founding partner said being privately held gives Brazos the freedom to make decisions that might seem unconventional.

Publicly held companies tend to focus on each quarters financial performance, Iles explained.

Being private and smaller, we can make economic decisions that are in our best interest and in the customers best interest, not in the interest of quarterly reports, he said. That focus can drive us to make different decisions in the field.

Brazos job, Iles said, is to provide solutions and create value for its customers. The company can bring solutions to customers who have not had capacity created for them by other companies, he said.

Changes to the regulatory environment will affect the sector, but Iles sees it as a welcome change.

To me, its a welcome change. It will put regulations in place to encourage and foster repair and modifications to older systems that were built when standards were not as stringent, he said.

He added that, because Brazos has focused on building out the latest generation of infrastructure designed to eliminate flaring and increase pipeline runs, new regulations will validate what the company is already doing.
The Midland Fire Department responded to a structure fire Monday morning in north Midland, according to a city spokesperson.

The City of Midland reported that at about 3:30 a.m. crews with the Midland Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 6400 block of Wewoka Place.

"Only non-life threatening injuries due to glass while evacuating the home were reported," the city reported. "The cause of the fire is under investigation."

The American Red Cross is assisting two displaced residents.
Thomas Warnack/AP

BERLIN (AP)  Heavy rains in southwestern Germany have flooded roads and basements, forced train routes to close temporarily and left some residents trapped in their homes.

In Zollernalbkreis county in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, hundreds of firefighters were on duty late Sunday after thunderstorms led to creeks bursting their banks and flooding streets, German news agency dpa reported Monday.
A person takes a picture as investors and guests arrive for the Berkshire Hathaway Inc annual shareholders' meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, U.S. May 6, 2023. REUTERS/Rachel Mummey
Fanohge Coalition to hold forum discussing security threats in the region and the importance of pushing for peace
Staff Reporter

Richelle obtained a bachelor of arts degree in mass communications from the Far Eastern University in Manila, the Philippines. She was a junior reporter for Marianas Variety from 2009 to 2010, and from 2014 to 2015. In the Maldives, she worked as a news reporter and marketing executive. In her free time, shes a painter, pianist, and mom baker.
FILE PHOTO: A poster depicting the former government advisor and political analyst Hisham al-Hashemi, who was killed by gunmen is seen at the Tahrir Square in Baghdad, Iraq July 8, 2020. REUTERS/Thaier al-Sudani
Journal-Courier

VIRGINIA  The Cass County Board is scheduled to meet in regular session at 7 p.m. today at 100 E. Springfield St.

Among the items on the agenda are:
DBenitostock/Getty Images

May is graduation season, with high school and college seniors taking that first step toward the next stages of their lives.

Lincoln Land Community College will lead the way with a ceremony at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Bank of Springfield Center at 1 Convention Center Plaza in Springfield. The graduation is for graduates of LLCC's Springfield campus and its satellite campuses.
A weapons ban Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed into law in January is back in force after a federal appeals court blocked a temporary injunction that a lower court judge in East St. Louis issued April 28.

In a one-page order, Judge Frank H. Easterbrook of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago granted a motion from Attorney General Kwame Raoul to stay the injunction pending an appeal of the lower courts order.

The decision means that the Protect Illinois Communities Act remains in effect throughout Illinois, Raoul said. We continue to be committed to defending the laws constitutionality in court.

Lawmakers passed the ban during a special lame duck session in January, making Illinois the ninth state to enact such a law. It came in response to a mass shooting last year at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park that left seven people dead and dozens more injured or traumatized.

The law bans the possession, sale and manufacture of more than 190 types of firearms defined as assault weapons, along with large-capacity magazines and certain kinds of grips and attachments. People who already own those weapons are allowed to keep them, but they must register them with Illinois State Police by Jan. 1. The law also limits to whom those gun owners can sell their weapons.

Passage of the law sparked immediate lawsuits in both state and federal courts. Two different state court judges issued injunctions blocking enforcement of the law, but the Illinois Supreme Court put a hold on those orders and will hear an appeal of those decisions later this year.

The law was also challenged in the Northern District of Illinois, where cases were already proceeding challenging local assault weapons bans in Chicago, Cook County, Naperville and Highland Park. Judges in two of those cases rejected constitutional challenges to the law, and those decisions are also on appeal at the Seventh Circuit.

The Seventh Circuit has previously ruled on the local laws in Cook County and Highland Park, both times finding the weapons bans constitutional. In his order, Easterbrook gave the plaintiffs in the Southern District cases until Tuesday to file a response to his stay and said any response should discuss how those two decisions relate to the current lawsuit.

Last weeks ruling from the Southern District involved four separate lawsuits that were consolidated because they all centered on the same question.

In that ruling, Judge Stephen P. McGlynn said that a temporary restraining order was justified because there was ample evidence to suggest the state law violates the Second Amendment right to bear arms as well as the 14th Amendment guarantee of equal protection in state laws  the opposite conclusion that judges in the Northern District reached.

In a statement, the Gun Violence Prevention PAC, one of the main advocates for the law, praised the Seventh Circuits decision to keep the law in place during the appeal.

As our country continues to witness a slew of mass shootings, it is critical that common sense gun safety measures remain on the books to keep our communities and children safe, the organization said in a statement. Although this fight to secure the existing assault weapons ban in our state remains far from over, this weeks decision is a necessary one that will save lives and take Illinois one step closer to making public safety a reality for all.
Two Illinois College alumni have joined their alma mater's board of trustees.

Joseph Calmese of St. Louis and Joanna Marker of Charlotte, North Carolina, "bring a wealth of skills and abilities to our board in addition to a passion for serving their alma mater," Illinois College Board of Trustees Chairman Steven R. Mills said.

"I look forward to working with them to advance the mission and vision of the college."

Calmese is a 2007 IC graduate and chief executive officer of Fort Myers, Florida-based Addman Engineering. He joined the Illinois College Alumni Association board of directors in 2021, and he and his wife, Marilu Torres, are members of the Illinois College Society.

"I am dedicated to championing [a] leadership principle and fostering an environment where students can develop their leadership potential. I am excited for the opportunity to serve the students of IC  past, present and future  to advance the mission of Illinois College and help shape the next generation of compassionate, innovative and effective leaders," Calmese said.

Marker is a 2002 Illinois College graduate and is lead principal for distribution performance at Northwestern Mutual. She and her husband, Eric Dettmann, are members of the Illinois College Society.

"I am honored and thrilled to join this esteemed group of trustees as a new board member," Marker said. "The work that the board does has generational impacts; the opportunity to support the ongoing sustainability of Illinois College in this way brings me great joy."
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EDMONTON, Alberta (AP)  Fire crews battled wildfires threatening communities in western Canada on Sunday as cooler temperatures and a bit of rain brought some relief, but officials warned the reprieve came only in some areas.

Officials in Alberta said there were 108 active fires in the province and the number of evacuees grew to about 29,000, up from approximately 24,000 Saturday, when a provincewide state of emergency was declared.

Two out-of-control wildfires in neighboring British Columbia also caused some people to leave their homes, and officials warned that they expected high winds to cause the blazes to grow bigger in the next few days.

Provinicial officials in Alberta said the weather forecast was favorable for the next few days, with small amounts of rain and overcast conditions. But they cautioned that hot and dry conditions were predicted to return within a few days.

People have called this season certainly unprecedented in recent memory because we have so many fires so spread out, Christie Tucker with Alberta Wildfire said at a briefing. Its been an unusual year.

Colin Blair, executive director of the Alberta Emergency Management Agency, said accurate damage reports were not yet available because conditions made it difficult to assess the situation. There were of buildings destroyed in the town of Fox Lake, including 20 homes, a police station and a store.

In northeastern British Columbia, officials urged residents to evacuate the areas around two out-of-control wildfires near the Alberta border, saying there were reports of some people staying behind.

This is impeding the response and putting their lives and the lives of firefighters at risk," said Leonard Hiebert, chairman of the Peace River Regional District.

A third fire in British Columbia was burning out of control 700 kilometers (430 miles) to the south, in the Teare Creek region, and some residents near the village of McBride were evacuated.
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When you grow up with an Italian mother, you are familiar with the phrase, lets go in the kitchen and have coffee.

Most people, regardless of their ethnicity or heritage, are used to the idea of sitting down and having coffee. Its just that with Italians, this was the female equivalent of war room discussions at the White House.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time with the Italian side of my family. My mother, Lucy, would often head down to what we called 49th Street, her old West Philadelphia neighborhood, and I tagged along.

The memories of those visits are still vivid a half century later. There would be hugs, exclamations of how big Id gotten, and then everyone would go into the kitchen and partake of cookies, coffee and gossip.

Not to play into old stereotypes, but women really are more talkative and interactive. Thats normally a good thing. But a group of women who now famously sit around some corporate minions vision of a table and engage in public conversations have pretty much ruined my memories.

Those women, the so-called ladies of The View, have turned conversation into a weapon, and their tongues into knives.

When Cousin Helen or Cousin Mary would chat about someone who screwed up, they were equal opportunity critics. Even if they liked you, they were honest about the gravity of your sins.

This show, which started out as the brainchild of the late great Barbara Walters, was designed as a showcase for opinionated women. It was a brilliant idea, because the most amusing and entertaining discussions are always between women with strong views and stronger voices.

Barbara and her producers knew that this would make for great television, if not an esoteric dive into profound philosophical musings.

And for a while, they were right. They had a definite liberal bent, and they werent particularly fond of the conservatives they had like Elizabeth Hasselback, but they didnt exactly use the tar and feathers, even during the Bush years.

But any woman who was tapped to fill the conservative slot on the show soon found that she was going to be attacked. Candace Cameron Bure, Jedediah Bila and most notoriously Meghan McCain were treated like unworthy, offensive and unintelligent tools of the patriarchy before they either got the boot or chose to leave.

It became increasingly evident that the only women allowed to crow at that table were the ones who swallowed the Orwellian group-think pill with their morning coffee.

Liberals good, conservatives evil. Now a word from our sponsors.

I have never watched an entire episode of The View. But like most Americans, I have seen snippets on YouTube and elsewhere, especially when one of the co-hosts says something particularly dumb.

I say particularly, because so much of the banter is mediocre, but even the gals around that table surpass themselves on occasion.

A recent example is when they tried to distinguish between the twin firings of Don Lemon and Tucker Carlson, coming on the same day. They cackled in glee at the termination of Tucker because he was a fascist, but they made excuses for the fellow who had basically called every one of them past their prime.

A few days before that, Jane Fonda, whose Botox has seeped into her brain, suggested that all pro-life Republican politicians should be murdered. She wasnt joking, despite her attempt to walk back the comments when she saw the reaction from people online and in Congress.

These are not normal conversations from normal women. These are not conversations worth having, or listening to anywhere outside of an institution for the mentally insane.

These women are worthless, and their conversations should be ridiculed, and then ignored.

Ive done the ridiculing. Now, on to ignoring them.
Its easy to understand why reforming Social Security and other programs has been nearly impossible. Many may not realize it, but its because of the payroll tax. Now, state governments are trying to use payroll taxes to fund family and medical leave entitlements  and workers will again come out on the losing end of this bargain.

When taxpayers see the dollars they put into a government program twice a month on their pay stubs, they want to ensure that money is there when they retire. Unfortunately, there never seems to be enough revenue to cover empty government promises, causing the inevitable worry that taxpayers will never see their contributions returned.

Still, hardworking Americans view their investment in the payroll tax throughout their entire working career as a safety net, one that affords them unfettered access to reap the benefits of the entitlement programs.

When we hit a debt limit crisis, a noble few attempt to rein in programs like Social Security to balance the budget and reduce skyrocketing debt. They propose changes and the public revolts.

Politics ensue. Rinse and repeat.

State governments arent immune to these problems. Thirteen stereotypically tax-and-spend states and the District of Columbia have enacted medical and family leave programs, and these massive entitlement expansions are entering the heartland, all funded by payroll taxes.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers is one of the latest to propose this new public benefit. Despite strong opposition from Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, paid family leave garnered support from even the major Republican candidates for governor in last years primary. So, wed be foolish to think this kind of proposal is dead on arrival with a Republican legislature looking to find a budget compromise with the governor.

Evers proposal gives one-time startup costs for his new explosion of government from the states massive $7 billion surplus. But going forward, Wisconsin workers would bear the burden through payroll taxes. Of course, the details of the impending payroll tax werent disclosed by the governor, theyd be discussed only after the program is set up, and tax increases are inevitable.

Many taxpayers dont know this  because it isnt explicitly written on their paycheck  but employers often match the funds paid into entitlement programs via state payroll tax. In D.C.s paid-leave program, the employer, on paper, pays the entire family and medical leave program cost. But because of the workforces supply and demand, these employer matches dont come out of employers pockets. A Congressional Budget Office paper from 2021 suggests employees bear nearly 60 percent of the employers payroll tax. It all points to increased lost income from taxpayers than they realize.

State legislators need to take note of the eternal Social Security debate in the nations capital. Once a program is paid by payroll taxes and the promise is out there, its nearly impossible to reform and rein in, and the public will want to see government live up to the promises they believe they paid.




In a statement, the government agency said that, since the beginning of the migration crisis at the southern border, it engaged in a high-level dialogue with Chilean authorities and established a permanent working group.





Such dialogue gave priority to the realization of humanitarian flights to allow the voluntary return of Venezuelan nationals stranded at the border area to their home country, such as the one that took place in recent hours, with 115 people on board.





Likewise, it indicated that the Venezuelan consular authority is conducting the registration of its compatriots located in Tacna who wish to return voluntarily to Venezuela, in light of their documentary situation.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to work in a spirit of cooperation and goodwill with the Governments of Chile and Venezuela, as well as with other countries in the region, in order to find joint solutions to the problem of irregular migration, including the organization of repatriation flights for Venezuelan nationals wishing to voluntarily return to their home country," the statement read.

The Foreign Affairs sector stated that this first humanitarian flight constitutes an important step in the efforts made to solve this problem, and a course of action that will be further coordinated with the countries involved, as evidenced at the meeting with deputy ministers of Bolivia, Chile , Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela held on May 3.

The Ministry also reported that, in response to the coordination with regional authorities, as well as offices of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Tacna, the latter have implemented an orientation center for migrants in said city, so as to establish a regular, orderly, and safe migration.





"Likewise, these offices in Tacna have been implementing a plan, in coordination with regional authorities, so that irregular migrants occupying public spaces in said city are transferred to the shelters that have been set up to receive them," the statement added.







This is a developing story.





(END) MRCA/JCR/RMN}B

The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday affirmed that it will continue working with the governments of Chile and Venezuela, as well as with other countries in the region, in order to find joint solutions to the problem of irregular migration, such as humanitarian repatriation flights.Published: 5/7/2023
Thousands march in silence in Serbia after mass shootings View Photo

BELGRADE, Serbia (AP)  Thousands marched in silence on Monday in Serbia in a major outpouring of grief and anger against the populist government and how it reacted after two mass shootings last week that left 17 people dead and 21 wounded, many of them children.

The gatherings in Belgrade and the northern city of Novi Sad were dubbed Serbia against violence. They were called by opposition parties, which demanded the resignations of government ministers and the withdrawal licenses to the state controlled mainstream media that promote violence and often host convicted war criminals and crime figures on their programs.

After the protest officially ended, some of the protesters chanted slogans against Serbias increasingly autocratic president, Aleksandar Vucic, demanding that he step down, as they passed by government headquarters in Belgrade.

The president later dismissed the protest as shameful during an interview on pro-government Happy television. He accused the opposition of abusing peoples grief for their political ends and inciting violence.

Its pure politics, said Vucic, also describing the organizers as vultures.

The shootings  on Wednesday in Belgrade at an elementary school, and on Thursday in a rural area south of the capital  left the nation stunned. They triggered calls to encourage tolerance and rid society of widespread hate speech and a gun culture stemming from the 1990s wars.

Education Minister Branko Ruzic submitted his resignation on Sunday and authorities launched a gun crackdown, but opposition said this was too little, too late.

There were no official estimates of crowds that streamed into central Belgrade streets on Monday evening, but observers described the gathering as the biggest in years against Vucic and his government. In Novi Sad, participants held a banner reading Everything has to stop and threw flowers into the Danube River to commemorate those killed in the shootings.

We have to learn anew how to speak to each other and how to create a healthy future  to nurture the beauty of living, of art, science and humanity, said Biljana Stojkovic, a leader of the leftist Zajedno, or Together, party. The worst among us have been in power for an entire decade, and they imposed the norms of aggression, intolerance, crime and lies.

One of the largest anti-government protest in recent years in Serbia also reflected how rattled the nation has been by the shootings.

The school shooting on Wednesday was the first in Serbias recent history. A 13-year-old boy took his fathers guns and opened fire at the school he attended in the heart of Belgrade, shooting at his peers and killing seven girls, one boy and a school guard.

A day later, a 20-year-old man used an automatic weapon in a shooting rampage in two villages in central Serbia, randomly killing eight people and wounding 14. Prosecutors said that he has confessed to the killings and said he wanted to spread fear among residents, state media have reported.

Earlier on Monday, police deployed in schools throughout Serbia in an effort to restore a shaken sense of security as children largely returned to classes. Teams of experts have been sent with the backing of U.N. childrens agency UNICEF, offering support and guidelines for children, their parents and teachers.

Thousands have lit candles and left messages, toys and flowers to commemorate the victims. On Monday, a police officer stood in silence at the entrance of Vladislav Ribnikar school, where students are set to gradually start returning on Wednesday.

Also Monday, people who own unlicensed guns can start handing them over at police stations without punishment. Other new gun-control measures include a moratorium on new licenses, strict control of existing ones and the tightening of rules for gun possession, which officials say will leave many current gun owners without weapons.

Independent international surveys have put Serbia among the top countries in Europe for gun ownership per capita. Gun control has been loose since the 1990s Yugoslav wars, when many brought back weapons from battlefields.

Vucic has said there are around 400,000 registered gun owners in Serbia, but many more own guns illegally.

Serbia has never faced up to its role in the conflict against other ethnic groups of the former Yugoslavia. Right-wing and nationalist sentiments have been on the rise and war criminals are regarded as heroes rather than villains, with many retaining public roles after serving their sentences.

On Monday, a group of activists painted a red heart over a mural honoring wartime Bosnian Serb army commander Ratko Mladic, who is serving life in prison for genocide in Bosnia on a U.N. court conviction. The mural, located just a few blocks from the school where the shooting took place, surfaced months ago and previous attempts to remove it were thwarted by masked thugs.

___

Dusan Stojanovic contributed to this report.

___

A previous version of this story was corrected to show that the education minister submitted his resignation on Sunday, not Wednesday.

By JOVANA GEC

Associated Press
US to provide Ukraine $1.2 billion in long-term security aid View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. will provide $1.2 billion more in long-term military aid to Ukraine to further bolster its air defenses as Russia continues to pound Ukraine with drones, rockets and surface-to-air missiles, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

The aid package will be provided under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Unlike U.S. equipment, weapons and ammunition sent from Pentagon stocks that can be delivered to Ukraine quickly, this money is to be spent over the coming months or even years to ensure Ukraines future security needs.

The Pentagon said it will fund air-defense munitions and drones for air defense, and provide equipment to help modify Western air-defense launchers, missiles and radars so they can be used with Ukraines systems. It will also buy artillery rounds, howitzer ammunition, satellite imagery assistance and funding for ongoing maintenance and spare parts for a variety of systems. U.S. officials said the weapons include HAWK air-defense systems. They spoke on condition of anonymity because that has not yet been formally announced.

The Pentagon said the aid will build the capacity of Ukraines military to defend its territory and deter Russian aggression over the long term.

Including this package, the U.S. has provided Ukraine nearly $37 billion in military aid since Russia invaded in February 2022.

The latest aid comes as Ukraine prepares to launch a spring offensive against Russian forces, with air defense a persistent issue.

Ukraines air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, officials said Monday. Wreckage from a drone struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has routinely turned to Irans Shahed drones to bolster its firepower. And U.S. aid packages  including more immediate military weapons and support  have included systems to shoot down and otherwise defeat the drones.

___ Associated Press writer Tara Copp contributed to this report.

By LOLITA C. BALDOR and MATTHEW LEE

Associated Press
EU cancels Tel Aviv event in protest over radical minister View Photo

JERUSALEM (AP)  The European Union said Monday that it canceled a diplomatic reception to prevent a radical ultranationalist Israeli minister from attending.

The act of protest by the EUs delegation to Israel against a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, the most religious and ultranationalist in the countrys history, could cause a diplomatic spat between Israel and the EU.

Relations already have been strained over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power faction, serves as the national security minister and was assigned to represent the Israeli government at the EUs Europe Day event on Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said Sunday in a Kan radio interview that Ben-Gvir had been assigned by the government secretary to attend not as a representative of the Jewish Power party  but to represent the government of Israel.

The EU said that it decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for. The remainder of the public event would take place as scheduled.

Ben-Gvir is a former far-right activist and hard-line West Bank settler who has been convicted of incitement and support for a Jewish terror group. As the governments representative at the Europe Day event, Ben-Gvir would have addressed attendees.

Its a shame that the EU, which pretends to represent democratic values and multiculturalism, behaves with undiplomatic gagging, Ben-Gvir said.

Netanyahu returned to office in December at the head of a coalition that includes ultra-Orthodox parties and religious ultranationalists, including Ben-Gvirs small Jewish Power faction. The government has put expansion of West Bank settlements as a top priority. The EU, along with most of the international community, considers Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem illegal under international law and obstacles to peace with the Palestinians.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for a future independent state.
Pakistan, Afghan Taliban agree to boost trade, lower tension View Photo

ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistans Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group. There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in the group  which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

At the end of the Pakistan-hosted mini-summit of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad on Monday issued a joint statement. It said the three sides stressed the need to prevent any individual, group or party to use their territories to harm and threaten regional security and interests or conduct terrorist actions and activities. These include the Pakistani Taliban and the ethnic Uighur militant group, called the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

It said all three sides underscored the need to refrain from intervening in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and to promote Afghan peace, stability and reconstruction. The diplomats from the three nations agreed to further deepen and expand their cooperation in the security, development and political domains based on the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed consultation and mutual benefit.

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistans powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity. The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement, it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistans military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism, the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqis visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistans Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

By MUNIR AHMED

Associated Press
Florida may study use of radioactive waste in building roads

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  Florida may study whether a radioactive waste byproduct of fertilizer production can be used to help build roads under a bill passed by the Legislature.

The proposal, which awaits a signature from Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, would task the state with conducting a study about the use of phosphogypsum in road construction aggregate materials.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires that phosphogypsum be placed in stacks that resemble enormous ponds. Florida has 24 such stacks, totaling about 1 billion tons of phosphogypsum, with 30 million new tons generated every year through the phosphate fertilizer mining industry.

The EPA in 2020 approved the use of phosphogypsum in government road construction projects but reversed its decision after Democratic President Joe Biden took office.

Environmental groups have warned about phosphogypsum spilling into waterways and elsewhere during storms. A leak in March 2021 at a stack called Piney Point resulted in the release of an estimated 215 million gallons (814 million liters) of polluted water into Tampa Bay and caused massive fish kills.

The EPA regulates phosphogypsum because the material contains radium-226, a naturally occurring radioactive substance that produces radon gas, which is a hazardous air pollutant.
Disney parks at the forefront after Igers return View Photo

Its been six months since Bob Iger canceled his retirement and stepped back into the top role at Disney to right a number of perceived wrongs under his handpicked successor, with one hovering right near the top: reconnecting with the Disney theme park die-hards and restoring their faith in the brand.

Among his first acts as returning chief executive, Iger walked the Disneyland and California Adventure parks in Anaheim, California with Josh DAmaro, chairman of Disney parks, experiences, and products. And there was Iger at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort, talking to guests and cast members alike and taking a personal interest in new projects that are underway.

When Iger rejoined Disney as CEO in November, taking over control of the company from Bob Chapek, it was met with great fanfare by park loyalists who openly criticized Chapek on social media throughout his tenure.

The perception among many fans is that Chapek had a business first, customer last mentality. Rising prices and reduced services rankled Disney devotees who felt that the magic is gone.

Shortly after Igers return, changes were rolling out at U.S. parks. Disney would no longer charge for overnight self-parking at its Walt Disney World resorts. Walt Disney World annual passholders would be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without a reservation (with some exceptions). There would also be free digital downloads of photos on rides for guests using Disneys Genie+ planning and ride reservation service.

Character meet-and-greets have been ramped up again and new Disney characters being added. The annual pass at Disney World is back.

I think that in our zeal to grow profits, we may have been a little bit too aggressive about some of our (theme park) pricing. And I think there is a way to continue to grow that business, but be smarter about how we price so that we maintain that brand value of accessibility, Iger said during the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom conference in March.

Keeping all of Disneys faithful happy at its parks will always be a big ask, said Brandon Nispel, a senior equity analyst at KeyBanc.

Even lowering ticket prices is not a universal win. Some will cheer cheaper entry, while others will complain about the big crowds that less expensive tickets bring with them.

Theyre going to always frustrate half the people, half the time, Nispel said.

And then theres Disneys ongoing battle with the governor of Florida.

Igers has attempted to protect Disney Worlds theme park district from a takeover by Governor Ron DeSantis. Disney sued DeSantis in late April, alleging the governor waged a targeted campaign of government retaliation after the company opposed a law critics call  Dont Say Gay. Disneys legal filing is the latest salvo in a more than year-old feud between the company and DeSantis.

Keeping politics at bay and upping the energy at parks is crucial to Disney at a time when its profit and revenue growth have slowed and profit margins at parks softened. By early November 2022, shortly before Chapek departed, Disneys stock had dropped about 50% from a year earlier.

Solid growth at Disney parks helped to offset tepid video streaming and movies performances during the companys first quarter. Sales at its parks, experiences and products segment grew 21% in the period, while revenue for the segment that includes Disneys movie business only edged up 1%.

Parks are the most critical business Disney has from my perspective, Nispel said.

The amount of money the parks generate keeps all eyes on the operations, especially Igers.

Were listening to guest feedback and were continuously working to improve the quality and value of their experience, Iger said during Disneys most recent earnings call.

And those improvements will continue into next year, with Disney announcing on Monday that some big updates are in store for Walt Disney World, including the return of Disney dining plans and offering some days that annual passholders and Disney cast members can visit Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation.

Disney dining plans will return as an option for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels who buy a vacation package with arrivals starting in early January. Guests will be able to choose from the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan.

Theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets, also beginning on Jan. 9, 2024. Date-based tickets are the standard ticket option for guests. Non-dated tickets and other admission types may still require park reservations.

Disney said it will also continue to offer early theme park entry to Disney resort guests for visits through next year and is working on ways for park goers to be able to plan with its Genie+ service and individual Lightning Lane selections before the day of their park visit.

Watching with rising interest along with parkgoers are investors, who saw the companys shares tumble during Chapeks last year. Walt Disney Co. will post second quarter earnings results on Wednesday.

On Monday, shares of Disney, based in Burbank, California, rose nearly 3%

By MICHELLE CHAPMAN

AP Business Writer
NEW YORK (AP)  Hannah Gadsby's new Netflix special illustrates a different side of the comedian that fans may not expect  a happier one.

Its a lighter show, Gadsby tells The Associated Press ahead of Something Special airing on Tuesday. Its more positive. Its expressing a happiness I dont think I had done in earlier Netflix specials.

The comedian kicks it off with good news  I got married. I know! Its nice  and then promises viewers a change of pace from previous sets: This is going to be a feel-good show because I believe I owe you one.

Gadsby, who uses the pronoun they, is in many ways going back to the style of comedy they employed before exploding to fame with the special Nanette in 2018, which had deeply affecting stories of violence, homophobia, misogyny and shame.

Its much more difficult to do comedy around a positive theme. Nobody is really that pleased watching someone be happy, they said. Its a real risky show. Id say this is riskier than Nanette.

The new hourlong stand-up special recorded at the Sydney Opera house in Australia explores marriage, sudden fame, parenting styles, cultural differences and life with autism.

In every one of my shows, Im always talking about where I am a particular moment in my life, they say in the interview. I really want people to not know what I will do next, because therefore I am not under the pressure of delivering something.

Asked it they're a little like Adele albums, in that they preserve a moment in time, Gadsby laughs. Yeah, Im much better at being happier than she is. Thats a little joke.

It's still a typically Gadsby set, with personal observances and sudden quick-thrust political critiques, culminating in a climax at the end in which they draw together many of the jokes that have been talked about.

If there is a motif this time, it is rabbits. The critters are part of two tent-pole stories, one involving an ex-girlfriend and another their wife. Paper bunnies decorate the stage.

Gadsby calls it a love letter to their wife, Jenney Shamash, an American producer. Their relationship deepened during the pandemic, and Shamash now lives in Australia with Gadsby and their two dogs, Douglas and Jasper.

Part of what I like to do on stage is I want other people to love what I love. For someone on the spectrum, it can be really lonely, Gadsby says. Its only been in recent years that Ive learned how to make lasting connections through the diagnosis and confidence and things like that. So I thought that was worth sharing.

In one section, Gadsby admits they were ill-prepared for fame, illustrated by a story of giving a very non-diplomatic reaction to getting a birthday gift from Jodie Foster.

Of fame onstage, Gadsby says: Dont expect it, thats gross. But just on the off chance you find yourself famous, youd better be prepared. Because I wasnt and I made a dogs breakfast of it.

Gadsby is one of those people who doesn't believe suffering is needed to make good art and notes they don't need to generate any more since there's plenty to mine from their past.

If I need to suffer in order to be a world-class comic, I dont care much to be a world-class comic. That seems like too high a price, they say.

Something Special builds from Douglas, where Gadsby revealed their diagnosis of high-functioning autism. The new show gives viewers a glimpse of how Gadsby sometimes misunderstands social queues and intentions.

Asked in the interview, they say the diagnosis has been freeing, in a way. It means Gadsby doesn't worry about understanding everything, conserves more energy and offers a bit more control.

Understanding it has helped. It has given me the confidence to understand my framing of things, which I think has made writing easier, they say. Now I feel like I have a lot more control. Im not scrambling to be normal anymore, whatever that means.

Fans who adore Gadsby's revolutionary take on art history  a large portion of Nanette called out the inexcusable behavior of art's most towering figures like Pablo Picasso  will find more of that at an exhibition they organized at the Brooklyn Museum this summer.

The show, coming as 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the artist's death, is titled Its Pablo-matic: Picasso According to Hannah Gadsby, it promises a new look at the Cubist's legacy through a critical, contemporary and feminist lens and an audio tour by Gadsby.

I knew this year was just going to be an overload of people salivating over Picasso without really interrogating his problematic contribution to the idea of genius, Gadsby says. This is less about Picasso and more about how we talk about very, very fallible men who we refuse to see as that once theyre geniuses.

If there's something that connects both the Netflix special and the Brooklyn exhibit, it's the nature of fame. Both Gadsby and Picasso have had brushes with it but reacted so very differently.

I think what were really discovering, when fame and success meets a damaged soul, then they become this monster, they say. I just dont think you have to be a monster to be an artist or to be great.

___

Mark Kennedy is at http://twitter.com/KennedyTwits
A former member of a neo-Nazi group pleaded guilty Monday to fatally shooting his two Florida roommates in 2017, abruptly avoiding the start of a murder trial in which he had planned to use the insanity defense, according to court records.

Devon Arthurs, 24, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder and will serve a 45-year prison sentence. The plea deal with prosecutors means Arthur will not face a possible life sentence.

This defendant committed a cold and calculated crime and for that he will spend the majority of his life in prison," said State Attorney Suzy Lopez in a statement. The victims families are satisfied with this outcome which allows them to avoid a painful trial while knowing the defendant will have to dwell upon the pain he has caused for the next several decades behind bars.

Arthurs admitted killing the roommates, Andrew Oneschuk, 18, and 22-year-old Jeremy Himmelman, nearly 6 years ago at the Tampa apartment they shared. Arthurs told police after his arrest that all three had been part of a small, mostly online neo-Nazi group called the Atomwaffen Division and that he shot the pair with an assault-style rifle because they ridiculed his conversion to Islam.

Inside the apartment the men shared, authorities said they found guns, ammunition and bomb-making material, along with a framed picture of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh on a bedroom dresser. Atomwaffen is German for nuclear weapons.

A third roommate and Atomwaffen co-founder, Brandon Russell, was not home when the slayings happened but found the bodies when he returned from duties with the National Guard, investigators said. Russell pleaded guilty in September 2017 to federal charges of possessing illegal firearms and a destructive device, as well as storing explosives illegally.

The bomb-making materials -- including the highly explosive substance HMTD, several pounds of ammonium nitrate and homemade fuses -- were discovered during the murder investigation. Arthurs told police the group planned terrorist attacks, possibly against nuclear plants.

I prevented the deaths of a lot of people, Arthurs said in a rambling statement after his arrest. Asked why his roommates would plan such an attack, he responded, Because they want to build a Fourth Reich.

Russell was sentenced to five years in prison on the weapons and bomb charges. After his release, he was charged in a new case earlier this year with plotting with a Maryland woman to attack Baltimore's power grid in an attempt to stir racial unrest. Prosecutors said that plan was to target five substations situated in a ring around the majority-Black city. No attack took place.

Russell and his co-defendant, Sarah Beth Clendaniel, have both pleaded not guilty in Maryland federal court and are awaiting trial.

As for Arthurs, his case was delayed several times while he received mental treatment after being declared incompetent to stand trial in 2018 and again in 2020. Finally, in June 2022, a Hillsborough County judge determined Arthurs had restored his mental capacity sufficiently to stand trial.

I feel I can be an advocate against extremism, Arthurs said in court on Monday, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Id like to take this moment to tell the world to stay away from extremist groups. ... Im very sorry for everyone that was involved. Im very sorry for everything that has happened.

Arthurs was first arrested shortly after the shootings  which police did not yet know about  while holding several people at gunpoint and making rambling statements at a local smoke shop. Doctors diagnosed Arthurs with schizophrenia, autism and other mental illnesses.
GLENWOOD, Wis. (AP)  A suspected drunken driver shot and killed a Wisconsin sheriff's deputy during a traffic stop before running into some nearby woods and killing himself, authorities said Sunday.

During a conversation about field sobriety tests, Jeremiah Johnson was evasive, drew a handgun and shot St. Croix County Deputy Kaitie Leising in Glenwood, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Minneapolis, the state Department of Justice said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden would veto a House GOP bill that aims to restrict asylum, build more border wall and cut a program that allows migrants a chance to stay in the U.S., including Ukrainian refugees, the White House said Monday.

Republicans are looking to capitalize as immigration trouble surges into a national spotlight this week with the ending of COVID-19 restrictions that allowed border authorities to quickly return many migrants who crossed the border illegally.

GOP lawmkers aim to vote on their Secure the Border Act on Thursday  the same day the emergency expulsion powers expire. Officials have already seen an increase of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border and are bracing for more.

The legislation represents the GOPs first major immigration policy proposal since the Trump era, when immigration opponents controlled the White House. The 213-page bill resurrects a slew of former President Donald Trumps policies, such as building barriers along hundreds of miles of border country, and in some cases pushes beyond his efforts.

It faces strong headwinds from some Republicans representing agricultural areas over requirements that businesses verify employees legal immigration status, and even if it passes the majority-Republican House, it stands little chance of passing the Democratic-held Senate. But if it were to end up on the president's desk, he'd veto it.

The Biden administration regularly argues that Congress needs to act significantly on the border in order to fix major problems that have led to record numbers of people illegally crossing. But this isnt the way to do it, in the view of the White House.

While we welcome Congress engagement on meaningful steps to address immigration and the challenges at the border, this bill would make things worse, not better, says a statement from the White House Office of Management and Budget. Because this bill does very little to actually increase border security while doing a great deal to trample on the nations core values and international obligations, it should be rejected.

In the absence of legislation, the Biden administration has adopted policy shifts beginning this week that pair stricter enforcement at the border with a growing avenue for migrants to apply for asylum, as long as they come legally, have a sponsor and pass background checks. The decisions are an effort to persuade immigrants to skip the dangerous journey north and to apply for asylum through a new app, or at regional hubs opening in Guatemala and Colombia.

Congress in past decades has traditionally tackled overhauls to border security and immigration law by coupling stronger border-enforcement measures with policy changes that expanded legal pathways or provided legal status for undocumented immigrants already in the U.S.

The House GOP is applying the same logic  pairing a border security package with changes in immigration reform rules  in hopes of uniting mainstream and far-right lawmakers. But instead of expanding legal pathways for migrants, the package restricts them.

Joe Biden sent a message that Americas border is open, and millions of people answered that call and started coming across our border illegally, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., said at a news conference, adding, Were going to show the president how to solve the problem.

The bill would expand border wall building, which was a major focus of Trump, who claimed he was going to build a wall and make Mexico pay for it. It would also essentially choke off asylum, requiring migrants to cross legally, pay a $50 fee and meet more stringent requirements to show in initial interviews that they are fleeing political, religious or racial persecution.

It would also cut the program that has allowed U.S. officials to accept or quickly turn away some migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua. The program is a cornerstone of Biden's immigration efforts, allowing migrants from those countries to apply to come to the U.S. for two years legally and work. It could also, in theory, bar Ukrainian refugees since they are in the U.S. under the same type of agreement.

Scalise, on Twitter Monday, called the legislation the strongest border security package in history and said that Biden's veto promise showed the president has no plan to solve the crisis he created.

The White House statement from the management and budget office said the Republican bill stands to cut off nearly all access to humanitarian protections in ways that are inconsistent with our nations values and international obligations. It would also cut necessary funding.

Meanwhile in the Senate, Sens. Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, and Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent, have proposed legislation that would give federal officials the power to quickly expel migrants for another two years. The pair are also working on a Senate proposal that would expand legal immigration while increasing border security.

Some House Republicans hope their bill could offer a start to negotiations with the Senate.

As lawmakers began forming the proposal last month, Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, a Republican who has pushed for years for immigration rule changes, said, We have to in the House, get the votes to pass a serious border security bill to make sure that this issue doesnt just go away.
WALLINGFORD  A line stretched out the door of Los Mariachis Mexican Restaurant on Friday evening. The dining area, bar and patio were all packed with patrons who celebrated the Mexican holiday that commemorates the Battle of Puebla, also known as Cinco de Mayo.

Every Cinco de Mayo is crazy, but its fun, said owner Loren Aguirre. Everyone is Mexican for a day.

Aguirre is from Mexico City, Mexico, and opened Los Mariachis 18 years ago. Even though Los Mariachis has the self-proclaimed best margaritas in town, the restaurant has been sharing the tequila with SCOW this week for their Great Give fundraising initiative. Friday marked the second time Los Mariachis partnered with SCOW to host celebrity bartenders at an afterparty for the nonprofits fundraiser.

The Great Give ended Wednesday, but a glass fishbowl at the special SCOW stand in the patio of Los Mariachis collected tips that will go to fund the programs at SCOW that provide immigration services, education, advocacy, translation, interpretation, among many others. This year, SCOW met their $1,000 fundraising goal in tips, said Executive Director Adriana Rodriguez.

The weather was perfect for an outdoor drink as Latin music played over loudspeakers and a gentle breeze blew the colorful papel picado streamers. SCOW Board member Angel Cyr served margaritas, beer and tequila shots while wearing a hot pink Mexican huipil.

Cyr has no bartending experience, but wanted to support the services SCOW provides. Even though she is not Mexican, Cyr said she is close to Mexican culture. Her stepfather is from Sinaloa, Mexico, so she learned Spanish to support him. Now works as a talent partner at NUCOR steel and volunteered as a celebrity bartender on Friday.

A lot of the folks that migrated here to Wallingford was because of Nucor steel. Theres a history there, she said.

In addition to Cyr and Rodriguez, SCOW staffer Jennifer Avila and SCOW board member Francisco Lopez helped man the liquor stand during Fridays nine-hour afterparty.

This years Great Give initiative started on Wednesday morning and raised funds for a number New Haven area nonprofits over the course of 36 hours. As part of the Great Give, SCOW also hosted a Happy Hour Fiesta earlier this week at Los Mariachis. Rodriguez said that SCOW raised a little over $6,000 this year.

We are very thankful to everyone who donated and shared and has been a cheerleader for us, she said.

In addition to the annual wine-tasting party and other community events, SCOW Board Chairman Jeffrey Necio said that he was very encouraged by seeing the community turn out for the event.

The Great Give was one of them where you really see the community come out and really show their support and it really makes you feel good. That you know what you're doing is recognized as making a difference in the community, he said.

lguzman@record-journal.com,Twitter: @lguzm_n

Latino Communities Reporter Lau Guzman is a corps member with Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. Support RFA reporters at the Record-Journal through a donation at https://bit.ly/3Pdb0re, To learn more about RFA, visit www.reportforamerica.org.
Today marks the start of my official country visit to #Peru. I'm looking forward to engaging w/ state & non-state actors to evaluate & discuss protection of the rights to peaceful assembly & of association. Thanks to authorities for extending this invitation at this crucial time. pic.twitter.com/4u8MjwxvHC
AN 18 year-old house maid has been arrested for allegedly mixing her employers drink with poison in Glen Norah.

Nyaradzo Gosha stands accused of fixing her employer Konai Muzhangiri, 37, for denying her the chance to go out and meet her sister.

Harare provincial deputy police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Webster Dzvova, confirmed the arrest.

Police arrested a house maid for attempted murder, said Ass-Insp Dzvova.

Circumstances were that the accused is complainants house maid.

On April 28, at around 1900 hours, the complainant asked her 5-year-old daughter to prepare Mazoe Orange crush drink for her.

She filled the glass with undiluted Mazoe and gave it to the complainant.

Complainant sensed a poisonous smell from the Mazoe drink.

She asked the accused person where the smell was coming from and accused confessed that she had added rat poison, baking yeast, jungle oats, and Fenu greek seeds into the 2 litre Mazoe drink.

The accused person was reported to have told complainant that she had done this in order to get rid of her since she was refusing to give her a chance to go out before the arrival of her sister who was coming to collect her, said Ass-Insp Dzvova.

 HMetro

Breaking News via Email
By Lambert Strether of Corrente.

Lets get the engineering stuff out of the way first, because masking is too important to be left to the medical community. Covid is airborne (a.k.a. aerosol transmission); people infect each other with Covid via shared air, which floats like cigarette smoke. Covid is airborne in hospital settings. Masks work to prevent airborne transmission[1].

* * *

Mass General Hospital (Mass General, MGH) is Harvard Medical Schools teaching hospital. MGH is ranked #8 nationally, #1 in Massachusetts. (Mass General is also part of an corporate moloch known as Mass General Brigham, which is the dominant, tax-exempt academic hospital organization in Massachusetts with $16 billion of annual revenue). As such, MGH is deeply interlocked with the Massachusetts political, financial, and NGO elites. As a teaching hospital, it exerts enormous influence on health care policy and practice through its network of academics, graduates, researchers, etc. I also have MGH to thank for saving my eyesight, when I had a detached retina many years ago. (MGH also spawned Rochelle Walenksy. Im not sure if that evens out or not.)

MGH has announced it will change its masking policy on May 12 (four days from now):

With the end of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, @MassGenBrigham will end universal masking at all our hospitals, clinics, and other facilities starting on May 12, 2023. Learn more: https://t.co/zAuMrcnlNm pic.twitter.com/snDkTf54aN  Mass General Cancer Center (@MGHCancerCenter) May 5, 2023

Here is some of the press coverage:

Sadly, MGHs announcement is disingenuous, and the press coverage is wrong. Here is actual policy. And here are its two key aspects from the patients perspective:

As you can see, the patient cannot even ask for staff (doctor, nurse, radiologist, anyone) to be masked; there is to be no accommodation for anyone, even the immunocompromised.

This policy is not medically justified: I mean, imagine a staffer is coughing. Patients arent allowed to ask them to mask?[2] Further, the policy mandates one-way masking, which permits more infection than two-way (universal). This policy is wrong for everyone, even if it endangers the immunocompromised most. Covid spreads asymptomatically; it is not possible to know if a staffer has it or not. Further, Covid is airborne and spreads like cigarette smoke; you can catch it from a cashier, or someone passing in the hall, just as well as from a doctor. Masking should be universal in the facility. Therefore, for a percentage of patients, on any given day, MGH is mandating infection.

This policy is not medically justified: Double-masking wrecks fit, as MGH  in the person of Erica Shenoy, who we will meet immediately below  itself admits[3]:

It is important to note that the CDC does not recommend wearing two disposable masks or using a disposable mask over a cloth mask. Neither of these approaches improves the function of the mask in a meaningful way. The CDC does not recommend wearing two disposable masks, as that does not improve fit. They also stress not wearing more than one KN95 mask, or a mask over a KN95 .

MHG is requiring in 2023 exactly what they deprecated in 2021. Here again for a percentage of patients, on any given day, MGH is mandating infection, as we see from this telling anecdote. Shenoy doesnt know a mask from a hole in the ground:

"If you are worried about compromising the seal you should remove your home face covering and wear the facemask provided." i.e. I should remove my N95 and wear a surgical mask for a better seal. I replied to both her and @ericashenoy explaining this made no sense. I was ignored  Nurit Baytch (@NuritBaytch) April 19, 2023

How did a major teaching hospital end up mandating infection? Well, that would require more insight into the reactionary mossbacks running the institutional aspects of Hospital Infection Control than I have[4]. What I can say is the first and corresponding author of a key paper creating the permission structure for abandoning universal masking in hospitals  and the consequent addition of Covid patients to the already horrific numbers on Hospital-Acquired (nosocominal) Infection  is none other than Erica Shenoy, Medical Director of Infection Control for Mass General Brigham. First, I will look at Shenoys paper. Spoiler alert: Its bad. Then, I will look at the ADA lawsuit filed against MGH: good, but not great.

The Paper

Shenoys paper is from the Ideas and Opinions section in the Annals of Internal Medicine, which KLG regards as authoritative: Universal Masking in Health Care Settings: A Pandemic Strategy Whose Time Has Come and Gone, For Now (for now is rich. As if these goons would ever allow masks back). The paper has in essence two reasons why universal masking should be abandoned. First, basically, things are better now, due to better treatments, lower mortality, endemicity, and so forth. Second, masks interfere with the delivery of care. I asked KLG to review the first aspect of the paper; I will review the second.

Here is the key paragraph for Shenoys first claim:

[T]he context and conditions of the pandemic have changed dramatically and favorably since masking requirements in health care were initially adopted The burden of SARS-CoV-2 has been mitigated over time through access to testing, substantial population-level immunity providing durable protection against severe disease, a series of less virulent variants, and widespread availability of medical countermeasures, which in combination have resulted in decreasing infection mortality rates.

Here is a lightly edited version of KLGs response:

This editorial is on the surface very well argued in the leading journal devoted to internal medicine. But other conclusions may rightly differ from those of the authors. They focus on contextual factors in the transition of mortality rates from high to moderate to lower to low during the pandemic. All well and good. But one doesnt really know what to think of widespread access to therapeutics. Paxlovid? The evidence is still out on that one (I saw Paxlovid rebound in a close colleague, and it was awful) and other antivirals are still in the pipeline somewhere, one would hope. An effective vaccine to coronaviruses is still a unicorn and likely to remain so. As far as improved vaccines targeted properly to those most at risk, really? Where and what? Regarding testing, most tests are now antibody self-tests at home with no reporting requirement. Someone with a mild case who needs to work right now to live, is likely to be a spreader, and the case in his victims may not be mild. While the concentration on mortality seems reasonable, this may have declined due to the culling effect of the first wave (a harsh but a reasonable assumption) and improved clinical management of a novel disease. I saw no mention of long covid or the effects of repeated infection on the health of those who get COVID-19 three, four, five, and more times. Endemic does not mean innocuous. HPV is endemic and due to this virus, I spent much of 2022 dealing with the sometimes very challenging consequences of exposure to HPV.

I guess its a good thing for Shenoy, then, that this is an opinion piece. Or maybe its just an idea, and a bad one. I really wouldnt know what the editors had in mind. Perhaps they were doing Shenoy a favor?

Here is the key paragraph for Shenoys second claim. Since this is yellow wader-level, er, material, Im going to add some letterered notes, thus [A]:

Maintaining masking requirements for [Health Care Personnel (HCP)] during all direct clinical encounters[A] may marginally reduce[B] the risk for transmission from HCP to patient or from patient to HCP. Those potential[C] incremental benefits, however, need to be weighed against increasingly recognized[D] costs. Masking impedes communication, a barrier that is distributed unequally across patient populations, such as those for whom English is not their preferred language and those who are hard-of-hearing and rely on lip reading and other nonverbal cues[E]. The increase in listening effort required when masks are used in clinical encounters is associated with increased cognitive load for patients and clinicians (5)[F]. Masks obscure facial expression; contribute to feelings of isolation; and negatively impact human connection, trust, and perception of empathy (6,[G] 7[H]).

Before going further, I should point out that today masking by staff is common in Asian hospital settings. Therefore, all of Shenoys claims are negated for almost half of humanity. If I were so-minded, Id call out Shenoy for being Eurocentric, or colonialist, or even racist. To the detail

[A] Shenoy  it seems hardly possible  seems not to recognize that Covid is airborne, spreads like smoke, and is present everywhere, not merely in direct clinical encounters; thats why masking needs to be universal throughout the facility.

[B] Nice spin on may marginally reduce. But doesnt this claim deserve a footnote? Where were the editors on that? See at engineering, the first paragraph.

[C] More spin. The benefits of masking are real and demonstrable. See again at engineering. See also this useful thread from Trisha Greenhalgh.

[D] Increasingly recognized by whom? When? In what publications? How on earth did the editors let a bare assertion like this pass?

[E] So make accommodations for them. Under, say, the ADA?

[F] Footnote (5) is Face mask use in healthcare settings: effects on communication, cognition, listening effort and strategies for amelioration, Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications (2022). N = 243, some hearing impaired, some not. Self-reported Facebook survey. Assuming all the effects are in fact clinically significant  I dont  Shenoy is simply dishonest tendentious in that she erases the strategies for amelioration section of the paper, from which I quote:

To better understand how patients feel medical appointments could be improved, patients rated the following eight rehabilitative strategies from least helpful to what is most helpful during clinical appointments A majority (57.5%) of patients selected written or visual instruction for themselves and/or their family members to be the most beneficial to have during their medical appointments, followed by including a family member into the appointment remotely if unable to attend by phone/video call (32.5%), microphones worn by the healthcare provider/Assistive listening technology (25%), more frequency phone/email follow-ups with your healthcare provider (20%), speech-to-text application (17.5%), longer appointment times (17.5%), additional follow-up appointments (15%), and support groups (5%).

Doesnt all that sound like something a humane medical system should do? And isnt it the least bit sketchy that Shenoy would rather infect patients by eliminating universal masking than  hear me out  ask doctors to speak louder or write things down?

[G] Footnote (6) is Effect of facemasks on empathy and relational continuity: a randomised controlled trial in primary care, BMC Family Practice (2013). N = 1030. First, the study is from Hong Kong. I would be very surprised indeed to find that HCWs in Hong Kong did not wear masks  search is completely useless on this, being contaminated by the mask wars  if only because of the lingering effects of SARS. If they do, that means they consider (as they ought) that patient safety is their primary concern. Second, Amongst the wealth of literature analyzing non-verbal behaviour and its effect on the doctor-patient relationship, this is the first in exploring the impact of concealing facial expressions on the patients perception of empathy. I absolutely deny that masks conceal facial expression. Thats a hypothesis, not a fact. The eyes are part of the face, and capable of communicating a full range of emotion and empathy. Third, In this large randomized controlled trial, we found that the wearing of facemasks by doctors had little effect on patient enablement and satisfaction but had a significant and negative effect on patients perceptions of the doctors empathy. So if the patients were satisfied when the doctor was masked, does empathy matter so much? Isnt patient satisfaction a key metric for hospital administrators these days? Finally, this all boils down to Let me see your smile. Feh.

[H] Footnote (7) is Morally Injurious Experiences and Emotions of Health Care Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic Before Vaccine Availability JAMA (2021). To begin with, plenty of moral injury was due to there not being enough PPE, including masks, a situtation for which Hospital Infection Control is directly responsible (I felt as though we were being offered up for slaughter by having to stay in a COVID filled room with questionable PPE), a moral injury Shenoy oddly omits to consider. Second, confounders: masks and social distancing contribute to feelings of isolation. Many stated that it was stressful adapting to social distancing measures, such as having to stand farther away from a colleague than previously (respondent 11), not being able to see the entirety of facial expressions, or even recognizing coworkers in the hallway. The close interactions that would have bonded coworkers together are restricted, and many outlets for stress have been suspended. Nowhere in the study are masks singled out as causing any sort of injury whatever. Third, I can only classify Shenoy whinging about the moral injury while establishing a policy that mandates patient infection as chutzpah. If not worse.

Finally, one cannot help but contrast the flimsiness and tendentious quality of Shenoys work product with the braying for RCTs that assails aerosol scientists and mask advocates. Shenoys work is mediocre at best; sloppy and dishonest at worst, and should form no basis for a policy change at a major teaching hospital, let alone a policy change that puts patients at risk.

Let us now turn to the lawsuit that hopes to prevent Shenoys dangerous bunkum from coming to pass.

The Lawsuit(s)

First, from another part of the Harvard forest, the question of liability. From Hospitals That Ditch Masks Risk Exposure:

Ending routine masking in hospital settings is a dangerous move. It puts patients and staff at risk for infection, and its potential long-term effects. It also exposes hospitals to the risk of liability. Hospitals have a common law duty to act reasonably. If they unreasonably expose patients to risk, and the patients are harmed as a result, hospitals may be liable for damages. The result: patients who can show that it is probable that they were infected with COVID-19 in a hospital, and that they would not have been if the hospital had taken reasonable measures to protect them, may be able to successfully sue hospitals for damages.

Further, CDC may not be able to run interference for them:

The big question is what does it mean to act reasonably in a world in which COVID-19 abounds and remains a leading cause of death, including for children. Over the past century, courts have developed a variety of approaches to figuring out the bounds of reasonableness. In determining whether a precaution is reasonable, modern courts commonly consider the relative costs and benefits of taking that precaution. Where an individual causes harm because they fail to take a cost-justified precaution, they may be found negligent and required to pay for the damages they have caused. Requiring masks in direct patient care settings is a prime example of a cost-justified precaution. Masking is a simple, effective, and low-cost measure that hospitals can take to substantially reduce the spread of COVID-19. And the benefits are significant in hospital settings. Hospitals concentrate people who, as reflected in the conditions that bring them to the hospital, are both more prone to infection and more likely to face serious consequences if infected. Moreover, both healthcare providers and patients are known vectors of transmission in healthcare institutions.

MGH has deep, deep pockets; $16 billion deep. I hope some clever lawyer, even now, is working out how to dig in and collect a packet. But thats not the instant case, which is an ADA suit.

My first Patreon lawsuit  Mass General Brigham wants a blanket ban on staff  disability accommodations. I think thats unlawful  but never mind that. From Mathew Cortland, not actually a lawyer (but you dont need to be one to file an ADA complaint):

In my view, filing before Monday morning is incredibly important because we are rapidly careening towards May 12th [when MGHs new policy goes into effect[. So, while this is not the document I would have produced if I had more time, it will have to suffice.

I will now quote a great slab of text from Cortlands complaint. MGB is Mass General Brigham, Mass Generals parent entity. Notes are omitted. Again, I have added notes thus: [A]:

In the context of SARS-CoV-2, masks serve two primary functions: 1) respiratory protection and 2) source control. Respiratory protection refers to the mask filtering viral particles from the air as the mask wearer breathes in. A perfectly fitted N100 mask (also known as a filtering facepiecerespirator), would be expected to filter 99.97% of airborne particles. Respiratory protection, therefore, can be thought of as my mask protecting me. Source control refers to the mask blocking transmission of infectious virus when the mask wearer talks, exhales, coughs, or sneezes[A]. Source control is the function whereby the mask blocks the mask wearer from spewing infectious virus in the air or onto a nearby surface[B] or person. Source control, therefore, can be thought of as my mask protecting you. CDC has published a document titled Scientific Brief: SARS-CoV-2 Transmission which includes a key component of the scientific rational for a disabled patient asking health care staff to mask. CDC says, in relevant part, [t]he principal mode by which people are infected with SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) is through exposure to respiratory fluids carrying infectious virus. Exposure occurs in three principal ways: (1) inhalation of very fine respiratory droplets and aerosol particles[C], (2) deposition of respiratory droplets and particles on exposed mucous membranes in the mouth, nose, or eye by direct splashes and sprays, and (3) touching mucous membranes with hands that have been soiled either directly by virus-containing respiratory fluids or indirectly by touching surfaces with virus on them. Id. With regard to the first mechanism, inhalation, CDC says inhalation [r]isk of transmission is greatest within three to six feet of an infectious source where the concentration of these very fine droplets and particles is greatest[D]. Id. Even a mask that doesnt provide complete source control, e.g. a surgical mask, will decrease the concentration of infectious very fine droplets and particles within three to six feet of an infectious source. With regard to the second mechanism, CDC describes deposition of virus carried in exhaled droplets and particles onto exposed mucous membranes (i.e., splashes and sprays, such as being coughed on) and says that risk of deposition transmission is likewise greatest close to an infectious source where the concentration of these exhaled droplets and particles is greatest. Id. Even a mask that doesnt provide complete source control, e.g. a surgical mask, will block splashes and sprays from an infectious source. In a large health care system such as MGB, there are almost certain to be health care staff who are actively infected with COVID-19 but who are asymptomatic and unaware of that they are COVID-19 positive. Disabled patients who are at higher risk from COVID-19 have the right to ask MGB staff to mask[E] as a reasonable modification to MGBs staff masking policy in order to access health care provided by MGB. At least one federal district court has found that requiring mask usage can be a reasonable modification on the basis of disability. Seaman v. Virginia, 593 F. Supp. 3d 293. Instead, MGB seeks to impose a blanket ban on requests for reasonable modification on the basis of disability to its staff masking policy. MGB is doing so in violation of federal disability civil rights law.

[A] Or breathes.

[B] Fomite transmission of Covid is not supported in the literature (though China believes in it, perhaps rightly).

[C] This verbiage is CDCs awkward attempt to reconcile droplet dogma and aerosol transmission. I dont recall epidemiology on (2) splashes and sprays and (3) touching mucous membranes. The former is droplet dogma, the latter is fomite transmission.

[D] Wrong. Covid is airborne, and moves through the entire hospital facility.

[E] They do, but the limitations of the ADA approach is that it does not get us to universal masking.

Im a little concerned that this complaint could win the battle and lose the war if (A) the abhorrence  the visceral hatred and denial  of airborne transmission shared by both CDC and Hospital Infection Control becomes enshrined in any sort of citable precedent, and (B) masking becomes, well, a scarlet letter for the disabled  even if they do become safer for it, as they will  but the not-yet-disabled go unprotected. At a bare minimum, everybody should be able to ask staff to mask, and double-masking would be deprecated. However, Im a maximalist, and I think masking should be universal and a cultural norm. An ADA-centric approach, even if important tactically, cannot get us to that point.

Conclusion

Something is very, very wrong in Hospital Infection Control. From the San Jose Mercury News, Opinion: California health care providers retreat from COVID masking is shameful:

When the California Department of Public Health last month lifted mask mandates in health care settings, it didnt even cross my mind as a physician and CEO of Roots Community Health Center to drop masks in clinics I oversee in the East Bay and San Jose. The absence of a public health order never determined health care facility policy before, so I was shocked that several health systems dropped masks the moment they stopped being required. I did not need to be mandated to do the right thing for patients and staff at the onset of the pandemic, and the removal of a mandate did not erase my duty to protect and advocate for essential frontline workers and marginalized community members. With the swift unmasking, I was not surprised by the COVID outbreak within about two weeks at Kaiser Permanentes Santa Rosa Hospital and the facilitys quick return to masking. We should all be dismayed that staff and patients were allowed to be sickened despite the availability of masks to prevent the unnecessary harm. Organized medicines retreat from masking is shameful. It is not data driven, and there is no experiential evidence to support the decision to de-mask. That is why hospital-issued statements fail to cite science for their policy changes. Instead, faceless committees issue platitudes about being in a new phase and reference available treatments. But they paper over the very problem they are creating: In what universe is it ethically appropriate for health care institutions to infect their own patients with SARS-CoV-2 when masking so effectively reduces its spread ?

Thats a very good question. Sadly, nobody in MGHs Infection Control Department seems able to answer it. Except, I suppose, with a shrug, a sneer, and a demand to Let me see you smile!

NOTES

[1] There is rough hierarchy of masks according to the seal they create, starting with Baggy Blues, (surgical masks), through ear-loop respirators (KN95), headstrap respirators (N95, ideally fit-tested), and ending with full-on Darth Vader masks. (Im eliding N95 and KN95 because the market has so confused them; there also many international standards). Protection should, of course, be layered, masks forming one layer.) Yes, Covid is the disease, SARS-CoV-2 is the virus. Then again, HCWs themselves say COVID filled room so theres no point being tediously literal-minded.

[2] Examples of coughing and sniffling staffers who are maskless, or with a Baggy Blue sagging beneath their chins, are so numerous on the Twitter as to form a genre.

[3] Its been awhile, but I would have thought we moved beyond cloth masks by March 2021. Its also noteworthy that nowhere does MGH recommend that people use the highest quality mask, and while they write: Patients and visitors to Mass General will be issued a single, hospital-grade medical mask. This mask has multiple layers and meets hospital standards they very explicitly do not say these are N95-level. (So-called hospital-grade masks, which fit poorly, are probably optimized for droplet dogma, not airborne transmission.

[4] At this point we remember that Dr. John M. Conly, corresponding author of the infamous fools gold-standard Cochrane study, also made his way upward to his perch at WHO from the primordial slime of Hospital Infection Control in Alberta, Canada.
At least two 9/11 hijackers had been recruited into a joint CIA-Saudi intelligence operation that was covered up at the highest level, according to an explosive new court filing.

(Natural News) (Article by Kit Klarenberg republished from TheGrayzone.com)

A newly-released court filing raises grave questions about the relationship between Alec Station, a CIA unit set up to track Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and his associates, and two 9/11 hijackers leading up to the attacks, which was subject to a coverup at the highest levels of the FBI.

Obtained by SpyTalk, the filing is a 21-page declaration by Don Canestraro, a lead investigator for the Office of Military Commissions, the legal body overseeing the cases of 9/11 defendants. It summarizes classified government discovery disclosures, and private interviews he conducted with anonymous high-ranking CIA and FBI officials. Many agents who spoke to Canestraro headed up Operation Encore, the Bureaus aborted, long-running probe into Saudi government connections to the 9/11 attack.

Despite conducting multiple lengthy interviews with a range of witnesses, producing hundreds of pages of evidence, formally investigating several Saudi officials, and launching a grand jury to probe a Riyadh-run US-based support network for the hijackers, Encore was abruptly terminated in 2016. This was purportedly due to a byzantine intra-FBI bust-up over investigative methods.

When originally released in 2021 on the Offices public court docket, every part of the document was redacted except an unclassified marking. Given its explosive contents, it is not difficult to see why: as Canestraros investigation concluded, at least two 9/11 hijackers had been recruited either knowingly or unknowingly into a joint CIA-Saudi intelligence operation which may have gone awry.

A 50/50 chance of Saudi involvement

In 1996, Alec Station was created under the watch of the CIA. The initiative was supposed to comprise a joint investigative effort with the FBI. However, FBI operatives assigned to the unit soon found they were prohibited from passing any information to the Bureaus head office without the CIAs authorization, and faced harsh penalties for doing so. Efforts to share information with the FBIs equivalent unit  the I-49 squad based in New York  were repeatedly blocked.

In late 1999, with the system blinking red about an imminent large-scale Al Qaeda terror attack inside the US, the CIA and NSA were closely monitoring an operational cadre within an Al Qaeda cell that included the Saudi nationals Nawaf al-Hazmi and Khalid al-Mihdhar. The pair would purportedly go on to hijack American Airlines Flight 77, which crashed into the Pentagon on 9/11.

Al-Hazmi and al-Midhar had attended an Al Qaeda summit that took place between January 5th and 8th 2000, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The meeting was secretly photographed and videotaped by local authorities at Alec Stations request although, apparently, no audio was captured. En route, Mihdhar transited through Dubai, where CIA operatives broke into his hotel room and photocopied his passport. It showed that he possessed a multi-entry visa to the US.

A contemporaneous internal CIA cable stated this information was immediately passed to the FBI for further investigation. In reality, Alec Station not only failed to inform the Bureau of Mihdhars US visa, but also expressly forbade two FBI agents assigned to the unit from doing so.

[I said] weve got to tell the Bureau about this. These guys clearly are badweve got to tell the FBI. And then [the CIA] said to me, no, its not the FBIs case, not the FBIs jurisdiction, Mark Rossini, one of the FBI agents in question, has alleged. If we had picked up the phone and called the Bureau, I wouldve been violating the law. Iwouldve been removed from the building that day. I wouldve had my clearances suspended, and I would be gone.

On January 15th, Hazmi and Mihdhar entered the US through Los Angeles International Airport, just weeks after the foiled Millennium plot. Omar al-Bayoumi, a Saudi government ghost employee immediately met them at an airport restaurant. After a brief conversation, Bayoumi helped them find an apartment near his own in San Diego, co-signed their lease, set them up bank accounts, and gifted $1,500 towards their rent. The three would have multiple contacts moving forward.

In interviews with Operation Encore investigators years later, Bayoumi alleged his run-in with the two would-be hijackers was mere happenstance. His extraordinary practical and financial support was, he claimed, simply charitable, motivated by sympathy for the pair, who could barely speak English and were unfamiliar with Western culture.

The Bureau disagreed, concluding Bayoumi was a Saudi spy, who handled a number of Al Qaeda operatives in the US. They also considered there to be a 50/50 chance he  and by extension Riyadh  had detailed advance knowledge of the 9/11 attacks.

That remarkable finding wasnt known publicly until two decades later, when a tranche of Operation Encore documents were declassified upon the Biden administrations orders, and it was completely ignored by the mainstream media. Don Canestraros declaration now reveals FBI investigators went even further in their assessments.

A Bureau special agent, dubbed CS-3 in the document, stated Bayoumis contact with the hijackers and support thereafter was done at the behest of the CIA through the Saudi intelligence service. Alec Stations explicit purpose was to recruit Al-Hazmi and Al-Mihdhar via a liaison relationship, with the assistance of Riyadhs General Intelligence Directorate.

A most unusual CIA unit

Alec Stations formal remit was to track bin Laden, collect intelligence on him, run operations against him, disrupt his finances, and warn policymakers about his activities and intentions. These activities would naturally entail enlisting informants within Al Qaeda.

Nonetheless, as several high level sources told Canestraro, it was extremely unusual for such an entity to be involved in gathering intelligence and recruiting assets. The US-based unit was run by CIA analysts, who do not typically manage human assets. Legally, that work is the exclusive preserve of case officers trained in covert operations and based overseas.

CS-10, a CIA case officer within Alec Station, concurred with the proposition that Hazmi and Mihdhar enjoyed a relationship with the CIA through Bayoumi, and was baffled that the unit was tasked with attempting to penetrate Al Qaeda in the first place. They felt it would be nearly impossibleto develop informants inside the group, given the virtual station was based in a Langley basement, several thousand miles from the countries where Al Qaeda was suspected of operating.

CS-10 further testified that they observed other unusual activities at Alec Station. Analysts within the unit would direct operations to case officers in the field by sending the officers cables instructing them to do a specific tasking, which was a violation of CIA procedures. Analysts normally lacked the authority to direct a case officer to do anything.

CS-11, a CIA operations specialist posted to Alec Station sometime prior to the 9/11 attacks said they likewise observed activity that appeared to be outside normal CIA procedures. Analysts within the unit mostly stuck to themselves and did not interact frequently with others. When communicating with one another through internal cables, they also used operational pseudonyms, which CS-11 described as peculiar, as they were not working undercover, and their employment with the CIA was not classified information.

The units unusual operational culture may explain some of the stranger decisions made during this period vis a vis Al Qaeda informants. In early 1998, while on a CIA mission to penetrate Londons Islamist scene, a joint FBI-CIA informant named Aukai Collins received a stunning offer: bin Laden himself wanted him to go to Afghanistan so they could meet.

Collins relayed the request to his superiors. While the FBI was in favor of infiltrating Al Qaedas base, his CIA handler nixed the idea, saying, there was no way the US would approve an American operative going undercover into Bin Ladens camps.

Similarly, in June 2001, CIA and FBI analysts from Alec Station met with senior Bureau officials, including representatives of its own Al Qaeda unit. The CIA shared three photos of individuals who attended the Kuala Lumpur meeting 18 months earlier, including Hazmi and Mihdhar. However, as an FBI counter-terror officer codenamed CS-15 recalled, the dates of the photos and key details about the figures they depicted were not revealed. Instead, the analysts simply asked if the FBI knew the identities of the individuals in the photos.

Another FBI official present, CS-12, offers an even more damning account. The Alec Station analysts not only failed to offer biographical information, but falsely implied one of the individuals might be Fahd Al-Quso, a suspect in the bombing of the USS Cole. Whats more, they outright refused to answer any questions related to the photographs. Nonetheless, it was confirmed that no system was in place to alert the FBI if any of the three entered the US  a standard investigative technique for terror suspects.

Given Hazmi and Mihdhar appeared to be simultaneously working for Alec Station in some capacity, the June 2001 meeting may well have been a dangle. No intelligence value could be extracted from inquiring whether the Bureau knew who their assets were, apart from ascertaining if the FBIs counter-terror team was aware of their identities, physical appearances, and presence in the US.

Quite some coverup

Another of Canestraros sources, a former FBI agent who went by CS-23, testified that after 9/11, FBI headquarters and its San Diego field office quickly learned of Bayoumis affiliation with Saudi intelligence and subsequently the existence of the CIAs operation to recruit Hazmi and Mihdhar.

However, senior FBI officials suppressed investigations into these matters. CS-23 alleged, furthermore, that Bureau agents testifying before the Joint Inquiry into 9/11 were instructed not to reveal the full extent of Saudi involvement with Al-Qaeda.

The US intelligence community would have had every reason to shield Riyadh from scrutiny and consequences for its role in the 9/11 attacks, as it was then one of its closest allies. But the FBIs eager complicity in Alec Stations coverup may have been motivated by self-interest, as one of its own was intimately involved in the units effort to recruit Hazmi and Mihdhar, and conceal their presence in the US from relevant authorities.

CS-12, who attended the June 2001 meeting with Alec Station, told Canestraro that they continued to press FBI Headquarters for further information regarding the subjects in the photographs over that summer. On August 23rd, they stumbled upon an electronic communication from FBI headquarters, which identified Hazmi and Mihdhar, and noted they were in the US.

CS-12 then contacted the FBI analyst within Alec Station who authored the communication. The conversation quickly became heated, with the analyst ordering them to delete the memo immediately as they were not authorized to view it. While unnamed in the declaration, the FBI analyst in question was Dina Corsi.

The next day, on a conference call between CS-12, Corsi, and the FBIs bin Laden unit chief, officials at FBI headquarters explicitly told CS-12 to stand down and cease looking for Mihdhar, as the Bureau intended to open an intelligence gathering investigation on him. The next day, CS-12 emailed Corsi, stating bluntly someone is going to die unless Mihdhar was pursued criminally.

It was surely no coincidence that two days later, on August 26th, Alec Station finally informed the FBI that Hazmi and Mihdhar were in the US. By then, the pair had entered the final phase of preparations for the impending attacks. If a criminal probe had been opened, they could have been stopped in their tracks. Instead, as foreshadowed by the officials in contact with CS-12, an intelligence investigation was launched which hindered any search efforts.

In the days immediately after the 9/11 attacks, CS-12 and other New York-based FBI agents participated in another conference call with Bureau headquarters. During the conversation, they learned Hazmi and Mihdhar were named on Flight 77s manifest. One analyst on the line ran the pairs names through commercial databases, quickly finding them and their home address listed in San Diegos local phone directory. It turned out they had been living with an FBI informant.

CS-12 soon contacted Corsi regarding information on the hijackers. She responded by providing a photograph from the same surveillance operation that produced the three pictures presented at the June 2001 meeting between Alec Station and FBI agents; they depicted Walid bin Attash, a lead suspect in Al Qaedas 1998 East Africa US Embassy bombings and its attack on the USS Cole.

Corsi was unable to explain why the photo was not shown to FBI agents earlier. If it had been, CS-12 claims they would have immediately linked Hazmi and Mihdhar to bin Attash, which would have shifted from an intelligence based investigation into a criminal investigation. The FBIs New York field office could have then devoted its full resources to finding the hijackers before the fateful day of September 11, 2001.

Alec Station operatives fail upwards

Alec Stations tireless efforts to protect its Al Qaeda assets raises the obvious question of whether Hazmi and Mihdhar, and possibly other hijackers, were in effect working for the CIA on the day of 9/11.

The real motives behind the CIAs stonewalling may never be known. But it appears abundantly clear that Alec Station did not want the FBI to know about or interfere in its secret intelligence operation. If the units recruitment of Hazmi and Mihdhar was purely dedicated to information gathering, rather than operational direction, it is incomprehensible that the FBI had not been apprised of it, and was instead actively misdirected.

Several FBI sources consulted by Canestraro speculated that the CIAs desperation to penetrate Al Qaeda prompted it to grant Alec Station the power to recruit assets, and pressured it to do so. But if this were truly the case, then why did Langley refuse the opportunity to send Aukai Collins  a proven deep cover asset who had infiltrated several Islamist gangs  to penetrate bin Ladens network in Afghanistan?

One alternative explanation is that Alec Station, a powerful rogue CIA team answerable and accountable to no one, sought to infiltrate the terror group for its own sinister purposes, without the authorization and oversight usually required by Langley in such circumstances. Given that Collins was a joint asset shared with the FBI, he could not be trusted to participate in such a sensitive black operation.

No member of Alec Station has been punished in any way for the supposed intelligence failures that allowed 9/11 to go ahead. In fact, they have been rewarded. Richard Blee, the units chief at the time of the attacks, and his successor Alfreda Frances Bikowsky, both joined the CIAs operations division, and became highly influential figures in the so-called war on terror. Corsi, for her part, was promoted at the FBI, eventually rising to the rank of Deputy Assistant Director for Intelligence.

In a perverse twist, the Senate Intelligence Committees report on the CIAs torture program found that Bikowsky had been a key player in the agencys black site machinations, and one of their chief public apologists. It is increasingly clear that the program was specifically concerned with eliciting false testimony from suspects in order to justify and expand the US war on terror.

The publics understanding of the 9/11 attacks is heavily informed by testimonies delivered by CIA torture victims under the most extreme duress imaginable. And Bikowsky, a veteran of the Alec Station that ran cover for at least two would-be 9/11 hijackers, had been in charge of interrogating the alleged perpetrators of the attacks.

The veteran FBI deep cover agent Aukai Collins concluded his memoir with a chilling reflection which was only reinforced by Don Canestraros bombshell declaration:

I was very mistrustful about the fact that bin Ladens name was mentioned literally hours after the attack I became very skeptical about anything anybody said about what happened, or who did it. I thought back to when I was still working for them and we had the opportunity to enter Bin Ladens camp. Something just hadnt smelled rightTo this day Im unsure who was behind September 11, nor can I even guess Someday the truth will reveal itself, and I have a feeling that people wont like what they hear.

Read more at: TheGrayzone.com
(Natural News) There has been extensive discussion in the past couple of years within alternative media circles about the dangers of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs); a currency framework very similar to blockchain based products like bitcoin but directly controlled by central bankers.

(Article by Brandon Smith republished from BirchGold.com)

CDBCs are a threat that some analysts including myself have been writing about for more than a decade, so its good to finally see the issue being addressed more in the mainstream.

The economics of enslavement

The Orwellian nature of CBDCs cannot be overstated.

In a cashless society people would be dependent on digital products for exchanging goods and labor, and this would of course mean the end of all privacy in trade. Basically, everything you buy or sell or work for in your life would be recorded, and this lack of anonymity could easily be used to stifle your freedoms.

For example, say you like to eat steak regularly, but the green government decides to list red meat as a health risk and a climate change risk, due to carbon emissions from cows. They determine by your purchase history (which they now have full access to) that you have contributed more carbon pollution than most people by eating red meat often. They declare that you must pay a retroactive carbon tax on your past purchases of red meat. Not only that, but your insurance company sends you a letter indicating that you are now a risk and they cut off your health coverage.

Other products you might consume and services you use can be tracked to create a psychological profile on you, which could then become a factor in determining your social credit score as they do often in China.

Maybe you refuse or forgot to purchase your annual mRNA booster shot, and the tracking algorithm makes a note of this. Now you are under suspicion for being anti-vax and your social credit score plummets, cutting you off from various public venues. Maybe you are even fired from your job.

In the worst case scenario, though, economic access is the greatest oppressive tool.

With CBDCs in place and no physical cash in existence, your savings will never truly be yours and you never be able to hold your purchasing power in your hands.

The means of exchange would be firewalled by the banks. Any (or all) government agencies would be able to freeze your ability to transact.

If one day you get angry about a particular government policy or a stupid thing a politician says, and openly call the system corrupt in public? The Bureau of Tolerance in Public Discourse could simply suspend your access to your digital money Temporarily, of course. Only until you submit and change your tune  if its your first offense.

Repeat offenders might be required to attend a Sensitivity Training Boot Camp  at your own expense, of course! With CDBCs, any government bureaucrat could not only prevent you from making any purchases, they could also allow you to only make specific purchases, like a train ticket to Sensitivity Training Boot Camp where youd spend eight to twelve weeks being reeducated in order to regain your rights to buy food.

This is every authoritarians dream come true.

Imagine this power even in the hands of a benevolent leader! It would be so easy to nudge citizens to live healthier, more productive lives (In fact, in China, one of the documented uses of their combination social credit score and cashless transactions is denying individuals the ability to buy junk food because theyre considered to be overweight.)

In the hands of a callous, ruthless government? Much, much worse.

CBDCs give government bureaucrats the ability to starve their political opponents with algorithmic precision. It would be a new world of technocratic oppression  allowing ?????????????? or dekulakization of individuals or entire regions at the push of a button. At any time, for any reason.

Imagine living under the threat of possible liquidation every single day for the rest of your life.

This power that Stalin or Hitler or Chairman Mao could only dream of has only become possible relatively recently. Over the past few years, the combination of powerful computing, unimaginably advanced data analysis and extraction techniques and universal spying devices (also known as smartphones) have created the opportunity for autocrats to create the ultimate tool of control and oppression.

That opportunity is rapidly becoming a reality.

Project Icebreaker

Its important to understand that central bankers are moving at breakneck speed to develop and introduce digital currencies. Its not a matter of experimentation, they already have these systems ready to implement. In my investigations of various CBDC programs and how quickly they are progressing I came across an interesting program called Project Icebreaker managed and developed by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).

For those not aware, the BIS is a globalist institution with a clandestine past known as the central bank of central banks. It is the policy-making hub for most of the central banks in the world. If you ever wondered how it was possible for so many national central banks to operate in tandem with each other instead of in the interests of their home countries, the BIS is the answer. In other words, organizations like the Federal Reserve are not necessarily loyal to Americans or to American officials, they are loyal to the dictates of the BIS.

The BIS is at the forefront of the CDBC movement. Theyve funded a vast array of projects to test and refine CBDC technologies for some time. Right now, the BIS estimate that at least 81 central banks around the world are in the process of introducing their very own CDBC.

Now, there are only 195 countries in the whole world, and more than 2/3 of them are pursuing this freedom-destroying, autocrats-dream-come-true.

Project Icebreaker in particular grabbed my interest for a number of reasons. The BIS describes the project as a foreign exchange clearing house for Retail CBDCs (retail CBDCs are digital currencies used by the regular public and businesses), enabling the currencies to be traded from country to country quickly and efficiently. This is accomplished using the Icebreaker Hub, a BIS controlled mechanism which facilitates data transfers for an array of transactions and connects banks to other banks.

Read more at: BirchGold.com
(Natural News) Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will bankroll up to half the cost of mine development and smelting projects for lithium and other important minerals by Japanese companies.

According to an April 23 report by Nikkei Asia, METI is targeting several elements  namely lithium, manganese, nickel, cobalt, graphite and rare earth metals. The ministrys initiative seeks to obtain essential raw materials used in the production of electric vehicles (EVs). The raw materials targeted by METI are used for lithium-ion batteries and permanent magnets used in high-performance engines.

Through the initiative, Japan plans to diversify its supply network as it currently depends on countries like China for several important minerals. Support will be given through the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security, which will be drawing from 105.8 billion ($788 million) already allotted for related expenses.

Projects to be funded under the METI scheme include geological surveys that will determine the profitability and quality of mines, mine development and smelting operations. The development of technologies that enhance productivity and decrease costs in the smelting process are also encompassed.

Companies receiving the subsidies will be required to keep operations for at least five years from the beginning of mining and the smelting process. A provision will also require a certain amount of the output to be supplied to Japan. In the event of a supply crisis, participating corporations will be called on to make every effort to give the total amount. (Related: Lithium supply not large enough to not meet ambitious global EV deadlines, mining CEO warns.)

Japan does not want to depend on China for EV battery materials

Consulting firm McKinsey & Co. noted that worldwide demand for lithium-ion batteries for EVs and plug-in hybrid cars will increase to 4,700 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in 2030  almost seven times the 2022 level. Given this, the demand for critical minerals used in EV batteries, electronics and solar panels is expected to soar.

Industry stakeholders are worried about the growing reliance on a few nations for strategic raw materials. For example, China supplies between 60 to 70 percent of lithium and cobalt processing for battery cathode materials per the International Energy Agency. China also supplies 70 percent of graphite for battery anode materials, and is also responsible for nearly all the rare-earth mineral processing in the world.

Back in 2010, China temporarily stopped exports of rare-earth materials to Japan. The export ban stemmed from a territorial conflict over the Senkaku Islands  which are claimed by Japan, China and Taiwan. The resulting supply shortage interrupted the Japanese manufacturing industry and caused prices to soar.

Determined not to repeat this mistake, the Japanese government is aiming for a seven-fold hike in domestic battery production. It aims for an annual 150 GWh in 2030, nearly seven times the current capacity. Securing those raw materials is critical to achieving that goal for Tokyo.

Follow GreenDeal.news for more news about lithium and rare-earth metals used for electric vehicles.

Watch this G News report about why Africa is critical to Chinas EV race with Western nations.

This video is from the Chinese taking down EVIL CCP channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Lithium production setback will hinder EV growth; locals revolt over lithium mining impacts on water supplies.

Electric vehicles performed WORSE in EPA estimates than gas-powered cars: The EV push is a RIGGED SCAM.

US, Japan sign trade agreement on minerals for electric vehicle batteries. Green energy components are almost all made in China, and many use minerals from dirty mining operations.

South American countries planning to create LITHIUM CARTEL.

Lithium batteries used in EVs and other green technology are anything but clean.

Sources include:

Mining.com

Asia.Nikkei.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) In anticipation of fake president Joe Bidens axing of Title 42, hordes of foreign nationals from all around the world are flying to Americas southern border so they can rush into the country illegally after its anticipated May 11 expiration.

One of the few remaining border controls still in place, Title 42 is a Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic-era provision invoked by President Donald Trump to ensure that federal immigration officials had the ability to quickly return millions of illegal aliens back into Mexico after being caught in the United States.

Biden is scheduled to put an end to Title 42 on May 11, and instead create a new catch-and-release pipeline scheme to do the exact opposite of Title 42. In essence, the Biden regime wants to make it as easy as possible for illegals to enter the country illicitly and embed themselves into American communities.

(Related: Check out our earlier coverage about the expiration of Title 42 and what it means for the future of illegal immigration into the U.S.)

Bidens new catch-and-release pipelines will fast-track illegal alien resettlement into the United States

One foreign national who spoke to KGTV in San Diego explained that he took three separate flights from Jamaica to end up in Tijuana, Mexico, located just south of California along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Once Title 42 is ended by Biden, this person hopes to get released into the U.S. interior through one of Bidens catch-and-release pipelines.

We just have to wait here, the foreign national is quoted as saying. We took a few planes to come here. We took three planes.

Just to be clear, the person who said this fully admits that he does not have a valid claim for asylum, meaning he is not a qualified migrant. His reasons for fleeing Jamaica with the intent of illegally resettling in the U.S. include rampant crime in his home country.

Bidens Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in the post-Title 42 era, is likely to funnel this person and many others like him straight into the U.S. where they will be allowed to resettle just about any place they wish  except for Marthas Vineyard and other wealthy enclaves, which have made it clear that illegals are not to be allowed in their posh communities.

A lot of us want to come here and make it better, come out of the violence, the man from Jamaica added. We dont want to go back home to the violence  I think its better here than in Jamaica where the violence is. They wont treat us that badly, I think. So, hopefully, Im right.

Other places from which planes are landing in Mexico to await Title 42s end include Ghana, Columbia, Haiti, and India. Some 15,000 people from Haiti alone are said to be waiting in Mexico for the opportunity to illegally enter and resettle through one of Bidens invasion pipelines.

Bidens DHS announced this week that it will be sending another 1,5000 U.S. troops to the southern border  not to carry out any law enforcement duties, just to be clear, but rather to help all these illegals enter the country illicitly as quickly as possible.

Biden wants to send troops to the border  not to secure it and enforce our immigration laws  but to process illegal immigrants faster, said Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.). Its a publicity stunt that does nothing to stop Joe Bidens border crisis.

Once Title 42 ends, it is expected that close to 400,000 people will illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border into the U.S. every single month until eventually the country is completely taken over by illegals.

More related news coverage can be found at InvasionUSA.news.

Sources for this article include:

Breitbart.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Russian leaders are calling for retaliation for Ukraines attempted drone assassination of President Vladimir Putin.

The drone strikes occurred early in the morning of Wednesday, May 3. The Kremlin claimed that the two drones, which were taken down with anti-drone radar systems, were part of a Ukrainian planned terrorist act meant to assassinate Putin. (Related: Two drones shot down right above the Kremlin during an alleged Ukrainian attempt to assassinate Putin.)

Ukraine, meanwhile, denied any involvement in the incident. President Volodymyr Zelensky, in a statement, claimed that his country does not conduct attacks outside of its borders. His presidential adviser, Mykhailo Podolyak, further suggested that either Russia struck itself with the drones in a false flag operation or the drone strike was conducted by local anti-Putin guerrillas.

In a recent episode of TruNews, Rick Wiles and Dr. Raymond Burkhart noted that it is Kyivs modus operandi to immediately deny any actions that occurred outside of Ukrainian-held territory. But, at the same time, they will also celebrate these incidents.

The Ukrainians denied that they hit the Crimean Bridge, and then they boasted about it. They did both, said Wiles, strongly suggesting that Kyiv may in fact be responsible for the drone strikes against the Kremlin. They issued an official denial, and then at the same time, they had various social media postings boasting that they hit the bridge.

Burkhart and Wiles said the same thing has occurred in this instance. Zelensky and various other leading Ukrainian officials have denied any involvement in the act. But, at the same time, the Ukrainian Postal Service has released a commemorative stamp featuring the Kremlin on fire with a drone in the air and a Ukrainian soldier outside of the Kremlins walls making a rude gesture.

Are they trolling [Russia]? Or has the Ukrainian Postal Service actually issued the stamp? Either way, theyre celebrating the attack, said Burkhart.

?Ukrainian postal service #Ukrposhta announced the launch of a new stamp after the night attack on the #Kremlin. pic.twitter.com/MDJGVNDGuV  KyivPost (@KyivPost) May 3, 2023

Russian leaders calling for Zelenskys assassination

In Russias official statement regarding the attack, the government said that it reserves the right to take retaliatory measures where and when it sees fit. The government has not explained what kind of retaliation it will conduct. But some Russian hardliners have noted that they want swift retribution, possibly against Zelensky himself in the form of his assassination.

One of the most prominent voices in favor of such an action is former President Dmitry Medvedev, a close ally of Putin, the leader of his party, United Russia, and current deputy chairman of the countrys Security Council.

In a message posted on his Telegram channel, Medvedev called for the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal.

After todays terrorist attack, there are no options left other than the physical elimination of Zelensky and his cabal, wrote Medvedev, who noted that Zelenskys survival at the end of the special military operation in Ukraine is not necessary for the Ukrainian government to submit to an unconditional surrender.

Hitler, as is known, did not sign [an unconditional surrender agreement] either, noted Medvedev. There will always be some substitute.

How far does that cabal go? Does that include Antony Blinken? Joe Biden? asked Wiles, referencing the vast amounts of aid the United States provides to the regime in Kyiv. How far does he consider the reach of the cabal? We dont know. But what we do know is that Medvedev said today, Theyre all going to die.'

Learn more about the dangerously escalating conflict in Ukraine at UkraineWitness.com.

Watch this episode of TruNews as host Rick Wiles and co-host Dr. Raymond Burkhart discuss how leading Russian politicians want revenge for Ukraines failed assassination attempt against Putin.

This video is from the channel TruNews on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev warns that the world is on the verge of a NUCLEAR WORLD WAR III.

Ukraine may have tried to ASSASSINATE Vladimir Putin using a kamikaze drone.

With Pandoras box opened, the rush to nuclear annihilation quickens: Russian citizens are calling on Putin to nuke western aggressors and then, 75 seconds and DC disappears.

Drone use is widening in Ukraine, bringing with it potential dawn of robotic killing machines.

Autonomous KILLER BOTS to dominate battlefields soon as war in Ukraine leads to significant advances in drone technology.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

Reuters.com

Twitter.com

TASS.com
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. At least 21 people drowned after a boat capsized off the coastal town of Tanur in the Malappuram district of India's southern state of Kerala, Reuters reported citing local authorities.

The boat, which was carrying about 40 inbound passengers, overturned as it was overcrowded, Abdul Nazar, Malappuram district's junior superintendent of police told Reuters.

The death toll was likely to rise as the boat was stuck in muddy waters and was being pulled out to rescue those trapped inside, Kerala's minister for fisheries and harbour development, V. Abdurahiman told reporters.

"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala," Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet.
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will hold a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on May 14 in Brussels, Financial Times reported citing officials with knowledge of preparations.

European Council president Charles Michel will host the meeting on Sunday, Financial Times reported.

The Brussels meeting is an important sign of progress, one of the three officials told Financial Times on condition of anonymity as it is not yet public, adding that the EU and US efforts were mutually reinforcing and complementary two-track processes.

There are also plans for the three leaders to hold another meeting on June 1 with German chancellor Olaf Scholz and French president Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the European Political Community summit in Moldova, two of the officials told Financial Times.
Qualcomm is acquiring fabless Israel-based automobile chip maker Autotalks in a bid to add safety features to its Snapdragon Digital Chassis product family and strengthen its semiconductor product portfolio for the booming car-to-cloud communications and autonomous-driving market.

The Snapdragon Digital Chassis product family is designed to provide assisted and autonomous driving technology, as well as in-car infotainment and cloud connectivity.

Autotalks has been working on vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications since 2009, Qualcomm noted in its announcement of the deal on Monday. The Israel-based company provides automotive dual-mode global V2X technology compatible with multiple V2X standards that are designed to reduce collisions and improve mobility, Qualcom said.

V2X technology is designed to enable vehicles to communicate with one another and their surrounding environment. V2X communication technologies play an increasingly important role as they become critical sensors for automotive safety systems, Qualcomm noted.

We have been investing in V2X research, development and deployment since 2017 and believe that as the automotive market matures, a standalone V2X safety architecture will be needed for enhanced road user safety, as well as smart transportation systems, Nakul Duggal, general manager for automotive technology, said in the Qualcomm announcement.

The financial terms of the deal were not revealed, but based on Qualcomm's market capitalization, which amounts to more than $120 billion, the Jerusalem Post estimated that Qualcomm paid $350 million to $400 million for the Israeli company. The $350 million-$400 million range for the deal was also cited by sources in a report by TechCrunch. Qualcomm said that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Autotalks, and that the transaction is subject to "customary closing conditions."

Last September, Qualcomm said that its automotive business pipeline had increased to $30 billion, up more than $10 billion in just two months, according to a Reuters report.

The company said the size of the automotive market that it is targeting could grow to as large as $100 billion by 2030.

Qualcomm has also announced an expanded partnership with Mercedes Benz Group AG, which will use the Snapdragon Cockpit for its in-car infotainment system from this year.
Ongoing US diplomatic efforts to keep Chinese-made equipment out of as many networks as possible appear to be bearing fruit, as Germany eyes a ban on Huawei and ZTE 5G equipment, which would follow in the footsteps of several other European nations.

Sweden, Norway, and the UK have already implemented bans on Chinese-made equipment, following the US line that such hardware poses a national security threat thanks Huawei and ZTEs close ties to the government in Beijing.

News of a prospective German ban was originally broken in March by German newspaper Die Zeit, citing government sources.

Yet Huawei, in particular, still has a substantial footprint in Europe. According to an analysis by John Strand, published in the Center for European Policy Analysis online journal Bandwidth, many countries still have Huawei equipment operating in their 5G networks. The percentage ranges from 100% (Cyprus) down to 17% in France, where authorities have imposed restrictions on where such equipment can be used. Germany, Italy, Ireland, Poland, Spain, Portugal, Holland, Austria, Switzerland and Finland, among others, also have substantial portions of their 5G networks operating on Huawei gear, according to Strands analysis.

EU changing stance on Huawei ban

The news that Germany could be the next to implement a ban represents something of a tipping point for Huaweis status in Europe. While some parts of Europe have been resistant to US pressure on the issue, the EU itself, along with prominent member nations like Germany, seem to be changing course. As early as 2019, the European Commission issued a report detailing the dangers of interference by state actors in 5G networks, which was widely interpreted as a warning about suppliers backed by the Chinese government.

Some of that may have to do with a change in US leadership, as countries reluctant to take direction from the administration of US President Donald Trump  who disparaged NATO and oversaw a cooling of relations between the US and EU  find somewhat more credibility from President Bidens government. According to IDC senior research director Len Padilla, its not something that would change policies directly, but it may still have an effect.

Most EU governments are readier to take the Biden administration more seriously than the Trump administration, he said. If they think theres a direction the Biden administration takes, they think theres probably a reason for that.

The potential for interference in the network is widely acknowledged, even by countries whose networks still use Huawei gear. But other issues make outright bans a thornier question. According to Bruce Schneier, a noted cybersecurity expert and faculty member at Harvard, net costs make it attractive for network operators to continue to use Huawei  and unattractive to replace.

Its all fun and games until the domestic part costs three times as much, he said. Security is not going to trump price, and it has to  if you want security, it costs and theres no way around it.

Geopolitics affects tech supply chain

The West seems to have arrived at that realization late, although measures like the CHIPS and Science Act in the US and similar laws going into effect in Europe indicate that the lesson has been learned. The idea behind those is to build up domestic chip manufacturing capability, in an effort to prevent supply chain-based issues  including those related to geopolitical issues such as the current US-China semiconductor trade war  from happening in the future. Nevertheless, according to Schneier, theyre unlikely to solve that problem quickly or on their own.

As long as labor laws are what they are, domestic alternatives are going to cost more, he said.

The issue isnt so much the potential for the Chinese government to spy on national networks using Huawei gear, according to Schneier. Thats already commonplace, and Western governments do it as well, he said. The real concern is the use of compromised networking equipment to degrade western networks in the event of armed conflict.

The worry is that they can shut everything down, so if China invades Taiwan, they can degrade those networks, according to Schneier. Thats the real risk, and you can do that undetectably.

Rip-and-replace cost complicates potential Huawei ban

The issue of costs complicates the European calculus on potential Huawei bans both for new networks and for existing ones. Given the widespread presence of the companys equipment in EU nations, the rip-and-replace costs associated with any ban may make [governments] think twice, according to Padilla.

I dont know how much funding there would be for rip-and-replace, he said. It depends on their economy  it would affect an operator in Spain more than in Germany, for example.

Nevertheless, US-led pressure against Huawei appears to be bearing fruit. According to a report from Politico, the company has largely ceded the Five Eyes countries (US, UK, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia) as well as India, and has implemented cuts and consolidations across its marketing and lobbying efforts in Europe. Recently, reports emerged that the US and EU have jointly urged Malaysia to avoid using Huawei gear in an upcoming 5G network. And one source who did not want to speak on the record said that Huawei appears to be pivoting to the enterprise market, away from the more heavily regulated telecoms sector.

Although the security issues raised by both sides of this ongoing trade war are quite real  Schneier noted that China has banned Symantec, whose enteprise cloud offers data secuirty capabilities, for similar reasons  both he and Padilla agree that that geopolitics, rather than technology, are at its heart.

My opinion is that the concerns are probably more political than technological, said Padilla. Certainly, its possible for any device vendor, be it Huawei or Cisco, to put things in the device that could potentially compromise some kind of security, but Im not privy to any kind of information that shows that Huawei is doing that.

Its all xenophobia, said Schneier. Its the tip of a very complex iceberg.
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. 451,850 tourists visited Armenia in the first three months of 2023  81,2% more than in 2022s Q1, according to official data released by the Statistical Committee.

Most of the tourists  237,040  are citizens of Russia, followed by Armenian citizens living abroad  74,186.

53,707 citizens of Georgia and 25,458 citizens of Iran also visited Armenia in the reporting period.

Furthermore, visits from Turkey grew more than twice  with 2,712 citizens of Turkey having visited Armenia in January-March (2,2 times more than last year).
By PTI

MUMBAI: Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan said his mother was recently diagnosed with cancer but her "never-give-up attitude" helped her win the battle.

In an Instagram post on Friday evening, the actor said his family felt "helpless beyond despair" after his mother Mala's diagnosis.

"Some time ago during this month the Big C - 'Cancer' sneakily crept in and tried to rattle the lives of our family! We were frazzled and helpless beyond despair! (sic)" Aaryan wrote alongside a picture with his mother.

"But thanks to the willpower, resilience and never-give-up attitude of this fierce soldier - My Mom, we turned to the Bigger C- 'Courage' and marched with all our might and won the dark but destined to win war," he added.

Some time ago during this month the Big C - Cancer sneakily crept in and tried to rattle the lives of our family !

We were frazzled and helpless beyond despair! But thanks to the willpower, resilience and never give up attitude of this fierce soldier - My Mom,

we turned to pic.twitter.com/lIM25YDpA6  Kartik Aaryan (@TheAaryanKartik) May 5, 2023

The "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2" actor said the tough time taught him about the importance of family.

"What it taught us eventually and continues to teach us every day, is that there's no superpower bigger than the love and support of your family! #SuperHero #CancerWarrior," the actor said.

On the work front, Aaryan will next be seen in "Satyaprem Ki Katha" and the sequel to his 2022 blockbuster "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2".

MUMBAI: Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan said his mother was recently diagnosed with cancer but her "never-give-up attitude" helped her win the battle. In an Instagram post on Friday evening, the actor said his family felt "helpless beyond despair" after his mother Mala's diagnosis. "Some time ago during this month the Big C - 'Cancer' sneakily crept in and tried to rattle the lives of our family! We were frazzled and helpless beyond despair! (sic)" Aaryan wrote alongside a picture with his mother.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "But thanks to the willpower, resilience and never-give-up attitude of this fierce soldier - My Mom, we turned to the Bigger C- 'Courage' and marched with all our might and won the dark but destined to win war," he added. Some time ago during this month the Big C - Cancer sneakily crept in and tried to rattle the lives of our family ! We were frazzled and helpless beyond despair! But thanks to the willpower, resilience and never give up attitude of this fierce soldier - My Mom, we turned to pic.twitter.com/lIM25YDpA6  Kartik Aaryan (@TheAaryanKartik) May 5, 2023 The "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2" actor said the tough time taught him about the importance of family. "What it taught us eventually and continues to teach us every day, is that there's no superpower bigger than the love and support of your family! #SuperHero #CancerWarrior," the actor said. On the work front, Aaryan will next be seen in "Satyaprem Ki Katha" and the sequel to his 2022 blockbuster "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2".
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Armenia exported goods worth over $1,6 billion in the first three months of 2023  2,3 times more than in Q1 of 2022, according to official data released by the Statistical Committee.

Precious and semi-precious stones, precious metals and related goods amount to the bulk of the exports.

Imports amounted to more than $2,5 billion  a 89,1% growth compared to the same period of last year.

Overall, Armenias foreign and mutual trade amounted to more than $4,2 billion  twice more than in 2022 Q1.

Russia was the top export destination, with exports totaling over $838 million (4,5 times more compared to 2022 Q1).

The second top export destination in Q1 2023 was the UAE with over $288 million in exports (13,2 times increase). Goods worth over $100 million were exported to the Netherlands (80,5% growth).

Overall, Armenian exports to EEU member states amounted to more than $878 million, while exports to EU countries totaled more than $185 million.

Most of the exports (over $382 million) were precious and semi-precious stones, precious metals and related goods (jewelry and other products made from precious and semi-precious stones, precious metals ), which is a 4-time growth compared to the same period of last year. The second most-exported goods are vehicles, equipment and mechanisms (over $270 million  a nearly 17-time growth). Some $208,4 million of food products (53,3% growth) were also exported in Q1.
By PTI

JAIPUR: A MiG 21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed on a house in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, leaving three women dead and as many others injured on the ground, police said.

The pilot ejected from the plane and is undergoing treatment at the Suratgarh military hospital, IG, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said.

The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, he said "Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.

In a statement, the IAF said, "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning".

WATCH:

"The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

The Suratgarh Air Force station is in Ganganagar district which is close to Hanumangarh.

#WATCH | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. Two civilian women died and a man was injured in the incident, the pilot sustained minor injuries. pic.twitter.com/z4BZBsECVV  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

SP, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed on the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur.

Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said, adding three people were also injured.

According to initial reports, the house of Ratti Ram was completely damaged besides some nearby houses.

A local resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashes on the house of Ratti Ram and wood stored in the house caught fire.

"Local people immediately started efforts to douse flames with the help of water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the local resident told reporters in Hanumangarh.

Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.

JAIPUR: A MiG 21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed on a house in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, leaving three women dead and as many others injured on the ground, police said. The pilot ejected from the plane and is undergoing treatment at the Suratgarh military hospital, IG, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said. The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, he said "Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In a statement, the IAF said, "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning". WATCH: "The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said. The Suratgarh Air Force station is in Ganganagar district which is close to Hanumangarh. #WATCH | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. Two civilian women died and a man was injured in the incident, the pilot sustained minor injuries. pic.twitter.com/z4BZBsECVV  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023 SP, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed on the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur. Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said, adding three people were also injured. According to initial reports, the house of Ratti Ram was completely damaged besides some nearby houses. A local resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashes on the house of Ratti Ram and wood stored in the house caught fire. "Local people immediately started efforts to douse flames with the help of water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the local resident told reporters in Hanumangarh. Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. One of the two Azerbaijani servicemen who crossed into Armenia last month and was subsequently arrested and charged with illegal border crossing and arms smuggling was found guilty on all charges by the Syunik Court of General Jurisdiction on May 4.

The Azerbaijani serviceman, Aghshin Babirov, had plead guilty, the prosecution announced Monday.

Babirov was sentenced to 11 years, 6 months and 15 days imprisonment.

The second serviceman, Hussein Akhundov, is also charged with killing the guard of the Zangezur Copper and Molybdenum Combine in Syunik. The criminal investigation into Akhundovs case continues.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Congress has accused the Election Commission of "bias" over its notice on the party's "corruption rate card" advertisements targeting the BJP government in Karnataka and said its leaders are held to a standard that seems reserved only for the Opposition.

Despite the Congress bringing to the EC's notice on numerous occasions the "brazen and repeated" violations of electoral guidelines by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, the commission has not issued one notice or condemnation, the Congress said on Sunday.

In the Congress' "preliminary response", party leader and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi also said the 24-hour window provided by the EC for responding to the notice was insufficient with the Karnataka assembly poll campaign drawing to a close.

The EC had on Saturday issued a notice to the Karnataka Congress over its "corruption rate card" advertisements published in newspapers in the run-up to the May 10 state polls and sought "empirical evidence" to prove its allegations by Sunday evening.

The notice was issued following a complaint lodged by the BJP.

The Congress had released a set of posters and advertisements listing "corruption rates" in the state between 2019 and 2023 while terming the BJP government a "trouble engine".

"The actions of the Commission are prima facie violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which provide a fundamental guarantee against arbitrariness in administrative action as well as against bias, official acts of mala fide, violations of natural justice and which provide the most vital guarantee of equality," the Congress said.

"It is clear that the Indian National Congress is being subject to unfair and unequal treatment by the Commission. Leaders of the INC are held to a standard that seems to be reserved only for the opposition. They are asked to explain themselves for the slightest perceived offence and their advertisements are flagged for content that is far tamer than the ones allowed for the BJP," it said.

The EC can never allow itself to be seen as an organisation that turns a "Nelsonial blind eye" to egregious violations by the ruling party, it said.

"This proactive zeal seems to be reserved solely for the Opposition, as we have through numerous detailed, documented and numbered representations sought to bring to the Commission's attention the brazen, shocking, egregious, heinous and repeated violations of almost every single electoral guideline, by Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Amit Shah, Shri J P Nadda, Shri Adityanath as well as other BJP leaders," it said.

"Yet not one show cause notice has been issued for these deliberate violations. Forget pursuing criminal proceedings, not one condemnation or censure has been issued to name and shame these individuals by the Commission," it added.

The Congress said this might be the first time in history that the EC has summoned a national party to provide evidence in support of a political advertisement.

"The Election Commission, with its vast powers of superintendence, could have chosen to investigate the allegations, evidence of which is available in the public domain but instead it has chosen to go after the party that is shedding light on the rampant corruption plaguing the people of the state," it said.

It said BJP MLA Yatnal, who publicly spoke about the chief minister's post being "sold" for Rs 2,500 crore, has been renominated as a candidate by the BJP and several party legislators have been pointing out through public statements the issue of rampant corruption in the Basavaraj Bommai-led Karnataka government, the Congress said.

Even the Contractors Association of Karnataka, comprising 50,000 contractors, has publicly spoken about the "40 per cent commission being demanded by the Bommai government" and even named a number of BJP legislators, it said.

The opposition party, however, pointed out that its political advertisement under scrutiny has no mention of the BJP nor does it name any person or candidate belonging to the said party.

The Congress said further that the time provided by the EC for filing its response was "insufficient".

"While we are submitting this preliminary response out of our sheer regard for the constitutional role of the ECI, we reserve both the right to be heard in person as well as the right to submit additional documents and pleadings as there are barely 24 hours left for the close of campaigning," it said.

"The Indian National Congress, being a responsible national political party, will also be pleased to collate the said evidence for you and present them provided that we are given reasonable time and an in-person hearing," it said.

NEW DELHI: The Congress has accused the Election Commission of "bias" over its notice on the party's "corruption rate card" advertisements targeting the BJP government in Karnataka and said its leaders are held to a standard that seems reserved only for the Opposition. Despite the Congress bringing to the EC's notice on numerous occasions the "brazen and repeated" violations of electoral guidelines by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, the commission has not issued one notice or condemnation, the Congress said on Sunday. In the Congress' "preliminary response", party leader and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi also said the 24-hour window provided by the EC for responding to the notice was insufficient with the Karnataka assembly poll campaign drawing to a close.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The EC had on Saturday issued a notice to the Karnataka Congress over its "corruption rate card" advertisements published in newspapers in the run-up to the May 10 state polls and sought "empirical evidence" to prove its allegations by Sunday evening. The notice was issued following a complaint lodged by the BJP. The Congress had released a set of posters and advertisements listing "corruption rates" in the state between 2019 and 2023 while terming the BJP government a "trouble engine". "The actions of the Commission are prima facie violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which provide a fundamental guarantee against arbitrariness in administrative action as well as against bias, official acts of mala fide, violations of natural justice and which provide the most vital guarantee of equality," the Congress said. "It is clear that the Indian National Congress is being subject to unfair and unequal treatment by the Commission. Leaders of the INC are held to a standard that seems to be reserved only for the opposition. They are asked to explain themselves for the slightest perceived offence and their advertisements are flagged for content that is far tamer than the ones allowed for the BJP," it said. The EC can never allow itself to be seen as an organisation that turns a "Nelsonial blind eye" to egregious violations by the ruling party, it said. "This proactive zeal seems to be reserved solely for the Opposition, as we have through numerous detailed, documented and numbered representations sought to bring to the Commission's attention the brazen, shocking, egregious, heinous and repeated violations of almost every single electoral guideline, by Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Amit Shah, Shri J P Nadda, Shri Adityanath as well as other BJP leaders," it said. "Yet not one show cause notice has been issued for these deliberate violations. Forget pursuing criminal proceedings, not one condemnation or censure has been issued to name and shame these individuals by the Commission," it added. The Congress said this might be the first time in history that the EC has summoned a national party to provide evidence in support of a political advertisement. "The Election Commission, with its vast powers of superintendence, could have chosen to investigate the allegations, evidence of which is available in the public domain but instead it has chosen to go after the party that is shedding light on the rampant corruption plaguing the people of the state," it said. It said BJP MLA Yatnal, who publicly spoke about the chief minister's post being "sold" for Rs 2,500 crore, has been renominated as a candidate by the BJP and several party legislators have been pointing out through public statements the issue of rampant corruption in the Basavaraj Bommai-led Karnataka government, the Congress said. Even the Contractors Association of Karnataka, comprising 50,000 contractors, has publicly spoken about the "40 per cent commission being demanded by the Bommai government" and even named a number of BJP legislators, it said. The opposition party, however, pointed out that its political advertisement under scrutiny has no mention of the BJP nor does it name any person or candidate belonging to the said party. The Congress said further that the time provided by the EC for filing its response was "insufficient". "While we are submitting this preliminary response out of our sheer regard for the constitutional role of the ECI, we reserve both the right to be heard in person as well as the right to submit additional documents and pleadings as there are barely 24 hours left for the close of campaigning," it said. "The Indian National Congress, being a responsible national political party, will also be pleased to collate the said evidence for you and present them provided that we are given reasonable time and an in-person hearing," it said.
Bansy Kalappa By

Express News Service

Decisive action will be taken against whosoever promotes enmity or hatred, as per law. We are against all kinds of fundamentalism, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge tells Bansy Kalappa, speaking on the ban on the Bajrang Dal, mentioned in the Congress manifesto, and a host of other issues.

With the Bajrang Dal ban, did the Congress concede full toss to the BJP in the slog overs?

Firstly, we have mentioned in our manifesto that whoever promotes enmity or hatred, decisive action will be taken against them, as per law. Secondly, antisocial elements have been accused of violence, including the death of one of BJPs own workers in Karnataka. Even when their own workers are affected, the BJP refused to take action. Recently, they ransacked a hotel in Shivamogga, former CM Yediyurappas home district. Police was forced to mediate, rather than act against moral policing. We are a progressive state and believe in the principles of Basavanna. In my earlier constituency, Gurmitkal, I had ensured we build a Hanuman temple in every village. Common people know the special place a Hanuman temple occupies. Congress is focused on creating a peaceful environment for our youth. Do we expect foreign investment to come to Tier 2 cities where rule of law doesnt apply?

Is the poisonous snake comment going to recoil on Congress?

I have been in public life for almost 60 years, and consistently fought the divisive ideology of the BJP and RSS. My fight is never personal. I was referring to the polarising and divisive ideology of the BJP and RSS, and clarified it at the next rally. People of Karnataka and elsewhere understood it, but the Prime Minister chose to cry about it instead of talking about real issues. But his attempt to gain political mileage didnt work.

PM Modi said Congress is opposing The Kerala Story...

The PM is making irrelevant and baseless comments. He has all the time to watch a movie and take up election campaigns, despite many issues of national security that need urgent attention. Also, women wrestlers who won Olympic medals have been sitting on protest for months, but he has no time. The NCRB has said 40,000 women have gone missing from Gujarat in the past five years.

KPCC president DK Shivakumar said he would like to work under you as chief minister. Does it mean you plan to return to the state?

The party has entrusted me with a bigger responsibility and thats my focus. We have to win this election. There is no tug of war for the CMs position, as imagined or desired by the BJP and media. On the contrary, I would like to commend the state leadership for taking on the election campaign in a unified manner.

There have been complaints about the misuse of ED, IT and other Central agencies in this election. Does it bother you?

India has seen the most blatant misuse of institutions and agencies over the past nine years. There are clearly two sets of rules -- one for those in power and another for opposition leaders. The moment a person defects to the BJP, all cases against that person are put on hold. Even the media is silent about the abuse of officers and institutions for political vendetta. One day, this government will go but the institutions and officers will still be around. Our challenge will be to make them objective and apolitical again.

Congress candidates are complaining about rebels...

Your question is surprising, because the situation on the ground is very different. Its the BJP which is facing a huge rebel problem. Even the PM was making calls to people to prevent rebellion.

How will these polls impact elections due later this year in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh?

Any win is a great boost for not just our people, but also our fight against fascists. It motivates the leaders and cadre, and boosts our morale in other states. Karnataka will also give us a great chance to showcase our governance model.

How will the polls impact your tenure as AICC president?

Every president who occupied this prestigious office before me or those after me, will want as many victories as possible. During Soniajis tenure, Congress numbers rose from just 3 states to 18 states.

Rahul Gandhi said a large majority is necessary. Is Congress scared about Operation Kamala?

No Congressman or woman is scared of anything. The word fear doesnt exist in our dictionary, and certainly not in Rahuljis. We are asking for a comfortable majority so the government remains stable and we can comfortably roll out all our poll promises.

Are you working on taking advantage of Lingayats disaffection for BJP?

Congress doesnt address or engage with people on the basis of their community or religion.

Decisive action will be taken against whosoever promotes enmity or hatred, as per law. We are against all kinds of fundamentalism, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge tells Bansy Kalappa, speaking on the ban on the Bajrang Dal, mentioned in the Congress manifesto, and a host of other issues. With the Bajrang Dal ban, did the Congress concede full toss to the BJP in the slog overs? Firstly, we have mentioned in our manifesto that whoever promotes enmity or hatred, decisive action will be taken against them, as per law. Secondly, antisocial elements have been accused of violence, including the death of one of BJPs own workers in Karnataka. Even when their own workers are affected, the BJP refused to take action. Recently, they ransacked a hotel in Shivamogga, former CM Yediyurappas home district. Police was forced to mediate, rather than act against moral policing. We are a progressive state and believe in the principles of Basavanna. In my earlier constituency, Gurmitkal, I had ensured we build a Hanuman temple in every village. Common people know the special place a Hanuman temple occupies. Congress is focused on creating a peaceful environment for our youth. Do we expect foreign investment to come to Tier 2 cities where rule of law doesnt apply? Is the poisonous snake comment going to recoil on Congress? I have been in public life for almost 60 years, and consistently fought the divisive ideology of the BJP and RSS. My fight is never personal. I was referring to the polarising and divisive ideology of the BJP and RSS, and clarified it at the next rally. People of Karnataka and elsewhere understood it, but the Prime Minister chose to cry about it instead of talking about real issues. But his attempt to gain political mileage didnt work. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); PM Modi said Congress is opposing The Kerala Story... The PM is making irrelevant and baseless comments. He has all the time to watch a movie and take up election campaigns, despite many issues of national security that need urgent attention. Also, women wrestlers who won Olympic medals have been sitting on protest for months, but he has no time. The NCRB has said 40,000 women have gone missing from Gujarat in the past five years. KPCC president DK Shivakumar said he would like to work under you as chief minister. Does it mean you plan to return to the state? The party has entrusted me with a bigger responsibility and thats my focus. We have to win this election. There is no tug of war for the CMs position, as imagined or desired by the BJP and media. On the contrary, I would like to commend the state leadership for taking on the election campaign in a unified manner. There have been complaints about the misuse of ED, IT and other Central agencies in this election. Does it bother you? India has seen the most blatant misuse of institutions and agencies over the past nine years. There are clearly two sets of rules -- one for those in power and another for opposition leaders. The moment a person defects to the BJP, all cases against that person are put on hold. Even the media is silent about the abuse of officers and institutions for political vendetta. One day, this government will go but the institutions and officers will still be around. Our challenge will be to make them objective and apolitical again. Congress candidates are complaining about rebels... Your question is surprising, because the situation on the ground is very different. Its the BJP which is facing a huge rebel problem. Even the PM was making calls to people to prevent rebellion. How will these polls impact elections due later this year in MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh? Any win is a great boost for not just our people, but also our fight against fascists. It motivates the leaders and cadre, and boosts our morale in other states. Karnataka will also give us a great chance to showcase our governance model. How will the polls impact your tenure as AICC president? Every president who occupied this prestigious office before me or those after me, will want as many victories as possible. During Soniajis tenure, Congress numbers rose from just 3 states to 18 states. Rahul Gandhi said a large majority is necessary. Is Congress scared about Operation Kamala? No Congressman or woman is scared of anything. The word fear doesnt exist in our dictionary, and certainly not in Rahuljis. We are asking for a comfortable majority so the government remains stable and we can comfortably roll out all our poll promises. Are you working on taking advantage of Lingayats disaffection for BJP? Congress doesnt address or engage with people on the basis of their community or religion.
By PTI

KALABURAGI: Making an emotional appeal to voters on his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday asked them to take pride in the fact that he as a "bhoomi putra" of Karnataka has been made AICC president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name.

Stating that he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, Kharge said he would until his last breath continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests.

Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to "wipe out" Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a BJP candidate.

It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out "Kharge, his wife and children".

"It seems that it might have come into the minds of BJP leaders to finish me off. If not, who will have the courage to say that he wants to finish off Kharge and family? If he has to say it, some BJP leader should be behind him, or else it will not," Kharge said.

Addressing a public meeting here, he said, no one could finish him off easily.

"I have Babasaheb's Constitution to protect me, the people of Kalaburagi and Karnataka are behind me. Now after becoming AICC president, the people of the country are behind me. You may finish me and my family...If I go, someone else may emerge," he said.

Rathod rejected the charges outright and said, "It is all a lie. They are playing some fake audio. The Congress is leveling baseless allegations fearing defeat".

Further accusing the BJP of going around saying everywhere that they wanted to finish him off as he and his son are speaking against them, the AICC chief said, "Modi is also behaving similarly. Speak about me, why son? He is not to your level. Speak about me it's fine, I've been in politics for 52 years...but why my family?" Saying that he had lost his entire family once in his childhood and was left alone, he added, "I'm still alive and will continue to live with the blessings of the people."

"...let them do whatever they want, but I'm also strong. A man may live up to a hundred years or 90 years, but in India average life is 70 or 71. I'm already in my bonus period, I'm 81 years now. If I live, I may live for another eight or nine years, no worries. If you want to finish me off before that, finish if your problems will be resolved. I'm ready."

"But until I have my last breath, I will continue to fight for the poor and try to protect them. Until you (people) are with me, I have no fear," he added.

Kharge also urged the people of Kalaburagi to ensure that Congress won all seats in the region in "response" to the party making him its national president, suggesting that it was a matter of pride.

Pointing out that because of the blessings of the people of Kalaburagi he was in Parliament and had been in the Assembly, and worked in various capacities including Leader of Opposition, Kharge said though he lost the Lok Sabha polls, Sonia Gandhi had made him a Rajya Sabha member and then Leader of Opposition, and above all he has been made the AICC president.

"It is a matter of pride of Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), not mine," he said.

Stating that he may die someday, he said, "But Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) has got the post of Congress national president and saving it is in your hand, bringing respect to it is in your hands. Or else others will say Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) was made president but people there didn't even choose an MLA."

Kharge asked the people to ensure that Congress won all the seats in Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts.

"You should make sure Congress wins all 13 seats. Then I will get respect and also to those who made me president, and also to you, as I'm no one without you."

In 52 years, he had brought no bad name to his people, he said.

"I have fought against JD(S), BJP, Modi in Parliament, I have fought for justice."

Noting that he had gone to Gujarat for election campaigning, the AICC president said Modi there was urging people to vote for BJP as he was the "bhoomi putra" of Gujarat and Ahmedabad and requested them to save his dignity.

In the same way, Kharge said, he himself was seeking votes from his people in Kalaburagi and Karnataka.

"I want to tell Modi now that I'm the 'bhoomi putra' of Karnataka and Gulbarga (Kalaburagi). The right you have in Gujarat, I have here and I should get it. You have done nothing for my place, but I'm asking after working for my region. What have you done to seek votes here?" he asked.

KALABURAGI: Making an emotional appeal to voters on his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday asked them to take pride in the fact that he as a "bhoomi putra" of Karnataka has been made AICC president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name. Stating that he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, Kharge said he would until his last breath continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests. Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to "wipe out" Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a BJP candidate.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out "Kharge, his wife and children". "It seems that it might have come into the minds of BJP leaders to finish me off. If not, who will have the courage to say that he wants to finish off Kharge and family? If he has to say it, some BJP leader should be behind him, or else it will not," Kharge said. Addressing a public meeting here, he said, no one could finish him off easily. "I have Babasaheb's Constitution to protect me, the people of Kalaburagi and Karnataka are behind me. Now after becoming AICC president, the people of the country are behind me. You may finish me and my family...If I go, someone else may emerge," he said. Rathod rejected the charges outright and said, "It is all a lie. They are playing some fake audio. The Congress is leveling baseless allegations fearing defeat". Further accusing the BJP of going around saying everywhere that they wanted to finish him off as he and his son are speaking against them, the AICC chief said, "Modi is also behaving similarly. Speak about me, why son? He is not to your level. Speak about me it's fine, I've been in politics for 52 years...but why my family?" Saying that he had lost his entire family once in his childhood and was left alone, he added, "I'm still alive and will continue to live with the blessings of the people." "...let them do whatever they want, but I'm also strong. A man may live up to a hundred years or 90 years, but in India average life is 70 or 71. I'm already in my bonus period, I'm 81 years now. If I live, I may live for another eight or nine years, no worries. If you want to finish me off before that, finish if your problems will be resolved. I'm ready." "But until I have my last breath, I will continue to fight for the poor and try to protect them. Until you (people) are with me, I have no fear," he added. Kharge also urged the people of Kalaburagi to ensure that Congress won all seats in the region in "response" to the party making him its national president, suggesting that it was a matter of pride. Pointing out that because of the blessings of the people of Kalaburagi he was in Parliament and had been in the Assembly, and worked in various capacities including Leader of Opposition, Kharge said though he lost the Lok Sabha polls, Sonia Gandhi had made him a Rajya Sabha member and then Leader of Opposition, and above all he has been made the AICC president. "It is a matter of pride of Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), not mine," he said. Stating that he may die someday, he said, "But Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) has got the post of Congress national president and saving it is in your hand, bringing respect to it is in your hands. Or else others will say Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) was made president but people there didn't even choose an MLA." Kharge asked the people to ensure that Congress won all the seats in Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts. "You should make sure Congress wins all 13 seats. Then I will get respect and also to those who made me president, and also to you, as I'm no one without you." In 52 years, he had brought no bad name to his people, he said. "I have fought against JD(S), BJP, Modi in Parliament, I have fought for justice." Noting that he had gone to Gujarat for election campaigning, the AICC president said Modi there was urging people to vote for BJP as he was the "bhoomi putra" of Gujarat and Ahmedabad and requested them to save his dignity. In the same way, Kharge said, he himself was seeking votes from his people in Kalaburagi and Karnataka. "I want to tell Modi now that I'm the 'bhoomi putra' of Karnataka and Gulbarga (Kalaburagi). The right you have in Gujarat, I have here and I should get it. You have done nothing for my place, but I'm asking after working for my region. What have you done to seek votes here?" he asked.
Express News Service

Union home minister Amit Shah, in the last leg of a hectic campaign that saw him on the ground in all parts of Karnataka, is confident of the BJP bucking the trend of pendulum swings and returning to power in the state. In an exclusive interview with The New Indian Express, Shah takes questions on a variety of themes with his usual air of assured authority. But the bottom line was the crucial inflection point of the May 10 Assembly polls, and how winning it will ensure the partys political entrenchment in South India. Excerpts:

What is your assessment of the situation on the ground in Karnataka on the last leg of electioneering?

We will win a minimum of 15 seats more than the half-way mark (113). The reason for this is that, during the four years of our government, we have been implementing Modijis programmes on the ground successfully. That has created a whole class of beneficiaries of all Central government programmes. They are not being counted by those doing traditional political analysis based on castes, individuals and their clout. But I can see it very clearly in the meetings and public rallies across Karnataka.

Let me give you some numbers. The Jal Jeevan Mission, which provides tap water free of fluoride, has linked 43 lakh households. They will get water in their houses and women no longer have to walk with pots on their heads to fetch water. Similarly, toilets were built in around 48 lakh houses, which is a big source of succour for women. Four crore people got foodgrains free of cost, around 1.38 crore people got relief on healthcare expenditure with insurance, 37 lakh people got gas cylinders under Ujjwala and around four lakh people got houses. Even if you remove overlapping, the beneficiaries will by all means number around 70 lakh families. That is a big number. All traditional calculations that look at the movement of Vokkaligas or Lingayats or Kurubas will be proved wrong.

You are saying it will be social development, not economic or infrastructure development...

It is both social as well as economic development. If they had not got free foodgrains, a portion of their income would have been spent on purchasing food and the Rs 3-4 lakh saved on health insurance would have been spent on medicines and treatment. That saving is invested in doing something new. They got toilets, water and gas at home, and their health improved, which resulted in their empowerment and increased their self-confidence. Many major projects were also taken up. Take the New Mangaluru Port Authority, at Rs 3,800 crore; the 10-lane Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway, Rs 8,000 crore; Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway, Rs 17,000 crore; Bengaluru-Hyderabad Expressway, Rs 31,000 crore; Bidar-Kalaburgi-Bellari road, Rs 7,650 crore; South Indias first Vande Bharat train; and the Shivamogga and Kalaburagi airports.

So, you think welfare policies plus development will bring you back to power with a substantial majority? But why are the surveys not reflecting it?

I have been involved in all elections in the last nine years and all the surveys have first defeated us: because the club of thinkers and those who work on the ground are different classes. The club of thinkers defeats us, but the team that works on the ground ensures our victory.

You speak about welfare, social upliftment and Direct Benefit Transfers. You and the Prime Minister have also spoken very strongly against what he calls the revdi culture or system of bribing the voters to get support...

There is a fundamental difference between the two. We dont give cash every month. We have given them a gas (connection) and they will purchase gas. We have provided the electricity connection; they pay the bill. We have built toilets and they will maintain them. We provided tap water; they pay tax to the panchayat. We provided health insurance, not cash. We have empowered them, not bribed them. Giving facilities free of cost is revdi. We dont do that.

Many seniors were denied tickets this time and new faces were fielded. Was it not to beat anti-incumbency at the ground level?

Take a look at the last 10 elections. We have always changed around 30% of our candidates. There is nothing new in it.

Many senior leaders, including Jagadish Shettar and Laxman Savadi, left the party...

Shettar and Savadi left as the BJP is a party that takes a stand. Would they have left the party if we had given them tickets? That is not how the party operates. Savadi is an MLC till 2028. This Assembly will be up to 2028. Why should he contest polls? Why should another worker not contest, why should we do injustice to another worker? If you wanted to contest for the Assembly, you should not have taken the MLC ticket. And Shettar had himself decided he will not be part of Basavaraj Bommais ministry as he is a senior. What will he do being just an MLA? He has contested elections six times. Let other workers come up.

Shettar and Savadi say prominent Lingayat leaders were suppressed and BS Yediyurappa was sidelined...

No one sidelined Yediyurappa. He himself had told me that there is a system in the party. He had crossed the age and needed to be replaced (as CM). Eight months after that, the party replaced him. Even now, Yediyurappa is addressing six rallies a day.

Do you see any threat of the Lingayats moving away from the BJP?

No. Savadi and Shettar will lose by a big margin. Take it from me. Shettars margin of defeat will be double the margin of his victory (in the last election) as Hubli has always voted for the BJP and not any individual. Hubli is our fortress.

Why have you fielded ministers R Ashoka and V Somanna from two constituencies each? Dont you think fielding them from one segment each to take on senior Congress leaders would have sent a stronger message?

What is good for our party is an internal issue of our party and we have to make those decisions.

The trend in Karnataka is that it has not voted back a ruling party with a majority. Will the BJP be able to buck the trend?

That was also there in UP, Assam and Manipur, and we broke those records. That is our record and that is why we are confident.

Are you banking more on Modis charisma for bucking the trend or on development and performance?

How can you separate Modiji and BJP? The Congress started the tradition that the PM should not go to state elections as Manmohan Singh was not addressing rallies. They did it as people were not coming for their election rallies. Was Indiraji not going? Was Atalji not going? For 10 years, the Congress had a leader who was not addressing rallies. So they started saying the PM should not go to state elections. Why not? Isnt Karnataka part of India? It is the responsibility of the PM to interact with people during elections and explain his views, his partys views, and the development agenda. That is the duty of the PM. Not going is arrogance. That is why the PM goes and puts in more hard work than us.

ALSO READ| Karnataka elections: In a setback to BJP, Veerashaiva Lingayat forum extends support to Congress

But the opposition says Amit Shah and the PM had to come to Karnataka as the state government has failed

No, that is not true. We go to all states, even where we lost elections. We went to Odisha and we will go to Andhra Pradesh. For Congress, elections are just a means to gain power, but for us, it is a medium to present our ideology and programmes before the people. We explain our thinking, and our achievements.

Why shouldnt we go?

Do you think controversies on communal issues, such as those around hijab and halal, distracted from your development narrative?

Hijab and halal are not at all issues in this election. I am hearing it for the first time from you. Why are you bringing it up?

Your views on the Bajrang Dal ban proposal? Do you think it has helped you?

For us, it is not an issue to get votes. We have always opposed appeasement. No party should seek votes based on such policies. We think this is appeasement, so we are opposing it.

The Congress says the BJP government in Goa had banned the Sri Rama Sene in 2014 and asks what moral right do you have to oppose the Bajrang Dal ban now.

You need to have proof to ban any organisation. We banned PFI, so you say you will ban another organisation. That is not fair. We have been in power since 2014 and banned PFI only after adequate proof came of its involvement in anti-national activities. We stopped it when it had reached the first stage of terrorist activities. The court also upheld it.

The BJP often speak about the benefits of a double-engine government to seek votes. In a federal system, shouldnt the Centre and the state governments always be working for citizens as a double engine irrespective of which political parties are ruling at the Centre and the state?

I will give you a small example from Karnataka. When the Siddaramaiah government was here, the Centre had asked for a list of farmers for giving benefits under the PM Kisan Samman Yojana. They sent a list of 17 farmers! They were scared that if the benefits reach farmers, they will be happy with the BJP and Modiji. When Yediyurappa became the CM, they sent a list of 54 lakh farmers. That is the difference a double- engine government makes, and we are explaining that to the people.

The imposition of Hindi is one of the complaints against the BJP made by regional parties in Karnataka and other southern states. How do you respond to it?

This is propaganda against the BJP. I want to humbly ask you, as well as those behind such propaganda, one question: could all students take IAS/IPS exams in the regional language before the Modi government came in 2014? No. Now they can do it. For 70 years, you forced students from Karnataka to take exams in Hindi or English. We ensured that they can take exams in their mother tongue. That is the case with medical examinations as well. Even constables examinations can be taken in all scheduled languages. Where is the question of Hindi imposition? In fact, we have made arrangements that they need not depend on Hindi. You tell me, if a child who studied in Kannada medium writes exams in Hindi or English, how can he or she get a job? (The Congress) made such an arrangement that Kannada-medium students did not get jobs. We changed it. Now students can take exams in Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu and other languages.

ALSO READ| Public mood is in favour of BJP, no doubt over winning: Karnataka CM Bommai

Linguists do believe that a childs cognitive skills develop best if it learns in the mother tongue. But in a multilingual country like ours, what will be the link language?

People themselves will decide on the link language. There is no need to impose it on them. They will do whatever they feel is simple.

How important is this election, looking from the perspective of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls?

Winning or losing is part of elections. But for the BJP, it is a very important election as winning Karnataka means our Southern entry is assured. I strongly feel BJP governments will be formed in Karnataka and Telangana.

Do Tamil Nadu and Kerala remain challenging areas?

For us, the entire country was a challenging area. We did not have a single government in the Northeast. Now we have NDA governments in eight states. We were not in Uttar Pradesh, we won twice there. We won twice in Uttarakhand. We have performed well in Odisha. Eighteen Parliament members won from West Bengal. We also have 77 MLAs there, as well as the leader of the Opposition. It used to be just two MLAs. We are entering (all parts) and I hope it will happen soon in South India.

If the BJP comes back to power, will Basavaraj Bommai continue as CM or will it be decided after the elections?

Bommaiji is the CM now. You cannot decide on the CM when you have a CM. Also, we are facing the elections with Bommai as the CM.

In an election rally, you said there will be communal riots in Karnataka if the Congress comes to power. Why did you say so?

Look at the statistics. There were more communal riots during Congress rule. That is in the record, and I only spoke about the record. I said it is the Congresss history. Whenever the Congress came to power, there were communal riots.

The Congress is accusing the BJP of 40% corruption and also for allegedly misusing agencies to target political opponents. How do you respond to their allegations?

Both are contradictory. We have courts, police stations and agencies. Who filed a complaint about allegations of 40% bribe, and what is the outcome? It wont stick just by talking about it. As far as agencies are concerned, you can go to court. Why dont you go? Because there is a prima facie case. If you want a system in which no corruption cases should be registered against those in politics, you should include it in your election manifesto.

Opposition says the agencies mostly target them...

Look at the record from the Congresss time. A murder case was registered against me. I did not come out (to protest) wearing black clothes. I went to court. The court gave the verdict that it was a case of political vendetta and dismissed it. We have to fight in court. Cases were booked against Modiji too. They could not prove it. The question is, why dont they seek quashing of the ED (Enforcement Directorate) chargesheets? The ED makes a concrete case. If they say it is wrong, they should file an application seeking its quashing. Why go to trial? There is a provision to quash false cases. When a case was booked against me, I did not go to trial but sought its quashing. It was quashed. It went up to the Supreme Court.

The BJP manifesto promises the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Is it possible to do this in the state?

UCC can be done. UCC is on the concurrent list. NRC is a survey and the state has the right to survey its citizens.

ALSO READ| Karnataka polls: Battle royale in Varuna as Siddaramaiah locked in fierce fight with BJP's Somanna

Ahead of the 2024 polls, the Congress is trying to form an alliance of non-BJP parties. How do you look at it?

Its just propaganda. Tell me, how many people will come if Mamataji addresses a rally in UP? How will she help Akhilesh Yadav? What will happen if Chandrashekar Rao comes and supports Congress in Gujarat? What will happen if Stalinji campaigns for Congress in Karnataka? They are all leaders in their respective states (West Bengal, Telangana, Tamil Nadu) and we are fighting them in those states. Just coming on one platform will not make any difference in electoral possibilities. It will make a good photograph in newspapers, and they feel happy about it.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto has made undiplomatic remarks on Kashmir. Even internally, issues have been raised about J&K statehood and elections. What do you have to say?

Both issues are very clear. Elections will be conducted by the Election Commission and not the government. The commission is preparing electoral rolls. They are doing registration of people who left J&K because of the law and order situation and are living in different parts of the country. It is a laborious process. As far as the statehood question is concerned, I have said from day one in Parliament that after the elections, we agree to give statehood.

How is the situation in Manipur?

It is under control. The administration there is holding dialogues to build confidence on both sides. I am confident that it will be done.

The drug menace is proving to be a challenge for the ministry and the country...

We have taken the fight against drugs very seriously. We have a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. We have adopted a Whole of Government Approach. All states and all agencies, including revenue, customs, Navy, Coast Guard and other agencies are working together in this fight. The Union Home Ministry has also given a new standard operating procedure for investigation. If a drug is seized in any part of the country, it will not just be treated as a (single) case. The full network will be investigated. Once we started it, the policy gave good results. From 2006 to 2013, the value of drugs seized was 1768 crore, and from 2014 to 2022, it is `22,000 crore. It doesnt mean that more drugs are coming in, only that more is being seized, more cases are being registered, and more arrests are being made. It is being monitored strictly from the district level to my office.

Maoist insurgency still makes news too.

As far as left-wing extremism is concerned, violence has been reduced by 70%. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are free of left-wing extremism. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand are also free of it. The Tirupati-to-Kathmandu corridor that used to be spoken about has been reduced and it is confined to four districts in Chhattisgarh. We have started 181 new camps in the affected states and sent (security forces) inside zones where there was no entry earlier. Once camps gave protection, light, telephone towers, shops that provide food grains at affordable prices and schools were provided. Due to that, the number of people associated with them (extremist organisations) reduced, and the number of surrendered Naxals increased. We have seen success. In a short time, we will totally free the country of Naxalism.

READ MORE HERE:

Karnataka polls: Amit Shah targets Siddaramaiah on home turf Varuna

Karnataka polls: Will win 15 seats more than halfway mark, says Amit Shah

Karnataka polls: Congress has done nothing for SC/STs, says Amit Shah

Union home minister Amit Shah, in the last leg of a hectic campaign that saw him on the ground in all parts of Karnataka, is confident of the BJP bucking the trend of pendulum swings and returning to power in the state. In an exclusive interview with The New Indian Express, Shah takes questions on a variety of themes with his usual air of assured authority. But the bottom line was the crucial inflection point of the May 10 Assembly polls, and how winning it will ensure the partys political entrenchment in South India. Excerpts: What is your assessment of the situation on the ground in Karnataka on the last leg of electioneering? We will win a minimum of 15 seats more than the half-way mark (113). The reason for this is that, during the four years of our government, we have been implementing Modijis programmes on the ground successfully. That has created a whole class of beneficiaries of all Central government programmes. They are not being counted by those doing traditional political analysis based on castes, individuals and their clout. But I can see it very clearly in the meetings and public rallies across Karnataka. Let me give you some numbers. The Jal Jeevan Mission, which provides tap water free of fluoride, has linked 43 lakh households. They will get water in their houses and women no longer have to walk with pots on their heads to fetch water. Similarly, toilets were built in around 48 lakh houses, which is a big source of succour for women. Four crore people got foodgrains free of cost, around 1.38 crore people got relief on healthcare expenditure with insurance, 37 lakh people got gas cylinders under Ujjwala and around four lakh people got houses. Even if you remove overlapping, the beneficiaries will by all means number around 70 lakh families. That is a big number. All traditional calculations that look at the movement of Vokkaligas or Lingayats or Kurubas will be proved wrong.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); You are saying it will be social development, not economic or infrastructure development... It is both social as well as economic development. If they had not got free foodgrains, a portion of their income would have been spent on purchasing food and the Rs 3-4 lakh saved on health insurance would have been spent on medicines and treatment. That saving is invested in doing something new. They got toilets, water and gas at home, and their health improved, which resulted in their empowerment and increased their self-confidence. Many major projects were also taken up. Take the New Mangaluru Port Authority, at Rs 3,800 crore; the 10-lane Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway, Rs 8,000 crore; Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway, Rs 17,000 crore; Bengaluru-Hyderabad Expressway, Rs 31,000 crore; Bidar-Kalaburgi-Bellari road, Rs 7,650 crore; South Indias first Vande Bharat train; and the Shivamogga and Kalaburagi airports. So, you think welfare policies plus development will bring you back to power with a substantial majority? But why are the surveys not reflecting it? I have been involved in all elections in the last nine years and all the surveys have first defeated us: because the club of thinkers and those who work on the ground are different classes. The club of thinkers defeats us, but the team that works on the ground ensures our victory. You speak about welfare, social upliftment and Direct Benefit Transfers. You and the Prime Minister have also spoken very strongly against what he calls the revdi culture or system of bribing the voters to get support... There is a fundamental difference between the two. We dont give cash every month. We have given them a gas (connection) and they will purchase gas. We have provided the electricity connection; they pay the bill. We have built toilets and they will maintain them. We provided tap water; they pay tax to the panchayat. We provided health insurance, not cash. We have empowered them, not bribed them. Giving facilities free of cost is revdi. We dont do that. Many seniors were denied tickets this time and new faces were fielded. Was it not to beat anti-incumbency at the ground level? Take a look at the last 10 elections. We have always changed around 30% of our candidates. There is nothing new in it. Many senior leaders, including Jagadish Shettar and Laxman Savadi, left the party... Shettar and Savadi left as the BJP is a party that takes a stand. Would they have left the party if we had given them tickets? That is not how the party operates. Savadi is an MLC till 2028. This Assembly will be up to 2028. Why should he contest polls? Why should another worker not contest, why should we do injustice to another worker? If you wanted to contest for the Assembly, you should not have taken the MLC ticket. And Shettar had himself decided he will not be part of Basavaraj Bommais ministry as he is a senior. What will he do being just an MLA? He has contested elections six times. Let other workers come up. Shettar and Savadi say prominent Lingayat leaders were suppressed and BS Yediyurappa was sidelined... No one sidelined Yediyurappa. He himself had told me that there is a system in the party. He had crossed the age and needed to be replaced (as CM). Eight months after that, the party replaced him. Even now, Yediyurappa is addressing six rallies a day. Do you see any threat of the Lingayats moving away from the BJP? No. Savadi and Shettar will lose by a big margin. Take it from me. Shettars margin of defeat will be double the margin of his victory (in the last election) as Hubli has always voted for the BJP and not any individual. Hubli is our fortress. Why have you fielded ministers R Ashoka and V Somanna from two constituencies each? Dont you think fielding them from one segment each to take on senior Congress leaders would have sent a stronger message? What is good for our party is an internal issue of our party and we have to make those decisions. The trend in Karnataka is that it has not voted back a ruling party with a majority. Will the BJP be able to buck the trend? That was also there in UP, Assam and Manipur, and we broke those records. That is our record and that is why we are confident. Are you banking more on Modis charisma for bucking the trend or on development and performance? How can you separate Modiji and BJP? The Congress started the tradition that the PM should not go to state elections as Manmohan Singh was not addressing rallies. They did it as people were not coming for their election rallies. Was Indiraji not going? Was Atalji not going? For 10 years, the Congress had a leader who was not addressing rallies. So they started saying the PM should not go to state elections. Why not? Isnt Karnataka part of India? It is the responsibility of the PM to interact with people during elections and explain his views, his partys views, and the development agenda. That is the duty of the PM. Not going is arrogance. That is why the PM goes and puts in more hard work than us. ALSO READ| Karnataka elections: In a setback to BJP, Veerashaiva Lingayat forum extends support to Congress But the opposition says Amit Shah and the PM had to come to Karnataka as the state government has failed No, that is not true. We go to all states, even where we lost elections. We went to Odisha and we will go to Andhra Pradesh. For Congress, elections are just a means to gain power, but for us, it is a medium to present our ideology and programmes before the people. We explain our thinking, and our achievements. Why shouldnt we go? Do you think controversies on communal issues, such as those around hijab and halal, distracted from your development narrative? Hijab and halal are not at all issues in this election. I am hearing it for the first time from you. Why are you bringing it up? Your views on the Bajrang Dal ban proposal? Do you think it has helped you? For us, it is not an issue to get votes. We have always opposed appeasement. No party should seek votes based on such policies. We think this is appeasement, so we are opposing it. The Congress says the BJP government in Goa had banned the Sri Rama Sene in 2014 and asks what moral right do you have to oppose the Bajrang Dal ban now. You need to have proof to ban any organisation. We banned PFI, so you say you will ban another organisation. That is not fair. We have been in power since 2014 and banned PFI only after adequate proof came of its involvement in anti-national activities. We stopped it when it had reached the first stage of terrorist activities. The court also upheld it. The BJP often speak about the benefits of a double-engine government to seek votes. In a federal system, shouldnt the Centre and the state governments always be working for citizens as a double engine irrespective of which political parties are ruling at the Centre and the state? I will give you a small example from Karnataka. When the Siddaramaiah government was here, the Centre had asked for a list of farmers for giving benefits under the PM Kisan Samman Yojana. They sent a list of 17 farmers! They were scared that if the benefits reach farmers, they will be happy with the BJP and Modiji. When Yediyurappa became the CM, they sent a list of 54 lakh farmers. That is the difference a double- engine government makes, and we are explaining that to the people. The imposition of Hindi is one of the complaints against the BJP made by regional parties in Karnataka and other southern states. How do you respond to it? This is propaganda against the BJP. I want to humbly ask you, as well as those behind such propaganda, one question: could all students take IAS/IPS exams in the regional language before the Modi government came in 2014? No. Now they can do it. For 70 years, you forced students from Karnataka to take exams in Hindi or English. We ensured that they can take exams in their mother tongue. That is the case with medical examinations as well. Even constables examinations can be taken in all scheduled languages. Where is the question of Hindi imposition? In fact, we have made arrangements that they need not depend on Hindi. You tell me, if a child who studied in Kannada medium writes exams in Hindi or English, how can he or she get a job? (The Congress) made such an arrangement that Kannada-medium students did not get jobs. We changed it. Now students can take exams in Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu and other languages. ALSO READ| Public mood is in favour of BJP, no doubt over winning: Karnataka CM Bommai Linguists do believe that a childs cognitive skills develop best if it learns in the mother tongue. But in a multilingual country like ours, what will be the link language? People themselves will decide on the link language. There is no need to impose it on them. They will do whatever they feel is simple. How important is this election, looking from the perspective of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls? Winning or losing is part of elections. But for the BJP, it is a very important election as winning Karnataka means our Southern entry is assured. I strongly feel BJP governments will be formed in Karnataka and Telangana. Do Tamil Nadu and Kerala remain challenging areas? For us, the entire country was a challenging area. We did not have a single government in the Northeast. Now we have NDA governments in eight states. We were not in Uttar Pradesh, we won twice there. We won twice in Uttarakhand. We have performed well in Odisha. Eighteen Parliament members won from West Bengal. We also have 77 MLAs there, as well as the leader of the Opposition. It used to be just two MLAs. We are entering (all parts) and I hope it will happen soon in South India. If the BJP comes back to power, will Basavaraj Bommai continue as CM or will it be decided after the elections? Bommaiji is the CM now. You cannot decide on the CM when you have a CM. Also, we are facing the elections with Bommai as the CM. In an election rally, you said there will be communal riots in Karnataka if the Congress comes to power. Why did you say so? Look at the statistics. There were more communal riots during Congress rule. That is in the record, and I only spoke about the record. I said it is the Congresss history. Whenever the Congress came to power, there were communal riots. The Congress is accusing the BJP of 40% corruption and also for allegedly misusing agencies to target political opponents. How do you respond to their allegations? Both are contradictory. We have courts, police stations and agencies. Who filed a complaint about allegations of 40% bribe, and what is the outcome? It wont stick just by talking about it. As far as agencies are concerned, you can go to court. Why dont you go? Because there is a prima facie case. If you want a system in which no corruption cases should be registered against those in politics, you should include it in your election manifesto. Opposition says the agencies mostly target them... Look at the record from the Congresss time. A murder case was registered against me. I did not come out (to protest) wearing black clothes. I went to court. The court gave the verdict that it was a case of political vendetta and dismissed it. We have to fight in court. Cases were booked against Modiji too. They could not prove it. The question is, why dont they seek quashing of the ED (Enforcement Directorate) chargesheets? The ED makes a concrete case. If they say it is wrong, they should file an application seeking its quashing. Why go to trial? There is a provision to quash false cases. When a case was booked against me, I did not go to trial but sought its quashing. It was quashed. It went up to the Supreme Court. The BJP manifesto promises the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). Is it possible to do this in the state? UCC can be done. UCC is on the concurrent list. NRC is a survey and the state has the right to survey its citizens. ALSO READ| Karnataka polls: Battle royale in Varuna as Siddaramaiah locked in fierce fight with BJP's Somanna Ahead of the 2024 polls, the Congress is trying to form an alliance of non-BJP parties. How do you look at it? Its just propaganda. Tell me, how many people will come if Mamataji addresses a rally in UP? How will she help Akhilesh Yadav? What will happen if Chandrashekar Rao comes and supports Congress in Gujarat? What will happen if Stalinji campaigns for Congress in Karnataka? They are all leaders in their respective states (West Bengal, Telangana, Tamil Nadu) and we are fighting them in those states. Just coming on one platform will not make any difference in electoral possibilities. It will make a good photograph in newspapers, and they feel happy about it. Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto has made undiplomatic remarks on Kashmir. Even internally, issues have been raised about J&K statehood and elections. What do you have to say? Both issues are very clear. Elections will be conducted by the Election Commission and not the government. The commission is preparing electoral rolls. They are doing registration of people who left J&K because of the law and order situation and are living in different parts of the country. It is a laborious process. As far as the statehood question is concerned, I have said from day one in Parliament that after the elections, we agree to give statehood. How is the situation in Manipur? It is under control. The administration there is holding dialogues to build confidence on both sides. I am confident that it will be done. The drug menace is proving to be a challenge for the ministry and the country... We have taken the fight against drugs very seriously. We have a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics. We have adopted a Whole of Government Approach. All states and all agencies, including revenue, customs, Navy, Coast Guard and other agencies are working together in this fight. The Union Home Ministry has also given a new standard operating procedure for investigation. If a drug is seized in any part of the country, it will not just be treated as a (single) case. The full network will be investigated. Once we started it, the policy gave good results. From 2006 to 2013, the value of drugs seized was 1768 crore, and from 2014 to 2022, it is `22,000 crore. It doesnt mean that more drugs are coming in, only that more is being seized, more cases are being registered, and more arrests are being made. It is being monitored strictly from the district level to my office. Maoist insurgency still makes news too. As far as left-wing extremism is concerned, violence has been reduced by 70%. Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are free of left-wing extremism. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand are also free of it. The Tirupati-to-Kathmandu corridor that used to be spoken about has been reduced and it is confined to four districts in Chhattisgarh. We have started 181 new camps in the affected states and sent (security forces) inside zones where there was no entry earlier. Once camps gave protection, light, telephone towers, shops that provide food grains at affordable prices and schools were provided. Due to that, the number of people associated with them (extremist organisations) reduced, and the number of surrendered Naxals increased. We have seen success. In a short time, we will totally free the country of Naxalism. READ MORE HERE: Karnataka polls: Amit Shah targets Siddaramaiah on home turf Varuna Karnataka polls: Will win 15 seats more than halfway mark, says Amit Shah Karnataka polls: Congress has done nothing for SC/STs, says Amit Shah
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. 968 people requested asylum from Armenia in 2022, which is the highest figure since 2010. Citizens of Azerbaijan and Turkey are also among the asylum seekers, ARMENPRESS was informed from the Migration and Citizenship Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

In 2022, Ukrainian citizens led the number of those applying for asylum: 484 people. In the same year, 289 citizens received refugee status, applications of 76 citizens were terminated, refugee status of 7 citizens of Ukraine was terminated.

The second among those requesting asylum from Armenia were Iraqi citizens: 198 people, from which 28 were granted refugee status.

Citizens of Iran are in the third place, in 2022, 106 citizens of Iran requested asylum from Armenia. 19 people received refugee status.

In 2022, 1 citizen of Azerbaijan also requested asylum from Armenia. Turkish citizens are also among the asylum seekers. In 2022, 8 Turkish citizens requested asylum from Armenia, in the same year, 1 citizen's asylum request was rejected, 1 citizen received refugee status.
YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. The Foreign Ministry of Artsakh issued a statement regarding the imminent environmental disaster provoked by Azerbaijan. As ARMENPRESS was informed from MFA Artsakh, the statement reads as follows,

For almost five months now, the Republic of Artsakh has been under siege, accompanied by an unlawful transport and energy blockade, as one of the main instruments of the ethnic cleansing policy consistently and systematically pursued by Azerbaijan at the state level. As part of this policy, the Azerbaijani authorities are trying not only to create unbearable socio-economic conditions, but also artificially provoke an environmental disaster and undermine the foundations of sustainable development of Artsakh.



In particular, Azerbaijan is still preventing the repair of the damaged Aghavno-Berdzor section of the only high-voltage power line running from Armenia to Artsakh. To deepen the energy crisis, Azerbaijan has also regularly disrupted the supply of natural gas from Armenia to Artsakh. It has been two months since the last cut off. As a result, the hydroelectric power plant on the Sarsang reservoir became the only means to mitigate the energy crisis, however, the continued Azerbaijani policy of siege and energy blockade resulted in the release of an unprecedented amount of water from the reservoir to generate the electricity needed for the besieged population of Artsakh during the cold winter period.



The authorities of Artsakh have repeatedly drawn the attention of the international community to the fact that the continued deliberate obstruction by Azerbaijan of natural gas and electricity supply from Armenia to Artsakh will lead to disastrous consequences, in particular for the Sarsang reservoir, which is the largest and most critically important source of freshwater in Artsakh. Shallowing of the Sarsang reservoir will have serious environmental consequences for the entire ecosystem of the region, and will deprive the population of both Artsakh and some regions of Azerbaijan of water resources necessary for normal life activity.



By creating prerequisites for the shallowing of the Sarsang reservoir and provoking an environmental disaster, the Azerbaijani authorities are pursuing several goals, including creating unbearable living conditions in Artsakh and preparing the ground for accusations of unscrupulous use of water resources as a pretext for new military provocations.



We emphasise again that due to the ongoing unlawful and aggressive actions of Azerbaijan, the humanitarian situation in the Republic of Artsakh and the overall military-political situation in the region are rapidly deteriorating. In the current extremely dangerous situation, we consider it absolutely necessary to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Trilateral Statement of 9 November 2020, as well as the immediate and resolute intervention of the international community and, first of all, the UN Security Council, to prevent the continuation of massive and systematic violations of human rights in Artsakh and to stop the criminal plans and genocidal intentions of Azerbaijan.
S.Korean Prez holds summit with Japan PM in full resumption of shuttle diplomacy

Seoul, May 7: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Seoul on Sunday for the second summit in less than two months, a highly symbolic meeting demonstrating the neighbouring nations are firmly on course to the full restoration of long-frayed relations.

S.Korean Prez holds summit with Japan PM in full resumption of 'shuttle diplomacy'

Yoon welcomed Kishida to the presidential office in Seoul in an official arrival ceremony that included the playing of the two countries' national anthems and a joint honour guard review, Yonhap news agency reported.The Japanese Prime Minister arrived in Seoul earlier on Sunday for a two-day working visit and stopped at Seoul National Cemetery to pay his respects to Korea's fallen independence activists and war veterans before heading to the presidential office.Kishida's visit comes as bilateral relations have warmed significantly following Seoul's decision in March to compensate Korean victims of Japanese wartime forced labour without contribution from Japanese firms.Yoon travelled to Tokyo 10 days after the decision was announced and held a summit with Kishida as the first South Korean president to pay a bilateral visit to Japan in 12 years.Kishida's visit is also the first bilateral visit by a Japanese leader in 12 years, marking the full-scale resumption of "shuttle diplomacy," or regular mutual visits, as agreed between Yoon and Kishida during their summit in Tokyo in March, Yonhap news agency reported.Later in the day, Yoon and Kishida will hold a joint news conference, and then have dinner at the official presidential residence, where they will be joined by first lady Kim Keon Hee and Kishida's wife, Yuko, according to diplomatic sources.The summit was first held in a small group and will later be held in an expanded format, covering issues such as security, high-tech industries, science and technology, and cooperation on youth and cultural affairs, according to the presidential office.North Korea will feature high on the agenda as South Korea pushes to strengthen cooperation with Japan and trilaterally with the US to counter the growing threat posed by North Korea's nuclear and missile programmes.Yoon recently returned from a state visit to Washington, where he and US President Joe Biden agreed on a set of measures to support the US "extended deterrence" commitment to defending South Korea with all of its military capabilities, including nuclear weapons.A joint summit statement noted the two presidents also "emphasised the importance of US-South Korea-Japan trilateral cooperation, guided by shared values, driven by innovation, and committed to shared prosperity and security".Trade and economic issues will likely be high on the agenda as well, given calls for South Korea and Japan to work more closely together to defend their interests in high-tech industries, such as semiconductors and batteries, as the US and the European Union move to protect their own industries.South Koreans will be watching closely for any discussion of Japan's plan to release contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant crippled by an earthquake and a tsunami in 2011.South Korea hopes Japan will agree to a joint investigation of the contaminated water in addition to the monitoring currently under way by the International Atomic Energy Agency.The two countries are also in the process of restoring each other as trusted trading partners after having removed each other from their respective "white lists" of nations eligible for preferential export treatment amid the forced labour row in 2019.The presidential office said the summit is unlikely to produce a joint statement, though the final decision will be made during the talks and the leaders will announce the outcome of the summit at a joint press conference.South Koreans will be paying keen attention to whether Kishida goes beyond reaffirming the positions of past Japanese governments to issue an apology or express remorse for Tokyo's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula.During the March summit, Kishida reaffirmed the Japanese government inherits on the whole the historical perceptions of past governments, including the 1998 joint declaration adopted by former President Kim Dae-jung and former Japanese Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi.The 1998 declaration called for overcoming the past and building new relations, with Obuchi expressing remorse for the "horrendous damage and pain" Japan's colonial rule inflicted on the Korean people.On Monday, Kishida is scheduled to hold meetings with members of a South Korea-Japan parliamentarians' association and chiefs of South Korea's six business lobbies, including SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won, who is now heading the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry, according to industry sources.He will then depart to return to Tokyo.IANS07 May 2023

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Meghalaya govt arranges special flights to bring back students from violence hit Manipur

Shillong (Meghalaya), May 6: The government of Meghalaya is arranging special flights to bring back stranded students in violence-hit Manipur, said an official statement on Saturday.

Meghalaya govt arranges special flights to bring back students from violence hit Manipur

Special flights from Imphal to Shillong are being arranged by the authorities to bring students back at the earliest. Travel arrangements will be made on 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th of May.According to the official statement, two officers have been deputed by the Government of Meghalaya to travel and stay in Imphal to oversee the transfer of students and citizens from the state and arrange for local support for safe travels for the students.Transport Department is arranging vehicles for students/citizens arriving at Guwahati Airport, and food arrangements are also being made at the airport. The Government is in touch with the students in Manipur to monitor the situation and provide them with every assistance for their safe return, read the statement.Sixty-six students were evacuated from Imphal Airport to Guwahati Airport in Assam as on Friday. Eight more students evacuated on Saturday morning.Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also held a meeting with officials and sought details of the evacuation process of students from affected areas on Saturday. Sangma took to Twitter and wrote, "Held meeting with officials to check the status of the evacuation process of students from Manipur to Meghalaya. The team is working round the clock to ensure our students from the state are back home safe."ANI07 May 2023

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7 Chinese military aircraft, 4 naval ships enter Taiwans air defence identification zone

Taipei, May 6: Seven People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, one anti-submarine helicopter (Ka-28) entered Taiwan's southwest air defence identification zone (ADIZ) on Friday, according to the Ministry of National Defense MND, reported Taiwan News.

7 Chinese military aircraft, 4 naval ships enter Taiwan's air defence identification zone

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) tracked them around Taiwan between 6 am on Friday (May 5) and 6 am on Saturday (May 6).In response, Taiwan sent aircraft and naval ships and used land-based missiles to monitor the PLA aircraft and vessels, reported Taiwan News.So far this month, Beijing has sent 74 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan. Since September 2020, China has increased its use of grey zone tactics by routinely sending aircraft into Taiwan's ADIZ.Grey zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resorting to direct and sizable use of force."In response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's stopover in California and meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on 5 April, China upped the ante with a series of military aircraft manoeuvres designed to psychologically intimidate Taiwan.At first, Beijing's response to the meeting was muted, promising "joint inspection patrols" by a Maritime Safety Administration vessel. This was followed by two live-fire exercises off the coast of Pingtan and Fuzhou.Salami slicing and grey-zone tactics are China's regular modus operandi, but its actions are becoming ever more robust and blatant as China narrows Taiwan's room for manoeuvre and psychologically bludgeons it.There are more overt measures in its toolkit that China has not yet taken. Seizing outlying islands such as the Pratas would enable China to extend control over territory held by Taiwan.Yet this would be a higher risk than what China did in the South China Sea when it militarized unoccupied low-lying reefs and turned them into bases. Other potential actions include cyberattacks and targeting civilian infrastructure.Far more violent would be missile bombardments or maritime, air and information blockades. Beijing could use them to force Taiwanese leaders to the negotiating table, or to set conditions for a military invasion. The ultimate military option for China would be a full-scale amphibious invasion.However, there are only a few beaches in Taiwan where such landings are possible, and only certain times of the year when the waters of the Taiwan Strait are sufficiently calm.ANI07 May 2023

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Republic Day 2024 to be an all-woman affair, only females to be part of marching contingents, bands, tableaux and performances

New Delhi, May 6: Amid a major effort to promote female participation in military and other sectors, the Republic Day parade will see participation only by women in march pasts by forces, tableaux and performances.

Republic Day 2024 to be an all-woman affair, only females to be part of marching contingents, bands, tableaux and performances

A note has been circulated to all the defence forces along with other important stake holders by the ceremonial branch of the Ministry of Defence which organises the Republic Day parade in coordination with all other ministries and departments, defence sources told ANI."After detailed deliberations, it has been decided that Republic Day 2024 will have women participation, including contingents (marching and bands), tableaux and performances during the parade at the Kartavya Path," they said.The Defence Ministry has apprised other ministries including Home Affairs, Culture and Urban Development about the decision to hold the all women parade in the coming year.In recent years, the defence forces and paramilitary contingents have chosen women contingent commanders and deputy commanders in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's drive to promote women's participation in all possible roles in the military as they have been given command opportunities along with deployment in combat roles.Due to such opportunities, women have been able to be fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force and have also been inducted into Army as jawans.Recently, the Army also opened up the Regiment of Artillery for women officers.ANI07 May 2023

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Australian govt to subsidise power bills for millions with cost-of-living pressure

Canberra, May 7: Millions of Australians will receive rebates from their energy bills under a cost of living relief package.

Australian govt to subsidise power bills for millions with cost-of-living pressure

Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Sunday announced the federal budget for 2023-24, which he will hand down on Tuesday, will include about 1.5 billion Australian dollars ($1.01 billion) to subsidise the energy bills of pensioners, welfare recipients and small businesses.It means about 5.5 million households and 1 million businesses will receive relief worth up to 500 Australian dollars ($337.6) each, Xinhua news agency reported.Chalmers said the measure would "take some of the edge off what is the key drivers of these cost-of-living pressures".The budget will be Chalmers' second since becoming Treasurer in May 2022.Chalmers also on Sunday said it would include changes to the Petroleum Resource Rent Tax paid by oil and gas companies on their offshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects.The changes are expected to yield an additional 2.4 billion Australian dollars ($1.6 billion) in tax revenue for the government."Now, this means more tax sooner from these projects and it means that it can help fund our cost-of-living package and other priorities in the Budget," he added.IANS07 May 2023

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PM Modi congratulates King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their coronation

New Delhi, May 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their coronation.

PM Modi congratulates King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their coronation

"Warmest congratulations to King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their coronation. We are sure that the India-UK relationship will be strengthened further in the coming years. @RoyalFamily," tweeted PM Modi.Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his spouse Dr Sudesh Dhankhar attended the Coronation ceremony of King Charles III in London.King Charles III has been crowned during a majestic and deeply religious ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London.After the service, the King and selected members of the royal family made the customary appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony. A flypast of military aircraft was scaled back due to bad weather in London.US President Joe Biden also congratulated the King and Queen, noting the "enduring friendship" between the United Kingdom and United States in a tweet."Congratulations to King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their Coronation. The enduring friendship between the U.S. and the U.K. is a source of strength for both our peoples. I am proud the First Lady is representing the United States for this historic occasion," tweeted Biden.French President Emmanuel Macron said King Charles III and Queen Camilla are "friends of France." "Proud to be by your side on this historic day," he tweeted in French.President of the European Council Charles Michel extended his "best wishes" to King Charles III and Queen Camilla in a tweet, adding that the council appreciates the King's dedication to environmental efforts. "EU-Great Britain friendship," he tweeted.Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin congratulated the King and Queen on Coronation Day, "a very important day for many across these islands.""We will continue to work in support of the bonds of friendship between our peoples and the strong connections we share," he said.Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said "it was a great pleasure and honour" to be at the coronation in London."On behalf of Finland, we extended Their Majesties our very best wishes for a long and successful reign," he tweeted.Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni tweeted in Italian "The ancient Cosmatesque mosaic in Westminster Abbey, on which today the throne was placed for the coronation of King Charles III, was masterfully created by Italian craftsmen some eight centuries ago.""Today it is still there to amaze the world, and to tell the story of the historic and fruitful cooperation between Italy and the United Kingdom, which we are sure with King Charles III - who once again reminded yesterday that he loves Italy - will further strengthen, as we have already begun to do with PM Rishi Sunak," she said.ANI07 May 2023

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Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will hold a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on May 14 in Brussels, Financial Times reported citing officials with knowledge of preparations.

May 8, 2023, 11:07 PM Pashinyan to meet with Aliyev in Brussels  FT

STEPANAKERT, MAY 8, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: European Council president Charles Michel will host the meeting on Sunday, Financial Times reported.

The Brussels meeting is an important sign of progress, one of the three officials told Financial Times on condition of anonymity as it is not yet public, adding that the EU and US efforts were mutually reinforcing and complementary two-track processes.

There are also plans for the three leaders to hold another meeting on June 1 with German chancellor Olaf Scholz and French president Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the European Political Community summit in Moldova, two of the officials told Financial Times.
Treat people the way you want to be treated, Naveen-ul-Haq shares cryptic post; Gautam Gambhir reacts

Ahmedabad, May 7: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pacer Naveen-ul-Haq had a heated verbal fight with former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli on Monday (May 1) during RCB's IPL 2023 match against LSG at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. And days after that ugly spat, he shared a picture with Gautam Gambhir on Saturday with a cryptic caption.

Treat people the way you want to be treated, Naveen-ul-Haq shares cryptic post; Gautam Gambhir reacts

Naveen posted a photo with Gautam Gambhir, who was also involved in a clash with Kohli after the match. LSG mentor Gambhir also reacted to the post.https//www.instagram.com/p/Cr6HMAhoZZ9/"Treat people the way you want to be treated. Talk to people the way you want to be talked to #With (Goat Emoji)," Naveen captioned the picture on Instagram. Reacting to the post, Gambhir wrote "Be who you are !! 'Never Change'."The LSG bowler, who was also seen in the centre of the argument was also fined 50 per cent of his match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct.RCB had bowled LSG out for 108, scoring 126/9 in 20 overs at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium and Kohli celebrated the fall of the hosts with his trademark aggression. He was seen blowing kisses to the crowd.Things started to heat up as both teams came face to face to shake hands with each other when Kohli and Naveen were seen involved in an exchange of words. Kohli and the Lucknow Super Giants' Team mentor Gambhir both admitted to the Level 2 offence under Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct. Apart from this, Naveen-ul-Haq was also fined 50 per cent of his match fees for breaching the Code of Conduct.Naveen-ul-Haq admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.21 of the IPL Code of Conduct. In a previous encounter between the two sides last month, LSG team mentor Gambhir had signalled the RCB home crowd to be quiet after LSG's narrow win. Not only did Kohli blow kisses at the Lucknow crowd when their team lost a wicket, but he also appeared to mimic Gambhir by pressing his finger to his lips emulating the keep silent sign.After the match ended, the two shook hands and things looked fine. LSG opener Kyle Mayers walked up to Kohli and started speaking when Gambhir came and took Mayers away. A little while after this incident, visuals from the match showed Gautam Gambhir animatedly speaking to Virat Kohli. Other players, including KL Rahul, and support staff were seen separating the two. Kohli was then seen having a lengthy chat with LSG captain KL Rahul.ANI07 May 2023

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Khushbu Sundar replies to trolls claiming she converted to marry husband Sundar C

Mumbai, May 7: Actress-politician Khushbu Sundar has clapped back at trolls accusing her of converting to marry her husband and filmmaker Sunder C. She added that her 23 years of marriage is rock solid.

Khushbu Sundar replies to trolls claiming she 'converted' to marry husband Sundar C

Khushbu took to Twitter to give it back to trolls and said that they have not heard of "special marriage act"."Those who question my marriage, or say I have converted to marry my husband, I say get some sense n education pls. Sad, they have never heard of 'special marriage act' which exists in our country.""I have neither converted nor have been asked to do so. My marriage of 23 yrs is rock solid, based on trust, respect, equality and love. So those who have doubts, pls go for a hike. You need it."Khushbu, who started her career as a child artiste in showbiz, married film actor, director and producer Sundar C in 2000. She has been using the married name Khushbu Sundar since then. They have two daughters, Avantika and Anandita. She added her husband's name Sundar to her name after marriage.The Special Marriage Act, 1954 is an Act of the Parliament with provision for civil marriage for people of the country and all Indian nationals in foreign countries, irrelevant of the religion or faith followed by either party.IANS07 May 2023

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Women entrepreneurs can bring positive change in society: Director J-K Entrepreneurship Development Institute

Pulwama, May 6: The director of Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) on Saturday presided over a one-day Entrepreneurship Awareness Program (EAP) and said that women entrepreneurs can bring positive change in society.

Women entrepreneurs can bring positive change in society: Director J-K Entrepreneurship Development Institute

The one-day EAP was organized by Government Degree College for Women (GDCW), Pulwama in collaboration with JKEDI, said an official release.According to the release, the program is a part of the ongoing efforts of the Institute to create mass awareness among the educated youth of UT. The theme of the program revolved around women entrepreneurs and their contribution to the overall startup ecosystem of Jammu and Kashmir."JKEDI intends to reach every corner of J-K and create awareness about entrepreneurship. With the potential to change the economic landscape of the UT, it can be a game changer. There are a lot of government initiatives to aid and support startups and aspiring entrepreneurs and one must avail such incentives to push their businesses. Women entrepreneurs can bring positive change and create an all-inclusive and balanced society," said Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, Director of JKEDI."I request the youth who are the future of J-K to think in terms of making a new beginning by taking the reins of the nation and become role models and capitalize their skills and available resources for a better tomorrow," he added.Principal GDCW, Pulwama, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq Khan also highlighted various issues concerning women entrepreneurs and motivated the young students to choose entrepreneurship as a first career option. Hundreds of students participated in the program.Senior faculty members of JKEDI also participated in the program and spoke about various activities and programs of the Institute. District Nodal Officer, JKEDI Pulwama also gave a presentation highlighting the achievements of the Institute.To motivate the young students, a number of inspiring success stories of women entrepreneurs from Pulwama and other parts of the UT were also showcased at the event.ANI07 May 2023

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Recent study finds out connection between obesity and colorectal cance

Heidelberg, May 7: Obesity is known to raise the risk of colorectal cancer. Research from the German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ) suggested that the significance of this link has probably been grossly underestimated. The reason is that many patients unintentionally lose weight before being told they have colon cancer.

Recent study finds out connection between obesity and colorectal cance

Studies that only consider body weight at the time of diagnosis conceal the true relationship between obesity and the risk of colorectal cancer. The current study also shows that unintentional weight loss may act as a risk factor for colorectal cancer.Obesity puts people at risk for a wide range of cancers. For example, in the cases of colorectal, renal, and endometrial cancer, this association is very clear. According to earlier estimations, obese people had a roughly one-third higher risk of developing colon cancer than people of normal weight."However, these studies have so far not taken into account that many affected people lose weight in the years before their colorectal cancer diagnosis," says Hermann Brenner, epidemiologist and prevention expert at the German Cancer Research Center. "This has led to the risk contribution of obesity being significantly underestimated in many trials."To assess the magnitude of this bias, Brenner's researchers evaluated data from the DACHS study*. The nearly 12,000 study participants included in the current evaluation had provided information on their body weight at the time of diagnosis and had also reported their weight in the years preceding diagnosis (measured at 10-year intervals).On the basis of body weight at the time of diagnosis, no indication of a relationship between body weight and colorectal cancer risk could be established. The picture was quite different, however, when the researchers looked at the participants' earlier body weight Here, a strong correlation between overweight and the probability of developing colorectal cancer was found, which was most pronounced 8 to 10 years before diagnosis.Study participants who were highly overweight - referred to as obese- during this period were twice as likely as those of normal weight to develop colorectal cancer. "If we had only looked at weight at baseline, as has been done in many previous studies, we would have completely missed the link between obesity and increased risk of colorectal cancer," said Marko Mandic, the study's first author.ANI07 May 2023

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With nice people, you are nice, with difficult people, you push back: Jaishankar highlights Indias geopolitics

Mysuru, May 7: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday highlighted India's response to global geopolitics at an interactive session on 'Foreign Policy of Modi Government' held in Mysuru.

With nice people, you are nice, with difficult people, you push back: Jaishankar highlights India's geopolitics

"I think there are moments when it is, as I said, with nice people, you are nice. With difficult people, sometimes it's necessary to push back. But I would say this because this has been my experience in the last year," said Jaishankar while taking questions on former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan playing his speeches, lauding India for its independent foreign policy.At a Lahore rally last year, former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan praised India for its independent foreign policy and played out a video clip of EAM Jaishankar."India and Pakistan got independence at the same time, if New Delhi can take a firm stand and make their foreign policy as per the needs of its people then who are they (Shehbaz Sharif's govt) who are toeing the line," said Imran at the rally.Imran played his videos at his campaign rallies as an example of national pride. Moreover, in Sri Lanka, Jaishankar's videos of standing up to European hypocrisy have gone viral."It's sometimes you're made to sit and almost hold it saying, how can India do this? How do you take this position? At that stage you ask yourself saying, what do you do? Do you then be conciliatory or do you put your point of view across? And if somebody is being very self-centred, they're only looking at their interest, their point of view, not by rights. Tell them that there are other points of view and there are other interests, etc," said Jaishankar.Responding to his becoming the face of South Asian pride and whether the time has come for South Asian nations to assert themselves in global geopolitics, Jaishankar said, "A lot of countries in different ways today are feeling they are feeling pushed. They are feeling that they're not being heard. And to the extent they see others who are pushing back, I think, as I said, they may take solace from it. Sometimes they take courage from it. Many of them kind of say, okay, I can't do it, but I'm glad you are doing it. So there's a bit of that."He also took a pot-shot at Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, who had urged Jaishankar earlier to "cool a little bit" after the latter's remark about the West's "bad habit" of commenting on other countries."I have known him for a long time and consider him as a friend but on this issue, I think we need not be so thin-skinned, I think it's very important that as a government we take something in stride. If we react to every comment, we are doing ourselves a disservice. I will strongly urge my friend Jai to cool a little bit," said Tharoor.Responding to Tharoor's advice "not to have such a thin skin and must cool it," Jaishankar said, "I ask you a question because I think the Shashi Tharoor issue came out of that. Actually, I was in Bangalore that day. I landed in Delhi. Like, everybody immediately switched on their phone the moment the plane touches down. And I saw that picture of that guy climbing up the flagpole and pulling down a national flag. Honestly, tell me if you saw it, didn't your blood boil (UK Khalistan incident)? Do you want me to have a thick skin on that? I think there are issues if somebody sort of, I would say, insults your country or dishonours what you hold dear or attacks your core positions. Absolutely. I have thin skin. I think we should have thin skins."Jaishankar said that on certain matters, he has a thick skin and on certain matters has a thin skin."When people say you can say, like, personal stuff. I tend to have I'm trying to develop a thick skin, okay? It's part of my political incarnation. So I don't respond to some tweets, as you notice. But on certain matters, I don't think it's a thin skin issue," said Jaishankar.Answering to "technocrat vs politician debate," Jaishankar said that he made a "conscious decision to go into politics, there are people who can't believe I am in politics..", and praised his peers - Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Swaran Singh and Sushma Swaraj."Look, there's one thing you have to be to be a diplomat. That answers your question. You have to be an optimist. And therefore the one thing you should not be is a pessimist. You have to be an optimist because you are often in situations when things look very tough, very grim, it looks like there's no solution," he said.Sharing his journey from being a diplomat to a politician, Jaishankar said that his political colleagues do not take him seriously."If you people keep describing me as a technocrat, my political colleagues don't take me seriously. So, look, I happened to be a person who had a career in diplomacy and then made a conscious decision to go into politics," he said.ANI07 May 2023

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If you vote for BJP, they will loot you, says Priyanka Gandhi

Dakshina Kannada, May 7: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday cautioned people that if they vote for the BJP in the Karnataka elections, its leaders will loot them.

If you vote for BJP, they will loot you, says Priyanka Gandhi

Addressing a massive crowd in Moodbidri town, Priyanka Gandhi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders who come to the state do not speak about local issues and the people."Instead, they talk about themselves. If you vote for them, they won't do your work. They will loot you."If they (BJP) had done good work, PM Modi would not have come here and given a list of abuses. He would have given the list of achievements. He would have given the list of how many schools were opened, how many jobs were created and how much development is achieved? They have done nothing to talk about," she said."That's why, they try to get your attention by raking up caste and religion and covering up their failures," she added."You (people) decide on whether to elect a corrupt leader or best leader. If you want a good government, you have to focus on the election and cast your vote carefully," she appealed."The Congress will develop secondary cities at par with Bengaluru and create jobs. There is going to be a rise in the production of electric vehicles in future. The manufacturing units will be established in Karnataka and we will prove to you how an honest government will deliver its promises."Attacking the BJP, Priyanka Gandhi accused it of destroying, instead of creating job opportunities. The Congress after studying the problems of the people has decided to return the money of the people looted by BJP, and the party would fill up 2.90 lakh vacancies lying vacant, she assured."The BJP is trying to merge Nandini with Amul. If it happens, it will have a direct impact on 1 crore people of Karnataka. The BJP is not at all thinking about it. They are busy thinking of looting," she claimed.IANS07 May 2023

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Gehlot goes on offensive, asks MLAs to return Rs 10-15 crore taken from Amit Shah

Jaipur, May 7: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot on Sunday made a scathing attack on the Sachin Pilot camp, reiterating his allegation that they had taken crores of rupees from the BJP during the rebellion.

Gehlot goes on offensive, asks MLAs to 'return Rs 10-15 crore taken from Amit Shah'

Gehlot's attack came a day after former Deputy CM Pilot spoke on corruption and paper leaks, attacking the Chief Minister without taking his name.He, in fact, also advised MLAs to return the money to Union Home Minister Amit Shah.Addressing an inflation relief camp near Dholpur, Gehlot triggered political controversy by alleging the MLAs of the Pilot camp collected money from BJP to topple the government."At that time Rs 10 to 20 crore were distributed to our MLAs. That money should be returned to Amit Shah."Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat all together conspired to topple our government. Money was distributed to the MLAs in Rajasthan. These people are not taking money back. I am worried, why are they not taking the money back?" he said."I even told our MLAs who took Rs 10-20 crore that if they have spent some of the amount, I will give that part. I will get it from AICC (party high command). You give the money back to Amit Shah," he added."If you have taken Rs 10 crore, then give back Rs 10 crore, if you have taken Rs 15 crore, then give back Rs 15 crore to him. Don't keep his money. If you keep his money, he will always keep pressure on you. He is also the Home Minister, he will threaten, intimidate like he does in Gujarat. Shiv Sena was divided into two pieces by intimidation in Maharashtra. Amit Shah plays a very dangerous game," Gehlot claimed."I have told the MLAs, no problem, you made a mistake... forget and forgive. If you have spent Rs two crore, then tell me. I will get it by asking the Congress President. Give his money back so that you can work independently. I will give full support.""I have been made the Chief Minister for the third time. It is my duty to forget the old things and take everyone along. I have not kept any shortcomings in anyone's work. I took everyone along. Take everyone along with you and make the party win. I have said that it is my resolve since childhood that I want to serve the people of the state till my last breath," he asserted.He saiid that if three MLAs - Rohit Bohra, Didwana's Chetan Dudi and Sawai Madhopur's Danish Abrar had not supported him on time, "then today I would not have been standing in front of you as the Chief Minister".Noting that the BJP toppled governments in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, he said "The BJP is toppling the governments by buying and selling MLAs. If you get Rs 10 crore, Rs 20 crore, Rs 25 crore ,then many MLAs are sold. How 3 governments went. BJP killed democracy. These are dangerous people. Those who are sitting in power have no development faith in democracy, they are only wearing the mask of democracy.""There was a complete conspiracy to topple our government. Crores of rupees were spent. Apart from Bohra, Dudi and Danish, two more MLAs - Khiladi Lal Bairwa and Girraj Singh Malinga were also with us, then 102 MLAs assembled. I had to say that I will be your guardian. Don't worry."We together will bring back the government, will make you win. Now it is up to every MLA to win. I have given what you asked. I gave what was asked from me through the budget, I had said that you will get tired of asking, I will not get tired of giving," Gehlot added.IANS07 May 2023

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Sitharaman to hold FSDC meeting on May 8 to review economy

New Delhi, May 7: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday is likely to hold a meeting to review the status of the economy, sources in the know of things said on Sunday.

Sitharaman to hold FSDC meeting on May 8 to review economy

She is expected to hold a meeting of the financial stability and development council (FSDC), which is likely to be attended by regulators of the financial institutions, namely the chiefs of RBI, IRDA and SEBI, among others.The meeting will review the current global and domestic economic situation and financial stability issues, sources said.This will be the first meeting of the FSDC after the presentation of the union budget for 2023-24.FSDC is headed by the Finance Minister and is an organisation of financial sector regulators.The last meeting of FSDC was held in September 2022.IANS07 May 2023

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Stage set for Priyanka Gandhis maiden public rally in Telangana

Hyderabad, May 7: The stage is set for Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's maiden public rally and meeting in Telangana.

Stage set for Priyanka Gandhi's maiden public rally in Telangana

The All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary will lead a rally and address a public meeting at Saroornagar stadium on Monday.This is her maiden political visit to Telangana since the state's formation in 2014.The Congress leader is scheduled to address the public meeting over the problems of unemployed youth and students in the state. She will announce youth declaration.Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka told reporters on Sunday that Congress Bharosa Sabha is aimed at giving an assurance to the youth.He said the party would announce what it plans to do for the unemployed after coming to power in the state.He said justice should be done to youth in Telangana which was achieved with their struggle and sacrifice.Bhatti Vikramarka said if voted to power in Telangana, the Congress party would provide jobs to the unemployed and also provide houses for the poor.The Congress leader alleged that the state government was playing with the careers and lives of 30 lakh unemployed youth and students.Priyanka Gandhi will arrive in Hyderabad after completing the election campaign in Karnataka.She will lead a rally from the statue of Srikanth Chari, who sacrificed his life for Telangana. It will cover about 2 km to reach Saroornagar stadium where the public meeting will take place.The opposition party has made arrangements to mobilise large number of people for the meeting which is being held in the wake of Telangana Public Service Commission (TSPSC) and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) paper leak cases.Congress leaders alleged that the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government headed by Chief Minister KCR was least bothered about the TSPSC paper leak case and the future of 30 lakh educated unemployed youth.IANS07 May 2023

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IAS Vineet Joshi appointed as new Chief Secretary in Manipur

New Delhi, May 7: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on Sunday appointed Vineet Joshi, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education as the new Chief Secretary in Manipur.

IAS Vineet Joshi appointed as new Chief Secretary in Manipur

"The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the repatriation of Vineet Joshi, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education to his parent cadre on the request of the Government of Manipur," Deepti Umashankar, Secretary Appointments Committee of the Cabinet and Establishment Officer said in the letter.Vineet Joshi, a 1992 Manipur cadre IAS officer, replaced Dr Rajesh Kumar as the new Chief Secretary.Earlier in February 2022, IAS Vineet Joshi, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education, was appointed as the new chairman of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)."Consequent upon relieving of Shri Manoj Ahuja, IAS(OR1990) from the post of Chairman, CBSE w.e.f 14.02.2022 (A/N) vide office order dated 14.02.2022, the charge of Chairman, CBSE is assigned to Shri Vineet Joshi, Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education in addition to his existing assignments. This issues with the approval of the competent authority," the official order read.The Northeast state has been on the boil in the wake of clashes between the majority Meitei community and other tribal groups over a high court order asking the Manipur government to consider including the former in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs).Earlier, on May 3, amid the prevailing disquiet and upturn in incidents of violence in the state, the district administration imposed a curfew in Churachandpur district, one of the worst-affected areas in the ongoing conflict.ANI07 May 2023

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China will protect its interests in the event of EU sanctions against seven Chinese technology companies due to their supply of equipment to Russia, the Chinese Foreign Ministrys spokesman Wang Wenbin announced on Monday.

May 8, 2023, 12:35 China threatens EU with countermeasures over possible sanctions against its companies

STEPANAKERT, MAY 8, ARTSAKHPRESS: "If media reports turn out to be true, <...> such actions by the European side will seriously undermine mutual trust and cooperation between the EU and China," he stressed at a briefing.

When asked to comment on the information that seven Chinese companies could soon come under EU sanctions due to the supply of equipment to Russia he replied: "The European side should not make a mistake, otherwise Beijing will be forced to resolutely protect its rationally justified legal rights.".
Jammu and Kashmirs film tourism takes flight with 300 new shooting destinations

Srinagar, May 7: Jammu and Kashmir is set to become prime destination for the film industry as the government has identified around 300 unexplored destinations for film shootings.

Jammu and Kashmir's film tourism takes flight with 300 new shooting destinations

The Union Territory government and Tourism Department have taken this initiative to promote the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir, which was once a prime destination for filmmakers during the 1960s and 1970s. With the revival of film tourism in the state, J-K aims to attract production houses and filmmakers to shoot their movies, web series, and serials in the state."We are projecting 300 destinations for film shooting so that the production houses can choose any destination for their shooting. The government will facilitate them in all possible ways," said Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Administrative Secretary of the J-K Tourism Department.In the last year, more than 200 films, web series, and serials were shot in J-K, which is a great sign of the revival of film tourism in Kashmir. The government has ensured a proper system in place to facilitate the shooting of films with the permission and regulatory requirements done through a one-stop centre. The government has also developed an online portal to facilitate the production houses for their shooting in J-K."Major film stars were recently here in Kashmir for a week and shot across the Valley. I give an open invitation to all of them to shoot their films here," Shah said."The rising issue of substance abuse is also highlighted in the trailer of the upcoming movie 'Welcome to Kashmir'. Speaking on this, Shah said substance abuse is a social issue that is prevailing at a global level and in J-K as well. "It needs a collaborative approach of the society, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our society works hard towards the eradication of this menace," Shah added.The movie 'Welcome to Kashmir' aims to promote Kashmiri culture and showcase its beauty and positivity to the world. The director of the movie, Tariq Bhat, wants to take the audience on a journey through Kashmir with his debut movie, where the beauty of the land is surpassed only by the warmth and resilience of its inhabitants. The movie delves into crucial issues that plague Kashmir, such as women's empowerment, women's safety, drug addiction, and the role of the J-K Police."The movie is a message of hope, positivity, and empowerment for the people of Kashmir. It aims to break stereotypes, presenting a true and positive image of Kashmir, its people, and its culture," Bhat said.With the upcoming G20 summit on tourism to be hosted in Srinagar, Shah said it provides a great opportunity to promote tourism in J-K."We can promote adventure tourism, film tourism, and relish tourism besides other sectors as well," Shah added.As the UT government takes the initiative to promote film tourism, J-K is poised to attract filmmakers from all over the world to shoot their movies, web series, and serials in the UT With its natural beauty and cultural heritage, J-K is all set to become a prime destination for the film industry.ANI07 May 2023

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Indian Army joins locals for Buddha Purnima at Tak Tsang Gompa in Arunachal

Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), May 7: The Indian Army and locals came together to celebrate Buddha Purnima at Tak Tsang Gompa near the beautiful Sungetsar Lake in Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Indian Army joins locals for Buddha Purnima at Tak Tsang Gompa in Arunachal

Tak Tsang Gompa is one of the three locations where Guru Padmasambhava, the revered deity of the area meditated with his spiritual consort Monmo Tashi Khewdey who was in the manifestation of a Tigress, hence the name Tak-Tsang or 'Tiger's Nest'.This beautiful Gompa, perched in the wilderness of mountains at a height of 12,500 feet and close to the famous Sungetsar Lake is revered by locals and visited by thousands of tourists who visit Tawang every year, informed an official release.It is believed that Padmasambhava or Lopon Pema Jungne the Lotus Born Guru, a teacher from the famous ancient Nalanda University of Central India meditated here prior to moving on to Tibet for spreading Buddhism.Historically, in the 8th Century AD Guru Padmasambhava was invited by the Tibetan King Trisong Detsen to teach Buddhism and it was under Guru Padmasambhava's supervision that the first Buddhist Monastery of Samye was established."Guru Padmasambhava, through his spiritual powers, subdued the evil spirits of Tibet and made them take a pledge to protect Buddhism and its followers. Guru Padmasambhava started the new form of spiritual Buddhism which eventually is known as Nyingma and its followers as Nyingmapas," it read.Buddhism has many similarities with Hinduism as it emanated from the heartland of India. Akin to the Hindu's belief that Lord Hanuman was born but is immortal, Buddhists believe that Guru Padmasambhava is still alive in Ihonup Sinpok Yul in his Copper Palace.The design of Tak Tsang Gonpa is called 'Zangdok Palri' which means the 'Copper Coloured Palace', thus the significance of Tak Tsang Gompa.The Indian Army assisted in the celebrations as well as participated along with the local population.The enthusiastic celebrations commenced with the offering of prayers in the Gompa and were followed by a medical camp organised by the Indian Army wherein the locals were provided with medical check-ups and medicines. A community meal was also organised for all the villagers.The local unit of the Indian Army gifted chairs for the students at the Gompa.The celebrations of Buddha Purnima were marked by religious and festive fervour, care and compassion for elders and respect for the environment true to the ethos of Indian Buddhism. It also reaffirmed the civil-military bonhomie in the area.ANI07 May 2023

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Study finds air pollution association with risk of dementia

Washington, May 7: An worldwide study commissioned by the journal Lancet three years ago revealed 12 modifiable risk factors for dementia, including three new ones: excessive alcohol consumption, brain damage, and air pollution.

Study finds air pollution association with risk of dementia

The findings of the study were published in the journal of Alzheimer's Disease, a team of researchers led by experts at the University of California San Diego expands on how exposure to the final of those new factors, ambient air pollution, such as car exhaust and power plant emissions, is connected with a significantly increased risk of acquiring dementia over time.Senior author William S. Kremen, PhD, professor of psychiatry and co-director of the Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging at UC San Diego School of Medicine, and colleagues examined baseline cognitive assessments of approximately 1,100 men participating in the ongoing Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging. Average baseline age was 56, with 12 years of follow up.They additionally looked at measures of exposure to particular matter (PM2.5) in the air and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), which is created when fossil fuels are burned, and assessments of episodic memory, executive function, verbal fluency, brain processing speed and APOE genotype.APOE is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein crucial to the transport of cholesterol and other fats in the bloodstream. One version or allele of APOE called APOE-4 has been identified as a strong risk factor gene for Alzheimer's disease.The researchers found that participants with higher levels of exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 in their 40s and 50s displayed worse cognitive functioning in verbal fluency from age 56 to 68. And persons with the APOE-4 allele appeared even more sensitive, with those exposed to higher PM2.5 levels showing worse outcomes for executive function and those with higher NO2 exposure showing worse outcomes involving episodic memory.Executive function refers to higher-level cognitive skills used to plan, control and coordinate mental behaviors and acts. Episodic memory is the ability to recall and re-experience distinct, specific past events."The 2020 Lancet report concluded that modifying 12 risk factors, which include others like education and depression at midlife, could reduce dementia incidence by as much as 40%," said first author Carol E. Franz, PhD, professor of psychiatry and co-director of the Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging."That report placed ambient air pollution as a greater risk for Alzheimer's and related dementias than diabetes, physical activity, hypertension, alcohol consumption and obesity. Our findings underscore the importance of identifying modifiable risk factors as early in life as possible -- and that the processes by which air pollution affects risk for later-life cognitive decline begins earlier than previous studies suggest."ANI07 May 2023

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157 crorepatis candidates contesting in Bengaluru regions 28 seats: Report

New Delhi, May 7: Of the 384 candidates contesting on 28 Assembly seats in Karnataka's Bengaluru from various parties, 157 are 'crorepatis', according to a new report.

157 crorepatis candidates contesting in Bengaluru region's 28 seats: Report

As per the Karnataka Election Watch, Bengaluru Election Watch, and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), which analysed the self-sworn affidavits of 384 out of 389 candidates, contesting in the 28 constituencies of Bengaluru region in the May 10 Assembly elections, 157 candidates, which is 41 per cent of the total candidates analysed, are crorepatis.The report stated that 87 candidates, which is 23 per cent of the total, have declared their assets as more than Rs 5 crore, while there are 37 candidates, which is 10 per cent, have declared assets between Rs 2 crore to Rs 5 crore.It also highlighted that there are 76 candidates who have declared their assets between Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore and 70 candidates have declared assets between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 50 lakh.There are also 114 candidates, which is 29 per cent of the 384 candidates, who have assets less than Rs 10 lakh.Highlighting the role of money power in elections, the report noted that all major political parties gave tickets to wealthy candidates.It said among the major parties, 26 (96 per cent) out of 27 candidates analysed from the Congress, 27 (96 per cent) out of 28 candidates analysed from the ruling BJP, 21 (88 per cent) out of 24 candidates analysed from the JD-S and 25 (89 per cent) out of 28 candidates analysed from the AAP have declared assets valued more than Rs 1 crore.The report also stated that the average of assets per candidate contesting in the 28 constituencies of Bengaluru region is Rs 24.48 crore."Among major parties, the average assets for 27 Congress candidates analysed is Rs 145.26 crore, 28 BJP candidates analysed is Rs 63 crore, and 24 JD-S candidates have average assets of Rs 54.97 crore," it said.Of the 3 candidates with highest declared assets, contesting in the 28 constituencies of Bengaluru region, the top position is held by Yousuf Shariff, who is contesting from Chickpet assembly seat as an independent candidates, and has assets worth Rs 1,633 crore.Shariff is followed by Congress candidate Priyakrishna, who is contesting from Govindarajanagar assembly seat and has assets worth Rs 1,156 crore.On the third spot in the list of wealthiest candidates in Begaluru region is Congress' Suresha B.L., who is contesting from Hebbal Assembly seat, and has declared assets worth Rs 648 crore.Polling for the 224 member Karnataka Assembly will take place on May 10 in single phase and counting of votes will take place on May 13.The ruling BJP and the main oppoisition Congress are engaged in bitter fight in the assembly polls.IANS08 May 2023

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Foreign Secretary Kwatra to visit US for strategic trade dialogue

New Delhi, May 7: India's Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra is likely to visit Washington this month, where he is expected to attend the first strategic trade dialogue between the two nations.

Foreign Secretary Kwatra to visit US for strategic trade dialogue

According to official sources, the dates of the visit will be announced at a later date.The strategic trade dialogue will allow the two sides to address issues of export controls, explore ways of enhancing high-technology commerce, and facilitate technology transfer.Kwatra is expected to hold talks with officials of the US Department of Commerce.IANS08 May 2023

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AIUDF MLA praises BJP minister in Assam, party fumes

Guwahati, May 7: The All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) has issued a show-cause notice to one of its MLAs for publicly praising a BJP Minister in Assam, a senior party leader said on Sunday.

AIUDF MLA praises BJP minister in Assam, party fumes

Nijam Uddin Choudhury, who is an MLA from Algapur constituency in southern Assam was asked to answer within seven days, as per the notice issued to him."It has come to our notice that you made a public statement appreciating Minister Pijush Hazarika to be our man and also we are his men, which has become viral in the social media on 3rd May, 2023," AIUDF General Secretary Hafiz Bashir Ahmed said in the notice to Choudhury.According to Ahmed, Choudhury's comments have violated AIUDF principles and status, harming the party's reputation and igniting "serious controversies" in the political sector.He stated in the notification that using such statements are examples of serious misconduct and would result in disciplinary action.Hazarika is in charge of a number of portfolios, including information and public relations, water resources, and parliamentary affairs in the BJP-led government in Assam.IANS08 May 2023

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Sweden summons Iranian ambassador over execution of Habib Chaab

Stockholm, May 7: Sweden on Sunday summoned Iran's acting ambassador to protest against the execution of Habib Chaab, a dual Swedish-Iranian national who had been convicted of leading an Arab separatist group accused of attacks in 2018, reported CNN.

Sweden summons Iranian ambassador over execution of Habib Chaab

"The death penalty is an inhuman and irreversible punishment and Sweden, together with the rest of the EU, condemns its use under any circumstances," the Swedish Foreign Ministry said in a statement Saturday.Iran on Saturday executed a Swedish-Iranian dual national accused of spearheading a separatist group blamed by Tehran for a string of attacks in the country.The judiciary's Mizan News said Habib Chaab, the leader of the Harakat al-Nidal group, was executed on Saturday, calling him the "mastermind" of an attack that killed 29 people in Ahvaz in 2018, reported Anadolu Agency.Iran considers Harakat al-Nidal to be a terrorist group.The EU also condemned the execution of a Swedish-Iranian dual national, reported Anadolu Agency."The European Union condemns in the strongest terms the execution in Iran of Swedish-Iranian national Habib Chaab and recalls yet again its strong opposition against the application of capital punishment in any circumstance," it said in a statement.It offered condolences to Chaab's family and expressed its full solidarity with Sweden, according to the statement that said the death penalty violates the inalienable right to life and it is the "ultimate cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment."Executions have risen in Iran following a nationwide uprising sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini last September, according to reports released by rights groups.According to a joint report issued by the Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) and the France-based Together Against the Death Penalty (ECPM) groups revealed at least 500 executions were carried out last year - a 75 per cent increase from the previous year.The increase was Tehran's way of trying to frighten protesters and prevent dissent, groups said.ANI08 May 2023

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Erdogan claims 1.7 million people attended his mass rally in Istanbul

Ankara, May 7: With less than a week left for presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkiye, the country's president Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a mass rally in Istanbul on Sunday with at least 1.7 million people attending, Turkish News Agency Anadolu reported.

Erdogan claims 1.7 million people attended his mass rally in Istanbul

Recep Tayyip Erdogan hailed the massive crowd of people at the Istanbul rally and recalled his government's achievements over the last 21 years.The Turkish leader said his government had tripled the national income over the past 21 years, News Agency Anadolu reported."In 21 years, we have provided jobs and food to 21 million people added to our population. We built 10.5 million new houses in 21 years and provided families home," he added.He criticized the Turkish opposition over their inimical rhetoric on homegrown drones and combat drones and pledged to further enhance the country's defence industry, News Agency Anadolu reported.On energy, Erdogan recalled the billions of dollars worth of natural gas and oil reserves discovered in the Black Sea and Turkiye's southern Gabar area that have been put at the disposal of the Turkish nation.Erdogan also said his government is implementing the "Great Istanbul Tunnel Project," which he said "will be the third tube to run through beneath the Sea of Marmara.""We are preparing Istanbul for the Century of Turkiye, and Istanbul will be the locomotive for the rise of the Century of Turkiye," he added.The elections in Turkiye will take place on May 14. On the presidential ballot, voters will choose between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, seeking reelection, leading opposition candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu, Muharrem Ince, and Sinan Ogan, News Agency Anadolu reported.Meanwhile, 24 political parties and 151 independent candidates are vying for seats in the 600-member Turkish parliament.ANI08 May 2023

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Congress is talking of separating Karnataka from India: PM Modi

Mysuru, May 7: Levelling fresh allegations against the Congress party, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the party of demanding the separation of Karnataka from the country.

Congress is talking of separating Karnataka from India: PM Modi

The Prime Minister was addressing his last election rally during the Karnataka campaign.Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said, "When it comes to working against the interests of India, the royal family of the Congress party is at the forefront. They openly incite foreign powers to influence the politics in India"."In this election, Congress has said that they want to protect the sovereignty of Karnataka. It means that Congress is advocating for Karnataka's separation from India. The disease of the 'Tukde Tukde' gang will reach this high in Congress, I had never thought," he added.He further accused the Congress party of "insulting" the Kannada freedom fighters who participated in India's freedom struggle."Congress has a history of dividing brothers, making states fight among themselves, and leaving no stone unturned in inciting communal violence. Whenever Congress party comes to power, the confidence of terrorists and criminals get emboldened. They are assured of being protected by the Congress party. We have seen how Congress has repeatedly come in support of terrorists," he said.The Prime Minister also slammed the Congress party for "abusing" the OBC and Lingayat community."All they can see is Vote Bank politics. What they did with Bajrang Bali, that is also a result of appeasement. We all know what they did with Ram Temple. When we promote the pilgrimages of Kashi Vishwanath, Kedarnath and Ujjain Mahakal Mahalok, Congress feels displeasured," he said.PM Modi added, "India has been a world power in terms of spices since ancient times. But, under Congress we were even losing the identity of our turmeric. BJP has promoted our spices across the world, and now demand is again increasing".The Prime Minister further said that there is "no corner" in the state of Karnataka, where BJP's "prosperous development" is not visible."When India's defence sector started strengthening, then Asia's biggest helicopter factory came in Karnataka. When India became the third biggest ecosystem in the world, Karnataka became the startup capital. When railways progressed in the country, then its development also picked pace in Karnataka," he said.He further added that for Karnataka, the election is about creating a new history and making Karnataka the number 1 state in the country."For Karnataka, this election is about creating a new history. This election is about making Karnataka the number one state in the country. And, I am happy that the people of the state have reposed faith in BJP's double-engine government," the Prime Minister said.Earlier in the day, PM Modi also addressed a rally in Shivamogga, during the last phase of the campaigning for the assembly elections in Karnataka.Karnataka will go to polls on May 10 and the votes will be counted on May 13.ANI08 May 2023

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Shuttle diplomacy resumes: South Korea, Japan seek to deepen cooperation

Seoul, May 7: South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol said on Sunday that he agreed with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida that the two countries should join hands to address growing security threats in Asia.

Shuttle diplomacy resumes: South Korea, Japan seek to deepen cooperation

Cooperation between Japan and South Korea is necessary for global peace and prosperity, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said as he met with Kishida, reported Taiwan News.This is the first such bilateral visit by a Japanese leader in more than 12 years. Japan-South Korea ties reached their lowest point in decades under the left-wing administration of Yoon's predecessor, Moon Jae In, over wartime issues that included a labor compensation row, preventing the two countries from pursuing critical diplomatic negotiations.The visit, which came on the heels of a March trip to Tokyo by Yoon, was largely focused on maintaining momentum for bettering ties after the relationship plummeted in 2018 to its lowest point in years over wartime history and other issues, reported the japan times.Unresolved historical disputes should not block South Korea and Japan from deepening ties in the face of international crises, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said.Kishida stressed Japan's "unwavering" commitment to standing by past government stances on the two neighbors' shared history, including the 1998 joint declaration that expressed "deep remorse and heartfelt apology" for Japan's wartime aggression."This position will remain unchanged in the future," Kishida told a joint news conference with Yoon, reported the japan times."My heart aches as many people went through very difficult and sad experiences in the harsh environment at that time," he added.The pledge by the leaders to boost cooperation has been welcomed by the United States as a way to better confront threats from North Korea and competition from China, reported Taiwan News.Kishida, who is scheduled to host the Group of Seven summit in his constituency of Hiroshima later this month, has been eager to achieve reconciliation with South Korea, as the United States, their close ally, has become warier of the security situation in Asia.Kishida's visit - the first formal talks in over a decade involving a Japanese leader in Seoul - returns the trip Yoon made to Tokyo in March, where they sought to close a chapter on the historical disputes that have dominated Japan-South Korea relations for decades.Kishida's remarks could give Yoon space to manoeuvre amid opposition to a closer relationship with Japan without a fresh apology, especially as the two look to bolster security ties in the face of nuclear-armed North Korea, reported the japan times."It took 12 years for shuttle diplomacy to resume, but it took less than two months for the two of us to travel back and forth," Yoon said before the meeting. "I believe that this is confirmation that the newly restarted South Korea-Japan relationship is picking up speed and continuing to move forward."ANI08 May 2023

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SCHOHARIE  A limousine company operator on trial for a crash that killed 20 people in upstate New York was portrayed by a prosecutor Monday as directly responsible for the deaths, while a defense lawyer argued he was simply in the dark about mechanical problems likely to blame for the wreck.

Nauman Hussain, operator of Prestige Limousine, is charged with criminally negligent homicide and second-degree manslaughter in connection with the 2018 crash in Schoharie, a village west of Albany. The victims included Moravia resident Brian Hough, 46, who was a SUNY Oswego professor, along with his father-in-law, James Schnurr, 70, of Kerhonkson. They were standing in the parking lot where the limo crashed.

During opening statements Monday, special prosecutor Frederick Rench said Hussain intentionally failed to follow regulations for maintaining the 2001 Ford Excursion stretch SUV, which was loaded with friends on an outing when it spun out of control on a hill and crashed into a parked car, trees and an embankment.

Hussain did not have the authority to operate his limo business, which was placed out of service multiple times before the tragedy, Rench said. The vehicle's aging brakes, he said, had not been replaced.

Nauman Hussain never followed any regulations, Rench said, pointing to Hussain who was looking down at a table in front of him. Nauman Hussain was completely aware of the unjustifiable risk that he alone had created and that he alone consciously disregarded.

Operator in limo crash that killed 20 goes on trial in NY SCHOHARIE  Nearly five years after a stretch limousine packed with birthday revelers careened down a hill and off a road in rural upstate New

Defense lawyer Lee Kindlon told the jury Hussain was not to blame.

Hussain, then in his 20s, was inexperienced in running a business and relied on professionals to make sure things were done properly, Kindlon said.

He blamed the problems with the vehicle on the shop Hussain used for repair work, Mavis Discount Tires.

The accident was caused by the fraud and failure of Mavis to fix the breaks, and the incompetence of the state of New York to uncover their misconduct, Kindlon told the jury. Finding a scapegoat condemning the least powerful person involved and declaring victory is not justice.

Lawyers for Mavis Discount Tires, which is not on trial but is being sued by the families of the victims, have denied that the repair shop is at fault.

The group that rented the limo were en route to a brewery Oct. 6, 2018, for birthday celebrations when the limos brakes failed to stop the SUV on a downhill stretch of road in Schoharie. The vehicle blew through an intersection and crashed outside a small country store. The group, which consisted of friends and family ranging in age from 24 to 34, were killed in the crash, as well as the driver and two bystanders.

The trial, which is expected to last as long as six weeks, comes after a judge rejected a plea deal last fall that would have spared Hussain prison time.
Tottenham launches investigation after Son Heung-mins alleged racial abuse

London [United Kingdom], May 8: Tottenham Hotspurs have launched an investigation after their South Korean winger Son Heung-min was racially abused in their 1-0 victory against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Tottenham launches investigation after Son Heung-min's alleged racial abuse

Tottenham released an official statement on Sunday which said that they are investigating the matter with the help of Metropolitan Police and Crystal Palace. They will take strict action if a person is found guilty."We are aware of an allegation of racial abuse towards Heung-Min Son during yesterday's match.Discrimination of any kind is abhorrent and has no place in society, our game and at our Club.We are working with Met Police and Crystal Palace to investigate and identify the individual involved.We will do everything in our powers to ensure that if found guilty, the individual will receive the strongest possible action - as was the case earlier this season when Son suffered similar racial abuse at Chelsea."Crystal Palace also issued a statement on the incident and they have threatened to ban the individual if he is found guilty of the act."We are aware of a video circulating online (as well as reports made directly to us) regarding an individual in the away end at Spurs yesterday, appearing to make racist gestures towards Heung-Min Son."Tottenham managed to clinch the victory with a goal from Harry Kane in the added minutes of the first half. This victory ended their four-game winless run under stand-in manager Ryan Mason.They will be back in action against Aston Villa on Saturday in the Premier League.ANI08 May 2023

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Coal Indias 2022-23 net profits rise 62 per cent

New Delhi, May 8: Coal India's (CIL) profit after tax (PAT) for financial year 2022-23 posted a massive 62 per cent growth at Rs 28,125 crores compared to Rs 17,378 crores of 2021-22, thereby sustaining strong financial fundamentals.

Coal India's 2022-23 net profits rise 62 per cent

Climbing to an all-time high, the annual net profits bested the previous high of Rs 17,464 Crores recorded in 2018-19 by 61 per cent, according to coal major's data released on Sunday.The company attributed higher volume sales and increased premiums in e-auction for the company's profitability.Further, its revenue from operations was at Rs 1,38,252 crore in 2022-23, as against 1,09,715 crore in 2021-22.The company's Board that met on Sunday also recommended the payment of a final dividend of Rs four per share to its investors. Earlier in two tranches a total dividend of Rs 20.25 per share was already paid out.A dividend is a reward that companies often provide to their shareholders, though not mandatory, from a portion of their earnings.ANI08 May 2023

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Haryana to create skill development plan in each district

Chandigarh, May 8: Haryana Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kasuhal on Monday said the district-level agencies, led by an Additional Deputy Commissioner, will be reconstituted and strengthened to create a comprehensive skill development plan in each district.

Haryana to create skill development plan in each district

The primary objective of this initiative is to equip individuals with the specific skills required in various industries and design training programmes that cater to the needs of the local industry.At a meeting of the Haryana Skill Development Mission (HSDM) and its implementation strategy, virtually attended by Additional Deputy Commissioners, the Chief Secretary emphasised the importance of engaging Class XII dropout students, particularly in Nuh district, in skill development programmes.He directed officials to launch a special campaign to disseminate information about various training programmes and encourage students to enrol in them. This will also enhance the employability of these students.The Chief Secretary directed the officials to organise functions to distribute skill development certificates to the candidates. This initiative aims to recognise and celebrate the successful completion of skill development programs by individuals and acknowledge their efforts towards enhancing their employability.Besides, he also suggested to the officers to invite successful industrialists and motivational speakers to address the candidates, which would instil a sense of confidence and determination in them.This would also provide an opportunity for individuals to learn from industry leaders and gain valuable insights into various industries, he added.Kaushal said the Chief Minister in his Budget speech for 2023-24 announced that in order to promote employment opportunities for Haryanvi youth abroad, the government has operationalised the establishment of the Haryana Overseas Placement Cell in the Foreign Cooperation Department of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University and Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Department.IANS08 May 2023

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Jackie Shroff organises free medical camp, raises awareness on World Thalassemia Day

Mumbai, May 8: On the occasion of World Thalassemia Day, actor Jackie Shroff urged people to spread awareness about it among people.

Jackie Shroff organises free medical camp, raises awareness on World Thalassemia Day

Talking to ANI, Jackie Shroff said, "We are trying to spread awareness about Thalassemia. In kids after every 15 days, blood has to be tested and fresh blood is transfused. The parents are not aware that blood needs to be tested. This is a small thing and awareness should be spread in rural areas too, so that it can be stopped from spreading. Kids are suffering a lot. Seeing their children, parents too are in pain. Before marriage people should get Thalassemia minor checked. "He organised a free medical camp to spread awareness among the tribal people and the forest officers residing there.Every year on May 8, World Thalassemia Day is commemorated to improve public and policymaker awareness of thalassemia, a chronic blood condition. The Thalassemia International Federation established the day to encourage and improve the morale of individuals who have fought the deadly disease for years.Thalassemia is a blood disorder which passes down through families and results in an insufficient amount of haemoglobin in the blood, which is responsible for carrying oxygen.ANI08 May 2023

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Sonam Kapoor starts speech with Namaste at King Charles coronation concert

Mumbai, May 8: Actress Sonam Kapoor, who attended the King Charles's coronation concert held in London, gave a desi touch to begin her speech as she greeted the audience with a Namaste.

Sonam Kapoor starts speech with 'Namaste' at King Charles coronation concert

Sonam, who was introduced on stage as the "biggest Bollywood" actor, was attending the concert with names such as Tom Cruise and Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger at the Windsor Castle.While some hailed the actor for her 'proud moment', others called her speech as 'embarrassing'.Sonam said "Our Commonwealth is a union. Together we are one third of the world's people, one third of the world's ocean, one quarter of the world's land. Each of our countries is unique. Each of our people is special. But we choose to stand this one.""Learning from our history, blessed by our diversity, driven by our values and determined to build a more peaceful, sustainable and prosperous future for everyone, where every voice is heard. Without further ado, here's welcoming the incredible voices from across the Commonwealth."Sonam's mother Sunita Kapoor also shared the clip on her Instagram."So proud! Such an honour!" she captioned the short clip.On the work front, Sonam is gearing up for 'Blind'.IANS08 May 2023

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Vidyut Jammwal visits Golden Temple, cleans utensils for seva

Amritsar, May 8: Ahead of the release of his maiden production 'IB 71', Bollywood action star Vidyut Jammwal visited the Golden Temple to seek blessings and also did seva, during which he was seen cleaning the utensils.

Vidyut Jammwal visits Golden Temple, cleans utensils for seva

Vidyut was seen praying at the temple after which he did seva dressed in an all white ensemble.The 'Commando' star is also expected to visit the Wagah Border and pay his respect to those who serve the nation.Directed by the National-Award winning filmmaker Sankalp Reddy, 'IB 71' is headlined and produced by Vidyut Jammwal. It tells the story of the Ganga hijack of 1971, which helped India gain a strategic advantage over Pakistan.'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.The film is produced by Vidyut Jammwal and Abbas Sayyed, and 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.IANS08 May 2023

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Manoj on Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai: Its inspiring story of an ordinary man who fought an extraordinary case

Mumbai, May 8: The trailer of courtroom drama 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' starring Manoj Bajpayee was unveiled on Monday, and the acclaimed actor said that it's an inspiring story of an ordinary man who fought an extraordinary case against all odds for truth and justice.

Manoj on 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai': It's inspiring story of an ordinary man who fought an extraordinary case

Manoj Bajpayee said, "Portraying the role of P. C. Solanki in 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' has been an incredible experience as it is the inspiring story of an ordinary man who fought an extraordinary case against all odds for truth and justice.""With the trailer out today, I hope that it appeals to the viewers and compels them to witness this story of victory and what all it took for Solanki to achieve what he did".It is the story of an ordinary man - a high court lawyer who single-handedly fought an extraordinary case for the rape of a minor under the POCSO act. The film shows that in the battle between ordinary man's willpower and power of a self-styled godman, it is always the victory of willpower and no man is above the law.Director Apoorv Singh Karki, added, "'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' will always be special to my heart as it marks my first directorial debut in the industry and I couldn't be happier to work Manoj Bajpayee as the lead actor. I think this is one of Manoj sir's finest performance and the way he has portrayed an ordinary man's extraordinary fight will be remembered for a long time."Producer Vinod Bhanushali says, "A courtroom drama that makes you question about people's faith and beliefs iamp; question what's right and wrong. Bandaa is the braveness of this little girl and the unwavering fight of justice by PC Solanki.""It is Manoj Bajpayee's interpretation of Solanki ji's character, Apoorv's dedication and passion to bring this story to life with Suparn's expertise that makes Bandaa what it is."Suparn S Varma adds, "Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai will show you one such story that will inspire you with the courage of a young girl, and the power of a common man who uses the system in his fight for justice and addresses several important themes like faith, power and willpower."A Zee Studios and Bhanushali Studios Limited presentation, Suparn S Varma's courtroom drama 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' is directed by Apoorv Singh Karki, produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Asif Sheikh iamp; Vishal Gurnani and co-produced by Juhi Parekh Mehta.'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai' is all set to premiere exclusively on ZEE5 on May 23.IANS08 May 2023

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Saamana: Pawar resignation nautanki ended, foiled BJP plans to break NCP

Mumbai, May 8: The four-day-long 'resignation' drama of Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar ended, but ruined the Bharatiya Janata Party's plans to break his 24-year-old party, which is an ally of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), the Shiv Sena (UBT) observed here on Monday.

Saamana: Pawar resignation 'nautanki' ended, foiled BJP plans to break NCP

In an editorial in the party's newspapers, 'Saamana' and 'Dopahar Ka Saamana', the party said that Pawar's decision to step down as NCP supremo sparked not only panic but created a national political upheaval."Pawar is like the mythical banyan tree in politics. He broke away from the Congress, formed, ran and built up the NCP independently. However, he has not prepared the leadership which can take it forward after him and failed to produce a successor," rued the edit.It recounted the four-days of political palpitations witnessed all over the country, how all NCP workers were trembling and shaken to the core, worried over its future and strongly opposed the move.Bowing to all-round sentiments, the towering national political leader finally relented and Pawar will continue as the NCP president.The Shiv Sena (UBT) slammed the BJP which criticised the NCP imbroglio as a 'nautanki', and sarcastically advised that "before accusing others, first they should look at their own Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is known as the world's biggest gimmick"."The BJP has come up by breaking other parties or homes. They had a plan to break the NCP, just like the Shiv Sena (in 2022). People were ready with their (money) bags and even the 'lodging-boarding' arrangements for the newcomers were completed," claimed the Saamana Group.However, owing to Pawar's game, the BJP's plan was dumped into the dustbin and its tummy-ache has increased, it noted.The Saamana Group pointed out how one section in NCP wanted Pawar to take the party into the BJP camp and free his associates from the harassment of the ED, CBI, Income Tax shenanigans, but he put his foot down.Referring to Pawar's move to appoint a mini-bus committee to nominate his successor, the Saamana Group said it comprised many who were apparently planning to join the BJP."The pressures and sentiments of the workers were so strong that the committee had to inform him that thereafter, its only you' (as President), and rejected Pawar's resignation. The curtain fell on the drama. His return brought consciousness back to the NCP, and state and national opposition parties also heave a sigh of relief," said the edits.The Saamana Group said though Pawar had no choice but to retract, the resignation drama provided him with an idea of where exactly the NCP stands and where are the hearts of those around him, while declaring that "those who want to leave the NCP are free to go, I will not stop them".Suspecting that the bookings in the BJP's lodging-boarding have not been cancelled, the Saamana Group cautioned that those who go there "will be finished by the people, no matter how big they are".It cited how the condition of those who split and left to join (Chief Minister Eknath Shinde)'s Shiv Sena is now worse than stray dogs in the bins."BJP doesn't want to win elections in a democratic manner, they play the politics of breaking others through ED, CBI, ITa. But, it's better to live like a tiger for one day instead of a goat for 100 days" the edits said.The Saamana Group pointed out that Pawar has said he will fight till the end, Uddhav Thackeray, Lalu Prasad, K. Chandrashekar Rao, Mamata Banerjee, M. K. Stalin and others have also come out to fight along with their workers.IANS08 May 2023

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New smart surgical implant coatings can warn implant failure, cut infection

New York, May 8: US researchers have developed a new smart coating for surgical orthopaedic implants which can monitor strain on the devices to provide early warning of implant failures while also killing infection-causing bacteria.

New smart surgical implant coatings can warn implant failure, cut infection

The coatings, developed by a team at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, integrate flexible sensors with a nanostructured antibacterial surface inspired by the wings of dragonflies and cicadas.In the study, detailed in the journal Science Advances, the coatings prevented infection in live mice and mapped strain in commercial implants applied to sheep spines to warn of various implant or healing failures."This is a combination of bio-inspired nanomaterial design with flexible electronics to battle a complicated, long-term biomedical problem," said Qing Cao, Professor of materials science and engineering at the varsity.Both infection and device failure are major problems with orthopaedic implants, each affecting up to 10 per cent of patients, Cao said.Several approaches to fighting infection have been attempted, but all have severe limitations, he said. "Biofilms can still form on water-repelling surfaces, and coatings laden with antibiotic chemicals or drugs run out in a span of months and have toxic effects on the surrounding tissue with little efficacy against drug-resistant strains of bacterial pathogens."Taking inspiration from the naturally antibacterial wings of cicadas and dragonflies, the team created a thin foil patterned with nanoscale pillars like those found on the insects' wings. When a bacterial cell attempts to bind to the foil, the pillars puncture the cell wall, killing it."Using a mechanical approach to killing bacteria allowed us to bypass a lot of the problems with chemical approaches, while still giving us the flexibility needed to apply the coating to implant surfaces," said Gee Lau, a pathobiology professor, at the varsity.On the back side of the nanostructured foil, where it contacts the implant device, the researchers integrated arrays of highly sensitive, flexible electronic sensors to monitor strain.This could help physicians watch the healing progress of individual patients, guide their rehabilitation to shorten the recovery time and minimise risks, and repair or replace devices before they hit the point of failure, the researchers said.To test their prototype devices, the team implanted the foils in live mice and monitored them for any sign of infection, even when bacteria were introduced.They also applied the coatings to commercially available spinal implants and monitored strain to the implants in sheep spines under normal load for device failure diagnosis. The coatings performed both functions well.The prototype electronics required wires, but the researchers next plan to develop wireless power and data communications interfaces for their coatings, a crucial step for clinical application, Cao said. They also are working to develop large-scale production of the nanopillar-textured bacteria-killing foil."These types of antibacterial coatings have a lot of potential applications, and since ours uses a mechanical mechanism, it has potential for places where chemicals or heavy metal ions -- as are used in commercial antimicrobial coatings now -- would be detrimental," Cao said.IANS08 May 2023

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Dekra Group, a German testing, inspection and certification group with more than 48,000 employees globally, will expand its laboratory space in Hefei, Anhui province, to serve the rapidly expanding information technology, household appliances and electric vehicle industries in China's eastern region, said a senior executive. Many opportunities come from China's moves in pursuing sustainable growth, the introduction of foreign trade and consumption stimulus packages and rapid industrial upgrading pace, said Mike Walsh, executive vice-president of Dekra and the group's head of the Asia-Pacific region. Attracted by fast-growing industries like information technology and electric vehicle manufacturing, the Stuttgart, Germany-based group will increase its investment in inland cities, including Wuhan, Hubei province, Xi'an, Shaanxi province, and Chongqing municipality in the coming years. "These cities have strong industrial and educational resources from excellent universities that can support both our market and recruitment needs," said the executive, who visited several Chinese cities to seek new business opportunities in March this year. With China entering a new era of green and innovation-led growth, Walsh said that the country has made great efforts to support industrial and business development. The German company has benefited considerably, especially in areas such as renewable energy, automotive manufacturing and green development, as well as high-tech fields, such as semiconductors. China's auto industry certainly has been heading in that direction  the country shipped 994,000 vehicles to other parts of the world in the first quarter, soaring 70.6 percent year-on-year, while new-energy vehicle exports more than doubled to 248,000 units, data from the Beijing-based China Association of Automobile Manufacturers showed. Given China's growing export volume, fast industrial upgrading and the latest opening-up measures, Walsh predicts that Dekra's sales revenue will soar up to 20 percent on a yearly basis in China this year. Since China has become a major player in the renewable energy market and is already the world's largest producer of photovoltaic products, Dekra opened a renewable testing center in Shanghai last year. It is also working with a number of domestic companies in the fields of energy storage and hydrogen energy to enhance its innovation strength. As the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership pact has created favorable conditions to spur foreign trade and investment activities, Walsh said that export-related testing and certification services account for more than half of international testing, inspection and certification businesses in China. Free trade agreements will undoubtedly boost China's import and export significantly, providing important potential growth for our company, he added. "For example, we plan to use the technological capabilities accumulated in China to develop our operations in Southeast Asia," said Walsh, adding that the RCEP pact is well aligned with their overall development plan for the Asia-Pacific region in terms of market and business management. China's imports and exports with other participating countries of the RCEP rose 7.3 percent on a yearly basis to 3.08 trillion yuan ($445.65 billion) between January and March this year, accounting for 31.2 percent of its total foreign trade, according to the General Administration of Customs. Established in 1925, Dekra to date has built a market presence in more than 60 countries and regions across the world. Supported by more than 2,000 employees, the company currently runs testing facilities, laboratories and offices in 14 cities in the Chinese mainland, including Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Jiangsu province and Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. China's testing, inspection and certification market will experience rapid growth in the years ahead, primarily due to the government's efforts to boost the growth of sectors including transportation, energy, retail and construction, said Lin Meng, director of the Modern Supply Chain Research Institute, which is part of the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation. As many developed and developing countries require testing results and certificates issued by authorized international agencies, China has already implemented favorable policies to facilitate global players to establish operational facilities and encouraged them to add investment, Lin said.
The proposed budget going before Moravia Central School District voters later this month includes a 7.67% spending increase, but a much smaller increase in property taxes.

The $28,676,344 budget proposal for Moravia's 2023-24 school year, as explained in a newsletter on the district's website, grows overall spending by $2,043,483. Revenue sources include an estimated tax levy jump of 1.5%.

Moravia's fiscal plan continues the district's efforts in addressing the post-COVID-19 pandemic social emotional and academic needs of students, the newsletter said, including adding a district-wide adaptive physical education teacher and a social-emotional-learning interventionist at Millard Fillmore Elementary School.

Community members will also be able to vote on the proposed purchase of three 66-passenger school buses at a cost not to exceed $447,000.

Another proposition focuses on the creation of a capital reserve fund not to exceed $2 million. The fund, if approved by voters, would help pay for projects such as upgrades, renovations and repairs to school buildings, plus investments in technology and other equipment.

"By setting aside a portion of our budget each year for this purpose, we can ensure that we have the funds we need to make these important improvements when they are needed, without having to resort to more costly borrowing or tax increases," the newsletter said. "We believe that investing in our schools and their facilities is an investment in the future of our community. By maintaining our buildings and infrastructure, we can create a safer, more comfortable, and more welcoming learning environment for our students, teachers, and staff."

While any proposal for a new fund or tax "can be met with skepticism and concern," the newsletter continued, the district emphasized that the capital fund will be "carefully managed and transparently reported." The district said it will work closely with the community to identify priority projects and make sure money from the fund is used effectively and responsibly.

A third ballot proposition this year is for the Powers Library's budget of $94,500, a $15,000 increase.

The district's budget presentation is May 9. Voting for the budget, the other three propositions and three Moravia school board candidates pursuing two three-year board seat is set for 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, at the north foyer of Moravia Middle School/High School, 68 South Main St.
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Mary Lucille Hays teaches writing at the University of Illinois and at Zhejiang University in Haining, China. If youre missing your weekly dose of Birdland Letters in The News-Gazette, you can read them every week in the Piatt County Journal-Republican. Consider subscribing to support your small-town newspaper. You can see photos of her travels on Instagram (@birdlandLetters). Mary can be reached at letterfrombirdland@gmail.com or by snail mail in care of the Journal-Republican, 118 E. Washington St., Monticello, IL 61856.
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has claimed more than 6.92 million lives and infected over 765 million individuals. Most COVID-19 vaccines target the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein receptor-binding domain (RBD) to prevent the binding of SARS-CoV-2 to the host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor.

Study: Efficacy and Safety of a Protein-Based SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Image Credit: Tatevosian Yana / Shutterstock.com

Background

Preclinical studies associated with FINLAY-FR-2 (Soberana 02), a protein subunit vaccine conjugated with the tetanus toxoid carrier protein, have confirmed its effectiveness, with similar results obtained in Phases I, II, and III clinical trials. These trials have shown that FINLAY-FR-1A (Soberana Plus), an RBD dimer without conjugation, has increased neutralization capacity in COVID-19 convalescent individuals. Additionally, when this protein-based vaccine was introduced as the third dose to FINLAY-FR-2, it induced the production of anti-RBD immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies.

Several countries, including Iran, Cuba, Venezuela, Belarus, Mexico, and Nicaragua, have approved FINLAY-FR-2 and FINLAY-FR-1A vaccines for emergency use. These vaccines were developed in the Finlay Vaccine Institute of Cuba, manufactured by the Pasteur Institute of Iran, and branded as Pastocovac and Pastocovac Plus.

Recent launches of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines have raised the hopes of millions living in low-income countries. Previously, many governments across the world faced challenges due to high vaccine costs and building proper infrastructure to store and transport these vaccines at low temperatures.

Two of the critical benefits of RBD-based vaccines are rapid production and affordability. Additionally, these vaccines are stable at temperatures ranging between 2C and 8 C.

About the study

A recent JAMA Network Open study discusses the results of the randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III vaccine trial that assessed the safety profile, immunogenicity, and efficacy of FINLAY-FR-1A in Iran. To this end, Cohort 1 was used to evaluate the two-dose regimen of FINLAY-FR-2 (25 g), whereas Cohort 2 was administered a two-dose regimen of FINLAY-FR-2 with a third dose of FINLAY-FR-1A (50 g).

In this study, participants were recruited from eight different cities. Cohort 1 included 17,319 participants from six cities, and Cohort 2 comprised 5,521 volunteers from two cities.

All participants were adults between 18 and 80 years of age without SARS-CoV-2 infection or a history of COVID-19 vaccination. Furthermore, no candidates had congenital or uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, chronic liver disease, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease.

Two doses of FINLAY-FR-2 were administered intramuscularly, 28 days apart. In cohort 2, FINLAY-FR-1A was introduced as a third dose on day 56. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to measure anti-S1 IgG levels.

Study findings

The mean age of the participants was 39.3 years in Cohort 1 and 39.7 years in Cohort 2. No significant difference in age was observed between the vaccinated and placebo groups.

Two doses of FINLAY-FR-2 in cohort 1 had effectively prevented COVID-19. The vaccine efficacy (VE) of cohort 1 was estimated against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection at 49.7%, severe infection at 76.8%, and infectionrelated hospitalizations at 77.7%.

For cohort 2, VE was significantly higher after the third vaccine dose. More specifically, this vaccine regimen was associated with a VE of 64.9% for preventing symptomatic infection and 96.6% against severe infection and hospitalization.

The VE of the current trial was lower as compared to that of the Phase III randomized trial conducted in Cuba, which could be due to differences in the infection intensity and comorbidities of the study cohorts. Notably, the VE estimated in this study was during Delta variant dominance.

Conclusions

Effective protein-based COVID-19 vaccines could have a greater potential due to their stability and easier distribution. Likewise, the study findings indicate that FINLAY-FR-2 could be used as an affordable and effective third COVID-19 vaccine dose in resource-limited settings.

Two of the key strengths of this study are its large sample size and geographically diverse participants. Nevertheless, the current study has some limitations, including a selection of participants with controlled underlying diseases, which could influence VE.

The authors also failed to perform serological analysis for all participants at baseline due to limited resources. Since older age groups were prioritized for COVID-19 mass vaccination and previously vaccinated individuals were excluded from this trial, this could reduce the generalizability of the finding.

Despite these limitations, the FINLAY-FR-2 vaccine and FINLAY-FR-1A as a booster dose were effective against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Both FINLAY-FR-2 and FINLAY-FR-1A were well-tolerated among the participants and exhibited a prominent safety profile.
In a recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) published on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) website, researchers discussed provisional death estimates for 2022.

Background

The National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) routinely gathers and documents mortality/death data for the United States (US) each year using death certificate data. It typically takes a year to process causes of death and compile absolute annual mortality data for a given year, so NVSS releases provisional mortality data early.

Results

Between January and December 2022, per NVSS provisional mortality data, ~3,273,705 (or 3.2 million) deaths occurred in the USA, i.e., the US witnessed a decline of 5.3% from 879.7 in 2021 to 832.8 per 100,000 persons in 2022.

The data confirmed that overall age-adjusted and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)related death rates were highest among males aged 85 years and belonging to non-Hispanic Black, African Americans, non-Hispanic American Indians, and Alaskan natives.

In 2022, the top four causes of death were cancer, unintentional injuries, heart disease, and COVID-19. While deaths due to COVID-19 decreased in 2022 compared to 2021, drug overdose drove a higher number of deaths. Also, deaths due to heart disease and cancer, accounting for 695,547 and 605,213 deaths, respectively, increased in 2022 compared with 2021.

Overall mortality rates declined in the US for all age groups 15 years between 2021 and 2022, while it increased from 25 to 26.9 per 100,000 in children aged one to four years. During 2022, like in 2021, cumulative death rates were lowermost in individuals aged five to 14 years and maximum in older adults aged 85 years (14.8 vs. 15.6 per 100,000). Genderwise, between 2021 and 2022, death rates decreased by 6% and 4% among males and females, respectively.

In males, age-adjusted death rates were higher than in females in 2021 as well as 2022 at 1,048 and 733.3 and 984.8 and 700.9, respectively, though alterations in overall death rates for children below one year and aged between five to 14 years were insignificant.

Conclusions

Final mortality data is released ~11 months after the end of the data year. During this time, provisional death estimates, indicating shifts in mortality trends, could provide actionable data for researchers and policymakers. Before its release, policymakers could use provisional data to inform public health policies and design targeted interventions for reducing mortality. In the context of COVID-19, this data could help avert deaths (directly or indirectly) among people most affected, including older males or those belonging to racial/ethnic minorities.
Child protection experts are imploring clinicians to broaden their duty of care to ensure that patients hidden trauma is not overlooked by more obvious physical symptoms and illnesses.

Image Credit: University of South Australia

Its a move to reduce the growing rates of chronic disease and mental health issues in Australia, many of which are underlined by deep-seated trauma as a result of child abuse and neglect.

In an editorial published in the British Medical Journal this week, University of South Australias Professor Leonie Segal says a whole-of-person approach to medical care is vital to address poor health outcomes associated with child abuse and neglect.

There is sound evidence that child abuse and neglect is causally related to very poor health, including early death, Prof Segal says.

Many chronic diseases, including severe mental illness, chronic pain, substance use, and physical health conditions  especially those with an inflammatory pathway such as gastrointestinal, respiratory, and autoimmune disease  are more common in victims of child abuse and neglect.

Yet too often, patients present with physical symptoms that are treated, without sufficient consideration of possible underlying trauma.

We know that people who have suffered child abuse and neglect are more likely to have chronic disease, so we need to encourage clinicians to extend their care to consider possible underlying psychosocial causes.

Adopting clinical approaches that incorporate a therapeutic response to address underlying trauma  of which there are many successful models  may prove more effective than a response limited to presenting symptoms and potentially avoid extensive investigations and surgery.

Prof Segal says its clear that Australia needs to prioritize the health and welfare of people who have experienced serious child abuse and neglect, noting their very poor health outcomes, but proportionate responses are rare.

Addressing child abuse and neglect is not just a child protection issue; its a whole-of-society issue that requires an informed and proportionate response across health, social, and economic platforms. But health in particular must step up, Prof Segal says.

A change in the clinical response is a solid start. If clinicians can think about a trauma-informed biopsychosocial model of health, it could help reduce the disturbing negative health (and social) impacts of exposure to serious child abuse and neglect and help reduce the transmission of this abuse and neglect to the next generation. Extra training and skill development across the health and human services sector will be needed. But this investment will help clinicians to identify and respond sensitively and expertly to people with histories of trauma, as well as target multiple aspects of chronic health, improving clinical outcomes and reducing the need for investigations and other medical interventions. Professor Leonie Segal, University of South Australia
A public hearing on the New York State Thruway Authority's proposed toll increase will be held in the Syracuse area Tuesday.

The in-person hearing is scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. at the New York State Fairgrounds' Bistro Room. Attendees are advised to enter at gate 2 and follow signs for the Art & Home Center.

To speak at the public hearing, attendees must sign up when they arrive. Each speaker will have five minutes.

The hearing will focus on the Thruway Authority's plan to increase tolls beginning in 2024. For E-ZPass users, tolls would rise by 5% next year and another 5% in 2027. Tolls for out-of-state E-ZPass users and those who opt for tolls by mail would be 75% higher than the in-state E-ZPass rate.

Under the current toll structure, the differential is 15% for out-of-state E-ZPass holders and 30% for tolls by mail.

The Thruway Authority has said the increase is needed due to its capital needs, including several aging bridges that will need to be replaced over the next 10 years.

The central New York hearing is the second of four in-person meetings that will be held across the state. Other hearings will be held May 16 in Rockland County and May 22 in Albany County.

A virtual public hearing is set for 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, June. 5. The event will be streamed on the Thruway Authority's website, thruway.ny.gov.
Idaho criminalizes helping minors travel out of state to get an abortion Play

Mackenzie Davidson grew up in a Mormon household and sheepishly admits she knew little about pregnancy.

"This is embarrassing," she said, sitting outside a cafe along a street thronged with students in this college town. "But I didn't know that you had to have sex to have kids until I was 13 or 14."

She's a writer for the University of Idaho student newspaper, The Argonaut, and was asked recently to report on a new law. It's now a crime to help a teen under 18 leave the state for an abortion or obtain medication abortion pills without parental consent  including when the girl has been sexually assaulted or raped by a family member or parent. Gov. Brad Little, a Republican, in signing the bill, wrote that the law does not "limit an adult woman from obtaining an abortion in another state."

Davidson, 19, reached out to interview state Rep. Barbara Ehardt, a Republican co-sponsor of the bill, who touted her "Christian-based" attitude during her campaign.

"She kept saying that it was about parental rights," Davidson said. But "the thing that really caught my attention was the fact that they were calling it 'abortion trafficking.'"

The law creates a crime of "abortion trafficking" and criminalizes the "recruiting, harboring, or transporting" of minors without parental consent. In a floor speech before the Idaho Legislature voted on the bill, Ehardt said, "We are only looking to protect our children."

Idaho's "teen travel ban," as it's known here, took effect May 5, nearly 11 months after the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated the federal constitutional right to abortion. Any adult, including an aunt, grandparent, or sibling, convicted of violating the criminal statute faces up to five years in prison. Under a separate state law, family members of the pregnant minor and the sexual partner involved can sue any health care provider who helped terminate the pregnancy for financial damages.

"If youre successful, youre guaranteed $20,000 minimum, and thats per claim per relative," said Kelly O'Neill, an Idaho litigation attorney for Legal Voice, a progressive nonprofit.

"Idaho has a lot of big families," she added.

Under the new law, even when a parent gives consent, the person accompanying the minor would need to provide an "affirmative defense" proving they were acting with the permission of a parent of the teen.

"You could still be charged, arrested, perhaps even have to go all the way to a jury trial and prove in a courtroom that your sister gave you permission," O'Neill said.

Legal experts say Idaho's travel ban, based on a model bill written by National Right to Life, one of the country's largest anti-abortion groups, is designed to sidestep implied constitutional protections for interstate travel. The law targets travel assistance within and up to the state's border, effectively criminalizing medical care legally obtained in neighboring states.

"This is one of the next frontiers of abortion litigation," said David S. Cohen, a constitutional law professor at Drexel University. "Theyre clearly pushing this kind of law with other states."

In response to potential legal threats, on April 27, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, signed a series of bills barring law enforcement from cooperating with other states' abortion investigations. Those laws shield medical providers from lawsuits and protect their medical licenses from being revoked.

But in communities like Spokane, Washington, just 20 miles from the Idaho border, there is a sense of unease.

"We have staff who live in Idaho who commute," said Karl Eastlund, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Washington and North Idaho. "Its one big economic region, when you think of the border communities here."

When asked if he was concerned that medical staff members living in Idaho could be criminally charged for the abortion care they provide every day, he said, "We have told our providers we will handle all of your legal fees and well provide lawyers to help you sort out anything that happens."

He added, "Its something we think about a lot."

After Sunday morning Mass at St. Augustine's Catholic Center in Moscow, Ryan Alexander tended to his 17-month-old daughter, Penelope, as she toddled about the church courtyard. Alexander, 25, a married law student at the university here, said ending any pregnancy violates his Catholic beliefs.

He has read the text of the bill, he said, "and the way it's written is actually incredibly prudent." No adult, he said, can act in place of a parent.

"Thats just kidnapping, by any means, if you take a girl away from her parents when shes a minor and her parents have authority over her," he said.

Alexander said he understands that some teenage girls are sexually abused at home or have dysfunctional relationships with their parents. Still, he supports the law.

"When we look at situations like that, my heart goes out to them. What can I do but pray from a distance and think, how can that be better?" he said. But "two wrongs do not make a right."

Idaho patients, including teenagers, have long crossed into Washington state to legally end their pregnancies. Eastlund said fewer than 5% of the clinics' patients who come for abortion care are minors.

Most of those patients, he said, do involve their parents in the process, even though parental consent is not mandatory in Washington. Those who don't, Eastlund said, have good reason not to. Some are in dangerous, abusive situations in which disclosing a pregnancy could put them at risk of further harm.

"Were talking about sexual abuse and incest," said Eastlund, sitting upstairs at the clinic in Spokane. "Its not stuff people want to talk about, but, unfortunately, its more common than people think."

On the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, in Sandpoint, Idaho, Jen Jackson Quintano said she wants her daughter, Sylvia, 8, to have trusted adults around whom she can turn to when she's a teenager.

"I think back to my teenage years when I was in high school, I had a boyfriend that I loved, and I was sexually active," she said. At the time she thought, "If I get pregnant, I would rather just die, just end it, than have to figure this out and tell my parents."

Quintano said that while growing up in the Roman Catholic Church, she was taught that sex, contraception, and abortion were shameful, and she is raising her daughter under a different set of beliefs.

"Shame as a woman  its a powerful form of control, and I don't want her to walk that path of shame," Quintano said. "I want her to feel comfortable in her body."

Idaho's teen abortion travel ban and the financial rewards for reporting citizens who obtain abortions are already dividing the tightknit fabric of Sandpoint's community, she said.

"We dont know who to trust," Quintano said. "We dont know who we can talk to."
A recent study published in the BMJ evaluated the risks of menstrual disturbance and bleeding after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination in pre- or post-menopausal females.

Background

Menstrual disturbances have been reported to be associated with SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Studies indicate menstrual cycle changes following vaccination. Nonetheless, menstrual cycles vary naturally; minor disturbances in menstruation are generally not clinically important. But these changes can be distressful for those affected, particularly during mass vaccination when concerns emerge about adverse reactions.

While pharmacovigilance systems that rely on self-reports can identify potential safety signals, they are unsuited for estimating the frequency of health events and the strength of a potential association. As such, individual-level data are required from extensive observational studies to characterize and quantify the adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

About the study

In the present study, researchers assessed the risks of menstrual disturbance and bleeding following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pre- or post-menopausal females. They included females aged 12-74 living in Sweden on January 1, 2018, who were still Swedish residents when vaccination commenced on December 27, 2020. Subjects were excluded if they lived at special care facilities, were pregnant, had a history of breast cancer, menstruation disorders, or underwent a hysterectomy.

The team considered two risk windows  one to seven days and eight to 90 days post-vaccination and assessed the risk of menstrual disorders during these periods after each dose. Further, analyses were stratified by vaccine product (BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, and ChAdOx1). Additionally, they examined the menstrual disorder risks in non-vaccinated females following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The primary analyses were performed for the whole study population.

Additional analyses were performed for a subpopulation from Stockholm and Vastra Gotaland regions with primary healthcare data available. The researchers studied three menstrual disorders (outcomes) across restricted age groups based on healthcare contact, i.e., visit/admission to a hospital. They investigated post-menopausal bleeding in females aged 45-74 and pre-menopausal bleeding and menstrual disturbances in those aged 12-49.

Findings

Overall, more than 2.9 million females were included. Of these, 87.6% had been partially vaccinated by February 28, 2022. More than 1.6 million participants were triple vaccinated. Most diagnoses (99%) of bleeding disorders or menstrual disturbance in the overall cohort were from outpatient care. Around 11% and 19% of diagnoses of (pre- or post-menopausal) bleeding disorders and menstrual disturbance were documented in the subpopulation with primary healthcare data, respectively.

Nearly 26% of the study cohort tested SARS-CoV-2-positive between August 1, 2020, and December 25, 2020. The adjusted hazard ratio for the risk of post-menopausal bleeding after any vaccine dose was 1.12 during the first risk window and 1.14 in the second risk window relative to the non-vaccinated period. The highest risk was after receiving the third dose in both risk windows. There was a similar trend for the subpopulation, albeit the risk estimates were generally lower.

When analyses were restricted to females without previous hormone treatment, the risk estimates were slightly higher than in the primary analysis, with the highest risk observed after the third vaccination. The risk of post-menopausal bleeding was 41% and 23% higher after the third BNT162b2 dose in the first and second risk windows, respectively. The risk was 33% higher after the third mRNA-1273 dose in the second risk window.

The adjusted hazard ratios after any vaccine dose for menstrual disturbance were 1.13 and 1.06 in the first and second risk windows, respectively, relative to the non-vaccinated period. Estimates were similar for the subpopulation. Vaccine product-specific estimates for menstrual disturbance were consistent with overall risk estimates.

The adjusted hazard ratios following any vaccine dose for pre-menopausal bleeding were 1.08 and 1.01 in the 1-7 and 8-90 risk windows, respectively, with similar estimates for the subpopulation. Vaccine product-specific estimates for pre-menopausal bleeding were imprecise. The risk for three outcomes was lower within one week after a positive SARS-CoV-2 test but increased modestly within 90 days, notably for bleeding disorders.

Conclusions

In summary, the researchers observed a weak/inconsistent association of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination with healthcare contact for post-menopausal bleeding, with even less evidence (of association) with menstrual disturbance or pre-menopausal bleeding.

Overall, the results do not substantially support causal associations between vaccination and healthcare contact for bleeding/menstrual disorders.
For newborns with congenital hypothyroidism, early diagnosis spells the difference between a normal, healthy life and lifelong disability.

After learning about the heavy toll the disease takes on children born in parts of the world where testing is limited or absent, a team of Rice University students came together to develop a low-cost screening tool that can detect abnormally high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels indicative of dysfunction.

The point-of-care, paper-based test developed by team Test TSH members Alex David, Elise Erickson, Vanshika Jhonsa, Margaret Li and Alison Maniace "has the potential to impact the lives of thousands of people every year, especially in low-resource areas, allowing for early treatment and preventing the permanent disabilities that can result from untreated congenital hypothyroidism," according to Jasmine Nejad, the team's faculty mentor and a global health lecturer in the Rice360 Institute for Global Health Technologies.

Thyroid hormone is crucial to the development of infants' brain and nervous system and helps the heart, muscles and other organs function as they should. It also regulates how the body uses and stores energy and how it grows.

At birth, babies with congenital hypothyroidism look normal, there's no obvious sign of this disorder, so the main roadblock to treatment in low-resource settings is the lack of widespread screening programs." Vanshika Jhonsa

Taking inspiration from the design of the at-home COVID-19 test, the team came up with an easy-to-read test requiring only a small blood sample. They also created a 3D-printed casing for portability and to reduce the risk of infection.

Jhonsa further explained that because the thyroid gland is underactive or absent in babies born with congenital hypothyroidism, their system will try to compensate by overproducing thyroid-stimulating hormone.

" Thyroxine (T4) is responsible for the development of all body systems, including brain development, muscle development and so on," Maniace said. "A lack of T4 early in life will cause irreversible developmental delays if left untreated, which is why early-life diagnosis is so crucial."

"In the U.S., newborns are by default screened for a lot of congenital diseases, hypothyroidism being one of them," Li said. "In low-resource settings, there's no infrastructure in place to conduct widespread testing for infants, making early diagnosis difficult both in terms of cost and access."

"Testing infrastructure in the U.S. can take up a lot of space and resources, since you'll typically have several technicians running these tests," David said. "The difference between $1 or even just a few cents for a test versus the requirements of having this kind of infrastructure in place is just huge."

Nejad said the device "could also lower the cost for screening in general as well as offer an adaptable platform that could provide accessible screening for other types of thyroid dysfunction that can occur later in life."

"The beauty of this screening tool is that you can adapt it to test for different ages and even for other conditions," Jhonsa said.

The students' ability to draw from their diverse expertise in multiple fields of study earned them the Best Interdisciplinary Engineering Design Award at the George R. Brown School of Engineering's annual Huff OEDK Engineering Design Showcase held last month at the Ion. The team also won first place in the global health track of the Johns Hopkins Healthcare Design Competition and second place in the Rice360 Global Health Technologies Design Competition.

"Vanshika and Elise are social policy analysis majors, I'm in health care sciences, Alex is a biosciences major and Alison designed her own major," Li said. "We are a diverse group in terms of our background of study, and our project has an interdisciplinary aspect as well. We were working in the wet lab but also doing research on marketing and our target population."

The team's passion and drive compensated for its relative inexperience with the different aspects of the engineering design process.

"Since none of us are really engineers, being thrust into this new space was definitely challenging in the beginning," Jhonsa said. "But it was a great learning experience and it was very rewarding at the end to have a product that works."

Maniace added that it was "really inspiring to see that with a lot of passion for a project like this in global health we can actually have an impact."

Dr. Kristina Tebo, who initially pitched the idea, said she "was happy the project was accepted and am thrilled at how the team has brought it to life."

The team's clinical mentors were Dr. Selorm Dei-Tutu, assistant professor of pediatrics in the division of diabetes and endocrinology at Baylor College of Medicine and a practitioner at Texas Children's Hospital, and Tebo, assistant vice president of global health initiatives, assistant professor of pediatrics in the division of pediatric hospital medicine and co-director of the Pediatric Global Health Program at UTHealth Houston's McGovern Medical School.

"Our mentors and professors and everyone we've learned from have been incredible," David said. "The success we've had on this project really speaks to how much faculty cares about students and really puts effort into helping them see their projects through to the end."
A team of UC Davis Health scientists are establishing a new research center to study the impact of stress from everyday life on heart health in underserved communities.



Image Credit: UC Davis Health

The American Heart Association is funding the new UC Davis PRECISE Center (Psychosocial stRessors and Exposomics on CV health In underServed multiEthnic populations in Northern, California). Its part of a $13 million initiative to study the impact of chronic stress on cardiovascular disease and health.

The 2020 Stress in America survey from the American Psychological Association concluded that Americans are facing a national mental health crisis that could yield serious health and social consequences for years to come.

Stress is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease and chronic psychosocial stress has been linked to the development of atrial fibrillation, coronary heart disease and sudden cardiac death.

Psychosocial stress is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, but the mechanisms of chronic psychosocial stress on cardiovascular disease remain incompletely understood, making it difficult to design preventive or therapeutic strategies, said Nipavan Chiamvimonvat, associate chief for research in Cardiovascular Medicine and the co-director of the UC Davis Cardiovascular Research Institute. Given the disproportionately high burden of psychosocial stress among minorities and underserved populations, evaluating the association of chronic stressors with cardiovascular disease is of paramount importance.

About the UC Davis PRECISE Center

The center will be led by Chiamvimonvat, with three interdisciplinary projects. Martin Cadeiras, medical director for the Advanced Heart Failure, Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support Device Program and Javier E. Lopez, associate professor of Cardiovascular Medicine and medical director of Cardiac Rehabilitation will be leading Project 1 to recruit a diverse group of participants with different backgrounds, various psychosocial stress levels and socioeconomic status from underserved populations in California. They will investigate how societal, environmental, and biological factors may cause stress that can impact heart health.

Also on the team is Imo Ebong, associate professor of Advanced Heart Failure, Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support Device Program and Julie Bidwell, assistant professor at the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing School of Nursing .

UC Davis Health has one of the most diverse patient populations in the country, with a large representation of Latinos from the California Central Valley, Cadeiras explained. Therefore, the overarching goal of our study is to determine the effects of chronic psychosocial stress and its consequences on cardiovascular disease development among underserved multiethnic populations.

Projects 2 and 3, led by Xiaodong Zhang, associate professor in Cardiovascular Medicine, Chao-Yin Chen, professor of Pharmacology, as well as Padmini Sirish and Phung Thai, assistant researchers and early stage investigators in Cardiovascular Medicine, will use innovative animal models to study how the constellation of environmental and social stressors such as noise, overcrowding, and sleep disruption, impact cardiovascular function.

The team will also use advanced omics analyses, led by Bruce Hammock, distinguished professor in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, as well as innovative computational biology, led by Leighton Izu, professor of Pharmacology and David Liem, research scientist in Cardiovascular Medicine, to generate a functional connectome across basic science and clinical projects that will uncover key patterns in signaling pathways between stress and heart health, providing the overarching integration and insights that are greater than the individual project.

Overall, we are hoping to identify clusters of chronic psychosocial stress and study how these clusters affect multiethnic underserved populations and individuals, Chiamvimonvat said. We will determine the overall effects of chronic psychosocial stress clusters at the population level, within individual patients, and in close collaboration with an animal model of chronic psychosocial stress.

Synergy of the multidisciplinary team

The UC Davis PRECISE Center is comprised of a multidisciplinary investigative team from UC Davis in partnership with the California State University, Sacramento, a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (AANAPISI). Collaborators from Sacramento State include educational experts, psychology and social scientists, clinical psychologist, and environmental scientists.

This important work provides an opportunity to build upon the partnership between Sacramento State and UC Davis Health, said Dianne Hyson, dean of the College of Social Sciences & Interdisciplinary Studies at Sacramento State. The integrated and multifaceted studies extend our ongoing work in underserved communities and will add to the understanding of their disparate risk and related cardiovascular outcomes.

It will, furthermore, advance community partnerships and support their interdependent roles as significant drivers for innovation, economic and cultural growth. Javier E. Lopez, Associate Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine and Medical Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation

The team will also collaborate with Valley High School Health TECH Academy, directed by Rodney Black.

Nothing creates purpose and hope better than giving underserved students the ability to do something meaningful for their underserved community, said Black.

UC Davis team members are from five different departments from four different schools and colleges (School of Medicine, School of Nursing, School of Veterinary Medicine, and College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences).

This project aligns so well with the mission of UC Davis Health, as it is grounded in equity and provides unparalleled care across the region to transform lives and communities, said Thomas Smith, chief of cardiovascular medicine. I applaud the American Heart Association for this investment to study the impacts of chronic stress on cardiovascular health, providing us the opportunity to impact cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment in our most vulnerable populations.
Jacqueline Towarnicki got a text as she finished her day shift at a local clinic. She had a new case, a patient covered in bruises who couldn't remember how the injuries got there.

Towarnicki's breath caught, a familiar feeling after four years of working night shifts as a sexual assault nurse examiner in this northwestern Montana city.

"You almost want to curse," Towarnicki, 38, said. "Youre like, 'Oh, no, its happening.'"

These nights on duty are Towarnicki's second job. She's on call once a week and a weekend a month. A survivor may need protection against sexually transmitted infections, medicine to avoid getting pregnant, or evidence collected to prosecute their attacker. Or all the above.

When her phone rings, it's typically in the middle of the night. Towarnicki tiptoes down the stairs of her home to avoid waking her young son, as her half-asleep husband whispers encouragement into the dark.

Her breath is steady by the time she changes into the clothes she laid out close to her back door before going to bed. She grabs her nurse's badge and drives to First Step Resource Center, a clinic that offers round-the-clock care for people who have been assaulted.

She wants her patients to know they're out of danger.

"You meet people in some of their most horrifying, darkest, terrifying times," Towarnicki said. "Being with them and then seeing who they are when they leave, you dont get that doing any other job in health care."

A former travel nurse who lived out of a van for years, Towarnicki is OK with the uncertainty that comes with being a sexual assault nurse examiner.

Most examiners work on-call shifts in addition to full-time jobs. They often work alone and at odd hours. They can collect evidence that could be used in court, are trained to recognize and respond to trauma, and provide care to protect their patients' bodies from lasting effects of sexual assault.

But their numbers are few.

As many as 80% of U.S. hospitals dont have sexual assault nurse examiners, often because they either can't find them or can't afford them. Nurses struggle to find time for shifts, especially when staffing shortages mean covering long hours. Sexual assault survivors may have to leave their town or even their state to see an examiner.

Gaps in sexual assault care can span hundreds of miles in rural areas. A program in Glendive, Montana  a town of nearly 5,000 residents 35 miles from the North Dakota border  stopped taking patients for examinations this spring. It didn't have enough nurses to respond to cases.

"These are the same nurses working in the ER, where a heart attack patient could come in," said Teresea Olson, 56, who is the town's part-time mayor and also picked up on-call shifts. "The staff was exhausted."

The next closest option is 75 miles away in Miles City, adding at least an hour to the travel time for patients, some of whom already had to travel hours to reach Glendive.

Nationwide, policymakers have been slow to offer training, funding, and support for the work. Some states and health facilities are trying to expand access to sexual assault response programs.

Oklahoma lawmakers are considering a bill to hire a statewide sexual assault coordinator tasked with expanding training and recruiting workers. A Montana law that takes effect July 1 will create a sexual assault response network within the Montana Department of Justice. The new program aims to set standards for that care, provide in-state training, and connect examiners statewide. It will also look at telehealth to fill in gaps, following the example of hospitals in South Dakota and Colorado.

There's no national tally of where nurses have been trained to respond to sexual assaults, meaning a survivor may not know they have to travel for treatment until they're sitting in an emergency room or police department.

Sarah Wangerin, a nursing instructor with Montana State University and former examiner, said patients reeling from an attack may instead just go home. For some, leaving town isn't an option.

This spring, Wangerin called county hospitals and sheriff's offices to map where sexual assault nurse examiners operate in Montana. She found only 55. More than half of the 45 counties that responded didn't have any examiners. Just seven counties reported they had nurses trained to respond to cases that involve children.

"We're failing people," Wangerin said. "We're re-traumatizing them by not knowing what to do."

First Step, in Missoula, is one of the few full-time sexual assault response programs in the state. It's operated by Providence St. Patrick Hospital but is separate from the main building.

The clinic's walls are adorned with drawings by kids and mountain landscapes. The staff doesn't turn on the harsh overhead fluorescent lights, choosing instead to light the space with softer lamps. The lobby includes couches and a rocking chair. There are always heated blankets and snacks on hand.

First Step stands out for having nurses who stay. Kate Harrison waited roughly a year to join the clinic and is still there three years later, in part because of the staff support.

The specially trained team works together so no one carries too heavy a load. While being on night shift means opening the clinic alone, staffers can debrief tough cases together. They attend group therapy for secondhand trauma.

Harrison is a cardiac hospital nurse during the day, a job that sometimes feels a little too stuck to a clock.

At First Step, she can shift into whatever role her patient needs for as long as they need. Once, that meant sitting for hours on a floor in the lobby of the clinic as a patient cried and talked. Another time, Harrison doubled as a DJ for a nervous patient during an exam, picking music off her cellphone.

"Its in the middle of the night, she just had this sexual assault happen, and we were just laughing and singing to Shaggy," Harrison said. "You have this freedom and grace to do that."

When the solo work is overwhelming or she's had back-to-back cases and needs a break, she knows a co-worker would be willing to help.

"This work can take you to the undercurrents and the underbelly of society sometimes," Harrison said. "It takes a team."

That includes co-workers like Towarnicki, who dropped her work hours at her day job after having her son to keep working as a sexual assault nurse examiner. That meant adding three years to her student loan repayment schedule. Now, pregnant with her second child, the work still feels worth it, she said.

On a recent night, Towarnicki was alone in the clinic, clicking through photos she took of her last patient. The patient opted against filing a police report but asked Towarnicki to log all the evidence just in case.

Towarnicki quietly counted out loud the number of bruises, their sizes and locations, as she took notes. She tells patients who have gaps in their memories that she can't speculate how each mark got there or give them all the answers they deserve.

But as she sat in the blue light of her computer screen long after her patient left, it was hard to keep from ruminating.

"Totally looks like a hand mark," Towarnicki said, suddenly loud, as she shook her head.

All the evidence and her patient's story were sealed and locked away, just feet from a wall of thank-you cards from patients and sticky notes of encouragement among nurses.

On the harder evenings, Towarnicki takes a moment to unwind with a pudding cup from the clinic's snacks. Most often, she can let go of her patient's story as she closes the clinic. Part of her healing is "seeing the light returned to peoples eyes, seeing them be able to breathe deeper," which she said happens 19 out of 20 times.

"There is that one out of 20 where I go home and I am spinning," Towarnicki said. In those cases, it takes hearing her son's voice, and time to process, to pull her back. "I feel like if its not hard sometimes, maybe you shouldnt be doing this work."

It was a little after 11 p.m. as Towarnicki headed home, an early night. She knew her phone could go off again.

Eight more hours on call.
In a shocking turn of events, passengers of GoFirst airlines were left disgruntled and disappointed as the company refused to issue refunds for their cancelled flights. Instead, they were offered credit notes, sparking outrage among affected travelers.

GoFirst, formerly known as GoAir, had recently faced operational challenges, resulting in multiple flight cancellations across various routes. Passengers, who were already dealing with the inconvenience of disrupted travel plans, were dealt another blow when the airline declined to refund their ticket fares.

Instead, GoFirst informed customers that they would be provided with credit notes, leaving many feeling shortchanged and dissatisfied. The move raised concerns among passengers, who argued that credit notes were not a suitable alternative, especially considering the uncertain future of the airline.

Also Read: Amid Go First Crisis, Air India Receives Over 700 Applications for Pilots

The decision by GoFirst management has triggered a wave of criticism from customers who expected a full refund for their unused tickets. Many travelers expressed their frustrations on social media platforms, highlighting the financial burden they now face due to the companys unwillingness to reimburse them.

In response to the growing discontent, consumer rights groups have called for immediate action, urging GoFirst to reconsider its stance and provide the much-needed refunds to affected passengers. They emphasized the importance of safeguarding consumers rights and ensuring that airlines are held accountable for their actions.

Meanwhile, industry experts have also weighed in on the matter, highlighting the legal obligations of airlines to offer refunds for cancelled flights. They underscored that credit notes cannot be forced upon passengers as a substitute for refunds, as it undermines the rights of consumers.

As the backlash continues to intensify, GoFirst finds itself at the center of a storm, with customers demanding transparency and fair treatment. The airline now faces mounting pressure to address the grievances of its passengers and find a resolution that upholds their rights.

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GoFirsts decision to issue credit notes instead of refunds has left a trail of disgruntled customers, questioning the airlines commitment to customer satisfaction. With calls for action growing louder, it remains to be seen how the airline will respond to the mounting pressure and resolve the ongoing dispute with its passengers.

Read all the Latest Auto News here
Czech car maker Skoda Auto has said India will become an export hub for the company as it is set to commence exports of vehicle kits for assembly in Vietnam from next year.

The company, which posted a whopping 125 per cent year-on-year surge in its vehicle sales at 53,721 units in 2022, also sounded hopeful of growing into double-digit this year as well.

Similarly, Volkswagen Group sales grew 85.48 per cent year-on-year at 1,01,270 units in the previous calendar year.

The Group is present through Skoda Auto, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Lamborghini brands under Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt Ltd (SAVWPIL).

Also Read: Skoda Auto Announces Plans to Launch Six New Electric Vehicles by 2026

India is an absolutely important market as part of our regional strategy of Skoda Auto, and India will become an export hub for Skoda," Petr Solc, Brand Director at Skoda Auto India told PTI in an interaction.

Volkswagen is already exporting vehicles from India to Mexico and South Africa while Skoda Auto is exporting to the Middle East and North Africa. From next year we will start exporting vehicle kits for assembly in Vietnam, Solc stated.

Export is already an important part and will continue to be an important part of the strategy for Skoda and Volkswagen, he stated.

Noting that Skoda Auto India for the first time delivered more than 50,000 cars in the domestic market last year, he said we would like to grow with the market or even faster and our ambition is to grow into double digits. He said that 2022 was specific for the company on account of the Slavia launch and added that So, there was this kind of a one-time effect of any new model introduction. Now, we have both models (all-new Slavia sedan and Kushaq SUV) in the market and can now enjoy having both models for the full year in the market, he said.

Solc said that the 7-seater updated SUV Kodiaq will also play a role in terms of the companys growth strategy, particularly when there is much greater supply now.

To a question on Audi, which at a point of time was the undisputed leader in the domestic premium luxury car market, Christian Cahn Von Seelen, Member of the Board for sales, marketing and digital at SAVWPIL said that its growth has been impressive in terms of volume in 2022 compared to the year earlier and that was still hampered significantly by the chip supply situations even in Europe.

So the growth of Audi is impressive, and we are definitely planning to continueSo as much (as) I think, I can say we will see loads of new product introductions here on the other side. On the companys EV foray in the Indian market, Solc said it depends on the development of the segment in the country.

Late last month, the European car maker Skoda announced its EV roadmap, which includes six electric cars in a phased manner by 2026.

We as a manufacturer and Skoda, we will be ready. And if we see good traction, we are talking about the prognosis that the car market or the EV can go within 5-10 years, up to 20, maybe 30 per cent. We dont know necessarily, he said.

So this could be part, we would like to be also within that range, but depends again, on the response. If we see more manufacturers going, there is an infrastructure built here and theres an acceptance from the customers to buy electric cars, and we will be ready, he said.

He said that the company is discussing which models it should bring in the future also to India as an EV.

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And if we see the potential in the market, we will bring them as well. So I cannot say necessarily what the percentage will be. But if the market is going towards more than 20 per cent of the electric vehicles of the total market, we would like to penetrate within the EV segment, Solc added.

Read all the Latest Auto News here
The Indian financial system is well protected and there is no spillover effect of the failure of American banks on the Indian financial system, said Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth on Monday after the FSDC meeting. He added that legislative changes announced in the Budget should be expedited.

Seth said the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) on Monday discussed the need for a driver for the distribution of unclaimed deposits with financial institutions.

On Monday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman reviewed the state of the economy amid global and domestic challenges at a meeting of the 27th FSDC. The meeting was attended by financial sector regulators, including RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.

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(With PTI Inputs)

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I have invested Rs 4 lakh and will be getting an assured monthly income of Rs 90,000 now. I have already received it for the first month," said Mohd Shahbaz, who has been assured a guaranteed fixed income by an agent who is marketing a crypto token, B-Love, among people in Delhi. Like Shahbaz, a large number of people have put their hard-earned money in such unknown or little-known crypto tokens expecting guaranteed monthly returns.

As digitalisation has increased at a fast pace, apart from traditional bogus investment schemes like chit funds, one more instrument has now been added  crypto. While there are various crypto tokens in the market, News18.com has come across B-Love, which is creating a network in neighbourhoods like a pyramid scheme or multi-level marketing.

The B-Love token, according to the companys website https://blovenetwork.online/, is a cryptocurrency token by B-Love Network, which was founded by Dubai-based Pakistani crypto trader Omer Khan. Through its Twitter handle, the company keeps posting updates regarding the token. Get 300 active referrals in 30 days. Win a free trip to Thailand," reads a tweet by BFIC BLove Network regarding its tokens.

News18.com tried to contact BFIC BLove Network through its Twitter handle but the company did not respond. This article will be updated whenever a reply is received.

The B-Love token was floated by the company after its earlier version, BFIC, was rendered inactive due to payment issues faced by investors", according to a person who had invested in it.

Its Android app was launched just around four months ago, and it has so far registered more than 5 million downloads on the Google Play Store. The companys domain Blovenetwork.online was also registered around the same time. Its Apple app was launched on May 3.

The users are spread across various cities in India," said a person, who attends local meetings related to the token.

Though the company claims it will list the token on over 50 exchanges in the future, B-Love is so far not listed on any major exchange, including CoinDCX, Zebpay, WazirX, or Binance. It is just listed on the little-known xchangeon.io. This exchange, as observed by News18.com, is currently not adequately working and has key features disabled.

B-Love token: How is it gaining users so fast?

As the token is not listed on any major exchange, it is resorting to the direct selling method to circulate its crypto. Those who are invested in the token need to find buyers by bringing new people on board.

According to a crypto expert, who did not wish to be named, As this particular token is not listed on any major exchange, prices of such tokens are also manipulative."

A token user, on the condition of anonymity, said, If you sell B-Love token through an exchange, you have to pay 30 per cent tax (TDS) on profits. But, if you do it without exchange or in cash, there is no need to pay TDS. Most people do it in cash."

Said an independent tax practitioner, Such practice is tax evasion. According to the income tax rules, a 30 per cent TDS is levied on any gains on virtual digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, without any offset."

He also said one cannot assure a guaranteed return on any investment scheme as per Indian laws.

Crypto market: Are pyramid schemes or direct selling allowed?

Mehak Khanna, partner at law firm Khaitan & Khaitan, said, If the concerned app or the entity dealing with crypto does not sell identifiable goods or services through its direct sellers to the customers and operates a scheme where one makes quick and easy money by enrolling more and more subscribers, then it may be considered to be a pyramid or money circulation scheme. Though direct selling business is legitimised in India and regulated through inter-alia the Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules, 2021, money circulation schemes and pyramid schemes are not."

Khanna also said a pyramid or a money circulation scheme usually involves enrolling or recruiting maximum participants and masking the subscription or transfer of money with a (supposedly) legitimate-looking investment business to derive illegitimate benefits. In such a scenario, the government can initiate investigation and action against such set-ups under the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978."

Recently, the government through its notification dated March 7, 2023, brought digital and virtual currencies under the purview of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

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The entity and persons dealing with crypto thus need to be cognisant of the repercussions under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, as well. And, the onus may also come on the person who may have unknowingly participated in the crypto market (which could be through entrusting it to a friend or fund manager, etc), and hence one needs to be cautious of the implications of such apps," Khanna added.

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Go First, which went under citing Pratt & Whitney engine failures, is optimistic about resuming flights within seven days if National Company Law Tribunal restrains lessors from taking back its aircraft.

The airline, controlled by billionaire Nusli Wadias group, has enough funds to sustain operations on a cash-and-carry model for about 10 days, Bloomberg reported, quoting airlines chief executive officer Kaushik Khona as saying.

The airline is also seeking to request for an outstanding emergency credit; it is eligible under the governments program to offer life-support to pandemic-hit industries, Khona said.

We will hundred percent be able to save the airline if the court starts the insolvency resolution process immediately, Khona told Bloomberg. All our stakeholders, including oil suppliers, service providers are aligned to the fact that we have been continuously cooperating and transparent with them.

Meanwhile, as Go First awaits the NCLT ruling on its voluntary insolvency resolution plea, the tribunal is set to hear on Monday two petitions seeking insolvency proceedings against the crisis-hit airline.

With liabilities of Rs 11,463 crore and a financial crunch, the airline has sought voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings as well as an interim moratorium on financial obligations.

After hearing the plea on Thursday, NCLT reserved its order.

The tribunal is set to hear two insolvency petitions filed against the airline on Monday, according to lawyers.

The petition filed by SS Associates Services Pvt Ltd, which was providing transport services to the carrier, is with respect to a claim of around Rs 3 crore.

A pilot has also filed a petition claiming dues for his services provided to the airline. The amount involved is more than Rs 1 crore. The two petitions are scheduled to be heard by the Principal Bench of the NCLT.

Go First, in its petition filed before the tribunal on May 2, sought directions to restrain aircraft lessors from taking any recovery action as well as restrain aviation watchdog DGCA and suppliers of essential goods and services from initiating adverse actions.

Another request is that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators should not cancel any departure and parking slots allotted to the company.

The airline also wants fuel suppliers to continue supply for aircraft operations and not terminate the present contractual arrangements.

Go First has cancelled all flights till May 9.

Moreover, problems with Pratt engines have affected the airline industry worldwide ahead of the peak summer travel season. Deutsche Lufthansa AG has a third of its A220 fleet temporarily grounded in Zurich because of issues with Pratt engines. Turkish Airlines has sought leased engines and support from Pratt to repair its grounded A320neo aircraft.

Go First has said the combustor of Pratt engines degraded much faster than it should, causing premature failures and shutdowns. That technical snag forced the airline to remove 140 engines between 2016 and February 2023, out of a total 510 defective GTF engines that had to be changed and swapped during that period.

Go First has 16 undelivered Airbus aircraft, Khona said, adding the airline is talking to the European planemaker about the engine issues and has asked it to hold the deliveries of three jets.

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(With agency inputs)

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Yueda Kia, the joint venture between South Korean auto manufacturer Kia and its Chinese partner Jiangsu Yueda Group, announced its China and overseas automobile sales totaled 9,835 units in Apr. 2023, representing a 72.5% year-on-year surge and a 2.4% month-on-month growth.

For the first four months of this year, Yueda Kia exported 14,167 vehicles in total, which leapt 55.8% from the previous year.

The automaker said the significant increase in sales not only demonstrates the effectiveness of Kia's brand transition, but also showcases Kia's unwavering determination to deepen its presence in the Chinese market.

Photo credit: Kia China

Yueda Kia announced the New Kia strategy last year to better meet Chinese consumers mobility demands, with its branding tactics, products, sales channels, services, and marketing quality all upgraded.

Under the New Kia strategy, Kia continues to strengthen its alignment with the global market in China and accelerate the introduction of popular global vehicle models. In November last year, not only did Kia introduce its global flagship SUV, the Sportage, to the Chinese market, but it also upgraded the model based on the global top-spec version, with three powertrain options offered, namely, 1.5T+8AT, 2.0T+8AT, and 2.0L+6AT (HEV). Following that, the all-new Kia K3 hit the Chinese market in February this year. At the just-concluded Auto Shanghai 2023, Yueda Kia put the Kia Seltos compact SUV onto the market.

Besides, to better satisfy the demand of Chinese consumers for electric vehicles, Kia released its China-dedicated mid-to-long-term new energy strategy blueprint in March this year, kicking off a new journey towards electrification.
Stocks To Watch: The Nifty futures contract traded on the Singapore Exchange indicates a positive start to domestic equities. The contract was trading at 18,148.50, up 24.5 points or 0.14% from the previous close.

Earnings today: Aarti Industries, Apar Industries, Apollo Pipes, Avadh Sugar and Energy, Balkrishna Industries, Birlasoft, Canara Bank, Craftsman Automation, Exide Industires, Pidilite, UPL, and VIP Industries are among the top companies due to report their Q4FY23 earnings on Monday, May 8.

Aditya Birla Fashion, TCNS: Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail (ABFRL) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire controlling stake (51 per cent) in TCNS Clothing for Rs 1,650 crore.

Dr Reddys Labs: Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd, on Friday, announced the launch of Regadenoson injection, used as an agent in the imaging of heart muscle to check blood flow, in the US market.

PNC Infratech: The company has won an EPC project worth Rs 771.46 crore from Haryana Orbital Rail Corporation Limited.

Amara Raja Batteries: The company has bwegun work on Amara Raja Giga Corridor that aims to produce Lithium Cell and Battery Packs with an ultimate capacity of up to 16GWh, and up to 5GWh, respectively

Paytm: The company, on Friday, posted a consolidated revenue of Rs 2,334 crore for the March quarter of FY23, up 51 per cent rise from Rs 1,540 crore posted in the March quarter of FY22. The companys loss narrowed to Rs 168 crore from Rs 763 crore in the year-ago period.

Coal India: Coal India Ltd, the worlds largest coal miner, on Sunday reported 17.7 per cent drop in its March quarter net profit to Rs 5,527.62 crore, on higher provision made for wage revision of employees. Coal production rose 7 per cent to 224.16 million tonne in the quarter ended March 31.

Bank of India: Public sector lender Bank of Indias (BoI) net profit more than doubled year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 1,350 crore for the quarter ended March 2023 (Q4FY23) on improvement in net interest income (NII). The board of directors declared a dividend of Rs 2.0 per share (Rs 10 each) for FY23, subject to shareholders approval, the bank informed BSE.

Adani Power: The Adani Group company has posted around 13 per cent jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 5,242 crore for March quarter 2022-23. Total income however fell to Rs 10,795 crore from Rs 13,307 crore in the year-ago quarter. Total expenses were higher at Rs 9,897 crore as against Rs 7,174 crore a year ago.

Britannia: Britannia Industries net earnings in the January-March quarter of FY23 jumped 47.1 per cent to Rs 558.7 crore as its profit before interest, depreciation and tax (PBIDT) went up 42.7 per cent. This came on the back of softening input costs helping operating margin. The Nusli Wadia group firms revenue from operations in the quarter increased 13.3 per cent to Rs 4,023.2 crore amid significant distribution gains.

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Disclaimer: Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

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A pungent odour sent six students of a Texas school to the hospital. The culprit? A high school student who deployed a fart spray. The noxious odour was initially believed to be a gas leak, prompting fire officials and hazardous response teams to spend three days investigating. However, later a student of Caney Creek High School confessed to the foul prank.

According to a report in New York Post, the pungent odour was detected last Wednesday, causing the evacuation of all students. The school building was thoroughly checked by the fire and rescue department with gas detection equipment, but no signs of leaks or fire were found. Students returned to class the following day despite the lingering smell.

On the same day, the situation worsened as six students were hospitalised after suffering severe headaches from the odour. And at least eight others reported feeling ill, according to officials. Following this, the classes were shut down for the rest of the week. It wasnt until the student responsible for the prank came forward and confessed to using the Hensgaukt Fart Spray, that creates a smell like real poo and fake vomit. The mystery was solved, putting an end to days of confusion and fear at the high school.

We just received notice from Caney Creek High School. Due to the hard work of Caney Creek High School Staff and Conroe ISD Police, a student confessed to bringing a highly concentrated, prank, stink spray called Hensgaukt Fart Spray. Caney Creek Fire & Rescue is proud to serve and protect all Students and Staff at Caney Creek High School, the fire & rescue departments Facebook post read.

Internet was quick to take notice of the situation. They filled the comments section with concerns. All of the commotion and undue interruption caused by a child? I hope he/she learns a lesson from this. Great job taking care of the situation!!! Thank you! wrote a social media user. Another one believed that the school should be held accountable for incidents like the recent fart spray" prank. The user suggests that the school should apologize and cover the hospital fees of the affected students.

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According to the news portal, school administrators suspect that the teenager was not acting alone. The incident has raised concerns over school safety and the use of such pranks that could have severe consequences. It is yet unknown what disciplinary action was taken against the student and whether the school will take any further measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
The fur of Costa Rican sloths appears to harbor antibiotic-producing bacteria that scientists hope may hold a solution to the growing problem of superbugs" resistant to humanitys dwindling arsenal of drugs. Sloth fur, research has found, hosts bustling communities of insects, algae, fungi and bacteria, among other microbes, some of which could pose disease risk. Yet, experts say, the famously slow-moving mammals appear to be surprisingly infection-proof.

If you look at the sloths fur, you see movement: you see moths, you see different types of insects a very extensive habitat," Max Chavarria, a researcher at the University of Costa Rica, told AFP.

Obviously when there is co-existence of many types of organisms, there must also be systems that control them," he said.

Chavarria and a team took fur samples from Costa Rican two- and three-toed sloths to examine what that control system could be.

They found the possible existence of antibiotic-producing bacteria that makes it possible to control the proliferation of potentially pathogenic bacteria or inhibit other competitors" such as fungi, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Microbiology.

No infection

The sloth is a national symbol in laid back Costa Rica, and a major tourist attraction for the Central American country.

Both the two-toed (Choloepus Hoffmanni) and three-toed (Bradypus variegatus) sloth species have seen their populations decline, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Natures Red List of Threatened Species.

They live in the canopies of trees in the jungle on the Caribbean coast, where the climate is hot and humid.

American Judy Avey runs a sanctuary in the balmy jungle to care for sloths injured after coming into contact with humans or other animals.

She treats and rehabilitates the creatures with a view to releasing them back into the wild.

Weve never received a sloth that has been sick, that has a disease or has an illness," she told AFP.

Weve received sloths that had been burned by power lines and their entire arm is just destroyed and theres no infection.

I think maybe in the 30 years (weve been open), weve seen five animals that have come in with an infected injury. So that tells us theres something going on in their bodily ecosystem."

Avey, who established the sanctuary with her late Costa Rican husband, Luis Arroyo, had never even heard of a sloth back home in Alaska.

Since receiving her first sloth, whom she named Buttercup," in 1992, she has cared for around 1,000 animals.

Penicillin inspiration

Researcher Chavarria took fur samples taken from sloths at the sanctuary to examine in his laboratory.

He began his research in 2020, and has already pinpointed 20 candidate" microorganisms waiting to be named.

But he said there is a long road ahead in determining whether the sloth compounds could be useful to humans.

Before thinking about an application in human health, its important to first understand what type of molecules are involved," said Chavarria.

An example of this is penicillin, discovered in 1928 by British scientist Alexander Fleming, who discovered that a fungal contamination of a laboratory culture appeared to kill a disease-causing bacteria.

His discovery of the worlds first bacteria-killer, or antibiotic, earned him the 1945 Nobel Prize in medicine.

However, microbial resistance to antibiotics has been a growing problem, meaning some medicines no longer work to fight the infections they were designed to treat.

Antimicrobial resistance is a natural phenomenon, but the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans, animals and plants has made the problem worse.

The World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, resistance to antibiotics could cause 10 million deaths a year.

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Projects like ours can contribute to finding new molecules that can, in the medium or long term, be used in this battle against antibiotic resistance," said Chavarria.

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Several scaleless fish with fanged jaws and huge eyes that can be found more than a mile deep in the ocean have washed up along a roughly 200-mile (322-kilometer) stretch of Oregon coastline, and its unclear why, scientists and experts said.

Within the last few weeks, several lancetfish have appeared on beaches from Nehalem, in northern Oregon, to Bandon, which is about 100 miles (161 kilometers) from the California border, Oregon State Parks said on Facebook. The agency asked beachgoers who see the fish to take photos and post them online, tagging the agency and the NOAA Fisheries West Coast region.

Lancetfish live mainly in tropical and subtropical waters but travel as far north as areas like Alaskas Bering Sea to feed. Their slinky bodies include a sail-like fin, and their flesh is gelatinous  not generally something humans wish to eat, according to NOAA Fisheries.

Ben Frable, a fish scientist who manages the Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego, said its not uncommon for lancetfish to wash up on beaches, particularly in California and Oregon and in other parts of the north Pacific.

Its unclear what might be behind the deep-sea fish washing ashore, Frable said, calling it an area of open research. He added that its not clear if these incidents are happening more frequently or are just noticed more often in the social media age.

Reports of finding the freaky looking lancetfish on beaches date back to the 19th century, he said. The collection he manages includes lancetfish from beaches, including one that wound up on the beach near the institution in late 2021.

In that case, the lancetfish shot out of the water, where it was mobbed by seagulls, Frable said. Its possible the fish had been chasing prey, such as small fish, and got too close to shore  or that it was pursued by a predator, such as a sea lion, he said.

Some have also hypothesized that such incidents could be related to weather or climate patterns in the Pacific Ocean, he said.

According to NOAA Fisheries, lancetfish can be more than 7 feet (2 meter) long and swim to depths of more than a mile beneath the surface of the sea.

Last week, Miranda Crowell happened across a lancetfish on a beach in Lincoln City, Oregon. At first, she thought it might be a barracuda but that didnt seem right, so she posted a photo of it on Twitter and asked what it could be. She quickly got a response.

The fish, which she saw April 28, was more than 4 feet (1 meter) long and seemed to have just washed ashore.

I have never seen anything like that on that beach, she said.

Frable encouraged people to report any sightings, saying it could provide useful information for researchers.

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He also said that incidents like these provide an opportunity to kind of highlight the true diversity of life on the planet and how there are things that you just dont think about  but theyre out there.

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The next time NASA goes to the Moon, it intends to stay. Under the Artemis program, the US space agency plans to maintain a human presence, for the very first time, on a celestial body other than Earth. But building a lunar base is no small feat. It will need power generators, vehicles and habitats, and the space industry is racing to meet the technological challenges. Its the Super Bowl of engineering," Neal Davis, lead systems engineer for the Lunar Terrain Vehicle at space company Dynetics, told AFP.

Dynetics revealed its prototype design for a Moon rover last month at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs.

But it probably wont be until later Artemis missions  7 onwards  where were starting to look at adding permanent habitations on the surface," said NASA associate administrator Jim Free.

Artemis 3, the first planned landing, wont happen until later this decade, so habitat building wouldnt start before the 2030s.

The base would likely comprise multiple sites, he added, to diversify the targets of scientific exploration and to offer more flexibility for the landings.

Power and communications

Despite this distant timeline, companies are already chomping at the bit.

Step zero is communications," Joe Landon, CEO of Crescent Space, a new subsidiary of Lockheed Martin dedicated to lunar services, told AFP.

Think about when you move into a new apartment, youve got to hook up your phone and your internet first."

Starting out with a pair of satellites, the company wants to become the Moons internet and GPS provider.

This would relieve the strain on NASAs Deep Space Network, which threatens to overheat in the face of all the upcoming missions, including private ones.

Landon estimates the value of the lunar market will be $100 billion over the next 10 years."

Next up: switching on the lights.

Astrobotic, with 220 employees, is one of three companies selected by NASA to develop solar panels.

They need to be placed vertically because at the Moons south pole  the intended destination because it has water in the form of ice  the Sun barely peeps above the horizon.

About 60 feet (18 meters) high, the Astrobotic panels will be connected by cables running several miles (kilometers), said Mike Provenzano, the companys director of lunar surface systems.

The solar arrays will be fixed to vehicles that can run them out to different locations.

Vehicles

For its scientific expeditions, NASA has tasked industry with developing an unpressurized  that is to say, open top  rover for two people, ready by 2028.

Unlike the Apollo missions rovers, it will also have to operate autonomously for outings without an astronaut.

This means surviving frigid lunar nights, which can last two weeks, with temperatures dropping to around -280 degrees Fahrenheit (-170 Celsius).

Many companies have made a start.

Lockheed Martin has partnered with General Motors, leaning on the auto giants expertise in electric and off-road vehicles.

Dynetics, a subsidiary of engineering behemoth Leidos, has joined forces with Nascar.

Its prototype, which will achieve a top speed of nine miles per hour (15 kilometers per hour), includes a robotic arm and metal wheels that are braided like textiles to maximize traction on the sandy surface and deal with any rocks they encounter.

But at the same time, they actually have a lot of openings to the outside so that they dont collect that sand and carry it with us," Davis said.

Moon dust, or regolith, poses a major challenge because, lacking erosion by water or wind, it is almost as abrasive as glass.

NASA has yet to announce the selected company or companies.

In the longer term, NASA is working with the Japanese space agency JAXA on a pressurized vehicle, in which astronauts wont need to keep their suits on.

- Habitats -

Finally, the crew will need a place to hang up their helmets and call home.

NASA has awarded a $57.2 million contract to the Texas-based company Icon, which specializes in 3D printing, to develop the technology needed to build roads, landing strips on the Moon, and ultimately, dwellings.

The idea is to use lunar soil as a material. Other companies, such as Lockheed Martin, are developing inflatable habitat concepts.

The beautiful thing is you can land it on the moon and inflate it and now theres a much larger volume for the crew to live in and work in," Kirk Shireman, vice president for the Lockheed Martin Lunar Exploration Campaign, told AFP.

Inside would be bedrooms, a kitchen, a space for scientific instruments, etc.  all mounted on a frame, so the habitat can be mobile.

The basic concept behind returning to the Moon under Artemis is to help NASA prepare for much more distant missions to Mars.

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Whatever money we have to spend to go develop these systems on the moon, we want those same systems to be applicable to go to Mars," said Shireman.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
The Karnataka Class 10 results have been declared. Along with the Karnataka SSLC results, Karnataka School Examinations and Assessments Board (KSEAB) has also announced the 2023 topper list. This year, the KSEEB 10th Pass Percentage is 83.89 per cent.

As per the information released, this year four students have scored 625/625 marks which is a massive dip from last years stats. For the SSLC Result 2022, around 145 students had secured 100 per cent marks.

Karnataka SSLC Result 2023: Class 10 Merit List

- Bhoomika Pai from Bengaluru

- Yashas Gowda from Chikkabalapur

- Anupama Hireholi from Belagavi

- Bhimangouda Patil from Vijayapura

Read | Karnataka SSLC Class 10 Result 2023 Declared: Pass Percentage Drops to 83.89%, Girls Outperform Boys

This year, 835102 students had appeared for the SSLC exams, of which 7,00,619 passed. The pass percentage of boys is recorded at 80 per cent, whereas girls have outperformed by recording a pass percentage of 87 per cent.

Chitradurga comes up as best performing area with 96.8 per cent pass percentage followed by 96.7 per cent pass percentage in Mandya and 96.6 per cent pass percentage in Hassan.

In 2022, the SSLC total pass percentage was 85.63 per cent. It was the highest pass percentage in the past decade, excluding the 99.99 per cent recorded in 2021 when all the students were declared passed due to the Covid pandemic.

This year, 10 per cent of grace marks were given to students this, compared to 5 per cent grace marks last year. A total of 59,246 students have benefited from this.

A candidate must receive a minimum of 35 per cent in each subject and in overall to pass the Class 10 exam. The Karnataka Board Class 10 Compartment Exam 2023 will be an option for students who dont score the minimum necessary marks to receive the Karnataka Secondary School Certificate. The compartment exam in 2023 will most likely be held one month after the results are announced.

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The Karnataka Class 10 board exam took place from March 31 to April 15, 2023. The Karnataka SSLC answer keys were published on April 17, 2023. The evaluation process of Karnataka SSLC answer sheets commenced on April 21, 2023 onwards.

Read all the Latest Education News here
The Directorate of Government Examinations (TNDGE) has released the results for class 12th Tamil Nadu board examination. The board delayed the results from the scheduled timings. This year 94.03% cleared the examination. Students can check their results from the official website of the board tnresults.nic.in. Earlier, the results were decided to be out on May 5 but were postponed due to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET UG 2023) exam.

Students can check their result using their login information like hall ticket number, birthdate, and other pertinent information are part of the login credentials. This year as well girls outpaced boys in the class 12th Tamil Nadu Board Examination.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 11.18 am: Students do not have to just download the mark sheet directly, they will have to get it corrected in case of any error. The class 12 certificate also acts as proof of birth and further academic progress. Students can contact their school authorities or TNDGE in case of any error in result. Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 11.10 am: Virudhu Nagar district has topped. The overall pass percentage is 97.85 percent. Boys pass percentage is 96.85 percent and girls pass percentage is 98.73 percent. Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 11.10 am: Stream wise pass percentage

Science stream- 96.32 percent Commerce stream- 91.63 percent Arts stream- 81.89 percent Vocational- 82.11 percent

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.56 am: Girls outperformed boys in this years results, obtaining a passing percentage of 96.38 percent mean while 91.45 percent of boys passed HSE tests.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.55 am: The number of pupils who did not show up for the Tamil Nadu plus two (+2) language exam increased from 31000 to almost 50,000.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.53 am: According to statistics, 326 schools in Tamil Nadu as a whole have 100% pass rates for the TN +2 Result 2023. Compared to last year, this is a big improvement.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.52 am: While 96.32% of students cleared science stream exam, 91.63% cleared commerce stream exam and 81.89% passed arts stream exam.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.51 am: Number of Students Taking Exams Over The Years

2019  8,42,512 2020  7,79,931 2021  8,16,473 2022  8,06,277 2023  8,03,385

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.38 am: This year only one transgender appeared for the examination from Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.36 am:

7,55,451 Students Cleared the Tamil Nadu class 12th Examination Out of 8,03,385

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.35 am: 94.03% students Passed the examination

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.30 am: Girls yet again outperformed boys

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.30 am: 96.38% girls qualified the examination.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.30 am: 91.45% Boys cleared the examination

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.26 am: Websites to check for Tamil Nadu results 2023

 tnresults.nic.in.

 dge1.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org,

 dge2.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.23 am: Check result online

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.20 am: Server Error? Check Result via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone. Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.16 am: Results Out

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.15 am: As per a report by Indian Express, the press conference to announce TN HSE +2 results is delayed as the state education minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has not yet reached the TNDGE office.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.13 am: Results will be released on the official websites  dge1.tn.nic.in, apply1.tndge.org, dge2.tn.nic.in, apply1.tndge.org. The link will be activated anytime now.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.12 am: To access the TN HSC result, students will have to enter their roll number and an additional credential on the portal.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.11 am: Students are advised to keep their admit cards ready so that they can cross-check the credentials and enter them on the portal.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.10 am: The Tamil Nadu class 12 exam was conducted by TNDGE from March 13 to April 3. Approximately 8.8 lakh students appeared for the exam across 3169 centres in the state.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.09 am: Registered students can go to dge.tn.gov.in, tnresults.nic.in to check their result.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.07 am: Check result online

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 10.02 am:

How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.59 am:

Website Not Working? Check via Phone

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.58 am: Around 14,000 students from the Arts stream sat for the Tamil Nadu Class 12th results. More than 2.54 lakh students from the Commerce stream appeared for the examination. Out of the total, 5.36 lakh students were from the Science stream.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.57 am: Tamil Nadu Class 12th results will be declared anytime soon.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.55 am: TN HSE re-evaluation procedure information will also be released promptly right after the results are declared.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.54 am: Students can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.53 am: In light of the possibility that the HSC public examination results 2023 would have an impact on the students performance on the exam, state teachers associations requested the education minister to delay the results.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.52 am: Due to a clash with NEET UG 2023, the board postponed the release of Class 12 results from May 5 to May 8.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.50 am: The conference will be held at the Anna Centary Library Conference. Students can access their results online by entering their roll number or any additional credentials that were requested.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.47am: Around 14,000 students from the Arts stream sat for the Tamil Nadu Class 12th results. More than 2.54 lakh students from the Commerce stream appeared for the examination. Out of the total, 5.36 lakh students were from the Science stream.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.48am:

Websites to check for Tamil Nadu results 2023

 tnresults.nic.in.

 dge1.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org,

 dge2.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.44 am:

How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.40am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.39 am: Website Not Working? Check via Phone

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.38 am:

How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.35 am: Registered students can go to dge.tn.gov.in, tnresults.nic.in to check their result.

Step 1: Log in to one of these websites with registration number./roll number

Step 2: Click on download result link

Step 3: Down and get a printout of the score for future reference.

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.34 am: Check result online

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen

Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 Latest Updates: May 8, 2023, 09.32 am: Students can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 09.28 am: The Tamil Nadu class 12 exam was conducted by TNDGE from March 13 to April 3. Approximately 8.8 lakh students appeared for the exam across 3169 centres in the state.

May 8, 2023, 09.27 am: The conference will be held at the Anna Centary Library Conference at 9:30 am. Students can access their results online by entering their roll number or any additional credentials that were requested.

May 8, 2023, 09.26 am: These are the pass percentage of students in the previous years were:

2022  93.76 per cent

2021  100 per cent

2020  92.34 per cent

2019  91.30 per cent

2018  91.10 per cent

May 8, 2023, 09.25 am: Students can connect with school administration incase they are unable to find their admit cards.

May 8, 2023, 09.24 am: Results be will be announced shortly

May 8, 2023, 09.23 am: Registered students can go to dge.tn.gov.in, tnresults.nic.in to check their result.

May 8, 2023, 09.22 am: Registered students can go to dge.tn.gov.in, tnresults.nic.in to check their result.

Step 1: Log in to one of these websites with registration number./roll number

Step 2: Click on download result link

Step 3: Down and get a printout of the score for future reference.

May 8, 2023, 09.21 am: Check result online

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen

May 8, 2023, 09.20 am: After the result is declared today at 9:30 am, the toppers list will be released soon after.

May 8, 2023, 09.15 am: The conference will be held at the Anna Centary Library Conference at 9:30 am. Students can access their results online by entering their roll number or any additional credentials that were requested.

May 8, 2023, 09.10 am: Students can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 09.07 am: Websites to check for Tamil Nadu results 2023

 tnresults.nic.in.

 dge1.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org,

 dge2.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org

May 8, 2023, 09.06 am: Students are advised to keep their admit cards ready so that they can cross-check the credentials and enter them on the portal.

May 8, 2023, 09.05 am: To access the TN HSC result, students will have to enter their roll number and an additional credential on the portal.

May 8, 2023, 09.04 am: 2022  93.76 per cent 2021  100 per cent 2020  92.34 per cent 2019  91.30 per cent 2018  91.10 per cent

May 8, 2023, 09.03 am: The TN Higher Secondary Examination (HSE) plus two results will be declared today, May 8 at 9.30 AM. Once released, it will be out on tnresults.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 09.02 am: The Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) in Tamil Nadu has announced the class 12th board examination results date and time on the official website.

May 8, 2023, 09.01 am: TN HSE re-evaluation procedure information will also be released promptly right after the results are declared.

May 8, 2023, 09.00 am: Following the announcement of the board results, the applications for the re-evaluation procedure will be made available on the official website.

May 8, 2023, 08.59 am: Candidates who wish to have their answer sheets thoroughly reviewed for scoring errors may request a re-evaluation from the Tamil Nadu board.

May 8, 2023, 08.58 am: After the result is declared today at 9:30 am, the toppers list will be released soon after.

May 8, 2023, 08.57 am: Candidates who wish to challenge their marks can apply for revaluation, which involves recalculating or rechecking their marks. It is important to note that the revaluation process must be completed within the specified timeframe.

May 8, 2023, 08.56 am: For subjects that include both theoretical and practical components, students are expected to pass both parts of the exam separately.

May 8, 2023, 08.55 am: To pass the TN Class 12 exams, students need to obtain a minimum aggregate of 35 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.54 am: This exam is tentatively scheduled for June 2023. Students who have scored less than 35 per cent in any subject or total may appear for the supplementary exams.

May 8, 2023, 08.53 am: Students who fail to pass the regular TN 12th exam will have the opportunity to take the HSC supplementary exam 2023.

May 8, 2023, 08.52 am: How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

May 8, 2023, 08.51 am: Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi through a press conference today at 9:30 AM. will announce the results.

May 8, 2023, 08.50 am: Approximately 8.8 lakh students appeared for the TN HSE +2 exam across 3169 centres in the state.

May 8, 2023, 08.49 am: Website Not Working? Check via Phone

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone

May 8, 2023, 08.48 am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

May 8, 2023, 08.47 am: How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

May 8, 2023, 08.46 am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

May 8, 2023, 08.45 am: As per the schedule, the results for TN HSE +2 will be released by the Minister of School Education of Tamil Nadu, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi through a press conference today at 9:30 AM.

May 8, 2023, 08.44 am: Approximately 8.8 lakh students appeared for the TN HSE +2 exam across 3169 centres in the state.

May 8, 2023, 08.43 am: Website Not Working? Check via Phone

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone

May 8, 2023, 08.42 am: A student will receive an E grade and be deemed to have failed if their score is below 35 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.41 am: Students can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 08.40 am: D grades are given to students who score between the 35 and 40 per cent range.

May 8, 2023, 08.39 am: Those who pass with a score of 8190 per cent will be given an A2.

May 8, 2023, 08.38 am: Students who pass the HSC test with a score of 90 per cent or more will be given an A1 grade.

May 8, 2023, 08.37 am: How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

May 8, 2023, 08.36 am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

May 8, 2023, 08.35 am: Due to a clash with NEET UG 2023, the board postponed the release of Class 12 results from May 5 to May 8.

May 8, 2023, 08.34 am: The Tamil Nadu board administers supplementary exams to students who do not pass the exam on their first attempt.

May 8, 2023, 08.33 am: The class 12 supplementary examination is likely to take place in June and a detailed timetable will be released in due course.

May 8, 2023, 08.32 am: The evaluation of the answer sheets commenced on April 9 and wrapped up on May 5.

May 8, 2023, 08.31 am: Students can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 08.30 am: To pass, all students must receive 35 points in each subject. It is necessary to have 15 points in theory and a total of 35 points for subjects worth 70 points. In the internal or practical component, there is no set minimum score.

May 8, 2023, 08.29 am: The Tamil Nadu government has established a toll-free number, 11417, to allay concerns of children and their parents in order to encourage more students to attend school.

May 8, 2023, 08.28 am: School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has asked government to consider provide socio-economic benefits to potential dropouts and their parents as a measure to bring them back to schools

May 8, 2023, 08.25 am: However, if a candidate fails in more than two subjects, they must reappear for all the subjects in the next years exam.

May 8, 2023, 08.25 am: If a student fails to pass in one or two subjects, they may apply for supplementary exams that will be conducted later by the board.

May 8, 2023, 08.24 am: In 2022, Vellore was the lowest-performing district, with 86.69 per cent of students passing the HSC exam.

May 8, 2023, 08.24 am: The evaluation of the answer sheets commenced on April 9 and wrapped up on May 5.

May 8, 2023, 08.23 am: The conference will be held at the Anna Centary Library Conference. Students can access their results online by entering their roll number or any additional credentials that were requested.

May 8, 2023, 08.23 am: As per the schedule, the results for TN HSE +2 will be released by the Minister of School Education of Tamil Nadu, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi through a press conference today at 9:30 AM.

May 8, 2023, 08.22 am: The supplementary exam is tentatively scheduled for June 2023. Students who have scored less than 35 per cent in any subject or total may appear for the supplementary exams.

May 8, 2023, 08.22 am: The overall passing percentage required to pass the exam is 35 percent. The practical exams are also crucial, and students must score at least 15 marks out of 30 to pass the paper.

May 8, 2023, 08.21 am: The candidates who appeared for TN plus two exams this year can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 08.21 am: These are the pass percentage of students: 2022  93.76 per cent 2021  100 per cent 2020  92.34 per cent 2019  91.30 per cent 2018  91.10 per cent

May 8, 2023, 08.16 am: In 2022, Girls outshone boys with a pass rate of 96.32 per cent, while boys had a success rate of 90.96 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.15 am: In 2022, a total of 8,062,77 students appeared in the Class 12 board exams. The state board recorded an overall pass percentage of 93.76 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.15 am: The evaluation of the answer sheets commenced on April 9 and wrapped up on May 5.

May 8, 2023, 08.14 am: It should be mentioned that certain Tamil Nadu Board students who choose mathematics as one of their HSC subjects could receive extra marks.

May 8, 2023, 08.14 am: The Tamil Nadu Board has released a clarification stating that there was a mistake in the class 12 mathematics question paper. As a result of which students who attempted the particular question will be awarded 5 marks.

May 8, 2023, 08.12 am: The class 12 supplementary examination is likely to take place in June and a detailed timetable will be released in due course.

May 8, 2023, 08.12 am: The Tamil Nadu board ceased promoting or announcing the names of the best students in 2018 and hasnt done so since. Instead, the city or district with the highest pass percentage is announced. The DGE claims that the action is intended to lessen unhealthy" competition.

May 8, 2023, 08.11 am: Before logging in to official websites, candidates need their registration number or roll number and date of birth to access the score.

May 8, 2023, 08.11 am: The candidates who appeared for TN plus two exams this year can check their results by visiting the official websites  dge.tn.gov.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in and dge1.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 08.09 am: In 2022, Girls outshone boys with a pass rate of 96.32 per cent, while boys had a success rate of 90.96 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.08 am: In 2022, a total of 8,062,77 students appeared in the Class 12 board exams. The state board recorded an overall pass percentage of 93.76 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 08.08 am: The evaluation of the answer sheets commenced on April 9 and wrapped up on May 5.

May 8, 2023, 08.07 am: It should be mentioned that certain Tamil Nadu Board students who choose mathematics as one of their HSC subjects could receive extra marks.

May 8, 2023, 08.06 am: The Directorate of Government Examination has released a clarification stating that there was a mistake in the class 12 mathematics question paper as a result of which students who attempted the particular question will be awarded 5 marks.

May 8, 2023, 08.02 am: The class 12 supplementary examination is likely to take place in June and a detailed timetable will be released in due course.

May 8, 2023, 08.01 am: Depending on the number of courses in the supplementary exams, candidates can fill out and submit their supplementary exam applications.

May 8, 2023, 08.01 am: After the board results have been announced, applications for the TN HSE supplementary exam will be made available on the official website at tnresults.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 08.00 am: The Tamil Nadu board administers supplementary exams to students who do not pass the exam on their first attempt.

May 8, 2023, 07.59 am: Following the announcement of the board results, the applications for the re-evaluation procedure will be made available on the official website.

May 8, 2023, 07.58 am: Candidates who wish to have their answer sheets thoroughly reviewed for scoring errors may request a re-evaluation from the Tamil Nadu board.

May 8, 2023, 07.58 am: The results for approximately 8.8 lakh students who took the Class 12 or HSC board exams from March 13 to April 3 will be published today at 9:30 AM on the boards official website  dge.tn.gov.in.

May 8, 2023, 07.57 am: In light of the possibility that the HSC public examination results 2023 would have an impact on the students performance on the exam, state teachers associations requested the education minister to delay the results.

May 8, 2023, 07.57 am: Due to a clash with NEET UG 2023, the board postponed the release of Class 12 results from May 5 to May 8.

May 8, 2023, 07.57 am: Vellore was the lowest-performing district, with 86.69 per cent of students passing the HSC exam.

May 8, 2023, 07.56 am: Perambalur was the top-performing district last year, with 97.95 per cent of students passing the exam.

May 8, 2023, 07.56 am: Out of a total of 8,06, 277 students who registered for the general examinations, 7,55.998 students passed the exam, making the HSC results for 2022 one of the best in the past few years.

May 8, 2023, 07.56 am: The number of students clearing the class 12 exams in Tamil Nadu has been rising year over year based on numbers from previous years.

May 8, 2023, 07.53 am: Steps to Check Tamil Nadu Class 12th Results Online

Step 1: Go to the official website of DGE Tamil Nadu  dge.tn.gov.in or tnresults.nic.in.

Step 2: On the home page, click on the TN HSC/+2 result 2023 link

Step 3: Once redirected to a new page, submit the necessary credentials such as roll number and date of birth and submit.

Step 4: The TN HSC result 2023 will be displayed on the screen

Step 5: Download the TN class 12 result mark sheet and take a printout for further records

May 8, 2023, 07.53 am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

May 8, 2023, 07.51 am: The official press conference for TN Plus Two results will take place at 9:30 am. Result links will be activated after that on the official portal.

May 8, 2023, 07.51 am: How to Check Via DigiLocker

Step 1  Go to DigiLocker app at digilocker.gov.in

Step 2  Click on the Sign up button to create an account.

Step 3 -For existing users, log in to the account using credentials.

Step 4 -Then search and click on the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education option.

Step 5 -Key your Class 12 roll number, date of birth, and other details. Then click on the Get Document button.

Step 6  The TN HSC Result will appear on the screen.

Step 7  Download and keep a printout of the result for future need.

May 8, 2023, 07.51 am: Tamil Nadu Plus 2 results will also be available on the following websites dge.tn.gov.in, dge.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, dge2.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 07.50 am: Students must have hall ticket number, birth date, and other details that are necessary to check Tamil Nadu class 12th results

May 8, 2023, 07.50 am: The overall passing percentage required to pass the exam is 35 percent. The practical exams are also crucial, and students must score at least 15 marks out of 30 to pass the paper.

May 8, 2023, 07.45 am: Around 14,000 students from the Arts stream sat for the Tamil Nadu Class 12th results.

May 8, 2023, 07.44 am: More than 2.54 lakh students from the Commerce stream appeared for the examination.

May 8, 2023, 07.43 am: Out of the total, 5.36 lakh students were from the Science stream.

May 8, 2023, 07.43 am: This year, a total of the 8.51 lakh students registered for the HSC exam.

May 8, 2023, 07.43 am: The official press conference for TN Plus Two results will take place at 9:30 am. Result links will be activated after that on the official portal.

May 8, 2023, 07.42 am: The Tamil Nadu Plus 2 or class 12th examination was held from May 5 to May 28 in 2022.

May 8, 2023, 07.42 am: Tamil Nadu Plus 2 results will also be available on the following websites dge.tn.gov.in, dge.tn.nic.in, tnresults.nic.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, dge2.tn.nic.in.

May 8, 2023, 07.43 am: 2022  93.76 per cent 2021  100 per cent 2020  92.34 per cent 2019  91.30 per cent 2018  91.10 per cent

May 8, 2023, 07.42 am: How to Check Via SMS

Step 1. Open the inbox on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Type TN12 Result and send it to 09282232585.

Step 3. Within a few seconds, the TN Board 12th Result will appear on your phone.

May 8, 2023, 07.41 am: The pass percentage of girls was 96.32 percent while 90.96 percent of boys who appeared for the papers passed.

May 8, 2023, 07.41 am: The overall pass rate for the class 12 exams was 93.76 percent.

May 8, 2023, 07.40 am: In 2022, around 9.12 lakh candidates registered for the examination. Out of the total, 8,062,77 students passed.

May 8, 2023, 07.40 am: The Tamil Nadu Board will also send the exam results to those who took the exam via their registered mobile numbers.

May 8, 2023, 07.39 am: The registration number is mentioned in the admit cards of the students.

May 8, 2023, 07.38 am: Students can obtain the Tamil Nadu Class 12 results as soon as they are made available by using their login credentials, which include their hall ticket number, birth date, and other details that are necessary.

May 8, 2023, 07.38 am: Steps to Check Tamil Nadu HSC results

Step 1: Go to the official website of DGE Tamil Nadu  dge.tn.gov.in or tnresults.nic.in.

Step 2: On the home page, click on the TN HSC/+2 result 2023 link

Step 3: Once redirected to a new page, submit the necessary credentials such as roll number and date of birth and submit.

Step 4: The TN HSC result 2023 will be displayed on the screen

Step 5: Download the TN class 12 result mark sheet and take a printout for further records

May 8, 2023, 07.38 am: In 2022, Vellore was the lowest-performing district, with 86.69 per cent of students passing the HSC exam.

May 8, 2023, 07.37 am: Perambalur was the top-performing district last year, with 97.95 per cent of students passing the examination.

May 8, 2023, 07.36 am: Out of a total of 8,06, 277 students who registered for the general examinations, 7,55.998 students passed the exam, making the HSC results for 2022 one of the best in the past few years.

May 8, 2023, 07.35 am: The number of students clearing the class 12 exams in Tamil Nadu has been rising year over year based on numbers from previous years.

May 8, 2023, 07.27 am: The results for approximately 8.8 lakh students who took the Class 12 or HSC board exams from March 13 to April 3 will be published today at 9:30 AM on the boards official website  dge.tn.gov.in.

May 8, 2023, 07.34 am: A student will receive an E grade and be deemed to have failed if their score is below 35 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 07.33 am: D grades will be awareded to students who score between the 35 and 40 per cent range.

May 8, 2023, 07.32 am: Students with score of 8190 per cent will be given an A2 grades in Tamil Nadu class 12th results.

May 8, 2023, 07.31 am: Students who pass the HSC test with a score of 90 per cent or more will be given an A1 grade.

May 8, 2023, 07.27 am: Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the minister of school education for Tamil Nadu, will announce the results at a press briefing today at the Anna Centenary Library.

May 8, 2023, 07.27 am: Websites to check:

 tnresults.nic.in.

 dge1.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org,

 dge2.tn.nic.in,

 apply1.tndge.org.

May 8, 2023, 07.26 am: The TNDGE will only grant the students the benefit of the doubt if they had attempted question number 47(b), which teachers claim was ambiguous.

May 8, 2023, 07.26 am: The Directorate of Government Examination has released a clarification stating that there was a mistake in the class 12 mathematics question paper as a result of which students who attempted the particular question will be awarded 5 marks.

May 8, 2023, 07.25 am: It should be mentioned that certain Tamil Nadu Board students who choose mathematics as one of their HSC subjects could receive extra marks.

May 8, 2023, 07.25 am: The evaluation of the answer sheets commenced on April 9 and wrapped up on May 5.

May 8, 2023, 07.24 am: In 2022, Girls outshone boys with a pass rate of 96.32 per cent, while boys had a success rate of 90.96 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 07.20 am: In 2022, a total of 8,062,77 students appeared in the Class 12 board exams. The state board recorded an overall pass percentage of 93.76 per cent.

May 8, 2023, 07.18 am: This exam is tentatively scheduled for June 2023. Students who have scored less than 35 per cent in any subject or total may appear for the supplementary exams

May 8, 2023, 07.17 am: Students who fail to pass the regular TN 12th exam will have the opportunity to take the HSC supplementary exam 2023.

May 8, 2023, 07.16 am: It is important to note that the revaluation process must be completed within the specified timeframe.

May 8, 2023, 07.15 am: Candidates who wish to challenge their marks can apply for revaluation, which involves recalculating or rechecking their marks.

May 8, 2023, 07.15 am: To pass the TN Class 12 exams, students need to obtain a minimum aggregate of 35 per cent. For subjects that include both theoretical and practical components, students are expected to pass both parts of the exam separately.

May 8, 2023, 07.15 am: Approximately 8.8 lakh students appeared for the exam across 3169 centres in the state.

May 8, 2023, 07.14 am: The Tamil Nadu class 12 exam was conducted by TNDGE from March 13 to April 3.

May 8, 2023, 07.14 am: How to check TN HSE class 12th results 2023

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number and birthdate.

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen.

May 8, 2023, 07.10 am: The TN Board will also send the results to the candidates registered mobile numbers.

May 8, 2023, 07.10 am: The National Informatics Centres (NIC) offers free access to the Tamil Nadu board class 12th results.

May 8, 2023, 07.09 am: Tamil Nadu Class 12 results may be accessed by the students using their credentials hall ticket number, date of birth, and other relevant details

May 8, 2023, 07.09 am: The board was previously expected to announce the Class 12 result on May 5 but the date was pushed due to a clash with the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET UG 2023) exam.

May 8, 2023, 07.03 am: News18.com will help students to understand all they need to know about the exam

May 8, 2023, 07.02 am: The Tamil Nadu Board will declare class 12th board results today at 9:30 Am

FAQ

Where to check Tamil Nadu Class 12th results?

Students can check Tamil Nadu results from the official website, tnresults.nic.in, dge1.tn.nic.in, dge2.tn.nic.in and dge.tn.gov.in.

How students can check thier results?

Step 1: Go to tnresults.nic.in

Step 2: Click on TN HSC (+2) Examination Results  March/April 2023.

Step 3: Fill in your registration number and birthdate.

Step 4: The TN Board 12th results will appear on the screen.

When did the examination started for Tamil Nadu Board class 12th?

The Tamil Nadu class 12 exam was conducted by TNDGE from March 13 to April 3.

What all details a student need to check their Tamil Nadu class 12th results?

A student must have their login credentials like hall ticket number, date of birth, and other relevant details

When will Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 be released?

Results will be declared at 9:30 am today, May 8.

When will the Tamil Nadu 12th Result 2023 toppers list be released?

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After the result is declared today, the toppers list will be released soon after.

Read all the Latest Education News here
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) 2023 was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Sunday, May 7 in pen and paper mode in 13 languages. The overall difficulty of NEET UG 2023 was easy to moderate, claimed students. The order of difficulty in different subjects marked botany as the easiest, followed by zoology. Physics was rated as easy to moderate on the difficulty level.

Chemistry was rated as the most difficult of all subjects. Inorganic and organic chemistry had more weight compared to physical chemistry. Botany was rated as easy to moderate on the difficulty level. Zoology also consisted mostly of easy and moderate questions," said Dr Sarvesh Chaubey, Deputy Regional Director, Aakash BYJUS Live.

Also read| NEET UG 2023: Exam Postponed In Violence-Hit Manipur, NTA to Announce New Dates Soon

Overall the paper was found to be slightly easier than NEET 2022. Compared to last year, Chemistry was found to be on the marginally tougher side. The questions in Chemistry were more tricky and lengthy than last year. The rest of the subjects were almost of similar difficulty compared to last year," he added.

In physics and chemistry, majorly questions were from the class 12th syllabus. While in botany and zoology, majorly questions were from the class 11th syllabus. Overall the questions from the class 12th syllabus dominated the class 11 syllabus.

In the biology section for two questions, the correct option was not available. In the physics section, the correct option of question number 30 was not available either and question number 14 showed a bit of ambiguity, said Dr Milind C, National Head, Knowledge Management and Academic Excellence, Deeksha. The paper pattern in biology is similar to last year except no diagram-based questions were asked, he added.

NEET 2023 expected cut off

The NEET cut-offs are of two types  qualifying cut-off and admission cut-off. The qualifying cut-off is the minimum mark that an examinee needs to secure in order to pass the entrance exam. While the admission cut-off is the last rank at which admission is granted.

The marks expected to secure a seat in government colleges (All India Quota) are likely to be similar to the previous year, that is, 580 to 610, said Dr Chaubey. This time the number of students who attended the exam was nearly 19 lakh, which is approximately 18 per cent higher than the previous year, hence expected marks might range from 590 to 620, he added.

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The students had to attempt 180 questions out of 200. Each question had four marks. The correct answer awards four marks and the wrong answer deducts one mark. These 200 questions were divided into four sections subject-wise (physics, chemistry, botany, and zoology). Each of these sections has subsections (A and B). In Section A, all 35 questions were compulsory, and in Section B, one had to attempt any 10 questions out of 15 in each subject.

Read all the Latest Education News here
And its a wrap. With campaigning ending in Karnataka, the Congress is aware that May 13 may produce a nail-biting finish. And this is why despite the attacks by the Bharatiya Janata Party and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Congress has tried to stay away from the sovereignty" controversy.

The only step taken by the party has been to file a privilege notice against the PM. But so far neither has the tweet been deleted which quoted Sonia Gandhi as having said the sovereignty of the state would be protected", nor has any clarification come on this.

Sources in the party feel that a response or engagement with the BJP on this topic would fuel the issue further and give a handle to the ruling outfit. Hence, even as there was outrage over the tweet, Rahul Gandhis press conference was cancelled and a video was released, of him speaking about the 5 guarantees which would be fulfilled at the first cabinet meeting should the Congress come to power. Not just this, he also made a hurried visit to a cafe in Bengaluru and rode a bus with a few women to make the point that they would be given free tickets if the Congress takes the reins.

Unlike in most state polls, the Congress began its campaign in Karnataka well before time and it was also well-planned. It focused on local issues, adopting some of the winning proposals of the Himachal Pradesh elections, like putting money into the bank accounts of women, Old Pension Scheme, etc. But the turning point came when the Congress included a ban on the Bajrang Dal in its manifesto. The contradictory responses from the Congress  first saying it wouldnt be possible to implement by the state government, then denying any such plan, to the promise of building Hanuman temples  gave the BJP its first big catch in the polls.

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The icing was the sovereignty tweet. Precedence has shown that the BJP has had an upper hand on issues of national security and nationalism. For the Congress, staying away from this is the only way out. Only May 13 will reveal whether it worked.

Read all the Latest Politics News and Karnataka Elections 2023 updates here
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday issued a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to provide clarification and take rectification measures in respect of a social media post, which has been put up on the official Twitter handle of the grand old party that was attributed to his predecessor and MP Sonia Gandhi. Also, the poll body has issued a notice to the BJP for a newspaper advertisement published on Monday.

On the sovereignty" row, the commission said it received a complaint on Monday from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders Bhupender Yadav, Dr Jitendra Singh, Tarun Chugh, Anil Baluni, and Om Pathak regarding a tweet which appeared on the official Twitter handle of the Congress on May 6.

CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas:"The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity." pic.twitter.com/W6HjKYWjLa  Congress (@INCIndia) May 6, 2023

In the complaint, the BJP said Karnataka is a very important member state in the union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous and pernicious consequences.

Furthermore, according to the complaint made by the BJP, the tweet is violative of the mandatory oath undertaken by the political parties under section 29A (5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 at the time of registration. The clause says that the association or body shall bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established, and to the principles of socialism, secularism and democracy, and would uphold the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.

ECI notice to Karnataka BJP chief for newspaper advertisement

Days after issuing a notice to the Congress for unsubstantiated information in a newspaper advertisement, the ECI on Monday sent one to Nalin Kumar Kateel, the BJP Karnataka president for a similar issue.

Kateel was served the notice for publishing an advertisement in The Hindu with unsubstantiated claims as alleged by the Congress.

BJP has been asked to show reasons and provide verifiable and traceable facts by 8 pm on May 9 for the claims cited in the advertisement and explain why action shouldnt be initiated against them for violating the MCC and relevant legal provisions under RP Act and IPC, the poll body said.

The commission received a complaint on Monday from Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has published an advertisement in The Hindu making various claims that the Congress Party has alleged to be unsubstantiated.

While the commission notes that the criticism of the policy and governance of the opposition parties is a right guaranteed and enshrined in the Constitution as well as an essential function of various political actors under our electoral process.

However, while exercising this right and performing this essential function, the various political parties are expected to uphold high standards of public discourse and adhere to the various provisions of MCC and relevant laws, the poll body added.

The notice served to BJP states: While general claims and accusations are part of election campaigns, specific allegations and claims about the opponents need to be supported by verifiable and traceable facts. Any claim made without basis and empirical evidence has the potential of misleading the voters thereby robbing them of their right of making right and informed choices amongst the candidate thus disturbing the level playing field.

In the last few days, the ECI had issued a number of advisories saying that the national parties enjoy special enablement under the RP Act, 1951, and thus are expected to be the most compliant to the MCC and legal framework.

On Sunday also, the ECI issued an advisory that unverified allegations or claims should not be made in advertisements.

The commission has directed the BJP to convey the verifiable and traceable facts regarding the claims made in the advertisement given by them along with an explanation, if any, by Tuesday and also put that in public domain.

Failing this, the poll panel has sought reasons for why action shouldnt be initiated for violating the MCC and relevant legal provisions under the RP Act and IPC.

Corruption rate card row

On Saturday, the ECI issued a notice to KPCC president DK Shivakumar for publishing an advertisement titled corruption rate card" in newspapers in Karnataka with unsubstantiated information with respect to alleged rates" cited for appointments and transfers, kinds of jobs and commissions by the BJP.

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The 48-hour silence period in Karnataka started at 6 pm on Monday for polls to be held on May 10, with the results to be out on May 13.

Read all the Latest News here
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- In Apr. 2023, Honda Motor sold 94,879 vehicles to consumers in China, representing a 0.4% slight year-on-year dip, according to the Japanese automaker's press release.

It is noteworthy that the decrease in the Apr. sales was remarkably narrowed down from the two-digit decline Honda Motor faced in its China monthly during the five consecutive months ended Mar. 2023.

As for the performance of two joint ventures, GAC Honda saw its monthly deliveries leap 40.9% from the previous year to 60,498 units in Apr. 2023, while Dongfeng Motor's Apr. deliveries still dropped 34.2% over a year earlier to 34,381 units.

For the first four months of 2023, Honda Motors cumulative sales in China amounted to 315,245 units, shrinking 29.8% compared to the same span of last year.

Of the vehicles sold in the Jan.-Apr. period, 73,956 units were electrified vehicles, which include hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV).

GAC Honda saw its year-to-date sales slide 21.7% over a year earlier to 178,424 units, while Dongfeng Honda also posted a 38.2% year-on-year decline in its Jan.-Apr. sales, which came in at 136,821 units.

At the Auto Shanghai 2023, Honda Motor exhibited the world premiere of two prototype models, the e:NP2 Prototype and the e:NS2 Prototype, and one concept model, the e:N SUV , for the second and third set of e:N Series EV models, respectively.

Through the introduction of these new EV models, Honda will continue to enhance e:N Series lineup and strive to make EVs represent 100% of its automobile sales in China by 2035.

Besides, Honda Motor said it is planning to introduce 10 Honda-brand EV models in China by 2027.
Making an emotional appeal to voters in his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday asked them to take pride in the fact that he as a bhoomi putra of Karnataka had been made AICC president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name.

Stating that he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, he said he would until his last breath he continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests.

Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to wipe out Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a BJP candidate. It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out Kharge, his wife and children.
The Tamil version of Bigg Boss, hosted by Kamal Haasan, has been instrumental in launching the careers of its contestants and title winners in Tamil cinema. Aarav, the winner of the first season, landed lead roles in several movies, while Harish Kalyans career received a significant boost after his stint on the show.

Now as per reports, Mohammed Azeem, the winner of Bigg Boss Tamil Season 6, has signed up to play the lead role in an upcoming village-based movie. The movie will be directed by Ponram, who has delivered consecutive hits with Sivakarthikeyan in the past, including Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam and Rajini Murugan.

Azeem is known for working predominantly in Tamil cinema. The actor has been a part of several well-known television serials including Kadaikutty Singam and Deivam Thandha Veedu, to mention a few. Some of his other notable shows include Pirivom Santhippom (season 2), Niram Maaratha Pookkal and Poove Unakkaga, among others.

Meanwhile, director Ponram is best known for films like Seema Raja, Rajini Murugan and Varuthapadatha Valibar Sangam. He lastly worked with Vijay Sethupathi for the movie DSP. The film was released last year on December 2 and garnered mixed reviews from the critics, which resulted in the film becoming a box-office bomb.

However, it remains uncertain whether Ponram will be able to regain his footing with his new project featuring Azeem. Fans are eagerly awaiting the official announcement, which is expected to reveal the complete cast and crew details.

Mohammed Azeem was declared the winner of season 6 of Bigg Boss Tamil after an eventful grand finale, hosted by Kamal Haasan. The actor was presented with a trophy and prize money of Rs 50 lakh. While a few former contestants of Bigg Boss Tamil have managed to move to the movie industry, others are skillfully balancing their work between movies, television and web series.

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While on his Bigg Boss journey, Azeem encountered a lot of criticism from both the audience and Kamal Haasan, but he also had his fair share of supporters. Despite being nominated for eviction a staggering 15 times, he managed to emerge as the winner of season 6.

Read all the Latest Bollywood News and Regional Cinema News here
Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on Sunday lashed out at the opposition parties and said those who are opposing The Kerala Story" film are supporters of the proscribed PFI and terror outfit ISIS.

Addressing a function in Gurugram, Thakur said that those who are opposing the film are supporting the agenda of terror group PFI as well the ISIS.

The senior BJP leader said that The Kerala Story" exposed the conspiracy wherein Hindu and Christian girls were forced into terrorism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mentioned the movie in his recent speech in Karnataka and said, The Kerala story is trying to expose the consequences of terrorism in a society, especially in a state like Kerala which is a beautiful land of hardworking, talented and intellectual people." Madhya Pradesh has announced that the film will be tax free in the state, while Uttar Pradesh minister Brajesh Pathak has said it will not oppose any proposal to grant similar status in the state.

Multiplexes across Tamil Nadu have cancelled screenings of the controversial film from Sunday, citing law and order issues and poor public response.

Lets understand what the controversy behind the film is:

What is Kerala Story Based On?

The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, and Siddhi Idnani. The movie is about forced religious conversion and alleges that about 32,000 women in Kerala were converted to Islam and many were sent to ISIS-ruled Syria at the pinnacle of the terror groups dominance. Following the release of the films trailer, a petition to the Supreme Court was filed seeking a stay of execution on the basis of worst kind of hate speech" and audio-visual propaganda."

The Supreme Court denied the plea on Tuesday, adding, There are varieties of hate speeches. This film has got certification and has been cleared by the board." Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan blasted the films producers, calling it propaganda" by the Sangh parivar."

Following backlash, the promo for the film on YouTube was changed from heartbreaking and gut-wrenching stories of 32,000 females in Kerala" to true stories of three young girls from Kerala."

Why are Some Parties Criticising the Film?

Shashi Tharoor, Congress politician, criticised the films creators of gross exaggeration" and distortion" of the states realities.

Political parties in Kerala, including the ruling CPI(M) and the Congress, are opposed to the false claim" promoted by the film. They want The Kerala Story to be banned because they believe it is hate propaganda aimed at Muslims and defaming the state.

It may be *your* Kerala story. It is not *our* Kerala story. pic.twitter.com/Y9PTWrNZuL Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) April 30, 2023

However, the filmmakers have been outspoken in their support for the film. In an exclusive interview, actor Adah Sharma, director Sudipto Sen, and producer Vipul Shah all agreed that the film targets terrorists rather than the entire Muslim community," as per a report by India Today.

There is also controversy over the figures projected in the film, as well as the story of one of the protagonists, Fathima Ba, whose story, opponents say is not complete and is based off snippets.

Vipul Shah had told India Today in an interview, we dont want to get into the debate on the numbers, we want to talk about the issue. We want to bring notice to the human tragedy happening in Kerala and in India."

What Do Proponents of the Film Say?

The BJP has come out in support of the film, claiming that IS recruitment from the southern state cannot be disputed.

IS has a significant presence in Kerala. You cannot deny IS recruitment from the state," Kerala BJP head K Surendran said, adding that if the figures given in the video were the sticking point, that could be resolved.

#WATCH | "There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, 'Kerala Story' exposes that poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion": BJP chief JP Nadda speaks about the film 'The Kerala Story' after watching the movie in pic.twitter.com/lkJcvuJfdD ANI (@ANI) May 7, 2023

Films are not always completely based on facts. Treat the movie as one. Watch it first. Why the urgency to stop its screening? Why be scared of it? Why so much agitation? Those who do not want to see it, need not," Surendran said.

The film was even invoked in Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech. Campaigning in Karnatakas Bellary, Modi had said, The movie The Kerala story is trying to expose the consequences of terrorism in a society, especially in a state like Kerala which is beautiful land of hardworking, talented and intellectual people. The Congress party is now trying to ban the film and support the terror elements. It only knows to ban things and completely ignore development. The party even has a problem with me chanting Jai Bajarang Bali."

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PTI contributed to this report

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Charles III was crowned monarch of the United Kingdom and 14 Commonwealth realms on Saturday at Britains first coronation for 70 years, during a ceremony steeped in a millennium of ritual and spectacle.

Charles, 74, became the oldest sovereign yet to be crowned at Londons Westminster Abbey, after a lifetime as heir to his late mother Queen Elizabeth II.

Welby also crowned Charless wife, Camilla, 75, capping a remarkable transformation from her position as a one-time royal mistress to queen consort", and now queen.

ALSO READ | British Royal Family: King Charles IIIs Family and The Order of Succession | In GFX

Lets understand who will become King after Charles, and how the monarchys line of succession is determined:

The groundwork for succession was established throughout the seventeenth century constitutional processes, which culminated in the Bill of Rights (1689) and the Act of Settlement (1701), according to the official Royal Family website.

When James II fled the nation in 1688, Parliament declared that he had abdicated the government and that the crown had become empty. The throne was thus offered as joint rulers to Jamess daughter Mary and her husband William of Orange, rather than his young son James.

It was therefore established not only that the Sovereign rules via Parliament, but also that the succession to the throne can be limited by Parliament and that a Sovereign might be deposed for misgovernment. The Act of Settlement confirmed that the title to the throne was determined by Parliament. The succession to the king is governed not just by descent, but also by Parliamentary legislation. The sequence of members of the Royal Family in the order in which they stand in line to the throne is known as the order of succession.

Only Protestant descendants of Princess Sophia, Electress of Hanover and granddaughter of James I, are eligible to succeed, according to the Act. This has been reinforced by subsequent Acts.

Parliament also established various conditions that the Sovereign must meet in the Bill of Rights and the Act of Settlement. A Roman Catholic is expressly barred from succeeding to the throne.

In addition, the Sovereign must be in communion with the Church of England and promise to uphold the established Church of England and the established Church of Scotland. In addition, the Sovereign must swear to safeguard the Protestant succession, the website explains.

The Succession to the Crown Act (2013) revised the Bill of Rights and the Act of Settlement to abolish the concept of male primogeniture, which allowed a younger son to displace an elder daughter in the line of succession. The Act applies to those born after October 28, 2011. The Act also repealed the regulations that barred persons who married Roman Catholics from the line of succession. In March 2015, the adjustments went into effect throughout all sixteen Realms.

Here is the line of succession, according to the Royal Family website:

The line of Succession

SOVEREIGN

The Prince of Wales Prince George of Wales Princess Charlotte of Wales Prince Louis of Wales The Duke of Sussex Prince Archie of Sussex Princess Lilibet of Sussex The Duke of York Princess Beatrice, Mrs. Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi Miss Sienna Mapelli Mozzi Princess Eugenie, Mrs. Jack Brooksbank Master August Brooksbank The Duke of Edinburgh Earl of Wessex The Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor The Princess Royal Mr. Peter Phillips Miss Savannah Phillips Miss Isla Phillips Mrs. Michael Tindall Miss Mia Tindall Miss Lena Tindall Master Lucas Tindall

Prince Harry, Andrew Relegated to Third Row

Princes Harry and Andrew attended the coronation of King Charles III but were relegated to the third row of the royal family seating  and did not join them later Saturday on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

Charless younger son Harry and his American wife Meghan quit royal duties in 2020 and have since unleashed a string of barbed attacks on the monarchy.

Andrew, the kings eldest brother, has been frozen out over his past association with the disgraced late US financier Jeffrey Epstein and a related sexual abuse allegation which was settled out of court.

But both Harry, 38, the Duke of Sussex, and 63-year-old Andrew, the Duke of York, were in the royal ranks for the coronation at Londons Westminster Abbey, albeit without a formal role.

Andrew was driven in a state car from Buckingham Palace to the Abbey and part of the crowd in a grandstand in front of the palace booed as he went past.

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AFP contributed to this report

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At least three people were killed after an Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan, during a routine training sortie on Monday.

The tragedy happened at 9:45 am today, following which the aircraft wreckage fell on a house in Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh District, unfortunately leading to the loss of three lives, the Indian Air Force said in a statement.

#WATCH | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. The aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh. The pilot is safe. More details awaited: IAF Sources pic.twitter.com/0WOwoU5ASi ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

The aircraft had got airborne for a routine operational training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh. Soon thereafter, the pilot experienced an onboard emergency, following which he attempted to recover the aircraft as per existing procedures. Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection, sustaining minor injuries in the process. The pilot was recovered from about 25 kilometres North East of Suratgarh base," the statement said.

The IAF said it regrets the loss of lives and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, adding that an inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident.

Earlier, Bikaner Inspector General of Police Om Prakash said two people have died and as many injured in the plane crash in Pilibanga area of Hanumangarh district.

The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, Prakash said.

He said over 2,000 people have gathered at the crash spot and police and administration are trying to maintain law and order.

The IAF said, A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning". The aircraft had got airborne for a routine operational training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh

Additional Superintendent of Police Jassaram Bose said the number of civilian casualties may increase.

As per a Times of India report, more than 400 MiG-21s have crashed since 1971-72, killing over 200 pilots and another 50 people on the ground.

In 2012, former Defence Minister AK Antony had said in Parliament that more than half of the 872 MiG aircraft purchased from Russia had crashed, in which, more than 200 persons, including 171 pilots, 39 civilians and eight other services people had lost their lives.

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Experts believe that with no new fighter jets included in the Indian Air Force (IAF) for a long time, the entire weight is on MiG-21, which is also one of the reasons behind the accident.

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The explosions near Punjabs Golden Temple within a span of 30 hours could be a result of a commercial dispute, a top intelligence source told CNN-News18.

One person was injured in a low-intensity explosion that took place on a heritage street near the Golden Temple on Monday morning, close to the spot where a blast was reported on May 6 (Saturday).

One person was injured and glass facades of some buildings were damaged in the blast on May 6.

It is possibly a commercial dispute. Low-intensity blasts have been reported at the same place. But we are not ruling out terror angle, said the source.

Data from the area has been picked up about the two blasts within 30 hours and agencies are getting the details, he added.

POLICESPEAK

No detonator has been found and it appears that the explosive was kept in a container, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said, adding that it is too early to say whether the blast was someones mischief" or theres a terror angle to it.

Police and forensic teams reached the spot soon after the explosion and security was stepped up in the area. The explosive was very crudely made and assembled. Though no shrapnel was used, there was a loud sound, he said.

The officer said the two explosions in the area are being scientifically investigated". Our forensic team is present on the spot," he said.

The absence of a triggering mechanism means it is a crude device. It appears that the explosive was kept in a container, Yadav said on Mondays blast. At this moment, we are not ruling out anything It could be someones mischief, but it is too early to say whether it is a mischief, or there is a terror angle to it.

MAINTAIN PEACE AND HARMONY

The DGP said the CCTV footage is being scanned and details are being sought from eyewitnesses. I want to assure the people that everything is normal and we will maintain peace and harmony. People should not believe rumours. Punjab Police is there to keep the state safe and secure," he said.

Amritsar Police Commissioner Naunihal Singh said a case has been registered in connection with the two blasts. We have stepped up security in the area," he said.

The spot where the explosion took place has been cordoned off.

Amritsar Police personnel conduct a flag march in Amritsar after a low-intensity blast on busy Heritage Street near Golden Temple. News18's @anshuls gets you the latest updates @ridhimb | #Amritsar #GoldenTemple pic.twitter.com/Z6plwKmlzB News18 (@CNNnews18) May 8, 2023

CROWDED AREA

The heritage street leading to the Golden Temple witnesses heavy footfall every day. Thousands of devotees walk through the street, dotted with shops and food joints, to reach the Golden Temple.

Jasbir Singh Patti, a daily visitor to the Golden Temple for the last 20 years, said the explosions have created panic among devotees and the police should thoroughly investigate these incidents.

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With PTI Inputs

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The Delhi Police has arrested a man from Agra for allegedly raping a 62-year-old American woman on the pretext of marriage, officials said on Monday.

The accused, identified as Gagandeep (32), owns a homestay in Agra, they said.

The victim, in her complaint, alleged that in 2017 she came to India and stayed at Gagandeeps homestay. Later, they became friends and eventually got into a relationship, police said.

Over the next few years, she kept visiting India to meet Gagandeep and on several occasions, he allegedly made physical relations with her on the pretext of marriage, they said.

The woman further alleged that once he also took her to Surjamal Vihar in Shahdara where he again made physical relations with her. Gagandeep also took her to Amritsar and other places and his family knew about their relationship. However, she later found out that the man was cheating on her, police said.

On May 4, an FIR was registered under sections 376 (rape) and 328 (causing hurt using poison, etc., with intent to commit an offence) of the Indian Penal Code at Vivek Vihar Police Station, a senior police officer said.

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A case was registered and based on the inquiry, accused Gagandeep was arrested from Agra on May 6," he said.

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The death toll in the tourist boat accident near the Thoovaltheeram beach in Keralas Tanur area has risen to 22, with eight people who were rescued after the boat capsized on Sunday evening undergoing treatment at various hospitals, district officials said.

The boat, which was carrying more than 30 people, capsized near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area around 7.30pm.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard teams have reached the spot and a search operation for the missing persons is underway, the officials said.

A senior district official told news agency PTI that all the 22 people whose bodies have been recovered have been identified. We have requested the help of all agencies. NDRF and Coast Guard teams have already reached the spot. We have also sought the Navys help, the official said.

The exact number of people in the capsized vessel is yet to be ascertained, the official added. The state government announced a day of mourning on Monday and canceled all official events as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives in the accident.

Boat tragedies in India are not new, given that the mode of transportation is often used in remote areas as well as for tourism. News18 takes a look at previous incidents where people lost their lives in boat accidents across the country:

September 5, 2022:

A boat carrying 55 people sank in the Ganga River in Danapur, near Patna. The incident took place when some labourers were returning from work.

September 8, 2021:

One woman died and several others were missing after their private motorised country boat going from Majuli Island to Nimatighat in Assams Jorhat district sank in the Brahmaputra after being hit by a bigger ferry coming from the opposite direction.

September 15, 2019:

At least 12 people drowned and dozens went missing after a sightseeing boat capsized on a swollen river in Andhra Pradesh. The Royal Vasishta was carrying 61 people  50 passengers and 11 crew members  when it capsized on the Godavari River.

January 14, 2017:

At least 23 people were killed and seven others injured when a boat carrying 40 people back from a state government-organised kite festival capsized in the Ganga in Patna.

August 14, 2016:

Five Indian fishermen died and 20 were reported missing after their boats, which had drifted away into Bangladeshi waters during a cyclonic storm, capsized in the rough seas, reported Hindustan Times.

May 14, 2016:

Minutes after it set sail from Kalna in Burdwan district towards Shantipur in Nadia, an overloaded boat capsized, leading to 19 deaths.

September 28, 2015:

More than 50 people were feared dead after a jam-packed machine boat with about 250 to 300 people capsized in Kolohi River in Assams Kamrup (rural) district.

November 7, 2014:

Nine children were among 10 feared drowned after a boat capsized in the Ganga in Uttar Pradeshs Rae Bareli district.

February 9, 2014:

At least 11 people, including women and children, were killed and several others went missing after a motor boat carrying about 120 passengers capsized in the reservoir of the Hirakud Dam in Odisha.

April 30, 2012:

A storm in the Brahmaputra River caused an overloaded ferry to break in half and sink in Assam. Over 200 people died in the tragedy.

June 2011:

Nearly 40 people drowned when a boat carrying about 50 people capsized in the river Ganga.

June 14, 2010:

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More than 75 people were feared dead when an overcrowded boat ferrying around 100 passengers capsized in eastern Uttar Pradeshs Ballia district.

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Data shared with security forces, investigation and intelligence agencies in February this year had hinted at a push in terror activities in Jammu, given an upward trend in infiltration into the region.

According to data compiled by the Centre, there has been a rise in the movement of terrorists in Jammu compared to last year, indicating that since February, it remains the preferred spot for terrorists, sources said.

Top sources said the Multi Agencies Centre (MAC)  the highest body to coordinate with the security grid of the country  revealed that fewer terrorists were noticed in the Valley region but Jammu has seen an upward tick in their movement.

As per data compiled by the Centre, the Valley region had close to one-and-a-half dozen terrorist movements and presence in February 2023 while the number in the Jammu region was almost three dozen. However, in January this year, the total number was much higher than February last year, the same data reveals. The movement or presence of terrorists also increased from the corresponding period of previous year (February 2022) in which 43 terrorists were estimated to be in Pakistan or PoK, a senior official said, quoting the report.

Data also said that the overall movement or presence of terrorists poised for attempting infiltration across LoC opposite various sectors in J&K declined. Assessment of inputs received at the platform during the month of February 2023 indicated the movement/presence of 53 terrorists in J&K, a senior official said.

As per the breakup of total terrorists in J&K this year in February, those in the Valley region were 17, while Jammus number was 36 as compared to 74 terrorists during January 2023. Hence, the movement/presence of terrorists increased when compared to February 2022 in which the presence of 43 terrorists was detected.

The compilation of input assessments also reveals that security forces are under threat in Jammu and the most challenging area is the belt close to the Pir Panjal range, a senior official deployed in J&K said.

Forces and agencies have so far found that terrorists are likely to carry out stand-off attack or IED blasts in the region. The LeT was also planning to carry out terror attacks via IEDs in the Jammu area, including damaging railway tracks for which they were intending to carry out a reconnaissance of different places.

The movement of terrorists has been observed in the hinterland areas of Anantnag, Thanamandi (Rajouri), Poonch and Reasi districts to carry out terror attacks on security forces.

The central Intelligence agencies had recently found that the arms and ammunition used to execute the Poonch attack  in which five RR jawans lost their lives  had come from Taliban-ruled Afghanistan.

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After the Poonch attack, the investigation of the local police also hinted that the bullets used were likely from Afghanistan that were left there by US forces before their exit.

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Cyclone Mocha Updates: All police stations in Kolkata have been asked to assess generator requirements in case the electric lines snap during the storm. The directive is part of a standard operating procedure (SOP) drawn up by the command centre set up at the city police headquarters in Lalbazar for Cyclone Mocha.

The SOP has put the Disaster Management Group (DMG) on high alert. According to a report in The Telegraph, the authorities in New Town are readying more than 100 pumps, sandbags (to increase the height of the canal banks) and teams equipped with tools to remove tree branches from roads in preparation for the cyclone.

The report further stated that the deputy commissioners of all nine divisions of Calcutta police have been asked to identify dilapidated buildings and arrange for additional personnel who will act as first responders.

The preparations come even as reports stated that Cyclone Mocha may not hit the Bengal coast. A report in Times of India quoted Met department sources as saying that there is little chance of rain in Kolkata till Thursday.

Officials said that as of now, the storm seems to be veering into the eastern range of the Bay, affecting Myanmar and bringing only moderate thundershowers to Bengal.

If Not Bengal, Then Which Areas Will Cyclone Mocha Affect?

The TOI report stated that till Sunday, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) were unable to trace the formation of a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal to determine the cyclones path. However, they said that it seems Mocha may veer towards southern Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

RMC deputy director general Sanjib Bandyopadhyay was quoted as saying that a cyclonic circulation is forming over southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining southern Andaman Sea.

Bengal may face less impact of Cyclone Mocha, but Andaman and Nicobar Islands may see extremely heavy rain on May 10 and 11.

A report in The Telegraph stated that the system is likely to intensify into a low-pressure area on Monday and a depression on Tuesday. Thereafter, it is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm while moving nearly northwards towards central Bay of Bengal and adjoining North Andaman Sea, an IMD bulletin said.

The report further stated that most forecasting models have suggested a landfall along the Bangladesh-Myanmar coast. The details of its (possible cyclone) path and intensification will be provided after the formation of the low-pressure area. The system is under constant watch and being monitored regularly," IMD Director-General G Mrutunjay Mohapatra said.

Where Will Cyclone Mocha Make Landfall?

According to a report by Down to Earth, Cyclone Mocha will neither hit eastern India coast nor Bangladesh, but instead is likely to make landfall in Myanmar as a severe cyclone between May 13 evening and May 14 noon.

The report quoted a frontline weather expert as saying that steering winds are likely to take Mocha towards Myanmar. But, he added, that there may be rapid intensification of the cyclone during intense warming in the region, causing widespread rain on the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha.

Advisories

 As a low-pressure area is expected to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal on Monday, fishermen and small ship, boat and trawlers have been advised not to venture into the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of Andaman Sea.

 The weather office also said that the sea condition is likely to be very rough from May 10 to May 12.

 Squally weather with wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph is likely to prevail over the southeast Bay of Bengal, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and adjoining Andaman Sea on Monday.

 The Odisha government has put 18 coastal and adjoining districts on alert. Collectors of the districts concerned were told to remain watchful of the IMDs forecasts.

 Kolkata has set up control room that will have representatives from different agencies like police, Kolkata Municipal Corporation, disaster management department, PWD, CESC and others.

 A Telegraph report quoted a senior police officer as saying, Once representatives from all the departments, including fire and emergency services, the National Disaster Response Force, Metro Railway, RVNL and others converge at the control room, separate worksheets will be drawn up depending upon the pathway of the cyclone.

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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

Teslas car owners in China drive for 170 million km powered by Teslas charging network in May Day holiday

During the May Day holiday (Apr. 29 to May 3), Teslas car owners in China accumulated a total driving distance of 170 million kilometers assisted by Teslas charging network, resulting in a carbon emission reduction of 10,860 tonnes, according to a report Tesla released on its charging lifestyle Weibo account.

Model 3; photo credit: Tesla

BYD Dolphin records sales volume of 30,462 units in Apr.

BYD Dolphin, the first model to ride on BYDs e-platform 3.0, recorded a sales volume of 30,462 units in Apr. 2023, versus the 30,077 units of sales for the previous month.

BYD Dolphin; photo credit: BYD

Changan Automobile to promote financing progress of Avatr

Changan Automobile will promote the financing and listing progress of Avatr, the electric car marque backed by Changan Auto, Huawei, and CATL, in an orderly manner, Zhu Huarong, chairman of Changan Automobile, said on May 8.

Avatr 11; photo credit: Avatr

Geely Automobile sees Apr. 2023 sales zoom up 58% YoY

Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Holding) today announced its monthly auto sales came in at 113,642 units in Apr. 2023, surging 58% from the previous year, while also rising 3% from the previous month.

iFLYTEK introduces 'Spark Desk' AI-driven cognitive large model

Chinese smart speech solution developer iFLYTEK unveiled its "Spark Desk" AI cognitive large model, rival to ChatGPT, on May 6.

Cadillac sees China sales surge YoY in Apr. 2023

In the fourth month of 2023, Cadillac achieved positive year-on-year surge in its China sales across its entire model lineup, according to the sales record Cadillac released on May 6.

Dongfeng Nissan Venucias first V-Online DD-i super hybrid SUV rolls off line

On May 8, Dongfeng Nissan saw its first Venucia V-Online DD-i super hybrid vehicle roll off the production line at its auto plant in Zhengzhou city, the capital of Henan province. The model is set to hit the market in the first half of this year.

Chinas intelligent driving solution provider Eco-ev closes Series A funding

Suzhou Youkong Zhixing Technology Co., Ltd. (called Eco-ev for short, Youkong Zhixing is Chinese Pinyin), a Chinese provider of full-stack intelligent driving solutions, announced on May 8 via its WeChat account it has completed the Series A financing with tens of millions of yuan raised.

Honda Motors China sales edges down 0.4% YoY in Apr. 2023

In Apr. 2023, Honda Motor sold 94,879 vehicles to consumers in China, representing a 0.4% slight year-on-year dip, according to the Japanese automaker's press release.

Yueda Kia scores YoY, MoM growth in Apr. 2023 sales

Yueda Kia, the joint venture between South Korean auto manufacturer Kia and its Chinese partner Jiangsu Yueda Group, announced its China and overseas automobile sales totaled 9,835 units in Apr. 2023, representing a 72.5% year-on-year surge and a 2.4% month-on-month growth.
Delhis Rouse Avenue Court on Monday extended former Deputy CM Manish Sisodias judicial custody in the ED case of excise policy matter till May 23.

The Former Deputy CM was arrested by the ED in this case on March 9 from Tihar Jail and he is currently in judicial custody. He tendered his resignation from all the posts soon after.

51-year-old Sisodia, who held important portfolios like Education and Excise at the time, was first arrested by the CBI, which is also probing this case.

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday named Sisodia in a fresh charge sheet linked to money laundering.

This is the fifth charge sheet or prosecution complaint filed in the case by the ED before a designated special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Delhi.

The agency has called Sisodia a key conspirator" in this case.

The probe agency also arrested 11 other accused. So far, 12 arrests have been made for the alleged liquor policy scam.

It is alleged that the Delhi governments excise policy for 2021-22 to grant licences to liquor traders allowed cartelisation and favoured certain dealers who had allegedly paid bribes for it, a charge strongly refuted by the AAP.

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The policy was subsequently scrapped and the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, following which the ED registered a case under the PMLA.

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The arrest of a senior Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) official in Pune by Maharashtra ATS in a suspected case of honey trap last week has brought to the fore once again the concerning issue of securing the countrys strategic secrets and ensuring our men dont fall into enemy traps.

The 59-year-old accused, Pradeep M Kurulkar, was holding a senior position in Indias premier defence research institute and allegedly had been communicating with a Pakistani intelligence agent through WhatsApp and video calls. The Maharashtra ATS said the scientist misused his position and despite knowing that the official secrets in his possession if obtained by the enemy country can pose a threat to the security of the country, provided the details to the adversary.

Such incidents pose considerable danger to Indias security and I am sure the arrested individual will get the toughest and maximum punishment under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, says defence expert Retired Major General PK Sehgal. It will take much time before we may fully know the nature and extent of the damage done as well as which documents were passed and the aspect to which they relate, Sehgal added.

Its no secret that DRDO  Indias top military research and development agency  plays a crucial role in fulfilling Indias strategic and military requirements. As a Ministry of Defence organisation, it leads the development of defence technologies across a broad range of clusters, including aeronautical systems, armaments and combat engineering, electronics and communication, missiles and land combat engineering, missile and strategic system, naval, material and even life sciences.

The sensitive profile of the organisation makes this spying case all the more serious. Needless to say, the alleged critical information falling into enemys hands could be catastrophic. No wonder, DRDO has been a prime target of enemy nations spy agencies.

Just over two months ago on February 24, another senior DRDO official was reportedly held by the Odisha police for sharing critical defence secret with a Pakistani spy. The allegation was that the official posted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, transmitted some sensitive information regarding Indias missile tests. Reports quoting police official said in lieu of secret information the accused got sexual as well as monetary gratification". His seized phone had sexually explicit photos, videos and WhatsApp chats.

Earlier in September 2021, ITR-Chandipur was in news again when five contractual employees were arrested for espionage, similar to a case in 2015 where another employee was arrested and later sentenced to life imprisonment for sharing information with Pakistans ISI.

ALARMING PATTERN

Time and again such incidents show that Indias top strategic research and defence institutions remain the prime target of foreign spy agencies. Foreign powers are much better aware of our countrys great potential to rise once again, says Ravi Kumar Gupta, former director of Directorate of Public Interface, DRDO, adding their worst nightmare has been a strong, self-reliant Bharat that could become their competitor in the global markets.

Not just DRDO, organisations such as Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) have been the most significant driving force in rebuilding the nation through self-reliance. DRDO has emerged as a globally recognised defence R&D organisation and has indigenously developed a wide range of cutting-edge defence technologies.

Efforts by anti-India forces, both from within and external ones, to steal information or damage these organisations are not unexpected or surprising, Gupta further explains.

He highlights that the DRDO is particularly vulnerable to spying threats because of the nature and importance of the institutions work, besides its relevance to national security and strength. The advanced defence technologies developed by the DRDO have immense commercial potential; however, the leakage of such vital information can have serious implications for national security, making it a prime target, Gupta points out.

Additionally, unlike the autonomous status enjoyed by the ISRO and the BARC under the PMO since their inception, the DRDO is dependent on the Ministry of Defence, which Gupta attributes as one of the another reasons for its susceptibility.

Kurulkars case, while concerning, is not an isolated incident, as India has experienced several instances of high-profile espionage, with some remaining undisclosed to the public while others have garnered significant media attention.

The case of former diplomat Madhuri Gupta is still fresh in public memory. In May 2018, a Delhi court sentenced her to three-year-jail term for spying and passing on sensitive official information to a Pakistani spy. Gupta, an IFS Group B officer, was posted as Second Secretary in the media section of Indian embassy in Islamabad and was accused of passing sensitive official information to a Pakistani spy. A noteworthy aspect of the case was that a male individual was employed as a lure to ensnare a female officer.

In May 2021 when the country was in the midst of deadly second Covid-19 wave, Gupta passed away as reported by The Hindu, due to diabetes-related complications.

Much before Gupta, the case of KV Unnikrishnan, the then deputy inspector general (DIG) in charge of the RAW mission in Chennai (Madras at the time) in 1987 had shocked Indias security set-up and its intelligence community.

Unnikrishnans case was that of a double-agent working for both the Indian government and the United States. The complexity of the case was heightened by its subject and timing, involving the Lankan war and Tamil insurgency. The Kerala-born 1962 batch IPS officer was reportedly honey trapped by a Singapore-based Pan Am stewardess serving on the CIA payroll.

Unnikrishnans deceit reportedly helped the Sri Lankans via the US gain access to critical information to which only top Indian officials were privy. Lankan negotiators remained well-informed about Indias dealing with the LTTE. Indian officials were never able to catch Colombo off guard over sensitive details of arms shipments or weapon seizures, sometimes embarrassing and weakening New Delhis positions.

According to reports from that period, Unnikrishnan was apprehended in a major counter-intelligence operation that led to months of surveillance on the entire Madras police forces, including him, by RAW and the Intelligence Bureau.

In March 2011, Commodore Sukhjinder Singh of the Indian Navy was dismissed from service after a Court of Inquiry found him guilty of sexual misconduct with a Russian woman during his posting there. The Navy also suspected that he had divulged sensitive information about how much was India ready to pay for the INS Vikramaditya. Between 2005 and 2007, Commodore Singh served as warship production superintendent in Russia, supervising the refitting of aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov.

Further, in December 2011, an Indian Army officer undergoing a course in Dhaka was allegedly honey trapped by the ISI.

There are many such cases to count with ISI succeeding many times in getting critical information.

Experts say Pakistans ISI has been notorious for effectively using the honey trap method of spying not just against other countries but also to settle political scores back home.

A May 2010, a Deccan Herald report said Pakistans ISI at the time was training a contingent of 900-odd women to honey trap Indian officials and politicians. The report said these women were being trained in skills to collect sensitive strategic information after seducing officials in key positions in the Indian establishment.

So, arent their ways to mend these critical information leakages and block enemy spies from entrapping our human resources?

You can never make it 100% leak proof because some people will always fall for it, experts argue. Throughout history, intelligence leaders of various kinds have trained their agents to utilise seduction as a means of obtaining confidential information. Sexpionage, as many call it, was effectively used in both the World Wars, and since, has evolved as a tried, tested and effective spy tool.

Such leakages are impossible to control because of some of the intrinsic human weaknesses, says Sehgal, explaining that some people have weakness for women, some have failing for money, while some have weakness for wine and there are even those who fall for all the three.

The whole process of getting one compromised is a lengthy one and enemy spy agencies have to do a whole lot of homework before choosing a prey.

They primarily target individuals, who have some kind of issue, such as those with poor economic conditions at home and are in need of money, or those with troubled personal and family lives, Sehgal says, pointing out at the modus operandi.

He further illustrates: The undercover agent will first initiate contact with the target through social media and chat, gradually building a rapport. Once trust is established, the photograph is exchanged and conversations start getting longer. When the agent is convinced that the individual has become too emotionally invested, she will begin to seek information.

For example, the spy may begin by seeking a picture of a missile from the subject; than specifics such as the weapons specialties, its specifications, purpose, manufacturing location, and quantity will be sought  all the subsequent details are passed on. After gathering all these critical information, the enemys undercover agent is supposed to meet the target, but this never happens, Sehgal explains.

The Pakistan Army and the ISI are notorious for using honey traps not just against its neighbour, but also on its own citizens to settle scores. A former military officer, Major Raja Adil, had recently alleged that retired Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and General Faiz Hameed used top actresses to honey trap politicians.

Do such incidents not reflect the weaknesses in counterintelligence and what efforts have India made to ensure that such incidents do not happen?

I wouldnt say that our men get easily trapped, but the reality is that a country (Pakistan) works tirelessly to compromise Indian resources, and sometimes they do succeed, admits Major General (Retd.) PK Sehgal.

Sehgal adds: We have been working to sensitise our men through newspapers, media, and regular internal communications including guidelines and advisories. Armed forces personnel and individuals working in critical organisations like DRDO are reminded on a regular basis that enemy nations are actively trying to obtain information from them and that they should remain vigilant.

While there is no official ban on the use of social media, these advisories are designed to alert individuals about the dangers of overusing these platforms.

Recently, the army issued guidelines cautioning officers and soldiers against using photos of themselves in uniform on social networking platforms as profile pictures and disclosing any information related to their work, according to a report in The Telegraph, Kolkata published in February this year.

The government too is on record accepting the honey trap reality. Inimical agencies have been making efforts to honey trap Indian officers in Armed Forces, Ministry of Defence had told Rajya Sabha in December 2019.

ARMED FORCES ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICY AGAINST HONEY-TRAPPING

Further, explaining governments response, then MoS Defence Shripad Naik had told the Upper House that, Service personnel and their families are regularly sensitised on the use of honey traps as modus operandi by foreign intelligence operatives. Advisories have been issued to all concerned for compliance and directives have been issued to take stern action against defaulters under the zero tolerance policy. Special attention is also paid to new entrants in training institutes. Simultaneously, regular intelligence liaison with other agencies is maintained to detect such attempts. In addition, security measures to safeguard classified documents/information are in place and updated regularly to counter emerging perspective threats.

Another expert, who refused to be named, suggested that regular psychometric tests should be made mandatory for those working in countrys critical organisations. He said, Due to technological advancement, various interventions are available today and we should effectively use them to counter this menace.

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While spying and espionage may be a necessary evil in the world of national security, it is also essential to stay vigilant against the threat of honey traps and other forms of infiltration. The damage caused by the betrayal of own citizens can be devastating and long-lasting.

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) closely monitored a Pakistani jetliner that crossed into Indian airspace last week because of bad weather. The Pakistan International Airlines Boeing 777 jetliner crossed over into Indian airspace after it failed to land at Lahore airport due to heavy rain in the region.

On May 4, Pakistani International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-248 took off from Muscat for Lahores Allama Iqbal International Airport but aborted its landing because of poor weather conditions.

Delhi Air Traffic Control was alerted of the situation after which, it processed a request for the Pakistani aircraft to fly a detour, NDTV reported quoting sources.

The incident of the PIA aircraft flying in Indian airspace due to bad weather was coordinated between Lahore and Delhi area control, with information being shared with the Air Force Movement Liaison Unit. The Indian Air Force was in the picture and was monitoring the situation," sources were quoted as saying by NDTV.

The IAF did not scramble any fighter jets during the incident, sources added.

Movement of Pakistani Jetliner

According to Flight Radar 24, an app which monitors the movement of aircraft worldwide, the PIA jetliner, after entering Indian airspace, flew North of the Bhikhiwind town in Punjab at 8.42 pm on May 4. It then flew over the city of Tarn Taran before turning Southwest and eventually re-entering Pakistan airspace. The aircraft landed at the Multan airport.

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Pakistani International Airlines have permission to operate designated flights over Indian airspace, which includes flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.

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The rescue and medical team of the Indian Army on Monday evacuated some tourists who were stranded along the Zoji La Pass following the occurrences of snow slides and minor avalanches in numerous areas. National Highway 1, which connects Jammu and Kashmir to Ladakh, continues to remain closed due to multiple minor avalanches in the past few days.

Along with the Indian Army, teams of the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) and Jammu and Kashmir Police also pressed into action.

Earlier in the day, two vehicles skidded off the road and rolled down after an avalanche hit them on Zoji La Pass. The incident took place near Panimatha Captain Mode at Zojil Pass. Rescue teams immediately reached the spot to help the stranded tourists.

In another incident, a vehicle got stuck in the snow and could not move. In the video shared by news agency ANI, Army personnel can be seen clearing snow to move the vehicle from the avalanche-hit area.

#WATCH | Indian Army's Avalance Rescue Team along with medical teams is involved in evacuating stranded tourists along the Zoji La axis following snow slides and minor avalanches in the areaNH 1 continues to remain closed due to multiple minor avalanches. pic.twitter.com/AFA0nGsgMn  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

Indian Armys specially trained avalanche rescue team along with medical teams is involved in evacuating stranded tourists. Teams, equipped with emergency medical kit and all stores required for early rescue, are carrying out the necessary relief work, according to a statement by Army.

Earlier in the day, weather department officials said unseasonal snowfall in parts of Kashmir brought back the winter-like conditions in the Valley while several incidents of tourists and nomadic people getting stuck due to inclement weather were also reported.

Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Qazigund areas of the Valley received snowfall early in the morning, making the roads slippery, the officials said.

The weatherman has forecast improvement in weather conditions over the next 24 hours but warned of the possibility of cloudburst or lightning on Tuesday evening.

While the tourists were in for a pleasant surprise over the snowfall, the inclement weather caused hardships for the locals.

A group of eight tourists including women and children were rescued by police near Jawahar Tunnel in Qazigund after their vehicle was stuck in snowfall in the early hours of the day, the officials said.

Rainfall over the past 24 hours in most parts of the Valley, and snowfall in some areas, has sent the mercury plummeting and people had to pull out their winter clothes again.

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(with inputs from PTI)

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Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen will begin a three-day visit to India on Tuesday to explore ways to expand bilateral ties and prepare the ground for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's trip to New Delhi this year.

Cohen will hold wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar covering the entire expanse of engagement between the two countries including in areas of strategic affairs and trade, diplomatic sources said.

The visiting Israeli foreign minister will attend an India-Israel Business Forum being organised by industry chamber CII on Tuesday. He is also scheduled to visit Mumbai.

It is the third high-level visit by senior Israeli officials in less than three months, coming in quick succession after Knesset (Israeli parliament) speaker Amir Ohana's trip at the end of March-early April and also Economy Minister Nir Barkat's visit to India last month.

Cohen will be accompanied by a business delegation.

The sources said his visit is also set to prepare the ground for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's trip to India later this year.

In January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited Netanyahu to visit India at an early date.

His visit to India in 2019 during his previous stint as the prime minister was called off due to scheduling issues. Both sides were working on a plan for his visit to India in 2021 but that did not materialise as he was ousted from power in June of that year.

Netanyahu came back as the prime minister in December after his Likud party formed a coalition with some other parties following the elections.

The ties between India and Israel have been on an upswing in the last few years in a range of sectors including defence, agriculture, and water management.

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In January, Prime Minister Modi had a telephonic conversation with Netanyahu during which both leaders agreed on the potential for further strengthening bilateral strategic cooperation.

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The maulvi of a mosque in Kerala walked away from charges of raping a minor boy recently. The special POCSO court observed that there may have been an out-of-court settlement.

According to the case registered by Senior Civil Police Officer of Mayyil Police Station, the alleged rape happened in the bedroom of the accused attached to a mosque. Rafeeque allegedly laid himself over an 11-year-old boy with sexual intent in his mosque-attached bedroom. Accordingly, police booked him under section 7, read with sections 8, 9, and 10 of the Protection of Children against Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Initially, the investigation report was laid before Additional District and Sessions Court-I, Thalassery. The same report was later handed to a special POCSO court.

The court upheld all charges framed against Rafeeque and he secured bail. After his bail period ended, he appeared in court and pleaded not guilty. His bail was extended.

In the court, the Islamic priest did not bring any witnesses from his side. On the contrary, the prosecution brought three witnesses: the survivor, his friend, and Suresh Babu PK, the police witness who was also the investigating officer in the case.

The accused was questioned under section 313 of CrPC. The section gives power to the court to question an accused in the way it considers necessary. The accused is not under oath and can explain everything regarding incriminating evidence. Even if he gives false answers, the accused is not liable to punishment.

After that, both parties were given opportunities under section 232 of CrPC. The section provides for acquittal if the judge does not find any evidence. Till the end of the process under the section, there was evidence against the accused and he could not produce any supporting evidence so as to effectuate his acquittal. However, at the time of recording testimonies and cross-examination, the survivor turned hostile.

The court did not doubt the competence of the survivor child as a witness. According to Sri Jomon John, Special Judge, the child being 13 years of age at the time of examination before the court, was found capable of giving rational answers. The child explicitly denied that he was subjected to any kind of sexual assault.

When asked whether he had signed the First Information Statement which could result in the incrimination of the maulvi, the child replied in the affirmative. On the other hand, he expressed his disapproval of the contents in the statement made before the police. The second witness, who is also a friend of the survivor, weakened the case by declaring his ignorance. Even fervent cross-examination by a Special Public Prosecutor could not bring forth any substantive result.

Although PW1 and PW2 were declared hostile to the prosecution and vehemently cross-examined by the learned Special Public Prosecutor, nothing was extracted from their mouth in support of the prosecution. It appears from their evidence that the entire matter had been settled out of court, the judge said.

The Investigating Officer who appeared as the third witness presented extensive documents containing investigation and reports. The court observed, He deposed that he had conducted the investigation and laid final report against the accused. However, as the material witnesses did not support the prosecution, the evidence of PW3 assumes no significance."

After examining every piece of evidence and statement, the court reached the conclusion that the prosecution hadnt succeeded in proving the maulvis guilt. At the same time, Special Judge Sri Jomon John also laid out a serious observation.

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From the material evidence of PW1, nothing is gathered to believe that the accused committed any of the offences charged. It is inferred from the evidence of PW1 that the entire matter had been settled out of court, observed the judge.

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After losing two cheetahs in a month, the Kuno National Park is now gearing up to release five big cats into free roaming conditions. The new batch will join the four Namibian felines who have already been released into the open area.

The decision was taken following the recommendations of a team of experts who visited the national park following the death of a male cheetah Uday on April 23, just three months after he was translocated to India from South Africa.

India has so far lost two of the 20 big cats that it has flown in from Namibia and South Africa over the past eight months.

CAUSE OF DEATH UNCLEAR

The initial post-mortem report had suggested that the cheetah had died due to a cardio-pulmonary failure. However, a detailed analysis has shown that he had suddenly developed acute neuromuscular symptoms on the day of his death, just over a week after being released from the quarantine camp into a much larger acclimatisation camp. He was found stumbling around in an uncoordinated manner struggling to lift his head. The cheetah was sedated, moved to isolation ward, where he died just hours later.

Failure of the heart and lungs is common in the terminal stages of many conditions, said the team of experts, but remained perplexed over what may have been the under-lying cause. It does not explain the initial neuromuscular symptoms. The rest of his organ tissues appeared to be relatively normal, except for a localised area of potential haemorrhage in his brain.

There were no other signs of injury, and blood samples confirm that the cheetah was not suffering from any infection that could have otherwise posed a risk to any of the other animals. So far, none of the animals have shown any similar symptoms, and remain in perfect health while hunting for themselves and displaying other natural behaviours, said the team.

However, the histopathology and toxicology reports still need to be finalised before any conclusions can be drawn, according to the experts.

CURRENT STATUS

To date, only four cheetahs from Namibia have been released from BOMAS into the free-ranging conditions. While two of them have remained within the confined borders of the park, two others have ventured beyond the buffer zones.

The female Aasha went beyond the buffer zone, but has not ventured into human-dominated areas so far. Another male Pawan explored areas well beyond the boundaries of the park twice, venturing into farmland near the border with Uttar Pradesh during his second excursion. He was darted by the veterinary team and returned to an acclimatization camp in KNP, said the report.

Now five more cheetahs (three females, two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-roaming conditions before the onset of the monsoon in June.

The remaining 10 cheetahs, including the female who gave birth in March, will remain in her camp to hunt and raise her four cubs till the monsoon gets over.

The park authorities will also open certain internal gates to allow these cheetahs to utilise more space in the acclimatisation camps and for interactions between specific males and females to take place. Further releases into KNP or surrounding areas will be done in a planned manner to Gandhisagar and other areas to establish meta population, according to the expert group.

QUESTIONS OVER KUNOS CARRYING CAPACITY

While there are substantial risks involved, the experts group has now advised that the cheetah be allowed to move out of the national park. They will not necessarily be recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger.

As all big cats are fitted with satellite collars, they will be continuously tracked by the monitoring teams until the individual cheetahs establish home ranges. Meanwhile, the officials have been instructed not to let any of the cheetahs become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase or they will not be able to breed.

The experts group also seem to have dismissed the concerns over the carrying capacity of Kuno, stating that it is impossible to determine the precise carrying cheetah capacity in KNP until the cheetahs have properly established their home ranges.

Cheetah home-range sizes and population densities vary tremendously for different cheetah populations in Africa and for obvious reasons, we do not have useful spatial ecology data for cheetahs in India yet, said the team.

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The team of experts consists of veterinary wildlife specialists from South Africas University of Pretoria, Cheetah Metapopulation Project, The Metapopulation Initiative, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun and National Tiger Conservation Authority, New Delhi.

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Kerala tourist boat accident: Police on Monday took the boat owner, identified as Nasar, into custody from Kozhikode after 22 people lost their lives in a tourist boat capsize incident near the Thoovaltheeram beach in Keralas Malappuram district. Eight people, who were rescued on Sunday evening, are undergoing treatment at various hospitals.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the Taluk Hospital in Tirurangadi in Malappuram district where survivors of the incident are admitted. State Revenue Minister K Rajan and Forests and Wildlife Minister AK Saseendran visited the spot in Malappuram where a tourist boat capsized last night.

During the day, Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan also visited the accident site where the rescue operations are being coordinated by ministers PA Mohammed Riyas and V Abdurahiman.

Malappuram Boat Capsize Incident Latest Updates

The State Human Rights Commission registered a case on its own over the tragic tourist boat accident. Judicial Member of the Human Rights Commission K Baiju Nath directed the Malappuram District Collector and the Chief Port Surveyor of Alappuzha to submit a report within 10 days. The Commission said the suo motu case, based on media reports, would be considered on May 19.

CM Vijayan, after visiting the survivors, said a judicial inquiry has been ordered to look into the cause of the accident.

We have to take measures to ensure that such an incident should not happen. For that, we decided there should be a judicial enquiry. In this judicial enquiry, we will include the technical aspects of the boat. A special investigation team of police will be enquiring into this case," the Chief Minister said.

The Kerala government also announced Rs 10 lakh ex gratia for the kin of the deceased.

Such a huge tragedy has happened. 22 people lost their lives. Five of them escaped by swimmingWe know that no words can comfort these people. Rs 10 lakhs exgratia announced for the families of each person. The government will bear the expenses of those undergoing treatment," he said.

Meanwhile, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Coast Guard teams have reached the spot and a search operation for the missing persons is underway.

A senior district official told PTI that all the 22 people whose bodies have been recovered have been identified.

"We have requested the help of all agencies. NDRF and Coast Guard teams have already reached the spot. We have also sought the Navys help," the official said.

The exact number of people in the capsized vessel is yet to be ascertained, the official added.

The state government announced a day of mourning on Monday and cancelled all official events as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives in the accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the deaths and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of each victim.

"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Ministers National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," Modi was quoted as saying in a tweet by the Prime Ministers Office.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also condoled the loss of lives in the accident.

In a tweet, he said, Distraught by the news of a houseboat capsizing in Malappuram, Kerala. My heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their loved ones, and wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured." I appeal to Congress workers to assist authorities in rescue operations," he said.

Health Minister Veena George has called an emergency meeting following the accident to assess the situation, the state government said in a statement.

George instructed that expert treatment be ensured for the injured and the post-mortem process sped up so that the bodies can be released quickly to the next of kin, the statement said.

The post-mortems will be conducted at Tirur, Thirurangadi, Perinthalmanna hospitals and Mancheri Medical College by bringing sufficient staff, including doctors, from districts such as Thrissur and Kozhikode, it said.

The minister has issued strict instructions to conduct the post-mortems from 6 am and, if possible, at the private hospitals also where some of the bodies have been kept, according to the statement.

Earlier, PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), said the toll is expected to go up as rescue operations continue.

Speaking to reporters from a government hospital near Tanur, he said overcrowding is believed to have been the reason behind the vessel capsizing.

Boats are not supposed to go out for rides after 6 pm but it is believed that the rule was violated in this case, he added.

The incident occurred around 7 pm near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in Tanur, the police said.

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(with PTI inputs)

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Amid a return rush from the violence-hit state of Manipur, airfares from Imphal to Kolkata are going at six to eight times their usual between Rs 20,000- 30,000 fuelled by a high demand. Thousands of people are reportedly camping outside the airport in Imphal waiting to board flights to return to their respective homes.

Airlines that operate flights between Imphal and Kolkata said all flights were running full, according to a TOI report. Travel agents said it was unlikely for the airfare to come down in the next few because of high demand even as the airlines announced extra flights.

Officials at the Kolkata airport said all flights from Imphal coming to the city were full. Indigo operated two additional flights from Imphal to Kolkata on Saturday and an extra ATR flight on Sunday. All three flights were booked fully.

According to a press release by the Airport Authority of India (AAI), 108 flights operated out of Imphal airport between May 4 and May 6 as stranded residents of other states scurried back to their homes amidst the violence.

Manipur was rocked by clashes that broke out on May 3 between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community, which has displaced thousands of people and killed at least 37 so far. Around 23000 civilians have been rescued from the violence-hit state.

Various state governments made arrangements and operated special flights for the safe evacuation of their people stuck in the strife-torn state.

18 students of West Bengal, who were stranded in Manipur were flown back to Kolkata in a special flight arranged by the state government on Monday. The Andhra Pradesh government has also arranged two special flights on Monday to evacuate as many as 157 students from the state stranded in the state.

The Bihar and the Maharashtra governments will also send a special flight to bring back students of the state stuck in violence-hit Manipur on Monday.

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A wary normalcy has prevailed in Manipur as the Indian Army and paramilitary forces worked together to restore peace in the state. The Indian Army on Monday said in a statement that 100 plus columns of Army and Assam Rifles have been working for 96 hours to enhance the surveillance capability in the state.

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Read more

Supreme Court heard a batch of pleas on the Manipur situation on Monday. Three petitions were listed for hearing in the apex court today including one by a BJP MLA challenging the high court order on the issue of scheduled tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community, which appeared to have fanned the clashes in Manipur in the first place.

Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region G Kishan Reddy said the Centre is ready to hold talks with warring groups and resolve their issues.

Manipur was rocked by clashes that broke out on May 3 between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community, which has displaced thousands of people and killed at least 37 so far. Around 23000 civilians have been rescued from the violence-hit state. Air India operated a special Delhi-Imphal-Delhi flight to facilitate stranded people in the state. Various state governments also made arrangements for the safe evacuation of their people stuck in the violence-hit state.

A wary normalcy has prevailed in Manipur as the Indian Army and paramilitary forces are working together to restore peace in the state. Aerial surveillance was conducted in various areas on Saturday to keep a close eye on the situation.

Parties indulged in political blame game over Manipur violence. Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP saying the violence in Manipur resulted from hate politics. According to a PTI report, MV Govindan, the Kerala unit secretary of the CPI(M) said PM Modi and the BJP are trying to woo Christians in Kerala but that community is now being hunted in Manipur.

Congress further targeted Manipur CM N Biren Singh, who heads a BJP-led government, saying he cannot absolve himself and his patrons in New Delhi and Nagpur of the responsibility for the carnage in the state.

Meanwhile, the total curfew imposed in Manipurs Churachandpur district was relaxed for three hours on Sunday from 7 am to 10 am to facilitate people to buy essential items like food and medicine, according to a notification. People were seen in large numbers on the road to buy essential commodities. Army and Assam Rifles columns conducted a flag march throughout the town as soon as the relaxation ended at 10 am.

The riots broke out on Wednesday night after demonstrations were organised by tribals, including Kukis and Nagas, against a proposal to grant the majority Meitei community the scheduled tribe (ST) status. The Meitei community accounts for 53% of the population in the state and lives mostly in the Imphal Valley. The tribals, who account for 40% of the population and include Nagas and Kukis, live mostly in the surrounding hill districts.

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The Declaration of Independence of 1776 began the American

Revolution officially. At the same time, money became the most

pressing issue confronting General George Washington. Raising a

revolutionary army called for heavy financing. It was no accident

that China trade turned out to be so magnetic to a struggling new-

born America.







The Qing court in Peking (Beijing) had no idea what the American

Revolution was about. Virtually, no Chinese cared. But, they cared

about the astonishing range of exotic merchandise coming from a

distant corner of the world known as America. Chinese paid silver

coins for America's seal skins, otter pelts, sandalwood, sea

cucumbers, and ginseng. Yes, Chinese have a long history of

consuming American ginseng.







In a land of rule rather than law, kickbacks and downright bribes

were expected and practiced to grease the hands that moved the

foreign trade along. Local Qing officials were as complicit as their

American visitors when and where their "mutual benefits" were

concerned.







Between 1783 and the early 1800s, America's coffers saw a steady in-

flow of Chinese silver coins. Then, America enjoyed impressive trade

surpluses that helped tide it over until brighter days were on the

horizon. Silver coins shine, don't they?







Like it or not, the love-hate relationship between America and China

practically began with the American Revolution.







Author: renqiulan


Jitendra Kumar, a student pursuing B.Tech from National Institute of Technology (NIT) Manipur, thanked his stars as he, along with seven other students from the same batch, boarded the flight on Monday afternoon.

Jitendra, a first-year student, hails from Uttar Pradeshs Ballia district. Though UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the Home Department to help students stranded in violence-hit Manipur, Kumar and other students said they are yet to get any help.

Jitendra, among the few fortunate who managed their way to the airport, called the 10-km journey from his college to the airport as the longest of his life. It took almost three days for us to cover the 10-km stretch. It was after thorough planning and with the help of the locals that we somehow managed to reach the airport on Monday morning. I thanked the almighty that we were still alive, he said.

The student said it all began almost a week ago when the very first incident, in which a vehicle was set ablaze at Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district, came to light. In retaliation, members of the rival group torched a vehicle in Churachandpur district.

And soon after, things took an ugly turn. Initially, we thought that we were safe at the college campus, but soon we realised that we were stuck, said Jitendra.

His batch-mate Abhishek Kumar, another B.Tech student who hails from UPs Gorakhpur, said the college management helpful, but had their limitations. With all essential services snapped, it was getting difficult for them to feed the students.

There were times when there was no water to drink and we were only served with meal a day. The last six days were the toughest of our lives. It was only pain, trauma and fear. What we experienced is hard to express in words, said Abhishek, who also boarded the flight to Kolkata on Sunday.

He added that the students virtually gave up three days ago. With no food, no money, no internet, no electricity and no help from the state or the Centre, we gave up almost three days ago. We insisted to the college management that we need a vehicle that can ferry us to the airport. After being persuaded for long, the college eventually agreed and provided us a tempo traveller to reach the airport. However, it took us almost three days to reach the airport, which was a mere 10km from the college, he added.

We managed tickets on our own. Since there was no direct flight to UP, we boarded a flight to Kolkata, he said.

The students dont have any plans to return till the situation eases out in Manipur.

Abhishek said more than 150 students from UP are still stuck in Manipur.

Nearly 10,000 soldiers from the Army and the Assam Rifles have been deployed in the state which was rocked by clashes between the Meitei community, who mainly live in Imphal Valley, and Kuki tribals, who are inhabitants of the hill districts. Around 13,000 civilians have been rescued and are currently staying in various ad-hoc boarding facilities specifically created for the purpose military garrisons. The death toll is estimated to have reached 54.

On Sunday, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had directed the Home Department to help students from the state currently stranded in Manipur. The chief ministers direction came after the students appealed to the Uttar Pradesh government to rescue them.

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A government official said Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad had spoken to the chief secretary of Manipur and requested him to help students from Uttar Pradesh. He added that the state relief commissioners office has also been directed to coordinate with the Manipur government.

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Security forces continued Operation Trinetra" for the fourth consecutive day on Monday to track down terrorists hiding in the Kandi forested area in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district, officials said.

A few persons were questioned about the suspected movements of terrorists. However, security forces are yet to establish any fresh contact with the ultras, they said.

There was no fresh contact with terrorists hiding in the forested Kandi area. A massive search operation to track down ultras is on," an official said.

Five Army personnel were killed while a major-rank officer was injured in an explosion triggered by the terrorists in the Kesari hill forest area of Rajouri on Friday morning.

A terrorist, who is said to be the part of a group that carried out an attack on civilians in Dhangri village of Rajouri early this year, was killed the next morning. His associate was believed to have been injured in the exchange of fire with security forces but managed to slip away, the officials said.

The operation code named Trinetra was continuing when the last reports were received, they said.

The security forces carrying the operation were armed with surveillance equipment, sniffer dogs, drones and metal detectors, the officials said.

Sources said three security-cum-cordons have been activated in and around large chunks of the zeroed in area in the Kandi forest.

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Rajouri and Poonch districts in Jammu region, which were declared terrorism-free more than a decade ago, have been rocked by a series of deadly attacks since October 2021, resulting in the killing of 35 people, including 26 soldiers.

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Nettled by the transformation in Jammu and Kashmir after the removal of Article 370 sections, Pakistani agencies are now going all out to derail the May 22-24 G20 meeting in Srinagar, top intelligence sources have told CNN-News18.

All terrorist groups, diplomatic channels, and outfits outside Pakistan have been directed to do everything possible to sabotage the event, they added.

Almost 40 foreign terrorists, waiting quietly in Kashmir for almost a year, have been activated, said the sources. They have been asked to carry out some major activity to suggest Kashmir is not stable, the sources added.

Not just Kashmir, the terror groups have been instructed to execute operations in other parts of India as well, they said.

A recent alert from intelligence wings said these groups may also target central terror investigation agency officials in Delhi.

Sources said it was recently found that terrorists are now hiding in jungles and using Naxal-type guerrilla tactics.

According to intelligence officials, Pakistan wants to tell the world that all actions done by India in Jammu and Kashmir are illegal.

Pakistani foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardaris recent visit to India was also dominated by the Kashmir issue, including the statement issued by his ministry.

Officials said bilateral talks are out of the question unless Pakistan ceases such activities.

India has given a list of the foreign terrorists hiding here to Pakistan agencies through backchannels but there has been no action, said the sources.

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Drugs, weapons, and ammunition are being regularly pushed in from across the border in Jammu and Punjab, they said.

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The Enforcement Directorate on Monday seized three properties at a prime location in Mumbai, valued more than Rs 41 crore, as part of a foreign exchange violation probe against Zavareh Soli Poonawalla whose name was figured in the Panama Papers.

Zavareh Poonawalla is the brother of Cyrus S Poonawalla, the founder and CMD of vaccine major- Serum Institute of India (SII). The company and its promoters are not linked to this case.

In a statement, the federal probe agency said Zavareh Poonawalla and his family member are accused of remitting foreign exchange abroad by mis-utilising the provisions of the LRS (Liberalised Remittance Scheme)".

The ED seized three immovable assets located at the Ceejay House in Mumbais Worli area to the extent of Rs 41.64 crore under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), the statement said.

Zavareh Poonawalla and his family used the maximum permissible limit (as available under the LRS) and from the year 2011-12, they remitted money abroad via mis-declarations under the pretext of family maintenance and self-maintenance etc", the agency said. However, none of their family members was residing abroad or holding NRI status," it alleged.

The entire funds remitted by (Zavareh) Poonawalla, whose name was found in the Panama Papers revelations regarding offshore entities, and his family members under LRS were invested into British Virgin Islands-based Stallast Limited, the ED said.

Dubbed the Panama Papers, an investigation of a stockpile of records from Panamanian legal firm Mossack Fonseca by Washington-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) in 2016 had named several world leaders and celebrities who allegedly stashed away money abroad in offshore companies. Investigators have said not all people whose name figured in this list were offenders.

The ED found that funds remitted by Zavareh Poonawalla and his family members were utilised by Stallast Limited to purchase" four apartments in the Paddington area of central London. Multiple FEMA contraventions were seen in these transactions, it alleged.

The ED said besides mis-declarations" in remittances, Zavareh Poonawalla and his family members also wrongly" claimed these investments as foreign portfolio investments. In reality, the foreign entity was completely controlled by them and thus, they did overseas direct investment in a foreign wholly owned subsidiary without due permission of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the agency said.

The foreign assets were not declared to the RBI, and they continued to hold the foreign assets and are in continuous enjoyment of the same, it alleged.

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The properties abroad were acquired through the funds remitted under LRS to avoid reporting requirements to RBI and thus, (Zavareh) Poonawalla mis-utilised the LRS," the ED said. Therefore, the equivalent value of properties held by them in India have been seized under the provisions of Section 37A of the FEMA," it said.

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A MiG-21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during a routine training sortie in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, killing at least three civilians. In a statement, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said the pilot of the aircraft sustained minor injuries.

ALSO READ | 3 Dead as IAFs MiG-21 Aircraft Crashes on Their House in Rajasthans Hanumangarh; Pilot Safe

The IAF said, A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries."

An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident, said the IAF.

#BreakingNews: IAF releases official statement on MiG-21 fighter aircraft crash in #Rajasthan, pilots safe;Reasons behind the crash yet to be inquired CNN-News18's @kaidensharmaa brings in more updates #planecrash | @GrihaAtul pic.twitter.com/V5qeFjiuYp  News18 (@CNNnews18) May 8, 2023

Called flying coffins owing to their history of mishaps, the IAF has been replacing the MiG-21 fighter jets with more capable aircraft like the Su-30 and the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

INDIA GOT FIRST MIG-21 in 1963

MiG-21 was designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich Design Bureau of the then Soviet Union and Indias longest-serving fighter plane.

It is a Soviet-era single-engine multirole fighter and ground attack aircraft and once formed the backbone of the IAF fleet.

India got its first MiG-21 in 1963 and to bolster the combat potential of the country, 874 variants of the supersonic fighters were inducted.

The MiG-21 Bison, an upgraded version of the MiG-21bis, was first inducted into service in 1976. According to several reports, the MiG-21 had completed its retirement period in the mid-1990s.

The aircraft has been the backbone for a long time and has been famous for thwarting Pakistans aerial attack on February 27, 2019.

In 2012, former Defence Minister AK Antony had said in Parliament that more than half of the 872 MiG aircraft purchased from Russia had crashed, due to which, more than 200 persons, including 171 pilots, 39 civilians, and eight other services people, had lost their lives.

ACCIDENTS SINCE 2020

In the past six decades, more than 400 MiG-21s have been involved in accidents, claiming the lives of around 200 pilots.

2022

July 28: The MiG-21 Bison aircraft killed two pilots during a training sortie in Rajasthans Barmer. October 28: A MiG-29K fighter jet of the Indian Navy crashed off the Goa coast on Wednesday morning after developing a technical malfunction. The pilot ejected safely.

The mortal remains of Indian Air Force pilot Ashish Gupta rested at crematorium for last rites in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. He died in the MiG-21 Bison crash yesterday pic.twitter.com/Do03gOZ2bk ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2021

2021

January 5: A MiG-21 Bison aircraft crashed in Rajasthans Suratgarh while landing. March 17: IAF Group Captain A Gupta was killed after an MiG-21 crashed while taking off. May 20: Squadron Leader Abhinav Choudhary died in a MiG-21 crash in Moga in Punjab. August 25: MiG-21 Bison fighter aircraft crashed in Barmer during a training sortie. December 24: Wing Commander Harshit Sinha died in a MiG-21 crash in Rajasthans Jaisalmer.

With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart. Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 24, 2021

2020

February 23: An Indian Navy MiG-29K aircraft crashed while conducting a routine sortie in Goa. May 8: An Indian Air Force MiG-29 crashed during a training mission in the Hoshiarpur district of Punjab. November 26: A MiG-29K trainer aircraft crashed in the Arabian Sea.

PHASING OUT

On September 30, 2022, the illustrious MiG-21 squadron of the Indian Air Force (IAF) that hit headlines in 2019 for inking a historic record in combat with Pakistan retired after a remarkable journey of 38 years.

As part of the squadron, in February 2019, Wing Commander (Now Group Captain) Abhinandan Varthaman was awarded the Vir Chakra for shooting down a Pakistani F-16 aircraft during a dogfight at the Line of Control.

The squadron was also part of Operation Safed Sagar during the Kargil conflict in 1999.

ALSO READ | OPINION | MiG-21 Aircraft Still Flies in India. Why? Ask the Congress

The squadrons of the planes left in service and would be phased out by the year 2025.

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Inputs from agencies

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The Delhi High Court on Monday expressed shock at Tillu Tajpuriyas killing inside Tihar Jail and asked the Superintendent of Police to be present before the court in the next hearing. The court also sought a response from the jail administration.

Taking cognisance of the case, the Delhi High Court said The Court is unable to comprehend why no steps were taken by authorities if the incident was captured in CCTV cameras inside the jail."

Meanwhile, seven Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP) officials were suspended concerning the ghastly Tillu Tajpuriya murder case, the jail officials said on Sunday. The suspended officer will be sent back to Tamil Nadu.

The development comes days after Director General of Delhi Prisons Sanjay Beniwal wrote to the Tamil Nadu Police asking them to take action against its personnel after they stood as mute spectators inside the Tihar jail premises where Tajpuriya was brutally stabbed to death.

The TNSP personnel were deployed at cell number eight where the incident took place, the officials said. The TNSP provides security on the Tihar jail premises.

Recently, shocking CCTV footage from Delhis Tihar jail surfaced where some four dragged the dreaded gangster out of his cell and stabbed him to death.

In the video doing rounds on social media, the attackers can be seen stabbing Tajpuriya many times on his head, back, face, and neck using sharp-edged improvised weapons inside the prison complex on Tuesday.

Tajpuriya, who was stabbed more than 90 times, tried to shield his face from the brutal attack but his rivals continued to stab him.

In the footage, it appeared that the security personnel remained mute spectators while the assailants kept attacking the gangster.

Speaking on the attack in Delhi jail, former DGP, Uttar Pradesh, Vikram Singh told CNN-News18, This again raises serious questions about the sanitisation, the internal security of the jail, and also the professional competence of the jail staff."

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(With PTI inputs)

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The Indian film industry is not only renowned for its cinematic excellence but also for its fashion and style. Recently, a grand event brought together some of Bollywoods biggest names in the fashion industry to celebrate the countrys most stylish icons. The star-studded affair witnessed leading stars strutting down the red carpet in their fashionable best, setting new trends and inspiring fans worldwide. From Janhvi Kapoor and Ananya Pandays elegant outfits to Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukhs sophisticated ensembles, the night showcased some of the most glamorous fashion trends of the year, making it a fashion enthusiasts paradise. If youre looking for inspiration, lets take a closer look at some of the most remarkable looks from the night and get inspired by the latest fashion trends set in the event.

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Janhvi Kapoor turned heads at the event with her stunning fashion choice - a black strapless dress with metallic detailing. She paired the dress with a sleek ponytail, completing the look with her signature style and glamour.

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Kriti Sanon looked stunning at the event in a black semi-sheer gown with a high neckline, full-length sleeves and see-through details on sleeves, waist, neckline, and legs. She accessorized her outfit with a chunky structured bracelet and black pointed pumps and wore side-parted open locks, minimal makeup, bold smoky eye shadow, winged eyeliner, and glowing rouged skin.

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Sushmita Sen looked absolutely stunning in a midnight blue velvet power suit, featuring a notch-lapel blazer and flared pants. The actor opted for a shirtless look, exuding boss-babe vibes and complemented it with a sleek body chain and strappy pumps. Her lightly-tousled back-sept open locks and striking makeup added to the overall glamour of the outfit.

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At the event, Ayushmann Khurrana made a bold statement with his fashion choice, wearing a lime green suit that turned heads and caught everyones attention. The actor paired the suit with a white shirt and brown shoes, creating a unique and fashionable look that showcased his individuality and style.

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In a coordinated black outfit, Rakul Preet Singh grabbed all the eyeballs. Her ensemble consisted of a cropped blouse and a figure-hugging skirt with shimmering silver diamantes and an asymmetric hemline. She matched the outfit with block heels and a sleek braided hairdo, completing the look with minimal makeup.

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Akshay Kumar looked dapper in a comfy attire. He wore black joggers, a t-shirt, and a jacket that matched the theme and gave an overall baggy look.

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Ananya Panday stole the show in a hot pink asymmetrical blazer dress with padded shoulders, a V neckline, and pulled-up long sleeves. The dress featured a gathered front and a mini hem, creating a chic and fashionable look. To accessorize, the actor opted for hot pink sheer stockings, matching high heels, a golden luxurious bag, shimmering hoops, a gold chain-link bracelet, and rings, adding an extra edge to the outfit. Her side-parted sleek bun and minimal makeup perfectly complemented the look.

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Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia DSouza, the most adored couple in Bollywood, looked absolutely charming at the event. Riteish opted for a classic black suit, while Genelia donned a patterned white outfit, creating a contrasting yet complementary look. The couples chemistry was on full display as they posed together on the red carpet, setting major relationship goals for fans.

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SANKASHTI CHATURTHI 2023: Sankashti Chaturthi is a Hindu festival that is celebrated on the fourth day (Chaturthi) of the lunar month of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight). This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the god of new beginnings.

Here is the significance of Sankashti Chaturthi, the puja muhurat (auspicious time for worship), timings, and the traditional bhog (offering) that is prepared for the deity on this special occasion.

Sankashti Chaturthi: Significance

Sankashti Chaturthi is considered to be a highly auspicious day for Lord Ganeshas devotees, and it is observed with great enthusiasm across India. It is believed that observing a fast on this day can fulfill ones desires, remove obstacles from ones path, and bring prosperity and happiness. This day is especially significant for those who face troubles in their lives and seek divine intervention to overcome them.

Sankashti Chaturthi: Puja Muhurat and Timings

The puja muhurat for Sankashti Chaturthi varies depending on the phase of the moon. On this day, Lord Ganeshas devotees wake up early in the morning and take a bath. They then offer prayers to Lord Ganesha, seeking his blessings and protection. People also observe a fast on this day, abstaining from eating food until the moon rises.

Moonrise on Sankashti Day - 10:04 PM

The Sankashti Chaturthi puja starts in the evening when the moon rises, and it lasts for approximately one hour. It is essential to perform the puja during the muhurat to ensure maximum benefits. The timings for the puja vary from region to region, and it is best to consult a local priest or a religious calendar for accurate timings. According to Drik Panchang, the timings are as follows:

Chaturthi Tithi Begins - 6:18 PM on May 8

Chaturthi Tithi Ends - 4:08 PM on May 9

Sankashti Chaturthi: Bhog

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The bhog or prasad that is offered to Lord Ganesha on Sankashti Chaturthi varies depending on the region. Some of the popular bhog items include modak, laddoo, panchamrut, and fruits. Devotees also prepare special dishes on this day, such as sabudana khichdi, potato vadas, and sweet dishes made of jaggery and coconut.

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Seven-time Tony Award winning Broadway musical directed by three-time Tony Award winning Jack OBrien, The Sound Of Music, marked its debut in India on May 4, 2023. Currently being staged at Mumbais recently inaugurated Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC), the musical is set to run till June 4, 2023. The 2 hours 45 minutes show with an intermission of 20 minutes has two slots  2:30 pm and 7:30 pm.

The timeless story that revolves around the Nonnberg Abbey and the Von Trapp Family has been told in many different forms over the years. It has won hearts as a book penned by Lindsay and Crouse, two German movies and the iconic long-running stage musical. Its most popular screen adaptation is an eponymous film that released in 1965. Directed by Robert Wise and starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, it emerged as the highest-grossing film of 1965. By November 1966, The Sound of Music had become the highest-grossing film of all-time, surpassing Gone With The Wind (1939). Interestingly, it held on that feat for the next five years. And with thousands of stage productions across generations and over hundred countries, its one of the most popular Broadway musicals. Back home in India, The Sound Of Music inspired Gulzars 1972 film, Parichay. But thats a different story.

When NMACC announced that The Sound Of Music is all set to travel to Mumbai, the intrigue and excitement among the citys art connoisseurs and ardent theatre lovers was palpable. The fast-filling seats bear a testament to the same. After days of trying my best of finding a spot, I finally managed to find just a single seat on Saturday (May 6) for the show at 2:30 pm. I quickly had it booked and the next thing I know, I was at the extravagant NMACC. I couldnt help but keep gawking at the art installations in awe.

Apart from the anticipation of finally getting to experience the live spectacle, I had another reason, rather personal, to be thrilled about. At the age of ten, I was up on the stage at the annual fare in my school to perform the play, where I played a nun from the Nonnberg Abbey. Good old days! Anyway, coming back to the point, I still have My Favorite Things, Do-Re-Mi and So Long Farewell, and particularly Maria, imprinted in the nooks of my memory. Watching Jill-Christine Wiley and Trevor Martin brought back so many moments and needless to say, it was an inspiring experience to be a part of such an iconic and extraordinary moment. By the end of it, I was left completely mesmerised and moved.

For the unversed, The Sound Of Music, a fun-filled family drama, narrates the spirited story of young governess Maria Rainer and the Von Trapp family. It is set in the scenic Austria and traces the life and adventures of Captain Georg Von Trapp, a retired officer of the Austrian Navy, and his children. A series of dramatic events unfold through the length of this musical as Maria introduces the Von Trapp kids to music and their widowed father to the joys of affection, culminating in the groups flight across the Austrian mountains.

The colourful song sequences, the beautiful performances, the dramatic light work, the scintillating set design and the stunning costumes made The Sound Of Music a complete jamboree and treat. And a large part of the credit goes to NMACC! The 2000-seat Grand Theatre at NMACC is a crimson-themed affair with a balcony and golden opera boxes. It houses a 250-seat studio theatre with a four-storey art house and 125 seat cubicle with a movable stage. It will surely transfer you to the cinematic opera houses that vintage Hollywood treated us to. What a joy it is to finally have one we can call our own! The auditorium was packed to capacity with demographics ranging from ogling children to octogenarians. Listening to them humming and tapping their feet to the celebrated Do-Re-Mi as Maria takes on the role of an avuncular teacher for the Von Trapp children not only transported me to the 1950s but also took me back to some of the best times of my life as a school-going girl. Watching The Sound Of Music, indeed, felt like experiencing an outstanding and large-scale orchestra play out before your eyes. And Jill-Christine! I wish I could pen down another essay on her brilliance, charisma and spark. An artist par excellence, shes ethereal.

For me, The Sound Of Music wasnt just a checking off a box from my bucket list moment but also a journey down the memory lane. As a lover of visual arts, what brings me immense joy is to have a gift like NMACC almost in the heart of the city to help bring beautiful moments of artistic respite and dramatic pauses in the fast-packed lives of us, Mumbaikars. With India In Fashion, Sangam and The Great Indian Musical: Civilization To Nation, NMACC as a melting pot of artistic potpourri has already set a precedent as far as the cultural roadmap of India goes, but The Sound Of Music has taken that a notch higher by giving Indians a gossamer, glorious and gleeful experience like never.

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If regaling in the beauty of the music, dance and drama is your middle name and if larger-than-life operas onscreen have engulfed you with its mysticism, go for The Sound Of Music. You better hurry up because the seats are filling up a little too fast. You can thank me later. Just a quick suggestion here: choose the middle seats in the lower level for the best sound and view. And do stick around till the very end as the entire cast comes frolicking around to bow down and thankful you. This is a grand experience that you cannot miss out on.

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MOTHERS DAY 2023: A mother is a person who brings a child into the world and nurtures them with love and care. She is the one who comforts and supports her children, always putting their needs before her own. A mothers love is unconditional and knows no bounds, as she guides her children through lifes ups and downs, always offering words of wisdom and encouragement. Her selflessness and sacrifices often go unnoticed, but her presence in our lives is invaluable.

A mothers role in shaping her childs character, values, and future is immeasurable, and her impact lasts a lifetime. Mothers Day honours motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. This year it is being celebrated today on May 14.

ALSO READ: Happy Mothers Day 2023: Heart Touching Wishes, Messages, Images, Quotes and WhatsApp Greetings to Share With Your Mom

MOTHERS DAY 2023: HISTORY

Mothers Day is a holiday celebrated annually in many countries around the world, honouring motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. The modern holiday began in the United States, where it was first observed in 1908.

ALSO READ: Mothers Day 2023: What Really Makes Mother-Daughter Relationship Special? Quotes and Tips to Celebrate

Anna Jarvis, who organized the first Mothers Day celebration, wanted to honour her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, a peace activist who had cared for wounded soldiers during the Civil War. The holiday gained widespread popularity in the United States and was eventually adopted by many other countries.

MOTHERS DAY 2023: SIGNIFICANCE

Mothers Day celebrate and recognize the contributions of mothers to their families and society. It is a day to honour and appreciate the love, care, and sacrifice of mothers, grandmothers, and other maternal figures in our lives. Mothers Day is also a time for families to come together and express their gratitude to their mothers, often through gifts, cards, and special activities.

ALSO READ: Mothers Day 2023 Gift Ideas: Beauty, Fashion and Lifestyle Ideas Shell Actually Love

MOTHERS DAY 2023: QUOTES ABOUT MOTHERS AND MOTHERHOOD

God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers." - Rudyard Kipling A mothers love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity, it dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path." - Agatha Christie All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." - Abraham Lincoln The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness." - Honore de Balzac Motherhood: All love begins and ends there." - Robert Browning

ALSO READ: Happy Mothers Day 2023: Google Doodle Celebrates Mothers Day with Animal Family Throwback Photos

MOTHERS DAY 2023: HOW TO CELEBRATE

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There are many ways to celebrate Mothers Day, and it ultimately depends on your relationship with your mother and what she would enjoy. Here are some ideas:
The impact a nurse makes on health care is unparalleled.

From birth, death and every health need in between, there is oftentimes just one certainty: a nurse will be nearby.

When a loved one falls ill its a nurse that is first to administer care.

But they do so much more. When there are questions, confusion, anxiety; a nurse is there to help.

To further appreciate the value of a nurse, imagine for a second, a life without nurses.

A nurse is there to assist a new mother after childbirth, calm a young child suffering from illness and show compassion when life draws to an end.

These heroes of healthcare play a vital role.

For that reason, the Beatrice Daily Sun sought to again honor some of the areas outstanding nurses. This is the third year the Daily Sun has honored outstanding nurses from across southeast Nebraska.

In partnership with Beatrice Community Hospital and Southeast Community College-Beatrice, the Daily Sun accepted nominations from the public for outstanding nurses. Twenty nurses from across southeast Nebraska were nominated for the honor.

From there, a panel of local judges sorted through the nominations, narrowing the list to Nine Outstanding Nurses.

During that same timeframe, the public was allowed to vote for their favorite nurse online, ultimately picking a Peoples Choice to round the list out to 10 honorees.

There were more than 2,800 votes this year.

When all the votes were tallied it was Laura DeBoer, a nurse at Jefferson Community Health and Life, who finished as the Peoples Choice winner.

The honorees were honored during a banquet at Southeast Community College-Beatrice and each received a gift bag along with a certificate commemorating the honor.

Nurses make such a tremendous difference, Beatrice Community Hospital CEO Rick Haraldson said. They really are the frontlines of healthcare and they do such an important job.

Beatrice Community Hospital was a partner sponsor with the Beatrice Daily Sun. Other sponsors included Southeast Community College and Blossom Khardt.

The care that nurses provide is crucial to our community, said Daily Sun President Patrick Ethridge. I continue to be amazed and grateful for the quality of health care we have in southeast Nebraska and it all starts with amazing nurses. We really are lucky to have so many amazing healthcare workers serving our citizens.

Honorees included:

1. Laura DeBoer Jefferson Community Health and Life

2. Angie Roschewski  BCH Infusion

3. Mikayla Rosenthal  Gage County Medical Clinic

4. Linsey Freitag  BCH Infusion

5. Karly Wegner  Gage County Medical Clinic

6. Kimberly Francis  Gage County Medical Clinic

7. Amy Penner  Good Samaritan Society of Beatrice

8. Kyleigh Swoboda  Beatrice Community Hospital

9. Mary Hadorn  Beatrice Community Hospital

10. Crystal Erb  Beatrice Health and Rehab
Just two days from polling, one thing is absolutely clear in the Karnataka assembly elections. This is a must-win election for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This is obvious from the amount of time and energy the partys prime minister and star campaigner, Narendra Modi, has spent on it. He is not just campaigning, but literally camping, in the state. BJPs last-minute push is as massive as it is impressive. But is it enough? That is the question. Regardless of whether it crosses the halfway mark on its own, the BJP seems poised to win back Karnataka.

Let us consider the major factors at play. As the state goes to the polls on May 10th, the most important swing dynamic in voter preferences is anti-incumbency. It is clear in most of the pre-poll surveys that the electorate is not entirely satisfied with the BJP government or the CM, Basavraj Bommai. The latter is seen as weak and the former as corrupt, despite all the uproar by the party against corruption. Forty percent is jocularly referred to as the alleged percentage of bribe money or extortionate kickbacks.

Whether or not this is true, the so-called double-engine Sarkar has not delivered to expectations, whether on employment or infrastructure. The BJP also faces headwinds when it comes to its North Indian and Hindi belt image. Voters dissatisfaction may turn into bringing back Congress to power. With its strong organisation base, plus two stalwart leaders in former CM Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar, in addition to party president Mallikarjun Kharge, from the state, the Congress has a slight upper hand at the hustings.

To its credit, the Congress has been able to exploit local issues such as agricultural distress, water scarcity, and the biggest of them, unemployment, especially in the countryside. Their manifesto, as does the BJPs, therefore offers sops across the board, but especially aimed at women. The Congress also wants to capitalise on the BJPs anti-minority image. They have promised to restore the 4 percent quota to Muslims which the Bommai government docked.

But heres the rub  in their zeal to appease Muslim voters, the Congress also promised in its manifesto to ban Bajrang Dal. This was a huge error, which would be sure to consolidate Hindu votes in favour of the BJP. If the majority has rejected one Congress policy, it is the politics of appeasement. In fact, Bajrangi BJP would be a winning mantra. After all, who can go against Lord Hanuman in India? He is one of our favourite deities. You might get away by criticising Lord Rama once in a while, but abusing Hanuman would surely land you into a lot of trouble. Realising its mistake, the Congress has tried to make amends. Senior leader and former CM, Veerappa Moily, retracted plans to ban Bajrang Dal, while Shivakumar promised to build one Hanuman temple in each district. Clearly, the BJP has changed the narrative. No one who is perceived to be anti-Hindu has a chance to win in India.

The Congress, prepared for a hung assembly, is also stitching up alliances with smaller parties, and independent candidates. The supporters of one of the latter were caught on camera distributing currency notes to voters of the minority community. Both the BJP, which has brought in close to fifty new faces and taken considerable risks in side-lining old-timers, as well as the Congress, have fielded winnable candidates. Both sides have also intensified the mainstream and social media campaigns, though the BJP is clearly ahead of its rivals as journos visiting its war room report. BJP turncoats may also be Trojan horses, serving to bring down the Congress government if the latter is elected to power.

The biggest force multiplier for the BJP is, of course, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The massive turnouts at his rallies are a clear indication of his appeal among the voters. But one cannot be sure if his popularity will always translate into votes or overcome the rumblings of anti-incumbency. Home Minister Amit Shah and party president, JP Nadda, have also been camping in the state. There can be no doubt in anyones mind how seriously the party is taking these elections. Karnataka is a crucial state for the BJP, given that it is the partys gateway to the South and also the precursor to the 2024 general elections.

This brings me to my argument  BJP will, indeed, retain power in Karnataka. How? There are two possible scenarios. The first and most desirable one is that it will win on its own. The final push by the trimurti Modi-Shah-Nadda will rouse both the cadres and voters to push them past the finish line. If they get 113 seats or more, they will happily install a new CM, probably a Vokkeliga, as their helmsman. The administration will be tightened, corruption brought down, and the party will shore up its power and prestige in preparation for the 2024 general elections. But what happens if it does not get past the halfway mark? If it is only a matter of a few seats, the party is more than capable of managing to win over a sufficient number of MLAs to form the government.

Now we come to the second scenario. What if it is considerably short of numbers, getting no more than 85 or 90 seats as several pre-election polls have predicted? Here is where Plan B will kick in. Yes, the father-son duo of HD Deve Gowda and HD Kumaraswamy of Janata Dal (Secular), will indeed become kingmakers. But only in name. Their political survival as a family party, with a single caste appeal, is under threat. They need the BJP to continue enjoying the spoils of power. They will happily align with the BJP rather than the Congress because they know that a tie-up with the latter may prove suicidal. In such a scenario, JDS will also join the NDA in 2024, bidding for a plum cabinet post in return.

If the Karnataka electorate is as perceptive as it is development-oriented, they will try to give a clear majority to either the BJP or the Congress. This is where the Congress finds itself on the back foot. If it cant win on its own, it will lose. It cannot afford to come out as second best at the hustings. The BJP will also try to win on its own to avoid having to give a pound of flesh to JDS, which betrayed it in the past. But the ruling party knows that even if it comes second in this fight, it has a very good chance of remaining in power. That is why both the rhetoric and the body language of its leaders do not show the nervousness of a side that is about to lose.

The writer is an author, columnist, and professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University. Views expressed are personal.

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The recent spate of violence in Manipur that has erupted after a Manipur High Court order is the outcome of a complex situation in the state where the Meitei community has been seeking a tribal status and for that it came under attack.

A section of media and social media has tried to project this conflict as a tribal vs non-tribal conflict. That seems to be part of a narrative to bracket the Meitei community as a non-tribal. In light of these developments, let us try to find answers to some questions?

Does Meitei have a genuine case for being included in the Scheduled Tribes category? How justified are those who resorted to protests resulting in violence while opposing this demand of the Meitei community. A detailed perusal of the Manipur High Court order makes several things clear in this regard. Here are some key facts and takeaways in this context:

 There were eight petitioners in this case which included Mutum Churamani Meetei, Secretary of the Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union and seven other members of this Union  Puyam Ranachandra Singh, Thokchom Gopimohon Singh, Sagolsem Robindro Singh, Elangbam Baburam, Leihaorambam Projit Singh, Thiyam Somendro Singh and Mutum Nilamani Singh.

 There were four respondents in this (WP(C) No. 229 of 2023) that included the State of Manipur represented by the Chief Secretary (first respondent), Government of Manipur and its Office, Chief Secretary to the Govt. of Manipur (second respondent), Secretary, Tribal Affairs and Hills Department and its Office, Government of Manipur (third respondent) and the Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India (fourth respondent).

 The case was heard by the acting Chief Justice of Manipur High Court Justice M.V. Murlidaran who passed this order. The petitioners had filed this writ petition for issuance of a writ of mandamus directing the first respondent to submit recommendation in reply to the Letter No.1902005/2012-C&IM dated 29.5.2013 of the Government of India, Ministry of Tribal Affairs within a period of two months or within a time frame and to include Meetei/Meitei community in the Schedule Tribe list of Indian Constitution as a tribe among tribes of Manipur, maintaining the tribal status of Meetei/Meitei existed before 21.9.1949 i.e. before signing of the Merger Agreement as part of the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement of Manipur into the Indian Union and also direction on the fourth respondent to restore the Scheduled Tribe status of Meetei/Meitei community. In support of the prayer made, the petitioner submitted that the status of Meetei/Meitei community before the execution of the Merger Agreement dated 21.9.1949 as tribe among tribes of Manipur and while merging Manipur with the Union of India, the Meetei/Meitei has lost the identity of tribe. Therefore, Meetei/Meitei should be included as a tribe among the tribes of Manipur so as to preserve the said community and save their ancestral land, tradition, culture and language.

 The petitioner placed on record various documentary references and evidence showing the earlier Meetei/Meitei community also belonged to tribal community. and further submitted that during the preparation of Scheduled Tribe lists of India under Article 342 of the Constitution of India, the Meetei/Meitei community was left out.

 The argument put forward by the petitioner was that that as per Article 342(1) and 366 (19) (23) (25) of the Constitution of India, the Meetei/Meitei community should be restored the tribe status by recognizing as a tribe/tribal community as the Meitei are still tribe, but the status of Meitei community was left out while preparation of Scheduled Tribe lists. Moreover, the originality, genuineness and distinctness of the Meetei/Meitei was better known by the customary institutions of Manipur, State Government and Central Government Agencies as tribe. In this regard, various individuals, organisations including the petitioners have submitted several representations to the concerned authorities for inclusion by restoring the Scheduled Tribe status of the Meetei/Meitei community to the List of Scheduled Tribes.

 The petitioner further submitted that in reply to the representation submitted by the Scheduled Tribe Demand Committee, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India wrote a letter dated 29.5.2013 to the Government of Manipur. Through this letter the Central government had requested for specific recommendation along with the latest socio-economic survey and ethnographic report.

 Despite this letter dated 29.5.2013, the Government of Manipur failed to submit the recommendation. The petitioner had also submitted a representation dated 18.4.2022 to the Central government that was forwarded by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs for necessary action.

 The petitioner in this case cited a Gauhati High Court Order made in a writ petition (W.P.(C) No.4281 of 2002). After this order (dated 26.5.2003), Chongthu, Khoibu and Mate were included in the List of Scheduled Tribes and now there are 34 numbers of tribal community of Manipur were included in the List of Scheduled Tribe of the Indian Constitution, but Meetei/Meitei tribe was left out.

 The grievance of the petitioners was that while merging Manipur with the Union of India, Meetei/Meitei of Manipur has lost the identity of tribe and the status of the Meetei/Meitei community before execution of the Merger Agreement on 21.9.1949 as a tribe among tribes of Manipur should be maintained by including Meetei/Meitei community in the List of Scheduled Tribe under the Constitution of India.

 In the Gauhati High court case, the petitioner had sought to redress this particular issue that pursuant to the proposal of the Government of India to revise the list of Scheduled Tribes of the States and Union Territories after 50 years of the functioning of the Constitution in terms of Articles 341 and 342 of the Constitution of India, the Govt. of Manipur vide communications dated 31.12.99 and 3.1.2001 recommended 5 (five) Tribes namely, Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmai, Thangal and Zeme for modification in the existing entry with 3 (three) other Tribes namely, Chengthu, Kheibu and Mete were proposed to inclusion as new Tribes. But despite such recommendation of the Govt. of Manipur, all the 8 (eight) Tribes-5 (five) Tribes for modification and 3 (three) Tribes for inclusion in the list of Scheduled Tribes as noticed above, have been left out of consideration by the competent authority.

Interestingly, the government authorities didnt oppose this demand of inclusion of eight communities in the list of Scheduled Tribes. The authorities said in an affidavit filed before the Gauhati High Court, It is stated that the proposal for modification/inclusion of the 8 (eight) Tribes has not been left out of consideration and the consideration of the same is under process. The government authorities had submitted to the Gauhati High Court, The proposals of five communities namely, Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmai, Thangal and Zeme for modifications in the existing entries of the list of Scheduled Tribes and cases of three tribes namely Chongthu, Koibu and Mate for fresh inclusion are being processed as per the approval modalities. It further added, If after examination they are found eligible, necessary amendments in the order specifying the list of Scheduled Tribes of Manipur would be carried out as per provisions of Article 342 of the Constitution of India.

 Thus, the Manipur High Court said in its order filed by Meetei (Meitei) community for granting it the ST status, In view of the above referred statements made by the respondents and also upon hearing the learned counsel for the parties, this Court is inclined to dispose of the writ petition with a direction that the respondents 1 to 4 shall consider the case of the petitioners expeditiously in terms of the averments made in the said paragraphs as alluded above. However, liberty is granted to the petitioners to approach this Court if they are still aggrieved by any decision taken by the Respondents 1 to 4 in this regard

 The Manipur High Court has mentioned while concluding its order that On 18.4.2022, the Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union submitted a representation to the Honble Union Minister of Tribal Affairs with a copy to 12 authorities, including the Chief Secretary, Government of Manipur seeking inclusion of Meetei/Meitei Tribe of Manipur in the list of Scheduled Tribe under Indian Constitution. On 31.5.2022, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs forwarded the said representation to the Secretary, Government of Manipur. In the said forwarding letter, it has been stated, I am directed to refer to this Ministrys letter of even number dated 06/03/2019, 23/07/2021, 15/02/2022 & 07.04.2022 and to forward herewith a representation dated 18.04.2022 of Shri Salam Gourakishwor Singh, Meetei (Meitei) Tribe Union, Kaboleikai, Imphal East District, Manipur 795005, which is self-explanatory, for action as deemed appropriate Scheduled Tribes (STs) are notified under Article 342 of the Constitution. Government of India had on 15.6.1999 (and further revised on 25.6.2002) approved modalities for determining claims for inclusion in and other modifications in list of STs. As per those modalities only proposals recommended and justified by the state Government concerned and agreed to by RGI as well as NCSI are considered for amendment of legislation. All the actions are taken as per approved modalities. The recommendation of the concerned State Government is pre-requisite to process the case further.

Conclusion: According to the Manipur High Court, From the above letter correspondence of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, it is clear that there appears to be a recommendation of the State Government is pending for inclusion of the Meetei/Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list of the Constitution of India.

The Court order stated, This Court finds some force in the submission made by the learned counsel for the petitioners, as the petitioners and other Unions are fighting long years for inclusion of Meetei/Meitei community in the tribe list of Manipur. Thus, the issue of inclusion of Meetei/Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes list of the Constitution is pending for nearly ten years and above. No satisfactory explanation is forthcoming from the side of the respondent State for not submitting the recommendation for the last 10 years. Therefore, it would be appropriate to direct the respondent State to submit its recommendation to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs within a reasonable time.

The court order asked the state government of Manipur to consider the case of the petitioners for inclusion of the Meetei/Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list, expeditiously, preferably within a period four weeks from the date of receipt of a copy of this order in terms of the averments set out in the writ petition and in the line of the order passed on 26.05.2003 in writ petition (WP(C) No. 4281 of 2002 by the Gauhati High Court.

The writer, an author and columnist has written several books. He tweets @ArunAnandLive. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication.

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Vaani Kapoor is ready to slay the summer season with her latest photoshoot for Global Spa magazine. Check out the sexy photos from the shoot.
The United States has witnessed at least 191 mass shootings so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. There have been more mass shootings than days in 2023. Mass shootings are defined as an incident in which four or more victims are shot or killed, according to the archive.
Despite several fatal boat accidents in Kerala over the last 100 years and three Commission of Inquiry reports recommending preventive measures, lack of government intervention resulted in the boating tragedy here that claimed 22 lives, the opposition Congress and BJP contended on Monday.

According to survivors and those who avoided boarding the fateful boat, the tour boat operators last trip gimmick which led to the vessel being packed beyond its capacity and not heeding to bystanders warnings of the boat tilting to one side before it took off, all contributed to the disaster.

The statements of the survivors, bystanders and local residents of the area reveal that the vessel was a fishing boat which was converted into a recreational vessel, it did not have a licence to offer boating services, it lacked sufficient safety equipment like life jackets, the same were not provided to passengers and it was filled beyond capacity, checking all the boxes of donts that the panels had outlined.

Poorly designed vessels, their shoddy maintenance, absence of navigational aids, overloading and negligent conduct of the crew were some of the reasons cited by the inquiry commissions, set up in 2002, 2007 and 2009 after various boating tragedies, for such accidents in the past several decades.

In 2002, after the Kumarakom boat tragedy that claimed 29 lives, the Justice K Narayana Kurup Commission of Inquiry (CoI) had found that poor condition of the boat, poor maintenance, overloading and negligent conduct of the crew were responsible for the accident.

In 2007, after the Thattekkad boat accident which claimed lives of 14 students and three teachers  who were part of a school picnic trip  the Justice M M Pareed Pillay CoI had found that overloading and untimely hours of the ride were the reasons for the tragedy.

In 2009, the E Mytheenkunju CoI found that overloading, inexperienced crew and lack of stability of the boat were the causes for the Thekkady boating accident that claimed lives of 45 tourists when a double decker boat of Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) capsized in Thekkady lake.

A 2013 National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) report also points out that the state government has not heeded any of the recommendations of these committees.

The NHRC report titled Boat Accidents in Inland Waters of Kerala came in the wake of a boating accident on January 26, 2013 which according to it could have been avoided if the recommendations of the CoIs had been followed.

The CoI recommendations included evenly distributing passengers inside the boat, not overcrowding, use of properly designed boats, wearing of safety jackets, providing safety instructions to passengers and establishing rescue coordination centres in important tourism spots.

Violation of all these recommendations contributed to the Tanur boat accident on Sunday evening, according to the locals of the area, survivors of the tragedy and the opposition Congress and BJP.

The Kerala government on Monday announced a judicial probe into the matter and decided to give a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased.

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly and senior Congress leader V D Satheesan, who visited the accident site and the homes of those who died in the tragedy, termed it as a man-made disaster.

He alleged that despite the Thekkady and Thattekkad boating tragedies, there were no mechanisms in place to prevent recurrence of such incidents and though the locals complained that the boat service was illegal and unlicensed, the authorities did nothing to check it.

Satheesan, in a statement, claimed that the situation in the state was one where everyone thinks they can do anything and get away with it.

He urged the government to check licences, ensure compliance of rules and safeguards and investigate why authorities turned a blind eye to the allegedly illegal service.

The Congress leader also asked the government to set a time frame within which the judicial inquiry, announced by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, would be completed without giving any extension to the term of the commission.

BJP state president K Surendran too spoke along similar lines and also demanded the resignation of Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, according to a statement issued by his party.

Surendran alleged that the tragedy occurred due to the negligence of the state government and its lack of intervention despite several instances of violation of boat service rules in Kerala.

The BJP leader said if Riyas has any shame, he should resign from the post of Tourism Minister as his department should be aware of how such a boat was operating in a place also frequented by tourists.

The party state chief said the Tourism department spends crores on advertising Kerala Tourism but could not put in place a common system for vessels offering boating services.

He alleged that recurrence of such a tragedy was due to the state government not paying heed to the reports regarding the Thekkady and Thattekad boating accidents.

Even according to the police, the vessel reportedly was converted from a fishing boat to a recreational one, lacked a licence to operate, was filled beyond capacity and no life jackets were provided to the passengers.

While 22 people died in the tragedy, eight others were rescued and are undergoing treatment at various hospitals, district officials said.

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The boat, which was carrying 37 people, capsized near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in Tanur area around 7.30 pm on Sunday.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party never contacted NCP leader Ajit Pawar and certain imaginary news is being spread, state BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule claimed on Monday.

He said, in fact, the junior Pawar is being targeted by Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which includes Shiv Sena (UBT), Nationalist Congress Party, and Congress.

Speaking to reporters in Pune on the sidelines of a conclave of BJPs in-charges of poll booths, Bawankule claimed Sharad Pawars decision to resign as NCP chief and subsequent U-turn was nothing but a nautanki (drama). He said the entire resignation episode was scripted.

Neither I nor Ajit Pawar have been in contact with each other for the last four months. In fact, the junior Pawar is being targeted by MVA. We (BJP) never contacted Ajitdada and imaginary news is being circulated, he said.

Intense speculation about Ajit Pawars future political steps started doing rounds last month after Sharad Pawar reportedly told Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray that NCP will never join hands with the BJP, even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

On his part, Ajit Pawar had scotched such speculation and said he would remain in NCP till he lives.

Queried about the churn caused by Sharad Pawars announcement to step down as NCP president and subsequent withdrawal of that decision, Bawankule said the developments in NCP over three days were a script and everyone knew about it.

I strongly believe so though some people may differ. But the pertinent question is how will a big leader like (Sharad) Pawar who became president of several cooperative bodies including Rayat Shikshan Sanstha by altering their constitutions, can allow anyone to become the president of the party founded by him? the BJP leader questioned.

Bawankule said he knew about the recent game in the NCP. This episode was nothing but a vagnatya (folk drama). I knew they wanted to do nautanki for three days, which they did.

When asked if NCP is playing as a B team of BJP in Karnataka polls by fielding at least 40 candidates, Bawankule said such an assumption was not true.

The BJP does not need the help of NCP. The BJP is present at the grassroots in Karnataka. The way Prime Minister Modiji is reaching out to people there, we are sure to win more than 105 seats and form a government (again), he said.

Some opposition parties had alleged that BJP leaders from Maharashtra are campaigning against Marathi-speaking people in Karnataka, a state which has a long-standing border dispute with Maharashtra.

When asked about these allegations, Bawankule said there is no compromise when it comes to the BJPs poll symbol lotus and the party ideology.

Lotus is our ideology, and every leader and worker works for the party under our poll symbol, he said and added that the BJP has not deviated from its stand and is committed to (resolving) issues of Marathi-speaking people living in Karnataka.

He evaded a direct reply when asked if BJP has prepared plan B anticipating the Supreme Courts ruling on the dispute between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

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There is no place for ifs and buts in life. Let the decision come. If the opposition demands to prove the majority tomorrow, the Shinde-led government (of which BJP is a part) will win the majority with more than 184 votes (in the 288-member House, Bawankule claimed.

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Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has claimed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) distributed money among Congress MLAs in the state to topple his government. Gehlot said Congress legislators who took money from BJP should return it.

The Rajasthan CM went on to say that he is worried now that the BJP is not taking money.

Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Shekhawat conspired to topple our government. They distributed the money but are not taking it back, I am worried about why they are not taking the money, he said at an event in Dholpur while apparently referring to the 2020 rebellion in Rajasthan Congress.

I told our MLAs if you have taken money from them Rs 10 crore, Rs 20 crore and have spent a part of it. I will get the money spent from AICC. But return money to Amit Shah, dont keep their money. I told our MLAs that we forgive your mistakes, he added.

#WATCH | Rajakheda, Dholpur: Amit Shah, Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Shekhawat conspired to topple our government. They distributed the money but are not taking it back, I am worried about why they are not taking the money: Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot pic.twitter.com/sWSfpAh669 ANI MP/CG/Rajasthan (@ANI_MP_CG_RJ) May 7, 2023

Gehlot also claimed he survived the 2020-revolt by some Congress MLAs because BJP leaders Vasundhara Raje and Kailash Meghwal refused to support a conspiracy to topple an elected government through money power.

He further said that as the state party chief, even he did not support the toppling of the BJP government led by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as it was unfair, in the same manner, Raje and Meghwal said that there is no tradition in Rajasthan to topple an elected government.

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In July 2020, Sachin Pilot with several Congress MLAs revolted against Gehlot. The month-long crisis ended after the intervention of the partys high command. Pilot was then removed as the deputy chief minister and state Congress president.

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Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar has said he is surprised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given religious slogans during election campaigning in Karnataka, which votes on May 10.

When one takes up a religion or religious issue in an election, it creates a different type of environment and it is not a good thing, Pawar told a regional news channel.

Speaking to reporters in Pandharpur temple town earlier on Sunday, the NCP chief claimed the Congress will come to power in Karnataka.

We take oath for democratic values and secularism at the time of contesting an election, Pawar told TV9 Marathi.

I am surprised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given religious slogans during campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly elections. We have accepted the concept of secularism. When you take up a religion or religious issue in an election, it creates a different type of environment and it is not a good thing," he said.

Asked about the ongoing agitation at Barsu village in Maharashtras Ratnagiri district where a section of locals are opposing a mega oil refinery project, the NCP leader said he was keen on visiting the place, but it will be decided when and how he finds the time.

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I had a meeting with representatives of Barsu villagers. I will hold another meeting with experts. I feel the issue should be taken forward by taking the villagers into confidence, he said.

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In the sea of endless bizarre food videos, an elderly man is winning hearts on social media thanks to his humble and simple lemon soda recipe. The 78-year-old man earns his livelihood by selling soda on the narrow lanes of Amritsar. In the video, posted on Twitter, the old man is seen making the drink from scratch, using fresh lemons and soda water while standing in the scorching heat. The elderly man has impressed people on the internet with his spirit and hard work.

The video is from a street near Golden Temple and the 78-year-old man reveals that he has been selling soda for 25 years. Despite their old age, the man has no other option but to work as there is no one to support him financially. While many become dependent on others or start begging in such situations, this elderly man says he prefers to earn his living through honest work.

Sharing the motivational video, a Twitter user named Hatinder Singh revealed that the elderly man has poor eyesight and also faces difficulty in hearing.

Despite all the physical challenges, he carries his soda cart throughout the day under scorching heat to earn a livelihood.

Let's Call The Day Praising Babaji From Sri Amritsar Sahib Selling Lemon Soda On Streets,80Years Of Age, His Eyesight Is Poor, Can't Hear Properly, Knees Don't Work,Still Carries Soda Cart For Whole Day Under Scorching HeatHis Smile Is Heartbreaking Salute To His Hardwork pic.twitter.com/qK8EVBerHQ    (@Hatindersinghr3) May 6, 2023

Social media users are left heartbroken and emotional listening to his story.

Reacting to the clip, a user appreciated the mans self-confidence and commented, Not once did he ask for any help. Thanks for bringing his story here and share his name too, if u can.

Please do tell how to help him.NOT once did he ask for any help. Uff Thanks for bringing his story here, and share his name too, if u can. Tavleen Singh Aroor (@Tavysingh) May 7, 2023

Another user praised his generations work ethic and added, That generation, hats off. Waheguruji Ka Khalsa Waheguruji ki Fateh! Punjabis never beg.

That generation , hats offWaheguruji Ka Khalsa Waheguruji ki Fateh! Punjabis never beg!! S Paul (@Tiger476Hawkeye) May 7, 2023

Expressing concern, a third user wrote, Really broke my heart, tear in my eyes, please let us know how we can help him so that he can find some ease in his life.

Yaar really broke my heart, tear in my eyes, please let us know how we can help him so that he can find some ease in his life. one thing i really wanna say that if we have desire like uncle we can achieve anything in life, never give up, never cry for small small things.Thanks Md. Usman Hussain (@usman11hussain) May 7, 2023

Another user praised his hard work and honesty, writing, Absolutely, hardworking people, honest, sincere, struggling to make ends meet are the real Heroes, not the Black money Crorepatis. I hope that Karma works to reward him.

Absolutely - hard working people - honest, sincere - struggling to make ends meet are the real Heroes - not the Black money Crorepatis. I hope that Karma works to reward him ANUJ KUMAR (@ANUJ_INDIA01) May 7, 2023

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Seeing the video, many people offered to help the elderly man. While the man doesnt use a mobile phone, the man, who posted the clip, said he has sent some local friends to find the old mans whereabouts and soon hell share more information about him.

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Pakistan faced criticism from both Taliban-led Afghanistan and China during the recently concluded China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers Dialogue held in Islamabad.

Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang and Taliban-led government appointed acting foreign minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi met with Pakistan foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

Amir Khan Muttaqi, Afghanistans acting foreign minister, who is under a travel ban by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), was granted an exemption to travel to Islamabad, where he met with his Chinese counterpart, Qin Gang.

Qin and Muttaqi also met Pakistan chief of army staff General Asim Munit where they discussed issues of mutual interest including defence cooperation and border management.

Gang during his meeting with General Munir demanded that security for the projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Chinese nationals residing in Pakistan should be upped, people familiar with the developments told CNN-News18.

China continues to invest billions in Pakistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is a network of roads, railways and ports but the project threatens the sovereignty of Pakistan as it pushes it into a debt-trap.

Gang also conveyed Beijings message to the Pakistani army leadership on military outposts in Pakistan. General Munir reaffirmed Pakistans commitment to the China-Pakistan strategic relationship and also pledged full support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

The project is a vital component of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), another project that also threatens the sovereignty of nations which come under it. Munir thanked Beijing for its unwavering support for Islamabad on regional and international issues.

Foreign Minister Qin Gang underscored the importance of the longstanding strategic relationship between the brotherly nations and expressed his satisfaction over the progress made on the CPEC while reiterating Chinas commitment to its timely completion, the Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan (ISPR) said in a press release.

Munir and Gang also agreed to enhance China-Pakistan partnership in defence and security to effectively counter common security challenges, the release said.

Munir in his meeting with Afghanistan foreign minister (acting) Amir Khan Muttaqi discussed issues related to regional security and border management. Both of them also discussed how to formalise bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment.

Pakistan is currently facing a wave of terrorism due to the Pakistan Taliban aka Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The terrorist group continues to carry out deadly attacks on innocents and has the Pakistan security establishment in its crosshairs.

The Pakistan security establishment and the political leadership are unable to figure out why the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan is not reining in their Pakistan unit. It should be noted that the Taliban government played a crucial role in brokering peace talks between both sides and helped implement a ceasefire that no longer exists.

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General Munir said that both brotherly neighbours must tackle common challenges of terrorism and extremism.

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The man who burned himself to death Sunday morning in the middle of a dirt lane on the west end of Billings was Jason Long.

He was 39 years old, and he loved his mother.

A couple of years ago he got enough money to visit his parents in North Carolina at Christmastime. His mother was so thrilled she promised to cook him whatever he asked for. He asked for meatloaf.

Jason would call his mother regularly, and sometimes theyd talk for two or three hours.

He would always tell me he loved me. And I would always say I loved him to Mars and back, said his mother, Phyllis Holloway.

Early on the morning of his death, Jason sent her a text. He had wanted to say goodbye over the phone, but couldnt make himself call.

I just cant keep going on, he told her in the text.

She knew he was having troubles, and could get down on himself. But, she didnt know how bad it was.

She doesnt want him remembered as the man who set himself on fire.

He wasnt just a body. He wasnt just some random guy. He was loved. I loved him so much, she said.

Phyllis had two sons, Jason and his little brother Justin. They were born a year apart. When the boys were age six or so, their mother divorced. She remarried, this time to a good guy named Tim.

For 20 years, the family lived together in Billings and later Bridger where the boys graduated from high school. Tim made a living as a truck driver before he was in a terrible accident while driving in Wyoming. He was hit head on by a man who was speeding home to attend his childs birthday party. The man was killed, and Tim almost was.

After the accident left Tim disabled, they moved to North Carolina where they had family. The brothers stayed in Montana. In 2018, Justin died under mysterious circumstances. If he was murdered, as the family suspects, the police didnt see it that way. They believed he committed suicide.

Nothing ever came of it, Tim said. The cops just kind of werent interested in it. Justin was cremated and his remains are with his parents in North Carolina.

Jason stayed in the Billings area. He worked for an underground utility locating service. When someone called one of those call before you dig phone numbers, it was Jason who answered.

In his text Sunday morning to his mother, which she received at about 4 a.m., he apologized for the pain his death would cause her.

Im so sorry this is happening to you, he told her.

He said he regretted not being able to give her grandkids. He regretted not being more successful professionally and financially.

I wont tell you not to be sad, he said.

He wanted his remains to go to her and Tim. Please, just keep me with Justin, he said.

He promised to send her a picture of himself, a happy photo they could remember him by. And then he signed off with Love you. Good bye.

The text to his mother wasnt the only one Jason sent that morning.

He also sent one to a trusted co-worker, urging him to call police so they could deal with it before someone in the public saw it. He also wanted to shield his friend. Jason had gone to the spot where he killed himself in a company truck. He wanted his friend to pick up the truck, but not until hours later.

I really dont want to (mess) you up, he told his friend. I really, really dont want you to see the results of what Im going to do.

He told the work friend where the truck would be, with the keys in the passenger side tool box.

I love you, man, he told the friend. Im so sorry, you were my best bud, hell, my only bud.

In other texts he sent that morning he said he loved his wife and didn't blame her for his troubles.

Tim and Phyllis got the bad news early Sunday, from a relative of family in the Billings area.

We were both asleep, it was early here, said Tim. I heard the call and then all I heard was her screaming.

When the two married 31 years ago, the two boys were still young enough to bond quickly with Tim, and regard him as their real father.

They were my boys, Tim said. I was the one who taught them how to ride bikes, how to fix cars. I taught them a work ethic.

He also taught them to drive, which at first didnt go well.

Jason, first thing, ran the car right into a tree, right in the front yard, Tim said. He laughs about it now, and he wasnt mad at the time, either.

It wasnt the car or the tree I cared about, it was him. I cared about him, he said.

Tim regrets not knowing how sad Jason was.

If Id have known he was having this kind of trouble, Id have driven to Montana and tied him up if I had to and brought him home with us, he said.

Besides wanting to have Jasons remains returned home to them, theres something else Tim and Phyllis want.

If you see someone going through something like this, say something, do something, Tim said. Dont just sit on your damn hands, do something.

If you or someone you know needs help, call 988 or 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org. You can also text HELLO to 741741 to speak with a trained professional at the Crisis Text Line. Anyone feeling suicidal can also call 911.
Canada announced Monday the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat accused of having sought to intimidate a Canadian lawmaker and his family over the MPs criticisms of Beijing.

Canada has decided to declare persona non grata Mr. Zhao Wei," Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said in a statement.

I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behavior, they will be sent home," she added.

Canada has decided to declare persona non grata, Mr. Zhao Wei. pic.twitter.com/rZXeNTtdV4 Melanie Joly (@melaniejoly) May 8, 2023

The expulsion followed an outcry led by parliamentarian Michael Chong over a damning report by the Globe and Mail last week claiming Ottawa had turned a blind eye to Beijings interference in Canadian affairs.

The newspaper said Chinas intelligence agency had planned to target Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong with sanctions for voting in February 2021 for a motion condemning Beijings conduct in the Xinjiang region as genocide.

This was almost certainly meant to make an example of this MP and deter others from taking anti-PRC positions," the report cited a Canadian Security Intelligence Service document as saying, using an acronym for the Peoples Republic of China.

Zhao Wei, a diplomatic official at Chinas consulate in Toronto, was reported to be involved in the intrigue.

After Chinas ambassador was summoned last week over the allegations, Beijing on Friday slammed what it called groundless slander and defamation" by Canada.

The Chinese foreign ministry denied any wrongdoing, insisting the scandal had been hyped up by some Canadian politicians and media."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has faced growing pressure to take a hard line with Beijing following revelations that it sought to sway Canadas 2019 and 2021 elections  which China has also rejected.

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The accusations have become the focus of parliamentary committee hearings and other investigations.

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Chinas Defence Minister Gen. Li Shangfu told Pakistans naval chief Amjad Khan Niazi on Monday that the two all-weather friends should seek new areas of military cooperation and jointly safeguard their security interests and region.

Li said the relations between the militaries of the two countries are an important part of China-Pakistan relations, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including the two navies, has achieved good results.

Li said the militaries of the two countries should expand exchanges in new areas, create new cooperation highlights, and work together to safeguard the security interests of both countries and the region, a defence ministry statement here said.

Observers say Sino-Pakistan military cooperation in recent years focussed more on the navy as China gradually stepped up its naval presence in Indias backyard, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea where it is developing Pakistans Gwadar port.

Besides acquiring four modern naval frigates from China, Pakistan will also be getting eight Chinese submarines as part of the efforts to modernisation, Admiral Niazi told the Chinese media during his visit earlier.

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Kumar said last month that Pakistan Navy is modernising itself at a good pace and seeks to become a 50-platform force in 10-15 years, and they are adding new corvettes and frigates to their fleet.

Niazis visit is part of a flurry of high-level visits between the two countries this month amid Pakistans deepening economic and political crisis and reports of leaked documents highlighting deliberations in the Pakistan establishment on whether to move closer to the US to balance ties with China.

Early this month, Pakistans Army chief Gen Asim Munir made his maiden visit to Beijing during which he met senior Chinese Generals and top diplomat Wang Yi who is the Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.

During Gen. Munirs visit, Chinas new Premier Li Qiang also held his first phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised continued financial help for Pakistan which is facing a serious political and economic crisis.

It was followed by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gangs visit to Islamabad on May 5-6 during which he also met Army chief Gen. Munir.

The visits followed reports in the US and Pakistan media quoting two Pakistani memos pointing to a deliberation in the countrys political and military establishment to open up relations with the US to balance ties with China.

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In one of the memos, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar warned that Pakistan can no longer try to maintain a middle ground between China and the United States."

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A woman from Telangana was among the eight people killed in a mass shooting near Dallas in Texas state of the US on Saturday.

27-year-old Aishwarya Thatikonda, an engineer from Hyderabad, was among those killed after a gunman opened fire at Allen Premium Outlets mall in Texas.

Indian envoy in Houston offered condolences and support to Thatikondas family. Embassy officers are in touch with family and local authorities, providing all possible assistance and closely monitoring the situation, the envoy said in a Tweet.

We express our deep condolences to the family of Ms. Aishwarya Thatikonda who died in the tragic shooting incident in Allen, Texas on May 6.We are in touch with the family of the deceased as well as the local authorities. Our officers are on the ground to render all possible India in Houston (@cgihou) May 8, 2023

Aishwaryas friend, who was also an Indian national, was among the seven persons injured in the incident.

Aishwarya, a resident of the Saroornagar area in Hyderabad, was working as a project manager at Perfect General Contractors LLC in Texas. She had gone out shopping at the mall with her fiance when the man opened fire at a crowd.

Her family was in deep shock after receiving the news of her death. Her father Narsi Reddy works as a judge in Rangareddy district court.

According to a report in The Hindu, Aishwarya was a daughter of a district judge in Ranga Reddy district court, was staying in Dallas, Texas.

Aishwarya obtained a Bachelors degree in civil engineering from Osmania University and completed her MS in construction management from Eastern Michigan University.

The horrific incident happened when a man went on a rampage at a Texas mall and shot dead eight people before he was himself killed.

Responders, distressed witnesses and police described scenes of panic and horror in Allen, where video footage shared online showed the shooter exiting a sedan in an outlet mall parking lot and firing a semi-automatic rifle at people walking nearby.

Eight people were declared dead, including the shooter, while two others died in the hospital, authorities said.

The Texas Department of Public Safety identified the suspected shooter as Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old from Dallas, in a statement Sunday evening.

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Eight Americans  including children  were killed yesterday in the latest act of gun violence to devastate our nation," Biden said in a statement Sunday.

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French President Emmanuel Macron will make his first state visit to Germany in July, the two countries said Monday, amid persistent tensions on issues ranging from energy policy to China.

Macron will visit Germany from July 2 to 4 at the invitation of President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to honour the close friendship of the two countries in the 60th year of the Elysee Treaty" on bilateral relations.

It will be the first state visit by a French president in 23 years, Steinmeiers office said.

Macron will visit several regions of Germany" with Steinmeier to underline the unique ties between our states, our citizens and particularly German and French youth".

This special event marks the beginning of a new chapter in the decades-old friendship of the two countries," Berlin said, as well as the close personal ties" between Steinmeier and Macron.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock will travel to Paris this week to prepare the visit, meeting her French counterpart Catherine Colonna on Tuesday and joining a cabinet meeting at the Elysee Palace on Wednesday, Macrons office said.

Colonna is expected in Berlin on Thursday for talks with the foreign ministers of Germany, Jordan and Egypt on the situation in the Middle East.

Macron will then travel to Potsdam outside Berlin to meet German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on June 6 ahead of a series of key events, including the conference for a new global financial pact and a European Union summit in late June, and a NATO summit in July.

The French presidency also announced a meeting of the two governments in the autumn to foster ever closer cooperation between the two countries".

- Like a good marriage -

The stepped-up diplomacy comes amid friction on a range of issues central to both governments.

Germanys phase-out of nuclear power as France pursues new construction of reactors has proved contentious in recent months, as have a reform of the EUs stability and growth pact and major defence acquisition programmes.

Macron meanwhile sparked controversy last month after a visit to China, by saying that Europe should not be a follower" of either Washington or Beijing, or get caught up in any escalation over the future of Taiwan.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius criticised Macrons remarks as unfortunate", adding: We have never been in danger of becoming or being a vassal of the United States."

Beijing announced Monday that Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang would visit Germany, France and Norway this week, as China pushes to act as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict.

On Monday, German foreign ministry spokesman Christofer Burger denied a major rift between Paris and Berlin over China, saying that the two capitals coordinated on policy more than with hardly any other partner".

Asked about the chronic differences between the core duo at the heart of the EU, Scholzs spokesman Steffen Hebestreit insisted that ties were friendly and built on trust" and that any close relationship needed work.

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Its like in a good marriage," he told reporters. You can always give it fresh impetus so that it remains good and intensive, and thats the case in the German-Franco relationship."

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After skipping King Charles Saturday coronation, Meghan Markle was spotted hiking in California with her friends over the weekend.

Prince Harry attended the May 6 ceremony in Westminster Abbey without wife Meghan or either of their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The Duke of Sussex flew back to California minutes after the coronation ceremony from London to celebrate Prince Archies fourth birthday.

It was reported that Meghan would be at their California home, celebrating Archies fourth birthday, instead of the Coronation to avoid any awkward interactions with her increasingly estranged in-laws.

According to a report in Pinkvilla, Meghan Markle was spotted outside for a peaceful 40-minute hike from her $15 million home on Sunday morning. However, Harry and the two children didnt join Markle for the outdoor adventure.

Meghan was hiking with Markus and Heather   She's protecting her peace while maintaining healthy lifestyle and I'm here for it  pic.twitter.com/d5mdr9asvZ Katerina (@Le__Katerina) May 7, 2023

She was joined by her friends Markus Anderson and Heather Dorak.

A photo of the hike, which has now gone viral, shows the Duchess of Sussex in her outfit casual in activewear bottoms, a blue loose-fitted top, and brown hiking shoes along with a green jacket tied around her waist.

The report said that she seemed to try to hide herself with a scarf, sunglasses and a hat.

This rare appearance came after Meghan Markles decision not to attend King Charles IIIs coronation. The historic event coincided with Prince Archies fourth birthday.

Prince Harrys young children Archie and Lilibet 23 months, were with their mother Meghan while their father put in a solo appearance in London.

Lol! Our beautiful Duchess Meghan enjoying her life to the maximum seen hiking with friends the deranged said she has no friends thanks for not attending the cults rituals. you Meg. pic.twitter.com/D7ZSYyu5yv Queen Nefretiti (@6fmd8djff9) May 8, 2023

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan quit royal duties in 2020 and have since unleashed a string of barbed attacks on the monarchy.

According to royal biographer Omid Scobie, Meghan Markle skipped King Charles IIIs coronation in an attempt to protect her peace."

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She is aware just how much of the spotlight goes on her when she sets foot near the story. Its portrayed as intentional. Should she come over and just stand next to her husband, the commentary and the narrative of the day would have been very different, Omid Scobie claimed earlier this month.

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Pakistan in 2022 remained among the worlds worst performers in terms of internet access and digital governance, according to a report released on Monday.

Titled Pakistans Internet Landscape 2022", the report was released by Bytes For All  a human rights and advocacy organisation  which explores in detail the relationship between human rights and information and communication technologies in Pakistan last year.

In terms of internet access and overall governance, Pakistan made some gains, but in the context of the world, the country remains among the worst performers, even within just Asia, according to the report.

It highlights that despite an increase in internet penetration, approximately 15 per cent of the population still lacked access to the internet and mobile or telecom services.

Add to this a lack of inclusivity and digital literacy, one of the biggest global gender gaps in access and a struggle to stay online due to load-shedding and blackouts brought on by an energy crisis and catastrophic floods, and a dismal picture emerges, it said.

It pointed out that Pakistan ranked last out of 22 countries in Asia overall, and 79 globally across the key indicators of availability, affordability, relevance and readiness.

Moreover, a massive gender gap in both internet access and mobile phone access for females was noted as a major issue in the country.

The Bytes for All report said they highlighted Pakistans poor standing in terms of access for females, though noting that the gap had narrowed slightly over time. In summary, Pakistan had the widest gender gap in mobile ownership of all countries surveyed with just half of women owning a mobile phone, as compared to over 75 per cent of men, it stated.

The report also highlighted the failure to realise the digital governance potential and said both the federal and provincial governments introduced a number of online initiatives, but the momentum for a Digital Pakistan could not make progress.

The report also highlighted the impact of catastrophic floods in the second half of 2022 in this regard, stating that they proved to be the greatest challenge for the government, with 33 million people affected and extensive damage to infrastructure  including telecom and the internet.

It also concluded that cybercrime in Pakistan saw a steady rise, with over 100,000 complaints registered by December 2022, marking the highest number in the last five years.

It further stated that disinformation proliferated online while the government tried to stifle the online space. Internet banking transactions witnessed a steep rise of 51.7 per cent in the fiscal year 2022, reflecting the growing adoption of digital financial services in Pakistan.

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According to the report, internet banking users increased by almost 60 per cent to 3.1 million in 2022.

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The White House said that significant progress" was made in Yemen peace efforts on Sunday shortly after US national security adviser Jake Sullivan met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a visit to the kingdom, Reuters said in a report.

The trip was aimed at strengthening ties with Riyadh and reestablishing the US as the key player in the region as China aims to dethrone Washington by engaging with regional rivals and urging them to come to the table for peace talks, as it did earlier with Saudi Arabia and Iran.

He reviewed significant progress in talks to further consolidate the now 15-month long truce in Yemen and welcomed ongoing UN-led efforts to bring the war to a close, as well as covering a range of other issues, the White House statement said.

In 2015, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia intervened in Yemen after the Houthis, who are aligned with Iran, took over the government in the capital city of Sanaa. The countries that are part of the Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen are Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Senegal, and Sudan. Qatar, Sudan and Morocco have exited the coalition.

In April, a Saudi delegation engaged in peace talks in Sanaa with the Houthis to seek a permanent ceasefire agreement that would end military involvement in the conflict.

The Houthiss top negotiator reported progress in the talks, and both sides have agreed to hold further discussions in the future.

Yemens conflict, which has killed tens of thousands of people and left millions hungry, has widely been seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran, Reuters said in its report.

Sullivan also held talks with UAE national security adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan and India national security adviser Ajit Doval where they discussed how to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world.

It should be noted that UAE, India, Israel and the US are also part of the I2U2 group.

Israel, however, was not part of Sullivans agenda over the weekend, but a senior Israeli security official expressed hope for a significant development in the normalisation of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia because of the visit.

The United States has provided military support to Saudi Arabia for decades and considers the country a key ally in the region for its role in maintaining security and stability.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is the worlds largest oil exporter and has been a key supplier of oil to the United States for many years. The two countries also have significant economic ties.

This relationship was impacted due to issues such as human rights, the war in Yemen and the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

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Recent oil production cuts by Saudi-led OPEC+ have also hurt bilateral relations.

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The Pulitzer Prize for fiction was awarded Monday to two class-conscious novels: Demon Copperhead, Barbara Kingsolvers modern recasting of the Dickens classic David Copperfield, and Hernan Diazs Trust, an innovative narrative of wealth and deceit set in 1920s New York.

Its the first time the Pulitzers have awarded two fiction books in the categorys 105-year history. Officials have declined to name a fiction winner several times, mostly recently in 2012.

Trust won the Kirkus Prize for fiction, was on the long list for the Booker Prize and was named by The New York Times and The Washington Post as one of the years best books. Kingsolvers novel, the story of a young boys struggles and persistence as he grows up in southern Appalachia, was chosen by Oprah Winfrey last fall for her book club and named by The Washington Post as a top release of 2022.

The 68-year-old Kingsolver has long woven social issues into her novels, which also include The Bean Trees and the Winfrey choice The Poisonwood Bible, and helped establish the PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction.

Speaking by phone Monday, the author said she regards the Pulitzer as an affirmation not just of her novel, but of a misunderstood and overlooked part of the country. Kingsolver is a longtime resident of Appalachia who currently lives on a farm in southwestern Virginia, and set Demon Copperhead close by.

I wrote this book for my people because we are so invisible to the rest of the world and so persistently misrepresented, Kingsolver said. I couldnt be happier (about the Pulitzer) for this reason.

Diaz, also interviewed by phone, sees his book and Kingsolvers novel approaching a similar subject, class, from different perspectives. Demon Copperhead dramatizes life on the lower end of the extreme divide between rich and poor. Trust, which begins with a novel-within-the novel about a financial tycoon and his daughter, explores how such a world is created.

I wanted to talk about the process itself of the accumulation of wealth, said Diaz, 49, whose debut novel In the Distance was a Pulitzer finalist. I wanted to deal with class and money, and how money is really made.

Several works with racial themes were honored Monday. Beverly Gages G-Man, her widely acclaimed book on longtime FBI leader J. Edgar Hoover, was given the Pulitzer for biography after previously receiving the Bancroft Prize, the Los Angeles Times Book Prize and the Barbara and David Zalaznick Book Prize from the New-York Historical Society.

It was the first major Hoover biography in decades and was cited by Pulitzer judges for its deeply researched and nuanced look at Hoovers monumental achievements and crippling flaws, including his persecution of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

His Name Is George Floyd: One Mans Life and the Struggle for Racial Justice, by Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa, won for general nonfiction, and Jefferson Cowies Freedoms Dominion: A Saga of White Resistance to Federal Power was honored for history. The Pulitzer for music was given to Rhiannon Giddens and Michael Abels for the opera Omar, about an Islamic scholar captured and sold into slavery.

Sanaz Toossis play English won for drama. The Pulitzer board hailed English as a quietly powerful play about four Iranian adults preparing for an English language exam in a storefront school near Tehran, where family separations and travel restrictions drive them to learn a new language that may alter their identities and also represent a new life.

Finalists included On Sugarland, by Aleshea Harris, an ambitious drama inspired by Sophocles of a community shaped by the trauma of a nameless war and The Far Country, by Lloyd Suh, an account of emigrants who traveled from China to San Francisco and suffered in the shadows of a strange new world.

The one-act play English premiered off-Broadway at Atlantic Theater Company. Toossi is an Iranian American playwright from Orange County, California, who graduated with a masters from New York University. Her other works include Wish You Were Here.

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The Pulitzer for memoir or autobiography was given to Hua Hsus Stay True, which judges praised as an elegant and poignant coming of age account that considers intense, youthful friendships but also random violence. One of the countrys most highly regarded poets, Carl Phillips, won in poetry for Then the War: And Selected Poems, 2007-2020.

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A day before Russia celebrates Victory Day to commemorate its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, its military launched a large-scale wave of strikes on Kyiv and across Ukraine, injuring five and attacking its infrastructure.

Russia is gearing up to celebrate Victory Day with a military parade through Red Square and with news that its offensive in Ukraine is yielding results.

The attacks, in the forms of missile and drone strikes, set ablaze a foodstuff warehouse in Odessa. Other Ukrainian cities have reported blasts.

Russian President Vladimir Putins timing of the strikes on Ukraine reflects his mission objective in Ukraine - to denazify Russias neighbour, as Soviet troops did during World War II. Putin said during the launch of his so-called military operation in Ukraine to free the country from the grip of a new incarnation of Nazism.

Scorched earth tactics in Bakhmut continued as Russias Wagner military group did a u-turn and dug its heels in the city citing that new sets of weapons were coming from Moscow. Russia hopes it will be able to take it by Tuesday, a day before it celebrates Victory Day.

Sounds of explosions were heard from the southern region of Kherson and in the Zaporizhzhia region in southeast, Reuters reported citing Ukrainian media outlets.

Videos of a large structure in Odessa fully engulfed in flames made rounds on Telegram. The building is said to be the foodstuff warehouse which the Russian military targeted.

The scale of the fresh attacks on Kyiv and other adjoining areas remain unclear as authorities were unable to clarify how many drones were deployed.

Air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine and fears regarding a safety of Europes largest nuclear power plant grew Sunday after Russia-backed governor of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia province, Yegeny Balitsky, raised fears that fighting in the area would intensify, the Associated Press reported.

The report said that Balitsky ordered evacuation of 18 Russian-occupied communities, including Enerhodar, where most of the workers employed in Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant live.

Following Balitskys orders at least 1,500 people were evacuated from two unspecified cities in the region as of Sunday. These developments were later confirmed by the Ukrainian authorities.

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Following Moscows invasion of Ukraine last year, troops from Moscow have seized the plant. However, despite the occupation, Ukrainian employees have continued to operate it, sometimes under severe pressure, the Associated Press said.

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The US believes that Russia and Ukraine can be brought to the negotiating table following the latters spring offensive and the Western world which was so long sceptical of China feels that Beijing can help bring Russia to the table, the Wall Street Journal said in a report.

The newspaper said that Washington is shifting its stance and aligning closer with European allies who want the conflict to end or to at least reduce from its current degree. The US has been sceptical of China and US secretary of state Antony Blinken publicly expressed cautious optimism regarding Chinas role in defusing the conflict.

The Wall Street Journal said that the belief is based on the fact that neither Ukraine nor Russia have the ability to continue fighting indefinitely and whether Chinas intentions related to peace in Ukraine are genuine or not should be tested. However, the US still remains sceptical that Russia may not be willing to negotiate a cease-fire under Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The report also pointed out that French President Emmanuel Macron remains keen on pushing Kyiv to initiate talks with Ukraine after the spring offensive.

However, it should be noted that France, the UK, the US, Germany and other allies of Ukraine have said they will continue to support Ukraine, in every manner, including sending more military support if required.

The plan is to strengthen Ukraines bargaining position in the negotiating table if truce talks happen.

The report citing European officials pointed out that the key officials on the US National Security Council favour the negotiations but the US State Department and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) want to see how the offensive turns out before turning to diplomacy, the Wall Street Journal said.

The report citing European officials who are familiar with the discussions their respective leaders have had with the US President Joe Biden said that Biden could attempt to facilitate talks between Kyiv and the Kremlin once the Ukrainian offensive achieves its objectives.

The spring counteroffensive aims to regain important territory in the south and the report said that the results will be interpreted as a success even if Russia retains large areas its forces have occupied.

There are also concerns on both sides of the Atlantic that the scale of support provided by the allies to Ukraine for the coming push will be hard to match in the future if the war ends up being a stalemate. The Western industrial capacity is failing to meet its own demands as it supports Ukraine, the report said citing industry leaders, the Wall Street Journal said.

The report pointed out that the attrition rates of troops and materiel in Ukraine is high and has caused concern among European officials.

Biden is likely to nudge Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky to entertain ceasefire talks in the coming months.

However, not all allies agree on these plans. Poland and the Baltic nations and other smaller nations and the UK feel that Ukraine needs more time even if the spring counteroffensive does not achieve its desired objectives.

The US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told the US Congress that Putin believes time is working in his favour despite scaling back his objectives and focusing on consolidating control in the eastern, southern and southeastern belt of Ukraine and remains affixed on his demand that Ukraine should never join NATO, the Wall Street Journal said.

Meanwhile, European officials believe that a ceasefire agreement would involve China as a guarantor country. China has called for peace talks but it does not view Putin as the aggressor. French President Macron during his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping urged China to play a pivotal role in the possible peace talks and Zelensky also said that any peace talks must include Biden and Xi Jinping.

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Europe is confident that China wants to be involved in the ceasefire talks and the US secretary of state Antony Blinken earlier this week also welcomed any initiative that brings durable peace but until now the US and its European allies felt China was not a reliable party given its unwavering support to Russia and Putin, the Wall Street Journal said.

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Updates to the Fort Abraham Lincoln Foundation's location at the Heritage River Landing area are in the works following the Bismarck City Commission's recent unanimous approval to move forward.

The plan approved by commissioners late last month will seek to improve public shoreline access and access to the Lewis and Clark Riverboat that offers cruises on the Missouri River. It had 17,301 passengers in 2022.

The land, which the foundation leases from the city, lies along the river and deals with fluctuating water levels every season, according to Foundation Executive Director Aaron Barth. The foundation is required to obtain written consent from the city to make any major alterations, per the nonprofit's lease with the city.

The foundation has occasionally needed to maintain access to the riverboat with a temporary gangway and boardwalk systems when river levels overwhelm the asphalt approach.

The proposed plan would include the dredging of a water inlet, development of a public kayak launch, construction of a removable pedestrian bridge/gangway system to improve riverboat access, remodeling of the existing mooring system for the riverboat and a landscaping update.

This is just another incremental step in advancing what we informally call the Bismarck River District, Barth said, referring to an area stretching from Pioneer Park to Sertoma Park.

A group consisting of members from the foundation, AGL architects and the city of Bismarck last year devised a master plan to develop the area after engaging with over 75 stakeholder groups through input meetings. The planning effort was funded with the help of $300,000 in city and state grants. Ideas include a festival grounds, an amphitheater and a hotel. Costs of those possible projects are estimated in the tens of millions of dollars.

Heritage River Landing houses the foundation -- which also is known as the Missouri Valley Heritage Alliance -- a ticket office and gift shop for the riverboat, and the Huckleberry House restaurant. Barth in his proposal writes that the update plan for the building area is a holistically designed revamp of this area that goes above and beyond accommodating Lewis & Clark.

Project costs are to be determined, as permitting with the help of engineers and consultants could take as long as two years and the project could look different after permits are granted. Permits and review are required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the North Dakota Department of Water Resources, the city of Bismarck and other agencies.

A final request to begin construction will come before the City Commission once permitting by other agencies is finished.
If Pakistan wants peace, Islamabad has to talk to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Afghanistans foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has said.

He also said that his country wants trade with all neighbouring nations.

The Afghan Taliban have facilitated talks between Pakistan and the TTP and Kabul can do so again, said Muttaqi, speaking at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad.

Pakistan and the TTP should resolve their differences, he said.

We do not want any bloodshed and unrest on the land of Pakistan, he maintained.

There is a history between Pakistan and the TTP that goes back to before the Taliban regime, said Muttaqi.

He also said that the presence of terrorist elements in Afghanistan is 20-year-old propaganda. There is no existence of any terrorist group in Afghanistan, he claimed.

He also affirmed that Afghanistan will never allow its territory to be used for terrorism against any other country.

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Muttaqi is currently on a four-day visit to Pakistan. He also participated in a China-Pakistan-Afghanistan tripartite meeting on Sunday where the countries decided that no one will allow their land or airspace to be used against each other.

Read all the Latest News here
Police are investigating 33-year-old mass shooter Mauricio Garcias possible links to white supremacist ideology, the Wall Street Journal said citing those familiar with the development.

Garcia went on a killing spree at a Dallas mall on Saturday and killed eight people and injured seven others after he opened fire at people present at Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas. Garcia used an AR-15-style rifle in the attack on the suburban Dallas mall and police recovered multiple firearms at the scene.

The Wall Street Journal said that officials are probing Garcias social-media accounts where he has shown a liking towards white supremacy. After the officers gunned him down, they found a patch with a white supremacist abbreviation on Garcias body.

Garcia was staying at a hotel before he carried out the shooting and wore body armour when he carried out the attack. The attack occurred at around 3.30pm Saturday afternoon as a barrage of gunfire forced waves of shoppers in the outdoor mall to scatter and flee in order to save their lives.

People hid in stock rooms and storage areas in order to save themselves from getting shot. An eyewitness told the Wall Street Journal that she and her husband were inside the Columbia Factory Store when the shots were fired and how store employees ushered her and other customers into the storeroom until help arrived.

She also told the newspaper that when she got out she saw bodies draped in blankets and a little leg with a little shoe was poking out of one of those blankets.

An Allen Police Department officer gunned down Garcia. The police found seven people dead at the scene, including the gunman and nine wounded. The wounded were immediately escorted to the hospital. Two victims died later, taking the total death toll to nine.

Three people remain in critical condition. The mass shooting Allen was ranked as one of the deadliest to date in 2023 by the Gun Violence Archive.

In the past years, mass shootings at a Walmart in El Paso and a supermarket in Buffalo, New York, were perpetrated by individuals with white supremacist ideologies.

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President Biden called the recent violence both shocking and all too familiar, and urged Congress to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, requiring universal background checks, mandating safe storage, and ending immunity for gun manufacturers. He also vowed to sign the bill immediately.

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The Associated Press was awarded a Pulitzer Prize for breaking news photography on Monday in recognition of 15 searing images that rendered in real-time the devastating human toll of the war in Ukraine.

It was one of two prizes won by AP  the other was for public service journalism about the siege of Mariupol, Ukraine.

The winning package of breaking news photography included an image of emergency workers carrying a pregnant woman  who later died  through the shattered grounds of a maternity hospital in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol in the chaotic aftermath of a Russian attack.

Another showed Russias brutal monthlong occupation of Bucha in a chilling still-life  a dog standing next to the body of an elderly woman who has been killed.

And another captured an elderly woman kneeling in agony next to the coffin of her son in the cemetery of Mykulychi, on the outskirts of Kyiv.

While AP photographers made countless images of horrifying, haunting and heartbreaking scenes of war, they also stood witness to courageous acts by soldiers and ordinary people.

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Below is a photo gallery that showcases the Pulitzer-winning work of AP photographers Evgeniy Maloletka, Emilio Morenatti, Vadim Ghirda, Rodrigo Abd, Felipe Dana, Nariman El-Mofty, Bernat Armangue.

Read all the Latest News here
US President Joe Biden may use the powers of a clause in the 14th Amendment in a bid to stop the US from defaulting on its debt as soon as next month, the Hill said in a report.

Section 4 of the US Constitutions 14th Amendment says: The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorised by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned.

But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for the loss or emancipation of any slave; but all such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.

The Hill in its report pointed out that the 14th Amendment primarily granted citizenship and equal protection under the law to all people born or naturalised in the United States, including formerly enslaved individuals but the Biden administration is mulling on invoking the public debt part of the amendment to ward of the threat of US default.

However, the US President on Friday told MSNBC that he has not gotten there yet when asked about the possibility of invoking the amendment. However, the US treasury secretary Janet Yellen on Sunday said that if Biden decides to invoke the 14th Amendment it would lead to a constitutional crisis.

Yellen said that the 14th Amendment addresses the issue of national debt obscurely as the President of the United States has the authority to continue borrowing money to pay the countrys debts, even if the debt ceiling has been reached, because it is necessary to preserve the validity of the public debt.

She was referring to the interpretation based on the idea that the President has a constitutional obligation to protect the creditworthiness of the United States.

This has not been tested in court and is still debated among legal scholars who view it as a controversial and potentially risky move.

There is no way to protect our financial system in our economy, other than Congress doing its job and raising the debt ceiling and enabling us to pay our bills and we should not get to the point where we need to consider whether the President can go on issuing debt. This would be a constitutional crisis, Yellen was quoted as saying by news agency ABC.

She further added that she does not want to consider emergency options and urged Congress to resolve the issue warning that if it is not done then the US will face an economic and financial catastrophe that will be of our own making.

There is no action that President Biden and the US Treasury can take to prevent that catastrophe, Yellen further added but the Hill said the White House aides have looked at the possibility to invoke the sub-clause of Amendment 14.

The US has never defaulted on its debt in its history and US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and US President Joe Biden are meeting on Tuesday to discuss the issue of raising the debt ceiling. The White House told the Republican speaker that it wants a clean debt limit increase.

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Republicans also feel that invoking Amendment 14 wont be a good move saying that decisions related to spending and money have to come through Congress.

Read all the Latest News here
The European Union has proposed sanctions on Chinese companies accused of selling equipment that could be used in weapons to support Russias war machine, the Financial Times reported on Sunday.

Seven Chinese businesses have been listed in a new package of sanctions that will be discussed by EU member states this week, the report said, citing a copy of the sanctions list seen by the FT.

According to the FT, the sanctions list includes two mainland Chinese companies, 3HC Semiconductors and King-Pai Technology, along with five from Hong Kong including Sinno Electronics, Sigma Technology, Asia Pacific Links, Tordan Industry and Alpha Trading Investments.

The European Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Some companies like King-Pai Technology have already been placed under sanctions by the United States, which said it was a China-based supplier for multiple entities in Russias military-industrial complex.

Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine 14 months ago, which Russian President Vladimir Putin termed a special military operation, the EU has adopted 10 sanctions packages against Russian individuals and companies, inflicting economic hardship and making financing the war more difficult.

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Read all the Latest News here
The latest North Dakota coronavirus news: emergency's end, state and federal aid, food supply chain and more.

It's a wrap

The coronavirus pandemic national emergency ended about a month ago, and the public health emergency ends this Thursday.

The World Health Organization last Friday said that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the pandemic. The agency cautioned that the pandemic isn't over, but the winding down of its seriousness is evident in the moves at the national level and also in North Dakota's COVID-19 numbers.

State health officials on Friday reported just 182 new cases of COVID-19 over the previous seven days, including 41 in Burleigh-Morton counties -- a 12-month low. There were only 16 new COVID-19 hospital admissions over the week, and coronavirus patients took up less than 2% of occupied inpatient beds and no intensive care unit beds in the state.

All but three of North Dakota's 53 counties are considered at low risk for coronavirus transmission, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Gov. Doug Burgum more than a year ago announced that North Dakota's coronavirus approach was shifting from pandemic to endemic -- essentially meaning that COVID-19 is expected to be a regular part of life. The governor in March 2022 cited falling numbers of cases, hospitalizations and deaths, as well as new resources to fight the virus.

State health officials at that time moved from daily COVID-19 data reporting to the weekly system, which is geared more toward tracking the trend of cases, not actual case numbers, since COVID-19 home tests are not required to be reported to the state. It's also meant to show severity of disease. Virus cases and hospitalizations in the state have been relatively stable since, with no serious spikes.

The Bismarck Tribune is ending its regular weekly stories on the state's COVID-19 numbers. Those numbers can be found on the Health and Human Services dashboard at https://www.hhs.nd.gov/health/coronavirus/cases. The numbers are updated every Friday. The Tribune also is ending its periodic "Coronavirus Need to Know" columns. Today's column is the 353rd since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

There have been 291,093 confirmed COVID-19 cases in North Dakota during the pandemic, and 2,511 people with COVID-19 have died.

Rent aid

North Dakota's federally funded program to help lower-income households pay for rent and utilities during the pandemic has doled out more than $112 million in direct assistance but is now winding down.

ND Rent Help has helped tens of thousands of North Dakotans in the past couple of years, according to state Human Services Executive Director Jessica Thomasson.

State Housing Stability Director Nikki Aden said, We have distributed these pandemic relief dollars to people living in communities across the state in small sums that have made a big difference in peoples lives.

As North Dakota continues to move beyond the pandemic, Health and Human Services is ramping down general rent assistance and transitioning to a more targeted housing stability program that prioritizes households experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness.

HHS is now accepting new or pending applications on the portal at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp/rent-help only from North Dakota households experiencing or facing imminent homelessness.

The agency still has about $40 million in direct assistance available, though much of that has already been obligated to more than 5,000 current program participants.

Federal aid

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved another $13.2 million in assistance for the COVID-19 response in North Dakota.

HHS received $2.5 million for pandemic emergency measures. The state Department of Emergency Services got $10.7 million for COVID-19 related costs.

FEMA has now provided North Dakota with more than $234 million in public assistance funding for the state's pandemic response. The money is in addition to other federal COVID-19 aid. More information is at bit.ly/3mchNYF.

Food supply chain

North Dakota Farmers Union is part of a Regional Food Business Center established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to expand small and midsize agricultural food and supply chains in North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.

The MiNKota RFBC center will provide coordination, technical assistance and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers and food businesses access new markets while navigating federal, state and local resources. Primary focuses will be developing infrastructure for livestock processing, fruit and vegetable processing, warehouse space and storage options.

In response to the pandemic that exposed weaknesses within our food delivery and supply chain systems, this is an important step toward building local, resilient systems for consumers and rural America, NDFU President Mark Watne said. Increasing local and regional demand for products, expanding processing capacity and improving delivery channels will add value to the products grown and raised by family farmers and ranchers.

NDFU will help identify needs and host a two-day summit every other year. Minnesota Farmers Union and South Dakota Farmers Union are partners in the project.

USDA is establishing 12 such regional centers around the country as part of a $400 million initiative announced last September.

Regional Food Business Centers will serve as USDAs cornerstone in the development of the local and regional supply chains, building on lessons learned during the pandemic, providing technical assistance, and creating new market opportunities in areas where the need is greatest," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said at the time.

More information is at bit.ly/42o3Lmi.

Testing and vaccines

A comprehensive list of free public COVID-19 testing offered in North Dakota can be found at bit.ly/3CJUniI. That site also lists where free at-home test kits are being offered.

Information on COVID-19 vaccines is at bit.ly/3GFoEjM.

County-level COVID-19 risks determined by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can be found at https://bit.ly/3Clifrq. The CDC recommends that people in high-risk areas wear a mask indoors in public, and that people in medium-risk areas who have conditions that make them prone to severe illness wear a mask.

General information is at https://www.health.nd.gov/diseases-conditions/coronavirus and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
LONDON, May 6 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng attended the coronation ceremony of King Charles III of the United Kingdom (UK) and related activities upon invitation from May 5 to May 6. Han, who is also Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative, conveyed to King Charles III President Xi's sincere congratulations and best wishes to the King and Queen Camilla, the British royal family and the British people, and thanked the British side for its thoughtful arrangements for his visit to the country. Charles III asked Han to convey his heartfelt thanks and cordial greetings to President Xi, thanked the president and his wife Professor Peng Liyuan for sending congratulatory messages to him and the Queen, and welcomed Han's attendance to the coronation ceremony as President Xi's special representative. Noting that the Britain-China relationship is very important, Charles III voiced hope that the two countries will carry out further cooperation in a wide range of fields such as green and low carbon, sustainable development and climate change, and expected China to continue to play a leading role in green development and other fields. During his visit, Han also had brief meetings with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Prince of Wales William, and held talks with Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden. Han said that in the era of globalization, the economies of different countries are deeply connected. "China is continuing to promote high-quality development and will further promote high-level opening up, and is willing to strengthen cooperation with the British side for mutual benefit and common development." Hailing that China-Britain cooperation has a good foundation and great potential, Han said that in recent years, bilateral trade and investment have continued to grow. The UK has become an important destination for Chinese companies to invest in Europe. "It is hoped that the British government will create a fair, just and non-discriminatory investment environment for Chinese companies," said the vice president. Britain is also an important destination for Chinese students and tourists, Han said, calling on the British side to provide a good and safe study and living environment for Chinese students as well as safety and convenience for Chinese tourists. Both China and Britain are supporters, promoters and beneficiaries of economic globalization, multilateralism and free trade, Han said, noting that China is willing to conduct exchanges with the British side on a wide range of issues on the premise of mutual respect and equal treatment, enhance mutual understanding, narrow differences, and jointly promote the healthy and stable development of bilateral relations for the benefit of the two countries and the world. The British side said that both Britain and China are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and play important roles in international affairs. The British side attaches great importance to developing relations with China, regards Han's visit as an important opportunity to promote bilateral relations, and looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges with China and further expanding economic cooperation, they said. They stressed that the British side is also ready to strengthen cooperation with China on a wider range of issues such as health, climate change and global stability, make joint efforts to build a stable and constructive relationship, and let Chinese companies, students and tourists feel welcome and safe. On May 4, Han attended a welcome dinner hosted by Chinese and British business communities in London. In his speech, Han said the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China has drawn a grand blueprint for building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization. "China's development enjoys a strong leadership core, and its domestic and foreign policies are highly consistent and stable," Han said, noting that no matter how the world landscape changes, China will bring more opportunities through its own development and add more certainty and positive energy to the world. He commended the important and positive role the British business community plays in promoting exchanges and cooperation with China, expressing hope that it will continue to contribute wisdom and strength to advancing bilateral relations.
Gov. Doug Burgum has signed a bill that puts decades-old Native American adoption rules into state law.

North Dakota was among a handful of states that considered legislation this year to include provisions of the U.S. Indian Child Welfare Act into state law, according to The Associated Press. The federal law gives preference to Native American families in foster care and adoption proceedings of Native children.

Congress passed the act in 1978 in response to the alarming rate at which Native American and Alaska Native children were taken from their homes by public and private agencies, according to AP. From 1887-1969, Native children were placed in boarding schools that used abusive practices to assimilate them into white society. Many were adopted by non-Native families, often depriving them of their tribal and cultural heritage.

Some states are concerned that Supreme Court challenges have put the federal law in jeopardy.

The state of Texas and several non-Native adoptive parents allege in a lawsuit against Interior Secretary Deb Haaland that ICWA constitutes race-based discrimination. Attorneys for the federal government maintained that the law protects the interests of Native American children and tribal communities. The high court is expected to rule this year.

North Dakota lawmakers during the legislative session that recently ended voted nearly unanimously to pass House Bill 1536. Rep. Jayme Davis, a Rolette Democrat and an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, told The Forum that she sponsored the bill to ensure Native American children grow up with strong family and cultural ties intact.

About 9% of North Dakota children are Indigenous, but they account for 44% of the children in foster care, according to the National Indian Child Welfare Association.

Burgum signed the bill Monday. A statement from his office said the legislation "codifies the federal Indian Child Welfare Act into state law, ensuring that these important protections for Native American children and families will remain in place in North Dakota regardless of what happens with the ICWA in the federal court system."

At least 10 other states have similar laws in place, according to AP. A similar bill in South Dakota was rejected earlier this year.
UPDATE

May 8, 2023 10:35 AM CDT

It's been nearly a year since Ray Liotta's death at age 67, and now there are some answers as to what happened. As TMZ puts it, the Goodfellas actor's "heart and lungs gave out," according to officials in the Dominican Republic, where Liotta had been filming a movie when he died last May. Documents seen by the outlet show Liotta's passing was of natural causes and "nonviolent," the result of fluid in his lungs (technically called a pulmonary edema), respiratory insufficiency, and heart failure. The document also notes Liotta suffered from a hardening of the arteries, known as atherosclerosis, which can have other health repercussions. Per Page Six, Liotta received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in February. "I couldn't be more proud of him," daughter Karsen Liotta, 24, said at the time.

May 26, 2022 11:38 AM CDT

Actor Ray Liotta, whose breakout role came as mobster Henry Hill in Goodfellas, has died at age 67, reports Deadline. Both that outlet and TMZ say Liotta died in his sleep in the Dominican Republic, where he was filming a movie. No suspicious circumstances were believed to be at play. Liotta starred alongside Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci in Goodfellas, a based-on-true-life Mafia classic from Martin Scorcese. Liotta, however, has a long resume, and just a small sampling of movies include Hannibal, Narc, Blow, Cop Land, and Field of Dreams. Liotta is survived by a daughter, Karsen, and his fiancee, Jacy Nittolo.

"Utterly shattered to hear this terrible news about my Ray," tweeted Lorraine Bracco, who played Karen Hill in Goodfellas. "I can be anywhere in the world & people will come up & tell me their favorite movie is Goodfellas. Then they always ask what was the best part of making that movie. My response has always been the same ... Ray Liotta." The AP notes that Liotta was adopted out of an orphanage at age 6 months in Newark, New Jersey. He grew up thinking he was Italian but learned later in life while searching for his birth parents that he was actually Scottish. (Read more Ray Liotta stories.)
Americans appear as worried about their money in banks now as they were during the 2008 financial crisis. Some 48% of US adults are "very" or "moderately" concerned about money held in bank accounts, according to a Gallup poll that was conducted after two banks failed, but before the failure of a third. That's on par with September 2008, following the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy, when 45% of US adults said they were "very" or "moderately" worried about the safety of their bank-held money. By December 2008, after government bailouts sought to rescue banks, the figure dropped to 41%.

Polled from April 3-25, 19% of respondents said they were "very worried," 29% said they were "moderately worried," 30% said they were "not too worried," and 20% said they weren't worried. However, there were major differences across political affiliations and income and education levels. "Consistent with other polling that shows economic concerns deepen if your party is not in the White House," 55% of Republicans and 51% of independents said they were very or moderately worried about their money, compared to 36% of Democrats, per Axios.

The rate was 36% among college-educated Americans but 54% among those without a college degree. According to Gallup, less-educated Americans may not know about FDIC insurance, which automatically protects depositors at Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-insured banks from loss up to at least $250,000. Amid the recent bank failures, "no depositor has lost moneyincluding those with funds over the quarter-million dollar limit for FDIC insurance," as Axios points out.

"The vast majority of banks are fine and this is something our system can handle," former FDIC chair Sheila Bair told CNN this week. "The US banking system is sound and resilient," added Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Still, significant levels of worry among lower-income Americans (around 50% for those with incomes below $100,000, compared to 40% for those with higher incomes) may reflect "less trust in a system they feel often leaves them on the outs," per Axios. They may see bank failures as "bad for them" overall, Brookings senior fellow Aaron Klein tells the outlet, pointing to the rise of certain bank fees following the 2008 financial crisis. (Read more banks stories.)
UPDATE

May 8, 2023 6:14 AM CDT

The death toll has risen to eight after an SUV slammed into a crowd of people waiting for a bus Sunday outside a migrant shelter in the border city of Brownsville, Texas, the AP reports. At least 10 others were injured, police said, as they prepared to arrest the hospitalized driver. Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released," a police investigator says. "Then well fingerprint him and (take a) mug shot, and then we can find his true identity. He adds that there are three possible explanations and it's not yet clear which one is accurate: "It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional."

May 7, 2023 5:15 PM CDT

Seven people were killed and as many as six injured Sunday when they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a city bus stop outside a migrant shelter in the border city of Brownsville, Texas, police said. Shelter director Victor Maldonado of the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center said he reviewed the shelter's surveillance video. "What we see in the video is that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about 100 feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop," he said. The city bus stop is across the street from the shelter and is not marked. There was no bench, and people waiting were sitting along the curb, Maldonado said. He said most of the victims were Venezuelan men, the AP reports.

He said the SUV flipped after running up on the curb and continued moving for about 200 feet. Some people walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet away also were hit, Maldonado said. The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in Brownsville and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody. Brownsville has long been an epicenter for migration across the US-Mexico border, and it has become a key location for next week's ending of the pandemic-era border restrictions known as Title 42. Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval said authorities are investigating whether the 8:30am crash was intentional or an accident. They are also testing the driver, who was held at the scene by witnesses, for intoxication.

Maldonado said the center had not received any threats before the crash but did afterward. "I've had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us," Maldonado said. The shelter can hold 250, though many who arrive leave the same day. A recent uptick in border crossings prompted the city to declare an emergency as local, state, and federal resources coordinated the enforcement and humanitarian response. "In the last two months, weve been getting 250 to 380 a day," Maldonado said.

(Read more Brownsville-Harlingen stories.)
Former President Trump won't be testifying in the civil trial over E. Jean Carroll's allegations of rape and defamation against him. A 5pm Sunday deadline for his team to file a request to testify came and went with nothing being filed, the Hill reports. That means his defense team will call no witnesses in the case, and closing arguments are expected to happen Monday, with the case likely going to the jury Tuesday. Trump never showed up in person for any portion of the proceedings, the AP reports, and his team had previously said he would not testify, though Trump did imply during a visit to Ireland last week that he would "probably attend."

His attorney rested the defense case Thursday immediately after Carroll's team rested its case, and did not request any additional time for Trump to testify. It was at that time the judge in the case said the window for Trump to request additional time would remain open until Sunday, noting Trump's recent comments that he might attend the trial after all, CNN reports. Carroll claims Trump raped her in a New York City department store dressing room in 1996 and defamed her years later when he accused her of falsifying the accusation. Trump denies all the claims. (Read more Donald Trump stories.)
The Bolivian general who captured Cuban revolutionary Ernesto "Che" Guevara in 1967, leading the military operation that took down Guevara's communist insurrection, has died at age 84. The BBC reports that Gary Prado Salmon "became a national hero" after Guevara's capture; the guerrilla fighter was executed the very next day. Mario Teran, the Bolivian officer who carried out the execution, fatally shooting Guevara, died last year.

Of Salmon, his son wrote on social media that he was "accompanied by his wife and children" when he died Saturday, Yahoo News reports. "He left us a legacy of love, honesty and mettle. He was an amazing person." He wrote a book aptly titled How I Captured Che, but his son has previously said, "for him capturing Che was not the most important thing he did in his liferather, it was to contribute to making the armed forces a democratic institution that would respect the constitution and laws." He was paralyzed after being accidentally shot in the spine in 1981, and retired from the military seven years later. (Read more Che Guevara stories.)
A surprise guilty plea by an Alabama inmate means he won't face murder charges regarding the woman who helped his notorious escape last year. Casey White pleaded guilty to first-degree escape last week, and he will likely receive a life term at his sentencing in June, per the New York Times. Youre probably just as surprised by todays turn of events as we are, his lawyer, Robert Tuten, said after the hearing. White, 39, escaped last spring with the help of corrections officer Vicky White, 56, with whom he had struck up a romantic relationship, per CNN.

They were on the run about two weeks before police caught up with them, at which point Vicky White died of what authorities believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Because her death occurred during Casey White's escape, he faced felony murder charges, but last week's plea negates that. Casey White already was serving a lengthy term for multiple violent offenses, and he still faces trial for a murder that occurred before his escape. While in court to make his plea, he apologized to Vicky White's mother and said the pair had been in love, per News19. "It wasn't supposed to go that way," he told her. (Read more Casey White stories.)
LaJoia Broughton, a 41-year-old small-business owner, considers herself a fan of President Biden. He's provided opportunities for Black-owned business while bringing integrity to the White House, she said, and her decision for 2024 isn't in doubt. Destiny Humphreys is less enthusiastic. The 22-year-old senior at South Carolina State University, the state's only public historically Black college or university, or HBCU, said she's disappointed in the president, feeling his accomplishments have so far not lived up to his promises. "Honestly, I feel like right now America is in a state of emergency. We need some real change," said Humphreys, who remains unsure about her vote in next year's election, per the AP.

After a dismal start to his 2020 presidential campaign, Black voters in South Carolina rallied behind Biden, reviving his White House ambitions by driving his Democratic rivals from the race and ultimately putting him on a path to defeating then-President Trump. But at the outset of Biden's reelection bid, the conflicting views among the same voters provide an early warning sign of the challenges he faces as he aims to revive the diverse coalition that proved so crucial to him before. Black voters formed the heart of Biden's base of support, and any dip in support could prove consequential in some of the most fiercely competitive states, such as Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Well aware of the challenge, the Biden campaign says it's confident in its message and is planning to highlight how the president has prioritized issues that are important to Black Americans.

"The progress made in the first two yearswhether it's the historically low Black unemployment rate, unprecedented funding to HBCUs, or [cutting] the black poverty rate in halfis all at stake in 2024," campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz said in a statement. "The campaign will work hard to earn every vote and expand on its winning 2020 coalition." Yet there are some early signs that Biden will have work to do to generate enthusiasm among Black voters for another run. Biden's approval rating among Black adults has fluctuated over his two years in office. As with most demographic groups, the latest AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll finds his 58% current approval rating among Black adults sitting well below where he began. Roughly 9 in 10 Black adults approved of Biden over his first months in office.

About half of Democrats overall say they want Biden to run again in 2024, with 81% saying they'd definitely or probably support him if he were the nominee. The groundswell isn't as stark among Black adults: About 41% say they want him to run, and only 55% say they're likely to support him in the general. Interviews two years into his presidency with more than a dozen Black voters, representing a variety of ages and backgrounds, reveal mixed views, especially between older and younger voters. Many younger ones said they aren't sure Biden has delivered on their most important priorities. "He wouldn't have been president without us," said recent college grad Courtney McClain, 22. Older voters, however, are supporting him. "Everything is so extreme on the other side that, you know, I can't see many options besides Biden at this point," said business owner Laddie Howard, 52.

(Read more President Biden stories.)
A California college instructor accused of falsely claiming Native American ancestry is now admitting she's white and apologizingand it was one of her closest friends who conducted a good amount of the probing that led to her apology. The hubbub stretches back to February 2021, when Elizabeth Hoover, an associate professor at UC Berkeley who studies Native American foods, ended up on what's known as a "pretendian" list, a documentation of individuals falsely claiming to be Native American. Her friend, Adrienne Keene, offered to help Hoover dig up proof of her roots so she could get everyone off her back about itexcept after much research on Keene's part, "the story of her friend's ancestry unraveled," per the Washington Post.

In an open letter last week on the Native Appropriations forum, Keene says when she initially proposed to Hoover that she help her write a statement on her identity "to clear things up," Hoover was dismissive, and Keene simply "pushed the questions away." In February 2022, Keene resurfaced her questions after a Native American organization accused Hoover of fabricating her past, but she says Hoover was still evasive. That's when Keene says she started more aggressively scouring through obituaries, online cemeteries, and genealogical databases for info on Hoover, and in June of last year, Keene sent Hoover a letter (which Keene also shared on Native Appropriations) that presented her findings. In short, she couldn't link Hoover to the Mohawk and Mikmaq tribes she claimed to be part of. Keene asked Hoover to explain herself, as "things were starting to not add up."

In October, Hoover issued a statement that she'd done her own research and similarly found no documentation on her Native American ancestry, and that the new info left her and her family "shocked and confused." A month later, a group of Hoover's ex-students and Indigenous academics put out a letter slamming Hoover for her "absolutely appalling" claims and posted a list of demands, including that Hoover "come out as white" and resign her post. On May 1, Hoover did the first part in an open letter of "accountability," though with no mention of resigning. "I am a white person who has incorrectly identified as Native my whole life, based on incomplete information," she wrote, apologizing for the "hurt, harm, and broken trust to the Native community." In a Tuesday response, Keene defends her research, which she says took an "exhausting toll." More from her here; more from Hoover here. (Read more cultural appropriation stories.)
UPDATE

May 9, 2023 5:48 AM CDT

A Republican Texas state lawmaker resigned Monday ahead of an expected vote to expel him after an investigation found he had inappropriate sexual conduct with a 19-year-old intern, per the AP. The resignation letter of Rep. Bryan Slaton, 45, did not address the allegations. I look forward to spending more time with my young family, and will continue to find ways to serve my community and all citizens across our great state, he wrote. The chairman of the investigating panel, Rep. Andrew Murr, said he still might call for a vote to expel Slaton because he remains an officer of the state until his successor is elected and sworn in.

May 8, 2023 9:02 AM CDT

A Texas legislative committee recommended Saturday that GOP Rep. Bryan Slaton be expelled for inappropriate sexual conduct with a 19-year-old intern. Slaton, from Royse City, could face an expulsion vote by the full House as early as Tuesday. Slaton, 45, has declined to comment on the allegations and didn't immediately respond to a phone message left by the AP on Saturday, but his attorney last month called the claims "outrageous" and "false." The House General Investigating Committee's recommendation was first reported by the Texas Tribune.



The allegations: In the written investigation report, the committee said Slaton gave the 19-year-old intern and another young staffer alcohol at his home, that he had sex with the intern after she was intoxicated, and that he later showed the intern a threatening email but said everything would be fine if the incident was kept quiet. Slaton also asked a fellow lawmaker to keep his behavior secret, the committee said.

Committee reaction: "Slaton's misconduct is grave and serious," the committee members wrote in a report, noting that he furnished alcohol to a minor, violated employment laws, abused his position of power, and engaged in harassment. "It is the committee's unanimous recommendation that ... the only appropriate discipline in this matter is expulsion."

"Slaton's misconduct is grave and serious," the committee members wrote in a report, noting that he furnished alcohol to a minor, violated employment laws, abused his position of power, and engaged in harassment. "It is the committee's unanimous recommendation that ... the only appropriate discipline in this matter is expulsion." Lawmaker's background: Slaton's legislative bio describes him as "a proud East Texan with values and principles that represent the great people of East Texas," values he says were formed by his participation in church and family gatherings. His bio also cites his degrees from a Baptist seminary school and his work serving as a youth minister. Slaton has repeatedly pushed to ban drag shows for kids and has tweeted his support for laws prohibiting gender-affirming health care. "Children don't need to be focused on sex and sexualization," Slaton said in an interview last year.

How the probe started: The misconduct investigation began after two 19-year-old legislative aides and a 21-year-old legislative intern filed complaints in April. The committee hired a former state judge to conduct the investigation, which confirmed the complaints, Committee Chairman Andrew Murr, a Republican, told the 150-member House on Saturday.

The misconduct investigation began after two 19-year-old legislative aides and a 21-year-old legislative intern filed complaints in April. The committee hired a former state judge to conduct the investigation, which confirmed the complaints, Committee Chairman Andrew Murr, a Republican, told the 150-member House on Saturday. What's next: Murr said he expects a resolution calling for Slaton's expulsion on Tuesday. Expelling Slaton would require a two-thirds vote from House members.

Murr said he expects a resolution calling for Slaton's expulsion on Tuesday. Expelling Slaton would require a two-thirds vote from House members. Disturbing discovery: The AP finds that between 2017 and 2021, at least 120 state lawmakers in 41 states have faced public allegations of sexual misconduct or harassment. Among those cases was an Idaho lawmaker who was eventually convicted in 2022 of raping a legislative intern.

More here on the complaints filed against Slaton. (Read more Texas stories.)
The Biden administration is proposing new regulations that would require airlines to compensate passengers and cover their meals and hotels if they are stranded for reasons within the airline's control. As the AP reports, President Biden and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg were unveiling the plan on Monday. It continues a push by the administration to require airlines to improve customer service, and it comes just weeks before the start of the peak summer travel season. The aim would be, for the first time, to require airlines to pay compensation beyond a ticket refund and to cover expenses that consumers incur, including rebooking on another flight, if the airline causes a cancellation or significant delay.

"When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill," Buttigieg said in a statement. Currently, when an airline cancels a flight for any reason, consumers can demand a refund of the unused part of their ticket and certain extras that they might have paid to the airline, such as fees for checking a bag or getting a seat assignment. Airlines often try to persuade consumers to accept a travel voucher instead of a refund. After widespread flight disruptions last summer, the Transportation Department posted an online dashboard that was designed to pressure the airlines to improve customer service.

The site lets consumers check each airline's policy on refunds and compensation when flights are canceled or delayed. Each of the 10 largest US airlines quickly promised to provide cash or vouchers for meals when a cancellation forces passengers to wait at least three hours for another flight. Nine of the 10all but Frontier Airlinesalso promised to pay for hotels for passengers stranded overnight. Questions arose again around reimbursing consumers for out-of-pocket costs after Southwest Airlines canceled nearly 17,000 flights during a December meltdown.

(Read more airline industry stories.)
Weekly newspapers in New Town and Parshall appear to have closed recently.

The New Town News closed last month, according to New Town City Auditor Eileen Zaun. The city attorney informed her of the newspaper closing; she doesn't know the reason why.

She will look to the Stanley-based Mountrail County Promoter to publish New Town legal notices.

"You want to keep things local, and now we've got to go into Stanley instead of New Town to put our news in. It's a loss. It definitely is. A lot of people read the paper here," Zaun said. "It's a terrible loss to our city."

Parshall City Auditor Kelly Woessner said she's had no correspondence since late April with the Mountrail County Record, and has not been able to reach anyone at the paper.

The Parshall City Council will decide whether to temporarily publish its legal notices in the Promoter "until we find out what is going on," she said.

A phone number for the New Town and Parshall newspapers was disconnected. A Tribune email to both newspapers was returned "undeliverable."

Other North Dakota weekly newspapers have shuttered in recent years. The Edgeley Mail closed last year.

The Killdeer-based Dunn County Herald closed in 2019, and the Walhalla Mountaineer shut down in 2020.

The U.S. has lost more than one-fourth of its newspapers since 2005 -- 2,500 papers -- and is on track to lose a third by 2025, according to The State of Local News 2022 report from Northwestern University's Medill School. More than one-fifth of the nation's citizens live in a "news desert," according to the report. Visiting Professor Penelope Abernathy calls it "a real crisis for democracy."

"The loss of local journalism has been accompanied by the malignant spread of misinformation and disinformation, political polarization, eroding trust in media, and a yawning digital and economic divide among citizens," Abernathy wrote. "In communities without a credible source of local news, voter participation declines, corruption in both government and business increases, and local residents end up paying more in taxes and at checkout."
The driver who fatally plowed into a crowd of migrants in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday has been charged with eight counts of manslaughter. Police are still investigating whether it might have been intentional, reports NBC News. The Range Rover driven by 34-year-old George Alvarez ran a red right and crashed into a crowd of Venezuelans who were waiting for a bus outside a migrant center, say police. Eight people were killed and 10 injured, with most of the victims being Venezuelan men, per the AP. On Monday, Alvarez was charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Police say Alvarez has an extensive criminal history, including earlier charges of assault and driving while intoxicated, per CNN. Bystanders pinned him down when he tried to flee the scene, say police. Surveillance video shows the vehicle speeding before hitting a curb, flipping on its side, and plowing into the victims about 8:30am Sunday, said Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda. He added that investigators have not ruled out the possibility that the crash was intentional. Authorities are still waiting for a toxicology report to determine whether Alvarez was drunk. (Read more Brownsville-Harlingen stories.)
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Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the U.S. and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Thursday as a mark of respect for the victims of the weekend shooting at a Dallas-area mall.

Burgum also encourages North Dakotans to lower flags at their homes and businesses. His directive is in accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, opened fire at the mall in Allen, Texas, killing eight people before he was killed by police, according to The Associated Press.
AFP | Riyadh

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia between Sudan's warring generals have yielded "no major progress" so far, a Saudi diplomat told AFP on Monday, dampening hopes for a quick end to the fighting.

Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who heads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), sent representatives to the Red Sea coastal city of Jeddah on Saturday for meetings that Washington and Riyadh described as "pre-negotiation talks".

The Sudanese army has said they will address how a truce "can be correctly implemented to serve the humanitarian side".

Beyond that, Sudanese and Saudi officials have provided scant information about what the talks will cover or how long they will last.

"No major progress is achieved so far," the Saudi diplomat said on Monday.

"A permanent ceasefire isn't on the table. Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle."

The UN's top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, arrived in Jeddah on Sunday intending to meet representatives of both camps, though his role in the process is unclear.

A spokesperson for Griffiths said on Sunday that he had arrived in Jeddah "to engage in humanitarian issues related to Sudan".

A separate UN official said on Monday that Griffiths had "asked to join the negotiations" but that his request had not been approved so far.

Multiple truce deals have been declared, without effect, since fighting erupted on April 15 in the poverty-stricken country with a history of instability.

Fierce combat has killed hundreds of people, wounded thousands and sparked multiple warnings of a "catastrophic" humanitarian crisis.

More than 100,000 people have already fled the country.

Saudi Arabia has assumed a major role in evacuations from Sudan, dispatching naval and commercial vessels to bring thousands of civilians across the Red Sea from the Sudanese coastal city of Port Sudan.

On Sunday, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman directed $100 million to be donated for assistance to Sudan, including medical aid and help for displaced people, the official Saudi Press Agency reported.

Saudi officials will also organise a public donations campaign "to mitigate the effects of the conditions that the Sudanese people are currently going through", the agency said.

In a Sunday meeting, US national security advisor Jake Sullivan thanked the Saudi crown prince, the kingdom's de facto ruler, "for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan", the White House said in a statement.
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Although they are grateful that the man accused of killing James Edward Knapp Jr. of Newtown has been convicted, his loved ones said they are still left with a hole in their hearts.

Patrick Griffin, the New Fairfield man charged in the May 2022, stabbing death of 65-year-old Knapp, is facing up to 20 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of intentional and reckless manslaughter last week at state Superior Court in Danbury.

This guilty verdict is a step toward justice, but it will never bring our father back, the victims son, Ryan Knapp, said after Griffins recent conviction. He wont be there to enjoy his retirement, travel with his wife or see his grandchildren grow up.

James Knapp  a lifelong Newtown resident and former educator, remembered as a kind, caring and compassionate person  was fatally stabbed at Griffins New Fairfield residence.

Griffin was found guilty of two first-degree manslaughter charges last Tuesday, after an eight-day jury trial and is scheduled to be sentenced July 10.

Though his attorney, Alexander Schwartz, said hes disappointed with the guilty verdict and intends to appeal the outcome, Ryan Knapp said he and his family are grateful.

While the video evidence was difficult to watch, we feel any reasonable person would have come to the same conclusion: there was no justification for killing our father, Knapp said, noting that his family was there every day of the trial.

Police said they responded to the Griffins house on Hillview Drive East around 9:30 p.m. May 7, 2022, and found James Knapp in the kitchen with a large stab wound in his stomach. He was transported to Danbury Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Police said Griffin claimed to have no choice but to stab James Knapp, who he said had his foot on his throat.

According to his arrest warrant, Griffin told authorities he got into a fight with Knapp after returning from a bar in Patterson, N.Y., and said Knapp dragged him into the house and stomped on him.

We believe the story presented by the defendant was frankly absurd, Ryan Knapp said, noting that a hospital physician who examined Griffin the night of the incident testified in court that he had no neck injuries that would be consistent with stomping on his neck.

And Knapp also said it doesnt make sense that his father  who he said went to check on Griffin that night  would suddenly snap on him.

That day, our father had been attending a fundraiser for one of his former students, he said. That afternoon, (he) told us that he was going to check on Mr. Griffin, who was drinking alone and gambling on the horse race.

Knapp said Ring video footage presented in court showed his father helping Griffin into his house that night.

The video showed our father helping Mr. Griffin into his house, while Mr. Griffin was falling over from being intoxicated, he said. The last images of our fathers life, as captured on the Ring camera, were of him walking Mr. Griffins dog.

That a fight occurred inside the residence is predicated on Griffins inconsistent accounts, Knapp said, and due to Griffins actions, his father is no longer alive to tell his side of the story.

Mr. Griffin is a sad, desperate case, and we feel pity for him because he has to live with the guilt of killing one of the only people who cared enough to help him when he was struggling, Knapp said.

Knapp said he and his family are grateful for the diligent work that Senior Assistant States Attorney Russell Zentner put into reviewing hours of video footage and building a winning case.

We were confident the state presented compelling evidence that contradicted Mr. Griffins multitude of inconsistent stories, he said. We also want to thank Kristine Kellas from the Office of Victims Services and everyone at the nonprofit Survivors of Homicide for all their support through this difficult and confusing process.

In addition to the manslaughter charges, Griffin is facing a criminal possession of firearm charge stemming from a search warrant of his house after the May 2022 stabbing death.

While police were executing a search warrant, they claimed to have found a firearm in the house, Schwartz told Hearst Connecticut Media last week. The state tried to add the firearm claim to the case, but I was successful in convincing Judge (Robin) Pavia not to allow it in.

Court records show Griffin  who is currently held at the Cheshire Correctional Institution, according to the state Department of Correction  has a disposition hearing on that charge scheduled for the same day as his July 10 sentencing.
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SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Monday called for officials to map out specific steps to hasten security and economic cooperation with Japan following his weekend summit in Seoul with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Kishida during Sundays meeting expressed sympathy toward Koreans forced into industrial slavery during Japans 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula as the leaders vowed to overcome historical grievances and strengthen cooperation in the face of a nuclear North Korea and other challenges.

The summit, which was the second meeting between the leaders in less than two months, drew a mixed reaction in South Korea. Critics, including Yoons liberal opponents who control majority in the National Assembly, said Kishidas comments fell short of a meaningful apology and accused Yoon of letting Japan off the hook over its past aggressions while pushing to repair bilateral ties.

Others saw the summit as a sign that the two key U.S. allies are finally moving forward after years of bickering as they step up their three-way partnership with Washington.

After the summit, Yoon said Seoul, Tokyo and Washington are engaging in talks to implement their earlier agreement on a faster exchange of information on North Korean missile tests. Yoon also said he wouldnt rule out Japans possible participation in future nuclear deterrence consultations between Washington and Seoul to better cope with North Korean nuclear threats.

Yoon, Kishida and President Joe Biden are expected to hold a trilateral meeting later this month on the sidelines of the Group of Seven meetings in Hiroshima to discuss North Korea and geopolitical uncertainties created by Russias invasion of Ukraine and Chinas assertive foreign policy. While South Korea isnt a G-7 country, Yoon was invited as one of eight outreach nations.

Yoon during a meeting with his chief sectaries on Monday instructed them to establish follow-up measures to carry out bilateral security, economic and technology cooperation and facilitate culture and youth exchanges between the countries, which were discussed in his meeting with Kishida. Yoons office didnt elaborate.

Speaking to reporters before departing Seoul, Kishida said he hoped to further strengthen his personal relationship with Yoon and work together to carve out a new era.

Kishida, who earlier on Monday separately met with groups of South Korean lawmakers and business leaders, stressed the need for facilitating people-to-people exchanges between the countries, which he said would help further promote our mutual understanding and give widths and thickness to our relations.

Kishidas visit to Seoul reciprocated a mid-March trip to Tokyo by Yoon. It's the first exchange of visits between the leaders of the countries in 12 years.

The back-to-back summits were largely meant to resolve bitter disputes triggered by South Korean court rulings in 2018 that ordered two Japanese companies to compensate some of their former Korean employees for forced labor before the end of World War II. Those rulings irked Japan, which insists all compensation issues were settled by a 1965 treaty that normalized relations.

The wrangling led to the countries downgrading each others trade status and Seouls previous liberal government threatening to spike a military intelligence-sharing pact. Their strained ties complicated U.S. efforts to build a stronger alliance to counter challenges posed by North Korea and China.

Relations thawed after Yoons conservative government in March announced a domestically contentious plan to use local corporate funds to compensate the forced labor victims without demanding Japanese contributions. Yoon later that month traveled to Tokyo to meet with Kishida, and the two agreed to resume leadership-level visits and other talks. Their governments have since taken steps to withdraw their economic retaliatory steps.

Kishidas trip to Seoul drew intense public attention in South Korea, where many people still harbor resentment over Japans colonial occupation.

In a news conference Sunday, Kishida avoided a new, direct apology over the colonization but still sympathized with the Korean victims, saying he personally feels strong pain in my heart over their ordeals, in an apparent effort to maintain momentum for improving ties.

He reaffirmed his government upholds the positions of previous Japanese administrations on the colonization issue, including the landmark 1998 joint declaration by then-South Korean President Kim Dae-jung and Japanese Prime Minister Keizo Obuchi, in which Obuchi said: I feel acute remorse and offer an apology from my heart."

Kishida also said he and Yoon would pay respects before a memorial for Korean atomic bomb victims in Hiroshima during the G-7 meetings. He addressed South Korean concerns about food safety following Japans 2011 nuclear disaster, saying Tokyo will allow South Korean experts to inspect a planned release of treated radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant.

Seoul's Foreign Ministry said the South Korean inspection team will consist of experts from related government agencies and organizations and that it will soon hold talks with Japanese officials to set up their visit planned for May 23-24.

Bong Young-shik, an expert at Seouls Yonsei Institute for North Korean Studies, said it was notable how Yoons government carefully tempered public expectations before the summit, which made it easier for both governments to present the outcome as substantial.

For both the South Korea and Japanese governments, the resumption of shuttle diplomacy in itself is a win, he said, referring to regular visits between leaders.

Yoon had faced criticism at home that he had preemptively made concessions to Tokyo without getting corresponding steps in return, and opposition politicians and some newspapers described the summit as a disappointment.

Normalizing relations between South Korea and Japan is a necessity, and I am in favor of it, but not at the cost of our national interests, national dignity, history and justice," said Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, who narrowly lost to Yoon in last years presidential race.

The conservative Chosun Ilbo, South Koreas biggest newspaper by circulation, acknowledged that Kishidas comments were insufficient to ease South Korean frustrations over history but also said that the summit reflected the countries' desperate need for cooperation.

South Korea and Japan are in need of greater cooperation in the wake of recent events like Russias invasion of Ukraine and Chinas maritime assertiveness that threatens its neighbors. The countries need to jointly respond to North Korean nuclear and missile threats is greater than ever. Moreover, the countries face similar challenges related to their slowing economies and declining populations, the newspaper said.

This is not the time to be stuck in the past.

__

AP writers Hyung-jin Kim in Seoul and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to the report.

More AP coverage of the Asia-Pacific region is at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific
The Ultra-not-expensive airline restarts non-stop service from Hamilton International Airport to Orlando International Airport

HAMILTON, ON, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - On Saturday, Swoop, Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline, celebrated its first flight since 2020 to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Swoop is cementing its position as the leading sun-flying ULCC, providing year-round service to Canadians' favourite destinations across the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean.

"As Canada's number one sun-flying ultra-low-cost airline, we are thrilled to offer our Hamiltonian's year-round flights to Orlando International Airport," said Bob Cummings, President of Swoop. "We know residents of southern Ontario value affordable connectivity to Florida so we're proud to be unlocking year-round service to Orlando."

Swoop recently published a new summer schedule, extending service to key leisure markets, with connectivity year-round. In addition to the service to Orlando, Swoop will also be offering non-stop flights from southern Ontario to Las Vegas, Cancun, Kingston and Montego Bay in Jamaica, Punta Cana and Varadero.

Canadians can unlock exclusive discounts at all-inclusive resorts when they book their ultra-not-expensive flight as part of a Swoop Getaway. For added convenience, hundreds of amazing all-inclusive packages to warm and sunny destinations with low Swoop prices are also now available through WestJetVacations.com.

"We're thrilled that travellers can continue to take advantage of ultra-low-cost flights to Florida this summer as Swoop resumes its service between Hamilton and Orlando International Airport (MCO). By spending less on airfare with Swoop, travellers can experience more in-destination and enjoy Orlando's wide range of attractions, world-famous theme parks and sunny landscapes. Your summer getaway 'Starts Here' with convenience and ease from Hamilton International!" - Colleen Ryan - Associate Director, Marketing, Communications & Customer Experience

"Orlando International warmly welcomes the return of Swoop passengers and is glad Swoop is resuming its service," said Vicki Jaramillo, Chief Development Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport. "Resuming this service improves connectivity between Orlando and Hamilton just in time for summer travel."

With one-way all-in prices from Hamilton to Orlando International Airport starting at just $99 CAD, Swoop is showing Canadians just how affordable a vacation can be any time of the year.

Route Peak Weekly

Frequency One-way total

price (CAD) Base Fare (CAD) Taxes & Fees (CAD) Hamilton to Orlando

(MCO) 2x weekly $99.00 $2.89 $96.11 Hamilton to Las Vegas 4x weekly $99.00 $2.89 $96.11 Hamilton to Cancun 3x weekly $129.00 $21.53 $107.47 Toronto to Cancun Daily $139.00 $20.24 $118.76 Toronto to Montego Bay 3x weekly $149.00 $21.29 $127.81 Toronto to Kingston 3x weekly $189.00 $61.19 $127.81 Toronto to Punta Cana 3x weekly $179.00 $54.84 $124.91 Toronto to Varadero 3x weekly $159.00 $34.09 $124.91

Everyday low fares terms and conditions: Seasonal start and end dates apply and are indicated in the booking flow. | Fares are valid until May 9, 2023, or while seats last. | Prices displayed are subject to change and are not guaranteed until payment is made and accepted. | Seats at these fares are limited and may not be available on all flights. | Non-refundable. | Fares are valid on new online web bookings only. | Learn more about baggage and optional fees at www.FlySwoop.com/Optional-Services-and-Fees.

About Swoop

Swoop is on a mission to make travel more affordable and accessible for all Canadians. Established in 2018 as an independent subsidiary of the WestJet Group of Companies, Swoop is Canada's ultra-not-expensive airline. Offering scheduled service to destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean, Swoop's unbundled fares put travellers in control of purchasing only the products and services they desire.

Swoop's fleet of ten Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft expanded in 2022 to add six Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, for a total of 16 aircraft.

At FlySwoop.com travellers can quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, and track flights.

SOURCE Swoop Inc.

For further information: For Swoop media relations, please contact [email protected]
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo in style with a sizzling hot giveaway!

TORONTO, May 5, 2023 /CNW/ - Cinco De Mayo is here, and redtag.ca is excited to launch an amazing giveaway that will make your taste buds sing! From May 5 to May 11, 2023, Canadians can enter for a chance to win a $2,500 travel voucher from redtag.ca and 100 delicious tacos from Quesada by getting their taco on!

#redtagfiesta is here with redtag.ca and Quesada! (CNW Group/redtag.ca)

Get ready to put on your dancing shoes and shake it to the beat of some spicy salsa because Cinco De Mayo is here! It's the perfect occasion to indulge in some delicious Mexican cuisine, and what better way to do that than with the perfect taco recipe? With options ranging from the classic beef taco to creative vegan alternatives, the possibilities are endless. Get your taste buds ready for a culinary journey as redtag.ca invites you to share your favourite recipe with them. And while you're at it, why not start planning your next adventure? It's the perfect time to set your sights on Mexico and create new memories with your loved ones in Canadians' #1 travel destination. So, get in the Cinco De Mayo spirit, and enter for a chance to win big!

To enter redtag.ca's #redtagfiesta, participants must follow redtag.ca and Quesada on Instagram, tag a friend in the comments, and share their favourite taco recipe. Participants can earn bonus entries by following @redtag.ca and @quesadaburritos on TikTok.

#redtagfiesta is on until May 11, 2023. This giveaway is open to all Canadian residents aged 18 and above, and winners will be chosen at random and announced on May 12, 2023. Don't wait any longer! Join the fun and show redtag.ca and Quesada how you get your taco on! Plus, stay tuned for more fun promotions and giveaways coming up.

For more information or to enter the giveaway, visit redtag.ca's Instagram account @redtag.ca.

About redtag.ca

redtag.ca is one of Canada's leading full-service travel companies designed to connect travellers to their dream getaways through the power of innovation and technology. They specialize in customized trips worldwide while finding the best deals on vacation packages, flights, cruises, hotels, car rentals, and more. redtag.ca is fully owned and operated by H.I.S.-Red Label Vacations Inc. For more information, please visit redtag.ca.

SOURCE redtag.ca

For further information: redtag.ca Contact: Sandra Weber, Director of Communications, Content Strategy & Social Media, Tel: (416) 277-7236, Email: [email protected]
SINGAPORE, May 7, 2023 /CNW/ -- Trip.com Group's corporate travel arm, Trip.Biz, recently released its Corporate Travel Management Market White Paper, taking a closer look at the Chinese mainland's business travel market and trends.

Companies in China are optimistic about the resumption of corporate travel as border policies relax, and flight capacity gradually resumes. According to Trip.Biz survey data, 84.5% of companies expect an increase in domestic business travel budget for 2023, while 74.5% expect an increase in international business travel budget.

This sentiment is carried across the global business travel market. In August 2022, the GBTA (Global Business Travel Association) estimated that worldwide business travel would recover to 81% of its pre-pandemic level in 2023, while the Chinese market would reach about 75% of its pre-pandemic level in 2022 and 89% in 2023, with an 18.9% increase in business travel spending.

Business travellers are increasingly eager for a comfortable, safe, and efficient travel experience. Trip.Biz survey data suggests greater demand for fast-track security lanes, flexible change & cancellation policies, and quality hotel service.

Many employees are embracing bleisure travel, with over 90% of business travellers in Trip.Biz survey stating they may visit local tourist attractions or historical sites at their own expense during a business trip. 38.4% of business travellers expect to have more leisure time in the local area. Business travellers believe that developed cities or scenic destinations offer the most when undertaking business travel.

The white paper shows that in 2022, over 30% of companies allocated more than 10% of their budgets to business travel, an increase from 2021. The proportion of spending on business travel is also increasing, making it one of the main expenses for these organisations as business travel budgets increase. Therefore, businesses seek evidence-based cost control and higher profits through lower-cost e-management.

Companies are vigorously pursuing digital transformation. Trip.Biz survey data shows that nearly 60% of companies have begun digitalising their business travel processes. State-owned enterprises, Sino-foreign joint ventures, and wholly foreign-owned enterprises have a higher tendency to manage business travel digitally. Additionally, digital business travel management is more prevalent in large and medium-sized enterprises.

"This year's strong demand for business travel and the pursuit of efficient management will be a major focus for companies, making the digital transformation of business travel management more urgent than before," said Steven Zhang, Chief Executive Officer at Trip.Biz.

Additionally, the white paper discusses trends such as combining business travel with low-carbon initiatives. Companies have gradually begun exploring low-carbon business travel options. According to Trip.Biz survey, approximately 85% of business travellers prefer flights and hotels with low-carbon certifications. Additionally, those responsible for business travel believe that implementing an online management system benefits sustainable and low-carbon development.

Download the full report here: Trip.Biz Corporate Travel Management Market White Paper

About Trip.Biz

Trip.Biz is a rapidly growing business travel management company with a vast network of corporate clients extending out of mainland China. It is the corporate travel arm of the leading global travel service provider Trip.com Group. For over 17 years, Trip.Biz has provided services to over 14,000 large-scale corporations, including over 300 Fortune Global 500 companies. Trip.Biz counts over 820,000 small to medium sized enterprises among its clients that have a combined total of over 38 million employees. Trip.Biz strives to help corporations lower their travel costs and increase efficiency. Find out more at trip.biz .

SOURCE Trip.com Group

For further information: Trip.com Group Media team via [email protected]
This is Up and Down, where we give a brief thumbs up or thumbs down on the issues from the past week.

Up

Ninety-nine deserving veterans participated in the Western North Dakota Honor Flight last week, an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to visit war memorials and other sites. Eighty-eight of those veterans had experience in Vietnam and were not appreciated when they came home. The veterans got a long-overdue welcome home celebration last Monday when they returned to the Bismarck Airport to a cheering crowd and band playing patriotic songs. The Honor Flight, which depends a lot on donations and volunteer support, is a great way to pay tribute to our local heroes.

Down

The harsh and prolonged winter was tough on people, but it was much harder on wildlife that don't always have easy access to food and shelter. Game and Fish Department Assistant Wildlife Chief Bill Haase says it was one of the most difficult winters for animals that officials have seen. The agency fielded hundreds of reports of deer getting into ranchers' supplies of livestock feed. And a lot of lakes around the state likely suffered winter fish kill. In the west, a spring survey indicated the mule deer population in the Badlands is 29% lower than last year. And winter survival of bighorn lambs was only 54%, the lowest level on record. On the bright side, the number of bighorn sheep in the grasslands is at a record level for a third straight year despite the rough season.

Up

North Dakota lawmakers have approved the bulk of the funding for a $161 million women's prison in Mandan. Work will get underway this summer on the 260-bed facility near the Heart River Correctional Center. It will take three years to complete, and the 2025 Legislature will need to approve another $30 million to fully fund it. It's a worthy project. The Dakota Womens Correctional and Rehabilitation Center in New England doesn't have all of the necessary vocational, educational and health care services, and it was never meant to be a permanent prison. That could make the state a target for a lawsuit.

Down

In the final hours of the recent legislative session, lawmakers made a change to how Legacy Fund earnings are spent. A bill sponsored by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden, included a formula that sets aside 7% of the five-year average balance of the Legacy Fund to be spent during each two-year budget cycle, reported Forum News Service. An amendment to the Office and Management and Budget bill changed that to 8%. Lawmakers voted on the amendment in the middle of the night as the session wound to a close. Its unfortunate that the timing of the amendment prevented the formula change from receiving the thorough vetting it deserved.
HARTFORD  Police in Avon warned residents this week about an attempted home break-in by an adult black bear, just over a week after another bear in town reportedly attacked and bit a woman walking her dog.

On Easter, in nearby Windsor, a collared bear was filmed rummaging through candy left in a residents yard for a childrens Easter Egg hunt.

Despite a series of startling encounters between humans and bears that have made headlines in Connecticut, however, lawmakers in Hartford do not appear to be moving any closer toward legalizing a hunting season after their efforts stalled earlier this year.

In March, a bill to address the rising number of conflicts with bears was advanced out of the legislatures Environment Committee only after lawmakers agreed to remove a provision that would have permitted hunters to kill as many as 50 bears each year in Litchfield County, where the population of bears is the largest.

That decision appeared to end discussions around a bear hunt temporarily, until encounters with the animals again began to make news.

The No. 2-ranking Democrat in the House, Majority Leader Jason Rojas, D- East Hartford, raised the possibility of resurrecting the debate over bear hunting on Wednesday, telling reporters that the attack on a 74-year-old woman in Avon had sparked renewed interest in the topic.

There are now legislators interested in perhaps coming back to that issue, Rojas said. That doesnt mean that necessarily something is going to happen with it, but there are opportunities to re-engage on issues.

While acknowledging that there has been increased chatter around the bear hunting proposal in the wake of the attack and other recent incidents, however, two Democrats involved with the drafting of the bill said on Friday that little has changed since the decision to drop the language establishing a hunting season.

To include an open hunt the votes are not there, and theyre not close, said state Sen. Rick Lopes, D-New Britain, who co-chairs the Environment Committee.

The bill that remains pending before the Senate would clarify the circumstances in which a bear may be killed in self defense, and allow the the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to issue permits to kill nuisance bears that are causing damage to livestock, crops or apiaries.

In addition the proposal would prohibit people from feeding potentially dangerous wildlife, and allow DEEP to issue fines to those who ignore formal warnings about issues such as trash or bird feeders being left out in places where they may attract bears.

Each of those provisions has enough supporters and detractors to place the bill on a tenuous footing with about a month to go in the legislative session, according to the other chair of Environment, state Rep. Joe Gresko, D-Stratford.

There are probably colleagues that are going to our leadership and saying, Dont make me vote on this, Gresko said.

In particular, conversation groups and animal rights advocates have continued to urge lawmakers to embrace non-lethal bear management practices before making it easier for property owners to kill bears.

"We understand the concerns, that thinks have gotten unsustainable," with the number of conflicts involving bears, said Ann Gadwah, an organizer for the state chapter of the Sierra Club. "But there's a lot of things you can do before hunting."

Those who have expressed support for a hunt include farmers, sportsmen and wildlife officers for DEEP, who say that culling a small number of bears each year will help reduce encounters with humans, which reached record highs in recent years.

According to Lopes, DEEP officials reached out to committee leaders last week to gauge whether lawmakers would be willing to reconsider the decision to forgo the bear hunting provision. After speaking to other members of the committee, Lopes said he determined that their attitudes had not changed.

In a statement Friday, DEEP spokesman Paul Copleman said that the agency continues to support the legalization of bear hunting, along with other lethal and non-lethal methods of managing the state's bear population.

"DEEP continues to work with the Legislature in an effort to reduce the frequency and severity of bear-human conflicts," Copleman said. "Our 2022 bear report clearly demonstrates that bear-human conflicts are becoming more severe  specifically, with 67 bear-home entries reported in 2022 (up from fewer than 10 in 2015), including two reported bear attacks ."

After passing a second, bi-partisan vote this week in the Judiciary Committee, Lopes said that there is momentum to move forward with the bill as written in the Senate. Still, he and Gresko said that the legislation is likely to elicit a lengthy debate on the floor of each chamber, meaning leaders will have to schedule time to consider the proposal within the legislatures already-packed calendar.

Connecticut is one of only two states in New England that does not allow bear hunting. The other Rhode Island, does not have a sizable population of black bears.
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NEW HAVEN  The New Haven Public Schools district has not faced an active shooter situation. If it does happen, officials and staff from schools and the city want to be ready.

The Police Department's nearly 400 officers were trained this year in how to respond to an active shooter situation  complete with live training involving simulated responses to an active shooter scenario.

Now, training is being scheduled for New Haven Public Schools staff. It also is being offered to city employees who want it.

"We have trained every New Haven police officer in how to respond ... maybe six months ago," said Mayor Justin Elicker, who sits on the Board of Education. "We just take this very seriously. There's too many guns in the United States right now."

"We've worked with all New Haven Public Schools to make sure that they have an all-hazards school safety plan that is robust," Elicker said. "We have worked to make sure that they are thorough and comprehensive."

The school system's training recently caused a stir after Superintendent Iline Tracey mentioned at an April 19 school board meeting the option to "fight back. The statement was amplified in subsequent media coverage, which Tracey later said lacked context.

Tracey subsequently sent an email out to employees, clarifying her comments.

While it's correct that fighting back, couched in training jargon as the option to "defend," is an option taught to New Haven Public Schools employees, Tracey and others said that as a last resort.

"We were told to avoid, deny, and defend with varied scenarios," Tracey wrote. "Defend means fight back if you can, depending on the situation, and not just be sitting ducks. If you can avoid it by running out depending on the situation, if you can deny access to your space, and if you can defend yourself, all these are strategies."

In the upcoming training, "All staff will be trained, and the logistics of doing that is being worked on," Tracey wrote. "Unfortunately, although nothing has occurred in NHPS so far, we have to be alerted to possible strategies should this happen."

The training is "not just New Haven Public Schools, but across the nation," Tracey wrote.

Representatives of school employees are eager to learn more.

"I want to take the training," said Leslie Blatteau, president of the 1,800-member New Haven Federation of Teachers and a social studies teacher at Metropolitan Business Academy.

"I feel like we've been asking for crisis training," and "it needs to be more comprehensive" than "just an active shooter" drill, Blatteau said.

Among other things, "we also need to look at teacher retention" because "the more we ask of our teachers, the more likely we are to lose them," she said.

The need to train school employees for active shooter situations first hit school system agendas across the United States on April 20, 1999, when two 12th graders shot 12 students and one teacher at Columbine High School in Columbine, Colo.

It rose dramatically in urgency with the Dec. 14, 2012 massacre of 26 people  including 20 first-graders  at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown by a 20-year-old former student.

It became an even more ubiquitous component of American education on Feb. 14, 2018, when a 19-year-old opened fire on students and staff at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., killing 17 people and injuring 17 others.

Those most directly responsible for security in New Haven weren't eager to talk about it.

New Haven Public Schools Head of Security Thaddeus Reddish declined to speak about the subject, said NHPS spokesman Justin Harmon.

Police Chief Karl Jacobson would only say, "We all worked together to make sure there is a plan, and the schools are safe. From the PD side, we will not discuss tactics."

Rick Fontana, New Haven's emergency operations director, said the option to "defend" or fight back "is not a big change" from what the school system has done in the past.

What's changed is that the NHPS is now using a different training platform, the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training, or ALERRT, training created by Texas State University.

Many other area school systems  East Haven being one example  use a different platform, ALICE Training, based on guidance from the FBI and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The three-day ALICE training, which requires trainees to pay a certification fee, includes a strategy known as "Run. Hide. Fight."

ALERRT training defines a similar strategy known as "Avoid, deny, defend."

According to Fontana, they are similar, with one primary difference being that the web-based ALERRT training is funded by a federal grant and does not require a certification fee.

The ALERRT training "is very, very similar" to the ALICE training, said Fontana. "There is not a whole lot of difference. It's just being done by another agency, which is Texas State University."

The idea is, "You've got to run first ... and if you can't run, then you hide," Fontana said. "And if there is no place to hide, then as a last resort, yes, you may have to fight.

"We don't want to scare people, but this is really serious stuff," Fontana said. "It is scary."

He pointed out that in the U.S., "we've had 179 active shooter incidents from Jan.1 to May 1 of this year. "It's serious stuff, and everyone is begging for training. The schools, the teachers  they all want training. 

As of Friday, that figure was up to 185 mass shootings, with more than 250 people dead and 725 injured, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

"Doing the right thing may save your life," he said. "Have a plan."

The city, which began training employees after Parkland, has a task force that has quietly met 57 times to refine New Haven's approach, he said.

"People want face-to-face training," Fontana said. "They want to know what to do."

For city employees, "It's really a customized course," he said. "You don't have to spend a lot of time here. It's an hour of training. We're offering it to all city employees  City Hall workers, Hall of Records employees, library employees.

"Right now, it's optional," Fontana said. But "every class is full ... Our goal is really that if anyone wants the training, we'll give it to them."

The next class is scheduled for May 17, he said.

Regarding the school training, "all Connecticut schools are required by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security ... to have an emergency plan," Fontana said. "We have 42 schools. We have to do 42 plans."

Harmon, the NHPS spokesman, said, "This is a conversation that's going on obviously beyond just the NHPS. This is a national issue, and in 2023 we have to be thinking about situations that are hard to think about."

At this point, "We haven't rolled the training out yet," Harmon said. "There are a group of administrators that were trained."

According to Harmon, security chief Reddish "feels that if he says anything beyond what I just said, it puts too much information in the hands of the folks who shouldn't have it."

But he said the "deny" option in ALERRT training "is if you can't avoid but you can 'deny' a shooter access to the space where you are

"Defend is what you do if you cannot deny a shooter access to the space that you're in," Harmon said.

"We do drills every year in all of the schools, but they're updating it," he said.

According to Blatteau, the teachers union president, the school system's employees have been seeking more information on what they should be doing for a while now.

"We've been bringing this up since November," Blatteau said.

"In addition to needing training ... we also need clarification on protocols," such as what might trigger a lockdown, Blatteau said. "We just need clearer protocols on that, on how the communication tree works," she said.

"Oftentimes, people hear (about issues) through the grapevine, and that's the opposite of reassuring," she said.
SCHOHARIE, N.Y. (AP)  A limousine company operator on trial for a crash that killed 20 people in upstate New York was portrayed by a prosecutor Monday as directly responsible for the deaths, while a defense lawyer argued he was simply in the dark about mechanical problems likely to blame for the wreck.

Nauman Hussain, operator of Prestige Limousine, is charged with criminally negligent homicide and second-degree manslaughter in connection with the 2018 crash in Schoharie, a village west of Albany.

During opening statements Monday, special prosecutor Frederick Rench said Hussain intentionally failed to follow regulations for maintaining the 2001 Ford Excursion stretch SUV, which was loaded with friends on an outing when it spun out of control on a hill and crashed into a parked car, trees and an embankment.

Hussain did not have the authority to operate his limo business, which was placed out of service multiple times before the tragedy, Rench said. The vehicle's aging brakes, he said, had not been replaced.

Nauman Hussain never followed any regulations, Rench said, pointing to Hussain who was looking down at a table in front of him. Nauman Hussain was completely aware of the unjustifiable risk that he alone had created and that he alone consciously disregarded.

Defense lawyer Lee Kindlon told the jury Hussain was not to blame.

Hussain, then in his 20s, was inexperienced in running a business and relied on professionals to make sure things were done properly, Kindlon said.

He blamed the problems with the vehicle on the shop Hussain used for repair work, Mavis Discount Tires.

The accident was caused by the fraud and failure of Mavis to fix the breaks, and the incompetence of the state of New York to uncover their misconduct, Kindlon told the jury. Finding a scapegoat condemning the least powerful person involved and declaring victory is not justice.

Lawyers for Mavis Discount Tires, which is not on trial but is being sued by the families of the victims, have denied that the repair shop is at fault.

The group that rented the limo were en route to a brewery Oct. 6, 2018, for birthday celebrations when the limos brakes failed to stop the SUV on a downhill stretch of road in Schoharie. The vehicle blew through an intersection and crashed outside a small country store. The group, which consisted of friends and family ranging in age from 24 to 34, were killed in the crash, as well as the driver and two bystanders.

The trial, which is expected to last as long as six weeks, comes after a judge rejected a plea deal last fall that would have spared Hussain prison time.

___

Maysoon Khan 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 Maysoon Khan on Twitter.
TRUMBULL  A body was found Sunday afternoon in a wooded area near a local walking trail, authorities say.

In a release, Lt. Brian Weir of the Trumbull Police Department said the body was discovered in a wooded area that borders the Pequonnock River Valley walking trail.

"A hiker was traveling through this densely wooded area a short distance from Church Hill Road when he came upon a partially decomposed body and some personal property nearby," he said. "The area is not easily accessible to the public walking trail and is far from any local residences."

Weir said no obvious signs of foul play were detected and police are calling it an untimely death, based on preliminary information. He said detectives are working to determine the identity, along with circumstances that would have led to the death.

"More information will be provided as detectives continue their investigation," he said.
TOLLAND  A double-fatal crash Sunday took the life of a homeless shelter director known as a selfless, giving person.

Bryan Flint Sr., 64, of Ellington, was deputy director of the Cornerstone Foundation in the Rockville section of Vernon and head of the organizations shelter, which sits next to its soup kitchen, food pantry and clothing bank.

Flint also entertained youth with his magic acts. Dressed in a red, white and blue Uncle Sam outfit, Flint used to walk around on stilts at Vernons Fourth of July festivities.

He died Sunday when the car he was driving was struck head-on by a vehicle that crossed over the center lines in Tolland, Connecticut State Police said. Two of his grandchildren were in the car, according to Cornerstone staff, but troopers said the physical injuries of the 9-year-old girl and 7-year-old boy appeared to be minor.

Coventry resident Amanda Bowen, 66, also died, police said. She was the sole occupant and driver of a 2008 Toyota Rav4.

According to a state police report, the crash happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. on the stretch of Route 195, or Merrow Road, between Goose Lane and Baxter Street.

Flint was driving a 2007 Subaru Legacy Outback southbound when Bowens Rav4 crossed the double-yellow lines while negotiating a right curve, troopers wrote in the report. The collision destroyed the front left corner and drivers side of each car.

A nearly mile-long section of the road was shut down for hours while crash investigators took measurements and documented evidence. The University of Connecticut, which is on Route 195 and south of the crash scene, warned travelers headed to graduation ceremonies to take a different route.

Flint was remembered on Cornerstones Facebook page as a man with a huge heart who was always open to helping people who were struggling. He found the time to do that little extra to make life easier for someone even when he himself was extremely busy. ... Our hearts are broken at his loss.

One of the people he helped was Jenn Kirchmeier.

Kirchmeier said she was broke and getting evicted from her apartment when Flint got her a job at Cornerstone. She was unable to work full-time because she has a daughter with intellectual disabilities and other medical needs, Kirchmeier said Monday.

Now, Kirchmeier lives in an apartment above the soup kitchen, she said.

Flint was like my dad," she said. "He saved my life."
Wolcott Police Department / Contributed Photo

WOLCOTT  Police say a local man is wanted for robbery, stealing firearms and several other charges.

Temer Leary, 49, is a felon and is "considered armed and dangerous," Wolcott Police said Monday.
NEW HAVEN  Victims of violence, or their next of kin, could get one-time financial help through a new program.

Officials at Yale New Haven Hospital, 4-CT and the Health Alliance for Violence Intervention said the program provides direct cash assistance to those affected by violence in the city in the hopes of reducing it.

Homicide victims' next of kin enrolled in the program would get $1,000, while participants who are victims of other types of violence would get $500. The money is privately funded and issued through a card by 4-CT.

The pilot program began in February and will run for 12 months, according to officials. More than 60 people have gotten payments through the program so far.

Nick Aysseh, the hospitals manager of the Center for Injury and Violence Prevention, said the hospital has a team of social workers dedicated to connect victims of violent crimes with available resources in the community, and this program is an addition to that.

Incidents that would qualify for the program include gunshot wounds, stabbings, sexual assaults, intimate partner violence and human trafficking, he said.

Victims of violence face physical injuries but theres a lot more that goes on with these beyond the flesh wound, Aysseh said. We talked about psychological, emotional stress, PTSD, depression, substance abuse.

Aysseh said 41 percent of patients treated for violent injury are reinjured within five years. And that, he said, puts a cost on the health care system and the communities.

In doing this, by meeting the urgent financial needs of these victims, hopefully we get them into a situation where theres no reason for another violence to occur, Aysseh said.

The cash assistance would be in the form of a cash card that can be used anywhere for services such as physical and mental health support, housing needs or food for the time theyre discharged from the hospital.

Since the program is in a pilot phase, the three organizations said the program will be evaluated using RE-AIM Framework to determine the public health impact of the pilot. It will be done by the Health Alliance for Violence Intervention.

Kyle Fischer, policy director of HAVI, said the cash assistance is a way to turn words into action.

We know that in order to address violence in our communities, we must go upstream and empower those most closely affected by it, he said. We are optimistic that this effort will not only save lives but promote positive transformational change for patients in Connecticut.

RE-AIM stands for reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance, Aysseh explained. He said the violence prevention team at YNHH doesnt only meet with the victims in the hospital and also does regular check-ins with them after theyre discharged.

So during those intervals, we're checking in with them and finding out if they are getting the services they need, Aysseh said. What they are saying. We will be able to tell how this program made an impact on their situation.

Sarah Blanton, CEO of 4-CT, said the group was thrilled about the collaboration between the three organizations to address violence as a public health issue.

4-CT knows the powerful impact that direct cash assistance has on peoples lives and we are eager to invest in the research to support this, Blanton said.

New Haven launched a similar pilot with 4-CT earlier this year, but the citys program is geared toward residents who were recently released from incarceration. They are receiving $500 a month for a year through that program, without any restrictions.
Seventy-one people contributed $73,650 to Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodatis 2022 re-election campaign, according to financial records filed with the city.

Those donations ranged between $250 and $1,200, the maximum allowable single contribution to a municipal candidate.

Anyone who filed a nomination paper or notice of registration with the city to participate in a municipal election as a candidate or third-party advertiser must file financial statements with the municipal clerk after each election.

These statements detail the income and expenses incurred during the campaign as well as any donations they received of more than $100.

All financial statements are public documents and can be viewed on the citys website.

Municipal candidates can only accept contributions from individuals who are Ontario residents.

The vast majority who contributed to Diodatis campaign have Niagara addresses and include businessman Rainer Hummel, both former regional councillor and MPP Bart Maves, and members of the DiCosimo, DiCienzo and Menechella families who are longtime hoteliers in the community.

Several contributors also donated to other city councillor and regional councillor campaigns, predominantly incumbents and well-known candidates.

Five of Diodatis six challengers filed financial statements (all except Grant Hall, according to the citys website).

Sandra MacKinnon, Connie Topolinsky, Joe White and Roland Weeks did not list any outside contributors to their campaigns, while Muhammad Shafique listed $2,275 under contributions in money from a candidate and spouse and $500 in outside contributions from two people, Shahid Khan, of Niagara Falls, who contributed $400 and Faheem Khan, of Brampton, who contributed $100.

Of the eight city council candidates who were elected, Wayne Thomson had the most donors, at 66, and total contributions of $50,050, while Wayne Campbell received the least from donors, three, and contributions of $1,900.

Victor Pietrangelo raised $27,950 from 38 contributors, Ruth-Ann Nieuwesteeg $27,625 from 46 donors, Mike Strange $22,800 from 28 contributors, Mona Patel $15,517 from 33 donors, Lori Lococo $10,650 from 32 contributors and Tony Baldinelli $3,500 from six donors.

Lococo received $500 from Carolynn Ioannoni, who decided not to seek re-election as a city councillor and unsuccessfully ran for a seat on regional council, and $250 from Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates.

Of the three candidates elected to represent Niagara Falls at Niagara Region, Kim Craitor ran a zero-dollar campaign, receiving no contributions and filing no expenses. Bob Gale received no outside contributions, running a self-financed campaign, only listing $5,542.48 under the candidate/spouse contribution category. Joyce Morocco raised $8,800 from 16 contributors and listed another $12,533.73 in the candidate/spouse category.

Diodati, who was elected to a fourth term as mayor, said hes grateful for the support he received, but noted donor lists dont impact local decision making.

People donate at all levels of government and they typically donate and support candidates that they like and believe in, he said. To think that for $1,200 you buy favour with somebody is absolutely false. Even people who have told me they never voted for me, I still represent them, Ill still meet with them and Ill still fight for them.

Lococo said she turned down donations from developers, but accepted contributions from hoteliers.

I can honestly say that there have been some proposals that have come through from hoteliers that I was against, so for me, (receiving donations is) not going to sway whether Im accepting or denying a proposal, she said. I look at each proposal as separate, it doesnt really matter to me who the developer is, or who the proposal is coming from.

Lococo said she donated to Gates last provincial election campaign and that she didnt donate to any municipal election campaigns last fall because she was saving her money.

You never know how many donations that youre going to get  you have a budget for your campaign and you hope that you can get the donations to cover that and sometimes your budget moves in an upward direction and you might need more, so I was holding onto my money for that.

David Siegel, a retired Brock University political science professor, said its common for businesspeople to donate to candidates they believe are likely to win.

He said he agrees with Diodati that mayoral and council candidates are not for sale, noting thats why theres a $1,200 limit on individual donations.

Siegel said there are also limits on how much a candidate can raise and spend.

You cant have a multimillion-dollar race for mayor in Niagara Falls, thats just not going to happen because of those limits.

He said some donors see it as their civic duty to financially support candidates they believe are going to do a good job.

Other people, even though its not a large amount of money, they dont want to be the only person who didnt contribute to somebody if all the other people in that business contributed to a particular candidate, Then I guess I better get out there and contribute to that candidate as well. But as long as we have the sort of limits on fundraising and expenditures we have now, I dont think theres a matter of councillors being really for sale.

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A beluga whale and a bottlenose dolphin have died at Marineland, the Ontario government said Monday.

The Niagara Falls, Ont., tourist attraction recently informed the province about the deaths, a spokesman with the Ministry of the Solicitor General said.

Brent Ross said Marineland told the provinces Animal Welfare Services, which enforces anti-cruelty laws and inspects all zoos and aquariums in Ontario, that necropsies had been conducted by professionals retained by the park.

Animal Welfare Services continues to conduct compliance inspections at Marineland to determine if the standards of care are being met, Ross said in an email.

Marineland did not immediately return a request for comment, but told the Niagara Falls Review that Sonar, a 26-year-old dolphin, and Kodiak, a 28-year-old beluga, died last week.

Marineland told the local paper the staff was devastated by the deaths.

Two months ago, Kiska, Canadas last remaining captive killer whale, died at the park.

The province has had an ongoing inspection of Marineland since it took over enforcement of anti-cruelty laws from the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in January 2020.

The province has inspected Marineland at least 160 times since then, Ross said.

So far the ministry has refused to release any details of its inspections.

In 2021, the provincial inspectors found all marine mammals in the park to be in distress, court documents show.

Marineland refuted those findings, saying its animals were not in distress.

In 2021, court documents revealed the province ordered Marineland to repair the water system in the pools that house beluga whales, dolphins, walruses, sea lions and Kiska.

Marineland appealed the order on May 18, 2021, denying the animals were in distress and noting that an unknown number of whale deaths at the park were not related to the water issues. Marineland dropped its appeal a few weeks later.

A number of animals have died at Marineland in recent years, including four walruses and an unknown number of beluga whales.

In 2021, Marineland moved five beluga whales to a marine park in Connecticut. One of those whales died within months of the move and another died within a year of the move.

The deaths prompted the U.S. government to begin an investigation into the move. That probe is ongoing.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

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Introduction

As business communication evolves, organizations must navigate a variety of choices to find the right technology that fits their needs. With the growing adoption of cloud-based solutions, businesses face the challenge of integrating their existing on-premise systems with new cloud offerings. NEC Corporation of America provides a solution, UNIVERGE BLUE, aimed at addressing these challenges. We recently discussed the features and benefits of this hybrid communication solution with Jeremy Dunegan, Sr. Manager of Strategic Partnerships, and Stephen Spencer, SVP Head of Enterprise BU Sales and VP Channel Sales Americas at NEC Corporation of America.

UNIVERGE BLUE: Bridging Premise and Cloud Communication

NECs UNIVERGE communications portfolio includes the SL, SV, and UNIVERGE 3C premise-based communication servers, as well as the UNIVERGE BLUE cloud/hybrid offering. This solution is designed to manage both premise and cloud communications, facilitating a smooth transition between the two.

The UNIVERGE BLUE CONNECT BRIDGE allows on-premise customers to transition to a hybrid cloud or full cloud solution, supporting investment protection and enhancing the digital transformation process by integrating mobility, messaging, video, and file-sharing features with existing NEC premise systems.

Although the UNIVERGE BLUE CONNECT BRIDGE shares some similarities with the UCaaS license, it does not offer SIP trunks. The solution can also integrate with collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams, Office 365, and Slack.

The adaptability of UNIVERGE BLUE creates opportunities for resellers to offer cloud services to phone customers, even if they are using another partners services. Technology services distributor Telarus is working with NEC to enable these new sales opportunities.

The Future is Hybrid

A recent LinkedIn poll we conducted indicates that, as of this writing, more than 80% of workers who went to the office daily before COVID are now either fully remote or hybrid.

NECs Market Position

Founded in 1899, NEC Corporation is a multinational information technology and electronics company. NEC has managed to maintain financial stability in the dynamic technology sector by focusing on core businesses and diversifying its portfolio. The companys strategic investments in AI, data analytics, and cloud services contribute to a consistent revenue stream.

Long-term relationships with key customers and partners play a role in NECs financial health and position in the global technology market. The companys emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction helps to establish lasting partnerships with enterprises, government institutions, and service providers worldwide.

In recent years, NEC has adapted its business strategy to align with market trends and customer demands. By identifying and investing in emerging technologies, such as 5G, IoT, and AI, the company aims to achieve future growth. NECs management also prioritizes corporate governance and risk management to enhance financial strength and foster trust among investors and stakeholders.

Conclusion

Businesses operating in the competitive industries of communications, tech, UCaaS, CRM, call center, cybersecurity, and cloud computing need flexible and adaptable solutions that can evolve with their requirements. NECs UNIVERGE BLUE is one solution designed to address the integration of premise and cloud communications, offering a path for digital transformation while protecting investments. For technical purchasing decision-makers, MSPs, and communication service providers, this solution may be worth considering to address the challenges faced in the ever-changing landscape of business communication.

Aside from his role as CEO of TMC and chairman of ITEXPO, Rich Tehrani is CEO of RT Advisors and a Registered Representative with and offering securities through Four Points Capital Partners LLC (Four Points) (Member FINRA/SIPC). RT Advisors is not owned by Four Points.







Aside from his role as CEO of TMC and chairman of ITEXPO, Rich Tehrani is CEO of RT Advisors and a Registered Representative with and offering securities through Four Points Capital Partners LLC (Four Points) (Member FINRA/SIPC). RT Advisors is not owned by Four Points.

RT-Advisors continues its mission of assisting tech companies in M&A and capital raising using our unique tech media background and relationships to aid companies to optimally position themselves. In addition, as of late we have been increasingly assisting fast-growing tech companies in obtaining non-dilutive capital. Please let us know if we can be of assistance. The above is not an endorsement or recommendation to buy/sell any security or sector mentioned. No companies mentioned above are current or past clients of RT Advisors.







Aside from his role as CEO of TMC and chairman of ITEXPO, Rich Tehrani is CEO of RT Advisors and a Registered Representative with and offering securities through Four Points Capital Partners LLC (Four Points) (Member FINRA/SIPC). RT Advisors is not owned by Four Points.

RT-Advisors continues its mission of assisting tech companies in M&A and capital raising using our unique tech media background and relationships to aid companies to optimally position themselves. In addition, as of late we have been increasingly assisting fast-growing tech companies in obtaining non-dilutive capital. Please let us know if we can be of assistance. The above is not a recommendation to buy/sell any security or sector mentioned.

Aside from his role as CEO of TMC and chairman of ITEXPO, Rich Tehrani is CEO of RT Advisors and a Registered Representative with and offering securities through Four Points Capital Partners LLC (Four Points) (Member FINRA/SIPC). RT Advisors is not owned by Four Points.

RT-Advisors continues its mission of assisting tech companies in M&A and capital raising using our unique tech media background and relationships to aid companies to optimally position themselves. In addition, as of late we have been increasingly assisting fast-growing tech companies in obtaining non-dilutive capital. Please let us know if we can be of assistance. The above is not an endorsement or recommendation to buy/sell any security or sector mentioned. No companies mentioned above are current or past clients of RT Advisors.

RT-Advisors continues its mission of assisting tech companies in M&A and capital raising using our unique tech media background and relationships to aid companies to optimally position themselves. In addition, as of late we have been increasingly assisting fast-growing tech companies in obtaining non-dilutive capital. Please let us know if we can be of assistance. The above is not a recommendation to buy/sell any security or sector mentioned.
Ontario is getting $121 million to fight gun crimes and gang violence as part of a $390 million investment from the federal government.

Minister of Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino will make the announcement at Peel Regional Police headquarters in Mississauga on Monday along with Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

The federal government will provide funding to the provinces and territories over the next five years to support law enforcement and crime prevention initiatives.

Strong prevention strategies like these are (a) central pillar in our plan to ensure Canadians are safe in their communities, Mendicino said in a press release prior to the announcement.

The program is a renewal of the Initiative To Take Action Against Gun and Gang Violence, a federal crime prevention program first announced in 2017, which initially earmarked $65 million for Ontario between 2018 and 2023.

The government said previous funds went to programs like Quebecs Operation Centaur, which fights firearms trafficking, and the Organized Crime Agency of British Columbia, an independent police force tasked with fighting organized crime.

Funding also improved law enforcements collection and analysis of firearms-related intelligence and allowed Canada Border Services Agency to enhance its detection equipment to better prevent illegal firearms from entering Canada, the government said.

The federal investment is complemented by the $250 million Building Safer Communities Fund announced last March, which provides direct funding to municipalities and Indigenous communities to support gun and gang violence prevention.

A Statistics Canada report from 2022 said that firearm-related violent crime has been increasing, and that the rate of firearm-related violent crime in 2021 was 25 per cent higher compared to ten years earlier.

In 2021, Doug Ford said his government would invest $75 million over the next three years to fight gun and gang violence.

MB Marissa Birnie is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @marissabirnie

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PANGNIRTUNG, Nunavut - The Nunavut government and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, a group representing Inuit in the territory, are holding a community-wide screening clinic for tuberculosis in Pangnirtung later this year.

The screening is to begin in September and continue through November.

A tuberculosis outbreak was declared in the hamlet in November 2021.

As of late February, 39 people in the community had been diagnosed with active TB and 167 with latent TB.

The last community-wide screening in the territory took place in Whale Cove in 2018.

The federal government and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, a national advocacy group, have pledged to reduce active tuberculosis across Inuit communities by half by 2025 and eliminate it entirely by 2030.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

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ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistans Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group. There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP.

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistans powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity. The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement, it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistans military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism, the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqis visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistans Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in TTP  which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

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DALLAS (AP)  The man accused of killing eight people and wounding several others in a mass shooting at a suburban Dallas shopping mall researched when it was busiest and posted photos on social media in mid-April of a store near where he ultimately started his attack.

The posts by Mauricio Garcia on a Russian social networking site suggest the 33-year-old had been planning the attack for weeks before he stepped out of a silver sedan and opened fire Saturday. Among the dead were two elementary school-age sisters, a couple and their 3-year-old son, and a security guard.

Garcias online activity also betrayed a fascination with white supremacy and mass shootings, which he described as sport. Photos he posted showed large Nazi tattoos on his arm and torso, including a swastika and the SS lightning bolt logo of Hitlers paramilitary forces.

Other posts indicated Garcia had researched when the Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, one of the Dallas-areas most diverse suburbs, would be the busiest  Saturday afternoons, the time he carried out the massacre, which ended when police shot and killed him.

The online activity contributed to an emerging picture of the gunman Monday. He was discharged from the Army in 2008 because of mental health issues and apparently had been working as a security guard, according to neighbors and an Army official.

Aric Toler, director of training and research at the international research collective bellingcat.com, said he identified Garcias profile on the site OK.RU by searching for active accounts with his birthdate located in the U.S. The AP independently verified the account, which also featured an image of a traffic ticket with Garcias name and birthdate as well as paperwork from a motel where he stayed before the shooting.

Federal agents investigating what motivated the shooting have also reviewed the online posts, according to a federal law enforcement official who could not discuss details of the investigation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

The official also said Garcia had a patch on his chest when police killed him that read RWDS, an acronym for the phrase Right Wing Death Squad, popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups.

Investigators have also interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs and are examining his financial records and other electronic media, the official said.

Garcia joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training, U.S. Army spokeswoman Heather J. Hagan said.

According to an Army official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues, he was kicked out due to mental health issues.

Garcia received an uncharacterized discharge, which is common for recruits who dont make it through training or the first 180 days, according to a defense official who also spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss personnel issues. That type of discharge  which is not dishonorable  would not set off red flags or require any reports to law enforcement.

On the Dallas block where Garcia lived at a family home until recently, neighbors said they thought he worked as a security guard but they werent sure where. The company that manages the mall where the attack happened didnt immediately reply to messages seeking further information.

A woman who lives next door said she didnt know her neighbors well but described them as nice and polite. Garcia was always friendly, waving and honking, she said.

A law enforcement official said investigators also have searched a Dallas motel where Garcia had been staying ahead of the attack.

Amid protests Monday at the Texas Capitol for stricter gun control, two Republicans sided with Democrats to advance a bill that would raise the age to buy semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21, though the measure has little or no chance of actually becoming law.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Just over a week before, five people were fatally shot in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

The community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded. Medical City Healthcare said Monday it was treating six patients: Three were in critical condition, two were in fair condition and one was in good condition at a childrens hospital. Police said a seventh wounded person was taken to a different hospital.

Allen, which is home to about 105,000 people, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth areas diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show that Allens population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online warning of a Hispanic invasion and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.

___

Baldor reported from Washington and Johnson from Seattle. Jamie Stengle and Adam Kealoha Causey in Dallas; Michael Balsamo in Washington; Vanessa Alvarez in New York; James Vertuno in Austin; Michelle R. Smith in Providence, Rhode Island; and Rebecca Boone in Boise, Idaho, contributed to this report.

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OTTAWACanada is expelling a Chinese diplomat accused of gathering intelligence on a Conservative MPs family, in a move likely to exacerbate tensions between the two countries.

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly made the bombshell announcement Monday afternoon, a week after the accusations first surfaced in a report by the Globe and Mail.

Canada has decided to declare persona non grata Mr. Zhao Wei, she said in a statement.

I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home.

Zhao now has five days to leave the country, officials told the Star.

MP Michael Chong, whose family was reportedly targeted, called the move a victory.

Its not a victory for me alone, he said, speaking in French.

Its a victory for all Canadians who have been a victim of foreign interference for the past five or 10 years, whove been subject to threats from authoritarian regimes like Iran, like the government in Beijing.

But, he said, it shouldnt have taken this long for the diplomat to be kicked out.

In 2021, Canadas spy agency concluded that Chinese officials in Canada were gathering information on Canadian MPs for future potential sanctions, and that was almost certainly meant to make an example of this MP and deter others from taking anti-PRC positions. (PRC stands for Peoples Republic of China.)

The assessment was first reported by the Globe and Mail, which also reported the official was Zhao and the MP was Chong.

Chongs father was born in Hong Kong and Chong still has extended family there, with whom he has not spoken in years over fears that his strong stance against Beijings crackdown on human rights would jeopardize their safety.

Calls for the diplomat to be expelled came immediately. Last week, Joly had told the foreign affairs committee it was under careful consideration.

But she warned the potential risks to Canadas own security needed to be considered in light of the 2018 arrest of two Canadian men in China during a different diplomatic dispute.

This decision has been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play, Joly said in her statement Monday.

We remain firm in our resolve that defending our democracy is of the utmost importance.

In the meantime, Chinas ambassador to Canada was summoned for a meeting with Jolys deputy minister last week, a move that amounted to a diplomatic rebuke.

In recent years, Chinas ruling party and President Xi Jinping have ramped up responses to what it has characterized as mistakes by restraining diplomatic and economic access.

Following Jolys announcement Monday, Chinas embassy in Ottawa released a short statement in Chinese.

The statement called the claim of Chinese interference in Canada a lie propagated by a certain politician and media, and accused Canada of breaking unspecified international laws.

China strongly condemns and firmly opposes this action and has lodged a solemn protest with the Canadian side, it reads in Chinese.

China will take resolute countermeasures, and Canada will bear all consequences resulting from this.

In 2018, two Canadians were arrested in China after Canada arrested Chinese executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver following a request from the U.S., where she was being investigated for sanctions violations and fraud.

The two Canadian men, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, were detained for nearly three years and were released only after a deal was reached in the Meng case that saw her go free.

China also exacted an economic price, blocking Canadian exports of canola, pork and other agricultural products. Some estimates have suggested the ban on canola alone cost the economy close to $2 billion.

News of the decision to expel Zhao came as MPs were in the middle of voting on a Conservative motion calling on the government to take four steps in response to Chinese interference, including to expel all of the Peoples Republic of China diplomats responsible for and involved in these affronts to Canadian democracy.

The motion passed, over the objections of the Liberals.

Seconds later, Jolys parliamentary secretary rose to inform the Commons of the expulsion, but there was little visible reaction from the Conservative benches.

Chong also won another victory Monday when the Speaker of the House of Commons ruled his rights as an MP were violated by Chinas actions.

The chair agrees that the matter raised by the member, that a foreign entity tried to intervene in the conduct of our proceedings through a retaliatory scheme targeting him and his family, squarely touches upon the privileges and immunities that underpin our collective ability to carry out our parliamentary duties unimpeded, Anthony Rota said.

The expulsion and the ruling are unlikely to tamp down the partisan debate and demands for more action from the government.

We dont know if there are others. We dont know if there are other examples, said New Democrat MP Heather McPherson.

There are members of the Chinese Canadian community who have been warning about interference, been warning about intimidation for decades. And so the fact that we are just getting this action now is appalling.

Chong had been unaware of the 2021 intelligence report, and later confirmed it in his own briefing with security officials.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as well as other members of his cabinet, had also professed to being unaware of the assessment until they read about it in the Globe.

The Conservatives have cast doubt on that explanation, and are expected to use a committee meeting this week to call the security officials behind the report to explain how they handled the intelligence.

Theyve also accused the Liberals of trying to mislead the public and undermine Chong by suggesting  as two MPs and the prime minister have done in recent days  that Chong received multiple briefings from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) on the issue.

Chong did receive a CSIS briefing in 2021, but has stated no information about his family was provided to him at that time and he was only filled in during a single briefing last week.

All of this occurs with the clock ticking down on a deadline for David Johnston, the special rapporteur on foreign interference, to submit interim recommendations on how the government should best handle the overall issue.

He was appointed in March after the Liberals had been pummelled with demands for a public inquiry into the issue in the wake of numerous media reports citing allegations of Beijing attempting to intervene.

Johnston must submit his interim suggestions no later than May 23.

With files from Tonda MacCharles and Jeremy Nuttall

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OTTAWA - The Liberal government moved Monday to expel Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei, who Canadas spy agency alleged was involved in a plot to intimidate Conservative MP Michael Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong.

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly wrote in a statement Monday that Canada has declared the Toronto-based diplomat as persona non grata.

We will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs, she wrote.

Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home.

Jolys statement came just as MPs were voting in favour of a Conservative motion calling for certain diplomats to be expelled and for the government to call a public inquiry into foreign interference.

Calls for Zhao to be expelled began last week after a report in the Globe and Mail that CSIS had information in 2021 that the Chinese government was looking at ways to intimidate Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong. The federal government has confirmed that report.

This should have happened years ago, Chong said Monday.

I hope that this makes it clear not just to the Peoples Republic of China, but other authoritarian states who have representation here in Canada, that this crossing the line of diplomacy into foreign interference threat activities is utterly unacceptable here on Canadian soil.

The federal government took its time to decide whether to proceed, with both Joly and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warning about backlash.

This is a serious and significant question, Trudeau said Sunday in London, where he was attending the coronation of King Charles.

This is a decision not to be taken lightly and the foreign minister is leaning into this very, very carefully.

Last week, Joly said that Beijing could threaten the safety of Canadians and the prosperity of the country in retaliation for any expulsion, but Joly now says that is worth that risk.

This decision has been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play, she wrote. We remain firm in our resolve that defending our democracy is of the utmost importance.

The threats against Chong came after he successfully sponsored a motion in the House of Commons labelling Beijings treatment of Uyghur Muslims in China a genocide.

On Monday, Chinas embassy in Ottawa issued a statement that accused Canada of breaching international law and acting based on anti-Chinese sentiment. It said the move has sabotaged relations between China and Canada, according to an official English translation provided by the embassy, and promised unspecified retaliatory measures.

Early Tuesday morning, Beijing announced it will be expelling a Canadian diplomat in China.

In a statement posted to its English website, the Foreign Ministry said China was deploying a reciprocal countermeasure to Canadas unscrupulous move, which it said it strongly condemns and firmly opposes.

It said Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, consul of the Consulate General of Canada in Shanghai, has been declared persona non grata and asked to leave by May 13.

The statement goes on to say that China reserves the right to further react.

China has previously insisted it does not interfere in other countries internal affairs, but says it will respond to what it calls provocations.

After the first report on the threats last week, Trudeau said CSIS did not tell anyone outside the spy agency about them, and that neither he nor the public safety minister were briefed.

Chong later said he was told the national security adviser was briefed.

The Liberals have now issued a directive that any such information involving members of Parliament be elevated to the highest levels, even if it seems minor.

The revelation about Chong is the latest in a string of foreign interference attempts allegedly made by the Chinese government in Canada in recent years, including efforts to meddle in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

Trudeau has appointed former governor general David Johnston as a special rapporteur to dig into the issue, including whether a public inquiry is needed.

The Conservative motion, which passed easily Monday with the support of every opposition party, does call on the government to move to an inquiry but it is not binding on the government to act.

NDP MP Heather McPherson said the expulsion is thebare minimum and the government needs to do more to ensure all MPs are safe from foreign interference.

The Conservative motion also asks Ottawa to create a foreign-agent registry, close down so-called police stations in Canada run by the Chinese regime, and expel all of the Peoples Republic of China diplomats responsible for and involved in these affronts to Canadian democracy.

The government is in the process of consulting about creating such a registry but hasnt said when it would proceed with creating one.

The House was also debating Monday a motion to decide whether Chongs privilege as an MP was infringed on, or contempt was committed. All House matters are suspended until a final vote on the motion is made. If MPs agree his parliamentary privilege was violated, the matter will be studied further at a House committee.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

With files from Mickey Djuric

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First, researchers found one.

Now, four years later, they discovered five additional trees in Algonquin Provincial Park that are more than 400 years old  located in a logging zone they are now urging the government to protect from logging, the Star has learned.

Weve done more studies, and found five more trees  for a total of six  over 400 years old, and many more trees over 250 years old at Cayuga Lake, said Mike Henry, a senior ecologist and lead researcher of the Algonquin Park Old-Growth Forest Project and author of Ontarios Old-Growth Forests.

I thought wed find at least one or two more in the 400-year range, but I didnt expect to find six.

The very old, unprotected forest is about 1.7 square kilometres in size, roughly equivalent to Torontos Sunnybrook, Wilket Creek, Glendon and Serena Gundy Parks combined, Henry told the Star.

We also studied another forest near Longboot Lake in the Algonquin panhandle and found trees over 300 years old. This forest is smaller but is part of a larger roadless area, he added.

There are a number of large, roadless areas in Algonquin Park that are unprotected; some are at imminent risk of being logged, he said, saying the current rules are no longer viable.

Algonquin was Ontarios first provincial park and is the oldest in the country, created in 1893, and in total spans about 768,902 hectares of land. Logging has always been allowed, though it is the only such park in the province  and one of two in the country  where that is the case.

Researchers say the old-growth forests  which include aged hemlocks  have international significance and a decade ago the provinces environmental commissioner said a ban on all commercial logging in the park was needed.

Henry said if the protected area of the park could be expanded from 35 to 40 per cent, that would be a start.

That would at least protect the really high value areas, he said.

In 2019, the provincial government said the first report on old-growth trees in Algonquin from Henry and his team would be taken into account in the parks updated management plan.

In a statement to the Star, a spokesperson for Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry Graydon Smith said the ministry is aware of research that has been recently undertaken to identify potential old growth in Algonquin, adding the most recent 10-year management plan for the park  which expires in 2031  was a rigorous process which includes stakeholder, public and Indigenous community input and involvement.

It was developed based on policies and legislation that provide for healthy, sustainable forests and ensure natural levels of habitat are maintained for plants and wildlife, said Melissa Candelaria, Smiths press secretary.

There are also many areas within the park where forest harvesting is not permitted. Approximately 1.7 per cent of the entire park can be sustainably harvested each year. Given recent harvesting rates, the actual harvest levels have been less than one per cent of the park.

But Katie Krelove of the Wilderness Committee, a national charitable organization, has long pushed for a phase-out of all logging in Algonquin Park, and has been urging the government to act.

The park contains an estimated 40 per cent of all old-growth forests in central Ontario, and to date about 24,000 hectares of old-growth stands have been discovered  and the committee says up to 17,000 hectares could be logged over the next decade.

Krelove said apart from protecting the trees, the government hasnt even identified the old trees, which are important in the climate-change fight. She blames inadequate resources, and a lack of political will.

To the vast majority of people in Ontario, and across the country, Algonquin is a household name, and they dont realize that its open to logging, Krelove said. Even people within the park, who are familiar with the recreational and protected area of the park dont realize.

She said the sustainability of logging in the park is unknown because its never actually been studied, and noted the provinces auditor general has called for a full environmental assessment of the impacts of logging on the ecology of the park, because its never been done.

Candalaria, however said forestry practiced in the park today is science-based and subject to meaningful public consultation. Ontario is a world leader in sustainable forest management, while protecting the natural beauty Ontarians cherish now and in the future.

Last September, Henry and a team of researchers went into Algonquin Park to take core samples, and one of the exciting things we found is that there were very few stumps  so theres almost no historical logging in the identified old-growth areas.

He said the average age of all trees sampled was 307 years, which is quite extraordinary. There are very few forests around eastern North America where you could find that.

Apart from the hemlocks  one clocking in at 427 years  the other old-growth trees in their samples were yellow birches and sugar maples.

Its pretty important to protect them because theyre huge reservoirs of carbon, because a lot of carbon is stored in the logs, in the trees and in the soil and that always gets released when you log, he said.

Another one is like biodiversity and genetic diversity  The trees are more likely to adapt to things like climate change and invasive species. Its really important for that context.

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The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC has advised Nigerians seeking the scrap of the scheme not to be unnecessarily emotional.





Giving the advice during a Unity Walk organised to mark the 50th anniversary of the scheme in Osun, the Director, South West Area Office of the NYSC, Amusan Oluwole Julius said scraping the scheme is not the best for Nigeria.





Amusan who stood in for the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed, during the Unity Walk in Osogbo, reminded Nigerians that in the 50 years of the existence of the NYSC, a lot has been achieved.





According to him, There may be issues in the past, the challenges the scheme is facing are not enough to call for its scrapping.





NYSC has done this nation a lot of good. The NYSC is felt in all the 774 local governments in Nigeria.





Calling for the scrapping is not the best thing anybody can talk of now.





You will agree that NYSC has made giant strides in the last 50 years.





When you look back from 1973 when this scheme came into being, areas like education, health care delivery, social service campaigns, national programmes, NYSC has made a lot of impacts in those areas.





Amusan noted that NYSC has met the expectations of its founding fathers.





When you are talking of fostering national unity, through this scheme, inter-ethnic marriages have occurred, we have seen mobility of labour, corpers being retained in their states of service, many corpers have established their own businesses in the various states where they are posted.





Amusan, however, noted that the challenges of the NYSC are the same with any other organisation.





The major problem is the issue of finance that has not been adequate to meet all the needs but kudos need to be given to the government for their inputs in the last 50 years.





They have been meeting expectations but there is still a need for improvement in the area of funding.





On his part, the NYSC, Osun State Coordinator, Agbor Ndoma Obim stated that activists lined up for the anniversary included a unity walk.





He added that on May 17, other activities for the anniversary would commence.





We are going to have lectures, symposia and other activities in the area of project commissioning that have been executed by NYSC members.





On Friday, there will be a Jumaat service. The week-long activities would end with a church service on Sunday, May 21, 2023.





He advised youths to be disciplined and listen attentively to the voice of elders and guidance in order to accomplish their lifes goals.





They should think big and start small. By doing so, things will be better for them.
Matthew Page, a Nigeria expert at the US state departments bureau of intelligence and research, had warned the UKs national crime agency (NCA) of the activities of Ike Ekweremadu, former senate president, ahead of his organ trafficking case.

According to a report by UK Guardian, the associate fellow at the Chatham House had alerted the UK authorities to investigate the illicit affairs of Ekweremadu, before he was jailed for trafficking a man to London in an attempt to harvest his kidney.

On May 5, Ekweremadu was sentenced to nine years and eight months in prison, while his wife, Beatrice, was sentenced to four years and six months for the same offence.

In June 2022, the couple was arrested by the London metropolitan police for attempting to convince doctors at the Royal Free hospital to perform an 80,000 transplant on the donor who was presented as the cousin of their daughter, Sonia.

But in the report, Page said the UK could have avoided the historical case of organ trafficking if the authorities had swiftly acted on his warnings about Ekweremadu.

In partnership with the UKs department for international development, Page examined how Nigerian politicians including Ekweremadu used unexplained wealth to buy millions of pounds worth of properties in the UK.

He also investigated how such politicians used funds accrued over the years to sponsor expensive private education for their children.

He found that in a 12-year period, Ekweremadu would have made about 339,000 as a political office holder, including his stint as deputy president of the Nigerian senate, the report said.

But in that period he bought three properties  two in London and one in Cambridge  worth 4.2m. The Old Bailey heard that Ekweremadu had an international property portfolio worth more than 6m.

Page supplied the NCA with a dossier of information about how Ekweremadu had used unexplained wealth to fund his UK activities.

Despite the warnings and financial red flags raised in the dossier, Ekweremadus organ trafficking plot went undetected until a young street trader from Lagos whom he had brought over fled to Staines police station in Surrey in May 2022 in fear for his life.
A former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has suggested how the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal can decide its case within one week.

Sani said the tribunal should give the opposition and ruling party one day each to present their case and defence.

He added that the tribunal should give the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, one day to defend its conduct during the last presidential election.

Tweeting, Sani said the tribunal should tell all three parties to swear in order to ascertain the truth.

According to the former lawmaker: Give the opposition one day to present their case. Give the ruling party one day to defend themselves. Give INEC one day to defend themselves.

Demand for Inec portal result. Tell all the three to swear. If this Presidential case is taken to Customary or Sharia court today justice will be done by Friday.Shikenan.

On Monday, the presidential election petition tribunal commenced proceedings in Abuja.

Recall that Atiku Abubakar of the PDP and his counterpart in the Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi are challenging the declaration of Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as winner of the February 25 presidential poll.

Atiku is asking the court, amongst others, to order the electoral body to conduct a fresh election following alleged irregularities at polling units during the presidential poll.

On his part, Obi said that Tinubu failed to win the majority of lawful votes and was unable to garner one-quarter of the votes in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.
The French Lieutenant's Woman

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Two intertwining and related love stories... In the first story (set in 1867 England), a strange young woman is dishonored by her affair with a French officer, and loved by a proper young Victorian gentleman who falls hopelessly in love with her. The second story (set in the present) chronicles the similar relationships of the actors who are portraying the protagonists of the first story in a film. In both stories, the lovers are affectingly played by Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons. John Fowles' novel was adapted for the screen by Harold Pinter and directed by Karel Reisz. Cinematographer Freddie Francis has been praised for his painterly re-creation of 19th-century Dorset, as well as his complementary 20th-century mise-en-scene.

Release date

1981

Running time

2:03:50

Audio

English

Subtitle

English [CC]

Actors

Meryl StreepJeremy IronsLynsey BaxterEmily Morgan

Director

Karel Reisz

Producers

Goeffrey HelmanTom MaschlerLeon Clore

Writer

Harold Pinter

Genres

Drama

**



theme?

ChatGPT

One of the major themes of "The French Lieutenant's Woman" is the exploration of love and desire. The film examines the complexities of human relationships and how they are affected by societal norms and expectations. It also delves into the concept of self-discovery and the idea of breaking free from traditional gender roles and social conventions. The film raises questions about the nature of truth and how it is constructed, as well as the relationship between past and present, and how they intersect and influence each other. Finally, the film also explores the themes of power and class, and how they shape people's lives and relationships.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDrGMOMbtbk



tied in with characters?

ChatGPT

Yes, the themes of "The French Lieutenant's Woman" are tied in with the characters and their development throughout the film. The two main characters, Sarah and Charles, represent different aspects of the themes of love and desire. Sarah, the mysterious woman at the center of the first story, is a complex character who challenges societal expectations and traditional gender roles. She is a symbol of freedom and self-discovery, as she refuses to conform to the rigid standards of her time and instead chooses to pursue her own desires and passions.

Charles, on the other hand, represents the Victorian gentleman who is torn between his duty and his love for Sarah. He struggles to reconcile his desire for her with the expectations placed upon him by society, and ultimately must choose between conforming to societal norms or following his heart.

The present-day characters, Anna and Mike, are actors portraying Sarah and Charles in a film adaptation of the first story. Their relationships mirror those of their characters, as they too must navigate the complexities of love and desire in the face of societal expectations and their own personal struggles.

The themes of truth and the relationship between past and present are also tied to the characters, as their personal histories and experiences shape their perceptions of truth and influence their decisions and actions. Overall, the themes of "The French Lieutenant's Woman" are closely tied to the characters and their development throughout the film.




Actress Ifu Ennada has revealed shes helping her ex to choose a wife.





Nollywood actress, Ifu Ennada has revealed that she is currently assisting her ex-boyfriend to choose a wife.





She said her estranged partner has a lot of women but cant decide on the one to date and ultimately marry.





The thespian said she is assisting him to evaluate and give unbiased opinions on the women on his radar.





She, however, said the final decision will be made by her ex.





Taking to her Instastory, she wrote, Currently helping an ex choose his wife. He has all these women around him, but cant decide on whom to date and ultimately marry. My job is to evaluate and give an unbiased opinion on each of the girls he presents me with. The final decision is his alone to make.





Ifu Ennada said it may sound crazy that she is choosing a wife for her ex but claimed they were better off as friends, adding that they had no business dating.
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, can fix Nigeria with Gods help.

Adeboye said Nigeria would prosper under Tinubus administration.

The clergyman urged Tinubu to fulfil Nigerians dream of a new nation.

Adeboye, represented by his Special Assistant, Pastor Dele Balogun, spoke at the monthly thanksgiving service at the RCCG Headquarters in Ebute-Metta.

According to Adeboye: Let us pray for the incoming government that God will support it and give it the Grace to do the right thing.

Thank God the President-elect has promised to fix Nigeria. If God helps him, Nigeria will prosper in his hands.

Tinubu would be inaugurated on May 29 as the next President of Nigeria.
Kenyan President Williams Ruto has congratulated Bola Tinubu, president-elect, on his electoral victory.

Ruto congratulatory message was contained in a letter brought to Nigeria by Felix Koskei, head of Kenyan civil service and special envoy, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, an aide to Tinubu, said in a statement on Sunday.

Tinubu is expected to be inaugurated as Nigerias president on May 29.

Ruto said he looked forward to working with Tinubu to champion the cause of the African continent.

On behalf of the government and people of the republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I convey greetings and congratulations to you on your victory, and to the people of the federal republic of Nigeria for their fortitude and maturity in ensuring the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections, Rutos letter reads.

I wish to applaud the close friendship which exists between our two countries.

Kenya and Nigeria share values and aspirations in various sectors including political, socio-economic, cultural, diplomatic exchange and indeed hold commonality of views on many continental and international issues.

I look forward to working with you to champion the cause of our continent, and to strengthen further the historical bonds and friendship that happily exist between our two countries and the people.

Upon receipt of the letter, Tinubu said he intended on maintaining the relationship between Nigeria and Kenya.

I intend to maintain that long, cordial relationship between our two countries and continue to pursue the aspiration of our forefathers towards building a stronger and more economically stable Africa, the president-elect was quoted as saying.

If we exchange ideas and inter-relate, it will help our continent. Economic opportunities would be explored for Africas growth and security.
As the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, kick-starts hearing on Monday, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, have filed an application for an order to allow live coverage of day-to-day proceedings on the case they brought against the President-elect, Bola Tinubu.

Atiku, who came second in the presidential election that held on February 25, in the motion he filed through his team of lawyers led by Chief Chris Uche, SAN, specifically applied for; An order, directing the Courts Registry and the parties on modalities for admission of Media Practitioners and their Equipments into the courtroom.

The PDP candidate and former Vice President contended that the petition he lodged against the President-elect, was a matter of national concern and public interest.





He argued that the case involved citizens and electorates in the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, who he said voted and participated in the presidential poll.

More so, he drew attention of the court to the fact that the International Community is equally interested on issues pertaining to Nigerias electoral process.

In the motion dated May 5, Atiku and the PDP insisted that their case against Tinubu, being a unique electoral dispute with a peculiar constitutional dimension, they said it was a matter of public interest in which millions of Nigerian citizens and voters are stakeholders, with the constitutional right to be part of the proceedings.

An integral part of the constitutional duty of the Court to hold proceedings in public is a discretion to allow public access to proceedings either physically or by electronic means.

With the huge and tremendous technological advances and developments in Nigeria and beyond, including the current trend by this Honourable Court towards embracing electronic procedures, virtual hearing and electronic filing, a departure from the Rules to allow a regulated televising of the proceedings in this matter is in consonance with the maxim that justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done.

Televising court proceedings is not alien to this Honourable Court, and will enhance public confidence, the petitioners added.

Atiku had in his joint petition with the PDP, marked: CA/PEPC/05/2023, applied for the withdrawal of the Certificate of Return that was issued to Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

He maintained that the declaration of Tinubu as winner of the presidential election was invalid by reason of non- compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Atiku further argued that Tinubus election was invalid by reason of corrupt practices.

The 2nd Respondent was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the Election.

The 2nd Respondent was at the time of the Election not qualified to contest the Election, Atiku added while listing grounds he said the court should consider to nullify Tinubus election.

He prayed the court to declare him winner of the presidential election, having secured the second highest number of lawful votes cast at the election.

However, in a reply he filed through his team of lawyers led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Tinubu, queried the legal competence of petitions seeking to invalidate his election victory.

In a preliminary objection he entered before the court, Tinubu, described Atiku as a consistent serial loser that had since 1993, crisscrossed different political parties, in search of power.

The President-elect said he would during the hearing of the petition, lead evidence before the court to show how Atikus emergence as a candidate in the presidential election that held on February 25, led to the balkanisation of the opposition PDP.

Insisting that he was validly returned as winner of the presidential election by INEC, Tinubu told the court that unlike Atiku, he has been a most consistent politician, who has not shifted political tendency and alignment.

On the claim that he did not secure the statutory vote from the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, Tinubu, argued that it was not a mandatory requirement of the law that he must win the FCT before he would be declared as the President-elect.

He said Atikus call for his election to be nullified on the ground that he was mandatorily required to score one-quarter of the lawful votes cast in each of at least two-thirds of all the States and the FCT, becomes suspect and abusive, when considered vis-a-vis relief 150(d), where the petitioners pray that the 1st petitioner who did not score one-quarter of the votes cast in more than 21 States and the FCT, Abuja, be declared the winner of the election and sworn in as the duly elected President of Nigeria.

It will be recalled that INEC had on March 1, announced Tinubu as the winner of the presidential poll, ahead of 17 other candidates that contested the election.

It declared that Tinubu scored a total of 8,794,726 votes to defeat Atiku who polled a total of 6,984,520 votes and Obi who came third with a total of 6,101,533 votes.

Aside from Atiku and the PDP, the Labour Party, LP, and its own candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who came third at the election, are equally before the court to nullify Tinubus election.

A three-member panel of the PEPC which will conduct its proceedings at the Court of Appeal in Abuja, will on Monday, commence pre-hearing session on all the petitions that were brought before it by aggrieved presidential candidates and their political parties.
The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal has barred Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State from standing before it as the representative of the President-elect, Bola Tinubu.

The Plateau State Governor had stood up and announced himself as Tinubus representative immediately after the first petition lodged against the outcome of the 2023 presidential election was called up.

My Lords, my name is Simon Lalong, and I am here to represent Tinubu, the Governor stated.

However, Justice Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel declined to recognize him as Tinubus representative.

You cannot represent an individual. Tinubu is not a corporation that would need a representative, the presiding justice held.

But Governor Lalong responded, My Lords, in that case, I will represent the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Meanwhile, the court adjourned further pre-hearing session on the petition brought by Peter Obi and the Labour Party, LP, filed to nullify Tinubus election victory till Wednesday.

The court set the same date for another petition by the Action Peoples Party, APP.

At the same time, it adjourned the petition of Atiku Abubakar and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, till Tuesday.




A dramatic twist played out on Sunday in Abuja as the South-East Senate caucus cautioned the President-elect, Bola Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, over the zoning of the position of Senate President.





They described the purported zoning of the 10th Senate Presidency to the South-South.





Their stand was contained in a communique issued after several hours of meeting held at the Maitama residence of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, YPP, representing Anambra South Senatorial District.





They rejected the zoning of the Senate President to the South South, saying that since the South East was denied presidency by the two major political parties, the zone should be allowed to produce the 10th NASS Senate President.





Part of the Communique read: We have observed with dismay the antics of persons with vested selfish interests who have planted themselves around the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and have vowed to shut out the South East from the Senate Presidency of the 10th Senate.





Expressing anger at the antics of those around the President-elect, the caucus insisted that it would serve justice to the people of the South-East, particularly as the zone has been blessed with ranking Senators-elect, Including members of the APC.





The lawmakers said ranking Senators from the South-East to the 10th Senate have capacity, competence and followership to lead, hence, the ruling party should remember its own creed, which is the principle of natural justice and equity.





That the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should extend the same democratic opportunity he received from the outgoing administration which gave all aspirants equal opportunity to exercise their fundamental and constitutional rights during the APC Presidential Primaries.





That there would be grave implications of zoning and endorsing a candidate from the South-South without any regard for the South-East as it could snowball into restiveness, the caucus stated.





They urged the President-elect to be sensitive to the times in Nigeria and ensure the country continues to thrive on the tripod of Nigeria (Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba) and the geopolitical zones.
MUSE Design Awards 2023 Gold Winner TECNO CAMON 20 Series





The upcoming CAMON 20 Series from innovative technology brand TECNO recently picked up the prestigious MUSE Design Awards 2023 as a gold winner in the Product Design of Telecommunications category.

TECNO's CAMON 20 Series, known for its groundbreaking stylish design, was again unanimously praised by the judges of MUSE Design Awards 2023 thanks to its industry-first CAMON PUZZLE deconstructionist design. This win further illustrates TECNO's strength in product design as the company gains recognition from well-established international authorities.

The award-winning device is set for launch on May 9th this year.

Held by the International Awards Association (IAA), the MUSE Design Awards is one of the most influential international awards in global design, known for its rigorous judging system and high-quality criteria. The awards focus on exploring artistic beauty and design innovation, aiming to foster "design muses" and promote global innovation and design excellence. This year's MUSE Design Awards received over 6,300 entries from countries worldwide and were judged by a jury panel composed of 51 expert judges from creative and design-led disciplines across the globe.

"The industries have gone through significant changes throughout the years, yet to have these entrants showcase their ability to adapt and overcome is certainly surprising and encouraging to our team in IAA," said IAA spokesman Thomas Brandt, "We celebrate good design in all its forms, and TECNO CAMON 20 Series caught our eye with its outstanding attention to detail, superb craftsmanship, and innovative design qualities, making it a worthy winner of our Gold Award."

Inspired by the deconstructivist genre of postmodern architecture, TECNO fuses the aesthetic concepts of international fashion brands and pioneering designers to create the unique CAMON PUZZLE design. TECNO tries for the first time to engrave 20 irregular ribs in a three-dimensional luxury lychee-pattern back cover material of Magic Skin. At the same time, sapphire-grade nanocrystalline ceramic is integrated into constructing the device's back cover. The combination of advanced materials and bold design philosophy challenges traditional smartphone design language and allows CAMON 20 users to make a stylish statement.

Of course, the focus is not only on aesthetics but on the user experience, too. The newest material of Magic Skin applied to CAMON 20 Series brings out the best deconstructionist design, creating incredible comfort with a natural tactile texture that doesn't attract fingerprints. With a unique appearance and high-quality materials, CAMON 20 series brings industry design standards into a new era by winning high praise from the MUSE jury and highlighting TECNO's position as a smartphone-design pioneer.

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has developed into a recognized leader in its target markets, delivering ultramodern innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, HiOS operating systems, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of Stop at Nothing, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNOs official site: www.tecno-mobile.com
The presidential election petition tribunal has adjourned for further pre-hearing, the case filed by the Labour Party and its candidate, Peter Obi.

Obi and the LP filed a petition challenging the victory of Bola Tinubu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the election.

In the petition marked CA/PEPC/03/2023, Livy Ozoukwu, lead counsel to LP and Obi, said Tinubu was not duly elected by the majority of the lawful votes cast at the time of the election.

Amongst other allegations, they claimed that Kashim Shettima, vice-president-elect, had a double nomination in contravention of the electoral act.

The petitioners are asking the tribunal to declare Obi winner of the presidential poll or alternatively, order the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a fresh election.

At the pre-hearing session on Monday, Livy Uzoukwu, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), announced an appearance for the petitioners.

Lawyers to the APC, Tinubu, and INEC informed the tribunal that they had filed separate responses to the questions raised by the petitioners in their processes.

Afterwards, the five-member panel led by Haruna Tsammani, adjourned till Wednesday for further pre-hearing.

The court directed parties in the petition to identify all the witness statements and documents they would rely on or object to during the hearing of the petitions.

While Lateef Fagbemi is the lawyer for the APC, Wole Olanipekun is representing Tinubu. Abubakar Mahmoud is the counsel to INEC.

The tribunal also adjourned the petition of the Action Peoples Party (APP) to Wednesday for further pre-hearing.

However, pre-hearing session for Atiku Abubakars petition and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) is expected to hold on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, earlier at the court session, Action Alliance (AA) withdrew its petition against the victory of Tinubu.

Since there was no opposition from respondents in the petition, the panel dismissed the petition.
President Muhammadu Buhari has disclosed why he didnt anoint any candidate during the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential primaries.

Buhari said he refused to anoint any candidate because he contested the presidential election three times and ended up at the Supreme Court without success, only to succeed the fourth time through a democratic process.

The President spoke in Lafia during the 2023 Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial lecture organise by the Nasarawa State government in collaboration with Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Gambari, Buhari appealed to Nigerians to accept the outcome of the 2023 election.

He urged aggrieved candidates to seek redress in court.

He said Ahmadu Bello was committed to the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria and stood for it till his death.

The President appealed to Nigerians to embrace his selfless service and the legacies he left behind.




A Nigerian on-air personality, Kayode Ojuolape Oladotun, popularly known as Do2dtun, has lambasted actor Yul Edochies second wife, actress Judy Austin, over her recent childbirth testimony.





In a new video making rounds on the internet, Judy Austin on Sunday gave testimony of her sons birth with Yul.





She said: I dont know where to start; God loves me so much. I know it might sound strange to a lot of people, but I dont know if he loves everyone as much as he loves me.





God has continued to fight all my battles. I put to bed when it seems like it wouldnt happen. He came through for me, he made sure that I was fine.





Also reposting the video on his Facebook, Yul Edochie wrote: IJELE. Judy Austin breaks silence. Shares her story.





Reacting to the clip, OAP Do2dtun tweeted on Sunday: Judy and her advisers lack emotional intelligence.





Judys friends or family allowed her to shoot such a video because they are either an absolute brute or they are just fighting their own battle not hers. So tacky and unnecessary.
The 33-year-old gunman who killed at least eight people and injured at least seven others at a mall in Dallas, Texas on Saturday was, unsurprisingly, wearing a patch over his chest that said "RWDS"  short for Right Wing Death Squad.

The right-wing extremist, Mauricio Garcia (who was shot dead at the scene by police), also had social media accounts that "revealed hundreds of postings and images to include writings with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist rhetoric, including neo-Nazi materials and material espousing the supremacy of the white race," according to an FBI bulletin, via Yahoo!

Also unsurprisingly, the angry neo-Nazi  considered an "incel" by Texas law enforcement, according to Yahoo!  approached the mall loaded with multiple firearms, including the AR-15-style rifle he used in the shooting. But, predictably, lawmakers on the right will continue to solve the problem by sending thoughts and prayers while pushing for more guns.

From Yahoo!:

Garcia had no criminal history but is believed to have been associated with a local neo-Nazi group, according to the email. He previously reported a lost firearm to authorities, which police believe allowed him to then modify that same firearm in an attempt to make it harder to trace, according to the law enforcement documents reviewed by Rolling Stone. The suspect is a U.S. citizen who has never applied for a passport, the law enforcement documents also noted. Garcia was armed with an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun, according to law enforcement emails. He was also wearing a tactical vest with an "RWDS" patch  a reference to "right wing death squad," which is a term used by white supremacists. He had 10 rifle magazines and six pistol magazines on his body. More handguns and rifles were found in his car, according to law enforcement emails. The investigation into the shooter's motives is ongoing.
The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a judgment for $910,000 for back wages and damages on behalf of 289 warehouse workers who were denied overtime while working for a staffing agency in Bergen County, authorities said Monday.

Advantix Logistics Corp., of Lyndhurst, was held liable for violations of federal wage laws for paying warehouse employees hourly and piece rates, but not an overtime premium for hours worked over 40 in a week, according to the federal Labor Department.

The workers had been loading and unloading freight from containers and pallets for more than 70 hours a week at warehouses, the Labor Department said in a statement.
A 12-year-old boy was killed and his mother and sister are in critical condition following a fire Sunday night in Maple Shade that damaged 16 apartments, police said.

The fire broke out at the Fox Meadows apartment complex on Adams Drive shortly before 10:30 p.m. and inured three others, Maple Shade police said.

The identity of the boy wasnt immediately disclosed by police.

Firefighters from Maple Shade and surrounding towns brought the fire under control at about 11:40 p.m.

In all, 22 families were displaced, Red Cross New Jersey said. The Red Cross provided food, clothing and temporary housing to 40 people from 12 families, it said.

Video obtained by 6abc.com shows fire and smoke pouring out of a building in the complex as well as a person being wheeled out on a stretcher by emergency workers.

The state Fire Marshalls Office, The Burlington County Fire Marshalls Office and Burlington County Prosecutors Office are involved in the investigation along with Maple Shade police and the towns fire department.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
A Vineland man shot and wounded by a police officer after authorities say he charged at the officer and injured another person with a knife on Friday has been booked into jail following treatment for his injuries.

Luis R. Conde-Perez, 28, was allegedly armed with a large kitchen knife when a police officer responded to a home on the 500 block of East Birch Street shortly before 11:30 a.m. on Friday, according to court documents.

The reason for the police response to the home was described by authorities only as a call for service, but the criminal complaint filed against Conde-Perez classified the incident as domestic violence.

Conde-Perezs public defender did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment Monday afternoon.

He allegedly charged toward the officer and a civilian at the scene, and the officer fired two shots, striking Conde-Perez, officials said.

He was airlifted to Cooper University Hospital, Camden, where he was listed in stable condition as of Friday night.

Officials confirmed he has since been booked into Cumberland County Jail to await a detention hearing.

Conde-Perez wounded the other person during the altercation that occurred before the officer fired his gun, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed in support of the charges, and the victim was treated and released from Cooper on Friday.

In addition to first-degree attempted murder, Conde-Perez is charged with third- and fourth-degree aggravated assault, and third- and fourth-degree weapons offenses.

Evidence gathered in the case includes witness statements and video footage, according to his criminal complaint.

The police-involved shooting is being investigated by the county prosecutors office.

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Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
Newark is selling small residential properties seized for non-payment of taxes, water bills, or other public debts for as little as a dollar each to qualifying residents who pledge to live in them.

Potential buyers are required to have lived in Newark for at least five years or be city residents displaced by gentrification. They must show proof of ability to finance the purchase and address any code violations or other substandard conditions.

Mayor Ras Baraka announced the Homeownership Revitalization Program ordinance on Friday, two days after the City Council adopted it.

Across America, LLCs are buying up owner-occupied homes and turning them into corporately owned expensive rental units, Baraka said in a statement. In Newark, where we work hard to expand homeownership, we have created a wide-ranging strategy to do everything possible to counter this dangerous trend. The Homeownership Revitalization Program is a new way to enable longtime Newark residents to become homeowners at costs that they can afford.

The program will become effective once the city puts together a list of available properties for sale and posts it online.

Buyers are limited to one property each under the program administered by the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, or NACA. The nationwide nonprofit mortgage company already runs another homeownership program with Newark. The city would take bids on each property from up to 12 potential buyers.

Its among the latest housing initiatives Baraka has launched over the past year to increase Newarks low homeownership rate, including a program run by NACA and the Newark Housing Authority to convert Section 8 rent vouchers into mortgage subsidies. Another measure places deed restrictions on some city-owned properties for sale, requiring that they be developed as affordable housing only.

Just under a quarter of Newarks condominiums, townhouses and single-family homes are owned by their occupants, compared to a statewide rate of 64%.

A recent Rutgers-Newark report revealed that Newarks already low owner-occupancy rate is further threatened by a trend toward the corporate acquisition of single and multi-family houses as Newark becomes more attractive to residents, driving up rents and purchase prices.

At the same time, Baraka has sought to stabilize occupancy in rental housing through a registry of property owners and to prohibit unconscionable rent hikes under a pending measure that would limit increases of more than 5% every two years for newly constructed buildings otherwise exempt from rent control by state law.

Last year, Rutgers-Newarks Center on Law, Inequality and Metropolitan Equity released a report titled, Who Owns Newark? Transferring Wealth from Newark Homeowners to Corporate Buyers, revealing that many single and multi-family homes in Newark were being purchased by limited liability corporations that then hiked rents or quickly resold them, driving up rents and sale prices.

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Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com
A 73-year-old motorcyclist died after a collision with a car in Gloucester County on Saturday night.

A Deptford woman was driving a car southbound on Delsea Drive in Clayton shortly after 7:30 p.m. when she attempted to make a U-turn in the area of Earl Avenue, according to borough police.

The car collided with a motorcycle operated by Clayton resident Thomas Pitt, police said.

Pitt was taken to a local hospital and later airlifted to Cooper University Hospital in Camden, where he died of his injuries.

The 25-year-old driver of the car suffered head and shoulder injuries and was taken to another hospital for treatment.

The crash remains under investigation, but police said they have no evidence the driver of the car was intoxicated. She was issued citations for careless driving and improper turning in the street.

Anyone with additional information about the crash is asked to contact Officer Kelly Guglielmo at Kguglielmo@claytonnj.com.

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Three fires in the Jersey City Heights reported during an eight-hour span Sunday displaced 20 residents, authorities said.

The first blaze was initially reported at 1:44 p.m. at 150 New York Ave., a three-story, three-family building, Jersey City spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione said.

At 5:30 p.m., a fire broke out 358 Liberty Ave., another three-story, three-unit building. And at 9:24 p.m., a fire was reported at 62 Cambridge Ave., a three-story, six-family building.

Wallace-Scalcione said no injuries were reported in any of the fires, which are all under investigation.

The two-alarm blaze on New York Avenue, near Franklin Street, displaced nine residents and caused extensive damage to the second and third floors, as well as the roof.

The fire on Liberty Avenue, between Lincoln and Zabriskie streets, displaced 11 people, Wallace-Scalcione said. Responding firefighters found heavy fire on the third floor, the cockloft and roof, and managed to contain it to the third floor and roof, with no extension to any other properties.

The blaze on Cambridge Avenue, between Griffith and Hutton streets, was called in at 9:24 p.m. Firefighters contained the fire to one room in the basement, which suffered moderate damage.

The American Red Cross responded to the fires on Liberty and New York avenues and provided emergency assistance for temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs to the affected residents.
Edwin Diaz is making progress.

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The Mets closer suffered a major knee injury in March that put his chances of pitching at all during the 2023 season at risk. But on Monday, Diaz shared a video of himself on an exercise bike, a good sign of where he is in his recovery.

Edwin Diaz is working on the exercise bike 



(via SugarDiaz39/IG) pic.twitter.com/POVPxt2E97  SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) May 8, 2023

Working hard, he wrote in video.

Diaz suffered a full-thickness tear of the patellar tendon in his right knee which required surgery. The All-Star right-hander and his iconic walkout music were sidelined. The recovery for the injury is typically eight months, but Diaz expressed optimism when talking about it following his injury.

If everything goes well, I think I can be back sooner than eight months, he said in April. They want me to get better first and then theyll see how Im responding and my strength and all these things that I have to do, and then start throwing, he explained. If the tests come back good, I might throw this year. Im feeling great. We are working hard to see if I can come back as soon as possible, but everything is going in the right direction right now with the team, and the doctors say Im doing great, so Im really happy.

While celebrating Puerto Ricos 5-2 win over the Dominican Republic, Diaz hurt his knee and was carried off of the field. He then used a wheelchair.

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Diaz, 29, signed a five-year, $102 million contract with the Mets this offseason, making him the highest-paid closer in league history. The 2022 All-Star selection put up a 1.31 ERA for the Mets last year in 32 game appearances.

MORE SPORTS:

Ex-Mets star is red-hot at plate

Why NFL insider Peter King believes Giants, Jets are not quite Super Bowl contenders yet

San Francisco Giants make a decision on ex-Yankees catcher Gary Sanchez

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Brian Fonseca may be reached at bfonseca@njadvancemedia.com.
One person was charged after a 16-year-old was injured in a shooting early Sunday in New Brunswick, authorities said.

The shooting took place around 2:15 a.m. in the area of Seaman and Drift streets, the city said in a brief statement.

The injured teen was brought to an area hospital to be treated for an injury not considered life-threatening.

Police didnt immediately provide the name of the person arrested or the exact charges. The shooting took place across the street from a firehouse.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
George Norcross III, a South Jersey Democratic party boss who has spent decades as one of the most powerful people in all of New Jersey but recently suffered high-profile political blows, said in a new published interview he is stepping back significantly from politics.

Its a development that carries dramatic implications for the hard-nosed and often-turbulent world of New Jersey politics  and one met with a mixture of uncertainty and skepticism in Trenton and beyond.
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Japanese adventurer Jin Ishikawa has a wild plan to sail from Sausalito, California to Hawaii in a 60-foot boat made of tule reeds, inspired by ancient Californian navigation systems. He's already built a smaller prototype, Amana, which hit the water in Sausalito this Saturday. Ishikawa's gonna let the tides and stars guide him once he's got the bigger boat ready.

With three decades of adventures under his belt, he's out to show that ancient folks had the skills to make such journeys. This summer, he'll be busy testing Amana in San Francisco Bay, with plans to build the real deal in Sausalito in 2025 and then set sail for Hawaii for a 75-day voyage with six crewmates.

This guy's no stranger to epic adventures. He's crossed the Sahara alone, built a seal-skin boat in Alaska, and explored the Colombian jungle by dugout canoe. Plus, he's already crafted 290 reed boats and navigated over 9,400 miles with them.

The San Francisco Standard:

Thor Heyerdahl, a notable Norwegian explorer, built a number of similar vessels to prove that ancient societies could cross oceans and hence potentially have links. Called Kon-Tiki, Heyerdahl's vessel sailed from South America to Polynesia in 1947. He later sailed a balsa wood raft across the Atlantic from Africa to the Caribbean. Many of his adventures were documented in films and books, although his theories have come under criticism from anthropologists who say there is ample evidence Polynesia was populated from east to west. Ishikawahas a connection to the Norwegian explorer that is more than theoretical. Kitin Munozhis mentor and the man who taught him to build reed boatsmade a number of voyages similar to Heyerdahl's. Ishikawa joined one such voyage across the Pacific in 1999, he said. He also participated in a similar journey across the Atlantic.

Launch party for Amana at Sausalito's Galilee Harbor. Photo: Sasha Cole, used with permission.
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Why bother getting mugged for your $10,000 Chanel Classic handbag when you can surrender a nearly identical knockoff that costs just $390? The New York Times delves into the thriving market of superfake handbags that look so authentic, people now assume genuine bags are knockoffs.

Some superfake manufacturers travel to Italy to source from the same leather markets that the brands do; others buy the real bags to examine every stitch. Chinese authorities have little to no incentive to shut down these operations, given their contributions to local economies, the potential embarrassment to local ministers and the steady fraying of China's political ties with the Western nations where savvy online buyers clamor for the goods. "They avoid taxes," Lewin says. "The working conditions are terrible. But all of that goes to turning out a very high-quality fake at very low cost."
Following significant swarms of Formosan termites in the New Orleans area, heres some basic information about the pesky critters:

Where do they come from?

They're from mainland China, not Formosa, but were given the inaccurate moniker by a Japanese scientist who discovered them on the island of Formosa, now Taiwan, near the turn of the 20th century.

How did they get here?

The termites infested packing crate wood used to transport equipment back to the United States near the end of World War II. Some of the crates were buried at Camp Leroy Johnson, across the Industrial Canal from Lakefront Airport on the Lake Pontchartrain shoreline. Infested packing material also ended up at Naval Station Algiers. In the Lake Charles area, wooden landing craft that returned from the Far East after the war also were infested with Formosans. Since then, the insects have expanded their range through their own swarming or by human beings moving infested wood to new locations.
Rep. Nancy Landry, R-Lafayette, who's trying to become the next House clerk when current House clerk Butch Speer retires at the end of the year, appears before the Board of Ethics scheduled monthly meeting in the Labelle Room of the Lasalle Building Friday April 12, 2019, in Baton Rouge, La. Landry was accompanied by her attorneys Alesia Ardoin and Gray Sexton.
Florida has a problem: more than a billion tons of radioactive fertilizer waste are being stored in 25 stacks. They have a solution: use it to build new roads around the state!

From WFTV:

The bill passed by legislators permits the use of toxic phosphogypsum in "demonstration" road projects in Florida. Critics said this is the first step in a phosphate industry push to eventually use the waste in roads nationwide.

The Environmental Protection Agency prohibits using the toxic phosphate waste in roadway construction because it poses an unacceptable risk to road construction workers, public health and the environment.

From The Center for Biological Diversity:
A coming-of-age ceremony for high school seniors On May 5th, the Seventh High School of Hefei held a coming-of-age ceremony for the senior students. After parents put on the coming-of-age medals on their children, students bowed to their parents as a sign of thanks, and recited the declaration of adulthood while holding the Constitution in front of their chest, students and parents stepped onto the red carpet one after another while solemnly passing the red "Coming-of-Age Gate" to embrace the most important moment in life, accompanied by music. Senior year students walked through the red "Coming-of-Age Gate" Students playing interactive games Students in a tug of war Reported by Xu Qingyong and Liu Yucai Translated by Zheng Chen
A guest at a Hilton Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, reported waking up in his room to find the hotel manager sucking his toes, according to WKRN. Night manager David Neal, 52, is accused of making a copy of the victim's room key, sneaking into his room, and sucking the victim's toes while he was asleep.

From WKRN:

He immediately confronted Neal and recognized him as the person who had come into his room the day before with another employee to address an issue the guest was having with his TV, according to investigators. Officers arrived at the hotel and spoke with Neal who admitted to entering the guest's room, but said he did so after he allegedly smelled smoke and wanted to check on the victim. However, police said Neal did not report the smell of smoke to security, nor were there any other reports about a smell of smoke in the hotel.

Neal was later arrested at his home on charges of aggravated burglary and assault.

Secure those deadbolts, folks!
Google's Pixel Tablet, a forthcoming competitor to Apple's iPad lineup and whatever Samsung sells in like form, now has a release date a price thanks to Amazon Japan leaking it: 79,800 Yen ($592) and June 20th, 2023. Phone Arena's Alan Friedman puts this in context:

The model number for the Porcelain variant (which is white) is GA04750-JP. We assume that the "JP" after the hyphen is Google's country code for Japan. The Hazel variant is listed as being out of stock although we don't know whether this is posted as such simply because the device has yet to be officially announced. We expect the Pixel Tablet to feature a 10.9-inch display with a 1600 x 2560 resolution and the device will be powered by the Google Tensor 2 SoC. That is the same chipset that powers the Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro, and is also expected to be under the hood of the soon-to-be-announced Pixel 7a mid-ranger. The latest rumored specs have the slate carrying 8GB of RAM and the storage options are expected to be 128GB/256GB. Android 13 will be pre-installed.

It looks very handsome! The existing Android tablet options are not up to snuff, so it'll be good to see a credible alternative to the iPad Pro for serious tableting around. At The Verge, Jon Porter rounds up all the rumors about Google's new lineup of Pixel gadgetry.
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The City of Chicago has been dragging its heels for three years to make a decision on whether to allow the Satanic Temple to perform invocations at city council meetings. Now the Temple is suing the City for violating its first amendment rights.

From Reason:

"By excluding Plaintiffs Vavrick and The Satanic Temple from providing an invocation before the City Council, while opening this forum to clergy from other faiths, Defendant violates the First Amendment's establishment clause," the lawsuit claims, adding that "the lack of any policy setting standards and criteria for selection of clergy members to provide an invocation before City Council violates the First Amendment because it vests unbridled discretion with the City Clerk, creating an unreasonable risk of arbitrary and discriminatory decision-making." While it's possible that other factors, like simple incompetence, could have contributed to Chicago's failure to schedule a Satanic Temple invocation, discrimination against the Temple is clearly prohibited by the First Amendment. Even if Chicago may not like it, Satanistsand clergy from any other disfavored faithhave an equal right to give invocations before the City Council.

The Satanic Temple is a nontheistic religion that follows seven tenets, such as "The freedoms of others should be respected, including the freedom to offend. To willfully and unjustly encroach upon the freedoms of another is to forgo one's own."
Studio Ghibli Fest is in full swing. This week (May 7, 8, and 10) movie theaters across the United States will be showing Ponyo, and helping to celebrate the film's 15th anniversary. And here's the schedule for the film showings between now and November:

May 7, 8, and 10: Ponyo

June 11, 12, and 14: Kiki's Delivery Service

July 9 and 11: Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind

July 10 and12: Castle in the Sky

August 5-9: Princess Mononoke

August 20 and 22: Porco Rosso

August 21 and 23: The Wind Rises (10th anniversary)

Sept 23-27: Howl's Moving Castle

Oct 28-Nov 1: Spirited Away

The festival website explains:

Each film will have an exclusive selection from the documentary series 10 Years With Hayao Miyazaki so you can step behind the scenes with the animation master.

For more information, to find a theater near you, and to buy tickets, check out the festival webpage.
An environmental group is calling for tougher protections before the state renews Carmeuse Line's air quality permit in Gary.

Carmeuse, a multinational that's headquartered in Belgium and bases its North American operations in Pittsburgh, provides steel mills with limestone, one of the main ingredients burnt in blast furnaces to make iron. The company has local operations in Portage and at Buffington Harbor along the Lake Michigan lakefront in Gary.

The limestone manufacturing plant on Lake Michigan is now asking Indiana environmental regulators to renew its air quality permit, which was last renewed in 2014.

The Environmental Law & Policy Center raised concerns about past air quality violations at the plant. It said it is not opposing a renewal of the permit for the steel mill supplier, but is calling for more amendments to it. ELPC has been petitioning the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to require more emissions testing, more robust monitoring, a ban on burning trash for fuel and an environmental compliance audit.

IDEMs failure to toughen the permit renewal is tantamount to giving Carmeuse a green light to continue violating its permit with impunity," said Mike Zoeller, senior attorney at ELPC.

Carmeuse did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Environmental Law & Policy Center said more should be done to reign in air emissions like nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide and other chemicals that could be harmful to the health of the people who live nearby, who are often minorities in low-income households.

Carmeuse was fined $11,250 for air quality violations in 2014, according to the Indiana Department of Environment Management. ELPC said it has had a long history of noncompliance with its past permit.

Despite repeated violations of its air permit, IDEM proposes to renew Carmeuse Limes permit for another five years on largely the same terms, said Mike Zoeller, senior attorney at ELPC. IDEM should seize this opportunity to amend the permit to improve compliance and reduce harm to the surrounding overburdened communities."

The Environmental Law & Policy Center calls for more stack tests and continuous emissions monitoring of its five lime kilns that date back 50 years and account for much of the air pollution at Carmeuse Lime in Gary. It's part of its ongoing campaign to clean up the water, land and air in Northwest Indiana, a cradle of heavy industry the Environmental Protection Agency said has some of the worst air quality in the country.
VALPARAISO  Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer has announced his intention to seek reelection next year.

Clymer, a Republican, is the only Porter County judge who regularly livestreams his courtroom proceedings on the internet so the public can watch without attending in person.

"Cameras were prohibited in Indiana courts until 2020, when the Supreme Court allowed 'virtual' appearances, Zoom hearings and livestreaming of court proceedings because of travel restrictions," he said.

"I am proud to allow the public to see what happens in my court by simply watching online. Livestreaming should give the public confidence in what is happening in my court because anyone can watch as it happens."

Clymer was appointed by Gov. Eric Holcomb in 2017 to succeed then-retiring Judge Bill Alexa. He was elected by Porter County voters to a full term in 2018.

Man held gun to woman's head, threatened 'full shootout,' Region police say The accused reportedly admitted to Hobart police that he pointed the gun at the woman's head, "in an effort to let her know he wasn't playing around anymore."

Clymer presides over major felony cases and civil cases with unlimited jurisdiction.

"I look forward to the opportunity to serve six more years," he said.

His current term will end in December 2024.

Gallery: Recent arrests booked into the Porter County Jail Dawn Tucker Karen Snyder Anthony Maxberry Flavio Quintanilla Jeremy Riley Brayden Joseph Stephen Kearney Jason Hammer Crystal Robinson Rebecca Masse Nicholas Kleihege Marteus Holbrook Brandon Welshan Mitchell Rospierski Kevin Shufford II Tumen Tysrendorzhiev Georgina Houston Leona Riley Sandra Dombrowski Wardell Brown Timothy Burton Kaylee Schoenenberger Jennifer Bish Tucker Morse Dustin Mathews Aiden McAlvey William Milan Joshua Heaviland Sierra Kindy Joseph Bauer Giovani Phan Karen Hanchar Jordan Lewis Andres Cadena Sean Webster Abigail Ziembicki Julia Shannon Paul Hudak Jr. Zachary Davenport
ST. JOHN  A 15-year-old Lake Central High School student was taken into custody and faces 10 criminal charges stemming from allegations of sending a message to fellow students that read, "bombing the school, it will go off as soon as the bell rings this is not a joke," according to St. John police.

"We want our community to know that we take any threat to the safety of our schools very seriously and will vigorously investigate any threats, and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law," said Roger Patz, public information officer with St. John police.

"We want to thank the Lake Central School Corporation, our officer and detectives and the FBI for working to quickly bring this matter to justice."

School officials and police began investigating May 1 after learning at least two high school students received an AirDrop message on their cell phones containing the bomb threat, Patz said.

"The message was airdropped at 11:50 a.m.," he said.

Additional officers and a bomb sniffing police dog responded to the school at 8400 Wicker Ave. and it was determined there was no bomb on site, according to Patz.

"School authorities made the decision to dismiss school early as a precaution while police continued to investigate," he said.

UPDATE: Police cancel Silver Alert on missing woman Police have cancelled a Silver Alert issued earlier Monday on a missing 24-year-old South Bend woman believed to be in extreme danger and poss

"Students who received the AirDrop message had been in the same classroom and after reviewing school security cameras, police observed two students enter the classroom directly before the AirDrop message was sent and the same two were observed leaving the classroom immediately after the message was sent," Patz said. "Neither student was supposed to be in that particular class."

St. John police said they interviewed both students in the presence of their parents and the FBI determined after analyzing their cell phones that the threat had been placed by one of the phones.

The 15-year-old student was taken into custody at the Lake County Juvenile Detention Center and faces three felony counts of intimidation and three misdemeanor counts of harassment and disorderly conduct, and one count of false informing, police said.

Gallery: Recent arrests booked into Lake County Jail Nidia Trinidad-Reyes Timothy Snow James Reid Kayla Ruiz Joseph Sheridan Anthony Lardydell Marcus Lucio Karolina Mallett Brent Ladwig Heather Grzelak Cortney Kelley Tyray Gary Wayne Gralewski Jr. Donnell Brooks Jr. Latasha Buchanan Jason Cohen Tina Criswell Johnnie Blair Diamond Tillotson Spates Dallas Vondersaar John Petrassi Christian Reed Curt Schwab Dion Neal Tyion Grayson Daryl Jones Latajonae Larry Christopher Lobody Lisa Ellis Raul Barajas Michael Caine Joseph Dunkerley Laquan Afolayan Susan Unruh Christopher Townsell Joshua Tillger Elliott Torres Jason Sivak Bruce Evans Christopher Fils Larcel Lockhart Arthur Erb Jr. Anthony Campero Devon Cross Deja Dowdy Damon Edwards Christian Tindell-Hall Donald Williams Bailey Windom James Taylor Russell Starnes Casey Ramos Jr. Jesse Sanchez Samantha Shaffer Brian Potter Adam McCormick Frankie Munoz Terry Perkins Ian Pilkins Emanuel Ivy Karlon Jackson Leonard Johnson Javier Martinez Jeffrey Davis Auop Elmatari Samantha Cardenas Ray Dampier Gerardo Avila
CROWN POINT  Mayor Pete Land recently swore in seven Crown Point Fire Rescue firefighters, the most in the departments history.

The new firefighters: Brett Wisenbaugh, Ben Rosenfeldt, David Graham, Jackie Osborne, Jason Kooyenga, Joseph Bonk and Meghan Mulroe.

Wisenbaugh was born and raised in Michigan City and has 10 years of experience in EMS.

He has worked as a part-time paramedic with Crown Point Fire Rescue since 2021.

Rosenfeldt was born in Munster and raised in Gulf Shores, Alabama. He began his career in EMS and fire in 2012. He is serving his seventh year with the U.S. Army National Guard, where he will continue to serve.

Graham grew up in St. John. Previously, he served as a volunteer firefighter with the St. John Fire Department. He is a paramedic student at Franciscan Health and will be a paramedic by the beginning of 2024.

Osborne was a volunteer firefighter for nearly three years before joining Crown Point Fire Rescue. She started her career as an EMT at St. Marys Emergency Room and is enrolled in their paramedic academy.

Kooyenga lives in Crown Point and received his fire and EMT certifications through Prairie State College in Illinois.

Bonk was born in Beecher, Illinois, and grew up in Dyer. He previously served with the Dyer Fire Department and is an EMT school and District 1 Career Academy graduate.

Mulroe is a Crown Point native who has served for the past two years as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with Crown Point Fire Rescue.

The historic swearing-in ceremony came as Crown Point Fire Rescue received a $2.26 million Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response Grant (SAFER) from the Department of Homeland Securitys Federal Emergency Management Agency in late 2022.

The grant does not require a match from the city and fully funds the salary and benefits for the seven firefighters for three years. The city will cover the salaries beginning in 2026. Crown Point was the only municipality in Northwest Indiana to receive the grant in 2022.

It has increased Crown Point Fire Rescues staffing from 14 people a shift to 16.

It was only seven months ago we were notified that our department was one of the very few selected to receive the SAFER grant, Fire Chief Mark Baumgardner Jr. said. The pursuit of this grant began seven years ago under retired Fire Chief Greg DeLor and former Mayor David Uran."

Appropriately dubbed the Safer 7, the men and women sworn in several weeks ago represent the best of the best, Baumgardner said, noting that nearly 200 people applied for the seven slots.

Its not just certifications and experience, it is their moral character. How they were raised. How they treat people. We can train just about anyone to become firefighters and paramedics. It is much harder to teach people to be kind, respectful and engaged."

Land said the swearing-in ceremony was a historic day for not only Crown Point Fire Rescue but the city as a whole, and he thanked FEMA and the office of U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, for their support.

The new firefighters have begun training and began reporting for their shifts April 23.
Indiana Democrats are questioning the decision by Republican Secretary of State Diego Morales to attend a recent international gathering of conservative politicians and influencers in Budapest, Hungary.

A photo posted Thursday on Twitter by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban shows Morales, Indiana's chief elections officer, nearly standing next to the nationalist leader, separated only by Kari Lake, the failed 2022 Arizona gubernatorial candidate and election-results denier.

The secretary of state's office said Monday that Morales was invited to attend and speak as a guest of the conference organizers, and no agency or taxpayer money was used to send Morales to Eastern Europe.

Morales subsequently posted on Facebook: "As a conservative Republican, I was proud to be invited to speak at CPAC in Budapest, Hungary this past weekend."

The Conservative Political Action Conference convened in Hungary under a "No Woke Zone" banner, and participants heard Orban describe progressive policies as "a nation-destroying virus" that will eliminate freedom and lead to the fall of the West.

In a recorded message, Republican former President Donald Trump similarly told the CPAC audience Western civilization "needs saving. It is in serious trouble."

"We are now engaged in a historic battle with the Marxists, globalists and communists all over the world. We are fighting against barbarians who want to demolish our liberty and our traditions and everything we hold dear," he said.

"All of us, both in Europe and in America, must stand together to defend our culture, our borders, our Judeo-Christian values, our identity and our way of life from those who want to destroy our beloved nations."

It's not known the degree to which Morales, a Guatemalan immigrant to the United States, shares those principles.

But Morales was among, it appears, three current American officeholders  the others are Republican Reps. Paul Gosar of Arizona and Barry Moore of Alabama  to attend the CPAC event in Hungary and meet with Orban, whose moves toward authoritarianism and anti-LGBTQ policies have been condemned by other European leaders.

In a statement issued Monday, Indiana Democratic Party Chairman Mike Schmuhl chided Morales for hobnobbing overseas with "fringe" conservative political figures.

But Schmuhl also questioned Morales's commitment to his job as secretary of state by choosing to leave Indiana the same week as the first elections under his watch.

"What in the world is Diego Morales doing?" Schmuhl asked. "Indiana held municipal primary elections less than a week ago, military ballots are still arriving, and several races were incredibly close, yet Indiana's top election official decided to jet off to a political conference in Eastern Europe for a photo op with Viktor Orban."

Morales defeated Democrat Destiny Wells and Libertarian Jeff Maurer last year for a four-year term as secretary of state.

Gallery: Take a virtual tour of Indiana's state parks Brown County State Park Chain O' Lakes State Park Charlestown State Park Clifty Falls State Park Falls of the Ohio State Park Fort Harrison State Park Harmonie State Park Lincoln State Park McCormick's Creek State Park Mounds State Park O'Bannon Woods State Park Ouabache State Park Pokagon State Park Potato Creek State Park Prophetstown State Park Shades State Park Shakamak State Park Spring Mill State Park Summit Lake State Park Tippecanoe River State Park Turkey Run State Park Versailles State Park White River State Park Whitewater Memorial State Park
An essential state government office soon will be known by a new name.

Tucked deep inside the 263-page House Enrolled Act 1001, the two-year state budget signed into law last week by Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb, is a three sentence provision redesignating the auditor of state as the "state comptroller" for all public and legal purposes.

State Auditor Tera Klutz, who led the effort to alter her office's name, said she's grateful to the governor and the General Assembly for authorizing the change and, hopefully, finally clearing up the "common and frequent confusion as to what the office does."

"When our forefathers created the official position of auditor of state within the Indiana Constitution, they understood the importance of a balanced government. They created the treasurer of state to manage the cash and the auditor to issue warrants (checks) and report on state financial operations," said Klutz, a Republican.

"However, the term 'auditor' means something entirely different to people 200 years later."

She said Hoosiers often mistakenly assume that the duties of her office include auditing the finances of the state and local units of government, a task belonging to the State Board of Accounts; or auditing individual taxpayers, a duty of the Indiana Department of Revenue.

Klutz explained that her post is better described as a "comptroller," which in business generally is the executive in charge of overseeing accounting tasks and financial reporting.

"We balance the states checkbook, pay state employees, distribute tax dollars and provide year-end financial reporting, among other responsibilities  and this wont change," Klutz said.

Nineteen other states, including Illinois, already identify the person holding Klutz's role as their state comptroller, or state controller, and Klutz is glad Indiana is joining them in more accurately describing the position.

Under the law, the term state comptroller will replace state auditor for all state business, contracts, business cards, stationery and other means of communication beginning July 1.

The statute does not change the Indiana Constitution, so the state comptroller's official title will remain state auditor, just as Indiana's appointed secretary of education continues to hold the constitutional title of state superintendent of public instruction.

"The name change does not change the functionality of the office," Klutz said. "The state comptroller will continue with the same duties the office has had for more than 200 years."

Klutz is Indiana's 57th state auditor. She was reelected in November to a second and final four-year term.

The change to comptroller from auditor does not affect county auditors, even though their duties are similar to Klutz's on a local level.

Gallery: Get to know the state symbols of Indiana State Aircraft: Republic Aviation P-47 Thunderbolt State Bird: Cardinal State Flag State Flower: Peony State Fossil: Mastodon State Gun: Grouseland Rifle State Insect: Say's Firefly State Language: English State Motto: "Crossroads of America" State Nickname: The Hoosier State State Pie: Sugar Cream Pie (unofficial) State Poem: "Indiana" State River: Wabash State Seal State Snack: Indiana-Grown Popcorn State Song: "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away" State Stone: Limestone State Tree: Tulip tree
GARY  After a six-year battle, the only evidence of the Maya Energy LLC solid-waste plant is a "Coming Soon" sign behind a row of phragmites along 35th Avenue.

Over the years, the project has received ample pushback from Gary residents, elected officials, local educators, even the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Despite the opposition, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management approved Maya Energy's air permit renewal request last spring.

Now the city of Gary is taking the issue to court.

'Not in the business of stopping polluters'

In May 2017, the Gary Zoning Board approved zoning for a solid-waste processing facility at 2727 W. 35th Ave., according to Times reports. The project is being led by former East Chicago Councilman James Ventura.

According to Maya Energy's air permit, the facility will accept and process municipal waste and construction and demolition debris.

The state of Indiana should have never permitted a new polluting business that will truck tons of garbage from outside Gary into our community," Dorreen Carey said during an April 4 Common Council meeting. "We're not a dumping ground."

After first approving Maya's air permit in 2017, IDEM approved a permit renewal last April. Carey, who is a member of Gary Advocates for Responsible Development, and the city of Gary filed Petitions for Administrative Review of the renewal. The petitions were filed with the Indiana Office of Environmental Adjudication, or OEA, which acts as the ultimate authority to review IDEM decisions.

The city's petition hinged on several claims, including:

IDEM improperly calculated the facility's Volatile Organic Compound particulate emissions because emissions from trucks were not included.

IDEM did not give due consideration to comments on environmental justice.

The area is not a suitable location for a waste processing facility because of the nearby homes and school.

The Steel City Academy charter school is right across the street from the Maya property.

Carey's petition argued some of the same points as the city's and claimed that Maya Energy was not compliant with the permit because the company has failed to construct or operate the facility.

Usually when you get an air permit renewal, its based on how well you did during the time when you were operating," Carey told the Gary Air Pollution Committee at a April 26 meeting. "Since it never operated, how could you give it a renewal?

The OEA dismissed both petitions on March 15, saying neither contained facts demonstrating how they would be harmed by the permit renewal. The OEA decision also said that when issuing permits, IDEM is not required to evaluate proper zoning, account for mobile source emissions or consider environmental justice impacts.

Carey said she and GARD couldn't take the issue any further because they didn't have the resources to obtain legal counsel; however, the city has filed a petition for Judicial Review of the OEA's Final Order. The petition, filed April 14 with Lake Superior Court, is pending.

During the April 26 Gary Air Pollution Committee meeting, Councilwoman Lori Latham, D-at large, said many people think that as long as IDEM says its OK, that its safe. And that is not the case."

"We know that the purpose of IDEM is to issue permits," Latham said. "They are not in the business of stopping polluters."

'This would not be allowed in more affluent communities'

The city of Gary has been the victim of environmental racism by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management for decades," the city's petition for judicial review states.

According to the EPA's "Environmental Justice Screen" tool, much of Gary ranks in the highest percentiles in the country for cancer risk, asthma prevalence and low life expectancy.

A recent report also found that Northwest Indiana has some of the worst air pollution in the country. The study  conducted by the Guardian, the University of Washington and Virginia Tech  looked at fine particles of air pollution called PM 2.5. Emitted by industrial operations, vehicles and wildfires, PM 2.5 particles are small enough to make it into the deepest part of the lungs and into the bloodstream.

The report found that a central section of Indianapolis had the fifth-worst air pollution in the country, Northwest Indiana had the fourth-worst and Chicago's South and West sides have the third-worst. Neighborhoods in Los Angeles and Bakersfield, California, were listed second and first, respectively.

The Guardian report found that census tracts in Northwest Indiana with the highest amount of air pollution had 60% nonwhite populations. Gary's population is about 80% African American.

The city's petition for judicial review also noted that, compared with other communities in Lake County, Gary is home to the highest number of solid-waste facilities that have been issued permits by IDEM. Eight of the 17 Authorized Operating Solid Waste Facilities and Permitted Solid Waste Land Disposal and Processing Facilities in Lake County are in Gary.

The city's original OEA petition for review said the proposed facility would be 1,056-feet from the Steel City charter school.

"Why is it a project that is acceptable in Gary, and why is a project that is acceptable in Gary across from a school? This would not be allowed in more affluent communities. Our kids do not deserve that to be their school experience," Steel City Executive Director Katie Kirley told the Times during an interview last spring.

The Gary Common Council will consider a resolution supporting the city administration's opposition to the Maya project during its May 16 meeting.

During the April 26 Air Pollution Committee meeting, GARD member Jennifer Rudderham noted that the Maya property is owned by the Little Calumet River Basin Development Commission.

Maya is leasing the land from the commission.

Residents previously urged the commission to reconsider the lease; Rudderham said the Gary community should "put some pressure" on the commission.

For now, the solid-waste processing facility appears to be caught in a "Coming Soon" limbo.

PHOTOS: Indian Medical Association donates heating and cooling system to Gary homeless shelter Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper Indian Medical Association of Indiana gives new heating and cooling system to the Brothers Keeper
Mauricio Garcia, 33, was named as the shooter who killed 8 people at a mall in suburban Dallas on Saturday. Reports say Garcia was a far-right white supremacist latino and wore a "Right Wing Death Squad" patch on his chest.

No official motivation for the killings has been given by police, but sources told the newspaper that Garcia had an "RWDS" patch on his chest, which stands for "Right Wing Death Squad". The phrase is popular with neo-Nazis, white supremacists and right-wing extremists, the newspaper reported. Garcia, who was wearing black body armour during his attack, was also shot and killed by police after the shocking incident unfolded. Seven people died at the scene and two more were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, Allen Fire Department chief Jonathan Boyd told reporters on Saturday night.

It struck me how anxious some outlets are about reporting that this guy was far-right latino, at least compared to how breathlessly and recklessly identities are usually reported in mass shooting reports. It's not an uncommon combination.
MICHIGAN CITY  A divided City Council is heading to a showdown on a controversial ordinance that would require inspections of rental properties every three years.

The council is set to consider the ordinance at its meeting next week.

Council members Paul Przybylinski, Tracie Tillman and Gene Simmons voiced their opposition to the proposed ordinance.

This is to protect our tenants, said Councilwoman Dalia Zygas, D-at large, who is the ordinances sponsor. This is to make sure that all living units meet minimum living standards, and most of the landlords will have no trouble with this.

However, the council heard from a string of landlords upset with the proposal.

I will continue to contest this until the very end, landlord Ernie Hollihan said. If I have to sell those houses, I will, because I am not putting up with it.

With this ordinance, youll be setting yourself up for lawsuits, Lorraine Mannion said. We landlords provide low-income housing to the low-income renter. If there are fewer landlords to provide this kind of housing already in short supply, there will be fewer rental properties available to the low-income segment, which in large part are people of color. The net effect is essentially discriminatory and racist.

Alicia Ortiz of Portage said she represented Indiana real estate investors and is involved in affordable-housing issues. Milwaukee just lost 20% of its affordable housing over similar efforts, she said. Youre interfering with landlord-tenant relationships.

Bill Schuerman asked why short-term rentals arent included in the ordinance. People using these homes arent familiar with the building, so they arent familiar with all the safety factors, such as where smoke detectors are.

Brett Carney said he owns and manage about 80 units in Michigan City as well as properties elsewhere. He complimented the building and fire departments but was critical of the proposed ordinance.

I just think maybe there are a few bad seeds here or landlords that don't do what they need to do," he said. "But I feel like instead of addressing those, you guys are putting us all in one big bowl, which I don't think is fair.

George Ladonne said there are properties that, even looking at them from the road, are clearly in violation of city codes, and there are already ordinances in place to address them.

Kenneth Fly is on the Michigan City Housing Authority. The agency is quick to put people out but slow to put people in homes, he said. He favors requiring inspections of rentals, including ones not under his agencys control.

You do need to have some accountability of keeping your units up, he said.

Fire Marshal Jeff Bruder fully supports the proposal: If you're a responsible landlord, there's really nothing to worry about. You keep your properties up and that's that's a good thing, that's good for everybody. If you have a good relationship with your tenant, that's even better."

We've heard a lot from the landlords, their perspective, Angie Henzman said. I have rented in Michigan City for nearly 15 years, and I can tell you that there are many people in Michigan City who are not being heard that would love to see more accountability.

Some people are forced to live without water or electricity as retribution from their landlords for complaining about their living conditions, she said.
Humane Indiana Wildlife Director Nicole Harmon dispelled the myth that animal mothers will reject their babies if theyre handled by humans.

Its OK to pick up the baby to see if its healthy, she said, but be aware that handling the animal adds to the stress level. Excessive handling could even lead an animal to have a heart attack.

Thats just one piece of the advice she gave during a Northwest Indiana Green Drinks virtual meeting on assisting wildlife.

Spring is not only migratory season, it's baby season. Every species right now that is hanging out here for the summer is getting ready to build nests or laying eggs or having babies and moving around our community, Harmon said. And we know that in an area of Indiana that is so densely populated, there's going to be a lot of conflict.

Wildlife rehabilitation centers and individual rehabilitators are a great second option, but Mom is always the best one, she said.

Rehabilitation is advised for injured wildlife. When it comes to animal babies, though, sometimes its difficult to decide whether to call for help.

The No. 1 species that we get in at the rehabilitation center every single season, every year that I've been here, has been Eastern cottontails, she said. Last year we took in over 900 cottontails, a high percentage of the total number of animals taken in.

A lot of those could be avoided. The reason that cottontails come into our care is because they have conflicts with our domestic pets, whether they're cats or dogs, or conflicts with lawn equipment. I mean, you don't check your backyard and you go and you run your mower and all of a sudden, like today, bunnies shoot out from a nest and scatter all over the place because they get scared by the noise.

Predatory crows can be a problem, too.

But baby bunnies that appear to be orphans might not be. Just because Moms not there on the nest doesnt mean the babies are abandoned. Moms only visit the nest twice a day: very early in the morning, before sunrise, and late at night, after dusk.

If you have dogs, Moms not going to visit the next until your dogs go inside for the last time. Theyre very observant animals, Harmon said.

There are some ways to see whether an animal mom is coming around. I've heard of people laying yarn across the nest or laying sticks across the nest, Harmon said. The trick with that is, that means mom then has to disturb those things. A mom might not disturb the sticks or yarn, or something else might disturb it.

I've heard people using flour, and I think that's a really great way to check because mom's going to have to walk through that, right? So we put a nice ring of flour around that nest and we can see whether something has tracked through it, she said. But the flour could be disturbed by a different kind of animal.

I've had a lot of people actually using their Ring doorbells, which I think is genius, she said. The doorbell video can determine whether the mother has come around in recent days. This is perfect. That's the proof that we need.

Harmon displayed a baby bunny taken into the shelter that same day. You can see she's nice and plump. She's got a nice round belly. When we pinched the nape of her fur, it snaps back down, and so we don't have to worry about thinking that she's dehydrated. This is a bunny who's a nice healthy size, nice healthy weight. She would have been OK.

Another bunny looked skinny, and the bones could easily be felt.

What I generally tell people, especially with the smaller ones, is to take these guys and flip them over, Harmon said. If theyre being nursed, you can see milk in their stomach.

If youre concerned about animals like dogs or cats getting the wildlife, one trick is to turn a rectangular laundry basket upside down and put a cinder block or heavy bricks on top to keep it from being tipped over.

If a cat has carried the animal in its mouth, thats an immediate concern. There are a lot of outdoor cats in our area and we know this, but the bacteria in a cat's mouth is so potent that, without treatment of an antibiotic, 95% of animals will die just from a small interaction, she said. Animals covered in slobber need to be taken to a wildlife rehabilitation center.
The Indiana Court of Appeals is the winner of the prestigious 2023 Sandra Day O'Connor Award for the Advancement of Civics Education from the National Center for State Courts (NCSC).

The award, named for the first female U.S. Supreme Court justice, recognizes entities or individuals who have promoted, inspired, improved, or led an innovation or accomplishment in the field of civics education related to the justice system.

In this case, the Court of Appeals was honored for its "Appeals on Wheels" program that brings oral arguments before the court's three-judge panels directly to Hoosiers by holding the hearings at schools, community centers and other locations generally more accessible than the Indiana Statehouse.

Records show the appellate court has held more than 650 traveling oral arguments since 2000, including recent sessions at Andrean High School in Merrillville, Avalon Manor in Hobart, Morton High School in Hammond, Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City, and Portage High School.

"It is refreshing to see an entire court so committed to advancing civics education for as many years as the Court of Appeals of Indiana," said NCSC President Mary McQueen. "Their program is an excellent example of meeting people where theyre at to increase public understanding of the justice system."

Court of Appeals Chief Judge Robert Altice Jr. said the court is grateful its longstanding Appeals on Wheels program is being recognized on a national level.

"Here in Indiana, we know that an educated, civically minded public is fundamental to good government and just results. We look forward to continuing to expand the courts outreach and providing experiential, inquiry-based learning opportunities to Hoosiers, who deserve to see their judiciary working for them," Altice said.

The award officially will be presented to the Court of Appeals this summer during the annual meeting of the Conference of Chief Justices and Conference of State Court Administrators.

PHOTOS: Appeals on wheels Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Appeals on Wheels comes to Andrean High School Gallery HTML code
(In fairness to the bot, it also said several times that work dress codes can vary, and that if I was unsure about mine, I should check with a supervisor or H.R. department.)

I started asking about other types of clothing that Ive worn in the workplace. When I described the midthigh-length dress I wore a few years ago for my job interview at The Times, the chatbot was not impressed. A midthigh dress may distract the interviewers attention and draw focus away from your skills and qualifications as a candidate, the chatbot warned me. I guess I wont be hired at its company anytime soon?

When I changed my age, the chatbot suggested different types of outfits. A 21-year-old woman should wear a statement dress, like a sequined mini, to her birthday party, it said. A 29-year-old woman celebrating her birthday, however, should try a chic jumpsuit, and a 58-year-old woman should wear a knee-length shift dress in a classic print, like polka dots or stripes.

The outfit for the 21-year-old, according to the chatbot, would let the wearer be the center of attention on your special day, while the older ages elicited outfits that would help you feel confident and stylish on your special day. (At least it was still a special day no matter how old you are turning  just not sequin-level special.)

I started asking questions about situations Id been in where I wore something that went against the norm. Was it appropriate to wear a white dress to a wedding as part of the wedding party, something I did a few months ago?

Its best to avoid wearing white to a wedding as a guest or as part of the wedding party, as this color is traditionally reserved for the bride, the chatbot said. It suggested that if I really wanted to wear white, I should check with the bride to see if it would be OK. Which, had I asked this question before the wedding, would have been tricky  there were no brides at this particular wedding, just grooms.
A Phoenix First Must Burn: Sixteen Stories of Black Girl Magic, Resistance, and Hope, edited by Patrice Caldwell

I must admit, this recommendation is a bit of a cheat. Instead of a single novel, it is an anthology with 16 different stories from which to choose. Gathered in the spirit of Octavia Butlers expansive body of work, the collection touches on Black culture, folk tales and fantasies, with stories pulling in lived experiences alongside speculative imaginings. What I love most is the concentrated, multivocal assertion that Black women and gender nonconforming folks are so multifaceted that they are, in fact, infinite.

Tracy Deonn is the Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe Award-winning author of Legendborn and its sequel, Bloodmarked.
This article contains spoilers for Episode 7 of the final season of Succession.

Its election eve in the world of Succession, and the Roys are jockeying for position. Kendall and Roman ramp up their efforts to stop the Matsson deal, and Shiv and Tom host the tailgate party with Logans preordained guest list. A sampling of the countrys most influential politicians, officials and thought leaders descend on Shivs triplex to snack on American flag sliders, drink Champagne, talk money and gossip.

This AOL era, legacy media, putrid stuffed-mushroom fest, as Matsson calls it, even has an electoral party game with a kettle corn prize. Matsson stuns in a golden bomber jacket, but Tom may be the quiet style star of the night.

Guy Trebay: Can anyone tell me what Matssons bizarre bomber was made of?

Stella Bugbee: Confidence.

GT: Fur confidence or velvet confidence?
I do realize that this is all out of control, she said. Im not totally against gun control, but theyre trying to control it for the wrong people. Youve got to keep the guns out the hands of the criminals. She said better background checks could be an answer.

Gregory K. Taggart, a firearms trainer at Texas Legends, a gun range in Allen near where the latest shooting occurred, echoed Governor Abbott when he said that mental health needed to be considered in any analysis of recent gun violence. Guns have been around forever. Mass shootings have not been, Mr. Taggart said. My first question would be, Why do we have mass shootings now? I think our society is breaking down.

Restricting guns is not the answer, he added. When people talk about drunk driving, do they say, Lets ban cars?

Part of the reason Republicans in Texas may not feel political pressure on the issue is the states recent electoral history. The Uvalde shooting took place during a hard-fought governors race between Mr. Abbott, running for a third term, and Beto ORourke, a former Democratic congressman who campaigned for some of the same gun control proposals that have recently been before the legislature. Mr. Abbott won by a wide margin.

Last month, relatives of victims in Uvalde traveled to the State Capitol to testify on behalf of the bill to raise the age for buying an AR-15-style rifle. The fact that a committee in the Republican-controlled House even agreed to listen to them had felt to them like a kind of victory.

Then they waited for hours for their turn to speak. They were finally called in after 10 p.m., about 13 hours after they arrived at the Capitol that morning.

Im reminded of May 24, 2022, when we waited hours to be told our daughter would never come home, Kimberly Rubio told the committee through tears, speaking of her daughter Lexie, who was killed in the shooting. I expressed confusion then, and Im perplexed now. Did you think we would go home?

Mary Beth Gahan , Remy Tumin , Claire Fahy and Lauren McCarthy contributed reporting.
As King Charles III was crowned in Westminster Abbey on Saturday, Hugo Burnand, a British photographer, waited in Buckingham Palaces glittering Throne Room for the most important moment of his career.

The royal household had commissioned Burnand, 59, to take the official portraits of the newly crowned monarch  to create images that every newspaper in the world clamor to publish, and that art historians rush to analyze.

Yet given the coronations complex schedule, Burnand would have limited time to do it.

On Monday, the royal family released the results of Burnands short session with the newly crowned king, queen and other members of Britains monarchy, giving royal watchers worldwide a chance to judge whether Burnand had lived up to the commission.

In Burnands pictures, King Charles III is depicted sitting forward in full regalia, holding the Sovereigns Orb, a hollow gold globe made in the 17th century and decorated with a large cross, as well as the Sovereigns Scepter. The two items represent the kings authority and power.
Butlers appointment marks her return to New York and to MoMA, where she was chief curator of drawings from 2006 to 2013. She also has extensive experience with MoMA PS1, having served as part of the curatorial team for its Greater New York exhibition in 2010 and co-organized major traveling shows, including WACK! Art and the Feminist Revolution (2008), which had its debut at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles; Now Dig This! Art and Black Los Angeles 1960-1980 (2012), which opened at the Hammer Museum; and Mike Kelley (2013)  originally organized by the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam  for MoMA PS1.

Plainly put, the Mike Kelley retrospective, fresh from Europe to MoMA PS1, knocks everything else in New York this fall right out of the ring, Holland Cotter wrote in his New York Times review.

At the Hammer, Butler built on her experience with Greater New York by working on Made in L.A., an important biennial that started in 2012 and highlights artists throughout the greater Los Angeles area.

They are aligned in spirit, Butler said of the two exhibitions, adding that both have become critical to each of their communities.

At MoMA PS1, Butler succeeds Kate Fowle, who resigned last summer after a brief three-year tenure that was complicated by the pandemic. Fowle focused on outreach to neighboring Queens communities, emphasizing social justice issues and giving the museum a website independent of MoMAs.
I also feel like it was an important moment to give King some of his teeth and claws back. Because everything he said, everything he warned us about, has come true. He warned us that we were slipping into this more segregated society, especially in the North. He warned us about income inequality, he warned us about police brutality and incarceration, and we couldnt handle it. Were still not handling it very well.

Your interview subjects memories of King must also be affected by the mythology that surrounds him. How do you sift through that?

There are several people who swear they were on the podium at the March on Washington and they heard Mahalia Jackson say, Tell em about the dream, Martin, and then King pivoted and decided to go into the dream motif, and I dont think that happened at all.

I think that King went into the dream part of the speech and then Mahalia Jackson said, Tell em about the dream. She was echoing him. So you have to watch out for people whose memories change over time. Thats human nature, we all do that.

Its a great blessing to have living witnesses to speak to, and that I found dozens of people who knew King is one of the great joys and honors of my career, my life. But you still have to be a little skeptical.
BIOGRAPHY

The first major study of Hoover in decades complicates his legacy, urging readers to see the former longtime F.B.I. director in greater focus. This is a humanizing biography, our critic Jennifer Szalai wrote, an acknowledgment of the complexities that made Hoover who he was, while also charting the turbulent currents that eventually swept him aside.

Viking

Biography finalist: His Name is George Floyd, by Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa

Two Washington Post journalists offer a thoughtful and nuanced study of Floyds life and of his killing by the police in 2020. As our reviewer E. Peniel Joseph wrote, Throughout, we get the portrait of a flawed man trying to come to terms with diminished dreams, one whose muscular physical exterior hid a gentle soul who battled pain, anxiety, claustrophobia and depression. (This title won a Pulitzer Prize this year for nonfiction.)

Viking

Biography finalist: Mr. B: George Balanchines 20th Century, by Jennifer Homans

This book is a sensitive portrait of George Balanchine, the Russian-born choreographer whose profound influence on ballet is still felt today. Our critic Dwight Garner said the book was a serious act of cultural retrieval, by a writer who knows when to expand and when to collapse, who makes unexpected connections, and who knows when her subject pinches, borrows or steals.

Random House
Texas shaken by mass shootings

Thirteen people have been killed in mass shootings in Texas in the past two weeks. The mass murders have fueled a new openness to gun regulation among some Texans, but Republican lawmakers have shown no interest in taking action to address the violence.

In fact, Texas has increased access to guns during the past two years even as the state endured more than a dozen mass killings, including a shooting at a school in Uvalde, where a gunman killed 19 children and two adults. The state did away with its permit requirements to carry handguns. It also lowered the age to carry handguns to 18 from 21.

While less supportive of stricter gun regulation than Americans as a whole, Texans support some limited gun control measures, polls show. Over the past few years views on guns among Republican voters in Texas have appeared to moderate somewhat.

But Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, said that there would be no new effort by his administration to limit access to firearms, because it would not work.
By midyear, all of Morgan Stanleys thousands of wealth advisers are expected to have access to a new artificial-intelligence-powered chat tool.

The tool, which is already in use by about 600 staff members, gives advisers answers to questions such as Can you compare the investment cases for Apple, IBM and Microsoft? and follow-ups such as What are the risks of each of them? An adviser can ask what to do if a client has a potentially valuable painting  and the knowledge tool might provide a list of steps to follow, along with the name of an internal expert who can help.

What were trying to do is make every client or every financial adviser as smart as the most knowledgeable expert on any given topic in real time, said Jeff McMillan, the head of analytics, data and innovation for Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.

Experts disagree about whether A.I. will wind up destroying more jobs than it creates over time. But it is clear that A.I. will alter work for most knowledge workers, shifting the skills they need and changing the staffing needs of most companies. Now its up to business leaders to figure out how to take advantage of the technologies today, while preparing workers for the disruption that the tools present over the medium term.
One of the best moments in John Archibalds life came in 2018, when he won a Pulitzer Prize for columns published by Alabama Media Group, the largest news publisher in the state.

He topped that on Monday. Mr. Archibald won a second prize, for local reporting, as part of a team of journalists that included his son, Ramsey Archibald, investigating a municipal police force.

I feel stunned, Mr. Archibald, 60, said in an interview as the win was announced. Its a great honor. And to do it with your kid  Im telling you, thats gold.

AL.coms four-person team  which also included the investigative editors Ashley Remkus and Challen Stephens  took home one of the two Pulitzer Prizes won on Monday by Alabama Media Group, an astounding feat for a newsroom with roughly 110 journalists. The organization also won the commentary prize for columns by Kyle Whitmire, a political columnist who examined how Alabamas Confederate history still affects the state today.
An Alabama news website, AL.com, received two Pulitzer Prizes. The organization was awarded the local news reporting prize for a series by John Archibald, Ashley Remkus, Ramsey Archibald and Challen Stephens that revealed how the police force in a town, Brookside, inflated its revenue by aggressively increasing traffic citations and vehicle seizures.

AL.com also won the commentary prize for columns by Kyle Whitmire, a political columnist whose examination of Alabamas Confederate history shows how it still colors the present with racism and exclusion, told through tours of its first capital, its mansions and monuments  and through the history that has been omitted, the Pulitzer board said in its announcement.

Another prize for local reporting was awarded to Anna Wolfe of Mississippi Today, for an investigation into a $77 million welfare scandal that revealed how former Mississippi governor, Phil Bryant, had steered funds to benefit family and friends, including the former N.F.L. quarterback Brett Favre.

The Los Angeles Times won the breaking news reporting prize for its coverage of a leaked audio recording of a secret conversation between Los Angeles City Council members in which the officials mocked people in racist terms and disparaged other council members. The uproar prompted the resignations of two of the leaders involved: Nury Martinez, the City Council president, and Ron Herrera, the president of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor.

The Los Angeles Times also won in the feature photography category. The photojournalist Christina House was awarded the prize for her images of a pregnant 22-year-old woman living in a tent on the streets of Hollywood and trying to navigate her situation.
Last summer, Joe Loree made an appointment to see his urologist. Hed occasionally noticed blood in his urine and wanted to have that checked out. His doctor ordered a prostate-specific antigen, or P.S.A., test to measure a protein in his blood that might indicate prostate cancer  or a number of more benign conditions.

It came back somewhat elevated, said Mr. Loree, 68, an instructional designer who lives in Berkeley, Calif. A biopsy found a few cancer cells, a minuscule amount, he recalled.

Mr. Loree was at very low risk, but nobody likes hearing the c-word. Its unsettling to think theres cancer growing within me, he said.

But because his brother and a friend had both been diagnosed with prostate cancer and had undergone aggressive treatment that he preferred to avoid, Mr. Loree felt comfortable with a more conservative approach called active surveillance.
In recent weeks, city officials have approached major landlords, business leaders, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in an effort to find spaces large enough to house substantial numbers of migrants from the southern border.

By Friday, a Trump-era immigration policy called Title 42 is set to expire. The ostensible purpose of the policy was to protect public health, but it has been used to expel hundreds of thousands of migrants from the country, including those who might formerly have been granted asylum. The end of the policy is expected to spur cross-border migration, eventually affecting New York City.

New York City is the only major U.S. city with a right-to-shelter law. As of Wednesday evening, 61,000 migrants have come to the city in the past year, according to City Hall officials. Over 37,500 of them are now in city care at more than 120 emergency shelters and eight larger-scale centers.

The city is now scrambling to make room for even more.

Late Sunday afternoon, Mayor Eric Adamss chief of staff, Camille Joseph Varlack, gave the head of every city agency until 5 p.m. Monday to identify any properties or spaces in your portfolio that may be available to be repurposed to house asylum seekers as temporary shelter spaces, according to a copy of an email acquired by The Times. Those spaces should be at least 10,000 square feet in size, contain no known health hazards and have running water.

Mr. Adams underscored the urgency of the problem, telling agency leaders in a meeting Monday afternoon to alert his staff about any suitable space, even if those spaces currently hosted programs.
It has become commonplace to perceive Vladimir Putin as reverting to Soviet ways. So it seemed natural, shortly after the Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested in Russia, that when I ran into a woman Id known in Moscow back in the Soviet days, I lamented that things were more and more as they had been in those bad old days.

No, she said, theyre worse.

She had been a rebel and had left Moscow as soon as she was able to, so I was struck by her response. But Ive heard it from other Russians as well, both those who live inside and outside the country. And the more I look back on my days as a reporter in Soviet and post-Soviet Russia, and the longer the terrible savaging of Ukraine continues, the more I understand what they mean.

In light of what their country is inflicting on Ukraine, it is difficult to speak of Russians as victims. That, in fact, may be one major reason many decent Russians feel that Mr. Putins Russia  their Russia  is worse than the Soviet state whose demise he laments. They had thought their nation free of the horrible tyranny of its past, and Mr. Putin is not only reviving that but also bringing shame and alienation to their nation.

The Soviet Union that these Russians hark back to is the one in its final years, not Stalins hell. In their time, the 1970s and early 1980s, the Soviet Union was still a repressive police state that maintained a jealous and iron control on information, art, enterprise and just about every other human endeavor. It was a far more intrusive level of repression than Mr. Putin and his security apparatus could ever replicate, given the reach of the internet and the continuing ability of Russians to travel abroad. No old Soviet dissident would deny that the physical quality of life in Russia is far higher than it was in those spartan times.
To the Editor:

Re A New Massacre, but Texas Shuns Gun Restraints (front page, May 8):

Once again, the nation is traumatized by senseless killings by a man using an assault weapon  this time, of eight innocent shoppers at an Allen, Texas, outlet mall. Once again, Gov. Greg Abbott issued a statement after a mass shooting, saying, Our hearts are with the people of Allen, Texas, tonight during this unspeakable tragedy.

Time after time we hear about thoughts and prayers after mass killings. At no time in the past two decades has there been any meaningful gun control legislation in this country to curtail such tragedies.

The assault weapon and large-capacity magazine ban was the law of the land from 1994 to 2004. Data shows that during that period there was a decrease in mass killings by weapons of war. The data also shows that since the expiration of the ban, there has been a significant increase in mass killings with assault weapons.

Proponents of gun rights often comment that a good guy with a gun is how to stop a bad guy with a gun. That is simply not true as proven by what has occurred in Texas since the legislature there enacted an open-carry law that took effect in 2016.
Scorpions are dreaded and reviled for good reason. A remarkably aggressive predator, the scorpion has a bad habit of killing and feeding on its young. And when it comes to love, scorpion mating is one of the nastiest affairs in nature:

Males and females engage in lengthy and violent waltzes, moving to and fro, to and fro, front legs gripping front legs, mouthparts locked together and tails whipping forward, as the male repeatedly stings the female and the female thrashes about, seemingly furious at being dragged around, a Times article once put it. Afterward, the female often kills and devours her partner.

A dead scorpion, one might conclude, is not the best gift to offer your special someone. But in Sunday nights episode of Succession, a glass-encased scorpion wrapped in a crimson box  a little party prezzie for being such a hot piece of ass  is precisely what Tom bequeaths Shiv, shortly after theyve brought their marriage back from the brink of an eviscerating divorce.

Whos the scorpion? she asks.

You, he replies. I love you, but you kill me, and I kill you.

Marriage is where Succession hits viewers the closest. We may never enter a corporate boardroom or fly in a private jet, but most of us enter private mergers of our own. In marriage, we experience the interwoven layers of truth and lies that can hold a union together or wedge a couple apart, however devastating either way.

And marriage is the theme of this weeks episode  one of the best in the four-season series. (Be forewarned: Some spoilers ahead.) It shows the marriage of Shiv and Tom plunge from workplace sexting to brooding in separate beds in the same cavernous apartment. The former marriage of Kendall and Rava tumbles from co-parenting detente to shouting match. The unlikely marriage of Connor and Willa endures under the mutual recognition of his submission and her domination. And the impending marriage of creaky Waystar Royco and futuristic Nordic GoJo hangs in the balance. In a show in which people rarely say what they really believe and dont believe what they say they believe, this episode hinges on the lies that keep people bound together and the truths that drive them apart.
What to know about the week ahead

ACV Auctions will report its first-quarter earnings on Wednesday, after the market closes.

KeyBank will hold its annual shareholders meeting, in a virtual-only format, at 8:30 a.m. Thursday.

The state Office of Cannabis Management Control Board will meet at 11 a.m. Thursday in New York City and stream the meeting in real time from a link at Cannabis.ny.gov.

Buffalo Employment and Training Center will hold its spring job fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, 153 Franklin St. There will be more than 100 employers in attendance.

The Small Business Administration disaster loan outreach center will wrap up its operations at 4 p.m. Friday at the Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave. The center has been helping applicants with SBA loans related to the December blizzard. The SBA will continue to provide assistance at 1-800-659-2955 and at sba.gov/disaster.

THE LATEST

Doug Jemal is buying a historic inn.

More apartments and commercial space is planned for the former Millard Fillmore Gates Circle site.

The merger of Medaille and Trocaire will lead to job cuts.

One of the first Starbucks stores to unionize now has a decertification campaign.

National Fuel's CEO doesn't see a big impact from the state's new energy law.

Two local Jenny Craig centers are closing.

Rite Aid is closing three Buffalo Niagara stores.

The plan to raise the minimum wage in New York includes some escape hatches.

Some jobs are likely to remain at Life Storage's Amherst office.

The state budget includes new ways to crack down on illegal pot shops.

The plan to add to Samuel's Grande Manor is changing.

A group that is critical of unions is using billboards to target Workers United.

A project to revamp the former Truck-Lite factory in Falconer is getting tax breaks.

A coalition of community groups continues to criticize KeyBank's community investment initiatives.

ICYMI

Five reads from Buffalo Next:

1. How shopping has changed. These five trends are affecting consumers everywhere.

2. Part carnival, part sports: How the Buffalo Bandits turned a second-tier professional sport into a fan favorite.

3. The next war on weed: How unlicensed marijuana stores threaten to upend the state's legal cannabis retail program.

4. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has paid $4.67 million to settle six discrimination lawsuits.

5. Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center hired a law firm to investigate accusations of racism. It wants to keep the report secret.

The Buffalo Next team gives you the big picture on the regions economic revitalization. Email tips to buffalonext@buffnews.com or reach Buffalo Next Editor David Robinson at 716-849-4435.

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The mailbox that most breaks my heart is the one where the red and black bow is hanging just behind a new pink bow. In the weeks since the shooting, that family has welcomed a new baby girl.

The whole tableau of our national tragedy is visible on that mailbox: a family mourning other families children while simultaneously welcoming a new child of their own. Could anything be more American? The belief in the possibility of new life even as reminders of the ceaseless, senseless loss of life are everywhere around us?

And yet, despite the reminders, despite the gun violence that erupts every single day in communities nearby and far away, I am feeling more hopeful than I have ever felt. We are not yet in a safer place with guns, but this time the whole tenor of the conversation is different here in the red states. Surely, we have finally reached a tipping point. Surely, this time our elected officials are closer to doing something to keep us safe.

People in power do not willingly hear the objections of those they are subjugating, but sometimes they can be shamed. Sometimes, they can be overwhelmed by public sentiment, and we are fighting here in Tennessee.

I wish you could have seen the crowds demanding sensible gun legislation and supporting the Democratic representatives Justin Jones, Gloria Johnson and Justin J. Pearson, who weeks ago defied Republicans to demand gun reform from the House floor. Day upon day during the final weeks of the legislative session, the crowds were there, filling the statehouse halls and grounds.
A new genus of butterfly, with dark, eye-like spots on its distinctive orange wings, has been named after Sauron, the arch-villain of J.R.R. Tolkiens fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, whose gaze lingers malevolently over the lands of Middle-earth.

An international team of scientists identified two species in the new genus  Saurona triangula and Saurona aurigera  but said there were most likely more, the Natural History Museum in London announced on Sunday.

Blanca Huertas, the senior curator of butterflies at the museum, helped name the genus, which is one of nine new ones described by the researchers in a paper in the most recent issue of the journal Systematic Entomology.

The practice of naming new species after celebrities, fictional characters and others has a long history, and giving these butterflies an unusual name helps to draw attention to this underappreciated group, Dr. Blanca said. It shows that, even among a group of very similar-looking species, you can find beauty among the dullness.
Stanley Deser, a theoretical physicist who helped illuminate the details of gravity and how it shapes the space-time fabric of the universe, died on April 21 in Pasadena, Calif. He was 92.

His death, at a hospital, was confirmed by his daughter, Abigail Deser.

Physicists have long dreamed of devising a theory of everything  a set of equations that neatly and completely describe how the universe works. By the middle of the 20th century, they had come up with two theories that serve as the pillars of modern physics: quantum mechanics and general relativity.

Quantum mechanics describes how, in the subatomic realm, everything is broken up in discrete chunks, or quanta, such as the individual particles of light called photons. Albert Einsteins theory of general relativity had elegantly captured how mass and gravity bend the fabric of space-time.

However, these two pillars did not fit together. General relativity does not contain any notion of quanta; a quantum theory of gravity is an ambition that remains unfinished today.
Three days after his fall 2023 runway show in February, while on his way to meet Omar Apollo at a photographers house in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, the 55-year-old fashion designer Willy Chavarria studied the 25-year-old musicians Wikipedia page. What Chavarria lacked in detailed knowledge about Apollos career, he made up for with an immediate paternal tenderness. Each detail Apollo revealed about himself during their afternoon together  from his recent Grammy nomination for best new artist to his middle name, Apolonio (also the title of his 2020 mixtape)  drew oohs and aahs from Chavarria, a senior vice president at Calvin Klein and the founder of his own namesake line.

Apollo, a native of Lake Station, Ind., who first found success on Spotify, was more familiar with Chavarria, whose garments  chinos with exaggerated proportions, mourning gowns reimagined as nylon sportswear  reflect the soulful romance of Apollos own falsetto-inflected songs. And on all-Latino models, Apollo says. We dont often see that. For the presentation of his religiously ornate spring 2023 collection, at Manhattans Marble Collegiate Church this past September, Chavarria exclusively featured models of color in lush fabrics and dramatic silhouettes.

A few days later, Apollo would perform his music, a mix of Latin-infused soul and R&B, on a North American tour as SZAs opening act; Chavarria hadnt yet come down from his triumphant fall 2023 show, staged at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, which had awarded him the 2022 National Design Award for fashion. And yet the pair saw eye to eye on more than just success. Some similarities were obvious: Both are gay and Mexican American, and both were born in small towns where dreams of artistic stardom seemed impossibly distant. Others, like the way each came out to his religious mother during an intimate car ride, connected them further, leading Chavarria to suggest that a deeper involvement in each others lives would be good in a lot of ways.

Following a photo shoot that felt more like a family portrait session, Chavarria and Apollo spoke at length about faith, tokenism and how to balance swagger with vulnerability.
Kevin and I share an obsession with international festivals. His impulse is to capture portraits, mine is to listen and learn. But wherever we go, Kevin and I tend to fixate on the faces.

At El Rocio, no faces were closed to outsiders. We were invited into caravans; told to sit and eat stew and sliced watermelon; dragged into flamenco dances; and instructed to take a siesta after lunch in the grass  otherwise wed never survive until Sunday, one participant told us. No one we encountered was reluctant to be interviewed or photographed. Everyone seemed to accept that El Rocio is a spectacle. Our amazement and curiosity was received as a sign of respect.

We joined the caravans in the muddy waters at Quema, a ford in the Guadiamar River, a tributary of the Guadalquivir. In the town of Villamanrique de la Condesa, every restaurant and bar was spilling over with spectators. (El Rocio is televised like a sporting event throughout Spain.)

By Friday night, the first of the hermandades arrived in El Rocio, a tiny town that reminded me of Western movie sets Ive seen in California and Arizona. Its character is entirely shaped by the pilgrimage; the more prominent hermandades  like Huelva, with its 10,0000 pilgrims  own huge boardinghouses at the edge of town, with convent-like rooms and vast communal dining and dancing areas. The smaller hermandades just look for short-term rentals. Even with our beginners Spanish, we were ushered inside a whitewashed house and given beer, chunks of manchego cheese and slices of cured ham. It struck me that most Spanish culinary staples are essentially pilgrim food: controlled decay turned into a delicacy.
BROWNSVILLE, Texas  At first Yohonny Miratriz heard a deafening roar as he and two friends walked on Sunday morning near the shelter where they had spent the night before.

Then he felt the road tremble beneath him. He turned around to see the gray sport utility vehicle, already on its side, skidding toward him, its horn seemingly stuck in a cacophony of alarm, as the vehicle bore down on him and his friends who had made the long dangerous trek from Venezuela to the Texas border.

I had time to think, do I jump forward or backward? Mr. Miratriz recalled on Monday. Which way would give me a better chance at survival? He decided to dive head first and felt the sharp sting of the trucks nose strike his left leg, he said. At first it didnt hurt. I was in shock, but then the pain came rushing, he said a day later, still limping. How did I survive? I think only God knows.

A day after the S.U.V., driven by a Brownsville man, George Alvarez, plowed through a group of migrants, killing eight people, much remains uncertain about the tragedy  most important, whether the crash was intentional.
Californias reservoirs are filled to the brim. Our snowpack is epic. And, in what feels like a near-miraculous turn of events, less than 8 percent of the state is still considered to be in a drought.

Another perk of this water bounty: The two biggest water systems that send clean water throughout California will both, for the first time in nearly two decades, deliver all of the water requested by cities, farms and businesses. This is great news for a state that was mired in extreme drought and struggling to survive off reduced water supplies for years.

I think everybody is thrilled, said Laura Ramos, interim director of research and education at the California Water Institute at Cal State Fresno.

Why do these water systems matter?

As youre well aware, it doesnt rain equally across California. So the state has storage and conveyance systems that capture water in its precipitation-blessed far north and northeast regions and transport it through a series of reservoirs, dams, rivers and aqueducts to the rest of the state.
President Biden is set to welcome Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other top congressional leaders to the White House on Tuesday for a pivotal round of discussions about the nations taxes, spending and debt as a potentially catastrophic government default rapidly approaches.

The talks come just weeks before the United States is expected to run out of cash to pay its bills unless the nations borrowing cap is lifted. Like previous moments of brinkmanship, the discussions have echoes of 2011 and 2013, when congressional Republicans refused to raise the debt ceiling unless a Democratic president agreed to curb federal spending and reduce budget deficits. The same dynamic is at play now, but with a crucial difference: The parties share almost no common ground on tax and spending proposals that are meant to reduce the growth of the nations $31.4 trillion debt.

The meeting is not expected to produce anything close to final agreement on a fiscal plan that could include raising the debt limit. But even small points of consensus could be hard to come by.

Mr. Biden wants to expand federal spending and reduce future debt, largely by raising taxes on high earners and large companies. Republicans have passed a bill to cut federal discretionary spending  a category that includes national parks, education and more  and cancel tax breaks for certain low-emission energy sources that were part of Mr. Bidens signature climate law. Republicans have promised to extend the 2017 tax cuts that were approved by President Donald J. Trump and are set to expire at the end of 2025.
They havent stopped trying to change how our elections are run. Theyre just doing it out of the spotlight, said Joanna Lydgate, the chief executive of States United, a nonpartisan election group. Some of the policies being promoted today will be law in time for next years presidential election, she added, and American voters will feel the impact.

Republicans have long said their goal is election integrity, but a spate of recent proposals suggests clear, and sometimes strikingly specific, political aims. National Republicans recently sought to change the rules for a single race in Montana  for the U.S. Senate  to tilt the scales toward the Republican candidate. In Ohio, Republican state lawmakers are seeking to make it harder to pass a ballot initiative, just as a coalition of abortion rights groups is collecting signatures to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot.

On a recent conference call with activists in Michigan, Cleta Mitchell, one of the chief architects of the new coalition, blamed electoral systems for the partys losses in midterm elections, and not, as pundits have said, abortion messaging or poor candidates, according to a recording obtained by The New York Times.

I think you have got to figure out what we have to do, where to fix the system that gives a Republican candidate a potential chance to win, she said.

Ms. Mitchell declined to comment.

Incrementalism at Work

With some legislatures still in session, the full picture of new election laws is still coming into view. But this account of the state of the Republican campaign is based on documents, recordings and meeting minutes provided by Documented, a liberal investigative group, as well as on interviews and data analysis.
AUSTIN, Texas  What had for years been a solid wall of opposition among Texas Republicans to gun control showed small signs of cracking on Monday as a bipartisan committee of the State Legislature voted to advance a bill raising the minimum age to purchase AR-15-style rifles.

The preliminary vote was remarkable in a State Capitol dominated by Republicans, all the more so because it had been entirely unexpected: When the day began, the 13-member committee had not been scheduled to meet at all.

But the killing of eight people, including several children, at a shopping center in Allen, Texas, on Saturday has exerted an unexpectedly raw and emotional force on the Legislature. The shooting, by a man with an AR-15-style rifle, came just over a week after the killing of five people by their neighbor with an AR-15-style rifle in a home north of Houston, and just shy of a year after 19 children and two teachers were killed by an 18-year-old gunman armed with an AR-15-style rifle in Uvalde, Texas.

It was the most emotional vote Ive ever taken, and I started crying after I made it, said State Representative Sam Harless, a Republican from the Houston area who voted to keep the bill moving toward the House floor. That means my heart told me I made the right vote.
When I told my friend that DiTondo is a unique snowflake amid the blizzard of Buffalo Italian options, he pulled a face.

So I brought in the closer: my primary care physician.

Born in Italy, this doctors been poking and prodding me professionally for decades. When I became restaurant critic 12 years ago, I asked the doctor where they went for a taste of home. They emphatically decried the status of Italian dining in Buffalo, calling it nonexistent. San Marco came the closest, the doctor said.

So it went, year after year. The doctor investigated the status of my health, and the annual colloquy on the state of Italian dining in Buffalo brought neither of us any satisfaction.

Last month, at my annual checkup, medical chitchat ensued.

Then I asked them: DiTondo?

Yes! the doctor said. Finally.

Fabio Consonni and Rita DiTondo have made so many people happy every night they serve dinner that the Katzs scene from When Harry Met Sally has low-key competition.

DiTondo met Consonni while working as a sommelier at a boutique hotel on Lake Garda called Villa Fiordaliso. They've worked as a team in New York City and Seattle. Now with Consonni in the kitchen and DiTondo everywhere else, Buffalo can enjoy a first-class Italian room where none of the entrees hit $30.

Astonishment for $10 is a pretty good deal these days. In that category, consider the parmigiano puffs. Three plum-sized fritters dusted with gossamer cheese have somehow been filled with Parmesan air.

Smelt in saor ($13) was one of a half-dozen Consonni dishes that have forced me to reconsider ingredients Ive been eating for decades. Fillets blanketed with onions, vinegar and pine nuts made me gape in wonder, then file away the lesson learned. Vinegar turned the piscine pong into a new-to-me, deeply savory sensation that has made me look differently at little fishies ever since.

Whens the last time you found a chef using nutritional yeast? Well-known in the vegan cooking world for its umami without animal involvement, Consonni uses it to add savor to a simple salad ($13) of minimally dressed lettuce. Finocchio al forno ($14), baked fennel with breadcrumbs, shows the benefits of principled restraint, celebrating the sweet licorice sensations of the vegetable, not cream or cheese.

Seriously consider a pasta of the week, usually housemade. Paccheri ($29), big smooth tubes of pasta jumbled with shrimp, cherry tomatoes and lemon zest, speaks of summer by the sea.

The spagettoni alla puttanesca ($26) has tomatoes, chile, capers and olives with a beefier version of spaghetti, and enough chile zip to tingle but not hurt.

Until DiTondo, Id never thought to braise pork with fruit. Then I met spezzatino aluva ($24), braised pork shoulder with onions and grapes, served with a sticky reduced sauce that got spooned up before plate left table.

How many diners have stopped ordering swordfish because its often grilled to the consistency of roofing shingle?

Consonnis Pesce spada alla griglia ($27), with lemon, capers and parsley, is another dish where veteran Buffalo diners will appreciate the DiTondo difference. Now I know that swordfish, cooked precisely, can be tender, almost to the point of creaminess. The tang of the coarse pestolike accompaniment extended and expanded the fishs richness into a much broader celebration.

Trippa alla Milanese ($21) with white beans, bacon, tomatoes and pecorino, reinforced my resolve to one day be brave enough to cook tripe myself. The hearty ragu spoke of courtyard, not barnyard, redeeming the shunned organ meat for any carnivore with range.

The selection of Italian wines is brief but canny, showing the discerning choices of a sommelier who has a firsthand familiarity with the terrain shes mining for great bottles. Several are available by the glass ($10), but most are offered by the bottle ($40-$410), with most in the $50-$80 range.

After encountering the tiramisu at DiTondo ($11), its balance of coffee, chocolate and cream might affect your enjoyment or even tolerance of other versions, but thats the risk you take.

If you dont want to take that risk, two more simple, darn-near perfect desserts can take you the rest of the way: rum baba ($11), rum-soaked sponge cake and fresh whipped cream, and a properly jiggly panna cotta with honey and sea salt ($9) are finishing flourishes worth the calories.

Like more and more restaurants in these times, DiTondo adds a 20% service fee to checks to better pay cooks (add more if you are so moved). Also, reservations are online only, not by phone.

Book a night at DiTondo to experience finesse and principled restraint unequaled in Western New York. One hundred percent of my primary care physicians have deemed it effective for treating Italian cuisine withdrawal.

DiTondo

370 Seneca St., ditondo1904.com

Hours: 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Closed Sunday through Tuesday.

Prices: antipasto, $8-$32; primi, $26-$29; secondi, $24-$29.

Atmosphere: quiet appreciation

Parking: lot

Wheelchair accessible:

Gluten-free options: no

Outdoor dining: patio open in warmer weather.
More recently, neo-Nazi groups in the United States and members of other far-right organizations like the Proud Boys have claimed the phrase, and often wear the abbreviation on clothing or patches. The Proud Boys in particular often combine RWDS labels with shirts reading, Pinochet Did Nothing Wrong.

The online profile being investigated also includes several pictures showing a black tactical vest with an RWDS patch. The patch has the shape of a shield with a notch in its upper right corner  an echo, experts say, of similar patches worn by Nazi SS units. In addition, the profile includes a screenshot from Google Maps showing the time at which the mall where the shooting took place was likely to be busiest.

Though the writer of the posts suggests several times that they are of Hispanic origin  at one point indicating they are originally from Mexico  there is also a clear embrace of white supremacy. As recently as last month, the account contained a post saying that white people and Hispanics have a lot in common.

The identities of the shooting victims have not yet been released, another factor that leaves the motive murky. Even so, one fact weighed heavily on the suburban community outside Dallas where the murders occurred: There were children among the victims.

Although the police would not indicate how many children died, officials including President Biden acknowledged that there were more than one.
Seasonal allergies can be miserable. The sneezing, congestion and itchy, watery eyes can feel like a terrible cold that wont go away, especially now that pollen seasons are getting longer and more intense.

Not only are the physical symptoms draining, but a growing body of research also shows an association between allergic rhinitis  commonly known as hay fever  and mood disorders like anxiety and depression.

The relationship between allergens and mood disorders really is underrecognized, not only in the general population but even among health care practitioners, said Dr. David A. Gudis, chief of the division of rhinology and anterior skull base surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

But given that millions of Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, its an important link for both doctors and patients to understand, he added, in order to speak openly about any mental health concerns and to ensure the best possible treatments.
The death toll of last weeks deadly floods and landslides in the Democratic Republic of Congo climbed to more than 400 people, the government said on Monday, as rescue workers and family members searched through debris and mud for victims and survivors of the disaster.

The flooding began on Thursday, as heavy rains pushed rivers to overflow their banks, causing rushing water and mud to flow into villages, washing away homes and ravaging farmland.

The situation is catastrophic, said Remy Kasindi, a representative for a civil society group in South Kivu, where the floods took place. Its a humanitarian crisis that troubles our consciences.

Mr. Kasindi said that survivors were looking for their family members in the mud, and that some bodies were pulled from nearby Lake Kivu.
BEIJING  The hospital in southern Beijing advertised itself as specializing in vascular tumors, especially benign birthmarks that often appear in infants.

But when a fire broke out there last month, killing at least 29 people, many of the victims had been there for another reason: They were older people with disabilities receiving nursing care, some of them staying at the private hospital for months or even years, even though it was not licensed as a provider of long-term elder care.

The tragedy at Changfeng Hospital  the deadliest fire in Chinas capital in more than two decades  has renewed scrutiny of a long-running problem. Chinas population is rapidly aging, with 400 million people, nearly 30 percent of the population, expected to be over 60 by 2040. But medical resources have not kept up; there were only about eight million nursing home or elder care beds at the end of 2020, according to official statistics.

The authorities have recognized the urgency of addressing the shortage, with Beijings latest five-year plan pledging to raise that number to nine million beds by 2025. But many obstacles remain.
In the three months since, China has ramped up a campaign of anti-American rhetoric and tried to drive a wedge between the United States and Europe, which is divided over how closely to align with Washingtons more hawkish policies toward Beijing.

In Mr. Qins meeting with Mr. Burns, the Chinese official accused Washington of derailing progress in the relationship following the meeting of President Biden and Chinas top leader, Xi Jinping, in November in Bali, Indonesia. Mr. Qin blamed a series of erroneous words and deeds by the United States for undermining the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations, according to the Chinese readout.

Mr. Qin said he hoped the Biden administration could reflect deeply and push the relationship back on track. To do that, Washington needed to respect Chinas bottom line on issues such as Taiwan, the self-governing island claimed by Beijing. Mr. Qin said the United States was supporting and condoning Taiwan independence separatist forces.

China reacted angrily to a visit last month by President Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan to the United States. Ms. Tsai met with Kevin McCarthy, the speaker of the House of Representatives, in what was the highest-level in-person gathering for a leader of Taiwan in the United States since Beijing established relations with Washington in 1979.

In a post on Twitter, Mr. Burns said he and Mr. Qin discussed challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication.
At least 22 people, many of them children, were killed after a double-decker tourist boat capsized in the southern Indian state of Kerala on Sunday evening. Rescuers had found eight people with injuries by the next morning, with four of them in critical condition.

Some passengers were trapped under the vessel, which was concluding a five-mile voyage in the estuary of the Purapuzha River near the town of Tanur on Indias southwestern coast. The boat was carrying more than 40 sightseers, according to survivors, when it capsized at around 7 p.m.

The boat was overcrowded, said Abdul Nazar, a local police officer. It did not have enough life jackets, other officials as well as survivors said. Local media reported that the vessel also lacked a required safety certificate, and was not permitted to operate that late in the day.

Among the victims were seven children, the youngest 10 months old, and 11 victims were from one family, according to the authorities, who havent been able to verify how many people were aboard the boat at the time of the accident. Five passengers swam ashore and were being treated at a nearby hospital, according to V. Abdurahiman, a local legislator, who is overseeing the rescue operation.
A Berlin court on Monday upheld a police ban on Russian and Soviet flags and other symbols at this weeks Victory Day celebrations, which commemorate the end of World War II in Europe.

In Berlin, the Victory celebration spans two days. Late on May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany signed its capitulation in Berlin. Because of the time difference, Russia celebrates the victory against fascism on May 9.

In the years prior to Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Berliners and Russians in the city would gather at major monuments. But now, the monuments have become staging points for pro-Russian activists.

Although a majority of Germans support Ukraine, a vocal minority back Moscow, including members of the large Russian diaspora as well as far-right activists.
A shift in weather conditions brought much-needed relief to firefighters in Western Canada, where around 964,000 acres have burned since wildfires started more than a week ago, destroying dozens of structures and forcing nearly 30,000 residents of Alberta to evacuate.

Cooler temperatures and light, scattered showers allowed firefighters to reach wildfires over the weekend that they had not been able to access because of extreme wildfire behavior, Christie Tucker, an information officer with Alberta Wildfire, a firefighting agency, said at a news conference on Sunday.

Officials expect the weather to continue to work in their favor over the next few days, with cooler temperatures in the forecast as well as higher humidity in southern and central Alberta. But in the north, firefighters will continue to be challenged with dry conditions, Ms. Tucker said.
Trinity College Dublin has decided to seek a new name for its central library, the Berkeley, after concluding that the alumnus it honors, the 18th-century philosopher George Berkeley, owned slaves in colonial Rhode Island and wrote pamphlets supportive of slavery.

A fellow of Trinity and the former librarian there, Berkeley is regarded by academics as one of the most influential thinkers of the early modern period. Some view his philosophical and scientific ideas on perception and reality as foreshadowing the work of Albert Einstein.

But last month, the governing board of Trinity, Irelands oldest university, announced that it had voted to dename the library after months of research and consultation by a group established to review problematic legacies. The group based its recommendations on an analysis of historical records, already in the public domain, showing that Berkeley had purchased several enslaved people for a plantation that he operated while living in Rhode Island from 1729 to 1732.

Already a noted scholar, Berkeley went to America with plans to use wealth from the plantation, as well as public donations, to open a school in Bermuda that would take Native American children  by force if need be  and convert them to Christianity.
The war in Ukraine has prompted officials across Russia to scale back annual celebrations of Victory Day, the countrys most important national holiday, with more than 20 cities forgoing military parades and organizers calling off a popular nationwide march to honor veterans.

Security concerns were most often cited for the rash of cancellations of Tuesdays events, but some analysts suggested that the unease had as much to do with fears about domestic disturbances.

It is an extraordinary step in a country where the parades, which commemorate the triumph of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II, have become a signature event for President Vladimir V. Putin.

Over the years, he has cast the day not just as celebration of a historic victory but also of Russias present-day need to thwart the Western forces he says are still trying to destroy it. More recently, he has tried to wrap Ukraine into that narrative, falsely depicting it as a Nazi redoubt.
Most television reporters and anchors leave Buffalo for bigger markets.

Thats what makes the decision of former WIVB-TV (Channel 4) anchor Abby Fridmann to leave the morning program Wake Up! to join a morning program at WHAM -TV in Rochester on a three-year contract starting today more intriguing.

Buffalo is the No. 54 market in the country, while Rochester is the No. 77 TV market.

WHAM is an ABC and Fox affiliate owned by Sinclair Broadcasting, while WIVB is a CBS affiliate owned by Nexstar Media.

Fridmanns reasons for leaving for a smaller market 80 miles down the Thruway are partially explained by her college experience. She is a graduate of SUNY Brockport near Rochester who later received a masters degree from Syracuse University. Before joining WIVB in November of 2020, she worked at a Burlington, Vt., station.

Rochester is my home away from home, she explained in a telephone interview. I didn't grow up there. But I did a lot of growing up there. It's where I went to undergrad. It's where I fell in love with journalism.

I shadowed reporters at WHAM and I interned at News 10 while in college. Coming back was just an amazing opportunity I really couldn't pass up. This seemed like a great fit. I knew that this was a great newsroom going in because I interned there in college and when I saw the opportunity, I didn't want to miss out on it.

The move from Channel 4 was even more surprising when you consider that the station needed stability in its morning program.

A Lancaster native, Fridmann became the third female co-anchor to leave Channel 4s morning program in less than a year.

Melanie Orlins left last summer to become a morning anchor at a station in Charleston, S.C., while Kelsey Anderson was promoted to Channel 4s 11 p.m. co-anchor after veteran Jacquie Walker decided to step down from that newscast.

Fridmann had been the permanent Wake Up! co-anchor alongside Chris Horvatits since December and filled in on the newscast for several months before that. She started at Channel 4 two and a half years ago as the anchor of Weekend Wake Up! and a weekday reporter.

Stations here often hire reporters and anchors from Western New York who they believe will stay here longer than those from outside the area.

Fridmann previously said WIVB was surprised by her decision to leave.

I think for the very same reason, so many people have been surprised, said Fridmann. I'm from the area. I grew up here. I have been a Buffalo booster the entire time. I've been a huge advocate for the city and everything that we stand for. I think that's probably why a lot of people are surprised.

She acknowledged something that also may be surprising: She was offered more money to go to Rochester than she was offered to stay at Channel 4 where she was working under her original contract as a multimedia journalist and weekend morning anchor.

I said in my original interview, money wasn't my concern, she said of a previous interview. I said, it definitely helps. But that was not a deciding factor there. I was just looking for a station where I could really grow and spend a very, very long time, possibly the rest of my career there.

Why couldnt she do that at Channel 4?

That's a great question, she said. I don't know.

She also couldnt explain why a Rochester station would offer her more money than a Buffalo station.

People who work for Nexstar may speculate why. The media company reportedly has previously asked its staffers to accept raises of 1% annually. Former Channel 4 meteorologist Andrew Baglini tweeted about that again this weekend.

Nexstar also made Fridmann pay to get out of her current contract early.

She said Channel 4 did offer a new contract with a sizable raise from the one she was working under to stay on its weekday morning program, but the Rochester offer was higher.

It wasnt outrageously more, said Fridmann. It was reasonable. Like I said, really money did not play a role here.

Fridmann, who is married, said she and her husband, a marketing director for a financial company based out of Amherst with offices in Rochester and Syracuse, havent decided whether they will move to Rochester.

At WHAM, she will be co-anchoring with another Western New Yorker. Dan Schrack, her morning co-anchor, is a native of Niagara Falls and a former Channel 4 assignment editor and producer.

According to his biography, Schrack was awarded the "Tim Russert Medal of Merit" in 2015 by the Buffalo Broadcasters Association, for "Student of Outstanding Performance."
Buzzing like an oversize mosquito, a small drone lifted off from a farm field in eastern Ukraine, hovered for a bit, then raced toward Russian positions near the battle-ravaged city of Bakhmut.

Friends, lets go! said the pilot, Private Yevhen. With a pair of virtual reality goggles strapped around his head, he used joysticks to steer the craft and its payload of two pounds of explosives.

Cobbled together from hobby drones, consumer electronics and computer gaming gear, handmade attack drones like this one have emerged as one of the deadliest and most widespread innovations in more than 14 months of warfare in Ukraine.

Along the front line, drones extend the reach of soldiers, who can fly them with pinpoint accuracy to drop hand grenades into enemy trenches or bunkers, or fly into targets to blow up on impact. Self-destructing drones, in particular, are easily constructed, and thousands of soldiers on both sides now have experience building them from commonly available parts  though the Ukrainians say they use such weapons more frequently than their Russian opponents.
KYIV, Ukraine  People living in Russian-occupied areas of southern Ukraine described in recent days an atmosphere of confusion, defiance and scarcity, as the occupation authorities ordered tens of thousands of civilians to evacuate in the face of a looming Ukrainian offensive.

The New York Times communicated with more than a dozen people in occupied towns and villages in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine, by phone and through secure messaging applications. They said gas stations were running dry, grocery store shelves were emptying and A.T.M.s were out of cash.

They discharge people from the hospitals and take away the equipment, said Andriy, 38, a resident of occupied Kamianka-Dniprovska in the Zaporizhzhia region of southern Ukraine. Then they close them. No one explains why and for how long. And people are afraid to ask since there are armed soldiers around.

Access to occupied areas is heavily restricted, and the accounts of residents could not be independently verified. Some of those interviewed were reached with the assistance of exiled local officials; others were contacted through relatives in the capital, Kyiv, or after they posted about the evacuation orders on social media.
Russia will celebrate its most important annual military holiday this week, amid mounting anxiety following a series of attacks and over a looming Ukrainian counteroffensive.

The May 9 holiday, Victory Day, marks the triumph of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany. It falls this year just a week after two explosions over the Kremlin, which Russia said was a Ukrainian attempt to use drones to assassinate President Vladimir V. Putin.

President Volodymyr Zelensky strongly denied any involvement in what would have been a brazen strike and has warned that Moscow would use it as a pretext to win public support and potentially escalate the war.
Time is running out for Congress to raise the nations debt limit, which controls how much money the government can borrow to pay its bills. Lawmakers will need to reach a bipartisan agreement to lift the cap. The longer it takes, the more turmoil there could be for the United States and the global economy.

Congress can ... We are here Pass a timely deal Fail to reach a timely agreement Use congressional maneuvers Let X-date pass Treasury decides which payments to default on Default on debt Raise the debt limit Congress can ... We are here Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Use congressional maneuvers Let X-date pass Treasury decides which payments to default on Raise the debt limit Default on debt

Since the United States reached its debt limit in January, the Treasury Department has been using accounting tricks  known as extraordinary measures  to continue paying Americas bills and avoid default. Janet L. Yellen, the Treasury secretary, said that the nation would exhaust these measures by June 1, hitting what is known as the X-date.

There are several potential paths to raising the debt limit. Some are straightforward but unlikely, while others are more challenging or could cause economic chaos.

Timely, but unlikely

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Raise the debt limit Default on debt Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Raise the debt limit Default on debt

The simplest resolution would be to cleanly pass an agreement to raise or suspend the debt limit before the United States runs out of cash. The debt limit was raised this way three times during the Trump administration and dozens of times during past presidencies.

But House Republicans have made clear that they want stipulations in the form of spending cuts attached to this next debt limit increase. The Biden administration has dug in on the other side, insisting that it will only accept an agreement without spending cuts. President Biden will meet with top Republicans and Democrats at the White House on Tuesday to discuss a path forward.

If House Republicans agree to the White Houses no-strings-attached stance, or if the White House agrees to some spending cuts, a deal could be struck without severe market disruptions or special congressional maneuvers. Given where both sides stand now, that seems unlikely.

Before the X-date

Without a timely deal, markets could be in for a wild ride as the nation stares down a period of brinkmanship.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Temporary suspension Delay the debate Raise the debt limit Default on debt Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Temporary suspension Delay the debate Raise the debt limit Default on debt

Republicans have floated the idea of a temporary suspension, which would mean delaying the debt limit debate until a later date. In the meantime, Congress would agree to raise the limit by a small amount that would buy a little more time. Such a move would essentially kick the can down the road.

The catch: While Wall Street analysts have suggested that the impending X-date increases the chance of a temporary suspension, so far there appears to be little appetite in Congress for a delay that both sides could accept. The debate would still need to happen, and if delayed long enough, it might collide with the 2024 presidential election cycle, presenting a political wild card at an inopportune time.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Discharge petition House majority, regardless of party Default on debt Raise the debt limit Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Discharge petition House majority, regardless of party Raise the debt limit Default on debt

Congress could also use a special maneuver called a discharge petition to skirt conservative Republican holdouts and try to squeak an agreement through the House. A discharge petition is a demand with signatures from a majority of the House members, regardless of party affiliation, that can force a piece of legislation  like a bill to raise the debt limit  to be considered on the House floor. Such a measure could be used either before or after the X-date.

The catch: Discharge petitions are time-consuming and easily derailed. The process requires at least five House Republicans to go on the record with their signatures to circumvent Speaker Kevin McCarthy and party leadership. In a sign of growing concern about the debt limit, Democrats recently began the discharge petition process and plan to start collecting signatures in mid-May.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Last-minute deal Spurred by market volatility Raise the debt limit Default on debt Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Potential market volatility Last-minute deal Spurred by market volatility Raise the debt limit Default on debt

In 2011, lawmakers allowed the debt limit debate to get down to the wire, and then agreed to raise the debt limit at the last minute. Politicians have suggested in private that it could take severe turmoil in financial markets to elicit a deal this time around.

The catch: Markets have become used to long debt limit debates, and some on Wall Street think that investors may not react enough to lead to a deal before the X-date. Plus, market turmoil would itself come at a cost, potentially cascading to slow the broader economy.

After the X-date

If the government fails to raise the debt limit before the X-date, the Treasury Department will have to default on at least some bills. Officials might try to pay some debts and not others, but it is not clear whether such prioritization would be politically palatable or practical.

If the Treasury does pay some important bills  like interest on Americas bonds  while deferring others, it might help to mitigate the damage as lawmakers try to reach a deal. But the Treasury could still miscalculate or simply run out of time, causing the nation to default on its financial debts, too.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Prioritize interest Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Raise the debt limit Default on debt Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Prioritize interest Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Default on debt Raise the debt limit

If the Treasury decided to prioritize payments, the simplest option might be to prioritize only debt payments. The Treasury could stop paying all bills except for interest and principal on its bonds. During the 2011 debt limit standoff, officials made rough contingency plans for this kind of prioritization, as Federal Reserve transcripts from that time suggest.

The catch: Even if prioritizing interest payments proves possible, it does not mean it would make sense politically. The government would be paying back debt holders  which include foreign nations such as China  before federal workers, veterans and Social Security recipients. It could be better than sending markets into a free fall, but would be painful for those who rely on government payments.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Prioritize interest and other bills Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Raise the debt limit Default on debt Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Prioritize interest and other bills Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Default on debt Raise the debt limit

Another option for the Treasury is to prioritize additional bills on top of interest, like paying Social Security recipients or military salaries. This more granular prioritization could come in many forms, depending on what the government decided to stop paying.

The catch: Former Treasury officials have said that detailed prioritization may not be possible, because government systems are not designed to turn on and off like a spigot. It would also be politically difficult for officials to decide what to pay and what to skip.

Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Pay bills as they come Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Default on debt Raise the debt limit Congress can ... Pass a timely deal Fail to reach an agreement Let X-date pass Default on some bills Congressional maneuvers Pay bills as they come Enough time to reach a deal Time runs out Default on debt Raise the debt limit

Another option would be to simply pay bills in order until the money runs out. That would result in delayed, but eventual, payments for the people and institutions owed money by the government.

The catch: Paying bills as they come without prioritizing interest could lead to a more rapid default on government debt  a situation in which interest would not be paid on time.

Wild cards

Experts and pundits have suggested other workarounds, including minting a $1 trillion coin and depositing it at the Fed to infuse cash into the government. Officials within the Biden administration have also discussed whether they can ignore the debt limit, relying on a clause in the 14th Amendment that says the United States must honor its debts.

Default

Raise the debt limit Default on debt Potential loss of trust in U.S. bonds Default on debt Potential loss of trust in U.S. bonds Raise the debt limit

Many on Wall Street think that the worst-case scenario would play out if the government missed an interest payment, leaving it in default on its debt.

Economists have warned that such an outcome could be catastrophic. Domestic and international investors have historically seen American debt as a safe investment, and a default could impair their confidence in the United States to make good on its bills and might push up the governments borrowing costs for years to come. And worries could ricochet through other markets.

The Fed has in the past discussed strategies to temporarily cushion potential damage, like buying defaulted bonds. But the central banks chair, Jerome H. Powell, emphasized last week that nothing it could do would save America from serious consequences.

It is hard to know exactly how investors would react to missed interest payments, because there is little precedent: The Treasury failed to make on-time payments to some small investors in the spring of 1979 because of a technical problem, but otherwise the government has paid back its debts on time in modern America. Markets could gyrate immediately, or it could take time for them to react.

At the end of the day, all paths lead to the same place: The United States will need to find a way to pay the bills it has incurred. The question is how much damage happens along the way.
A young security guard who suffered multiple injuries while trying to catch a girl who had jumped from a building ended up losing his job and getting criticized by the womans family.

28-year-old Qu Yan was working as a security guard at a hospital in Chinas Jilin Province in 2022 when his life took a tragic turn. He was on duty when he received reports that a young girl had climbed onto a fourth-floor balcony and was threatening to jump to her death. He quickly ran outside and saw the young woman preparing to take her own life. Firefighters had not yet arrived, and a number of hospital employees were scrambling to improvise a net to catch the woman when she jumped. They never got the chance to do so, as the woman leaped from the balcony before they were ready, so Qu Yan reacted instinctively, rushing forward and trying to catch the woman in his arms.

The impact was so powerful that Qu Yan suffered multiple fractures all over his body, including in his arms and spine, but he managed to save the girls life. She needed hospitalization as well, but her injuries were much less severe, and she was discharged in a matter of days. The guard was not as lucky

Almost a year after the incident that left Qu Yan confined to a hospital bed, his situation is not much improved. Doctors still cant rule out permanent paralysis due to the damage to his spine, and, to make matters worse, his family can no longer afford to pay for his medication. They wouldnt have to if he had insurance, but Qu Yan lost his job soon after rescuing the suicidal girls life, because he (obviously) couldnt show up to work.

Qu Yans family tried contacting the security company he used to work for to ask them to cover part of his medical bills, because he had been injured on the job, but they refused, and the family didnt have enough money to hire a lawyer for a legal battle. But they got the most shocking response when they tried contacting the family of the girl Qu Yan had saved. In a video posted on BiliBili, one of Qu Yans relatives can be seen calling the suicidal girls family, only to be berated and threatened by them.

What have you done? Our child is like this now, the girls mother says in the video. My child is disabled. If something happens to her, you are also responsible and you have to bear the responsibility for the rest of your life.

The young security guards tragic story melted the hearts of millions in China many of whom offered to help him financially. Many also criticized the family of the woman he saved for being so heartless instead of thanking him for saving her life.

Its so infuriating, why not be grateful? one person commented.
Carrie Jones and Stefanie Tuck co-authored this article.

In an unprecedented move, judges are assuming a doctors responsibilities from the bench, even though they lack medical training or credentials. This development has raised serious concerns about the role the judicial system may have in shaping the governments regulatory authority, particularly regarding the drug and device approval process.

The quickly shifting landscape has left the biopharma industry unsure of how to proceed and looking to PR professionals to evaluate their comfort level for speaking out and provide guidance on the rapidly changing dynamics across this political issue.

We believe as health communicators, its our duty to guide life-sciences companies with grounded and level-headed advice that embodies three foundational pillars: educating the decision-makers, elevating stakeholder voices and managing risk by scenario planning.

While many news stories are focusing on the conflicting federal court rulings on the abortion drug mifepristone and the ongoing appeals process, biopharma companies are grappling with the implications of any judge having the power to change decisions made by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, both good and bad. Theyre also considering how best to insert themselves into this charged conversation.

With careful planning and execution, companies can overcome these hurdles while continuing to bring innovative treatments and therapies to patients who need them.

This article is featured in O'Dwyer's May '23 PR Firm Rankings Magazine

(view PDF version)

Educating the decision-makers

Decision makers, both internally at biopharma companies and externally at medical associations and advocacy organizations, need succinct, factually-based information before diving into further strategic and tactical planning.

Whether the Texas federal court decision on mifepristone is ultimately upheld or not, the legal implications could have a detrimental impact on the countrys ability to evaluate all medications and treatments.

This is exactly why we must prepare top-level executives who regularly converse with their educated government relations team to better understand the situation, how it impacts the industry and what to expect next. This begins by listening to their audiences and translating what we hear into actionable information that executives can share internally and externally.

Despite the FDA indicating medication is safe via market approval, many biopharma companies that make products some might consider controversial, such as vaccines, stem-cell therapeutics and hormone therapy, could find themselves the target of lawsuitsnow with a precedent of success.

Being fully informed of all factual aspects and risk factors will be crucial to ensuring that companies do not make any statements or movements that could be seen as damaging with regulatory bodies and the media covering these developments.

Elevating stakeholder voices

Patient groups, medical associations and academics are recognized as advocating for access to new medicines. However, were now seeing major biopharma industry organizations join together with companies and key opinion leaders in unwavering support of the FDAs authority. It seems theres a first for everything.

The drug discovery community strongly believes in giving every patient a platform to voice their opinions. We can all agree that patients are instrumental in driving progress. Leveraging media channels to amplify the voices of stakeholders is considered a best practice that aids in understanding how a medication or therapy can enhance their health, well-being and overall quality of life.

As PR professionals, its our responsibility to advise clients on whom they should prioritize among their stakeholders, when to do so and which channels to use for amplification. While patient perspectives are essential, we must also consider voices such as public health experts, government relations employees, and members of legislative bodies. These stakeholders can play a crucial role in engaging with state and federal representatives to advance policies and legislation that benefit patients.

These stories can be used in multiple ways; we can use targeted op-eds in local or national outlets, visit Capitol Hill to foster positive relationships with Congresspeople, engage with relevant advocacy groups, and use the media to amplify key opinion leaders voices and bring broad awareness to different audiences.

As PR professionals, we have a responsibility to help our clients engage with all stakeholders who may be affected by this issue, which will likely play out in the Supreme Court. We must help our clients lift the voices of these unheard advocates.

Managing risk by scenario planning

Crisis and scenario planning tend to be time-consuming, meaning we need to drive home to clients why now is the time to think through key specifics so they feel ready to face any contingency the industry might experience. Identifying best and worst-case scenarios allows us to fully prepare for any eventuality and leads to better business outcomes.

In recent years, our biopharma clients have faced mounting pressure to achieve more with limited resources. Given the swift pace at which the mifepristone case is advancing through the legal system, they must now analyze the situation and chart their next course of action. Yes, some clients may be anxious to act. Thats why we must help them evaluate the pitfalls associated with impulsive communications and help them develop thoughtful crisis plans.

For the majority of clients, the best approach is to assess the situation thoroughly before making any moves. None of us can predict the future or anticipate the outcome of the high courts ruling.

While the legal battle related to access to medical abortion continues to gain visibility, other related issues persist across the industry. For example, lobbying groups continue to bring lawsuits challenging various portions of federal health involvementsuch as questioning the legality of stem cell research and changing what patients have access to including cost barriers.

More notably, weve already seen these legal challenges infect our system in another recent court ruling addressing the purview of the Preventive Care Task Force. This showcases just how embedded in our health system judges have become and the power they are wielding from the bench. These issues arent going away. And its all happening at lightning speed.

Recently, weve seen a ping-pong of movement faster than weve ever seen before in non-emergency situations. We must help our clients stay focused on the core purpose, mission and values, and we must continue to broadcast the good work theyre doing to help patients across the country and the world.

***

Carrie Jones is CEO and Stefanie Tuck is Vice President with JPA Health.
Brent Anderson

Gagnier Communications has hired Brent Anderson as managing director in Calgary, which is the capital of Canadas energy sector.

Anderson has more than 20 years of corporate, brand, crisis, digital and transaction experience.

He joins the New York-based financial PR firm from Frontera Energy Co, where he was director of investor relations.

Earlier, Anderson did a 12-year run at Talisman Energy, exiting as manager of corporate communications.

Dan Gagnier said the addition of Anderson and the establishment of a presence in Calgary will position the firm to better serve the needs of current and future energy clients on a national and global basis.

Gagnier Communications earlier this year opened a Toronto outpost led by managing directors Riyaz Lalani and Louise Kozier.
In our part of the continent, the answer is yes, along with some other factors. There has been a near-linear increase in the spread of Lyme disease, a bacterial infection carried by deer ticks in the last few decades.

The life cycle of many ticks appears to have been sped up, and milder winters have lessened tick kill-off during the cold weather months. Even so, the basic life cycle hasnt changed, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

The longer growing seasons and earlier onset of spring along with later extent of warm temperatures into the fall has created a favorable environment for tick populations to increase, and spread into regions where they werent common until recent decades. In addition, CDC and other state and federal agencies report the animals that carry these ticks are also expanding their habitats as the climate warms. This probably creates something akin to a perfect storm for tick range and population spreads.

However, CDC data from the last decade is beginning to suggest the rate of Lyme disease increase may be showing signs of leveling off closer to 2020, at least temporarily. It is too soon to know if this is a trend, or just a brief anomaly.

Still, a comparison between 1996 incidence and 2018 incidence of Lyme disease reports demonstrates the very large increase that has already occurred, including in Western New York.

The incidence of Lyme disease in the U.S. has nearly doubled since 1991, according to the CDC.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that in addition to the direct tick population link to climate, increases in animal host populations such as deer and white-footed mice are also a major factor. The latter increases may not have a link with climate change. On the other hand, the National Wildlife Federation has examined data that suggests the very disease bacterium themselves have better survival rates in a warmer climate.

While this article concentrates more on the Lyme disease threat, there are quite a number of serious diseases carried by several types of ticks:

 The American dog tick, also called the wood tick, transmits tularemia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Highest risk of being bitten by this tick is spring and summer.

 The blacklegged tick transmits Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis (Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis), babesiosis, Borrelia miyamotoi and Powassan disease. Highest risk of being bitten by this tick is spring, summer, fall, and winter when temperatures rise above freezing.

 The brown dog tick transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever, though this species bites dogs more often than humans.

 The Gulf Coast tick transmits a form of Rocky Mountain spotted fever called Rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis, though this species doesnt bite people as often.

 The lone star tick transmits Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Ehrlichia ewingii (which cause human ehrlichiosis), Heartland virus, tularemia and STARI. This tick species is a fairly aggressive species.

 The Rocky Mountain wood tick transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever and tularemia.

 The Western blacklegged tick transmits Anaplasmosis and Lyme disease.

The CDC tick surveillance link tracks where the primary tick carriers are found.

Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne disease in our region, can produce serious symptoms if left untreated. Your physicians are informed on diagnosis and treatment, but the CDC offers basic guidance for all of us who may be exposed when outdoors.

Preventative measures to limit exposure can range from simple steps, like staying in the middle of pathways rather than wandering off into tall grass, to what may seem like a real nuisance on hot days. Wearing long pants tucked into socks may seem burdensome on days with steamy heat indices, but that beats hard-to-detect tick bites. Long sleeved, light-colored shirts are also advised, and so are close-toed shoes and tucked shirts. One of the most effective measures to be taken is the use of an effective repellent containing DEET, at 20% concentration. DEET has been proven safe and effective when used according to label directions. (Consumer Reports notes some formulations are less effective and can wear off in as little as 30 minutes, so ask for recommended brands.)

Ticks thrive more in tall grass, so lawns should be trimmed to 3 inches. Anti-tick products (ask your vet) should also be used on pets, and pets should be checked for ticks if they have been outside. That goes for us, too. If youve been on a woodland walk, changing clothes, checking skin for ticks and showering are effective measures. Putting those clothes in the dryer for 10 minutes is also advised.
The family of Jordan Neely has responded to Daniel Pennys first statement, calling it an admission of guilt.

The family of Jordan Neely isnt standing for Daniel Pennys non-apology. On Monday morning (May 8), the family released a statement in response to Pennys recollection of the incident, in which 30-year-old Neely died after being held in a chokehold on New York Citys F train for a reported seven minutes.

"Daniel Penny's press release is not an apology nor an expression of regret. It is a character assassination and a clear example of why he believed he was entitled to take Jordan's life, Neelys family stated, per attorneys Donte Mills and Lennon Edwards. In the first paragraph, he talks about how 'good' he is and the next paragraph he talks about how 'bad' Jordan was in an effort to convince us Jordan's life was 'worthless.' The truth is, he knew nothing about Jordan's history when he intentionally wrapped his arms around Jordan's neck, and squeezed and kept squeezing.

They added, In the last paragraph, Daniel Penny suggests that the general public has shown 'indifference' for people like Jordan, but that term is more appropriately used to describe himself. It is clear he is the one who acted with indifference, both at the time he killed Jordan and now in his first public message. He never attempted to help him at all. In short, his actions on the train, and now his words, show why he needs to be in prison.

The family is now calling for Mayor Eric Adams to support a possible case against Penny, although the politician has ridiculed the publics judgment towards the 24-year-old, whos a former Marine. Pennys identity was revealed last week when social images of him went viral, showing him as a graduate of West Islip High School and a former player of the schools lacrosse team.

Last Friday (May 5), Pennys lawyers gave a statement expressing their condolences for Neelys death, before referencing his documented history of violent and erratic behavior and pointing out elected officials to address the mental health crisis on our streets and subways." Prior to his death last Monday (May 1), Neely was formerly a Michael Jackson impersonator.

This week, a grand jury is expected to decide whether Penny should be criminally charged for putting Neely in a chokehold that led to his death.
Karnataka SSLC Result 2023: Class 10 results declared; Check direct link, steps to download here

Bengaluru

oi-Deepika S

Karnataka School Examinations and Assessments Board on Monday declared Karnataka SSLC Result 2023. Students can now check their class 10 results on the official site of Karnataka Results at karresults.nic.in at 11 am.

The overall pass percentage stood at 85.63 per cent. The pass percentage of girls stood at 90.29 per cent while 80.08 per cent of boys cleared the exam.

The Karnataka class 10 exams were held between March 31 and April 15, 2023, in a single shift from 10,30 am to 1:30 pm. Students must obtain a minimum of 35 per cent in each subject and overall to pass the exam.

Karnataka SSLC Class 10 Result 2023: How to check

Visit the official website at karresults.nic.in

On the homepage, click on the Karnataka SSLC Class 10 result link

Now, fill in key details like registration number and date of birth

Submit and Karnataka SSLC Class 10 result will be displayed on the screen

Download and keep a printout for future reference

In 2022, the Karnataka SSLC Class 10th exam was conducted from March 28, 2022 to April 11. The result was out on May 19. Nearly 8 lakh students had appeared in the exam, out of which 85.63 per cent cleared the exam.

Students can also check their Karnataka SSLC 2023 via SMS, and Digilocker.

Go to messaging app on your mobile phone.

On the message section, type your roll number in this format: KAR10Roll number.

Now, send the message to the number 56263.

You will get an SMS with your Karnataka SSLC Result 2023.

Karnataka SSLC Result 2023 will be sent on your phone number.

Check the SMS or take a screenshot for future reference.
Rayshawn Miller, 40, of Buffalo, has pleaded guilty to drug and gun charges before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra Jr., U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced.

Miller, who admitted to possession of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life when he returns July 11 for sentencing.

Prosecutors said U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agents executed a search warrant July 20, 2021, at Miller's home on Broadway and seized 167 grams of mixed fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl, 21 grams of crack cocaine, 124 grams of cocaine, two pistols, ammunition and $15,380 in cash.
Fact Check: Is this an image of people looting a shop in violence-hit Manipur

Fact Check: This video of burqa-clad women fighting is not from Bengaluru

Fact Check: This video of an Army chopper crash is from J&K, not Rajasthan

Fact Check: This tractor march has nothing to do with ongoing wrestlers protest

Fact Check

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The wrestlers have been protesting at Jantar Mantar demanding action against Wrestling Federation of India president Brij Bhushan over sexual harassment charges.

Amid this a photograph has gone viral of the Khap Panchayats taking part in the protest. A video of a large tractor rally has been shared on the social media with the claim that more people are joining the protests. It was claimed that farmer were on their way to the protest site. In the video the Tricolour can be seen attached to the tractors.

The video was shared by Deepak Khatri of the Congress. While he later went on to delete the video, the same had been shared several times.

Fact Check: Is this an image of people looting a shop in violence-hit Manipur

OneIndia has learnt that the video that has been shared has nothing toScreenshot 2023-05-08 at 1.30.52 PM.png do with the wrestlers' protest. It was a rally that was taken out by the Kerala Youth Congress in support of the farmer protest in 2021.

We found this Facebook post from January 3 2021. According to the post, the video was from a Kisan March held by the Youth Congress workers from Kerala in support of the farmers' protest that took place in 2021. The farmers had been protesting against the farm laws which were introduced by the Union Government that year.

The tractor rally was organised in Palakkad in Kerala as per media reports. Many Congress leaders can be heard in the video seeking support for the farmers who were protesting in Delhi at that time.

Fact Check: NDTV opinion poll giving Congress majority in Karnataka is viral

Hence it is clear that the video of the tractor with the Tricolour approaching the site where the wresters are protesting is in fact old. They are from 2021 when the Congress party in Kerala organised a rally in support of the farmers who were protesting the farm laws in Delhi.

Fact Check Claim Tractor rally taken out to support wrestlers protest in Delhi Conclusion The image is from 2021 and the protest was in support of the farmer protest Rating False Raise your request for FACT CHECKING. Mail us at [email protected]

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 14:19 [IST]
Chill in ties: Disengage first, Rajnath tells China after he refuses to shake hands with counterpart

OPINION: India must keep tabs on Chinas links in Maldives!

Feature

lekhaka-Jagdish N Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's recent visit to Maldives is sure to boost the ties between New Delhi and Male. India must, however, remain cautious about the Maldives' domestic political scenario. China has had aggressive designs against India in the region. It may use the Maldives' Opposition, under former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, to sideline India.

The dialogue Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had with his Maldives counterpart Mariya Didi in Male last week is sure to boost further the ties between the two nations.

During his visit, Singh also met President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Observers say that he had a very warm exchange of views with them on the entire gamut of the two nations' relations. During the visit, he handed over a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The patrol vessel is capable of coastal and offshore surveillance at high speeds.

Foundations of ties between India and Maldives are very strong. The two nations have been connected with each other in cultural, ethnic and economic terms since ancient times. The origins of Dhivehi (the Maldivian language) harken back to Sanskrit and Pali, the roots of many southern Indian languages.

India and Maldives together have responsibility for regional peace and security: S Jaishankar

After Maldives attained independence in 1966, India was amongst the first nations to recognise it. In 1976, India and Maldives signed a maritime boundary treaty which places Minicoy on the Indian side. In 1981, the two nations signed a comprehensive trade agreement.

In recent years, India and Maldives have signed several agreements, including $500 million in grants and financing to support maritime connectivity and an $800-million line-of-credit from India's Exim Bank.

Today, India's military presence in Maldives includes reconnaissance aircraft, military helicopters and personnel. It is also believed to include officers of our Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). India and Maldives conduct Ekuverin, an annual joint military exercise, every year. This exercise aims to enhance the interoperability between the Indian Army and MNDF.

The Indian Navy and the MNDF cooperate on maritime information sharing and domain awareness. They work together closely in several bilateral, mini-lateral and multilateral fora, such as the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium and the Colombo Security Conclave.

During their fourth Defence Cooperation Dialogue (DCD), chaired by our Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and his Maldivian counterpart Major General Abdulla Shamaal, at Male in March this year, India and Maldives decided to further boost bilateral defence ties.

India has contributed a lot to the security of the Maldives from time to time. In 1988, the Indian armed forces conducted 'Operation Cactus' and helped the Maldives foil a coup d'etat attempt. In the wake of a drinking water crisis in Male in 2014, India came to its rescue. During the COVID-19 crisis of 2020, New Delhi provided $150-million currency-swap support to help the Maldives mitigate the financial impact of the pandemic.

However, India must remain cautious about Maldives' domestic political scenario. China has had aggressive, anti-India designs in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Today, things are fine for India. Maldive President Solih is fully appreciative of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

His is an 'India First' policy in the region. He appreciates that India has always been a "reliable ally to Maldives, through thick and thin." President Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), too, is for better ties between New Delhi and Male.

But presidential elections are due in the Maldives in September this year. The main contest is likely to be between incumbent President Solih and former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom of the Progressive Party of Maldives. If Yameen returns to power, China may reach out to him again to sideline India in the region.

Maldives supports India's candidature for UNSC non-permanent membership

Beijing is likely to find it easy to win over Yameen. During the latter's presidency (2013-18) in Maldives, Male and Beijing were very close to each other. China obliged Maldives with financial aid worth $3 billion. In 2014, then President Yameen endorsed Chinese supremo Xi Jinping pet project Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He granted China large-scale infrastructure contracts, including a bridge connecting the main Maldivian island, port facilities and an airport. In 2017, President Yameen signed free trade and maritime agreements with China.

Besides, Yameen has been rabidly anti-India. In 2018, Maldives excluded India from its list of 'friendly nations'. He has in the recent years led the 'India Out' campaign in Maldives.

The observers add if Yameen returns to power, it might help radical Islamists conduct their anti- India activities from the island nation. Traditionally, the Maldives has been a land of moderate Islam. But Yameen has always encouraged militant Islam in the country.

(Jagdish N. Singh is a senior journalist based in New Delhi. He is also Senior Distinguished Fellow at the Gatestone Institute, New York)

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of OneIndia and OneIndia does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
Manipur violence: No untoward incident reported in last two days, Centre tell SC

Around 60 dead, 231 injured in Manipur violence: CM Biren Singh

India

oi-Prakash KL

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said that around 60 people have died in the recent clashes in the northeastern state.

"Around 60 innocent people have lost their lives, 231 people suffered injuries and around 1700 houses burned down in the unfortunate incident of May 3," N Biren Singh said.

He also appealed to people to bring peace and calm to the state. "Transportation of stranded persons to their respective locations has started," he added.

Violent clashes broke out in the northeastern state after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis, which account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population, live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals (Nagas and Kukis) constitute another 40 per cent of the population and they live in the hill districts.

The Manipur CM said that 20,000 stranded persons have been evacuated till now. "Around 10,000 people remain stranded. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been monitoring the situation from the day of the incident till today. He has sent many companies of Central forces," Biren Singh said.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre and the Manipur government to take necessary steps for raising security and relief and rehabilitation efforts for those hit by ethnic violence in the north-eastern state, while taking note of submissions that no untoward incidents have been reported there in the last two days.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre as well as the state government, informed the bench about the steps taken to deal with the violence and said 52 companies of the central armed police force, besides Army and Assam Rifles contingents, have been deployed in the strife-torn areas.

The apex court posted the pleas related to Manipur violence for further hearing on May 17 and asked the Centre and state to file updated status reports by then.

More than 23,000 people have been rescued and sheltered in military garrisons and relief camps.
If Yogi can why not Gehlot: Vasundhara Raje on establishing peace

Seems like his leader is Raje, not Sonia Gandhi: Pilot attacks Gehlot

Big conspiracy: Vasundhara Raje counters Ashok Gehlot claims she saved his govt in 2020

India

oi-Deepika S

Senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje on Sunday hit back at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over his claim that she saved his Congress government from toppling in 2020. Raje alleged that Gehlot is lying out of fear of losing the 2023 assembly elections.

"Ashok Gehlot praising me is a big conspiracy. No one can insult me as much as Gehlot did in his life, He has made such false allegations as he is rattled by the rebellion in his own party", Vasundhara Raje said in a statement.

Addressing a programme in Dholpur, Ashok Gehlot on Sunday claimed Vasundhara Raje and two other BJP leaders had helped save his government during the 2020 revolt by his party MLAs.

Gehlot said that his government could be saved because of the support of three BJP leaders - former chief minister Vasundhara Raje, former assembly speaker Kailash Meghwal and MLA Shobharani Kushwah.

"Amit Shah, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Dharmendra Pradhan conspired together to topple my government. They distributed money in Rajasthan and they are not taking the money back now. I am surprised why they are not demanding the money back from them the MLAs," he claimed.

"I have even told the MLAs that whatever money they have taken, Rs 10 crore or Rs 20 crore, if you have spent anything, I will give that part or I will get it from AICC," he said.

Gehlot alleged that if the MLAs did not return the money, they will always be under pressure from Amit Shah.

"He is the Union home minister, he will intimidate...in Maharashtra he divided Shiv Sena," Gehlot alleged.

He said that he was made the chief minister by the party for a third time and it was his duty to take all along and forget past happenings and ensure the return of the party to power in the assembly elections, slated for later this year.

Gehlot and Raje have often been accused by their detractors in their own parties of going soft on each other, especially when it came to allegations of corruption.

The two leaders have denied any such understanding. A few days ago, Raje had rejected allegations of collusion with Gehlot as lie, saying milk and lemon juice never mix.

with PTI inputs

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 8:54 [IST]
BJP believes in public service and performance: Rajeev Chandrasekhar

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Election campaign in Karnataka has reached a feverish pitch and all eyes are now on the single-phase polling on May 10.

While the opinion polls have shown mixed results, the pollsters maintain that it is a tough election to take a call. While BJP was lagging at the initial stage, the analysts say that the massive rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi could have changed the fortunes of the party.

In an exclusive chat with this correspondent, Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology and senior BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar, discussed the issues at hand threadbare. He asserted that the BJP is heading towards a historic decisive majority in Karnataka this time too. Excerpts:

What is your assessment of the elections so far?

I think it is clear that BJP is heading towards an historic decisive majority and voters are responding to PM Narendra Modi's call for 'Ee baari nirdhara, Bahumata BJP Sarkara'. Our campaign, both at the direct voter interaction level, media and social media is really doing well and is seeing tremendous response from people across the State. I have worked in 2018 elections also and this time also have the privilege of working with my party's leaders and 'karyakartas', and I can safely say this - that the atmosphere in our party is a determined one, i.e. to ensure Karnataka's development continues unhindered.

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What is the key aspect of the BJP campaign. It is very rare for Karnataka voters to repeat a government.

Our central focus is what our PM always says - public service and performance. PM Modi has ushered in a new political culture of performance and delivery over the last 9 years in India and last 3 and half years in Karnataka. Today, people all over India and Karnataka want governments and leaders they can trust to serve them - to perform and to deliver; to help them build a better future. That is BJP. Our report card of performance of last 3 and half years, the speed of our work and our resolute fight to change the culture of corruption is our report card and basis of our pro-incumbency campaign. More than anyone else, PM Modi represents these values and is leading from the front.

People of Karnataka have rarely repeated governments because in the last 65 years, it has been Congress or JDS or both. Both these parties have given no reason whatsoever to be repeated. People earlier had no choice but today, they have PM Modi and BJP.

Congress is also running a tough and highly visible campaign. Your thoughts on it?

There are many leaders in Congress that certainly have popular support. But as a party, Congress is increasingly irrelevant to the discourse about the future of India or Karnataka. Their politics is the same 65-year old one and, despite having leadership of the most recent member of the dynasty, continues to be stuck in the 70s and 80s type of politics. Some one seems to have advised them that it is very clever to be campaign using lies, fake guarantees and appeasement; and they are doing that. It is astonishing that country's oldest party is reduced to trotting out patent lies every days, hoping that they can mislead the voters. The list of lies is long and it seems to be a strategy that Congress from top to bottom - Rahul, DK and Siddaramaiah - all seem heavily over-invested in it. It's laughable and shameless both to hear them lying every day, insulting the intelligence of the people of the State. In addition to their lies, their campaign strategy has two other pillars - fake guarantees and appeasement. Both are doomed to fail because this is Karnataka 2023 and not the old Karnataka when old Congress shenanigans worked.

Congress trying to separate Karnataka from India: PM Modi

The Congress manifesto promises a ban on Bajrang Dal and vows to reverse many decisions of the BJP government. Your thoughts on the same?

Congress knows very well that the people don't trust them, leave apart to ever vote them to form a government. So, the manifesto is meaningless and you can see the public response to that document. But certainly their manifesto gives people an insight into their political thinking. In a nutshell, politics for the Congress is a game - it's a power grabbing attempt; and they will say, do and promise anything to get the keys of the Exchequer. I have said repeatedly that Congress is no longer a political party, it's more of a collection of private interests masquerading as a political party.

Amit Shah coined the phrase for Congress - ''Reverse gear party''. It has no concern for anything but money and appeasing its vote banks like PFI and SDPI. The ban on Bajrang Dal is nothing but playing to their vote bank regardless of how wrong it is to equate it with a terror organisation like this. Promise of persisting with unconstitutional Muslim reservation is yet another shameless appeasement politics. Why no mention of Christians, Sikhs, Jains and other minorities? Congress never did anything for Kashmiri Pandits who are minorities in J&K. Congress is a very very strange party that always reeks of hypocrisy and doublespeak. Always politics and opportunism and never people or development.

Take, for example, their interest in withdrawing National Education Policy. NEP is the biggest reform that has been taken up for young Indians since Independence. It empowers and prepares young Kannadigas for all the opportunities that are coming up now and in future. Under the Congress, 3 out every 4 Kannadiga in workforce was unskilled. NEP makes sure no youth leaves school without skills. It enables children to study and grow in their own mother tongue. Congress wants to deny young Kannadigas a bright future as long as they appease their vote bank. It is a very destructive party.

Our politics is a sharp contrast from this Congress politics. 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' is core to our PM's governance. Equitable opportunities to all without any discrimination to any one regardless of caste, religion, gender or region. Our politics is about performance and speed of double development.

What are your thoughts on PM's visit to Bengaluru?

We are all proud to welcome our PM to our Bengaluru. He was here for two days and campaigned for all our candidates. He loves Bengaluru as a city and the Bengalureans. Bengaluru is a global city and also our State's proud capital. It represents the future of our country as well represents our deep culture and heritage as Kannadigas. PM Modi has a clear vision to make Bengaluru a modern global city which is also home to lakhs of people who study, live and work here. As a State capital region, Bengaluru has a bright future if we can elect all BJP candidates from the city and show the door to so many of these Congress MLAs, who have for years squatted on their constituencies with no development and only allowed vested interests to exploit our city. The two-day road show of PM Modi saw more than 10 lakh people who came to see him and bless him.

Karnataka Elections 2023: Veerashaiva Lingayat forum extends support to Congress

Will JDS play a key role in these elections?

People of Karnataka are tired of instability and how coalition politics only help in making the corrupt and the vested interests happy and exploit our State. This time, they have seen 'BJP Double Engine Sarkara' at work and want 5 more years of the same - stable and double-speed development and improved lives.

Your comments on the remarks by Kharge and his son?

I am surprised to see how even a senior leader like Kharge has been drawn into this ''abuse PM'' strategy of the top to bottom of the Congress party. Our PM is determined to clean up India's politics and build a better politics for our future generations. All the corrupts and vested-interests are threatened by our PMs strength, resolve and determination. The list of people who abuse our PM range from Congress crooks to terror States in our neighbourhood. Our PM shrugs off all these insults and works harder.

Congress has advertised corruption rate card and talked of 40 per cent commission and guarantee cards. Your views?

For the Congress to talk about corruption is biggest joke on the planet. Their leadership is the poster boy of political corruption and are trying hard to float this 40 per ent commission canard to distract from their long illustrious careers of exploitation and corruption.

As I said, Congress is reduced to a political strategy of lies, fake guarantees and appeasement. They had 65 years of opportunity in government but instead of serving the people, they exploited them. If they would have done good work and served people well, they would not have had to resort to lies, fake guarantees and appeasement in their politics.

Congress and JDS represent old style crooked politics - they want to take Karnataka backwards in reverse gear whereas BJP is a party that wants to take Karnataka forward.

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 12:11 [IST]
Do laws apply to PM Modi or not? Cong files complaint with EC over poll code violation

BJP goes to EC over Sonia Gandhi's 'sovereignty of Karnataka' remark

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday moved the Election Commission seeking action against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and derecognition of her party for her use of the term 'sovereignty' for Karnataka during the state poll campaign.

A BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll watchdog over the issue.

Union minister and BJP MP Shobha Karandlaje said, "Today we gave a complaint against Sonia Gandhi to Election Commission. She gave a speech in Hubbali in which she talked about the sovereignty of Karnataka. We use sovereignty for the country. She is heading the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang. We demanded that FIR should be registered against her."

The BJP's argument asserts that Karnataka is an integral part of India, and since the country attained independence from the British, there is no merit in discussing the independent sovereignty of a particular state.

The term 'sovereignty' used by Sonia Gandhi sparked negative reactions from the ruling BJP, providing them with new ammunition to attack the grand old party and its pre-election campaign ahead of the May 10 assembly elections.

During her initial rally in the state on Saturday, the former party president faced harsh criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other BJP leaders, and netizens who strongly objected to a sentence from her speech. She stated that the Congress party would not permit anyone to endanger 'Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty, or integrity'.

"Sonia Gandhi sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: the Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity," read the tweet sparking a massive row ahead of the D-Day in Karnataka.

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Congress trying to separate Karnataka from India: PM Modi

A day after Sonia's comments went viral, Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly criticised the Congress party for its 'open advocacy of Karnataka's secession from India', and asserted that the voters would give a befitting reply on May 10. He questioned the electorate if they could endorse such secessionist ideas and highlighted that the Congress party had expressed its desire to safeguard the sovereignty of the state in Karnataka.

The Prime Minister explained that this statement implies that the Congress thinks that Karnataka has seceded from India, which is a blatant insult to the patriotism of Kannadigas. He urged voters to turn out in large numbers on May 10 and vote for the BJP, making Karnataka the top state.

Referring to the comments, the prime minister said the "disease of the 'tukde-tukde gang' (anti-national elements) has reached the top level of the Congress".

A report published by Siasat quoted PM Modi as saying: "When it comes to working against India's interests, Congress' royal family will be at the forefront. I want to speak about a serious issue here, I want to say it as there is a lot of pain in my heart. This country can never forgive such a game. This family, to influence the politics in the country, is encouraging foreign forces to interfere."
Let us be loud, let us not remain mute when we say the Islamists have radicalised South India

Blast reported on busy heritage street near Golden Temple, second explosion in two days

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

A low-intensity explosion was reported at Heritage Street near the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Monday morning, a day after a similar blast took place in the area leaving one injured.

The incident happened around 6.30 in the morning. Forensic teams have been dispatched to the scene to collect samples for analysis. No injuries or damages have been reported so far, and the police have yet to release an official statement regarding the explosion.

Residents in the surrounding area heard the blast and observed smoke in the vicinity. An unidentified individual hung an explosive device, or bomb, in the parking lot on Heritage Street, resulting in the explosion.

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On Saturday night, one person suffered minor injuries and glass facades of some buildings were damaged in an explosion on a heritage street near the Golden Temple.

The explosion, the cause of which is not yet known, was reported near an eating joint Saturday night, they said.

The blast was heard within one-km radius of the Golden Temple.
Why no action against them? Kerala HC pulls up govt on Tanur boat accident

BJP does this for 'cheap political gains': Cong on UP making 'The Kerala Story' tax-free

Chronology of boat accidents in Kerala in the past 10 decades

India

pti-PTI

Twelve boat tragedies, including the one at Tanur in Malappuram district of Kerala on Sunday, have claimed over 200 lives in the state in the past 10 decades.

Following is the chronology of boat tragedies starting from 1924 to the one on May 7, 2023 that claimed 22 lives:

1924: 24 persons drowned when a boat from Kollam to Kottayam sank at Palana. Mahakavi Kumaranasan, one of the triumvirate poets of Kerala, died in the tragedy.

24 persons drowned when a boat from Kollam to Kottayam sank at Palana. Mahakavi Kumaranasan, one of the triumvirate poets of Kerala, died in the tragedy. March 19, 1980: 30 lives were lost when a ferry carrying pilgrims of a local church at Kannamaly in Kochi sank.

30 lives were lost when a ferry carrying pilgrims of a local church at Kannamaly in Kochi sank. September 25, 1983: 18 persons died in a boat tragedy while they were returning after a church feast in Vallarpadam area of Ernakulam district.

18 persons died in a boat tragedy while they were returning after a church feast in Vallarpadam area of Ernakulam district. July 27, 2002: 29 people died when a heavily loaded A53 boat of the Kerala Water Transport department, which left from Muhamma in Alappuzha, capsized in the Vembanad Lake near Kumarakom in Kottayam district of the state. The deceased included 15 women and a nine-month-old baby, besides several job aspirants who were on their way to Kottayam to appear for a PSC exam.

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August 30, 2004: 7 boat workers drowned off Kollam coast.

7 boat workers drowned off Kollam coast. January 2, 2005: 4 persons, including an Arab, drowned in Vembanad Lake.

4 persons, including an Arab, drowned in Vembanad Lake. February 20, 2007: A school picnic turned into a tragedy when 14 children and three teachers died when the boat they were riding on took on water due to a leak and overturned at Thattekad near the Periyar river in Ernakulam district of the state. It was later revealed that there were 61 passengers on the boat which had a maximum capacity of six.

A school picnic turned into a tragedy when 14 children and three teachers died when the boat they were riding on took on water due to a leak and overturned at Thattekad near the Periyar river in Ernakulam district of the state. It was later revealed that there were 61 passengers on the boat which had a maximum capacity of six. September 30, 2009: 45 tourists died when a double-decker passenger boat, Jalakanyaka, capsized in one of the deepest parts of the Mullaperiyar reservoir. There were over 80 passengers on the boat which had a capacity of 75.

45 tourists died when a double-decker passenger boat, Jalakanyaka, capsized in one of the deepest parts of the Mullaperiyar reservoir. There were over 80 passengers on the boat which had a capacity of 75. December 12, 2011: 2 persons died when a boat capsized at Kuthiyathodu in Alappuzha district of the state.

2 persons died when a boat capsized at Kuthiyathodu in Alappuzha district of the state. January 26, 2013: 4 persons died when a passenger boat capsized in the Punnakkad area of Alappuzha.

4 persons died when a passenger boat capsized in the Punnakkad area of Alappuzha. June 11, 2013: Two died when a 'shikara' capsized in the Punnakkad area of Alappuzha.

Two died when a 'shikara' capsized in the Punnakkad area of Alappuzha. May 7, 2023: 22 people, majority of them women and children, died when a double-decker recreational boat capsized while on a boat ride near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in the Tanur area of Malappuram district.
CM Baghel rubbishes allegations of liquor scam in Chhattisgarh, terms ED 'agent' of BJP

India

pti-PTI

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday called the Enforcement Directorate an "agent" of the Bharatiya Janata Party and dubbed the ED's claim of unearthing an alleged liquor scam in the state as false and baseless. As the Assembly polls were nearing in the state, the "disappointed" BJP was trying to defame the Congress government using the ED, he claimed.

The state polls are due this year-end.

The ED on Saturday arrested liquor businessman Anwar Dhebar, the brother of Congress leader and Raipur Mayor Aijaz Dhebar, in connection with an alleged liquor scam. In its remand application filed in a special court here seeking remand of Anwar, the ED claimed there was a "massive scam" in liquor trade in Chhattisgarh by a syndicate, comprising high-level state government officials, private persons and political executives, that generated corruption money of more than Rs 2,000 crore between 2019-22.

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The ED said Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Anil Tuteja was the kingpin of the syndicate along with Anwar and the corruption money was also used for electioneering. Tuteja, a 2003 batch IAS officer, is posted as joint secretary in state's industry and commerce department.

Talking to reporters at a helipad in Raipur, Baghel said, The allegation of Rs 2,000 crore liquor scam in the state has been levelled by the ED just to save its reputation after it failed to unearth anything during its raids and investigation.

The allegation is completely false, baseless and condemnable." Baghel claimed the ED and other central agencies have been acting as "agent" of the BJP. Their only work is to ensure the BJP benefits in elections, he said. But, no matter how many conspiracies the central agency hatches, the BJP will not succeed. The Congress government will expose every conspiracy of BJP leaders and the ED, the CM said.

He also termed the ED's claim of decline in revenue collection from liquor in the state as baseless and said the data shows a significant rise in revenue collected from liquor sale under the current Congress government as compared to the previous BJP regime.

It was the Raman Singh-led BJP government's decision to sell liquor through a corporation in 2017 in the state. No change was made in distilleries, officers, transporters and placement agencies linked to the liquor trade in the state since 2017.

The revenue collection from liquor increased from Rs 3,900 crore in 2017-18 to Rs 6,000 crore in 2022-23 which clearly shows that the ED's claim of decline in revenue collection due to alleged corruption is baseless, Baghel said.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has conducted audits of the state's excise department and given it a clean chit, he claimed. The opposition BJP is left with no issues to raise in Chhattisgarh. Out of disappointment, it has been using the ED to hatch a conspiracy to defame the state government as the Assembly election is nearing in the state, the CM said. In February 2020, the Income Tax department from Delhi carried out searches against those linked to the excise (liquor trade) in the state, he said.

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But it is a matter of shame that the agency could not even reveal how much movable or immovable assets were recovered from whom. Again in March this year, the ED conducted raids which also turned out to be a failure as the anti-money laundering agency did not issue any press note about recovery made during the searches, Baghel said.

He claimed the ED forced people to sign on false statements by threatening and torturing them. They even deliberately interrogated women till late night to harass them, he said claiming the agency indulged in propagating a fictitious story of the scam through conspiracy and terror.
Congress writes to Delhi LG seeking probe into 'extaravagant' spending on Kejriwal's house

India

oi-Prakash KL

The Congress has written to Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena for a probe into the "extravagant" expenditure in the construction of Arvind Kejriwal's residence and asked him to grant sanction to prosecute the Chief Minister, if found guilty.

In a letter to the LG, Congress senior spokesperson Ajay Maken said he is writing to express his deep concern and disappointment regarding the "extravagant" expenditure, environmental damage, and violation of heritage protection and zonal plans in the construction of the chief minister's residence in Delhi.

"The construction of the new CM house has cost the exchequer around Rs 171 crore, with 15 out of 22 officers' houses adjacent to CM's house at Flagstaff Road being demolished or got vacated. The rest have been asked to not re-allot with time. This figure (Rs 171 crore) includes around Rs 126 crore spent on purchasing 21 new Type 5 flats in the CWG Village to compensate for the housing shortage," the former Delhi Congress chief said.

"I thus request you to conduct an inquiry in the matter. And if found guilty, grant sanction for prosecution of the principal beneficiary, the chief minister, and the principal perpetrator, the PWD minister of GNCTD," Maken said. Noting that the new CM house has violated the Master Plan Delhi (MPD) 2021, he alleged that it has been constructed in the Civil Lines Old Bungalow Zone, an area protected under MPD 2021.

The previous residence was a single-storey colonial-style building, which has been replaced by a three-storey structure with a basement with a covered area of around 20,000 sq feet (almost double of the previous covered area), the former Union minister said. This construction directly contradicts the MPD 2021 provisions, which aim to preserve the heritage and character of Lutyens Bungalow Zone and Civil Lines Old Bungalow Zone, he said.

The Congress leader has also alleged that 28 full-grown trees have been destroyed in the construction process which contradicts the provisions of MPD 2021 that emphasize the importance of preserving green cover in these protected zones. "The collusion of the PWD Minister to bypass the Secretary/Principal Secretary PWD: Work orders were seemingly split by PWD to keep them below Rs 10 crore, with the intent to avoid approval of the Secretary/Principal Secretary, PWD (for works amounting to more than Rs 10 crore).

"This was allegedly done by engineers of PWD in collusion with the then minister (PWD) Sh. Satyendar Jain, as required by the delegation of financial powers prescribed by the Finance Department of GNCTD," he said in his letter.

Maken also alleged that the expenditure of Rs 171 crore on the construction of the CM house has not been mentioned in the detailed demand for grants while getting the budget approved from the Legislative Assembly. "Furthermore, the Public Works Department (PWD) seemingly used an exemption order from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to bypass the need for sanctioning the building plan from local bodies for 'public purpose' projects.

The construction of the CM house cannot be considered a 'public purpose' project as the exemption was intended for projects like schools and hospitals. "In light of these concerns, I kindly request your immediate intervention to address these issues and ensure that public money is not misused, environmental damage is minimized, and heritage protection and zonal plans are strictly adhered to in future development projects," he said in his letter.

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 22:02 [IST]
A Buffalo woman accused of selling fentanyl in the city's Allentown neighborhood was arrested Friday on numerous drug-related charges, according to the Erie County Sheriff's Office.

Investigators executed a search warrant issued by Buffalo City Court Judge Kevin Keane for Vernise Williams, 39, and her vehicle, which uncovered an unspecified quantity of fentanyl, the Sheriff's Office said.

Williams was charged with one felony count of criminal sale of a controlled substance, four felony counts of criminal possession of a narcotic with intent to sell, three felony counts of criminal sale of a narcotic, two felony counts of criminal possession of a narcotic and one misdemeanor count of criminal possession of a controlled substance.

She was arraigned and released without bail Saturday.

The Sheriff's Office investigation was assisted by the Buffalo Police Narcotics Unit, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force.
'Standing up for such terrorists?' Anurag Thakur slams Bengal govt on 'The Kerala Story' ban

'Dont vote for BJP, they are dangerous': Bengal CM Banerjee to Karnataka voters

India

oi-Prakash KL

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday urged the people of Karnataka not to vote for the BJP in the Karnataka Assembly elections.

Photo Credit:

"My only appeal to brothers and sisters in Karnataka is that please vote for stability and development. I appeal that please do not vote for BJP. They are dangerous," ANI quoted the Bengal CM as saying.

The single-phase election for the 224-member Assembly will be held on May 10. This time, most surveys have indicated that the Congress will emerge victorious in the poll.

Nonetheless, the ruling BJP, banking on PM Modi's popularity, is hoping to retain power.

The Bengal Chief Minister also criticised the BJP government over the violence in Manipur and questioned why no representative was sent to the state.

"I am quite tense with the situation in Manipur. We are not getting a clear picture of the number of deaths in shoot-at-sight (order) as the state government is not giving any information," she said. She also claimed that the Manipur violence is a man-made problem.

The violence broke out in Manipur after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. At least, 54 have reportedly died in the clashes.

Meiteis, which account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population, live mostly in the Imphal valley, while tribals (Nagas and Kukis) constitute another 40 per cent of the population and they live in the hill districts.

Meanwhile, Mamata Banerjee has also announced that it is banning controversial movie 'The Kerala Story' in West Bengal. Thus it has become the first state in the country to ban the flick although Tamil Nadu has cancelled the screening on Sunday.

"It is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and maintain peace in the state," she said.

With inputs from agencies.
EC asks Congress chief Kharge to clarify Sonia Gandhi's Karnataka sovereignty remark

India

oi-Deepika S

The Election Commission on Monday issued a letter to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge asking to provide clarification on Sonia Gandhi's remarks on Karnataka sovereignty following a complaint by the BJP.

Photo Credit:

"The Election Commission of India today issued a letter to INC President to provide clarification and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the Official INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson CPP," the poll body said in a statement.

A BJP delegation headed by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav had moved the poll body seeking action against Sonia Gandhi over her sovereignty remark.

In its complaint, the BJP has alleged, "Karnataka is a very important member state in the union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous & pernicious consequences."

The BJP also alleged in its complaint to the EC that the tweet is violative of the mandatory oath undertaken by the political parties under section 29A (5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 at the time of registration.

"In view of the above, you are requested to clarify and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson, CPP," the EC letter read.

During her initial rally in the state on Saturday, the former party president faced harsh criticism from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other BJP leaders, and netizens who strongly objected to a sentence from her speech. She stated that the Congress party would not permit anyone to endanger 'Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty, or integrity'.

"Sonia Gandhi sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: the Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity," read the tweet sparking a massive row ahead of the D-Day in Karnataka.
Entire state machinery bows down before one person: 'The Kerala Story' producer slams TN govt

India

oi-Prakash KL

Vipul Shah, the producer of controversial film 'The Kerala Story', has slammed actor-politician Seeman and the Tamil Nadu government after the screening of his flick was stopped on Sunday.

Actor and director Seeman and workers of his party Naam Tamilar Party had protested in Anna Nagar in Chennai near Skywalk Mall demanding a ban on the movie.

The Naam Tamilar Party cadres headed by its organiser, actor and director Seeman started protests in the Chennai Anna Nagar Arch near Skywalk Mall in Chennai against the movie.

"An individual person threatened the state government and stopped the film from being released in Tamil Nadu. Many people are calling us and saying that they want to see this film but they are not able to see it in Tamil Nadu because one person has controlled the entire law and order situation by threatening," ANI quoted him as saying.

The producer then requested the DMK and Congress government to take "some strict" and credible steps against it to ensure that the film releases in the state on Tuesday.

"I want to request the DMK and Congress government to take some strict, creditable steps against it immediately and this film and release the film there tomorrow morning," Shah added.

He also stated that the Madras High Court, the Supreme Court and the Kerala High Court have refused to give a stay on the release of the flick. "So after the orders of these Honorable Courts, one person threatens and the entire state machinery bows down before him. Neither the police give protection to the theatres nor the government takes any action on them, so it seems to me that 'daal mein kuch kaala hai'," added Vipul Shah.

Seeman-led NTK had threatened the cinema halls that the party workers could break the screens and theatres of they screened 'The Kerala Story' despite their opposition to its release.

The actor-politician also appealed to people not to watch the movie.

"I would like to request, those who argue in favour of democracy, this film should be allowed to be released in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Ponderi without any disruption. This film is not running because of only one person. I think DMK and Congress should think about it and will their government be able to control a man and implement the Honourable High Court's order?" Shah stated.

On the other hand, West Bengal has become the first state to officially ban the movie, which is about three girls getting converted and then sold to the Islamic State as sex slaves.
Shivakumar vs Siddaramaiah: Poster War for 'Next CM' Breaks Out in Karnataka

Karnataka: BJP To Do Detailed Analysis To Find Out Reasons For Poll Debacle

Karnataka polls: High-stake battles to watch out for

India

oi-Deepika S

Come May 10, Karnataka will vote for a new government in a single phase in this year's mega Assembly election. The polls will see an intense fight between the ruling BJP, Congress and Janata Dal-Secular (JDS).

In a nutshell, BJP is aiming to retain power in Karnataka, the only southern State where it is in power, while Congress is trying to make a comeback and JDS is battling for its survival. After a high-voltage campaign, especially the back-to-back rallies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, all eyes are now set on the heavyweights.

A total of 2,613 candidates - 2,427 males and only 184 females - are fighting elections this time. The counting of votes will be held on May 13. In the 224-member House, a party needs to win at least 113 seats to attain majority and form government on its own.

BJP goes to EC over Sonia Gandhi's 'sovereignty of Karnataka' remark

In a high-stake battle, Congress has fielded Yasir Ahmed Khan Pathan against Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai from Shiggaon. Bommai won the 2018 Assembly election with a victory margin of 9,265 votes against Sayed Azeem Peer Khadri (Congress).

Former Karnataka Chief Minister and JDS chief H.D. Kumaraswamy is pitted against local strongman C.P. Yogeshwar of BJP, who has represented the constituency five times under different parties.

Varuna segment is set for an interesting battle as Congress stalwart, former Chief Minister and main contender of chief-ministership Siddaramaiah is contesting against V. Somanna from BJP and Dr Bharathi Shankar from JDS. Siddaramaiah is seeking re-election from his old constituency, which he had 'sacrificed' for his son S. Yathindra in 2018.

Kanakapura too is in for a high-profile battle between Congress' State president D.K. Shivakumar and BJP leader R. Ashok. In this Vokkaliga belt, Shivakumar has retained the seat since 2008 and his vote share has only increased over the years.

Sons of former Karnataka Chief Minister late S. Bangarappa - Kumar and Madhu Bangarappa - will once again cross swords in Soraba, a constituency represented by their father. The brothers have been electoral opponents since 2004, even when Bangarappa was alive.

In a battle of prestige, two-time MLA Mahesh Kumathallim is contesting against Laxman Savadi, who joined Congress after being denied a ticket by BJP.

Congress trying to separate Karnataka from India: PM Modi

All eyes would be on Hubballi-Dharwad's central seat with former BJP veteran Jagdish Shettar switching over to Congress. BJP candidate Mahesh Tenginkai has described it as a 'guru-shishya' contest, but the former Chief Minister rejects the billing, saying Tenginkai's "guru is in Delhi".

Somashekar Reddy is fighting to keep his hold on Ballari city with his sister-in-law contesting under G. Janardhana Reddy's KJPP. JDS candidate Anil Lad and Congress greenhorn Bharath Reddy make the battle interesting.

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 14:30 [IST]
Kerala government orders judicial probe into tourist boat tragedy

India

oi-Deepika S

Aday after the tragic tourist boat accident that claimed the lives of 22 people, Kerala government on Monday announced a judicial probe into the matter and decided to give a compensation of Rs ten lakh to the kin of the deceased.

"A comprehensive judicial enquiry will be conducted into the boat accident. Rs 10 lakhs compensation for the dependents of deceased persons. Government will bear the treatment expenses of the injured people. A special team of police will also investigate the incident," said a statement from Kerela chief minister's office.

The tragic incident occurred around 7 pm on Sunday near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in Tanur.

Earlier, PK Kunhalikutty, an MLA of the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML), said overcrowding is believed to have been the reason behind the vessel capsizing. Boats are not supposed to go out for rides after 6 pm but it is believed that the rule was violated in this case, he told PTI.

According to reports, the boat was carrying passengers without a safety certificate which is mandatory for tourist boats. The passengers who boarded the boat were not wearing life jackets and no safety measures were taken.

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Health Minister Veena George called an emergency meeting following the accident to assess the situation, the state government said. George instructed that expert treatment be ensured for the injured and the post-mortem process sped up so that the bodies can be released quickly to the next of kin, the statement said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the deaths and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of each victim.

"Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund) would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased," tweeted the Prime Minister's Office.
Kharge makes emotional appeal on home turf, says he is Karnataka's Bhoomi Putra

India

pti-PTI

Making an emotional appeal to voters in his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday said he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, but he would until his last breath continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests.

Kharge also urged voters to take pride in the fact that he as a "bhoomi putra" of Karnataka had been made AICC president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name. Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to "wipe out" Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a BJP candidate.

It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out "Kharge, his wife and children".

Karnataka polls: High-stake battles to watch out for

"It seems that it might have come into the minds of BJP leaders to finish me off. If not, who will have the courage to say that he wants to finish off Kharge and family? If he has to say it, some BJP leader should be behind him, or else it will not," Kharge said.

Addressing a public meeting here, he said, no one could finish him off easily. "I have Babasaheb's Constitution to protect me, the people of Kalaburagi and Karnataka are behind me. Now after becoming AICC president, the people of the country are behind me. You may finish me and my family... If I go, someone else may emerge," he said.

Rathod rejected the charges outright and said, It is all a lie. They are playing some fake audio. The Congress is leveling baseless allegations fearing defeat".

Further accusing the BJP of going around saying everywhere that they wanted to finish him off as he and his son are speaking against them, the AICC chief said, "Modi is also behaving similarly. Speak about me, why son? He is not to your level. Speak about me it's fine, I've been in politics for 52 years...but why my family?"

Saying that he had lost his entire family once in his childhood and was left alone, he added, "I'm still alive and will continue to live with the blessings of the people." "...let them do whatever they want, but I'm also strong. A man may live up to a hundred years or 90 years, but in India average life is 70 or 71.

BJP goes to EC over Sonia Gandhi's 'sovereignty of Karnataka' remark

I'm already in my bonus period, I'm 81 years now. If I live, I may live for another eight or nine years, no worries. If you want to finish me off before that, finish if your problems will be resolved. I'm ready. "But until I have my last breath, I will continue to fight for the poor and try to protect them. Until you (people) are with me, I have no fear," he added.

Kharge also urged the people of Kalaburagi to ensure that Congress won all seats in the region in "response" to the party making him its national president, suggesting that it was a matter of pride. Pointing out that because of the blessings of the people of Kalaburagi he was in Parliament and had been in the Assembly, and worked in various capacities including Leader of Opposition, Kharge said though he lost the Lok Sabha polls, Sonia Gandhi had made him a Rajya Sabha member and then Leader of Opposition, and above all he has been made the AICC president. "It is a matter of pride of Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), not mine," he said.

Stating that he may die some day, he said, "But Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) has got the post of Congress national president and saving it is in your hand, bringing respect to it is in your hands. Or else others will say Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) was made president but people there didn't even choose an MLA."

Kharge asked the people to ensure that Congress won all the seats in Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts. "You should make sure Congress wins all 13 seats. Then I will get respect and also to those who made me president, and also to you, as I'm no one without you."

In 52 years, he had brought no bad name to his people, he said. "I have fought against JD(S), BJP, Modi in Parliament, I have fought for justice."

Congress trying to separate Karnataka from India: PM Modi

Noting that he had gone to Gujarat for election campaigning, the AICC president said Modi there was urging people to vote for BJP as he was the "bhoomi putra" of Gujarat and Ahmedabad and requested them to save his dignity.

In the same way, Kharge said, he himself was seeking votes from his people in Kalaburagi and Karnataka. "I want to tell Modi now that I'm the 'bhoomi putra' of Karnataka and Gulbarga (Kalaburagi). The right you have in Gujarat, I have here and I should get it. You have done nothing for my place, but I'm asking after working for my region. What have you done to seek votes here?" he asked.
Manipur violence: Curfew relaxed in 11 districts; Centre ready to speak with warring groups

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Life started returning to normalcy in violence-hit Manipur on Monday as curfew was relaxed in 11 districts of the state.

The curfew has been lifted from 5 am to 8 am for Imphal East and Imphal West, 1 pm to 3 pm for Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Kakching, 5 am to 10 am for Jiribam, 8 am to 10 am for Bishnupur, 6 am to 6 pm for Pherzawl, 6 am to 10 am and 1 pm to 3 pm for Chandel and 7 am to 10 am for Churachandpur and Tengnoupal. The curfew imposed under Section 144 of the CrPC.

So far, 23,000 people have been rescued from the violence-hit areas.

According to reports, some 10,000 soldiers, para-military and central police forces have been deployed in Manipur.

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Requesting the warring groups in Manipur to maintain peace, Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region G Kishan Reddy on Sunday said the Central government was ready for talks and settle the issue.

Stating that the Centre was not adamant when it came to people's welfare, Reddy said that it even withdrew three Farm Laws when agriculturists demanded the repeal of the controversial regulations.

"Please come forward to solve the issues in a peaceful manner. The Indian Government is ready. You have seen the farmers' issue. When it was peaceful, we tried to convince them. As the issue was not resolved, we agreed to their demand, and those Bills (three farm laws) were withdrawn. So the Indian Government is not adamant," Reddy told PTI.

He stressed that people's welfare was the government's main agenda and requested Manipur residents to understand this and come forward for talks. He assured them that the government (state or centre) will take care of those who suffered losses due to violence and lost lives in the clashes.

Reddy said after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, during the last eight years discussions were held with several insurgent groups (in the Northeast), and peace prevailed in the region. He said PM Modi would order a comprehensive inquiry into the issue.

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According to him, the situation is under control even as both Central and State governments were taking steps to ensure that peace would prevail soon.

Asserting that the people of Manipur were also Indians, he said it was the responsibility of the state and centre to solve it if there was a problem.

'Is Tamil Nadu burning like Manipur?' MK Stalin slams Governor Ravi

"If they have any problem, it is the responsibility of the state and central government to solve it. We all should observe restraint. We should solve the issue through discussions, but not through violence. Nothing can be achieved through violence. So violence is not the only way," he added.

Riots broke out in Manipur between the Meitei community, which mainly live in Imphal Valley, and the Naga and Kuki tribes who are inhabitants of the hill districts, over the demand of the former for Scheduled Tribe status.

The Meiteis, who make up roughly 53 per cent of Manipur's population, primarily reside in the Imphal valley, while the remaining 40 per cent of the population consists of Tribals, namely Nagas and Kukis, who predominantly live in the hill districts.

(with PTI inputs)
PM Modi met nearly 3,000 people during 7 days of campaign blitzkrieg in Karnataka

India

pti-PTI

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign blitzkrieg dominated the electioneering in Karnataka, a lesser-known aspect of his outreach has been his meetings with nearly 3,000 people old and new party workers and prominent citizens during his seven days of public meetings and roadshows in the state.

Sources said he met around 430 people on the last day of his campaign on Sunday while, a day earlier, he interacted with nearly 450 people.

The prime minister has made it a point to meet people personally before and after rallies and flight trips, they added, noting that he had spoken with more than 300 people on May 5.

Congress trying to separate Karnataka from India: PM Modi

Overall, Modi addressed 18 rallies in the southern state and spoke to party members through a virtual interaction on April 27. He also led six roadshows -- three in Bengaluru and one each in Mysuru, Kalaburagi and Tumakuru.

Sources said the selection of people who met him during the campaign was done meticulously to ensure a good mix of party workers, professionals and prominent citizens of the city. He also met Padma awardees during one of his such interactions.

"These interactions are quite personal. His conversations with party members are also very significant. A lot of people tell him about their past interactions with him. Some people tell him that his or her father worked with him. If there is an old member he recognises, then he enquired about his or her families," a source said.

When seasoned workers get to relive their old memories with Modi, this also helps strengthen their bond further with the party, sources said. Photos of people meeting the prime minister personally often go viral in that city, they added.

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Modi has spearheaded the BJP's campaign as it pulls out all the stops to retain power in the state which has not elected the incumbent party to power since 1985. The BJP has expressed confidence of breaking the precedence while the opposition Congress has also run an intense campaign to come back to power. Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.
Renowned novelist Samaresh Majumdar passes away

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Eminent Bengali litterateur and Sahitya Akademi Award winner Samaresh Majumdar passed away on Monday at a hospital in Kolkata. He was 79.

Majumdar was known for his works of fiction that have captivated readers for decades. Born in West Bengal, India in 1942, Majumdar was one of the most respected writers of contemporary Bengali literature, with a large and loyal following in both India and Bangladesh.

Majumdar began his career as a writer in the 1960s, with his first novel 'Bipasha' published in 1967. Since then, he had written dozens of novels and short stories that have received critical acclaim for their compelling plots, vivid characters, and insightful commentary on society and culture.

One of Majumdar's most notable works is the novel 'Aranyak', which was first published in 1976. 'Aranyak' is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Bengali literature and has been translated into several languages.

Another of Majumdar's most popular works is the novel 'Kaalbela', which was first published in 1983.

Majumdar has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Sahitya Akademi Award for his novel 'Kalbela' in 1997. He has also been honored with the Rabindra Puraskar and the Ananda Puraskar for his contributions to Bengali literature.

Kerala boat tragedy: Death toll climbs to 22, rescue ops underway

In addition to his work as a writer, Majumdar has been involved in various social and political causes throughout his life. He has been an advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly in his home state of West Bengal, and has been a vocal critic of government policies that he sees as harmful to the welfare of ordinary people.

Majumdar is a towering figure in contemporary Bengali literature, whose works have touched the hearts and minds of readers around the world. His insightful observations on human nature, society, and politics have earned him a place among the most respected writers of our time, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of readers and writers for years to come.

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 19:53 [IST]
In 11 Points, the Verdict of the Supreme Court on Maharashtra Crisis Explained

SC issues notice to Bihar govt, others on plea against premature release of Anand Mohan

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Supreme Court on Monday issued notice to Bihar Government and others on slained IAS officer G Krishnaiah's wife Uma Krishnaiah plea challenging premature release of former MP Anand Mohan who was serving life term in the 1994 murder case of then Gopalganj district magistrate G Krishnaiah.

A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice JB Pardiwala issued the notice to Bihar Government and others.

Mohan was released from the Saharsa jail on April 27 following an amendment in Bihar's prison rules.

The petitioner has contended the life imprisonment awarded to the gangster-turned-politician meant incarceration for his entire natural course of life and it cannot be mechanically interpreted to last just 14 years.

Anand Mohan walks out of jail after controversial Bihar prison rule change

"Life imprisonment, when awarded as a substitute for death penalty, has to be carried out strictly as directed by the court and would be beyond application of remission," she said in her petition before the Supreme Court.

Mohan's name figured in a list of more than 20 prisoners who were ordered to be set free by a notification issued by the state's law department earlier this week as they had spent more than 14 years behind the bars.

The remission of his sentence followed an April 10 amendment to the Bihar Prison Manual by the Nitish Kumar government whereby the restriction on early release of those involved in killing of a public servant on duty was done away with.

This, the critics of the state government's decision claim, was done to facilitate the release of Mohan, a Rajput strongman, who could add heft to the grand alliance led by Nitish Kumar in its fight against the BJP. Several others, including politicians, benefited from the amendment to the state prison rules.

Krishnaiah, who hailed from Telangana, was beaten to death by a mob in 1994 when his vehicle tried to overtake the funeral procession of gangster Chhotan Shukla in Muzaffarpur district.

Mohan, then an MLA, was leading the procession.
The Erie County Department of Health has announced that it will no longer give monthly updates on Covid-19 data. Information for April, which is available online, will be the last monthly report.

The Health Department confirmed 1,096 Covid-19 cases in April, down from 3,080 cases in March. The figures do not include at-home tests. There were 15 deaths in April, compared with 36 the previous month.

The announcement noted that the updates are being dropped due to the changing status of the response to the virus. The Covid-19 national emergency ended April 10, and the nationwide public health emergency is due to expire Thursday.

The Health Department and its Office of Epidemiology began issuing weekly updates on Covid-19 in March 2020. Weekly updates were discontinued after the week ending Dec. 17, 2022, and were replaced by monthly reports in January.

The announcement said the Health Department will keep monitoring trends in Covid-19 cases, hospitalizations, deaths and presence of the virus in wastewater. Updates on vaccines and prevention measures also will continue to be provided.

Daily and weekly Covid-19 data are still available through the State Department of Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the announcement noted.
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Tillu Tajpuriya murder: Seven personnel of Tamil Nadu Special Police suspended

India

oi-PTI

Seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who were on duty at a Tihar prison cell when gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death, have been suspended and will be sent back to Tamil Nadu for allegedly standing as mute spectators at the time of the incident, jail officials said on Sunday.

The development comes days after Director General of Delhi Prisons Sanjay Beniwal wrote to the Tamil Nadu Police asking them to take action against its personnel.

A meeting was also conducted with officials of the TNSP regarding the alleged negligence on part of their personnel during which they had assured to take departmental action against their personnel, a jail official had said.

CCTV footage shows how gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed over 90 times in Tihar jail

''The Tamil Nadu Police has now suspended seven of its personnel and called them back,'' a jail official said.

The TNSP personnel were deployed at the cell number eight where the incident took place, the officials said.

The TNSP provides security on the Tihar jail premises.

A CCTV video from Tihar Jail which emerged on social media purportedly showed Tajpuriya being attacked in front of security personnel as well when they were carrying him away after he was stabbed.

Jailed gangster Tillu Tajpuriya killed in Tihar jail

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on Tuesday morning. But he was still alive and was being carried away by the prison security personnel when the accused attacked him for a second time, according to the footage.

In the footage, it appeared that the security personnel remained mute spectators while the assailants kept attacking the gangster.

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Story first published: Monday, May 8, 2023, 11:27 [IST]
Operation Kaveri: Among those rescued from Sudan, one is aged 102

3 dead as IAF's MiG-21 fighter jet crashes in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

At least three civilians died on the ground after an MiG-21 fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed near Dabli area of Hanumangarh in Rajasthan on Monday. However, the pilot of the aircraft is safe.

According to reports, the aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh.

The pilot ejected from the plane and is undergoing treatment at the Suratgarh military hospital, IG, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said. The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, he said "Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.

A probe has been ordered into the incident.

"A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," the Air Force tweeted.

#WATCH | Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed near Hanumangarh in Rajasthan. The aircraft had taken off from Suratgarh. The pilot is safe. More details awaited: IAF Sources pic.twitter.com/0WOwoU5ASi  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

In a statement, the IAF said, "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning". "The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries. An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

The Suratgarh Air Force station is in Ganganagar district which is close to Hanumangarh. SP, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed on the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur. Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said, adding three people were also injured.

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Accrording to initial reports, the house of Ratti Ram was completely damaged besides some nearby houses. A local resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashes on the house of Ratti Ram and wood stored in the house caught fire.

"Local people immediately started efforts to douse flames with the help of water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the local resident told reporters in Hanumangarh. Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.



IAF MiG-21 Bison crashes in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh. The fighter crashed on a house in Bahlolnagar of Pilibanga in Hanumangarh #IndianAirForce #MIG21 #IAFcrash pic.twitter.com/avVJTFaS0h  Priyarag Verma (@priyarag) May 8, 2023

In recent times, the IAF has witnessed a series of crashes involving fighter jets and choppers.

In January, during a routine testing flight, a Mirage 2000 fighter jet crashed, resulting in the tragic deaths of both pilots when their safety equipment failed. The pilots were conducting an 'acceptance sortie' of the Mirage 2000 trainer aircraft, which had recently undergone maintenance by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), based in Bengaluru.
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WATCH: Farmers break barricades at Jantar Mantar to join wrestlers' protest

India

oi-Deepika S

Members of the Bharatiya Kisan Union on Monday clashed with the cops at Jantar Mantar where the wrestlers have been protesting against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

The video shared by news agency PTI showed the farmers breaking the barricades and trying to reach the protest venue.

"A group of farmers were escorted to Delhi's Jantar Mantar. As the farmers were in hurry to reach the protest site, they climbed on the barricades which fell down. They later removed the barricades," the Delhi Police said in a statement.

The police also urged the farmers to remain peaceful and abide by the law.

The Delhi police stepped up security arrangements at Jantar Mantar and in border areas of the city. Vehicles entering Delhi were being checked and pickets were increased at Delhi-Ghazipur, Tikri and Singhu borders.

VIDEO | Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) workers reach Delhi's Jantar Mantar to join wrestlers' protest against WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. pic.twitter.com/ZRu1CH2Vzj  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 8, 2023

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha on Saturday announced a nationwide protest in support of the wrestlers who have been protesting at Jantar Mantar against Brij Bhushan.

The farmers union also demanded the immediate arrest of Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by some of the women wrestlers.

On Thursday, a group of farmers coming to Delhi to visit Jantar Mantar was stopped by the police at the Singhu border, with officials saying 24 of them had been detained.

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Top Indian wrestlers including Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik and Bajrang Punia have been protesting at Jantar Mantar since April 23, demanding the arrest of Brij Bhushan Sharan and his sacking from the post in wake of sexual harassment allegations against him by women grapplers.

On April 28, the Delhi police registered two FIRs against Singh on the basis of complaints filed by seven women wrestlers, including a minor.

The wrestlers set a May 21 deadline to the Centre for accepting their demands.

Meanwhile, WFI chief Singh on Sunday appealed to farmers not to make the 'mistake' and wait for the outcome of the probe, this amid the Samyukta Kisan Morcha extending support to the wrestlers' protest against him.
As people rush to leave violence-hit Manipur, one-way air ticket now costs Rs 20,000

India

oi-Prakash KL

As the situation in Manipur remains tense, there is a mad rush to leave the capital city due to which the price of air tickets has gone up by five to eight times.

A one-side ticket for Imphal to Kolkata, which used to cost just Rs 2500, has now touched Rs 20,000. "As the situation in Manipur remains tense and people are rushing to leave Imphal to go to Kolkata and as well as their hometown. In this tense situation, they are facing a big problem of Air ticket which is almost high with nominal fare," ANI quoted Debjit Dutta, chairman, Indian Association of Tour Operators, West Bengal Chapter, as saying.

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According to Dutta, the price will remain the same for the next few days. "If we talked about flights from Imphal to Kolkata, Air India operated daily one flight in the morning. IndiGo operated four flights from Imphal to Kolkata including connected and direct flight. All flights were packed to capacity for the next two days,"

While a ticket for a business class on Air India is approximately Rs 17,000 on Tuesday, an economy class ticket costs Rs 14,000 for May 11, Dutta stated. However, the ticket price for an Air Asia flight from May 15 is Rs 4,000.

"IndiGo's direct flight on May 10 from Imphal to Kolkata is Rs 11,000 and connected flight have charged Rs 20,000 per head," the chairman added.

On the other hand, AirAsia, Flybig, and Alliance Air ran eight relief flights for the stranded people during the prevailing situation in Manipur and this is Centre's initiative for the safe evacuation of stranded people from the trouble-torn spots of Manipur.

Violent clashes broke out in the northeastern state after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

However, the situation is returning to normalcy in the northeastern state as the central government has deployed paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control.
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US: Hyderabad woman killed in shooting incident in Texas

International

oi-Prakash KL

An Indian-origin woman was one among the nine who were killed by a gunman in Texas in the US on Saturday. She was aged 27.

The victim is identified as Aishwarya Thatikonda. The gun-wielding man opened fire at people outside a mall in Dallas.

The incident occurred when she was out shopping with her friend at the Allen Premium Outlets in the northern suburbs, local media reported. Her friend was also injured in the incident and she is out of danger.

Thatikonda was a resident of Saroornagar in Hyderabad. She was working as a project manager at a private firm in Dallas. She resided and worked in McKinney, Texas. However, her family stayed in Hyderabad. Going by her LinkedIn profile, she was in Dallas for over two years.

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The killed was identified as Mauricio Garcia and was shot dead by a police officer, later.

The Allen Premium Outlets, in a statement, said, "We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country,"

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders," he added.

The gunman acted alone, Brian E Harvey, the chief of police in Allen, Texas, said at a press meet on Saturday night.

According to him, a cop on another assignment heard gunfire and rushed towards the mall. He shot down the killer. The incident occurred around 3:30 pm (local time) at the Allen Premium Outlets, an outdoor shopping centre with more than 120 retailers located about 25 miles north of Dallas, The New York Times reported.

In the clips doing rounds on social media sites, the shooter lying on the ground, dressed in all-black, holding a long rifle, and what appeared to be several rounds of ammo and a tactical vest.

With inputs from agencies.
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Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday she does not plan to pursue further changes to New York's bail laws, an issue that has dominated her first two rounds of budget negotiations as governor.

The intense debate over revising the state's 2019 bail reform legislation was the key reason New York's budget was 32 days late this year.

Hochul won a change to the bail law that will no longer require judges to use the "least restrictive means" to make sure a defendant returns to court.

The update pleased neither bail reform advocates, who argue it went too far in weakening the law, nor critics who say judges should be allowed to consider a defendant's "dangerousness."

But it's more than enough for the governor.

"We are done with bail  under the circumstances that are before me today," the governor said in a meeting with Buffalo News editors and reporters Monday morning.

She said she still supports the basic premise of bail reform, which was meant to make sure people don't languish in jail awaiting court proceedings simply because they can't afford to make bail.

And she said there are other parties, notably prosecutors, who must play a role in making sure people are charged appropriately. But she said the hard-won reform change will limit confusion for judges.

"We accomplished what we needed to do," Hochul said.

Bail reform was one of a number of newsworthy issues Hochul addressed in a 30-minute meeting at The News' offices in Larkinville as she touted the terms of the final state budget that passed last week.

The other topics included:

Budget delays

State legislative leaders said the budget was delayed unnecessarily because Hochul tried to address too many of her policy priorities, such as bail reform and affordable housing, in her budget plan.

The governor on Monday acknowledged she used her budget to push an ambitious agenda.

"Guilty," she said. "Yes, it has a lot of policy. This is the one time of year the governor has a chance to really have a major hand in driving policy."

And, she said, she was willing to pass a budget after its due date in order to see some of her goals achieved.

"It is always easier just to do a budget by the numbers," she said. "That will always be the path of least resistance. But it will never be the path that I choose."

Housing

A highlight of the governor's State of the State address in January was her proposal to build 800,000 units of housing over the next decade.

Hochul said it's an economic development issue, too, because the lack of affordable housing is the main reason people leave New York for other states.

But the State Legislature wouldn't go along with a fundamental provision in the plan  allowing the override of local zoning regulations if communities didn't reach housing growth goals  and Hochul had to drop the provision from the final budget.

"I knew it was ambitious," she said. "I knew it was transformative in its scale. And then, as I saw, these issues do take time."

Hochul said she isn't giving up on the proposal, noting she was elected to a full, four-year term in November, spoke on the issue at a housing conference in December and had a plan prepared by January.

"So the fact that people are saying, 'Well, if you'd only taken the time to build support'  I didn't have time," Hochul said. "But I also didn't want to miss the window to really start the conversation and say, 'We're talking about housing now.' So now I have a year to build consensus and support around a plan."

Housing advocates criticized the budget for not including "just cause," or "good cause," eviction language that makes it harder for landlords to eject residents from their properties.

Hochul said she was worried that the proposed language would prompt landlords to take more properties offline, limiting apartment supply and further driving up the cost of rent.

She said the way to make rental and owner-occupied housing more affordable, allowing more people to stay in their homes, is to encourage the construction of more housing.

Climate change

Hochul had proposed sweeping changes to state energy usage to reduce harmful emissions that are contributing to climate change.

The budget provision that grabbed the most attention called for phasing out natural gas-powered furnaces and appliances in existing homes in New York, with stiff opposition from utilities, Republican legislators and homeowners worried about the cost of conversion.

The more limited provision in the final state budget features an eventual ban on natural gas hookups in newly built homes and many other types of buildings.

Hochul said she ran into the kind of pushback that always greets major changes along these lines.

"This is the future. You know, there was a time when we heated our homes with coal. And I'm sure people didn't like the idea of, like, 'I'm used to coal. I don't want to hurt the guy who brings coal to my house,'" she said. "But, ultimately, the change is for the better. It is good we're not burning coal in our houses to heat them."

She acknowledged a need for major improvements in the electric grid to support this transition from gas to electric. And, she conceded, there is an initial cost to homeowners to convert from gas to electric, but they will see savings over time.

"The whole purpose is to make it easier on our consumers to pay their bills and help transition to the clean energy future," she said.

Nuclear power

The 2021 shutdown of the Indian Point nuclear power plant in Westchester County led to an increase in the use of fossil fuels to generate electricity in the state.

Hochul on Monday said the state has invested in renewable energy, including a $9 billion initiative to bring hydroelectric power from Canada to New York City, and she seemed open to reviving nuclear power production in the state.

"We've had a lot of advocates come to us and there seems to be a change in people's attitudes about nuclear," Hochul said in response to a question.

The aging Indian Point plant was shut down in part because of concerns about its proximity to New York City. Three other nuclear plants remain in less populated parts of upstate New York.

"The environmental advocates in some circles are talking about this, too, as a better option than staying longer on natural-gas and fossil-fuel generated power," Hochul said.
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A Russian-built MiG-21 jet suffered an "onboard emergency" and crashed into a house in the western state of Rajasthan. The Cold War-era Soviet plane, in the skies since 1955, was once the backbone of India's Air Force.
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The widow of a Buffalo firefighter says her husband was killed when allowed to enter a burning vacant Theater District building, despite "unreasonably dangerous conditions."

Sarah Tierney, in a notice of claim against the City of Buffalo and the Fire Department, said her husband, Jason Arno, 37, and other firefighters entered the building at 745 Main St., despite department officials knowing the building was vacant.

'This is felt throughout the country': Hundreds line Delaware Avenue for fallen Buffalo firefighter As light snow fell across the city, at least 1,000 firefighters and first responders in their dress uniforms and white gloves filled Franklin Street in front of St. Joseph Cathedral for the funeral of Buffalo Firefighter Jason Arno.

Tierney also cited other issues:

 Failure of the city to sufficiently train and supervise Arno and his supervisors.

 Failure to adequately inspect firefighting equipment.

 Failure to follow proper mayday, evacuation and man-down procedures.

 Failure to provide Arno and other firefighters with proper and adequate equipment, including gloves, turnout gear, panic buttons, mayday equipment, helmets, hoses and radios.

She is represented by attorney Charles S. Desmond II of the Gibson, McAskill & Crosby law firm.

Destroyed in the blaze was DC Theatricks, a costume shop, which listed its address as 747 Main St.

The notice cites conscious pain and suffering and wrongful death, among other claims, which the notice states were caused by the "negligence, recklessness and carelessness" of the city and the Fire Department.

The department did not comply with the "two in/two out" policy, failing to ensure that at least two firefighters remained in visual or voice contact with one another at all times, according to the notice of claim.

As the first fire crew arrived at the March 1 fire, according to radio dispatches, firefighters reported heavy smoke pouring out of the first floor of the three-story building on a part of Main Street filled with commercial storefronts.

"At this time, let's start a second alarm," a fire official told dispatch.

As more crews were called to the scene, several firefighters went inside to investigate the source of the fire.

They quickly reported to dispatch that there was "heavy fire" in the back of the building, and later reported it was about halfway into the building.

An 'incredible outpouring of support': Hundreds pay respects at Buffalo Firefighter Jason Arno's wake The day before Buffalo Firefighter Jason Arno's funeral, which is expected to draw thousands of mourners, including firefighters from around the country and over the border, dozens came to pay their respects at his wake.

Within minutes, the commander on the scene reported "heavy, heavy fire," and told dispatch to raise the fire to a third alarm.

Then, the commander can be heard saying: "Everyone out. Dispatcher, pull everybody out of here. The fire has too much of a head start. ... We're going to go defensive on this."

It is believed debris fell on Arno as a blast blew a fellow crew member away from him.

A frantic exchange of dispatches followed.

"Engine 2, are you all accounted for?" a voice asked.

"We do have a confirmed missing member," a voice can be heard telling dispatch.

A city spokesman said the city does not comment on pending litigation.
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Two juveniles have been charged with making a terroristic threat in connection with an incident April 20 that caused all schools in Genesee County to be placed on "lockout/secure" status, the Batavia Police Department announced.

Police said the children, aged 12 and 13, were attending Notre Dame High School in Batavia and threatened to shoot up a school during a phone call to a suicide hotline.

According to the report, police officers went to all schools in the county and put them under "lockout/secure" measures, during which no one can enter or leave the school buildings, but classes can continue.

Police said detectives quickly determined that there was no threat to the schools, and all were released from lockout.

Since all juvenile actions are confidential, police added, no more information will be released in connection with the case.
A panel of American experts on religious liberty has once again urged their government to censure India for its treatment of minority faiths. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) latest report suggests that India should be added to a list of countries that severely violate the rights of...
China said on Saturday that the Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan was left over from history and should be resolved as per the UN resolutions while avoiding any unilateral action.

This came in a joint statement issued after talks between the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang his Pakistani counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. This was the 4th round of the 'Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue'.

The China-Pakistan joint statement also comes after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar last week rebuked Pakistan, saying that the neighboring country should answer when they will 'vacate the illegally occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir'.

The joint statement said: The Pakistani side briefed the Chinese side on the latest developments of the situation in Jammu & Kashmir. The Chinese side reiterated that the Kashmir dispute was left over from history and should be properly and peacefully resolved in accordance with the UN Charter, relevant Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. Both sides opposed any unilateral actions that further complicate the already volatile situation.

India has previously criticized China and Pakistan for their references to Jammu and Kashmir. "We have consistently rejected such statements and all parties concerned are well aware of our clear position on these matters. The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir and the Union Territory of Ladakh are and always will be integral and inalienable parts of India. No other country has locus standi to comment on the same," the Ministry of External Affairs said last year when China and Pakistan mentioned the Kashmir issue in a joint statement.

China and Pakistan also agreed on continuing their enduring support on issues concerning each other's core national interests, the joint statement said. "Reaffirming Pakistan's special place in China's neighbourhood diplomacy, the Chinese side reiterated its firm support for Pakistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, as well as its unity, stability, and economic prosperity."

The Pakistani side reiterated its commitment to the One China policy as well as its firm support to China on all core issues of its national interest, including Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong and the South China Sea.

"Reaffirming their commitment to high-quality development of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), both sides noted with satisfaction the steady progress of CPEC projects," according to the statement. "Welcoming the completion of a decade of CPEC in 2023, the two sides hailed CPEC as a shining example of Belt and Road cooperation which has accelerated socio-economic development, job creation and improvement of people's livelihoods in Pakistan. Reaffirming their commitment to high-quality development of CPEC, both sides noted with satisfaction the steady progress of CPEC projects. The two sides reiterated the key significance of ML-1 project under the CPEC framework and agreed to advance its earliest implementation. They also agreed to actively advance the Karachi Circular Railway alongside key areas of cooperation including, inter alia, agriculture, science and technology, IT, and renewable energy."

The two sides reviewed the progress of various projects at Gwadar, including the Friendship Hospital and New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA). Both sides reiterated their resolve to develop Gwadar as a high-quality port and a hub for regional trade and connectivity. "Both sides reiterated that CPEC is an open and inclusive platform for win-win cooperation and invited third parties to maximize benefits from CPEC."

The two Foreign Ministers underlined that Pakistan-China friendship was a historic reality and conscious choice of the two nations. As 'All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partners', Pakistan and China enjoy complete mutual trust, and their iron-clad friendship enjoys complete consensus in both countries.

Afghan, China, Pakistan FMs meeting

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang also held a tripartite meeting with his counter parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan. The acting foreign minister of Afghanistan, Amir Khan Muttaqi, who is subject to a travel ban by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was given an exemption to visit Islamabad, met his Chinese counterpart, Qin Gang.

China seeks Afghanistan's participation in Belt and Road cooperation and supports Afghanistan's integration into regional economic cooperation and connectivity.

Qin said China is ready to make joint efforts with Afghanistan and Pakistan to implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, according to Xinhua news agency.

The three sides also pledged to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation, with China and Pakistan expressing their support for the Taliban-led Afghan government to strengthen capacity building to deal with "terrorist" actors.

China and Pakistan made it clear at the meeting that they oppose interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs, illegal unilateral sanctions against Afghanistan, and all acts that undermine regional peace and stability.

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Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob Kall's book Bottom-Up: Tapping the Power of the Connection Revolution is both a welcomed manifesto and a guide for rethinking the power of human agency, understanding the connections that both make us human and legitimate human planetary relations. Moreover it is a powerful call for providing the ideas, social practices, and relations that make human connections possible, enable them to work together from the bottom up, and to transform such connections into a powerful movement in which people take control of their lives and create a better future for everyone."



Henry Giroux, Director of the McMaster Centre for Research in the Public Interest, author of Zombie Politics and Culture in the Age of Casino Capitalism, Americas Education Deficit and The War on Youth, and dozens more.
" World's 1st Edtech platform promotes affordable University Education to global students professionals - Entire Program Starting at RM 11980 (entire program)" "Professional IT training program (6-8 Weeks) - Starting at RM 1100.00 (entire program)" USA/India/Malaysia RiseBack, the world's first affordable EdTech platform, has announced its launch in Malaysia, with Siti Norita appointed as the Country Manager for the region. Norita brings with her extensive experience in business development, venture funding, and 
Millions of Americans who qualified for free tax services  but were instead deceived into paying TurboTax for their returns  will soon get settlement checks in the mail.

In a settlement last year, TurboTaxs owner Intuit Inc. was ordered to pay $141 million to some 4.4 million people across the country. Those impacted were low-income consumers eligible for free, federally-supported tax services  but paid TurboTax to file their federal returns across the 2016, 2017 and 2018 tax years due to predatory and deceptive marketing, New York Attorney General Letitia James said.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia signed the May 2022 settlement, which was led by James.

Consumers eligible for restitution payments do not need to file a claim, the New York Attorneys General Office said Thursday. They will be notified by an email from Rust Consulting, the settlement fund administrator, and receive a check automatically.

Checks will be mailed starting next week, and continue through the month of May. The amount paid to each eligible consumer ranges from $29 to $85  depending on the number of tax years they qualify for.

TurboTaxs predatory and deceptive marketing cheated millions of low-income Americans who were trying to fulfill their legal duties to file their taxes, James said in a Thursday statement. Today we are righting that wrong and putting money back into the pockets of hardworking taxpayers who should have never paid to file their taxes.

At the time of the May 2022 settlement, James said her investigation into Intuit was sparked by a 2019 ProPublica report that found the company was using deceptive tactics to steer low-income tax filers away from the free, federal services they qualified for  and toward its own commercial products instead.

Under the terms of last years settlement, Intuit Inc. agreed to suspend TurboTaxs free, free, free ad campaign. According to documents obtained by ProPublica, Intuit executives were aware of the impact of advertising free services that were actually not free for everyone.

The website lists Free, Free, Free and the customers are assuming their return will be free, an internal company PowerPoint presentation said, per ProPublica. Customers are getting upset.

When contacted by The Associated Press on Friday, Inuit pointed to the companys May 2022 statement following the settlement agreement.

Intuit is pleased to have reached a resolution with the state attorneys general that will ensure the company can return our focus to providing vital services to American taxpayers today and in the future, Kerry McLean, Intuits executive vice president and general counsel, said at the time.

-- The Associated Press
Frank Gable won his full freedom Monday as a federal magistrate in Portland ordered his unconditional release and barred the state from retrying him in the 1989 fatal stabbing of Oregon prison chief Michael Francke.

U.S. Magistrate Judge John V. Acosta ordered the Marion County murder indictment against Gable be dismissed with prejudice, meaning the state cant bring future charges against Gable in the killing.

The state or any court is BARRED from rearresting, reindicting or retrying Petitioner for the murder of Michael Francke, Acosta wrote in a brief order appearing on the case docket. A full opinion is expected to follow.

Gables sister Francine Sinnett said she learned of the decision from her brother: He just called and said its over.

Hes ecstatic. Im ecstatic. Its such a load off of your soul. I worried so much they were going to try to retry him and come in the middle of the night and arrest him. It was a dark time waiting to find out what the state was going to do, she said. They drug it out for so long.

Gable, now 63, left prison on June 28, 2019, after nearly 30 years following a stunning ruling earlier that year by Acosta, who threw out his murder conviction. He has remained on federal supervision since then. In 1991, Gable had been sentenced to life without the possibility of parole for the killing.

We respect the courts ruling, said Roy Kaufmann, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Justice.

Gable lives in Kansas with his wife, has established himself in the community and enjoys his role as grandfather to his wifes grandchildren, Assistant Federal Public Defender Nell Brown told the court last week. Gable is working for a concrete contractor.

Francke bled to death from stab wounds and was found dead on the north porch of the Dome Building where he worked in Salem. The door of his nearby state-issued Pontiac stood open, its dome light found on.

Gable, a local methamphetamine dealer at the time, was arrested 15 months after Franckes death when another man said he saw him stab Francke. The state argued at trial that Francke interrupted Gable as Gable broke into Franckes car to get snitch papers, drawing from the grand jury statement of one witness. The trial jury found Gable guilty of aggravated murder.

But Acosta ruled four years ago that Gable didnt get a fair trial, noting that another mans confession to the crime was excluded during Gables trial, among other things. Appeals have kept Gable in limbo until now.

Last week, Oregon Solicitor General Benjamin Gutman told Acosta that the Marion County District Attorneys Office didnt plan to retry or reindict Gable within a 90-day deadline Acosta had set, but wanted to reserve the right to reinvestigate the case and rearrest or reindict him in the future.

I can honestly say that I do not understand how the state thinks they can do both, the judge responded then. This wasnt a menu option.

Brown had asked the judge to lift any federal supervision of Gable, dismiss his original indictment in the Francke killing and grant him unconditional release unless the state obtained what she called a constitutional indictment thats not based on false testimony or tainted evidence.

The judge invited both sides to submit further legal briefs on Friday and released his latest ruling on Monday.

Patrick Francke, Michael Franckes older brother who has been a staunch defender of Gable, said the decision wasnt unexpected.

Obviously, weve very excited, he said. I still cant understand why it took so long for justice to be reached.

Kevin Francke, Michael Franckes youngest brother who also believed in Gables innocence, said in a statement, We are beyond happy that Frank and his wife Rain will no longer be paralyzed with fear by every unexpected phone call or knock at the door, and they can go about a normal existence.

The Francke brothers have believed that there was a conspiracy to kill their brother to cover up widespread corruption inside the states prison system.

In April 2019, Acosta had found that no reasonable juror would have convicted Gable in light of another mans multiple confessions to Franckes killing and because nearly all the witnesses in the case have recanted since the trial. Acosta also found that Gables conviction resulted from improper interrogation of witnesses by investigators and flawed polygraphs that further shaped witness statements to police.

He then ordered Gable to be released or retried within 90 days. The judge put the 90-day clock on hold at times as the state unsuccessfully appealed to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which upheld Acostas 2019 dismissal of Gables conviction, and then unsuccessfully petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene.

In his court filing Friday, Gutman, Oregons solicitor general, had argued that Gables unconditional release did not preclude the state from retrying Gable in the future. The possible unfairness of a future trial was not before Acosta to consider, and only in extraordinary circumstances could a federal judge forbid a new trial, Gutman said.

Although this Court found that petitioner made a colorable showing of actual innocence sufficient to excuse procedural default, it concluded that he had not made the truly persuasive and extraordinarily high showing necessary to support a finding that he is actually innocent, Gutman wrote.

Brown countered that Acosta gave the state two choices: Retry within 90 days or release Gable for good. Releasing Gable free and clear is the right avenue, given the extraordinary circumstances of his case that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals recognized, Brown wrote.

The 1990 indictment upon which Mr. Gable was tried in 1991 was based on false testimony of the States material witnesses, which was incentivized by conduct the Ninth Circuit explicitly recognized as undisputed misconduct, Brown wrote in her response Friday.

Further, the time Gable already served in prison likely would be the prison sentence hed receive were he to be tried again and convicted, Brown said. Hes been fully compliant on federal supervision and Franckes own family has repeatedly urged the state to end its pursuit of a conviction against Mr. Gable, she wrote.

Mr. Gable has lived under the shadow of this case for thirty-four years. The States continued litigation of this matter has caused him stress and depression and he recently had a pacemaker implanted, his lawyer told the court.

The interests of justice demand finality. Mr. Gable must now be presumed innocent. ... Dismissal and finality are not only what law and justice require to begin to make Mr. Gable whole, but finality will also vindicate the interests of the public, the victims family, and the States material witnesses who described being intimidated, psychologically coerced, and harassed by the States investigators, Brown wrote. These witnesses should not be subjected to further investigation by the State in connection with this thirty-four-year-old matter.

John Crouse, a Salem man who was on parole for a robbery at the time, repeatedly said he killed Francke, telling numerous law enforcement officers as well as his mother, brother and girlfriend that he stabbed Francke when Francke caught Crouse burglarizing his car. Crouse is no longer alive.

Acosta found that the exclusion of Crouses confessions at Gables trial was wrong and violated Gables due process rights. The 9th Circuit upheld Acostas ruling, calling the facts of the appeal extraordinary.

In the thirty years since trial, nearly all the witnesses who incriminated Gable have recanted. In short, no reasonable juror could ignore the heavy blow to the States evidence given the significance of the recantations. The affidavits show how undisputed investigative misconduct paved the way for a string of criminal associates to turn on Gable to help themselves, the 9th Circuit ruling said.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian

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Milos City Cafe, a Northeast Portland restaurant known for its smoked salmon eggs Benedict and chicken and waffles topped with fried leeks, has closed temporarily after a change in ownership, according to a sign in the door.

Look for us to reopen soon, the sign reads.

Milos opened in 1999 as a family affair, with founders Loren Skogland and Marianne Meskel Skogland joined at the restaurant by their three children. The Skoglands added dinner service in 2002 (including a mean Hungarian mushroom soup), though the restaurant, 1325 N.E. Broadway, has always been best known for its breakfast and lunch.

Oregon Eggs Benedict and coffee at Milo's City Cafe.The Oregonian

According to public records, Jeff Munden took over the 20-year-old business in 2019. Munden did not immediately return an email seeking more information about the restaurants future.

The unexpected closure came around the same time that Zells, another decades-old Portland breakfast spot, called it quits, promising to return with a different concept at some point.

 Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com

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Confused about the status of the candidates in the race to represent Zone 3 on the Portland school board?

Youre not alone. Even the candidates themselves seem flummoxed.
Shawn Farrens and Cherice Roth are vying for the position 1 seat on the Gresham-Barlow school board.

Farrens, the incumbent, works as a principal and director of human resources at Baker Charter Schools. He has a fifth grader who attends school in the Gresham-Barlow district. Roth is a veterinarian with sons in the district.

The Oregonian/OregonLive asked Farrens and Roth six key questions designed to help voters make their choice in the May 16 election. Roth chose not to respond.

Some of Ferrens responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

What do you consider the two most pressing issues in the Gresham-Barlow public school system to be and why? How will you address these as a board member?

Farrens: I would like to expand career and technical education options and enhance extra- and co-curricular opportunities at the K-8 level. CTE provides a hands-on learning experience that prepares our students for careers out of high school or in the trades. Through the recently completed bond, we have greatly expanded technical opportunities for our students. Additionally, I have advocated for more opportunities for students to connect to their schools through extra- and co-curricular opportunities. These two initiatives are practical ways that we can expand a sense of purpose and belonging that will help them pursue their bright futures with confidence.

Do you think that armed school resource offices should be in the districts middle and high schools? Why or why not?

Farrens: Yes, particularly at the high school level. Last year, the district completed a comprehensive community engagement process that loudly affirmed our communitys support for a school resource officer program. Parents, staff and student groups responded with the belief that their schools were safer with a uniformed officer in the building. Alongside those concerns, our district collaborated with the city of Gresham Police Department (our SRO contracting agency) to develop practices and procedures that promote safe and welcoming schools. I am fully in support of that process.

How will you balance the needs of students and teachers as represented by their unions, should those be at odds?

Farrens: I believe both students and teachers want to ensure that all students are successful. If both parties have this as a constant focus, then there should be very few situations where they are at odds. With that said, students have a legal right to receive a free and appropriate education, and teachers have a legally binding bargaining agreement with the district. In the event both parties are at odds, I would look at the issue at hand and ensure there is a decision that is made that meets legal requirements and rights of both the students and teachers.

Some school districts have been criticized for giving too little information and influence to parents versus to professional educators and district leaders. What level would you say your district gives parents at this time: Too much, too little or just right? Why do you think so?

Farrens: The foundation of parent communication is the shared understanding that families are the primary educator in a childs life. From that viewpoint, I have worked hard to make sure that our policies and practices affirm parents responsibility and capacity to raise their children through transparent, supportive practices. As a parent in the district, I have been personally pleased with the amount of information I receive about my student and his experiences; however, I recognize that other families may not have the same experience as me, and I think communication is an area for constant improvement.

Enrollment has declined 4.3% in Gresham-Barlow since 2019, but the academic and social/emotional needs of remaining students are no less intense. If budget cuts are necessary in response to the declining in enrollment, what would you propose for cuts? What would you prioritize or protect?

Farrens: Enrollment decline is a challenge in public education nationwide. To make Gresham-Barlow a school district that families choose to attend, we have to enhance the sense of achievement and belonging within our schools. Some of the efforts we have recently made include waived co- and extra-curricular participation fees, expanded advanced placement opportunities at our high schools, language immersion, and career pathway programming. We have also preserved a reserve that can weather some of the challenges ahead. In the event we still have to find room in our budget, we should prioritize making room for student-facing programs and student experiences.

Whats your opinion of the performance of your districts superintendent? How would you hold him accountable in the future?

Farrens: I believe our superintendent has done an admirable job, and the board confirmed as much in our most recent evaluation process, which I helped facilitate as a member of the evaluation committee. When we hired him to the full-time position, we believed our community deserved a steady, proven leader who would lead with integrity, vision, and accountability. He has demonstrated those qualities in public and in private, and  as a parent in the district  I am grateful he is leading our schools.
Federal prosecutors are resisting a request to share their criminal evidence against Tops shooter Payton Gendron with lawyers hired by the victims' families.

That stance will make it harder for the families to hold others to account in civil court for the May 14 racist attack that killed 10 and wounded three others at the Jefferson Avenue supermarket, a lawyer for three of the families said.

But in a new court filing, the government prosecutors warned it would be impossible to keep sensitive information properly secured during the criminal case against Gendron once it is used in civil lawsuits, adding that its prosecution against him takes priority over any pending or potential civil lawsuits arising from the mass shooting.

The families' lawyers would like access to a portion of the evidence  which even Gendron's defense lawyers consent to  for the civil lawsuits they're preparing against gun and body armor manufacturers as well as social media platforms.

Federal prosecutors collected evidence from grand jury testimony, subpoenas and search warrants but don't want to turn it over as the federal case proceeds against Gendron, who has already been sentenced to life in prison by a state court.

The public defenders for Gendron in his potential death penalty case in federal court recently filed a motion asking U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder to allow the attorneys for the families to have copies of a large portion of the evidence. That would involve amending a protective order to allow the families' attorneys access to "non-sensitive discovery material" described as "just the forensic images of Payton Gendrons three digital devices, namely his cellphone, laptop and desktop computers, as well as any social media data defined to include Payton Gendrons computer files, text messages, emails and social media accounts, and discovery related to his activities on various social media platforms," the motion filed by his public defenders said.

In their court filing Thursday, federal prosecutors opposed the request, saying the federal grand jury "is not a tool for investigating civil lawsuits."

"It is improper to use federal grand jury materials simply to tee up civil lawsuits," according to the filing from Kristen Clarke, the assistant attorney general for civil rights at the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross and three other prosecutors involved in the case.

The government's position drew a rebuke from a lawyer who represents three of the families.

"I'm just extremely disappointed in our U.S. Attorney's Office," said attorney John V. Elmore.

While Gendron will never again be free to harm the community, there are other white supremacists who need to be stopped, Elmore said. And efforts should be made to keep impressionable people from falling prey to the racial hatred spread online, he added.

Civil lawsuits can help accomplish that, Elmore said.

"Our goal is to make this city and this country safe from mass shootings," he said.

Blocking families' efforts

Elmore and attorney Terrence M. Connors, who is part of a team representing seven families of those who died and others who survived, have announced plans for lawsuits that could be filed against gun and body armor manufacturers as well as social media platforms.

"It's just ironic that the murderer's lawyers wanted in some small way to make things better," Elmore said. "Their efforts are being impeded by the federal government."

The goal of the families' civil lawsuits is to better protect the community from more mass shootings, Elmore said.

"Social media played a role in radicalizing Payton Gendron to becoming a mass shooter and a racist and committing this hate crime," he said.

The images from Gendron's cellphone and his laptop and desktop computers are "a fingerprint of what he did," Elmore said.

Without that evidence, it'll be harder for the families' lawyers to put together their civil cases, he said. The attorneys for the May 14 victims' families are exploring lawsuits over what they see as the online platforms encouraging illegal content and failing to warn users about illegal activity, and the lawsuits could target a social media platforms design, software or recommendation algorithms.

By holding the social media platforms accountable in a civil court, the May 14 families hope to prevent others from turning into a Payton Gendron, Elmore said.

"There's a danger out there lurking," he said. "This can happen again. We're working with a sense of urgency."

Prosecutors acknowledge the grand jury subpoena responses from social media companies comprise a portion of the evidence the government collected.

They point out that much of the material sought under the social media umbrella would identify other people who played no part in Gendron's crimes.

The protective order

Federal prosecutors negotiated a protective order with Gendron's federal public defenders that allowed information to be shared with the state prosecution and defense teams.

Sharing the voluminous evidence with them "undoubtedly contributed to the prompt guilty plea and sentencing in state court," according to government's filing.

The protective order allowed the evidence to be seen by federal and state defense counsel of record, and any individuals working in collaboration with or under the supervision of the federal and state defense lawyers. But the order prohibits disclosure of discovery materials or their contents, directly or indirectly, to any person outside of the defense team," according to the government's filing.

The protective order allows defense team members to review the discovery materials with potential witnesses and their counsel for purposes of defense and trial preparation, but only in the presence of a defense team member and notes may not be taken regarding the content of any of the evidence. Prosecutors said in their filing that the protective order does not allow for the defense team to review the evidence with civil attorneys for the purpose of investigating and preparing civil lawsuits.

But the government said that has already happened  in violation of the protective order.

While defense counsel may not have allowed civil counsel to copy the criminal evidence, they did not abide by the protective orders restrictions and instead allowed civil counsel access to the discovery in order to further their civil lawsuits, according to the government's court filing.

"Defense counsel in their motion patently admit they have violated the protective order by providing access to discovery for civil attorneys to prepare lawsuits," according to the government filing.

There is no provision in the order that allows the defense team to share the governments evidence with any third party for any reason other than for the purposes of defense and trial preparation in the criminal cases, so the federal public defenders should not share the evidence with the victims, victims families or their attorneys in connection with the preparation of a civil lawsuit.

The prosecutors asked the judge to add a restriction making it clear that evidence should not be disclosed to anyone for use in any civil proceedings.

Also, the prosecutors asked the judge to require Gendron's defense team to describe to the court in writing what evidence has already been disclosed to third parties.

The civil lawyers were barred from copying or recording the material  and couldn't take notes by hand when they viewed the evidence, Elmore said.

"They haven't shared anything," Elmore said of the public defenders. "They just allowed us to look at it."

It's not possible for the civil lawyers to have memorized much if anything at all from what they saw, he said.

Last Friday, the judge said Gendron's public defenders have until this Friday to respond to the government's filing.
The hills of the Willamette Valley may no longer turn purple with blooms of camas, but in one small patch of land, the flower is once again getting its day in the sun.

Tribal members, students and neighbors gathered Friday at Linfield University in McMinnville for the second Camas Festival, an event that aimed to celebrate the once-prolific plant and educate the public about its historical and modern importance.

For the Kalapuya people, whose communities historically spanned the Willamette Valley, the plant is called lakamas, which for generations has been a primary food staple. Bulbs are dug up and cooked for one to three days to become edible, becoming soft with a sweet, nutty taste.

William Fleeger, department chair for environmental studies at Linfield, started the Camas Festival last year in collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and the Greater Yamhill Watershed Council. It came after Fleeger and his students spent years restoring a camas patch along Cozine Creek on campus, which had become overtaken by blackberry bushes and English ivy.

Once we removed the blackberry, the camas came back in full force, Fleeger said of the project, which began in 2015. Its an illustration of the resilience of the plant, which he said once grew so prolifically that the hills of the Willamette Valley would turn purple in spring.

Resilience was also a theme for Crystal Starr, an artist and teacher from Grand Ronde, whose work was on display at the festival Friday. A descendent of Alaskan Athabascan and Yupik people, as well as the Colville people of eastern Washington, she said camas carries special meaning to her, representing one piece of tribal knowledge that was almost lost when European settlers forcibly integrated Indigenous communities.

Its not something you can just go to the store and go buy, Starr said in an interview Friday with Kelly Williams Brown, public relations manager at Linfield. That knowledge of when to gather it, how to process it, what the cultural meaning of it is, is really important.

Members of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde show art and artifacts at the 2023 Camas Festival.Timothy D. Sofranko/Linfield University

People gather at camas patches along Cozine Creek during the Camas Festival at Linfield University. Timothy D. Sofranko/Linfield University

The Linfield University camas patch is the result of years of restoration work by faculty and students. Timothy D. Sofranko/Linfield University

An insect buzzes alongside a blooming camas lily along Cozine Creek.JJ Anderson/Linfield University

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde has been active in keeping traditional knowledge alive, through events like the Camas Festival as well as its Chachalu Museum and the still-in-progress development at Willamette Falls.

David Harrelson, cultural resources department manager for the tribe, praised the event Friday for bringing more awareness to the plant, and spoke of the importance of returning to ancestral lands.

Theres a deep tradition, after removal of tribal people from this place to the reservation, of people returning, Harrelson told the crowd. Not only are Indian people from here, our ancestors kept returning here. Today many tribal members live in town; theyre actively a part of this community.

Members of the community joined tribal members alongside Linfield students and faculty at the festival, where booths were set up to showcase art, artifacts and the plant itself. A tour of the Cozine Creek camas patch allowed people to see the flowers in full bloom.

That patch, while small, will continue to be cultivated to ensure the camas lilies thrive, Fleeger said. It will require continual efforts by students and volunteers to fight back the pesky blackberry bushes, not to mention the ivy and thistle, but the effort is rewarded with a deeper sense of connection to the land that, like the camas bulbs themselves, had laid dormant there for years.

Any time you invest your time and energy into the land and the land gives it back, certainly theres a relationship that develops there, Fleeger said. I think theres a kind of reciprocity that comes about as a result of working the landscape and watching it change over time.

Next year, he said he hopes to have enough camas seeds to hand out to the community, and someday soon he plans to finally eat a roasted camas bulb, which is at the top of his to-do list. His little camas patch and the Camas Festival at Linfield represent the beginning of what he hopes will be a continued restoration of one of the regions most important plants.

[Camas] sustained generations of people before us, and it was part of the landscape that they cultivated, Fleeger said. Its important to retain the patches that we have and hopefully return areas where we can do that.

 Jamie Hale

503-294-4077; jhale@oregonian.com; @HaleJamesB

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Although the conflict-of-interest of the secretary of states side-hustle as a cannabis industry consultant while preparing an audit of Oregons cannabis laws is unfortunate, Oregonians should not be distracted from the actual contents of the audit, (Oregon marijuana audit complete when Secretary of State Shemia Fagan recused herself, records show, April 28).

The cannabis industry is over-regulated, over-taxed, and over-licensed, and the audit asserts the gubernatorial-appointed Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission is not making reforms, (Oregon should loosen marijuana rules to help industry, new state audit urges, April 28).

This creates a robust black market with all the associated problems of the drug war. The ethical questions raised in the recent OLCC bourbon-hoarding scandal indicates Oregon officials cannot be trusted to fairly regulate the industry without furthering pay-to-play cronyism. The only truly necessary regulation is accurate labeling of edibles and dispensary scales, and the only truly necessary intervention is anti-trust action to curb monopolistic and anticompetitive practices. Other than that, the state should step back, tax cannabis like any other agricultural commodity, and leave the industry alone.

Even more concerning is the secretary of state is one of the few officials to act as a check on the governor - who appoints the OLCC commissioners and will now appoint the secretary of states replacement.

Thomas J. Busse, Portland

Busse is a member of the Libertarian Party of Oregon Public Policy Board.

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
On a February day on the Sea of Okhotsk, Veronica Lundell walked along the deck of Japanese icebreaker Garinko II, shooting photos as the ship broke through the frozen sea below. Then, a stranger approached with word that the captain wanted to see her. Lundell didnt know the captain, but puzzled, she made her way to the wheelhouse

As it turned out, Captain Shigeru Yamai recognized Lundell as the founder of Oregons Nye Beach Banner Project. Hed painted his own banner the first year artists from Mombetsu, Japan, were invited to take part in the project that features banners painted by local and sister city artists. The banners hang from lamp posts in Newports Nye Beach neighborhood through the summer, then are auctioned off in the fall as a fundraiser for arts education.

I had the distinct feeling of meeting a good friend for the first time, Lundell said. Up until that moment I had no idea the captain had painted a banner. One of the things that really struck me was the kindness and the joy that I experienced in my exchange when we realized who each other was. I never do selfies. I got a selfie.

Lundell was part of an Oregon delegation of eight to Newports sister city, Mombetsu. The ride on the Garinko II was just one of many cultural experiences the hosts offered during their guests five-day stay in the city famous for its drift ice.

Page from the Nye Beach Banner Project booklet featuring the artist statement from Captain Shigeru Yamai.Nye Beach Banner Project

HERE IS OREGON: HereisOregon.com | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok

Mombetsu and Newport established the sister relationship in 1966, after Mombetsu resident Shunichi Shun Kobayachi reached out to the Newport Rotary Club, noting that the two cities lie at the same latitude -- just below the 45th parallel. Delegations have been traveling back and forth since. A display of the many gifts Mombetsu has given Newport is featured in the Newport City Hall, and the coastal town even has a Mombetsu Sister City Park.

Now, as the city of Newport prepares to host a Mombetsu delegation for a three-day visit in mid-May, the Sister City Committee is tasked with the challenge of creating an itinerary as memorable as the one the Newport delegation experienced in Mombetsu.

The people of Mombetsu set the bar really high, said Peggy Hawker, retired Newport city recorder. Hawker had helped organize visits to and from the cities for more than 20 years, but this was her first visit. They went above and beyond in organizing every single event of every single day. They were astonishingly hospitable. Anything anyone needed, it suddenly was there.

The Newport delegation arrived in Mombetsu after several days in Tokyo and Sapporo. They were prepared to make their own way to the sister city but were surprised to find Mombetsu had sent both a bus and an interpreter.

On the way, they took us to lunch at a brewery where we cooked our own food, Hawker said. They took us to a sake factory where we went in and tasted different sakes. Then, on to Mombetsu. Its quite a long trip, five or six hours, through some incredible mountains, snowing the entire time.

Banners from the Nye Beach Banner project hung from streetlamps leading to the Mombetsu city hall, where some 200 well-wishers waited to welcome the delegation. In the days that followed, the eight Oregonians would be treated to varied cultural experiences including a Taiko drumming demonstration, calligraphy class, a potluck and the ride on a frozen mosaic of ice.

Experiencing the drift ice of Mombetsu topped Hawkers list of must-sees, though there was no guarantee it would happen.

They knew that I wanted to see the drift ice, Hawker said. That is an amazingly tall order because its there when its there. They were very excited when we arrived. It had come in on that day and they arranged a trip for us to go on the icebreaker.

This years annual ice festival was canceled as the city experienced its warmest winter in 60 years, but the Okhotsk Sea Ice Museum of Hokkaido remains ice cold.

Its definitely worth seeing, Lundell said of the museum. Just bundle up and prepare to freeze. There are many, many specimens of local sea life. I pulled it up on the internet before we went and thought they were in acrylic, but its ice, clear, large blocks of ice.

The Mombetsu hosts also treated the Oregonians to a tea ceremony, featuring a green tea Hawker described as almost as thick as gravy, a potluck featuring both traditional Japanese dishes and those Hawker believed the hosts thought might be favored American dishes  fruity, salad-y things, all delicious -- formal dinners, and a trip to a local hot springs.

It was a segregated hot springs, men in one and women in the other, Hawker said. I dont think any of us were entirely comfortable  you cant wear your clothes. I love hot springs. I just prefer them with my clothes on.

The hospitality continued until the last possible moment as the Mombetsu exchange committee surprised the delegation one more time.

The final, incredibly hospitable act of our hosts was to fly from Mombetsu to Tokyo with us to ensure we got to the correct gate for our flight home, Hawker said. Since there is only one flight from Mombetsu to Tokyo each day they had to spend the night in Tokyo. It was an incredible visit, and it is going to be a really tall order to replicate that.

The Mombetsu delegation is expected to spend just three nights in Newport, arriving from the Airport in Eugene by bus. The Newport Sister City Committee plans a welcome ceremony at Newport City Hall, visits to the Oregon Coast Aquarium, the Hatfield Marine Science Center  including the new Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building with the vertical evacuation tower  and a fish plant. They will also take a boat ride on Yaquina Bay.

We will do our best to make sure we are as hospitable as they were and offer equally diverse experiences, Hawker said.

 Lori Tobias, for The Oregonian/OregonLive
One Republican senator filed a pair of workplace complaints Monday over denied requests to be excused from the Senate as a GOP walkout entered its sixth day.

Sen. Cedric Hayden, R-Fall Creek, alleged in complaints to the Bureau of Labor and Industries and to the Legislative Equity Office that President Rob Wagner violated his religious freedom by denying his requests to be excused to attend a church service on Saturday.

His complaint came as Hayden, eight fellow Republicans and one Independent senator again stayed away from the Capitol on Monday, denying Democrats in the legislative majority the opportunity to pass bills.

The latest unproductive floor session featured a short pointed prayer from Salem pastor Marilyn Williams asking for help for all lawmakers to do the right thing, the thing that their constituents voted for them to do. Without a quorum, the Senate soon adjourned with plans to try again Tuesday.

Senate President Rob Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, again left the room without speaking to reporters, just as he has declined to comment since the first day of the walkout nearly a week ago. Wagners spokesman, Connor Radnovich, said Wagner has learned about Minority Leader Knopps complaints through media reports and not from Knopp himself.

Radnovich added that Republicans seemed to be operating the way they would with former Senate President Peter Courtney, a Salem Democrat who tried to compromise with Republicans. He said Measure 113, a 2022 voter-approved law barring any lawmaker with 10 or more unexcused absences from serving in the next Legislature, changed things.

Four senators  Hayden, Republicans Daniel Bonham of The Dalles and Dennis Linthicum of Klamath Falls and Independent Brian Boquist of Dallas  now have six unexcused absences and are on track to reach their 10th by Friday.

Sen. Dick Anderson, R-Lincoln City, has attended every day since the Republican walkout began. He was joined Monday by Sen. Bill Hansell, R-Athena.

Republicans initially insisted that their walkout was over bill summaries being too difficult to understand, with a state law requiring that they be written at around an eighth grade reading level. Knopp, R-Bend, told the Capital Chronicle on Sunday that Republicans are also protesting about 20 bills they consider too partisan.

Theres about 20 bills that are hyper-partisan, and need to be set aside for the good of Oregonians, he said. If they choose to do that, I think well be able to finish the session and be able to finish the budgets.

Knopp said his office would provide a list of the 20 bills on Monday, but he hasnt yet shared them and a spokeswoman didnt respond to a request Monday morning. Senate Majority Leader Kate Lieber, D-Beaverton, told reporters that she asked for the list after reading about it in the Capital Chronicle, but she hasnt seen it.

The last time I checked, emails super easy, she said. They dont even have to be in the building to email me the list if they want to.

However, Lieber said, Democrats arent going to compromise on their legislative priorities, including gun control and ensuring access to abortion.

It feels like this has been a setup since the beginning, Lieber said. I would be happy to talk with any of the Republicans who want to talk about how to get over the impasse, but not only me, but my caucus is adamant about not watering down Democratic priorities. Short of that, were happy to have discussions.

COMPLAINTS FILED

In his complaints to the Bureau of Labor and Industries and the Senate, Hayden alleged that Wagner, D-Lake Oswego, violated laws that require religious accommodations for employees.

Hayden, a Seventh Day Adventist, belongs to a church that worships on Saturdays, where he also occasionally preaches. Wagner had denied his request to be absent for church last Saturday, as well as requests to be off the next seven Saturdays of the legislative session.

Other Senate absences have been excused, absences unrelated to religious reasons, Hayden wrote in his complaint to the bureau.

Hayden also complained he was denied Sunday off to take care of his disabled daughter, a request that was flatly denied.

Meanwhile, other legislators have been treated like employees and excused from floor sessions by Wagner for apparent medical reasons, Hayden wrote in the complaint.

Hayden noted hes not entitled to medical leave like an employee, but requested a reasonable religious accommodation from a place of public accommodation that provides a public service, and he was denied, without an interactive process or discussion regarding the denial.

The complaint says his wife is the sole caregiver for their daughter throughout the week around the clock and Hayden is needed to help give her a break, making Saturday excuses all the more important.

Wagners denial also impacts Haydens potential future as a legislator if he racks up 10 absences and is disqualified from reelection.

The overall effect is to render Wagners religious discrimination against complainant all the more impactful, jeopardizing his service to the state, the complaint said.

The Senate complaint lays out the same circumstances and seeks an order preventing Wagner from future denials. That complaint will be reviewed by the attorneys from Stoel Rives who have been handling workplace complaints as the legislative equity office sits vacant.

Wagner hadnt yet read the complaints and had no comment Monday morning, his spokesman said.
Intel plans a fresh wave of layoffs in the wake of a steep decline in revenue over the last six months. The chipmaker, Oregons largest corporate employer, blames a weak global economy.

We are focused on identifying cost reductions and efficiency gains through multiple initiatives, including some business and function-specific workforce reductions in areas across the company, Intel said in a written statement.

These are difficult decisions, and we are committed to treating impacted employees with dignity and respect, Intel said.

Dylan Patel with the technology research firm SemiAnalysis first reported the pending cuts over the weekend. Intel didnt say what else its cutting, in what areas, or how these layoffs compare to a prior round of job cuts that ended last winter.

Intel laid off more than 500 employees in California in job cuts announced last fall, according to filings there with state workforce agencies. It laid off employees in Oregon, too, but didnt make a similar filing here, suggesting that the layoffs represented a smaller percentage of the companys local workforce. Intel employs more than 22,000 at its Washington County campuses.

The latest job cuts come as Intel pursues billions of dollars in federal subsidies to help offset the cost of building new, advanced factories in Arizona and Ohio. Another round of layoffs create a politically unappealing picture for the company as it pursues that money.

Intels statement emphasized that it continues to invest in areas core to our business, including our U.S.-based manufacturing operations.

Intel is struggling amid a sharp downturn in demand for the microprocessors it sells for PCs and data centers. Sales were down by 38% over the past six months, reflecting the slower economy and reduced spending from consumers and businesses that stocked up on computers early in the pandemic.

Intel is also facing increased competition from rivals including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., AMD and Nvidia, which are eroding Intels market share in various key businesses.

In recent weeks, analysts have said they believe the chip industry may be nearing the worst of its downturn, and Intel said last month it expects better results in the second half of the year.

The layoffs add to a long string of cost cuts as Intel works to shore up its finances. The company cut its shareholder dividend by two-thirds in February and announced temporary cuts to wages and bonuses in January.

Another round of layoffs will again test employees morale. Last week, Intel said it wants them to work remotely less often as it seeks to improve productivity, collaboration and corporate culture.

-- Mike Rogoway | mrogoway@oregonian.com | 503-294-7699

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I know youve got a lot to worry about. Global warming, taking the bins out for garbage day, what should we eat for dinner, the collapse of the economic system.

But what if I could give you one more thing?

According to a new study out from Bonusfinder, a website that helps you find online casinos, Oregon is among the top 10 states in the country where you might be living next to a serial killer, coming in exactly at number 10.

According to Bonusfinder, the odds of having a serial killer neighbor in Oregon are 1 in 353,345. For reference, odds-wise, the odds of getting struck by lightning in the U.S. are 1 in 15,300.

So, actually, no need to worry. Unless you live in Marcola where your chances increase dramatically to 1 in 580.

Now, OK citizens of Marcola, take a deep breath. Since I could not find a single mention of a serial killer born in Marcola, I asked Bonusfinder spokesperson Tori Saunders to explain.

According to Saunders, the serial killer connected to Marcola was Robert Wayne Danielson.

Danielson was, as youd expect with a serial killer, a creep. He killed at least seven people in three states, including Oregon, starting with the Marcola murder in 1970 that put him in prison. After getting parole in the 80s, he killed more people. Ultimately, in 1995, he killed himself in prison while on death row.

There are little known details about his childhood, Saunders said. There are some sources that locate him to Iowa state however with the limited stats and info on this, we took the next best location which was his first murder that occurred nearby Marcola.

While I respect the fact that Bonusfinder had someone available to answer questions, this answer throws the whole study into question. Are we talking about where serial killers were born or where they killed? Because those are very different answers! How many serial killers kill in their own neighborhoods? Not many.

And, I hate to be a real Debbie Downer on this whole study, but arent all these known serial killers either dead or in jail? So your likelihood of living next to one of them is very low, unless you are reading this from a maximum security prison or Hell.

What I am saying is, thanks for reading and if you live in Marcola, lock your doors. Not because you might get serial killed but because everyone should lock their doors. This is the year 2023, not 1965. You dont want people just wandering in off the street!

 Lizzy Acker

503-221-8052; lacker@oregonian.com; @lizzzyacker

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A 5k run and walk and a joint service military ball will mark Western New York Armed Forces Day on May 20.

The run, sponsored by Russell J. Salvatore, will begin with a sign-in starting at 8:30 a.m. at Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Servicemen's Park at Canalside in downtown Buffalo.

The final day for runners to register is May 18. Cost is $25, with proceeds benefitting veterans and current service members in the area. Race information can be found online at runsignup.com.

The Western New York Armed Forces Committee will hold its 60th anniversary Diamond Jubilee joint service military ball at 6 p.m. in Joseph's Grand Manor, 275 Columbia Ave., Depew.

The guest of honor and speaker will be Marine Corps Col. Tyler Zagurski, commanding officer of Marine Barracks Washington. There also will be a ceremony presenting Service Person of the Year awards to each service of the armed forces.

The dinner is open to the public. Tickets are $65 and are available online at eventbrite.com.
MANISTEE  Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital completed its emergency department renovation in April but hospital officials say there are remaining items that are needed to help improve the quality of emergency care for patients.

After a fundraising campaign brought in $1.1 million for the emergency department renovation, the Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital Foundation is looking to raise money to help the hospital acquire new equipment for the new department.

The hospital is looking to acquire four wall-mounted otoscopes, three new patient stretchers, two transport chairs, 10 desk chairs, two isolation carts and two locking procedure carts for a total of $56,000, according to hospital foundation documents.

Bringing this state-of-the-art equipment to Manistee Hospital will ensure the best possible care is available for patients in our community, when and where they need it, states part of a hospital foundation news release.

Otoscopes

An otoscope is a diagnostic tool in emergency medicine which plays a role in examining structures of the external and middle ear, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Using a beam of light, emergency physicians can examine the condition of the ear canal and eardrum. These examinations can reveal the cause of earaches or hearing loss and it can also be used to examine the skin and identify abnormal tissues, according to hospital foundation documents.

Stretchers

Stretchers serve the purpose of safely and securely transporting patients to and from emergency rooms.

The hospital is looking to purchase three patient stretchers by medical device manufacturer, Stryker.

These stretchers are designed to reduce physical strain on clinicians and enhance patient comfort thanks to a motorized elements that minimize the need for manual pushing and lifting, according to hospital foundation documents.

Chairs

The addition of two new Stryker transport chairs will help staff to safely transport patients.

The chairs provide a built-in oxygen bottle holder for patients who may have trouble getting oxygen on their own, according to the manufacturers website.

The transport chairs are designed with upright footrests which help reduce the risk of tripping for patients and caregivers. Additionally, the chairs have foot-operated brakes which help reduce bending and reaching for staff members.

Isolation carts

Isolation carts help prevent spread of infectious diseases within hospitals.

These carts are used in isolation rooms where patients with infectious diseases are cared for, to store medical tools and personal protective equipment for staff who are attending to contagious patients, according to hospital foundation documents.

The two isolation carts will help hospital staff maintain a sterile environment without spreading contamination.

Locking procedure carts

Medical procedure carts need to be readily available for staff to quickly access lifesaving equipment and medicine when needed, and to keep these items secured while not in use.

Having two carts in the emergency department will help staff transport supplies and equipment in the event of a crisis, and keep materials secure to only hospital personnel, according to hospital foundation documents.

Additional information

Each year, the hospital emergency department provides care for 15,000 patients.

Richard Wilson, president of the hospital foundation, said in April that the foundation is "incredibly grateful for the support from our community here in Manistee."

"We truly have a very special community that came together to invest in our hospital and the care that it has provided to our friends and neighbors, Wilson said.

For more information about Manistee Hospital, visit munsonhealthcare.org, call Munson Healthcare Foundations at 231-213-1150 or email foundation@mhc.net.
A 42-year-old Saginaw man faces the possibility of life in prison after leading Michigan State Police on a high-speed chase traveling the wrong way on I-75 with kidnapped passengers.

Troopers for the MSP Tri-City Post saw the man's car driving at a high rate of speed around 1:45 a.m. Thursday, May 4, near the intersection of Cumberland Ave. and Holland Road in Buena Vista Township near Saginaw.

The troopers attempted to stop the car, but the driver did not stop causing a pursuit on I-75 going southbound in the northbound lanes, state police wrote in a Friday press release.

The agency shared a video of the incident Friday on Twitter, writing: "Thankfully nobody was injured!"

As the pursuit began, a passenger in the car called 911 and reported they were in the car against their will, according to state police.

As the high-speed pursuit continued southbound in the northbound lanes of I-75, Birch Run police officers deployed stop sticks at the Birch Run exit and Genesee County Sheriffs deputies deployed stop sticks at Vienna Road in an attempt to safely disable the man's car.

He entered the Clio Rest Area, and troopers successfully stopped his car using a Precision Immobilization Technique, also known as a PIT maneuver, as he attempted to reenter the freeway.

He was arrested and lodged at the Saginaw County Jail for kidnapping, felonious assault and fleeing a police officer. He also has several outstanding warrants, according to state police.

Both passengers were released without injury.
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  Six crew members of a Liberian-flagged tanker held hostage for more than a month by pirates in West Africa have been freed, the Danish shipping company that owns the vessel said Monday.

On March 25, pirates boarded the Monjasa Reformer southwest of Port Pointe-Noire, Congo. The ship was found abandoned five days later by a French navy patrol off the small island nation of Sao Tome and Principe north of where the attack took place.

The pirates left 10 of the 16 crew members on board, kidnapping the remaining six and taking them to shore in Nigeria.

In a statement, Monjasa company spokesperson Thorstein Andreasen said that the ordeal of the six crew members had ended Monday and they were "now safely recovered from an undisclosed location in Nigeria.

All "are in a relatively good health condition given the difficult circumstances they have been under in the last more than five weeks, Andreasen said in the statement. He added that they had received medical checks and were being repatriated to their home countries to reunite with their families.

The Gulf of Guinea is one of the worlds most dangerous places for attacks on ships. This hijacking took place further south in an area that is not typically attacked by pirates.

Anders Ostergaard, the CEO of Monjasa, which is based in Fredericia, western Denmark, thanked those who had helped to resolve this awful situation.

After the pirates boarded the tanker, the crew sought refuge in a citadel  a safe area on the ship  in line with the on-board anti-piracy emergency protocol. However, the pirates somehow managed to take some of them hostage.

The nationalities of the crew members has not been announced, nor were details given as to where and how they were held.

No damage to the ship or its cargo has been reported. No further details were given.

The Danish shipper said that the episode clearly demonstrates the need for joint international political action to face these issues once and for all and urges for safe passage routes and safe zones under an international coalition.

The Monjasa Reformer is used in West Africa as part of Monjasas global marine fuels operations. It was carrying marine gas oil, very low sulphur fuel oil and high sulphur fuel oil products on board, the shipper said.
In the campaign commercial that President Joe Biden released to announce his re-election campaign, there was one individual who was prominently displayed  Kamala Harris.

Since the moment Biden selected her as his running mate in July 2020, there has been no shortage of commentary about Harris and her role as vice president. No honest person can dismiss the fact that being a woman of color has been a political handicap for her.

As a woman of color and a biracial one at that, Harris has to deal with the twin evils of Jim Crow and Jane crow. The term was espoused by pioneering legal scholar Pauli Murray in 1970.

Barack Obama was biracial, some will argue. But Obama was also a man running for president in an era that, although relatively recent, was not as politically fractured and divisive as the current climate.

Harris, the first Black woman and first Asian American vice president, has faced plenty of detractors during her first two and a half years as vice president, detractors who claim shes failed to define an effective role in the administration. Some of her assignments have included the difficult tasks of solving Central American migration along the southern border and ensuring voting rights amid a barrage of new state election laws.

Various factors aside, the indisputable reality is that Harris was not the most inspiring candidate. Indeed, a number of people, myself included, were both intrigued and taken aback at how surprisingly ambiguous the vice president has come across to the larger public. She has routinely struggled to explain her policy stances and seems to routinely equivocate when asked where she stood on an issue. At other times, she seems to be totally vague in her responses.

The truth is we are in an era where voters across the political spectrum want a candidate who is unmistakably definitive in their beliefs and free of any level of ambiguity. At the present moment, the American people, across the political spectrum, hunger for candor. Indecisive commentary will be soundly rejected.

Harris (at least at this point) has failed to heighten her stature or convince a plurality of voters she harbors the politically vital ingredients necessary to step into the shoes of the presidency, should Biden be incapable of serving a full second term.

Political flaws imagined or real, Kamala Harris remains popular among Black women. She recently traveled to Nashville, Tennessee to demonstrate support for the two lawmakers  Justin Pearson and Justin Johnson  who were callously expelled, then reinstated to the state legislature. Her journey to Africa last month and her most recent visit to her alma mater, Howard University, discussing abortion rights, have earned solid marks from pundits and other political observers.

Both Biden and Harris must make a persuasive argument to fellow Democrats and swing voters why she remains the best choice to succeed him. It is something that both of them must do unequivocally and unambiguously.

Elwood Watson is a professor of history, Black studies, and gender and sexuality studies at East Tennessee State University. He is also an author and public speaker.
Gulf Technologies Systems (GTS), a leading Israeli company, and Himeros Mining Limited, have entered into a joint venture agreement to develop a gold mine in the Western Region of Ghana, specifically in the Sefwi-Esaase District.



The mining operation will involve state-of-the-art boring equipment to develop a 3.5 billion dollar mine over the next five years. This new venture is expected to produce up to 250 kg of gold per month, along with 150 kg of other precious metals, and a potential for diamond mining operations in the future.



GTS and Himeros Mining Limited have agreed to use different types of mining techniques, implement environmental control systems, and consider the impact that this mining operation will have on the local communities.



Types of Mining



The mining operation at the Sefwi-Esaase District will involve both deep rock mining and alluvial mining. Deep rock mining involves drilling into the ground to extract minerals that are located deep beneath the surface. This type of mining can be very expensive, but it is often necessary when the minerals are located too deep for other methods to be effective. In contrast, alluvial mining involves extracting minerals from the sediment of rivers and streams. This type of mining is less expensive than deep rock mining, but it can be more damaging to the environment.



Environmental Control Systems



In order to mitigate the potential environmental impact of the mining operation, GTS and Himeros Mining have implemented several environmental control systems. These systems will ensure that water is recycled and that no chemicals are used in the mining process. This will reduce the amount of pollution that is released into the environment, which will help to protect the local ecosystem.



In addition to these environmental control systems, GTS and Himeros Mining have also implemented a plan to treat the waste soil that is produced during the mining operation. This soil will be treated with a special fertilizing process to remove all metals from the soil. Once the metals have been removed, the soil will be suitable for agricultural use. This will help to mitigate the environmental impact of the mining operation and ensure that the local ecosystem is protected.



Impact on the Local Community



One of the key benefits of the mining operation at the Sefwi-Esaase District is that it will provide employment opportunities for the local communities. The mining operation will employ residents from the local villages that surround the mine, providing them with a source of income and a way to improve their standard of living.



In addition to providing employment opportunities, the mining operation will also have a positive impact on the local economy. The mining operation will generate revenue for the local government, which can be used to fund local infrastructure projects and improve the quality of life for the local communities.



The joint venture agreement between GTS and Himeros Mining to develop a gold mine in the Sefwi-Esaase district of Ghana represents a significant investment in the future of the region. The state-of-the-art boring equipment and the implementation of environmental control systems will ensure that the mining operation is conducted in an environmentally responsible manner.



The use of both deep rock mining and alluvial mining techniques will allow for the extraction of a variety of precious metals, including gold and potentially diamonds. The waste soil will be treated to remove metals and will be suitable for agricultural use, further mitigating the environmental impact of the mining operation.



The employment opportunities and economic benefits that the mining operation will bring to the local communities will provide a significant boost to the region. The joint venture agreement between GTS and Himeros Mining is an important step towards the development of the mining industry in Ghana, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy for years to come.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The ideals of diplomacy and mutual respect have been echoed in Native Nations treaties and agreements with other governments for centuries. In fact, the Treaty of Canandaigua between the Haudenosaunee and the United States, supported by George Washington, sought to establish a firm and permanent friendship between our peoples.

Unfortunately, President Washingtons professions of friendship and respect for the Haudenosaunee dont seem to carry much weight in Albanys Executive Chamber.

Upon coming into office as Seneca Nation president in November, I sent a letter to New York Gov. Kathy Hochul requesting a meeting. When my letter went unanswered, I sent it again, this time by registered mail. It was met with the same silence.

Also in November, representatives from the Seneca Nation and New York State began negotiations on a new gaming compact. As negotiations have continued over the last several months, the Nation has sent additional correspondence to Gov. Hochul regarding the negotiation process. Like our initial correspondence, each has gone unanswered.

With negotiations ongoing and the New York State Legislatures remaining session calendar growing short, we recently requested that the counsel to the governor attend our most recent in-person negotiation meetings with the state  even offering to change the meeting location from Niagara Falls to Albany in order to accommodate her schedule. More silence.

Given this pattern of silence, it came as quite a surprise to learn  secondhand no less  that on Monday, May 1, Gov. Hochul was traveling to speak at the New York State Machinist Unions annual convention. The location of the meeting? Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, located on Seneca Nation Territory.

The governor, even in the midst of final preparation and passage of the month-delayed state budget, made time to meet with an important constituency. Thats understandable. The Seneca Nation has an extraordinary respect for and a working relationship with organized labor.

Thousands of dedicated skilled tradespeople have helped build our casino facilities and resorts, as well as health centers, government and public safety buildings, infrastructure projects and other important Nation projects on our territories  largely funded with gaming revenues  over the past two decades.

But the governor didnt just travel to Western New York for this meeting. She came to Seneca land and Seneca property. Our territory was apparently acceptable enough for her to meet with a group important to her political objectives, but the Nation itself  a supposed partner in a compact that has been transformational to Western New York  doesnt merit even a response, much less an actual meeting. The smack of that insult should echo across New York.

Tens of thousands of individuals, families and businesses throughout Western New York and across the state  Native and non-Native  are depending on the Seneca Nation and a fair and equitable gaming compact for their livelihoods. They  and we  deserve more than a continued and embarrassing pattern of disrespect from New Yorks highest office.

Rickey Armstrong Sr. is president of the Seneca Nation.
Charles III on Saturday finally met his date with destiny after a lifetime as heir to his late mother Queen Elizabeth II, as he was officially crowned king in the first coronation in Britain since 1953.



At 12:02 pm, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby placed the solid gold St Edwards Crown on Charless head as a sacred and ancient symbol of the monarchs authority.



Cries of God Save the King rang out from the 2,300-strong congregation at Westminster Abbey and trumpet fanfares sounded at the climax of the solemn religious confirmation of his accession.



Outside, ceremonial gun salutes blasted out across land and sea while bells pealed in celebration at churches across the country.



The build-up to the Christian ceremony of prayer and praise  steeped in 1,000 years of British history and tradition, with sumptuous robes and priceless regalia  has been mostly celebratory.



But even before Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 75, left Buckingham Palace for a rainy procession to the abbey, police arrested dozens of protesters using new powers rushed onto the statute book to crack down on direct action groups.



The anti-monarchy movement Republic  which wants an elected head of state  said six of its organisers were detained, while climate activists Just Stop Oil said 19 of its number were held.



Nevertheless, dozens of Republic activists held aloft banners on the route of the procession route, declaring: Not My King.



Both Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International voiced concern at the arrests. This is something you would expect to see in Moscow, not London, HRW said.



Londons Metropolitan Police has some 11,500 officers on the streets in one of its biggest ever security operations. It has warned that it has an extremely low threshold for protests.



As well as being the first coronation in 70 years, it was the first of a king since 1937. It was only the second to be televised and the first in colour and streamed online.



Changes



Much of the two-hour Anglican service, in which Charles pledged I come not to be served but to serve, would have been recognisable to the 39 other monarchs crowned at Westminster Abbey since 1066.



But while many of the intricate rituals and ceremony to recognise Charles as his peoples undoubted king remained, the king sought to bring other aspects of the service up to date.



Women bishops participated for the first time, as did leaders of Britains non-Christian faiths while its Celtic languages  Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic  featured prominently.



A gospel choir sang for the first time at a coronation while a Greek choir intoned a psalm in tribute to Charless late father, Prince Philip, who was born on the island of Corfu.



As king, Charles is supreme governor of the Church of England and has described himself as a committed Anglican Christian.



But he heads a more religiously and ethnically diverse country than the one his mother inherited in the shadow of World War II.



As such, he sought to make the congregation more reflective of British society, inviting ordinary members of the public to sit alongside heads of state and global royalty.



In another change, the coronation themes mirrored his lifelong interest in biodiversity and sustainability.



Seasonal flowers and foliage were brought, from the wind-battered Isle of Skye in northwest Scotland to Cornwall at the tip of Englands southwest coast, to fill the abbey.



Ceremonial vestments from previous coronations were reused, and the anointing oil  created from olives on groves on the Mount of Olives and perfumed with essential oils  was vegan.



Charles was anointed out of sight of the congregation behind a three-sided screen in front of the High Altar to the strains of Handels soaring anthem Zadok the Priest, sung at every coronation since 1727.



Opposition



Rishi Sunak  Britains first prime minister of colour, who gave a reading from the Bible at the service  has described the coronation as a proud expression of our history, culture and traditions.



But not everyone is convinced: polling indicates waning support for the monarchy, particularly among younger people.



Charless eldest brother Prince Andrew  sidelined due to his friendship with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein  was booed as he headed to the abbey.



Another royal exile Prince Harry, who has criticised the family since leaving for the United States in 2020, attended the coronation on his own.



Overseas, Charless position as the hereditary monarch and head of state of 14 Commonwealth countries looks increasingly fragile.



Jamaica and Belize both signalled this week that they are moving toward becoming republics, while Australia, Canada and others may eventually follow suit.



Britons struggling with the soaring cost of living have meanwhile questioned why taxpayers should stump up for the coronation, with the bill estimated to be over 100 million ($126 million).



Support



Yet the huge crowds of royal fans that have been building all week on The Mall outside Buckingham Palace indicate that the royals still have a central role in British culture and history.



Many of those camping out to watch have flown in from abroad, underlining the royal familys untouched position as Britains leading global brand.



Christine Wilen travelled from Niagara Falls in Canada for the event.



Im very excited to be here, to be part of this history, said Wilen, wearing a visor and sweatshirt in Canadian colours.



Its just too good an opportunity to miss, said Nick Demont, 60, outside the abbey. Theres a good chance I wont see another one.

Source: AFP









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Reverend Dr. Bishop Charles Abban, President of the International Clergy Association Inc. has thrown a challenge to legal practitioners and lawyers in general to uphold integrity over money and inducements.



He has also urged lawyers to prioritise fairness in the smooth administration of justice.



According to Dr. Bishop Charles Abban, who also doubles as the Executive Director of The National Association of Clergy Ghana (NACAG), the local chapter of the International Clergy Association Inc., this is the surest way to ensure a fair trial and the quest to seek justice.



On Friday 5th May 2023, the General Legal Council called some 196 students to the Ghana Bar.



It is against this background that the renowned Minister of God has made this admonition.



"Lawyers play very critical roles in the justice system so the onus is on them to ensure and demonstrate high work ethics to boost professional standards and preserve the rule of law at all times," he said.



He further charged lawyers to serve their clients and the public in truth and honesty.



About ICA & NACAG



The international clergy Association (ICA) is a body of ordained ministers of God formed on January 31st, 2008 in Accra-Ghana



Under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Charles Abban, president, Founder and life patron. ICA was constituted in line with his vision, as well as the expression of his desire to be a faithful steward of the Ministry of God, and the resource that the Lord has entrusted into his hands to bring together pastors, and Christians, as well as their extended families into common ministry and to advance the kingdom of God.



Besides, being an avenue for interaction and intra-ministerial work, the Association also seeks to provide a common teaching and training programmed, while aiding ministers in the provision of vital social service training their respective churches.



ICA provides a collaborative network of pastors across the globe, such that a pastor will have preaching appointments in other affiliated churches when he or she is out of the home country.



In this connection, ICA provides ordination, divine direction, spiritual and physical empowerment of pastors, churches and Christian organization worldwide that are engaged in Christian ministry including outreach, discipleship, missions, and economic empowerment.



It is the vision of ICAG to bring Africans together in the Diaspora for economic, social and spiritual empowerment.



It is also mandated to mobilize all Africans in the Diaspora to address issues, meet needs and build a sustainable economy for Africa.



NACAG on the other hand, is a body of ordained ministers of God or persons called by God to do his work in a professional manner, such as any professional bodies in the country. (Notable are the gifts to the church) Ephesians 4:11

Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors,

Teachers among others.



NACAG acts an advocate for minister of God in Ghana.



NACAG also helps to ordain and license member pastors who have gone through those processes already or wish to be re-ordained or licensed.



More details available on its official website:

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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His Majesty King Mohammed VI has once again demonstrated that the Amazigh people are an important component of Moroccan society.



For many years, the Amazigh, also known as Berbers, yearned for recognition in Morocco.



Each time they would celebrate their new year  on 13 January  they would take to the street to mark Yennayer. The Amazigh, sometimes called Imazighen, have their calendar derived from the Julian one, used in Europe before the Gregorian one.



In North Africa, it was used to regulate the agricultural seasons. More than anything, the celebration represents the bond between the Amazigh, their land, and the earths wealth and generosity.



Yennayer is, therefore, a festival of nature, agrarian life, rebirth, and abundance.



According to scholars, the term Yennayer is believed to be a combination of the words Yenn (One) and Ayur (month) in Amazigh. Fascinatingly, it is also the name given to the first month of their calendar.



The festival took on a formal status in the 60s when the Paris-based Academie Berbere started counting the Amazigh years from 950 BC.



But it was never an official holiday in Morocco. Nonetheless, they would proudly wear their traditional costumes and prepare Amazigh dishes as troupes performed, celebrating the dawn of a New Year in their calendar.



In recent times, the celebration of Yennayer has taken on an added significance to keep their cultural identity alive.

Not too long ago, multitudes of Berbers gathered to celebrate the new year in front of the parliament in Rabat to be able to pass their message.



The Amazigh asked that the authorities consider this holiday a day off and a national holiday. In 2021, Moroccan authorities made a commitment that they would soon recognise it as an official one.



Exactly ten years before that, their language had been recognised as an official language, alongside Arabic. This was enacted in the 2011 Constitution, thanks to King Mohammed VIs decree that came in the wake of the Arab Spring.



It was fitting for the Amazigh, whose name means proud free people.



On May 3, 2023, King Mohammed VI took it a step further, issuing a decree to institute the Amazigh New Years Day as an official paid national holiday.



In this context, His Majesty the King, may God glorify Him, has given His High Directions to the Head of Government to take the necessary measures to implement this High Royal Decision.



This Royal initiative comes to consecrate the High solicitude of which His Majesty the King, may God preserve Him, does not cease to recognise the Amazigh as an essential component of the authentic Moroccan identity, enriched by the plurality of its tributaries, and shared heritage to all Moroccans without exception.



It is also part of the constitutional consecration of the Amazigh language as an official language of the country, alongside the Arabic language, reads a statement by the Royal Office.



The development means that the Amazigh will freely enjoy Yennayer festivities with their families at the turn of the New Year, knowing their day is an official holiday.



The celebrations are primarily based around family gatherings, with most families getting up early in the morning to prepare a range of traditional dishes clad in traditional clothes.



Commonly, they prepare Couscous, with some hiding almond pieces with the promise of entrusting whoever finds it with the keys to the familys food storage room.



Other dishes common in the celebrations are tagola, a combination of corn, butter, ghee, Argan oil, and honey, and irkmen, a thick soup made from fava beans and wheat.



Music, dancing, and parades also take centre stage, with most songs expressing love, prosperity, and fertility.

Coincidentally, the years beginning coincides with the flowering of almond trees, making it an excellent occasion to hope for agricultural prosperity.



For the rural folk, the day is about resolving misunderstandings and exchanging food with neighbours.



The move by His Majesty The King promotes religious and cultural pluralism in the North African country.



It is also seen as an essential step for Moroccans to reconcile with their history and cultural identity.



The Amazigh people's population across North Africa  in countries including Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, and parts of Egypt  is estimated to be 30 million. Morocco has the highest number of Amazigh natives.



Ahead of the Gregorian calendar by 950 years, the Amazigh calendars first day falls on 13 January yearly. Other Amazigh communities in Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt start Yennayer celebrations on 12 January.



In some instances, the celebrations go on for three days. When the year 2024 kicks off in the Gregorian calendar, the Amazigh will mark the year 2974.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Police have commenced investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a Police Constable in the Western North Region on 5th May, 2023.



The Constable met his untimely death when he was allegedly shot by one of his senior colleagues of the Western Regional Police Command when they were returning from an operation last night. The victim was rushed to the hospital for medical attention but unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on arrival.



"Immediately after the incident occurred, the Inspector-General of Police dispatched a team which left Accra last night and arrived in the Region in the early hours of today to assess the situation and interact with the personnel. The team was led by Commissioner of Police Mrs. Habiba Twumasi Sarong, Director-General/Welfare," a statement signed by Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Assistant Commissioner of Police; Director, Public Affairs said.



Meanwhile, the suspect Police Officer is in custody as part of the investigation process in line with the due process of the law.



Background of incident

A police officer at the Western North Regional Police Command has been allegedley shot dead by his senior colleague.



The unfurtunate incident happened yesterday 5th May, 2023 at about 19:45pm in the wee hours on Friday when they were returning from an operation last night.



According to UTV's source, ASP Frank Nsiah, Head of Western North Regional Police intelligence Unit shot dead his junior colleague Police Constable David Gbati while returning from an assignment at Sefwi Awaso in the Bibiani-Ahnwiaso-Bekwai Municipality.



The information revealed is that ,ASP Nsiah who was then under the influence of alcohol picked an argument with his subordinates in the Police Service vehicle, resulting in the unfortunate incident.



The decease, Constable Gbati's body has been deposited at the Sefwi Wiawso mortuary while ASP Frank Nsiah, has been detained at the Bekeai Police Station pending further investigations.



Police Officers in the region are all tight lip and are not ready to provide any details about the matter.



Read full Police Statement below









Source: Peacefmonline.com with files from Kwabena Dickson, Western North Region UTV Correspondent









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Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
The former Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng has explained why he made certain disclosures in his recent report on illegal mining, popularly known as 'galamsey'.



The former Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) in his report cited some persons in government who according to him were frustrating government's efforts to fight galamsey.



Throughout our struggle with illegalities in the small-scale mining sector, what baffled me was the total disregard of the Presidents commitment to protecting the environment. I can state without any equivocation that many party officials from the national to the unit committee level had their friends, PAs, agents, relatives, financiers, or relatives engaged in illegal mining. Most of them engaged Chinese working for them.



There are appointees in the Jubilee House that are doing or supporting illegal mining or interfering with the fight against the menace, parts of his report read.



Some government communicators have however described the former Minister as "bitter" and his report full of hearsays.



Meanwhile, some of the persons accused have denied any wrongdoing.



The renowned cardiothoracic surgeon has however justified his action.



Speaking in a one-on-one interview on UTV, he explained: "The Chief of Staff asked me to write the report and give my recommendation to aid the fight against galamsey and I had to be honest with the President. I can't just write anything; I had to be brutally honest with the President"



Listen to him in the video below





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The National Coalition for Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values has urged delegates of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to retain seven parliamentarians of the party in the May 13, 2023, primaries.



According to the group, the seven Members of Parliament (MP) must be retained because of their efforts to get the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021, (anti-LGBTQI+ bill), passed, myjoyonline.com reports.



In a statement issued by its executive secretary, Moses Foh-Amoaning, the coalition added that NDC delegates owe it to Ghanaians to keep said MPs as their candidates because of their work to save the culture of the nation.



The coalition publicly prays for them to be maintained in their constituencies as Members of Parliament to continue their godly works for their constituency and the nation.



Therefore, we ask all delegates within the constituencies of these Honourable Members of Parliament to vote massively to keep them in their seat as they help steer the passage of this all-important Bill, parts of the statement is quoted by myjoyonline.com.



We are enjoined by the Holy Scripture in Nehemiah 2:18 and encouraged by Zachariah 4:6-9, that by the help of the Lord and the joint-support of all and sundry, victory shall be secured for these Seven Honourable Members of Parliament, it added.



The MPs are Samuel Nartey George, MP for Ningo-Prampram; Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, MP forHo West; Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, MP for South Dayi, and Helen Adjoa Ntoso, MP for Krachi East.



The rest include Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, MP for La Dadekotopon; Della Sowah, MP for Kpando and Alhasan Sayibu Suhuyini, MP for Tamale North.



The Parliament of Ghana is expected to debate and pass the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021 (Anti-LGBTQI bill).



This is after the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee presented the final draft of the bill, which was sponsored by a group of bi-partisan legislators led by Ningo Prampram MP Sam Nartey George, to the plenary.



If the bill is passed, persons who engage in anti-LGBTQI activities as well as those who advocate for the acceptance of these activities in Ghana are likely to be punished.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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Former Head of Communication at the Presidency, and founder of Atta Mills Institute Samuel Koku Sitsofe Anyidoho has charged the Church to speak out on bad governance and ills in society.



He said the Church is the voice of conscience and authority of God on earth therefore must speak out to influence the country with the principles and righteousness of God.



According to him, the Akufo-Addo-led government has messed up the economy leading to hardship.



Koku Anyidoho said this when addressing the 10th Eastern Presbytery Synod 2023 of the Global Evangelical Church of Ghana at Amenuveve Congregation in Koforidua.



Speaking on the theme for the program Revive Us Again O Lord! Heal and Restore Us, Koku Anyidoho said the revival of the church must lead to the revival of the country.



The theme was about revival and then healing and restoration. It is not only about the church, it is also about healing the nation, and like I said in my speech, if we dont believe in the true God, if we dont have priests if we dont have laws the nation will be in distress and I think basically that is what the church is about that the church needs to speak in a moment like this when we are in distress, he said.



Mr. Anyidoho added the first word in the anthem is God and the last word in the pledge is so help me God so the God factor in the anthem and the pledge is not things that we can toil around with. so as a believer and a church member, I think that once the EP church is talking about revival in the church that revival must translate into a revival in the nation.



Mr.Anyidoho stated for instance that, the church must be relentless in its fight against homosexuality.



 The nation needs revival because we are in challenging times all this LBGTQ kind of things that people want to introduce into the system if the church is not revived to wake up and speak for the land to be healed them we will be in trouble and so we must speak we must condemn it we must not allow it those who want to introduce it must be stopped



Thats why the anthem says we should resist oppressors' rule with all our will and might forevermore and not for a short while and so these words are powerful, this time the oppression is not coming in the form of ships to come and take slaves away the oppression is coming through legislation. So LGBTQ is introduced into the schools and your children go and come they are asking questions you cannot answer so suddenly you the parent you are confused so they are messing up society because those societies are messed up and they're sick. Somebody takes a gun, walks into a school or a shopping mall killing people every day because we are in a sick society and we must speak to revive this nation."



Mr. Koku Anyidoho who has successfully completed masters program in Ministry at the Trinity Theological Seminary to do the work of God alongside politics said,

Jesus Christ himself was a politician therefore notion that men of God should not take part in politics is untenable.



Let them hear it loud and clear that I went to Trinity purposely because of politics to use the word of God to enhance my political career so we are now going to do the politics very well using scripture. I will speak the word of God not because I am an ordained minister but because I know the word of God so face two of Koku Anyidoho is coming and Ghana politics is going to be interesting, we live only once after that there is judgement so I want to be judged by God according to his principles and not principles of men, he said.



The Eastern Presbytery Retired Synod Moderator of Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana Rev. CSP George Akuamoah Boateng explained the goal of this years 10th Eastern Presbytery Synod and said the church is targeting to break the chain of language barrier in propagating Gods message to the indigenous people and ask God to restore it members financials, spiritually, psychologically and physically.



Rev. CSP George Akuamoah Boateng Retired further revealed the church wants to change the status quo of only Ewe language communication to ethnic diversity.



Also, the church is shifting focus on economic empowerment by supporting members financially to establish small-scale businesses.





Source: starrfm









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Communication Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and current campaign lead for Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, Yaw Buaben Asamoa says, former President Mahama is no match for Alan Kyerematen should both contest for the Presidency come 2024.



According to Mr. Asamoa, former President Mahama, has nothing new to offer Ghanaians because his track records from his time as vice to president prove how bad he managed the economy.



He said the economy was a booming one when president Kufuor left power but it was returned to the IMF intervention in 2014.



Buaben was answering a question on whether Alan Kyerematen is confident of beating John Dramani Mahama should they contest in the 2024 elections, when he appeared on 'Good Evening Ghana', a political show on Metro TV.



He added that, Alans track record as a Trade Minister stands high above that of John Dramani Mahama and it is clear what Ghanaians will go for.



Mr. Buaben stressed on the fact that, after long years of staying in the opposition, the former president can not or have not come out with any possible intervention should he be given mandate.





"Unlike the former President, Alan Kyerematen ahead of declaring his intention to contest the flagbearership has come out with his Great Transformational Plan as a possible intervention to see Ghana rise again, Buaben said.



This he said makes John Dramani Mahama a no contest for Alan Kyerematen.



He also stressed that, not only does Alan beat John Mahama with such interventional plans but his NPP competitors too.



Mr. Buaben said Alan Kyerematen will still stand tall among his competitors and will come out victorious because he has restored hope in politics and the delegates are well informed about him.





Source: ghanaweb.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

President Mnangagwa's invitation to the United Kingdom to attend the coronation of King Charles III, was a breakthrough for the Second Republic as a new, fruitful phase begins in the two countries' diplomatic relations, Zanu-PF national spokesperson Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa has said.He said this as some local media outlets continue to churn out negative stories about the progress being made by the Second Republic under its engagement and the re-engagement process.In a statement yesterday, Mutsvangwa said: "The obsession with self-hate that is the editorial staple of Alpha Media Holdings has graduated to apoplectic fantasies."The mere extension of an invitation to the majestic coronation of King Charles III is an icebreaker breakthrough for His Excellency Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa and his Second Republic."Moreso, considering more than a century of a loaded and chequered interaction. Two decades before the advent of the Second Republic is particularly replete with, at times, acrid bitterness."Mutsvangwa said diplomatic agendas of what nations desire, rightly belong to the diplomatic profession."This time the focus of London sherpas was on the coronation. The spectacle in London last Saturday centred around British traditions and their pride and celebration of their constitutional monarchy."That time was even found for diplomatic exchanges between Honourable (Minister of African Affairs and Development Andrew) Mitchell and President ED Mnangagwa on the margins of this pomp and circumstance, speaks loudly about the bilateral desire to improve rapport between London and Harare."The discussion conducted in the hotel of President Mnangagwa clearly shows the exchanges extended beyond courtesies and niceties."How The Standard (newspaper) can scream headlines about failure and conjured self-hate as a nation (is unclear). The AMH mind-set subsists on a mystical fatalism to befall a ruling Zanu-PF. That the voters of Zimbabwe perpetually vote for the well-being and success of the party of the permanent Zimbabwe revolution bears no dent on their reportage of the negative," said Mutsvangwa.He added that there is no need for emphasis that agendas of diplomacy are set by pertinent and relevant government officials, and not by "self-serving editors whose keyboards ooze incessant ill will"."For additional clarity, I happened to end up entangled, albeit on the distant margins of events unfolding in far-away London. I have the satisfaction of receiving laudatory appreciation from the most authoritative point person of British diplomacy based in Harare," he said.Both delegations were mutually satisfied with the official and diplomatic interactions that took place in London.Mutsvangwa said his position is right and proper to contemptibly dismiss such unpatriotic news reports, by the privately-owned media.
The Campaign team of Dr. Kwabena Duffuor a flagbearer aspirant for the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is seeking a postponement of the May 13 Presidential Primaries over what it describes as a flawed register.



A petitioned sent to the Electoral Commission and Election Committee of NDC on May 8, 2023 under the signature Kofi Kukubor, Head of Research and Strategy with the campaign team of Dr. Duffuor stated that extensive review of the voters' register or photo album for 220 Constituencies have identified several discrepancies that render the register incomplete or inaccurate.



The campaign team said going into an election with such a register undermines the credibility and integrity of the election and capable of causing irreparable damage to the flagbearer hopeful, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, therefore demanding the following:



1. Postponement of the May 13th Presidential Primaries.



2. Stakeholders meeting to establish an agreeable roadmap that will guarantee the integrity of the voters register.



3. Clean the register within an agreeable time frame to ensure free and fair election.



4. To save the image of the NDC so that the party can have a credible voice so that the party can speak on national election matters when the need arises.



The aspiring Presidential candidate, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor has said earlier that the May 13 Presidential Primaries must be free, fair and transparent to ensure unity after the elections.



Speaking on Agoo FM in Nkawkaw on Friday, May 5, 2023 to wrap up his 4-day campaign tour to the Eastern region, Dr. Kwabena Duffuor said inaccessibility to the final compiled register a week to the polls was disturbing.



He backed his campaign team's petition to the Electoral Commission on this regard.



"Today is 5th May, we are going to the polls on 13th May but we have not received the register which is going to be used for the election. So my campaign team is demanding for the release of the register. We have written to the party so we are waiting for them. There are rules and regulations about any election. My name could be conspicuously missing during the day of the election, what will I do in that situation. Am I going to fight or what, no. Reason we want to get access to the register to ensure that all qualified delegates are on the register," Dr Duffuor lamented.



The former Finance Minister and Governor of the Central Bank of Ghana, Dr. Duffuor added, "Why is the register not out? If this happened in National elections and it is just a week ahead what would they have done. We are not litigating, we just want to have access to the register to ensure every qualified delegates name is on the register so we go to the polls to vote fairly and peacefully. I am praying that they do the right things".



Nonetheless, he called on his supporters to remain calm and be peaceful to ensure unity in the NDC after the election to enable the party defeat the ruling New Patriotic Party in the 2024 general election.



Dr. Kwabena Duffuor is contesting the Presidential Primaries with former President John Mahama and former Mayor of Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Kojo Bonsu.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The 31-year-old man charged this weekend with shooting and wounding his 3-year-old son inside a Grays Ferry home last week concocted a cover story with the boys mother in an attempt to avoid being charged, according to Philadelphia police.

James Weldon was arrested Saturday by U.S. Marshals and Philadelphia police, and court records show he was arraigned Saturday night on charges including conspiracy, weapons offenses, endangering the welfare of a child, and obstruction. He was being held on $3 million bail in that case, the records show.

Weldon was not eligible to possess a gun because he had several previous convictions for drug and gun offenses. He was also out on bail at the time of the shooting for drug crimes he was charged with in January, court records show.
VAN BUREN, N.Y.  A 24-year-old Van Buren, N.Y. man has been accused of extorting central New York children after he hacked into their social media and stole naked photos of them, police said.

The man targeted kids attending Pine Grove Middle School in the East Syracuse Minoa School district, police said. Police, however, said they believe there are other victims.

Police said they also found thousands of images of infant to pre-teen pornography that they believe he produced with a local child, as well two illegal assault weapons in his home.

Louis E. Frantangelo Jr., 24, was arrested and charged April 28 after the FBI, town of Manlius police and New York State Police executed a search warrant at his home, the State Police announced Monday.

The search was made after police received numerous reports of sexual exploitation from children aged 10 to 14, police said.

Multiple students reported to Manlius police that someone hacked into their Snapchat accounts and stole naked images of them, police said. The person would then extort the children for additional nude photos under the threat of sending the ones he had to their families and friends at the school, police said.

In one instance, the suspect identified the location of the middle school child and parked outside the childs residence, police said.

During the search of Frantangelos home, investigators discovered and seized two illegal AR-style firearms, body armor, child pornography, and illegal fireworks, police said.

A State Police forensic unit found thousands of images of child pornography ranging in age from infant to pre-teen, police said. State police allege the child pornography was produced with a local child.

There also was evidence of narcotics and firearms trafficking.

Police said they believe the suspect may have had numerous Snapchat accounts not associated with him, including alex_jones7858. Alex Jones is far-right and an alt-right radio show host and prominent conspiracy theorist.

State Police said his mug shot photo was released because they believe he traveled to meet one middle school-aged child and may have traveled to meet others in the Syracuse area.

State police believe there may be more victims and ask anyone with knowledge to call State Police Investigator Gallo at (315) 366-6000 or Manlius Police.

Fratangelo was charged with nine felonies, three misdemeanors and one violation:

Two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon in the 2nd degree, a class C felony

Use a child in a sexual performance, class C felony

Two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, class E felony

Third-degree criminal sexual act, a class E felony

Third-degree rape, class E felony

Two counts of Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child, class E felony

Two counts of unlawful purchase of body armor, class A misdemeanor, endangering the welfare of a child and unlawfully dealing with fireworks and dangerous fireworks, a violation.

Frantangelo was arraigned and transported to the Onondaga County Justice Center, where he posted a $250,000 bond.

Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com
WILLIAMSPORT  A mother has joined her daughter in an admission that they stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from the central Pennsylvania credit union where each had been employed.

Mindy L. Plasters, 58, of New Columbia, pleaded guilty Monday in U.S. Middle District Court to a charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

Her daughter, Brittany Aikey, 35, of New Columbia, pleaded guilty to the same charge last month. Both remain free on personal recognizance pending sentencing.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur said the loss attributed to Plasters, who was the loan officer, is in the $250,000 to $550,000 range and for her daughter it is between $150,000 and $250,000.

The two admitted obtaining unauthorized loans and cash advances at the Nu Community Credit Union in Milton between 2009 and Feb. 23, 2017, by:

Applying for loans using the names of approximately 20 members of the credit union without their knowledge.

Applying for loans using the identities of credit union members with their knowledge but giving them false information about the purpose and terms of the loans.

Falsifying financial information on member applications to qualify for loans that otherwise would not have been approved.

Obtaining the proceeds of loans for their own use not for the members whose names they used.

Obtaining cash advances for personal use utilizing members MasterCard accounts serviced by the credit union without their knowledge.

Letters prepared to advise borrowers loans were in default were not mailed and Aikey forged signatures on receipt cards, MacArthur said.

Some of the money was used to cover gambling losses, he said.

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Central Pennsylvania residents craving international food used to have to travel to New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Aside from Chinese takeout shops and Chi Chis Mexican restaurants, ethnic options here were once few and far between.
Editors note: Welcome to the world of Paranormal PA, a PennLive series that delves into Pennsylvania-grown stories of spirits (like the ghost of a murdered girl whose cries can be heard in one of Penn States library); cryptids (Bigfoot); oddities and legends; and the unexplained. Sign up here to get our Paranormal PA newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Life is full of the inexplicable. The paranormal, we dare say.

Some places are bigger hotbeds for paranormal activity than others. One in Pennsylvania is among them.

In honor of Twilight Zone Day on May 11, Lawn Love decided to rank 2023s Best Cities for Paranormal Activity.

First, Lawn Love researchers created four main categories  Sightings; Haunted Locations; Lifestyle and Community  on which to grade the U.S.s biggest 200 cities on. Relevant metrics such as Number of Ghost Sightings and UFO-Lover Friendliness for final grades.

It was the city of Baleroy Mansion and dozens of other strange phenomena  Philadelphia  that proudly represented Pennsylvania in the top 10, claiming the sixth overall spot. It should be noted that Philadelphia also ranked sixth overall under the Haunted Locations category; fifth under Lifestyle; and tied with Cleveland, Ohio, for having the third most paranormal sightings in the U.S.

(Philadelphia did, however, rank among the locations with the least paranormal conventions and events.)

But worry not, Pennsylvania residents, as Philadelphia wasnt the only city in the state to get high paranormal accolades. Pittsburgh slid into the number 15 spot, and fourth for its number of haunted sites. It was also in a two-way tie for Most Paranormal Societies and Investigative Organizations with San Antonio, Texas.

In the top three slots were Chicago, Ill. (third); New York, N.Y. (second); and Los Angeles, Calif. (first).
While judges Katy Perry and Lionel Richie are likely back from performing at the Coronation Concert for King Charles III, American Idol will not air in its usual time slot on May 8.

Instead, ABC, will air Jeopardy! Masters, hosted by Jeopardy! GOAT Ken Jennings.

The current six highest-ranking contestants will face off in a champions league style event.

The show debuts at 8 p.m. Monday, May 8, 2023, on ABC.

LIVE STREAM: Watch ABC on Watch ABC on fuboTV (free trial)

The contestants will be Matt Amodio, Sam Buttrey, Andrew He, James Holzhauer, Mattea Roach and Amy Schneider.

American Idol will return on Sunday, May 14 with the Magic of Disney episode as the Top 5 contestants perform songs from Disney live. America will vote for the Top 3 performers headed to the finale.

On Monday, May 15, the episode is called Journey to the Finale. ABC said, Featuring never-before-seen footage of this seasons finalists, this special episode takes a deeper look at the journeys from hometown to Hollywood for this seasons contestants.

The three-hour finale will air on Sunday, May 21.

What is fuboTV?

FuboTV is a streaming service that offers more than 100 live and on-demand channels and includes cloud DVR. FuboTV has a seven-day free trial. Channels include AMC, E!, HGTV, ESPN, NBC Sports, NFL Network, FS1, MSNBC, Food Network, Great American Living, Magnolia Network, Animal Planet, Bravo, FX, CMT, Comedy Central and Hallmark. The Pro plan is $69.99 a month, Elite is $79.99 a month and Ultimate is $99.99 a month. Add-ons include EPIX, Showtime and Starz.
A Columbus, Ohio, mother is behind bars and her 9-month-old baby is in critical care after hospital staff said they saw the mother inject an unknown substance into the child using a syringe, according to news sources.

Stephanie Whitley, 26, was held on a $100,000 bond after an arraignment Saturday, where her case will be considered by a grand jury for possible indictment next week.

Police were alerted when Nationwide Childrens Hospital contacted the Columbus Division of Police Physical Abuse Unit Friday about an infant being treated there. The baby was in a hospital room with her parents when staff said they saw Whitley inject an unknown substance into the child with a syringe, according to reports from WSYX and The Columbus Dispatch.

The baby was then transported to the hospitals intensive care unit where she went into cardiac arrest and CPR had to be administered. The baby stayed in critical care afterward, and toxicology reports were done to determine exactly what was injected, according to reports.

So far, what the substance was has not been made public.

A warrant was filed for Whitleys arrest, and she was taken into custody on Friday. While no charges have been filed against her husband, Whitley was charged with felonious assault and will be in court May 15 for a preliminary hearing, according to reports. She is currently in Franklin County jail.

Additionally, the couples second child has been removed from the home by Franklin County Children Services, The Columbus Disptach reported.

Fortunately, the nine-months-olds condition has stabilized.

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A Deptford police officer who was wounded in a shootout nearly 2 months ago died in the hospital Sunday morning, officials said.

Deptford Officer Robert Bobby Shisler, 27, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg during the March 10 incident and was rushed to Cooper University Hospital for what police officials called critical life-threatening injuries.

He remained in the hospital until his death on Sunday, according to Deptford Police Chief Joseph Smith.

Officer Shisler dedicated his life to the service of the residents of Deptford Township, Smith wrote in a statement. He helped ensure the safety of our community where he was born, raised, lived and worked.

Our deepest sympathies are with the Shisler family during this difficult time of bereavement, Smith continued.

Shisler stopped pedestrian Mitchell Negron Jr., 24, of Deptford, shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Delsea Drive, investigators said, and when Negron took off running, Shisler chased after him.

Both men were shot in a struggle on nearby Doman Avenue and Negron died at the scene, according to the state Attorney Generals office, which is investigating the shooting.

Details about the shooting incident remain unclear.

Negron had a Taurus .38 special revolver in his possession, according to an investigation document obtained in response to an Open Public Records Act request, but the Attorney Generals office has yet to reveal how the shooting occurred or provide details about why Negron was stopped in the first place.

Members of Negrons family have not commented publicly on the case.

Support for the wounded officer began flowing in within hours of the shooting.

A GoFundMe drive for Shisler has raised more than $124,000 as of Wednesday afternoon and other fundraising events have been added, including a hot yoga program and a car show.

Late Sunday, a crowd of about 200 people gathered outside the Deptford Township Police Department to honor Shisler. A police cruiser was decorated outside the building with candles and boquets.

Service details were unclear as of 10:30 p.m. Sunday.

We are devastated at the loss of Bobby. He gave his life protecting his community. No words can express the grief we feel. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and Deptford Police Department. We will honor this hero and his sacrifice in all we do - President Patrick Colligan pic.twitter.com/g0G3RGTjw8  New Jersey State PBA (@NJSPBA) May 7, 2023

The New Jersey State PBA also shared their condolences with all those who knew Shisler.

We are devastated at the loss of Bobby, President Patrick Colligan said. He gave his life protecting his community. No words can express the grief we feel. Our hearts go out to his family, friends and Deptford Police Department. We will honor this hero and his sacrifice in all we do.

As did New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.

His passing in the line-of-duty illustrates the risks facing law enforcement, and how every day when they put on the uniform, New Jerseys police officers also put their lives on the line to make their communities safer, Platkin said in a statement. I am grateful for the service and sacrifice of Officer Shisler and police officers across our state, and saddened by this tragic loss.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
A 17-year-old riding a motorcycle died at noon on Monday when his bike crashed into a tractor-trailer in West Pennsboro Township, according to state police.

The teen, whose name has not been released, was riding his 1999 Kawasaki motorcycle on Route 11 when he crashed into a 2017 Kenworth tractor-trailer driven by Patrick Dowler of Hagerstown, Maryland, state police said.

Dowler was pulling out of a driveway on the 3400 block of Ritner Highway, according to state police, when the teens motorcycle crashed into him.

Dowler was wearing his seatbelt and was not injured, but the teen, who was wearing a helmet, died of his injuries, state police said.

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Driver was high when he caused crash that killed Cumberland County woman: police
Hong Kong: Chris Sun begins Beijing trip

Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun started his trip to Beijing today by visiting several central ministries.

Mr Sun called on the Ministry of Civil Affairs where he met Department of Social Assistance Director General Liu Xitang and Department of Elderly Care Deputy Director Li Yongxin to exchange views on social assistance policies as well as community and residential care services for the elderly.

They explored the way forward for integration into the national development, especially intercity co-operation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Mr Sun noted that follow-up work is under way to identify possible areas of collaboration in elderly and rehabilitation services to address the challenges of an ageing population.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will tap the Mainland's experience on targeted poverty alleviation while formulating targeted poverty alleviation projects, he added.

Mr Sun also called on Ministry of Commerce Department of Outward Investment & Economic Cooperation Deputy Director General Liu Minqiang to discuss supervision, management and co-operation regarding labour to be imported to Hong Kong.

A scheme will soon be launched to import care workers for residential care homes from June to allow the importation of care workers at an appropriate scale to address the acute manpower shortage and enhance service quality. Mr Sun thanked the central ministries for their assistance in the schemes implementation, adding that the Hong Kong SAR Government will maintain co-ordination with Mainland departments to ensure the rights of imported workers are protected.

Mr Sun also met China Workers' Center for International Exchange of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions Secretary General Wang Zhoubo and visited the China Disabled Persons' Federation to meet its Vice Chairman and Executive Council Director Zhou Changkui.

They discussed labour rights issues and ways to strengthen support for people with disabilities to integrate into the community.

Additionally, the labour chief visited an elderly meal delivery centre, which began service in early April in the Xicheng District of Beijing. He took a closer look at nutritional meals for seniors and how it connects with elderly service stations in the district to cater for the diverse needs of the elderly, including those with dementia and singletons.

In a gathering with university students in Beijing, Mr Sun introduced various enhanced talent admission initiatives in Hong Kong and encouraged them to pursue development in the city.

This story has been published on: 2023-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
News / National

by Staff reporter

LORD Robin Goldsmith, the United Kingdom's minister for Overseas Territories, Commonwealth, Energy, Climate and Environment at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, has told the British Parliament that his country is concerned with growing corruption in Zimbabwe.He said the UK would engage relevant anti-graft bodies in Harare.Goldsmith of Richmond Park made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to queries put forward in the UK Parliament by House of Lords member Jonathan Oates who wanted to know whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Envoy and Ambassador-at-Large Uebert Angel could face any consequences in that country following revelation of his allegedly corrupt dealings in an Al Jazeera documentary titled The Gold Mafia."The UK sees corruption as an important barrier to economic reform and inclusive growth in Zimbabwe. We are engaging with the government of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, civil society and other actors in the fight against corruption in Zimbabwe," said Goldsmith.While responding as to whether Angel could face investigation in the UK since he stays there and has British citizenship, Goldsmith hinted that a probe could be opened on the ambassador-at-large despite his diplomatic status."Whilst Mr Angel holds a diplomatic passport he is not diplomatically accredited to the UK  countries are free to determine for themselves who they want to grant these passports to, but the passport itself does not confer any diplomatic status on the holder."We cannot comment further on specific cases at this stage," he said.Angel featured prominently in the four-part Al Jazeera investigative Gold Mafia series which showed that corrupt cartels were looting tonnes of Zimbabwe's gold, enriching themselves at the expense of the country.The documentary also showed that the cartels were all linked to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who allegedly receives payment to facilitate their operations.Zimbabwean gold was also being used to facilitate money laundering, the documentary revealed.A recent investigation by The Sentry showed that companies linked to Mnangagwa and his deputy Constantino Chiwenga were paid US$3 million by African Chrome Fields, owned by the Moti Group in dirty chrome deals.Last month, 6 473 people signed a petition on Change.org calling for the freezing of Angel's assets in the UK. The petition said that Angel, alongside Zimbabwe Miners' Federation president Henrietta Rushwaya and others, were behind money laundering and smuggling of gold out of Zimbabwe to Dubai.The petitioners said the resources and money acquired through illegal means could help rebuild Zimbabwe's collapsed economy.While Angel featured prominently in the Al Jazeera documentary that showed the depth of corruption in Zimbabwe, Mnangagwa was the protagonist as everything evolved around him after it emerged a facilitation fee of US$200 000 is demanded from private investors who want to meet him.There has been mounting pressure on Mnangagwa to fire Angel, but presidential spokesperson George Charamba has said he remains the ambassador-at-large.Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa last month said the government had ordered investigations into Al Jazeera's revelations.There has been no update on the investigations yet and no-one has been arrested.Lovemore Madhuku, Angel's lawyer, last month held a Press conference in Harare and dismissed the documentary, claiming that his client was carrying out a special intelligence operation.
WELLSBORO  Construction will greatly curtail access to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon in Tioga County by way of Leonard Harrison State Park this summer.

However, full access from the west rim will remain available through Colton State Park, which has five overlooks of the Pine Creek gorge.

The day use and main parking areas at the Harrison park will be closed May 15 and are expected to remain that way until Sept. 1, the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) says.

The construction project includes improvements to the park entrance and pedestrian walkways. A four-vehicle electric vehicle charging area will be part of upgrades to the parking facilities, the agency says.

The project also includes new walkways for pedestrians from the parking area to the renovated visitor center that includes an exhibit hall, a PA Wilds Conservation shop and outdoor seating.

The Leonard Harrison Turkey Path that connects the park to the Pine Creek Rail Trail will remain open as will the campground with existing reservations being honored.

Site conditions may be noisy and dusty while contractors are working so campers with reservations will have the opportunity to cancel or transfer them, DCNR says. New reservations will not be taken, it says.

As an alternative the agency is suggesting Hills Creek State Park, which has a 137-acre lake, public beach, hiking trails and concessions. That park, also in Tioga County, is about a 20-minute drive from the grand canyon.

Relocation of the existing PA Wilds Conservation Shop mobile unit to Hills Creek from Leonard Harrison has occurred, it says.

The goal is to have the Harrison park reopened for the fall foliage season, it says. The park office is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and can be reached at 570-724-3061.

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The owners of the Residences at Governors Square, one of Harrisburgs largest affordable housing complexes, have filed for bankruptcy and have informed the more than 200 tenants.

Baltimore-based Uptown Partners filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy last week in the U.S. Middle District Court of Pennsylvania. A copy of the court filing obtained by PennLive was dated May 8. The filing imposes an automatic stay on most collection activities.

The sprawling 222-unit apartment/townhouse development has been plagued with myriad problems, including dilapidated units that have been condemned. Residents have for years voiced growing grievances and concerns about conditions in the complex as well as safety issues.

Most recently, residents received water shut-off notices, although the residential management informed PennLive that the situation had been addressed and no residents would have their water supply shut off.

PennLive obtained a notice that Landex Management, which manages the property for Uptown Partners, was sending out to residents of Governors Square Monday afternoon.

The notice, in part reads:

The owner of Governors Square, Uptown Partners, LP, has filed for bankruptcy in U.S. District Court. This means Uptown Partners is asking the court to resolve the propertys financial problems and to identify a new owner.

We recognize and appreciate that you are anxious and concerned. Please know that this filing does not affect your lease here. All residents of Governors Square can remain in their homes.

Our staff will continue to do their best to operate the property in a safe, responsible way with the limited financial resources available to us.

Landex indicated the agencys hope that the court filing marks the beginning of a court-directed process for resolving the propertys financial issues and bringing some relief to meet the communitys maintenance and repair needs.

The future of the housing complex in the Camp Curtin neighborhood has for months been in flux.

In February, a lone prospective buyer that had for months attempted to acquire the property walked away from negotiations. Stephen Schuback failed to secure approval for his purchase offer, even after months of investing his own money and sweat equity in rehabbing some of the units.

Schuback had offered $12 million as part of a package to address the extensive repairs that are needed. But the City of Harrisburg and the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority stood by their decision that the right offer to acquire Governors Square is at least $22 million - the amount officials say is needed to make all the necessary repairs and refurbishment.

Matt Maisel, a city spokesman, this month told PennLive that the city has little jurisdiction over Governors Square other than enforcing code violations. The property has thousands of code violations.

The property is owned by Uptown Partners, an urban redevelopment corporation, and is under the auspices of the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority, a state agency and conduit to a $9 million federal grant provided to the owners of Governors Square by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

HUD must approve any purchase and renovation plans, including the terms of the loan repayment. It is not clear how bankruptcy would work out in this equation.

In a written statement to PennLive, Ed Cafasso, a spokesman for Landex Management, said:

We recognize and appreciate that residents of the community are anxious and concerned. This filing does not affect their leases at the property. All residents of Governors Square can remain in their homes.

He added that as the third-party property management agent for Governors Square, Landex will continue to do its best to operate the property in a safe, responsible way with the limited financial resources available to us.

PennLive reached out to Harrisburg officials as well as the Harrisburg Redevelopment Authority and the attorney representing Uptown Partners, but did not immediately hear back from anyone.
A 23-year-old Elkton man has been charged with shooting a Maryland State trooper and two deputies from the Cecil County Sheriffs Office, according to state police.

Police have the suspect in custody, according to a news release. He is being charged on counts of first- and second-degree attempted murder, first- and second-degree assault, first-degree burglary and reckless endangerment, according to police.

The trooper and two deputies were shot while responding to a burglary, along with two other deputies, in Port Deposit shortly before midnight Saturday, the release says. The two injured deputies are being treated at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware, and the trooper was treated at the University of Maryland Harford Memorial Hospital before being released. All three officers are on administrative leave.

The release says the officers were shot when they entered the backyard of a residence in the Twin Lakes Drive unit block, where a neighbor had called in about a robbery. The police did not fire back.

After the shooting, the suspect fled but was found shortly after 4 a.m. at a convenience store near the scene, where police were told he was attempting to get a ride, the release says.

An investigation is underway, and a shotgun was recovered from the original scene, according to police.

Maya Lora of the Baltimore Sun wrote this story.

2023 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard during Listening to Listeners, an original Today in Pa. segment that occurs every other Friday.

You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa at this link, or on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, and Stitcher. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit!

Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | May 8, 2023

Pennsylvania residents who misleading paid for what should have been free TurboTax tax fillings will start getting reimbursements this month. Some parties in Philadelphia are so loud, people in Jersey are complaining about them. Some new parking changes are a W for Allentown residents. And when Pennsylvanians get the drunchies  that grumbling hunger you get after you drink  this is what they like to eat.

Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa.

Todays episode refers to the following articles:

If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too.

As sponsored by Renewal by Anderson of Central PA.
A noted commentator on the high-tension intersection of race and the American criminal justice system is headlining a public forum on policing Wednesday in Harrisburg.

Paul Butler, author of the 2017 book Chokehold: Policing Black Men, will keynote a discussion intended to cover the on-the-ground effects of race on police work in Pennsylvania, and what steps can be taken to drive the quickest and most effective attacks to the problems created by bias.

The Summit on Policing is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Council of Churches, a non-partisan coalition of the several Christian religious denominations that tries to offers a faith-based perspective on issues facing state and local governments.

The forum is scheduled for a 6 p.m. start at St. Stephens Cathedral, 221 N. Front St. in Harrisburg. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Butler, a Georgetown Law professor, told the PennLive editorial board in a preview Monday that his critically-acclaimed book arose from his experiences as a federal prosecutor in Washington D.C. in the early 1990s.

At that time, Butler said, he often worked to jail other people of color, and he quickly concluded the system he operated in was undermined by racial biases.

My work as a person who wants to make a difference in this world has been about what I learned, Butler, who is Black, said. During the time that I did that work I learned a lot of things about how our criminal legal system doesnt work and Im going to share on Wednesday everything that I learned.

The Rev. Dr. Larry Pickens, executive director of the Council of Churches, said the impetus for the forum was the January killing of Tyree Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man beaten to death in January by a group of Memphis police officers after what began as an attempted stop for reckless driving.

We thought that this would be a good conversation to have in our community to begin looking at whats happening, learning from the experiences of people, and then beginning some conversations about what can we do to address issues that have arisen, Pickens said.

To round out Wednesdays conversation, organizers stressed they hope residents here will turn out to share their experiences with police.

Law enforcement officials will be present to hear those stories, and offer their own perspectives, as part of a discussion panel building off of Butlers remarks, including Chad Dion Lassiter, executive director of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission; David Splain, president, Pennsylvania Association of Police Chiefs; and Jennifer Gettle, Deputy District Attorney, Dauphin County.

The forum comes at a time when Blacks make up 48 percent of the current inmate population in Pennsylvanias state prison system, despite representing just 12.2 percent of the overall population, according to U.S. Census data.

Butler is a potent ice-breaker.

In his 2017 book, published in between the 2014 choking death of Eric Garner at the hands of a New York City police officer and the 2020 suffocation death of George Floyd by an officer in Minneapolis, Butler makes the case that Americas criminal justice system is in need of profound reforms.

Starting with the mythical image of Black men as thugs, Butler has argued the criminal legal system is infused from the street to the courtroom with race-based biases that reinforce white supremacy, and he has written Black and Brown families must have real conversations with each other to understand and deal with that.

The Washington Post named Butlers book one of the 50 best non-fiction books of the year, and The New York Times described it as the best read on criminal justice reform since The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration In The Age of Colorblindness in 2010.

PennLive and The Patriot-News are supporting Wednesday nights event as a media sponsor.
Concerned residents marched throughout Harrisburg on Sunday afternoon to honor those lost to gun violence and to demand stronger gun laws and regulation.

Hosted by Heeding Gods Call, a faith-based movement to prevent illegal gun violence, Harrisburg residents gathered at Capital Presbyterian Church at 3 p.m. to sing, pray, and hear community leaders talk about gun violence. Speakers ranged from Eric Jackson, local chair of Heeding Gods Call chapter in Harrisburg, and Bryan Miller, national director of Heeding Gods Call.

During the event, residents who were affected by gun violence were recognized. Ann Van Dyke, coordinator of Heeding Gods Call, mentioned that 210 people have died to gun violence in Harrisburg since 2009.

Miller said little has been achieved to prevent gun violence on the federal level, and he believes the cause is because of the American faith community.

If you look at American history, the American faith community has led every movement for social change in this county but gun violence, he said. I cant tell you why this is. But I can tell you that if we, people of faith and institutions of faith stand up and demand change, thats whats gonna bring about the change.

Miller said one of the organizations goals is to push the legislature into passing the one-handgun-a-month law, which limits individuals to no more than a single handgun within a 30-day period.

Afterward, Jackson along with community leader Ricky Banks, also known as Blind Justice, led the residents in a march from Capital Presbyterian Church to Harris A.M.E. Zion Church at 915 N 17th St. As residents marched the streets, they chanted stop the violence, seek the peace.

Banks was shot in the head in 1994, causing him to go blind when he was 16 years old. Through his experience with gun violence, Banks has made it his responsibility to inspire and spread change throughout the Harrisburg community.

God left me here for a reason and this is my reason to speak about gun violence. Put a gun down and pick up a book. Because we need to start educating ourselves and our kids. Its sad that we have to have these types of functions this place should be crowded.

Around 50 to 60 people attended.

When everyone arrived at the front of Harris A.M.E. Zion Church, music was performed by Susan Leviton, Chisuk Emuna Congregation. While standing outside, the names and ages of those killed by gun violence between 2016 and 2023 were read out loud.

Afterward, residents gathered inside of Harris A.M.E. Zion Church to sign letters to state legislators.

Hosted by Heeding God's Call to End Gun Violence organization, concerned Harrisburg residents marched from Capital Presbyterian Church to Harris A.M.E. Zion Church to honor those lost to gun violence.

Harrisburg resident Patricia Mae Reitzi said she attended the event due to unsolved case involving death of her grandson Daiquan A. Phillips,20, who was shot in the back as he tried to walk away from trouble on Dec. 26, 2021.

His family is still grieving because this case is still a mystery, Reitzi said. So I came to let everyone know that theres too much gun violence happening in all of these cities and the ages are getting younger. As a community, none of this is going to stop if we dont stand up and stand our ground. Everyone has to want a better community. It cant just be the victims family members out here fighting.

Victor Mendez used the Sunday evening event to honor his mother Maria Mendez, 35, sister Cindy Mendez, 16, and brother Jose Mendez, 27, who were all killed by gun violence between 1987 and 1989 in north Philadelphia. He said his brother was a victim of a drive-by shooting.

Times like this I get a chance to honor them by keeping them alive in my heart, he said. And the hopes that legislation will do something about the way that the guns are found on the streets.

READ MORE:

A grieving grandmother calls to end gun violence in Harrisburg

Harrisburg woman says gun violence has hit too close to home: They dont care if they kill you
PHOTO OF THE DAY: Attendees head into the Central Dauphin High School prom at the Sheraton in Swatara Township on Friday. (Photo by Mark Pynes, PennLive.com)Mark Pynes | mpynes@pennlive.com
Gov. Josh Shapiro came to the West Shore Senior Center in New Cumberland on Monday to rally support for his proposal to expand the states property tax and rebate program to reach 175,000 more senior citizens.

By increasing the size of the maximum rebate to $1,000 from the current $650 and raising the income eligibility cap for both renters and homeowners to $45,000 and tying the income cap to future cost-of-living increases, Shapiro said his plan will help more seniors (and individuals with disabilities) stay in their homes.

This is a meaningful, tangible common-sense way to help our seniors deal with rising costs, he said to a crowd of about 80 senior citizens. You all have paid into the system for a good long while, you deserve the help right now and I want to deliver on that for you as your governor.

Among those on hand was New Cumberland renter Sally Bishop, 76. She said increasing the programs income eligibility limit to $45,000  currently set at $15,000 for renters and $35,000 for homeowners  would finally qualify her for the program.

I make hundred bucks too much, Bishop said.

Getting a rebate to help put a little extra money aside from rent savings would come in handy if her car stops running.

Lets put it this way. I have a 2003 VW Passat that I bought used, Bishop said. If it breaks down, I cant afford to get it fixed.

Her 76-year-old neighbor Sally Biller is one of the 400,000 Pennsylvanians who currently receives a rebate through this program. She said she narrowly qualified for a rebate this year.

The extra money gives her a little wiggle room to ensure she can cover her grocery bill and her medical expenses, Biller said.

This has been a bad year for medical bills, she said. I had to postpone a visit to my sister and brother-in-law in Florida because I couldnt afford it.

At our age, medical bills add up real fast, Bishop added.

With this years boost in her Social Security benefits, Biller said she will no longer qualify for a rebate.

Shapiro finds that unacceptable.

Seniors should never lose out on property tax/rent rebate because they got a COLA for Social Security, the governor said.

The income limit for homeowners to qualify for this program hasnt changed in 17 years. For renters, it has been 35 years.

In 2014, the General Assembly passed a law that prevented anyone from losing a rebate due to an increase in their Social Security benefits but that law expired in 2016 and has not been renewed.

Shapiro said he remains optimistic the 2023-24 final budget package negotiated with the GOP-controlled Senate and Democratic-controlled House will include some changes to this rebate program based on comments he has heard from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

However, some lawmakers have voiced concern about tying the income limits to cost-of-living adjustments, which likely would automatically raise the programs cost every year.

Shapiro insisted money is available to cover the $130 million cost of the proposed program expansion in its first year as well as in future years as income limits rise by cost-of-living adjustments. Funding for the rebate program comes out of proceeds from the Pennsylvania Lottery and from gaming revenue.

Money will be there, Shapiro said. Its a matter of prioritizing our seniors and as governor, Im prioritizing our seniors.

West Shore Senior Center member Diane Salerno told her fellow seniors in attendance that Shapiros proposal will only happen if the General Assembly approves it. She urged them to contact their state representative and senator and ask them to support the governors proposal to bring more comfort to people to be able to stay in their home.

Shapiro said his proposal would make an additional 5,000 seniors in Cumberland and Dauphin counties eligible, in addition to the approximate 15,000 seniors who already receive rebates.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy.
The Jeopardy! Masters tournament kicks off at 8 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023, on ABC.

Jeopardy! Masters, produced by Sony Pictures Television, will be hosted by GOAT Ken Jennings, ABC said.

The current six highest-ranking contestants will face off in a champions league style event.

LIVE STREAM: Watch ABC on Watch ABC on fuboTV (free trial)

The contestants will be Matt Amodio, Sam Buttrey, Andrew He, James Holzhauer, Mattea Roach and Amy Schneider.

Games 1 and 2 will air 8-9 p.m. on the May 8 debut. Games 3 and 4 will air on Tuesday, May 9, and games 5 and 6 will air on Wednesday, May 10.

Games 9 and 10 will air on May 15, games 11 and 12 on May 16 and games 13 and 14 on May 17. The semifinals will air May 22-23 with the finals on May 24.

Amodio had a 38-game winning streak in seasons 37 and 38, winning $1,518,601.

Buttrey is the 2021 Professors Tournament champion and placed third in the 2022 Tournament of Champions.

He was a five-day champion in season 38 and placed second in the 2022 Tournament of Champions.

Holzhauer had a 32-game winning streak in season 35. He won the 2019 Tournament of Champions and finished in second place in the 2020 Jeopardy! Greatest of All Time. His total winnings are $2,962,216.

Roach competed in season 38 and is the youngest contestant currently ranked in the Top 5 for all-time consecutive games won. Roachs winnings are $560,983.

Schneider had a 40-game winning streak in season 38 and won the 2022 Tournament of Champions. Her total winnings are $1,632,800.

Ken Jennings hosts "Jeopardy! Masters" debuting on Monday, May 8, 2023, on ABC.ABC

What is fuboTV?

FuboTV is a streaming service that offers more than 100 live and on-demand channels and includes cloud DVR. FuboTV has a seven-day free trial. Channels include AMC, E!, HGTV, ESPN, NBC Sports, NFL Network, FS1, MSNBC, Food Network, Great American Living, Magnolia Network, Animal Planet, Bravo, FX, CMT, Comedy Central and Hallmark. The Pro plan is $69.99 a month, Elite is $79.99 a month and Ultimate is $99.99 a month. Add-ons include EPIX, Showtime and Starz.
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News / National

by Staff reporter

A LOCAL think-tank, the Research and Advocacy Unit (RAU), says the upcoming elections are unlikely to be different from previous ones held under the Robert Mugabe era, which were underlined by violence and weaponisation of the youth by political elites.Zimbabwe's previous elections have mainly been characterised by political violence since the days of the late former president Robert Mugabe.While President Emmerson Mnangagwa's regime has been trying to distance itself from the excesses of the Mugabe era, reality has been knocking, with research showing the shrinking of democratic space since 2017, when he came into power through a military coup.According to the RAU report titled: "What will be different in the 2023 elections?" by Larisa Chikanya, elections are not likely to be different from the old regime."The quality of elections has come under increased scrutiny in recent decades. As the most visible expression of democracy, polling day presents an opportunity for the legal contestation of political power."Yet, elections are often contentious and regularly fall short of free and fair' status. Given that fear and intimidation may have been used to prevent voters from casting their ballots, many case studies as well as anecdotal evidence suggest that electoral violence has a suppressive effect on voter turnout. This is not new to Zimbabwe."Polarisation is on the rise, trust in elected officials and between voters is declining, and frustration with a perceived inability of democracy to deliver for citizens is intensifying tensions around, and the stakes of, elections," said RAU in the report.RAU said fear and intimidation are likely to be used in the next election as has been the case in past years."The quality of elections has come under increased scrutiny in recent decades. As the most visible expression of democracy, polling day presents an opportunity for the legal contestation of political power."Given that fear and intimidation may have been used to prevent voters from casting their ballots, many case studies, as well as anecdotal evidence, suggest that electoral violence has a suppressive effect on voter turnout. This is not new to Zimbabwe."No true democracy heedlessly invades the rights of its citizens and represses people's thoughts and actions, their ability to speak their minds, and their ability to organise. Only a despot would resort to intimidation and force, silence legitimate opposition, and turn public security forces into tools of oppression.Democracy withers wherever citizens wait for the late-night knock on the door, where they rightly fear arbitrary arrest and imprisonment," read part of the report.RAU also said the country's political culture characterised by thr trampling of human rights is likely to affect the elections."Zimbabwe has a long history of a one-party and dominant political party where politics and economics have been conflated. As a result, politics in Zimbabwe has been exclusive, intolerant of opposition, and militarised."Furthermore, many of the socio-economic and political benefits of democracy have yet to be fully realised among large parts of the population. Therefore, the stakes at elections become high and the electoral contests tend to be perceived as a zero-sum game."Therefore, winning an election has become a matter of survival for the competing parties, and more importantly for the communities. This is true for the latter because the perpetrators of violence are never held to account by the law, not only do they remain influential in the communities in which they commit violence, they constantly threaten and use intimidation as a mechanism to remain in control," according to the report.RAU said the election period is also likely to see weaponisation of the youth by the elite for political gain."Furthermore, the resuscitation of the National Youth Service programme after years of not being operational before elections is quite worrying, especially considering the controversies around it during the 1st Republic. The programme's purpose was supposedly to transform and empower youths for nation building through life skills training and leadership development'."The trainees were allegedly used for political purposes, especially in rural and peri-urban areas, and linked to election-related violence, including sexual abuse and torture. There is great concern that, like its predecessor, the revived programme would be more likely primarily provide boots on the ground for the security sector and the ruling party ahead of the 2023 elections," reads part of the report.
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President Biden announced a new rule that will require airlines to compensate passengers for delayed or canceled flights.

Video of President Biden:

President Biden said:

Later this year my administration will propose historic new rule that will make it mandatory, not voluntary, but mandatory for all U.S. airlines to compensate you with meals, hotels, taxis, ride shares or  and rebooking fees and cash miles and or travel vouchers whenever they are the ones to blame for the cancellation or the delay. And thats all on top of refunding the cost of your ticket. Airline passengers in Canada, for example, in the European Union and other places already get these compensations and, guess what, it works. One study found that the European Union required airlines to compensate passengers for flight delays the number of flight delays went down.

I appreciate Secretary Buttigiegs leadership on this issue, and I hope and expect the Department of Transportation to move as quickly as it can to put this new rule in place. It matters. I know these things may not matter to the very wealthy, but they matter most to middle-class families and people struggling with the cost in the first place of getting on that airline.

I discussed how this new rule represented good government in PoliticusUSAs Daily Newsletter, which you can subscribe to here.

Biden is putting people first with these new rules. The airline industry wont be happy with having to compensate passengers for missed or delayed flights, but the President was right. Once the airlines could face having to pay passengers for their inability to deliver what customers have paid for, they will have incentive to improve their performance.

The new rule is an example of the Biden administration putting people first, and it is why he was elected after four years of the American people being ignored, and it painted the choice that voters have next year in the starkest possible light.
News / National

by Staff reporter

THE European Union recently dispatched an exploratory delegation to assess Zimbabwe's preparedness to hold free and fair elections, as well as to gauge the legislative climate ahead of the 2023 polls.The delegation was in the country for 10 days.Following the visit, the delegation will prepare a report of its observations and submit it to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the government for comments.A reliable source told The NewsHawks that the EU team made extensive observations and met different stakeholders to hear their views on Zimbabwe's preparedness to hold free and fair elections expected in August this year."They were exploring the electoral environment, the political climate as well as the legislative situation in the country to assess whether the existing laws may not be an impediment to the holding of free and free and fair elections."The team met various players that are knowledgeable about the existing situation and the political climate obtaining in the country. They will present their findings to the government and Mnangagwa so that they get their comments," said the source.The EU will be waiting to see if the government will invite its mission to come and observe the watershed elections.In the disputed 2018 elections, the EU observer mission presented its findings through chief observer Elmar Brok, member of the European Parliament, to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec), the government, Parliament, civil society and political parties.The report outlined shortfalls which included problems with the legal framework, the role of the electoral commission, and various abuses of human rights and political rights of the opposition.It urged reforms accompanied by the requisite political will of all stakeholders.The EU urged the government of Zimbabwe to prioritise the furtherance of democratic transition in the country.The recommendations made by the bloc after the 2018 elections included the need for Zimbabwe to address four key areas: the independence of the Zec, improved level playing field, the legal framework and the inclusiveness of the process.
A small task like picking trash is one way Crosland Park residents are trying to establish a sense of community in their neighborhood .

Crosland Park residents spent Friday morning picking up litter part of a neighborhood cleanup.

Bulky items such as washers, dryers and mattresses also could be disposed of for free during the cleanup.

The event was sponsored by Aiken Public Services, Palmetto Pride and the Crosland Park Neighborhood Cooperative.

The cleanup was the first one to be held since the COVID-19 pandemic, and there are plans to have cleanups twice a year.

Crosland Park resident Charles Means said he wanted to participate in the cleanup to make sure his neighborhood not only looks good for himself, but also for his neighbors.

Means said in the past a lot of people would come out and help, but with time he hopes more people will help in the future neighborhood cleanups.

If we get consistent with it, it will catch on, he said.

Thomas Emerson has lived in the neighborhood since the 1980s and joined the effort because he said it was needed.

Emerson said he found lots of beer bottles where he lives on Morton Avenue, and that improving a neighborhood starts with self-respect and being a leader who is willing to make change.

If I can demonstrate the willingness, then I can get people to join me, he said.

Jody Weidenhoft joined in the cleanup after she saw Emerson picking up trash .

I always lived in an apartment and we always had someone clean up for us," Weidenhoft said. "Now that I am a homeowner, I want to take pride in my neighborhood. I saw Mr. Emerson ... and decided to join him."

Sarah Herring, a solid waste administrator with Aiken Public Works, who doesn't live in the neighborhood, also pitched in to help.

Its an important neighborhood in the city of Aiken, and I think the residents need to know that the city of Aiken cares about whats here, she said.

Raymond Hall has lived in the neighborhood for over 20 years and said people should make an area look nice. Cleaning up a neighborhood is one way to fix a problem instead of complaining, he said.

Hall said he hopes that if others see that he is helping clean up the neighborhood that they will start to do the same.

You would hope to think it will inspire and motivate people to do that and join us. We are not just helping ourselves; we are trying to help everyone, Hall said.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low 67F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
Aiken Regional Medical Centers has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education for its second graduate medical education program, internal medicine. The program will attract, train and retain physicians to the Central Savannah River Area and provide Aiken and surrounding areas with increased access to care.

Our team is committed to educating and training the next generation of physicians, and we are proud to be able to offer an additional residency training program at Aiken Regional, said Matt Merrifield, chief executive officer at Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The continued growth of our residency programs is a huge benefit to Aiken and the surrounding communities, increasing access to high-quality care.

The comprehensive clinical capabilities in our community continue to be the foundation of medical education and are also what attract top talent to our residency programs and community.

Aiken Regionals Internal Medicine Residency Program is a three-year (36 month) postgraduate program. The program will welcome its first 10 residents in July 2023, with three years of structured, supervised training alongside highly qualified faculty and dedicated medical staff. By July 2025, Aiken Regional will have 30 internal medicine residents on staff and in training year-round in addition to its 18 family medicine residents.

Our team is actively accepting applications for internal medicine residents to start this July, said Dr. Khalid Abusaada, internal medicine director at ARMC. Residents will train alongside dedicated physicians in both the inpatient and outpatient setting to enhance their skills as clinicians, educators and leaders in the healthcare delivery system. Our programs mission is to train residents to practice evidence-based, patient-centered, compassionate care within both the hospital and community settings, and prepare competent physicians to continue into practice or fellowship opportunities.

The goal of Aiken Regionals graduate medical education program is to help address physician shortage concerns within the CSRA and nearby areas of South Carolina. According to the American Medical Association, following residency training, 58.9% of internal medicine residents practice in the same state in which they trained.

Our goal with each of our residency programs is to attract physicians to the programs and our community, and provide advanced training, said Merrifield. We hope that as they live in our community while in residency, theyll make the decision to reside and practice in our community longterm. Its a win-win for all.

Prospective residents interested in learning more about the graduate medical education program at Aiken Regional can visit aikenregional.com/GME.
It didn't take long for Kathy Bertone and her longtime love, Murph O'Driscoll, to determine they wanted to spend their retirement years in Aiken.

Bertone, a published author and a former managing partner of a Washington, D.C., mergers and acquisitions firm, and O'Driscoll, an Irish restauranteur, recently purchased the home located 252 Laurens St. N.W. after visiting the city for the first time two months ago.

Bertone said they visited Aiken while visiting a friend in Charleston.

"Aiken was always talked about as being the horse country of the South," Bertone said. "So I had always heard about it and wanted to come."

Once in Aiken, the couple fell in love with the city immediately.

"We saw the horses, we saw the horse district," Bertone said. "And the charm and the quaintness and the beauty of the city was shocking to me; it was so nice."

The couple quickly found a Realtor, Neil Grice with Meybohm, and began looking at houses.

Bertone said Grice asked them what type of home they'd like to see. Bertone said her response was an old, historic home. She added Grice pointed them toward 252 Laurens St. N.W.

Linda Johnson, docent at the Aiken County Historical Museum, said it's unclear when the home was constructed or who decided to have it built but said she was sure the home was constructed before 1900.

She said the two most likely candidates to have had the house built are Henry Smith and E.P. Henderson.

Johnson said Smith once owned the block surrounded by Laurens Street, Edgefield Avenue, Newberry Street and Henderson Lane.

She said Smith's property was the location a group of German astronomers used to observe the transit of Venus in 1882.

Johnson said Aiken was selected because it was known for fair weather, and Smith's property was chosen because it was far enough away that the vibrations of passing trains wouldn't affect the scientific instruments they planned to use.

The remnants of the structure the German astronomers used are located at the Aiken Historical Museum.

Johnson said if Smith didn't construct the house, it's likely Henderson did within a couple of years of his 1894 purchase of the property.

She said Henderson was a prominent Aiken resident who moved to the city in 1878 to practice law with his brother, Col. D.S. Henderson.

A 1938 Aiken Standard obituary says Henderson practiced law for nearly 50 years, served as a deacon at First Presbyterian Church for several years and was a charter member of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

Bertone and O'Driscoll didn't have to go inside to know they wanted to purchase the home.

"We drove past and we said to Neil, draw up the contract," Bertone said. "We hadn't even put our house in Virginia on the market. We fell love with Aiken. We fell in love with this house. We said this feels like home."

Bertone said she had grown up in old, historic homes and her dream has always been to buy a historic home and restore it. She added they felt the home had the class and the charm of what an old, grand Southern home should be.

The next step is to return the home to its former glory, Bertone said.

"We're not going to do that much, really," Bertone said. "We're going to do the kitchen. We're going to do some of the bathrooms upstairs. We're keeping the old bones, the old beauty."

She added Kyle Kenrick of Kenrick Construction will be the general contractor for the restoration.

Bertone said Kenrick told her he knew her expectations were to have the restoration done in two or three months but was told those expectations weren't realistic. She said she expected the work to take up to half a year.
Moncks Corner, SC (29461)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Cloudy skies after midnight. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
COLUMBIA  When Columbia-area high schoolers walk through their schools doors in August for the first day of class, many of them will also have to walk through a metal detector, while others will face armed guards.

School district leaders around the area are looking to expand the presence of the security measures in their schools, despite research suggesting these efforts have a limited impact on student and staff safety and may even create a false sense of security.

The push for increased security equipment comes at the end of a semester during which local schools have been disrupted by online threats and violent incidents, including an April 25 stabbing at Ridge View High School that injured two students and sent one to the hospital.

Amid those concerns, districts have to weigh the need to secure their schools with the cost of buying and staffing metal detectors and the evidence that this particular technology might not be an effective solution to their safety issues.

"It's a balancing act," Richland Two's Chief Operations Officer Will Anderson said during an April 17 safety committee meeting. "I want my kids to come home and be safe, but I want them to not feel like they're not safe ... to not have that overbearing feeling of 'I'm in a situation where it feels like I'm always being watched.'"

Differing detection approaches

Many districts around Columbia already use metal detectors, to varying degrees.

Richland Two, the areas largest district which serves 28,500 students in northeast Richland County, uses a pop-up system, randomly choosing to screen students and staff entering a different high school two to four times a week.

Since February, the district has done 26 different screenings, according to a presentation to the district boards safety committee on May 2.

Staff members have found a gun, a stun gun, a pocket knife, a screwdriver, a half pair of scissors, a sharp edged weapon and nine keychain maces on students trying to enter school, as well as vapes, drugs and alcohol.

"We found some things that I don't think kids thought we would find," the district's Chief Operations Officer Will Anderson said.

Directly south of Richland Two, neighboring Richland One serves 22,000 students in Columbia and southeastern Richland County. Richland One started a pilot metal detector program in spring 2022, and currently screens students entering all of the districts nine high schools, as well as St. Andrews Middle School.

Administrative leaders in Lexington-Richland Five are taking a different tack in their efforts to secure schools.

Considering the possible effects on students, Superintendent Akil Ross said metal detector screenings are only for visitors without school IDs to get past the front office, not for students and staff.

"We're not screening students," Ross said at a school board meeting in August, days ahead of students' return to school. However, "if there's a reasonable suspicion in possession of a weapon, then we have that device," he said.

Ross Wise, the district's lead safety officer, said the district's research is looking at everything that's on the market, not only for weapon detectors but also for other technology like door sensors and more up-to-date cameras.

Were researching whats being utilized around the state and around the country, Wise said.

Several districts, including Richland One and Two, Lexington Two and Lexington-Richland Five also screen visitors at stadiums and arenas, in conjunction with clear bag policies. Some of those measures were put in place last year amid parents' concerns over violence in the area.

It's a shame we have to be used to it, Richland One Superintendent Craig Witherspoon said about metal detectors at district events.

Armed presence

In an effort to add another layer of protection for Lexington-Richland Five students, last year the district serving Chapin, Irmo and western parts of Columbia gave Wise and two other district security guards, all former law enforcement officers, authority to carry concealed weapons on school campuses.

However, Wise and the other two officers are not the primary responders to incidents, he said. Each school resource officer still holds that position, as well as the authority to make arrests.

After a unanimous school board vote to update the weapons policy in August, former board Chairwoman Jan Hammond said although the armed guards can't make arrests, they're allowed to use their weapons to hold people in place until the school resource officers or local police arrive on the scene.

Wise is assigned the Dutch Fork area of the district, and said he and the other two guards  Richard Catoe, serving Chapin, and Curtis Cannon, serving Irmo  are trained to handle active-shooter situations. They would only fire their weapons if they were responding to an active shooter, he said.

Lexington-Richland Five has had no incidents during the school year that called for the guards to use their weapons.

Doubling down on detectors

As school boards and administrators work to build their districts budgets for the 2023-24 school year, some are planning on putting money toward more metal detectors. Plans in Richland Countys two largest districts call for screening around 20,000 students every day in most of the county's middle and high schools.

In Richland One, that means setting aside funding to put metal detectors in middle schools as well as high schools in the 2023-24 year, Witherspoon said, with the eventual goal of also covering elementary schools.

The district is already spending $475,000 on 60 detectors for its middle and high schools, and budgeted $640,000 for security guards from the Richland County Sheriffs Department to do the screenings.

The amount of detectors and staff the district would need for its expansion would depend on the size of each school, Witherspoon said.

A proposed budget item for Richland Two would use $2.9 million to buy metal detectors for all the districts high schools and fund a contract with a private security firm to man screening stations alongside a district security staffer.

If included in the final budget, that measure would mean that all the district's high school students are screened when they get to school each day, instead of just when theirs schools are randomly selected for pop-ups.

The detectors that Richland Two already owns and uses for those random screenings would be used for pop-ups at middle schools, Anderson said, where students currently aren't screened at all.

Properly staffing the screening stations is a key difficulty ahead of the planned expansion, he said, and the district estimates that it could take as many as 160 people to man multiple detectors at all of the high schools each day.

If the plan to contract security staff doesnt work out, then the backup idea is to pay school staff stipends to work the detectors during the busiest times of the day.

Teachers would not be asked to do that additional work, board member Monica Scott emphasized during the May 2 safety committee meeting.

Mixed reviews

Some high school principals have expressed support for expanding security measures, such as Blythewood High School's Principal Matthew Sherman, who said he was "all for" metal detector screenings every day, while also highlighting the difficulty that schools could have with staffing those stations.

"Teaching and learning can't happen without being safe," he said during the district's April 17 safety committee meeting.

Westwood High School Principal Robert Jackson also said he was 100 percent supportive of putting metal detectors in his school full time, calling them a necessary evil.

But some of his students arent as sure.

The morning before a pop-up screening, Westwood freshman Heavynn Jackson, 15, said the metal detectors at the Blythewood school are very inconvenient and that they dont make her feel safe.

Her fellow freshman, 15-year-old Dominic Yeni, said he thought metal detectors would make the school a little bit safer, but pointed out that theres still the weed smell anyway.

Studies on metal detectors in schools are also skeptical about their effectiveness.

A review of academic literature about metal detectors published in 2011 found insufficient data to determine whether metal detectors reduce student violence, with some research suggesting that they may detrimentally impact student perceptions of safety.

Similarly, a 2019 review from education nonprofit WestEd also reported that a number of researchers have found that students report feeling less safe in schools where metal detectors are present," and that there are concerns about students of color being disproportionally affected.

A legislative push for metal detectors in all S.C. public schools was referred to House Committee on Education and Public Works in January 2022, never making it to General Session. Still, over the past few years metal detecting wands have been in use at middle and high schools in Charleston County, Georgetown County and Dorchester School District Four.

In Columbia, district administrators say theyre realistic about metal detectors impact on their schools.

I dont want to give the impression to the public that this is a silver bullet, Anderson said, adding that detectors are a deterrent, meant to give peace of mind to staff and students.

Witherspoon echoed that idea, saying the point behind expanding metal detectors is to add another tool to the toolbox" alongside mental health resources from school counselors.

If you talk about  school safety, campus safety, Its multi-pronged, he said. Its not a one thing that is going to do it.

Click here for more news from Columbia, S.C.
NORTH CHARLESTON  How many places in the Charleston area feature a fully stocked case of warmed house-made flour and corn tortillas ready for pick-up?

I can think of just one: El Molino Supermarket, which opened at 5900 Rivers Ave. in North Charleston on April 12.

Thats just the start of what patrons will find at the second location of this Mexican superstore, owned by Jaime Tinoco and Pamela Sierra, who both grew up in Mexico.

The full-scale grocery store is a much larger version of the West Ashley original, which has found immense success despite opening in June 2020 amid the pandemic.

One of the biggest draws has been its in-house tortilleria, an operation that has grown since the expansion to North Charleston, a 37,000-square-foot location with 45 employees. The new outpost is loosely based on Mexican supermarkets Tinoco and Sierra visited in Dallas, Las Vegas and Los Angeles.

Im really happy because weve been busy all day since we opened, Sierra said.

In addition to those freshly made tortillas, El Molino North Charleston features fresh meat and seafood counters; several aisles of pantry goods imported from Mexico; a scratch bakery; artisanal ice cream shop; and taqueria churning out tacos, burritos, tamales and huaraches.

Flat, oval-shaped masa topped with a layer of beans and other toppings, huaraches are named after their shape, which mirrors the sole of a Mexican sandal, or huarache. El Molinos arrive with sliced avocado, peppers, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, cubed Mexican cheese and your choice of meat. Just like El Molinos corn tortillas, the huaraches have an earthy and rich corn flavor.

New to the North Charleston location are El Molino's house-made flour tortillas. Patrons can order them with their meal at the taqueria or pick up a stack of 20 for $3.99.

El Molino North Charleston is open 8 a.m.-9 a.m. daily. For more information, follow El Molino on Instagram @elmolino_supermarket.
EASLEY  Six miles from the boardroom where his book was banned from Pickens County schools, author Jason Reynolds spoke to a room of over 300 people who paid to hear his thoughts on writing, superheroes and outlawing literature.

More than anything, I want Easley to know that when I say I love the children of this country, I mean all of them, Reynolds said during his May 5 visit. And thats despite what some of their parents may feel about me, what some of the parents and politicians and whoever else may feel about me. Im going to show up regardless, Im going to stand up with whatever courage I have left to come here and say, I know that the kids here dont have any problem with me.

The Pickens County Library System invited Reynolds to speak about his new book, Miles Morales: Suspended, a novel about the Marvel superhero, who is a half-Black and half-Hispanic iteration of Spider-Man franchise.

Reynolds co-authored Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You with Ibram X. Kendi, which was taught in a Pickens County high school English class before its ban in October.

"Stamped" has been a favorite target in the recent push to ban books on race, gender and sexuality from schools in South Carolina and across the country.

If nothing else, Reynolds told the sold-out audience at the Captain Kimberly Hampton Memorial Library that he must be doing something right to have his work associated with controversy.

Honestly, its weird to me. I have so many questions about it, Reynolds said. Are we banning their video games? Are we going to ban YouTube, TikTok? Are we banning music? Its a fascinating thing that the book is what they fear the most.

He said he anticipates the sharp minds and creativity of Gen Z and Gen Alpha will make book bans less of an issue in the future, but he said children are the ones being hurt most by the new policies and the lawsuits that follow, such as the one Pickens County families and the local NAACP chapter filed in federal court after Stamped was banned.

The hourlong chat didnt focus on book bans or Stamped, though the undercurrent of both were felt as he discussed his writing process and the importance of literacy.

When children have access to books that allow them to think critically, its not just about adults lacking capacity to answer difficult questions, Reynolds said.

Its more about, What if my kid reads this book and believes themselves to be bigger? What if my kid reads this book and recognizes that they actually are the giants? Reynolds said. What if my kid reads this book and now knows that daddy might be a racist?

The event was hosted by the library system, Fiction Addiction bookstore and the Clemson Area African American Museum.

Spencer Donovan contributed to this report.
News / National

by Staff reporter

WHILE President Emmerson Mnangagwa is meeting junior British government officials like Andrew Mitchell, minister of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame is engaging at the highest levels of British politics and society.Kagame met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at No. 10 Downing Street, the highest office in the land, on Thursday. Mnangagwa and Kagame are good allies.Mnangagwa, who met business executives, cannot get anywhere near Whitehall as diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and Britain remain frosty over the past two decades due to policy differences, stolen elections and human rights violations.Zimbabwe is currently not a member of the Commonwealth after it withdrew in 2003 following its suspension for violating values and principle of the 1991 Harare Declaration.Sunak opened the meeting by conveying his sympathies to all those affected by the devastating floods in Rwanda in recent days.The British Prime Minister also paid tribute to Kagame's leadership of the Commonwealth as current chair-in-office. The leaders discussed the unique opportunities the grouping offered, including in trade, tackling the climate crisis and youth empowerment.Reflecting on the deep partnership between the UK and Rwanda, Sunak said he hoped to be able to broaden cooperation between the two countries, especially in trade and cyber security.Discussing the UK and Rwanda's Migration and Economic Development Partnership, the Prime Minister updated on the court process and reiterated his commitment to operationalise the policy and begin flights to Rwanda at the earliest opportunity.The leaders also discussed international security challenges, including in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine. The leaders agreed on the importance of securing a just peace for Ukraine and working together to alleviate the global impact of Russia's aggression.The two leaders met at No. 10 Downing Street and reiterated their commitment to pursuing the partnership between the two countries to have asylum seekers relocated to Rwanda, as a measure to deter illegal immigration and criminal activities around it."Rwanda and UK are great friends. We've demonstrated that with our migration and economic partnership which helps in leading the way in finding global solutions to share international challenges," Sunak said.On Friday, 5 May, at Marlborough House, the Commonwealth secretariat headquarters, Kagame joined King Charles III as well as leaders from across the Commonwealth and secretary-general Patricia Scotland for the Commonwealth leaders' meeting.Mnangagwa was naturally not there due to Zimbabwe's international isolation.Zimbabwe joined the Commonwealth at Independence from Britain in 1980.However, in 2002, the organisation suspended Zimbabwe for a year for breaching its values and principles in relation to a disputed election.In 2003, the Commonwealth decided to extend the suspension indefinitely and Zimbabwe's late former president Robert Mugabe withdrew the country from the Commonwealth.In November 2017, Mugabe, who had been president for 37 years, was ousted in a coup. He was replaced by Mnangagwa.In 2018, Zimbabwe began the process of rejoining the Commonwealth. In response to a letter from Mnangagwa, Scotland said that she looked forward to Zimbabwe's return "when the conditions are right".The Commonwealth explained that to rejoin, Zimbabwe would need to show compliance with the fundamental values set out in the Commonwealth charter, including respect for democracy and the rule of law, as well as protection of human rights.It also said that the membership process required an informal assessment to be undertaken by representatives of the secretary-general, followed by consultation with other Commonwealth countries.In 2021, the Zimbabwean government said that it was in the second stage of a four-part process for rejoining, with the application undergoing consultation among Commonwealth members.In November 2022, a delegation led by the assistant secretary-general, Luis Franceschi, visited Harare. The visit was part of the informal process of assessment for Zimbabwe's readmission into the Commonwealth.Following the mission, Franceschi said that Zimbabwe had made "significant progress in its journey to rejoin the Commonwealth family".He said that all the stakeholders he had engaged with had been supportive of readmission and that "we will work together towards that shared goal to ensure this process reaches its proper conclusion".
Over the past five years, Greenville County dedicated $1 million each year to affordable housing. The agreements timeline has expired and affordable housing advocates within the county are pushing for far greater funding.

Some County Council members say they recognize more urgency now to provide lower-cost housing options for residents who earn less than an average income.

Now, as the countys administrative team prepares its budget for the next two years, officials are grappling with just how much the county can afford to dedicate from tax revenue to ensure more affordable housing units can be built in the years ahead.

This comes as County Administrator Joe Kernell has said he will present a budget this year that includes a property tax increase for the first time in 28 years.

For the past five years, the county has dedicated $1 million to affordable housing through an agreement with the Greenville County Redevelopment Authority. Those funds have all been committed and have added 639 new affordable housing units in the county, said John Castile, GCRA executive director. Overall, the funding has been leveraged into $153 million in projects, according to GCRA, including rental housing, home ownership, down payment assistance, senior housing and transitional housing.

Even with those projects, the county and its core areas within the city of Greenville face a widening affordability gap brought on by the affluence and development driven by the citys popularity as a tourist destination and the countys attractiveness for jobs.

A religious-based coalition called Greenville Organized for Accountable Leadership gathered in March with more than 1,500 residents in attendance to make its request. GOAL asked for $10 million per year each from the city and county for affordable housing, said the Rev. Stacey Mills, GOALs president. It is seeking one-third of that funding to pay for housing options for residents earning below 30 percent of the area median income, roughly $27,000 per year.

The request is rooted in the 2020 Greenville Affordable Housing Strategic Plan that calls for adding 10,000 new affordable housing units by 2030, Mills said.

Based on construction costs and leveraging funds with other sources, it would take $20 million per year to reach that goal, which is how the group arrived at its request to both the city and the county, he said.

The request comes as the county grapples with its own budget priorities, including infrastructure challenges, expected population growth and public safety.

For many years, Greenville County has supported affordable housing, but weve reached a point of heightened urgency and expressed need for more affordable housing, said Councilman Butch Kirven, the councils finance committee chairman.

Kirven said the county must weigh its resources against its needs when evaluating how much it is asked to contribute to affordable housing. He said the county would do what it could if it was practical, reasonable and fiscally responsible.

I can tell you its not going to be $10 million per year, he said. More spending in one area means less spending in another area.

Meanwhile, the city of Greenville is contributing $2.5 million each year for affordable housing and recently voted to support a $30 million bond through the Greenville Housing Fund to speed up the pace of affordable projects in the city.

The county is looking for ways to continue to support affordable housing in its new budget, said County Council Chairman Dan Tripp.

Liz Seman, council vice chairwoman, said she believes affordable housing remains a priority for County Council and supports the redevelopment authoritys ability to leverage the countys funding and provide a return on its investment.

I am also thankful for the community voices pressing the county and city on affordable housing as evidenced by the work of GOAL and the tremendous turnout at their Nehemiah Action event in March, she said.

Three members of County Council  Seman, Alan Mitchell and Ennis Fant  attended that event and pledged to work toward funding more affordable housing. A majority of the city of Greenvilles council also pledged to work to contribute to the $10 million annual goal.

Seman said it would take more than the county to fund that much each year.

It will take efforts of county and city government as well as the nonprofit sector and private entities to work towards $10 million annually for affordable housing, Seman said.

The county hasnt yet revealed its proposed budget. The first year of the two-year budget must be finalized before July 1.

(Kernell) has made it emphatically clear that there will be money in the budget for affordable housing, Fant said. Were at a point now in our history that affordable housing always needs to be on the table and needs to be a part of the discussion.

To Kirvens recollection, the county had never contributed directly toward affordable housing initiatives before 2018, when it first set aside $1 million each year for workforce housing. He said the county should take an approach of attacking affordability with multiple prongs.

The county created an affordable housing policy to offer tax breaks for new developments to encourage creation of affordable units, and it has partnered with GCRA to leverage federal funding for affordable housing. This past year, GCRA spent the first $2 million of $10 million the county designated for affordable housing from its share of federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. The county also receives $1 million per year for affordable housing from its settlement with Prisma Health when the healthcare system privatized.

Kirven said he hopes the bevy of housing solutions will soon return balance to the housing market so county taxpayers eventually wont need to directly contribute revenue to affordable housing.
Before she ever enters a classroom to become an occupational therapist, College of Charleston student Kyleigh Aycock could be summoned to provide home care to a patient as easily as booking a ride through an app.

It would be through Careyaya.org, a start-up launched in 2022 in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina through universities and students there. It recently branched out to the University of South Carolina in Columbia and has just added College of Charleston to serve families in the Lowcountry.

The website provides a free service that allows families within minutes to book students in the health professions to come into the home and provide affordable companion care, such as help with grooming, meals or technology.

"I think this is just a great way to jumpstart the career and go ahead and dive into that," said Aycock, 19, a public health student looking at Medical University of South Carolina for her graduate program.

The program was borne out of founder and CEO Neal Shah's own frustrations with the home care industry after his wife developed cancer and he eventually gave up his financial sector job to become her full-time caregiver. At the same time, his parents were caring for his grandfather with dementia.

"I basically realized that the home care industry, no offense to anyone, is just completely broken," Shah said.

Home health companies can charge families $30 an hour, while paying workers less than half that to provide the care, he said. Families often can't afford it and caregivers can't live on what they are paid, leading to high turnover at those agencies, about 64 percent per year, according to studies. Even when families can pay the rates, "you feel guilty because of the quality of care and you end up doing it yourself," Shah said. "Thats what happened to me. I would not trust the care system to do it."

The need for that home care is rapidly growing, however. The number of direct care workers grew from 3.2 million in 2011 to 4.7 million in 2021. Another 1.2 million will be needed by 2030, according to the group PHI National.

In South Carolina, there were 31,750 in 2020, and 41,850 will be needed by 2030, an increase of 31.8 percent, according to projections by the Alzheimer's Association.

But more of that work is falling to family members now. There were 53 million people serving as unpaid caregivers in 2020, up from 43.5 million in 2015. One in five adults in the U.S. has taken on this role, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. In South Carolina, there were 216,000 unpaid caregivers in 2022, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

The ability to get a caregiver into the home on short notice, however, didn't seem to exist anywhere online, Shah said, the same way people can order a ride through Uber or book or rent a place through AirBnB.

"I thought that concept could be brought to caregiving, almost an 'Uberization' of caregiving, and why wasnt anyone doing it," he said.

It was also a surprise when Shah began speaking to health professions students at the University of North Carolina and others in the area. Most wanted flexible hours to work around their class schedule, but they were working for DoorDash or Uber. While they could make money, it really wasn't anything that would be helpful to their careers, such as providing clinical experience and hours.

"The health care student populations really want to provide care," Shah said. "There could be a huge unmet need on the caregivers shortage side that the students can serve, a huge unmet need for affordable home care."

Families can go on the website to book the care for free. They are linked up with students in the health professions and the families pay the students directly, usually around $15 an hour. Students in the health professions are recruited through professors and advisers at their schools and are then vetted before they can sign up.

The website is looking for people like Aycock who are aiming to go into graduate health programs, like medical school, nursing or physical therapy, who want to serve patients, Shah said.

"They want the hours and they want the experience," he said. "It just happens to be nice that they also make part-time income."

A lot of students are looking for work with flexible hours and there are many at College of Charleston who take on baby-sitting gigs, Aycock said. But she wants more than just the money.

"With Careyaya, its a great way to go ahead and kind of get a feel for working with patients," she said. "I can go straight into a grad program, having a lot of those clinical hours that are required."

What began in 2022 with just 20 students at UNC grew to 2,000 at 10 different schools across North Carolina and has now expanded to South Carolina, Shah said. In addition to USC and College of Charleston, Shah is talking to people at Clemson and Furman universities about expanding into the Greenville area.

While Careyaya is not making money now, the hope is to get large enough to partner with large corporations and insurance companies to offer it as a benefit to employees and patients, Shah said. Only about 6 percent of employers provide a direct care benefit now, but it is a growing among many who have full-time jobs while also trying to be caregivers. A study out of Harvard University found it is a major reason many have to leave their jobs, he said.

Medicare Advantage plans could also partner with the company to provide the benefit as a way of reducing their costs by avoiding falls and visits to the Emergency Room. The company claims to have prevented more than 450 falls already.

While there is some care that the students can't and shouldn't provide, there also might be an opportunity through telehealth to bring higher levels of care into the home through just cellphones, Shah said. For instance, a student could film a patient walking as a way of helping with gait assessment and fall risk, he said.

"Could we bring tech into the home, through the student caregivers as a conduit, to help people age in place longer?" he said.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

Rain showers this morning with numerous thunderstorms developing during the afternoon hours. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds light and variable.
RAVENEL  Charleston County deputies shot and killed a man May 7 who had opened fire on them during a traffic stop on Savannah Highway, according to the Sheriffs Office.

One deputy, Evan Cubbage, suffered three gunshot wounds and was taken to Medical University Hospital, according to the Sheriff's Office. He was released from the hospital that night.

The traffic stop occurred at 3:45 p.m. in a parking lot off of 4915 Savannah Highway, sheriff's spokesman Andrew Knapp told reporters at the scene, which is roughly 16 miles west of the Charleston peninsula. The parking lot sits next to an antique store and church off of a rural stretch of highway.

Sheriff Kristin Graziano offered several details the night of the shooting outside of MUSC. Cubbage, she said, had requested backup after a "brief interaction" with the driver and passenger of the vehicle. The sheriff said she did not know the reason for the traffic stop.

"After his backup arrived, a suspect in the vehicle  the passenger in the vehicle  opened fire on the deputies, striking deputy Cubbage," Graziano told reporters. "The deputies returned fire and the suspect was fatally wounded."

The Charleston County Coroner's Office has not yet identified the deceased. The other deputy, whom the sheriff did not name, was not injured by gunfire.

Deputies after the shooting detained the female driver of the vehicle. It is unclear if she faces any charges.

The Sheriffs Office has opened an internal investigation into the shooting and requested State Law Enforcement Division investigate, which is protocol for officer-involved shootings in South Carolina. Knapp said the Sheriff's Office placed both deputies who fired their weapons on paid administrative leave, which is department protocol.

Cubbage was surrounded by family the night of May 7 and in good spirits, Graziano said. The deputy started with the department in August 2020, per his LinkedIn page.

SLED agents and sheriffs investigators were on the scene throughout the afternoon and evening May 7. Northbound lanes remained closed to traffic through 7 p.m.

The shooting marks the 11th officer-involved shooting this calendar year, according to SLED reports. The last fatal officer-involved shooting in the Charleston area was in North Charleston in January 2022.
Jeremiah Volcko was poking around a North Charleston creek in 2012, next to a new construction site, when he spotted a large animal vertebra.

Days later, more emerged. Taffy Chapman, Volcko and two friends eventually pulled a 300-pound skull from the muck, which scientists have newly determined is an ancient whale previously unknown to science that once swam the warm waters of prehistoric Charleston millions of years ago.

Volcko, 45, of Mount Pleasant is a self-described fossil hunter.

"At first, I would find a few shark teeth, a few megalodon teeth," Volcko said. "And then, with this construction site, there was just more and more erosion as they built. Vertebrae just starting appearing. ... I got lucky."

Eight years later, during the pandemic lockdown, Volcko found a 30-pound skull in a neighborhood drainage ditch. He recruited his two older kids, 10 and 14, to help dig it out.

He brought the adult skull and, later, the smaller skull to paleontologists working at the College of Charleston. They had already been scratching their heads for some time about very similar skulls sitting in the college's museum drawers.

They all had remarkable teeth: fang-like front chompers, back molars shaped like scallop shells that, when glued together, looked like a cartoonish crocodile with an overbite.

Toothed versus baleen whales Fossils help us understand how whales evolved over the past 50 million years, from small land-dwelling mammals to the ocean giants we know today. They contain clues to one of science's biggest mysteries: How did whales became the biggest animals to ever roam planet earth? Some think the answer is "baleen." Toothed whales (Odontoceti): There are over 70 different species that are found from cold Arctic waters to warm tropical ones, and include dolphins, porpoises, large beaked whales and sperm whales. The group includes many extinct lineages, like the Coronodon whales of Charleston area. Baleen whales (Mysticeti): This group of filter-feeding whales is bigger in size and depend completely on eating very small animals with giant hairlike structures in their mouths. There are only 14 living species of baleen whales, with ancestors that appear much more recently in the fossil record. Source: National Museum of Natural History

These were clearly toothed baleen whales. But paleontologists had to take careful measurements of the face and jaws to determine whether Volcko's finds were new species entirely or skeletons of Coronodon havensteini, an ancient whale the college's researchers described in 2017.

"One skull looked like it was almost smiling, and that was different. ... We started calling it 'smiling whale,'" said Robert Boessenecker, a visiting professor at the College of Charleston and lead author of a new study published earlier this month describing the new specimens. "One had a flat bridge between the eye sockets, almost like a table." Table face, if you will.

The researchers turned to phylogeny, looking at 29 anatomical differences and positioning them within a supercomputer's rendering of the tree of life.

Over time, the researchers lined up five skulls in total to make a slew of new discoveries.

The 300-pound skull with the table face and tiny molars is a species new to science called Coronodon planifrons, an ancient whale that swam in the waters of modern day Charleston about 30 million years ago. The smiling one was dubbed Coronodon newtonorum.

The smaller skull turned out to be a baby. "It's undeniably cute," Boessenecker said. The juvenile specimen belongs to Coronodon havensteini, the species he discovered six years prior.

This whale family has only been found in the Lowcountry, but there's another reason why the researchers think they're special. Despite having sizable chompers, these whales may have also filtered their food: using the teeth like a net to catch large mouthfuls of krill and then pushing out the water like a sieve.

Leopard seals that live in Antarctica today can eat in this unique way, filter-feeding on krill when they're not chewing on penguins. No living whale feeds using these two approaches. But perhaps Coronodon did, long ago.

Today, sperm whales use their soda-can size teeth. Larger whales, like blue whales, don't have have teeth; they filter-feed with the coarse, hair-like baleen in their mouth.

"These fossils represent a transition between ancient whales and modern baleen whales ... it's a link. And it's really why I came out here in the first place," Boessenecker said.

In the Lowcountry, the bones and teeth of these filter-feeding beasts from the Oligocene period are seemingly everywhere.

The Oligocene is prehistoric time period when megalodon roamed the waters of modern-day Charleston. But it's also known among scientists as "the golden age of whales," when new whale species exploded and their bodies started to transition to what whales look like today.

Before the golden age, most whales still had serpentine bodies, tiny hind legs and teeth-filled snouts so reptilian that scientists mistook them for dinosaurs. Basilosaurus, a fossil whale discovered in 1839 on a plantation in Alabama, instilled wonder in early fossil hunters and still carries its original dinosaur name.

The supershark megalodon has long been admired in the Lowcountry.

Locally famous for leaving its teeth around Charleston's waterways, megalodon is the world's biggest shark and biggest predatory fish to ever exist. Fossils suggest that megalodon could have reached nearly 60 feet in length.

Boessenecker once hosted a show on Discovery Channel's "Shark Week" in which he took viewers on a California fossil hunt searching for the remains of megalodon and other sea beasts. Tall tales of megalodon sightings endure, thanks in part to false and conspiratorial content aired on "Shark Week." Scientists have called out Discovery producers for spreading misinformation about megalodon, repeatedly.

Megalodon, for certain, is gone. And Coronodons  the newly described whales  are long, long gone.

Scientists agree that megalodon endured in the waters of the Lowcountry until about 3 or 4 million years ago, fairly recent in the long bend of planetary time. But these newly discovered sea monsters adapted and changed, some evolving into today's modern whales about 10 millions years ago.

The college's Mace Brown Museum of Natural History contains more bones and teeth that Bossenecker believes could belong to other species completely new to science. He said there just aren't enough hours in the day to name them, place them in the deep scale of time and describe them in such rich detail. Still, he said, they're pressing on to try to describe one more new species before year's end.

As for the fossil hunters, they press on, too. Volcko still spends weekends looking for lost sea monsters. Morris Island is his new favorite hunting ground.

"We're pretty lucky to have what we have here," he said. "The Charleston area is fossil-rich ... it's special."

Peer inside Volcko's garage and you'll find the skull of an ancient camel, a distant relative of modern-day whales. He said there's a pile of ribs, some vertebrae and something that could be leg bone. Or not.

There used to be an ancient sea cow there, too. He donated that dugong skull to the museum, where all his discoveries will end up, to be described by scientists and debated by scientists.

There are more sea monsters, Volcko promised, waiting in his garage just next to his 2013 Ford pickup.
After a visa timing issue that canceled British performer Ebony Bones' Spoleto show, Haitian-American folk musician Leyla McCalla of all-Black women banjo group Our Native Daughters and formerly of North Carolina old-time string band The Carolina Chocolate Drops was tapped as a replacement.

McCalla is one of four performers for the festival's Front Row Series, alongside Nickel Creek, Kishi Bashi and Alisa Amador. McCalla will play at 9 p.m. May 26 in the Cistern Yard.

Before McCalla's show, The Post and Courier caught up with her.

Q: You are returning to Spoleto this spring for a concert that was just announced. What are you preparing for the show?

A: I will be presenting a concert of songs mostly from my latest album, "Breaking the Thermometer." The album serves as the soundtrack to a commissioned theater work, which shares the same name. The songs are inspired by research I did at the archives of Radio Haiti Inter, a radio station owned by an agronomist-turned-journalist named Jean Dominique who was assassinated in the year 2000. While the songs are inspired by the work of Haitian journalists in the late 20th century, I feel the struggle to create a free and independent press with no fear of repression or persecution continues worldwide. Im thrilled to be able to bring these songs to Spoleto!

Q: Tell me more about Our Native Daughters and the connection of African American heritage with the banjo. (I've also interviewed Amythyst Kiah from Our Native Daughters before she played at High Water Festival.)

A: Our Native Daughters began as a recording project conceptualized by Rhiannon Giddens and her research on the minstrel banjo. She invited us all to be a part of the project, and it became a cathartic songwriting circle and a super band. Its impossible to talk about the history of the banjo without reckoning with reality of the Atlantic slave trade. Its been a transformational project in that the themes explored on the album continue to push into all of our work as solo artists.

I met Hannah Mayree, founder of the Black Banjo Reclamation Project, many years ago while on tour on the West Coast. Its been inspiring to see the project grow over the years, how many Black people have been turned on to banjo playing as our birthright.

Q: What was it like playing with The Carolina Chocolate Drops?

A: My time touring with The Carolina Chocolate Drops was extremely formative. I found myself immersed in conversations about American history, Black history, the transatlantic slave trade and old-time music. For me, the biggest takeaway was that I could combine music, education and activism into a performing career.

Q: As for your solo career, what are you most inspired by recently, and what have you been working on?

A: I find myself inspired by contemporary thinkers, community organizers, abolitionists, writers and philosophers who are imagining new pathways to freedom. Im currently working on a collection of songs that distills some of the teachings of these writers.

Q: I just interviewed Alisa Amador about singing in Spanish and English, and you sing in three languages. How important is that to you, and how much does your music reflect your heritage?

A: My music has always been in conversation with my Haitianness. Different languages evoke different personalities. I started singing in French while learning Louisiana Cajun and Creole music. The more that I learn about Haitian history, particularly the Haitian revolution, which in 1804 founded the first independent Black nation on the principle of the abolition of slavery, the more that I realize how little is known about Haiti and its influence in the United States.

Singing in Haitian-Kreyol is very empowering because it is the language that was used to subvert the power dynamic and expel the French colonizers from the island. Its also wonderfully expressive, full of colloquial wisdom and beauty. All of that said, I do not attempt to represent all of Haiti with my music. I can only share what I am trying to understand about the world that we live in and what I feel my life is about.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-08 01:22:38

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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / May 7, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, the 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 February 18, 2021 and March 20, 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 as above 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-cs/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action by overseeing lead counsel with the goal of obtaining a fair and just resolution, you must request this position by application to 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 disclosed 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 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 due to regulatory grounds. On this news, shares of Credit Suisse fell 13.94% to close at $2.16 per ADS. Finally, on March 20, 2023, the Company announced a merger agreement with UBS, stating that it "represents the best available outcomewe are forced to reach a solution today that provides a durable outcome." On this news, shares of Credit Suisse fell 52.99% to close at $0.9450 per ADS on March 20.The first-filed case is Calhoun v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al., 23-cv-01297. A subsequently-filed case, Turner v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al., 23-cv-01476, expanded the class period. A third case filed, Linhares v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al., 23-cv-02246, further 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 www.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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ZIMBABWE'S Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) has secretly taken over the running of national elections  designed to manipulate the process in favour of the incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his government  from the military, which has always clandestinely managed polls for decades, security sources told The NewsHawks.The CIO seized control of the electoral process through a structure called Forever Associates Zimbabwe (Faz) led by CIO co-deputy director-general retired Brigadier-General Walter Tapfumaneyi (pictured).This is not a constitutional or official arrangement, but an underground operational unit campaigning for Mnangagwa and Zanu-PF in the August general elections.As a result, Faz has now displaced the army's structure called Heritage that used to perform a similar role and other functions. In 2018, the army ran elections through Heritage and Africom, a converged communication service provider.The CIO move and channelling of public resources to its shadowy structure is unconstitutional, legal experts say.Sources say, so far, Faz has received US$10 million and 200 cars to run its affairs in preparation for elections. More resources have been promised to capacitate the secret structure.Faz's mandate, working together with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and its chair Priscilla Chigumba, is to coordinate logistics and decisive forces to retain Mnangagwa in power.This has rattled the army which was previously in charge. One military commander described Faz as a "potential Frankenstein monster" during a conversation with a colleague, sources said."Faz, which is a CIO structure, has taken over the running of elections within Zanu-PF and nationally," a source said."It is run by Tapfumaneyi and is answerable to the President. It is a dangerous arrangement as this creature, which we don't even understand, and it may end up being a Frankenstein monster."The army and CIO have ongoing fierce rivalry which heightened during the coup in 2017. One CIO senior officer, Peter Munetsi, was killed by the army during the coup.The situation is worsened by Zanu-PF factionalism and an explosive power struggle over the party's unsettled leadership.Since the removal of the late former president Robert Mugabe, the leadership question has not been fully addressed, hence occasional eruptions of the problem; the deadly manifestation of the issue being the White City grenade attack in Bulawayo in June 2018.In his vigorous power consolidation process, Mnangagwa has purged nearly all key members of the coup coalition.This has left him relatively unchallenged. Even though Mnangagwa won at congress last October, those aligned to co-Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga say the succession battle is not yet over.Sources say Chiwenga is bitter because Mnangagwa hoodwinked him as they had initially agreed he was going to serve one term and hand over power to his deputy or any other candidate from the army to become state president, subject to elections.Informed sources said Faz was given the mandate to run the electoral process and elections behind-the-scenes to ensure Mnangagwa and Zanu-PF wins.This means it liaises with Zanu-PF, government institutions and electoral agencies on behalf of Mnangagwa and his party to ensure things go right and they win.This is largely informed by the need to counter a growing fear of "bhora musango" or internal sabotage.Faz is prepared, like the army always was, to rig the elections for Mnangagwa if need be.Although it is not a constitutional government body but a CIO operational structure, Faz is funded through state resources. It was given US$10 million in public funds, 200 cars and a number of CIO officers to coordinate its activities to run elections for Mnangagwa and Zanu-PF. Its personnel are secretly paid in United States dollars outside the official government payroll.Tapfumaneyi, a retired brigadier-general, runs Faz and reports directly to Mnangagwa.As part of election campaigns, Faz has already sent out a large contingent of security operatives to the ground across the country to mobilise votes for Mnangagwa and Zanu-PF.The army is also organising and campaigning for Mnangagwa in a minimal way.These structures have been going around the country holding meetings, mobilising people and putting in place logistics for Mnangagwa's election campaigns.Faz was involved in the recent controversial Zanu-PF primary elections. Norton Independent MP Temba Mliswa publicly exposed the role of Faz in the Zanu-PF primaries where his sister Mary Mliswa-Chikoka lost.A number of Zanu-PF political bigwigs lost in the primaries. Faz was blamed for their defeats.Tapfumaneyi was instrumental in the formation of Faz in 2010 under the then Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs led by former State Security Minister Didymus Mutasa.To cover up its mission and activities, Faz officials a small group of young students and members of faculty at Solusi University near Bulawayo founded the organisation to access business and empowerment opportunities then being offered under the government's Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Programme.This is just a disguise. Faz is a CIO front organisation run by Tapfumaneyi.Faz was registered as a trust under the then ministry of State for Presidential Affairs before the ministry was dissolved in 2015.Its founding trustees included Dr Bongani Ngwenya, who was the chairperson but is now in South Africa, Kudakwashe Mavula Munsaka, Kudzaiishe Mangidza and Gillian Shambare.Other founding trustees were Fungai Jonga, who is now in Spain, Trinity Mashava (Dubai, UAE) and Winfilda Chirango (Australia).Other people involved are Samson Mangozhe, Brighton, Ruvimbo Tambara and Linda Manda who are in France and South Africa.Tapfumaneyi has even reportedly put his wife Jessica, a Zanu-PF member, and son Valentine Fidel in Faz. Jessica wants to be MP for Zvimba South constituency.When the ministry of State for Presidential Affairs was dissolved in April 2015, Faz went dormant, but maintained its mission and structure as a CIO front organisation.On 12 August 2022, Faz Trust submitted an application for affiliate status to Zanu-PF in terms of section 16 (2) of the party constitution under Mnangagwa's instruction to justify getting involved in the party's affairs.CIO, police and the army under the Joint Operations Command (Joc)  a relic of the Rhodesia era  play a critical role in Zimbabwean elections. They are the cog in Zanu-PF's campaign and coercive machinery.As a result, the security agencies will play a central role in this year's elections.Mnangagwa needed to first retain his position as Zanu-PF leader at congress before being confirmed as the party's presidential election candidate.Chiwenga feels betrayed by Mnangagwa as there was a deal before the 2017 coup that the President serves one term and allows his deputy to take over in 2023.Sources say there was a warning from the CIO and other security agencies that due to Zanu-PF factionalism and divisions, as well as economic challenges, the ruling party faced turbulence.In the run up to the party's elective congress in October 2022, infighting and fragmentation intensified, putting Mnangagwa in a weaker position than he was in 2018 when he narrowly defeated his main rival, the opposition CCC leader Nelson Chamisa.Even with the power of incumbency derived from the coup, Mnangagwa only managed to scrape through with 50.8% of the vote in the disputed poll.Chamisa got 44.3% of the ballot after having had only five months to campaign as he had become his party's new leader after the death of Morgan Tsvangirai on the eve of elections.Given the deteriorating economic situation, social problems and government's failure to deliver on its November 2017 coup promises, as well as Zanu-PF internal strife, the CIO thinks Mnangagwa could possibly lose the election and needs a rescue plan. Faz is their intervention.This situation was later reinforced and worsened by Joint Operations Command (Joc) meetings and reports which constantly expressed concern that the environment was not conducive to Zanu-PF and Mnangagwa to win.Joc, a legacy of the Rhodesian colonial security apparatus which brings together the army, police and intelligence, meets weekly to assess the political, economic and security situation of the country to deal with threats timely.Apparently, Joc has warned Mnangagwa he could lose elections unless he does something key to change the situation.Tapfumaneyi then revived Faz and intervened.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-09 00:00:31

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY) announces its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023.Year-to-Date HighlightsAnnounced results from the Copper Creek Project Preliminary Economic Assessment and an updated Mineral Resource Estimate on May 3, 2023, which included:Post-tax Net Present Value(7%) of US$713 million and Internal Rate of Return of 16%.Updated Mineral Resource Estimate that has 421.9 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.45% copper for 4.2 billion pounds of contained copper in the Measured and Indicated categories, and 83.6 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.34% copper for 628 million pounds of contained copper in the Inferred category.Acquired a ranch for US$10 million on March 6, 2023, consisting of approximately 6,000 deeded acres (private land) within 32,000 acres of grazing leases as part of a land consolidation strategy around the Copper Creek Project.Completed a bought deal financing on February 14, 2023, for a total of 49,999,700 common shares sold at a price of $0.80 per common share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $39,999,760.Announced results for the Copper Creek Project drill program on March 14, 2023, February 23, 2023, January 31, 2023, and January 17, 2023.At Copper Creek Project, continued to advance the project through the ongoing 10,000-metre Phase II drill program, baseline environmental data collection, stakeholder mapping, and ongoing generative exploration study to provide a pipeline of future targets through geological mapping and geophysical data collection and interpretation.Upcoming MilestonesQ4 2023 - Initiate Phase III drill program at Copper CreekFinancial ResultsThree months ended In Canadian dollars March 31,2023 March 31,2022 Exploration and evaluation expenses $5,239,030 $2,496,962 General and administration $880,029 $362,007 Share-based compensation $690,083 $1,006,290 Net Loss $7,167,959 $4,025,997 Basic and Diluted Loss per Share $0.05 $0.04 Note: The financial information in this table was selected from the Company's condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2023 (the "Financial Statements"), which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website www.faradaycopper.com Selected Financial InformationIn Canadian dollars March 31,2023 December 31,2022 Cash and Cash Equivalents $27,801,433 $9,535,039 Net Working Capital $26,327,806 $6,642,161 Property Plant and Equipment $15,342,313 $1,444,054 Resource Properties $4,955,328 $4,955,328 Total Assets $48,422,658 $16,580,308 Note: The financial information in this table was selected from the Financial Statements, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website www.faradaycopper.com Cash flow, Liquidity and Capital ResourcesDuring the three months ended March 31, 2023, cash used in operating activities was $7,922,544 (2022 - $2,637,637), cash used in investing activities was $13,538,439 (2022 - $91,443), and cash provided by financing activities was $39,174,354 (2022 - $103,000). Cash used in investing activities was primarily related to the acquisition of the ranch on March 6, 2023.The Company is a resource exploration stage company and does not generate any revenue and has been mainly relying on equity- based financing to fund its operations. As at March 31, 2023, the Company had a net working capital of $26,327,806 (December 31, 2022 - $6,642,161). The Company will need to raise additional funding to finance its day-to-day operations and to enable the Company to achieve its long-term business objectives. On February 14, 2023, the Company completed an equity-based financing of $39,999,760 to fund its operations.The Company will require additional financing either through equity or debt financing, sale of assets, joint venture arrangements, or a combination thereof to meet its administrative costs and to continue to explore and develop its resource properties. There is no assurance that sufficient future funding will be available on a timely basis or on terms acceptable to the Company. As such, there is a material uncertainty that may cast significant doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.About Faraday CopperFaraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing two copper projects in The United States of America. The Copper Creek Project, located in Arizona, is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with open pit and bulk underground mining potential. The Contact Copper project, located in Nevada, provides potential for a low-cost open pit, heap leach, oxide project. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY".For additional information please contact:Stacey Pavlova, CFAVice President, Investor Relations & CommunicationsFaraday Copper Corp.E-mail: info@ faradaycopper.com Website: www.faradaycopper.com Cautionary Note on Forward Looking StatementsSome of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the future drilling of the Copper Creek property.Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and
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RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 7, 2023 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP( www.ktmc.com) informs investors that securities class action complaints have been filed against Credit Suisse Group AG ("Credit Suisse") (NYSE:CS). The complaints charge Credit Suisse with violations of the federal securities laws, including omissions and fraudulent misrepresentations relating to the company's business, operations, and prospects. As a result of Credit Suisse's materially misleading statements and omissions to the public, Credit Suisse's investors have suffered significant losses.CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR CREDIT SUISSE LOSSES. YOU CAN ALSO CLICK ON THE FOLLOWING LINK OR COPY AND PASTE IN YOUR BROWSER: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/credit-suisse-group-ag?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=cs&mktm=r CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HERELEAD PLAINTIFF DEADLINE: MAY 8, 2023CLASS PERIOD: FEBRUARY 18, 2021 THROUGH MARCH 20, 2023CONTACT AN ATTORNEY TO DISCUSS YOUR RIGHTS:Jonathan Naji, Esq. at (484) 270-1453 or via email at info@ ktmc.com Kessler Topaz is one of the world's foremost advocates in protecting the public against corporate fraud and other wrongdoing. Our securities fraud litigators are regularly recognized as leaders in the field individually and our firm is both feared and respected among the defense bar and the insurance bar. We are proud to have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and the classes of shareholders we represent.CREDIT SUISSE'S ALLEGED MISCONDUCTIn 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 March 10, 2022, Credit Suisse filed with the SEC its 2021 annual report on a Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2021. The 2021 annual report failed to identify any material weaknesses with Credit Suisse's internal controls.On December 1, 2022, Credit Suisse's Chairman, 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, Lehmann reiterated his previous statements, reassuring investors that as of November 11, 2022, customer outflows had "basically stopped." Following 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.Then on February 9, 2023, Credit Suisse issued a press release announcing its 2022 financial results. The press release revealed that, contrary to 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. Following 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.On February 21, 2023, Reuters reported that the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority was reviewing Lehmann's previous comments regarding customer outflows. Following 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.Then on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, Credit Suisse issued its annual 2022 report and revealed that it had identified "certain material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting" for the years 2021 and 2022. Additionally, on Wednesday, March 15, 2023, the chairman of Credit Suisse's largest shareholder, Saudi National Bank, which holds 9.88% of Credit Suisse, announced that it won't provide further financial support to Credit Suisse and that it would not buy more shares on regulatory grounds.Following this news, the price of Credit Suisse ADSs fell 13.94% to close at $2.16 per ADS on March 15, 2023.Finally, on March 20, 2023, Credit Suisse issued an announcement on Form 6-K of its merger agreement with Union Bank of Switzerland and that Union Bank of Switzerland would be the surviving entity upon closing of the merger transaction.Following this news, the price of Credit Suisse ADSs fell 52.99% to close at $0.9450 per ADS on March 20, 2023.WHAT CAN I DO?Credit Suisse investors may, no later than May 8, 2023, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff for the class, through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPor other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Credit Suisse investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. The first class action complaint against Credit Suisse, Calhoun v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al. Case No. 23-cv-01297, is filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey before the Honorable Karen McGlashan Williams.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASEWHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLPKessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaints were not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com CONTACT:Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPJonathan Naji, Esq.280 King of Prussia RoadRadnor, PA 19087(484) 270-1453info@ ktmc.com SOU
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Company Will Demonstrate 5G Solutions;CEO Allen Proithis to Join Panel Session on Private 5G Business BenefitsAUSTIN, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / GXC, a network-as-a-service communications company, announced it will participate at the upcoming Big 5G Event in Austin, Texas. The event takes place May 15-17, 2023 at the Austin Convention Center. The Big 5G Event brings together businesses, partners, vendors, and other audiences to educate them on the latest advancements and business value of 5G technology.Highlighting GXC's participation will be a reception and demonstration of its highly flexible private cellular network. Co-hosted by the 5G Open Innovation Lab (5GOIL), the reception will feature GXC quickly standing up a cellular network at a renowned Austin restaurant, and supporting a variety of business applications, including AR/VR. The reception is scheduled for May 15 from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. at Stubbs Bar-B-Q, located at 801 Red River Street in Austin, just a half mile from the Austin Convention Center. For tickets to the reception, please contact sales@ gxc.io Along with the reception, GXC chief executive officer Allen Proithis will participate in a panel discussion during the conference. His session, "The Promise of Enterprise Private Networks; Realities and Myths," will take place May 16 at 11 a.m. CT. Proithis and other industry experts will discuss the value and operational benefits that private cellular networks deliver to enterprises."The Big 5G Event provides a wonderful forum for vendors, partners, and customers to share ideas and use-cases that will accelerate the adoption of private cellular networks," said Proithis. "We are also grateful to our partners at the 5G Open Innovation Lab for co-sponsoring our reception on May 15th, and allowing us to demonstrate the efficiency, security, and performance of GXC technology in a pure business setting." GXC is a recognized leader in the development of private cellular networks for enterprise applications. The company's patented solutions enable businesses to expand coverage, improve resiliency and security, and lower network operating costs. The company recently announced the release of its GXC Onyx platform, which utilizes proprietary interference cancellation technology that enables access to devices provided in the publicly available CBRS spectrum.To learn more about GXC and its groundbreaking 5G cellular mesh architecture for enterprises, please visit www.gxc.io About GXCGXC, previously known as GenXComm, is an Austin, Texas-based company that provides groundbreaking technology for enterprise 5G networks, based on a cellular mesh architecture. This private network platform provides high levels of resiliency, flexible deployments, strong coverage in hard-to-reach areas, and a powerful distributed application platform. The company was founded in 2016 to commercialize years of research and development in interference technology out of the University of Texas at Austin. Enabling full-duplex, high-speed communication, GXC's powerful technology has the capacity to double the world's available frequency spectrum. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter and contact us here for inquiries.GXC Contact:PR ContactGlenn GoldbergParallel Communications Group516-705-6116Twitter: @Parallel_PRggoldberg@ parallelpr.com SOURCE: GXC
PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-08 15:01:35

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SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE:RAD) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Apr. 26, 2018 - Mar. 13, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 19, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/RAD Contact An Attorney Now: RAD@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Rite Aid Corporation (RAD) Securities Fraud Class Action:The litigation focuses on Rite Aid's compliance with federal regulations concerning its pharmacies' prescriptions practices and its federal healthcare program reimbursement billing.According to the complaint, Defendants made false and misleading statements or failed to disclose that Rite Aid: (1) filled hundreds of thousands of unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose until June 2019; (2) ignored evidence that its stores were dispensing unlawful prescriptions and intentionally deleted internal notes about suspicious prescribers written by concerned pharmacists; (4) violated the Controlled Substances Act by knowingly filling unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances; and (5) violated the False Claims Act when it sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs.Investors began to learn the truth on Mar. 13, 2023, when the US Department of Justice announced it filed a lawsuit against Rite Aid alleging that the company knowingly filled hundreds of thousands of unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances and knowingly submitted false or fraudulent reimbursement claims for such prescriptions to federal healthcare programs. The DOJ alleges these activities violate the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act and states, in part, "[w]hile making millions of dollars [Rite Aid] opened the floodgates for millions of pills of opioids and other controlled substances to flow illegally out of [its] stores." This news sent the price of Rite Aid shares sharply lower."We're focused on investors' losses and proving Rite Aid's decision to put profits ahead of safety enabled it to record illegally-generated revenues," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Rite Aid 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 Rite Aid 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 RAD@ 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
PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-09 00:00:16

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With event schedules back in full swing for 2023, corporates are reaching out to HeadBox for support, utilising the Events teams' industry knowledge and venue relationships to lock in their events.BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / HeadBox, the leading online platform in Australia for event spaces and experiences, is proud to announce its continued support for large organisations with their annual events calendars. According to HeadBox, since the pandemic, many businesses are under-resourced when it comes to event planning, with EA/PAs and marketing managers taking on the responsibility of planning events, resulting in increased stress and workload.venue hire Brisbane The experienced Events team at HeadBox acts as an extension of these organisations, providing a comprehensive solution to event planning and management. By taking on the heavy lifting, HeadBox allows businesses to focus on their core operations while ensuring that their events are seamlessly planned and executed. With event schedules back in full swing for 2023, HeadBox has become the go-to choice for corporates looking for support with their annual events calendar.One of the key advantages of working with HeadBox is its experienced Events team, who bring industry knowledge and venue relationships to the table. This means that businesses can take advantage of HeadBox's expertise to plan and execute events that meet their specific requirements. The team's vast network of function venues Brisbane-wide ensures that HeadBox can provide the perfect function room for any event, whether it's a product launch, conference or staff appreciation day.HeadBox's commitment to providing quality event planning and management services has resulted in the company working on over $12M worth of corporate events, with more briefs coming in every day. As the preferred choice for corporate event planning in Brisbane, HeadBox's reputation for providing seamless event solutions has led to increased demand for their services.Businesses can rest assured their events will be seamlessly planned and executed, ensuring that they meet their specific requirements while also saving time researching and saving money due to the Events teams' partnerships with suppliers and venue hire Brisbane-wide.To learn more or to search for a function room Brisbane-wide, visit HeadBox online.About HeadBoxHeadBox is Australia's fastest-growing event tech company, on a mission to reinvent the global events industry through technology. With a focus on building human-kind event tech, HeadBox is the easy way to plan meetings and events with confidence, connecting people with spaces to make brilliant things happen, everywhere.Contact InformationHeadbox AUMarketing Managerpress@ headbox.com SOURCE: HeadBox
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SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / The Shareholders Foundation, Inc. announces that a deadline is coming up in the lawsuit that was filed for certain investors in shares of Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE:CS).Investors who lost money with shares of Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE: CS) have certain options and there are short and strict deadlines running. Deadline: May 8, 2023. Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE: CS) investors should contact the Shareholders Foundation at mail@ shareholdersfoundation.com or call +1(858) 779 - 1554.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 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, Credit Suisse's Chairman reiterated his previous statements, reassuring investors that as of November 11, 2022, customer outflows had "basically stopped".Then, on February 9, 2023, Credit Suisse announced its 2022 financial results, which revealed that large customer outflows had continued through year-end 2022.On March 8, 2023, an investor filed a lawsuit against Credit Suisse Group AG over alleged securities laws violations. The plaintiff alleged that the defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that contrary to the representations made by the Credit Suisse's Chairman in December 2022, the sharp increase in customer outflows Credit Suisse began experiencing in October 2022 remained ongoing, that 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, that as a result, Credit Suisse had overstated the Company's financial position and/or prospects, and that as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.Those who purchased Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE: CS) shares should contact the Shareholders Foundation, Inc.CONTACT:Shareholders Foundation, Inc.Michael Daniels+1 (858) 779-1554mail@ shareholdersfoundation.com 3111 Camino Del Rio NorthSuite 423San Diego, CA 92108The Shareholders Foundation, Inc. is a professional portfolio legal monitoring and a settlement claim filing service, which does research related to shareholder issues and informs investors of securities class actions, settlements, judgments, and other legal related news to the stock/financial market. The Shareholders Foundation, Inc. is not a law firm. Any referenced cases, investigations, and/or settlements are not filed/initiated/reached and/or are not related to Shareholders Foundation. The information is only provided as a public service. It is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon.SOURCE: Shareholders Foundation, Inc.
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE:NSC) investors who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now.Class Period: Oct. 8, 2020 - Mar. 3, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 15, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/NSC Contact An Attorney Now: NSC@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Norfolk Southern Corporation (NSC) Securities Fraud Class Action:The complaint alleges that Defendants misrepresented and concealed material facts concerning Norfolk Southern's increased risk-taking at the expense of reasonable safety precautions due to the company's near-term focus on profits.Specifically, the company invoked a plan to, among other things, use longer, heavier trains staffed by fewer personnel, which led to increased train derailments and the risk of future catastrophic events. The complaint also alleges that while failing to make proper capital expenditures in safety risk programs, the company concurrently lobbied for policies undermining its ability to provide safe, efficient, and reliable rail transportation services.The complaint alleges that this undisclosed conduct made Norfolk Southern more susceptible to accidents that could seriously harm the company, its workers, its customers, third parties, and the environment.The true facts began to emerge on Feb. 3, 2023, when a Norfolk Southern freight train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. The derailed equipment included 11 tank cars carrying hazardous materials that subsequently ignited and required the immediate evacuation of those within a one-mile by two-mile area. According to regulators, the derailment was entirely preventable.An additional revelation of Norfolk Southern's safety lapses occurred on Mar. 14, 2023, when another of its freight trains derailed near Springfield, Ohio."We're focused on investors' losses and proving Norfolk Southern put profits over safety," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Norfolk Southern 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 Norfolk Southern 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 NSC@ 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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by Thomas Newmark of Finca Luna Nueva LodgeNORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Make chocolate in the rainforest? Of course! You'll take a thousand-year journey through the history of growing cacao and making chocolate, even using an ancient cacao grinding stone recovered from the Caribbean slope of the great Atlantic rainforest in Costa Rica. Plus, you get to drink and eat the tour, experiencing the spicy Mayan "Drink of the Gods," the silky sweetness of our hot chocolate, and bars of chocolate flavored the way you, the jungle chocolatier, like it!Learn about the brightly flavorful medicinal honey of the famous "Mariola" stingless bees? Yes, those bees are what we consider the livestock of this farm, pollinating native plant species and creating delicious honey. You'll see how we've created homes and habitats for them and how they support the great biodiversity in our fields.So, if it's a farm-to-table experience in the rainforest you're seeking, we're here to fill your senses. We can check that box! But what about filling your souls? Is there a rainforest medicine that gives you hope about the planet? We think so, and it's called regenerative farming. Farming is so often blamed for many of the world's ills, and many environmentalists feel that we need to limit farming to a bare minimum of acres, in order to conserve wilderness. Simply put, this approach says intensively and destructively farm some areas in order that other areas can survive. That ecological concept is called "sparing," and it's NOT how we approach farming here at Luna Nueva. Instead, we have a mindset of "sharing," where we produce food in a way that mimics how rainforests create food energy. We and others call this concept of farming "regenerative," reflecting that we grow food in a way that repairs and enriches our ecosystem.Read Tom's complete article here and then get ready to pack your bags - https://greenmoney.com/regenerate-and-rejoice-at-finca-luna-nueva-lodge ===Main Building, Finca Luna Nueva LodgeView additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from GreenMoney Journal on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: GreenMoney JournalWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/greenmoney-journal Email: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: GreenMoney Journal
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Renew Esthetics is distinguished by providing personalized non-invasive aesthetic medical treatments for over 17 years, Located in Astoria, NY. The medical spa specializes in esthetic laser treatments, they focus on providing unique experiences to all their patients by offering a complimentary initial consultation with comprehensive beauty information and education before starting any aesthetic medical treatments which is one of the greatest characteristics that makes them distinctive in the aesthetic field.Renew Esthetics has grown in credibility in the area earning the preference of all their patients thanks to their commitment in providing top quality result driven treatments by using innovative FDA-approved technology. All its treatments are focused on the integral beauty of the patient, in order to achieve results that transform beauty from the inside out, prioritizing on diversity and Inclusion.They offer many types of treatments, such as laser treatments for skin resurfacing and hair removal, medical facials such as chemical peels, microneedling, hydraFacial, injectables and many more, which treat conditions such as wrinkles or expression lines, scars, acne, spots, among others, performed by registered nurses, licensed medical estheticians and certified laser technicians. Dr. Roly Borges is their Medical Director and he is well-known as a Master Injectable Specialist in the field.Renew Esthetics Medical SPA works to be the best in the Medical Esthetics industry, being the best comes from how they embrace their differences within their teamwork: such as their unique talents, work ethic, track record, nationality, experiences and knowledge."Inclusion and diversity are at the heart of the Renew Esthetics culture. They are committed to provide an environment where all patients that visit us can be themselves, embrace differences and feel included and accepted as they are. We continue to learn and work every day as the world continues to evolve, this is our pride and goal." Said the CEO of the company.Renew Esthetics Medical Spa is considered the #1 medical spa in Astoria NY, and it is visited by diverse renowned personalities such as Miss Universe Lupita Jones, Univision reporter Gelena Solano, Miss Universe Honduras Rebecca Rodriguez,, Actress & Miss Universe Alicia Machado, reporter Daneida Polanco, and many others!Idalis Bailey is an accomplished CEO-Founder of Renew Esthetics Medical Spa located in Astoria, Queens, NY. She is a highly skilled Skin Care Specialist and registered nurse hailing from Colombia. Additionally, she holds an MBA in Marketing from Palermo University, and she is a NYS Licensed Medical Aesthetician & Certified Laser Technician.Over the past 17 years, Bailey has been providing top-notch skin treatments, including laser skin rejuvenation, medical facials, and laser hair removal in the New York area. She is widely regarded as an icon in laser hair removal, thanks to her unparalleled expertise in the field.Bailey arrived in the USA in 2004 and has since worked tirelessly to establish her business with the help of her son, Brian Sanchez. Despite being a teenager, Sanchez is a skilled expert in aesthetics digital marketing, and his support has been a significant motivation for Bailey.In addition, Idalis Bailey is a global leader in awareness for integral beauty, also known as Idalisbeautysavvy Idalis, international speaker, author of best-selling books, podcaster and host of "Hash Time with Idalis" and creator of "Global Integral Beauty", a platform that connects and trains professionals in the health, wellness and aesthetics sector all around the world."I have managed to build an innovative space that offers all the comforts so that my patients feel safe, accompanied and satisfied throughout their treatment. Big quality in customer service and treatments is my priority, our focus is to provide personalized services through the highest technology that offer satisfactory and effective results. We seek to generate a positive impact so that our patients enjoy a unique experience with Renew", Idalis adds.She is stepping into 2023 with some futured with amazing goals and plans for her business and for herself, such as the launching of her book "El Arte del Cuidado de la Piel", the launching of her IBS products for skin care, expanding the catalog of her facial rejuvenation products.Without a doubt, Idalis's story is a source of hard work and inspiration not only to female entrepreneurs, but to all of us. To find out more about her work, follow her on Instagram here and check out Renew's website here. You can also visit Renew's Instagram page here.About Renew Esthetics Medical Spa:Renew Esthetics Esthetics Medical Spa is a company distinguished by providing personalized non-invasive aesthetic medical treatments for over 17 years, based in Astoria, NY.Contact:Paula Henderson561-768-4444phendersonnews@ gmail.com SOURCE: Renew Esthetics Esthetics Medical Spa
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Yowie ready to give birth to series 8 - "Baby Animals"CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Yowie World is about to get a whole lot cuter! With Mother's Day right around the corner, Yowie Group Ltd., the surprise-inside confectionary company, unveiled its eighth series - Baby Animals! The series comes pre-approved by fans who voted it the most requested theme. The Baby Animals series highlights the vulnerability of young, endangered wildlife, while demonstrating the fascinating differences between the baby and adult stages of different species."I'm exceptionally happy to launch this fan-requested series." says Cynthia Thayer, the Chief Marketing Officer of educational chocolate brand, Yowie. "We asked our fans in the U.S. and Australia what types of endangered animals they most wanted to collect and learn about and their answer was loud and clear, so this newest series features endangered baby animals from all over the globe. And the cuteness factor is off the charts!"The 18 baby animal series will include:An Iberian Lynx KittenA Loggerhead Sea Turtle HatchlingA Harp Seal PupAn Asian Black Bear CubAn extra-rare mystery animalAnd many more adorable endangered and vulnerable baby animals from around the world.WHERE TO BUYThe series will begin appearing this spring in more than 30,000 retail outlets across the United States, including Walmart, Walgreens, 7Eleven, Albertson's, Meijer, SuperValu, Giant Eagle, H-E-B, Food Lion, Casey's, Circle K and many more. Fans can check the store locator on the YowieWorld.com website to find a nearby store carrying the new collectionEDUCATIONAL, FUN AND DELICIOUS OPTION FOR THE EASTER BASKETAs with previous series, the new Yowie branded endangered Baby Animal collectables come with a leaflet containing facts about the animal wrapped inside Yowie's delicious, sustainably sourced, Rainforest Alliance Certified chocolate containing no GMOs, palm oil, gluten, nuts or artificial colors and flavors. The leaflet includes a QR code leading to even more fun, educational and interactive content on YowieWorld.com New for this series, you can also download a customizable birth certificate for your new bundle of joy at YowieWorld.com plus a poster to keep track of every baby animal you collect! Yowie's website is a one-stop shop for an extensive cache of activities that will keep kids mentally engaged at home and in class all year long! It is a treasure trove of creative resources for both parents and teachers alike.Explore more of the wonderful world of Yowie on Facebook or look for @YowieWorld on Instagram and TikTok. You can also find easy, interactive, and educational craft projects and games on Yowie's YouTube channel and on Pinterest.About YowieYowie is best known for its flagship product, the Yowie surprise-inside chocolate. Each 3D Yowie chocolate is molded in the shape of the Yowie (i.e., bigfoot) characters ("yowie" is the Australian term for bigfoot or sasquatch) and contains limited-edition collectible animal toys and a full-color leaflet featuring a picture of the real-life animal, its profile and level of endangerment.The 6 clever and charismatic Yowie (aka, bigfoot) characters, Rumble, Ditty, Squish, Crag, Boof and Nap, are here to teach us about endangered animals, their habitats, and all the reasons why it's important to protect these animals in the wild.Yowie's social media channels and website allow collectors to learn more about the animals and their world while having loads of fun through games and competitions. The combination of tasty, clean-label treats, fun animal toys and a digital platform encourages kids to learn about the natural world and understand its need for protection. For more information visit www.yowieworld.com Contact: Devin Mainvilledevin@ kmkmedia.com (779) 221-3764SOURCE: Yowie Group
News / National

by Staff reporter

Local journalist Zenzele Ndebele says Zanu-PF should stop describing those who disagree with it as puppets of the West as that is ahistorical with regards to itself and even irony writ large.This presentation by Ndebele was made at the University of Zimbabwe academic conference in Harare on Thursday before it was banned.Zanu at formation in 1963 was supported by many countries around the world, including the United States.Ndebele says Zanu-PF was also called a puppet of the West, a creation of the United States' Central Intelligence Agency, by Zapu following a split within the liberation movement in 1963.Zanu-PF historically has American connections.Relations between the US and Zanu-PF have fluctuated.The late former party leader Robert Mugabe formed a close bond with Andrew Young, the US ambassador to the UN during Jimmy Carter's presidency. Carter's government was the first to open an embassy in Harare in independent Zimbabwe.Solid relations continued during the early years of the Reagan administration.Harare was one of the top three African recipients of US aid in the early 1980s.US vice-president George H.W. Bush travelled to Harare in 1982. In 1997, first lady Hillary Clinton made a goodwill visit to Zimbabwe.Ties were even deeper in the early 1960s when the US government encouraged the party's very establishment. Historian Timothy Scarnecchia, who has mined records in the US national archives, has documented the ties that Zanu forged with American officials 60 years ago.The party's core leadership in temporary exile in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (then Tanganyika), regularly consulted with US embassy officials in that country. Its leading representatives, including Mugabe, lobbied the US government for funding. (There is no evidence that the new party received any directly.)Zanu's founding president Ndabaningi Sithole received theological education in the US in the late 1950s.Archival records show that on the eve of Zanu's formation he met with State Department officials in Washington DC who connected him to private American funders. In another archived account of a meeting with the US ambassador in Tanganyika (now Tanzania) in July 1963, Leopold Takawira, subsequently Zanu's first vice-president, relayed that Sithole regarded the US as his second home.Herbert Chitepo, who became Zanu's national chair, visited the US in July 1963 and also met with American diplomats.According to a record of their conversation in the US national archives, Chitepo expressed his desire to accept US funding and defied anyone to call him an American stooge.The 11 July 1963 issue of Zimbabwe Today, a periodical produced by Zapu in Tanzania, declared that following Sithole's return from the US, "the American dollar and its ugly imperialist head is clearly visible in the actions of Sithole".Zanu-PF's assaults on Nelson Chamisa and his CCC party's supposed American connections is a "repackaging of the very attacks Mnangagwa's party faced from Zapu when it was formed 60 years ago".Although it has not been well documented, the US provided critical support during Zanu's founding in 1963. It also helped the party consolidate its authority following independence in 1980.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-05-08 04:25:42

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TOKYO, May 8, 2023 - (JCN Newswire) - TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which develops the manufacturing business of TANAKA Precious Metals, and TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Kanzaki-gun, Saga Prefecture; Representative Director & CEO: Toshiya Yamamoto), is pleased to announce that it will participate in "PCIM Europe 2023," the industry's largest international trade fair dedicated to power electronics and their fields of application, to be held from Tuesday, May 9 to Thursday, May 11, 2023, in Nuremberg, Germany. TANAKA will participate in this exhibition for the first time and will exhibit power devices (power semiconductors) and power device assembly-related components on panels.The main exhibited products will be bonding products such as "Al wires and ribbons" and "Cu wires and ribbons," which are metals that electrically connect semiconductor chips and external electrodes. Additional products include "active metal brazing material/copper composite," which can be applied to ceramic circuit boards for power devices and heat dissipation components such as heat sinks.In the power device field, there is a demand for higher output and higher efficiency. In addition to high heat dissipation, high heat resistance, and high bonding reliability for each component, urgent development is needed for materials that can be further miniaturized. By taking advantage of the precious metal technology it has cultivated over many years, TANAKA Precious Metals Group will continue to contribute to further technological innovation and meet a wide variety of needs in the power device and power device assembly fields, which are expected to become even more sophisticated in the future.PCIM Europe 2023 Exhibition Outline- Exhibition Title: PCIM (Power Conversion Intelligent Motion) Europe 2023- Dates: May 9 (Tues.) - May 11 (Thurs.) 2023, 9:00-17:00 *German local time- Venue: Nuremberg Messe (Nuremberg, Germany)- Official Site: https://pcim.mesago.com/nuernberg/en.html *Only English and German sites are available- Exhibitor: TANAKA Kikinzoku International (Europe) GmbH (A TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. overseas office)- Booth Number: Hall 9, 632- Main Exhibited Products: Al wire, Al ribbon, Cu wire, Cu ribbon, active metal brazing materials, etc.For details of each product, please refer to the following URLs.Various Bonding ProductsActive Brazing Filler MetalsTANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.- Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo- Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO- Founded: 1885- Incorporated: 1918- Capital: 500 million yen- Employees: 2,429 (including overseas subsidiaries) (March 31, 2022)- Sales: 389,646,820,000 yen* (FY2021)- Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.* Due to the adoption of the Accounting Standard for Revenue Recognition from FY2021, the net amount is given for the net sales of some transactions.TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.- Head office: 2303-15, Yoshida, Yoshinogari-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Saga- Representative Director & CEO: Toshiya Yamamoto- Established: 1961- Capital: JPY 1,880 million- Sales: JPY 33,161,116,000 (FY2021)- Employees: 845 (including overseas subsidiaries) (March 31, 2022)- Main businesses: Manufacturing of high-purity bonding wiresAbout TANAKA Precious MetalsSince its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a portfolio of products to support a diversified range of business uses focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and assets. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies in Japan and around the world collaborate and cooperate on manufacturing, sales, and technology development to offer a full range of products and services. With 5,225 employees, the Group's consolidated net sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, were 787.7 billion yen.**From the current consolidated fiscal year, the amounts of sales for some transactions are indicated as net values due to the application of the Accounting Standard for Revenue Recognition.Global industrial business websiteProduct inquiriesTANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.Press inquiriesTANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.This press release in PDF: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20230508.pdf
The Bureau of Public Enterprises has officially presented a discharge certificate to Transcorp Power Plc, delisting it from routine evaluation and monitoring exercises.

This means Transcorp Power Plc has fulfilled all the deliverables, satisfying the requirements of the post-acquisition plan (PAP) compliance.

Presenting the certificate to Tony Elumelu, the chair of Transnational Corporation Plc, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo commended the BPE for monitoring the power company and ensuring compliance with all deliverables under the Post Acquisition Plan (PAP).

Speaking at the event in Abuja on Monday, the Vice President explained that the routine evaluation and monitoring of the BPE is an essential feature of the post-acquisition plan, as it includes covenants and deliverables which the enterprise is expected to live up to. However, he acknowledged that many public institutions such as the BPE rarely get the opportunity to conduct energy-related matters successfully.

The power needs of our country are grave, and we strongly believe that the right approach is the privatization of the power sector to enable serious-minded private sector players to invest in the provision of public power and ensure that they are efficient while they make a profit at the same time, he said.

Nigeria, with an estimated population of about 200 million people, has been grappling with inadequate power supply for decades, hindering economic growth and development. The countrys power infrastructure is inadequate, resulting in frequent power outages.

To address the issue, Nigerias power sector was privatized in 2013, with the aim of improving efficiency and attracting more private sector investment. But the privatization process was plagued with challenges such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and policy inconsistencies.

READ ALSO:

Transcorp Power PLC, led by Mr Elumelu, is one of the power companies that emerged from the privatization process having complied with all of the deliverables outlined in the post-acquisition plan.

On Monday, Mr Osinbajo urged other private power companies to follow in the footsteps of Transcorp Power PLC and continue to invest in the power sector to meet the countrys power needs.

On his part, Mr Elumelu expressed gratitude to the Vice President and the federal government for their trust and confidence in the company.

He pledged to continue investing in the power sector, as he believes it holds the key to the success of Nigeria.

Mr Elumelu also highlighted Transcorp Power PLCs strong focus on indigenization, safety, and sustainability, as well as its contributions to the community through functional hospitals, schools, and job creation.

We at Transcorp Group recognize the importance of improved access to electricity. We know that with improved access to electricity, people can go to school, hospitals can function well, businesses can operate very well and most importantly can empower the industrialization of our country.

This is why we invested in power and why we continue to invest in the power sector because we know it holds the key largely to the success of our country.

Mr Vice President, let me also say that in addition to the criteria set, we actually are doing a very strong Indigenization of Transcorp Power Plc. Im proud to say that our power plant is managed and operated 100 per cent by Nigerians, he said.

He emphasised the companys commitment to high safety standards and sustainability in its operations.

I am also proud to say that safety standards are extremely high, we have operated since 2013 with no incident and we hope and pray that it will be sustained because we know the importance of safety and sustainability in todays world, he said.

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Ikeja Hotel Plc, a Nigerian hospitality company, has announced the appointment of two new directors to its board.

The announcement was made in a notification to the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public on 5 May.

The changes were made by the companys majority shareholders, with OMA Investments Limited replacing Alexander Thomopulos with Ngozi Edozien as their new representative.

The notice also stated that Fadeke Olugbemi-Oba resigned and Honeywell Group nominated Kemi Adeoye as their new representative.

The Board of Directors also appointed both Ms Edozien and Mrs Adeoye as Directors to fill the vacancies that arose as a result of the resignations.

The appointments will be ratified by members at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the company scheduled to hold on 26 July.

According to the announcement, the new directors have the necessary skills and experience to contribute significantly to the Board of Directors and help steer the company towards continued growth and success.

The company also assured shareholders that the new directors have undergone the necessary due diligence checks, meeting all regulatory requirements.

Profile

Ms Edozien is currently the Managing Director of InVivo Partners Ltd, a principal investment and advisory firm focused on venture, early-stage, and SME businesses.

She also leads a healthcare startup she co-founded, Physio Centers of Africa, in Nigeria.

She has over 30 years of experience in finance, consulting, operational management, and board governance in corporates globally.

She currently sits on several boards, including Stanbic IBTC Holdings (Nigeria), Barloworld Plc (South Africa), Guinness/Diageo (Nigeria), and Imperial Brands PLC (United Kingdom).

Mrs Adeoye is the Chief Financial Officer at Honeywell Group, responsible for accounting, financial reporting, and financial management for Honeywell Group Limited.

She has over 20 years of work experience spanning finance, accounting, and corporate treasury management.

She is a member of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

The appointment of the two new directors is expected to strengthen the boards governance structure, enhance the companys management, and contribute to the companys growth and success.

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The Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) has revealed why it implemented a five-year monitoring exercise on privatised enterprises in the Nigerian power sector.

The Director-General of BPE, Alex Okoh, made this known during the presentation of a certificate of discharge to Transcorp Power Limited in Abuja on Monday.

Transcorp Power Plc, having fulfilled all the deliverables, and satisfying the requirements of the post-acquisition plan (PAP) compliance, got delisted from routine evaluation and monitoring exercises.

At the event, Mr Okoh stated that the monitoring exercise was designed to determine the level of performance of the respective core investors and to assess their levels of compliance with the operational thresholds and covenants enshrined in the performance agreement.

The monitoring exercise was also aimed at ensuring effective and efficient management of the privatised high utilities in the generation segment of the value chain.

He noted that the privatisation of state-owned enterprises is a consequence of the global paradigm shift from public ownership and management of public utilities to allow the private sector to play a more dominant role in leveraging its financial and management capacities.

As part of the 2013 privatisation exercise, Mr Okoh said Ughelli Power PLC executed the performance agreement on 21 August 2013, with the BPE.

He said the company committed to achieving specific improvement targets over a five-year lock-in period, which covered five key areas including available capacity, capital expenditure, human resources, health, safety, and environment, and corporate social responsibility.

Following the capacity determination and validation of Ughelli Power PLC by the consultants engaged by the National Council on Privatisation, it was determined that the company had achieved an available capacity of 680.8 megawatts, which surpasses the minimum performance target of 670 megawatts.

READ ALSO: BPE presents discharge certificate to Transcorp Power

Capital expenditure totalling N58.6 billion was the covenant established for phases one and two of the post-acquisition plan, while actual investments made by the current investor were in the sum of N83.85 billion.

All the agreed benchmarks on human resources, health, safety and environment, and corporate social responsibility have also been achieved.

After exceeding the minimum performance targets and fulfilling all the agreed obligations, the National Council on Privatisation approved the request from the BPE for Transcorp Power Limited to be approved for delisting from routine monitoring.

He congratulated the board and management of Transcorp Power on the milestones achieved in turning around the operations of the power generation enterprise and expressed hope for sustained collaboration in improving the outcomes in the power sector.

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The Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja is set to commence hearing on the complaints filed by opposition political parties and their candidates challenging the president-elect, Bola Tinubus victory.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Mr Tinubu and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the 25 February poll.

However, some opposition candidates with their parties had filed their petitions within 21 days of INEC announcing the results of the results on 1 March, to challenge the outcome.

The petitioners include the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party, with its candidate, Peter Obi.

The rest are the Action Alliance (AA), the Action Peoples Party (APP) and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

The petitioners allege INECs non-compliance with the Electoral Act as well as other fraudulent practices by Mr Tinubu and his agents during the election.

With Mr Tinubus victory mired in unprecedented litigation, the election petition court commences sitting today, Monday, to determine the disputes.

A five-member panel of justices most likely to be presided over by Monica Dongban-Mensem, the President of the Court of Appeal, will conduct the pre-hearing session of the petition court on Monday.

Members of the panel will be known for the first time at the proceedings.

At Mondays proceedings, the panel will be inaugurated while the template for adjudicating on the various petitions will be reeled out.

PREMIUM TIMES is in court to bring you live updates of the sitting.

Inaugural sitting held between 9.14am and 10.30am.

10.30am: Panel went on a break.

10:45am: Court resumes sitting.

10:46am: Action Alliances petition called.

Lawyers announce appearance.

10:47am: AAs national chairman, Adekunle Omo-Aje, announces appearance in court.

10:48am: Plateau State governor, Simon Lalong, introduces self as Mr Tinubus representative.

10:48am: Court says Mr Lalong cannot represent Mr Tinubu, but APC.

10:50am: Oba Maduabuchi (SAN) announces appearance for the AA party.

10:56am: Confusion ensues as Malachi Umuebe also announces appearance for the AA party.

10:58am: Mr Maduabuchi insists Mr Umuebe does not represent the AA.

11:00am: Court discountenances Mr Umuebes appearance because he didnt file any petition on behalf of the AA party.

11:01am: Abubakar Mahmoud (SAN) announces appearance for INEC.

11:13am: Wole Olanipekun (SAN) announces appearance for Bola Tinubu, president-elect.

11:19am: AAs lawyer, Mr Maduabuchi informs court of his application seeking to withdraw his clients petition challenging Mr Tinubus victory.

11:23am: INEC lawyer, Mr Mahmoud says he has no objection to the withdrawal of the petition by AA.

11:24am: APC lawyer, Mr Fagbemi did not object to the withdrawal of the petitioners lawyer.

11: 25am: Mr Tinubus lawyer, Wole Olanipekun (SAN) also agrees with the withdrawal of the petition.

11:26am: Mr Al-Mustaphas lawyer, Sani Mohammed, has no objection to the withdrawal of the petition.

11:33am: Court dismisses AAs petition.

11:35am: Court calls another petition filed by Action Peoples Party (APP)

11:36am: Peter Abang announces appearance for Action Peoples Party (APP)

Mr Abang is the National legal adviser of APP.

11:38am: Obed Agu announces legal representation for APP.

11:41am: Wole Olanipekun (SAN) announces appearance for Mr Tinubu (respondent).

11:46am: Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) announces appearance for APC.

11:50am: Abubakar Mahmoud announces appearance for INEC.

12:05pm: Lateef Fagbemi, APCs lawyer informs court of his preliminary objection to APPs petition.

12:09pm: INEC lawyer, Abubakar Mahmoud, informs court of his clients pending applications in response to APPs petition

12:11pm: Court adjourns APPs petition until Wednesday, 10 May for continuation of hearing of the petition.

12:19pm: Court calls Peter Obis petition challenging Mr Tinubus victory.

12:20pm: Mr Obi announces appearance.

12:21pm: Obiora Ifoh, Labour Partys national publicity secretary, announces self as LPs representative.

12:22pm: May Agbamuche-Mbu announces appearance on behalf of INEC.

12:23pm: Simon Lalong, Plateau State governor, announces appearance for APC

12:24pm: Labour Partys lawyer, Livy Uzoukwu (SAN), announces appearance.

12:31pm: INEC lawyer, Mr Mahmoud announces appearance.

12:35pm: Wole Olanipekun announces appearance as lawyer to Mr Tinubu and vice president-elect, Kashim Shettima.

12:40pm: APCs lawyer, Lateef Fagbemi, announces appearance.

12:45pm: Mr Obis lawyer, Livy Uzoukwu, informs the court that he filed answers to questions raised in his clients petition.

12:49pm: INEC lawyer, Mr Mahmoud, informs court that the electoral commission has filed its responses to the pre-hearing questions.

12:50pm: Wole Olanipekun, Mr Tinubus lawyer, informs court that his client has filed his answers to the pre-hearing questions.

12:53pm: APCs lawyer, Lateef Fagbemi, says he has filed answers on behalf of his client to the pre-hearing questions of the court.

01:00pm: Court adjourns Peter Obis petition until Wednesday, 10 May.

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The Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja has assured litigants that it would do justice to all petitions before it.

A five-member panel of the court led by Haruna Tsammani, gave the assurance on Monday at its inaugural sitting at the headquarters of the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Mr Tsammani, who heads the Abuja division of the appellate court, advised lawyers against frivolous applications that could delay proceedings at the court.

Knowing full well that election matters are time-bound; let us avoid unnecessary time wasting applications.

The justice sought the cooperation of lawyers, saying let us avoid making sensational comments or statements.

Mr Tsammani noted that the court will look at the substance of the case(s) rather than unnecessary technical arguments, so that everyone that leaves here will be satisfied that justice has been done.

Members of the panel are: Haruna Tsammani, Stephen Adah, Boloukuoromo Moses Ugo, Abba Mohammed and Misitura Bolaji-Yusuf

Lawyers pledge cooperation

In response to the courts appeal, Wole Olanipekun, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and lead lawyer to Bola Tinubu, the president-elect, said lawyers were ready to cooperate with the court.

We are not unmindful of our responsibilities as members of the Bar. I want to assure your Lordships of our unflinching supports.

Whatever the court wants to do to accelerate the matters, we are ready to give the court our support, Mr Olanipekun, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Body of Benchers, said.

Speaking in the same vein, Labour Partys lawyer, Levy Uzoukwu, and Chris Uche of the PDP, both SAN, pledged their support to the court.

Mr Uzoukwu said the courts decision would deepen Nigerias election jurisprudence.

The court stood down its proceedings till 10:30 a.m.

Meanwhile, Labour Partys presidential candidate, Peter Obi, arrived the Court after the inaugural session.

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The Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja on Monday dismissed one of the five petitions challenging the victory of Bola Tinubu in the 25 February poll.

A five-member panel of the court led by Haruna Tsammani dismissed the case after the petitioners lawyer announced its withdrawal.

It was the first among the five petitions received by the court to be called for hearing.

The court earlier held its inaugural sitting during which it assured all litigants that it would do justice to all parties to the case pending before it.

Lawyers, in response, gave their commitment to cooperate with the court.

The panel members went on a short break after the ceremonial opening of the court and retuned to begin hearing AAs case.

A confusion about the legal representative of the party ensued when the partys case was called.

Oba Maduabuchi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, first announced appearance for the AA party. Another lawyer, Malachi Umuebe, also announced appearance for the party.

Mr Maduabuchi insisted that he was the partys lawyer.

The court discountenanced Mr Umuebe since he was not the one who filed the petition before the court.

Shortly after the court recognised Mr Maduabuchi, the lawyer announced the withdrawal of the case.

The respondents lawyers  Wole Olanipekun, SAN, representing Mr Tinubu, and Abubakar Mahmoud, SAN, representing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said they had no objection against the application for the withdrawal of the petition.

The court then dismissed the petition.

But the Action Alliance has urged the court to nullify the polls owing to alleged refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to upload the name of its actual presidential candidate  Solomon-David Okanigbuan  to its portal for the February poll.

The National Chairman of Action Alliance, Adekunle Omo-Aje, had said in January that Hamza Al-Mustapha, recognised by INEC was not the authentic presidential candidate of the party.

He spoke against the background of the leadership tussle rocking his party, which gave rise to the emergence of two presidential candidates.

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The National Working Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has ratified the zoning formula proposed by the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, ignoring protests by aggrieved members of the party on the lopsidedness of the arrangement.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Tinubu settled for Godswill Akpabio (South-south) and Barau Jibrin (North-west) for the senate president and deputy senate president respectively.

He also endorsed Tajudeen Abbas (North-west) and Ben Kalu (South-east) for speaker deputy speaker respectively.

The NWC ratified the arrangement on Monday during a special meeting at the national secretariat of the APC in Abuja.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, announced the ratification while briefing journalists after the meeting.

Reading a prepared speech, Mr Morka said the zoning formula was arrived at following a meeting between the leadership of the party and Mr Tinubu. He noted that the party considered the report and adopted it.

With the adoption, the party has shut out the North-central zone from the National Assembly leadership despite protests by the zone.

Read the statement by APC NWC in full:

The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) met today, Monday, May 8, 2023, to consider reports of consultations and meetings held with the President-Elect, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, other Party leaders and stakeholders on zoning arrangements for 10th National Assembly leadership positions.

The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) met today, Monday, May 8, 2023, to consider reports of consultations and meetings held with the President-Elect, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, other Party leaders and stakeholders on zoning arrangements for 10th National Assembly leadership positions.

NW called for further and better consultation with necessary stakeholders in order to assure the support of the aspirants to the National Assembly leadership positions and members of the Party nationwide.

The zoning arrangement reported to the NWC is as follows:

SENATE:

1. Senate President  South-South  Senator Godswill Akpabio (Akwa-Ibom).

2. Deputy Senate President  North West  Senator Barau Jubrin (Kano).

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES:

3. Speaker, House of Representatives  North West  Hon. Abass Tajudeen (Kaduna)

4. Deputy Speaker  South East  Hon. Ben Kalu (Abia)

We urge our party leaders, members and all Nigerians to continue to work for peace and progress of our country during and beyond the current period of leadership transition.

North-central APC members protest

While the NWC meeting was ongoing, a group of APC members staged a protest at the entrance of the partys national secretariat, demanding the inclusion of the North-central in the zoning formula.

The group, under the umbrella of APC North-Central stakeholders, described the reported arrangement as outrageous.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Salihu Ibrahim said the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Adamu, cannot afford to allow the North-central to be marginalised.

The party has not taken the North-central into consideration and it is outrageous. We the North-central have contributed largely to the development of APC and up to date we are still on it.

Why is it that the National Assembly Speaker is something that elected president and the party under the watch of Abdullahi Adamu, who is even from the North-central will not wholeheartedly say the North-central should take. The party should zone it to us.

Despite the protest, the NWC still ratified the zoning arrangement.

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On the first day of the return of Finlands Turku Court of Appeal to Liberia, all two defence witnesses said although an accused former Sierra Leonean warlord was in Liberia in 2001, it was only for peace talks.

Defence 11 and Defence 13 said Gibril Massaquoi, a former commander of Sierra Leones Revolutionary United Front (RUF), passed through Lofa County in Liberias north, before coming to Monrovia to meet Charles Taylor, the then-Liberian President to plead with him to help end the war in Sierra Leone.

In 2012, the UN-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone convicted and sentenced Taylor to 50 years in jail for fueling the Sierra Leonean war.

I saw him [Massaquoi] in Foya in 2001, where we were staying, said Defence 11, who told the Court on Friday that he was a former soldier for the RUF [identities of witnesses have been concealed to protect them from retributions].

When we came, the fighting was still in Liberia, so we divided the troops. Others went to Vahum and Kolahum, while I was in Foya as a radio commander to Eagle.

Finnish prosecutors have alleged it was in those towns and other areas, including Kamatahun and Kortuhun that Mr Massaquoi raped and killed civilians, or ordered his solders to do so. Theyve claimed that he ordered his soldiers to lock up civilians and set fire to buildings they were in for allegedly supporting rebels from the Liberians United for Reconciliation and democracy, who were fighting Taylors government at the time.

Although the Pirkanmaa District Court of Tampere acquitted Mr Massaquoi a little over a year ago on grounds that prosecutors did not prove his crimes beyond a reasonable doubt, prosecutors have lined up witnesses to strengthen their argument in these appeal proceedings that the lower court got it wrong by its decision. The Turku Court of Appeal has returned to Liberia following a short break in Finland, where it heard some witnesses.

Many prosecution witnesses, who said they had travelled from Lofa to Monrovia for the hearings when the Court was first here, accused Mr Massaquoi of killing their relatives.

But Defence lawyers have often questioned the credibility of the witnesses. They too have brought their own witnesses to bolster their argument. Unlike the District Court, the Appeal Court could not travel to Sierra Leone to hear witnesses, many of whom are for the Defence, because the Sierra Leonean government did not approve its presence there. So, the witnesses have travelled to Liberia for the hearings.

Things look to be proceeding according to plan so far for Mr Massaquoi and lawyers, with their witnesses testifying that hes innocent of the charges against him.

Corroborating the testimony of Defence 11, Defence 13, who claimed she bore a child for Mr Missisquoi said he was a personal assistant to Foday Sankoh, the RUF leader, but was never involved with combat activities.

The woman recalled she joined Mr Massaquoi in the Gambia, where the peace talks were taking place and later came with him to Liberia.

He said he was coming to Liberia on a peace talk so I should come, said Defence 13.

The woman said she lived on the VP Road in Paynesville with a friend, while Mr Massaquoi made frequent visits in and out of Liberia for peace purposes. She said he also visited her in Paynesville.

He used to come as often as he wants once he was in Monrovia.

The hearings will continue on Monday, with more witnesses expected to testify.

This story was produced in collaboration with New Narratives as part of its West Africa Justice Reporting Project.

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The police in Kaduna State said its officers killed a terrorist and recovered a motorcycle in Kidandan village in Giwa Local Government.

The commands Public Relations Officer, Mohammed Jalige, said in a statement on Sunday that the terrorist was killed by officers on routine patrol.

 Today May 7, at about 10:30 a.m., operatives attached to 47 Police Mobile Force (PMF) deployed to Kaya on routine patrol along Fatika Road, sighted a gang of bandits riding on motorcycles, dressed in military camouflage.

The gallant operatives swung into action immediately, engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel and given a hot chase. We killed one bandit dressed in military camouflage, while others escaped with varying degrees of bullet wounds; One operational motorcycle was also recovered.

Mr Jalige said police personnel have intensified patrols along the road to forestall future occurrences.

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He also said the Commissioner of Police, Musa Garba, commended the gallantry and professionalism exhibited by the personnel.

He said the CP urged officers of the police to sustain the onslaught against banditry and other forms of criminalities in the state.

Giwa Local Government is one of the most terrorised local council areas in Kaduna. Many residents have lost family members and means of livelihood due to the activities of terrorists in the area.

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News / National

by Staff reporter

Professor Sabelo J. Ndlovu-Gatsheni, who leads studies on Epistemologies of the Global South at the University of Bayreuth in Germany and a visiting fellow at Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study at the University of Johannesburg, says Zimbabwe's political culture is schizophrenic and historically underpinned by violence which dates back to the colonial times, but has been continued by post-colonial leaders.Said Ndlovu-Gatsheni, "Political culture in Zimbabwe is a key problem that has to be changed. It has produced what Professor Ibbo Mandaza termed a 'schizophrenic state'. It does everything against the people in the name of the people. It is very comfortable in rural areas and very uncomfortable in urban areas. Rural Mashonaland areas were conquered through the liberation struggle. Matebeleland and the Midlands were conquered through Gukurahundi. Murambatsvina was an attempt to conquer the urban areas. Vendors are harassed every day. Phobias and political intolerance are the consequence. Citizens are never trusted. Even after 40 years since attainment of political independence, our political culture reflects stunted growth. What is expected is that by now we should have found each other across all divides and we are comfortable to compete for power as a democratic practice without drawing lines of enemies to be crushed. Our media landscape should be wide open by now for our sake. Alas, no, even academic conferences are subjected to suspicions and banned midstream."Ndlovu-Gatsheni was supposed to present a paper at the University of Zimbabwe academic conference which was banned yesterday.University of Bristol's Dr Admore Tshuma, who was also supposed to present a paper on alternative journalism and how to secure scholarships in the UK, said the shock ban reflects a growing authoritarian political culture and repression in Zimbabwe targeted at the civil society, opposition parties, media and academics, among other dissenters, as well as ordinary citizens.
Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, has paid a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

Mr Akpabio was accompanied by the senator representing Kano North, Barau Jibirin, and Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi .

Mr Akpabio is one of the leading aspirants for the senate president in the 10th National Assembly. Mr Jibirin has reportedly settled for Deputy Senate President.

Other Senators-elect who are still in the race are Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia), Osita Izunaso (Imo) Sani Musa (Niger) and Patrick Ndubueze (Imo).

Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, had recently announced that governors of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have endorsed Mr Akpabio as the president of the Senate and Mr Jibril, his deputy.

Mr Umahi, a senator-elect and one of the contenders for the position, had also stepped down and endorsed Mr Akpabio.

Details of their meeting with the Ife monarch were sketchy at the time of filing this report but photographs showed the monarch placing his hands on the head of Mr Akpabio as a way of giving royal blessings.

When asked for confirmation, one of the press officers of the Ooni of Ife, Adetoyese Yusuf, said he was not aware of the meeting.

When our reporter sent the pictures to his WhatsApp for confirmation, Mr Yusuf claimed that the pictures were not taken in the palace.

The media aide to the Ooni of Ife, Moses Olafare, did not respond to calls and messages sent to his phone.

The National Assembly will be inaugurated in June.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised the alarm over an alleged plan to influence the decision of the panel presiding over the presidential election petition tribunal.

The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba at a press conference on Sunday said there are indications that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is attempting to influence the tribunal judgement in favour of its candidate, Bola Tinubu. He did not provide evidence to back the allegation.

Mr Ologunagba claimed that some leaders of the APC are inducing members of the panel sitting on the presidential election tribunal with heavy financial inducement.

More alarming are allegations in the public space of attempts by certain APC leaders to compromise the judiciary with heavy financial inducement and to orchestrate trumped-up allegations of impropriety against judicial officers, he said.

The PDP spokesperson challenged leadership of the ruling APC to speak on the allegations if they are not guilty.

The PDP calls on the APC and its leaders to immediately come clean and publicly address Nigerians and the world on these disturbing allegations and revelations which are already in the public domain.

Intimidation

Mr Ologunagba also said it received credible information that some youth who opposed the planned transitioning of power to Mr Tinubu were being harassed, threatened and attacked.

He noted that the continuous intimidation of youth is evidence that Nigerians do not want a government controlled by the APC.

The PDP also alerts of recent intimidation, harassment, threats and vicious attacks by APC leaders against Nigerian youths and eminent Nigerian personalities for speaking out against APCs planned moves to install a government that does not enjoy the mandate of the majority of Nigerians as expressed at the Polling Units.

The alleged planned onslaught by APC leaders on eminent Nigerians and our democratic institutions, including the Judiciary, stems from APCs apprehensions given the weight of evidence against it as well as the continuing refusal by majority of Nigerians to accept the outcome of the flawed Presidential election.

There are apprehensions in the public space, having regards to the reputation of certain individuals within the highest level of the APC who have demonstrated capacity and proclivity to compromise democratic institutions in our country.

Further to this is the provocative resort by the APC and its leaders to threaten Nigerians with treason for speaking out against the manipulations of our democratic processes by the APC

For emphasis, majority of Nigerians are insisting on the review of the February 25, 2023 Presidential election because it was marred by wide-spread manipulations, open alteration of genuine election results from the Polling Units, allocation of fictitious figures to the APC and brazen violation of the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022 as well as INEC Manual and Guidelines by INEC itself in its declaration of a winner of the election.

Corruption

Mr Ologunagba also accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of being corrupt.

He said the INEC under the leadership of Mahmood Yakubu is corrupt for requesting that the petition filed by presidential candidate of PDP, Atiku Abubakar, be dismissed.

The bizarre response by INEC, which is an umpire that ought to be independent, to the Petition of the PDP and our Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, requesting for the dismissal of our petition, is further evidence of the complicity, corruption and compromise of INEC by the APC.

It is instructive for INEC and the APC to note that the tribunal hearing is part of the electoral process. The APC and INEC are therefore advised to halt further steps to hinder the ability of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal to dispense justice in the matter in accordance with the law.

It is imperative to state that the reckless violation by INEC of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, INEC Guidelines and Manual in the 2023 Presidential election portend grave consequences to our democracy and political stability as a country.

The only way to guarantee peace, unity and stability of our nation is to uphold the Will of the people as expressed at the Polling Units in the February 25, 2023 Presidential election and the PDP is confident in the ability of the Judiciary to discharge its Constitutional duties in this regard independently, he said.

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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has advised travellers using the Lagos-Ibadan expressway to explore alternative ways due to a road traffic crash along the route.

The Corps spokesperson, Bisi Kazeem, disclosed this on Sunday in a statement in Abuja.

Mr Kazeem said the crash involving a tanker occurred in the early hours of Sunday under the Ibafo pedestrian bridge on the outward Lagos section of the expressway.

He said the FRSC officers and some security agencies had been on top of the situation since the occurrence of the crash.

He added that the contents of the fallen vehicle had been successfully trans-loaded into another one while men of the Ogun State Fire Service had proceeded to refill their water tank.

Unfortunately, some inpatient drivers who choose to drive against the flow of traffic from all available exit points have done so, thereby causing traffic jams.

This is however, not only for the outward Lagos section where the RTC occurred alone but also, the inward Lagos section as well.

All road users going into and out of Lagos are therefore advised to explore alternative routes.

Such routes include Ikorodu through Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode, and Epe for Lagos bound vehicles,  he said.

He advised some to ply Abeokuta through Sagamu Interchange as well for their own good.

(NAN)

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Nigerias Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, has said the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport has been reopened for operations hours after an aircraft belonging to Max Air crash-landed on Sunday afternoon.

The minister disclosed this in a tweet posted on his official Twitter handle late Sunday evening.

The Max Air aircraft has been towed away, runway has been swept, inspected & certified. The airport is now reopened for operations. Well done management & staff of Abuja. Thanks to all our customers for the patience & understanding. We regret the inconvenience. pic.twitter.com/BbhTX0m6Pl  Hadi Abubakar Sirika (@hadisirika) May 7, 2023

The Max Air aircraft has been towed away, the runway has been swept, inspected & certified. The airport is now reopened for operations. Well done management & staff of Abuja. Thanks to all our customers for their patience & understanding. We regret the inconvenience the minister wrote.

There was panic at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Sunday after an aircraft belonging to Max Air which took off from Yola crash-landed along the runway of the airport.

The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. and no fatality was recorded. However, the development grounded many flights coming in and out of Abuja for several hours, PREMIUM TIMES gathered.

According to Max Air, the affected aircraft had 143 passengers and an infant onboard.

the aircraft experienced two tire bursts on landing in Abuja, and the emergency response team quickly responded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, a statement by the airline noted.

It said: We are pleased to report that all passengers and crew on board the aircraft are safe and sound.

AON Speaks

In a statement issued by the Vice President of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Allen Onyema, over the issue on Sunday, the body said that tyre burst can happen to any airline in the world.

Mr Onyema urged the media not to sensationalise its reporting whenever such incidents occur.

Tyre bursts occur now and then in the industry and have nothing to do with the airlines safety standards, the statement said.

According to the statement, sensationalistic reporting of such incidents will only create fears in the minds of the flying public, a development he described as counter-productive.

AON states that Max Air is one of the safest airlines in the world and should not be ridiculed because of this incident, the statement said.

All Nigerian airlines are under very strict oversight by the NCAA hence no room for unsafe practices by any Nigerian airline. This Tyre burst incident does not and, will never, detract from Max Airs well-known safety standards.

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Tajudeen Abbas, who was reportedly adopted by the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, for the speakership of the House of Representatives, has defended the plan by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to zone two National Assembly leadership positions to the North-west.

He said the region deserves the speaker and deputy senate president because of the number of lawmakers-elect from there and large number of votes it gave the party during the 25 February presidential election.

Mr Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, stated this on Sunday during an interview on Politics Today a programme on Channels TV.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Tinubu settled for Godswill Apabio (South-south) and Barau Jibrin (North-west) for the senate president and deputy respectively.

Also, Mr Abbas (North-west) and Ben Kalu (South-east) have been topped as speaker and deputy speaker respectively.

The arrangement leaves the North-west with the potential of having two presiding officers, while the North-central zone is left out.

Mr Tinubu and his deputy, Kashim Shettima, are from the South-west and North-east respectively.

Largest number of lawmakers

Mr Abbas said the North-west has almost 26 per cent of the entire 360 members of the House.

He said that the region would have demanded for the senate president but because of the Muslim/Muslim ticket of the ruling party, they conceded the seat to the South.

Both Messrs Tinubu and Shettima are Muslims.

The North-West has seven states and in the last election, we gave the President-elect more than 2.7 million votes. In every presidential election before now, the region that gave the highest votes is almost always the North-West.

Secondly, the North-West has 93 members out of 360 which is almost 26 percent of the entire members of the House of Reps; that is another factor that needs to be considered.

If the president comes from the South-west and the vice president from the North-east, if not because of the peculiarity of the Muslim-Muslim ticket, I am sure based on the contribution of the North-west the senate president would have been what we will ideally ask for, Mr Abbas said.

He also dismissed the report of protest by lawmakers, stating that none of his colleagues has raised the issue of marginalisation on the zoning arrangement.

I can tell you of all the people I met, all the 360 members of the National Assembly, I have not heard anyone who says taking the speakership to the North-west will be an injustice to any zone. Everyone unanimously believes that North-west is the rightful place for the speakership, he added.

The lawmaker also dismissed the suggestion that he would be a rubber stamp speaker, if elected.

What makes them think that I am weak? The fact that I dont come out to insult anybody? The fact that you are a team player? You play along with everyone? You live along with everyone in the House, you dont have enemies, you have only friends?

The fact that you contribute more than any other member in the 9th assembly? You are qualified based on public and private sector experience. Does that make me weak? What people need to understand is to go and look at the pedigree and the antecedent of every member, the issue of being rubber stamp is neither here nor there, Mr Abbas said.

So far, none of the other aspirants contesting against Mr Abbas has stepped down.

Currently, there are ten other aspirants in the race. They are the ncumbent Deputy Speaker Idris Wase (Plateau) Yusuf Gagdi (Plateau) Sada Soli (Katsina), Muktar Betara (Borno) Tunji Olawuyi (Kwara), Abubakar Makki (Jigawa), Aminu Jaji (APC, Zamfara), Ben Kalu (Abia), Ado Doguwa (Kano) and Miriam Onuoha (Imo).

Regional bickering

Since the leak of the zoning arrangement, several groups have been speaking on the arrangement with some groups kicking against it. They demanded the zoning of the speaker to the region.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that a group of ex-lawmakers from the North-central condemned the arrangement, noting that it will lead to the marginalisation of the zone.

However, another group, Defenders of Constitutional Democracy (DCD) lauded the arrangement and called for support for the North-west.

The CDC, in a statement jointly signed by its National convener, Aliyu Abdullahi, and the Director of contact and mobilisations, Chukwuma Okoro on Sunday, also echoed the argument that the North-west gave the president-elect substantial votes.

They called on other aspirants to back the arrangement.

The North West gave the APC 2,652,824 million votes even when both the president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and his vice president-elect, Senator Kashim Shettima were not from the zone. In fact, Tinubu got 30 percent of his total votes from the North West. This shows that the zone is loyal to the party and its candidates.

Therefore, ceding the speakership position to the zone has shown that Tinubu and his team truly believe in a reward system that encourages hard work, capacity and loyalty. Hon. Tajudeen Abass is the most competent lawmaker from the zone having been the highest bill sponsor in the 8th and 9th Assemblies, they said.

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The Presidential Election Petition Court on Monday adjourned Peter Obis petition challenging the victory of Bola Tinubu in the 25 February poll.

A five-member of the court headed by Haruna Tsammani adjourned the suit until Wednesday, 10 May, after it entertained some preliminary issues from Mr Obis legal team led by Livy Uzoukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

Mr Obi, who was the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, came third in the election, but he is praying the court to nullify the polls owing to alleged malpractices by Nigerias electoral commission, INEC.

Mr Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC)s lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, and Lateef Fagbemi, both SANs, informed the court they had filed their responses to the pre-hearing questions earlier raised by the court.

Thereafter, the court, which held its inaugural sitting Monday, adjourned Mr Obis petition until Wednesday, 10 May.

Mr Tinubu, who was declared the winner of the presidential election on the platform of the APC, is fighting to retain his victory amid opposition parties frantic call for an order to overturn his mandate.

One of the top contenders in the legal dispute, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the Presidential Election Petition Court to allow a live broadcast of the courts proceedings.

Prayers

Atiku and the PDP who jointly filed their petition at the court are praying for An order Directing the Courts Registry and the parties on modalities for admission of media practitioners and their equipment into the courtroom.

In the request filed by his lawyer, Chris Uche, a SAN, Atiku argued that the petitions before the court are matters of national concern involving citizens who voted during the last election.

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Atiku further argued that the litigation presents a unique constitutional dimension for the court to determine.

An integral part of the constitutional duty of the Court to hold proceedings in public is a discretion to allow public access to proceedings either physically or by electronic means.

The petitioner further contended that the Court of Appeals adoption of virtual hearing and electronic filing permits the President Election Petition Court to transmit its proceedings live.

Citing the maxim that justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done, Atiku said, Televising court proceedings is not alien to this Honourable Court, and will enhance public confidence.

This newspaper reported a similar call by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, urging the court to grant permission to media houses to transmit the courts proceedings live.

After the court heard three out of the five petitions against Mr Tinubu, it adjourned until Tuesday, 9 May, to hear Mr Atikus petition.

The court earlier held its inaugural sitting during which it assured all litigants that it would do justice to all parties to the case pending before it.

The courts assurances came against the backdrop of Atikus doubts about the impartiality of the court to determine his petition without influence.

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Some former senators, who served between the Second and Fourth Republics, have endorsed former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio, and Jibrin Barau, as the president and deputy president of the 10th Senate.

The former senators, under the aegis of Non-Serving Senators, said their endorsement of the two senators for the positions is to ensure equity and fairness in the dispensation of political powers to all geopolitical zones of the country.

The former senators numbering about 72 made their position known at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

The endorsement came just before the APC adopted the duo.

Mr Akpabio is the senator-elect for Akwa Ibom North-west. He was a member of the upper legislative chamber between 2015 and 2019 during which he was the minority leader.

Mr Jibrin currently represents Kano North and chairs the committee on appropriation.

Endorsement based on extensive consultations

BasheerLado, who addressed journalists on behalf of the former senators, said the decision to support Messrs Akpabio and Barau for the positions followed extensive consultation with concerned authorities.

He said the leadership of the Senate requires the service of experienced lawmakers who have the capacity to unite members of the Senate irrespective of the geopolitical zone and also ensure that good governance is delivered.

We, in the spirit of equity, fairness, political expedience and following extensive consultations with stakeholders, hereby express our total support for the zoning of the position of the President of the 10th Senate, to the South-South geo-political zone of Nigeria.

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We also affirm our unfettered support for the position of the President of the 10th Senate who also doubles as the Chairman of the National Assembly to be conferred on His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, CON. The position of Senate President represents the third position in the hierarchy of our current democratic dispensation.

With this same spirit of fairness, we also affirm our solid support that the position of Deputy President of the 10th Senate is conceded to Distinguished Senator Barau I. Jubrin, CON, representing Kano North Senatorial Zone, Kano State.

It is our conviction that a diverse and united legislative leadership is critical to good governance. At a trying period in our nations political history, the National Assembly requires experienced and level-headed leaders at the helm of its affairs, Mr Lado said.

He appealed to other aspirants contesting against Messrs Akpabio and Jibrin to step down from the race, noting that their withdrawal will contribute to the peaceful and smooth running of the incoming administration.

In view of the above, we wish to respectfully appeal to all other aspirants to these key positions to kindly support our position by withdrawing their respective bids.

We believe that their withdrawal and cooperation will reduce the acrimony that commonly characterises the jostle for power in the National Assembly amongst the geo-political zones. This will go a long way in ensuring a peaceful and smooth take-off of the incoming administration, Mr Lado said.

Apart from Messrs Akpabio and Barau, other aspirants for the senate presidency include Osita Izunaso (Imo West), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) Patrick Ndubueze (Imo North), Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara) and Sani Musa (Niger).

Serving senators and Senators-elect from the South-east on Sunday rejected the zoning of the senate presidency to the South-south as well as the endorsement of Mr Akpabio for the position.

They also accused the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, of attempting to marginalise people of the South-east.

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The Senate Chief Whip, Orji Kalu, has written to members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and 108 Senators-elect about his interest to become the Senate president.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Media Office of the Chief Whip of the Senate on Monday in Abuja.

Mr Kalu, however, refuted the report that South east Senators-elect endorsed him.

According to him, the Senators-elect of the South-east only met to make a demand from the President-elect and the party and yet to endorse anyone.

Mr Kalu, in the letters which he personally signed and addressed to each of the NWC members and Senators-elect, said he is offering himself for the position with sincerity of heart, humility and candour.

He explained that his seeming inactiveness in the contest for the senate president was because of the one-month mourning of his late wife, Ifeoma Kalu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that attached to the letters of intent is Mr Kalus Legislative Agenda, which has six priorities.

They are Economic Growth and Reform; Constitutional and Electoral Reform; National Security; Improved Social Conditions and Welfare; Efficient and Effective National Assembly and Global Influence.

Mr Kalu promised to promote and defend the constitution as well as foster a congenial and cordial relationship between the executive and the judiciary.

It is with a deep sense of joy and humility that I bring you warm greetings and that of Abia North Senatorial zone.

My emergence as the senator to represent Abia North in this critical time in the history of our dear nation comes with huge responsibilities, the top of which is to make quality laws for the good governance of our people.

To be able to achieve these enviable goals, we require good leaders who will pilot the affairs of the 10th Senate.

Leadership of a sophisticated Senate at the 10th Session will need men and women with an abundance of shared vision, consensus building, charisma, credibility and pragmatism in the saddle.

This is why I most humbly write to officially inform you of my interest to be elected the next Senate President, he stated.

I make this offer to serve you and the Nigerian people with sincerity of heart, humility and candour.

The biggest asset I bring to the table is wisdom and experience garnered over the years in the management of human and material resources.

I promise to work for you, promote and defend the constitution and the party, and foster a congenial and cordial relationship between the party, the executive and the judiciary.

One thing is indubitably certain: working together in unity and mutual love and respect, we can take Nigeria to real next level of peace, progress and development, the letter read in part.

(NAN)

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I am calling for a state of emergency and a complete reset of education In Nigeria. This means a holistic reform programme that will position our education sector as the engine for social and economic growth. The Asian Tigers, referring to Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea, amongst others, can attribute their success to the fact that they scaled up investments in education, as well as in research and development, that enhanced human capital development

Education is a critical priority for Nigeria, as it is for any nation serious about growth and development. Unfortunately, in the past ten years, we have not seen any focus on or dramatic improvement in education throughout the country. Our best efforts at addressing education have put us steps behind our peer nations in all key development indicators. We inadvertently signal to the world that we do not care about the future. Education is a fundamental human right that should be available to all citizens, regardless of socio-economic status or background. This is different in Nigeria. The countrys literacy rate, put at 62% by GlobalData, does not make us competitive among nations and it shows the dysfunctional state of our primary schools. At this point, we do not need talk, sound bites, and pretension. We need radical reforms backed by action to change the status quo. The Nigerian government needs to take a holistic approach to education reform that focuses on improving the quality of education, increasing access to quality education, and promoting innovation and technology in education. Acknowledged , education is on the concurrent list and local governments have a pivotal role to play in this. The Federal Government still has a responsibility to set the policy direction for the entire country.

As a first step, it may be necessary to establish a Special Office on Education Reforms at the Presidency, working with other levels of government and stakeholders, to fashion out a 25-year Marshall plan to reposition education and follow up the plan with a measurable implementation strategy. It must establish policies and a regulatory framework to increase literacy rates and encourage gender equality in education. While the Federal Government should strengthen regulatory regimes for standards nationwide, state and local governments should establish their competitiveness standards to be measured by academic performance in public examinations and evidence of high levels of numeracy and literacy skills among children.

The proactive actions of state and local governments are desperately needed, given the cultural dichotomies and multiplicities of geopolitical differences in both access to education and quality of education in Nigeria. There are by far too many differences in standards in the Nigerian system, and state-by-state differences, regional geopolitical differences, and differences between public and private institutions exist. The education challenges in the Muslim North are peculiarly different from those of the South. Insecurity in the North has compounded the problems.

Education statistics in Nigeria are frightening, as the country faces many challenges in providing quality and inclusive education for its large and diverse population. Nigeria has the worlds highest number of out-of-school children, with about 10.5 million of them aged between 5 and 14 years not attending school. Nigeria has a low literacy rate of 65.1%, according to World Bank data, with significant gender and regional disparities. It has a low gross enrolment rate in primary schools of 68.3%, with 22.4 million children in public primary schools and 4.2 million in private primary schools. Nigeria ranks 124th out of 137 countries in terms of the quality of primary education, according to the World Economic Forum. It has a low school completion rate of 63% for primary education, 44% for junior secondary education, and 17% for senior secondary education.

Nigeria allocates only about 5 to 6% of its federal budget to education, which is far below the recommended allocation of 15-20% of the national budget by UNESCO. The expenditure on education as a percentage of GDP is also low at 1.95%.

The education infrastructure in Nigeria is old, decrepit, poor, and sometimes abysmal. Successive governments have failed to build new public schools commensurate to the community need, or where they do, no real investments are made in infrastructure and facilities. The condition of most public schools are terrible, and no one wants to study there. The school buildings and premises are not fit for purpose. There is an extreme level of negligence towards education.

Furthermore, to underscore the crisis in our education sector, only 450,000 to 550,000 applicants who sat for JAMB, out of 1.761 million in 2022, were admitted into universities. These 450,000-550,000 persons are 0.013% of 40 million youths aged between 15 and 24 (2020 data) eligible for university education. This lag in tertiary education opportunities is part of the reasons we are crawling as a nation. The astronomical rise in private universities from three in 1999 to 30 in 2009 and 111 in 2022 is evidence of the gap in university education but not necessarily about quality or affordability.

Apart from the issue of access, Nigerian universities are plagued by the poor quality of instruction and learning, leading to a generation of unemployable Nigerian university graduates, because they need more skills, better cognitive abilities, and further critical thinking capacities. This gap can be traced to the quality of our basic education, which is under the purview of local governments. Research output, which is the main criterion for ranking universities globally, of Nigerian universities and Nigeria academics, is comparatively low behind those of countries like Botswana and South Africa. And knowledge accumulation, which leads to social and human capital formation and economic development, gives developed countries an advantage over developing countries. Our low research output partially accounts for why our growth is stagnated and the rentier economy is thriving.

Conversely, an estimated 5-7% of our seasoned academics leave Nigeria annually to go overseas because of the better research environments there. Several special National Universities Commission (NUC) intervention schemes started earlier are either abandoned or discontinued. Such innovative schemes as Linkages with Experts and Academics in the Diaspora Scheme (LEADS), designed to attract Nigerian academics in the diaspora, the Presidential Scholarship for Innovation and Development (PRESSED) for first-class graduates, and Transnational Education Scheme (TES), to boost foreign investment and partnerships between Nigerian universities and their foreign counterparts, have not made the intended impacts on our tertiary education sector.

The education infrastructure in Nigeria is old, decrepit, poor, and sometimes abysmal. Successive governments have failed to build new public schools commensurate to the community need, or where they do, no real investments are made in infrastructure and facilities. The condition of most public schools are terrible, and no one wants to study there. The school buildings and premises are not fit for purpose. There is an extreme level of negligence towards education. The teachers are neither well-trained nor really motivated. Private schools are personal businesses and are squeezing the living daylight out of most parents, who struggle to pay the cost of private education. The curriculum emphasises cognitive knowledge (memory-oriented learning) aimed at passing examinations, instead of developing skills bases, analytical and independent thinking, needed for mental and economic progress. Theory is emphasised more than practice. Education technology is significantly unavailable in most schools.

The neglect of education by government at all levels is a critical indicator of a failing state. When a state fails or is failing, the effective educational systems are privatised, or the public facilities become increasingly decrepit and neglected. Teachers and others who work in the education sector are ignored or relegated to the background, and reports to the relevant ministries are ignored.

Improving education in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that involves the government, businesses, educators, parents, and the broader community. Government should first devise a means of sustainably funding education and allocate a significant portion of the national budget to the sector. Second, the training and professional development of teachers should be ensured to enable them have the skills and knowledge necessary to teach in 21st-century classrooms.

I must acknowledge the effort of Dr Oby Ezekwesili, as minister of education under the Obasanjo presidency, who embarked on a comprehensive education reform in Nigeria, but this was dumped as soon as the government wound down. At the sub-national level, attempts by Ekiti State under Fayemi, Edo under Oshimole, and Kaduna under El-Rufai, to kick-start the reset of education by improving the quality of teachers, was resisted by organised labour and other entrenched interest. This, unfortunately, is the dilemma.

Recently, the Federal Government has devised various initiatives to deal with the education problem in Nigeria. These include the Universal Basic Education (UBE) programme, Education Tax, Safe Schools Initiative, Teacher Professional Development (TPD) programme, National Education Policy, and the Private Sector Participation Programme. These initiatives, at best, have had minimal positive effects on our education sector so far. Little wonder the education statistics still evoke horror when encountered. No doubt our education sector is broken.

I am calling for a state of emergency and a complete reset of education In Nigeria. This means a holistic reform programme that will position our education sector as the engine for social and economic growth. The Asian Tigers, referring to Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea, amongst others, can attribute their success to the fact that they scaled up investments in education, as well as in research and development, that enhanced human capital development to improve the productivity of the workforce across all sectors in these countries. Nigeria needs to do the same. It behoves the new administration to restructure the entire education system on a priority basis and align it with modern educational techniques.

Improving education in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that involves the government, businesses, educators, parents, and the broader community. Government should first devise a means of sustainably funding education and allocate a significant portion of the national budget to the sector. Second, the training and professional development of teachers should be ensured to enable them have the skills and knowledge necessary to teach in 21st-century classrooms. Third, the expansion of access to education should be prioritised, especially in rural areas. Fourth, science, technology, engineering and mathematics ( STEM) should also be prioritised, following which there should be investment in vocational and technical education to equip students with practical skills relevant to the job market. Fifth, curriculum reforms needs to be championed by reviewing and updating the curriculum to ensure that it is appropriate and responsive to the needs of the country and the global economy. Sixth, digital learning has to be embraced, while the use of technology in education should be promoted. And finally, there has to be continuous monitoring and evaluation in order to assess the quality of education and track progress in achieving academic goals.

The benefits to Nigeria of a robust education sector that provides good access, high quality, and skill and practice-driven education are evident. A good education sector can contribute to economic growth by producing a skilled workforce better equipped to meet the job markets needs, attract foreign investment, and boost economic productivity. Quality education is a powerful tool for poverty reduction, promoting better health outcomes, and social cohesion, through the fostering of a sense of national identity and shared values. Education can also enable understanding and tolerance among different ethnic and religious groups, thereby reducing ethnic and religious tension and insecurity. It fosters innovation and entrepreneurship by providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to start businesses and develop new technologies, whilst enhancing Nigerias global competitiveness by producing a skilled workforce that can compete in the global marketplace. We, therefore, implore the new administration not to play Russian Roulette with our education sector. It must remember that a robust education system catalyses sustainable, social and economic development.

Dakuku Peterside is a policy and leadership expert.

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The medina is a mazelike medieval quarters built with clay walls stretching for more than 16 kilometres dating to the Berber empire. It is a densely populated and fortified city within Marrakech, with alley ways and thriving souks (markets).

Twenty-five members of the Rotary Club of Lagos, District 9110, embarked on a Friendship Exchange visit to the Rotary Club of Marrakech-Menara in Morocco, from 23-29 April. The trip had all the trappings of fun, excitement, adventure, cultural exchange, hospitality and friendship. In the past, our members had also visited Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya, Togo, Senegal and Benin Republic for the same reason.

On our delegation were two visiting Rotarians: Francis Nwankwo, of the Rotary Club of Festac Central, and Eniola Elegushi, a member of the Rotary Club of Admiralty, whose charter was recently sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lagos. Eniola is the daughter of Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye, a former commissioner of Education in Lagos State and member of the Rotary Club of Lagos.

Saidat chaired the Friendship Exchange Committee that was responsible for planning the trip: flight tickets, accommodation and tours. She was actively supported by Rotarians Abayomi Adeyeri and Adenike Iyelolu. By all accounts, the committees performance was impressive. There were many Instagram moments depicted by photographs shared instantly to tell the story. To sum it up, the Marrakech trip created an unforgettable experience for the delegates.

The president of our club, Joe Akhigbe, and the immediate past president, Babawale Agbeyangi, got to Marrakech in two separate flights before the delegates. Past assistant governor, Gbolahan Ayodele was appointed by the president as leader of the delegation, based on his experience on similar visits in the past and for being the most senior past president.

We flew out of Lagos at 5.10 a.m. won the Royal Air Maroc, the national carrier of Morocco, and touched down in Casablanca after four hours and 30 minutes. The connecting flight to Marrakech was ready when we landed and the flight lasted about 30 minutes.

You need a paper visa or e-visa, which is $100, before you can travel to Morocco. Some of our delegates were delayed by immigration officials on account of visa verification but they were cleared after a few minutes.

Marrakech is an exotic destination and tourists flock to the ancient city in much the same way bees are attracted to honey. With several hotel options to choose from for a population of roughly 1.5 million people, according to our guide, Azeez, Marrakech is known as the Red City because its buildings are covered in clay.

But the weather was hot, very hot when we visited, with the temperature as high as 42 degrees Celsius. From any corner of the city, the Moorish minaret of the 12th century Koutoubia mosque is clearly visible and unmistakable. This is why no building in the city has more than five floors.

Members of the Rotary Club of Marrakech-Menara waited at the airport to welcome us and we posed for photographs with the Rotary wheel. A bus ride took us to our hotel. We stayed at Riu Tikida Palmeraie  an upscale and all-inclusive four-star hotel on several acres of landscaped grounds dotted with palm trees that are surrounded by lush gardens.

Riu Tikda is an enchanting resort offering three restaurants, three bars, a fitness centre and spa plus indoor and outdoor pools; it became our home for the next six days  a shouting distance from the medina. You can get there after driving for 30 minutes.

The outdoor swimming pool was permanently brimming with visitors from around the world, sun tanning and generally enjoying themselves. A major attraction in Marrakech is the Jardin Majorelle Garden, a one-hectare botanical garden, designed by French artist, Jean Majorelle, in the 1920s, when Morocco was a protectorate of France.

The medina is a mazelike medieval quarters built with clay walls stretching for more than 16 kilometres dating to the Berber empire. It is a densely populated and fortified city within Marrakech, with alley ways and thriving souks (markets).

All the markets in Marrakech are known for their vibrancy and brisk sales. In the heart of medina, you will find the famous Djemaa el-Fna market square, where you can shop for brass wares, ceramics, handicrafts, traditional textiles, pottery, jewelry, metal lanterns and herbal remedies.

Marrakech is a former imperial city in western Morocco, famous for its mosques, palaces and gardens. Tourism is big business in Marrakech, with an incredible value chain, and the cultural influences from Europe on the Berber and Arabian communities are evident.

If you want snake charmers or fortune tellers, you will find them. But dont miss out on the camel ride, hot-air ballooning and riding in carriages propelled by horses.

Casablanca, on the other hand, is a port city and commercial hub of the country, fronting the Atlantic Ocean. You can describe Casablanca as their Lagos while Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is their Abuja. Other notable cities are Agadir, Fes and Tangiers.

A train ride from Casablanca to Marrakech will last for two hours but a road trip will take up to three hours. Part of our itinerary was a road trip in a coach to Casablanca on the second day. It was a smooth ride all the way and I struggled in vain searching for potholes.

I was captivated by the picturesque landscapes flanking the highway and breathtaking view of large swathes of plains. On our way back, you could see the golden colour of the sun cast a wide blanket on the sky  a mixture of grey and royal blue  but it gradually disappeared behind the clouds as it began to set.

On the third day, we joined members of the Rotary Club of Marrakech-Menara in District 9010 for their meeting at La Mamounia  a luxurious, vibrant, mythical, authentic hotel and celebrity hangout with enchanting gardens, which is regarded as one of the best hotels in the world.

Our friendship partner-club was chartered on 14 March, 1998 and it has 26 members, comprising Muslims, Christians and Jews. Morocco is grouped alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Mauritania to form District 9010. There are over 530 Rotary districts in the world.

At the end of our meeting, a partnership and cooperation agreement for mutual benefits was signed. Thereafter, we drove to the home of past president Jalal Zemmama, where he hosted us to a lavish garden reception that will not be forgotten in a hurry.

The next day, it was a long drive for about an hour, with members of our host club, to Douar Ougog, one of the rural communities, to meet with children in a preparatory school (for five to six years olds) built by the club. The same road leads to Ouarzazate, another suburb. In the last three years, our host club completed five schools and they are currently building the sixth one.

Initially, the kids were shy, as we had invaded their privacy, but they loosened up and chatted with their visitors. When it was time to go, they stood up and sang the Moroccan national anthem with pride.

Jalal told me he would be attending the next Rotary International Convention from 27  31 May in Melbourne, Australia. It is the greatest gathering of Rotarians in the world in a single venue.

In his appreciation note, Khalid Bounouis, president of the host club, said they were honoured to host us and share precious moments during our stay. The visit was one of our goals this year to strengthen the relationship of our club with other clubs in the continent, he explained.

We made new friends and it was an opportunity to learn new things about the people and their culture. Dr Amre Mouabad is a medical doctor who told me French was the language of instruction in the medical school he attended; Jalal Haddouchi is their president-elect, while Ilham El Yacoubi runs a kindergarten.

Throughout our stay, electricity supply was constant; it means the Moroccans do not have any need for petrol or diesel powered generators. Fatima Zaha El-Allaoui is a Moroccan and member of our Rotary Club in Lagos but she is married to a Tunisian and they live and work in Nigeria.

Fatima also served on the Friendship Exchange Committee, making sure we had a wholesome experience in Marrakech. She travelled ahead of us to prepare the groundwork with members of the Rotary Club of Marrakech-Menara. She was also helpful as an interpreter.

When I asked her about the electricity situation in Morocco, she told me light is very steady. I have never experienced blackout since I was born, Fatima, who is over 40 years old, said confidently. Water supply is also regular. We were shocked to learn that petrol cost N1,225 per litre. When compared to the pump price in Nigeria, this is quite expensive.

But context, in terms of GDP per capita of both countries, is important. Available 2021 data indicates that Nigeria was $2,065.75, while Morocco was $3,795.38. But this does not mean Morocco is not struggling with its economy; all that glitters is not gold.

However, the three leading exports of Morocco are agricultural produces (citrus fruits and market vegetables), semi processed goods and consumer goods (including textiles) and phosphates and phosphates products. One US dollar is exchanged for MAD 9.8 (Moroccan Dirham).

Morocco has a population of about 40 million people, but Casablanca with a population of about seven million people is the countrys largest city. The Atlas Mountains  a series of mountain ranges  is dotted with Berber villages and covers a large area of Morocco. It stretches across northwestern Africa, spans through Algeria and Tunisia, and separates the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline from the Sahara Desert.

Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary national legislative system (a bicameral parliament) under which ultimate authority rests with King Mohammed VI, who presides over the Council of Ministers. The Monarch is the head of state and he appoints the prime minister, who serves as head of government.

Riu Tikida Palmeraie hotel workers were very polite, which should be the standard protocol for a tourist city. The rooms are spacious, designed in rectangular shapes with mainly twin beds for $180 per night, but the housekeepers struggle to speak English.

In the absence of interpreters, I used sign language to communicate with them as I could neither speak Arabic nor French.

Although alcohol sales are restricted, as you would expect in a Muslim country, yet you can drink in licensed bars, restaurants and tourist areas. However, if you want a Moroccan wife, you must be a Muslim.

Our return flight from Marrakech to Casablanca was cancelled for reasons the airline refused to disclose, even after we asked their representatives. Our president-elect, Abiodun Role and his wife who left the day before, had a similar experience.

A coach was provided, which left Marrakech airport at 6.00 p.m. We got to Casablanca airport at 8.45 pm under a flood of street lights and arrived in Lagos in the wee hours of the following day.

The Rotary Friendship Exchange is an international exchange programme for Rotarians and friends that allow participants to take turns in hosting one another in their homes and clubs. Rotary International says friendship exchanges should be organised around at least one of three themes: culture, service and vocation.

Participants may travel as individuals, couples, families or groups and may be Rotarians or not. Some of the benefits of friendship exchanges include the opportunity to broaden international understanding, explore profession or job in a different context, build enduring friendships, establish a foundation for peace and service, gain opportunities for active project involvement and support; learn about a regions people, food, languages, customs and history, and find partners for grants.

Ehi Braimah is a public relations strategist and publisher/editor-in-chief of Naija Times.

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Lisa Matar will lead BioScript Solutions into the next stage of growth.

MONCTON, NB, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - BioScript Solutions is excited to announce the appointment of Lisa Matar as Chief Executive Officer.

Lisa Matar, newly appointed CEO of BioScript Solutions. (CNW Group/BioScript Solutions)

"We're thrilled to [welcome] Lisa Matar as the first Chief Executive Officer at BioScript Solutions," said David Ford, co-founder of BioScript Solutions. "Lisa brings over 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, holding many unique roles and gaining invaluable expertise along her journey. Most importantly, Lisa is an incredibly engaging and charismatic leader whose passion for patients and building incredible teams is palpable and contagious."

Lisa will lead BioScript's strategic and operational direction; further supporting the company in their continued mission to simplify access to specialty care for Canadians.

Andrew Steeves, co-founder of BioScript solutions adds, "Through Lisa's illustrious career, she has demonstrated her ability to leverage innovation and transform businesses while building very successful teams through several challenging transformational mandates, across multiple continents. This experience will be invaluable to BioScript into the future as we continue to optimize the specialty patient experience in Canada."

Excitement for this partnership is echoed by Lisa, who says, "BioScript Solutions is a truly unique company with an exciting future, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the company's growth journey. It is a privilege and an honour to work with such a dynamic and passionate team as we continue to deliver best-in-class service solutions for specialty care. I look forward to playing a part in the BioScript Solutions story."

Lisa joins BioScript from Eli Lilly and Co. where she held various senior roles in marketing, sales and general management. Her extensive experience covers a variety of therapeutic areas such oncology, diabetes, cardiology and auto immune in both Europe and Canada.

Story continues

She served as President and General Manager of Eli Lilly Canada from 2013 to 2020, leading major business transformations in support of the launch of the company's specialty portfolio. During her tenure in Canada, Lisa has been named to the Board of Directors of Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC).

Lisa has most recently worked with early and growth-stage Biotech startups in the oncology field, focusing on overall strategy and commercialization to maximize speed to market. Lisa currently serves on the Board of Directors of Delphi DiagnosticsTM, Inc. and Starpax Biopharma.

About BioScript Solutions

Since 2001, BioScript Solutions has supported patients with chronic illnesses and rare diseases by providing access to complex drug therapies and delivering full-service specialty care. We serve thousands of Canadians coast to coast every year  from our patient support programs, wholesale pharmaceutical distribution and third-party logistics to our clinics and pharmacies. Even as we grow, we remain local at heart  committed to our communities and to putting patients first in everything we do. Please visit bioscript.ca to learn more about our specialty services.

The BioScript Solutions logo. (CNW Group/BioScript Solutions)

SOURCE BioScript Solutions

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/08/c0838.html
Thankfully the Nigerian authorities got it right this time, or somewhat, with the evacuation of over 500 Nigerians out of the ongoing mess in Sudan, and talks are out there that other batches of evacuees would soon be home-bound. Air Peace, Azman, and Max Air, in a rare act of private sector air carrier leadership of blood over profit, self-coordinated and made the evacuation possible.

Not your typical milquetoast this time, Geoffrey Jideofor Kwusike Onyeama, the minister of Foreign Affairs, impressively worked the phones and gave diplomacy a buoy, enabling the Saudis, Egyptians and Addis Ababa to allow traumatised and fleeing Nigerians get an initial resting place before they could be sent home.

Delightfully too, Onyeamas gesture added a soothing vanish on the garish dents left on the nations image from the now famous showboating of Abike Kafayat Dabiri-Erewa, who heads President Muhammed Buharis Diaspora Commission, and the flabby response of the Humanitarian ministry.

Yet, the tragedy unfolding in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, where, according to international press accounts, already over 500 have been killed and no fewer than 100,000 now face a humanitarian crisis, has wider ramifications beyond the evacuation of Nigerians. With about seven international borders and a river that gives life to 10 countries, a full-scale war in Sudan  and we are just an inch to that  could have immediate devastating consequences in north, central and east Africa.

It is tempting to locate the roots of the current crisis in Sudan to the October 2021 coup that set up the tense relation between the Sudanese Armed Forces led by Abdelfattah Al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary force led by Mohamed Hemedti Haman Dagalo, over how to integrate the RSF into the regular army ranks.

Sudans crisis, however, has complex ethnic and Islamic roots dating to the Mahdist Movement of the 19th century, which challenged and ultimately prevailed over Egyptian and then British colonialism but never could resolve the stack incongruities of race and class domination. Subsequently, post-colonial Sudan deployed religion as a screen, even as the boiler plates of inequality, poverty and discrimination kept the country constantly volatile and on the edge.

It was this capacious social gorge that ultimately re-ignited the Burhan-Hemedti partnership, offering Hemedti reasons to distance himself from Al-Burhan, who he now frequently describes as fascist and increasingly links to former President Al-Bashir-era Islamists.

The larger issue, however, is that the potential civil war looming, sure to ripple through Sudans restive peripheries  embroiling countless armed groups and communal militias  should alarm the Nigerian authorities because of the conceivable destabilisation this could accelerate from the insurgency in our North-Eastern corridor and the escalation of tension in the upper cone of our North-Western states, enabled by a free flow of small arms, as was the case after the fall of Libya.

Gloomily, Sudan, now the third-largest gold producer in Africa, with as much as 80 per cent of the production smuggled to Russia, has just as bad a resource curse as Libya, adequate to retain the war for years, if not decades. To save the situation, therefore, here are urgent points to address in the search for a long-term solution.

PREMIUM TIMES believes the main concern would be to address the arrogant neglect to share power, on equal terms, between Sudans powerful northern riverine Arab tribes, which, as the military and security aristocracy, have controlled the country and captured power since independence, with the Darfur Arabs, who are regarded as primitive, uneducated and black. This must commence in earnest.

Then human rights accountability calls, particularly the trial of architects of genocide in Darfur, including handing over Al-Bashir and his henchmen to the International Criminal Court, which can no longer be delayed.

Missioners for peace in Sudan must prioritise land reform between the Arab and non-Arab Muslim tribes of Darfur, particularly the Fur, the Zaghawa, and the Masalit, which was central to the revolt against Al-Bashir, whose response was unleashing the notorious Janjaweed Arab militia bandits on the non-Arab civilian population, under military direction.

The worst idea in statecraft for such a fractured polity is the pointlessness of trying to embed a religious ethos within a regular army, as the ongoing war of words between the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) and the RSF have alleged, of the armys plan to restore leading Islamists to power.

PREMIUM TIMES is calling on Nigeria, as a leading voice in Africa, to urgently prepare to participate fully in the processes that will ensure the restoration of peace in Sudan. This should build on the old Abuja talks on Sudan.

The immediate priority, therefore, must be achieving a sustainable humanitarian ceasefire, while all national, regional, and international actors remain undaunted in rejecting the war.

The UN, Africa Union (AU) and the regional bloc in the Horn of Africa, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), should note that the worsening situation in Sudan has implications for regional security and the security of countries contiguous to Nigeria.

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The upcoming CAMON 20 Series from innovative technology brand TECNO recently picked up the prestigious MUSE Design Awards 2023 as a gold winner in the Product Design of Telecommunications category.

The upcoming CAMON 20 Series from innovative technology brand TECNO recently picked up the prestigious MUSE Design Awards 2023 as a gold winner in the Product Design of Telecommunications category.

TECNOs CAMON 20 Series, known for its groundbreaking stylish design, was again unanimously praised by the judges of MUSE Design Awards 2023 thanks to its industry-first CAMON PUZZLE deconstructionist design. This win further illustrates TECNOs strength in product design as the company gains recognition from well-established international authorities. The award-winning device is set for launch on 9 May this year.

Held by the International Awards Association (IAA), the MUSE Design Awards is one of the most influential international awards in global design, known for its rigorous judging system and high-quality criteria. The awards focus on exploring artistic beauty and design innovation, aiming to foster design muses and promote global innovation and design excellence. This years MUSE Design Awards received over 6,300 entries from countries worldwide and were judged by a jury panel composed of 51 expert judges from creative and design-led disciplines across the globe.

The industries have gone through significant changes throughout the years, yet to have these entrants showcase their ability to adapt and overcome is certainly surprising and encouraging to our team in IAA, said IAA spokesman Thomas Brandt, We celebrate good design in all its forms, and TECNO CAMON 20 Series caught our eye with its outstanding attention to detail, superb craftsmanship, and innovative design qualities, making it a worthy winner of our Gold Award.

Inspired by the deconstructivist genre of postmodern architecture, TECNO fuses the aesthetic concepts of international fashion brands and pioneering designers to create the unique CAMON PUZZLE design. TECNO tries for the first time to engrave 20 irregular ribs in a three-dimensional luxury lychee-pattern back cover material of Magic Skin. At the same time, sapphire-grade nanocrystalline ceramic is integrated into constructing the devices back cover. The combination of advanced materials and bold design philosophy challenges traditional smartphone design language and allows CAMON 20 users to make a stylish statement.

Of course, the focus is not only on aesthetics but on the user experience, too. The newest material of Magic Skin applied to CAMON 20 Series brings out the best deconstructionist design, creating incredible comfort with a natural tactile texture that doesnt attract fingerprints. With a unique appearance and high-quality materials, CAMON 20 series brings industry design standards into a new era by winning high praise from the MUSE jury and highlighting TECNOs position as a smartphone-design pioneer.

About TECNO

TECNO is an innovative technology brand with operations in over 70 countries and regions across five continents. Since its launch, TECNO has been revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging global markets, relentlessly pushing for the perfect integration of contemporary, aesthetic design with the latest technologies. Today, TECNO has developed into a recognised leader in its target markets, delivering ultramodern innovation through a wide range of smartphones, smart wearables, laptops and tablets, HiOS operating systems, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of Stop at Nothing, TECNO is committed to unlocking the best and newest technologies for forward-looking individuals. By creating stylish, intelligent products, TECNO inspires consumers worldwide to never stop pursuing their best selves and their best futures. For more information, please visit TECNOs official site: www.tecno-mobile.com

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The aphorism that there is no hiding place for the golden fish was practically manifested last week when the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Muhammad Mamman Nami deservedly bagged double awards from reputable organisations. The nations number one tax collector at separate events was named winner of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Merit Award and the winner of the BusinessDay Excellence in Public Service Award.

Since his assumption of office as the Executive Chairman of the FIRS in 2019, Mr Muhammad Nami has been going about his duty with uncommon zest, focus and vigour. Within the relatively little years of his stewardship as the helmsman of the nations biggest tax agency, he has raised the bar of leadership at FIRS by posting many remarkable strides in office.

The FIRS Executive Chairmans latest meritorious garland was bestowed on him at the 2023 annual awards of ICAN which took place at the Monarch Event Centre, Lagos, on Saturday 6 May, 2023. Muhammad Nami who was honoured in the non-members category at the event, was described by the President of ICAN, Mr Tijani Musa Isa, as a self-effacing and humble achiever who has steered the FIRS to excel in the national and international tax circles despite global economic downturns.

While eulogising the nations number one tax chief for achieving several milestones in revenue collection, the ICAN President said the Merit Award is in recognition of Muhammad Namis positive impact in the society stressing that he has made significant contributions to the institute and to Nigeria. The governing board deemed it fit to acknowledge the role you (Nami) have played and your outstanding achievements, Isa emphasised.

Muhammad Namis virtues as a leader imbued with exemplary and rare professional moral fibre were further captured in the citation read at the ICAN event, in which he was aptly described as a go-getter and an ingenious leader.

The impactful reforms which he is implementing at FIRS did not escape the attention of the Institute as they were acknowledged as eloquent attestations to his dexterity, visionary leadership and patriotism. The citation took cognitive note of the fact that under his visionary leadership, the FIRS in 2022 achieved an unprecedented revenue collection of N10.1 trillion, the highest tax collection ever made in the annals of the country.

At a similar event two days earlier in the same week, the FIRS boss was named the winner of the BusinessDay Excellence in Public Service Award 2022. The event took place on Thursday 4 May, 2023 at the BusinessDay States Competitiveness and Good Governance Awards.

BusinessDay Newspaper explained that it named him the winner of the award for his visionary and leadership qualities [that] have brought tremendous change to the FIRS.

It underscored Muhammad Namis landmark achievements by transforming the tax administration and compliance landscape in Nigeria. Prominent on the checklist of his strides in the transformative aspect is the introduction of the revolutionary TaxPro Max which is FIRS home-grown digital platform for tax administration. The hugely successful digital platform allows taxpayers to register, file returns and pay their taxes easily from any location other than their respective tax offices. TaxPro Max has proved an effective antidote to the delays and frustrations usually associated with the labyrinthine wholly manual process of the past that often lent itself to leakages, delays and frustrations.

BusinessDay commended Muhammad Nami for repositioning the operations and staff of the FIRS, as well as introducing technological tools to institute more transparency, accountability, and effectiveness, which in turn has translated into increased capacity to deliver on the mandate with outstanding results.

The Executive Chairmans response after receiving the ICAN Merit Award captured his professional trajectory from a humble beginning through the rungs to the higher rungs of professional excellence. He summed his professional odyssey this way: Since I left the university, over 32 years ago, I have had the privilege and luck to be directly and indirectly associated with ICAN members: from the PKF, to Manam Professional Services, and now I am working directly with well over 3,000 members of this Institute as the Executive Chairman of the FIRS.

He went on to dedicate the award to his alma maters (from primary to tertiary levels), his former colleagues at the Presidential Committee on Audit of Stolen Recovered Stolen Assets, members of the Tax Advisory Committee of the FIRS, all taxpayers, FIRS board members, management and staff of the FIRS plus his family members.

A rundown of Muhammad Namis rich profile reveals a man who is properly trained and honed in the fields of tax, accounting and management. He is a thoroughbred professional with highly rated qualifications and practicing licenses from relevant professional bodies.

An accountant, management professional, tax administrator and public officer, Muhammad Nami has more than three decades of practical working experience in auditing, tax management and advisory as well as management services to clients in the banking, manufacturing services and public sectors in addition to non- profit organisations.

He is an expert in rendering advisory support services to investors in respect of new businesses. He has also continuously rendered outsourced services to clients in both trading, service and manufacturing sectors of the nations economy.

A fellow of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria and Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, the FIRS boss is also an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) and Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) as well as a graduate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).

Like the great oak that grew from little acorns, Muhammad Nami started his career with PKF in 1993 and rose to the position of a senior consultant in charge of tax management and advisory services. From October, 2018 to December, 2019, he also served as the Managing Consultant of Manam Professional Services, a Chartered Tax Practitioners and Advisers firm that had offices in Kaduna, Abuja and Minna.

He is the current President of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA). He is the Chairman of the Joint Tax Board (JTB), a statutory position he holds as the Executive Chairman of the FIRS. He is the immediate past Chairman of the African Tax Administrators Forum (ATAF). These roles have invariably conferred on him the need to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria, Africa and the commonwealth nations.

As a proactive and innovative leader, he has since proved bookmakers right that he is more than equal to the task. The reforms he is implementing at FIRS attest to his dexterity, visionary leadership and patriotism. Under his visionary leadership, the FIRS in 2022 achieved an unprecedented revenue collection of N10.1 trillion, which is the highest tax collection ever made in the history of the country.

Recently, he earned accolades for audacious deployment of technology as well as the introduction of unprecedented reforms in Nigerias tax administration including data mining and strategic intelligence gathering for improved revenue generation.

His sterling leadership and impressive scorecard have earned him and the FIRS several other awards. For instance, in October 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on him the Excellence in Public Service Award for Fiscal reforms at the FIRS while he also received the Leadership Newspaper Public Servant of the Year Award for 2022.

Muhammad Namis exemplary leadership style has greatly helped to galvanise and motivate the management and entire workforce of the FIRS to be disciplined and amenable to basic etiquette of the Service.

The fact that he is a man driven by ideas and positive results is attested to by the regular on-the-job training and brainstorming sessions he organises at the FIRS. He is a modern era leader that is never weary of updating and introducing result-yielding innovative ideas and techniques.

Among other contributory factors to the astounding success of Muhammad Nami at the FIRS are his humble and honest attributes. Beneath the veneer of his gentle mien is the steely quality of a leader who does not compromise integrity and value in the discharge of duty. Certainly, the FIRS under the clear-headed, confident and chivalrous leadership of Muhammad Nami is primed for more plumage of honours and awards in future.

 Nkem Precious is an Abuja based attorney.

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Chairperson of the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Lauretta Onochie, has been insisting on being the accounting officer of the commission against the provision of the Act establishing the commission, PREMIUM TIMES has gathered.

The managing director is the chief executive and accounting officer of the commission, according to Part IV (b) of the NDDC Act 2000, and is vested with the responsibility for the day-to-day administration of the commission.

The law gives the board a supervisory role over NDDC management.

Mrs Onochies stance has thrown the agency into a leadership crisis that may cripple its operations, at least four sources familiar with the development have told this newspaper.

The chairperson and the Managing Director of NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, clashed in January immediately after the inauguration of the board over who is the chief executive officer between them, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

Immediately after the inauguration of the NDDC board, she (Onochie) travelled the following day to Port Harcourt. The MD of NDDC was surprised to see her on the same flight to Port Harcourt.

When they got to Port Harcourt, the MD realised she was also heading to the NDDC headquarters to take over the running of the commission as if she was the CEO, a source in the NDDC said.

There was some kind of drama because she was struggling with the MD as to who would take over the commission, when it is the MD who is the CEO that should take over the commission.

When the MD advised her that she should allow management to take over and then an agenda could be set for a proper board meeting, she refused to listen.

The source said Mrs Onochie, without Mr Ogbukus knowledge, immediately invited all the board members via text messages for a meeting in Port Harcourt.

It was at that meeting that she announced she was going to be a signatory to the NDDC account, whereas the accounting officer recognised by the government is the MD.

Even when she was advised against it by the (NDDC) director of Legal, she went ahead and wrote to the Accountant General (of the Federation), filled the forms, and tried to make herself a signatory to the account. She was turned down, which was an embarrassment. No part-time chairman had ever made that kind of move, the source added.

Another source who corroborated this said Mrs Onochie also wrote to Nigerias presidency requesting an amendment to the NDDC Act to allow her to take absolute control of the agency so that she could reform it.

When she didnt get a response, she wrote another mail to the presidency, this time she requested that the commission should be removed from the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, and taken back to the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, she said.

The source said Mrs Onochie recently bypassed the managing director of NDDC and made direct approvals to the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, to make some payment as if she was the NDDC accounting officer.

Of course, the EDFA (Executive Director, Finance and Administration) refused to honour those directives, she said.

Within these few months, she has summoned board meetings up to 12 times through text messages, whereas the board meeting should be held once every quarter, according to a government circular. Some of the meetings could not hold because some of the board members shunned them.

The source said Mrs Onochie and Mr Ogbuku also clashed over the chairpersons attempt to increase the monthly imprest for the board.

She made an attempt to review the monthly imprest to be paid to the part-time board, including herself, by over 400 per cent. And this would have taken the total amount to over N1billion which is almost equivalent to the salary that is paid to all the staff. The MD said no, that he would only continue with what he inherited, she said.

The board is now divided, with some members backing the chairperson, while others are against her, this newspaper learnt.

Mrs Onochie did not respond to calls and a text message from PREMIUM TIMES.

Our reporter got in touch with an NDDC official who contacted the chairperson, on Friday, on behalf of PREMIUM TIMES, but she said she was not open to the media at the moment.

The managing director, Mr Ogbuku, did not respond to calls and a text message.

The commissions Director of Corporate Communication, Ibitoye Abosede, told PREMIUM TIMES, Sunday, he was outside the country at the moment and would, therefore, not respond to questions until he is back in Nigeria.

Controversy over railway project proposal

Mrs Onochies recent attack on the Niger Deltas railway project proposal is said to be a fallout of the crisis between her and the managing director, Mr Ogbuku.

Mr Ogbuku, last month, signed a $15 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Atlantic Global Resources Inc., a US-based company, to build a railway network to connect the nine states in Nigerias Niger Delta.

The agreement signing was done in Lagos, South-west Nigeria, at a one-day Public Private Partnership (PPP) Submit organised by the NDDC.

The project, when it is implemented, would ease the infrastructure deficit in the oil-rich Niger Delta, Mr Ogbuku said.

The NDDC chairperson, Mrs Onochie, in her reaction to it, said the MOU was illegal, null and void.

She claimed the agreement was done without the knowledge of the board.

A source in the NDDC, however, told PREMIUM TIMES, last week, that Mrs Onochie was informed as well as invited to the summit but she declined the invitation and dismissed the event as a jamboree.

Mrs Onochie said the Act establishing the NDDC empowers the chairperson of the board to sign MOUs on behalf of the agency.

But the NDDC management, in its response to her, said the MOU was a preliminary process and not a contract award.

Apparently referring to the chairperson, the commissions Director of Corporate Communication, Mr Abosede said some persons may have misconstrued the MOU to mean Engineering, Procurement, or Construction contract.

What we signed on 25 April is simply the opening phase that will determine how far we will go, but definitely showcases how interested the international partners are in tapping into the Niger Delta region, Mr Abosede said, adding that the model is to provide alternative sources of funding for key projects and programmes of the commission.

Former MD speaks

A former managing director of NDDC, who did not want his name mentioned in the report because of the sensitive nature of the issue, said the chairperson cannot be a signatory to the commissions bank account.

He said the clash between Mrs Onochie and Mr Ogbuku has much to do with a lack of relationship and understanding.

Because the first chairman of the commission, Onyema Ugochukwu, exercised so much power during his time and people didnt know the power he had didnt come from the NDDC Act, it came from the relationship he had with the MD, he said, implying that the chairperson and the managing director need to understand each persons role and also build a mutual and respectable relationship.

He also spoke about board meetings.

The chairman calls board meetings, but he has to do so through the MD. The board meeting should be called at least once every quarter, but an emergency meeting can be summoned anytime. If the board meeting is reduced to a monthly thing it becomes a joke. The board works mostly through committees, it is not everything that is taken to board meetings, he said.

Cash-starved

For over three years, the NDDC, an agency notorious for corruption scandals, was run by interim management committees or sole administrators until the current board was inaugurated in January, which gave some hope that the interventionist agency could be back on track  to speed up human and infrastructure development in the troubled Niger Delta region.

Some people who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES, over the weekend, said the managing director, Mr Ogbuku, started well by consulting with the people in the region to get their concerns and input on the affairs of the commission and also for suspending the payment on controversial desilting projects regarded as conduits for stealing the agencys funds.

The NDDC management said they would further evaluate the desilting jobs the contractor claimed to have done before any further payments on the projects, this newspaper learnt.

Kennedy West, the president of Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta, said it is right for the NDDC management to keep engaging the people, but that the commission was in dire need of funds to execute its projects and programmes.

How am I going to assess them (their performance) when theres no fund? The 2023 budget is not there, 2021, and 2022 budget is not there. You have about N500 billion that the EFCC has collected on behalf of the commission, this money and the budgeted funds should be released to the NDDC, he said.

Mr West said the internal wrangling in the NDDC doesnt sound healthy, and that his organisation was worried about it.

An influential group in the Niger Delta, the Ijaw Youth Council, meanwhile, has backed the proposal by the NDDC for a railway line in the Niger Delta region.

The groups president, Peter Igbifa, who described the project idea as an answered prayer, said it would boost commerce in the region.

The proposal is in tandem with the core mandate of the NDDC. We need to unite to ensure that it is realised. We are in support of the project. We shall not allow anybody to scuttle its implementation.

We see it as an answer to our prayer for a regional project that will promote development and regional integration, Mr Igbifa said.

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The police in Enugu State, south-east Nigeria, said they have arrested three people for allegedly vandalising a transformer belonging to a power distribution company, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) in the state.

The police spokesperson in the state, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

Mr Ndukwe, a deputy superintendent of police, said the three suspects were arrested by operatives serving at Abakpa Police Divisional Headquarters at about 4 a.m. on 30 April with the assistance of the Neighbourhood Watch Group in the area.

The police spokesperson said the suspects were arrested while they were vandalising the transformer at Church Road Housing Estate, Abakpa-Nike in Enugu East Local Government Area of the state.

He gave the names of the suspects as Chidera Eze, 25, Ifesi Agbo, 23, and Arinze Akoma, 20  all males.

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The suspects, who specialised in vandalising transformers and other public assets, confessed to the crime, while a tricycle they used for operation, rubber hand gloves, spanners, adjustable wrenches and workshop tools were recovered from them, Mr Ndukwe said.

The case is undergoing further discreet investigation at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Enugu, and (suspects) will be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation, he added.

Recovery of firearm and ammunition

Mr Ndukwe also said the police in the state at about 1:30 a.m. on Saturday recovered a locally fabricated rifle from where it was abandoned by fleeing robbery suspects at New Artisan Market in Enugu North Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesperson said operatives serving at New Haven Police Divisional Headquarters recovered the rifle which was loaded with one live cartridge.

The operation carried out in collaboration with members of the Neighbourhood Watch Group in the market, followed a tip-off that the suspects were sighted in the area, the police said.

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New Delhi: TATA Starbucks Pvt. Ltd. today announced a range of new offerings to customers across its more than 341 Starbucks stores in India, including an exciting lineup of locally inspired new beverages, a completely refreshed food menu selection, and new small cup size Picco. As TATA Starbucks opens 71 stores in F23 taking its total store count to 341 in 43 cities, the new product offerings demonstrate TATA Starbucks long-term investment to the growth of one of its fastest-growing markets and its commitment to deliver the signature Starbucks experience in ways that best connects with Indias customers.

The expansion of the new offerings nationwide follows TATA Starbucks successful trial of localized menus in Bengaluru, Bhopal, Gurgaon, and Indore in July last year, which was met with positive feedback from customers.

We have had a great year in F23 with strong revenues and are now present in 43 cities of India. As we expand our presence in Tier 2 and 3 cities, we need to become a more familiar and accessible brand for our consumers. Our pilot where we introduced a range of familiar beverages and a revamped food menu yielded fantastic results from both new and existing customers, which gave us the confidence to expand and go national. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to our vision of being the coffee destination of choice for customers in India. Our unwavering commitment to delivering personalized experiences has propelled Starbucks to become one of the most loved brands in India. We recently celebrated 10 years of TATA Starbucks, and as we gear up for the next stage of growth in India, we continue to look at ways to elevate the Starbucks experience for customers in India, said Sushant Dash, CEO, TATA Starbucks Pvt Ltd.

The new offerings have been launched and are headlined by a series of Indian-inspired new beverages including the delicious South Indian Filter Coffee, Masala Chai, Elaichi Chai, and a range of exciting Signature Milkshakes. Customers seeking delicious food alongside their favorite beverages will also be able to enjoy a new food selection featuring bite-sized snacks, shareable food such as Hazelnut Triangle, Chicken Puffin, and Chocolate Eclair. The new food menu also offers a range of freshly assembled sandwiches that are inspired by the local cultural taste and regional favorites such as the Tandoori Chicken Panini Sandwich, Spiced Cottage Cheese Focaccia Sandwich, Herbed Chicken Focaccia Sandwich and more. For first time coffee drinkers and customers new to Starbucks, the new 6oz small cup size Picco offered in 6 hot beverages including Cappuccino, Latte, Filter Coffee, Masala Chai, Elaichi Chai and Hot Chocolate, is the perfect option to kick start their Starbucks journey.

The exciting new beverages and food items are offered in the prices below:

The all-new Filter Coffee, Masala Chai and Elaichi Chai. Starting at INR 185*

The Signature Milkshakes. Available in Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla flavors. Starting at INR 275*

Bite-sized and shareable food items including Hazelnut Triangle, Chicken Puffin, Chocolate Eclair. Starting at INR 160*

Freshly assembled sandwiches including the Spiced Cottage Cheese Focaccia Sandwich, Herbed Chicken Focaccia Sandwich, and the Tandoori Chicken Panini Sandwich. Starting at INR 380*

Picco size cup of Cappuccino, Latte, Signature Hot Chocolate, Elaichi Chai, Masala Chai, Filter coffee starting at INR 185*



*Product prices vary by city and store type, T&C Apply

The announcement also marks the national launch of the brands new campaign - #ItStartsWithYourName. The campaign celebrates the spirit of connection, warmth and personalization that welcomes everyone as soon as they step into a Starbucks store and makes them feel at home. It celebrates the love that binds together families in India.

Since entering the Indian market in 2012, TATA Starbucks now operates more than 341 stores across 43 cities with over 3,800 partners (employees) who proudly wear the green apron, serving more than 400,000 customers in India every week.

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CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Food Antioxidants Market is estimated at USD 1.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.2 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 6.2% from 2023 to 2028 according to a report published by MarketsandMarkets. There are several factors responsible for the expected increase in demand for food antioxidants. Some of which are the growing awareness among consumers about the health benefits of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are likely to seek out foods that contain elevated levels of antioxidants. And another major factor is the rise of functional foods is also expected to contribute to the increased demand for antioxidants in food. Functional foods are those that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. As consumers seek out foods that can help improve their health, the demand for foods that are fortified with antioxidants is likely to increase. Such factors potentially increase the demand for food antioxidants.

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The dry format in by form segment accounted for the largest share of the food antioxidants market in 2023 in terms of value.

Dry forms of antioxidants are typically less prone to spoiling or more stable than liquid form. This makes them easier to store and transport and ensures that they maintain their quality over time. These dry forms of antioxidants have longer periods of time without losing their effectiveness or characteristics. This makes them a more convenient option for food manufacturers who need to produce massive quantities of products and store them for extended periods of time. These factors are commonly considered by the food processing industries, while purchasing raw materials. Considering these facts, the demand for dry form of ingredients accounted for the largest segment of the food antioxidants market.

The fruits & vegetables in the natural sources segment accounted for the largest share of the food antioxidants market in 2023 in terms of value.

Naturally derived antioxidants from fruits and vegetables are gaining popularity in the food industry for several reasons. One of the factors is, health benefits of the naturally sourced antioxidants from fruits & vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are known to be rich sources of antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. These antioxidants have been shown to have numerous health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving cardiovascular health, and protecting against cancer. Consumers are increasingly interested in healthy food options, and many are looking for products that contain natural, plant-based ingredients. As a result, food manufacturers are responding to this demand by incorporating more fruits and vegetables, and their associated antioxidants, into their products.

Another popular growing trend in the food industry is the clean label trend. The naturally derived antioxidants fit well with this trend, as they are seen as more natural and less processed than synthetic antioxidants. Mentioning in labels about the fruits & vegetable extracts is an additional marketing gain for food industries. Thus, these factors potentially drive the market segment in the food antioxidants market.

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The prepared meat & poultry sub-segment for the applications segment is estimated to grow at the highest in the food antioxidants market.

According to data released by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, the world poultry consumption in 2022 was 133,696 thousand tons and is expected to be 144,874 thousand tons by 2029. This is due to an increase in population and growth in economic development. As countries become more economically developed, their populations tend to consume more meat and poultry. This is because people have more disposable income to spend on food, and meat is often seen as a status symbol or a sign of wealth. These developments and growth will increase the amount of meat & poultry consumption per capita. The meat & poultry industry uses antioxidants to prevent the oxidation of fats in meat products, which can lead to spoilage and rancidity. Thus, the demand for antioxidants potentially is estimated to grow at the highest in the food antioxidants market.

The Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest share and fastest growing market, in terms of value, of the global food antioxidants market in 2023.

The Asia Pacific region dominates the food antioxidants market. The region has a large population, which has led to an increase in demand for processed food and beverages. This has in turn fueled the demand for food antioxidants. Secondly, the food processing industry in the Asia Pacific region is diverse and includes various sub-sectors such as meat and poultry processing, dairy processing, bakery and confectionery, and processed fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the Asia Pacific region is home to many major foods processing companies, including Nestle, Danone, Fonterra, and Tyson Foods, among others. The region also has several local companies that are leaders in their respective markets. Thus, catering for all these food industries in this region have generated a high demand for the food antioxidants and accounted to be the largest share and fastest growing market.

Major key players operating in the food antioxidants market Archer Daniels Midland (US), BASF SE (Germany), International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (US), Eastman Chemical Company (US) and DSM (The Netherlands).

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Food Fortifying Agents Market by Type (Minerals, Vitamins, Carbohydrates, Prebiotics, Probiotics), Application (Cereal & Cereal-based Products, Bulk Food Items), Process (Drum Drying, Dusting) and Region - Global Forecast to 2027

Food Preservatives Market by Function (Antimicrobials, Antioxidants), Type (Synthetic Preservatives and Natural Preservatives), Application, and Region ( North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle-East Africa) - Global Forecast to 2028

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The Gordon Lightfoot who first performed in Toronto's Yorkville, what's now one of Canada's ritziest neighbourhoods, is not the Gordon Lightfoot we know today.

Yorkville transformed musicians, from Lightfoot to Neil Young to Joni Mitchell, almost as thoroughly as it was transformed in the second half of the 20th century. The neighbourhood now known for its multimillion-dollar condos, high-end restaurants and luxury boutiques was just 60 years ago a haven for hippies and a "hothouse" for future folk legends.

"Everything that would have taken five years anywhere else took one year in Yorkville, because there was so much input," said Mike Daley, a musicologist who's spent the last five years researching Yorkville's history.

"The creativity was just flowering there. And I think it's because of the particular qualities of the Yorkville coffee house district that you didn't see anywhere else."

In Lightfoot's case, Daley said, that looked like a sort of maturation. When he first started performing at the coffee shops in the bohemian community, he was part of the folk duo the Two Tones with his old friend Terry Whelan.

In 1962, they recorded an album live in one of those coffee shops and named it "Two Tones at the Village Corner."

In the liner notes, Lightfoot describes the setting as "what used to be an old house, about the size of a shoe box." The club was a dark room downstairs, he wrote, and the air was thick and sticky, filled with smoke.

The album opens with "We Come Here to Sing," an upbeat folk song that proclaims while "some come here for coffee" and "some come here for tea or some such thing," Lightfoot and Whelan come to Yorkville's coffee houses to sing.

Three years later, Daley said, Lightfoot would go on to perform at the Riverboat, one of Yorkville's most famous coffee houses in the '60s, for the first time.

Story continues

"The newspaper reviews of Gordon's first appearance at the Riverboat in the spring of 1965, and then the reviews in the fall of 1965, the development that these critics talk about is just incredible," he said.

"Yorkville was really his finishing school as both a performer and a songwriter."

Sylvia Tyson, who was herself a Yorkville folkie as one half of the duo Ian & Sylvia, recalled rubbing shoulders with Lightfoot at the time.

"It was a very small music scene at that point. I mean, today it's enormous, of course," she said in an interview with The Canadian Press. "And because it was small, we all knew each other and all supported each other."

She first saw Lightfoot at another of his regular haunts, Steele's Tavern on Yonge Street, which was more of a traditional venue, and not part of the Yorkville scene.

"Unlike a lot of places, it actually had a bar. Most of them were coffee houses," Tyson said.

Daley said that's because there was a bylaw in Yorkville instituted in the 1940s that capped the number of liquor licences.

"It was designed to keep taverns out of Yorkville. They didn't want what had happened on Yonge Street to happen in Yorkville," he said.

Real estate in the area was undervalued at the time, he said, so it was cheap and easy to rent a space and bring musicians in to attract customers.

"These tended to be small places. They were run with a low overhead, and folk music was ideal for these spaces," he said.

Victorian row houses, some of them painted bright colours, were converted from single-family homes into commercial buildings or rooming houses.

Robin Elliott, director of the Institute for Canadian Music at the University of Toronto, recalled his single trip to Yorkville in the late 1960s.

"It was a scene in the sense that Haight Ashbury in San Francisco was a scene. Yorkville had its own distinctive vibe. There were lots of shops offering drug paraphernalia, people smoking pot all over the place  back before that was legal, obviously," he said.

As the neighbourhood became more popular among hippies, and especially among teenagers who were allowed into the all-ages coffee houses, politicians started taking note, Daley said.

They slapped coffee house owners with bylaw violations, and upped enforcement in other ways.

"They started bringing in a big police presence to control the hippies," Daley said. "And by 1968, Yorkville's hippie scene and the music scene had been cleared away for the growth of these upscale discos," he said.

Those discotheques did away with live music in favour of recorded songs for partiers to dance to.

In the late '60s and '70s, real estate investors started buying up land, beginning the neighbourhood's transformation into one of the poshest places in Canada.

"They renovated the places. They in some cases tore down the old buildings and built new ones," Daley said. "And they raised the rents."

Real estate developer Ian Richard Wookey, for example, bought up swaths of the neighbourhood in an effort to clean it up and preserve its charm.

The high-end boutiques, which had been in Yorkville before the folk scene emerged and lasted through its reign, began to thrive once again. The neighbourhood's proximity to a stretch of Bloor Street long known as the Mink Mile also helped establish it as a place of prosperity.

The introduction of the Bloor subway line also contributed to the neighbourhood's transformation, Daley said. All of a sudden, it was much more accessible and its land was therefore more valuable.

By the 1970s, the Riverboat was one of the last coffee houses left. Folk had fallen out of favour among the music-loving masses, so only the diehards kept coming back, Daley said.

The Riverboat's business model made it sustainable, he said. There would be multiple performances in a night, and the crowd would be cleared out between each show, increasing the potential income from cover fees.

But in 1978, even the Riverboat would close down.

But Daley said the neighbourhood's legacy can't be erased so easily. It was fundamental to Joni Mitchell's development as an artist, exposing her to all sorts of different music and input from numerous other artists.

"There was a lot of competition, and so I think that drove artists to work harder and to do better and to try to distinguish themselves and be different," he said. "And because you're meeting so many different types of people, it's a great place for alliances.

"These two musicians from different worlds would meet, and then they'd start collaborating together and it would take them both somewhere completely different."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 5, 2023.

Nicole Thompson, The Canadian Press
MISSION, Kan., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- (Family Features) Mental health and psychological well-being are essential for children, adolescents and communities to thrive. With crises in locations such as Ukraine, Syria, Turkey and Afghanistan, the mental health and well-being of children and young people around the world are causes for concern.

Photo courtesy of UNICEF

Globally, more than 1 in 7 adolescents ages 10-19 live with mental health conditions, according to UNICEF. Children and youth globally, including those in the United States, face challenges bridging the gap in terms of mental health needs and proper access to quality services.

The COVID-19 pandemic coupled with school closures and disruptions in learning impacted nearly 1.6 billion children globally. Anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions actively threaten children's ability to be healthy and happy. Addressing key mental health and psychosocial issues to support their development can allow them to meaningfully participate in society.

Together, UNICEF and UNICEF USA are advocating on a local, national and global scale to provide children with the tools they need to support mental health. On a global level, the organizations are calling on Congress to pass the Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act, the first federal legislation that addresses mental health and psychosocial support through U.S. foreign assistance. It focuses primarily on populations with increased risk factors for developing mental health disorders including children and caretakers in crisis-affected communities, gender-based violence survivors, displaced populations and more.

Raising awareness, engaging youth and sharing resources to support parents, adolescents and children are core ways to address the current state of global mental health. To learn more about how you can support these efforts and call on elected officials to prioritize mental health services for children and caregivers in U.S. foreign assistance, visit act.unicefusa.org/MINDSAct or text "MINDS" to 52886.

Photo courtesy of UNICEF

Michael French

[email protected]

1-888-824-3337

editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate
SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The All Stars Project, Inc. (ASP) and ICA Cristo Rey Academy of San Francisco, CA (ICA Cristo Rey) today announced a new strategic partnership to advance workforce development and educational outcomes. ASP is a national, privately-funded nonprofit organization providing award-winning free afterschool development programs for youth in poor and underserved communities. ICA Cristo Rey is a vibrant college preparatory school that transforms girls from underserved communities into confident young women empowered to realize their full potential.

ICA Cristo Rey Academy students with Shadae McDaniel, Vice President/Director of Strategic Initiatives, All Stars Project (second row, sixth from left) and Rachel Altmann, Director of Virtual Programs, All Stars Project (second row, third from the right) at the school's 13th Annual Business Lunch. Photo Credit: Nico Henderson / Drew Altizer Photography

Over the last year, ICA Cristo Rey and ASP have collaborated to empower youth through performance experiences, to build confidence, try new roles and create new opportunities for their future in college or the workforce. By establishing a formal strategic partnership both organizations will amplify their impact and realize shared goals.

"ICA Cristo Rey is proud to partner with ASP on new kinds of developmental programming driven by our shared mission to give high school aged youth from underserved communities opportunities to grow in ways that empower them to be leaders in their lives and community," said Dr. Karen Kenkel, President, ICA Cristo Rey.

Through decades of working with youth in high poverty urban areas and in partnership with researchers from Southern Methodist University's Center on Research and Evaluation, ASP has identified and validated eight Dimensions of Development that, when strengthened, help youth to develop  to learn new things, build relationships with people and collaborate. "I am thrilled to have played a role in connecting these like-minded organizations. We need to find greater synergy in the Bay Area between high-performing groups, so they can share resources, and best practices and dramatically increase impact though each organization's strength." said Mark Bley, CEO of Dome Construction Foundation in San Francisco, CA and ASP of San Francisco Bay Area Board Member.

ICA Cristo Rey's synergy with ASP's performance-based approach to development was experienced first-hand through workshops led by ASP with ICA Cristo Rey high school students. These workshops included networking sessions hosted at Dome Construction, public speaking and interpersonal skills and a full orientation session focused on team and relationship building. "All Stars is proud to partner with ICA Cristo Rey and participate in an increasingly more progressive student-owned learning environment. The All Stars Project's award-winning 'development through performance' approach includes a powerful set of tools and capabilities for the young women of ICA Cristo Rey. We can't wait to support ICA Cristo Rey's students with these 21st century learning skills so they can see themselves as creators of their own success through strengthening interpersonal and professional performance skills." said Shadae McDaniel, Vice President, Director of Strategic Initiatives, ASP.

ASP President and Incoming CEO, Chris Street said, "It is exciting to create a new kind of school-community collaboration which has profound national implications. We salute the innovation mindset of ICA's leadership and we believe the Bay Area corporate community will be a vital partner in this experiment to create new scalable solutions for the education to workforce ecosystem. The formalization of this partnership is a natural outgrowth of our existing collaboration, and is the next step in this important journey of discovery."

About The All Stars Project:

The All Stars Project is a privately funded national nonprofit organization with a 40-year history of grassroots organizing and community building in poor neighborhoods. Its mission is to transform the lives of youth and poor communities using the developmental power of performance in partnership with caring adults, giving everyone the opportunity to grow. ASP's award-winning programs bring people from all racial, economic and social walks of life together to create something positive, new and transformative for all involved. ASP operates nationally in New York City; Newark and Jersey City, NJ; Chicago, Dallas; and the San Francisco Bay Area with volunteers and partnerships in over 20 states.

About ICA Cristo Rey Academy:

ICA Cristo Rey Academy is a vibrant college preparatory high school that champions young women from underserved communities as they build confidence and become empowered to realize their full potential. We deliver a career-focused college preparatory education, integrating a rigorous academic curriculum with four years of professional work experience and support to and through college. ICA Cristo Rey has a 140-year history in San Francisco's Mission District and a dedicated network of educators and corporate mentors who deliver this unique learning experience, incorporating the Sisters of Mission San Jose's Dominican Catholic traditions as we prepare students for lives of faith, purpose, and service.

Press Contact

Jackie Lucas

Vera Voce Communication

978-255-1159

[email protected]

SOURCE All Stars Project
SAN ANTONIO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) is excited to announce its 51st National ALPFA Convention , which will take place in the heart of San Antonio, Texas at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center on August 20 through 24, 2023. This year's convention is expected to be attended by over 4,000 students, professionals, and leaders.

You can expect to leave with the skills, support system and most importantly the power to propel to the next level. Tweet this 2023 ALPFA Convention

The four-day gathering will offer attendees professional and leadership development through sessions and workshops, signature events, career fair, and award ceremonies. The theme of the convention is Real Power. True Culture, celebrating and reflecting on the positive changes that are happening both within our membership and around the globe. As ALPFA continues to expand its reach across new industries and increase its impact, the inclusion and presence of Latinos continues to increase globally. For the attendees, this convention will serve as a platform to experience the diversity and similarities of culture within the Latino community to embrace their identities while excelling in their careers.

"This event provides an excellent chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in the Latino community. Everyone can learn from industry leaders, build new relationships, and explore career opportunities. Whether you are a student or a professional, this convention has something for you," said Damian Rivera, CEO of ALPFA.

The Convention will be kicked off by our two exclusive senior professional programs. First being DivERGe, the Employee Resource Group (ERG) Training Program, offering three virtual and two-day in person sessions, to set ERG leaders on the path to success by aligning passion and purpose with corporate DEI goals. The second program is LEAD, ALPFA's premier leadership development program targets Latinos seeking to reach the next level in their careers and life. The Senior Director of Operations, Jennylee Ramos explains the impact of the event, "our convention isn't just about bringing people together, it's about igniting the spark of inspiration that fuels us to achieve greatness in our personal and professional lives. You can expect to leave with the skills, support system and most importantly the power to propel to the next level."

One of the most sought after of the convention is the two-day Career Fair where thousands of interviews, internships and jobs are offered onsite by leading companies across finance, accounting, business, technology, and more. The multi-day event will also consist of panel discussions, fireside chats, skill-working workshops, and the first entrepreneur pitch competition.

"This is the beginning of the next 50 years for ALPFA and my 21st ALPFA Convention in a row. It is a spectacular location and I am excited to share my love for ALPFA with my family who will attend with me and with the family I have living in San Antonio which is a wonderful city with a fantastic Latino history. Join me!" said Toni Curtis, ALPFA Board Chair.

Registration for the ALPFA National Convention 2023 is open. To learn more and register, visit here . The ALPFA 2023 National Convention is sponsored by Moodys, Deloitte, Google, Bank of America and many more.

About ALPFA:

ALPFA is the largest Latino professional organization in the United States, with over 116,000 members. ALPFA is dedicated to empowering and developing Latino men and women as leaders of character for the nation, in every sector of the global economy. For more information, visit https://www.alpfa.org/ .

MEDIA REGISTRATION

ALPFA welcomes media who are employed by accredited news and media organizations to request for media credentials to cover the event and media interview. Members of the media are encouraged to pre-register for the conference. Please contact the media contact via email with the subject lines based on your media needs.

ALPFA Convention Logos

SOURCE Association of Latino Professionals For America
Two online resources aimed at enhancing care planning and support for dementia caregivers and individuals affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.

CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Alzheimer's Association has enhanced two online resources  ALZNavigator and ALZConnected  aimed at supporting dementia caregivers and individuals affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.

ALZNavigator , developed with the help of individuals living with dementia and caregivers, is an interactive online tool that creates custom action plans for individuals and families to help navigate disease-related challenges based on their current situation with the disease. By answering a few questions, the tool creates customized action plans, providing information and local resources to address common challenges including: daily care, communication, financial and legal planning, safety, caregiver health, and caregiver support.

"Alzheimer's disease is challenging and not always straightforward, but this tool can help affected individuals and family caregivers plan for the road ahead," said Monica Moreno, senior director, care and support, Alzheimer's Association. "Whether an individual is noticing memory changes, living with dementia, living with memory loss, or cares for someone who is, ALZNavigator can guide an individual's next steps."

The online tool also includes specific information and resources for people who identify as LGBTQ, military veterans, individuals living with younger-onset Alzheimer's disease, and people who are concerned about themselves or someone else but do not yet have a diagnosis. ALZNavigator was developed by the Alzheimer's Association with support from Procter & Gamble.

The Alzheimer's Association has also made significant enhancements to ALZConnected , a free online community designed for people living with dementia and those who care for them. ALZConnected, is a user-friendly platform, allowing dementia caregivers and affected individuals to engage and get support from others sharing common disease related experiences and challenges. Members can post questions about dementia-related issues, offer support, and create public and private groups around specific topics.

Many ALZConnected participants have usernames that depict their circumstances, one user who goes by the name 2parents/brain change recently wrote, "This forum really does save my sanity. It normalizes my life during this time." Another, TiffanyL, added, "It's so comforting to know there is an amazing place where we can come to feel supported and receive helpful information."

"ALZConnected provides a safe online community where people living with the disease and their caregivers can share their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges," Moreno said. "Knowing you are not alone and receiving support from others can be very cathartic."

According to the 2023 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures report, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease today. The number of Americans living with Alzheimer's is projected to reach nearly 13 million by 2050.

More information on ALZConnected and ALZNavigator, or other care and support programs and resources, visit alz.org .

About the Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia  by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

SOURCE Alzheimer's Association
The leading data center operator submitted Iceland for the Tech Capital Location Award which aims to highlight geographical benefits to digital infrastructure investors.

REYKJAVIK, Iceland, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- atNorth the leading Nordic colocation, high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence service provider, has announced today that their Iceland entry has been shortlisted for the Tech Capital Location Award, the only annual prize to recognize a geography for its attractiveness and investor friendly climate when dealing with digital infrastructure investors.

atNorth showcased the benefits of investing in Iceland in general, such as the abundance of natural resources and the fact that the energy produced is 100% generated by renewable sources, in addition to the stable political situation, circular economy principles, and ample connectivity prowess. As a result of these factors, Iceland has a reliable power supply and low energy costs, which makes it an ideal location for technology investment specifically. Furthermore, atNorth were able to demonstrate how pivotal Iceland's climate is for the cooling of high performance infrastructure by utilizing the example of their long standing client BNP Paribas that resulted in a 50% reduction in energy consumption, an 85% reduction in CO2 fooprint that ultimately lead to significant cost savings.

atNorth continues to promote Iceland and the rest of the Nordic region in general as best in class locations for their state of the art data centers. The company will continue to build additional sites in the region as part of their growth strategy to expand their services sustainably and strategically to support the increasing need for energy efficient, data-intensive computing.

"We are thrilled that our entry for Iceland has been shortlisted by the Tech Capital Awards but we are not surprised as the conditions in Iceland for digital infrastructure are extremely favourable," says Gisli Kr., Chief Sales Officer, at AtNorth. "As the demand for our services continues to grow we are delighted that one of our Nordic locations of choice has been recognized as an ideal location for tech investment and hope that this will encourage businesses to continue to make the most of its advantages."

More information on these awards can be found at the Tech Capital Award website (https://thetechcapital.com/)

About atNorth

atNorth is a leading Pan-Nordic data center services company that offers sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable colocation and high-performance computing services across Iceland, Sweden and Finland. The company operates five data centers in strategic locations across the Nordics, with a sixth site to open in Akureyri, Iceland in Q2, 2023 and a seventh site to open in Finland in 2024.

With sustainability at its core, atNorth's data centers run on renewable energy resources and support circular economy principles. All atNorth sites leverage innovative design, power efficiency, and intelligent operations to provide long-term infrastructure and flexible colocation deployments. The tailor-made solutions enable businesses to calculate, simulate, train and visualize data workloads in an efficient, cost-optimized way.

atNorth is headquartered in Reykjavik, Iceland, and is trusted by industry-leading organizations to operate their most critical workloads. The business was founded in 2009 and acquired by Partners Group in 2022. For more information, visit atNorth.com or follow atNorth on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter.

Press Contacts

Caroline Brunton / Natalie Palfreman

Kite Hill PR for atNorth

+44 (0) 7796 274416

[email protected] / [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE atNorth
For the 7th consecutive year, Barbachano International is recognized by Forbes in 2023, ranking #12 on America's Best Executive Search Firms , and for the first time recognized as one of America's Best Professional Recruiting Firms, ranking #19.

SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Barbachano International (BIP), the premier executive search and leadership advisory firm in the Americas focusing on diversity and multicultural target markets, has been ranked #12 on Forbes Magazine's 2023 America's Best Executive Search Firms list. For seven consecutive years, BIP has been recognized by Forbes as America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms and this year jumped from #26 to #12. For the first time, BIP was also named in a new category to Forbes' list of America's Best Professional Recruiting Firms , ranking #19. This category recognizes the firms that excel in recruiting professionals across various industries, including manufacturing, finance, consumer products, and technology.

Rankings are based on an independent survey by Forbes and Statista of hiring managers, HR professionals, job candidates, and external recruiters. The 45,600 respondents rated organizations based on their direct experiences.

"We are thrilled that for seven consecutive years, Forbes has recognized Barbachano International as one of America's Best Executive Search Firms, ranking #12 out of over 18,000 firms and for the first time to America's Best Professional Recruiting Firms list, ranking #19," said Fernando Ortiz-Barbachano, CEO of BIP. "Our talent and leadership advisors consistently deliver exceptional and lasting solutions to our customers. Our quick ascent from #155 to #12 in just seven years is based on our team's relentless drive to exceed what our clients and candidates expect: integrity, knowledgeable problem-solving, and high-quality, timely solutions. We are proud to be ranked among the best in our industry and look forward to continuing our journey to the top."

About Barbachano International

Barbachano International is the premier executive search and leadership advisory firm in the Americas , focusing on diversity and multicultural target markets. BIP has 15 search practice groups, including Consumer Goods, Manufacturing, Agribusiness, Medical Devices, Automotive, Aerospace, Electronics & Technology. Since 1992, BIP and its affiliates have impacted the profitability of over 50% of Fortune 500 Companies. Headquartered in San Diego, California, with satellite offices in Florida and Mexico. As member-owners of NPAworldwide Recruitment Network, we are supported by partner offices in over 50 countries.

Media Contact

Company Name: Barbachano International, Inc

Contact Person: Claudia Lorenzo

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 619-427-2310

SOURCE Barbachano International, Inc.
VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - BBTV Holdings Inc. (TSX: BBTV) (OTCQX: BBTVF) (Frankfurt: 64V) ("BBTV" or the "Company"), the leading creator monetization company with a mission to help creators become more successful, today announced that it will release its financial results for the first quarter 2023 after market close on Friday, May 12th. The Company will subsequently hold a conference call that same day at 2:15pm Pacific Time/5:15pm Eastern Time hosted by Shahrzad Rafati, Chairperson and CEO, and KB Brinkley, CFO. A question and answer session will follow the corporate update.

Conference Call Details

Friday, May 12th, 2:15pm Pacific Time/5:15pm Eastern Time

Operator Assisted Dial-In:

Access Code: 630766

North America (Toll Free): 1 833 470 1428

North America (Local): 1 404 975 4839

Global Dial-In Numbers

Press *1 to ask a question, *2 to withdraw your question, or *0 for operator assistance.

Please connect at least 15 minutes prior to the conference call.

To coincide with the call, an Investor Highlights presentation will be available at: https://investors.bbtv.com/events-and-presentations/default.aspx

Links to SEDAR filings, conference call recordings and press releases are available on the investor website at: https://investors.bbtv.com/

Telephonic Replay:

Access Code: 761297

North America (Toll Free): 1 866 813 9403

North America: 1 929 458 6194

Replay Expiration Date: Wednesday, May 26th, 2023 at 11:59 PM PDT

About BBTV

BBTV is a global media and technology company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. The Company's mission is to help content creators become more successful. With creators ranging from individuals to global media brands, BBTV provides comprehensive, end-to-end Solutions to increase viewership and drive revenue powered by its innovative technology, while allowing creators to focus on their core competency  content creation. In December 2022, BBTV had the fourth most unique monthly viewers among digital platforms with more than 600 million globally, who consumed more than 35 billion minutes of video content [1]. ( www.bbtv.com )

[1] Calculations and classifications made by BBTV based on data from Comscore's "Top 12 Countries = December 2021 comScore Video Metrix Media Trend  Multi-Platform  Top 100 Video Properties Report"; Top 12 countries represent ~50% of world's digital population.



Contacts: Media Relations Mark Funston 778-288-4950 [email protected] Investor Relations [email protected]



Contact: Ron Shuttleworth Partner Oak Hill Financial Inc 6475007371 [email protected]

BBTV-F

SOURCE BBTV Holdings Inc.
HANGZHOU, China, May 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bliss Biopharmaceutical (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd, ("BlissBio") a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing differentiated antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) therapeutics, announced a clinical trial collaboration agreement with option for strategic collaboration with Eisai Co., Ltd. ("Eisai"), for BB-1701, eribulin-payload based ADC directed against Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) for the treatment of cancers.

This collaboration with Eisai is an important advancement in BlissBio's corporate development plan to further develop BB-1701 globally and help advance BB-1701 toward late stage of development. BB-1701 is currently in Phase I/II studies in the US and China with over one hundred patients dosed in various types of cancers.

Under the terms of the agreement, BlissBio will receive upfront and milestone payments, and BlissBio and Eisai will conduct co-development activities related to BB-1701 through an option period. Upon Eisai's exercise of its option to enter into a strategic collaboration license of BB-1701, BlissBio will receive an option exercise payment and be eligible for development and commercial milestone payments up to an aggregate of $2 billion, as well as royalties on sales. Upon the exercise of the option, Eisai will receive worldwide (excluding Greater China) rights to develop and commercialize BB-1701.

"This clinical collaboration with Eisai, one of a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company with strong oncology R&D capability worldwide, is a significant accomplishment for BlissBio, as it allows us to further develop this promising compound, BB-1701", stated Dr. Ziping Wei, Chief Executive Officer of BlissBio. "Through this important partnership we will commit to working with Eisai to advance the development of BB-1701 for the benefit of patients worldwide."

About BB-1701

BB-1701 is an innovative ADC developed by BlissBio consisting of anti-HER2 antibody and eribulin. It is designed to provide a safer and more effective treatment regimen for patients with locally advanced/metastatic HER2 expressing solid tumors and expected to have multiple market prospects for application in various tumor indications. BB-1701 has unique mechanism of action (MOA) including potent bystander effect and immunogenic cell death (ICD) activity. BB-1701 is conducting Phase I/II international clinical trials both in China and US.

About Bliss Biopharmaceutical (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd

Bliss Biopharmaceutical (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. ("BlissBio"), is a clinical-stage biotech company dedicated on discovery, development and commercialization of anti-tumor biotherapeutics, founded by pharmaceutical veterans in 2017 in Qiantang Area, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. BlissBio has established a unique and patented technical platform, a rich ADC-focusing pipeline, and GMP manufacture capability that could support antibody and ADC production for both clinical development and early commercialization. BlissBio has been nominated as a national high-tech biopharmaceutical enterprise in China. With "Together, We Improve Human Health" as the core value, through international and domestic collaborations, BlissBio will continue to focus on innovative drugs to address unmet medical needs.

For more information please visit https://www.blissbiopharma.com

About Eisai Co., Ltd

Eisai's Corporate Concept is "to give first thought to patients and people in the daily living domain, and to increase the benefits that health care provides." Under this Concept (also known as our human health care (hhc) Concept), we aim to effectively achieve social good in the form of relieving anxiety over health and reducing health disparities. With a global network of R&D facilities, manufacturing sites and marketing subsidiaries, we strive to create and deliver innovative products to target diseases with high unmet medical needs, with a particular focus in our strategic areas of Neurology and Oncology.

In addition, our continued commitment to the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), which is a target (3.3) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is demonstrated by our work on various activities together with global partners.

For more information about Eisai, please visit www.eisai.com (for global headquarters: Eisai Co., Ltd.), and connect with us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Media Inquiries

Bliss Biopharmaceutical (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd

TEL: +86-0571-86808367

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Bliss Biopharmaceutical (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd
PORTLAND, Ore., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cambia Health Solutions is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2023 US Best Managed Company. Sponsored by Deloitte* Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams.

This recognition reaffirms our employees' commitment to serving the needs of our health plan members and customers. Tweet this 2023 US Best Managed Companies

The 2023 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people and fostering a dynamic culture, as well as strong financials. Designees propelled their businesses forward and remained true to their purpose and values by investing in their people, creating advantage through digital transformation, taking measurable action on sustainability, and demonstrating their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

"We are proud and honored to be recognized as a US Best Managed Company for a third year," said Jared Short, Cambia Health Solutions' president and CEO. "This award is a testament to our culture and values. At our core, we believe success is measured not just by financial performance, but by our ability to make health care easier and lives better. This recognition reaffirms our employees' commitment to serving the needs of our health plan members and customers."

Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 46 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices  strategy, execution, culture and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

About Cambia Health Solutions

Cambia Health Solutions, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is dedicated to transforming health care. We put people at the heart of everything we do as we work to make the health care system more economically sustainable and efficient for people and their families. Our company reaches millions of Americans nationwide, including more than 3.4 million people served by our regional health plans. To learn more about us, visit CambiaHealth.com or twitter.com/Cambia.

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of our legal structure.

SOURCE Cambia Health Solutions
SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capewell, a global leader in custom-engineered survivability and aerial delivery solutions, announced that Erin Macaluso has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer.

Capewell, a global leader in custom-engineered survivability and aerial delivery solutions, announced that Erin Macaluso has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer.

As Capewell's Chief Financial Officer, Macaluso will report to Lane Wiggers, Capewell's Chief Executive Officer, and be accountable for developing, managing, and executing against the company's overall financial goals. She will also be responsible for daily oversight of financial and accounting operations across all Capewell locations in the United States and Europe, including strategic planning, revenue forecasting, financial compliance and documentation, and investment activity.

"Capewell could not be more excited with Erin's addition to the leadership team as our new CFO," commented Wiggers. "Erin has exceptional financial acumen and manufacturing expertise and is exactly the right leader at the right time on Capewell's growth trajectory."

Erin Macaluso is an accomplished finance professional with over two decades of experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) specifically for the defense and aerospace sectors. FP&A includes planning, forecasting, budgeting, and analytical activities that support a company's major business decisions and overall financial health.

Macaluso began her career in public accounting at one of the top 20 accounting and consulting firms in the United States. Since then, Macaluso has worked in a variety accounting and finance capacities of increasing responsibility, including her most recent role as Director of Finance at Pursuit Aerospace (formerly Paradigm Precision), a global manufacturer of complex aircraft engine components for both commercial and military use. During her time at Pursuit Aerospace, Macaluso was responsible for implementing a comprehensive reporting system to capture key metrics and trending data across the global organization that did not previously exist. This was instrumental in streamlining the organization's ability to quantify the financial impact of process improvements across the company. She was also responsible for reporting ongoing performance gains to the executive team.

Prior to that, Macaluso spent more than 15 years in the financial management department at Pratt & Whitney, a global leader in propulsion systems used in some of the most advanced commercial and military aircraft in the world. As one of the "big three" aero-engine manufacturers, the company competes with General Electric and Rolls-Royce, and has been awarded several large contracts with the Department of Defense over the years.

"After nearly two decades at companies that make equipment for commercial and military aircraft, I'm excited to join the Capewell team and become part of a company with a rich history in aerial delivery and survivability solutions that keep service men and women around the world safe. I look forward to collaborating with the rest of Capewell team to support its mission and drive continued growth well into the future," said Erin.

"Erin is a rare breed, an unbelievable financial talent while simultaneously being a leader of incredible character. She's contributed decades of financial leadership at global organizations that manufacture complex, mission-critical products for military aircraft around the world. This experience is an invaluable asset to our organization, and we are thrilled to have her on our team," said Thomas Weidley, Capewell's Chief Operating Officer.

Erin holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Management, both from the University of Connecticut. She is also a Certified Public Accountant.

About Capewell

Founded in 1881, Capewell is a leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor survivability and aerial delivery products and services for the defense community. With locations in the United States and Europe, Capewell supplies the Department of Defense, Allies, and Partners around the world with the most innovative, most effective custom-engineered solutions capable of withstanding today's dangerous operating environments. The company also offers training and doctrine development as part of its mission to save lives and increase success. Capewell maintains strong relationships with large government prime contractors and is a vital part of the global supply chain.

To learn more, visit www.capewell.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2070166/Erin_Headshot.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1420426/Capewell_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Capewell
Soviet Barbara, the Story of Ragnar Kjartansson in Moscow

Gaukur Ulfarsson's documentary Soviet Barbara, the Story of Ragnar Kjartansson in Moscow (part of Toronto's Hot Docs festival), raises questions about art, politics in censorship as it chronicles the creation of artist Ragnar Kjartansson retrospective in a Moscow museum.

Back in 2021, Kjartansson was given the opportunity to open a massive retrospective at the GES-2 House of Culture in Moscow, a renovated power plant owned by a Russian oligarch.

The retrospective included recreations of episodes of the U.S. soap opera Santa Barbara, which had been a massive hit in Russia.

We've known of each other for a long time and we have a group of friends that are the same group of friends, filmmaker Ulfarsson told Yahoo Canada about creating a documentary around Kjartansson's work. A very good friend of mine  told me about what Ragnar was going to do in Moscow.

I didn't really understand the scope of what he was going to be doing and later, maybe a week later, I spoke to him on the phone. ... Then he started talking to me about [Santa Barbara], and what he was going to be doing in Russia. Even then, after a long conversation on the phone, I didn't really understand, he just told me that he was going to recreate 99 episodes of Santa Barbara.

While it ended up being the basis of his film, Ulfarsson had an interesting initial response to this retrospective.

My first reaction was, this is completely ridiculous, Ulfarsson said. But this is also completely brilliant.

I didn't understand the politics about it firsthand.  He kind of gave me many of the layers and  I asked him if we could come and do a documentary on this. He was very willing to let us do it.

Soviet Barbara, the Story of Ragnar Kjartansson in Moscow

Soviet Barbara, the Story of Ragnar Kjartansson in Moscow shows individuals, and Kjartansson himself, questioning the ethics around showing this work in a Russian museum. Even equating the move to people going to consume art in museums funded by the Sackler family.

Story continues

My parents were also socialists so I completely identify with being passionate about Russia, Ulfarsson said. As a young man reading a lot of Russian literature, I always wanted to go and going there, I was completely amazed by how amazing Moscow is, and the people there are also beautiful people.

He really wanted to go there. This was a part of him as an artist.  The music and the literature from Russia is, I think there's no country that compares. So that's part of it I really understand.

But Ulfarsson identifies that the "heartbreaking" thing is how beautiful the city was, but had so much political turmoil.

When I started with this, I had a hunch that because of where he was going, things could happen, Ulfarsson said. After the invasion, obviously just completely took a U-turn, in a sense.

Kjartansson quickly had to face the reality that Putin's power will impact his art, including a visit from Putin himself. When Putin invaded Ukraine, that's when the reality sets in that Kjartansson art can't exist in what he calls a "full-blown fascist state."

For Ulfarsson, he hopes that Soviet Barbara, the Story of Ragnar Kjartansson in Moscow, provides an opportunity for people to think more about the threat of censorship.

I was reading in the Canadian newspapers yesterday about this Canadian poet, [Rupi Kaur who wrote 'Milk and Honey,'] Ulfarsson recalled. She's been banned [in the] United States. There are so many levels of censorship.
Workers Call on Mayor Lauretti to Stop Stalling, Pay Up

SHELTON, Conn., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters Local 145 members are demanding Mayor Mark Lauretti follow the law and honor their contract, after a state board awarded the Shelton municipal workers an agreement on March 29. The ruling grants workers better pay and working conditions.

"Mayor Lauretti is breaking the law by refusing to pay Shelton municipal workers their newly awarded wages," said Dennis Novak, Teamsters Local 145 Secretary-Treasurer. "The decision from the Connecticut State Board of Mediation and Arbitration is legally binding. Rather than play games and waste taxpayer dollars, Lauretti needs to pay these essential workers what they are owed."

During the four years that workers have been without a contract, Mayor Lauretti engaged in multiple anti-union actions, including direct bargaining with workers, threatening workers for trying to join the union, and outsourcing union work to nonunion city employees. Lauretti's most recent attempt to bargain directly with workers was a key decision-making factor in the state labor board's ruling for the new contract.

The newly awarded contract covers Teamster members who perform critical services working for the Highway and Bridges Department and includes increased wages, longevity bonuses, work gear stipends, stand-by pay, and additional vacation days.

"Lauretti needs to stop stalling so we can secure strong contracts for the Highway and Bridges Department and the Water Pollution Control facility," Novak said.

The three-year contract covers July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2021, while the contract for July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2024, is still awaiting a decision from the Connecticut State Board of Mediation and Arbitration.

Teamsters Local 145 serves workers in a wide variety of crafts throughout Southwestern Connecticut. For more information, go to teamsters145.org/

Contact:

Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877

[email protected]

SOURCE Teamsters Local 145
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Attention Rite Aid Corporation ("Rite Aid") (NYSE: RAD) shareholders:

The Law Offices of Vincent Wong announce that a class action lawsuit has commenced on behalf of investors who purchased between April 26, 2018 and March 13, 2023.

If you suffered a loss on your investment in Rite Aid, contact us about potential recovery by using the link below. There is no cost or obligation to you.

https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/rite-aid-class-action-submission-form?prid=38999&wire=4

ABOUT THE ACTION: The class action against Rite Aid includes allegations that the Company 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.

DEADLINE: May 19, 2023

Aggrieved Rite Aid investors only have until May 19, 2023 to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. You are not required to act as a lead plaintiff in order to share in any recovery.

Vincent Wong, Esq. is an experienced attorney who has represented investors in securities litigations involving financial fraud and violations of shareholder rights. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Vincent Wong, Esq.

39 East Broadway

Suite 304

New York, NY 10002

Tel. 212.425.1140

E-Mail: [email protected]

SOURCE The Law Offices of Vincent Wong
Entrepreneur Of The Year celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are building bolder futures

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Concerto Biosciences today announced that Co-founder and CEO Cheri Ackerman has been selected by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) as an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023 New England Award finalist.

Now in its 37th year, EY's Entrepreneur Of The Year is recognized as one of the preeminent competitive business awards for transformative entrepreneurs and leaders of high-growth companies who are contributing to a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous world.

Concerto Biosciences is exploring the microbial world to find breakthrough microbe-based products. Tweet this

Entrepreneurs were evaluated based on their demonstration of building long-term value through entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth, impact, and other contributions and attributes. Ackerman and other 2023 finalists were selected by an independent panel of judges.

"I am thrilled and honored to be recognized as a finalist for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023 New England award, and I'm thankful for all the mentors, advisors, and colleagues who have supported my professional journey and Concerto's growth," said Cheri Ackerman, Co-founder and CEO of Concerto Biosciences. "This is a great opportunity to spotlight the groundbreaking work we're doing at Concerto. We're on a mission to revolutionize the way the world thinks about microbial communities, and I'm grateful to EY for acknowledging our efforts."

Concerto Biosciences is a biotechnology company exploring the microbial world with unmatched experimental depth to find breakthrough microbe-based products. Since launching in 2020, Concerto has measured over 6 million microbial interactions with the company's patented kChip ultra-high-throughput platform, and discovered a specific combination of microbes that may correct the microbial deficiency underlying atopic dermatitis. By partnering with other microbiome, agricultural, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical companies, Concerto endeavors to become the premier catalyst for the development of a new era of microbial products.

Concerto completed a $23 million Series A fundraise last November led by Safar Partners and joined by Horizons Ventures and M Ventures. Concerto is currently diversifying its foundational discovery platform, kChip, across industries as diverse as healthcare, agriculture, and household products.

"This recognition of Cheri Ackerman is so richly deserved by such a talented and inspiring company leader," said Jared Kehe, PhD, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Concerto Biosciences. "It is also strong validation of our dream to create a healthier world where microbial ecology enables advanced medicines and environmentally conscious agricultural practices."

EY's regional Entrepreneur Of The Year award winners will be announced on June 7, 2023. Those winners will then be considered by the National judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum, one of the nation's most prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies. The Entrepreneur Of The Year National Overall Award winner will then move on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year Award in June 2024.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year program has recognized more than 11,000 entrepreneurs throughout the US since its inception in 1986, and it has grown to recognize business leaders across 145 cities in over 60 countries around the world.

About Entrepreneur Of The Year

Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world's most prestigious business awards program for unstoppable entrepreneurs. These visionary leaders deliver innovation, growth and prosperity that transform our world. The program engages entrepreneurs with insights and experiences that foster growth. It connects them with their peers to strengthen entrepreneurship around the world. Entrepreneur Of The Year is the first and only truly global awards program of its kind. It celebrates entrepreneurs through regional and national awards programs in more than 145 cities in over 60 countries. National Overall Award winners go on to compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year title. Visit ey.com/us/eoy.

About Concerto Biosciences

Concerto Biosciences explores the microbial world with unmatched experimental depth to find breakthrough microbe-based products. Natural microbial communities all around us are our inspiration: They can improve human health, enhance food quality, and boost crop yield. Creating products that harness these complex capabilities requires an unprecedented understanding of how microbial communities behave. Concerto therefore invented a kChip platform that physically constructs millions of miniature, defined microbial communities simultaneously. By observing the behavior of each community, Concerto learns which microbes, prebiotics, and metabolites drive the behavior of natural communities. In partnership with a diverse array of biotech and biopharma companies, Concerto develops these as products. In our first endeavor, Concerto constructed >6 million communities of skin-dwelling microbes to discover an eczema-alleviating "ensemble" of bacteria that pacifies pathogenic S. aureus. We have since initiated discovery projects in women's health, gut health, and agriculture. With its partners, Concerto is unleashing a new era of microbial research and a treasure trove of microbe-based products.

To learn more about Concerto Biosciences, visit www.concertobio.com.

Media Contact: Cosmo Macero, [email protected]

SOURCE Concerto Biosciences
2023 Projected to be Solid Year for Fishery

CORDOVA, Alaska, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Copper River Salmon season opens Monday, May 15th and anticipation is high for the robust genetically rich salmon that return to the cold glacial waters of the Copper River each season.

The steep river is home to five species of salmon and for the 2023 season, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game forecasts the Copper River king salmon run to be above average.

2023 marks the 40th anniversary of when Copper River king salmon made the leap from cans into fresh distribution. Tweet this Portland Chef Ryley Eckersley preparing Copper River king salmon 5 ways

Excitement is running high amongst fishermen, but the significance of this season runs deeper as it marks the 40th anniversary of when Copper River King salmon made the leap from cans into fresh distribution. Prior to 1983, the ultra-rich king was caught, processed, and tucked into cans for domestic markets. A small amount was shipped frozen to Japan.

As American consumer tastes expanded there was increased interest in wild and unique foods. A small cadre of Copper River fishermen took a risk and made a pivot towards handling the fish differently and shipping them fresh to select markets in the Lower 48. Working closely with Seattle seafood and restaurant consultant Jon Rowley at the time, was a leap of faith and played a key role in the fishery then and now. Rowley knew that the oil-rich salmon was genetically superior and eminently marketable. He worked directly with fishermen to improve quality and handling and to bring the salmon to Seattle restaurant clients immediately after it was caught.

Jerry McCune, a Copper River fisherman for 64 years, explained in an interview how making quality paramount required the fishermen to adjust what they were doing and how much fish they were catching. They had to take the unprecedented steps to bleed, clean, and ice the fish on board to maintain the inherent characteristics of the fish and they were the ones who had to secure air transport into and out of Cordova to get the fish delivered to Seattle and elsewhere in top condition. McCune explained, "The end result of this whole thing was that we broke the market and proved we could get fish out fresh and of high quality."

Christa Hoover, the Executive Director of the Copper River Prince William Sound Marketing Association reflects, "As this momentous season launches here in Cordova, we are so pleased that we could revisit and share the history of how the revered Copper River King salmon made a leap into a new realm. Conducting oral interviews and digging through historical archives, it has been incredibly satisfying to see how the fishery has evolved and yet remained steadfastly committed to quality for the consumer. We look forward to sharing this story now and into the future."

For historical background, photos, tips, and recipes, see The Noble Fish: Forty Years of Fresh Copper River Salmon.

To find Copper River Salmon, search for it on the Fish Finder.

Christa Hoover, Executive Director

[email protected]

https://www.copperriversalmon.org/

Copper River/PWS Marketing Association

SOURCE Copper River Prince William Sound Marketing Association
CALGARY, AB, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Crescent Point Energy Corp. ("Crescent Point" or the "Company") (TSX: CPG) (NYSE: CPG) advises that it has temporarily shut in its Kaybob Duvernay production in response to the recent Alberta wildfires. This precautionary measure is being taken by the Company to protect the safety of its staff, the community, environment, and its assets. As a result, approximately 45,000 boe/d of production in the Kaybob Duvernay has been temporarily shut-in with a plan to restart production once safe and permitted to do so. No damage has been reported to the Company's assets.

Crescent Point staff are currently working with local officials, regulators, and industry partners during their response to the wildfires. The Company is continually monitoring the situation and will provide an update when appropriate.

Crescent Point would like to commend its staff, industry partners, emergency responders and firefighters for protecting our communities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CRESCENT POINT ENERGY, PLEASE CONTACT:

Shant Madian, Vice President, Capital Markets, or

Sarfraz Somani, Manager, Investor Relations

Telephone: (403) 693-0020 Toll-free (US and Canada): 888-693-0020 Fax: (403) 693-0070

Address: Crescent Point Energy Corp. Suite 2000, 585 - 8th Avenue S.W. Calgary AB T2P 1G1

www.crescentpointenergy.com

Crescent Point shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CPG.

SOURCE Crescent Point Energy Corp.
CRMLS Signs Agreement with WellcomeMat to Bring Users Revolutionary New Video Management, Distribution, and Analytics Tools

CHINO HILLS, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS), the nation's largest MLS, announced it has signed an agreement with WellcomeMat, the creators of a video platform for real estate companies and professionals. WellcomeMat's marketing and distribution tools help improve, expand, and analyze real estate video content, keeping data and customizability in the hands of the content owner.

The WellcomeMat integration offers a brand-new video toolset for CRMLS users. Tweet this WellcomeMat will provide CRMLS users brand-new cutting-edge video toolsets.

WellcomeMat will bring hosted video support and video analytics to all brokerages and users of CRMLS data. This collaboration will enable 110,000+ users to upload, replace, edit, and distribute listing videos without relying upon a third-party video hosting platform. With WellcomeMat's additional analytic tools and resources, users can improve marketing decisions based on viewer behavior and data.

"Videos have become standard web content, and consumers expect to see them on every website and mobile app," said Art Carter, CEO of CRMLS. "It is an integral, organic extension of the MLS's value proposition to help leverage the power of property videos and remove the hassle of third-party video hosting. We look forward to working with WellcomeMat to provide our agents and brokers with easy-to-use video features and valuable data analysis."

The WellcomeMat integration offers a brand-new video toolset for CRMLS users within each of the listing Add/Edit suites they use. The CRMLS Matrix platform will feature this integration first, with CRMLS Paragon and Flexmls to follow suit.

With WellcomeMat, CRMLS users can modify their videos for optimal viewing. The embedded toolset allows users to upload, replace, or deactivate videos. It will also support easy distribution to social media and content channels, with the ability to write unique titles and descriptions for each designated outlet. The "Unbrander" tools allow users to edit out branded portions of the video to maintain MLS compliance, and the ability to add chapters to videos ensures the most important parts of videos can be found, watched, and shared.

"We are honored and humbled to be chosen by CRMLS to place video front and center for real estate agents and consumers in California," said Christian Sterner, co-founder and CEO of WellcomeMat. "Since inception, WellcomeMat has maintained that all rich media can and should be native to every real estate website and mobile application. Through our agreement with CRMLS, we are finally making true video distribution a reality in real estate and, more importantly, our partnership with CRMLS will allow us to illustrate the true ROI of video for the entire industry."

About California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS)

California Regional MLS is the nation's largest and most recognized subscriber-based MLS, dedicated to servicing more than 110,000 real estate professionals from dozens of Associations, Boards, and MLS organizations. CRMLS is the industry powerhouse and thrives on providing the most relevant products and services to its subscribers. For more information on CRMLS, visit CRMLS.org.

About WellcomeMat

WellcomeMat is maximizing media distribution and consumer reach by providing the largest library of high-quality property videos and patented technologies that help digital marketers, creatives, and developers to build the future of visual search. For more, visit WellcomeMat.com.

Contact:

Art Carter

[email protected]

SOURCE California Regional MLS
Jessica Soqui, Andrea Marin, Debbie Callarman, Pam Wugalter and Nickie Peters recognized for their dedication to channel excellence

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Logicalis US, an international IT solution and managed services provider, today announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named five of its leaders to the Women of the Channel list for 2023: Andrea Marin, Chief Financial Officer; Jessica Soqui, Vice President of Professional Services; Debbie Callarman, Senior Director of Marketing; Nickie Peters, Senior Director of Portfolio Management; and Pam Wugalter, Area Sales Director Southwest. Every year, CRN recognizes women leaders from across the IT channel for how their expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry.

Andrea Marin, Chief Financial Officer, has been named to CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list, along with the Power 80 Solution Provider list. Jessica Soqui, Vice President of Professional Services, has been named to CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list, along with the Power 80 Solution Provider list. Debbie Callarman, Senior Director of Marketing, has been named to CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list. Nickie Peters, Senior Director of Portfolio Management, has been named to CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list. Pam Wugalter, Area Sales Director Southwest, has been named to CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list.

Marin, Soqui, Callarman, Peters and Wugalter each play an integral role for Logicalis' channel strategy with their contributions across the company. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence.

In addition to being recognized on as Women of the Channel, both Marin and Soqui were also honored as part of the 2023 Women of the Channel Power 80 Solution Provider list  a subset of prominent executives selected from the overall list recognized for their exceptional insight and influence helping their companies drive channel success.

"We couldn't be happier for Andrea, Jessica, Debbie, Nickie and Pam to be recognized for the part they play every day in acting as Architects of Change for our partners and customers," said Jon Groves, CEO of Logicalis US. "The Women of the Channel award underscores the valuable role each woman has within our organization, and demonstrates the importance of fostering a diverse workplace where everyone can excel."

As Chief Financial Officer, Marin directs Logicalis US's financial strategy and is responsible for aligning with overall corporate initiatives from Logicalis Group. She is responsible for maintaining sound day-to-day fiscal management and controls, including finance, accounting, strategy, planning and forecasting in concert with the CEO and executive team.

In her role as Vice President of Professional Services, Soqui leverages her experience enabling post sales delivery and operational excellence to guide the strategy formation and execution of the Logicalis Professional Services team. In doing so, she has led the implementation of several initiatives that enabled Logicalis to exceed their revenue and growth goals.

Callarman drives marketing strategy and alignment with regional and global business units in her role as Senior Director of Marketing. Her focus on collaborating with peers across the regions drives forward the Logicalis global go-to-market strategy.

In her role as Senior Director of Marketing, Peters owns the lifecycle management of the Logicalis solution portfolio. She manages workstreams with business units in the organization that allow Logicalis employees to effectively move new and existing offerings through the process to become market-ready.

Wugalter leads sales efforts for one of the company's key growth markets in her role as Area Sales Director Southwest. She plays an instrumental part in developing relationships with strategic partners in technology areas that add tremendous value to Logicalis customers

"We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage beginning today at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn .

About Logicalis US

We are Architects of Change. We help organizations succeed in a digital-first world. At Logicalis, we harness our collective technology expertise to help our clients build a blueprint for success, so they can deliver sustainable outcomes that matter.

Our lifecycle services across cloud, connectivity, collaboration and security are designed to help optimize operations, reduce risk and empower employees.

As a global technology service provider, we deliver next-generation digital managed services, to provide our clients with real-time visibility and actionable insights across the performance of their digital ecosystem including; availability, user experience, security, economic performance and sustainability.

Our 7000+ 'Architects of Change' are based in 27 countries around the globe, helping our 10,000+ clients across a range of industry sectors, create sustainable outcomes through technology.

Logicalis has annualized revenues of $1.7 billion, from operations in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and Africa.

It is a division of Datatec Limited, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, with revenues of over $4.6 billion.

For more information visit https://us.logicalis.com

SOURCE Logicalis
Two Verinext Executives Honored Once Again for their Leadership and Dedication to Accelerating the Success of Customers and Technology Partners

PHILADELPHIA, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Verinext, the company that delivers transformative business outcomes through technology and services for everything that comes next, today announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Jackie Groark, Vice President, Security and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Wendy Goins, Vice President, Marketing, as 2023 Women of the Channel Power 80 Solution Provider  a subset of prominent executives selected from the CRN 2023 Women of the Channel list. This is Groark's fifth time, and Goins' third time, to be recognized on the respected CRN list.

The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear, turning their unique talents toward driving success for their customers and technology partners. The annual Power 80 Solution Provider list honors the most influential women in leadership at some of the country's most prominent solution providers, based on their remarkable expertise, channel advocacy and contributions to building solution provider businesses that thrive.

The women who populate the Power 80 Solution Provider list have gone above and beyond with their extraordinary commitment to the IT channel community, implementing strategies that have accelerated the success of their customers and technology partnersand the broader channel ecosystem as a result.

"The contributions both Jackie and Wendy have made to the expanding Verinext business are nothing short of exceptional," said Ashby Lincoln, President, Verinext. "Their passion and dedication have been instrumental in our evolution to become the leading provider of transformative technology so customers can trust in what's next. It's an honor to congratulate them on this well-deserved achievement."

"We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

About Verinext

Verinext delivers transformative business outcomes through technology and services so customers are ready for everything that comes next. From intelligently automating time-consuming tasks and protecting data assets to securing infrastructure and improving customer experiences, Verinext activates the innovation that makes technology truly work so businesses can make their next move with confidence. Verinext is the new name for the combination of Anexinet, Veristor, Light Networks and SereneIT. With five offices across the south and northeast, Verinext is backed by Mill Point Capital LLC. Learn more at verinext.com.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn .

 2023. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company LLC. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Verinext
PHILADELPHIA, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- D2 Capital Advisors arranged $130,000,000 in construction financing for the development of 2300 Market Street, a 223,000 square foot state-of-the-art life science project in Philadelphia's Center City West submarket being developed by Breakthrough Properties, a leading global developer of life sciences real estate backed by a joint venture between Tishman Speyer and Bellco Capital.

The construction financing was arranged by Philadelphia-based D2 Capital Advisors' Jack Cortese and David Frankel. The financing was provided by Corebridge Financial.

D2 Capital Advisors Arranges $130 Million Construction Loan for Breakthrough Properties Tweet this A rendering of Breakthrough Properties' future life sciences building at 2300 Market St. in Philadelphia.

Located in the center of the Market Street Corridor and steps from Amtrak's 30th Street Station and University of Pennsylvania, 2300 Market sits at the intersection of University City's eastward expanding life sciences district and Center City's westward expanding commercial and residential district. The trophy life science building will be 8 stories with flexible open floor plates tailored to Philadelphia's rapidly expanding life science tenant base. The site offers a purpose-built facility catered to research and development in an unmatched location with superior access to transit and amenities.

Breakthrough acquired the site in December 2021. D2 Capital Advisors consulted with Breakthrough on the site selection and served as the debt financing advisor for the project.

"D2's local expertise and market insight were extremely valuable to Breakthrough throughout both the acquisition and financing process," said Dan Belldegrun, CEO of Breakthrough Properties. "Their team's flexibility, creativity, and understanding of our business helped make it possible for us to obtain financing in this complex lending environment."

2300 Market sits in the heart of Center City West, which will benefit from roughly $1 billion of new investment between projects completed and under construction in recent years. The project will be the first purpose-built lab space in Center City and offers close proximity to University City with all the amenities of Center City.

"Having a strong established sponsor in Breakthrough Properties with experience and a track record of success was fundamental in securing financing in a very challenging credit environment" said Jack Cortese, Vice President of D2 Capital Advisors. "Breakthrough has tremendous vision, and they are capitalizing on the explosive growth already underway in Center City West which will place 2300 Market in the center of terrific lifestyle amenities for their tenants."

2300 Market will be Breakthrough's first project in Philadelphia. Other notable Breakthrough projects include The 105 by Breakthrough in Boston, home to CRISPR Therapeutics' U.S. research facility; the 10-acre Torrey View by Breakthrough campus which will house global medical technology company BD (Dickinson and Company)'s growing BD Biosciences division in San Diego; Trinity House in Oxford, England; and The Vitrum Building, located in St. John's Innovation Park in Cambridge, England.

Construction is already underway with a projected delivery for start of tenant fit-out in the summer of 2024. Hunter Roberts is serving as construction manager, KieranTimberlake is the project architect, and Cushman & Wakefield is the exclusive leasing agent.

ABOUT D2 Capital Advisors

D2 Capital Advisors is the transaction advisory affiliate of D2 Organization that arranges and structures real estate debt and equity financing for developers and investors throughout the United States.

For more information, please visit www.d2organization.com

SOURCE D2 Capital Advisors
WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dionisio Gutierrez, President of Fundacion Libertad y Desarrollo and host of the television program Razon de Estado, is among the chairs of the Freedom House 2023 Annual Awards. Along with Ms. Jane Harman and Ms. Goli Ameri, PhD. Gutierrez cordially extends the invitation to attendees at the Conrad Washington, DC, on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 6:30 p.m., to celebrate outstanding leaders who have championed freedom and democracy around the world.

Freedom House 2023 Annual Awards invite

Since 1943, the Freedom House Annual Awards have recognized exceptional individuals who have dedicated their lives to promoting freedom, human rights and democracy around the world. Recipients include Winston Churchill, Vaclav Havel, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and others.

PhD. Dionisio Gutierrez is a prominent Latin American civic and business leader who has dedicated his career to promoting the values of democracy, freedom and development in the region. Gutierrez is the first Latin American to serve on the Board of Directors of Freedom House. His civic and international media work has earned him numerous awards, including the Order of Civil Merit awarded by the King of Spain in 2014 and the "Empowerment for Democracy" award from Power Awards and the American Business Council Foundation in the United States in 2012.

The event promises to be a memorable occasion, bringing together distinguished guests from the political, business and social sectors to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable individuals.

For more information on the Freedom House 2023 Annual Awards, please click here.

Contact

https://freedomhouse.org/

SOURCE Fundacion Libertad y Desarrollo
The earned media campaign Sunshine to Spare was honored for Branded Journalism

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Discover Puerto Rico, the Island's Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), won PRovoke Media's North America SABRE Award for its "Sunshine to Spare" campaign - in the practice area category Branded Journalism. This campaign sought to bottle the Island's most famous attribute, the sunshine.

The NA SABRE Awards recognize Superior Achievement in Branding Reputation and Engagement. This year's entries were focused on engagement, credibility, and relationship building.

"We are honored and excited to receive this recognition for our "Sunshine to Spare" initiative. It is a testament to an original approach to travel marketing that captured Puerto Rico Sunshine's irresistible and unforgettable hue," said Leah Chandler, Chief Marketing Officer of Discover Puerto Rico. "No destination has ever attempted to entice travel by branding its own sunshine, and in doing so, not only sparked interest in the Island, but also pride in the Boricua community who were ecstatic to have their own Pantone color."

Through scientific models, extensive calculations factoring in the light and color produced by the sun and how it interacts with the atmosphere surrounding the Island, Puerto Rican physicist, Dr. Hector J. Jimenez identified the exact hue of the sunlight as it shines over the Island  a unique, rich, red-orange hue.

To help bring the color to life, Discover Puerto Rico partnered with Pantone Color Institute to create the official certified color, Puerto Rico Sunshine. The new color ignited a fresh and provocative travel conversation through a multi-phased approach, which included:

ECOS Paints - Developed a vibrant wall paint available for purchase to revitalize an existing space or create an eye-catching accent wall

- Developed a vibrant wall paint available for purchase to revitalize an existing space or create an eye-catching accent wall Christian Cowan x NYFW - Collaborated with fashion designer Christian Cowan for his New York Fashion Week Show 2022, to launch a line in dazzling Puerto Rico sunshine.

- Collaborated with fashion designer for his New York Fashion Week Show 2022, to launch a line in dazzling sunshine. Sunshine Shop - Identified local products and crafts to produce and sell in the new color, allowing consumers/travelers to experience it, and support the Island's business economy.

- Identified local products and crafts to produce and sell in the new color, allowing consumers/travelers to experience it, and support the Island's business economy. Sunshine Route - Today, visitors to the Island can access an interactive digital map to guide them to "can't miss" Instagram locations to experience the full effects of Puerto Rico Sunshine  especially at sunrise and sunset

With no passport, currency exchange, or international phone plan required for U.S. citizens, Puerto Rico is the perfect place for a combination of unparalleled cultural experiences, breathtaking beaches, world-class culinary delights, natural wonders, and thrilling adventures  all under the remarkable Puerto Rico sunshine.

For more information about the destination, follow Discover Puerto Rico's social channels on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and visit DiscoverPuertoRico.com.

About Discover Puerto Rico:

Discover Puerto Rico is a private, not-for-profit Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) whose mission is to make Puerto Rico visible to the world as a premier travel destination. The DMO brings prosperity to the people of Puerto Rico by collaboratively promoting the Island's diversity and uniqueness for leisure and business travel, and events. It is responsible for all global marketing, sales, and promotion of the destination and works collaboratively with key local governmental and non-governmental players throughout Puerto Rico's visitor economy and the community at large, to empower economic growth. To discover all the beauty the Island has to offer, visit DiscoverPuertoRico.com .

SOURCE Discover Puerto Rico
DOVE Chocolate spotlights moms and mother-figures on social, encouraging nominations to honor loved ones with a special treat

NEWARK, N.J., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, DOVE Chocolate, proudly part of the Mars family of brands, unveiled a new initiative encouraging everyone to help honor and uplift mothers and mom figures across their DOVE Instagram page.

Leading up to Mothers Day, DOVE Chocolate will celebrate moms and mother figures to win a feature on the DOVE Chocolate Instagram channel and an uplifting spa day, complete with DOVE Chocolate PROMISES.

Leading up to Mother's Day, moms will be the star of DOVE Chocolate's Instagram channel through content, comments of appreciation and reposts of love and admiration. The brand is asking followers to post a picture of a beloved mom or mom figure and share uplifting messages on how they have positively impacted their lives to celebrate Mother's Day. Moms can be entered for the chance to win a feature on the DOVE Chocolate Instagram channel and a self-care day complete with DOVE Chocolate Promises and a spa day. Entrants should tag @DoveChocolate, their mom or mom figure and include #DoveChocolateMOMents, now through Friday, May 12th.

"DOVE Chocolate has a long-standing history of supporting women both globally with our CARE partnership as well as in the U.S. with our DOVE InstaGrants program empowering entrepreneurs," said Martin Terwilliger, Senior Director, Mars Wrigley. "Mother's Day is another reason to uplift and celebrate women for the endless amount of care they show others, and to empower moms to prioritize self-care this week and beyond."

Since 2016, DOVE Chocolate has supported and partnered with the international humanitarian organization CARE to help improve the livelihoods of women in cocoa growing communities through increased access to savings, loans and other income generating support. Together with CARE, DOVE developed a Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLA) model, designed to economically empower women by promoting financial inclusion and innovation. Today, VSLAs are now operating in 88 communities in Cote d'Ivoire and Ghana, and 75% of the VSLA members are women. DOVE Chocolate created the InstaGrants program to bring the spirit of our work in West Africa to life by uplifting, celebrating and empowering women entrepreneurs throughout the country.

For more information, visit www.dovechocolate.com, or visit the brand on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok .

ABOUT MARS, INCORPORATED

Mars, Incorporated is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, Mars is transforming, innovating, and evolving to make a positive impact on the world.

Across our diverse and expanding portfolio of quality confectionery, food, and pet care products and services, we employ 140,000+ dedicated Associates. With almost $45 billion in annual sales, we produce some of the world's best-loved brands including Ben's Original, CESAR, Cocoavia, DOVE, EXTRA, KIND, M&M's, SNICKERS, PEDIGREE, ROYAL CANIN, and WHISKAS. We are creating a better world for pets through our global network of pet hospitals and diagnostic services  including AniCura, BANFIELD, BLUEPEARL, Linnaeus and VCA  using cutting edge technology to develop breakthrough programs in genetic health screening and DNA testing.

For more information about Mars, please visit www.mars.com . Join us on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , LinkedIn and YouTube .

SOURCE Mars Wrigley
dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok, ASAI Bangkok Sathorn, and ASAI Kyoto Shijo are all set to open within the next month.

BANGKOK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dusit Hotels and Resorts under Dusit International, one of Thailand's leading hotel and property development companies, is set to expand its global and domestic footprint by opening three hotels within the next 30 days  including two new properties in Bangkok and its first hotel in Japan.

ASAI Bangkok Sathorn continues the brands promise to uniquely link visitors with authentic local experiences.

Hot on the heels of opening its first hotel in Europe, in Greece, and returning to Nairobi, Kenya, in March, with the opening of Dusit Suites Athens and Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi, respectively, Dusit is now gearing up to welcome its first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok  dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok  which will soft open on 12 May 2023.

Located on Si Phraya Road, a vibrant street parallel to Silom and Sathorn roads in Bangkok's central business district, the new hotel comprises 179 well-appointed guest rooms and boasts a sleek, modern design that reflects Thai culture and embodies the upscale nature of the dusitD2 brand.

The hotel's wide range of facilities includes a stylish lobby, a fully equipped fitness centre, a versatile meeting space with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, an outdoor swimming pool with a panoramic city view, and a multi-level food and beverage concept featuring a grab-and-go gourmet outlet, an all-day dining restaurant with an open kitchen, and a Miami-inspired rooftop bar called Mimi serving burgers, shakes, craft beers, and cocktails.

Up next, on 15 May 2023, Dusit will mark the official expansion of its distinctive lifestyle brand, ASAI Hotels, by opening ASAI Bangkok Sathorn on Sathorn Soi 12 near Bangkok's central business district, just a five-minute walk from Saint Louis BTS (Skytrain) Station.

Building on the success of ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, one of the top-rated hotels in Bangkok on TripAdvisor, the new hotel will continue the brand's promise to uniquely link visitors with authentic local experiences in the world's most vibrant neighbourhoods  this one renowned for its impressive cluster of hip bars and Thai and international restaurants.

Alongside 106 thoughtfully compact rooms that focus on the essentials, such as highly comfortable beds and powerful showers, the new property boasts a spacious and welcoming communal space that features a cosy neighbourhood bar, a comfortable co-working area, and a unique dining experience created by award-winning chefs Duangporn "Bo" Songvisava and Dylan Jones, who specialise in authentic Thai cuisine crafted from seasonal and sustainable ingredients.

On 1 June 2023, Dusit will then take the ASAI brand outside of Thailand with the opening of ASAI Kyoto Shijo  Dusit's first hotel in Japan  which puts guests in the heart of the Shijo-Karasuma neighbourhood, near the famous Nishiki Market in the city's renowned Downtown area.

Alongside 114 thoughtfully compact rooms designed to offer utmost comfort and convenience, the hotel will feature a large communal hub for work, rest, and play, and a cosy dining room inspired by the rich street-food culture of Bangkok. Regular collaborations with local restaurateurs and artisans and sustainable sourcing of produce will further set the distinctive lifestyle hotel apart.

"As we continue to execute our plan for domestic and global expansion, we are delighted to welcome three new hotels to our portfolio, including our first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok, our second ASAI hotel in Bangkok, and our first hotel in Japan," said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. "These openings represent significant milestones for our company, and we are confident that their unique positioning and distinctive lifestyle and food and beverage experiences will resonate with travellers from around the world. As we gear up for these launches, we are excited about the future and look forward to making our mark in more key international markets."

With an additional nine hotels set to open globally before the end of the year, including Dusit's first entry into Nepal, a second hotel in Japan, and a strategic return to India, Dusit is set to add approximately 1,700 keys to its hotel portfolio, resulting in 62 hotels (13,700 keys) operating across 18 countries worldwide by year-end.

More details about dusitD2 Samyan Bangkok, ASAI Bangkok Sathorn, and ASAI Kyoto Shijo and their respective opening offers can be found at the following links:

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group's portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of seven brands (Dusit Thani, Dusit Devarana, Dusit Suites, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 17 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International's diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

For more information, please visit dusit-international.com.

Images can be downloaded via medialib.dusit.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2071533/ASAI_Bangkok_Sathorn_continues_the_brand_s_promise_to_uniquely_link_visitors_with_authentic_local_ex.jpg

SOURCE Dusit International
LOS ANGELES, May 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE: EW) today announced new data from the COMMENCE aortic trial, demonstrating low rates of structural valve deterioration (SVD) in bioprosthetic aortic valves with the company's innovative RESILIA tissue. The data, which represent the longest clinical follow-up for Edwards' bioprosthetic surgical aortic valve with RESILIA tissue with a mean follow-up of 7.7 years, were presented today at the 103rd annual meeting of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery.

SVD can be caused by a buildup of calcium that may impact long-term durability of bioprosthetic valves. Heart valves with RESILIA tissue are designed to address calcification challenges of conventional tissue valves, potentially allowing valves with RESILIA to last longer. The RESILIA tissue data from the COMMENCE aortic trial reported encouraging results with low rates of SVD (99.3% freedom from SVD), clinically stable gradients and freedom from reoperation (97.2%) through seven years.

"As bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement extends to younger and more active patients, valve durability is becoming increasingly important," said Thomas Beaver, M.D., Grant and Shirle Herron Chair, Professor and Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Florida College of Medicine. "The seven-year data from the COMMENCE aortic trial demonstrates strong clinical outcomes and excellent durability in a study of younger patients with a mean age of 65.1 years."

Current technologies utilizing this novel tissue include the INSPIRIS RESILIA aortic valve, the KONECT RESILIA aortic valved conduit, the MITRIS RESILIA mitral valve and the SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA transcatheter aortic heart valve. In addition to its anti-calcification properties, RESILIA tissue also allows the valve to be stored under dry packaging conditions, facilitating ease of use in the operating room.

"Edwards Lifesciences is committed to addressing the needs of patients with structural heart disease and our RESILIA tissue technology is designed for enhanced durability, supporting patients' improved quality of life," said Larry Wood, Edwards' corporate vice president and group president, transcatheter aortic valve replacement and surgical structural heart. "The latest COMMENCE aortic trial data emphasizes the value of RESILIA tissue-based offerings in helping patients and their physicians with lifetime management of valve disease."

The latest data from the COMMENCE aortic trial join a growing library of clinical studies in support of RESILIA tissue.

The COMMENCE aortic trial is a prospective, non-randomized, multicenter, single-arm investigational device exemption (IDE) trial comprised of 689 patients at 27 clinical sites across the United States and Europe. The trial is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of Edwards' bioprosthetic aortic valve with RESILIA tissue in patients ages 18 and older with diagnosed aortic valve disease and scheduled to undergo aortic valve replacement surgery. Long-term follow-up data were collected in a subset of these patients and will continue to be evaluated through 10 years.

For more information about RESILIA tissue, please visit the RESILIA tissue newsroom at edwards.com/about-us/resilia-newsroom.

Dr. Beaver is a consultant to Edwards Lifesciences.

About Edwards Lifesciences

Edwards Lifesciences is the global leader of patient-focused innovations for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring. We are driven by a passion for patients, dedicated to improving and enhancing lives through partnerships with clinicians and stakeholders across the global healthcare landscape. For more information, visit Edwards.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements made by Mr. Wood and statements regarding expected product benefits, patient outcomes, post-treatment reduction of invasive procedures, objectives and expectations and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by management of the company and are believed to be reasonable, though they are inherently uncertain and difficult to predict. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statement. Investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements based on a number of factors as detailed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings, along with important safety information about our products, may be found at Edwards.com.

Edwards, Edwards Lifesciences, and the stylized E logo, COMMENCE, INSPIRIS, INSPIRIS RESILIA, KONECT, KONECT RESILIA, MITRIS, MITRIS RESILIA, SAPIEN and RESILIA are trademarks and service marks of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Everett Stern, former US Senate candidate, author and Intelligence Director of Tactical Rabbit will hold a press conference on the steps of the New York Public Library, at 5th Avenue and 42 Street in New York City at 4pm EST to release other damaging allegations against the former head of FBI counterintelligence Charles McGonigal.

Everett Stern

McGonigal is charged by the US Department of Justice, Southern District of New York with money laundering and conspiring to commit money laundering for Oleg Deripaska, a sanctioned Russian oligarch. McGonigal is accused of receiving payments through shell companies and forging signatures in order to keep it a secret that Deripaska was paying him.

McGonigal is charged separately in Washington, D.C., with taking money from an Albanian intelligence agent while still at the FBI.

Stern was introduced to McGonigal in 2018 during a second investigation into HSBC bank for sanction violations and money laundering. Stern was commissioned with seeking additional intelligence information, and McGonigal was his point of contact. "I have good reasons to believe this second investigation of HSBC bank was squashed by McGonigal," said Stern, "and I believe that this started much earlier in 2015," he added.

In 2015, Stern was approached to track down a diamond stolen from Oleg Deripaska by a close colleague of McGonigal and former FBI agent who has also been arrested and charged with conspiracy and other charges.

"This is only the tip of the iceberg," said Stern.

For more Information go to:

https://twitter.com/EverettStern1

Or fill out the contact form on:

Evererettstern.com

Or TacticalRabbit.com

SOURCE Everett Stern
Leading U.S. Brunch Franchise is Expanding Their Corporate Owned Footprint in North Carolina

CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Famous Toastery, a 25-unit better brunch franchise brand known for its "Famously Fresh" menu, is celebrating its newest restaurant opening in Charlotte. Located at 7741 Colony Rd. in Charlotte, NC, the new restaurant will offer a memorable brunch experience for the community to enjoy.

Famous Toastery's newest location is owned and operated by the brand's corporate team. This will be the 8th corporately owned restaurant. The new eatery will be open 7 days a week from 7am-3pm, offering a variety of breakfast, lunch, and cocktail menu options to guests. The new location will also have catering, to-go ordering, and third-party delivery available.

"Opening our eighth corporate owned Famous Toastery restaurant in the Charlotte area is an exciting milestone for our team," said Mike Sebazco, President of Famous Toastery. "We love interacting with the local Charlotte community and look forward to becoming more involved with our guests as we continue to grow."

Famous Toastery is celebrating their grand opening with special offers that will be available to guests throughout the week, including exclusive opportunities such as:

The chance to win free brunch for a week

The opportunity to create and name a "Famously Fresh" cocktail that will be served exclusively at the new location

Founded in 2005 in Huntersville, NC, best friends Brian Burchill and Robert Maynard opened a breakfast restaurant in a small house where fresh ingredients and comfortable atmosphere were center stage. In 2013, the restaurant brand evolved into a franchise still focused on fresh, high-quality ingredients and with a special focus on attentive service.

Famous Toastery not only owns brunch, it makes it Famous: The brand believes food should be both decadent and nutritious, uncompromisingly fresh, and served to order quickly with service that is just as satisfying as the menu. With an emphasis on perfecting classic breakfast items and injecting fun in beverages, Famous Toastery prides itself for serving up a fresh, made-from-scratch and craveable breakfast and brunch menu in a welcoming atmosphere.

Its "Famously Fresh" menu features a bevy of brunch favorites like omelets, pancakes, waffles, stuffed French toast, benedicts, plus an array of sandwiches, burgers, wraps and salads. Famous Toastery offers nitrate free oven-roasted turkeys made in-house, and breakfast potatoes that are prepared fresh each morning. In addition to its mouth-watering breakfast and lunch fare, Famous Toastery also boasts a beverage line of specialty coffees and alcoholic brunch cocktails, like mimosas, Bloody Mary's, bellinis and Irish Coffees. As a perfect destination for anyone who appreciates delicious, home-style cooking, the restaurant's menu consists of inclusive recipes expertly crafted with the freshest ingredients, such as 100% grade A pure maple syrup and freshly-squeezed orange juice.

Today, Famous Toastery operates in three different states, has six locations in development, projects to have 26 locations operating by the end of 2023, as well as aggressive growth plans including a four-store deal in Northeast Florida. The brand aims to bring brunch, enjoyable hospitality, and community under one roof to other markets in the country with the help new and existing franchise owners. With an emphasis on perfecting classic breakfast and lunch items and injecting fun in beverages, Famous Toastery not only owns brunch, it makes it famous.

For more information about Famous Toastery, visit www.famoustoastery.com. To learn about franchising opportunities, please visit www.bestbreakfastfranchise.com.

ABOUT FAMOUS TOASTERY

Charlotte, N.C. based Famous Toastery is a breakfast, brunch and lunch franchise that encourages its guests, team and franchise owners to "Be Famous" in their local community by offering "Famously Fresh" meals and a much-needed hub for friends, families and neighbors to get together in a comfortable atmosphere where "every server is your server." The brand began in 2005 before evolving into a franchise system in 2013 and growing to over 25 locations today. In 2020 and 2019, Famous Toastery placed on Restaurant Business' The Future 50, featuring the fastest-growing small chains. Famous Toastery was ranked No. 9 in the Full-Service Restaurants category of Entrepreneur Magazine's Top Food Franchises of 2019 and on Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 Rankings in 2019 and 2022. In 2018, Famous Toastery received recognition by CNBC as a top franchise to buy, FSR Magazine as one of the Top 14 restaurant chains ready for lift-off, Inc. 5000's list of the fastest growing companies and Franchise Times' Top 200+ franchise opportunities. For more information about Famous Toastery, visit www.famoustoastery.com. To learn about franchising opportunities, please visit www.bestbreakfastfranchise.com.

SOURCE Famous Toastery
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The freight logistics market is estimated to grow by USD 319.65 million from 2022 to 2027. However, the growth momentum will progress at a CAGR of 5.74% during the forecast period. The market is segmented by Type (Road, Maritime, Rail, and Air), End-user (Manufacturing, Automotive, Consumer goods, Food and beverage, and Others), and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America). The market share growth by the road segment will be significant for the market growth during the forecast period. The paid process of carrying goods, cargo, and other things from one location to another using wheeled vehicles is known as freight transportation with the road being the largest segment of the global market and will continue to remain the same during the forecast period. Increasing outsourcing in logistics is a major driver for the market growth. The companies working on logistics are projected to invest more in digital and analytic technologies during the forecast period. It becomes increasingly difficult to differentiate between logistics companies from technology providers as they provide both logistics services to end-users and also use technology to provide better solutions for warehouse management, procurement, and other operational applications in the supply chain. Download a Sample Report in minutes!

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Freight Logistics Market 2023-2027

Information Services Market Insights -

Vendors : 15+, Including Agility Public Warehousing Co. K.S.C.P, C H Robinson Worldwide Inc., CJ Logistics Corp., CMA CGM SA, Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, Dimerco Express Corp., DSV AS, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corp., Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG, Kerry Logistics Network Ltd., Kuehne Nagel Management AG, Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC, Manitoulin Group of Companies, Nippon Express Holdings Inc., Transporteca Aps, Uber Technologies Inc, United Parcel Service Inc., and Bollore SE, among others.

: 15+, Including Agility Public Warehousing Co. K.S.C.P, C H Robinson Worldwide Inc., CJ Logistics Corp., CMA CGM SA, Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, Dimerco Express Corp., DSV AS, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corp., Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG, Kerry Logistics Network Ltd., Kuehne Nagel Management AG, Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC, Manitoulin Group of Companies, Nippon Express Holdings Inc., Transporteca Aps, Uber Technologies Inc, United Parcel Service Inc., and Bollore SE, among others. Coverage: Parent market analysis; key drivers, major trends, and challenges; customer and vendor landscape; vendor product insights and recent developments; key vendors; and market positioning of vendors

Parent market analysis; key drivers, major trends, and challenges; customer and vendor landscape; vendor product insights and recent developments; key vendors; and market positioning of vendors Segments: Type (Road, Maritime, Rail, and Air), End-user (Manufacturing, Automotive, Consumer goods, Food and beverage, and Others), and Geography (APAC, North America , Europe , Middle East and Africa , and South America )

To understand more about the information services market, request a sample report

Freight logistics market - Vendor Insights

The growing competition in the market is compelling vendors to adopt various growth strategies such as promotional activities and spending on advertisements to improve the visibility of their services. Technavio report analyzes the market's competitive landscape and offers information on several market vendors including Agility Public Warehousing Co. K.S.C.P, C H Robinson Worldwide Inc., CJ Logistics Corp., CMA CGM SA, Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, Dimerco Express Corp., DSV AS, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corp., Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG, Kerry Logistics Network Ltd., Kuehne Nagel Management AG, Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC, Manitoulin Group of Companies, Nippon Express Holdings Inc., Transporteca Aps, Uber Technologies Inc, United Parcel Service Inc., and Bollore SE.

Freight Logistics Market  Market Dynamics

Major Trends -

The growing popularity of multimodal transportation is an emerging trend in the freight logistics market. Multiple modes of transportation are used by both intermodal and multimodal transportation but intermodal and multimodal are two different modes of transportation. Multimodal transportation is under a single contract, whereas intermodal transportation has multiple contracts with different carriers. Moreover, in a multimodal procedure, a single transport carrier is responsible for moving shipments in all different modes. Hence, such factors drive the market growth during the forecast period.

Key challenges -

High infrastructure costs are a major challenge hindering market growth. To ship goods through intermodal transportation, a high investment in infrastructure is required, including the installation of gantry cranes and other heavy-duty cranes necessary to lift the containers at different ports while changing the mode of transport. For instance, whenever the container arrives at a seaport, it needs to be transferred on either a flatbed, rail, or truck. Hence, such challenges impede the market growth during the forecast period.

Drivers & Challenges have an impact on market dynamics and can impact businesses. Find some insights from a sample report!

The freight logistics market report provides critical information and factual data, with a qualitative and quantitative study of the market based on market drivers and limitations as well as future prospects.

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What are the key data covered in this Freight Logistics Market report?

CAGR of the market during the forecast period

Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the Freight Logistics Market between 2023 and 2027

Precise estimation of the size of the Freight Logistics Market and its contribution to the market with a focus on the parent market

Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

Growth of the Freight Logistics Market across APAC, North America , Europe , Middle East and Africa , and South America

, , and , 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 Freight Logistics Market vendors

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Related Reports:

The rail freight transportation market in North America is estimated to decline at a CAGR of 7.47% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to decrease by USD 42.88 billion. This report extensively covers market segmentation by end-user (petroleum and chemical, coal, metals and minerals, agriculture products, and others), mode of transportation (freight cars, tank wagons, and intermodals), and geography (US, Canada, and Mexico). The low transportation cost of freight is notably driving the market growth.

The rail freight transportation market size in Europe is expected to increase by USD 5.29 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 1.36%. Furthermore, this report extensively covers rail freight transportation market in Europe segmentations by area (international and domestic) and geography (Germany, Poland, France, Italy, and Rest of Europe). The increasing investments in the market is notably driving the rail freight transportation market growth in Europe.

Freight Logistics Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 5.74% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 319.65 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 5.38 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 43% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and France Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Agility Public Warehousing Co. K.S.C.P, C H Robinson Worldwide Inc., CJ Logistics Corp., CMA CGM SA, Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, Dimerco Express Corp., DSV AS, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corp., Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG, Kerry Logistics Network Ltd., Kuehne Nagel Management AG, Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC, Manitoulin Group of Companies, Nippon Express Holdings Inc., Transporteca Aps, Uber Technologies Inc, United Parcel Service Inc., and Bollore SE 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 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 Type



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 freight logistics market 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size  Data Table on Global freight logistics market 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.2 Type Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size  Type 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 Type

6.1 Market segments

Exhibit 30: Chart on Type - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Type - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

6.2 Comparison by Type

Exhibit 32: Chart on Comparison by Type



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Comparison by Type

6.3 Road - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 34: Chart on Road - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Road - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 36: Chart on Road - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 37: Data Table on Road - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.4 Maritime - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 38: Chart on Maritime - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Maritime - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 40: Chart on Maritime - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Maritime - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.5 Rail - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 42: Chart on Rail - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on Rail - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 44: Chart on Rail - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on Rail - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.6 Air - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 46: Chart on Air - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 47: Data Table on Air - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 48: Chart on Air - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 49: Data Table on Air - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.7 Market opportunity by Type

Exhibit 50: Market opportunity by Type ($ million)

7 Market Segmentation by End-user

7.1 Market segments

Exhibit 51: Chart on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 52: Data Table on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

7.2 Comparison by End-user

Exhibit 53: Chart on Comparison by End-user



Exhibit 54: Data Table on Comparison by End-user

7.3 Manufacturing - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 55: Chart on Manufacturing - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 56: Data Table on Manufacturing - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 57: Chart on Manufacturing - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 58: Data Table on Manufacturing - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.4 Automotive - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 59: Chart on Automotive - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 60: Data Table on Automotive - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 61: Chart on Automotive - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 62: Data Table on Automotive - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.5 Consumer goods - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 63: Chart on Consumer goods - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 64: Data Table on Consumer goods - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 65: Chart on Consumer goods - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 66: Data Table on Consumer goods - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.6 Food and beverage - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 67: Chart on Food and beverage - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 68: Data Table on Food and beverage - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 69: Chart on Food and beverage - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 70: Data Table on Food and beverage - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.7 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 71: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 72: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 73: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 74: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.8 Market opportunity by End-user

Exhibit 75: Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)

8 Customer Landscape

8.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 76: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

9 Geographic Landscape

9.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 77: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 78: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)

9.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 79: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 80: Data Table on Geographic comparison

9.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 81: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 82: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 83: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 84: 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 85: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 86: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 87: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 88: 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 89: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 90: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 91: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 92: Data Table on Europe - 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 93: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 94: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 95: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 96: 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 97: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 98: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 99: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 100: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.8 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 101: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 102: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 103: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 104: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.9 China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 105: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 106: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 107: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 108: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.10 Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 109: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 110: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 111: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 112: 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 113: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 114: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 115: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 116: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.12 France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 117: Chart on France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 118: Data Table on France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 119: Chart on France - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 120: Data Table on France - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 121: 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 122: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027

10.4 Market trends

11 Vendor Landscape

11.1 Overview

11.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 123: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

11.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 124: Overview on factors of disruption

11.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 125: Impact of key risks on business

12 Vendor Analysis

12.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 126: Vendors covered

12.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 127: Matrix on vendor position and classification

12.3 Bollore SE

Exhibit 128: Bollore SE - Overview



Exhibit 129: Bollore SE - Business segments



Exhibit 130: Bollore SE - Key offerings



Exhibit 131: Bollore SE - Segment focus

12.4 CMA CGM SA

Exhibit 132: CMA CGM SA - Overview



Exhibit 133: CMA CGM SA - Business segments



Exhibit 134: CMA CGM SA - Key news



Exhibit 135: CMA CGM SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 136: CMA CGM SA - Segment focus

12.5 Deutsche Bahn AG

Exhibit 137: Deutsche Bahn AG - Overview



Exhibit 138: Deutsche Bahn AG - Business segments



Exhibit 139: Deutsche Bahn AG - Key offerings



Exhibit 140: Deutsche Bahn AG - Segment focus

12.6 Deutsche Post AG

Exhibit 141: Deutsche Post AG - Overview



Exhibit 142: Deutsche Post AG - Business segments



Exhibit 143: Deutsche Post AG - Key news



Exhibit 144: Deutsche Post AG - Key offerings



Exhibit 145: Deutsche Post AG - Segment focus

12.7 Dimerco Express Corp.

Exhibit 146: Dimerco Express Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 147: Dimerco Express Corp. - Product / Service



Exhibit 148: Dimerco Express Corp. - Key offerings

12.8 DSV AS

Exhibit 149: DSV AS - Overview



Exhibit 150: DSV AS - Business segments



Exhibit 151: DSV AS - Key offerings



Exhibit 152: DSV AS - Segment focus

12.9 Expeditors International of Washington Inc.

Exhibit 153: Expeditors International of Washington Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 154: Expeditors International of Washington Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 155: Expeditors International of Washington Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 156: Expeditors International of Washington Inc. - Segment focus

12.10 FedEx Corp.

Exhibit 157: FedEx Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 158: FedEx Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 159: FedEx Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 160: FedEx Corp. - Segment focus

12.11 Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG

Exhibit 161: Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG - Overview



Exhibit 162: Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG - Product / Service



Exhibit 163: Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE and Co KG - Key offerings

12.12 Kuehne Nagel Management AG

Exhibit 164: Kuehne Nagel Management AG - Overview



Exhibit 165: Kuehne Nagel Management AG - Business segments



Exhibit 166: Kuehne Nagel Management AG - Key offerings



Exhibit 167: Kuehne Nagel Management AG - Segment focus

12.13 Manitoulin Group of Companies

Exhibit 168: Manitoulin Group of Companies - Overview



Exhibit 169: Manitoulin Group of Companies - Product / Service



Exhibit 170: Manitoulin Group of Companies - Key offerings

12.14 Nippon Express Holdings Inc.

Exhibit 171: Nippon Express Holdings Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 172: Nippon Express Holdings Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 173: Nippon Express Holdings Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 174: Nippon Express Holdings Inc. - Segment focus

12.15 Transporteca Aps

Exhibit 175: Transporteca Aps - Overview



Exhibit 176: Transporteca Aps - Product / Service



Exhibit 177: Transporteca Aps - Key offerings

12.16 Uber Technologies Inc

Exhibit 178: Uber Technologies Inc - Overview



Exhibit 179: Uber Technologies Inc - Business segments



Exhibit 180: Uber Technologies Inc - Key offerings



Exhibit 181: Uber Technologies Inc - Segment focus

12.17 United Parcel Service Inc.

Exhibit 182: United Parcel Service Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 183: United Parcel Service Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 184: United Parcel Service Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 185: United Parcel Service Inc. - Segment focus

13 Appendix

13.1 Scope of the report

13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 186: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 187: Exclusions checklist

13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 188: Currency conversion rates for US$

13.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 189: Research methodology



Exhibit 190: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 191: Information sources

13.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 192: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

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Jesse Maida

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Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
The new collaboration is in line with the commitment of both institutions to bring genomic medicine closer to the general population.

MADRID, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Genetiks, a pioneering laboratory in Turkey in the field of genetics, and Veritas, a letsgetchecked group company focused on genome and exome sequencing and clinical interpretation, enter into a collaboration agreement to expand the Turkish laboratory's preventive and perinatal medicine portfolio.

The agreement is focused on two main areas, perinatal medicine and preventive medicine. Regarding the first one, Genetiks will incorporate the Pregnancy Loss test -for genomic analysis in spontaneous miscarriage- and myNewborn, a pioneering neonatal genomic screening for the detection of 390 diseases of genetic origin that can affect the baby in early childhood. In the field of preventive medicine, Genetiks will begin to offer myGenome (the most complete preventive genetic service, based on complete genome sequencing and its clinical interpretation) and myHealthScore, a polygenic risk test focused on the risk of oncological, cardiovascular or metabolic pathology.

About Genetiks

Genetiks has been dedicated to contributing to the latest scientific studies to develop effective preventive and therapeutic methods for genetic diseases since 2006. We transfer cutting-edge technologies to patients in over 16 countries, and our high-quality, reliable services specialize in reprogenetics, PGT, postnatal genetic tests, and oncogenetics (OnkoGenetiks), using the latest ethical standards to identify genetic diseases.

We understand the challenges clinicians and patients face with rare genetic diseases. To address this, we collaborate with leading institutions worldwide and monitor technology developments to remain at the forefront of the field. Patient rights are always a top priority, and we provide reliable and effective solutions for genetic testing needs through continuous quality improvement.

https://www.genetiks.com.tr/en

About Veritas

At Veritas, we apply science and our global resources to bring genetic and genomic diagnostics to people to extend and significantly improve their lives. Our global portfolio includes preventive medicine, perinatal medicine, and genomic diagnostic services.

In March 2022 Veritas announced that it was becoming part of LetsGetChecked, a global healthcare solutions company based in Dublin and New York.

In keeping with our responsibility as a leading biotechnology company, we collaborate with healthcare providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to genetic and genomic medicine reliably and affordably around the world.

https://www.veritasint.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2001152/Veritas_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Veritas
--CancerVision designed to democratize fast, affordable cancer analysis and diagnosis with broadened access to complete genomic information--

--Company opened San Diego-based corporate headquarters--

SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Genome Insight, a leading precision medicine and genomics company, announced today the U.S. launch of CancerVision, their innovative whole genome sequencing (WGS) test designed to provide accurate, timely and medically meaningful insights that collectively guide personalized healthcare decisions. The company also announced the opening of their corporate headquarters located in San Diego, California.

"Currently, physicians at major medical centers typically rely on targeted genomic panels to inform decisions, but that data is often incomplete," said Dr. Young Seok Ju, Founder and Chief Genomics Officer of Genome Insight. "Up to this point, WGS has not been a viable option for cancer diagnosis because the data are too big, complex and expensive. Our advanced bioinformatics, computational analysis and medical expertise summarizes detailed cancer genome information in digestible and actionable ways for patients and physicians, translating a once distant technology into a powerful, user-friendly resource across cancer patient populations and changing the paradigm when it comes to evaluating the best treatment path forward."

CancerVision combines state-of-the-art proprietary bioinformatics and computational sequencing of individual patient cancer samples to determine whole genome mutational profiles which are then analyzed and curated for physicians in an easy-to-use format that captures and prioritizes the most relevant and actionable insights, enabling timely decision-making including:

Genetic variations, including point mutations, structural variations, and gene fusions, linked to FDA-approved treatments

Additional genomic findings associated with personalized treatment approaches

Applicable clinical trials to assist with future steps

Complete access to tumor mutational burden, mutational signature, and inherited germline polymorphisms to enhance the decision-making process

The ability to understand an individual's complete cancer genome is contingent on pinpointing previously unidentified mutations that are critical to optimize treatment, yet current targeted sequencing methods can only confirm known cancer mutations from previous cohorts. Additionally, panel designs are specific to each research institution and biased to common cancer types, which leads to variability in testing and access limitations for those not living near major cancer centers or with rare, atypical cancer types. Genome Insight's model enables a more unbiased genome sequencing not reliant on specific panels that also democratizes access broadly to community physicians everywhere. The advanced bioinformatics and computational power enable results at a fraction of the speed and cost previously possible.

"We are an organization of medical doctors with computational know-how that enables us to harness this incredibly important data for real-time, real-world application for cancer patients and beyond," said Jehee Suh, Chief Executive Officer of Genome Insight. "Our goal is to sequence genomic data for one million cancer patients, progressing our understanding of cancer for improved patient outcomes."

The U.S. launch comes on the heels of data presented at the American Association of Cancer Research 2023 annual meeting in which CancerVision demonstrated a more thorough analysis of specific genetic mutations in breast cancers than traditional BRCA gene testing and a recently announced collaboration with Ultima Genomics combining the company's proprietary bioinformatics with Ultima Genomics' low-cost sequencing to make WGS an affordable reality for cancer patients.

Following CancerVision, Genome Insight intends to expand testing to genomic based therapeutic areas beyond cancer, including rare disease.

About CancerVision

CancerVision was designed to empower healthcare providers with the information necessary to make informed decisions tailored to an individual's unique genomic profile. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) provides a more complete view (>99%) of a cancer's genetic make-up than any other test currently available, including targeted panels and whole exome testing. CancerVision can provide detailed information about genomic mutations and other biomarkers that may be driving a patient's cancer. This information can support healthcare providers in identifying potential treatment approaches, such as targeted therapies and clinical trials, tailored to an individual's specific cancer type and genetic makeup.

About Genome Insight

Genome Insight is a precision medicine whole genome platform company with the goal to accelerate the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment for cancer and rare diseases. Genome Insight's proprietary platform is an automated WGS pipeline coupled with a bioinformatics-powered digital solution that rapidly generates meaningful medical insights, making it possible to use WGS in real-life clinical settings. Furthermore, this platform is applied in the research setting to advance novel therapeutic strategies in cancer and rare diseases. The company's headquarters is in San Diego (US) with offices in Korea (Seoul and Daejeon) and Hong Kong. To learn more, please visit www.genomeinsight.net

SOURCE Genome Insight
LANDOVER, Md., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Giant Food, the leading greater Washington, D.C. regional grocery chain, today announces a donation of $100,370 that will support local farmers located throughout the greater Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region through a partnership with the American Farmland Trust's (AFT) Brighter Future Fund.

From April 7 through April 27 of 2023, Giant customers were given the option to round up their grocery purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout to contribute to the funding. This donation will be allocated to help six local farmers improve farm viability, access, transfer or permanently protect farmland, or adopt regenerative agricultural practices.

Giant's donation will support local farmers throughout the region with grants up to $10,000 per project to help farmers. In 2022, Giant raised $108,380 to benefit farms like:

Sisters of the Soil Community Farm : Part of the 10-acre Urban Farm Incubator at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, Maryland , a group of three farmers manage half of an acre and produce vegetables, fruits, nuts and other herbs.

: Part of the 10-acre Urban Farm Incubator at Watkins Regional Park in , a group of three farmers manage half of an acre and produce vegetables, fruits, nuts and other herbs. Maryland Line Farm : Located in Hazelton, West Virginia , Maryland Line Farm grows and produces vegetables, berries and maple syrup using ecological and regenerative farming methods.

: Located in Hazelton, , grows and produces vegetables, berries and maple syrup using ecological and regenerative farming methods. Dodo Farms : Dodo Farms is owned by husband-and-wife farmers from Nigeria . The Montgomery County, Maryland -based farm, which has expanded from one to more than three acres since 2018, is used to grow a variety of vegetables.

: Dodo Farms is owned by husband-and-wife farmers from . The -based farm, which has expanded from one to more than three acres since 2018, is used to grow a variety of vegetables. Chili Hill Farm : Located in Smithfield, Virginia , Chili Hill Farm grows seasonal vegetables and operates a small retail shop selling fresh produce and various Thai foods.

: Located in , Chili Hill Farm grows seasonal vegetables and operates a small retail shop selling fresh produce and various Thai foods. La Botanica : Operating on less than an acre in Fairfax, Virginia , La Botanica produces naturally grown no-till flowers, Indigo and fresh Puerto Rican produce.

: Operating on less than an acre in , La Botanica produces naturally grown no-till flowers, Indigo and fresh Puerto Rican produce. Love Bug Farm: Love Bug Farm, run by a former restaurant cook turned farmer, grows all of its vegetables using regenerative farming practices on an incubator farm space. Based in Upper Marlboro Maryland , Love Bug Farm grows vegetables for wholesale markets.

"As a business dedicated to supporting its local region, we're proud to know this money will be used toward increasing the resiliency of farms within our communities," said Diane Couchman, Vice President Category Management, Non-Perishables at Giant Food. "Partnering with our vendors like Tillamook and non-profit organizations such as AFT, allows us to help the hard-working farmers that supply our area with fresh, locally grown produce and flowers."

AFT's Brighter Future Fund launched in 2020 through a partnership with Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA), a farmer-owned co-op with one of the fastest growing dairy brands (Tillamook) in the country. The Fund was created to help farmers across the country start, grow and sustain farms in the face of challenges, including COVID-19, severe weather and shifting markets. This year, Giant Food was among the list of proud partners across the country dedicated to supporting the future of farming.

"When we helped American Farmland Trust launch the Brighter Future Fund in 2020, we set out to rally fans and businesses to support farmers across the country who are keeping our food supply strong," said Patrick Criteser, president & CEO of Tillamook County Creamery Association. "Giant Food has gone above and beyond to keep this important Fund thriving by engaging its customers and ensuring that farmers and farmland continue to get the support they deserve."

"With the help of partners like Giant and their shoppers, the Brighter Future Fund offered grants to more than 120 farmers nationwide this year, said David Haight, Vice President of Programs at American Farmland Trust. "These grants will help underserved farmers implement projects that increase farm viability and resilience  from growing their farming operations, to installing new fencing and irrigation systems, and purchasing needed equipment."

For more information on Giant Food, visit giantfood.com/community. For information about the Brighter Future Fund visit farmland.org/brighter-future. For information about TCCA's All For Farmer's Coalition supporting the Brighter Future Fund visit Tillamook.com/all-for-farmers.

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 27 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.

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families.

About Tillamook County Creamery Association

Founded in 1909 as a farmer-owned cooperative, Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) recently achieved the distinction as a Certified B Corporation (B Corp) and prides itself on its commitment to bringing to market the most consistent, best tasting and highest quality dairy products made in the most natural way possible. Guided by the belief that everyone deserves real food that makes them feel good every day, Tillamook produces internationally recognized, award-winning cheese as well as exceptional ice cream, butter, cream cheese spreads, yogurt and sour cream, made with unwavering values that never sacrifice or compromise quality for profit. TCCA is owned by a group of farming families, primarily based in Tillamook County, Oregon. TCCA operates production facilities in Tillamook and Boardman, Oregon and employs more than 900 people throughout the state. The Tillamook Creamery is the largest tourist attraction on the coast of Oregon and one of the most popular in the state, attracting more than one million visitors each year. For more information on TCCA and Tillamook, visit Tillamook.com.

SOURCE Giant Food
Ceramicware cups sold with Del Maguey Vida de Muertos mezcal are being recalled over leachable lead.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said the cups, or copitas, may exceed the FDA's guidance for levels of leachable lead. No complaints of illnesses or injuries have been reported.

The copitas were distributed free-of-charge to consumers at retail locations and tastings across the country. They were also included in value-added packs sold at stores since October 2022 that included a 750-milliliter mezcal bottle and four copitas.

The cup is made of red clay with applied enamel on the surface that holds the liquid inside. Consumers should discard the copitas or email consumercare@delmaguey.zendesk.com to receive new copitas or with questions.

Family Dollar is recalling Advil products that were stored and shipped to certain stores on or around June 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023, because they were stored outside of labeled temperature requirements.

The company said it is not aware of any consumer complaints or reports of illnesses. Products include Advil's 200 mg tablet and caplets, Dual Action and Liquid Gel tablets and minis. For a full list and SKU, check out the FDA's website at www.fda.gov.

Customers can return the products to the Family Dollar store where they purchased it, even without a receipt.

Lancaster Foods is recalling a limited quantity of three green products that have expired but were sold under the Giant, Robinson Fresh and Lancaster brands. The items were kale, spinach and collard greens produced at the company's Jessup, Maryland, facility.

The FDA said there is a possible health risk from listeria associated with the product after a bag of chopped kale with best if used by date of May 1 tested positive for listeria.

For a full list of affected products and best if used by dates, check out the FDA's website. The only Giant brands included in the recall are the 12-ounce and 8-ounce bags of curly leaf spinach with a best if used by date of April 29, and the 8- and 16-ounce bags of collard greens with a May 1 best if used by date.

Consumers may still have the products in their refrigerators and they are urged to discard them. Consumers with questions can call Lancaster Foods Customer Service at 877-844-3441.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also reported a number of recalls in the last week, including one from Walker Edison Furniture. The company is recalling its twin bunk beds because the wooden slats can break while in use, posing fall and impact hazards.

The company has received 14 reports of incidents, including one report of minor injuries.

The bunk beds were sold online at Walmart, Home Depot, Amazon, Overstock and Wayfair from February 2010 to February 2022. For a full list of model names, check out the commission's website at cpsc.gov.

Consumers should stop using the beds and contact the company at 877-203-2917 to receive a free repair kit with 12 wooden slats and new instructions.

ODL is recalling its severe weather doorglass inserts because under severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes, the adhesive bond holding the insert can become separated from the door, causing risk of injury and property damage. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

The inserts were sold at Home Depot and Lowe's nationwide and online from May 2022 to February 2023. For model numbers, check out the commission's website. Date codes for affected products are May 1, 2022, to Dec. 6, 2022.

Consumers should contact the company at 800-221-2839 to arrange for a free repair from a qualified technician. The insert will be repaired or replaced free of charge.

Berkshire Innovations is recalling its Sahara folding food dehydrators because the heater fan can fail, causing the components to overheat and catch fire.

The company has received 15 reports of the dehydrators overheating, though no injuries or property damage have been reported.

For model numbers, production codes and serial numbers, check out the commission's website. The dehydrators were sold online at Brod and Taylor, Amazon, William-Sonoma and Pleasant Hill Grain from July 2022 to March 2023.

Consumers should stop using the product, remove the polyester air filter and contact the company at 800-768-7064 for a free repair. The repair will consist of replacing the air filter with a nonflammable metal screen air filter.

CultureFly is recalling its LOL Surprise trick-or-treat subscription boxes with metal doll pins because the paint on the children's pins contain levels of lead that exceed the federal lead paint ban. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

The pins were sold online at the LOL Surprise Box and Amazon from October 2021 to December 2021. Consumers should take the pins away from children and contact the company at 866-540-3010 for a $10 refund. Consumers will receive an email with instructions to return or dispose of the pins.
DUBLIN, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Cannabis Testing Market: Distribution by Type of Cannabis Tested, Type of Sample Tested, Company Size, and Key Geographical Regions: Industry Trends and Global Forecasts, 2023-2035" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report features an extensive study of the current market landscape and the likely future potential of the cannabis testing market, over the next 12 years.

It highlights the efforts of various stakeholders engaged in this rapidly emerging segment of the cannabis testing industry.

In the last few years, several countries across the globe have legalized the use of medical cannabis and recreational-use cannbis / adult-use cannabis. This can be attributed to the therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabis-infused products that has been acknowledged recently.

Studies have shown that cannabis can provide substantial relief from adverse effects, such as chemotherapy-induced nausea and chronic pain associated with multiple sclerosis. In fact, three cannabis-derived prescription medications have already been approved for sale across the US.

Further, the recent legalization of cannabis across several countries, including Canada, Germany and Thailand, has prompted several stakeholders to develop and manufacture cannabis-infused products. However, the illicit market with questionable product quality still remains the primary source of cannabis and cannabis-infused products for the masses.

Further, the high potency of the cannabinoids and presence of contaminants, including microbes, pesticides, heavy metals and residual solvents in cannabis-infused products, compromise their shelf life as well as the consumer safety. This inherent lack of quality raises various concerns, challenging the future of this market.

In order to overcome these challenges, it becomes imperative that cannabis-infused products comply with the regulatory standards, stringent testing protocols to maintain the safety thresholds and protect consumer health. With rise in demand for safe and compliant cannabis-infused products, the cannabis testing market is anticipated to witness steady growth in the upcoming decade, offering various testing solutions to a number of end-users, including cultivators, product manufacturers, and research institutes.

Key Market Insights

Growing Demand for Cannabis Legalization and Cannabis-infused Products

There has been a steady increase in the consumption of cannabis, also known as marijuana; since 2018, the number of young-adults consuming the plant in any form has increased by 5%. Moreover, the consumption of cannabis increased by 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Presently, many countries have legalized medicinal use of cannabis, while 10 such countries have also approved recreational use of the plant. According to the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, there were at least 21 US states and District of Columbia that have legalized medical cannabis or adult-use cannabis. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for a diverse range of cannabis-infused products (in terms of applications, medical or recreational), including tinctures, salves, edibles, vape oils and raw plant materials.

In order to ensure the quality of different cannabis-infused products, over 350 cannabis testing labs equipped with novel equipment and software have been established globally. These cannabis testing labs provide regulatory-compliant testing of the products, ensuring quality and consumer safety. All these developments have paved way for growth in the cannabis / marijuana testing market.

Need for Cannabis Testing Labs

The recent legalization of medicinal cannabis across the US and many other regions, coupled with the decriminalization of the plant for recreational use, has revolutionized the field. Stringent regulatory standards have been imposed in order to ensure the quality of the product and safety of consumers.

To comply with these regulatory standards, an increasing number of cultivators, manufacturers and research institutes are leveraging the superior technical expertise of cannabis testing labs. These service providers offer analysis along with options for testing multiple product samples / final products with quick turnaround times, aiding the quality compliance of the products, as well as fortifying consumer safety.

In some US states, such as Massachusetts, the cannabis testing labs have also come together to form an association, showing their responsibility towards building a safe market for the consumers.

Growing Number of Cannabis Testing Labs

The cannabis testing market features more than 160 companies that claim to possess the necessary technical expertise for providing testing services for cannabinoid potency and contaminants, catering to the biopharmaceutical, agricultural and food industries. The market is currently dominated by small companies (1-50 employees), which represent 44% of the total number of players.

It is interesting to highlight that companies testing medical-grade cannabis products represent more than 75% of the total players in this market. In addition, recent developments in this industry indicates that substantial number of analytical laboratories have included testing of recreational / adult-use cannabis in their service portfolios.

In June 2022, Trichome Analytical became the first cannabis testing lab to receive license for adult-use cannabis testing in New Jersey. In the same month, Bia Diagnostics received license for adult-use cannabis testing in the state of Vermont, which legalized the use of adult-use cannabis in 2018, but the adult-use dispensaries started selling marijuana for recreational purpose in October 2022.

It is also worth highlighting that close to 40 companies world-wide offer cannabis testing products, including analytical instruments, consumables, reagents, and software solutions to these cannabis testing labs. Notably, more than 25% of these players also offer cannabis testing services along with testing products. The increasing number of cannabis testing labs across the world, serving the growing cannabis market, will drive the market to grow at a CAGR of ~22% over the forecast period.

Key Challenges in the Cannabis Testing Market

The legalization of cannabis across the globe has led to an increase in the number of cannabis products that comply with regulatory requirements and are safe for human consumption. However, the testing protocols for such products are not standardized across different labs.

Cannabis Testing Services Market Size

Driven by the rising demand for novel cannabis-infused medicinal and recreational products, the cannabis testing services market is anticipated to witness noteworthy growth in the foreseen future. Specifically, in terms of type of cannabis tested, the market is anticipated to be driven by the high demand for medicinal cannabis. Currently, majority of the revenues are generated from the testing of flower samples; however, in the near future, market for testing extracts and edibles is anticipated to grow at a relatively higher CAGR.

Emerging Markets to Drive Cannabis Testing Market Growth

At present there are limited cannabis testing labs in the emerging markets of Latin America, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. South Africa's first cannabis testing lab was opened by Afriplex in March 2019. Since then, several other laboratories like Qure and CannaLab have set up operations in the country.

In Latin America, Colombia is anticipated to cater over 40% of the global medical cannabis demand. Presently, under Asia-Pacific, Australia legalized the use of cannabis for recreational applications in 2016; Thailand legalized the plant for medical use in 2018. Following this, it is expected that more countries across the region will legalize the plant for either medical or recreational use in the foreseen future.

Although North America holds the largest share of the cannabis testing market at present, the emerging markets will push the market growth as these markets look to regulate their cannabis industry.

Frequently Asked Questions



Question 1: What are the medical applications of cannabis?

Answer: The consumption of cannabis has shown therapeutic efficacy against chronic pain associated with cancer, chemotherapy-induced nausea, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Moreover, the plant has also been used to treat certain neurodegenerative disorders including Tourette syndrome, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), anxiety, depression as well as sleep disorders.

Question 2: Which countries have legalized cannabis for medical use?

Answer: Examples of countries that have legalized the use of cannabis for medical purposes include Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Lesotho, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Poland, Romania, San Marino, Switzerland, Turkey, Uruguay, the US and Zimbabwe.

Question 3: Which are the top players in the cannabis testing market?

Answer: Presently, more than 160 companies are engaged in providing cannabis testing services worldwide. Examples of top players engaged in this market (which have also been captured in this report) include Abko Labs, ACT Laboratories, BelCosta Labs, CDX Analytics, Digipath, LGC, Medicinal Genomics, SGS, Steep Hill and Tentamus.

Question 4: What are the various factors driving cannabis testing market?

Answer: The factors driving the cannabis testing market include increasing legalization of cannabis across different regions and surge in demand for novel biopharmaceuticals and other products infused with cannabis extracts, such as tinctures and gummies.

Question 5: Which region has the highest market share in cannabis testing market?

Answer: North America captures around 58% share in the current cannabis testing services market. It is worth highlighting that Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the highest growth rate.

Question 6: Which are the leading market segments of the cannabis testing market?

Answer: Currently, in terms of the type of sample tested, flower samples capture the largest share of this market. However, extracts are likely to witness higher annual growth rates in the upcoming years, owing to their more demand and increased utilization in different cannabis-infused products. Further, in terms of the type of cannabis tested, medical cannabis is anticipated to capture a prominent share of the current and future market.

Question 7: What is the growth rate (CAGR) of the cannabis testing market?

Answer: The cannabis testing services market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of ~22% in the coming years.

Question 8: What are the upcoming trends in the cannabis testing market?

Answer: The legalization of cannabis has witnessed a substantial traction in the last few decades. In fact, the demand for medicinal cannabis and recreational cannabis-infused products has also increased. In order to ensure that these products are compliant with the regulatory standards and testing protocols run within the precise time limits with optimized accuracy, several players have integrated software solutions in the laboratory workflow that offer various additional benefits, such as laboratory information management, improving customer relationship and increasing the overall productivity of the labs by reducing turnaround times.

Key Topics Covered:

1. PREFACE

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

3. INTRODUCTION

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE: CANNABIS TESTING SERVICE PROVIDERS

5. CANNABIS TESTING SERVICE PROVIDERS: COMPANY COMPETITIVENESS ANALYSIS

6. CANNABIS TESTING SERVICE PROVIDERS: COMPANY PROFILES

6.1. Chapter Overview

6.2. AccuScience Laboratories

6.2.1. Company Overview

6.2.2. Service Portfolio

6.2.3. Recent Developments and Future Outlook

6.3. Anresco Laboratories

6.4. CDX Analytics

6.5. Coastal Analytical

6.6. Eurofins Scientific

6.7. EVIO Labs

6.8. FoodChain ID

6.9. LGC

6.10. Medicine Creek Analytics

6.11. SGS

6.12. Tentamus

7. MARKET LANDSCAPE: CANNABIS TESTING PRODUCT PROVIDERS

8. PARTNERSHIPS & COLLABORATIONS ANALYSIS

9. GLOBAL EVENTS ANALYSIS

10. CANNABIS TESTING SERVICES MARKET: MARKET SIZING AND OPPORTUNITY ANALYSIS

11. CONCLUDING REMARKS

12. EXECUTIVE INSIGHTS

13. APPENDIX 1: TABULATED DATA

14. APPENDIX 2: LIST OF COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jsu4c2

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The 18-day event will welcome 1,000 international artists to Grand Rapids to compete for awards, while activating world-class displays and programming at 200 venues across the city. This year marks a return to significant ArtPrize prize money totaling more than $400,000 and up to an additional $200,000 in various artist grants.

A Celebration of Art & Culture

With fresh energy, new collaborations, and a full slate of cultural experiences in the pipeline, ArtPrize will feature a robust calendar of destination happenings for visitors and locals to enjoy. Brought together by The City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD), and a host of significant donors, marquee moments will include daily ArtPrize-produced and community-led events.

"For nearly 15 years, ArtPrize has consistently drawn hundreds of thousands of artists and visitors to Grand Rapids as venues, parks, and public spaces are electrified with art, murals, activations, immersive experiences, and activities." said Whitington. "With a rejuvenated ArtPrize, we are honoring its legacy while ushering in a new era for the event and fostering a profound commitment to the arts community."

Recognizing & Supporting Artists

Artists displaying works during ArtPrize will compete for a selection of prizes  the Public Vote, with $125,000 awarded to first place, $50,000 to second and $25,000 to third, and the Juror Competition. For the Juror Vote, a hand-picked committee will recognize the artists who exemplify excellence in their medium in the following categories: 2-D, 3-D, installation, time-based and digital. Each category winner will be awarded $20,000 and ArtPrize will recognize a second artist from each category as Honorable Mention.

Committed to supporting and engaging contemporary artists from underrepresented communities, ArtPrize returns with expanded representation and increased prizes of $15,000 each through the Visibility Awards, which recognize contemporary Black, Indigenous, Latino, Asian and LGBTQIA+ artists who excel in their craft. Additionally, artists are eligible to apply for grants totaling $200,000 to help artists produce work, underwrite their participation, and help them realize ambitious works at ArtPrize.

Registered artists can connect with preferred venues to display their art. Likewise, venues can connect with artists to curate their spaces. Ultimately, the artists and venues work together to activate spaces throughout the Grand Rapids core. Bustling street corners, civic spaces, galleries, restaurants, bars and salons and everything between create a playful and vibrant canvas across the cityscape. In addition to displaying their art, artists will find opportunities to sell and market their art, find curated educational opportunities, and enjoy artist-focused networking and hospitality events, all while engaging attendees and the community.

As part of its mission to create accessible and meaningful conversations about art, ArtPrize is also investing heavily in education by creating opportunities for more than 10,000 regional students to experience and engage with art during the event, while generating content that will be used to drive a year-round arts curriculum in conjunction with the Grand Rapids School District.

Artists interested in learning more can attend ArtPrize's upcoming information sessions on May 12, 2023 (2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.), May 19 (4:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.) and June 2 (4:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.). The sessions will be held both virtually and in-person at 40 Pearl St NW #200, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. To RSVP, please email [email protected].

For more information about artist registration, the competition and experiences, please visit artprize.org.

About ArtPrize:

ArtPrize is an annual, international art festival and competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A celebration of creative ideas, conversations, experimentation and inclusiveness, ArtPrize is free and open to the public, welcoming visual and experiential artists and venues eager to host these works. For 18 days, art is exhibited in galleries, storefronts, parks, museums, speakeasies and in public spaces and at venues of all kinds. The City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. (DGRI), and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) came together to elevate ArtPrize  whose roots reach back to 2009  with new inspiration for 2023 and beyond. Through a new public/private partnership, this remarkable event for the community is now a remarkable event of the community.

Media Contact

Quinn PR

[email protected]

SOURCE ArtPrize
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The grape juice market size is set to grow by USD 414.9 million between 2021 and 2026. The market is expected to progress at a CAGR of 3.47%, 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 an up-to-date analysis of the current global market scenario and the overall market environment. View a Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Grape Juice Market 2022-2026

The report also covers the following areas:

Grape Juice Market 2022-2026: Segmentation

Distribution Channel

Offline



Online

Geography

North America



APAC



Europe



South America



Middle East And Africa

The market share growth by the offline segment will be significant for the market growth during the forecast period. The offline distribution channel dominated the global market and includes brick-and-mortar outlets such as hypermarkets, supermarkets, grocery stores, and convenience stores. The expansion of hypermarkets and supermarkets across the world is expected to play a major role in driving the growth of this segment. The easy availability of products and convenient access to outlets offering a broad range of product mixes are expected to drive this segment during the forecast period.

Receive our market sample report now to gain access to a detailed analysis of the grape juice market!

Grape Juice Market 2022-2026: 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 grape juice market include Cantine Brusa 1888 Spa, Citrus World Inc., Dabur India Ltd., De La Rosa Real Foods and Vineyards, Eckes Granini Group GmbH, G Patritti and Co. Ltd., Harvest Hill Beverage Co., Kayco Co., Kineta SA, Langer Juice Co. Inc., Lassonde Industries Inc., Nestle SA, Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc., Odyssey International Import Export Pty Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., Suntory Holdings Ltd., Vina Montpellier S.A., Voelkel GmbH, Welch Foods Inc., and Windmill Organics Ltd. To help businesses improve their market position, Technavio's report provides a detailed analysis of around 15 vendors operating in the market.

Vendor Offerings

Citrus World Inc - The company offers grape juices under its brand Floridas Natural.

The company offers grape juices under its brand Floridas Natural. Dabur India Ltd. - The company offers grape juice under its brand Real Activ.

The company offers grape juice under its brand Real Activ. Patritti and Co. Ltd. - The company offers grape juices such as sparkling dark grape juice, sparkling white grape juice, and sparkling golden muscatel grape juice.

Grape Juice Market - Market Dynamics

Key Driver

A key factor driving growth in the market is the growing number of organized retail outlets. Organized retailers have grown significantly in major countries, which is extremely beneficial for the vendors operating in the global market. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and discount stores have become the major sources of distribution and marketing of grape juice. The rise in urbanization in regions such as APAC and Latin America has positively influenced the rise in the number of organized retail outlets. Brazil, the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, China, Canada, France, Australia, and Japan are among the major countries with a high degree of penetration of organized retailing outlets within their territories. Hence, the increase in the number of organized retail outlets globally is expected to foster the growth of the global market.

Major Trends

The increasing focus on organic and non-GM products is a key trend that is expected to have a positive impact on the market during the forecast period. Consumers in some countries, such as Hungary, Greece, and Luxembourg, believe that GM products represent health threats. However, GM products are produced and used in various processed food and beverages in various other countries. Additionally, vendors across the food and beverage industry prefer that the ingredients used for the manufacture of products are produced through conventional methods of farming. Increased awareness among consumers about the health benefits of organic products also increases the demand for grape juice produced from organically grown grapes. Several vendors operating in the region are emphasizing the production of organic grape juices. Hence, the increased consumer awareness and vendor focus on organic products are expected to bring about significant market growth.

Key Challenges

The stringent regulations on grape juice will be a major challenge hindering the market during the forecast period. Several government bodies across the world enforce stringent guidelines or regulations for processing and producing grape juice. Along with regulations, certain regulatory bodies define parameters for food safety through the certification of food products and are responsible for protecting and promoting public health. The manufacturers of food products need to comply with the guidelines set by the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA), in the US. Similarly, in the EU member countries, manufacturers of grape juice are required to comply with the regulations set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates the quality of food products. Hence, the need to comply with these regulations involves additional costs, which could hamper the profits of the vendors and pose a challenge to the market.

To gain insights about the impact of different drivers, trends, and challenges on market growth, buy now!

Grape Juice Market 2022-2026: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2022-2026

Detailed information on factors that will assist grape juice market growth during the forecast period

Estimation of the grape juice market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the grape juice market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of grape juice market vendors

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Related Reports:

The sparkling juices market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 10.43% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to increase by USD 920.29 million. This report extensively covers market segmentation by type (sparkling juice drinks, hundred percent sparkling juice, and sparkling juices from nectar), distribution channel (supermarkets and hypermarkets, on-trade, independent retailers, convenience stores, and others), and geography (Europe, North America, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa). Increasing urbanization and changing consumer lifestyles are notably driving market growth.

The Aloe Vera Juice Market is projected to grow by USD 748.24 million with a CAGR of 11.38% during the forecast period 2021 to 2026. Furthermore, this report extensively covers aloe vera juice market segmentation by distribution channel (offline and online) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, the Middle East and Africa, and South America). The growing number of organized retail outlets is one of the major drivers impacting the aloe vera juice market growth.

Grape Juice Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 3.47% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 4,14.9 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2021-2022 (%) 2.74 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 35% Key countries US, Canada, India, Germany, and Brazil Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Cantine Brusa 1888 Spa, Citrus World Inc., Dabur India Ltd., De La Rosa Real Foods and Vineyards, Eckes Granini Group GmbH, G Patritti and Co. Ltd., Harvest Hill Beverage Co., Kayco Co., Kineta SA, Langer Juice Co. Inc., Lassonde Industries Inc., Nestle SA, Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc., Odyssey International Import Export Pty Ltd., PepsiCo Inc., Suntory Holdings Ltd., Vina Montpellier S.A., Voelkel GmbH, Welch Foods Inc., and Windmill Organics Ltd. 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.

Browse for Technavio's Consumer Staples Market Reports

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 09: Parent market



Exhibit 10: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 11: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 12: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2021

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026

Exhibit 13: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 14: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 16: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

4 Five Forces Analysis

4.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 17: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2021 and 2026

4.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 18: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2021 and 2026

4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 19: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 20: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 21: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 22: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.7 Market condition

Exhibit 23: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2021 and 2026

5 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel

5.1 Market segments

Exhibit 24: Chart on Distribution Channel - Market share 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 25: Data Table on Distribution Channel - Market share 2021-2026 (%)

5.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel

Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by Distribution Channel



Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by Distribution Channel

5.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 28: Chart on Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 29: Data Table on Offline - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 30: Chart on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 32: Chart on Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Online - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 34: Chart on Online - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Online - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel

Exhibit 36: Market opportunity by Distribution Channel ($ million)

6 Customer Landscape

6.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 37: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

7 Geographic Landscape

7.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 38: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)

7.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 40: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Geographic comparison

7.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 42: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 43: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 44: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 45: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.4 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 46: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 47: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 48: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 49: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.5 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 51: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 52: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 53: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 55: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 56: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 57: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 59: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 60: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 61: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 62: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 63: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 64: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 65: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 66: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 67: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 68: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 69: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.10 Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 71: Data Table on Canada - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 72: Chart on Canada - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 73: Data Table on Canada - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.11 India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 74: Chart on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 75: Data Table on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 76: Chart on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 77: Data Table on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.12 Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 79: Data Table on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 80: Chart on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 81: Data Table on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 82: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

8.1 Market drivers

8.2 Market challenges

8.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 83: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026

8.4 Market trends

9 Vendor Landscape

9.1 Overview

9.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 84: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

9.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 85: Overview on factors of disruption

9.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 86: Impact of key risks on business

10 Vendor Analysis

10.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 87: Vendors covered

10.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 88: Matrix on vendor position and classification

10.3 Citrus World Inc.

Exhibit 89: Citrus World Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 90: Citrus World Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 91: Citrus World Inc. - Key offerings

10.4 Dabur India Ltd.

Exhibit 92: Dabur India Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 93: Dabur India Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 94: Dabur India Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 95: Dabur India Ltd. - Segment focus

10.5 G Patritti and Co. Ltd.

Exhibit 96: G Patritti and Co. Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 97: G Patritti and Co. Ltd. - Product / Service



Exhibit 98: G Patritti and Co. Ltd. - Key offerings

10.6 Kayco Co.

Exhibit 99: Kayco Co. - Overview



Exhibit 100: Kayco Co. - Product / Service



Exhibit 101: Kayco Co. - Key offerings

10.7 Langer Juice Co. Inc.

Exhibit 102: Langer Juice Co. Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 103: Langer Juice Co. Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 104: Langer Juice Co. Inc. - Key offerings

10.8 Lassonde Industries Inc.

Exhibit 105: Lassonde Industries Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 106: Lassonde Industries Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 107: Lassonde Industries Inc. - Key news



Exhibit 108: Lassonde Industries Inc. - Key offerings

10.9 Nestle SA

Exhibit 109: Nestle SA - Overview



Exhibit 110: Nestle SA - Business segments



Exhibit 111: Nestle SA - Key news



Exhibit 112: Nestle SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 113: Nestle SA - Segment focus

10.10 Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc.

Exhibit 114: Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 115: Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 116: Ocean Spray Cranberries Inc. - Key offerings

10.11 PepsiCo Inc.

Exhibit 117: PepsiCo Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 118: PepsiCo Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 119: PepsiCo Inc. - Key news



Exhibit 120: PepsiCo Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 121: PepsiCo Inc. - Segment focus

10.12 Welch Foods Inc.

Exhibit 122: Welch Foods Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 123: Welch Foods Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 124: Welch Foods Inc. - Key offerings

11 Appendix

11.1 Scope of the report

11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 125: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 126: Exclusions checklist

11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 127: Currency conversion rates for US$

11.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 128: Research methodology



Exhibit 129: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 130: Information sources

11.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 131: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
BETHESDA, Md. and GREENWICH, Conn., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hull Street Energy ("Hull Street") and Atlas Holdings ("Atlas") announced today the signing of a definitive agreement for Hull Street to acquire 100% of the Bastrop Energy Center and Paris Energy Center power plants from Mesquite Generation Holdings LLC, an affiliate of Atlas. Located in Bastrop and Paris, Texas, the facilities provide 855 megawatts of critical power generation and reliability services to the Texas grid.

Hull Street Energy to Acquire Texas Natural Gas-Fired Power Plant Portfolio From Atlas Holdings

"We are thrilled to be acquiring these high-quality, winterized power plants with a track record of operational excellence," said Edward Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of Milepost Power, Hull Street Energy's thermal power infrastructure business unit. "We look forward to working with the employees and other regional stakeholders to enhance the resiliency and reliability of power service for regional customers as the intermittent renewable fleet grows."

Upon close of this transaction and the recently announced planned acquisition of Sunrise Power Holdings LLC, which owns a 586 megawatt power plant in Bakersfield California, Hull Street Energy affiliates will own approximately 2,300 megawatts of strategically located gas-fired and dual-fueled generation capacity, which will provide meaningful reliability support to grid operations, throughout the United States.

Troutman Pepper acted as legal counsel to Hull Street Energy. King and Spalding and Houlihan Lokey acted as legal counsel and financial adviser to Atlas, respectively.

About Hull Street Energy, LLC

Hull Street Energy is a private equity firm that specializes in deploying capital into the power sector as it decarbonizes. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, the team leverages its decades of experience and unique knowledge of North American electricity infrastructure, fundamentals and grid operations, including fuel inputs, commodity contract structuring, renewable and fossil powered generation assets, energy storage, transmission and distribution systems, and electricity demand-side businesses to build value for stakeholders. For further information about Hull Street Energy please see www.hullstreetenergy.com.

About Milepost Power

Milepost Power owns and manages flexible, dependable and clean natural gas and dual-fuel electric generating plants in North America, providing electricity and critical reliability service to the grid. Its power plants and analytically driven risk management protocols position the company to play an increasingly important role as the industry transitions to include more renewable generation resources. Milepost Power is an affiliate of Hull Street Energy. For further information please see www.milepostpower.com.

Media Contact:

[email protected]

About Atlas

Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut and founded in 2002, Atlas and its affiliates own and operate 26 companies, which employ approximately 50,000 associates across more than 300 facilities worldwide. Atlas operates in sectors such as aluminum processing, automotive, building materials, capital equipment, construction services, food manufacturing and distribution, packaging, paper, power generation, printing, pulp, supply chain management and wood products. Atlas' companies together generate approximately $16 billion in revenues annually.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Hull Street Energy
RENO, Nev., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - i-80 GOLD CORP. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80") and Paycore Minerals Inc. (TSXV:CORE) ("Paycore") are pleased to announce the completion of i-80's acquisition of Paycore, owner of the FAD Property that hosts the high-grade FAD deposit located immediately south of, and adjoining, i-80's 100%-owned Ruby Hill Property ("Ruby Hill" or the "Property") in Eureka County, Nevada.

Image 1  Hilltop Corridor Surface Plan (CNW Group/i-80 Gold Corp)

This transaction was completed by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) (the "Arrangement") and consolidates and enhances i-80's exposure to one of the world's premier re-emerging Carbonate Replacement Deposit (CRD) districts, while also providing i-80 with 100% ownership of the FAD deposit, one of the highest-grade polymetallic deposits in North America. Once the current infill & expansion drill program is completed, the FAD deposit is expected to add to the Company's impressive resource base.

Paycore's common shares are expected to be de-listed from the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") within three to five business days. Pursuant to the Arrangement, Paycore shareholders received 0.68 of an i-80 common share for each common share of Paycore held. Each Paycore warrant and Paycore option is exercisable for i-80 common shares, as adjusted in accordance with the exchange ratio under the Arrangement.

Acquisition highlights:

Consolidates the most productive part of the Eureka District - adds 1,468 Ha to land package

FAD deposit historical resource: 3,540,173 t @ 5.14 g/t Au, 196.46 g/t Ag, 8.0% Zn, 3.8% Pb [1]

Positive results from Paycore drilling in 2022:

PC22-07:



1.1 g/t Au, 155.5 g/t Ag, 22.0% Zn & 1.5% Pb over 12.5 m and





2.0 g/t Au, 231.6 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 3.7% Pb over 44.8 m



PC22-08:



7.1 g/t Au, 376.3 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 10.3% Pb over 14.8 m



PC22 -10:



8.0 g/t Au, 79.0 g/t Ag, 10.0% Zn & 1.0% Pb over 27.4 m and





1.8 g/t Au, 318.0 g/t Ag, 4.6% Zn & 6.1% Pb over 7.4 m

Prior to the discovery of Carlin-type mineralization by Homestake at Ruby Hill in the 1990's, the Eureka District enjoyed a successful history (1864-1966) that resulted in some of the world's highest-grade CRD mines. The district produced approximately 1.6 Moz of gold at an average grade of 0.8 oz/ton (27.4 g/t Au) and 39 Moz of silver at an average grade of 19.5 oz/ton (668.6 g/t Ag) from 2.0 Mtons mined (also reported 625M lbs lead @ 15.6 % Pb)[2] with most of the production from the original Ruby Hill Mine, located on the FAD property. The FAD deposit is the down-dip extension of the original Ruby Hill Mine and was successfully expanded in a 2022 drill campaign with mineralization that remains wide open for expansion.

"The expanded land package at Ruby Hill will allow i-80 to aggressively pursue the optimization of the Company's multi-year development plan and to realize its goal of creating one of the largest U.S.-focused diversified mineral producers.", stated Matthew Gollat, Executive Vice-President of i-80 Gold. "As we complete work related to the restart of our two processing facilities, Lone Tree for gold and Ruby Hill for polymetallics, the addition of the FAD deposit to our impressive portfolio will be considered in our future sequencing plans."

"The FAD deposit represents one of North America's highest-grade undeveloped deposits that fits perfectly into our 2023 exploration program where we have an expanded focus on defining polymetallic mineralization in the Eureka District to better assess the economic opportunity.", stated Tyler Hill, Senior Geologist of i-80 Gold. "High-grade polymetallic deposits like FAD are rare, with grades that are expected to rival many of the world's premier polymetallic deposits like Agnico's LaRonde Mine in Quebec."

The FAD deposit is located within the "Hilltop Corridor" approximately 2.0 km south of the Hilltop discovery made by i-80 in mid-2022 and the property expands i-80's exposure along the favourable structure by approximately 2.5 km. In addition to ongoing drilling at FAD, multiple drill rigs are aggressively defining and expanding mineralization at Hilltop, a series of high-grade CRD zones located on the south side of the Archimedes pit (see Image 1), where previously released results from 2022 drilling include 515.3 g/t Ag, 28.9% Pb, 10.5% Zn & 0.9 g/t Au over 28.3 m in hole iRH22-43 (Upper Hilltop), 1.9 g/t Au, 631.3 g/t Ag, 7.4% Zn & 33.0% Pb over 18.3 m in hole iRH22-53 (Upper Hilltop), 60.2 g/t Au, 908.7 g/t Ag, 1.1% Zn & 15.7% Pb over 10.0 m in hole iRH22-55 (Upper Hilltop) and 12.3% Zn over 39.6 m in hole iRH22-61 (East Hilltop) - see i-80's press releases dated August 30th, 2022 and November 14, 2022.

Image 1  Hilltop Corridor Surface Plan

"I would like to thank all of the Paycore shareholders for their support since Paycore started trading and we look forward to participating in the future success of i-80 Gold.", commented Christina McCarthy, President and CEO of Paycore Minerals.

A relogging program was completed on holes drilled by Paycore in 2022. During this program, an unsampled "Upper" mineralized horizon was identified in several holes. These intervals were subsequently sampled, with highlight results including:

New 2023 FAD assay results from previously unsampled intervals, true widths estimated 80-95% Drillhole ID Type From (m) To (m) Length (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Pb (%) Zn (%) PC22-01 Core 667.5 675.8 8.3 3.1 397.2 7.4 18.9 PC22-07 Core 595.3 598.3 3.0 3.7 578.5 7.7 7.1 PC22-08A Core 577.6 578.8 1.2 3.3 287.0 2.4 15.1 And Core 705.9 709.0 3.1 3.1 101.0 0.9 2.4 PC22-10 Core 674.5 676.7 2.2 8.0 264.1 0.9 11.1



FAD is one of several deposits within the Hilltop Corridor, a +2.0 km long, alluvial covered, trend immediately south of the Archimedes pit that is believed to be host to multiple feeder fault structures (see Image 1) and is largely untested by previous drilling owing to the alluvial cover. The Hilltop discoveries were made in the second half of 2022 exploration campaign while testing one of several brownfield exploration targets identified proximal to the Blackjack (skarn) deposit, confirming the Company's belief that the Ruby Hill Property could be host to multiple types of mineralization and several large-scale deposits. Additional highgrade CRD discoveries have been made in 2023, extending mineralization along the Hilltop fault over a strike length of approximately 750 metres.

Geophysical surveys completed at Ruby Hill have identified several highly prospective anomalies that are believed to have the potential to represent additional massive sulfide targets. Several of these anomalies will be tested in the 2023 drilling program. Additional geophysical surveys will be completed in the near future to cover the southern extension of the Hilltop Corridor and the FAD Property.

The Ruby Hill Property is one of the Company's primary assets and is host to the core processing infrastructure within the Eureka District of the Battle Mountain-Eureka Trend including an idle leach plant and an active heap leach facility. The Property is host to multiple gold, gold-silver and polymetallic (base metal) deposits. The Company has submitted for approval its plan to develop an underground mine at Ruby Hill with mineralization accessed via a ramp from the Archimedes open pit. Work is also progressing for the completion of updated mineral resource estimates (gold and polymetallic zones) and an initial economic study for the gold zones (only).

Please click here for further information on abbreviations and conversions referenced in this press release.

QAQC Procedures

All samples were submitted to ALS Minerals (ALS) of Sparks, NV, which is an ISO 9001 and 17025 certified and accredited laboratory, independent of the Company. Samples submitted through ALS are run through standard prep methods and analysed using Au-AA23 (Au; 30g fire assay; ALS) and ME-ICP61a (33 element suite; 0.4g Four Acid/ICP-AES; ALS). Overlimit samples of Ag, Pb, and Zn are analyzed by ore-grade methods comprising HF-HNO3-HClO4 Digest, HCl leach and ICP-AES. Additional samples overlimit oregrade methods are analyzed by acid dissolution and titration. ALS also undertakes their own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. i-80 Gold Corp's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards (gold and polymetallic), duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results. For QAQC regarding Paycore Minerals results please see Paycore Mineral's December 6th, 2022 press release.

Qualified Person

Tyler Hill, CPG-12146, Senior Geologist at i-80 is the Qualified Person for the information contained in this press release and is a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

About i-80 Gold Corp.

i-80 Gold Corp. is a well-financed, Nevada-focused, mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio with processing at i-80's centralized milling facilities. i-80 Gold's common shares are listed on the TSX and the NYSE American under the trading symbol IAU:TSX and IAUX:NYSE. Further information about i-80 Gold's portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.i80gold.com or by email at [email protected].

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, the expectations of the officers and directors of i-80 following completion of the Arrangement, the expansion or mineral resources at Ruby Hill and the potential of the Ruby Hill project and the FAD Project. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.

___________________________________ 1 The historical estimates contained in this presentation have not been verified as current mineral resources. A "qualified person" (as defined in NI 43-101) has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. 2 Source: Nolan, Thomas B. The Eureka Mining District Nevada: Geological Survey Professional Paper 406. Washington, DC: United States Government Printing Office, 1962. 78pp. & Nolan, T.B., and Hunt, R. N., 1968, The Eureka Mining District, Nevada, in Ridge, J. D., ed., Ore deposits of the United States, 1933-1967 (Graton-Sales Vol.): New York, American Institute of Mining Metallurgy Petroleum Engineers. v. 1. P. 966-991.

SOURCE i-80 Gold Corp
RENO, Nev., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - i-80 GOLD CORP. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80", or the "Company") reports its operating and financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023. i-80's Consolidated Interim Financial Statements ("financial statements"), as well as i-80's Management's Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial Condition ("MD&A") for the three months ended March 31, 2023, are available on the Company's website at www.i80gold.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts referred to herein are in U.S. dollars.

2023 First Quarter Highlights:

Q1 2023 gold sales of 2,349 ounces, including the first gold sold from the Granite Creek property

March 31 cash balance of $57 million and $33 million in restricted cash

cash balance of and in restricted cash Continued exploration success at Ruby Hill including multiple new high-grade discoveries and expansion of gold and polymetallic mineralization

6,890 core feet and 320 RC feet drilled to expand monitoring of the hydraulic properties at McCoy Cove

Continued underground core drilling delineation of the CSD Gap ore body at McCoy Cove (10,699 feet)

9,389 tons of oxide mineralized material shipped to Lone Tree from Granite Creek for processing

Entered into an agreement to acquire Paycore Minerals Inc.

Engineering Class III study of Lone Tree autoclave refurbishment continued on plan

"We are encouraged to have achieved the milestone of our first gold sale from Granite Creek, with over 400 ounces sold. We continue to advance development and improve production capabilities at this site and expect a ramp up through 2023. In addition, we continued to have production from the residual leaching at both Lone Tree and Ruby Hill", stated Ryan Snow, Chief Financial Officer of i-80. "We continued to advance development at McCoy-Cove and exploration at Ruby Hill spending nearly $9.0 million during the quarter to further understand the Hilltop and Blackjack zones at Ruby Hill and the CSD Gap ore body at McCoy Cove. With the additional capital raise completed in February, we will continue to advance i-80's projects towards our ultimate goal of being a mid-tier Nevada focused producer."



Three months ended

March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted) 2023 2022





Revenue 4,548 2,857 Cost of sales (6,542) (1,525) Depletion, depreciation and amortization (1,421) (167) Mine operating income (loss) (3,415) 1,165





Expenses



Exploration, evaluation, and pre-development 8,979 9,254 General and administrative 5,191 3,273 Property maintenance 2,449 326 Share-based payments 1,308 1,442 Operating loss (21,342) (13,130)

Production and sales totaled 2,349 gold ounces for the quarter at a realized gold price of $1,9271 per ounce sold.

Exploration, evaluation, and pre-development costs were $9.0 million in Q1. This expenditure mainly reflects the exploration and pre-development work at McCoy Cove and Ruby Hill.

Lone Tree

Lone Tree is expected to become the hub of i-80's Nevada operations and the central processing facility for gold mineralization from the Granite Creek, McCoy-Cove and Ruby Hill underground gold deposits. Importantly, Lone Tree is host to infrastructure that, following successful refurbishment efforts, will position i-80 as one of only three companies in the United States capable of processing both oxide and refractory mineralization.

During the quarter, the Company continued leaching the residual material on the pads as planned and shipped approximately 1,950 ounces of gold on loaded carbon from site to further processing. Additionally, the Company continued to advance the engineering study and cost estimate for the restart of the autoclave.

Lone Tree produced and sold from its residual leaching activities 663 ounces of gold during Q1 at a realized gold price of $1,9621 per ounce sold.

Granite Creek

During Q1 the Company continued its efforts to upgrade existing de-watering infrastructure to ensure efficient operations and have mined 16,648 tons of mineralized material at an average grade of 9.9 g/t, of which 9,389 tons of oxide material was hauled to the Lone Tree leach pad to continue processing. As of March 31, 2023, 1,870 feet of development were completed as part of the Company's ramp up plan.

Granite Creek produced and sold 444 ounces of gold during Q1, at a realized gold price of $1,9381 per ounce sold.

McCoy-Cove

There was 7,210 feet of core and RC drilling conducted during the first quarter of 2023 for hydrogeologic characterization to support permitting efforts. Underground delineation drilling continued during Q1 with 10,699 feet of core drilled. Expenditures continued during the quarter on the exploration ramp and hydrology studies, and engineering of de-watering and mining options. As of the end of the first quarter, development footage completed was 1,308 feet. Total footage development of the project life as of Q1 2023 is 4,403 feet.

Ruby Hill

During the first quarter of 2023, drilling at Ruby Hill was primarily focused on further definition and expansion of high-grade polymetallic mineralization along the Hilltop fault structure, successfully extending mineralization over a strike length of approximately 750 metres and resulting in the discovery of additional zones. 13,875 feet of core drilling and 25,750 feet of RC drilling was completed during the quarter. In addition to drilling at Hilltop, multiple holes are being drilled to test the Blackjack Zone and these holes are intended at testing new targets. The Ruby Hill property provides significant optionality as it is host to oxide gold, sulphide gold, polymetallic CRD and skarn base metal mineralization. All deposits are located in close proximity to the underground infrastructure development being planned in 2023.

Residual leaching activities at Ruby Hill produced and sold 1,242 ounces of gold during Q1 at a realized gold price of $1,9041 per ounce sold.

Investor Day Presentation

The Company will hold an "Investor Day" presentation immediately following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 9, 2023, being held at Bennett Jones LLP office  100 King St W Suite 3400, Toronto in the Canada Boardroom on the 34th floor. The inperson AGM will begin at 4:00pm EST followed by the Investor Day presentation commencing at 4:30pm EST. The presentation can also be accessed via a conference call and webcast (details below). Investors are invited to attend the event inperson where they can meet and discuss details with members of i-80's Board of Directors and Management Team.

Conference Call Participant Details Webcast URL: https://app.webinar.net/AyeNd3zbxWk Phone Number Information: North American Toll-free: 1-888-664-6383

Local Toronto: 1-416-764-8650

Qualified Persons

Tyler Hill, CPG-12146, Chief Geologist, and Tim George, PE, Mining Operations Manager, at i-80 have reviewed this press release and are the Qualified Persons for the information contained herein and are a "Qualified Person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

About i-80 Gold Corp.

i-80 Gold Corp. is a Nevada-focused mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio with processing at i-80's centralized milling facilities. i-80 Gold's common shares are listed on the TSX and the NYSE American under the trading symbol IAU:TSX and IAUX:NYSE. Further information about i-80 Gold's portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.i80gold.com or by email at [email protected].

Forward-looking information

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, actual production results and costs, results of operation outcomes and timing of updated technical studies at the Company's mineral projects, timing to advance mineral projects to production and advance permitting and feasibility work on the on its mineral projects and future production, development and exploration results. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labor unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to i-80's filings with Canadian securities regulators, including the most recent Annual Information Form, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The Company has included certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under IFRS in this document. These include: adjusted net earnings and average realized price per ounce. Non-IFRS financial performance measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with the Company's Financial Statements.

Definitions

Adjusted earnings / (loss) and adjusted earnings / (loss) per share excludes from net earnings / (loss) significant write-down adjustments and the gain / (loss) from financing instruments.

Average realized gold price represents the sales price of gold per ounce before deducting mining royalties, treatment and refining charges and gains or losses derived from the offtake agreement with Orion.

Average realized gold price per ounce of gold sold

Average realized gold price per ounce of gold sold is a non-IFRS measure and does not constitute a measure recognized by IFRS and does not have a standardized meaning defined by IFRS. It may not be comparable to information in other gold producers' reports and filings.





Three months ended March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted)(i)













Nevada production

2023 2022 Revenue per financial statements $ 4,548 2,864 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (21) (7) Gold revenue from mining operations $ 4,527 2,857 Ounces of gold sold ounce 2,349 1,489 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,927 1,918







Lone Tree





Revenue per financial statements $ 1,304 1,631 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (4) (7) Gold revenue from mining operations $ 1,300 1,624 Ounces of gold sold ounce 663 843 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,962 1,926







Ruby Hill





Revenue per financial statements $ 2,382 1,233 Silver revenue from mining operations $ (16)  Gold revenue from mining operations $ 2,366 1,233 Ounces of gold sold ounce 1,242 646 Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,904 1,908







Granite Creek





Revenue per financial statements $ 861  Silver revenue from mining operations $   Gold revenue from mining operations $ 861  Ounces of gold sold ounce 444  Average realized gold price $/ounce 1,938 

(i) May not add due to rounding.

Adjusted Earnings / (Loss)

Adjusted earnings / (loss) and adjusted earnings / (loss) per share are non-IFRS measures that the Company considers to better reflect normalized earnings because it eliminates non-recurring items. Certain items that become applicable in a period may be adjusted for, with the Company retroactively presenting comparable periods with an adjustment for such items and conversely, items no longer applicable may be removed from the calculation. Neither adjusted earnings / (loss) nor adjusted earnings / (loss) per share have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies.

The following table shows a reconciliation of adjusted earnings / (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2023 and 2022, to the net earnings / (loss) for each period.



Three months ended

March 31, (in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise noted)(i) 2023 2022





Net loss for the period $ (13,118) $ (23,263) Adjust for:



Gain / (loss) on warrants 5,568 (3,105) Gain / (loss) on convertible loans 8,366 (6,093) Loss on deferred consideration (427) (844) Loss on fair value measurement of Gold Prepayment Agreement (3,091)  Loss on fair value measurement of Silver Purchase Agreement (857)  Inventory net realizable value adjustment (4,025)  Total adjustments $ 5,534 $ (10,042) Adjusted loss for the period $ (18,652) $ (13,221) Weighted average shares for the period 245,603,313 239,301,138 Adjusted loss per share for the period $ (0.08) $ (0.06)

(i) May not add due to rounding.

1 Specified financial measure which is not a standardized measure under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar specified financial measures used by other entities. Please see "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" for the composition of such specified financial measure, an explanation of how such specified financial measure provides useful information to a reader and the purposes for which management of i-80 uses the specified financial measure, and where required, a reconciliation of the specified financial measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure.

SOURCE i-80 Gold Corp
ROCKVILLE, MD. and SUZHOU, China, May 7, 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, metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announces that the first patient with Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) has been successfully dosed in the Phase 3 study (RESTORE) of IBI311, a recombinant anti-insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) monoclonal antibody.

The RESTORE study (CTR20223393) is a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, phase 3 clinical study evaluating the efficacy of IBI311 in improving proptosis in TED subjects to support the potential new drug application of IBI311. The primary endpoint is the difference in the improvement in proptosis degree responder rate of the study eye in the treatment group compared with the placebo group at week 24.

IBI311 is an IGF-1R targeting monoclonal antibody independently developed by Innovent for the treatment of TED. Currently no biological agent for TED has been approved in China. By blocking the binding of IGF-1 and IGF-2 to IGF-1R, IBI311 inhibits IGF-1R signaling pathway activation and reduces the expression of downstream inflammatory factors, thereby inhibiting the adipocytosis of orbital fibroblasts (OFs) and the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and other glycosaminoglycans due to the activation of OFs, as well as the inflammatory response, thus reduces disease activity and improve proptosis, diplopia, ocular congestion and edema in patients with TED.

The principal investigator, Professor Fan Xianqun from Ophthalmology Department of the Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, stated: " TED is one of the most common orbital diseases in adults and is an organ-specific autoimmune disease closely related to thyroid disease, which can severely affect the visual function and appearance of patients. There are currently no targeted drugs approved for TED in China. Significant efficacy signals have been observed in IBI311 phase 2 clinical study, including the regression of exophthalmos and the improvement of the Clinical Activity Score (CAS), and a good safety profile was also demonstrated. We are confident that IBI311, developed by a domestic biopharmaceutical company, will demonstrate good efficacy and safety in the Chinese TED patients and be able to be launched to market as soon as possible to address patients' urgent needs."

Dr. Lei Qian, Vice President of Clinical Development of Innovent, stated: "At present, there is a great unmet medical need for TED because of no targeted drug approved for TED in China. IBI311 is an ophthalmic drug candidate developed by Innovent for the treatment of TED with high druggability, and will potentially add synergic value to our product portfolio in endocrinology and metabolism field. Preclinical in vivo and in vitro studies, the Phase 1 study in healthy volunteers as well as the Phase 2 study in TED subjects demonstrated that IBI311 has favorable safety and tolerability characteristics, and significant efficacy signals were also observed, which has laid a good foundation for the development of Phase 3 RESTORE study. Innovent will continue cooperating with academia and advance clinical development under the leadership of Prof. Fan, and plans to submit the NDA after the Phase 3 study completion to bring high quality and accessible biologics to Chinese TED patients."

About Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

TED is an autoimmune disease involving ocular tissues and is usually associated with Graves' disease (GD) and is the most common orbit-related disease in adults. TED occurs in approximately 25 to 50% of GD patients and can also be seen in other thyroid diseases, even in euthyroidism1.

The annual incidence of TED is estimated to be 16/100,000 in women and 2.9/100,000 in men2. According to disease severity, it can be divided into mild, moderate and severe. Although TED appears to affect women more often, severe cases occur more frequently in men. Patients aged 30 to 50 years are most commonly affected, and severe cases occur more frequently in patients over 50 years3. At present, the pathogenesis of TED is not fully understood, but several studies have shown that OFs present in muscle fibers, orbital fibrous connective tissue space are key factors leading to orbital soft tissue enlargement in TED4.

The natural history of TED is divided into active and inactive phases5. The most common symptoms are dry eye, ocular gritty, photophobia, lacrimation, diplopia, and pressure behind the eye, while typical signs include upper eyelid retraction, eyelid edema, periorbital and conjunctival edema, and proptosis. TED is usually mild to moderate, and about 35% of patients with TED are severe, manifesting as severe pain, vision-threatening corneal ulcers, or compressive optic neuropathy6. In addition to potentially affecting vision, TED can have an extremely severe impact on the patient's appearance and social functioning and quality of life.

Currently, the first-line treatment option for moderately severe active TED is intravenous glucocorticoid therapy, which suffers from unsatisfactory improvement of proptosis and systemic side effects, and second-line treatment includes other immunomodulators, which also have risks related to unclear improvement of proptosis and treatment.

Teprotumumab, TociIizumab and Rituximab are recommended by the Chinese Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines for Thyroid Eye Disease (2022)7, the European Group On Graves' Orbitopathy (EUGOGO)8 and the consensus on thyroid eye disease of the American Thyroid Society and the European Thyroid Society9 as the second-line treatment options for moderate to severe active TED. Teprotumumab is recommended as first-line therapy for patients with clinically significant ophthalmopathy.

About IBI311

IBI311 is a recombinant anti-IGF-1R antibody developed by Innovent Biopharmaceuticals for the treatment of TED. IGF-1R is a transmembrane tyrosine kinase receptor that plays a role in development, metabolism, and immune regulation, and is overexpressed in OFs, B, and T cells of TED patients10. IBI311 can bind IGF-1R, block IGF-1R signaling pathway activation mediated by IGF-1 and other related ligands or agonistic antibodies, reduce the expression of downstream inflammatory factors, thereby inhibiting the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and other glycosaminoglycan caused by OFs activation, as well as related inflammatory reactions including tissue congestion and edema; inhibit adipocyte cellularization of OFs, thereby reducing the disease activity of patients with TED and improving proptosis, diplopia, ocular congestion and edema and other symptoms and signs.

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 in the fields of oncology, metabolism, autoimmunity,, ophthalmology 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/.

Note:

TYVYT (sintilimab injection) is not an approved product in the United States.

BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection), SULINNO, and HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection) are not approved products in the United States.

TYVYT (sintilimab injection, Innovent)

BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

SULINNO (adalimumab biosimilar injection, Innovent)

Pemazyre (pemigatinib oral inhibitor, Incyte Corporation). Pemazyre was discovered by Incyte Corporation and licensed to Innovent for development and commercialization in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

CYRAMZA (ramucirumab, Eli Lilly). Cyramza was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China.

Retsevmo (selpercatinib, Eli Lilly). Retsevmo was discovered by Eli Lilly and licensed to Innovent for commercialization in Mainland China.

Disclaimer: Innovent does not recommend any off-label usage.

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 Biologics ("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 materialise or turn out to be incorrect.

Reference:

1. Li Z, Cestari D M, Fortin E. Thyroid eye disease: what is new to know? Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2018;29(6):528-534. 2. Bartley G. The epidemiological characteristics and clinical course of ophthalmology associated with autoimmune thyroid disease in Olmsted Country, Minnesota. Trans Am Ophthalmol Soc 1994;92:477-588. 3. Edsel I. Thyroid Associated Orbitopathy. Retrieved June 7, 2011, from Medscape Reference: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1218444-overview#a1 4. Ali F, Chorsiya A, Anjum V, Ali A. Teprotumumab (TEPEZZA): from the discovery and development of medicines to USFDA approval for active thyroid eye disease (TED) treatment. Int Ophthalmol. 2021;41(4):1549-1561. 5. Dolman P J. Evaluating Graves' orbitopathy. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab.2012;26(3):229-248. 6. Bahn R S. Graves' ophthalmopathy. N Engl J Med. 2010;362(8):726-738. 7. Bartalena L, Kahaly GJ, Baldeschi L, et al. The 2021 European Group on Graves' orbitopathy (EUGOGO) clinical practice guidelines for the medical management of Graves' orbitopathy. Eur J Endocrinol. 2021;185(4):G43-G67. 8. , .  2022.. 2022;58(9). 9. Burch HB, et al. Management of thyroid eye disease: a Consensus Statement by the American Thyroid Association and the European Thyroid Association. Eur Thyroid J. 2022;11(6):e220189. 10. Douglas RS, Naik V, Hwang CJ, et al. B cells from patients with Graves' disease aberrantly express the IGF-1 receptor: implications for disease pathogenesis. J Immunol 2008;181:5768-5774.

SOURCE Innovent Biologics
Former Obama Foundation senior director will lead JFF's fundraising strategy to accelerate the organization's mission to achieve equitable economic advancement for all

BOSTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that drives transformation in the U.S. education and workforce systems, today announced the appointment of Amy Seusing as its first Chief Development Officer. In this role, Seusing will lead JFF's strategy to diversify revenue through public sector grants and contracts, foundation and corporate partnerships, and individual giving, creating high-impact partnerships to support JFF's mission to promote equitable economic advancement for all.

"This is a powerful moment for JFF to build relationships with new mission-aligned funding sources that can help fuel our efforts to drive change in our education and workforce systems. The nation's learners and workers continue to face a multitude of inequities, yet there is a growing desire among employers, educators, and the public sector to generate new opportunities and challenge the status quo," said Maria Flynn, President and CEO of Jobs for the Future. "By partnering with individuals and funders who share our vision for transforming the U.S. education and workforce systems to help millions of people achieve their career and life goals, we believe Amy's expertise, relationships, and passion for these issues can help expand our impact and accelerate change."

Seusing will take over JFF's development efforts during a time of significant growth for the organization. JFF has doubled in size and budget over the past three years, enabling it to invest in new approaches to create opportunities for those facing barriers to quality jobs, particularly learners and workers who are people of color or women, people of all backgrounds without four-year degrees, and people with criminal records. Seusing's experience developing high-impact partnerships for social good will be critical to support JFF's commitment over the next 10 years to promote more worker-centered, living wage jobs for millions of people and to better prepare the nation's workers and learners to fill them.

"I was drawn to Jobs for the Future because throughout my career I've had the honor of supporting initiatives that drive economic opportunity for individuals and communities facing systemic barriers, and I appreciate how critical this work is," said Seusing. "I'm thrilled to join an organization that believes in bold transformation and look forward to forging promising new partnerships and deepening existing ones."

Prior to joining JFF, Seusing served as Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations at the Obama Foundation, the nonprofit focused on inspiring, empowering, and connecting young people to change their world, and building the future Obama Presidential Center. In that role, she created the corporate and foundation fundraising team, strategy, and structure to grow the foundation's corporate and foundation revenue to more than $150 million in three years. Before that, Seusing served as Vice President of Development at Rebuilding Together, a national housing and community development nonprofit.

Over the last year, JFF has launched two new centers -- the Center for Racial Economic Equity and the Center for Justice and Economic Advancement -- and a new Employer Mobilization practice to help employers support the economic mobility of their workers. Additionally, through JFFLabs, the organization has recently announced two new incubated lines of practice focused on Climate Innovation and Lifelong Learning, and the launch of JFF Ventures, an impact investment fund supporting innovative products and services supporting economic advancement for learners and workers.

In 2022, the organization acquired Dave's Killer Bread Foundation's second chance hiring program to help increase employment opportunities for the nearly 600,000 people released from prison each year. Also in 2022, JFFLabs acquired Educational Quality Outcomes Standards (EQOS) and recently received a major grant from GitLab Foundation to partner with the Burning Glass Institute to expand the EQOS framework, making it easier for job seekers and employers to assess the rapidly increasing number of education and training programs available today.

Entering its 40th year, JFF continues to work with public, private, and nonprofit sector changemakers to drive new ideas, promising innovations, and equitable ways to help millions more people advance. Select funders include The Walmart Foundation, The U.S. Department of Labor, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, American Student Assistance, and Ares Charitable Foundation, among other philanthropic foundations, government agencies, and corporations. For additional information, please visit: https://www.jff.org/about/donors/

About JFF: Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all. www.jff.org

SOURCE JOBS FOR THE FUTURE INC
-- Thermal Spray Solutions Adds Strategic Defense Focused Capabilities to Kymera's Surface Technologies Product Range --

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kymera International ("Kymera"), a global leading specialty materials company, announced today that it has closed its transaction with Thermal Spray Solutions, Inc. ("TSS"), acquiring substantially all their assets. Headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, TSS is a leading provider of high-performance thermal spray coatings for corrosion and wear resistance to the U.S. Navy, the shipbuilding sector, and key industrial customers throughout the United States.

Kymera International acquires Thermal Spray Solutions Inc., expanding on thermal spray, coatings, and surface technology solutions.

"The sale of TSS to Kymera aligns with our strategic goal of growing our specialty coatings business segment. The team at TSS has developed unique material and process solutions that extend the life of metal substrates and provides non-slip surfaces to areas such as naval aircraft carrier decks. These technologies, along with Kymera's in-house developed materials, will allow us to expand our product offerings in the U.S. and use Kymera's footprint to drive growth globally," commented Barton White, Kymera CEO. "Notably, we are particularly excited how this investment will augment our growing offerings to support the U.S. Navy."

"Kymera continues to execute on its M&A playbook, now closing its seventh acquisition under Palladium's ownership," said Adam Shebitz, a Partner at Palladium. "The addition of TSS is right on strategy as it accelerates Kymera's expansion into high-growth surface technologies and value-added specialty materials."

"Thermal Spray Solutions is excited to become a part of Kymera's Surface Technologies Group. Kymera's focus on coatings applications and new product development will put TSS in a significantly stronger position to support the rapidly growing opportunities within our existing DoD and commercial customer base," said Chris Nichols, VP Sales & Marketing and Co-founder of TSS.

The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Kymera International

Kymera International, through acquisitions, can trace its roots back to the 1800's. Today, Kymera International is a U.S. owned leading, global developer and manufacturer of advanced specialty materials and high-performance surface coatings. Kymera sells its technically developed products into a wide variety of end markets, including aerospace, defense, medical, electronics, chemical, specialty auto, additive manufacturing, and numerous industrial applications. Kymera International has manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Australia, Europe, and Asia. www.kymerainternational.com

About Thermal Spray Solutions

Thermal Spray Solutions is a full-service thermal spray facility specialized in rotating equipment solutions and on-site metal coating application. The facility, headquartered in Chesapeake, VA, boasts one of the largest thermal spray booths in the Eastern USA and is the leading supplier of Thermal Spray Nonskid coatings for US Navy flight decks.

About Palladium Equity Partners, LLC

Since its founding in 1997, Palladium has invested in more than 200 companies (38 platforms and more than 165 add-ons). With over $3 billion in AUM, the firm focuses primarily on buyout equity investments in the range of $50 million to $150 million. Palladium seeks to acquire and grow companies in partnership with founders and experienced management teams by providing capital and strategic guidance. The partners of the firm have meaningful experience in consumer, services, industrials, and healthcare businesses, with a special focus on companies they believe will benefit from the growth in the U.S. Hispanic population. For more information, visit www.palladiumequity.com.

SOURCE Kymera International
May 7-13, 2023, marks National Prevention Week. Hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this week promotes the work of individuals and organizations across the United States whose goal is to keep people and communities safe, as well as spreading awareness about substance use disorders and mental health issues.

Something I have heard recently that resonated with me is that prevention is a series of small acts by many people. This leads me to the concept of upstream prevention. Upstream prevention focuses on improving protection while reducing risk to allow people to reach their full health potential.

An anecdote used to describe this is the river story. In this story people are struggling in the water, clear that if they do not receive help, they will drown. We can pull people out of the water to shore but still more people keep floating by. It is becoming difficult to rescue all the people; what else can be done and where are they all coming from? You happen to look all the way upstream and see someone fall through a hole in the bridge. And there you have your answer. You make your way upstream with a toolbox and repair the bridge to stop people from falling in the stream. By addressing the root cause, harm is prevented before it occurs; this is upstream prevention.

In the prevention field, we do not go about repairing bridges, but we do identify the holes or areas of need. One important source of information for identifying need is the Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS). PAYS is conducted every two years and surveys students in 6th, 8th, 10th and 12th grades to understand their behavior, attitudes and knowledge concerning alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and violence. This survey looks at the risk factors that are related to these behaviors (the hole in the bridge) and the protective factors that guard against them (the toolbox). PAYS is helpful for policymakers in making decisions about funding and allows organizations to provide targeted prevention to where the need is greatest.

One of the areas in which PAYS has been a valuable resource for my organization is around vaping. We all have heard that vaping is a youth problem, but PAYS provides specific information regarding how many students vape and what they are vaping. For example, in 2021, a quarter of all students who vaped in Cumberland County in the last year did not know what they were vaping.

With this knowledge, we have been able to target our programming toward vaping education. By increasing student knowledge and awareness of the ingredients in vapes and their attendant risks, students can make more informed choices.

The PAYS will be administered this fall during the 2023-24 school year at no cost to schools. Registration is entirely online and is available now for both private and public schools to join!

For more information, please contact our office at 717-240-6300 or email cumbperrydanda@ cumberlandcountypa.gov.
Catherine Hein brings a wealth of foreign investment and national security experience.

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Latham & Watkins LLP1 is pleased to announce that Catherine Hein has joined the firm's Washington, D.C. office2 as counsel in the CFIUS & US National Security practice, within the White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice. Hein most recently served as Acting Principal Deputy Assistant General Counsel of Enforcement and Intelligence at the US Department of the Treasury (Treasury). Prior to that, she served as the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) Managing Counsel at Treasury. She brings significant experience with matters involving CFIUS and US national security regulatory regimes.

Catherine Hein

At Treasury, Hein led a team of more than 20 lawyers doing the legal review of cases before CFIUS. She advised administration and congressional stakeholders on the full spectrum of policy issues and legal authorities associated with foreign investment in US entities, including matters of international cooperation and infrastructure investment. Hein also worked on the development of regulatory regimes, including in connection with the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act of 2018 (FIRRMA) and a proposed policy on certain outbound investments. She previously worked at the US Trade Development Agency, US Agency for International Development (USAID), and at an international law firm where she advised on banking and finance transactions.

"We are delighted to welcome Catherine to Latham and our Washington, D.C. office. Our clients will benefit from her insights and experience with CFIUS while at the Treasury Department, as well as her work interagency on foreign investment policy. She adds substantial depth to our market-leading CFIUS & US National Security practice," said Daniel Lennon, Washington, D.C. Office Managing Partner.

"Catherine's deep experience with many CFIUS reviews and advising on foreign investment policy at Treasury will bring significant value to our team and our clients as they navigate the increasingly complex process of evaluating the national security risk of foreign investment in the United States and successfully clearing transactions through CFIUS. We are excited to welcome her to Latham," said Doug Greenburg, Global Chair of the firm's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice.

Les Carnegie, a Washington, D.C. partner who co-leads the firm's Economic Sanctions & Export Controls practice as well as the CFIUS & US National Security practice, said: "Catherine adds tremendous insight, skill, and subject matter mastery to our premier CFIUS and national security team. Her government leadership and work within CFIUS will bring immense value to our team and our clients. We're thrilled to have her join the team."

Catherine is another strong addition to the firm's CFIUS & US National Security practice in Washington, D.C., following the arrivals of prominent CFIUS and international trade compliance lawyers Damara Chambers and Ruchi Gill in recent years.

"I have long admired Latham's outstanding CFIUS, export controls, and economic sanctions lawyers for their consistent excellence and deep understanding of the national security issues impacting trade and investment in the US," Hein said. "I look forward to joining this talented and collaborative team and to delivering exceptional results for clients."

Hein received her J.D. from Columbia University School of Law, where she was both a James Kent and Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar, her M.A from the University of Chicago, and her B.A. from Barnard College, Columbia University.

About Latham & Watkins (lw.com)

Latham & Watkins delivers innovative solutions to complex legal and business challenges around the world. From a global platform, our lawyers advise clients on market-shaping transactions, high-stakes litigation and trials, and sophisticated regulatory matters. Latham is one of the world's largest providers of pro bono services, steadfastly supports initiatives designed to advance diversity within the firm and the legal profession, and is committed to exploring and promoting environmental sustainability.

Notes to Editors

1 Latham & Watkins operates worldwide as a limited liability partnership organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (USA) with affiliated limited liability partnerships conducting the practice in France, Hong Kong, Italy, Singapore, and the United Kingdom and as an affiliated partnership conducting the practice in Japan. Latham & Watkins operates in Israel through a limited liability company, in South Korea as a Foreign Legal Consultant Office, and in Saudi Arabia through a limited liability company.

2 Admitted to practice in New York only. Work in the District of Columbia conducted pursuant to DC Court of Appeals Rule 49(c)(8). All work in the District of Columbia supervised by a member of the DC Bar.

Contacts



Daniel Lennon, Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins' Washington, D.C. office, +1.212.906.1281

Doug Greenburg, Global Chair of Latham & Watkins' White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, +1.202.637.1093

Les Carnegie, Partner, Latham & Watkins, +1.202.637.1096

SOURCE Latham & Watkins
MOUNT STERLING, Ohio, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WillowWood Global LLC ("WillowWood"), a leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of prosthetic products, today announced that it has released the Alpha Control Liner System in collaboration with Coapt LLC, the first prosthetic liner with embedded electronics. The liner's novel design and embedded electronics capture and condition muscle contraction signals generated by the wearer and communicate seamlessly with a Coapt Complete Control myoelectric pattern recognition system in the prosthesis. The Alpha Control Liner System benefits individuals utilizing a myoelectric prosthesis by enabling more comfortable and consistent electrode contact with the skin, therefore providing better functional control of the prosthesis. Further it reduces the time and complexity of fitting and fabricating the prosthesis.

"We believe the Alpha Control Liner System will advance the care of upper extremity prosthesis patients by overcoming the key challenges with myoelectric prosthesis interfaces" said Matt Wernke PhD, Director of Research and Development at WillowWood. "The results from our Department of Defense funded clinical trial found that Alpha Control Liner System improved outcomes across key metrics for both the patient and clinician compared to current standard of care interfaces."

The robust and high quality myoelectric signals from the Alpha Control Liner System enable peak performance of Coapt's Complete Control System. The Complete Control system uses machine learning to decode the intentions of the user and control actions of the prosthesis. "Coapt was the first to commercialize pattern recognition technology for myoelectric prostheses and has stayed a leader in innovaton. This partnership with WillowWood brings together revolutionary liner technology and best-in-class myoelectric technology to define the new gold standard for prosthesis control," says Blair Lock, CEO of Coapt.

"We are excited to lead the transformation of the prosthetic interface from passive to more functionally capable. This system focuses on addressing the challenges persistent in upper extremity myoelectric prostheses and in the future will have impact for other levels of prosthetic care." said Daniel Rubin, COO of WillowWood.

About WillowWood Global LLC

Based in Mount Sterling, Ohio, WillowWood Global (www.willowwood.com) is an industry leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of prosthetic products, including liners, feet, vacuum systems and components. Recognized for its products' superior innovation, quality, and patient outcomes, WillowWood's portfolio includes the Alpha family of liners, the Koa LP and Meta families of high-activity feet, the LimbLogic vacuum system, and the OMEGA CAD system. For over 115 years, WillowWood's prosthetic products have helped individuals with limb loss find comfort and functionality, remain active, and live life to the fullest.

About Coapt LLC

Coapt LLC (www.coaptengineering.com), based in Chicago, IL, was founded in 2012 and is the industry leader in myoelectric machine learning control applications. Coapt's FDA Class II-cleared Complete Control product line was first launched in 2012 is the preeminent technology allowing upper limb prosthesis users to naturally control their advanced, bionic prosthetic arms and hands.

Media Contact:

Hugo Rubin

[email protected]

740.869.8188

SOURCE WillowWood Global
HARRISBURG, Pa., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania's Lieutenant Governor, students and legislators from across the state shared their support and experiences with afterschool programs at the 2023 Afterschool Advocacy Day Rally, May 3, 2023, on the Pennsylvania state Capitol steps.

Several speakers shared their support for HB 795, Building Opportunity Through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) legislation which would provide $70 million in state funding for quality afterschool programs.

Student attending 2023 Afterschool Advocacy Day rally holds sign "Afterschool programs make the future brighter."

"As advocates of out-of-school time programming, you are champions for the future of our youth, and your dedication to creating positive learning environments is truly admirable," stated Contrell Armor, director of Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network. "Your work has a profound impact on the lives of countless children and families, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment to improving education and promoting positive youth development."

Students Sarah Anderson, YMCA Youth and Government Delegate at Hershey High School, Derry Township School District, and Lael Laing, Youth and Government Delegate at Friendship YMCA, Central Dauphin School District, served as emcees.

Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis reminded the group that he attended an afterschool program and "the next governor or lieutenant governor could be standing with us right now Whether it's making sure we create a workforce that can empower us into the future or making sure we can reduce violence in our communities, funding afterschool programs is a step in the right direction."

Senator Lynda Schlegel-Culver encouraged each student to "make their mark on this Commonwealth. Every single one of these students is going to be leaders in their community We need to do so much more to support afterschool programming in Pennsylvania For every child enrolled in an OST program, four more are waiting to get into a program. We are letting children down."

Senator Mike Regan shared that because of his 23 years of experience in law enforcement, he is aware that the hours after school can be a dangerous time for kids. "We need to make sure that all the kids in Pennsylvania have the opportunity to take part in these vital programs to lift them to the next level."

Representative Elizabeth Fiedler said, "As a parent, afterschool is absolutely critical We want to make sure as a Commonwealth and a state House and state Senate that we are doing absolutely everything we can as adults to support you all, because long after we are gone, it's going to be you folks who are running this place Afterschool programs can save lives."

Representative Doyle Heffley shared, "I would encourage all legislators if you have an afterschool program in your district, get out and visit it, really understand how these programs work. Programs that provide a safe and nurturing environment. Programs that can improve academic performance and behavioral problems These programs provide a return on investment for these children."

Sean Jackson, a student at Braddock Hills High School, shared how afterschool programs give students "a safe space away from the violence in the world My experience in the afterschool program has helped me build relationships with many of the staff I see on a daily basis and opens up to me someone I can speak to and feel comfortable talking to them about personal issues."

Kamora McMillan, a student at South Philadelphia High School, shared, "It is imperative that the youth, families, communities and most importantly state reps know that afterschool programs are beneficial to youth of all ages and should be a high priority."

Student speakers included:

Youth Keynote, Neha Shukla , Flight Crew Million Girls Moonshot, Mechanicsburg

, Flight Crew Million Girls Moonshot, Youth Speaker, Enjalai Baillie, Harrisburg High School, Sci-Tech and Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week (PFEW), Harrisburg

Youth Speaker, Aliyah Webster , Chief Science Officer, Minersville Area Junior and Senior High School, Minersville

, Chief Science Officer, Minersville Area Junior and Senior High School, Youth Speaker, Sean Jackson , Braddock Hills High School, Pittsburgh

, Braddock Hills High School, Youth Co-Speakers, Aaron Pravs and Kamora McMillan , South Philadelphia High School, Philadelphia

Amy Burrows, Assistant Director of Propel Afterschool Programs and 2022 PSAYDN Afterschool Champion for Outstanding Quality, Pittsburgh, also made remarks.

In Pennsylvania, every $1 invested in afterschool programs saves $6.69 by decreasing high school dropout rates, teen pregnancy, substance use and crime. Yet, for every youth enrolled in an afterschool program in Pennsylvania, four more are waiting to get in. Decades of research prove afterschool helps kids attend school more often, get better grades, and build foundational skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving.

Afterschool Advocacy Day is organized by the Pennsylvania State Afterschool/Youth Development Network (PSAYDN), in partnership with Pennsylvania School-Age Child Care Alliance (PENN SACCA), the Pittsburgh Learning Collaborative, Pennsylvania Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs, Pennsylvania State Alliance of YMCAs, Allegheny Partners for Out-of-School Time (APOST), and Sunrise of Philadelphia, Inc.

View photo gallery at https://www.psaydn.org/press/2023-05-08-release.

About PSAYDN

Founded in 2004, Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool Youth Development Network (PSAYDN) at Center for Schools and Communities is one of 50 statewide afterschool networks funded through the Mott Foundation and a host of other funders. Its mission is to promote sustainable, high quality out-of-school time (OST) youth development programs through advocacy and capacity building to enhance the welfare of Pennsylvania's children, youth and families. With nearly 3,000 members, over 6,000 recognized OST providers, over 100 partners, and serving in all 67 counties, PSAYDN has grown the network by providing services and supports that influence and impact afterschool on national, statewide, and regional levels. For more information, please visit www.psaydn.org.

Contact: Kelly Swanson, 717-992-5964, [email protected]

SOURCE Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool/Youth Development Network (PSAYDN)
BOULDER, Colo. and RALEIGH, N.C., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Linxon has signed an exclusivity agreement with Available Power for the 100 MW/200 MWh Greenport Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Austin, Texas. This agreement strengthens the relationship between both parties, following their strategic partnership for 1GW of distributed energy storage projects in the ERCOT market.

Ben Gregory, President of Available Power, said, "We are pleased to collaborate with Linxon on this flagship project for our partnership. Battery energy storage is a vital component of our distributed energy resource (DER) platform, deploying highly available and flexible power assets that secures access to clean, reliable energy. We are confident that our partnership with Linxon will help us expedite the energy transition in Texas and generate value for our investors, landowners, and grid operators."

Nicolas Sanloup, President and Managing Director of Linxon Americas, stated, "What an exciting time for both of our companies. We are proud of our deep relationship with Available Power and are pleased to contribute to the development of a premier DER platform. The Greenport project is the achievement of months of collaborative work demonstrating our mutual commitment to a sustainable energy future."

This addition serves as a testament to the strength and momentum behind their collaboration. The project scope includes the design, construction, installation, and testing of all equipment required for the BESS installation, including a 345/34.5kV, 130 MVA step-up power transformer, 345kV AIS equipment, battery enclosures, inverter skid with coupling transformer, inverter control system/EMS, and station auxiliary supply system.

The Greenport project is planned to be completed by Q1 2025. Available Power and Linxon will continue their journey accelerating the energy transition and fostering sustainability in the Texas ERCOT market.

To learn more about Available Power, please visit available-power.com, and to learn more about Linxon, please visit linxon.com Linxon is building the infrastructure to power the world with carbon free energy. It strives to minimize the carbon impact of our business activities, by continually looking for supply options and methods of working which will significantly reduce carbon emissions - in design, procurement and construction.

Contacts

Nikki Arnone, Inflection Point Agency for Available Power

[email protected]

Maria Vejar, Communications Lead NAM for Linxon

[email protected]

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE Linxon
Digital Quilt Provides Living Memorial

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The livesproject.org provides both a living memorial to victims of the Fentanyl deaths and a call to action to stop the senseless loss of life. The National Crime Prevention Council and McGruff the Crime Dog created the digital quilt as a way for families and loved ones impacted by the crisis to help others from facing the same fate.

"This is an important day to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit fentanyl," said NCPC Executive Director Paul DelPonte. "The quilt plays homage to the AIDS quilt which helped erase stigma associated with the disease. The digital format serves as reminder that so many fentanyl victims were dupped into their own death by online trafficking of fake drugs."

The Lives Project shares the stories of hundreds of individuals from all walks of lives and age ranges who have been lost to Fentanyl. Stories are submitted by loved ones and are populated via a digital formal to call attention to online criminal behavior and fake pill transactions on social media. It will continue to grow as long as this crisis continues.

The liveproject.org quilt is part of a multiprong effort by NCPC to reduce the supply, demand, and trafficking of fentanyl-lace drugs. Just two milligrams of the substance can be fatal and drug cartels and dealers are adding the potent killer to a range of fake pharmaceuticals often sold to children and others under more popular drug names.

NCPC has been actively working with federal, state, and local law enforcement to stop fentanyl-laced drugs from being sold on social media platforms and the internet. Livesproject.org provides a visible platform to support families and others who have lost a loved by advocating for needed change.

Follow McGruff the Crime Dog on social media @McGruffatNCPC to learn more.

About the National Crime Prevention Council

The nonprofit National Crime Prevention Council is home to McGruff the Crime Dog and has helped generations of Americans Take A Bite Out Of Crime through public education campaigns and advocating for public policies to make the U.S. safer. Follow NCPC on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@McGruffatNCPC), and TikTok (@McGruff_CrimeDog).

Media Contact:

Tatiana Peralta

Communications Manager

[email protected]

954-895-5980

SOURCE National Crime Prevention Council
 Findings from two clinical study presentations in adults with HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 provide insight into the appropriate use of terlipressin for the care of critically ill patients2,3 

DUBLIN, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE American: MNK), a global specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced the presentation of results from two clinical studies for adults with hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) with rapid reduction in kidney function1 treated with TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023, taking place in Chicago, Ill. from May 6-9. Mallinckrodt's pooled analysis of three North American Phase III studies on the incidence of adverse events (AEs) related to bradycardia and arrhythmias in adults with HRS treated with terlipressin was awarded Poster of Distinction status from DDW, and was presented on Sunday, May 7, 2023, 12:30  1:30 p.m. CDT.2 Additionally, Mallinckrodt's subgroup analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III study to assess terlipressin treatment outcomes in adults with HRS compounded by alcoholic hepatitis (AH) will be presented in an oral lecture session today, May 8, 2023, 10:30  10:45 a.m. CDT.3

TERLIVAZ is the first and only FDA-approved product indicated for the treatment of adults with HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function,1 an acute and life-threatening condition requiring hospitalization.4 Terlipressin is recommended by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) guidance5 and the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guidelines.6

Please see Limitation of Use and Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warning, below.

Presented by Jasmohan S. Bajaj, School of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Va., the pooled analysis (DDW Poster of Distinction: Su1535) used the largest-to-date prospective database of three North American Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled trials (OT-0401, REVERSE, CONFIRM) to evaluate the incidence of reported bradycardia and arrhythmias in adult patients with HRS treated with terlipressin vs. placebo. All three studies excluded patients with prior arrhythmias and significant cardiovascular disease, and statistical analysis was determined using a Fisher's Exact test.2

Khurram Jamil, Vice President & Head, Hepatology, Clinical Development & Critical Care at Mallinckrodt, said, "We are excited to share the results from this pooled analysis of the largest HRS patient data set to-date, selected as a DDW 2023 Poster of Distinction, which bolsters our overall understanding of TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection's risk-benefit profile and the significance of adverse events such as bradycardia and arrhythmias,2 to ultimately provide continued support for the use of this treatment in appropriate patients with HRS with rapid reduction in kidney function.1"

The pooled safety population included 598 patients, of which 349 received terlipressin and 249 received placebo. The incidence of episodes of bradycardia was higher in terlipressin-treated patients (6.3%; n=22) compared with placebo-treated patients (0.8%; n=2; P<0.001), and none of these episodes were considered serious. Bradycardia was classified as severe per investigator assessment in 68.2% (n=15/22) of patients in the terlipressin group and in 100% (n=2/2) of patients in the placebo group, and most patients did not require a change in treatment dose (terlipressin: 72.7%; n=16/22 vs. placebo: 50%; n=1/2; P=0.507). One patient treated with terlipressin had a dose interruption, and there were no treatment discontinuations.2

Further, no differences were observed between treatment groups (terlipressin: arrhythmia [0%, n=0/349,]; nodal arrhythmia [0%, n=0/349]; ventricular fibrillation [0%, n=0/349] vs. placebo: arrhythmia [0.8%, n=2/249, P=0.173]; nodal arrhythmia [0.4%, n= 1/249, P=0.416]; ventricular fibrillation [0.4%, n=1/249, P=0.416]. Atrial fibrillation was the most reported arrhythmia across the pooled safety population (total: 4.0%, n=24/598; terlipressin: 3.7%, n=13/349; placebo: 4.4%, n=11/249; P=0.678).2

To be presented by Kevin Korenblat, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo., the key findings of a subgroup analysis (DDW Oral Lecture: 651) of the CONFIRM Phase III study aim to evaluate efficacy of terlipressin treatment in patients with HRS compounded by AH. Diagnosis of baseline AH was via investigator assessment, and data was retrospectively analyzed in patients with AH for verified HRS reversal (defined as the percentage of patients with 2 serum creatinine (SCr) values of 1.5 mg/dL 2 hours apart, while on treatment up to 72 hours after the last dose of study drug), admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), length of ICU stay, and incidence of renal replacement therapy (RRT) by Day 30.3

"The findings of this subgroup analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III study build upon the growing body of evidence supporting the use of TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection as a treatment option among critical care patients with HRS, including its therapeutic ability to drive meaningful clinical outcomes for a significant population of patients with comorbid conditions, such as alcoholic hepatitis,3" added Peter Richardson, MRCP (UK), Executive Vice President & Chief Scientific Officer at Mallinckrodt. "As TERLIVAZ uptake and use among U.S. hospitals continues following FDA approval in 2022, our research at DDW 2023 reflects our ongoing commitment to critically ill patients by pursuing research that provides physicians with the most up-to-date treatment considerations to help inform patient care decisions."

In CONFIRM (n=300), 41% (81/199) of patients in the terlipressin group and 39% (39/101) of the patients in the placebo group had AH at baseline. In the subgroup of patients with AH (n=120), the median Maddrey discriminant function score was similar across treatment groups (terlipressin: 96.9 vs. placebo: 97.7; P=0.681). Verified HRS reversal was achieved in 30.9% (n=25/81) of patients in the terlipressin group vs. 7.7% (n=3/39) in the placebo group (P=0.005).3

Additionally, admission to the ICU was similar for patients in the terlipressin and placebo groups (17.3%, n=14 vs. 17.9%, n=7), whereas mean length of stay in the ICU was shorter for terlipressin (6.9 days) vs. the placebo group (12.4 days). There was a numerical decrease in RRT by Day 30 in the terlipressin group vs. the placebo group (21%, n=17 vs. 25.6%, n= 10).3

These studies were sponsored by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals:

Presented Sunday, May 7, 2023; 12:30  1:30 p.m. CDT:

Poster Su1535 *: Low Incidence of Clinically Significant Bradycardia and Arrhythmia in Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Following Terlipressin Treatment: A Pooled Analysis of 3 North American Phase III Clinical Studies 2

Presenter: Jasmohan S. Bajaj, School of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond, Va.

*Poster of Distinction

To be presented Monday, May 8, 2023; 10:30  10:45 a.m. CDT; South Level, 402:

Oral Lecture 651 : Clinical Responses to Terlipressin in the Subgroup of Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Further Compounded by Alcoholic Hepatitis: Analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III Study 3

Presenter: Kevin Korenblat, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo.

Find more information on the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023 Meeting website.

About Digestive Disease Week

Digestive Disease Week (DDW) is the largest international gathering of physicians, researchers and academics in the fields of gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and gastrointestinal surgery. Jointly sponsored by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), DDW is an in-person and online meeting from May 6-9, 2023. The meeting showcases more than 3,100 abstracts and hundreds of lectures on the latest advances in GI research, medicine and technology. More information can be found at www.ddw.org.

About Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS)

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 is an acute and life-threatening condition that occurs in people with advanced liver disease.4 HRS is classified into two distinct types  a rapidly progressive type that leads to acute renal failure where patients are typically hospitalized for their care and a more chronic type that progresses over weeks to months.4 HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 is estimated to affect between 30,000 and 40,000 Americans annually.7,8 If left untreated, HRS with rapid reduction in kidney function1 has a median survival time of approximately two weeks and greater than 80 percent mortality within three months.9

INDICATION AND LIMITATION OF USE

TERLIVAZ is indicated to improve kidney function in adults with hepatorenal syndrome with rapid reduction in kidney function.

Patients with a serum creatinine >5 mg/dL are unlikely to experience benefit.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: SERIOUS OR FATAL RESPIRATORY FAILURE

TERLIVAZ may cause serious or fatal respiratory failure. Patients with volume overload or with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) Grade 3 are at increased risk. Assess oxygenation saturation (e.g., SpO 2 ) before initiating TERLIVAZ.





Do not initiate TERLIVAZ in patients experiencing hypoxia (e.g., SpO 2 <90%) until oxygenation levels improve. Monitor patients for hypoxia using continuous pulse oximetry during treatment and discontinue TERLIVAZ if SpO 2 decreases below 90%.

Contraindications

TERLIVAZ is contraindicated:

In patients experiencing hypoxia or worsening respiratory symptoms.

In patients with ongoing coronary, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia.

Warnings and Precautions

Serious or Fatal Respiratory Failure: Obtain baseline oxygen saturation and do not initiate TERLIVAZ in hypoxic patients. Monitor patients for changes in respiratory status using continuous pulse oximetry and regular clinical assessments. Discontinue TERLIVAZ in patients experiencing hypoxia or increased respiratory symptoms.



Manage intravascular volume overload by reducing or discontinuing the administration of albumin and/or other fluids and through judicious use of diuretics. Temporarily interrupt, reduce, or discontinue TERLIVAZ treatment until patient volume status improves. Avoid use in patients with ACLF Grade 3 because they are at significant risk for respiratory failure.

Ineligibility for Liver Transplant: TERLIVAZ-related adverse reactions (respiratory failure, ischemia) may make a patient ineligible for liver transplantation, if listed. For patients with high prioritization for liver transplantation (e.g., MELD 35), the benefits of TERLIVAZ may not outweigh its risks.





TERLIVAZ-related adverse reactions (respiratory failure, ischemia) may make a patient ineligible for liver transplantation, if listed. For patients with high prioritization for liver transplantation (e.g., MELD 35), the benefits of TERLIVAZ may not outweigh its risks. Ischemic Events: TERLIVAZ may cause cardiac, cerebrovascular, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia. Avoid use of TERLIVAZ in patients with a history of severe cardiovascular conditions or cerebrovascular or ischemic disease. Discontinue TERLIVAZ in patients who experience signs or symptoms suggestive of ischemic adverse reactions.





TERLIVAZ may cause cardiac, cerebrovascular, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia. Avoid use of TERLIVAZ in patients with a history of severe cardiovascular conditions or cerebrovascular or ischemic disease. Discontinue TERLIVAZ in patients who experience signs or symptoms suggestive of ischemic adverse reactions. Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: TERLIVAZ may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If TERLIVAZ is used during pregnancy, the patient should be informed of the potential risk to the fetus.

Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (10%) include abdominal pain, nausea, respiratory failure, diarrhea, and dyspnea.

Please click here to see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.

ABOUT MALLINCKRODT

Mallinckrodt is a global business consisting of multiple wholly owned subsidiaries that develop, manufacture, market and distribute specialty pharmaceutical products and therapies. The company's Specialty Brands reportable segment's areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, hepatology, nephrology, pulmonology, ophthalmology, and oncology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics; cultured skin substitutes and gastrointestinal products. Its Specialty Generics reportable segment includes specialty generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com.

Mallinckrodt uses its website as a channel of distribution of important company information, such as press releases, investor presentations and other financial information. It also uses its website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding the company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the Investor Relations page of the website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to the website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the Investor Relations page of the website.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELATED TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains forward-looking statements, including with regard to TERLIVAZ and its potential impact on patients. The statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements: satisfaction of regulatory and other requirements; actions of regulatory bodies and other governmental authorities; changes in laws and regulations; issues with product quality, manufacturing or supply, or patient safety issues; and other risks identified and described in more detail in the "Risk Factors" section of Mallinckrodt's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, all of which are available on its website. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date hereof and Mallinckrodt does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

CONTACT

Media Inquiries

Heather Guzzi

Senior Vice President, Green Room Communications

973-524-4112

[email protected]

Investor Relations

Daniel J. Speciale

Global Corporate Controller & Chief Investor Relations Officer

314-654-3638

[email protected]

Derek Belz

Vice President, Investor Relations

314-654-3950

[email protected]

Mallinckrodt, the "M" brand mark and the Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals logo are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company. Other brands are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company or their respective owners.

2023 Mallinckrodt. US-2300189 5/23

References

1 TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection. [Prescribing Information]. Mallinckrodt Hospital Products Inc.

2 Bajaj JS, et al. Low Incidence of Clinically Significant Bradycardia and Arrhythmia in Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Following Terlipressin Treatment: A Pooled Analysis of 3 North American Phase III Clinical Studies. Abstract Presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023. May 2023.

3 Korenblat, K et al. Clinical Responses to Terlipressin in the Subgroup of Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Further Compounded by Alcoholic Hepatitis: Analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III Study. Abstract to be Presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023. May 2023.

4 National Organization for Rare Disorders. Hepatorenal Syndrome. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/hepatorenal-syndrome/. Accessed April 18, 2023.

5 Biggins SW, Angeli P, Garcia-Tsao G, et al. Diagnosis, evaluation, and management of ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome: 2021 practice guidance by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology. 2021;74(2):1014-1048. doi:10.1002/HEP.31884.

6 Bajaj JS, O'Leary JG, Lai JC, et al. Acute-on-chronic liver failure clinical guidelines. Am J Gastroenterol. 2022;1-28.

7 C Pant, B S Jani, M Desai, A Deshpande, Prashant Pandya, Ryan Taylor, R Gilroy, M OIyaee. Heptorenal syndrome in hospitalized patients with chronic liver disease: results from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2002-2012. J of Investig Med. 2016; 64:33-38.

8 United States Census Bureau: Quick Facts. Available at: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045218. Accessed April 18, 2023.

9 Flamm SL, Brown K, Wadei HM., et al. The Current Management of Hepatorenal SyndromeAcute Kidney Injury in the United States and the Potential of Terlipressin. Liver Transpl. 2021;27:1191-1202. https://doi.org/10.1002/lt.26072.

SOURCE Mallinckrodt plc
CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crash Champions, one of the nation's fastest-growing providers of high-quality collision repair service, today proudly announced that founder and CEO Matt Ebert has been named a finalist for the 2023 Ernst & Young (EY) Entrepreneur Of The Year Midwest Award.

Matt Ebert, Founder & CEO of Crash Champions

Now in its 37th year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Award is one of the most competitive and esteemed recognitions, celebrating transformative leaders of high-growth companies building a better world. Ebert was selected alongside 35 Midwest finalists representing the region's preeminent, high-growth businesses.

As a finalist, Ebert, who was also recently named the Bodyshop Business MSO Executive of the Year in 2022, will be recognized by EY at a special event on June 21 where regional award winners will be announced.

"This year's finalists are ambitious entrepreneurs set on transforming their industries and communities," said Ram Ramanan, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Regional Program Director. "They have been carefully selected by our independent panel of judges for their unwavering commitment to their companies, customers and communities, and we are thrilled to recognize them."

As founder and CEO of Crash Champions, Ebert has guided the organization from a single Chicago-based collision repair center, into one of the fastest-growing and most exciting brands in the industry. Today, Crash Champions serves customers and business partners at more than 600 high-quality repair centers in 36 states and Washington DC.

"It's humbling and a true honor to be recognized as a finalist for such a storied award alongside some of the very best entrepreneurs in the country," said Ebert. "As an entrepreneur, everything is rooted in developing and carrying out a clear and inspiring vision. The vision at Crash Champions has always been to build a company with great people at its core. This recognition is a reflection of our passionate team and the distinct culture that has been established at Crash Champions. I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent Crash Champions as part of this program and as a finalist for the 2023 Entrepreneur Of The Year Midwest award."

Crash Champions, under Ebert's leadership, has also achieved Level One Partner status with the National Auto Body Council ("NABC") and regularly contributes to community engagement and philanthropy events across the nation  including more than 50 NABC Recycled Rides giveaways in 2022 alone.

After winners of the Midwest Region award are unveiled at the June 21 event, they will be considered by a panel of national judges for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum.

For more information about Crash Champions, visit crashchampions.com and watch the company's story here .

About Crash Champions

Crash Champions is the largest founder-led multi-shop operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S., serving customers and business partners at more than 600 state-of-the-art repair centers in 36 states. The company was founded in 1999 as a single Chicago repair center by industry veteran and 2022 MSO Executive of the Year, Matt Ebert. For more information, and to locate a local repair center, visit www.crashchampions.com.

SOURCE Crash Champions
HACKENSACK, N.J., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MAX Surgical Specialty Management LLC proudly announces its strategic alliance with Coastal Oral Surgery, joining forces with founding partners Riverside Oral Surgery and Oral Surgery Group to create the ultimate surgeon-led oral and maxillofacial surgical specialty (OMS) platform. Supported by MedEquity Capital, RF Investment Partners, and Kian Capital, MAX is dedicated to building the premier OMS-only specialty platform, emphasizing surgeon autonomy, independent practice identity, and clinical excellence as fundamental organizational values.

Oral Surgery platform: autonomy, strength, comprehensive management services, unparallel patient experience Tweet this (PRNewsfoto/Riverside Oral Surgery) Coastal Oral Surgery Oral Surgery Group (PRNewsfoto/Riverside Oral Surgery)

Dr. Jason M. Auerbach, a nationally recognized surgeon and leader, President of MAX, and founder of Riverside Oral Surgery believes that in the current climate of industry consolidation, it is essential to establish a platform that maintains the highest standards of care and preserves the independence and integrity of the specialty for world class surgeons. "MAX has delivered exactly this for both Riverside and Oral Surgery Group. Our new partnership with Coastal Oral Surgery signals an exciting step forward and helps illuminate a new path for the specialty and mutually inspired oral surgeons."

Butch Marino, CEO of MAX adds: "With the addition of Coastal Oral Surgery, we are taking the next step toward building the premier surgeon-led OMS specialty platform. This strategic partnership with Coastal Oral Surgery reflects our unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, preserving the independence of our practices, and creating a superior patient experience. Together, we will leverage our collective expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and passion for patient care to raise the bar for specialty oral health services we serve."

Established in 1983, Coastal Oral Surgery serves patients in New Jersey's Ocean and Monmouth counties and is currently led by Dr. John P. Soliman and Dr. Daniel Winston. Dr. Soliman says: "We are thrilled to join Riverside and Oral Surgery Group under the MAX brand. We are like-minded practices focused on superior patient experience. Our combined expertise will allow us to provide a broader scope of services while maintaining our individual practice identities and cultures."

MAX's partnership with Coastal Oral Surgery creates an expanded network of 16 New Jersey locations, 25 premier surgeons, and a comprehensive portfolio of services and sub-specialist level care. Partner practices together offer a comprehensive and diverse approach to oral health care, creating an unparalleled patient experience.

For more information on our expanded services and locations, please visit:

www.riversideoralsurger.com, www.coastaloralsurgerynj.com, www.oralsurgerygroup.com and for media inquiries: [email protected].

About MAX Surgical Specialty Management

Based in Hackensack, New Jersey, MAX Surgical Specialty Management is a management services organization that partners with premier oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) practices to drive and support clinical excellence and a superior patient experience with the intention of creating the ultimate surgeon-led OMS platform. Backed by MedEquity Capital, RF Investment Partners, and Kian Capital, MAX is committed to building the region's first OMS-only specialty platform where surgeons' autonomy, independent practice identity, and clinical excellence are organizational imperatives. MAX provides a superior platform to support strategic practice growth as well as scalable, effective, and efficient daily operations required to meet the needs of top performing OMS practices.

About Riverside Oral Surgery:

Founded by Dr. Jason Auerbach in 2007 with a vision to create and constantly redefine the optimal patient experience, Riverside Oral Surgery is The Official Oral Surgeons of the NJ Devils, a NJ Biz Best Places to Work, and the home of Instagram's @bloodytoothguy with close to 200,000 followers. Based in River Edge, New Jersey, Riverside Oral Surgery currently operates multiple state-of-the-art surgical facilities across five counties in the state. Each of the practice's surgeons utilizes cutting-edge technology in digital imaging and scanning and offers a full spectrum of services, from wisdom teeth extractions, dental implants, to surgical management of oral cancer, to temporo-mandibular joint disorder and full reconstructive procedures. Further information is available at www.riversideoralsurgery.com.

About Oral Surgery Group:

Based in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Oral Surgery Group currently operates multiple state-of-the-art surgical facilities across Middlesex County. The Oral Surgery Group, Dental Implants & Wisdom Teeth has been a pillar of dental excellence in central New Jersey since 1948. Oral Surgery Group distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to improving oral health through exceptional care delivered with honesty, respect, compassion, and innovative surgical techniques. The result is a superior patient experience and a positive influence on the health of our community. Further information is available at www.oralsurgerygroup.com.

About Coastal Oral Surgery:

Based in Toms River, New Jersey, Coastal Oral Surgery currently operates multiple state-of-the-art surgical facilities across Ocean and Monmouth counties. Each of the practice's surgeons utilizes cutting-edge technology in digital imaging and scanning and offers a full spectrum of services, from wisdom teeth extractions, dental implants, to surgical management of oral cancer, to temporo-mandibular joint disorder and full reconstructive procedures. Further information is available at www.coastaloralsurgerynj.com.

About MedEquity Capital:

Headquartered in Wellesley, Massachusetts, MedEquity Capital is a healthcare private equity firm that focuses on investing in profitable healthcare services business, most often in the lower middle-market. Since its founding over 20 years ago, MedEquity has invested over $400 million of equity capital, with top decile returns for its investors. Further information is available at www.medequity.com.

About RF Investment Partners:

RF Investment Partners provides capital ranging in size from $5 million to $30 million to support leading domestic, lower-middle-market companies. RF partners with family-owned and private businesses in a variety of situations, including acquisition financing, growth capital investments, recapitalizations, refinancings, and management buyouts. RF's investment professionals have significant experience investing across the capital structure and have the flexibility to structure deals to meet the distinct needs of each company and situation. RF invests in unitranche, second lien, and subordinated debt, alongside preferred and common equity. Further information is available at www.rf-partners.com.

About Kian Capital:

Forging partnerships to ignite growth and build enduring value is what we do. Our goal is to provide flexible financial resources and additional operational horsepower to scale lower-middle-market businesses, realize aspirations and deliver long-term investment returns through genuine partnership. Proud to be recognized on Inc.'s Founder-Friendly Investors list for three consecutive years, Kian is a private investment firm with $825 million of capital under management and 14 current investments. Our team of seasoned investors has over 100 years of collective experience providing transformational capital solutions and board-level strategic and operational guidance to founder/owner operated businesses. Further information is available at www.kiancapital.com.

SOURCE MAX Surgical Specialty Management LLC
WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MCRA, LLC, a leading medical device focused regulatory advisory firm and clinical research organization (CRO) integrating U.S. and International Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Trial Operations, Reimbursement and Market Access, Healthcare Compliance, Cybersecurity, Quality Assurance, and Japan Distribution Logistics (DMAH) is pleased to announce its role in assisting Noctrix Health obtain marketing authorization via a De Novo Request from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the NTX100 Tonic Motor Activation (NTX100 TOMAC) System. The device is indicated to reduce symptoms of primary moderate-severe Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and to improve sleep quality in adults refractory to medications.

The NTX100 TOMAC System is an externally worn medical device that applies low-level electrical stimulation to peripheral nerve fibers in the leg to treat Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). RLS is the second most common sleep disorder in the world, contributing to what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have labeled a public health epidemic. With more than 10% of the Western adult population affected, and 81% of those with clinical RLS approaching their doctor for relief, RLS places a heavy economic burden on the healthcare system. Noctrix Health was granted the breakthrough device designation in May 2020 for use of the NTX100 TOMAC to treat drug-refractory RLS.

MCRA's team of neurology, digital health and biocompatibility experts was retained by Noctrix Health to support strategy, development, and submission of the De Novo Request to the FDA and collaborated with Noctrix Health to resolve all FDA questions during the review of the De Novo. The De Novo Request was submitted in September 2022 and granted in April 2023. This short review period highlights the intensive communication and collaboration between the Noctrix Health, FDA, and MCRA teams to expedite access to the NTX100 TOMAC System for the indicated patients and reduce the symptoms of RLS, improve their sleep quality, and improve their quality of life.

John Doucet, MCRA's Vice President of Regulatory Affairs  Neuromodulation and Evolving Therapies, said, "We are proud to have collaborated with Noctrix Health to achieve this important milestone for the company. The timeline for development, submission, and review of the De Novo request was minimized by MCRA's broad and deep regulatory expertise in Neurology, Digital Health, Cybersecurity, Biocompatibility, and other areas. I want to specifically thank the FDA Office of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices for the collaborative and interactive nature of their review. Their commitment to the spirit of the breakthrough device program played a significant role in expediting patient access to this important new treatment for patients diagnosed with Restless Legs Syndrome."

Shri Raghunathan, CEO at Noctrix Health said, "Working with MCRA's team of experts has been a true pleasure. Our De Novo submission was supported by their wealth of expertise, allowing us to receive marketing authorization in a short period of time. We look forward to continuing to work with MCRA's wide range of experts as we expand in the medical device industry."

MCRA is pleased to continue supporting neurological innovation in the medical device industry by helping clients navigate global regulatory challenges.

About MCRA, LLC: MCRA is the leading privately held independent medical device, diagnostics and biologics Clinical Research Organization (CRO) and advisory firm. MCRA delivers to its client's industry experience, integrating its six business value creators: regulatory, clinical research, reimbursement, healthcare compliance, quality assurance, and distribution logistics to provide a dynamic, market-leading effort from innovation conception to commercialization. MCRA's integrated application of these key value-creating initiatives provides unparalleled value for its clients. MCRA has offices in Washington, DC, Hartford, CT, New York, NY, and Tokyo, Japan and serves nearly 1,000 clients globally. Its core focus areas of therapeutic experience include orthopedics, spine, biologics, cardiovascular, diagnostic imaging, wound care, artificial intelligence, dental, anesthesia, general surgery, digital health, neurology, robotics, oncology, general and plastic surgery, urology, and in vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices and medical device cybersecurity. www.mcra.com

About Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC: Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC (VB), founded MCRA in 2004. VB is headquartered in New York City and specialized in funding venture capital, private equity, and merchant banking activities for the neuromusculoskeletal industry. VB is dedicated to financing healthcare innovation. www.vbllc.com

About Noctrix Health: Noctrix Health is a medical device company committed to developing high-quality, clinically validated breakthrough medical technologies that improve the quality of lives of patients with chronic medical conditions. The NTX100 Tonic Motor Activation (TOMAC) Therapy is the first-in-class, non-pharmacologic therapy for reducing symptoms of primary moderate-severe Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and improving sleep quality in adults refractory to medications. For more information, visit www.noctrixhealth.com.

For more information, please contact:

Alyssa Howard, Vice President, Business Development

Phone: 215.870.3952 | Email: [email protected]

SOURCE MCRA, LLC
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The microfinance market is set to grow by USD 122.46 billion from 2021 to 2026. The market is expected to progress at a CAGR of 11.61% during the forecast period. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current global market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Quick and easy access to credit is one of the major drivers fueling the microfinance market growth. If a financial institution accepts an application, it may take another few weeks or months before the credit is authorized and transferred, and many banks have policies that restrict them from providing loans to certain businesses, such as restaurants and clinics. However, microfinance provides quick and easy access to credit. Hence, the growth of online microfinance platforms has simplified access to funds. Here is an exclusive report about market scenarios and forecast period (2022-2026). Download Sample Report in minutes!

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Microfinance Market

The microfinance market covers the following areas:

Microfinance Market Sizing

Microfinance Market Forecast

Microfinance Market Analysis

The report on the microfinance market provides a holistic update, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as vendor analysis.

Microfinance Market 2022-2026 - Market Dynamics

Rapid growth in APAC is one of the major trends influencing the microfinance market growth. Microfinance institutions, including P2P lending, crowdfunding, and invoice trading, are growing in APAC because of the presence of several SMEs. The number of SMEs has increased significantly in the region. For example, the number of SMEs in China was approximately 18.07 million by the end of 2018. Similarly, according to the data published by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of India , as of March 2020 , there were 63.3 million SMEs present across India . Hence, the growing number of SMEs in APAC is increasing the demand for microfinance services.

Microfinance institutions, including P2P lending, crowdfunding, and invoice trading, are growing in APAC because of the presence of several SMEs. The number of SMEs has increased significantly in the region. For example, the number of SMEs in was approximately 18.07 million by the end of 2018. Similarly, according to the data published by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of , as of , there were 63.3 million SMEs present across . Hence, the growing number of SMEs in APAC is increasing the demand for microfinance services. Inadequate risk management is one of the major challenges impeding the microfinance market growth. Risk management is among the most challenging factors impacting the growth of the global microfinance market, with microcredit establishments addressing marginalized communities, mainly in low-profit and growing countries. Unlike the formal banking system, the lending procedure in microfinance no longer requires any protection. Hence, microfinance establishments are constantly on the threshold of vulnerability.

Microfinance Market 2022-2026: Market Segmentation

This report extensively covers microfinance market segmentation by type (banks and non-banks) and geography (APAC, South America, North America, Europe, and the Middle East and Africa).

The market share growth by the bank segment will be significant during the forecast period. Since MSBs offer significant benefits to low-income groups, the demand for microfinancing is expected to rise during the forecast period. Additionally, the need to provide easy credit and offer small loans to customers without any collateral further increases the preference for MFBs among people. Hence, such factors will drive the segment growth during the forecast period.

This report presents a detailed market study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources through an analysis of key parameters - View a Sample Report

Companies Mentioned

Accion International

Al Amana Microfinance

AL BARAKAH MICROFINANCE BANK

Annapurna Finance P Ltd.

Banco do Nordeste do Brasil SA

Bandhan Bank Ltd.

Cashpor Micro Credit

FINCA International Inc.

Fusion Micro Finance Ltd.

GENTERA S.A.B. de C.V.

Grameen Foundation

IndusInd Bank Ltd.

Kiva Microfunds

Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.

Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Opportunity International

Pacific Community Ventures

Pro Mujer Inc.

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk

Stichting BRAC International

Women World Banking Inc.

Vendor Offerings

Annapurna Finance P Ltd. - The company offers microfinance services such as Group Loans, MSME Finance, Housing Finance, Samarth Loan , Dairy Development Loan, Solar Loans, Consumer Durable Loans, Home Improvement Loan, and PMSVANidhi Loan.

The company offers microfinance services such as Group Loans, MSME Finance, Housing Finance, , Dairy Development Loan, Solar Loans, Consumer Durable Loans, Home Improvement Loan, and PMSVANidhi Loan. Bandhan Bank Ltd. - The company offers microfinance services such as Srishti Loan , which is a group-based individual loan to scale up businesses.

The company offers microfinance services such as , which is a group-based individual loan to scale up businesses. Cashpor Micro Credit - The company offers microfinance services such as Green Micro Credit Initiative, which is a modified microfinance loan product to promote tree plantation.

The company offers microfinance services such as Green Micro Credit Initiative, which is a modified microfinance loan product to promote tree plantation. To get insights about vendors and their offerings, buy now!

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Microfinance Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 11.61% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 122.46 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2021-2022 (%) 9.23 Regional analysis APAC, South America, North America, Europe, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 45% Key countries Mexico, China, India, France, and Peru Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Accion International, Al Amana Microfinance, AL BARAKAH MICROFINANCE BANK, Annapurna Finance P Ltd., Banco do Nordeste do Brasil SA, Bandhan Bank Ltd., Cashpor Micro Credit, FINCA International Inc., Fusion Micro Finance Ltd., GENTERA S.A.B. de C.V., Grameen Foundation, IndusInd Bank Ltd., Kiva Microfunds, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd., Manappuram Finance Ltd., Opportunity International, Pacific Community Ventures, Pro Mujer Inc., PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk, Stichting BRAC International, and Women World Banking 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, Market condition analysis for the forecast period Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Browse for Technavio's Consumer Discretionary Market Reports

Key Topics Covered:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Type



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 09: Parent market



Exhibit 10: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 11: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 12: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2021

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026

Exhibit 13: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 14: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 15: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 16: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

4 Five Forces Analysis

4.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 17: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2021 and 2026

4.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 18: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2021 and 2026

4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 19: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 20: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 21: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 22: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.7 Market condition

Exhibit 23: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2021 and 2026

5 Market Segmentation by Type

5.1 Market segments

Exhibit 24: Chart on Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 25: Data Table on Type - Market share 2021-2026 (%)

5.2 Comparison by Type

Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by Type



Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by Type

5.3 Banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 28: Chart on Banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 29: Data Table on Banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 30: Chart on Banks - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Banks - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.4 Non-banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 32: Chart on Non-banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Non-banks - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 34: Chart on Non-banks - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Non-banks - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.5 Market opportunity by Type

Exhibit 36: Market opportunity by Type ($ billion)

6 Customer Landscape

6.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 37: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

7 Geographic Landscape

7.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 38: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)

7.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 40: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Geographic comparison

7.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 42: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)



Exhibit 44: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.4 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 46: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 47: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 48: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 49: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.5 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 51: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 52: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 53: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.6 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 55: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 56: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 57: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 59: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 60: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 61: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.8 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 62: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 63: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 64: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 65: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.9 Peru - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 66: Chart on Peru - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 67: Data Table on Peru - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 68: Chart on Peru - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 69: Data Table on Peru - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.10 India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 71: Data Table on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 72: Chart on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 73: Data Table on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.11 Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 74: Chart on Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 75: Data Table on Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 76: Chart on Mexico - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 77: Data Table on Mexico - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.12 France - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on France - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 79: Data Table on France - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ billion)

Exhibit 80: Chart on France - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 81: Data Table on France - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 82: Market opportunity by geography ($ billion)

8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

8.1 Market drivers

8.2 Market challenges

8.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 83: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026

8.4 Market trends

9 Vendor Landscape

9.1 Overview

9.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 84: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

9.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 85: Overview on factors of disruption

9.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 86: Impact of key risks on business

10 Vendor Analysis

10.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 87: Vendors covered

10.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 88: Matrix on vendor position and classification

10.3 Annapurna Finance P Ltd.

Exhibit 89: Annapurna Finance P Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 90: Annapurna Finance P Ltd. - Product / Service



Exhibit 91: Annapurna Finance P Ltd. - Key offerings

10.4 Bandhan Bank Ltd.

Exhibit 92: Bandhan Bank Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 93: Bandhan Bank Ltd. - Product / Service



Exhibit 94: Bandhan Bank Ltd. - Key offerings

10.5 Cashpor Micro Credit

Exhibit 95: Cashpor Micro Credit - Overview



Exhibit 96: Cashpor Micro Credit - Product / Service



Exhibit 97: Cashpor Micro Credit - Key offerings

10.6 Grameen Foundation

Exhibit 98: Grameen Foundation - Overview



Exhibit 99: Grameen Foundation - Product / Service



Exhibit 100: Grameen Foundation - Key offerings

10.7 IndusInd Bank Ltd.

Exhibit 101: IndusInd Bank Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 102: IndusInd Bank Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 103: IndusInd Bank Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 104: IndusInd Bank Ltd. - Segment focus

10.8 Kiva Microfunds

Exhibit 105: Kiva Microfunds - Overview



Exhibit 106: Kiva Microfunds - Product / Service



Exhibit 107: Kiva Microfunds - Key offerings

10.9 Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.

Exhibit 108: Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 109: Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 110: Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 111: Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. - Segment focus

10.10 Manappuram Finance Ltd.

Exhibit 112: Manappuram Finance Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 113: Manappuram Finance Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 114: Manappuram Finance Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 115: Manappuram Finance Ltd. - Segment focus

10.11 PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk

Exhibit 116: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Overview

Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Overview

Exhibit 117: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Business segments

Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Business segments

Exhibit 118: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Key offerings

Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Key offerings

Exhibit 119: PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk - Segment focus

10.12 Stichting BRAC International

Exhibit 120: Stichting BRAC International - Overview



Exhibit 121: Stichting BRAC International - Business segments



Exhibit 122: Stichting BRAC International - Key offerings



Exhibit 123: Stichting BRAC International - Segment focus

11 Appendix

11.1 Scope of the report

11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 124: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 125: Exclusions checklist

11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 126: Currency conversion rates for US$

11.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 127: Research methodology



Exhibit 128: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 129: Information sources

11.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 130: List of abbreviations

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SOURCE Technavio
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  A Park Hills man, Thomas J. Wilkinson IV, 56, was sentenced on May 1 to 20 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon.

At the sentencing hearing in front of U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless, the authorities produced evidence that on Feb. 20, 2021, an Illinois State Police (ISP) trooper pulled over a vehicle being driven by Wilkinson that was speeding at approximately 90 mph.

When the trooper approached, he saw what turned out to be crystal methamphetamine in plain view on Wilkinsons lap. During a subsequent search, troopers found more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, other illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a loaded 9mm handgun.

Wilkinson has five prior drug-related convictions in Missouri.

Wilkinson faced statutory penalties of no less than 15 years and up to life imprisonment for the drug-trafficking count; a mandatory consecutive penalty of five years imprisonment for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and up to 10 years imprisonment for possessing a firearm as a felon.

Armed criminals who traffic drugs pose a great risk to the community, including the vulnerable drug addicts on whom they prey, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger. This defendant created an even greater risk when he dangerously drove down one of our busiest interstates while intoxicated and at high speeds. We appreciate the work of our state and federal law enforcement partners in keeping our communities safe.

ISPs arrest of this convicted felon and his sentencing will help keep illegal drugs off the streets and make our communities safer, said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. ISP will continue to work with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Attorneys Office, and all Project Safe Neighborhood partners to combat drug trafficking and gun violence.

The case against Wilkinson is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, making neighborhoods safer.

The Illinois State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seberger represented the government in the prosecution.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. and SUZHOU, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Neuro3 Therapeutics (Neuro3), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative medicines for the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, announced today the signing of an exclusive, worldwide license and option agreement with Lundbeck, a leading pharmaceutical company focusing on the development of innovative medicines treating neurological and psychiatric diseases.

The agreement focuses on activators of KCNQ2, an ion channel that has been clinically validated as a target for the treatment of epilepsy.

Clinical findings suggest that activation of KCNQ2 channels may provide treatment options for other types of neurological disorders including rare forms of epilepsy.

Under the agreement, Neuro3 will receive a worldwide license for intellectual property covering two clinical stage and one pre-clinical stage KCNQ2 activator programs and will be responsible for their further development through clinical proof-of-concept (PoC). Following the completion of the PoC studies, Lundbeck has the option to co-develop and co-commercialize with Neuro3. In addition, Lundbeck has an option to exclusively license back the rights in certain territories.

"We are excited to further the development of these novel KCNQ2 activators. Given the critical role of KCNQ2 in maintaining brain functions and the demonstrated clinical validation of this mechanism, we look forward to evaluating the clinical benefit of these KCNQ2 activators in the treatment of various CNS diseases," said Zheng Li, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of Neuro3 Therapeutics.

"We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Neuro3 that allows us to assess the clinical potential of these KCNQ2 activators by leveraging Neuro3 discovery and early development expertise in the CNS diseases," said Tarek Samad, PhD, SVP, and Global Head of Research at Lundbeck.

Contacts

Lundbeck:

Neuro3:

Thomas Mikkel Mortensen Xiaohong Ye Media Relations Lead, Corp. Communication Media & Communication [email protected] [email protected] +45 30 83 30 24 +1 7347302505 or +86 15995481553

About Neuro3 Therapeutics

Neuro3 Therapeutics is an innovation-driven, CNS focused biopharmaceutical company pursuing a pipeline of innovative therapeutic molecules to address neuroexcitatory and neurodegenerative diseases. The company utilizes cutting edge discovery technologies and platforms, explores novel therapeutic modalities and focuses on targets that are supported by human disease biology and clinical validation, to achieve better probability of success in clinical development. Neuro3 is committed to delivering innovative medicines that can make a real-life difference and improvement in patients around the globe, by translating science into groundbreaking and transformative medicines.

About H. Lundbeck A/S

H. Lundbeck A/S (LUN.CO, LUN DC, HLUYY) is a global pharmaceutical company specializing in brain diseases. For more than 70 years, we have been at the forefront of neuroscience research. We are tirelessly dedicated to restoring brain health, so every person can be their best.

We are committed to fighting stigma and discrimination against people living with brain diseases and advocating for broader social acceptance of people with brain health conditions. Our research programs tackle some of the most complex challenges in neuroscience, and our pipeline is focused on bringing forward transformative treatments for brain diseases. We have research facilities in Denmark and the United States, and our production facilities are in Denmark, France, and Italy.

For additional information, we encourage you to visit our corporate site www.lundbeck.com and connect with us on Twitter at @Lundbeck and via LinkedIn.

SOURCE Neuro3 Therapeutics, Inc.
AUSTIN, Texas, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Upgraded Points recently conducted a nationwide survey to uncover what really grinds the gears of rideshare users. From passengers who refuse to wear a seatbelt to drivers who text behind the wheel, the world of rideshare apps can be filled with annoyances that test the patience of even the most laid-back riders and drivers.

The Most Common Pet Peeves of Rideshare Users What Are Passengers' Worst Behaviors While Ridesharing?

"Rideshare apps have revolutionized the way we get around, especially when it comes to out of town travel," said Alex Miller, Founder of Upgraded Points. "However, the annoyances that come with them, from the perspective of the driver, rider and app itself, can make the ride a bumpy one."

Study Methodology

Upgraded Points surveyed over 3,000 Americans asking a variety of questions regarding annoyances, habits, and spending when using rideshare apps. The team also broke these insights down by state to find each state's ultimate rideshare pet peeve.

Revealing rideshare users' biggest pet peeves

The biggest pet peeve for riders is reckless driving, with over half of survey respondents saying this is a driver's worst offense (55%). The list doesn't stop there though: getting into a smelly vehicle (54%), texting and driving (49%), and drivers that have a bad attitude (49%) all round out the top pet peeve for riders.

53% of rideshare users won't request rides during surge pricing.





3 in 4 riders would rather sit in silence than have conversations with their driver.





71% of rideshare users say Uber is their preferred app, compared to 28% that prefer Lyft.

Cancellations and refunds can be hard to come by

24% of rideshare users say they've been unfairly charged a cancellation fee by a rideshare app. Additionally, 36% of riders say it's difficult to get a refund from a rideshare app if they've been overcharged. Riders are willing to go as far as saying they'd rather discuss religion and politics with their rideshare driver than have multiple drivers cancel on them in a row (62%).

Riders share their worst riding habits

The rideshare industry could not exist without dedicated drivers, of course. And while the riders may have their list of ongoing complaints, they're also aware of their own habits that drivers might find annoying.

30% of rideshare users fail to put on a seatbelt while riding.





27% of users admit to keeping their driver waiting during pick-up.





1 in 4 users say they are too chatty with their driver.





1 in 5 users have told their driver they're leaving a tip but failed to do so.

To view the full survey findings, as well as state-by-state breakdowns, please visit the study HERE .

About Upgraded Points LLC

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that helps to demystify the complex world of travel and credit cards.

Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to help travelers maximize their travel, points, and experiences. Learn more at: UpgradedPoints.com .

Media Contact:

Alex Miller, Founder

1-214-646-8866

[email protected]

SOURCE Upgraded Points
JUNO BEACH, Fla., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The senior management team of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) and NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE: NEP) today announced that they will conduct an investor conference call and webcast today, Monday, May 8, 2023, at 2 p.m. ET to discuss the partnership's outlook. They plan to discuss, among other things, NextEra Energy Partners' financing plans, business plans and long-term distribution per unit growth rate expectations and NextEra Energy's long-term financial expectations.

(PRNewsfoto/NextEra Energy Partners, LP) (PRNewsfoto/NextEra Energy, Inc.)

Beginning at 2 p.m. today, the listen-only webcast will be available for investors and other interested parties by visiting www.NextEraEnergy.com/investors or www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com. The presentation materials may be downloaded at www.NextEraEnergy.com/investors or www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com, beginning at 7 a.m. ET today. For those unable to listen to the live webcast, a replay will be available for 90 days by accessing the links listed above.

In addition, members of the senior management team of NextEra Energy and NextEra Energy Partners plan to meet with investors throughout May. Investors and other interested parties can access a copy of the presentation materials at www.NextEraEnergy.com/investors or www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com.

NextEra Energy, Inc.

NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) is a leading clean energy company headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida. NextEra Energy owns Florida Power & Light Company, which is America's largest electric utility that sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.8 million customer accounts, or more than 12 million people across Florida. NextEra Energy also owns a competitive clean energy business, NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world's largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. Through its subsidiaries, NextEra Energy generates clean, emissions-free electricity from seven commercial nuclear power units in Florida, New Hampshire and Wisconsin. NextEra Energy has been recognized often by third parties for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry on Fortune's 2023 list of "World's Most Admired Companies," recognized on Fortune's 2021 list of companies that "Change the World" and received the S&P Global Platts 2020 Energy Transition Award for leadership in environmental, social and governance. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com, www.FPL.com, www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.

NextEra Energy Partners, LP

NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE: NEP) is a growth-oriented limited partnership formed by NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE). NextEra Energy Partners acquires, manages and owns contracted clean energy projects with stable, long-term cash flows. Headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, NextEra Energy Partners owns interests in geographically diverse wind, solar and energy storage projects in the U.S. as well as natural gas infrastructure assets in Texas and Pennsylvania. For more information about NextEra Energy Partners, please visit: www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com.

Cautionary Statements and Risk Factors That May Affect Future Results for NextEra Energy, Inc.

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but instead represent the current expectations of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NextEra Energy) and Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) regarding future operating results and other future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of NextEra Energy's and FPL's control. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements concerning adjusted earnings expectations and future operating performance and statements concerning future dividends and results of acquisitions. In some cases, you can identify the forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "will," "may result," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "plan," "seek," "potential," "projection," "forecast," "predict," "goals," "target," "outlook," "should," "would" or similar words or expressions. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. The future results of NextEra Energy and FPL and their business and financial condition are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause their actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, or may require them to limit or eliminate certain operations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this news release and the following: effects of extensive regulation of NextEra Energy's and FPL's business operations; inability of NextEra Energy and FPL to recover in a timely manner any significant amount of costs, a return on certain assets or a reasonable return on invested capital through base rates, cost recovery clauses, other regulatory mechanisms or otherwise; impact of political, regulatory, operational and economic factors on regulatory decisions important to NextEra Energy and FPL; disallowance of cost recovery by FPL based on a finding of imprudent use of derivative instruments; effect of any reductions or modifications to, or elimination of, governmental incentives or policies that support utility scale renewable energy projects of NextEra Energy and FPL and its affiliated entities or the imposition of additional tax laws, tariffs, duties, policies or assessments on renewable energy or equipment necessary to generate it or deliver it; impact of new or revised laws, regulations, interpretations or constitutional ballot and regulatory initiatives on NextEra Energy and FPL; capital expenditures, increased operating costs and various liabilities attributable to environmental laws, regulations and other standards applicable to NextEra Energy and FPL; effects on NextEra Energy and FPL of federal or state laws or regulations mandating new or additional limits on the production of greenhouse gas emissions; exposure of NextEra Energy and FPL to significant and increasing compliance costs and substantial monetary penalties and other sanctions as a result of extensive federal regulation of their operations and businesses; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of changes in tax laws, guidance or policies as well as in judgments and estimates used to determine tax-related asset and liability amounts; impact on NextEra Energy and FPL of adverse results of litigation; impacts on NextEra Energy or FPL of allegations of violations of law; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of failure to proceed with projects under development or inability to complete the construction of (or capital improvements to) electric generation, transmission and distribution facilities, gas infrastructure facilities or other facilities on schedule or within budget; impact on development and operating activities of NextEra Energy and FPL resulting from risks related to project siting, planning, financing, construction, permitting, governmental approvals and the negotiation of project development agreements, as well as supply chain disruptions; risks involved in the operation and maintenance of electric generation, transmission and distribution facilities, gas infrastructure facilities, retail gas distribution system in Florida and other facilities; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of a lack of growth or slower growth in the number of customers or in customer usage; impact on NextEra Energy and FPL of severe weather and other weather conditions; threats of geopolitical factors, terrorism and catastrophic events that could result from terrorism, cyberattacks or other attempts to disrupt NextEra Energy's and FPL's business or the businesses of third parties; inability to obtain adequate insurance coverage for protection of NextEra Energy and FPL against significant losses and risk that insurance coverage does not provide protection against all significant losses; a prolonged period of low gas and oil prices could impact NextEra Energy Resources, LLC's (NextEra Energy Resources) gas infrastructure business and cause NextEra Energy Resources to delay or cancel certain gas infrastructure projects and could result in certain projects becoming impaired; risk to NextEra Energy Resources of increased operating costs resulting from unfavorable supply costs necessary to provide NextEra Energy Resources' full energy and capacity requirement services; inability or failure by NextEra Energy Resources to manage properly or hedge effectively the commodity risk within its portfolio; effect of reductions in the liquidity of energy markets on NextEra Energy's ability to manage operational risks; effectiveness of NextEra Energy's and FPL's risk management tools associated with their hedging and trading procedures to protect against significant losses, including the effect of unforeseen price variances from historical behavior; impact of unavailability or disruption of power transmission or commodity transportation facilities on sale and delivery of power or natural gas by NextEra Energy, including FPL; exposure of NextEra Energy and FPL to credit and performance risk from customers, hedging counterparties and vendors; failure of NextEra Energy or FPL counterparties to perform under derivative contracts or of requirement for NextEra Energy or FPL to post margin cash collateral under derivative contracts; failure or breach of NextEra Energy's or FPL's information technology systems; risks to NextEra Energy and FPL's retail businesses from compromise of sensitive customer data; losses from volatility in the market values of derivative instruments and limited liquidity in over-the-counter markets; impact of negative publicity; inability of FPL to maintain, negotiate or renegotiate acceptable franchise agreements with municipalities and counties in Florida; occurrence of work strikes or stoppages and increasing personnel costs; NextEra Energy's ability to successfully identify, complete and integrate acquisitions, including the effect of increased competition for acquisitions; environmental, health and financial risks associated with NextEra Energy Resources' and FPL's ownership and operation of nuclear generation facilities; liability of NextEra Energy and FPL for significant retrospective assessments and/or retrospective insurance premiums in the event of an incident at certain nuclear generation facilities; increased operating and capital expenditures and/or reduced revenues at nuclear generation facilities of NextEra Energy or FPL resulting from orders or new regulations of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; inability to operate any of NextEra Energy Resources' or FPL's owned nuclear generation units through the end of their respective operating licenses; effect of disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit and capital markets or actions by third parties in connection with project-specific or other financing arrangements on NextEra Energy's and FPL's ability to fund their liquidity and capital needs and meet their growth objectives; inability of NextEra Energy, FPL and NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc. to maintain their current credit ratings; impairment of NextEra Energy's and FPL's liquidity from inability of credit providers to fund their credit commitments or to maintain their current credit ratings; poor market performance and other economic factors that could affect NextEra Energy's defined benefit pension plan's funded status; poor market performance and other risks to the asset values of NextEra Energy's and FPL's nuclear decommissioning funds; changes in market value and other risks to certain of NextEra Energy's investments; effect of inability of NextEra Energy subsidiaries to pay upstream dividends or repay funds to NextEra Energy or of NextEra Energy's performance under guarantees of subsidiary obligations on NextEra Energy's ability to meet its financial obligations and to pay dividends on its common stock; the fact that the amount and timing of dividends payable on NextEra Energy's common stock, as well as the dividend policy approved by NextEra Energy's board of directors from time to time, and changes to that policy, are within the sole discretion of NextEra Energy's board of directors and, if declared and paid, dividends may be in amounts that are less than might be expected by shareholders; NextEra Energy Partners, LP's inability to access sources of capital on commercially reasonable terms could have an effect on its ability to consummate future acquisitions and on the value of NextEra Energy's limited partner interest in NextEra Energy Operating Partners, LP; effects of disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit and capital markets on the market price of NextEra Energy's common stock; and the ultimate severity and duration of public health crises, epidemics and pandemics, and its effects on NextEra Energy's or FPL's businesses. NextEra Energy and FPL discuss these and other risks and uncertainties in their annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and this news release should be read in conjunction with such SEC filings. The forward-looking statements made in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and NextEra Energy and FPL undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Cautionary Statements and Risk Factors That May Affect Future Results for NextEra Energy Partners, LP

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but instead represent the current expectations of NextEra Energy Partners, LP (together with its subsidiaries, NEP) regarding future operating results and other future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of NEP's control. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements concerning long-term growth, adjusted EBITDA, cash available for distributions (CAFD) and unit distribution expectations, as well as statements concerning NEP's future operating performance, financing needs and results of acquisitions. In some cases, you can identify the forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "will," "may result," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "plan," "seek," "aim," "potential," "projection," "forecast," "predict," "goals," "target," "outlook," "should," "would" or similar words or expressions. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. The future results of NEP and its business and financial condition are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause NEP's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties could require NEP to limit or eliminate certain operations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: NEP's ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders is affected by the performance of its renewable energy projects which could be impacted by wind and solar conditions and in certain circumstances by market prices; operation and maintenance of renewable energy projects and pipelines involve significant risks that could result in unplanned power outages, reduced output or capacity, personal injury or loss of life; NEP's business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects can be materially adversely affected by weather conditions, including, but not limited to, the impact of severe weather; NEP depends on certain of the renewable energy projects and pipelines in its portfolio for a substantial portion of its anticipated cash flows; NEP may pursue the repowering of renewable energy projects or the expansion of natural gas pipelines that would require up-front capital expenditures and could expose NEP to project development risks; geopolitical factors, terrorist acts, cyberattacks or other similar events could impact NEP's projects, pipelines or surrounding areas and adversely affect its business; The ability of NEP to obtain insurance and the terms of any available insurance coverage could be materially adversely affected by international, national, state or local events and company-specific events, as well as the financial condition of insurers. NEP's insurance coverage does not provide protection against all significant losses; NEP relies on interconnection, transmission and other pipeline facilities of third parties to deliver energy from its renewable energy projects and to transport natural gas to and from its pipelines. If these facilities become unavailable, NEP's projects and pipelines may not be able to operate or deliver energy or may become partially or fully unavailable to transport natural gas; NEP's business is subject to liabilities and operating restrictions arising from environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, compliance with which may require significant capital expenditures, increase NEP's cost of operations and affect or limit its business plans; NEP's renewable energy projects or pipelines may be adversely affected by legislative changes or a failure to comply with applicable energy and pipeline regulations; Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) may claim certain immunities under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act and Mexican law, and the subsidiaries' of NEP that directly own the natural gas pipeline assets located in Texas ability to sue or recover from Pemex for breach of contract may be limited and may be exacerbated if there is a deterioration in the economic relationship between the United States of America and Mexico; NEP does not own all of the land on which the projects in its portfolio are located and its use and enjoyment of the property may be adversely affected to the extent that there are any lienholders or land rights holders that have rights that are superior to NEP's rights or the U.S. Bureau of Land Management suspends its federal rights-of-way grants; NEP is subject to risks associated with litigation or administrative proceedings that could materially impact its operations, including, but not limited to, proceedings related to projects it acquires in the future; NEP's operations require NEP to comply with anti-corruption laws and regulations of the U.S. government and Mexico; NEP is subject to risks associated with its ownership interests in projects that are under construction, which could result in its inability to complete construction projects on time or at all, and make projects too expensive to complete or cause the return on an investment to be less than expected; NEP relies on a limited number of customers and is exposed to the risk that they may be unwilling or unable to fulfill their contractual obligations to NEP or that they otherwise terminate their agreements with NEP; NEP may not be able to extend, renew or replace expiring or terminated power purchase agreements (PPA), natural gas transportation agreements or other customer contracts at favorable rates or on a long-term basis; If the energy production by or availability of NEP's renewable energy projects is less than expected, they may not be able to satisfy minimum production or availability obligations under their PPAs; NEP's growth strategy depends on locating and acquiring interests in additional projects consistent with its business strategy at favorable prices; Reductions in demand for natural gas in the United States or Mexico and low market prices of natural gas could materially adversely affect NEP's pipeline operations and cash flows; government laws, regulations and policies providing incentives and subsidies for clean energy could be changed, reduced or eliminated at any time and such changes may negatively impact NEP's growth strategy; NEP's growth strategy depends on the acquisition of projects developed by NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) and third parties, which face risks related to project siting, financing, construction, permitting, the environment, governmental approvals and the negotiation of project development agreements; acquisitions of existing clean energy projects involve numerous risks; NEP may continue to acquire other sources of clean energy and may expand to include other types of assets. Any further acquisition of non-renewable energy projects may present unforeseen challenges and result in a competitive disadvantage relative to NEP's more-established competitors; NEP faces substantial competition primarily from regulated utility holding companies, developers, independent power producers, pension funds and private equity funds for opportunities in North America; The natural gas pipeline industry is highly competitive, and increased competitive pressure could adversely affect NEP's business; NEP may not be able to access sources of capital on commercially reasonable terms, which would have a material adverse effect on its ability to consummate future acquisitions and pursue other growth opportunities; restrictions in NEP and its subsidiaries' financing agreements could adversely affect NEP's business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; NEP's cash distributions to its unitholders may be reduced as a result of restrictions on NEP's subsidiaries' cash distributions to NEP under the terms of their indebtedness or other financing agreements; NEP's subsidiaries' substantial amount of indebtedness may adversely affect NEP's ability to operate its business, and its failure to comply with the terms of its subsidiaries' indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on NEP's financial condition; NEP is exposed to risks inherent in its use of interest rate swaps; Widespread public health crises and epidemics or pandemics may have material adverse impacts on NEP's business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; NEE has influence over NEP; Under the cash sweep and credit support agreement, NEP receives credit support from NEE and its affiliates. NEP's subsidiaries may default under contracts or become subject to cash sweeps if credit support is terminated, if NEE or its affiliates fail to honor their obligations under credit support arrangements, or if NEE or another credit support provider ceases to satisfy creditworthiness requirements, and NEP will be required in certain circumstances to reimburse NEE for draws that are made on credit support; NextEra Energy Resources, LLC (NEER) and certain of its affiliates are permitted to borrow funds received by NextEra Energy Operating Partners, LP (NEP OpCo) or its subsidiaries and is obligated to return these funds only as needed to cover project costs and distributions or as demanded by NEP OpCo. NEP's financial condition and ability to make distributions to its unitholders, as well as its ability to grow distributions in the future, is highly dependent on NEER's performance of its obligations to return all or a portion of these funds; NEER's right of first refusal may adversely affect NEP's ability to consummate future sales or to obtain favorable sale terms; NextEra Energy Partners GP, Inc. (NEP GP) and its affiliates may have conflicts of interest with NEP and have limited duties to NEP and its unitholders; NEP GP and its affiliates and the directors and officers of NEP are not restricted in their ability to compete with NEP, whose business is subject to certain restrictions; NEP may only terminate the Management Services Agreement among, NEP, NextEra Energy Management Partners, LP (NEE Management), NEP OpCo and NextEra Energy Operating Partners GP, LLC under certain limited circumstances; if the agreements with NEE Management or NEER are terminated, NEP may be unable to contract with a substitute service provider on similar terms; NEP's arrangements with NEE limit NEE's potential liability, and NEP has agreed to indemnify NEE against claims that it may face in connection with such arrangements, which may lead NEE to assume greater risks when making decisions relating to NEP than it otherwise would if acting solely for its own account; NEP's ability to make distributions to its unitholders depends on the ability of NEP OpCo to make cash distributions to its limited partners; if NEP incurs material tax liabilities, NEP's distributions to its unitholders may be reduced, without any corresponding reduction in the amount of the IDR fee; Holders of NEP's units may be subject to voting restrictions; NEP's partnership agreement replaces the fiduciary duties that NEP GP and NEP's directors and officers might have to holders of its common units with contractual standards governing their duties and the NYSE does not require a publicly traded limited partnership like NEP to comply with certain of its corporate governance requirements; NEP's partnership agreement restricts the remedies available to holders of NEP's common units for actions taken by NEP's directors or NEP GP that might otherwise constitute breaches of fiduciary duties; Certain of NEP's actions require the consent of NEP GP; Holders of NEP's common units currently cannot remove NEP GP without NEE's consent and provisions in NEP's partnership agreement may discourage or delay an acquisition of NEP that NEP unitholders may consider favorable; NEE's interest in NEP GP and the control of NEP GP may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent; Reimbursements and fees owed to NEP GP and its affiliates for services provided to NEP or on NEP's behalf will reduce cash distributions from NEP OpCo and from NEP to NEP's unitholders, and there are no limits on the amount that NEP OpCo may be required to pay; increases in interest rates could adversely impact the price of NEP's common units, NEP's ability to issue equity or incur debt for acquisitions or other purposes and NEP's ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; the liability of holders of NEP's units, which represent limited partnership interests in NEP, may not be limited if a court finds that unitholder action constitutes control of NEP's business; unitholders may have liability to repay distributions that were wrongfully distributed to them; the issuance of common units, or other limited partnership interests, or securities convertible into, or settleable with, common units, and any subsequent conversion or settlement, will dilute common unitholders' ownership in NEP, may decrease the amount of cash available for distribution for each common unit, will impact the relative voting strength of outstanding NEP common units and issuance of such securities, or the possibility of issuance of such securities, as well as the resale, or possible resale following conversion or settlement, may result in a decline in the market price for NEP's common units; NEP's future tax liability may be greater than expected if NEP does not generate net operating losses (NOLs) sufficient to offset taxable income or if tax authorities challenge certain of NEP's tax positions; NEP's ability to use NOLs to offset future income may be limited; NEP will not have complete control over NEP's tax decisions; and, Distributions to unitholders may be taxable as dividends. NEP discusses these and other risks and uncertainties in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and this news release should be read in conjunction with such SEC filings made through the date of this news release. The forward-looking statements made in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and NEP undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

SOURCE NextEra Energy Resources, LLC; NextEra Energy Partners, LP
Micro merchants and freelancers across UAE, KSA and Egypt can now sell more by sharing a single link with their buyers over social media platforms.

DUBAI, UAE, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PayTabs, MEASA's award-winning payments powerhouse, today announced that millions of freelancers, home based business owners and micro vendors across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt will now be able to sell even more over social media with ReelsPay, by Paymes.

Micro merchants and freelancers across UAE, KSA and Egypt can now sell more by sharing a single link with their buyers over social media platforms.

Paymes, which serves over a million merchant users across Turkey, Azerbaijan, Egypt, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, just launched its new feature  ReelsPay. The feature serves to increase sales by highlighting all the content available on an instagram Reels Video, making it easier for buyers to view the products on display and then purchase them under one payment link.

Social media platforms such as Instagram allow brands to increase their sales by reaching a wider audience. With the growth of social media marketplaces, it is estimated that Instagram will have 2.5 billion active monthly users by the end of 2023. The Middle East is home to some of the biggest social media markets. In fact, the region makes up 10% of the world's Instagram users, making it a prime platform to see, be seen and of course, generate sales.

In line with customer behaviour and the increasing tendency of millennials, Gen Z to make purchases online or over social media, businesses across the region are keeping up with the social media trend and actively using digital sales channels to offer the best customer experiences.

PayTabs brings the buyer and the seller together by enabling digital payment acceptance through the Social Commerce solution. PayTabs empowers and enables webpreneurs and homepreneurs to accept payments via social media platforms like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, WhatsApp, and other channels. It does this via providing buyers with secure online payment links, QR codes and complimentary online store fronts for faster checkout experience.

To this effect, reels videos are the most active type of content used by individual sellers and businesses for marketing. Statistics reveal that 91% of active Instagram users watch videos on the platform every week. Reels videos occupy a large part of the conversion rate within the Instagram 'Explore Tab,' and it has undoubtedly become one of the most used methods for advertising and product promotion. ReelsPay accelerates the sales process while giving the seller the opportunity to introduce products to users in an organic way. Via the Paymes merchant Dashboard, sellers can create and list their products on the Reels video and then introduce them to their customers or followers by sharing the ReelsPay link over any social media platform.

Commenting on the launch of Reels Pay in the MENA region, Hany Soliman, Regional Head and Operating Partner GCC Region said: "This innovation by Paymes takes the social media purchasing experience to the next level, allowing buyers to purchase all the products they see on a Reels video with a single click, enabling seamless online sales. It further strengthens social media marketing strategies, enabling businesses to benefit. While sellers can reach a wider audience and market their products more cost effectively, they can also include the ease of searching for products in their sales adventures, thanks to ReelsPay. PayTabs is delighted to be the first to bring this innovation to the region via Paymes."

Sabrican Zaim, CEO of Paymes, on this new product that will change the pulse of social commerce, said, "The seller can deliver all the products on Reels to the buyer with a single listing on their shop page, and the buyer can easily buy all the products they see in the Reels video without getting lost on the shop page. ReelsPay, which provides quick purchases with a direct link to the link, meets with users as a big plus of social commerce and makes it easier for them to make sales with Paymes' reliable payment methods. ReelsPay, which provides great convenience for those who want to sell multiple products, such as outfit combinations, which are immensely popular on Instagram, and present their products together on a single page, will undoubtedly be one of the favorite purchasing methods of the digital world."

PayTabs acquired Turkey's largest social commerce platform, Paymes in 2022. Paymes serves as PayTabs social commerce platform across the MENA region.

About PayTabs

The PayTabs Group is an award-winning payments solutions powerhouse founded by Saudi entrepreneur Abdulaziz Al Jouf.

Having processed the first live payment gateway transaction in 2014, today PayTabs processes transactions in multiple currencies and markets, swiftly and securely. By providing the infrastructure for B2B payment solutions, including digital invoicing for businesses, QR code, social media payments, point of sale and switching platforms, PayTabs facilitates seamless e-commerce and social commerce solutions for merchants and super merchants.

Over a decade, PayTabs has custom built and exported a full stack of game changing solutions. These include mobile applications, hospitality, governmental, education, airline, travel, transport, and biller solutions, to interlink the multi-billion-dollar enterprise market chain in the region.

In 2021, PayTabs launched PT Touch, the rst soft POS solution in the MENA market to transform smart phones into merchant point of sale (POS) terminals. In 2022, PayTabs made a leapfrog move to pioneer next generation payments, by launching its home owned, globally validated unified payments and transaction processing platform -PayTabs SwitchOn. PayTabs unified payment processing orchestration enables governments and large-scale originations to become independent payment platforms to serve their industries.

In 2022, the company acquired the Saudi point-of-sale company Digital Pay and Turkiye's social commerce platform Paymes to complement its existing retail portfolio. In early 2023, PayTabs received payment gateway certification from Saudi Payments.

PayTabs has dedicated offices in the GCC including the UAE & Saudi Arabia and presence in many other locales including Turkey, India, and Egypt. The company is an equal opportunities employer with a multi-cultural team. For more milestones visit https://site.paytabs.com/en/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2069897/PayTabs.jpg

SOURCE PayTabs
GOTHENBURG, Sweden, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Emitting only water vapor, hydrogen-powered fuel cell trucks will be an important part of Volvo Trucks' zero exhaust emission product portfolio. Now, the vehicles have passed an important milestone - namely, being test-driven on public roads.

Last year, Volvo Trucks showcased its fuel cell electric trucks for the first time. These zero exhaust emission trucks use hydrogen to produce their own electricity onboard, can travel long distances, making them suitable for longer transport assignments.

Now, the trucks have been tested on public roads for the first time. But not just any public road. To make it extra-challenging, the tests have been conducted above the Arctic Circle in the north of Sweden  in an extremely cold climate.

"Trucks are operating seven days a week and in all types of weather. The harsh conditions on public roads in northern Sweden, with ice, wind and lots of snow, make an ideal testing environment," says Helena Alsio, VP Powertrain Product Management at Volvo Trucks. "I am pleased to say that the tests are going well, confirming tests we carried out beforehand, both digitally and on our confined test track close to Gothenburg."

Fuel cell electric trucks powered by hydrogen will be especially suitable for longer distances and when using only batteries isn't an option: for example, in rural areas with no charging infrastructure.

Commercially available in the second half of this decade

Volvo currently offers the industry's broadest product line-up of battery electric trucks, with six models in series production, catering to a very wide variety of transports in and between cities.

The fuel cell electric trucks will be available in the second half of this decade. Tests with hauliers will start a few years before the commercial launch.

To speed up the development, Volvo Group has joined forces with Daimler to develop and produce fuel cell systems that are tailor-made for heavy-duty vehicles.

Possible to cut CO2 already today

For hauliers who want to offer zero exhaust emission transport already, Volvo Trucks currently offers six different battery electric models as well as trucks that run on renewable fuels, such as biogas.

"We need to act now in order to stop global warming. Regardless of the transport assignments or where in the world our customers are operating, waiting is not an option. In a few years, our customers will be able to completely eliminate CO2 exhaust emissions from their trucks," says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

Facts

Volvo's hydrogen-powered fuel cell trucks will use two fuel cells with a capacity to generate 300 kW of electric power. Green hydrogen is an endless resource that is produced by using renewable energy sources, such as wind, water and sun.

May 8, 2023

LINK to high resolution images

LINK to film about the winter testing of fuel cell trucks

For further information, please contact:

Helena Lind

Media Relations Director, Volvo Trucks

[email protected]

+46 76 5536257

Press images and films are available in the Volvo Trucks image and film gallery at http://images.volvotrucks.com.

Volvo Trucks supplies complete transport solutions for discerning professional customers with its full range of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Customer support is provided via a global network of dealers with 2,300 service points in about 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 12 countries across the globe. In 2022 approximately 145,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of the Volvo Group, one of the world's leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. The group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks' work is based on the core values of quality, safety and environmental care.

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/39/3765232/2039694.pdf 230508-volvo-group-volvo-trucks-tests-hydrogen-powered-electric-trucks-on-public-roads-en https://news.cision.com/ab-volvo/i/volvotrucks-fcev-1860x1050,c3175853 VolvoTrucks FCEV 1860x1050

SOURCE AB Volvo
Forbes Agency Council Is an Invitation-Only Community for Executives in Successful Public Relations, Media Strategy, Creative, and Advertising Agencies

NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Monique Tatum, President and CEO of BPM-PR Firm, a leading independently owned public relations agency, has been accepted into Forbes Agency Council, an invitation-only community for owners of and executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative, and advertising agencies.

Forbes Agency Council Badge

Monique Tatum was vetted and selected by a review committee based on the depth and diversity of her experience. Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors.

"We are honored to welcome Monique Tatum into the community," said Scott Gerber, founder of Forbes Councils, the collective that includes Forbes Agency Council. "Our mission with Forbes Councils is to bring together proven leaders from every industry, creating a curated, social capital-driven network that helps every member grow professionally and make an even greater impact on the business world."

As an accepted member of the Council, Monique Tatum has access to a variety of exclusive opportunities designed to help her reach peak professional influence. She will connect and collaborate with other respected local leaders in a private forum. Monique Tatum will also be invited to work with a professional editorial team to share her expert insights in original business articles on Forbes.com, and to contribute to published Q&A panels alongside other experts.

Finally, Monique Tatum will benefit from exclusive access to vetted business service partners, membership-branded marketing collateral, and the high-touch support of the Forbes Councils member concierge team.

"I am thrilled to be a part of the phenomenal community that is the Forbes Agency Council. It is a testament to my firm's leadership role and expertise within the ever-changing Public Relations landscape," states BPM-PR Firm CEO Monique Tatum. "I look forward to sharing my expert insights through the Forbes Council platforms on a variety of Public relations hot-button topics that we have managed to solve in agency over the years, as well as intriguing topics that are timely within the news for the state of PR, media management and marketing."

For more information on BPM-PR Firm or quotes about the Public Relations industry from Monique Tatum, please contact [email protected] or call 1.877.841.7244.

ABOUT FORBES COUNCILS

Forbes Councils is a collective of invitation-only communities created in partnership with Forbes and the expert community builders who founded Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). In Forbes Councils, exceptional business owners and leaders come together with the people and resources that can help them thrive.

For more information about Forbes Agency Council, visit forbesagencycouncil.com. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit forbescouncils.com.

ABOUT BPM-PR FIRM

BPM-PR Firm (Beautiful Planning Marketing & PR), is a leading public relations firm that is this week celebrating its 18th anniversary. Founded by Monique Tatum in 2005, the firm is known for crafting powerfully unique media messages that move the world by implementing innovative public relations strategies and delivering unparalleled PR campaign results. The company has established itself as a trusted partner to world-renowned global brands, enterprises, unicorn companies, and emerging startups. Industry sectors for the firm include fashion, beauty, lifestyle, technology, wellness, experts, event PR, and corporate communications. BPM-PR Firm's commitment to excellence has been recognized multiple times, notably in 2021 by Forbes as One of America's Best PR Firms. For information on BPM-PR Firm visit http://www.bpm-prfirm.com.

Media Contact:

Alexa Morales

[email protected]

877.841.7244

SOURCE BPM-PR Firm
Prologis, the global leader in industrial real estate, is leveraging Station A's Clean Energy Marketplace to identify qualified installers for solar projects throughout its California building portfolio.

SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The logistics giant has enlisted Station A to host a Request for Quotes (RFQ) to identify regional solar providers to install 116 solar projects throughout its California building portfolio. The RFQ is now accepting proposals and will close on May 15, 2023.

Station A Marketplace project page for Prologis's California warehouse batch RFQ.

Prologis currently is the #2 generator of on-site solar and is aiming to deploy one gigawatt of solar, supported by battery storage, by 2025. To reach this goal, Prologis needs to secure interconnection for a multitude of solar projects in the 100-400 kW size range. To retain the NEM 2.0 categorization, Prologis is looking for qualified installers for projects that have a three-year time frame.

Prologis will leverage Station A's marketplace to find local developers in five regional markets across California. Solar developers looking to bid on this project can create a free account at stationa.com.

Station A's Clean Energy Marketplace has originated 19 MW of onsite renewable projects, approximately $40M in project value, and enables the collection of competitive project bids from contractors and EPCs in a transparent and all-digital way.

Prologis became the first logistics REIT in 2018 with an approved science-based decarbonization target. Then in 2022, it increased its ambition by committing to reach net zero emissions across their value chain by 2040. In addition to their solar goal, the company plans to be carbon-neutral construction by 2025 and reach net zero for operations by 2030.

"Prologis is always looking for ways to improve our service to our customers," says Scott Peattie, vice president, C&I Energy Solutions at Prologis. "We're excited to partner with Station A to help expand our installation partner network. Their large network of contractors and flexible approach to soliciting proposals in the market fit our needs well."

Station A has expanded their capabilities to support additional onsite development options like Community Solar and EV charging projects and non-development options like location-based Community Solar subscriptions and VDER credits.

Building owners or operators interested in soliciting bids for a project through Station A's clean energy marketplace can do so at sta.link/marketplace.

About Station A: Founded in 2018, Station A is a one-stop shop to analyze and procure clean energy .Station A's Portfolio evaluation helps decision-makers instantly analyze and rank their buildings to find the best clean energy project opportunities. The Station A marketplace enables the collection of competitive project bids from qualified providers in a transparent and all-digital way.

SOURCE Station A
Non-FDA approved oxygen delivery systems may be unreliable

CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The medical advisory board of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF), the nation's leading pulmonary fibrosis (PF) research, education, and advocacy organization, has issued a position statement on non-prescription supplemental oxygen.

The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation has issued a position statement on non-prescription supplemental oxygen. Patients living with pulmonary fibrosis should have a prescription for oxygen from their healthcare provider and should only use FDA-approved oxygen delivery devices.

The statement advises the patient community to use only FDA approved oxygen delivery devices as prescribed by their doctor. Individuals should not purchase an oxygen supply device without a prescription from a healthcare provider because doing so may lead to serious health problems. In addition, non-FDA approved oxygen delivery systems may not reliably deliver oxygen.

"Supplemental oxygen therapy is necessary and beneficial to many people living with PF. Oxygen users often prefer portable oxygen concentrators (POC) so they can remain active and mobile. Unfortunately, existing POCs have limitations such as short battery life and inadequate oxygen flow," said Dr. Amy Hajari Case, Senior Medical Advisor for Education and Awareness for the PFF. "However, non-FDA approved portable oxygen concentrators available online are not the solution. Patients should always speak with their healthcare provider before any out-of-pocket purchase of a portable oxygen concentrator."

The PFF's medical advisory board is committed to helping patients who rely on supplemental oxygen. In February, the PFF joined with 23 other patient, professional, and industry groups to advocate for patient-centric legislative changes to supplemental oxygen supply and reimbursement. The PFF's efforts to advocate for improvements in access to oxygen are ongoing.

To review the full PFF statement on Non-prescription Supplemental Oxygen, click here.

More than 250,000 Americans are living with pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease, progressive diseases that cause inflammation, scarring, or both, that damage the lung's capacity to transfer vital oxygen from the air into the blood. Over 50,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. There is no known cure, but many clinical trials are underway.

About the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation

The mission of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is to accelerate the development of new treatments and ultimately a cure for pulmonary fibrosis. Until this goal is achieved, the PFF is committed to advancing improved care of patients with PF and providing unequaled support and education resources for patients, caregivers, family members, and health care providers. The PFF has a three-star rating from Charity Navigator and is an accredited charity by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance. The Foundation has met all of the requirements of the National Health Council Standards of Excellence Certification Program and has earned the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information, visit pulmonaryfibrosis.org or call 844.TalkPFF (844.825.5733).

Contact: Dorothy Coyle

[email protected]

773-332-6201

SOURCE The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation
The M2 utilizes state-of-the-art Digital Engineering, 3D Additive Manufacturing,

and provides Group 5 range from a Group 3 system.

MANASSAS, Va., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- RapidFlight, a Virginia-based unmanned aircraft manufacturing company, is proud to announce the launch of their new UAS, the M2. This innovative UAS features a high efficiency, heavy fuel engine with high-capacity generators to power various sensor, communication, and mission system payloads. Runway independent, the M2 can operate anywhere in the world to support the warfighter or first responder at the point-of-need.

The M2 can operate anywhere in the world, supporting the warfighter or first responder at the point-of-need The M2 UAS in action during a long endurance flight test RapidFlight team members pose with the M2 following a 21-hour long endurance flight in Oregon

"By integrating digital engineering with 3D additive manufacturing, we have been able to create a new class of affordable long range Group 3 UAS. The M2 will usher in a new era for unmanned systems, allowing for the mass production of a high-performance aircraft to meet multiple missions with previously unattainable affordability and production flexibility. This unprecedented flight demonstrates that UAS made with additive manufacturing can have uncompromised performance," said Jay Gundlach, Ph.D., RapidFlight's Chief Executive Officer.

The M2 utilizes state-of-the-art Digital Engineering and 3D Additive Manufacturing making it a unique and adaptable system that can be produced at scale. A 23-60 lb payload capacity provides flexibility with the ability to carry EO/IR, SAR, SIGINT and communication relay payloads. The modular design of the M2 simplifies operational logistics for line replaceable avionics, engines, payloads, and airframe components enabling higher operational rates at lower sustainment costs.

Designed to provide Group 5 range from a Group 3 system, the M2 offers a lightweight alternative without sacrificing endurance. Recently RapidFlight completed a 21-hour continuous flight using the M2 which has been designed to meet a maximum flight time of 36 hours.

"With this flight, we've shown it is possible to build high performance aircraft at low cost and in record time. Equally important is that we can rapidly adapt the design to other customers who might have different payloads or mission needs, without compromising our ability to produce the airplanes affordably and at scale," said Jean-Charles Lede, RapidFlight's Chief Technology Officer.

The M2 accompanies a range of UAS that RapidFlight is designing and manufacturing in their Virginia-based facility. With industry-leading UAS fabrication time, RapidFlight can deliver capability to the field faster than ever with the M2 and future systems.

About RapidFlight

RapidFlight is an integrated designer and manufacturer of unmanned aircraft based in Manassas, Virginia. RapidFlight is accelerating the time from concept to flight while building aircraft systems that meet the demanding challenges, evolving requirements, and tight timelines that are inherent to our national security. Through next-generation manufacturing processes and a team of industry leaders, RapidFlight is ushering in a new era of aircraft manufacturing. For more information, visit www.rapidflight.aero.

Contact: Derek Lewis

Phone: 703-623-4936

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE RapidFlight
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Wheels Up Experience Inc. (NYSE: UP) between November 9, 2022 and March 31, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important June 20, 2023 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action commenced by the Firm.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Wheels Up securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Wheels Up class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=14081 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than June 20, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Wheels Up failed to address any material weaknesses with internal controls; (2) Wheels Up's financial statements from September 30, 2022 to the present included "certain errors" such as understating net loss and overstating goodwill; (3) as a result, Wheels Up would need to restate its previously filed financial statements for certain periods; and (4) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Wheels Up class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=14081 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.

Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm's attorneys are ranked and recognized by numerous independent and respected sources. Rosen Law Firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for investors.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

-------------------------------

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
After 15 years at the conductor's podium, Farmington resident Dan Schunks will direct the Mineral Area Fine Arts Academys Community Band for the final time Tuesday.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Mineral Area Colleges Fine Arts Theater. Admission is $4 or free to anyone with a MAC ID or those 12 and under.

MAFAAs Community Band consists of musicians of a variety of ages.

We have about 60 kids from eighth grade to people who have seen their 70th birthday, said Schunks.

He said the adults are great at working with younger musicians because they encourage them.

At the same time, the music challenges the musicians as well, said Schunks. Its really a nice mix because its a well-balanced piece. We really have everything except a bassoon. Its a very interesting and exciting group.

He said the most enjoyable part of directing the band is making music and listening to the parts come together and being able to communicate the motion in the piece that the composer has imbued in the piece.

When everything begins to come together, it really is a very rewarding thing, said Schunks. Whether youre in a beginning band or community band or whatever, when you feel the ensembles integrity ramp up because they have really gotten beyond the notes, gotten into the soul of the piece, thats something Ill truly miss.

Tuesdays Community Band program will include Claude T. Smiths Emperata Overture; The Dam Busters March, the theme from a British war film; and a symphonic prelude based on the folk song Black is the Color of my True Loves Hair.

The conclusion for the Tuesday evening concert will be Of Sailors and Whales by W. Francis McBeth, a five-moment work based on the characters in Moby Dick.

That particular piece is one of Schunks favorites and is about 18 minutes in length.

Ive never done the symphonic prelude before, he said. I think Ive played it once along the lines as a musician. Its a beautiful, beautiful piece but its been out of print for years. I found it in the library at MAC. Its gorgeous and will be a lot of fun.

Kurt Bauche will direct the Community Band in the fall. He is a retired band director for the Farmington R-7 School District and a member of the MAFAA Board of Directors.

Of his final evening as Community Band conductor, Schunks said, while this season has had its challenges, the audience on Tuesday night will see one of the finest bands assembled in Community Band's history.

"This is a wonderful ensemble, comprised of talent from a wide range of generations and as this is my last concert as the conductor of these talented, endearing, and enduring musicians, I know I will be leaving on a high note, and I thank them for it," Schunks said.
CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ryerson Holding Corporation (NYSE: RYI) (the "Company" or "Ryerson") announced today the closing of an underwritten secondary public offering of 2,630,700 shares of its common stock by an affiliate of Platinum Equity LLC (the "Selling Stockholder"). Ryerson did not offer any shares of its common stock in the offering and did not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the shares offered by the Selling Stockholder.

Concurrently with the completion of the offering, Ryerson repurchased directly from the Selling Stockholder 1,369,300 shares of common stock. The price per share paid by the Company equaled the price at which the underwriter purchased the shares from the Selling Stockholder in the offering, net of underwriting discounts and commissions. The Company funded the share repurchase with cash on hand.

Jim Claussen, Ryerson's Chief Financial Officer, stated "The completed secondary offering by Platinum Equity and concurrent share repurchase by Ryerson, marks the third common equity share sale transaction by Platinum Equity since May of 2022. As a result of these transactions, Ryerson's free-float has increased from 46% to 77% of outstanding shares. In that same time period, Ryerson has returned approximately $175 million to shareholders in the forms of share repurchases and dividends as our capital allocation strategy continues to prioritize long-term shareholder value creation."

The secondary offering was made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (including a prospectus) which was filed by Ryerson with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the Offering may also be obtained by contacting: J.P. Morgan, c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions, 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, New York 11717, by telephone: 1-866-803-9204, or by emailing: [email protected].

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of any securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Ryerson

Ryerson is a leading value-added processor and distributor of industrial metals, with operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and China. Founded in 1842, Ryerson has around 4,200 employees in approximately 100 locations.

Safe Harbor Provision

Certain statements made in this presentation and other written or oral statements made by or on behalf of the Company constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including statements regarding our future performance, as well as management's expectations, beliefs, intentions, plans, estimates, objectives, or projections relating to the future. Such statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "objectives," "goals," "preliminary," "range," "believes," "expects," "may," "estimates," "will," "should," "plans," or "anticipates" or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy. The Company cautions that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and may involve significant risks and uncertainties, and that actual results may vary materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Among the factors that significantly impact our business are: the cyclicality of our business; the highly competitive, volatile, and fragmented metals industry in which we operate; the impact of geopolitical events, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and global trade sanctions; fluctuating metal prices; our indebtedness and the covenants in instruments governing such indebtedness; the integration of acquired operations; regulatory and other operational risks associated with our operations located inside and outside of the United States; the ownership of a significant portion of our equity securities by a single investor group; work stoppages; obligations under certain employee retirement benefit plans; currency fluctuations; and consolidation in the metals industry. Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various factors, including those set forth above and those set forth under "Risk Factors" in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2023, and in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Moreover, we caution against placing undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances, new information or otherwise.

SOURCE Ryerson Holding Corporation
SHENYANG, China, May 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, Shenyang held a conference to release the Three-year Action Plan for Attracting High-caliber Talents & Urban Application Scenarios. With the theme of "Shenyang's Future Comes with You", the conference released nine major urban development visions involving 30 subdivided scenarios and 660 scenario cooperation projects, which is expected to bring investment opportunities worth RMB 700 billion.

At this conference, Shenyang initiated an invitation to the world, with the focus on nine urban visions: building a national modern comprehensive hub, a comprehensive national science center, a national advanced manufacturing center, a regional financial center, a regional cultural and creative center, a national consumption center city, a high-level open platform, a high-quality livable and business-friendly city, a digital twin smart city. A list of urban opportunity scenarios was also released at the conference, according to the Publicity Department of the CPC Shenyang Municipal Committee.

Of the 660 scenario projects, this release focused on 30 major scenarios, including micro and nanotechnology, science and technology headquarters economic agglomeration base, R&D and production of intelligent sensors and chips, unmanned driving technology R&D demonstration, intelligent manufacturing, intelligent construction center in Northeast region, intelligent manufacturing park, high-end industrial machine tool R&D and production base, international logistics hub, international land port food park, logistics warehousing and digital intelligent trading, general aviation operation services, and financial headquarters building.

SOURCE Publicity Department of the CPC Shenyang Municipal Committee
SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Singleton Schreiber partner Ben Siminou heads to court in the Fourth Appellate District on May 8 in an appeal following a headline grabbing mega-church sex abuse scandal.

The lawsuit alleges a youth counselor at the Houston-based Grace Community Church molested Mr. Siminou's client ("John Doe"), then hid this abuse for years from parents and authorities.

According to the complaint, beginning in July 2009, Joel Davisthe director of the church's youth and performing-arts programconfessed to a church pastor that, while on a trip to San Diego for a dance camp, he sexually abused John (then a minor) while he slept. Davis was not fired, and was allowed to continue serving as the director of youth-based programs at the church.

In 2010, John, now six-weeks past his 18th birthday, attended another trip to California for a dance camp. Davis was once again the lone chaperone in a hotel suite full of boys. According to the complaint, during that trip, Davis again molested John while he slept. The next day, Davis confessed to the church's most senior pastors, but still was not fired. The pastors later admitted they did not remove Davis because they were afraid the congregation would discover what happened if they did.

John and his family did not discover the abuse for several years. They were only made aware of the second incident when, after hearing rumors, John confronted Davis, who then confessed to the second incident in 2010. Even then, the church led John to believe there was only one incident, and continued to cover up the first incident for several more years until John told his parents, who then confronted Davis and the church.

"My client put his trust in these ministers, in the hope they would help him become a better person," said Ben Siminou, partner at Singleton Schreiber. "Instead, they put the church's interests above his welfare by exposing him to a known sex offender, then keeping his abuse a secret for years. The church not only put my client in harm's way, they betrayed his trust."

The case was thrown out by the trial court on the eve of trial, but Mr. Siminou is fighting to give the family the justice they deserve.

This appeal is John Doe v. Grace Community Church, Superior Court for San Diego County, Case No. 37-2017-00002921-CU-PO-NC. The sex abuse survivor is referred to as "John Doe" to protect his anonymity.

About Ben Siminou

Ben Siminou is a certified appellate attorney and head of the firm's Motion, Writs & Appeals practice group where he handles motions and appeals for trial lawyers inside and outside the firm. Ben has an extraordinarily high winning percentage in the appellate courts, with notable wins in the California Supreme Court, Nebraska Supreme Court, Ninth Circuit, and the California Court of Appeal. Ben has been even more successful with law-and-motion in trial courts. In 2021 and 2022 alone, Plaintiffs recovered over $75 million in cases in which Ben defeated a dispositive motion.

About Singleton Schreiber

With over 200 employees and offices throughout the western United States, Singleton Schreiber has represented more than 12,000 victims of utility fires and has recovered approximately $2 billion in settlements and verdicts for its clients. The firm currently represents thousands of victims of the numerous fires in California, New Mexico, and Oregon. The firm's dedication to obtaining justice for those impacted by toxic conditions and environmental hazards sets it apart from the competition. The firm is also a premier personal injury firm, obtaining top results for clients, including more than $100 million in verdicts in 2022.

SOURCE Singleton Schreiber
GUANGZHOU, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 133rd Canton Fair's offline exhibition has drawn to a close, marking a significant milestone in the return to normalcy after the pandemic. With an active attendance of overseas buyers, numerous new product launches and better-than-expected export transactions achieved, the event has been hailed as a triumph. After that, the online platform of the 133rd Canton Fair continues to operate normally.

"Through its efficient, safe, digital, and green operations, the 133rd Canton Fair has successfully served as a positive force in promoting stable foreign trade scale and structure, all-round opening up, and the creation of a new development pattern," said Xu Bing, spokesperson and Deputy Director General of the China Foreign Trade Centre.

The 133rd Canton Fair witnessed a remarkable turnout of international buyers from 229 countries and regions, with 129,006 attendees from 213 countries and regions who attended offline. The Fair welcomed a diverse range of 55 industrial and commercial organizations, such as the prestigious Malaysia-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, CCI France Chine, and China Chamber of Commerce & Technology Mexico. Over 100 leading multinational companies, including Wal-Mart from the United States, Auchan from France, Metro from Germany, organized buyers to attend the Fair. The Fair's online platform saw a surging attendance of 390,574 overseas buyers.

Exhibitors at this year's event uploaded a staggering 3.07 million exhibits, including over 800,000 new products, roughly 130,000 smart products, 500,000 green and low-carbon products, and more than 260,000 products with independent IPR. The Canton Fair, a resounding success, features over 300 debut events for the unveiling of new products. From high-end to intelligent, customized to branded, and green low-carbon goods, the Fair demonstrated China's manufacturing prowess and its commitment to excellence. Global buyers are impressed with the vast array of products on display, which highlighted China's resilience and vitality in foreign trade. It's clear that China's leading manufacturers are out in full force, showcasing the latest and greatest in creativity and ingenuity.

The export transactions closed at the 133rd Canton Fair onsite reached 21.69 billion USD, an achievement better than expected. In addition, many buyers have also appointed factory visits and expected to reach more cooperation in the future.

For more information about Canton Fair, please visit https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US or contact [email protected].

SOURCE Canton Fair
Funds Allocated for Affordable Housing for Those Who Have Experienced Homelessness

SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Delphinium Foundation, a San Diego-based philanthropic organization, along with Mark Schmidt and Randy Williams, real estate developers and philanthropists, announce $425,000 of cumulative donations to Father Joe's Villages in the past four years. Demonstrating a commitment to ending homelessness in San Diego, the majority of the $425,000 donations from Schmidt, Williams, and The Delphinium Foundation were part of the capital campaign for the building of Saint Teresa of Calcutta Villa, an affordable housing community by Father Joe's Villages.

Philanthropist Mark Schmidt states, "We believe wholeheartedly in the mission of Father Joe's Villages, and are happy to play our role in helping to give our neighbors a brighter future. We hope that everyone who comes through the doors of the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Villa will find new opportunities and a better life."

About Father Joe Carroll

Schmidt has made numerous contributions over the years to Father Joe Carroll's inspiring work. For 40 years, Carroll was devoted to helping people experiencing homelessness in San Diego. It began in 1982, when parish priest Father Joe Carroll was tasked with taking over running the St. Vincente de Paul thrift store in downtown San Diego, and turning a nearby parking lot into a homeless center. In 1987, Carroll's innovative plan materialized as the St. Vincent de Paul Center opened, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing homelessness by integrating housing and services into one location. In 1988, the center was given the World Habitat Award, which recognized that it enabled clients to "return to mainstream society with self-assurance and dignity." It also elicited national media attention from Reader's Digest and 60 Minutes. Through the ensuing decades, Carroll became a San Diego icon, who raised tens of millions of dollars as the center's services expanded, and he helped change countless lives. In 2015, the center was renamed Father Joe's Villages in his honor. While Carroll passed away in 2021, his legacy continues through the work of his namesake.

About Saint Teresa of Calcutta Villa

In naming its new affordable housing building after Saint Teresa of Calcutta, Father Joe's Villages honors the compassion and selflessness she demonstrated throughout her life. Saint Teresa of Calcutta (also known as Mother Teresa) was a Roman Catholic missionary and nun who devoted her life to helping others. For over 45 years, she aided the poor, sick, orphaned, and dying. In keeping with her spirit of service and charity, Father Joe's Villages has provided affordable housing and comprehensive support services to help hundreds of thousands of people move off the streets and into homes of their own.

About the Affordable Housing Community

Located at 14th & Commercial Streets in downtown San Diego, the 14-story Saint Teresa of Calcutta Villa opened in January 2022. The affordable housing community features two residential towers with 407 apartments, including 80 units dedicated to serving veterans. The new affordable community is part of the Father Joe's Villages' Turning the Key Initiative, which aims to build 2,000 units of affordable housing for people who have experienced homelessness.

About Father Joe's Villages

Father Joe's Villages aim to prevent and end homelessness, one life at a time. Father Joe's Villages was established in 1950 at a small chapel in downtown San Diego to serve San Diegans experiencing homelessness and poverty. Today, Father Joe's Villages has grown to include a comprehensive campus and programs that house over 2,000 people nightly. For more information, visit: https://my.neighbor.org/.

Media Contact: Beth Binger

BCIpr

Mobile: (619) 987-6658

[email protected]

SOURCE The Delphinium Foundation
LONDON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Key Takeaways

Skin care products market is anticipated to amplify with a CAGR of +5% over the assessment timeline.

Increased awareness about the benefits of skin care products and growing disposable income are major factors boosting the market growth.

Asia Pacific followed by North America and Europe is anticipated to lead the market in terms of revenue share.

followed by and is anticipated to lead the market in terms of revenue share. The major companies operating in this market are going for strategic mergers & acquisitions, new launches, and partnerships to stay ahead in the competition.

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Global Skin Care Products Market Outlook (2022-2029)

The global skin care products market is expected to reach ~$180 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of +5% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

Competitive Hierarchy

Major players in the global skin care products market are AVON PRODUCTS INC., BEIERSDORF AG, COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY, JOHNSON & JOHNSON SERVICES INC., KAO CORPORATION, L'OREAL S.A., PROCTER & GAMBLE, SHISEIDO COMPANY, THE ESTEE LAUDER COMPANIES INC., and UNILEVER PLC.

Segmental Outlook

Based on Product, the global skin care products market is segmented as Face Creams & Moisturizers, Cleansers & Face Wash, Sunscreen, Body Creams & Moisturizers, Shaving Lotions & Creams,

Others), By Gender Male and Female, By Distribution Channel Supermarkets & Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Pharmacy & drugstore, Online, and Others

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Region-Wise Outlook

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the largest market for skin care products, accounting for over 40% of the global market share, followed by North America and Europe. The market is highly competitive, with several large and small players operating in the industry. The skincare product market in Asia Pacific is expected to benefit from the expansion of the chemical industry in India and China, which are both supported by regulatory measures that ensure consistent access to raw materials for manufacturers. China is a major contributor to the growth of the global cosmetics and skincare products market, both in terms of consumption and production. Additionally, various government policies in China are promoting the demand for skincare products in the country.

North America

In North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, consumers are willing to pay a premium for brightening, anti-aging, and glowing skincare products. This has led to an increase in demand for personalized beauty solutions, driven by a growing awareness of specific ingredients

Elaborating The Key Trends and Dynamics of This Industry

The skin care products market is influenced by several trends and drivers. One of the major trends is the growing demand for natural and organic skin care products. Consumers are becoming more conscious about the ingredients used in skin care products and are opting for products that are free from harmful chemicals. Another trend is the rising popularity of anti-aging products, as consumers are looking for products that can help them maintain youthful and healthy skin.

Major Growth Drivers

Increased awareness of benefits of skin care products: The skin care products market has seen significant growth in recent years due to increased awareness about the benefits of skin care products, growing disposable income, and changing consumer preferences. The market includes a wide range of products such as creams, lotions, serums, masks, and sunscreens, among others.

Growing consumer disposable income: The key drivers of the market include increasing awareness about the benefits of skin care products, growing disposable income, and changing consumer preferences. Consumers are willing to spend more on high-quality skin care products, which has led to the growth of premium and luxury skin care product segments.

Challenges

High cost and availability of counterfeit products: Availability of counterfeit products and the high cost of premium and luxury skin care products. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the market, as consumers have cut back on discretionary spending due to economic uncertainty.

Regulatory and legal issues: The skin care products market is subject to several regulatory and legal issues. For instance, in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the labeling and safety of cosmetics and personal care products. In Europe, the European Union (EU) has established regulations for the registration, evaluation, and authorization of chemicals used in cosmetics. Manufacturers also need to comply with local laws and regulations in the countries they operate in.

Opportunities

The skin care products market presents several opportunities and threats for players operating in the industry. One of the major opportunities is the growing demand for skin care products in emerging markets such as India, China, and Brazil. The increasing adoption of western lifestyles and rising disposable income in these markets is expected to drive demand for skin care products.

Restraints

Various regulatory and legal issues: The skin care products market is subject to several regulatory and legal issues. For instance, in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the labeling and safety of cosmetics and personal care products. In Europe, the European Union (EU) has established regulations for the registration, evaluation, and authorization of chemicals used in cosmetics. Manufacturers also need to comply with local laws and regulations in the countries they operate in.

On Special Requirement Skin Care Products Market Report is also available for below region:

North America

U.S, Canada

Europe

Germany , France , U.K., Italy , Spain , Sweden , Netherland, Turkey , Switzerland , Belgium , Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

South Korea , Japan , China , India , Australia , Philippines , Singapore , Malaysia , Thailand , Indonesia , Rest Of APAC

Latin America

Mexico , Colombia , Brazil , Argentina , Peru , Rest of Latin America

Middle East and Africa

Saudi Arabia , UAE, Egypt , South Africa , Rest Of MEA

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Major Developments

Acquisitions

In January 2022, Procter & Gamble announced its acquisition of Tula, a luxury skincare brand that focuses on clean beauty and incorporates probiotic extracts and superfoods in its products. Tula's line of skincare products aims to enhance skin balance, soothe irritation, and improve hydration. As part of the acquisition, P&G Beauty will work closely with the Tula team to support the brand's growth and expand its product offerings.

Partnerships

In January 2022, L'Oreal and Verily entered into a partnership in the beauty industry to improve skin health. This innovative collaboration aims to develop a better understanding of skin and hair aging mechanisms through two initiatives. The partnership will also guide L'Oreal's precision beauty technology strategy and product development, enabling the company to stay ahead of the competition in the skincare market.

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MOORPARK, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Priyalal Wijewarnasuriya is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the Field of Technology.

A fascination with mathematics drew Dr. Wijewarnasuriya to the technology field. As part of his core beliefs, the doctor asserts being a competent physicist is dependent on a foundation in mathematics. He began his educational journey at University of Colombo in Sri Lanka where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics (First Class). He then attended Illinois Institute of Technology where he obtained a Master's degree in semiconductor physics and received a Doctor of Philosophy in semiconductor physics at the University of Illinois Chicago.

A project scientist, Dr. Wijewarnasuriya joined Teledyne Imaging Sensors, a company that offers a wide variety of imaging products, including custom products integrated with other electrical and camera systems, since 2019. Prior to his current post, he was a member of the technical staff at the Rockwell Scientific Center, CA. where he was a member of the team dedicated to the demonstration of novel large-format infrared focal plane arrays for tactical and strategic military applications, as well as for astronomy.

A leader in the field, Dr. Wijewarnasuriya also led the development of the next generation of infrared materials and devices for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL). He was the Team Leader of the "IIVI Materials and Devices Team," EO/IR Materials and Devices Branch of SEDD at the U.S. ARL and was a scientist with the U.S. Army for more than 20 years.

A testament to his expertise in technology, Dr. Wijewarnasuriya is the author or coauthor of more than 300 papers in the open technical literature and two book chapters and has presented his work at numerous national and international conferences. The doctor is a member of the board for the Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers and also served on the program committee for the U.S. Workshop on Physics and Chemistry of II-VI Materials.

Dr. Wijewarnasuriya has conducted extensive research on infrared sensing materials and was recognized with an award on "dislocation reduction in mercury cadmium telluride infrared materials grown on larger area scalable silicon substrates" from the United States of the Army. In the future, Dr. Wijewarnasuriya hopes to have continued success in the field of infrared sensing and attributes his success to his dedication. In his spare time, he enjoys woodworking and photography.

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]

SOURCE The Inner Circle
SHENZHEN, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wuben, the easy carry light innovator, has announced that it will launch its latest product, X3, also known as The Owl, an EDC flashlight with a 180 rotating head, on Kickstarter on May 10th, 2023. The campaign will last till 10 a.m. EST on June 9th.

"As an EDC flashlight brand with years of industry experience, WUBEN has always been committed to innovation and invested in the research and development of new products," said Asim, CEO of WUBEN. "Breaking through conventions and addressing user pain points is one of the driving forces behind the creation of the X3. We believe our easy-carry light X3 will become a new must-have companion for outdoor enthusiasts. We are also open for feedback from our users, as we create products for users' needs."

With the 180 swivel head, the X3 flashlight provides effortless flexibility to adjust the direction of the light source. Whether held in hands or clipped onto a jacket pocket, it offers adaptable illumination for various activities like work, daily life, and adventures.

Wuben X3 is a waterproof flashlight with an IP65 waterproof rating. It is also a high lumen flashlight with 1200 lumens. The X3 is also lightweight and easy to operate, providing a better user experience. Weighing only 70g, the X3 can be clipped onto the backpack of outdoor enthusiasts, freeing up their hands and helping them move more easily at night. It can also be clipped onto the brim of a cap when walking the dog at night, providing light without adding extra weight. The magnetic tail cap design allows it to be conveniently attached to any iron object, such as meter boxes or car hoods.

The X3 is known as The Owl due to its owl-shaped design. Its complex manufacturing process, including Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, semi-transparent housing, wireless charging, night glow, and breathing light, makes it highly functional while maintaining an aesthetic appeal. The Wireless Charging Box is a multi-functional accessory that serves as both a wireless charging and protective case and can also function as a power bank to charge other devices. Additionally, the diffuser softens the light, seamlessly transforming the X3 into a camping lantern, tent light, or bedside nightlight.

As a combination of emergency lighting and charging equipment, the X3 is an essential product for outdoor enthusiasts. With the longest battery life of up to 100 days, the X3 solves the problem of users' phone battery anxiety. The digital display design also ensures users have a clear understanding of the battery level, offering a useful reference for organizing their itinerary during outdoor activities, such as hiking.

The X3 is the latest addition to WUBEN's highly acclaimed Lightok series. The series, also known as the X series, was first introduced in 2022 and has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional quality. The first product of the series, the X0, has earned high praise from both professional outdoor enthusiasts and flashlight enthusiasts alike. Then The X1 and X2 were released in late 2022. The X2 was tailored for EDC flashlight players and was met with great success through crowdfunding, exceeding its expected crowdfunding goal. This demonstrated the strong support for innovative products from users.

With its sleek and compact design, the X3 is poised to appeal to a much broader audience, including female users, and is an ideal gift option. WUBEN's Lightok series has been trusted and known for its superior quality and dependable performance. The X3 is no exception, and it is expected to continue the tradition of excellence that has made the series so popular.

About WUBEN LIGHT

Established in 2016, WUBEN has gained recognition for producing high-quality EDC flashlights, rechargeable LED flashlights, and bike lights. The brand's founder is a passionate outdoor enthusiast who was inspired to create WUBEN after discovering that his friends carried heavy and low-quality flashlights during their outdoor adventures. WUBEN is an innovator of easy carry lights (ECL) and has achieved the Guinness record for the brightest and largest flashlights. A brand trusted by outdoor enthusiasts, WUBEN has expanded to over 30 countries and regions worldwide, with a commitment to making lighting more portable, travel lighter, and outdoor adventures more refined.

For more information, please visit: https://www.wubenlight.com/

Or follow us on social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WubenLightWorldwide

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wubenlightworldwide/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wubenlight

CONTACT:

Abigale

[email protected]

SOURCE WUBEN LIGHT
MANTENO, Ill., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Urban Farmer, a Paine Schwartz Partners portfolio company and leading manufacturer of better-for-you, plant-based specialty dough products, today announced that Mark Fleming has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1, 2023. Mr. Fleming succeeds Steve Jungmann, who is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Jungmann will remain with the company as a strategic advisor to support a seamless transition.

Mr. Fleming brings a 25-year record of driving sales and profitable growth for branded, private label and food service businesses at leading CPG companies. Over the course of his career, he has managed iconic brands, including Heinz ketchup, Smart Ones frozen meals, A1 steak sauce, Honey Bunches of Oats cereal, Lysol cleaning products and Lofthouse cookies.

"Mark is an accomplished executive in the food co-manufacturing and baked goods industries, and we are pleased to appoint him as the company's next CEO," said Betsy Holden, Chair of the Board. "Over the last two years, Urban Farmer has made significant strides solidifying its position as the leader in the better-for-you frozen food space. We believe that Mark's deep operational expertise and relevant industry experience will enable him to successfully lead the company as it begins its next phase of growth. We are grateful to Steve for his leadership and the significant role he has played in expanding customer relationships, driving rapid growth and building a high caliber team."

"I am thrilled to become the CEO of Urban Farmer, a company I have admired for being a leader in the growing better-for-you space," said Mr. Fleming. "I look forward to working closely with my colleagues on the leadership team, our partners at Paine Schwartz and the rest of Urban Farmer's talented employee base. Together, we will build on the company's strong foundation and drive sustainable growth by innovating, enhancing efficiency and providing customers the high-quality, better-for-you products they expect from Urban Farmer."

"It has been a privilege to serve as Urban Farmer's CEO, and I am proud of what we have achieved together," said Mr. Jungmann. "As I step away from the company for personal reasons, I want to thank the tremendous Urban Farmer team for their support, hard work and dedication. With the strong foundation we have built, the Board and I have agreed that now is the right time to transition the company's leadership. Urban Farmer has significant opportunities still ahead, and I look forward to working with Mark to ensure a smooth transition for all our stakeholders."

About Mark Fleming

Mr. Fleming joins Urban Farmer from TreeHouse Foods, a multinational food processing company specializing in producing private label packaged foods, where he held positions of increasing responsibility since 2016. Most recently, Mr. Fleming served as President, Meal Preparation Division, leading a $3.2 billion portfolio spanning 16 high-penetration food categories with full P&L responsibility. Prior to this role, he led other TreeHouse Foods divisions as President, Baked Goods Division, and President, Meals Division. Mr. Fleming joined TreeHouse Foods through the company's acquisition of ConAgra's Private Brands division. At ConAgra, Mr. Fleming was the Vice President and General Manager of the Retail Bakery business from 2013 to 2016. Prior to ConAgra, Mr. Fleming served in various roles at the H.J. Heinz Company from 2008 to 2013, culminating in his position as Vice President, Food Service Ketchup, where he managed an $800 million portfolio and developed and led the execution of brand and channel strategy. He also served as Director, Smart Ones Frozen Nutritional Meals, and Director, Frozen Snacks, for Heinz. Earlier in his career, Mr. Fleming served in various roles at Kraft Foods Inc., Reckitt Benckiser and Coca-Cola Fountain. Mr. Fleming holds an M.B.A. from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business and a B.A. from Franklin & Marshall College.

About Urban Farmer

Founded in 2013 and based in Manteno, Illinois, Urban Farmer is a fully integrated manufacturer of better-for-you, plant-based specialty dough products. Its innovative and differentiated portfolio of plant-based specialty dough products includes pizza crusts, topped pizzas, flatbreads, breadsticks, cheese bread, tortillas, empanadas and sandwich buns. The Company has a diverse, rapidly expanding blue-chip customer base, including the leading better-for-you pizza brands and major retailers across North America. The Company's state-of-the-art gluten-free facilities meet the highest levels of food safety protocols and have the capabilities to scale and meet evolving customer needs.

About Paine Schwartz Partners

A global leader in sustainable food chain investing, Paine Schwartz Partners is a private equity firm focused exclusively on investment opportunities in the fast-growing, dynamic global food and agribusiness sectors. The firm's investment, operations and finance professionals invest throughout cycles across the food and agribusiness value chain, and bring a collaborative and active management approach to portfolio companies. For further information, please see www.paineschwartz.com.

Media Contacts:

Andy Brimmer / Aaron Palash

Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher

+1 212-355-4449

SOURCE Paine Schwartz Partners
The growth of the global user generated content platform market is driven by factors such as increase in use of influencer marketing, the rise in demand for authentic content, and uniqueness and cost-effectiveness of user generated content

PORTLAND, Ore., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "User Generated Content Platform Market by Product Type (Blogs, Websites, Advertising and Promotions, Social Media, Audio and Video, Others), by End User (Individual, Enterprises): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032". According to the report, the global user generated content platform industry generated $4.7 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $71.3 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 31.6% from 2023 to 2032.

Prime determinants of growth

The growth of the global user generated content platform market is driven by factors such as increase in use of influencer marketing, the rise in demand for authentic content, and uniqueness and cost-effectiveness of user generated content. However, the high requirement for supervision is a major factor that hampers the growth of the market. Moreover, development of AI and machine learning presents new opportunities in the coming years.

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Covid-19 Scenario

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the demand & growth of the user generated content platform market.

With people spending more time at home due to lockdowns and social distancing measures, there was a significant increase in user generated content across various platforms. This led to a surge in engagement on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, which has been a positive development for businesses and content creators who rely on these platforms to reach their audiences.

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The audio and video segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on product type, the audio and video segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for around one-third of the global user generated content platform market, due to the popularity of the video and audio based content on the UGC platforms. However, the social media segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 36.9% from 2023 to 2032, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, due to a rise in the number of social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.

The enterprises segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on end user, the enterprises segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-thirds of the global user generated content platform market, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, due to the increase in the user generated content for the promotion and marketing of the products and services. However, the individual segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 34.4% from 2023 to 2032, as UGC platforms are becoming the source of revenue generation for the users.

Asia-Pacific to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, North America held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly two-fifths of the global user generated content platform market, due to the presence of key players and the rise in spending on UGC platforms in the region. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 35.6% from 2023 to 2032, and is likely to dominate the market during the forecast period, due to rapid technological advancements, and the popularity of social networking sites in emerging economies, such as China and India.

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Leading Market Players: -

Brandbassador,

CrowdRiff,

Grin Technologies Inc.,

Monotype Imaging Inc.,

Pixlee TurnTo,

Taggbox.com,

TINT,

Upfluence,

Wyng, Inc.,

Yotpo

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players of the global user generated content platform market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others 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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Two members of the Bonne Terre Police Department traveled to Jefferson City Friday to pay tribute to the memory of fallen fellow officer Patrolman Lane Burns and seven other officers slain in 2022, in addition to three more who have been killed in the line of duty so far this year. The fallen officers names were added to the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial and unveiled in a state ceremony.

Governor Mike Parson ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome and Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to be lit blue from sunset on Friday for a candlelight vigil, until sunrise on Saturday when a formal ceremony took place to honor the fallen officers and their surviving family, friends and comrades.

The annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers were held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial on the grounds of the Capitol overlooking the Missouri River.

Bonne Terre Police Chief Doug Calvert and Police Lieutenant Bill Stegall made the trek to the capitol city to join Burns parents, Joe and Julie Burns, for Fridays vigil and Saturdays ceremony.

Calvert said he had visited the memorial before, but he had hoped he would never see Bonne Terre represented on the circular monument. He saw Burns plaque for the first time on Friday.

My Great Uncle John's [Goff's] there, he was killed on 11-4-53. He was the police chief in Ironton, shot with a 30 caliber rifle on duty. And so, I've been to it before," he said. "They put the bronze plaques on there with the officers names and departments, and when I saw the words Bonne Terre in bronze, I just... it was hard."

The next day for the induction ceremony, Calvert said, he and Stegall joined Burns family.

Ive been looking into it, and as far back as Ive looked, this is the first death in the line of duty Bonne Terres had, Calvert said. As much as Im glad he was honored, Id rather his name didnt warrant a place on the memorial.

Stegall shared the same sentiment, adding it was a bittersweet moment to see Burns memory so honored.

We got to the Memorial, and that was the first time we saw Lanes plaque, it was pretty tough. Walking around there and seeing that, Ive been to several times and you always go and pay respect to the officers, he said. You always fear the idea you might see Bonne Terre up there, and it did not feel good to see his name and Bonne Terre Police actually on the memorial itself.

Stegall said the weather seemed to fit the occasion.

It was really, it was beautiful. It was strange, the weather was. It was overcast, then at dusk they lit the Capitol, which is where you could see the blue light, he said. Overcast, gray, with the blue lights of the Capitol. It was kind of amazing. But still very solemn. It actually was really cold and windy later in the evening, but the weather was beautiful the following day for the actual ceremony.

Stegall will be driving to Washington, D.C. on Thursday in anticipation of the National Peace Officers Memorial Day, where hell be joined by Bonne Terre Police Sergeant Richard Mackley and Corporal Garrett Worley, as well as members from Burns family, who live in the Joplin area.

Burns and Worley were responding to a reported disturbance at the motel near U.S. 67 at about 12:30 a.m. on March 17, 2022. Mackley was also on duty that night.

A spokesman for the Missouri State Highway Patrol said hours later, as Worley and Burns approached the door to the room in question, a man burst out, spraying bullets at the officers. Although Worleys lower leg bone was shattered by the shooting and Burns was hit by a bullet that just missed his protective vest, the officers managed to return fire, killing the man.

Burns died about an hour later at Parkland Health Center a few miles to the south. Worley was flown to a St. Louis hospital to save his leg.

Worley went through many surgeries over the course of the year and returned to the force in a part-time capacity when he was able, and on Friday, he donned his Class A uniform for the first time since that tragic night.

That seemed to make him feel pretty good the other day, about getting that uniform, Stegall said.

Stegall added that Worley opted out of the Jefferson City memorial ceremony since his 2-year-old child had a birthday party this past weekend, and hes preparing himself for the Washington, D.C. memorial.

Calvert said he was grateful to many in the community for helping to raise funds to send the officers to Jefferson City and Washington, D.C., and he expressed thanks to the Missouri Law Enforcement Funeral Assistance Team, which arranged last weekends occasion.

Behind every badge is a hero who has sworn to protect and serve, and for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we will never forget their dedication to making our state a safer place for Missouri families, Gov. Parson said. Let us honor these courageous individuals and their families still with us today, as we are forever inspired by their selflessness and commitment to our communities.

The 742 officers honored on the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial paid the ultimate price for their decision to serve the public and make our state a safer place to work and raise a family, Missouri Department of Public Safety Director Sandy Karsten said. We are forever indebted to the fallen for their bravery and commitment to public service.
Launches needs-based Scholarship at Wayne State University for PR, Media Arts Students

DETROIT, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- VVK PR + Creative, the Detroit-based PR, digital and video production agency, has marked its first year in business, exceeding its stated $2 million revenue projections by nearly $400,000, expanding its team to 20 employees, and over doubling its client roster to over 40 organizations in Detroit, statewide and nationally.

To pay its growth forward, agency founders Peter Van Dyke, Jamie Kaye Walters and Michael Sherman, have developed the VVK PR + Creative Student Scholarship at Wayne State University to support diversity within and access for the next generation of PR practitioners, video producers, digital strategists and graphic designers.

"My partners and I had a strong vision for what a forward-thinking, inclusive, strategic and creative agency could achieve, and have been extremely thankful for the response from our clients and community," said Van Dyke, VVK CEO. "Seeing this vision come to fruition, and experiencing such immense growth, has been met with excitement for what our future holds. It is really a testament to the clients and team members who placed their trust in our company leadership."

Since its launch last April, VVK has recruited five team members, building its PR team to include senior vice president, Laura L'Esperance, senior account executive Stephen Jones, account executive and digital specialist Evann Webb, and PR coordinators, Ciara White and Zakiyyah Wade. The video team also expanded with the hiring of Dyan Bailey as a video editor. The agency is continuing to grow through the active recruitment of PR director and senior video producer.

"We are excited to bring fresh ideas and dedicated talent to our clients and to informing how we run VVK PR + Creative. Diversity of experience brings diversity of thought. We are invigorated by those moments when talent and perspectives come together for creative storytelling and strategic public relations solutions," said Walters, VVK COO. "We are excessively selective about our team and thankful to every person who is entrusting this moment of their careers with us."

VVK is already on track to hit $2.8 million in revenue in 2023, and is looking to expanding its services beyond PR, digital and video production in the coming year. Additionally, the agency is looking at expansion in key verticals and in markets across the state and nationally. While the agency services a wide range of industries, its primary verticals are in nonprofit and insurance, real estate and hospitality, and corporate and legal.

"We've been filled with enthusiasm ever since Velocity Cow became VVK PR + Creative; it's really a new dawn for our team and the clients of this amazing venture. We now have access to new services, giving us ample opportunities to use our video production skills and creativity in unison," said Sherman, executive vice president of creative production. "On top of this, our team is thrilled that it can now benefit from a wealth of experiences when it comes to team and partner exchanges  the knowledge that both PR and video teams are combining forces is something we wholeheartedly look forward to and guarantees prosperity for all our clients."

VVK was founded on a principle of investing in the communities the agency and its clients serve, and in its first year gave to several organizations in the arts, animal welfare, health and human services, education, and public relations associations. With an enduring commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders, the agency developed the VVK PR + Creative Student Scholarship, which also stems from Van Dyke's deep involvement in the college, as chair of its board of visitors, a graduation of the PR program, and awardee of its esteemed Alumni Achievement Award.

VVK PR + Creative was launched on strong foundation, bringing together their collective expertise, leadership and client portfolios of its founders, Van Dyke, Walters and Sherman. Prior to forming VVK PR + Creative, the founding partners had notable careers in communication in Detroit, across the state and nationally. Van Dyke has been a leader in Detroit's PR industry for 30 years, serving as CEO and partner two previous public relations companies. Sherman, VVK executive vice president of production, started Velocity Cow video production company with Jamie Kaye Walters in 2008. Walters, VVK COO and head of talent and marketing, served as creative services and programing director at WDIV-TV for eight years after co-founding Velocity Cow with Sherman.

About VVK PR + Creative

VVK is a Detroit-based, PR and creative agency that executes integrated communications services for clients in Detroit, across Michigan and nationwide. The agency combines the experience and expertise of VVK partners and industry leaders, Peter Van Dyke, Jamie Kaye Walters and Michael Sherman, and a team of PR strategists, digital media specialists and video producers, to implement comprehensive campaigns that achieve results of their dynamic client base.

VVK serves clients in industries including agriculture, automotive, energy, media, insurance, IT, legal, nonprofit and real estate, with the following services.

Public Relations

Video Production

Digital Media

Media Relations

Public Affairs

Issues and Crisis Management

Stakeholder and Community Relations

Organizational and Executive Positioning

Event Production

For more information, visit www.VVKagency.com.

SOURCE VVK PR + Creative
CRESSON, Texas, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- International composite product manufacturer Wagners CFT announces the establishment of a new North American headquarters in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, designed to assist personnel in the civil infrastructure and marine infrastructure industries. Bringing their composite fiber products to the United States market, Wagners CFT is poised to help contractors, engineers, and other construction professionals complete better, more reliable structure projects. The design and manufacturing company provides effective, stable building blocks for erecting marine structures and pedestrian structures within the State of Texas.

Wagners CFT's manufacturing and fabrication expertise has allowed them to create durable composite fiber products to be used in the construction of civil and marine structures. Their composites allow for easy material transportation and handling due to their lightweight nature; resistance to corrosion, rotting, rusting, and acid sulfate soils contribute to their over 100-year lifespan and incredibly low-maintenance nature. Other popular features of Wagners CFT's composite fiber materials for pedestrian and marine structures in Texas include:

Lightweight - 20% the weight of steel, 40% that of treated timber

Extremely high strength to weight ratio

Chemically inert

Environmentally stable, extremely low coefficient of thermal expansion

Does not rust or rot

Non-conductive

Quick and easy installation

Wagners CFT's composite fiber products are ideal for erecting several different types of marine structures and pedestrian structures. In the pedestrian infrastructure category, this composite product manufacturer's materials are ideal for creating different types of pedestrian bridges and beach boardwalks. Partnering with them allows for the construction of walkways to accommodate both small and large groups of people without damaging the natural flora and fauna surrounding the installation area. When it comes to marine structures in Texas, Wagners CFT's products can be utilized in the construction of docks, piers, and fender systems to ensure a functional final structure that is capable of withstanding constant exposure to moisture.

This internationally-recognized design and manufacturing company's materials has assisted in the construction of several pedestrian structures across the United States. Wagners CFT's most notable contributions include (but are not limited to):

A pedestrian bridge in Big Sur, California utilizing Innovative installation methods and timber decking.

utilizing Innovative installation methods and timber decking. A single-span pedestrian bridge within the Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia, Canada .

in . A chemically inert and UV-resistant boardwalk with two separate viewing platforms in Ocala, Florida .

. An FRP pier in San Angelo, Texas that is currently undergoing installation.

that is currently undergoing installation. A girder bridge with stacked 4x10 RHS mudsills in Santa Cruz, California .

. A boardwalk in Union Valley, California that is currently undergoing installation.

As a composite product manufacturer, Wagners CFT's products have many other applications outside of the marine structure and pedestrian structure construction purposes. Their composites are designed to assist contractors and other professionals in the civil infrastructure industry who are in the process of building and installing road bridges, viewing platforms, light poles, electrical crossarms, and renewable energy structures.

Learn more about the other applications of Wagners CFT's materials at wagnerscft.com now.

About Wagners CFT:

Wagners CFT (Composite Fiber Technologies) is an international composite product manufacturer providing products to Australia, New Zealand, UAE, Malaysia, and the United States. Their composites, designed and matured in-house, are superior building materials for civil, electrical, and marine construction projects. Wagners CFT prides itself on providing reliable, durable, environmentally-friendly products for contractors, engineers, and other construction professionals through its new North American headquarters in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Find out more at wagnerscft.com .

Contact Information

Name: Anthony Mauro

Email: [email protected]

Phone Number: 817-470-7821

SOURCE Wagners
XUZHOU, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- XCMG Machinery ("XCMG", SHE:000425), a global leader in construction machinery, recently published its 2022 Annual Report, showing strong performance with total revenue of 93.817 billion yuan and net profit attributable to shareholders of 4.307 billion yuan. The company's growth is the highest amongst Chinese construction manufacturers, demonstrating resilience in a period of post-pandemic adjustment.

XCMG, known for high-quality excavation and mining machinery assets, achieved the greatest domestic return on equity at 8.13 percent in 2022. "As a globally leading provider of construction machinery and sustainable development solutions, XCMG is able to consolidate our strategic advantages through the economic slowdown that is affecting the industry, prioritizing technological innovation and internationalization in our strategic roadmap to grow with resiliency," said Yang Dongsheng, Chairman of XCMG.

The first quarter of 2023 saw continued success, with revenue of 23.9 billion yuan, among which internationalization revenue exceeded 10.6 billion yuan, setting a record in the history of a single quarter and accounting for 45% of operating revenue.

Technological Innovation Driving Growth

XCMG invested 5.75 billion yuan in R&D in 2022, a 6.13 percent increase from the previous year. The company has a dedicated R&D workforce of 5,767 employees, accounting for 21 percent of its total staff.

By the end of 2022, XCMG held 9,742 legally licensed patents, including 2,458 innovation patents and 183 overseas patents. The company has received over 20 China patent awards. Several major equipment products developed independently by XCMG have filled gaps in the Chinese market, positioning the company as a leader in high-end manufacturing.

Strong Growth in Overseas Markets

In 2022, XCMG's overseas revenue reached 27.838 billion yuan, while export income totalled 21.63 billion yuan, marking a 70.5 percent increase. The company's international gross profit margin stood at 22.33 percent, surpassing the 19.32 percent margin in the domestic market.

XCMG exports to 191 countries and regions, with a market share increase of 2.42 percent. All eight regions of Asia-Pacific, Middle Asia, Africa, North America, Europe, West Asia and North Africa, Oceania, and South America, in which the company operates experienced significant growth in 2022. International subsidiaries also performed well, with significant revenue increases in Brazil (86.35 percent) and XCMG Schwing (30.33 percent) and the improvement of production capacity in India in its first year of operation.

To support its technology development and international strategies, XCMG established global R&D hubs.

SOURCE XCMG Machinery
The Charlottesville Albemarle Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is holding its Empty the Shelters event once again, during a year of controversy over employee and animal treatment.

As part of the adoption event sponsored by the BISSELL Pet Foundation, the Charlottesville Albemarle Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has dropped its adoption fees down to $25 or less for cats and dogs over the age of one. The shelter held the same event last May alongside approximately 200 other shelters and rescue centers.

So far, CASPCA has helped 44 pets find forever homes since launching the campaign on May 1, Director of Development and Communications Emily Swecker told The Daily Progress. As of Sunday afternoon, CASPCA had about 140 dogs and 230 cats at the shelter and in foster care, said Swecker.

This years campaign occurs after current and former shelter employees and volunteers made accusations of an understaffed and poor work environment that also resulted in unsafe living conditions for animals.

An independent review by the Richmond-based international law firm McGuireWoods determined that the unfavorable environment resulted in significant and unsustainable high rates of employee and volunteer turnover in recent years and negatively impacted retention of employees with specialized knowledge and experience in animal care.

Due to the event being a scheduled campaign, McGuireWoods has nothing to do with Empty the Shelter, CASPCA Board of Directors President Jenn Corbey told The Daily Progress on Sunday.

Law firm releases summary review of embattled Charlottesville SPCA A little more than a week after the CEO of Charlottesvilles embattled animal shelter was pu

We do understand the concerns raised regarding the number of animals we take in and making sure we have the facilities and staff to accept them, Corbey told The Daily Progress in a statement. This fundamental issue is something reviewed carefully in terms of changes to be implemented.

Last month, McGuireWoods advised the organizations Board of Directors to immediately stabilize its human resources department by appointing an interim HR director, assessing personal policies, reviewing the employee and volunteer handbook and creating a streamlined process for employee and volunteer grievances.

The CASPCA has since hired Darcy Furr as the organizations interim HR director, Corbey told The Daily Progress.

The shelters CEO Angie Gunter was also put on administrative leave in April.

Embattled Charlottesville SPCA puts CEO on administrative leave Charlottesvilles embattled animal shelter, where current and former employees have alleged 

A Virginia Department of Agriculture investigation earlier this year found that CASPCAs animal records did not include required information including animal breed description, according to a copy of the inspection report obtained by The Daily Progress.

The investigation also revealed that the CASPCA received at least six dogs from out-of-state animal shelters even though the CASPCAs January 2022 records show that no animals were transferred from out-of-state agencies to the local shelter in the previous year.

Behind every intake decision is the goal of saving lives, Corbey told The Daily Progress last month. We went to treat our staff and volunteers with respect and compassion. We want to care for our animals. We know, as a board, we could have done a better job in recent years, so its something that were going to accomplish and move toward equipping ourselves with stronger training. Were going to implement the recommendations made and continue to move forward.

The Empty the Shelter event will end on May 15, according to the SPCA website.
Its a whole California winery road trip all in one place on one day.

The Garagiste Wine Festival returns to LA for the eighth time on Saturday, June 17th with over 40 micro-production, commercial garagiste California wineries from Malibu, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara County, Paso Robles, Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, Baja California, and more. The festival, which takes place at the Glendale Civic Auditorium, also offers a VIP tasting seminar on Santa Barbara Countys smallest, but perhaps most intriguing AVA, Happy Canyon, and features winemakers Dusty Nabor (Dusty Nabor Wines), Anna Lancucki (Final Girl Wines) and Jessica Gasca (Story of Soil). The festival also includes a No Repeats Rare and Reserve early access hour. Tickets are now on sale here.

We love bringing The Garagiste Festival to Los Angeles because it is the only wine event in LA that brings together so many high quality, small-production winemakers from so many different areas, said Garagiste Festival Co-founder Doug Minnick. Its a whole California winery road trip all in one place on one day.

Our winemakers all have interesting stories. We have a winery that began on California Street in Huntington Beach, the Miracle Vineyard that survived the Malibu fires, our first across-the-border winery pouring wines that reflect the Baja California terroir, and many more. You will discover a multitude of delicious, one-of-a-kind wines, all while talking to the winemakers themselves.

The Garagiste Festival showcases under-the-radar, innovative, commercial winemakers who handcraft 1500 cases or less of wine and is renowned for its passionate winemakers who pour in-person at the festival, as well as for its diversity of handcrafted wines, renegade spirit, and rules-breaking, no snobs allowed ethos. The festival has been described as tasting nirvana, strange and wondrous, and one not to miss by the LA Times and beloved by geeks near and far by Sonoma Magazine.

About its wineries says the Sonoma Sun: if corporate mega-wineries are like the dinosaurs of rock music, these are the garage bands, and, wrote Vinographys Alder Yarrow: they offer a sense of discovery. Ive watched many a wine brand start out small...and end up an established name on the California Wine scene.

Over the years, some really exciting wines have been poured at our festivals from the Happy Canyon AVA; so, were pleased to dedicate this years VIP tasting seminar to its wines, continued Minnick. Happy Canyon is the warmest AVA in its region and, like our garagiste winemakers, it is small, still quite undiscovered, has no tasting rooms and stands alone in producing stunning wines not typical of its region, all of which makes it a very happy match for our festival. Minnick added that legend has it Happy Canyon earned its name because it was where bootleggers could be found during Prohibition since it was so hidden: made you happy to visit!

The Happy Canyon AVA tasting seminar kicks off the festival at 11:30am for VIP ticket holders and is moderated by Garagiste Festival co-founder Stewart McLennan. The seminar is followed by the popular No Repeats Rare and Reserve early access to the festival at 1pm, offering an exclusive opportunity to taste over 30 extremely limited Club Only, Library and Pre-Release bottles, as well as some barrel samples. Saturdays main event, The Grand Tasting, starts at 2:00pm and features over 40 winemakers pouring 150+ wines and 25+ grape varieties. Complimentary cheese and charcuterie will be provided, along with food samples from local artisan vendors, bottled water and a souvenir Stolzle crystal wine glass. All events take place at Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 North Verdugo Road, Glendale, CA. There is plenty of onsite parking and easy access from the 134 and 210 freeways.

Among the over 40 winemakers pouring at The Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure 2023 are:

Absolution Cellars, AJA Vineyards*, Ascension Cellars, Bella Luna Estate Winery, Caelesta Vineyard, Caldeaux, California Street Winery*, Cavaletti Vineyards, Civilization Wine Company, Concur Wines, Cypher Winery, Dana V. Wines, DENO Wines, Dot Wine*, Dusty Nabor Wines, Elkins Wines*, Emercy Wines, Enriquez Estate Wines, Etnyre Wines, Final Girl Wines*, Fuil Wines, Greyscale Wines, Hayseed & Housdon, Hoi Polloi, Holden Cellars*, Intent Wines, Le Poidevin Cellars, Lions Peak, Lunasa Wines*, Lussier Wine Company, Marins Vineyard, Monroy Wines, Montage Vineyards, Optio Vineyards, Pine Mountain Vineyards, Puppione Family Wines, PWR (Peoples Wine Revolution), Rivahil Winery*, Seven Oxen Estate, Stiekema Wine Company*, Tercero Wines, Thomas T Vineyards, Tiny Vineyards Wine Company, Trois Le Fou, Vinicola La Nuestra*

*pouring for the first time at the festivalTickets are very limited for the Garagiste Festivals and always sell out. Tickets are available https://www.eventbrite.com/e/garagiste-wine-festival-8th-annual-urban-exposure-june-17-2023-tickets-576177722077

For breaking Garagiste Festival news and special discounts, sign-up for our free newsletter, The Dirt, at https://www.garagistefestival.com/garagiste-blog or follow us on Twitter (@GaragisteFest) or Facebook.

The Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure festival is the third event of the 2023 Garagiste Festival season, preceded by the sold-out Southern Exposure in Solvang in February and sold-out Northern Exposure Festival in Sonoma in April, and will be followed by the OG Festival in Paso Robles (November 10-11).

Sponsors include:

ETS Labs, Fortis Solutions Group/Digital Dogma, Glenn Burdette, G3, Laffort, and mWEBB Communications. For sponsorship info, email info(at)garagistefestival.com.

The non-profit Garagiste Festivals benefit the Cal Poly SLO Wine and Viticulture program.

For sponsorship info, email info@garagistefestival.com.

For more information and full Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure schedule details, go to: https://www.garagistefestival.com/los-angeles-2022

About The Garagiste Wine Festival

The Garagiste Wine Festival (http://www.garagistefestival.com), named Best of the Fests for 2019 by Fest Forums and the Best Wine Festival in the US in 2018 in USA Todays 10Best Readers Choice Awards, is the first and only wine festival dedicated to the undiscovered and under-recognized American artisan garagiste micro-wineries who are making some of the best, most exciting, handcrafted small-lot production wines in the world. Founded by fellow garagistes Stewart McLennan and Douglas Minnick, the Garagiste Festivals are committed to discovering the best and most innovative limited-production winemakers and promoting and showcasing them to a broad audience of discerning wine consumers.

In addition to its flagship annual festival in Paso Robles, CA, the Garagiste Festival line-up includes Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure, featuring Santa Ynez Valley garagistes; the Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure, in Los Angeles; the Garagiste Festival, Northern Exposure, in Sonoma; winemaker dinners, a newsletter, garagiste profiles and more. In addition to being named the US Best Wine Festival, the Garagiste Festival was named one of the Top Nine Incredible Epicurean Vacations in the world by ABC News, one of the premier wine events of the year, by the LA Times and Best Festival by Sunset Magazines Best of the West. The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department. Garagiste (garage-east) is a term originally used in the Bordeaux region of France to denigrate renegade small-lot wine makers, sometimes working in their "garages" (anything considered not a chateau), who refused to follow the rules, and is now a full-fledged movement responsible for making some of the best wine in the world. The Garagiste Festivals were the first to shine a light on the American garagiste winemaker in 2011.

Media Contacts:

mWEBB Communications for The Garagiste Festivals

Melanie Webber, Melanie(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, 949-307-1723

Elizabeth Johnson, Elizabeth(at)mwebbcom(dot)com, 213-713-4865
Our Las Vegas team had the opportunity to participate in the Top Workplaces survey for the first time this year, and I am excited that we took home the honor.

Seabreeze Management Company, Inc., a leading residential and commercial property management firm, today announced that the company has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2023 honor by The Las Vegas Review-Journal Top Workplaces. The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization: including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees, said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. That's something to be proud of. In today's market, leaders must ensure theyre allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That's paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.

Our Las Vegas team had the opportunity to participate in the Top Workplaces survey for the first time this year, and I am excited that we took home the honor, said Isaiah Henry, CEO at Seabreeze. This award is important to Seabreeze, not just in Las Vegas but every one of our regions because its based on honest employee feedback. We prioritize building a healthy company culture that allows our team to thrive. Im grateful for our colleagues in Las Vegas who took the time to complete the survey.

About Seabreeze Management Company

Seabreeze Management Company is a full-service property management firm with a diverse management portfolio of over 100,000 residential and commercial properties. Based in Aliso Viejo, California, Seabreeze has offered a personalized, service-driven client experience to commercial common-interest developments and homeowners associations for over 35 years. With offices throughout California and Nevada, Seabreezes mission is to be a trusted, knowledgeable advisor and collaborative partner to enable communities of all types to thrive. Seabreeze is a certified AAMC company.

For more information visit http://www.seabreezemgmt.com, like Seabreeze on Facebook, or follow on Twitter @Seabreezemgmt.

About Energage

Making the world a better place to work together.

Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 16 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture.

For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.
This deal was led by Eric Luke, Senior Advisor, Facility Services, and Ryan Wood, Managing Director at Three Sixty Seven and buy-side advisor to The Facilities Group (TFG) for this transaction, commented: I am thrilled to get our first deal across the finish line with Eric. His longstanding relationship with Mike and industry knowledge, along with TFGs track record of continuing generational brand legacy in their acquisitions, made this a perfect fit for both sides. This partnership will undoubtedly serve to expand our clients suite of offerings and ensure Mikes team has the resources to realize their next phase of growth goals.

The Facilities Group, with 25 offices, services more than 28,000 locations across the country. We are excited to welcome Red River to The Facilities Group family. In addition to continued expansion with the support of The Facilities group resources, Red Rivers long history in Louisiana will allow us to provide a more focused service offering in the Gulf Coast region, stated Bryson Raver, Chief Executive Officer of The Facilities Group

Adding Red River to The Facilities Group family marks the sixteenth company to join The Facilities Group since inception and Three Sixty Seven Advisors representing TFG on the buy-side in over ten of the closed transactions.

ABOUT THE FACILITIES GROUP

The Facilities Group partners with the premier local, regional, and national facility maintenance providers, while maintaining brand legacy and driving high powered technology to provide the best-in-class service experience. For more information, please visit http://www.thefacilitiesgroup.com

ABOUT THREE SIXTY SEVEN

Three Sixty Seven Advisors is a middle-market Mergers and Acquisitions advisory firm that leverages its industry experience and depth of relationships to assist their clients in helping realize the best outcome in every transaction. Its team of accomplished professionals has experience working across a wide array of industry verticals, creating a broad range of perspectives and viewpoints, which has helped deliver the top results for clients. Services provided by Three Sixty Seven include sell-side mergers & acquisitions, buy-side mergers & acquisitions, and corporate debt advisory for middle market companies throughout the US from its headquarters in Tampa, FL.
Members of the public gathered on Saturday for the Hatton Ferrys Community Day to celebrate a $105,000 endowment to keep the historical vehicle afloat.

The donations, made by John and Trula Wright and the Margaret Hulvey Wright Charitable Trust, will ensure that the ferry can continue to cross the James River using only the power of the current.

This is the only poled ferry in the country, so its something worth preserving, volunteer ferry operator Jon Anderson told The Daily Progress in April. There were thousands in the past.

Saturdays attendees included Charlottesville Mayor Lloyd Snook and Albemarle County Board of Supervisors Donna Price, according to Facebook posts.

The Hatton Ferry began in 1870 as Browns Ferry and later took its name from the former depot along the C&O, now CSX, railway on the north bank. Most ferries, manual and otherwise, fell to the speedier transit afforded by bridges. Today, the Hatton Ferry continues to link southern Albemarle County and northern Buckingham County.

Since 2010, the ferry has been operated by the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society.

Except for instances of low river levels that may be noted in advance on the ferrys Facebook page, the society plans to operate the ferry from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through October. There is no charge for people or cars, but donations are accepted.
"Through the iAIR Academy and our partnership with GBAC, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of indoor air quality and to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools to make a positive difference," said Dr. John Ryan, CSO of ASL and GBAC Ambassador.

Allergy Standards Ltd (ASL), the international standards and certification body, announced today that Dr. John Ryan, the company's Chief Strategy Officer, will speak at ISSA Pulire 2023 with a talk entitled 'Cleaning For Purpose Not Just Appearance.'

The talk will address how the professional cleaning and sanitising industry can make a significant positive impact on indoor air quality and align their services with the ESG needs of their customers.

As the global population spends up to 90% of their time indoors, the importance of indoor air quality has never been more crucial. The cleaning and sanitising industry plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy indoor environment, and Dr. Ryan's talk will explore how this industry can adopt an approach that focuses on cleaning for purpose, not just appearance.The talk will highlight how the cleaning and sanitising industry can positively impact the indoor environment by reducing allergens, pollutants and pathogens that can cause respiratory and other health issues. Dr. Ryan will provide insights on how the industry can better align its services with the ESG needs of their customers, helping companies become more sustainable and socially responsible.

Allergy Standards has partnered with GBAC, a division of ISSA, to offer the 'Healthier Buildings Awareness' Course through the indoor Air Innovation and Research (iAIR) Academy (iAIR Academy). The iAIR Academy provides comprehensive training solutions to help enterprises achieve a healthy and safe indoor environment. The 'Healthier Buildings Awareness' course provides participants with the knowledge and tools to better understand the relationship between indoor air quality and human health, and to adopt best practices in building management and cleaning to create healthier indoor environments.

Additionally, following on from the recent announcement of ASLs collaboration with the Indoor Air Quality Society, ASL will further expand their presence in the EU market by announcing the European launch of the Verified as Healthier Air mark. The Verified as Healthier Air label validates the air quality of indoor environments or products, passing rigorous review for cleaner and fresh air. With this label, occupants and consumers can have confidence in cleaner air, promoting healthier living and working environments.

"Indoor air quality is a growing concern for people around the world, and the cleaning and sanitising industry can make a significant positive impact by adopting a cleaning for purpose approach. Through the iAIR Academy and our partnership with GBAC, we aim to raise awareness of the importance of indoor air quality and to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools to make a positive difference," said Dr. John Ryan, CSO of ASL and GBAC Ambassador.

ISSA Pulire Milan is the most important Italian trade fair entirely dedicated to professional cleaning and is an unmissable opportunity for those in the sector to discover the latest trends and innovations, network, and upskill. The event includes seminars, workshops, and presentations on key themes such as sustainability, green cleaning, digitalization, and workplace safety.

Dr. John Ryan's talk, 'Cleaning For Purpose Not Just Appearance,' will take place at ISSA Pulire 2023, which is scheduled for May 9-11th, 2023, in Milan, Italy.

About ASL

Our mantra is design thinking and innovation for the air aware consumer. As an independent, international certification company, we create peer-reviewed, scientific standards for a wide range of products and services to determine their impact on indoor air quality. ASLs intellectual property portfolio includes unique protocols for products to be CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly. Our mission is to make the United Nations human right to breathe clean air a reality, through science (Standards), education (Academy) and innovation (Institute). http://www.allergystandards.com/

About the iAIR Academy

The indoor Air Innovation and Research (iAIR) Academy provides comprehensive training solutions to help enterprises achieve a healthy and safe indoor environment. The academy specializes in providing training programs that cover various aspects of indoor air quality, from identifying common pollutants to implementing effective ventilation and air filtration strategies, emphasizing practical solutions that are backed by scientific research and industry best practices. https://www.iair.academy
Poke Bowl, the go-to destination for delicious Hawaiian-style poke bowls, has just announced the opening of its newest location in the Theatre District. The franchise has garnered a massive following for its commitment to using superior ingredients and ensuring the best possible flavors in every bite. With a fresh and contemporary ambiance that is distinctly New York, Poke Bowl's latest location promises to offer a unique dining experience for locals and tourists alike.

The popularity of Poke Bowl's offerings has been on the rise both in New York and globally, as more and more people seek out the health benefits and fresh flavors of this beloved dish. With the opening of the new Theatre District location, Poke Bowl solidifies its position as a premier destination for Hawaiian cuisine enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned poke lover or new to the dish, Poke Bowl's expertly crafted bowls are sure to satisfy.

Dive into the Flavorful World of Poke Bowl's Hawaiian Dishes

Poke Bowl's Hawaiian-style poke bowls are a delight for the senses, offering a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that transport customers to the sunny shores of Hawaii. With traditional dishes like the classic Ahi Tuna Poke and Spicy Salmon Poke, Poke Bowl's menu is a celebration of Hawaiian cuisine that uses only the freshest and most delicious ingredients to create dishes that are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Each bowl is a culinary masterpiece, featuring a beautiful array of fresh vegetables and fish that create a stunning and colorful presentation. The vibrant green hues of the vegetables complement the delicate pink tones of the fresh fish, resulting in a visually appealing dish that is just as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

With classic dishes like the Ahi Tuna Poke and Spicy Salmon Poke, Poke Bowl's menu is a celebration of Hawaiian cuisine that uses only the freshest and most delicious ingredients to create dishes that are as beautiful as they are tasty. The aroma of the dishes is equally tantalizing, with the scents of sesame oil and soy sauce mixing with the salty sea breeze.

To experience the true taste of Hawaii in the city that never sleeps, head over to the new Poke Bowl location in the heart of the Theatre District. Located at 1412 Broadway, the restaurant is in the bustling hub of Times Square and offers convenient hours for lunch and dinner. For more information or to make a reservation, guests can call (646) 905-0056 or email info@pokebowlny.com. Prices and menu details are available on the website.

Don't miss out on the chance to try Poke Bowl's delicious Hawaiian dishes at this brand-new location. Come and savor the flavors of Hawaii today!
We are beyond thrilled and grateful for receiving this recognition. Our team is amazing and hardworking, and this honor is a testament both them and our stellar spa and vendor partners, says Teddy Lester, CEO, The Spa Mart.

Inc. magazine revealed that THE SPA MART is No. 154 on its fourth annual Inc. 5000 Regionals Southwest list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies based in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Born of the annual Inc. 5000 franchise, this regional list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the Southwest economys most dynamic segmentits independent small businesses.

We are beyond thrilled and grateful for receiving this recognition. Our team is amazing and hardworking, and this honor is a testament both them and our stellar spa and vendor partners, says Teddy Lester, CEO, The Spa Mart.

The companies on this list show a remarkable rate of growth across all industries in the Southwest region. Between 2019 and 2021, these # private companies had an average growth rate of 557 percent and, in 2021 alone, they added 16,116 jobs and nearly $5.5 billion to the Southwest regions economy. Companies based in the Austin, Texas, Scottsdale, Arizona, and Fort Worth, Texas, areas had the highest growth rates overall.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000 Regionals Southwest, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, metro area, and other criteria, can be found at inc.com/southwest.

This years Inc. 5000 Regional winners represent one of the most exceptional and exciting lists of Americas off-the-charts growth companies. Theyre disrupters and job creators, and all delivered an outsize impact on the economy. Remember their names and follow their lead. These are the companies youll be hearing about for years to come, says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. magazine.

The Spa Mart continues its consultative approach to working with spa partners and strives to create long-lasting relationships operating from its central Texas headquarters near Austin. It is staying true to its core principles of affordable pricing, fast shipping, a consistent supply chain and exceptional customer service, which have continued to drive the success of the business.

For further information about The Spa Mart and the plethora of products offered, visit  http://www.thespamart.com.

Contact:

Company Name: The Spa Mart

Contact Person: Teddy Lester

Email: Send Email

City: Georgetown

State: Texas

Country: United States

Website: http://www.thespamart.com

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000 Regionals

Methodology

The 2023 Inc. 5000 Regionals are ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2019 and 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independentnot subsidiaries or divisions of other companiesas of December 31, 2021. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $1 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons.

About Inc. Media

The worlds most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent.

The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com.
Wilhelm Muehlhausen, SAFIRA Clinical Research Co-founder 'Were delighted to welcome Willie Muehllhausen as a Scientific Advisor. He has a remarkable track record of advancing technologies that make clinical trials run faster and smoother for sponsors, CROs, sites and patients.' -uMotif CEO Steve Rosenberg

uMotif  one of the clinical trial technology markets fastest growing companies  reiterated its status as the pacesetter in next-generation eCOA/ePRO by welcoming SAFIRA Clinical Research Co-founder and international eClinical technology expert Willie Muehlhausen as a Scientific Advisor.

uMotifs highly scalable eCOA/ePRO platform combines deep clinical knowledge and consumer design expertise to deliver unprecedented levels of patient compliance, regularly achieving greater than 90% data capture in real-world studies. Over 20+ years, Willie Muehlhausen has earned a reputation as a strategic thinker, serial entrepreneur and visionary in patient-facing clinical research technologies at organizations in Germany, the UK, Ireland and the US. He is known for his ability to ideate and develop groundbreaking new product lines and commercial models.

uMotif CEO Steve Rosenberg (LinkedIn) said, Were delighted to welcome Willie Muehllhausen to uMotif as a Scientific Advisor. He has a remarkable track record of advancing technologies that make clinical trials run faster and smoother for sponsors, CROs, sites and patients. And hes earned a stellar reputation as an independent arbiter of emerging eClinical technologies.

As early as 2004, Muehlhausens insights into patient-centric questionnaire validation had a positive impact on the way regulators and the industry approached eCOA, which paved the way for the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) research model. He co-founded SAFIRA Clinical Research in 2021 to offer services to decentralized clinical trial technology vendors, sponsors and CROs. SAFIRA Clinical Research has become the go-to organization for providing unbiased, independent, scientific technology and product evaluations.

Prior to SAFIRA Clinical Research, Muehlhausen was Founder and Managing Director of Muehlhausen Ltd, where he advised sponsors, vendors, investment companies and researchers on digitization strategies for remote and virtual clinical trials. He conducted pioneering research on direct-to-patient models including BYOD, eCOA and wearables.

Also previously, Muehlhausen was with ICON plc for several years, most recently as VP and Head of Innovation. His achievements included the ICONIK toolset for proactively managing clinical trials; ICONs eCOA solution; ICHOM GLOBE, a leading initiative in healthcare and outcomes research; and wearable devices.

Willie Muehlhausen commented, I have always been impressed by uMotifs insights and expertise, and their ability to consistently take important steps forward in delivering next-generation eCOA/ePRO solutions that make quantifiable improvements in research, by truly engaging patients. For example, late last year SAFIRA Clinical Research independently and scientifically validated the Motif data capture method as the first alternative to text-based instruments for clinical, post-marketing and real-world research. It gives researchers a new way to encourage patients to capture data, through a more visually appealing interface.

At ISPOR 2023, May 8 in Boston, Muehlhausen will present a poster, The First Validated Innovation in Scale Design Since the Migration to Screens: Results of an Equivalence Study, Testing a New Graphical Version of the Widely Used Verbal Rating Scale, based on SAFIRAs evaluation of the Motif.

Muehlhausen has served as Vice Director of the eCOA Consortium/Critical Path Institute (C-Path). His industry recognition includes being named one of the PharmaVOICE 100 most influential people in life sciences, and winning a CenterWatch Top 20 Innovator award.

About uMotif

Putting patients first is in uMotifs DNA. The uMotif eCOA/ePRO platform delivers faster, quality clinical trials and real-world studies by putting patients at the core of research. Through cloud hosting in the US, Europe and China, the GCP, 21 CFR Part 11 and GDPR-compliant platform supports any study or trial, from Clinical Phase I, II and III studies through to decentralized or virtual real-world studies. Find out how uMotif can improve your clinical research programs and real-world studies at http://www.umotif.com
Two Wisconsin-based, family-owned companies are joining forces. AMSOIL INC., a global leader in synthetic lubricant technology, has acquired Milwaukee-based Benz Oil. Founded in 1898, Benz specializes in the development, manufacture and supply of industrial and metalworking fluids. Benz Oil will become part of AMSOIL and the AMSOIL Industrial business unit.

Bringing the Benz team and facilities onboard as part of AMSOIL Industrial immediately boosts our capabilities and expertise with industrial fluids, said AMSOIL Chairman & CEO Alan Amatuzio. This acquisition makes AMSOIL Industrial the premier choice for companies that want to maximize the efficiency and reliability of their operations. Our solutions, expertise and passion make AMSOIL an indispensable partner.

The AMSOIL Industrial product portfolio includes turbine oil, hydraulic oil, gear oil, compressor oil, stationary engine oil, grease, coolant and flushing and cleaning products. Now, cutting and grinding metalworking fluid, process fluid, heat-transfer fluid and other specialty fluids are added to that list.

The most exciting thing about this acquisition is how similar our companies are in our approach to business, said AMSOIL VP, Industrial Dave Meyer. We both place high value on our people and our customers. AMSOIL Industrial is very focused on a consultative approach to selling and providing value outside the transaction, and Benz operates the same way.

AMSOIL Industrial and Benz Oil both feature strong teams with rich industry experience. Benz has a very talented team already in place, and they will play a critical role in driving growth for AMSOIL Industrial and setting us further apart from the competition, said Meyer.

The Benz facilities in Milwaukee will be rebranded as AMSOIL. Sales, laboratory operations, production and distribution will continue on site.

As the third-generation leader of a family-owned company with a strong legacy, it was important for us to find new ownership that would seamlessly embrace our values and preserve the core of what we have built over the past 125 years, said Benz Oil CEO Dixon Benz II. I truly believe that AMSOIL, another family-owned, Wisconsin company, with a highly capable team, will embrace the values of our organization and accelerate its trajectory. Its exciting to know that AMSOIL embraces our foundation and is committed to growing the company in meaningful ways. This is a tremendous opportunity for our customers and employees.

About AMSOIL

AMSOIL specializes in developing synthetic lubricants that offer innovative answers to the greatest challenges vehicles and equipment present. The extraordinary performance of AMSOIL synthetic lubricants in a range of markets  automotive, powersports, industrial, racing and more  has made our influence in the industry unmistakable and our brand highly respected. Our commitment to innovation has resulted in legions of brand-loyal customers.

AMSOIL founder and industry pioneer Al Amatuzio built his company on the same principles that defined his career as a jet fighter squadron commander  excellence, integrity and strong leadership. In 1972, the breakthrough came. AMSOIL 10W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil, the result of years of research and inspired by aerospace technology, became the first synthetic motor oil in the world to meet American Petroleum Institute service requirements. It outperformed conventional oils on all counts, signaling a new age in lubrication science. Today, virtually every other motor oil manufacturer has recognized the superiority of synthetic lubricants and followed the AMSOIL lead with introductions of synthetic motor oils of their own. Accept no substitutes  AMSOIL is The First in Synthetics.

About Benz Oil

Founded in 1898, Benz Oil is a leading industrial lubricants manufacturer and supplier that specializes in supporting manufacturers with custom lubrication technology. The rapid rate of technological change throughout the past century has taught us how to adapt, and our team of industry experts has formed a deep understanding of how carefully formulated products  along with the right people  can meet the challenges of a global industrial market.

With one of the largest on-site raw-materials storage facilities in the Midwest, an innovative oil analysis laboratory and unmatched technical resources, Benz Oil has the capabilities to take a product from a customer need, through the R&D process, into production and to the customer, providing unparalleled value. This process and commitment to our customers has allowed us to excel as a product developer and manufacturer. We pride ourselves on consistently meeting the evolving needs of manufacturers, and helping our customers move the needle.


With Thronmax Space, its ultra-compact design makes it more practical to use than any other microphone I have used before.

Audio issues such as background noise, static, low volume, and other similar problems, are frustrating for content creators, streamers, and anyone who needs to have clear audio for their recordings or live streams. Launching today, Thronmax Space ensures the best sound quality without any interruptions!

Thronmax Space is a wireless microphone system that offers users versatility and portability. This microphone kit comes with a primary condenser microphone that captures ambient sound and speech, along with two lightweight omnidirectional lavalier microphones that can easily be attached to clothing or mounted on a tripod or camera to capture clear, natural audio. With Thronmax's proprietary Series IV digital wireless technology, users are provided with unparalleled sound quality, which eliminates bottom sound noise, ensures top-notch audio transmission, zero latency, and a long battery life of up to eight hours on a full charge.

Thronmax has received the iF Design Award in 2021 and 2022 for their products Thronmax Wireless Air, Thronmax StreamMic, Thronmax MDrill One Microphone and Thronmax MDrill Zone. The iF Design Award is one of the most prestigious design awards worldwide. The company has also been named as a RedDot Winner in 2020 and 2021 for Thronmax MDrill Zero, Thronmax Pulse, and Thronmax MDrill One. The Red Dot Design Award is one of the worlds largest design competitions.

The compact, award-winning design and true instant wireless connectivity make Thronmax Space easy to set up and user-friendly. Whether someone is recording in a studio, outdoors, or in a conference room, Thronmax Space can provide clear and high-quality audio in various environments and conditions.

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global wireless microphone market is projected to grow from USD 1.72 Billion in 2022 to USD 3.29 Billion by 2029. With the increasing number of musicians, content creators, and public speakers, Thronmax Space is here to make everyone sound great with zero latency. Plus, with an increase in remote workers, people are looking for an everyday microphone for meetings and interviews.

Ive always struggled with my recordings from the built-in mic on my laptop, and my normal mic always caused static, says CEO Hasan Turgut. With Thronmax Space, its ultra-compact design makes it more practical to use than any other microphone I have used before.

Thronmax Space supports all platforms, including DSLR cameras and all portable devices, including PC, Mac, and iOS platforms. Thronmaxs proprietary Series IV 2.4GHz digital wireless technology allows for an instant connection to any device and top-notch audio transmission. Thronmax Space offers users a fully wireless microphone with a seamless connection, providing crystal-clear sound quality regardless of location or conditions. To preorder, visit pr.go2.fund/thronmax.

About Thronmax

Thronmax is a European-owned and operated company that creates professional audio products for the music recording, broadcast, post-production and streaming markets. Their variety of condenser microphones offer the best solutions for studio, USB, podcast, video conferencing and field recording. With high-quality sound, technology and design, Thronmax continues to lead the international audio space with the launch of their newest product, the Thronmax Space. For more information, visit https://www.thronmax.com/.
"Our program draws from the traditional British Swim School methods and is tailored to meet the specific needs of young adults who seek to enhance their swimming abilities.

British Swim School, the nations leading learn to swim franchise company, announces the expansion of services through the addition of a young adult swim program.

Young adults  ages 12 years and older  have the 2nd highest fatal drowning rate out of any age group. Only toddlers have a higher risk.

"Despite their interest in learning or improving their swimming skills, many young adults are hesitant to enroll in a swim class due to concerns of being grouped with younger, less experienced swimmers, says Melissa McGarvey, British Swim School Aquatics Director. At British Swim School, we recognize that young adult learners require a unique approach to instruction that fosters individual progress and ensures their comfort and safety in the water. Our program draws from the traditional British Swim School methods and is tailored to meet the specific needs of young adults who seek to enhance their swimming abilities.

The Need for Young Adult Swim Instruction

With May being National Water Safety Month, this is the perfect time to draw attention to this program. While younger children are more likely to drown in swimming pools, young adults are more likely to drown in lakes, rivers, oceans, and other natural bodies of water.



Young adults are more likely to overestimate their skills, especially in open water, which can get them into trouble.

Many teens tend to feel they are invincible. Research shows that the human brain isnt fully developed until adulthood, which can lead young adults to make poor decisions.

Peer pressure and the need to keep up with their friends and impress them can also lead to danger in the water.

This program will allow us to reach even more swimmers, ensuring everyone has the ability to be a safe and happy swimmer, says Ashley Gundlach, British Swim School President. With our personalized attention and accelerated approach, we empower young adults to make significant strides in their swimming proficiency.

British Swim Schools Young Adult Program

Depending on the swimmers skill level and areas of need, the goals of the British Swim School Young Adult program include:

Water acclimation and becoming comfortable in the water.

Floating, treading water, and other skills to prepare adolescents to learn to swim.

Learning and practicing proper swimming strokes.

Lifesaving water safety and survival skills.

Additionally, British Swim School encourages parents and guardians to prioritize water safety education for their children and to enroll them in swimming lessons at an early age. With the young adult program, British Swim School continues its commitment to making swimming accessible and safe for all ages and skill levels.

For more information on the British Swim School Young Adult program, visit http://www.britishswimschool.com.

##

About British Swim School

British Swim School, the nations most established swim school franchise with over 40 years in business believes that every individual, regardless of age or ability, should have the opportunity to become a safe and happy swimmer. Offering lessons for babies, children, and adults, the brand is dedicated to its mantra, Survival of the Littlest, focusing first on the survival skills needed to survive a water accident, then moving on to stroke development and more advanced skills. Not only does British Swim Schools give peace of mind to countless families who seek the essential life skill the brand offers their children, the purpose-driven franchise offers an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs who seek a fulfilling business venture with a sound foundation, low investment, and easily scalable model. Part of the Buzz Franchise Brands family, British Swim School currently operates over 300 schools across the United States and Canada.
We are delighted to serve the students and families of Easton and the surrounding areas. Data has shown that students flourish when immersed in both the arts and academic programs tailored to their learning needs, and we see the benefits of this approach firsthand every day."

Easton Arts Academy Elementary Charter School is pleased to announce that the schools charter has been renewed, paving the way for it to continue inspiring students with its immersive arts-focused education that combines traditional academics with daily experiences in the arts.

We are delighted to serve the students and families of Easton and the surrounding areas, said Mohamed Hagag, the schools acting Chief Executive Officer. Data has shown that students flourish when immersed in both the arts and academic programs tailored to their learning needs, and we see the benefits of this approach firsthand every day. We are excited to embark on our seventh year of providing students the tools they need to succeed for the rest of their lives.

Students at Easton Arts Academy take a variety of arts classes, including courses that focus on visual art, theatre, music, and dance, in addition to a traditional academic program. Founded in 2017, the school embraces the educational philosophy that artistic pursuits and hands-on learning enhance academic achievement and contribute to success in a wide variety of professional fields later in life.

Located in a renovated historic building in downtown Easton, the school offers tuition-free enrollment to students from 15 surrounding school districts. Free transportation and free lunches are also provided for every student. Easton Arts Academy regularly features students work in performances and art displays for the community, including recent winter and spring concerts at the State Theatre Center for the Arts.

This year, the school welcomed two new additions to the leadership team: principal Charles Bomboy Jr. and assistant principal Yu Kai Cheung, both of whom have overseen a variety of alternative and specialized educational programs at the elementary, intermediate, and secondary school levels.

To see if Easton Arts Academy is right for your child or to schedule a tour of the school, click here or call us at 484.546.4230.

About Easton Arts Academy  A tuition-free Pennsylvania charter school, Easton Arts Academy provides a rich and comprehensive educational program for students in grades K-5 through intensive artistic immersion. The rigorous and traditional academic program is enhanced with rich, varied, weekly experiences in dance, instrumental music, visual art, vocal music, theatre, and gymnastics. Each student at Easton Arts Academy is provided with a broad introduction to the arts, to enhance their future academic success.
Honorees Mrs. Lee Nicholson Hall, President Tim Hall and Jade Alers '23 The students, youve heard from some of them tonight. I want you to know that they are representative of other students whose names youll never know, and whose faces youll never see, but they are what happens at Mercy College," said Tim Hall, president of Mercy College

Today, Mercy College announced that it raised more than $400,000 at its 42nd Annual Trustees Scholarship Gala to benefit student scholarships. Held at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle, New York on May 4th, the event drew nearly 300 attendees, including community leaders, as well as Mercy trustees, students, Mercy and College of New Rochelle (CNR) alumni, faculty and staff, and friends who gathered in person and virtually to celebrate the evenings honorees and raise critical funds for students.

This years honoree lineup was of a special nature. Mercys President Tim Hall, who has served Mercy College since 2014 and will retire on June 30, 2023, and his wife, Mrs. Lee Nicholson Hall, were bestowed with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Marcelle Willock CNR SAS 58, was honored posthumously with the CNR Legacy Award and Jadelyn Alers 23, was presented with the Student Achievement Award.

We are here tonight to pay tribute to our extraordinary honorees and to raise scholarship dollars to enable Mercy students to fulfill their dreams of becoming College graduates, said Joe Gantz, chair of the Mercy College Board of Trustees. On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, Congratulations to Tim and Lee Hall and Jade Alers, and posthumously CNR Alumna Marcelle Willock. Tonight is particularly special as we honor President Hall, our leader. Tims commitment to student success has left an indelible mark on Mercy. His leadership challenged each of us to put students at the center of our thinking and decision-making.

Under President Halls leadership, Mercy has seen tremendous progress in student success outcomes with significant increases in retention and graduation rates and in efforts to close equity gaps. His tenure is cemented by his tireless efforts of service to the College through improving career success outcomes, ensuring financial stability, solidifying the agreement with CNR to teach-out 1,800 students, expanding and fully renovating the Mercy Manhattan Campus and launching the Division of Workforce Credentialing and Community Impact. One of the scholarship programs established under President Halls leadership was the Mercy Scholars Program developed with lead donors to enable high-achieving students to graduate with little to no debt. His wife, Lee, has supported students at Mercy throughout his tenure, meeting with them, inviting them to their home and always an active part of their community.

He is passionate about students, said Mrs. Lee Hall, in summarizing the motivation for her husbands illustrious career as an attorney, law professor and higher education administrator. Hes got a kind of passion that I dont think is ever going to leave him. I suspect this is probably our first retirement.

Im so proud of how proud our alumni are for their degrees of Mercy College, said Tim Hall, president of Mercy College, who received a standing ovation. The students, youve heard from some of them tonight. I want you to know that they are representative of other students whose names youll never know, and whose faces youll never see, but they are what happens at Mercy College. This is a place where things are going to happen. I hope youll continue to support it, just as you have during the time that Ive been here. This is a place worth supporting because its doing something worth doing.

President Hall was also presented with a proclamation by Westchester County Executive George Latimer and Westchester County Legislator David Imamura for his many contributions to the community. Imamura also proclaimed May 4 President Tim Hall Day in Westchester County, New York, where Mercys Dobbs Ferry Campus is located.

Mercy College has brought incredible resources to our community and to its students under President Hall, said Westchester County Legislator Imamura.

Student Achievement Award recipient Jadelyn Alers, a Bronx native, is a McNair Scholar and a Resident Assistant who will be graduating in a couple of weeks with her bachelors degree in Health Science with a concentration in health promotion from the School of Health and Natural Sciences. During her time at Mercy, she has been instrumental in engaging with students and gathering their feedback to promote positive change. She leads by example through her professionalism in communication, time management and problem-solving skills. Additionally, she has been a volunteer on campus with Bronx Student Life and the Mav Market.

The scholarships and grant support I received at Mercy has allowed me to focus more closely on my academics, said Alers. Ive received over $60,000 in scholarships and grants, including funds raised from this very event, The Trustees Dinner Scholarship Fund. That, combined with the good amount of support that I received from my parents, who are here with me tonight, has given me the opportunity to flourish here.

Mercy College student Michael Johnson, an English Literature major who benefited from funds raised at last years gala, gave attendees a glimpse into how a tuition scholarship changed his lifes trajectory from harrowing to hopeful.

In 2007, my father died of lung cancer. Losing him turned my whole world upside-down, said Johnson Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd be the recipient of a scholarship, especially not at 34 years old. I promise you that with the academic and financial support of Mercy College keeping my fires lit, I will complete my training in English Literature And I will take all your beautiful generosity and pay it forward as best I can.

CNR Legacy Award recipient Dr. Willock, who unfortunately passed away last year, was honored posthumously. She came from Guyana to CNR at the age of 16 to follow her dream of becoming a doctor. She graduated with a degree in Biology in 1958 and then earned her M.D. at Howard University College of Medicine in 1962. She went on to have an accomplished career in medicine including as chair of the Department of Anesthesiology at Boston University School of Medicine and the first female dean of the College of Medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles. She was a dedicated alumna of CNR, served as a member of the CNR Board of Trustees, a member of the Alumnae/i Association and more recently as a member of the CNR Legacy Council at Mercy College.

In recognizing Dr. Marcelle Willock tonight, the Mercy College Trustees have chosen someone who epitomizes CNRs finest  an alumna with a distinguished career and a lifetime dedicated to the Ursuline motto of Serviam, said Rosa Napoleone CNR SAS 75 and last years honoree.

###

About Mercy College

Founded in 1950 by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy College is an independent, coeducational college that offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs within five schools: Business, Education, Health and Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts and Social and Behavioral Sciences. The vibrancy of the College culture is sustained by a diverse student body from around the region. The College offers campuses in Dobbs Ferry, the Bronx and Manhattan as well as online offerings. For more information, visit http://www.mercy.edu.
The author examines Swami Saradananda's life in detail, weaving together strands from America's religious and cultural history.

Vedanta, one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, has a focus on knowledge and liberation. In the late nineteenth century, Swami Saradananda, a direct disciple of well-known Indian Hindu mystic and spiritual leader Ramakrishna, travelled to America to preach Vedanta.

In her book Like Rolling River Free..., author Vandana M. Jani highlights three central characters: Swami Saradananda, Sara Bull, and Sarah Farmer, who she says played a critical role in the growth of American spirituality. The life of Swami Saradananda is examined in detail, especially his trip to the United States in 1896, when he meets Bull and Farmer, whos family history is also documented and provides a detailed view of nineteenth-century America.

This book is a result of ten years of research, said Jani, for an idea that has been in my mind for much longer.

The author examines Swami Saradananda's life in detail, weaving together strands from America's religious and cultural history. In the process, she reveals the importance of the two women: Bull, the daughter of a senator and the wife of a famous musician, who became one of Swami Vivekananda's most significant supporters and trusted disciples; and Sarah J. Farmer, the creator of Green Acre Conferences, a unique place to experience and spread the oneness of truth in all religions.

The book details the family history of both Bull and Farmer, but the book's portrayal of Saradananda, who was one of Sri Ramakrishna's most influential disciples, is most prominent. His contributions to the Ramakrishna Order, one of the largest religious orders in India today, provided it with essential guidance that continues to resonate.

Swami Saradananda, Sara Bull, and Sarah Farmer, with their various components of life and work, all came together at the Greenacre Conferences in 1896-1897, said Jani, which seeded the flowering of American spirituality and religious harmony.

Like Rolling River Free... The Story of Swami Saradananda in the West Along with Lives of Sara C. Bull & Sarah J. Farmer

By Vandana M. Jani

ISBN: 9781665731621 (softcover); 9781665731607 (hardcover); 9781665731614 (electronic)

Available at Archway Publishing, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author

Vandana M. Jani, Ph.D., who has enjoyed a career as a post-doctoral research associate and science educator, is the co-founder of Vivekananda Vidyapith, a nonprofit organization focused on character-building education for K-12 students. Based in Wayne, N.J., the institution has thrived under her guidance for the past 45 years. Following the Vedanta tradition by her late guru, Swami Adiswarananda, she has devoted her life to spiritual pursuits. To learn more, please visit http://www.archwaypublishing.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/834007-like-rolling-river-free-.


Linn County Sheriffs deputies have arrested a Salem man who they suspect committed multiple robberies locally.

Deputies arrested Tyler Stephen Michael Partlow, 30, on suspicion of robbery and harassment charges. A victim alleged he threatened her with a wrench.

Over the weekend, deputies responded to a robbery at Loves Truck Stop in Millersburg at about 11:22 p.m. Saturday, May 6, according to an agency news release. A witness told law enforcement a man had entered the store with a hammer and demanded money from the clerks.

Customers and employees attempted to stop the robbery, but the suspect fled the location, the news release said. While deputies searched the area, the Albany Police Department received reports of another robbery at the Motel 6 on Pacific Boulevard. According to the news release, the description of the suspect and his vehicle were the same as the Millersburg robbery.

Linn County deputies, Albany police and Oregon State Police continued to search the area. Officers spotted the suspect vehicle on the Santiam Highway and conducted a traffic stop.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Albany Democrat-Herald.

Police took Partlow into custody without incident, LCSO said.

Beyond the robberies, Partlow also had a felony parole violation warrant for burglary, according to the news release. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact LCSO at 541-967-3950.

Partlow was arraigned in Linn County Circuit Court on Monday, May 8 on two counts of second-degree robbery, two counts of unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of harassment.

During the arraignment, a victim of the Motel 6 robbery said she was scared for her life when Partlow allegedly threatened her with a wrench.

Judge Michael Wynhausen ordered the Oregon Office of Public Defense Services to appoint Partlow an attorney. Wynhausen set the defendant's bail at $200,000. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for May 22.
We are delighted that investors have taken notice of this relatively young Funds strong performance results," said North Square CEO and Co-Founder Mark Goodwin.

The North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund has surpassed $100 million in assets, propelled by inflows sparked by strong Fund performance, according to North Square Investments, the Funds investment adviser.

For the one year period ended March 31, 2023, the Altrinsic International Equity Funds Class I Shares (NSIVX) finished among the top 19% fundsor first quartilein its Morningstar Foreign Large Blend category peer group, ranking 150th among 744 funds. (The Fund has not yet been in existence long enough to be ranked for other time periods. Rankings based on Morningstar total return.)

Past performance does not guarantee future results. Short term performance, in particular, is not a good indication of the fund's future performance, and an investment should not be made based solely on returns.

The investment objective of the North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund is to provide long-term growth of capital, said North Square CEO and Co-Founder Mark Goodwin. We believe Altrinsics private equity approach to public equities results in a prudently concentrated portfolio of high-conviction, long-term investments with exposures that tend to be different from benchmark indices, Goodwin continued. We are delighted that investors have taken notice of this relatively young Funds strong performance results. Altrinsic has been managing its international equity strategy for over 22 years, and the North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund shares the same investment approach and process, he said.

The North Square Altrinsic International Equity Funds subadvisor is Altrinsic Global Advisors, LLC, a focused investment boutique founded in 2000 that specializes in the identification of investment opportunities among listed global equities. John Hock, CFA, John DeVita CFA, CPA, and Rich McCormick, CFA are the the Funds portfolio managers.

Altrinsic Founder and Chief Investment Officer John Hock said, By applying time-tested principles of fundamental, intrinsic value investing, we seek to capitalize on inefficiencies in the worlds public equity markets. We take a long-term view and leverage our in-depth fundamental analysis, global industry knowledge, diverse backgrounds, and distinctive cross-border perspectives to develop portfolios that prudently express our conviction.

As of March 31, 2023, the North Square Altrinsic International Equity Funds total net assets were $103.73 million. For additional Fund performance information, portfolio holdings, and characteristics, please see the North Square Altrinsic International Equity Funds Fact Sheet: http://northsquareinvest.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/North-Square-Altrinsic-International-Equity-Fund-1Q-2023-Fact-Sheet.pdf

North Square and John Hock discuss Altinsic Global Advisorss investment approach and building high-conviction equity portfolios in our most recent podcast, which you can listen to here: https://northsquareinvest.com/post/altrinsic-global-investors-the-next-10-years-are-going-to-be-very-very-different-than-the-last-10-years/

About Altrinsic Global Advisors

Altrinsic Global Advisors, LLC, founded in 2000, is an employee-controlled and majority-owned investment management firm. Altrinsic manages approximately $8.8 billion in global, international, and emerging markets equities, applying a long-term private equity approach to public equities. The firm was established with the belief that a focused, experienced, well-connected investment team with an uncompromising culture of teamwork and the pursuit of excellence has a sustainable competitive advantage in the investment management industry. Altrinsic's clients include corporate and public pension plans, endowments, foundations, sovereign wealth funds, sub-advisory, and individual investors (in partnership with North Square Investments). Learn more about Altrinsic at http://www.altrinsic.com.

About North Square

Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, North Square Investments is an independent, multi-boutique investment firm dedicated to delivering differentiated active investment strategies to the market. North Square has an experienced senior management team comprised of seasoned professionals, a board composed of industry veterans including John Amboian, Neil Cummins and Brian Gaffney, and is backed by Estancia Capital Partners. As of March 31, 2023, North Square had over $1.2 billion of assets under management in 12 mutual funds. With North Squares ownership interests (majority and minority, respectively) in the distinctly branded firms of CS McKee and Oak Ridge Investments, collective assets under management and advisement totaled $10.5 billion. Learn more about North Square Investments at northsquareinvest.com.

Principal Risks of Investing, North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Credit and Subordination Risk, Preferred Securities Risk, Hybrid Security Risk, Additional Tier 1 Securities Risk, Optionality Risk, Foreign Investments Risk, Rule 144A and Regulation S Securities Risk, Currency Risk, Emerging Markets Risk, Derivatives and Hedging Transactions Risk, and LIBOR Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth in the Funds prospectus. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Funds prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

Before investing you should carefully consider the Funds investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other information is in the prospectus, a copy of which may be obtained by calling 855-551-5521. Please read the prospectus carefully before you invest.

The opinions contained herein are of North Square as of the date of this publication and are subject to change without notice.

Distributed by Compass Distributors, LLC. Compass Distributor LLC is not affiliated and does not distribute the separately managed accounts offered by Altrinsic.

 2023 Morningstar. All Rights Reserved. The information contained herein: (1) is proprietary to Morningstar and/or its content providers; (2) may not be copied or distributed; and (3) is not warranted to be accurate, complete or timely. Neither Morningstar nor its content providers are responsible for any damages or losses arising from any use of this information. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Morningstar Rankings represent a fund's total return percentile rank relative to all funds in the same Morningstar Category for the same time period. The highest (or most favorable) percentile rank is 1%, and the lowest (or least favorable) percentile rank is 100%. It is based on Morningstar total return, which includes both income and capital gains or losses and is not adjusted for sales charges or redemption fees.
I have now worked with Paul Kechnie on a number of transactions. He is very professional and dedicated to the process. Paul has also become a good friend!

Performance Brokerage Services, North Americas highest volume dealership brokerage firm, is pleased to announce the sale of Wuerflein Honda in Albert Lea, Minnesota from John Markquart & Ryan Wuerflein to Aaron Marthaler of Marthaler Automotive Group.

Wuerflein Honda was acquired by the Markquart group from David Christensen in 2022. Following the sale, John Markquart, Principal at Markquart, partnered with General Manager Ryan Wuerflein to operate the dealership.

The Markquart group started in the small town of Jackson, Minnesota. Founder Ed Markquart began selling cars out of a gas station, and within a year, was offering GMC and Oldsmobile brands. Eds son Lee joined the business in 1955 and gradually assumed leadership over the company. In 1970, Lee made his first major acquisition- a Pontiac Oldsmobile Cadillac dealership in Eau Claire, Minnesota. The company rapidly expanded under Lees savvy leadership. Lees sons, John and David, as well as his grandson Charlee, have joined the business as well. Today, the group operates 10 dealerships in the automotive and RV industries and employs over 300 people.

Ryan Wuerflein and John Markquart will continue to co-own and operate their second location, Wuerflein Chevrolet Buick GMC in northern Albert Lea, Minnesota. Following the sale, John Markquart commented, It was a pleasure working with Paul Kechnie of Performance Brokerage Services. As in the past, I found Paul responsive and professional. He helped us make this a smooth transaction from start to finish. We wish Aaron all the best and are confident that Wuerflein Honda will continue to thrive under the leadership of Marthaler Automotive Group.

Over the last 5 years, Performance Brokerage Services has advised on the sale of over 300 dealerships, making it the highest volume dealership brokerage firm in North America. In 2022, the company consummated 92 transactions, marking a record-breaking year. This transaction was exclusively facilitated by Performance Brokerage Services Texas & Midwest Offices, managed by Paul Kechnie, Senior Partner. Kechnie commented, It was a privilege to help John and Ryan find the right buyer for Wuerflein Honda. Ive worked with Aaron Marthaler several times, and the professionalism and experience his auto group brings to the table will undoubtedly make Wuerflein Honda even more successful. John and Ryan were a pleasure to assist, and I look forward to helping Aaron grow his auto group in the future.

Aaron Marthaler started his career in the auto industry as a lube technician in Glenwood, Minnesota changing oil in cars. He quickly moved on to selling vehicles and bought into his first dealership soon after. With the acquisition of Wuerflein Honda, Marthaler Automotive Group currently owns and operates 9 dealerships in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

In 2022, Aaron Marthaler acquired Fred Muller Buick GMC and Fred Mueller Mazda in Schofield, Wisconsin with the assistance of Paul Kechnie. Following the sale of Wuerflein Honda, Marthaler remarked, I have now worked with Paul Kechnie on a number of transactions. He is very professional and dedicated to the process. Paul has also become a good friend!

The dealership will remain at its current location at 2114 East Main Street in Albert Lea, Minnesota and will be renamed Marthaler Honda of Albert Lea.

About Performance Brokerage Services

Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. is North Americas highest volume dealership brokerage firm, specializing in buy-sell activity for automotive, RV, commercial truck, powersports, and equipment dealerships.

With over 25 years of experience, 700 dealerships sold, and a 90% closing rate, the companys reputation is unmatched and governed by the utmost ethical conduct and integrity.

The company offers a unique approach by providing complimentary estimates of value with no upfront fees or retainer, no reimbursement of costs, and paid a success fee only after the transaction closes.

Headquartered in Irvine, California, and supported by 9 regional offices in Utah, Texas, Illinois, Florida, Virginia, Ohio, New Jersey, Alberta and Ontario, clients benefit from national exposure with local representation.

As trusted and respected experts in the field, the company utilizes an extensive network of industry related attorneys, accountants, hundreds of registered buyers, and longstanding relationships with various vehicle manufacturers.

For more information about the services offered by Performance Brokerage Services, visit https://performancebrokerageservices.com.


This book shows that science and faith aren't in mutual opposition, but highly complementary.

Author James A. Cannon, Ph.D. explains the faith behind physics in Finding the Light: Science and its Vision ($15.99, paperback, 9781662865787; $29.99, dust jacket, 9781662865794; $7.99, e-book, 9781662865800).

Contrary to the popular belief that science opposes Christian faith, Cannon teaches that historical physical science, as well as modern physics, follow faiths universal promptings within the human heart. He demonstrates how both have flourished together in the lives of prominent scientists throughout history, and argues that faith in God is a guardian of classical realism, the philosophical foundation of science.

This book shows that science and faith aren't in mutual opposition, but highly complementary.

Dr. James A Cannon (b.1933 - d.2020), after serving in the US Navy during the Korean war, studied and practiced journalism as managing editor of the Fordham University newspaper. Then he switched his area of concentration to physics. He earned an MA at Columbia and a B.S. and Ph.D. at Fordham. He did basic research at Bell Labs, but having the heart of a teacher, he left to pursue a career spanning five decades as a revered professor of physics and chemistry at Pace University in New York. A neurological injury led to retirement. He suffered for a dozen years until complications from Parkinsons and Covid-19 took his life. During this time, with of the able assistance of his devoted wife, Monica, Dr. Cannon wrote Finding the Light: Science and its Vision, a testament to his lifes work, his Catholic faith, his love of science and his love of teaching.

Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the worlds largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date.Finding the Light is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.
Zeigler Auto Group Earns Milwaukees Best and Brightest Award 2 Consecutive Years Being recognized with our second consecutive Milwaukees Best & Brightest Company to Work For Award speaks volumes about our world-class team... that has achieved multiple top honors including Toyota Presidents Award and Glassdoors 100 Best Places to Work Award this year.

Zeigler Auto Group has earned its second consecutive Milwaukees Best & Brightest Companies To Work For Award. The coveted award given by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has a 1-10 ratio with only the Best and Brightest Companies in Milwaukee eligible for the recognition. Besides this distinction the organization is also the only auto group to make the list for two years strong.

Being recognized with our second consecutive Milwaukees Best & Brightest Company to Work For Award speaks volumes about our world-class team members and culture in Wisconsin. This was our largest acquisition and our teams came together to create a winning culture that has achieved multiple top honors including Toyota Presidents Award and Glassdoors 100 Best Places to Work Award this year, said Aaron Zeigler, president & CEO of Zeigler Auto Group.

Zeigler Auto Group currently employs over 300 team members across the Greater Milwaukee region at four franchise locations: Zeigler Hyundai of Racine, Zeigler Honda of Racine, Zeigler Subaru of Kenosha, and Zeigler Toyota of Racine.

Receiving the award as Milwaukees Best & Brightest Companies to Work For is a huge compliment to our organization and testament to all of the great work that our employees do every day serving our customers and taking care of each other. I am very proud to be associated with such a great group of people and recognize that this award and recognition is all about them! said Dan Scheid, CFO of Zeigler Auto Group.

The winning companies chosen as the 2023 Milwaukees Best and Brightest Companies To Work For are assessed by an independent research firm, which reviewed several key measures relative to other nationally recognized winners. The categories applicants were scored on include Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Creative Wellness and Wellbeing Solutions, Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment and Selection; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Work-Life Blend; Community Initiatives and Corporate Responsibility; and Leadership, Strategy and Company Performance.

I would like to congratulate the Wisconsin teams for qualifying for Milwaukees Best & Brightest Companies to Work For. I am proud to work with these awesome Professionals and I am so impressed with how easily the teams embraced Zeiglers culture and mission statement Our Family providing your Family with the Ultimate Automotive Experience, said Joe St. Germain, VP of Zeigler Wisconsin.

Zeiglers Driving Vision Podcast spent time with the team from Zeigler Honda of Racine, to discuss what it means to have earned a second consecutive Milwaukee's Best & Brightest Companies To Work For Award in the first two years of eligibility.

With over 25 years of experience conducting the Best and Brightest competitions, the National Association for Business Resources has identified numerous best Human Resource practices and provided benchmarking for companies that continue to be leaders in employment standards.

Those companies that made the list of Best and Brightest Companies to Work For as well as those companies that continue to make the list are truly remarkable. Given todays need for talent, retention of talent, and the further issues related to the pandemic, these companies have proven they are superior to market conditions. They are elite thinkers, and this honor demonstrates their commitment to excellence, said Jennifer Kluge, president and CEO of NABR and The Best and Brightest Program.

All winning organizations of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For are invited to attend the upcoming in-person 2023 Best and Brightest National Summit, an exclusive national conference for all winners across the entire country. This national conference will be held on September 27-28 in Detroit, Michigan, and will focus on collaboration, sharing of best practices, analysis of pressing issues, inspiration, social activities, and celebration.

About the Best and Brightest Programs

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For is a powerful community of the Nations elite leaders who share ideas, practices and have proven they are employers of choice. This program identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in operations and employee enrichment that lead to increased productivity and financial performance. There are numerous regional programs throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houston, Milwaukee, San Diego, San Francisco, Miami, New York, Charlotte, Denver, Nashville, Pacific Northwest and nationally. Nominations are now being accepted for all programs.

About Zeigler Auto Group

Zeigler Automotive Group is one of the largest privately-owned dealer groups in the U.S. with 78 franchises across 35 locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Vehicle brands represented include all of the domestic and the majority of the imported manufacturers.

Besides its extensive automotive portfolio, the organization owns and operates Zeigler Motorsports, an 85,000-square-foot motorsports dealership and action park, offering 19 different powersports brands, plus its own onsite restaurant: Trak Houz Bar & Grill. Additionally, Zeigler Motorsports houses the Elevate Leadership & Team Building Academy, an executive training company.

The Kalamazoo-based dealer group also owns and operates Zeigler Pre-Owned of Chicago, three Byrider franchises, three finance companies, several insurance firms, and a leasing firm.

Founded in 1975, the organization employs over 2,300 people, ranking among the top 1% of automotive dealers in the nation with estimated annual sales of $2.2 billion for 2022. The family-owned and operated company is well known for its commitment to both customer service and employee satisfaction. Zeigler is regularly recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation, also earning similar accolades in Wisconsin, Chicago, and Michigan. Besides these prestigious accolades, Zeigler is also one of Glassdoor's 100 Best Places to Work in the U.S. for 2023, and among Glassdoor's top 10 U.S. companies for work-life balance.
PTI Fact Check: Old and unrelated photo of a womans body falsely linked to Manipur violence and peddled on social media with fake claim

New Delhi, May 8 (Abhinav Gupta / Pratyush Ranjan PTI Fact Check): A Twitter user shared a photo of a bloodstained body of a woman wrapped in plastic bag and claimed that she was a nurse from Manipur who was raped and killed by members of a different community. The user linked the purported incident with the recent violence witnessed across several parts of the state. In its investigation, the PTI Fact Check Desk found that the photo of an old and unrelated incident was shared on social media with a false claim, linking it to the recent violence in Manipur.

Over the past week, Manipur witnessed violence following inter-community clashes. Curfew was imposed in several areas, and over 100 columns of the Army were deployed in the state after the violence broke out on May 3 (Wednesday).

Claim

A Twitter user shared on May 6 a photo of a womans body lying in a plastic bag and claimed that she was a nurse who was raped and killed by members from another community. The user also used the hashtag #ManipurViolence in the post, linking it to the violence that broke out in several parts of the state over the past week.

What is this then? A Meitei nurse working in Ccpur was raped by Kuki inside the hospital and brutally killed! #ManipurViolence #letthismadnessend, read the Tweet shared by the user.

Here is the link and archive link to the post. Below is a screenshot highlighting the image being investigated:

Investigation

Starting the investigation, the Desk conducted a Google Reverse Image Search on the image carried in the Twitter post. The search results led to a report published by Amar Ujala on Nov 22, 2022.

Ayushi Murder Case:        -   ,    , read the headline of the report published by Amar Ujala.

Ayushi Murder Case: Ayushi used to meet Chhatrapal Gurjar after love marriage secretly, father's sensational disclosure, read the English translation of the headline initially in Hindi.

Here is the link to the report. Below is the screenshot of the same.

                      -     (Police arrested the parents on Monday in connection with the discovery of the girl's body in a trolley bag on the service road of Yamuna Expressway in Mathura), read a portion of the news report.

The Desk noticed that an image which is visually similar to the one shared on social media was carried by Amar Ujala in its report.

Below is a combination image comparing the viral replication to the one carried by Amar Ujala in their report:

The Desk then conducted a Google search with the keyword Mathura girl body trolley bag, which led to a report published by India Today on Nov 22, 2022.

Father killed girl found in a bag in Mathura for leaving home unannounced, read the reports headline.

Here is the link to the report. Below is the screenshot of the same.

The Desk noticed that India Todays report carried a visually similar image clicked from a different angle to the one shared on social media.

Below is a combination image comparing the viral replication to the one carried by India Today:

The Desk subsequently concluded that the photo of an old and unrelated incident was shared on social media with falsely linking it to the recent violence in Manipur.

Claim

A woman nurse in Manipur was raped and murdered by members of another community as a result of the inter-community clashes that led to violence across the state recently.

Fact

The photo was of an incident in UPs Mathura in November last year. The old and unrelated photo was shared with a false claim.

Conclusion

A Twitter user shared a photo of a womans body wrapped in a plastic bag and claimed that she was a nurse from Manipur who was raped and murdered by members of another community. The user also used a hashtag related to recent incidents of violence reported in the Northeastern state. The Desk found in its investigation that the photo was related to an incident in UPs Mathura in November last year. The old and unrelated photo was shared 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.
At the Independent Book Publishers Associations annual Publishing University, held in San Diego from May 4-6, attendees gathered for a keynote panel of Legends of Black Independent Publishing. Moderator Troy Johnson, founder of the African American Literature Book Club, facilitated a conversation with well-known industry veterans Third World Press Foundations Haki Madhubuti, Black Classic Press and BCP Digital Printings W. Paul Coates, Africa World Press and Red Sea Presss Kassahun Checole, and Just Us Bookss Wade Hudson and Cheryl Hudson.

All the panelists spoke to how important community and consistent values have been to their longevity in indie publishing. Vision alone is not enough, and investors and allies are essential, said Checole, who started Africa World and Red Sea in 1983.

Everyone on the panel came out of the struggle for civil rights, said Coates, who opened Black Classic Press in 1978. Wade as a young man was involved in the Civil Rights Movement in Louisiana. Haki is still one of the foundational members of the Black Lives Movement. Kassahun was with the Eritrean Liberation Front. Myself with the Black Panther Party. These are people who carried the struggle forward and had it bloom in publishing.

Everyone in the group shared powerful examples to demonstrate that the word community goes far beyond feel-good rhetoric. In December, Madhubuti said, a pipe burst and flooded Third World Press's Chicago office while he was away in Cleveland: We lost 85% of our book inventory. Although he was reluctant to seek help, friends convinced him to raise funds. He requested $90,000less than he actually needsand as of this month, a GoFundMe has raised more than $125,000 from supporters.

An in-person representative of community showed up for Coates. Author Walter Mosleywho sought out Black Classic Press in 1996 for Gone Fishin, one of his Easy Rawlins novelswas in the audience to cheer the indie publishing panel. Mosley got an impromptu standing ovation from the surprised attendees.

Married pair Cheryl and Wade Hudson talked about their own commitment to Just Us Books for young readers. People think the name is justice, which is fine, but really the company is just us, Cheryl Hudson said with a smile. She recalled how, in the 1980s, publishers did not want to take the chance on what became their successful Afro-Bets series of alphabet and other educational books. We stand on the shoulders of so many other brothers and sisters, Wade added, encouraging Black entrepreneurs to have the audacity to proclaim themselves publishers in a diversifying and at times exclusionary industry.

Wade Hudson added that Black indie publishers also need to advocate for social justice, as Just Us Books has done with authentic representations of children of color. Madhubuti agreed, saying that efforts to educate and inform must be sustained against occasional pushback: One of our major programs is our prison literature program, he said. Weve given literally hundreds of thousands of dollars to prisons across this country. And as a result of that weve been locked out of prisons now. Last week they sent back four or five of our books, not able to use in this prison. So the struggle continues.

Even with setbacks, Madhubuti continued, Its our responsibility to publish material that allows us to rise above the limiting and high-level hatred that exists among others and outside our communities against us. At age 80, with more than half a century in publishing, he still feels determined: There are more than 55 million Black people in this country, and were not going anywhere.

Innovative Voices

To kick off the "Legends of Black Independent Publishing" panel on May 6, the IBPA announced a grant initiative for indie publishers from marginalized communities. The Innovative Voices Program will provide each grant recipient with an estimated $2,000 worth of financial and other support, including education and mentorship. The inaugural set of grants will go to five publishers.

In a press announcement, IBPA invited applicants whose race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, socioeconomic status, language, disability, or age places them in a marginalized category. In addition, IBPA noted that applicants must run a book publishing program that demonstrates proven support for a diverse set of issues related to one or more of those communities.

Co-sponsored by IngramSpark, each grant package includes $750 from IngramSpark, $750 from IBPA to spend on IBPA marketing programs, IBPA membership and a scholarship to attend PubU 2024, plus free printing of 250-500 books and either free or discounted goods and services from companies including Above the Treeline, NetGalley, Papertrell, and PW.

Applications for the inaugural year must be submitted by June 30, and the start date for the first Innovative Voices Program cohort will be August 1, 2023.
In Reyess The House in the Pines (Dutton), a woman searches for her lost past while attempting to unmask a serial killer.

What was the spark for the house featured in the novel?

The house appeared in the first story I ever wrote. I was 11 and hoping to win a contest hosted by my local library, and as I was reading a lot of Christopher Pike and R.L. Stine at the time, my story took on a similar tone. It was about a girl who gets lost in the woods and comes upon a creepy house with a secret. Years later, while attending Louisiana State Universitys MFA program, I sat down to write what would become The House in the Pines. And again the house appeared. This book is, in many ways, my exploration of that house and what it means to me.

What did you learn from the two years you spent rewriting?

There was always a mystery at the heart of The House in the Pines, but my agent encouraged me to make the book more suspenseful. I went about this by rereading books by Shirley Jackson, Gillian Flynn, and some of my other favorite authors and analyzing their approach to the thriller genre. What I found was a collection of tropes, including red herrings and cliffhangers. I then found ways to weave those devices into my own work, and I think the book is much stronger for it.

What did you feel when you heard that the book had become a bestseller?

My editor sent me a Zoom link, so I hopped online and was greeted by not just her but also my publicist, the director of publicity, and the director of marketing at Dutton. The first thing I noticed was the bottle of champagne and the glasses they all held. My editor was the one to say it: Youre #2 on the New York Times bestseller list! It was one of the most exciting moments of my life.

Was it hard to keep secret that the book had made it onto the Reeses Book Club 2023 list?

It was so hard not to tell anyone! I knew several months in advance and consistently had to remind myself it was a secret. The day the book came out I was glued to my phone, waiting for the moment Reese Witherspoon made her announcement and I was finally free to tell the world.

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Former Purdue University mechanical engineering students Alex Bauer, from left, Mark Ragei and Dylan Balter make a presentation during the spring 2022 Malott Innovation Awards. A research team of Purdue University mechanical engineers led by associate professor Thomas Beechem has created a tool that makes the manufacture of ultrathin semiconductors more consistent, controllable and repeatable than traditional methods. It uses a dry-transfer process to move graphene and other ultrathin, 2D materials from the growth substrate where they are synthesized to a device substrate. (Purdue University photo/Jared Pike)

Users can customize a recipe to peel 1-atom-thick 2D materials like graphene from a surface and affix it onto another

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.  Purdue University engineers have developed a patent-pending tool to make the manufacture of ultrathin semiconductors more consistent, controllable and repeatable than traditional methods.

Thomas Beechem, an associate professor of mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering, leads a research team that has created a tool that uses a dry-transfer process to move graphene and other ultrathin, 2D materials from the growth substrate where they are synthesized to a device substrate. A two-minute video shows the tool collecting graphene from copper foil and placing it on a silicon wafer.

Everyone wants their electronics to be smaller, faster, quicker and more powerful. But transistors keep getting smaller and smaller, which means the semiconductor industry is looking beyond silicon, Beechem said. Manufacturers are thinking about materials that are only atoms thick, like graphene and molybdenum disulfide, or MoS2, but the substrates that they grow on best arent the best to make devices.

The challenge is moving the material from the growth substrate to a platform good for making devices. Right now, this transfer is an artisanal process completed in a one-off manner, but workers cant do that at scale.

The Purdue tool peels 2D materials from one substrate and places them on another. Beechem said it provides users with more control and degrees of freedom, including creating their own recipes for a scalable process. Using a dry-transfer process, the tool also removes the need to etch materials that easily contaminate the ultrathin layers.

The tool allows us to control several aspects of peeling samples from a substrate: How much force is used to grab the sample? How fast do we peel? What angle do we contact the 2D material with the stamp? Beechem said.

The goal is opening up the parametric space to develop fab recipes for 2D materials in the same way we do for all processes taking place in a semiconductor clean room. Users can try different degrees of freedom  not just up and down, but rotation as well  to find the best recipe for their particular growth substrate and device platform.

The next step to develop the tool for commercialization is to connect with industrial partners that are pursuing ways to standardize 2D-device fabrication.

Two-dimensional materials have been darlings in the lab for over a decade now, Beechem said. To get them off the lab bench and into the real world, tools must be developed that allow their scalable integration into commercial fabs. Our tool steps in that direction in an attempt to make an iffy process in the lab into something more automatic.

Beechem disclosed the tool to the Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization, which applied for patent protection on the intellectual property. Industry partners interested in further developing the technology for the marketplace should contact Dhananjay Sewak, dsewak@prf.org, about 2023-BEEC-69991, Mechanical method to transfer two-dimensional material via thermo-mechanical control.

Beechem has received funding from the Sandia National Laboratories Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) Program to create and develop this work.

Purdues persistent pursuit of microchip advancement through innovation, partnerships and programs is highlighted in an online roundup of news.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked in each of the last five years as one of the 10 Most Innovative universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at https://stories.purdue.edu.

About Purdue Research Foundation Office of Technology Commercialization

In fiscal year 2022, the office reported 157 deals finalized with 237 technologies signed, 379 disclosures received and 169 issued U.S. patents. The office is managed by the Purdue Research Foundation, which received the 2019 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities Award for Place from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. In 2020, IPWatchdog Institute ranked Purdue third nationally in startup creation and in the top 20 for patents. The Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Contact otcip@prf.org for more information.

Writer/Media contact: Steve Martin, sgmartin@prf.org

Source: Thomas Beechem III, tbeechem@purdue.edu
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Woodstone at Massanutten Annual Fixed Week 25, Check-In Friday, Saturday, Sunday 4 Bed/4 Bath, Lock-Off, Floating Unit, Sleeps 12 Annual usage beginning in 2024 Maintenance fees are approx. $1078.00 every year and will be billed to you for your 2024 usage. WINNING BID IS ALL YOU PAY! SELLER HAS PAID CLOSING COSTS AND TRANSFER FEES! NOTE: ALL TRANSACTIONS WILL BE HANDLED THROUGH EMAIL AND USPS. LOCAL PICK-UP IS NOT NECESSARY. For more than 45 years, Massanutten Resort has welcomed visitors as the...

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HOME > 90 Day Fiance > 90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days TLC

'90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days' Season 6 cast and premiere announced by TLC (WATCH THE TRAILER!)

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/08/2023



: Before the 90 Days' Season 6 premiere and cast, including seven new couples and the return of Gino Palazzolo and Jasmine Pineda, have been announced by TLC.



ADVERTISEMENT The sixth season of : Before the 90 Days will premiere Sunday, June 4 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC and will stream concurrently on Discovery's discovery+ streaming service.



The eight couples starring on the next season of : Before the 90 Days include Gino, a 53-year-old from Michigan and Jasmine, a 35-year-old from Panama; Amanda, a 31-year-old from Louisiana and Razvan, a 26-year-old from Romania; Riley, a 48-year-old from Pennsylvania, and Violet, a 43-year-old from Vietnam.



The rest of the couples are Christian, a 30-year-old from Minnesota and Cleo, a 32-year-old from England; Tyray, a 33-year-old from California, and Carmella, a 27-year-old from Barbados; David, a 42-year-old from Nebraska and Sheila, a 31-year-old from the Philippines; Meisha, a 43-year-old from Minnesota, and Nicola, a 46-year-old from Israel; and Statler, a 33-year-old from Texas, and Dempsey, a 28-year-old from England.



: Before the 90 Days' new season will follow the end of : The Other Way's fourth season, which is currently airing Sunday nights on TLC.



According to TLC, the new season will follow long-distance relationships and document how each couple found each other as well as their first in-person meeting in a foreign country "and the unexpected surprises, cultural clashes and dramatic twists" along the way.



"This season serves up an explosion of emotion with all the highs and lows of dating across the globe, as marriage proposals dangle in the distance," the network teased.



In most : Before the 90 Days cases, a pair of lovebirds are hoping to get engaged and begin the K-1 Visa process.



After traveling across the world, the couples will determine if love can conquer all as they experience challenges such as language barriers, interfering families, cultural differences, age gaps, ex partners, and baggage from the past.



When viewers last saw Jasmine and Gino on the Tell-All special for : Before the 90 Days' fifth season in April 2022, Jasmine and Gino were still together and engaged, even though Gino had sent a nude picture of Jasmine to his ex.



Jasmine complained that Gino had been punishing her with a lack of sex, and her fiance was accused of flirting with co-star Ben Rathbun's friend Jessica in his Instagram DMs.



When asked to reveal their formal plans for the future, Gino said during the Tell-All -- which filmed in January 2022 -- that he had a K-1 visa processing. He had submitted the paperwork to immigration and was in "the sixth" month of waiting for it to be approved.



Jasmine confirmed in an Instagram Q&A session with her followers in April 2022 that the couple's K-1 visa had been "pre-approved" and so her move to the United States could happen "anytime soon," according to In Touch Weekly.

RELATED LINK: '90 DAY FIANCE' COUPLES NOW

See which 90 Day Fiance couples are still together, and who has split and broken up! (PHOTO GALLERY)

Jasmine also announced her plans to move to Tampa, FL with Gino upon her arrival instead of his home state of Michigan.



When asked if Jasmine planned to look for a teaching job in Florida, Jasmine explained at the time, "Being a teacher in the USA is not an easy job. I'm gonna start taking classes to become a real estate agent."



"I will love to do that in the USA (it's not an easy job either but I'm so into it)," she added. "I'm also tired of the stigma of being a teacher and looking a certain way."



Jasmine also revealed that she'd love to bring her two children from a previous relationship from Panama to the U.S. and that she'd like to expand her family with Gino in the U.S.



"Once I'm in the [U.S. flag emoji] we will start making babies," Jasmine disclosed.



In a sneak peek of the new season coming this spring, Jasmine tells a doctor that she wants to be a virgin again, before apparently undergoing a medical procedure. After Jasmine hopes to "reignite a spark" with Gino, he asks her if she cheated on him.



"I'm gonna go to my ex! He knows how to f-ck! He is the best man I have ever had," Jasmine tells Gino. "F-ck you!"



"I'm done," Gino laments.



ADVERTISEMENT Watch the video below to see the : Before the 90 Days Season 6 trailer and see for yourself!



Meisha reveals Nicola is unlike any man she's dated before because he's a 46-year-old virgin.



And David, who was born deaf, says he found the love of his life in Sheila. Sheila's young son, however, struggles to communicate and connect with David due to his hearing impairment.



In addition, Tyray learns his future wife may be working as an escort, with her own business page online.



Below are couples who will be featured on : Before the 90 Days Season 6 and their TLC-supplied descriptions.



- Gino, 53 (Michigan) and Jasmine, 35 (Panama)



After over two years together, Gino and Jasmine are engaged and waiting on the approval of Jasmine's K-1 Visa. They are deeply in love, but their relationship is an emotional roller coaster and things have been rocky as of late.



Gino keeps promising Jasmine's visa will come through any day, but she is growing impatient and forces Gino to rent her a luxury apartment in Panama for the next month while she waits. Jasmine's expensive habits leave Gino and his family wondering if she's only after his money.



Finances aren't the only cause of arguments -- they've also been struggling with communication, trust and problems in the bedrooms. Hoping to resolve some of these big issues before getting married, Gino is headed back to Panama.



Do they have what it takes to make this work or will the fighting prove to be too much?





- Amanda, 31 (Louisiana) and Razvan, 26 (Romania)



Amanda, a widowed mother of two, never thought she'd find love again after losing her husband to a sudden battle with cancer. But all that changed when she started chatting online with Razvan, a Romanian social media star and actor.



Razvan helped pull her out of her grief as she fell in love with his warmth, sense of humor and chiseled, model body. Now, after 4 months of online dating, Amanda is ready to fly to Romania to meet him for the first time in person.



ADVERTISEMENT



Will love endure, or is this all a bit too fast?





- Riley, 48 (Pennsylvania) and Violet, 43 (Vietnam)



Riley, a military vet, jazz lover, and cigar aficionado, has been scarred by betrayal in his past relationships, but after meeting and falling for his Vietnamese girlfriend Violet online, he's ready to fly to Vietnam to give love another chance.



But it hasn't been smooth sailing in the two years since they started talking, and Riley's concerns have led him to look into hiring a private investigator to determine if he can really trust Violet.



With issues from the onset, do these two stand a chance?





- Christian, 30 (Minnesota) and Cleo, 32 (England)



Christian is the self-proclaimed life of the party who's been all over the dating scene but has yet to find "the one." Enter Cleo, an autistic and neurodivergent trans woman who values quiet time at home in London with her cats.



The two met on social media almost a year ago and what started out as a friendship, became a full-fledged romance and both completely smitten.



Despite pushback from some of his family, and a history of dating exclusively cis-woman, Christian is excited to finally meet Cleo -- but is admittedly not sure how he's going to feel once they're together in person.



Will their differences come between them?





- Tyray, 33 (California) and Carmella, 27 (Barbados)



ADVERTISEMENT



Even though they communicate exclusively on SnapChat, Carmella has been a huge part of Tyray's life, supporting him when his mother had a stroke and he had to quit his job and move in with her to be her caretaker.



The connection they've formed is so deep that they've started talking about marriage, and now Tyray is planning a trip to Barbados so that they can finally meet and he can hopefully propose.



But despite having been talking for 4 years, Tyray's family knows nothing of his relationship -- will they try to stand in the way of true love?





- David, 42 (Nebraska) and Sheila, 31 (Philippines)



David is a kind-hearted, hardworking man who was born completely deaf. He's been longing for love and companionship his entire life but connecting with people in a hearing world can be a struggle. His last relationship ended badly when he found out he was being cheated on but thankfully he didn't give up on love because two years ago he met Sheila online.



David and Sheila have been talking every day for the last two years, but mostly through text since although also hearing impaired, Sheila knows very limited sign language.



Despite concerns from David's family and friends, David is sure Sheila is the one and is putting everything on the line to travel 8000 miles to the Philippines.



Can their love withstand both culture and communication hurdles?





- Meisha, 43 (Minnesota) and Nicola, 46 (Israel)



Meisha is a 43-year-old divorced Catholic convert who left her glamorous life as a TV journalist after experiencing a spiritual awakening in her living room.



Seven years ago, while exploring her newfound faith she connected online with Nicola, a 46-year-old virgin who has never been in a serious relationship and lives with his mother in Israel.



ADVERTISEMENT



But with his limited experience with women, is Nicola capable of giving Meisha everything she needs?





- Statler, 33 (Texas) and Dempsey, 28 (England)



Statler is a high-energy, charismatic insect enthusiast from Texas. As an adopted child, she never really felt like she fit in and thought of herself as the black sheep in the family, which left her longing for unconditional love.



Statler thinks she may have finally found it with her British girlfriend Dempsey.



After talking for seven months, Statler is heading to England to meet her for the first time. But unbeknownst to Dempsey, if all goes well, Statler is planning to move there. Will it all be too much too soon?









About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski

Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON GOOGLE NEWS : Before the 90 Days' Season 6 premiere and cast, including seven new couples and the return of Gino Palazzolo and Jasmine Pineda, have been announced by TLC.The sixth season of : Before the 90 Days will premiere Sunday, June 4 at 8PM ET/PT on TLC and will stream concurrently on Discovery's discovery+ streaming service.The eight couples starring on the next season of : Before the 90 Days include Gino, a 53-year-old from Michigan and Jasmine, a 35-year-old from Panama; Amanda, a 31-year-old from Louisiana and Razvan, a 26-year-old from Romania; Riley, a 48-year-old from Pennsylvania, and Violet, a 43-year-old from Vietnam.The rest of the couples are Christian, a 30-year-old from Minnesota and Cleo, a 32-year-old from England; Tyray, a 33-year-old from California, and Carmella, a 27-year-old from Barbados; David, a 42-year-old from Nebraska and Sheila, a 31-year-old from the Philippines; Meisha, a 43-year-old from Minnesota, and Nicola, a 46-year-old from Israel; and Statler, a 33-year-old from Texas, and Dempsey, a 28-year-old from England.: Before the 90 Days' new season will follow the end of : The Other Way's fourth season, which is currently airing Sunday nights on TLC.According to TLC, the new season will follow long-distance relationships and document how each couple found each other as well as their first in-person meeting in a foreign country "and the unexpected surprises, cultural clashes and dramatic twists" along the way."This season serves up an explosion of emotion with all the highs and lows of dating across the globe, as marriage proposals dangle in the distance," the network teased.In most : Before the 90 Days cases, a pair of lovebirds are hoping to get engaged and begin the K-1 Visa process.After traveling across the world, the couples will determine if love can conquer all as they experience challenges such as language barriers, interfering families, cultural differences, age gaps, ex partners, and baggage from the past.When viewers last saw Jasmine and Gino on the Tell-All special for : Before the 90 Days' fifth season in April 2022, Jasmine and Gino were still together and engaged, even though Gino had sent a nude picture of Jasmine to his ex.Jasmine complained that Gino had been punishing her with a lack of sex, and her fiance was accused of flirting with co-star Ben Rathbun's friend Jessica in his Instagram DMs.When asked to reveal their formal plans for the future, Gino said during the Tell-All -- which filmed in January 2022 -- that he had a K-1 visa processing. He had submitted the paperwork to immigration and was in "the sixth" month of waiting for it to be approved.Jasmine confirmed in an Instagram Q&A session with her followers in April 2022 that the couple's K-1 visa had been "pre-approved" and so her move to the United States could happen "anytime soon," according to In Touch Weekly.Jasmine also announced her plans to move to Tampa, FL with Gino upon her arrival instead of his home state of Michigan.When asked if Jasmine planned to look for a teaching job in Florida, Jasmine explained at the time, "Being a teacher in the USA is not an easy job. I'm gonna start taking classes to become a real estate agent.""I will love to do that in the USA (it's not an easy job either but I'm so into it)," she added. "I'm also tired of the stigma of being a teacher and looking a certain way."Jasmine also revealed that she'd love to bring her two children from a previous relationship from Panama to the U.S. and that she'd like to expand her family with Gino in the U.S."Once I'm in the [U.S. flag emoji] we will start making babies," Jasmine disclosed.In a sneak peek of the new season coming this spring, Jasmine tells a doctor that she wants to be a virgin again, before apparently undergoing a medical procedure. After Jasmine hopes to "reignite a spark" with Gino, he asks her if she cheated on him."I'm gonna go to my ex! He knows how to f-ck! He is the best man I have ever had," Jasmine tells Gino. "F-ck you!""I'm done," Gino laments.Meisha reveals Nicola is unlike any man she's dated before because he's a 46-year-old virgin.And David, who was born deaf, says he found the love of his life in Sheila. Sheila's young son, however, struggles to communicate and connect with David due to his hearing impairment.In addition, Tyray learns his future wife may be working as an escort, with her own business page online.Below are couples who will be featured on : Before the 90 Days Season 6 and their TLC-supplied descriptions.After over two years together, Gino and Jasmine are engaged and waiting on the approval of Jasmine's K-1 Visa. They are deeply in love, but their relationship is an emotional roller coaster and things have been rocky as of late.Gino keeps promising Jasmine's visa will come through any day, but she is growing impatient and forces Gino to rent her a luxury apartment in Panama for the next month while she waits. Jasmine's expensive habits leave Gino and his family wondering if she's only after his money.Finances aren't the only cause of arguments -- they've also been struggling with communication, trust and problems in the bedrooms. Hoping to resolve some of these big issues before getting married, Gino is headed back to Panama.Do they have what it takes to make this work or will the fighting prove to be too much?Amanda, a widowed mother of two, never thought she'd find love again after losing her husband to a sudden battle with cancer. But all that changed when she started chatting online with Razvan, a Romanian social media star and actor.Razvan helped pull her out of her grief as she fell in love with his warmth, sense of humor and chiseled, model body. Now, after 4 months of online dating, Amanda is ready to fly to Romania to meet him for the first time in person.But is she truly ready to open herself up to a new relationship? And at 26, is Razvan prepared for life with two young children? Will jealousy over Razvan's career come between them?Will love endure, or is this all a bit too fast?Riley, a military vet, jazz lover, and cigar aficionado, has been scarred by betrayal in his past relationships, but after meeting and falling for his Vietnamese girlfriend Violet online, he's ready to fly to Vietnam to give love another chance.But it hasn't been smooth sailing in the two years since they started talking, and Riley's concerns have led him to look into hiring a private investigator to determine if he can really trust Violet.With issues from the onset, do these two stand a chance?Christian is the self-proclaimed life of the party who's been all over the dating scene but has yet to find "the one." Enter Cleo, an autistic and neurodivergent trans woman who values quiet time at home in London with her cats.The two met on social media almost a year ago and what started out as a friendship, became a full-fledged romance and both completely smitten.Despite pushback from some of his family, and a history of dating exclusively cis-woman, Christian is excited to finally meet Cleo -- but is admittedly not sure how he's going to feel once they're together in person.Will their differences come between them?Tyray is a generous, big-hearted man whose insecurities about his body have held him back from finding love -- until 4 years ago when he met the love of his life, Carmella on a dating app.Even though they communicate exclusively on SnapChat, Carmella has been a huge part of Tyray's life, supporting him when his mother had a stroke and he had to quit his job and move in with her to be her caretaker.The connection they've formed is so deep that they've started talking about marriage, and now Tyray is planning a trip to Barbados so that they can finally meet and he can hopefully propose.But despite having been talking for 4 years, Tyray's family knows nothing of his relationship -- will they try to stand in the way of true love?David is a kind-hearted, hardworking man who was born completely deaf. He's been longing for love and companionship his entire life but connecting with people in a hearing world can be a struggle. His last relationship ended badly when he found out he was being cheated on but thankfully he didn't give up on love because two years ago he met Sheila online.David and Sheila have been talking every day for the last two years, but mostly through text since although also hearing impaired, Sheila knows very limited sign language.Despite concerns from David's family and friends, David is sure Sheila is the one and is putting everything on the line to travel 8000 miles to the Philippines.Can their love withstand both culture and communication hurdles?Meisha is a 43-year-old divorced Catholic convert who left her glamorous life as a TV journalist after experiencing a spiritual awakening in her living room.Seven years ago, while exploring her newfound faith she connected online with Nicola, a 46-year-old virgin who has never been in a serious relationship and lives with his mother in Israel.Despite coming from two completely different worlds, over the years they fell in love and now, after seven years of talking, Meisha is flying to Israel to finally meet him in person with hopes of coming back engaged.But with his limited experience with women, is Nicola capable of giving Meisha everything she needs?Statler is a high-energy, charismatic insect enthusiast from Texas. As an adopted child, she never really felt like she fit in and thought of herself as the black sheep in the family, which left her longing for unconditional love.Statler thinks she may have finally found it with her British girlfriend Dempsey.After talking for seven months, Statler is heading to England to meet her for the first time. But unbeknownst to Dempsey, if all goes well, Statler is planning to move there. Will it all be too much too soon? 90 DAY FIANCE: BEFORE THE 90 DAYS 90 DAY FIANCE BEFORE THE 90 DAYS COUPLES: WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 90 DAY FIANCE COUPLES: WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 90 DAY FIANCE SPOILERS MORE 90 DAY FIANCE: BEFORE THE 90 DAYS NEWS << PRIOR STORY

'Bachelor in Paradise' couple Becca Kufrin and Thomas Jacobs reveal gender of first baby together NEXT STORY >>

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On Tuesday evening, the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission met for a work session to hear a presentation from members of the International Association of Fire Fighters in favor of the Firefighters Mediation Act and the managers office in opposition to the act.

The commission also heard presentations for a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax 2020 mental health project and the Classic Center Special Tax District and discussed the FY 2024 budget for the first time.
For most college students, balancing school work and extracurriculars is a full-time commitment. However, for brothers and University of Georgia students Garrett and Xander Chiaramonte, putting their dreams on hold until after college was not an option. Garrett, a senior business management major, and Xander, a junior entertainment media studies major, established a company that embodies nearly everything they are passionate about  Clear Mountain Entertainment.
On Tuesday, the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission began their regular session meeting by swearing in the newly elected District 2 Commissioner, Melissa Link. The commission then hosted a special called session before discussing the introduction of an ordinance providing firefighters with representation, and rezoning projects.

District 9 Commissioner Ovita Thornton acted as mayor pro tem in lieu of Mayor Kelly Girtzs absence. Probate Judge Susan Schaffer swore in Melissa Link to the District 2 Commissioner chair.
Tata Group-owned Air India has extended the deadline for non-flying staff to apply for the Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) till May 31.

Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters

The deadline for applying for the VRS, which was announced in April, ended on April 30.

"Last date to apply for voluntary retirement for all the eligible employees has been extended till May 31," Air India Chief Human Resources Officer Suresh Dutt Tripathi said in an internal communication on Monday.

The airline also said the acceptance of the applications and the date of release will continue to be subject to the management's discretion.

The company made the offer for permanent general cadre officers over the age of 40 years, who have completed a minimum of five years of continuous service at the airline.

Also, clerical and unskilled categories of employees who completed a minimum of five years of continuous service will be eligible.

Further, clerical and non-skilled employees who completed at least five years of continuous service were offered VRS.

In the wake of a shortage of experienced pilots and cabin crew, the airline had to request the cabin crew opting for VRS to extend their date of release by two months to January 2023.
The Reserve Bank of Indias (RBIs) decision on Wednesday to relax restrictions on banks operating in the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) related to the repatriation of idle funds in foreign currency accounts (FCA) could give a fillip to trading in foreign stocks at the GIFT City.

The RBI also removed restrictions on individuals from opening interest-earning FCA at an IFSC.

Being able to earn interest on the FCA account shall encourage resident Indians to open an account in IFSC banking units and foster investments in stocks and other securities of overseas entities available in IFSC.

The 15-day timeframe was quite stringent since it wouldnt give one sufficient time to decide which investment instrument to opt for from the options available, said Neha Malviya Kulkarni, chief growth officer, SuperNAV.

Last year, both the NSE and BSE had launched trading in overseas stocks at the GIFT City. This was aimed at providing relatively easy access to Indian investors who currently go through a more cumbersome process.

The initiative, however, did not gain traction due to the restrictions placed on FCA accounts.

Industry players said the amendments were long awaited and would now put the GIFT City on par with other global jurisdictions.]In February 2021, the RBI allowed resident individuals to remit funds under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) to IFSCs set up in India.

However, the remittances were to be made only for investments in IFSC securities.

Moreover, only a non-interest-bearing FCA was allowed in IFSCs under LRS.

The recent RBI notification on LRS for remittance by resident individuals to the IFSC is a welcome change.

"The RBI has done away with the condition of repatriating any funds lying idle for a period up to 15 days from the date of its receipt in the FCAs in IFSC to the domestic INR account, with immediate effect, said Suresh Swamy, partner, Price Waterhouse & Co.

Experts said the removal of the repatriation clause means the time period shall now revert to the 180-day rule provided in the LRS for the repatriation of unused foreign exchange to domestic INR accounts.

The NSE IFSC has launched trading in US stocks through the unsponsored depositary receipt (DR) programme.

Under this, the top 25 US-based stocks  including Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet and Tesla  can be bought by domestic investors by opening an account with a broker based in the IFSC.

To keep investment ticket size lower, NSE provides an option to trade in fractional quantity or value.

Investors have to use their LRS limits to buy overseas stocks via IFSC.

Under the LRS, authorised dealers were allowed to facilitate remittances by resident individuals up to $250,000 per financial year for any transactions permitted under the law.

The latest relaxations will also make it attractive for banks to mobilise liabilities at the IFSC. It will give them cheaper access to funds and, in turn, allow them to lend at more competitive rates, said an expert.
Jet's air operator certificate will lapse on May 19.

IMAGE: A Jet Airways Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircarft parked inside a hanger at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport in Mumbai. Photograph: Abhirup Roy

The Jalan-Kalrock Consortium has said it is committed to restart Jet Airways and is looking for a new chief executive officer to replace Sanjiv Kapoor whose term ended on Friday, April 28, 2023.

Revival, however, will not be easy even if the consortium quickly secures control of the grounded airline, feel industry experts.

This is due to changed market conditions and consolidation in the domestic market.

"Jet Airways has lost an opportunity to re-establish itself. There was space in the market for a second full-service airline after Air India. Go First is facing engine issues and SpiceJet has financial challenges and these factors have constrained their expansion. Jet could have taken the advantage but has failed to get off the ground," said aviation consultant Vishok Mansingh.

Akasa Air, which started operations last August, has cornered 3 per cent market share while Air India is consolidating its operations, Mansingh pointed out.

Getting desired airport slots and the right manpower will be a challenge for Jet now, he added.

An aviation expert concurred. "A lot has changed in the past six-nine months in terms of availability of aircraft, airport slots and pilots. The situation was different last May when Jet's air operator certificate was revalidated," he said.

For instance, new aircraft originally built for Russian airlines were widely available in the market for lease at that time rather than now due to the US and European sanctions, he said.

The Boeing 737 Max aircraft was banned in China but now carriers there have started operations with the aircraft.

The Jalan-Kalrock Consortium had signed letters of intent with lessors for a few such Airbus planes built for Russian airlines, but with its own launch delayed the planes have been snapped up by others.

In fact, the Jalan-Kalrock Consortium had planned to have six planes by December 2022 and double the number over the next six months.

"Everything was in place. In-flight menus were designed. An app was ready and an agreement was signed with a call centre," a source said.

Hopes for a quick revival thinned as lenders and the consortium differed on the issue of control and fulfilment of conditions' precedent.

Last November, the consortium was forced to put employees on leave without pay.

Many of them have now quit due to question marks over revival.

Kapoor, who was the chief executive officer designate, left after completion of his notice period.

Vice-president (operations) P P Singh and company secretary Neeraj Manchanda quit in the same week.

Jet is now without heads of operations, safety and training.

These are among the posts mandated by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for all airlines to keep their operator certificate valid.

Jet's air operator certificate will lapse on May 19.

There are other challenges, too.

While allowing JKC to take control, the National Company Law Tribunal gave it 180 days from November 16 to make payments to its creditors.

This deadline, too, is fast approaching and the Jalan-Kalrock Consortium is expected to seek additional time for compliance in view of lenders' appeal against the NCLT order.

According to the original resolution plan, JKC has to pay Rs 185 crore (Rs 1.85 billion) to lenders in the 180-day period that ends next month.

The grounded airline's employees are also litigating for priority in payments due to them including provident fund and gratuity.

An application for liquidation of the company filed by the cabin crew union is also pending.

"Our focus is on the pursuit of justice. Payments to staff must be made on a priority," N Hariharan, legal advisor of the All India Jet Airways Officers and Staff Association, said.

"We are in the last leg of closing the transfer of ownership of Jet Airways to JKC, subsequent to which we will settle outstanding amounts payable to previous creditors according to our approved resolution plan," Ankit Jalan, board member of the Jalan-Kalrock Consortium, said, "and shall, soon thereafter, recommence the commercial operations of Jet Airways as per our relaunch plans."
The new chief minister, if from the Congress, will have little or no time for political administration, to ensure that he does not lose the voter's goodwill even before the Lok Sabha polls.

He can count only on one thing. That the BJP may not want to upset him too early lest an early failure should become an added problem for the party in all the polls to follow, predicts N Sathiya Moorthy.

IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addresses a public meeting in Yadgir district, Karnataka, May 4, 2023. Photographs: ANI Photo

For the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in Karnataka, which is also the governing party of the nation for the past nine years, the May 10 assembly polls in the state's south is crucial.

It is even more so for the Opposition Congress in the state, which is still seen as the anchor for a credible anti-BJP combine ahead of next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Or, so is the general perception of the political class, pundits and people alike. But is it so?

For one thing, the election schedule for the months ahead of the parliamentary polls is equally interesting and even more challenging for the contesting parties.

Assembly polls are due this year in two Congress-ruled states -- Chhattisgarh (November) and Rajasthan (December).

Against this, the BJP is the ruling party only in one state, namely, Madhya Pradesh, in November.

Yet, for the BJP ,the MP elections are as critical as the one in Rajasthan is for the Congress rival.

Some claim that anti-incumbency may be visible in both, with the result they may end up swapping places in these two Hindi belt states.

But it is not as simple, not in Congress-ruled Rajasthan. The high command is clueless about sorting out the mutual hate that ageing Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and his one-time deputy Sachin Pilot harbour. It could embarrass the party more than it may be prepared for, when elections are announced.

Apart from these crucial states, including Karnataka, assembly polls are due also in Mizo National Front-ruled Mizoram (November) and Telangana (December), ruled by the Telangana Rashtra Samithi turned Bharat Rashtra Samithi leader K Chandrasekar Rao with his unveiled prime ministerial ambitions (though he is not speaking about it for some time now).

It does not end there. Along with the Lok Sabha polls or around the same time, assembly polls are due also in the Yuvajana Shramika Rythu Congress Party citadel of Andhra Pradesh, BJP's Arunachal Pradesh, Naveen Patnaik-ruled Odisha (Biju Janata Dal) and Sikkim Krantikari Morcha-held Sikkim, all of them in April 2024.

The Lok Sabha elections are also due in April-May 2024.

The chances of the Election Commission wanting to hold them both together in these states cannot be ruled out.

The question is, which of them will influence the other -- whether Prime Minister Narendra D Modi's appeal will hold sway over the constituencies especially of Odisha's indefatigable Naveen Patnaik and Andhra's Jaganmohan Reddy.

The alternative would be that they sweep away the 'Modi magic' in the respective states, carrying a message of its own.

The third possibility of course is that the voters in these and other states with simultaneous polls, the voter shows greater maturity and splits his verdict between the LS and assembly polls, as he deems fit.

In both cases, the ubiquitous anti-incumbency too could hold, for instance.

Patnaik, in particular, has not lost an election since becoming chief minister way back in March 2000, and may be the dark horse in the Opposition camp if they were to win the Lok Sabha polls.

Of course, thus far he has steered clear of identifying with the BJP or its rivals at the national level though he has fought the party in all elections in his state. But he has been voting in favour of the Modi government's initiatives in Parliament, on most occasions.

IMAGE: United Progressive Alliance Chairperson Sonia Gandhi with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, party leader Rahul Gandhi and others during an election meeting for the Karnataka assembly poll in Hubballi, May 6, 2023.

Against this background, the Karnataka assembly polls become critical for the BJP on the one hand and not just the Congress party, aspiring to win back the state, but for the aspiration-clad national Opposition as well, in the long run-up to the Lok Sabha polls.

Bihar's Janata Dal-United Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who hopes to facilitate an anti-BJP coalition at the national-level, has said he is now waiting for the Karnataka polls to be behind them, for picking up the threads.

One reason could be that Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is busy with the assembly polls in his native state.

More importantly, various regional party satraps, barring possibly Tamil Nadu's DMK Chief Minister M K Stalin (but not excluding Nitish Kumar himself) seem wanting to wait for the Karnataka polls before placing the Congress party in the national context.

Some of them may claim wanting to wait until after the Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh polls before making up their minds -- if not on a common candidate, but on seat-sharing in particular.

Independent of some favourable pre-poll surveys (which the BJP naturally has dumped), the Congress cannot afford to lose the Karnataka elections.

It cannot also afford to lose 'honourably' with seats and vote-share closer to the victory mark. It just has to win.

For the ruling BJP, it just cannot afford to lose, even closely.

No one is now talking about the hung assembly last time and the way the BJP Opposition engineered defections after a Congress-JD-S alliance had formed a government.

Such recourse to defection-based government-formation could put the BJP on the defensive not only in Karnataka but also in distant Madhya Pradesh, where too Shivraj Singh Chauhan returned as chief minister only after splitting the ruling Congress under then chief minister Kamal Nath.

Aspiring youthful Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia provided the cause and fulcrum, yes, but even without him, the BJP may have attempted precisely the same act. He was Sachin Pilot's equivalent in MP.

Where the BJP succeeded in MP, Pilot could not do it in native Rajasthan -- and had to stay put in the Grand Old Party, only to start complaining against Gehlot in this election year.

There is a message in it from the Congress. That high command trusted the old guard (Kamal Nath in MP and Gehlot in Rajasthan) and they have proved their loyalty to the party, without yielding to pressures from the BJP.

That was not the case with Scindia and Pilot.

The surmise is that even as Congress chief minister, the likes of Scindia in particular may have had enough for the BJP-ruled Centre to arm-twist them into submission, through raids and tax/court cases.

If true, the Congress high command had a 'visionary' approach to the state of things to come, though on the key issue of 'missionary' commitment to political campaign and electoral victories, they all have a long, long way to go.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has a chat with gig workers and delivery partners in Bengaluru, May 7, 2023.

It is also here that the Congress, even if it wins Karnataka, will have a huge problem on hand.

Long before the elections, the state party was divided over the chief minister's post, even when it was not the party's.

Former CM Siddaramaiah and state party president D K Shivakumar are in the fray.

The former's earlier reign was without great blemishes. The latter faced alleged harassment at the hands of central agencies and continues to face charges and cases flowing from tax raids, aimed at stifling his multiple contributions to the Congress poll machinery the last time round.

Indications are both have been working as much at cross-purposes against each other, even as they are working to a common strategy to defeat the ruling BJP, to begin with.

As if this were not enough, the Congress has admitted into the party a host of BJP veterans, whom the parent party had concluded were not worthy of re-nomination.

The list is long and those that have joined the Congress rival and also have got party nomination in the assembly polls, is equally so.

This has meant that the Congress had to disappoint party men who had been nurturing their respective constituencies with the hope of obtaining party nomination in an election they had hoped that they stood a better chance than in the past. It does not stop there, either.

The top-heavy BJP defectors, if they won, would aspire for major ministerial positions. It is going to hurt loyal Congressmen even more. Either the BJP defectors or dissatisfied Congressmen would then be sitting ducks for the BJP leadership to poach, now or later.

Fighting with his back to the wall, the new chief minister, if from the Congress, will have little or no time for political administration, to ensure that he does not lose the voter's goodwill even before the Lok Sabha polls.

He can count only on one thing. That the BJP may not want to upset him too early lest an early failure should become an added problem for the party in all the polls to follow -- and not just in Karnataka -- may alone be his saving grace.

IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addresses an election meeting in Gurumitkal, Yadgir district, May 4, 2023.

Not many may have noticed it. Even before Nitish Kumar met Mamata Banerjee and Akilesh Yadav, along with his RJD deputy Tejashwi Yadav, in his bid to form an Opposition alliance of some sort, the two, as also Delhi's Arvind Kejriwal, had registered strong protests against Rahul Gandhi's disqualification.

The effect of an appellate court restoring Rahul's Lok Sabha membership, say, pending his appeal in the original criminal defamation case in Gujarat, could cut both ways.

One, the Congress cadres and leaders may want him projected as the anti-BJP prime ministerial candidate, even pre-poll.

Many among the rest may resist it, thus making Nitish's job that much more difficult.

Even without it, the Congress's response to positivity emanating from other anti-BJP parties, both through the Nitish initiative and otherwise, is also not encouraging.

If the BJP Opposition in Delhi criticised Kejriwal recently on his having a lavish house and a luxury car -- which were against his poll promises of simple living even as CM -- the Congress too was too quick to hit out at him in equal vein.

Thereby hangs a tale, a tale about the possibility of an anti-BJP alliance for the Lok Sabha polls, which the Karnataka election results may herald -- one way or the other.

N Sathiya Moorthy, veteran journalist and author, is a Chennai-based policy analyst & political commentator.
Mr Modi might have questions to ask himself on the most formidable strategic challenge before India that he inherited from the UPA: The triangulation between China and Pakistan.

The failure to break out of it, or even loosen it a bit, is something to reflect on, notes Shekhar Gupta.

IMAGE: External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar with Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation foreign ministers' meeting in Goa, May 5, 2023. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo

If the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation ministerial seemed unusually tense by the standards of such multilateral events, it is because two of its key members are at odds with the third.

Or, if you find it more appropriate, because one of its key members, the host, is at odds with the other two.

Don't fall for the temptation the more things change, the more they stay the same.

There are indeed things that remain the same, like India's slow strategic asphyxiation in the China-Pakistan pincer.

Manmohan Singh had described this as a straightforward case of China using Pakistan as a cheap instrument to 'triangulate' India.

Beyond that, since he handed over the keys to Narendra Modi, much has changed.

The SCO summit is a good moment to take stock of what has changed, and what hasn't. For now, let's focus on the three in our triangle.

Then we will explore beyond this, too.

A good place to begin is an assessment of how each of the three neighbours' Comprehensive National Power (CNP) has evolved in this post-2014 decade. The concept of CNP, by the way, is something we owe to the Chinese discourse.

The expression's Chinese original (zhonghe guoli) began appearing in publications emerging out of Beijing just over three decades ago.

As you would imagine, this takes into account a combination of a lot of factors -- not all empirical or measurable -- from the size and growth of the economy, the strength and cohesion of society, and the firepower and quality of the military, to trade and soft power.

But these things are not so easy to quantify and convert into numbers or rankings.

On most metrics, Pakistan, for example, would be a near-nothing today.

Where, however, will its 200-plus nukes and massive armed forces place it overall? Then, see it purely from India's point of view.

Thanks to its nukes and nuisance value, Pakistan isn't as much of a cipher as many in India would have wanted it to be.

The determinants of a nation's CNP, therefore, are also defined by how they affect their friends, adversaries, and neighbours.

Pakistan is today the weakest it's been since the eve of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979.

It's ruled by a coalition government with a pretence of being popularly elected but with even less credibility than dictator Zia-ul Haq in 1979.

I say that with care because Zia's word was the law. Nobody will say so for Shehbaz Sharif's or his cabinet's.

The economy is bankrupt, and the growth rate for the year -- if you believe the International Monetary Fund (which some consider optimistic) -- is 0.5 per cent. It may go up to around 2 per cent next year.

The income gap between Pakistan and not just India, but all of the subcontinent, is now widening at a pace that should alarm Islamabad.

IMAGE: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari meets with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang on the sidelines of the SCO foreign ministers meeting in Goa. Photograph: ANI Photo

It won a suicidal, ego and ideology-driven victory in Afghanistan by defeating its own most valuable ally of 65 years, and is now left with almost no chips on the strategic negotiating table.

If its geostrategic location has been Pakistan's most significant, monetisable asset, it has blown it by backing the Taliban in that bizarre search for strategic depth.

The Gulf Arabs have moved on from where commitment to Sunni Islam determined their policy choices in the region. They have no patience for Pakistan and its constant demands.

This has reduced Pakistan to being China's vassal State today. And even there it has a problem.

Because it now has to share that tent with another, enormously more powerful vassal. It's Russia and it's of way more value to China.

At this point, almost nothing is going right for Pakistan.

It's left with only one card to play: India. Its value to China also lies in keeping India militarily stretched if not off balance.

That's of great value to China. Beyond that, the rest of the world is fed up of its complaints, demands and frequent moral outrage. What this means for India, we will come to in a bit.

China is a complete contrast. The decade has seen Xi Jinping define Chinese power in his name and dictatorial thought, leveraging four decades of superb growth.

Technology, trade, military power, social cohesion and rising global stature have all enabled it to close the gap with the US and the larger Western power, and increase the gap with the rest, especially India. Which is all that matters to us.

Strategically, the war in Ukraine has been both good and bad for China.

On balance, probably more bad than good. It knocks out the BRI plans for now, it weakens its most important ally, and unites the West.

The good thing is how dependent Russia is on China.

In any 2014-2024 projection, regrettably, on no parameter of CNP can India credibly be considered to have narrowed the gap with China.

India has grown phenomenally in many areas and there is much good happening. For example, the massive new construction of heavy, physical infrastructure -- roads, ports, airways, power and so on.

IMAGE: Foreign ministers at the SCO summit in Goa. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo

The management of the fisc and deficits despite the pandemic have been big pluses, and the growth rate is still the world's highest for a large economy.

But the inherited gap was too much, China isn't slowing, and even if India grows faster now, the distance between the two will increase.

Nothing will alter the fact that China's economy is more than five times India's.

The bitter truth is, the gap will rise even if Chinese growth slows down to less than half of India's.

Militarily, wide budgetary and firepower gaps apart, China has very deliberately dragged us in strength to the borders.

In the process, India is fully stretched militarily along both frontiers.

I am searching for parallels, but cannot find a phase in our history when we were so fully committed operationally on both frontiers.

The trouble is, in this equation India has no initiative to seize militarily, except to wait in case the other side makes a move.

Those moves, meanwhile, are in our vital neighbourhood, Bhutan, for example.

Which brings us to a place we are familiar with. Because we've been there for more than six decades now.

In his 10th year as prime minister, and the last in his second term, what would Narendra Modi write in his self-appraisal report on India's CNP and strategic positioning? The picture on the CNP is pretty good.

India's is a remarkable success story of a country becoming so enormously powerful long before it became rich.

Or even lower middle class. None of this is God given. Mr Modi and his government's management of the larger national interest deserve some credit for this.

In the self-appraisal process, however, Mr Modi might have questions to ask himself on the most formidable strategic challenge before India that he inherited from the United Progressive Alliance: The triangulation between China and Pakistan.

The slow-asphyxiation by an unmoving pincer.

The failure to break out of it, or even loosen it a bit, is something to reflect on.

You wouldn't believe merely maintaining India's strategic status quo of 2014 was on his list of KRAs as he concludes a decade in power.

By special arrangement with The Print
South Africas Eastern Cape is getting its own internet exchange point (IXP). INX-ZA, an autonomous division of the Internet Service Providers Association (ISPA) of South Africa, has launched the Nelson Mandela Bay IXP, or NMBINX in Gqeberha, about 770 km east of Cape Town, providing what is described as a boost for business and for the growth and development of the Eastern Cape internet ecosystem.

NMBINX is the newest addition to INX-ZAs community-run IXP services. The Gqeberha IXP will be fully operational within the next month. INX-ZA operates South Africas only community-run internet exchanges  in Cape Town (CINX), Durban (DINX), Johannesburg (JINX) and now Nelson Mandela Bay (NMBINX).

NMBINX offers network operators in the Eastern Cape region the opportunity to improve their internet connectivity and performance by connecting to other local networks, content providers and cloud service providers through a single peering point.

This will result, we are told, in faster and more efficient routing of traffic, reduced latency, and improved network resilience. This region has a history of outages due to multiple simultaneous backhaul failures, says ISPA, and this development should lessen the impact of such network disruptions.

ISPA is a South African non-profit company and recognised internet industry representative body. It facilitates exchange between the different independent internet service providers, regulator ICASA and other government structures, operators and other service providers in South Africa.

From June, if a consumer is making use of an ISP based in Nelson Mandela Bay, instead of the content being backhauled all the way from Johannesburg it can be served locally.

To promote interconnection in the region, INX-ZA has waived port fees and the co-location facility has waived monthly recurring fees for cross-connects.
'The government or the ruling party has indicated indirectly that you are not supposed to publish anything critical of the government or the senior functionaries of the government.'

IMAGE: Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar conducts the proceedings of the House on the last day of the second phase of the Budget session of Parliament, April 6, 2023. Photograph: Sansad TV/ANI

Did you know that a Rajya Sabha MP was summoned by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar seeking an explanation for a newspaper article he wrote, critical of Home Minister Amit A Shah.

The MP is John Brittas, a Rajya Sabha member from Kerala.

"This is not an action against me, this is precisely against the media freedom of the country," John Brittas, a journalist turned MP, seen, below, tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.

Were you taken aback when you received a summons from the Rajya Sabha chairman asking for an explanation about an article you wrote?

It was unprecedented. But I won't say I was taken aback. I was at a loss to understand how it involved the office of the chairman.

Nevertheless, since I have high respect for the office of the chairman of the Rajya Sabha, I agreed to be present for the meeting he wanted.

When I met him, there were a few higher-level officers also present.

What was the conversation about?

The conversation was about the complaint he had received with regard to an article I had written in the Indian Express.

Since I had not seen the complaint, he showed it to me.

The complaint was in very strong words and charged me with sedition, etc.

I told him that I had written the article as a citizen of India.

As he wanted a formal written explanation, I said I needed to have a copy of the complaint. So, he gave me a copy so that I could respond to it properly.

The complaint was from a BJP member from Kerala...

He is not just a member of the BJP; he is the general secretary of the BJP's Kerala unit.

How did he make your criticism of the home minister seditious in the complaint?

I am at a loss to understand that. I think we should go back to the (British) Crown. That anything that was said against the Crown (during the British occupation of India) was seditious!

And the very complaint has been submitted at a juncture when the Supreme Court is reviewing whether the idea of sedition is in tune with democratic practices.

And the Centre has filed an affidavit that they are at an advanced stage of reviewing the archaic or a colonial provision.

I find that there is a mismatch between what has been submitted by the Government of India and what has been submitted by the functionary of the ruling political party.

Has anyone made such complaints about an MP to the Rajya Sabha chairman before?

To the best of my knowledge, there is no precedent of anyone making such a complaint.

Also, there is no precedent of the Rajya Sabha secretariat taking cognisance to such a complaint.

So, this could be the first in the history of this country.

Does that mean any politician criticising another politician in an interview or an article can be questioned by another citizen?

When I said I was a bit baffled, it was because I had not come across such a situation.

What I wrote was in response to a remark made by the home minister while he was in Karnataka. He had said, beware, there is Kerala near you.

The inference was a very negative connotation with regard to Kerala. He meant that Kerala is bad.

Kerala is not Pakistan, Kerala is not an enemy country, Kerala is part of the country.

Kerala is not anything that is against the spirit of nationalism or patriotism.

That's why I started the article like this. 'There is no rule that the Union home minister should know the Indian Penal Code by heart. So Amit Shah can be pardoned for probably not knowing about Section 153 A of IPC, which deals with "promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony". This section may be read along with Article 1 of the Indian Constitution -- India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of states.'

There is nothing seditious in it.

I can very well say that what he demonstrated or said was not in the spirit of the provisions of the IPC or the Constitution.

That's why I had to remind him of that. That's why I referred to Section 153A of the IPC.

Have we reached a stage that the prime minister or home minister or anyone in power is above criticism?

That's essentially why I said, I was baffled and confused by the complaint and the summons.

I don't want any special privilege as a Member of Parliament. But as a citizen, Fundamental Right 19 1 (a) clearly says that I have freedom of speech and expression in this country.

So, I was just dwelling on my Fundamental Right of freedom of speech and expression as a citizen can. This is the basic part of the Constitution.

It was no personal remark against the home minister. It was in response to a remark he made publicly.

There were no innuendo, there was no aspersion cast on the home minister.

It was a plain response to a remark he made against the state of Kerala and it was hugely debated in Kerala too. In fact, the chief minister of Kerala also came out with a statement on that.

I would also say that I was contributing to the debate after I was approached by the Indian Express to write an article because there was a controversy. It was a healthy debate actually.

Where will this kind of a situation where people accuse each other of sedition lead to?

That's a question the country has been pondering over for a long time now.

We have seen how innocent people are put behind bars, how UAPA has been rampantly misused, and how you are bringing in provisions like sedition on the drop of a hat.

This is precisely the reason why the Supreme Court took it on itself to hear the petition on sedition.

What about press freedom? You were a journalist. You were summoned for an article you wrote.

In the recent Global Press Freedom Index, India has slipped further to 161 out of 180 countries...

If they had considered this incident of me writing an article in the Indian Express, it would have gone down further!

When I say I am concerned, it was not because it was a complaint against me. I am more concerned because this is a complaint against the media.

This is a warning to the media that you are not supposed to write critical pieces.

What is left today were the open pages, and now the government or the ruling party has indicated indirectly that you are not supposed to publish anything critical of the government or the senior functionaries of the government.

So, I would say this is not an action against me, this is precisely against the media freedom of the country.
Five cheetahs -- three females and two males -- will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park before the onset of the monsoon in June, the Union environment ministry said on Monday.

IMAGE: A combination of pictures shows the two male coalition cheetahs identified as Elton and Freddie that were released in a free-ranging area, at Kuno National Park, in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh, March 23, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

It also said the cheetahs will be allowed to move out of KNP and will not necessarily be "recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger".

So far, four of the eight cheetahs brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP.

"Five more cheetahs (three females and two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-roaming conditions in KNP before the onset of the monsoon rains in June," it said in a statement.

The decision was taken after a team of experts reviewed the current status of the "Project Cheetah" on the directions of the National Tiger Conservation Authority.

They expert team said all the cheetahs were in good physical condition, making kills at regular intervals and displaying natural behaviours.

Cheetahs were chosen for release based on their behavioural characteristics and approachability by the monitoring teams.

The rest of the cheetahs will remain in the acclimatisation camps for the duration of the monsoon season.

"Certain internal gates will be left open to allow these cheetahs to utilise more space and for interactions between specific males and females to take place," the ministry said.

The situation will be reviewed after the monsoon season and further releases into KNP or surrounding areas will be done in a planned manner as per the Cheetah Conservation Action Plan to establish meta population, it said.

Of the four cheetahs that have already been released into free-ranging conditions, two (Gaurav and Shaurya) have stayed within the park and have not shown any interest in exploring the landscape beyond the borders of the park, according to the statement.

A female cheetah named Aasha has made two exploratory excursions to the east of KNP beyond the buffer zone but has remained within the broader Kuno landscape and has not ventured into human-dominated areas.

Another male (Pawan) explored areas well beyond the boundaries of the park on two occasions, venturing into farmland near the border with Uttar Pradesh during his second excursion. He was darted by the veterinary team and returned to an acclimatisation camp in KNP.

The ministry said cheetahs, like other large carnivores, are known to range widely during the initial few months after being reintroduced into unfamiliar open systems.

"These movements are unpredictable and depend on many factors. After several months, the cheetahs should establish their own communication networks and settle down in relatively fixed home ranges.

"It is important that individual cheetahs do not become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase as they will then not participate in breeding and will thus be genetically isolated," it said.

Their degree of isolation will be assessed once they settle down and appropriate action will be taken to enhance their connectivity to the group.

Several wildlife experts have said that Project Cheetah overestimated the carrying capacity of KNP, and linked it to the incidents of Pavan straying out of the national park.

The expert team said it is impossible to determine the precise carrying capacity of cheetah in KNP until they have properly established their home ranges and that the home ranges of cheetahs can overlap substantially depending on the prey density and several other factors.

"While many have made predictions about the anticipated carrying capacity of cheetahs in KNP based on other ecosystems in Namibia and East Africa, the actual number of animals that the reserve can accommodate can only be assessed after the animals are released and have established home ranges," it said.

"Cheetah home-range sizes and population densities vary tremendously for different cheetah populations in Africa and for obvious reasons, we do not have useful spatial ecology data for cheetahs in India yet," the ministry said.

Under the ambitious Cheetah reintroduction programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch of eight spotted felines -- five females and three males -- from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno in Madhya Pradesh on his 72nd birthday on September 17 last year.

In a second such translocation, 12 cheetahs were flown in from South Africa and released into Kuno on February 18.

One of the Namibian cheetahs, Sasha, died due to a kidney-related ailment in March. Another cheetah, Uday, from South Africa died on April 13.

On the death of the two cheetahs, the ministry said chronic renal failure is a common problem in captive cheetahs and many other captive felid species, but is not infectious and cannot be transmitted from one animal to another.

An initial examination revealed Uday had most likely died of terminal cardio-pulmonary failure.

Failure of the heart and lungs is common in the terminal stages of many conditions and does not provide much information about the underlying cause of the problem, it said.
A 27-year-old Indian woman, who was working in the US as a project engineer, was among nine people killed when a gunman opened fire at a crowded mall in Dallas in Texas, authorities said on Monday.

IMAGE: Shoppers leave with their hands up after the police responded to a gunman who shot and killed nine people and wounded at many others at Allen Premium Outlets mall north of Dallas, Allen, Texas, US, May 6, 2023. Photograph: Reuters/Reuters TV

Aishwarya Thatikonda, of McKinney, was shopping with a friend when they were shot by gunman Mauricio Garcia at the Allen Premium Outlets in Dallas, the New York Post newspaper reported.

The shooting erupted around 3:30 pm on Saturday as throngs of shoppers filled the outdoor mall. The shooting killed at least eight people before Mauricio Garcia, a 33-year-old gunman, was shot dead by a police officer.

Aishwarya, daughter of a district judge in Ranga Reddy district court in Telangana, worked as a project engineer at Perfect General Contractors LLC.

A family representative confirmed to the WFAA television station that Thatikonda was also among the dead from the senseless gun violence.

Aishwarya had spoken to her family members before the incident on Saturday, and when they called her back after learning about the shooting they did not get any response, according to the judge's friend.

"The family got the information about (her death) on Sunday. They are in shock. They have been told that efforts were being made to send her body by Wednesday," the judge's friend said.

She was an engineer living and working in Texas while her family was in India. Her friend, who was not identified, was injured but is currently in stable condition at the hospital, the paper said.

Thatikonda's family is planning to bring her body back to India, it added.

The Consulate General of India in Houston said it was in touch with the family of the deceased as well as the local authorities.

"We express our deep condolences to the family of Ms. Aishwarya Thatikonda who died in the tragic shooting incident in Allen, Texas on May 6. We are in touch with the family of the deceased as well as the local authorities. Our officers are on the ground to render all possible assistance. We are closely monitoring the situation," it said in a tweet on Monday.

Aishwarya did her civil engineering from a college in Hyderabad in India and completed her masters in the US after which she had been working there for more than two years.

Garcia, the gunman, was shot and killed by an officer who was patrolling the area.

A Dallas home linked to Garcia's parents was searched by police Saturday night after the massacre, and officials also scoured a motel where the shooter had booked an extended stay, law-enforcement sources told local outlet WFAA-TV.

In a statement about the shooting, the mall said, We are horrified by the senseless tragedy at Allen Premium Outlets and are outraged by the violence that continues to plague our country.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and others affected by this heinous act. We are thankful for the Allen Police Officer's heroic actions and for the support of all the first responders.

So far there have been at least 198 mass shootings in the United States in 2023, according to the gun violence archive.

Saturday's tragedy occurred just a couple of weeks before the first anniversary of the Uvalle, Texas School massacre when 19 children and two adults were killed by a gunman at Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022.

It comes just days after a gunman became enraged during a visit to an Atlanta medical facility, allegedly shooting dead at least one person with a handgun and injuring four others before he was caught hours later.

Saturday's incident is the second-deadliest shooting of the year in the country, after the Monterey Park, California, massacre in which a gunman killed 11 people in a ballroom on January 21.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial film The Kerala Story to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, a senior official said in Kolkata.

Action will be taken against any theatre found showing the film, the official said.

Earlier in the day, Banerjee described The Kerala Story as a distorted movie, aimed at defaming the southern state.

"To avoid any incident of hatred and violence and to maintain peace in the state, the CM has directed an immediate ban on screening of The Kerala Story. Action will be taken against any cinema hall that violates the ban," the bureaucrat told PTI.

The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen, depicts how women from Kerala were converted to Islam and recruited by Islamic State terrorist group. The film was released on May 5.

Meanwhile the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday slammed Banerjee for banning the movie, and said her decision raises serious questions on civil liberties and freedom of expression.

BJP's I-T department head Amit Malviya said the decision is unfortunate as the movie gives a "real account of victims who have endured the horrors of demographic invasion and have been used as cannon fodder" for the terrorist organisation IS.

Who is Mamata Banerjee trying to please with this ban? Does she think Muslims of Bengal relate more to the IS than the Indian Constitution? Shame on her regressive politics.

"There was no threat to law and order in Bengal because of the movie, which was being screened in over a dozen cinema halls in Kolkata alone. But now, with this dog whistle, one can expect the worse," he said.

Several BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have spoken favourably of the movie.
The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday moved the Election Commission seeking action against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and derecognition of her party for her use of the term "sovereignty" for Karnataka during the state poll campaign. The party also demanded an FIR against her.

IMAGE: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi addresses a public meeting in Hubballi ahead of assembly Karnataka polls on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo

A BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll panel in Delhi over the issue.

"Karnataka is a very important member state in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous and pernicious consequences," the party said.

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh, who was part of the delegation besides BJP MP Anil Baluni and leader Om Pathak, cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

The BJP also submitted a copy of the Congress tweet quoting Gandhi, the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson, on the issue.

The opposition party had tweeted, "CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: 'The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity'."

The BJP filed a complaint with the Election Commission in Bengaluru as well and requested it to issue direction for registration of an FIR against her over the use of the word "sovereignty".

Noting that a "sovereign" by definition is an independent nation, the complaint said, "When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. India is a sovereign country and the state of Karnataka is a proud part in it. Till today no one raised any question about the integrity of Kannadigas with the sovereignty of the nation."

The complaint added, "The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India. This statement is divisive in nature. It is aimed at dividing the citizens and creating a rift between people of different states. Karnataka is not different from India. This is a shocking statement leading to igniting divisive sentiments and to create disharmony in the society."

Describing the Congress's tweet quoting Gandhi as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Gandhi had violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement".

Karandlaje, convener of the BJP election management committee, also requested the EC to issue directions to register an FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

"This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for India's independence. It is an insult to crores of patriotic Kannadigas, who swear by India and cherish their Indianness," said the Union minister of state for agriculture and farmers' welfare.

The statement would lead to division on the basis of language and statehood, the complaint alleged.

The BJP also demanded that the Congress should apologise for its advertisement listing "corruption rates" in the state, between 2019 and 2023, while attacking the BJP government.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.
Pakistani authorities are expected to go ahead with its goodwill gesture to release on Friday 199 Indian fishermen arrested for allegedly fishing illegally in the country's waters, despite the death of an Indian civilian who was to be repatriated with them.

IMAGE: An April 2010 photograph of Indian fishermen detained in the lockup of a Karachi police station.

Photograph: Athar Hussain/Reuters

Kazi Nazir, a top police official in the jail and corrections department in Sindh, said that they had been told by relevant government ministries to prepare for the release and repatriation of 199 fishermen on Friday. These fishermen will be sent to Lahore and handed over to Indian authorities at the Wagah border. Currently, these fishermen are lodged at the Landhi jail here.

He said the goodwill gesture process appeared on the course although an Indian civilian prisoner, Zulfiqar, who was to be repatriated with the fishermen died in a hospital in Karachi on Saturday due to an illness.

"According to officials at Landhi jail the Indian prisoner had complained about high fever and chest problems and his condition deteriorated last week so he was sent to the hospital where he passed away due to apparent lung infection, he said.

An official of Edhi Welfare Trust, which usually arranges for the safe transportation of these Indian fishermen to Lahore and provides other help in jails, said that Zulfiqar's death was not a mystery as conditions in the Landhi and Malir jails are far from ideal and prisoners with poor health and chronic ailments struggle to get regular proper treatment.

Prison doctors or the hospital are generally not equipped to deal with serious ailments and recommend sending the patient to hospital but sometimes it is too late, the official said.

According to the Pakistan India People's Forum for Peace and Democracy, at present 631 Indian fishermen and one civilian prisoner are still in the Landhi and Malir jails in Karachi despite completing their prison sentences.

Adil Sheikh, who works with the forum in Karachi, said that these Indian fishermen all ended up in Pakistani jails after being arrested for allegedly violating the marine territorial demarcation treaty between Pakistan and India.

Nearly all of them are poor illiterate people, he added.

In the past as well, a few Indian civilian prisoners have died in hospitals because of illnesses, as per prison authorities.

A total of 654 Indian fishermen are languishing in Karachi jails while an estimated 83 Pakistani fishermen are in Indian jails. Out of the 654 Indian fishermen, 631 have completed their sentences and are awaiting repatriation.

Pakistan and India regularly arrest rival fishermen for violating the maritime boundary, which is poorly marked at some points.
Several farmers broke through police barricades on Monday to join the wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh here even as the Delhi police denied any untoward incident at the site.

IMAGE: Farmers break through police barricades to join the wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI

Purported videos showed farmers climbing the barricades and even dragging and pushing some of them away in a bid to enter the protest venue.

Hours later, the police barricades, which were damaged during the hustle, were welded together and placed at the site as part of a precautionary measure to ensure that no untoward incident takes place.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Pranav Tayal said the incident occurred when some farmers were "in a hurry" to reach the dharna site.

The barricades were removed to escort the farmers into the site and the meeting was being held peacefully, he added.

"A group of farmers were escorted to Jantar Mantar. At entry barricades they were in a hurry to reach the dharna site and some of them climbed the barricades which fell down and were removed by them. Policemen kept the barricades aside to facilitate their entry," the DCP said in a tweet.

"The protestors have reached the dharna site and the meeting is going on peacefully," he added.

The police insisted that there was no clash with the protesters and that the cops at the site were facilitating the protesters and ensuring a peaceful gathering.

"All are requested not to believe in fake news. The protestors at Jantar Mantar are being facilitated. Entry is being regulated through DFMD to ensure safety. Please remain peaceful and abide by the law," a tweet by the Delhi police's official Twitter handle said.

Farmers in large numbers reached the site to express their solidarity with the protesting wrestlers. Demanding justice for female wrestlers, the farmers, carrying their union flags, raised anti-Modi slogans.

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also joined the protesters and addressed them.

Taking to Twitter, she shared pictures from the protest site and demanded justice for the wresters.

"In solidarity with our women wrestlers. Justice needs to be served, the GoI should stop shielding the accused," she tweeted.

In a statement, Sanyukt Kisan Morcha said thousands of farmers gathered at Bangla Sahib Gurudwara around 11 am and marched on foot towards Jantar Mantar.

Farmer leaders said they stand united with the wrestlers and that they will work under the leadership of protesting wrestlers.

Today they will have to fight to save the honour of the daughters of this nation as well as their agriculture at the same time, the leaders said.

"A case under the POCSO Act has been registered against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh. Yet he has not been called by Delhi Police for questioning. He is being shielded by BJP leaders. These female wrestlers are our daughters and we will fight for their honour," a farmer leader said.

The wrestlers are on a sit-in at Jantar Mantar since April 23 demanding action against the WFI chief over allegations of sexual harassment against him.

In last week of April, Delhi Police registered two FIRs in connection with the sexual harassment allegations levelled by women wrestlers against Singh.

The first FIR pertains to allegations levelled by a minor which has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act along with relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code concerning outraging modesty, according to a police officer.

The second FIR has been registered for carrying out comprehensive investigations into the complaints by adult complainants under relevant IPC sections pertaining to outraging of modesty, the officer said, adding investigation into both the FIRs was being taken up in right earnest.

Delhi Police has recorded statements of all the seven complainants in the case, including the minor girl.
A day after the tragic tourist boat accident that claimed the lives of 22 people including women and children, the Kerala government on Monday announced a judicial probe into the matter and decided to give a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased.

IMAGE: Rescue operation underway after a boat capsized near Thoovaltheeram beach, at Tanur in Malappuram district, May 8, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo

The boat capsized near an estuary close to the Thoovaltheeram beach in Tanur area around 7.30 pm on Sunday.

According to district officials, 15 of the deceased are minors aged eight months to 17 years. There were 37 persons onboard the ill-fated boat, revenue minister K Rajan said.

The Tanur police said a case was registered on Sunday itself against the owner of the boat, which reportedly did not have a licence to function.

The owner, who was absconding, was apprehended by the the police in Kozhikode on Monday.

The State Human Rights Commission also took a suo motu (on its own) case based on media reports.

Addressing the media in Malappuram after visiting Tirurangandi taluk hospital and meeting the Kunnummal family that lost 11 members, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan termed the accident a "tragedy" and said the government would bear the treatment expenses of those receiving treatment.

Vijayan announced the probe and a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to be given to the families of each of those who died in the boat capsized after an all-party meeting held at Tanur in which senior opposition leaders also participated,.

"The all-party meeting has decided on a judicial inquiry in this matter. The probe will cover technical issues related to the boat's safety, among other matters. A judicial commission comprising technical experts will be formed. A special investigation team of the Kerala police will also probe the matter," Vijayan told the media.

The Chief Minister said the government had earlier set up a safety protocol for tourist boats and would examine whether the laid down protocols were followed or not in connection with the incident.

He also informed the media that two out of the 10 people admitted to the hospital had been discharged, and currently there were eight under treatment.

The statements of the survivors, bystanders, and local residents of the area reveal that the vessel was a fishing boat that was converted into a recreational one, it did not have a licence to offer boating services, it lacked sufficient safety equipment like life jackets, and the same was not provided to passengers while the boat was filled beyond capacity.

Leader of Opposition in the assembly and senior Congress leader VD Satheesan, who visited the accident site and the homes of those who died in the tragedy, termed it a "man-made disaster".

BJP state president K Surendran too spoke along similar lines and also demanded the resignation of tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas, according to a statement issued by his party, and alleged that the tragedy occurred due to the negligence of the state government.

After monitoring the situation of those under treatment, health minister Veena George said the government will provide support and counselling to the victims' families.

She said child counsellors will be engaged to help the children overcome the trauma of the accident.

Meanwhile, the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, upon request from the Kerala government, deployed a helicopter with an aircrew diver to Poorapuzha today, along with three Indian Navy diving teams comprising 15 divers carrying with them necessary diving sets, gear and equipment.

The Coast Guard Disaster Relief Team from Beypore station also joined the rescue operations along with the National Disaster Response Force, fire and rescue team, and local populace in providing emergency first-aid to the casualties, the Navy said in a release.

The team continuously monitored the situation and continued to provide support to civilian authorities. The officials from Indian Coast Guard Station, Beypore, met district officials for the purpose of coordinating further operations.

The ICG has also deployed Indian Coast Guard Ship C-144 off Tanur, and ICG Chetak is kept on standby for meeting further requirements, the Navy release said.

Local residents said the boat was packed beyond its capacity of 20 persons and that its operators did not heed to the warning of onlookers that the vessel was tilting to one side.

"It was a tragedy which was invited. It could have been avoided if the boat was not overcrowded or if it had not been operated beyond the permissible time. When the boat reached a bend in the river, it overturned as it was already tilting to one side," local residents said.

Earlier in the day, Minister Rajan said that seven teams, including the NDRF, Indian Coast Guard, fire services, the Navy and local people were involved in the search and rescue mission.

"The deaths of 22 people have been confirmed. We have identified that there were 37 people on the vessel. Five of them swam to safety yesterday. It was a private boat, and there is no official count of passengers," Rajan said.

The state government announced a day of mourning on Monday and cancelled all official events as a mark of respect to those who lost their lives in the accident.
Making an emotional appeal to voters in his home turf on the last day of campaigning, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday said he was 81 years old and if someone wanted to finish him off, they could, but he would until his last breath continue to fight for the poor and try to protect their interests.

IMAGE: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge addresses a public meeting for the Karnataka assembly elections, at Chittapur, in Kalaburagi, May 7, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Kharge also urged voters to take pride in the fact that he as a bhoomi putra of Karnataka had been made All India Congress Committee president, and sought a win for the Congress in that name.

Congress had recently alleged that an assassination plot had been hatched to "wipe out" Kharge, his wife and his entire family by a Bharatiya Janata Party candidate.

It had shared an alleged audio recording of the BJP candidate from Chittapur constituency in Kalaburagi district, Manikanta Rathod, in which he is heard purportedly saying in Kannada that he would wipe out "Kharge, his wife and children".

"It seems that it might have come into the minds of BJP leaders to finish me off. If not, who will have the courage to say that he wants to finish off Kharge and family? If he has to say it, some BJP leader should be behind him, or else it will not," Kharge said.

Addressing a public meeting in Kalaburagi, he said, no one could finish him off easily.

"I have Babasaheb's Constitution to protect me, the people of Kalaburagi and Karnataka are behind me. Now after becoming AICC president, the people of the country are behind me. You may finish me and my family... If I go, someone else may emerge," he said.

Rathod rejected the charges outright and said, "It is all a lie. They are playing some fake audio. The Congress is leveling baseless allegations fearing defeat."

Further accusing the BJP of going around saying everywhere that they wanted to finish him off as he and his son are speaking against them, the AICC chief said, "Modi is also behaving similarly. Speak about me, why son? He is not to your level. Speak about me it's fine, I've been in politics for 52 years...but why my family?"

Saying that he had lost his entire family once in his childhood and was left alone, he added, "I'm still alive and will continue to live with the blessings of the people."

"...let them do whatever they want, but I'm also strong. A man may live up to a hundred years or 90 years, but in India average life is 70 or 71. I'm already in my bonus period, I'm 81 years now. If I live, I may live for another eight or nine years, no worries. If you want to finish me off before that, finish if your problems will be resolved. I'm ready," said Kharge.

"But until I have my last breath, I will continue to fight for the poor and try to protect them. Until you (people) are with me, I have no fear," he added.

Kharge also urged the people of Kalaburagi to ensure that Congress won all seats in the region in "response" to the party making him its national president, suggesting that it was a matter of pride.

Pointing out that because of the blessings of the people of Kalaburagi he was in Parliament and had been in the Assembly, and worked in various capacities including Leader of Opposition,

Kharge said though he lost the Lok Sabha polls, Sonia Gandhi had made him a Rajya Sabha member and then Leader of Opposition, and above all he has been made the AICC president.

"It is a matter of pride of Gulbarga (Kalaburagi), not mine," he said.

Stating that he may die some day, he said, "But Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) has got the post of Congress national president and saving it is in your hand, bringing respect to it is in your hands. Or else others will say Gulbarga (Kalaburagi) was made president but people there didn't even choose an MLA."

Kharge asked the people to ensure that Congress won all the seats in Kalaburagi and Yadgir districts.

"You should make sure Congress wins all 13 seats. Then I will get respect and also to those who made me president, and also to you, as I'm no one without you."

In 52 years, he had brought no bad name to his people, he said.

"I have fought against JD-S (Janata Dal-Secular), BJP, Modi in Parliament, I have fought for justice," said the Congress chief.

Noting that he had gone to Gujarat for election campaigning, the AICC president said Modi there was urging people to vote for BJP as he was the bhoomi putra of Gujarat and Ahmedabad and requested them to save his dignity.

In the same way, Kharge said, he himself was seeking votes from his people in Kalaburagi and Karnataka.

"I want to tell Modi now that I'm the bhoomi putra of Karnataka and Gulbarga (Kalaburagi). The right you have in Gujarat, I have here and I should get it. You have done nothing for my place, but I'm asking after working for my region. What have you done to seek votes here?" he asked.
A MiG-21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed into a house in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan on Monday, leaving three women dead and as many others injured on the ground, officials said.

IMAGE: Locals gather after a MiG-21 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed on a house in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district on Monday, May 8, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo

The pilot sustained minor injuries as he ejected from the plane that crashed at around 9:45 am, the IAF said, adding a Court of Inquiry has been set up to ascertain the cause of the accident.

The plane was on a routine training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh in Ganganagar district, which is close to Hanumangarh.

"Soon thereafter, the pilot experienced an onboard emergency, following which he attempted to recover the aircraft as per existing procedures," the IAF said in a statement.

"Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection, sustaining minor injuries in the process. The pilot was recovered from about 25 km North East of Suratgarh base," it said.

The IAF said the "wreckage of the aircraft fell on a house in Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh district, unfortunately leading to the loss of three lives."

"The IAF regrets the loss of lives and offers its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident," it said.

The incident has once again put the spotlight on the poor safety record of MiG-21 jets which have been involved in 400 crashes in the last six decades.

Inspector general of police, Bikaner range, Om Prakash said the pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and the plane crash-landed on the outskirts of a village.

"Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said.

Superintendent of police, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed into the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur.

Burns led to the death of the women, he said.

The house was completely damaged and some nearby structures were also affected.

A resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashed into the house of Ratti Ram and the wood stored there caught fire.

"Local people immediately started efforts to douse the flames with water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the resident told reporters in Hanumangarh.

Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers.

The family members of the victims refused to accept the bodies and demanded compensation of Rs 50 lakh and government job.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot expressed grief over the incident and said that compensation under Chiranjeevi Insurance will be given to the kin of the victims.

Hanumangarh collector Rukmani Riar said that a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each under the scheme will be paid to the families of the deceased women.

She said that they are talking to the family members of the victims to convince them to conduct their last rites.

At present, the IAF has three MiG-21 squadrons with a total of around 50 aircraft, according to officials. The IAF last year finalised a timeline of three years to phase out the remaining Mig-21 fighter squadrons.

In March last year, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhat said in Rajya Sabha that 42 defence personnel were killed in accidents involving aircraft and helicopters of the three services in the last five years.
A year after the Hotel Saratoga explosion: 'Everything remains the same' 'I haven't received any help, material or anything else,' complains a resident of a building that suffered damage from the explosion.

La Habana

La Habana

A year after the explosion that destroyed the Hotel Saratoga in Havana, and several buildings around it, many of those affected told DIARIO DE CUBA, on a visit to the area, that "everything remains the same."

The explosion, which occurred on May 6, 2022, and that the government attributed to a gas leak, killed 47 people, including several minors. 100 people suffered injuries.

The historic Hotel Saratoga has been under repair for several months, but, at first glance, no progress is evident. Hardly any workers are seen on the site, nor is there any heavy equipment.

The entire hotel is surrounded by a high metal fence preventing access to it. Meanwhile, in the semi-destroyed and vandalized building adjacent to it, no repair work is carried out, and the contiguous Baptist church continues to be cracked.

Yasmany is a community resident who was spending the afternoon drinking rum with friends by the fence of the Teatro Marti, another emblematic piece of Cuba's architectural heritage damaged by the explosion. "Everything is the same here," he said. "The work at the hotel is not progressing at all, and they say it's going to be taken over by Vietnamese investors."

In September 2022 the Havana City Historian's Office said that the damage suffered by the Teatro Marti (theater) was greater than initially calculated, and that the work to refurbish it was one of the "most complex" that its heritage restoration company had faced. The theater reopened that same month. A school was also repaired.

"As for the residents who lost their homes, they continue to be accommodated at the Villa Panamericana, and they've mollified them with the story that they're going to build them homes here in Old Havana," Yasmany said.

In the nearby building on Monte 12, between Egido and Zulueta, Maria Elena Perez Mijenes, 66, who a year ago expressed her fear of a collapse due to the damage the building suffered from the explosion at the Saratoga, said she has not received "any help, material or anything else."

"The residents, each with their own means, fixed the damage from the explosion as best they could. In my apartment the beam and the bathroom wall were cracked, and I had to pay someone to repair it," added Perez Mijenes.

"The building, in general, remains in very poor condition, with dust released whenever the trucks go by. Any day something terrible is going to happen, but I have nowhere to go but Columbus Cemetery."

In the months following the blast, residents evacuated from damaged buildings reported the theft of belongings that the government forced them to leave behind.

"They broke down the door and stole everything from me. I came to get things from the kitchen and there's nothing left," said Barbara Tenreyro, a resident on the Calle Prado 69.

In addition to that at number 609, the explosion severely damaged the buildings at Prado 617, Zulueta 512, Zulueta 508 and other nearby ones.

In January the regime's official press announced the delivery of eight homes to families affected by the explosion. It admitted, however, that the apartments, located on the Calle Vives and the Calle Carmen, in Old Havana, lacked electrical installations.

Two months later, the newspaper Trabajadores insinuated that the families did not want to move into the new and "comfortable" homes because they preferred to stay, "with all the advantages that this implies" in the Las Brisas aparthotel, at the Villa Panamericana. The publication did not ask those affected why they had not moved.

In any case, even if they were inhabitable, as Trabajadores contended, the eight homes would be insufficient. Some 30 affected families would still be waiting for a home.

The unresolved damage aside, the Government has yet to disclose the results of an investigation it announced into the causes of the Saratoga explosion.
The crash of a MiG-21 jet in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh on Monday has once again put the spotlight on the Indian Air Force's aging fleet of Soviet-origin aircraft which have been involved in around 400 accidents since their first induction in the early 1960s.

IMAGE: Then Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria flies MiG-21 Bison during a visit to a fighter squadron at a frontline airbase, August 13, 2020. Photograph: Courtesy @IAF_MCC/Twitter

Three people were killed after the MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed into a house in Hanumangarh in Rajasthan shortly after it took off for a routine training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh.

The MiG-21s used to be the mainstay of the IAF for a long period of time.

After its induction in the early 1960s, the Indian Air Force procured over 870 MiG-21 fighters to boost its overall combat prowess.

However, the aircraft has a very poor safety record.

According to official data, the MiG-21s were involved in 400 crashes in the last six decades.

At present, the IAF has three MiG-21 squadrons with a total of around 50 aircraft, according to officials. The IAF last year finalised a timeline of three years to phase out the remaining Mig-21 fighter squadrons.

The IAF also plans to start the phasing out of the three squadrons of Mig-29 fighter jets in the next five years, they said.

The plan to phase out the Soviet-origin aircraft fleet is part of the IAF's modernisation drive.

"The MiG-21 phase-out plan is on track," said a military official.

The official said the phase-out plan is not linked to the recent accidents involving the platforms.

As part of the IAF's modernisation plan, the defence ministry in February 2021, sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 83 Tejas jets.

The IAF has already procured 36 Rafale jets to enhance its combat capabilities.

The IAF is also in the process of acquiring 114 medium role fighter aircraft.

In March last year, Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhat said in Rajya Sabha that 42 defence personnel were killed in accidents involving aircraft and helicopters of the three services in the last five years.

The total number of air accidents in the last five years was 45 out of which 29 involved IAF's platforms, according to official data.

Two pilots of the IAF were killed in July last year when their twin-seater Mig-21 trainer aircraft crashed during a training sortie near Barmer in Rajasthan.

An ALH Dhruv crashed on Thursday following a "hard landing" in Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a rare accident in January, a Russian-designed Sukhoi-30MKI jet and a French Mirage-2000 had a mid-air collision.

In October last year, a weapon system integrated version of an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) of the Indian Army crashed near Tuting in Arunachal Pradesh.

Another ALH-WSI had crashed into the massive Ranjit Sagar reservoir near Pathankot on August 3, 2021 in which two Army pilots were killed.

Between March 2017 to December 2021, 31 people lost their lives in accidents involving 15 military helicopters that included four ALH, four Cheetah, two ALH (WSI), three Mi-17V5, an Mi-17 and a Chetak, according to official details.

In December 2021, Gen Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff, his wife Madhulika and 11 other armed forces personnel died when an Mi-17VH helicopter crashed near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.
The Congress has accused the Election Commission of "bias" over its notice on the party's "corruption rate card" advertisements targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party government in Karnataka and said its leaders are held to a standard that seems reserved only for the Opposition.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses a public meeting in Bengaluru ahead of Karnataka assembly elections. Photograph: Shailendra Bhojak/PTI Photo

Despite the Congress bringing to the EC's notice on numerous occasions the "brazen and repeated" violations of electoral guidelines by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, the commission has not issued one notice or condemnation, the Congress said on Sunday.

In the Congress' "preliminary response", party leader and lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi also said the 24-hour window provided by the EC for responding to the notice was insufficient with the Karnataka assembly poll campaign drawing to a close.

The EC had on Saturday issued a notice to the Karnataka Congress over its "corruption rate card" advertisements published in newspapers in the run-up to the May 10 state polls and sought "empirical evidence" to prove its allegations by Sunday evening.

The notice was issued following a complaint lodged by the BJP.

The Congress had released a set of posters and advertisements listing "corruption rates" in the state between 2019 and 2023 while terming the BJP government a "trouble engine".

"...the actions of the Commission are prima facie violative of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, which provide a fundamental guarantee against arbitrariness in administrative action as well as against bias, official acts of mala fide, violations of natural justice and which provide the most vital guarantee of equality," the Congress said.

"...it is clear that the Indian National Congress is being subject to unfair and unequal treatment by the Commission. Leaders of the INC are held to a standard that seems to be reserved only for the opposition. They are asked to explain themselves for the slightest perceived offence and their advertisements are flagged for content that is far tamer than the ones allowed for the BJP," it said.

The EC can never allow itself to be seen as an organisation that turns a "Nelsonial blind eye" to egregious violations by the ruling party, it said.

"This proactive zeal seems to be reserved solely for the Opposition, as we have through numerous detailed, documented and numbered representations sought to bring to the Commission's attention the brazen, shocking, egregious, heinous and repeated violations of almost every single electoral guideline, by Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Amit Shah, Shri J P Nadda, Shri Adityanath as well as other BJP leaders," it said.

"Yet not one show cause notice has been issued for these deliberate violations. Forget pursuing criminal proceedings, not one condemnation or censure has been issued to name and shame these individuals by the Commission," it added.

The Congress said this might be the first time in history that the EC has summoned a national party to provide evidence in support of a political advertisement.

"The Election Commission, with its vast powers of superintendence, could have chosen to investigate the allegations, evidence of which is available in the public domain but instead it has chosen to go after the party that is shedding light on the rampant corruption plaguing the people of the state," it said.

It said BJP MLA Yatnal, who publicly spoke about the chief minister's post being "sold" for Rs 2,500 crore, has been renominated as a candidate by the BJP and several party legislators have been pointing out through public statements the issue of rampant corruption in the Basavaraj Bommai-led Karnataka government, the Congress said.

Even the Contractors Association of Karnataka, comprising 50,000 contractors, has publicly spoken about the "40 per cent commission being demanded by the Bommai government" and even named a number of BJP legislators, it said.

The opposition party, however, pointed out that its political advertisement under scrutiny has no mention of the BJP nor does it name any person or candidate belonging to the said party.

The Congress said further that the time provided by the EC for filing its response was "insufficient".

"... while we are submitting this preliminary response out of our sheer regard for the constitutional role of the ECI, we reserve both the right to be heard in person as well as the right to submit additional documents and pleadings as there are barely 24 hours left for the close of campaigning," it said.

"The Indian National Congress, being a responsible national political party, will also be pleased to collate the said evidence for you and present them provided that we are given reasonable time and an in-person hearing," it said.
Expelled All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader O Panneerselvam on Monday called on Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam chief TTV Dhinakaran and the leaders announced a working arrangement to take on both the Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu.

IMAGE: Former Tamil Nadu deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam greets as he arrives to attend the Budget Session of the state Legislative assembly, in Chennai, March 20, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

About six years after he severed ties with Dhinakaran, Panneerselvam joined hands with him and veteran leader Panruti S Ramachandran said a new arrangement has been finalised between Panneerselvam and Dhinakaran, resembling the alignment between the Communist Party of India and the Communist Party of India-Marxist.

The move is based on the wish of party workers, he said.

Dhinakaran is the nephew of Sasikala and the duo were eased out of the party in 2017 after OPS and Palaniswami, now general secretary of the AIADMK, merged their respective factions.

Ramachandran, an OPS loyalist who took part in the meeting, said the former chief minister would soon meet VK Sasikala, the confidante of former party supremo J Jayalalithaa.

Sasikala has also been meeting her supporters across the state to take on Palaniswami.

After the nearly 40-minute meeting at his posh Adyar residence in the city, Dhinakaran told reporters: "We want to defeat our betrayers (Palaniswami) and our enemies (DMK)."

All smiles, Panneerselvam and Dhinakaran shook hands, which signalled the coming together of key leaders who were expelled from the AIADMK. Panneerselvam and his supporters were ousted from the party last year and some related matters challenging it are before court.

Dhinakaran, who founded the AMMK in 2018, said there had never been any kind of enmity or inimical sentiments between him and OPS and they had been apart for some reasons and were now coming together.

Stating that he would soon meet 'Chinnamma' (as Sasikala is called by her supporters), Panneerselvam asserted that the arrangement was the first step towards realising the goal of bringing together "Amma's cadres".

To another question, he said court matters in connection with the expulsion from AIADMK was pending in court and a legal battle would be carried forward.

Dhinakaran said: "We are not joining hands based on any selfishness and our only goal is to place Puratchi Thalaivar's (M G Ramachandran, the founder of AIADMK) organisation on the hands of true cadres of Amma (late party matriarch Jayalalithaa)."

The party has to be reclaimed from those who "hijacked" it, the AMMK top leader said apparently hitting out at Palaniswami. He also slammed the ruling DMK as an "evil force". The arrangement is the wish of the party workers and it has now been formalised.

Responding to a query on acrimony between Dhinakaran and OPS, all the three leaders said only future goals were important and there is no need to dwell on the past.

On him meeting Chief Minister M K Stalin's son-in-law V Sabareesan days ago, OPS said it had absolutely nothing to do with politics and the meeting happened at the venue of a sporting event in full public glare. It was out of courtesy and decorum, he added.
Even as the row over the power disruption at President Droupadi Murmu's programme in Odisha's Baripada continues, the chief district medical officer (CDMO) of Mayurbhanj has suspended a pharmacist for taking photos with the President's helicopter, an official said on Monday.

IMAGE: President Droupadi Murmu felicitates Swarupa Chakravarty with a shawl during the 12th convocation of the Maharaja Sriram Bhanja Deo University, Baripada, May 6, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

CDMO Dr Rupabhanu Mishra suspended pharmacist Jashobanta Behera for clicking pictures with the President's chopper and posting them on Facebook, the official said.

Behera was deployed in a medical team of the President during her visit to Similipal National Park on May 5.

"I posted a few photos on my Facebook account only for the sake of memory and fun. I had no other intention of doing so. However, I took verbal permission from some air force personnel engaged to guard the helicopter. As such a great personality like the President Madam had come to the district and I was on duty at the helipad, I wanted to keep the photos as a memory," the pharmacist said.

He claimed that he has deleted the pictures from his Facebook account.

The incident had taken place on May 5 when the President had gone to Similipal National Park in the district on her second day of the tour.

The photographs were taken on mobile phones near the helicopter.

Meanwhile, the issue relating to power disruption at the President's programme at the Maharaja Sriramachandra Bhanja Deo University convocation has taken a political row with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party demanding an apology from the chief minister for keeping the first citizen of the country in darkness for about nine minutes while she was delivering the convocation address.

Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Tribal Affairs Bisheswar Tudu has demanded the immediate dismissal of Mayurbhanj district collector and university vice-chancellor over the matter.

The Mayurbhanj district unit of the BJP has also slammed the state government over power disruption at the President's programme. The opposition party has also demanded a high level inquiry into the matter. The BJP also suspect sabotage to insult the President.

In a related development, Bhanja Sena, a local outfit in Mayurbhanj district said it would not hesitate to organise a bandh if actions were not taken against the persons responsible for power disruption at the President's meeting.
In a setback to jailed Bihar Youtuber Manish Kashyap, the Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain his plea challenging invocation of the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against him for allegedly circulating fake videos of migrant labourers being attacked in Tamil Nadu.

IMAGE: Arrested Youtuber Manish Kashyap. Photograph: ANI Photo

"You have a stable state, the state of Tamil Nadu. Can you circulate anything and create disquiet in the state? We cannot be lending our ears to all this, a bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said.

The bench, also comprising justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala, however, granted Kashyap the liberty to challenge the invocation of the NSA at an appropriate judicial forum preferably in the high court.

It also rejected the plea for clubbing all 19 FIRs against him and their transfer to Bihar.

We are not inclined to entertain the plea, the bench said while rejecting the vehement submissions of senior advocate Maninder Singh, appearing for Kashyap who is presently lodged in Madurai jail of Tamil Nadu.

Refusing to quash Kashyap's detention under the NSA, the bench said it cannot be hearing this kind of petition.

The counsel for Kashyap said the accused had made the alleged videos for his Youtube channel based on media reports published in certain newspapers.

"If this boy has to be in jail, all journalists have to be in jail then," the lawyer argued, adding that the FIRs be clubbed and transferred to Bihar where the first complaint was lodged by the police.

The lawyer, appearing for Bihar, referred to the details of the FIRs lodged against Kashyap in the state and opposed the plea.

He said Kashyap has been a habitual offender and has cases for extortion and attempt to murder pending against him.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal and lawyer Amit Anand Tiwari, representing Tamil Nadu, said the accused can move the Madras high court for clubbing of the FIRs.

He is not a journalist and was a politician who has contested the elections in Bihar, Sibal said.

The top court did not agree to the submissions of Kashyap's lawyer that the invocation of NSA has been quashed in several cases.

Kashyap was arrested in Bihar after he surrendered at the Jagdishpur police station on March 18 and was later brought to Tamil Nadu where NSA was invoked against him in April.

In its reply to the plea of Kashyap, the Tamil Nadu government had said multiple FIRs that have been registered in the state against Kashyap are not politically motivated but because he disturbed "public order and national integrity" by circulating fake videos of migrant labourers being attacked in the southern state.

In an affidavit, the state government had opposed Kashyap's plea to club the FIRs lodged against him, saying he cannot seek the shelter of the umbrella of constitutional rights.

The state government had claimed Kashyap attempted to instigate violence between Bihari migrant labourers and the people of Tamil Nadu through false and unverified videos.

"The registration of multiple FIRs was not done with any political intention, nor to suppress the constitutional rights of the accused, but with the intention to stop the spread of misinformation and to ensure that the person guilty of such offences does not escape from the clutches of law.

"Freedom of speech and expression is not absolute but should be exercised with caution and responsibility. By disturbing public order and national integrity, the accused cannot seek shelter under the umbrella of constitutional rights," the Tamil Nadu government had said in the affidavit.

It said the contention that there was a complete abuse of the process of law by registering multiple FIRs is not sustainable.

The due process of law was followed by the police in all the FIRs registered in Tamil Nadu, it had said, claiming Kashyap disturbed public peace and tranquillity and created a volatile law and order situation in the state.

A great amount of fear and panic was created among the families of migrant labourers, it had said.

Earlier, the top court had granted time to the Tamil Nadu government, represented by lawyer Amit Anand Tiwari, to respond to the amended plea of Kashyap against whom the NSA was invoked for allegedly circulating the videos.

The arrested Youtuber faces several FIRs and out of them, three have been lodged in Bihar.

The top court had on April 11 issued notice to the Centre, the Tamil Nadu and Bihar governments on Kashyap's plea seeking clubbing of the FIRs lodged against him and their transfer to his native state.

The bench had on April 21 directed the state government not to shift Kashyap from the Madurai Central Prison.

Kashyap had on April 5 appeared before the Madurai district court which ordered that he be remanded in judicial custody for 15 days, following which he was sent to the Madurai central prison.

In his plea before the apex court, Kashyap sought clubbing of all the FIRs registered against him in Tamil Nadu with those lodged in Bihar.

He also said the issue of alleged violence in Tamil Nadu against migrant labourers from Bihar was widely reported in the media, and the petitioner, since March 1, was raising his voice against it by making videos on social media platforms and through content on Twitter.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Sunday claimed he survived the 2020-revolt by some Congress MLAs because Bharatiya Janata Party leaders Vasundhara Raje and Kailash Meghwal refused to support a conspiracy to topple an elected government through money power.

IMAGE: Ashok Gehlot said he as the state party chief, did not support the toppling of the BJP government led by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as it was unfair. Photograph: @ashokgehlot51/Twitter

Raje, a former chief minister of Rajasthan, however, said that "Gehlot's 'praises' is a big conspiracy" against her and the Congress leader was speaking lies due to rebellion in his party.

Gehlot also took potshots at the rebel Congress MLAs, saying they should return the money they had taken from the BJP so that they can carry out their duty without any pressure.

His then deputy Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs had revolted against his leadership in July 2020. The month-long crisis ended after the intervention of the party high command. Pilot was then removed as the deputy chief minister and state Congress president.

Addressing a programme in Dholpur, Gehlot said he as the state party chief, did not support the toppling of the BJP government led by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as it was unfair, in the same manner, Raje and Meghwal said that there is no tradition in Rajasthan to topple an elected government.

Meghwal is a former speaker of the state assembly and is currently an MLA.

"If I wanted, Bhairon Singh ji's government could have been toppled. I said this was unethical work. The man who is ill, he is getting treatment in America, his condition was very critical and leaders of his party were conspiring to topple his government behind him," Gehlot said.

He continued, "Kailash Meghwal and Vasundhara Raje also said the same thing. They said that we have never had a tradition to bring down elected governments on money power... what wrong did he do?"

Gehlot also praised MLA Shobharani Kushwah who had cross-voted in favour of the Congress candidate in the Rajya Sabha election last year.

Dholpur MLA Kushwah was subsequently suspended by the BJP for cross-voting.

She was a bold lady, the chief minister said and added that "when Shobharani supported us, it shocked BJP leaders".

Gehlot claimed that she listened to Raje and Meghwal and her conscience said that she should not support "those people".

"That's why our government was saved. I can never forget this incident in my life, which had happened with me," he said.

Terming Gehlot's "praises" for her as a big conspiracy, Raje in a statement on Sunday night said he "has made such outrageous and untrue allegations because of the rebellion happening in his own party and diminishing mass base".

The BJP leader said that no one can insult her as much as Gehlot did in his life. To avoid a historic defeat in the 2023 assembly elections, he is creating such fabricated stories, which is unfortunate and not going to be successful, Raje said.

Gehlot and Raje have often been accused by their detractors in their own parties of "going soft" on each other, especially when it came to allegations of corruption.

The two leaders have denied any such understanding. A few days ago, Raje had rejected allegations of collusion with Gehlot as lie, saying milk and lemon juice never mix.

Gehlot also alleged that Union Ministers Amit Shah, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Dharmendra Pradhan had conspired together to topple his government.

"They distributed money in Rajasthan and they are not taking the money back now. I am surprised why they are not demanding the money back from them (the Congress MLAs who had revolted)," he claimed.

"I have even told the MLAs that whatever money they have taken, Rs 10 crore or Rs 20 crore, if you have spent anything, I will give that part or I will get it from AICC (All India Congress Committee)," he said.

Gehlot alleged that if the MLAs did not return the money, they will always be under pressure from Shah. "He is the Union home minister, he will intimidate...in Maharashtra he divided Shiv Sena," he alleged.

In her statement, Raje also said giving and accepting bribes are crimes and if Congress MLAs have taken money, then FIR should be lodged. Gehlot has accused Home Minister Shah but Shah's honesty and integrity is well known, she said.

In his address, Gehlot said that he was made the chief minister by the party for a third time and it was his duty to take all along and forget past happenings and ensure the return of the party to power in the assembly elections, slated for later this year.

The Congress leader was addressing the programme in the home turf Raje.

Gehlot also praised Congress MLAs Rohit Bohra, Chetan Dudi and Danish Abrar for alerting him about the revolt against his government in 2020.

He said that these three MLAs, BSP-turned-Congress MLAs and independent MLAs who had supported him and saved his government during the political crisis in 2020 deserved to be made ministers in his government but he could not do so due to political reasons and was sad about it.
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Vasundhara Raje countered Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's claim that she and two other Bharatiya Janata Party leaders had helped save his government in 2020 during the revolt of Sachin Pilot.

IMAGE: Gehlot and Raje have often been accused by their detractors in their own parties of "going soft" on each other, especially when it came to allegations of corruption. Photograph: ANI Photo

Raje, a former chief minister of Rajasthan, said that "Gehlot's 'praises' is a big conspiracy" against her and the Congress leader was speaking lies due to rebellion in his party.

Addressing a programme in Dholpur, Gehlot said he as the state party chief, did not support the toppling of the BJP government led by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as it was unfair, in the same manner, Raje and Meghwal said that there is no tradition in Rajasthan to topple an elected government.

Meghwal is a former speaker of the state assembly and is currently an MLA.

"If I wanted, Bhairon Singh ji's government could have been toppled. I said this was unethical work. The man who is ill, he is getting treatment in America, his condition was very critical and leaders of his party were conspiring to topple his government behind him," Gehlot said.

He continued, "Kailash Meghwal and Vasundhara Raje also said the same thing. They said that we have never had a tradition to bring down elected governments on money power... what wrong did he do?"

Terming Gehlot's "praises" for her as a big conspiracy, Raje in a statement on Sunday night said he "has made such outrageous and untrue allegations because of the rebellion happening in his own party and diminishing mass base".

The BJP leader said that no one can insult her as much as Gehlot did in his life. To avoid a historic defeat in the 2023 assembly elections, he is creating such fabricated stories, which is unfortunate and not going to be successful, Raje said.

Gehlot and Raje have often been accused by their detractors in their own parties of "going soft" on each other, especially when it came to allegations of corruption.

The two leaders have denied any such understanding. A few days ago, Raje had rejected allegations of collusion with Gehlot as lie, saying milk and lemon juice never mix.
IMAGE: Indian Navy personnel hold an infant as stranded Indians board INS Teg at Port Sudan, April 27, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Only rarely do conflicts in faraway countries become issues in elections.

But the campaign to the Karnataka assembly election saw a rapid rhetoric escalation culminating in Prime Minister Narendra D Modi personally overseeing the operations to extract Indians from war-hit Sudan.

The Congress in Karnataka now claims that but for its intervention, Indians in Sudan would have been left to fend for themselves.

But history tells us that a well-oiled machinery is in place that will always respond, no matter the complexion of the government in power.

The current controversy started with a tweet last month from Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah who said 31 people from Karnataka's Hakki Pikki tribe had been stranded in Sudan without food and the government was yet to initiate action to get them back.

Siddaramaiah claimed one Indian had already died among 60 other foreign nationals. 'I urge the government to intervene urgently,' he said.

This prompted an immediate outcry from supporters of the Congress as well as the government, including those who had never heard of the Hakki Pikki.

But the sharpest riposte came from Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar. 'Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan,' the EAM tweeted.

Never one to let anyone else have the last word, Siddaramaiah shot back: 'Since you are External Affairs Minister, Dr Jaishankar, I have appealed to you for help. If you are busy getting appalled, please point us to the person who can help us bring our people back.'

Within hours, the prime minister had taken charge.

He called for a meeting and, taking advantage of a short ceasefire, the government announced Operation Kaveri, like Operation Ganga (to get Indians out of Ukraine after it was attacked by Russia) and Operation Devi Shakti (to get Indians out of Afghanistan) previously.

It is possible that if Siddaramaiah had not been fielded from the Kolar assembly constituency, which has a small number of Hakki Pikki voters (11,000 at best, according to local media), the government would have carried on doing its work of protecting the interests of Indians in war-torn zones quietly: as it has done in the past.

But this -- and past -- government interventions have provided a new dimension to India's foreign policy responsibilities.

Hakki Pikkis (Hakki in Kannada means 'bird' and Pikki means 'catchers') are a semi-nomadic tribe, traditionally of bird catchers and hunters, from Karnataka.

Their knowledge of the forest and traditional medicine is extensive and is prized by the local Sudanese community.

Like many other groups of Indians, they went to Sudan in search of work and were caught in a civil war, following a clash between two sets of militias.

Ambassadors who have served in war-torn countries say India is probably one of the few countries in the world that has successfully carried out very large-scale evacuations.

"In the past four decades, India has launched rescue and humanitarian efforts in Iraq, Lebanon, Yemen, Libya, and several other African countries," says Anil Trigunayat, former ambassador to Libya and Jordan.

"India may not have direct influence over the two generals (in Sudan), but it has significant economic interests and nearly 3,000 Indian Diaspora which is stuck in this war of attrition and has always stood with the Sudanese people through its humanitarian and capacity-building assistance," he says.

"India has tremendous expertise in evacuations from conflict zones and should be able to bring all Indians safely," Ambassador Trigunayat adds.

Op Kaveri is only one on a long list of rescue missions the Indian government has launched.

The most massive was during the Gulf War over three decades ago.

In 1990, when Iraq attacked Kuwait, the Indian government brought back over 100,000 citizens in a little over two months.

What is more, it was not a strong, majority government in power at the time but a rickety coalition comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party, Janata Dal, and the Left, presided over by V P Singh, tip-toeing through the minefield of oil politics.

Iraq's invasion of Kuwait began on August 2, 1990, and around 170,000 Indians were in the region at the time.

Around three weeks later, India's external affairs minister at the time, Inder Kumar Gujral, visited Iraq and met Saddam Hussein to ensure the safe return of Indian citizens.

The operation started with using military transport aircraft, but had to later switch to Air India because of difficulties in using military aircraft in the operation.

As the airspace had closed, Indians were taken to Amman in neighbouring Jordan via buses.

Over 63 days, 488 Air India flights brought back over 100,000 Indians from the war-torn region.

Says K P Fabian, who was joint secretary (Gulf), at the time: "The important thing was that thanks to the excellent rapport between the external affairs ministry and the civil aviation ministry, we did not waste time in routine writing of notes," says Fabian.

Fabian and other diplomats say Indians are now working all over the world and will need support if hostilities break out.

Says Constantino Xavier, fellow in foreign policy and security studies, Centre for Social and Economic Progress: "New Delhi will not be able to continue relying on heroic and ad hoc efforts. Given that the Diaspora is expanding and becoming more mobile and assertive, evacuation operations are likely to become more frequent, complex, and distant, which poses challenges to capacity and coordination."
'Mr Badal wanted to talk to a member of the Gandhi family to bring about some sort of rapprochement between the Akalis and the Congress which were the two major parties at that time.'

IMAGE: Former Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal (holding the sword). Photograph: PTI Photo

"We made all the arrangements for the secret meeting between Rajiv Gandhi and Badal. Rajiv Gandhi would be incognito and before anybody realised anything, Mr Badal would be taken back to his room in the jail.

"My wife even cooked some continental food, but just a day before the meeting I got a call that Rajiv couldn't come.

"Apparently Mrs Gandhi had been advised by her advisors not to negotiate. I went back to Mr Badal and told him that Rajiv's visit has been cancelled and the Congress was ready to send Swaran Singh, but this was not acceptable to him.

"His prophetic words were that if we do not come to some settlement, then the coward sitting in the Golden Temple will gain ascendancy and we all know what happened after that," recalls former IAS officer Ravi Sawhney, who served in Punjab during the first two tenures of Parkash Singh Badal's chief ministership.

"He was chief minister of Punjab, but always remained modest and accessible; humility was his trademark," Mr Sawhney tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih.

IMAGE: Then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee with Parkash Singh Badal at an election rally in Ludhiana, May 8, 2004.

The Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiromani Akali Dal were then in an electoral alliance; the SAD pulled out of the alliance after the farmers' agitation in 2020. Photograph: Munish Sharma/Reuters

Soon after I came to Punjab as a young IAS officer, Mr Parkash Singh Badal took over as chief minister in 1970.

Although it was a sort of short lived government, he did emerge as a very popular leader.

He emerged from the grassroots and in his habits and demeanour, remained very much the same person. People could identify themselves with him and he could identify with the problems of the farmers.

He transitioned seamlessly from a farmer to sarpanch to MLA and to chief minister and took it in his national stride without changing his demeanour or his attitude.

He went on to become chief minister of Punjab five times and remained modest and accessible; humility was his trademark.

Since he had dealt with government bureaucracy at the grassroot level, it was admirable that even when he was chief minister, his demeanour towards the bureaucracy was one of respect. It was never overbearing. He listened to the bureaucracy and was willing to learn from it.

He once made the remark that he was first a farmer and then chief minister. Much of his focus was on helping the farmers and improving their lives.

IMAGE: Then Gujarat chief minister N D Modi, third from right, and then Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal, second from right, at an election rally in Bathinda, April 25, 2014. Photograph: Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

In his second term as chief minister in 1977, he came with a certain vision for Punjab. He was influenced by German economist E F Schumacher whose slogan 'Small is Beautiful' inspired him. He wanted to initiate a state-wide rural development programme.

I was then in the Punjab Industrial Development Corporation. One day the chief secretary called me and told me that the chief minister wanted to initiate an integrated rural driven programme and somebody had to conceptualise it.

The CM had already sounded Prime Minister Morarji Desai who had agreed in principle to inaugurate the programme.

I was asked to take responsibility to develop the first integrated rural development programme for Punjab and with the help of some experts from the Punjab Agriculture University, I conceptualised the first integrated rural development programme in Punjab in a few weeks.

I had opportunity to interact with Chief Minister Badal and found that one could be very relaxed while talking to him. He was willing to listen.

We selected clusters of five villages. One village became the focal point in each cluster which had natural connectivity to the other villages. At that focal point, we developed all facilities required by the farmer -- pre and post harvesting, finance, availability of inputs etc.

The selection of focal points became very crucial, but I must say, to some regret, that these focal point villages became a kind of handout by ministers which distorted the whole programme.

I protested to the development minister and there was a period when I had to keep returning files to the minister and refused to implement those orders.

What was a very good programme for Punjab, unfortunately, got somewhat derailed in its implementation.

IMAGE: Parkash Singh Badal addresses a rally to mark 100 years of the Shiromani Akali Dal's foundation in Moga, December 14, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo

My subsequent interaction with Mr Badal, more importantly, was when he was in the Opposition and leading the Akali agitation for implementation of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution in the early 1980s.

I was then deputy commissioner of Ludhiana which became the epicentre for much of the agitation. Akali leaders courted arrest in Ludhiana in the jail bharo movement and were in my custody.

We had to house them in a temporary jail in an under-construction government colony. We improvised, created the necessary security arrangements and housed them.

Since Mr Badal was a former chief minister, I occasionally visited him in this so-called jail. We talked generally about issues and matters over a cup of tea.

I could see that he was worried that that if the agitation continued, he could lose credibility as the representative of the moderate leadership. He was concerned that the agitation might be hijacked by the more militant followers of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale.

IMAGE: Parkash Singh Badal, left, along with his son and SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal, second from left, daughter-in-law and MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and his grand-daughter Harkirat Kaur Badal, right, after casting their vote in the assembly election, February 20, 2022. Photograph: ANI Photo

In one conversation, he asked me if I had a way to convey a message to the Gandhi family. Having known Rajiv Gandhi, prior to entering politics, and a couple of other close friends, I said, I could try.

Mr Badal wanted to talk to a member of the Gandhi family to bring about some sort of rapprochement between the Akalis and the Congress which were the two major parties at that time.

He felt that just because the Akalis were in jail it should not be thought that they had been vanquished.

Mr Badal was a secular, moderate, person. He was never shy of acknowledging that the Sikhs and Hindus together made up Punjab. He had a secular outlook towards all religions.

I did convey this message and word came that Rajiv Gandhi would come to meet him. He was then general secretary in the (Congress) party.

Mr Badal wanted this meeting to remain confidential. We made all the arrangements for the secret meeting which would take place at my residence.

Rajiv Gandhi would be incognito and before anybody realised anything Mr Badal would be taken back to his room in the jail.

My wife even cooked some continental food for Rajiv, but just a day before the meeting I got a call from Arun Singh (then one of Rajiv Gandhi's closest advisors; later, minister of state for defence) saying that Rajiv couldn't come and [then defence minister Sardar] Swaran Singh would meet Badal instead because Rajiv had to go to the Farnborough air show in England.

I told him that Badal had made it clear that he would only speak to a member of the Gandhi family.

To me it seemed difficult to understand because it was an opportunity to bring about stability and peace in Punjab.

Apparently Mrs Gandhi had been advised by her advisors not to negotiate. I went back to Mr Badal and told him that Rajiv's visit has been cancelled and the Congress was ready to send Swaran Singh, but this was not acceptable to him.

His prophetic words were that if we do not come to some settlement, then the coward sitting in the Golden Temple will gain ascendancy and we all know what happened after that.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Modi pays his respects to Parkash Singh Badal in Chandigarh, April 26, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo

The other remarkable measure that he undertook were the Sangat darshans that he would conduct where he would take the concerned officers and sort out people's issues on the spot. This made him even more popular with the people. He was extremely accessible.

Even when there was opposition from the Panthic group, he was able to overcome it.

I left Punjab and we never met again, but I was struck by his earnestness for rural development. He had a vision and was very keen to implement it.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
NEW BROCKTON  A Boston, Mass., man is in Coffee County Jail following his arrest Sunday on multiple charges of possession of hallucinatory drugs at an event billed as Sol Fest Music and Arts Festival at Bama Slam in New Brockton.

Brent Harrilson, 31, is charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and one count of possession of a controlled substance, Coffee County Sheriff Scott Byrd said Monday morning.

Byrd said that his deputies on routine patrol of the 1,600-acre venue located on County Road 156 in New Brockton at the request of the owner when they apprehended Harrilson with a quantity of hallucinatory drugs to include LSD, mushrooms and cocaine.

This guy had a lot of drugs and he had them all broken out to sell, so my guys put him in the county jail where he deserved to go, Byrd said. There were not many locals in attendance; it was mostly folks from out of town.

It was a busy weekend, but my guys did a great job, Byrd said.

Step into an illuminating world with premier production. Uplift your spirit with morning healing workshops like yoga, ecstatic dance, and meditation, reads the Sol Fest Music and Arts Festival description on the Bama Slam website. Witness art come to life in a mind-altering wonderland with flow performers, atmospheric lighting, immersive live and digital art, and interactive installations.
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Holly Johnson has been dancing, teaching and choreographing at Brattleboro School of Dance since 1984, and has artistically directed shows there for the past several years.
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The Rockingham Select Board was disappointed with the lack of participation and turnout at the annual Town Meeting, held at Bellows Falls Opera House in March.
Photographer / Multimedia Editor

Has been working as a photojournalist since 2007, before moving into newspapers, he worked with an NGO called Project HOPE. He then went to work for the Press and Sun-Bulletin in New York, and then in New England working for the Brattleboro Reformer.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers will hand down the budget on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, which is the usual convention for the Budget to be on the second Tuesday of May.

Australias Federal Budget for 2023 is expected to be a sensible and responsible one that addresses various issues ranging from welfare to Tax, Super, and cybersecurity and will provide the targeted cost of living relief without making a bad situation worse.

Here is a breakdown of some key areas that have been revealed so far:

Taxes

The government has proposed a series of tax reforms to increase revenue from various sources such as petroleum resource rent, tobacco, and superannuation balances.

Firstly it announced its intention to increase the revenue from the petroleum resource rent tax by $2.4 billion over the next four years. In doing so, they have also pledged to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in establishing a minimum tax rate of 15 per cent and placing limits on debt-related deductions.

Furthermore, the government has proposed a new taxation policy regarding superannuation balances. Starting from 1 July 2025, superannuation balances exceeding $3 million will be subjected to a tax rate of 30 per cent for future earnings. These measures aim to increase government revenue and improve the countrys overall economic stability.

NDIS

The NDIS will have a cap on growth at 8 per cent a year, and there will be a crackdown on providers price-gouging products and services for people with disabilities.

Energy transition

In the first year, a net zero authority will be established, which will cost $23 million. The funding for this authority will come from the Powering the Regions Fund, which is administered by ARENA and amounts to $400 million.

Furthermore, small and medium-sized businesses with an annual turnover of less than $50 million will soon have access to the Small Business Energy Incentive. This incentive, which was announced prior to this years Federal Budget, will provide a 20 per cent tax deduction bonus for spending that supports the electrification and more efficient use of energy, up to a total expenditure of $100,000, with a maximum bonus tax deduction of $20,000 per business.

Education and training

The government is prepared to invest an additional $3.7bn for a five-year national skills agreement, with $400m to support another 300,000 TAFE, vocational education, and training fee-free places.

Superannuation tweaks

Payday superannuation will peg superannuation guarantee payments to an employees payday (rather than on a quarterly basis as currently required). A new tax rate of 30 per cent will be installed on superannuation balances over $3 million.

EV Infrastructure

The NRMA has been allocated $39.3 million to construct 117 EV fast chargers throughout the country. This initiative aims to increase the confidence of current and prospective EV drivers by creating a national network of chargers. Moreover, each charging site will have a minimum charging rate of 75kW, even if four vehicles are charging at the same time.

ARENA plans to invest over $130 million in the Driving The Nation Fund to encourage the adoption of EVs and reduce emissions from road transport. This fund will support projects that enhance access to advanced EV charging infrastructure, resulting in innovative charging solutions for all Australians, including those who reside in apartments and remote or regional areas.

Cost of living

A $14.6bn cost of living package over four years includes a $1.5 billion electricity package that will provide up to $500 in power bill relief to more than five million households and one million businesses.

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Smoked beers have long been a favorite of many brewers, but until recently, actually brewing them in the U.S. wasnt very practical.

For most of my brewing career, nearly 17 years now, our friends in the beer industry have always joked that making smoked beers is career suicide, says Matt Westfall, owner and brewer at Counter Weight Brewing Co. in Cheshire. It used to be that you couldnt give them away, but recently there has been revived interest in classic European styles, with smoked beers being a part of that.

Across Connecticut and beyond, breweries have started offering smoked helles lagers or other similar types of beers, which are made from smoked malts that give the finished beer a subtle smoky flavor that adds depth and character.

Helles means pale or bright in German, and helles lagers are pale-yellow beers with a flavor that is all about balance. A classic example of the style is the German-brewed Schlenkerla Helles, which is available at liquor stores in Connecticut and has been an inspiration to many brewers in the state.

Our smoked helles is completely and unapologetically inspired by Schlenkerla Helles, says Zack Adams, owner and brewer at Fox Farm Brewery in Salem. Inspired by visits to that brewery in Bavaria, Adams released The Cabin Smoked Helles in 2018.

The key to the style and what makes it click is the balance between the inherent malt sweetness you find in a helles and the subtle drying effect the smoked malt lends, Adams says. The two work beautifully, and its why helles is particularly well-suited, compared to other pale lagers, such as pilsner, for introducing that smoke flourish. For us, we lean into that a bit and seek a little extra texture and sweetness to manage that balance. Keeping the bitterness and hop character in check is important as well  those qualities can easily derail the beer if overdone.

The Cabin serves as a gateway beer to other smoked offerings Fox Farm brews, and the brewery is working with Windsors Thrall Family Malt to make the first batch of beer brewed with Connecticut-grown grain and smoked malts.

Nod Hill Brewing Co.s Smoked Sunrunner helles lager was also inspired by Schlenkerla Helles. We focus on getting the smoke level so that it complements the rest of the beer, says Kyle Acenowr, the Ridgefield brewerys head brewer and founding partner. We want to be able to drink multiple beers without fatiguing the palate with smoke flavor. Additionally, were looking for harmony amongst the body, bitterness and residual sugar. Getting these aspects right is essential to brewing highly drinkable lager.

BEET&BLOSSOM

David Kaye, Nod Hills general manager and a founding partner of the brewery, says the styles increasing popularity is part of renewed interest in lagers overall, though Connecticut drinkers often need an introduction to smoked helles lagers. Its still a little bit more of a niche order in our taproom, but our servers always let guests know its actually very approachable and pleasantly drinkable, he says. The smoke is subtle and complementary; its not a one-note beer.

At Counter Weight, Westfall and other brewers have been traveling annually to Germany to learn more about traditional Bavarian brewing techniques. In those travels, weve visited with smoked beer producers and tried to integrate some of their generous advice into our practices here at Counter Weight, he says. More recently, weve been fermenting our smoked beers in open-top fermenters, like they do in many of the breweries weve visited in Germany.

The brewerys Smoked Ein helles is golden in color. Its characterized by a clean-lager fermentation profile featuring a classic rounded German maltiness alongside a delicate noble hop presence with a softly interwoven smoky aroma and flavor, Westfall says. We want to achieve a very easy-to-drink beer with a classic Bamberg-like smoky note that is well-integrated, he adds, referring to the Bavarian town.

The style may have a way to go to catch up to IPAs in popularity, but people in Connecticut are discovering it sip by sip. Our team loves these beers and I think their enthusiasm is largely infectious to our guests, Westfall says. Once people try them they usually end up ordering a second. Hopefully this continues because we love brewing and serving them.
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP)  A man was killed and two women were wounded in a shooting early Sunday at a Miami Beach nightclub, police said.

Authorities began receiving reports of shots being fired just before 4 a.m. at the address for the Gala nightclub in the city's South Beach area, Miami Beach police said in a news release.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump should be held accountable for sexually attacking an advice columnist in 1996 because even a former president is not above the law, a lawyer for the columnist told a jury Monday in closing arguments in the lawsuit that accuses Trump of rape.

A lawyer for Trump responded by calling the accuser's account unbelievable and "outrageous."

Once the final arguments were complete, the judge sent the jury home with instructions to return Tuesday to hear about an hour of instructions before beginning deliberations. Jurors will be asked to decide whether Trump committed battery and defamed writer E. Jean Carroll and whether damages should be awarded.

In recapping Carroll's case, attorney Roberta Kaplan showed jurors video clips of Trump from his October deposition and replayed the Access Hollywood video from 2005 in which Trump said into a hot mic that celebrities can grab women's genitals without asking.

Kaplan recalled Trump's comment that stars like him can get away with sexually assaulting women.

Thats who Donald Trump is. That is how he thinks. And thats what he does, Kaplan said. He thinks he can get away with it here.

Kaplan used Trump's words to support Carroll's claims that Trump raped her in early spring 1996 in the dressing room of Bergdorf Goodman, a luxury department store in Manhattan across the street from Trump Tower.

Trump's attorney, Joe Tacopina, attacked the allegations as absurd, saying they were an affront to justice and minimized real rape victims.

He agreed with Kaplan that no one is above the law, but he warned that no one's below it either.

Tacopina told jurors they won't have to let her profit to the tune of millions of dollars because they will see that it is impossible to believe the "unbelievable."

This is an absolutely outrageous case, he said, arguing that Carroll sued to raise her status and for political reasons.

He said even Carroll had testified that it was an astonishing coincidence that a Law and Order offshoot aired an episode in 2012 in which a woman is raped in the dressing room of a Bergdorf Goodman.

What is the likelihood of that? Tacopina asked. One in 20 billion? One in 10 billion?

Tacopina said the claims were too absurd to call his client as a witness, noting that Carroll expected jurors to believe Trump would risk everything to attack a woman in a busy department store even though she couldn't remember exactly when the assault happened.

What could I have asked Donald Trump? Where were you on some unknown date, 27 or 28 years ago? he said.

In a rebuttal argument, Carroll attorney Mike Ferrara mocked Trump's decision to skip the trial, saying jurors could use his absence to conclude that Trump committed the attack because Trump never looked you in the eye and denied it.

Kaplan told jurors that it wasn't a he said, she said case but rather one in which jurors should weigh what 11 witnesses, including Carroll, said versus what they heard from Trump in his video deposition.

He didn't even bother to show up here in person, Kaplan said, referring to Trump's absence from the proceedings in federal court. She told jurors that much of what he said in his deposition and in public statements actually supports our side of the case.

In a very real sense, Donald Trump is a witness against himself, she said. He knows what he did. He knows that he sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll.

Kaplan recounted the testimony of two women who say they too were attacked sexually by Trump.

Jessica Leeds, 81, said he grabbed her chest and ran his hand up her skirt on a 1979 airline flight. Natasha Stoynoff said he forcibly kissed her at his Florida mansion in 2005 as she worked on a story about his marriage for People magazine.

Trump has insisted in public statements and in the deposition that Carroll made up the claims to boost sales of a 2019 memoir. He has called Carroll mentally sick" and a disgrace.

Carroll, 79, who is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, testified for more than two days. Kaplan praised her testimony as credible.

It was consistent, and it was powerful, the lawyer said.

She contrasted that testimony with Trump's deposition, noting that a man who had derided Carroll as not his type was shown a photograph of Carroll from over three decades ago and twice misidentified her as his second wife, Marla Maples.

Carroll, a former cheerleader and Miss Indiana, was exactly Mr. Trumps type, Kaplan said. She is smart. She is funny. She is beautiful. And, most of all, she is courageous.

Carroll said she was leaving the Bergdorf Goodman store through a revolving door in spring 1996 when Trump was entering the store and stopped her to help him shop for a gift for a woman.

Carroll, a former Saturday Night Live writer, said they took escalators to the store's desolate sixth floor, where they teased each other about trying on a piece of see-through lingerie.

She said she entered a dressing room with Trump before the flirting turned violent, with Trump slamming her against a wall, pulling down her tights and raping her. She said she kneed him after an encounter that lasted several minutes and fled the store.

Carroll blames the encounter in part for never having another intimate relationship in her life.

Trump's public comments are the basis of Carrolls defamation claim. Kaplan labeled the comments as lies and said they ruined her client's reputation and forced an end to her 27-year employment as an Elle magazine advance columnist.

Kaplan urged jurors to find in favor of my brave client, E. Jean Carroll, but she put no number on the damages being sought.

Consider the evidence and pick a number you think is right, she said. This lawsuit is not about the money. This lawsuit is about getting her name back.
Border Security Forces have recovered a consignment of narcotics dropped by a Pakistani drone near the Amritsar border.

According to details accessed by Republic TV, the incident happened on Sunday night around 10:00 pm, BSF troops, which were stationed in dense reigon on the outskirts of Amritsar's village, heard a loud sound of something soild dropping on the ground in the nearby farming field.

Soon, the security officials at the border cordoned off the area, and all the concerned agencies were informed and alerted about the incident.

BSF recovers narcotics consignment dropped by Pakistani drone near Amritsar border

(Image credit: Republic)

During the search operation, the BSF troops recovered a bag from the farming field, which consisted of four packets of suspected heroin weighing approximately 1.590 kg. Also, an iron ring and a small torch were found attached to the bag.

Further investigation into the matter is underway, and so far there has been no official statement from authorities.

The incident indicates that smugglers from Pakistan were trying to smuggle contraband using drones; however, their attempt was foiled by the Border Security Forces.

BSF recovers 8kg heroin dropped by Pakistani drone

Earlier, in a similar incident, the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered 8kg of heroin dropped by a drone that entered into Indian territory from Pakistan on the outskirts of Kakkar village in Amritsar district. The incident happened last month.

Security forces seized heroin after conducting a wide-scale search operation on the basis of suspicion of a drone intrusion from across the border.
Nominations are now open for the 2023 Premiers NSW Export Awards, which aim to recognise and honour exporters outstanding success and resilience throughout the state.

In its 61st year, the event seeks to acknowledge businesses across 13 national categories and four NSW categories. The program is delivered in partnership with the Export Council of Australia (ECA), a leading organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting Australian businesses in global markets.

Businesses that emerge winners in the 13 national categories will automatically advance as national finalists in the Australian Export Awards, allowing them to compete with other exceptional businesses nationwide and gain national recognition.

To participate in the program, nominations must be submitted by 14 June 2023. The Awards ceremony is set to take place on 6 October 2023, where successful NSW exporters will be celebrated, alongside commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and trade between Australia and Vietnam.

Investment NSW CEO Katie Knight said exporters continue to play a vital role in the success of NSW, contributing $120 billion to the states economy last year, up from $82 billion in 2021.

Growing NSWs exports will guarantee our future economic sustainability because businesses that export are more productive, create more jobs, and pay higher wages, Ms Knight said.

Everyone across the state benefits from the jobs and business opportunities generated by trade, so its important we celebrate our strengths in industry, our regions and our people. I strongly encourage all eligible NSW exporters to apply.

NSW is truly blessed with world-class growers, producers, innovators and creators, and the Premiers NSW Export Awards is an important program that recognises their collective brilliance, Ms Tipping said.

Through the Awards, we will celebrate exporters who, through hard work and resilience, faced the challenges of global markets whilst inspiring others to grow their own businesses. They are taking NSW innovation on to the world stage, supporting jobs and economic growth for all.

For more information or to nominate your business, please visit the 2023 Premiers NSW Export Awards website: https://www.exportawards.gov.au/

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Odisha is experiencing hot and sultry weather, which is likely to continue for four more days, the Met office said on Monday.

IMD Director General Mrutunjay Mohapatra said the possible cyclone forming in the Bay of Bengal will not have any direct impact on Odisha or any other state on the east coast as the system is likely to move towards the Bangladesh-Myanmar coast.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Satyabrata Sahu said in a Twitter post, "#Heatwave conditions/high day temperatures likely to prevail over various parts of the state tomorrow (9th May) as per alerts communicated by @mcbbsr." Regional Meteorology Centre, Bhubaneswar Director H R Biswas said that most parts of the state are likely to experience temperatures two to three degrees Celsius above normal during the next two days with no large charge thereafter.

Consequently, the mercury may soar to 40 degrees Celsius or more at a few places during the next four to five days.

"Odisha is likely to experience hot and discomfort weather during this period. People are advised to take precautionary measures while going outside," Biswas said.

As many as 14 places across the state on Monday recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius with Boudh becoming the hottest place in Odisha at 42 degrees Celsius.

Boudh was followed by Jharsuguda and Sambalpur (41.6), Rourkela (41.4), Angul (41.1), Sundergarh (41), Talcher (40.8), Bolangir and Jagatsinghpur (40.5), Titilagarh, Nayagarh, Sonepur and Kendrapara (40). State capital Bhubaneswar sizzled at 38.2 degrees Celsius while it was 39.5 degrees Celsius in Cuttack.

In another bulletin, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow warning, predicting thunderstorms with lightning in one or two places in Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Gajapati, Ganjam, Kandhamal, Mayurbhanj and Balasore districts till 8.30 am on Tuesday.

While there are no warnings thereafter, coastal and southern districts are likely to experience light to moderate rain for the next five days, it said.
"Everyone has the right to object but once the film has been approved by the court, is it ideal for the democracy to ban it? There was no official statement. Our appeal to govt is clear about its decision about the film in the state," The Kerala Story producer Vipul Shah tells Republic TV.

#KeralaStorySuperhit | We clarified our stand on the film multiple times, now audience has responded, they have made 'The Kerala Story' blockbuster: Vipul Shah #LIVE on #ThisIsExclusive with @shawansen#TheKeralaStory pic.twitter.com/1BJ95VXgiy  Republic (@republic) May 8, 2023

"We find it very strange that for exposing a terror network a film should be banned. We never expected this, we thought we will be lauded for our work," director Sudipto Sen said.
The Enforcement Directorate on Monday seized three properties at a prime location in Mumbai, valued more than Rs 41 crore, as part of a foreign exchange violation probe against Zavareh Soli Poonawalla whose name figured in the Panama Papers.

Zavareh Poonawalla is the brother of Cyrus S Poonawalla, the founder and CMD of vaccine major-- Serum Institute of India (SII). The company and its promoters are not linked to this case.

In a statement, the federal probe agency said Zavareh Poonawalla and his family member are accused of "remitting foreign exchange abroad by mis-utilising the provisions of the LRS (Liberalised Remittance Scheme)".

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized three immovable assets located at the Ceejay House in Mumbai's Worli area to the extent of Rs 41.64 crore under the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA), the statement said.

Zavareh Poonawalla and his family "used the maximum permissible limit (as available under the LRS) and from the year 2011-12, they remitted money abroad via mis-declarations under the pretext of 'family maintenance and self-maintenance' etc", the agency said. "However, none of their family members was residing abroad or holding NRI status," it alleged.

The entire funds remitted by (Zavareh) Poonawalla, whose name was found in the Panama Papers revelations regarding offshore entities, and his family members under LRS were invested into British Virgin Islands-based Stallast Limited, the ED said.

Dubbed the 'Panama Papers', an investigation of a stockpile of records from Panamanian legal firm Mossack Fonseca by Washington-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) in 2016 had named several world leaders and celebrities who allegedly stashed away money abroad in offshore companies. Investigators have said not all people whose name figured in this list were offenders.

The ED found that funds remitted by Zavareh Poonawalla and his family members were utilised by Stallast Limited to "purchase" four apartments in the Paddington area of central London. Multiple FEMA contraventions were seen in these transactions, it alleged.

The ED said besides "mis-declarations" in remittances, Zavareh Poonawalla and his family members also "wrongly" claimed these investments as foreign portfolio investments. In reality, the foreign entity was completely controlled by them and thus, they did overseas direct investment in a foreign wholly owned subsidiary without due permission of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the agency said.

The foreign assets were not declared to the RBI, and they continued to hold the foreign assets and are in continuous enjoyment of the same, it alleged.

"The properties abroad were acquired through the funds remitted under LRS to avoid reporting requirements to RBI and thus, (Zavareh) Poonawalla mis-utilised the LRS," the ED said. "Therefore, the equivalent value of properties held by them in India have been seized under the provisions of Section 37A of the FEMA," it said.
Rallygoers for a political party in Pakistan beat to death a participant for allegedly making a blasphemous speech, police said Sunday.

Local police officer Iqbal Khan said Maulana Nigar Alam, 40, was killed Saturday night by demonstrators in Sawaldher village of Mardan district northeast of Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The rallygoers, gathered to express support for the countrys judiciary, accused Alam of blasphemy when he made a concluding prayer at the end of the event.

Some words of his prayer were deemed blasphemous by a number of protestors, leading to torture and death at the hands of the angry mob, said Khan.

Witnesses said the police deputy on duty at the rally attempted to save the man by locking him up in a nearby shop, but the mob broke through the door and attacked him.

Videos circulating on social media showed people pushing the accused man to the ground, kicking him and beating him with batons. The man died at the scene.

Police took the body into custody and said an investigation was underway.

Accusing people of blasphemy in Pakistan is common.

Last month, the Pakistani police arrested and later released a Chinese national named Tian, who was working in Pakistan on a dam project and was accused by the locals of blasphemy.

In February, an angry mob entered a police station in Pakistans eastern city of Lahore, snatched a person accused of blasphemy from his cell and killed him.

In 2021, a Sri Lankan national, Priyantha Diyawadanage, who was working as a factory manager in Pakistan, was killed by an angry mob over allegations of blasphemy.

In 2017, Pakistani student Mashal Khan was killed by a mob on the premises of his university over allegations of posting blasphemous content online.
Chinas Defence Minister Gen. Li Shangfu told Pakistans naval chief Amjad Khan Niazi on Monday that the two all-weather friends should seek new areas of military cooperation and jointly safeguard their security interests and region. Li said the relations between the militaries of the two countries are an important part of China-Pakistan relations, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including the two navies, has achieved good results. Li said the militaries of the two countries should expand exchanges in new areas, create new cooperation highlights, and work together to safeguard the security interests of both countries and the region, a defence ministry statement here said.

Observers say Sino-Pakistan military cooperation in recent years focussed more on the navy as China gradually stepped up its naval presence in Indias backyard, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea where it is developing Pakistans Gwadar port. Besides acquiring four modern naval frigates from China, Pakistan will also be getting eight Chinese submarines as part of the efforts to modernisation, Admiral Niazi told the Chinese media during his visit earlier. Indian Navy Chief Admiral Kumar said last month that Pakistan Navy is modernising itself at a good pace and seeks to become a 50-platform force in 10-15 years, and they are adding new corvettes and frigates to their fleet.

Niazis visit is part of a flurry of high-level visits between the two countries this month amid Pakistans deepening economic and political crisis and reports of leaked documents highlighting deliberations in the Pakistan establishment on whether to move closer to the US to balance ties with China. Early this month, Pakistans Army chief Gen Asim Munir made his maiden visit to Beijing during which he met senior Chinese Generals and top diplomat Wang Yi who is the Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.

During Gen. Munirs visit, Chinas new Premier Li Qiang also held his first phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised continued financial help for Pakistan which is facing a serious political and economic crisis. It was followed by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gangs visit to Islamabad on May 5-6 during which he also met Army chief Gen. Munir. The visits followed reports in the US and Pakistan media quoting two Pakistani memos pointing to a deliberation in the countrys political and military establishment to open up relations with the US to balance ties with China. In one of the memos, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar warned that Pakistan can no longer try to maintain a middle ground between China and the United States.
A picturesque tourist destination will host crisis-weary Southeast Asian leaders with sun-splashed tropical islands, turquoise waters brimming with corals and manta rays, seafood feasts, and a hillside savannah crawling with Komodo dragons.

The sunshiny setting is a stark contrast to the seriousness of their agenda.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo picked the far-flung, rustic harbor town of Labuan Bajo as a laidback venue to discuss an agenda rife with contentious issues. These include the continuing bloody civil strife in Myanmar and the escalating territorial conflicts in the South China Sea between fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 10-nation regional bloc and its member states will meet for three days starting Tuesday, with the growing rivalry between the United States and China as a backdrop.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been reinforcing an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to better counter China over Taiwan and the long-seething territorial conflicts in the strategic South China Sea which involve four ASEAN members: Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Indonesia, this years ASEAN chair, has also confronted Chinese fishing fleets and coast guard that have strayed into what Jakarta says was its internationally recognized exclusive economic zone in the gas-rich Natuna Sea.

Widodo, who's in his final year on the world stage as he reaches the end of his two-term limit, said ASEAN aims to collaborate with any country to solve problems through dialogue.

That includes Myanmar where, two years after the military power grab that forced out Aung San Suu Kyis administration and sparked a bloody civil strife, ASEAN has failed to rein in the violence in its member state. A five-point peace plan by ASEAN leaders and the top Myanmar general, which calls for an immediate stop to killings and other violence and the start of a national dialogue, has been disregarded by Myanmars ruling military.

ASEAN stopped inviting Myanmars military leaders to its semiannual summits and would only allow non-political representatives to attend. Myanmar has protested the move.

In an additional concern involving Myanmar, Indonesian officials said Sunday that 20 of their nationals, who were trafficked into Myanmar and forced to perform cyber scams, had been freed from Myanmars Myawaddy township and brought to the Thai border over the weekend. During the summit, ASEAN leaders planned to express their concern over such human trafficking schemes in a joint statement, a draft copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said her country, as ASEAN chair, has tackled the Myanmar crisis in a non-adversarial way.

Colleagues certainly know that in the early stages of its leadership, Indonesia decided to take a non-megaphone diplomacy approach, Marsudi said. The aim is to provide space for the parties to build trust and for the parties to be more open in communicating.

Widodos choice of a seaside venue with stunning sunrises and sunsets and the sound of birds chirping all day complements that approach.

The Indonesian leader also hoped the high-profile ASEAN summit would put Labuan Bajo and outlying islands, dotted with white-sand beaches and even a rare pink-sand beach, under the global tourism spotlight.

This is a very good moment for us to host the ASEAN summit and showcase Labuan Bajo to the world, said Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who flew in Sunday with his wife to a red-carpet welcome flanked by military honor guards and dancing villagers with flower-filled headwear.

But there are a few hitches.

The far-flung fishing town with only three traffic lights and about 6,000 residents is acutely short of hotels for ASEANs swarm of diplomats, delegates and journalists. Many had to arrange to share rooms.

Unlike the more popular Bali resort island or the bustling concrete jungle of a capital Jakarta, which has hosted international conclaves in upscale hotels and convention centers, Labuan Bajo is a far smaller town that a visitor could cross from end to end with a brisk two-hour walk. There are no public buses, and villagers mostly move around by walking, riding scooters or driving private cars.

A small team of local technicians with hard hats were flown in to lay cables and expand internet connections at the venues on short notice.

On Sunday, Labuan Bajos small airport was jampacked with visitors. Teams of diplomats and journalists arrived to welcome streamers announcing the upbeat summit motto, ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.

Outside the airport named after the Komodo dragons, traffic quickly built up under the brutal noontime sun.

When the sun rose Monday morning, workers were still cementing some roadsides around the venues  a day before the summit opening.

Andre Kurniawan, who works at a dive center in Labuan Bajo, said the infrastructure developments would be a boon for Labuan Bajo villagers. We were isolated from some areas before and now they are open and the areas are getting better. I hope that Labuan Bajo can be a better tourist town in the future, he said.

Azril Azahari, chair of an association of Indonesian academic experts on tourism, told the AP that Labuan Bajo was not ready and apparently was chosen to host the summit on short notice. The hotel facilities and the lodging have become a problem. There is a ship being used for accommodation and its not a lodging ship, he said.

Welcoming visitors to her coffee shop ahead of the summit, Suti Ana said even though it wasnt the best time for Labuan Bajo to host, ASEAN would boost local businesses. But we cannot wait, so this is the time, she said.

Choosing the small port town was not a bad idea, Azril said, if it came with adequate planning and government investments in infrastructure.

Located on the western tip of Flores island in southern Indonesia, Labuan Bajo, aside from its beaches and diving and snorkeling spots, has been better known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park  a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only place in the world where Komodo dragons, the worlds largest lizards, are found in the wild.

Environmentalists and tourism analysts fear that a wider public interest could put further stress on the already endangered Komodo dragons. Only about 3,300 were known to exist as of 2022.

If more people come, sooner or later the Komodo dragons cannot breed in peace, this can be a problem, Azahari said, citing longstanding fears that the Komodos could face extinction without full protection.

Despite the odds, Indonesian officials said they would do everything to successfully and safely host the ASEAN summit in Labuan Bajo.

If theres any commotion along the way, that will be a big stain on the nations dignity, Edistasius Endi, the regent of Labuan Najos West Manggarai district, said in a statement.
The Arab Leagues decision to re-admit Syria after 12 years of ostracization was a significant symbolic victory for Damascus, part of a larger regional realignment and an indication of the United States waning role, analysts say. But it may not immediately bring the reconstruction dollars that Syrian President Bashar Assad is hoping for, they say. Nor is it likely to bring the changes Syrias neighbors want, such as an agreement on refugee returns and moves to reduce drug trafficking.

Syria is returning to the Arab fold even though there is no sign on the horizon of a resolution to the countrys uprising-turned-civil war, now in its 13th year. The long-stalemated conflict has killed nearly a half million people since March 2011 and displaced half of the countrys pre-war population of 23 million. Multiple attempts to mediate a resolution have failed. The league approved Syrias readmission at a closed-door meeting in Cairo on Sunday. It means Assad can attend the leagues summit in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on May 19, further cementing his move out of pariah status.

WHAT IS THE ARAB LEAGUE AND WHY WAS SYRIA SUSPENDED FROM IT?

The Arab League is a 22-member organization founded in 1945 to promote regional cooperation and resolve disputes. But it is widely seen as toothless and has long struggled to implement conflict-resolution efforts, especially in the recent era of wars in Syria, Yemen and Libya and a bitter diplomatic rift between Gulf monarchies and Qatar years ago.

The league suspended Syrias membership in 2011 after Assads government cracked down brutally on mass protests against his rule, an uprising that quickly descended into a brutal civil war. Qatar, Saudi Arabia and several other Arab countries funneled support to armed opposition groups trying to overthrow Assad, who was backed by Russia, Iran and militias affiliated with Tehran.

WHY LET IT BACK IN NOW?

After years of deadlock in the war, Assads government has a secure grip on most of the country, particularly most main cities. Opposition groups or U.S.-backed Kurdish forces control most of northern and eastern Syria -- and thats unlikely to change any time soon -- but it has been clear for years now that an opposition overthrow of Assad is virtually impossible. Arab governments that may have once hoped for that outcome are now deciding its better to reach out.

Were not looking for magical solutions, but what we do know is that the current situation is unsustainable. Its going nowhere, Saudi political scientist Hesham Alghannam said. We dont know when the conflict will end, and boycotting the regime didnt lead to a solution.

In recent years, several Arab countries moved towards reestablishing diplomatic ties, most notably the United Arab Emirates in 2018. Jordan and Syria reopened their borders in 2021. Last month, Saudi Arabia and Syria announced they are moving to reopen embassies and resume flights.

The devastating Feb. 6 earthquake that hit Syria and Turkey also sped up rapprochement, bringing sympathy for Syria. More than 6,000 were killed in Syria and hundreds of thousands lost their homes. Senior officials from once-hostile countries visited Damascus for the first time in over a decade and sent planeloads of aid.

Approaching Assad under the pretext of the humanitarian crisis was a less controversial way to continue an improving of ties that was already underway. Another boost was the Chinese-brokered deal to reestablish ties between Saudi Arabia and regional rival Iran, which is encouraging them to de-escalate conflicts like Syria and Yemen.

Also, the United States de-prioritization of the Middle East and particularly of the Syria portfolio led regional actors to work out their own deals with Damascus, despite Washingtons objections, said Randa Slim, director of the Conflict Resolution and Track II Dialogues Program at the Washington-based Middle East Institute.

WHICH COUNTRIES WERE FOR AND AGAINST IT?

Saudi Arabia played a key role in pushing for Syrias return to the Arab League, hosting a meeting last month to discuss the topic. Jordan hosted another gathering earlier this month. Qatar remained the most prominent hold-out. However, after Sundays decision to readmit Damascus, Qatar said in a statement that it will not be an obstacle to an Arab consensus. Kuwait also has not endorsed normalization, said Bader Al-Saif, assistant professor of history at Kuwait University.

(Kuwait) wants to know what the conditions are, what the political solution looks like. Will there be elections? An apology? Anything? he said. Despite these key skeptics, al-Saif says Riyadh will continue to push for Damascus to work for a more robust and integrated Arab order. One main criticism of the rapprochement is that Assad has made no concessions toward a political deal to resolve Syrias conflict. Without a credible resolution, millions of Syrians who fled abroad  many to neighboring countries  will be too afraid to return.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN ON THE GROUND?

On the symbolic level, Syrias return to the league signals to opposition Syrians that they are left on their own, Slim said, and confirms to Damascus that its scorched-earth strategy in the war worked. But on a practical level, a seat at the Arab League is not that powerful, she said. U.S. and European sanctions will likely prevent Arab countries from significant investments in reconstruction in the near future. Many Syrians in government-held areas hope to see a benefit in greater trade with the Arab world to help to offset a crippling economic crisis. That could happen, Alghannam said. If there is stability, I believe there will be an influx of Gulf investment and trade with Syria. Still, he noted, Saudi-Syrian relations were strained even before the Syrian conflict, so confidence-building will take time.

A statement issued by the Arab League after Sundays meeting suggested that Syrias further reintegration will depend on moving towards a political solution to the conflict, combating drug trafficking and facilitating the return of refugees. Gulf countries have also pushed for Damascus to curb Iranian influence in Syria. Maha Yahya, the director of the Beirut-based Carnegie Middle East Center, said it is unlikely that Syria will meet Arab countries demands. As such, she said, I honestly dont think this move is going to open the floodgates of support for Syria.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan has slammed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, reported Dawn. He has criticised the two for their foreign trips amid the country's current "crises", as per Pakistan media reports. It is to be noted that Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has currently visited the UK for the coronation of King Charles III while Foreign Minister Bilawal visited India on Thursday to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)'s Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Goa.

Imran Khan slams Pakistan's PM and FM

While addressing a PTI rally from his vehicle in Lahore, Khan targeted and lambasted the two leaders. According to Dawn, the rally was organised to show support and solidarity with the Supreme Court, Constitution and Chief Justice of Pakistan Umar Ata Bandial. "Pakistan is being humiliated in the world. We ask the question, Bilawal you are touring the entire world but first tell us, before going, do you ask anyone that you're spending the country's money on a trip, so what will be the benefit or loss from it?" said Imran Khan while addressing the public, reported Dawn. Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) has kicked off its election campaign, reported Geo News. While announcing it, he asserted that National Assembly would complete its constitutional term. Further, on Sunday, Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah also rejected Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan's demand to dissolve assemblies. The statement by Sanaullah comes after the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government refused to accept the Supreme Court's verdict on holding elections to the Punjab Assembly on May 14. Further, he stated that his parent would win the elections. "We will win the elections. Free and transparent elections will be held this year and the National Assembly will complete its constitutional term," he said as per the Geo News report.

Meanwhile, India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar has made remarks on terrorism during the SCO meeting, held in Goa, India. He asserted that terrorism in all its forms, including cross-border terrorism, must be stopped, usually a reference to Pakistan. "We firmly believe that there can be no justification for terrorism and it must be stopped in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, " said Jaishankar. Later, he has alleged that Pakistan-backed terrorists in Kashmir and Bilawal's position were "found out and called out", according to Dawn.
Furious over the brutal killings of teachers in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, large groups of tribesmen took to the streets to stage a protest on Sunday. The protest was held in Parachinar, where demonstrators condemned the killing of eight people in separate incidents last week and demanded authorities apprehend the perpetrators.

People belonging to the Turi Bangash tribe also partook in a march to the Parachinar Press Club where local tribal leaders had gathered to deliver speeches. Among the leaders were Syed Muhammad, and Syed Akhlaq Hussain, who refuted claims that the brutal killings were spurred by a land dispute.

According to Dawn, they said that members of the Turi Bangash tribe were not involved in any such conflicts, and threatened to carry out a bigger movement if justice is not served. A press release issued by the tribe also stated that the violent incident was being wrongly portrayed by media outlets and the local administration.

In addition to that, the statement called for an investigation to be launched into the employees, headmaster and the police constable who were present at the school where the killings took place. People across Khyber Pakhtunkhwas Kurram district have taken to the streets after eight people, including five teachers, fell victim to gun violence last Thursday.

Protest for killing of Shia teachers & staff in #Parachinar pic.twitter.com/VzdCA9eHw7  Sila Naqvi (@SilaNaqvi) May 5, 2023

Parachinar Protest Against Teacher's Killings pic.twitter.com/EeAVOdjiuk  Gurdaspuri (@TariqRa42429072) May 7, 2023

Former Pak president condemns brutal killings of teachers

The first shooting incident occurred on a road near the Shalozan region, while the second took place at Teri Mengal School. The incident was rebuked by former Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, who said that the country will "never forgive the killers of its brave children."

He also expressed grief for the victims and said that the "killing of teachers who are fulfilling their duty is an unforgivable act." Furthermore, Zardari "prayed for the high ranks of the martyred teachers and strength and fortitude to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity," according to a statement released by the Pakistan People's Party.
Widening the rift between Pakistan's incumbent government and the Supreme Court, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif demanded on Sunday that the apex institution must be held accountable for all the unlawful and "unconstitutional" acts it has committed in the past seven decades.

Speaking to reporters in London, United Kingdom, the minister said: All the unconstitutional and illegal actions taken in the past 75 years, especially by the judiciary, should be held accountable. He made the statement in response to a question about Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif who has been living in the English capital since 2019 on the grounds of medical issues.

Sharif, the former prime minister of Pakistan, stepped down from the top post after he was disqualified from holding public office by the Supreme Court in a ruling on the Panama Papers case. He was disqualified after a five-member bench chaired by then-chief justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar unanimously voted on the decision, citing his failure to reveal his non-withdrawn receivables constituting assets from UAE-based Capital FZE in his nomination papers for the 2013 polls. The erstwhile PM's actions were deemed as "not honest and truthful" by the court, Geo News reported.

Khawaja Asif provides 'best solution' to the tussle

Asif also said during the conversation with reporters on Sunday that he was in London to meet the PML-N supremo. When asked about the bold address he delivered in the National Assembly on May 2, he said that he felt it was his responsibility to defend the parliament.

The best solution to the crisis is that all the institutions should work within the ambit of the Constitution, the minister said. Lately, Pakistan's legislature and judiciary have locked horns after the latter said that the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) decision to delay the Punjab Assembly elections was unconstitutional. It then announced May 14 as the revised date.

Meanwhile, in Karachi, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) emerged victorious in six out of 11 Union Councils (UCs) in the local government (LG) bypolls as Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) secured four seats. In the UC-2 Bihar Colony, PPPs Abdul Qadir won after getting 3,243 votes. On the other hand, UC-2 Korangi saw the party's Muhammad Israr Khan receiving 2,647 votes.
In Germany, whenever my husbands bosses want to ask about anything related to work on the weekend, they have to text and email first to ask for permission to bother him.

I strongly sympathize with the frustration many people have when asked to work on the weekend. My husband is German, working in a mid-level management position. Before the pandemic, his company stipulated that employees could only work a maximum of 10 hours a day. Every employee has to check in and out when they arrive or leave.

If anyone stays in the office for more than 10 hours, his or her immediate boss will receive complaints from HR for unreasonable allocation of work.

During and after the pandemic, the company used software to track staff working hours. If the system found you are working more than 10 hours a day, it would conclude that either your boss assigned too much work with an unreasonable deadline, or you were incapable of finishing the task on time. Both required reports to explain what happened.

Every time bosses want to ask something related to work outside regular hours, they text or email my husband first to see if he has 20-30 minutes for a discussion. They never impose a task and force him to work outside office hours.

He receives salary increases upon regular positive employee reviews. He enjoys the companys benefits in full. When he goes on a business trip, he is often busier and has to work up to 12 hours a day, but he has the right to report to his boss directly to accumulate the extra working hours and get breaks on other days.

When I was a student, I worked in a restaurant in Austria. My shift ended at 10 p.m. But one day, there was an unusually large number of guests and everyone was very busy. But my boss, a Greek, pointed to the clock and asked me to go home because my shift was over.

I offered to stay a little longer to help and did not ask for extra payment. But my boss said it was his job to coordinate personnel for such situations, and my job was to leave at the end of my shift. He made sure everyone left on time, and in return, he was not satisfied if someone came to work late.

I talked to my friends and they said my boss did not necessarily care for my wellbeing, but might be afraid that if he had let me work late, I would have complained to the Department of Labor later. That could really hurt his business because Austria's labor unions are very powerful.

I saw the logic in my friends explanation. In Vietnam, many labor unions do not really protect the rights of workers, leaving businesses to abuse the enthusiasm of employees and consider working overtime as a matter of course, and that one must devote extra to the company to get a promotion or the like.

I understand the differences between Vietnams and Germany or Austrias working environment, but I am giving these examples so everyone can see, it is completely wrong for a boss to assign work after hours without agreement from the employee, or overtime pay.

It is not wrong for employees to turn off their phones and refuse to accept overtime.
As Turkey heads for presidential and parliamentary elections at the weekend that are shaping up to be the strongest challenge to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his 20 years as leader, complaints are growing about the fairness of the vote.

Turkeys opposition has long said that the countrys elections are played out on an unlevel playing field, claims often backed by international observers.

Media coverage stands out as the most obvious example of where Erdogan enjoys an advantage over his opponents, but factors such as the use of state resources while campaigning and the questionable interpretation of electoral law also feature.

Some 90% of Turkeys media is in the hands of the government or its backers, according to Reporters Without Borders, ensuring overwhelming airtime for the president. Only a handful of opposition newspapers remain in print, most having transitioned to online-only editions.

During April, Erdogan received nearly 33 hours of airtime on the main state-run TV station, according to opposition members of the broadcasting watchdog. His presidential opponent, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, received 32 minutes.

The main opposition party, the Republican Peoples Party, or CHP, last month launched legal action against broadcaster TRT for failing to screen its campaign video.

Unfortunately, the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation has moved away from being an impartial and objective institution and has turned into the Tayyip Radio and Television Corporation, CHP lawmaker Tuncay Ozkan said.

The remaining independent media also face increasing restrictions. Last month, broadcasting authority RTUK fined independent channels Fox News, Halk TV and TELE1 over news and commentary deemed a breach of regulations. Ilhan Tasci, an opposition-appointed RTUK member, said in all three cases the stations had been accused of criticizing or questioning ruling-party actions.

In a statement following the last presidential and general elections in 2018, observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe noted that Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) enjoyed an undue advantage, including in excessive coverage by government-affiliated public and private media outlets.

The governments reach has also been extended over social media, where many opposition voices have retreated.

A disinformation law introduced in October allows a jail sentence of up to three years for spreading false information with the sole aim of creating anxiety, fear or panic among the public.

Sinan Aygul, the only journalist to be prosecuted under the new law, was handed a 10-month prison term in February. He is currently free while appealing the case.

The real aim is to silence all dissident voices in society, said Aygul, chair of the journalists association in Bitlis, southeastern Turkey. It is a law that targets anyone who expresses an opinion. It targets not only individuals but also media organs, he said.

The ill-defined law creates crimes from basic journalistic activities, Aygul said, adding that it could be used during the elections to target groups seeking to protect ballot box security who use social media to highlight abuses.

If there is going to be fraud in the election, all opposition channels will be silenced by using this law, he said.

The imposition of a state of emergency over the 11 provinces hit by Februarys earthquake has also raised concerns about how the polls will be conducted in the region. A U.N. report published April 11 said at least 3 million people had relocated from their homes in the quake zone, many of them heading to other parts of Turkey.

However, just 133,000 people from the earthquake region have registered to vote outside their home provinces, the head of the Supreme Election Council said last month. Ahmet Yener added that election officials are overseeing preparations, including polling stations at temporary shelters.

In 2018, a nationwide state of emergency imposed following a 2016 coup attempt was in place until shortly before the election, which the OSCE said restricted the media and freedoms of assembly and expression.

Erdogan has stepped up his public appearances, which are closely followed by most TV channels, and uses these official duties to attack his rivals. Attending a ceremony on the Friday of Eid al-Fitr last month to mark renovations to Istanbuls Blue Mosque, he accused the opposition of working with terrorist groups.

The previous evening, the leaders of four political parties allied to the AKP were present for an event to launch the delivery of Black Sea natural gas, despite none holding any government position.

Other large projects that were rolled out ahead of the vote include Turkeys first nuclear power reactor built by Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear energy company, and several defense developments.

Critics also point to the bending of election law to allow government ministers to stand as parliamentary candidates while remaining in office, despite legal requirements to the contrary.

The election board, meanwhile, has previously faced criticism for siding with AKP objections during elections.

In the 2019 local polls, the victorious opposition mayoral candidate for Istanbul was forced to face a rerun following AKP complaints of ballot irregularities. Results from district and city council votes, which were collected in the same boxes and favored the AKP, were not questioned.

Adem Sozuer of Istanbul Universitys law faculty told the opposition Cumhuriyet newspaper that voters had lost confidence in the election authorities. There is widespread suspicion in a significant part of society that elections will be rigged, he said.
Czech President and Former Chair of the NATO Military Committee, Petr Pavel warned Ukraine against a rushed counteroffensive amid the raging Russia-Ukriane war. The decorated retired general and a war hero made these proclamations during an interview with The Guardian, while he was in London for the coronation of King Charles III. As per the British news outlet, Pavel made a similar assertion during a recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. In the meeting in Kyiv, the Czech president cautioned that the war-stricken country no longer has an element of surprise, which helped Kyiv to make successes in the initial stages of the war.

Apparently, they still have a feeling that they do not have everything to start successfully an operation, Pavel told The Guardian. The Czech president was mentioning the time when Zelenskyy had asked him and the Slovakia President Zuzana Caputova, to arm the Ukrainian fleet before the long-anticipated counter-assault. The 61-year-old Czech president also told the news outlet that in the meeting he had warned the Ukrainian Prime Minister, not pushed into a faster pace before they are fully prepared. Because it might be a temptation to push them, for some, to demonstrate some results, Pavel said in the interview. It will be extremely harmful to Ukraine if this counteroffensive fails because they will not have another chance, at least not this year, he added.

Kyiv should not underestimate Russians: Pavel

In the interview, the Czech president suggested that his Ukrainian counterpart does not beat around the bush and is a straight shooter. "Volodymyr Zelenskyy is a man who doesnt have time to go around the problem and I indicated from the very first moment of our meeting that Im also not a man of diplomatic language, Pavel said. So I encouraged him to go straight to the problem, and he said: 'Well, OK, we need a lot of ammunition. And then he gave me a load of equipment that they need to build successfully and obligates for a counteroffensive, he added.

The erstwhile war hero also insisted that the conflict-stricken country should not underestimate Moscow. Kyiv should not underestimate the Russians because they have enough manpower, they still have enough equipment, even though it is older, probably in lower numbers, but still, they have a large number of artillery barrels, they have a lot of ammunition, he asserted. They are not so incapable in terms of defence. And of course, being in defence makes it easier for them because Ukraine will have suffered terrible losses, even if they are well prepared. So attacking an enemy like Russia will be difficult and Russians will not be caught by surprise for the second time, he concluded. The former military general chaired NATOs military committee until 2018. Pavel was also decorated by both the Czech and French governments for rescuing French troops besieged by the Serbs during the Bosnian War in 1993.
On the eve of Victory Day commemorating the Red Army's triumph against Hitler's Nazi troops during WWII [which Russians call the Great Patriotic War], Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov visited Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Moscow, the Kyrgyz leader unveiled a memorial dedicated to the fallen Kyrgyz soldiers who lost lives fighting in World War II. Speaking at a pre-Victory Day event in Moscow's western city of Tver, the site of heavy WWII troop fighting, Japarov said that the historic monument would "serve as a symbol of our eternal memory to all the heroes who fought for our future."

Russia's Immortal Regiment procession on Victory day cancelled

The latter also held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin and other officials. The Kyrgyz leader is among the foreign heads of state who are slated to attend the May 9 Victory Day events in Moscow. The presidents of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan, as well as the prime minister of Armenia, have agreed to attend the traditional May 9 parade in Moscow, according to Moscow-based reports. All five Central Asian republics were part of the former Soviet Union during World War II. Russia celebrates Victory Day with full fervour since the illegal annexation of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and holds a military parade on Moscow's Red Square. They gained independence as the USSR collapsed in 1991.

Reports have emerged that due to security concerns, Moscow has cancelled its Immortal Regiment civilian processions, one of the main Victory Day events. On May 3, Moscow-installed authorities in Sevastopol reported a massive fire in a fuel depot in the vicinity of a crucial bridge that links Russias mainland with the 2014 annexed Crimea. Moscow slammed Ukraine's military for drone attacks in Crimeas largest city.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, meanwhile, proposed to move the 'Victory Day' celebration to May 8. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis. The world admires all those who were protecting and protected life. Who threw down the Nazi flags on the liberated territory and who opened the gates of the concentration camps. Who restored freedom to the nations, who destroyed and condemned Nazi evil, Zelenskyy wrote on Twitter. Today, I submitted a bill to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine proposing that May 8 be the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in the Second World War of 1939-1945. Eternal memory to all those who died in the Second World War! Glory to each and everyone who fought against Nazism and won! Glory to all our heroes of different times, to whom we equally owe our lives! he further added.
After his swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 1, Brazil's Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked up the ramp to the presidential palace arm in arm with Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire, instantly recognizable by his yellow headdress and wooden lip plate. But a major railway that would accelerate deforestation in Metuktire's ancestral land risks souring relations between the leftist leader and the chief of the Kayapo people. And it's just one of several mega-projects that activists and experts say would devastate the natural world  and seriously dent Lula's newfound image as a defender of the environment  if they proceed.

Others include an oil drilling project near the mouth of the Amazon River; a highway that would slice through some of the Amazon rainforests most protected areas; and renewal of a giant hydroelectric dams license. Lula is talking about the environment, showing preoccupation with illegal mining, demarcating Indigenous territories. Hes already learned a lot, but needs to learn more. Were still very worried, said Alessandra Korap, an Indigenous leader of the Munduruku people who recently won the Goldman Environmental Prize for work that included battling illegal mining.

Under Lulas predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, deforestation soared to a 15-year high and environmental restrictions were weakened. The far-right leader filled key positions in environmental agencies with agribusiness allies and military officers. Indigenous peoples rights were trampled.

After narrowly defeating Bolsonaro in last year's election, Lula has strived to put environmental protection and respect for Indigenous peoples rights at the heart of his third term. He resumed successful pursuit of international donations for the Amazon Fund that combats deforestation, launched a military campaign to eject illegal miners from Yanomami territory, committed to ending all illegal deforestation by 2030 and restarted the demarcation of Indigenous areas.

But Lula faces difficult tests in the large infrastructure projects. While opponents regard them as catastrophic, some in Lula's Workers' Party continue to view them as essential for providing jobs and promoting growth. And Brazil, a developing nation, has heavy demand for socioeconomic benefits.

THE OIL-DRILLING PROJECT

Ibama, Brazils environmental agency, will decide in coming months whether to license drilling in one sector near the mouth of the Amazon. Approval would surely lead to drilling in the whole region, said Suely Araujo, a former Ibama head now a public policy specialist with the Climate Observatory, a network of non-profits.

Its a matter of coherence. Lulas speeches on environmental protection and the climate crisis are bang on point. But if oil exploration is intensified, it will mean expanding fossil fuels. There would be an inconsistency, Araujo said. During Lulas first terms, huge offshore discoveries became a means of financing health, education and social welfare programs.

To a large extent, this vision remains, meaning it will be very difficult to persuade the government to give up strategic projects, even when there are significant social environmental risks, said Maiara Folly, director of CIPO, a think tank focused on climate and international relations. With existing production set to peak in coming years, there's sharp interest in securing more off Brazil's northern coast. It's a unique and biodiverse location, home to little-studied swathes of mangroves and a coral reef.

Araujo said the project risks leaks that would be carried elsewhere by strong tides. State-run oil giant Petrobras has earmarked almost half its five-year, $6 billion exploration budget for the area. CEO Jean Paul Prates said the first well would be temporary, and that the company has never recorded a leak in offshore drilling.

Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira said in March that the area is the passport to the future for development in Brazil's northern regions. Lula has used the same term to describe the earlier offshore oil discoveries. Eighty civil society and environmental organizations, WWF Brasil and Greenpeace, have called for the license to be declined pending an in-depth study.

THE HYDROELECTRIC DAM

The Belo Monte hydroelectric dam, a concrete colossus on the Xingu River, was planned under Lula and built by his successor, Dilma Rousseff. Supporters saw it as a way to generate jobs and add power to Brazil's grid. Indigenous populations and environmental campaigners fiercely opposed it, and studies show its impacts have been disastrous. Civil society organizations estimate tens of thousands of people were displaced, and experts attribute a local surge of violence to lost jobs. One area of concern is the Xingu's Volta Grande, or Big Bend, which has lost much of its water. That caused the disappearance of fish -- the basis of many Indigenous populations subsistence.

Belo Monte is back on Lulas agenda, with Ibama weighing whether to renew its license. The agency reported last summer that Norte Energia, the dam's owner, hadn't respected many of the conditions for its original license. Local media said Norte Energia proposed to distribute 20,000 reais (about $4,000) in compensation to nearly 2,000 fishermen. In January, researchers in the region published a letter environmental journalism website Sumauma calling on Lula and his administration to investigate and punish crimes and injustices surrounding the dam.

Any government really committed to conserving the Amazon and fighting the climate crisis is obliged to recognize the problems caused by Belo Monte and to fix the damage and impacts caused, the letter said.

Local populations are demanding the license be renewed only if Norte Energia agrees to use the water in a way that allows life in and around the river to be sustained. The license was originally issued under heavy pressure from Rousseff's government, said Folly. In a March interview with Sumauma, Lula's environment minister, Marina Silva, promised that this time, nobody is going to be coerced, as they were before, and this represents a total change.

THE HIGHWAY

The BR-319 highway connects Porto Velho to Manaus. It was abandoned in the 1980s after falling into disuse, but the government has shown signs of wanting to repave it to facilitate the export of commodities. Environmentalists and scientists warn that could lead to uncontrolled deforestation in the region by increasing land speculation and giving easy access to land grabbers. After Bolsonaro announced that a section of the road would be repaved, deforestation in nearby areas quickly surged, according to Brazils national space agency.

Lula told Radio Difusora last June that he favored reconstruction, calling it important for the economies of Amazonas and Rondonia states. Ibama's president Rodrigo Agostinho told the AP in March that the agency has slowed the permitting process in order to analyze carefully.

THE RAILWAY

Similar concerns surround a 933-kilometer (around 580 miles) railway known as Ferrograo that would move grains from the heartland toward the Tapajos River for eventual shipping abroad. The project would mean fewer trucks moving soy and corn, and thus reduced carbon emissions. But it might also mean rising deforestation. A 2021 study from the Federal University of Minas Gerais projected deforestation of more than 230,000 hectares in Indigenous lands in Mato Grosso state by 2035 if it is completed.

The railway is on hold pending a court's ruling on the constitutionality of a law that permitted felling forest in the Jamanxim National Park to make way for its crossing. In January, Lula's transport minister, Renan Filho, placed Ferrograo among top priority projects. Doto Takak-Ire, who like Chief Raoni is a leader of the Kayapo, said in a column published in O Globo newspaper in March that the project would threaten the survival of 48 Indigenous peoples, and called it the railway of Indigenous genocide.
Under a set of white tents at the U.S.-Mexico border in Brownsville, Texas, dozens of Venezuelan men waited. Some sat on curbs and others leaned on metal barricades. When the gates eventually opened, the long line of men filed slowly up the pedestrian pathway to the bridge and across the Rio Grande River to Mexico. In the past few weeks, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials have been facilitating these expulsions three times a day as roughly 30,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have entered the U.S. in this region since mid-April. That's compared with 1,700 migrants Border Patrol agents encountered in the first two weeks of April.

In the other end of the state, in El Paso, officials are dealing with another surge of migrants and worry that thousands more are waiting to cross. All this comes as the U.S. is preparing for the end of a policy linked to the coronavirus pandemic that allowed it to quickly expel many migrants, and it spotlights concerns about whether the end of the immigration limits under Title 42 of a 1944 public health law will mean even more migrants trying to cross the southern border.

Weve been preparing for quite some time and we are ready. What we are expecting is indeed a surge. And what we are doing is planning for different levels of a surge, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said last week during a visit to southern Texas. But he also stressed that the situation at the border is extremely challenging.

He spoke from a location in Brownsville where U.S. officials had set up a tent and facilities like portable bathrooms for migrants. He said it's difficult to identify the cause of the recent Venezuelan surge but said the U.S. is working with Mexico to address it and predicted change very shortly. Many of those crossing the border are entering through Brownsville just north of the Mexican border town of Matamoros. The city was rocked by another crisis Sunday when an SUV plowed into people waiting at a bus stop across from the city's migrant shelter. Eight people, mostly men from Venezuela, died.

Ricardo Marquez, a 30-year-old Venezuelan man, arrived at a shelter in McAllen after crossing the border with his wife and 5-month-old child in Brownsville. They left Venezuela because his daughter needs surgery. I was confronted with the decision to either stay there or risk it all for my daughter, he said. They had crossed the Rio Grande after spending a month in Matamoros trying to get an appointment through an app the U.S. uses to schedule appointments for people without documents to come to the border and seek entry.

Officials in President Joe Biden's administration say they have been preparing for well over a year for the end of Title 42. The strategy has hinged on providing more legal pathways for migrants to get to the U.S. without risking the perilous journey to the border. That includes things like setting up centers in foreign countries where migrants can apply to emigrate as well as a humanitarian parole process already in place with 30,000 slots a month for people from four countries to come to the U.S. Starting May 12 they're expanding appointments available through the CBP One app Marquez tried to use. When it was launched many migrants and advocates criticized the app, saying it had technological problems and there simply weren't enough appointments.

The strategy is also heavy on consequences. The U.S. is proposing a rule that would severely limit asylum to migrants who first travel through another country, quickly screening migrants seeking asylum at the border and deporting those deemed not qualified, and a five-year ban on reentry for those deported. A lot of these consequences have been met with harsh criticism by immigrants' rights groups who have gone so far as to compare the policies to then-President Donald Trump's and say the right to apply for asylum on U.S. soil is sacrosanct. Much of the Biden administration strategy is also facing legal peril in the coming weeks. The proposed rule limiting asylum is almost certain to be the subject of lawsuits. And Republican-leaning states want to stop the Democratic administration's use of humanitarian parole on such a large scale.

The administration has also been increasing Immigration and Customs Enforcement flights to remove people from the country  flights like one that took off recently from an airport in Harlingen, Texas. Shortly after dawn three buses pulled up next to a plane. One by one migrants got out of the bus. They were wearing handcuffs and leg restraints and surgical masks. First they were patted down for contraband and then slowly walked up the stairs to the plane. Altogether 133 migrants were sent back to their home country of Guatemala.

But those flights only work if countries accept them. Venezuela does not. And Colombia says it's suspending deportation flights due to cruel and degrading treatment of migrants. Administration officials say they're using technology to speed up the processing of migrants who cross the border without documentation and using mobile processing, so they can process migrants while they're being transported by bus or van, for example. They've pushed to digitize documents that at one time were filled out by hand by Border Patrol. And they've beefed up the hiring of contractors so agents can remain in the field.

But critics have slammed the administration, saying it's not doing enough. Kristen Sinema, an independent U.S. senator from Arizona, said on CBS' Face the Nation on Sunday that the administration wasn't communicating with local officials about things like what type of surge to expect or whether buses would be available to transport migrants. And she said a decision to send 1,500 military troops to the border came too late.

In communities that border Mexico, officials and community groups that care for newly arrived migrants are anxious about what the end of Title 42 means. Sister Norma Pimentel runs Catholic Charities' Humanitarian Respite Center, the largest shelter in South Texas. The shelter functions mainly as a resource center where migrants can purchase tickets, make calls, eat and rest before traveling to their next destination, where they often have family or other contacts. But, Pimentel said, many of the Venezuelans in this latest surge dont have connections in the U.S., making it harder for them to move to the next destination. That becomes a problem for us, she said.

The federal government gives money to communities to help them deal with the increases in migrants. On Friday the administration announced that $332 million had been disbursed to 35 local governments and service organizations. Most goes to communities close to the border due to the urgencies they are confronting, but cities far from the border also get funds. In the Texas border city of El Paso, about 2,200 migrants are currently camped or living on the streets a few blocks from major ports of entry that connect El Paso with the Mexican city of Juarez. The city is prepared to open up shelters next week if needed at two vacant school buildings and a civic center.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser estimated that roughly 10,000 to 12,000 migrants are in Juarez waiting to cross, as local officials prepare for the unknown. Leeser said migrants are flocking to the border under false assumptions that it will be easier to gain entry to the U.S. when Title 42 goes away, but for many there could be tougher consequences.

It's a message federal officials have been repeating. But they're competing against a powerful human smuggling network that facilitates northern migration and the desperation of migrants who feel they have no other option. At the Brownsville port of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials say they've run drills to prepare in case theres a surge of migrants trying to cross and they need to close the bridge. Pedestrians cross from Matamoros using a covered walkway that can only accommodate a few people across. Worried about the impact of long lines of migrants coming to the port after May 11 without an appointment and impacting port operations, they're calling on people to schedule appointments through CBP One.
In Brief

Chinese officials repeatedly assert that the Cairo Declaration (1943) and Potsdam Declaration (1945) are two historical documents which prove that mainland China holds jurisdiction over Taiwan.

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) found these claims to be false. Both documents clearly state the conditions for Japans surrender at the end of the Second World War include forfeiting control of Taiwan and restoring the island to the Republic of China, or ROC.

The documents were never intended nor settle the current political disputes between Taiwan and China. Such statements by Chinese officials often misleadingly ignore the fact that the Republic of China exercises de facto sovereignty over Taiwan and the ambiguousness of which of the two governments holds legal sovereignty over the island.

In Depth

From the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949 up till the present day, the Peoples Republic of China claims that it is the sole legal government that represents China and refuses to recognize the de facto ROC sovereignty over Taiwan.

As succinctly stated by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in a speech given in September 2022, the government of the Peoples Republic of China is recognized as the sole legal government representing the whole of China [including Taiwan].

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang attempted to support the longstanding claim by Chinese officials that their governments sovereignty over Taiwan has a historical basis in an April 21 public speech in Shanghai.

Taiwan's return to China is an integral part of the post-World War II international order, clearly written into both the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, said Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying, who posted tweets that reiterated the claim.

Did either the Cairo Declaration or Potsdam Declaration attempt to settle the dispute over Taiwan?

No, they did not.

At the time of their announcement, neither of these the declarations was meant to address the question of whether the Republic of China should relinquish sovereignty over Taiwan and allow Communist China to govern the island, says Richard Bush, a senior fellow at the Center for East Asia Policy Studies and author of several books on Taiwan-U.S. relations. He was also the chairman and managing director of the American Institute of Taiwan, Americas de facto embassy in Taipei.

Four political leaders who participated in the Cairo Conference are seated in the front row. From left to right: Chiang Kai-shek, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Winston Churchill and Soong Mei-ling. (Photo from the Cairo Conference Archives)

Because the declarations were statements of intent prior to a negotiation over Taiwans sovereignty, the PRC reasoning is faulty, Bush notes.

Given that the Peoples Republic of China had not even been established at the time the two declarations were made, it is illogical to use such documents to settle the dispute over Taiwan.

Chinese officials often assert that the Cairo Declaration restored Taiwan and the surrounding islands to China, instead of the full original wording of the treaty, the Republic of China. Copies of the Potsdam Declaration printed in Mainland China also often abbreviate the term the National Government of the Republic of China used in the opening article to simply the National Government of China.

These seemingly small changes allow the PRC to more easily claim that the treaty grants their government jurisdiction and sovereignty over Taiwan. The terms are close enough to the original wording to sound convincing, yet different enough to sidestep the pesky fact that the Republic of China still exists.

Yet ultimately even this change in terminology does not make a big difference. Neither the Cairo Declaration nor the Potsdam Declaration were ever intended to settle the question of what Chinese government should hold jurisdiction over Taiwan. They have no bearing on the current dispute between the PRC and ROC over Taiwan.

The two declarations were only statements of intention about what would happen to Taiwan after World War II, Bush said.

At that time, the internationally accepted mechanism for transferring territory after a war was through a peace treaty, he said. But in the treaties ending the war in the Pacific (the San Francisco Treaty and the treaty between Japan and the ROC), Japan only gave up ownership of TW; it didnt assign it to any country.

Since either of the declarations were announced, has China controlled Taiwan?

No, it has not.

While the Qing Dynasty maintained jurisdiction and sovereignty over Taiwan from the late 1600s until 1895, the Republic of China has retained full control over Taiwan after Japanese forces on the island surrendered at the end of World War II, Bush says.

Does mainland China hold legal sovereignty over Taiwan?

It depends on whom you ask. To answer such a question, one has to determine what grants a government sovereignty over territory. This is still an open question that is best resolved by the two sides, Bush notes.

One can argue that since the PRC controls much more land and people within the territory that both it and the ROC both formerly claimed, that therefore it ought to hold sovereignty over Taiwan.

Or one can argue that since the ROC was the lawful representative government of China when both the Cairo and Potsdam Declarations were signed - as even the official PRC interpretation of history acknowledges - that therefore, it ought to hold legal sovereignty over Taiwan.

Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou attached great importance to the fact that the Cairo Declaration returned Taiwan to the ROC, even holding a commemorative exhibition during his term of office. (From the Taiwanese Presidential News Archive)







However these are arguable propositions, not facts. To unambiguously claim that the PRC legally represents Taiwan, as PRC officials regularly do, is misleading.

Conclusion

AFCL found Chinese official claims that the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Declaration prove that the territory of Taiwan must eventually be governed by Communist China to be false. The documents made clear that Japan needed to relinquish Taiwan back to the Republic of China. They were never intended to settle the ongoing dispute over who has sovereignty over Taiwan.

China advocates an interpretation of history that promotes its own political goals, and Chinese officials often ignore or omit facts that contradict those interpretations. This is one such case.
Retired Tsinghua professor Guo Yuhua was among a group of high-profile intellectuals who signed an open letter in October 2020 calling for the release of detained publisher Geng Xiaonan.

Border guards have stopped an outspoken former Tsinghua University professor from entering Hong Kong, as authorities in China step up the use of exit bans to prevent dissidents from fleeing overseas, according to a Spain-based human rights group.

Retired Tsinghua sociology professor Guo Yuhua was among a group of high-profile intellectuals who signed an open letter in October 2020 calling for the release of detained publisher Geng Xiaonan, who was herself jailed for three years in February 2021 for "illegal business operations" after she publicly supported Tsinghua colleague and dissident Xu Zhangrun.

Guo and her husband arrived in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong, last month, and were stopped as they tried to cross the internal immigration border into the former British colony of Hong Kong, despite holding a valid travel permit.

"They stopped her and said she wasn't allowed to leave," Beijing-based independent journalist Gao Yu told Radio Free Asia. "When she asked why, they showed her a document issued by the Beijing municipal police department placing an exit ban on her."

"She believes that ... [this] is unreasonable and illegal," Gao said, adding that the exit ban is a form of "political persecution" wielded by the ruling Chinese Communist Party.

Repeated calls to Guo's mobile number went unconnected during office hours on Monday.

Exposing injustice

Gao said Guo's public support for Xu Zhangrun could have been the reason for the ban.

"She has always espoused universal values [like freedom and democracy] and has exposed a lot of injustice in China," Gao said. "She was the only person at Tsinghua to speak up in support of Xu Zhangrun, and was hauled in by [university authorities] for it."

Beijing-based rights lawyer Wang Yu said she is in a similar situation.

"Anyone they see as being harmful to the system will be persecuted in various ways, despite the fact that all we ever wanted was to help this country develop in a good direction," Wang said.

Guo's travel ban comes days after China amended its Counter-Espionage Law to enable the use of exit bans on both Chinese and foreign nationals being investigated on "national security" charges, or on Chinese nationals deemed a "potential threat to national security" if they are allowed to go overseas.

"Anyone they see as being harmful to the system will be persecuted in various ways, despite the fact that all we ever wanted was to help this country develop in a good direction," says Beijing-based rights lawyer Wang Yu. Credit: Provided by Wang Yu





While bans on nonessential travel featured heavily during the stringent lockdowns, mass quarantines and compulsory testing of the zero-COVID policy, which ended in December 2022 following nationwide protests, restrictions remain in place for many critics of the ruling Communist Party.

Border guards in the southern province of Guangdong, home to some of the highest-volume border crossings in China, have prevented a number of rights activists from leaving in recent weeks.

Chinese rights lawyers Tang Jitian and activist Guo Feixiong were both prevented from leaving China to take care of dying next-of-kin.

Changing the laws

According to a recent report by the Spain-based rights group Safeguard Defenders, last week's legal amendments were the latest in a slew of changes to 15 laws, allowing the widespread use of exit bans, the report said.

"In the absence of transparent official data and excluding ethnicity-based exit bans, which number in the millions, we estimate that at least tens of thousands of people in China are placed on exit bans at any one time," the report found.

"Many of these exit bans are illegitimate and violate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights principle of Freedom of Movement."

Rights activists, family members of Chinese dissidents overseas, Tibetans, Uyghurs and other ethnic groups and foreign journalists have all been targeted by the measures in recent years.

"Safeguard Defenders calls on China to urgently [and] immediately annul all exit bans issued on the basis of ethnic group, [human rights] activities, family ties and for any other reason that is neither necessary nor proportionate," the group said in a statement launching the report.

Former government censor Liu Lipeng said there is a growing atmosphere of xenophobia under supreme leader Xi Jinping, and that Beijing's overseas influence and disinformation campaigns have led some to become trapped back in China despite being permanent residents of the United States.

"There were rumors in Chinese circles in the United States that there was no risk in going back to China for certain people who had applied for political asylum," Liu told Radio Free Asia in a recent interview.

But when some people went back for a visit based on this assumption, they had their passports confiscated by the authorities, he said.

"They can't leave [China] now, despite having a green card," Liu said. "This is very, very worrying to hear."

Risky visits

Liu said the anti-spying law is so vaguely worded that even visiting a website outside of the Great Firewall of government blocks and censorship could fall under "threats to national security," and attract an exit ban.

He recommended the use of a separate phone for visiting overseas websites using a virtual private network tool, which are banned in China.

"If you are interviewed, they will probably tell you to hand over your electronic devices, and you just give them the phone without VPN, which will be much safer," Liu said.

According to Safeguard Defenders, China targets a wide range of people with exit bans, including criminal suspects, military personnel, ethnic-religious groups, foreign journalists, party and state officials under investigation for graft, their family members, and anyone caught up in a civil dispute.

Tibetans and Uyghurs have been subject to exit bans and tight controls on passport applications since 2002, according to the New York-based Human Rights Watch.

A document leaked in 2019 revealed that applying for a passport was listed as a potential reason to send a person to one of Xinjiang's mass incarceration camps.

"Such ethnic or region-based exit bans are clearly racist and have no legal basis under Chinas domestic law," Safeguard Defenders said.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
The Biden-Harris administration is determined to expand legal pathways for migration to the United States and prevent people from taking the dangerous journey to the border.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Myorkas recently outlined a series of measures in support of this goal.

One of them is the establishment of Regional Processing Centers in select locations. The first such centers will open in Colombia and Guatemala. Secretary Blinken praised the two countries as excellent partners:

These centers will be operated by international organization partners and improve qualified individuals access to accelerated refugee resettlement processing, family reunification, and labor pathways in the United States. They will also be a referral point for lawful pathways as well, as well as humanitarian and refugee protections in other countries, like Canada and Spain.

Homeland Security Secretary Myorkas noted that another way to expand legal pathways is to streamline the long-established family reunification parole processes for Cubans and Haitians so that individuals from these countries with approved family-based petitions can more quickly reunite with their families in the United States.

Third, I have directed my team to develop family reunification processes that will extend this well-recognized model to certain individuals from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Colombia, he said.



Fourth, through the successful Customs and Border Protection One mobile app, people will be able to schedule more appointments at ports of entry. The Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela parole processes, as well as the corresponding returns to Mexico for those without a legal basis to remain, will continue, said Homeland Security Secretary Myorkas. At the same time, we are imposing consequences for individuals who do not use our lawful pathways.

Those consequences include a five-year ban on admission to the U.S, and the possibility of criminal prosecution for any subsequent attempt to cross the border illegally.

Let me be clear, said Homeland Security Secretary Myorkas, Our border is not open.

The approach of the Biden-Harris administration is focused on making migrations more safe, orderly and humane, and on advancing the interests of the American people, declared Secretary of State Blinken.

He also underscored the importance of working with our regional partners. There is a mission...at the heart of the migration challenge, Secretary Blinken said. How can we all work together, as we are, to provide the foundation for better, more secure and more hopeful futures for all our citizens?
Only 6 countries have made climate-tackling laws, according to a new report.

Barges fully loaded with coal are anchored on the Mahakam River in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia, Dec. 19, 2022.

Most Asia-Pacific countries are insufficiently prepared to face extreme weather events and natural disasters, which are growing in intensity and frequency due partly to climate change, according to a new study by a United Nations regional commission.

While the region suffers the worst consequences of climate change, it is also a key perpetrator  accounting for over half of the worlds greenhouse gas emissions  said the Bangkok-based U.N. Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), releasing its Race to Net Zero report Monday.

Over the past 60 years, temperatures in the Asia-Pacific region have increased faster than the global mean.

Six of the top 10 countries most affected by these disasters are in the Asia-Pacific region, where food systems are disrupted, economies damaged, and societies undermined, ESCAP said.

The average annual economic losses across the region caused by natural and biological hazards are estimated at U.S.$780 billion, which is forecast to rise to $1.1 trillion in a moderate climate-change scenario and $1.4 trillion in a worst-case scenario, according to Mondays report.

The Asia-Pacific countries lack the sizable financial means to support adaptation and mitigation efforts and the data necessary to inform climate action. At the same time, existing infrastructure and services are insufficiently climate resilient, the report said.

U.N. Under-Secretary-General Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, executive secretary of ESCAP, said the case for regional climate action in Asia and the Pacific is clear.

In fact, just last month, the severe heat waves we experienced here in Bangkok and throughout the country have been described as the worst April heatwaves in Asian history, Alisjahbana said at the reports launch.

These extreme temperatures also affected other countries such as Bangladesh, China, India, and Lao PDR  Climate change puts our regions sustainable development in jeopardy.

A worker inspects solar panels at a solar Dunhuang, 950km (590 miles) northwest of Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China on Sep. 16, 2013. Credit: Reuters

The report will guide and inform the 79th session of ESCAP next week, focusing on accelerating climate action for the first time.

According to a March report by the U.N.-related Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the Asia-Pacific region accounted for 57% of global emissions from fuel combustion in 2020, three-fifths of which was generated from coal.

The emissions have more than doubled since 1990, driven by the electricity and heating, manufacturing and construction, and transport sectors, ESCAP said.

According to the U.N. report, 85% of Asia and the Pacifics primary energy supply comes from fossil fuels, while 60% of the regions energy-related CO2 emissions come from coal and one-third from gas and oil.

The report said that to limit temperature rises to 1.5C, oil and gas must be radically phased down by 2050 and coal wholly phased out.

27% of Asia and the Pacifics CO2 emissions are from the transport sector. Overall transport emissions increased by 200% over the past 30 years, while transport demand is forecast to increase by 150% between 2015 and 2050 in the region.

Three-fourths of global emissions in manufacturing/construction are from the region, ESCAP said.

Only six countries have laws to tackle climate challenges

A large majority of 49 countries in the Asia-Pacific region have already made carbon neutrality pledges by 2022, with commitments varying from achieving carbon neutrality or net-zero carbon dioxide, to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century.

ESCAP said the sum of countries actions to cut emissions and adapt to climate change falls short of the required ambition.

The report said a 16% increase by 2030 in greenhouse gas emissions from 2010 levels is forecast instead of the 45% reduction needed to keep warming within 1.5 degrees.

Sangmin Nam, director of the environment and development division at ESCAP, said the Asia-Pacific region lacked regional cooperation to really speed up the action under the Paris Agreement, unlike the European Union or the African Union.

We dont have such [a] regional party or regional cooperation. So, with this report, we try to identify some areas where regional cooperation, especially that can be supported by ESCAP.

Nam said that while there are hundreds or thousands of climate priorities, one of the key elements is for the countries to develop policies of their low carbon or net zero targets.

While 40 countries have already committed to a low carbon or net zero target, only six countries so far have developed their national laws accordingly, Nam told Radio Free Asia, citing Australia, Fiji, Japan, Maldives, New Zealand, and South Korea.

Tourists ride horses near Wind turbines on the grassland in Zhangbei county, in north China's Hebei province, Aug. 15, 2022. Credit: AP

China, the worlds largest greenhouse gas emitter, has committed to a 2060 target for carbon neutrality and has developed a policy guidance document with no legal provisions.

It means countries need to develop internal regulations and policies, he said.

Huda Ali Shareef, Maldives deputy ambassador to Thailand, said climate change impacts on the economies of the Pacific and small island developing states, and other lesser developed countries, are expected to be very high due to their ecological fragility.

We need to strengthen multi-hazard early warning systems for everyone, and especially the focus on the communities that are most at risk, she said, adding that such a system should facilitate regional cooperation.

Maldives is one of the lowest-lying countries in the world, facing an existential threat due to climate change, even though its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is only 0.003% in the global share, she said.

The Maldives is proud to be one of the six Asia Pacific countries, who has adopted a law on carbon neutrality, she said.On energy transition, Maldives will increase renewable energy share to 15% in the energy mix by 2030.

However, she added that Maldives carbon neutrality pledge by 2030 depends on the level of international support received.

Least developed countries and small island developing states in the region have received zero climate-related foreign direct investment since 2011, she said.

Edited by Mike Firn.
The plant will export electricity to Vietnam and is the countrys latest power venture.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Monsoon Wind Power project in Sekong and Attapeu provinces, Laos, April 2023.

The largest wind power project in Southeast Asia is now under construction in southern Laos, the latest power generation project in the impoverished, landlocked country.

Laos government has an ambitious goal of becoming the battery of Southeast Asia by generating electricity and selling it to neighboring countries. The plant in Sekong and Attapeu provinces will have a generation capacity of 600 megawatts and will export electricity to Vietnam.

Dam projects in Laos  two have already been built on the Mekong River and several more have been proposed  have engendered controversy because of their environmental impacts and effect on villagers.

But the wind project likely wont result in any relocations of villagers, an official with the Monsoon Wind Power Lao Company Ltd. told Radio Free Asia.

It looks like there wont be too much of an impact on local people, she said. They can still live there.

The company broke ground on the U.S.$950 million project in late April. The project covers a concession area of around 1,000 hectares (2,500 acres) and will have 133 wind turbines.

Some land affecting 340 families in 18 villages has already been taken, including land for electrical transmission lines. Sekong provincial authorities have finished the process of survey and data collection and are expected to pay out compensation to villagers soon, the official said.

Basic infrastructure for villages

The project site is located in a hilly area with limited forest and limited land use, some 1,200-1,600 meters above sea level, according to Monsoon Wind Power.

Only some parts of agricultural land will be lost to the project, a provincial environmental official said. No houses and buildings will be affected. There will be some trees that need to be cut down.

Villagers are still waiting for what they call fair compensation and also expect project owners to develop basic infrastructure for the affected villages, a villager in Sekong provinces Dak Cheung district told RFA.

The relevant authorities have to keep their eye on this matter, he said. Once the project owners construct the fence along their project site, we will not be able to raise our livestock in that area and we will not make our living as we used to. We ask that our interests be protected.

Monsoon Wind Power is a joint venture with Impact Energy Asia Development Limited, where it is registered as a corporation in Thailand. Another investor is Power Construction Corporation of China, a Chinese state enterprise.

Translated by Phouvong. Edited by Matt Reed.
Democracy advocates in Myanmar are calling on three international beermakers to pull out of the country, alleging that taxes they pay to the military junta support crimes against humanity.

The covert activist group Justice for Myanmar last month released a report that implicated Heineken, Carlsberg, and Thai Beverage, all of which have operated in Myanmar after the Feb. 1, 2021 coup. Their tax payments have collectively amounted to U.S.$155 million.

Paying taxes to people who commit war crimes is directly participating in those crimes and therefore the large foreign companies have to decide if they will continue to participate in the crimes of the military council or stop paying taxes, Justice for Myanmar spokesperson Yadanar Maung told RFAs Burmese Service.

A young woman from Yangon, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, told RFA that any beer brand that supports the junta must be boycotted.

"Before the coup, I only drank Myanmar Beer brand. But after the coup, Myanmar Beer had to be completely boycotted, so I switched to other brands, she said. Now, if Heineken, which is the most popular drink in the market, has been added to the boycott list, we have to choose from other options.

Every company that cooperates with the junta should pull out from Myanmar as soon as possible as they must be held responsible and accountable, Me Htet Nay of the Nyan Lynn Thit Analytica political research and rights group told RFA.

I understand that companies with big investments have to pay a lot of money in taxes, so they have more responsibility for the oppression of the people.  It is best in their interests that they leave, said Me Htet Nay.

He said that the juntas sources of income should be cut off as it spends most of the tax money on the military budget that oppresses the people.

Japanese-owned Kirin Company, which had been working with Myanmar beer, sold its shares and left Myanmar in 2022, a year after the military coup.

Domestic boycott

Pro-democracy activists are already boycotting products produced by military enterprises, including Andaman Gold beer, Myanmar beer, Mandalay beer, Dagon brand alcohol and beer, and Ruby and Premium Gold cigarettes.

The domestic boycott also extends beyond beer to include Sugar MEC brand sugar, Pure hand sanitizer, Bandoola Transport, Mytel and MEC Tel mobile operators, Shwe Nan Taw jewelry store, Ngwe Pin Lal brand, Star Mart and 547 mini marts, Dentomec toothpaste, and others.

Protesters display placards urging to boycott products linked to the Myanmar military during a protest in Yangon, Feb. 2021. Credit: Citizen Journalist

Since the boycott, sales of Myanmar Beer have halved from $11 million in revenue before the coup to just over $5 million within a year of the coup, the company's records show.

A liquor store owner in Sagaing, who refused to be named for security reasons, told RFA that the demand for domestic beer has cratered.

"In the past, we used to sell Myanmar beer a lot when it was available. Now there is no demand for it anymore, he said. No one asks for Myanmar beer these days. Myanmar beer is not transported to our areas anymore.

The boycott has been extended to the three international breweries, but consumers may find it difficult to target them because they produce more than their main brand in Myanmar.

"I don't sell Heineken either. I only sell Chang, Tiger, and ABC beer mainly, said the liquor store owner.

Netherlands-based Heineken N.V. produces not only Heineken, but also ABC, Tiger, Regal Seven and Bawdar beer in Myanmar.

Meanwhile the Danish Carlsberg Group makes Carlsberg, Yoma, Tuborg and Black Eagle Stout. ThaiBev, meanwhile, sells several different whiskey brands in Myanmar.

Tax revenues

The three companies alone paid around $27.6 million in special goods taxes to the junta between October and December 2021, Justice for Myanmar reported. They additionally paid $7 million in income taxes over the same three-month period.

Neither Heineken nor ThaiBev responded to RFAs email inquiries regarding the accusations.

A waiter carries a tower of military-owned Myanmar beer in Yangons 19th street, Dec. 8, 2015. Credit: Soe Zeya Tun/Reuters

Carlsberg responded to RFA that all of its subsidiaries are subject to local laws in all the markets in which they operate.

This means that, like any other company, we are obliged to pay taxes and duties, whether in Myanmar, Denmark or any other market, the company said.

Carlsberg also said it had a positive impact on Myanmars economy, employing 430 people and supporting 30,000 jobs as a result of its presence there. The Danish brewer said it is in a joint venture with the local MGS Breweries, and that its partner has no direct commercial links to sanctioned entities and individuals.

We take respect for human rights in Myanmar extremely seriously. Our human rights programme follows the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP). This work is ongoing and includes concrete efforts to prevent, address and remedy human rights abuses connected to our value chain, said Carlsberg, adding that it conducts human rights due diligence.

Destroying product

Opponents of the coup that have organized into armed Peoples Defense Forces often target shipments of products made by military-owned companies, and destroy it before it gets to market.

Because of their actions, the transport and sale of military-produced alcohol, beer and other products have become almost non-existent, said Kyak Kyee, a soldier of 703 Battalion of the Peoples Defense Force based in Magway.

We discovered boycott products such as Myanmar and Dagon beer, Ruby and Premium Gold cigarettes a lot in the beginning of the revolution, he said. We warned those who transport them and made them sign a pledge not to do it again. We burn and destroy the products right in front of the people. Currently, there are no military-produced goods in our regions. Such goods are no longer found in our checkpoints, either.

RFA attempted to reach junta spokesperson Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, regarding these issues, but phone calls went unanswered.

Min Lwin Oo, who is in charge of the mobilization sub-committee of the Democracy Movement Strike Committee (Dawei), said that refusing to buy products made by military companies is a valid way to weaken the military.

Just as a retired American military professor said, we are in a difficult position to confront the military junta on the military front alone, he said. If we can demolish the economic pillars of the military, it will weaken the military junta. I think [it] is a very effective method for the revolution.

On the other hand, he pointed out that people may be faced with a shortage of job opportunities, because of the domination of military-related businesses, and the boycott would leave them with fewer choices and rising product prices, when large international companies pull out from Myanmar.

Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Eugene Whong.
But Indonesian president says ASEANs efforts to bring peace to Myanmar will continue.

UPDATED at 4:50 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2023.

Indonesia and Singapore on Monday condemned an armed attack on an ASEAN humanitarian convoy in eastern Myanmars Shan State and called for an end to violence in the strife-hit country.

Diplomats from both Southeast Asian countries were traveling with the convoy that was caught in gunfire on Sunday in Hsihseng township. There were no reports of injuries in the shooting, which the Myanmar military blamed on anti-junta forces. The opposition to the junta denied any involvement.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, said the violence would not deter his country in its efforts as this years chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to try to bring peace to Myanmar.

He was speaking in the Indonesian town of Labuan Bajo ahead of a three-day ASEAN summit which starts Tuesday. The conflict in Myanmar is likely to be one of the main topics of the summit.

This will not diminish ASEANs and Indonesias determination to call for an end to the use of force and violence, Jokowi said. Stop the violence because civilians have become victims. Let us sit together and start a dialogue.

He said that members of the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management (AHA Centre), accompanied by an ASEAN monitoring team was delivering humanitarian aid but unfortunately there was a shootout on the way. He gave no further details.

'Constructive dialogue'



Singapores Foreign Ministry said that two staff of the Singaporean Embassy were in the convoy and had returned safely to Yangon.

Singapore condemns this attack. It is critical to safeguard the safety of humanitarian and diplomatic personnel, to ensure that they can continue their operations and provide necessary aid to those in need, an unnamed ministry spokesperson said in a statement that urged all parties to refrain from violence.

Only constructive dialogue among all key stakeholders in Myanmar can facilitate a peaceful solution in the interests of the people of Myanmar, the spokesperson said.

There were also two diplomats from the Embassy of Indonesia, three AHA Centre officials and several junta administrative workers in the convoy, according to local residents, who did not want to be named for safety reasons.

Myanmars junta, which took power in a February 2021 coup that has precipitated fighting across large swathes of the country, blamed terrorists for the attack. It said one security vehicle was hit by small arms fire. It said that security forces of the convoy opened fire in response and the attackers retreated.

The convoy was heading to the Hsihseng-based Pa-O National Liberation Army (PNLO) Liaison Office from the Shan State capital of Taunggyi to discuss assistance for internally displaced persons (IDPs) but was forced to turn back, the residents said.

Conflicting accounts

There were conflicting accounts of who opened fire on the convoy, which was traveling in an area where rival forces operate.

An official from the Pa-O National Organization (PNO), which is allied to the junta, claimed that five members of the rival PNLO had launched the attack. The official did not want to be named, citing security reasons.

But PNLO leader Khun Okkar denied it. He said some of the groups own officials were in the convoy so it had no motive to carry out the attack. It was impossible that PNLO attacked its own officials, Khun Okkar told RFA Burmese.

This incident was caused by a political rivalry in our region, he said, suggesting that a local militia allied to the junta was responsible, but declining to name it.

The PNLO itself is party to a 2015 national ceasefire agreement reached with a previous pro-military government in Myanmar.

Naing Htoo Aung, secretary of the Ministry of Defense in the anti-junta National Unity Government, also claimed pro-junta militia were to blame.

He told the NUGs news agency that the NUG, PDF and revolutionary forces had absolutely nothing to do with the attack on the convoy carrying the diplomats. PDF stands for Peoples Defense Force  the name used by militia forces across Myanmar that are battling the military.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said Friday her country has been quietly engaging with the State Administration Council  as the junta regime is formally known  along with the NUG and ethnic armed organizations in its role as ASEAN chair this year.

She said the more than 60 engagements this year, which also included talks with the European Union, Japan, the United Nations and the United States, aimed to build trust with non-megaphone diplomacy.

While ASEAN leaders are expected to discuss Myanmar at this weeks summit, junta leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing is not invited. Hes been excluded from ASEAN summits following his military takeover against a civilian government, which has triggered protests then blood fighting that has displaced hundreds of thousands of people from their homes.

Two years ago, ASEANs agreed upon a five-point plan to bring peace to Myanmar but its terms have been largely ignored by the junta.

The Indonesian president said Monday that ASEAN may struggle to get buy-in from the junta but he wasnt giving up hope.

The situation in Myanmar is complex and Indonesia continues to push for the implementation of the five-point consensus. Various efforts have been made, Jokowi said.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn and Mat Pennington.

BenarNews journalist Ahmad Syamsudin in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia, contributed to this report.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service.

This story has been updated to clarify the description of the PNLO.
Bangladesh-based Rohingya who were taken to Myanmars Rakhine state Friday to see preparations for refugee repatriation said they wouldnt return without citizenship rights, recognition of their Rohingya identity, and a guarantee that they could resettle in their home villages.

Twenty Rohingya and seven Bangladeshi government officials traveled to Maungdaw township in northern Rakhine, where the Burmese junta had invited them to inspect preparations as part of a China-backed effort to repatriate a small portion of the 1 million Rohingya refugees sheltering in southeastern Bangladesh.

The delegation boarded a boat in the morning to cross the Naf River that separates Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar district from Rakhine, and returned on Friday evening.

Speaking to RFA-affiliated news service BenarNews when they got back, some Rohingya delegates expressed concern about temporary housing constructed in guarded camps. The group reached Maungdaw at around 10 a.m. and visited the Nagpura, Baulibazar and Kazirbil neighborhoods where Myanmar authorities have built makeshift camps with Chinese support.

After many years, we got the chance to see our motherland. We visited Myanmar and we saw new camps there, Rohingya Mohammad Selim told BenarNews. We asked them  why the camps and for whom? They replied those were for us.

Selim said the Rohingya want to return to their original homesteads, adding they did not find the camps to be safe.

About 740,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh from Rakhine following a Myanmar military crackdown against the Muslim-minority group in August 2017.

We asked them what would happen to us if we do not get citizenship or if our safety is not guaranteed. In reply they said we must take national verification cards, he said. If we accept the card, it will mean that we are guests, but we are the residents, not guests.

He said if Rohingya are not granted citizenship, they would not be able to own land in Myanmar.

We have demanded that they return our homesteads and land. We will build our own houses on our land  unless we are given citizenship and our homesteads back, we will not return, he said.

A delegation of Bangladesh government officials and Rohingya leave for Myanmars Rakhine state from the Teknaf Jetty in Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh, May 5, 2023.

Abdur Rahman/BenarNews





Another Rohingya, Abu Sufian, echoed Selims concerns.

We visited many villages in Maungdaw. The Myanmar government built many IDP camps in the villages. In these circumstances, I do not see any possibility of returning there, he told BenarNews, referring to camps for internally displaced persons.

Myanmars military council announced that 750 plots of land in 15 villages in the northern part of Maungdaw township had been prepared for the Rohingya repatriation. It announced that returnees were to be scrutinized and accepted before temporarily being placed in refugee camp for two months.

Rohingya Subia Khatun, who fled to Coxs Bazar following the military crackdown, said she visited her old village.

My green village has been converted into a fortified camp. I feel bad to see the makeshift houses. We will not go to the camps  we want to live in our villages, Khatun told BenarNews.

Repatriation efforts

In recent months, Myanmar has shown interest in repatriating some Rohingya under a small pilot project.

A Myanmar delegation recently visited Teknaf in Bangladesh and identified more than 1,100 Rohingya for potential repatriation.

According to the agreement between the two countries, repatriation must be safe, voluntary and dignified. No Rohingya can be sent back forcibly.

The arrangement is not bad at all. The enclaves are not IDP camps, Mohammed Mizanur Rahman, Bangladeshs refugee relief and repatriation commissioner who led the delegation to Rakhine on Friday, told BenarNews.

The trip was for building the confidence of the Rohingya. A team from the Myanmar government is supposed to come to discuss issues, then we will decide about the repatriation.

Temporary housing constructed for Rohingya is seen in Rakhine states Maungdaw township during a visit by a delegation from Bangladesh, May 5, 2023. Courtesy: members of the Rohingya delegation





Aung Kyaw Moe, who advises Myanmars shadow National Unity Government (NUG) on Rohingya issues, questioned the military councils repatriation efforts and said the refugees should focus on getting justice for the genocide they suffered.

Hundreds of Rohingya were killed by the military during clearance operations in 2017, forcing thousands to leave. The U.S. State Department has declared this is an act of genocide.

The military junta has never had a good intention or goodwill toward the Rohingya. Nor will they have any in the future, he told RFA.

Aung Kyaw Moe said the Myanmar military had failed in persuading Rohingya to return.

They tried many times in the past, too but they did not succeed because the Rohingya have firsthand experience of the juntas genocide against them and its inhumane violation of human rights and crimes against humanity. Thats why they will never come back unless justice is served for them.

Nay San Lwin, co-founder of the Rohingya Liberation Coalition, said China had a big role in the repatriation effort.

The military cannot refuse Chinas pressure. On the other hand, some of Chinas largest investments are in Bangladesh, too, he told RFA. Both countries are under a lot of pressure from China, therefore, they are trying to make this repatriation project happen due to Chinas pressure.

Spokesmen for the Myanmar junta and Rakhine state did not respond to RFA requests for comment.

Kamran Reza Chowdhury for BenarNews in Dhaka contributed to this report.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service.
Tibetan director Pema Tseden arrives at the 55th Golden Horse Awards in Taipei, Taiwan, Nov. 17, 2018. He had been nominated for Best Director for the film Jinpa.

Award-winning Tibetan filmmaker Pema Tseden, best-known for Jinpa and Balloon and admired by both Chinese and Tibetans for his work showing the living conditions of Tibetans, died in Lhasa on Monday, several sources told Radio Free Asia. He was 53.

He died of heart failure, a source close to Tseden said. He was staying in the Maldro Gongkar area of Lhasa where he was working on a film, the source said.

Films directed by Tseden received awards at the Busan Asia International Film Festival and Taiwan Film Festival and were translated into Chinese, Japanese and English.

Under the difficult situation in Tibet, and with very few Tibetan filmmakers in exile, Pema Tseten took the responsibility of making films based on the real situation in Tibet and on the changes taking place, said Tenzin Sonam, a Tibetan filmmaker based in Dharamsala, India.

He has made a remarkable contribution to Tibetan filmmaking and his death is a big loss to the Tibetan community and is sad news to all Tibetans, he said.

His last three completed films, including Tharlo, were all invited to play at the Venice Film Festival, according to Variety.

His earlier films  Silent Prayer Stone and Lakmar  also made a strong imprint on international filmmaking, Sonam said.

Tseden studied film at the Beijing Film Institute. He was the first director to make films entirely in the Tibetan language, but his award-winning work was generally not critical of Chinese rule in the region. In recent years, he was a professor at the China Academy of Arts film school.

Tseden was arrested by police in the western Chinese city of Xinping in 2016 and had to be hospitalized following an interrogation and beating.

Police said in a statement at the time that the filmmaker had gotten into a dispute with security guards at an airport after trying to return to the luggage reclaim hall.

Translated by Rigdhen Dolma. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.


BUDAPEST -- On May 14, 2022, thousands watched as Katalin Novak walked on the red carpet laid in front of the imposing building of the Hungarian parliament. Surrounded by troops dressed in ceremonial garb and horsemen riding white mounts, she took her first steps as the president of the country, cheered on by Hungary's longtime conservative leader, Prime Minister Viktor Orban, and his wife.

Novak was making history. Elected at the age of 44, she is Hungary's youngest-ever president. She is also the first-ever woman to take the role.



Yet Novak, who is a member of Orban's ruling party, Fidesz, is an anomaly in Hungary. Despite her prestigious and mainly ceremonial position, she is surrounded by few women in Hungarian politics. The Hungarian National Assembly, the country's unicameral parliament, is one of the EU's worst in terms of gender balance. Women occupy only one spot in Orban's 14-person cabinet and 13 percent of the seats in parliament, compared to the EU average of 33 percent. Sweden and Finland lead the pack, with 50 percent and 46 percent, respectively.



Critics say the Hungarian prime minister, who has been in power since 2010, has set the tone -- and it's one that isn't especially welcoming to women. "We don't deal with female issues," Orban said in 2017, talking about the sudden dismissal of a female ambassador and the subsequent refilling of the role. "There are a few talented women, who could maybe work out, but I'm not surprised they didn't apply for the role."

One of the deterrents is the abuse female politicians in Hungary receive, often of a sexual or violent nature. Agnes Vadai, a member of parliament, vice president of the opposition Democratic Coalition (DK) party and the current shadow defense minister, mentors young women, including preparing them for how to deal with the inevitable bullying, most of it coming online.

"Once, someone wrote that they would like to wash their hands in my blood," Vadai says, who reported the incident to the police.



Katalin Cseh, a European Parliament deputy from the opposition Momentum party and the vice chair of the centrist Renew Europe group, once received a message that read: "I certainly wouldn't vote for you, but I would come on your face."



"At some point, you get desensitized to it, to protect yourself," Cseh says. "But it's hard to get past the fact that multiple times a day people wish [female politicians] dead or raped, their genitalia mutilated, their parents attacked, and are getting sent unwanted sexual content."



"In the past few years, there was a growing antiwoman sentiment in Hungary -- in public life, too," Cseh adds. "The appointment of the first female president could have been an important precedent, which could be used to highlight important issues, a symbolic stand for female emancipation, gender equality, and in support of women. Yet I think the current president has a different view."

The scarcity of women isn't just an Orban and Fidesz problem, though. It has been a hallmark of Hungarian politics since the fall of communism in 1989.



"There weren't more women in the [National] Assembly before 2010 either," says Burtejin Zorigt, a political scientist and gender studies expert based in Budapest, referring to the year Orban's Fidesz party came into power.



The proportion of women in the National Assembly peaked in 1980, with 30 percent of seats occupied by women. Under communism, men and women, at least in theory, were afforded equal rights. The authorities were keen to increase productivity by expanding the workforce to include more women, helped by state child benefits. Women were encouraged to take highly skilled jobs, such as scientists, doctors, or lawyers, and pressure was put on employers to hire them. Politics was no exception.



In a 2013 research paper on women's representation in the Hungarian parliament, Reka Varnagy wrote, "While the percentage of women elected to the Hungarian parliament showed a steady increase from 1949 to 1980it only reflected the top-down pressure of a false, equalitarian political facade. The democratization process did not contribute to the increased inclusion of women in political decision making."



After the fall of Hungary's communist regime in 1989, the number of women in parliament decreased rapidly. In the first free elections, held in May 1990, women received only 7 percent of the seats, which, according to Varnagy, was a reflection of "the lack of political commitment to ensure a critical level of women's representation."

There were no female members of cabinet in 1992-1994, 2009-2010, or 2014-2018. The postcommunist peaks for gender equality were the years 2002, 2006, and 2018. In 2002 and 2006, three women occupied ministerial positions in the leftist government. In 2018, there were three female ministers at the beginning of Orban's third consecutive term. Only one of them, Justice Minister Judit Varga, has stayed on in the current government.



To address the lack of women in politics, there have been several initiatives to introduce legal quotas, although according to Varnagy, "these failed due to insufficient social mobilization and lack of political will."



Reka Safrany from the Hungarian Women's Lobby, the local branch of the European Women's Lobby, which promotes gender equality and human rights for women, says that during socialism "having women in these positions was mandatory, which has resulted in most parties [now] not viewing quotas as a possibility, although that is the best-working temporary solution."



"In the majority of European countries, gender quotas are already applied in some form -- [in] the parties with the selection of candidates and in the compilation of [party electoral] lists," Cseh says. "The increase in the number of women in the European Parliament is also largely related to [quotas]. There are legal obligations that leave no loopholes for those who do not wish to enforce equality, so [quotas are] definitely a powerful tool."

Bernadett Bakos, a deputy from Hungary's Green Party (LMP), is the youngest member of the National Assembly. She says her party has quotas in place to make sure women participate at various levels, however, they are still falling short on gender equality. "Among people [working in politics, but not politicians], there are more women, but they take on anonymous, smaller jobs, not public-facing ones," she says.

In the DK shadow government, less than 20 percent of its members are women, despite the party adhering to a 30 percent quota in other areas. "I don't think quotas are enough," says DK politician Vadai. "[Quotas are just the] basis that creates opportunities for women who are interested in politics, that encourages them to take on a political role at the local or national level. But further support is required," she says.



RFE/RL reached out to all female members of the National Assembly across all parliamentary parties. Fidesz politicians replied in one e-mail, declining to comment. Representatives of the right-wing Jobbik and Our Homeland Movement parties, and the opposition Hungarian Socialist Party-Dialogue alliance, did not respond.



With a relatively small number of advocates in parliament, issues affecting women in Hungary are often given short shrift.



"Women rarely reach the same wages as men," says gender expert Safrany. "We see this in terms of hourly wages in the long term and in pensions, as well. And I think the government's family policies don't encourage women's economic independence, either."

In Hungary, the gender pay gap is at 17.3 percent, with women with children performing worse than those without. This is on par with Finland (16.7 percent), Germany (18.3 percent), and Switzerland (18.4 percent) but below the EU average of 13.0 percent.



Due to Hungary's thick glass ceiling, the share of women on supervisory boards or boards of directors of large corporations is 10.5 percent, a third of the EU average at 31.6 percent.

LMP deputy Bakos, who has a degree in engineering, has campaigned against the glass ceiling and other issues such as period poverty -- the lack of access among some segments of the population to menstrual hygiene products. Does she feel she needs to? "Absolutely," she says. "Exactly because there are so few of us, we need to deal with issues like this. Period poverty is a great example. It probably wouldn't even cross the minds of men. So we have to make these issues visible, understandable."



Bakos's campaign proposed the abolishment of taxes on period products, which are currently the highest in the EU. But the March proposal faced a backlash from both male and female members of parliament and was ultimately outvoted. That didn't come as a surprise to Bakos. "[Men] don't necessarily understand why it's important. Someone told me we should also fund men's diapers for their wet dreams," she says.



At least in the eyes of Hungary's ruling party, Fidesz, not all women are created equal. Those who have recently climbed to the higher rungs of the political ladder in Hungary, such as President Novak or Justice Minister Varga, are Fidesz women through and through. Both Novak and Varga are mothers of three children and avid campaigners for what Fidesz defines as "traditional families." For the party faithful, that means heterosexual, Christian, and preferably with multiple children.



"In seven days, I probably bake five times," Novak says, standing next to a massive kitchen table along with her husband and three children, all beaming at the camera. The video was filmed for the Family Magic series made by a nonprofit organization sponsored by Fidesz.

As part of Hungary's campaign against so-called gender ideologies, Orban's government has a program encouraging "traditional families" that offers financial support to buy seven-seater vehicles, tax exemptions, and interest-free loans, which Novak, as the former families minister, has strongly endorsed. When contacted by RFE/RL, Novak's office said the president had a full schedule and would not be able to comment.



For Hungary's women, there are, however, a few glimmers of hope -- especially in local politics, where women are better represented. On average, in Budapest's district administrations, around 25 percent of the local politicians are women, with the city's 20th district leading the pack with 47 percent. Across the country, 646 of 3,170 municipalities (20 percent) are led by female mayors. In the larger county administrations, 18 percent of seats in assemblies are held by women.



Speaking at the annual meeting of the UN's Commission on the Status of Women in New York in April 2022, Novak said that "In the Westernworld, women today have similar chances to succeed as men."



At least regarding politics in Hungary, that is not a sentiment shared by many other women. While nationwide the number of women in politics is steadily growing, those changes aren't being seen in the national parliament or government, says women's advocate Safrany. "The more power a position has, the smaller the chance that a woman will get it," she says. "Women are more likely to stay in local politics."



"Despite the parties and ideologies, the political elite is closed off," says gender expert Zorigt. "There may be female candidates, but the most important positions will be shared among the men."
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy marked the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe by saying his nation will be victorious over Russia as the Kremlin-connected head of a Russian paramilitary group claimed his forces were inching forward in the fiercely contested town of Bakhmut.

Zelenskiy submitted a bill to parliament officially marking May 9 as Europe Day in Ukraine, while Victory Day, May 8, would be celebrated as a "day of remembrance and victory over Nazism." The move is a snub to Russia, which invaded Ukraine to prevent it from integrating with Europe.

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 in Ukraine, click here.

Russia and other former Soviet countries celebrate the end of World War II on May 9, while Europe celebrates it a day earlier.

Zelenskiy said in a video statement on May 8 that Russian forces invading his country would be defeated with the help of Western allies just like Nazi Germany was beaten in World War II.

"We destroyed evil together, in the same way as we are now standing together against a similar evil," he said in a direct reference to Russia and its unprovoked invasion.

"Together with all of free Europe, we will mark May 9 in Ukraine as Europe Day -- [the day] of a united Europe, the basis of which should be and will be peace; [a day] of our Europe," Zelenskiy said. "Ukraine has always been, is, and will be a part of [this Europe]."

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, claiming the Eastern European country is part of the Russian world and that Ukrainians and Russians are one people.

Putin has used Russia's May 9 Victory Day celebrations in recent years to promote his argument that Ukraine is gripped by fascism similar to that of Nazi Germany. The accusation is viewed by Kyiv and its allies as a baseless claim used as another pretext for Russia's invasion.

More than 20 Russian cities have canceled Victory Day parades this year, while celebrations in Moscow have been scaled back. Some experts have speculated that Russia is worried about possible social unrest as citizens remember family members killed or severely injured in the war in Ukraine.

IN PHOTOS: Kyiv's military command says it shot down 35 suicide drones and 16 missiles used to attack Ukrainian territory overnight on May 8 as Ukrainian intelligence warned about the possibility of Russian provocations on the occasion of May 9.

Russia has suffered about 200,000 casualties by some estimates during the 14-month war and continues to lose dozens a day in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, the wars hot spot. Russia has been besieging Bakhmut in the Donetsk region since last summer and has yet to take the city.

The Russian assault is being led by Wagner mercenaries. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner Group, had blamed a lack of ammunition for his groups inability to capture Bakhmut and just days ago threatened to pull out of the city if it did not soon arrive. On May 8, he said his forces have begun to receive more supplies.

Ukrainian intelligence has warned about the possibility of Russian provocations on the occasion of May 9, and Kyiv's military command said it shot down 35 suicide drones and 16 missiles used to attack Ukrainian territory ahead of the events.

The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said in its morning update on May 8 that "the enemy again attacked the territory of Ukraine, using Iranian Shahed attack drones," claiming "35 out of 35 drones were destroyed by our defenders."

It said the missile strikes targeted the regions of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolayiv, and Odesa and inflicted human casualties.



"Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, and high-rise buildings, private homes, and other civilian infrastructure were damaged," the General Staff said.

Earlier, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said five people were injured overnight as a result of a drone strike that damaged buildings and infrastructure.



On May 7, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate warned of Russian "provocations" ahead of the May 9 World War II victory celebrations.



"The enemy often chooses symbolic dates for this," said Andriy Yusov, a representative of the intelligence body, saying Moscow had employed the tactic since its invasion of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula and support for separatists in Ukraine's east in 2014.



"In this situation, provocations can be directed by the Russian special services against the Russian civilian population and timed to certain dates," Yusov said.



Yusov also warned about the possibility of a "false flag" incident that would attempt to draw Belarus into the full-scale war launched by Russia against Ukraine in February 2022.



Ukrainian officials say fighting has intensified in Bakhmut, which Ukrainian and Russian forces have battled over for months, as part of an effort by the Kremlin to capture the eastern Ukrainian city by May 9.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy received vocal backing from Italian leaders in Rome on May 13 as Germany announced a $3 billion military aid package for Kyiv -- the biggest since the start of Russia's unprovoked invasion -- ahead of a visit by the Ukrainian leader to Berlin.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella told Zelenskiy during his visit to Rome that "we are fully at your side." Italian sources said Mattarella later assured the Ukrainian leader that Rome would continue to aid the country with military, economic, and humanitarian assistance.

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 in Ukraine, click here.

The Ukrainian leader later met with 86-year-old Pope Francis at the Vatican, where they discussed aid for the "innocent victims" of the Russian invasion.

Zelenskiy presented the pope with a bulletproof vest that had been used by a Ukrainian soldier and later painted with an image of the Madonna.

"The meeting -- which lasted about 40 minutes -- focused on the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine," the Vatican press service said.

The pontiff last month told reporters that the Vatican was involved in a peace mission to try to end the conflict triggered by Russia's invasion.

But when asked by Italian TV about the popes efforts, Zelenskiy said, "With all respect to the pope, the thing is that we don't need mediators between Ukraine and the aggressor who has occupied our territories, but an action plan for a just peace in Ukraine."

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also hosted Zelenskiy for a working lunch at her official residence at the Chigi Palace in Rome where he was received with military honors.

Speaking beside Zelenskiy, she said that "we are betting on Ukraine's victory," adding that Italy will support Kyiv "for as long as necessary" against Russia's "brutal and unjust aggression."

Zelenskiy's trip came shortly after Russia launched another drone attack on Kyiv and shelled cities in central and southern Ukraine, causing material damage, amid reports of some Ukrainian gains in Bakhmut, where heavy fighting has been under way for months.

In Berlin, the German Defense Ministry announced a new package of military equipment for Ukraine worth 2.7 billion euros ($3 billion), the biggest since Russia's invasion.

"We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight," Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said in a statement.

The package includes 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, 30 Leopard 1 tanks, 15 Gepard antiaircraft tanks, 200 reconnaissance drones, four additional Iris-T antiaircraft systems including ammunition, additional artillery ammunition and more than 200 armored combat and logistics vehicles.

Zelenskiy is scheduled to arrive in Berlin either late on May 13 or early May 14, according to German government sources.

He is expected to meet in the capital with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and also expected travel to the city of Aachen to receive a prestigious award.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called for a speedy delivery of the package as Kyiv is reparing for a long-anticipated counteroffensive.

Kuleba, speaking on May 13 on the sidelines of a meeting with his counterparts from EU countries in Sweden, said Ukraine always needed everything as quickly as possible.

Russia on May 13 claimed its forces had taken control of a section of northwestern Bakhmut amid earlier reports of gains by Ukrainian forces in and around the city -- the scene of brutal fighting in recent months.

"In the Donetsk direction, assault detachments liberated a block in the northwestern part of the city of Artemovsk," the Russian Defense Ministry said, using the Russian name for Bakhmut.

Conflicting battlefield claims around the eastern city have been difficult to independently confirm in recent days.

Oleksandr Syrskiy, commander of Ukrainian ground forces, said earlier on social media that Ukrainian forces were advancing is sectors of the front line against Russian troops near Bakhmut.

"Our soldiers are moving forward in some areas of the front, and the enemy is losing equipment and manpower," Syrskiy said, a day after Ukraine said it had recaptured some territory in the bitterly contested city.

Russia has acknowledged its forces retreated from positions north of Bakhmut, with Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov telling the media that Russian forces "occupied a new frontier" at the Berkhivske reservoir, some 2 kilometers from Bakhmut.

The gains, if confirmed, would be the biggest for Ukraine in six months.

It is unclear if the developments were part of a long-planned counteroffensive.

There also were reports of Ukrainian advances to the south, suggesting a coordinated push by Kyiv to encircle Russian forces in Bakhmut.

Overnight, Kyiv's air defenses shot down all the drones launched by Russia overnight, the capital's military administration reported on May 13, without specifying the number of drones.

There were no reports of damage or casualties, it said. It was the sixth drone attack on Kyiv this month.

In the central city of Khmelnytskiy, people were wounded and critical infrastructure was damaged by Russian shelling overnight, the region's military administration reported early on May 13.

Khmelnytskiy Mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn said schools, medical facilities, administrative buildings, industrial objectives, and high-rise residential buildings were damaged. "The number of wounded is currently being established," he said.

The mayor of the southern city of Mykolayiv, Oleksandr Syenkevych, said three people were wounded in overnight shelling that damaged a factory and several residential buildings.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Russian Service, Reuters, AFP, BBC, and dpa
Welcome to Wider Europe, RFE/RL's newsletter focusing on the key issues concerning the European Union, NATO, and other institutions and their relationships with the Western Balkans and Europe's Eastern neighborhoods.

I'm RFE/RL Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak, and this week I'm drilling down on two major sanctions developments: the EU's attempts to close the loopholes in its Russia sanctions framework and a new initiative to slap restrictive measures on corrupt officials.

Brief #1: How The EU Plans To Crack Down On Sanctions Circumvention

What You Need To Know: One of the most frequently asked questions in Brussels right now when it comes to its ever-growing sanctions on Russia is whether they are efficient. The 10 rounds of restrictive measures imposed on the Kremlin since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 evidently hasn't changed Moscow's willingness to continue the war. In fact, the Russian economy contracted by just 2 percent last year and is even projected to grow a little in 2023, according to International Monetary Fund (IMF) predictions.

The Brussels officials I have spoken to have pointed out that one of the main reasons for the sanctions' apparent lack of bite is that few countries outside the Group of Seven (G7) have actually bothered to impose any meaningful measures on Russia. Those same officials hope that, with some tweaks, the effects of the EU sanctions, notably the measures hitting oil and other raw materials, will be felt more keenly by Russia in the future.

The debate over the sanctions' efficiency is focused on whether the measures are as watertight as they should be and if more can be done to dissuade third countries from circumventing them. Thus, it isn't surprising there is also a push in the EU's next sanctions package on Russia -- due to be presented by the European Commission to the ambassadors of the 27 EU member states this week -- to create an anticircumvention system, close loopholes, and step up enforcement.

Deep Background: According to EU officials familiar with the forthcoming sanctions package who are not authorized to speak on the record, there will be a greater emphasis on stopping third countries -- and their companies -- from circumventing the EU measures. A two-step approach is being mooted in which countries will first receive a warning. If the warning isn't heeded, Brussels will impose sanctions on firms and individuals in these countries.

While the EU hasn't shied away from targeting both Iranian military entities and Dubai-based shipping companies for aiding the Kremlin, this particular move would bring the EU closer to the "secondary sanctions" that the United States is already applying around the globe -- essentially a framework designed to prevent or restrict third countries from trading with countries subject to U.S. sanctions.

While the new EU initiative is far from a done deal, it is telling that in the past few months David O'Sullivan, the EU's envoy on sanctions implementation, has been busy visiting various countries, notably in Central Asia. One of his main talking points is that around 770 parts imported from the EU to other countries have been found in Russian military equipment and weapons used in its war against Ukraine.

Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland have all pointed out that, in 2022, exports of potential dual-use goods -- items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes -- to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan grew more than 62 percent, 83 percent, and 30 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year. Most of these items transit through the Baltic states or Poland from Western European countries such as Germany and the Netherlands.

Drilling Down:

Various EU officials told me that the risk of dual-use goods ending up in Russian hands is high, notably because the three Central Asian states are part of the Eurasian Economic Union together with Russia, meaning items cross borders with fewer checks.

It's likely the EU will add more tech goods to its ever-growing list of sanctioned products, even though at first sight they might not appear to have any military uses. The thinking here is that microchips extracted from refrigerators, microwave ovens, and other kitchen appliances could be used in Russian military equipment.

Although most EU countries include end-user certificates in their export licenses, there is no established instrument to ensure goods make it to an authorized end-user when they leave EU territory. There could, therefore, be a move by Brussels to carry out more end-user checks, which would mean physical inspections at the product's final destination and the requirement of shipment verification certificates from the importing country.

But there are also problems closer to home, such as the various loopholes in the current sanctions framework. Last year, 237 export authorizations for sanctioned dual-use goods to Russia were issued, worth nearly half a billion euros ($550 million). These were issued thanks to derogations in the current restrictive measures that allow certain trade with Moscow to continue.

These derogations can apply to goods that can be proven to be for humanitarian, medical, and pharmaceutical purposes. Current sanctions regulations also allow for the continued export to Russia of products such as consumer communication devices or for goods that ensure "cybersecurity and information security for natural and legal persons, entities, and bodies in Russia, except for its government and undertakings directly or indirectly controlled by that government." It's likely that talks around the next sanctions packages will focus on limiting or reducing these derogations.

There is also a problem with how the Brussels sanctions are communicated to authorities in the member states. Enforcing EU sanctions provisions is a matter for national authorities, not EU officials, so the overall overview of what is and isn't allowed can be anything but uniform as member states often divide those tasks among various institutions -- for instance, the Interior, Foreign, or Justice ministries.

Brief #2: Will The EU Finally Start Sanctioning Corrupt Officials?

What You Need To Know: After several years of debate, the EU has finally taken a decisive step to allow global corruption to be targeted with sanctions. On May 3, the European Commission presented a proposal to allow Brussels to enact restrictive measures against serious acts of corruption. This comes after a key speech last fall by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that called for the use of sanctions to fight corruption as part of EU foreign policy.

In many ways, this proposal could be seen as a European version of the U.S. Global Magnitsky Act from 2016, which allowed Washington to impose sanctions on human rights violators all over the world, including those it deemed responsible for serious corruption.

The main question, though, is whether the framework will be fully embraced by all 27 EU member states. They all need to give the thumbs up and, given previous experience when it comes to Brussels, going after corruption in third countries has never been easy.

Deep Background: The EU currently has 41 sanctions regimes, most pertaining to geographic countries or regions -- for instance, targeting officials and companies in Russia for undermining the territorial integrity of Ukraine or targeting Belarus after the authorities cracked down on the country's opposition.

So far, only two of those sanctions regimes include the legal scope to sanction people for corruption offenses -- Lebanon and the recently created framework for Moldova -- although no one has yet been targeted.

Apart from geographic sanctions, there are also a few sectoral EU sanctions that are global in scope: for example, targeting people who have tried to carry out cyberattacks against the bloc, or the EU's own Global Human Rights Sanctions regime.

The human rights sanctions regime was established in late 2020 and has slapped asset freezes and visa bans on 34 individuals and 15 entities from places such as China, Eritrea, Libya, North Korea, South Sudan, and Russia, in response to acts of genocide, crimes against humanity, slavery, extrajudicial killings, and arbitrary arrests -- in short, similar to the Magnitsky Act. A key difference though: Unlike in the United States, corruption is not a sanctionable offense in the European version.

Drilling Down:

When the EU's human rights sanctions regime was debated by the bloc's foreign ministers in 2018-2019, there wasn't a consensus on adding corruption as a sanctionable offense. (Notably, Hungary pushed against it.) When asked why it wouldn't be better to just add corruption as a sanctionable offense to the already existing human rights framework, an EU official with insight into the matter noted that in talks with various EU member states there was "a clear preference for a standalone [sanctions] regime [rather than] amending the current human rights regime."

One of the fears is that the human rights sanctions regime could be watered down if it were to be redrafted. In recent years, Budapest has threatened to block the rollover of existing sanctions or the adoption of new sanctions in order to further its own interests, notably the release of withheld EU funds.

And it isn't just Hungary that is lukewarm toward anticorruption sanctions. Some other member states, notably in southern Europe, have also expressed reservations by pointing out how far the EU really can go in terms of interfering in what could be classified as domestic issues in third countries.

There are also concerns about obtaining enough credible evidence to impose sanctions. Brussels must go after people and companies via publicly available evidence. Corruption in distant countries can be an opaque business with few solid, available facts.

The European Commission is still hoping all the member states will eventually come on board for at least three main reasons. Firstly, it points out in the draft proposal that "conservative estimates suggest that corruption costs the EU economy at least 120 billion euros per year." It will hammer home the idea that graft undermines the rule of law, democracy, and sustainable development worldwide but also closer to home.

Secondly, this is a foreign policy instrument, which means it's unlikely any EU citizen will be targeted, even though that possibility hasn't been completely excluded. All EU capitals will have a final say on who will be hit with visa restrictions and asset freeze, so it is difficult to imagine there will be a lot of people listed.

And finally, the definition of corruption is rather narrow and could be further narrowed by EU member states in upcoming talks. The European Commission proposal is to only go after people and companies in three categories: firstly, the "active briber," defined as "the promise, offering, or giving to a public official, directly or indirectly, of an undue advantagein order that the official act or refrain from acting in the exercise of his or her official duties; secondly, "passive bribery," which essentially is acceptance by a public official of the above-mentioned "invites"; and lastly, "acts of embezzlement, misappropriation, or other diversion of property by a public official for his or her benefit."

Looking Ahead

The defense chiefs of all 31 NATO members, as well as Sweden, will assemble in Brussels on May 10 for the last meeting of NATO's highest military authority, the Military Committee, before the NATO summit in Vilnius in July. They will take a look at how to strengthen NATO's defense posture, especially in the eastern part of the alliance, ahead of the summit and discuss how to further assist Ukraine, notably with more Western air-defense systems, tanks, and ammunition.

EU foreign ministers will meet in Stockholm on May 12-13 for an informal foreign affairs council. As always when it comes to informal gatherings, which are scheduled twice a year, no concrete decisions will be taken, but the ministers will spend more time discussing long-term relations with various international actors. Expect a lot of time to be devoted to China.

Before the meeting, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell will circulate his thoughts on an updated EU-China policy. The bloc doesn't really have much of a coherent policy vis-a-vis Beijing, due largely to the various EU member states' economic interests, so there will probably be some sort of compromise referring to China as a "rival" in some fields and as a "partner" in others.
For more than seven decades, the U.S. and Philippine forces have trained and fought alongside each other. Today, said Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, were building on those bonds to bring greater security, stability, and prosperity to the Indo-Pacific for the next 70 years and beyond.

The United States and the Philippines reaffirmed that their Mutual Defense Treaty remains the bedrock of their cooperation. This treaty, explained Secretary Austin, applies to armed attacks on either of our armed forces, our aircraft, or public vessels  including our Coast Guard  anywhere in the South China Sea.

Both nations discussed plans to open four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations in Palawan and northern Luzon, said Secretary Austin:

These sites will support combined training exercises and interoperability between our forces to ensure that were even better prepared for future crises.

By the end of fiscal year 2023 the United States expects to have allocated more than $100 million in infrastructure investments at the new and existing Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites. Those investments will spur job creation and economic growth in local Philippine communities, said Secretary Austin. Weve also committed to swiftly finalizing the U.S. Philippines bilateral defense guidelines, which charts our vision for alliance cooperation across all operational domains, including space and cyberspace.

Secretary Austin and his Philippine counterpart Secretary Galvez agreed to redouble their efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Philippine ability to resist armed attack by modernizing U.S. and Philippine armed forces. Both leaders also discussed plans to deliver over the next five to ten years radars, unmanned aerial systems, military transport aircraft, and coastal and air defense systems.

These new defense commitments will further integrate our strong bilateral ties into multilateral networks, including with Japan and Australia, and we discussed plans to conduct combined maritime activities with likeminded partners in the South China Sea later this year as we work to enhance our collective deterrence, said Secretary Austin.

Our alliance is ultimately guided by our deep and enduring commitment to freedom. So, were not just allies, were democratic allies, said Secretary Austin, and the United States and the Philippines are bound by a common vision for the future  a vision thats anchored in the rule of law and freedom of the seas and respect for the territorial integrity of sovereign states.
The United States is taking additional action to hold accountable the repressive regime of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega. The Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control designated three Nicaraguan judges who are responsible for revoking the citizenship of more than 300 Nicaraguan citizens, leaving many of these individuals stateless.

The three Nicaraguan magistrates include, Judge Nadia Camila Tardencilla Rodriguez, of the Second District Trial Court of Managua; Judge Ernesto Leonel Rodriguez Mejia, of the Managua Appeals Court; and Judge Octavio Ernesto Rothschuh Andino, of the First Criminal Appeal Court of Managua.

On February 10, 2023, Judge Andino announced the courts decision to deport 222 Nicaraguan individuals, declaring them traitors to the nation.

Judge Tardencilla issued a judicial order on the same day that stripped prominent Catholic Bishop Rolando Jose Alvarez Lagos of his Nicaraguan citizenship and convicted him for treason, undermining national integrity and authority, aggravated obstruction, and spreading false news. Bishop Alvarez was given the opportunity to depart Nicaragua along with the 222 departing individuals but refused to go into exile. He now faces a 26 year prison sentence.

On February 15, 2023, judge Rodriguez announced the courts decision to strip 94 Nicaraguan citizens of their nationality, declaring them traitors. The denationalized individuals were outspoken critics of the Ortega regime and included notable journalists, human rights defenders, and clergy.

The Ortega regime continues to engage in anti-democratic actions that target the most vocal opposition figures in Nicaragua, including through its judicial system, said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson. The United States will continue to support the Nicaraguan people as they strive to restore democratic institutions.

The United States, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will continue to use available diplomatic and economic tools to promote accountability for the Ortega-Murillo regimes abuses, reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional release of Bishop Alvarez, and urge the restoration of civic space for the people of Nicaragua.
The United States condemns the PRCs unjust detention and sentencing of two prominent human rights defenders. On April 10, a court in Shandong province sentenced Xu Zhiyong to 14 years in prison and Ding Jiaxi to 12 years, for, as U.S. State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel wrote, supporting the exercise of internationally recognized fundamental freedoms, such as the freedom of assembly and expression.

Both Xu and Ding have been imprisoned before. Both lawyers played key roles in the New Citizens Movement, which began in 2010 and advocated for ordinary citizens to exercise their fundamental human rights; the end to corruption; and access to education for all children. Ding was imprisoned from 2013 to 2016, and Xu from 2014 to 2018. Hundreds of other lawyers associated with the Movement were arrested and many disbarred in the crackdown on human rights defenders that began after Xi Jinping consolidated his power and became President in 2013.

After their release from prison, Both Xu and Ding were again arrested following a private gathering of lawyers and civil society activists in 2019.

U.S. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Patel said in a statement, We urge the PRC to immediately and unconditionally release these two detained human rights defenders and to cease any harassment of their family members. We similarly call upon the PRC to release others who were unjustly detained or imprisoned, to reinstate the lawyers were unjustly disbarred, and to allow all individuals to exercise their fundamental freedoms. The United States, he declared, will always stand with the brave individuals in the PRC and around the world who defend human rights.
When Federal Law On Precious Metals and Precious Stones No. 41-FZ was adopted in 1998, it was a progressive decision introducing the private property for precious metals and precious stones. Probably, it was not yet clear at that time which of the PMPS sectors would flourish and which one would decline. All sectors were expected to flourish. Since then, a quarter of a century has passed and we see now that, in principle, the law works effectively, the PMPS sector in Russia is developing.

But there is one segment in the PMPS sector in our country, which is stagnating and even disappearing. This is the mining and processing of coloured gemstones/precious stones. Surprisingly, having introduced 25 amendments to the abovementioned law over 25 years, practically nothing has been done to stop the degradation of the mining and processing of coloured gemstones. It is necessary to reverse this process and to start developing the sector of coloured gemstones.

The PMPS sectors red-headed stepchild

The state doesnt neglect the PMPS industry and lawmaking is in full swing in this industry. However, the state mainly improves its control over the PMPS production and circulation through establishing the Federal Assay Office and introducing the State Integrated Information System in the Sphere of Control over the Circulation of Precious Metals and Precious Stones (SIIS PMPS). Apparently, it is believed that the industry will continue to develop on its own thanks to entrepreneurial initiative. Indeed, the capitalist approach, certainly, works, but only in cases when business sees enough profit from its efforts. Otherwise, it is no longer a business.

It is logical to assume that if the number of companies in the production and processing of the coloured gemstones is steadily declining, this means that this area of activity does not look very attractive for business ...

But interestingly, when there is no struggle in the market for something pleasant and no offended players it means there is no problem for the regulator. The writer of these words has tried for the quarter of a century to address all branches of government at all available platforms (practically alone) at various round tables, meetings and hearings to draw attention to the legislative problems of regulating the coloured gemstone sector and called for liberalizing the circulation of coloured gemstones, without which the Russian market for coloured gemstones would not develop in any way. My words were listened and taken into account. In principle, there were no objections, there were even promises from time to time to ease the regulations. But nothing has changed for the years. And only once, in 2005, at the hearings at the State Duma of the Russian Federation, I was given a clear answer in an extremely unpleasant form Someone is trying to destroy the system of state regulation of the market for precious stones... Has the system of state regulation of anything an intrinsic value if the state regulation does not result in the development of the sector and does not bring any benefit to the society or the state?

In part, the very name of the Federal Law On Precious Metals and Precious Stones played a trick on the coloured gemstones. If it was called On Precious Metals and Rough Diamonds (which the writer of these words called for all the time), then there would be no problems! And in this case, since there are not only diamonds, but also coloured gemstones/precious stones in the list of gemstones generally accepted in the world, it means that the state intensively dealt with them, too.

But de facto, not business dealt with these coloured gemstones but the GOKHRAN (Russias State Precious Metals and Gems Repository). It has been a problem even to put the issues of the circulation of coloured gemstones on the agenda of the meetings held by industry business associations for years as no one was interested in the coloured gemstones. There are very few industry market players in Russia who are interested in these issues.

And, in fact, what industry market players are still on the Russian market of coloured gemstones?

Firstly, this is the Mariinsky Priisk (Mine) JSC (mining emeralds and alexandrites) owned by Rostec (State Corporation for Assistance to Development, Production and Export of Advanced Technology Industrial Product Rostec.

Secondly, less than 98 micro-businesses and 2 small businesses that, according to Rosstat (Russian Federal State Statistics Service), have declared their activities under code 32.12.4 Processing of Precious, Semi-precious, Ornamental and Synthetic Stones, Except for Diamonds; it makes less than 100 companies, including those engaged in the processing of not precious stones, but of semi-precious, ornamental and synthetic ones. Moreover, they declared working in this area, which does not mean that they actually work in it. And in 2001, there were 305 such entities in Russia, according to Rosstat, which is not a great number, of course, but three times more than today.

Apparently, Rostec is quite satisfied with regulating the market of coloured gemstones. And what the tiny Mariinsky Priisk JSC mean for the giant Rostec Corporation? it is just a small non-core asset, the existence of which the head of Rostec, perhaps, hardly remembers.

And the aforementioned micro-businesses operating in the coloured gemstone market are certainly not able to defend their interests seeking help from the state. They need to make both ends meet...

So, it turns out that there are two players in the coloured gemstone market in Russia - GOKHRAN, i.e., the state, and the Mariinsky Priisk emerald mining company, which is able to continue its operation for a long time thanks to its parent companys subsidies in any market or non-market conditions. But we will talk about this company another time.

If you delve into the details of the regulatory framework for the practically non-existent Russian market for coloured gemstones, you may get the impression that the market is still alive. And how could it be otherwise when coloured gemstones exist by the law, and the department has the function of regulating their circulation. So, the regulatory framework for the circulation of coloured gemstones is being updated.

Rough&Polished has already discussed some positive new norms of law in the latest version of Federal Law No. 41-FZ On Precious Metals and Precious Stones that were adopted to regulate the precious stones market. It is worth repeating - for the first time in history, citizens of the Russian Federation were indirectly allowed to own loose precious stones. It was allowed indirectly, because this was not specified in the text of the law using a direct norm of law like, for example, Individuals have the right to make transactions and own cut and polished precious stones, but it was allowed through a definition of what buying-up is and what can be bought-up from individuals. But it was specified, at least, this vague way. It is better to have it specified this way than to have a legal vacuum in an environment where, in fact, the rule saying not allowed unless permission is explicitly expressed applies.

And despite the fact that the norm of law will come into force only almost a year later starting from March 1, 2024, immediately after the publication of the updated bill, there appeared quite a lot of announcements from individuals and legal entities on websites (like Avito) on selling cut and polished gemstones. The market is still tiny, but began to grow immediately. A private commercial initiative is a great thing if it is not completely discouraged by state prohibitions!

The by-laws have also begun to be updated to develop the updates to the main sectoral legislation. Instead of the current rules for the purchase of PMPS approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 444 of June 7, 2001, a draft of the updated ones has been worked out - https://regulation.gov.ru/projects#npa=136289.

Today, buying-up is a very important - if not the only - tool for the development of the domestic market of precious stones. This is almost the only way to create their secondary market today. Without knowing how a precious stone can later be sold for decent money, very few people in Russia are ready to buy it for a good sum of money, even if the gemstone is much more expensive by world standards. Unfortunately, first of all, thanks to state regulation of the market, almost no one in Russia sees intrinsic value in coloured gemstones.

It would seem that it is the time now to take advantage of updating the document and eliminating all existing weaknesses of regulation, in particular, those relating to the rules for buying-up coloured gemstones. Unfortunately, this is not appeared in the draft law.

There are no tools to make measurements, but you should make measurements, and you will be responsible for their correctness

In the updated Rules ..., it is planned to keep the requirements for indicating not only the names, but also the characteristics of the bought-up gemstones. It would seem that the requirements are normal. But the point is that gemstone sellers and buyers would need to know the gemstone characteristics only for correct gemstone grading and determining the price of the buying-up transaction based on certain price lists. However, the regulator establishes the responsibility for a buyer-up for the correct assessment of prices in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation. And how can a buyer-up correctly evaluate a gemstone, if the most important components of a gemstone evaluation are its colour and purity usually estimated by a gemologist in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation according to the reference collection of the corresponding precious stones, and the sets of these gemstones are available at the GOKHRAN and at specialized customs stations only? These parametres are estimated by the eye, in the literal and figurative sense of the word.

All these 25 years of law No. 41-FZ, some kind of magical solution helping in the instrumental assessment of the reliable characteristics of coloured gemstones was expected, but the magic did not take place, and the requirement from the old document is now transferred into the new edition of the buying-up rules, including the responsibility for the correct estimation of the gemstone characteristics. By the way, according to the current Russian legislation, the mandatory requirements for business, including the requirements for the mandatory determination of the characteristics of precious stones, should be realizable. And the requirement under consideration cannot be fulfilled in principle due to the lack of tools!

Even the most highly qualified experts in gemological centres are usually cautious and tentatively indicate charactreistics related to precious stones, if they are not completely sure that the characterestics are correct. And in this situation, a legal, and not commercial responsibility is mentioned for the correct estimation of the characteristics!

Another thing is in cases when a buying-up centre informs the seller about the characteristics of the gemstone at its reasonable discretion. That is, this option should be a buying-up centres right, but not its obligation, the centre shouldnt bear the responsibility before the seller for the estimation of the gemstone characteristics.

Your gemstone is expensive, but we can buy it cheap

Lets suppose that each buying-up centre has an experienced gemologist able to estimate the characteristics by the eye, without standards, and to accurately assess both the colour and purity of precious stones. But in this case, in accordance with certain characteristics, the prices of gemstones being bought up should also be calculated based on the price lists in force in Russia, that is, they should be calculated on the basis of the GOKHRANs price lists (we have no other ones), the effect of which supposedly should apply to the GOKHRAN only. And would buying-up centres like to buy gemstones from individuals at the GOKHRANs prices? No buying-up centre would like to do this, and never. Therefore, with a correct evaluation of precious stones, no buying-up centres will ever buy precious stones or the transaction price will be used, as it is specified in the draft buying-up rules.

But if the price of the transaction between the seller and the buyer-up can be negotiated, then why the buying-up centre should be obliged to estimate the characteristics of precious stones at all? Should it be done to honestly inform the sellers by telling them anything like your gemstone is worth 50 thousand roubles, but we, unfortunately, offer you 5 thousand for it? Does the regulator really believe in this? In fact, it is clear that the correct amount of 5 thousand will be told to the seller. What are all these manipulations with the estimation of characteristics and the price lists for? And what can these fractions like 3/2 tell the buyer?

Isnt it better to spell out that the price of gemstones being bought-up is negotiable, but, if the seller wishes, the gemstone can be sent for examination to a gemological laboratory at his or her own expense? That is, a buying-up centre can provide a service to the supplier if required. At least, it will be fair to the seller. In the end, buying-up centres can be placed under an obligation to hang out a sign reading If you would like to sell a gemstone studded jewellery piece of the significant value, we recommend that you first contact a gemological laboratory for the jewellery piece identification and evaluation and give the labs address.

But thats not all. Today, an average gemologist at a buying-up centre is unlikely to be able to reliably distinguish a natural diamond from a synthetic diamond. However, the difference in these stones price is obvious. With coloured gemstones, it is easier, but synthesis technologies are constantly developing. In addition, a synthetic stone is not a precious stone at all according to Russian legislation. So, perhaps, the definition of the name of the stone being bought-up should not be required to be provided by a buying-up centre? A buying-up centre is not a gemological centre. And to be fair, high-end gemstones are rarely brought to buying-up centres, even in Moscow, so the expenses the buying-up centres should pay for a gemologists services and the equipment required are hardly justified.

Another thing is selling the bought-up gemstones at buying-up centres. However, when selling, a buying-up centre can easily use third-party outsourcing services, gemological laboratories and deliver the bought-up gemstones there in parcels.

Buying-up centres as stores on the secondary market of jewellery stones

Buying-up centres may well play the role of stores on the secondary market of gemstones used for jewellery - all gemstones, not just legally precious ones. It is necessary that the new Rules ... would give the right to buying-up centres to sell gemstones to individuals. For the most part, legal entities are not interested in purchasing gemstones from buying-up centres, because they need parcels of calibrated gemstones for manufacturing purposes. But it will be quite interesting for individuals to buy a pre-owned good-quality gemstone to have a custom-made jewellery piece manufactured cheaper compared to using a new gemstone, of course, when a buyer is sure that the price is attractive, and the gemstone is real.

As noted, precious stones have already appeared at Avito and similar trade platforms today. But if the idea of promoting buying-up centres as trading platforms for pre-owned gemstones turns out to be feasible and in demand, this will give impetus to the market development. Knowing that a gemstone in a jewellery piece is good value for money, the populations interest in gemstones will gradually develop. The nearly investment approach of the population (if anything happens, it could prove useful for a rainy day in the future) should work in favour of the development of the gemstone market. Even without any advertising aimed at promotion. And buying-up centres, as organizations, should also be interested in the gemstone market development, because this is additional turnover.

Naturally, all of the above should apply to buying-up centres, as well as to to pawnshops that accept jewellery with gemstones as collateral.

And how should a buying-up centre work with certified gemstones?

At first sight, the buying-up centres work with certified gemstones may seem simpler because all the gemstone characteristics are known in advance. Yes, but a gemstone can be changed intentionally, and a certificate can be a faked one. And, most importantly, the gemstone price is already known to the seller in advance, although it is the purchase price paid some time ago...

Taking into account all the buying-up centres costs and risks, the really low liquidity of such a commodity group on the market, the spread between the purchase and selling prices will, presumably, be extremely high. Will such activity of buying-up centres bring benefit to the gemstone market? Im not sure, rather, on the contrary, the owner of a certified gemstone can be unpleasantly shocked when facing with an actual price spread. And he or she will never buy a certified gemstone again...

But this does not mean that pawnshops should not have the right to buy-up certified gemstones. On the contrary, the more shops selling pre-owned gemstones, the better for their market. Thats a self-evident truth.

In fact, the problem lies much deeper, it is in the mandatory price lists for precious stones. They were good when almost every gemstone mined in Russia was used for export. And they become a problem when there is a need to develop a domestic market.

And the problem lies even deeper, in a special procedure for regulating the production, cutting&polishing and circulation of coloured precious stones. Only their complete withdrawal from law 41-FZ On Precious Metals and Precious Stones will ensure the market demand adequate to business costs, and an increase in production, cutting&polishing and their use in jewellery manufacturing. Of course, the market will not be able to develop without advertising and promotion. But it is the freedom of enterprise in the field of coloured gemstones used for jewellery manufacture that will give impetus to their market development and will bring money into the sector, which will be enough for advertising as well.

Vladimir Zboykov for Rough&Polished
Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi discussed various issues with a group of college students & working women in the bus

BENGALURU: Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi is on a tour of the state ahead of the Karnataka assembly elections. On Saturday, where Rahul Gandhi was seen riding a delivery boy's scooter. On Monday i.e. today, he took a BMTC bus in Bangalore with the common man.

While traveling in a Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus, Rahul Gandhi discussed various issues with a group of college students and working women. The video of his journey has gone viral on social media. Rahul Gandhi is seen interacting with a woman in the bus.

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During the conversation with the women passengers, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi mentioned the rising prices of essential goods, Grihalakshmi scheme, BMTC and KSRTC Openly discussed many other topics, including the Congress guarantee of free travel for women in buses.

Notably, Rahul Gandhi is addressing a series of election rallies in Karnataka. Today is the last day of election campaign. Counting of votes will be held on May 13.
SC

A bench of Justice MR Shah and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah gave this decision while accepting the appeal of the DDA

New Delhi: In an important decision, the Supreme Court said that only the original owner of the land has the right to challenge the land acquisition. The court has also made it clear that the person who has purchased the land later has no right to challenge the acquisition of the land.

A bench of Justice MR Shah and Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah gave this decision while accepting the appeal of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). Referring to the judgment in the case of Shiv Kumar (supra) and Godfrey Phillips (I) Ltd. (supra), the bench held that the latter has no right to demand that the acquisition process be declared terminated. The bench said that under the law only the original owner of the land has the right to challenge the acquisition.

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The Apex Court has set aside the decision of the Delhi High Court, under which it was considered to terminate the acquisition process on the plea of the subsequent purchaser of the land.

The Supreme Court said that while perusing the judgment of the High Court, it appears to have ignored the facts presented by the Land Acquisition Officer that the possession of the disputed land was taken only on July 12, 2004.

The bench noted that the High Court has ruled that the D.D.A. also ignored the arguments of the petitioners that since the petitioners were subsequent purchasers of the land, they had no legal right to challenge the acquisition or to declare that the acquisition process was over. The Supreme Court held that keeping in view the legal provisions and the facts, the judgment passed by the High Court cannot be legally sustained, setting it aside.
Amanpreet Singh

Young Sikh trekker from Kashmir hoists Sri Nishan Sahib at Sorus Lake

SRINAGAR: A young Sikh trekker from Budgam has made the Sikh Community proud. Amanpreet Singh has reached the source lake for the first time and hoisted the sacred Sri Nishan Sahib (orange flag). Sorus Lake is situated at an altitude of about 3,600 meters in Anantnag district. It remains a center of attraction for tourists especially in spring season.

Amanpreet Singh along with mountaineer Muzammil Hussain and other companions commenced the trek on April 29 to scale the snow-capped mountains to reach the Sorus Lake and hoist the sacred flag there. Amanpreet Singh, a former student of Tyndale Bisco School, Amritsar, has been fond of mountains and nature since childhood. Due to the activities conducted by the school, Amanpreet's tendency towards hills and mountainsi increased. He recently joined a local trekking group led by some athletes and here too he proved his mettle.

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During a conversation with the local media, Amanpreet Singh said that when he went to his village Birwah with his father Rajinder Singh, he said that the biggest challenge in this track is snow. Amanpreet Singh said that the snowfall during the trekking made not only me but also my companions tired, but hoisting the Nishan Sahib was a matter of pride. He said that adequate preparation is necessary before going to the track. Apart from suitable clothing and footwear, it is essential to have adequate food, water, compass, map and first aid kit. You should be aware of weather conditions and potential hazards along the way.




Casualties were reported in a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks carried out by Russian forces across Ukraine since Sunday night.

At least one person was killed in the port city of Odesa, while five people were injured in capital Kyiv.

Other targeted cities include Kharkiv, Kherson, and Mykolaiv.

"Around midnight, the Russian occupiers attacked Odesa Oblast with Tu-22M3 long-range bombers. A total of eight missiles were launched from the area of Cape Tarkhankut (occupied Crimea). Some of the missiles did not reach their targets," the Ukrainian air force said in a statement.

"A guard at the warehouse where an enemy missile hit was killed. His body was found under the rubble," the spokesman for the head of the regional military administration wrote on Telegram.

Russia launched 61 air strikes and 52 long range missiles aimed at troop positions and populated areas, according to the Ukrainian military.

Ukraine claimed that it repelled the Russian attacks and downed a most-modern hypersonic weapon.

Meanwhile, the head of the annexed eastern Ukrainian region of Donetsk announced that it exported the first grain shipment from the port of Mariupol.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Political News
ELKO  An Elko man arrested in December on drug and gun charges is being sent to prison on the gun charge.

Carlos A. Nunez, 30, was arrested along with a woman at an Elko hotel/casino after police received a tip that the woman was fleeing charges of child abuse and drug possession in Sparks.

According to an arrest report, Naomi Perry, 25, was carrying three-quarters of a gram of heroin and less than half a gram of meth, while Nunez had 357 blue fentanyl pills in his possession as well as a stolen 9mm handgun.

Nunez was originally booked into Elko County Jail on charges of possession of stolen property, possessing a firearm by a prohibited person, carrying a concealed weapon, felony possession of a controlled substance, and violation of probation.

He pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm by a prohibited person and was sentence May 1 by District Judge Al Kacin to 2-5 years in prison.

Perry was arrested on two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance, and on a criminal justice detainer. Her bail was listed at $13,000.

According to Elko Daily files, Nunez was also arrested in March 2016 on armed robbery charges after entering Smiths grocery store and allegedly giving a note to a clerk instructing him to hand over money or he would be stabbed, according to the Elko Police Department. He got away with $300 but was found at a nearby casino and arrested.

Nunez was arrested again in 2017 and 2018 for violating conditions of a suspended sentence.

According to the Nevada Department of Corrections, he was sentenced in March 2018 to four years in prison.

Nunez was also arrested in December 2015 on a burglary charge related to the theft of computer equipment from a Winchester Drive apartment.
When launched, Citroen eC3 Aircross could pack close to 40 kWh battery, enabling a range of around 450 km on a single charge

The French brand hatched C-Cubed strategy to tackle the tricky Indian automotive market. This plan involved targeting mainstream segments that generate the most volumes in India and heavy localization of up to 95%. We got C3 Hatchback, its electric derivative eC3 and recently, C3 Aircross 7-seater compact SUV.

At the C3 Aircross debut event, Citroen had expressed its intention of launching an electrified version of its 7-seater compact SUV. Now, Citroen seems to have commenced testing of eC3 Aircross. This will be Indias first sub Rs. 20 lakh electric 7-seater.

Citroen eC3 Aircross Spied Testing?

Automotive enthusiast Venkat Ram spotted this test mule in Chennai recently and shared the same on Rushlane Spylane Facebook group. In the short video, this test mule is fully draped in camouflage despite debuting already. At first glance, it looks like a regular Citroen C3 Aircross test mule.

On keener inspection, we can see its battery module jutting out of its skateboard. We saw something similar in our first drive impressions of eC3. But on the eC3 hatchback, a 29.2 kWh battery module is only visible from the side and not from the rear. On the recent test mule, a battery pack is evident from the rear as well.

This could be an indication of a larger battery spread out till the rear. So, a 40 kWh battery could be possible, considering the smaller Nexon EV Max gets a 40.5 kWh battery. The test mule dons a temporary registration plate dated 2021, which seems to be in line with Citroens product development as the first set of eC3 test mules are believed to be registered in 2020.

What will it pack other than an electric powertrain?

Everything Citroen offers on C3 Aircross and some more. For starters, Citroen eC3 Aircross will pack the same interiors as its ICE counterpart along with a drive selector and center console from eC3 Hatchback. So, a 10.2 horizontal touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital drivers display, and steering-mounted controls will be on offer.

Apart from these, roof-mounted rear AC vents, an option between seven and five seating layouts, quirky styling, swanky 17 alloy wheels, roof rails, and LED DRLs are highly likely. While at it, we hope Citroen throws in LED headlights, LED fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, and probably even a sunroof, considering how trendy it is in India.

Launch Price Around Rs 15-20 Lakh?

Hyundai is testing an electrified Creta to launch in India. It could share powertrains with Kona EV and will rival Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV and to some extent, the smaller Tata Nexon EV Max. Citroen eC3 Aircross will lock horns with these EVs when launched. It can offer a claimed range of about 450 km and a real-world range of 350 km.

The Ace in this French car makers sleeve will definitely be quirky styling and 7 seats (5+2). Current eC3 hatchback costs between Rs. 11.50 lakh and Rs. 12.43 lakh. Which is around Rs. 5 lakh over its ICE counterparts. If ICE C3 Aircross starts from Rs. 8.5 to Rs. 9 lakh, eC3 Aircross is likely to cost from around Rs. 16 lakh (all prices ex-sh).
Former Poway Superintendent John Collins agreed to pay $185,000 to the school district, and struck a plea bargain that reduced four felony charges of misusing public funds to a misdemeanor charge of failing to disclose outside income.

Collins was accused of inappropriately taking more than $345,000 from the Poway Unified School District, and faced a potential maximum of seven years in custody, through criminal and civil cases against him. The agreement on Wednesday, overseen by Superior Court Judge Frederic Link, settled both cases.

Our hope is that this really puts it to closure for the district and Mr. Collins, as well, so they can go forward with educating students and not prosecuting Mr. Collins, said Deputy District Attorney Leon Schorr.

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Collinss defense attorney, former San Diego County District Attorney Paul Pfingst, said the agreement cleared the former superintendent of the most serious charges against him.

The vast number of criminal accusations against him have disappeared, and have boiled down to the failure to file one form, in a year, Pfingst said. Thats a far cry from the very exaggerated accusations that were made against him by the district.

Collins must pay the district $185,000 within 18 months, and will remain on probation for five years. If he defaults on payment or violates probation he must appear in court again, and could face additional penalties.

His teaching and administrative credentials were revoked, said attorney Maribel Medina, who represented the school district in its civil litigation against him. However, he continues to draw pension payments; according to the state compensation website Transparent California, he received $175,200 in 2017 and $187,511 in 2016 through CalSTRS, the state educators pension fund.

After two years of personnel disputes and litigation with Collins, Poway school board President T.J. Zane said officials are relieved to reach a settlement.

I was pleased to learn that its finally coming to a close, Zane said. It was a difficult period for everybody involved, and Im looking forward to being able to focus on moving the district forward in the right direction.

Collins started in Poway schools in 1989, rising through the ranks from a teacher, to principal, deputy superintendent and ultimately the highest-paid school superintendent in San Diego County, earning $308,900 per year, with total compensation of $457,347, including extra pay, benefits and retirement.

He was fired in July 2016 after the district commissioned an audit of his compensation that concluded he improperly collected more than $345,000 from the school district and obstructed an investigation of his pay. The audit painted a picture of severe financial distress that seemed at odds with Collins elite salary.

Texts between Collins and his wife described depleted bank accounts, and property records showed that the couple purchased a $1.25 million home in 2005, but sold it on short sale in 2013, narrowly avoiding foreclosure. The audit concluded that he had misused school funds by taking improper vacation payouts, inflating his salary and vacation balance and using a district purchasing card for personal expenses, in attempts to cover those shortfalls.

Poway school officials filed civil charges against him to recoup that money, while the district attorney launched its own investigation and charged him with four felony counts of misusing vacation and sick time and illegally using a district purchasing card between 2012 and 2016.

The case had been postponed twice as Collins grappled with health problems related to hearing loss, and finally went to preliminary hearings last week. Collins uses a cochlear implant, and wore a headset to listen to the court deliberations, which covered detailed accounting of his expenses, vacation balance and contract provisions.

Over three days of hearings, Judge Link heard testimony from the forensic accountant who prepared the audit that led to Collins firing, school officials responsible for administering the funds and the district attorneys investigator. They detailed discrepancies between the amount of vacation pay the district believed Collins was owed and what he collected, and explained how he used a district purchasing card for airline tickets and other personal expenses, but then repaid those funds.

Throughout testimony over those financial nuances, Pfingst argued that the case boiled down to a contract dispute, which the school district exploited in an effort to fire Collins for cause.

On Wednesday, prosecutors accepted a plea bargain on a government code misdemeanor in which Collins admitted to failing to disclose consulting pay he received while serving as superintendent.

Link acknowledged that the case, mired in fuzzy contractual language and bookkeeping discrepancies, was a difficult call, but said at the sentencing that Poway and other school districts need to be more vigilant about enforcing clear policy and safeguarding public education funds. Schorr agreed that holes in the contract complicated the case, but argued that as superintendent, Collins was ultimately liable for those shortfalls.

The defense had some very good arguments that these are contractual disputes and that there isnt a strong enough policy in place, Schorr said. Our position is that hes the one responsible for putting that policy in place, and has knowledge of that contract, and is liable criminally.

Zane said the school board has worked to close the loopholes that led to the disputes with Collins, by commissioning an internal audit and tightening its payroll and accounting procedures. A presentation to the school board last month detailed steps the district is taking to increase oversight of its revolving cash fund, accurately track vacation balances, and prevent waste, fraud and abuse of district resources.

Although the settlement ends a troubled chapter for the district, parties on both sides described it as a bitter compromise.

Chris Garnier, a former student of Collins who helped press for the investigation, said he was disappointed that the plea bargain did not include a felony charge, but said Collins will pay a price far beyond the $185,000.

Part of me also feels that justice has been served to an extent, because at the end of the day, his reputation will be forever tattered, Garnier said.

Facing ongoing health issues and escalating legal bills, Collins accepted the settlement, Pfingst said. But the once esteemed educator is disappointed that it came to that.

His choice is to spend an equal amount of money on lawyers, or to put this behind him, Pfingst said. He has enormous affection for the staff and students at the school, but believes after many years of service he was treated badly. The results of this plea deal show that.

deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan
Its no overstatement to call the newly opened Napizza eatery in Encinitas a labor of love. In fact, you could say the same for the companys last two locations as well.

Giulia Colmignoli  who co-founded the Roman-style pizzeria chain five years ago with her husband, Christopher Antinucci  gave birth to baby boys within days or weeks of opening their last two outlets in 2014 and 2015. Now shes pregnant with their third child, a daughter, who will arrive in early August.

I would just say that she works very well under stress when shes pregnant, said Antinucci, 33.

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The Solana Beach couple were born and raised in Rome where they met in grade school, then lost touch in their mid-teens. Colmignoli went to college in England and Antinucci moved to the U.S. at age 19 to study finance at the University of San Diego. When Atinucci was visiting Italy in 2004, they ran into each other and fell in love.

She moved to San Diego and they later married. In 2012  with the help of a pizzaiolo, or master pizza-maker, from Italy  they opened their first Napizza outlet on India Street in Little Italy.

A second location opened in 4S Ranch in July 2014, just days after they welcomed their first son, Giulio. And a third location followed in Hillcrest in June 2015, a few months before son Claudio was born.

Napizza co-founders Giulia Colmignoli and Christopher Antinucci of Solana Beach. (Pam Kragen/San Diego U-T)

Napizza  a Roman slang word for slice of pizza  has flourished because its believed to be the only pizza company in San Diego serving authentic Roman-style city pizza.

Roman pizza is served by the slice (al taglio) from large rectangular pans and it has more fresh vegetables and less cheese than American varieties. But the main difference is the low-yeast dough, which rises for 72 hours, making for a dough thats wet, and a crust thats light, crispy and filled with air bubbles.

Because of the crusts high moisture content, it takes 15 minutes to cook in a 650-degree oven (rather than the standard 3-4 minutes for bready American pizza).

Italian expatriates make up a sizable portion of Napizza customers, but for those who dont understand the pizzas unique properties, an entire wall of the 2-week-old Encinitas store is devoted to recipes and diagrams of the three-day process that creates a crust thats light and easy to digest.

Under the direction of 4-year master pizzaiolo Alessio Poli, the stores now serve up to 13 varieties of pizza every day, including a few gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Large rectangular slices sell for $3.50 to $5.75.

Some varieties are traditional Roman classics, like the top-selling Truffle Porcini variety, made with mushrooms and truffle pate. Some are all-American, like the Pepperoni and BBQ Chicken pizzas. And a few others are a blend of both cultures, like the Bapo, an Italian white pizza with sliced potatoes and rosemary thats been California-ized with sliced avocados and bacon.

The restaurant also sells salads, focaccia, vegan soups and Italian desserts, plus beer and wine. All meats are hormone- and antiobiotic-free and non-GMO, the flour is organic, the eggs are cage-free and the fish is sustainably farmed.

Beginning next week, the company will introduce online ordering as well as a take-and-bake service. All of the restaurants pizzas are par-baked, meaning theyre cooked to 80 percent doneness, then allowed to rest and dehydrate slightly. Once a customer orders a slice, its crisped up in a high-temperature oven. With the new service, the par-baked slices can now be packaged for home-crisping at 450 degrees.

The Encinitas store offers free delivery, even to cellphone customers on the local beaches, via an electric bicycle with a heated delivery case on the back.

The company has grown to 70 employees, including a handful of cousins and siblings from Italy. Colmignoli, 36, said the biggest changes at Napizza in recent years havent been in the kitchen but in the corporate culture.

Two years ago, the stores were experiencing 120 percent employee turnover each year. She said the mostly Millennial workforce wasnt motivated by money, so she and Antinucci launched their Live Culture Foundation to improve the workplace experience.

Employee turnover has since dropped to 25 percent a year, thanks to programs like employee retreats, yoga days, company-paid education programs, employee-led fun and cause committees, community outreach efforts, paid paternity leave and vacation benefits after three years.

Although Antinucci said they plan to open another Napizza location later this year, theyre not planning another expansion on the home front.

Well definitely open more stores, Antinucci said, but were done having kids after this.

Napizza

Hours: Opens at 10:30 a.m. daily

Location: 615 S. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas

Phone: (760) 452-2340

Online: na-pizza.com

___________________________

pam.kragen@sduniontribune.com
The Serbians and the Chinese gathered at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade on Sunday to mark the 24th anniversary of the killing of three Chinese journalists in the 1999 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) aggression on Yugoslavia.

China's Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo, Serbian Minister of Sport Zoran Gajic, and dozens of officials and civilians laid wreaths and flowers at the memorial monument to honor the victims -- Shao Yunhuan of Xinhua News Agency, and Xu Xinghu and his wife Zhu Ying of the Guangming Daily newspaper.

Gajic said that the Chinese Embassy bombing was a cowardly act conducted by the NATO aggressors, "in order to plant the seed of evil."

"It is upon us to remember and recall and pray for all of those people who lost their lives, and also to pray for those who survived, and let them come to their senses, so we could pursue a brighter future, and become a happier humankind," Gajic said.

Chen said that the martyrs of the bombing were "brutally killed," but that 24 years later, a growing trend of peaceful development brings hope to humanity.

"Twenty-four years have passed, the international situation has undergone tremendous changes, and China and the world have also undergone earth-shaking changes. Although power politics and hegemonism are still the most profound root causes of today's world turmoil, the forces committed to peaceful development are getting stronger and stronger," she said.

"Now more and more countries and people agree on the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind. I firmly believe that more and more countries and people will unite and work together to build a world of lasting peace and common prosperity," Chen said.

The NATO bombing of Yugoslavia started on March 24, 1999. Over the course of 78 days, 2,500 people were killed and thousands of people more were wounded, while 25,000 homes and a third of the country's energy sector were destroyed -- often by illegal weapons such as cluster bombs and depleted uranium warheads.

On May 7, 1999, U.S.-led NATO forces carried out a brutal missile attack on the former Chinese Embassy in Belgrade, which left three journalists working there dead, more than 20 people injured, and the embassy building severely damaged.

In the place of the ruined embassy building now stands a brand new Chinese Cultural Centre, overlooking two memorial monuments that memorialize the tragedy that took place here 24 years ago.
Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have captured a beautiful new image of the lenticular galaxy NGC 5283.

NGC 5283 is located approximately 168 million light-years away in the constellation of Centaurus.

Also known as LEDA 48425, Mrk 270 or UGC 8672, this galaxy was first discovered on October 7, 1866, by the German astronomer Heinrich Louis dArrest.

NGC 5283 contains an active galactic nucleus (AGN), Hubble astronomers said in a statement.

An AGN is an extremely bright region at the heart of a galaxy where a supermassive black hole exists.

When dust and gas fall into the black hole, the matter heats up and emits light across the electromagnetic spectrum.

NGC 5283 is also classified as a Seyfert galaxy, a galaxy that has an extremely bright central region that often obscure the much dimmer stars in the surrounding disk.

About 10% of all galaxies are Seyfert galaxies, the astronomers said.

They differ from other galaxies that contain AGNs because the galaxy itself is clearly visible.

Other AGNs emit so much radiation that they outshine or make it impossible to observe the structure of their host galaxy.

Hubble observed this galaxy as part of a survey for a dataset about nearby AGNs, the researchers added.

It will serve as a resource for astronomers investigating AGN physics, black holes, host galaxy structure, and more.
Delegates at the event (Photo: VNA)

The event was held next to the statue of President Ho Chi Minh in the city of Zalaegerszeg, about 240km west of Budapest.

Being inaugurated on the occasion of the 1st anniversary of the reunification of Vietnam (April 30, 1976) and having won a prize from the Hungarian Ministry of Culture a year later, the statue is the highly regarded work of Mr. Marton Laszlo (1925 - 2008), one of Hungary's greatest sculptors of all time.

Speaking at the flower offering ceremony, Vietnamese Ambassador to Hungary Nguyen Thi Bich Thao reminded listeners of the great career of President Ho Chi Minh, who sacrificed all his life for the independence of the Vietnamese people, and who embodies freedom, equality and patriotism.

Uncle Ho's monument, a masterpiece of high culture that the country and people of Hungary has dedicated to Vietnam, also reflects his simple and close quality, just like his person and affection.

The fact that the monument has been cared for and preserved by the government and people of Zalaegerszeg City and close friends of Vietnam during the past 47 years, overcoming all the harsh challenges of time and the times, the Ambassador highly appreciated it as a symbol of friendship and cohesion between Vietnam and Hungary, a good relationship and multifaceted cooperation that was upgraded to a comprehensive partnership five years ago.

Reviewing the visits of the two countries' senior leaders in recent years, the Vietnamese Ambassador expressed her belief that the Vietnam-Hungary relationship will grow stronger in all aspects of politics  diplomacy, economy-trade, culture, education, people-to-people exchanges, and promised to join the Hungarian friends in making every effort to contribute to promoting the relationship to be deeper and more effective.

For his part, Mr. Balaicz Zoltan, Mayor of Zalaegerszeg City, affirmed that the Ho Chi Minh monument in the city is a great work that has shown Uncle Ho's qualities as a patriot, father of the nation, leading the Vietnamese people in the fight for national independence.

According to Mr. Zoltan, the friendship between the two countries in the past has developed into good relations in all fields.

Balogh Miklos, a former Hungarian Socialist Party politician, former Member of Parliament and City Council member, who has been taking care of the Ho Chi Minh monument since 2005, along with many other friends of Vietnam, including the "veterans" of half a century ago who were members of the International Commission for Control and Supervision (ICCS) to oversee the implementation of the Paris Agreement on Vietnam.

For them, Vietnam is part of their lives and memories, and loyal feelings for Vietnam are emotions that have experienced the test of time.

The city of Zalaegerszeg, site of the first work in memory of President Ho Chi Minh since 1971, welcomed many delegations of female workers from Vietnam to work, and the statue of Uncle Ho is located here now is the only Ho Chi Minh monument in East Central-Europe./.
ATF3, a gene that leads to a taller nose (from top to bottom), may have been the product of natural selection as ancient humans adapted to colder climates after leaving Africa, according to a new genome-wide association study of facial features in over 6,000 Latin Americans.

In the last 15 years, since the Neanderthal genome has been sequenced, we have been able to learn that our own ancestors apparently interbred with Neanderthals, leaving us with little bits of their DNA, said co-senior author Dr. Kaustubh Adhikari, a researcher at University College London and the Open University.

Here, we find that some DNA inherited from Neanderthals influences the shape of our faces.

This could have been helpful to our ancestors, as it has been passed down for thousands of generations.

For the study, Dr. Adhikari and colleagues used data from 6,486 volunteers across Latin America, of mixed European, Native American and African ancestry, who are part of the CANDELA study, which recruited from five Latin American countries: Brazil, Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Peru.

The researchers compared genetic information from the participants to photographs of their faces  specifically looking at distances between points on their faces, such as the tip of the nose or the edge of the lips  to see how different facial traits were associated with the presence of different genetic markers.

They identified 33 genome regions associated with face shape, 26 of which they were able to replicate in comparisons with data from other ethnicities using participants in east Asia, Europe, or Africa.

In one genome region in particular, called ATF3, the scientists found that many people in their study with Native American ancestry  as well as others with east Asian ancestry from another cohort  had genetic material in this gene that was inherited from the Neanderthals, contributing to increased nasal height.

They also found that this gene region has signs of natural selection, suggesting that it conferred an advantage for those carrying the genetic material.

It has long been speculated that the shape of our noses is determined by natural selection; as our noses can help us to regulate the temperature and humidity of the air we breathe in, different shaped noses may be better suited to different climates that our ancestors lived in, said first author Dr. Qing Li, a researcher at Fudan University.

The gene we have identified here may have been inherited from Neanderthals to help humans adapt to colder climates as our ancestors moved out of Africa.

Most genetic studies of human diversity have investigated the genes of Europeans, said co-senior author Professor Andres Ruiz-Linares, a researcher at Fudan University, University College London and Aix-Marseille University.

Our studys diverse sample of Latin American participants broadens the reach of genetic study findings, helping us to better understand the genetics of all humans.

The results appear today in the journal Communications Biology.

_____

Q. Li et al. 2023. Automatic landmarking identifies new loci associated with face morphology and implicates Neanderthal introgression in human nasal shape. Commun Biol 6, 481; doi: 10.1038/s42003-023-04838-7
Representatives from Chinese enterprises mourn in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

BELGRADE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Serbians and the Chinese gathered at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade on Sunday to mark the 24th anniversary of the killing of three Chinese journalists in the 1999 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) aggression on Yugoslavia.

China's Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo, Serbian Minister of Sport Zoran Gajic, and dozens of officials and civilians laid wreaths and flowers at the memorial monument to honor the victims -- Shao Yunhuan of Xinhua News Agency, and Xu Xinghu and his wife Zhu Ying of the Guangming Daily newspaper.

Gajic said that the Chinese Embassy bombing was a cowardly act conducted by the NATO aggressors, "in order to plant the seed of evil."

"It is upon us to remember and recall and pray for all of those people who lost their lives, and also to pray for those who survived, and let them come to their senses, so we could pursue a brighter future, and become a happier humankind," Gajic said.

Chen said that the martyrs of the bombing were "brutally killed," but that 24 years later, a growing trend of peaceful development brings hope to humanity.

"Twenty-four years have passed, the international situation has undergone tremendous changes, and China and the world have also undergone earth-shaking changes. Although power politics and hegemonism are still the most profound root causes of today's world turmoil, the forces committed to peaceful development are getting stronger and stronger," she said.

"Now more and more countries and people agree on the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind. I firmly believe that more and more countries and people will unite and work together to build a world of lasting peace and common prosperity," Chen said.

The NATO bombing of Yugoslavia started on March 24, 1999. Over the course of 78 days, 2,500 people were killed and thousands of people more were wounded, while 25,000 homes and a third of the country's energy sector were destroyed -- often by illegal weapons such as cluster bombs and depleted uranium warheads.

On May 7, 1999, U.S.-led NATO forces carried out a brutal missile attack on the former Chinese Embassy in Belgrade, which left three journalists working there dead, more than 20 people injured, and the embassy building severely damaged.

In the place of the ruined embassy building now stands a brand new Chinese Cultural Centre, overlooking two memorial monuments that memorialize the tragedy that took place here 24 years ago. 

People holding flowers mourn the victims at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Representatives from Chinese enterprises make a bow in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Serbian Minister of Sport Zoran Gajic and China's Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo mourn in front of the memorial monument at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, Serbia, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
Xin Lili, head of Shanghai Ballet, briefs journalists on the rehearsal work of ballet drama "The Phantom of Opera" in east China's Shanghai, May 6, 2023. The Phantom of Opera, a ballet drama originally created by the Shanghai Ballet, will be staged at Shanghai International Dance Center on May 11-14. (Xinhua/Xin Mengchen)

Principal leading actor Wu Husheng (L), leading actress Qi Bingxue (C) and leading actor Tu Hanbin of the Shanghai Ballet are pictured during a rehearsal of ballet drama "The Phantom of Opera" in east China's Shanghai, May 6, 2023. The Phantom of Opera, a ballet drama originally created by the Shanghai Ballet, will be staged at Shanghai International Dance Center on May 11-14. (Xinhua/Xin Mengchen)

Leading creators and actors of ballet drama "The Phantom of Opera" attend a press conference in east China's Shanghai, May 6, 2023. The Phantom of Opera, a ballet drama originally created by the Shanghai Ballet, will be staged at Shanghai International Dance Center on May 11-14. (Xinhua/Xin Mengchen)

Editor: WXL
By Sarah Kelsey

The way Suzette Armoogam-Shah, Managing Director, Scotiabank (Barbados) Limited, tells it, fear nearly held her back from taking the role that changed her career trajectory.

When I talk about the most pivotal part of my journey to date, it was when the position of Director of Regional Banking for Atlantic Region, Canada came up, Suzette says. I was the first woman to hold the role, as was my newly appointed Senior Vice President. Early in my career, there wasnt a lot of diversity in senior roles and when you cant see yourself represented at different levels its hard to imagine yourself succeeding in, or even occupying those roles. I wanted the job but was held back by fear. I also didnt know the area, my relationships were in Toronto, all of the roles I had had were in the city. I couldnt bring myself to apply.

It was an ally within the Bank  her boss at the time  who pushed her to see she was on the precipice of letting her self-doubts derail her dreams. Right before the deadline, Suzette applied. She not only landed the job, she says she thrived being a part of Canadas East Coast team. That role eventually opened doors she had only dreamed of walking through within the Bank, and it showed her how critically important allyship can be for women  especially women of colour.

Role modelling is an incredibly important part of my success. I am in the position I am today because of the senior women who were role models to me, and Im privileged to continue that for others. I know there is some young person in Barbados and she is looking at me thinking, if she can do it, I can do it, and I take that role very seriously. Im representing what can be, what can happen when you take that chance, Suzette says. I take that on, and Im honoured to have the responsibility to foster and support diversity in the workplace and across the organization.

Suzettes story starts in Trinidad and Tobago, her birthplace and the country she lived in until she finished university. She then moved to Canada without her family, on a limited budget, and with no real knowledge of the nations culture. A childhood friend was working at Scotiabank at the time, and Suzette asked if she would put her resume forward for any available roles. When the Bank offered her a part-time teller position, she jumped at the opportunity.

I didnt move to Canada thinking I was going to go into banking, Suzette says. I quickly fell in love with the customer experience.

She continued to expand her skills as a Personal Banking Officer where she says, it was incredibly rewarding to help someone achieve their dreams financially, whether that involved buying a new home, getting a first credit card, or planning for retirement. Suzette was so good at her job and treated her clients with such respect, one recently got in touch  27 years later  to thank her for helping them buy a home.

I was so fulfilled that I was driven to do more.

Suzette says it was around this time that she began to map out her career to see how she could take the incremental and strategic steps necessary to become a Branch Manager and then beyond. She says with every promotion, her notion of what was possible expanded.

Suzette progressed to more senior roles in the organization including District Vice President in Toronto and becoming the first female Country Head at Scotiabank St Lucia and today, she leads the Banks operations in Barbados. She has seen the organization make incredible strides in terms of women holding leadership positions, especially in the Caribbean where the country-head roles are predominantly held by women.

Our region is really leading on that front, Suzette says.

Additionally, through Scotiabank, Suzette has become involved in I Am A Girl Barbados (IAAGB), an initiative that provides mentorship and capacity building sessions aimed at building the self-esteem of young girls from low-income households. Suzette says she sees a lot of herself in the young women  each of them wanting and striving for more.

Regardless of barriers, [women, especially those with intersectional identities, have to know] theyre capable beyond measure. Dont let fear win. Just do it. If you allow fear to hold you back youll miss out on the biggest opportunity ahead of you, she says. Throughout your career, you have a lot of self-talk  one person on your shoulder called fear and another called determination. You think, am I good enough, or am I ready? Fear doesnt go away; as you take on greater and larger risks, it pops up. Dont let it win.

For everyone else, she says her biggest piece of advice is to realize you cant just jump from one position to another  you need to train, work hard and expand your knowledge and skill set. Your career trajectory is not necessarily always going to be vertical. Sometimes lateral moves will provide that integral breadth of experience to get you to the next level. You also have to be passionate about learning and cultivating an environment that will motivate yourself, and your team members.

I once heard a saying: you cant motivate people  motivation comes from within. All we can do is create an environment to motivate, she says. You foster that kind of environment by leading with empathy, being relatable, staying connected, and being supportive.

When asked about whats next for her career, Suzette says, continue breaking barriers Shes continuing to push herself to learn, grow and to take on new challenges, including helping her colleagues expand their own careers within the Bank.

Ive been able to do so many things at Scotiabank. Ive learned quickly, Ive been agile, and when I think, am I going to fail now? I push forward. Im honoured to be where I am today. I want to help everyone bring their best selves to work, and to give people opportunities to ensure they thrive and succeed. Fear will never win.

This article was first published in Women of Influence and is republished with permission.
A China-Europe freight train is pictured at Xi'an International Port in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, March 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

Both Europe and China need each other in economic and trade as well as international affairs, a Croatian political analyst said.

ZAGREB, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Decoupling from China is neither viable nor desirable for Europe, which is a close economic and trade partner of China, said Kresimir Macan, a Croatian political analyst, in an interview with Xinhua.

Macan echoed the statement of European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France on April 18, when she declared that "decoupling is clearly not viable, desirable or even practical for Europe."

During her speech, the EC president said China's international and economic status, as well as Europe's own interests, make it all the more important for Europe to properly manage its relations with China. Europe must "carve out our own distinct European approach that also leaves space for us to cooperate with other partners," she said.

As Europe and China are close economic and trade partners, it is in the interests of Europe to take such a stand, Macan said, adding that both Europe and China need each other in economic and trade as well as international affairs.

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. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

China was the largest source of EU imports and the third-largest buyer of EU goods in 2022, with total bilateral imports and exports reaching 856.3 billion euros (959.96 billion U.S. dollars), according to Eurostat, highlighting China's economic significance to Europe. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which broke out in February last year, and the COVID-19 pandemic have made China a more crucial trade partner to the EU.

Macan hailed China's economic growth rate of 4.5 percent in the first quarter of this year, noting that the World Bank has raised China's economic growth rate to 5.1 percent in 2023, significantly higher than the bank's January forecast of 4.3 percent, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has set China's GDP growth rate at 5.2 percent this year, a substantial increase from last year's 3 percent growth rate.

Photo taken on July 26, 2022 shows the booth of cosmetics giant L'Oreal in the French pavilion at the second China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

In comparison, the IMF expects the global economic growth rate to drop from 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.8 percent this year, and the U.S. economic growth rate is expected to slow down from 2.1 percent in 2022 to 1.6 percent this year and the EU down from 3.5 percent in 2022 to 0.8 percent this year.

"The Chinese economy will continue to grow, and I think that the future of the Chinese economy is bright," Macan said, adding that China will remain as a locomotive of the world economy. 

Editor: Zhang Zhou
Oakland teachers were expected to strike again Tuesday, as the walkout increasingly divided parents, teachers and the school board into angry factions.

District officials and union negotiators reportedly met Sunday evening and into early Monday to continue hammering out a deal. It appeared to be the first official bargaining since the strike started Thursday, although the union and administrators had been in talks through state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, who took on a mediation role.

Just after 6 p.m., district officials said there was no imminent deal and the strike would continue into Tuesday.

A couple hours earlier, the Oakland chapter of the NAACP condemned the strike. While supporting fair compensation for teachers as well as their right to organize, the organizations officials called on the Oakland Education Association to end the walkout.

We strongly encourage the OEA to reconsider its decision to continue to strike at such a critical time in the school year, said Cynthia Adams, president of the chapter, in a statement.

The strike comes with less than three weeks left in the school year and as the districts students continue to struggle with the academic and mental health fallout from the pandemic.

Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

The two sides remained relatively close on compensation, but it appeared the most significant rift was based on the Oakland Education Associations demands for increased resources and policies outside the state-mandated bargaining topics.

That included using district property for homeless families, increasing mental health staffing, reparations for Black students, water filtration units for every 300 students, subsidized transportation for all 34,000 students and a formal role in deciding how to spend state grant money for community schools.

The union also demanded the creation of a handful of task forces or advisory groups to address environmental justice and other issues.

Union leaders said they would be focusing on the so-called common good demands Monday.

The strike by educators is and has been about more than a livable wage, union officials said in a statement Monday morning. Common Good issues and the ability of educators to use their professional judgement to advocate for the needs of students also is subject to bargaining.

Ishmael Armendariz, interim president of the Oakland Education Association, declined to respond to questions from The Chronicle at a picket line Monday morning, despite offering media access.

At the same time, the two sides continued to be at odds over the school day for elementary teachers, with the district wanting to increase the day by 15 minutes  from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., or a seven-hour day. The current contract requires a workday of six hours and 45 minutes.

Many other districts, including San Francisco, require a seven-hour day.

School board President Mike Hutchinson said the board has limited bargaining to required items, including compensation and working conditions. But it appeared Monday morning the district was at least talking about some of the common good demands, even if only acknowledging them rather than agreeing to any.

Tania Kappner, a distance-learning teacher at Sojourner Truth Virtual Academy, carried a picket sign at the schools East Oakland campus Monday, saying she was committed to remaining on strike until the district steps up on its offer.

We know they have money, she said. Were ready to stay out to get what we want. I want to make sure we hold together strong for our common good demands.

District Superintendent Kyla Johnson-Trammell has said that the district simply cant afford everything the union is asking for and that the priority is giving a historic increase in pay to teachers. The offer on the table would provide raises, including a 10% raise going back to the fall, and a one-time $5,000 bonus, a $70 million-a-year commitment, she said.

Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

In addition, many of the common good demands are costly policy decisions that should be enacted with public input rather than embedded in a contract with one of the districts six labor unions, Hutchinson said.

Midmorning Monday, three school board members, however, publicly opposed that position and announced support for the common good demands. They added that the board is mired in a stalemate, given a vacancy on the board, which leaves a 3-3 split on the issue.

Jennifer Brouhard, VanCedric Williams and Valarie Bachelor called on their three board colleagues to support the common good proposals and direct the districts negotiations team to negotiate over these issues with the Oakland Education Association.

Williams said he fully supported the unions efforts to address the common good.

OUSD has a moral right and obligation to address institutional and systemic practices that have created a school system segregated by resources and staffing, he said. The district has failed to engage students who need an education. Its time for OUSD to repair the harm to our Black families.

Board member Sam Davis and Vice President Clifford Thompson have sided with Hutchinson on the common good items and the contract.

Community members also were split on the strike. While many teachers and parents remained dedicated to the walkout, at least at some schools, support appeared to be waning.

At Chabot Elementary, parent Jesse Antin publicly shared his perspective during the weekend.

This is the third teacher strike in five years and the union has misread the room, he wrote in an email to the school community. This strike is unpopular, illegal, and immoral, and our kids teachers are on the wrong side of the sidewalk and of history.

He added that parents have had no voice in the process.

The union is holding our kids hostage over common good principles that we all agree on but which have no place in a labor contract, Antin added. Most of us are liberal people who choose to live in a liberal city, but activism has a time and place and this isnt it.

At Crocker Highlands Elementary, more than three dozen parents signed a letter saying they believe that holding up an agreement over common good items will only further hurt the children.

We dont take crossing the picket line lightly, the letter said. We realize that as our childrens teachers you have taught, cared for, inspired and shaped our children and we have respect and gratitude for each of you.

However, we also believe that the offer from OUSD meets the much deserved wage demands and we cannot support the strike further.

Most of the families who signed the letter sent their children to school Monday, said Megan Bacigalupi, a Crocker Highlands parent and cofounder of California Parent Power.

Schools have remained open during the strike and staffed by site and central office administrators as well as staff not represented by the Oakland Education Association.

Nearly 1,350 students attended school Thursday and more than 1,100 were there Friday out of 34,000 total students. Attendance numbers for Monday were not immediately available.








The Roman Catholic Diocese of Oakland filed for bankruptcy Monday as it confronts more than 330 lawsuits over alleged sexual abuse of children by the clergy dating back decades.

After careful consideration of the various alternatives for providing just compensation to innocent people who were harmed, we believe this process is the best way to ensure a fair and equitable outcome for survivors, said Bishop Michael Barber in a statement. Given our current financial resources, (the Roman Catholic Bishop of Oakland) could not shoulder the burden of litigating 330 cases.

Bankruptcy can provide a way to support all survivors in their journey toward healing in an equitable and comprehensive way, he wrote in a public letter in March.

We have limited cash reserves, and insurance may cover some of the claims, the diocese said on its website. We are also exploring the potential sale of assets that are underutilized or may not be critical in carrying out the mission of the Diocese.

The diocese will continue to operate, and employees and vendors will continue to be paid during the bankruptcy filing in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of California. The dioceses dozens of Catholic school affiliates are separate legal entities and will continue to open normally, the diocese said.

Most of the lawsuits, which were filed between 2019 and 2022, involve allegations of abuse that date back to the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, according to the church. As of March, three lawsuits were linked to alleged abuse that occurred over the past two decades.

The diocese is a tax-exempt corporation and has assets estimated to be worth between $100 million and $500 million, and estimated liabilities between $100 million and $500 million, according to bankruptcy filings. There are between 200 and 999 creditors, with the largest 20 being unidentified lawsuit plaintiffs, each owed an undetermined amount of money.

A 2019 state law, AB218, temporarily lifted the statute of limitations on civil lawsuits against any institution accused of enabling abuse, leading to hundreds of new filings in the past three years.

Numerous California dioceses are now grappling with the financial fallout. The Diocese of Santa Rosa filed for bankruptcy protection in March, similarly because it said it did not have money to settle more than 150 child sexual abuse lawsuits. The Sacramento and San Diego dioceses are also considering bankruptcy.

Barber, the Oakland bishop, was the lead plaintiff in an unsuccessful challenge to AB218 that was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court last year. The Supreme Court denied review of the bishops appeal without comment.

California bishops had argued the law violated a ban on new punishments for past acts, and their lawyer said the law would be potentially ruinous liability.

Established in 1962, the Oakland diocese has roots dating to its first parish in 1797, Mission San Jose in present-day Fremont. The churchs membership spans around 550,000 Catholics across Alameda and Contra Costa counties, with its headquarters at the $175 million Cathedral of Christ the Light near Lake Merritt in Oakland, which opened in 2008.

Beyond the lawsuits, the diocese said it faces declining attendance after the pandemic and an aging clergy. Oakland mass attendance was down 42% in 2021 compared with 2019, and Barber appointed a task force in 2021 to examine challenges, which has led to the merger of parishes.

As of 2018, the diocese had 45 priests, 110 deacons and 455 religious brothers and sisters in 82 parishes and 11 pastoral centers, with over 45,000 students across 41 elementary schools, eight high schools and two Catholic colleges.

In 2005, the diocese settled lawsuits with 56 victims for a total of $56 million, with individual settlements ranging from $200,000 to more than $2 million. The settlement resolved all litigation against the diocese at the time. That wave of litigation also came after California temporarily lifted the statute of limitations.

The Oakland diocese has a review board that assesses sexual abuse allegations and an Office of Victims Assistance that provides counseling and support for victims. The diocese also has a training program to prevent child sexual abuse.

It is important we take responsibility for the damage done so we can all move beyond this moment and provide survivors with some measure of peace, Barber said in a statement. Sadly, for many, the pain caused by these horrific sins, no matter when they occurred, will never wash away, which is why we offer support to survivors and pray for their continued healing.

Dan McNevin, leader of the Oakland branch of nonprofit Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, criticized the bankruptcy practice, which shifts claims by sexual abuse victims to bankruptcy court rather than civil litigation.

These bankruptcy actions are really designed to stiff-arm survivors by limiting their options in court, said McNevin on Sunday, before the Oakland filing. When bankruptcies are declared, its about freezing discovery and really focusing on money.

Its about secrets and keeping money away from survivors who have been harmed and really deserve reparations and deserve justice, he said. Its disappointing.

The church said in March that Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection allows all claimants equal access and an equitable share in the assets available to pay claims and is a court-sanctioned, public and transparent process that gives victims a say in the process.

McNevin believes the Diocese of Oakland has plenty of real estate holdings across the East Bay that could be sold to compensate victims and a bankruptcy is unnecessary. He expects lawyers for victims to challenge the bankruptcy filing. He also wants state lawmakers and California District Attorney Rob Bonta to investigate the issue, though the bankruptcy filings were made in federal court.

This is a business model for them, he said. When all else fails and theyre going to face justice, they declare bankruptcy.

McNevin was part of the 2005 settlement between victims and the Diocese of Oakland. He said a pastor, James Clark, sexually abused him when he was an altar boy in Fremont in the late 1960s and 1970s.

In 2019, the Diocese of Oakland published the names of 45 priests and other members of the clergy and staff who have credible accusations of sexual abuse of minors, which included Clark, who died in 1989.

Barber said at the time that no priests or deacons who are active in the ministry have credible allegations of abuse of a minor.

During the last three years, around 10 more of Clarks alleged victims have come forward and sued, McNevin said.

McNevin said he was 43 when he went public and informed church officials, and it can take decades for victims to come to terms with their trauma.

Most people who come forward are in middle age, said McNevin, who wants the hundreds of lawsuits to proceed in civil court and go through discovery, rather than ending up in bankruptcy court.

This is the victims opportunity to have an equal say in the process. He or she was powerless as a child. The bankruptcy process takes it away from them, he said.
District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said Monday she has not ruled out filing charges against the security guard who shot and killed a young San Francisco man, Banko Brown, at a downtown Walgreens during an alleged shoplifting incident. The statement comes after Jenkins said earlier this month that she would not charge the security guard because there was credible evidence of reasonable self-defense, and that pursuing such charges would be unethical and create false hope for a successful prosecution.

But on Monday, she said in a statement that shed asked SFPD investigators to locate and interview additional witnesses and gather additional evidence. A final charging decision will be made when the investigation is complete.

The move comes after mounting pressure from community activists, residents and politicians over Jenkins decision earlier this month not to seek charges against security guard Michael Earl-Wayne Anthony, who police say shot Brown April 27 outside a Walgreens on Market Street after intervening when Brown allegedly tried to shoplift from the store.

The shooting has prompted significant outcry, with Browns loved ones and friends calling on Walgreens to shutter the store where he was killed and stop using armed security guards to watch over its stores. Bankos supporters described him as a strong advocate for the transgender community and held a vigil in his honor outside of the Walgreens where he died, protested outside City Hall and called for action during the latest meeting of the board of supervisors.

Theyve also demanded Jenkins bring charges against Anthony. Brown family attorney John Burris has called on Jenkins to release video evidence of the fatal encounter, but Jenkins has balked at releasing any footage of the incident, saying she cant release it while the investigation is ongoing.

Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin last week said he planned to draft a resolution formally requesting Jenkins reconsider her decision but ultimately modified the resolution to ask the citys top prosecutor to release police reports, witness accounts and video of the incident.

State Sen. Scott Wiener weighed in on the case again Sunday, saying that a steady stream of information regarding the shooting has raised significant public doubt about the security guards claim of self-defense. He also urged Jenkins to release video and witness statements related to the shooting.

Transparency with the public is critical, he said.

In Mondays statement, Jenkins said she hear(s) and understand(s) the concerns from people calling for transparency, but stood by her past decision not to release video of the encounter.

Jenkins went on to say that when she had decided not to charge Anthony, hed been in police custody and that California law requires suspects be charged within 72 hours, and to hold them longer without charges would violate their due process rights.

It is my duty to follow the law and the evidence wherever it leads, and do everything in our power to advance justice and healing in our communities, she said.

Editor's note: This story was corrected to read that police said Banko Brown tried to shoplift before he was shot.
A boisterous San Francisco destination known for its fresh bratwursts and boot-shaped glasses of beer is coming back to life after a three-year closure.

Leopolds Gasthaus in Russian Hill reopens Thursday, May 11, with a classic menu of Austrian dishes and plenty of imported beer. The interior got a small cleanup  the dark brown wood has been refinished and the walls have a fresh new coat of buttercup yellow paint  but its new owners are hoping to keep the vibe inside just as warm and buzzing as it was before the pandemic.

Taking the reins are Michael Lamina, the restaurants original chef from 2011 to 2013, and partner Carla Suntjens. Its the latest instance of an old neighborhood favorite passing the torch to a new generation. Lamina has maintained a close relationship with Leopolds original owner, Albert Rainer, who opened the restaurant along with his brother Klaus in 2011. (Originally, waitresses wore traditional dirndls.)

Leopolds shut down in 2020, and its return was uncertain. Rainer hoped to reopen the restaurant himself, but he was thwarted by a second wave of pandemic-related shutdowns and the required seismic retrofitting of the building. Lamina, who had spent the last seven years working for restaurant and catering management company Bon Appetit, had no plans to open a restaurant of his own, but jumped at the opportunity when Rainer approached him and Suntjens last July.

There was just one condition for the new owners: the name.

Leopold was Alberts grandfather, that is why its so important that the name carry on, Suntjens said. (Leopold was Austrian; Rainer is from the Alsace region of France, bordering Germany.)

Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle Top: A freshly poured beer in a 2-liter boot-shaped glass at Leopolds in San Francisco, which is reopening under new owners after a three-year closure. Above left: House-made bratwurst with caraway butter potatoes, sauerkraut and jus. Above right: Schnitzel with a potato-cucumber salad and a side of lingonberry jam. Photos by Felix Uribe / Special To The Chronicle Top: A freshly poured beer in a 2-liter boot-shaped glass at Leopolds in San Francisco, which is reopening under new owners after a three-year closure. Above: House-made bratwurst with caraway butter potatoes, sauerkraut and jus. Bottom: Schnitzel with a potato-cucumber salad and a side of lingonberry jam. Photos by Felix Uribe / Special To The Chronicle

With the months-long renovation work now complete, and with a new beer and wine license to operate, Leopolds is ready to welcome diners into its 45-seat space. Rainer was involved in the work to revive the venue, ensuring the reborn Leopolds stayed true to its roots, with the same long communal table in the heart of the dining room and polka music on the stereo.

Returning patrons will find their old favorites on the menu, too, like the house-made bratwurst served with sauerkraut ($16). The rich and cheesy kasespatzle ($20) and a hearty wiener schnitzel with lingonberry jam and a potato-cucumber salad ($27) will also be back. Daily specials will include items like tafelspitz, a Vienna-style steak prepared in vegetable broth, and smoked duck.

Austrian fare can be a bit heavy for some, so Lamina is adding lighter dishes, like smoked trout tartare over kohlrabi slaw ($18), and vegetarian items like a roasted beet salad ($16), to the menu to accommodate more customers

Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle Leopolds Austrian-inspired interior is the same as before, thanks partly to the participation of the previous owner. New owners, including the original chef, say they hope longtime visitors will be able to pick up right where they left off before the pandemic. Photos by Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle Leopolds Austrian-inspired interior is the same as before, thanks partly to the participation of the previous owner. New owners, including the original chef, say they hope longtime visitors will be able to pick up right where they left off before the pandemic. Photos by Felix Uribe/Special to The Chronicle

Beer, of course, will still be a major part of the experience, with eight options on tap like Franziskaner Hefe-weissbier and Benediktiner Helles lager in traditional .3-liter and half-liter glasses all the way up to 2-liter boot glasses. As many as 20 beer selections, leaning predominantly Austrian and German, in cans and bottles, are also available. Some Belgian brews and others from Eastern Europe also appear on the beer list.



Its all European. There is nothing American in our beer fridge, Suntjens said with a laugh. Wines from Austria and neighboring regions of Germany, Slovenia and Italy will also be available, she said.

Upon reopening, Lamina and Suntjens hope longtime visitors will be able to pick up right where they left off before the pandemic shut down the restaurant.

During a recent test dinner with former owner Albert Rainer present, the restaurant was raucous, abuzz and full of energy.

I think we made Albert proud, Suntjens said.

Leopolds 2400 Polk St., San Francisco. 5-10 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday. 5-11 p.m. Friday. leopoldssf.com
It might be hard to believe in an increasingly expensive Bay Area, but a highly anticipated Oakland pasta destination will serve fresh, handmade spaghetti for just $10 a bowl.

Popular pop-up Sfizio is welcoming diners into its brick-and-mortar restaurant in Oaklands Rockridge neighborhood on Wednesday, May 10. There, chef-owner Matt Solimano, a former sous-chef at Oaklands Pizzaiolo, plans to deliver fresh, quality pasta dinners and small plates that wont break the bank: Most entrees are priced at $16, though a classic spaghetti with tomato sauce and Grana Padano cheese is just $10 (or $16 with braised pork meatballs).

The casual new counter-service restaurant comes after years of itinerant engagements around the Bay Area that started in the summer of 2020 at South Park Cafe in San Francisco. Solimano later moved Sfizio to Berkeleys Way Station Brew in July 2021, selling out of his pasta supply weekly. Most recently, Sfizio made appearances at Oaklands buzzy Ramen Shop and popular natural wine bar the Punchdown.

Amaya Edwards/Special to The Chronicle

Just like Sfizios pop-up days, the menu will consist of three or four starters and three pasta entrees. For its debut, starters ($10) will include grilled asparagus with romesco and Pecorino and grilled squid topped with scallions and a salsa negra. A cacio e pepe bucatini with English peas ($16) and a corkscrew-shaped cavatappi with pesto, snap peas and spring onion ($16) will feature as entrees. Gluten-free pastas, which Solimano tested for months, are available for an extra $3.

Solimano says he took some inspiration for Sfizio from lunch-only pasta spot Il Corvo in his native Seattle, which offered $10 pasta meals. Its a thing I never saw anywhere, but its such a cool concept, he said.

The cost of flour, water and eggs, pastas humble chief ingredients, are typically low but have recently fluctuated. To maintain his low prices, Solimano has focused on keeping more expensive labor costs down, focusing on less labor-intensive extruded pasta shapes instead of hand-formed ones.

One or two items will change every week or so, Solimano said, based on his inventory and what ingredients are in season. A pasta shape might stay on but get a different sauce or different vegetables. Old pop-up favorites like casarecce with anchovy and capers and fettuccine with sweet corn and tarragon, among others, may rotate in. Solimano recently acquired new dies to squeeze out different pasta shapes from his VIP/2 professional extrusion machine; Sfizios pillowy gnocchi will be available for special occasions.

I want to keep it interesting and fun for everyone, Solimano said.

Amaya Edwards/Special to The Chronicle

Just like the menu, the drink selection will be small (about 10 wines at a time) and focused on affordability. Glasses will range between $8 and $12, and bottles between $35 and $50. Selections are mostly Italian and highlight native grapes from regions Solimano became interested in after a research trip to Italy. Reds like Valpolicella from Veneto, in northern Italy, and a classic Tuscan Chianti feature alongside a white Vermentino from the island of Sardinia.

Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more.

Low-ABV cocktails like the bianco spritz, with white vermouth, Prosecco and thyme, and the Sfizio, made with Cardamaro, Mazzura vermouth and lime will also be available. Two beers will be on tap: Wondrous Brewings helles lager and an IPA from Cellarmaker. Diners looking to rev up an appetite with a few drinks can stop by for aperitivo hour, from 3 to 5 p.m. Dinner service will run from 5 through 10 p.m.

The 800-square-foot space will seat 20, with outdoor seating for 12. The three-month-long build transformed the blue-gray walls of previous tenant Noodle Theory to a homey, light beige, adorned with old photos and walnut paneling along the bottom.

Opening this was a lot of work, and Im excited, Solimano said. Its really coming together.

Sfizio. 6099 Claremont Ave.,Oakland. 3-10 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. sfiziopasta.com
No damage was caused to the energy system of Ukraine as a result of the enemy's massive attack on the country last night, however, there are power outages in the frontline regions, the press service of the Energy Ministry of Ukraine has said on Monday.

"The night massive shelling of the capital, Kyiv and Odesa regions, fortunately, did not cause any damages to the energy infrastructure. At the same time, consumers in Kherson, Kharkiv, Zaporizhia, Donetsk, Sumy, Chernihiv regions remain without power supply due to shelling," it said.

According to the ministry, power engineers are working to resume power supply where the situation with security allows.

"In particular, power supply has been resumed in the settlement of Hrakove in Kharkiv region, which had been blacked out since last year. Consumers in Dnipropetrovsk region, who were disconnected from power supply after a recent massive missile strike, have been connected to power supply again," it said.

In the past 24 hours, power supply was resumed for more than 24,500 consumers.
For the third year in a row, Jackie Chan  who is not American  was the top choice survey respondents selected when asked to name a famous Asian American or Pacific Islander person.

Chan (12%) beat out Bruce Lee (6%), who died in 1973, but they were both topped by I dont know, the response from 26% of those in a third national survey on attitudes and stereotypes released Tuesday by the Asian American Foundation.

The laughable result for this question reflects the historic absence of AAPI representation in Hollywood, notwithstanding the Oscar wins by Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan this year. What about Kamala Harris (third in the survey at 5%) and Dwayne Johnson? They are two of the most famous people in the world, but many dont seem to know that the vice president is half Indian and Johnson is half Samoan.

Its no wonder then that 80% of the AAPIs in the foundations survey agreed that they do not completely feel they belong and are accepted in U.S. society, and 52% said they feel unsafe because of their race.

AAPI invisibility fuels stereotypes about Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, who are viewed by many as kung fu (or kung flu) masters or not thought of at all; even some of the most well-known AAPIs get overlooked or erased.

Stereotypical perceptions are also a factor for why almost half the AAPIs in another survey released Wednesday said that they have experienced illegal discrimination at such places as restaurants, while shopping or at work, according to a report by the advocacy group Stop AAPI Hate.

I know I watch my back more now when walking the streets at night, or during the day, for that matter. Three years of pandemic-driven anti-Asian hate will do that to you. Stop AAPI Hate was formed in response this abuse and created a website to track incidents; it has received more than 11,000 reports of racist verbal and physical attacks against Asians and Pacific Islanders.

We all know COVID-19 originated in China, which is now the top geopolitical and economic enemy of the U.S. That makes it easier to blame China for the virus, like a certain former president, and by extension, anyone who looks Chinese, even if theyre American. This plays into the yellow peril and perpetual foreigner stereotypes, the idea that someone Asian looking is a threat and couldnt possibly be a loyal American no matter how long theyve lived here. So, its understandable why many AAPIs feel like outsiders in their own country.

Even when it was clear that anti-Asian hate incidents were rising, it took the 2021 mass shooting in Atlanta, in which most of the victims were Asian American, to jolt the country to take notice.

Despite feeling like outsiders, AAPIs collectively are an economic success, feeding the model minority stereotype, which leads to glossing over or not taking seriously needs that some or all in the group may have, such as being targeted for racist attacks.

Being a perpetual foreigner could also be why the discrimination cited in the Stop AAPI survey is so widespread. Only 1 in 5 respondents said they reported the incidents, and a majority believed reporting it wouldnt make a difference. This points to some of the contradictory views of AAPIs the foundations report points out; discrimination against AAPIs is real but reporting of it may not be taken as seriously because they are perceived as model minorities who supposedly dont have these issues.

While these survey findings have been exacerbated by three years of elevated anti-Asian hate that started during the pandemic, they have far deeper roots.

We cant blame political rhetoric and the COVID-19 pandemic alone for anti-Asian sentiment, Norman Chen, CEO of the Asian American Foundation, said in a statement. Historic stereotypes and prejudices towards our communities are persistent and deeply entrenched.

Nonetheless, while many people couldnt name a famous Asian American or Pacific Islander person, there were some encouraging signs in the surveys.

More than 60% of respondents in the Asian American Foundation survey said they would like more opportunities to interact with AAPIs to learn about their experience and history. And 3 in 5 believe that incorporating the AAPI experience into the teaching of American history is important.

Just like in Hollywood, many history books are devoid of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, so its no wonder Jackie Chan, who again, is not American, is the only AAPI-looking person many people can name.

There are efforts to get lessons about AAPI history into more school curriculums. Youd think this would be a no-brainer.

Often, people fear what they dont understand. Learning something new can open minds. Im Chinese American, but I didnt learn about the long history of Asians and Pacific Islanders in this country until college, and it was mind opening for me.

However, education is now a battleground in the countrys culture wars, so teaching ethnic studies  largely about the experiences of AAPIs, Black people, Latinos and Native Americans  is criticized as woke and faces resistance.

This country is still unlearning a legacy of racism that dates to before its founding. As the Asian American Foundations report said, Racism is deeply entrenched in American history, culture, and institutions.

Thats a lot to unwind, and it will take time. We wont get there, though, if we bury our heads in the sand, afraid to listen to what might be uncomfortable truths.
My husband has young-onset Alzheimers and had to leave his highly demanding tech job in 2016 at age 53. Hes still in the early stages and able to enjoy walking and spending time with family and friends; he even recently won a game of trivia at the Alzheimers Association.

Now theres Leqembi, an FDA-approved Alzheimers treatment that is proven to slow the progression of Alzheimers and give people more time to enjoy their lives, and I am desperate for him to get access to it while he can still benefit.

Unfortunately, Medicare is refusing to cover this treatment and setting up barriers to access that it hasnt set for any other treatments for fatal diseases. We are aggrieved by the prospect that my husband may join the 2,000 people with Alzheimers who daily progress beyond the point where they can benefit from this drug.

Please join me in urging Congress to stand up for my husband and others like him and ask Medicare why its blocking access to FDA-approved Alzheimers treatments. We need access to these drugs!

Claudia Vieira, Oakland

Nominate Civic Center

Regarding Is S.F. worthy of World Heritage status? Local boosters say yes, despite the citys flaws (San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, May 1): San Francisco should nominate a unique aspect of the city for UNESCO World Heritage designation.

The obvious first choice of a place so exceptional as to rise above local or national interest or value is the San Francisco Civic Center. It is the most complete of the civic centers proposed at the beginning of the 20th century by the progressive City Beautiful Movement and has always held consistent to its original design.

Today, it consists of the largest collection of monumental municipal buildings of any city in the country, centered by the magnificent domed City Hall. The complex was conceived as the means to build community by providing grand settings for citizens to participate in government, be educated and be entertained.

The city Planning Department is preparing for final approval of a Civic Center Public Realm Plan to repurpose the nearly empty Civic Center and United Nations plazas and other public places and streets. This plan could be the basis for the process to nominate Civic Center for UNESCO World Heritage Designation.

James Haas, San Francisco

Reform immigration policies

Regarding Undocumented workers pay for Californias unemployment insurance. Give them a safety net (Open Forum, SFChronicle.com, May 5): Once again, California rushes headlong into a problem in a backward fashion by trying to create unemployment benefits for undocumented workers.

The lack of various benefits for undocumented farm workers is, of course, deplorable. We hardly needed a couple of academics to advise us of the issue or the problem.

What is needed now is a comprehensive national immigration policy that would legalize the underlying problems the report makes note of.

Dane Fabe, Sausalito

Drink Bud Light

As many of you know, Anheuser-Bush, makers of Bud Light beer, sponsored a posting by a social media influencer who is transgender.

This resulted in an almost 20% sales drop of Bud Light. Obviously, a lot of people who drink Bud Light, think poorly of transgender people. They think they can sway the way things should be done. Well, we can, too, so go buy a six-pack right now!

Emily Webster, Sebastopol

Stay strong, Kevin

Regarding Resolving to fight, and write, to the end (Kevin Fisher-Paulson, SFChronicle.com, May 2): My heart is broken by the news of columnist Kevin-Fisher Paulsons illness.

I feel like he is part of my family. He makes me smile every Wednesday. He is kind and good. He writes with a twinkle in his eye.

Be strong, Kevin, and know that candles will be lit all over the city for you, and we will be praying for you to beat this! You have a legion of fans out there who wish all the best for you and your family.

Beth Devener, San Francisco
San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai has made it official: He is challenging Mayor London Breed in the 2024 election.

Safai filed paperwork Monday morning formally declaring his intent to run for mayor next year, launching what could be an intense contest for the citys top political job.

Safai, a two-term supervisor who represents the Excelsior, has for months been widely believed to be gearing up for a mayoral bid, and he confirmed to reporters in March that he was contemplating a run.

Now his decision is final.

People are very dissatisfied with the current mayor, dissatisfied with the condition of the city, and theyre looking for change, Safai told The Chronicle. A lot of the people that I represent and work with and have talked to all over the city want someone thats going to fight for working families, thats going to fight to get the city back on track. I have heard overwhelmingly that they want new leadership.

Safai may have a hard time distinguishing himself from Breed. He and the moderate mayor have taken similar positions in the past on issues such as housing development and retail crime.

Politically, he has not always been aligned with the progressives who are most opposed to Breed. Safai defeated a progressive when he won election to the Board of Supervisors in 2016, a victory that was seen at the time as helping moderates gain control of the legislative body. But Safai said even then that he didnt think he could be labeled either a moderate or progressive.



Safai wont be Breeds only challenger. In addition to the mayor and supervisor, 16 lesser-known people have also filed candidate declarations, according to the city. Others may jump into the race in the coming months. Daniel Lurie, founder of the Tipping Point Community anti-poverty organization, stoked speculation that he would run for mayor with a series of recent tweets that referenced his desire to turn the city around and improve its reputation. But he previously declined to say whether he would run, and he has yet to file a declaration of candidacy.



The 2024 mayoral race is heating up at a fraught time for San Francisco, which is facing a surge in fatal overdose deaths and incessant public drug markets, along with persistently high levels of homelessness and a faltering economy downtown. Less than a quarter of residents in a Chronicle poll last year said they thought Breed had done an excellent or good job at improving the city. In a more recent survey conducted by the city, residents gave San Francisco government its lowest rating since 2002. Still, Breed, who has been mayor since 2018, approaches the race with widespread name recognition and other advantages of incumbency that may make her hard to beat.



Maggie Muir, a political consultant for Breed, responded to Safais filing with a statement that touted the mayors leadership during the pandemic and said she is laser-focused on delivering on her strategic initiatives to move San Francisco forward.



She has laid out clear plans to get more police on the street, hold fentanyl dealers accountable, revitalize a changing Downtown, build more homes across our entire city, and make progress on moving people off the street and into shelter and housing, Muir said. San Francisco is the city that raised her and she will do whatever it takes to lift this city and its people up.

Safai was once an ally of Breeds, but the two have grown more distant as Safai has taken a more critical position against the mayor and her administration.

He sponsored a proposal from Breed in late 2021 to fast-track some kinds of housing developments  her third attempt to get supervisors to embrace such a measure. After other supervisors declined to send that proposal to voters, Breed and her allies got the measure on the November 2022 ballot anyway by running a successful signature gathering campaign. Yet Safai ultimately backed a rival housing measure pushed by progressive supervisors. Both measures, Propositions D and E, failed.

In the same election, Safai also sponsored a separate measure, Proposition C, that created an oversight commission for the citys homelessness department, which Breed controls. The proposition came in the wake of a Chronicle investigation into squalid living conditions at single-room-occupancy hotels where the department houses formerly homeless people. Breed opposed the measure, but it was approved by voters.

Safai also criticized Breed after her State of the City address in February, telling a Chronicle reporter that he didnt hear a spirit of collaboration with supervisors, labor groups and the business community.

He echoed those comments when discussing his final decision to run for mayor next year.

If youre constantly making declarations but not willing to collaborate and work with others and lead in an effective way, youre not going to see results, he said.

Safai said he felt Breeds administration had completely mismanaged conditions around United Nations Plaza and the adjacent Tenderloin district, which has been the epicenter of the citys drug dealing and fatal overdose crisis. Regarding Breeds temporary state of emergency in the Tenderloin that lasted for a few months last year, Safai said he thought there was no clear plan, there was no clear follow-through.

In fact, if you talk to a lot of the surrounding merchants and residents, they feel like it contributed to making things worse, Safai said.

To improve the citys response to its drug crisis, he said he would put more of an emphasis on creating more sober living environments to help people with substance use disorder transition into recovery. He also said he would fight harder to ensure that the city is providing drug treatment on demand, so users are able to access services whenever theyre ready for them.

Safai said he thought his constituencies in the mayoral race would include middle-class families, small business owners and people that feel like San Francisco is headed in the wrong direction, which he called a significant portion of the city.
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Downtown San Francisco is experiencing its worst office vacancy crisis on record, with 31% of space available for lease or sublease. In the heart of the city, an astounding 18.4 million square feet of real estate is available  enough space to house 92,000 employees and the equivalent of 13 Salesforce Towers.

The Chronicle mapped and charted every major downtown office buildings vacancy, using data provided by real estate brokerage Lee & Associates.

The surge in empty offices means plenty of options for tenants, a major change compared to early 2020, when the vacancy rate was around 4%. Its also fueled calls for converting offices into housing, or bringing more fun features like bars or roof decks to the workplace.

Some of the emptiest buildings can be tied to cutbacks by tech giants Salesforce and Meta, which have sought to cut costs with mass layoffs and office consolidations.

Salesforce, the citys largest private employer, embraced remote work and has listed offices for lease at 50 Fremont, where 90% of space is vacant, and in Salesforce Tower and 350 Mission St.

Salesforces subsidiary Slack also left its former headquarters at 500 Howard St., which is 95.4% vacant, and listed sublease space at 45 Fremont St., which is 60% vacant.

Meta listed all 435,000 square feet at 181 Fremont, the citys third tallest tower, for sublease, making it 100% vacant.

Another empty building is 345 Montgomery St., part of the former Bank of America complex. Co-working firm Regus scrapped plans to open in the former bank retail space and sought to terminate its lease. Landlord Vornado, which co-owns the property with former President Donald Trump, sued and won after arguing the lease remains active.

That saga was unusually contentious  most major tenants have continued to pay rent even for offices that they arent fully using, and they remain on the hook for space thats listed for sublease if they arent able to find subtenants.

But with more leases expiring this year, the vacancy rate is expected to shoot even higher. That has dire implications for the citys tax base, as property owners have appealed their annual tax bills.

Some landlords are feeling the pain as well. Redco and AEW Capital Management paid $84 million in 2019, near the top of the market, for a historic building at 1 Montgomery St., with plans for a big renovation. The companies lost control of the 98.6% vacant property to their lender in December, the San Francisco Business Times reported.

Lee & Associates sees a big upside in the current market  for tenants, at least.

This is the first time in over a decade where office tenants in San Francisco have had any leverage or negotiating power against landlords. This is an incredible opportunity for tenants to exploit a commercial real estate market that is experiencing a historically high vacancy rate, said Cody Kollmann, founding principal at Lee & Associates.

As for landlords, they need to offer more than just a place to put a table and desk.

The more an office building acts like a hotel, the more office tenants are attracted to it and the more likely they will stay, said David Klein, managing principal at Lee & Associates.

Think lounges, bars, restaurants, roof decks and outdoor parks. Thats exactly the strategy at the Transamerica Pyramid, where owner Michael Shvo is investing $250 million in a renovation of the icon that includes a private club and plans for public eateries. The Pyramid is 36.7% vacant.

I strongly believe the office experience should be at the same level as luxury residential and hospitality, Shvo previously told The Chronicle. In the last two years, weve made our homes into our offices, now its time to make our offices feel like our homes.

Nearby, at the 100% vacant 301 Battery St., former home of the San Francisco Federal Reserve, new owner Aby Rosen is doing his own renovations and contemplating installing a pickleball court.

There are bright spots in the citys economy.

Despite mass global tech layoffs, San Francisco has been only partially hit, and the citys unemployment rate is only 3%, which is higher than 2% last year but minuscule compared to historic trends.

Lots of vacant office space is much better than lots of unemployed people, Ted Egan, the citys chief economist, said in a recent report. Egan thinks the likeliest outcome is office rents drop enough for tenant demand to rise, leading to an eventual recovery.

That drop appears to be happening, though its still unclear whether demand will follow. Annual pricing for lower-tier buildings is around the $50 per square foot range or lower, said Nick Slonek, principal and regional managing director at Avison Young, a real estate brokerage. Thats about two-thirds of the citywide average asking rent of around $75 per square foot, which is already down from around $85 per square foot before the pandemic.

Thats going to be, really, the inflection point in the market, where we see market rents land at what we perceive as an atrocious number today, said Slonek.

Theres currently a bifurcated market as tenants flock to the highest-quality space. Avison Young found that in the highest quality downtown offices located above the 13th floor, so-called view space, the vacancy rate is 7%.

Its very little because there is a flight to quality through most downturns, said Dina Gouveia, Northern California regional lead of innovation and insight at Avison Young.

Long term, Slonek is still optimistic about the Bay Area, citing the diverse economic engines of tech, biotech, finance and world-class universities.

Trying times create opportunities, and I think that its going to create an opportunity for, again, the next driver, a new, new thing, he said.
The fifth Sunday of Easter at St. Ignatius Church offered a reward unavailable during the other four. Parishioners came out after Mass to find scaffolding climbing the south spire, 185 feet above the University of San Francisco.

Im delighted, church member Brian Byrne said as he shielded his eyes from the sun and studied the metal railings and floorboards rising to the sky. The first major renovation of the majestic hilltop church in more than 30 years was finally underway and visible in the framework around the spire points far and wide. Im glad were putting in the investment to make it last another hundred years.

The project will take until 2024 as both spires and the bell tower are eventually covered in scaffolding so the surface can be repaired and repainted. Then the incandescent lighting, much of it burned out, will be replaced by a subtle and environmentally friendly LED design, with the lights capable of changing colors, like Coit Tower and City Hall.

The 43 stained glass windows, which run the length of the church and depict Catholic saints, will be removed and sent to Chicago for refurbishing.

It has to be done, said Ana ODonnell, a parishioner and member of USFs class of 1994. I have no idea what it is costing.

The answer is $22 million, all of which had to be privately raised. Though the church sits on the corner of the USF campus, it is no longer part of the university and received no funding from it for the capital campaign. St. Ignatius Church is also separate from the Archdiocese of San Francisco, which runs the parish-based school system. The church is owned by the Jesuit community and operates independently. The goal of Preservation & Promise, as the campaign is called, is to raise $25 million, with a $3 million cushion for technology upgrades and parish programs. Last week, it hit $24.75 million gleaned from 733 households, many of them personally visited by ambassadors from the capital campaign.

Its a wonderful community, said Byrne, a friendly Australian who served as an ambassador. The fundraising I did was like pushing on open doors.

Justin Katigbak/Special to The Chronicle

The campaign started in July 2020, when the church was still on pandemic lockdown. It was hard to make the point that the building was falling apart to people attending Mass virtually. But, in a fortuitous piece of timing, an atmospheric river arrived just in time for Sunday morning services on Oct. 24, 2021.

It was raining inside the church, pastor Greg Bonfiglio said. Soon a video was posted online of rainwater filling bathtub-size containers. That just confirmed for people the worthiness of the project, he said.

The roof was patched, and it miraculously held for the winter of 2023, the wettest in memory. The rain brought out the rainmaking, and the ceiling for the campaign was raised to $26.8 million to pay for a new sprinkler system in case of fire.

This big building is a blessing and a curse, said Stephen St. Marie, a retired economist who made house calls on behalf of the campaign. Its a blessing because it is so beautiful, and its a curse because it is an expensive building to maintain.

The European Baroque exterior with an Italian Renaissance interior is the third location for St. Ignatius, which dates to 1855, when the Jesuit order opened a Catholic church and academy in a wooden building on Market Street at the corner of Fifth Street. It accommodated students from grade school through college level, and in 1880 it moved to a larger space across Van Ness Avenue, where Davies Symphony Hall now sits. The earthquake and fire of 1906 brought it to the ground.

1942 file photo

Only the cornerstone remained when it was brought west to the last hill before the city slopes off toward the Pacific Ocean. The church stands at 210 feet above sea level. The tips of the spires were the highest structures in San Francisco when the present church opened in 1914.

Until 1969, the Jesuit order provided one-stop higher education for the citys large Catholic population. St. Ignatius high school was on one side of the church, and St. Ignatius College on the other. But in 1930 the college split off to become USF, and in the 1960s the Jesuits received orders from Rome to divest of ownership of high schools. In 1969 the high school outgrew its location, where Koret Health & Recreation Center now sits, and moved west to a huge campus in the Outer Sunset.

The only asset the Jesuit society still owns is St. Ignatius Church. But both USF and St. Ignatius College Prep hold graduation ceremonies there, and it is also the site of funerals for police officers and firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The interior holds about 2,000 people on the main level and balcony.

To mark its 75th anniversary on the hilltop, in 1989, the church was lit for the first time to create a beacon on the hill.

Justin Katigbak/Special to The Chronicle

The church is in the geographic center of the city and can be seen from Nob Hill to Ashbury Heights to Presidio Heights. For decades, the church on the hill was used as a navigation point for ships entering the Golden Gate.

Though this building is a religious and architectural icon in the city, Bonfiglio said, the responsibility to maintain the building has fallen to the parish faith community, and many civic friends of St. Ignatius Church.

The scaffolding began going up the day after Easter, and the southeast spire was covered almost to the top last week. The southwest spire and the bell tower will follow as the entire church becomes surrounded in wrapping for 14 months.

This is the dream as put forth by Bonfiglio at the end of Mass a week after Easter. He described riding his bicycle from the Richmond District up Fulton Avenue, where St. Ignatius comes into view at 10th Avenue. With three years of fundraising in mind, he said, the only thing that could make St. Ignatius Church more beautiful would be to see it covered in scaffolding.
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What if there was a company in Silicon Valley that was already years into applying generative AI technology to real-world scenarios? It would need investors to throw gobs of cash at it before parading its innovative technology on the world stage, because thats how innovation works, right?

Not always. A staggering array of the technologies you may be using to read this article  from the computer mouse to the voice recognition technology known as Siri and even the underpinnings of the internet  werent debuted for investors looking to sink in billions. They were brought to life by a nonprofit situated in an unassuming leafy office complex in Menlo Park called SRI International.

Originally founded in 1946 as Stanford Research Institute, the organization that introduced the rudiments of the personal computer in 1968 eventually broke away as a renamed nonprofit. Defense spending is the reason SRI spun off from Stanford  after student protests against its war work during the Vietnam era, said Margaret OMara, a tech historian and University of Washington history professor at the Seattle campus, in an email.

That work, most of it government-funded, continues today in SRIs labs, where the nonprofit explores advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, space technologies, health research and a host of other areas. The organization has about $400 million in annual revenue  of which it said roughly 85% comes from government funding  with net assets of around $200 million.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

To be clear, SRI isnt alone in these kinds of explorations. Leviathan tech companies like Google and Amazon have moonshot divisions that sink billions into researching far-flung and foundational technologies in the hopes they will provide huge returns down the line.

While the private sectors investment in research and development is huge, the difference is its very focused because it needs to make business sense, said David Parekh, SRIs CEO. SRI uses a different model, building foundational technologies it can license to outside companies, or that it frequently spins off to become companies of their own.

For instance, SRIs robotics group, alone, has produced seven companies in the past 10 years, said Alexander Kernbaum, the robotics labs interim director.

One of those inventions is a black mesh exosuit hanging on a mannequin in a lab littered with wires and gears and the other detritus of innovation. It was designed to give the wearer increased muscle strength and to combat fatigue as part of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA, a challenge that originally brought Kernbaum to the lab.

SRIs SuperFlex Suit used motors and actuators connected to the fibers of the suit that run along muscles to augment their flexing power.

Projects like the exosuit, started out for super soldiers, said SRI Senior Robotics Engineer Reuben Brewer. But those same technologies can also be used for rehabilitation after an injury or stroke, Brewer said.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

Once the government-funded portion of the project was over, a venture capitalist visiting the lab saw the model and said,  Im funding that,  Kernbaum said. That is now the Menlo Park company Seismic, which has more than $23 million in venture funding and develops versions of the suit.

Youll see a pattern in the way we work, Kernbaum said. A lot of the early research we discover is government-funded, the really sort of moonshot stuff, before it finds its way into the world and the everyday lives of millions of people.

Other lab innovations like the Abacus Drive  a kind of highly efficient rolling gear transmission that can allow a robotic arm, for example, to more smoothly pick up and put down objects  have been licensed out to companies to become part of the next generation of robotics.

What the robotics lab is perhaps best known for was an almost literal moonshot: A telerobotic surgery system originally dreamed up with the help of NASA funding in the 1980s so doctors on Earth could perform emergency operations on astronauts on the International Space Station.

That technology never made it to space, but formed the technology base for the Da Vinci surgical robot and Sunnyvale-based Intuitive Surgical, an S&P 500 company valued at more than $100 billion.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

Another example is SRIs sleep lab, complete with fully equipped bedrooms for sleep studies run by Fiona Baker, director of the organizations health sciences center and its Human Sleep Research Program.

A focus on how womens sleep and health changes with age led to the creation of another company, Lisa Health, based in Oakland.

While the venture-backed model of tech innovation is often more visible and comes with more marketing hype, many of those truly world-altering technologies were born in these Menlo Park labs.

One area where that has come sharply into focus is with so-called generative artificial intelligence like ChatGPT and Midjourney, which can be used by just about anyone to get fluent answers to queries or to create detailed visual renderings from a simple prompt.

SRIs AI lab had been working with that type of technology for years before it exploded into the public consciousness late last year.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

An SRI project with Obayashi Corp., one of the largest construction companies in Japan, and in development periodically since 2019, applies generative AI so that an architect can input a building sketch idea and have a program spit out a range of building design ideas.

Called AiCorb, the program has two components: AiCorb Designer, which converts sketches to images, and AiCorb Modeler, which converts 2D images to 3D structures.

The program hasnt been used to build any real-life buildings yet, but makes it much easier to change the number of floors in the structure, window height and all these things, without having to use complex engineering software, said Anirban Roy, a computer vision scientist working on the project at SRI.

Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes

But instead of replacing architects and designers, these tools will really be game changers in terms of just broadening  our scope, getting us to think about things we might not otherwise have considered, said Karen Myers, the lab director for SRIs Artificial Intelligence Center.

That includes applications like envisioning buildings with very different shapes, like the Pokemon character Pikachu. Senior AI Center Computer Scientist Eric Yeh did just that, smiling broadly as he dragged and dropped a digital sketch of the cute, rabbit-like creature into the program, causing it to spit out a series of surprisingly believable, albeit eccentric, structures that still bore an uncanny resemblance to the cuddly cartoon creature.

Those exact structures may never be built, but are a use of AI to, like the exosuit, turbocharge human attributes  in this case imagination instead of muscles.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

While AI that generates new images and text may be moving at breakneck speed in the private sector, other forms of the technology, like speech recognition, are still on the lab-to-product track.

The virtual assistant Siri, which was created with DARPA funding at SRI and is now standard software in Apple phones and devices, is one example. Another is IraqComm, a translation tool between English and Iraqi Arabic speakers developed for U.S. forces during the Iraq War.

SRI is working on evolving the technology so it incorporates a headset that can visualize spoken text between two people speaking different languages. Andreas Kathol, a Senior Research Linguist at SRIs Speech Technology and Research lab, demonstrated how the program can be trained to use AI to smooth out prickly social cues and words that may be tame in one language, but offensive in another.

For instance, an English speaker wearing the headset might say damn, but the system catches it and does not translate it directly into Mandarin, where Yeh said it would roughly mean, You deserve death.

That research comes out of a larger DARPA program to help U.S. military operators communicate in other countries and languages, but its not hard to see how the technology could be just as useful at home in an urban, polyglot setting.

Some of these technologies may be years or decades from sitting in commuters palms while they idly wait for the next train. And as Parekh, the SRI CEO, said, huge leaps forward come about only every once in a while.

I think what has changed in a big way is the access to information, the speed by which we can process it, our ability to connect more broadly. But fundamentally, innovation still has remained the same, Parekh said.
The Bay Area is creeping toward a warm-up this week, but will have to endure more unseasonably cool weather before getting there. Parts of the region have seen their coldest beginning to May this century, and the week starts off with high temperatures expected at 5 to 10 degrees below normal.

Light rain showers and morning fog also will be around before a warm-up arrives with the weekend.

The average high temperature in San Francisco for the first six days of May was 60.2 degrees, the coldest beginning to the month since 1975s average of 58.5 in the same time frame. It wont get much warmer until Thursday and Friday, the forecast shows, with highs barely surpassing 60 in the city.

A sign of change

This weeks area of low pressure isnt as strong as the system that brought widespread rain showers and even some thunderstorms to parts of the Bay Area last week. The weaker system means fewer showers and slightly warmer temperatures.

The weather pattern is expected to flip by the end of the week, when a ridge of high pressure supplants the low pressure and blocks Pacific storms from landfalling in California. Mostly clear skies and warm temperatures will return to the Bay Area by Friday.

Warm temperatures will also impact the Sierra Nevada, where warmer days and overnight lows above freezing will accelerate snowmelt and potentially more flooding by the weekend.

According to the California Nevada River Forecast Center, no rivers are expected to reach flood stage during the week.

On tap this week

The week begins with a round of light rain during the Monday morning commute. Weather models predict less than a tenth of an inch of accumulation, and rain tapering off in the afternoon. Temperatures will be about 5 degrees below normal, with upper 50s near the coast and mid-60s inland.

A gradual warm-up is in store for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. High temperatures will increase a few degrees each day, for low 60s at the coast and low 70s inland by Thursday. Morning fog is expected throughout the week. Light drizzle cannot be ruled out, particularly at the coast.

A big temperature spike is expected Friday, when Diablo Winds will warm San Francisco and Oakland, up to near 70 degrees, and Santa Rosa, Livermore and the Santa Clara Valley into the low 80s.

Monday breakdown

San Francisco: Some light rain showers are expected around sunrise and into the morning commute, with just a few hundredths of an inch sprinkled across the city. Gusts up to 20 mph are possible for Portola, Potrero Hill and the Embarcadero.

The showers will diminish by the afternoon, giving way to mostly sunny skies. The sun will help warm temperatures into the low 60s for downtown, Noe Valley, South of Market and the Mission. A light breeze will keep highs in the upper 50s for the Presidio and the Richmond and Sunset districts.

Overnight, shallow fog is expected to engulf the Golden Gate Bridge and spread around Twin Peaks. Overnight lows will bottom out near 50.

Peninsula and Pacific Coast: Mostly cloudy skies and some light rain will greet morning commuters along I-280 and Hwy 101. Conditions are expected to dry out by the afternoon.

Afternoon temperatures for Daly City, Pacifica and Half Moon Bay will climb toward 60, along with a light breeze. Warmer weather is expected closer to the bay: low 60s for Millbrae and San Bruno and mid-60s in San Mateo and Redwood City.

Temperatures will drop toward 50 degrees overnight with a west wind drawing in some low clouds and fog for Tuesday morning.

North Bay: A line of light rain will move from west to east Monday morning, starting around 4 a.m. for Marin and Sonoma counties, and by 7 a.m. for Napa and Solano counties. Precipitation totals are expected to be around a tenth of an inch for Santa Rosa and St. Helena with lesser amounts in Napa and Fairfield.

The widespread rain will turn to showers before clearing out by late afternoon. Highs will be in the low to mid-60s for Novato and San Rafael and the Santa Rosa, Petaluma and Napa valleys. Temperatures will struggle to reach 60 degrees near the water in Sausalito and Vallejo.

Wet ground left by Monday showers will allow for overnight fog development into Tuesday morning, with lows dropping into the upper 40s.

East Bay: Light rain showers are expected for I-880 and Bay Bridge morning commuters and across Richmond, Berkeley and Oakland. Wind gusts up to 20 mph along the San Francisco Bay will accompany the sprinkles. The rain will taper off during the early afternoon after accumulation of just a few hundredths of an inch.

Highs will reach the low 60s in Oakland, Fremont and other cities along I-880. The I-680 corridor is likely to avoid the sprinkles and see more sunshine, propelling temperatures into the mid-60s for Walnut Creek, Dublin and Livermore.

Overnight temperatures will bottom out near 50 degrees with some fog possible around the San Francisco and San Pablo bays.

South Bay and Santa Cruz: Although the low-pressure system is too far away to match last weeks heavy rains, a few light sprinkles cannot be ruled out for the Santa Cruz Mountains during the morning commute. Weather models are predicting less than a tenth of an inch of rain.

The Santa Clara Valley should remain mostly dry thanks to the rain shadow from the Santa Cruz Mountains, but a few stray sprinkles could wet the ground during the morning.

High temperatures will reach the upper 60s for Palo Alto, San Jose and Santa Clara with mostly sunny skies by the afternoon. In Santa Cruz, south wind gusts up to 20 mph will keep temperatures closer to 60 degrees under partly cloudy skies. Fog is likely to develop overnight, with overnight lows in the upper 40s.

Anthony Edwards is a contributing meteorologist for The San Francisco Chronicle.
Randy Faris/Getty Images

Five people, including a 16-year-old, were hit by gunfire and seriously injured in Redwood City, a suburb of San Francisco, early Sunday, officials said.

Details on the shooting are sparse. The Redwood City Police Department said shots were fired on the 400 block of Redwood Avenue by an unidentified male suspect. He approached a group of people who were drinking on the sidewalk and opened fire with a 9mm handgun, the department said.
Zaporizhstal and Metinvest Group, as part of the Steel Front military initiative of Rinat Akhmetov, handed over two modern DJI Mavic 3 reconnaissance drones to the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

According to the information of the enterprise, the transfer of drones took place last week.

"Ukrainian defenders use drones for reconnaissance, correction or destruction. However, their first and most important mission is to contribute to the preservation of the lives of the personnel of the Ukrainian armed forces. That is why there are never many drones, and we systematically transfer these "birds" to our defenders. Two more Mavics from Zaporizhstal and Metinvest are sent to the National Guard," Zaporizhstal's procurement director Yevhen Avdzhi commented on the situation.

At the same time, it is specified that the DJI Mavic 3 is the most needed and popular drone model in the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which helps identify and destroy the enemy on the front line. The copter is used for reconnaissance and fire adjustment. The competitive advantage of this model is excellent optics and navigation. Two new Mavics have already been delivered to the Donetsk direction.

Zaporizhstal is one of the largest industrial enterprises in Ukraine, whose products are in great demand among consumers both in the domestic market and in many countries of the world. The plant specializes in high-quality hot-rolled steel coil, hot-rolled sheet, cold-rolled sheet, cold-rolled coil made of carbon and low-alloy steels, as well as steel strip, black tin, bent profile.

The main consumers of products are manufacturers of welded pipes, enterprises of automotive, transport, agricultural engineering, and manufacturers of household appliances.

Zaporizhstal is in the process of integrating into Metinvest Group, the main shareholders of which are PrJSC System Capital Management (71.24%) and Smart Holding (23.76%).

Metinvest Holding LLC is the management company of Metinvest Group.
Two estranged brothers are dead after one reportedly drove from California to Utah, shot the other dead on his doorstep, shot his brothers wife, and set the house on fire, before being gunned down by police, authorities said. Video footage from the victims doorbell camera of the killing, which occurred on the evening of Thursday, April 27, on a quiet suburban street in the city of North Ogden, was shared by police this weekend.

The footage reportedly shows Jeffrey Roberts, 66, of Long Beach approaching the home and ringing the doorbell. (The linked footage is disturbing; viewer discretion is advised.) Scott Roberts can be heard, but not seen, in the video answering the door and having a short conversation with his brother about their mother, before Jeffrey Roberts pulls a gun from his black hoodie. Several gunshots and screaming can be heard.

The occupants of the home, Scott Roberts and his wife, were eating dinner alone when Jeffrey Roberts arrived, the Weber County Attorneys Office said in a statement accompanying the video.

A 911 call made by an unnamed next door neighbor who heard the gunshots has also been shared. It sounded like gunshots, the caller says.

And there was a guy who walked out of the house, the caller added.  A male with a brown van.  Hes still there.

The footage then allegedly shows Jeffrey Roberts returning to the house with a shotgun and bag. Five minutes later, Roberts can be seen talking with someone on his cellphone as a fire alarm wails. Empty my bank accounts as quick as you can, Roberts can be heard saying.

Preliminary investigation shows that Jeffrey Roberts began to fire on police as they arrive on the scene, police said in the statement.

The footage then shows Roberts emerging from the home brandishing a 9mm handgun in a hail of gunfire, before falling forward onto the yard. Officers can be heard yelling cease fire, before slowly approaching Roberts.

Only one of the three officers on the scene was able to activate his body camera, according to police. That body camera footage was also shared and shows the shootout from the officers angle, and blood pooling around Roberts body. Flames can then be seen through the homes window. I dont think we can go inside with this smoke, an officer can be heard saying.

Police say that prior to their arrival, Roberts started a fire in the home with road flares. He was also reportedly carrying 23 fully loaded handgun magazines, a 12-gauge shotgun and more than 150 shotgun shells.

Weber County Attorney's Office

A drone shot taken by police after the fire reveals extensive damage to the home from above. Bullet holes allegedly from Roberts gunfire are shown both on the porch and the mailbox behind which one of the officers took cover, and also on a police car and neighbors garage door.

The homeowner, Scott Roberts died as a result of gunshot wounds inflicted by Jeffrey Roberts, police said in the statement. Scott Roberts wife, Jodi Roberts, was also shot and reportedly receiving medical treatment for her injuries.

The motive for the killing is not clear. A GoFundMe page set up by Scott and Jodis daughter, Kelsey Turner, described her father and uncles relationship as estranged.

For those of you who dont know, my dads estranged brother showed up at my parents house, killed my dad, and set the house on fire, Turner wrote. My mom is alive because my dad fought my uncle and told my mom to run. Knowing that my dad died a hero is bringing us a small bit of comfort.

Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this incident, North Ogden police said in a Facebook post. We are grateful our amazing police officers are safe and hope the community is able to come together to help those involved heal physically and emotionally from this traumatic event.
It's been six months since Bob Iger canceled his retirement and stepped back into the top role at Disney to right a number of perceived wrongs under his handpicked successor, with one hovering right near the top: reconnecting with the Disney theme park die-hards and restoring their faith in the brand.

Among his first acts as returning chief executive, Iger walked the Disneyland and California Adventure parks in Anaheim, California with Josh DAmaro, chairman of Disney parks, experiences, and products. And there was Iger at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort, talking to guests and cast members alike and taking a personal interest in new projects that are underway.

When Iger rejoined Disney as CEO in November, taking over control of the company from Bob Chapek, it was met with great fanfare by park loyalists who openly criticized Chapek on social media throughout his tenure.

The perception among many fans is that Chapek had a business first, customer last mentality. Rising prices and reduced services rankled Disney devotees who felt that the magic is gone.

Shortly after Iger's return, changes were rolling out at U.S. parks. Disney would no longer charge for overnight self-parking at its Walt Disney World resorts. Walt Disney World annual passholders would be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without a reservation (with some exceptions). There would also be free digital downloads of photos on rides for guests using Disney's Genie+ planning and ride reservation service.

Character meet-and-greets have been ramped up again and new Disney characters being added. The annual pass at Disney World is back.

I think that in our zeal to grow profits, we may have been a little bit too aggressive about some of our (theme park) pricing. And I think there is a way to continue to grow that business, but be smarter about how we price so that we maintain that brand value of accessibility, Iger said during the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom conference in March.

Keeping all of Disney's faithful happy at its parks will always be a big ask, said Brandon Nispel, a senior equity analyst at KeyBanc.

Even lowering ticket prices is not a universal win. Some will cheer cheaper entry, while others will complain about the big crowds that less expensive tickets bring with them.

Theyre going to always frustrate half the people, half the time, Nispel said.

And then there's Disney's ongoing battle with the governor of Florida.

Iger's has attempted to protect Disney World's theme park district from a takeover by Governor Ron DeSantis. Disney sued DeSantis in late April, alleging the governor waged a targeted campaign of government retaliation after the company opposed a law critics call  Dont Say Gay. Disney's legal filing is the latest salvo in a more than year-old feud between the company and DeSantis.

Keeping politics at bay and upping the energy at parks is crucial to Disney at a time when its profit and revenue growth have slowed and profit margins at parks softened. By early November 2022, shortly before Chapek departed, Disney's stock had dropped about 50% from a year earlier.

Solid growth at Disney parks helped to offset tepid video streaming and movies performances during the company's first quarter. Sales at its parks, experiences and products segment grew 21% in the period, while revenue for the segment that includes Disneys movie business only edged up 1%.

Parks are the most critical business Disney has from my perspective, Nispel said.

The amount of money the parks generate keeps all eyes on the operations, especially Iger's.

We're listening to guest feedback and we're continuously working to improve the quality and value of their experience, Iger said during Disney's most recent earnings call.

And those improvements will continue into next year, with Disney announcing on Monday that some big updates are in store for Walt Disney World, including the return of Disney dining plans and offering some days that annual passholders and Disney cast members can visit Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation.

Disney dining plans will return as an option for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels who buy a vacation package with arrivals starting in early January. Guests will be able to choose from the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan.

Theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets, also beginning on Jan. 9, 2024. Date-based tickets are the standard ticket option for guests. Non-dated tickets and other admission types may still require park reservations.

Disney said it will also continue to offer early theme park entry to Disney resort guests for visits through next year and is working on ways for park goers to be able to plan with its Genie+ service and individual Lightning Lane selections before the day of their park visit.

Watching with rising interest along with parkgoers are investors, who saw the companys shares tumble during Chapeks last year. Walt Disney Co. will post second quarter earnings results on Wednesday.

On Monday, shares of Disney, based in Burbank, California, rose nearly 3%
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HOUSTON (AP)  Crews have finally extinguished a fire at a Houston-area petrochemical plant that had been burning on and off for days, according to Shell, which operates the plant.

Fire fighters first responded to the blaze at the Deer Park facility on Friday afternoon. On Saturday morning, Shell said the fire had been extinguished. But a few hours later, Shell announced the fire had reignited.

The fire was finally extinguished on Sunday night, Shell spokeswoman Natasha Qamar said Monday. The reignited fire was contained in a controlled area.

Air monitoring is ongoing and has not detected any harmful levels of chemicals affecting neighboring communities. There is no danger to the nearby community, Shell said.

The city of Deer Park did not issue a shelter-in-place order for residents during the fire.

The fire had started at plants olefins unit, which makes plastics and rubber. The unit was undergoing routine maintenance at the time of the fire.

Nine workers who were sent to a hospital were released after undergoing precautionary medical evaluations. The cause of the blaze remained under investigation.

Shell said Sunday that the large amount of water being used to extinguish the blaze had exceeded the plants wastewater storage capacity and was being released into the Houston Ship Channel.

A floating barrier or boom was being used to prevent any chemical products from the plant from running off with the wastewater and contaminating the channel, Qamar said.

After some rain on Sunday, a light sheen was seen outside the boom but it has been cleaned up, Shell said.

Our teams are working around the clock to verify the environmental and safety precautions of the actions taken thus far, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, the countys top elected official, said in a statement Sunday night.

Local environmental groups were not reassured by Shells statements that the community was not in danger.

History has shown that these early statements are for the benefit of industry public relations and not public health, said Jennifer Hadayia, executive director of Air Alliance Houston.

Facility fires are not uncommon in the area, with the large presence of the petrochemical industry. In March, an explosion and a fire erupted at a facility owned by INEOS Phenol in nearby Pasadena, Texas, leaving one injured.

A fire in 2019 at a facility owned by Intercontinental Terminals Company burned for days and though it caused no injuries, it triggered air quality warnings. ___

Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
NEW YORK (AP)  Signet Jewelers Ltd., considered the world's largest retailer of diamond jewelry, still shines in a sector where stubbornly high inflation has tempered shoppers' overall willingness to spend on baubles.

Like many jewelry chains, Signet has seen some shoppers, particularly in the lower-income bracket, pull back. But the chain, which operates 2,800 stores under such banners as Kay Jewelers, Zales and Peoples, reported in March fourth-quarter earnings results that beat analysts' expectations, and it offered a solid annual profit forecast. It's also focusing on higher-income consumers as the economy weakens.

In April, the Bermuda-based company said its goal is to reach as much as $10 billion in annual sales within the next five years, up from $7.8 billion in the latest year ended Jan. 28 That growth should be fueled by a continued rebound in U.S. engagements and demand for pricier jewelry. Shares of Signet are up 2% so far this year.

Signet's Group President and Chief Consumer Officer Jamie Singleton recently spoke with The Associated Press about how the pandemic shaped buying habits; moves to diverse its ranks and its supply chain network. Signet rocked the diamond industry in March 2022 when it said it will no longer buy diamonds from Russia after the country invaded Ukraine. Singleton also discussed one of the hottest fashion trends  men embracing jewelry. Her responses have been edited for clarity and length.

Q. What's your customers' approach to buying jewelry for their loved ones?

A. Our proprietary research is showing that considered purchases  sentimental purchases over $1,000 are outperforming all of the other categories that we have. Our customers are still wanting bigger diamonds, better quality, higher carat gold. Coming out of the pandemic... people have a tighter circle of meaningful friends and loved ones in their life, and theyre still showing grand gestures of love and appreciation and sentimentality in their life. It's not limited to men gifting to women. There's a range of women gifting beautiful jewelry to men in their lives.

Q. How has Signet increased diversity among executives and in the boardroom?

A. We need a team of women and people of color. We need a team of young parents who need flexibility. I think the work we have done there is among the work we are most proud of. Forty-two percent of our board of directors are women. Two of the 12 are Black. And 42% of those holding the title of VP and above are women. We need to relate to one another's lives.

Q. What happened when Russia invaded Ukraine?

A. We really consider ourselves to be customers advocates, and we have an incredibly strong supply chain. When the war started, we were the first to make sure that we were not bringing diamonds that were mined in Russia into our products. We worked closely with our vendors to be able to control prices and be able to bring great value to our customers.

Q. How do you vet your suppliers?

A. We're founding members of the Responsible Joint Council, founded in 2005. And we are active member of the World Diamond Council. We put a lot of police work in our supply chain. Last year was the first year of our 10 year journey towards achieving our corporate sustainability goals with a focus on environmental, social and governance. (These are) 44 goals aligned with the U.N.

Q. Last year was the year of the wedding. What about this year?

A. The year of the anniversary. A lot of people celebrate their first anniversary this year. But we are beginning to see some of the normalization. And as people set priorities, jewelry is remaining a high priority on peoples lists.

Q. Are you preparing for a recession?

A. We do prepare for all kinds of scenarios. We have people at the high end and people at the more moderate end. And last year, what we experienced with our more value-based shoppers is that the impact of a recession felt very, very real to them. We really worked hard to value engineer products and give them more for their money. We also worked on giving them easier options to finance.

Q. What's one big trend in jewelry right now?

A.. We're in a real fashion cycle in men. The younger generation of men have their ears pierced, and theyre wearing stacks and layered jewelry. These are men with a point of view on fashion and in the way that they want to look. Men's fashion is trending hard, and I don't see it stopping or slowing down.

Q. What's selling well ahead of Mother's Day?

A. Across all banners, we continue to see demand for both mined and lab-created diamonds across engagement and fashion jewelry. Fancy shapes over 1 carat including marquise and emerald are hot trends in engagement rings, and fashion is all about bold, classic looks in solitaire earrings, and line bracelets and necks. Customers are also really focusing on the classics and their jewelry box essentials.

Q. Are Signet employees back at the office?

A. We are hybrid. We have a workforce that is in and out of the office to some degree by job function. And then we have some days where we all, as a company, come into the office and have time together in the office as a team and will continue to do that. But we do believe that theres value in face-to-face interactions.

______ Follow Anne DInnocenzio: http://twitter.com/ADInnocenzio
In November 2019, Michael Pinette applied for a permit to grow cannabis on his 50-acre property in the foothills of California's Sierra Nevada. Pinette wanted to replace a poorly performing patch of zinfandel wine grapes with cannabis. So, he filed his permit with the local El Dorado County government, paid all of the applicable fees and waited to get the green light to legally grow cannabis.

More than three years later, hes still waiting.

Pinette, who estimated hes spent over $100,000 in county fees so far, said the local government has made him navigate years of paperwork, meetings and extensive waiting periods. He said it feels like the system is designed to make pot farming in El Dorado County, which stretches from the outskirts of Sacramento to the Nevada border and includes South Lake Tahoe, prohibitively expensive.

I think theyre abusing the process, and they're abusing their duties as supervisors and sheriffs, Pinette told SFGATE. Theyre proud of the fact that its very difficult to get through this process. Theyre essentially saying they dont want it.

Cannabis farmers have been fighting for years to legally grow pot in this rural county. Voters overwhelmingly approved cannabis farming in a series of 2018 ballot initiatives, but the local government has so far issued only one cultivation permit, according to Carla Hass, a spokesperson for El Dorado County.

Hass said in an email that the county is supportive of the commercial cannabis industry, and she defended the approval process, describing the delays as standard business licensing issues.

[Cannabis cultivation permits] are processed no differently than any other discretionary application that El Dorado County has review authority over, Hass wrote in an email.

Local farmers say the delays are effectively shutting the industry down and are another example of how Californias local cannabis laws have been weaponized to hurt the newly legal industry.

California, like many states, has given local governments nearly complete control over approving cannabis businesses. But pot business owners say that has created opportunities for corruption, blocked most of the state from access to pot retailers and severely slowed down the approval process in the places where pot businesses are allowed.

Poison pill regulations

When California legalized adult-use cannabis in 2018, it gave local governments the right to self-regulate the cannabis industry. This allowed local voters and politicians to choose how they wanted to accept the legal pot industry into their communities  and if they wanted to allow pot at all.

But while El Dorado Countys residents have said a resounding yes to legalizing outdoor pot farms  the 2018 ballot initiative to legalize farms passed with over 59% of the vote  the countys regulations for pot farms contain many poison pills that make it impossible for most farmers to get a permit, according to Lee Tannenbaum, a hopeful pot farmer who said he has paid the county over $200,000 in permitting fees since he filed his initial application in 2019. Last month, he finally received his permit, the first in the county.

County law requires that farms be powered with 100% renewable energy and that all pot plants be blocked from public view, and no farms are permitted within 1,500 feet of sensitive sites like churches or school bus stops. The county also requires that farms have someone on call to respond within two hours to the countys questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or risk being in violation of the law. Setback requirements also mean pot farmers must secure massive properties just to grow a relatively small amount of cannabis. Pinette said he is barely able to fit a 1-acre pot farm on his 50-acre property because the county requires an 800-foot gap between any pot plant and the property line.

The Washington Post/The Washington Post via Getty Im

Tannenbaum said his property met these strict requirements, but the El Dorado County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors forced him to jump through even more hoops. He spent $25,000 widening a public road to provide fire department access, and he said the county attempted to make him spend $10,000 more on a county regrading permit even though he wasnt doing any regrading on the property.

Hass, the county spokesperson, said the county is only following through on voter-enacted measures. She blamed the delays in granting farm licenses on applicants not being able to complete California Environmental Quality Act studies, which are used to evaluate the environmental impacts of new projects, and needing more time to comply with the countys odor control requirements. (All members of the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors, as well as the El Dorado County Planning Commission, declined to be interviewed for this story.)

In April, Tannenbaums Cybele Holdings company became the first business to get a cultivation permit from the county. He said hes hopeful to get his business off the ground, even though its taken years longer than he originally expected.

We have hired a really good master grower, and we have a plan that I believe will allow us to be successful, as long as the county stops messing around with us and allows us to open and run our business, Tannenbaum said.

An abysmal failure

Californias decision to give local governments control over pot licensing has been criticized across the state. Even Gov. Gavin Newsom has said that local authorities should approve pot farms faster to reduce illicit pot farming.

The difficulties over local control have extended to the Northern California counties that have traditionally been home to the states pot industry. In Mendocino County, one of three counties that make up the world-famous Emerald Triangle cannabis growing region, 92% of farmers are still using temporary licenses that are at risk of being denied by the state. Local farmers blame the county government and warn that the situation has put the local pot farming industry on the brink of irreversible failure.

Tannenbaum said the ultimate problem is that California gave local governments across the state too much power over the newly legal industry.

Local control has been an abysmal failure. You can see it in Mendocino. You can see it here in El Dorado County. The state has allowed for local control, and the local control has turned it into a steaming pile of crap that doesn't work. Its awful, Tannenbaum said.

El Dorado Countys tough stance on legal pot farming hasnt kept pot out, though. Illegal cannabis farms have operated in the regions rugged terrain for decades, and a report by the countys own sheriffs department says the farms have only increased since legalization.

alacatr/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Confrontations with illegal pot farms have sometimes turned violent. In 2019, an El Dorado County deputy was killed while investigating an illegal pot farm. Former Sheriff John DAgostini, who retired last year, blamed the killing on the state's pot legalization and immigration enforcement policies.

But Pinette and other local farmers say the sheriffs office has encouraged the illegal industry by being one of the biggest roadblocks for farmers who want to go legal.

El Dorado County requires the sheriffs signoff on any new pot farm, but for years, the sheriff took no action, leaving legal farms in limbo. DAgostinis office blamed the federal government for not allowing them to use a special federal background check system. The growers alliance said the sheriffs office was only attempting to delay the process and said background checks should take days, not years, to complete. (The El Dorado County Sheriffs Department did not respond to multiple SFGATE requests for comment.)

Hass, the county spokesperson, said in an email that the county learned in February 2021 that it could not use the federal background check system but then acted swiftly to resolve the problem by using a different background check system.

The pot applicants say the sheriffs background check process has been anything but swift. It took more than two years for Tannenbaums background check to be completed, which wasnt done until April of this year.

Pinette said the sheriffs office has yet to process his background check. He said if his license is delayed for another month, he will miss this years growing season  the third consecutive season hes missed since he first filed an initial application with the county.

The delays may have cost El Dorado millions of dollars in lost tax revenue, too. The lengthy approval process appears to be reducing how many farms want to go legal: In 2020, the county said 25-30 farming applications were pending, but now, three years later, only 13 applications are awaiting approval, according to Hass.

Finally, Tannenbaum said, the countys cumbersome process is a violation of the voters will.

The voters of El Dorado County voted overwhelmingly for cannabis cultivation to be legalized in the county.  What the county should have done is what the people voted for, Tannenbaum said. The supervisors and county staff basically snubbed their nose at what the voters wanted and did what they wanted, not what the people wanted, and that, to me, is just egregious.
Tony Shi Photography/Getty Images

The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) issued a Water Quality Advisory warning last Friday to tourists and residents to avoid the water at Kailua Bay. Between April 8 and May 4, the agency reported 13 days of wastewater discharges that exceed the states permitted enterococcus bacteria limits, according to a DOH news release. On April 28 and May 1, the dates with the highest levels of bacteria, tests found over six times the limit of bacteria.

Kailua Bay is located on the windward, or eastern coast, of Oahu, a little more than 10 miles from Honolulu, and is a popular destination for swimming and watersports. The affected area stretched almost nine square miles from Mokapu Point to Kailua Beach Park.
NEW YORK (AP)  From just the right book to just the right wheels, there are lots of ways to please all the mothers in your life when their special holiday rolls around.

Some ideas:

TECHNOLOGY

Give the gift of a heartbeat. Bond Heart is a smart necklace in the shape of a heart that allows the wearer to record heart beats and play them back in pulses felt when the bauble is grasped. From a company called Bond Touch, the $99 necklace pairs with iOS and Android phones via Bluetooth. Instructions on how to record heartbeats using the pulse from a finger are included. An app stores multiple heartbeats for playback in the heart.

Reach for a digital camera. Theres one thats great for beginners if mom isnt a pro but would like to be pro-like. Its the Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera for $799.99. Its light, compact, and reviewers rave about how easy it is to use. Comes in black or white. Turn it on and begin. The A+ mode does the rest.

Have at it on pricier options. But in the under $1,000 range, The Strategists Steven John recommends the Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera for its versatility and superfast autofocus abilities, among other things.

BOOKS

The Art of Feminism. This collection of art, illustration, photography and graphic design spans the feminist aesthetic over two centuries. The original book, out in 2018, has been revised to add 60 pages of material. It's an in-depth examination of the subject, from the suffragists and Judy Chicago to Zanele Muholi and Andrea Bowers. Chronicle Books. $45. Consultant editor Helena Reckitt. Written by Lucinda Gosling, Hilary Robinson and Amy Tobin.

Head of Household: A Journal for Single Moms. Beth Raymer, a single mom, has put together words of inspiration from famous single mothers, prompts aimed at reflection, and ways to help their lives go easier. What are the top five things you wish people understood or acknowledged about your single-mom experience? she asks. Some estimates put the number of children in the U.S. being raised by single mothers at 15 million. Princeton Architecture Press. $24.95.

How about a burn book? Emily Rose, host of the podcast It's Become a Whole Thing, has put together The Stuff I Hate Journal. Among the prompts: What's the most condescending remark you've ever received? Who's the person in your life who always has to outdo everyone else? Think of the worst neighbors you've ever had and write the note you'd love to leave on their doorstep. Might be just the thing to help mom take the edge off. Adams Media. $15.99.

SUPPORT ADOPTION

The nonprofit Helpusadopt.org sells beaded bracelets with a gold leaf charm symbolizing the family tree. It gives 100% of its proceeds to its grant program that helps families struggling with the cost of adoption. The bracelets come in a variety of colors and materials, including marble and glass. They're also accentuated by gold beads with the group's Help Us Adopt signature. Available at Helpusadopt.org. Prices range from $50 for a single bracelet to $175 for a stack.

The nonprofit Jockey Being Family Foundation, which funds post-adoption support, benefits from the sale of a plush bear, because why shouldn't mom have her own stuffed animal? Jockey sets aside $5 per bear for the foundation's work. There are two bear versions dubbed Sam and Donna. They cost $10 each at Jockey.com.

FOR MOMS WHO ROLL

The folks at Oprah Daily put this bike on the O list for Mother's Day: The Electra Loft 7D. And it's a beaut. At $549.99, it comes in cream and seafoam green. It's lightweight, European style and has seven speeds. Considered a commuter bike, it has an aluminum frame and painted fenders. Tires are slightly wider than traditional road tires. Available at REI.

Consider a new suitcase, either carry-on size or larger. There's a huge selection out there so track down a sale.

Perhaps a balance ball would serve if your gift recipient is still working from home. There's one that comes with a traditional chair, including arms. $237.99. For new moms, a ball could double as a new baby activity.

MISCELLANEOUS GOODNESS

Walking poles are abundant. Jetti Poles go a step further. They're walking poles that add an extra pound each for fuller-body intensity on a stroll or hike. The poles come with rubber soles made of the same material as car tires to help navigate a range of terrains. From Jetti Fitness, the poles come in lengths of petite (5 feet to 5 foot, 3 inches) to extra tall (5 feet, 11 inches to 6 feet, 2 inches). They come in blue, pink and yellow. A carry bag is included.

Don't forget about Pickleball. ProXR has on offer a paddle from Beth Bellamy. The special-edition paddle comes in a white design with a premium fiberglass face for extra pop. A cover is included. Bellamy is ranked No. 1 in senior world pro women's singles. $179.99.

Got a crafter? Solve her storage crisis with the Dreambox. The rolling storage closet is full of adjustable shelving, rods, hooks and boxes. And, to reiterate, it's on wheels so can be stashed when not unfurled. There's lighting built in, along with an adjustable table, with options to add two additional side tables. Comes in two designs in white. Lots of other add-ons are available, like a white magnetic board that can be used to stick metal cutting dies onto. Making dreams come true sometimes doesn't come cheap. The base cost is around $2,500.

___

Follow Leanne Italie on Twitter at http://twitter.com/litalie
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LAS VEGAS (AP)  Authorities were searching Monday afternoon for the person who shot and injured an adult at a middle school in suburban Las Vegas.

Law enforcement officials said during an afternoon news briefing that they had not identified a suspect but consider it an isolated incident with no further threat to the school.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  Deputies shot and killed a man who opened fire on them during a traffic stop in South Carolina, authorities said.

Charleston County Deputy Evan Cubbage was hit three times by gunfire and was treated at a hospital and released, Sheriff Kristin Graziano said at a news conference.

Cubbage pulled over a vehicle about 3:45 p.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 17 near Ravenel, the sheriff said.

After briefly talking to the driver and passenger, Cubbage called for backup, and when the second deputy arrived, the passenger started shooting at them, Graziano said.

Both deputies fired back and James Rakeem Pierce, 28, was killed, authorities said.

Graziano didn't know what prompted the traffic stop.

We were very, very, very lucky today that these two deputies survived this incident, the sheriff said.

Cubbage spent about six hours in the hospital before he was released, authorities said.

The woman driving the car was detained. The State Law Enforcement Division, which is investigating, has not said whether she will face charges.

The traffic stop took place on a rural part of U.S. 17 about 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Charleston.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Marissa A. Harrison, Penn State

(THE CONVERSATION) Researchers such as psychologist Marvin Zuckerman have long noted the morbid curiosity of humans; theres just something about horror and terror that captures our attention.

Indeed, there may be nothing more horrifying  and fascinating  than murder. With my colleague Tom Bowers at Penn State Harrisburg, Ive studied the crimes and characteristics of mass murderers for years, and still, Im alarmed by every reread of each case.

But it wasnt until 2014 when an undergraduate student, Erin Murphy, approached me about studying female serial killers (FSKs) that I realized how little scientific literature existed on this topic. Many routinely hear about male serial killers (MSKs)  the Jeffrey Dahmers and Ted Bundys of true crime lore  and one can indeed find volumes of literature analyzing their killing sprees.

On the other hand, few have heard of Belle Gunness and Nannie Doss, whose crimes were no less heinous: Gunness killed more than 25 people in the late 19th century, including her children and husbands. Doss killed 11 people in the first half of the 20th century, including her own mother and grandson.

After parsing the data, we found that female serial killers do tend to possess a number of unique characteristics.

Middle- and upper-class killers of kin

The research that did exist on FSKs provided some good insight. Fresno State criminologist Eric Hickey  author of Serial Murderers and their Victims  interviewed 64 FSKs in the US, yielding a disturbing portrait of women who poisoned, shot and stabbed countless men, women and children.

Most were white and typically killed between seven and 10 victims. They were more likely to murder family members than strangers. And even though the most prevalent motive for murder was money, most of the murderers were middle- and upper-class.

Other research used smaller samples, but had notable findings. For example, in a 2011 study, Amanda Farrell, Robert Keppel and Victoria Titterington reviewed newspaper reports of 10 American FSKs. They found that FSKs tended to operate for a substantially longer time than did MSKs, while 80% knew their victims. Farrell and her colleagues  along with Deborah Schurman-Kauflin, who interviewed eight FSKs in a 2000 study  pointed out that, ironically, nursing is an occupation thats overrepresented among FSKs.

Fleshing out the profile

So when we decided to study FSKs, we approached the topic with two main goals.

First, we wanted to document the means, motives and histories of these criminals with a larger, more recent sample (the larger the sample size, the more likely the findings and patterns are to reflect true life). Moreover, being psychologists, we found a relative absence of research on the psychology of FSKs.

Like Farrell and her colleagues, we used the mass media approach to study female serial killers.

We found the internet site Murderpedia.org to be a valuable consolidation of media reports of murder, and we found it verifiable 100% of the time. In the end, we collected profiles of 64 female serial killers (the same number Hickey found) who committed their crimes in the US between 1821 and 2008.

Although our findings were limited to information that newspapers chose to include about these women and their crimes, our results lend validity to the mass media approach.

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Along the lines of previous studies, we found that most FSKs were middle- and upper-class.

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Almost all (92%) knew their victims, almost all were white, and their most common means to kill was poison, while the primary motive for murder was money.

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Most of these women had earned college degrees or had attained at least some higher education. They held a wide variety of jobs, ranging from religious teacher to prostitute. Nearly 40% worked in health-related fields as nurses or aides, and about 22% worked in direct caregiving roles (mother and babysitter).

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Most FSKs were married at some point. In fact, these serial killers were serial monogamists  married, on average, twice, and as many as seven times. Where we could ascertain appearance, most were reported to be average to above-average in attractiveness; where we could ascertain religion, 100% were Christian.

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Nearly two-thirds were related to their victims, nearly one-third killed their significant others and about 44% killed their own biological children. More than half the sample killed children, and about one-quarter killed those who were elderly or infirm, those who had little chance of fighting back.

An aberration of unconscious drives?

From an evolutionary perspective, two important pictures emerged.

First, our data (in line with other studies) showed that female serial killers primarily kill for money. Previous research, such as Eric Hickeys, has shown that male serial killers primarily kill for sex.

This aligns with evolutionary psychological theory. Robert Trivers 1972 work pointed out that due to their limited reproductive potential (relatively few ova), women have evolved to place a premium on securing resources (likely through wise mate choices in the ancestral environment). Conversely, virtually unlimited reproductive potential (relatively unlimited sperm) has likely predisposed men to seek a vast number of sexual opportunities.

Of course, Im not saying we evolved to be serial killers. What I am saying is that an aberration of genetically mediated unconscious drives might explain some of the reasons for these crimes. These urges could also explain some of the differences between male serial killers and female serial killers.

Second, research has shown that male serial killers tend to stalk and kill strangers. But FSKs tend to kill people they know. It seems, then, that MSKs are hunters and FSKs are gatherers. Although aberrant, this evinces the psyche operating much like the conditions of our ancestral environment.

So, do we know for sure what makes a woman turn into a serial killer? Sadly, no. Even though brain imaging studies, such as psychologist Adrian Raines, do point to some trends, we cant predict this with certainty.

Nonetheless, were clearly fascinated by murder, and perhaps morbid curiosity operates from an innate drive to pay attention to phenomena that can ultimately harm us. Creating an informed profile of the typical female serial killer will, we hope, lead to further analysis and, possibly, prevention.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/how-evolutionary-psychology-may-explain-the-difference-between-male-and-female-serial-killers-41659.
LONGMEADOW, Mass.  One person died and three others were injured in a multi-car crash on Interstate 91 near the border of Connecticut and Massachusetts early Sunday morning, police said.

Massachusetts State Police Trooper James D. DeAngelis said the crash happened on I-91 northbound around 3 a.m. Sunday just over the Connecticut border in Longmeadow, Mass.
The Texas congressman who represents the latest community reeling from a mass killing has pushed back against Americans who say more than prayers are needed to curb the violence, labeling them "people that don't believe in an almighty God."

Rep. Keith Self (R) appeared on CNN on Saturday after a gunman killed at least eight people, including children, at an outlet mall in the Dallas suburb of Allen. His response to a question about prayer not preventing such tragedies immediately fueled anger - with many on social media slamming his words as "meaningless" and "pathetic."

It is God "who is absolutely in control of our lives," said Self, who identified himself as a Christian and stressed that he wanted "to stay away from politics" and focus on the victims. "Prayers are important, and they are powerful in the families who are devastated right now."

Self was among those quick to offer prayers after Saturday's shooting, in which seven people also were wounded. "We are devastated by the tragic news of the shootings that took place at the Allen Premium Outlets today," he wrote on social media.

Self told CNN's Paula Reid that a lack of mental health support was part of the problem. "We have people  with mental health that we're not taking care of," he said. Self spoke before authorities had publicly identified the shooter or released information about what may have led to the rampage.

Shannon Watts, who founded the advocacy group Moms Demand Action after the Sandy Hook killings more than a decade ago, countered Sunday that "faith without works is dead. Prayers without action are empty."

She called on Self to do more to protect Americans. Mass killings like the latest in Allen are "the logical outcome of lawmakers giving unvetted, untrained civilians unfettered access to arsenals and ammunition."

Self told The Washington Post later Saturday that "the immediate aftermath is not the time for politics. We have long ago traded faith in God, which means civic action based on that faith, for faith in government."

Instead of limiting gun rights, Self said, local governments need to be free to better defend public spaces from armed criminals.

"If we are going to have people in our society who wantonly murder people, we are going to have to think about more protection - protecting our schools and soft targets like malls. That is the direction we need to be going: What are we going to do to protect ourselves? Unless we develop some civic conscience which means people don't murder 5-year-olds, then we need to protect society."

He said arming public school employees - as some Texas schools allow - is a good step, but more needs to be done.

"It's going to take a much wider discussion for every locale to decide what they're going to do," he said. "How are we going to stop the criminals? Because I want to target the criminals."

Self called proposals to restrict gun rights, such as raising the age at which people can purchase AR-15-style rifles, "a knee-jerk reaction that does not stop criminals."

Self told CNN that "of course" he is concerned about the rise of violence but that his district is "very safe."

Statewide, Texas has witnessed a steady rise in the number of firearm deaths, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lawmakers there have expanded access to guns in recent years, with residents now allowed to carry handguns in public without a license.

Just last week, five family members were gunned down by a neighbor who allegedly stormed their home with an AR-15. A 9-year-old boy was among those killed.

And nearly a year ago, two teachers and 19 students were killed in Uvalde, Tex., by a gunman who terrorized Robb Elementary school for 77 minutes. Since that massacre, more local school districts have considered arming teachers as a way of increasing security.

Self, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, has cited the Second Amendment and its right "to keep and bear Arms" in countering calls for stricter gun laws.

"It is crucial that we not give rise to those who wish to incrementally strip away our right to self-defense," a statement on Self's website reads. "I will remain steadfast against any effort to restrict our Second Amendment rights."

The 70-year-old lawmaker is a former Collin County judge who has represented Texas's 3rd Congressional District since January. During his campaign last year, he said the biggest challenges facing the district were "growth challenges such as transportation, proliferation of drag queen shows that target children and drugs flowing into our area across the border."

Self was one of almost 300 Republicans nationwide who ran for office in 2022 and who had denied or questioned the outcome of the 2020 presidential election, a Washington Post investigation found.

- - -

The Washington Post's Andrea Salcedo, Rachel Pannett, Maria Luisa Paul and Niha Masih contributed to this report.
Tiger Woods's former girlfriend claimed in a court filing that the golfer began dating her when she was his employee, forced her to sign a nondisclosure agreement to keep her job and used a trick by an attorney to break up with her and kick her out of their home.

The allegations stem from an escalating court dispute that is heading to a hearing Tuesday to determine whether the ex-girlfriend, Erica Herman, is bound by the NDA and barred from suing Woods in open court. Woods's lawyers have argued Herman is in violation of the agreement, which requires them to settle all disputes in confidential arbitration.

Herman's lawyer has argued that her court claim against Woods was covered by a federal act negating NDAs in relation to alleged victims of sexual assault and sexual harassment. The lawyer, Benjamin Hodas, wrote in a new filing Friday in circuit civil court in Martin County, Fla., that Woods predicated her employment, and later her housing status, on her relationship with him, which constituted sexual harassment.

"Tiger Woods, the internationally renowned athlete and one of the most powerful figures in global sports, decided to pursue a sexual relationship with his employee, then - according to him - forced her to sign an NDA about it or else be fired from her job," the new filing reads. "And, when he became disgruntled with their sexual relationship, he tricked her into leaving her home, locked her out, took her cash, pets, and personal possessions, and tried to strong-arm her into signing a different NDA."

Woods's agent, Mark Steinberg, did not respond to an email seeking comment Monday. One of Woods's attorneys in the dispute, J.B. Murray, did not respond to messages seeking comment. In court documents, Woods's attorneys have called Herman a "jilted ex-girlfriend who wants to publicly litigate."

In Friday's filing, Hodas said that stance by Woods's representatives was "taken from the classic playbook of powerful men accused of sexual harassment who respond by belittling and insulting their victims."

The filing alleges Woods began a romantic relationship with Herman in 2015, years earlier than he had previously said, and when she was director of operations for his restaurant, The Woods Jupiter.

On Aug. 9, 2017, according to a copy of a contract filed by Woods's attorneys, Herman signed an NDA, and their relationship became public from that point forward, with Herman attending Woods's tournaments and posing for photographs with him and his children. Hodas pointed out that the NDA was signed on the same day Woods signed a plea deal shelving a much-publicized DUI case against him.

Hodas wrote that Herman does not recall signing the contract filed in court. But the lawyer noted that the document appeared to link her relationship with Woods and her job at the restaurant. The contract states Herman was signing the NDA in "consideration for the opportunity to continue to . . . spend time with Eldrick 'Tiger' Woods" and "be employed at the restaurant known as The Woods Jupiter."

"Mr. Woods was Ms. Herman's boss," Hodas wrote. "On Mr. Woods's own portrayal of events, he imposed an NDA on her as a condition to keep her job when she began having a sexual relationship with him. A boss imposing different work conditions on his employee because of their sexual relationship is sexual harassment."

Emails filed in court by Woods's attorneys show that when presented with an NDA in 2017 by Christopher Hubman, Woods's chief financial officer, Herman responded that her "only concern" was "if by chance [Woods] does something that brings our relationship to an end, do I automatically [lose] my job?"

"I don't have any problems with what's in the document because I wouldn't go public or use anything I know to hurt him or the kids but with my whole life in his hands now I would want to have some kind of control over my future in the business," Herman wrote. "If something happened 5-10 years down the road I don't want to be in my 40s heartbroken and jobless."

Hubman replied: "In my mind, your employment by The Woods Jupiter and your personal relationship with TW are two separate items. I don't think the end of one automatically impacts the other . . . although I admit it could be complicated."

Herman ultimately quit working at the restaurant, according to Hodas, under pressure from Woods to "devote herself full-time to their relationship and caring for him and his children." But in October 2022, the court filing claims, Woods told Herman they were going to the Bahamas, and she packed a small bag. But when they got to an airport where a private jet was waiting, according to Herman, Woods instead told her to speak with his attorney and left.

That lawyer - who the court filing says calls himself "Ray Donovan with a pen," referring to the fictional fixer on television - "told her that she was not going anywhere, would never see Mr. Woods again, had been locked out of the house, and could not return," Hodas claimed. "She would not even be able to see the children or her pets again."

Hodas claimed Woods's attorney employed "brutish and high-pressure tactics" to try to get Herman to sign an additional NDA and arbitration agreement, but she refused. Michael D. Holtz, a California attorney who promotes himself on his website as "Ray Donovan with a pen," did not respond to a request seeking comment.

Hodas argued that by breaking Herman's tenancy agreement with Woods's trust that owns the mansion where he and his children live, Woods "made the availability of her housing conditional on her having sexual relationship with a co-tenant" - which Hodas called sexual harassment.

In October, Herman sued the trust, alleging that she was unlawfully evicted from her home and that the trust's "agents" had "misappropriated in excess of $40,000 in cash that belonged to her" while "making scurrilous and defamatory allegations about how she obtained the money."

After Woods's attorneys responded that she could not sue because of the terms of her NDA, Herman filed another lawsuit seeking to invalidate the agreement. Hodas has cited a federal act - the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act, or EFAA - which was signed into law by President Biden last year. The law invalidated NDAs that caused disputes in those cases to be handled in confidential arbitration.

"While Ms. Herman may well be entitled to compensation under a sexual harassment claim, she has not brought this case to recover a cent in damages from Mr. Woods," Hodas's filing reads. "But the EFAA still protects her."
By Wendy Fry

CalMatters

The California Reparations Task Force approved economic models for calculating reparations which could amount to hundreds of millions of dollars owed to eligible Black residents to address past racial inequities.

The models tell the state what is owed. The Legislature would have to adopt the recommendations and decide how much to pay, task force members said.

The state-appointed task force also unanimously voted to recommend California formally apologize "for the perpetration of gross human rights violations and crimes against humanity and African slaves and their descendants."

After 15 public hearings, two years of deliberations and input from more than 100 expert witnesses and the public, the task force on Saturday voted to finalize its proposals in an Oakland meeting. The nine-member panel has a deadline to submit it all to the Legislature by July 1.

The historic effort could become a model for a national program of reparations, some observers have said. Rep. Barbara Lee, a Democrat from Oakland, said at the beginning of the task force meeting that the United States must repair the damage done to Black Americans.

"Reparations are not a luxury, but a human right long overdue for millions of Americans," she said. "We are demanding that the government pay their tax."

A bill by former state assembly member Shirley Weber created the reparations task force in 2020, in the wake of the police murder of George Floyd. The panel has since examined the history of slavery and racism in the state and developed detailed plans for how the state can begin to undo certain types of racial harm, such as housing discrimination, mass incarceration, devaluation of Black-owned businesses, the unjust taking of property and unequal access to health care.

The recommendations include policy changes and financial payouts. The task force's final report and documents, numbering thousands of pages, don't contain an overall price tag for reparations. They do include ways the state could calculate how much money eligible African Americans in California have lost since the state's founding in 1850. The loss calculations vary depending on type of racial harm and how long a person has lived in California.

For instance, the loss estimates are $2,300 per person per year of residence for the over-policing of Black communities, and they are $77,000 total per person, regardless of length of residence, for Black-owned business losses and devaluations over the years.

The task force voted in March 2022 that African American descendents from enslaved Americans were eligible, but other Black residents, such as more recent immigrants, are not. Nearly 80% of California's 2.6 million Black residents would be eligible, said William Darity, an economist who consulted with the task force.

Task force members said elderly people should have priority for payment.

CalMatters created an interactive tool for calculating how much a person is owed, using formulas in the task force's final reports and how long a person lived in California during the periods of racial harm.

For instance, a 19-year-old who moved to California in 2018 would be owed at least $149,799 based on the calculations, but a 71-year-old who has lived in California all their life could be owed about $1.2 million. On the other hand, an eligible 28-year-old Californian who moved out of state in 2012 and just moved back could be due around $348,507, according to the calculator.

Hundreds of millions of dollars

If all of the eligible African American residents lived in the state only two years, it could mean hundreds of millions of dollars in potential reparations.

Eligible Black residents should not expect cash payments anytime soon.

The state Legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom will decide on reparations. It's unclear what they will do with the task force recommendations. The task force was not told to identify funding sources.

Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer, a task force member and Democrat from Los Angeles, stressed that the process will take time.

"Giving the impression that funds will become readily available -- or that cash payments are recommended by the task force to rectify marginalization caused by generations of reckless policies and laws -- is not focusing on the real work of the task force or the report itself," he said in an interview Sunday. "There is a process by which the legislature will look at and discuss all recommendations, and that will take some time."

Task force members voted to recommend the Legislature consider "down payments" of varying amounts to eligible African American residents, saying direct cash payments are part of other reparations programs around the world.

"The initial down payment is the beginning of a process of addressing historical injustices; not the end of it," the task force report states.

The task force also is recommending a variety of policy changes to counteract discrimination. For example, the task force has recommended the state end the practice of forced labor in prisons and adopt a K-12 Black studies curriculum.

Freedman's bureau

The group finalized plans to establish a centralized state agency similar to the national Freedmen's Bureau, a federal agency created in 1865 to assist previously enslaved Black people. The state agency would provide oversight and implement the task force's proposals.

"The agency will be doing the work that we weren't able to finish in two years," said Kamilah Moore, chairperson of the task force.

Saturday's meeting was one of the more rowdy hearings by the task force. It included a brief shouting match between a regular meeting attendee and Amos Brown, the task force's vice chairperson. Also the California Highway Patrol escorted a disruptive group out of Lisser Hall at Mills College, where the meeting was held.

During this nearly final task force meeting, debate continued over who is eligible for reparations. Some task force members also voiced concerns that the Legislature might not honor the task force's vote to consider lineage for eligibility.

By a 5-4 vote last year, the task force narrowly defined an eligible person as an "individual being an African American descendant of a chattel enslaved person or the descendant of a free Black person living in the US prior to the end of the 19th century."

That vote was contentious and emotional.

Reparations vote

The task force voted 6-3 Saturday to approve the recommendations for financial compensation. The three members who voted against it did so after changes they wanted failed.

Moore on Saturday made several attempts to further codify the lineage-based definition in the task force's final reports by adding a new chapter. That failed to garner majority support from the rest of the task force.

When Moore requested a section of the final report move from one part to another, members of the Department of Justice staff who put the report together balked, saying the panel would have to rescind its prior vote and convene an additional meeting to redo the report's structure.

Monica Montgomery Steppe, a task force member and San Diego City councilmember, disagreed with them. But a majority of the task force went on to approve the final documents as presented with slight tweaks.

Speaking on Sunday in Twitter Spaces, Moore said that meeting "procedure can be weaponized." She declined to say more publicly about issues from the meeting. "Stay tuned for the 'tell-all' book, though," she joked.

The task force tentatively set its final meeting for June 29 in Sacramento. Members said they plan to hand the documents to members of Legislature.

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BENI, Congo (AP)  The remains of at least 20 people were found buried in a mass grave in an area used to cultivate cacao in Ndoma village in Congo's North Kivu province this weekend, according to local authorities and a military spokesperson.

A team of forensic and security officers exhumed the bodies after residents of villages in Beni territory found bones and clothing and alerted officials.

Until earlier this year, the area had been under the control of the Allied Democratic Forces, or ADF, a rebel militia with links to the Islamic State group. The area is now controlled by the Congolese army. Muyisa Kambale Sindani, representative of nearby Kilya village, said Saturday that the remains were reburied "with dignity and security. He confirmed that bones of at least 20 people were found, but that it wasn't possible to search further because of a lack of security in the region. It wasn't immediately clear how long the bodies had been there. Eastern Congo has been plagued by violence for decades as more than 120 armed groups fight for power, influence and resources and some to protect their communities. The ADF attacks have concentrated on North Kivu province, but the group has recently extended its operations into neighboring Ituri province and to areas near the regional capital, Goma, in South Kivu. The rebels are accused by the U.N. and rights groups of targeting, maiming, raping and abducting civilians, including children. Capt. Anthony Mwalushayi, regional spokesperson for the Congolese army said the area had been an ADF stronghold.

There are innocent people who have been buried here. This is really a mass grave,  he said, but noted that among the bones that were found, there were military insignias.

Mwalushayi pledged authorities would investigate and bring those responsible to justice.

Local residents are demanding more protection from the government but also justice.

We demand justice to be done so that the perpetrators of this massacre answer for their actions and set an example for other rebels to stop killing us unfairly said Richard Kakule, a farmer from Ndoma. After the forensic and experts collected the remains and placed them in white body bags, locals organized a small ceremony and sang while burying the bodies with their own hands. ADF rebels have been active in eastern Congo for decades and have killed thousands in the region since they resurfaced in 2013.

Earlier this year, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for information that could lead to the capture of the groups leader, Seka Musa Baluku.
BANGKOK (AP)  A convoy including diplomats representing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations on a mission to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced people in strife-torn Myanmar has been ambushed, state media and a member of an ethnic minority militia said Monday.

State-run television MRTV reported that the attack on the convoy with delegates from the ASEAN Coordinating Center for Humanitarian Assistance and the Indonesian and Singaporean embassies occurred Sunday in eastern Shan state and was carried out by terrorists." The report did not say which organization the terrorists were from. The military government uses the term terrorists for a wide range of forces opposed to military rule.

The report said the gunmen opened fire with small arms and the security team accompanying the convoy returned fire. A security vehicle was damaged, but no one in the convoy was injured, it said.

The "heinous" attack made it more difficult for displaced people as the government tries to improve relations with other countries to alleviate the situation, the report said.

MRTV said the government is cooperating in providing humanitarian assistance under a Five Point Consensus reached by ASEAN in 2021 in an effort to help restore peace in Myanmar after the army seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

The military government has not implemented most parts of the consensus, which calls for an immediate end to violence in Myanmar, dialogue among all parties, the appointment of a special envoy, humanitarian assistance by ASEAN, and a visit by the special envoy to Myanmar to meet with all parties. Its failure to carry out the agreement has caused ASEAN to bar Myanmars military leaders from its top-level meetings.

Nay Phone Latt, a spokesperson for the National Unity Government, an underground group that calls itself the countrys legitimate government and serves as an umbrella organization for opponents of military rule, denied that its armed wing, the Peoples Defense Forces, had carried out the attack.

He said the convoy was going to the office of the Pa-O National Liberation Organization, an ethnic group living in the area, to distribute aid to displaced people.

We condemn those who carried out this attack on a convoy that came to give aid and support to people fleeing the war," Nay Phone Latt said. "It is believed that this attack was carried out by a group that did not want this aid to reach the PNLO-controlled area. It is only the terrorist military council and their subordinate factions who do not want humanitarian aid and diplomats to reach the PNLO, which is deeply involved in the revolution against the military government, he said.

Khun Tun Tin, vice chairman of the Pa-Oh National Liberation Organization, confirmed that the attack took place five miles (eight kilometers) before the convoy reached the PNLOs office in Shan states Hsi Hseng township, and that the groups secretary was in the convoy.

The PNLO signed a nationwide cease-fire agreement with the previous military-backed government in 2015 and recently joined peace talks with the head of the ruling military council, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing.

The township is about 128 kilometers (80 miles) northeast of Myanmar's capital, Naypyitaw. The area is part of the self-administered zone of the Pa-O ethnic minority. It is governed by the Pa-O National Organization, which is allied with the military government. Other Pa-O groups support the resistance.

Since early 2022, over 5,000 people have taken shelter in Hsi Hseng due to fighting between the army and the resistance forces. The latter include the Karenni National Progressive Party  an ethnic minority militia battling the army  and their allies in the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force and the National Unity Government-affiliated Peoples Defense Forces.

The Karenni have been fighting for decades for greater autonomy. The Peoples Defense Forces were formed by the pro-democracy movement after the 2021 military takeover, and are allied with groups such as the Karenni.

The 2021 military takeover prompted nationwide peaceful protests that security forces suppressed with lethal force, triggering armed resistance that U.N. experts now characterize as civil war.

Urban guerrillas are active in major cities, and the loosely organized Peoples Defense Forces, along with their allies in ethnic minority guerrilla groups, regularly strike military columns and outposts.

Civilians have borne the brunt of brutal military offensives in the countryside, including the use of artillery and airstrikes, which have displaced more than a million people, causing a humanitarian crisis.
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SANTIAGO, Chile (AP)  A far-right party led in the vote count Sunday night after Chileans cast ballots for a 50-member commission that is to draft a new coonstitution after voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposed charter last year that was considered one of the worlds most progressive.

It was a major defeat for Chiles center-left president, Gabriel Boric, with the vote also widely viewed as a referendum on his government, which currently has an approval rating of around 30%.

With 91% of polling stations reporting, the Republican Party, led by far-right Jose Antonio Kast, who lost the presidential runoff to Boric in 2021, led with 35% of the vote. The Republican Party has long opposed changing the constitution that was imposed by the dictatorship of Gen. Augusto Pinochet.

A coalition of left-leaning parties allied with Boric, Unity for Chile was in second place with 28% of the vote. A center-right alliance, Safe Chile, was in third with 21%. Null or blank votes made up 21% of the total.

Preliminary calculations pointed to the Republican Party ending up with about 22 representatives on the constitutional council, compared to 17 for Unity for Chile and 11 for Safe Chile.

If the the two right-of-center groups, the Republicans and Safe Chile, unite it could leave Borics allies with very little room to influence the final text. The preliminary count suggested left-leaning coalitions would not reach the 21 seats necessary to veto proposals or force consensus on certain issues.

Sundays vote marked a key step in the effort to come up with a new proposal for a constitution after 62% of voters rejected the previous proposed charter in September. It had been the first in the world to be written by a convention split equally between male and female delegates.

Critics said the document was too long, lacked clarity and went too far in some of its measures, which included characterizing Chile as a plurinational state, establishing autonomous Indigenous territories, and prioritizing the environment and gender parity.

Once installed, the commission's 50 members will not start from scratch, but rather work from a preliminary document drafted by 24 experts who were approved by Congress. The body's proposal is to be put before plebiscite in December.

The path to rewriting Chiles constitution began after violent student-led protests in 2019 that were sparked by a hike in public transportation prices but quickly expanded into broader demands for greater equality and more social protections.

Congress managed to get the protests under control by calling for a referendum on whether to draw up a new constitution, which almost 80% of voters agreed was needed.

Much of that enthusiasm appears to have vanished, though. Before Sundays vote, polls said there was broad disinterest in the constitutional process.

Luis Rodriguez, a 70-year-old retiree who cast a ballot Sunday, said: I decided to vote because its mandatory. ... I dont care about the result.

Another retiree, David Pino, 65, said he also voted out of obligation. Fines for those who do not vote can be as high as $230.
NEW YORK (AP)  The Republican leaders of two suburban counties have declared states of emergency in an effort to block a plan by New York City's Democratic mayor to use their communities to house hundreds of international migrants seeking asylum in the U.S.

We are not equipped to humanely assist these individuals, said Rockland County Executive Ed Day, who over the weekend declared a state of emergency and has vowed to impose fines to stop the city's plan to put migrants up at hotels in the county for up to four months.

In nearby Orange County, County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus ordered all hotels, motels and short term rental facilities not to accept any migrants as he declared a state of emergency Monday.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan Friday to bus up to 300 single adult male migrants to the two counties north of the city on a voluntary basis.

Under the program, the men would be provided with meals, counseling and other services during their city-paid hotel stays. Adams said the program would help the city handle the more than 37,500 asylum seekers in the citys care.

The Democrat announced the plan as cities across the U.S. prepare for an increase in migrants seeking asylum when a pandemic-era policy that permitted the expulsion of many migrants ends. Officials anticipate that the end of the immigration limits under Title 42 of a 1944 public health law will mean more migrants trying to cross the southern border.

Adams has for months been criticizing Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, for offering free bus rides out of his state to migrants crossing the U.S. southern border. Thousands of those migrants have chosen to go to New York City.

The Adams administration has been using hotels within the city to house some migrants, mainly families with children. Plans to house others at sites including a cruise ship terminal and a beach parking lot in the Bronx have been scrapped.

Adams' press secretary, Fabien Levy, said Monday that the city has cared for more than 61,000 migrants and we have done so largely without incident."

Levy said in a statement that the federal government should do more to help the city house migrants, but until they do, we need other elected officials around the state and country to do their part and emulate the humane and compassionate approach New York City has taken over the past year.

Republicans in the suburbs objected to being asked to take in the migrants.

Day said the mayor's plan was the same as throwing people out to the middle of the ocean who cant swim and saying go to shore. It cant work.

Adams news release did not name the hotels where migrants would be sent, but Day and Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny said they had learned that the Armoni Inn and Suites in the hamlet of Orangeburg had been selected.

Kenny said housing migrants there for four months would violate the towns ordinance limiting hotel stays to 30 days.

Im sorry, Mr. Mayor, you dont trump our laws, said Kenny, who joined Day at a news conference in New City, the county seat. We have our own town code, so the town is prepared to commence legal action.

A message seeking comment was left with the Armoni.

Day announced a state of emergency Saturday that he said will prohibit other municipalities from bringing people to Rockland County and prohibit hotels and motels from housing immigrants without a license.

He said the state of emergency will remain in effect for at least 30 days and will be enforced through fines of $2,000 per migrant per day for the hotels and for any municipality that sends migrants to Rockland.

It was unclear what authority Rockland County would have to fine New York City for sending migrants there. A spokesperson for the citys legal department declined to comment.

Orange County's executive, Neuhaus, said he had questions about who these immigrants are and remain concerned if they were properly vetted. He blamed "the Federal governments failed immigration policy and inability to control the border.
All 35 Shahed-136/131 drones, with which the enemy attacked Kyiv region at night, were shot down by the air defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. A part of the missiles launched in Odesa region was also shot down, the Air Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) said.

"On the night of May 8, 2023, the enemy attacked Kyiv region with Iranian-made shock drones Shahed-136/131. Some 35 strike UAVs were used, which attacked from the northern direction  the Sescha airfield (Bryansk region). All 35 Shahed-136/131s were destroyed by the forces and means of air defense of the Air Command 'Center' of the Air Force, in cooperation with the components of the Defense Forces of Ukraine," the command said.

In the Air Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, they noted the danger of being outside the shelter during the operation of air defense.

"Even a 100% result of defeating air targets does not guarantee a safe stay where air defense works. Fragments of anti-aircraft missiles and affected UAVs will definitely return to the ground. Therefore, take care of yourself and your loved ones," the Ukrainian military said.

It is also reported that at about midnight, Russian invaders attacked Odesa region using Tu-22m3 long-range bombers. A total of eight launches were carried out from the area of Cape Tarkhankut (temporarily occupied Crimea).

"Some of the missiles did not reach their targets. The local military administration will report on the consequences of the hits," the AFU said.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  The White House and Congress could strike a deal to raise the debt ceiling in exchange for budget cuts. Or they could agree to a stopgap measure to keep paying the nations bills while negotiations continue. They also could let the negotiations unravel, sending the economy into chaos.

As President Joe Biden meets Tuesday with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other congressional leaders for the first time over the debt ceiling crisis, the options for easing out of the standoff are many.

But the political incentive for compromise is harder to come by. There's no easy endgame ahead of a June 1 deadline to raise the debt ceiling or risk defaulting on the nation's $31 trillion in debt.

Its Congress constitutional duty to act to prevent default, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday. "Thats what the president is going to be very clear about.

At Tuesday's first meeting, it's extremely unlikely there will be any quick resolution. Biden and the big four congressional leaders of the House and Senate will convene at the White House with neither side yet signaling a willingness to budge off its opening position.

Biden wants Congress to simply raise the debt limit without any strings attached, while Republicans led by McCarthy are insisting on budget cuts in exchange for any votes to allow more borrowing to pay the nation's bills.

More likely, Democratic president Biden and Republican House speaker McCarthy will at least be able to set aside their differences enough to launch a process for negotiations that could begin to form the contours of a deal to avert a true debt ceiling crisis.

But with tensions high and the outcome uncertain, some lawmakers are considering unprecedented proposals, even one that would allow Biden to bypass Congress, invoking his responsibilities under the 14th Amendment to simply raise the nations debt limit on his own. That would be certain to face a court challenge.

Though the endgame is uncertain, the political terrain is familiar for the White House and Congress. The once routine vote to raise the debt ceiling has increasingly been wielded as powerful political leverage to extract policy priorities that otherwise would not be likely to become law.

Republicans have put down their opening bid  a sweeping House-passed proposal that would slash $4.8 trillion off the federal budget over a decade by rolling back spending to fiscal 2022 levels and capping future spending increases at 1% a year, resulting in steep cuts to programs and services.

The Republicans refuse to simply raise the debt limit on its own, and are demanding budget cuts and other party priorities. The House Republican-passed bill would drop millions of Americans from health care, food stamps and cash assistance programs by imposing additional work requirements that many would be unable to meet. And it would undo much of Biden's climate change agenda.

Senate Republicans are backing up their House Republican colleagues, announcing they will not advance any bill that raises the debt ceiling without substantive spending and budget reforms.

In a letter from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and signed by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, the 43 GOP senators said they are united behind the House Republican conference in support of spending cuts and structural budget reform as a starting point for negotiations on the debt ceiling.

Biden and Democrats have also dug in, refusing to debate over the debt ceiling  though they have opened the door to negotiations over spending levels as part of the regular budget process.

We have to avoid default, period. Full stop, the House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said over the weekend.

We, of course, are open to having a discussion about what type of investments, what type of spending, what type of revenues are appropriate, Jeffries said. Thats a process that is available to us right now.

Time is short for any deal. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said that come June 1, there may simply not be enough cash on hand to meet all of the nation's obligations. She noted the U.S. has never defaulted on its debt.

Every option is a bad option," Yellen said Monday on CNBC.

The House and Senate arrive back at work Tuesday, but they are in session together just eight days before the Senate breaks for the Memorial Day recess the week of May 22 with the House set to recess the following week.

Both Biden and McCarthy have insisted they will not allow the country to default on its obligations.

What's different about this round of talks is that it's being led by McCarthy, debuting after his tumultuous battle to become House speaker.

To win the gavel, McCarthy made steep concessions to the hard right Freedom Caucus and other conservatives who make up his slim majority, and who can threaten to oust the speaker if he negotiates a deal they are unwilling to accept.

While Biden had a willing partner in past budget showdowns negotiating with McConnell, the Senate Republican leader is keeping a lower profile enabling McCarthy to take the lead. But the threat hanging over McCarthy from his far-right flank could leave him unwilling or unable to strike a compromise with Biden.

Congress has been known to push this issue to the brink, but it has also proven its ability to buy time, by voting for stopgap measures to allow negotiations to continue.

One solution in the weeks ahead would be for Biden and McCarthy to agree to some smaller measure of budget cuts or changes, say clawing back the unspent COVID-19 funds that Republicans have targeted, in exchange for a vote to lift the debt limit past the June 1 deadline as they keep working on a broader budget deal.

In an earlier debt ceiling showdown a decade ago, Congress agreed to set up a super committee tasked with coming up with bipartisan spending reductions or facing automatic cuts  an idea that has been mentioned in another form this time.

It all means that while June 1 looms as a serious deadline, it may end up being just the first of several to come  a level of fiscal uncertainty that some experts have warned could rock the economy.

To stave off a crisis, House Democrats have pushed forward a process that would force a vote on a clean debt ceiling increase they prefer. But it's a cumbersome procedure that would be a longshot in the Senate, where Democrats have only a slim majority and need Republican support to advance most bills.

Asked about invoking the 14th Amendment proposal, Biden said in an interview Friday that hes not there yet.

___

Associated Press writers Fatima Hussein and Chris Megerian contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee has threatened to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt of Congress if the State Department does not turn over classified cables related to the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, on Friday pledged in a letter  obtained by The Associated Press  to escalate the ongoing battle with the State Department over a so-called dissent cable written by diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul shortly before the August 2021 withdrawal. The new deadline for the State Department to respond is Thursday.

The threat is the latest in an already unprecedented effort by McCaul to force the release of sensitive documents to Congress, setting up what could become a constitutional showdown between House Republicans and the Biden administration on the ability of the legislative branch to conduct oversight.

A State Department spokesperson said Monday that it was unfortunate" that despite the House Foreign Affairs Committee having received a classified briefing on the dissent cable and a written summary it "continues to pursue this unnecessary and unproductive action.

The department would nevertheless continue to respond to appropriate oversight inquiries and provide Congress the information it needs to do its job while protecting the ability of State Department employees to do theirs, principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a statement.

The July 2021 communication in question reportedly warned Blinken about the potential fall of Kabul via a special dissent channel, which allows State Department officials to issue warnings or express contrarian views directly to senior agency officials.

House Republicans have argued over the last two years that access to these documents is key to fulfilling one of their campaign promises: holding the Biden administration accountable for what went wrong as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 and the U.S. left scores of Americans and hundreds of Afghans who helped them over the years in grave danger.

With the power of the gavel, McCaul has been able to elevate that criticism into aggressive congressional oversight and on a topic that has been met with bipartisan support in the past.

The State Department has pushed back, saying that providing the dissent cable to the committee would threaten the integrity of the classified reporting process and the people who wrote them.

The dissent channel was created in 1971, in part to address U.S. diplomats concerns over the Vietnam War, and the State Department has held communications closely. Nearly all such cables are classified to protect the integrity of the process and the identities of dissenting Foreign Service officers. They are not generally intended for public consumption, but some have been leaked to the press, often by their authors.

At least 123 dissent channel cables have been sent since 1971, according to the National Security Archives at George Washington University. The vast majority of those have remained classified, and the State Department has long objected to efforts to force their release.

As a result, over the last month, the department has worked to find alternative methods to comply with a subpoena, providing McCaul's office a briefing on the contents of the cable as well as a summary of the department's official response.

But in the letter Friday, McCaul said the information the department has provided is insufficient to satisfy the Committees March 28 subpoena. He added that State has until Thursday to fully comply with the subpoena by providing access to the cable and unredacted material regarding the withdrawal.

Should you fail to comply, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding, McCaul wrote.

A contempt of Congress charge would require a full committee vote before going to the House floor. With Republicans' slim majority in the chamber, it is possible the vote to hold Blinken in contempt could pass the chamber. The charge does not carry the force of prosecution, but it serves as a referral to the Department of Justice to consider charges.

___

AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
CHICAGO (AP)  Illinois bills that would update existing laws to be more gender inclusive and add protections for LGBTQ marriages are ready for action by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who said he will sign them.

The trio of state bills passed last week are meant to move the state in the opposite direction of those restricting LGBTQ youth, said Sen. Mike Simmons, the bills sponsor and the first and only current out LGBTQ lawmaker in the Illinois Senate.

Illinois is one of several U.S. states that have moved to counteract a surge of anti-LGBTQ legislation in mostly Republican-led states.

On the same day just a few hours away, Indianas governor signed a bill that will require schools to notify a parent if a student requests a name or pronoun change at school, one of several bills this legislative session targeting LGBTQ people in the state.

Illinois neighbors to the west, Missouri and Iowa, have gone in a similar direction by restricting gender-affirming care and the bathrooms transgender students can use.

The Illinois Democratic supermajority passed the bills out of the Senate on Thursday, and the measures now await Pritzker's signature.

The Governor is proud to support legislation that creates a more welcoming, affirming, and inclusive Illinois, said spokesperson Alex Gough on Friday.

In the face of rising violence and bigotry toward the trans, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming community, providing support and recognition for those who identify as LGBTQ+ has never been more important, Gough said.

One bill would replace certain pronouns with the nouns to which the pronouns refer, such as minor instead of he or she, and person who gives birth in place of mother" in some existing laws concerning children in the states care.

Before her no vote, Republican Caucus Whip Sen. Jil Tracy said: I gave birth to two boys that weighed over 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms). I think I deserve more dignity that just a person who gave birth. I'm a mother."

The Illinois Family Institute, a Christian nonprofit, opposes all three bills.

David Curtin, the institute's lobbyist, said the bill on pronouns is tinkering with terms that are legally important, and theres only two genders, and its male and female and him and her. So why not just stay with the program?

Changing the language of laws doesnt change reality," Curtin said.

Simmons said that the bill is primarily intended to affirm LGBTQ youth in the child welfare system, which a 2021 audit found that Illinois' Department of Children and Family Services has failed to do.

Young people in DCFS' care have repeatedly relayed to ACLU Illinois lobbyist Nora Collins-Mandeville the challenges that they have with folks identifying their family members correctly or their own identities correctly, she said.

Language matters, said Collins-Mandeville, who worked with Simmons on the bill. Contrary to some of the opposition ... it actually includes more people and allows people to identify themselves.

Another bill would require state agencies to track employees who identify as non-binary or gender non-conforming to help achieve workforce diversity, and a third bill would make it easier for LGBTQ couples who resided in other states to marry in Illinois.

When the Supreme Court overturned the federal right to an abortion in June, the ruling included a concurring opinion from Justice Clarence Thomas that suggested the high court should review other precedent-setting rulings, including the 2015 decision legalizing same-sex marriage.

The marriage bill is meant to serve as fail-safe in case that decision is reversed, Simmons said.

What were trying to do is get ahead of any actions that might be taken to invalidate Obergefell or any of those other cases that would have a direct and disastrous impact on LGBTQ households in the country, he said, referring to the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision legalizing same-sex marriage.

The Respect for Marriage Act, signed by President Joe Biden in December, enshrines the right to same-sex and interracial marriages in federal law.

For Chicago lawmaker Simmons, the three Illinois bills are personal. There are so many other state legislatures right now that are making a sport of targeting my community, he said.

So many people fought so hard for me to even have the right to exist, to be able to be an out and proud, Black, LGBTQ+ state senator, he said. But the current political climate is dispiriting at times, Simmons said.

Theres several states that are going light years back on LGBTQ and civil rights." he said. Everything is going backwards. ___

Savage 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.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  A Wisconsin judge said Monday he will order that the state elections commission reconsider a complaint filed against fake Republican electors who attempted in 2020 to cast the state's electoral ballots for former President Donald Trump.

But this time, Dane County Circuit Judge Frank Remington said, the commission must consider the complaint without the participation of one of its six commissioners who was also one of the fake electors.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission, Republican commissioner Robert Spindell and those who brought the lawsuit ultimately all agreed that the complaint should be heard again without Spindell's participation.

Given that agreement, Remington said during oral arguments on Monday that he would write a written order as soon as next week to vacate the commission's unanimous rejection in March 2022 of the complaint against the fake electors and to require it to consider it again without Spindell.

Surprise, surprise, I'm coming to the same conclusion, as all the parties have, that the appropriate remedy is to vacate the decision of the WEC and remand it back for further proceedings, which dont include Commissioner Spindell," Remington said.

Spindell is one of three Republican members of the commission that also has three Democratic members. It oversees elections in Wisconsin.

Madison-based liberal law firm Law Forward filed a complaint with the Wisconsin Elections Commission in 2021 alleging that Republicans illegally posed as Wisconsin electors in an attempt to convince the U.S. Congress to declare that Trump won the state in 2020, even though he in fact lost to President Joe Biden by about 21,000 votes.

The complaint asked the elections commission to investigate the fake electors' actions and declare that they broke the law.

The commission voted unanimously last year in a closed meeting to reject the complaint, saying that Republicans who attempted to cast the states 10 electoral college votes for Trump did not break any election laws. Spindell did not recuse himself from considering the complaint, even though he voted as one of the fake GOP electors.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice concluded that Republicans were legitimately trying to preserve Trumps legal standing as courts were deciding if he or Biden won the election. That is the same argument that Trump allies and the fake electors from Wisconsin have made, including in testimony to the Jan. 6 committee.

Law Forward and Madison law firm Stafford Rosenbaum sued the commission and Spindell on behalf of Paul Sickel, executive director of the Service Employees International Unions Wisconsin State Council. Sickel also brought the original complaint to the elections commission.

Jeff Mandell, co-founder of Law Forward, said it was important to get a ruling making clear that no member of the elections commission considers complaints that directly involve them.

We want to make sure this doesnt happen again," Mandell said after Monday's hearing. "Theres not a vendetta or anything like that here.

The case heard Monday is one of two pending lawsuits Law Forward has brought related to the fake electors. A judge earlier this year rejected another lawsuit against Spindell seeking records related to consideration of the complaint.

The other pending case, in federal court, alleges a conspiracy to overturn the election and seeks $2.4 million in damages from the 10 fake electors and Trump attorneys Kenneth Chesebro and Jim Troupis.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Joe Biden served in the Senate for 270 years. He used to be three years older than his sister Valerie, but now has 20 years on her. And the fourth U.S. president  whom Biden affectionally calls Jimmy Madison  is a good friend.

All kidding aside, the 80-year-old Biden will tell you, he is at the end of his career, not the beginning. Hes been doing this for a long time. And he's gotten a hell of a lot of wisdom over those years, making him deserving of a second term.

As Biden, the oldest president in U.S. history, embarks on his reelection campaign, he is increasingly musing aloud about his advanced age, cracking self-deprecating jokes and framing his decades in public life as a plus, hoping to convince voters his age is an asset rather than a vulnerability.

In short, he's trying to own it.

I stand here humbled being the first sitting president of the United States to have an opportunity to speak at Ebenezer Sunday service, Biden said in January at the historic Atlanta church where Martin Luther King, Jr. was the co-pastor. Youve been around for 136 years. I know I look like it, but I havent.

The octogenarian presidents comments about his age can be serious, woven into broader remarks and often used to underscore a broader point.

When Biden told the Irish parliament last month that he has never been more optimistic about the future, he notably added, And Im at the end of my career, not the beginning.

The only thing I bring to this career after my age  as you can see how old I am  but is a little bit of wisdom, Biden continued to the approving crowd. I come to the job with more experience than any president in American history. It doesnt make me better or worse, but it gives me few excuses.

Other times, Biden  his mood buoyed by a crowd full of supporters, whether among Democratic lawmakers or at a lively union hall  is often speaking off-the-cuff, eager to make the audience laugh by poking a little fun at himself. At the annual White House Correspondents Dinner on April 29, Biden made his age an early  and frequent  punchline.

You guys were founded 122 years ago  thats not when I got endorsed, Biden told a crowd of machine operators and engineers with the International Union of Operating Engineers in Accokeek, Md., in April. He referenced "my career of 280 years here at a Black History Month reception before being interrupted by laughter, and at an Air Force event last month, Biden noted that President Dwight Eisenhower addressed the first class of the Air Force Academy more than six decades ago but that I wasn't there ... no matter what the press says.

Whether deliberate or candid, its nonetheless a strategy that evokes how Ronald Reagan defused questions about his age  then 73  during the 1984 campaign. In a debate against 56-year-old Democrat Walter Mondale, Reagan pledged he would not make age an issue nor exploit, for political purposes, my opponents youth and inexperience.

Biden is doing exactly what he should be doing. Hes embracing it, hes having fun with it, hes doing exactly what Ronald Reagan did  injecting humor and self-deprecation into it, said Michael LaRosa, a former press secretary for first lady Jill Biden who also worked on the presidents 2020 campaign. By saying the quiet part out loud, everyone is in on the joke. He knows his age, and hes not pretending to be somebody hes not. And thats the most important quality in a candidate.

The president could also find himself with a general election challenger nearly as old as he is, potentially neutralizing the issue of his own age. Donald Trump, the leading Republican candidate, is 76 years old, although voters have shown less concern about his age and sharpness compared to that of Biden, according to some polls. Trump, for his part, insists the issue is "not age  it's Bidens mental acuity.

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, struggling to gain traction in the still-forming GOP primary field, has consistently made Bidens age a centerpiece of her campaign  even going as far as saying he may not make it to the end of his second term, when hell be 86 years old.

Bidens personal doctor said after the presidents most recent physical exam in February that Biden remains a healthy, vigorous 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency.

Still, the public remains wary about Bidens capacity to do his job. A majority  57%  of voters in last years midterm elections said they did not think Biden has the mental capability to serve effectively as president, according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the 2022 electorate. Forty-one percent of voters said Biden did.

About 9 in 10 Republicans, along with about 2 in 10 Democrats, said they thought Biden doesnt have the mental capability to serve as president. Among Democrats, though, voters under 45 were roughly twice as likely as older voters to say they thought Biden doesnt have the mental capability, 27% vs. 13%.

An April poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showed a notable chasm between the percentage of Democrats who approve of Bidens job performance  78%  and those who wanted him to run again, which was at just 47%. Interviews with poll respondents suggested that the gulf was due in big part to the presidents age.

Bidens aides have long dismissed such concerns. To counter the age questions, his reelection campaign is likely to stress his accomplishments to highlight his fitness to do the job, while underscoring the with-age-comes-experience argument that Biden himself likes to make.

Part of President Bidens argument for reelection is that he has decades of experience, said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del. I think if he can balance the occasional self-deprecating joke with showing the kind of agility, engagement, casual approach to this issue that he did at the correspondents dinner, that he did in the State of the Union, that he has in meetings with small groups of senators in public and in private, I think thats an asset.

In a new MSNBC interview last week, Biden again dismissed concerns about his age, saying, I have acquired a hell of a lot of wisdom and know more than the vast majority of people.

Biden's advisers also note that his age surfaced as an issue in the 2020 campaign and did not derail his path to the White House. Some of his more nominal challengers in that years Democratic presidential primary, such as former Housing and Urban Development secretary Julian Castro and former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, made veiled references to Bidens age and mental acuity, but that did not gain traction among other candidates. (One of them, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is older than Biden.)

Biden has conceded in the past that his age is a legitimate issue for voters, and said shortly after his reelection announcement that he took a hard look at that before he formalized his decision to run for a second term.

If I guess how old I am, I cant even say the number. It doesnt -- it doesnt register with me, he said at a news conference with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol last month. But the only thing I can say is that one of the things that people are going to find out  theyre going to see a race, and theyre going to judge whether or not I have it or dont have it.

___

Associated Press writer Hannah Fingerhut contributed to this report.
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  A Nigerian court on Monday began its hearing on separate suits filed by the opposition to challenge the incumbent party's victory in the country's presidential election.

The presidential tribunal at the Court of Appeal in the capital, Abuja, heard the opening statements of lawyers representing opposition parties, which are the challenging the outcome of the February vote won by Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

As the court hearing began, armed security personnel blocked major access roads and prevented a handful of journalists and lawyers from entering the facility. Some protesters waved Nigerian flags and displayed placards, alleging that the electoral process was flawed.

Why I am demonstrating is because of the anger and the pain I have as a Nigerian not allowed to express and enjoy the resources of the land, said protester James Mike, who accused the Nigerian political class of pilfering the countrys wealth from huge mineral and crude oil resources.

Nigeria's election commission declared Tinubu the winner of the election in a televised broadcast after he garnered 37% of the votes. But the two main opposition candidates rejected the result, questioning Tinubus qualification and alleging that results from the countrys 177,000 polling stations were tampered with.

Analysts and observers said that the voting on Feb. 25 was largely an improvement from Nigeria's previous elections, but said that delays in uploading results might have given room for the figures to be tampered with.

In separate petitions, both second-place finisher Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and No. 3 finisher Peter Obi of the Labour Party argued that Nigerias electoral commission violated the provisions of the law in announcing the results of the election.

Obi has said he has evidence to show he tallied the majority votes in the election while Abubakar has asked the court to disqualify Tinubu, alleging that he has a Guinean passport and therefore wasn't eligible to enter the presidential contest under the Nigerian Constitution.

We are telling the court that he (Tinubu) is not qualified and contrary to the law, he did not put (the election commission) on notice that he has citizenship of another country, said Paul Ibe, a spokesman for Abubakar.

In Nigeria, an election can be invalidated only if its proven that the national electoral body largely didnt follow the law and acted in ways that could have changed the result. None of Nigerias presidential election results has ever been overturned by the countrys Supreme Court, though analysts said this years vote is peculiar with the heavy deployment of technology in the electoral process.

The main opposition party has said without evidence that the ruling party is plotting to interfere with the court process, adding to tensions as the country awaits the judgment of the court while preparing for the inauguration of Tinubu as president. The court challenge though is usually a lengthy process and is expected to last for months, beyond May 29 when Tinubu is due to take over from incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari.
Lawyers for Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder convicted of seditious conspiracy in the attack on the U.S. Capitol, say he doesnt deserve any more time behind bars when hes sentenced this month, according to court papers filed Monday.

While the Justice Department is seeking 25 years in prison, defense attorneys are urging the judge to sentence Rhodes to the time behind bars he has already served. Rhodes, of Granbury, Texas, has been locked up since his arrest in January 2022.

Rhodes is expected to be sentenced on May 25 after his November conviction in one of the most serious cases brought so far in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack. Prosecutors accused Rhodes of being the architect of a plot with his extremist followers to forcibly block the transfer of power from President Donald Trump to President Joe Biden.

Prosecutors built their case around dozens of encrypted messages and other communications in the weeks leading up to Jan. 6 that showed Rhodes rallying his followers to fight to defend Trump and warning they might need to rise up in insurrection to defeat Biden if Trump didnt act.

Rhodes, who took the witness stand at trial, has insisted there was no plan to attack the Capitol and said the Oath Keepers who did so acted on their own. His attorneys say they plan to appeal his conviction.

In their filing, Rhodes' attorneys told the judge that all of Rhodes' writings and statements were protected political speech."

None of his protected speech incited or encouraged imminent violent or unlawful acts, nor were any likely to occur as a result of his speech, they wrote. In particular, nothing Mr. Rhodes wrote or published concerned the direct prevention of the transfer of power between then President Trump and President-elect Biden.

His attorneys cited Rhodes' military service  Rhodes joined the Army fresh out of high school and served nearly three years before he was honorably discharged in January 1986 after breaking his back in a parachuting accident.

They also rejected the portrayal of the Oath Keepers as an extremists group, and noted that its members helped provide assistance after Hurricane Katrina and other events.

Much as the character of those within the Oath Keepers has been misconstrued and mischaracterized by others, so too has their history and actions, they wrote.

Rhodes was convicted of seditious conspiracy alongside Florida Oath Keepers chapter Kelly Meggs, while three of their co-defendants were cleared of the rarely used Civil War-era charge. Those three, however, were convicted of other serious crimes. Four other Oath Keepers were convicted of the sedition charge in a subsequent trial.

Prosecutors, in their filing, described the Oath Keepers actions as terrorism, and told the judge that a harsh sentence is critical to deter future political violence. They wrote that Rhodes believes he has done nothing wrong and still presents a threat to American democracy and lives.

Leaders of another far-right extremist group, the Proud Boys, were convicted of seditious conspiracy last week for what prosecutors said was a separate plot to stop the transfer of power. Those convicted in that case include former Proud Boys national chairman Enrique Tarrio.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  When President Joe Biden nominated Gigi Sohn to serve on the Federal Communications Commission, the longtime consumer advocate expected to face criticism over her desire to expand free internet access and improve competition among broadband providers.

Instead, Sohn found herself the target of an aggressive campaign funded by a conservative group that doesnt have to disclose its donors. The American Accountability Foundation called Sohn too partisan, anti-police and soft on sex trafficking. The attacks landed  to the point that even some Democrats abandoned her. Sohn withdrew her nomination, ditching her fight for a five-year term as an FCC commissioner.

Look, Im not naive. Ive been a consumer advocate my whole career. I knew I was going to get some opposition, Sohn told The Associated Press. Now, did I expect what was to come  the dark money, the lies, the caricatures? No.

The battle over the nomination is the latest example of how organizations with political and financial agendas have been able to sway public opinion by deploying donations that are impossible to trace. It is also emblematic of how nominees missteps  even on matters unrelated to their prospective jobs  are being used against them by such organizations.

Sohns confirmation wouldve ended a 2-2 split on the commission, enabling the Biden administration to pursue its agenda of making communication networks more equitable. Sohn has been a vocal advocate for such regulations, which have been opposed by the telecom industry.

It is unclear what role, if any, the industry played in the anti-Sohn campaign. The most influential outside groups spent at least $420,000 on ads seeking to torpedo Sohns confirmation, a sum that is likely more.

Central to the advertising offensive was the American Accountability Foundation, which produced an advertising blitz assailing the nominee on Facebook and elsewhere.

Another group, co-founded by a former Democratic senator, said it spent six figures on ads arguing that Sohn was the wrong choice for the FCC and rural America. The National Fraternal Order of Police chastised Sohn over endorsing social media posts that were critical of law enforcement.

Sohn was not likely to coast to confirmation. Moderate Democrats were going to have trouble justifying their support for a nominee who had assisted controversial liberal groups, tweeted negatively about police and accused Fox News of being state-sponsored propaganda.

Opposing nominations is hardly new in American politics. But a 2010 ruling by the Supreme Court freed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts on political campaigns. The Citizens United ruling also opened the door to an influx of untraceable donations, known as dark money, that are being used to influence the course of nominations.

If confirmed, Sohn would have been the FCCs first openly LGBTQ+ commissioner.

Sohn had served as a top adviser for Tom Wheeler, the Obama-era FCC chair who enacted net neutrality rules that were jettisoned during the Trump administration. Such regulations would have required internet providers to treat web traffic equally. The telecommunications industry has argued that such rules are illegal and burdensome.

Some business groups pounced at Sohns nomination, while telecommunications companies and their trade organizations took a less combative approach.

It is unknown whether those companies donated dark money to groups that attacked Sohn. A spokeswoman for USTelecom, a national trade association on broadband, said the group and its members did not take a position on Ms. Sohns nomination.

Behind the scenes, however, the industrys lobbyists worked hard to kill the nomination, according to Sohn. Telecom companies are among the nations biggest spenders on lobbyists, with the industry shelling out $117 million last year to influence lawmakers and administration officials, according to OpenSecrets.

It was a perfect storm of, you know, industry interests, Sohn said in an interview last month.

Sohn took particular umbrage with the campaign waged by the American Accountability Foundation, which boasted it spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on advertising.

AAF dished out more than $320,000 on Facebook advertising. Such ads blasted Sohn over her connections to liberal groups and suggested she opposed stiffening sex-trafficking laws. An ad alleged she was a complete political ideologue.

The organization targeted most of its advertising in states where Democratic senators are up for reelection next year. In the closely divided Senate, nominees can lose only one Democratic vote if they hope to win the job if all Republican senators oppose them.

AAF also promoted criticism of Sohn over Twitter posts in 2020 that suggested she supported the defund the police movement and agreed with a tweet that alleged police were armed goons with tear gas.

AAF executive director Tom Jones declined to name the group's donors.

Jones' group was joined in its campaign against Sohn by other organizations, including one led by Heidi Heitkamp, a former Democratic senator from North Dakota.

Heitkamps One Country Project announced in 2022 it was spending at least $100,000 on a campaign to oppose Sohns nomination by highlighting her purported disregard for rural broadband.

Heitkamp did not respond to requests for comment. She collected more than $106,000 in donations from the telecommunications industry during her 2018 Senate campaign, according to OpenSecrets.

The National Fraternal Order of Police also opposed the nomination, a move that surprised Sohn because the police union has no business before the FCC. The group said that a vote for Sohn would show a complete disregard for the hard-working men and women of law enforcement.

Sohn said she knew her nomination was dead at her February confirmation hearing. Thats when Jacky Rosen, a Nevada Democrat, said police concerns about the social media posts do give me pause. Other Democrats, Sohn said, put little effort into parrying Republican attacks.

Three weeks later, she withdrew from the fight.
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PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Cambodias National Election Committee announced Monday that 20 political parties have registered for Julys general election but nine of them still have not been approved, including the Candlelight Party, the sole credible challenger to the governing Cambodian Peoples Party.

About 9.7 million Cambodians are registered to vote in the July 23 election to select the 125 members of the National Assembly.

Prime Minister Hun Sen and his entrenched Cambodian Peoples Party are certain to easily top the polls, holding all the advantages of incumbency. They dominate the field in terms of nationwide organizing, personnel, finances and influence with the mass media.

The party has held an iron grip on power for decades and controls almost every level of government. Hun Sen, 70, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held his position for 38 years. His eldest son, army chief Hun Manet, is widely expected to replace his father as prime minister after the polls.

The opposition, led by the Candelight Party, is low on financial resources and subject to constant harassment in the courts initiated by the governing party. Most prominent opposition members are in self-imposed exile to avoid being jailed on various charges they say are trumped up and unfair.

The Candlelight Party is the unofficial successor to the Cambodia National Rescue Party, which posed a serious challenge to Hun Sens party ahead of the 2018 election. It was disbanded just months ahead of the polls by a controversial court ruling that said it had plotted the illegal overthrow of the government.

The courts are widely believed to be under the influence of Hun Sens government, and the partys disbanding enabled the governing party to win all of the seats in the National Assembly.

However, in local elections last June, the Cambodian Peoples Party won 74.3% of the votes and the Candlelight Party received about 22.3%.

Speaking to reporters Sunday when registering with the National Election Committee, Candlelight Party deputy president Rong Chhun said several party members have been intimidated, threatened and even beaten up, though his party has not publicized the incidents. He also said some government officials who are members of his party were dismissed from their jobs.

Rong Chhun appealed to the authorities to treat all political parties fairly, and said he wishes for calm ahead of the election, with people allowed to express their party allegiances without fear.

The party said ahead of registration that the election committee had demanded documents it could not provide, even though they had not been needed for last years local elections.

The committee asked for the partys original registration papers issued by the Interior Ministry. But the Candlelight Party said the papers were taken in a 2017 police raid on the headquarters of its predecessor, the Cambodia National Rescue Party.

If the Candlelight Party is not allowed to contest the July polls, the sole competition for the governing party would be groups aligned with it, or small, obscure parties without a national presence.

By law, parties have seven days to provide any missing information to the election committee, failing which their registration will be rejected. They can then appeal the ruling to the Constitutional Council.

-

This story has been updated to correct number of seats in contention for this years election to 125 and Hun Sens age to 70.
In Enerhodar, amid panic moods, the so-called "city authorities" have closed passport offices and some administrative departments, they are taking out documents and equipment, the mayor of the city, Dmytro Orlov, has said.

"All this is happening under the motto "no panic" and "the authorities in the city continue to work," he wrote on his Telegram channel.

Also, on Sunday night and in the morning, they began to take out medical equipment from the hospital, which was first sorted and then loaded into trucks.

At the same time, according to Orlov, information that some departments in the hospital stopped providing medical care was received. Against this background, patients in hospitals are invited to evacuate.

The mayor said that the categories of the civilian population announced by the invaders themselves also fell into the first wave. But not everyone agrees to leave.

Orlov said that the first wave of the population evacuation, in particular, citizens who received Russian passports, began on Saturday morning, but it cannot be called mass at present.

"Some of the people who wanted to leave were loaded onto buses. Some left in their own vehicles," he said.

According to him, fuel at filling stations has run out, ATMs do not work or work with limitations, and there is virtually no place where one can withdraw money, the Internet has partially disappeared.

"But the prices for food and medicines, on the contrary, jumped noticeably," the mayor said.

Meanwhile, General Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Mariano Grossi said that IAEA experts present at the Zaporizhia NPP received information that the announced evacuation of residents from the nearby town of Enerhodar  where most plant staff live  has started.

"They [the IAEA experts] are closely monitoring the situation for any potential impact on nuclear safety and security," he was quoted as saying in the agency's press release on its website.

While operating staff remain at the site, Director General Grossi expressed deep concern about the increasingly tense, stressful, and challenging conditions for personnel  and their families  at Europe's largest NPP, located by the frontline in a southern Ukrainian region that has seen a recent increase in military presence and activity.

The IAEA experts at the site are continuing to hear shelling on a regular basis, including late on Friday, May 5.

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous. I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant," Grossi said.

The IAEA experts at the ZNPP site were not able to visit Enerhodar in recent days. But they have received information about the situation regarding the evacuation in the town. It is part of a wider temporary evacuation in the region reportedly announced on Friday.

At the same time, he was told that operating staff are not being evacuated and that they are doing everything necessary to ensure nuclear safety and security at the plant, whose six reactors are all in shutdown mode.
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For the first time, the U.S. government will pay for a large study measuring whether overdoses can be prevented by so-called safe injection sites, places where people can use heroin and other illegal drugs and be revived if they take too much.

The grant provides more than $5 million over four years to New York University and Brown University to study two sites in New York City and one opening next year in Providence, Rhode Island.

Researchers hope to enroll 1,000 adult drug users to study the sites' effects on overdoses, to estimate their costs and to gauge potential savings for the health care and criminal justice systems.

The universities announced the grant Monday. The money will not be used to operate the sites, the universities said.

With U.S. drug overdose deaths reaching nearly 107,000 in 2021, supporters contend safe injection sites, also called overdose preventions centers, can save lives and connect people with addiction treatment, mental health services and medical care.

Opponents worry the sites encourage drug use and that they will lead to the deterioration of surrounding neighborhoods.

There is a lot of discussion about overdose prevention centers, but ultimately, we need data to see if they are working or not, and what impact they may have on the community, said Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which awarded the grant.

Sites operate in 14 countries, including Canada, Australia and France, according to the Drug Policy Alliance, a group working for decriminalization and safe drug use policies.

In the U.S., New York City opened the first publicly recognized safe injection site in 2021 and Rhode Island became the first state to authorize them that year.

States including Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico have considered allowing them. The governors of California and Vermont vetoed safe injection site bills last year, and Pennsylvanias Senate last week voted for a ban on them.

The grant marks another move by the Biden administration toward what is known as harm reduction, a strategy focused on preventing death and illness in drug users while helping them get care, as opposed to punishment.

The White House's drug control strategy is the first to emphasize harm reduction, and the Justice Department has signaled it will allow safe injection sites.

In December, the National Institutes of Health established a harm reduction research network to study programs providing services and supplies such as naloxone, a drug that can reverse overdoses, and materials to test drugs for fentanyl, a powerful opioid driving record numbers of overdoses. The new study will be part of that project.

___

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.
TALLINN, Estonia (AP)  A Belarusian man sentenced to jail over a satirical drawing of authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has died behind bars, the countrys leading rights organization reported on Monday.

Mikalai Klimovicz, a 61-year-old blogger and activist from southern Belarus, died on Sunday while in prison in the northeastern city of Vitebsk, just two months into his sentence, the Viasna Human Rights Center said in a statement.

Klimovicz in February was sentenced to one year in jail for drawing a caricature of Lukashenko and sharing it on social media. He suffered multiple bouts of heart disease during his trial.

Belarusian authorities on Monday confirmed Klimoviczs death, but did not clarify what caused it. The Viasna statement said that Klimovicz was registered as disabled due to his illness, a stroke and a complex heart operation that he had undergone, but was denied medication while in jail.

Before the verdict, the blogger said that he could die behind bars, as he needs to take a large amount of strong medicines, the Viasna statement said.

During his trial, Klimovicz told reporters that the real reason for his prosecution was his very firm support of Ukraine and opposition to Russias invasion of its neighbor, as well as to Lukashenkos policies.

Marija Pejcinovic Buric, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, tweeted that she deplored Klimovicz's death. "My thoughts are with his family and friends, she added.

Belarus was rocked by mass protests in 2020 following a presidential election that gave Lukashenko  in power since 1994  a new term in office, but that was widely regarded by the opposition and Western countries as fraudulent. Authorities responded with a massive crackdown that saw over 35,000 people arrested, thousands beaten by police and dozens of NGOs and independent media being shut down.

Opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on Monday demanded an independent medical examination of Klimoviczs body, and said that hundreds of political prisoners with serious health problems risked suffering a similar fate in Belarus.

Relatives and lawyers should be immediately allowed to visit prisoners, the possibility to pass on medicines to prisons should be reinstated, Tsikhanouskaya said in a Telegram post, alleging that there was no treatment available in Belarusian jails.

Not one more person should die, she added.

According to Viasna, 1,498 political prisoners remain behind bars in Belarus, including the Nobel Peace Prize-winning pro-democracy activist Ales Bialiatski.
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LONDON (AP)  If one thread ran throughout the festivities marking the coronation of King Charles III, it was the idea of public service.

It was there when Charles stood before a choirboy at Westminster Abbey on Saturday and promised to serve. It was there in the words of his son, Prince William, during Sunday's concert at Windsor Castle. And it is there in the day of volunteerism that the king called for on Monday's holiday in the U.K.

It's a strange word from the lips of a king  not exactly the stuff of fairy tales, or monarchs leading armies into battle, or shouting, Off with their heads! Its been more than 260 years since a British king led troops in the field, and Charles is legally barred from meddling in politics.

Despite the trappings of medieval power on display at the coronation, a modern monarchy links the royal family to the people of the United Kingdom and the 14 other countries Charles serves as head of state.

His grandfather, King George VI, is remembered for staying in London during the German bombing raids of World War II, showing the people that he was with them.

His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, endeared herself to the nation with 70 years of public duties, sprinkling a bit of royal stardust on communities from Belfast to Brighton. As a young princess, she pledged that my whole life, whether it be short or long, will be devoted to your service.

She did it not just with mundane ribbon cuttings and tree plantings, but also by boosting the morale of health care workers during the pandemic and supporting charities that helped veterans and the disadvantaged.

Charles reign, and the future of the monarchy, will rest on whether he and his heir, Prince William, can maintain that link in a country that is much less deferential to royalty than the one that cheered Elizabeths coronation in 1953.

Its a marriage between the monarch and the people, said former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole. His life has been dedicated to service. And I think that youre going to see that more and more and more. Hes very committed to it. Hes utterly sincere and it will be up for other people to judge  and I hope they judge fairly and honestly  because nobody can doubt his good intentions.

Throughout the weekend, Charles pledged to serve and recognized the service of others. When he walked into Westminster Abbey on Saturday morning, with four page boys carrying the train of his flowing robe, he walked past prime ministers and global dignitaries.

But in the side chapels, out of sight of the cameras, were hundreds of the usually anonymous people who make the United Kingdom tick. People like Barbara Swinn, a librarian from York, Kim Beck, who works with Afghan refugees in Solihull, and Naomi Brock, who does community work and looks after four foster children, and well as five of her own, in Olney. All were invited to the abbey to honor their service to their communities.

Prince William picked up the theme Sunday night as 20,000 people gathered in the shadow of Windsor Castle for a concert headlined by Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Take That.

After saluting his fathers work to protect the environment and help the disadvantaged, William turned his attention to others.

I also want to express my pride and gratitude for the millions of people who serve  in the forces, in classrooms, hospital wards and local communities, he said. I wish I could mention you all. Your service inspires us.

The theme carried through to Monday's final act of the holiday weekend, a less-glitzy affair that is being called The Big Help Out. Hoping to inspire a new generation of volunteers, Buckingham Palace asked people around the country to donate a few hours to local charities.

Its a modern role for a modern monarchy.

As Britains ceremonial head of state, the king is symbol of stability and unity who helps the nation celebrate its victories and consoles it during times of adversity.

Some argue that these duties are better performed by an elected head of state, not a 74-year-old man who inherited wealth and status by an accident of birth. But supporters argue that Britain is better off with a hereditary monarch, above the fray of party politics, who doesnt have to face voters regularly.

That debate, muted recently out of respect for the aging queen, is likely to intensify during Charles reign. There were rumblings of that over the weekend, when police arrested anti-monarchist protesters.

These arrests were not about protecting people from harm, but about protecting the king from embarrassment, said Graham Smith, head of the campaign group Republic. It was the state wanting to stamp down dissent in order to present an image of a grateful and consenting public at the time of the coronation.

Others grumbled that the coronation was too filled with the trappings of the Church of England for a country that isnt very religious, too much medieval pageantry for a modern nation that has ditched many of the formalities of the past, and too much military involvement for a diminished world power.

These traditions provide the historical underpinnings of the monarchy and give the royal family its majesty and its mystique.

But Charles  and William  know thats not enough.

A day after the crown was placed on Charles head, William ended his speech  like his grandmother decades earlier  by pledging to continue his fathers work.

I commit myself to serve you all, the heir said.

___

Follow AP's coronation coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/king-charles-iii
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos president said Monday he will talk with U.S. President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programs to help stem the flow of migrants to the U.S. border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the U.S. border.

Don't allow yourselves to be fooled, Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. Don't allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk."

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the U.S. government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people wont have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by U.S. Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

This really degrades them, morally, he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied.
MADRID (AP)  Drought-stricken Spain says last month was the hottest and driest April since records began in 1961.

The State Meteorological Agency, known by the Spanish acronym AEMET, said Monday the average daily temperature in April was 14.9 degrees Celsius (58.8 Fahrenheit), that is 3 degrees Celsius above the average.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. chief expressed hope Monday that Syrias return to the Arab League and its engagement with regional powers could spur progress in resolving the 13-year Syrian civil war, as Damascus faced pressure to be transparent about chemical weapons.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he believes the region has a vital role to play in the search for settlement of the conflict, which began with an uprising against President Bashar Assads rule in 2011 that was met with a violent crackdown. The civil war has killed nearly a half million people, and displaced half the countrys pre-war population of 23 million.

Syria was reinstated in the 22-nation Arab League on Sunday after a 12-year suspension. It was a symbolic victory for Assad, who can join the groups May 19 summit, though Western sanctions will continue to block reconstruction funds to the war-battered country.

Guterres comments challenged regional players to take a leading role in trying to get the Syrian government and opposition to negotiate an end to the war  something that succeeding U.N. envoys have been unable to do. The secretary-general said current special envoy Geir Peterson will continue to work closely with all key actors, according to his spokesman.

At the same time, Syrias chemical weapons program remains a serious and contentious issue. A majority of the worlds nations and the global chemical weapons watchdog accuse Damascus of hiding activities, while its close ally Russia defends Assads actions.

Syria joined the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, or OPCW, in 2013 after being threatened with U.S. airstrikes in response to a chemical attack on the outskirts of the countrys capital, Damascus.

In an unprecedented vote in April 2021, members of the OPCW voted to suspend Syrias voting rights as a punishment for the repeated use of toxic gas. Investigations by the OPCW twice blamed Syrian government forces for chemical attacks and found reasonable grounds to believe it was responsible for another attack.

At Mondays monthly U.N. Security Council meeting on Syrian chemical weapons, U.N. disarmament chief Izumi Nakamitsu said Syria has failed to address identified gaps, inconsistencies, and discrepancies in its original declaration on its chemical program.

Russias deputy U.N. ambassador Dmitry Polyansky, whose country is a veto-wielding member of the Security Council, accused the OPCW of being an instrument of the West and manipulating its investigations to blame Syria.

U.S. deputy ambassador Robert Wood criticized Damascus failures to answer the OPCWs questions and Russias shameless shielding of Syrias defiant behavior, which he said is leaving the Syrian people facing the prospect of further chemical weapons attacks.

He said Russia supported the Security Council resolution adopted in 2013 strongly condemning any use of chemical weapons in Syria and ordering it not to use, develop, produce, acquire, stockpile or retain chemical weapons. But now, he said, instead of supporting it, Russia has chosen to attack the credibility and professionalism of the OPCW  undermining the U.N. Charter in the process.
Syrsky: Enemy not going to change plans, doing all possible to take Bakhmut under control

Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky on Saturday, May 6, visited the areas of combat operations and met with the commanders of combat units, the press service of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.

"We discussed measures to better defend Bakhmut and inflict maximum damage on the Wagner militants. The necessary operational decisions were made on the spot," the AFU said on Facebook.

Syrsky explained that not all issues can be discussed remotely, so live communication with the commanders made it possible to understand the situation in detail and plan future actions.

The commander assessed the situation on the eastern front as tense, but controlled. According to him, the Russians in recent days have increased the intensity of attacks on heavy weapons, began to use more advanced equipment and are regrouping troops.

"This suggests that the enemy is not going to change his plans and is doing everything possible to take Bakhmut under control and prolong the offensive," he said.

However, Syrsky said, due to the active actions of the Ukrainian fighters, the enemy fails to achieve the intended goals.

On the occasion of Infantry Day, Syrsky awarded state and departmental awards, and also presented valuable gifts to about 170 fighters of the eastern front, who heroically proved themselves in battles.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott appeared on Fox News Sunday to discuss potential gun law reforms after a shooter killed eight people in an outlet mall in his state over the weekend. In his interview, Abbott contrasted gun violence in Republican-controlled states with gun violence in California  something that didnt go unnoticed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

We need to recognize a reality: what weve seen across the United States over the past year or two, and that is an increased number of shootings in both red states and blue states, Abbott said on Fox News. ... Weve seen an increased number of shootings in states with easy gun laws, as well as states with very strict gun laws. I think that the state in which the largest number of victims have occurred this year is in California, where they have very tough gun laws.

Newsom immediately seized on Abbotts comments in torrent of tweets on Sunday, in which he said Abbott conveniently leaves out the fact that Texas gun death rate is 73% higher than CAs, and accidentally points to exactly why we need federal gun safety laws. He also wrote that Abbott scrapped $211 million in mental health funding from the states budget  in his interview, Abbott claimed the root cause of gun violence was mental health disorders  and lambasted the idea of freedom being connected to protecting gun rights.

This is freedom? To be shot at a mall? Shot at school? Shot at church? Shot at the movies? We have become a nation that is more focused on the right to kill than the right to live, Newsom said. This is not what the American people want. Do your damn job, Congress.

Its unclear where Newsom got the 73% figure from, but its certainly true that gun deaths are generally higher in Texas than they are in California. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that in 2021  the last year such data is available  Texas had 4,613 firearm-related deaths, while California experienced 3,576, even though California has a larger population than Texas. In fact, according to that CDC data, the last year California had more gun deaths than Texas was in 2014.

As for Newsoms assertion that Abbott accidentally argued for gun more reform at the federal level, he seems to have taken that from Abbotts claim that gun violence is on the rise nationally. It would make sense that, if gun violence is truly on the rise in both red and blue states, then the issue seems like one that is not going to be solved by individual state governments.

Sundays episode is just the latest in Newsoms crusade against Republican governors. Abbott is the governors second-favorite target behind Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, whom he tweeted about last week. Newsoms sparring with Abbott seemed to crest last year, when he ran ads in several large newspapers that attacked Abbott on his gun record.

Newsom has faced criticism for his focus on Republican-led states while California faces issues of its own, but in this instance, it was technically Abbott who started it.
On April 27, a security guard working in a San Francisco Walgreens shot and killed 24-year-old Banko Brown outside of the store. In the wake of the shooting  for which District Attorney Brooke Jenkins has so far declined to file charges  members of the community have questioned why private security guards in the city are allowed to carry firearms.

I somehow missed the part where private corporations like Walgreens are able to have their own private militias here in the streets of San Francisco, one member of the public said at last weeks Board of Supervisors meeting. Why was Banko Brown killed? Murdered over what? Some shampoo? A frickin bag of chips? Are you kidding me?

Under California state law, security guards are allowed to carry firearms if they can satisfy certain training requirements. But San Francisco has its own law regulating private security: Article 25 of the citys police code, passed in 1972 but rarely enforced. Article 25, as originally designed, prescribes a list of rules from the San Francisco Police Department that state-licensed security firms must follow.

Through Article 25, San Francisco has the right to impose local regulations in addition to the state regulations, according to a 2022 study published by SFPD, which was commissioned over supervisors concerns that private security guards were engaging in racial profiling. Indeed, Article 25 already contains a provision that defines the circumstances under which security guards can draw their handguns more specifically than state law does.

To gauge whether San Franciscos Board of Supervisors is considering strengthening local regulation of private guards, SFGATE reached out to all 11 members and gave them four days to provide responses to the following two questions: 1) As a general matter, do you believe private security guards operating in San Francisco should carry firearms? Why or why not? 2) Would you support legislation that prohibits, or significantly restricts, the use of firearms by private security?

Two supervisors responded that they do not believe the citys private security guards should be able to carry guns, and three said they would support increased local regulations of armed security guards. One supervisor said that private security should be armed, and that they do not believe local regulations can be meaningfully enacted. Five supervisors did not respond to our questions.

Do not believe San Franciscos private security guards should have guns

District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio

Private security guards should not be allowed to carry lethal weapons. They havent had the rigorous training of police officers who follow strict protocols overseen by an independent police commission. Security guards in a retail store certainly shouldnt carry guns because there is no item worth protecting at the cost of human life. A non-lethal taser could be considered for extreme cases when someone needs to be subdued after posing a physical or lethal threat to people in the store.

District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen

I do not believe security guards should carry guns and would support legislation to prohibit it.

Support increased local regulation of armed security guards

District 2 Supervisor Catherine Stefani

San Francisco has as many as 8,000 private security guards, but only 1,500 police officers. By failing to recruit and retain sworn staff, we have effectively created an unregulated  and often armed  shadow police force.

Since 2021 Ive worked to increase accountability for private security while improving police recruitment and retention because unregulated firearm use puts San Franciscans at risk. Everyone deserves to feel safe in San Francisco, and I wont let up until they do.

District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston

I believe strongly that private security guards should never unholster their guns to protect property, especially a handful of candy. We are in active conversations with community members regarding what restrictions make sense to prevent this type of tragedy from happening again.

District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai

I support enacting strong restrictions to private security guards who carry firearms that include significant review and proper training.

Believes private security should be armed, does not believe local regulations can be enacted

District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey

I can see circumstances where it would be appropriate [to be armed with guns], and should be lawful. Local law is generally preempted in this realm. If there was a policy-making appetite to tighten restrictions on this, would the city even have the prerogative of doing so? What I have seen over the years when San Francisco has enacted policies around firearms is that theres not a lot of latitude.

Did not respond to our questions

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin

This is not how I formulate public policy or interact with the press.

[Editors note: When we followed up with Peskin and his office, a spokesperson wrote back with a link to Peskins comments on the killing of Banko Brown. Those comments did not address whether security guards should be armed.]

Supervisors Connie Chan (District 1), Myrna Melgar (District 7), Rafael Mandelman (District 8), Shamann Walton (District 10)

Did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
Kiara, a 12-year-old from Santa Cruz, felt her nerves surge as she peered through the trees toward a large cabin, hearing the murmur of voices in the distance.

Before arriving at the Young Actors Theatre Camp in Santa Cruz on the first weekend of April, she had spent all Friday daydreaming at school about what the drag workshop she had enrolled in would actually look and feel like. Would it unfold like an episode of RuPauls Drag Race? Would the other campers like her ideas? What if she just couldnt keep up?

I didnt have wigs or anything to bring. I had never done makeup before. And I was worried because I thought Id be surrounded by people whove done drag for a while at the camp, she said.

Of the approximately 45 young people at the overnight camp, just seven had signed up for the drag curriculum. All seven (ranging in age from sixth to ninth grade) were first-time campers and had no drag training. I started to ask around to others, and nobody had done it before, Kiara said. It just made me feel a lot more at ease.

Attending the camp was an evolution of Kiaras own experimentation at home, including dressing up in feminine looks and leaning into fluid gender expression, says her father, Andrew. He felt a tinge of nerves about the camp.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

But as soon as I got there, met the camp leaders and saw Kiaras excitement, I think I started to feel at ease that this was the right place, Andrew said.

It is about us thriving

Drag has a long place in the arc of American performing arts and played a crucial role in empowering gay men, but in recent years has come under fire from conservatives who have equated the art form (and any other sort of gender subversion) with grooming and pedophilia, resulting in intimidating protests against drag story time events at public libraries and noisy backlash at schools. Lawmakers in Tennessee went so far as restricting public drag performances, though a federal judge has temporarily blocked the law.

The YATC event was no different: An inflammatory article by the Daily Mail and a campaign by the notorious far-right influencer LibsofTikTok led the organization to receive hundreds of terrorizing messages, lasting for weeks after the camp ended. (As a result, many of the sources in this story asked to be identified by first names only, and were granted anonymity in accordance with Hearsts ethics policy.)

Nonetheless, the hate pales in comparison to the support the inaugural camp has received, says YATC co-founder Shawn Ryan, and the group plans to maintain its drag program in the future. It has become another piece of the history of drag in the Bay Area, in the same vein as Dolores Parks Hunky Jesus, a drag laureate for San Francisco, and other influential local drag pioneers. No amount of bad-faith criticism can strip the importance of that, Ryan says: It is not just about survival. It is about us thriving.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

Founded by Ryan and John Ainsworth in 2001, YATC offers young performers a chance to retreat into an idyllic outdoor camp environment, living and learning alongside each other while being introduced to a variety of artistic disciplines. It has earned accolades for offering a creative space free of judgment, featuring everything from classical theater training to guest clinics with Hollywood producers, leaving young people with mentorship, artistic skills and newfound confidence.

In 2005, the camp began including drag as part of its themed group dinners, encouraging campers to raid the costume closet and let their imaginations run wild.

We have always noted to the kids that boys can dress like girls, girls can dress like boys. Anyone can dress however they want. You can be a unicorn! Ryan said with a laugh. But its really about freedom of expression, including choosing not to dress up. Some kids choose that, and its awesome, too.

Over the years, drag night grew into a bigger fascination at camp, with more young people familiar with the art form (according to Ryan, a common influence seems to be RuPauls Drag Race, now in its 15th season). Drag dinner evolved into dinner and a drag show; buoyed by the response, YATC began inviting drag queens to teach campers about developing personas, honing a routine, and the meaning of slay.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE (Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE) (Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE)

Teaching drag

One of those drag artists, Casi, led a master class during last summers camp and walked away impressed by the verve of her students. She pitched Ryan the idea of a standalone curriculum for YATCs spring session, and the duo began brainstorming how to implement the plan.

Drag is just a form of acting  its a creative, powerful, personal form of self-expression. It allows you to search inside yourself and explore aspects that you may be afraid to dig into. I often say that were hiding pieces of ourselves or pretending to be different things to different people, Casi said. But drag allows you to pinpoint something you love feeling and doing, and then exaggerate it. Its a safe space to be overly confident, to be sassy and free.

Though she has a background in theater and musical training, Casi was inadvertently introduced to drag through the Pulitzer-nominated artist Taylor Mac, with whom she collaborated on multiple productions. Over the past decade, Casi has honed her craft by immersing herself into the drag community, and her experiences form the basis of the weekend curriculum, which has as much to do with the historical foundations and theory of drag as it does actual performance.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

The No. 1 thing the campers asked about was, When are we doing makeup? I said, Makeup? You dont know who you are yet in drag, Casi said.

Instead, she led the campers through a history of drag, from its Shakespearean origins (a shortening of the stage directions dressed as a girl) to the Stonewall riots of 1969. They discussed drag as a potent form of empowerment for queer men amid rampant oppression, and how it evolved into an art form that now includes cis straight men and women, transgender people and nonbinary people. They learned about the radical activism of Marsha P. Johnson, who fought for civil rights and used drag as a weapon against discrimination. They watched the film adaptation of the Broadway musical Everybodys Talking About Jamie, which chronicles the life of a 16-year-old who is bullied for his love of drag but ultimately prevails through courage and acceptance.

Then, finally, Casi led the campers into the process of developing a drag persona, teaching them how to move their hands, bodies and faces. Each camper was told to bring songs that inspire joy in them, and Casi helped choreograph routines to these songs, preparing the campers for a grand finale drag show in front of their loved ones on Sunday.

A lesson in self-expression

All along, Casi stressed that drag is a flexible tool of free expression. I told them, if you dont feel comfortable thinking about your drag persona as a different gender, think about it as a character. You can be like Juliet from Romeo and Juliet, and make it extreme, she said. Youre exploring every element to its fullest, exaggerated extent. Its similar to when young artists study clowning. Were learning how to embody a newfound confidence.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

That embodiment is especially crucial for young people who are often harassed because of the ways they choose to express themselves, and the tension has only grown worse with a swell of vicious national discourse regarding gender identity, queerness and youth development. Despite the well-documented harms of suppressing gender and sexual expression, a variety of agitators continue to call for the persecution of deviants, using a tidal wave of misinformation and propaganda to bring their message into mainstream media and threaten lives and livelihoods. The rhetoric is affecting real-world policy and politics, but the influence is also felt at school, where bullying language and slurs heard at home are used to isolate young people who stick out.

Its this pressure that pushed 13-year-old Maddie and her mother Kim to seek out the YATC weekend camp, hoping it would spark a recovery from a school year stained by trauma and hatred. By all accounts, seventh grade in Montana has been a nightmarish time for Maddie, who has faced cyberbullying from peers and slurs uttered in hallways for being in the LGBT community. She has long had a fascination with theater, including a newer interest in drag  but the crushing toll of harassment made Maddie recede into a shell, Kim said.

Kims voice rises into an emotional crackle when she describes how the schools faculty has failed to support her daughter. She realized the extent of the problem when Maddie won the schools science fair, but remained visibly terrified of presenting at the state competition, even telling her father that she would rather die.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

So I said, screw it. We are not doing the science fair, Kim said. I thought we needed to have her miss school and do something different because shes had a very difficult year. So the drag camp felt like the most extreme way to put her in a place where she feels accepted.

Finding confidence

It didnt take long for Maddie to feel a kinship with Casi, Ryan and her drag camp peers. Over the course of Saturday, she discovered the core elements of her drag character and settled on a vivid nom de plume: Cherry Bomb. She picked out a costume comprising a skirt, a retro Kiss shirt, a stunning red wig and sunglasses. The hardest part was picking out a song to perform to, Maddie said  Some of my favorite songs have really adult lyrics, she noted with a giggle. But she went with a simple declaration of intent: Confident, by Demi Lovato (who identifies as queer and pansexual).

Some places, I just cant really be myself because of others around me. But I had a realization that I can make a character in drag and have it be the more confident version of me, Maddie said. It meant I could walk down that stage with real confidence and actually be happy, without any desire to hide. It was a great, great feeling to be my own person.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

The seven campers convened on Sunday, April 1, to hold a drag finale in front of their family and the 40 or so campers who participated in other weekend YATC programs. It wasnt a smooth day for everyone: Kiara, for one, struggled with feelings of being overwhelmed and underprepared, and broke down in tears. Kiara had prepared a vibrant drag persona by the name of Dior Dionne  a haughty, old-money fashionista with little patience for the plebeians around her. On Sunday, however, Kiara began feeling an undercurrent of doubt. It started to spiral when she slipped while applying her makeup, leaving a blemish. Then, as if by fate, she ripped her bag of belongings while packing. The perfect day in her mind was starting to unfurl.

But Kiara notes that her drag mama Casi swooped in, ready to fix her makeup and proffer words of love and encouragement. It steeled her nerves, allowing her to focus on all the joy she had put into creating Dior Dionne. And by the time the initial chords of ABBAs iconic Money, Money, Money began blaring over the speakers, Kiara was ready to dance, pout and preen in front of a crowd, throwing fake cash and lip-syncing as the cheers rang out around her.

One of the things Ive always loved about drag is the clothing  I would dress like that more often if I felt like I could. It just feels natural. But actually, playing the character felt really, really good, Kiara said. To put on a performance and feel amazing afterward, like just with the applause and smiles, it  it just felt amazing.

The blood-boiling moment

The campers didnt know it at the time, but their performance was, in a sense, an act of resistance  especially given that YATC began seeing cruel comments aimed at the drag camp online. An inflammatory post on Facebook about the weekend went viral on Saturday, leading to agitation from around the country, Ryan said. He spent the evenings during the camp working furiously to take down posts that advocated hate, including a clip from one livestreamer who threatened to drive to the Santa Cruz camp and disrupt it. Ultimately, YATC had to explain to parents what was unfolding, how to report any harassment, and why the organization could keep its young campers safe.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

It was a blood-boiling moment for Andrew, who was forced to confront the risk that his child Kiara may be in danger simply for daring to exist among like-minded people. Likewise, Kim notes that she was in disbelief over the rhetoric on social media, which claimed that YATC parents were sexual predators working to pervert impressionable minds. This, despite the fact that drag is not inherently sexual in form and intent (and especially ironic given that drag has been a staple of, among other spaces, the American military through much of the 20th century).

It was also an emotional precipice for Ryan, who felt torn between his own anger and desire to fight, and the need to stay calm and prioritize the young campers. In the weeks following the weekend camp, he has continued to receive an unprecedented amount of hate mail and disruptive phone calls, with some people unleashing torrents of slurs and nonsensical accusations.

Its an interesting position to be in  to be able to push the fight just by continuing to live our lives and teaching people about the art form and sharing, Ryan says. I thought for so long, what should I do? Should I get aggressive? Should I, gosh, get back to every single hateful person and try to change their mind?

Instead, Ryan and Casi have confronted the fact that the best thing to do is just keep going, with an additional eye toward security and safety at the camp. As someone who has long been shy when it comes to political conversation, and avoided conflict out of fear, I feel like continuing to educate is the only way I can effect change, Casi adds.

The show must go on

Despite the horror of imagining their children under further attack, what remains at top of mind for Andrew and Kim is the vision of their kids on stage on Sunday, unfettered by doubt and embracing their own agency. Being immersed in the applause of peers and parents was a formative experience for all involved, they said.

Magali Gauthier/Special to SFGATE

When Kiara was performing in drag, it was maybe the happiest and most engaged and most gratified Kiara Ive ever seen, Andrew said.

Tears kept flowing when the campers picked a loved one in the crowd to dance with them, parading them around the room to the triumphant rhythm of RuPauls Cover Girl.

I cried and cried when she was up there, Kim said. She got her voice back. I got my daughter back.

The impact of the weekend has had rippling effects in the month since. Not all of it is idyllic  Maddie and Kim are still contending with their insanely homophobic Montana community, and Andrew worries about what challenges Kiara will face while continuing to grow and explore her identity, even if they do live in California. Ryan remains vigilant about countering hate speech and threats toward YATC, and Casi anticipates her own family could see harassment because of her work as a drag instructor.

Beyond the negativity, however, is an effusive sensation that drag camp is a haven in a world rife with ignorance. RuPaul once declared that drag doesnt change who you are, it actually reveals who you are. In that vein, Kiara found faith in her own abilities as well as new friends, and Maddie changed the course of her seventh-grade year by rediscovering her sense of pride.

I just cant wait to go back, Maddie said.
While seemingly every tech company is attempting to chase the artificial intelligence dragon that Sam Altman and OpenAI wrought, Altman is joining the old-fashioned chorus of anti-remote work tech CEOs with one of the strongest statements against it.

Altman  the chief executive of San Francisco-based OpenAI  opined against the experiment of remote work for staff creativity at a talk hosted by the financial tech giant Stripe. It was first reported by Fortune Friday.

I think definitely one of the tech industrys worst mistakes in a long time was that everybody could go full remote forever, and startups didnt need to be together in person and, you know, there was going to be no loss of creativity, Altman said during the chat, according to Fortune.

I would say that the experiment on that is over, and the technology is not yet good enough that people can be full remote forever, particularly on startups. (In a 2019 podcast appearance with economist Tyler Cowen, Altman did express his contempt for coworking spaces, which begs the question: Where does he think startups should meet if they need to meet in person?)

This isnt the first time Altman has made his feelings about remote work known, saying that the companies who rushed to full remote permanently made a big mistake in a January tweet. That said, even he has exceptions  making the caveat that some of OpenAIs best people are remote in a follow-up response.

Hes also not the first to bang the drum against working from home, even if he is among the most zealous. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, once an ardent supporter of his employees ability to work remotely, suggested in January that employees hired during the pandemic are facing much lower productivity because of the companys office policy. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, meanwhile, smuggled a pro-office analysis of performance data  suggesting that remote-start employees were worse off than their in-office counterparts  into a notice laying off 10,000 workers in March. Recently joining this list is newly appointed Lyft CEO David Risher, who, in April, reportedly switched the company's flexible working policies into a mandated three days a week in the office.

Among those cheering on his call to return to work was San Francisco Supervisor Matt Dorsey, whose District 6 includes Mid-Market, SoMa and Mission Bay.

In-person collaboration helps create vibrant workplaces *and* vibrant urban neighborhoods, Dorsey said in a tweet Saturday, thanking Altman for his influential thought-leadership on the matter.
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

FLOOD WARNING

BULLETIN - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED

Flood Warning

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX

952 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...The National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio TX has issued

a Flood Warning for the following rivers in Texas...

San Antonio River at Hwy 72 nr Runge affecting Goliad and Karnes

Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive

cars through flooded areas.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the

dangers of flooding.

Additional information is available at www.weather.gov.

The next statement will be issued Monday morning at 1000 AM CDT.

...FLOOD WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL TOMORROW EVENING...

* WHAT...Minor flooding is forecast.

* WHERE...San Antonio River at Hwy 72 nr Runge.

* WHEN...Until tomorrow evening.

* IMPACTS...At 31.0 feet, Flooding spreads across the wide flood

plain upstream and downstream. No structures are threatened.

Livestock and farm equipment will need to removed from the

floodplain.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 9:15 PM CDT Sunday the stage was 23.6 feet.

- Forecast...The river is expected to rise above flood stage

just after midnight tonight to a crest of 29.2 feet tomorrow

morning. It will then fall below flood stage tomorrow

morning.

- Flood stage is 27.0 feet.

- Flood History...No available flood history.

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

Fld Observed Forecasts (7 pm CDT)

Location Stg Stg Day/Time Mon Tue Wed

San Antonio River

Hwy 72 nr Runge 27.0 23.6 Sun 9 pm CDT 19.4 12.0 11.1

...FLASH FLOOD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1145 PM CDT THIS

EVENING FOR NORTHEASTERN NOLAN AND NORTHERN TAYLOR COUNTIES...

At 952 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy

rain near Tye and Goodfellow AFB area...moving east at 20 mph.

Between 3 and 5.5 inches of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall

rate is 2.5 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2

inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or

expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms producing

flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Abilene, Merkel, Tye, Buffalo Gap, Trent, View, Dyess Afb, Caps

and Potosi.

This includes the following highways...

Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 256 and 280.

This includes the following Low Water Crossings...

Texas Avenue at Arnold Boulevard, Craig Street at Catclaw Creek,

County Road 387 crossing Little Bitter Creek, crossings along County

Road 335, crossings along County Road 357, crossings along County

Road 283, crossings along County Road 400, County Road 150 crossing

Cedar Creek, crossings along County Road 127 and crossings along

County Road 410.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the

dangers of flooding.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern Hidalgo

and southeastern Starr Counties through 1030 PM CDT...

At 954 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Los Garzas, or 7 miles south of Rio Grande City, moving east at 30

mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 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...

Rio Grande City, Penitas, Sullivan City, La Joya, Los Ebanos,

Garciasville, La Grulla, John F Kennedy Elementary School, La

Victoria and Fort Ringgold County Park.

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.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement

agency. They will relay your report to the National Weather Service

office in Brownsville.

LAT...LON 2623 9845 2622 9848 2620 9848 2621 9851

2625 9855 2622 9856 2626 9859 2624 9867

2626 9868 2627 9872 2629 9871 2630 9875

2631 9874 2633 9875 2633 9879 2637 9880

2636 9890 2647 9847 2620 9842 2620 9844

TIME...MOT...LOC 0254Z 260DEG 34KT 2628 9887

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX

204 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Fayette

County through 245 PM CDT...

At 203 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Weimar, or 10 miles northeast of Schulenburg, moving north at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and half inch 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...

La Grange, Fayetteville, Swiss Alp, Dubina, Rutersville, Warrenton,

Ellinger, Walhalla, Willow Springs, Ammannsville, Rek Hill, Mullins

Prairie and Holman.

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 2975 9676 2969 9682 2975 9695 3004 9680

2997 9658 2996 9657

TIME...MOT...LOC 1903Z 201DEG 17KT 2978 9677

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, May 9, 2023

_____

FLOOD WARNING

Flood Statement

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX

237 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Texas...

San Antonio River at Hwy 72 nr Runge affecting Goliad and Karnes

Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive

cars through flooded areas.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Additional information is available at www.weather.gov.

The next statement will be issued late tonight at 245 AM CDT.

...FLOOD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL LATE TOMORROW MORNING...

* WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast.

* WHERE...San Antonio River at Hwy 72 nr Runge.

* WHEN...Until late tomorrow morning.

* IMPACTS...At 31.0 feet, Flooding spreads across the wide flood

plain upstream and downstream. No structures are threatened.

Livestock and farm equipment will need to removed from the

floodplain.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 2:15 PM CDT Monday the stage was 29.5 feet.

- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours

ending at 2:15 PM CDT Monday was 31.6 feet.

- Forecast...The river is expected to fall below flood stage

late this evening.

- Flood stage is 27.0 feet.

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

Fld Observed Forecasts (1 pm CDT)

Location Stg Stg Day/Time Tue Wed Thu

San Antonio River

Hwy 72 nr Runge 27.0 29.5 Mon 2 pm CDT 17.7 13.9 13.3

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of eastern Fayette

County through 330 PM CDT...

At 240 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 7

miles north of Weimar, or 9 miles southeast of La Grange, moving

north at 15 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...

La Grange, Fayetteville, Round Top, Swiss Alp, Dubina, Rutersville,

Warrenton, Waldeck, Rabbs Prairie, Ellinger, Walhalla, Willow

Springs, Ammannsville, Rek Hill, Mullins Prairie, Nechanitz and

Holman.

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 2969 9682 2974 9695 3011 9686 3005 9662

2996 9657

TIME...MOT...LOC 1940Z 198DEG 15KT 2981 9678

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Austin San Antonio has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southeastern Lee County in south central Texas...

North central Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 445 PM CDT.

* At 348 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over La Grange,

moving north at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Public. At 3:43 PM, quarter size hail was reported

in La Grange.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Giddings, La Grange, Serbin, Northrup, Rutersville, Ledbetter,

Waldeck, Rabbs Prairie, Plum, Warda, West Point, Winchester and

Nechanitz.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northwestern Cameron

and southwestern Calcasieu Parishes, northeastern Jefferson and

Orange Counties through 415 PM CDT...

At 351 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over

Vidor, moving east at 30 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...

Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, Nederland, Port Neches, Vidor, Bridge

City, West Orange, Rose City, Pine Forest, Pinehurst, Orangefield and

Toomey.

This includes the following highways...

Interstate 10 in Texas between mile markers 880 and 857, near mile

marker 854, and between mile markers 851 and 850.

Interstate 10 in Louisiana near mile marker 1.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

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.

LAT...LON 3010 9412 3009 9409 3011 9407 3013 9410

3024 9403 3018 9371 3015 9371 3014 9369

3013 9370 3016 9360 2990 9369 2992 9376

2997 9376 2999 9380 3000 9379 2998 9383

2999 9386 2997 9384 2996 9386 3005 9415

TIME...MOT...LOC 2051Z 286DEG 28KT 3013 9402

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Central Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 745 PM CDT.

* At 448 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 4 inches of rain have

fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 2 inches in 1 hour.

Additional rainfall amounts up to 3 inches are possible in the

warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

La Grange, Fayetteville, Rabbs Prairie, Plum, Mullins Prairie,

Rutersville, Ammannsville, Swiss Alp, O'Quinn, Holman, Warda, West

Point, Winchester, Ellinger and Kirtley.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law

enforcement and request they pass this information to the National

Weather Service when you can do so safely.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern

Brewster County through 530 PM CDT...

At 449 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Chisos Basin, or 12 miles west of Panther Junction, moving southwest

at 5 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects.

Locations impacted include...

Lajitas, Panther Junction, Chisos Basin, Study Butte, Castolon, Big

Bend National Park, Terlingua and Barton Warnock Environmental

Educational Center.

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.

LAT...LON 2904 10343 2907 10345 2907 10347 2908 10347

2916 10355 2916 10365 2918 10372 2923 10376

2922 10377 2923 10378 2925 10377 2927 10379

2931 10379 2934 10375 2941 10341 2939 10310

2902 10336

TIME...MOT...LOC 2149Z 046DEG 6KT 2929 10341

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN

MAX WIND GUST...55 MPH

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of Bastrop, central Lee

and central Fayette Counties through 545 PM CDT...

At 450 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Paige, or 10 miles northeast of Bastrop. This storm was nearly

stationary.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel size hail.

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Elgin, Bastrop, Giddings, Smithville, Fedor, Paige, Camp Swift,

Circle D-KC Estates, Upton, Knobb Springs, Phelan, Bastrop State

Park, Hills Prairie, Cedar Hills, Buescher State Park, Hills,

Lincoln, Butler, Manheim and Serbin.

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 2996 9702 2996 9736 3031 9744 3042 9737

3040 9733 3041 9731 3033 9689

TIME...MOT...LOC 2150Z 199DEG 3KT 3020 9717

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko has said after visiting a multi-apartment building, which was damaged as a result of a kamikaze drone attack on the city last night, that it was the most massive drone attack since the beginning of full-scale hostilities.

"I visited a multi-apartment building, which was hit by the pieces of the Russian drone last night. The barbarians launched the most massive kamikaze drone attack last night. They launched around 60 Shaheds, and 36 of them headed towards the capital. All of them were destroyed by the air defense forces. However, the pieces of several drones damaged some social facilities and a block of flats in Sviatoshynsky district," he said on the Telegram channel on Monday.

The mayor also said that five people were injured as a result of the attack in two districts of the city. Three of them were wounded when the pieces hit the multi-apartment building.

"Two injured were hospitalized, one of them has been operated. The doctors said there is no threat to their life," Klitschko said.

The mayor also said that the municipal authorities will provide those injured with necessary assistance and quickly restore their damaged housing as soon as the special commission presents its conclusions.
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio TX

453 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern Fayette

County through 515 PM CDT...

At 453 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over

Muldoon, or 9 miles north of Flatonia, moving northeast at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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...

Muldoon and Floy.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 2975 9704 2978 9715 2992 9716 2987 9698

TIME...MOT...LOC 2153Z 202DEG 13KT 2981 9706

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 515 PM CDT

FOR NORTHWESTERN CAMERON...SOUTHWESTERN CALCASIEU PARISHES IN

SOUTHWESTERN LOUISIANA AND SOUTHEASTERN ORANGE COUNTIES...

At 453 PM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line

extending from Vinton to 9 miles south of Toomey to 8 miles northwest

of Sabine National Wildlife, moving east at 25 mph.

HAZARD...70 mph wind gusts and half dollar size hail.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect considerable

tree damage. Wind damage is also likely to mobile homes,

roofs, and outbuildings.

Orange, Bridge City, West Orange, Vinton, Sabine National Wildlife,

Toomey and Hackberry.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

This is a DANGEROUS SITUATION. These storms are producing widespread

wind damage across Orange County. SEEK SHELTER NOW inside a sturdy

structure and stay away from windows.

Intense thunderstorm lines can produce brief tornadoes and widespread

significant wind damage. Although a tornado is not immediately

likely, it is best to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of

a building. These storms may cause serious injury and significant

property damage.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO HOUSTON/GALVESTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in League City has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Grimes County in southeastern Texas...

South central Brazos County in southeastern Texas...

Eastern Washington County in southeastern Texas...

Northwestern Waller County in southeastern Texas...

* Until 300 PM CDT.

* At 234 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles east of

Brenham, moving northeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

* Locations impacted include...

Navasota, Hempstead and Washington.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO LAKE CHARLES Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

TORNADO WARNING

The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...

Western Beauregard Parish in southwestern Louisiana...

Southern Newton County in southeastern Texas...

Southeastern Hardin County in southeastern Texas...

Southeastern Jasper County in southeastern Texas...

* Until 330 PM CDT.

* At 257 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado

was located 7 miles north of Sour Lake, moving east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Tornado.

SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.

Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree

damage is likely.

* This dangerous storm will be near...

Lumberton around 330 PM CDT.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile

home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and

protect yourself from flying debris.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

...THE TORNADO WARNING FOR WESTERN BEAUREGARD PARISH...SOUTHERN

NEWTON AND SOUTHEASTERN JASPER COUNTIES IS CANCELLED...

The tornadic thunderstorm which prompted the warning has moved out

of the warned area. Therefore, the warning has been cancelled.

...A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 330 PM CDT FOR

SOUTHEASTERN HARDIN COUNTY...

At 258 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado

was located 7 miles north of Sour Lake, moving southeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Tornado.

SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage

to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is

likely.

This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

southeastern Hardin County.

The National Weather Service in Austin San Antonio has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Eastern Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 400 PM CDT.

* At 259 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near La Grange,

moving north at 20 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

La Grange, Fayetteville, Round Top, Carmine, Rutersville,

Warrenton, Ledbetter, Waldeck, Ellinger, Walhalla, Willow Springs,

Ammannsville, Winedale, Rek Hill, Mullins Prairie, Nechanitz and

Holman.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement

agency. They will send your report to the National Weather Service

office in Austin San Antonio.

Large hail, damaging winds, and continuous cloud to ground lightning

are occurring with this storm. Move indoors immediately. Lightning is

one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder,

you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

The National Weather Service in League City has issued a

Southwestern Grimes County in southeastern Texas...

Southeastern Brazos County in southeastern Texas...

Northeastern Washington County in southeastern Texas...

Northwestern Waller County in southeastern Texas...

* At 259 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles southwest

of Washington, or 11 miles northeast of Brenham, moving northeast

at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

Navasota and Washington.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO LAKE CHARLES Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

TORNADO WARNING

Severe Weather Statement

National Weather Service Lake Charles LA

328 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A TORNADO WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 345 PM CDT FOR NORTH

CENTRAL JEFFERSON...SOUTHEASTERN HARDIN AND WEST CENTRAL ORANGE

COUNTIES...

At 328 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado

was located over Beaumont, moving southeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Tornado and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without

shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage

to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is

likely.

This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

north central Jefferson, southeastern Hardin and west central Orange

Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile

home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and

protect yourself from flying debris.

Heavy rainfall may hide this tornado. Do not wait to see or hear the

tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

The National Weather Service in League City has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Montgomery County in southeastern Texas...

Central Waller County in southeastern Texas...

Northwestern Harris County in southeastern Texas...

* Until 400 PM CDT.

* At 330 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Pine Island,

or near Prairie View, moving north at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

* Locations impacted include...

Prairie View, Hockley, Waller, Pine Island and Monaville.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO MIDLAND/ODESSA Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Midland/Odessa TX

757 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of east central Scurry

County through 830 PM CDT...

At 757 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 8

miles west of Hobbs, or 10 miles east of Snyder, moving east at 25

mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 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.

This storm will remain over mainly rural areas of east central Scurry

County.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

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.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

western Texas.

LAT...LON 3272 10079 3278 10079 3281 10066 3268 10066

TIME...MOT...LOC 0057Z 265DEG 20KT 3274 10074

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 815 PM CDT

FOR SOUTH CENTRAL RUNNELS AND NORTH CENTRAL CONCHO COUNTIES...

At 756 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Us-

83 Near The Concho-

Runnels County Line, or 7 miles east of Rowena, moving northeast at

15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of south

central Runnels and north central Concho Counties, including the

following locations... Us-83 Near The Concho-

Runnels County Line and The Intersection Of Us-

83 And Ranch Road 1929.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of central Knox County

through 830 PM CDT...

At 801 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 6

miles northwest of Benjamin, moving east at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel size hail.

Locations impacted include...

Benjamin and Rhineland.

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 3356 9998 3374 9995 3372 9958 3350 9958

TIME...MOT...LOC 0101Z 281DEG 15KT 3364 9988

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO NORMAN Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Norman OK

432 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern

Wilbarger County through 515 PM CDT...

At 432 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 5

miles southwest of Grayback, moving northeast at 5 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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...

Grayback.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3392 9935 3414 9921 3400 9895 3385 9914

TIME...MOT...LOC 2132Z 219DEG 6KT 3393 9922

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

The National Weather Service in Lubbock Texas has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southern Stonewall County in northwestern Texas...

* Until 515 PM CDT.

* At 435 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles northeast

of Rotan, or 12 miles west of Hamlin, moving north at 25 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and half dollar size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

Aspermont, Peacock, Old Glory and Swenson.

Prepare immediately for large hail and deadly cloud to ground

lightning. Seek shelter inside a well-built structure. Stay away from

windows.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

...THE SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING FOR WEST CENTRAL COLEMAN AND

CENTRAL RUNNELS COUNTIES WILL EXPIRE AT 445 PM CDT...

The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe

limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property.

Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. However small hail

and gusty winds are still possible with this thunderstorm.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

west central Texas.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO NORMAN Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Norman OK

631 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of Foard and northern

Knox Counties through 715 PM CDT...

At 631 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 9

miles southeast of Chalk, moving northeast at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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...

Crowell, Thalia, Truscott, and Gilliland.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3401 10005 3404 9948 3375 9948 3370 9999

3383 10000 3384 10005

TIME...MOT...LOC 2331Z 246DEG 11KT 3378 10013

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO NORMAN Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Norman OK

804 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Foard,

northeastern Knox, southwestern Wilbarger and northwestern Baylor

Counties through 830 PM CDT...

At 804 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 7

miles north of Gilliland, moving east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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.

This storm will remain over mainly rural areas of southeastern Foard,

Counties.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3377 9979 3394 9975 3393 9939 3366 9945

TIME...MOT...LOC 0104Z 281DEG 15KT 3385 9969

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of eastern Pecos County

through 845 PM CDT...

At 804 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm 18

miles northwest of Sheffield, moving east at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny size hail.

Locations impacted include...

Iraan and Iraan Municipal Airport.

This includes Interstate 10 between mile markers 306 and 318.

Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

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.

LAT...LON 3077 10184 3078 10217 3086 10218 3096 10196

3096 10195 3095 10193 3093 10192 3092 10188

3089 10189 3087 10186 3083 10185 3080 10183

TIME...MOT...LOC 0104Z 260DEG 10KT 3082 10210

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of west central Coleman

and southeastern Runnels Counties through 845 PM CDT...

At 806 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Us-83 Near The Concho-

Runnels County Line, or near Ballinger, moving northeast at 15 mph.

Ballinger, Talpa and Benoit.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 900 PM CDT for

west central Texas.

LAT...LON 3158 9989 3174 9999 3190 9966 3165 9953

TIME...MOT...LOC 0106Z 244DEG 14KT 3166 9989

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Sunday, May 7, 2023

_____

AREAL FLOOD ADVISORY

Flood Advisory

National Weather Service San Angelo TX

1012 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...FLOOD ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 1115 PM CDT THIS EVENING FOR

ABILENE...

* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.

* WHERE...A portion of west central Texas, including the following

county, Taylor.

* WHEN...Until 1115 PM CDT.

* IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 1011 PM CDT, a strong thunderstorms over Abilene will move

east at 20 mph.Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to

thunderstorms. Minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly in Abilene. Up to 0.5 inches of rain have fallen.

- Abilene is the most likely place to experience minor

flooding.

Quick rainfall amounts up to 1 inch are expected over the

area. This additional rain will result in minor flooding.

- Some locations that will experience flooding include...

Abilene, Wylie, Potosi, Hamby, Impact and Kirby Lake.

- This includes the following highways...

Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 281 and 292.

This includes the following Low Water Crossings...

Intersections along Buttonwillow Parkway, Butternut

Underpass, Curry Lane from Clack Street to Catclaw Drive,

Intersections along Sammons Street, FM 3308 crossing Draw,

South 27th Street at Catclaw Creek, 2000 block of Oak Street,

North 6th Street and Willis, Antilley Rd. crossing Button

Willow Creek and Broken Bough At Chimney Rock.

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southwestern Hidalgo

and south central Starr Counties through 1045 PM CDT...

At 1013 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Grulla Middle School, or near Garciasville, moving east at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts up to 50 mph and nickel 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...

Palmview, Penitas, Sullivan City, La Joya, Los Ebanos, Garciasville,

La Grulla, Narciso G. Cavazos Elementary School, Abram-Perezville and

Cesar Chavez Middle School.

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.

To report severe weather, contact your nearest law enforcement

agency. They will relay your report to the National Weather Service

office in Brownsville.

LAT...LON 2616 9839 2620 9844 2623 9845 2622 9848

2620 9848 2625 9856 2624 9855 2622 9856

2626 9859 2624 9867 2626 9868 2627 9872

2629 9871 2630 9875 2631 9874 2633 9875

2633 9879 2636 9879 2643 9835 2616 9833

TIME...MOT...LOC 0313Z 266DEG 27KT 2628 9871

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...50 MPH

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Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Eastern Fisher County in west central Texas...

Western Jones County in west central Texas...

* Until 200 AM CDT.

* At 1053 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across western Jones Country...moving east at 20 mph.

Between 3 and 5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall

amounts of 0.5 to 1 inch are possible in western Jones county.

Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Anson, Hamlin, Roby, Hawley, Mccaulley, Neinda, Sylvester, Noodle,

Longworth, The Intersection Of Us-180 And Ranch Road 126, Hitson,

Truby, Stith, Busby and Hodges.

This includes the following Low Water Crossings...

CO Rd. 444 crossing Noodle Creek.

While the rainfall will likely move east and end over Fisher and

Jones county around midnight. Streets and roadways will likely

remain flooded. Do not drive through water of unknown depth.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the

dangers of flooding.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Warehouses in Odesa with URCS humanitarian aid burn down in night shelling, mobile hospital damaged in Mykolaiv

The warehouse of the Odesa regional organization of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) with an area of 1,000 square meters was destroyed on the night of May 8 in a Russian missile attack on Odesa.

"The fire completely destroyed the humanitarian aid that was in the warehouse. The provision of humanitarian aid and the activities of some projects of the Odesa Regional Organization of the URCS have been suspended," the URCS reported on its website on Monday.

In addition, the mobile hospital of the Mykolaiv regional organization of the URCS was damaged in a missile attack on Mykolaiv region on May 7.

"Part of the medical equipment, technical equipment and furniture that was there became unusable after the strike. At present, the liquidation of the consequences of the shelling continues, after which the hospital will start operating as usual, but in a different place," the URCS said.

URCS employees and volunteers were not injured.

The organization said that the attacks on employees and institutions of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are a gross violation of international humanitarian law and are classified as a war crime.

The URCS also reported that since February 24, 2022, 25 buildings (offices, warehouses, bases) of the organization have been damaged or completely destroyed.
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service San Angelo TX

438 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northeastern Nolan

and northwestern Taylor Counties through 515 PM CDT...

At 437 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms 8

miles south of Trent and 3 miles south of Merkel, moving east at 10

mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and half inch 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...

Merkel, Tye, Trent, View, Dyess Afb and Camp Butman.

This includes Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 254 and 278.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

LAT...LON 3230 10030 3252 10025 3252 9985 3230 9986

TIME...MOT...LOC 2137Z 261DEG 9KT 3242 10004

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.50 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

The National Weather Service in Austin San Antonio has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Central Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 515 PM CDT.

* At 440 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near La Grange,

and is nearly stationary.

HAZARD...Ping pong ball size hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail

damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect

wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

La Grange, O'Quinn, Plum and West Point.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Large hail, damaging winds, and continuous cloud to ground lightning

are occurring with this storm. Move indoors immediately. Lightning is

one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder,

you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SAN ANGELO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Jones County in west central Texas...

* Until 545 PM CDT.

* At 502 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Noodle, and

is nearly stationary.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of

southwestern Jones County, including the following locations...

Stith and Truby.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

The National Weather Service in Austin San Antonio has issued a

Central Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 600 PM CDT.

* At 505 PM CDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line

extending from near La Grange to Muldoon, moving north at 5 mph.

HAZARD...Ping pong ball size hail and 60 mph wind gusts.

IMPACT...People and animals outdoors will be injured. Expect hail

damage to roofs, siding, windows, and vehicles. Expect

wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

La Grange, Muldoon, Floy, Swiss Alp, Plum, Rutersville,

Ammannsville, O'Quinn, Colony, West Point, Mullins Prairie and

Holman.

Large hail, damaging winds, and continuous cloud to ground lightning

are occurring with these storms. Move indoors immediately. Lightning

is one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can hear

thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Thursday, May 11, 2023

_____

FLOOD WARNING

Flood Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

902 PM CDT Sun May 7 2023

...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Texas...

Neches River Near Diboll affecting Trinity, Houston, Angelina,

Tyler and Polk Counties.

For the Neches River...including Lake Palestine, Neches, Alto,

Diboll, Rockland...Minor flooding is forecast.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Do not drive cars through flooded areas.

Caution is urged when walking near riverbanks.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

For more hydrologic information, copy and paste the following website

address into your favorite web browser URL bar:

water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=shv

The next statement will be issued Monday evening at 915 PM CDT.

...FLOOD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL THURSDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast.

* WHERE...Neches River Near Diboll.

* WHEN...Until Thursday morning.

* IMPACTS...At 12.0 feet, Minor lowland flooding occurs. Expect

flooded boat ramps and trails.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 8:15 PM CDT Sunday the stage was 12.3 feet.

- Recent Activity...The maximum river stage in the 24 hours

ending at 8:15 PM CDT Sunday was 12.6 feet.

- Forecast...The river is expected to fall below flood stage

early Wednesday afternoon and continue falling to 11.8 feet

Friday evening.

- Flood stage is 12.0 feet.

- Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of

12.2 feet on 04/04/2017.

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

...FLOOD ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 1115 PM CDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues.

* WHERE...A portion of northern Texas, including the following

county, Knox.

* WHEN...Until 1115 PM CDT.

* IMPACTS...Water over roadways. Overflowing poor drainage areas.

Some low-water crossings may become impassable. River or stream

flows are elevated.

- At 901 PM CDT, local law enforcement reported flooding in the

advisory area. Overflowing poor drainage areas have already

caused minor flooding in the advisory area. Between 2.5 and 3

inches of rain have fallen. A flash flood warning remains in

effect for the Benjamin area where 5 to 6 inches of rain have

fallen.

- Some locations that will experience flooding include...

Benjamin, Rhineland and Truscott.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the

dangers of flooding.

Stay away or be swept away. River banks and culverts can become

unstable and unsafe.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ALLOWED SEVERE THUNDERSTORM

WATCH 197 TO EXPIRE FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

IN TEXAS THIS ALLOWS TO EXPIRE 7 COUNTIES

IN NORTHERN TEXAS

ARCHER BAYLOR FOARD

HARDEMAN KNOX WICHITA

WILBARGER

THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF ARCHER CITY, CROWELL, HOLLIDAY,

KNOX CITY, LAKESIDE CITY, MUNDAY, QUANAH, SCOTLAND, SEYMOUR,

SHEPPARD AFB, VERNON, AND WICHITA FALLS.

The National Weather Service in San Angelo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

West central Callahan County in west central Texas...

East central Taylor County in west central Texas...

* Until 945 PM CDT.

* At 905 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Wylie, moving

east at 15 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* This severe thunderstorm will be near...

Wylie around 910 PM CDT.

Potosi around 940 PM CDT.

Other locations impacted by this severe thunderstorm include Kirby

Lake.

This includes Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 292 and 294.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

243 PM CDT Mon May 8 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of east central Smith,

Upshur and central Gregg Counties through 315 PM CDT...

At 243 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Big Sandy, or near Gladewater, moving northeast at 30 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and nickel 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...

Longview, White Oak, Gladewater, Gilmer, Big Sandy, Ore City,

Clarksville City, East Mountain, Diana, West Mountain, Union Grove,

Warren City, Pritchett and Judson.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

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 3285 9470 3251 9470 3246 9508 3266 9515

3272 9515

TIME...MOT...LOC 1943Z 246DEG 27KT 3260 9503

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 300 PM CDT

FOR SOUTHWESTERN GRIMES...SOUTH CENTRAL BRAZOS...EASTERN WASHINGTON

AND NORTHWESTERN WALLER COUNTIES...

At 245 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 9 miles east of

Brenham, moving northeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

Navasota and Washington.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
The EU authorities, as part of the upcoming 11th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation, are considering the option of banning the export of certain technologies and the use of certain intellectual property objects by it, Bloomberg reported on Monday, citing a number of documents.

The proposals include adding about 70 people and 30 organizations to the sanction lists; expanding restrictions from goods to intellectual property rights and licenses for their production, the agency reports.

The restrictions should also affect more media outlets, including RT Balkan, and IT companies that can supply critical technologies and programs to the Russian intelligence community. The EU also wants to tighten the rules regarding the transshipment of oil from ship to ship at sea and bans on ships entering EU ports.

Bloomberg recalls that it previously reported that the EU was working on bans on the transit of many goods through the Russian Federation, restrictions for ships that turn off transponders, as well as a mechanism that can be used against third countries that help Russia evade sanctions. According to the agency, if the mechanism is approved, two lists will be created in the EU - countries, according to the European Union, giving Russia the opportunity to circumvent sanctions, and prohibited from supplying goods. The initial goal of the initiative is to deter third countries from helping the Russian Federation. In case of failure, the EU member states, by unanimous decision, will be able to replenish the lists with specific countries and goods prohibited for export there.

In addition, 35 structures from China, the UAE, Iran, Armenia, Uzbekistan may be included in the sanction lists in connection with the supply of goods to Russia.

Earlier on Monday, representative of the European Commission (EC) Eric Mamer said that the EC had sent proposals to the EU member states on the 11th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation.

At the end of April, the Financial Times reported, citing sources, that the EU is discussing the possibility of imposing restrictions on the export of certain goods from the European Union to a number of third countries, which, as assumed in Brussels, re-export sanctioned products to Russia. At the same time, as the sources of the publication noted, some EU member states are concerned about the potential consequences of the EC initiative, including how such measures may affect relations with third countries.

Last month, EC President Ursula von der Leyen said that the next, 11th, package of sanctions against Russia would mainly be aimed at preventing circumvention of existing restrictions. Representatives of the European Commission refuse to name any dates for the appearance of this package, referring to the fact that they do not comment while working on the next sanctions.

The approval of these restrictive measures requires the unanimous approval of all 27 EU countries. It is expected that the permanent representatives of the EU member states will hold a meeting on May 10 to discuss proposals for the 11th package of sanctions.
ICRI, a leading institute offering new-age programs, announced its collaboration with Ajeenkya DY Patil University in Pune. ICRI and Ajeenkya DY Patil collaboration provide BBA Aviation Management, and MBA Aviation Management emphasizing industry-oriented education and practical learning to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to be job ready. ICRI developed these programs to expose students to the booming Aviation Sector and hands-on training, preparing them for prosperous careers.

BBA Aviation Management is a top undergraduate program in Aviation and was launched in 2008 by ICRI. It is a three-year full-time course that deals with airline and airport operations management. The course will teach you about air operations, financial accounting, airport planning, passenger prediction, and marketing. It covers introductory cargo courses, business communication, and airline and airport strategic planning. After completing a BBA in Aviation Management, individuals can explore numerous career opportunities in the aviation industry. These opportunities include roles in airline operations, airport management, aviation safety, aviation marketing, aviation finance, and more. Students will be certified by ICAO and University of Waterloo, Canada on Aviation management fundamentals and Airport Authority India for Airports and Airlines.

ICRI is one of the leading institutions in India that has tied up with leading industry providers such as ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization)  which covers topics on the "Fundamentals of Aviation Management" and the Airport Authority of India, which provides training and practical exposure to Airport Management. Similarly, ICRI provides Amadeus Training, which is one of the largest software travel companies specializing in Ticketing & Reservation.

ICRI is a top MBA institute for Aviation Management, renowned for years of excellence in delivering a world-class student experience. The college offers industry immersion programs that give students real-time aviation industry exposure. The MBA Aviation Management program prepares students for various specified roles in the aviation industry by providing in-depth training in different areas, such as airport management, ground handling, safety & security, cabin crew training, ticketing, and other specialized domains. The course curriculum is designed to equip aspirants with specialized knowledge and training in areas to be served in the aviation industry, including fleet management, ground handling, cargo, safety & security, customer service, medical tourism, crew scheduling, and ticketing. This program provides hands-on experience in the following training areas at our facility, making you a preferred candidate for your future employer. Graduates with 50% in Commerce, Statistics, Maths, Science, and Economics are eligible to enroll in this program.

Ajeenkya DY Patil University, one of the known private universities in Pune, offers numerous undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs in multiple academic fields, including engineering, management, media, design, and law. Additionally, ADYPU is a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

Ajeenkya DY Patil University is delighted to partner with ICRI, which is focused on futuristic programs through its unique University-Industry partnership model with a history of imparting High-quality training in new-age careers. We look forward to a path-breaking program in BBA Aviation Management, MBA Aviation Management, BBA Logistics Management, and MBA Logistics Management and leading to the creation of a center of excellence in these domains at ADYPU.

Commenting on the alliance, Kanishk Dugal- COO of ICRI, said, We are pleased with our collaboration with the prestigious Ajeenkya DY Patil University. We aim to achieve the highest academic excellence to meet global standards with relevance to the needs of the industry.It is our continuous endeavor to make students job-ready professionals in New Age sectors, and our campus placements are a strong reflection of the success of ICRI.
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal and Mary Ng, Canadas minister of International Trade, Exports Development, Small Business, and Economic Development, are set to co-chair the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Conversation on Investment and Trade (MDTI) in Ottawa. The MDTI serves as an institutional framework for addressing a broad range of trade and investment-related issues and areas for cooperation between the two countries.

The dialogue is expected to cover topics such as enhancing bilateral trade relations between India and Canada, investment promotion, cooperation in green transition, including critical minerals, and promoting business-to-business (B2B) engagements.

The ministers will also review negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Canada, which began at the previous MDTI meeting in March 2022. Seven rounds of negotiations have been held since then, with the possibility of establishing an interim agreement or Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA).

Goyal is scheduled to visit Toronto during 9-10 May, where he will participate in various trade and investment promotion activities. These include meetings with CEOs of leading Canadian companies, a roundtable of Indian and Canadian CEOs, and interactions with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada. A financial sector roundtable will also be held, with Ficci accompanying Goyal as part of an Indian CEO delegation.

Goyal will also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, North Americas largest food innovation trade show, featuring over 1,000 national and international exhibitors from 50 countries. The event is designed to cater to the retail, food service, and food processing industries.

Indian business delegations from the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), and Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) will participate in the event.

On the sidelines of SIAL-2023, a Trade and Investment Promotion Event for the Agricultural and Food Processing sector will be held, involving Indian companies and Canadian importers. The event is expected to attract participation from around 200 companies.

The MDTI and accompanying events are anticipated to strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations between India and Canada, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in various sectors.
Leading online travel company MakeMyTrip said it has collaborated with Microsoft to make travel planning more inclusive and accessible by introducing voice assisted booking in Indian languages.

The new, in-platform tech stack powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service and Azure Cognitive Services, will converse with the user to offer personalised travel recommendations based on their preferences and curate holiday packages.

"We have pioneered offerings at the intersection of e-commerce, travel, and technology, and are proud to introduce a feature that breaks down the barriers of language, literacy, inability to navigate complex app environments, physical impairments, etc," said Rajesh Magow, Co-Founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip.

"This Generative AI integration through our collaboration with Microsoft involves simple visual cues and voice commands in native Indian languages that will alter the landscape of travel bookings hereon forth," he added.

Currently, the beta version of this integration has been introduced in English and Hindi for flights and holidays customers.

The next stage of voice assisted booking flow will cover other transport offerings. The feature has been embedded into the landing page of the platform and can be activated with a single click, said the company.

MakeMyTrip's latest offering uses the power of AI and Machine Learning to make travel-related solutions all pervasive, no matter the use case or scenario.

Microsoft's large language models and Indic language speech models, coupled with MakeMyTrip's natural language understanding capability and travel domain content creates the base for users to interact with the platform in any Indian language.

"The new update will elevate the user experience and make our platform more inclusive, accessible, and easy to navigate. The beta phase will offer us learnings to further fine-tune all use cases before rolling it out to users at scale. As such, we'll do a very controlled roll-out of this feature with a subset of our customers," said Sanjay Mohan, Group Chief Technology Officer, MakeMyTrip.

The intuitive interface powered by Azure OpenAI Service's GPT technology, will analyse specific user requirements and sift through thousands of options, to recommend, customize and book holiday packages, transforming what has been a time-consuming process into a quick and hassle-free experience.

It will also summarize hotel reviews, extracting unique traveller impressions, that is cohort specific - whether a solo traveller, business traveller, couple, family, etc.

"Bringing together MakeMyTrip's expertise with Microsoft's AI capabilities, including Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, our collaboration will help make travel more inclusive and accessible for travelers across India, with trust and security at the core," said Sangeeta Bavi, Executive Director, Digital Natives, Microsoft India.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As a young Greek American, Despina Kotsis has always felt a strong connection to mati or the evil eye. A universal symbol of protection, the blue and white symbol serves as a deterrent to wicked energy in the Greek culture and Kotsis has long cherished its significance and worth.

So when she began designing a line of high end streetwear in 2018, she decided to place mati at its center.

I call it the Dope Eye because its a modernized version of the evil eye - not just your basic blue and white design, noted Kotsis. The lashes are the New York City skyline, made to represent me as a Greek American living out my dreams in NYC.

Despina Kotsis, who owns and operates MINX NYC, created a handbag and other fashion items that will be featured in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" this fall. (Photo courtesy of MINX NYC)Courtesy of MINX NYC

Kotsis, whos just 23, designed the logo four years ago and started plastering it all over hoodies, sweatpants and other pieces of trendy, oversized clothing. Within a few months, her designs picked up a following.

I was a high school senior and started playing around with this because I couldnt believe how much streetwear was blowing up, Kotsis said. Kids in my school would wait hours in line for a Supreme hoodie or some other random brand. When I created my design, people started asking for shirts. Then some LA-based blog picked it up and it was just a domino effect. Sales went crazy and magazines started calling. Next thing I know, I was on the pages of Teen Vogue.

Kotsis, who lives in Bay Ridge, started attending classes at St. John Universitys Staten Island campus, all while balancing the day-to-day tasks of entrepreneurship. Her business, MINX NYC, now has a strong online presence and has garnered the attention of some of Hollywoods elite.

The MINX NYC brand features a range of streetwear and includes hoodies, t-shirts and accessories. (Photo courtesy of MINX NYC)Courtesy of MINX NYC

Nia Vardalos from My Big Fat Greek Wedding reached out asking if I could send my designs to be featured in her next film  My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3, Kotsis said. She said she wanted to support me because Im a Greek woman and a small business owner. She reposted my brand in her story, ordered my hoodie and reposted it on Insta. They used one of my bags during filming last summer. It will appear in the movie, which drops on September 8.

For Kotsis, who essentially launched her fashion business on a whim, its a dream come true.

Ive loved art my whole life and I always thought it would be cool to be an art teacher, she said. But now Im here running this online store and having my product featured in a major film. I cant believe this is the direction that my life took.

And while sales of her merch declined during the pandemic, Kotsis is proud to say she has once again found her stride.

Its so hard to follow your dreams in this world today but if youre passionate, they will come to life, she concluded. Its crazy for me to see the growth of this business and this brand. Im so happy to be doing what I truly love.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  This 36-year-old mans forte is blasting victims with pepper spray, authorities allege.

Albert Forte of Gower Street in Meiers Corners was arrested on April 21 in connection with two bizarre incidents that occurred months apart on Staten Island, according to the criminal complaint and police.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A man wearing a ski mask stole a Gray BMW in Bulls Head before ditching the vehicle and fleeing the scene, police said.

The NYPD received a call for a grand larceny auto for a vehicle in front of 2018 Richmond Ave. around 3:16 p.m., according to preliminary information from an NYPD spokesman.

The vehicle was recovered at Travis Avenue and Draper Place, less than a mile away, said police. The suspect then fled the scene.

Preliminary information indicated a female was inside the car; however, police did not immediately have information on that persons age. No injuries were reported, police said.

The NYPD searched the area following the incident. No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.

This is a developing story. Further information will be posted as it becomes available.



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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Hip-hop icons Wu-Tang Clan and Nas are collaborating to bring their songs to stages across the world as part of the 2023 N.Y. State of Mind tour. This second leg of the tour will pick up where the first leg left off in 2022.

The artists behind hits like C.R.E.A.M. and N.Y. State of Mind are set to perform their setlists overseas and here at home in New York City. The rappers are expected to kickoff the tour May 9 with shows in Oceania before heading to Europe, with stops in the United Kingdom, France and more.

Though the tour does not have a stop in Shaolin (aka Staten Island), Wu-Tang and Nas will return North America in September with a stop at Brooklyns Barclays Center on Sept. 27. The masters of East Coast hip-hop will then head to the Jersey Shore, performing in Atlantic City, N.J., on Sept. 29.

***

Scroll down for full schedule and links to buy tickets on Ticketmaster. (Ticketmaster has tickets for all dates available.)

***

Joining them on the North American leg of the tour will be the hippies of hip-hop De La Soul.

Note: For popular shows, it can be worth checking the secondary ticket market, which includes Vivid Seats, StubHub, TicketNetwork, TicketCity and MegaSeats.

NORTH AMERICA N.Y. STATE OF MIND TOUR DATES AND LINKS FOR TICKETS:

Sept. 20  Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.

Sept. 22  Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fla.

Sept. 23  Dailys Place in Jacksonville, Fla.

Sept. 24  Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa, Fla.

Sept. 26  Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

Sept. 27  Barclays Center in Brooklyn

Sept. 29  Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

Oct. 1  Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada

Oct. 2  Place Bell in Laval, Canada

Oct. 4  Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Oct. 7  Target Center in Minneapolis.

Oct. 8  United Center in Chicago.

Oct. 10  Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Canada

Oct. 13  Rogers Place in Edmonton, Canada

Oct. 14  Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Canada

Oct. 16  Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada

Oct. 17  Moda Center in Portland, Ore.

Oct. 18  Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle.

Oct. 21  MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Oct. 22  Yaamava Resort & Casino at San Manuel in Highland, Calif.
Gov. Kathy Hochul appeared in Buffalo on Monday to announce New York States $229 billion budget is setting aside $1 billion in additional funding to address mental health care needs in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The announcement comes about a week after Jordan Neely, 30, died from compression of the neck, due to a chokehold that police say was applied by retired Marine Daniel Penny aboard a New York City subway train.

Hochul called Neelys death a wake up call for public officials to address mental health.

Do I acknowledge how horrific it was to view a video of Jordan Neely being killed for a being a passenger on our subway trains, Hochul told the press last week.

Our hearts go out to his family. Im pleased the D.A. is looking into this matter, as I said, there had to be consequences and so well see how this unfolds; his family deserves justice.

Neely had reportedly been shouting at people on an F train in Manhattan when fellow riders tackled him and Penny applied a chokehold that lasted until Neelys body went limp, according to police officials and video of the encounter, the Associated Press reported.

Video of the incident posted online showed the man identified as Penny holding Neely in a headlock for several minutes as Neely tried to break free. A second passenger can be seen holding down Neelys arms, while a third person holds down his shoulder, the report went on to say.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A never-ending flow of bikes filled Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island as riders made their way across the finish line during the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour.

More than 30,000 cyclists geared up for this years 40-mile tour on Sunday  spanning the citys five boroughs, beginning in Lower Manhattan and traveling north into the Bronx, before heading to Queens, Brooklyn and, ultimately, crossing the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and concluding in Fort Wadsworth, which featured a finish festival.

Bikers at the end of the TD Five Boro Bike Tour wait to finish at the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. (Staten Island Advance/Joseph Ostapiuk)

Every year, the TD Five Boro Bike Tour brings together cyclists from all walks of life and skill levels for an opportunity to experience New York completely free of cars.

Cyclists  many dressed up for the occasion and donning yellow Five Boro Bike Tour helmets  were ecstatic to cross the finish line on Staten Island and receive their medals. Rows of bicycles filled the Fort Wadsworth area as riders enjoyed a bite to eat after their journey with music by the band, BOD, a high-energy rock-and-roll cover band played by veterans of the New York music scene.

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

The Staten Island-bound lower level of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge remains closed on Sunday until 7 p.m. The upper level of the bridge has remained open in both directions throughout the entirety of the event, though it will only be accessible in the Staten Island-bound direction from the Belt Parkway and 92 Street entrance ramps.

To accommodate the final leg of the tour, the Department of Transportation announced several Staten Island streets would be closed on Sunday, at the discretion of the NYPD.

All proceeds from the TD Five Boro Bike Tour go toward Bike New Yorks free bike education programs, which provide services to over 30,000 adults and children each year throughout the five boroughs.

Bikers at the end of the TD Five Boro Bike Tour wait to finish at the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. (Staten Island Advance/Joseph Ostapiuk)

Bikers at the end of the TD Five Boro Bike Tour wait to finish at the St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. (Staten Island Advance/Joseph Ostapiuk)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)

More than 30,000 cyclists participated in the New York City TD Five Boro Bike Tour on Sunday, which concluded with a finish festival at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. (Dennis Rees for the Staten Island Advance)
The Russian occupation authorities, together with their families, documentation and office equipment, are leaving the settlements of the temporarily occupied territories of Kherson region: Skadovsk, Mykhaylivka, Petrivka, Shevchenko, Shyroke, Ulyanivka and Chervone, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reports.

"In the town of Skadovsk, the curtailment of the activities of the district and town administrations has been noted. So, on the night of May 6-7, the occupiers loaded documentation, office equipment and other property of state institutions into motor transport, and on the morning of May 7, together with their families, a significant part of the Russian occupation administration left the town," the General Staff said in a Facebook message on Monday.

According to the General Staff, currently a similar situation is observed in such settlements of the region as Mykhaylivka, Petrivka, Shevchenko, Shyroke, Ulyanivka and Chervone.

"Taking into account the many kilometers of traffic jams that have recently formed at the entrance to Crimea and in the area of the Kerch Bridge, the invaders plan to carry out the export of documentation and looted property from state institutions of the temporarily seized Kherson region by sea, using a dry cargo ship, through the port of Berdyansk," the message says.
San Mateo, CA (94402)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 77F. ENE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low 53F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph.
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PwC Australia boss Tom Seymour has stepped down from his position as the fallout from the tax leak scandal continues to weigh on the firm.

The firm on Monday said that Seymours departure as CEO had come after discussions with the PwC Australia Board of Partners.

PwC Australia chief executive Tom Seymour. Credit: Michael Quelch

We agreed with Tom that this is in the best interests of the firm and our stakeholders, PwC said in a statement.

In the coming months a new CEO will be elected by the partners.
Amnon Weinstein was working in his father Moshes workshop in Tel Aviv when a young man brought in a violin for repair with ashes inside its case.

It was the first time he had encountered a violin dated from the Holocaust. Finding and restoring objects like it soon became his lifes work, culminating in the Violins of Hope collection.

Amnon Weinstein in his workshop in Israel. Credit: Moira Blumenthal Productions

It took me a long time to work with this violin, it scared me because I knew it was played on the way to the gas chamber, but I knew it must play again, says Weinstein.

Weinstein and his fathers efforts to restore the culturally and historically significant objects are the subject of the play Stories from the Violins of Hope, which opens in Sydney at the end of the month.
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Review Eating outSt Kilda Is the third time a charm for the Saint in St Kilda? After a lavish do-over, the 1915 hotel has reopened as a multi-level megavenue. And at Saint Dining, theyre pulling out all the stops. Larissa Dubecki May 9, 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

1 / 8 Saint Dining is situated in an atrium surrounded by soaring red brick walls. Joe Armao 2 / 8 Fremantle octopus skewers with roasted peppers, harissa and puffed capers. Joe Armao 3 / 8 Chargrilled carrots with caramelised yoghurt. Joe Armao 4 / 8 Go-to dish: Hiramasa kingfish crudo with tomato consomme and sea herbs. Joe Armao 5 / 8 Grilled jumbo Mooloolaba prawns. Joe Armao 6 / 8 Saint Dining features booths with leather seats surrounding marble tables . Sharyn Cairns 7 / 8 Steaks cooked over the Josper grill are at the heart of the Saint Dining menu. Griffin Simm 8 / 8 Saint Bar greets guests before they explore the rest of the venues spaces. Sharyn Cairns Previous Slide Next Slide 14 / 20 How we score Contemporary$$$ Even 24-hour party people have to grow up eventually. The first time I visited the Saint Hotel it was the early 2000s and food wasnt high on anyones list of consumables. The second time came a decade later, in its disco Thai phase. Now, after standing empty for a few years, its entered its third act as an upmarket pub-slash-brasserie where you might fancy kicking on in the glam cocktail bar upstairs following your $95 crayfish pasta. Re-zhuzhed by new owners into an approximation of a fancy Tribeca steakhouse, the multi-level venue is anticipating a changing of the seasons for poor old Fitzroy Street. The quintuple lures of Saint Dining, front bar Saint Bar, terrace bar Bar 54, and a yet-to-open wine bar and a listening and cocktail bar are a bunch of shiny things being dangled before a style-conscious Melbourne demi-monde with ADHD and cash to splash.

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St Kildas Saint Hotel has glamorous makeover and plans for five venues in one building Its a lot to take in, but were here for the dining room. Set at the ground floor of an atrium hemmed in by red brick and walls of glass, its a self-referential world of interconnected booths, where black marble tabletops are lit by tiny lamps and banquettes are upholstered in kid-soft leather  a sort of modern Copacabana, where going to the loos means promenading above the fray along a glassed walkway. A glass walkway overlooks the atrium dining rooms interlocking leather booths. Joe Armao The occasional flash of flame comes from the worlds most discreet open kitchen. Thatd be the Josper wood oven and grill, a fancy bit of kit that justifies its expense via executive chef Gary Lai (The Atlantic, Amber Hong Kong) adding its smoky, charry, real-cooking touch to just about every dish that passes through, from a single jumbo king prawn ($16) with sweet flesh holding its own against fermented chilli, to dessert where smoked ice-cream adds a spiky note of intrigue to a deconstructed apple pie ($21). Even the kingfish crudo ($28) gets a whirl, the excellent firm-fleshed tiles of fish bearing the gentle hallmark of wood smoke. A Melbourne entree cliche lifted into a dish of lilting loveliness, it sits in a pale tomato consomme with nasturtium leaves and sea succulents that combine into an impressionistic wash of freshness.

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Go-to dish: Hiramasa kingfish crudo with tomato consomme and sea herbs. Joe Armao Table bread isnt a thing here, predictably. Instead, for $11 you get a lovely puffy, garlic-oiled and griddle-marked flatbread with smoked salt. Its emblematic of a place in which you get what you pay for, although the sleight of hand gives me the pip with the skewers: priced singly on the menu, it transpires they can only be ordered in pairs; like magic, that $12 starter becomes $24. But the impaled proteins hit their KPIs with meat as charry and juicy as you could want. Grunty octopus ($24 for two) gets a romesco-esque sauce tuned up with fried capers, while chicken oysters ($22 for two) with egg-yolk emulsion (lets call it mayo) and nubbles of crisp skin are so tender and smoky Im tempted to order another round, only dont because that would mean two more. Service is hardest to get right during a quiet shift, when underutilised-slash-bored waiters standing around an empty room can make it feel like an awkward house party. There are some dropped stitches  it would be good to know straight up what the fish of the day is, for instance  but ask and ye shall receive informed guidance on the food and especially the wine. Its a good list, too, a rock-solid document put together by someone whose love of the devils juice shines through a by-the-glass section that includes a Barossa Valley frontignac and a Tassie cabernet among its road-less-travelled drops.

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Mains double down on the Saints modus operandi of accessible yet smart, technically sound cookery. You can feel confident dropping $64 on 300 grams of grass-fed Scotch fillet despite knowing it comes blushingly naked. Its juicy, flavour-packed, the poster steak for medium-rare perfection. Fries are $11, while sauces, including herbed butter, are $4 each. Theyll throw in mustard gratis. And that pasta, with its curly ribbons of malfadine twirled around Apollo Bay cray meat in a buttery bisque sauce with just a touch of chilli, along with cherry tomatoes and fried basil leaves? The plate is decorated with the creatures shell (like that koan about the tree falling in the forest, not only does crustacean need to be eaten; it needs to be seen to be eaten) and at $95 Im tempted to ask to take it home, but the dish is also generous and rich enough to be foolhardy to tackle alone. So keep your friends close and your credit card closer. Enough said, really. The low-down Vibe Glam with a touch of Instagram Go-to dish Hiramasa kingfish crudo, $28 Drinks Solid, interesting wine list with plenty of by-the-glass interest; cocktails tread a classic and nuevo native ingredient line Cost $200 for two, plus drinks Is St Kilda about to have a restaurant and bar renaissance?

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Review Eating outSurry Hills Dont miss the carbonara at Italian-Filipino fusion restaurant Fauna This blink-and-miss-it restaurant in a Surry Hills terrace might not yet offer a fully polished package, but its definitely one to watch. Terry Durack May 9, 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

1 / 6 Fauna seats 16 diners downstairs, another 16 upstairs and 14 in the rear courtyard. Wolter Peeters 2 / 6 School prawns with yuzu kosho aioli. Wolter Peeters 3 / 6 Barbecue Hornsby Shire spatchcock with pickled slaw and lime ponzu. Wolter Peeters 4 / 6 Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara. Wolter Peeters 5 / 6 Piadina with Berkshire pork cheek. Wolter Peeters 6 / 6 Kalamansi tart. Wolter Peeters Previous Slide Next Slide 13.5 / 20 How we score Italian$$$ For a restaurant named Fauna, there isnt much in the way of wildlife around. Unless you count the hordes of loyal Swans marching down Fitzroy Street bound for the night match at the SCG, I suppose, but they all look pretty well-behaved. Fauna is the latest addition to the burgeoning restaurant scene along this neighbourly stretch, which includes the likes of Chez Crix, Lokal and Sang by Mabasa. If Surry Hills ever decides to secede from Sydney, the local populace probably wouldnt even notice, because they dont need to eat anywhere else. Its a small blink-and-miss-it terrace house, with just 16 diners seated downstairs, another 16 upstairs and 14 in the rear courtyard. This makes for a more personal experience, with everyone in the room happy to join in and sing happy birthday to a complete stranger.

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Co-owner Geraint Coles of Bondis erstwhile Panama House is in tonight, subbing for manager Quentin Touitou, who is on leave. In the tiny kitchen is head chef Ace Espiritu, formerly of Icebergs Dining Room & Bar. But while the Italian-leaning menu is filled with things such as arancini, piadina and pasta arrabiata; its also filtered through Espiritus Filipino heritage, which adds a level of interest and curiosity. Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara. Wolter Peeters That piadina ($23), for instance, is whipped away from its Italian roots and served on the side of a meaty, fatty chip-chop of charcoal-grilled pork jowl, in the style of Filipino sisig. Its a dish of full-on flavours that doesnt quite come together, because you want to spoon the stew on top of the piadina and eat it in the hand, but the bread wont bend. An idea worth refining. An entree of school prawns ($19) is great (isnt it always?), coming as a pile-up of head-on, deep-fried pinkies ready to swipe though a mound of aioli flavoured with yuzu kosho. Arrosticini, or skewers of char-grilled lamb (two for $22), come warm rather than hot, with a good green herb sauce. A rocket salad ($12) has a low-impact dressing. Co-owner Julia Quisumbing has made the most of the space, running a mirrored wall and cushy banquette around the dining area. Textures are marble, wood and glass, and the front room, particularly, is a nice place to be.

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The wine list is still a work in progress, with small stocks of hand-picked wines. You might just get someone bringing a few bottles to the table as suggestions for you to try, which is how I found a 2021 Stargazer Rada ($88) a fruity, savoury mix of pinot noir and pinot meunier from Tasmanian winemaker, Samantha Connew. The menu lists three pasta dishes and five main courses, built for sharing. Of these, a heavily brined barbecue Hornsby Shire spatchcock ($28) isnt as straightforward as it might sound, with its Korean-style pickled slaw and salty soy-ponzu dipping sauce. The kitchen is on surer ground with pasta, and a generous dish of spaghetti carbonara ($30) is pretty much what you want when you want carbonara. A well-emulsified sauce brings together guanciale, pecorino, parmesan, egg yolk and pepper, coating the strands of nicely al dente pasta with needy clinginess. While the Italian-leaning menu is filled with things such as arancini, piadina and pasta arrabiata; its also filtered through Espiritus Filipino heritage. To end, a kalamansi tart ($19) is a cute twist on lemon meringue pie, with a strong, pushy tartness that acts in self-defence against a sugary meringue topping and the jug of dulce de leche poured over the top at the table.

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As I said, Fauna is still a work in progress, and a busy night might see a few yawning gaps in service, or a relaxed attitude to the temperature of dishes sent out. The Italian influence is the most promising, with the Asian flavours feeling a bit forced. But were at an intriguing stage in Australia, where young chefs want to express who they are through their own cooking, not just that of others. Which makes Fauna, and other small restaurants like it, very promising. The low-down Vibe: Refined and rustic Italian food with an Asian filter Drinks: A constantly changing if limited wine list Go-to dish: Spaghetti carbonara, $30

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More than half the children who try to contact the Kids Helpline are failing to get through, as experts warn the mental health crisis among young people is worsening.

The free service responded to almost 1900 suicide attempts last year, with these cases now making up 37 per cent of all emergency interventions, up from 33 per cent in 2021.

Charlene Peng advocates for youth mental health services while dealing with her own depression. Credit: Penny Stephens

It is calling for an urgent injection of funds from federal and state governments, so it can hire more counsellors to pick up the phones and respond to distressed children online.

We are seeing increasing numbers of young people facing lots of demands in their lives, said Tracy Adams, the chief executive of yourtown, the not-for-profit organisation which operates the 24/7 helpline.
The prosecutor in the rape trial of former Coalition staffer Bruce Lehrmann says he entirely misread an exchange he had with high-profile journalist Lisa Wilkinson ahead of a controversial speech she made at the Logie awards that resulted in the trial being delayed.

Shane Drumgold said he should have listened further to Wilkinson when the former Ten journalist and presenter read to him what she proposed to say should she win a Logie award for a televised interview with Brittany Higgins, in which the former Liberal adviser alleged she was raped by a colleague in Parliament House.

ACT Director of Public Prosecutions Shane Drumgold arrives at the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal on Monday. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

I had no idea a speech was going to be made, Drumgold told a public inquiry into the handling of the trial. I accept I entirely misread the situation  I thought this was someone telling me they were up for an award.

Asked by the inquirys head, former Queensland Supreme Court judge Walter Sofronoff, whether you thought she was bragging about being nominated.
I have not been able to move on or feel any sense of peace. She said each time she feels she is starting to recover mentally, something new will arise such as a court date, and she relives the same trauma over and over. The woman said discussion of the incident on social media and reporting in the media had been extremely difficult to handle. Those things dont just hurt, but they stay with me, she said. This assault was something horrible that happened to me, something I feel that was very private, yet people speak about it like they were there.

The woman said she remained extremely insecure about her body. I am stronger, and I am wiser, but I am damaged, and I wont ever be the same person, she said. Haynes trial heard he stopped at the womans home in the Newcastle suburb of Fletcher on September 30, 2018, on his way back to Sydney after a bucks weekend, leaving a $550 taxi outside and telling the driver he needed to collect a bag. The Crown case against Hayne was that the possibility of sex evaporated for the woman when she became aware of the waiting vehicle, after a knock at the door or a beep of the taxis horn. In her evidence, including recordings played in closed court, the woman said Hayne was rough and forceful and performed the acts despite her protestations of no and stop, leaving her bleeding.

Sfinas said Hayne was motivated by his own sexual gratification and engendered fear into the victim. Defence barrister Margaret Cunneen, SC, submitted, regarding the context of the offending, there had been unambiguous sexual contact leading up to the visit, and there was talking about f---ing by the complainant. In reply, the prosecutor said: In any event, when the time came, there was unambiguous lack of consent. Cunneen argued the nature of the sexual offences, as oral and digital acts over 30 seconds, was a matter tending towards less seriousness. She said Hayne was a very different man now. His life ... has turned around considerably since that hiatus in his relationship with his now-wife.

Loading A number of character references and letters were tendered including from Bonnici, Haynes mother and his pastor, who Cunneen said spoke of his commitment to his Christian faith. Cunneen said Bonnici was not in court due to media interest, but continues to give her full support to her husband. She said her client had been held in onerous conditions on remand in a three-by-four-metre cell at Silverwater prison and allowed outside for 15 to 20 minutes each day. Cunneen said Hayne would serve his sentence entirely in protective custody, noting a forensic psychologist reported there were unique hardships associated with his incarceration.

He cant even get a haircut because hes not allowed to mix with anyone, Cunneen said. She said Hayne had lost a stellar rugby league career, including an extremely lucrative contract, and the public vilification had impacted his ability to regain employment during proceedings and in the future. Haynes bail was revoked in the NSW Supreme Court 10 days after the most recent guilty verdicts. His first trial ended in a hung jury, but he was convicted by a second jury and jailed in 2021 for five years and nine months, with a non-parole period of three years and eight months. However, he served just nine months behind bars due to his convictions being quashed on appeal and a retrial ordered. The complainant, who gave evidence at Haynes first trial which was replayed at his second trial, was recalled to give evidence at the third trial.
Premier Chris Minns has defended his governments decision to not light up the sails of the Sydney Opera House for King Charles coronation over the weekend, saying the hefty cost of the lights could be better used elsewhere.

Flagging a change in the way the state government deals with a growing number of requests to light Sydneys most famous building, the premier said the government had been inundated with requests from organisations and religious groups.

The Sydney Opera House sails were lit up after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Credit: Mark Baker

In 2012, the Opera House was lit up 23 days over [a year], he said on 2GBs Ben Fordham Live, owned by Nine, on Monday morning. Its up to over 70 days now. The cost adds up to the NSW taxpayers every time you do it.

Lighting the Opera House costs between $80,000 and $100,000 every night. The previous Coalition government had approved lighting the building for the event, but Minns rejected the move once in office.
An important factor in the formation of the newest national memory was the recognition of the exceptional role of all the Defense Forces of Ukraine, volunteers and the awareness of citizens of their own role as a single people, sociologists note.

This conclusion was reached by the authors of the sociological survey entitled "Symbols, events and personalities that form the national memory of the war with Russia", conducted by the sociological service of the Razumkov Center together with the Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation, the results of which are published on the official website of the Foundation.

In particular, 78% share the opinion that the greatest role in repelling the Russian offensive was played by the Ukrainian Defense Forces - the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the National Guard, Territorial Defense Forces and volunteer formations. The second common answer is the statement that the main contribution in the first months of the war was made by the entire Ukrainian people. With an indicator of 62% in the country, it is the highest in the South - 77%. It is the lowest again in the Eastern macroregion of the country.

The third common opinion is the recognition of the role of volunteers and the most patriotic citizens of the country - this opinion is shared by more than 46% of respondents, with the highest results in Central Ukraine.

According to sociologists, against this background, the central and regional authorities should realize and accept their secondary role in ensuring the successful defense of the country in the first months of the war.

Although the President of Ukraine has an extremely high level of legitimacy and recognition of his role in the defense of Ukraine, only 24% of respondents consider the role of the central government (the president and the government) to be the main one in the first months of the war, with a relatively even distribution of this opinion across all regions of the country.

Answering the open question "Which politicians or public figures played an important role in the defense of the country?", 65% of respondents mentioned President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, 47% - Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny.

The following positions were taken by a significant margin by other heads of Ukrainian military departments and generals, as well as civilian authorities. Among the public figures and volunteers, Ukrainians especially noted volunteer Serhiy Prytula.

As noted, it is already possible to observe how some events, for example, long battles and operations, like the defense of Bakhmut or Azovstal, leave a mark in the collective memory of Ukrainians.

According to social research, more than a third of Ukrainians called the defense of Kyiv and Kyiv region, the rapid occupation of the South of the country (Kherson region and Azov region) outstanding events. More than a quarter of Ukrainians consider it important to destroy the flagship of the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation, the missile cruiser Moskva, on April 14, 2022.

The significance of this event has been repeatedly emphasized in the media, in particular because over the past 40 years it was the world's first case of the sinking of a flagship. Even more symbolism to this event was given, firstly, by the consonance of the name of the cruiser with the capital of the aggressor state, and secondly, by the fact that Ukraine had a much less powerful surface fleet than the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Federation, while Russia used the fleet to create the illusion of "imperial greatness".

Many other tragic and heroic pages of the war are imprinted in the memory of Ukrainians: the occupation of the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, the protests of Kherson residents against the occupiers, the supply of Western weapons, massive missile strikes and the like. As the survey results show, there are no one or two events that Ukrainians remember the most.

Such operations as the defense of Bakhmut and Azovstal are already being reproduced in the cultural product, becoming spaces of places of memory that can serve as a potential for asserting the identity of Ukrainians in the future (in particular, as a mobilization factor), sociologists believe.

As for regional differences, the expected trend is widespread that residents of certain regions tend to attach more weight in their memories of the war to the events that took place in their regions themselves. For example, the defense of Kyiv hit about 50% of the Center's respondents, while in the East this figure does not exceed 17%. The rapid occupation of the South was most remembered by residents of the Southern macroregion, while the AFU counteroffensive in Kharkiv region became a landmark event for residents of the East.

In 2022, the resonant events were the visits of foreign leaders and their support for Ukraine. According to the survey results, it was the weapons abroad (13.5%) and the support of allies (11.8%) and partners that inspired Ukrainians with the most hope and optimism.

According to Ukrainians, among foreign politicians or public figures, the most important role in supporting Ukraine was played by U.S. President Joe Biden (58%), Polish President Andrzej Duda (50%), former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson (49%). Significantly fewer people mentioned French President Emmanuel Macron (10%) and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (9%).

In the course of active hostilities and the development of a new information reality by Ukrainians, military experts and analysts have become important. According to the survey results, the circle of the most professional and objective persons covering the events of the war included both representatives of the Ukrainian authorities (Volodymyr Zelenskyy - 56%, Mykhailo Podoliak - 34%, Oleksiy Danilov - 21%, etc.) and independent experts, journalists and bloggers (Oleh Zhdanov - 23%, Yuriy Butusov - 17%, Vitaliy Portnikov - 13%, Serhiy Sternenko - 11%, etc.).

Ukrainians' assessment of the activities of the Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine through the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate) is also interesting. As of March 2023, more than 50% in each region considered the activities of this structure a factor contributing to the Russian invasion, while up to 18%, depending on the region, did not agree with this.

As before, about 92% of Ukrainians believe in Ukraine's victory in the war against Russia. At the same time, there are no significant regional differences - residents of all regions of Ukraine in the absolute majority believe that Ukraine will win over the aggressor. Speaking of war crimes, most of all in the memory of Ukrainians are imprinted the executions and tortures of residents of Bucha by the occupiers, which surfaced after the de-occupation of Kyiv region and became chronologically the first evidence of the inhumane treatment of Ukrainians by the occupiers.

Ukrainians are also united in their attitude to the leader of the Russian Federation - 94% of respondents believe that Putin is a modern Hitler.

The survey was conducted from March 23 to March 30, 2023 by face-to-face interview in all regions of Ukraine, with the exception of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and in Zaporizhia, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, Kherson regions, the survey was conducted in those territories controlled by the Government of Ukraine and where the fighting isnt ongoing.

Some 2,017 respondents aged 18 and over were surveyed. The theoretical sampling error does not exceed 2.3%. The structure of the sample population reproduces the demographic structure of the adult population of the territories in which the survey was conducted, as of the beginning of 2022 (by age, gender, type of settlement).
Schools and students who sat the NAPLAN test in term one will have to wait until term three to receive their results, despite sitting the test two months earlier than they did in previous years.

Principals and education experts said the expected July release of 2023 individual and school-level NAPLAN results was a wasted opportunity to give teachers more time to use the data to help students grow their numeracy and literacy skills.

Scoresby Secondary College principal Gail Major says her school had hoped to see this years NAPLAN results earlier in the year. Credit: Joe Armao

The NAPLAN test underwent two important changes this year that were meant to give schools earlier access to their results. The test was held in mid-March instead of May, and all students did the test online for the first time.

NAPLAN was shifted to March so the results would be available earlier in the year to inform teaching and learning programs, the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority said in the week students sat the test this year.
Building surveyors claim the states construction watchdog ignored their warnings about its virtual home building inspection system for two years and are calling for the bodys leadership to be overhauled.

The Age and 60 Minutes revealed on Sunday that inspectors working for the Victorian Building Authority completed hundreds of virtual audits rather than physically attending construction sites, despite legal advice that these inspections by iPhone might breach the states Building Act.

The Australian Institute of Building Surveyors said the revelations mirrored complaints it had received from its members employed at the authority or working externally as private building surveyors or municipal building surveyors.

AIBS is aware that the Victorian Building Authority has used virtual inspections for at least two years and, during this time, we have made it clear to the VBA that we do not condone this practice except in exceptional circumstances, said president Troy Olds.
In summer, there are plenty of music events, either live concerts in Place du Casino (Casino Square) or sit-down dinners at the Salle des Etoiles in The Summer Sporting, all part of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival. Its great value when you consider the cost of concert tickets these days. See montecarlosbm.com

Accountant Bruce Hutchison grew up in Lindfield, Sydney, and relocated to Monaco after a 12-year stint in London. He has now lived in the principality on the French Riviera for 22 years. It was never the plan, but I now call Monaco home, he says. See visitmonaco.com

Bruce Hutchison has lived in Monaco for 22 years.

As Monaco is small (roughly half the size of New Yorks Central Park) you can see a lot just by walking around. Stick to the area around the casino (Monte Carlo) then down to the main port and then up to the Palace on Le Rocher (the Rock). That walk should take between 30 to 40 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes as Monaco is very hilly (when my Aunty Pat would visit she always had me carry her high heels in a shopping bag, so she could still make a good entrance). Its hard to take a bad photo from the lookout point outside the Palace, which faces out over the main port and the Monte Carlo casino with the French and Italian coastline stretching into the distance.

DRINK

When friends visit, I always kick off an evening with drinks at Le Bar Americain in the Hotel de Paris. It is well-placed overlooking Casino Square, and has great drinks and service. So many people have sat at the bar over the years, including Errol Flynn and Winston Churchill, to name just two. The live music is an added treat. The drinks menu is so long its like a book, so you can order any wine or drink in the world! I keep it simple and always order champagne. See montecarlosbm.com
London: Australias Governor-General David Hurley says the Kings immense feeling of responsibility in becoming sovereign was evident in his face during Saturdays historic coronation service, despite decades spent preparing for the role.

Hurley, joined by his wife Linda, was the first Australian-born governor-general to attend a British monarchs coronation in a visit that marked his fourth trip to Britain within the past 12 months.

King Charles before and after his coronation. Credit: Getty Images

The couple were among the 20,000-strong crowd at Windsor on Sunday (UK time) for a concert to honour Charles III and wife, Camilla, as Britons took to the streets to celebrating the crowning of their new King and Queen.

Having taken the call from Buckingham Palace last September to be informed of the late Queens death, Hurley said he was privileged to attend the coronation  the first governor-general to do so in a century. The governor-general said he was taken aback by the personal nature of the service, and in particular an intimate moment between the King and his son and heir William, Prince of Wales.
Other times, Biden  his mood buoyed by a crowd full of supporters, whether among Democratic lawmakers or at a lively union hall  is often speaking off-the-cuff, eager to make the audience laugh by poking a little fun at himself. At the annual White House Correspondents Dinner on April 29, Biden made his age an early  and frequent  punchline. You guys were founded 122 years ago  thats not when I got endorsed, Biden told a crowd of machine operators and engineers with the International Union of Operating Engineers in Accokeek, Maryland, in April. He referenced my career of 280 years here at a Black History Month reception before being interrupted by laughter, and at an Air Force event last month, Biden noted that president Dwight Eisenhower addressed the first class of the Air Force Academy more than six decades ago but that I wasnt there ... no matter what the press says. Whether deliberate or candid, its nonetheless a strategy that evokes how Ronald Reagan defused questions about his age  then 73  during the 1984 campaign. In a debate against 56-year-old Democrat Walter Mondale, Reagan pledged he would not make age an issue nor exploit, for political purposes, my opponents youth and inexperience. Republican Ronald Reagan, left, also got on the front foot when it came to his age. Credit: Bettmann Biden is doing exactly what he should be doing. Hes embracing it, hes having fun with it, hes doing exactly what Ronald Reagan did  injecting humour and self-deprecation into it, said Michael LaRosa, a former press secretary for first lady Jill Biden who also worked on the presidents 2020 campaign.

By saying the quiet part out loud, everyone is in on the joke. He knows his age, and hes not pretending to be somebody hes not. And thats the most important quality in a candidate. Nikki Haley, former ambassador to the United Nations, has questioned Joe Bidens ability to serve for an entire second term. Credit: Bloomberg Loading The president could also find himself with a general election challenger nearly as old as he is, potentially neutralising the issue of his own age. Donald Trump, the leading Republican candidate, is 76 years old, although voters have shown less concern about his age and sharpness compared to that of Biden, according to some polls. Trump, for his part, insists the issue is not age, but Bidens mental acuity. Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley, struggling to gain traction in the still-forming Republican primary field, has consistently made Bidens age a centrepiece of her campaign  even going as far as saying he may not make it to the end of his second term, when hell be 86.

Bidens personal doctor said after the presidents most recent physical exam in February that Biden remains a healthy, vigorous 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the presidency. Still, the public remains wary about Bidens capacity to do his job. A majority  57 per cent  of voters in last years midterm elections said they did not think Biden has the mental capability to serve effectively as president, according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the 2022 electorate. Forty-one per cent of voters said Biden did. Loading About nine in 10 Republicans, along with about two in 10 Democrats, said they thought Biden didnt have the mental capability to serve as president. Among Democrats, though, voters under 45 were roughly twice as likely as older voters to say they thought Biden didnt have the mental capability, 27 per cent v 13 per cent. An April poll by The Associated Press-NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research showed a notable chasm between the percentage of Democrats who approve of Bidens job performance  78 per cent  and those who wanted him to run again, which was at just 47 per cent. Interviews with poll respondents suggested that the gulf was due in big part to his age.

Bidens aides have long dismissed such concerns. To counter the age questions, his reelection campaign is likely to stress his accomplishments to highlight his fitness to do the job, while underscoring the with-age-comes-experience argument that Biden himself likes to make. Part of President Bidens argument for reelection is that he has decades of experience, said Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat. Loading I think if he can balance the occasional self-deprecating joke with showing the kind of agility, engagement, casual approach to this issue that he did at the correspondents dinner, that he did in the State of the Union, that he has in meetings with small groups of senators in public and in private, I think thats an asset. In a new MSNBC interview last week, Biden again dismissed concerns about his age, saying, I have acquired a hell of a lot of wisdom and know more than the vast majority of people.

Bidens advisers also note that his age surfaced as an issue in the 2020 campaign and did not derail his path to the White House. Some of his more nominal challengers in that years Democratic presidential primary, such as former Housing and Urban Development secretary Julian Castro and former Ohio congressman Tim Ryan, made veiled references to Bidens age and mental acuity, but that did not gain traction among other candidates. (One of them, independent Senator Bernie Sanders, is older than Biden.) Biden has conceded in the past that his age is a legitimate issue for voters, and said shortly after his reelection announcement that he took a hard look at that before he formalised his decision to run for a second term. Loading If I guess how old I am, I cant even say the number. It doesnt  it doesnt register with me, he said at a news conference with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol last month. But the only thing I can say is that one of the things that people are going to find out  theyre going to see a race, and theyre going to judge whether or not I have it or dont have it.
SIMPSON BAY:--- On Saturday, the Airports Management, together with the labor union WICSU, reviewed the action plan to combat the warm temperatures in some areas of the airport building. Complaints from passengers, employees, and key stakeholders, including Immigration and Customs officers, had reached high levels. The Technical - and Project Teams of the airport explained the cause of the higher-than-usual temperatures in the building, following which they presented their plan to remedy the situation and next steps to various stakeholders.

Four new cooling units will be installed in key areas of the arrival hall to provide additional cooling to the building. This work will start this evening and is expected to be completed by Wednesday. The installation of the additional units will alleviate the situation caused by the heat wave currently affecting the island, and the southern winds, which cause cooled air to escape through entrance doors and vents at an unexpectedly high rate.

The Managing Board thanks all airport staff, WICSU, and stakeholders for their understanding and extends a special thanks to the Technical- and Project Teams for their immediate response in tackling this problem.
Introduction-Apostle Dr. Orlando Wilson (President)

St. Peters:--- On Saturday, May 6, 2023, the St. Martin United Ministerial Foundation (SMUMF) observed it 18th anniversary as the umbrella organization for evangelical, apostolic, and independent Churches on the Dutch Side of the Island.

We have only come this far by faith. Our 18th year represents a greater level of maturity. For this, we salute the hardworking and visionary former and current board members, as well as our volunteers and affiliates who continue to work with us on the national agenda. Much of the work we do has been in the background, but SMUMF is coming forward now. We do not engage in a lot of congregational activity but are set aside to represent the Kingdom of God in the national agenda. Affiliation with SMUMF is strictly voluntary.

Our objectives are:

Spiritual Governance and National Oversight-There are more than 110 churches located on the Dutch Side and every year more are being registered at the Chamber of Commerce. There needs to be structure as we complement each other and not compete with each other. The Promotion of Prayer, Unity, and Fellowship at the National Level Mediation, Pastoral Reconciliation & Healing

D. Humanitarian, Crisis Support & Intervention

F. Sector Representation & Civic Engagement

In this 18th year, we will not only celebrate the goodness of God but give ourselves to prayer through our District Prayer Campaign that was launched last month. Every Last Friday for 3 months there will be a national prayer in the various districts as the faith-based community comes together. Our next equipping session will be on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the New Testament Church of God, and the next District Prayer on June 2, 2023.

SMUMF will also host a Wellness Breakfast in July and a National Award Ceremony in December.

Besides these three major activities, our various committees will also keep the public informed on our Facebook page: SMUMFSXM, and other forms of media on other relevant matters such as our Partnerships, Townhall Meetings, The National Thanksgiving Service, Member Database Upgrade and Counsel on socioeconomic and Spiritual matters.

Bumper Stickers- Apostle Leyland Sam (Vice President)

The theme for SMUMF this year is United Together for the Greater Cause!

For us, this is not just a slogan but an ideal that we are working towards. Jesus prayed for Unity among the saints in St. John Chap. 17 and many prophecies have also been released over this nation that the two sides will become One.

We believe in the Word of the Lord. Therefore, SMUMF has created two bumper stickers that are being sold for $5 each to spread the message of Unity and National Reconciliation. The wounds of division that give birth to instability in our nation need to be healed. One of way doing this is by communicating the language of peace and reconciliation in our society.

The first bumper sticker says United Together for the Greater Cause with the symbol of the Cross and the SMUMF Logo. The Second One features the Unity Flag, Treaty of Concordia Monument, and the Words: One God, One People, One Country, St. Martin, with the scriptural foundation of Acts 17:26.

The bumper stickers are limited so we are encouraging all those who identify with and are willing to run with the message of Unity, to get theirs now.

The Unity we affirm is also demonstrated by our consistent engagement and fraternity with the French Federation of Churches (FEDOC), the St. Martin Christian Council & the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

There is much to be hopeful about. This country is as gifted as ever  full of potential, with remarkable people and extraordinary heritage. Each part has a role and must do its share. So, get your Bumper Sticker, and let us Unite Together for the Greater Cause as One St. Martin.

Congratulations-Pastor Rita Edwards (Secretary)

On the occasion of last week's observance of Labour Day and International Press Freedom Day, the St. Martin United Ministerial Foundation wishes to congratulate trade unions and media workers on their continued service to the community in spite of internal and external challenges that may arise from time to time.

A free press and a resilient working class are key pillars in building a strong and robust democracy. They are among the hallmarks of good governance.

We respect and value your contributions to nation-building and appreciate you being supported in your work at all levels.

Part 4-Wholesome Families- Reverend Dr. Nolan Nanton (PR Committee)

Advocating for the promotion and protection of God's cornerstone of society, the family is a key priority in SMUMF's agenda. Therefore, next Monday, May 15, we will be joining the world in its celebration of International Day of Families, a UN observance since 1995.

The United Nations states that this annual observance reflects the importance which the international community attaches to families as basic units of society as well as its concern regarding their situation around the world.

We are happy that the UN sees and adopts the biblical position and ultimate intention of God for the family as the cornerstone of society. A truth that Genesis 1:28 expresses and which stands as a culmination of the Creation Story.

The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as well as to promote appropriate action. This Day can become a powerful mobilizing factor on behalf of families in all countries, which avail themselves of this opportunity and demonstrate support of family issues appropriate to each society.

Here at St. Maarten, we are appealing to every civic organization, to rally around families, contend for the family, host more activities that promote the family, plan agendas with consideration given to family time, and of course, pray for families. But more than just symbolism, we want to see national policies geared towards strengthening God's blueprint of the family.

To the families, we recommend that you plan family time, bond, talk with each other and make peace where necessary. Familial reconciliation and healing lead to national healing.

There are too many broken or dysfunctional family units, unsupervised minors in Carnival parades, absentee fathers, ill-prepared mothers, and morally and financially bankrupt families in St. Maarten.

In fact, the St. Maarten Anti-Poverty Platform concluded that 94% of households cannot survive monthly and live in poverty based on a household income of less of Fls.4000 or $2222.00 per month. They based their findings on the Department of Statistics Household Budget Survey 2018.

The World Food Programme, on behalf of the CARICOM Secretariat, also conducted a Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey in St. Maarten in November 2020.

The Report reads The pandemic appears to have affected the economic wellbeing of the vast majority of households in Sint Maarten. Eighty percent of respondents have experienced a job loss or a reduced income in their households, higher than the regional average (69%)

Nearly six out of ten respondents are primarily worried about job loss, followed by worries about illness (50%) and the inability to cover essential needs (47%) and food needs (33%).

Im unemployed with 4 kids to feed and rent to pay, Im stressed because I cant get another job  an anonymous female, age 31 said.

Another one remarked that, Having just one income is hard on a household. One needs to prioritize what to get and what to do without. Those out of work with no income might think of doing something that is not good to be able to live/survive.

Families are struggling to cope, to survive on St. Maarten.

SMUMF will organize a roundtable discussion focusing on the families and demographic change (which is the international theme) on Monday May 15 that will be streamed live on our Facebook page SMUMFSXM at 6:30 pm.

Part 5- The GO Movement -Apostle Norma Arrindell (Treasurer)

On Friday April 28, 2023, the GO Movement St. Maarten was launched. Caribbean and Latin American director of the GO Movement Bishop Daniel Oscar travelled to the island to host a 2-day equipping session with spiritual leaders.

The Go Movement is a joint collaborative movement of many denominations and ministries worldwide with the aim of mobilizing and training every believer to be a witness to Jesus and thus reach the world together. In the 10 years since its launch, 64 million people have found Jesus and over a billion people have been reached. Affiliation with the GO Movement opens up networking opportunities and access to multilingual evangelism resources to St. Maarten.

We have been Commissioned to Go into all of the world and make disciples of all Nations, and St. Maarten is no exception. May is observed as Global Evangelism Month or GO Month. This month should see increased activity in the areas of praying for the unsaved, serving the community and witnessing. Like the UN Decade of Development, the GO Movement also has a GO Decade which aims to reach every person with the gospel of Christ by the year 2033. We are mobilizing all people of the Christian faith to join us in the GO Movement.

6. Increased Civic Engagement-Pastor Torana Granston (PR Committee Chair)

We want to alert and sensitize members of our faith-based community and the community at large that over the next few months, we will begin to see an increase in political activity as the nation gets ready to host Parliamentary Elections.

Participation in the democratic process is your right and responsibility. On both ends of the spectrum, postulation and voting, SMUMF is encouraging increased civic engagement among its affiliates. Support those who have a proven track record (publicly and privately) of Integrity, Fairness, Justice and Righteousness Rule. Those who are willing to not only stop at the wisdom of the world but will employ and express the manifold wisdom of God. The destiny of this nation depends on it. Therefore, we are looking forward to engaging with political candidates on common interests.

The philosophical concept of separation of Church and State does not mean that people of faith should disconnect from public action. In fact, SMUMF espouses the view that though Church & State remain Distinct in their Roles, they are Inseparable. The People's Constitution of St. Maarten recognizes the guiding principles of Almighty God as the core of their values, its Preamble.

So, if we all take part in forming our values, if we base them on what is good and precious in our heritage, then our future can be better than our past. Our children and grandchildren can remember us as a generation that gave them hope and purpose.

Matthew Hawkins of the Gospel Coalition says, "When the Church remains silent, virtually all our opinions about how Christians should engage politics come from influences other than Scripture and the guidance of our church." We have become wiser. The Church is not divorced from society but adds value. We are salt and light. We are in the civil service, we pioneer educational foundations, soup kitchens, family counseling, we work in law enforcement, we are there for your births, weddings, and funerals, etc. We are involved in every sphere of national life. Therefore, we are appealing to those in the legislative and executive branches of government, do not to make decisions for us and about us, without consulting us.

And, because politics has real-world implications for Christian evangelism, missions, and preaching etc, (the implications are being seen on the French side already) Christians ought to engage in the political process by leveraging their rightful authority, advocating for laws and policies that contribute to human flourishing. After all, we are Christ's Ambassadors in earth. We have a Voice and our voice which represents the counsel of God needs to be heard on the mountains and in the rooms where decisions are being made.

Let us not only pray for those in authority but also encourage and pray for those emerging leaders, those whom God is calling to step forward in this sphere of public life to serve His interest.

7. Funding -Pastor Harold Richardson (Ass. Treasurer)

SMUMF is a non-profit foundation solely dependent on the financial donations of individuals and affiliate churches.

Much of the work that we do is heavily subsidized by our board members. To better represent the interests of the Community, we need funds and your generous contribution would be highly appreciated.

All donations can be sent to our Republic Bank Account number #970101001567 for USD and Account number 970101001568 for ANG contributions.

Those wishing to join the umbrella body St. Martin United Ministerial Foundation (SMUMF) can also do so by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

In closing, may the God and Lord of our Saviour Jesus Christ bless you with all-natural and spiritual blessing. May Grace Abound for every good work and may Peace be the portion of St. Maarten and her people.
TANAKA Precious Metals to Exhibit at PCIM Europe 2023

TOKYO, May 8, 2023  (JCN Newswire)  TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which develops the manufacturing business of TANAKA Precious Metals, and TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Kanzaki-gun, Saga Prefecture; Representative Director & CEO: Toshiya Yamamoto), is pleased to announce that it will participate in \PCIM Europe 2023,\ the industry\-s largest international trade fair dedicated to power electronics and their fields of application, to be held from Tuesday, May 9 to Thursday, May 11, 2023, in Nuremberg, Germany. TANAKA will participate in this exhibition for the first time and will exhibit power devices (power semiconductors) and power device assembly-related components on panels.

The main exhibited products will be bonding products such as \Al wires and ribbons\ and \Cu wires and ribbons,\ which are metals that electrically connect semiconductor chips and external electrodes. Additional products include \active metal brazing material/copper composite,\ which can be applied to ceramic circuit boards for power devices and heat dissipation components such as heat sinks.

In the power device field, there is a demand for higher output and higher efficiency. In addition to high heat dissipation, high heat resistance, and high bonding reliability for each component, urgent development is needed for materials that can be further miniaturized. By taking advantage of the precious metal technology it has cultivated over many years, TANAKA Precious Metals Group will continue to contribute to further technological innovation and meet a wide variety of needs in the power device and power device assembly fields, which are expected to become even more sophisticated in the future.

PCIM Europe 2023 Exhibition Outline

 Exhibition Title: PCIM (Power Conversion Intelligent Motion) Europe 2023

 Dates: May 9 (Tues.)  May 11 (Thurs.) 2023, 9:00-17:00 *German local time

 Venue: Nuremberg Messe (Nuremberg, Germany)

 Official Site: https://pcim.mesago.com/nuernberg/en.html

*Only English and German sites are available

 Exhibitor: TANAKA Kikinzoku International (Europe) GmbH (A TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. overseas office)

 Booth Number: Hall 9, 632

 Main Exhibited Products: Al wire, Al ribbon, Cu wire, Cu ribbon, active metal brazing materials, etc.

For details of each product, please refer to the following URLs.

Various Bonding Products

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/products/detail/bonding-wires/

Active Brazing Filler Metals

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/products/detail/active-brazing-for-brazing-filler-metals/

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

 Headquarters: 22F, Tokyo Building, 2-7-3 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo

 Representative: Koichiro Tanaka, Representative Director & CEO

 Founded: 1885

 Incorporated: 1918

 Capital: 500 million yen

 Employees: 2,429 (including overseas subsidiaries) (March 31, 2022)

 Sales: 389,646,820,000 yen* (FY2021)

 Main businesses: Manufacture, sales, import and export of precious metals (platinum, gold, silver, and others) and various types of industrial precious metals products.

* Due to the adoption of the Accounting Standard for Revenue Recognition from FY2021, the net amount is given for the net sales of some transactions.

TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K.

 Head office: 2303-15, Yoshida, Yoshinogari-cho, Kanzaki-gun, Saga

 Representative Director & CEO: Toshiya Yamamoto

 Established: 1961

 Capital: JPY 1,880 million

 Sales: JPY 33,161,116,000 (FY2021)

 Employees: 845 (including overseas subsidiaries) (March 31, 2022)

 Main businesses: Manufacturing of high-purity bonding wires

About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a portfolio of products to support a diversified range of business uses focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and assets. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies in Japan and around the world collaborate and cooperate on manufacturing, sales, and technology development to offer a full range of products and services. With 5,225 employees, the Group\-s consolidated net sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, were 787.7 billion yen.*

*From the current consolidated fiscal year, the amounts of sales for some transactions are indicated as net values due to the application of the Accounting Standard for Revenue Recognition.

Global industrial business website

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/

Product inquiries

TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-on-industrial-products/

Press inquiries

TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.

https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

This press release in PDF: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20230508.pdf
Volyn regional organization of Ukrainian Red Cross always ready to help people

Volyn regional organization of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) is a reliable support for different segments of the population, where people can always turn for help.

Today, Volyn regional organization of URCS consists of 17 local organizations, 52 employees, 182 volunteers and 421 members of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society.

Volyn regional organization of URCS implements a number of programs throughout the region, which are funded by public donations and cooperation agreements.

Such projects as Home care and support for the elderly, people with disabilities and their families, Mobile medical teams of the URCS funded by the German Red Cross, Psychosocial Support, Branch and Volunteer Development (BraVo), are among the programs.

Volyn regional organization of URCS provides humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons in the form of food, hygiene kits, medicines, clothing, and household items.

The organization also trains the population in first aid skills according to certified 6-12-hour training programs.

The list of services includes provision of medical and social support for patients diagnosed with tuberculosis (daily controlled treatment and provision of comprehensive psychosocial support to patients with sensitive and chemoresistant tuberculosis).

Rapid response units in the Volyn URCS are always ready to provide humanitarian assistance in case of disasters.

The URCS also reimburses the costs of paying for utilities to those who have sheltered internally displaced persons.

The search service of the Volyn regional organization of the URCS is preparing documents for the search for missing relatives for transfer to the National Committee of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society.

May 8 is the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. The organizer and co-founder of the International Red Cross Movement was Swiss public figure Jean Henry Dunant. Since its foundation in 1863, the Red Cross has grown into a powerful global movement with many organizations of international, national, regional and local scale.

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society turned 105 years old this year. We remember the eternal truths laid down in the basis of the Red Cross movement: the need for mercy, humanism and help to each other. We're close.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijan is the largest trade, investment and strategic energy partner for the EU in the South Caucasus, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius, Trend reports.

Today during our extensive meetings with my colleague minister Landsbergis we discussed political, economic and humanitarian aspects of our cooperation, as well as current situation in the region.

Regarding multilateral cooperation we had an opportunity to discuss our cooperation with the EU. The EU is the main trade partner of Azerbaijan, as 40 percent of our trade is conducted with the EU. Documents on strategic partnership with Azerbaijan were signed or accepted with nine member states of EU. Our successful cooperation with Lithuania within the twinning projects of the EU are very important in this context as well, he said.
Here are 10 exoplanets regarded as the most Earth-like alien worlds discovered to date.

Scientists have found over 4,000 exoplanets since the first such world was confirmed orbiting a sunlike star in 1995, according to NASA's Exoplanet Exploration page (opens in new tab).

More than half of these discoveries were made by NASA's Kepler space telescope, which launched in 2009 on a mission to determine how common Earth-like planets are throughout the Milky Way galaxy.

Discovering the first true "alien Earth" is a long-held dream of astronomers  and recent exoplanet discoveries have shown that small, rocky worlds like our own are abundant in the galaxy.

To qualify as potentially life-friendly, a planet must be relatively small (and therefore rocky) and orbit in the habitable or "Goldilocks" zone of its star, which is loosely defined as a location where water can exist in liquid form on a world's surface. When telescope technology improves, other factors will be considered as well, such as the planet's atmospheric composition and how active its parent star is.

While Earth 2.0 remains elusive, here are the closest known analogs to our home planet.

1. Gliese 667Cc

An artist's impression of the surface of Gliese 667Cc. (Image credit: ESO/L. Calcada)

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Gliese 667Cc lies just 22 light-years from Earth, and is at least 4.5 times as massive as Earth, according to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (opens in new tab). Gliese 667Cc completes one orbit around its host star in a mere 28 days, but that star is a red dwarf considerably cooler than the sun, so the exoplanet is thought to lie in the habitable zone.

However, Gliese 667Cc  which was discovered with the European Southern Observatory's 3.6-meter telescope in Chile  may orbit close enough in to be baked by flares from the red dwarf.

2. Kepler-22b

Kepler-22b lies 600 light-years away. It was the first Kepler planet found in the habitable zone of its parent star, but the world is considerably larger than Earth  about 2.4 times our planet's size. It's unclear if this "super-Earth" planet is rocky, liquid or gaseous.

Kepler-22b's orbit of 290 days is pretty similar to Earth's 365, Space.com previously reported. The exoplanet orbits a G-class star like our sun, but this star is smaller and colder than Earth's.

3. Kepler-69c

Artist's illustration of Kepler-69c. (Image credit: NASA Ames/JPL-Caltech/T. Pyle)

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Kepler-69c, which is about 2,700 light-years away, is about 70 percent larger than Earth. So, once again, researchers are unsure about its composition.

The planet completes one orbit every 242 days, making its position within its solar system comparable to that of Venus within ours. However, Kepler-69c's host star is about 80 percent as luminous as the sun, so the planet appears to be in the habitable zone.

4. Kepler-62f

This planet is about 40 percent larger than Earth and orbits a star much cooler than our sun, according to NASA. (opens in new tab) Its 267-day orbit, however, puts Kepler-62f squarely within the habitable zone. While Kepler-62 orbits closer to its red dwarf star than Earth does to the sun, the star produces much less light.

Kepler-62f lies about 1,200 light-years away and, due to its large size, is within the range of potentially rocky planets that may hold oceans.

5. Kepler-186f

A planet the size of Kepler-186f is likely to be rocky. (Image credit: NASA Ames/JPL-Caltech/T. Pyle)

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This planet is at most 10 percent larger than Earth, and it also appears to reside in the habitable zone of its star, though on the zone's outer edge; Kepler-186f receives just one-third of the energy from its star that Earth gets from the sun.

Kepler-186f's parent star is a red dwarf, so the alien world is not a true Earth twin. The planet lies about 500 light-years from Earth.

Related: What would it be like to live on alien planet Kepler-186f?

6. Kepler-442b

Kepler-442b is 33 percent larger than Earth and completes an orbit of its star every 112 days, according to a NASA press release (opens in new tab). The discovery of Kepler-442, situated 1,194 light-years away from Earth, was announced in 2015.

One study, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (opens in new tab) in 2021, found that this exoplanet may receive enough light to sustain a large biosphere. The researchers analyzed the likelihood of different planets being able to carry out photosynthesis. They found that Kepler-442b receives sufficient radiation from its star.

7. Kepler-452b

An artist's impression compares Kepler 452b with Earth. (Image credit: NASA/Ames/JPL-Caltech/T. Pyle)

This world, whose discovery was announced in 2015, is the first near-Earth-size planet that orbits around a star the size of the sun, according to NASA exoplanets (opens in new tab). Kepler-452b is 60 percent larger than Earth and its parent star (Kepler-452) is 10 percent larger than the sun. Kepler-452 is very similar to our sun, and the exoplanet orbits in the habitable zone.

At 1.6 times the size of Earth, Kepler-452b has a "better than even chance" of being rocky, its discoverers have said. Kepler-452b resides 1,400 light-years from Earth. It takes Kepler-452b just 20 days longer to orbit its star than Earth does.

Related: Kepler-452b: What It Would Be Like to Live On Earth's 'Cousin'

8. Kepler-1649c

When the data from NASA's Kepler Space Telescope was reanalyzed, scientists discovered Kepler 1649c. The exoplanet was found to be similar in size to Earth and orbiting in its star's habitable zone.

During the initial data collection from the telescope, a computer algorithm misidentified the astronomical body (opens in new tab), according to NASA, but in 2020 it was discovered to be a planet.

Kepler-1649c is located 300 light-years from Earth and is only 1.06 times larger than it. When comparing the light that the two planets receive from their stars, scientists found that this exoplanet receives 75 percent of the light Earth does from the sun.

9. Proxima Centauri b

Proxima Centauri b is located just four light-years away from Earth, making it Earth's closest known exoplanet, according to NASA Exoplanet Exploration. The exoplanet, which was discovered in 2016, has a mass that is 1.27 times that of Earth's.

Although the exoplanet can be found in the habitable zone of its star, Proxima Centauri, it is exposed to extreme ultraviolet radiation. This is because it lies very close to its parent star and has an orbital period of just 11.2 days.

Related: Alpha Centauri  Facts about the stars next door

10. TRAPPIST-1e

This illustration shows the TRAPPIST exoplanets nearest their star. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)

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Orbiting the star TRAPPIST-1 are the most Earth-sized planets ever discovered in the habitable zone of a single star. This planetary system is made up of seven worlds.

Water on most of these planets is likely to have evaporated early in the system's formation, Space.com previously reported. However, a 2018 study found that some of these planets could hold more water than Earth's oceans. One of the worlds, called TRAPPIST-1e, is thought to be the most likely to support life as we know it.

Additional resources

For the latest research and exoplanet discoveries, head to NASA's Exoplanet Exploration page (opens in new tab). If you want a closer look at Proxima Centauri b and other exoplanets, 3D models are available on NASA's website (opens in new tab).

Bibliography

"Efficiency of the oxygenic photosynthesis on Earth-like planets in the habitable zone". Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Volume 505, Issue 3 (2021). https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/505/3/3329/6278213?searchresult=1 (opens in new tab)

"The nature of the TRAPPIST-1 exoplanets". Astronomy and Astrophysics (2018). https://www.aanda.org/component/article (opens in new tab)

"Kepler Planet-Detection Mission: Introduction and First Results". Science (2010). https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.1185402 (opens in new tab)
Our 2023 guide tells you the best times of the year to view different planets.

Want to know the best times of the year to see planets in 2023?

Our handy guide is here to help. It will also provide information about when a particular planet might be passing close to another, or a bright star, as well as the constellation that each will occupy during the course of the year. And you'll learn about the various circumstances  conjunctions, oppositions, and elongations  that are on this upcoming year's schedule.

Be sure to check out our best telescopes for viewing planets guide and our more general guides for the best binoculars and the best telescopes. If you're interested in snapping some impressive skywatching images, we have recommendations for the best cameras for astrophotography and the best lenses for astrophotography.

Related: What you can see in the night sky this month (maps)

Mercury

In our solar system, Mercury is the closest planet to the sun. Pictured is Mercury as seen by NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft. (Image credit: NASA/Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory/Carnegie )

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Top telescope pick! (Image credit: Celestron) Looking for a telescope for the next night sky event? We recommend the Celestron Astro Fi 102 (opens in new tab) as the top pick in our best beginner's telescope guide.

As an evening star, Mercury appears in the western sky, setting about an hour after the sun. As a morning star, it appears in the eastern sky, rising about an hour before the sun. There must be a clear, unobstructed horizon on these occasions. Mercury usually appears as a bright "star" with a yellow tinge.

Mercury will be visible from Jan. 23 to Feb. 13. Evenings, from April 2 to 18. Mornings, from May 22 to June 12. Evenings, from July 27 to Aug. 17. Mornings, from Sept. 16 to 30. Evenings, from Nov. 20 to Dec. 11. Mercury will be brightest and easiest to spot in the evening sky from April 2 to 18, and brightest and easiest to spot in the morning sky from Sept. 16 to 30.

Venus

An image of Venus captured by NASA's Mariner 10 spacecraft. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)

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Venus is always brilliant and shining with a steady, silvery light. Evenings in the western sky at dusk from Jan. 1 to Aug. 4. Mornings in the eastern sky at dawn from Aug. 22 to Dec. 31.

Venus will attain its greatest brilliancy in the evening sky on July 7 and in the morning sky on Sept. 19. From the end of June, on into the opening days of August in the evening sky, and from the last week of August through the final days of September, Venus will resemble a striking crescent phase in telescopes and steadily-held binoculars.

Venus and Saturn will appear dramatically close, less than 0.4-degree to each other on the evening of Jan. 22. Venus and Jupiter will appear strikingly close to each other  a little over a half-degree apart  on the evening of March 1.

Mars

The Hubble Space Telescope captured this crystal-clear view of Mars and its two moons Phobos and Deimos. (Image credit: NASA/ESA/STScI)

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Shining like a "star" with a yellow-orange hue, Mars can vary considerably in brightness.

This will be an "off" year for the Red Planet, coming off of a dazzling Mars opposition on Dec. 8 in 2022. It will spend all of 2023 getting progressively dimmer as it recedes from the vicinity of the Earth. On New Year's Day it is still very radiant, shining at a brilliant magnitude of -1.2 in the constellation Taurus, the Bull, and is visible virtually the entire night.

In the days that follow, however, Mars will gradually fade from prominence. By Valentine's Day (Feb. 14), still in Taurus, it will shine with only one-third the luster it had just six weeks earlier. Come April Fool's Day (April 1), now in Gemini the Twins, it will have diminished to first magnitude and by Memorial Day, having moved into the faintest of the zodiacal constellations, Cancer the Crab, it will have fallen to the rank of a second magnitude star.

From then on, it continues to diminish, passing near to Venus on July 1, then very close to the bluish star Regulus in Leo (making for a nice color contrast) on July 10, then dawdling in the evening sky through the balance of the summer, and finally vanishing into the sunset fires on Oct. 1 at a distance of 236 million miles (380 million km) from Earth.

It will not come back into view again until the second week of January 2024, low in the east-southeast sky before sunrise. During the overnight hours of Jan. 30-31, 2024, a waxing gibbous moon will appear to slide just below Mars.

Related: Full moon calendar: When to see the next full moon

Jupiter

Jupiter as seen by NASAs Hubble Space Telescope on April 3, 2017, four days before the planet arrived at opposition. (Image credit: NASA GSFC)

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Quite brilliant with a silver-white luster, Jupiter starts the year in the constellation Pisces, the Fishes, crosses over into the non-zodiacal constellation Cetus, the Whale on Feb. 5, moves back into Pisces on Feb. 18, then crosses over into Aries, the Ram on May 19 where it will remain for the balance of the year. Evenings from Jan. 1 to March 22; mornings from May 3 to Nov. 2; evenings again from Nov. 3 to December 31.

Jupiter is at its brightest in 2023 from Oct. 11 to Nov. 23. Jupiter is at opposition to the Sun on Nov. 3. Jupiter and Venus will appear side-by-side at dusk in the west-southwest sky on March 1; an eye-catching sight. Although Jupiter will glow with a lustrous magnitude of -2.1, Venus manages to outshine it by nearly two magnitudes and appears more than six times brighter.

Saturn

The rings of Saturn and four of its moons take center stage in this portrait by the Hubble Space Telescope's Wide Field Camera 3, taken on June 20, 2019. (Image credit: NASA/ESA/A. Simon/M.H. Wong)

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Saturn shines like a yellowish-white "star" of moderate brightness. The famous rings are visible only in a telescope. They were at their maximum tilt toward Earth in October 2017 and are now closing to our line of sight They will turn edge-on to the Earth during the spring of 2025.

Saturn starts 2023 within the boundaries of the constellation Capricornus the Sea Goat, crossing over into the constellation Aquarius the Water Carrier, on Feb. 13 where it remains for the rest of the year. It appears on evenings from Jan. 1 to Jan. 30; mornings from March 6 to Aug. 26; then evenings again from Aug. 27 to Dec. 31.

Saturn is brightest in 2023 from Aug. 18 to Sept. 11. Saturn is at opposition to the Sun on Aug. 27. Saturn and Venus will appear very close to each other on the evening of Jan. 22.

Uranus

NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft captured this image of the planet Uranus on Dec. 18, 1986. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)

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Uranus can be glimpsed as a naked-eye object by people who are blessed with good eyesight and a clear, dark sky, as well as a forehand knowledge of exactly where to look for it. At its brightest, Uranus shines at magnitude +5.6 and can be readily identified with good binoculars. A small telescope may reveal its tiny, greenish disk. Uranus spends all of 2023 in the constellation of Aries the Ram.

In 2023, Uranus is visible in evenings from Jan. 1 to April 23; mornings from May 27 to Nov. 12; evenings again from November 13 to December 31.

Uranus will be brightest in 2023 from Oct. 11 to Dec. 17. Uranus will arrive at opposition to the Sun on Nov. 13.

Neptune

A photo of Neptune taken by NASA's Voyager 2 spacecraft. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech)

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Neptune starts 2023 in the constellation of Aquarius, the Water Carrier, but crosses over into Pisces the Fishes on March 4 where it will remain for the rest of the year.

At a peak magnitude of +7.8, this bluish-hued world is only visible with good binoculars or a telescope. It is visible in evenings from Jan. 1 through Feb. 28; mornings from April 1 through Sept. 18; evenings again from Sept. 19 to Dec. 31.

Neptune is brightest in 2023 from July 21 to Nov. 17. Opposition is on September 19.

Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's Hayden Planetarium (opens in new tab). He writes about astronomy for Natural History magazine (opens in new tab), the Farmers' Almanac (opens in new tab) and other publications. Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom (opens in new tab) and on Facebook (opens in new tab).
New Indonesian fund promotes Indigenous role in climate change fight



Jakarta, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2023



Indonesian civil groups launched on Monday a multimillion-dollar fund aimed at empowering Indigenous and local communities across the Southeast Asian country in the fight against climate change.

The Nusantara Fund -- the first direct funding mechanism for indigenous and local communities in the country -- was launched by the environmental group Walhi, the Consortium for Agrarian Reform (KPA) and Indigenous people's NGO AMAN.

It received $3 million in initial support from international philanthropic organisations such as the Ford Foundation and Packard Foundation.

It is part of a $1.7 billion Forest Tenure Pledge that was first announced at COP26 in Glasgow, which recognised the important role of Indigenous and local communities in protecting tropical forests and their contribution to mitigate climate change.

Indonesia, home to the world's third-largest rainforest area, claims to have made some progress by reducing the rate of primary forest loss for five straight years up to 2021, but total forest cover keeps receding.

A study by Rainforest Foundation Norway found that Indigenous communities received about $2.7 billion of climate funds in forest management between 2011 and 2020 from donors and philanthropies, equivalent to less than 1 percent of official development assistance for climate change mitigation and adaptation over the same period.

The Nusantara Fund was launched to help correct such an imbalance in climate fund distribution, said Ford Foundation president Darren Walker.

"This fund has been designed in part to respond to that imbalance and to demonstrate the efficacy of the idea that when you provide resources to local communities, you are more likely to have the impacts that we need to address the climate challenge," Walker told AFP Monday.

The fund seeks to address the needs of the communities in a bottom-up approach, looking to them to identify challenges that they face and solutions, said WALHI director Zenzi Suhadi.

"We create the mechanism of the Nusantara Fund directly to the local community and indigenous people," said Suhadi.

AMAN secretary-general Rukka Sombolinggi added that villagers "know best" the challenges they face and how they want to tackle them.

The founders of the fund seek to attract up to $20 million in investment in the next 10 years to help map more than 20 million hectares of Indigenous territories, and increase the protection and registration of 7.8 million hectares on top of the recognised land, among other targets.
'No time to waste' on AI law, says EU's Vestager



Berlin, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2023



The European Union needs to speed up work on artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, Commission vice president Margrethe Vestager said Monday, as policymakers wrestle with the risks from the emergent technology.

"There is no time to waste" on passing rules to control the use of AI, Vestager told reporters in Berlin.

The European Commission put forward regulatory proposals in early 2021, but progress on the legislation has been slow.

EU member states set out their views on the Commission's ideas at the end of 2022, while MEPs will put the matter to an initial vote in committee in Strasbourg on Thursday.

The Parliament's opinion should be confirmed in a plenary vote in June, before negotiations between the EU's institutions begin in earnest.

"What I think is important is speed. We really need our legislation to get in place," Vestager said.

"I really hope that we can have the first meeting of the political negotiation before summer so that we can end it this year."

The arrival of new AI tools such as ChatGPT has reinvigorated the debate over regulation and spurred a response from governments.

ChatGPT can generate essays, poems and conversations from the briefest of prompts, and has proved itself capable of passing some tough exams.

But it has been dogged by concerns that its abilities could lead to widespread cheating in schools or supercharge disinformation on the web.

The chatbot can only function if it is trained on vast datasets, raising concerns about where its maker OpenAI gets its data and how that information is handled.

Italy temporarily banned the programme in March over allegations its data-gathering broke privacy laws, while French and German regulators have opened their own probes.

"When it comes to artificial intelligence like ChatGPT it will also be caught by the (EU's) AI Act," Vestager said.

The proposed legislation is "future proof" because it targets the uses of AI, not the specific technologies behind it, Vestager said.

The EU's draft rules outlaw certain uses such as "generalised surveillance", while companies must authorise themselves for other "high-risk" uses, such as facial recognition.
Western Canada seeks urgent help to fight wildfires



Drayton Valley, Canada, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2023



Canada struggled on Monday to control wildfires that have forced thousands to flee, halted oil production and threaten to raze towns, with the western province of Alberta calling for federal help.

Some 30,000 people were ordered to leave their homes over the past three days, as more than 100 fires flared across the province -- including 29 currently out of control.

Federal disaster officials and the military were on standby, as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith was scheduled to speak by telephone with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally ask for assiatance.

"We know that potentially there's some military supports that they can offer. We're going to see if they have any firefighting expertise. We'll see if they have any engineering support," Smith said late Sunday.

Firefighters have prioritized dousing flames threatening homes and businesses. Many roads near the provincial capital Edmonton were blocked off as temporary shelters welcomed evacuees.

Oil firms -- including Vermilion Energy and Crescent Point Energy -- announced temporary shutdowns of operations, slashing production by more than 125,000 barrels of oil per day.

Many residents and oil workers rode to safety in motorhomes or with campers in tow, and set up in empty parking lots.

Some are staying with friends or family, like Jerry Greiner, a resident from Dayton Valley, west of Edmonton.

"We could see the smoke on Friday and there was a pretty strong wind," the 55-year-old told AFP, his eyes tearing up as he recounted receiving the order to evacuate that night.

"We quickly grabbed our bags (and went) to our friends' house. About 12 people stayed there," he said. This marked the first time he has ever had to flee wildfires.

Dayton Valley, a small town of 7,000 was completely abandoned. Trees and grass fields all around were blackened by the fires, and smoke billowed from a few charred buildings, but most of the homes appeared intact, observed an AFP reporter.

It was not clear when residents would be permitted to return.



- 'Very scary, so surreal' -



"It's very scary and so surreal," said evacuee Dorothy Denis. "Every time there's an alert, you're scared to look (at your phone) as they might say it's your town that's on fire."

In the northern community of Fox Lake, a fire destroyed 20 homes, a store and a police station. Residents had to be evacuated by boat and helicopter.

The Alberta premier declared a state of emergency on Saturday, calling the wildfire situation "unprecedented."

The province -- one of the world's largest oil-producing regions -- "has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," she said.

Almost all of Alberta as well as much of neighboring Saskatchewan province, parts of British Columbia and a large swath of the Northwest Territories face extreme fire risks due to abnormally dry conditions and severe droughts.

Two out-of-control wildfires in westernmost British Columbia have also forced residents to evacuate, and authorities have warned they expect strong winds to swell those blazes.

In recent years, western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, the intensity and frequency of which have increased due to global warming.

Forest fires in Canada's oil sands region in 2016 disrupted production and forced out 100,000 residents from Fort McMurray, pummelling the nation's economy.

More recently in 2021, British Columbia suffered record-high temperatures over the summer that killed more than 500 people, as well as wildfires that destroyed an entire town.

That was followed by devastating floods and mudslides.

Authorities were hopeful on Monday that rain and cooler temperatures would bring some relief to Alberta, notably in the south.
Musk says inactive Twitter accounts being purged



San Francisco, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2023



Elon Musk on Monday announced that Twitter is canceling accounts that haven't been used for a long time.

The move comes as Musk tries to ramp up engagement, and opportunities to make money, at the online platform he bought for $44 billion last year.

"We're purging accounts that have had no activity at all for several years, so you will probably see follower count drop," Musk said in a tweet.

Musk-mandated changes at Twitter from slashing staff to doing away with free verification check marks seen as stamps of authenticity have alienated users and advertisers.

Twitter's blue ticks were reinstated on some media, celebrity, and other high profile accounts late in April -- a move protested by many of the recipients.

Musk tweeted at the time that he was "paying for a few (subscriptions) personally."

Many official media accounts regained a tick, including AFP, which has not subscribed to Twitter Blue.

The reinstated ticks did not lure back US public radio NPR, which in mid-April suspended activity on its accounts.

The broadcaster was among those to protest the "state-affiliated" and "government-funded" labels Twitter attached to them, which were previously reserved for non-independent media funded by autocratic governments.

Since Musk bought Twitter, the company has relaxed the moderation of content on the network, letting back many users banned because of messages inciting hatred or spreading misinformation.

Market trackers say Twitter revenues have fallen as advertisers avoid the platform.
Western Canada seeks urgent help to fight wildfires



Drayton Valley, Canada, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2023



Canada struggled on Monday to control wildfires that have forced thousands to flee, halted oil production and razed towns, with the western province of Alberta calling for federal help.

Some 30,000 people were ordered to leave their homes over the past three days, as nearly 100 fires flared across the province -- including 29 out of control.

Federal disaster officials and the military were on standby, after the head of the western province of Alberta Danielle Smith spoke with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to formally ask for assistance.

"Canadians stand with the people of Alberta as they deal with these terrible, terrible wildfires," Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa.

"We were watching images from the communities affected by these wildfires and I assured Danielle that we will be there to help," he said.

Details of what supports would be made available were not immediately released.

In Alberta, firefighters prioritized dousing flames threatening homes and businesses. Many roads near the provincial capital Edmonton were blocked off as temporary shelters welcomed evacuees.

Oil firms -- including Vermilion Energy and Crescent Point Energy -- announced temporary shutdowns of operations, slashing production by more than 125,000 barrels of oil per day.

Many residents and oil workers rode to safety in motorhomes or with campers in tow, and set up in empty parking lots.

Others are staying with friends or family, like Jerry Greiner, a resident from Dayton Valley, west of Edmonton, the capital of Alberta.

"We could see the smoke on Friday and there was a pretty strong wind," the 55-year-old told AFP, his eyes tearing up as he recounted receiving the order to evacuate that night.

"We quickly grabbed our bags (and went) to our friends' house. About 12 people stayed there," he said. This marked the first time he has ever had to flee wildfires.

Dayton Valley, a small town of 7,000, was completely abandoned. Trees and grass fields all around were blackened by the fires, and smoke billowed from a few charred buildings, but most of the homes appeared intact, observed an AFP reporter.



- 'Scary and surreal' -



It was not clear when residents would be permitted to return.

Resident Randy Braun, 57, said the fire chief told locals it would be "at least a week minimum."

Kathy Bereuwski, 61, escaped with her family and dogs. "The sky," she told AFP, "was pitch black" with smoke and falling ash.

"It's very scary and so surreal," said evacuee Dorothy Denis. "Every time there's an alert, you're scared to look (at your phone) as they might say it's your town that's on fire."

"The past few days have been very crappy," echoed Kathy, another evacuee, who declined to give her last name. "It's just been very stressful."

In the northern community of Fox Lake, a fire destroyed 20 homes, a store and a police station. Residents had to be evacuated by boat and helicopter.

The Alberta premier declared a state of emergency on Saturday, calling the wildfire situation "unprecedented."

The province -- one of the world's largest oil-producing regions -- "has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," she said.

Almost all of Alberta as well as much of neighboring Saskatchewan province, parts of British Columbia and a large swath of the Northwest Territories face extreme fire risks.

Two out-of-control wildfires in westernmost British Columbia have also forced residents to evacuate, and authorities have warned they expect strong winds to swell those blazes.

In recent years, western Canada has been hit repeatedly by extreme weather, the intensity and frequency of which have increased due to global warming.

Forest fires in Canada's oil sands region in 2016 disrupted production and forced out 100,000 residents from Fort McMurray, pummelling the nation's economy.

More recently in 2021, British Columbia suffered record-high temperatures over the summer that killed more than 500 people, as well as wildfires that destroyed an entire town.

That was followed by devastating floods and mudslides.

Authorities were hopeful on Monday that rain and cooler temperatures would bring some relief to Alberta.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijan has invited Lithuanian companies to benefit from advantages of the Middle Corridor, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius, Trend reports.

Today we also explored ways to deepen economic, transit and transport cooperation, which has an extensive potential. Id like to note that the relevance of transport routes passing through Azerbaijan has increased even more against the backdrop of the situation in the boarder region. In 2022 the transit flow through Azerbaijan has increased by about 75 percent. This transit volume is expected to increase by 5-8 million tons per year after the opening of the Zangazur corridor. in this regard, we invited Lithuanian transit operators and logistics companies to benefit from the advantages created by the Middle Corridor.

Azerbaijan is currently working to attract more investments, technology and innovations and intellectual work. We invite Lithuanian companies and investors to use the favorable conditions created in the Alat Free Economic Zone and industrial parks in our country. Many economic concessions are offered to establish production in these zones, he said.
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Wells Fargo, one of the countrys largest banks, is planning to close this summer two branches in Connecticut.

The San Francisco-headquartered company has filed notices of intent to shutter its branches at 108 Mill Plain Road in Danbury and 950 Post Road in Darien, according to the federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. In response to an inquiry from Hearst Connecticut Media, the bank confirmed the closings.

Wells Fargo made the difficult decision to close our Danbury Mill Plain and Darien bank branches on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 12 p.m., Jacqueline Hlavenka-Sansone, a Wells Fargo spokesperson, said in an email. We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause, and customers can continue to bank with us at our other nearby locations, including our Danbury North Street Shopping Center branch on Padanaram Road, approximately 3.45 miles away, or our Norwalk Post Road branch, approximately a mile-and-a-half away, as well as our Darien Noroton Heights branch at 310 Heights Road, approximately 1.6 miles away.



Despite those two branch closings, Wells Fargo will maintain a large presence in Connecticut. Across the state, Wells Fargo has 62 branches and more than 1,100 employees.

Branches continue to play an important role in the way we serve our customers, and we continuously evaluate our branch network in light of changing customer needs, the increase in the use of digital banking, market factors and economic trends, Hlavenka-Sansone said. We continually evaluate our branch network and make adjustments based on changing customer needs, market factors and economic trends.

Wells Fargo declined to specify how many employees would be affected by the branch closings, but Hlavenka-Sansone said that, at this time, we are reviewing staffing needs and will determine new location assignments for employees at nearby branches.

While Wells Fargo and other banks are reducing their brick-and-mortar presence in Connecticut  a trend driven in large part by the rise of online banking  some are expanding. By the end of this year, JPMorgan Chase will have opened 20 Chase bank branches since 2019. This year, Chase branches have opened in East Hartford, Hartford and Storrs, with another location set to open soon in Vernon.

Among the more than 50 banks operating in Connecticut, there were 1,011 offices across the state, as of June 30, 2022, compared with 1,059 at the same point in 2021, according to data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

Nationwide, Wells Fargo has played a leading role in responding to the industry turmoil unleashed by the collapse in March of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. The bank was one of several that cumulatively directed $30 billion in deposits to the troubled First Republic Bank.

Those reinforcements could not prevent, however, the collapse of First Republic, marking the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history. At the beginning of this month, regulators seized First Republic and sold all of its deposits and most of its assets to JPMorgan Chase.

But Wells Fargos own finances still appear sound, given that it beat sales and profit targets in the past quarter, as it recorded an approximately $5 billion profit.

As of last June, Wells Fargo had about $9.8 billion in deposits in Connecticut, ranking No. 5 among banks operating in the state, after Bank of America; Stamford-headquartered Webster Bank; M&T Bank, which last year acquired Bridgeport-based Peoples United Bank; and JPMorgan Chase.

Nationwide, Wells Fargos consolidated assets totaled about $1.7 trillion, ranking No. 4 after Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and Citibank, as of Dec. 31, 2022, according to Federal Reserve data.
BLOOMFIELD  Some want to be nurses. Some want to be doctors. Others want to be social workers. Two are very set on anesthesiology.

A group of students from Bloomfield High School interested in pursuing careers in health care after graduation are participating in a partnership with Connecticut Children's in hopes of getting a taste of the career they want.

"I really want to work in psychology or social work because of things that I have been through in my past," said Bloomfield High School senior Jacquelyn Watkins. "I really want to be an at-home social worker."

Watkins and eight of her peers have been spending time in the classroom with health care professionals from Connecticut Children's but on Friday morning, the students took the trip to Hartford to spend a morning with a mentor and experience the jobs firsthand.

The connection between Bloomfield High School and Connecticut Children's is unique to Bloomfield because of a friendship between Bloomfield Superintendent James Thompson and a physician's assistant, Garry Lapidus. The newly hired school-to-career specialist, Destiny Davis, took the reigns of the program.

"It was sort of perfect match because they needed someone to manage the logistics of the program, and that's written in my job description, so we were married," Davis said.

Davis, a Bloomfield High School graduate herself, said she hopes she can provide students with opportunities she wishes she had.

"I try to fill in the gaps that I felt I had when I was a high school student," Davis said. "I try to be to them what I wish someone was to me."

Friday morning's shadow opportunity marked the capstone of an ongoing relationship between the hospital and the high school. There were career panels and hands-on activities in the classroom throughout the semester and the summer.

"They get hands-on experience extracting gels, running DNA followed by the career panelists, which included health care, business and management and STEM in which individuals from those disciplines from Connecticut Children's came to Bloomfield High School," said Carolyn Macica, director of research operations and development at Connecticut Children's. "They talked a lot about their careers and their career paths, how they got to where they are, what they love about the jobs, what they had to do to get to that position."

Students shadowed registered nurses, respiratory therapists, physician's assistants and other medical professionals for two hours Friday morning. The professionals volunteered to be mentors on a survey circulated by Danielle Chenard, senior research program manager.

Davis said that while not every school district has this partnership with Connecticut Children's, to her, it makes sense Bloomfield students are a good fit for it.

"Our students have a certain level of drive," Davis said. "They are eager to learn. They are eager to come and get their toe in the water. And I can work with that. If you want it, I can pair it and make it happen. They do the rest on their own."
Screen and stage star Audra McDonald will be showcasing her award-winning pipes when she returns to New Haven to perform at Long Wharf Theatres annual benefit concert.

No stranger to Broadway devotees, actress McDonald has been something of a wunderkind on stage, winning her first Tony Award as Carrie Snow in a Carousel revival in 1994.

Ten years later, she won five more Tonys and was the first person to snag an award in all four acting categories. Among her Tony-winning roles are the young opera student, Sharon, in Master Class, Sarah in Ragtime, Ruth Younger in A Raisin in the Sun and Bessin Porgy and Bess and her sixth win was as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emersons Bar and Grill.

Besides charming theatergoers with her operatic soprano and her acting chops, she has also appeared extensively on television, including The Gilded Age and The Good Fight, the latter earned her a Gracie award from the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation in March. Her film career includes roles in "Ricki and the Flash," "Beauty and the Beast" and "Respect."

Allison Michael Orenstein/Contributed photo

McDonald also has sung in notable venues like Carnegie Hall and performed concerts around the country. She has a busy schedule in May, but of key interest to Connecticut audiences will be her performance, Audra McDonald: A Concert for Long Wharf Theatre, on May 15 at the John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts at Southern Connecticut State University.

Jacob G. Padron, the theaters artistic director, described McDonald as a trailblazing, transformational actor not just for her body of work in American theater but also in film and television spaces. Equally of note, he said, is how McDonald uses her voice to bring attention to causes important to her.

When we talk about artists that are also using their platform to amplify important issues, she believes in the power of theater and also believes in supporting artists of color, which again is a huge part of the work shes doing for Black Theatre United. I really look up to her; she is an inspiration to so many of us that we can dream big and dream often.

Peter Hvizdak/Hearst Connecticut Media

In 2015, former president Barack Obama awarded McDonald with a National Medal of Arts award and she has received nine nominations for NAACP Image Awards. Among the causes she champions are equal rights, LGBTQAI+ and at-risk youth.

McDonald headlined the theaters gala in 2015, celebrating its 50th anniversary, and Padron believes she is the only artist they have invited back for a repeat performance.

I think its also worth noting that Long Wharf Theatre has kind of a wonderful track record of attracting really amazing talent for our gala. Weve had Kelli OHara, Alan Cumming, Leslie Odom Jr., Laura Benanti and to now have Audra return a second time is really special for our audiences, he said.

Allison Michael Orenstein/ Contributed photo

Padron said they highlighted the theaters work and its community partnerships when they reached out to invite McDonald to perform at the benefit.

We have this new modeland are trying to amplify the voices of all people, he said, adding that given McDonalds activism, There is alignment between what she is doing in her circles and the work that the Long Wharf Theatre is also trying to manifest.

I have long admired Long Wharf Theatre and their bold conviction to build a new, inspired vision for regional theaters across the country, McDonald said in the theaters press release announcing the concert. Long Wharfs leadership has done the tough work of thinking outside of the box and reimagining whats possible for artists and audiences alike. I am so eager to return to New Haven and share this moment with the Long Wharf community at such an important stage in their history.

Audiences can expect a sampling of songs from the Broadway shows she has performed in as well as favorite songs of hers.

With someone like Audra McDonald, I think whatever she chooses to do it will be spellbinding, special and wonderful, he said. I think its just going to be a really wonderful concert. Audiences also can expect us to share a little bit more about the future for Long Wharf. We are going to give a sneak peek about next season, some of the shows we plan to do and also we want to have a moment where we can celebrate the next generation of theater makers.

More information, visit longwharf.org.
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STAMFORD  Over the years, as tall residential buildings and a parking garage rose up to dwarf the old diner facing Columbus Park, one neighboring patch of asphalt remained untouched.

On multiple occasions, Stamford officials made plans to redevelop the 0 West Park Place parcel next to Curley's Diner. But none of them materialized, leaving the city-owned property as a de facto parking lot fitting about 34 cars for nearby businesses.

An early-stage proposal being discussed with the Stamford Zoning Board would change that in a big way.

Wellbuilt Company, a developer headquartered in Greenwich with two projects already in Stamford, has filed a pre-application with the Land Use Bureau to explore building an extended stay hotel on the property. Preliminary designs include a 10-story building with 95 rooms and ground-floor space reserved for retail or a restaurant.

Amenities would be located on the second floor, as well as on an open-air rooftop deck. The design would also preserve an existing shortcut connecting the property to Columbus Park-area businesses.

Parking would be off-site in the Bell Street garage. According to the pre-application, the concept is common for urban hotels and it was reviewed favorably by the city's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Department.

Wellbuilt Company

An extended stay hotel would serve a variety of customers in and around Stamford's downtown, Wellbuilt Company co-founder Mitch Kidd said. As examples, he listed travel nurses, parents of University of Connecticut-Stamford students and people moving to Stamford looking for an in-between place to stay.

"There's just a high demand for it, and (it's) ever growing," Kidd said.

The developer has yet to submit a formal Zoning Board application, opting instead to file a pre-application. The process has "not historically been utilized," said Lisa Feinberg, the attorney representing Wellbuilt Company. But it allows the developer to explore the feasibility of a project without committing extensive funds to the process, she said.

Feinberg said the pre-application process is especially useful with the proposed site because of its size  just under 12,000 square feet with existing businesses on both sides.

"There are challenges, so being able to get that feedback without investing in civil engineering and full architectural drawings and all of the soft costs that go into processing an application  paying for me, paying for all of the consultants to sit at the Zoning Board and the (Urban Redevelopment Commission)  then, it's certainly worthwhile to do that," Feinberg said.

Acquired by the city in 1966, the parcel was one of the plots designated by officials for Stamford's urban renewal era. As a result, the Urban Redevelopment Commission was given authority to "acquire, manage, demolish and dispose of designated parcels," according to a 2021 URC memorandum.

A contract is in place to transfer the property from the URC to Wellbuilt Company, Feinberg said. In order for the deal to close, though, the developer must secure zoning approval for the project.

It marks the third time in the past three decades that the URC has moved to develop the property.

In 1997, the URC authorized a developer to seize properties on the block to build multiple high-rises. One of those properties was Curley's Diner, a downtown fixture since 1941.

But the diner's co-owners, Maria Aposporos and her sister Eleni Anastos, blocked the city's condemnation attempt in a 2002 landmark state Supreme Court case. In 2006, a revised agreement aimed to build around Curley's, but it was also stopped by continuing litigation and the 2008 financial crisis.

Eventually, in 2012, development firm Trinity Financial stepped in to take over the project. Under the firm's direction, two residential buildings in the area were built  66 Summer and Vela on the Park.

Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media

At the diner on Wednesday, Aposporos looked over a preliminary rendering of the proposed hotel. The blue-ink sketching shows the hotel standing high over the diner  the two buildings separated by a drop-off lane and loading dock.

It's too tall, she said. Nonetheless, Aposporos said the hotel is "a good idea." She said it could be good for business at the diner.

She said she hopes the project has a first-floor bathroom, as people at Mill River Park frequently ask to use hers. She also said she hopes the building is properly soundproofed, so hotel guests can fall asleep when nearby bars and restaurants play music late at nights.

"Me, I don't care what they put there. I just don't want (patrons) to bother the police all the time because the police are very busy," Aposporos said.

Aposporos said she's open to having new neighbors, but she wants to be treated fairly. She said when another urban renewal building, 66 Summer, was under construction, crews used her building's water supply without paying her back.

"I said, 'I don't want to make money from you guys. We will call the water company, how much I paid last year, and you pay the extra.' And then they left (without) paying," she said.

Trinity Financial, the developer of 66 Summer, did not respond to an immediate request for comment. In 2017, the company sold the 200-unit building to an out-of-state company for $67.5 million.

Owners of Acuario, a Peruvian restaurant that would be the hotel's other nextdoor neighbor, did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.
At least eight people, including three motorcyclists, were killed and several others were hurt in a series of crashes over the weekend in Connecticut.

The victims included a 22-year-old New Britain man and the head of a Vernon homeless shelter. As of Monday afternoon, police had not yet released the identities of everyone who died in the weekend crashes.

The string of fatal incidents began around 2:10 a.m. Saturday morning after a car went off the road in Newtown, leaving a passenger dead.

Newtown police said a Chevrolet Silverado was heading north on South Main Street when the truck went into the opposite lane and off the road before hitting a tree. The driver and passenger were both taken to Danbury Hospital. Police said Tuesday the passenger, 26-year-old Paltin Loja, later died.

The next fatal incident occurred around 10:20 a.m. Saturday morning, after a head-on crash in Groton.

Police said the driver of a Volkswagen Jetta was killed after he veered into oncoming traffic on Buddington Road, colliding with a Jeep Cherokee. The driver was found unconscious at the scene and taken to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the Jeep and her 5-year-old daughter were also taken to the hospital with what police described as non-life-threatening injuries.

Less than an hour later, around 11:12 a.m. in Burlington, a 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek struck a motorcycle at the intersection of Route 4 and Belden Road, according to the Connecticut State Police. The operator of the motorcycle, identified as a 25-year-old Manchester man, suffered suspected serious injuries in the crash and was admitted to Hartford Hospital, state police said. His passenger, identified as 23-year-old Burlington woman, Jena Marie Flammia, was pronounced dead at the University of Connecticut Health Center.

Early Sunday morning, state police said the driver of a Toyota minivan was heading west on Interstate 84 in West Hartford near Exit 40 when he lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle "traveled across all three lanes of travel," the right shoulder and the Exit 41 entrance ramp before slamming into a concrete sound barrier to the right side of the highway, state police said. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene, state police said. He was identified as 22-year-old Luis Daniel Colon, of New Britain.

Later in the day, two people, including the director of a Vernon homeless shelter, were killed in a head-on crash in Tolland.

State police said the crash occurred just before 1:30 p.m. on Route 195. The agency said 67-year-old Coventry resident Amanda Josephine Bowen was heading south when she went over the double-yellow line, hitting another car head-on. State police identified the other driver as 64-year-old Ellington resident Bryan Flint, the deputy director of the Cornerstone Foundation in the Rockville section of Vernon. Flint also headed the organization's shelter.

Later Sunday afternoon, a motorcyclist was killed on Lower County Road in Wolcott. Hours later, another motorcyclist was killed in a crash involving a tractor-trailer in South Windsor. Police said the crash occurred around 6:55 p.m. on Route 5 near the Chapel Road intersection. Police said the motorcyclist, identified as 60-year-old East Windsor resident, Norman L. Poulin, was killed in the crash.

In addition to the eight people who died in Connecticut, one person died and three others were injured in a crash early Sunday on Interstate 91 just over the Enfield border in Longmeadow, Mass.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijan and Lithuania will sign a protocol determining practical directions of future cooperation, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius, Trend reports.

We look forward to the 7th meeting of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation, which were co-chairing. We will certainly discuss a number of important issues of our bilateral cooperation agenda at this session. As an outcome, we plan to sign a protocol that will determine the practical directions of our future cooperation and will further vitalize the economic, political, cultural, energy, humanitarian and social relations between our countries, he said.

Bayramov expressed hope that the protocol will serve as a roadmap of the multifaceted cooperation.

We highly value the role of parliamentary diplomacy as a good instrument to promote cooperation between national parliaments and boost their participation in the diplomacy. We believe it is important to expand the interparliamentary cooperation between our countries. The visit of the speaker of Milli Majlis (parliament) of Azerbaijan Sahiba Gafarova to Lithuania in February 2022 contributed to the development of our relations at the parliamentary level. In order to strengthen the interparliamentary cooperation it is important to further increase the efforts of friendship groups operating in the parliaments of both countries, he added.
Warmer weather this past winter and early spring is leading to an increase in ticks, according to state scientists.

"Tick activity this year started quite early. We did not have much of a break during the winter months," said Goudarz Molaei, director of the Tick Testing Program for Lyme and Allied Diseases at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES). "In the past, during the winter months, we used to maybe receive about 100 ticks for the entire duration. In recent years, that number has increased to several hundred."

The state has received 1,200 ticks so far this year as part of its passive tick collection program, but these 1,200 are just a fraction of ticks in Connecticut, according to Molaei. This year is projected to be the second-highest year for tick activity  second to 2021.

"We moved to high gear in early March," Molaei added.

According to Molaei, we are entering peak tick activity for blacklegged ticks, or deer ticks, which make up 80 percent of all ticks in Connecticut. Once this current peak subsides by mid-May, the month of June will see another peak in tick activity. The last peak in tick activity this year will take place in November.

In January, CAES scientists were warning of ticks being "active year-round" in Connecticut. This is because winter was shorter and milder this year, according to Molaei. The increase in rainfall has also played a part in the presence of ticks in Connecticut. "If we get a good amount of precipitation, that would provide enough humidity for these ticks not be desiccated," Molaei said.

Additionally, an increase in the state's deer population has made it easier for deer ticks to find hosts to feed on. Molaei said that there are 12 active tick-borne illnesses that the state is monitoring, including Powassan virus, which killed a Connecticut woman in 2022, anaplasmosis and Lyme disease.

Connecticut is also combating invasive tick species, including the lone star tick, the Gulfcoast tick and the Asian longhorned tick. Last year, CAES was given $5 million from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to come up with "creative ways to control the tick population" as well as train scientists on how to fight tick-borne illnesses.

As for keeping pets safe during tick season, Molaei said that pet owners should talk to their veterinarians to discuss options for preventing tick bites including specialized collars and topical medications. There are also specialized antibiotics that fight tick-borne illnesses, like Lyme disease, especially in dogs.

Ticks can be submitted for testing using the CAES tick submission form. Ticks must be properly sent in accordance with CAES standards. There is no fee to submit ticks for testing.
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ISTANBUL (AP)  As Turkey heads for presidential and parliamentary elections at the weekend that are shaping up to be the strongest challenge to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his 20 years as leader, complaints are growing about the fairness of the vote.

Turkeys opposition has long said that the countrys elections are played out on an unequal playing field, claims often backed by international observers.

Media coverage stands out as the most obvious example of where Erdogan enjoys an advantage over his opponents, but factors such as the use of state resources while campaigning and the questionable interpretation of electoral law also feature.

Some 90% of Turkeys media is in the hands of the government or its backers, according to Reporters Without Borders, ensuring overwhelming airtime for the president. Only a handful of opposition newspapers remain in print, most having transitioned to online-only editions.

During April, Erdogan received nearly 33 hours of airtime on the main state-run TV station, according to opposition members of the broadcasting watchdog. His presidential opponent, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, received 32 minutes.

The main opposition party, the Republican Peoples Party, or CHP, last month launched legal action against broadcaster TRT for failing to screen its campaign video.

Unfortunately, the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation has moved away from being an impartial and objective institution and has turned into the Tayyip Radio and Television Corporation, CHP lawmaker Tuncay Ozkan said.

The remaining independent media also face increasing restrictions. Last month, broadcasting authority RTUK fined independent channels Fox News, Halk TV and TELE1 over news and commentary deemed a breach of regulations. Ilhan Tasci, an opposition-appointed RTUK member, said in all three cases the stations had been accused of criticizing or questioning the actions of the ruling party.

In a statement following the last presidential and general elections in 2018, observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe noted that Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) enjoyed an undue advantage, including in excessive coverage by government-affiliated public and private media outlets.

The governments reach has also been extended over social media, where many opposition voices have retreated.

A disinformation law introduced in October allows a jail sentence of up to three years for spreading false information with the sole aim of creating anxiety, fear or panic among the public.

Sinan Aygul, the only journalist to be prosecuted under the new law, was handed a 10-month prison term in February. He is currently free while appealing the case.

The real aim is to silence all dissident voices in society, said Aygul, chair of the journalists association in Bitlis, southeastern Turkey. It is a law that targets anyone who expresses an opinion. It targets not only individuals but also media organs, he said.

The ill-defined law criminalizes basic journalistic activities, Aygul said, adding that it could be used during the elections to target groups seeking to protect ballot box security who use social media to highlight abuses.

If there is going to be fraud in the election, all opposition channels will be silenced by using this law, he said.

The imposition of a state of emergency over the 11 provinces hit by Februarys earthquake has also raised concerns about how the polls will be conducted in the region. A U.N. report published April 11 said at least 3 million people had relocated from their homes in the quake zone, many of them heading to other parts of Turkey.

However, just 133,000 people from the earthquake region have registered to vote outside their home provinces, the head of the Supreme Election Council said last month. Ahmet Yener added that election officials were overseeing preparations, including polling stations at temporary shelters.

In 2018, a nationwide state of emergency imposed following a 2016 coup attempt was in place until shortly before the election, which the OSCE said restricted the media and freedoms of assembly and expression.

Erdogan has stepped up his public appearances, which are closely followed by most TV channels, and uses these official duties to attack his rivals. At a ceremony on the Friday of Eid al-Fitr last month to mark renovations to Istanbuls Blue Mosque, he accused the opposition of working with terrorist groups.

The previous evening, the leaders of four political parties allied to the AKP were present for an event to launch the delivery of Black Sea natural gas, despite none holding any government position.

Other large projects that were rolled out ahead of the vote include Turkeys first nuclear power reactor built by Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear energy company, and several defense developments.

Critics also point to the bending of election law to allow government ministers to stand as parliamentary candidates while remaining in office, despite legal requirements to the contrary.

The election board, meanwhile, has previously faced criticism for siding with AKP objections during elections.

In the 2019 local polls, the victorious opposition mayoral candidate for Istanbul was forced to face a rerun following AKP complaints of ballot irregularities. Results from district and city council votes, which were collected in the same boxes and favored the AKP, were not questioned.

Adem Sozuer of Istanbul Universitys law faculty told the opposition Cumhuriyet newspaper that voters had lost confidence in the election authorities. There is widespread suspicion in a significant part of society that elections will be rigged, he said.
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MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos Supreme Court voted Monday to overturn a pair of electoral law reforms favored by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador because Congress rushed them through to a vote without debate, or even time to read them.

The 9-2 vote threatens Lopez Obradors habit of demanding legislators approve bills they often received just a few hours or even minutes before, often late at night or in the early morning hours.

Justice Jorge Pardo said of one of the laws approved last year, there were not even three hours between the time the bill was sent (to congress) and the time it was voted on.

The Constitution requires congress to consider and debate any laws it passes. In one case, justices argued that changes were made to the text of one of the bills without telling the legislators before they voted on it.

The laws struck down on Monday involved electoral rules limiting partisan activity by politicians who hold public offices. Lopez Obrador had sought to loosen limits on what public servants can say about electoral races, or how they can use government advertising.

The presidents office accused the countrys highest court of overstepping its powers. On Sunday  apparently anticipating the ruling  the office claimed the vote would violate the separation of powers by overring the legislative branch.

The justice argued the legislative branch has to follow its own rules.

Lopez Obrador has high approval ratings, and his Morena party and its allies controls majorities in both house of congress. But because the president does not have the two-thirds majorities needed to change the Constitution, he has often resorted to ramming legal changes  some of which violate the Constitution  through the legislature.

The Supreme Court ruling appears to raise the possibility that more recently approved laws could be struck down as well, because they were also rushed through congress.

For example, in late April, Mexicos Senate approved 18 laws, including major changes to mining laws, in a few hours with no debate. The opposition occupied the Senates normal headquarters to protest a lack of debate on the measures, so the Morena senators and allies met in an alternative chamber and passed law after law past midnight.

The court has already struck down some of the president's favored laws.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled that last years transfer of the newly created National Guard from civilian to military control was unconstitutional.

The vast majority of the National Guards members and leadership came from Mexicos military, but it was described in the Constitution as a force under civilian command and placed under the control of the civilian public security ministry.
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GUILFORD  A 100-foot section of the historic Rainbow25 Sea-to-Sea Flag, that made its debut in Key West in 2003, will play an important role in The Guilford Pride Event.

The Guilford Green will be the site of The Guilford Pride Event from 12  4 p.m., Saturday, May 20.

The piece of the iconic 1.25-mile sailcloth flag will be carried in the parade that begins at 1 p.m. at the town hall and circles the green. The flag is handmade by Gilbert Baker, long considered the Betsy Ross of the gay community, for Rainbow25, the 25th anniversary of the rainbow flag, according to Scott Seitz.

Seitz, a Guilford resident and owner of the marketing agency SPI Marketing LLC, received parts of the flag since his firm represented ABSOLUT, a presenting sponsor of Rainbow25.

Seitz talked about the importance of having the flag at the Guilford pride celebration.

Not only will the flag honor Gilberts memory and what he did and what he started, he said, I think the other part of it is the flag is a unifying feature and we need that now, more than ever.

Were going to be able to be out there and help people be seen and visible, which is critical to the gay, LGBTQ+ community and were going to be sharing something special with everybody, he said.

Schuyler Beeman, the first performer of the day, is also a big fan of the flag.

A rainbow flag any day is always exciting, the 35-year-old Guilford native said.

That flag is just so indicative of joy and support and excitement, he said. So, for me, just being able to see and maybe even touch that flag - what it represents to our community is just such a blessing.

A cabaret performer, Beeman will take to the stage to sing show tunes and jazz standards and tell some of his own personal stories.

Its all just about my experience of coming to find out who I am as a person, as a gay man, he said.

Any chance that I can just come out and be my authentic self is a great opportunity for someone to learn something or see something differently, he said.

The afternoon will also include speakers, entertainers, vendors, food trucks and craft projects.

Sarah Celottos 16-year-old son, Cameron, is part of the LGBTQ+ community and she created this celebration because she believes, everyone should be treated equally and fairly, deserves to be happy and to live their lives as their true authentic selves, she said.

She admitted, I didnt realize how ignorant I was until I had a child who was part of this community that I realized I knew nothing of.

In addition to initiating the pride day, Celotto started the nonprofit organization, ALEX, Inc., which stands for Acceptance, Love, Equality and Xenacious.

Its mission is to create a society where everybodys treated fairly and can live their lives as their true authentic selves, said Celotto.

She explained that xenacious means eager to learn and eager for change.

I knew when I started Guilford Pride, I wanted to do something bigger than holding one pride event, she said. Because I started to go to forums and speak to a lot of people.  I just learned so much about a community that I knew nothing of.

ALEX has just recently received nonprofit status and Celotto said she envisions hosting forums and possibly sponsoring a queer prom.

Its not just for the LGBTQ community at the queer prom, its for anybody that feels different and not comfortable going to their own prom, she said.

Celotto said the pride day is the inaugural event for ALEX.

This is really like, Lets have a day for the youth and lets make it just a fun day, she said.

Yes, its celebrating and a safe space for the LGBTQ community and were going to be celebrating them, but also its just a way to bring Guilford together, she said.

Celotto said she has no idea how many people will attend, but if I have two people, if I have 10 people, if I have 20 people, maybe Ive affected them or changed their life.

Maybe just for that day, they are now in a safe space, a space where they know that theyre loved and they can be themselves and no ones going to judge them and no ones going to call them names and so if I can do that, Im OK, she said.

Beeman supports the first pride day in Guilford. He recalled he was a kid that was crazy closeted all throughout growing up in Guilford and came out when he was a sophomore in college.

Everybody knew that I was gay before I knew that I was gay, he said.

So, to be able to welcome this event, in my hometown, after having a hometown that was so supportive and so loving and patient and kind with meit just seemed like a really wonderful way to give back, he said.

He also thinks the Guilford Green is the perfect spot to hold the event.

To have a pride event on such an iconic piece of Connecticut real estate, which is the Guilford Green, said Beeman, showcases the warmth and the love of our community.

Beeman said he hope the event will be an example for folks to see like, Hey, Im a gay person and this is my life, its pretty similar to yours, isnt it.

Celotto wants people to come with an open mind.

At the end of the day, most of our Guilford residents are great people and they have a lot of love to give, she said.

As forward and advanced thinking Guilford is, theres still things we need to learn and things we need to do, she said.
U kraines Eurovision act has described the UK as family after arriving in Liverpool to the sight of sunflowers and their national flag.

The city has been transformed with public artworks and installations for the international music competition, which the UK is hosting on behalf of Ukraine amid the Russian invasion.

Electronic duo Tvorchi, made up of producer Andrii Hutsuliak and Nigeria-raised vocalist Jeffery Kenny, will compete in the grand final with their rousing song Heart Of Steel.

The pair are hoping to defend Ukraines Eurovision title after Kalush Orchestra swept to victory last year on a wave of support from the voting public.

They are yet to meet the folk-rap outfit, who are scheduled to perform during the grand final on Saturday, and also said President Volodymyr Zelensky had not yet reached out to wish them luck.

Hutsuliak told the PA news agency they had been impressed by the tributes to Ukraine around the city.

He added: A lot of things we were actually surprised by. For example, walking earlier we saw sunflowers, a lot of flags everywhere, different installations, objects.

There are installations that are made by Ukrainian artists united with British artists, and they made those installations which is very cool.

We feel like a whole big family and this makes our hearts warm, that we have such friends who can help us in these hard times. We feel very, very thankful for everything.

Kenny said finally rehearsing on the Eurovision stage at the M&S Bank Arena had elevated the message of their song.

But still the message, everything remains the same, he added.

It is about composing yourself and being able to just deliver that message, but being calm and collected.

Hutsuliak said Heart Of Steel can be for anyone because of its universal message of being strong, being confident, being brave, and staying in a good attitude despite negative situations.

We feel like everyone meets those situations in their lives, he added.

Everyone has hard times because its life  and we want to inspire people to be strong in those situations.

Just bring a good attitude going forward and everything will be good. You can look at the Ukrainians. We have this war and this feeling that we are not safe. You dont know which minute the missile will strike you or your friends.

We just want to show by our example that we are united, we are strong, and its such a bad situation but we keep doing that. Every citizen of our country is making all the efforts to make the victory faster.

From kids singing songs on the streets to raise money to give to volunteers who are buying drones or medicine or something else. Everyone is doing their best to make our victory faster. We want by our example to inspire people to be like that.

As Tvorchi, Hutsuliak and Kenny have scored four number one albums in Ukraine.

Their latest record fended off competition from international stars Kanye West and Drake to reach the top spot domestically.

The group formed after a chance meeting in the lakeside city of Ternopil in western Ukraine, where both were studying at the medical university.

Hutsuliak stopped Kenny, who had recently moved from Nigeria, in the street and asked if he could practice English with him, and Kenny accepted on the condition he could practise his Ukrainian.

When Russia invaded in February 2022, Kenny decided to remain in Ukraine in part so they could continue to make music together.

The competition kicked off in earnest on Sunday when Tvorchi were joined by the 36 other artists for the turquoise carpet welcome ceremony in Liverpool.

Mae Muller, 25, will compete for the UK with her track I Wrote A Song, which features tongue-in-cheek lyrics about a cheating ex-boyfriend and a propulsive dance beat.

A total of 37 countries are set to take part in Eurovision this year, with Ukraine automatically qualifying for the grand final as 2022 winners as well as the so-called big five  the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain  who each get a free pass because of their financial contributions to the event.

Wild Youth will represent Ireland with their song We Are One.

To reach the final on Saturday, the group will have to qualify from Tuesdays semi-final, which also includes entries from competition favourites Sweden and Finland.

The semi-finals will be broadcast on the BBC on May 9 and May 11, with the grand final on May 13.
Review at a glance









D esperate people living in a war-scarred country where food is scarce, employment is limited and society is patriarchal are being lured overseas with the promise of a better life for them and their children  only to be faced with widespread hostility, inadequate housing and back-breaking menial work. Sound familiar?

Yes, its Britain in 1956, a grey, bleak, bombed-out nation whose citizens  over a million between the schemes start in 1947 and its demise in 1981  were lured to Australia (and later New Zealand) as part of its post-war Populate or perish policy, for the price of a 10 boat ticket.

This has been dramatised in the BBCs latest Sunday night series, Ten Pound Poms, which opens on Annie and Terry Roberts (Faye Marsay and Warren Brown) and their two children, and Kate (Michelle Keegan), a nurse, all on the cusp of making a life-changing journey.

Disembarking from the boat into a land of sunshine, bouncing kangaroos and unstuffy, first-name-terms Aussie culture is joyous but this moment of optimism is short-lived. The promise of affordable housing and well-paid jobs was a lie. Instead they will be living in a tented immigration camp, which operates according to its own laws and is run by the exploitative, rough and ready JJ.

Michelle Keegan as Kate / BBC/Eleven/John Platt

Their reception in the local town is also menacing but as white people (at a time when the White Australia policies of the 19th century were still influential) they discover they are better off than the indigenous locals  to their personal discomfort. Annie is horrified when an Aboriginal woman is forced to the back of the queue in the department store she nonetheless ends up working in, while Terry finds a tentative kinship with Ron, an indigenous war veteran who works alongside him on the pipeline digging job he secures.

Its an eye-opening watch for those who know little about the Ten Pound Pom history, myself included, and the Australian mockery of stiff, uptight Brits will still strike a wry chord with audiences today. The period details and the atmosphere it conjures of a different world and era are charming but I couldnt help feeling there would be enough drama in the events as they happened  the culture shock, the separation from home, friends and family  without the addition of the big secrets, lies and shocking events forced on the characters, in particular Michelle Keegans Kate, who is running from some traumatic event in her past.

You dont have to be Sigmund Freud to understand the symbolism of turning to Australias notoriously harsh immigration system for content, just as British policy takes a turn for the worse. The programmes makers seem to have their hearts in the right place and the parallels between the series subject matter and our current issues with migration are striking.

Making Brits the mistreated migrants could be a masterstroke, helping foster greater understanding and empathy towards those being treated as threatening invaders today. But the way Annie and Terry are portrayed as being appalled by Australian racism  as if they had never encountered such a thing in 1950s Stockport  acts as an undeserved salve to our national consciousness as a supposedly more tolerant and multicultural society that I found seriously unconvincing.

Ten Pound Poms will air on BBC One from May 14
A 17-year-old boy has been stabbed to death in Buckinghamshire in a targeted attack, police said.

Thames Valley Police are hunting for up to four suspects - who had their faces covered - following Sunday nights attack in High Wycombe.

Another 17-year-old boy was also hurt but his injuries are not thought to be life-threatening and he has been taken to hospital.

Officers were called to reports of the stabbing in the Easton Street area of High Wycombe at about 7.30pm on Sunday.

No arrests have been made.

Senior investigating officer Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown said the investigation into the tragic incident was in the very early stages and details as to what has happened are currently very limited.

He added: The incident occurred between around 7pm and 7.30pm close to the main car parks of Easton Street at a time when members of the public would have been using the car parks, attending the theatre or preparing for a night out in the town.

It is therefore very important that anyone who was close to Easton Street at this time and saw something unusual or out of the ordinary or indeed knows anything about this incident gets in touch as soon as possible.

Anyone who has any information or footage from dash-cams, doorbells or CCTV close to Easton Street is urged to make contact.

This is a tragic incident in which a teenage boy has been killed, and I know that it will cause a great deal of concern in the community.

However, Id like to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough investigation into what appears to be a targeted attack.

He said there would be a large police presence in the area as officers investigated.

On Monday, Wycombe MP Steve Baker, who is also a Northern Ireland Office minister, told the PA news agency: This is a tragic incident and its vital we leave space for the police to conduct their inquiries and, for that reason, I dont want to say much about this continuing inquiry.

But my heart goes out to the young mans family and friends who I do not doubt will feel devastated.

For the people of Wycombe, they should know that the police are closely investigating this and they have my complete confidence as they follow things up.

A woman who works close to the scene of the stabbing, who did not give her name, said while she did not see the incident, she was a bit scared because its on our doorstep because my shop is just 10 metres from that.

Anyone with information or footage which could help the investigation is asked to call 101, quoting reference number 43230199275.

It comes after three people were stabbed to death in separate incidents in east London over a period of less than eight hours on the eve of the coronation.

A 16-year-old was ambushed as he left school and stabbed to death, while murder investigations were also started after the killings of an 18-year-old and a man in his late 20s, the Metropolitan Police said.

In another incident, an 18-year-old man who has been named by police as Ben Moncrieff was killed in Bath, in Somerset, on Saturday.

Officers were called to the Southgate Street area of the city at around 3.30am on Saturday where the victim was found critically injured and died at the scene.

Avon and Somerset Police said three people were arrested the same day, with two released without charge, while a 15-year-old suspect remained in custody after police were granted more time to question him over the incident.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The official visit of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov to the Republic of Lithuania began on May 8, Trend reports citing Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

Within the framework of the visit, the Minister is scheduled to meet with government officials of the Republic of Lithuania, as well as to speak as a co-chair at the seventh meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Bilateral Cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.
T wo men have been injured in a drive-by shooting in a residential street in east London.

Police were called to Swaton Road around 9pm on Sunday to reports of gunshots.

They found two men, aged 21 and 66, suffering bullet wounds.

They were taken to hospital, where their conditions were assessed as not life-threatening.

Police believe they were sitting a car when they were shot by a suspect who then fled the scene in a silver Skoda Octavia, which travelled along Campbell Road.

It comes after another drive-by shooting in Peckham on Sunday left two men injured, while another shooting on Saturday saw a man shot in the back while he was sat in a car in Mitcham.

Scotland Yard says the three incidents are not currently thought to be connected.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with footage or details about the Bow shooting to come forward, saying the slightest fragment of information could prove crucial.

Detective Inspector Mat Freeman of the Mets Specialist Crime North said: Any firearm discharge on the streets of London is cause for huge concern to members of the public, and I can assure them that we share that concern and are doing everything we possibly can to identify those responsible.

It would have been busy with traffic and people in the area at the time. We are keen to speak to anyone who has dash cam footage or information that could help us, especially with regards this vehicle.

The slightest fragment of information could prove crucial so please, if you have information or material that can help, make contact immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or tweet @MetCC giving the reference CAD 6896/07MAY23.

Information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, online or by calling 0800 555 111.
T he family of a schoolboy who was stabbed to death outside his school have spoken of their devastation as a 16-year-old boy was charged with his murder.

Renell Charles, 16, a pupil at Kelmscott School in Walthamstow, east London, was attacked shortly after the end of the day on Friday.

Emergency services attended but despite their efforts, he died at the scene a short time later.

Fighting back tears, a cousin told the Standard on Tuesday: He was a happy boy, now he has gone. Why? His parents are devastated. He was a good person.

A 16-year-old boy was set to appear at Stratford Magistrates Court after he was charged with Renells murder.

Students and teachers this morning laid flowers at the spot where Renell died outside the gates of the school.

Headteacher Sam Jones said the attack marked the darkest of days for the community as a shrine built up at the crime scene on Markhouse Road.

Mr Jones told staff and parents the school would reopen today. Before classes, he led a special assembly to comfort pupils.

Renell, known affectionately as Renz, was attacked in front of classmates at the school gates.

An Arsenal shirt bearing the words Renzs World lay next to packets of Skittles and Haribo, his favourite sweets.

One parent said: This death has left a hole in my sons life. I also fear for his safety. The streets are not safe.

An eyewitness described how a teacher tried to save Renell.

He said: I saw two punching each other. I shouted to stop. One of them had been stabbed, he fell to the ground, the stuffing in his jacket came out from where the knife went in. The attacker was in a mask and had a very big knife.

I was told the attacker came in here in a white Hyundai taxi. I havent been able to sleep. I keep running the scene over in my head.

His murder came amid a weekend of bank holiday violence in London.

Hours after Renells death, Wazabakana Elenda Jordan Kukabu, known as Jordan, 18, was stabbed to death near Dagenham Heathway Tube station. A second male was taken to hospital with a knife injury.

A 20-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder was released with no further action.

Police are also investigating the killing of Sebastian Zon, 27, who was stabbed in Hackney about 11pm on Friday. Zbigniew Galek, 52, has been charged with murder.

Two men aged 21 and 66-year-old were treated for gunshot injuries following a shooting in Swaton Road, Bow at 9pm on Sunday.

The victims were sat in a car when targeted by a suspect who then fled the scene in a silver Skoda Octavia travelling in the direction of Campbell Road.

That same night, two other men were injured in a drive-by shooting as they sat in a vehicle on Lyndhurst Way, Peckham.

Suspects on a moped fired at them before the victims vehicle overturned as they attempted to flee.

On Saturday evening, another motorist was shot in Clarendon Road, Mitcham.

Separately, a 15-year-old old boy from south London has been charged with the murder of Ben Moncrieff, 18, in Bath, Somerset, in the early hours of Saturday.
T alks on renewing Britains business ties with Hong Kong will be held during the first visit to the city by a UK minister since Chinas crackdown on its civil rights.

The Government has condemned the national security law imposed by Beijing on the former British territory in 2020 after mass protests.

The move strained relations and led to the creation of a visa scheme allowing Hong Kongers to come to Britain.

But the UK Government has recently made clear that it wants to maintain engagement with China despite political differences.

For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively

Investment minister Lord Dominic Johnson will discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong government representatives.

He said he will also stress that the UK will call out the violation of their (Hong Kongers) freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

It comes after the highly controversial attendance of Chinas vice-president Han Zheng, who has been blamed for the curtailment of freedom in the former British territory, at the Kings coronation.

The decision to invite Mr Han was strongly criticised by China hawks on the Tory benches and Lord Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong.

The Foreign Secretary said he made plain the UKs position on Hong Kong when he met with the Chinese vice-president in London ahead of the royal event.

But James Cleverly argued that the UK must engage directly with China in a recent foreign policy speech, angering some Tory critics of China who want ministers to go further in distancing the UK from Beijing and to be more outspoken in criticising its leadership.

Ahead of his trip, Lord Dominic Johnson said: Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excel  from financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

The UKs ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed. For future generations we have an obligation to engage  robustly and also constructively  and our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

The UK says China remains in breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, under which it has a duty to uphold Hong Kongs high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms.

Hong Kong was handed over from the UK to China in 1997 with a promise by Beijing to keep western-style liberties under a one country, two systems framework.
H umza Yousaf will campaign with whoever the candidates are at next years election, as an MP suspended after being found to have acted inappropriately towards a party staffer seeks re-selection.

Reports suggested on Monday that Patrick Grady was seeking re-selection in his Glasgow North seat for the SNP, despite spending six months as an independent last year following an investigation of the accusations by parliamentary authorities.

Mr Grady was suspended from the House of Commons for two days and apologised in Parliament, saying: I am profoundly sorry for my behaviour and I deeply regret my actions and their consequences.

Pushed on the whether he would be comfortable campaigning alongside Mr Grady, with Mr Yousaf having pitched himself as the first activist in the SNP leadership campaign and likely to take a leading role in the general election, the First Minister said: If hes gone through the assessment, cleared the assessment process and the local constituency party, of course, has selected him, then I will be up and down the country campaigning with whoever the candidates are.

But thats a hypothetical point.

But Mr Yousaf also hinted it was not a foregone conclusion the Glasgow North MP would win re-selection.

Ive not heard anything from Patrick Grady, he said.

But Patrick Grady will have to go through the vetting process as any other candidate will have to do so and, of course, again like anybody else, his conduct and his behaviour will be part of that assessment during that vetting process.

He added: It would be for the local constituency to determine whether or not hes the appropriate candidate, even if he is assessed.

Patrick Grady, of course, was right to be punished by the SNP in terms of the suspension, he was right to then apologise publicly as well as apologise privately.

But, be in no doubt, every single candidate that goes forward for a general election, their conduct and behaviour will be taken into account.

An investigation by Commons authorities found Mr Grady had acted inappropriately towards a teenage party staffer at an SNP event in London, with the victim heavily criticising how the complaint was subsequently handled.

The man, who no longer works for the party, said his life was made a living hell and he had been made to feel as though it was his fault.
T he King and Queen have called the nations support the greatest possible coronation gift as they release official portraits marking the end of the historic weekend.

Charles has issued a written message saying he and Camilla give their most sincere and heartfelt thanks to countless people who helped make coronation celebrations across the UK a success.

The newly-crowned King said he and Camilla have rededicated their lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.

The King has been captured in his full regalia in traditional official portraits marking his crowning by Hugo Burnand. Camilla was pictured alongside the King and also in a solo portrait.

Official coronation portraits 1 / 9 Official coronation portraits PA Hugo , Burnand/Buckinham Palace PA via REUTERS PA PA PA

Meanwhile Prince Louis turned into a labourer as he joined Prince George, Princess Charlotte and the Prince and Princess of Wales by shovelling dirt and operating a digger as they helped out at a Scout Hut in Slough as part of the national volunteering drive to mark the coronation.
T he King and Queen have called the nations support the greatest possible coronation gift as they release official portraits marking the end of historic celebrations.

King Charles III has issued a statement following the three-day festivities, re-pledging to a life of service and thanking countless people who worked tirelessly to make sure coronation celebrations went smoothly.

Traditional official portraits marking the coronation of Charles and Queen Camilla were also released on Monday to round off the monarchys crowning.

Among them, the King was captured in his full regalia. He wore the Imperial State Crown, holding the Orb and Sceptre with Cross, and dressed in his regal purple tunic and Robe of Estate, seated on a Throne Chair in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace.

Camilla was pictured alongside the King, and also in a solo portrait, wearing Queen Marys Crown, with the train of her lengthy embroidered Robe of Estate spread in front of her.

The working royal family  the Prince and Princess of Wales, the Edinburghs, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, the Duke of Kent, the Gloucesters and Princess Alexandra  were also photographed standing with the King and Queen in the images by Hugo Burnand.

Former Tatler photographer Hugo Burnand  a favourite of Charles and Camillas  took the couples official wedding photos in 2005, and for William and Kates nuptials in 2011.

The King, signing his words Charles R, said he and Camilla gave our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

He added: To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible Coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.

The King also paid tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.

To those who joined in the celebrations  whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities  we thank you, each and every one.

PA

On Monday Prince Louis turned into a labourer as he joined Prince George, Princess Charlotte and the Prince and Princess of Wales by shovelling dirt, pushing wheelbarrows and operating a digger as they helped out at a Scout Hut in Slough as part of the national volunteering drive to mark the coronation.

While the King and Queen had a quiet day away from the public eye after Sunday evenings Coronation Concert, other royals joined in the Big Help Out.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh helped at a puppy class for trainee Guide Dogs in Reading, while the Princess Royal attend a County Civic Service recognising local volunteers in Gloucester Cathedral.

Photographs from the day show Louis and George joining their dad at the controls of a digger in Slough.

The Royal Kids Take Part in Volunteering Day 1 / 21 The Royal Kids Take Part in Volunteering Day Britains Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, volunteer at a local scout hut as part of the Big Help Out, in Slough REUTERS The Royals at The Big Help Out Getty Images Prince William at The Big Help Out Getty Images The Prince and Princess of Wales at The Big Help Out POOL/AFP via Getty Images The Royals take part in The Big Help Out Getty Images Prince Louis takes part in The Big Help Out Getty Images The Royals take part in the big volunteering initiative PA Princess Charlotte at The Big Help Out Getty Images The Princess of Wales takes aim as part of the big volunteering initiative POOL/AFP via Getty Images The Royals take part in volunteering day AP The Prince of Wales and Prince Louis take part in the Coronation Volunteering Day initiative POOL/AFP via Getty Images Princess Charlotte and Prince George take a break at volunteering day PA The Princess of Wales and Prince Louis take part in volunteering POOL/AFP via Getty Images Prince Louis does his bit at volunteering day AP The Princess of Wales and Prince Louis POOL/AFP via Getty Images Princess Charlotte at volunteering day PA

Kate watched over her son, telling him to shovel in a bit more and when the barrow was a quarter full, Louis wheeled it away to help volunteers building a path and made a number of runs.

The young royals beavered away helping renovate the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut as the adults reset a path, dug a new soakaway, sanded and revarnished a door, screwed together planters and created a mural as a lasting legacy of their work.

Across the country people were encouraged to devote some free time on Monday for the Big Help Out, aimed at showcasing volunteering.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty were among them, chopping fruit and vegetables in the dining room of Mill End Community Centre in Rickmansworth.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak / PA

But the cost of the coronation weekend - expected to be more than 100 million - has been criticised by some political groups and individuals including Scotlands First Minister.

Some people will be rightly uncomfortable over the amount spent on the occassion during a cost-of-living crisis, Humza Yousaf said.

Speaking after he had been present when the King was crowned at Westminster Abbey, Mr Yousaf said: I made it pretty clear that I hope that the costs would be kept to a minimum.

I think most people watching, whether theyre republicans or whether theyre monarchists, would want the costs kept to a minimum.

He added: I think a number of folk will have felt uncomfortable with the costs that were involved.
A teenager who was stabbed to death outside a Tube station in east London has been pictured and named by police.

Officers and paramedics were scrambled to near Dagenham Heath Tube station just before midnight on Friday, following reports of a machete fight between two groups of people.

They found a man - who has now been identified as 18-year-old Jordan Kukabu, from Romford - with stab injuries.

Despite the best efforts of medical professionals he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Scotland Yard says a post-mortem examination held on Sunday, gave Mr Kukabus cause of death as a single stab wound to the chest.

A second man, aged 20, was also taken to hospital with a stab injury. His condition was assessed as non life-threatening.

A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, but has been released with no further action. However, he was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and has been released on bail for this offence.

Mr Kukabus uncle Michel Pongo said his mother has been left inconsolable following her sons death.

Mr Pongo, who is a councillor for Barking and Dagenham, wrote on Twitter on Saturday: It was with great sadness that this afternoon I learned that my nephew, Jordan, 18, had been stabbed to death in Dagenham last night.

His mother is inconsolable. If you are gang member, this message is for you. Drop your knife and quit the gangster life before it is too late.

Detective Chief Inspector James Shirley, from the Specialist Crime Command, said: My thoughts remain with the young mans family and friends. Dedicated detectives have been working around the clock since this tragic incident as we strive to identify and apprehend those responsible for killing Jordan.

Our investigation is making significant progress. Local people have provided us with information, which together with forensic enquiries and analysis of CCTV is enabling us to build a picture of what happened on Friday night.

I am grateful to everyone who has provided information. There will be other people with information that would assist our investigation and I urge them to come forward and share what they know or any relevant footage. This can be done anonymously through Crimestoppers should anyone prefer not to speak with police.

Superintendent Martin Rolston of the Mets East Area Command Unit, said: I am well aware of just how much this shocking incident has affected people in Dagenham and the surrounding area. I share their concerns and can assure local people that the Mets investigation is painstaking and completely focused on getting justice for the family and friends of Jordan.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or tweet @MetCC quoting 8711/05May. To remain 100% anonymous share your information via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
L ittle Prince Louis undertook his first public engagement on Monday as he joined his family at a Big Help Out coronation event.

The five-year-old even got to operate a digger with his father, the Prince of Wales, after seeing big brother, Prince George, nine, have a go and telling his mother: I want to go in with him!

Princess Charlotte, eight, helped out with painting and had a go at archery, knocking her two brothers out of the ball park with an instant 10 - a bullseye.

The Wales family were volunteering at the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut in Slough, Berkshire, as part of a nationwide day of volunteering to celebrate King Charles and Queen Camillas crowning.

The Royal Kids Take Part in Volunteering Day 1 / 21 The Royal Kids Take Part in Volunteering Day Britains Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, volunteer at a local scout hut as part of the Big Help Out, in Slough REUTERS The Royals at The Big Help Out Getty Images Prince William at The Big Help Out Getty Images The Prince and Princess of Wales at The Big Help Out POOL/AFP via Getty Images The Royals take part in The Big Help Out Getty Images Prince Louis takes part in The Big Help Out Getty Images The Royals take part in the big volunteering initiative PA Princess Charlotte at The Big Help Out Getty Images The Princess of Wales takes aim as part of the big volunteering initiative POOL/AFP via Getty Images The Royals take part in volunteering day AP The Prince of Wales and Prince Louis take part in the Coronation Volunteering Day initiative POOL/AFP via Getty Images Princess Charlotte and Prince George take a break at volunteering day PA The Princess of Wales and Prince Louis take part in volunteering POOL/AFP via Getty Images Prince Louis does his bit at volunteering day AP The Princess of Wales and Prince Louis POOL/AFP via Getty Images Princess Charlotte at volunteering day PA

Their decision to bring their young family was kept secret until they arrived in order to minimise any fuss for the youngsters who are being slowly introduced to the idea of public engagements.

The family were also insistent that the children get properly stuck in and lend a hand - which they certainly did.

The Prince and Princess and their children joined volunteers in renovating the Scout Hut, with works including resetting a path, digging a new soakaway, sanding and revarnishing the front door, adding planters to the front of the building and adding a mural to create a lasting legacy of the Big Help Outs work.

The children set to work straight away with Charlotte and Louis helping to paint a planter and George joining his father with some drilling.

Royal children George, Charlotte and Louis pitching in at the Scouts hut in Slough / Various

The two youngest children knelt down, grabbing brushes dripping with white masonry paint, oblivious to the fact that they were getting it on their hair and bare legs.

One followed volunteer asked Louis: You might want to be a painter when you grow up?

No a fighter pilot, he responded.

Just like your father and grandfather! the lady replied.

The children worked away without complaint while the Princess of Wales hovered over them. Well done Louis! she said.

When Kate tried to interject and advise Charlotte on what to do, her daughter said firmly but politely: I dont like this.

Charlotte told her brother: Youve got paint in your hair! Louis, look at me! Look at me!

Prince Louis pushes a wheelbarrow as he follows his mother Catherine, Princess of Wales and sister Charlotte / Getty Images

Yes Louis, look at Charlotte, the adult volunteer said.

Louis seemed supremely unbothered.

Youve got to wipe it, Charlotte gently admonished him.

Its all going much quicker with you two helping out, the lady assisting them assured the children.

Careful! Charlotte told Louis again as he got over-excited with his brush.

Meanwhile William and George both wielded drills on a wooden planter.

Prince Louis uses his hand to make a paint decoration on a wall / Getty Images

So far its still holding together, joked the heir to the throne.

George, dressed in chinos, trainers and a puffer coat, was the picture of concentration as he placed a screw carefully into a hole and drilled it in.

Kate wandered over to her eldest son and asked him: Have you ever used a drill before? Its quite satisfying. How are you getting on George?

George pointed out to his mother what he was doing.

The family then walked off, Kate holding Louis hand, to try their hand at another task.

Charlotte rubbed at her legs to get the paint off.

The 3rd Upton Scouts Hut was built in 1982 and is used by a variety of community groups in the area, including the local mosque, a senior citizens contact group for members of the Asian community and the Scout group themselves.

The building is also used by Slough All Nations, a group with heritage spanning across St Kitts & Nevis, and which provides recreation and leisure activities to improve health and wellbeing and promote community cohesion. The Princess of Wales has been Joint President of the Scouts since 2020.

The Big Help Out has been created by some of Britains best-known charities from the Scouts to the Royal Voluntary Service, Rotary to the National Trust.

In tribute to His Majesty The Kings public service, the Big Help Out encourages people to try volunteering for themselves and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas.

The aim is to use volunteering to bring communities together and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend.
E ight people have been killed after they were struck by a car while waiting at a bus stop outside a migrant shelter in Texas.

The driver was taken to hospital after the collision in Brownsville, which injured at least 10 others, with police waiting to arrest him.

Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval said officers were unsure whether Sunday mornings collision in the border city was deliberate.

Mr Sandoval said: It could be intoxication, it could be an accident or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two.

Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released. Then well fingerprint him and (take a) mug shot, and then we can find his true identity.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said the SUV ran up the curb, flipped and continued moving for about 200 feet (60 metres). Some people walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet (nine metres) from the main group were also hit - witnesses detaining the driver as he tried to run away.

A police officer is consoled after the deadly incident / REUTERS

He said most of the victims were Venezuelan men waiting for the bus to return to downtown Brownsville after having spent the night at the overnight shelter.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, said Mr Maldonado, who said the centre had not received any threats before the crash.

A surge in the number of migrants prompted Brownsville commissioners to indefinitely extend a declaration of emergency on Thursday.

We dont want them wandering around outside, city commissioner Pedro Cardenas said after the crash. So, were trying to make sure theyre as comfortable as they can be so they dont have to go out and look for anywhere else.

Brownsville has long been an epicentre for migration across the US-Mexico border.

The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in the city and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody.
D onald Trumps absence from a trial where writer E. Jean Carroll accuses him of rape and defamation shows that he did it, a lawyer for the writer has said.

He never looked you in the eye and denied raping Ms Carroll, lawyer Mike Ferrara told jurors on Monday as the civil trial in Manhattan federal court neared the end of an eighth day.

You should draw the conclusion that thats because he did it.

But Mr Trumps lawyer told jurors the case was outrageous.

The jury was expected to begin deliberating on Tuesday.

Ms Carroll, 79, sued Mr Trump, 76, alleging he raped her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in 1995 or 1996 and then defamed her by denying it happened in an October 2022 post on Trumps Truth Social platform.

In that post, he called her claims a complete con job and a Hoax and a lie.

The former Elle magazine advice columnist is seeking unspecified monetary damages.

Mr Trump, who served as president from 2017 to 2021 and is the front-runner for the Republican US presidential nomination in 2024, waived his right to testify at trial and opted not to present a defense, gambling that jurors will find that Ms Carroll failed to make a persuasive case.

He told reporters in Ireland last week that he would probably attend, but did not show up.

Mr Trump has accused Ms Carroll of making up the story to drive sales of a 2019 memoir in which she made her claims public.

In a video deposition played for the jury on May 3, Trump denied raping the writer.

Its the most ridiculous, disgusting story, Mr Trump said in the video. Its just made up.

In his closing argument on Monday, Mr Trumps lawyer Joseph Tacopina said Ms Carrolls inability to recall the date of the alleged incident made it impossible for Trump to defend himself by citing an alibi, and called the case an affront to justice.

This is an absolutely outrageous case, Mr Tacopina said.

The facts in evidence make plain here that E. Jean Carrolls story is not worthy of your belief, not even close, he said.

Earlier on Monday, Carrolls lawyer Roberta Kaplan said a 2005 Access Hollywood video in which Mr Trump says women let him grab em by the pussy bolstered the accounts of Ms Carroll and other women who have accused Mr Trump of sexual assault.

He admitted on video to doing exactly the kinds of things that have brought us here to this courtroom, Ms Kaplan said.

During three days of testimony and cross-examination, Ms Carroll said that during the attack Mr Trump slammed her against the wall, put his fingers into her vagina and then inserted his penis.

Two of her longtime friends testified that she told them about the attack shortly after it occurred and said they believed her. Jurors also heard from two other women who said Mr Trump sexually assaulted them in separate incidents decades ago. He denies those claims as well.

Ms Kaplan did not specify the amount of money jurors should award Carroll in compensatory and punitive damages. She said Carroll had been unable to sustain a romantic relationship since the alleged rape, and that Trumps public criticism had harmed her clients reputation.

For E. Jean Carroll, this lawsuit is not about the money, Ms Kaplan said. This lawsuit is about getting her name back.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Iran depends on Iran, Deputy Director of Trend News Agency, political expert Rufiz Hafizoglu said during on the ARB24 TV channel, Trend reports.

"The current state of relations with neighboring Iran is regrettable. Azerbaijan is not to blame for this, it were the steps taken by the Iranian regime against the independence and statehood of Azerbaijan," he said.

Hafizoglu noted that religious issues that exist inside Iran also do not contribute to the restoration of relations between the two neighboring countries.

"There are dozens, hundreds of Azerbaijani people in Iran who have been brainwashed with religious fanaticism. They will gradually be used for certain purposes. But Iran's spy network in Azerbaijan has deeper roots. Our special services are working and exposing these people," he said.

Hafizoglu pointed out that the tension in relations between Azerbaijan and Iran began after the second Karabakh war.

"The reason lies in Iran. Normalization of relations depends not on Azerbaijan, but on Iran. Iran will carry out propaganda against Azerbaijan at any opportunity, both on the territory of our country and abroad. We are ready for such steps, and an adequate response will be given through diplomatic channels," he added.
U kraine air defences shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv on Monday night as Russia conducted massive overnight drone and missile strikes on the country.

Three civilians were killed as the Kremlins forces launched a wave of attacks on the capital and other cities.

Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night, with Ukrainian military bloggers saying they could have been triggered by a Russian warplane armed with Moscow's Kinzhal hypersonic weapons taking off.

Reuters said it was unable to independently verify that assertion.

Drone wreckage struck a two-storey apartment building in Kyiv's western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian Defence Ministry said.

Attacks involved tanks, drones, mortars, warplanes, multiple rocket launchers and surface-to-air missiles.

Long-range bombers also launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraine's southern Odesa region, authorities said.

The General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces said Moscow had launched 16 missile strikes on cities and regions including Kharkiv, Kherson, Nikolaev and Odessa. It also reported 52 instances of enemy shelling.

An apartment building was damaged by remains of a drone shot down during an overnight strike in Kyiv / REUTERS

A spokesperson said: Unfortunately, there are killed and wounded among civilians, damaged high-rise building, private residences and other civilian infrastructures.

The probability of further Russian missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains high.

At least five people were wounded in Kyiv amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure, the citys mayor said.

Ukraine said it had destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched.

Speaking to the nation to mark the anniversary of the surrender of Nazi Germany in 1945, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said the Kremlin was pursuing enslavement and destruction.

We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on 8 May that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis, he said in a video posted on Telegram.

Mr Zelensky said Europe could not let Mr Putin secure victory and that it was again time to defeat evil together to ensure that no one ever enslaves other peoples or destroys other countries again.

Separately, Moscow is preparing for Tuesday's Victory Day parade - the most important day in the calendar for Russia under Mr Putin.

But Russia has cancelled or curtailed some of the huge military parades that normally accompany Victory Day, in part due to security concerns and in part because Moscow has lost a lot of military hardware during its winter offensive in Ukraine.
A 48-year-old woman survived five days stranded in the Australian bush by drinking a bottle of wine and eating sweets.

Lillian Ip became stuck in deep bushland in Mitta Mitta, in northeastern Victoria, on April 30 after taking a wrong turn during a road trip to Lake Dartmouth.

Ms Ip, who is teetotal, spent five days in the bush before being discovered by an air police search team.

She told 9News Australia: The first thing coming in my mind, I was thinking water and a cigarette.

Thank god the policewoman had a cigarette.

I thought I was going to die there. My whole body shut down on Friday.

After four days stranded in the wilderness, Ms Ip wrote a final letter to her family to say goodbye.

If you don't find by this time I could be dead by frozen cold, it read.

I love you all. Dont cry for me.

Ms Ip was unable to walk to the nearest town due to health issues so stayed with her car, police said.

Aerial footage shows her frantically waving at a police helicopter from a dirt track, dressed in a large checkered coat.

Despite being allergic to alcohol, Ms Ip was forced to drink the bottle of wine she had bought as a gift for her mother, along with a box of juice and a lollipops.

She is now safely back at her home in Melbourne after being taken to hospital for treatment for dehydration.

Wodonga Police Station Sergeant Martin Torpey said: The only liquid Lillian, who doesn't drink, had with her was a bottle of wine she had bought as a gift for her mother so that got her through.

She used great common sense to stay with her car and not wander off into bushland, which assisted in police being able to find her.

While she couldnt move her car, she was able to use the heater overnight [to] give her some warmth.

After being lost in the bush for five days, she was extremely relieved and grateful to see us, and we were just as happy to see her.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. A total of 801 convicts have been pardoned in Azerbaijan, 463 people have been released from imprisonment following the order signed by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to pardon a number of convicted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, Trend reports.

Besides, in accordance with the order, 220 persons were released from half of the unserved part of the imprisonment, and 118 - from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, corrective labor, fines and suspended sentences).

This order is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of independent Azerbaijan, in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies.

The details of the order will be released to the media outlets.
Every year, tens of thousands of visitors come to Ottawa, and for many the highlight is the daily question period in the House of Commons  a 45-minute demonstration of democracy in action, or so they are led to anticipate.

They are misled.

There was a time when question period could be instructive and even entertaining. These days, it is a disgrace, an exhibition of egregious partisanship, a political demolition derby.

Its been at its worst in the weeks since allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian elections became the all-consuming issue on Parliament Hill. Fed a series of selective leaks by a rogue element within CSIS  a new leak almost every day now  the China spy affair dominates Question Period. At first, the Conservative opposition feigned outrage, demanding that the government root out and prosecute the disloyal public servants responsible. But as the leaks continued, the Tories changed tack. The leaker(s) became honourable, brave whistleblowers, and the Conservative outrage shifted to the alleged failure of the Trudeau Liberals to protect the security of the nation.

The Liberals make matters worse for themselves retreating behind a wall of secrecy, refusing to give straight answers that might yield useful information. (I noted with mild amusement last week that the prime minister and his public safety minister readily answered questions during scrums with reporters that they wouldnt answer in the chamber.)

Pierre Poilievre dominates Question Period the way no opposition leader has since John Diefenbaker. His prosecutorial style is as intimidating as Diefs. But hes a plastic imitation of the old Chief, who usually had a credible cause and a few established facts from which crank up his outrage, Poilievre is not so picky. Last week, he accused Trudeau of knowing for two years that Conservative MP Michael Chong and his family had been threatened in 2021 by a Chinese agent/diplomat operating from the countrys consulate in Toronto  and of failing to inform Chong and expelling the diplomat.

Certainly, cause for outrage, if true. In fact, Trudeau, Chong and Poilievre all learned of the threats at the same time  last Monday morning when the Globe and Mail published a new leak from a secret CSIS report. It turned out that CSIS had not deemed the threatening of a member of Parliament by a foreign power to be serious enough to report to the prime minister. It was an error in judgment, but perhaps not an unexpected one given the festering antipathy that exists between CSIS and the Trudeau Liberals that I wrote about two weeks ago.

Parliamentary concepts of civility and decorum succumb to sound and fury when Poilievre is on the attack. One day last week, he got away with leading his caucus in a derisive chant, Stand up! Stand up! Do your job! whenever Trudeau remained seated while various ministers non-answered for him. A couple of days later, Poilievre was caught shouting abuse at the Speaker, Anthony Rota. Youre a damn disgrace, he yelled, as Conservative members roared their approval.

In Diefenbakers day, the leader of the opposition would lead off question period with a main question and two supplementaries before yielding the floor to the leader of the third party. Poilievre has made question period his personal political theatre. One day last week, he led off with five questions, took a four-minute break, and returned to the skirmish with seven more questions.

Like it or not  and I, for one, dont like it  its become all Pierre, all the time.

Cambridge resident Geoffrey Stevens is an author and former Ottawa columnist and managing editor of the Globe and Mail and Macleans. He welcomes comments at geoffstevens40@gmail.com

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A 19-year-old man with schizophrenia sought help at four Ontario hospitals, including St. Marys General Hospital in Kitchener, in the months before he killed a random pedestrian in Orillia.

The killer, Justice Snache, was found not criminally responsible (NCR) of second-degree murder in the November 2020 unprovoked knife attack on Derek Simmerson, 34.

Mr. Snache needed help, Superior Court Justice Cary Boswell said in finding him NCR last month. He knew it. He sought it. But he did not get it, at least not the help he needed.

The case is a sad example of what happens when our mental health system fails to follow up with people who are seeking mental health assistance, as Mr. Snache did, over and over again, Snaches lawyer, Jay Herbert, said in an email to The Record.

Snache is a member of Rama First Nation.

This lack of real mental health assistance and followup in Ontario is of great concern for Indigenous people in particular, Herbert said, and should be a great concern for all Canadians so that we dont see preventable tragedies like the death of Mr. Simmerson repeated.

Snaches medical history shows he was suffering significantly with mental illness throughout 2020, Boswell said.

He appears to have been homeless and transitory through much of that time and lacking in supports, partly, I would think, due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nine months before the murder, Snache went to Toronto Western Hospital complaining of auditory hallucinations.

He was admitted and spent two days in hospital, said the judge, sitting in Barrie.

Snache was diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and substance-induced psychosis. He was prescribed a months supply of Abilify, an antipsychotic, and released from the hospital.

Two weeks later, Snache called an ambulance because he was hearing voices, Boswell said. At Brampton Civic Hospital, he was diagnosed with an unspecified psychosis.

His Abilify prescription was renewed and he was released, given the absence of concern that he was a risk to himself or others, the judge said.

One month later, on May 14, 2020, Snache went to the emergency department at St. Marys General Hospital in Kitchener.

He was vague about what brought him to the hospital, the judge said. He mentioned seeing things. No further diagnosis was made. His prescription for Abilify was extended and he was released.

(St. Marys General Hospital cant comment on specifics related to a patients history of care with the hospital due to privacy issues, spokesperson Dayna Giorgio said in an email to The Record.)

Two weeks later, on May 29, Snache went to the emergency department at Bluewater Health, a hospital in Sarnia.

He was homeless at the time and had no supports in Sarnia, Boswell said. He was vague about his health situation. He spoke about having some paranoia and homicidal ideation. He said he thought people were watching him and out to harm him.

He requested a refill of his Abilify and also asked that something else be prescribed.

After complaining about headaches, Snache underwent a CT scan, the judge said. He got a referral to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and was released.

Near the end of July 2020, Snache was apprehended by the Ontario Provincial Police while walking on the shoulder of a highway near Puslinch.

He reported that voices had told him to walk there, the judge said.

About four months later, on Nov. 19, Snache murdered Derek Simmerson, who had been walking on Coldwater Road in Orillia.

He died of multiple stab wounds, in particular one wound that penetrated his left lung and heart, the judge said.

Snache said he believed Simmerson wanted to kill him.

He thought he had to stab Mr. Simmerson to survive, Boswell said. His killing was random and senseless.

I expect that nothing I say today will make any sense of Mr. Simmersons death, nor bring much comfort to those impacted by it.

Snaches first contact with the mental health system apparently was in Ottawa in February 2019.

He was apprehended under the Mental Health Act after talking about killing himself on a train. Snache was held in a hospital overnight.

The next day he asked to be discharged, the judge said. The attending psychiatrist did not diagnose any psychosis nor assess that Mr. Snache presented a risk to himself or others. He appeared cognitively intact. He was accordingly discharged.

After being found NCR due to a mental disorder, Snache is now being held in a psychiatric hospital under the jurisdiction of the Ontario Review Board, which balances protection of the public with the need to reintegrate people into the community.

The board will likely hold a hearing soon to determine Snaches future. He could spend years in a psychiatric hospital.

Robert Mancari, partner of Simmersons mother Lynda Malec, spoke to an Orillia Today reporter about Snache.

Were glad he got the help he needed, but it cost (her) sons life to get it, he said.

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MONTREAL - When Myriam Landry started raising goats for their meat in 2018, she started small  because she had to.

She opened Chevrerie aux Volets Verts, in St-Esprit, Que., with two goats; she couldnt afford a large herd and chose animals small enough that she could handle on her own while pregnant with her third child.

I should have started bigger  but then I would have needed more money, which I didnt have, Landry, 33, said in a recent interview from her farm 50 kilometres north of Montreal.

Its really hard for young people to start  I dont even have land, I dont have tractors, even my goats (I paid for) on loans.

The rising cost of land is making it harder than ever for young farmers to enter the business. And those barriers come at a time when a growing number of older farmers are planning to leave the industry. Organizations promoting farm succession worry that if young people are unable to enter the industry, only the largest companies will endure, reducing the diversity of crops and livestock and widening the gap between Canadians and their sources of food.

The main challenge right now is really the cost of agricultural land, said Benoit Cure, co-ordinator of ARTERRE, a program that pairs aspiring farmers with landowners and farmers planning to retire.

Cure said multiple factors are contributing to rising prices, including real estate speculation  especially near Montreal suburbs  and strong competition for the best soil in a province where only around two per cent of the land is suitable for farming.

Last year, the price of agricultural land rose by 10 per cent, which isnt unusual, he said in a recent interview. Over the last 10 years, weve had annual increases of about six to 10 per cent. The average dairy farm in Quebec is now valued at almost $5 million, he said, almost double what it was in 2011.

With 20 per cent down payments usually expected for farm purchases, you have to almost be a millionaire before starting your agricultural business, Cure said. If young people cant afford to get into farming, then most rural communities risk being left with two or three large farms, he lamented.

Landry, like more than half of the aspiring farmers who have worked with ARTERRE, is renting her space. Her small operation is located on a former dairy farm thats now used for hay and cereal crops. Her farm has now grown to 40 female goats and a handful of males for breeding. Theres enough space in her barn for 60 females, she said, but she has enough demand to support 100.

And while starting small has allowed her to open a farm, it has also come with its own challenges. Goat meat, she said, is uncommon in Quebec, and financial institutions are hesitant to lend to money for an operation they arent familiar with.

Lenders, she said, dont want to finance it, because they dont know it, and that makes it really hard.

Farming has always been a capital-intensive industry  with high costs for land, equipment and inputs  but prices across Canada have risen above the revenue that can be generated from that land, said Jean-Philippe Gervais, the chief economist of Farm Credit Canada, a Crown corporation that lends to farmers.

The relationship between the price of the land and the revenue that can be expected from the land  that ratio is the highest weve ever seen, Gervais said in a recent interview. So were really at prices that are the highest weve ever seen, not just in absolute value in dollars per hectare, but also relative to what can be generated in income.

Its now rare for farmers to turn a profit from land they buy just by farming it, he said, adding that most farmers only make their money back when they sell. Large, established farms can fund the purchase of more land from the revenue generated on land thats already been paid for, he added.

But even large farms are challenged by high costs. A survey of more than 3,600 farmers released last month by Quebecs farmers association found that 11 per cent are thinking about closing over the coming year. The Union des producteurs agricoles found that costs on Quebec farms rose by an average of 17.3 per cent in 2022 while revenues rose by an average of 14.7 per cent.

A report released in early April by RBC found that 40 per cent of Canadian farm operators planned to retire over the next decade and that 66 per cent didnt have a succession plan.

Julie Bissonnette, the president of an organization that represents young Quebec farmers and promotes farm succession, says there are many young people interested in agriculture.

Sometimes you hear theres no one to take over, but its not true, there are a lot, but we need to make sure theyre able to set up, Bissonnette, with the Federation de la releve agricole du Quebec, said in a recent interview. Its so much money.

Urban sprawl and the influx of people moving to rural areas to work remotely is putting increased pressure on Quebecs arable land, Bissonnette said.

Landry, meanwhile, said shed like to see more small-time farmers because they tend to build close relationships with local residents.

We need to reconnect the public to what they do three times a day, which is eat, she said. Know where your food is coming from. If you cant grow it yourself, find someone who does it the way you would do it.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 7, 2023.

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OTTAWA - Tech giant Meta has learned from the mistakes it made blocking online news from Facebook in Australia, when it accidentally limited access to emergency services pages, a company representative said Monday.

Rachel Curran, head of public policy for Meta Canada, said the company has put together a content-blocking team that is getting ready to end the availability of news on its social media platforms Facebook and Instagram should the Liberal governments online news bill pass.

Curran told the House of Commons heritage committee the company will remove news in a way that is careful, responsible and transparent.

Its absolutely our intention to not make the same errors in Canada that we made in Australia, Curran said Monday.

In 2021, Facebook temporarily blocked Australians from sharing news stories in response to a government bill that asked Google and Facebook to contribute to journalism.

Australian news organizations could not post stories and people who tried to share existing news stories received notifications saying they were blocked from doing so. It also blocked some government communications, including messages about emergency services, and some commercial pages.

Some of the things that were mistakenly scoped in Australia, were working very hard to make sure we do not do that this time, said Curran, who was a policy director to former prime minister Stephen Harper.

She said the team is working to meet the definition of news, and not apply any potential blocks to government pages, emergency services or community organizations.

If passed, Bill C-18 would require tech giants to pay Canadian media companies for linking to or otherwise repurposing their content online.

The bill is currently at the committee stage in the Senate.

Meta has previously said it could lead the company to stop linking to news in Canada.

The company says less than three per cent of what people see in their Facebook feeds are posts with links to news articles and that many of its users believe that is already too much news.

Kevin Chan, global policy director for Meta, said to the committee that publishers benefit more from Facebook than it does from publishers. He said Meta gave free marketing to publishers that the company believes is worth about $230 million.

Liberal MP Chris Bittle said Metas appearance at the committee showed their contempt for democracy. He said Meta misled the country by saying it provided publishers free advertising.

You leave out the part that your company is engaged in monopolistic practices that takes the vast majority of ad revenue so that free advertising is worthless, said Bittle, who is parliamentary secretary to the Canadian Heritage Minister.

The Liberal government has accused Meta of intimidating Canadians as a way to retaliate over regulation.

Facebook already has deals with news organizations, and Bill C-18 will ensure these deals are more transparent, fair, and that the tech giants are accountable to Canadians, said Laura Scaffidi, press secretary to Canadian Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, in a statement.

Its not surprising, but disappointing, that Facebook continues to pull from their Australian playbook.

During the committee meeting, Liberal MP Lisa Hepfner said if journalism is blocked from Instagram and Facebook then people will be forced to seek out information elsewhere and it could lead to a rise in misinformation and disinformation.

But the tech giant said its a business decision.

We believe that news has a real social value. The problem is that it doesnt have much of an economic value to Meta. Thats the real concern with this legislation, Curran said.

So if we are being asked to compensate news publishers for material that has no economic value to us, thats where the problem is.

But News Media Canada, which advocates for the media industry, disagreed.

Meta derives real economic value from news, and they should compensate publishers for that value, so we can reinvest in high-quality, fact-based content, said Paul Deegan, president of News Media Canada, in a statement.

Real journalism by real journalists costs real money.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

 With files from The Associated Press.



Meta funds a limited number of fellowships that support emerging journalists at The Canadian Press.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The Armenian armed forces units from the positions in the direction of Digh settlement of the Gorus region shelled an excavator on Azerbaijans Lachin district at 09:15 (GMT +4), Trend reports citing the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

According to the ministry, the Azerbaijan Army Units took adequate retaliatory measures.

Previously, on May 5 the Armenian armed forces units from the positions in the direction of Digh settlement opened fire at a tractor doing work in Lachin district.
Ottawa is in advanced stages of drafting a list of entities that pose a risk to national security, and top universities are prepared to avoid working with these entities despite what could be a loss of $100 million or more in annual research funding from foreign partners.

The list will include foreign-state-connected universities, research institutes and laboratories that are believed to be at higher risk of engaging in theft, unwanted knowledge transfers and interference in research, according to government documents reviewed by the Star.

In response to the Stars request for confirmation, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) revealed for the first time that the government was working on a policy that will clarify which institutions pose a risk to national security and where research collaborations with such entities are ineligible for federal grants.

The government will publicly define key terms such as sensitive research areas, affiliations, and research-performing institutions connected to foreign actors of concern, the Monday statement said.

Together with the research community and Canadas national security agencies, the government of Canada will establish a common and comprehensive approach to confront threats and protect Canadas discoveries and innovations, it added.

Experts say the move is an extremely significant step to protect Canadas world-class research in fields such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence, but raised concerns about a dip in funding for cutting-edge projects.

Several leading universities told the Star that in complying with government policies, they will also work to strike a balance in their approach to avoid profiling researchers from certain countries.

Of countries dealing with this issue, Canada appears to be the first to confirm it will release an entity list that will serve as a blanket ban for federal funding for research with those entities, said Jeffrey Stoff, a former U.S. government analyst on technology protection and founder of the Center for Research Security & Integrity, a non-profit that supports efforts to assess risks to research security posed by China.

While the U.S. has an ever-expanding entity list of businesses, research institutions, government organizations and legal entities that are subject to U.S. trade sanctions and export controls, this list does not restrict research partnerships.

Politicians in the U.S. are starting to have these conversations, but Canada can rightfully say theyre leading the way, Stoff said. Other countries including Germany, Australia and European Union members have released guidances on research security, but they leave it to individual universities to figure out policies on their own.

The problem is that individual universities lack the capacity to map out all institutions of concern and it doesnt make sense to duplicate such efforts. It makes a lot of sense for the Canadian government to release such a list to the public, Stoff told the Star.

In February, Canadian authorities tightened their policies on bankrolling research with foreign entities, announcing that Canadas federal research granting councils would reject funding for projects with institutions that had ties to foreign governments posing a risk to national security.

Critics at the time said the new directives were too vague and researchers needed more guidance on what projects with specific international partners would be ineligible for funding.

Chad Gaffield, chief executive officer of the U15 Canada association of leading research universities, confirmed the group is expecting the government to release the list in the near future.

Gaffield also said U15 schools are prepared to avoid working with entities on the list altogether out of a shared responsibility to do research in the Canadian public interest, regardless of whether such projects would be eligible for federal grants.

Several sources with knowledge of the government effort estimate the final list will contain more than 50 entities with connections to China, Russia, North Korea and Iran.

The sources requested anonymity as they were not authorized to share information with the media. The list is being compiled with input from multiple federal agencies, Canadian researchers and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, sources said.

The ISED spokesperson confirmed the policy is being drafted in collaboration with multiple departments including national security agencies, but declined to provide details on list contents.

Canadas top 15 research universities, including the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, McGill University and the University of British Columbia, together conduct about $8.5 billion worth of research annually, hold more than 80 per cent of university research patents and receive more than 80 per cent of private research contracts in Canada.

Charmaine Dean, vice-president of research at the University of Waterloo, said she understands from government contacts that the list will be released this summer and once it is available, Waterloo is prepared to cut ties with all listed entities.

Once we have that list of institutions, it will be embedded in everything we do. Waterloo researchers are top of the line for technology research in anything that deals with autonomous vehicles, AI, cybersecurity  and these are all areas of interest to certain countries because they are prime areas of strategic growth, Dean said.

So we safeguard everything. Not just our grant applications portfolio.

Dean had previously told the Star that the University of Waterloo was ending all its research partnerships with Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei because of security concerns. Other universities then followed with statements that they would not pursue future partnerships with Huawei, but Waterloo remains the only major university to publicly say that it is extricating itself from existing contracts with Huawei.

Huawei, which is subject to Chinese laws compelling companies to assist in national intelligence work, is among the entities expected to be on the government entities list, multiple sources say.

Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, senior fellow at the Institute for Science, Society and Policy at the University of Ottawa, called the expected release of the entity list another extremely significant step toward safeguarding Canadian research security.

McCuaig-Johnston is the former executive vice-president of the Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council (NSERC), which is the largest federal funder of science and engineering research. She estimates that if Canadas top universities stop partnering with 50 entities, this would mean the loss of at least $100 million in annual funding from existing foreign partners. That would be in addition to federal funding losses.

Now its up to the government and private companies to step up and provide more funding, she told the Star.

The likely loss of funding and connections with international experts are the two main reasons why some have raised concerns about recent moves to prioritize national security interests.

Tamer Ozsu, a computer science professor at Waterloo and director of the Waterloo-Huawei Joint Innovation Lab, told the Star that while his lab will likely cease to exist, he still welcomes the government list to provide clarity to researchers.

It may mark the end of doing things in the dark, with whispers, winks and insinuations. It brings clarity for the academics and moves the discussion to another level. But I hope that there is some declaration about how they compiled this list, so it does not seem random.

However, Ozsu is worried that high-tech researchers from China in particular will feel discriminated against, and warns that dominant narratives gloss over the significance of Chinese scientists contributions to world research.

The narrative is: Canadian researchers are creating intellectual property on the public dime and giving it away to Chinese through these collaborations (or worse yet, Chinese are stealing our IP). This assumes that knowledge generation is one-directional: we create, and they steal.

It may have been the case perhaps 30 years ago, but it is not today  at least not in the subject areas I am familiar with. Certainly, there are areas where Canadian research is leading, but there are other areas where our international partners (in this case universities and companies in China) are leading. And we benefit from the collaboration by getting access to their know-how, he said.

Susan Shirk, a veteran political scientist and expert on Chinese and global relations at the University of California San Diego, said Canada has an opportunity to strike a balanced approach to research security, and warned against veering toward the direction the U.S. government has taken, with its continued Trump-era bans on the issuance of visas to Chinese students from certain universities.

My own view is that research collaborations are so valuable to everybody and attracting talent to our world-class universities is a great strength of the United States and Canada as well. Restricting too much can be counterproductive and damaging.

We have to remember that much of this knowledge is going to move around no matter what. When its published, its not a secret and not classified  Under Trump, there had been an overreaction and stigmatization of Chinese scientists.

According to a government document pertaining to the entity list seen by the Star, Canadas approach to research security would reflect an anti-racism lens and must promote inclusive environments; focus on specific threats with identifiable risk, not groups of people.

The document made it clear that grant applications with a partner on the entity list will be ineligible for federal funding. The document and government spokespersons did not specify any consequences for universities that choose to collaborate with research partners for projects that arent being reviewed for federal grants.

The Star contacted all universities of the U15 group individually to ask how they would respond to the release of an entities list.

A spokesperson for the University of Toronto said the school could not comment on the list before it is released by the government.

In an interview, Marie-Josee Hebert, vice-rector of research at the Universite de Montreal, said the university is already prepared to launch training and consultations with students and researchers as soon as the government list is released.

When asked whether the university will avoid working with entities on the list altogether, Hebert said: We are confident that we will be fully compliant. Well be looking forward to seeing the list and obviously go from there, but we will probably lean on being on the safe side.

We will move forward in a responsible manner to really balance research security but also make sure we dont develop approaches that would be detrimental to some of our community of students, whether foreign or Canadian.

Canadian partners in some cases have ties with foreign influence that arent clear. We need to make it second nature to assess, diagnose, mitigate and evaluate any remaining red flags  in a country-agnostic fashion.

Universite Laval, Western University, McMaster and McGill told the Star in statements they will adhere to government policies and review any new guidance when it becomes available. McMaster said it recently hired a director of research security, and McGill said it would continue to work with government and university partners as it has been since they first helped to set up the Universities-Government of Canada Working Group to create guidelines that best protect our researchers and our countrys science.

Dennis Molinaro, a former national security analyst with the federal government and an instructor in legal studies at Ontario Tech University, told the Star that Canadian universities have been highly attractive targets for years for foreign states intellectual-property collection because of the research projects those institutions are involved in.

Just look at the technology research they do and the talent they put out. The main ways (foreign entities) try to gain ownership of that research is through trying to entice researchers with grants and funding and offering support to commercialize research, in exchange for (intellectual property) transfers.

Molinaro stressed that such activities were mostly done out in the open and enshrined in legal contracts, taking place before concerns about national security became more of a focus in Canadian political discourse.

For example, according to research partnership contracts between UBC and Huawei obtained by the Star through a freedom of information request in 2020, UBC appeared to receive millions of dollars in research funding from Huawei, where some deals denied UBC intellectual property rights.

According to multiple contracts dated between 2014 and 2018, UBC granted Huawei all right, title and interest to intellectual property, retaining for itself only the right to use foreground intellectual property solely for the purposes of teaching and other academic and non-commercial uses.

In response to the Stars questions about its partnerships with Huawei and potential response to a government entity list, a UBC spokesperson said: UBC, like many other universities in Canada, is continuing to evaluate its position on the matter.

UBC isnt unusual for handing over intellectual property rights to foreign-linked partners. According to research from the Waterloo-based Centre for International Governance Innovation, more than half of industry-directed intellectual property that Canadian universities generate is assigned to foreign companies.

Huawei Canada has not responded to multiple requests from the Star for comment.

It is unclear how private companies and research institutions in Canada could react to the release of an entity list.

Last November, the RCMP made its first arrest in what it says is the increasingly active sphere of trade secrets stolen for the benefit of China.

Yuesheng Wang, a 35-year-old researcher with Hydro-Quebec, the provinces energy provider, was arrested following a three-month investigation and charged with alleged economic espionage.

Joanna Chiu is a B.C.-based staff reporter for the Star. She covers global and national affairs. Follow her on Twitter: @joannachiu

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BERLIN (AP)  Heavy rains in southwestern Germany have flooded roads and basements, forced train routes to close temporarily and left some residents trapped in their homes.

In Zollernalbkreis county in the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, hundreds of firefighters were on duty late Sunday after thunderstorms led to creeks bursting their banks and flooding streets, German news agency dpa reported Monday.

Several families in the town of Balingen were unable to leave their homes because floodwaters had risen around the buildings, according to dpa. They had to flee to upper floors where they waited until firefighters rescued them using ladders.

In the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, heavy rain flooded roads and caused landslides in the town of Daaden-Herdor, where about 250 members of the fire department were deployed during the night, dpa reported. No one was injured.

Smaller landslides also caused some debris to land on roads and tracks, leading to the temporary suspension of rail traffic between Daaden and Betzdorf.

In the summer of 2021, at least 134 people died in western Germany when heavy rain turned streams into raging torrents that swept away houses, roads and bridges.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Iran hanged two men Monday convicted of blasphemy, authorities said, carrying out rare death sentences for the crime as executions surge across the Islamic Republic following months of unrest.

Iran remains one of the worlds top executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights. But carrying out executions for blasphemy remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.

The two men executed, Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare, died at Arak Prison in central Iran. They had been arrested in May 2020, accused of being involved in a channel on the Telegram message app called Critique of Superstition and Religion, according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Both men faced months of solitary confinement and could not contact their families, the commission said.

It is of extreme concern to us. I dont believe this is just a one-off event, Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, a member of the Congressionally mandated commission, told The Associated Press. I think that there is a sense that Iran is increasingly desperate. And when we know authoritarian theocracies are desperate, they often turn to very, very extreme acts.

The Mizan news agency of Irans judiciary confirmed the executions, describing the two men as having insulted Islams Prophet Muhammad and promoted atheism. Mizan also accused them of burning a Quran, Islams holy book, though it wasnt clear whether the men allegedly did that or such imagery was shared in the Telegram channel.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads Iran Human Rights, decried the executions as exposing the medieval nature of Irans theocracy.

The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable, he said in a statement. The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world.

It wasnt immediately clear when Iran carried out its last execution for blasphemy. Other countries in the Middle East, like Saudi Arabia, also allow for death sentences to be imposed for blasphemy.

The streak of executions, including members of ethnic minority groups in Iran, comes as monthslong protests over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the countrys morality police have cooled. Already, at least four people charged over alleged crimes from the demonstrations have been put to death. The protests, which reportedly saw over 500 people killed and 19,000 others arrested, marked one of the biggest challenges to Irans theocracy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Kleinbaum called on the White House to condemn the execution and further sanction Iran, as well as push for Russia and China to allow the United Nations Security Council to refer Tehran to the International Criminal Court.

This level of cruelty indicates that Irans government is desperate to maintain power through force, and we condemn it, she said.

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters in Washington that the U.S. condemned the executions. These latest executions are a grave reminder of the Iranian regimes penchant for abusing and violating the human rights of the Iranian people, he said.

In 2022, Iran executed at least 582 people, up from 333 people in 2021, according to Iran Human Rights. Amnesty Internationals most-recent report on executions put Iran as the worlds second-largest executioner, behind only China, where thousands are believed to be put to death a year.

While some executions are publicized, others are not in Iran.

Many have been for drug-related offenses, but there also have been executions of a British-Iranian accused of spying and another of a Swedish-Iranian convicted of masterminding a 2018 attack on a military parade that killed at least 25.

A German-Iranian who lives in California, Jamshid Sharmahd, also faces a looming execution as tensions remain high between Tehran and the West over its accelerating nuclear program. The European Unions top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said he spoke Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian about Sharmahd and asked Iran not to execute him.

Human Rights Activists in Iran, another group monitoring the Islamic Republic, warned last week about the alarming surge in executions.

Iranian authorities have an absolute obligation to uphold international human rights standards and instead, there is ongoing impunity for grave violations of the right to life  and more, said Skylar Thompson, the head of global advocacy and accountability at the group.

___

Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.

___

Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.

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ESTE FILM brings together directors of film and theater festivals from three countries.

The ESTE FILM festival will organize in central Sibiu on Thursday and Friday the first meeting of directors of film and theater festivals from Romania, Serbia and the Republic of Moldova, called LINE-UP, where professors and students willing to launch themselves in the field are expected, informs a press release from the organizers, told Agerpres.

"LINE-UP represents an annual meeting between managers of film and theater festivals, both those with experience and those at the beginning of the journey, university professors and students willing to launch themselves in this field, with the aim of exchanging experiences and know-hows, to discuss new managerial trends, to generate innovative ideas and possible collaborations. The theme of this first edition is 'How to organize a festival: theoretical approach and practical experiences', with the participation of guests not only from Romania, but also from outside the country," the press release reads.

At the ESTE FILM festival, the following are expected: the former minister of Culture, Corina Suteu, the executive director and co-founder of the Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF), Oana Giurgiu, the program director, Miroslav Mogorovic and the artistic director, Nikolaj Nikitin from the European Film Festival Palic film (Serbia). They will be the mentors of the 12 participants selected from the three countries, following the call for enrollment in the training sessions.
The minister of Foreign Affairs, Bogdan Aurescu, received, on Monday, Garry Kasparov, the president of the Human Rights Foundation, former world chess champion and activist in the field of human rights, on the occasion of his visit to Romania, informs the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press release sent to AGERPRES.

Bogdan Aurescu and Garry Kasparov had an exchange of evaluations regarding the war of aggression launched by Russia against Ukraine, as well as regarding the options for countering the threats generated by Russia in economic and security terms, as well as those of a hybrid nature.The source adds that minister Bogdan Aurescu reiterated the firm condemnation of Russian aggression against Ukraine, the crimes committed by Russian troops and made a presentation of the multidimensional support given by our country to the neighboring state, emphasizing Romania's full solidarity with this country and the Ukrainian people. The minister of Foreign Affairs appreciated, in the context, the efforts of the Action Committee for Russia, founded by Garry Kasparov and Mikhail Khodorkovsky, against the effects of the Russian Federation's war of aggression against Ukraine and in support of the correct information of the Russian society regarding the realities on the ground.The two interlocutors expressed their deep concern regarding the serious deterioration of respect for fundamental human rights in the Russian Federation, states the MAE.In turn, Garry Kasparov presented a series of analyses and evaluations on the internal politics of the Russian Federation, with precise details on the efforts of the non-systemic opposition and Russian human rights defenders. He presented the activity of the Action Committee for Russia, including the expression of opposition to the aggression launched by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. At the same time, he highlighted the need to continue and deepen the support of the international community for the Russian civil society.This is the second meeting of the Romanian minister of Foreign Affairs with Garry Kasparov, after the one on May 5, 2022.
Alex Florin Florenta, recently appointed as prosecutor general, had a working meeting with the chief prosecutor of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO), Laura Codruta Kovesi, on Monday.

According to a press release from the General Prosecutor's Office, the discussions covered several topics, namely EPPO - Prosecutors' office attached to the High Court of Cassation and Justice (PICCJ) cooperation in order to improve the level of fraud detection against the financial interests of the EU, especially customs and VAT fraud; the possible expansion of the EPPO's powers and the future lines of action of the PICCJ, so that the powers of the two prosecutor's offices are harmonized; organizational aspects regarding EPPO activity in Romania.The EPPO delegation also included Catalin Borcoman - European prosecutor, Marius Bulancea - head of the Operations and Support Unit of the College of European Prosecutors, Dana-Manuela Ana - delegated European prosecutor, EPPO activity coordinator in Romania.Also, the head prosecutor of the International Judicial Cooperation Service, International Relations and Programs within the PICCJ, Nadina-Magdalena Spinu, was present at the meeting.
More than 500 Romanian soldiers with approximately 100 land, air and naval technical means will participate, between May 8 and 18, in the Junction Strike 23 Special Operations Forces exercise.

According to a press release from the Ministry of National Defense (MApN) sent to AGERPRES on Monday, the Junction Strike 23 (JUST 23) exercise, the largest exercise of the Special Operations Forces, is taking place, between May 8 and 18, in training facilities of the Romanian Army and in the areas near the towns of Babadag, Bacau, Campia Turzii, Constanta, Cincu, Deda, Mangalia, Maracineni, Mihail Kogalniceanu, Rastolita, Reghin, Targu-Mures, Tulcea and Ungheni.This exercise, according to the quoted source, in which more than 500 Romanian soldiers and approximately 100 land, air and naval technical means are engaged, ensures the organizational conditions for the execution of training as realistic as possible, based on a fictitious scenario, by the tactical level structures and participating operatives, in a multinational and interinstitutional format."The main purpose of this complex exercise is the certification of three targets of NATO capabilities - a maritime group of Special Operations Forces, a land group of Special Operations Forces and a detachment of Air Special Operations with a rotary wing," the press release states.Together with the Romanian soldiers from the special operations forces structures, they will train and carry out leadership-coordination actions of their own forces and approximately 100 foreign soldiers from allied countries such as Bulgaria, Poland, Portugal, Spain and the United States of America. Also, soldiers from partner countries such as Georgia, Jordan and the Republic of Moldova will participate in the activity as observers, the Ministry of Defense mentions."This important multinational training activity pursues the development of interoperability among the participating structures, through the planning and execution of missions and joint operations specific to special operations forces, the harmonization of work procedures in the multinational environment, all of which have the purpose of promoting regional security, especially in the Black Sea area," MApN explains.
Details added: first version posted on 10:10

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. A total of 801 convicts have been pardoned in Azerbaijan, 463 people have been released from imprisonment following the order signed by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to pardon a number of convicted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, Trend reports.

Besides, in accordance with the order, 220 persons were released from half of the unserved part of the imprisonment, and 118 - from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, corrective labor, fines and suspended sentences).

This order is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of independent Azerbaijan, in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies.

The details of the order will be released to the media outlets.
Payment agency authorises EUR 2.78 billion in payments under 2022 campaign.

The Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture (APIA) has authorised over EUR 2.78 billion between October 16, 2022 and May 5, 2023 in payments based on applications submitted in 2022 for aid schemes and market measures, according to APIA, told Agerpres.

Thus, EUR 2.66 billion in the 2022 campaign is made up of EUR 1.8 billion from the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF); EUR 512.24 million from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and national co-funding; EUR 137 million from the European Union Recovery Instrument (EURI), and EUR 219.73 million from the national budget.

Market measures, foreign trade, promotion of agricultural products and state aid authorised for payment worth EUR 118.69 million is covered as follows: EUR 32 million from the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF), and EUR 86.69 million from the national budget.

According to APIA, the payments under the aid schemes for the measures mentioned in Article 67 (2) are made between December 1 and June 30 of the following calendar year, in at most two instalments.
Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca received on Monday, at the Victoria Palace, the Italian Minister of Enterprises and "Made in Italy", Adolfo Urso, the agenda of the discussions being focused on Romanian-Italian bilateral economic cooperation, respectively on the decarbonization and digitalization initiatives of the European economy.

According to a Government's release, the two interlocutors appreciated the very good level of economic cooperation, constituting a central pillar of the collaboration between Romania and Italy."This dimension is complemented by the contribution of the strong communities of Romanian citizens in Italy and Italian citizens in Romania who act as a strong link between the two countries", the press release states.At the same time, the areas where there is interest and opportunities for bilateral cooperation were mentioned, in a context in which Prime Minister Ciuca emphasized the significant potential of sectors such as energy, automotive, IT, clothing."The parties also noted the convergence of positions in the discussions regarding the European industrial policy, emphasizing that the initiatives proposed and discussed in Brussels must support the industry as a basis for strengthening resilience", the cited source informs.Also, the two officials noted that the privileged link between Romania and Italy is also confirmed by the exemplary coordination of the two states within the EU and NATO, especially in the context of the need to manage common crises and challenges, especially those generated by the war aggression of the Russian Federation in Ukraine.In this context, the interlocutors presented the vision of participation in the reconstruction of Ukraine and agreed to explore the preparation of joint projects.Last but not least, the prime minister reiterated his thanks for the constant support shown by Italy both for Romania's accession to the Schengen Area and for the advancement of our country's accession process to the OECD, which will make Romania's economy a destination of increased interest for investors from all developed economies of the world.
Prime Minister Ciuca: Right-wing governments were the ones to increase Romanians' pensions the most.

The right-wing governments were the ones that increased Romanians' pensions the most, Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca said on Monday at the Congress of Liberal Seniors, told Agerpres.

"What I want to underscore is that, if we take a look on the real statistics, we would see that the right-wing governments were, actually, the ones that increased Romanians' pensions the most. This is to put an end to the left-wing myth regarding the care toward our seniors. Regardless of the political color, it is the care we must give to all those who are, today, in the position of pensioners," Ciuca stated.

The National Liberal Party (PNL) Chairman highlighted that the pension point increased since 2019, when the Liberals took over the government, and so far by more than 500 RON, from 1,265 RON to 1,785 RON.

"This means an increase of more than 41pct in almost three years, if we take into account that the last decision to increase pensions occurred through the decision assumed at the coalition level and the Government level," Ciuca added.

The Executive head pointed out that, although the PNL was not at the origin of the special pensions, it will act in solidarity to correct this imbalance in the system.

"A few words about the reforms we have to carry out in the area of special pensions and the pension system in general. There is no doubt that such a reform is necessary and, as we have promised, we will do it. I would like to underscore and draw attention to one very important thing: although the PNL was not at the origin of the special pensions, we will act in solidarity to correct this imbalance in the pension system. The solution to this state of affairs is to come up with legislative changes to correct the situation, hatred will not bring balance to the system, but concrete technical decisions. And here our standpoint is very clear. We are fighting for the implementation of the principle of contribution. This principle does not cancel out large pensions, on the contrary. But the idea of fairness in the pension system, from the PNL perspective, does not depend on the standardization of pensions, a discourse that is unfortunately still heard in the public space, but on their establishment on merit. This applies not only to special pensions, but to the entire pension system of Romania," Nicolae Ciuca conveyed.

He mentioned that, today, Romania has almost 4.8 million pensioners and all these people must be offered a fair system of reward for their work.
Prime Minister Ciuca: Without an electronic system, discussions about progressive taxation lack technical support.

Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca, the national leader of the National Liberal Party (PNL), on Monday said that without an electronic system discussions about progressive taxation are, at the moment, "without technical support" and could be resumed next year at the earliest, told Agerpres.

"The time horizon is given by the ability to introduce the electronic system inside the Ministry of Finance so that all the institutions that manage finances can have a clear picture of the constitution of the global income. Without such a system, discussions about progressive taxation are at the moment without technical support," Ciuca said before participating in a convention of Liberal seniors, when asked about the global income tax.

He added that an integrated electronic system with a coherent and complete database does not exist at the moment.

"Unfortunately, there are still institutions where this record is kept in paper books, which is why, although there are certain locations where digital transformation has been successful, it is much more than that, and the process takes time, as you know. We tried to solve the problem with the electronic invoice, from the e-business system to the government, government to government, business to business. We did the same with the radar of commodities. For all these elements, a fully integrated electronic system is needed that really gives the real picture," said Ciuca.

According to him, there is political will in this regard. "We have started this system. (...) It is started. From the discussions we had, it takes from 9 to 12 months," said Ciuca.

He added that discussions on progressive taxation could be resumed next year at the earliest.
As many as 3,463 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recorded in the May 1-7, 2023 week in Romania, with over 56,000 RT-PCR and rapid antigenic tests performed, the Health Ministry informed on Monday.

Of the new cases, 1,065 were in re-infected patients, who tested positive more than 90 days after the first time they recovered from the disease, told Agerpres.

As of May 7, 3,397,365 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania.

- Hospitalisations -

As many as 950 people with COVID-19, including 92 children, are hospitalised in Romania at specialist care facilities.

Out of the total number of hospitalised patients, 114 patients, including one child, are in intensive care.

Of the 114 patients admitted to ICU, 91 are unvaccinated against COVID-19.

- Deaths -

According to the ministry, 28 Romanians - 15 men and 13 women - infected with SARS-CoV-2 are reported dead in the week.

Deaths by age groups: two in the age group 50-59 years; one in the age group 60-69 years; 12 in the age group 70-79 years, and 13 in the age group over 80 years.

All deaths were in patients with comorbidities.

Of the deceased patients, five were vaccinated.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 68,117 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania.
The National Bank of Romania (BNR) on Monday will put into circulation for numismatic purposes a silver coin dedicated to Jacques M. Elias, the initiator of the 'Menachem H. Elias Family Foundation.'

According to a BNR release, the obverse of the coin presents a detail of the headquarters of the Romanian Academy in Bucharest, the upper part of Minerva's statue in front of the edifice, the coat of arms of Romania, the inscription 'ROMANIA' in an arc, the face value '10 LEI' and the year of issue '2023.'

The reverse depicts the portrait, the signature of Jacques M. Elias and the inscription 'JACQUES M. ELIAS.'

The silver coins, housed in transparent plastic capsules, will be accompanied by leaflets featuring a presentation of the numismatic issue, as well as by certificates of authenticity, in Romanian, English and French. Each certificate of authenticity bears the signatures of the Governor and the Chief Cashier of the National Bank of Romania, told Agerpres.

The maximum mintage is 5,000 silver coins.

The selling price for the silver coin, including the leaflet and the certificate of authenticity, is lei 490.00, VAT excluded.

The silver coins dedicated to Jacques M. Elias the initiator of the 'Menachem H. Elias Family Foundation' are legal tender on the territory of Romania.

The coins will be put into circulation, for numismatic purposes, through the regional branches of the National Bank of Romania in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Constanta, Craiova, Iasi and Timisoara.
For years, Budweiser was the King of Beers and Anheuser-Busch was the King of Marketing. Its commercials on television, radio and print were the envy of the advertising world.

Now, a single promotional initiative gone awry threatens the companys standing as a marketing machine.

Bud Light is the top-selling beer in America, but its frothy sales have taken a massive hit in the past month. A short TikTok video by transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, and a single can of beer with her face on it, has brought the once-mighty A-B marketing machine crashing to the ground.

It basically was a post from an influencer that got blown very far out of proportion. It has been adopted by a certain section of the country as the calling card for anti-trans (support). Theyre calling to boycott Bud Light, said David Steinman, vice president and executive editor of industry publication Beer Marketers Insights.

The informal boycott has been successful, slashing the brands sales by as much as 26% in a single week. If the trend continues, Bud Light could lose its position as the No. 1 beer in America, said Bump Williams of Bump Williams Consulting, which specializes in the alcoholic beverage industry.

What went wrong?

Its self-inflicted, said Robert Lachky, former chief creative officer at Anheuser-Busch.

Called One of adworlds greatest fixtures by AdAge magazine, Lachky worked on the Whassup?! and frogs campaigns, as well as the iconic Clydesdale ads of the 1990s and 2000s and Real Men of Genius, which received more awards than any other radio campaign.

Its a complete lack of corporate oversight, and its been that way since (InBev) took the company over, he said.

InBev, a Belgian-based international brewery, bought Anheuser-Busch in 2009 and forced out many executives, including Lachky, and overhauled the marketing staff.

Effectively, it took us 20 years to take Bud Light beer to the No. 1 beer in the country, and it took them one week to dismantle it, Lachky said.

Anheuser-Busch was flying high in 1979, when it launched one of the most effective and memorable taglines of all time, This Buds for you.

That campaign was followed by one hit after another. Three frogs croaking Bud, Weis and Errrrr proved to be enduringly popular  a writer at Adweek later called it one of the most iconic alcohol campaigns in advertising history.

A campaign featuring friends calling each other and saying Whassup? followed, and was an equally huge hit.

Sales soared. At its peak, in 1988, Anheuser-Busch brewed more than 50 million barrels of Bud. And when the brand slipped to No. 2 in 2001, the beer that surpassed it was Bud Light.

Bud Lights current tagline, Easy to drink, easy to enjoy was unveiled February in a commercial that aired during the 2023 Super Bowl. In an earnings call with investors and analysts on Thursday, A-B InBev chief executive officer Michel Doukeris called the tagline a strong message for Bud Light.

Perry Drake, who teaches marketing at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, disagrees.

It sounds like a tagline for a nice glass of white wine if you ask me. Not Bud Light, he said.

But that is a potential minor misstep compared to the apparent marketing faceplant of working with a transgender influencer. That problem was then compounded by the brands marketing director, who is now on a leave of absence, insinuating that Bud Light drinkers are all frat boys.

The marketing directors remarks were an unforced error, but the idea of appealing to the LGBTQ community was fine and well-intentioned, Drake said.

I think it was executed really badly. They broke one of the rules of influencer marketing, and that is to make sure your influencer aligns with your customer segment, he said.

The mistake shocked him, because the marketing people at Anheuser-Busch pride themselves for knowing their customers well and engaging with them, he said.

If you want to work with the LGBTQ community, there are ways to do that. You could release rainbow-colored cans during Pride Week, and (customers) could buy them or not, as they choose, Drake said.

Its Marketing 101, as far as Im concerned.

Pier Yvette Alsup, teaches a class in inclusive marketing strategies at Washington University. She said that the idea of using a transgender influencer to promote Bud Light was smart and forward-thinking, a way to reach new customers.

If youre trying to reach a new market or an emergent market and youre looking at whats changing in terms of demographics, you should be aware of their values, she said.

Appealing to young beer-drinkers made sense from a marketing point of view, she said.

(But) I think the timing may not have been ideal. Reading the room, we as Americans are in a hyperpolitical period, she said.

Alsup cited a 2021 survey by the Bauer Leadership Center at Washington University and Vrity in which 55% of respondents said they paid more attention to the political stands of companies than they did just one year before.

Generations X, Y and Z  people born between 1965 and 2012  were especially inclined to look at a brands values before purchasing.

Getting through the crisis and restoring some of the lost business will require a corporate mea culpa.

You go out there and you say, We dont always get things right even with the best intentions. But theres always room for improvement as a company and were always learning new things. And we want to keep the lines of communication open, Alsup said.

Drake, at UMSL, said he thought it would be best for Anheuser-Busch to keep quiet and let the controversy die out. The overall impact on the company should be minimal, he said.

In the long term, I think it will be forgotten. It will just be something that will show up when you Google the 10 worst marketing campaigns ever.
ST. LOUIS  In 1899, a few powerful men consolidated the city's streetcar lines. They made the workdays longer, fired union organizers and threatened wage cuts. They made a public feint of settling with the union, then reneged.

Employees of St. Louis Transit Co., controlling all but a few routes, voted at 2 a.m. May 8, 1900, to strike. The bosses vowed to operate the cars. Strikers and sympathizers quickly gathered along the routes leading downtown.

At 15th Street and Washington Avenue, women from the Garment Workers Union stood across the tracks. A large crowd at Sixth and Locust streets pelted streetcars with rocks and cut overhead power lines. When a police sergeant arrested one rock thrower, his friends tossed the sergeant into a mud puddle. All over town, motormen and passengers abandoned streetcars with shattered windows.

At 10:30 a.m., on Washington at 13th Street, a besieged motorman fired a pistol, wounding a teenage bystander. The boy survived and the motorman was arrested.

But the next day, Spanish-American War veteran Frank Liebrecht, 21, was shot to death during a demonstration along the Hodiamont line at Taylor Avenue. A transit employee fired the shot, but Police Chief John Campbell blamed Liebrecht for being there.

The strike blew open class resentments simmering since the brief general strike of 1877. Many blue-collar workers wore buttons saying, "I will walk until the streetcar companies settle." At the Merchants' Exchange, businessmen grumbled about sore feet. When the smaller St. Louis & Suburban line settled, everyone flocked to its cars.

St. Louis city Sheriff John Pohlman created an armed posse of more than 2,000 volunteers from the professional and upper classes. Posse members armed with shotguns rode St. Louis Transit cars and harassed the horse-drawn buses operated by strikers. Many restaurants refused to serve strikebreakers.

More than 8,000 members of 28 unions joined 3,300 strikers in parade on a rainy May 19, but Edwards Whitaker, St. Louis Transit president, refused to meet with the Railway Employees Union.

On June 10, a column of strikers was marching past posse headquarters at 510 Washington when someone threw something at a streetcar. A posse member dropped his pistol, which discharged. The posse fired a volley into the parade, killing A.E. Burkhardt, Edward Thomas and George Ryne, and wounding 14 others. Posse leaders insisted that strikers had fired first, but no one in the posse was wounded.

Reform-minded lawyer Joseph W. Folk, a future governor, brokered a deal in July, but Whitaker didn't honor it. The strike disintegrated in September, with a toll of 14 killed. It would take 18 years and another strike for streetcar workers to win union recognition.

Streetcar strike of 1900 look back 1408010 Strikers shot Vandalism during the 1900 strike An artist's rendering of a scene during the 1900 strike Mules pulling Streetcar, 1870s look back 1408010 Posse Citizens' posse Boulder on tracks Streetcar strike in 1900 ~~ VERTICAL GALLERY: HIDE TITLES, ENLARGE TYPE ~~
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijan and Lithuania enjoy political relations based in solid foundations and high-level political dialogue, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius, Trend reports.

"The Joint Declaration on the Development of Partnership signed between the presidents of the two countries in 2007 reflect the strategic nature of our cooperation.

Exchanges of visits in recent years and continuing political dialogue is important in terms of comprehensive development of friendly relations between the two countries. High-level context, especially, the official visit of President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda to Azerbaijan in May 2022 and the meeting of our leaders in the framework of the World Economic Forum earlier this year are important milestones in our relations," he said.
ST. LOUIS  The doughboys formed ranks in favor of "100 percent Americanism" and against the city of Chicago.

The veterans of World War I who created the American Legion first met on American soil in a theater downtown on May 8, 1919. The killing had ended six months before. They adopted a national constitution, promoted employment for veterans and cheered Col. Theodore Roosevelt Jr., a war hero and son of the late former president.

The 1,079 delegates gathered in the Shubert-Jefferson Theater of the Union Electric building, Olive and 12th streets. By happy coincidence, St. Louis also was hosting a raucous welcome home for the 138th Infantry Regiment. The unit had formed here and fought in the Argonne Forest in France in the last weeks of the war.

On May 9, the 138th's soldiers marched through cheering mobs and passed in front of the Shubert-Jefferson, which became a convenient reviewing stand for legion delegates who mingled with the crowds.

"What a handsome leader," a woman shouted to Sgt. Ross Koen as he led L Company down 12th (now Tucker Boulevard). Jimmie Dutton broke through the police line and hugged his marching big brother, W.B. Dutton. Choruses of church bells and locomotive whistles added to the racket.

The 138th had paid dearly for the honor  of 3,500 men who signed up, 230 were killed in combat. Accidents and wounds increased the casualty rate to almost 50 percent. The survivors stepped off trains at the Wabash station near Forest Park and marched downtown in formation with rifles, packs and helmets.

They enjoyed the welcome. But Cpl. Tom Boatwright of Herculaneum said, "I want to get back into civilian clothes."

Two months earlier, legion organizers in France had decided to reconvene here. They were inspired by the Grand Army of the Republic, the association of Union soldiers that had been so influential in the decades after the Civil War.

But their first wish was thwarted. Chanting "We want Teddy," delegates tried to draft Roosevelt Jr. for chairman. "This is going to be a short speech," Roosevelt said  and quickly declined.

Delegates then voted to boycott Chicago as long as Mayor William "Big Bill" Thompson was mayor. A neutralist early in the war, Thompson had allowed an anti-war rally in his city.

Army regulations required the 138th to reboard trains for Camp Funston, Kan. (Fort Riley), to be discharged and sent home. The legion held its first convention that November in Minneapolis, returning here for conventions in 1935, 1953 and 2003. The old UE building was demolished in 1976. The Missouri National Guard's 138th Infantry, now based in Kansas City, still has a unit here.

1919 The first meeting of the American Legion
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Newly noted for calling the St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office a rudderless ship of chaos, Circuit Judge Michael Noble appears to have emerged as the front-runner to replace outgoing top prosecutor Kimberly M. Gardner.

Under pressure from state officials aiming to remove her from office, Gardner last week submitted her resignation, effective June 1  which will allow Gov. Mike Parson to name a replacement.

Since that announcement less than one week ago, Noble reportedly has made it known to Parsons office that he is interested in taking the job, said one political source, on condition of anonymity.

Word is that hes already met with some people, and hes had some donors make calls to Parsons office, the source said.

Also mentioned as possible players by political sources were St. Louis Circuit Judge Paula Perkins Bryant; former St. Louis Circuit Judge Michael K. Mullen; former prosecutor Patrick Hamacher; private litigator Raphael O. Morris; and  most curiously  state Sen. Steven Roberts Jr.

Noble garnered headlines in late April when he lambasted Gardners professional performance, saying evidence suggested that she and an assistant prosecutor were guilty of indirect criminal contempt.

Along with delivering the ship-of-chaos description, Noble also said, It appears that Ms. Gardner has complete indifference and a conscious disregard for the judicial process.

Noble was appointed to the St. Louis Circuit Court bench in 2013 as an associate judge by Gov. Jay Nixon, then promoted to circuit judge in 2015. He served for two years as the courts drug commissioner.

A 1988 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, he served as a field artillery officer after graduation. He earned his law degree in 2004 from St. Louis University and worked as a public defender before joining private practice.

As for Roberts, he said on Monday that he was focused on wrapping up the last days of the current legislative session and also added that no one from Parsons office had approached him about it.

But if someone did approach me, its something Id definitely consider, Roberts said.

One political source said Roberts being named as the replacement seems unlikely, given the controversy that has marked his recent past.

Although he successfully moved up to the state Senate after serving in the Missouri House, Roberts has been named in civil lawsuits involving sexual-assault complaints  including one in 2017 that was in connection with a 2015 incident while he was working as a prosecutor for then-Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce.

Whomever is chosen by Parson would serve at least until Jan. 1, 2025. The first election involving the office would be the August 2024 primary, followed by the November 2024 general election.

As for the other possible contenders:

Bryant became an associate judge in 2004 and a circuit judge in 2016. Before that, she worked four years as a public defender and 11 years as an assistant circuit attorney. She has a bachelors degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a law degree from St. Louis University.

Circuit Court spokesperson Joel Currier said neither Bryant nor Noble had any comment.

Mullen, a former prosecutor, joined the St. Louis circuit court in 2001 and was the circuits presiding judge for two years. He retired earlier this year to go into private practice with Armstrong Teasdale.

Mullen could not be reached for comment.

Hamacher is a former assistant circuit attorney and ran unsuccessfully for Gardners position in 2016. A graduate of the University of Missouri law school, he now is a partner at NGK law firm.

He also has been vocal about wanting to become involved in rehabilitating the Circuit Attorneys Office, which he called a sacred place.

Recently, Hamacher said he and other former prosecutors would be willing to help out in Gardners office until things were restored to working order.

Morris has been a lawyer for 20 years and operates his own private law firm. He also is a municipal judge for Velda City and Northwoods in St. Louis County.

Currently, he is listed as the attorney for Cedric E. Dixon, who is charged with multiple felonies in the Feb. 26 hit-and-run crash that killed four people in midtown St. Louis.

On Monday, Morris said he had no comment at this time.

For now, the governors office is keeping all cards close to the vest.

Parson spokesperson Kelli Jones said Friday there is no list of potential candidates and no interviews have been conducted.

As to questions of whether the appointee would be another woman, another person of color, or another Democrat, Jones would only say, Were looking for the best candidate for the job.
The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the 1500 block of Destrehan Street just south of Hyde Park.

Police said one man was not conscious or breathing, and they requested homicide investigate. Another man was shot and taken to the hospital. His condition was not available, and police did not release any additional information.
ST. LOUIS  Police on Monday asked for help identifying two gun-wielding people caught on camera during a shooting at a crowded holiday celebration this past weekend in south St. Louis.

The photos, released by investigators, show two suspects in a shooting that happened around 7:30 p.m. Saturday when a fight broke out on a street packed with revelers for an annual Cinco de Mayo festival.

Police said they found a man and a woman, both 25, shot in the legs in the 2700 block of Cherokee Street after the incident.

That block is home to Earthbound Beer and just next to Yaquis on Cherokee.

The shooting was one of several across the St. Louis region this past weekend. One night earlier, two people were shot and killed at a bar one block away from Saturday's shooting.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-8477.
JEFFERSON CITY  A push to place the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department under state control remained in limbo Monday with five days to go in Missouris legislative session.

Senate Democrats blocked a vote on the measure last week, and the Republican Senate president on Friday acknowledged dissent within the GOP on the takeover, casting more doubt on the plans viability.

But proponents of the takeover are continuing their push for final action ahead of the Legislatures 6 p.m. Friday deadline, blasting local leadership of the police.

Rep. Brad Christ, a south St. Louis County Republican who sponsored the state takeover in the House, said Monday that passing the takeover had proven more difficult than anticipated.

Youve seen the department crumbling and the lawlessness, Christ said, adding he was surprised its been this hard to get it across the line.

Christ noted the St. Louis Police Officers Association and the Ethical Society of Police both support the plan. It easily cleared the House earlier this year but has languished in the Senate.

Im pushing extremely hard, but my hands are tied, Christ said.

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones and Republican megadonor Rex Sinquefield have been trying to torpedo the plan. Sinquefields Missouri Future group, with 18 registered lobbyists, has mobilized against the takeover.

Sinquefields involvement comes as no surprise considering he backed the move to local control of the St. Louis police in 2012.

Jones recently appeared on MSNBC and NPR to slam the bill.

This isnt about public safety, and its not about protecting our citizens or our police, Jones said on MSNBC. This is about power and control.

She said if Republicans were concerned about safety, they would pass laws to confiscate firearms from people a court deems dangerous, or universal background checks for firearm sales  or at least allow cities to enact such ordinances.

Ten people were shot and two died over the weekend in St. Louis.

Just this weekend  the first hot weekend weve had in St. Louis  theres complete lawlessness, Christ said. Whats this summer going to look like?

Sen. Nick Schroer, R-Defiance, shared an image of a person carrying a long gun in downtown St. Louis.

More people murdered over the weekend and the Wild West literally in the streets. Blood on your hands if no action taken! Schroer tweeted.

Missouri Republicans killed a plan to outlaw possession of firearms for minors earlier this year. St. Louis has an ordinance against open carry of firearms, but a city official said in 2016 it wasnt being enforced.

Jane Dueker, lobbyist for the St. Louis Police Officers Association, continued to blast Jones leadership over the weekend amid the spate of shootings.

Dueker criticized a statement by Jones that lamented a difficult weekend for the city.

We are seeing interpersonal conflicts escalate, made deadly when paired with the flood of firearms on our streets, Jones said. Gun violence harms neighborhoods and families across St. Louis, and Im keeping especially close in my prayers the youth St. Louis lost last night.

Dueker said Jones doesnt get it.

Their so called beefed-up program is failing, she said. Downplaying the chaos is gaslighting and disgusting. The mayors prayers arent working.

The state takeover plan would establish a five-member police board, with four members being appointed by the governor and Jones serving as the fifth member.

Skeptics have questioned the plan given that Kansas Citys police department is already under state control and is still grappling with high crime.

The state would also be poised to incur additional costs by assuming liability for legal claims against the police.

Senate President Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, said Republicans were unified in taking action on the special prosecutor bill had St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner not announced Thursday she planned to resign on June 1.

Theres a little more dissension on  at least on the Republican side  about the merits of the state takeover, Rowden said last week.

Nothings dead till Friday, Rowden said of the sessions last day.

The legislation is House Bill 702.
JEFFERSON CITY  A plan to stop property tax increases for Missouri seniors won final passage Monday in the Legislature on a big bipartisan vote.

Senate Bill 190, which also exempts Social Security income from the state income tax, now moves to Gov. Mike Parson for consideration.

The plan, approved 154-2, allows counties to decide whether to grant the property tax credit. It can be allowed through an ordinance or a public referendum.

If a county approves the credit, seniors who are Missouri residents and who are liable for property tax and own a home, and who are eligible for Social Security benefits, would be eligible for the tax credit.

Taxpayers would only be able to claim one primary residence for the credit.

The plan would allow all Missourians to deduct 100% of their Social Security benefits, beginning in 2024, removing limits that are currently in place. (Under existing state law, Social Security benefits are fully deductible for Missouri residents with an adjusted gross income of less than $85,000 when filing single or $100,000 if filing married and jointly.)

This is something a long time coming, said House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, in a rare speech from the House floor. He said Missouri is one of 11 states to tax Social Security benefits.

Our seniors need that safety to know that when theyre paying into the system, they should be able to get it on the back end and enjoy a secure retirement, Plocher said.

Plocher, who is considering a run for lieutenant governor, had sought a larger, $1.1 billion corporate tax cut to help bolster his record in the Legislature.

But, the Senate last week signaled that was not going to be voted on in the upper chamber.

Rep. Richard Brown, D-Kansas City, said he hears from constituents all the time about the tax on Social Security benefits.

This will be a significant help, Brown said.

Rep. Doug Clemens, D-St. Ann, said he loved the Social Security exemption, but asked if there was a way for the state to make up lost revenue.

The Social Security exemption could cost state coffers $319 million, according to a nonpartisan fiscal analysis.

Id be happy to look at that in the future, said Rep. Ben Baker, R-Neosho.

Only Democratic Reps. Ashley Bland Manlove of Kansas City and Barbara Phifer of Kirkwood voted against the tax break.

A nonpartisan fiscal analysis said the effect of the property tax freeze would vary by county.

While 1 in 10 homeowners in St. Louis were older than 65, more than 4 in 10 homeowners in Morgan County were older than 65, according to the analysis.

If approved, the county would calculate the credit for eligible seniors, which would be noted on tax bills sent by the county collector.

Both the property tax credit and the Social Security break would be in effect for the 2024 tax year.

The legislation is Senate Bill 190.
ST. LOUIS  A prominent homeless services agency has scrapped plans to set a new shelter in an old church in Carondelet, citing vigorous opposition from would-be neighbors.

Leaders at Peter & Paul Community Services had said moving their mens nighttime shelter from a church basement in Soulard to the old Sts. Mary and Joseph church on Minnesota Avenue would allow them to house 40 more men at a time, 24 hours a day, and offer more services to help them get their lives on track.

But they needed to rezone the church first  a process requiring support from a majority of the property owners in the surrounding area to complete. And in community meetings, a vocal part of that cohort lambasted the idea of putting the shelter in a working-class residential area, citing fears of criminals prowling the streets, investors fleeing and property values plummeting. It didnt end there: One of the two main candidates for alderman in the area publicly backed the opposition, and the other declined to take sides.

The spat offered the latest twist on an old problem in the regions fight against homelessness. A gusher of federal pandemic money has given advocates long-sought resources to expand services for people living on the streets: Peter & Paul got $1.8 million from the city to expand its mens shelter services beyond the 60-bed basement in Soulard. But those services have to be delivered somewhere, and residents and politicians are almost always wary of having it in their neck of the woods.

Its a tricky thing, said Deb Cottin, Peter & Pauls chief development officer. Most people want to help, but they dont want to see the people getting the help.

A similar effort by Mayor Tishaura O. Jones administration to set up intentional encampments with mental health and job training services for those resisting traditional shelters failed in 2021 after 12 aldermen declared their wards off-limits.

Its not clear where Peter & Paul will go to expand its services now, but Cottin said the organization is still looking.

Were not giving up, she said.

Nick Dunne, a spokesman for the mayors office, said Monday that the city would work with Peter & Paul to find other suitable locations.

Providing dependable 24 hour services for the Citys unhoused residents is key to moving people into permanent housing, Dunne said in a statement.
ST. LOUIS  Alderman Tom Oldenburg is set to lead a new special committee on cutting bureaucratic red tape at City Hall, a top priority of Aldermanic President Megan Green.

"I'm looking forward to making government cheaper and faster to deal with for anyone transacting business in the city," Oldenburg said in an interview.

Oldenburg said an initial target will be the city's liquor licensing process, which some business owners say takes months longer than it should.

The resolution authorizing the creation of the committee also calls for making it easier for immigrants to start businesses and streamlining the process of permitting for special events, which officials say currently requires the submission of hand-drawn maps and the payment of "arbitrary and inconsistent fees."
CLAYTON  St. Louis County health officials last week proposed new regulations that would prohibit smoking marijuana in public but stopped short of suggesting a ban on so-called pot lounges where smokers could enjoy cannabis.

The health department didnt endorse the idea either, leaving it up to county leaders to decide whether they want to create a legal framework to regulate pot lounges.

While several county residents say they arent offended by the idea of pot lounges, even those who dont partake, some are concerned about driving under the influence, and health advocates worry about yet another venue for exposure to harmful smoke.

If the county does decide to allow consumption facilities where marijuana may be smoked, then I do recommend strict regulations, said Dr. Kanika Cunningham, director of the health department, at a St. Louis County Council meeting last week. Theres a lot we would need to discuss.

When Missouri voters approved making recreational marijuana legal in November, they also legalized on-site consumption businesses. Now local governments are deciding how to regulate smoking marijuana in public and what kind of businesses theyll allow.

St. Louis County, where nearly 60% of voters approved of legalization, adjusted their zoning ordinances to accommodate the possibility of pot lounges and prepared to collect taxes on cannabis sales. Pot lounges could technically be allowed under current county zoning rules but only for marijuana that isnt smoked because the countys indoor clean air code doesnt address it, Cunningham said.

The county shouldnt allow any additional places where people can smoke or be exposed to secondhand smoke, said Laura Turner, a Missouri-based lobbyist for the American Lung Association. Marijuana smoke contains many of the same toxic chemicals as tobacco smoke, and it harms heart and lung health, she said. The association is also pushing the county to reverse smoking ban exceptions for 76 businesses where smoking tobacco indoors is allowed.

Only 100% smoke-free indoor environments can guarantee protection from toxic secondhand smoke, Turner said at a recent council meeting.

But getting businesses into empty buildings is good for the county, even if its a pot lounge, said Joy Wright, a 77-year-old Richmond Heights resident. She suffers from asthma and cant stand smoke but says the idea of a pot lounge doesnt bother her.

If you want to smoke it, thats your choice, Wright said. And theres a lot of empty buildings here that need renters.

Wright does worry about people driving under the influence. Theres a small but statistically significant increase in crash rates following recreational marijuana legalization, according to Cunningham. One study found a nearly 6% increase in crashes that resulted in injury and a 4% increase in fatal crash rates. But those results varied across different states, and more research is needed, she said.

Alcohol is by far a more dangerous substance, and its extremely dangerous when combined with another drug, including marijuana, Cunningham said.

People should be able to safely enjoy cannabis in a lounge-type setting, said Robert Fenoy, a 37-year-old Normandy resident. He doesnt use pot, but he smokes cigarillos. A place where he could go smoke with friends sounds fun, he said.

Now that pots legal, people shouldnt have to hide, Fenoy said.

Leigh Kaufman, 37, is an avid pot smoker. She has a podcast about marijuana and runs a small business selling pot-themed merchandise. Though she lives in OFallon in St. Charles County, she frequently visits friends and pot shops in St. Louis County. Marijuana helps ease her chronic anxiety and depression, and she believes pot smokers should be treated just like tobacco smokers.

This is a very tight-knit community, so we want to do things with each other, Kaufman said. We want to socialize and hang out and smoke, so itd be unfortunate if we cant have the same exemptions as cigar bars and all these places that allow tobacco. Why is that OK but this isnt?

Bob Jones agrees. Hes a 66-year-old St. Louis resident who belongs to a private cigar club. He also smokes marijuana.

I understand you dont want people smoking around kids and people who dont want to be around it, Jones said. But if this is like a private cigar club, where its a dedicated space, pot lounges could be done just as easily.

Not everyone is wild about the idea. County Councilman Mark Harder, a Republican from Ballwin, said he was opposed to legalizing recreational marijuana altogether because he doesnt approve of using drugs. He would oppose any effort to allow facilities where people could smoke on-site.

The chair of the St. Louis County Republican Party, Rene Artman, doesnt like the idea of pot lounges either, but she said its better to have regulated places for people to consume it than nothing at all. Besides, its allowed under the state constitution.

Voters said their piece, Artman said.

The bigger problem for Eric Strozewski, 49, of Granite City, is people carrying marijuana products into public places like grocery stores. Recreational marijuana has been legal in Illinois since 2019. His 8-year-old granddaughter suffers from severe allergies and asthma, and even the odor of pot can cause a fit of coughing and wheezing. The idea of a pot lounge doesnt bother him, but he wants people to keep their cannabis out of public places entirely.

Its almost like we cant take her nowhere because its everywhere since it became legal, Strozewski said. I know it helps people. Im not against people that do it, but they need to have respect for people who dont like it or cant be around it.

In south St. Louis, theres a pot lounge on Cherokee Street. The Cola Lounge owner Brennan England runs it as a private club that requires a membership or day pass. He admits his business falls in a gray area in the citys ordinances, but he believes cannabis tourism is a good source of revenue for local government. People who come for the lounge might also shop, eat and stay.

The plant historically is built around socializing and celebrating, England said. Its an opportunity not to just provide a safe space for cannabis, but to break the stigma and cultivate an entire community.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. I express hope that negotiations on a new EU-Azerbaijan agreement will be concluded soon, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis said during a press conference with his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov in Vilnius, Trend reports.

"With regard to Azerbaijans relations with the EU, I express hope that negotiations on a new EU-Azerbaijan agreement will be concluded soon. I reassured that the EU appreciates Azerbaijan's role in diversifying energy supplies to Europe," he said.

The EU and Azerbaijan are currently negotiating a new comprehensive agreement that will expand cooperation in a wide range of areas, including economic diversification, investment, trade and the full utilization of the potential of civil society, at the same time, emphasizing the importance of human rights and the rule of law.
SHREWSBURY  Catholic church leaders have been told to prepare for a variety of emotional responses to the parish reorganization plan coming later this month from the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Priests were given suggested prayers for Mass on Pentecost Sunday, May 28, when Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski will announce the All Things New plan, according to a memo sent Monday to priests, deacons and liturgical coordinators.

One of the prayers is for the grace to follow where the Spirit leads us, and not be afraid of what is new. All Mass attendees will be given a Forward in Hope prayer card on May 28, reads the memo from the Rev. Nicholas Smith, director of the Office of Sacred Worship at the archdiocese.

Rozanski will meet with the priests May 22 to go over the plans for announcing any parish changes or priest reassignments.

In June, the archdiocese will provide the parish leaders with resources including praying through disbelief, anxiety and hurt and rituals leading up to the closing of parishes, according to the memo.

The most recent draft models for All Things New released last month show 41 standalone parishes that would not share a pastor and another 137 that would join groups of two or more to share a pastor. Decisions on parish schools are expected later this year.

Rozanski is spending this month deciding on the final configuration of parishes based in part on their viability for the next 10 to 15 years, according to archdiocesan leaders.

The 18-month restructuring process was launched in 2022 to address declining numbers of Catholics attending Mass and priests to serve them.

The initiative, which is being closely watched by the more than 400,000 Catholics in the archdiocese, is expected to drastically alter the blueprint of the church in response to declining numbers of worshipers and priests.

The archdiocese comprises the city of St. Louis and 10 counties in Missouri: Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Perry, St. Charles, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, St. Louis, Warren and Washington.
BRENTWOOD  State regulators are scrutinizing Brentwoods cleanup along Deer Creek and the River Des Peres after a bridge demolition in March dumped about 70 cubic yards of construction-grade polystyrene foam into the waters.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources cited Brentwood for violating the Missouri Clean Water Law and expects to issue a ruling in coming days on the citys response, including requirements that the city provide a plan to prevent future incidents and meet regulations on debris, erosion and sediment control when working on projects along the creek.

The scrutiny comes after a Brentwood contractors demolition of the Breckenridge Industrial Court Bridge on March 2 allowed construction-grade polystyrene foam  used for construction, packaging and insulation  into Deer Creek.

The bridge demolition was part of Brentwood Bound, a massive project to mitigate future flooding of Deer Creek and redevelop the Manchester Road corridor with a large park, apartments, townhomes and offices. The contamination was first reported by the Webster-Kirkwood Times.

Brentwood, in a statement, said Friday that its contractors were unaware of the polystyrene foam in space between bridge girders because it wasnt identified in Missouri Department of Transportation records of the bridge retrieved in September ahead of the demolition.

The contractor cleaned all the debris out of both waterways by March 13, with at least 65 cubic yards removed by March 10, Brentwood communications manager Janet Levy said. Levy said contractor started cleaning March 3 but Brentwood officials were not aware of the polystyrene foam until March 7.

The city also released to the Post-Dispatch a copy of a report, submitted to the state on April 21, that outlines its response to the incident and future preventative measures. The city will require contractors to quantify the amount of debris they expect from future demolitions before beginning work, to use multiple screening measures to catch any runoff, and to use cranes or other equipment to methodically take apart structures, among other steps.

Brentwood had contracted L. Keely to demolish and replace the bridge under a $10 million contract; L. Keely had subcontracted KCI Construction to perform the demolition work.

The debris did not pose an immediate hazard. But environmentalists said the pollution should have been preventable in the first place since construction affecting streams and wetlands is regulated and requires crews to follow common procedures, like using silt fencing to capture sediment runoff.

Typically, folks that are doing demolition explore and assess and know what theyre going to be removing to prevent things like this from happening, said Peter Goode, an environmental engineer with the Washington University of St. Louis Law Schools Interdisciplinary Environmental Law Clinic. Its surprising they took down a bridge and they didnt know what they were taking down, or if they did know, they didnt do things to prevent it. Its easily preventable.

And polystyrene foam eventually breaks down into particles that are absorbed by amphibians and fish  and animals that eat the same fish.

That worries Roy Lohman, an environmental scientist and Webster Groves resident who documented the bridge demolition and pollution with an aerial drone. Lohman said he saw pieces of polystyrene foam in the water as late as mid-April and still sees individual beads now and then.

There was no way they were going to get it all, said Lohman, 23, a St. Louis University geographic information systems graduate student mapping the Deer Creek watershed. Lohman graduated Nova Southeastern University in Florida with an environmental studies degree. Its already in the Mississippi and in the Gulf (of Mexico) by now.

The consequences of some negligence like that, and inconsideration, extend far beyond their project area and communities downstream, he said. It adds up.

Lohman said he was observing erosion on the creek March 6 when he started seeing small white specks, he said.

I saw more and more and more and as I got closer saw that it was Styrofoam, he said. There was so much of it that it took up the entire creekway.

He ran home and sent out his aerial drone, eventually finding the bridge demolition, where he saw workers break down the bridge in the water while the plastic waste was visible all around.

Eventually workers put out a small net to pick up debris, he said. After he reported the incident to the state, he observed workers in a boat with pool nets. But by then it was too little, too late, he said.

Even if they didnt know what the bridge was made of, they still had plenty of opportunities to act during the hours it took to demolish the bridge, Lohman said.

The incident appeared to be the first time in recent memory that plastic from a construction project in the St. Louis area was dumped into a natural waterway. Goode said he hadnt heard of that type of contamination getting into a creek from a demolition project before.

State regulators often investigate incidents of sediment leakage from construction projects along natural waterways, but the Deer Creek incident appeared to be the first of its kind in the St. Louis area in several years, said Spencer Gould, a department spokesman.

The state Department of Natural Resources was first notified on March 7, when area residents raised concerns, Gould said. The next morning, on March 8, Brentwood contacted the state to report the plastic discharge.

The department sent investigators to inspect the area that day and again on March 9 and March 15, starting with the bridge site and then up the length of the creek from Des Peres, Gould said.

The state issued a notice of violation to Brentwood on March 29. Brentwood also violated the state Clean Water Law, the state said, by failing to notify the state within 24 hours and failing to maintain required practices for debris or hazardous materials and erosion or sediment control.

Penalties for noncompliance can include fines or legal actions revoking permits or forcing violators to take certain actions. Investigators may reinspect the area to ensure compliance, Gould said.

Editor's note: This report has been updated to correct the date Roy Lohman documented the Breckenridge Industrial Court bridge destruction and plastic foam pollution in Deer Creek.
Iran recently revealed that it had built and put three more of its Fateh-class submarines into the water and was installing equipment to make them fully operational. This comes four years after the first Fateh entered service. Since then the Iranians have been using the first Fateh a lot and finding and fixing problems. The three new ones will have far fewer problems. The Fateh class boats are 48 meters (157 feet) and displace 527 tons on the surface. Maximum depth is 250 meters. Max speeds are 20 kilometers an hour on the surface and 26 kilometers submerged. The crew of 21 can remain at sea for five weeks before food and other supplies are exhausted. Max range is 6,700 kilometers, most of it spent underwater moving at 15 kilometers an hour using a snorkel to dispel diesel fumes and bring in fresh air. Fateh has a full assortment of sonar and radar as well as a computerized fire control system. The radar is mounted on one the masts, along with the periscope and a communications mast. Weapons consist of four to six torpedoes launched from four standards (533mm) torpedo tubes. Fateh may also be able to operate the Jask-2 anti-ship missile via a torpedo tube. This has been seen in use and Iran may have concluded that the anti-ship missile was less effective than a torpedo. Iran also claims that Fateh performance in general is superior to that of Western submarines. Western navies report that there has been no evidence of this.

When first revealed in 2019 Iran described the 660 ton Fateh as a new type of submarine. Iran described this sub as capable of remaining submerged up to 200 meters (650 feet) for up to five weeks, apparently using a periscope type snorkel (a pipe type device to bring in air and expel diesel engine fumes) and fire locally built Hoveizeh cruise missiles. These had a claimed range of 1,300 kilometers were able to reach Israel). Hoveizeh was designed to be fired from a truck but Iran falsely claimed it had developed a version that can be expelled from a torpedo tube, get to the surface and get into the air. No evidence of that capability has ever been demonstrated and this is another one of those Iranian weapons that has not yet entered service.

Iran boasted that Fateh construction began in 2008 and the sub was built using Iranian resources and required 4.2 million man hours to assemble 420,000 components. The accuracy of all these details is dubious, based on past press releases for locally made weapons. However, Iran has been building small submarines for two decades and some have been detected in the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, never far from their bases. Iran has been able to use a lot of foreign submarine technology for some time. Fateh was real and did work. Considering the poor reliability and performance of locally made warships, the capabilities of Fateh and its weapons are probably more aspirational than actual.

In 2010 Iran announced that it had put four more mini-submarines into service, for a total of eleven built over the previous five years. Since 2000 Iran has, apparently with technical help from North Korea, been building mini-submarines for operations along its coasts, and throughout the Persian Gulf. The first two entered service around 2005. The Iranians said they would use the mini-subs to lay mines or launch underwater commando attacks. While the North Koreans provided some technical assistance, the Iranian sub was a local design, smaller than most North Korean mini-subs, which is a reflection of the more turbulent seas found off the Korean coast.

The first Iranian mini subs appear to have been based on the North Korean M100D, a 76 ton, 19 meter (58 foot) long boat that has a crew of four and can carry eight divers and their equipment, or several naval mines, or a torpedo. The North Koreans got the idea for the M100D when they bought the plans for a 25 ton Yugoslav mini-sub in the 1980s. Only four of those Yugoslav minis were built, apparently as experiments to develop a larger North Korean design. There are believed to be over 30 M100Ds, in addition to 23 of the 115 ton Iranian variation, called the Ghadir. These have two torpedo tubes and a crew of 18.

Building subs like this are not high tech and Iran is not the only amateur going at it. Back in 2010 a drug gang in Ecuador was caught building a 30 meter (98 feet) long submarine on the bank of a jungle river. This boat was three meters in diameter and capable of submerging to about 30 meters. The locally built boat had a periscope, conning tower and was air-conditioned. It was captured where it was being assembled, and a nearby camp, for the builders, appeared to house about fifty people. This was the first such sub to be completed, but not the first to be built. Nearly a decade earlier, Russian naval architects and engineers were discovered among those designing and building a similar, but larger, boat. However, that effort did not last, as the Russian designs were too complex and expensive. It was found easier to build semi-submersible craft. But more and more of these are being caught at sea. The 2010 sub was not military grade. It could travel submerged, but not dive deep. It was built using the same fiberglass material used for the semi-submersible craft, but was larger, and had berths for six crew. There was space for about ten tons of cocaine. It probably cost several million dollars to build and was weeks away from completion and sea trials. The drug sub was similar to the small subs being built since the 1970s for offshore oil operations and underwater tourism.

North Korea has developed several mini-sub designs, most of them available to anyone with the cash to pay. Until Fateh, the largest was the 250 ton Sang-O, which is actually a coastal sub modified for special operations. There is a crew of 19, plus either six scuba swimmer commandos or a dozen men who can go ashore in an inflatable boat. Some Sang-Os have two or four torpedo tubes. Over thirty were built, and one was captured by South Korea when it ran aground in 1996. North Korea is believed to have fitted some of the Song-Os and M100Ds with acoustic tiles, to make them more difficult to detect by sonar. This technology was popular with the Russians, and that's where the North Koreans were believed to have got the technology.

The most novel North Korean design is a submersible speedboat. This 13 meters (40 foot) boat looks like a speedboat, displaces ten tons and can carry up to eight people. It only submerges to a depth of about 4 meters. Using a snorkel apparatus, the boat could move underwater. In 1998, a South Korean destroyer sank one of these. A follow-on class displaced only five tons, and could carry six people (including one or two to run the boat). At least eight of these were believed built and construction continues in South America.

Iran also has had some Russian built Kilo class subs. This is a 30 year old design that first entered service in 1982. So far, 70 have been built, 60 are still in service and more are under construction. It may be an old design, but it is mature and has been updated with modern electronics and quieting technology (makes it more difficult to detect underwater.) Iran received three of these boats in the 1990s. The Kilos weigh 2,300 tons (surface displacement), have six torpedo tubes and a crew of 52. They can travel about 700 kilometers underwater at a quiet speed of about five kilometers an hour. Top speed underwater is 32 kilometers an hour. Kilos carry 18 torpedoes or SS-N-27 anti-ship missiles (with a range of 300 kilometers and launched underwater from the torpedo tubes.) Kilos can stay at sea 45 days at a time. It can travel at periscope depth (using a snorkel) for 12,000 kilometers at 12 kilometers an hour. The combination of quietness and cruise missiles makes Kilo very dangerous to American carriers. The Iranian Kilos are not used a lot because sanctions have made it difficult to obtain spare parts, but using locally made substitutes Iran has kept these three boats operational. Iran has announced plans to build Kilo type subs but no such activity has been detected. For the last five years, Iran has been working on the 1,200 ton Besat but it is unclear when this sub will be completed. The Fateh may be an intermediate step in attempting a larger boat like Besat that is similar to the Kilo.
By providing expertise in various aspects of digital marketing such as SEO, social media and PPC advertising, an experienced digital marketing agency can help businesses reach their target audience more effectively.

CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND / ACCESSWIRE / May 7, 2023 / In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for businesses to succeed. However, with the constant evolution of digital marketing, it can be challenging for businesses to keep up with the latest trends and techniques. According to Zib Digital, this is where partnering with a digital marketing agency can be a game-changer. Offering a range of services including SEO, PPC advertising, social media marketing and email marketing, businesses can rely on an experienced digital marketing agency like Zib to help them improve online visibility and reach their target audience effectively.



Zib Digital

As Zib Digital explains, working with a digital marketing agency can give businesses the opportunity to benefit from a team of experts with diverse skills and experience in various aspects of digital marketing including SEO services, which can help businesses optimise their website for search engines and drive more organic traffic to their site.

Partnering with a digital marketing agency can also help businesses save time and money, says Zib Digital. Instead of investing in expensive tools and resources to manage their digital marketing campaigns, businesses can rely on the agency's expertise to handle their campaigns and achieve their marketing goals.

Digital marketing agencies can provide businesses with valuable insights into their target audience's behaviour and preferences. By analysing data and metrics, agencies can help businesses develop effective marketing strategies that resonate with their target audience and drive conversions.

Partnering with a digital marketing agency can also help businesses stay ahead of the competition. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the specialists at Zib Digital keep up with the latest trends and techniques, ensuring their clients are always at the forefront of digital marketing.

As a leading agency, digital marketing is Zib's area of expertise, and the team is committed to helping businesses grow and achieve their marketing goals through a comprehensive range of digital marketing services. The team of experts has years of experience in SEO, PPC advertising, social media marketing, email marketing and more and has helped businesses across various industries achieve significant growth and success.

To learn more, visit www.zibdigital.co.nz

About Zib Digital

As a leading digital marketing agency, Zib Digital has helped grow businesses in a wide variety of industries, both in New Zealand and internationally, through clever online marketing.



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Manager

(03) 8685 9290

SOURCE: Zib Digital

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With event schedules back in full swing for 2023, corporates are reaching out to HeadBox for support, utilising the Events teams' industry knowledge and venue relationships to lock in their events.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / HeadBox, the leading online platform in Australia for event spaces and experiences, is proud to announce its continued support for large organisations with their annual events calendars. According to HeadBox, since the pandemic, many businesses are under-resourced when it comes to event planning, with EA/PAs and marketing managers taking on the responsibility of planning events, resulting in increased stress and workload.

venue hire Brisbane

The experienced Events team at HeadBox acts as an extension of these organisations, providing a comprehensive solution to event planning and management. By taking on the heavy lifting, HeadBox allows businesses to focus on their core operations while ensuring that their events are seamlessly planned and executed. With event schedules back in full swing for 2023, HeadBox has become the go-to choice for corporates looking for support with their annual events calendar.

One of the key advantages of working with HeadBox is its experienced Events team, who bring industry knowledge and venue relationships to the table. This means that businesses can take advantage of HeadBox's expertise to plan and execute events that meet their specific requirements. The team's vast network of function venues Brisbane-wide ensures that HeadBox can provide the perfect function room for any event, whether it's a product launch, conference or staff appreciation day.

HeadBox's commitment to providing quality event planning and management services has resulted in the company working on over $12M worth of corporate events, with more briefs coming in every day. As the preferred choice for corporate event planning in Brisbane, HeadBox's reputation for providing seamless event solutions has led to increased demand for their services.

Businesses can rest assured their events will be seamlessly planned and executed, ensuring that they meet their specific requirements while also saving time researching and saving money due to the Events teams' partnerships with suppliers and venue hire Brisbane-wide.

To learn more or to search for a function room Brisbane-wide, visit HeadBox online.

About HeadBox

HeadBox is Australia's fastest-growing event tech company, on a mission to reinvent the global events industry through technology. With a focus on building human-kind event tech, HeadBox is the easy way to plan meetings and events with confidence, connecting people with spaces to make brilliant things happen, everywhere.

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Five XIFAXAN (rifaximin) and TRULANCE (plecanatide) Research Posters Also to Be Presented

LAVAL, QC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE: BHC)(TSX: BHC) and its gastroenterology business, Salix Pharmaceuticals, ("Salix"), the gastroenterology (GI) business of Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) ("Bausch Health") and one of the largest specialty pharmaceutical companies in the world committed to the management and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, today will deliver a podium presentation of its research titled "Impact of Rifaximin Use During The 30-Day Post-Discharge Period Following an Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Hospitalization on Healthcare Utilization And Costs" during Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023, which will be held virtually and in-person in Chicago, IL through Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

The study led by Arun Jesudian, MD, Director of Inpatient Liver Services at NYPH/Weill Cornell, describes and compares healthcare resource utilization, including the rate of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) hospitalizations, and costs during the 30-day period following an OHE hospitalization among patients who are treated with Xifaxan versus those who are not. Results showed that initiation of Xifaxan after an OHE hospitalization resulted in reduced OHE-related hospitalizations in the 30-day period following an OHE hospitalization. Further, initiation of Xifaxan immediately upon discharge after the OHE hospitalization showed a high quality of care, with a lower rate of OHE-related hospitalizations. Additionally, reduced medical costs associated with fewer hospitalizations offset the increased pharmacy costs of Xifaxan.

"The research was designed to help establish optimal clinical practices and patient health outcomes post an OHE-related hospitalization," said Dr. Jesudian. "Adding to a growing body of evidence, the study supports the use of Xifaxan to both reduce re-hospitalizations and their associated medical costs after an initial OHE-related hospitalization."

In addition, on Sunday, May 7, lead author Robert Wong, MD, MS Clinical Associate Professor (Affiliated) of Medicine in the division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Stanford University School of Medicine and Staff Physician in the Gastroenterology Section at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, presented a poster titled "Real-World Trends in The Prevalence of Cirrhosis and Rates of Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Among Commercially Insured Adults in The United States From 2006-2020" that showed an increasing trend in the prevalence of diagnosed cirrhosis from 0.20% in 2006 to 0.45% in 2020. Among adults with cirrhosis, the rate of decompensation increased by 27% from 35.6% in 2006 to 45.2% in 2020 and the rate of OHE nearly doubled from 11.8% in 2006 to 21.4% in 2020. Based on the study findings, there were approximately 900,000 adults with cirrhosis, 450,000 with decompensated cirrhosis, and 200,000 with OHE in the US in 2020.

A complete list of research being presented by Salix at DDW 2023 on behalf of XIFAXAN (rifaximin) and TRULANCE (plecanatide), includes:

HEALTH POLICY

Wong, Robert. et al. "Real-World Trends in the Prevalence of Cirrhosis and Rates of Hepatic Encephalopathy Among Commercially Insured Adults in the United States From 2006-2020" May 7, 2023 - 12:30 -1:30 PM (CDT); Embargo Time-12:01 a.m. CDT May 7 Abstract #-3859401 / Poster #-Su1546

Jesudian, Arun. et al. "Perception of Moderate to High Risk Factors for Developing Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Across Physician Specialties in The United States" May 9, 2023 - 12:30 -1:30 PM (CDT); Embargo Time- 12:01 a.m. CDT May 9 Abstract #-3853017 / Poster #-Tu1524



XIFAXAN

Kowdley, Kris. et al. "Rifaximin Plus Lactulose Is More Efficacious Than Lactulose Alone for The Prevention of Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients With Or Without Ascites" May 7, 2023 - 12:30-1:30 PM (CDT); Embargo Time-12:01 a.m. CDT May 7 Abstract #-3862864 / Poster #-Su1548

Jesudian, Arun. et al. "Impact of Rifaximin Use During The 30-Day Post-Discharge Period Following an Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy Hospitalization on Healthcare Utilization And Costs" May 8, 2023 - 2:30-2:45 PM (CDT); Embargo Time-12:01 a.m. CDT May 8 Abstract #-3857579

Gagnon-Sanschagrin, Patrick. et al. "Long Term Care Services Use Among Medicare Patients Treated with Rifaximin for Overt Hepatic Encephalopathy" May 9, 2023 - 12:30 -1:30 PM (CDT); Embargo Time-12:01 a.m. CDT May 9 Abstract #-3862445 / Poster #-Tu1522



TRULANCE

Brenner, Darren. et al. "Plecanatide Improves Abdominal Pain, Bloating, And Straining Symptoms in Adults with Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C): A New Composite Endpoint Analysis of Two Randomized, Phase 3 Trials" May 9, 2023 - 12:30-1:30 PM (CDT); Embargo Time- 12:01 a.m. CDT May 9 Abstract #-3860993 / Poster #-Tu1617



About XIFAXAN

XIFAXAN (rifaximin) 550 mg tablets are indicated for the reduction in risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) recurrence in adults and for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

XIFAXAN is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to rifaximin, rifamycin antimicrobial agents, or any of the components in XIFAXAN. Hypersensitivity reactions have included exfoliative dermatitis, angioneurotic edema, and anaphylaxis.

Clostridium difficile -associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including XIFAXAN, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued.

-associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including XIFAXAN, and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against may need to be discontinued. There is an increased systemic exposure in patients with severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment. Caution should be exercised when administering XIFAXAN to these patients.

Caution should be exercised when concomitant use of XIFAXAN and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and/or OATPs inhibitors is needed. Concomitant administration of cyclosporine, an inhibitor of P-gp and OATPs, significantly increased the systemic exposure of rifaximin. In patients with hepatic impairment, a potential additive effect of reduced metabolism and concomitant P-gp inhibitors may further increase systemic exposure to rifaximin.

In clinical studies, the most common adverse reactions for XIFAXAN were: -HE (e10%): Peripheral edema (15%), nausea (14%), dizziness (13%), fatigue (12%), and ascites (11%) -IBS-D (e2%): Nausea (3%), ALT increased (2%)

INR changes have been reported in patients receiving rifaximin and warfarin concomitantly. Monitor INR and prothrombin time. Dose adjustment of warfarin may be required.

XIFAXAN may cause fetal harm. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Salix Pharmaceuticals at 1-800-321-4576 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information.

About TRULANCE

Trulance (plecanatide) 3 mg tablets is indicated in adults for the treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS DEHYDRATION IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Trulance is contraindicated in patients less than 6 years of age; in nonclinical studies in young juvenile mice administration of a single oral dose of plecanatide caused deaths due to dehydration. Use of Trulance should be avoided in patients 6 years to less than 18 years of age. The safety and efficacy of Trulance have not been established in pediatric patients less than 18 years of age.

Contraindications

Trulance is contraindicated in patients less than 6 years of age due to the risk of serious dehydration.

Trulance is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction.

Warnings and Precautions

Risk of Serious Dehydration in Pediatric Patients

Trulance is contraindicated in patients less than 6 years of age. The safety and effectiveness of Trulance in patients less than 18 years of age have not been established. In young juvenile mice (human age equivalent of approximately 1 month to less than 2 years), plecanatide increased fluid secretion as a consequence of stimulation of guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C), resulting in mortality in some mice within the first 24 hours, apparently due to dehydration. Due to increased intestinal expression of GC-C, patients less than 6 years of age may be more likely than older patients to develop severe diarrhea and its potentially serious consequences.

Use of Trulance should be avoided in patients 6 years to less than 18 years of age. Although there were no deaths in older juvenile mice, given the deaths in young mice and the lack of clinical safety and efficacy data in pediatric patients, use of Trulance should be avoided in patients 6 years to less than 18 years of age.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea was the most common adverse reaction in the four placebo-controlled clinical trials for CIC and IBS-C. Severe diarrhea was reported in 0.6% of Trulance-treated CIC patients, and in 1% of Trulance-treated IBS-C patients.

If severe diarrhea occurs, the health care provider should suspend dosing and rehydrate the patient.

Adverse Reactions

In the two combined CIC clinical trials, the most common adverse reaction in Trulance-treated patients (incidence e2% and greater than in the placebo group) was diarrhea (5% vs 1% placebo).

In the two combined IBS-C clinical trials, the most common adverse reaction in Trulance-treated patients (incidence e2% and greater than in the placebo group) was diarrhea (4.3% vs 1% placebo).

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Salix Pharmaceuticals at 1- 800-321-4576 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Please also see the full Prescribing Information, including BOXED Warning, for additional risk information.

About Salix

Salix Pharmaceuticals is one of the largest specialty pharmaceutical companies in the world committed to the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. For more than 30 years, Salix has licensed, developed, and marketed innovative products to improve patients' lives and arm health care providers with life-changing solutions for many chronic and debilitating conditions. Salix currently markets its product line to U.S. health care providers through an expanded sales force that focuses on gastroenterology, hepatology, pain specialists, and primary care. Salix is headquartered in Bridgewater, New Jersey. For more information about Salix, visit www.Salix.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Bausch Health

Bausch Health Companies Inc. (NYSE/TSX: BHC) is a global diversified pharmaceutical company whose mission is to improve people's lives with our health care products. We develop, manufacture and market a range of products primarily in gastroenterology, hepatology, neurology, dermatology, international pharmaceuticals, and eye health, through our controlling interest in Bausch + Lomb. With our leading durable brands, we are delivering on our commitments as we build an innovative company dedicated to advancing global health. For more information, visit www.bauschhealth.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements about the future performance of Bausch Health which may generally be identified by the use of the words "anticipates," "hopes," "expects," "intends," "plans," "should," "could," "would," "may," "believes," "subject to" and variations or similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Actual results are subject to other risks and uncertainties that relate more broadly to Bausch Health's overall business, including those more fully described in Bausch Health's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and detailed from time to time in Bausch Health's other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian Securities Administrators, which factors are incorporated herein by reference.

About Digestive Disease Week

Digestive Disease Week (DDW) is the largest international gathering of physicians, researchers and academics in the fields of gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and gastrointestinal surgery. Jointly sponsored by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), DDW is an in-person and online meeting from May 6-9, 2023. The meeting showcases more than 3,100 abstracts and hundreds of lectures on the latest advances in GI research, medicine and technology. More information can be found at www.ddw.org.

###

The XIFAXAN 550 mg product and the XIFAXAN trademark are licensed by Alfasigma S.p.A. to Salix Pharmaceuticals and its affiliates.

TRULANCE is a trademark of Salix Pharmaceuticals or its affiliates.

2023 Salix Pharmaceuticals or its affiliates.

SAL.0059.USA.23

Investor Contact:

Mark Maico

[email protected]

(877) 281-6642 (toll-free)

Media Contact:

Kevin Wiggins

[email protected]

(908) 541-3785

SOURCE: Bausch Health Companies Inc.

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DES MOINES, IA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Today, the Wells Fargo Foundation announced a $7.5 million grant to Habitat for Humanity International to help make homes more affordable and accessible for everyone. Through the 2023 Wells Fargo Builds program, the grant funding will enable local Habitat for Humanity affiliates to build and repair more than 360 homes nationwide, including accessibility modifications to meet the needs of low-income older adults and people with disabilities.

The grant was announced in Des Moines, Iowa as part of a citywide repair event with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity where roughly 130 Wells Fargo and community volunteers completed critical home repairs and updates to help up to a dozen local homeowners. In Iowa and across the U.S., roughly 20% of the population will be 65 or older by 2030. Yet more than 19 million older adults are living in homes that are in disrepair or ill-equipped to meet changing mobility needs around the home, according to Habitat for Humanity International.

As part of the week-long Wells Fargo Builds project, volunteers installed home modifications such as grab bars and wheelchair ramps for homeowners like Robert, a 66-year-old who needed to make his house more accessible for himself and two adult children who use wheelchairs. Jessi, a social worker with two young kids at home, now has an updated front porch with sturdy new steps and railings. These modifications will help prevent falls during Iowa's harsh winters and enable the homeowner to maintain the condition of her home, which is often a family's greatest asset.

"As a company, we're committed to bringing homeownership to more families so they can pass that legacy on and grow generational wealth," said Mary Mack, CEO of Consumer and Small Business Banking for Wells Fargo and Habitat for Humanity International board member. "We're proud to join Habitat for Humanity once again to create more quality, affordable and accessible homes through new construction and renovation projects to help families and older adults remain in their homes and communities they love."

"Safe and accessible housing is a key social determinant of health and helps to improve longevity and overall quality of life," said Tolli Love, chief development officer at Habitat for Humanity International. "With the support of Wells Fargo this year, we will work together to make a greater impact in communities across the country, including advancing both housing and health equity for older Americans."

For nearly three decades, Habitat for Humanity International and Wells Fargo have worked together to increase access to affordable homes and homeownership. Since 2010, Wells Fargo and the Wells Fargo Foundation have donated more than $129 million to Habitat for Humanity International and local affiliates, including grant funding for new home construction and repairs, disaster response and rebuilding efforts, and Habitat's Aging in Place program to enable people to remain in their homes as they age.

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a leading financial services company that has approximately $1.9 trillion in assets, proudly serves one in three U.S. households and more than 10% of small businesses in the U.S., and is a leading middle market banking provider in the U.S. We provide a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through our four reportable operating segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. Wells Fargo ranked No. 41 on Fortune's 2022 rankings of America's largest corporations. In the communities we serve, the company focuses its social impact on building a sustainable, inclusive future for all by supporting housing affordability, small business growth, financial health, and a low-carbon economy.

News, insights, and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

Additional information may be found at www.wellsfargo.com | Twitter: @WellsFargo

About Habitat for Humanity

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity found its earliest inspirations as a grassroots movement on an interracial community farm in south Georgia. Since its founding in 1976, the Christian housing organization has grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower.To learn more, visit habitat.org.

Wells Fargo and Habitat for Humanity to build and repair more than 360 homes nationwide to meet the needs of low-income families, older adults and people with disabilities. (Photo: Wells Fargo)





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Wells Fargo on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Wells Fargo

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/wells-fargo

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Wells Fargo

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Security Operations Platform and Managed Detection and Response Service Providers CMO Honored by CRN as a Channel Leader

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Adlumin, the security operations platform and managed detection and response (MDR) service provider keeping mid-market organizations secure, announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company has named Adlumins CMO, Stephanie Broyles, to the 2023 Women of the Channel list. Adlumin is a channel-first organization, and in only one year since joining the company, Broyles has played an integral role accelerating its channel program to obtain 300% growth across value added reseller (VAR) and managed service provider (MSP) onboarding.

Each year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry. The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all turn their unique talents toward driving success for their organizations partners and customers.

Stephanie has very quickly made an impact setting our business up for growth, and enabling our partners to grow theirs by bringing a security operations platform and services to a segment of the market that has gone underserved for too long, said Robert Johnston, CEO and cofounder of Adlumin. We are extremely proud to have Stephanie as an executive member of our team and to represent Adlumin in this years CRN Women of the Channel list.

As CMO, Stephanie has led initiatives around branding, website design, asset optimization, and the development of vertical-focused partner programs to help bring Adlumins patented, cloud-native security operations platform and MDR services to more organizations. Adlumins platform and MDR services make proactive, fully-rounded security accessible to organizations and partners of all sizes. Value-added resellers and system integrators can resell and co-deliver Adlumins MDR services platform to the end user, along with their own value-added services. In addition, using Adlumins multi-tenant platform that gives services providers unmatched visibility and command across their entire customer base, MSPs and managed security service providers (MSSPs) can deliver next-generation threat monitoring and analytics to their end customers.

We are ecstatic to announce this years honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what theyve accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next.

Stephanies recognition in this years Women of the Channel list comes on the heels of Adlumin being featured in CRNs 2023 Partner Program Guide with 5-star rating.

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, and online starting immediately at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

To learn more about Adlumins Advantage Partner Program, please visit https://adlumin.com/partners/.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by nearly 40 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

 2023 The Channel Company LLC. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

About Adlumin

Adlumin Inc. provides the enterprise-grade security operations platform and managed detection and response services that keep mid-market organizations secure. With one license and one platform, its patented technology gives organizations and solutions providers everything they need for effective threat hunting, incident response, vulnerability management, darknet exposure monitoring, compliance support and much more. www.adlumin.com

Follow Adlumin: Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005418/en/

The Channel Company Contact:

Natalie Lewis

The Channel Company

[email protected]

Adlumin Contact:

Alie Dessert

fama PR for Adlumin

[email protected]

Source: Adlumin
FORT WASHINGTON, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Newrez LLC (Newrez), a national mortgage lending and servicing organization, announced today that it will offer Freddie Mac BorrowSmart AccessSM, a mortgage program designed to assist first-time homebuyers by helping subsidize their closing costs and unlocking the dream of homeownership.

"We're thrilled to work with Freddie Mac to bring BorrowSmart Access to market," said Baron Silverstein, President of Newrez. "Our mission is to expand access to mortgage credit and advance economic opportunities for minorities and low- to moderate- income communities. With BorrowSmart Access, we're delivering on that mission by providing ways to reduce cost in the homebuying process.

BorrowSmart Access is also available through our major lending branch Caliber Home Loans, part of the Newrez Family of Companies.

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart Access

First-time home buyers will receive $3,000+ in closing cost assistance if they meet the following qualifications:

3% minimum down payment (credit may cover part or all of this)

Complete one-on-one homeownership counseling

Borrower qualifying income must be less than or equal to 140% of the median income in the area

Best of all, borrowers can utilize additional sources of funds from gifts, family, and other approved down payment assistance programs to gain even more purchasing power.

BorrowSmart Access is available in ten metropolitan statistical areas across the United States, including:

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta, Georgia

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Illinois-Indiana-Wisconsin

Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, Michigan

El Paso, Texas

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas

McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, Texas

Memphis, Tennessee-Mississippi-Arkansas

Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, Florida

Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Delaware-Maryland

St. Louis, Missouri-Illinois

At Newrez, we are committed to being the premier provider of affordable home financing solutions to help all borrowers achieve the dream of homeownership, said Cristian Correa, SVP of National Diversity Lending at Newrez. Joining forces with Freddie Mac on the BorrowSmart Access pilot is a testament to our mutual commitment to expanding access to credit and supporting underserved communities. We look forward to making a positive impact on the lives of many families across the country."

BorrowSmart Access is now available in the ten MSAs listed above. For more information on the product and how to apply, please contact a Loan Consultant or visit https://www.caliberhomeloans.com/borrowsmartaccess. In addition to BorrowSmart Access, Newrez and Caliber offer a wide variety of affordable loan programs available in todays market helping our customers make smart moves through the lifetime of their mortgage loans.

About Newrez

Newrez is a leading mortgage company that combines mortgage origination and servicing to provide a customer-first journey and helps our customers make smart moves throughout the lifetime of their mortgage loans. Differentiated by its origination platform, the Company provides customers with unparalleled lending options to purchase and refinance. Its servicing business services loans on behalf of Newrez customers and includes third-party servicing brand, Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing. Founded in 2008, Newrez is headquartered in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania and is a member of the Rithm Capital Family of Companies. Caliber Home Loans, part of the Newrez Family of Companies, is also a proven leader in the U.S. mortgage market with a diversified, customer-centric, purchase-focused platform with headquarters in Coppell, Texas.

 2023 Newrez LLC, 1100 Virginia Dr., Ste. 125, Fort Washington, PA 19034. 1-888-673-5521. NMLS #3013 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Doing business as Newrez Mortgage LLC in the state of Texas. Alaska Mortgage Lender License #AK3013. Arizona Mortgage Banker License #919777. Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection & Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Finance Lenders Law license. Massachusetts Lender #ML-3013. Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance. Licensed Mortgage Banker-NYS Banking Department. Additional licenses available at www.newrez.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005524/en/

PUBLIC RELATIONS:

Christian Wilson

[email protected]

Source: Newrez LLC
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Early childhood educators (ECEs) and assistant teachers at Selwyn Community Childcare Centre have ratified a new four-year collective agreement. The tentative deal was reached on the final night of bargaining before a strike was set to begin following months of an impasse.

These early years professionals are members of CUPE Local 2484, Torontos child care union representing more than 600 educators, cooks, and other workers at 28 centres. Staff at Selwyn were among the lowest paid, with some earning just $18 an hour when their previous contract expired.

When we launched our Raising the Floor campaign, it was precisely with these hardworking, talented, but grossly underpaid members in mind. $18 an hour isnt enough to live in this city, and its a fraction of what these critical workers are worth, explained Erin Williams, an ECE and CUPE Local 2484 President. We are fighting to raise the floor for the entire sector so every early years professional has a wage they can live on and a career with a future.

When Ontario signed on to the $10-a-day child care plan, parents breathed a sigh of relief at the promise of expanded access and affordability. The plan did not come with a commensurate focus on workers, though, and critics quickly pointed out the province could be short 8,500 ECEs by 2026.

Doug Ford can promise a daycare spot for every family that wants one and they can unveil new training strategies, but who is going to work these jobs when the wages dont reflect the skill and education required to do them? said Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario. When we invest in workers helping raise the next generation, were investing in our collective future.

ECEs across the province average just three years in the profession. Many leave citing burn out and the need for higher wages. That common pattern was playing out at Selwyn where workers were forced to take on second jobs. To create the kind of conditions necessary for workers and children to thrive, they waged a coordinated campaign, soliciting support from parents and allies in the labour movement.

Their efforts resulted in an 18 per cent raise over the life of the contract. Workers also secured additional sick days, paid professional development time, and an increase in programming time so they can create the type of play-based learning opportunities that enable all children to thrive.

Workers at 16 other centres in Toronto are entering bargaining, and thousands of new workers are joining the field across the province, said Williams. The campaign these workers waged is a model that will be copied, showing that you cant put children first if you put their workers last.

lf/cope491

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005478/en/

Jesse Mintz, CUPE Communications Representative

[email protected] | 416-704-9642

Source: Canadian Union of Public Employees
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijan calls upon the Armenian side to demonstrate good will and invest more efforts in the normalization talks in all dimensions, said Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov during a briefing with his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis in Vilnius, Trend reports.

I presented to my colleague a detailed information on the post-conflict situation in our region, Azerbaijans efforts to advance the regional peace agenda, including the latest round of negotiations in the US on draft peace agreement with Armenia. The restoration and construction work carried out in the liberated territories and opening of transportation lines and communications were in the agenda of our discussions. In general, despite the partial dynamics of bilateral context towards the normalization efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the post-conflict period, the progress achieved in all three dimensions of the normalization, namely rafting the peace treaty that will determine the basis of bilateral relations, the delimitation of the state border and the restoration of transport and communication links fell short of expectations so far, said the minister.

Bayramov said he raised the issue of landmine threat by Armenia against our country that is a clear violation of human rights and abstraction to the socio-economic development and return of forcedly expelled Azerbaijanis to their homes.

After the war, the number of landmine victims in Azerbaijan reached 299, of which 54 died. We believe that the best way forward goes through normalization of relations between the two countries based on mutual recognition and respect for each others sovereignty and territorial integrity. Azerbaijans position in this regard is clear, principled and consistent, the foreign minister concluded.
Plans to welcome more than 400 new engineers by the end of the summer and more than 200 interns in May

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sprinklr (NYSE: CXM), the unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform for modern enterprises, today announced the opening of a new office in Gurgaon, India. The new office is in the heart of Gurgaon's business district and is the global research and development (R&D) hub for Sprinklr. It is designed to provide a flexible and inclusive work environment for Sprinklr's growing team in India, and further embodies the company's values for working, living and being called The Sprinklr Way.

The new office is Sprinklrs ninth location in Asia Pacific and second in India; the other office is located in Bangalore. The company has plans to further expand its team in Gurgaon, adding more than 400 new engineers by the end of the summer. This May, Sprinklr will also be offering valuable learning and growth opportunities for more than 200 interns.

The new office is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to support employee well-being and productivity, including a modern gym. The office also offers nourishing meals throughout the day to ensure that employees have access to healthy options.

Comments on the News:

"Sprinklr is a global company with offices around the world, and India has always been a strategic market for us. Were thrilled to expand our commitment in the region with our new state-of-the-art facility designed to attract and retain top talent, while supporting our global customers, said Rohit Munjal, Vice President of Culture and Talent, India and Asia Pacific, Sprinklr. With our new office's modern amenities and flexible work arrangements, we aim to create a work environment where our employees can thrive while making our global customers happier. In this new office space, we hope employees are inspired to bring their best, authentic selves to work.

For more information on Sprinklrs culture and open roles, please visit: https://www.sprinklr.com/careers/

About Sprinklr

Sprinklr is a leading enterprise software company for all customer-facing functions. With advanced AI, Sprinklr's unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform helps companies deliver human experiences to every customer, every time, across any modern channel. Headquartered in New York City with employees around the world, Sprinklr works with more than 1,000 of the worlds most valuable enterprises  global brands like Microsoft, P&G, Samsung and more than 50% of the Fortune 100.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230507005003/en/

Press

Austin DeArman

[email protected]

Source: Sprinklr
Toyota Motors (NYSE: TM) Monday announced that the Japanese carmaker is suspending all sales and deliveries of its Yaris model in Thailand after the companys affiliate Daihatsu rigged part of the door in side-collision safety tests.

Toyotas Asia region CEO, Masahiko Maeda theorized in a press release that the problem may have occurred due to pressure on Daihatsu to shorten the development time of the vehicle. However, he added that vehicles customers were currently using were safe.

"If development had been carried out under appropriate conditions, this kind of problem would of course not have happened," Maeda said.

"I think the fact that it still happened, means there was some kind of pressure at the development site," he said, adding that the vehicle's relatively large size may have posed a challenge to Daihatsu, which specialises in the production of small cars.

The companies disclosed in April that Daihatsu rigged part of the door in side-collision safety tests carried out for some 88,000 small cars. Daihatsu said it had discovered the rigged safety test after a whistleblower report.

Around 76,000 of those vehicles were Yaris Ativs mainly bound for Thailand, Mexico and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The Gulf Cooperation Council comprises Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

Shares of TM are up 0.02% in afternoon trading on Monday.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
NEW YORK, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Accrete AI, a leading dual-use AI software company, has recently achieved a series of exciting milestones that are propelling the company to new heights. On the heels of a five-year Other Transaction-Production (OT-P) AI software licensing contract win worth tens of millions of dollars from the U.S. Department of Defense for Argus, Accrete's dual-use anomaly detection AI Agent is continuing to see growing demand. The company will be attending SOF Week 2023 as a prime defense contractor to demonstrate Argus groundbreaking new capabilities, designed to empower Special Operations communities to transcend traditional social listening tools and gain the information advantage. To reserve your spot for a live demo and to meet the Accrete team at SOF Week, visit the event page on the Accrete AI website.

As Accrete AI continues to expand the capabilities of our blockbuster Analytical AI Agent Argus, we welcome the opportunity to conduct on-site demos at SOF Week, with a particular focus on next-generation anomaly and threat detection for Social Media Intelligence and Supply Chain Risk Management, said Prashant Bhuyan, founder and CEO, Accrete AI.

Bhuyan has been invited to participate in the SOF Week 2023 Capability Accelerator Rally Point (CARP) Panel Session on May 10, which will primarily focus on "Private Equity and Venture Capital Support to Defense Start-Ups: Vignettes and Lessons Learned. The U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate is hosting the CARP, which will include a moderated panel of both Venture Capital firms and technology companies that have benefited from private investment that will discuss dual-use defense technologies, networking opportunities, and funding options. Leaders of companies specializing in national defense technology will provide their experiences working with PE and VC firms while operating in the defense sector.

The company has also recently won four Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) awards to advance Argus capabilities even further, a clear demonstration of the U.S. governments dedication to driving innovative technology that addresses the most pressing challenges facing our nation. The program is highly competitive, with only a small percentage of applicants receiving awards. The awards include one from the U.S. Army, one from the U.S. Special Operations Command, and two from the U.S. Air Force.

"We are honored by these awards and thrilled to have successfully deployed Argus into production with the DoD," said Prashant Bhuyan. Were committed to advancing Argus capabilities to bolster national security and empower our country to win in a new era of threats such as misinformation, deep fakes, and viral influence.

About Accrete AI

Accrete AI, founded in 2017, delivers configurable dual-use Analytical AI Agents that automate complex analytical work for government and enterprise customers with a focus on defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. The companys mission is to create AI so powerful that it can perform analytical work that would otherwise require an army of human experts and generate predictive insight beyond human capacity, enabling our customers to grow in previously unimaginable ways. Accrete has 128 employees globally and is headquartered in Lower Manhattan with offices in Alexandria, Va., and Wellesley, Mass. For more information, visit www.accrete.ai.

Contact: [email protected] Company: AccretePhone: (415) 640-1230 Web: www.accrete.ai

Source: Accrete AI
Golden Ocean Group Limited (the Company) advises that the 2023 Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders of the Company was held on May 8, 2023 at 14:00 hrs, at Hamilton Princess and Beach Club, 76 Pitts Bay Road, Hamilton HMCX, Bermuda. The audited consolidated financial statements for the Company for the year ended December 31, 2022 were presented to the Meeting.



In addition, the following resolutions were passed:

To set the maximum number of Directors to be not more than eight.



To resolve that vacancies in the number of Directors be designated as casual vacancies and that the Board of Directors be authorised to fill such vacancies as and when it deems fit.



To re-elect Ola Lorentzon as a Director of the Company.



To re-elect John Fredriksen as a Director of the Company



To re-elect James OShaughnessy as a Director of the Company.



To re-elect Ben Mills as a Director of the Company.



To re-appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers AS as auditors and to authorise the Directors to determine their remuneration.



To approve remuneration of the Companys Board of Directors of a total amount of fees not to exceed US$600,000 for the year ended December 31, 2023.





May 8, 2023

The Board of Directors

Golden Ocean Group Limited

Hamilton, Bermuda
EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ONWARD Medical N.V. (Euronext: ONWD), the medical technology company creating innovative therapies for people with spinal cord injury, today announces all proposed resolutions at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) were duly passed. The meeting was held this afternoon in Amsterdam, the Netherlands at 2.00 p.m. CET. Full details of the resolutions approved during the AGM can be found on IR.ONWD.com.

To learn more about ONWARD ARC Therapy and the Companys vision to restore movement, function, and independence in people with spinal cord injury, please visit ONWD.com.

About ONWARD Medical

ONWARD is a medical technology company creating innovative therapies to restore movement, function, and independence in people with spinal cord injuries. The Companys work builds on more than a decade of basic science and preclinical research conducted at the worlds leading neuroscience laboratories. ONWARD ARC Therapy, which can be delivered by implantable (ARC-IM) or external (ARC-EX) systems*, is designed to deliver targeted, programmed spinal cord stimulation to restore movement and other functions in people with spinal cord injury, ultimately improving their quality of life.

ONWARD has received eight Breakthrough Device Designations from the US FDA. ARC-EX is an external, non-invasive platform consisting of a stimulator and wireless programmer. Positive top-line data were reported in 2022 from the Companys first pivotal study, called Up-LIFT, evaluating the ability of transcutaneous ARC Therapy to improve upper extremity strength and function. The Company is now preparing marketing approval submissions for the US and Europe. ARC-IM consists of an implantable pulse generator and lead placed near the spinal cord. The Company completed the first-in-human use of the ARC-IM neurostimulator and reported positive interim clinical outcomes for ARC-IM Therapy for improved blood pressure regulation following SCI in 2022.

ONWARD is headquartered in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. It maintains a Science and Engineering Center in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has a growing US presence in Boston, Massachusetts. The Company has an academic partnership with .NeuroRestore, a collaboration between EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, and Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV). For additional information about the Company, please visit ONWD.com. To access our 2023 Financial Calendar, please visit IR.ONWD.com.

*Devices are for investigational use only

For Company Enquiries:[email protected]

For Media Enquiries: Aditi Roy, VP Communications[email protected]

For Investor Enquiries:Lara Smith Weber, CFO [email protected]

Disclaimer

Certain statements, beliefs, and opinions in this press release are forward-looking, which reflect the Companys or, as appropriate, the Company directors current expectations and projections about future events. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve several risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial effects of the plans and events described herein. A multitude of factors including, but not limited to, changes in demand, competition, and technology, can cause actual events, performance, or results to differ significantly from any anticipated development. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release regarding past trends or activities should not be taken as a representation that such trends or activities will continue in the future. As a result, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any update or revisions to any forward-looking statements in this press release as a result of any change in expectations or any change in events, conditions, assumptions, or circumstances on which these forward-looking statements are based. Neither the Company nor its advisers or representatives nor any of its subsidiary undertakings or any such persons officers or employees guarantees that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are free from errors nor does either accept any responsibility for the future accuracy of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or the actual occurrence of the forecasted developments. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

Source: ONWARD Medical
MIAMI, FL, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- President Pepe, the viral meme token that pokes fun at the political establishment, has officially launched on the Ethereum network with a fair launch event held at 5 PM EST on Monday. With its tongue-in-cheek manifesto and ambitious roadmap, President Pepe aims to build an ecosystem focused on total internet freedom, targeting the meme-loving, internet-savvy audience. The token has already gained significant attention, with a former US President following the project on Twitter.

President Pepe's utilities include plans to create a decentralized social platform that allows users to interact with each other without fear of censorship or government interference. This platform will use blockchain technology to ensure that all user data is secure and private. Additionally, President Pepe will serve as a cryptocurrency for political donations, allowing supporters to contribute to the campaign without interference from traditional financial institutions.

The project also pledges to create a secure and decentralized voting system using blockchain technology. This system will ensure that all votes are counted accurately and without interference, with potential applications in political elections and other types of voting.

Tokenomics for President Pepe ($PPepe) include a 2% tax on buys and sells, with the funds allocated to the Campaign Fund, which consists of marketing, development, and stimulus checks for the community.

The project's ambitious roadmap begins with the token's creation and deployment, marketing, and the formation of President Pepe's DAO. The next phases include team expansion, partnerships, merchandise releases, and more.

President Pepe will be available for trading on Uniswap, with Ethereum required for purchase. For more information about the project and to stay up-to-date on the latest developments, visit presidentpepe.org, follow @presidentpepe24 on Twitter, and join the official Telegram channel at t.me/presidentpepe24.

"Make Web3 Great Again!" - President Pepe

About President Pepe

President Pepe is a meme-based cryptocurrency that aims to disrupt the political establishment and make Web3 great again. With a focus on internet freedom and a decentralized ecosystem, the project targets the meme-loving, internet-savvy audience with a blend of humor and cutting-edge technology. For more information, visit presidentpepe.org.

Website | Twitter | Telegram

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency.

James Szie President Pepe Contact at PresidentPepe.org

Source: President Pepe
This exclusive recognition is awarded to Florence Jule, Fernanda Silva, and Kelsey Buller for their constant dedication to channel excellence

BURLINGTON, Mass., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acronis, a global leader in cyber protection, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named three Acronis leaders to its Women of the Channel (WOTC) list for 2023: Florence Jule, Senior Director of Americas Marketing; Fernanda Silva, Senior Manager, Channel Sales; and Kelsey Buller Partner Marketing Manager. Every year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry.



I am truly honored to be recognized for my contribution in the channel to build programs to help our partners grow, said Jule. Listening carefully to our partners and understanding their unique challenges on how to go to market, we can create tailored channel programs to help them grow. This approach allows us to build strong, collaborative relationships with our partners, based on mutual trust. Im so proud of what my peers and I have accomplished this year, and cant wait to see what the future holds for the channel and Acronis.

The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence.

Thank you to CRN and my peers for recognizing the hard work we put into our channel offerings, said Silva. Our partnerships are what make Acronis successful, and we wouldnt be where we are today without our robust and well-orchestrated channel program and partnership benefits.

The extraordinary women recognized on the 2023 CRN WOTC list go above and beyond to ensure the success of Acronis and its partners. With their strategic visions and channel advocacy, they directly impact the growth of the channel and help Acronis achieve its strong bonds with its partners. Together, these women have streamlined the managed service provider (MSP) recruitment services, transformed how Acronis conducts partner marketing, and created an innovative MSP questionnaire that expedites onboarding and assists in customizing partnerships based on personalized goals and action plans.

This recognition means a lot to me, and Im happy to accept this accolade, said Buller. I hope my efforts and successes continue to inspire future generations of women tech leaders. I thank CRN and congratulate the fellow women of the channel recognized on this renowned list.

The Acronis women leaders of the channel have successfully created a channel framework to align Acronis sales and marketing teams with each partners unique business and marketing strategy. The objective is to understand the needs of each partner to better strategize business and marketing plans, encourage feedback, increase consumption and product adoption while driving an increase in revenue.

We are ecstatic to announce this years honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what theyve accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next.

To learn more about the 2023 CRN WOTC achievement, check out our blog here: https://www.acronis.com/en-us/blog/posts/three-exceptional-acronis-women-recognized-on-crns-2023-women-of-the-channel-list

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

About Acronis

Acronis unifies data protection and cybersecurity to deliver integrated, automated cyber protection that solves the safety, accessibility, privacy, authenticity, and security (SAPAS) challenges of the modern digital world. With flexible deployment models that fit the demands of service providers and IT professionals, Acronis provides superior cyber protection for data, applications, and systems with innovative next-generation antivirus, backup, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management solutions powered by AI. With advanced anti-malware powered by cutting-edge machine intelligence and blockchain based data authentication technologies, Acronis protects any environment - from cloud to hybrid to on premises - at a low and predictable cost.

Acronis is a Swiss company, founded in Singapore. Celebrating two decades of innovation, Acronis has more than 2,000 employees in 45 locations. Acronis Cyber Protect solution is available in 26 languages in over 150 countries and is used by 18,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn , and Facebook.

 2023 The Channel Company, LLC. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Channel Company Contact:

Natalie Lewis

The Channel Company

[email protected]

Acronis Media Contact:

Karl Bateson

[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/83c08680-31ea-4aeb-9303-d7462164cb8a
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - ALX Resources Corp.(TSXV: AL) (FSE: 6LLN) (OTC: ALXEF)("ALX" or the "Company")is pleased to announce that it has granted an option to earn a 50% interest in the Hydra Lithium Project ("Hydra", or the "Project") to Forrestania Resources Limited, of West Perth, Australia ("Forrestania"). Hydra is located in the James Bay region in the Province of Quebec, Canada, which has become one of the most attractive lithium exploration districts in the world.

Details of the Option Agreement

ALX staked eight Hydra sub-projects in late 2022 and early 2023, and is currently the 100% owner of the Project. Staking and exploration costs incurred by ALX to the end of the 2023 field season are projected to total CAD $900,000. The following terms provide for Forrestania to essentially match ALX's staking and exploration commitment. To earn a 50% interest in Hydra, Forrestania has agreed to pay to ALX:

CAD $50,000 non-refundable deposit for a 60-day exclusivity and due diligence period from the effective date of the Agreement prior to closing;

CAD $350,000 in cash on closing; and

CAD $600,000 in Forrestania shares (the "Shares") within five days of closing.

During the 60-day exclusivity and due diligence period, Forrestania will provide a Notice of Meeting ahead of an Extraordinary General Meeting to seek its shareholder approval for the issuance of the Shares required to close the transaction. Following the receipt of the payments listed above, a joint venture will be formed between the parties to explore and administer the Project, with ALX acting as operator in exchange for an industry-standard administration fee. Upon the creation of the joint venture, ALX and Forrestania will each vest with a 1.50% net smelter returns royalty (or "NSR").

"ALX is pleased to welcome Forrestania as an equal partner in our exploration efforts at Hydra," said Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman of ALX. "We look forward to jointly unlocking Hydra's mineral potential in a world-class lithium district."





Sample Collection at Hydra, October 2022

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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Hydra Lithium Project claims in the James Bay Region, Quebec

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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2023 Summer/Fall Exploration Plans

Compilation of historical data related to Hydra and other areas in the region that are prospective for lithium-cesium-tantalum ("LCT") pegmatites is ongoing. ALX's work prior to the start of the 2023 prospecting program (the "Program", see ALX news release dated April 25, 2023) includes a review of historical geological, geophysical, satellite imagery and topographic data. In addition, a proprietary artificial intelligence ("A.I.") process for pegmatite detection by KorrAI of Halifax, NS is underway to prioritize target definition for the Program.

The Program is planned to commence on May 31, 2023 and will focus on systematic prospecting, geological mapping and geochemical sampling. ALX has contracted a Quebec-based geological consulting company and a helicopter for the initial phase of the program, which will be based from the town of Radisson, Quebec. During the Program, visual information will be obtained from a high-resolution drone operated by the field geologists to aid in the location and mapping of pegmatite bodies.

Forrestania shares ALX's opinion that Hydra holds potential for LCT pegmatites, supported by the encouraging exploration reports from, amongst others, the nearby Corvette Lithium Project owned by Patriot Battery Metals Inc., which has reported highly significant lithium drilling intersections during the past 12 months, including: 159.7 metres @ 1.65% Li 2 O and 86.2 metres @ 2.13% Li 2 O. ALX's Volta sub-project lies 20 kilometres to the east of the Corvette Deposit and is 1 kilometre north of the Corvette property boundary.

About Hydra

Hydra is currently 100%-owned by ALX with no applicable royalties and consists of eight sub-projects totaling 29,262 hectares (72,306 acres) known as Volta (4,751 ha.), Echo (5,566 ha.), Nike (2,462 ha.), Sprite (3,437 ha.), Cobra (4,249 ha.), Viper (1,280 ha.), Python East (3,218 hectares) and Python West (4,298 ha.), all located within a fertile lithium exploration district that hosts the James Bay, Rose and Whabouchi lithium deposits.

The ALX sub-projects were selected for staking based upon the presence of historical lithium, cesium and tantalum lake sediment anomalies and by a review of public-domain geological mapping. ALX utilized an A.I. search of Quebec government assessment files that found the Python West lithium showing in a pegmatite discovered during a historical uranium exploration program. A 2008 sample from the pegmatite returned a value of 330 parts per million lithium.

To view maps and more information on Hydra, visit our website at: https://alxresources.com/hydra-lithium/.

NationaI Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by John Charlton, P.Geo., a consultant to ALX, who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101.

Management cautions that historical results were collected and reported by operators unrelated to ALX and have not been verified nor confirmed by its Qualified Person, but they create a scientific basis for ongoing work in the Hydra project area. Management further cautions that historical results or discoveries on adjacent or nearby mineral properties are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be achieved on ALX's mineral properties.

About ALX

ALX is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "AL", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "6LLN" and in the United States OTC market under the symbol "ALXEF".

ALX's mandate is to provide shareholders with multiple opportunities for discovery by exploring a portfolio of prospective mineral properties, which include uranium, lithium, nickel-copper-cobalt and gold projects. The Company uses the latest exploration technologies and holds interests in over 220,000 hectares of prospective lands in Saskatchewan, a stable Canadian jurisdiction that hosts the highest-grade uranium mines in the world, a producing gold mine, and production from base metals mines, both current and historical.

ALX's uranium holdings in northern Saskatchewan include 100% interests in the Gibbons Creek Uranium Project, the Sabre Uranium Project and the Javelin and McKenzie Lake Uranium Projects, a 40% interest in the Black Lake Uranium Project (a joint venture with Uranium Energy Corporation and Orano Canada Inc.), and a 20% interest in the Hook-Carter Uranium Project, located within the uranium-rich Patterson Lake Corridor, with Denison Mines Corp. (80% interest) as operator of exploration since 2016.

ALX owns 100% interests in Canadian lithium exploration properties staked in 2022 and 2023 known as the Hydra Lithium Project, located in the James Bay region of northern Quebec, the Crystal Lithium and Reindeer Lithium Projects in northern Saskatchewan, and the Anchor Lithium Project, located in Nova Scotia.

ALX also owns 100% interests in the Firebird Nickel Project (now under option to Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Inc., who can earn up to an 80% interest), the Flying Vee Nickel/Gold and Sceptre Gold projects, and can earn up to an 80% interest in the Alligator Lake Gold Project, all located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. ALX owns, or can earn, up to 100% interests in the Electra Nickel Project and the Cannon Copper Project located in historic mining districts of Ontario, Canada, the Vixen Gold Project (now under option to First Mining Gold Corp., who can earn up to a 100% interest in two stages), and in the Draco VMS Project in Norway.

For more information about the Company, please visit the ALX corporate website at www.alxresources.com or contact Roger Leschuk, Manager, Corporate Communications at: PH: 604.629.0293 or Toll-Free: 866.629.8368, or by email: [email protected].

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of ALX Resources Corp.

"Warren Stanyer"

Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman

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: the proposed option earn-in transaction between Forrestania Resources Limited and ALX, ALX's 2023 exploration plans at the Hydra Lithium Project, ALX's ability to continue to expend funds at that project, and contributions from Forrestania to fund exploration at the Hydra Lithium Project assuming closing of the option transaction. 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. Risks and uncertainties include that ALX may not be able to fully finance exploration on our exploration projects, individually or with the assistance of Forrestania, including drilling; our initial findings at our exploration projects may prove to be unworthy of further expenditures and that the potential of the property may be different than expected; commodity prices may not support further exploration expenditures; exploration programs may be delayed or changed due to any delays experienced in consultation and engagement activities with First Nations and Metis communities and the results of such consultations; ALX and Forrestania may not complete the transaction for any reason, including that Forrestania shareholders may not approve the transaction, and economic, competitive, governmental, societal, public health, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and share price. Even if we explore and develop our projects, and even if lithium, uranium, nickel, copper, gold or other metals or minerals are discovered in quantity, ALX's projects may not be commercially viable. Additional risk factors are discussed in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the Year Ended December 31, 2022, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, we will not update these forward-looking statement risk factors.

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/165078
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc.(CSE: VEGI) (OTCQB: VGGIF) (FSE: 77i) ("Boosh" or the "Company") a premier plant-based brand in the "better for you" food sector announced today it has begun production of 1.5 oz bags of Beanfields Chips to open up sales to the US hospitality sector. Beanfields Snacks, the primary asset of Boosh Plant Based Brands, represents a significant growth opportunity in the salty snacks sector.

Prior to Boosh Plant-based Brands acquiring the asset Beanfields Chips, the previous owners had made inroads into the hospitality sector with accounts at Universities, Corporate offices and numerous independent quick serve and convenience stores representing annual sales of $1.7M CAN.

Bean Fields 1.5 oz Single Serving Bags



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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CEO Connie Marples explains, "Over the past year our focus has been on the retail grocery industry to try to meet the high demands for consumers, but we have decided it is time to start building the hospitality business back up by allocating approximately 15% of each production run of chips with the individual 1.5 oz bags. Now more than ever consumers are looking for quick single serve snacks whether they are at work, school or on a road trip. We want to reach those customers to assist in growing the brand to new customers through new sales channels."

According to Future Market Insights, Inc. The global better for you snacks market is expected to witness growth at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2022 to 2032 and reach a valuation of US$ 70 Bn by 2032. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/better-snacks-market-expected-surpass-114100307.html Snacks that are low in carbohydrates and cholesterol, as well as are gut-friendly, are becoming increasingly popular globally. Consumers are preferring innovative snacks that are made from natural ingredients and do not contain any chemical additives. In order to gain brand loyalty, key companies are developing new products that are non-GMO and vegan.

Beanfields chips are vegan, non-GMO, gluten free, top 8 allergen free chips made from beans, rice, oil and spices and contain plant protein and fibre.

Connie Marples

Founder/CEO

[email protected]

Telephone: 778 840 1700

www.Booshfood.com

About Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc.:



Boosh Plant-Based Brands Inc., through its wholly owned subsidiary, Boosh Food (www.booshfood.com) offers high quality, non-GMO, gluten free, 100% plant-based nutritional comfort foods for the whole family. Through a separate subsidiary, Beautiful Beanfields, (www.beanfields.com) the Company owns Beanfields, a plant-based chip brand sold in over 7,000 stores throughout North America. Boosh, good for you and good for planet earth.

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. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, the Company's expectations concerning the size of the Financing, its ability to close the Financing in whole or in part or at all and its plan for the proceeds of the Financing. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. 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 statements 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.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165115
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Centurion Minerals Ltd. (TSXV:CTN) ("Centurion", or the "Company") wishes to provide an update of the Casa Berardi West gold project, and financing as follows:

Casa Berardi West Gold Project Acquisition: Proceeding with its original focus of acquiring and advancing gold exploration projects, the Company executed a previously announced Option Agreement to acquire a 100% interest in the Casa Berardi West Gold Project (the "Project"). The Project consists of 3 claim groups comprising a total of 4,700 hectares, strategically located northeast of Cochrane, Ontario, Canada in the mineral endowed central north Abitibi greenstone belt.

Highlights:

Historical exploration includes more than 70 RC drill holes returning encouraging results that include 18 samples greater than 1,000 ppb (1 g/t) gold and the highest returning 38,000 ppb (38g/t) gold; Situated along structural corridors hosting world-class discoveries, operating mines, and significant past-producing operations; Located near historical production from Normetal Mines as well as currently active, Amex Exploration Inc. which is undertaking one of the largest drilling programs in Canada on its Perron project. (Amex Exploration Highlights Accomplishments From 2022 And Reviews Exploration Plans for 2023); Numerous iron formations and shear zones proximal to a late granitic pluton has gold deposit analogies to the Musselwhite gold mine in northern Ontario; and Excellent access and infrastructure.

An NI 43-101 Technical Report outlining the Project's historical activities has been completed and can be found on the Company's website. Project overview link (Casa Berardi West - Centurion Minerals Ltd)

2023 Next Steps: Centurion has received conditional approval from the TSXV for this transaction and subject final approval, immediate exploration efforts will be focused on: (i) compilation of all historical data; (ii) ground geophysics over priority targets; and (iii) an initial drill program covering identified targets.

Private Placement

As previously announced, the Company is arranging a non-brokered private placement financing for up to $750,000 priced at $0.02 per Unit. Each Unit will consist of one common share and one-half share purchase warrant. Each full warrant shall have a term of 24 months commencing on the Closing Date and shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share at a price of $0.05 during the first year and $0.10 during the second year. Up to $150,000 of the $750,000 will consist of a Flow-through component. The Flow-through portion will consist of a Share only.

A minimum of 25% of the proceeds from the financing shall be used for property payments and furthering exploration activities on the Project, up to 15% for non-arm's length payments and 10% for corporate communications. The balance shall be used for working capital and general corporate activities. Closing will be subject to TSX-V approval, and any shares issued will be subject to a four-month hold period.

Qualified Person

Mike Kilbourne, P. Geo, an independent qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.

About Centurion Minerals Ltd.

Centurion Minerals Ltd. is a Canadian-based company with a focus on mineral asset exploration and development in the Americas. Centurion has executed an Option Agreement enabling it to earn a 100% interest in the Casa Berardi West Gold Project which is located in the prolific gold-producing, greenstone belt of the central Abitibi Subprovince of north-eastern Ontario. The Agreement has received conditional Exchange approval.

"David G. Tafel"

President and CEO

For Further Information Contact:

David Tafel

604-484-2161

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things, the timing of final approval of the Project; the timing, terms and completion of any proposed private placement; the expected use of proceeds from the financing; the Company's undertaking of initial exploration on the Project; and the Company's intention to exercise its option to purchase a 100% interest in the Project.

These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that the Company will not receive final approval on the Property acquisition; that the Company will not obtain the requisite approvals, to complete the proposed private placement; the inability of the Company to raise capital on acceptable terms, or at all; unanticipated costs; adverse changes in legislation; that the Company will not undertake initial exploration on the Project within the timeframe anticipated or at all; market uncertainty; that the Company's operations, business, personnel or financial condition is adversely impacted by COVID-19 or the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe; and the risk that Company is not able to exercise its option to purchase a 100% interest in the Project.

In making the forward looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation; that the Company will receive all requisite approvals on the Property acquisition, and the proposed private placement; that the Company will be able to raise capital on acceptable terms; that the Company will undertake exploration on the Project, as anticipated; that the Company will retain the key personnel required to complete its business objectives; that there will be no adverse changes in legislation; and that the Company will have the resources required to exercise its option to acquire the Project.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement or forward-looking information disclosed herein, except in accordance with applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165258
Details added: first version posted on 10:56

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The formation and rapid development of professional media, just like all other spheres, in Azerbaijan, are linked with the name of the great leader Heydar Aliyev, Chairman of the Audiovisual Council of Azerbaijan Ismat Sattarov said, Trend reports.

Sattarov made the remark at a conference themed "Policy of the national leader Heydar Aliyev in the Field of Media and Modern Azerbaijani Media", dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev and organized by the Media Development Agency and Audiovisual Council of Azerbaijan.

If we consider the first period of the leadership of the country by the great leader, we can see what unprecedented efforts he made in this area in Azerbaijan during the Soviet period," the official reminded.

He noted that thanks to the efforts of national leader Heydar Aliyev, the material and technical base of the media has been improved, and an infrastructure based on new technologies has been created for the normal functioning of existing media.

Sattarov stressed that the removal of artificial barriers hindering the development of a free press, the improvement of legislation in this area, the strengthening of the material and technical base of the media, and the creation of such a tradition as regular meetings with media professionals are vivid examples of the importance that the great leader attached to the free word and media workers.

The councils chairman also said that a modern and strong media policy based on the principles of freedom of speech laid down by the great leader is successfully continued by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

"In recent years, the necessary measures have been taken to improve the legislative framework for activities in the field of media, develop communication between the state and the media, strengthen the economic independence of the media, and create international media platforms, Sattarov noted. Modern media in Azerbaijan are making every effort to promote such ideas as statehood, Azerbaijanism, adherence to traditions and national identity, as well as modernity, innovation, inherited from the great leader.

Therefore, we can say with confidence that the media sector is one of the fastest growing areas of activity in the country, which is being improved day by day with the introduction of information and communication technologies, he pointed out.

Our great leader, the founder of modern independent Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev is at the same time the creator and source of inspiration for the media, which are an important part of our society, constantly searching for innovations," Sattarov added.
Glen Ellyn, Illinois--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Providing students increased access to seamless transfer opportunities alongside essential support resources for student success, College of DuPage and Arizona State University recently announced a Universal Articulation agreement.

The partnership reaffirms the commitment of both institutions to supporting academic preparedness and growing an ecosystem of transfer student success. Through this collaboration, students can expect a seamless transition to the university and receive the support essential for student success.

Through the College of DuPage MyPath2ASU transfer experience, students benefit from end-to-end learner navigation through course-by-course guided pathways, assistance in selecting courses that apply to their associate and ASU bachelor's degree, guaranteed general admission to ASU, and admission into MyPath2ASU major choice if all requirements are met. Students can also track their degree progress to minimize loss of credit and receive personalized ASU communications to prepare academically and build a connection to ASU.

"This partnership marks another milestone for College of DuPage as we welcome ASU to our long list of academic partners," said COD President Dr. Brian Caputo. "ASU's MyPath2ASU transfer experience is a wonderful complement to our efforts toward student success and will open new doors for COD students looking to further their academic pursuits."

Offering more than 400 guided pathways into ASU, the MyPath2ASU program offers online and local undergraduate degree programs, including the Business Administration, BA. This degree prepares graduates for various roles in a modern economy by teaching leadership, finances, forecasting demand, and more. The program's emphasis on general management skills means graduates can start their career in a variety of industries. Graduates can consider roles in supply chain or operations management, regulatory affairs, transportation management, or any other public sector role. This diverse curriculum equips graduates to pursue many relevant opportunities along their career path.

View College of DuPage MyPath2ASU degree options .

College of DuPage is institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Serving more than 22,000 students each term, College of DuPage is the largest public community college in the state of Illinois. The College grants seven associate degrees and offers more than 170 career and technical certificates in over 50 areas of study.

###

Contact: Jennifer Duda

[email protected]

(630) 942-3097

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165261
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Eastern Platinum Limited (TSX: ELR) (JSE: EPS) ("Eastplats" or the "Company") today announced the completion of the previously announced rights offering to its shareholders (the "Rights Offering") (see news release of March 24, 2023), subject to final approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") and Johannesburg Stock Exchange (the "JSE").

On Friday, May 12, 2023 (the "Issue Date") Eastplats will issue an aggregate of 64,080,653 common shares of the Company (each a "Common Share") at a price of CDN$0.11 per Common Share issued in respect of the exercise of rights trading on the TSX and ZAR1.4564 (145.64 South African cents) per Common Share issued in respect of the exercise of rights trading on the JSE. The Company is very pleased to have raised total gross proceeds of approximately CDN$7,043,721 (TSX-CDN$6,900,317 and JSE-ZAR1,966,862) in terms of the Rights Offering.

The aggregate number of 64,080,653 Common Shares is comprised of 52,313,551 Common Shares, which will be issued in respect of the rights exercised under the basic subscription privilege, and an additional 11,767,102 Common Shares, which will be issued in respect of applications to subscribe for additional Common Shares received by the Company under the additional subscription privilege (on the basis that all applications for additional Common Shares have been allocated in full). As of the Issue Date, 201,901,426 Common Shares of Eastplats will be issued and outstanding. No Common Shares will be issued under a stand-by commitment and no fees or commissions will be paid in connection with the distribution.

To the knowledge of the Company, after reasonable inquiry, no person that was not an insider of Eastplats became an insider as a result of the issue of Common Shares under the Rights Offering.

Further to the rights offering circular of the Company dated March 24, 2023, the Company confirms that Ka An Development Co. Limited ("Ka An"), an insider by virtue of beneficial ownership of, or control or direction over, directly or indirectly, securities of the Company carrying more than 10% of the voting rights attached to all the Company's outstanding voting securities, has exercised its basic subscription privilege to acquire 45,000,000 Common Shares and its additional subscription privilege to acquire 10,767,000 Common Shares, for a total of 55,767,000 Common Shares, bringing Ka An's holdings after the Rights Offering to 100,767,000 Common Shares of the Company, representing 49.9% of the total issued and outstanding Common Shares of the Company.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Rights Offering to commence and/or complete various projects as described in the rights offering circular to expand and grow Eastplats' revenue potential. Eastplats will provide a more detailed and definitive update in regards to the specific projects and priorities in due course.

General

The Common Shares issuable upon exercise of the Rights have not been nor will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold, as applicable, in the United States absent registration (which the Company has not sought) or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of the Company. There shall be no offer or sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification of such securities under the laws of any such jurisdiction.

About Eastern Platinum Limited

Eastplats owns directly and indirectly a number of platinum group metals ("PGM") and chrome assets in the Republic of South Africa. All of the Company's properties are situated on the western limb of the Crocodile River Mine and eastern limb of Kennedy's Vale, Spitzkop and Mareesburg projects within the Bushveld Complex, the geological environment that hosts approximately 80% of the world's PGM-bearing ore.

Operations at the Crocodile River Mine currently include re-mining and processing its tailings resource to produce PGM and chrome concentrates from the Barplats Zandfontein tailings dam.

www.eastplats.com

For further information, please contact:

EASTERN PLATINUM LIMITED

Wylie Hui, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary

[email protected] (email)

(604) 800-8200 (phone)

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively referred to herein as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, forecasts, estimates, expectations and objectives for future operations that are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "will", "plan", "intends", "may", "will", "could", "expects", "anticipates" and similar expressions. Further disclosure of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and other forward-looking statements are discussed in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to: the use of proceeds from the Rights Offering, expansion and growth of revenue potential. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements as a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, unanticipated problems that may arise in the Company's production processes, commodity prices, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, need for additional funding and availability of such additional funding on acceptable terms, economic conditions, currency fluctuations, competition and regulations, legal proceedings and risks related to operations in foreign countries.

All forward-looking statements in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, the "Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information" section contained in the Company's most recent Management's Discussion and Analysis available under the Company's profile on www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date they are given and, except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation, and does not undertake, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165195
Highlights

Drilling has identified a large sulphide mineralised system at the Mont Agoma Prospect.

at the Mont Agoma Prospect. Significant tin, copper and zinc mineralisation from surface, >300m of strike and >250m width . System is open to the southeast and down dip .

. System is . Twelve diamond drill holes completed to date, showing strong increase in tin mineralisation at depth and to the southeast.

Assay results for first four holes (drilled in northwest) received. Results include 11.25m at 0.51% Sn from 5.75m and 4.4m at 1.03% Sn from 36m. These discovery holes interpreted to be northern, near surface extensions of the main target tin zone . Anomalous zones of zinc and copper mineralisation also intersected.

. Anomalous zones of zinc and copper mineralisation also intersected. Continuing drill program is testing mineralisation to the southeast and at depth. Most recently completed drill hole intersected a significant (29m) zone enriched in tin (including visible cassiterite) and strong visible copper - assays pending .

. Drilling has also recently commenced at the nearby Kalayi Prospect (tin-in-soil anomaly over 2 kms strike length).

CEO and President Mark Gasson commented: "The initial drilling at Mont Agoma has identified a large sulphide mineralised system and these discovery holes have enabled us to identify tin bearing zones at surface that continue along strike and appear to increase significantly in grade and width at depth. Base metal zones which contribute to the width of the sulphide mineral system of more than 250m do the same. We are clearly starting to understand the sulphide system and the mineral distribution within it. Previous experience in working in similar environments has shown that a centimetre wide cassiterite (tin) zone or vein at shallow intervals can blow out into a 20 to 30m wide mineralised zone at depth or along strike.

The key is that we have identified tin zones at shallow levels and through our understanding of the distribution of the tin, copper and zinc we are able to be more precise in planning our drilling programmes going forward. The programme was initially planned to test the source of the high-grade tin in soil anomaly identified at Mont Agoma. We are very excited to have uncovered a system of this magnitude. To date we have only tested 300m of the potential 1.2km of strike length defined in the high-grade tin in soil anomaly down to a maximum depth of 200m at Mont Agoma. We also look forward to understanding the grade and widths of mineralisation currently being mined by artisanal means at the Kalayi Prospect where drilling has recently commenced."

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2023) - Rome Resources Ltd. (TSXV: RMR) (FSE: 33R) ("Rome" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that drilling at its Mont Agoma Prospect (Figure 1), which is located within the Bisie North Tin Project ("BNTP"), has uncovered a large sulphide mineralised system along the Bisie Ridge that also hosts Alphamin's Mpama North & South deposits. Hydrothermal fluids impregnated in tin, copper, lead and zinc were injected along open structures at the time of mineralisation resulting in three discrete zones of mineralisation, which have a combined width of more than 250m at Mont Agoma. The most important of these are the "copper and tin" zone and the "tin" zone located along the north-eastern portion of the sulphide body.

The BNTP is comprised of two contiguous properties, exploration permits PR 13274 and PR 15130, which are situated in the Walikale District of the North Kivu Province in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo ("DRC"). The current drill program is designed to test ~300m of potential strike of the newly defined high grade, contiguous tin in soil anomaly at the Mont Agoma Prospect, which is a high-level tin in soil geochemical anomaly, with soil samples returning up to 0.2% Sn and covers a strike length of circa 1,200m (Figure 1). The Company has now completed a total of 12 diamond holes totalling 2,406m (Figure 2 and Table 1).

Figure 1: Tin in Soil Anomaly at the Bisie North Tin Project showing 3 Main Prospects. (Note: The extent of the Anomaly which covers ~5km)

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9037/165196_efef16a184548a0d_001full.jpg

Assay Results Received for First Four Holes, Further Eight Holes Completed

Assay results have been received for the first four holes drilled at Mont Agoma, confirming the discovery of significant tin, copper and zinc mineralisation in an area devoid of artisanal workings and with no hard rock exposures. Three main zones have been identified from drilling to date. From the southwest to the northeast, these include a "zinc zone" with anomalous tin and copper having a true thickness of approximately 100m, a "tin and copper zone" of various thickness but increasing at depth, and a "tin zone" intersected to date down to a maximum of 30-35m below surface. The upper levels are highly weathered and leached as evidenced from extensive alteration and gossan development in the oxide zone. Two tin zones were intersected at these levels and reported best intercepts of 11.25m at 0.51% Sn from 5.75m in hole MADD004 and 4.4m at 1.03% Sn from 36m & 1m at 1.3% Sn from 46m in MADD002 (refer to Figure 3). Drill hole details are shown in Table 1 and all results are shown in Table 2 in Annexure 1.

Copper was generally depleted in three of the four holes except MADD003 which reported 5.65m at 1.24% Cu from 82m and 8.2m at 1.89% Cu from 93.3m.

Significant zinc intersections included 81.6m at 2.68% Zn from 76.9m including 54m at 3.35% Zn from 95m & 56m at 1.67% Zn in MADD001 and 90m at 4.17% Zn from 77.5m including 30.6m at 7.28% Zn from 129.4m & 66m at 2.31% Zn from 172m in MADD002 (Figure 3). Zinc usually represents one of the final phases of mineralisation during which hydrothermal fluids are channelled through pre-existing structures, some of which may previously have hosted tin and copper mineralisation as suggested by the occasional anomalous tin and copper values within the zone.

Figure 2: Diamond Drill Hole Collar Positions on the Mont Agoma Tin in Soil Anomaly

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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9037/165196_efef16a184548a0d_002full.jpg

Figure 3: Section 1 Across MADD002, MADD007, MADD005 and MADD010A showing Surface Mineralisation over >200m.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9037/165196_efef16a184548a0d_003full.jpg

A further eight drill holes have been completed to date, with results expected in the coming months. The most recent drillholes have focused on testing mineralisation to the southeast and intersecting the "copper and tin" and "tin" zones at depth where visible cassiterite was identified in all deep holes (Figure 4). A significant 29m zone enriched in tin (identified from Niton XRF readings) and strong visible copper was identified at 137m downhole depth in drill hole MADD010A. Recent observations strongly support an increase in grade and width of the tin and copper zone at deeper levels. In addition, it appears that grades and widths of mineralisation increase to the southeast where the high-grade tin in soil anomaly continues for more than 500m.

Sampling has now been prioritised according to visible mineralisation with guidance from the Niton XRF to enable quicker results from the most prospective intervals and are in process of being sent to Lubumbashi for sample preparation prior to dispatch to ALS Global in Johannesburg.

Figure 4: Photos of Cassiterite (brown to pinkish mineral) and Sulphides in MADD011 (left) and MADD012 (right).

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9037/165196_rome_fig4_550.jpg

Drilling at Kalayi and Mont Agoma NW Prospects

Rome has commenced drilling at the Kalayi Prospect where artisanal miners have recovered cassiterite (tin) from a series of small-scale workings.

The tin in soil anomaly at the Kalayi Prospect has been defined over 2km (refer Figure 1). Channel samples collected previously from artisanal workings reported up to 1m at 11% tin ** within a broader 10m wide zone. Planned holes will target 250m of strike underlying the tin workings.

The first artisanal tin mining in the project area was carried out at the Mont Agoma NW Prospect (refer Figure 1). The surface workings were subsequently abandoned. Four holes covering 200m of strike length will test the tin mineral potential underlying these workings.

The Company currently has three diamond drill rigs on site with one rig dedicated to drilling the Kalayi and Mont Agoma NW Prospects.

Planned Soil Sampling

Infill soil sampling programmes have been planned to follow up on lower order tin in soil anomalies which, when combined with the priority anomalies, cover 5 km on the BNTP as shown in Figure 1.

All anomalies are on topographic highs and warrant further investigation as they have equal potential for new tin discoveries.

Collar Data of Completed Holes

The collar data of the holes completed, are listed in Table 1. The collars have been sited using a handheld GPS and will be surveyed by a qualified surveyor at a later stage. The coordinate system used is UTM35SWGS84.

QP Statement

Dr Deon Vermaakt is a consultant of Rome Resources Ltd and qualified geologist and is a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Geological Science) with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP Reg. No. 400074/03). Dr Vermaakt is a qualified person (QP) under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

Dr Vermaakt is satisfied that the results returned for the QAQC (8 blanks, 10 standards and 9 duplicate samples) samples which were inserted at regular intervals throughout the samples reported grades which were well within acceptable ranges as per industry standard.

About Rome Resources

Rome Resources Ltd. is a mineral exploration company that has entered into two option agreements to acquire 51% direct and indirect interests in two contiguous properties situated in the Walikale District of the North Kivu Province in eastern DRC, which are collectively referred to as the "Bisie North Tin Project". Rome intends to fund exploration on the project up to the completion of a definitive feasibility study.

Contacts

Investors/Shareholders

Mark Gasson

President, CEO & Director

P: (604) 687-6140

Media

E: [email protected]

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The information in this news release may include certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Although Rome Resources Ltd believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, Rome Resources Ltd 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.

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.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

Annexure 1

Table 1: Drill Hole Details at the Mont Agoma Prospect

Hole ID Easting Northing RL (m) Azi  Dip  EOH

(m) MADD001 578764 9891547 852 230 -60 254.5 MADD002 578733 9891586 847 230 -60 279.0 MADD003 578755 9891675 842 230 -60 116.5 MADD004 578816 9891590 843 230 -60 27.0 MADD005 578783 9891627 837 230 -60 300.0 MADD006 578678 9891608 855 230 -60 87.0 MADD007 578729 9891598 854 50 -50 225.0 MADD008 578691 9891751 827 230 -60 222.0 MADD009 578856 9891560 824 230 -60 150.0 MADD004A 578815 9891590 843 230 -60 16.,0 MADD010 578825 9891676 805 230 -60 48.0 MADD010A 578824 9891676 805 230 -60 223.5 MADD011 578796 9891712 827 230 -60 148.0 MADD012 578758 9891748 818 230 -60 160.0

Table 2: Significant Mineral Intercepts at the Mont Agoma Prospect (0.1% cut-off grade for Sn, 0.5% cut-off grade for Zn & Cu; 3m maximum internal waste)

Hole No From To Interval Sn Cu Zn Pb MADD001 1.85 4.1 2.25 0.21 8 9 1 0.12 35 39.1 4.1 0.35 76.9 158.5 81.6 2.68 Including 95 149 54 3.35 163 219 56 1.67 225 227 2 1.28 226 227 1 0.12 MADD002 1 3 2 0.13 36 40.4 4.4 1.03 46 47 1 1.30 77.5 167.5 90 4.17 Including 129.4 160 30.6 7.28 131.5 133 1.5 0.19 172 238 66 2.31 216 217 1 0.13 MADD003 0 12 12 1.23 0 13 13 0.21 16 18 2 1.04 19 20 1 0.11 33 36.5 3.5 1.03 52 53 1 0.13 59 67 8 0.73 64 65.5 1.5 0.17 68.5 70 1.5 0.20 74.5 79 4.5 0.16 82 87.65 5.65 1.24 1.69 1.99 83 87.65 4.65 0.12 93.3 95 1.7 0.37 93.3 101.5 8.2 1.89 95 101.5 6.5 1.03 100 101.5 1.5 0.16 105 106.5 1.5 1.20 MADD004 5.75 17 11.25 0.51 Including 2.25 1.06 22.5 24 1.5 0.32

** Grades reported by ALS Global laboratory in Johannesburg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/165196
JAKARTA, May 8, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - - Indonesia, the current holder of the ASEAN Chairmanship, will host the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, on May 9-11, 2023. With the "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth" chairmanship theme, Indonesia directed ASEAN cooperation in 2023 to continue strengthening the bloc's relevance to new challenges.

To ensure the summit's success, the authority is revving up its preparation to welcome ASEAN Summit delegates and participants in all aspects, particularly security, accommodations, and media support.

To secure the summit, National Police Chief General ListyoSigit Prabowo said a command center had been set up to monitor and supervise all activities related to the event. Communication devices of all officers would be connected to the command center, and they will also report to the center. The command center is also expected to monitor disaster potential to ensure prompt mitigation measures.

The National Police also ready eight security task forces to participate in the joint military-police Operation Komodo 2023 to secure the ASEAN Summit. The team partook in the tactical floor game (TFG) on Thursday (May 4) to ensure their readiness for the summit.

Meanwhile, Minister of Communications and Informatics Johnny G Plate said that Meruorah Hotel, Ayana Resort Hotel, and Bintang Flores Hotel had been designated as the 42nd ASEAN Summit's central locations.

The Ayana Resort Hotel would be the venue for the welcoming dinner and retreat session for state leaders of ASEAN countries during the summit, and the hotel management has readied all aspects. In addition, Meruorah Hotel is determined to promote local products by serving them exclusively in the delegates' rooms.

Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno said that some 1,500 rooms are still available in 38 hotels, ranging from three- to five-star hotels, for participants of the ASEAN Summit. The local authority also prepared several ships for extra accommodation during the event.

Moreover, to facilitate the delegates and other participants, particularly the media, Indonesia ensured that the digital infrastructure and public communication network for the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo would be adequate.

"[The summit] is also supported by adequate digital telecommunication technology and infrastructure such as optical fiber, 4G network, or experience of using 5G network," Minister Plate said after visiting the media center for the ASEAN summit. Similar public communication service facilities with the same standards as G20 Summit last year are prepared for the media.

The ministry also prepared Bintang Flores Hotel as the media center that can accommodate up to 340 people during the ASEAN Summit, which preparations are expected to complete this week. The hotel will be equipped with adequate facilities for journalists.

At least 319 journalists from national media, official media, and foreign correspondents were verified last Tuesday to cover the ASEAN Summit.

Additionally, ten top local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will showcase their products during the 42nd ASEAN Summit at Meruorah Hotel, Labuan Bajo, on May 9-11.

The 10 MSMEs will showcase their finest handicraft items, including woven fabrics, clothing, and other accessories. In addition to artworks, they will serve various typical foods and beverages of West Manggarai.

Indonesia hopes that all activities will run successfully.

--Antara

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
SHANGHAI , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dingdong (Cayman) Limited ("Dingdong" or the "Company") (NYSE: DDL), a leading fresh grocery e-commerce company in China with advanced supply chain capabilities, today announced that it plans to release its unaudited financial results for the first quarter of 2023 before the U.S. market opens on Friday, May 12, 2023 .

The Company's management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:00 A.M. Eastern Time on Friday, May 12, 2023 (8:00 P.M. Beijing Time on the same day) to discuss the financial results. The presentation and question and answer session will be presented in both Mandarin and English. Listeners may access the call by dialing the following numbers:

International: 1-412-317-6061 United States Toll Free: 1-888-317-6003 Mainland China Toll Free: 4001-206115 Hong Kong Toll Free: 800-963976 Conference ID: 7302404

The replay will be accessible through May 19, 2023 by dialing the following numbers:

International: 1-412-317-0088 United States: 1-877-344-7529 Access Code: 5972888

A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.100.me.

About Dingdong (Cayman) Limited

Dingdong is the leading fresh grocery e-commerce company in China , with sustainable long-term growth. The Company directly provides users and households with fresh produce, prepared food, and other food products through a convenient and excellent shopping experience supported by an extensive self-operated frontline fulfillment grid. Leveraging its deep insights into consumers' evolving needs and its strong food innovation capabilities, Dingdong has successfully launched a series of private label products spanning a variety of food categories. Many of Dingdong's private label products are produced at its own production plants, allowing it to more efficiently produce and offer safe and high-quality food products. Dingdong aims to be Chinese families' first choice for food shopping.

For more information, please visit: https://ir.100.me.

For investor inquiries, please contact:

Dingdong Fresh

[email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dingdong-to-report-first-quarter-2023-financial-results-on-may-12-2023-301818313.html

SOURCE Dingdong (Cayman) Limited
BAODING, China , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, GWM held a global media experience event on its new energy products in Baoding, China . The event demonstrated its commitment to electrification as well as its brand value of "Go With More" with series of new energy intelligent products to be launched.

GWM invited hundreds of media and distributors from over 60 countries and regions to experience its intelligent new energy vehicles and technologies. GWM's testing ground, as one of the most advanced automotive testing grounds in Asia , boasts hundreds of high-standard pavements, including high-speed rings, dynamic squares, and test hills. This allows the testing ground to fulfill the rigorous testing requirements for all types of vehicle models.

GWM provided media and distributors with models from different sub-brands, including HAVAL's new medium new energy SUV, HAVAL H6 PHEV, GWM TANK500 PHEV, POER Shanhai HEV, and ORA 07.

GWM HAVAL's new medium new energy SUV (internal code B07, dubbed "Fierce Dragon MAX in Chinese market"), is launched as a new energy intelligent family SUV. With a wheelbase of 2.8 meters, the model features a superb space expansion capability, which can fulfill users' needs for family trips. In terms of power, it is GWM's first model equipped with Hi4 (Hybrid intelligent 4WD) technology, reaching a balance between high performance and low fuel consumption.

ORA 07, positioned as a super-streamlined pure electric coupe, boasts a fastback design. The super streamlined aesthetic design showcases a modernized gracefulness combining sporty and fashionable styles. As for the interior details, a great number of eco-friendly materials are used for the model, bringing an impressive coziness and a sense of delicacy to the driver and riders.

After the activity, the media and distributors hailed GWM's technological innovation, product quality, and vehicle performance. A participant commented that GWM has showcased exceptional performance in the development of electrification and the activity showed the strength and advanced technologies of GWM.

The event presented a unique opportunity to manifest GWM's dedication to electrification and sustainable development in the automotive industry. GWM has been rolling out new technologies and models, marking its full-speed advancement toward the new energy transformation. This is aligned with its R&D concept of "precise input in pursuit of industry leadership".

Last year, GWM invested CNY 12.181 billion in R&D, up 34.34% on a year-on-year basis. By 2025, GWM's total R&D expense will exceed CNY 100 billion . These figures are a testament to GWM's persistence in driving intelligent new energy transformation through innovative technology.

GWM has established a comprehensive matrix of new energy products with varied power forms, including HEV, PHEV, and EV, across the globe. Moving forward, GWM remains dedicated to updating its line of new energy products worldwide with the vision of providing users with even more high-quality and intelligent options.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gwm-holds-all-nev-experience-event-to-display-its-new-energy-strategy-301818063.html

SOURCE GWM
In partnership with Steve Pemberton and Carmen Ortiz-McGhee , HMH celebrates 10 teachers across the country for their positive impact in their classrooms and beyond

BOSTON , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, learning technology company HMH announced the winners of the inaugural HMH Lighthouse Awards, in partnership with acclaimed speaker and author of The Lighthouse Effect, Steve Pemberton and Carmen Ortiz-McGhee , Chief Operating Officer at NAIC and a "human lighthouse" featured in Pemberton's book.

Over 500 teachersall of whom demonstrated extraordinary work both inside and outside of the classroomwere nominated for the awards. This year's winners have shown a commitment to going above and beyond for their students. Committed to the success of students in every part of their lives, these teachers serve as a guiding force to those around them, inspiring them to be lighthouses to others.

"As I read through the nominations, I felt as if I was brought into the classrooms of each teacher, and was in awe of their daily commitments," said Steve Pemberton , acclaimed speaker and author of The Lighthouse Effect. "I am thrilled that Carmen and I were able to work with HMH to recognize the impact that these teachers are having on students, schools and communities."

Students, families, colleagues, and school and district administrators nominated the 10 winners. They were all selected based on their embodiment of the key characteristics of a teacher lighthouse  someone who is humble, steady, and seeks no recognition for the work they do. This year's winners are:

Eric Cavalli , Adapted Physical Education at Manor ISD, Manor, TX  In a world where our disabilities may seem to define us, Eric has made it his mission to show his students that this doesn't have to be the case. Eric, who uses a wheelchair, never lets his disability limit him. His approach has helped his students remove any limitations that may have been holding them back from reaching their potential. He's encouraged more students to participate in the Special Olympics program, with participation tripling this year.

 In a world where our disabilities may seem to define us, Eric has made it his mission to show his students that this doesn't have to be the case. Eric, who uses a wheelchair, never lets his disability limit him. His approach has helped his students remove any limitations that may have been holding them back from reaching their potential. He's encouraged more students to participate in the program, with participation tripling this year. Blanca Hernandez , Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher at Douglass Elementary School , San Antonio, TX  Teachers are the cornerstone of the educational system, but they also play a major role in their local communities. After the Bilingual Program at her school moved to a hub campus, Blanca worked tirelessly to bring the program back to Douglass Elementary , where many students come from diverse backgrounds and greatly benefit from the program. Through countless meetings with campus and district staff, and families, she was able to bring the community and culture back to Douglass with the relaunch of the Bilingual Program for Pre-K and Kindergarten students.

 Teachers are the cornerstone of the educational system, but they also play a major role in their local communities. After the Bilingual Program at her school moved to a hub campus, Blanca worked tirelessly to bring the program back to , where many students come from diverse backgrounds and greatly benefit from the program. Through countless meetings with campus and district staff, and families, she was able to bring the community and culture back to with the relaunch of the students. Elaine Kotler , 7 th and 8 th Grade Science Teacher at Henry James Memorial School , Simsbury, CT  You should never judge a book by its cover, and Elaine is the perfect example of this. On the surface she is an energetic and enthusiastic teacher, who connects with her students through compassion and humor, but each day she is in chronic pain as she suffers from major health issues, including cancer. She had 12 operations over a 3-year span, all of which she scheduled around school vacations to ensure that she was able to continue providing her students with the best educational experience.

 You should never judge a book by its cover, and Elaine is the perfect example of this. On the surface she is an energetic and enthusiastic teacher, who connects with her students through compassion and humor, but each day she is in chronic pain as she suffers from major health issues, including cancer. She had 12 operations over a 3-year span, all of which she scheduled around school vacations to ensure that she was able to continue providing her students with the best educational experience. Dana Mason , 7 th  12 th Grade Writing Teacher at Keough Memorial Academy , Bellingham, MA  An unmotivated student is unlikely to learn much at school. Though some might simply write off the possibility of changing a student's approach towards learning, Dana does not. Dana customizes his curriculum to be appealing to his students  from arranging curated guest speakers to piloting a Personal Interest Project program at Keough Memorial Academy , he is committed to reaching and connecting with every student in his classroom.

 An unmotivated student is unlikely to learn much at school. Though some might simply write off the possibility of changing a student's approach towards learning, Dana does not. Dana customizes his curriculum to be appealing to his students  from arranging curated guest speakers to piloting a program at , he is committed to reaching and connecting with every student in his classroom. Tammy Notehelfer , Middle School Teacher at Mountain View Middle School , Bonney Lake, WA  The classroom is more than just a room, it is a space where students from different backgrounds come together to grow. Following the war in Ukraine , the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District has seen an influx of Ukrainian students, many of whom have been placed in Tammy's class. She has formed positive connections with each of her students by building unique relationships and creating a safe classroom culture, supporting and helping to guide her students through these uncertain times.

 The classroom is more than just a room, it is a space where students from different backgrounds come together to grow. Following the war in , the has seen an influx of Ukrainian students, many of whom have been placed in Tammy's class. She has formed positive connections with each of her students by building unique relationships and creating a safe classroom culture, supporting and helping to guide her students through these uncertain times. Nikki Radcliffe , K-12 Gifted Students at Racine Unified School District , Racine, WI  Students may be unaware of the extra effort and time that their teachers put towards providing them with the best opportunity to succeed. Nikki lets nothing hold her back from providing her students with opportunities to see themselves as leaders and innovators. Not only did she design a program for advanced third graders to attend a hands-on workshop series, but she even transports students to the events in the school van.

 Students may be unaware of the extra effort and time that their teachers put towards providing them with the best opportunity to succeed. Nikki lets nothing hold her back from providing her students with opportunities to see themselves as leaders and innovators. Not only did she design a program for advanced third graders to attend a hands-on workshop series, but she even transports students to the events in the school van. Traci Storti , 9 th  12 th Grade Spanish Teacher at Houlton Middle High School , Houlton, ME  Learning goes far beyond the lessons that students are taught in school, and sometimes the best way to learn is to experience. Traci, the first candidate in her school district to work toward National Board certification, brings excellence every day to her Spanish classes and works relentlessly to expose her students to the world around them. Traci organizes trips abroad for the world language students regularly  ensuring that these students in a small, rural town have the opportunity to experience different parts of the world.

 Learning goes far beyond the lessons that students are taught in school, and sometimes the best way to learn is to experience. Traci, the first candidate in her school district to work toward National Board certification, brings excellence every day to her Spanish classes and works relentlessly to expose her students to the world around them. Traci organizes trips abroad for the world language students regularly  ensuring that these students in a small, rural town have the opportunity to experience different parts of the world. Orlando Trevino , SPED Transition 18+ Program at Mercedes High School , Mercedes, TX  The impact a teacher has on their students can last much longer than their time together in the classroom. Orlando has been instrumental in helping students with special needs gain independence and prepare for a life outside of high school, playing a significant role in developing the SPED Transition 18+ Program. He ensures that students who have met graduation requirements but need more opportunities to gain life skills have the chance to do so by teaching them job readiness, activities of daily living and social emotional coping skills.

 The impact a teacher has on their students can last much longer than their time together in the classroom. Orlando has been instrumental in helping students with special needs gain independence and prepare for a life outside of high school, playing a significant role in developing the SPED Transition 18+ Program. He ensures that students who have met graduation requirements but need more opportunities to gain life skills have the chance to do so by teaching them job readiness, activities of daily living and social emotional coping skills. Charles Wake , 6 th Grade Science Teacher at Frazee Elementary School , Frazee, MN  Teachers are there to support their students with issues they face both inside and outside of the classroom. Three years ago, Charles guided his 3 rd grade class through the tragic loss of one of their classmates. This year, he is teaching 6 th grade and supporting those same children, uplifting and encouraging them through the good times and the bad as they continue to grieve the loss of their former classmate.

 Teachers are there to support their students with issues they face both inside and outside of the classroom. Three years ago, Charles guided his 3 grade class through the tragic loss of one of their classmates. This year, he is teaching 6 grade and supporting those same children, uplifting and encouraging them through the good times and the bad as they continue to grieve the loss of their former classmate. Avery Wilmurth , 4th Grade ELA at Bristow Elementary , Bowling Green, KY  Being a first-year teacher is challenging, and it can be even more so when many of your students are reading below grade level. However, Avery doesn't define her students by their past, and instead focuses on their potential, creating a classroom environment that allows students to safely try, fail, and redo, which resulted in her students showing some of the best improvement in the district this year.

"I was blessed to have caring, compassionate teachers who helped me navigate very challenging times in my youth," said Carmen Ortiz-McGhee , COO at NAIC and a "human lighthouse" featured in The Lighthouse Effect. "I was deeply moved by each teacher's story, knowing that, because of them, their students will be inspired and empowered to live into their full potential."

All winners will receive a visit from Steve Pemberton and Carmen Ortiz-McGhee at their school in the 2023-2024 school year. They will also receive an all-expenses paid trip to the 2023 Model Schools Conference, June 25-28 , in Orlando, FL.

About HMH

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH) is a learning technology company committed to delivering connected solutions that engage learners, empower educators and improve student outcomes. As a leading provider of K12 core curriculum, supplemental and intervention solutions, and professional learning services, HMH partners with educators and school districts to uncover solutions that unlock students' potential and extend teachers' capabilities. HMH serves more than 50 million students and 4 million educators in 150 countries. For more information, visit www.hmhco.com

Follow HMH on Twitter, Facebook , Instagram and YouTube.

Media Contact

Victoria Walker

360PR+

[email protected]

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SOURCE Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Former Obama Foundation senior director will lead JFF's fundraising strategy to accelerate the organization's mission to achieve equitable economic advancement for all

BOSTON , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that drives transformation in the U.S. education and workforce systems, today announced the appointment of Amy Seusing as its first Chief Development Officer. In this role, Seusing will lead JFF's strategy to diversify revenue through public sector grants and contracts, foundation and corporate partnerships, and individual giving, creating high-impact partnerships to support JFF's mission to promote equitable economic advancement for all.

"This is a powerful moment for JFF to build relationships with new mission-aligned funding sources that can help fuel our efforts to drive change in our education and workforce systems. The nation's learners and workers continue to face a multitude of inequities, yet there is a growing desire among employers, educators, and the public sector to generate new opportunities and challenge the status quo," said Maria Flynn , President and CEO of Jobs for the Future. "By partnering with individuals and funders who share our vision for transforming the U.S. education and workforce systems to help millions of people achieve their career and life goals, we believe Amy's expertise, relationships, and passion for these issues can help expand our impact and accelerate change."

Seusing will take over JFF's development efforts during a time of significant growth for the organization. JFF has doubled in size and budget over the past three years, enabling it to invest in new approaches to create opportunities for those facing barriers to quality jobs, particularly learners and workers who are people of color or women, people of all backgrounds without four-year degrees, and people with criminal records. Seusing's experience developing high-impact partnerships for social good will be critical to support JFF's commitment over the next 10 years to promote more worker-centered, living wage jobs for millions of people and to better prepare the nation's workers and learners to fill them.

"I was drawn to Jobs for the Future because throughout my career I've had the honor of supporting initiatives that drive economic opportunity for individuals and communities facing systemic barriers, and I appreciate how critical this work is," said Seusing. "I'm thrilled to join an organization that believes in bold transformation and look forward to forging promising new partnerships and deepening existing ones."

Prior to joining JFF, Seusing served as Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations at the Obama Foundation, the nonprofit focused on inspiring, empowering, and connecting young people to change their world, and building the future Obama Presidential Center. In that role, she created the corporate and foundation fundraising team, strategy, and structure to grow the foundation's corporate and foundation revenue to more than $150 million in three years. Before that, Seusing served as Vice President of Development at Rebuilding Together, a national housing and community development nonprofit.

Over the last year, JFF has launched two new centers -- the Center for Racial Economic Equity and the Center for Justice and Economic Advancement -- and a new Employer Mobilization practice to help employers support the economic mobility of their workers. Additionally, through JFFLabs, the organization has recently announced two new incubated lines of practice focused on Climate Innovation and Lifelong Learning, and the launch of JFF Ventures, an impact investment fund supporting innovative products and services supporting economic advancement for learners and workers.

In 2022, the organization acquired Dave's Killer Bread Foundation's second chance hiring program to help increase employment opportunities for the nearly 600,000 people released from prison each year. Also in 2022, JFFLabs acquired Educational Quality Outcomes Standards (EQOS) and recently received a major grant from GitLab Foundation to partner with the Burning Glass Institute to expand the EQOS framework, making it easier for job seekers and employers to assess the rapidly increasing number of education and training programs available today.

Entering its 40th year, JFF continues to work with public, private, and nonprofit sector changemakers to drive new ideas, promising innovations, and equitable ways to help millions more people advance. Select funders include The Walmart Foundation, The U.S. Department of Labor, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, American Student Assistance, and Ares Charitable Foundation, among other philanthropic foundations, government agencies, and corporations. For additional information, please visit: https://www.jff.org/about/donors/

About JFF: Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all. www.jff.org

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SOURCE JOBS FOR THE FUTURE INC
MUSCATINE, Iowa , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KENT Corporation is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2023 US Best Managed Company for the fourth consecutive year. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams.

The 2023 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people and fostering a dynamic, resilient culture, as well as strong financials. This year's designees continued to propel their businesses forward by prioritizing purpose, investing in their workforces, and demonstrating their commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

The award was first announced at KENT's internal 2023 Service Award banquet, at which 204 employees were honored for 5, 10, 15, up to 45-years for their contributions to the nearly 100-year-old family business. KENT is the only Iowa -based company on the awardee list and is among the first cohort of gold standard honorees who have achieved U.S. Best Managed Company designation for four consecutive years.

"We are thrilled to be named a 2023 US Best Managed Company Gold Standard honoree," said Gage Kent , KENT Corporation Chairman and CEO. "Since the very first year of being recognized, we have always appreciated the award's focus on every member of our company coming together to do great things. We at KENT thank all our customers, suppliers and employees for their part in this marvelous designation."

Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of independent judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 40 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million . Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices  strategy, execution, culture, and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

About KENT Corporation

With origins in the livestock feed business, today KENT Corporation is a diversified, family-owned company headquartered in Muscatine , Iowa (USA ) with operating subsidiaries involved in corn wet milling, the production of animal feeds, and the manufacture of food, beverage, and pet products. KENT is led by third generation family member, Gage A. Kent . KENT serves customers across the world and employs approximately two thousand people in 40 locations across 20 states and seven countries.

Media Contact:

Carol Reynolds

Corporate Spokesperson

(563) 264-4532

[email protected]

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SOURCE KENT Corporation
VANCOUVER, BC , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - NexGen Energy Ltd. ("NexGen" or the "Company") (TSX: NXE) (NYSE MKT: NXE) (ASX: NXG) is pleased to announce it has mailed a Notice of Meeting and Management Information Circular to shareholders of record as of April 24, 2023 in connection with the Annual General and Special Meeting of the Company to be held on Thursday, June 15, 2023 , at 2:00 p.m. (Pacific Time)

Your vote is important - please vote today.

NexGen encourages shareholders to read the meeting materials, which have been filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and are available on our website at www.nexgenenergy.ca.

Shareholders will be asked to vote on the following matters:

Set the number of directors at ten; Elect directors for the ensuing year; Re-appoint KPMG LLP as independent auditor; and Approve the Amended and Restated Shareholder Rights Plan.

The Board of Directors of NexGen recommends that shareholders vote in favour of all proposed items.

Meeting Access and Location:

Webcast URL: https://app.webinar.net/49m7apn2Dxe

Conference Call Dial-In:

To join the conference call by phone, please use the following URL to easily register yourself and be connected into the conference call automatically or dial direct.



https://emportal.ink/3Kd7WKp

Conference ID: 46397367

International Toll: +1 416-764-8659

North American Toll Free: 1-888-664-6392



Location: The Offices of NexGen Energy Ltd.

Suite 3150, 1021 West Hastings St.

Vancouver, BC Canada





Participants of the webcast and conference call will be able to participate in the question-and-answer session following the formal business of the Meeting and presentation.

How to Vote



Beneficial Shareholder Shares held with a broker, bank or

other intermediary Registered Shareholders Shares held in own name and

represented by a physical

certificate CDI Holders Shares held by way of CDIs through

CHESS Depository Nominees Pty

Limited

www.proxyvote.com www.investorvote.com www.investorvote.com.au

Call or fax to the number(s) listed

on your voting instruction form Phone: 1-866-732-8683 Fax: 1-866-249-7775 Fax to the number(s) listed on your

CDI voting instruction form

Return the voting instruction form in

the enclosed postage paid

envelope Return the form of proxy in the

enclosed postage paid envelope Return the CDI voting instruction

form to the address listed in your

CDI voting instruction form

Please submit your vote well in advance of the proxy deposit deadline of

2:00p.m. (Pacific Time) on Tuesday June 13, 2023 .

Shareholder Information and Questions

NexGen shareholders who have questions about the Management Information Circular, or require assistance with voting their shares can contact the Company's proxy solicitation agent, TMX Investor Solutions Inc.:

TMX Investor Solutions Inc.,

North America Toll Free: 1-800-706-3274

Outside North America: 1- 201-806-7301

Email: [email protected]

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.

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 24, 2023 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.

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SOURCE NexGen Energy Ltd.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov paid an official visit to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan told Trend.

Topical issues on the agenda of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Lithuania were discussed at the bilateral meeting.

Then the bilateral meeting was continued in an expanded format with the participation of the President's Chief Adviser on Foreign Policy Asta Skaisgiryte.

Azerbaijani FM noted that there is an effective bilateral agenda of cooperation between the two countries in the political, economic, trade, investment, energy security, agriculture, education, humanitarian and other spheres, including within the framework of international organizations, mutual visits play an important role in the development of relations, as well as political dialogue between two countries.

Noting the support of projects implemented by Lithuania in the field of communications within the framework of the EU, the minister said that against the background of ongoing geopolitical changes, the importance of the Caspian region, including the Middle Corridor, also known Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) is increasing even more.

In this context, they expressed confidence that Azerbaijan's efforts to open transport and communications in the region, including the Zangazur Corridor, will be useful in terms of expanding the capabilities of the TITR.

Moreover, Bayramov spoke in detail about the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period (Second Karabakh War), large-scale renovation and construction work carried out by the country in the territories liberated from Armenian occupation, efforts aimed at promoting the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and current challenges, including the mine danger.

The minister pointed out that joint cooperation in the ongoing restoration work and the fight against the mine threat, in particular, will make an important contribution to the establishment of peace and security in the region.

In turn, the Lithuanian side expressed interest in using the existing potential for further development of relations with Azerbaijan. It was noted with satisfaction that the EU Eastern Partnership Program is an important platform for the development of cooperation, and Azerbaijan is a reliable partner, especially in the field of energy security.

Furthermore, highlighting peace-building efforts in the region, the Lithuanian side underlined the importance of commitment to the normalization process and stated that Lithuania supports these efforts.

Both sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
DENVER , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Ovintiv Inc. (NYSE: OVV) (TSX: OVV) (the "Company") today announced that the following matters, as further described in the Company's Proxy Statement filed on March 23, 2023 (the "Proxy Statement"), were voted upon at its 2023 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 3, 2023 .

Election of Director Nominees Listed in the Proxy Statement

Each director nominee listed in the Proxy Statement was elected as a director of the Company. The results of the vote by ballot were as follows:



Shares For Shares Against Abstain Broker Non-vote Peter A. Dea 168,404,785 5,047,161 130,316 19,755,443 Meg A. Gentle 169,689,545 3,737,410 155,307 19,755,443 Ralph Izzo 171,659,752 1,696,254 226,256 19,755,443 Howard J. Mayson 170,339,842 3,107,225 135,195 19,755,443 Brendan M. McCracken 172,605,556 825,099 151,607 19,755,443 Lee A. McIntire 166,563,086 6,842,816 176,360 19,755,443 Katherine L. Minyard 171,973,771 1,444,588 163,903 19,755,443 Steven W. Nance 172,011,222 1,397,006 174,034 19,755,443 Suzanne P. Nimocks 157,900,679 15,424,515 257,068 19,755,443 George L. Pita 172,022,482 1,389,605 170,175 19,755,443 Thomas G. Ricks 165,904,949 7,505,652 171,661 19,755,443 Brian G. Shaw 170,658,576 2,792,006 131,680 19,755,443



Advisory Vote to Approve Compensation of Named Executive Officers

The results of the non-binding advisory vote for the compensation of the Company's named executive officers were as follows:

Shares For Shares Against Abstain Broker Non- vote 167,308,173 5,820,963 453,126 19,755,443



Advisory Vote on Frequency of Future Advisory Votes to Approve Compensation of Named Executive Officers

The results of the non-binding advisory vote on the frequency of future advisory votes to approve the compensation of named executive officers, were as follows:

One-Year Two-Years Three-Years Abstain Broker Non-vote 170,568,567 127,026 2,498,008 388,661 19,755,443



Ratification of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Independent Auditors

The results for the ratification of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Chartered Accountants, as the Company's independent auditors were as follows:

Shares For Shares Against Abstain Broker Non-vote 186,757,581 6,435,087 145,037 0

Further information on Ovintiv Inc. is available on the Company's website, www.ovintiv.com, or by contacting:

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SOURCE Ovintiv Inc.
SAN DIEGO , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Singleton Schreiber partner Ben Siminou heads to court in the Fourth Appellate District on May 8 in an appeal following a headline grabbing mega-church sex abuse scandal.

The lawsuit alleges a youth counselor at the Houston -based Grace Community Church molested Mr. Siminou's client (" John Doe "), then hid this abuse for years from parents and authorities.

According to the complaint, beginning in July 2009 , Joel Davisthe director of the church's youth and performing-arts programconfessed to a church pastor that, while on a trip to San Diego for a dance camp, he sexually abused John (then a minor) while he slept. Davis was not fired, and was allowed to continue serving as the director of youth-based programs at the church.

In 2010, John, now six-weeks past his 18th birthday, attended another trip to California for a dance camp. Davis was once again the lone chaperone in a hotel suite full of boys. According to the complaint, during that trip, Davis again molested John while he slept. The next day, Davis confessed to the church's most senior pastors, but still was not fired. The pastors later admitted they did not remove Davis because they were afraid the congregation would discover what happened if they did.

John and his family did not discover the abuse for several years. They were only made aware of the second incident when, after hearing rumors, John confronted Davis, who then confessed to the second incident in 2010. Even then, the church led John to believe there was only one incident, and continued to cover up the first incident for several more years until John told his parents, who then confronted Davis and the church.

"My client put his trust in these ministers, in the hope they would help him become a better person," said Ben Siminou , partner at Singleton Schreiber. "Instead, they put the church's interests above his welfare by exposing him to a known sex offender, then keeping his abuse a secret for years. The church not only put my client in harm's way, they betrayed his trust."

The case was thrown out by the trial court on the eve of trial, but Mr. Siminou is fighting to give the family the justice they deserve.

This appeal is John Doe v. Grace Community Church, Superior Court for San Diego County, Case No. 37-2017-00002921-CU-PO-NC. The sex abuse survivor is referred to as " John Doe " to protect his anonymity.

About Ben Siminou

Ben Siminou is a certified appellate attorney and head of the firm's Motion, Writs & Appeals practice group where he handles motions and appeals for trial lawyers inside and outside the firm. Ben has an extraordinarily high winning percentage in the appellate courts, with notable wins in the California Supreme Court, Nebraska Supreme Court, Ninth Circuit, and the California Court of Appeal. Ben has been even more successful with law-and-motion in trial courts. In 2021 and 2022 alone, Plaintiffs recovered over $75 million in cases in which Ben defeated a dispositive motion.

About Singleton Schreiber

With over 200 employees and offices throughout the western United States , Singleton Schreiber has represented more than 12,000 victims of utility fires and has recovered approximately $2 billion in settlements and verdicts for its clients. The firm currently represents thousands of victims of the numerous fires in California , New Mexico , and Oregon . The firm's dedication to obtaining justice for those impacted by toxic conditions and environmental hazards sets it apart from the competition. The firm is also a premier personal injury firm, obtaining top results for clients, including more than $100 million in verdicts in 2022.

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FILE PHOTO: Members of the press and the general public check out the Atto 3 electric SUV made by Chinese carmaker BYD, at the Fully Charged Live electric vehicle trade show in Farnborough, Britain, April 28, 2023. REUTERS/Nick Carey

(This May 8 story has been corrected to say that Mitsubishi Motors made the comment last month, not last week, in paragraph 18)

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China is ground zero for the price war in electric vehicles and the battleground is shifting to SUV-styled EVs, the largest segment of the market, dominated by Tesla Inc and BYD.

The market, crowded with more than 90 models, is about to get even tighter with at least 20 new models of both Chinese and foreign brands launched in April, squeezing pricing and margins at home and driving exports, analysts and executives said.

EV makers in China have followed Tesla's bold price cuts by lowering prices for their own electric SUVs, cannibalizing sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as the price gap between the technologies narrows, analysts said.

The trend will spread abroad with growing exports of China-made electric SUVs.

"We're going to see a lot of Chinese exports because of the ultra-competitive market in China. It's actually going to be a pressure release valve," said Tu Le, founder of Beijing-based advisory firm Sino Auto Insights.

The market for SUVs has boomed in China over the past decade and now represents almost 40% of all cars sold, with 400 SUV models of all fuel types.

Almost as many China-made SUVs were sold in 2022 as cars of any type in Europe last year, or more than 11 million.

The popularity of electric SUVs has exploded since Tesla delivered its domestically-produced Model Y two years ago in China, making it one of the fastest-growing segments in the world's largest auto market.

Chasing Tesla, https://www.reuters.com/graphics/CHINA-SUVS/PRICING/gdvzqjgenpw/chart.png

Both domestic and foreign brands were represented among the new models rolled out at the Shanghai Auto Show in April.

Legacy automakers Volkswagen, BMW and Toyota are counting on new electric SUVs to bolster China sales.

Made-in-China EV startups Xpeng and Nio have six SUV models and the EV-only brands launched by Chinese state-owned car companies, such as GAC's Aion are also pushing all-electric SUVs.

They will compete with 93 existing electric SUV models in a market that saw 1.5 million sales in 2022, with the top 10 brands making up 84%, a Reuters analysis of data from China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) shows.

There were 76 electric SUVs in 2020 before Tesla started producing Model Ys in China, with average annual sales amounting to just 3,000 units.

China's Love for SUVs is Growing, https://www.reuters.com/graphics/CHINA-SUVS/PRICING/dwpkdleenvm/chart.png

Despite recent minor price hikes, Tesla's Model Y is still 20% cheaper in China than in early October, when the U.S. automaker grappled with rising inventory.

DISCOUNT WAR

Xpeng, Leapmotor and others have fired back with their own discounts, while BYD offered a discount of $1,000 on its market-leading Song Plus SUV, or about 4% off.

Those refusing to slash prices on existing models to protect brand value have instead chosen to offer lower-than-expected starting prices for new models, along with longer driving ranges and greater autonomous driving features.

For example, Geely's premium EV brand Zeekr priced its new compact crossover Zeekr X from $27,500, 28% cheaper than Model Y and almost the same price as Honda's CR-V, first-quarter sales of which slumped 56%.

Mitsubishi Motors also said last month it had suspended for three months production of its Outlander SUV in China.

The reality is "brutal" for legacy foreign brands targeting the mass market with small SUVs priced below $40,000, such as Ford, said Le of Sino Auto Insights.

Ford's chief executive, Jim Farley, acknowledged the intense market competition for two-row, SUV-styled EVs as a factor driving China's car export boom.

"That's why they're going big on Europe. Europe is a premium export market. They're all going there," Farley said in April after a trip to China.

Ford will also restructure its China operations to turn one of its joint ventures into an export hub for low-cost commercial electric and combustion vehicles, Farley said last week.

General Motors, which saw profit from China tumble by almost a fourth in the most recent quarter, needs new EVs to be a success in order to rebuild its market share in China, but the pressure is intense.

"China has 100 vehicle brands vying for sales and a 50% capacity utilization rate," Chief Executive Mary Barra said.

Tesla and Renault have already been exporting their China-made electric SUVs to Europe on a large scale. Tesla will begin shipping Model Y crossovers from its Shanghai plant to Canada, its first exports to North America, Reuters reported.

Chinese automakers have their own plans to grow electric SUV sales to Europe.

Zeekr said it would bring the Zeekr X to western Europe while exports of BYD's Atto 3 SUV more than doubled in the first quarter as it started taking orders there.

"The styling of it (Atto 3) is in keeping with the higher driving position, the good space," said Mark Blundell, BYD's head of marketing in Britain.

"We just feel it's a good start point for us in the UK."

($1=6.9000 Chinese yuan renminbi)

(Reporting by Zhang Yan and Brenda Goh in Shanghai; Additional reporting by Nick Carey in London; Editing by Ben Klayman and Clarence Fernandez)
By Elizabeth Piper

KYIV (Reuters) -President Volodymyr Zelenskiy moved on Monday to formalise the day that Ukraine marks the allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two as May 8, aligning it with Western nations in a repudiation of the Soviet past quickly condemned by Moscow.

Speaking to Ukrainians on a hill overlooking Kyiv, Zelenskiy said "the old evil" had returned, this time waged by a "modern Russia" pursuing the same goal as the Nazis of "enslavement and destruction" - but that it would not succeed.

Zelenskiy said he had submitted a bill to parliament officially making May 8 Ukraine's day of remembrance and victory, while May 9 would become Europe Day. Zelenskiy wants Ukraine one day, after the war, to join the European Union.

"We are returning to our state an honest history without ideological influences. It is on May 8 that most nations of the world remember the greatness of the victory over the Nazis," he said in a video posted on the president's Telegram channel.

Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender came into force at 11:01 p.m. on May 8, 1945, which was already May 9 in Moscow.

Russia marks the day on May 9, a key national event with huge military parades and commemorations of the enormous sacrifices made by the then-Soviet Union, which lost some 27 million citizens in defeating Nazi Germany.

Ukraine first moved the commemoration to May 8 in 2015, accusing Russia, which had annexed Crimea and fuelled an insurgency in its east the year before, of using the anniversary to whip up Russian nationalism. But it did not formalise the change for fear of stoking internal divisions.

"Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat 'rashism'," Zelenskiy said, using a word Ukrainians have coined to describe what they call Russian fascism.

"The unity that brings peace closer."

'JUDAS'

The Kremlin said May 9 would remain sacred for many in Ukraine.

"There are veterans there too who took part in the Great Patriotic War, and their relatives, for whom this day is and will remain sacred," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said when asked about the change.

Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova went further.

"What is worse than an enemy? A traitor. That is Zelenskiy, the embodiment of Judas in the 21st century... An accomplice of the fascists 80 years later," she said, adding he had betrayed the memory of the Ukrainians who died fighting the Nazis.

Moscow has stepped up attacks on Ukrainian cities including the capital Kyiv in the leadup to May 9, and some commentators say President Vladimir Putin wants to secure some kind of victory in the grinding war to coincide with the holiday.

Zelenskiy said Europe could not let that happen and it was again time to defeat "evil" together "to ensure that no one ever enslaves other peoples or destroys other countries again".

"We do not yet know the date of our victory, but we know that it will be a holiday for the whole of Ukraine, for the whole of Europe, for the whole of the free world."

(Additional reporting by Moscow bureau, editing by Mark Heinrich, Gareth Jones and Philippa Fletcher)
A citizen casts their vote at a polling station during elections for a new assembly to draft constitution, at the Estadio Nacional, in Santiago, Chile April 7, 2023. REUTERS/Ivan Alvarado

SANTIAGO (Reuters) -Chilean right-wing parties won a majority of votes on Sunday to elect advisers to draft a new constitution, marking a sharp shift from a progressive majority that drafted a failed first constitutional rewrite.

With 95.13% of ballots tallied, Chile's Republican Party, led by former conservative firebrand presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast, secured nearly 35% of the vote.

A separate coalition of traditional right-wing parties gained just over 20% of the vote, while President Gabriel Boric's left-wing coalition garnered about 29%. Centrist parties took the remainder of the vote.

"Today is the first day of a better future, a new start for Chile," Kast, who lost to Boric in 2021, said during a speech in Santiago. "Chile has defeated a failed government."

The final results will determine the exact make-up of a 50-seat Constitutional Council that will be in charge of drafting a new constitution. Articles will need a three-fifths majority to be approved.

This is the latest step in a years-long effort to overhaul the country's dictatorship-era text after nearly 80% of Chileans voted to draft a new constitution in 2020 following violent protests against inequality.

The constitutional advisers elected on Sunday will start drawing up a new constitution in June based on a draft compiled by 24 constitutional experts appointed by Congress in March. Voters will then approve or reject the new proposal in December.

The first rewrite was drafted by largely independent and left-wing constituents and it focused on social benefits, environmental rights, gender parity and indigenous rights.

It was considered one of the world's most progressive constitutions, but many voters found it too polarizing and the process was mired by controversies.

Boric, who took office last March, rose to power on a wave of optimism surrounding reform, but his approval ratings have since plummeted as a struggling economy and rising crime have become the main concerns for voters.

Boric also suffered a political defeat after throwing his weight behind the first rewrite, which was rejected by nearly 62% of voters. The president has since distanced himself from the process but vowed to support it.

"The government won't meddle with the process and will respect the entity's autonomy in its deliberation," Boric told reporters Sunday morning after voting, adding that the government would act as a guarantor and support requests from the new council.

After Kast's victory speech, Boric spoke from La Moneda presidential palace in Santiago and called for unity and urged the opposition to learn from the previous failed attempt.

"I want to invite the Republican Party, that's won an unquestionable majority, to not make the same mistakes we made," Boric said. "This process can't be about vendettas, but putting Chile first."

(Reporting by Alexander Villegas and Natalia Ramos; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Michael Perry)
FILE PHOTO: HSBC's logo is seen on its headquarters in Hong Kong, China August 4, 2020. REUTERS/Tyrone Siu/File Photo

By Selena Li

HONG KONG (Reuters) -HSBC has agreed to buy out its China fund management joint venture partner, two people familiar with the matter said, as the Asia-focused bank pushes ahead with expansion in the world's second-largest economy.

HSBC, which currently owns a 49% stake in HSBC Jintrust Fund Management, has signed an agreement with Shanxi Trust under which the Chinese state-owned company will sell its 51% holding in the joint venture to the bank, said the sources.

The transfer is, however, subject to a public auction of the shares and regulatory review and approval, said the sources, who declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak to media.

If approved, Europe's biggest bank by assets, which makes the bulk of its revenue and profit in Asia, will expand its presence in the $3.8 trillion fund management market in China.

A spokesperson for HSBC in Hong Kong declined to comment. Representatives for Shanghai-headquartered HSBC Jintrust and Shanxi Trust did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

It was not immediately clear how much HSBC will pay Shanxi Trust to wholly own HSBC Jintrust, which, according to the joint venture's website, had $7.7 billion in funds under management as of end-March.

HSBC's move to boost its stake in the fund venture is the lender's latest to expand its presence in China.

The London-headquartered bank converted its China insurance joint venture to a wholly-owned subsidiary in 2021, and boosted ownership of its China securities joint venture to 90% last year.

HSBC has deployed billions of dollars in China in the last few years as part of an Asia pivot, boosting its market share across banking, insurance and securities businesses in the country's $57 trillion financial sector.

China, including Hong Kong and the mainland, contributed around 44% of HSBC's profit in 2022.

CHINA INVESTMENTS

HSBC Chief Executive Noel Quinn visited Beijing in March, when a top official told him China "welcomed an expansion of HSBC's investment in the country".

The bank's signing of the deal for the China fund business comes as it contends with a months-long campaign from shareholder Ping An to hive off its Asia business. HSBC managed to defeat a break-up bid at Friday's annual investor meeting.

HSBC joins a string of global financial companies including Manulife, JPMorgan and Morgan Stanley in taking advantage of the removal of a foreign ownership cap in 2019 to boost stakes in Chinese fund ventures.

HSBC Global Asset Management, the bank's fund business unit, is planning an accelerated push to win regulatory approval to bring the ownership change into effect, the sources said.

However, before turning to the regulators, it must cut or offload a majority stake indirectly owned via its subsidiary Hang Seng Bank in 70%-controlled fund unit Hang Seng Qianhai Fund Management, the sources said.

Domestic and foreign firms are subject to China's "One Majority, One Minority" ownership rule, which means they can't have more than two fund units in China and only hold majority control of one.

(Reporting by Selena Li; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee, Kirsten Donovan)
FILE PHOTO: Signage on the Los Angeles Times building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., February 6, 2018. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni

By Joseph Ax

NEW YORK (Reuters) -The Associated Press won two Pulitzer Prizes on Monday, including the distinguished public service award, for its coverage of the war in Ukraine, while the New York Times earned the international reporting honor for its stories about the Russian invasion.

Washington Post reporter Caroline Kitchener won the national reporting prize for coverage of abortion in the United States after the Supreme Court last year overturned the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that had legalized the procedure nationwide. Eli Saslow, now with the Times, won the feature writing award for the Post.

Reuters was a finalist in two categories. In international reporting, the Pulitzer board cited Reuters for its four-part investigative series that exposed grave human rights abuses against women and children by the Nigerian military in its war with Islamist insurgents. In national reporting, Reuters was selected as a finalist for a series that revealed the widespread use of child labor by auto parts suppliers and poultry slaughterhouses in the U.S. state of Alabama.

The annual Pulitzer awards, first presented in 1917, are the most celebrated honors in U.S. journalism. The prizes are named for newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer, who died in 1911 and left money to create the awards and establish a journalism school at Columbia University.

The public service award, considered the most prestigious, honored Associated Press journalists Mstyslav Chernov, Evgeniy Maloletka, Vasilisa Stepanenko and Lori Hinnant, who remained in the Ukrainian town of Mariupol last spring as it came under fire from Russian troops and documented the killing of civilians.

Maloletka was also part of the AP team in Ukraine that won for breaking news photography.

Before announcing the winners, Neil Brown, co-chair of the Pulitzer board and president of the Poynter Institute, spoke in support of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained during a reporting trip and accused of espionage by Russian authorities.

The United States has objected to Gershkovich's arrest and called on Russia to dismiss the case.

"The Pulitzer Prize board joins the many organizations around the world demanding Evan's immediate release," Brown said. "He, like so many others, is doing his job."

An Alabama news website, AL.com, won two Pulitzers, one for local reporting and another for commentary.

The Los Angeles Times won the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news for revealing a secretly recorded conversation among city council members that included racist comments, a scandal that prompted two officials to resign. The newspaper's Christina House also earned the feature photography award for her series showing the life of a pregnant homeless woman.

In addition to the international reporting prize, the New York Times took the award for illustrated reporting and commentary. The Times has won 137 Pulitzers since the awards began.

The Wall Street Journal won for investigative reporting for revealing financial conflicts of interest among officials at dozens of federal agencies.

Caitlin Dickerson, a reporter at The Atlantic magazine, took home the explanatory reporting award for her in-depth examination of a U.S. policy under former President Donald Trump of separating parents from their children at the U.S. border.

The Pulitzers also handed out awards in eight categories for books, music and drama.

Two Washington Post reporters, Robert Samuels and Toluse Olorunnipa, won the Pulitzer for general nonfiction for "His Name is George Floyd," a book about the Black man whose 2020 murder by police in Minneapolis sparked international protests.

A board comprised mostly of leading editors or executives at major U.S. media outlets presides over the judging process.

(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Additional reporting by Costas Pitas and Daniel Trotta; Editing by Will Dunham and Lisa Shumaker)
FILE PHOTO: A general view of the Supreme Court building where Ministers elected a new President for the Supreme Court, in Mexico City, Mexico January 2, 2023.REUTERS/Henry Romero

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexico's Supreme Court on Monday struck down part of an electoral overhaul championed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador that curbs the power of the country's elections authority, which the leftist leader has repeatedly attacked.

A separate part of the legislative reform, which slashes the budget and staffing at the National Electoral Institute (INE), is still being evaluated by the tribunal.

Nine of the court's 11 justices voted to invalidate the reform's push to rein in the INE's ability to police political communications, the court announced on Twitter.

The justices ruled that "serious violations in legislative procedure" had taken place in passing the measure, it said.

In March, the court temporarily suspended other parts of the overhaul, citing violations of citizens' political rights.

Lopez Obrador says he was twice robbed of the presidency before he won by a landslide in the 2018 election, and argues the INE is too expensive and biased in favor of his opponents.

Critics argue the electoral shake-up really aims to cede power to state and local officials, many of whom are currently affiliated with Lopez Obrador's ruling MORENA party, potentially tipping the scales in its favor in the 2024 general election.

Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets in February after lawmakers approved the reform, in one of the largest protests so far against Lopez Obrador's 4-1/2 year-old administration.

(Reporting by Raul Cortes Fernandez; Editing by Sandra Maler)
FILE PHOTO: An olefins unit burns in fire at Shell Deer Park, Texas chemical plant in this screengrab obtained from social media on May 5, 2023, in Deer Park, Texas, U.S. Johnny Walea via TMX/via REUTERS

(Reuters) - Shell Plc on Monday said the reignited fire at its chemicals facility in the Houston suburb of Deer Park, Texas, was extinguished Sunday night but intermittent flaring could continue.

The fire, which initially ignited on Friday in an explosion in an olefins unit, was extinguished for a few hours on Saturday morning before reigniting later.

"We are using less water to manage the hot spots and have closed the valve eliminating discharge to the Houston Ship Channel," the company said in a statement.

No injuries were reported from the fire. Nine people were evaluated and released at local hospitals on Friday for possible chemical exposure.

"Air monitoring is ongoing and has not detected any harmful levels of chemicals affecting neighboring communities. There is no danger to the nearby community," Shell said, adding the cause of the fire was under investigation.

Jennifer Hadayia, executive director of Air Alliance Houston, said Shell's statements about risks to the community were self-serving.

"History has shown that these early statements are for the benefit of industry public relations and not public health," Hadayia said.

Water may continue to be sprayed for up to 36 hours after the fire is extinguished to keep nearby equipment cool, Shell spokesperson Curtis Smith said on Sunday.

Olefins units are the central units in petrochemical complexes, producing ethylene, butadiene and propylene that are used to make plastics and other products like detergent and rubber.

(Reporting by Deep Vakil in Bengaluru; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Officers with the Allen Police Department man the mobile command post the day after a gunman shot multiple people at the Dallas-area Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, Texas, U.S. May 7, 2023. REUTERS/Jeremy Lock

By Tyler Clifford and Steve Gorman

(Reuters) -The man Texas authorities say killed eight people in a barrage of gunfire at a Dallas-area shopping mall over the weekend left behind a social media profile filled with white supremacist and neo-Nazi ideology, multiple news outlets reported on Monday.

News reports linking the assailant to language praising Hitler and to diatribes vilifying racial minorities and women emerged as state police named the five adults murdered on Saturday and confirmed that three children also died - two girls, aged 11 and 8, and a 3-year-old boy.

Among the adults who lost their lives, police said, were Kyo Song Cho, 37, and his wife, Cindy Cho, 35, of Dallas. According to local media, they were the parents of the slain 3-year-old and of a 6-year-old son who was wounded and left as the lone surviving member of his immediate family.

The two girls who died, both from Sachse, Texas, were sisters, local media reported.

The deceased also included two other men, Christian LeCour, 23, of Nevada, Texas, and Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32, of Dallas, and a woman, Aishwarya Thatikonda, 26, of McKinney, Texas, police said.

A further 10 people, ranging in age from 5 to 61, were injured in the mass shooting, at least three of them critically.

Authorities have offered no word about a possible motive for Saturday's carnage at the Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, where the gunman, identified as Mauricio Garcia, 33, opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle.

Police said the attacker, a Dallas resident, was shot dead by police arriving at the scene.

PRAISE FOR HITLER AND 'RWDS' PATCH

Investigators combing social media accounts linked to the gunman found hate-filled posts targeting racial and ethnic minorities, NBC News reported, citing two law enforcement officials.

At the time of the shooting, Garcia also wore a patch bearing an "RWDS" insignia, a symbol associated with violent right-wing extremists, including the Proud Boys, according to news media organizations. RWDS is an acronym known to stand for "Right Wing Death Squad."

The New York Times, citing its own law enforcement sources, reported Garcia was believed to have posted a number of messages on a Russian social media platform praising Hitler, sympathizing with neo-Nazi beliefs and disparaging women.

The author behind some of the posts under investigation repeatedly suggested he was of Hispanic heritage and as recently as last month included a post saying that "white people and Hispanics have a lot in common."

Reuters could not independently confirm the reports.

The Allen Police Department, Collin County Sheriff's Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the reports.

The massacre is among the latest in at least 202 mass shootings recorded in the United States this year, according to the nonprofit group Gun Violence Archive. The group defines a mass shooting as any in which four or more people are wounded or killed, not including the shooter.

In a statement on Sunday, U.S. President Biden renewed calls for the Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines, as well as to enact universal background checks and end immunity for gun manufacturers.

In a surprise move, a committee of the state House of Representatives on Monday approved legislation to raise the minimum legal age for purchasing certain semi-automatic rifles from 18 to 21 in Texas.

The measure was sponsored by Democratic lawmaker Tracy King, whose district includes the city of Uvalde, where 19 children and two teachers were killed in a mass shooting nearly a year ago. But it is unlikely to pass the Republican-dominated legislature and is opposed by Governor Greg Abbott.

(Reporting by Tyler Clifford in New York and Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Additional reporting by Gabriella Borter in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker and Lincoln Feast.)
First version published at 18:11

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov paid an official visit to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan told Trend.

Topical issues on the agenda of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Lithuania were discussed at the bilateral meeting.

Then the bilateral meeting was continued in an expanded format with the participation of the President's Chief Adviser on Foreign Policy Asta Skaisgiryte.

Azerbaijani FM noted that there is an effective bilateral agenda of cooperation between the two countries in the political, economic, trade, investment, energy security, agriculture, education, humanitarian and other spheres, including within the framework of international organizations, mutual visits play an important role in the development of relations, as well as political dialogue between two countries.

Noting the support of projects implemented by Lithuania in the field of communications within the framework of the EU, the minister said that against the background of ongoing geopolitical changes, the importance of the Caspian region, including the Middle Corridor, also known Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) is increasing even more.

In this context, they expressed confidence that Azerbaijan's efforts to open transport and communications in the region, including the Zangazur Corridor, will be useful in terms of expanding the capabilities of the TITR.

Moreover, Bayramov spoke in detail about the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period (Second Karabakh War), large-scale renovation and construction work carried out by the country in the territories liberated from Armenian occupation, efforts aimed at promoting the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and current challenges, including the mine danger.

The minister pointed out that joint cooperation in the ongoing restoration work and the fight against the mine threat, in particular, will make an important contribution to the establishment of peace and security in the region.

In turn, the Lithuanian side expressed interest in using the existing potential for further development of relations with Azerbaijan. It was noted with satisfaction that the EU Eastern Partnership Program is an important platform for the development of cooperation, and Azerbaijan is a reliable partner, especially in the field of energy security.

Furthermore, highlighting peace-building efforts in the region, the Lithuanian side underlined the importance of commitment to the normalization process and stated that Lithuania supports these efforts.

Both sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
FILE PHOTO: U.S. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks at a press briefing at the White House in Washington, U.S., December 12, 2022. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a visit to the kingdom on Sunday and reviewed what the White House called "significant progress" in Yemen peace efforts, the White House said.

On a trip aimed at bolstering often-frayed ties with Riyadh, Sullivan also held joint talks with the crown prince, UAE national security adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan and India national security adviser Ajit Doval "to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world," the White House said.

Sullivan's meeting came after a period in which U.S.-Saudi ties have been damaged by oil production cuts by Saudi-led OPEC+ and differences over the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

"He reviewed significant progress in talks to further consolidate the now 15-month long truce in Yemen and welcomed ongoing UN-led efforts to bring the war to a close, as well as covering a range of other issues," the White House statement said.

Sullivan, President Joe Biden's top White House national security aide, also thanked the crown prince for Saudi support to U.S. citizens during evacuation from Sudan, the statement added.

U.S. special envoy Tim Lenderking travelled to Oman and Saudi Arabia earlier this month to seek to advance Yemen peace efforts, the State Department said.

A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 after the Iran-aligned Houthis ousted the government from the capital Sanaa.

A Saudi delegation, which is seeking a permanent ceasefire deal to end military involvement in the war, concluded peace talks in mid-April in Sanaa with the Houthi group, whose top negotiator said talks had made progress and further discussions would be held.

Yemen's conflict, which has killed tens of thousands of people and left millions hungry, has widely been seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

A senior Israeli security official said on Friday that Israel was hoping for a breakthrough in efforts to normalize its ties with Saudi Arabia during Sullivan's visit there.

But the White House statement made no mention of Israel.

(Reporting By Matt Spetalnick; Editing by Sandra Maler)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, attends a meeting of the United Nations Security Council on "Effective multilateralism through the defence of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations," at the U.N. hea

By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -U.N. Security Council negotiations on a U.S. push for the 15-member body to condemn North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launches appear to have stalled after diplomats said China and Russia had stopped engaging.

Council members have been discussing a U.S.-drafted formal statement, seen by Reuters, that has to be unanimously agreed upon. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said in February she would pursue a formal presidential statement - one step below a resolution - to condemn North Korea's actions and urge diplomacy.

"The Security Council expresses serious concern over the resulting escalation in tensions and strongly urges the DPRK to refrain from conducting ICBM or other ballistic missile launches or a nuclear test," the draft statement reads.

North Korea's formal name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). It has been under U.N. sanctions for its missile and nuclear programs since 2006.

China's mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the draft. Diplomats said both it and China had initially proposed amendments to the draft, but had now stopped engaging in talks.

The United States "accepted edits from all those who provided them; the very few edits that were not incorporated received pushback from other council members as being unacceptable," said a U.N. diplomat familiar with the talks, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

A spokesperson for Russia's U.N. mission declined to discuss "internal deliberations" of the Security Council, but added that Russia had "always called for the situation on the Korean Peninsula to be discussed in a constructive and comprehensive manner" and for any council action "to yield positive results."

"We are looking forward to the discussions aimed to facilitate easing current tensions, while taking into account all the factors," the Russian U.N. mission spokesperson said.

For the past several years the council has been divided over how to deal with Pyongyang. Russia and China, veto powers along with the United States, Britain and France, have said more sanctions will not help and want such measures to be eased.

China and Russia blame joint military drills by the United States and South Korea for provoking Pyongyang, while Washington accuses Beijing and Moscow of emboldening North Korea by shielding it from more sanctions.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Gerry Doyle)
FILE PHOTO: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attends a meeting of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) leaders in Saint Petersburg, Russia, December 26, 2022. Sputnik/Alexei Danichev/Pool via REUTERS

TASHKENT (Reuters) -Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said on Monday he was calling a snap presidential election on July 9 to give himself a new mandate to help deal with "sharp and complex processes" going on in the world.

Uzbek voters approved a package of constitutional amendments in a referendum on April 30 that allows Mirziyoyev to run for two more terms, and extends each term to seven years from five.

There are no big opposition figures in the Central Asian country of 35 million who could compete with Mirziyoyev, praised both at home and abroad for liberalising the former Soviet republic and opening up its economy to foreign trade and investment.

Mirziyoyev, 65, said that he felt he needed a fresh mandate to carry out further reforms, despite having served less than two years of his current term.

"In the current situation where sharp and complex processes are prevailing in the world and in our region, finding the right and effective path of development and its implementation is becoming the most acute and urgent issue," he said.

Mirziyoyev's executive order published afterwards said the vote would be held on July 9.

(Reporting by Mukhammadsharif Mamatkulov; Editing by Gareth Jones and Nick Macfie)
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(Tribune News Service)  A Virginia company that won a nearly $138 million Air Force Life Cycle Management Center contract will perform the contract work in Dayton, Ohio, the Department of Defense said Friday.

General Dynamics Information Technology, Inc., of Falls Church, Va., has been awarded a $137,861,955 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for services required to develop and sustain the system-of-systems Special Warfare Assault Kit, the DOD said.

This contract provides support for the special warfare acquisition growth, Guardian Angel and tactical air control party modernization programs. Guardian Angels are comprised of combat rescue officers, pararescuemen, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) specialists and others, trained to recover personnel.

Work will be performed in Dayton, the Air Force said, and it's expected to be completed June 15, 2033.

This contract involves foreign military sales to Australia, Bulgaria, India, Bahrain, Bosnia, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Montenegro, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkiye, Estonia, Kenya, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Latvia.

This single-award contract was the result of a competitive source-selection acquisition and five offers were received. Fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation funds in the amount of $250,000 will be obligated at the time of award.

The contract came from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

(c)2023 the Dayton Daily News (Dayton, Ohio)

Visit at www.daytondailynews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A nascent outreach program that brings U.S. airmen stationed at Incirlik Air Base into English language classes in the nearby Turkish city of Adana is looking to come to life again three months after earthquakes devastated the region.

When the main temblor struck Feb. 6, a partnership aimed at bridging the cultural gap between Turks and Americans after years of isolation had just marked its first anniversary.

Tens of thousands of people in Turkey and neighboring Syria were killed during the initial 7.8 magnitude quake and a series of powerful aftershocks, spurring an enormous international relief effort in which Incirlik personnel contributed mightily.

The exchange pairs the Airman Leadership School of the 39th Air Base Wing with the Turkish-American Associations language school in Adana.

Airmen go off base to meet with students ages 10 to 60 about every eight weeks, giving presentations and answering questions on topics ranging from American pop culture to overall life experiences, said Tech. Sgt. Francisco Jimenez, an Airman Leadership School instructor.

The program gives Turkish participants the chance to meet and speak to Americans firsthand, said host nation adviser Mehmet Birbiri, the liaison and guide for the cultural exchange.

The sessions are held in the building of the Turkish-American Association, a nonprofit organization in Adana.

Exchanges through the program help strengthen community ties and broaden airmens understanding of their Turkish neighbors, said Capt. Gerald Peden, a spokesman for the 39th Air Base Wing.

Until recently, such interactions outside Incirliks gate were rare. Thats one reason why both sides are looking to rekindle the program, U.S. officials said last week.

Airmen are planning to restart their visits to the students in June, Jimenez said.

U.S. troops were forbidden from leaving the base beginning in 2016, when deteriorating security in the area led the Pentagon to order nearly 700 family members of military personnel to leave Incirlik and two smaller military installations in Turkey.

Unaccompanied tours of one year became the norm.

That was a shame for all of us really, Birbiri said, that the Americans come here to Incirlik and they are stuck on base, without mingling or exchanging any culture with the locals.

That began to change last year, after the U.S. Consulate in Adana pitched the idea of a culture and language exchange program with Incirlik airmen to the Turkish-American Association, said Erica Marrero, a public affairs officer at the consulate.

The nonprofit organization offers English language courses after school hours, in the evening and on weekends. It was looking for English speakers to practice conversation with their students, and this was a natural fit, Marrero said.

The program also served the consulates public outreach mission in Adana and southeastern Turkey. With only a handful of foreign service officers, the consulate relies on the diversity of experience and backgrounds that Incirlik airmen bring to outreach initiatives, Marrero said.

When airmen first started visiting the school in February 2022, they were among the few interacting with locals off base at the time.

Travel restrictions for airmen began easing last year, with some trips to nearby sites and cities authorized. But the wing began letting airmen visit the nearby community outside the gates only a few weeks before the first earthquake hit.

They were limited to a 10-block area southeast of the base known as American Alley. That access was again temporarily restricted after the earthquakes and has since reopened, Peden said.

But airmen can now travel to certain locations beyond the 10 blocks and throughout Turkey at their leisure or through tours organized by the base recreation center, which have resumed, he said.

Some areas are still off-limits because of safety concerns and a desire to show respect to Turks recovering from the earthquakes, according to Peden.

Meanwhile, the wings round-the-clock relief efforts have scaled down considerably, Peden said. In early March, a 100-bed field hospital in Hatay province was turned over to Turkish authorities.

The 39th Civil Engineer Squadron had helped set up the tent city to offset the loss of 1,500 hospital beds as a result of the quakes.

The Turkish-American Association suspended classes for a little more than a month after the earthquakes out of concern for students and teachers, Marrero said, adding that the building reopened once it was deemed safe.

Jimenez said the partnership helps airmen practice their communication skills. They make a poster about their home state and use it in a group presentation.

They also pair up with a student and together select topics about American culture that will spark a conversation, Jimenez said.

Birbiri has noticed that students tend to be shy when first meeting the Americans.

They warm up quickly, though, and by the end, both sides are shaking hands, hugging each other. Its really a great, successful program, he said.
This story has been corrected

TOKYO  The U.S. Armys top general, during meetings Monday with Japans top military officials, pointed to the war in Ukraine as a warning about the dangers of regional conflicts.

Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville spoke to Minister of Defense Yasukazu Hamada and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces chief of staff, Gen. Yasunori Morishita, at the ministry in Tokyo.

We have seen with the attack on Ukraine that it not only affects Europe, but it affects all our partners around the world, McConville told Hamada at the start of their meeting, with reporters present. That is why it is so important that we dont have any regional conflicts.

Many U.S. defense leaders take seriously a possible Chinese effort to reunify Taiwan by force, based on regular threats by Chinese President Xi Jinping and stepped-up Chinese military activity around the island.

I believe in peace through strength and that strength comes from a strong alliance like we have, McConville told Hamada. We all benefit from having a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Training such as the annual Yama Sakura exercise involving U.S. and Japanese forces help build relationships. Those links are not just between militaries but across the whole of government, he said.

The relationship is as strong as it has ever been, said McConville, who had earlier inspected an honor guard and placed flowers at a memorial to fallen Japanese soldiers.

Hamada presented the American with an award for service to Japan, the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.

I hope we can deepen our collaboration in future, he said.

At the start of another meeting, also with reporters present, Morishita told McConville that Japans army is drastically changing.

Japan has moved to strengthen its military amid a rapid Chinese military buildup and North Korean missile tests.

A national security strategy released by the Ministry of Defense in December includes acquiring counterstrike capabilities to attack enemy bases with missiles.

A defense budget for the current fiscal year totaling $51.4 billion includes $1.59 billion to acquire Tomahawk cruise missiles from the U.S. and $963 million to develop and manufacture improved surface-to-ship guided missiles.

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force would like to contribute to the stability of this region and also global security, Morishita said.

Enhanced cooperation with the U.S. and working with like-minded countries in the region are goals, he said.
FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii  The installation of solar panel clusters is expected to begin in July at 200 homes in the Armys Aliamanu Military Reservation in Honolulu, an energy resiliency project that is planned for thousands of military residences on Oahu.

Lendlease Communities, which operates nearly 8,000 homes on Oahu under a partnership between its subsidiary Island Palm Communities and the U.S. Army, has contracted with Holu Hou Energy, a Delaware-based company, to install photovoltaic and battery systems in four- to six-home clusters on the island.

The panel-battery system within any single cluster is optimally sized so that most of the power generated is used within that group of homes, Brad Hansen, chief executive officer for Holu Hou, said by phone April 14.

Each cluster will use about 75% to 80% of the power generated by its system, he said. Homes remain connected to the grid for shortfalls in the solar supply.

A major investor in Holu Hou, China-based Borqs Technology Inc., is being forced to divest in the company due to national security considerations. Borqs acquired 51% of Holu Hou in October 2021.

Borqs announced in December that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, an inter-agency governmental committee with jurisdiction over foreign acquisitions of U.S. businesses involved with technologies critical to national security, had reviewed the acquisition and required divestiture.

We never had any products or services or anything from Borqs, Hansen said. They were a passive investor, so the unwinding is pretty simple.

First 200 homes

Holu Hou first tested the cluster concept a few years ago at a 134-unit low-income housing development on the island of Kauai, he said. Then, through most of 2022, Holu Hou conducted a pilot project with a cluster of six homes at Aliamanu.

With that successful trial, Lendlease plans to set up clusters throughout all the housing managed by Island Palm Communities on Schofield Barracks, Wheeler Army Air Field, Fort Shafter, Tripler Army Medical Center, Helemano Military Reservation, Red Hill and Aliamanu.

We can get the maximum benefit sharing at about six units, Hansen said. Beyond that, you can add more units if you want, but you've already reached the maximum benefit of the sharing.

Homes will be clustered primarily based upon their proximity. Trenching will be required to bury electric cables connecting the cluster, but groupings will be arranged to avoid trenching across asphalt as much as possible.

Holu Hou is partnering with at least two large Hawaii-based firms to perform the installations.

Work on the first 200 homes is expected to begin in July and be completed by the end of the year, Hansen said.

Solar sweet spot

Multi-dwelling unit housing has been a dead space for the solar industry until now, Hansen said.

The most difficult thing to do in solar is put it on multi-dwelling unit properties, especially rental properties, where you've got load uncertainty, he said. You can have a high-load tenant or family on one month, and the next month a low load tenant lives in that unit.

Clustering creates a more stable load.

You want to get 75 to 80% of the electricity for the residents to be coming from solar, he said. That's kind of the magic number. The sharing allows you to do that and be at that sweet spot while not exporting [to the main grid]  because in California or Hawaii you dont get paid very much for that.

In 2015, the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission issued a rule that slashed the amount customers could get for exporting surplus solar energy to Hawaiian Electric Co., which supplies most of the states electricity.

More stable grid

Hawaiis electricity prices are roughly three times the U.S. national average, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. In September, Hawaiian Electric ended the use of its last coal-fired power plant and forecasted an average increase of 7% for individual electric bills.

The state is working toward transitioning its energy generation to 100% renewable sources by 2045.

Were providing backup power to our residents so if there's a power outage, they essentially are not impacted by that, Matt Lynn, senior vice president of energy and utilities for Lendlease, told Stars and Stripes in January.

These systems can help to stabilize the electrical grid on the island by lowering demand on the grid to help avoid power outages in the future, he said.
Mainz, West Germany, November 1980: Pope John Paul II hails the crowd of more than 200,000 people  an estimated 6,000 of them Americans  during a Mass in windy, rainy weather at the U.S. Army's Mainz-Finthen airfield. The pontiff was on a five-day, seven-city visit to West Germany.

Looking for Stars and Stripes historic coverage? Subscribe to Stars and Stripes historic newspaper archive! We have digitized our 1948-1999 European and Pacific editions, as well as several of our WWII editions and made them available online through https://starsandstripes.newspaperarchive.com/
KYIV, Ukraine  Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesdays annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones and ride-sharing services in its largest cities  even jet skis on the canals of St. Petersburg  amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities canceled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which hasnt witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

The fears of a possible Ukrainian attack appeared real, even though parades will go ahead in Russias largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities ahead of Victory Day.

In St. Petersburg, often referred to as Venice of the north for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city is prohibited through May 10. In the Russian capital, car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city center  drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there  amid preparations for the traditional Red Square parade.

Initially, only one foreign leader was expected to attend this years Moscow parade  Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, who arrived Monday and met Putin for talks. That was one more foreign guest than last year, when no leaders went amid Putins broad diplomatic isolation over the war. The Kremlin at the time said it hadnt invited any because it wasnt a round-number anniversary.

But on Monday officials announced that Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon would be joining Putin and Zhaparov at the festivities, along with Armenias prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, and Kazakhstans leader, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

Late Monday, Belarusian media said that countrys president, Alexander Lukashenko, had arrived in Moscow to attend the parade. His presence is significant because Russia bases troops and arms being used in Ukraine in Belarus, and Putin said in March that tactical nuclear weapons would be placed there.

Pashinyan and Tokayev were surprising choices for the guest list as they have in the past diverged from Putins line. Kazakhstan and Armenia, though Russian allies, havent publicly supported the war in Ukraine. In fact, Tokayev has spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone several times throughout the invasion.

Tokayev also told Putin last summer that Kazakhstan wouldnt recognize the Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

Armenia is a member of the Russian-dominated Collective Security Treaty Organization, but Pashinyan snubbed Moscow earlier this year by refusing to host the alliances military drills.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8, and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Zelenskyy equated Russias goals in Ukraine to those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is due to travel to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Zelenskyy.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlins forces killed four civilians, officials said Monday.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Russia has faced economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains because of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Moscow has routinely turned to Iranian Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said. Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said. One person was killed and three others were wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the front-line southern Zaporizhzhia region, toward the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city about 60 miles to the southeast, it said.

On Friday, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially-occupied Zaporizhzhia region ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there, including Enerhodar, which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to the occupied Crimean Peninsula.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan strongly condemns the staged "trial" in Armenia against Azerbaijani army soldiers Agshin Babirov and Huseyn Akhundov, and the so-called "decision" to arrest Babirov, Trend reports.

Armenia, by subjecting Azerbaijani soldiers to cruel physical torture, also subjects them to moral and psychological torture through such a "judicial process".

"By its irresponsible behavior, Armenia once again demonstrates a disregard for the legal responsibility it bears in accordance with international humanitarian law, the calls of the international community for the release of hostages, and the principles of humanism.

The fact that the Armenian side, having taken such actions, did not show a mutual attitude in connection with the confidence-building measures taken by our country without any preconditions for the return of Armenians, in particular more than 10 Armenian servicemen who got lost and crossed the border, indicates that Armenia is not interested in measures to establish peace and trust in the region. The responsibility for undermining efforts to build trust with such an approach lies entirely with the Armenian side.

Armenia must put an end to this subversive activity, accompanied by gross violations of international humanitarian law, and immediately release the hostages.

We call on the international community, relevant international organizations, and non-governmental organizations to exert serious influence and pressure on Armenia so that our soldiers who are being held hostage will be released soon and reunited with their families," the ministry said in the statement.
MEXICO CITY  Mexico's president said Monday he will talk with U.S. President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programs to help stem the flow of migrants to the U.S. border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the U.S. border.

"Don't allow yourselves to be fooled," Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. "Don't allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk."

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the U.S. government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people won't have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by U.S. Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

"This really degrades them, morally," he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied.
BEIJING  China's foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must "reflect deeply" before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said.

Qin Gang's comments follow a suspension of serious dialogue on a range of issues between the world's largest economies, increasingly at odds over tariffs, attempts by Washington to deprive China of cutting-edge technology, and China's claims to self-governing Taiwan and large parts of the South and East China Seas.

China's Foreign Ministry quoted Qin as telling Ambassador Nicolas Burns that a "series of erroneous words and deeds by the U.S." since a meeting in November between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping "have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations."

"The U.S. side should reflect deeply, meet China halfway, and propel China-U.S. relations out of the difficulties and back on the right track," Qin was quoted as saying.

The United States should "correct its understanding of China and return to rationality," Qin said, repeating his earlier accusation that the U.S. is attempting to suppress and contain China. Beijing routinely cites U.S. political and military support of Taiwan as infringing on its sovereignty.

Qin said ties had "grown icy" and the priority was to stabilize them "and avoid a downward spiral and unanticipated events."

The U.S. should stop "undermining China's sovereignty, security, and development interests," particularly through support of Taiwan's independent identity, Qin said.

China says Taiwan must come under its rule, by force if necessary, while the United States says the relationship between the sides must be resolved peaceably. U.S. law requires it to treat threats to Taiwan, including a military blockade, as a matter of "grave concern," though it remains ambiguous under what conditions U.S. forces could be dispatched to defend the island.

Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, the U.S. is Taiwan's largest supplier of military hardware and diplomatic support, even while it continues to maintain relations with Beijing. Biden has been seen as going a step further by repeatedly saying that the U.S. would back Taiwan militarily, and America has been upgrading basing arrangements with the Philippines, located just south of Taiwan.

U.S.-China military contacts have been on hold for years, and China's top staff refused to answer a call from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after then-Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last year. China retaliated for the visit by staging a naval and air force blockade of Taiwan and cutting off channels of communication with the U.S. on issues from environmental protection to maritime security.

At a daily briefing Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin described the meeting between Qin and Burns as "a normal diplomatic arrangement."

In a tweet, Burns said he met with Qin and "discussed challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication."

In comments to a U.S. think tank last week, Burns said Washington has been consistent in its approach toward Taiwan and insists that "any resolution of the (cross-Taiwan Strait) differences has to be peaceful."

"We hope that the government here in China will commit itself to a peaceful resolution of the dispute," Burns said in an online discussion with the Washington-based Stimson Center.

The U.S. "has the obligation as well as the interest to make sure that we can provide defensive arms to Taiwan so that the Taiwan authorities can have a proper defense and we can help them build up a deterrence," he said.

"If Taiwan has a sufficient deterrence in place, and if other countries around the world are supporting a peaceful resolution, one would hope that that would lead the Chinese to understand the consequences of the use of force in the Taiwan Strait," Burns said.

Contacts between Washington and Beijing have been fraught for months since U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a Beijing trip aimed at easing U.S.-China tensions in February. That came after a large high-altitude Chinese balloon was shot down after it sailed across the U.S., drawing Pentagon accusations of spying on sensitive military sites despite firm Chinese denials.

Qin was due to depart Monday for visits to Germany, France and Norway amid China's fraying relations with Europe over alleged unfair trade practices, human rights abuses and Beijing's support for Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Chinese President Xi and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, declared their governments had a "no limits" friendship before Moscow's February 2022 attack on Ukraine. Beijing has refused to criticize the Kremlin over the invasion but has tried to appear neutral and has called for a cease-fire and peace talks.
TOKYO  Japan marked the end of an era Monday by declaring COVID-19 a disease on par with influenza, dealing an end to years of restrictive public measures designed to curb its spread.

The announcement by Japans Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, which was planned weeks in advance, follows a declaration Friday by the World Health Organization ending more than three years of a worldwide public health emergency.

COVID-19 is now an established and ongoing health issue which no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern, according to a statement from WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. WHO declared the public health emergency in January 2020, and in March 2020 began referring to it as a pandemic.

By downgrading COVID-19, the Japanese government may no longer legally restrict public movement to prevent the spread of infection. Preventative measures will be an individual responsibility, according to the Health Ministry.

"In principle, the decision regarding preventative measures will be left to the judgment of individuals and businesses," the Cabinet Secretarys website states.

However, the ministry still recommends measures such as proper ventilation and washing and sanitizing hands as effective in preventing infection.

Television news in Tokyo on Monday showed convenience store clerks taking down plastic partitions at cashier counters and clerks without masks serving customers. Reports also showed many commuters on public transportation still wearing masks.

The Japanese government on March 13 had already lifted the mask restriction. It also lifted all border control measures on April 29, allowing travelers to enter Japan without showing proof of taking a series of three vaccinations nor proof of a negative test result prior to arrival.

The new policy also means that anyone infected with COVID-19 is no longer required to stay home for five days but should stay home, the same procedure for seasonal influenza, according to the Health Ministry. Close contacts of those infected also do not have to stay home.

Japan had counted 33.8 million COVID-19 cases and 74,654 deaths as of Sunday.
YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  Navy aviators from Carrier Air Wing 5 are slated to fly to Iwo Jima on Tuesday for 10 days of carrier landing practice ahead of the USS Ronald Reagans summer deployment, Naval Forces Japan announced Monday.

Pilots and crew of fixed-wing aircraft based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, such as F/A-18 Super Hornets and EA-18 Growlers, must complete the required practice, or FCLP, before the aircraft carrier can get underway.

During their time on the island, senior pilots will fly at least six sorties  three during the day and three at night  and complete seven to eight touch-and-go landings. Junior pilots will undergo more extensive training and may complete 12 or more touch-and-goes per sortie.

The U.S. Navy has conducted carrier-landing training on Iwo Jima, also known as Iwo To, for Carrier Air Wing 5 since 1991, but it considers Iwo Jima unsuitable for the training due to difficulty in maintaining its remote facilities and a lack of alternate landing fields.

In the event of bad weather, pilots will relocate to other U.S. airfields in Japan, such as Yokota Air Base or Misawa Air Base, according to the announcement. However, local communities often object to the noise associated with flight operations, which Naval Forces Japan promised to minimize while balancing our obligation to maintain operational readiness, according to the announcement.

The Japanese Defense Ministry plans to develop a new site for U.S. carrier landing practice on Mageshima, an island 20 miles south of Kyushu, the southernmost of Japans four main islands. It was scheduled to complete an environmental impact assessment of the site in March before beginning construction of an installation expected to cost about $1.6 billion, according to public broadcaster NHK in November.

The Ronald Reagan has been at Yokosuka, homeport of the U.S. 7th Fleet, since Dec. 16, when it concluded its last deployment. Once the ships crew completes its remaining preparations, which often include one or two weeks of sea trials, the carrier will likely depart for this years patrol.

The patrols typically last around six months.
NAPLES, Italy  Russias military was making its presence felt in international waters near northern Europe as the U.S. and its NATO allies prepared for a missile defense exercise that began Monday in the North Atlantic.

Formidable Shield includes live-fire events against subsonic, supersonic and ballistic missiles, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet said in a statement Saturday. It runs through May 26, according to the statement.

New NATO member Finland is a notable participant in the exercise, which has drawn 13 allied and partner nations. The accession of Finland, which has an 800-mile-long border with Russia, was a direct result of the Kremlins full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

On Friday, the Russian intelligence collection vessel Yuriy Ivanov was spotted leaving the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar.

That departure was the latest in a series involving ships assigned to Moscows Mediterranean task force in recent weeks, including the frigate Admiral Grigorovich.

It also dovetails with the arrival of at least seven Russian ships operating last week in the North Sea near Norway, open-source intelligence analysts on Twitter recently noted.

Those ships included the Grigorovich, four corvettes, an oiler and a tugboat, according to a tweet Thursday by analyst H. I. Sutton on his account @CovertShores.

Analysts reported on Twitter on Monday afternoon that some Russian ships, including the Grigorovich, had left the North Sea.

The arrival of the Russian ships, along with allied vessels, was to be anticipated over the next few weeks, the Norwegian armed forces said Thursday on its official Twitter account, @Forsvaret_no.

NATO has grown increasingly concerned about Russian naval activity in the North Atlantic, especially submarines.

Last month, Iceland for the first time granted U.S. nuclear submarines permission for periodic supply stops and personnel swaps in an effort to strengthen surveillance and response capabilities.

The reasons behind the recent buildup of Russian ships in the North Sea were unclear, but the most likely explanation at this state is an unannounced exercise, Sutton said in a post Wednesday on his Covert Shores blog.

The biennial Formidable Shield will include more than 20 ships, 35 aircraft and nearly 4,000 personnel, according to the Navys statement.

Among U.S. forces participating are Arleigh-Burke class destroyers USS Porter and USS Oscar Austin, a Marine Corps high-mobility artillery rocket system platoon and Air Force F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, 6th Fleet spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Tyler Barker said Sunday.
This story has been corrected

BELGRADE, Serbia  Thousands marched in silence on Monday in Serbia in a major outpouring of grief and anger against the populist government and how it reacted after two mass shootings last week that left 17 people dead and 21 wounded, many of them children.

The gatherings in Belgrade and the northern city of Novi Sad were dubbed "Serbia against violence." They were called by opposition parties, which demanded the resignations of government ministers and the withdrawal licenses to the state controlled mainstream media that promote violence and often host convicted war criminals and crime figures on their programs.

After the protest officially ended, some of the protesters chanted slogans against Serbia's increasingly autocratic president, Aleksandar Vucic, demanding that he step down, as they passed by government headquarters in Belgrade.

The president later dismissed the protest as "shameful" during an interview on pro-government Happy television. He accused the opposition of abusing people's grief for their political ends and inciting violence.

"It's pure politics," said Vucic, also describing the organizers as "vultures."

The shootings  on Wednesday in Belgrade at an elementary school, and on Thursday in a rural area south of the capital  left the nation stunned. They triggered calls to encourage tolerance and rid society of widespread hate speech and a gun culture stemming from the 1990s wars.

Education Minister Branko Ruzic submitted his resignation on Sunday and authorities launched a gun crackdown, but opposition said this was too little, too late.

There were no official estimates of crowds that streamed into central Belgrade streets on Monday evening, but observers described the gathering as the biggest in years against Vucic and his government. In Novi Sad, participants held a banner reading "Everything has to stop" and threw flowers into the Danube River to commemorate those killed in the shootings.

"We have to learn anew how to speak to each other and how to create a healthy future ... to nurture the beauty of living, of art, science and humanity," said Biljana Stojkovic, a leader of the leftist Zajedno, or Together, party. "The worst among us have been in power for an entire decade, and they imposed the norms of aggression, intolerance, crime and lies."

One of the largest anti-government protest in recent years in Serbia also reflected how rattled the nation has been by the shootings.

The school shooting on Wednesday was the first in Serbia's recent history. A 13-year-old boy took his father's guns and opened fire at the school he attended in the heart of Belgrade, shooting at his peers and killing seven girls, one boy and a school guard.

A day later, a 20-year-old man used an automatic weapon in a shooting rampage in two villages in central Serbia, randomly killing eight people and wounding 14. Prosecutors said that he has confessed to the killings and said he wanted to spread fear among residents, state media have reported.

Earlier on Monday, police deployed in schools throughout Serbia in an effort to restore a shaken sense of security as children largely returned to classes. Teams of experts have been sent with the backing of U.N. children's agency UNICEF, offering support and guidelines for children, their parents and teachers.

Thousands have lit candles and left messages, toys and flowers to commemorate the victims. On Monday, a police officer stood in silence at the entrance of Vladislav Ribnikar school, where students are set to gradually start returning on Wednesday.

Also Monday, people who own unlicensed guns can start handing them over at police stations without punishment. Other new gun-control measures include a moratorium on new licenses, strict control of existing ones and the tightening of rules for gun possession, which officials say will leave many current gun owners without weapons.

Independent international surveys have put Serbia among the top countries in Europe for gun ownership per capita. Gun control has been loose since the 1990s Yugoslav wars, when many brought back weapons from battlefields.

Vucic has said there are around 400,000 registered gun owners in Serbia, but many more own guns illegally.

Serbia has never faced up to its role in the conflict against other ethnic groups of the former Yugoslavia. Right-wing and nationalist sentiments have been on the rise and war criminals are regarded as heroes rather than villains, with many retaining public roles after serving their sentences.

On Monday, a group of activists painted a red heart over a mural honoring wartime Bosnian Serb army commander Ratko Mladic, who is serving life in prison for genocide in Bosnia on a U.N. court conviction. The mural, located just a few blocks from the school where the shooting took place, surfaced months ago and previous attempts to remove it were thwarted by masked thugs.

Dusan Stojanovic contributed to this report.
BEIRUT  Airstrikes over southern Syria early Monday killed one of the country's most well-known drug dealers, an opposition war monitor and a pro-government radio station reported.

The rare attack came days after Jordan warned it would use force inside Syria to eliminate drug trafficking to its territories and from there to oil-rich Arab gulf nations.

The strikes also come a day after Arab governments reinstated Syria to the Arab League following the country's suspension for its crackdown on protests that ultimately led to a lengthy civil war. As Arab governments gradually rekindle ties with Damascus, one of the key topics of discussion has been Syria's illicit drug industry, which has flourished during the ongoing conflict  especially the illegal amphetamine Captagon.

Western governments estimate that Captagon has generated billions of dollars in revenue for President Bashar Assad, his Syrian associates and allies. Damascus has denied the accusations.

The first strike hit a home in the Syrian village of Shuab in Sweida province near the Jordanian border, killing Merhi al-Ramthan, his wife and six children, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The opposition war monitor and Sham FM reported another strike in the southern province of Daraa that hit a building. The Observatory said the building housed a drug factory.

Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist who covers developments in southern Syria, also said that one strike killed al-Ramthan and his family in Sweida province. He said the other hit a facility in Daraa province used by Iran-backed groups to produce and store drugs before smuggling them to Jordan. He said the strikes happened before dawn Monday, igniting a fire at the drug facility in Daraa province.

The pro-government radio station did not give any further details. There was no immediate comment from either Jordanian or Syrian authorities.

Activists and the war monitor said they believe Jordan is likely behind the airstrike, with the Captagon producer among the most wanted by Jordanian authorities for facilitating drug smuggling across the border with the backing of a small militia. They also say al-Ramthan is close with militias linked to Assad and the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah.

Jordanian state media shared news of the airstrike, but only cited Syrian media and added that al-Ramthan was wanted by Jordanian authorities. Jordan's foreign minister at a press conference Monday following a meeting with his Dutch counterpart said Syria had committed to cooperating with Arab countries on drug smuggling during last week's talks in Amman, and that he will call his counterpart in Damascus to "translate this agreement into a clear mechanism."

"Whenever we take any steps to protect our national security and facing any threats towards it, we announce it at the appropriate time," Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. "When it comes to the case of drugs, as we said before, the surge in drug smuggling is a huge threat to the kingdom, the region, and the world."

Last week, Safadi warned that his country will not stand idle if drug trafficking continues from Syria.

"We are not taking the threat of drug smuggling lightly," Safadi told CNN last week. "If we do not see effective measures to curb that threat, we will do what it takes to counter that threat, including taking military action inside Syria to eliminate this extremely dangerous threat.

"For us, it is a must that we end this crisis because we've suffered tremendously from its consequences," he said.

Al-Masalameh, the opposition activist, said: "The war planes were believed to be Jordanian following the threats by the foreign minister."

Jordan has frequently reported busting drug smuggling operations on its border with Syria, with its soldiers sometimes engaging in shootouts with drug cartels trying to break through from southern Syria. In recent years, Jordanian authorities have discovered millions of smuggled Captagon pills, many of which were sent to oil-rich gulf nations.

Both Syria and neighboring Lebanon have become gateways for the drug to the wider Middle East, and particularly to the the Gulf.

In March, the U.S. and U.K. slapped sanctions on four Syrians and two Lebanese involved in manufacturing and trafficking Captagon.

The six included cousins of the Syrian president and well-known Lebanese drug kingpins. Weeks later, the European Union imposed sanctions on several Syrians, including members of Assad's family, blaming them for the production and trafficking of narcotics, notably Captagon.

Associated Press writer Albert Aji contributed to this report from Damascus, Syria.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  Iran hanged two men Monday convicted of blasphemy, authorities said, carrying out rare death sentences for the crime as executions surge across the Islamic Republic following months of unrest.

Iran remains one of the world's top executioners, having put to death at least 203 prisoners since the start of this year alone, according to the Oslo-based group Iran Human Rights. But carrying out executions for blasphemy remains rare, as previous cases saw the sentences reduced by authorities.

The two men executed, Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare, died at Arak Prison in central Iran. They had been arrested in May 2020, accused of being involved in a channel on the Telegram message app called "Critique of Superstition and Religion," according to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. Both men faced months of solitary confinement and could not contact their families, the commission said.

"It is of extreme concern to us. I don't believe this is just a one-off event," Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, a member of the Congressionally mandated commission, told The Associated Press. "I think that there is a sense that Iran is increasingly desperate. And when we know authoritarian theocracies are desperate, they often turn to very, very extreme acts."

The Mizan news agency of Iran's judiciary confirmed the executions, describing the two men as having insulted Islam's Prophet Muhammad and promoted atheism. Mizan also accused them of burning a Quran, Islam's holy book, though it wasn't clear whether the men allegedly did that or such imagery was shared in the Telegram channel.

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads Iran Human Rights, decried the executions as exposing the "medieval nature" of Iran's theocracy.

"The international community must show with its reaction that executions for expressing an opinion is intolerable," he said in a statement. "The refusal of the international community to react decisively is a green light for the Iranian government and all their like-minded people around the world."

It wasn't immediately clear when Iran carried out its last execution for blasphemy. Other countries in the Middle East, like Saudi Arabia, also allow for death sentences to be imposed for blasphemy.

The streak of executions, including members of ethnic minority groups in Iran, comes as monthslong protests over the September death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini after her arrest by the country's morality police have cooled. Already, at least four people charged over alleged crimes from the demonstrations have been put to death. The protests, which reportedly saw over 500 people killed and 19,000 others arrested, marked one of the biggest challenges to Iran's theocracy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Kleinbaum called on the White House to condemn the execution and further sanction Iran, as well as push for Russia and China to allow the United Nations Security Council to refer Tehran to the International Criminal Court.

"This level of cruelty indicates that Iran's government is desperate to maintain power through force, and we condemn it," she said.

State Department deputy spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters in Washington that the U.S. condemned the executions. "These latest executions are a grave reminder of the Iranian regime's penchant for abusing and violating the human rights of the Iranian people," he said.

In 2022, Iran executed at least 582 people, up from 333 people in 2021, according to Iran Human Rights. Amnesty International's most-recent report on executions put Iran as the world's second-largest executioner, behind only China, where thousands are believed to be put to death a year.

While some executions are publicized, others are not in Iran.

Many have been for drug-related offenses, but there also have been executions of a British-Iranian accused of spying and another of a Swedish-Iranian convicted of masterminding a 2018 attack on a military parade that killed at least 25.

A German-Iranian who lives in California, Jamshid Sharmahd, also faces a looming execution as tensions remain high between Tehran and the West over its accelerating nuclear program. The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said he spoke Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian about Sharmahd and "asked Iran not to execute" him.

Human Rights Activists in Iran, another group monitoring the Islamic Republic, warned last week about the "alarming surge" in executions.

"Iranian authorities have an absolute obligation to uphold international human rights standards and instead, there is ongoing impunity for grave violations of the right to life  and more," said Skylar Thompson, the head of global advocacy and accountability at the group.

Associated Press writer Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.
ISLAMABAD  Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistan's volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday "held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides "reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. "During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed," it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment." Munir sought enhanced cooperation to "effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

Pakistan has lately expressed concern over a surge of deadly attacks across the country by the Pakistani Taliban  an independent militant group that is allied with and sheltered by the Afghan Taliban.

Islamabad has demanded from the Taliban in Kabul that they do more to rein in anti-Pakistani groups such as the Pakistani Taliban  also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP  which have stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.
NOVI, Mich. (Tribune News Service)  Vivek Ramaswamy, a former biotechnology and finance executive who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, called Sunday for dismantling the "climate cult" and restoring faith in the three branches of government during a campaign stop in Michigan.

Although President Joe Biden and Democrats are seeking ways to move the economy toward a carbon neutral basis, Ramaswamy emphasized that he isn't necessarily looking for ways to cut carbon dioxide emissions through government policies.

"As the next president, I will abandon the anticarbon framework as it exists," he said Sunday. "We will rescind any mandate to measure carbon dioxide initiatives."

Ramaswamy, 37, is one of three challengers so far to former President Donald Trump in the GOP race. He has cast himself as embracing Trump's America First agenda but without the divisiveness of the former president, who has been pilloried for causing the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol and who is facing business-related criminal charges in New York City.

Referring frequently to Biblical passages, Ramaswamy, a Harvard and Yale Law School graduate from Ohio, told the crowd of about 250 people at the Suburban Collection Showcase in Novi about growing up as a Cincinnati-born son of Indian immigrants.

Ramaswamy founded Roivant Sciences, a multibillion dollar biotech company, and Strive, an Ohio-based asset management firm that says it targets investor "who don't want their investments and retirement accounts to be used to push political agendas onto American companies."

Ramaswamy said he plans to go further with Trump's America First agenda but rely less on the politics of grievance and retribution. He said he would strengthen the military, push for justice reform and shut down the U.S. Department of Education.

The Education Department, Ramaswamy said, uses taxpayers' dollars to force radical gender ideologies in public schools across the nation that compromise American ideals.

"When you have government agency that should have never existed, there is exactly one answer for the U.S. Department of Education: We will shut it down," he said, referring to the department that was created during the Jimmy Carter administration of the late 1970s.

"I'm in this to go the distance for the country," said Ramaswamy, who is helping to bankroll his own campaign and was making his second Michigan stop of the day after campaigning in Howell.

Trump is leading in the polls for the GOP nomination race, which includes former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Halley and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Former Vice President Mike Pence and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis have both visited Michigan in the past few months but have not announced their candidacies.

Another attendee was Rahul Chamarthi, 27, of Royal Oak, who said he's noticed how his Generation Z has popularized attacking America. He said while citizens are to be critical in a constructive way, they should only do so as a way to make the country better.

"The vision that Vivek has, and the central part of his campaign, seems to be about reviving American identity, and that really resonates with me," Chamarthi said.

In the audience was David Potts, a former Oakland County commissioner who said he thinks Ramaswamy is too young and politically inexperienced for the presidency.

"There's nothing like experience; he's never held an elected political office, and his time is not yet," Potts said. "He's at less than 1% in the polls and it takes 51% to get nominated."

A national CBS/YouGov poll released Monday showed 58% of likely Republican primary voters would vote for Trump with DeSantis trailing at 22%. Ramaswamy and Pence each polled at 5%. The poll of 2,372 voters had a margin of error of plus-minus 3.1 percentage points.

After the event in Novi, Ramaswamy made clear that one of his central campaign themes is to restore America's character.

"We're staying true to the actual vision of how we rediscover what America is," he told The Detroit News.

"Winning the primary, winning the general (elections) those aren't destinations; those are milestones. Nine and a half years from now, I want to leave this country in the same place of national character that (Ronald) Reagan left it in January of 1989; that's my goal."

Trump has said he wouldn't participate in the first Republican presidential debate scheduled for August.

Ramaswamy told The News on Friday that he was advising Michigan Republicans to hold a primary election to allocate delegates instead of a convention or a caucus for the presidential nomination.

"It's pretty key to not have a convention because that would be, to me, a signal that the party is captured by Trump," Ramaswamy said. "I think that if they are really committed to showing that this isn't some sort of ... staged process but is actually real and authentic, I think you need to have a primary election and apportion the delegates proportionately."

The Michigan Republican Party has not decided yet whether to hold a primary next year. Traditionally, the party has held presidential primaries. But the Democrat-controlled Michigan Legislature has moved the date of the state's primary up to Feb. 27, a date that conflicts with the national GOP's order.

"One solution is to have a caucus, where it will be delegates voting on who the Republican nominee for president is in our state," Michigan Republican Party Chairwoman Kristina Karamo said in March. "So that's some conversation that's being had."

Under a caucus setup, the Michigan GOP could put limitations on who participates. The party could also choose to hold a convention where a group of about 2,000 delegates gets to vote on the presidential contest.

A primary would be the fair way, Ramaswamy said. If Michigan has a primary, he plans to spend a lot of time in the state, he added.

Ramaswamy, who has degrees from Harvard and Yale and founded an asset management firm, described himself as the "real outsider" in the race for president and the first millennial Republican to seek the job.

"I will take the America first agenda further than Donald Trump did," he said. "But I will also unite the country in the process. Because I am doing it based on first, principles and moral authority, not just based on vengeance and grievance. And I think that's something that people are hungry for."

___

(c)2023 The Detroit News

Visit The Detroit News at www.detnews.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
First version published at 19:41

BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan strongly condemns the staged "trial" in Armenia against Azerbaijani army soldiers Agshin Babirov and Huseyn Akhundov, and the so-called "decision" to arrest Babirov, Trend reports.

Armenia, by subjecting Azerbaijani soldiers to cruel physical torture, also subjects them to moral and psychological torture through such a "judicial process".

"By its irresponsible behavior, Armenia once again demonstrates a disregard for the legal responsibility it bears in accordance with international humanitarian law, the calls of the international community for the release of hostages, and the principles of humanism.

The fact that the Armenian side, having taken such actions, did not show a mutual attitude in connection with the confidence-building measures taken by our country without any preconditions for the return of Armenians, in particular more than 10 Armenian servicemen who got lost and crossed the border, indicates that Armenia is not interested in measures to establish peace and trust in the region. The responsibility for undermining efforts to build trust with such an approach lies entirely with the Armenian side.

Armenia must put an end to this subversive activity, accompanied by gross violations of international humanitarian law, and immediately release the hostages.

We call on the international community, relevant international organizations, and non-governmental organizations to exert serious influence and pressure on Armenia so that our soldiers who are being held hostage will be released soon and reunited with their families," the ministry said in the statement.
(Tribune News Service)  The Biden administration will allow Afghans who were evacuated during the withdrawal of U.S. troops to remain in the United States for longer than the initial two-year temporary permits.

The Department of Homeland Security announced the move Friday and said that Afghans who received temporary parole into the United States as part of Operation Allies Welcome will soon be able to request renewals of that parole to extend their permission to be in the U.S. DHS encouraged Afghans who have not yet received permanent permission to stay in the United States to apply for renewals.

DHS said each renewal would be considered on a case-by-case basis.

"The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to the continued safety, security, and well-being of the thousands of Afghan nationals who arrived in the United States through (Operation Allies Welcome) and continue to through Enduring Welcome," DHS said in a press release.

The department said that more details about the re-parole process would be available soon and that the department will host Afghan Support Centers across the country beginning on May 17 in Phoenix. The centers will offer information about immigration and social services available to Afghan newcomers with support from both government staff and nongovernmental organizations.

Roughly 88,500 Afghans have come to the United States through September of last year under Operation Allies Welcome, according to the department.

Evacuees were initially given permission to be in the United States for two years. Those parole permits will begin to expire later this year, meaning that evacuated Afghans would no longer have valid work permits and could face deportation for being in the United States without permission.

Some are eligible to apply for Special Immigrant Visas, which are given to Afghans who worked with the U.S. military and meet certain criteria. Others have requested asylum.

Both Special Immigrant Visas and asylum processing take time, and the renewal of parole is the department's solution for Afghans whose cases are still pending or who have not yet applied for permanent status.

Legislation that would grant permanent residency to evacuated Afghans, known as the Afghan Adjustment Act, has stalled in Congress.

It is not clear how long the parole renewals will extend the stay of evacuees. DHS said more details would be announced soon.

2023 The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Visit sandiegouniontribune.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The mass killing Saturday at an outlet mall in the Dallas suburb of Allen, Texas, that left at least eight dead was the second-deadliest in the United States in 2023  a year on pace to set a modern record.

So far this year, the country has recorded 22 mass killings  all involving guns  that collectively have resulted in at least 115 deaths, according to a database maintained by the Associated Press, USA Today and Northeastern University.

This is more than double the number of mass killings recorded by this point last year, which was eight. In all of 2022, there were a total of 36 mass killings by gunfire in the United States, which resulted in at least 186 deaths, according to the database. This was the highest number recorded since 2006, when data on such incidents started being tracked.

The Washington Post defines a mass killing as an event in which four or more people, not including the shooter, have been killed by gunfire. The death counts do not include the shooter.

James Alan Fox, a professor of criminology at Northeastern University and one of the experts behind the database tracking mass killings, said that 2023 is "the worst that we've seen at least since 2006."

"And probably ever," he said. "I've been studying this topic for 40 years, and this is worse."

Still, Fox cautioned that it was not yet certain that 2023 would set a record. "Even though we feel that way, [mass killings are a] rare event, and you can get fooled by clusters," he said. "But one thing that is certain is we, on average, we have six public mass killings a year," he added. "We've already had six this year. So we've already raised the average."

Katherine Schweit, a retired FBI agent who started the agency's active shooter program after the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in Newtown, Conn., said that while the numbers are alarming, they don't tell the whole story.

"Oftentimes, we're very wrapped up in the 'highest' and the 'most' and the 'biggest,' cause maybe that's the way we see things in America," Schweit said. "But if you plow through the numbers, and see what type of gun violence it is  and that takes time to do  I think that's more helpful and valuable to us."

Schweit said she doesn't want to disregard the number of mass killings in the country but said she wants Americans "to look beyond the numbers as a country, as a population and say: 'What am I doing in my neighborhood that might be helping reduce these numbers?' or, you know, 'What is happening in my town?'"

She argued that many Americans don't feel safe or are otherwise on edge - which, in turn, increases the risk of more gun violence.

"That's the challenge  when the numbers are the headline all the time, then the challenge is that everybody thinks that we are living in the Wild West and you have to have a gun to go to the grocery store, or you have to have a gun to, you know, take your kid to school or to the park," Schweit said. People "who don't have any past experience with weapons are now buying firearms and carrying them everywhere."

On Saturday, a gunman opened fire at Allen Premium Outlets, killing at least eight, including children, and injuring at least seven others before being fatally shot by a police officer. The incident became the sixth mass killing in the country this year that occurred in a public location, such as a business.

The shooting in Allen is the third mass killing recorded in Texas this year. In 2022, Texas recorded six mass killings by gun - the most of any single state.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R), who has long been a defender of gun rights, told Fox News on Sunday that his priority in response to mass killings has been to address mental health crises rather than to tighten gun restrictions. Gun safety advocates have cited research showing that stricter gun laws could lessen the severity of mass killings and may decrease overall gun violence.

Just a little over a week ago, on April 28, a man killed five people, including a 9-year-old boy, with an AR-15-style weapon in Cleveland, Texas. Of the 22 mass killings so far this year, 15 have been in residences. While that's not particularly unusual  last year 23 of the 36 mass killings were in residences  it highlights the fact that most of the recorded mass killings have not been indiscriminate public events.

Fox noted that many Americans worry about shootings in public settings, despite the fact that public mass killings remain "relatively rare."

"I don't want to minimize the pain or the suffering from these victims," Fox said. "But it is still rare."

The Washington Post's John Harden contributed to this report.
AUSTIN, Texas  More than 500 additional National Guard troops from Texas will deploy to the states border with Mexico as an increase in migration and illegal activity is expected when pandemic-era immigration policies end this week, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Monday.

Speaking at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport where Texas Guard members were busy loading C-130 aircraft and Black Hawk helicopters, Abbott said the troops will deploy to areas along the Rio Grande where there are increases of illegal activity including drugs and weapons smuggling and human trafficking.

The 545 troops deploying are part of a newly formed Texas Tactical Border Force, he said. They joined roughly 5,000 Texas Guard troops already deployed to the states border with Mexico on a two-year-old mission known as Operation Lone Star.

America is not open to people who are trying to come here illegally, Abbott said. Texas is doing more than any state in the history of the United States of America to defend our border.

The increase is part of local, state and federal government officials preparing for the lifting of a public health policy on Thursday that was enacted during the coronavirus pandemic. Known as Title 42, the policy allowed U.S. border officials to quickly turn away migrants crossing the border from Mexico for fear that they would spread the virus.

An increase in legal and illegal migration is expected once the policy expires, and Abbott said there could be as many as 13,000 people crossing from Mexico into the U.S. daily.

The Pentagon last week approved the 90-day deployment of 1,500 active-duty Marines and soldiers to deploy across the southwest U.S. border to increase support to an ongoing mission with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. They join about 2,500 National Guard members already supporting Border Patrol in non-law enforcement activities.

In contrast, the Texas troops are assisting local and state law enforcement agencies to secure the border, stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas, and prevent, detect and interdict transnational criminal behavior between the ports of entry, the Texas Military Department said in a statement.

Maj. Gen. Thomas Suelzer, commander of the Texas National Guard who spoke alongside Abbott on Monday, said the deployment is in addition to about 200 troops sent last month to El Paso to help build 22 miles of barbed wire fencing along the border.

The new troops deploying this week include military police and drone teams, he said.

I had the honor of eating dinner with these troops last night. I can tell you, the morale is high and their dedication to the state of Texas is inspirational, Suelzer said.

In addition to aircraft and drones, Abbott said the troops were provided boats, night vision equipment and riot gear for anything they may encounter.
A military veteran who told an undercover FBI agent about his admiration for Adolf Hitler and discussed a plan to "wipe out" the nation's Jewish population was sentenced on Monday to four years in prison for storming the U.S. Capitol.

U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden ordered Virginia resident Hatchet Speed to serve the four-year sentence after he completes a separate three-year prison term for a conviction on firearms offenses, court records show.

The FBI recorded Speed's conversations with the undercover agent more than a year after the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the Capitol. The agent posed as "a like-minded individual" while meeting with Speed at least three times in 2022.

Speed, 41, was "deeply worried" about Democrat Joe Biden's presidency and believed false claims that the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from Donald Trump, the Republican incumbent, prosecutors wrote in a court filing. He told the undercover agent that he believes Jewish people control Biden.

Speed expressed his admiration for Hitler during the recorded conversation, calling him "one of the best people that's ever been on this earth." He also "outlined a plan to enlist Christians to wipe out the country's entire Jewish population," prosecutors said in a court filing.

"It is not clear why this military veteran with a (security) clearance became enamored with Hitler, began to embrace street fighting, and call for the execution of the country's entire Jewish population," prosecutors wrote. "What is clear, though, is that this defendant committed a serious offense and continues to threaten the safety of the community, posing a serious danger."

McFadden heard trial testimony without a jury before convicting Speed of all five charges in his indictment, including a felony count of obstructing the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress for certifying the Electoral College vote. The judge also convicted Speed of four misdemeanors.

Speed' four-year sentence matched the prison term recommended by prosecutors. McFadden also sentenced Speed to three years of supervised release after his prison term and ordered him to pay a $10,000 fine plus $2,000 in restitution.

The undercover agent testified under a pseudonym at a separate trial for Speed in Virginia on gun charges. After a retrial in January, a jury convicted Speed of three counts of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm silencer. In April, U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff sentenced Speed to three years in prison.

Speed was a member of the Proud Boys, joining the far-right extremist group in 2020, according to prosecutors. He also was a petty officer first class in the U.S. Naval Reserves and was assigned to the Naval Warfare Space Field Activity at the National Reconnaissance Office, the FBI said.

The National Reconnaissance Office operates U.S. spy satellites used by the Pentagon and intelligence agencies. The agency said Speed was not part of the reserve unit at the time of the Capitol riot.

On Jan. 6, Speed drove to Washington, D.C, from his home in Vienna, Va.. After attending the "Stop the Steal" rally, where Trump addressed a crowd of supporters, Speed joined other Proud Boys in marching to the Capitol.

Around 3 p.m., Speed entered the building through a door to the Senate wing of the Capitol after other rioters breached it. He remained inside the Capitol for roughly 40 minutes.

Speed was arrested in June 2022 on riot-related misdemeanor charges. A grand jury later indicted him on the felony obstruction charge.

Speed's conduct on Jan. 6 "was one step on a disturbing path toward racially motivated criminal conduct  that ultimately featured plans for the kidnapping and mass murder of civilians," prosecutors wrote.
The Supreme Court (SC) resumed on Monday, the hearing on the pleas challenging the SC (Practice and Procedure) Act, 2023, curtailing the chief justices powers.

An eight-member larger bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial and comprising Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Ayesha A Malik, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Shahid Waheed, heard the pleas.

At the outset of the hearing, Attorney General of Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman requested the bench to constitute a full court.

AGP Mansoor Usman Awan informed the court that a plea had been filed for the formation of a full court to hear the case. The PML-N has also filed a petition for the formation of a full court, he said.

AGP Mansoor Usman Awan informed the court that a plea had been filed for the formation of a full court to hear the case. The PML-N has also filed a petition for the formation of a full court, he said.

Justice Ahsan remarked that the governments petition had not yet been fixed for hearing. He asked the AGP whether the documents sought by the court at the previous hearing had been submitted.

Awan replied that he had formally and informally approached the speakers office. The judiciarys independence is a fundamental element of the Constitution. Judicial independence is a fundamental component of the Constitution, the AGP added.

The AGP contended that the constitution of the benches and the matter of appeals were fixed in the law. The right to change counsel has also been given in the court reforms bill. The matters decided in the law are of administrative nature, he said and argued that the SCs rules were formulated by a full court.

On the previous hearing, CJP Bandial had turned down the attorney general's plea to withdraw the stay order restricting implementation on the bill, the top court had passed on April 13.

During the course of the proceedings, PML-N's lawyer Salahuddin Ahmed informed the court that they have also filed a similar plea.

At this, Justice Ahsan remarked that the PML-N's petition had not yet been allocated a registration number.

CJP Bandial inquired from AGP Usman if he had submitted the record of the National Assemblys proceedings which the court had sought at the last hearing.

Regarding the query, the AGP said that they expected the records to be received by tomorrow (Tuesday). He informed the court that they had contacted the National Assembly Speakers office in this regard.

AGP Awan argued that the court had declared that the basic structure of the Constitution was present. The judicial reform law involves the matter of the formation of benches and appeals, he said.

The bill also gives the right to change the lawyer, he added.

He further stated that the matters decided in the bill were of administrative nature and the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedures) Act, 2023, could be amended by a full court.

He said that cases related to the independence of the judiciary and rules should also be heard by a full court.

Moreover, the law will also apply directly to judges who are not hearing the case.

At this, Justice Ahsan remarked that the question was not about the amendments, but whether there were such legislative powers or not.

Meanwhile, Justice Naqvi inquired if there had been any legislation like the bill in question in the past.

At this, the AGP maintained that the president's permission was required to make the rules until 1973.

Responding to this, Justice Naqvi objected that how can such a legislation be done in the presence of Article 191 of the Constitution.

Meanwhile, Justice Mazhar remarked that the government's plea had stated that this case was the "first case of its kind".

The bill aimed at regulating the powers of the CJP, was approved by the Parliament during a joint sitting on April 10.

The National Assembly, on April 21, notified the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill 2023 as an act.

The bill's implementation was halted by the same bench hearing the case today.

The top court on April 13 had stopped the implementation of the law observing that if the law received the assent of the president, the bill would not be acted upon in any manner till further order.

The moment that the Bill receives the assent of the President or (as the case may be) it is deemed that such assent has been given, then from that very moment onwards and till further orders, the Act that comes into being shall not have, take or be given any effect nor be acted upon in any manner, read the nine-page interim order issued on April 13.

In its order, the bench stated that the facts and circumstances presented here are extraordinary both in import and effect.
Berating the PTI chief, the PM said that Imran Niazis act of routinely maligning and threatening the Pakistan Army and an intelligence agency for the sake of petty political gains is highly condemnable.

"His levelling of allegations without any proof against Gen Faisal Naseer and officers of our Intelligence Agency cannot be allowed and will not be tolerated.

Imran Niazi's act of routinely maligning and threatening Pakistan Army and Intelligence Agency for the sake of petty political gains is highly condemnable. His leveling of allegations without any proof against Gen Faisal Naseer and officers of our Intelligence Agnecy cannot be  Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 7, 2023

On the other hand, former president Asif Ali Zardari said the PTI chief has crossed all limits to defame institutions, which will not be tolerated anymore.

The attempt to discredit institutions has exposed the true face of the man and now enough is enough, after listening to the foreign agents speech, no patriot can even think of following him, said Zardari in a statement without naming the PTI chief.

Zardari said the allegations against the brave and distinguished officers of the Pakistan Army was an attack on the institution with which the whole of Pakistan stands.

A person is fooling his innocent workers with lies and deceit, I am seeing the downfall of this person, he said. The former president said this is the country where we all have to be buried, we will not allow one person to play with our values and our country.

A person is bent on destroying our ancestors, our children and our country, which we will not allow, said Zardari.

Meanwhile, Punjab Caretaker CM asserted that the interim government will not allow anyone to humiliate or threaten institutions and intelligence agencies in the province.

Taking to Twitter, the Punjab CM said: We will not allow anyone to humiliate or threaten our institutions and intelligence agencies in Punjab. It is our foremost responsibility as responsible Pakistani citizens to condemn these elements who are actually benefiting enemies of Pakistan.

We will not allow anyone to humiliate or threaten our institutions and Intelligence agencies in Punjab.



It is our foremost responsibility as responsible Pakistani citizens to condemn these elements who are actually benefiting enemies of Pakistan.



I assure that Law will take  Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) May 7, 2023

CM Naqvi assured that the provincial government will implement the law and that culprits will be held accountable.
The development comes  amid the ongoing tug-of-war between parliament and the judiciary  after the National Assembly last week asked the PAC to carry out a special audit of Justice Naqvis accounts and sources of income following corruption allegations against him.

Several references have been filed against Naqvi in the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) for alleged misconduct and having assets beyond means, with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) also blaming him for being "biased" against the party.

The decision was made at a meeting of the PAC, under the chairmanship of Noor Alam Khan, with 13 out of 14 members voting in favour of summoning the details of the judge's assets.

Senator Mohsin Aziz  a member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf  was the only member who opposed the move.

During the meeting, the committee chairman said he was not ready to let the allegations slide as they were of corruption. "I will not leave this matter alone as it pertains to corruption."

"I will take action against my sister, daughter, and children if they are involved in corruption," he said, warning all those members who were not present in today's meeting that he would issue summons to ensure their attendance.

He also warned the chief secretaries of all the provinces that he would have their warrants issued if they did not appear in the next committee meeting.

The committee chairman asked the Auditor General of Pakistan to investigate the categories of the land that the judge owns and submit a report to him. He directed authorities to submit the travel history of the SC judge.

Further, the committee chairman also directed the National Database and Registration Authority to provide a list to him of the family members of the top court's judge.

Not only was the PML-N speaking against the judge, but in March, his name surfaced in connection with the recent audio leaks purportedly involving him, former Punjab chief minister Parvez Elahi, and others.

A number of references have been filed to date against the top court's judge for alleged "misconduct" and for allegedly violating the judicial code of conduct, the Constitution and the law".

Justice Qazi Faez Isa, the senior most judge of the SC after Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, had also asked the top judge to call a meeting of the SJC to discuss the allegations against Justice Naqvi.
Pakistan People Party (PPP) celebrated major win in Karachi after clinching majority seats in the local government by-elections, moving closer to the city's mayoral seat.

The party has secured seats of the 98 union council constituencies in the port city with its overall position strengthening after announcement of the unofficial and unconfirmed results of the by-polls  held a day earlier  was made.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has, so far, announced the result of 240 seats out of the total 246 across the city. The electoral body has withheld results of six remaining seats which include five from district west and one from district east.

Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) is at the second spot and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is on third with 89 and 42 seats in the provincial capital, respectively.

Other parties that secured seats in Sindh in the local body elections include Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) with seven seats and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) two, while one seat each went to Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan and an independent candidate.

Following his party's victory, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed gratitude for the party's success in the by-elections terming it a "historical achievement".

Taking to its Twitter account, the party shared Bilawal's message after the win.

"From Karachi to Kashmore, people have once again reposed their faith in the PPP. It is a historical achievement that all the district chairmen, including Karachi and Hyderabad, will be jiyalas (PPP supporters)," the PPP chairman said.

He added that the success is the result of people's trust, sacrifices of parties martyred leaders and workers as well as the hard work of supporters.

Bilawal said that responsibilities of his party's supporters have increased, as its motto is now to serve people without discrimination.

He has directed union council chairmen and councilors to include every street and neighbourhood of the province as part of the development process.

"Elected representatives of the party should remember that in every street there is a Shaheed Benazir Bhutto's house and every neighborhood belongs to the leader of the people [PPP founder Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto]," he said.

The PPP chairman said that the homes of every ordinary Pakistani is as dear to him as the Bilawal House. He has asked his party's supporters prepare setting the standard to serve people.
"Our kids will never see their daddy again and he will never see his kids again, never read them stories or watch a movie, get a pizza, have parties or see his kids grow up

The family of a loving dad who was stabbed to death while he tried to jumpstart his car on the way to work has called for justice, saying his killer gave her victim no chance.

Gareth Kelly (38) had never met Christina Anderson (41) before she approached him and stabbed him five times, fatally injuring him.

At a sentencing hearing today Mr Kelly's partner, Maria Murphy, described him as a loving dad with a "cheeky smile" who was adored by his children.

"We didn't lose Gareth, Christina Anderson took him," she said. "She caused us all this pain.

"Our kids will never see their daddy again and he will never see his kids again, never read them stories or watch a movie, get a pizza, have parties or see his kids grow up.

"He will not be there to see his kids make their debs or do their Leaving Cert. He never had a chance to walk any of his daughters down the aisle."

Anderson of Brownsbarn Wood, Kingswood, Dublin, stabbed Mr Kelly five times as he tried to start his car outside her home at about 7am on the morning of February 25, 2020.

She was initially charged with murder and pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. In January this year, more than one month into her trial, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) accepted a plea of guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility due to a mental disorder.

Christina Anderson (left) and Gareth Kelly (right)

The State accepted that Ms Anderson was experiencing a psychotic episode due to bipolar affective disorder but did not qualify for the full defence of a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act.

Ms Justice Karen O'Connor today heard the first of two sentencing hearings during which members of Mr Kelly's family made statements detailing the impact his killing has had on them and their community.

The judge will hear pleas in mitigation by Anderson's lawyers on May 22, before passing sentence.

In a statement read out today by prosecution barrister Pat McGrath SC, Mr Kelly's mother Noeleen Kelly said there are "no words to explain the loss and heartache I feel right now". Gareth "lived and breathed" for his family and would do anything for anybody, she said.

He had two jobs and worked hard to "give the kids the life they wanted".

She said she watched the CCTV footage, shown during the trial, of her son's last moments. "He smiled at a passerby, not remotely aware of what lay ahead for him, just going to work," she said.

She said she is left forever with the memory of the expression on his face after Anderson stabbed him the first time. "Was he scared, was he frightened? My son lay dying on that pathway between two cars, struggling for his last breath. Why?"

She said the family is living a life sentence with each day bringing pain and sorrow and reminders of what they have lost. Due to the outbreak of Covid shortly after Gareth's death, the family was unable to grieve together and Gareth's father died alone in hospital 14 months after his son "with a broken heart and no answers or justice".

Mr Kelly's sister, Lorraine Kelly, said she felt a lump in her throat, an ache in her heart and tears in her eyes every time she heard her brother referred to in court as "the late" or "the deceased".

"He was my younger brother, one of the most intriguing people I have ever known and he was taken from this earth so horrifically."

He was a great father, she said, and a loving partner to Maria. "He was always the life and soul of a gathering and cherished everything, even when life was not going his way."

She said he embraced every opportunity to enjoy life and deserved to live and make more memories with his family and his children.

"He loved celebrating everything with his children. He made sure he set traditions for his children to embrace life together," she said.

Every car journey with his children turned into a singsong and for his children's birthdays he would wake them up with a birthday song.

"He put passion into everything he did in his life. He was always smiling his cheeky smile with the dimples. He loved life and he was doing it and smashing it. He would laugh at me stressing and tell me to slow down and enjoy life and never let it pass me by."

She said the facts from the trial will be "forever etched on my mind". She will forever remember the footage of her brother holding himself up at the side of the car before being attacked a second time.

"Was he calling for help? I know he was in pain, I know that because of the evidence. Was he frightened? Yes. Was he scared? Yes. I can see his face and the look of confusion about what was happening to him. Seeing him fall to the ground, my brother Gar was in pain and I couldn't do anything. My brother was hurt and I wasn't there to protect him, she said.

She recalled seeing Ms Anderson returning to strike her brother "again and again and again".

She said: "She took my brother and best friend, one of the most precious figures of our family, our community. We had to hear all the horrendous details before she finally put an end to it. She couldn't spare us the details on top of what was already too difficult to comprehend without having to hear all the horrific details."

She finished by saying she hopes justice will "close this aspect of our grief and loss and allow us to focus on Gar, my brother Gar".

Ms Justice O'Connor adjourned the matter until May 22 when she will hear pleas in mitigation from Anderson's defence lawyers.

Following the accepted plea earlier this year, Michael OHiggins SC, for Anderson, said the plea decision was taken after lengthy consideration and appraisal of this case.

He said there were ongoing difficulties on the defence side arising from a report by consultant psychiatrist Professor Harry Kennedy and the decision to plead guilty to manslaughter was informed by those difficulties.

The court has previously heard that Professor Kennedy disagreed with Dr Brenda Wright, a consultant psychiatrist called by the defence, who said that Ms Anderson was suffering from bipolar affective disorder and as a result of her mental disorder she was unable to refrain from stabbing Mr Kelly.

Prof Kennedy, the court heard during cross examination of Dr Wright, had written a report in which he said that Andersons behaviour was better explained by cannabis intoxication. Intoxication cannot be used as a defence under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006.

Anderson was taken into custody at the Dochas women's prison following her arrest and detention in February 2020 but was transferred almost immediately to the Central Mental Hospital. The court heard today that she has remained a patient at the Central Mental Hospital since then.

Opening the trial last December, Mr McGrath told the jury that Mr Kelly had parked overnight in a space belonging to the Anderson home, something that happened from time to time to the annoyance of Ms Anderson.

Mr Kelly, who had never met Anderson, was trying to start his car when she approached him and stabbed him before returning to her house. She then returned and stabbed him again.

The court heard from friends and neighbours of Anderson and from her husband Mark Anderson that her behaviour had become increasingly erratic in the days and weeks leading up to the stabbing.

In particular, she had become obsessed with what she falsely believed to be a criminal conspiracy among her neighbours involving gardai and senior politicians.

Mark Anderson told the trial that he and his wife were cannabis users and would smoke two to three small joints to relax in the evenings after their children had gone to bed.

Because they were regular users, he said they had a high tolerance and found it relaxing.

From 2017 onwards there were times when Mr Anderson said he noticed that his wifes energy levels and enthusiasm spiked and she would become very eager.

On occasion she complained of feeling depressed and would go to a doctor. She began seeing psychiatrists at the Mary Mercer clinic in 2017. She was prescribed medication and never had any problem taking it.

On February 16, 2020, Mr Anderson travelled to Canada for work. He didnt notice anything wrong with his wife before he left but when he landed back in Dublin on February 23, two days before the stabbing, she seemed to be delusional.

He had never previously seen her act in a paranoid way but she began telling him about a criminal conspiracy involving their neighbours and said she was in fear for herself and the children. She attached some significance to a photograph she had found of Bertie Ahern, the former Taoiseach, and said that their solicitor was going to come to the house with Michael Jackson, the deceased pop star.

The following day, a Monday, she was still delusional but had periods of clear thinking, he said, during which she was aware that she was not well and was willing to go to the psychiatric unit. Mr Anderson called Mary Mercer hoping to bring her in that day but they said they didnt have psychiatric services on a Monday. They agreed to bring her scheduled appointment for the following afternoon forward to 9am.

He couldnt remember if they smoked cannabis that evening but said, its likely, it would have been normal for us.

They went to bed and the next morning Mr Anderson awoke when he heard the house alarm going off followed by a loud bang. He found that the alarm had been pulled off the wall and believed his wife had done it.

He did not know that his wife had stabbed someone until gardai came to the house a short time later.

The defence also called Dr Johann Grundlingh, a toxicologist. He told the trial that the effects of cannabis typically last from one to three hours.

He said that if it is true that Anderson smoked her final cannabis cigarette at about 10pm the previous evening and stabbed Mr Kelly at about 7am, then it is extremely unlikely she would still have been intoxicated with cannabis.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The 7th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) on bilateral cooperation between the Government of Azerbaijan and the Government of Lithuania was held in Lithuania on May 8, 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan told Trend.

Speaking at the meeting with an introductory speech, the co-chairman of the commission from Azerbaijan, Foreign Minister Bayramov highlighted the existence of a partnership between the two countries based on mutual interests, fundamental norms and principles of international law.

It was said that visits between the two countries at the highest and highest levels, regular contacts contribute to the development of relations.

Bayramov spoke about the efforts carried out by Azerbaijan in the post-Karabakh conflict period to rehabilitate and restore the territories affected by Armenian occupation, as well as to return people to their homes. Lithuanian companies and investors were invited to participate in projects in the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from occupation.

During the speech, it was also stressed that the massive contamination of the conflict-affected territories by mines is the main obstacle to the restoration and reconstruction work, as well as to ensure the safe return of internally displaced persons to their homes, the hope was expressed for cooperation with the Lithuanian side in the fight against the mine threat.

The minister informed about the availability of broad opportunities for mutually beneficial partnership in various other areas, including trade and investment, energy security and energy transition, communications and information technology, agribusiness, exchange in the educational and cultural spheres.

Moreover, the sides expressed confidence that the transport hub and the Zangazur corridor being created in the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from Armenian occupation will contribute to regional peace and stability and give impetus to intra-regional trade.

In his speech, the minister, speaking about the energy dialogue of Azerbaijan country with the EU, noted that green electricity is an important part of the country's energy dialogue with the EU and spoke about the projects being implemented in this direction and added that Azerbaijan has ample opportunities for cooperation with Lithuanian companies on projects of transition to renewable energy sources.

In his closing speech at the end of the meeting, Bayramov underlined the importance of the intergovernmental commission meeting as a mechanism for regular institutional dialogue to promote the road-map for the two countries and expressed confidence that the countries will continue dialogue and contacts in this direction.

During the meeting of the commission, officials of the relevant structures of Azerbaijan and Lithuania spoke, interdepartmental bilateral meetings were held, and at the end of the event, the protocol of the 7th meeting of the commission was signed.
The 41-year-old, from Dundalk in Co Louth, was jailed for 15 months at the Special Criminal Court last July after being convicted of Isis membership.

Former soldier Lisa Smith may walk free from Limerick Prison within weeks.

The 41-year-old, from Dundalk in Co Louth, was jailed for 15 months at the Special Criminal Court last July after being convicted of Isis membership.

And while she isnt due to be leave prison for another few months, she may be granted early release for good behaviour.

Lisa Smith has not come to the attention of prison staff since she was locked up at Limerick jail, a source told the Irish Mirror.

She will get her 25 per cent remission taken off her sentence of 15 months for good behaviour.

She has been telling inmates how she will return to her family and young child who she appears to have missed a lot.

She keeps her head down, and in between her daily prayers she mixes with other inmates.

Smith is currently sharing a cell at Limerick jail with dissident republican killer Rose Lynch after inmates were forced to make space for other prisoners at the beginning of the year.

They previously had their own cells but get on well together, according to sources, and agreed to share with each other.

The pair have both been described as model prisoners.

Smith was the first person convicted by an Irish court of membership in another country of an Islamic terror group.

Like all Muslim prisoners in the system, she has been allowed to observe her faith, praying five times a day, and she is given Halal food which is prepared in line with her religious beliefs.

Smith had previously spent a month in Limerick Prison in December 2019, after she was first extradited back to Ireland from a Syrian refugee camp, before being freed on bail.

The Special Criminal Court rejected Smiths claims she had travelled to the Islamic State out of a sense of religious obligation and for the purpose of living under Sharia law.

One of the trial judges said it was a serious matter for an Irish citizen and former Defence Forces member to take up allegiance to a foreign terrorist organisation.

Meanwhile, Limerick woman Rose Lynch was convicted of the 2011 murder of innocent man David Darcy, but refused to name her male accomplice.

She was found guilty in April 2014 of the murder and is serving a life sentence.

Delivery van driver Darcy had been on his way to work when a car suddenly blocked his vehicle.

Lynch ran to the drivers window and emptied a handgun into Mr Darcy, killing him instantly.

When Lynch was convicted of the killing two years later gardai made a new appeal for information to find others involved in the murder.

Lynch told gardai that she had emptied a handgun during the assassination and that Mr Darcy had been killed in retaliation for the death of Dublin CIRA Officer Commanding Liam Kenny.

It was heard in court gardai were absolutely satisfied that the allegations against David Darcy were lies and that he was not involved in any criminality.

Passing sentence, presiding judge Ms Justice Elizabeth Dunne said the incident could only be described as a premeditated, calculated and cold-blooded murder.

The judge said the evidence was crystal clear that David Darcy was innocent, was not involved in criminality and was a man going about his business.
Samara De Oliveira Borges Stoque was like a rabbit in the headlights when caught

A Manicurist who got involved in the drugs trade to pay her rent had never been in trouble before and was like a rabbit in the headlights when caught, a court has heard.

Samara De Oliveira Borges Stoque (22) was found with 660 of cannabis and ecstasy after a suspicious transaction near a Dublin garda station.

Dublin District Court heard she was not the person calling the shots in the incident.

Judge Bryan Smyth adjourned the case and said he would consider leaving her without a criminal record if she donated the value of the deal to charity.

Samara De Oliveira Borges Stoque

The accused, of Capel Street, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply at Clontarf Road on March 5, 2022.

The court heard that after the accused was seen by gardai handing a man two plastic bags, a search was carried out.

Five bags of cannabis, worth 390, and five bags of ecstasy, worth 270, were found.

The accused had no previous convictions and had not been in any trouble since.

The prosecuting garda agreed with defence solicitor Niall Walsh that where the offence took place was fairly out in the open and pretty much on top of the garda station.

She wasnt the decision maker or the person calling the shots, Mr Walsh said.

Samara De Oliveira Borges Stoque pleaded guilty

The court heard there was another arrest elsewhere in the area involving a larger amount of drugs.

The accused came to Europe with her then-fiance for a better life. It was her first time abroad, she was unable to work and fell on hard times, struggling to pay the rent.

Some other people were involved in an insidious matter and suggested to her that this would be a good idea to get a small amount of money, Mr Walsh said.

She was like a rabbit in the headlights, he added.

She got no money in the end as she lost the merchandise.

Her husband had since got Italian citizenship and they planned to stay in Ireland in the short term at least.
Eimear O Keeffe (43), with an address at The Way, Hunters Run in Dublin 15, pictured at the Criminal Courts of Justice (CCJ) Photo: Paddy Cummins   Paddy Cummins - PCPhoto.ie

A radio DJ has been sent for trial accused of laundering 15,000 in crime proceeds through her bank account.

Nikki Hayes, real name Eimear OKeeffe, is facing trial on money laundering charges following alleged offences in 2020.

She had a book of evidence served on her when she appeared in Dublin District Court today.

Judge Bryan Smyth returned her for trial to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

The former RTE 2FM and Classic Hits star was remanded on continuing bail.

Ms Hayes (43), with an address at The Way, Hunters Run in Dublin 15 is accused of possession of the proceeds of criminal activity, under Section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act.

The first charge is that Ms Hayes received 10,000 into her account on November 6, 2020.

The other two alleged offences took place on November 5 that year, when she allegedly received sums of 2,400 and 2,600 into her account.

Former radio DJ Nikki Hayes   Paddy Cummins - PCPhoto.ie

The DPP had directed trial on indictment and the case was before Dublin District Court today for service of a book of evidence. This is required before the accused can be sent for trial to the circuit court

State solicitor Mairead White said the book was ready and the DPP was consenting to the accused being sent for trial.

Judge Smyth gave Ms Hayes the formal notice that she had 14 days to submit any alibi details to the prosecution.

He ordered the state to furnish the defence with the accused's garda interview video.

Ms Hayes was arrested and charged in February.

On her first court date, a detective from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau said the accused made no reply to either count after caution and was handed copies of the charge sheets.

Nikki Hayes

The judge had queried the choice of district court venue, saying the alleged offences appeared to have happened in Blanchardstown and the accused had an address in Dublin 15.

The detective said garda management had directed the case to Dublin District Court and said the alleged offences actually happened online.

Judge Smyth had granted bail in the accuseds own bond of 200, with no cash lodgement required. Gardai did not object to bail or seek any conditions.

The judge also previously granted legal aid after hearing the accused had no assets and was in receipt of social welfare.

Ms Hayes has spoken of and written about her mental health struggles in recent years, with a book on the issue Crying into the Saucepan published in 2017.
In a statement, the Irish Prison Service said it is aware of an incident that occurred with an escort from Mountjoy Prison earlier today.

A prison officer has suffered serious injuries after being stabbed in the face during an attempted escape in Dublin.

The suspect for the attack is a violent inmate who is currently serving a life sentence for a murder in the capital several years ago.

The victim in that case was an innocent young man who was stabbed to death following a personal dispute.

Gardai have launched an investigation into the assault this morning during which the suspect is understood to have used a homemade shiv to stab the prison officer in the face.

His injuries have been described as "significant" and he is currently undergoing treatment in the Mater Hospital for wounds to his cheek.

The prison officer is being treated in the Mater Hospital Photo: Tony Gavin

Sources have also praised the efforts of his colleagues to restrain the prisoner and assist the injured officer following the violent attack.

"This is an extremely serious incident involving a disruptive prisoner who is currently serving a life sentence for murder.

"The officers' colleagues have to be commended for how they handled this situation to subdue the inmate, to prevent any danger to the public, and to provide immediate assistance to the injured individual.

"It shows the dangers prison officers can face on a daily basis," the source added.

The attack happened after 10am this morning as the inmate was being escorted from Mountjoy Prison to a medical appointment in the Smithfield area of the city centre.

Authorities are treating the incident as an attempted escape and suspect the attack on the prison officer was pre-planned.

The suspect, aged in his 20s, has since been returned to Mountjoy Prison while gardai have launched an investigation into the matter.

In a statement, the Irish Prison Service said it is aware of an incident that occurred with an escort from Mountjoy Prison earlier today.

An Garda Siochana have been informed and therefore the Irish Prison Service cannot comment on an ongoing investigation, it added.

An Garda Siochana confirmed that they are investigating the incident.

The suspect has been described as a highly disruptive inmate who has regularly been disciplined behind bars.

He has been in custody since he was a teenager after being charged with murder and was subsequently convicted following a jury trial.

Only last month the Prison Officers Association (POA) raised concerns about the increase in attacks on prison staff at jails around the country.

Figures indicate that there has been a 63pc increase in injuries to staff as they try to control violence behind bars.
The Fianna Fail politician, who is also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, said that Irish and British governments want to ensure a quick conclusion to the court case.

Vikat Bhagat is accused of the murder of Danielle McLaughlin. Picture by Denise Calnan

Danielle McLaughlin from Buncrana, Co Donegal, was raped and murdered in Goa

Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said that he is aware that delays in Donegal woman Danielle McLaughlins murder trial in India are causing her family "acute distress.

The Fianna Fail politician, who is also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, said that Irish and British governments want to ensure a quick conclusion to the court case.

His comments come in response to a question put forward by Donegal TD Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD in the Dail last week.

Deputy Mac Lochlainn had asked if the Tanaiste will meet with Danielles family to directly discuss their concerns over the ongoing delays in the trial.

Mr Martin responded: As the Deputy will be aware, my Department, through the Embassy of Ireland in New Delhi, Consulate General in Mumbai and Consular Assistance Unit in Dublin, has been providing assistance to the citizens family - notwithstanding the Indian authorities position that this is a UK consular case.

Consular officers in my Department are in regular contact with the family, and I am fully aware of the acute distress arising from the ongoing delays in the case.," An Tanaiste said.

I can assure you that, together with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, we are continuing to engage with the relevant authorities. On 6 April of this year, Irish and British diplomats once again travelled to Goa to meet with officials on the matter."

Ensuring a quick conclusion to the court case remains a significant priority for the Irish and British Governments as well as, of course, for the citizens family.

Vikat Bhagat is accused of the murder of Danielle McLaughlin. Picture by Denise Calnan

Danielle (28) from Buncrana, was found dead in a secluded field in Indias Canacona, an area of Goa popular with holidaymakers, on March 14, 2017.

Danielle, who had been using a British passport at the time, had travelled to India where she planned to train as a yoga teacher. The night before she was found dead, Danielle had attended a Holi party near Canacona beach in the south of Goa.

A local man, Vikat Bhagat, has been charged with the rape and murder of Danielle and the trial opened in 2018 but has been beset by delays.

The 23-year-old has pleaded not guilty to charges of rape, murder, violent robbery and destruction of evidence.

The trial initially opened at Court Margao in India's South Goa on April 6, 2018, but has only continued intermittently since then, taking place twice a month for 30 minutes maximum.

But last Friday marked the sixth time since February 27 that Bhagat has not been produced in court due to a shortage of escort staff, which resulted in the hearing being cancelled.

Bhagat has been described by police in India as a gang member and has convictions for theft.

Danielle knew nothing of his criminal past. She had met him the year before when visiting India and the pair had struck up a friendship, with Danielle referring to him as her brother.
What shocked me was the conditions we were expected to sit in for that amount of time, when we were all unwell. Imagine what thats like for a sick, elderly, frail person.

The emergency department at Dublins Beaumont Hospital was like a war zone, with no locks on toilet doors and no food, according to one recent patient.

The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, was unable to get an appointment with her GP after trying for two weeks.

On the advice of D-Doc, she presented at Beaumont Hospital on Dublins northside at 9pm last Friday night, April 28.

After a 15-hour wait on a plastic chair in a prefab area, she was diagnosed with a gut infection and given antibiotics. She left the hospital at 12pm on Saturday, April 29.

The word that springs to mind the most is a war zone. That sounds dramatic, but it felt like that. Its a tent, kind of like a prefab area before you get to wait in A&E, she said.

Im luckily young and relatively healthy, Ive never really had to go into hospital before this. I consider myself lucky after seeing what goes on there.

I wasnt prepared for what I experienced first-hand. The wait was one of the worst parts, it was at least 12 to 16 hours and longer if you needed to be kept in.

TD tells Leo Varadkar of dying OAP's agonising wait on trolley in Portiuncula Hospital

What shocked me was the conditions we were expected to sit in for that amount of time, when we were all unwell. Imagine what thats like for a sick, elderly, frail person.

One lad I spoke to was left waiting for 16 hours to see a doctor with a suspected bleed on the brain.

When youre ill, you dont want to sit in a plastic chair that is drilled into the floor. You cant even drag it over to a wall to lean against and try to sleep.

There were two toilet cubicles in the room, but only one had a lock on it. Really simple things like that, its carelessness.

When youre unwell you dont want to be sitting on the toilet and trying to hold the door to make sure nobody comes in.

Prefab-like waiting area outside the Emergency Department at Beaumont Hospital on Friday, April 28

You go in unwell and come out feeling even worse to be honest. There was only a water fountain and a vending machine, there was nothing substantial, soup, tea, or coffee.

You could order in takeaway, that was the only option during the night.

There was a cafe open during the day in the hospital but its a bit of a walk to it and you didnt want to leave your area in case youre called.

If you miss your slot, theyre not looking for you too hard, she added.

The Dublin woman said staff were working hard, but they were limited. Because of this, a lot of people decided to go home.

One man said there was no dignity in this and left, she said.

I got there at about 9pm on Friday night and I didnt leave until 12pm the next day. I got seen at about 11.30am. When you get seen its so quick, then youre out.

Nobody came to check on anyone. I understand that nurses and doctors were held up. What if somebody took a turn if you were there alone?

Nobody came to see if anyone had deteriorated or not, we were told to go and ask for painkillers if we wanted some. But if youre not well enough to do that, what happens? she added.

According to the INMO, 27 people were on trolleys at Beaumont Hospital between Friday, April 28 and Friday, May 5.

Independent.ie has contacted Beaumont Hospital and the Department of Health for further comment.
Armagh man Patrick Fearons mother said he had also saved the life of his sister during a house fire when he was just a teen

The funeral of a man who died during a desperate attempt to save the life of a young woman in the River Lagan is taking place in Co Armagh.

Patrick Fearon (30), passed away on Friday after entering the Belfast river to ensure the woman had latched on to a life-ring he had thrown into the water just moments beforehand.

His actions ultimately saved the womans life, but tragically Mr Fearon did not make it out of the water alive.

He was removed from the water at around 2.30am, and despite paramedics working frantically to save his life, was pronounced dead at 4am that morning.

Patricks mother Linda said the details of the incident were testament to his selfless nature.

Everyone loved him; every member of his whole family loved him, she said. Nobody ever had a bad word to say about him. Im not just saying that because Im his mother, Im saying that because its true, she told Armagh i.

Patrick being Patrick, he threw the life ring into the water and I think he went in after that to make sure she got it. She got out okay in the end  he didnt.

He couldnt swim that well, certainly not well enough to be in a fast flowing river, but he didnt even think about that, he was just concerned about making sure the girl got the life ring.

Mr Fearons mother said he had also saved the life of his sister during a house fire when he was just a teenager.

When he was 14 my house went on fire and he ran in to get her and his pet cat out, said Linda.

Thats the sort of person he was, he always put other people before himself, thats just who he was.

Mr Fearon had recently returned from living in Glasgow, and had recently landed his dream job as a data analyst in the NHS. He was also a fan of Manchester United and a dedicated follower of Armagh GAA.

His mother said he had been planning to attend next weekends Ulster SFC final against Derry at Clones.

He was planning on coming down to Armagh next weekend to watch the Ulster final, she said.

He was a big Armagh fan. He was also a big Manchester United fan  hes being buried in his Manchester United top and scarf. He had friends all over, not just here.

He had friends in England and Scotland and he even has a friend flying from Canada to attend his funeral.

I know Im his mum but he was loved by everyone. He never ever did anyone any harm in his life. He never gave me a moments worry in my life. I always say he was a joy to have as a son. No mother should bury their son.

Burial is taking place after 11am requiem mass at St Patricks Cathedral in Armagh.
Where is the bunting? Where are the banners? Where is our beloved red, white and blue? he asked.

Former terror chief Johnny Mad Dog Adair last night blasted the UDA  the loyalist organisation he led  for creating a coronation catastrophe.

He rounded on the groups current commanders for not even putting up bunting on their Shankill patch  saying the loyalist Shankill estate is more like republican Ballymurphy.

The one-time brigadier and commander of the notorious C Coy was furious when he learned about the lack of celebrations in his old stomping ground.

Where is the bunting? Where are the banners? Where is our beloved red, white and blue? he asked.

These people prefer selling coke to celebrating the crown, he insisted.

Exiled in Scotland for the past 20 years, Adair spoke to the Sunday World from his home on the Ayrshire coast.

This wouldnt have happened if I was still there, he said.

And Adair  who will be 60 later this year  revealed how yesterday he was bombarded by calls from friends and former UDA comrades in Belfast. All of them, he said, voiced sadness at the state of the lower Shankill on Coronation Day.

Prince Williams tribute to King Charles at coronation concert: Pa, we are all so proud of you

It is the most important thing to happen since Queen Elizabeth passed away last September  but the UDA ignored it. It was left to individual families to show loyalty to the crown, he said angrily.

UVF leader Gusty Spence once described the Shankill as the beating heart of the British Empire and he was right.

But yesterday, tourists to Belfast could be forgiven for thinking the Shankill only begins at Agnes Street instead of Petershill, he added.

The upper Shankill looks great. And fair play to them with a stunning picture of the new King. But when you get to Agnes Street, it just stops dead, Adair raged.

A new mural of King Charles III was unveiled on the Shankhill Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland on Friday night close to the mural of his late mother Queen Elizabeth

In his day as a paramilitary leader in the tight-knit heartland, Adair revelled in public displays of loyalist culture and tradition.

And he took personal responsibility for the appearance of the district which is the gateway to Protestant west Belfast.

In September 1995, Adair was sent down for 16 years when he was convicted of directing terrorism.

But yesterday, he recalled how he set about redesigning the lower Shankill on his release from prison under the Good Friday Agreement.

Johnny Adair paints a union flag onto the gable wall of a building   Richard Sullivan

I was in jail for seven years and when I got out, there was one UDA mural in the lower Shankill area. But within months I had 23 murals erected on the streets where we were strong and I paid for a lot of it out of my own pocket.

If I was living there today, I would be telling the UDA leaders, Thats not your money. That money belongs to us  the people of the lower Shankill.

It should have been spent on the community. And I mean I wouldnt have beenglorifying the past. Those days are gone.

I would have made sure we were honouring the royal family. I would even have had a small beacon and I would have had a disco for the kids of the area.

I would have had bouncy castles for the younger children. And I would have had three flags on every lamppost.

Celebrations are in full swing at the top the of the Shankill Road, unlike the Lower end of the road.

I took pride in our community. I personally took charge of decorating the place. I made sure it was all neat and tidy. The red, white and blue were all the same size and the kerbstones were painted perfectly.

I even stood over the boys doing the painting, because we lived there and at that time it was a phenomenal tourist attraction. It really was.

We made sure it looked great for people coming into the area. Visitors knew they were in a special loyalist place, but yesterday the place looked a mess and it is the UDA to blame.

Saturday was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to express the loyalty which lies at the heart of the lower Shankill community, he said.

And referring to the UDA leaders of today, Adair insisted: Believe me when I say this, theres not a loyalist bone in their bodies. As far as theyre concerned its about money  money for them.

He added: Community money should be distributed to the needy  not the greedy.
Singer Conor ODonoghue chats about representing his country and the incredible impact The Script had on the four-piece

When singer Conor ODonoghue of Wild Youth takes to the stage at the Eurovision Song Contest in next Tuesdays semi-final, hell be remembering two special people he loved and lost.

Firstly, theres his mother, Jackie, who died from a brain tumour in 2011 at the age of 56. ODonoghue was just 17 years old, and the youngest in the family.

He also lost an idol, mentor and friend with the shock passing of The Scripts Mark Sheehan.

It was The Script who took fledgling pop stars ODonoghue and his Wild Youth cohorts Dave Whelan, Ed Porter and Callum McAdam under their wing, when they first emerged on the scene.

As Wild Youth, who are also from Dublin city, said of Sheehan following his death: We loved writing with you, touring with you and laughing with you. Every performance we ever do will be dedicated to you. You believed in us when nobody else did.

In life, Sheehan achieved success beyond his dreams as a musician and songwriter, but he never forgot where he came from and was determined to give the next generation of kids a leg up the ladder.

Glen Power, Danny ODonoghue, and the late Mark Sheehan

The Script had a huge impact on our early life, ODonoghue tells Magazine+. Being young, being from where Im from, sometimes theres a tendency for people to shoot down certain things, and they gave us the opportunity to go to London to write with them.

As a writer, for me it was like going to college to get to go into the studio every single day with them for three or four years. I got to learn so much because they were just incredible pros, and their way of writing was phenomenal.

I think being surrounded by that every day and being like a sponge and absorbing everything was a huge learning experience for us. We also picked up on their work ethic because sometimes wed start at 11 in the morning in the studio and finish at three the next morning.

Mark will always be in our hearts. We will never forget what he did for us, along with Danny and Glen.

ODonoghues mother was a huge fan of Eurovision, and would have loved her sons moment in the spotlight on that stage when he sings the Irish entry, We Are One.

Through good times and bad times its what stays with me  that hopefully shell be looking at what I do as a performance, he says.

This is an incredibly special event because it was our thing to watch the Eurovision together, and to go full circle now and be performing on that stage, that alone for me is everything and more.

The ODonoghues are a united family. I have an amazing family, the best dad and three amazing brothers, ODonoghue acknowledges.

Wild Youth arrival at Eurovision Song Contest 2023

To do something like this is also for the joy you give your parents, to make them proud  and its payback. For me personally, its why I do almost everything. Dad loves this, and when I go back to where my musical roots came from, it was my mam and my dad who were incredibly encouraging.

While flying the flag for Ireland is an honour hes relishing, ODonoghue reveals that hes not the first member of his family to do it.

My brother, Paul, used to play rugby, Conor reveals. He represented Ireland in rugby Under 20s and actually won a Grand Slam. So, Im the second brother to represent Ireland and Im reminded of that all the time.

Hes put his jersey hanging up over my bed to remind me Dont you f**kin forget! he laughs.

Like our rugby team preparing for the Six Nations, Wild Youth are leaving nothing to chance. They have spent weeks performing on the Eurovision circuit, honing their performance for the main event.

I think Ive spent more time in an airplane than I have in my apartment, and thats not even a joke, Conor says, as he talks about performing everywhere from London to Tel Aviv, and Stockholm to Barcelona.

We feel so incredibly lucky visiting these countries and doing what weve done. And you get a feel for the format and how the Eurovision all works.

Were used to going on stage for an hour and 20 minutes, but Eurovision will be two minutes and 50 seconds. Youre on, youre off, theres no warming into it  its all go from the second youre on. So the tour weve been doing gets you into the routine of doing a two minutes and 50 seconds performance.

Conor ODonoghue of Wild Youth

We are a different group now than when we went into it a couple of weeks ago. We have become closer than ever and it really feels like now, as a band, we are tighter because you dont get a second song, there is no room for errors.

You have to be super focused on the night, so we got the magnifying glass out and youre looking through every single harmony, every note, making sure everything is perfect.

We Are One has been revamped a little bit and the performance will be on a much grander scale than what we did in Eurosong. Its very ambitious. A lot of thought, effort and hours have gone into it.

The Eurovision stage in Liverpool is phenomenal and the opportunities we have on that stage to do things that we want to do is so exciting. Its what I would imagine the stage to look like if we were to get an opportunity to play Croke Park. They have runways and theres moving screens and everything, its insane.

What an opportunity to get to perform with a production like that! We are working as hard as we possibly can to give the best performance that we can be proud of. After that, its out of our hands.

Wild Youth represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest, with the semi-final on May 9
Struggling families are getting caught in a poverty trap by racking up hundreds of dollars of debt using buy now pay later schemes for meat, nappies and other everyday essentials, budget advisers warn.

Financial mentors are increasingly alarmed by the number of people buying groceries through lenders Afterpay and Zip, as low-income whanau struggle to cope with the cost of living.

At a Mad Butcher store in Christchurch, every shopper spoken to by RNZ was buying meat using a buy now pay later service.

Cleaner Mei says she uses Afterpay to buy $120 meat packs for her family of six because she could not afford to pay up front.

"It's my pay-day today and I'm just about broke - that's just food - and I've only got my meat so far. I need to go to Pak'nSave and spend the rest of my money there."

Mei says she's paying $300 a fortnight in Afterpay bills for meat alone.

"I can't get out of it. I'm continuing to Afterpay all my meat from now on. It's just a repetitive cycle that I'm stuck in now. I suppose it's like a gambler, going to the machine and putting in $20."

Another shopper - a mother-of-three on a benefit - says feels she has no choice but to buy food using Afterpay.

"A mother will do anything to feed her kids.

"If you were really strapped you could do a whole week's shop on Afterpay at the Mad Butcher, but two to four weeks later, if you have to do that the next week as well, eventually the payments stack up on each other.

"You're already broke, you've got to rob Peter to pay Paul."

She has just managed to pay off her Afterpay bills, but another big expense is never far away, she says.

"It just depends on good week or bad week. My son just started high school and needed a school uniform. So I had to Afterpay some things for that and try to get a Chromebook. If it wasn't for my mum helping me out, I'd probably be doing more Afterpays to get through."

Under buy now pay later schemes, customers could pay for purchases over several interest-free instalments, side-stepping credit cards and pay-day loans, but users who failed to make repayments were stung with late fees.

The latest figures from credit bureau Centrix show a record 10.5 per cent of buy now pay later accounts were in arrears at the end of March.

According to Consumer NZ, just over 25 per cent of New Zealanders have a buy now pay later account, a figure that has remained consistent through the last 18 months.

The data shows 20 per cent of BNPL users accumulated debt from essentials such as groceries, bills and fuel, while 35 per cent paid for services with a credit card, leaving them vulnerable to a second cycle of debt.

When mother-of-three Larissa could not afford groceries like milk, bread and nappies she turned to buy now pay later lender Zip to stock up on family staples at The Warehouse.

The financial juggling act has left her $700 in debt and despondent about living week-to-week in an effort to feed her children.

"It sucks having to go through all of this every week just to manage," she says.

"You've got to do what you've got to do. I would like to stop using it at some point but that's when I'm in a better financial situation, like my kids aren't in nappies."

Whanganui Budget Advisory Service manager Sandy Fage says families are getting into debt just to survive.

"It's horrendous. I don't know how soul-destroying it must be to be in that position, and then go: 'How do I get some meat for my family?'," she says.

Sandy says low-income earners can't always rely on food banks, so it's only natural for them to ride out a financial storm with buy now pay later lenders.

Good Shepherd head of microfinance Natalie Vincent says 90 per cent of the organisation's loan applicants are buy now pay later users, some of whom have multiple accounts.

"People using buy now pay later to buy essential items like food is telling a troublesome story about the position New Zealand families are in at the moment.

"The debt can become unmanageable quite quickly and spiral out of control, and then it causes all sorts of problems."

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment officials are considering draft government regulations for the buy now pay later sector to reduce the risk of people falling into a debt trap.

Under the proposed changes, lenders will have to do robust affordability checks for loans of more than $600, but financial advisers argued the threshold was far too high for people on low-incomes.

Natalie Vincent says any kind of threshold for credit checks is inappropriate.

"At $600 that wouldn't capture our clients or those on limited incomes or with low levels of credit to the buy now pay later service. These are the people who are vulnerable to harm from using a buy now pay later service."

A Zip spokesperson says the company conducts credit checks on all customers and subscribs to an indebtedness indicator that ensures it doesn't lend to people that are behind on payments to other BNPL lenders.

Customers with overdue payments have had their accounts frozen, default fees are capped at $40 and Zip has a hardship policy to help people struggling to make repayments, she says.

A Mad Butcher spokesman says it's up to customers to choose the payment option that best suits them.

Afterpay and The Warehouse did not respond to RNZ's request for comment.

-Jean Edwards/RNZ.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. An opening ceremony for the international program on "Improvement of qualifications of world heritage specialists" has been held in Baku, Trend reports.

Speaking at the ceremony jointly organized by the Azerbaijani State Tourism Agency, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the National Committee of ICOMOS in Azerbaijan, the agencys Chairperson Azada Huseynova noted that the preservation of world heritage sites requires special skills & knowledge.

"Strengthening skills and knowledge in this area is of great importance for preserving the world cultural heritage. Therefore, this program provides a unique opportunity to improve skills in the field of protection of world heritage sites, exchange experience, she said.

As the State Tourism Agency, we are very pleased to become part of this initiative, contribute to building the capacity of World Heritage professionals in the region," Huseynova added.

Chairman of the Board of the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Shahin Seyidzade noted that the organization of this event in Azerbaijan is of great importance for increasing the practical knowledge of experts in the field of protection, restoration and conservation of world cultural heritage sites.

Then the participants of the meeting were presented with a video message from ICOMOS President Teresa Patricio. She noted the importance of the efforts of professional specialists for organizing effective protection and conservation of cultural heritage sites. Patricio added that the event organized in Baku is of great importance in terms of improving skills in this area, and wished the participants of the event success in this activity.

During the event, the Director of the ICOMOS Evaluation Unit Gwenaelle Bourdin made a presentation on the main directions and goals of the training program.

Representatives of Turkiye, Poland, Israel, France, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Russia, Romania, Moldova, Georgia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Oman and other countries are participating in the event.

Within the framework of the program, with the participation of experienced instructors from France, Poland and Georgia, discussions and exchange of experience were held on various topics, including the rules and procedures of the World Heritage Convention, criteria for selecting UNESCO World Heritage sites, and others.

As part of the five-day program, participants will make presentations about World Heritage properties in their countries. The practical part of the program is planned to be held on the territory of Icherisheher, near the Maiden Tower and the Shirvanshah's Palace, included in the World Heritage List.

Azerbaijan has a number of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO. Among them are Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khans Palace, Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah's Palace and Maiden Tower, etc.

In April 2023, Azerbaijan said it submitted its proposal (on the country's Hirkan Forests) for the UNESCO World Heritage Committee's transnational nomination at the end of 2022.

Meanwhile, it should also be noted that as a result of the Karabakh war and Armenia's occupation of Azerbaijani lands, a lot of Azerbaijan's cultural heritage suffered enormous damage.
Police investigate 114 people in Axarquia in crackdown on illegal irrigation The Guardia Civil has already arrested some 30 farmers and business owners in connection with water used for subtropical crops

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Police are cracking down on illegal wells and water-looting in Malaga as levels in reservoirs remain dangerously low due to the ongoing drought crisis.

Guardia Civil's nature protection service (Seprona) has launched an operation against illegal water use, targeting a series of subtropical plantations in the Axarquia district in the east of Malaga province.

The original complaint filed by the Environmental Prosecutor's Office in September last year identified 114 people who are currently under police investigation by Seprona. They are farmers, business owners or members of irrigation communities (groups of crop growers).

Initially, about 30 of them have been arrested and questioned in the last few days. They were then released and warned they would be summoned to make a statement in the Velez-Malaga court that is leading the investigation.

Sources from the High Court of Justice of Andalusia (TSJA) and the Environmental Prosecutor's Office confirmed to SUR that the specific offences being investigated in the operation are crimes against natural resources and the environment, and the illegal "diversion" of water.

Illegal wells

The extraction of more than one million cubic metres of water from an underground water system (called Metapelitas de Sierra Tejeda-Almijara) was detected through three illegal wells that have been operating for years and have been used to irrigate subtropical plantations, mainly avocado trees, according to police.

This underground water had been "over-exploited" said the police and its state of conservation has been described as "poor".

Officers calculated that the damage, in financial terms, caused by these three wells alone amounted to 343,644 euros.

Another offence under investigation by Seprona concerns water managed by several irrigation communities, which administer water to a number of authorised plots.

According to police reports, this water has also been used on more than 220 hectares of unauthorised land in the past five years, which would have caused damage to the public water reserves to a value of one and a half million euros. That figure corresponded to just one of the three communities under investigation.

Seprona provided an even more alarming figure; the total number of illegal wells and pools located in that irrigation community amounts to nine, of which seven (77% of the total) are illegal, which shows the "manifest disregard for compliance with environmental regulations and in full knowledge of the serious water situation in the area", according to one of the reports.

Drought crisis

The crackdown on illegal water wells and practices comes as the drought crisis across Spain worsens. According to Aemet, it has rained 22% less than usual in Spain.

The country's water reserve is beginning to suffer seriously and is already at 51% of its capacity, 15 points below the average for the last decade. The situation is particularly grim south of the peninsula, where reservoirs in the Guadalquivir basin only store a quarter of their capacity; 25.6%.

The situation is also critical in La Axarquia, with the La Vinuela reservoir at 9.7% of its capacity, already close to the historic low reached in October in 2008, when it was left with only 15 cubic hectometres. It currently stores 16 hectometres, when its capacity is 165.
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The incentives available through the new CHIPS and Science Act are apparently a big hit with semiconductor companies, so much so that some firms that apply for benefits wont get them.

Weve received over 200 statements of interest from companies in America and all over the world saying that they would like to participate, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo told Yahoo Finance. I mean, we are vastly oversubscribed. Obviously, not everybody who wants money will be able to receive it.
Update Thursday: The Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said Fratangelo remains free without restrictions. The DAs office will seek a higher bail when Fratangelo has been issued new charges or a grand jury indicts him, he said. Fitzpatrick, who had questioned where Fratangelo obtained the money for bail, said it was determined the money came from his grandparents who put up their house as collateral.

Original Story:

Van Buren, N.Y.  The Onondaga County District Attorney said Monday he wants a Central New York man accused of extorting girls for naked photos in jail, not released on bail.

The man was living in a home thats 300 feet from Baldwinsville Christian Academy, a K-12 school in the town of Van Buren. Its not far from Ray Middle School.

Louis E. Fratangelo Jr., 24, was arrested and accused of extorting middle-school children, between the ages of 10 and 14, after he hacked into their social media and stole naked photos, state police said Monday. Hes also accused of raping a child and faces gun charges, they said.

Fratangelo, who was arrested on April 28, posted $250,000 cash bail for his release on Friday, according to the Onondaga County Sheriffs Offices Custoday Office.

Related article: How a girls brave call to 911 led to arrest of CNY man who police say extorted kids for naked photos

Fratangelos release is a concern to DA William Fitzpatrick.

People who enjoy gratification from sex with underage victims, that is not something thats curable or rehabilitatable, Fitzpatrick said.

Police said they found 50,000 images of child pornography when they raided the home at 7324 Van Buren Road on April 28. The pornography includes items Fratangelo made with a local child, police said. Police said they also found two illegal assault weapons in his home.

At his arriagnment on April 29, the district attorneys office initially asked that bail be set at $1 million, Fitzpatrick said. Syracuse City Court Judge Felicia Pitts Davis, handling centralized arraignments that day, set the bail at $250,000.

Fratangelo has not been placed under any restrictions following his release, according to Fitzpatrick. But the DA said he hopes to change that.

Fitzpatrick said his office will make an application to the court to determine how Fratangelo paid his bail. Fitzpatrick said Fratangelo is currently unemployed and was assigned an attorney for his case.

Following a hearing on the source of the $250,000, applications for orders of protection and restrictions on Fratangelos movement and freedom will be made, Fitzpatrick said.

Police said Fratangelo targeted kids attending Pine Grove Middle School in the East Syracuse Minoa School district in the town of Manlius.

Police said they believe Fratangelo also traveled to meet one middle school-age child and may have traveled to meet others in the Syracuse area.

At the Van Buren Road home Monday, a man who said hes Fratangelos uncle said Fratangelo is no longer living at the home. Fratangelo, who was unemployed, lived in the home rent-free for about three years, he said, declining to give his name. He said Fratangelo is now living in Syracuse with family members.

The DA and police believe there are more victims and state police ask anyone with information to contact State Police Investigator Gallo at 315-366-6000 or Manlius Police.

Fratangelo was charged with the following:

Second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, a felony. (2 counts)

Use a child in a sexual performance, a felony

Two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, a felony

Third-degree criminal sexual act, a felony

Third-degree rape, a felony

Possession of a sexual performance by a child, a felony. (2 counts)

Unlawful purchase of body armor, a misdemeanor; endangering the welfare of a child and unlawfully dealing with fireworks and dangerous fireworks, violations. (2 counts)

Louis E. Fratangelo Jr., 24, was arrested after police searched this home at 7324 Van Buren Road in the town of Van Buren on April 28. Inside, the police said they found 50,000 items of child pornography and two illegal guns. (Catie O'Toole | cotoole@syracuse.com)

Editors note: Syracuse.com reporter Catie OToole contributed to this report.

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. World cultural heritage is facing a number of challenges, International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) President Teresa Patricio said in a video message to the participants of the international event on the topic "Professional development of specialists in the field of World Heritage", Trend reports.

The event is taking place in Baku.

"A number of changes are taking place in the world, and they affect cultural heritage as well. The ongoing international training will help us to meet these challenges. I thank Azerbaijan for hosting such an important event," she said.

The event in Baku gathered experts in the field of cultural heritage from 17 countries, for the first time at the invitation of the UNESCO - ICOMOS advisory body. The event is attended by representatives of France, Poland, Israel, Turkiye, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Russia, Romania, Moldova, Georgia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Egypt, Oman and other countries.

Azerbaijan has a number of properties inscribed on he World Heritage List of UNESCO. Among them are Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape, Historic Centre of Sheki with the Khans Palace, Walled City of Baku with the Shirvanshah's Palace and Maiden Tower, etc.

Such elements of Azerbaijani culture as Mugham (traditional musical form, characterized by a large degree of improvisation), Art of Azerbaijani Ashiqs (combines poetry, storytelling, dance and vocal and instrumental music into a traditional performance art that stands as a symbol of Azerbaijani culture), Novruz (traditional holiday which is celebrated with coming of spring), traditional art of Azerbaijani carpet weaving, craftsmanship and performance art of the Tar and Kamancha (national music instruments), Chovqan, a traditional Karabakh horse-riding game, and others were inscribed in the UNESCO list of intangible heritage.

In April 2023, Azerbaijan said it submitted its proposal (on the country's Hirkan Forests) for the UNESCO World Heritage Committee's transnational nomination at the end of 2022.

Meanwhile, it should also be noted that as a result of the Karabakh war and Armenia's occupation of Azerbaijani lands, a lot of Azerbaijan's cultural heritage suffered enormous damage.
Manlius, NY  A brave middle-school students call to 911 and quick thinking is a big reason a Central New York man has been charged with extorting local kids online for naked photographs and videos.

The man, posing as one of her friends, gained access to the 13-year-old girls social media account and stole naked photos of her, said Manlius police Sgt. Ken Hatter. The man threatened to release the photos to her family and friends if she didnt take and post a video of herself stripping, Hatter said.

She refused and he sent the photos to her friends, he said.

That was her breaking point. She deleted her account and called 911.

The girl also made a key decision: Snapchat sent her a message with the mans IP address and she saved it, Hatter said. She gave that to police, which they used to eventually identify the man and get a search warrant.

She was courageous to come forward despite peer pressure, shame and embarrassment, Hatter said. She stepped up and became the voice for others so this man could be stopped.

The Pine Grove Middle School girls call in January started a massive investigation involving New York State Police, the FBI and Manlius police.

On April 28, they swooped in at the suspects Van Buren home after executing a search warrant and arrested him, state police announced Monday.

Police suspect there are other victims.

More than 50,000 photos of boys and girls were found on his computer in his home in Van Buren, Hatter said.

Louis E. Fratangelo Jr., 24, was arrested and charged with nine felonies, three misdemeanors and other crimes, state police said. He was released from jail after posting bail.

Hatter said there are about half a dozen Pine Grove victims. Police know of three for sure. Two have provided information and agreed to multiple interviews with police, he said. There may be more, he said.

Police are in the process of trying to identify all the photos and determine if there are other victims in the ESM school district, and in other districts. They have contacted Fayetteville-Manlius school officials to make them aware, Hatter said, although the victims could be from anywhere.

Hatter talked to Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard Monday to explain how the online extortion scheme worked and how the girl helped police break the case.

Fratangelo pretended online to be a 13-year-old girl named Lexi, Hatter said. The man asked to exchange nude photos, eventually earning the girls trust and telling her he was an adult male.

He eventually got her user name and password for her Snapchat account, police said. Posing as her, he asked a second girl if he could store her nude photos on the friends account, Hatter said.

The girl agreed and he accessed her account, stealing her photos and accessing her friends, Hatter said. Thats when he tried to exploit her saying he would send her nude photos to her friends and family unless she videotaped herself stripping naked, he said.

She refused, so he followed through on his threat and sent nude photos of her to the friends on her list, Hatter said.

That was when she deleted her account and called 911.

A Manlius police officer came to her home and talked with her and her father, and then turned the case over to Hatter and another investigator, Brianna Sparks.

Police contacted an ESM school resource officer, and Sparks helped interview victims. The girl gave names of other victims, Hatter said. Not all of those have cooperated yet, Hatter said.

Fratangelo had Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook accounts, state police said.

On April 28, police searched Fratangelos home at 7324 Van Buren Road. Investigators discovered and seized two illegal AR-style firearms, body armor, child pornography and illegal fireworks, police said. He was arrested that day.

A state police forensics unit found thousands of images of child pornography ranging in age from infant to pre-teen, police said. They found child pornography they say was produced by Fratangelo with a local child. There also was evidence of narcotics and firearms trafficking, police said.

The 13-year-old victim who called police  and her 13-year-old friend  provided police with the information they needed to make an arrest, Hatter said. Without the girl calling police on her own, this wouldnt have happened so quickly, if at all, he said.

The information she had made a huge impact, Hatter said. The victims are the unsung heroes. If it wasnt for her coming forward, we wouldnt have identified him as quickly.

***

State police believe there may be more victims and ask anyone with knowledge to call State Police Investigator Gallo at (315) 366-6000 or Manlius Police.

***

Fratangelo was charged with the following:

Second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, a felony. (2 counts)

Use a child in a sexual performance, a felony

Two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, a felony

Third-degree criminal sexual act, a felony

Third-degree rape, a felony

Possession of a Sexual Performance by a Child, a felony. (2 counts)

Unlawful purchase of body armor, a misdemeanor; endangering the welfare of a child and unlawfully dealing with fireworks and dangerous fireworks, violations. (2 counts)

Fratangelo was arraigned and transported to the Onondaga County Justice Center. He was arraigned and bail was set at $250,000. He made bail and was released.

Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com
At half-past two on the afternoon of May 8, 1873, the new college bell rang out brightly, calling the assembled crowd, led by Chancellor Alexander Winchell, to order inside the magnificent new edifice that looked out from its perch high above the bustling city below.

For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace. The Mountains and hills before you and the trees of the fields clap their handsand it shall be to remember the Lord, an everlasting sign.

With those words, the quartette of vocalists ceased, ending the opening hymn, Seek ye the Lord, at the dedication of the Hall of Languages on Piety Hill.

It had been nearly two years since the cornerstone was laid for the first building on Syracuse Universitys new campus.

Over the ensuing century and a half, the city and the university grew up together like siblings in symbiotic relationship that has benefitted both entities to an extent that the citizens gathered there on that beautiful May afternoon could have only dreamed of.

The story of that springtime celebration began amidst a bitter Central New York winter.

In February 1870, the Methodist Church held its annual state convention in the bustling Salt City.

Students walk in front of the Hall of Languages at Syracuse University. Rick Moriarty rmoriarty@syracuse.com, file

During the meetings, members of the church leadership, who were embroiled in a protracted controversy with Genesee College, a Methodist school in Lima, N.Y., passed a resolution to found a new university in Syracuse, a city ripe with opportunity and one where Methodism had thrived for decades.

Overcome with joy, Reverend Jesse T. Peck, a graduate of Cazenovia Seminary and the presiding member of the convention, pledged a staggering $25,000, including his future earnings, towards the $100,000 needed to fund this new Christian endeavor.

Pecks generosity spurred three other attendees, including the firearms manufacturer, Eliphalet Remington Jr., of Ilion, N.Y., Francis Root, Rev. J.H. Crawford, and Syracuse salt baron and judge, Hon. George F. Comstock, to pledge the remaining funds.

On March 30, 1870, the Secretary of State for N.Y. certified the articles of incorporation for Syracuse University.

Accordingly, Rev. Peck was elected the President of the Board of Trustees.

Judge Comstock offered fifty acres of his land holdings in the southeastern part of the city adjacent to Oakwood Cemetery, overlooking Onondaga Lake, for a very fair price.

Rev. Peck and the Board purchased the so-called Comstock Tract and began planning the construction of the campus. It would be a place dedicated to the advancement of religion and science.

Work proceeded.

Just a few days after Rev. Peck laid the cornerstone for the Hall of Languages on August 31, 1871, the fledgling university held its first classes in the Myers Block, on the corner of Montgomery and East Genesee Street in downtown Syracuse.

That first class was comprised of 41 students, including seven women. While the students toiled in their classrooms in the Myers Block, scores of laborers toiled to build the universitys new home.

- The Myers Block located on the corner of Montgomery and East Genesee Streets in Syracuse, circa 1875.Provided by Onondaga Historical Association

Designed by noted local architect Horatio Nelson White, whose Onondaga County Savings Bank (Gridley Building) was completed in 1867, the Hall of Languages is a beautiful example of the Second Empire Style.

Costing nearly $130,000 ($2.7 million in 2020), it was constructed out of Onondaga limestone quarried in the valley. The limestone contains the fossilized remains of the areas very first inhabitants, sea life and coral, vestiges of the massive sea that once covered the region.

Local stonecutters and masons, Randall and Nesdall, supervised the project. Their stone yard was located on the corner of South Salina and Jackson Streets (the current site of the Syracuse Community Health Center).

They utilized cutting-edge construction techniques, which mixed wood, iron and masonry to build the iconic structure. The eyes of the city were transfixed on the project.

According to the reports in the Syracuse Courier, the work had been of great interest to the people of Syracuse from the time the first sod was turned, such that scarcely a stone has been laid that can not be recognized by some one of our citizens.

Accordingly, the joy, satisfaction, and pride were palpable on dedication day of our university, as it was called by the Courier.

Among the dignitaries assembled in the Hall of Languages chapel that day were Peck, now a Bishop, Andrew White, the first President of Cornell University (White, in fact, had once pressed Ezra Cornell to locate his university on the very same spot), and Frederick A. Barnard, President of Columbia. The festivities that day were marked by solemnity and gaiety.

Hymns were sung alongside the newly incorporated University Glee Clubs rendition of the bawdy satire, Kafoozalum that was so well-received the crowd called for an encore.

As the revelry subsided, Bishop Peck, the man who had labored so intently for over three years in bringing this day to fruition, articulated the difficulty in realizing the power of an idea.

The university, and the new Hall of Languages, were the manifestation of an idea that arose in the mind of a single man but was found at length to be a general idea.

He thanked the community and various business departments for their support, financial and otherwise in creating a university that Peck was certain would be equal to the emergencies of the future.

Among the several speakers of the day, it was Frank Barnard, the President of Columbia, the states oldest college, who offered up a vision that tied Americas past and rapid ascent among the nations of the world with the importance of institutions of higher learning and the diligence required of an educated citizenry.

Harkening back to the American Revolution, then only a century off, Barnard lauded the hardy pioneers whose chief requisite was physical force. NO longer though, Barnard commented, was the sword mightier than the pen and the axe more powerful than either.

Education, he continued, too much neglected in those days had produced brilliant educational galaxy of which Syracuse University was but the latest borne of this lustrous family.

Barnard argued that the rapid developments in manufacturers made during the last decades were but the latest examples of the indebtedness of the arts chiefly productive of wealth to science.

Science, according to Barnard, was a system of learning, and universities like Syracuse were central to that system.

As he neared the end of his remarks, Barnard echoed the sentiments of many of the Revolutionary generation, when he reminded the audience only eight years removed from the ravages of the Civil War, the countrys second revolution, that the American education system was essential to the security of the largest welfare and highest happiness to the people and to the permanent maintenance of their justly prized political institutions.

As such, it was his hope that it would never be overlooked or inadequately provided for.
By Brendan J. Lyons | Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  The number of firearms being seized by police from individuals found to be likely at risk of harm to themselves or others has soared so much in the past year that evidence rooms in some State Police barracks have had to be reconfigured or expanded to store the weapons.

The increase follows an executive order issued last year by Gov. Kathy Hochul that mandated troopers file court applications for extreme risk protection orders whenever they encounter a person who is believed to be a danger and in possession of a firearm.

The Red Flag Law was enacted in 2019, but last year Hochul also signed into law several measures that expanded who may file an ERPO petition to include health care practitioners who have examined an individual within the last six months. The law change also requires police and district attorneys to file extreme risk protection orders when they have credible information that someone is likely to engage in conduct that could result in serious harm.

In 2020, judges issued protection orders against 255 people across New York. This year, in just over four months, the number of individuals subjected to emergency or temporary risk protection orders topped 2,120. And between 2020 and last November, State Police had seized 2,521 firearms under emergency protection orders  a figure that does not include seizures made by more than 150 other New York police agencies.

In some troops storage for seized guns was running short, but we have managed it by reconfiguring storage spaces to accommodate for the increased seizures, said Beau Duffy, a State Police spokesman.

The broader measures enacted under the law have faced civil rights challenges and some judges in New York have issued rulings finding the process unconstitutional. But those rulings have occurred in court cases in which neither State Police nor the state attorney generals office are named parties in the litigation  only participants  and so the decisions have not resulted in the law being struck down.

Some of the rulings have cited a U.S. Supreme Court decision last year that struck down New Yorks onerous concealed carry laws; the nations highest court reiterated in that case that the constitutional right to bear arms in public for self-defense is not a second-class right, subject to an entirely different body of rules than the other Bill of Rights guarantees.

The challenges of New Yorks Red Flag Law have been brought by attorneys for those who were alleged to be likely to cause serious harm and faced the seizure of their firearms. Some of those attorneys have argued that the process conflicts with state Mental Health Law, which cites the same dangerousness standard but requires a physician to determine whether a person presents a likelihood to result in serious harm. Under the Red Flag Law, those analyses are in most of the cases being made by police officers and prosecutors.

Why should the law not treat similarly situated people the same, with the same constitutional guarantees and protections, if both are deemed to present as having a likelihood to result in serious harm, state Supreme Court Justice Thomas E. Moran wrote in a decision in December involving a Monroe County couple.

In that case, which involved a man filing an application for a temporary extreme risk protection order against his estranged girlfriend, Moran noted that he was not unmindful of the dangers firearms may pose when possessed in the hands of a person suffering a mental illness, harboring a criminal intent, or both. He sided with argument made by the womans attorney that the process of the Red Flag Law conflicted with the standards set by state Mental Health Law.

He ruled that seizing someones lawfully possessed weapons, without adequate constitutional safeguards, cannot be condoned by this court. While some may advocate that the ends justify the means in support of (the law), where those means violate a fundamental right under our Bill of Rights to achieve their ends, then the law, on its face, cannot stand.

He said it cannot be stated clearly enough that the Second Amendment is not a second class right, nor should it ever be treated as such.

But Morans decision, while cited in other cases, will not change the application of the Red Flag Law. For the law to be struck down, it may require a challenge in U.S. District Court in which a person with proper standing to bring the action files a petition against the State Police or state attorney generals office, which last year began representing troopers and investigators in the civil proceedings.

Theyre not binding on the state but theyre certainly persuasive authority, said Daniel Strollo, a Rochester attorney who represented the woman whose guns had been subject to seizure in the Monroe County case. I think one of the reasons youre seeing the State Police get so involved in these is many local or county-level law enforcement organizations are headed by people who agree that this is unconstitutional and refuse to enforce an unconstitutional law.

But there have been decisions by other judges upholding the constitutionality of the Red Flag Law.

In a ruling last month in Cortland County, state Supreme Court Justice Mark G. Masler issued a ruling in which he said that Morans decision three months earlier was not well founded. Masler asserted that the procedures to hospitalize someone or force them to take medicine involuntarily involve different standards than using a fact-based inquiry to determine whether a persons conduct should prompt the seizure of their firearms for safety reasons.

(T)he extreme risk protection statute does not require findings that respondent is mentally ill, or that the likelihood of serious harm result from mental illness ... rather, it requires only a determination that the respondent is likely to engage in conduct that would result in serious harm to the respondent or others, Masler wrote. In other words, a person who has threatened or attempted suicide, engaged in other conduct that demonstrates a danger to self, or engaged in homicidal or other violent behavior placing others in reasonable fear of serious harm satisfies the definition without the need for expert (medical) opinion.

The cases almost always involve firearms and whether a person who poses a potential public safety threat should have those weapons seized by police through a court order  either temporarily or for up to a year. The governors order last year was issued days after a mass shooting in Buffalo in which 10 Black people were killed by an 18-year-old white man in what police said was a racially motivated attack.

The Times Union reported in the wake of that order that many of the Red Flag Law cases were being dismissed by judges because troopers and State Police investigators filing the applications were often appearing at hearings without attorneys. In the proceedings, which are similar to proceedings in which someone fights a traffic ticket, the troopers had been instructed by State Police to not make legal arguments.

After the Times Unions story, the state attorney generals office reversed course and sent an attorney to a hearing to represent a State Police investigator who had filed an application for an extreme risk protection order. That office subsequently announced it was working with the governors office on addressing this in the long term and had begun assigning attorneys to assist State Police to ensure red flag laws are executed and firearms kept away from dangerous individuals.

Since December, the attorney generals office represented State Police in 413 extreme risk protection order cases, with judges declining to issue orders in less than a dozen of those cases.

Hochuls office had acknowledged last year that since New Yorks law took effect in 2019, the lack of uniform legal representation for petitioners has contributed to the dismissal of some ERPO applications, and recognizing that, we have been working with the attorney generals office, district attorneys, and the Office of Court Administration to improve these proceedings and ensure adequate support for State Police.

___

(c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com
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The 1st Business Forum of Baku Higher Oil School of SOCAR (BHOS) dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev has been held at BHOS under the theme of Emerging business trends and education in the framework of new realities.

At the opening of the event, Rector of Baku Higher Oil School Elmar Gasimov spoke about the importance of the forum, which is a useful platform for discussing the close relationship between business and education in a rapidly changing era, developing various approaches to respond to challenges, preparing educational institutions for this process and exchanging views about new ideas. The rector noted that the topics discussed at this forum dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Great Leader, which was attended by representatives of government agencies, foreign and local universities, and business entities, are distinguished by their relevance. He expressed confidence that the forum will achieve its goals and make a new contribution to business and educational relations. Elmar Gasimov emphasized that BHOS plans to hold such forums on a regular basis in the future.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan Orkhan Mammadov stressed the importance of holding such business forums to establish close cooperation between business companies and higher education institutions. He noted that KOBIA works closely with higher education institutions and implements joint initiatives to use the scientific potential of universities and nurture students as modern, innovative entrepreneurs. Orkhan Mammadov also spoke about the support mechanisms and services implemented in the development of small and medium-sized businesses.

In his speech, MP Vugar Bayramov spoke about new approaches to education in the light of new challenges, the entry of the education sector into business, and the importance of joint relations between business and education.

The forum continued with panel discussions.

On the first panel, Dean of the Business School of AKFA University in Uzbekistan, Odiljon Abdurazzakov, spoke on the topic Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial Universities in the Digital Age. Dean of the Business Administration Faculty of Izmir Katip Celebi University, Sevtap Unal, also spoke on this panel on the topic "Experimental Marketing as one of the modern marketing strategies."

The second panel of the forum discussed changing business trends with representatives from the business sector. Chairman of the Board of Directors of eManat, Ruslan Talybov, and Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the BERC Group, Kanan Agayev, spoke on this panel.

At the end of the event, Head of the Business Administration Department of BHOS Altay Ismayilov made a presentation on the results of the forum.
Launch of the 4th Catchment Science conference 2023

Teagasc and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine are delighted to launch Catchment Science 2023, an international conference taking place later this year.

Details of Catchment Science 2023, an international conference hosted by the Agricultural Catchments Programme (ACP) and funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), which will take place in Wexford from 7th-9th November 2023 were announced today. Pictured at the launch were, left to right; Tom OConnell, Edward Burgess Teagasc ACP; Noeleen McDonald, DAFM; Per-Erik Mellander and Bridget Lynch Teagasc ACP; Ted Massey, DAFM; Ognjen Zurovec, Jason Galloway, Teagasc ACP; Karen Daly, Head of the Teagasc Department of Environment, Soils and Land Use.

Catchment Science 2023 is the fourth international conference hosted by the Agricultural Catchments Programme (ACP), funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), and run by Teagasc. This major international event will be held between the 7th and 9th November 2023 in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford, Ireland and will bring together scientists, regulators and practitioners engaged with water quality and gaseous emissions in agricultural river catchments.

The conference will be a mix of scientific presentations, panel discussions, with farmer and stakeholder contributions, and a number of field visit options. The conference website is now live and open for scientific abstract submissions at the following link https://teagascacp.clr.events/event/133682. Indicative themes and topics for the conference in November include:

Soil fertility, nutrient and carbon management

Gaseous emissions and carbon sequestration

Land to water contaminant loss

Long-term, in-situ monitoring and catchment modelling of water quality and greenhouse gases

Climate induced changes

Running a living lab in agricultural settings

Aquatic ecology: impacts of hydro morphology and contaminant stressors

Approaches for mitigation strategies

Socio-economy: attitudes, perceptions and impacts of policy change

Knowledge exchange and Stakeholder engagement

Governance and policy implementation

Speaking at the launch of Catchment Science 2023, Per-Erik Mellander, Agricultural Catchments Programme said; I am very excited to take part in the organisation of this conference for the fourth time. It is very inspiring bringing scientists, regulators and practitioners together in this unique event.

Ted Massey, Senior Inspector, Nitrates and Biodiversity Division, DAFM added; The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is delighted to be able to support Teagasc in hosting what will be a very relevant and timely conference.

The launch of Catchment Science 2023 today is part of the Agricultural Catchments Week 2023, which is running from 5th to 12th May. The ACP is running a dedicated week of activities showcasing its research and advisory programme. The theme for the week is A Living Lab Monitoring Water Quality and Gaseous Emissions. There is a mix of in-person events, written articles, podcasts, and finishing with a public open day this Friday, 12th May at the water monitoring outlet in the Timoleague catchment located in County Cork. More details of the activities are available at the following link: https://www.teagasc.ie/environment/water-quality/agricultural-catchments/agricultural-catchments-week-2023/
DicKy Senior - BHPian



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The curious case of control stalks in the Indian market Lexus models



https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-...h-lx-450d.html (Driven: The Lexus Range (ES 300h, RX 450h & LX 450d))



Indian market 2018 Lexus ES300h with LHD control stalks.







Latest Indian market 2022 Lexus NX350h with LHD control stalks.







VNarayanan Sir's 2017 Bagheera with LHD control stalks.







Here we have 2023 Australian market Lexus ES with correct control stalk orientation.







And the ASEAN market Lexus ES with correct control stalk orientation.











A pet peeve of mine, this subject has been discussed to death in the forum for decades now.



https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/techn...some-cars.html (Why indicator/wiper on different sides in some cars?)



https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/india...ontrols-3.html (Market Research 101 - Indian mainstream car buyers prefer RHD controls)



Why would Lexus give LHD oriented control stalks for the Indian models, when they give proper RHD controls in other RHD markets have confused me to no end. The first reason I could up with is that we were given UK spec models. Why that thought? Just that I read in some magazine that we were getting the UK spec cars as imports, namely the 2000s Prado. The CBU Kizashi straight from Japan also had LHD control stalks. Add to that the initial batch of Dmax pickups (double cabin) that was showcased in India too had the control stalks in LHD orientation. Again, UK spec.



Why the UK uses LHD orientation?



Quote: DicKy Originally Posted by UK is pretty forced due to being an island in the midst of LHD markets.

In fact, if it was Volkswagen or Renault that had came instead of Maruti (read Suzuki), we may well have been forced as well to use LHD controls like UK does.

Funny thing is, in many UK based car reviews the poor guys point out RHD control stalks as oddity and cost cutting from the Oriental Far East, when in fact with the absence of strong domestic players, the cars from Ford/VW had made them get used to LHD stalks borne from cost cutting in the first place.



JDM Lexus LX570 with correct RHD control stalk orientation.







Australian market 2023 Lexus LX600 with correct RHD control stalk orientation.







The 2023 Lexus LX500d shown at the 2023 Auto Expo. Presumably Indian spec. With LHD oriented control stalks.







Another argument was that Lexus is primarily a North American focussed company, so they would naturally use LHD control stalks especially in models like the Lexus ES. But that is a moot point, considering how other markets get RHD controls. Even the OG Lexus LS400 targeted at the US market had the correct control stalk orientation in RHD markets.







Only rational reason i could come up with is that they are intentionally giving us LHD control stalks!!! Not for the usual cost cutting reasons as the Europeans do, but they are bending over backwards for the targeted customers. The targeted customer will be used to German/ European cars with the LHD oriented control stalks, so double ironically Lexus may have decided to give LHD control stalks in a RHD car so as to make their customers comfortable. Then again, the higher end Toyotas sold in India are (thankfully) all having the correct RHD oriented control stalks. Personally, I abhor it as I firmly believe in the correct stalk orientation, but then neither am I a Lexus customer for the foreseeable future nor am I in charge of their product planning for India. Anyway, with automatic transmissions and an EV future, it is less of an issue. Still, I am amused at the curious case of Lexus giving LHD control stalks in the Indian market Lexus.



Pics credit to respective owners. Ever since Team-bhp had the first drive of the Lexus lineup in 2016, the first thing that caught my eyes was the LHD orientation of the control stalks.Indian market 2018 Lexus ES300h with LHD control stalks.Latest Indian market 2022 Lexus NX350h with LHD control stalks.VNarayanan Sir's 2017with LHD control stalks.Here we have 2023 Australian market Lexus ES with correct control stalk orientation.And the ASEAN market Lexus ES with correct control stalk orientation.A pet peeve of mine, this subject has been discussed to death in the forum for decades now.Why would Lexus give LHD oriented control stalks for the Indian models, when they give proper RHD controls in other RHD markets have confused me to no end. The first reason I could up with is that we were given UK spec models. Why that thought? Just that I read in some magazine that we were getting the UK spec cars as imports, namely the 2000s Prado. The CBU Kizashi straight from Japan also had LHD control stalks. Add to that the initial batch of Dmax pickups (double cabin) that was showcased in India too had the control stalks in LHD orientation. Again, UK spec.Why the UK uses LHD orientation?But just like how the Isuzu Dmax got RHD control stalks when production was localized, Lexus could have easily given RHD control stalks when the cars started hitting the market officially. Also, the UK spec argument doesnt hold water when we get models that the UK market doesnt. Like the Lexus LX. Also we get models that are different in spec compared to the UK.JDM Lexus LX570 with correct RHD control stalk orientation.Australian market 2023 Lexus LX600 with correct RHD control stalk orientation.The 2023 Lexus LX500d shown at the 2023 Auto Expo. Presumably Indian spec. With LHD oriented control stalks.Another argument was that Lexus is primarily a North American focussed company, so they would naturally use LHD control stalks especially in models like the Lexus ES. But that is a moot point, considering how other markets get RHD controls. Even the OG Lexus LS400 targeted at the US market had the correct control stalk orientation in RHD markets.Only rational reason i could come up with is that they are intentionally giving us LHD control stalks!!! Not for the usual cost cutting reasons as the Europeans do, but they are bending over backwards for the targeted customers. The targeted customer will be used to German/ European cars with the LHD oriented control stalks, so double ironically Lexus may have decided to give LHD control stalks in a RHD car so as to make their customers comfortable. Then again, the higher end Toyotas sold in India are () all having the correct RHD oriented control stalks.Personally, I abhor it as I firmly believe in the correct stalk orientation, but then neither am I a Lexus customer for the foreseeable future nor am I in charge of their product planning for India. Anyway, with automatic transmissions and an EV future, it is less of an issue. Still, I am amused at the curious case of Lexus giving LHD control stalks in the Indian market Lexus.
sri_tesla BHPian



Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Hyderabad Posts: 879 Thanked: 4,465 Times

Ola Electric to refund charger cost to customers | EDIT: Ather Energy, TVS and Hero MotoCorp too



But as per the FAME II scheme, the company would have received more subsidy had they not sold the charger separately. The government raised objections with Ola Electric, asking it to compensate the buyers who had purchased chargers separately. It also said that the subsidy given to the company will be cut if Ola Electric sticks to sell chargers separately. The company had no option but to comply. In a meeting with an official of the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the company agreed to return money to the buyers. Once the company completes the condition of returning all money to the charger buyers, the Ministry will release the remaining subsidy.



Source:

https://www.zeebiz.com/automobile/ne...subsidy-232966



"The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) will not be taking any further action against Ola Electric, as the company announced in its letter to ARAI dated April 30, 2023 that, on their own volition, they will reimburse the price (approximately Rs. 130 crore) of the off-board charger to all customers who have bought the off-board charger as an accessory when purchasing an Ola S1Pro model scooter from FY 2019-20 until March 30, 2023", said a government official.



Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motor Company, Ather Energy and Ola Electric have been under scrutiny by Ministry of Heavy Industries following whistleblower complaints. According to the complaints, all four companies were charging customers over and above the Rs 1.5 lakh threshold under the central government's FAME scheme for availing the subsidies. The companies had earlier claimed that the additional cost was for additional software features and the off board charger. Both Ather Energy and Ola Electric have also reduced the cost of their electric scooters to meet the scheme's eligibility criteria.



Ola Electric has recently brought down the cost of their electric scooter from Rs 1.39 lakh to Rs 1.24 lakh, inclusive of the cost of charger and software features. Ola Electric is also likely to submit a duly certified statement to ARAI when all customers have received amount due to them.



Source:

https://www.cnbctv18.com/auto/ola-el...r-16540231.htm



This separate invoicing for software packs, chargers, etc... started initially by Ather Energy when they released the Ather 450X and was followed by the likes of Ola and TVS. The withholding of the subsidies is one of the reasons why Ola reduced the prices of their S1 Pro scooter. Ather went a step further and nerfed their entire scooter lineup (both 450plus and 450x) by removing all the features and bundling a useless 250W charger.



The subsidy amount was withheld from the companies for the last few months. I wonder if TVS will reimburse the charger cost for my iQube S. I was charged Rs 9,500 for the charger and it was billed separately. Based on the sales numbers of FY23, Ola is expected to receive Rs 1,000 crores, while TVS and Ather are expected to receive around Rs 400 crores each. If you have purchased an Ola Electric scooter and shelled out anywhere between Rs 9,000 and Rs 19,000 for a charger, chances are that you will be getting your money back. The company indicated on Monday that it would refund the buyers who spent Rs 9,000 to Rs 19,000 to purchase the charger for their electric scooter. The company decided to do so after the Ministry of Heavy Industries said that Ola Electric would get the remaining subsidy cleared only when it returns the cost of the charger to the buyers.But as per the FAME II scheme, the company would have received more subsidy had they not sold the charger separately. The government raised objections with Ola Electric, asking it to compensate the buyers who had purchased chargers separately. It also said that the subsidy given to the company will be cut if Ola Electric sticks to sell chargers separately. The company had no option but to comply. In a meeting with an official of the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the company agreed to return money to the buyers. Once the company completes the condition of returning all money to the charger buyers, the Ministry will release the remaining subsidy."The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) will not be taking any further action against Ola Electric, as the company announced in its letter to ARAI dated April 30, 2023 that, on their own volition, they will reimburse the price (approximately Rs. 130 crore) of the off-board charger to all customers who have bought the off-board charger as an accessory when purchasing an Ola S1Pro model scooter from FY 2019-20 until March 30, 2023", said a government official.Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motor Company, Ather Energy and Ola Electric have been under scrutiny by Ministry of Heavy Industries following whistleblower complaints. According to the complaints, all four companies were charging customers over and above the Rs 1.5 lakh threshold under the central government's FAME scheme for availing the subsidies. The companies had earlier claimed that the additional cost was for additional software features and the off board charger. Both Ather Energy and Ola Electric have also reduced the cost of their electric scooters to meet the scheme's eligibility criteria.Ola Electric has recently brought down the cost of their electric scooter from Rs 1.39 lakh to Rs 1.24 lakh, inclusive of the cost of charger and software features. Ola Electric is also likely to submit a duly certified statement to ARAI when all customers have received amount due to them.This separate invoicing for software packs, chargers, etc... started initially by Ather Energy when they released the Ather 450X and was followed by the likes of Ola and TVS. The withholding of the subsidies is one of the reasons why Ola reduced the prices of their S1 Pro scooter. Ather went a step further and nerfed their entire scooter lineup (both 450plus and 450x) by removing all the features and bundling a useless 250W charger.The subsidy amount was withheld from the companies for the last few months. I wonder if TVS will reimburse the charger cost for my iQube S. I was charged Rs 9,500 for the charger and it was billed separately. Based on the sales numbers of FY23, Ola is expected to receive Rs 1,000 crores, while TVS and Ather are expected to receive around Rs 400 crores each.
Sony announced two additions to its portable Bluetooth speaker lineup today, including the Sony SRS-XV800, a towering, battery-powered model so big it needs wheels to move it around. The much smaller SRS-XB100the most compact in Sonys lineupcan be carried by its detachable strap.

Sony SRS-XV800 party speaker details

The 28 x 12.4 x 14.7-inch (HxWxD) SRS-XV800 ($649.99) is designed to power parties with music and an LED light show. It can also be used for karaoke or small-scale sound reinforcement, thanks to dual 1/4-inch inputs for sources such as a microphone or a guitar. Independent volume controls on these inputs allow you to mix the inputs with other music playing through the speaker.

This news story is part of TechHives in-depth coverage of the best Bluetooth speakers.

The tall speaker is outfitted with five tweeters (four of which are active at any one time, as Ill explain momentarily), dual oversized woofers, and a large bass reflex unit in the front of its enclosure. Two of the five tweeters are mounted in back to deliver omnidirectional sound.

In an interesting twist, laying the speaker on its side disables the right-hand tweeter at the top of the cabinet and activates the one at the bottom, so that it becomes the left-hand tweeter when the speaker is horizontal. This enables the speaker to deliver a true stereo sound stage in either orientation. A pair of XV800s can also be configured as a stereo pair, or you can wirelessly link up to 100 of them for an epic-sized party.

The new Sony SRS-XV800 party speaker has built-in handles and wheels to make it easy to move around. Sony

Using Sonys TV Sound Booster, youll be able to supplement your TVs onboard sound by connecting the speaker to the TVs optical digital audio output, taking advantage of the SRS-XV800s much larger drivers and bouncing sound off the wall behind it.

Large multi-color LED panels are located at the top, top front, and bottom front of the speaker. These lights will pulse in time with whatever music the speaker is playing, and their output can be customized using Sonys Music Center mobile app.

The speaker is also compatible with Sonys Fiestable app, which can be used for karaoke functions, voice changing, echo, and a DJ control feature that can add sound effects to your music. You can also control the speaker directly from a backlit touch-surface panel on its top.

Despite the XV800s large sizethe speaker has two built-in handles and wheels on its bottomSony says its onboard battery should deliver up to 25 hours of listening time. If that isnt enough to see your rave through, a 10-minute charge will deliver up to 3 hours more. Sony says its Battery Care feature helps prevent overcharging and conditions the battery for longer life.

If you want to take the party poolside, the XV800 carries an IPX4 weatherization rating, which means its protected from water sprayed from any direction (Sony doesnt publish a spec for protection from particulate matter ingress). Youll find everything you need to know about IP codes at the preceding link.

Sony SRS-XB100 Bluetooth speaker details

Sonys SRS-XB100 Bluetooth speaker is available in an array of colors. Its detachable strap will make it easy to tote. Sony

At the other end of the size scale, youll find Sonys compact SRS-XB100 Bluetooth speaker ($59.99). This capsule-shaped speaker measures just 3.7 x 2.9 inches (HxW) and weighs 0.6 pounds (Sony did not disclose the weight of the XV800 party speaker). The smaller speaker uses Sonys Sound Diffusion Processor and a single passive radiator.

Two of these speakers can operate as a stereo pair. And when used for telephone calls, Sony tells us the XB100s echo-cancellation feature allows both parties on a call to speak at the same time without either getting cut off.

Sonys SRS-XB100 portable Bluetooth speaker features robust protection from the elements. Sony

The XB100 offers strong protection from the elements, boasting an IP67 weatherization rating. That means its entirely protected from dust ingress and that it can withstand being submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. Sony says the XB100 will deliver up to 16 hours of battery life.

Both the Sony SRS-XV800 and Sony SRS-XB100 are available for preorder now. The $650 party speaker will be available for purchase on May 15; youll be able to pick up the $60 handheld model on May 22.
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A hot potato: For all that we hear about the wonders of modern AI, there are plenty of people wary of the technology's dangers. The latest skeptic is the fifth richest person in the world, Warren Buffett, who has just compared AI to the creation of the atomic bomb.

Berkshire Hathaway CEO Buffett and company vice chairman Charlie Munger were asked about AI during questions at the company's annual meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, over the weekend.

Munger was asked if he believed AI would have a positive impact on stocks, the market, and society as a whole.

"Well, if you went into BYD's factories in China, you would see robotics going at an unbelievable rate. So, we're going to see a lot more robotics in the world. I am personally skeptical of some of the hype that is going into artificial intelligence," Munger replied. "I think old-fashioned intelligence works pretty well."

Buffett admitted that AI can do remarkable things. He said his friend Bill Gates had shown him the latest version of ChatGPT, though its ability to make him laugh was less than impressive. "[...] it couldn't tell jokes. Well, Bill told me that ahead of time, prepared me, and it just isn't there," Buffett said.

The billionaire also sang AI's praises for being able to check all legal opinions and "all kinds of things," but warned that "when something can do all kinds of things, I get a little bit worried."

Buffett then started to sound a bit like Elon Musk, one of the co-founders of ChatGPT creator OpenAI, who once called AI humanity's biggest existential threat and more dangerous than North Korea.

"We did invent for very, very good reason, the atom bomb," Buffett said. "And, World War Two, it was enormously important that we did so. But is it good for the next 200 years of the world that the ability to do so has been unleashed?"

Buffett, who has on multiple occasions said nuclear war is his biggest fear and that the thought of it keeps him up at night, pushed the comparison between AI and nuclear weapons by paraphrasing a quote Albert Einstein said after splitting the atom. Einstein said, "The unleashed power of the atom has changed everything save our modes of thinking and we thus drift toward unparalleled catastrophe."

Buffett's version went, "With AI, it can change everything in the world, except how men think and behave, and that's a big step to take."

While the use of AI to generate images and other content is proving controversial, as we saw with System Shock and Amnesty International, some say it could bring much bigger problems. Geoffrey Hinton, known as the Godfather of AI, left Google last week with a warning that as companies take advantage of more powerful AI, the systems are becoming increasingly dangerous.

While they certainly aren't alone in their concerns about artificial intelligence, Buffett and Munger aren't the biggest fans of technology in general. Both have talked about their dislike of crypto in the past; Munger compared it to a venereal disease, while Buffett said he wouldn't pay $25 for all the Bitcoin in the world.
Why it matters: OpenAI is a relatively small company with less than 400 full-time employees, but its ambitions are to advance cutting-edge artificial intelligence research and build AI tools that rival those of tech giants like Google, Facebook, and others. To that end, the startup that created the tech underpinning ChatGPT uses over a thousand contract workers that are paid $15 per hour with no benefits to improve the accuracy and thus usefulness of the popular chatbot.

By now even the most casual followers of tech news have heard of ChatGPT. It's the result of a collaboration between Microsoft and OpenAI and fuel for a lot of enthusiasm as well as concerns about the potential negative impact it may have on millions of full-time jobs. You can also think of it as one of the fastest-growing app to date, with well over 100 million monthly users that are poking and prodding it to see what it can generate from various text prompts.

As you'd expect, training the large language model behind ChatGPT as well as running the popular service is no easy task. The two companies use tens of thousands of Nvidia A100 and H100 GPUs that cost between $10,000 and $40,000 per unit, as well as advanced power delivery, networking, and cooling equipment. OpenAI also employs hundreds of researchers and engineers that use what is essentially a supercomputer in developing increasingly sophisticated AI models such as GPT-4.

In other words, chatbots powered by AI are an expensive exercise. In the case of ChatGPT, just keeping the hardware infrastructure behind it running requires as much as $700,000 per day. And according to two OpenAI contractors interviewed by NBC News, improving the accuracy and appeal of ChatGPT is possible thanks to a hidden army of workers that help in teaching it how to analyze user input and respond to various requests.

To get an idea of the kind of work they are doing, we'll use a little-known fact about Google's reCAPTCHA service. Some websites use so-called CAPTCHA tests to determine whether or not you are a robot before they load the actual content of the page you wanted to visit. In the case of reCAPTCHA, this test requires that you correctly recognize text or objects from an image or a series of images. At the same time, you are helping Google in the training of specialized AI models.

The work contractors do to improve ChatGPT is more complex, but similarly crucial to the chatbot's continued success. One such worker is Alexej Savreux, a 34-year-old living in Kansas City, who believes "you can design all the neural networks you want, you can get all the researchers involved you want, but without labelers, you have no ChatGPT. You have nothing."

Also read: Could artificial intelligence be about to take over your job?

OpenAI has hired over 1,000 remote contractors from the US, Latin America and Eastern Europe to do the grueling work required to improve the output of tools like ChatGPT. For Savreux, the main appeal is the "$15 per hour and up' he earns from doing it that helped him out of homelessness. For Jatin Kumar, a Texan college graduate with a degree in computer science, it feels like a great opportunity to see generative AIs evolve and personally contribute to making them more useful.

For a technology that is supposedly threatening many jobs, AI tools require a large workforce to ensure accuracy and trust through a human feedback loop, something Google has failed to do with Bard. And while some companies are looking at ways to replace some of their employees with generative AIs, there are many more that are wary of potential data leaks, over reliance on chatbots for mission-critical projects, and the difficulty of squeezing useful results out of such tools for time-sensitive work.

In related news, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says the remote work "experiment" is over as the technology we have is not yet good enough to make it practical for tech companies, no matter how big or small. This controversial view is shared by several executives in the tech industry, though recent studies suggest people working office jobs prefer remote or hybrid arrangements for a variety of reasons.

Masthead credit: Rolf van Root
Why it matters: One of the most significant drawbacks of electric vehicles is the battery. Currently, EVs are limited by long charging times and the lack of facilities on heavily traveled highways. Florida authorities believe the problem might be partially mitigated by building inductive chargers beneath the state's highways.

The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) has awarded Norwegian startup ENRX a $13.3 million contract to build a test strip for its induction charging system on a one-mile stretch of State Route 516 near Orlando. The company claims its "dynamic wireless charging" technology can accommodate passenger vehicles, heavy-duty commercial trucks, and medium-duty delivery vans.

The system uses a proprietary receiver pad installed on the bottom of any EV that connects to the battery. Coils embedded in the road can deliver up to 200kW to the vehicle's battery, even at freeway speeds.

"When you can charge while driving, range anxiety and frequent charging stops will be a thing of the past," said ENRX CEO Bjrn Eldar Petersen in a press release. "Our unparalleled expertise in induction technology allows us to deliver charging at 200kW even at high speeds. No one else has the technology to offer anything similar."

Similar technologies have existed for a few years but deliver less than 100kW. Likewise, stationary wireless fast-charging tech only provides up to 150kW. If ENRX's claims are valid, its roadways should charge batteries faster than most other inductive tech.

The company didn't reveal too many specifics but did mention that its system is flexible enough to apply to virtually any EV currently manufactured. Individual receiver units have built-in settings to adjust power output for different vehicles and battery types. Users or installers can also manually define the ground-vehicle distance for optimum charging efficiency.

The infrastructure is supposedly weather-proof and maintenance-free once installed. Presumably, ENRX means the coils are maintenance-free because we have yet to see any technology that can create a maintenance-free highway.

In addition to the one-mile stretch in Florida, CFX included funding for an 80-meter test track for the Aspire Engineering Research Center at Utah State University. The shorter test track will allow SAE International (formerly the Society of Automotive Engineers) to test various aspects of the charging system to create global standards for future implementation.

State Route 516 is not the first US motorway to test the viability of wireless charging while driving. Last year, Israeli developer Electreon revealed plans to construct a similar charging method on a one-mile unnamed stretch of road near Detroit, Michigan. That project is slated to begin testing sometime this year.

Image credit: Studio Roosegaarde
The government of Australia signed a $46 million contract in an effort to enhance its disposal robots. Australia and L3Harris Micreo's deal aims to develop new bomb disposal robots that will see up to 80 new explosive ordinance robots, made for defense personnel of the country.

(Photo : JENS-ULRICH KOCH/AFP via Getty Images)

A remote controlled robot for bomb disposal stands on a platform of the train station in Chemnitz, eastern Germany, on October 8, 2016. Two persons were arrested at the train station in connection with the case of a Syrian suspected of planning a bomb attack.

Developing New Bomb Disposal Robots

Australian Department of Defence has signed a contract with L3Harris Micreo to see up to 80 new explosive ordnance disposal robots for Australia's defense personnel, including sailors, soldiers, and aviators. According to Interesting Engineering, the contract costs AU$ 46 million (US$ 30 million).

This will be equipped with cameras and sensors to help the machine determine, examine, and find explosive devices and hazards. Once the robots have been finished developing, the new technology will replace the current in-service robots and will operate in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to ensure the safety of the Australian military personnel while disarming bombs.

During a visit to Cairns, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy announced the partnership and noted the details regarding the government's newest deal with L3Harris Micreo. He stated this effort comes as the government reshapes and modernizes the Defence Force as a preparation for the strategic circumstances that they are facing.

"As the Defence Strategic Review makes clear, we need to improve the Defence Force's ability to operate from Australia's northern bases, which includes Cairns. This is an example of building our local industry and workforce on innovative technologies," he added. The robots will be made in Queensland, Australia.

Strengthening Australia's Bases

ADM reported that the Australian government has been investing $3.8 billion for the last four years. This is an effort of the government to strengthen the country's northern bases as a response to the Defence Strategic Review, including upgrades, developments of critical bases, and estate investments.

As per Queensland Senator Nita Green, Far North Queensland is the gateway to the Pacific, and she sees great for the government to be committed to improving its defense capabilities as the Australian Defence Force moves forward with technology.

She said that she is pleased to have Minister Conroy in Cairns as he tours their shipyards and highlighted the government's recent investment in the Cairns Marine Precinct. "It's an exciting time for the future of our region and I couldn't be prouder to be part of the government delivering it," the senator added.

Also Read: Australia to Purchase up to 5 US Virginia Class Nuclear-powered Submarines

Last August, L3Harris was chosen by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for its Armerd Overwatch Program. The Sky Warden-System combined AT-802U with Air Tractor and delivered 75 manned aircraft at an initial total of $170 million. This highlighted several performance metrics and design concepts that underpin their aircraft.

Although the contract's initial state maintains $170 million, the Armed Overwatch program contract has a cost ceiling of $3 billion to be scooped in the long run if the government sees the need to increase its costs.

Related Article: Australia's Defense Department To Remove Chinese-made Surveillance Cameras

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A new Google device has been leaked online, and this one is not a release from the internet company, focusing on new hardware that would add a new mobile device to its Pixel lineup. Google's Pixel Tablet may be coming this year, and the leak from Amazon Japan has listed the device early, as the I/O 2023 event is right around the corner coming this week.

Google Pixel Tablet appeared on Amazon Japan, Ahead of I/O 2023

In an unexpected turn of events, a leak on Amazon Japan has unveiled the existence of a new Google Pixel Tablet. The listing on Amazon Japan is now removed by its original seller.

While Google has yet to make any official announcements regarding the Pixel Tablet, this leak has sparked excitement among tech enthusiasts and fans of the Google Pixel lineup. The timing is particularly intriguing as it comes just before Google's highly anticipated I/O 2023 event scheduled for May 10.

(Photo : Amazon Japan via Wayback Machine)

The leak, discovered on Amazon Japan by WinFuture, provides valuable information about the upcoming device.

Users may rediscover the listing via Wayback Machine's web crawling features to learn more about the Pixel Tablet.

Read Also: Apple, Google Join Forces to Prevent Bluetooth Location-tracking Abuse

Pixel Tablet is Coming, What to Expect of the New Device?

This leak follows Google's recent official unveiling of the Pixel Fold device, further fueling speculation about Google's plans to expand its product portfolio.

According to the Amazon Japan listing, the Pixel Tablet, set to release on June 20, will retail for approximately $590 (listed at 80,000 Japanese yen).

It will feature a spacious 10.95-inch LCD with a sharp 2560x1600 resolution. Additional details include a rumored CPU spec to be powered by Google's Tensor G2 chipset, a successor to the powerful Tensor SoC introduced with the Pixel series, also featuring as much as 8 GB RAM.

The Pixel Tablet is available between two storage options, 128 GB or 256 GB, but is unknown if it will feature expandable storage. Lastly, it will feature 8 MP for both its front and rear cam, as well as 12 hours of battery life for the device.

Google's Pixel Devices and its Expansion

As with any leak, it's important to approach this information with a degree of caution until Google makes an official announcement. However, the Pixel Tablet's leak on Amazon Japan has undoubtedly generated excitement and anticipation among tech enthusiasts.

Other Pixel developments are coming this May 10, with the promise of Google's updated devices for all. Many are also saying that the Pixel 8 will also be unveiled in this event, for a future release later this year.

Not to mention the previously confirmed Pixel Fold, Google's first foldable device.

All eyes will be on Google's I/O 2023 event on May 10, where enthusiasts hope to receive confirmation and additional details about the Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, and more. Until then, fans can speculate about the tablet's features and eagerly await Google's official announcement.

Related Article: Google's Pixel Fold is Here, Officially Announces the Device-Here's What to Know

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Former Deputy Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan Rafig Bayramov has been pardoned following the order signed by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to pardon a number of convicted persons on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, Trend reports.

Previously, Bayramov was sentenced to eight years of imprisonment.

Totally, 801 convicts have been pardoned in Azerbaijan, and 463 people have been released from imprisonment following the presidential order.
AMFG, established in 2014, has evolved from helping smaller businesses optimize their time and reduce costs to becoming a trusted partner for businesses seeking digital transformation. The company pioneered autonomy for Additive Manufacturing and now empowers global enterprises to achieve unprecedented innovation in both additive and wider manufacturing processes.

With an award-winning MES featuring machine connectivity and cutting-edge software integrations, AMFG streamlines processes across organizations and supply chains, serving clients in over 30 countries, including small machine shops and Fortune 500 giants.

Keyvan Karimi, the founder of AMFG, has an in-depth knowledge of the manufacturing industry as a result of his background in technology management. Combining this knowledge with his fascination for the rapidly-expanding 3D printing industry, he has led the company from strength to strength.

Today, Karimi zooms out on the industry and shares his insights about the future of autonomous processes in manufacturing and the industry as a whole, as AMFG continues to accelerate the adoption of automation and propel the industry into a new era of efficiency and sustainability.

Tell us about your background. What got you interested in manufacturing and 3D printing?

I come from a humble background. My parents - who had immigrated from Iran - highly valued education and enshrined an ethos in me that success is the product of hard work. You either seize the opportunity or let it pass.

From a young age, I looked up to the engineering profession and have always had an obsession with efficiency. After gaining my degree in Industrial Engineering from the South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, I was already familiar with the manufacturing space, spending the early part of my career working at companies as diverse as Lloyds Bank and Marks & Spencer, primarily in technology management roles.

From there, I started to become excited about the applications of 3D printing, also known as Additive Manufacturing (AM) - so-called because the process "adds" to the material, rather than subtracting from it, as in carving a block of wood or cutting stencils into sheet metal.

The ability to rapidly prototype and the unique material properties of AM-produced parts were signs to me that the technology would be a pivotal one for manufacturing as a whole, and I founded AMFG to bring a comprehensive software solution to this young but as-yet unchoreographed manufacturing method.

At AMFG, we strive for efficiency in every aspect of our work. We scrutinize every operational step and ask ourselves if there's a better way to do things. Operational efficiency is not just a principle we follow - it's ingrained into our DNA.

Give a background of the timeline of 3D printing technology for those of us who aren't familiar.

The history of 3D printing goes back further than people think. The earliest crude additive prototyping machine was working back in the early 80s, with some of the fundamental principles carrying over into today. New techniques were developed into the 90s, but it wasn't until the 2000s that the technology really took off, including the first commercially available printers.

By the early 2010s, "3D printing" was a household name, and the hype train reached its peak in 2014/5, with everybody talking about the technology - meanwhile, floods of investment money poured into the space.

This was the hype that didn't always reflect the fundamentals or the present-day possibilities of the technology, but we're once again seeing fantastic use cases of the technology in commercial markets, and it's this scaling up of the process that I've made it my mission to contribute toward. In some sectors, the advent of additive manufacturing is a game changer.

The technology is now maturing and is increasingly used by even the largest manufacturers, owing to 3D printing's wealth of applications for the space.

So what's the current state of the technology, and what role does AMFG play?

We're seeing significant innovation in 3D printing hardware and materials science, which is driving down the cost and increasing the accessibility of the technology. 3D printing is now being used in wider production setups alongside conventional techniques such as CNC and injection molding.

However, I believe that 3D printing is just another technology that fits into the portfolio of manufacturing businesses. What we identified as a major gap in the market was in the software space - hardware, materials, and resources were disconnected, which we identified as a blocker for 3D printing to materialize in earnest.

This is where AMFG plays a role, with our singular vision to catalyze the industry's takeoff and help businesses scale.

So, fundamentally, we are a software company. We provide MES (Manufacturing Execution System) software, which helps connect all of the disparate parts of the manufacturing process into one streamlined workflow. We are obsessed with transforming the space into a fully autonomous process.

Though our beginnings were humble, and we continue to provide support to a wide customer base of SMB innovators across EMEA and North America in particular, we have grown to be the trusted partner for blue chip companies too - household names like HP, L'Oreal, Ricoh, trust us to streamline their manufacturing processes.

Though we remain the global leader in 3D printing workflow software, we also allow the integration of CNC, injection molding, and sheet metal fabrication into the workflow, meaning AMFG is a one-stop solution for the entire workshop, whether a small two-person operation in the American Midwest or a multinational enterprise.

What direction is the manufacturing industry as a whole heading in? What role does the United States play in this future?

With or without AMFG's intervention, the manufacturing industry is inevitably hurtling toward full automation. Currently, almost all processes and factories require costly human intervention from specialist technicians on-hand to oversee the processes from end to end.

The future, however, is in "lights-out" manufacturing because the process is so entirely automated that the factory can operate with no human intervention whatsoever. We see rapid innovation in the way of self-driving cars, for instance, so it only makes sense that the factories producing such cars should operate in a similarly autonomous manner.

But all of these innovations and changes don't exist only in the manufacturing space in a vacuum. Manufacturing is just one part of a broader societal change, and nowhere can we feel these wheels in motion more than here in the United States.

With each industrial revolution, different forms of industrialization and automation reshape the landscape of work. This next phase is referred to as Industry 4.0, with the previous three epochs being the Industrial, Technological, and Digital Revolutions. Each has changed the landscape of the space in significant and irreversible ways.

First, we have the question of labor. Trends show that there is an aging population among shopfloor technicians and, as such, a skills shortage in the field. This means it's becoming more and more expensive and difficult to train and retain these workers, and businesses looking to improve their bottom line are turning to autonomous processes to solve the issue.

There is understandable pushback on the prospect of replacing blue-collar workers with machines, but this isn't the bad news it sounds like for the American economy. With the Autonomous Revolution comes a great opportunity to re-onshore manufacturing - in other words, thanks to the kinds of solutions AMFG is at the forefront of implementing, we have the ability to bring manufacturing processes back to American shores.

The largest argument for offshoring is the reduction in labor costs across markets in the PRC and other BRIC countries. When this is no longer a competitive factor, manufacturers will inevitably start making decisions to base all operations locally, providing a much-needed boom for American industry.

Aside from the economic advantages, changing political tides suggest that countries like the United States would do best to increase their self-reliance, and the removal of costly and protracted shipping operations means speedier turnaround times, not to mention the environmental savings of having parts produced for the country, in the country.

AMFG's MES today brings benefits that enable businesses to get ahead of this curve, and we already work with numerous proudly "Made in USA" enterprises.

With features such as the Digital Inventory functionality, businesses can eliminate the need for increasingly expensive warehouse floorspace: instead of stacking numerous parts in a factory, gathering dust, the principle of a Digital Warehouse is that these parts are instead stored as digital files on a drive, using smart demand-predicting algorithms and machine learning to optimize for physical space as much as possible and only produce what is needed.

This represents a further time, cost, and space-saving benefit to this exciting new future, and as a company, we are privileged to play such a pivotal role in this development.

How do you see AMFG contributing to the changing manufacturing landscape, given the shift in consumer behavior and industry trends?

It's clear that there are very specific trends emerging in manufacturing, with production set to return in a very different shape from before. As consumer behavior demands ever more individualized products, the manufacturing industry will need to respond with faster lead times and greater variety.

Across industries, from textiles to automotive, the lifecycle of products is getting ever shorter, and so these trends demand a new way of thinking about products and manufacturing.

We can expect to see an intense level of micro-manufacturing activities taking place very close to consumers as production comes back into populated areas in the US. This new model will be highly - or wholly - automated, and it will allow for the production of products that meet our individual needs much faster and in a more sustainable way.

The future will happen with or without AMFG, but we believe that we can play a crucial role in helping to accelerate this transformation. By leveraging cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and innovative software solutions, we can help businesses to streamline their operations and produce products more sustainably and efficiently than ever before.

If we can help to usher in this future sooner, then we will have accomplished our mission.

Connect with Keyvan on LinkedIn.

To learn more about AMFG's award-winning comprehensive MES solution, visit AMFG or schedule a demo.

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Google Weather app is getting a much-deserved redesign, and this was revealed earlier with a screenshot that tells a lot about what to expect from its next iteration to the public. One of the most iconic changes for Google Weather is the new Material You theme that it adopted, which soon will be what users would see whenever they look into the forecasts for their day or coming days.

Its Material You redesign is something that Google's Weather app is coming to, as other features or apps by Google are also getting this treatment, all having the same looks that feature the new theme.

(Photo : Neil Sargeant via Twitter)

Google Weather is Getting the Material You Treatment with its Redesign

Google Weather, the go-to app for millions of users seeking reliable and accurate weather information, has received a significant redesign inspired by Material You. According to 9to5 Google, the screenshot of the new home screen came from a Googler via Twitter, with the new update bringing a fresh and cohesive look to the Weather app, offering a streamlined user experience and improved functionality.

One of the prominent changes in the Material You redesign is the introduction of a single main feed within the app. Previously, users had to navigate through different tabs to access various weather-related information.

With the latest update, all essential weather details are consolidated into a single view, providing a more intuitive and efficient user experience.

Read Also: Fun Fact: Here's Why Google Pixel Wallpapers are Bird Feathers

What to Expect from Google Weather's Material You Redesign

To align with the aesthetic of Material You, Google Weather now fully supports the dark theme. A screenshot from Neil Sargeant shows the only page for the app that shows everything in one landing.

In terms of the user interface, the redesigned Google Weather features a new pill-shaped search bar dedicated to weather-related queries. The top of the page will feature the "Now" forecast based on their location and time, also offering other information such as weather conditions, high and low temperatures for the day, as well as the "Feels like" condition.

Users can effortlessly swipe through the hourly weather to get a detailed overview of temperature changes throughout the day. Similarly, the 10-day forecast offers a comprehensive view of the weather patterns in the coming days, helping users plan.

Google's Material You Theme on Apps and MORE

The famed Material You is an iconic design from Google that applies to its many apps, one that unifies the experience of what the Mountain View giant has to offer.

From different apps like YouTube, Google's Office Suite, UI, and more, the Material You is something users may see as they launch the updated features from the company.

Google's Material You redesign for the Weather app showcases the company's commitment to providing an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly experience. By streamlining the user interface, introducing the dark theme, and enhancing the search functionality, Google has made accessing weather information simpler and more enjoyable for users worldwide.

Related Article: Google Pixel Tablet Appears on Amazon Japan ahead of I/O 2023 Event, Like the Pixel Fold?

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A new case leak for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 is suggesting the device's redesign from the company, and this focuses on a larger outer screen for when the device is folded in half. One of the most iconic things in this leak is that the new Z Flip's redesign will utilize more of the smartphone's outer panel to bring more information to the user instead of the previous design.

This new leak brings a detailed look into what to expect from the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, and it will deliver a significant change compared to the 2022-released Galaxy Z Flip 4, its predecessor.

(Photo : Ice Universe via Twitter)

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Leaks: New Phone Cases Reveal Redesign

Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip series has gained immense popularity for its unique foldable design, and the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 5 is set to take this innovation to new heights. Recent leaks have shed light on the revamp of the Flip smartphone, revealing exciting new features and design changes that are sure to captivate tech enthusiasts.

One of the standout upgrades in the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is the larger outer screen, as shared by Ice Universe via Twitter. Leaked images showcase a screen that has been expanded to accommodate more content, offering users a more immersive experience for the outer screen that boasts the iconic "Folder" icon shape that will fill the device's outside display.

Read Also: Samsung Bans Usage of AI Tools After Employees Leaked Confidential Data to ChatGPT

Exclusive

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 protective case has leaked, confirming its unique "folder screen" design. pic.twitter.com/8x7s0gdDJP  Ice universe (@UniverseIce) May 5, 2023

What to Expect from the New Galaxy Z Flip 5?

The latest information indicates that the Galaxy Z Flip 5 will retain the fingerprint sensor power key, ensuring seamless and secure authentication.

The leaked images also confirm the presence of familiar features that have become synonymous with the Galaxy Z Flip series. The USB-C charging port remains intact, enabling fast and efficient charging.

The volume buttons are positioned on the opposite side of the device, ensuring easy access while in use or during calls.

Samsung's Foldable Smartphones

One of the biggest leaks for Samsung's foldable devices is for the Z Flip 5, and it has been rumored before that it will feature a larger cover display compared to its four previous releases.

This indicates the plans of the company, now evidenced by new phone cases that further solidify the new design scheme that the South Korean giant will apply for its tech.

Still, the Motorola Razr series, its rival, will be the earlier one to launch compared to the Galaxy Z Flip 5.

As with any leaks, it is important to approach the information with caution until Samsung makes an official announcement. However, if the leaked details are accurate, the Galaxy Z Flip 5 is poised to be a game-changer for its series.

Samsung continues to push the boundaries of innovation, delivering devices that not only captivate with their cutting-edge technology but also provide practical benefits to users.

The Galaxy Z Flip 5's revamp promises to offer an improved user experience with its larger outer screen, enhanced touchscreen capabilities and retained key features.

Related Article: Samsung's 4nm Chip Development is Inching Closer, First Application to be Google's Tensor G3

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The V-22 Osprey is a remarkable example of engineering ingenuity, and the story of its long, arduous development is an inspiring one. After nearly two decades of testing, manufacturing, and service, the Osprey has proven one of the most successful and reliable aircraft in military history.

The Obstacle-Riddled Journey to Developing the MV-22 Osprey Aircraft

According to the story by Interesting Engineering, the incredible story began in the 1980s with the Joint Services Advanced Vertical Lift Aircraft project. This ambitious project aimed to build an aircraft that maintained the speed and altitude of a fixed-wing airplane with the added flexibility of vertical takeoff and landing.

Engineers spent nearly two decades on the project and encountered significant setbacks, including several deadly crashes. However, the team persevered and eventually succeeded in creating the MV-22 in 1999.

The Marines were the first to get their hands on their first Ospreys, and they were followed by the Air Force in 2006 and the Navy in 2020. Over 400 Ospreys are in service worldwide and have flown an estimated 600,000 flight hours.

The Osprey's Role in Military Operations Around the World

Although the military is done investing in more new Ospreys, they are far from finished. The Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force still have plans to fly them for years. According to Business Insider, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Brown Jr. gave a statement regarding the expensiveness of additional CV-22s.

Since being declared fully operational, the V-22 Osprey has become an incredibly valuable asset for U.S. military operations and has been used in several theaters, from the Middle East to Latin America and the Pacific.

The Osprey has been used in the Middle East for personnel transport, resupply missions, and even high-profile hostage rescues. It has been used in Latin America for reconnaissance and drug interdiction operations.

The Versatility of the V-22 Osprey: A Unique Platform for New Capabilities

The Osprey has even been used for humanitarian missions ranging from evacuating US citizens from war zones or areas affected by natural disasters to delivering food and medical supplies. A post by Boeing details more about the V-22 Ospreys.

But it is also a versatile platform for new capabilities, says Matthew Wilkerson, a retired Marine Corps officer with expertise in Osprey operations and employment. The Osprey allows the U.S. military to land in remote areas quickly and quietly and holds promise for the use of advanced unmanned aerial systems, he adds.

Read Also: Australia Signs $46 Million Contract to Develop New Bomb Disposal Robots

A Valuable and Enduring Asset: The Osprey in U.S. Military Service

The Osprey also has considerable power and it is likely that the Osprey will remain a critical component of U.S. military power for years to come. The aircraft has already proven itself a valuable asset, providing the U.S. military with much-needed flexibility and becoming indispensable in many missions.

While there will no longer be any more new Ospreys built, the ones that remain in service will continue to prove their worth in missions in the combat zone and humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Related Article: Japan to Boost GPS-Style Satellite System to 11, Improving Location Accuracy Nationwide

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
DefensX, developer of a Zero Trust Secure Web Browser extension and solutions today announced it has received investment from the Development METU Technopark Venture Capital Investment Fund (Invest101), established in cooperation with the Turkiye Development Fund (TDF) and METU Technopark.

Invest101 supports new generation, early-stage technology startups, to scale up innovative solutions across artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data, cybersecurity, fintech, gaming technologies, software development technologies, internet of things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), cloud technologies, advanced material, robotics, nanotechnology, biotechnology, renewable energy, and mobility.

Unfortunately, apart from human error attacks, cybercrime as a whole experienced monumental growth, much to the dismay of enterprises across all sectors. On average today, theres a cyberattack every 39 seconds, yet, in the U.S alone, only 10 percent of cybercrime gets reported. Furthermore, the total cost of global cybercrime is expected to reach $8 trillion by the end of 2023, with companies losing, on average, around $200,000 a year on cyber crime. This can be a fatal blow for many SMBs.

We are pleased to welcome Osman and the DefensX team to our Invest101 family, said Elif Altug, Ph.D, CFA, CEO and Board Member of Turkiye Development Fund. The company has already proven the enormous value of technology in our country, our region, and globally, and we look forward to their expansion in such a mission critical area. Without the ability to defend against growing threats, digital and structural transformation is limited. DefensX addresses risks in a modern way which is accessible, affordable, and sustainable.

DefensXs Zero Trust Secure Web Browser delivers a number of capabilities to help businesses combat a growing number of cyber threats. These include: Zero Trust Web Protection, Zero Trust Credentials, Zero Trust File Protection, Remote Browser Isolation, DNS++, and a cloud-first architecture that has been adopted by major distribution channels around the world. With its solutions, DefensX looks to continue to scale as the challenges they have been solving for continue to mount.

Today, cybersecurity has become a priority for organizations in nearly all industries, as while the beginning of the technological age has brought an unprecedented number of benefits and advantages to the business world, it has also opened up the door for a resurgence in cybercrime. Innovative devices and applications, such as automation, machine learning, internet of things (IoT) and the edge, have given cybercriminals a plethora of new tools to leverage, allowing their attacks to be faster, smarter, and in more volume than ever before.

Along with new tools, the explosion of technology has also greatly increased the amount of endpoints available for hackers to use when attempting to breach servers. Amidst the rapid rise of remote work/WFH, users and endpoints have become the main attack vectors being exploited by cyber criminals. For instance, of the 94 percent of organizations that have experienced insider data breaches in the last year, human error was the top cause of serious incidents, according to 84 percent of IT leaders surveyed.

We are deeply honored to have been chosen by the Invest101 team, given their shared focus on creating strong regional and global companies engaged in strategic industries, said Osman Erkan, Co-Founder and CEO of DefensX. We look forward to becoming a strong contributor to their network of investors and entrepreneurs who are committed, as we are, to developing and expanding meaningful and sustainable solutions, especially in the cybersecurity arena as threats continue to accelerate.

Last month, DefensX announced it had closed a financing round by Revo Capital , a venture capital fund investing in truly innovative, seed & early-stage B2B or B2C technology ventures. The investment of Invest 101 was realized as an extention of the above-mentioned round.

As demand for DefensX solutions continues to grow in North America, Western and Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific and Europe Middle East and Africa, Invest 101 and Revos investments will accelerate further expansion and software-as-a-service development.

Edited by Erik Linask
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The matter of including Azerbaijan's Khinalyq village (in Guba district) into the UNESCO World Heritage List will be considered in September of this year, Deputy Chairman of the State Agency for Tourism Azada Huseynova told Trend.

She said considerable work has been carried out on this, and the nomination has already been submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Currently, the evaluation stage is in progress. Huseynova added that the peculiarity of the nomination document is that it was the first time local experts prepared it.

Khinalyq is an ancient village going back to the Caucasian Albania period. It is located high up in the mountains of Quba District of Azerbaijan.

In 2006, Azerbaijan announced plans to modernize the educational buildings, infrastructure, governmental buildings and other resources of Khinalyq. In 2007, Khinalyq State historical-architectural and ethnographic reserve was established, to preserve the unique appearance, language and customs of the village.

The inhabitants of Khinalyq have preserved their traditional way of life. The people of Khinalyq are related to the Northeast Caucasian ethnic group.

Khinalyq is surrounded by caves, pirs ('a holy place' or a 'shrine' in Azerbaijani), temples and ateshgahs (Zoroastrian praying places' in Azerbaijani).

Azerbaijan has a number of properties inscribed on the World Heritage List of UNESCO. In April 2023, Azerbaijan said it submitted its proposal (on the country's Hirkan Forests) for the UNESCO World Heritage Committee's transnational nomination at the end of 2022.

Meanwhile, it should also be noted that as a result of the Karabakh war and Armenia's occupation of Azerbaijani lands, a lot of Azerbaijan's cultural heritage suffered enormous damage.
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The decree on pardoning a number of convicted persons on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev is scheduled to be executed by May 10, Trend reports.

Remembering the exceptional merits of Heydar Aliyev in the implementation of fundamental reforms aimed at building a democratic rule of law, and that he attached special importance to the protection of human rights and freedom, continuing the traditions of humanism, mercy, and humanity, believing that persons released from punishment will contribute to the welfare of the state and development the society, having considered appeals addressed to the President of Azerbaijan for the pardon of a number of convicted persons, their family members, the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the "On pardoning a number of convicted persons on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev order on May 8, 2023.

According to the Decree, as many as 801 convicts were pardoned, of which 463 people were released from imprisonment, 220 people from half of the unserved part of the punishment in the form of imprisonment, 118 people from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, correctional labor, punishment in the form of a fine and persons sentenced to suspended sentence).

A total of 14 of the pardoned convicts are foreigners, 12 of them are being fully released from punishment, and two are from half of the sentence. Four convicted foreigners are subject to forced expulsion from the country after being released from punishment by the relevant sentence. Since other citizens of foreign countries are Azerbaijanis by nationality or their family members are citizens of Azerbaijan, forced expulsion will not be applied to them.

As many as 10 convicts were released from punishment on the basis of appeals from human rights organizations. Among them are journalist Elchin Mamed, Chairman of the Citizens and Development Party Ali Aliyev, as well as five people who were convicted in connection with the terrorist events, and 3 people in connection with the events in Ganja in 2018. It was decided to pardon these persons, taking into account their behavior during the term of serving their sentence, marital status, and health condition.

A total of 14 meetings of the Pardon Commission under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan have been held, at which about 2,400 documents were discussed, since January of this year.

This decree is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies in comparison with the pardon order of May 24 2018, adopted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, applied to 634 convicts.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Some 10 Nepalese citizens who tried to violate the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan on May 6, at 21:59 (GMT+4) in the direction of Georgia were detained in the service territory of the Shamkir border detachment of the border troops of the State Border Service (SBS) of Azerbaijan, the SBS told Trend.

Azerbaijani citizens Khalid Nadirli and Tural Aghayev, who were the guides of the Nepalese, were detained as well.

Back in April 2023, the State Border Service of Azerbaijan detained 41 people for violating the state border, 22 of whom were citizens of Azerbaijan, 10 citizens of Nepal, one citizen from Iran and another from Pakistan, as well as two - from Tajikistan, and five - from Sri Lanka.

Some 20 people were detained while trying to cross the state border with fake passports, visas and stamps, one person was detained while trying to cross the state border bypassing the checkpoint.

Moreover, 691 people were detained for violating the rules of the border regime, and appropriate measures were taken against them.
A home on St. Charles avenue is lit for the filming of a movie in New Orleans, Friday, March 17, 2017. In the beginning of April, State legislatures will look at the possible future of film tax credits with the LouisianaOs tax structure reforms.
In an effort to meet new people in a new space, Nancy Sherman started to take classes at the University of New Orleans. After one adviser suggested she pursue a degree, she is now set to graduate with honors May 19 with a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies.
Critical minerals miner Lynas Rare Earths has gained a six-month reprieve to continue operating its billion-dollar processing plant in Malaysia, giving it a crucial lifeline while it races to commission another processing facility in Australia.

The miner said its licence to import and process lanthanide concentrate  various elements that together are known as rare-earth metals  at its Malaysian plant, which was set to expire at the beginning of July, has been extended and allowed its cracking and leaching operation to continue until January next year.

Lynas Kalgoorlie processing plant is in the final throes of major construction. Credit:

Investors welcomed the news, sending Lynas shares up 12 per cent to $7.37.

Lynas is racing to build and commission alternative production facilities in the West Australian gold mining town of Kalgoorlie after Malaysian authorities tightened restrictions on its licence.
Its difficult moving on from the coronation of King Charles III without wondering what might have been. If Queen Elizabeth had not endured an annus horribilis in 1992 and Charles and Diana had remained married, what would Queen Diana have looked like on the throne?

Queen Camilla has gently acquired the gravitas enabling her to carry off British designer Bruce Oldfields wide-shouldered ivory silk coronation gown but despite evolving from a scruffy, country lady of the manor, straight from a Jilly Cooper novel, her fashion impact pales beside Dianas lasting legacy.

Princess Diana was very confident in her personal style, even though I dont think she was a self-confident person, says Australian fashion designer Jayson Brunsdon. She certainly knew how to send a message with fashion. Look at the famous black revenge dress. Diana would have known how to send a message at the coronation.

Brunsdon met Diana in Sydney following her divorce from Prince Charles, when she opened the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute in 1996. During their styling session Diana refused to wear Chanel shoes because of the interlocking Cs, which could represent Charles and Camilla.
When Bain was facing a doubling in costs to keep his hostel bed ahead of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, he shared a Facebook post in desperation in a renting group: This is criminal. This crisis is awful, Im going to fall apart if something doesnt come along soon. The post was widely shared and he landed a spot in a Glen Waverley five-person share house for $450 a month. It was a stroke of luck, he said, having met others who were in the same position at the backpackers. Matthew Bain says finding his share-house was a stroke of luck. Credit: Penny Stephens I could have easily been stuck looking for God knows how long, he said. It baffled me. I ended up feeling a little bit forgotten as someone who moved abroad to work here.

I would never slate hostels for what they are. Its just a shame that the reality of the situation is that people need to end up staying there long term. Sofie Basile, who owns hairdresser Unico Hair in Fitzroy, has had two employees this year with no choice but to live in youth hostels. You are new here, you are far from your country, and you cannot find a place to live. Its terrible. Arda Ildiz, 25, IT student from Turkey She said the situation meant some overseas arrivals  who tend to fill important staffing gaps in hospitality and other sectors of the service industry  were leaving Melbourne sooner than they planned. One young Italian hairdresser cut short her time in Melbourne after spending two months paying $365 per week to sleep in an eight-person dorm room in Brunswick. Its going to affect a lot of businesses because you wont be able to keep people long term even if they want to stay, Basile said.

Arda Ildiz, a 25-year-old IT student from Turkey, said living in youth hostels had been the worst experience of my life. He has since secured an Alphington share-house for a fraction of the cost. Loading I know too many people who went back to Turkey and other countries because of this problem. It affects you [mentally]  you are new here, you are far from your country, and you cannot find a place to live. Its terrible, Ildiz said. Melbourne City Backpackers manager Jess Porter said while there was always a cohort who chose to stay in hostels long-term, there had absolutely been a rise in people staying three to six months because of the rental shortage. Porter said the hostel was charging two-thirds more than what it was a year ago.

Even with that increase, were seeing people look at their options here, he said. If youve got a backpacker going to an open house with no localised rental references or permanent visa, theyre usually not going to get the property ... which sucks. Its hard for everyone at the moment. Evan Mahony, who owns three Melbourne backpackers, said his dorms were full despite the higher fees, partly driven by people staying long term because share houses were increasingly rare and expensive. Even many of my staff cant get anywhere to live, he said.

Compounding the issue is that there are about 2500 fewer backpacker beds in Melbourne since the pandemic, according to Alex Hill, president of Adventure Tourism Victoria, the peak body for youth hostels. Today, the city has about 3000 in total. We have a lot of people coming into the country and we dont have a lot of rentals at all, so its very tight, Hill said. He said the rental pains were changing the behaviour of international visitors. They might have spent six months in Melbourne but when theyve stayed in a hostel for two months, theyll try a different part of Australia. Some people are leaving the country. Tenants Victoria community engagement director Farah Farouque said young people being forced to lean on youth hostels was a symptom of the intense pressure of Melbournes tight rental vacancy rates. She added that there were fewer share houses since COVID-19.

Loading Its another reflection of parlous state of the rental market. Another concern, Farouque said, was that people resorting to extended stays in youth hostels didnt have the protection of the states rental laws. She said more needed to be done to help renters, including introducing rent caps and regulating Airbnbs to make way for more housing.
Opinion pieces from local writers exploring their suburbs cliches and realities and how it has changed in the past 20 years.

When I tell people Im a teacher at the local public high school in St Albans, their faces crumple in sympathy. You teach all those criminals, they say. Then they usually share some story about the school that theyve heard on the grapevine. My personal favourite was the ludicrous tale of two teachers who had a biffo at the local reserve after school.

You see, St Albans was once called the murder capital of Victoria due to a high rate of homicides for its small population. Its things like this that stick.

St Albans was once called the homicide capital of Victoria.

Were a suburb of newly arrived migrants, with only 39.4 per cent of those living here born in Australia, and the fact that most residents are brunettes and their skin different shades of brown, its easy to lob stereotypes and prejudice.

When I tell people that my favourite part of being a teacher at my local school is my students, they look perplexed. And when I add that this high school is my former high school because I was born and raised in St Albans, well, then they become bewildered.
A West Australian fly-in, fly-out worker accused of raping a colleague at a Pilbara mine site in 2020 after a night of drinking claims the act was consensual despite the victims friends recalling she was comatose.

Ryan Zabaznow, 37, is accused of entering a female colleagues donga at a BHP mine site around 1am after believing the rest of the group they had been drinking with had left.

Ryan Zabaznow, inset, is accused of raping a colleague following a night of drinking at BHPs Mulla Mulla mining camp, at its South Flank iron ore mine in WAs Pilbara. Credit: Facebook/Trevor Collens

During the opening day of Zabaznows trial in the Perth District Court on Monday, state prosecutor Rebekah Sleeth said the group had been transitioning from day to night shift and were attempting to stay awake as late as possible.

There was no limit on the amount of alcohol they could purchase at the time.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. As many as 69 pardoning orders and 12 acts of amnesty have been signed, the Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsman) of Azerbaijan Sabina Aliyeva said, Trend reports.

"The pardon order signed by President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the great leader of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev is the widest in its scope. I express my gratitude in connection with this order as an Ombudsman," she said.

Sabina Aliyeva noted that 864 people have been pardoned so far at the request of the Ombudsman.

"At the current disposal, 59 convicts have been released at the request of the Ombudsman," she said.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on pardoning a number of convicts on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. The pardon order is scheduled to be executed by May 10.

According to the Decree, as many as 801 convicts were pardoned, of which 463 people were released from imprisonment, 220 people from half of the unserved part of the punishment in the form of imprisonment, 118 people from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, correctional labor, punishment in the form of a fine and persons sentenced to suspended sentence).

A total of 14 of the pardoned convicts are foreigners, 12 of them are being fully released from punishment, and two are from half of the sentence. Four convicted foreigners are subject to forced expulsion from the country after being released from punishment by the relevant sentence. Since other citizens of foreign countries are Azerbaijanis by ethnicity or their family members are citizens of Azerbaijan, forced expulsion will not be applied to them.

As many as 10 convicts were released from punishment on the basis of appeals from human rights organizations. Among them are journalist Elchin Mamed, Chairman of the Citizens and Development Party Ali Aliyev, as well as five people who were convicted in connection with the terrorist events, and 3 people in connection with the events in Ganja in 2018. It was decided to pardon these persons, taking into account their behavior during the term of serving their sentence, marital status, and health condition.

A total of 14 meetings of the Pardon Commission under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan have been held, at which about 2,400 documents were discussed, since January of this year.

This decree is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies in comparison with the pardon order of May 24, 2018, adopted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, applied to 634 convicts.

The pardon order is scheduled to be executed by May 10.
Western Australias Corruption and Crime Commission has detailed the serious misconduct of a senior police officer who repeatedly punched and verbally abused an Indigenous man during an arrest.

A report into the incident, tabled in parliament on Monday, followed what the CCC described as an inadequate managerial investigation by WA Police.

Body-worn camera footage shows the officer reaching into the van to repeatedly punch the man. Credit: Corruption and Crime Commission/ WA Police

Sergeant Ratcliffe, a police officer with 20 years experience, was with three other officers when they were sent to Mirrabooka busport in September 2021.

A 43-year-old Indigenous man, referred to as Mr L in the report, was arrested by the officers after assaulting a Public Transport Authority officer.
Independent MP Dai Le and Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone have set up their own political party in a bid to challenge the major parties in federal seats across western Sydney.

The duo have registered the Dai Le and Frank Carbone Network with the Australian Electoral Commission in an effort to replicate Les spectacular success in defeating Labor frontbencher Kristina Keneally in last years federal election.

Fowler MP Dai Le raised concerns about the cost of the governments controversial AUKUS submarine deal. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Le, who was then serving as Fairfields deputy mayor, defeated Keneally in the south-western Sydney electorate of Fowler despite Labor holding the seat on a margin of 17 per cent, making it one of the partys safest seats in the country.

Many Fowler locals rankled at Keneally being parachuted into the area from the Northern Beaches and voted for Le in protest, defying swings towards Labor elsewhere in the country.
As budget time edges ever closer, pundits and markets search for a sign, any sign, of the central promise: will there be a surplus, or will the books topple into the red?

Let us take a bet this year.

The Albanese government will surely announce, triumphantly, that its books are written in black.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reacts as Guardian Australia photographer Mike Bowers phone rings during a Labor party caucus meeting. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Yes. A lovely surplus would calm nerves in a time of inflation, high interest rates and householders despair.
Some residents and the state opposition still question the logic of placing it next to Richmond West Primary School and say it should be moved. I feel like that doesnt even need to be said, its so obvious to me, said one mother, whose son attends the primary school and asked not to be named because of her employment. Residents against the location of the safe injecting room protest on the steps of parliament on Thursday. Credit: Chris Hopkins A security briefing for the Department of Education before the site opened in 2018 identified trespassers, visibility of potentially distressing incidents beyond the school boundary and the security of staff and students at after-hours programs as key issues of concern. The school  where enrolments have recently dipped but which is otherwise popular for its leading Chinese immersion bilingual program  added CCTV, extra lighting and fencing, and ensures it has a staff member greet students at the gate.

Within a week in 2021, a mans body was found near the school and another allegedly entered the grounds with a knife. Neither were clients of the safe injecting room. Proponents argue the facility has to be where drug users are, and that residents were already exposed to injecting and overdoses in the hotspot before it opened. A state coroner recommended the trial go ahead in North Richmond after a spate of heroin-related deaths nearby. It has saved an estimated 63 lives, safely managed more than 6300 overdoses by March this year, and lowered the number of overdoses in the neighbourhood that require an ambulance. Clark acknowledges more could have been done early on to help bring the community onside.

We need to take people on a journey, and I think we havent done that to the extent that we could have done, he says. He was more frank at the Harm Reduction International Conference in Melbourne last month, stating improving neighbourhood amenity was the toughest objective to meet. And yet, we were neither given the resources nor the permission to do this one. That was considered too risky for us to do; to engage with the neighbours, Clark told the conference. When it comes to our interaction with the press, that is extremely closely regulated as part of the contractual agreement with the government.

He believes reluctance to engage with the media means good stories of vulnerable people engaging with healthcare  such as treatment for hepatitis C  and other wraparound services thanks to trusted staff have been left untold. Loading An independent report by John Ryan acknowledged the facility had not overcome broader amenity challenges, noting public injecting remained a problem and the City of Yarra collects up to 18,000 needles a month. Patricia Collocott resigned as chief executive of North Richmond Community Health, which runs the site, weeks after the release of the report. Within months of visiting the North Richmond safe injecting room three years ago, Saade Melki quit heroin.

The 49-year-old was introduced to long-acting buprenorphine, a pharmacotherapy he injects once a month that stops withdrawal symptoms and the effects of heroin. Ive been on that ever since, Melki told The Age at a media tour of the injecting room as part of the harm-reduction conference last month. Saade Melki, 49, stopped using heroin three years ago after being introduced to pharmacotherapy at the facility. Credit: Penny Stephens Hes now looking at IVF with his partner, hoping to save for a house, and works as a scaffolder in construction. More than 700 people have started opioid treatment through the safe injecting room.

The Ryan report said access to pharmacotherapy was significantly under-resourced in Victoria. The system is fragmented and challenging to navigate, creating high levels of unmet need. Loading It recommended trying hydromorphine, which was supported by Clark, the state opposition and Liberal Democrats, but the government blocked a proposal to allow its use on Thursday. Whether North Richmond Community Health remains at the helm of the facility on Lennox Street is an open question. The Andrews government is recommissioning the contract, and the Ryan report said a hospital should be involved in some way to expand wraparound services and mental-health support onsite.

Users at the safe injecting room are about 27 times more likely to have post-traumatic stress disorder than the general population and 11 per cent have been admitted to hospital for a mental-health-related condition. Loading A new provider, which could be a consortium that still includes North Richmond Community Health, for example, is expected to be announced by the end of the year. Clark, proud of the work and the benefits to peoples lives, knows there is more to be done. Its been incredibly rewarding  but its also the most challenging job Ive ever done, no doubt about it.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has cashed in her Hunter Valley investment property for $1.1 million, doubling her money in the decade she owned it.

Records show the Queensland senator purchased the former Exchange Hotel in the heart of Maitland for $449,000 in 2012 in partnership with local real estate agent Rhonda Nyquist.

The historic pub in Maitland has doubled in value since it last sold in 2012 for $449,000. Credit:

It was sold to a syndicate of buyers in the Dig & Hedge company, of which one is Ines Scotland, one of the countrys most successful women executives in mining.

But rather than toast her significant capital gain from the sale Hanson took the opportunity to slam the federal government for the cost of living pressures and rental housing crisis facing many Australians.
Cairo: The Arab League has readmitted Syria after more than a decade of suspension, consolidating a regional push to normalise ties with President Bashar al-Assad, a decision criticised by Washington but hailed in Moscow.

The decision allows Syria to resume its participation in Arab League meetings immediately, while calling for a resolution of the crisis resulting from its civil war, including the flight of refugees to neighbouring countries and drug smuggling across the region.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad welcomes Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi at the Presidential Palace in Damascus last week. Credit: Getty

While Arab states including the United Arab Emirates have pressed to end Assads isolation, some, like the United States, have been opposed to full normalisation without a political solution to the Syrian conflict, seeking conditions for its return.

Syrias membership was suspended in 2011 after Assads crackdown on street protests against his government that led to the civil war. Several Gulf states including Saudi Arabia began backing rebel groups fighting to oust Assad from power.
2024 Mazda CX-90 3 Row SUV Pricing and Choice Of Engines and Options

2024 Mazda CX-90 Review By Larry Nutson

New Three-Row Crossover SUV Offers Three Electrified Powertrains and 11 Models

2024 CX-90 will have a starting MSRP 1 of $39,595 and will arrive in dealerships in spring 2023

of and will arrive in dealerships in spring 2023 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S models with the e-Skyactiv 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo engine has an EPA estimated 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined

Standard e-Skyactiv 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo engine provides improved efficiency with an EPA estimated 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while offering increased power from CX-9

CX-90 is available with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 7, 2023 -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced pricing and packaging for its all-new flagship vehicle, the first-ever Mazda CX-90. The CX-90, which goes on sale this spring as a 2024 model, features an alluring design, well-crafted interior, and performance-oriented electrified powertrains.

THREE ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS

Available in three new powertrain options, CX-90 3.3 Turbo S, CX-90 PHEV, and CX-90 3.3 Turbo, the three-row crossover SUV will be offered with 11 packages to meet various customer needs.

CX-90 3.3 Turbo S is equipped with the e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Inline 6 Turbo, which is the most powerful mass production gasoline engine developed by Mazda, producing up to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended premium fuel while achieving an EPA estimated 23 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.

CX-90 PHEV is equipped with the e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain, which is an electric motor mated to a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that combined produce 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque when using the recommended premium fuel. The CX-90 PHEV is designed to operate purely on the electric motor in a variety of driving scenarios. To provide owners with flexibility and peace of mind, Mazda's 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine has been adapted to work alongside the electric motor and 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery. This is helpful for longer drives or when the driver requires maximum acceleration, such as merging onto the freeway. EPA estimated range and fuel economy figures for the CX-90 PHEV will be shared closer to on-sale.

Also available is the CX-90 3.3 Turbo with the standard e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Turbo engine producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque with regular fuel that can achieve an EPA estimated 24 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. Both inline six engines are equipped with M-Hybrid Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, providing efficiency without compromising its remarkable performance.

All three powertrain choices are paired with Mazda's new eight-speed automatic transmission, specifically designed for the electrified longitudinal powertrains and large platform. The electric motor is placed between the engine and transmission, creating smooth acceleration from a standstill, and allowing the motor to directly power the CX-90 at low speed.

All CX-90 models are equipped with standard features that provide drivers with Mazda's signature driving dynamics and confidence. This includes Mazda Intelligent Drive Select, or Mi-Drive, with Sport and Off-Road modes, Kinematic Posture Control, a software feature first debuted on the MX-5 Miata that suppresses body lift on tight corners to enhance the grip and help all occupants to maintain a natural posture, and i-Activ all-wheel drive (AWD) technology are both standard on all CX-90 models.

As with all Mazda vehicles, safety is a priority for the CX-90 for both the driver and all occupants. Standard i-Activsense2 safety features include Smart City Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Driver Attention Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. All CX-90 models also include a new rear seat alert feature to help avoid accidentally leaving objects or occupants still in the rear seats when exiting the vehicle.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO

The standard CX-90 3.3 Turbo is equipped with the standard e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Turbo engine, which is available in five packages.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO SELECT

All CX-90 3.3 Turbo models offer customers an impressive array of standard safety, convenience, and technology amenities. With eight-passenger seating, the second and third-row bench seating can each seat up to three passengers. The interior features include black leatherette seats, leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel with paddle shifters, 10.25-inch full-color center display, a seven-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display, eight-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Mazda Connect infotainment system, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry, push-button start, front and second-row dual USB inputs, rear power windows, automatic climate control, and eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, among many more standard features.

Moving to the exterior of the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select, standard features include unique 19-inch Silver Metallic Finish alloy wheels, power liftgate, roof rails, automatic on/off LED headlights with auto-leveling, LED daytime running lamps, LED taillights, High Beam Control, power and heated doors mirror with LED turn signal indicators, and rain sensing windshield wipers. While the "Inline 6" fender badge will be noticed first, the exterior also features black garnishes and a honeycomb front grille mesh with a black finish.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREFERRED

Building upon the list of standard features, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred package is available in a seven-passenger seating option for customers who opt for the second-row captain's chairs, armrests, and a center walk through. Additionally this package adds a power sunroof, black or greige leather seats, heated front seats, four-way power adjustable passenger seat, and second-row retractable window shades. The USB inputs are upgraded to Type-C and added to the third row for faster charging, giving this package a total of six USB Type-C inputs. The exterior is also updated with piano black garnishes and front grille mesh.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREFERRED PLUS

Mi-Drive is equipped on the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus package, which includes Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes. The maximum towing capacity is increased to 5,000 lbs. when equipped with Mazda Genuine Towing Accessories.

Additionally, this package includes wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration while adding a wireless phone charger in the front row. This package also adds a new, larger Active Driving Display, a head-up display projected on the windshield. This larger display is able to project more driving assistance system information, while adding the ability to display navigation directions from either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREMIUM

Building on the previous packages, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium has standard seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs, armrests, and a center walk through. The exterior is upgraded with 21-inch Silver Metallic Finish alloy wheels, hands-free power liftgate, power panoramic sunroof, shark fin antenna, and chrome garnishes on the bumpers, emphasizing CX-90's width and timeless styling. Other interior features include Bose 12-speaker premium audio system, frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, two-position memory for the driver's seat, upgraded interior lighting, SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month trial, and SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link with three-year subscription.

The i-Activsense2 safety features are also enhanced with new Emergency Lane Keeping, that provides lane keeping alerts, and if necessary, steering inputs, to help the driver avoid roadway departures and predicted collisions with surrounding vehicles, and Secondary Collision Reduction System, which is designed to apply the brakes after a rear-end collision to help avoid secondary damage. Other safety features include Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and front and rear parking sensors.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO PREMIUM PLUS

The CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus features an all-new 12.3-inch full center display with touchscreen capabilities exclusively for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The fully digital 12.3-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display is a first for Mazda vehicles and will help intuitively provide the driver with necessary driving information.

This package introduces Front Crossing and Turn-Across Traffic Braking, which is an enhancement to Smart Brake Support and helps detect and mitigate collisions with objects approaching and crossing the vehicle's forward path, as well as the detection and mitigation of collisions with vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians in the vehicle's intended path when turning at an intersection. The 360 View Monitor is enhanced with a new See-Through View feature that projects a large image of the area ahead of and besides the CX-90 on the center display. This helps the driver's ability to safely view all angles when maneuvering CX-90 in various situations, such as narrow spaces or crowded parking spaces, or around objects, such as bicycles or toys left on the driveway.

Additional upgrades include black or white Nappa leather seats, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, eight-way power adjustable passenger seat, heated second-row seats, Smart Brake Support Reverse, 150-volt power outlet in the cargo area, windshield wiper de-icer, and power-folding, auto-dimming door mirrors.

CX-90 PHEV

The CX-90 PHEV is equipped with the e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain, which is available in three packages.

CX-90 PHEV PREFERRED

All CX-90 PHEV models are equipped with Mi-Drive include Sport and Off-Road Modes, while introducing a new EV Mode. EV mode will allow the driver to operate CX-90 PHEV on only the electric motor and battery for as long as possible.

CX-90 PHEV Preferred has eight-passenger seating in the same configuration as the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select or a seven-passenger seating with available second-row captain's chairs, armrests, and a center walk through. CX-90 PHEV Preferred includes the fully digital 12.3-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display, while all exterior, interior, and safety features found on the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred are also equipped on this package, while the exterior fender badge changes to "PHEV".

CX-90 PHEV PREMIUM

CX-90 PHEV Premium adds a Towing mode to its Mi-Drive. While towing capacity remains 3,500 lbs., this feature will further help the driver feel confident in towing scenarios. Unique to the CX-90 PHEV, is a 1500-watt charging outlet located in the cargo area that can power or charge appliances and equipment, which can help provide peace of mind during extended family trips.

CX-90 PHEV Premium offers standard seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs, armrests, and a center walk through. Other interior features include wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bose 12-speaker premium audio, wireless phone charger, frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink, two-position memory for the driver's seat, upgraded interior lighting, SiriusXM satellite radio with three-month trial, and SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link with three-year subscription.

Exterior features include 21-inch Machine Cut Finish alloy wheels, power panoramic sunroof, hands-free power liftgate, and bright chrome accents. The i-Activsense2 safety features added are Emergency Lane Keeping, Secondary Collision Reduction System, Blind Spot Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and front and rear parking sensors.

CX-90 PHEV PREMIUM PLUS

The CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus features the 12.3-inch full center display that includes touchscreen capabilities for only Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

This package includes Front Crossing and Turn-Across Traffic Braking and 360 View Monitor with See-Through View. Additional upgrades include black or white Nappa leather seats, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, eight-way power adjustable passenger seat, heated second-row seats, Smart Brake Support Reverse, windshield wiper de-icer, and power-folding, auto-dimming door mirrors.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO S

The upper trim CX-90 3.3 Turbo S is equipped with the e-Skyactiv G 3.3L Turbo engine, which is available in three packages.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO S

All CX-90 3.3 Turbo S models come equipped with Mi-Drive modes including Sport, Off-Road, and Towing reaching a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. As standard, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo S offers seven-passenger seating with second-row bench seating and a two-seat third row, while a six-passenger seating option is available with the choice of second-row captain's chairs, armrests, and a center walk through. This package introduces two new i-Activsense2 safety features. Cruising & Traffic Support is Mazda's most advanced form of active driving assistance, providing highway speed lane centering and adaptive cruise control for confident, hands-on driving. Vehicle Exit Warning provides an alert if a pedestrian or cyclist is approaching the vehicle from behind while parked to help the occupants exit safely.

While this model shares all the standard features found in the CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium package, upgrades include a 12.3-inch full center display with touchscreen capabilities for only Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, fully digital 12.3-inch TFT LCD instrument panel display, body-color wheel arch molding, 21-inch Machine Cut Finish alloy wheels, Adaptive Front-lighting System, eight-way power adjustable passenger seat.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO S PREMIUM

Building on the previous model, CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium introduces Driver Personalization System, a first for Mazda. The Mazda Driver Personalization System is a driver-enabled feature that restores various driver settings. If driver-enabled, the internal camera located on the upper left corner of the Mazda Connect screen scans facial features and stores them in-vehicle to recognize the driver on future drives. Driver facial data stored for this feature is encrypted, stored in-vehicle, and not subject to remote access. The Turbo S Premium comes standard with six-passenger seating with second row captain's chairs, armrests and, a center walk through and two-seat third row.

Other additions to this package include 360 View Monitor with See-Through View, Front Cross Traffic Alert with Front Cross Traffic Braking, black or white Nappa leather seats, heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescopic and memory setting, frameless auto-diming rearview mirror, automatic power folding and dimming door mirrors, and Smart Brake Support Reverse.

CX-90 3.3 TURBO S PREMIUM PLUS

At the top of the CX-90 model lineup, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus completes the experience by blending first-class craftsmanship and design Mazda's world-class performance. This six-passenger configuration offers second row captain's chairs with a center console, while also adding heated seats. Additionally, ventilated seats are included for both the front and second row. Helping elevate the interior cabin, Nappa leather seats are available in new tan quilting or white Japanese Premium options. The interior trim is wrapped with an inviting, suede-like fabric with unique hanging stitches, which is specifically inspired by hand-bookbinding and an intricate Japanese weaving technique known as Kakenui, on the dash. Lastly, new two-tone leather wrapped steering wheel, maple wood trim, and upgraded front and rear foot lighting balance the dignified interior to give the driver and all occupants an elevated experience in the CX-90.

For more information on the 2024 Mazda CX-90, please visit MazdaUSA.com.

STARTING MSRP1 FOR THE 2024 MAZDA CX-90 IS AS FOLLOWS:

Package Starting MSRP CX-90 3.3 Turbo Select $39,595 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred $43,445 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred Plus $45,900 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium $48,900 CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus $52,950 CX-90 PHEV Preferred $47,445 CX-90 PHEV Premium $52,900 CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus $56,950 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S $51,750 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium $56,450 CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus $59,950

PREMIUM PAINT COLORS:

Artisan Red $595 Rhodium White $595 Soul Red Crystal Metallic $595 Machine Gray Metallic $595

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Columbia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at News.MazdaUSA.com.

Follow MNAO's social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.

1 MSRP does not include $1,375 for destination and handling ($1,420 in Alaska), taxes, title, or additional fees. Dealers set actual sale prices.

2 i-Activsense safety features are not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. There are limitations to the range and detection of each safety feature. Safety features vary based on vehicle package and trim combinations. Please see the Owner's Manual for further details.

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations
High Voltage: Yokohama Tire and Electrify Expo Partner on "New Showoff" Customized EV Section

Tiremaker is the Presenting Sponsor of "Electrify Showoff" Driven by Yokohama, the epicenter of EV customization

SANTA ANA, CA  (May 8, 2023)  Yokohama Tire is plugging into the latest trend in car customizations: electric vehicles (EVs). The tiremaker has been named Presenting Sponsor of Electrify Showoff Driven by Yokohama. Electrify Showoff is the special new section devoted to the next generation of car culture and customization trends. Its part of Electrify Expo, North Americas largest EV festival, which kicks-off its seven-city tour May 19-21 in Long Beach, California.

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!

The response we have received since launching Electrify Showoff from both brands and enthusiasts proves that we have filled an important void in the space, said BJ Birtwell, founder and executive producer of Electrify Expo. Yokohama's sponsorship of 'Showoff' reinforces their leadership of new tire technology as well as understanding the imminent shift happening within car culture towards EVs.

Yokohama, which will have a display in the Showoff section, will showcase to attendees how its tires can be used on EVs, from daily drivers to motorsports. As a company, Yokohama has a long history of providing tires for all categories, Briggs said, and EVs are no exception. Yokohama was standard equipment on the original Tesla Roadster and we continue to exceed the needs of a continuously changing market.

Later this year, Yokohama is planning to introduce an ultra high-performance all-season tire, specifically targeted for electric vehicles, and has developed EV-specific race tires for Nitrocross Group E class. Additionally, the brand will be returning to Pikes Peak this year, once again partnering with Unplugged Performance and the Tesla Model S Plaid. The effort will be supported by ADVAN A005 racing slicks, which utilize biomass-derived butadiene rubber and an increased usage of sustainable materials.

Yokohama will have various EV motorsports vehicles and special EV builds on display at different Electrify Expos. At Long Beach, Yokohama will feature in its booth the modified electric VW ID4 AWD, which competed in the Rebelle Rally, along with the all-electric, 1055 horsepower, four-motor, four-wheel-drive FC1-X Nitrocross car and the Pikes Peak-raced 2018 Evasive Tesla Model 3.

For more on Electrify Showoff and the Electrify Expo, visit www.electrifyexpo.com .

About Yokohama Tire Corporation

Yokohama Tire Corporation is the North American manufacturing and marketing arm of Tokyo, Japan-based The Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., a global manufacturing and sales company of premium tires since 1917. Servicing an extensive sales network throughout the U.S., Yokohama Tire Corporation is a leader in technology and innovation. The companys complete product line includes tires for high-performance, light truck, passenger car, and commercial truck and bus. For more information on Yokohamas broad product line, visit www.yokohamatire.com and www.yokohamatruck.com.

Connect with Yokohama Tire Corporation:

www.facebook.com/yokohamatire

www.twitter.com/yokohamatc

www.youtube.com/user/ yokohamamotorsports

www.instagram.com/yokohamatire

www.linkedin.com/company/ yokohama-tire-corporation
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The execution of an order on pardoning a number of convicted persons in Penitentiary Institution No. 4 for Female Convicts has begun in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

The order affected five people serving sentences in this institution. As a result, three female convicts were released, and two convicts had their sentences reduced.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on pardoning a number of convicts on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. The pardon order is scheduled to be executed by May 10.

According to the Decree, as many as 801 convicts were pardoned, of which 463 people were released from imprisonment, 220 people from half of the unserved part of the punishment in the form of imprisonment, 118 people from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, correctional labor, punishment in the form of a fine and persons sentenced to suspended sentence).

A total of 14 of the pardoned convicts are foreigners, 12 of them are being fully released from punishment, and two are from half of the sentence. Four convicted foreigners are subject to forced expulsion from the country after being released from punishment by the relevant sentence. Since other citizens of foreign countries are Azerbaijanis by ethnicity or their family members are citizens of Azerbaijan, forced expulsion will not be applied to them.

As many as 10 convicts were released from punishment on the basis of appeals from human rights organizations. Among them are journalist Elchin Mamed, Chairman of the Citizens and Development Party Ali Aliyev, as well as five people who were convicted in connection with the terrorist events, and 3 people in connection with the events in Ganja in 2018. It was decided to pardon these persons, taking into account their behavior during the term of serving their sentence, marital status, and health condition.

A total of 14 meetings of the Pardon Commission under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan have been held, at which about 2,400 documents were discussed, since January of this year.

This decree is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies in comparison with the pardon order of May 24, 2018, adopted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, applied to 634 convicts.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Rovshan Abdullayev, who was pardoned, following a recent decree of the head of state, told Trend he was thankful to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev for the opportunity.

According to Abdullayev, he was convicted of premeditated murder.

"I spent nine years in prison. There were still two years one month 18 days left. I am grateful to the President for the pardon. On my own behalf and on behalf of my family, I thank the esteemed President," he said.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on pardoning a number of convicts on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. The pardon decree is scheduled to be executed by May 10.

According to the Decree, as many as 801 convicts were pardoned, of which 463 people were released from imprisonment, 220 people from half of the unserved part of the punishment in the form of imprisonment, 118 people from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, correctional labor, punishment in the form of a fine and persons sentenced to suspended sentence).

A total of 14 of the pardoned convicts are foreigners, 12 of them are being fully released from punishment, and two are from half of the sentence. Four convicted foreigners are subject to forced expulsion from the country after being released from punishment by the relevant sentence. Since other citizens of foreign countries are Azerbaijanis by ethnicity or their family members are citizens of Azerbaijan, forced expulsion will not be applied to them.

As many as 10 convicts were released from punishment on the basis of appeals from human rights organizations.

This decree is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies in comparison with the pardon order of May 24, 2018, adopted on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, applied to 634 convicts.
Cheyenne, WY (82001)

Today

Periods of rain. High 49F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with overcast skies overnight. Low 42F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The ballots of Turkish citizens who voted [for Turkiye presidential and parliamentary elections] in Azerbaijan have been sent to Turkiye, Trend reports via the tweet of Turkish Ambassador to Azerbaijan Jahit Bagchi.

"We wish our country and nation all the best," he said.

The presidential and parliamentary elections in Turkiye will be held on May 14 2023. Four candidates will participate in the presidential race. These are the current President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the chairman of the Republican People's Party Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the head of the Memleket Party Muharrem Ince and the nominee of the Ataturkist Alliance Sinan Ogan.

Voters will elect a president for a term of five years. Early elections in the country were postponed due to the deadly earthquake. It is estimated that about 65 million voters will cast their votes in the elections (over 60 million in the country, and some 3.6 million abroad).

The president of Turkiye is directly elected through the two-round system, under which a candidate must obtain a simple majority (more than 50 percent) of the popular vote in order to be elected. If no candidate secures an overall majority outright, then a runoff is held between the two most voted-for candidates from the first round, the winner of which is then declared elected.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been the president of Turkiye since 2014.
Ive had a wee looksie and I can confirm that Bronte Schofield, Janelle Han and Lyndall Grace all still have public TikTok accounts, but Jesse Burford who was the first to go rogue with his TikTok antics has since removed his video implying he and Janelle were seeing each other before the show had ended.
The image was posted with the caption 'No one has thicker skin than me, do your best. Good luck', which received 99 responses from users on the platform.
California and New York lawmakers have proposed bills to ban five toxic chemical food additives linked to cancer and behavioral and developmental issues in children.

Jesse Gabriel (D-Woodland Hills), and Buffy Wicks (D-Sacramento), both members of the California Assembly, proposed Assembly Bill AB 418 in February. The bill is co-sponsored by Consumer Reports and the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

The bill was approved, then amended by the California State Assembly Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials on April 13 and will move to the Appropriations Committee next.

New York State Sen. Brian Kavanaugh followed with the proposal of Senate Bill S6055 in March, to ban the same five food additives across New York, which has not yet been moved for a vote.

If the bills pass, manufacturers will be forced to change their recipes in popular foods like Sour Patch Kids, Skittles, cake frostings, and some Campbells soup products to comply with new standards or face penalties of up to $5000 for a first violation and $10,000 if repeated.

The National Confectioners Association released a statement on March 23 stating, We strongly oppose AB 418 because there is no evidence to support banning the ingredients listed in the bill. The ingredients that would be banned under this proposal have all been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Food safety is the number one priority for U.S. confectionery companies, and we do not use any ingredients in our products that do not comply with the FDAs strictest safety standards.

Assemblymember Gabriel stated in an April EWG press release:

There is no realistic chance that this bill will result in Skittles or any other product being pulled off the shelf. The idea here is for these companies to make minor modifications to their recipes so that these products no longer include dangerous and toxic chemicals. Skittles and many other brands have already made changes to their recipes in the European Union, the United Kingdom and other nations where these chemicals are banned. While the chemical companies might want you to believe were going too far with this bill, we are in fact many steps behind the rest of the world. We simply want our kids to have the same protection.

The five targeted chemical food additives are prohibited from being used in processed foods throughout the European Union, except for Red Dye No. 3, which is still in candied cherries. However, despite studies linking these five additives to serious health concerns, they have not yet been banned in the United States and can be found in thousands of processed foods.

What Are the 5 Chemical Additives?

Red Dye No. 3

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned Red Dye No. 3 from cosmetics and externally applied drugs in 1990 after a study found that the dye caused animal cancer. Yet it was never banned in food products and remains an ingredient in over 2900 foods in the United States, including candy, snack cakes, fruit cocktail cherries, sugary drinks, bacon bits, and medications.

In 2012, Red Dye No. 3 and other artificial food colors were also linked to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children.

A 2010 study found that Red Dye No. 3, also called Erythrosine, causes rodent thyroid tumors. Yet the FDA has not reviewed the health effects of Red Dye No. 3 since 1990, despite telling the public it would take necessary steps to eliminate the dye used in food, as reported by the Chicago Tribune.

Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is a mineral regularly found in our environment and utilized as a whitening agent in various products, including common household products, industrial products, and cosmetics. It has been deemed to be safe as a food color additive by the FDA.

Food manufacturers use titanium dioxides whitening properties to maintain the brightness in white foods like whipped cream, milk, and mozzarella cheese. Because it doesnt discolor or break down easily, it helps increase the shelf life of many foods.

Titanium dioxide was linked to cancer in 1985 when a study exposed rats to increased levels of titanium dioxide for two years, resulting in lung cancer. However, some experts disagreed with the study, while others stated that titanium dioxide is unsafe for human consumption.

A 2022 article reviewing past studies of titanium dioxide and lung cancer stated that the 1985 study was performed under extreme conditions. The rats were exposed to high levels of titanium dioxide, and the same effects could not be replicated in other animal species. The same article concluded that even the studies focusing on titanium dioxides impact on humans showed no increase in cancer risk.

Brominated Vegetable Oil

Derived from corn and soybean oils, brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is used in citrus-flavored sodas and other drinks to help keep oil-based citrus flavoring and water well-blended. It was initially approved in small amounts by the FDA in 1977, pending further studies. However, those studies were either never done or were not reported on.

On May 17, 2022, the FDA acknowledged that their study results published on May 16, 2022, in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology suggested that oral exposure to BVO increases levels of bromine which can lead to adverse effects on the thyroid, as seen in rodents. The FDA stated, An additional study to identify the level of BVO in the body after consumption of BVO is being finalized.  We will inform the public if new information or recommendations about BVO become available.

Bromine has been found to irritate the mouth, nose, and stomach mucous membranes, but side effects could be more severe in high doses. In a 1997 case, a patient reported to the emergency room with severe bromine intoxication with symptoms including headache, fatigue, loss of muscle coordination, and memory loss from drinking two to four liters of soda per day containing brominated vegetable oil.

Although BVO remains on the FDAs Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) list, companies like Pepsi and Coca-Cola have agreed to remove BVO from all beverages. Other drinks containing BVO are Dr. Peppers citrus soda Sundrop and Wal-Marts Mountain Dew spin-off, Mountain Lightening.

Potassium Bromate

The additive potassium bromate is an inexpensive dough improver that strengthens bread dough, helps it rise, and improves the overall baking effect.

The FDA first approved potassium bromate in the 1960s (pdf). In 1992, the California Environmental Protection Agency evaluated potassium bromate for its carcinogenic effect (pdf) and rated it as having no significant risk. However, the EWG gave potassium bromate a higher concern rating after reviewing studies that found it may cause cancer.

The FDA has yet to review the chemical for safety since 1973.

Propylparaben

Propylparaben is a preservative used in cosmetics, an antifungal and antimicrobial agent, and is used as a food additive and preservative. Several studies have confirmed the chemicals effect on the endocrine system by altering hormone signaling and gene expression. Yet it is used in more than 50 food products, including packaged corn tortillas, baked desserts, and cake icing.

Despite mounting evidence, the FDA still regards propylparaben as safe and has not taken action to remove or reassess its safety.

Due to a loophole in the law, the FDAs GRAS classification allows food and chemical companies to determine whether food chemicals are safe to put into foods rather than requiring the FDA to make the final decision, even if ongoing studies are conducted on a chemicals safety. Since 2000, the FDA has greenlighted nearly 99 percent of all food chemicals, according to an EWG analysis.

Dirty Dozen Guide to Food Chemicals

The EWG provides a Dirty Dozen Guide to Food Chemicals describing the chemicals, the foods that contain them, and why they should be avoided. Some are direct additives while others are indirect, meaning they can get into food during processing, storage, or packaging. The full list includes the five chemicals California and New York are attempting to ban, in addition to the following:

Nitrates and nitritespreservatives used in cured meats

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole)preservative used in cured meats and other foods

BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)preservative found in cereals and other foods

TBHQ (tert-butyl hydroquinone)preservative used in Pop-Tarts and other processed foods

PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl)forever chemical used in food packaging that can leach into the food

Artificial sweetenerscan negatively affect hormones and weight control

Heavy metals, including mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic found at dangerous levels in some baby foods

How to Avoid Harmful Food Additives

According to the EWG, many food manufacturers have stopped using some potentially harmful additives, and some stores have stopped selling the foods that contain them. Although these chemicals can be replaced with alternative ingredients, they are often more expensive, thus less attractive to manufacturers.

If these bills are passed, it may be more cost-effective for food manufacturers to change their ingredients altogether rather than on a state-by-state basis.

In the meantime, certified nutritionist Katie Hall has some practical advice. To avoid these additives, consumers can opt for whole, unprocessed foods and read ingredient labels carefully. Additionally, choosing organic products, and cooking meals at home can help limit exposure to potentially harmful additives, she told The Epoch Times.
Alberta Requests Military Aid From Ottawa to Deal With Wildfires

Alberta wildfire evacuees get supplies and get checked in at the evacuation centre in Edmonton, May 7, 2023. (Jason Franson/The Canadian Press)

The Alberta government has requested military aid and other additional support from the federal government to deal with the unprecedented numbers of wildfires burning across the province.

In a May 8 letter obtained by The Epoch Times, Albertas Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike asks Ottawa to support the province in its response and recovery efforts, including providing military personnel to guard against looting and disorder in evacuated communities.

Addressed to federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair and Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, the letter also requests a number of other support measures such as additional firefighting resources, airlift support, water purification, engineering support, and heavy equipment.

The letter follows a call on May 8 between Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is in London, England for the coronation of King Charles. Smith said on Twitter that the call was productive, and confirmed the province had formally requested federal government assistance to deal with the devastating wildfires.

Prime Minister Trudeau assured me that Canada would be there to support Alberta in any way possible, Smith wrote on May 8.

Smoke from an out-of-control fire near Lodgepole, Alta., is shown in this May 4, 2023, handout photo. (The Canadian Press/Alberta Wildfire)

The federal government has also been asked to maintain assistance being provided by the RCMP to support security and evacuations, as well as to provide funding for RCMP operations within the province related to the wildfire response.

Alberta also requested an exemption from federal requirements, to add additional flight hours for air support underway for firefighting and evacuations.

The province asked the federal government to be flexible and provide exceptions for any Albertans receiving employment insurance, rapid enrollment to federal services for anyone evacuated or facing employment loss due to closed businesses as a result of the wildfires.

As of 1:30 p.m. on May 8, Alberta had 98 active wildfires with 28 burning out of control, and 54 contained and expected to be extinguished, according to the provincial dashboard.

The next scheduled Alberta fire update is May 8 at 3 p.m. local time.

Working Together

At a news conference in Ottawa on May 8, Blair said the federal government had been working closely with officials in Alberta, through the federal government operations centre and Albertas emergency operations centre to assess their needs, to offer federal resources, and to help them manage a very challenging situation.

I have been in many conversations with my counterpart, Minister Mike Ellis, earlier today and throughout the past weekend, and our officials have been fully engaged working to identify the appropriate resources, said Blair.

Ive also had a number of conversations today with the Canadian Red Cross about establishing a donation matching program. Were all working together to make sure that people impacted by these fires have the resources and the support that they will need in order to get through this.

Blair said in addition to wildfires in Alberta, the federal government is monitoring flooding in Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba, as well as fires in Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories.

And of course in British Columbia, which is experiencing both due to high temperatures and fast melting rivers, added Blair.
A Paraguayan father of two with no arms or legs found the strength and determination to raise both his girls, despite his limitations, when their mother abandoned them.

Pablo Acuna was born with a limb deformity, causing his arms and legs to not grow properly. Yet hes a happy, grateful man who lives in the city of Son Pedro del Parana, Paraguay. At 63 years old, hes a proud father of two daughters in their twenties, whom he has raised since they were babies with the help of his mother, Ignacia del Valle.

Although Pablo has suffered from his condition since his birth, he said it has never affected him. Apart from not being able to attend high school and having his parents take care of him, he had a pretty normal childhood.

I cant complain, Pablo told The Epoch Times as translated from Spanish. My parents did the best they could.

Pablo Acuna with his daughter Elida. (Courtesy of Elida Acuna)

One of six siblings, Pablo was raised by loving, attentive parents and wanted to do the same for his own children. Despite separating from his wife, hes grateful that she gave him two wonderful daughters.

Im very positive and grateful for my life because I have my daughters, he said.

His youngest daughter, Elida, 26, sings his praises for providing a very nice childhood despite his not having arms and legs.

I was raised by my dad and grandmother, Elida said. My dad is incredible. He is a very wonderful person, he is always seen with a smile; never have I seen him depressed.

Since Pablo cannot walk, he has used a wooden wheelbarrow as a sitting and sleeping platform for decades. He is known locally as El Hombre Carretilla, or The Wheelbarrow Man, according to C9N Paraguay.

(Courtesy of Elida Acuna)

According to Elida, Pablos greatest wish is to own his home. Elida told the Paraguayan newspaper Cronica that her family, who lives for rent, is desperately saving to this end.

Since her grandmother turned 93, Elida has returned to the family home in Paraguay from Buenos Aires, Argentina to help take care of her father, whose abilities are increasingly limited.

I had to give up a lot of things to return to Paraguay, she told The Epoch Times. The only thing my father does for himself is manage his phone and the remote control. Other than that I do everything else.

Elida said she has dedicated herself to helping her dad and grandmother and they move forward with Gods help.

(Courtesy of Elida Acuna)

Despite his hardship, Pablo has no regrets about his condition. He continues to have an unwavering faith that keeps his outlook positive.

Be grateful for your life and to God, because he knows why he makes us the way we are in this world, he said.

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
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The execution of the decree of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the pardon of a number of convicts on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev has been completed, Trend reports.

The decree was executed in the Penitentiary and Probation Services of the Ministry of Justice of Azerbaijan.

According to the Decree, as many as 801 convicts were pardoned, of which 463 people were released from imprisonment, 220 people from half of the unserved part of the punishment in the form of imprisonment, 118 people from other punishments not related to imprisonment (restriction of liberty, correctional labor, punishment in the form of a fine and persons sentenced to suspended sentence).

This decree is the largest act of pardon adopted in the history of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan in terms of the number of persons to whom it applies.
ANALYSIS: Invoking the 14th Amendment as Plan B to Avert Debt Default?

As the debt ceiling standoff grinds toward the so-called X-date, when the government can no longer borrow and must rely on incoming revenue to settle its obligations, the idea of invoking the 14th Amendment as a way to avoid a possible debt default has come into the spotlight.

Invoking the 14th Amendmentusing executive power to declare the debt ceiling unconstitutionalwas floated in several interviews with top Biden administration officials in recent days as a possible last-ditch measure to prevent a U.S. sovereign debt default if negotiations on raising the debt cap fail.

The United States bumped up against its $31.4 trillion debt ceiling in January, leaving it to Congress to raise the cap and allow the government to keep paying its bills. Democrats have insisted on legislation with no preconditions to raise the debt ceiling, while Republicans have demanded spending cuts in exchange for their support to lift the borrowing cap.

President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) are slated to meet this week to discuss raising the debt ceiling, while Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned that if no solution is reached, then the X-date (and a possible debt default) could come as early as June 1.

Our current projection is that in early June, a day will come when were unable to pay our bills unless Congress raises the debt ceiling, Yellen told ABC in an interview on May 8, in which she urged Congress to act to avoid a steep economic downturn.

Its widely agreed that financial and economic chaos will ensue, Yellen added, noting that the U.S. Treasury has been resorting to extraordinary measures to allow the government to keep settling its debt obligations since the debt ceiling cap was hit in January.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen testifies on Capitol Hill on March 16, 2023. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

With rhetoric heating up around the possibility of a debt default, attention has increasingly turned to what measures aside from a congressionally approved lifting of the debt ceiling could be reached to avoid what Yellen said would be an economic calamity.

Biden on May 5 suggested that hes considering the possibility of invoking the 14th Amendment, which reads in part that the validity of the United States public debt shall not be questioned.

Biden was asked during an interview on MSNBC on May 5 whether hes prepared to invoke the 14th Amendment and blow through the debt ceiling, with the interviewer saying there are members of Congress who might be willing to allow a government debt default to hurt the president politically.

Ive not gotten there yet, Biden replied, adding that hes prepared to negotiate with Republicans on a budget, but not on the GOPs latest legislative proposal to raise the debt cap in exchange for spending cuts.

Biden has demanded that Congress pass a clean bill to lift the $31.4 trillion ceiling, and he has said he would veto the Republican legislation if it reaches his desk.

Risk of Constitutional Crisis

Yellen was asked about the possibility that Biden would invoke the 14th Amendment in the ABC interview on May 8, and she downplayed the idea that this would be a viable solution.

Im still not exactly clear on whether its on the table or off the table, ABCs George Stephanopoulos said to Yellen. Is it a break glass in case of emergency option?

Yellen replied by saying she doesnt want to focus on the prospect of last-ditch emergency measures and reiterated her call for Congress to act.

Whats important is that members of Congress recognize what their responsibility is, and avert what will surely beregardless of how its handled, what option is used to handle itan economic and financial catastrophe, she said.

Stephanopoulos then said it seems Yellen wasnt taking the option off the table.

There is no way to protect our financial system in our economy other than Congress doing its job and raising the debt ceiling and enabling us to pay our bills. And we should not get to the point where we need to consider whether the president can go on issuing debt, Yellen said. This would be a constitutional crisis.

It comes as Biden is slated to meet with congressional leaders on May 9 to discuss the debt limit deadlock and spending cuts.

Some two dozen Republican senators on May 6 signed a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) expressing their commitment to oppose raising the debt cap without substantive spending and budget reforms.

Our economy is in free fall due to unsustainable fiscal policies, the senators wrote. This trajectory must be addressed with fiscal reforms.

They argued that House Republicans have taken a responsible first step by putting forward a proposal that pairs raising the debt cap by $1.5 trillion with $4.5 trillion in spending cuts over a decade.

The House has taken a responsible first step in coming to the table with their proposals. It is imperative that the president now do the same, they wrote.

The Republicans 320-page billcalled the Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023seeks to return discretionary spending to 2022 levels, cap spending growth to 1 percent per year, and repeal certain tax credits.

McCarthy has said that he hopes the GOP proposal would drive negotiations forward.

Remember what this bill is. This bill is to get us to the negotiating table. Its not the final provisions, McCarthy told reporters on Capitol Hill in late April.

Biden has refused to negotiate, insisting on a clean bill to raise the debt cap.

President Biden has refused to do his jobthreatening to bumble our nation into its first-ever defaultand the clock is ticking, McCarthy said in response to Yellens warning that the United States might be unable to pay its bills potentially as early as June 1.

Invoking the 14th Amendment as Plan B?

The U.S. Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse, though some have argued that the 14th Amendment contains a fail-safe that could be used as a last-ditch measure to avoid a potentially crippling debt default.

An attempt to override the congressionally mandated debt ceiling has never been tried, though it has been suggested as an emergency option in prior debt limit standoffs.

During the most recent debt ceiling impasse, in 2011, former president Bill Clinton said that if he were in the shoes of then-president Barack Obama, he would be prepared to invoke the 14th Amendment without hesitation, and force the courts to stop me.

Clinton said at the time that raising the debt ceiling is so unpopular because people think youre voting to keep [increasing] deficit spending, instead of voting to honor obligations that were already incurred, essentially the same argument that Biden and the Democrats have made during the current deadlock.

Congress ultimately resolved that debt ceiling crisis by passing the Budget Control Act of 2011, which allowed the debt cap to be raised by $2.4 trillion in two phases.

Following the resolution, Standard & Poors (S&P) took the unusual step of downgrading the countrys long-term credit rating from AAA to AA+, despite the fact that a default was averted.

The reason for the downgrade, according to the credit rating agencys report (pdf), was that it believed that the agreed-to fiscal consolidation plan fell short of what would be necessary to stabilize the governments medium-term debt dynamics.

At the time, S&P cited the measures unimpressive size of deficit-reduction plans compared with the probability of future debt accumulation spurred by politically driven spending.

Recently, House and Senate Democrats have signaled plans to file a discharge petition, which would force a vote on a clean debt ceiling increase without the spending cuts Republicans have demanded.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) put forward the proposal in a Dear Colleague letter on May 2 (pdf). If 218 House members sign the discharge petition, it would force a vote on the clean debt cap bill.

However, five House Republicans would have to sign the petition for it to proceed, which could be a tall order, given the dynamics of the impasse.

Leader Jeffries refuses to negotiate, Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) told Axios in an interview.

Thats not how it works in a divided government. We have to govern, which means we have to find some agreement, which means we must negotiate.
He came to visit a home that I was renting in Karachi, and he went off for an interview. And he never came back. The man whom he was supposed to interview had set a trap for Danny. It was actually a kidnapping scheme. And Danny was never to be seen again.

In 2002, Wall Street Journal correspondent Asra Nomani was in Pakistan to investigate the Islamist ideology behind the 9/11 attacksin defiance of State Department warningswhen her colleague, Daniel Pearl, was kidnapped by ISIS terroristsand brutally beheaded.

That was the moment that I knew, deep in my heart, that we were in this war with this extremism. And what was that extremism defined by? It was defined by sectarianism and it was defined by the most illiberal of ideas, which is that there is a hierarchy of human value in the world, explains Nomani. And thats when I first confronted the fundamental idea of identity as a weapon.

Since then, Nomani has become an activist on many fronts, first as a Muslim reformerI, as a Muslim feminist, was declared Islamophobic because I dared to challenge the sexism within my faith and the intolerance, she saysand now as an ardent advocate of parental rights.

They want a dumbing down of the United States of America, and that is why they came after my sons school, says Nomani.

She is the author of Woke Army: The Red-Green Alliance That Is Destroying Americas Freedom. We discuss her book and talk liberal values, the line between free speech and character assassination, Big Tech, and soft power.

Soft power can be more damaging and can weaken a nation and a people even more than bullets or bombs, says Nomani.



FULL TRANSCRIPT

Jan Jekielek:

Asra Nomani, so good to have you back on American Thought Leaders.

Asra Nomani:

Thank you so much, its my honor. Its so nice to have you in my home.

Mr. Jekielek:

Its fantastic to be here. Its a difficult time in American history. This is something you have been charting, and that weve discussed numerous times. Youve always identified yourself as a classical liberal. Is this whole idea of classical liberalism here in America coming to an end?

Ms. Nomani:

Theres a war for the values of classical liberalism. What are they? They are simple ideas like individual freedom, free speech, and the actual value of family. Also, there is something else really important to me, which is a sense of equality, and a sense that there is no hierarchy of human value. That to me is the greatest tragedy right now, because we are in this existential threat to that kind of value system in which we really do view each other for the human beings that we are. Unfortunately, I see the kind of sectarian, divisive ideologies that so many of us have fled in order to find homes in America. I see that now taking root in the United States.

Mr. Jekielek:

Youve approached this question from a number of different vantage points. I remember we were on a panel about religious freedom together. Then, youve been in the parental rights movement. How did you become this fierce defender of classical liberalism or cognitive freedom?

Ms. Nomani:

To me its about cognitive consistency. Its about living with ethical congruity. How did this happen? It happened through a childhood and young adulthood of living in the freedoms of America, but also an incongruence with many of the messages that I was getting as a young Muslim girl. I was born in India and my family came here to the United States to enjoy the freedoms that America has provided us because of the values of classical liberalism, and the opportunity for equal opportunity. Indeed, the hierarchies of human value that have existed in so many nations around the world were ones that we were abandoning, like womens rights, equality, and free speech.

These were just joyful experiences that I had as a young girl growing up in the United States. But I was feeling an incongruence with some of the ideas that I was hearing and that were actually embedded inside of me from being a Muslim. Inside of the very traditional and fundamentalist interpretation of Islam, you are denied principles like free speech, because you are ruled by laws of blasphemy that can judge you and criminalize you.

You are denied individual rights, because you are now defined by the collective sense of how youre supposed to live, how youre supposed to marry, where youre supposed to travel, and what youre supposed to do for a living. Through most of my life I was trying to find peace, and it was actually in tragedy that I found the greatest clarity of my life.

Mr. Jekielek:

Please tell me about that.

Ms. Nomani:

It was a reality I could never have imagined in my life. I had become a reporter for the Wall Street Journal. I have been able to rise to the highest levels of journalism in the United States of America. In the summer of 1969, I had arrived as a girl who knew not a word of English. Then, at the age of 23, I got a job at the Wall Street Journal.

How? It was because I had been affirmed and celebrated in the classrooms in which I had grown up, and by a lovely teacher named Mrs. Alki in seventh grade who handed me and all our classmates little green journals. With it I would become a young writer. That was the America in which I was able to prosper. Then, all of a sudden on 9/11, I saw this collision course between the most extreme interpretation of my faith of Islam and America.

I got on a plane to Pakistan like so many journalists did, defying all the state department warnings. A colleague of mine also headed to Pakistan, a journalist by the name of Danny Pearl. Danny was a great friend from the newsroom in Washington, DC. We bonded over beach volleyball and he introduced me to American music. I learned how to go to open mic night with him in this neighborhood called Adams Morgan. Danny was just a great guy.

On January 23rd, 2002, he came to visit a home that I was renting in Karachi. He went off for an interview and he never came back. The men whom he was supposed to interview had set a trap for Danny. It was actually a kidnapping scheme and Danny was never to be seen again. He never came back. Instead, what we saw instead were these things that they call sign of life photographs.

The photographs had a gun to Dannys head. They had his hands in shackles. Literally, they held his humanity hostage, everything that was the beauty and joy that I knew of as Danny. Then, Jan, you know what we got? We got the ransom notes. First, they said that Danny was a spy for the United States. They used his American citizenship, and by proxy, him being white, to demonize him as a spy for the U.S.

A couple of days later, the local press reported that Danny was Jewish and that put a target on his back. He went from being a spy for the CIA to a spy for the Mossad Israeli Intelligence Agency. Danny was none of that. He was just a good guy who had learned to write using the pen for truth and justice in the world. In the weeks that followed, we learned that Danny had been slain, brutally beheaded.

That was the moment that I knew deep in my heart that we were in this war with this extremism. What was that extremism defined by? It was defined by sectarianism and it was defined by the most illiberal of ideas, which is that there is a hierarchy of human value in the world. Danny, because of being American, white, Jewish, and by being of Israeli ancestry, was now at the bottom of that hierarchy of human value.

Thats when I first confronted the fundamental idea of identity as a weapon to lay siege on not only the spirit and the soul, but also the body. Dannys identity was used to justify his being taken from this earth. Jan, that is when I really came to recognize those classical liberal values that had allowed me to be the strong woman that I had become in the United States of America, were values worth fighting for. My first terrain was within my Muslim community.

Mr. Jekielek:

Then, you became a Muslim reformer. In the process of doing that, you faced a lot of personal attacks. Youve done some amazing investigative work figuring out what actually happened to you as a Muslim reformer. I want to touch on that as well.

First, I want to jump into your work here in Fairfax County, Virginia, where we are now, and in nearby Loudoun County, where you became a parental rights advocate. It very much centers around this idea of identity that you just pointed out. Its the uniting issue.

Ms. Nomani:

Out of Pakistan, my niece likes to say I brought back a souvenir and that was a little baby. I found out in the days that we were trying to find Danny that I was pregnant with a boyfriend that didnt work out. But my parents embraced this new chapter in my life, welcomed me back to my hometown in West Virginia, and I brought this little baby into the world. I chose to raise him in America and brought him here to Virginia to go to the great public schools of Virginia.

There I believed that I could raise him with those same classical liberal values with which I had been raised and with which America had embraced me. He was a successful little boy. I became his Lego robotics coach and helped coach boys volleyball. It was here in this house that I worked with him on algebra, and we just had our own little life.

Then, we had the great success of my son being accepted into the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Like its name sounds, its for kids that are really smart in math and science, and entry was based on a merit admission back then. My son worked hard, and so did all the other kids. In the fall of 2017, he walked through the doors of the school. I became a PTA mom.

I learned that some of the most diverse communities in any school in the country were within those walls. We had sugar cane juice at the parent teacher meetings. We had biryani from India because the school student body is 70 percent Asian, 10 percent black, Hispanic and other identities, and 20 percent white. Of the white students, many of them are from Eastern European countries, children of immigrants who have fled communism.

Many of the Asian students are from India and from China. Many families had fled communism in China to create, just like my family, a new reality in the United States. Here we are, living a nice regular life. Then, the killing of George Floyd happens in the spring of 2020. All of a sudden there was a new race war launched, and guess what? Our kids at TJ were in the crosshairs.

On my birthday, June 7th, 2020, the principal of the school, Ann Bonitatibus, sent all of our families an email. I thought it was like my little birthday email, and I got it that night. But it was a scolding in which she said that families from such diverse backgrounds and with such stories of struggle coming to the United States needed to check our privileges. She said that we needed to change the racial demographic of the school, so that it would match the racial demographic of the county.

What is the racial demographic of the county? 20 percent is Asian, whereas, 70 percent of the school is Asian. We were the wrong kind of minority now. It was for 18 years then that I had been seeing this reality of identity politics inside my Muslim community, and a new identity politics emerging in the United States. Now all of a sudden, I was in the crosshairs, and so was my son and all these amazing families.

That summer I recognized really fast that the same type of identity politics that had targeted my friend Danny Pearl, had shifted to a new group in the United States; Asian families, immigrant families, and anybody who refused the narrative of this network that I call the woke army. A new fight began.

Mr. Jekielek:

You found yourself in the crosshairs. On the other hand, you jumped in and started working on it.

Ms. Nomani:

Honestly, Jan, I didnt even know the extent of it. Its like everything where you just jump into the deep end and you dont even know where the waters will take you. I didnt realize the abyss that it is. You can use so many metaphors. Its like jumping into quicksand, because it will suck you up. Its like going into these dark waters of poison and toxicity that will try to spit you out so hurt and so damaged.

But the lesson that I had learned from my years earlier fighting for Muslim reform was that you just have to stick to your core values, and you have to be unapologetic for what they are. That requires a lot of meditation and reflection so that you are always guided by those values and not any kind of negative objectives. Because those that oppose you will try so hard for you to abandon your values so that you will become like them. Thats a constant mental check every day.

Mr. Jekielek:

Theres an alliance of people with illiberal values. Please tell me, what is this woke army? It doesnt make sense that there would be such an alliance.

Ms. Nomani:

Yes. When you think about it seems contradictory. That is partly why this alliance is unholythey really contradict each others values. Half of this unholy alliance that I confronted is the Islamists, which describe those people in Islam who believe in political Islam, the Muslims who want theocracy, and people who believe in religious law as the law of the state.

Thats a very, very dangerous prescription for the secular democracies that we have. Its also a destructive order for any nation. Think of Iran, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia and how their regressive interpretations of Islam have become just inhumane forms of denying peoples human rights and civil rights.

These Islamists have now aligned with the Leftists in the United States and around the world. They manifest in so many different forms like socialists, communists, and even Antifa sometimes. They work together to undermine classical liberal values and the freedoms that we know in the United States.

Mr. Jekielek:

As we were preparing for this interview, I learned that this whole alliance was catalyzed to some extent by the Trump candidacy, and then the Trump presidency. Please explain this to me.

Ms. Nomani:

In the early days of the Muslim reform movement we were challenging the Islamists in the way that theyre interpreting the religion in mosques, in the political states, in the world like Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Youre going to just swoon at the idea of this, but I was glamourous, the hero of the month. That was what our liberal community embraced, where the values of womens rights challenged tyranny. It was a really fundamental idea that you think would be consistent all through the history of the United States.

But something really frightening happened. I noticed with the start of the Obama administration that the Islamists were now aligning with the Democratic Party, and they were entering into this unholy alliance of values. They actually do not believe in ideas like my body, my choice. They do not actually believe in equal rights or the kind of LGBTQ rights that the Democratic Party was embracing.

I saw that build up. I saw money start flowing into the Muslim organizations from traditionally liberal philanthropists. I wondered how they could justify it. I realized they were using race. What the Islamists had started to do was take this really complicated legal theory of critical race theory and declare that Muslims were a race, and you were being racist if you dared to criticize extremism within the faith.

What they developed for themselves in the war of ideas was a shield. That kept developing through both the Obama administrations. When the 2016 election was happening, that alliance first tried to defeat Donald Trump as president. When he won, on the night of the election, I saw the battle cry go out from the Islamist organizations for literally an overthrow of the government.

They were chanting the same chant that they had been chanting in Tahrir Square in Egypt to overthrow the Mubarak regime and bring in the Muslim Brotherhood. Concurrently, most people know that the Democrat groups and the far Left in the United States were rallying against Donald Trump. An activist named Linda Sarsour in Brooklyn put out the battle cry from the East coast, and rallied people to the streets of New York to join the resistance. Thats when The Resistance, was coined.

Donald Trump isnt even in office yet. He has simply been elected, but now the woke army has been galvanized to go into the streets. We all know what happened in the weeks and months that followed. Linda Sarsour became a leader of this new movement called the Womens March. It wasnt just a march for women, it was a march for women opposed to Donald Trump.

Who were they starting to exclude? They wanted to exclude Jewish feminist women from Israel. In this woke armies new order, there was a hierarchy of human value, and in their universe of intersectionalitythe new term that they were introducing to the political landscapeIsraeli feminists were at the bottom. Because to women like Linda Sarsour from the Muslim establishment, they were the colonizers, and they were the white supremacists.

Jan, it was just so obvious to me that this new network was now going to work to not only undermine Donald Trump, but also the freedoms that we know in the United States. Because they were now aligned with people with very illiberal ideas, with a vision for the world that is not one of equality and human rights. Thats when I really became aware of the threat that we were facing as a nation.

Mr. Jekielek:

What is the vision of the woke army?

Ms. Nomani:

The common vision as I can now see it unfolding on the political landscape and in our K-12 schools is multifold. There is this real hope to bring the sectarianism that divides a nation to our country. We can see it happening everywhere now. We see it from the workplace to K-12 schools. We see segregation and separation of people based on identity. Its so disheartening for me to see this, as a young girl who grew up in the United States where we had defeated those ideas. They want a dumbing down of the United States of America.

That is why they came after my sons school, where they were coming against the idea of meritocracy, including merit-based education and admission. We have seen that whittling away in our system with the absence now of advanced placement classes and honors classes. Theres a new concept called equitable grading, which is getting rid of Ds and Fs, because it makes kids feel bad.

There are concepts like equal outcomes for every child. They are bringing into their universe a dumbing down of the United States. Finally, the thing that I want to really emphasize is with my friend Danny, they slayed him. They took his body from this earth. What we also have to take seriously is the slaying of peoples spirits, and the demoralizing of human beings to the point that it is spiritual death. I dont say that lightly at all.

So many people feel helpless and hopeless against this woke army. They are living in fear of being canceled for what they say. They work in jobs where they sought to accomplish, and where they spent their entire lifetimes. Now, they live in almost intellectual prisons and spiritual prisons, because they are not self-expressing.

I know what it can mean to the soul to live in shame. In those months after my friend Dannys murder, as I lived with this reality of that murder and the prospect of bringing my son into the world as a single mother, I knew shame. I know how much of a dark shadow it can cast on our lives. It can plunge a person into depression and anxiety, and these are crises that were facing in the United States. It is a war on the spirit of America and Americans. I dont want to see that happen to a single child, let alone a human being.

Mr. Jekielek:

I want to clarify one thing. Initially, when you were talking about the people that killed Danny, you were talking about Islamic terrorists. Then, youre talking about the woke army in general, but its a leap to go from one to the other. People may say, Asra, youre conflating two very different things here. These people, maybe theyre misguided, but theyre going for social justice. But on the other hand, you have these violent extremists who decapitate people.

Ms. Nomani:

A lot of people have seen the ways that totalitarian regimes and tyranny ultimately do lay claim to peoples lives. We have the testimony of the parents from China who fled the Cultural Revolution as children. At that time, it started as ideas and then children had to turn their parents in. Parents were also cast as the enemy of the state. Lives were lost. We can see on the streets of our cities that people think they can lay siege on other human beings, sometimes because of their identity.

That kind of racial injustice was one that I thought we had rejected as a society. I thought we were all connected by the idea that nobody could be targeted because of their identity. But now, we see targeted assaults on Asian families and on immigrants, not by the far-Right, now as its so often cast, but by activists of the woke army. Im so impassioned about it, because I do know that violence happens only after you have embedded really divisive ideas in a society that pit people against each other.

Mr. Jekielek:

Do you have a chapter in your book about character assassination? This is something that you yourself experienced. You went on this journey with the help of a lawsuit to try to figure out who was behind this. Those are two things I want to explore.

Ms. Nomani:

I had been a young student of the art of propaganda as a master student at American University. I had actually studied it from a professor who had come to the United States from Iran who had witnessed the Iranian revolution. It was a propaganda that brought the Ayatollah Khomeini to power and brought this Islamist interpretation of Islam to power. I knew how propaganda can be used in the war of ideas, and then also be weaponized to slay enemies of the ideas that these character assassins are promoting in the world.

The first witness that I had of that was my friend Danny Pearl. Before Dannys killers slayed him, they waged a character assassination campaign on him; first as an American, then as a Jew, and then as a son of Israel. That was used to discredit him as a human being and to dehumanize Danny.

When I came back to the United States, I started challenging the interpretation of Islam that was used to dehumanize Danny. What did my enemies do? They started their campaign to dehumanize me, and they assigned all sorts of ulterior motives to my campaign. They turned the word Zionist into a slur and used that to discredit me.

I knew that character assassination has been used since the beginning of time against any political enemy to try to eliminate them. But the internet had allowed these assassins to be anonymous, just like you said. They wore masks and I didnt know who they were. In the summer of 2017, I learned that there had been an article published about me on an anonymous website called Loonwatch.com. It had been created literally on April Fools day 2009 to smoke out the so-called loons, who they called Islamophobic.

Who was in that category? None other than me. I, as a Muslim feminist, was declared Islamophobic, because I dared to challenge the sexism within my faith and the intolerance. Their new allegation was that Muslim reformers are funded by the government of Israel. That was enough for them to try to eliminate us as credible voices in our community.

In the larger narrative in the United States, I was going from a glamor hero to zero. I wondered, Okay, what is this? Who are they? I learned that in the U.S. you can file a John Doe complaint. Its a complaint of defamation that I was alleging against these anonymous character assassins.

Mr. Jekielek:

The defamation, to be clear, is that youre funded by Israel.

Ms. Nomani:

Yes.

Mr. Jekielek:

Its a falsehood, as I understand it.

Ms. Nomani:

Yes, exactly. Im an open book. I was ready to have them go through my bank accounts. I feared nothing in terms of disclosure. So, there I was. Here at my dining table, the same one where I taught my son math and reading and writing, I filed subpoena after subpoena against the platforms that are called internet service providers that gave voice to these people. Who are they? Folks like Facebook, Twitter, and places where they could have their anonymous identities.

There was one platform that a lot of people might have heard of called GoDaddy, where you can register a website. They had registered Loonwatch.com at GoDaddy. I sent off my little subpoena. The anonymous accounts have a certain number of days where they can fight your subpoena. They didnt fight it. One day, Jan, I got a thumb drive. In that thumb drive was all of the backend documentation for the people who held that account at Loonwatch.

It was every phone call they had made to the customer service office. It was every complaint that they had filed. I went through the hundreds of pages, and in the U.S. you got to pay with a credit card when you sign onto these subscriptions. There, I found that this character assassination campaign had been led, funded, and run by an organization called the Council on American-Islamic Relations [CAIR], an organization that touts itself as a civil rights organization for Muslims.

But what they had been doing for years, and what they continue to do, because Loonwatch continues to stay alive as a website, is run this domestic disinformation and character assassination campaign, not only against Muslim reformers, but also ex-Muslims, conservatives, the Republican Party, nations like Israel, India, and anybody who dares to challenge their Islamist interpretation of the Muslim faith.

Speaker 3:

We reached out to the Council on American Islamic Relations, CAIR, but did not immediately receive a response.

Ms. Nomani:

That was a really liberating day. You might wonder why should I bother? Why did I spend this time? Character assassination is a weapon of war. It was really important for me to understand who the combatants were in this situation. It led me to half of the woke army, because CAIR had now embedded itself in the Democratic Party, and in the far-Left and progressive organizations of the United States. They were now laying siege on America.

I put them in my book and I documented them, because I want people to read the book and see the blueprint for how the woke army works in the United States. I want to save readers the suffering that Ive experienced in order to learn these lessons. I also want folks to understand this tactic of character assassination is so often used to make you lose your own confidence about your value system, and to make you wonder and doubt yourself.

Because trust me, when they did this to me, there were many, many moments when I felt so just defeated. I put my pen aside, I was paralyzed. I couldnt write. There was one time when I remember laying in the fetal position on my bed. It was my mother, who is now 83, who stood at the frame of the door and said to me, Asra, you dont live in a village. You live in the United States of America. You do not have to live with shame.

I wiped away my tears and acted even in the face of my fear, because thats what Ive heard courage is. It doesnt mean that we dont feel fear. It doesnt mean that we arent scared, but we still act. Thats what I wanted people to really witness, because its those tactics of character assassination that are now being used against parents. I went from being called a Zionist as a slur, to now being a white supremacist.

Mr. Jekielek:

Ill jump in with one more, Islamophobe. You have certainly been called an Islamophobe, and youve been called many other things. How do you respond when people say this?

Ms. Nomani:

I thought about it, and I researched it. I looked at how the word had evolved over time, and then, I saw it was just another weapon of war for these Islamist nations. It was a term that had been created in the 1990s as some Muslim groups were looking at the dynamic of racism inside the UK. In 2005, after the 9/11 attacks, governments like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia were facing real economic consequences of the fact that extremists from within Islam had created tension for Muslims inside the West. They had to find a defense.

It was with this organization called the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, like a mini-UN for all the Muslim majority countries in the world. They decided that they were going to run a 10-year campaign waging a war on Islamophobia. They are the ones who weaponized it in order to then shield themselves from criticism for the way that they run their countries. What has that meant? When the Islamic state was merging, President Obama went to the microphone and said that there was no Islamic in Islamic state.

Barack Obama:

ISIL is not Islamic.

Ms. Nomani:

He had been duped by these Islamist countries and organizations into thinking that it would be racist to call out the Islamic state. Fast-forward to today, we now have an international day by the United Nations for fighting Islamophobia. It just was celebrated, because theyve institutionalized it as a way to keep any kind of criticism from their nation states. Qatar sponsored the World Cup, and they have had such a shoddy record of labor rights. It became Islamophobic to talk about those laborers that had been killed in the building of the stadiums.

It was something that I learned in the early days of the parent movement in fighting against any of the smears about us being racist. We have to be unapologetic in our values. To me, it became the most important strategy against those accusations and that character assassination. You have to lay your head to rest every night on your bed, and live with the values that you have, and the values that you practice every day.

If you know in your heart that you are motivated by these classical liberal values that align with the conservative values of equality and justice and individual rights, then you can withstand all of those smears, because theyre just used as weapons. Soft power can be more damaging and can weaken a nation and a people even more than bullets or bombs.

Mr. Jekielek:

Indeed. We just had an episode recently about the Chinese Communist Partys United Front Work Department, which is all about wielding soft power. It has had an incredible impact on the West, the U.S., and Canada. I dont blame this umbrella group of the different Muslim organizations for wanting to protect themselves, like in the wake of 9/11, which I observed myself.

In fact, I was quite concerned that people that look Middle Eastern or Muslim would be targeted in some way in a North America reeling from 9/11. I was motivated to try to help people who might find themselves in that situation back then. My point is, Islamophobia feels like a real word.

Ms. Nomani:

The term that should have been used, and that we should use to address the reality of this hate that does exist in the world is anti-Muslim hate. If somebody is hating on another human being because they are Muslim or look like theyre Muslim, then its anti-Muslim hate, just like if you were racist against somebody for any identity that they may have.

But what they were able to do in a very clever way was not only protect this very justifiable point that youre making against hate, they were also able to then create a shield for the very intolerant and illiberal ideology that they embrace. Thats the problem that I have with it. My solution is a really simple one that would have had a dual purpose of protecting Muslims from any kind of hate, but also eliminating the extremism that we absolutely have within the religion.

If they had as organizations owned up to the extremism from a place of challenging it, and then rejecting it and refusing it, we would have stood up for Muslims, which is what I have tried to do all the time. Because I remain a Muslim and fight for that interpretation of Islam that my parents raised me with. The problem is that many of these organizations have been propped up by those nations that have promoted this Islamist interpretation.

If we were to challenge the interpretation of Islam that believes in a theocracy, what would that mean? That would mean undermining the entire system of those nations. Its self-preservation. Even China, theyre coming up with a strategy to defend themselves and their system.

Everybody can understand why they would do that, because they dont want to self-destruct. But that doesnt mean we buy into it, and we definitely dont enable it, and we definitely dont participate in it. Im so glad that you brought up that nuance, because it doesnt have to be either or. We can fight that extremism, and we can stand up for Muslims against hate.

Mr. Jekielek:

The significant contingent of the woke army is deeply opposed to parental rights. They believe that some other entity should have the rights over the children. On the other hand, and Im not an expert on the issue of people who have very fundamentalist interpretations of Islam, they probably wouldnt be very happy with that. So, the woke army isnt entirely uniform here, is it?

Ms. Nomani:

Its in a collision course with itself, absolutely. The opportunity exists now in this parents issue to isolate parts of this woke army from itself. I see it happening in school districts, like in Detroit and in Minnesota where we have large Muslim communities, that exactly like you said, want to raise their kids, like most parents want to do. They dont want their child at the age of 10 to be able to keep secrets from them about their gender pronoun or which bathroom they want to enter, which the far-Left in the woke army is pushing in the United States right now.

Theyre also having this reflection about this unholy alliance in which they have now created an establishment, really. I think that we have to be careful. Those families that come out of the Islamist movement, they are not completely aligned with classical liberal values.

You dont want to compromise your own classical liberal values of equal rights and human rights and individual rights, no matter what position you may have. On issues of morality, we all agree that by the time a person is an adult, theyre allowed to make their personal decisions about marriage, and about how theyre going to live their lives following the laws of the land. Oftentimes, that becomes a clash.

Ill never forget how I jetted to Doha, Qatar, one time to debate somebody from the Islamist wing of the woke army, who was arguing that Muslim women are not allowed to marry anyone that they choose. I gave a valiant defense of the right of a Muslim woman to marry anyone that she wants to marry, and I won. My side won because the young women there in the audience voted. They wanted those same classical liberal values that we love and most people would like to practice in the world if they were allowed.

Mr. Jekielek:

Youre obviously a big advocate for free speech, and at the same time criticizing the interpretation of Section 230, or how its used. You feel like these platforms should be held accountable for the speech they allow. This is a big issue right now. Weve seen huge overreach on the side of the platforms and government in this area. Given everything weve seen with the Twitter Files, and the Missouri v. Biden exposures, which youre probably familiar with. Where do you stand now on the free speech platform censorship issue?

Ms. Nomani:

Yes, I am one hundred percent for free speech, but I also recognize that there are rights and responsibilities that come with free speech. Having been a journalist all my life, I learned very early on that journalists cannot engage in libel, and truth is the only and best defense for libel. Who is held responsible for the journalists work? The publishing company. What Section 230 does is to shield publishing platforms from any responsibility for the material and content thats published on their platforms.

When it comes to defamation or untruths, they have no responsibility. Publishing houses go through great lengths to make sure that they arent violating libel laws, or FCC laws and regulations. Those are really serious, and they cost a lot for a company to make sure that they have those guardrails.

In society, what I have seen firsthand, is that people have now weaponized Big Tech to launch these character assassinations on people. I dont think that they should be allowed to have a wild, wild west terrain on which to do it. Somebody has to be held responsible. It absolutely has to be the individuals.

Thats why if people do it anonymously, we have to allow the means to unmask them. Ive gone down to unmask folks and hold them personally responsible, but also the platforms should be held responsible for violations that weve established in law of limits on free speech, like defamation or inciting people to violence.

Obviously, the platforms have decided that theyre going to act not only as moderators and platforms, but also as publishing houses by censoring many conservative voices. Theyve taken their own liberty to deny certain people their free speech rights, but they take no responsibility. Thats what I really believe that tech giants have to be forced to do.

Because if we dont do it, then these platforms will continue to be used indiscriminately for the soft power objectives of foreign governments for domestic disinformation and domestic character assassination in ways that our courts and our laws do not protect the people, and really the United States of America.

The tyrants that are out there in the world that want to destabilize America will use all the freedoms that we allow against us. They now have willing participants in the U.S. who will do their dirty work for them. Its really important to stand up for those free speech rights that we have, and yet, not allow them to be weaponized against us.

Mr. Jekielek:

How do we deal with that? How do we deal with disinformation and propaganda that can be done at scale. Weve seen it can be done by foreign adversaries that seek to destroy our way of life, this classical liberal value system. Then, we see our own structures using the same means to basically get a population to believe something or behave a certain way. Its very hard to say that its okay in this instance or not okay in that instance. How do you actually solve that question? I dont actually know.

You can imagine a world where there are just battles of propaganda, and heres the kicker. The kicker is that some portion of us as a society are deeply susceptible to what I call the megaphone that manufactures perceived consensus in society. You can tell them to turn on a dime. These are highly educated people in many cases and well-intentioned.

Ms. Nomani:

And youre absolutely right that this is an operation that happens within our own nation. Matt Taibbi testified in Congress at a committee called the Weaponization of the Government Against the People. Thats basically what you could call the committee. I saw firsthand the memo by the National School Board Association telling the Biden administration that they needed to act against these acts of domestic terrorism happening at school board meetings. Days later, it was here in this room that I saw the Attorney General of the United States of America declare that he was going to sick the FBI on parents like me.

Just imagine what was going on in my head. I have literally gone to Guantanamo Bay to chase terrorists. I have chased terrorists around the world. Here in Northern Virginia, we have parents working for the U.S. intelligence agencies, the U.S. military, and law enforcementjust imagine these people of good conscience now having the federal government making them the enemy.

Thats why I got in my car and I went to the local Walmart and I got these letters and I put them on these scrubs that I bought, and declared, I am a mom, not a domestic terrorist. In my kitchen, I just posted a video unapologetic about this phenomenon. The government turned on us so quickly and so fast. It was only us refusing that narrative and that propaganda and that character assassination unapologetically. We have now been able to expose them, defeat that effort, and stand up to them. We are now defining the election issue of the presidential race in 2024.

We have made education and parent rights a number one issue. These guys were just such fools in trying to take us on. If anybody has been a parent, they know that your kid can just put a knife in your heart by just saying something like, Mom, youre such a loser.

You think, Oh my gosh, how did I go from being a mom to a loser? Calling us domestic terrorists, white supremacists, and QAnon moms is nothing compared to the gentle barb that a child puts in your heart. The debate on the propaganda, on everything from issues of health and vaccines and masks to education and economic policy, will be in every sphere.

The greatest duty we have as citizens of not only this country, but this world, is to think through what we are being told. Keep being a Nancy Drew on information, and ask, Where is this coming from? Whats the source? Whats the footnote? Whats this? Whos that? Who funded what?

Learn your 990 IRS statement in order to investigate who funds a nonprofit that puts out a campaign trying to convince you of this or that. Thats our duty, because soft power is the easiest way to dismantle a nation, and to capture the hearts and minds of people. It can happen from within, and it can happen from external forces. We have a duty to not be captive to it, as best we can.

Mr. Jekielek:

How do we deal with this idea of disinformation? Because we dont want someone here in this country deciding for us whats disinformation and what isnt. At the same time, we have massive disinformation campaigns being waged upon us by these foreign actors.

Ms. Nomani:

And domestic actors.

Mr. Jekielek:

Right.

Ms. Nomani:

Yes.

Mr. Jekielek:

These efforts are sustained. You can have the CCP putting billions of dollars towards pushing disinformation messaging. How do you deal with that? Do you just let it happen? No. You have to have some kind of way to deal with that. But then, how can we make sure that that same system isnt used against the American population? As weve learned, its precisely those kinds of systems that have been created for foreign intelligence work that are now being used on Americans.

Ms. Nomani:

What I would ideally like in any kind of situation is that you have a war of ideas, that actually ends up being a war of ideas that doesnt actually target human beings as character assassination campaigns do. Unfortunately, thats a tactic of it, because in the war of ideas, if you can discredit human beings, you think youve won in that battle.

Mr. Jekielek:

Asra Nomani, its such a pleasure to have you on.

Ms. Nomani:

Thank you so much, Jan. Im so honored to be here, and I wish for moral courage for everyone.

Mr. Jekielek:

Thank you all for joining Asra Nomani and me on this episode of American Thought Leaders. Im your host, Jan Jekielek.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Biden Admin Takes Aim at Dishwashers to Tackle Climate Crisis After Gas Stove Clampdown

Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm takes questions during a media briefing at the White House in Washington, on Nov. 23, 2021. (Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters)

After taking aim at gas stoves as a way to cut greenhouse gases, the Biden administration has turned its attention to other home appliances, with dishwashers now in its crosshairs.

The Department of Energy (DOE) on May 5 proposed congressionally mandated standards for new dishwashers that promise to lower costs while reducing the amount of carbon being emitted into the atmosphere.

This Administration is using all of the tools at our disposal to save Americans money while promoting innovations that will reduce carbon pollution and combat the climate crisis, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said in a statement.

The proposed rulemaking (pdf), published in the Federal Register, seeks to impose separate new efficiency standards for power and water usage for standard-size and compact dishwashers during their regular cycles.

The proposal seeks to cut energy use by 27 percent and water use by 34 percent in new conventional household dishwashers made in the United States or imported into the country, starting three years after the publication of the final rule.

This means that the maximum estimated annual energy use for standard-sized dishwashers would be 223 kWh/year and the maximum per-cycle water consumption would be 3.3 gallons.

Samsungs Chef Collection dishwasher is displayed at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center for the 2015 International CES in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Jan. 5, 2015. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Compact dishwasher models would, under the proposed rulemaking, see a 22 percent reduction in power use and an 11 percent lower water usage. Specifically, this would mean that compact dishwasher models made in or imported into the United States would have a maximum annual energy use of 174 kWh/year and maximum water consumption of 3.1 gallons.

If the new rules are adopted within the DOEs suggested timeframe, they would come into effect in 2027. The agency estimated that the new rules would save consumers nearly $3 billion in utility bills over 30 years.

Carbon dioxide emissions over the time period in question would be cut by about 12.5 million metric tons, which is roughly the combined annual emissions of 1.6 million homes, while saving about 240 billion gallons of water.

The dishwasher rule comes alongside new requirements for electric motors and beverage vending machines, which the DOE stated would reduce carbon emissions by an additional combined 94.7 million metric tons over 30 years.

The proposed standards represent the toughest clampdown on dishwasher efficiency standards in a decade and come as the Biden administration has set its sights on boosting efficiency and reducing emissions of various household appliances in the name of fighting climate change.

The DOE stated that it will hold an online hearing on the proposed rules on June 8, while opening the proposal for public comment.

The Biden administrations move stands in contrast to then-President Donald Trumps approach to household appliance efficiency standards.

Trump criticized the push to raise efficiency requirements, arguing that they made some appliances work less effectively and so were counterproductive as they forced people to flush toilets more or run dishwashers repeatedly to get the same result.

Gas Stove Ban

As part of its quest for greater energy efficiency in the name of fighting climate change, the Biden administration has also taken aim at gas stoves.

The DOE on Feb. 1 proposed a rule that could effectively take many gas stoves off the market.

That proposal came several weeks after a commissioner with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Richard Trumka Jr., told Bloomberg that a ban on gas stoves was on the table.

The CPSCs chair, Alexander Hoehn-Saric, would later walk back Trumkas comment by insisting that the agency is not looking to ban gas stoves, and Granholm said that the notion of banning gas stoves was just not true.

Granholm did acknowledge, however, that the proposal would affect about half of the gas stoves on the market.

A gas flame burns under a pot on a gas stove top. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

Members of the gas appliance industry have criticized the proposal.

We are concerned that this is another attempt by the federal government to use regulations to remove viable and efficient natural gas products from the market, American Gas Association President Karen Harbert told Bloomberg.

This approach by DOE could effectively ban gas appliances, said Jill Notini, with the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. We are concerned this approach could eliminate fully featured gas products.

Meanwhile, Republican members of Congress have proposed legislation to preemptively block any proposed rules to ban or heavily restrict gas appliances.

Two Republican House representatives and members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee have proposed two pieces of legislation to this effect: the Save Our Gas Stoves Act (pdf) and the Gas Stove Protection and Freedom Act (pdf).

President [Joe] Biden and the radical left want to use the federal governments power to dictate what kind of car you can drive, how you can heat your home and business, and now how youre allowed to cook food for your family, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.), chair of the House Energy Committee, said in a statement.

Natural gas is a safe, reliable and affordable energy source for millions of Americans, she said.

The two pieces of legislation would prohibit the CPSC from using federal funding to implement any regulation that would classify gas stoves as a prohibited dangerous product.

The bills also prohibit the CPSC from enforcing any consumer product safety standards that would ban the use of gas stoves outright.

Our bill makes it clear that Americans should decide if a gas stove is right for their families, not the federal government, House Energy Committee Vice Chair Kelly Armstrong (R-N.D.) said in a statement.

Meanwhile, New York recently became the first state in the country to ban natural gas stoves after the state Legislature approved a new budget that includes a prohibition of fossil fuel equipment in new buildings under seven stories by 2026 and by 2029 in taller ones, effectively requiring all-electric heating and cooking.

There are exemptions for places such as hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and restaurants.

Republican leaders in the state Senate criticized the measure, arguing that it would drive up utility bills and housing costs.

Senate Republican leader Rob Ortt (R-N.Y.) said in a statement that it ignores the priorities of New York residents.

A first-in-the-nation, unconstitutional ban on natural gas hookups in new construction will drive up utility bills and increase housing costs, he said.

New York City approved its own ban on fossil fuels in new buildings in 2022, seeking to eliminate natural gas hookups along a faster timeline than the newly passed budget deal.

A study from RMI found that the combined all-electric building laws in New York City and the state would jointly save an additional 4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2040, equivalent to keeping 870,000 cars off the road for a year.
Biden Would Veto Border Security Bill If Congress Passes It: White House

President Joe Biden speaks at the White House in Washington on May 1, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)

President Joe Biden would veto legislation thats aimed at improving border security if a House Republican-led measure is approved by Congress, the White House said on May 8.

The Secure the Border Act of 2023, or H.R.2, would require construction on the U.S.Mexico border wall to resume, impose a minimum level of U.S. Border Patrol agents, and require a plan to enhance border security.

If enacted, the proposal would provide real, thoughtful solutions to restore order at the southwest border, enhance our national security, and most importantly, protect unaccompanied minorssomething that the administration has refused to acknowledge and failed to act upon, said Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), a co-sponsor along with Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.)

Biden, however, wont hesitate to veto the bill if its sent to his desk, the White House Office of Management and Budget said in a statement.

Border Patrol agents take into custody several illegal immigrants who were being smuggled from the U.S.Mexico border to San Antonio, in Brackettville, Texas, on Aug. 26, 2022. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

The bill does nothing to address the root causes of migration, reduces humanitarian protections, and restricts lawful pathways, which are critical alternatives to unlawful entry, the White House said.

Republicans control the House, enabling them to approve the bill with no Democrat support. However, Democrats hold a 5149 majority in the Senate.

Even with support from some Democrats, it would be difficult to overcome a veto, which requires a two-thirds vote in each chamber. Congress has only overruled two vetoes since 2008.

Presidential Vetoes

Historically, some presidents have rarely vetoed while in power; others have vetoed hundreds of bills.

Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, for instance, vetoed zero bills, according to The American Presidency Project at the University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt vetoed 635 while President Grover Cleveland vetoed 414.

In recent years, Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama each only vetoed 12 bills despite serving two full terms, and President Donald Trump vetoed 10 bills across four years in office.

Biden vetoed no bills in the 177th Congress, in which Democrats controlled both legislative chambers.

He has already issued two vetoes since Republicans gained control of the House in Januaryone on water regulation, the other on an investment ruleand the House failed to override either of them.

Overall, presidents have used the veto power 2,586 times. Just 112 vetoes have been overridden.

Vetoes are laid out in the U.S. Constitution.

A president can return the bill to Congress or, if Congress is on break, decline to act on a bill without returning it to lawmakers. The latter is known as a pocket veto.

Normally, presidential inaction on an approved piece of legislation for 10 days means a bill becomes law.

Whats in the Bill

The 213-page bill requires the Biden administration to, within seven days after the bill is enacted, resume border wall construction projects that were underway or being planned for prior to Jan. 20, 2021, the day Biden took office.

It also requires that once a yearuntil the border wall construction has been completeda plan for finishing the wall, including cost estimates.

The bill would also stipulate that at least 900 miles of the border be covered by a wall.

Another required plan would include an analysis of security risks both at and between ports of entry at the northern and southern borders and identification of technology that could be acquired to address the risks.

The technology program is estimated to cost at least $100 million.

In a bid to keep and attract new workers, the bill would authorize the appropriation of $100 million to provide retention bonuses to some border agents and require officials to have at least 22,000 full-time agents.

Other parts of the bill require officials to publish information about how many illegal aliens are encountered at the borders; mandating that border agents have real-time access to criminal history databases operated by countries from which immigrants come to the United States; the collection of biometric data from some immigrants; a prohibition on COVID-19 vaccine mandates for Department of Homeland Security employees; and requiring employers use the e-Verify system to make sure people they hire can legally work in the United States.

President Bidens open-border policy is a national security and humanitarian crisis, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said when the bill was introduced.

Thats why Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart and Tom McClintock introduced H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act, which would restore sanity, safety, and security at our borders.

McCarthy has promised a vote on the legislation.

Republican leaders told news outlets the vote is planned for May 11. Thats the same day the COVID-19 public health emergency expires, ending Title 42a policy imposed in 2020 that lets agents quickly expel some illegal immigrants because they may be carrying COVID-19.

Illegal immigrant crossings are expected to spike with the change in policy, prompting Biden to order troops to the border.

Democrat Opposition

The White House said a successful strategy to deal with the border includes multiple prongs, including robust enforcement at the border of illegal crossings, deterrence to discourage illegal immigration, and legal pathways to ensure that those in need of protection are not turned away to face death or serious harm.

The bill would cut off nearly all access to humanitarian protections in ways that are inconsistent with our nations values and international obligations, the White House said, in addition to barring the use of the Customs and Border Protection application to process noncitizens who are granted parole and cutting funding for some programs.

While we welcome Congress engagement on meaningful steps to address immigration and the challenges at the border, this bill would make things worse, not better. Because this bill does very little to actually increase border security while doing a great deal to trample on the nations core values and international obligations, it should be rejected, the White House said.

If the president were presented with H.R. 2, he would veto it.

Diaz-Balart said in response: The Biden Admins threat to veto the Border Security Act, while 300 Americans die of fentanyl poisoning each day, hundreds of migrants die at the hands of narcoterrorist cartels, children and women are trafficked, abused, and exploited, dozens on the terrorist watchlist enter our country, and amid the worst border crisis in the history of the United States, would be comical if it wasnt deathly irresponsible.
EXCLUSIVE: British Universities Accepted 30 Million From Blacklisted Chinese 5G Giant Huawei

Company is biggest China-based donor of higher education institutions in the UK, documents reveal

Blacklisted technology company Huawei has plunged at least 30 million pounds ($37.9 million) into British universities via research grants and donations.

The telecom giantdeemed a national security threat by the U.S. governmentis the biggest China-based donor to higher educational institutions in the UK.

Over the past four years, Huawei and its advanced chip-producing company HiSilicon spent millions of pounds financing expert-led information, technology, and communications projects.

One university received 10.7 million pounds ($13.5 million) in grants since 2017.

The funding has once again sparked concern from critics who say the Beijing bankrolling is putting universities and the cities where theyre based at risk of huge damage.

The revelations come just days after one of Canadas leading universities said it was cutting ties with Huawei.

The University of Waterloo stated that it would no longer work with the Chinese tech giant after its contract runs out this year to safeguard scientific research at the school, according to Charmaine Dean, the universitys vice-president for research.

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service previously warned Canadian academic institutions that research partnerships can be vehicles for espionage, compromising intellectual property and allowing technological advancements to fall into the hands of the Chinese or other regimes.

Dean said in a statement that ending the universitys partnership with Huawei will leave a gap in research funding that she hopes Canadian businesses and the government will help fill.

AI and Cloud Research

The 30 million pounds ($37.9 million) of university funding from the telecoms company has been gathered from analysis by The Epoch Times.

Freedom of Information (FOI) requests sent to more than 160 education institutions show that many were taking money from Huawei and its other blacklisted subsidiaries, as well as other Beijing companies accused of crime and human rights abuses.

Of all the British institutions that responded to questions about the sources of their funding, almost all had received grants or donations from Huawei or its companies.

A general view of the London School of Economics and Political Science on April 15, 2013. (Oli Scarff/Getty Images)

Some universitiesincluding the London School of Economicsrefused to answer questions about their Beijing cash sources, meaning that the multi-million-pound figure is likely to be significantly higher.

Of those that did respond, the University of Edinburgh confirmed it has received 10,798,369 pounds ($13.6 million) in research grants from the 5G giant.

From 2017 to 2022, the Scottish university has been relying on Huawei for financial support toward tech projects carried out by its School of Informatics.

Last year, Huawei Technologies provided a grant for research collaboration in cloud-based service assurance. The university would only state that the funding fell between 200,001 pounds ($252,397) and 450,000 pounds ($567,900).

That same year, it received a further 222,257 pounds ($280,500) for advanced research in the area of computer operating systems.

In 2020, Edinburgh accepted a 4.2 million pound ($5.3 million) cash boost from Huawei for its Distributed Data Management and Processing Laboratory.

The tech company has also funded multiple studentships and doctorate students for research in similar fields.

The Imperial College of London, which specialises in science, engineering, medicine, and business, was awarded 18,380,012 pounds ($23.2 million) from China sources between 2018 and 2022.

Huawei is listed as one of the 20 Beijing-linked organisations putting forward huge cash sums toward research projects.

According to FOI documents, 16 of the universitys projects were funded by the telecom company in those years.

They included research on big data machine learning, robust articulated hand-tracking algorithms, and secure channel coding.

Huewai also donated unknown sums toward Imperial Colleges Academic Salon in Intelligent Communications, AI workshops and seminars, and projects in next-generation data centres.

As previously revealed by The Epoch Times, the London university also received cash from China National Offshore Oil Corporationa state-owned oil company accused in the past of having drug-trafficking ties and carrying out human rights abuses in Burma.

The company is also said to have collaborated with the Chinese Communist Party to send employees who practice Falun Gong to labour camps and mind-control facilities unless they renounce their beliefs.

The logo of Chinese company Huawei at its main UK offices in London on Jan. 28, 2020. (Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP via Getty Images)

National Security Threat

Two of the UKs most esteemed universities, Cambridge and Oxford, also received significant funding from Huewai.

Over the past four years, the University of Cambridge has pocketed 2.6 million pounds ($3.3 million) in research grants.

It also accepted an estimated 10 million pounds ($12.6 million) in donations from the telecom company, according to FOI documents.

Of those, seven donations fall between 100,000 pounds ($126,206) to 499,000 pounds ($629,770), five between 500,000 pounds ($631,082) to 999,000 pounds ($1.26 million), and one between 1.2 million pounds ($1.51 million) to 4.9 million pounds ($6.2 million).

Cambridge stated that those donations went toward computer science, student support, engineering, and millennium mathematics.

The University of Oxford received funding for only one research grant from Huawei in 2018: a cash sum between 100,000 pounds ($126,206) and 249,000 pounds ($314,267) for a project on AI robustness.

Multiple other universities received smaller but significant donations from Huawei or HiSilicon.

They include the University of Reading, which in 2021 signed a 50,000-pound ($63,106) research agreement to identify the key factors that impacted the 5G programme of Huawei in the UK.

In 2022, the UK government ordered that Huawei technology had to be removed from all 5G public networks by the end of 2027.

The UK ban on Huawei in 5G followed guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre that the security of the companys productssuch as equipment used at phone mast sites and telephone exchangescan no longer be managed owing to the impact of U.S. sanctions.

The firm was listed as a national security threat in 2020, with U.S. companies being banned from using subsidies to buy its equipment.

The U.S. House Intelligence Committee previously warned that Huaweis telecommunications equipment could be used by the Chinese regime to spy on U.S. citizens.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping (L) wears 3D glasses as hes shown a demonstration of medical equipment during a Hamlyn Centre for Robotic Surgery presentation at Imperial College London on Oct. 21, 2015. (Anthony Devlin/AFP via Getty Images)

Huge Risk

Mark Sabah, UK and European Union director of The Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, said universities have put themselves at huge risk by accepting just vast amounts of funding from sources such as Huawei.

The sheer volume of investment by Chinese companies, which all have ties to the Chinese Communist Party, exposes the risk that British universities have should the government ever choose to enforce who and where donations can come from, he told The Epoch Times.

Its a high-risk strategy by universities and one that could do a huge amount of damage to the higher education sector, as well as to British cities in general.

Because if universities started losing money and students, they have not made sufficient plans to mitigate the risk of those investments.

Sabah said the tech giant has not only invested millions in British universities but also other projects, including an attempt to run the UKs 5G network.

The government rightly stopped that happening due to massive opposition, he said.

The next step is to be questioning who is giving money to our higher education institutions, why they are giving money in such numbers, and are those universities putting in place a risk mitigation plan should that funding ever be withdrawn?
California Taiwanese Community Calls on US Government to Support Taiwans WHA Participation

Since 2017, Taiwan has been excluded from world health governing body

At a joint press conference on May 6, Taiwanese organizations in Northern California urged more support from the U.S. government, to push WHO to allow Taiwan to participate in the WHA. (Nathan Su/The Epoch Times)

MILPITAS, Calif.Several Taiwanese organizations held a joint press conference Saturday to raise awareness of the Chinese regimes continued effort to block Taiwan from attending the upcoming World Health Assembly (WHA).

The 76th WHA will be held in Geneva, Switzerland from May 2130. Once again, Taiwan did not receive an invitation.

Li Hangwen, the main organizer of the May 6 event, urged the U.S. government to push the World Health Organization (WHO) to allow Taiwan to participate in the WHA. Li is the coordinator for the Northern California South Bay Taiwanese Overseas Communities. The WHA is WHOs decision-making body.

Since 2017, the WHA has excluded Taiwan from its operations, siding with Beijings One China stance, which claims that Taiwan is a part of China, giving the communist regime the right to represent Taiwan at the international health body. As a result, Taiwan has had no access to the health-related information and benefits that WHO strives to give everyone, everywhere, according to its website.

Li stressed that Taiwan, also known as the Republic of China, was one of the founding members of the United Nations. WHO is an agency of the United Nations.

Scott Lai is the director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco. At the press conference, he addressed Taiwans qualifications for participation in the WHA.

First of all, Lai said, Taiwan has 23 million people and about 14,000 square miles of land, making it one of the worlds most densely populated countries.

Further, Taiwans GDP per capita was almost $34,000 in 2023, according to the International Monetary Fund, among the worlds highest, while its GDP was almost $900 billion, number 18 in the world.

Taiwans economic freedom and competitiveness are ranked among the highest in the world. Known for its information and communication technology industry, the island country boasts some of the worlds top semiconductor manufacturers.

Lai asserted that excluding Taiwan from the WHA is not only unfair to Taiwan, but a disadvantage to the rest of the world. He noted that every year more than 70 million people travel in and out of Taiwan. Blocking Taiwans participation in the WHA, therefore, leaves a large hole in international pandemic prevention efforts, he said.

Significantly, he said, Taiwans healthcare system was ranked number one in the world on Numbeos 2023 global healthcare index.

Among its contributions to global public healthcare, it has sent medical teams to Ukraine and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland); in addition, it has helped train more than 2,000 foreign medical professionals over the past two decades.

Health is a universal value, and health is a basic right, said Zhuang Yashu, director of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in San Francisco. No countries should be excluded from the WHA, Zhuang said.

Zhou Xinjie, the president of the South East Bay Taiwanese Association of Northern California, criticized Beijings leaders for supporting Russias invasion of Ukraine while asserting dominance over Taiwan. Taiwan needs to work with the worlds democratic countries to fight for basic rights, he said.
Canada Declares Chinese Diplomat Persona Non Grata Over Threat to MPs Family

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly speaks to reporters in the foyer of the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on March 27, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)

Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei, who has reportedly been involved in targeting Conservative MP Michael Chong and threatening his family members in Hong Kong, has been declared persona non grata by Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly.

I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home, Joly said in a statement on May 8.

Joly said the decision has been made after a careful consideration of all factors at play.

The minister told the House of Commons foreign affairs committee on May 4 that her department was assessing the consequences of taking such as step, particularly in light of previous actions by Beijing in the case of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou.

In retaliation for Canada honouring its legal obligation to the United States by keeping Meng, who was being accused of fraud, under house arrest, the Chinese regime arbitrarily detained Canadian citizens Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor for over 1,000 days, from December 2018 to September 2021.

Joly also told the committee on May 4 that Global Affairs Canada summoned Chinese ambassador Cong Peiwu over MP Chongs case.

In a statement issued in response to Jolys decision on May 8, the Chinese Embassy insinuated that it would retaliate against provocations and that Beijing would play along every step of the way until the very end.

The Globe and Mail reported on May 1 that, according to a national security source, a Chinese spy service and Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei had targeted MP Chong in 2021 for his advocacy for human rights in China.

Zhao, a consular officer in Toronto, had been described by a national security source as a suspected intelligence actor in an earlier Globe report published on Feb. 13.

Analysis conducted by The Epoch Times shows Zhaos active participation in functions held by local organizations in Canada that share Beijings stances. Also in attendance were elected officials implicated in foreign interference scandals by national security leaks in the media.

Chong and his party have pressed the Liberal government in recent days to expel Zhao, and passed a motion in the House of Commons to that effect on May 8, with support from the NDP and the Bloc Quebecois.

CSIS Assessment

Along with the government assessing the consequences of expelling Zhao, the federal government spent last week attempting to determine who knew what and when regarding the Chinese regimes threats to MPs.

The Globes May 1 article cited a 2021 assessment produced by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) on Chinese interference in Canada. It said that one of the Peoples Republic of Chinas spy services, the Ministry of State Security (MSS), had taken specific actions to target Canadian MPs.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau initially said he was never briefed on this information, that he had first learned about the issue from the media on May 1, and that the assessment had never left CSIS.

This was later contradicted when it was learned that the assessment had circulated outside CSIS, including at the Privy Council Office (PCO), which is the prime ministers department.

National Security and Intelligence Advisor Jody Thomas told MP Chong that her office, which sits within the PCO, had received the report.

Thomas was not in the role at the time, but one of her predecessors says he had not seen the assessment.

Vincent Rigby, who left the position on June 30, 2021, told The Globe and Mail he had also not seen the CSIS assessment.

The PCO told The Epoch Times that Mike MacDonald, who was acting in the position from July 6 to Aug. 3, had not seen the document.

Mr. MacDonald does not recall having seen any material regarding threats to MPs during this time. As a result, no material describing any such threats was briefed, said PCO spokesperson Pierre-Alain Bujold in an email.

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, who was not in the role at the time, said on May 6 that its a serious issue that CSIS didnt brief Trudeau or his own predecessor Bill Blair directly on the matter.

Trudeau told reporters on May 3 that going forward, CSIS would need to brief the government about threats to MPs even if the information doesnt meet a certain threshold.

He was asked on May 7 whether he had received new information on the issue since giving that directive.

I wouldnt want to mislead you and suggest that in recent years I havent been advised about concerns or issues involving MPs  related to foreign interference, the PM said in French on May 7 while in London for King Charles IIIs coronation.
High school senior Josh Alexander, 17, wont graduate this year. The Ontario student was suspended after protesting transgender bathrooms in St. Josephs Catholic High School and hasnt attended class since Februarynot since police escorted him out of the building for trespassing.

The teen was on Tucker Carlson a few weeks back and has made the rounds to rally public support, accusing Renfrew County Catholic District School Board, principal Derek Lennox, and two teachers of religious discrimination.

Alexander has teamed up with Liberty Coalition Canada (LCC) and recently launched a Human Rights Tribunal complaint citing said charge, though that could take time to get off the ground.

Theyve also been awaiting a court decision that could reverse his suspension, but that was just shelved until June.

Despite delayshe wont receive his diploma this yearAlexander remains stoic. Its obviously a bit of a blow, he told The Epoch Times. But at the same time, I think weve been fairly successful in getting the message out there and inspiring other youth to stand up for what they believe in.

St. Josephs Catholic High School in Renfrew County, Ontario. (Screenshot/Google Maps); (Inset) Josh Alexander (Courtesy of Josh Alexander).

It was Alexanders own standing up that drew the ire of St. Josephs principal, Lennox, when the teen organized the student walkout on Nov. 25, in protest of the schools bathroom policy. That discord was punctuated by previous class discussions, in which he argued there were only two genders.

The topic came up in class one time, and I stated my opinion on it. And I quoted some scripture to back it, he said. Students have the right to identify as they wish, but that doesnt change their biology or the reality that they are, in fact, still the gender that they were born in. That was considered quite controversial and became a heated topic.

Accused of bullying classmates, he insists the discussion was fairly respectful until one class where there was shouting. He claims he was called a misogynist, a racist, and a homophobic transphobe, and that teachers encouraged, and even joined in, ridiculing and parading him.

Two teachers were encouraging male breastfeeding and defending it saying it was natural, he said, adding that he was often debating directly with the teachers rather than students.

A banner rallying support for a school walkout on Nov. 25, which Josh Alexander organized. (Courtesy of Josh Alexander)

The situation escalated when the matter of bathrooms was brought before Principal Lennox. When he refused to hear Alexanders concerns, which originated from two female students, the teen organized the walkout; he was suspended two days before the date though it went ahead anyway. Several dozen students participated, while a larger crowd of about 100 counterprotesters and union members were bussed in from Ottawa.

Ultimately, the dispute culminated in Alexanders arrest. Around Christmas, he was welcomed back by the school though he was barred from attending two classes, math and religion, and from speaking to certain students. The school felt his presence was detrimental to the physical and mental well-being of certain pupils, the teen said.

Consulting his lawyer, they informed the school he would not abide by the terms. Nor would he abide by the subsequent exclusionary order and second suspension that came as a result. I disregarded the order. I felt it was completely discriminatory and unlawful, he said. It was at that point at beginning of the semester that I felt, by complying with an exclusion order Id be condoning it.

Alexander attended his classes, sure enough. And sure enough, the Ontario Provincial Police arrested him on a charge of trespassing.

Josh Alexander being arrested at St. Joseph Catholic High School in Renfrew County, Ontario, on Feb. 6, 2023. (Courtesy of Josh Alexander)

The exclusionary order is still in effect.

After teaming up with LCC, following the boards process, he appealed the suspension. The board refused to hear it, arguing that the teen is under parental control and therefore ineligible. Although his lawyer cites affidavit evidence of Joshs withdrawal from parental control, he says the board simply chose to ignore it.

In a letter last month, LCC announced that they had brought the matter to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (OSCJ) and filed an application to compel the board to hear Alexanders appeal. OSCJs decision was anticipated on April 27. Now the court has been adjourned until June 5. Alexander would not be reinstated at St. Josephs. Not yet.

He nevertheless finds solace in his beliefs. He wouldnt have it any other way. I think its important that no matter the age, people stick to their values, represent them even in the face of controversy, he said. I think its been worth it. I wouldnt change a thing.

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
China Is Becoming a Black Box Under New CCP Rules

Commentary

A slew of new policies, coupled with vastly changed behavior, is cutting the world off from vital information about what is happening in China, our ability to understand the reality inside the black box that China is becoming, and our ability to engage with it.

Recent news of raids on the offices of not one or two, but three foreign companies, all involved in performing corporate due diligence, has shaken the business world. Such companies essentially inspect that Chinese firms are doing what they say they are doing, are owned by the people they claim they are owned by, and that their financials arent made up of fairy tales. Its a vital and, frankly, very basic type of business integral to companies worldwide.

Over the past few years, and rapidly accelerating alongside Chinas supposed opening up after ending the zero-COVID policy, key materials, databases, and even some government websites have become inaccessible to users outside mainland China.

For those working with, for example, criminal justice issues, this shutdown of vital resources started a few years ago. But this reality is now hitting the wider business and even academic communities. Yet, within the world of corporate due diligence, the signs were on the wall years ago.

In fact, some six or seven years ago, I met up with an old friend who works in this particular field at one of the worlds premier corporate due diligence companies. He matter-of-factly made clear there was a growing hesitancy to visit the mainland, even for Hong Kong-based groups, but also, more interestingly, that such visits were becoming useless. Earlier, trips to visit and meet with local and provincial government officials and state-owned enterprise leaders were regular and often frank and useful, despite a need to be skeptical of what was being said.

Now, he said, such meetings had become futile, as every official and business leader simply parroted whatever empty statement Xi Jinping had issued on the subject and refused, no matter what, to discuss realities. Fear, he thought, was the reason why almost no one could carry out a basic conversation anymorefear of becoming a target for any perceived, however small, violation of Xis ever tighter control over what could and could not be said.

Cutting off information to China for foreign audiences is, in a way, a reversal of the prior policy related to the great firewall. This famous system for blocking access to information is, of course, intended to ensure that people inside China cant access information outside the country unless such information conforms to Beijings policies. Now, on the other hand, numerous steps are being taken to achieve the reverse, to ensure that those outside China cant access information inside of it.

For those working in the human rights field, this is already posing a major problem. In fact, many of the biggest revelations on human rights abuses in China have come from being able to access and analyze information from the central government and use it as evidence for wide-ranging human rights violations and changes in government behavior.

For example, take Chinas feared system for enforced disappearances of critics, the RSDL (residential surveillance at a designated location) system. Its only by using the Supreme Court-run database that is (supposed to) host all criminal verdicts that Safeguard Defenders has been able to provide macro-level data as evidence for the systems growth and the massive scale it is now employed on. Similar types of macro-level data on the prosecution of freedom of speech-related crimes, or more recently, on its expanding use of exit bans, have relied on the same database.

Likewise, each year, government organs work reports presented to Chinas rubber-stamp legislature, the National Peoples Congress, are getting sparser and sparser in the information they contain. Likewise, ministries and Party organs are releasing fewer data in their reports and statements.

Not long ago, Safeguard Defenders could reveal the expansion of Chinas Fox Hunt program to hunt down targets abroad and bring them back to China, often illegally. Its unlikely that it will be possible to track the scale of these operations via official statistics for much longera clear threat not just to human rights or business communities but also to foreign governments.

Now, China is releasing only partial data. Information that makes it hard to perform the comparative analysis is nothing new and has always been very flawed at best, not to mention that the data often cant withstand closer scrutiny. But with recent developments, it will soon go from very hard to impossible to ascertain even the most basic data.

The problem now is moving far beyond merely the human rights community, but it will severely undermine foreign businesses ability to engage with the Chinese regime, and force, whether one wants to or not, an ever-faster decoupling from the Chinese economy. It seems the Chinese Communist Party is intent not merely on decoupling China from the world but making it a black box, cutting off economic, political, and even academic exchanges.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Classical Performances Delight Paramount Theatre Audience in Middletown

Spring Moonlight Gala by Northen Academy and Fei Tian College at Paramount Theatre in Middletown, N.Y., on May 5, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times)

A gala showcasing classical Eastern and Western art forms attracted about 200 attendees at Paramount Theatre in Middletown on May 8.

The Spring Moonlight Gala was put together by faculty and students at Northern Academy and Fei Tian College at Middletown to share classical beauty with local audiences, according to Alison Chen, dance department vice chair at the college.

We are a part of this community, and we need to give back to the community, Chen said. Beauty and goodness should really be shared with everyone around us.

Paul Johnson, a City of Middletown councilman, told The Epoch Times that he enjoyed the show, especially the brass performance of Hands Across the Sea and Amazing Grace.

What I am impressed with this type of performance is the discipline of students and the devotion of the faculty to get that type of talent developed at a really young ageit is remarkable, he said.

Both Northern and Fei Tian offer various tracks in dance, music, and art rooted in classical Eastern and Western cultures, such as ballet, classical Chinese dance, brass, the Chinese erhu, and oil painting.

The two institutions have in common the educational goal of achieving academic and artistic excellence while planting a solid moral compass in students, according to their websites.

These young men and women at Northern Academy and Fei Tian are fantastic, Town of Wallkill Supervisor George Serrano told The Epoch Times after watching the show.

Chen said classical arts require artists to connect with and reflect on themselves first before they can make performances that can move the audience.

(L-R) Ellie Guertin, Richard Guertin, and Matthew Guertin at Paramount Theatre in Middletown, N.Y., on May 6, 2023. (Cara Ding/The Epoch Times)

Middletown City Court Judge Richard Guertin told The Epoch Times that he was deeply touched by the classical Chinese dance piece Fleeting Moments of Youth.

It brought a tear to my eye, Guertin said. The memories of friends from school, the romance, children and raising the family, seeing them grow, and grandchildrenit just brings it all together.

Gerald Kleiner, a City of Middletown councilman, said he appreciated that the shows emcees weaved the history of the Northern and Fei Tian campus into their speeches.

The two institutions sit on the site of the former Middletown Psychiatric Center, where Kleiner spent much time as a child while his parents worked there, he said.

One of the buildings was named after his father, Dr. Solomon Kleiner, who was the hospitals clinical director for 30 years.

The psychiatric center, one of the largest employers in the area in its heyday, gradually declined in the 1960s as the deinstitutionalization movement unfolded.

In 2006, the hospital was closed, and its buildings on more than 200 hundred acres of land were abandoned.

Fei Tian College at Middletown started purchasing and renovating the former hospital buildings in 2015, after which a middle and high school called Northern Academy was established onsite.

Last year, an elementary school, Northern Schoolhouse, was founded on the campus.

We are very happy to be a part of Orange County, a part of Hudson Valley, Chen said.
Press Release

May 8, 2023 Zubiri Leads Christening of New Navy Gunboats and Blessing of Shipbuilding Center On Monday, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was at the Naval Shipyard in Cavite City as the guest of honor of the Philippine Navy for the christening of two new patrol gunboats and the blessing of the newly upgraded Naval Shipbuilding Center. Zubiri has been a vocal advocate of developing a credible defense posture for the country, particularly amidst tensions on Philippine waters. "Despite the much more advanced technologies of some of the foreign actorsor sometimes I say, the bulliesaggressively circling our territory, the men and women of the Navy never back down from your sworn duty to protect the country and the Filipino people," he said. "But I also know that with the proper equipment and technology, the Navy can and will serve the country even better. I have no doubt that with these two new patrol gunboats, the Navy will be able to beef up our border patrol and maritime defense, toward the ultimate goal of protecting our sovereignty." The two new patrol gunboats, BRP Gener Tinangag (PG903) and BRP Domingo Deluana (PG905), are Fast Attack Interdiction Craft-Missiles (FAICs) originally developed for the Israeli navy. These two newest gunboats are part of a fleet of nine Shaldag MK V vessels commissioned from Israel Shipyards Ltd. Named after late Cpl. Gener Tinangag and late Sgt. Domingo Deluana, who both died in the line of duty (in Marawi and Maguindanao, respectively), the two vessels are expected to join the Navy's Acero-class patrol gunboats. Along with the christening of the vessels was the blessing of the newly upgraded Naval Shipbuilding Yard, a project also undertaken in partnership with Israel Shipyards Ltd. "This is a giant step forward, as this will empower the Navy to be more self-sufficient in building and repairing its vessels, which will bring us closer to being on equal footing with the maritime technology of our neighboring countries," said Zubiri. The Senate President also assured the Navy that they have the whole Senate's support. "We still lack state-of-the-art maritime equipment and technology. Today the Navy makes up for that in heart, in smarts, and in courage, but that is not enough, kung di namin kayo bibigyan ng sapat na equipment." Zubiri gave his commitment to pursuing Horizon II and Horizon III projects. "All 24 senators are committed to providing additional help and equipment to the Navy, particularly for more ships, more planeswe're also looking at anti-submarine planes, larger base ships for the West Philippine Sea. We're also asking the Israeli Government to help us with armaments and missile systemsbecause what good is a brand new boat without armaments?" Zubiri said that he will advocate for AFP and Navy modernization in his upcoming meeting with the Department of Budget and Management regarding the 2024 National Expenditure Program. In support of the Navy's Self Reliant Defense Posture, Zubiri also made a commitment to pass the Philippine Defense Industry Development Act, to build our capacity to locally produce armaments and vessels for our Armed Forces. Welcoming Zubiri at the event were officers of the Navy, led by Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci, as well as Rear Admiral Renato David and Rear Admiral Mac Raul Racacho. Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss and Israel Shipyards Chief Executive Officer Eitan Zucker also graced the event. Zubiri's wife, Audrey Tan Zubiri, also led a ceremonial breaking of wine aboard the gunboat, alongside the Flag Officer in Command's wife, Mercy Khristin Adaci. The families of the deceased officers Tinangag and Deluana were in attendance as well. "I want to stress that today, the new ships are only secondary to me today," Zubiri said. "Ang prayoridad ko ngayon at magbigay pugay sa pamilyang Tinangag at pamilyang Deluana, para sa pagbuwis nila Cpl. Tinangag and Sgt. Deluana ng buhay para sa bayan. Hindi po sila makakalimutan ng ating bansa at ng ating mga kababayan." "With the new yard and the new patrol gunboats, I am hopeful that the Navy feels better equipped to be our vanguards of freedom, independence, and democracy, and to be protectors of our people."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The International Music Festival "Kharibulbul" will be held in the cultural capital of Azerbaijan, Shusha, from May 9 through May 11, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture, Trend reports.

On the eve of this event, a festive atmosphere reigns in Shusha.

We present to the readers photos reflecting the atmosphere prevailing in Shusha on the eve of the festival:
Colorado Teachers Union Passes Anti-Capitalist Resolution, Sparking Outcry From Republicans

Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas at the Hilton Anatole August 6, 2022. (Bobby Sanchez for The Epoch Times)

Two Republican members of Colorados U.S. House delegationKen Buck and Doug Lambornhave criticized the states teachers union for the passage of an anti-capitalist resolution at its recent assembly.

In an email to the education publication The Lion, the Colorado Education Association (CEA) belatedly admitted last week to the passage of a resolution on April 22 stating that, in the Associations opinion, capitalism inherently exploits children, public schools, land, labor, and resources.

The resolution also takes the position that capitalism is opposed to fully addressing systemic racism, climate change, patriarchy (gender and LGBTQ disparities), education inequality, and income inequality.

Previously, the CEA had refused to admit the passage of the resolution by the assemblyuntil an apparent delegate posted the news on Twitter that the measure had passed.

Its disturbing that the CEA would endorse this patently false statement, Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) told The Epoch Times in a statement.

Capitalism as an economic system is responsible for raising millions of people out of poverty, vastly increasing the standard of living, and providing people of all classes and backgrounds with the freedom and opportunity to pursue their own economic goals.

The CEA is part of the NEAwhich is the largest labor union in the United States and which represents over 3 million members, according to its website.

Neither the White House, the NEA, nor the CEA returned requests for comment before this article was published.

Activism

Since teachers often represent the largest block of employees in any school district, the NEA commands an army of activists and vast financial resources that are put into play for both local and federal races.

And the NEAs union leadership is not afraid to brag about their political heft.

Over the course of the most consequential elections in our lifetime, candidates had their say, and the voters had theirs, said NEA President Becky Pringle about the unions efforts to help Democrats in 2020. Voters ushered in pro-public education and pro-working families agendas, with unprecedented NEA activism leading the way.

When Pringle took over the union, she promised unapologetic, progressive activism, according to the New York Times.

But the passage of the Marxist-inspired resolution by the CEA is drawing pushback.

I strongly disapprove of the Colorado Education Associations recent passage of this anti-capitalist and far-left resolution, said Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.). This ideology has no place in Colorado schools.

The measure comes against the backdrop of a grassroots, parent-driven movement in education that demands school choice. The movement was the result of growing criticisms of public school systems, which were further exacerbated by the measures enacted to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2022, there were 85 bills in 26 states that addressed parental rights in educationand that number has grown further in 2023.

And the movement will likely intensify, said Lamborn.

Rather than teach their students the inherent freedoms and liberties our nation provides, the CEA seeks to implement curriculum in which socialism has a home. This is why I joined House colleagues to pass the Parents Bill of Rights resolution, said Lamborn.

In March, House Republicans passed the Parental Bill of Rights 213-208.

But with Democrats still narrowly controlling the U.S. Senate, the issue is likely to be a key campaign topic in the 2024 federal races.

A Sinking Ship

The action by the CEA on the anti-capitalist resolution almost guarantees that the role of the teachers unions in public education will take center stage in 2024 campaigns, with negative consequences for both the unions and for Democrats, according to a political strategist.

I think the teachers union as a whole is absolutely wearing out its welcome, pollster Dick Morris told The Epoch Times. I think its facing a mortal [wound].

A former advisor to both Democrat and Republican presidents, Morris cited more than a dozen states that have passed some sort of school-choice legislation, including vouchers, in the last yearin part because voters are tired of union-dominated public school systems, he said.

The teachers union is basically facing extinction. It will become a union, at best for them, of blue states and perhaps a union of no states, he said. They are playing with fire and they are going to get very badly burned [because of this latest resolution by the CEA].

Morris said that the Biden administration has no choice but to distance itself from the position of the CEA and, by proxy, the NEA, but said he doubts the Biden camp has the political will to do that.

I think theyre going down with a sinking ship, Morris added.

Calls to Disassociate

One Colorado legislator is calling on parents, politicians, and local school boards to reject union money and influence.

Parents need assurance that when they entrust their children to the neighborhood school, the teacher will advance the natural laws of liberty as espoused by Thomas Jefferson and not authoritarian control advocated by Karl Marx, Republican State Sen. Mark Baisley told The Epoch Times.

School boards across Colorado should dissociate from any professional education association that holds the view that capitalism ought to be dismantled and replaced with socialism. This includes legally breaking a collective bargaining agreement with a union that adopts such a policy, said Baisley, who has been a vocal advocate of school choice in the state.

The threat to decertify the unions in Colorado is no idle dream of Baisleys, either.

Under his leadership as chairman of the local GOP, Douglas County, Colorado, decertified its teachers union in 2012.

I further call on school districts across Colorado to refuse to employ anyone as a teacher who maintains membership in a professional education association that holds the view that capitalism ought to be dismantled and replaced with socialism. The kind of teachers whom Colorado students deserve are the kind of people who reject such primitive social theories, Baisley added.

Anti-American

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich agreed.

I think in the state legislature they have a great opportunity in Colorado to take this head on, and to basically say, If thats what they stand for, why is anybody in Colorado signing a contract [with the CEA to represent them]? Gingrich told The Epoch Times.

He said that this is not an issue that can be approached in a neutral manner in an effort to understand union leadership.

Thats because, in his opinion, anti-American Marxists dominate the teachers union.

They are, in fact, opposed to historic America. They are opposed to the system which has made us the wealthiest country in the world. Theyre opposed to the Constitution, which has protected our liberties. And they are pretty much everywhere, said Gingrich.

Gingrich said that Coloradans should be appalled and that nationwide, the CEA anti-capitalist resolution is the best possible argument for universal school choice.

He also recommended that the U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee focus some hearings on the unions.

It would present a tremendous opportunity to show how teachers unions oppose the traditional American system, he said.

[They] could put together an amazing hearing of how anti-American and how opposed to the traditional American system the teachers unions have become, Gingrich said.
Convicted Murderer Faces Retrial in 2nd Tucson Girls Death

This undated photo shows Christopher Matthew Clements (36) and was released by the Tucson Police Department on Sept. 15, 2018. (Tucson Police Department/AP)

TUCSON, Ariz.A man already convicted of murdering a Tucson teenager in 2014 is scheduled to be retried in the kidnapping and death of a 6-year-old girl.

Pima County prosecutors said the retrial of 41-year-old Christopher Clements is scheduled to begin on Sept. 12 and last four weeks.

Clements has been charged with first-degree murder, burglary and kidnapping a minor under the age of 15 in relation to Isabel Celis death and disappearance.

He was tried on the same charges in February, but a mistrial was declared when jurors could not agree on the murder count.

In a separate case last year, Clements was sentenced to life in prison for the 2014 death of 13-year-old Maribel Gonzalez.

A different jury heard Clements first murder trial involving Celis, who was reported missing from her bedroom in her parents Tucson home in April 2012.

Clements, a convicted sex offender with a long criminal record, was arrested in 2018 and indicted on 22 felony counts in the girls deaths.

Gonzalez disappeared while walking to a friends house in June 2014 and authorities said her body was found days later.

Celis remains were not recovered until 2017. Authorities said Clements was identified as a suspect in March of that year after he led federal investigators to her remains in exchange for the dropping of unrelated charges.

According to Tucson police, Clements said he had nothing to do with Celis death and he only knew the location of the body.
COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Drops Near Zero Within Months: Study

Booster doses were also shown to lose effectiveness over time

The effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines fell below 20 percent a few months after vaccination, with booster shots seeing effectiveness drop below 30 percent.

The review, published in the JAMA Network journal on May 3, analyzed 40 studies estimating vaccine effectiveness (VE) over time against laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 infection and symptomatic disease. The studies were selected from 799 original articles, 149 reviews published in peer-reviewed journals, and 35 preprints. The review found that the vaccine effectiveness of a primary vaccination cycle against the Omicron infection and symptomatic disease was lower than 20 percent at 6 months from the administration of the last dose.

Booster doses restored vaccine effectiveness to levels similar to those seen after administration of the primacy cycle dose. However, nine months after the booster dose, vaccine effectiveness against Omicron was found to be lower than 30 percent against infection and symptomatic disease.

The half-life of VE against symptomatic infection was estimated to be 87 days for Omicron compared with 316 days for Delta. Similar waning rates of VE were found for different age segments of the population.

These findings suggest that the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against laboratory-confirmed Omicron or Delta infection and symptomatic disease rapidly wanes over time after the primary vaccination cycle and booster dose, the study said.

Putting together the bulk of available evidence on the waning of VE over time against COVID-19 variants has crucial implications for future interventions and vaccination programs.

Effectiveness by Vaccine Brand

Vaccine effectiveness against Omicron infection was 44.4 percent a month after the completion of the primary vaccination cycle. This fell to 20.7 percent at six months and then to 13.4 percent at nine months. Vaccine effectiveness was found to be higher against the Delta variant as compared to the Omicron variant.

Pooled estimates of VE after any primary vaccination cycle against symptomatic disease after Omicron infection show a marked waning over time, the study stated.

Effectiveness against symptomatic disease fell from 52.8 percent a month after completion of the primary vaccination cycle to 14.3 percent at six months and 8.9 percent at nine months.

Our estimates suggest that the initial VE could be different depending on the vaccine product, with higher VE found at one month from the second dose administration for Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech compared with AstraZeneca and Sinovac.

With regard to age, vaccine effectiveness was found to be similar in younger and older age groups against the Omicron variant infection.

No significant differences were observed between the two age groups regarding vaccine effectiveness against Delta variant infection. A significantly lower VE was found for both age groups for Omicron compared with Delta, it stated.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Pfizer for comment.

Vaccine Harms

COVID-19 vaccines have been known to lead to several medical conditions. One study that examined 9,500 women found that those who had taken COVID-19 shots had a slightly higher risk of heavier menstrual bleeding. In the study, 40 out of 1,000 women saw bleeding increase after just a single dose of a vaccine.

Earlier research from the same team had found that the length of the menstrual cycle increased by 3.7 days on average among women who had taken two doses of COVID-19 vaccines compared to those who hadnt taken a shot.

According to a study from February published in the British Medical Journal, heart failure and deaths have occurred among those who have taken COVID-19 shots.

Researchers found that more people experienced myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination than after being infected by the virus. Myocarditis is a type of heart inflammation.

A March report from Phinance Technologies, a global macro investment firm co-founded by former BlackRock portfolio manager Edward Dowd, estimates that COVID-19 vaccine damages in the United States resulted in more than 26 million people being injured last year, with such injuries costing almost $150 billion to the economy.

Misleading Effectiveness Claims, Compensation for Injuries

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is also looking at whether Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson misrepresented the efficacy of their COVID-19 vaccines.

According to Paxton, the companies may have violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which bars people intending to sell a product from disseminating a statement that they know materially misrepresents the cost or character of tangible personal property, a security, service, or anything he may offer.

It also bans representing that a product is of a particular standard, quality, or grade  if they are of another.

Paxton has asked the three companies to submit relevant documents and information, including any concerns with regard to the vaccine trials.

Meanwhile, letters from U.S. officials that were reviewed by The Epoch Times show that authorities rejected multiple individuals who had sought compensation for injuries suffered as a result of taking a COVID-19 shot despite diagnoses from doctors.

One such individual is agricultural pilot Cody Flint who began suffering from adverse reactions to Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine after taking a shot. Four doctors confirmed that his medical complication, including experiencing intense head pressure, were linked to the COVID-19 vaccine.

Flint sent the medical files to the U.S. Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP), which is tasked with compensating people who prove that they were injured due to getting vaccinated against COVID-19.

However, CICP rejected Flints claim, saying that it did not find the requisite evidence necessary to prove that his health issues were caused by the Pfizer vaccine.
Local and Private COVID Vaccine Mandates at Health Care Facilities Being Reversed, Struck Down Across US

A group of Western University students hold a protest against the school's COVID-19 mandates on Aug. 27, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Nicole Osborne)

Efforts to overturn vaccine mandates for both hospital patients and health care workers appear to be gaining momentum across the United States.

In whats seen as a major victory for transplant patients who didnt take the COVID-19 vaccine, one of the largest transplant centers in the United States reversed its policy to require the vaccine in order to be eligible for an organ transplant.

The University of Michigan (UM) announced its new policy on May 4, just before court proceedings started in a lawsuit filed against it for declaring patients ineligible for an organ transplant unless they agreed to receive the vaccine.

The suit was filed on behalf of several patients by David Peters of Pacific Justice Institute, who, in celebrating the reversal, simply said Were winning!

According to a written statement by UM, new information led to the voluntary decision to reverse its policy.

The University hereby gives notice to the Court that in light of developing epidemiological and other actuarial circumstances, effective April 27, 2023, it has changed its Transplant Center COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement for Adult Transplant Candidates, the statement reads. Relevant to this litigation, COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be required prior to wait-listing of potential adult solid organ transplant recipients.

The UM decision came on the same day that a federal judge chastised Maine Assistant Attorney General Kimberly Patwardhan for filing a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed on behalf of health care workers who lost their jobs for refusing to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

You obviously have not been reading the U.S. Supreme Court precedent on this or else you would not have filed your motion to dismiss, Judge Sandra Lynch said to Patwardhan.

Lynch made the comments during oral arguments in the case before a three-judge panel of the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals in Boston. The case is being argued by Matt Staver, founder of Liberty Counsel, on behalf of the health care workers.

In addition to the ban, Maine Gov. Janet Mills also threatened to revoke the licenses of all health care employers who fail to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for all workers.

Maine is one of six statesalong with New York, California, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Mississippithat banned religious exemptions from vaccine mandates.

In April, in Mississippi, in what many parents opposed to vaccines are hoping will become a national precedent, a federal judge ruled that outlawing religious exemptions from vaccines, including school-required immunization, was unconstitutional and ordered the provision restored.

Such rulings follow a Supreme Court decision that found that its discriminatory for states to consider other kinds of exemptions from the vaccine while denying religious ones.

However, Peters said he believes that the SCOTUS ruling is only part of the reason hospitals are starting to voluntarily reverse COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Peters, who holds a doctorate in medical sociology and a masters in medicine, said the hospitals are starting to own up to the reality that the vaccines are if not hurtful, useless.

He has several other pending cases against transplant centers that have denied patients a spot on a list, including some in need of life-saving heart transplants, because they werent vaccinated against COVID-19.

Peters said hes planning to file tons more across the country.

Liberty Counsel has also partnered with lawyers in states including Florida to bring similar lawsuits on behalf of patients and health care workers.

Florida attorney Jenn Vasquez represents nursing students on behalf of Liberty Counsel in pending litigation against their colleges for refusing to let them complete their clinicals unless they get the COVID-19 vaccine.

And yet we are being told we are in a nursing crisis, she told The Epoch Times.

In Maine, another group, Health Choice Maine, has filed a separate lawsuit on behalf of EMTs who were fired for not taking the vaccine.

The Mills administration continues to enforce the mandate for EMT workers despite a critical shortage of technicians and drivers in Maine, which has the largest elderly population in the United States.

One of the largest U.S. hospitals has also been taken to court over its denial of religious exemptions from the COVID-19 vaccine.

Oral arguments are scheduled for May 10 in a case against Mass General Brigham in Boston.

In the lawsuit, 159 workers question why the hospital granted 230 employees religious exemptions but denied their requests. The hospital cited hardship as the reason but didnt explain what it meant, the complaint shows.

The hospital has filed a summary judgment asking the court to dismiss the case.

Massachusetts attorney Ryan McLane of McLane & McLane, a law firm affiliated with Liberty Counsel, is representing the 159 health care workers in the case.
Delaying Nations Debt-Limit Increase Only Makes Matters Worse, Warns Elon Musk

Industrialist Elon Musk stated that delaying the raising of Americas debt ceiling will only make consequences worse, as the United States is only a few weeks away from breaching the limit.

In the end, all debts must be paid, just a question of when. Later makes it worse, Musk posted in a May 8 tweet. He was responding to a tweet about Treasury Secretary Janet Yellens warning on Sunday that any failure to raise the national debt limit could result in economic chaos. Back in January, Yellen said that the government can only pay its bill through early June with the current debt limit of $31.4 trillion. The limit was hit in January. Washington now only has a few more weeks before the country risks breaching the ceiling.

In a May 6 tweet, The Kobeissi Letter, an industry-leading commentary on the global capital markets, warned that though the failure to raise U.S. debt ceiling would be catastrophic, taking on additional debt is a crisis itself.

Since 2008, the United States has added $22 trillion in debt$8 trillion of which has been accumulated since 2020. It had taken the country 230 years to add its first $8 trillion in debt.

In 2022, the net interest expense on U.S. debt was approximately $475 billion, which comes to around 10 percent of the nations tax revenue.

Within the next 10 years, total U.S. debt is estimated to hit $50 trillion with annual interest expense well over $1 trillion. Soon, interest will be the U.S. governments largest expense. Each time the debt ceiling is raised, the crisis gets worse. We need a sustainable solution, the tweet said.

Breaching the Debt Ceiling

In a May 1 letter (pdf) to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), Yellen revealed that the Treasury would be unable to continue satisfying the governments financial obligations potentially as early as June 1 in case Congress does not raise the debt limit.

We have learned from past debt-limit impasses that waiting until the last minute to suspend or increase the debt limit can cause serious harm to business and consumer confidence, raise short-term borrowing costs for taxpayers, and negatively impact the credit rating of the United States, the letter said.

If Congress fails to increase the debt limit, it would cause severe hardship to American families, harm our global leadership position, and raise questions about our ability to defend our national security interests.

Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell has warned that failing to raise the debt limit would push the United States into an unchartered territory. The consequences to the American economy could be highly uncertain.

No one should assume that the Fed can protect the economy from the potential short- and long-term effects of a failure to pay our bills on time.

Raising Debt Limit

To resolve the issue of raising the debt ceiling, President Joe Biden is scheduled to meet with McCarthy on May 9. Both of them have been locked in limbo regarding the issue, with Biden asking Congress to raise the debt limit without any condition while McCarthy insisting that the GOP will not consider increasing the limit unless the president agrees to cut down future spending.

On April 29, House Republicans passed the Limit, Save, Grow Act that seeks to raise the borrowing limit by an additional $1.5 trillion while implementing spending cuts of $4.5 trillion over 10 years. However, Democrats have rejected the proposal, and refused to counter the offer.

On May 6, a group of 43 Senate Republicans wrote a letter to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-Calif.) saying that they oppose raising the debt ceiling without substantive spending and budget reforms.

In a May 1 tweet, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) said that those who want to raise the debt limit without any conditions are ignoring fiscal and economic realities.

Were running up debts faster than well EVER have an ability to pay off. Chinas trying to negotiate AROUND the U.S. dollar to remove us from world currency reserve status. These are MAJOR issues.
Democratic Lawmaker Urges Mayorkas to Work With GOP on Immigration Solution

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas participates in an interview with Michael Isikoff of Yahoo News in Washington on June 14, 2021. (DHS/U.S. government)

A Democrat member of Congress has demanded that President Joe Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas work with Republicans to find a bipartisan solution on immigration as Title 42 nears an end.

In her May 8 letter (pdf) to the Department of Homeland Security head, Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.) warned that the anticipated influx of unlawful border-crossers after Title 42 ends on May 11 could exacerbate an existing humanitarian and refugee crisis if nothing is done to mitigate it.

As the President has decided to lift the [Title 42] order this week, we now face a doubling of illegal crossings at our southern border by some estimates, exacerbating the current humanitarian and refugee crisis, Davids wrote.

While you have presented a list of ways you plan to address the surge of migration, some of which I agree with, we still have not reached a comprehensive, long-term plan with bipartisan support.

In her message, Davids said that any plan to help solve problems at the southern border would need the backing of both the Senate, currently controlled by Democrats, and the House, where Republicans hold the majority.

She pointed out that it will soon be one of the most important issues in her chamber as the GOP works on a bill to deal with immigration and the border as a whole.

U.S. House Republicans plan to initiate debate about immigration reform in the coming weeks. I urge you and the White House to join me in engaging in these conversations about what the landscape for immigration reform in our country should look like, she wrote.

Mayorkas has signaled a plan to deal with immigrants entering the United States illegally, saying they could face a new, expedited deportation process.

The new regulation provides that individuals who do not access our lawful pathways will be presumed ineligible for asylum and will have a higher burden of proof, to overcome that assumption of ineligibility, Mayorkas said at a news conference on May 5.

Davids advocated for a plan that would both secure the border and offer a path to citizenship for unlawful immigrants already residing in the United States.

Ultimately, we need a comprehensive and bipartisan solution that is smart, humane, and true to our countrys values. That must include securing and protecting our borders along with a road map to citizenship, Davids wrote. You have had a year to engage prior to the lifting of Title 42, and I hope that you and the President both recommit to working with Congress to achieve real results.

In March 2020, Title 42 of the Public Health Service Act of 1944 was implemented by the Trump administration. It permits the denial of asylum claims and the swift expulsion of the majority of illegal border-crossers on grounds of preventing the entry of contagious diseases into the United States.

Agents at the frontier were able to quickly return many illegal immigrants to Mexico under Title 42, thereby preventing the spread of COVID-19 in overcrowded detention facilities.

When Title 42 is repealed, all illegal immigrants will be processed under Title 8 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which currently takes longer than Title 42 and only allows the expulsion of illegal immigrants that dont qualify for asylum.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson responded to The Epoch Times request for comment on the letter, saying, DHS responds to Congressional correspondence directly via official channels, and the Department will continue to respond appropriately to Congressional oversight.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson responded to The Epoch Timess request for comment on the letter, saying, DHS responds to Congressional correspondence directly via official channels, and the Department will continue to respond appropriately to Congressional oversight.
Doing Business in China Is Now That Little Bit More Risky

Residents cross an intersection at a shopping district in Hong Kong, on Oct. 30, 2022. (Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

Commentary

Changes to espionage laws and imposing bans on people leaving China pose increased risks for visitors, including professionals, business executives, and scholars.

The Xinhua news agency reported that Chinese lawmakers voted a week ago to adopt a revised Counter-Espionage Law, which will take effect on July 1, 2023.

The revised law was passed at the National Peoples Congress (NPC) Standing Committee session.

Adopted in November 2014, the current Counter-Espionage Law regulates and safeguards the fight against espionage, which plays an important role in safeguarding national security, said Wang Aili with the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee.

The law, which previously covered state secrets, does not define what falls under Beijings national interests.

The revised law expands the definition of espionage, specifying acts such as carrying out cyber-attacks against state organs, confidential organs, or crucial information infrastructure as acts of espionage.

It also expands the scope of targets of espionage, with all documents, data, materials, and articles concerning national security and interests included for protection, Wang said.

The revised law allows authorities carrying out an anti-espionage investigation to gain access to data, electronic equipment, and information on personal property and also to ban border crossings.

This includes access to mobile phones and laptops.

This vague, wide-ranging extension to the laws heightens the risks for foreigners in China, especially anyone collecting, creating, using or processing datain other words, many providers of business services.

Typical business activities, such as gathering commercial information, are potentially caught by the laws.

A police officer tries to stop a photo journalist from taking pictures on a street outside of a shopping mall complex in Beijing on Oct. 13, 2020. (Nicolas Asfouri/AFP via Getty Images)

Even before the new laws, foreign firms have been targeted by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

The Shanghai office of the global management consulting firm Bain & Co was raided recently and its staff interrogated.

This follows similar actions against Deloitte and Mintz, two other global firms. Five Beijing Chinese employees of the Mintz Group, a major legal firm involved in corporate analysis, due diligence, and corruption investigations, were arrested.

In 2013, a British corporate investigator, Peter Humphrey and his American wife, who operated ChinaWhys, a risk consultancy business, were arrested after working for the pharmaceutical company GSK. They were eventually released after some two years of imprisonment.

I am aware of other, smaller western consultancies currently being harassed which are not yet in the news, Humphrey wrote after news of the actions against Bain & Co.

China has also failed to renew subscriptions of foreign entities to Wind, an information company that provides databases of corporate registrations, patents, procurement documents, as well as official statistics.

The CCP has been widening the legal landscape for imposing exit bans and is increasing their use against everyone from human rights defenders to foreign journalists, according to a new report by Safeguard Defenders.

Expanding Control Domestically and Overseas

The report Trapped: Chinas expanding use of exit bans deploys official data and provides an examination of the new laws.

It contains interviews with victims to explore how the country is increasingly resorting to exit bans to punish human rights defenders and their families, holds people hostage to force overseas targets to return to China, controls ethnic-religious groups, engages in hostage diplomacy, and intimidates foreign journalists.

China has also approved amendments that will allow exit bans on anyone under investigation (Chinese and foreigners) deemed a potential national security risk.

Between 2018 and July of this year, no less than five new or amended laws provide for the use of exit bans, for a new total of at least 15 laws.

Australian Ambassador to China Graham Fletcher (L) is not allowed entry by court officials and police as he tries to enter the trial of Chinese Australian journalist Cheng Lei at the Beijing Number 2 Intermediate Peoples Court in Beijing, China, on March 31, 2022. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

In the absence of transparent official data and excluding ethnicity-based exit bans, which number in the millions, we estimate that at least tens of thousands of people in China are placed on exit bans at any one time, the organisation reports.

Dozens of foreigners are also being prevented from leaving China if they work for a company that is involved in a civil dispute. Deliberately vague wording in the Civil Procedure Law means that individuals not even connected to the dispute can be trapped in China.

Irish businessman Richard OHalloran was barred from leaving China for more than three years (2019 to 2022) because the company he worked for was involved in a commercial dispute, even though he wasnt even working for the firm when the dispute began.

Another study revealed that 128 foreigners were banned from leaving the country between 1995 and 2019.

Time to Ratchet Up the Travel Risk Guide

In some cases, the targeting of foreigners is part of Beijings hostage diplomacy, a tit-for-tat retaliation aimed at a foreign government or a tactic to extract concessions. Often, the action is more serious, such as arbitrary detention, or sometimes exit bans are used in the initial stages.

In December 2018, two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were arrested in China in retaliation for the arrest of Huaweis chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, in Canada.

Former diplomat Michael Kovrig embraces his wife Vina Nadjibulla upon his arrival at Toronto Pearson International Airport on Sept. 25, 2021. (DND-MDN Canada/Cpl. Justin Dreimanis)

Kovrig was a former Canadian diplomat and advisor for the International Crisis Group, and Spavor was a consultant working on North Korea. They were indicted under Beijings vague state secret law.

When Meng was released after agreeing to a deferred prosecution deal relating to bank and wire fraud charges in the U.S., the two Michaels were released.

The reality under the CCP is that lawyers, judges, and courts are agents of the regime.

In a directive by the Central Committee of the CCP, published in February, law schools, lawyers, and judges were instructed to oppose and resist Western erroneous views such as constitutional government, separation of three powers, and the independence of the judiciary.

Two prominent human rights lawyers, Xu Zhiyong and Ding Jiaxi, were recently sentenced to more than a decade in jail after being convicted of subversion of state power after secret trials.

Not that trials in China are impartial with a conviction rate of over 99 percent!

For several years now, the U.S. State Departments travel advisory on China has warned that Beijing uses exit bans to gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs merely advises travellers to China to exercise a high degree of caution.

It is perhaps time that the advice was updated to reflect the increased risks involved in visiting China.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Falun Dafa Practitioners Hold Parade in San Francisco to Celebrate World Falun Dafa Day

Falun Dafa practitioners march in a parade in San Francisco on May 6, 2023, to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day. (Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times)

SAN FRANCISCOApproximately 400 Falun Dafa practitioners participated in a grand parade in San Francisco on May 6, celebrating the upcoming World Falun Dafa Day on May 13.

May 13 is the anniversary of the day the Chinese spiritual practice Falun Dafa (also known as Falun Gong) was introduced to the public in 1992. It is also the birthday of Falun Dafa founder Mr. Li Hongzhi, who is turning 72 this year.

The parade started in Harry Bridges Plaza and marched along Market Street and Kearny Street toward Portsmouth Square.

The Tian Guo Marching Band, which is mainly composed of Falun Dafa practitioners, was first in the parade line. Next was a dragon dance team as well as various banners and signs celebrating Falun Dafa Day and Mr. Lis birthday.

Members of the Tian Guo Marching Band march in a parade in San Francisco on May 6, 2023, to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day. (Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times)

Organizer Joel Eng told The Epoch Times that Falun Dafa practitioners try to become better people every day by following the practices three main principles: truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.

If everyone follows these principles  the world will be at peace, he said.

The practice also includes five meditative exercises. In the 1990s, it became widely known in China for its physical and mental health benefits.

Its really good for peoples health, Eng said. Also, people feel their moral standard uplifted.  Life has a new meaning.

Practitioner Linda Campbell told The Epoch Times: People have tremendous health benefits as a result of the practice.

She said she always thought she was a happy person, but shes happier after starting to practice Falun Dafa.

I just feel more comfortable inside myself, because weve been given a way to look inside when problems come up, and you know how to resolve them, Campbell said.

Practitioners demonstrate the Falun Dafa exercises in San Francisco on May 6, 2023. (Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times)

After Falun Dafas public debut in China in 1992, the practice spread quickly throughout the country. By 1999, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) estimated there were close to 100 million people practicing it in China.

In July 1999, the CCP began to violently persecute Falun Dafa practitioners by harassing, imprisoning, and killing them and by using media to spread propaganda slandering the practice. The persecution has continued to this day.

Chris Kitze, who has been practicing Falun Gong for 15 years and works as an entrepreneur, said one of the purposes of the parade is to let people know about the persecution.

Kitze told The Epoch Times: Its a very sad thing. People have been persecuted to death; theyve been arrested for meditating in China. So were hopeful that the persecution will come to an end.

Zhibin Gao, a refugee from mainland China who landed in the United States a month ago, joined the parade. He told The Epoch Times hes proud to see that these Falun Gong practitioners are able to celebrate outside China.

As part of Chinese culture, it thrives outside of China; they can have belief of their own choice, he said.

Falun Dafa practitioners march in a parade in San Francisco on May 6, 2023, to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day. (Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times)

Another refugee joining the parade was Jianping Hao from the city of Zhengzhou, China.

I am so excited and happy to be able to join the parade, Mr. Hao told The Epoch Times. Its unimaginable in mainland Chinanot to mention the parade for Falun Gong, I am afraid I will disappear even when I show my support of Falun Gong.

In the Harry Bridges Plaza before the parade, nearby resident Veronica Chung said she became interested in Falun Dafa after she learned the personal story of a female Falun Dafa practitioner who had had struggles getting pregnant.

Im currently 37 and working through a lot of trauma to heal before I bring a child into this world, Chung told The Epoch Times. She was telling me all the ways that this practice is beneficial and could be beneficial in my life.

Chung said she planned to check out the Falun Dafa books.

The heart to heart is what matters to me, and seeing peoples heart and how it transformed their lives, thats what Im curious about, she said.

Jason Blair contributed to this report.
Federal Minister Cancels Two Proposed Coal Mine Projects

A bucket-wheel dumping soil and sand removed from another area of the mine in Newcastle, Australia, the world's largest coal exporting port, on Nov. 5, 2021. (Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images)

The Australian federal government has cancelled applications for two proposed coal mine projects in Queensland after the developers failed to provide the necessary environmental credentials and outline any impacts the projects will have on the environment.

The China Stone Coal Mine project and The Range Coal project were cancelled on May 5 by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek.

The two coal mine projects were both set to be located in central Queensland.

The China Stone Coal mine was proposed by MacMines Austasia, a subsidiary of the Shanxi Meijin Energy Group in China, to construct and operate a coal mine in regional Belyando, Central Queensland at the northern end of the Galilee Basin.

In 2018, Queenslands coordinator-general gave the project conditional approval, and then the environmental department requested MacMines for information on the environmental impacts, such as the potential impact on water resources and threatened animal species.

The company did not respond or provide an answer to the request.

The China Stone Coal mine project had estimated an investment of $6.7 billion (US$4.53 billion) would be needed to develop the project with a projected yield of up to 38 million tonnes per annum of thermal coal.

The second cancelled projectThe Range Coal project proposed by Stanmore Resourceswas also proposed to construct an open-cut coal mine and processing facilities.

The Range Coal would operate 25 km north of south-east of Wandoan, in the Surat Basin of central Queensland, and was projected to extract up to 6.3 million tonnes of thermal coal per annum.

This project would not only include a coal handling and preparation plant, but also a 26 km transport corridor, a train loading facility and associated power and water infrastructure.

In 2013, additional information was also requested by the government on the potential harm the project would have on the environment, but no response has been provided.

In 2020, both the coal mine developers indicated they wished to progress with the development and would submit the requested information; however, neither developer submitted the additional information requested.

Even though applications from both China Stone Coal and The Range Coal have been cancelled, they can reapply and start the assessment process from the very beginning.

Importance of Assessing Impact on the Environment

This is not the first time Plibersek has cancelled a coal mine project since her appointment to the ministry. Three other coal mine projects have been cancelled or withdrawn in the past few months under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999.

The first coal mine project to be cancelled by an environment minister was a coal mine project by Clive Palmer located near Rockhampton, Queensland. This project was cancelled due to the close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.

Ive been clear I will have zero tolerance for businesses who refuse to provide adequate information about the impact their projects will have on nature, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek told AAP on May 5.

If companies arent willing to show how they will protect nature, then Im willing to cancel their projectsand thats exactly what Ive done.

Australian Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Kelly OShanassy said that companies have been ignoring government requests for critical information on how their proposals may impact the environment for too long.

Many companies are still able to go ahead with their nature-wrecking proposals, OShanassy said, reported The Guardian.

Its good to see an environment minister cancelling a coal project when a company fails to provide information about impacts on water and wildlife, but it again highlights the need for a strong, independent environmental protection agency that can make these sorts of assessments and decisions at arms length from the executive government.

After the Albanese government announced the National Net Zero Authority to coordinate Australias clean energy transformation, OShanassy said in a media release that the clean energy revolution will still need to be managed properly. If managed badly, it will result in a lot of damage to nature, so the authority must make sure the transition is done in a way thats good for nature.

A transition that allows communities to help lead the way to a future beyond coal and gas will be a faster and more effective transitionand thats better for our climate, OShanassy said.

Communities will look to this authority to support, coordinate and complement existing state and regional transition planning processes, starting with the regions experiencing closures of coal-fired power stations.

Future of Coal Mines Projects

Stanmore Resourced Chief Executive Marcelo Matos said although the project has been cancelled, their other tenure and approvals remain in effect, and Stanmore may reapply for approval again in the future.

The Range is a legacy thermal coal resource from Stanmores IPO in 2009, and while it remains in our portfolio of reserves and options, our current focus has been on developing our metallurgical coal assets, Matos said in a media release (pdf).

Stanmores intention is to maintain the asset, including its tenure, and preserve our optionality going forward.

We will continue to assess our options for The Range and seek to engage with Queensland and Commonwealth authorities to further progress the project.

One of Stanmores projectsthe Isaac Downs projectwas brought into production in 2021 after Stanmore prioritised approvals and progressed the development of the project.

However, opposition resources spokeswoman Susan McDonald said that the reluctance to progress new mines shows an anti-jobs and anti-investment culture is clearly now growing under the Albanese government.

Tanya Plibersek is treating a chiefly administrative act with the glee she reserves for her ongoing war on coal, McDonald told AAP.

Opposition environment spokesman Jonno Duniam also added that its disappointing that the two projects wont proceed, as such projects are important for the Australian economy.

In July 2022, the Environment Council of Central Queensland (ECoCeQ), represented by Environmental Justice Australia, launched the Living Wonders legal intervention to pressure the environment minister to reconsider 19 coal and gas proposals.

After cancelling the China Stone Coal Mine project and The Range Coal project, there are now 14 coal and gas proposals subject to legal intervention.

ECoCeQ president Christine Carlisle said in a media release that the environment minister should show courage when assessing the remaining coal and gas proposals on her desk, where each and every one of them will have a devastating impact on our climate and our living wonders, so must be properly assessed.
Gascon, LA County Probation Department Sued Over El Monte Officers Deaths

In honor of two El Monte police officers killed in a recent motel shooting, hundreds of community members, law enforcement officers, and family members gathered at a candlelight vigil outside the El Monte Civic Center in El Monte, Calif., on June 18, 2022. (Linda Jiang/The Epoch Times)

LOS ANGELESLos Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon, his office and the county Probation Department are being sued for wrongful death by relatives of one of two El Monte police officers who was fatally shot by a convicted felon at an El Monte motel last June, the plaintiffs attorneys announced May 4.

The Los Angeles Superior Court complaint lawsuit brought by family members of the late Officer Joseph Santana states that Justin Flores, 35, was placed on probation in a plea deal in 2021 after he was arrested in 2020 for being a felon in possession of a firearm and methamphetamine. Even though Flores had a prior felony conviction for burglary, Gascon issued a directive barring the prosecutor handling Floress case from filing a strike allegation against Flores, the suit states.

In doing so, Gascon disregarded Californias three strikes law, which requires prosecutors to plead prior known strikes, the suit states.

The District Attorneys Office issued a statement on May 4 regarding the suit.

As weve previously stated, our hearts go out to the family of Officer Santana, the statement read. His tragic murder is a devastating loss to his family, friends and the community he bravely served. We have nothing but empathy for those who are suffering. We have not received a copy of the filings. We have not reviewed the legal documents and cannot comment at this time. Again, our heart goes out to the victims of this horrific tragedy.

But according to the suit, if Gascon followed the law, Flores would have been sentenced to prison. After being put on probation in March 2021, Flores was only seen by his probation officer oncealthough he was supposed to have monthly check-insand Probation Department members never initiated a desertion proceeding as their own policies required, which would have forced a probation revocation, the suit states.

On June 2, Floress probation officer completed a phone check-in with him after learning that Flores was in illegal possession of a gun and had beaten a woman, but Flores did not show up for an appointment four days later and his probation officer never reported the information to law enforcement, the suit states.

The probation officer filed for a revocation of Floress probation a day before the shootings, but Flores was not taken into custody, the suit states. Flores died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head.

Santana and fellow El Monte Police Officer Michael Paredes responded to a report of a stabbing on June 14 at the Siesta Inn, where Flores was staying with his wife. The officers rescued the victim, but were subsequently shot to death by Flores.

Two young police officers were killed, in part, because L.A. Countys Probation Department sat on its hands and failed to yank a dangerous felon off the streets after he blatantly violated the terms of his probation, said plaintiffs attorney David Ring. District Attorney Gascons ill-advised policies coupled with the Probation Departments failure to act played a big role in the deaths of two on-duty officers.

The Santana family released the following statement regarding the lawsuit.

Gascon and the Probation Department need to be held accountable for their failures that resulted in Josephs death, the statement read. No family should ever have to endure the pain weve been through since the tragic passing of our loving son, father and husband.
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Gone 20 Years, New Hampshires Old Man of Mountain Lives On

An interactive 3D model of the state's Old Man of the Mountain is shown back on Cannon Cliff in Franconia Notch on April 28, 2023. (Matthew Maclay via AP)

CONCORD, N.H.Two decades after New Hampshires famous Old Man of the Mountain crumbled to pieces, the state is paying tribute to the granite profile that symbolizes its independence with new geological research, poetry, a song, and a scavenger hunt.

The 40-foot-tall (12-meter-tall) natural rock formationa series of ledges that resembled an old mans facial profilewas suspended 1,200 feet (366 meters) above Franconia Notch, held in place by turnbuckles and rods to fight erosion. It collapsed, and the rubble was discovered the morning of May 3, 2003.

When he was up there, he represented a kind of reliantly steady, reassuring presence in a world that was otherwise changing really rapidly, said Brian Fowler, a geologist and president of the Old Man of the Mountain Legacy Fund that led an online tribute Wednesday, with shared stories, poetry, and a new song. His departure was a stunning and shocking event, Fowler said.

Among the people who memorialized him were elementary-school children, born long after the Old Man fell.

This landmark was a great loss, he was New Hampshires greatest boss, began a poem by one girl who read it during the ceremony.

The Old Man was created by a series of geological events going back millions of years. Its not clear how old it was; New Hampshire historical records mention it as early as 1805. Geologists believe it formed sometime after the end of the Ice Age, perhaps as long as 12,000 years ago.

Today, theres a better sense of the volume and mass of rock that was lost when the Old Man fell from Cannon Mountain. It couldnt be calculated before. A research project led by Dartmouth College graduate student Matthew Maclay estimates it was 750 cubic metersmore volume than five school buses, he said.

Maclay, who is studying soil and rock samples from the mountain, created an online interactive 3D model of the Old Man as it was. He was assisted by Dartmouth collaborators who used a drone to do aerial surveys. He also used original film negatives taken between 1958 and 1976 that documented the formation and area. Viewers can see the model up close and at different angles.

The Old Man of the Mountain may have weighed nearly 2,000 tons when it collapsed, said Maclay, who spoke about his research Wednesday. While 3-inch turnbuckles had been bolted into the Old Man to try and prevent it from falling, the actual strength of the granite was degraded over centuries, and thats probably why it collapsed.

Through the years, the profile became the subject of paintings and literature. Novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote about The Great Stone Face. Statesman Daniel Webster said, Shoe makers hang out a gigantic shoe; jewelers a monster watch, and the dentist hangs out a gold tooth; but up in the Mountains of New Hampshire, God Almighty has hung out a sign to show that there he makes men.

When the Old Man was written about, he was given the characteristics of what could generally be thought of as New Hampshire qualities and valuesrugged individualism, stoic, steadfast, able to weather anything, said Inez McDermott, curator of an upcoming exhibit at the Museum of the White Mountains at Plymouth State University.

Efforts to save the Old Man and 6,000-acre (2,340-hectare) Franconia Notch began in the 1920s, when the land was for sale. The Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests began a successful fundraising campaign to save the notch, selling its trees in exchange for a certificate of purchase for every tree protected. Further concern about the Old Mans future was expressed beginning in the late 1950s, when the state recommended extending Interstate 93 through Franconia Notch.

The Old Man became the states most recognizable symbolthe Legislature adopted it as the state emblem in 1945, and it still appears on the state quarter, highway signs, license plates, and souvenirs. The Legislature passed a bill this session that would remember the Old Man with an annual proclamation on May 3. Gov. Chris Sununu signed it into law Wednesday.

Fundraising began for a memorial soon after the Old Man tumbled. Today, visitors to Franconia Notch State Park can see the Old Mans profile through a series of steel rods driven into a granite base that hang over a lake and point toward the cliff. Each has a series of irregular shapes on the side. When visitors position themselves correctly with the shapes, they can view an outline of the profile of a face.

A plaza has granite paving stones with donors names and messages. A scavenger hunt with prizes is planned this summer. People from all over the world have shared their memories on the website, Fowler said.
Rather than disrupt the menstrual cycle, as hormonal forms of birth control do, the vaccine uses the immune system to prevent pregnancy by blocking fertilization.

This article was originally published by The Defender Childrens Health Defenses News & Views Website

Humanitys first contraceptive vaccine is already in clinical trials, according to an article published this week in The Atlantic.

Reporter Katherine J. Wu, Ph.D., described the vaccine, as envisioned by its developer Professor Gursaran Pran Talwar, stating that it would be:

A new form of contraception that could block pregnancy without the usual trade-offsan intervention thats long-acting but reversible; cheap, discreet, and easy to administer; less invasive than an intrauterine device and more convenient than a daily pill. It would skip messy, sometimes dangerous side effects, such as weight gain, mood swings, and rare but risky blood clots and strokes. It would embody the sort of set it and forget it model thats become a gold standard for health.

Rather than disrupting the menstrual cycle, as hormonal forms of birth control do, the vaccine uses the immune system to prevent pregnancy by blocking fertilization.

Talwar first developed the vaccine and patented a version of it in the early 1990s. That version, meant to be effective for two years before a booster was needed, was reported to be nearly 100 percent effective.

Talwar, former director of Indias National Institute of Immunology, told Wu he developed the vaccine because he knew women in India who were struggling to feed large families, but were unhappy with existing forms of contraception.

He said he wanted to make something, free of all problems, so he created a vaccine that would neutralize the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone, known as the pregnancy hormone because it is necessary for fertilized eggs to implant.

But Brian Hooker, Ph.D., P.E., chief scientific officer for Childrens Health Defense, said such a vaccine doesnt just have problems, It is an absolutely horrible idea.

Hooker told The Defender:

So much can go wrong by immunizing a woman with hCG identical to the hormone she produces, or men with sperm proteins to attack their own sperm at the production site. The big question that comes to mind is reversibility. It is very difficult to turn off an immune response complete with memory B-cells after it has been turned on. My fear is that many would be left permanently sterile from this type of vaccine. Also, the problems posed by this technology related to autoimmunity are myriad. Essentially, by coaxing the body to attack human proteins, you also put human tissues, including primarily vital reproductive organs, in the line of fire for many harsh inflammatory processes associated with an immune response. This is one bad idea!

Mary Lou Singleton, midwife and family nurse practitioner, also raised safety concerns. She told The Defender:

This would be the first vaccine designed to provoke an immune response against a normal, healthy bodily process. Like all living organisms that reproduce sexually, the human body is organized around our reproductive potential. We have no idea what the long-term consequences of programming the immune system to attack the part of our body that sustains early pregnancy may be, but we do know that the history of medicine is full of unintended consequences.

The Atlantic article didnt focus on possible health risks. Instead, it touted Talwar et al.s 1994 vaccine clinical trial, where only 1 of 119 women in the study became pregnant.

The limitations, Wu said, are in the fact that although they didnt get pregnant, about 20 percent of the women did not produce the threshold amount of antibodies for the trial to be successful. This would be considered sufficiently effective for a regular vaccine, Wu wrote, but for contraception, expectations are higher.

Another limitation she noted is that a three-shot series could be cumbersome.

But, she wrote, There is some reason to think these issues arent insurmountable, because immunocontraceptives have been used for decades by wildlife scientists to prevent pregnancies as a more humane alternative to culling.

Immunocontraception has primarily been used on captive animals, but it also has been used for population control of some wild species such as white-tailed deer, wild horses, bison, and elephants, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

Dr. Julie Levy, a feline infectious disease expert at the University of Florida who has worked on immunocontraceptives in animals described the challenge of creating an effective contraceptive vaccine as trying to immunize an animal against itself.

Wu also mentioned that the hCG vaccine has encountered some issues with tolerability, in that some women develop painless but prominent nodules, which she said indicates the adjuvants in the vaccine are riling up the immune system a tad too much.

That means scientists will have to tinker with dosing or ingredients, before the vaccine is ready, she wrote.

But, she argued this vaccine is important because it could fill clear gaps in the contraceptive market.

Nearly half of the worlds pregnancies are unplanned, and access to existing contraception is inconsistent, inequitable, and still stymied by stigma and misinformation, she said.

Drawing on an interview with Debanjana Choudhuri, director of Programs and Partnerships at Indias Foundation for Reproductive Health Services, Wu added:

A temporary contraception, packaged into a super-safe vaccine, could offer convenience and privacy, with potential appeal for young urbanites, who have already been enthusiastic about injectable contraceptives and might not mind getting boosts. Most important, adding a vaccine to the repertoire gives people another choice.

Pregnancy Is Not a Disease

The real challenge to launching a birth control vaccine, Wu wrote, is that some might stigmatize it because of the history of contraception imposed on women, particularly the poor, mentally ill, and people of color, without their consent or to their detriment.

Sanghamitra Singh, Ph.D., the policy and program lead at the Population Foundation of India, told Wu that pregnancy is not a disease.

Wu conceded that vaccination against pregnancy might unintentionally imply that pregnancy is a problem to be eradicated and that could stigmatize the shot.

Singleton said she also had concerns about potential abuse.

She added:

People in power all over the world continue to curtail the reproductive rights of women through forced and coerced long-term contraception and sterilization. As anti-natalism and concerns about overpopulation rise among the ruling classes, will this technology be added to state-mandated vaccination schedules for teenagers, immigrant women, poor women, or other groups labeled high-risk for undesired pregnancy?

Wu also conceded that the administration of the vaccine could raise the specter of the eradication of fertility in societys most vulnerable subsects, because, according to Lisa Campo-Engelstein, Ph.D., a reproductive bioethicist at the University of Texas Medical Branch, the ease of administering it might mean it would be more likely to be given without fully informed consent.

This might be a problem, Wu pointed out, in todays climate where many people are already disinclined toward shots, especially amid false accusations that other immunizations compromise fertility.

But recent Pfizer data obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests showed a link between the COVID-19 vaccine and miscarriage and birth defects.

Pfizers animal studies for the vaccine showed major red flags regarding both pregnancy loss and fetal abnormalities.

The documents also revealed that the drugmaker elected not to follow up the vast majority of pregnancies in the original human trials, despite high miscarriage rates in the minority they did follow.

Singleton said the question of vaccine safety was already difficult to discuss, and combining that with a discussion of contraception could raise even more challenges.

She said:

As has become evident over the past few years, mainstream society allows no dialogue or critique on the subject of vaccine safety. Already it is difficult for womens health activists to broach the topic of the safety and long-term effects of hormonal contraception. Combining the medical sacred cows of birth control and contraception seems like a recipe for a medical intervention no one will be allowed to question.

Wus article attributes the fact that Talwars vaccine has made little progress since the early 90s to bad timing. He only recently got approval to run trials on his new vaccine recipe. But, she reported the research is moving forward and may also be directed toward immunotherapy for certain cancers.

This article was originally published by The DefenderChildrens Health Defenses News & Views Website under Creative Commons license CC

BY-NC-ND 4.0. Please consider subscribing to The Defender or donating to Childrens Health Defense.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Epoch Health welcomes professional discussion and friendly debate. To submit an opinion piece, please follow these guidelines and submit through our form here.
Millions of children who missed routine vaccinations during the pandemic may be vaccinated as part of The Big Catch-up, a global initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners.

The pandemic saw essential immunization levels decrease in over 100 countries, leading to rising outbreaks of measles, diphtheria, polio, and yellow fever, wrote the WHO in its media statement published on April 24. The WHO previously reported that more than 25 million children missed routine vaccination in 2021 (pdf).

Though the WHO attributes the rise in infectious diseases to fallen immunization rates, some studies have reasoned that the lockdowns reduced peoples exposure to infectious diseases and may have left individuals to emerge from the pandemic with compromised immune systems. Another reason put forward is that the COVID-19 vaccinations may have led to immune suppression, making people more susceptible to future infections.

Nevertheless, with The Big Catch-up launched in April, the health organization aims to boost vaccination levels in children to at least pre-pandemic levels and endeavors to exceed those.

Many global health organizations are involved with the initiative, including the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI).

Speaking at the Fortunes Brainstorm Health Conference in April, Chelsea Clinton, vice chair of the CHAI, said that the program would last 18 months and hoped it would be one of the largest childhood immunization effort ever.

The WHO listed pandemic restrictions, health care burdens, and limited financial and human resources as reasons for fallen vaccination rates.

Ongoing challenges like conflicts, climate crises, and vaccine hesitancy also contributed to the decline in coverage rates, the WHO added.

I spent a lot of time thinking about the really unfortunate  rise in not only, kind of, vaccine hesitancy and questioning, but outright, kind of, rejection of vaccines and science, and the scientific, kind of, process, Clinton said at the presentation, warning in April 2023 that compared to January 2020, Were less prepared today.

A research letter published in June 2022 in the New England Journal of Medicine observed that safety concerns and mistrust of COVID-19 vaccines or the government may have caused a spillover effect in influenza vaccination rates.

Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that vaccination rates in kindergarteners have steadily dropped from 95 percent in the 201920 school year to 94 percent in 202021, then to 93 percent in 2022.

Clinton has been vocal about COVID-19 vaccine misinformation. In August 2021, Clinton posted on Twitter that vaccines save lives, adding that this statement has become controversial in an era rife with disinformation.

Vaccines save lives. This shouldnt be a controversial statement, and yet  in an era rife with disinformation  to many it is. Looking forward to speaking with Dr. @celinegounder, Senator @amyklobuchar and @HealthierGens Donna Crawford about confronting vaccine disinformation. https://t.co/X4WsVZHDUI  Chelsea Clinton (@ChelseaClinton) August 9, 2021

The safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines have come under question after an unprecedented rise in reported vaccine adverse events. According to a December 2022 survey by Rasmussen Reports, over half of the 1,000 people surveyed were concerned that the COVID-19 vaccines had major side effects.

Several studies showed that repeat COVID-19 vaccinations are linked with a higher risk of subsequent COVID-19 infection.

Clinton also participated in an April 10 podcast alongside Dr. Paul A. Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and co-inventor of the RotaTeq rotavirus vaccine.

On the podcast, Clinton and Offit discussed challenges in closing the gap in adolescent vaccination and talk[ed] with teen advocates about their needs and challenges in helping adolescents advocate for their health.

Dr. Chris Elias, president of global development at the Gates Foundation, said, We must double-down to reach all children with the vaccines they need to live healthier lives and ensure that future generations live free of preventable diseases like polio.

Other partners involved with The Big Catch-up include Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the WHOs Immunization Agenda 2030.

Dr. Seth Berkley, CEO of Gavi, commented on the WHOs statement: We cannot allow a legacy of the pandemic to be the undoing of many years work protecting more and more children from deadly, preventable, preventable diseases. Global health partners, working with governments and communities, must do everything we can to protect the life of every child.

Berkley has previously praised efforts to combat misinformation on the internet and the WHOs decision to extend the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
How Business Embraces Marxism Under the Guise of Diversity

Commentary

Disney higher-ups have been found admitting to indoctrinating children in radical sexual and gender ideology. The Carhartt work clothes company required its more than 3,000 employees to be vaccinated for COVID-19, despite conceding that we are aware some of our associates do not support this policy. Keurig Dr Pepper Inc., the third-largest soft drink company on the continent and owner of Snapple, acceded to George Soros-financed activists and pulled ads for conservative Sean Hannitys prime-time Fox show during Donald Trumps first year as president.

This is but a tiny sample of businesses in America going woke in recent years. Many of them apparently think theyre eradicating racism, embracing diversity, and keeping up with the times; obviously, theyre forgetting or disregarding the millions of consumers who support and defend traditional family values, but less appreciated is that these firms, by supporting the lefts extremist cultural agenda, are also ingesting a slow poison to wither away their own, and everybody elses, economic freedom.

Few, even among conservatives with an eye on political affairs, realize it, but wokeness is a clever adaptation of Marxism for circumstances in the twenty-first century, now that social media facilitates the lefts instantaneous slander of those who stray from the radical party line. It has its roots in Goethe Universitys Frankfurt School of Critical Theory, as it is now called. What began as a straightforward Marxist study group refocused in the 1930s under the influence of leftist academics like Max Horkheimer toward a mission to examine the entire material and spiritual culture of mankind and ultimately revolutionize the entirety of society. This meant straying beyond class differences in fomenting conflict to other social distinctions; today, that means race and sexual deviation.

And there is no question that Horkheimer was a genuine locked-and-loaded Marxist revolutionary. The revolution wont happen with guns, he declared nearly a century ago, rather it will happen incrementally, year by year, generation by generation. We will gradually infiltrate their educational institutions and their political offices, transforming them slowly into Marxist entities as we move toward universal egalitarianism.

Fast forward to today: Charles A. Price, associate professor in the Department of Policy, Organization and Leadership Studies at Temple Universitys College of Education and Human Development in Philadelphia, describes the shift in focus perfectly clearly, stating that in order to understand modern society, you have to pay attention to the power relationships among members and groups. First, we got critical legal studies, which challenged the idea that the law is fair and impartial. As that tradition developed, there were other scholars who came along and said, We need to go a step further and add race because race and power in the United States are inseparable. So critical race theory developed and, according to Price, has now become a tool and a political struggle  [Critical race theory] has an activist orientation and partially grew out of this understanding that social movements can generate change.

Claudio Corradetti, associate professor of political philosophy and international relations at the University of Rome, who studies the role of capitalism in society, has also described, if not altogether explicitly, the link between Marxism and todays omnipresent fanning of the flames of group division. He cites critical social theorys unmasking wrong rationalizations of present or past injustices such as regarding race and sex vis-a-vis the normativity of utopian idealizations.

And the liberal University of California at Berkeleys website states that the courses of its program in critical theory (a) explore the concept of critique in German idealism and Marxism; (b) provide intensive exposure to the Frankfurt School and its legacies; and (c) robustly engage contemporary forms of critical theory, as well as to debates on social norms.

In addition to wokeisms emphasis on group identity carrying over from Marxisms class identity, another important resemblance to the ideology of Soviet Russia and Xi Jinpings China is wokeisms abhorrence of the norms of rational discourse. Twitter mobs canceling their targets may not produce actual blood, but the similarity to the intolerance of Chairman Maos Cultural Revolution is undeniable. American companies embracing wokeness, moreover, is paralleled in the Chinese Communist Partys exploitation of capitalist practices.

Whats more, Fredrich Engels, Karl Marxs early collaborator, was just as hostile to the institution of the traditional family as woke activists are today, mockingly claiming that the father in the home represents the bourgeois and his wife represents the proletariat.

Vladimir Lenin described how communists were allowed to engage in internal debates, but that once a decision was made by the party, dissent was not tolerated, to the point of the dissident losing his life. The principle of democratic centralism and autonomy for local Party organizations implies universal and full freedom to criticize, Lenin stated in an instance of doublethink that George Orwell may well have been thinking of when he wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four, so long as this does not disturb the unity of a definite action; it rules out all criticism which disrupts or makes difficult the unity of an action decided on by the Party. Debate behind closed doors, but be silent in the open air.

American businesses are embracing Marxs doctrines in a new guise, with race and other sources of disparity replacing class. The objective is the same for woke fanatics as that of any communist: to tear down our civilized, ordered society based on libertyincluding destroying those very businesses that are today serving as useful, self-destructive fools.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Investors Should Prepare for Threat of a Minsky Moment, Says Economist

The logo of Credit Suisse on a building in Zurich, Switzerland, on April 4, 2023. (Pierre Albouy/Reuters)

Investors should prepare for months of market readjustments due to the imminent threat of a Minsky Moment, said a top economist.

The Minsky moment is named after economist Hyman Minskys description of a precipitous drop in asset prices after a build-up of debt.

Ludovic Subran, the chief economist at Allianz, formerly worked at the World Bank and Frances finance ministry.

He stated that a sudden financial accident could lead to a global economic disaster. We have all the ingredients of a so-called Minsky moment, Subran told Bloomberg Television on May 8.

You see that everywhere. These liquidity pools or liquidity crunches are starting to be visible.

Credit Crunch Will Tank Global Economy

Analysts have expressed concern over the liquidity markets since the start of a series of bank failures in March.

Silvergate Capital, Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank, Credit Suisse, and First Republic have all been absorbed by their competitors since their collapse over the past two months.

The failures sent shockwaves across the financial system, with regional lenders nationwide losing their value as depositors panicked.

Subrans reference to the Minsky moment and his list of associated risks explain how the circumstances that gave rise to the banking crisis still remain a major threat to economic stability.

Of course, the commercial real estate and the doom loop with the regional banks in the U.S. is a concern, he added, referring to the phenomenon of when one bad event triggers another, worsening the first.

Im concerned about the mispricing of corporate-credit risk, especially when I think that high-yield spreads are still too compressed, to be honest. And Im also looking at the non-bank financial intermediaries.

He explained that the sudden shift in central bank monetary policies over the past year, as seen with aggressive interest-rate hikes, are responsible for the current economic tensions, but he also said that other factors are at play.

Everybodys problem now is the very abrupt tightening, but then there is an additional layer of wrong risk management, said Subran.

A new financial accident could come from the banking sector, it could come from some very specialized hedge funds in commercial real estate, but it could come from a mixture of those two, and that investors are in for a bumpy ride.

We dont think we are in the remake of the global financial crisis [0f 200809], but I think these release moments, these cathartic moments are going to be more frequent in the next few months for sure, Subran concluded.

US Economy Will Probably Face Hard Landing by Mid-2023

A team of strategists at Allianz, led by Subran, predicted last month during an interview with Business Insider that the U.S. economy would freefall into a recession by the second half of the year.

Allianz predicted in April that U.S. GDP would shrink 1 percent between mid- and late 2023 and warned that rapidly tightening credit conditions, exacerbated by the banking crisis, would fuel a downturn.

Subrans team warned that the Federal Reserves hawkish monetary policy and increasing wariness by the banks to issue loans would squeeze credit flows, setting the stage for a recession.

The report added that continuous turmoil in the regional banking sector would worsen the credit crunch, causing the American economy to spiral toward a crash landing.

If more regional lenders start to fail, it would lead the industry to become more risk-averse and result in a pullback in lending, making it harder for Americans to access credit. In turn, a lack of credit would lead to a fall in spending and investment, which would weigh on the nations overall economic health.

The strategists noted that a sharp drop in deposits over the past year had already wiped out $472 billion from the nations total money supply, which may spell doom for future financing conditions.

Banks have been curtailing the supply of credit to the private sector, and low confidence in the financial sector will likely make them even more conservative, wrote the analysts, who added, in postWorld War II history, this is a unique event.

While credit growth has still held up, a significant decline in bank lending seems inevitable amid the collapse of monetary aggregates, they concluded.
Japans PM Vows Stronger Cooperation in Landmark Visit to South Korea

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during a joint press conference after their meeting at the presidential office in Seoul, May 7, 2023. (Jung Yeon-je/Pool Photo via AP)

Japans Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has vowed to deepen cooperation with South Korea to tackle escalating global security challenges in the region as he became the first Japanese leader to visit the country in more than a decade.

Kishida met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on May 7 for a second time since their meeting in Tokyo in March, when both promised to turn the page on years of animosity over their countries wartime disputes.

The situation in the international community makes cooperation between Japan and the ROK all the more indispensable, Kishida said at a joint news conference, referring to South Koreas official name, the Republic of Korea.

The Japanese leader said the two governments agreed on the need to strengthen security cooperation to address North Koreas ongoing provocative actions, while keeping the door open for dialogue.

Our shuttle diplomacy continues. Two weeks from now, I will welcome President Yoon to Hiroshima [for the G-7 summit], he said. We confirmed our close cooperation on various issues facing the international community.

Kishida said negotiations on reviving their countries military intelligence-sharing pact were in progress to counter the North Korean socialist regimes nuclear and missile threats. The pact, signed in 2016, had been stalled since 2019 due to their wartime forced-labor dispute.

The Japanese leader expressed that his heart aches for the many Koreans who suffered through a very difficult and sad experience in the harsh environment of Japans 19101945 colonial rule.

There are various histories between Japan and South Korea, but it is important for Japan to carry on the efforts of its predecessors who overcame difficult times and to cooperate with President Yoon and South Korea toward the future, he said.

Yoon said the cooperation between Japan and South Korea is essential not only for the common interests of both countries but also for world peace and prosperity, citing the grave international situation.

In a situation where liberal democracy, which has been the foundation of peace and prosperity in the international community, is under threat. Korea and Japan, which share universal values, must work together in the international community with stronger validity, Yoon told reporters.

South Koreas government had earlier decided to use local funds to compensate victims of forced labor instead of pushing Japanese companies to pay compensation in order to improve ties with Japan.

The finance ministers of both countries also agreed to revive their summit at an appropriate time this year, which had been stalled for more than seven years due to the countries wartime disputes.

The Washington Declaration

U.S. President Joe Biden (R) welcomes South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to the White House during an arrival ceremony in Washington, on April 26, 2023. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Kishidas visit to South Korea came days after Yoon concluded his six-day visit to the United States on April 29, during which Yoon signed the Washington Declaration with President Joe Biden to reaffirm their countries 70-year treaty.

The Washington Declaration outlines a set of U.S. extended deterrence measures, which will involve deploying U.S. strategic assetsnuclear forceson the Korean Peninsula.

Biden warned that any nuclear attack by North Korea against the United States or its allies is unacceptable and will result in the end of whatever regime.

In the declaration, South Korea expressed full confidence in U.S. extended deterrence commitments, and Washington pledged to make every effort to consult with South Korea on any possible nuclear weapons employment in the region.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to make the United States and South Korea realize that they are bound to lose more than they get and face a greater threat over their expansion of war drills in the region.

The country has conducted a series of missile launches this year, including one involving a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-18, and launched its nuclear-capable underwater drone.

The United States has persisted in engaging in direct talks with North Korea without preconditions in favor of a diplomatic solution, but North Korea rebuffed these efforts.
Two celebrated belles of mid-19th century Parisian society were Louise de Broglie, Countess dHaussonville, and Josephine-Eleonore-Marie-Pauline de Galard de Brassac de Bearn, Princesse de Broglie. They were les belles-surs, sisters-in-law, and each was immortalized in spectacular portraits by the renowned French painter Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. These paintings now reside respectively at The Frick Collection and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and are emblematic of their institutions, frequently used as publicity images, and beloved by visitors.

Ingres, esteemed by scholars as the preeminent 19th-century portraitist and one of art historys greatest draftsman, trained in the Neoclassical style under Jacques-Louis David. Building on this Neoclassical framework, Ingres developed his own original, distinctive style. Drawing on elements of Romanticism and Middle Eastern designs, he created artworks that are always refined and beautiful. Ingress precise draftsmanship demonstrated his neoclassical training under David, however his stylized contours and anatomical elongations asserted his originality and set the stage for the later Romantic movement in art.

These fundamental stylistic qualities can be seen in Ingress brilliantly splendid portraits of the Countess dHaussonville and Princesse de Broglie. These portraits were painted in the latter part of his life when he was at the height of his artistic powers.

The Captivating Countess

Louise, Princesse de Broglie, Later the Comtesse dHaussonville, 1845, by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. Oil on canvas, 51 7/8 inches by 36 1/4 inches. The Frick Collection, New York City. (Public Domain)

In the early 1840s, Ingres was asked to paint the Countess dHaussonville. At first, he was reluctant to do so, as he was tired of making portraits and instead was keen to focus on more ambitious, grand-scale paintings. However, he found his subject irresistible and her familys power and status persuasive, so he accepted the commission. The countess was a charming and highly intelligent woman, the granddaughter of celebrated salon hostess and writer Madame de Stael, and herself an accomplished writer, watercolorist, and musician.

The creation of the portrait began in 1842 and Louise, Princesse de Broglie, Later the Comtesse dHaussonville was finished three years later. This drawn-out process was typical of Ingress detailed, measured pace and perfectionism. The artist began with a series of preparatory drawings, producing a great number of sketches that include full-scale studies of the countesss left arm, her head, and its mirrored reflection. In the final portrait, Ingres depicts the countess with elongated proportions and an anatomically unrealistic right arm that is too low, but these were deliberate artistic choices made in order to form a more harmonious composition and create an impossible idealized beauty.

Studies for the portrait of the Comtesse D Haussonville, 18421845, by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres. Graphite and black chalk on cream paper glued down to a sheet of mulberry paper. (Art Renewal Center)

Ingres depicts the countess in her luxuriously appointed boudoir. She leans against an upholstered fireplace and appears to have just returned from a night at the opera. Opera glasses and an evening bag lie on the mantel and her discarded wrap sits on a chair. These accoutrements and the rooms furnishings are as elegantly depicted as the sitter.

The work is a symphony of blues with accents of rich, warm reds and yellowsall created by seamless, precise brushwork. Her gold bracelet and ring are set with turquoise, bringing in another shade of blue. Her snake-shaped ring is in a style known as a la Cleopatre. Egyptomania swept France following Napoleons turn-of-the-century Egyptian campaign and continued throughout the 19th century and beyond, notably influential in the jewelry arts.

The countesss thoughtful and beguiling gaze draws the viewer in, yet she remains tantalizingly enigmatic. The finished portrait was greeted by great critical acclaim and was treasured by the comtesse until her death.

The Pious Princess

Josephine-Eleonore-Marie-Pauline de Galard de Brassac de Bearn (18251860), Princesse de Broglie, 185153, by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres. Oil on canvas; 47 3/4 by 35 3/4 inches. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. (Public Domain)

The grand success of the countesss portrait inspired her brother, Albert de Broglie, to commission the artist to paint his own wife a few years into their marriage. History repeated itself: initially, Ingres was reluctant, then he relented, and the resulting portrait was received with praise and hailed as a masterpiece.

The highly respected young Princess de Broglie was famously shy, a pious Catholic, and author of several Christian volumes. Ingres, in what was to be his penultimate portrait, shows her piety via the cross pattee design on her necklaces gold pendant. The pendant itself is shaped like a bulla, an ancient Roman protective amulet. It may have been made by the Roman jeweler Fortunato Pio Castellani, who launched the archeological revival jewelry style in the mid-19th century, or by the French jewelry house, Mellerio dits Meller, founded in the 17th century and the oldest extant jewelry house in the world. Ingres personally selected the pearl necklace the princess wore, precisely arranging its graceful drape. These jewels, along with the portraits seed pearl earrings and ruby and diamond bracelet, remained in the princesss family for generations.

Key compositional elements in the painting of the countess are similarly found in the princess portrait. Blue, again, dominates the canvas, in the form of her exquisite satin ball gown, but here it is an icy shade whose coolness is offset by the silky golden chair. The large crinoline underskirt acts like armor to prevent the viewer from getting too close to the shy and inscrutable woman.

Detail of jewelry in Josephine-Eleonore-Marie-Pauline de Galard de Brassac de Bearn (18251860), Princesse de Broglie, 185153, by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres.

In this highly personalized setting, the princess is elegantly posed leaning against an object, this time a chair laden with a gold embroidered shawl, mother-of-pearl fan, gloves, and a black velvet cape trimmed with fringe, jet beads, and feathers. Ingres brandishes his virtuosic painterly skill in these magnificently rendered realistic elements. The paintings realism is balanced by deceptively flattened and elongated forms. Galitz writes, the virtuoso rendering of the multiple folds of her silk skirt, the tufted damask chair, and the marabou feathers of her hair ornament counter the mannered elongation of her arms, her seemingly boneless fingers, and her idealized face.

The princesss noble oval face, like porcelain, is dominated by deep-set eyes with an air of melancholiaprescient as a few years after the painting was finished, she became ill with tuberculosis and died, leaving behind her five sons and devastated husband, who had her painting draped in fabric the rest of his life.

Museum Poster Girl

Ingress painting Louise, Princesse de Broglie, Later the Comtesse dHaussonville, hanging at the Frick Collection in New York City. (Angela Weiss/Getty Images)

Both Louise, Princesse de Broglie, Later the Comtesse dHaussonville and Josephine-Eleonore-Marie-Pauline de Galard de Brassac de Bearn (18251860), Princesse de Broglie stayed in their families possession into the 20th century. During this time, the portraits were occasionally displayed in exhibitions and these viewings inspired famous artists and the public alike. After the death of the countesss youngest child, her portrait entered The Frick Collection via the Wildenstein gallery in 1927. The picture has since graced the cover of Life magazine and is colloquially known as the Poster Girl of The Frick. The princesss portrait descended through her family until it, too, was sold through Wildenstein to the American banker Robert Lehman, who bequeathed his art collection to The Met in 1958.

Ingres once said that painting a womans portrait was the most difficult thing to do: It cant be done. Its enough to make one weep. Yet for all his protestations and reluctance to take the Haussonville and Broglie commissions, he created captivating portraits of two sphinxlike beauties who continue to enchant us today.
Mass Movements Frighten the CCP, Activist Says

Hundreds of protesters gather to call out Beijing's draconian "zero-COVID" policy and brutal persecution of religious and ethnic minorities on Dec. 3, 2022. (The Epoch Times)

Ou Ronggui, one of the initiators and participants of the Guangzhou democratic movementthe Southern Street Movement (Movement), is living in exile in New Zealand after years of multiple imprisonments for his aspirations in democratic activities in China.

Ou recently gave his account of the Movement to the Chinese language edition of The Epoch Times.

The Movement was centered on the streets of Guangzhou, a southern metropolis, where activists demanded democracy by holding banners and chanting slogans.

He explained why the series of movements in Guangzhou had imposed the greatest threat to the CCP.

Ou, 37, said most Chinese who attempt to defend their rights are not aware that they are falling into a trap set by the regime.

He referred to the massive number of Chinese seeking justice and filing complaints to the petition office, Letters and Visits Bureau, in Beijing. Rather than getting their problems resolved, petitioners are only met with ever-intensifying oppression.

Ou reminded people they are fighting against an evil regime, not a government.

He stressed that it is a cult that people are dealing with.

Early Enlightenment

Ou was born in the countryside of Guilin, Guangxi, bordering Vietnam in south China. He seemed to have an innate immunity to the CCP. As a child, when his playmates worshiped Mao Zedong, he had doubts in his heart.

He learned about the authoritarian nature of the CCP when he filed for his first resident ID at a police station at the age of 16.

He recalled that the experience taught him the CCP is not serving the people.

Ou and several enthusiastic young Chinese took their democratic ideas from the internet to the streets. The Movement in 2011 and 2012 resulted in multiple arrests for Ou and the participants.

He also experienced harassment from state security on the eve of June 4the annual 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre memorial.

Yan Xiong (2nd R), one of the 21 most-wanted Tiananmen Square protesters from 1989, speaks with local pro-democracy leaders before taking part in a demonstration on the streets of Hong Kong on May 31, 2009. (Samantha Sin/AFP via Getty Images)

In 2016, Ou was sentenced to a year of imprisonment for a protest against a forced demolition in Guangxi Province.

Meeting obstacles when trying to get himself an apartment in Guangzhou were routine for Ou. His electronic key card was constantly deactivated and access to his apartment was often denied.

In May 2020, the traffic police intended to impound his truck and wanted him to leave Guangzhou. In March this year, Ou finally arrived in New Zealand.

Chinese Jasmine Movement

Following the 2011 Jasmine Movement in the Middle East, the Chinese Jasmine Movement also emerged in China.

The fall of Libyan leader Moammar Gaddafi in August 2011 excited Chinese democracy activists.

Protests took place in Guangzhou on Aug. 28, 2011, when Hu Jintao was the chairman of CCP.

They held a banner stating, Celebrating the downfall of dictator Gaddafi, projecting their demand to bring down the CCP.

Liu Yuandong, a democracy activist, spoke up, saying step down Hu Jintao and why do we have a one-child policy?

The police interrupted their gathering, and more than a dozen young activists were arrested. The whole protest only lasted for around 10 minutes. Later that evening they were released.

A petitioner is approached by police outside the hospital where Chinese activist Chen Guangcheng is staying in Beijing on May 5. The woman, who expressed displeasure with the Chinese regimes treatment of petitioners, asked to visit Chen. (Ed Jones/AFP/GettyImages)

Free Chen Guancheng

In September 2011, they formed another protest to support the human rights lawyer Chen Quangcheng.

Chen, a blind activist best known for his fight against Chinas one-child policy and an advocate for womens rights, was jailed in 2006.

When Chen was finally released in 2010, the CCP kept him under house arrest.

In September 2011, The Southern Street activists voiced their support for Chen by putting on a shirt that was printed with Chens image behind bars with the slogan Free Chen Guancheng. Ou said many of the activists in the event were imprisoned.

Chinas Dream of Constitutionalism

In 2013, Southern Weekly issued a New Years Greeting editorial entitled, Chinas Dream, the Dream of Constitutionalism, signaling an open confrontation between Chinese journalists and state propaganda.

The editorial was soon censored and the publisher was suppressed.

Two days later, many people expressed their support for the Southern Weekly journalists. The members of the Southern Street Movement also held their slogan of Strive for Press freedom, Build a Democratic China.

Members of the Movement again faced the regimes retaliation in March 2013, Ou said.

Liu Yuandong, for instance, was arrested in 2013. He was sentenced to three years in prison for the crime of gathering crowds to disturb social order. Liu, a biologist, quietly ran his company after he was released from prison.

Wang Aizhong, as another example, was also arrested in 2013. He was detained again in 2021 on the charge of picking quarrels and provoking trouble due to his online remarks.

Wangs wife revealed on Chinese social media that Wang has been kept in detention without any legal process to this day, according to Ou.

Civil Movements Hit CCP Hard

Ou believes that a true movement is unstoppable; especially if it is initiated by an organization. Strictly speaking, a movement has a defined goal.

Like the White Paper Movement, it aimed to lift the lockdowns; however, if it were led by a democracy activist, the movement would become an issue of freedom and democracy, not just to ease the city lockdown, he said.

He explained that movement is a form of peoples power. The CCP is good at manipulating movements by initiating, controlling, and guiding the direction of the peoples power, such as during the Cultural Revolution.

But the CCP wont allow movements from the grassroots or from the society at any level.

Any external movement hits the CCPs nerve system, It becomes extremely worrisome to the regime, he said.

Ou said the pandemic controls were the CCPs most blatant and coercive control of society, as billions of people were locked up in their homes.

However, the White Paper Movement challenged the regime and forced the CCP to end the lockdown quickly.

Thats why we must initiate the movement from outside, preventing its manipulation and control. It will hit the CCP to some extent, he explained.

The majority of Chinese are tied up by self-interest, he said, But, the civil movements in early years have led the way, and thats how the White Paper Movement took place, and thats what frightens the CCP.

Li Yuanming contributed to this report.
McCaul Threatens Blinken With Contempt Over Afghan Dissent Cable Subpoena

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a press conference at State Department in Washington on April 11, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) has threatened to place Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt of Congress as a result of the probe into the United States departure from Afghanistan.

The House Foreign Affairs chairman sent a May 5 letter to Blinken as part of the latest development in the panels probe.

The committees investigation began earlier this year, eventually leading to McCaul issuing a subpoena to Blinken for a dissent cable sent by U.S. diplomats in Kabul questioning the Biden administrations intentions to remove troops in 2021.

That subpoena, which compels you to produce in unredacted form the Dissent Channel cable sent on or about July 13, 2021, reportedly signed by 23 State Department officials and the official response to it, must be complied with immediately, McCauls letter stated.

Should you fail to comply, the committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding.

The committee initially asked for the documents shortly after the 118th Congress was sworn in earlier this year with McCaul and fellow Republicans making requests of Blinken and four other administration officials, providing a Jan. 26 deadline.

McCaul repeated his request for three pieces of information in a March 3 letter, after which the committee subpoenaed Blinken and his department in March.

The State Department failed to comply with the subpoena by the April 19 deadline that demanded they hand over the dissent cable from the time of the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Officials responded to an April 28 question from The Epoch Times about the cable saying the department was open to giving the committee a briefing and written summary.

Their actions, however, did not satisfy committee members and the State Department again did not comply with a congressional subpoena as of May 1.

Following the dispatch of McCauls letter threatening to hold Blinken in contempt of Congress, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters during a May 8 press briefing that his department finds it unfortunate that after providing a briefing and written summary, the House committee continues to pursue the dissent cable.

The Epoch Times pressed the spokesperson further as to whether the State Department planned to provide a version of the cable that redacts confidential material or anything in the document that could compromise sources or methods and whether the department is prepared to fight the subpoena in litigation.

Patel responded, saying, We are going to continue to engage with Congress appropriately as it relates to their legitimate requests for information and oversight function  [State] feels like it has sufficiently conveyed appropriate information.

Jackson Richman contributed to this report.
Meta Reaffirms Plan to Block News Access in Canada If Bill C-18 Passes

A representative for the tech giant Meta said Monday that the company plans to block access to Canadian news content on its platforms if Parliament passes Bill C-18, which mandates that the company pay news publishers for hosting content.

Ultimately, this legislation puts Meta in an unfavourable situation. In order to comply, we have to either operate in a flawed and unfair regulatory environment, or we have to end the availability of news content in Canada. With a heavy heart, we choose the latter, Kevin Chan, Metas global policy director, said before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage on May 8.

As the Minister of Canadian Heritage has said, this is a business decision. Its not something we want to do, but it is what we will have to do.

Bill C-18, also known as the Online News Act, would require companies like Google and Meta to negotiate deals with Canadian media outlets and pay them for the content they link to on their websites and platforms.

The legislation would also give the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission the power to require media organizations to follow a code of ethics in order to be eligible for news-sharing negotiations with digital platforms. Bill C-18 passed in the House of Commons and is currently being studied in the Senate.

Fundamentally Flawed

Chan alleged Bill C-18 is based on a fundamentally flawed premise because Metawhich owns Facebook and Instagramdoes not benefit unfairly from people sharing links to news content on its platforms.

Publishers choose to share their content because it benefits them to do so, whereas it isnt particularly valuable to us at all, he said, adding that news makes up 3 percent of the content users see in their feeds.

But Chan said news publishers find Metas services valuable, with the company estimating that Facebook Feed sent registered news publishers in Canada more than 1.9 billion clicks in the 12 months to April 2022, which he called free marketing worth more than $230 million.

Of course, everyone wants quality journalism to thrive, but it makes no more sense to claim social media companies are taking money from publishers than to say car companies stole from the horse and cart industry, he said.

Chan said while Canada has a long-standing reputation for believing in multilateralism and defending the free and open internet, Bill C-19 would be a direct contradiction of that long-held and honourable tradition.

He highlighted data from Canadas Parliamentary Budget Officer, which estimates that most of the money generated by Bill C-18 will go to broadcasters and not to local and regional publishers.

Its Robin Hood in reverse, he said. The Act would subsidize big broadcasters at the expense of independent publishers and digital news sites, skewing the playing field so its even harder for smaller players.

Chan said also said that for a social media company to subsidize news publishers for content that isnt important to their users, it would be akin to asking email providers to pay the postal service for people because people dont send letters anymore.

Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez has said the bill is about protecting the future of a free and independent press and ensuring that Canadians have access to fact-based information.

Hearing Title Changed

The Committee had initially asked for Nicholas Clegg, Metas president of global affairs and a former U.K. deputy prime minister, to appear in front of the committee. Clegg failed to show up on May 8 after initially pledging to appear, sending Chan in his place.

Chan said Clegg decided not to appear because the title of the hearing was changed to a much more confrontational one.

A statement from Meta says the hearing was initially titled The Response of Companies in the Information Technology Sector to Bill C-18, but late on May 4 the title was changed to, Tech giants current and ongoing use of intimidation and subversion tactics to evade regulation in Canada and across the world.

Clearly, it would be a very different hearing to the one Nick Clegg was invited to. As such, we have notified the committee that he will no longer be appearing, the statement reads.

The committee agreed to change the name of the study and voted to issue another summons to have Clegg appear.
Michael Taube: Is the Government Listening to CSIS? Thats Not Entirely Clear

Conservative MP Michael Chong rises during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on May 2, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)

Commentary

The recent controversy involving Conservative MP Michael Chong and his family being targeted by China is an enormous issue. For those who have repeatedly questioned Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus commitment to ensuring that safety and security are among Canadas highest priorities, this may be the biggest red flag of them all.

The Globe and Mails Robert Fife and Steven Chase recently published contents of a July 20, 2021, Canadian Security Intelligence Service report that examined Chinas interest in Canada. The nine-page document suggested the former viewed the latter as a high-priority target, had employed incentives and punishment to gain an advantage, and the targeting was expected to continue and increase over time.

CSIS also mentioned that a Chinese Ministry of State Security officer tried to obtain information about a Canadian MPs relatives who may be located in the PRC, for further potential sanctions. This strategy was almost certainly meant to make an example of this MP and deter others from taking anti-PRC positions.

Who was the MP? The report didnt name the individual. Fife and Chase, two of Canadas top investigative journalists, found out. A national-security source, whom The Globe is not naming because they risk prosecution under the Security of Information Act, they wrote on May 1, said the MP targeted was Conservative MP Michael Chong and that Zhao Wei, a Chinese diplomat in Canada, was working on this matter.

Yikes.

Its common knowledge that Chongs relationship with China has been strained for years. Beijing sanctioned the Conservative foreign affairs critic in March 2021 for speaking out against the PRCs disgraceful treatment of the Uyghur Muslims. (The story also received international coverage at the time.) Chong, vice-chair of the Special Committee on the CanadaPeoples Republic of China Relationship, said he would wear it as a badge of honour.

With respect to the CSIS report, Chong said he had no knowledge of this, according to the Globe. He directly said this was more evidence of the PRCs meddling in Canadian democracy and more evidence for Ottawa to take immediate action.

Heres where things got much worse.

Trudeau was grilled about this controversy on May 3. We asked what happened to that information, was it ever briefed up out of CSIS? It was not, the PM told reporters. CSIS made the determination that it wasnt something that needed be raised to a higher level because it wasnt a significant enough concern.

This statement was disproved the next day. By Chong himself, no less.

He told the House of Commons on May 4, I have just been informed by the national security adviser [Jody Thomas] that the CSIS intelligence assessment of July 20, 2021, was sent by CSIS to the relevant departments and to the national security adviser in the PCO. This report contained information that I and other MPs were being targeted by the PRC. This contradicts what the Prime Minister said yesterday.

This jaw-dropping revelation put the floundering federal government on its back heels. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly couldnt mitigate the damage whatsoever. As for Trudeau, he refused to address the contradictions source, saying at a news conference on May 5: Im not going to go into details on that.

Chong brought up another valid point.

CSIS has been advising the government, the departments, the Privy Council Office, the national security adviser and deputy ministers that foreign agents in Canada, foreign diplomats in Canada, are presenting a threat to Canadian MPs in the House of Commons, he said in the House on May 4. In fact, the 2022 intelligence report from CSIS today says, These threat actors must be held accountable for their clandestine activities.  We will also continue to inform national security stakeholders and all Canadians about foreign interference. Why is the government not listening to the advice of CSIS and not listening to the advice in the reports that are being distributed?

Indeed. Why not?

The way the Trudeau Liberals consume information from CSIS, or lack thereof, has been one of this governments most troubling aspects since it took power in 2015. Ottawa often gives off the impression that CSIS reports arent significant or important, but of a lesser value. This hasnt just been the case with China. Previous CSIS warnings about Russia, Iran, and other totalitarian nations have received similar treatment.

CSIS isnt perfect. No organization is. The role they play in protecting Canada from existential threats to our democracy, liberty, and freedom is vital, however. How can the Liberals be trusted on any issue, from foreign election interference to border control, when they dont appear to trust the judgement of intelligence officials who want to help ensure Canada remains safe and secure?

Perception is reality, the late GOP strategist Lee Atwater once said. When it comes to our federal government, their perception of reality is downright frightening.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
More Than 29,000 Albertans Evacuated Due to Wildfires

Smoke from an out-of-control fire near Lodgepole, Alta., is shown in this May 4, 2023, handout photo. (The Canadian Press/Alberta Wildfire)

At approximately 6:30 p.m. local time on May 7, Alberta had 108 active wildfires burning, with 29 considered out of control and 61 under control and contained. Another 22 fires were being held and not expected to grow past expected boundaries.

Officials at an afternoon press conference earlier that day said 16 new wildfires started within the previous 24 hours, with the total area of the province burned this year now over 375,000 hectares.

More than 29,000 individuals have been evacuated to safe locations, Colin Blair, executive director of the Alberta Emergency Management Agency, said at the press conference.

Blair said that in some cases ongoing smoke and fire conditions are preventing officials from fully assessing property loss. We know structures have been lost. But our first priority is protecting lives and dealing with the emergency response, said Blair.

The province maintains a public dashboard providing the status of current and current-year wildfires. Current year wildfires, in 2023, number 405 as of 6:30 p.m. local time. The suspected cause of each fire is also tracked, with human activity indicated for 171, or 42.22 percent, of the current-year wildfires and lightning indicated for 13, or 3.21 percent. The remaining 221, or 54.57 percent, remain under investigation.

Help Coming

Speaking at the press conference, Christie Tucker from Alberta Wildfire said that today weve seen some light scattered showers in the southern part of the province as far north as Fox Creek. The good news is that it did have an impact on fire behaviour today in that area. It allowed firefighters to get a chance to work on the areas of some wildfires that they havent been able to get close to because of extreme wildfire behaviour.

When we see extreme wildfire behaviour, like we have seen in the last few days. It can present challenges that would make it unsafe for firefighters to be in direct proximity with the flame, she said.

When we talk about prioritizing safety and human life, that includes our folks as well. So we have to be sure that firefighters are going to remain and be able to fight the fire as safely as possible, said Tucker.

The province declared a state of emergency on May 6 and the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre moved to a level four response, the highest level, to deal with the situation.

Tucker said an incident management team from British Columbia was on route to help and will take over the wildfire near Edson and the Pembina complex in the northern Rocky Mountain House area.

The province has requested firefighters through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) as well as partners in Montana and other U.S. states, Tucker said. CIFFC is not-for-profit corporation owned and operated by the federal, provincial, and territorial wildland fire management agencies to coordinate resources.

Tucker added that fire alerts and notifications are being supported with a national system.

Close to 80 wildland firefighters arrived in Alberta on May 6 from Quebec and Ontario to assist the province with firefighting efforts, she said.

Prioritizing Safety

Premier Danielle Smith said on Twitter on May 6, The number of wildfires and evacuations has increased again and we must prioritize the safety of Albertans. We are putting all our resources toward fighting these fires.

Smith was at the Alberta Emergency Management Centre in Edmonton at the start of the day on May 7, and afterwards met with Official Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley to keep her informed of the wildfire situation.

Notley was premier at the time of the Fort McMurray fire in 2016, which led to the evacuation of more than 88,000 people and the loss of thousands of homes and businesses.

At times like these, Albertans expect all their elected leaders to work together to help our people, Smith said. She also visited the evacuation centre in Edmonton to meet with affected Alberta families, accompanied by Notley.

Smith toured affected wildfire areas near Entwistle, and said it had rained just a few minutes before her visit.

We are all thankful, Smith said.

Our emergency services personnel are doing everything they can to stop these fires. When Alberta comes together in tough moments like these, we become better. I am thankful for our firefighters, our police officers, our nurses, doctors, paramedics, and every Albertan who has answered the call to help, she said.

Rain to the north and west of Edmonton fell on May 7, with 5 to 12 millimetres of rain recorded in areas on fire in Edson, Hinton, and Jasper. Meteorologists were calling for scattered showers to continue throughout the day. The cooler temperatures and rain are expected to take some of the pressure off firefighters, although provincial officials warn of lightning sparking new fires, reported The Globe and Mail.

Over 8,000 people have been evacuated from Edson and many of those affected are sheltering in Hinton and Jasper, Blair said at the May 7 press conference. Another community affected, Drayton Valley and Brazeau County, evacuated more than 7,000 people, with some 1,000 sheltering at the Edmonton Expo Centre, he added.

Critical power and electricity infrastructure is being threatened and the current priority is the protection of the substation, which powers both Hinton and Jasper and nearby areas, said Blair.

An election is underway in Alberta, with election day set for May 29, and some candidates from areas affected by the fires have announced they are suspending campaign activities on May 6.

Elections Alberta says its closely monitoring the wildfires and evacuations to determine what accommodations need to be made, according to its website.

The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
Falun Gong Adherents Celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York

Over 1,000 adherents of the Falun Dafa spiritual practice celebrated World Falun Dafa Day on Sunday in New York City, sharing their joy with onlookers.

World Falun Dafa Day falls annually on May 13, which is also the birthday of Mr. Li Hongzhi, founder of the practice. The event is celebrated around the world.

This year marked the 31st anniversary of Falun Dafas introduction to the public and the 72nd birthday of Mr. Li.

Falun Dafa practitioners held the celebration at Union Square in Manhattan, which featured artistic performances including from the Tian Guo Marching Band, dragon and lion dancing, Western orchestral music, and traditional Chinese instrument solo performances. Children from the Lotus Primary School recited poems and danced, earning applause from the audience.

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023.(Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Falun Dafa, also known as Falun Gong, is a spiritual self-improvement practice with five slow-moving, gentle exercises and moral teachings of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. It was introduced by Mr. Li in China in 1992 and quickly spread across the country and around the world, following people reporting significant physical and spiritual benefits from the practice.

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

We are here today to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and to showcase the beauty of Falun Dafa to the public, said practitioner Yi Rong from New York. Falun Dafa has been spreading worldwide. Many people in New York are practicing Falun Dafa as well.

Commendations From Lawmakers

Every year on Falun Dafa Day, U.S. lawmakers express their support by commending Falun Dafa.

On April 25, the New York State Senate adopted Resolution 821 to commemorate the 24th Annual World Falun Dafa Day.

Screenshot of New York State Senates commemoration resolution on April 25, 2023. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

U.S. lawmakers at the state, city, and county levels also sent their commendations and congratulatory letters to Falun Dafa practitioners, praising the positive impact that the spiritual practice has brought to the community and the lives of New York State residents, as well as the good that Falun Dafa practitioners have done.

Support From Audience

The performances were both spectacular and diverse, bringing joy and happy surprise to the audience. Two Western spectators, who gave their names as Elizabeth and David, were deeply moved by the performances.

The colors are so pure and rich. The dragon dance was really interesting, and the children loved it, they told the Chinese language edition of The Epoch Times while watching the celebration.

Truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance are virtues, which I think are essential to our life, Elizabeth said, adding that the Chinese Communist Partys (CCPs) persecution of Falun Gong practitioners is unbelievable.

She said it was her first time learning about Falun Dafa and the persecution targeting these peaceful practitioners. Shed like to know more about the practice.

Passers-by take photos as Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Li, a Taiwanese immigrant who has lived in the United States for 45 years, watched the performances attentively. He gave his surname only in the interview with The Epoch Times.

Li does not practice Falun Gong. He said that he supports what Falun Gong practitioners have been doing and is very sympathetic to those who have been persecuted by the CCP since 1999.

I have found that what was reported in the Epoch Times about the CCPs harvesting organs [from Falun Gong practitioners] is true, said Li.

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Li believes that the situation in which many people turn a blind eye to the CCPs atrocities must be stopped and that people must be vigilant.

The free world is also facing significant threats now, and we must do everything we can, he added.

Falun Dafa practitioners march in a parade in San Francisco on May 6, 2023, to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day. (Lear Zhou/The Epoch Times)

The CCP started its persecution of Falun Gong in July 1999 amid the wide popularity of the practice in China. The communist regime initiated a massive nationwide campaign, using various state departments and media outlets to slander and suppress the spiritual practice, and have since then tortured and harvested organs from living Falun Gong practitioners.

An independent peoples tribunal in London concluded in June 2019 that forced organ harvesting has been committed for years throughout China on a significant scale and that Falun Gong practitioners have been oneand probably the mainsource of organ supply.

Justice  Will Never Be Absent: Chinese Tourist

One Chinese tourist spoke anonymously with The Epoch Times, saying that he was impressed by the self-discipline demonstrated by Falun Dafa practitioners. He said that he noted this from details hed seen: while Falun Dafa performers were in the sun, those practitioners who watched the performances sat under the stage and were exposed to the sun for several hours, without standing under the shade as other audiences did.

He told The Epoch Times that the practitioners self-discipline is owing to their inner, firm, strong, and persistent spirit. He and his colleagues, who were also watching the celebrations, had contacted Falun Gong practitioners while they were in China. They are aware of the CCPs persecution and they know that Falun Gong is innocent, according to the tourist.

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

History will record everything, the tourist said. Justice may be late, but it will never be absent.

The celebration lasted for six hours, showcasing Falun Gongs cultural and spiritual traditions, as well as its followers perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.

After the events, practitioners took a group photo at Union Square, expressing their gratitude to Mr. Li Hongzhi for making the practice public, benefiting millions worldwide, and wishing Mr. Li a happy birthday.

Falun Gong practitioners celebrate World Falun Dafa Day in New York City on May 7, 2023.(Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)
Peter Menzies: Instead of Mulling Fox News Ban, CRTC Should Have Banned Chinas CCTV by Now for Airing Forced Confession

A Fox News channel sign is seen at the News Corporation building in New York on June 15, 2018. (Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

Commentary

Canada has become a country that harbours a higher level of tolerance for Chinese communism than it does for American conservatism.

Thats a conclusion thats easy to draw from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commissions (CRTC) May 3 decision to act swiftly on a complaint from the LGBTQ2 advocacy group, Egale, which has asked that Fox News be removed from a list of foreign broadcasters approved for carriage on cable.

If the CRTCwhich regulates broadcasting and the internetagrees, Canadians will no longer be able to subscribe to Fox News through their cable provider.

Egale, a government-funded group which describes itself as Canadas leading organization for 2SLGBTQI people and issues, claims that Tucker Carlson (now departed from Fox) aimed to provoke hatred and violence against 2SLGBTQI communities, particularly those who are Two Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming (2STNBGN).

In the broadcast, Carlson was critical of recent acts of violence such as the Nashville Christian school shooting committed by an individual identifying as trans, and the movements Day of Vengeance.

By airing the segment, Egale claims, Fox was in clear violation of Canadian broadcasting standards and has no place on Canadian broadcasting networks.

Carlson made false and horrifying claims and painted 2STNBGN people as violent and dangerous, according to Egale, and made the inflammatory and false claim that trans people are targeting Christians. To position trans people in existential opposition to Christianity is an incitement of violence against trans people that is plain to any viewer.

The CRTC, Egale said, has established that non-Canadian broadcasters must be held to the same standards as Canadian channels that forbid the highly subjective abusive comment.

Theres plenty more where that came from, but I leave it to you to decide for yourselves and offer your feedback to the CRTC if you wish at its All Proceedings Open for Comment webpage (crtc.gc.ca).



Free speech aside, there are two other deeply troubling aspects to the CRTCs decision.

First, it proves once again that those who argued that free speech advocates had nothing to worry about when Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez gave the CRTC control over the internet were at best misguided and at worst lying.

The defenders of Bill C-11 said the regulator doesnt censor content. And they continued to say that even while they knew the CRTC was about to sanction Radio-Canadain a 2022 decision that came out just after Bill C-11 cleared the House of Commonsfor allowing the use of the N-word in a discussion concerning Pierre Vallieres seminal 1968 book.

They lied.

Because as that decision showed and as was argued by those of us who saw Bill C-11 for what it isa threat to free expressionthe CRTC does act as a censor and is compelled to do so by the wording of the Broadcasting Act.

It does so when, as in the case of Carlson and Fox, it wants to.

And it does so when it is told to, as was the case last year when Rodriguez asked it to consider de-listing Russian propaganda outlet RT.

As I noted at the time, the manner in which the RT issue was managed opened doors the CRTC and Rodriguez shouldnt have opened. But they did and here we are.

Meanwhile, the CRTC and its government appointees have apparently granted themselves the authority to not involve themselves in the censorship of foreign broadcasters when it doesnt want to orif you are deeply cynicalwhen it is quietly told not to.

Just ask Peter Dahlin of the human rights groups Safeguard Defenders. He was arrested and jailed by the Chinese regime and his forced confession was broadcast on CCTV-4, one of several Chinese networks available via cable in Canada.

Writing in the Ottawa Citizen two years ago, an exasperated Dahlin said he asked the CRTC to de-list CCTV-4, which is under direct Communist Party control due to its long-standing practice of airing confessions forced through physical/psychological coercion and torture.

The victims, Dahlin wrote, are imprisoned at secret locations and kept incommunicado in isolation cells for up to half a year in the same fashion Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were held.

The victims speak of months and months of torture to force them to record  on video  confessions, Dahlin wrote.

Dahlin filed his original complaint in December of 2019 and the CRTC hasnt done a thing with it. For three and a half years.

Thats right. The independent regulator can snap to attention when the heritage minister asks, and it can respond withby CRTC standardsunrivalled urgency when a right-leaning American conservative network is the subject of a complaint regarding strong words and hurt feelings.

But for 42 months Canadas regulator has stood, trembling like a deer in the lights of an oncoming Peterbilt, when faced with the prospect of earning the disapproval of the Communist Party of China.

Remember that when they sanction Fox News.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Police Identify Suspect With Extensive Rap Sheet After 8 People Outside Texas Center Killed

The driver accused of running over and killing eight people near a Texas facility holding illegal immigrants was identified as 34-year-old George Alvarez, officials said Monday.

Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda told reporters Monday that Alvarez has been arraigned on eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. On Sunday, reports came in of a Range Rover striking more than a dozen people near a bus stop in front of Brownsvilles Ozanam Center.

Sauceda said Alvarez, who had an extensive rap sheet, ran a red light and lost control of the vehicle, which flipped on its side before it hit the group of pedestrians. Its not clear if the act was intentional and officials are investigating, he said.

The suspect, Sauceda added, then attempted to flee the scene after the crash. He was apprehended by several people and held down, the chief added.

Alvarez is being held on a $3.6 million bond, Sauceda said, adding that the suspect has not been cooperative. Officials are awaiting toxicology reports to determine whether he was under the influence.

During the news conference, Brownsville Police displayed what appeared to be Alvarezs rap sheet, showing a range of charges against him. Previously, Alvarez has been charged with counts of assault, aggravated assault, drug possession, vehicle burglary, driving while intoxicated, theft, resisting arrest, and more, according to a poster that officials displayed Monday.

Officials said Sunday that the victims appeared to mostly be illegal immigrants from Venezuela. A witness, also from Venezuela, told NBC News that he believes the driver shouted an expletive about migrants at the people standing at the bus stop and raised his middle finger at them.

Sauceda told the news outlet that officials couldnt validate claims that Alvarez yelled expletives at the illegal immigrants at the scene. Brownsville, located in the southern portion of Texas, is on the U.S-Mexico border and has seen a surge in illegal immigration in recent years, namely with the reversal and expiration of a range of Trump-era policies.

Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval told reporters on Sunday that police did not know whether the crash was intentional. But the suspect has been largely uncooperative, he also said.

Emergency personnel work at the site of a fatal vehicular collision at a bus stop in Brownsville, Texas, on May 7, 2023. (Brian Svendsen/NewsNation/KVEO-TV via AP)

It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two, Sandoval told reporters. Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released.

Meanwhile, in a Twitter post on Sunday, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Public Affairs Assistant Secretary Marsha Espinosa wrote that Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has been briefed on the tragic situation in Brownsville and has reached out to local leaders to offer condolences and the full support of the Department.

Other Details

Shelter director Victor Maldonado said the SUV ran up onto the curb, flipped, and moved for about 200 feet as it struck pedestrians on the street.

This SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about 100 feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop, said Maldonado, who cited the shelters surveillance video for his claims.

Maldonado then alleged that his shelter has received threats after the fatal mass casualty crash on Sunday. He didnt elaborate.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, Maldonado said.

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas speaks in Brownsville, Texas, on May 5, 2023, about lifting the COVID border restrictions. (Reuters/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

The incident comes just days before the federal Title 42 policy is set to expire, which officials say will likely lead to a widespread surge in illegal crossing of the U.S.Mexico border. Officials in Brownsville, too, have said that there has been a surge in illegal aliens from Venezuela in recent weeks before declaring an emergency.

The declaration is to address the influx of migrants crossing the Texas-Mexico border, south of Brownsville. The declaration extension continues to proactively address the influx of crossings and to support and alleviate the process and transfer of migrants in a humanitarian way; while supporting federal agencies, the city wrote on its website in a recent declaration.

During a visit to the area last week, Mayorkas said that authorities faced extremely challenging circumstances along the border with Mexico days before Title 42 restrictions end. A surge of Venezuelan illegal immigrants through South Texas, particularly in and around Brownsville, has occurred over the last two weeks for reasons that Mayorkas said were unclear.

On Thursday, 4,000 of about 6,000 migrants in Border Patrol custody in Rio Grande Valley, Texas, were Venezuelan. Mayorkas noted that Mexico agreed this week to continue taking back Venezuelans who enter the United States illegally after asylum restrictions end Thursday, along with Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans. Illegal immigrants have been expelled from the United States more than 2.8 million times since March 2020 under what is known as Title 42 authority.

More than 2 million illegal immigrants have been expelled from the U.S.-Mexico border via Title 42, according to reports.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Policeman Involved in Religious Suppression Embraces the Persecuted Faith, Gets Tortured and Injected With Drugs

The drug has rendered the veteran officer's intelligence level to that of a three-year-old

A reenactment of the tiger bench torture method: A Falun Gong adherent is tied to an upside-down table in a position that can inflict unbearable pain and make the victim lose consciousness. (Minghui.org)

A veteran police officer in China who once followed the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) orders to persecute Falun Gong adherents nearly lost his life on facing the same persecution after he began practicing the peaceful meditative system himself.

Before his release, the prison authorities injected him with a nerve-damaging drug in their last-ditch effort to stop him from revealing state secrets: the horrors of practicing faith under tyrannical rule.

Officer Gao Yumin of Fuxin City, Liaoning Province, has more than 20 years of experience in the criminal investigation division of the Fuxin City Police Department. After the CCP initiated an unprecedented persecution of Falun Gong on July 20, 1999declaring the law-abiding adherents as state enemiesGao, like any other law enforcement officer, got officially involved in the violent suppression of the faith.

However, after his frequent on-duty interactions with Falun Gong practitioners who, despite the persecution, stand firm to their faith in the universal values of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance, Gao was moved by their kindness and perseverance. When he received some informational materials at his doorstep about the spiritual practice, he developed a deep admiration for the resilient adherents and the practices moral teachingsand started practicing Falun Gong.

And soon he was subjected to the same brutality that hed felt duty-bound to carry out.

Chinese police officers arrest a Falun Gong practitioner at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on Jan. 10, 2000. (Chien-Min Chung/AP Photo)

Gao was arrested for distributing Falun Gong materials and raising awareness about the persecution in November 2013, according to Minghui.org, a U.S.-based nonprofit website dedicated to the reporting of the persecution in China. While in detention, Gao went on a hunger strike and was beaten and tortured. He was released on medical parole two months later only to be arrested again in February 2014.

He was sentenced to five years in prison, which was reduced to three and a half years after he appealed.

However, two months before Gao was scheduled to be released in 2018, the prison authorities injected him with a high dose of a nerve-damaging drug and beat him until he lost consciousness. His family only learned of his ordeal after he was admitted to the hospital where he remained unconscious for nine days.

A police officer, who was not misled by the CCPs propaganda and had been quietly protecting Falun Gong adherents, hinted to the family that they should get a urine test done; the results showed the drug dosage was high enough to poison him. The drug rendered Gaos intelligence to that of a 3-year-old and he is now dependent on his family for care.

Unfortunately, in the 24-year-long persecution, Gao is not the only law enforcement personnel who has faced this tragic end.

Chinese plain-clothes policemen arrest a Falun Gong practitioner in Tiananmen Square in Beijing as a crowd watches on Oct. 1, 2000. (Chien-min Chung/AP Photo)

According to another Minghui report, a labor camp guard-turned-Falun Gong practitioner also suffered the same fate.

Cui Huifang, a woman in her 50s from Jiamusi City, Heilongjiang Province, was a guard at Jiamusi City Forced Labor Camp when the persecution of Falun Gong started. Brainwashed by the CCPs propaganda, just like Gao, Cui was actively involved in torturing Falun Gong practitioners.

In a report submitted to Minghui.org by Cuis friend, Cui recounted how she once violently pushed down and sat on several Falun Gong practitioners who were doing the meditative exercises in the labor camp. Another time, she punched a nearly 70-year-old adherent for practicing the exercises, causing the elderly woman to fall back and hit the bed.

Cui Huifang, a retired labor camp guard-turned-Falun Gong practitioner. (Courtesy of Minghui.org)

Gradually, interacting with the imprisoned adherents and hearing how they benefitted from the practice, Cui experienced a change of heart.

One day, the head of the labor camp handed Cui the main book of Falun GongZhuan Falunasking her to read it well so that she and her colleagues can effectively re-educate the practitioners and make them give up their faith. After Cui began reading the spiritual and moral teachings of Falun Gong, she was moved by the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance; she gradually quit her bad habits and her health also improved. Experiencing the benefits firsthand, Cui was convinced that Falun Gong is an upright practice, and that the Chinese regime is bent on defaming it for ulterior goals.

However, Cui was arrested in December 2014 after she tried to attend a trial of practitioners arrested in Jiansanjiang, Heilongjiang Province, in March of that year. She was released on the same day but arrested again in February 2015 when she was on her way home after applying for a visa at the United States embassy in Shenyang City.

Cui was later charged with disclosing state secrets and sentenced to two years, reported Minghui.org. She was released in February 2017.
Popular Childrens Bunk Beds Recalled Because Support Slats Can Break

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a recall on May 4 for 121,000 twin-over-twin bunk beds sold online by Amazon.com, Walmart, Home Depot, and other retailers.

The twin bunk beds made by Walker Edison Furniture may have slats that break and pose falling and impact hazards.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled bunk beds and contact Walker Edison Furniture to receive a free repair kit consisting of 12 wooden slats and new instructions, the CPSC said in a statement. Walker Edison is contacting known purchasers directly.

The upgrade/repair kit enhances the safety and security of the original seven wooden slat design and provides enhanced stability, said the company.

The voluntary recall was announced after the furniture company received 14 reports of slats breaking on bunk beds, including one report of minor injuries, according to the agency.

Walker Edison said in a statement on its official recall information page that consumers who purchased bunk beds before March 2022 are eligible for this remedy.

If you are unclear if your product is subject to this recall, please contact Walker Edison and we will help you determine if the bed in your possession is subject to the recall, the company added.

The wooden bunk beds, which come in various colors and finishes with a ladder down the side, were sold on Walmart.com, HomeDepot.com, Amazon.com, Overstock.com, and Wayfair.com between February 2010 and February 2022 for between $206 and $389.

All models have a ladder down the side and include a label inside the bed rail or footboard that says Walker Edison Furniture, Made in Brazil, and the model name of the bed.

Here are the model numbers and descriptions:

BWSTOTBL: solid wood bunk bedblack.

BWSTOTBL-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedblack.

BWSTOTCH: twin-over-twin wood bunk bedcherry.

BWSTOTCH-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedcherry.

BWSTOTES: twin-over-twin wood bunk bedespresso.

BWSTOTES-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedespresso.

BWSTOTGY: solid wood bunk bedgray.

BWSTOTGY-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedgray.

BWSTOTHY: twin-over-twin wood bunk bedhoney.

BWSTOTHY-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedhoney.

BWSTOTNL: twin-over-twin wood bunk bednatural.

BWSTOTNL-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bednatural.

BWSTOTWH: twin-over-twin wood bunk bedwhite.

BWSTOTWH-TR: solid wood twin-over-twin bunk bed + storage/trundle bedwhite.

Customers with questions can contact Walker Edison Furniture toll-free at 877-203-2917 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. MT Friday, or by email at recall@walkeredison.com, or by filling out a request form online on Walker Edison Furnitures website.

Furniture Injuries

An estimated annual average of 19,400 Americans went to emergency rooms across the United States between 2019 and 2021 for injuries sustained when a furniture, TV, or appliance tipped over.

A report (pdf) released in February 2023 by CPSC found that there have been 592 tip-over fatalities in the United States since 2000. Eight in ten of the deaths were children.

Although the data shows an overall decline in product instability injuries and deaths recently, each year, thousands of people are still treated for injuries, and some die from what authorities say are preventable accidents.

Here are some steps recommended by CPSC to prevent a tip-over from happening:
DETROITDennis Murphy had long wanted to see Shen Yun Performing Arts, and learning that the New York-based company presented a China before communism made him all the more interested.

I learned that this is one of the things that the Chinese, the CCP (Chinese Communist Party), considers its biggest threat. So that kind of put me over the top to go and buy the tickets. I love the tradition. I love all of the depictions of all the history of China. I absolutely see why the CCP sees it as a threat because its beautiful, said Mr. Murphy, who attended the performance with his wife, Megan, at the Detroit Opera House on May 6.

They [the CCP] dont want people remembering all of that about China and its traditions and its history and all the pageantryit was just beautiful. It was really fascinating, said Mr. Murphy, a financial investor.

Shen Yun, the worlds premier classical Chinese dance company, has a mission to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization. The Chinese once believed their culture was divinely inspired, and reverence for the heavens and the Creator was a core part of this traditional culture.

Thus, Shen Yun cannot perform in China, which is still under communist rule. The communist regime, which is atheist, has worked for 70 years to try to uproot traditional culture in China.

Mr. Murphy described a breadth of stories in the performancethere were comedies and tragedies, folk dances from Tibet to Mongolia, and even two stories set in the modern day. The contemporary tales touched on the CCPs persecution of people of faith, namely Falun Gong, a spiritual practice that teaches truth, compassion, and tolerance.

I thought it was great. I think it probably surprised quite a few people in the audience, both that [the modern-day story] and the spiritual aspect of it, Mr. Murphy said. The persecuted part, I dont think people even realize that. I dont think a lot of people realize that. So hopefully they learn that; today theyre more aware of it.

It was just fascinating. It really was, he said.

Mrs. Murphy agreed, adding that she, too, enjoyed the variety of stories and how they were communicated without words.

It just showed the universal storytelling aspect of dance and music, she said. And I just think theyre all very brave.

Reporting by Charlie Lu.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
SYDNEY, AustraliaClassical ballet teacher and principal of The Ballet School Australia, Noeleyne Rosemary Wilson, was brought to tears by Shen Yun Performing Arts on Sunday evening.

It was so inspirational and just so uplifting. It was an incredible experience, she said from the Sydney Lyric Theatre. I was in tears most of the time.

As a dancer and teacher of the art form, Ms. Wilson explained the elements she believes elevates New York-based Shen Yun performance to another level, moving people to tears with culture, stories, dance, and music.

I can identify with dancing from the soul, she said.

I feel that there is just a purity, she added of the way the performers carry themselves and their delivery. It comes down to kindness, having a good heart, understanding, compassion  it shines through in everything that they do.

In every moment that they make, they give a message of the world being good again, which would be amazing if that happened. It would be. I think its what the world needs more of at the moment because weve lost our way a lot, so I think its really bringing a beautiful message, she said of the production.

As the company explains on its website, the Chinese characters, Shen Yun, mean the beauty of divine beings dancing.

The website goes on to say that many classical Chinese dance movements actually came from Chinas rich culture of martial arts. However, the movements in classical Chinese dance are different from the modern martial arts moves seen in todays kung fu movies as it integrates an additional element: a persons inner bearing, which enriches the dance movements with the expression of a performers inner feelings.

As the worlds premier classical Chinese dance and music company, Shen Yuns mission is to revive Chinas glorious culture, which was known in ancient times as the Celestial Empire, where the divine and mortal once coexisted.

Shen Yun travels the world with eight touring companies presenting to its audiences China before communism.

Students Changed By Shen Yun

Ms. Wilson said that her students have also been inspired and motivated by Shen Yun.

Its changed them incredibly already: their focus has changed, their understanding of why they do what they do.

When they saw the dancers, it really highlighted for them the importance of reaching inwards, being a good person, being kind, being respectful; all of that just triggered even more in them, she said.

So when we got back to the studio, there was this focus and understanding and this joy of what they do, and wanting to share that with other people in how they perform and how they work.

She commended Shen Yuns performers and their dedication to their art.

I think that in their dedication and the way that they approach their program, in the way that they purely put so much effort and so much love into what they do, I think that comes through in everything that they present. And the stories that theyre telling on stage, everything is about that essence of being good and finding the right path in the world. I found the whole show mesmerising in that regard, Ms. Wilson said.

It really spoke to my heart and to my soul, and I know to my students as well. They were very, very touched, and its beautiful.

It was unbelievable, Im so grateful for the experience.

This Is a Masterclass

Australian film and TV producer and actress Zoe Naylor was also in the audience on Sunday night and enjoyed Shen Yun with her mother and daughter.

Oh, its faultless, isnt it? World-class and incredibly inspiring to people, she said after the performance.

She said the diversity of stories showcased by Shen Yun had been a beautiful surprise.

I didnt know that was part of this show. I thought it was just dance, so Ive been really, really enthralled with the storytelling aspect and the humour.

Its got a really light touch, feels almost effortless, yet I can totally appreciate the years and years of dedication that has gone into making this the masterclass that it is, she said.

Ms. Naylor added, I really, really appreciate the spiritual part of the storytelling [theres] just so much we dont know about China and its history.

This beautiful storytelling [is] an education through this ancient modality of dance. This is the best schooling that I can be offering in terms of history and art fused together, she said.

Reporting by Cindy Li, NTD, and Melanie Sun.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Starbucks Employee Who Accused Customer of Being Transphobic Fired

A Starbucks employee who was filmed ranting furiously at a customer after the worker allegedly was misgendered has been fired, the coffee giant has confirmed.

In a statement to The Epoch Times, Starbucks said the transgender employees contract had been terminated following an investigation into the incident, which went viral on social media.

Footage of the altercation, which took place at Starbuckss 23.5 Degrees-run store in Town Quay, Southampton, England, showed the employee accusing the customer of being transphobic and demanding that the woman leave the store.

The customer referred to the barista as a man, the employee claimed.

The woman continuously denies being transphobic before the staff member begins clapping in her face and ordering her to leave the shop, while referring to her as Karen.

Accusing her of trespassing, the Starbucks employee tells the customer she isnt entitled to a refund before urging her again to leave the store.

The barista then approaches a passerby filming the incident outside before attempting to grab the mans mobile phone, demanding that he hand it over.

The short clip, believed to have been recorded more than a week ago, surfaced on May 7 on Twitter, where it has been viewed more than 2 million times.

Furious social media users called for Starbucks to sack the employee, with TV personality Oli London writing, Is this an acceptable way for staff to behave @StarbucksUK ?

There were also calls for protests at the Southampton cafe by womens rights activist Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, also known as Posie Parker.

Responding to the footage, Keen-Minshull wrote on Twitter: Which branch is this? We should all go.

Hampshire Police said they hadnt received any reports regarding the incident.

No Tolerance

The licensee has confirmed that the partner (employee) no longer works at the company. Starbucks has no tolerance for behaviour of this kind and we are very sorry for the experience that this customer had, a Starbucks spokesperson said in a statement to The Epoch Times on May 8.

As part of its strict diversity policy, Starbucks says it seeks out employeesreferred to as partnerswho are as diverse as the communities we serve.

The companys website also states that employees should act with a spirit of kinship, tolerance, and humanity toward all customers making our brand welcoming to everyone.

In 2018, the coffee giant became the first company in the world to cover the cost of gender reassignment surgeries for transgender employees.

The company said it was working with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) to come up with a new health care plan for staff members.

In a statement at the time, Ron Crawford, vice president of benefits at Starbucks, said the decision was driven by the companys desire to provide truly inclusive coverage, and by powerful conversations with transgender [employees] about how those benefits would allow them to truly be who they are.

He added: Nobody else is doing this. We would love to see more employers doing this.

The chain has offered employees insurance that covers procedures since 2012, but the newly drafted plan will cover procedures for U.S. transgender employees that were previously thought to be cosmetic.

Employees seeking such procedures would be able to claim breast augmentation or reduction surgery, facial feminization, and hair transplants, Starbucks said at the time.

Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull (Posie Parker) speaks during a Standing for Women protest in Glasgow, Scotland, on Feb. 5, 2023. (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Lifesaving

Starbucks was the first company in the world to ask WPATH to help translate its recommended standards of care into a medical benefits policy, said Jamison Green, the immediate past president of WPATH, who worked with the company on the benefits package.

Starbucks was not afraid to ask all the right questions and demand that people get the best possible care, Green said in a Starbucks statement at the time.

We produced a list of the most crucial benefits and those that are deemed problematic to insurance companies, such as facial feminization and electrolysis.

Many procedures considered cosmetic arent optional for trans people, Green said, but are essential in their quest to be who they are. Something like electrolysis can be a life-saving procedure for trans women, he said.

Tate Buhrmester, one of the companys transgender employees based in the United States, said the companys actions are lifesaving.

Starbucks is taking a stand and standing up for trans people and saying that our procedures arent just cosmeticthey are lifesaving. Theyre affirming, Buhrmester said.

Theyre vitally important to trans people and its not something just to be seen as a cosmetic procedure thats optional, because for a lot of people, its not optional for them.

Correction: The statement from a Starbucks spokesperson was amended on May 9.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay an official visit to China on May 17-19, Trend reports with reference to the Press Office of the President of Kazakhstan.

In China's Xi'an, the President of Kazakhstan will hold talks with the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping.

The two countries' leaders will consider further strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding cooperation in trade, economics, investment, transport and logistics, and energy, as well as deepening cultural and humanitarian ties.

Tokayev will also take part in the China-Central Asia Summit and meet with the heads of major Chinese companies.
Sunak Backs Met Over 64 Coronation Arrests

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak holds an oversized tea pot as he goes to pour a cup as he sits next to U.S. First Lady Jill Biden during a Coronation Big Lunch in Downing Street, London, on May 7, 2023. (Frank Augstein/PA Media)

The prime minister has backed the Metropolitan Police after the force was criticised for arresting dozens of protesters during the coronation of King Charles III.

As tens of thousands of people, including foreign heads of state, gathered at Londons Westminster Abbey to celebrate on Saturday, 64 people were arrested, including anti-monarchy protesters, climate activists, and people in possession of rape alarms.

Police officers patrol The Mall outside Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation of King Charles III in London on April 29, 2023. (Kin Cheung/AP Photo)

Speaking to broadcasters on Monday after volunteering at a lunch club in Hertfordshire, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: The police are operationally independent of government, theyll make these decisions based on what they think is best.

Actually Im grateful to the police and everyone who played a part in ensuring that this weekend has gone so well, so successfully, and so safely.

That was an extraordinary effort by so many people and Im grateful to them for all their hard work.

He added: No other country in the world could put on such a dazzling spectacle and it was a proud expression of our history, our culture, our tradition, and also a reflection of the modern character of our country.

It was deeply moving to be in the coronation service and incredibly uplifting and it was an experience I think nobody will forget for the rest of their lives.

Disrupt and Diminish

Graham Smith, chief executive of the anti-monarchy campaign group Republic, who was detained on Saturday, accused Scotland Yard of having every intention of arresting demonstrators.

Smith told the BBC that he was arrested while unloading placards on the suspicion of being equipped to lock-on to an object or building, a jailable offence under the Public Order Act, which was signed into law only last week.

Graham Smith, leader of campaign group Republic, attends an anti-monarchy protest prior to the Commonwealth Service, outside Westminster Abbey in London, on March 13, 2023. (May James/Reuters)

He denied this was his intention and accused the Met of lying, adding, The whole thing was a deliberate attempt to disrupt and diminish our protest.

They stopped us because the law was introduced, rushed in last week, to give them the powers to stop us on any flimsy pretext.

That law means we no longer in this country have the right to protest, we only have the freedom to protest contingent on the permission of senior police officers and politicians and its my view that those senior police officers were under immense pressure from politicians.

I understand the Labour Party said they wouldnt repeal this law, which is pretty disgraceful if true. This law needs to be repealed.

Rape Alarms

Following the coronation ceremony, Westminster City Council raised concerns that womens safety volunteers were among those arrested after rape alarms were seized.

The Metropolitan Police said that, at around 2 a.m. on Saturday, three peoplea 37-year-old woman, a 59-year-old woman, and a 47-year-old manwere stopped by officers and arrested in the Soho area of central London on suspicion of conspiracy to commit public nuisance.

Among items seized were a number of rape alarms, the force said.

The Met said it received intelligence that indicated groups and individuals seeking to disrupt todays coronation proceedings were planning to use rape alarms to disrupt the procession.

It also said officers seized the rape alarms after there had been particular concern from military colleagues that the alarms would scare their horses involved in the procession.

But Westminster City Council said the three people were volunteers from Night Stars, a part of the councils night safety campaign.

Aicha Less, the councillor in charge of communities and public protection, said: We are deeply concerned by reports of our Night Stars volunteers being arrested overnight.

This service has been a familiar and welcome sight in the West End for a long time and have extensive training so they can assist the most vulnerable on the streets late at night.

We are working with the Metropolitan Police to establish exactly what happened, and in the meantime, we are in touch with our volunteers to ensure they are receiving the support they need.

Worrying

Caroline Russell, chairwoman of the London Assemblys Police and Crime Committee, said she will be questioning the Met over the worrying arrests.

The Green politician told the BBC: It seems absolutely extraordinary that those people who were volunteering, they were out there handing out flip flops to people who could no longer walk in their high heels because theyd had a bit too much to drink and handing out rape alarms. It just seems extraordinary that they got caught up in the Mets safety net. How? It just feels very odd.

But Ken Marsh, head of the Metropolitan Police Federation representing officers from the rank of constable to chief inspector, said police were acting both lawfully and impartially.

Protesting can take place in this country, but its the level to which you want to perform that protest that we have to balance and deal with whats put in front of us impartially. Thats what was done, he told the BBC.

PA Media contributed to this report.
Taliban Agrees With China, Pakistan to Bring Belt and Road Initiative to Afghanistan

A loaded truck travels through a newly built tunnel in northern Pakistan's Gojal Valley on Sept. 29, 2015. (Aamir Qureshi/AFP via Getty Images)

The Taliban has agreed to extend Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects to Afghanistan and pledged to deepen trilateral cooperation with China and Pakistan to achieve win-win results.

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang held talks with his Pakistani counterpart, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Afghanistans acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Islamabad on May 6.

The ministers agreed to uphold relations, deepen political trust, respect each others sovereignty, and handle conflicts through equal consultation, according to a readout by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

They oppose illegal unilateral sanctions against Afghanistan and interference in its internal affairs, the ministry stated.

Afghanistan and Pakistan both pledged to promote trilateral ties with China in politics, security, and economy in order to safeguard their common interests and achieve mutual benefits and win-win results.

The three nations agreed to cooperate in the joint construction of the BRI and support the extension of the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan, pledging to promote connectivity between their countries.

Muttaqi said the Taliban prioritized developing relations with China and that it wouldnt allow any force to engage in activities against China and Pakistan using Afghan territory, the ministry stated.

Chinas statement made no mention of the situation in Afghanistan, where rights for women have been significantly curtailed since the Taliban took power after the U.S. troop withdrawal from the country in 2021. The Taliban has barred Afghan women from attending universities and secondary schools.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said in a recent report that Afghanistans economy has suffered greatly under Taliban rule, contracting by 30 to 35 percent between 2021 and 2022. Two-thirds of Afghan households struggled to meet their basic needs, it stated.

In a separate meeting with Muttaqi on May 6, Qin said that China will stand firmly with the Afghan people and support Afghanistan in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions no matter how the international and regional situation changes.

ChinaAfghanistan Relations

China and Pakistan have previously discussed expanding the CPEC projects into Afghanistan. In a joint statement on May 6, the two countries agreed to enhance development in Afghanistan, including through extension of CPEC.

They underscored the need for the international community to provide support to Afghanistan including through unfreezing of Afghanistans overseas financial assets.

The CPEC is part of the BRI, started by Chinese leader Xi Jinping in 2013. Other countries, including the United States, have criticized the BRI infrastructure program as a debt trap for smaller nations.

China has invested more than $62 billion in infrastructure under the CPEC, including the construction of a deep-water port in Gwadar that triggered massive protests in November 2021.

The Taliban hasnt been recognized as a legitimate regime by any nation, including China, but Beijing has sought to deepen economic ties with the Taliban, with an eye on Afghanistans mineral deposits estimated to be worth more than $1 trillion.

Since the Taliban rose back to power in 2021, observers have expressed concern that the power vacuum will be filled by the Chinese regime, which is already seeking to broaden its influence in Central Asia and the Middle East.

Afghanistans acting first deputy prime minister Abdul Ghani Baradar (L) and Chinas ambassador at Kabul, Wang Yu, announce an oil extraction contract with a Chinese company in Kabul on Jan. 5, 2023. (Ahmad Sahel Arman/AFP via Getty Images)

In January, the Taliban inked a $540 million oil deal with Xinjiang Central Asia Petroleum and Gas Company (CAPEIC), based in China, its biggest deal since the takeover.

The deal will provide CAPEIC with a 25-year contract to extract oil from more than 1,700 square miles of the Amu Darya basin in Afghanistan and provides the Taliban with a 20 percent stake in the effort.

The move is viewed by analysts as part of a wider effort by communist China to take advantage of the chaotic U.S. withdrawal and to present an alternative model of international relations in the Middle East.

Andrew Thornebrooke and Emel Akan contributed to this report.
Texas Outdoor Mall Shooting: Prayer Vigil, 8 Victims Identified

This is a memorial at the Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas, where community members have put flowers, stuffed animals, notes, and built crosses on May 8, 2023. (Jana J. Pruet/The Epoch Times)

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott attended a prayer vigil on May 7 for the victims of an outdoor mall shooting in Allen, Texas.

The hearts of all Texans are with Allen, Texas. Tonight, I joined my fellow Texans in Allen for a community vigil for the innocent lives lost last night and for those who are recovering from injuries. As this community heals, Texas will be with you every step of the way, Abbott wrote on Twitter.

More than two dozen lawmakers, including Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Attorney General Ken Paxton, and others, joined community members at the Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church to remember the eight people who were killed by an attacker in Allen, Texas, on May 6 and to pray for those still recovering.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (front) and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick on May 7, 2023, attended a prayer vigil for the eight victims killed and seven others injured when an attacker opened fire at Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas, on May 6, 2023. (Courtesy of the office of Greg Abbott)

On the afternoon of May 6, an attacker killed eight and wounded seven others when he opened fire on shoppers at Allen Premium Outlets. Seven people, including the shooter, died at the scene, Allen Fire Chief Jonathan Boyd said during a press conference hours after the brutal massacre took place. Two others died at a local hospital.

Six victims ranging in age from 5 to 61 remained hospitalized on May 8.

Four of the victims remain hospitalized at Medical City McKinney; three are in critical condition and one is in fair condition, Medical City told The Epoch Times in a statement.

A fifth victim at Medical City Plano is in fair condition.

A child victim is listed in good condition at Medical City Childrens Hospital in Dallas.

Our emergency, trauma, surgical, ICU, and nursing teams responded to this tragic event with speed, skill, and tremendous compassion for the patients, their families, and each other. We are privileged to work alongside and stand with first responders, victims, their loved ones and the North Texas Community at this time, Medical City said in a statement, KXAS reported.

The Victims

Christian LaCour of Farmersville, Texas, has been identified as one of the victims killed in the massacre, The Dallas Morning News reported.

A relative of the 20-year-old told the newspaper that he was a sweet, caring young man who was loved greatly by [his] family.

LaCours father told KXAS that his son was working as a security guard at the outlet mall when the shooting occurred.

Aishwarya Thatikonda, a 27-year-old from Hyderabad, India, has been identified as another of the victims, The Times of India reported.

Thatikonda was a project manager at Perfect General Contractors in Frisco, Texas. Her family is working with officials on the return of her body to India, according to the report.

Three members of a familya father, mother, and childwere also among those killed, the South Korean consulate in Houston told The Dallas Morning News. The childs age wasnt immediately released.

Kyu Song Cho, 37, his wife Cyndi Cho, 35, and James, their 3-year-old son, were killed, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The couples other son, William, was injured but has been released from the ICU. The familys only surviving member turned six just days before the shooting.

A GoFundMe account was created to help the family of the victims. As of May 9, the account had surpassed 1.2 million in less than 24 hours.

Sisters Daniela Mendoza, a fourth grader, and Sofia Mendoza, a second grader, were killed in the attack. The girls, ages 11 and 8, respectively, were students at Cox Elementary in nearby Wylie, Texas. Their mother, Ilda Mendoza, is among the victims who are listed in critical condition, according to Wylie Independent School District Superintendent David Vinson, who sent an email informing parents of the news.

Elio Cumana-Rivas, 32, of Dallas, was also killed in the massacre. No other information on Cumana-Rivas was immediately available.

What Happened?

An Allen police officer was at the mall on an unrelated call when he heard gunfire at 3:36 p.m. The officer quickly acted to neutralize the suspect, Allen police stated.

Officials have identified the suspect as Mauricio Garcia, 33, who was staying in an extended-stay motel in Dallas.

Garcia was shot and killed by the responding officer.

A video circulating online showed Garcia getting out of a vehicle and firing at people on the sidewalk. At least three dozen shots could be heard as the person that was recording drove away.

Police recovered multiple weapons from the suspects vehicle after he was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun, according to officials.

A still image from video footage shows police responding to a shooting in the Dallas areas Allen Premium Outlets in Allen, Texas, on May 6, 2023. (WFAA TV via Reuters)

Police and FBI agents raided Garcias parents home in Dallas, about 25 miles south of Allen.

They walked out with several boxesfive to six boxesis all I know, neighbor Moises Carreon told KDFW news on May 7.

It still sends a chill down your spine knowing that the person who commit [sic] a horrific crime like this lives five houses away.

Authorities also searched the Dallas-area motel where Garcia had been staying.

Information regarding a possible motive hasnt been released.

Victim Assistance

On May 8, the outdoor mall remains closed as authorities provided shuttles allowing individuals to retrieve vehicles and personal belongings from the mall, according to the FBI.

A family assistance center has opened at the Allen Senior Recreation Center at 451 St. Mary Drive in Allen.

The American Red Cross, LifePath Systems, Salvation Army, and Collin County Child Advocacy Center have partnered with authorities to provide mental health services, spiritual care, and potential financial assistance for those directly impacted by the events that occurred at the mall.

The center is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through May 10, with additional dates to be determined.

FBI Asking for Help

The FBI is asking for digital evidence from witnesses who were at the mall on the day of the incident. Images and videos can be submitted online through a page created on the agencys website.

The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the multi-agency investigation, which includes the Allen Police Department, FBI, and the Texas Ranger Department.

Jack Phillips contributed to this report.
US Senate Passes Resolution to Condemn Beijing for Demolishing Hong Kongs Rule of Law and Freedom

The United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, also known as The Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has passed a resolution to condemn Beijing for demolishing the rule of law and democracy of Hong Kongdata picture. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

The United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations has passed a resolution to condemn the Beijing governments destruction of the rule of law and democracy of Hong Kong.

Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed their appreciation for the resolution adopted by the Committee on May 3.

Risch stated that the Hong Kong government must stop its false and politically-motivated charges against Hongkongers such as Jimmy Lai Chee-ying and Cardinal Zen. Risch believed the resolution would reaffirm the commitment of the United States to hold the Beijing and the Hong Kong governments accountable for abusing their power, All wrongfully accused defendants should be released immediately.

Menendez stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) not only abandoned one country, two systems and violently suppressed peaceful demonstrations, but it also made politically-motivated accusations against Hongkongers such as Jimmy Lai.

Menendez said the Chinese government has destroyed Hong Kongs autonomy and eliminated Hongkongers trust in the judicial system. He pointed out that the elements once promised to Hong Kong set Hong Kong apart in the eyes of the international community.

In the face of such repression, we cannot be silent. As our resolution moves next to the Senate Floor, we affirm our commitment to stand with Hong Kongers and continue to amplify their brave calls for basic respect for free speech, personal safety, and democratic and human rights, Menendez added.

The resolution, passed by the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, includes the United States strong condemnation of Beijing for the Hong Kong National Security Law and related human rights abuses. It supports Hongkongers fight to exercise their fundamental rights and freedoms.

Additionally, the Committee chastised the CCP for putting forward politically-motivated prosecutions against Hongkongers.

The Foreign Relations Committee urged the U.S. government to use all available tools to respond to the regimes actions against Hong Kong.

The resolution also encouraged the United States and other governments to press multilateral organizations to stop granting Hong Kong voting rights separate from China.

More than 30 senators, alongside Jim Risch and Bob Menendez from the U.S. Senate, jointly supported the resolution for Hong Kong and Hongkongers.

The Office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong expressed its condemnation and opposition in response to the resolution made by the United States Foreign Relations Committee.
UK Stresses Obligation to Engage Before 1st Ministerial Visit to Hong Kong Since Civil Rights Suppression

Britain has an obligation to engage with Hong Kong, a minister has said as he embarks on the first UK ministerial visit to the former colony since Beijings suppression of its civil rights.

Investment minister Lord Dominic Johnson will discuss boosting trade in fintech and financial services with Hong Kong government representatives.

He will be the first minister to visit the region since the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) launched a suppression on pro-democracy protesters in 2019.

Riot police detain a man as they clear protesters taking part in a rally against a new national security law in Hong Kong on July 1, 2020, the 23rd anniversary of the citys handover from Britain to China. (Dale De La Rey/AFP via Getty Images)

The UK government has condemned Beijings imposition of a national security law on Hong Kong in 2020, and has subsequently created a special visa scheme allowing Hongkongers to emigrate to Britain.

The UK says the Chinese regime remains in breach of the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration, under which it has a duty to uphold Hong Kongs high degree of autonomy and rights and freedoms.

But Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks government has recently made clear that it wants to maintain engagement with the Chinese regime despite political differences.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak giving a speech on education at London Screen Academy, in London, on April 17, 2023. (Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA Media)

Historic Responsibilities

Ahead of his trip, Johnson said: Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading international finance centres, and my visit will promote cooperation on sectors where we both excelfrom financial services and infrastructure to clean growth and sustainability.

The UKs ties with Hong Kong run deep, not only in our shared history and connection between our people, but in business and our desire to succeed. For future generations we have an obligation to engagerobustly and also constructivelyand our engagement with Hong Kong is an important part of that.

I am clear that we will not look the other way on Hong Kong or duck our historic responsibilities to its people, and that we will continue to stand up for them, call out the violation of their freedoms and hold China to their international obligations.

Coronation Invite

It comes after the highly controversial attendance of Chinas Vice President Han Zheng at the coronation of King Charles III on May 6.

Han was responsible for the regimes policy for Hong Kong between 2018 and March this year, during which the regime suppressed pro-democracy protesters and imposed the national security law.

Han Zheng takes an oath after being named Chinas vice president during the third plenary session of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing, on March 10, 2023. (Noel Celis/AFP via Getty Images)

Following reports late last month that Han would get an invite to the coronation, former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said: This is the man responsible for trashing the international treatythe Sino-British accordin the course of which the Hong Kong authorities have persecuted peaceful democracy campaigners.

Having this man here given his role is outrageous.

Tim Loughton, another Conservative MP, said Hans presence would be an insult to the freedom-loving people of Hong Kong.

Lord Chris Patten, the last British governor of Hong Kong, said Beijings decision to send Han to the coronation was a sign that the regime treats the UK with contempt.

I think its an indication of the fact that, however much you grovel to China, however much you try to give them face, they dont give a toss about giving us face, he told the BBC.

Deep Disagreement

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said he broached areas of deep disagreement during a meeting with Han on Friday.

Cleverly wrote on Twitter: Engagement with China means discussing areas of deep disagreement and vital co-operation.

Today with VP Han Zheng, I made plain the UKs views on Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Taiwan.

We also discussed working together on climate change, economic ties and people-to-people links.

Britains Foreign Secretary James Cleverly leaves 10 Downing Street in London on March 7, 2023. (Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images)

In response to criticisms of the decision to invite Han, Cleverly told BBC Radio 4s Today programme on May 2: With the relationship with China, it is incredibly important that we continue to have conversations. To basically gag ourselves, to limit our own ability to exert influence, would be counterproductive.

Downing Street acknowledged there were strong feelings from MPs about the Beijing government but Sunaks official spokesman told reporters in Westminster: As the foreign secretary has said, we need to be clear-eyed about how we approach China.

It would be wrong to exclude them completely given their significance to the global economy and on things like tackling climate change.

PA Media contributed to this report.
Ukraine and Allies Must Avoid Pyrrhic Victories

An aerial view of Bakhmut, the site of the heaviest battles with the Russian troops in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, on April 26, 2023. (The Canadian Press/AP-Libkos)

Commentary

The Western press is highly excited about the prospects of a counteroffensive against Russian forces occupying Ukraine.

Ukraine faces a ticking clock, blared a New York Times headline. It is now battered Ukraines turn for an offensive, cheered the Financial Times. The coming battle should aim to persuade Moscow of the futility of its aggression and attempted land grabs.

CNN headlined, As Ukraine prepares counteroffensive, Russia appears in disarray. The author could have been duped into repeating Kremlin propaganda, but no matter. War with Russia is an unending cascade of smoke and mirrors.

After months of buildup, in which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy obtained some, but not all, of the military materiel Kyiv needs for the campaign, there is increased Ukrainian activity on the frontlines, and Russian troops are evacuating civilians while feverishly preparing defensive and fallback positions.

All that is needed, according to the narrative, are quick wins by Ukraine to redraw the frontlines on media maps so the American and European public can keep the momentum of arms and consequent victories flowing until all of Ukraine is liberated.

The West should indeed accelerate the arming of Ukraine for its defense and turn toward offensives to retake Ukrainian territory where possible.

Ukrainian tanks move toward Bakhmut, in the Donetsk Oblast region, on March 20, 2023. (Aris Messinis/AFP via Getty Images)

Lack of help to Ukraine would mean the ossification of current frontlines and a Western loss used by not only Moscow but also by Beijing to make more gains at the expense of our democratic allies, ultimately using their ill-gotten gains to threaten the United States itself as we become increasingly isolated.

But military support to Ukraine should never be predicated on costly wins for the cameras that have little strategic purpose. There is now talk of the risk of Ukrainian arms and soldiers squandered in an attempt to appeal to the cameras for easy wins that turn to Pyrrhic defeats.

Russias offensive in February 2022, which enjoyed overwhelming military power relative to the Ukrainians, including, of surprise, bogged down within three days. In its offensive to take Bakhmut, a strategically worthless city, Russia lost seven soldiers for every Ukrainian killed, according to the chief of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council in March.

The Russian offensive in Bakhmut was more a cynical meat grinder for Russias Wagner Group to execute its own criminals and weaken Ukrainians in the process. It did the former but only resolved Ukrainians and reinscribed a lesson: the defense has thus far had the advantage in this war.

Rather than push Ukrainian commanders into hasty and ill-considered counteroffensives, then, we should encourage them to carefully decide when and if they want a large counteroffensive, or whether their ultimate goals are better served with their current strategy of slowly bleeding the Russian army, but this time with better arms at their disposal to both hold back any further Russian offenses, keep them guessing about offensives and therefore off-balance, and make inroads against their territorial gains where offensives can yield gains without inordinate losses.

These are tactical questions best left to commanders on the battlefield, not the public and media commentators thirsty for flashy victories to justify further arms appropriations.

According to a cautionary Washington Post article on May 6, the successes of Ukraine in retaking Kharkiv and Kherson were due to advantages of surprise and geography, respectively.

Leaked U.S. intelligence acknowledges Ukrainian deficiencies in training and munitions that could impede Ukraines planned offensives in the spring.

U.S. President Joe Biden meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Ukrainian presidential palace in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 20, 2023. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via Getty Images)

After months of talking up the counteroffensive to pry as many weapons as possible from U.S. and European allies, Ukrainian officials are now wisely shifting to manage expectations.

The expectation from our counteroffensive campaign is overestimated in the world, Ukraines defense minister told the Post last week. Most people are  waiting for something huge, which could lead to emotional disappointment.

Zelenskyy has pleaded for F-16 fighter jets, long-range strike missiles and artillery, and more Patriot missile defenses that Washington and Brussels have refused to provide due to worries about Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory that could escalate or broaden the war. The imbalance in long-range strike capabilities gives Russia a major advantage in unilateral strikes in Ukraines rear. More missile defense for Ukraine could mean stripping U.S. systems.

Czech President Petr Pavel warned that Ukraine no longer has the element of surprise that sped its military advances in Kharkiv and Kherson last year. He is a decorated former general and war hero who saved French troops from Serbian forces in 1993 during the Bosnian War, and principal military adviser to NATO.

Just over a week ago, according to The Guardian, Pavel met Zelenskyy and appealed to Ukrainian officials not to be pushed into a faster pace before they are fully prepared and warned of terrible losses on the Ukrainian side no matter how strong its forces.

Pavel noted the extremely demanding tactical and supply requirements of putting together personnel equipment, ammunition logistics, fuel financing.

He said, Because it might be a temptation to push them, for some, to demonstrate some results  it will be extremely harmful to Ukraine if this counteroffensive fails because they will not have another chance, at least not this year.

Yes, we should arm Ukraine with the best weapons systems and an abundant ammunition supply so field commanders are ready to take opportunities as they arise. But we should leave open the option of victory by slowly pressuring Russia by draining it of blood and treasure until Moscow has no choice but to retreat from occupied territories.

Washington, Brussels, and the punditry can help by not pressuring Ukraine into hasty counteroffensives that could fail, be an inefficient use of materiel, or lead to inordinate casualties on the Ukrainian side for territory that lacks strategic value.

Given Russias far larger army, not to mention the low morale and human costs of failed counteroffensives, lets cheer the Ukrainians for having the fortitude and wisdom to ignore the pundits and political pressure by demonstrating strategic patience and conservation of forces on their road to ultimate victory.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Victoria to Launch Digital Drivers Licences by 2024

A Utah Department of Motor Vehicle employee shows a sample of a digital driver's license on a mobile phone at a Harmons Grocery store on Aug. 4, 2021 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (George Frey/Getty Images)

Victoria will allow its motorists to carry a digital drivers licence on their phone, with a trial in Ballarat before a full state-wide roll-out by 2024.

From June, full licence holders in the regional town of Ballarat will be able to sign up for the pilot program via the Service Victoria or VicRoads website, which will give people a choice to store a digital version either in the Service Victoria app or the new-to-be launched my VicRoads app on their phones.

We know Victorians want digital driver licences, and thats why this trial is such a big step before further rollout occurs, said Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne.

The digital card will present some more advanced, unique safety features such as real-time updates of home addresses and if the licence has been suspended or cancelled.

With the new safe and timed QR code in place, Police, businesses, and any other authorities will be able to check and verify authenticity to stop potential fraudulent use.

This is world-class technology  the digital driver licence has a constantly refreshed unique QR code, and the customer has control over the level of personal information shared, said Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson.

Since the accessibility and security of personal information is the highest priority, extensive feedback will be sought from a range of people such as motorists, retailers, licensed venues, Victoria Police and many other organisations.

The trial will start in July for six months till the full launch in 2024.

Victoria Not First State to Go Digital

Although Victoria will be trying the new digital drivers licence in July, other states, such as South Australia (SA) and New South Wales (NSW), have already switched over to the digital license.

SA was the first state in Australia to introduce a rollout plan for digital licences in 2017. Now, theyre available to all drivers in the state with a Learners Permit, Provisional, Full or Heavy Vehicle Licence.

Digital passes, and licences displayed in the mySAGOV app are a duplicate of existing physical licences and can be accepted as valid and legal documents.

People enjoy outdoor dining along Sturt Street in Ballarat, Australia, on Sep. 10, 2021. (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

The NSW Government introduced its digital licences in late 2019, with residents able to download the free Service NSW app to hold their existing licence details.

However, although the NSW Government has said that the digital licence cannot replace the existing plastic card and recommends people still carry the old card as a backup, 4.4 million NSW drivers now carry a digital licence, which is 74.7 percent of the population.

The NSW government has assured its millions of digital card users about the security and privacy issues by applying similar measures used for Internet banking.

For Queensland, the state government started a similar trial to the Victorian one in April this year, beginning with regional areas first.
Will the Motion Picture Academy Take Richard Dreyfusss Advice?

Richard Dreyfuss at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on April 13, 2023. (Aude Guerrucci/AFP via Getty Images)

Commentary

Richard Dreyfuss criticized the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences new Oscar rules in, as they say, no uncertain terms.

The answer to my title question, however, is almost certainly no bloody wayeven though Dreyfuss is an Oscar winner himself and starred in several of the most financially successful films of all time.

The management of the Academyand a good part of its membership, alasis far too woke to begin to face reality or themselves.

Ditto, the Writers Guild of America, which is currently on strike.

As a member of both, I receive their emails, most of which, inadvertently, read like The Babylon Bee.

Nevertheless, Richardand I call him Richard because weve been friends since the early 1970s, even before he starred in and produced my first screenplay The Big Fix in 1978expressed the views of a few of us, at least, when he said this about the Academys new Oscar inclusion rules:

They make me vomit.

He spoke this obvious truth about those rules on PBS, of all purveyors of groupthink. Good for him.

In case readers dont know what Richard was referring toand many wont because so few, with justification, care about or even watch the Oscars anymorethe key here is that, as of 2024, in order to be eligible for Best Picture, one-third of a movies cast must be of an underrepresented group.

This is so anti-art that it makes the proverbial head explode, but, just as a reminder, it essentially negates all or most of the films of David Lean, Akira Kurosawa, Howard Hawks, Federico Fellini, John Huston, Francis Ford Coppola, Alfred Hitchcock, Ingmar Bergman, Francois Truffaut, Billy Wilder, and Orson Welles, just to name a few.

Perhaps John Ford would have slipped through on some of his films by using a sufficient number of Native Americans, assuming they were authentic, but not on any of his Oscar-winners, such as How Green Was My Valley and The Quiet Man.

As Dreyfuss pointed out, these rules also would have disallowed Laurence Olivierarguably the greatest actor in the English-speaking world on stage and screen since World War IIfrom playing Othello.

Perhaps well soon see computer-bowdlerized versions of Laurence of Arabia without Alec Guinness and Anthony Quinn, both of whom played Arabs.

The irony in all this is that interfering in the arts, making rules for artists, is inherently square and unsophisticated and will produce cowardly, useless art.

Modern Hollywood thinks of itself as progressive but is anything but in the honest sense of the word. Its monumentally conformist, seemingly producing films for each other so the makers will appear woke and be accepted by the group.

This, of course, also means making films that look inward and are of little interest to the public.

Thats the opposite of what Dreyfuss has been doing for much of his life, not just in film and theater, but elsewhere.

Besides his acting, he has, for some time, headed an organization dedicated to, according to its website, prioritizing civics education.

Bravo for that.

Over the years, Richard and I have argued about politics. He thinks Ive gone too far to the right. I think Im basically the same and that the world has shifted left. But whatever the case, the absolute necessity of civics education in our countryindeed prioritizing it, as he saysand the value of what hes attempting are inarguable.

In a way, if he could make this initiative work, it would be more of a gift to our people than his many wonderful performances.

Richards personal contribution notwithstanding, however, theres a tragedy in the growing insularity of woke Hollywood.

Not so long ago, motion pictures were referred to as the art form of our time. Everyone wanted to see the latest film. These days, you dont even know what they are.

In the larger senseto be bluntculture, the arts, are virtually dead because nothing has taken the place of the cinema.

Forget what Andrew Breitbart said of politics being downstream of culture. Theres no culture, on either side, to be downstream ofunless you consider 25 seconds on TikTok as culture.

Its fine to revive the great art of the past, as is done here in The Epoch Times, but the poverty of the present is palpable.

Conservatives, as Ive written before, play a big part in this poverty. Theyre more than willing to support the local philharmonic and have their names in the lobby, although Beethoven no longer needs their support. The arts of today do, but they have little or no interest in them. You get what you  dont  pay for.

More to the point, however, many are looking today for a truly conservative cinema. That, too, is an anti-art endeavor. The cinema, or any art form, shouldnt aspire to be political in the traditional sense. It should be the genuine response of the artist or artists to the world that all of us live in.

Yes, you could make a political analysis of The Godfather, if you chose. But thats not why youre riveted by it.

The same goes for the Oresteia or King Lear or any of the masterpieces of the past. They go beyond political interpretation into the realm of the spiritual. Great art is what succors our common humanity.

For a time, the cinema gave us that. No longer.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and its new rules arent helping us get it back. Quite the contrary.

They should listen to Richard.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Cong workers take out silent march to protest Bajrang Dals vandalism at party office





Staff Reporter

The Congressmen are continuously protesting against the vandalism done by Bajrang Dal activists in the Congress office at Baldevbagh. They conducted demonstrations by burning the effigy of the Chief Minister Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at many places, on Saturday. Continuing the protest, hundereds of Congress workers led by senior party leaders, on Sunday conducted a silent march. Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha, Congress MLAs, senior leaders and workers took out the march from Shahid Smarak to Town hall.

Addressing a huge gathering of party workers, MP Vivek Tankha said the people of Madhya Pradesh and Mahakoshal will not tolerate such hooliganism. He added that the rally was a display of faith and public trust, in line with the principles of Gandhi. Tankha said the Congress is opposing the attempt to create hooliganism and panic and demands action against those responsible. He said people vandalized the office of a National Party and the Police watched the incident as mute spectators. He said people of Sanskardhani will neither tolerate nor forgive such hooliganism.
Cops smartly foil extortion bid, arrest accused





Staff Reporter

Ayodhya Nagar police foiled an extortion bid by arresting a criminal who had hurled a petrol bomb on a builders office to threaten him, on Saturday night. The extortion attempt was highly dramatic and so was the police action. Accused had demanded Rs 50 lakh from Ramdas Sahu (36), a resident of Sagar Estate in Ayodhya Nagar. The accused, identified as Than Singh Thekre (32), had called Sahu and asked for money. However, he hurled a bomb at his office on Friday. Police said a two-wheeler was damaged in the incident. The accused then rang the victim and again threatened him with a dialogue that it was only a trailer and if his demands were not met, the victim cant even imagine how horrible the film will be for him. Cops received information about the bomb attack on Friday and they started search for the accused.

Thekre had ordered the builder to send his driver with cash to a said location and he agreed to it. However, a cop, posing as the driver, reached the location with a bag carrying cash which were nothing but a bundle of newspapers.

According to SHO Nilesh Awasthi, the accused had told victim to bring cash but Sahu denied to it claiming that he cannot drive a four-wheeler.

He then asked him to send his driver with cash and with a mobile phone of keypad. The cop who posed as a driver reached the said location. Police said the accused was instructing the driver to reach a said location and then he directed him to reach another location. It all went for over an hour as he kept on changing the destination, said police.

Once he called the cop to Piplani petrol pump and then asked him to reach Ayodhya Nagar ground. The accused then asked him to reach Ratnagiri Square and then to Ayodhya Nagar and then to Piplani petrol pump, added the cop. Police said the accused was chasing him and after he was assured that no one was following them, he instructed the driver to drop the cash bag near a bus and leave. The team of cops, however, was deployed all around in civil dress.

SHO Awasthi said that as soon as he tried to grab the bag the cops caught him. He was brought to police station where he confirmed that he had used a stolen bike to hurl bomb. He had brought a mobile phone from a drunkard at a liquor shop in Nishatpura. He said that he needed money for building his house in Bilkhiria area of Bhopal, he said. Thekre claimed to police that he was an Army man but police are yet to confirm it.
Cyclone Mocha to bring more rains in MP





Staff Reporter

First week of May is over but maximum temperature could not touch 40 degrees Celsius in Madhya Pradesh. Weather Department said that mercury is not likely to soar in the State for few more weeks. According to Meteorology Department, cyclone Mocha will be rising from Bay of Bengal from May 7 to 9. For next four days, rainfall and wind will again hit normal life in Madhya Pradesh. On Saturday night, it rained heavily in Ujjain and Ratlam.

Drizzle and light showers was recorded in some parts of Indore, Bhopal, Sehore, Betul, Dewas, Ratlam, Ujjain, Shajapur and Agar. Weather scientists said that there are chances of lightning in few cities. However, there is no forecast of hailstorm. The Weather Department has raised alert for lightning stroke in few cities of state. Cyclone had its effects in Bengal and Odisha on Sunday. Waves of the cyclone will be increasing on May 8 and 9. Mercury will be rising in the State after May 15. However, North West India to Central India, heat waves will not be extending. Eastern part of the State will be recording heat stroke.

Weather scientists said that there is no forecast for the month of June yet. They said there are chances of monsoon arrival in Kerala on June 1 and then it will be touching Rajasthan western part on July 8. If any cyclone rises from Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal, pre-monsoon showers will reach Madhya Pradesh. Team is still making calculation of monsoon arrival. On Sunday, it was sunshine in Bhopal since morning hours. Temperature was changed from afternoon hours as partial clouds were there. There was minor changes in maximum and minimum temperature. Day temperature was recorded as 37 degrees Celsius and night temperature was recorded around 25 degrees Celsius. Temperature has increased by 5 degrees in many cities on Sunday. While Raisen recorded five degrees rise in day temperature, Bhopal recorded 4.7 degrees rise and temperature settled at 36.7 degrees Celsius. Ratlam and Narsinghpur recorded highest temperature as 39 degrees Celsius and Pachmarhi recorded lowest temperature as 30.8 degrees Celsius.
EoW arrestsex-City Cong Chief Hussain in Rs 1.5 cr scam





Staff Reporter

Former City Congress chief Sheikh Hussain Abdul Jabbar was arrested by the Economic Offences Wing (EoW) of Nagpur Police on Sunday for his alleged involvement in a scam of Rs 1.5 crore in Tajbagh Trust. A case was registered against him at Sakkardara police station in connection with embezzlement of funds. He was accused of using the funds of the trust without obtaining the permission of the Charity Commissioner or conducting an audit during his tenure as the Chairman of the trust from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2016.

A police official said that Sheikh Hussain and former Secretary Iqbal Ismail Velji were accused of embezzling Rs 1.5 crore in a span of five years during their tenure. Taj Ahmed Ali Ahmed Syed, who took over as Secretary after their tenure, discovered the alleged scam during an audit. The complaint was filed by Taj Ahmed Ali Ahmed Syed with the Sakkardara police on September 22, 2022, which led to the registration of a case of fraud against both Sheikh Hussain and Iqbal IsmailVelji. Both of them had applied for anticipatory bail in the Nagpur bench of the High Court, which was rejected by the court. Later, they applied for anticipatory bail in the Supreme Court, which was also rejected and the court directed Hussain and Velji to appear before the court of Judicial Magistrate First Class. The JMFC court remanded them to EoW custody till Wednesday.

The arrest of Sheikh Hussain has caused a stir in political circles. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) EoW Archit Chandak told The Hitavada that the documentary and technical evidence would be collected during the course of investigation. He has assured that the police would conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and take appropriate action against those found guilty. It is noteworthy that Sheikh Hussain had made offensive remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an event a few months ago.This had led to the officebearers of BJP submitting a complaint against him at the Sadar police station, demanding his arrest. Subsequently, a scam complaint was filed against him in the Taj Bagh Trust case.
IMPHAL,

LIFE started limping back to normalcy under the watchful eyes of Army drones and helicopters deployed for aerial reconnaissance as curfew was relaxed on Sunday in parts of Manipur which witnessed bloody ethnic rioting over the last few days. People were seen coming out in large numbers to buy food, medicines and other essential commodities during the curfew relaxation period from 7 am to 10 am in riot-affected Churachandpur town. Army and Assam Rifles columns conducted a flag march through the town as soon as the curfew relaxation ended at 10 am. In all some 120-125 Army columns have been deployed in the entire riot-hit State. Sources said some 10,000 soldiers, para-military and Central police forces have been deployed in Manipur. Chief Minister N Biren Singh said peace committees will be formed in every Assembly constituency to ensure that peace initiatives are implemented at the grassroots level. A defence statement said that 23,000 civilians from all communities have been rescued so far and were moved to military garrisons.

The clashes broke out after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in the ten hill districts of the State to protest against the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipurs population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live mostly in the hill districts. Ray of hope due to efforts of 120-125 Army and Assam Rifles columns who are working tirelessly for the past 96 hours to rescue civilians across all communities, curb violence and restore normalcy has emerged with no major violence being reported and curfew, therefore being relaxed from 7-10 am today in Churachandpur followed by flag march by security forces immediately thereafter, the statement said.

The past 24 hours also witnessed Army significantly enhancing surveillance efforts through aerial surveillance, movement of UAVs and redeployment of army helicopters within Imphal Valley. A total of 23,000 civilians have been rescued till now and moved to own military garrisons, it added. The curfew in Churachandpur, where violence was first reported on May 3, was also relaxed for two hours from 3 pm to 5 pm on Saturday.

With the law and order situation improving in Churachandpur district and after talks were held between the state Government and various stakeholders, Im pleased to share that the curfew will be partially relaxed as per the details shared below (sic), Chief Minister N Biren Singh tweeted on Saturday night, sharing a copy of the notification.
Special flight to bring back Mah students stuck in violence-hit Manipur: CM Shinde





MUMBAI,

MAHARASHTRA Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said 22 students from the State currently stuck in riot-hit Manipur will be first shifted to Assam from where a special flight will be arranged to bring them back home.

As many as 14 of them have been shifted to the Shiv Sena office in Manipur, the CMs office said in a statement.

Violent clashes broke out recently between tribals and members of the majority Meitei community in the north-eastern state of Manipur, which has so far displaced more than 13,000 people and killed at least 54.

The clashes broke out after a Tribal Solidarity March was organised in 10 hill districts of the State to protest against the Meitei communitys demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. In the statement, CM Shinde said his Government was keeping a watch on the situation in Manipur. His deputy Devendra Fadnavis also promised help to the affected students.

There are 22 students (in Manipur) from Maharashtra. I have spoken to two of them  Vikash Sharma and Tushar Awhad  and assured them of arranging a special flight to return home. I told them not to be afraid of anything, the State is making all the necessary arrangements to bring them back safely, he said. The students were studying in some of the technology institutes based in Manipur, the release said. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also spoken to the students and assured them of making arrangements for their safe return, said a release from his office. The situation for last some days has been tense in Manipur and students pursuing their courses in NIT were under pressure. Some students had contacted Fadnavis via SMS. Fadnavis spoke to them over a phone call and assured them of all types of support and help, it said.
Threat call to Gadkari: NIA to take over probe





Staff Reporter

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will take over the investigation of threat phone calls made to Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The calls were made by a murder convict named Jayesh Pujari alias Kantha, who was arrested from a jail in Belgavi, Karnataka. The NIA's investigation will be crucial in uncovering the full extent of this terror network and bringing the culprits to justice.

On January 14, Pujari made a threat call to Gadkari's public relations office, demanding Rs 100 crore and claiming to be a member of the Dawood Ibrahim gang. He made another call on March 21, threatening to harm Gadkari if Rs 10 crore was not paid. Pujari was brought to Nagpur on March 28 from a jail in Belagavi city of Karnataka State, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act was invoked against him. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has given the green signal to the NIA officials to go ahead with the investigation on the terror angle in the case as Pujari had relations with dreaded terrorists including Lashkar-e-Taiba's South Division chief Captain Naseer. Pujari had also taken training in arms in the North-East parts of the country.

The NIA officials already have a detailed progress report of the case, and more shocking information is likely to come out during the investigation. This case highlights the need for stronger measures against prison radicalisation and the spread of terrorism in jails, claimed sources. During Pujari's interrogation, it was revealed that he had met Naseer in jail and received training in bomb making. He also came in contact with other terrorists in the jail, including Fahad Koya, Afsar Pasha, as well as 'D' Gang members Rashid Malabari and Ganesh Shetty. These accused were supporting finance to Pujari in the jail. The police received information that Pujari gave a 'contract' to Shakeel to kill former Karnataka DCM Ishwar Appa. Shakeel was first arrested in 2018 for carrying drugs, and then in 2019, he was caught in the same crime. In 2021, he was arrested in a kidnapping and rape case. He met Pujari in jail, and Pujari helped him get bail.
WILTON  After three years of skyrocketing home prices and a matching increase in sales, the town is starting its required revaluation of all residential and commercial properties in Wilton.

"The town of Wilton is engaged in a state-mandated property revaluation to establish updated real estate assessments for the Oct. 1, 2023, grand list," Hollie M. Rapp, manager of assessing and tax collection for Wilton, said in a recent statement.

The revaluation, which is conducted every five years, determines the fair market value of every residential and commercial property in the town. The goal is to equalize the values of all properties to ensure the local tax burden is distributed equitably.

State law requires each municipality to conduct a revaluation every five years, with inspections required every 10 years. In Wilton, the last revaluation was as of Oct. 1, 2017. The town received a one-year deferral of the next revaluation, delaying it until 2023 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The assessment of each parcel of real estate is used to determine the amount of property tax paid by the owners. The mill rate is equal to $1 of tax for each $1,000 of a property assessment. To calculate the property tax, multiply the property assessment by the mill rate and divide by 1,000. For example, a property with an assessed value of $50,000 in a municipality with a mill rate of 20 mills would have a property tax bill of $1,000 per year.

The town of Wilton has contracted with Vision Government Solutions Inc., a state-certified revaluation company, to assist the assessor in completing the revaluation project, Rapp said. VGS is also working on the revaluation in Norwalk.

"The accuracy of the data is vital to the accuracy and uniformity of the assessments," she said. Therefore, the town is offering a few options for homeowners to provide the town with the necessary information on their properties.

A data mailer will be sent to all residential property owners, who will be asked to fill out the form and send it to Vision Government Solutions, Rapp said.

The data mailer, or form, may be submitted by email to mailbox1@vgsi.com, which is on the mailer. Another option is to complete the mailer and, where necessary, make any corrections and mail it back using the enclosed postage paid envelope, she said.

A response to this mailing with or without changes is required within 10 days of receipt. If there is no response, the information on file along with possible estimates for your property will be used for valuation purposes, Rapp said.

"Please keep in mind that properties may require inspections based on changes received or enumerated on the data mailer, if the property was recently sold, if the property has an open building permit, or randomly for quality control purposes," she said.

For questions, property owners should contact the Assessor's Office at 203-563-0121 or 203-563-0166.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. will provide $1.2 billion more in long-term military aid to Ukraine to further bolster its air defenses as Russia continues to pound Ukraine with drones, rockets and surface-to-air missiles, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

The aid package will be provided under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Unlike U.S. equipment, weapons and ammunition sent from Pentagon stocks that can be delivered to Ukraine quickly, this money is to be spent over the coming months or even years to ensure Ukraine's future security needs.

The Pentagon said it will fund air-defense munitions and drones for air defense, and provide equipment to help modify Western air-defense launchers, missiles and radars so they can be used with Ukraine's systems. It will also buy artillery rounds, howitzer ammunition, satellite imagery assistance and funding for ongoing maintenance and spare parts for a variety of systems. U.S. officials said the weapons include HAWK air-defense systems. They spoke on condition of anonymity because that has not yet been formally announced.

The Pentagon said the aid will build the capacity of Ukraine's military to defend its territory and deter Russian aggression over the long term.

Including this package, the U.S. has provided Ukraine nearly $37 billion in military aid since Russia invaded in February 2022.

The latest aid comes as Ukraine prepares to launch a spring offensive against Russian forces, with air defense a persistent issue.

Ukraine's air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, officials said Monday. Wreckage from a drone struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has routinely turned to Irans Shahed drones to bolster its firepower. And U.S. aid packages  including more immediate military weapons and support  have included systems to shoot down and otherwise defeat the drones.

___ Associated Press writer Tara Copp contributed to this report.
Andrew Brookes/Getty Images/Image Source

EDWARDSVILLE  The Edwardsville Police Department announced it issued a total of 80 traffic citations and 165 warnings for hands-free law violations during Aprils Distracted Driving Awareness Month enforcement campaign.

We strongly enforce traffic laws to reduce traffic crashes and to save lives, said Lt. Brandn Whittaker. This increased enforcement was implemented to help motorists avoid the often-deadly consequences of distracted driving with a simple reminder: Drop it and drive.
DELAWARE, OHIO  Mo Halasey of Collinsville has been awarded a spring 2023 Theory-to-Practice Grant from Ohio Wesleyan University, according to a press release.

Part of the OWU Connection, the competitive, university-funded grants support research, internship, service, and cultural-immersion opportunities.



Halasey will complete a project titled, "Living Latin in Rome and Florence," submitted as a co-applicant with Noelle Weaver, a junior from Dublin, Ohio. They will spend four weeks in July living and studying in Italy.

"The purpose of this project is to take the rare opportunity as classics students for Latin immersion in Italy by participating in two intensive on-site seminars," Weaver said.



"The Living Latin in Rome seminar provides an experience in spoken Latin with a focus on furthering our own language fluency and providing new pedagogical methods with 'living Latin' to teach in the classroom," Weaver added. "We will also use the Women Latinists in Florence seminar to explore the spaces of literary production of women authors, using primary sources and on-site workshops to develop and practice our research and language skills."



For the spring grant cycle, Ohio Wesleyan awarded grants totaling more than $60,700.



This fall, the OWU Connection will be fully incorporated into the university's curriculum, requiring all students to complete at least one project that requires them to Think Big (complete undergraduate research), Do Good (participate in community-engaged learning, including student leadership), Go Global (complete off-campus study) or Get Real (explore their future careers through meaningful internships and externships).



After the students complete their OWU Connection experiences, they will prepare reports and presentations based on their objectives and experiences, with many presenting at the university's annual Spring Student Symposium.



Learn more about the OWU Connection at www.owu.edu/connection and more about studying at Ohio Wesleyan at www.owu.edu/admission.



Founded in 1842, Ohio Wesleyan University is one of the nation's premier liberal arts universities. Located in Delaware, Ohio, the private university offers more than 70 undergraduate majors and competes in 24 NCAA Division III varsity sports.

Through its signature program, the OWU Connection, Ohio Wesleyan teaches students to integrate knowledge across disciplines, build a diverse and global perspective and apply knowledge in real-world settings. Ohio Wesleyan is featured in the book "Colleges That Change Lives" and included on the U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review "Best Colleges" lists.
New results from a U.S. Census Bureau simulation indicate a significant number of noncitizens were missed in the 2020 census, a national head count during which the Trump administration tried to prevent people in the United States illegally from being tallied at all.

Some civil rights groups pointed to the bureau's latest findings as evidence that, despite the Trump administration's failure to exclude residents in the country illegally from the 2020 count altogether, the former president's push contributed to an undercount for some racial and ethnic minorities.

A simulated head count by the statistical agency utilized 31 types of administrative records from government agencies and third-party sources to produce estimates of the U.S. population on April 1, 2020 that could be compared to the survey-like responses used in the last official tally of every U.S. resident. The simulation was an experiment which doesn't change the results of the once-a-decade count of every U.S. resident that helps determine political power and the distribution of $1.5 trillion in federal funding in the U.S.

Almost a fifth of noncitizens found in the administrative records had addresses that couldnt be matched in the 2020 census, suggesting that a significant fraction of noncitizens were missed, according to the U.S. Census Bureau report released Friday. By comparison, that same figure was 5.4% for citizens.

Using administrative records from government agencies that have records on immigration, welfare programs, motor vehicle registrations and other data, the test tallied 2.3% more people than in the actual census in 2020 that produced a head count of 331 million U.S. residents, primarily because the simulation captured more noncitizens residing in the U.S., the report said.

The simulation was a test to see how good a job administrative records perform in counting historically undercounted groups like racial and ethnic minorities, renters and young children. Its results actually bumped up the numbers for Hispanic and Black residents, two groups who were undercounted in the 2020 census, respectively, by 8.3 million people and 2.8 million people, the report said.

The administrative records census produced estimates of 11.6 million people in the U.S. with an unknown legal status.

Opponents have said Trump administration policies in 2019 and 2020 created a chilling effect which likely deterred immigrants, Hispanics and others from participating in the 2020 census.

In 2019, the Trump administration attempted to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census questionnaire, but the U.S. Supreme Court blocked it. In the middle of the 2020 census, President Donald Trump directed the Census Bureau to exclude people in the country illegally from numbers used for divvying up congressional seats among the states. An influential GOP adviser had advocated excluding them from the apportionment process in order to favor Republicans and non-Hispanic whites. Trump's memo was rescinded when President Joe Biden arrived at the White House in January 2021, before the census figures were released.

The Black population in the 2020 census had a net undercount of 3.3%. The undercount was almost 5% for Hispanics, 5.6% for American Indians and Native Alaskans living on reservations and 0.84% for children under age 18. Those undercounts were higher than in the 2010 census, though only the Hispanic count and tally of children had statistically significant differences from 2010 to 2020.

The Census Bureau simulation strongly indicates that Donald Trumps attempt at a race-motivated manipulation of the decennial census, despite being largely blocked in court, had a significant impact on noncitizen participation, which also may explain, in significant part, the substantial Latino undercount in 2020," said Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

Saenz added that the simulation points to the need to study and confront the reputational harm to the Census Bureau in the Hispanic community due to the manipulation by the Trump administration.

Failure to do so now risks long-term and serious damage to future Census data-collection efforts, he said.

Using administrative records produced lower population estimates in rural areas, mainly because of the more common use of post office boxes and rural route addresses rather than physical addresses, according to the simulation results. Counts from administrative records also were lower than the 2020 census figures for people between ages 65 and 74, Asians and people who identified as being two or more races. Among the reasons is that these populations were more likely to be double counted in the 2020 census.

Along with noncitizens, Blacks and Hispanics, the administrative records produced higher counts for males, working-age adults, children under age 15 and non-Hispanic whites.

At the state level, Minnesota and several other Midwestern states had the highest match rates between a person identified in an administrative record and a 2020 census record, while Hawaii had the lowest. Minnesota also had the highest rate of residents who answered the census questionnaire on their own without needing prompting from a census taker visiting their home.

___

Follow Mike Schneider on Twitter at @MikeSchneiderAP
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Linkedin Ian Horsburgh, Director and Country Head of Indonesia at Henley & Partners (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023 07:00 6 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0560f0ea 4 Companies USA,investment,united-states Free

By investing in another country, Indonesian citizens can receive alternative residence rights as well as a host of benefits such as enhanced global mobility, access to top-ranking educational institutions, world-class healthcare, and expanded business opportunities.

Interest in obtaining an alternative residence through investment has increased dramatically over the past few years as high-net-worth individuals from around the world seek to unlock greater global access and enable increased freedom in terms of where they and their families can live, work, and study. As the country with the leading economy worldwide, boasting a GDP of over USD 20 trillion, the USA is one of the most desirable locations for both business and alternative residence. Indonesian citizens who make a business investment in the USA can receive permanent residence to this global powerhouse through the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

The USA: A hotspot for millionaires

. (./.)

Affluent Indonesian investors who invest in the USA would be in good company, as the USA dominates the list of the Worlds Wealthiest Cities in 2023 when it comes to the number of millionaires living in the country, according to the latest report from Henley & Partners, the global leader in residence and citizenship by investment. New York City wears the crown as the wealthiest city in the world with 340,000 millionaires, while two other American wealth hubs  the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles  come in 3rd and 6th places, with 285,000 and 205,400 resident high-net-worth individuals, respectively.

Other cities such as Austin in Texas, West Palm Beach in Florida, and Scottsdale in Arizona feature high on the Top 10 list of fastest growing cities when it comes to resident millionaires over the past decade, with 102%, 90%, and 88% growth, respectively.

The right to live, work, and study in any of these leading international wealth hubs can be secured via the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.

Key benefits of investing in the USA

The USA offers a wide range of choices when it comes to lifestyle, education, geography, and climate. Here are a few more reasons why the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a top choice for wealthy Indonesian entrepreneurs seeking alternative residence:

Families welcome  Investors can include their spouse and any unmarried children who are under 21 years old.

Access to top-tier education  Your children receive the ultimate advantage through access to a large selection of highly rated schools and Ivy League universities nationwide.

Freedom to travel  The physical presence requirements are flexible, so you can travel easily between the USA, Indonesia, and any of the 34 countries that your EB-5 visa allows you to access visa-free.

Minimal application requirements  There is no business experience or specific language proficiency needed when applying to the program.

Legacy-building  Successful applicants can be eligible for citizenship after five years of living in the USA.

Business investments required

To receive permanent residence in the USA, applicants must fulfill the following two requirements:

Invest in a commercial enterprise associated with a government-approved regional center.

Applicants can choose to either commit USD 800,000 to a targeted employment area project in a rural area or an area with high unemployment, or USD 1.05 million into a non-targeted employment area project. Create or preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs for qualified USA workers.

Investors are also required to have a net worth of at least USD 1 million and be able to prove the legal source of their funds.

After 3036 months of submitting their application, successful applicants receive an EB-5 visa (green card), granting them and their families the opportunity to live, work, and study in any of the 50 states of the USA.

Being able to relocate yourself and your family to a more favorable country, especially one with three of the Top 10 wealthiest cities in the world, is an increasingly important aspect of international wealth and legacy planning for private clients. To find out more about how you and your family can receive green cards through the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, reach out to Ian Horsburgh, Country Head of Indonesia at Henley & Partners.

This article was published in collaboration with Henley & Partners
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Linkedin Aditya Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023

PT Merdeka Battery Materials, a nickel unit of miner Merdeka Copper Gold, has entered a conditional agreement to acquire 60-percent shares in PT Huaneng Metal Industry (HNMI), a nickel-processing facility in Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), Sulawesi.

The nickel facility was built by Eternal Tsingshan Group Limited, which happens to own IMIP and Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park. Both housed mining and processing firms related to nickel in Indonesia, mostly also Tsingshans subsidiary.

In a statement, Merdeka Battery, which comes under ticker MBMA, explained the proposed acquisition was valued around US$75 million and it targeted the deal to be completed by the middle of this year.

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Linkedin Anindito Ariwandono (The Jakarta Post) Bandung  Mon, May 8, 2023 09:23 6 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b05613885 1 Lifestyle neon-sign,local-product,local-products,bandung Free

A look into the life of one of Bandungs last generation of neon sign makers

Hong Kongs luminous heritage has been facing an imminent crisis for the past couple of years. Its neon-drenched streets have been facing a consistent decay in terms of intensity, where its neon signs (most of which came from the 1960-1970s) are increasingly being taken down due to hazard concerns and adherence to building codes.

While the Chinese government is actively issuing orders to dismantle the neon signs, and most that were produced during the British Hong Kong times are illegal, neon signs, in themselves, have also been decreasing in popularity worldwide.

People have been exchanging the exceptional warmth of the inert gas vivid glow in favor of the cold, dreary gleams of the LEDs due to the latter being significantly more cost-efficient (among other arrays of reasons). Or, simply: cheap. Its relevance, in turn, is being questioned.

In todays world, making neon signs has become a dying art.

Lights out

While neon signs might not hold the same cultural significance here in Indonesia, especially when compared to Hong Kong, their use has still been practiced for decades and they have seen their fair share of glory. It was and still is the source of livelihood for some artisans enduring the test of time.

I think the first neon sign in Indonesia was the one they made for Hotel Indonesia in 1962, said Endang Saepudin, speaking to The Jakarta Post on May 1. Endang is one of the last remaining neon-sign artisans in Bandung, West Java, and might be of the previous generation if they do not see any rekindled interest in the dying art form that ultimately leads to more demands.

Real neon signs are significantly more expensive in terms of production and operating costs as they require more electricity. According to some local makers and advertising companies, some of the transformers used in conventional neon signs are not even imported into Indonesia anymore, further diminishing their relevance in todays world. Its charm, however, is an entirely different subject.

As a child, one could remember staring at the curious red glow of the spectacles-shaped neon sign displayed at the optician where my parents often went. The glows depth was remarkably compelling. It was unlike anything I had seen before in my brief seven years of existence.

Talk shop: Endang standing in the middle of his workshop in Bandung. (JP/Anindito Ariwandono) (JP/Anindito Ariwandono)

These days, the opticians are using LED neon flex, said Endang, responding to my recollection. Give it a year or two, and the light will give out. Its different, he bawled.

The said form of LED lighting, according to Endang, was the last nail in the coffin for the neon sign industry in Indonesia. He spoke of the LED with a tinge of bitterness as he massaged his forehead with his right hand.

The flexible nature of the aptly named neon flex made it possible for even laymen to mimic the output of neon signs; Endang brashly rejected the term neon to be even associated with the LED.

I dont do LED jobs, he claimed proudly. New customers, however, are more familiar with the current definition of neon, which is not what Endang dabbles in.

I mean, everyone can do it. Im not interested in it. In those cases, Endang would often pass the job along to his colleagues, taking a small percentage as a success fee to get by.

Other players in the city, such as Rajawali Neon and Aneka Reklame, he said, to name a few, could be better too in a 2008 job with Golden Money Changer in Jl. Ir. H. Djuanda, Bandung, some of the players that submitted their work proposals were ones that usually maakloon (an absorbed Dutch word used to refer to outsourced work) their works to him.

In a way, they are a closely-knit community.

The way of the noble (gases)

Its a genuine art form, Endang said, regarding making neon signs.

And it can be considered an antique, maybe? he continued. It is, at this point. Some initiatives, for instance, like Londons Gods Own Junkyard or Hong Kongs Tetra Neon Exchange, treat neon signs within the realms of artworks and antiques/vintages, although both differ in their underlying missions.

Making a conventional neon sign would require an exact procedure that involves particular technical know-how; a keen eye for details; and a good, if not excellent, sense of craftsmanship.

Glass tubes of various lengths and thicknesses are heated in an open-gas furnace, rendering the tubes glowing red and thus malleable and, only then, carefully shaped into the desired forms or letters. These shaped tubes are injected with the inert/noble gas corresponding to the desired colors.

Endang learned the art of making neon signs from his brother in the 1980s for two years. His brother learned the trade autodidact but had some help, according to Endang, from the remnants of an initiative at Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), where they researched neon signs back in the 60s until the 70s. A lecturer, he said. Theres a whole history to it. His eyes lit up a bit, but he then decided to stop.

Like this, said Endang as he showed me a Tik-Tok video of him working the glass tubes over a furnace before switching to a video of a finished sign being installed on a wall over a blaring Mangku Purel track by Denny Caknan. The one shown in the video was made for a local milk tea joint a few months ago.

But nobody responded, said Endang as he stared weakly into his phone, peering over his glasses that hung almost at the end of his nose. No new orders.

Neon daze

Currently, Endang received, at most, one maintenance work per month, or two if Im luck, he said. Receiving orders to make new neon signs is a rare case for him right now.

If not for my past clients who are still using neon signs, I would have probably dismantled everything right now, he said as he looked up and gestured toward the second story of his house. Endang already took apart his workshop in Jakarta, usually manned by his brother. I would have had to pay for the overheads without any orders. Its just natural.

His workshop in Bandung is practically his last leg as a neon master craftsman. It is located just off Jl. Raya Cijerah and into the narrow alleyways of Gg. Pelita 1.

His one-person workshop is narrow, with most of the space taken by his workbench. Stacks of glass tubes were sitting idly on top, covered in dust. The blue-painted walls were lined with tubes that were already shaped.

Each side of the walls was equipped with a clock, implying Endangs constant pressing need to tell the time with minimum effort. The furnace stood almost in the middle, next to an apparatus he used to inject the tubes with the inert gases and the gas tanks imported from Italy by a company in Jakarta.

We stayed in touch almost every day as if we were waiting for the end, said Endang, referring to his contact at the inert gas distributor in Jakarta.

Endang recalled the golden age for him as a neon sign maker had been during the Soeharto regime. Nineteen-nineties, until the reformasi, he said. Those were the days. Everyone headhunted us despite not having finished formal school.

His works lasted for ages, as neon signs are supposed to. The one that I did for Ayam Goreng Cianjur in Cipanas, West Java, in 1991, even outlasted the back-plating multiple times, said Endang. They changed the white back-plating three times now since then.



When asked about his views about the future, Endang noted: I dont want to be overly optimistic. I will keep doing it as long as the gas suppliers are still around. He laughed.
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Linkedin Fikri Harish (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023

Political parties vying for seats in national legislature in 2024 seem to be waiting until the last minute to register their candidates, as the General Elections Commission (KPU) moved into the second and final week of registration on Monday.

So far, only the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS), which currently holds 8.7 percent of seats at the House of Representatives, has registered its candidates.

A total of 18 political parties will vie for 580 House seats during the legislative election, to be held concurrently with the presidential election on Feb. 14, 2024.

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Linkedin Mami Mizutori Geneva, Switzerland  Sat, November 5, 2022 06:40 190 f9a0243f8457f3abdb3d12d14d1147ae 2 Academia tsunami,Indian-ocean,Indonesia,early-warning-system,COP27,G20,United-Nations,small-islands,lessons Free

In 2004, the Indian Ocean Tsunami took the lives of more than a quarter of a million people and affected 14 countries. Indonesia, which bore the brunt of the tsunami, lost at least 170,000 people.

Now, 18 years later, we sadly find that still half of the countries of the world lack a multi-hazard early warning system, according to a new report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Even worse, Small Island Developing States, which are the most vulnerable to tsunamis, report that only one-third of them have such warning systems.

Tsunamis are rare but are one of the deadliest and most devastating hazards. In most cases, coastal communities only have minutes to act once a tsunami is detected.

Over 700 million people, with a high degree of urbanization, live in low-lying coastal areas and Small Island Developing States exposed to extreme oceanic events including tsunamis. Hence, strengthening tsunami early warning systems to be multi-hazard and to cover all at risk-communities, especially the most vulnerable groups, is essential to surviving one and minimizing damage.

Expanding multi-hazard capacities can help countries detect tsunamis that are triggered by forces other than earthquakes. Examples include the landslide that caused the 2018 Sunda Strait tsunami in Indonesia and the volcanic eruption that caused the 2022 Tonga tsunami.

The report also notes that few countries are investing in building their understanding of risk and helping communities prepare for these risks to take early action once warnings are issued. As early warnings are only as good as their ability to trigger life-saving actions, these elements should not be overlooked by authorities.

Some tsunami-prone countries, such as Indonesia, have invested in building local preparedness and have sought to strengthen the resilience of schools and hospitals. And Japan has for years now sponsored a school tsunami evacuation program for school children in 23 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

At the international level, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System, established the Ocean Decade Tsunami Program in 2022. Under this program, it aims to train all at-risk coastal communities in the event of a tsunami by 2030 by expanding its Tsunami Ready Recognition Program.

However, much more is needed to help developing countries build up their capacity to develop and maintain effective early warning systems that leave no one behind.

Implementing Target G of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which calls for the expansion of early warning systems by 2030, can help developing countries close the coverage gap.

However, expanding early warning coverage will require strong political commitment and substantial resources.

One opportunity to galvanize international support is during the upcoming COP27 climate change conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, and where disaster losses and damages are expected to be a key area of the negotiations. Early warning systems have proven to be a concrete measure to avert and minimize losses and damages, while also reducing risk and enhancing preparedness and adaptation.

At COP27, the UN secretary-general will launch the Early Warnings for All Action Plan, led by WMO in partnership with UNDRR. This Action Plan will provide a roadmap for the realization of the goal set in March by the UN secretary-general that every person on Earth be covered by an early warning system in the next five years.

Some of the funding being promised by developed countries for climate resilience could be used to bolster early warning coverage for coastal communities, which are at risk of both tsunamis and extreme weather.

Another opportunity, also this month, is the Group of 20 heads of state and government summit which will take place in Bali, Indonesia. Indonesia is well-placed to advocate on behalf of developing countries at the Summit as it holds the current G20 presidency and was the host of the 2022 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.

The tragedy that was the Indian Ocean Tsunami left much devastation behind it but also left us with important lessons on what it takes to keep communities safe.

We now have several opportunities to build on these lessons to achieve early warning and early action for all. On this World Tsunami Awareness Day of Nov. 5, let us commit to ensuring no one is left behind and not wait for another tragedy to take action.

***

The writer is special representative of the United Nations secretary-general for disaster risk reduction and head of the United Mami Mizutori Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR).
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Linkedin Editorial board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023 05:00 6 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0560b2e6 1 Editorial press-freedom,UN,digital,Censorship,bullying,doxing,democracy,Internet,tech-giants,Advertisement Free

Remembering the virtues of press freedom remains as relevant today as when the United Nations General Assembly declared in 1993 to mark May 3 as World Press Freedom Day. Thirty years later, we may want to rethink how to convey the message effectively, considering the massive disruption that information technology has caused to the way journalists and news media outlets operate.

Its certainly a completely different and more challenging environment.

Those who are concerned about freedom of speech and other basic rights should never tire in reminding on this day that a free and independent press is indispensable to a functioning democracy. The message is more important since the world is becoming less democratic.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in his speech to mark World Press Freedom Day said, Freedom of the press is the foundation of democracy and justice. It gives all of us the facts we need to shape opinions and speak truth to power. But in every corner of the world, freedom of the press is under attack.

Many countries have reverted to authoritarianism, while in others, including established democracies, there are signs of deterioration in the quality of freedom.

The ongoing digital transformation has a lot to do with this.

For one, the platforms on which the news media operate have changed. Print and broadcast that dominated the landscape are now peripheral to the digital media, the prime if not the only source of news and information for most people. These legacy media have made the switch only to find a fiercely competitive landscape that is filled with so many new players.

The rise of social media has allowed millions more people around the world to disseminate news and information, without practicing the strict disciplines and ethics in journalism. Misinformation and news that have not been subjected to verification are now rampant and some even going viral in the digital world, and they are eclipsing the news that journalists provide.

Press freedom comes under even more attacks from those who find the internet and social media convenient, powerful and effective weapons to silence critics. The use of paid bots (buzzers in Indonesian net parlance) is rampant to bully and harass people, and to incite violence that could lead to real physical harm. Many Indonesian journalists and activists critical of the government have been the target of doxing, the practice of disclosing personal information that threatens them and their families.

Governments find they can shut down or slow down internet connections, and increasingly in many countries the ability to order tech platforms to take content down on their behalf. These technological companies, whose failure in putting in place an effective content moderation mechanism to screen out bad from good content, willingly collaborate with governments as this effectively absolves them of responsibility for what appears on their platforms.

Some 10 to 15 years ago, when social media began, many talked optimistically about digital democracy, especially when it led to the Arab Spring. That mood has changed and now we are seeing the rise of digital authoritarianism.

News media companies are finding the digital transformation compromising their ability to perform their duty as the fourth pillar of democracy. They have yet to come up with effective ways to raise revenue in the digital world. The old business model of relying on ads income to finance their operation worked effectively in the analog world, but in the digital world, the lions share of ad revenues goes to the global tech companies that offer precise targeting for advertisers. Many traditional news outlets have closed, and many more are cutting back the size of their staff and operation.

The digital transformation has led to new forms of censorship that are more subtle, draconian and deadlier. And this is coming at a time when journalism and the media outlets are struggling for survival and existence. The message of World Press Freedom Day needs to be tailored to this new condition, and more importantly, to come with answers. Otherwise, there will not be much to commemorate, let alone celebrate, on May 3 next year and the years after.
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Linkedin Tenggara Strategics (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023 07:00 6 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b0560f8a8 4 Academia the-brief Free

With the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) settling on Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo as its presidential candidate, the other parties are readjusting their positions with regard to their own nominations ahead of the 2024 elections. Parties that in the past formed alliances to field common candidates are revisiting their positions, and some are contemplating joining the PDI-P in supporting Ganjars candidacy.

After PDI-P chair Megawati Soekarnoputri announced Ganjar as the partys candidate on April 21, negotiations on forming alliances are taking a more serious tone than they have in the recent past. Party leaders have held meetings, some widely covered by the media, but the real negotiations are taking place behind closed doors.

Ganjar is the only presidential candidate that has secured the presidential ticket. The PDI-P won enough seats in the 2019 legislative elections to have the automatic right to nominate its presidential and vice-presidential candidate. All other parties must pool their House of Representative seats to meet the threshold in fielding candidates.

Two other names already declared as presidential candidates are Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto and former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan. Their nominations are not 100 percent set as the parties backing them are now engaging in different negotiations. Complicating the matter is the role that President Joko Jokowi Widodo plays in all this.

On Tuesday, President Jokowi invited the chairs of six political parties that are part of his coalition government ostensibly for a post-Ramadan dinner, but insiders said they discussed politics, including the presidential election. One idea the president has been mooting is for Ganjar and Prabowo to run on the same ticket, with the defense minister playing second fiddle.

Prabowo has outrightly rejected this proposal, on more than one occasion. After Tuesdays dinner, he told reporters that he would run as president and nothing less. You could hardly blame him. All opinion polls put him as the leading candidate ahead of Ganjar and Anies.

One coalition that has crumbled is the three-member United Indonesian Coalition (KIB) led by the Golkar Party. The Islamist United Development Party (PPP) has already declared it is joining the PDI-P in supporting Ganjars nomination. The National Mandate Party (PAN) is contemplating following suit but it is hoping that all three join and negotiate with the PDI-P for concessions in return for their support for Ganjar.

Golkar, whose chairman Airlangga Hartarto, is vying for the vice-presidential slot, has not made any commitment, but he is talking to the Prabowo camp.

Prabowo is only too happy to welcome Golkar into his coalition, now consisting of his own Gerindra party and the Nation Awakening Party (PKB). PKB chairman Muhaimin Iskandar has made it a condition in return for his party support that he be picked as running mate. Bringing Golkar into the fold would take the pressures off Prabowo.

Whats more

Anies position is secured for now with the support of the NasDem Party, the Democratic Party and the Islamist Justice Welfare Party (PKS).

NasDem chair Surya Paloh was conspicuously absent at Jokowis dinner on Tuesday. The party is part of the coalition government, but it is now the main party backing the candidacy of Anies, Jokowis political nemesis. NasDem has refused to back off despite threats of getting expelled from the government. The party has three ministers in Jokowis cabinet.

Although Jokowi does not chair a political party, he still has some clout in the run-up to the presidential elections. He commands the loyalty of millions of supporters, who are non-partisan, and will vote for the party and presidential candidate that he endorses. The constitution bars him from running for a third term in office, but his main interest in the 2024 elections is to ensure his successor protects his legacies. This means either Prabowo or Ganjar, but definitely not Anies.

Parties have until Nov. 25 to decide on their nominations for presidential and vice-presidential candidates. So, any coalitions formed today can still change up until then.

With all the presidential slots almost taken by the three names, parties are focusing their attentions on the running-mate positions. Among the most prominent names discussed are West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil, Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno, State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Minister Erick Thohir, Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD, PKB chair Muhaimin, Golkar chair Airlangga and Democratic Party chair Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono. East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa is the only woman in the field, and even then, her name is barely mentioned compared with the others.

Some of these names have surfaced because of their popularity (Ridwan, Sandiaga, Erick and Mahfud); for their money (Sandiaga and Erick), because they chair a party (Muhaimin, Airlangga, Agus) and Khofifah because she is a woman and hails from East Java, one of the most heatedly contested battlegrounds in past elections.

The running-mate positions are the subject of negotiations between the parties as they form coalitions ahead of the elections. If they cannot get the slot, they would settle for seats in the Cabinet. In this tussling, the PDI-P has the unenviable position of dictating the terms for joining its coalition in supporting Ganjars candidacy.

For most parties, their main priority is to win as many seats as possible in the national and local legislative elections, which will take place simultaneously with the presidential election on Feb. 14, 2024. Backing the right presidential candidate could boost their electoral chances, and conversely, backing the wrong horse could cost them votes.

The weeks and months ahead will see tough political negotiations between the parties.

What weve heard

President Joko Widodo gathered the chairpersons of government-supporting parties at the State Palace on May 2. He did not invite NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh, who has declared former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan as the partys presidential candidate.

Several politicians who were aware of the meeting said that Jokowi and the party bosses discussed coalition options and the candidates to be supported. Among them are the pair of Ganjar Pranowo and Sandiaga Uno, supported by the PDI0P and PPP, as well as the pair of Prabowo Subianto-Erick Thohir, who win support from Gerindra, Golkar, PKB, and PAN. "They will share power if one of the pairs wins," said the source.

Another topic discussed was efforts to weaken the coalition of political parties that support Anies. According to a source, PKB chairman Muhaimin Iskandar and Golkar Party chairman Airlangga Hartarto were assigned to meet with Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY). They lobbied SBY to join the coalition of parties supporting Prabowo. Muhaimin served as a minister under SBYs presidency.

Several sources who know Jokowi's scenario also revealed that Jokowi is trying to push and fully support Prabowo. They said that Jokowi was not happy with the announcement of Ganjar as a presidential candidate of the PDI-P because the Central Java governor is perceived as a party candidate instead of a candidate who is anointed by Jokowi. Therefore, Jokowi encouraged the emergence of other candidates who represent his choice. "Support will be directed toward Prabowo," he said.

Disclaimer

This content is provided by Tenggara Strategics in collaboration with The Jakarta Post to serve the latest comprehensive and reliable analysis on Indonesias political and business landscape. Access the latest edition of Tenggara Backgrounder to read the articles listed below:

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. Turkmenistan will join TRACECA (Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia) corridor by the end of the year, Asset Assavbayev, Secretary General of the Permanent Secretariat (PS) of the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) TRACECA, told Trend.

According to Assavbayev, from a legal point of view, the work has been completed, and all TRACECA member countries have expressed their readiness to accept this country into the organization.

"I would like to note that Turkmenistan, by joining this organization, will be able to accelerate the development of its transport sector, as well as the processes of digitalization of cargo transportation. In addition, the country will receive simplified access to 13 TRACECA member countries. In turn, new opportunities for the development of transport in Central Asian countries will open up," the secretary-general said.

Speaking about the possible dates of Turkmenistan's entry into TRACECA, Assavbayev noted that the country will join the organization in the fall of 2023
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Linkedin Brook K. Baker Boston, Massachusetts, United States  Mon, May 8, 2023 06:09 6 5fceed71997e5776a1634d25dc61936a 2 Academia Indonesia,European-Union,CEPA,negotiation,monopoly,medicine,intellectual-property-rights,COVID-19,vaccine Free

The next round of negotiations on an Indonesia-European Union (EU) Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is scheduled for today, May 8, in Brussels. The 2016 textual proposal from the EU contains multiple provisions that threaten access to affordable medicines in Indonesia and would impose intellectual property (IP) protections far in excess of those required under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) in effect since 1995.

The EU must withdraw all of its demands for TRIPS-plus IP protections on medicines, and Indonesia must hold steadfast in opposing measures that would needlessly interfere with its human rights duty to secure access to affordable medicines for its population.

Assured access to adequate and affordable supplies of life-saving medicines has achieved new urgency in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic Indonesia, like most of its Global South counterparts, suffered the ravages of delayed access to covid vaccines, medicines (especially outpatient antiviral medicines like Paxlovid), and diagnostic tests.

Even after biopharmaceutical companies received massive infusions of public tax dollars to support research and development, clinical trials, and expanded manufacturing capacity, companies secured exclusive IP protections that safeguarded them against competition. Thereafter, they preferentially supplied huge stockpiles of vaccines, tests, and medicines to high income countries, sold at supra-competitive price earning nearly US$90 billion in profits, and put low- and middle-income countries like Indonesia at the end of the line. Millions of lives were needlessly lost on account of this appalling pharmaceutical apartheid.

The specifics of the EUs current trade negotiation demands are unclear because many details were left open for negotiation in its original textual proposal. However, the broad strokes of its TRIPS-plus, pro-monopoly demands are clear.

First, instead of allowing Indonesia to adopt an international patent exhaustion rule and to import a medicine lawfully put in the market anywhere in the world, Article X.3 of the EU proposal would only allow national or regional exhaustion of rights.

However, Article 167 of the Indonesia Patents Law of 2016 currently allows imports of any patented pharmaceuticals that have been lawfully marketed outside Indonesia. This right of international exhaustion, otherwise known as parallel importation, would allow Indonesia to comparison shop for cheaper versions of a patent owners medicines when it has been lawfully sold anywhere with economic returns already earned by the patent holder. International exhaustion/parallel importation is clearly authorized by Article 6 of the TRIPS Agreement.

Second, the EU is attempting, via Article X.41.2, to force Indonesia to extend patent term protections beyond the 20 years required by the TRIPS Agreement whenever the regulatory processes for authorizing use of a medicines results in an effective term of market protection less than 15 years.

Both the United States and EU routinely attempt to force such patent term extension rules (known as supplementary protection certificates in the EU) on trading partners to give pharmaceutical patent owners a longer time to exclude competitors and charge monopoly prices. At present, Indonesia wisely limits patents to the TRIPS requirement  20 years  that is already more than enough.

Third, the EU seeks to impose a whole new monopoly regime on Indonesia in the form of data exclusivity. Currently, Indonesia has no data exclusivity, which is not required by the TRIPS Agreement. This means that a generic producer can rely on or reference the originators regulatory data to establish that its bioequivalent medicine is safe and effective.

This avoids any duty to conduct costly, protracted, and ultimately unethical and duplicate clinical trials. In contrast, the EU has a data/market exclusivity period of 10 years during which competing companies cannot receive authorization to market a generic equivalent by relying on the originators data or prior registration.

The EU also grants an extra years protection for a new use with significant clinical benefit. Although the time period for exclusivity in Article X.44 of the EUs textual proposal is now undefined, multi-year data exclusivity poses a huge threat to access to cheaper generic products in Indonesia and could conceivably restrict registration of generic medicines lawfully produced under a compulsory or government use license.

This impact on compulsory licenses is particularly concerning given that Indonesia has previously issued compulsory licenses three times to secure more affordable access to antiretroviral medicines to treat HIV and Hepatitis B. More recently in 2021, Indonesia issued a government use license on Remdesivir to treat COVID-19. EU-style data exclusivity has no exception for medicines produced via a compulsory license, which would greatly reduce Indonesias ability to respond to pandemics and other urgent health needs.

Fourth, the EU seeks new IP enforcement measures, including border measures, that could deter generic entry and thus reduce access to expanded and cheaper sources of supply.

The EU should publicly renounce its effort to impose TRIPS-plus demands on Indonesia, a country with 1/10 the per capital GNI as the EU.

Indonesia has a high burden of infectious and chronic diseases and suffered significant waves of COVID-19 infections. The European Parliament has repeatedly chastised the European Commission not to pursue TRIPS-plus provisions in its trade negotiations with low- and middle-income countries like Indonesia. Even the EC itself has recently acknowledge that some of its existing IP protections for pharmaceuticals have gone too far and that it needs to shorten presumptive data exclusivity periods and adopt a regional compulsory licensing regime to address future health emergencies.

The status quo of rich countries imposing ever increasing monopoly protections to benefit the market control and profiteering of their transnational pharmaceutical giants must end. The right to health is too precious to the welfare of Indonesia for it to accede to unconscionable demands for longer, stronger, and broader monopolies on medicines.

***

The writer is a law professor at Northeastern University School of Law and senior policy analyst for Health Global Access Project. The views expressed are his own.
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Linkedin S Faizi Trivandrum, India  Tue, May 9, 2023 02:33 5 5fceed71997e5776a1634d25dc62cdb7 2 Academia unions,Asia,EU,conflict,Korea,World-War-II,religion,peace Free

Europe, once a theatre of internecine wars, now has a robust European Union shaping the common destiny of its people. Although Europe is only a subcontinent of Asia as Arnold Toynbee had observed and as is visible to anyone looking at a map, we still not have a common Asian platform for economic and political cooperation.

It is high time Asia had its well mandated regional organization to secure a common Asian future, ending the costly hostilities and political egos. We can have the Asian Union even when the bilateral hostilities, unique to Asia, refuse to go away completely.

Asia is the only continent where there are live hostilities today: India-Pakistan and South-North Koreas; the conflicts in a few West Asia countries are, however, not openly bilateral. The China-Japan rift is more emotional than anything and could be more readily surmounted through sensible diplomatic endeavors.

The congenital rivalry within the two sets of twin sisters  India-Pakistan and South-North Koreas  may take more time to resolve, but would definitely be resolved in mutual interest once the common gains are in view and a once matured, forward looking political leadership is there to steer the respective countries. A pan Asian Union would make peace and economic progress in the region real.

Look at the history of Europe. Countries have been forming and reforming there for the greater part of its history. Violence was a daily reality in most of the prosperous countries of today. Factional disputes within its imported religion of Christianity  an Asian religion  was good enough for countries of Europe to go to war for a good part of its latter history. And to engender violence within its societies too.

Internal conflicts and violence within the European boarders drastically reduced with the launch of imperialist onslaughts. They shifted the theatres of war and violence to the rest of the world, turning most of Asia into its victim.

Europe changed this rule only with the first and second pan European wars, wrongly called world wars, and the second big war devastated the warring imperial countries militarily and economically, to our good fortune, resulting in their departure from the countries they had occupied.

If the countries of Europe whose history is rightly be termed savage, could shed their hostility, end wars and eventually give up a large part of their respective national sovereignty to create the powerful EU, cant the countries of Asia unite in our common interest. Incidentally, it is worth noting that the EU was created in 1993, marking 500 years of Colombus invasion of what was later called America and the subsequent occupation of the continent. The treaty signing was not held in 1992, the exact year of five centuries, to provide time for the political leaders and diplomats to engage in the Earth Summit process of that year.

There are greater reasons for Asia to unite than Europe had. To overcome the entrenched poverty, to build our economies based on our vast resources, to realize the potential of the immense human talent available, to protect the natural environment and more importantly to keep Asia peaceful and free of external interference.

A collective Asian position on economic issues in the negotiations with the West can end the skewed trade relations and mark an end to the post-colonial exploitation.

Asia is home to the ancient civilizations of the Arabs, India, China and Persia; it produced all the religions practiced on earth as well as Confucianism. The West has nothing even remotely comparable to the tremendous cultural, ethnic and linguistic diversity of Asia. It has not colonized countries  with the aberration of Japan, but has been victim of all the predatory imperialists of Europe and suffered massive theft of its resources.

Asia has survived the imperial onslaught, bounced back and chartered its development course that is already yielding remarkable results. And it is time to take it forward by forging political and economic alliance across the region.

Asia already has two good precedents to build upon: ASEAN in the east and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in the west. Both these bodies are fairly concrete groupings and have yielded valuable lessons to their respective members in regional collectivity. The acronyms ASEAN and GCC appear on the daily conversations of the peoples of the respective regions.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) had a modest start and continues to remain weak. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is emerging as a strong regional body with its expanded membership that includes Russia, and deepening its agenda progressively.

All these experiences can be creatively applied to establish a pan Asian body of 48 countries for political and economic cooperation.

One reason why Africa has no wars or self-defeating hostility between countries is, in great measure, the influence of the African Union. When Asia attains that level of maturity the world shall be a better place. The threat of NATO in the region can be avoided and the incongruous Quad can be done away with. Countries can trade among them in a number of currencies of the region and people can travel without visas.

Our democracies are at different stages of development; however, nearly all are on the trajectory toward maturity. The Asian Union can accelerate the process of deepening democracy across the region as the economic and social dividends of democracy would then become more obvious.

Japan may not be initially enthusiastic about the Asian Union due to its dependence on the US on foreign policy, but once convinced that the US is actually a dispensable burden and that the Chinese threat is largely imaginary they would want to join too.

The statute of the new union could be designed in a way that the reach of its mandate and the coverage of subjects could be incremental, and allowing room for accommodating the differences across countries. Europes experience vividly tells us that the neighboring countrys progress and ones own is inextricably linked, which should be a compelling reason to shed hostility and envy toward the neighbors.

The government leaders, given to conventional thinking, may take a long time to address the goal of an Asian union. It would be the role of the civil society, political movements and the progressive media to take this up on their agenda and build a peoples movement to create the Asian Union.

***

The writer is an international environmental policy specialist and a United Nations environmental negotiator
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Linkedin Helen Rowe (The Jakarta Post) Agence France-Presse/London  Mon, May 8 2023

Prince William's wife Catherine on Saturday chose a floral headpiece instead of a tiara for the coronation of the United Kingdoms King Charles III, in line with the "green" tone set for the coronation by the king.

Charles, a long-time environmental advocate with a passion for nature, made his wishes clear when he sent out coronation invitations featuring the Green Man, an ancient figure from British folklore symbolizing the arrival of spring and rebirth.

The break with tradition was also in keeping with Charles's reported desire that the coronation be "meritocratic not aristocratic", which saw the aristocracy largely replaced with "community heroes" who had earned their place.

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Linkedin Aditya Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8 2023

The State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Ministry is in the process of consolidating the infrastructure sector to reduce their number from nine to four.

The plan was in line with a recommendation made by the Boston Consulting Group two years ago to keep a small number of firms with specialized segmentation, SOEs Minister Erick Thohir said on Wednesday, as quoted by Kontan.

Smaller infrastructure firms would be merged into the National Asset Management Company (PPA) and state-owned holding company Danareksa. Meanwhile, the process for bigger SOEs, such as Waskita Karya, PP, Wijaya Karya, Adhi Karya and Hutama Karya, is still being studied.

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Linkedin Andrew Marszal (The Jakarta Post) Agence France-Presse/Los Angeles, United States  Mon, May 8 2023

The Hollywood writers' strike broke out this week over pay, but the refusal of studios like Netflix and Disney to rule out artificial intelligence (AI) replacing human scribes in the future has only fueled anger and fear on the picket lines.

With their rapidly advancing ability to eerily mimic human conversation, artificial intelligence (AI) programs like ChatGPT have spooked many industries recently. In the United States the White House this week summoned Big Tech to discuss the potential risks.

As part of the weeks-long talks with studios and streamers that collapsed on Monday, the Writers Guild of America asked for binding agreements to regulate the use of AI.

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Linkedin Sunghee Hwang and Cat Barton (The Jakarta Post) Agence France-Presse/Seoul  Mon, May 8 2023

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was in Seoul on Sunday for a landmark summit with South Korea's president as the two countries seek to mend ties in the face of growing nuclear threats from Pyongyang.

Kishida is making the first official bilateral visit by a Japanese leader to South Korea in over a decade. He first headed to Seoul's National Cemetery, where war veterans, including from the fight against Japanese colonial rule, are buried, to lay flowers and pay his respects.

Kishida then went into summit talks with South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, who has made resetting ties with Japan a top priority for his administration. Yoon was in Tokyo in March for a fence-mending visit.

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Linkedin Martin Abbugao (The Jakarta Post) Agence France-Presse/Singapore  Mon, May 8 2023

The festering crisis in Myanmar will loom over talks between Southeast Asian leaders in Indonesia this week, as they renew calls for an end to the escalating violence.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military putsch that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in February 2021, with the junta's bloody crackdown on dissent sparking social unrest and an economic disaster.

ASEAN, long decried by critics as a toothless talking shop, has been trying to kick-start a five-point plan agreed with Myanmar two years ago after mediation attempts to end violence failed.

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Linkedin Angie Teo, Chayut Setboonsarng and Devjyot Ghoshal (The Jakarta Post) Reuters/Bangkok  Tue, May 9 2023

Shanghai resident Daniel Bian drank in the sweeping views over the Thai capital as he lay on a deckchair beside a swimming pool on the 19th floor of a luxury condominium.

"I feel alive. I feel free," said an excited Bian, dapper in tinted sunglasses, flat-topped navy-blue hat and a wraparound tunic cinched at the waist, his hair hanging loosely to his shoulders. "This is my dream."

Cooped up in China for three years under some of the world's toughest curbs against COVID-19, Bian is among a flood of mainland Chinese hunting for property buys in the Southeast Asian nation since Beijing opened its borders this year.

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Linkedin Fikri Harish (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, May 9 2023

The relationship between President Joko Jokowi Widodo and NasDem Party chairman Surya Paloh has gone to pot since the latter decided to endorse former Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan for the 2024 presidential race.

But it was only recently that the two politicians finally came to terms with the fact they have gone their separate ways in charting the path of the nations future, though it is clear that neither of them wishes to burn their bridges, with Coordinating Maritime and Investment Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan now serving as a go-between.

Signs of a rift between the pro-government NasDem Party and the President have been growing since the party decided to nominate Anies last year. Formerly an ally of Jokowi, Anies has emerged as the strongest opposition figure in all presidential election surveys.

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Linkedin Nina A. Loasana and Yvette Tanamal (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Labuan Bajo, Flores  Tue, May 9 2023

The fallout from the 2021 Myanmar coup will loom large over the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Indonesia this week despite the juntas absence, with President Joko Jokowi Widodo expressing regret over an attack on a diplomatic convoy delivering humanitarian relief in the conflict-ridden country.

As chair of ASEAN and host of the regional summitry this year, Indonesia has sought to implement a five-point peace plan agreed with Myanmar two years ago that called for the cessation of violence and the granting of access to humanitarian assistance, following a pandemic-era putsch that has sparked violent clashes between the junta forces and a multi-headed resistance.

Now, just days before he is set to open the summit, Jokowi had to get tough with the warring sides after a mission involving regional humanitarian relief agency the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA Centre) got caught in crossfire.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. FlyDubai has increased the number of flights from Dubai (UAE) to Ashgabat (Turkmenistan) to four times a week, Trend reports with reference to the Turkmen media.

According to the information, the flights will be operated on Boeing 737 MAX aircraft on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Previously, flights were operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The planes depart from Dubai (DXB) at 23:55 (GMT+4), and the arrival time at Ashgabat Airport (ASB) the next day is at 03:25 (GMT+5). The return flight departs at 04:55 (GMT+5), and in Dubai (DXB) it will be at 06:45 (GMT+4).

The airline FlyDubai, headquartered in Dubai (UAE), has created a route network of more than 100 destinations, with flights operated by 68 aircraft.

Meanwhile, FlyDubai resumed regular flights from Dubai to Ashgabat back in January 2023.
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Linkedin Fikri Harish (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, May 8, 2023

President Joko Jokowi Widodo said on Sunday, ahead of the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, that the Myanmar crisis must end soon.

Jokowi arrived in Labuan Bajo on Sunday to inspect the final preparations for the event before chairing the summit on Tuesday.

More than 700 delegates have confirmed their attendance, with ASEAN leaders again choosing to bar Myanmars military administration from attending the summit due to its lack of progress in implementing the Five-Point Consensus (5PC), an ASEAN peace plan the junta chief agreed to after the coup in 2021.

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Linkedin Agencies Yangon, Myanmar  Mon, May 8, 2023

A convoy of diplomats travelling in Myanmar came under fire from an unknown armed group, a military official and a diplomat said Monday.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup deposed Aung San Suu Kyi's administration in February 2021.

On Sunday a convoy of several vehicles travelling in Taunggyi township in eastern Myanmar's Shan State was attacked by an unknown armed group, a foreign diplomat based in Yangon told AFP on condition of anonymity.

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Linkedin Reuters Beijing, China  Mon, May 8, 2023 10:15 6 d5259e4d93052b0e76bee70b05616233 2 Asia and Pacific China,space,Earth,orbit,US,race Free

An experimental Chinese spacecraft returned to Earth on Monday after staying in orbit for 276 days, China's state media reported, completing a landmark mission to test the country's reusable space technologies.

The uncrewed spacecraft returned to the Jiuquan launch centre in northwest China on Monday as scheduled, according to state media.

No details were given on what the spacecraft was, what technologies were tested, how high it flew, and where its orbits had taken it since its launch in early August 2022. Images of the craft have also yet to be released to the public.

The test marks an "important" breakthrough in China's research into reusable spacecraft technology that will provide a more convenient and inexpensive way to mount future space missions, state media reported.

In 2021, what may have been a similar spacecraft flew to the edge of space and returned to Earth on the same day in a mission that was also kept largely under wraps. It landed on Earth "horizontally," according to China's main space contractor at the time.

Commentators on Chinese social media have speculated that Beijing has been developing a spacecraft like the US Air Force's X-37B, an autonomous spaceplane that can remain in orbit for years.

The uncrewed and reusable X-37B returned to Earth in November last year in its sixth and latest mission, after more than 900 days in orbit.

Topics : China space Earth orbit US race
OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $1.93-$2.07 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $2.01. The company issued revenue guidance of -. OGE Energy also updated its FY23 guidance to $1.93-2.07 EPS.

OGE Energy Trading Up 1.1 %

OGE traded up $0.42 during trading on Friday, reaching $37.75. The company had a trading volume of 1,029,685 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,039,257. The stock has a market cap of $7.56 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.89, a PEG ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 0.73. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $36.78 and a 200-day simple moving average of $38.03. OGE Energy has a 52 week low of $33.28 and a 52 week high of $42.91. The company has a quick ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80.

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OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Rating) last released its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $0.19 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.15 by $0.04. OGE Energy had a return on equity of 9.71% and a net margin of 12.70%. The business had revenue of $544.60 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $556.82 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.39 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 7.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts anticipate that OGE Energy will post 2.01 EPS for the current fiscal year.

OGE Energy Increases Dividend

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 28th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 10th were paid a $0.4141 dividend. This is a positive change from OGE Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 6th. This represents a $1.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.39%. OGE Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 78.67%.

A number of research firms have weighed in on OGE. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH began coverage on OGE Energy in a research note on Thursday, April 20th. They issued a neutral rating and a $37.00 target price on the stock. Mizuho cut their price target on OGE Energy from $40.00 to $36.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on OGE Energy in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. TheStreet lowered OGE Energy from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Finally, UBS Group lowered OGE Energy from a buy rating to a neutral rating and cut their price target for the company from $41.00 to $39.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 28th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $38.75.

Insider Activity at OGE Energy

In related news, Director David L. Hauser acquired 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were bought at an average price of $35.09 per share, with a total value of $35,090.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 3,000 shares in the company, valued at $105,270. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other OGE Energy news, Director David E. Rainbolt purchased 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 27th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $36.65 per share, for a total transaction of $183,250.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 15,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at $549,750. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director David L. Hauser purchased 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $35.09 per share, for a total transaction of $35,090.00. Following the purchase, the director now directly owns 3,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $105,270. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have purchased a total of 6,100 shares of company stock valued at $221,925 over the last quarter. 12.90% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On OGE Energy

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. American Century Companies Inc. increased its holdings in OGE Energy by 56.9% in the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 52,482 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,140,000 after buying an additional 19,035 shares during the period. Citigroup Inc. increased its holdings in OGE Energy by 24.4% in the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 56,516 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,305,000 after buying an additional 11,082 shares during the period. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can increased its holdings in OGE Energy by 14.9% in the 1st quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 120,197 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $5,036,000 after buying an additional 15,620 shares during the period. Sei Investments Co. increased its holdings in OGE Energy by 16.1% in the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 38,387 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,606,000 after buying an additional 5,317 shares during the period. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board increased its holdings in OGE Energy by 371.2% in the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 452,349 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $18,447,000 after buying an additional 356,349 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 67.78% of the companys stock.

OGE Energy Company Profile

(Get Rating)

OGE Energy Corp. is a holding company with investments in energy and energy service providers, offering physical delivery and related services for electricity in Oklahoma and western Arkansas and natural gas, crude oil and NGLs across the U.S. OGE Energy conducts these activities through two business segments: Electric Utility and Natural Gas Midstream Operations.

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Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE:SWK  Get Rating) updated its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided EPS guidance of 0-$2.00 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $0.94. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Stanley Black & Decker also updated its FY23 guidance to $0.00-2.00 EPS.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on shares of Stanley Black & Decker from $105.00 to $85.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Mizuho lifted their price target on shares of Stanley Black & Decker from $80.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, January 13th. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price target on shares of Stanley Black & Decker from $79.00 to $95.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Stanley Black & Decker from $100.00 to $95.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. Finally, Longbow Research downgraded shares of Stanley Black & Decker from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $95.33.

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Stanley Black & Decker Price Performance

Shares of SWK traded down $0.71 during mid-day trading on Friday, reaching $85.47. 1,874,345 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,480,907. The company has a quick ratio of 0.32, a current ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $80.45 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $81.22. Stanley Black & Decker has a 52-week low of $70.24 and a 52-week high of $127.31. The company has a market cap of $13.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.12, a PEG ratio of 12.52 and a beta of 1.30.

Stanley Black & Decker Announces Dividend

Stanley Black & Decker ( NYSE:SWK Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The industrial products company reported ($0.41) earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.73) by $0.32. The business had revenue of $3.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.01 billion. Stanley Black & Decker had a net margin of 4.22% and a return on equity of 3.45%. The companys revenue was down 11.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company posted $2.10 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Stanley Black & Decker will post 0.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 20th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 5th will be paid a $0.80 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, June 2nd. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.74%. Stanley Black & Deckers payout ratio is currently 71.59%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Stanley Black & Decker news, SVP Janet Link sold 2,581 shares of Stanley Black & Decker stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $85.73, for a total value of $221,269.13. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 36,352 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,116,456.96. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.50% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Stanley Black & Decker

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Panagora Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Stanley Black & Decker by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,838 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $397,000 after purchasing an additional 96 shares during the last quarter. Kinneret Advisory LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Stanley Black & Decker by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Kinneret Advisory LLC now owns 4,361 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $610,000 after purchasing an additional 98 shares during the last quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Stanley Black & Decker by 15.4% in the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 765 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $106,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the last quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its holdings in shares of Stanley Black & Decker by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 2,614 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $365,000 after purchasing an additional 112 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Stanley Black & Decker by 4.0% in the 1st quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 3,595 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $503,000 after purchasing an additional 138 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.01% of the companys stock.

Stanley Black & Decker Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc engages in the provision of power and hand tools, and related accessories, products, services and equipment for oil and gas, infrastructure applications, commercial electronic security and monitoring systems, healthcare solutions, and mechanical access solutions. It operates through the Tools and Storage segment, and Industrial segment.

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Simmons Bank boosted its holdings in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Get Rating) by 3.1% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 43,244 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 1,298 shares during the quarter. Simmons Banks holdings in Altria Group were worth $1,977,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P purchased a new position in Altria Group in the 1st quarter worth about $25,000. Bourgeon Capital Management LLC increased its stake in Altria Group by 85.6% in the 4th quarter. Bourgeon Capital Management LLC now owns 542 shares of the companys stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 250 shares in the last quarter. 1832 Asset Management L.P. purchased a new position in Altria Group during the 1st quarter valued at about $41,000. Winch Advisory Services LLC grew its stake in Altria Group by 118.8% during the 4th quarter. Winch Advisory Services LLC now owns 805 shares of the companys stock valued at $37,000 after acquiring an additional 437 shares in the last quarter. Finally, MV Capital Management Inc. grew its stake in Altria Group by 39.1% during the 4th quarter. MV Capital Management Inc. now owns 886 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,000 after acquiring an additional 249 shares in the last quarter. 58.68% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

MO has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Altria Group from $43.00 to $46.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, January 23rd. Citigroup lowered their target price on Altria Group from $49.50 to $47.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 17th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Altria Group in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus assumed coverage on Altria Group in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They set a buy rating and a $52.00 target price on the stock. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $45.50.

Altria Group Price Performance

MO traded up $0.05 on Monday, hitting $46.74. The company had a trading volume of 641,407 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,090,111. The companys fifty day moving average price is $45.83 and its 200 day moving average price is $45.85. Altria Group, Inc. has a 1-year low of $40.35 and a 1-year high of $57.03. The stock has a market cap of $83.43 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.01, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.31 and a beta of 0.59.

Altria Group (NYSE:MO  Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The company reported $1.18 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.19 by ($0.01). Altria Group had a negative return on equity of 245.43% and a net margin of 22.44%. The company had revenue of $4.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.89 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.12 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 1.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.06 EPS for the current year.

Altria Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 28th. Investors of record on Friday, March 24th were issued a $0.94 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 23rd. This represents a $3.76 annualized dividend and a yield of 8.04%. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 120.90%.

Altria Group Profile

(Get Rating)

Altria Group, Inc operates as a holding company, which engages in the manufacture and sale of cigarettes in the United States. It operates through the following segments: Smokeable Products, Oral tobacco products, and Wine. The Smokeable Products segment consists of cigarettes manufactured and sold by PM USA and machine-made large cigars and pipe tobacco manufactured and sold by Middleton.

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Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW  Get Rating) issued an update on its second quarter 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $4.25-$4.45 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.11. The company issued revenue guidance of $8.42 billion-$9.02 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $8.52 billion.

Arrow Electronics Price Performance

ARW stock traded up $0.47 during midday trading on Friday, hitting $119.64. 541,666 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 430,637. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $117.41 and its 200-day moving average price is $113.24. The stock has a market cap of $6.89 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.68, a PEG ratio of 1.89 and a beta of 1.40. Arrow Electronics has a fifty-two week low of $89.38 and a fifty-two week high of $134.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a current ratio of 1.62.

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Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The technology company reported $4.60 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.47 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $8.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.61 billion. Arrow Electronics had a return on equity of 24.92% and a net margin of 3.63%. Arrow Electronicss revenue was down 3.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $5.43 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Arrow Electronics will post 15.8 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Insider Activity

Several research firms have weighed in on ARW. Citigroup raised their price target on Arrow Electronics from $115.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Truist Financial raised their price target on Arrow Electronics from $116.00 to $131.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on Arrow Electronics from $87.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Raymond James raised their price target on Arrow Electronics from $125.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Finally, StockNews.com downgraded Arrow Electronics from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $125.33.

In other Arrow Electronics news, Chairman Michael J. Long sold 884 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $106,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 208,288 shares of the companys stock, valued at $24,994,560. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Arrow Electronics news, Chairman Michael J. Long sold 884 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $106,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 208,288 shares of the companys stock, valued at $24,994,560. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Carine Lamercie Jean-Claude sold 1,292 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $118.00, for a total value of $152,456.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 13,400 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,581,200. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 39,010 shares of company stock valued at $4,612,191 over the last quarter. Company insiders own 1.00% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of ARW. Panagora Asset Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Arrow Electronics by 12.3% during the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,478 shares of the technology companys stock worth $413,000 after purchasing an additional 380 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL acquired a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics in the first quarter worth about $273,000. Prudential PLC acquired a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics in the first quarter worth about $302,000. Cetera Investment Advisers acquired a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics in the first quarter worth about $275,000. Finally, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. acquired a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics in the first quarter worth about $52,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 95.49% of the companys stock.

About Arrow Electronics

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Arrow Electronics, Inc engages in the provision of products, services, and solutions to industrial and commercial users of electronic components and enterprise computing solutions. It operates under the Global Components Business and Global Enterprise Computing Solutions (Global ECS) segments. The Global Components segment focuses on marketing and distribution of electronic components enabled by a comprehensive range of value-added capabilities and services.

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Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW  Get Rating) issued an update on its second quarter 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $4.25-$4.45 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $4.11. The company issued revenue guidance of $8.42 billion-$9.02 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $8.52 billion.

Arrow Electronics Trading Up 0.4 %

Shares of NYSE ARW traded up $0.47 during trading on Friday, hitting $119.64. 541,666 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 430,637. Arrow Electronics has a 12-month low of $89.38 and a 12-month high of $134.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a current ratio of 1.62. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $117.41 and a 200-day moving average price of $113.24. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.89 billion, a PE ratio of 5.68, a P/E/G ratio of 1.89 and a beta of 1.40.

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Arrow Electronics (NYSE:ARW  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The technology company reported $4.60 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.47 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $8.74 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.61 billion. Arrow Electronics had a return on equity of 24.92% and a net margin of 3.63%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 3.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $5.43 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Arrow Electronics will post 15.8 EPS for the current year.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Insider Buying and Selling at Arrow Electronics

Several research firms have weighed in on ARW. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on Arrow Electronics from $87.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Citigroup lifted their target price on Arrow Electronics from $115.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on Arrow Electronics from $111.00 to $126.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th. StockNews.com downgraded Arrow Electronics from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday. Finally, Raymond James boosted their price objective on Arrow Electronics from $125.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $125.33.

In other news, Chairman Michael J. Long sold 884 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total transaction of $106,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 208,288 shares in the company, valued at $24,994,560. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, SVP Carine Lamercie Jean-Claude sold 1,292 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $118.00, for a total transaction of $152,456.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 13,400 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,581,200. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Michael J. Long sold 884 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $120.00, for a total value of $106,080.00. Following the transaction, the chairman now directly owns 208,288 shares in the company, valued at approximately $24,994,560. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 39,010 shares of company stock worth $4,612,191. 1.00% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Arrow Electronics

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Cetera Investment Advisers grew its stake in Arrow Electronics by 20.0% in the 4th quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 2,679 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $280,000 after acquiring an additional 447 shares during the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL purchased a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics during the 1st quarter worth approximately $273,000. TIAA FSB acquired a new position in shares of Arrow Electronics during the 4th quarter worth approximately $252,000. Verition Fund Management LLC purchased a new stake in Arrow Electronics in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $250,000. Finally, LPL Financial LLC grew its holdings in Arrow Electronics by 5.3% during the 4th quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 2,342 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $245,000 after buying an additional 118 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.49% of the companys stock.

Arrow Electronics Company Profile

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Arrow Electronics, Inc engages in the provision of products, services, and solutions to industrial and commercial users of electronic components and enterprise computing solutions. It operates under the Global Components Business and Global Enterprise Computing Solutions (Global ECS) segments. The Global Components segment focuses on marketing and distribution of electronic components enabled by a comprehensive range of value-added capabilities and services.

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B&G Foods (NYSE:BGS  Get Rating) updated its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided earnings per share guidance of $0.95-1.15 for the period, compared to the consensus earnings per share estimate of $1.02. The company issued revenue guidance of $2.13-2.17 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $2.15 billion. B&G Foods also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $0.95-$1.15 EPS.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have commented on the company. TheStreet raised B&G Foods from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on B&G Foods in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a sell rating for the company. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and four have issued a hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, B&G Foods currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $15.70.

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B&G Foods Stock Down 2.5 %

Shares of NYSE:BGS traded down $0.40 during trading on Friday, hitting $15.49. The stock had a trading volume of 1,084,747 shares, compared to its average volume of 736,474. B&G Foods has a 12 month low of $10.91 and a 12 month high of $26.33. The company has a market capitalization of $1.11 billion, a PE ratio of -35.20 and a beta of 0.45. The firms fifty day moving average is $15.32 and its 200 day moving average is $14.04. The company has a quick ratio of 1.08, a current ratio of 3.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.70.

B&G Foods Dividend Announcement

B&G Foods ( NYSE:BGS Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported $0.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.26 by $0.01. B&G Foods had a positive return on equity of 8.54% and a negative net margin of 1.48%. The firm had revenue of $511.81 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $528.18 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.34 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 3.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts anticipate that B&G Foods will post 1.02 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 31st were given a $0.19 dividend. This represents a $0.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.91%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 30th. B&G Foodss dividend payout ratio is currently -172.73%.

Insider Activity at B&G Foods

In related news, CFO Bruce C. Wacha sold 12,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $14.81, for a total transaction of $185,125.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 46,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $688,531.71. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. 2.80% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in BGS. FMR LLC boosted its stake in B&G Foods by 14.8% during the 2nd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 14,319 shares of the companys stock valued at $341,000 after purchasing an additional 1,849 shares during the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky purchased a new stake in B&G Foods during the 3rd quarter valued at $337,000. Bridgefront Capital LLC purchased a new stake in B&G Foods during the 1st quarter valued at $324,000. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company boosted its stake in B&G Foods by 5.3% during the 4th quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 28,124 shares of the companys stock valued at $314,000 after purchasing an additional 1,415 shares during the last quarter. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. boosted its stake in shares of B&G Foods by 10.5% in the 4th quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 27,943 shares of the companys stock worth $312,000 after buying an additional 2,666 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 63.71% of the companys stock.

About B&G Foods

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B&G Foods, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the manufacture, sale, and distribution of shelf-stable frozen food, and household products in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Its products include frozen and canned vegetables, hot cereals, fruit spreads, canned meats and beans, bagel chips, spices, seasonings, hot sauces, and wine vinegar.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has announced holding of early presidential election in the country, Trend reports.

He announced the signing of the relevant decree at a meeting with the heads of the chambers of the Oliy Majlis (Parliament), parties, judicial and executive authorities, dedicated to the results of the referendum on amendments to the Constitution of Uzbekistan held on April 30.

Naturally, the question arises, what is the objective need for such a decision. Why am I myself giving up the remaining three and a half years of my presidential term? According to our Constitution, firstly, all branches of government are being reformed, relations and balance between them are seriously changing," the head of state explained.

Secondly, the amended Constitution sets urgent new political, social and economic tasks for the president, parliament, government, ministers, and hokims [mayors and governors of Uzbek cities and regions], he noted.

"Thirdly, our people expect extremely important and urgent changes and reforms in all areas," Mirziyoyev said.

On May 6, amendments were made to the Electoral Code regarding early elections of the President, deputies of the Legislative Chamber and members of the Senate.

When the president calls early elections for the head of state, they must be held within two months. If the president dissolves the Legislative Chamber, then the elections of deputies are held within three months, if the lower house of parliament decides to dissolve itself, then within two months.

Upon the dissolution of the Senate by the President, the elections of members of the Senate are held within three months, and upon self-dissolution - within one month.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been the President of Uzbekistan and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan since 2016. Following the death of President Islam Karimov, he was appointed by the Supreme Assembly as interim president of Uzbekistan on 8 September 2016. In October 2021, Mirziyoyev was re-elected President of Uzbekistan.
Bio-Rad Laboratories (NYSE:BIO.B  Get Rating) announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday. The company reported $3.34 earnings per share for the quarter, reports. The firm had revenue of $676.84 million for the quarter. Bio-Rad Laboratories had a positive return on equity of 4.19% and a negative net margin of 7.01%.

Bio-Rad Laboratories Price Performance

NYSE BIO.B remained flat at $467.95 during trading on Friday. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1 shares, compared to its average volume of 17. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $446.42 and its 200 day simple moving average is $415.15. The firm has a market capitalization of $13.85 billion, a PE ratio of -71.55 and a beta of 0.69. The company has a quick ratio of 4.29, a current ratio of 5.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12. Bio-Rad Laboratories has a 1 year low of $464.10 and a 1 year high of $467.95.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, TheStreet raised Bio-Rad Laboratories from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a research report on Monday, March 27th.

About Bio-Rad Laboratories

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc manufactures, and distributes life science research and clinical diagnostic products in the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada, and Latin America. The company operates through Life Science and Clinical Diagnostics segments. The Life Science segment develops, manufactures, and markets a range of reagents, apparatus, and laboratory instruments that are used in research techniques, biopharmaceutical production processes, and food testing regimes.

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Okabena Investment Services Inc. decreased its position in BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE:BLK  Get Rating) by 58.2% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 615 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 858 shares during the period. Okabena Investment Services Inc.s holdings in BlackRock were worth $436,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in BLK. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. lifted its position in shares of BlackRock by 275.0% in the 3rd quarter. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. now owns 45 shares of the asset managers stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 33 shares during the last quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of BlackRock by 78.6% during the 3rd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 50 shares of the asset managers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 22 shares during the period. Horan Securities Inc. raised its position in shares of BlackRock by 72.7% during the 4th quarter. Horan Securities Inc. now owns 38 shares of the asset managers stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares during the period. Align Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of BlackRock in the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Finally, Y.D. More Investments Ltd acquired a new position in BlackRock during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $28,000. 77.69% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other BlackRock news, CEO Laurence Fink sold 35,799 shares of BlackRock stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $694.50, for a total value of $24,862,405.50. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 484,325 shares in the company, valued at $336,363,712.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other BlackRock news, CEO Laurence Fink sold 35,799 shares of BlackRock stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, April 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $694.50, for a total transaction of $24,862,405.50. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 484,325 shares in the company, valued at approximately $336,363,712.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director J. Richard Kushel sold 1,000 shares of BlackRock stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $742.31, for a total transaction of $742,310.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 74,307 shares in the company, valued at $55,158,829.17. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 41,024 shares of company stock worth $28,562,554. 0.96% of the stock is owned by insiders.

BlackRock Price Performance

Shares of NYSE BLK traded down $0.75 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $643.73. 58,886 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 673,166. BlackRock, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $503.12 and a fifty-two week high of $785.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 2.99 and a quick ratio of 2.99. The firm has a market cap of $96.71 billion, a PE ratio of 19.99, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 1.27. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $662.56 and a 200-day simple moving average of $695.13.

BlackRock (NYSE:BLK  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 14th. The asset manager reported $7.93 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $7.71 by $0.22. BlackRock had a net margin of 28.13% and a return on equity of 13.69%. The business had revenue of $4.24 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.24 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $9.52 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 9.7% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that BlackRock, Inc. will post 34.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price target on shares of BlackRock from $583.00 to $542.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a report on Monday, April 17th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on shares of BlackRock from $763.00 to $770.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, April 17th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on BlackRock from $829.00 to $861.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on BlackRock from $840.00 to $780.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Bank of America lifted their price target on BlackRock from $868.00 to $920.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, April 17th. Five 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 a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $756.45.

BlackRock Company Profile

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BlackRock, Inc engages in providing investment management, risk management, and advisory services for institutional and retail clients worldwide. Its products include single and multi-asset class portfolios investing in equities, fixed income, alternatives, and money market instruments. The company was founded by Susan L.

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Shares of Braskem S.A. (NYSE:BAK  Get Rating) gapped up before the market opened on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $9.17, but opened at $11.32. Braskem shares last traded at $10.55, with a volume of 2,753,478 shares traded.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts recently weighed in on BAK shares. UBS Group raised shares of Braskem from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, April 14th. Scotiabank raised shares of Braskem from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $16.75 price target on the stock in a research report on Monday. Finally, Citigroup raised shares of Braskem from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Braskem currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $16.75.

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Braskem Trading Up 9.9 %

The company has a market capitalization of $4.55 billion, a P/E ratio of -54.15 and a beta of 1.70. The stocks 50 day moving average is $7.63 and its 200-day moving average is $9.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.75, a current ratio of 1.42 and a quick ratio of 0.84.

Institutional Trading of Braskem

Braskem ( NYSE:BAK Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, March 23rd. The company reported ($0.82) earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($1.09) by $0.27. Braskem had a negative net margin of 0.42% and a negative return on equity of 26.31%. The business had revenue of $3.61 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.55 billion. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Braskem S.A. will post -0.51 earnings per share for the current year.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. grew its stake 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 in the last quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC boosted its position in 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 buying an additional 1,986 shares during the period. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise boosted its position in Braskem by 100.0% in the 1st quarter. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise now owns 6,400 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after buying an additional 3,200 shares during the period. UBS Group AG boosted its position in Braskem by 1,640.2% in the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 9,693 shares of the companys stock valued at $94,000 after buying an additional 9,136 shares during the period. Finally, Raymond James & Associates purchased a new stake in Braskem in the 4th quarter valued at about $119,000. 0.01% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Braskem Company Profile

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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 Analysts LLC grew its holdings in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Get Rating) by 3.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 62,466 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after purchasing an additional 2,255 shares during the quarter. Capital Analysts LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $6,858,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. JDM Financial Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 4th quarter worth $26,000. WFA of San Diego LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter worth approximately $34,000. Arcus Capital Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter worth approximately $35,000. CarsonAllaria Wealth Management Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 283.3% during the 4th quarter. CarsonAllaria Wealth Management Ltd. now owns 391 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $43,000 after acquiring an additional 289 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Glassy Mountain Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories during the 4th quarter worth approximately $44,000. Institutional investors own 72.93% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.02, for a total value of $5,551,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 6,825,316 shares in the company, valued at approximately $757,746,582.32. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, Director Daniel J. Starks sold 50,000 shares of Abbott Laboratories stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, May 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.02, for a total value of $5,551,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 6,825,316 shares in the company, valued at approximately $757,746,582.32. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Julie L. Tyler sold 260 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $103.24, for a total transaction of $26,842.40. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 40,896 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,222,103.04. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 60,197 shares of company stock valued at $6,659,607 in the last three months. 1.10% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Abbott Laboratories Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE ABT traded down $0.18 during trading on Monday, reaching $111.08. 376,096 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 5,227,492. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $103.27 and its 200 day simple moving average is $105.46. The stock has a market cap of $193.05 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.82, a PEG ratio of 4.98 and a beta of 0.67. Abbott Laboratories has a 12-month low of $93.25 and a 12-month high of $118.23. The company has a current ratio of 1.63, a quick ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39.

Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, April 19th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.03 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.98 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $9.75 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $9.64 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 13.98% and a return on equity of 22.48%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 18.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.73 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Abbott Laboratories will post 4.38 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Abbott Laboratories Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.51 per share. This represents a $2.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.84%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 13th. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 62.01%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

ABT has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. UBS Group upped their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $117.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. Citigroup upped their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Raymond James raised their price target on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $116.00 to $123.00 in a report on Thursday, April 20th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $118.00 to $122.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $140.00 to $136.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $122.37.

About Abbott Laboratories

(Get Rating)

Abbott Laboratories engages in the discovery, development, manufacture, and sale of a broad and diversified line of health care products. It operates through the following business segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The Established Pharmaceutical Products segment refers to the international sales of a line of branded generic pharmaceutical products.

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Globe Life (NYSE:GL  Get Rating) had its price target lowered by Piper Sandler from $135.00 to $130.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday, The Fly reports.

Several other brokerages have also commented on GL. StockNews.com lowered shares of Globe Life from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, March 15th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of Globe Life from $112.00 to $126.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, January 6th. Wells Fargo & Company began coverage on shares of Globe Life in a research note on Tuesday, April 25th. They set an equal weight rating and a $120.00 target price for the company. Raymond James decreased their target price on shares of Globe Life from $141.00 to $138.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, March 14th. Finally, Truist Financial raised their target price on shares of Globe Life from $112.00 to $125.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $127.50.

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Globe Life Stock Performance

Shares of GL opened at $108.29 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.05 and a quick ratio of 0.05. Globe Life has a one year low of $87.87 and a one year high of $123.85. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $110.26 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $115.31. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.45 billion, a PE ratio of 13.35 and a beta of 0.79.

Globe Life Increases Dividend

Globe Life ( NYSE:GL Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $2.53 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.47 by $0.06. Globe Life had a net margin of 15.28% and a return on equity of 18.20%. The business had revenue of $1.32 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.36 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.70 earnings per share. Globe Lifes quarterly revenue was up 1.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts anticipate that Globe Life will post 10.34 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 1st. Investors of record on Monday, April 3rd were given a dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, March 31st. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.83%. This is an increase from Globe Lifes previous quarterly dividend of $0.21. Globe Lifes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 11.10%.

Insider Activity at Globe Life

In related news, CEO Frank M. Svoboda sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $121.36, for a total transaction of $1,213,600.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 3,370 shares of the companys stock, valued at $408,983.20. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, Director Melissa Jane Buchan sold 1,900 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $105.95, for a total value of $201,305.00. Following the sale, the director now owns 81,658 shares in the company, valued at $8,651,665.10. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CEO Frank M. Svoboda sold 10,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $121.36, for a total transaction of $1,213,600.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 3,370 shares in the company, valued at approximately $408,983.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 96,125 shares of company stock valued at $11,603,160 over the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 4.33% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Globe Life

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Globe Life by 0.3% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 10,638,209 shares of the companys stock worth $1,060,631,000 after purchasing an additional 31,957 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its stake in shares of Globe Life by 37.0% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 7,308,014 shares of the companys stock worth $735,187,000 after acquiring an additional 1,973,186 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Globe Life by 0.9% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 6,520,494 shares of the companys stock worth $655,963,000 after acquiring an additional 57,587 shares during the last quarter. Boston Partners boosted its stake in shares of Globe Life by 2.2% during the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 2,546,278 shares of the companys stock worth $254,128,000 after acquiring an additional 54,819 shares during the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its stake in shares of Globe Life by 112.5% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,265,399 shares of the companys stock worth $273,093,000 after acquiring an additional 1,199,227 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 81.04% of the companys stock.

About Globe Life

(Get Rating)

Globe Life, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of individual life and supplemental health insurance products and services. It operates through the following segments: Life Insurance, Supplemental Health Insurance, Annuities, and Investments. The Life Insurance segment includes traditional and interest-sensitive whole life insurance as well as term life insurances.

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International Game Technology (NYSE:IGT  Get Rating) is scheduled to be posting its quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Tuesday, May 9th. Analysts expect International Game Technology to post earnings of $0.40 per share for the quarter. International Game Technology has set its FY 2023 guidance at EPS and its Q1 2023 guidance at EPS.Individual that are interested in registering for the companys earnings conference call can do so using this link.

International Game Technology (NYSE:IGT  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 28th. The company reported $0.40 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.33 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $1.09 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.03 billion. International Game Technology had a return on equity of 27.89% and a net margin of 6.51%. International Game Technologys quarterly revenue was up 4.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.09 EPS. On average, analysts expect International Game Technology to post $2 EPS for the current fiscal year and $2 EPS for the next fiscal year.

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International Game Technology Trading Up 6.5 %

Shares of IGT stock opened at $27.49 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.36 and a beta of 1.86. International Game Technology has a twelve month low of $15.01 and a twelve month high of $28.98. The company has a quick ratio of 1.02, a current ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.88. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $26.40 and its 200 day simple moving average is $24.83.

International Game Technology Dividend Announcement

Institutional Trading of International Game Technology

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 28th. Investors of record on Tuesday, March 14th were given a dividend of $0.20 per share. The ex-dividend date was Monday, March 13th. This represents a $0.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.91%. International Game Technologys dividend payout ratio is currently 59.26%.

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in IGT. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust grew its holdings in shares of International Game Technology by 84.9% in the first quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 1,163 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 534 shares in the last quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. purchased a new position in International Game Technology in the first quarter valued at approximately $49,000. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can lifted its stake in International Game Technology by 35.1% in the first quarter. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can now owns 4,031 shares of the companys stock valued at $106,000 after purchasing an additional 1,048 shares during the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors lifted its stake in International Game Technology by 9.8% in the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 6,582 shares of the companys stock valued at $122,000 after purchasing an additional 586 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new position in International Game Technology in the first quarter valued at approximately $181,000. 44.33% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have commented on IGT. B. Riley began coverage on International Game Technology in a report on Thursday, April 20th. They set a buy rating and a $43.00 target price on the stock. Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on International Game Technology from $62.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, March 1st. StockNews.com began coverage on International Game Technology in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a strong-buy rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on International Game Technology from $27.00 to $31.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price objective on International Game Technology from $29.00 to $33.00 in a research note on Wednesday, March 1st. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, International Game Technology currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of $38.17.

About International Game Technology

(Get Rating)

International Game Technology PLC engages in the designing, manufacturing, and marketing of electronic gaming equipment, software, and network systems. It operates through the Global Lottery, Global Gaming, and Digital & Betting segments. The Global Lottery segment has responsibility for the worldwide traditional lottery and iLottery business, including sales, operations, product development, technology, and support.

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Shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF (NYSEARCA:EWG  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $29.56 and last traded at $29.56, with a volume of 755 shares. The stock had previously closed at $29.50.

iShares MSCI Germany ETF Trading Up 0.2 %

The companys 50-day moving average is $28.22 and its two-hundred day moving average is $26.53. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.82 and a beta of 1.07.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On iShares MSCI Germany ETF

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Truist Financial Corp boosted its stake in iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 14.8% during the 1st quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 31,270 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $890,000 after purchasing an additional 4,042 shares in the last quarter. Pictet North America Advisors SA boosted its stake in iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 6.7% during the first quarter. Pictet North America Advisors SA now owns 53,663 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,527,000 after buying an additional 3,359 shares in the last quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC grew its holdings in iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 13.7% during the first quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC now owns 1,411,669 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $40,176,000 after acquiring an additional 170,287 shares during the period. Alliance Wealth Advisors LLC UT acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI Germany ETF in the 1st quarter valued at about $1,001,000. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI Germany ETF by 478.3% during the 1st quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 13,300 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $379,000 after purchasing an additional 11,000 shares in the last quarter.

About iShares MSCI Germany ETF

iShares MSCI Germany ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Germany Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the German market, as measured by the MSCI Germany Index (the Index).

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iShares North American Natural Resources ETF (BATS:IGE  Get Rating) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $39.06 and last traded at $38.52, with a volume of 59726 shares. The stock had previously closed at $38.51.

iShares North American Natural Resources ETF Price Performance

The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $39.27 and a 200 day moving average price of $40.62. The firm has a market cap of $789.66 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.98 and a beta of 1.25.

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Institutional Trading of iShares North American Natural Resources ETF

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Advisors Preferred LLC acquired a new position in iShares North American Natural Resources ETF in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. Bellwether Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in iShares North American Natural Resources ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Private Trust Co. NA boosted its holdings in iShares North American Natural Resources ETF by 9,559.3% in the 4th quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 2,608 shares of the companys stock valued at $106,000 after purchasing an additional 2,581 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its holdings in iShares North American Natural Resources ETF by 1,801.7% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 3,328 shares of the companys stock valued at $134,000 after purchasing an additional 3,153 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bard Financial Services Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares North American Natural Resources ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $214,000.

iShares North American Natural Resources ETF Company Profile

iShares North American Natural Resources ETF, formerly iShares S&P North American Natural Resources Sector Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of U.S.-traded natural resource-related stocks as represented by the S&P North American Natural Resources Sector Index (the Index).

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Shares of Motorola Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) have been given a consensus rating of Hold by the nine research firms that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and two have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $301.67.

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on MSI shares. Edward Jones downgraded Motorola Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, January 23rd. Barclays raised their target price on Motorola Solutions from $303.00 to $329.00 in a report on Friday. TheStreet raised Motorola Solutions from a c+ rating to a b rating in a report on Thursday, February 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Motorola Solutions from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their target price for the company from $300.00 to $305.00 in a report on Thursday, March 16th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on Motorola Solutions from $310.00 to $335.00 in a report on Friday.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Director Kenneth D. Denman sold 1,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $266.33, for a total transaction of $399,495.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 8,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,214,001.29. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 26,933 shares of Motorola Solutions stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.25, for a total value of $7,305,576.25. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 48,142 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,058,517.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Kenneth D. Denman sold 1,500 shares of Motorola Solutions stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $266.33, for a total value of $399,495.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 8,313 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,214,001.29. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 37,167 shares of company stock valued at $10,066,483 in the last three months. Insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Motorola Solutions Trading Down 3.0 %

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Assetmark Inc. raised its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 19.5% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 12,156 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $3,478,000 after acquiring an additional 1,986 shares in the last quarter. Renasant Bank increased its position in Motorola Solutions by 7.3% in the 1st quarter. Renasant Bank now owns 902 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $258,000 after buying an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. Phoenix Wealth Advisors increased its position in Motorola Solutions by 177.6% in the 1st quarter. Phoenix Wealth Advisors now owns 10,311 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $2,950,000 after buying an additional 6,596 shares in the last quarter. Capital Analysts LLC increased its position in Motorola Solutions by 1.4% in the 1st quarter. Capital Analysts LLC now owns 31,884 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $9,123,000 after buying an additional 443 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. increased its position in Motorola Solutions by 1,071.4% in the 1st quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 574 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $164,000 after buying an additional 525 shares in the last quarter. 83.67% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Shares of MSI stock opened at $281.56 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 0.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 45.90. The stock has a market cap of $47.09 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.20, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.20 and a beta of 0.93. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $278.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $265.40. Motorola Solutions has a 1 year low of $195.18 and a 1 year high of $295.10.

Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The communications equipment provider reported $2.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.05 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $2.17 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.12 billion. Motorola Solutions had a negative return on equity of 744.78% and a net margin of 14.63%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.53 earnings per share. On average, research analysts predict that Motorola Solutions will post 10.08 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Motorola Solutions Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 15th were issued a dividend of $0.88 per share. This represents a $3.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.25%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 44.00%.

Motorola Solutions Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Motorola Solutions, Inc engages in the provision of communication infrastructure, devices, accessories, software, and services. It operates through the following segments: Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices, and the implementation and integration of such systems, devices, and applications.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL  Get Rating) updated its second quarter 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided EPS guidance of $1.50-$1.60 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $0.94. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Royal Caribbean Cruises also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $4.40-$4.80 EPS.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have recently commented on RCL. Bank of America raised shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from an underperform rating to a neutral rating and increased their price target for the stock from $40.00 to $78.00 in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $50.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, February 10th. Truist Financial raised their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $62.00 to $72.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. Barclays raised their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $88.00 to $100.00 in a research note on Friday. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $82.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Royal Caribbean Cruises presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $82.77.

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Royal Caribbean Cruises Stock Performance

RCL traded up $3.73 during trading on Friday, hitting $75.61. The stock had a trading volume of 5,900,097 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,300,698. The firm has a market cap of $19.33 billion, a PE ratio of -18.58 and a beta of 2.43. Royal Caribbean Cruises has a 12 month low of $31.09 and a 12 month high of $76.30. The company has a current ratio of 0.26, a quick ratio of 0.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.41. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $65.14 and a 200-day simple moving average of $61.30.

Institutional Trading of Royal Caribbean Cruises

Royal Caribbean Cruises ( NYSE:RCL Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The company reported ($0.23) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.71) by $0.48. Royal Caribbean Cruises had a negative net margin of 9.72% and a negative return on equity of 25.86%. The company had revenue of $2.89 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.82 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted ($4.57) EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 172.4% on a year-over-year basis. Analysts expect that Royal Caribbean Cruises will post 4.8 EPS for the current year.

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in RCL. Harbour Investments Inc. lifted its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 38.5% during the 4th quarter. Harbour Investments Inc. now owns 928 shares of the companys stock valued at $46,000 after purchasing an additional 258 shares during the last quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. lifted its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 63.1% during the 1st quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 742 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,000 after purchasing an additional 287 shares during the last quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp lifted its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 527.8% during the 4th quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp now owns 1,651 shares of the companys stock valued at $82,000 after purchasing an additional 1,388 shares during the last quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 17.4% during the 1st quarter. Ancora Advisors LLC now owns 1,350 shares of the companys stock valued at $116,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bessemer Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Royal Caribbean Cruises by 23.4% during the 4th quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 2,471 shares of the companys stock valued at $122,000 after purchasing an additional 468 shares during the last quarter. 74.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Royal Caribbean Cruises

(Get Rating)

Royal Caribbean Group is a cruise company, which engages in the ownership and operation of the following global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. The firm also holds interest in TUI Cruises GmbH, which operates the German brands TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. The early presidential election has been scheduled for July 9, 2023, by decree of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Trend reports.

Earlier, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the holding of the early presidential election in Uzbekistan.

He also explained the necessity for such a decision.

According to our Constitution, firstly, all branches of government are being reformed, relations and balance between them are seriously changing, the head of state said.

Besides, according to him, the amended Constitution sets urgent new political, social and economic tasks for the president, parliament, government, ministers, and hokims [mayors and governors of Uzbek cities and regions].

"Our people expect extremely important and urgent changes and reforms in all areas," Mirziyoyev noted.

"In the current situation, when acute and complex processes are taking place in the world and in the region, the most urgent and important issue is the search and implementation of the correct and effective development path," the president added.

On May 6, amendments were made to the Electoral Code regarding early elections of the President, deputies of the Legislative Chamber, and members of the Senate.

When the president calls early elections for the head of state, they must be held within two months. If the president dissolves the Legislative Chamber, then the elections of deputies are held within three months, if the lower house of parliament decides to dissolve itself, then within two months.

Upon the dissolution of the Senate by the President, the elections of members of the Senate are held within three months, and upon self-dissolution - within one month.

Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been the President of Uzbekistan and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Uzbekistan since 2016. Following the death of President Islam Karimov, he was appointed by the Supreme Assembly as interim president of Uzbekistan on 8 September 2016. In October 2021, Mirziyoyev was re-elected President of Uzbekistan.
StockNews.com started coverage on shares of American Shared Hospital Services (NYSE:AMS  Get Rating) in a research report released on Thursday. The firm issued a hold rating on the stock.

American Shared Hospital Services Stock Performance

Shares of American Shared Hospital Services stock opened at $2.80 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $17.39 million, a P/E ratio of 13.33 and a beta of 0.77. American Shared Hospital Services has a twelve month low of $2.20 and a twelve month high of $3.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 3.62 and a current ratio of 3.62.

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About American Shared Hospital Services

(Get Rating)

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American Shared Hospital Services engages in leasing radiosurgery and radiation therapy equipment to healthcare providers. Its equipment includes Gamma Knife, PBRT, and IGRT. The Gamma Knife radiosurgery equipment is a non-invasive treatment for malignant and benign brain tumors, vascular malformations and trigeminal neuralgia.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Rollins (NYSE:ROL  Get Rating) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note published on Thursday.

Several other brokerages have also recently issued reports on ROL. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on shares of Rollins from $37.00 to $40.00 in a research note on Friday, April 28th. Redburn Partners initiated coverage on shares of Rollins in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. They issued a buy rating and a $62.00 price objective on the stock. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Rollins has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $43.40.

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Rollins Trading Down 0.2 %

Shares of ROL opened at $41.77 on Thursday. Rollins has a 12-month low of $31.43 and a 12-month high of $43.06. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.58 billion, a P/E ratio of 54.25 and a beta of 0.66. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $37.82 and a 200 day moving average price of $37.98. The company has a current ratio of 0.79, a quick ratio of 0.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05.

Rollins Announces Dividend

Rollins ( NYSE:ROL Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 26th. The business services provider reported $0.18 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.17 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $658.02 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $643.78 million. Rollins had a net margin of 13.77% and a return on equity of 31.07%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 11.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.15 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that Rollins will post 0.84 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 10th will be paid a dividend of $0.13 per share. This represents a $0.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.24%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, May 9th. Rollinss dividend payout ratio is currently 67.53%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Rollins news, Vice Chairman John F. Wilson sold 40,499 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $42.45, for a total value of $1,719,182.55. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 743,992 shares of the companys stock, valued at $31,582,460.40. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 4.70% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Rollins

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. CWM LLC lifted its stake in Rollins by 10.3% during the third quarter. CWM LLC now owns 2,735 shares of the business services providers stock worth $95,000 after purchasing an additional 255 shares during the last quarter. abrdn plc grew its holdings in Rollins by 0.3% during the first quarter. abrdn plc now owns 89,625 shares of the business services providers stock worth $3,364,000 after acquiring an additional 256 shares during the period. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans boosted its position in shares of Rollins by 2.7% in the 3rd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 9,871 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $342,000 after purchasing an additional 258 shares during the period. Westpac Banking Corp boosted its position in shares of Rollins by 2.0% in the 4th quarter. Westpac Banking Corp now owns 15,402 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $563,000 after purchasing an additional 298 shares during the period. Finally, ETF Managers Group LLC boosted its position in Rollins by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. ETF Managers Group LLC now owns 20,720 shares of the business services providers stock worth $778,000 after acquiring an additional 309 shares during the period. 38.98% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Rollins

(Get Rating)

Rollins, Inc engages in the provision of pest and termite control services through its wholly-owned subsidiaries to both residential and commercial customers in the United States, Canada, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, Africa, Mexico, and Australia.

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Presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, Mr. Peter Obi, on Sunday, paid a courtesy visit to the Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, at his country home in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Obi made the visit known in a series of tweets on his page on Sunday, noting that the visit was to clear any misconception about the relationship that exists between his supporters and the literary scholar.

He said: Today, I visited one of Nigerias most revered figures and an international literary icon, Prof. Soyinka. Prof Soyinka has been my father whom I hold in very high esteem for what he has achieved and stands for in the struggle for a better Nigeria.

His reputation as a fighter for justice and equity in our society has been legendary and we will never ignore them.

I had a very useful and enriching discussion about his aspirations for a better and greater Nigeria, and he shared a lot with me about his dream for a greater, and more inclusive Nigeria.

I reminded the Nobel laureate of the huge price he paid just before the out break of civil war, fighting for the cause of the Igbos.

I cherish this Sunday visit which was intended to erase the needless misconceptions about the relationship between the great icon and the obidient family.
Prospective senators for the 10th National Assembly from the South East geopolitical zone has reiterated their demand for Senate President

The senators-elect called on the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, to zone the seat to their region in the spirit of justice, fairness, and unity.

This was coming after reports emerged that the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu have endorsed Senator Godswill Akpabio from Akwa Ibom State (south-south) as the next Senate President.

Reacting in a communique after their meeting on Sunday, the Southeast senators rejected the perceived zoning of the position to any other geopolitical zone aside from their region.

They warned Tinubu against neglecting a major ethnic group like the Igbo as this would be a recipe for restiveness and an open display of marginalisation.

The lawmakers said consultation has began with other geopolitical zones to support their aspirations and demand.

The communique read: We have observed with dismay the antics of persons with vested selfish interests who have planted themselves around the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and have vowed to shut out the South East from the Senate Presidency of the 10th Senate.

Beyond ethnic and religious considerations, in the forthcoming 10th Senate, the Southeast has been blessed with ranking Senators-elect, including members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) who have the capacity, competence, influence, experience and Political followership to pilot the affairs of the Red Chamber, it becomes imperative that the All Progressives Congress upholds the Principle of natural Justice and equity which it preaches founded on reasons and zone the seat of Senate President to the South East region.

The president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, should extend the same democratic opportunity he received from the outgoing administration, which gave all aspirants equal opportunity to exercise their fundamental and constitutional rights during the APC Presidential Primaries.

He should be conscious of the grave implications of zoning and endorsing a candidate from South South without any regard for the Southeast, such move will no doubt serve as a recipe for Injustice which will culminate to restiveness.

We implore the President-elect to be sensitive to the times in Nigeria and ensure the country continues to thrive on the part of equity, unity, and fairness to the tripod of Nigeria (Hausa Igbo Yoruba) and the geopolitical zones

The country is already divided amongst ethnic and religious lines due to the exclusion of the Southeast region, which formed the major reason the APC received the amount of votes from the Southeast. The incoming administration of Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu must correct this anomaly by ensuring that the Southeast is given the opportunity to produce the next Senate President.

With the side-lining of the Southeast from producing the Presidential candidates of the major political parties before the general election, the only means through which the zone can be compensated and given a sense of belonging is for the zone to produce the next Senate President as this will restore confidence of the people from the South-east geo-political zone and indeed all Nigerians in the unity of the country

The APC must rise above primordial and political interest and shun the winner takes all syndrome and pursue ethno-religious inclusivity and a strong, virile, united, progressive, prosperous, equitable and just democratic nation

Mr. President-elect, how would an average Igbo man feel after he sees evidence of total discrimination? The South East has been denied the chance of producing the president of Nigeria since 1966.

The South South has produced President for six years and also had Deputy Senate President in the outgoing administration. The only zone in the South that has not been favoured is the South East. The outcry of marginalisation by the South East and the entire Igbo should be addressed by your incoming administration rather than aggravating it.

The South West has President, the North East has Vice President, it is only just that the least position at the moment that can assuage the South East is given the chance to be the President of the 10th Senate.

On this note we have collectively resolved to support South East aspirants of the APC. We remain committed and have since expanded negotiations with other well-meaning Senators-elect to rally round the South East to ensure that justice, fairness and unity of the country prevails.

We remain hopeful that together we shall achieve a harmonious 10th Senate, deepen democracy, fairness and the unity of our dear country.

Those in attendance for the meeting include Orji Uzor Kalu, Ifeanyi Ubah, Victor Umeh, Osita Izunaso, Ezenwa Onyewuchi, Tony Nwoye, PC Ndubueze, Okey Ezea, Kelvin Chukwu and Osita Ngwu.
The leading pastor of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has asked Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of Labour Party, to withdraw his petition from the Election Tribunal over the outcome of the 2023 presidential election.

He said Obis decision to go to court to challenge Bola Tinubus declaration as winner of the election by INEC is a waste of money, time, and energy.

Primate Ayodele said Peter Obi didnt win the election and even if he goes around the world, no court could declare him the winner.

The clergyman who stated that nobody would be able to stop the inauguration even though the Muslim-Muslim combination doesnt correlate with Gods plan for Nigeria, and will lead to hard times for the country, said only God can stop the swearing-in ceremony of the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on May 29.

In a statement by his media aide, Oluwatosin Osho, Primate Ayodele said he warned Obi before the election and told him some things he needed to do if he wanted to win the presidential election, but he didnt do any, which was responsible for his loss at the polls.

Nobody can stop Tinubu from being inaugurated as the President of Nigeria on May 29, only God can stop him. I am not in support of the Muslim-Muslim ticket, God has never approved the combination for Nigeria.

There are consequences the country will face as a result of that. Nigeria will face hard times with Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Peter Obi didnt win the election, he cant be president. Going to court for Obi is now a waste of money, time, and energy. He didnt win the election and even if he goes around the world, he still will not be declared winner.

I remember saying Obi is only making noise, and I said if Igbo loses 2023, they will not smell presidency in the next 30 years; this is what has happened now. I warned Obi that he isnt ready for the election, I told him some of the things that will give him victory but he didnt do anything. Why is he crying now?
During a briefing at the State Security Service, Bacha Mgeladze, the Acting Director of the Counter-Terrorist Center, stated that there is no terrorist infrastructure of any kind in Georgia, and denied the information circulating in foreign media about the existence of military training and bases for terrorist purposes on Georgian territories.Mgeladze further revealed that an ongoing investigation has yielded alarming information, which they promptly shared with their partners and even provided to the Turkish authorities. He added that the Turkish anti-terrorist service conducted a large-scale operation at two locations on May 5 based on the information they provided."There are no training camps and there is no training of terrorists and fighters. I will tell you more, an investigation has been going on in the State Security Service for a long time. Within the framework of this investigation we have obtained large-scale and resonant information, alarming information, which we promptly shared with our partners. In addition, we provided information to the Turkish side, and accordingly, based on the information provided by us, the Turkish anti-terrorist service and various units conducted a large-scale anti-terrorist operation at two locations in Turkey yesterday, May 5," said Bacha Mgeladze.The Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Gharibashvili met with the Mission Chief of the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Middle East and Central Asia Department James John.During the meeting held at the government administration, the economic situation of the country was reviewed, highlighting the strong recovery demonstrated by the country following the Covid-19 crisis. Despite the global challenges faced, the positive dynamics have persisted, as noted during the meeting.The Prime Minister of Georgia emphasized the significance of the current program of the International Monetary Fund during the meeting with the head of the IMF mission.Irakli Gharibashvili expressed gratitude to James John for the unwavering support of the International Monetary Fund in Georgia's structural, financial, and economic reforms. The Prime Minister highlighted the country's continued dedication to implementing reforms.
Pawel Herczynski, the European Union Ambassador to Georgia, on Sunday said receiving the European Union membership candidate status was the next stage in the countrys integration process and would bring it even closer to membership of the bloc, Trend reports with reference to Agenda.

In his remarks at the annual Europe Day event in Georgia, Herczynski noted the goal of EU membership was supported by a vast majority of Georgian citizens.

We celebrate Europe Day. Georgia meets this day with a European perspective, it is a great success. [...] This is a historic chance to become a member of a united, secure and economically strong European family. I wish Georgia success on this path, Herczynski said.

Ulrik Tidestrom, the Swedish Ambassador to Georgia, highlighted his Government had always supported Georgia's European integration.

This is not the first Europe Day celebration in Georgia, but it is the first Europe Day celebration that Georgia sees from a European perspective. Sweden has always supported Georgia's European integration, Tidestrom said.

Georgia's path to Europe is as important for Sweden as its EU presidency. Why? Because we are stronger together, and we need more Georgia both in Sweden and in the EU, he noted.

The two-day Europe Day events, organised by the Georgian Government Administration, showcased Spanish and Swedish culture, cuisine and traditions in this years edition.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured a final forfeiture order for assets linked to retired Major-General Emmanuel Atewe Atewe, who is a former commander of the military joint task force, Operation Pulo Shield, in the Niger Delta.

In a statement obtained on Monday, the EFCC disclosed that the forfeited assets consist of seven Federal Capital Territory (FCT) properties, one in Bayelsa state, and 30,000 MTN shares.

It was learnt that Federal High Court Judge Chukujekwu Aneke in Lagos issued the order on Friday.

According to reports, the properties include various plots of land in Abuja and Bayelsa and 50 hectares of farmland in Kuje, Abuja.

The EFCC had previously secured an interim forfeiture for these assets, along with 30,000 MTN shares and 290 million naira, suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity. The commission alleges that Atewe diverted N8.5 billion from the military between September 2014 and May 2015.

Atewe faces prosecution alongside Patrick Akpobolokemi, former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); Kime Enzogu, and Josephine Otuaga. They are charged with conspiracy, stealing, and money laundering.

While the court granted the federal government the final forfeiture of the properties, it denied the EFCCs request to forfeit the 290 million naira sum.
Lynne Kilby fears the worst if plans to close the Minden emergency department move forward on June 1.

Were working hard to raise awareness and, at the very least, push back the closure, said the Kinmount resident, whose voice has joined thousands of others in Haliburton County and Kawartha Lakes opposing the decision.

Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) announced the news April 20, stating emergency and in-patient services in Minden will move to Haliburton as of June 1. Minden emergency department staff will be transferred to the Haliburton emergency department.

This was an evidence-based decision, which was made in the best interest of our community, said board chair David OBrien, adding the move enables HHHS to continue providing the high-quality health services that Haliburton County residents and visitors count on.

OBrien explained the ongoing global health human resources crisis has had a serious impact on operations at HHHS. The shortage of nursing and medical staff has meant the organization has needed to take extraordinary measures to keep both emergency departments operating, which has required significant personal and professional sacrifices from staff. Bringing together HHHSs emergency services at one site means more staff available to help create a more stable and effective staffing situation.

HaliburtonKawartha LakesBrock MPP Laurie Scott empathizes with residents, but supports the decision.

I know that the decision to close Minden emergency took us as a community off guard. In the wake of the announcement, the residents passionately conveyed their feelings, said Scott. The hospital board does have the authority to make these decisions. I respect that. If the board chooses to reverse or delay, I will continue to work with them to explore all solutions. Alternatively, I will work with them, their stakeholders, partners and the community to explore other health care opportunities.

Mayor Doug Elmslie also issued a statement on behalf of Kawartha Lakes council.

We regret the need to close the Minden Hospital ER and potential impacts to the residents that access health care at that site. We support any additional time to make the necessary adjustments to address the impacts on emergency services processes.

However, the regrets and explanations do little to mitigate concerns voiced by individuals like Kilby.

So many people will be affected, she said. I know people who drive from Peterborough (County) to Minden because its faster. Closing the ER will definitely impact care and increase demand on other hospitals that are already dealing with their own staff shortages.

Ross Memorial Hospital expects that the Minden emergency room closure will result in more visits annually to our emergency department, said Ross Memorial Hospital communications and public affairs officer Ryan Young. Planning is well underway to meet any increased demand on our services.

The Lindsay hospital has averaged 34,000 emergency department visits over the last four years; 35,942 in 2021-22 alone.

Kilby also expressed concern for the summer residents.

The population triples in the summer. What kind of effect will that have on our other emergency services, like paramedics, where minutes matter  Its just unfathomable really, continued Kilby.

Minden Hills Mayor Bob Carter echoes her concerns.

We will have an increased demand for our paramedic services and ambulances. This demand will need to be paid for by the county, said Carter. On top of that, if the paramedics are busy due to their increased workload, the responsibility for answering medical calls will need to be answered by our volunteer fire departments.

HaliburtonKawartha LakesBrock MP Jamie Schmale  who has been a Minden emergency room client himself over the years  does not agree with the decision.

I recognize the value to the community and also the impact this news has on it, said Schmale, noting the reasoning behind the closure isnt solely a Haliburton issue. Staff shortages are a problem everywhere in Canada.

While he hopes delaying the decision could enable the community to find ways to address the issue  Kinmount residents success in providing health care is a prime example  there are no short-term solutions.

He does believe governments do have the ability to make a difference.

Haliburton needs housing. Its difficult to attract individuals when you have no place to put them, said Schmale. Expediting the process of regulating foreign health care professionals is another vital piece to addressing shortages. We have nurses and doctors waiting in line to work in Canada  and thats unacceptable when we have an emergency room closing because of staff shortages.

For more information on what is being done by the community to delay the closure, visit www.mindenmatters.com and Save Minden Ontario Emergency Room on Facebook.

A GoFundMe (www.gofundme.com/f/save-the-minden-er) has been set up to support the cost of the communitys battle. Individuals are also invited to sign the petition at https://www.change.org/p/help-save-the-minden-hills-emergency-department?recruiter=1305476035&recruited_by_id=a942c260-e13e-11ed-a511-451eac7fde2d&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=copylink&utm_campaign=petition_dashboard.

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A Cobourg woman is facing charges after police say they were called to a residence following a report of an alleged indecent act.

On May 7, 2023, at about 6:50 p.m., Cobourg police said they were called to a residence in the area of Burke Street and Ball Street for a report of an indecent act. The complainant advised police an individual allegedly made threatening remarks and exposed their buttocks to the complainant before leaving the area.

Police said through reviewing CCTV footage of the area they identified a person of interest.

Police said as a result of an investigation, a 37-year-old Cobourg woman was arrested. During the arrest, the woman allegedly became combative and resisted arrest, said police.

As a result, police said the accused was charged with the following offences:

Indecent act  contrary to section 173(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC.)

Utter threats cause death or bodily harm  contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the CCC.

Assault police with intent to resist arrest  contrary to section 270(1)(b) of the CCC.

None of these charges or allegations have been proven in court.

The accused was released on an undertaking with a court date scheduled for June 21, 2023, reported police.

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The final stages of trail construction at Waverly Heights Park will begin Thursday, Parks Canada advises.

The city park, located along the Trent-Severn Waterway at 1189 Scollard Dr. in the northeast end of Peterborough, will be connected to the existing Thompsons Bay Dam Trail, which leads to Trent Universitys trail system.

Work began in October.

The park will be open during the work, with signs warning people away from active work areas.

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May 8 is the 78th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, or V-E Day, the end of the Second World War. During the war, with many of the men in the services, there was a shortage of workers in offices and manufacturing plants. Thousands of Canadian women rose to the challenge of filling those jobs, moving from farms and small towns to larger centres.

Helen Reeder was the eldest daughter of eleven children growing up in an impoverished Saskatchewan farm family during the Depression. Seeing no future for herself there, she studied shorthand and typing through correspondence. She got a job at the Department of Munitions and Supply in Ottawa, which is where she met Harry Culley who was playing at a social with the RCAF dance band.

When he went overseas, they became engaged, and she moved to Toronto to be closer to his family, taking a job as a cashier and stenographer at the Toronto Transit Commission, a job that would have previously been done by a man.

Helen and others like her kept up the morale of those overseas by sending letters and packages with chocolates, fudge, fruitcakes, tinned food, crackers, cheese, soap, hand-knit socks and even liquor as well as raising money in Victory Loan fundraisers. Helens department at the TTC sold more than $5,000 worth of bonds (about $75,000 in todays currency) in one drive.

When word finally came of the end of the war, people took to the streets to celebrate.

Here is an excerpt from Helens letter to Harry.

Toronto, May 7, 1945 [excerpt]

My Only Sweetheart Harry,

What a day honey! Im still going around in a daze really. At present it is 9:40 p.m. and I am writing at your dining room table, after having seen the show A Song to Remember at Sheas. I jumped out of bed at ten when I overheard the news on the radio in the next room [of the official surrender.]

She [her landlady] said it was true, and I walked back and forth to compose myself or try to. It just happened I had the day off as I worked yesterday instead, wasnt that nice. As I didnt get a call in a half-hour I phoned your Mother and she hadnt even heard it. Your Dad was still in bed ... Then I said Id come down about one.

Oh darling! the thoughts of seeing you thrill me even though I know it will be three to six months. Even the air is different, no kidding ... We were downtown in the mob and we sat on the steps at the City Hall until after three, to see if the official announcement would come, but apparently it has been postponed until tomorrow.

At least King George and the other leaders are speaking then. We walked back and saw lots of gay people really doing the town and a couple of accidents, but they had calmed down a bit tonight. The news reports say the Canadian service men really did it up in London. Guess you wont be there, will you? We just looked out the window and the fireworks are going off.

I am excited darling. What will it be like when you come home? All day tomorrow those thoughts will run through my mind. Heres to us. I love you dear.

Always yours. Helen

My book Love in the Air: Second World War Letters is about the more than 600 letters my parents wrote to each other while they were apart. Its available in the Peterborough Public Library, at www.friesenpress.com, and on Amazon. For more information, please visit www.joanneculley.com.

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Wearing sunscreen, avoiding the harshest hours of the sun and wearing protective clothing are all steps that people can take to protect themselves from skin cancer  and its best if theyre done all together.

Thats according to dermatologists, such as Saskatoons Dr. Irina Oroz, who is participating in the Canadian Dermatology Associations month-long National Sun Awareness campaign.

The risks of not protecting against the sun are serious. Melanoma is the fifth most common type of cancer in youth and young adults aged 15 to 29, and the fourth most common among adults 30 to 49, she said. With the campaign, the organization is urging Canadians to learn about the causes and early warning signs.

A lot of skin cancers are actually preventable, Oroz said. If Canadians are aware of what to look for, and theyre doing their own skin cancer screening, we can hopefully reduce the number of skin cancers.

Heres how Oroz suggests people keep themselves safe from the sun.

Layer sun-protection measures

Sunscreen is fantastic, but sunscreen used in combination with other sun-protection measures gives you even better protection and far more safety, Oroz said.

With sunscreen, its important to look for a product that is broad spectrum and at least SPF 30, she said. When outdoors, she suggested people reapply sunscreen every two hours.

While some people may have reservations about the texture and appearance of certain sunscreens, Oroz noted that there are a variety of styles available, including powders, sticks and dry-touch products.

Another helpful measure is avoiding the sun during peak ultraviolet hours. They change throughout the year and day but are usually between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., lasting longer than previously believed, she said.

The best way to know the UV index is to look it up in the moment, she added. There are so many ways of doing that nowadays.

Personally, Oroz has an app on her watch that shows the UV index alongside the weather.

According to the association, the scale runs from one to 11 but can reach 14 or higher in the southern United States or the tropics. A UV index of six or seven is high, while eight to 10 is very high, and 11 or higher is extreme. During peak hours, dermatologists suggest seeking shade, covering up, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Ensure youre protecting these body parts, too

Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat with at least a three-inch brim to cover the ears and face, is another measure people can employ to protect themselves.

In my own clinic, I often find that many skin cancers are found on the ears (and) on the face, Oroz said. A lot of people tend to forget their ears when applying sunscreen.

The same is true for the tops of the feet and the hands, Oroz said.

Check for skin cancer

The best outcome for skin cancers is with early detection, Oroz said. The earlier we can find a skin cancer, the better the outcomes, the better the survival rates.

Oroz suggested people check their skin for signs on a regular basis.

I would suggest that people take a quick look at their skin in the morning as theyre on the way to their shower  taking a peek to see if theres anything different or new or abnormal looking or something thats outside of their regular mole pattern.

The CDA lays out the signs with the ABCs of melanoma. It says melanoma can appear as a new mole or freckle-like spot, or develop in an existing mole.

The A is for asymmetry, meaning the shape on one side is different from the other. B is for border, meaning the border or visible edge is irregular, ragged and imprecise. C is for colour: colour variation with brown, black, red, grey or white within the lesion. D is for diameter as growth is typical of melanoma. E is for evolution, as people should look for changes in colour, size, shape or symptoms, such as itching, tenderness or bleeding.

Although Oroz said theres not much research about how often someone should check for skin cancer, she suggests doing so every month.

For Ontarians, it could be easier than ever to get checked. This year, the Canadian Dermatology Association is partnering with Melanoma Canadas Mole Mobile Skin Cancer Screening Unit, a bus making its way through the province until September.

The service will provide screening for patients in remote, Indigenous and underserved communities, and in cities with longer wait times for skin cancer screening appointments. Appointments can be booked online or people can walk in with service on a first-come, first-served basis.

At time of publication, there were appointments available in the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation on May 10. Additionally, walk-ins will be accepted in Brockville on May 13, Belleville on May 20, Cobourg on May 25 and Whitby on May 26.

The initiative is the first of a five-year project that will expand across the country.

Avoid making these other mistakes

The worst somebody could possibly do I supposed would be going outdoors during peak UV hours without sun protection or sun protective measures  frequent use of tanning beds: those things really do significantly increase your risk of skin cancer and melanoma overall, Oroz said.

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The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said on Monday that 150 migrants were rescued and returned to Libya in the past week, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

"In the period of April 30 - May 6, 150 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya," IOM said in a statement.

Three bodies of illegal migrants were recovered off the Libyan shore over the past week, noted the statement.

So far this year, a total of 4,969 illegal migrants have been rescued and returned to Libya, the organization said, adding that 532 illegal migrants died and 315 others went missing off the Libyan coast on the central Mediterranean route.

Due to the instability and chaos in the country since the fall of late leader Muammar Gaddafi's regime in 2011, many migrants, mostly Africans, choose to cross the Mediterranean Sea to European shores from Libya.
Q After university, I went to the UK for a co-op program. I found a flat mate through mutual friends. She was an easy person to live with, as we had completely opposite schedules and were therefore rarely home at the same time, other than to sleep.

When her friends would come over, she was funny, generous, and seemed happy. But whenever we were alone together, I was always surprised by how negatively she viewed the world and her life. She was definitely a cup-half-empty type of person.

We only lived together for a year, and then both went our separate ways. I lost touch with her during COVID, but Im still close with our mutual friend. I just found out that she died by suicide, and Im gobsmacked. I feel like the writing was on the wall and I ignored it. I am devastated by this news and feel as though I could have stopped it.

Should I speak to her parents? Should I tell anyone?

Guilty by association

A You are not guilty of anything. It is not your fault that this woman took her own life. You barely knew her when you lived together. It was astute of you to recognize that she had strong mood changes, but I assume she didnt show any obvious signs of self-destruction while you lived together.

You were her flatmate, not her friend or confidante. And if you had mentioned her negative attitude to your mutual friend then, she also didnt recognize the deeper issues. Neither of you are mental health experts. This is not on you.

I would suggest talking to a therapist to lay all of your emotions out, and hopefully they can help you with strategies to overcome your guilty feelings. Its natural that you feel badly about her outcome. Discuss your desire to speak with her parents with this professional. They can help you process the purpose and intentions, and if it would be helpful to either of you  or not.

Q I am so confused and feel like a loser. This is not going to sound the way I mean it but I am a very good-looking woman. I am fit, thin and dress really well. I used to be in the fashion industry, so Ive always had access to high-end designers with up-to-the-minute fashion trends. I have really nice hair and eyes; I get complimented all the time on my looks.

I also have a large group of core girlfriends, who have stood by my side for years and years. We laugh a lot and share great life experiences together. I go to bed at night knowing that I am, for all intents and purposes, a good person.

So why is it that all of my friends  every single one  are married and having kids, and Im still single? I get along with all of their husbands and love being an aunt to their babies. But I dont want to stay on the outside of this circle. I want what they have.

Why not me?

A Stop focusing on your outward appearance and what you dont have. I hate to say it  but I know my readers will say it if I dont  you sound a bit shallow. Physical beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and fades with age.

Focus on the good things in your life: your health, your friends, your job/hobbies. Now try to meet people through interest groups. Focus on whats in your heart, mind and soul and not whats on the outside.

Feedback Regarding both questions in your column on March 21:

Reader Both letters seem similar to me. The subjects may be experiencing difficulties resulting from the recent pandemic and lockdowns. In spite of things returning to the new normal, not everyone is able to bounce back to their old selves.

Perhaps the brothers in the first letter are still dealing with the trauma of it all. Your advice to the brother-in-law is good, but it could go further. (Note: I suggested the brother-in-law go away with the two brothers for some bonding.) Perhaps he may need to steer them to seek therapy.

The wife in the second letter may also need therapy.

Lisi Agreed. Thats why I suggested she seek professional help. Hopefully, her family doctor may be able to pick up on that if that is the case. She may be depressed. A change in dress habit for the worse is sometimes an indicator of depression.

Ellie Tesher and Lisi Tesher are advice columnists for the Star and based in Toronto. Send your relationship questions via email: ellie@thestar.ca or lisi@thestar.ca

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CALGARY - Oil and gas producers in Alberta are temporarily shutting in production as wildfires rage across the energy-producing province.

With more than 100 active fires burning across Alberta and a provincial state of emergency in place, companies with operations in the western and northwestern parts of the province have pulled workers out and halted operations.

Crescent Point Energy Corp., which has significant operations in the Kaybob Duvernay light oil play, said Monday it has temporarily shut in production of approximately 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in the affected areas.

This precautionary measure is being taken by the company to protect the safety of its staff, the community, environment and its assets, Crescent Point said in a news release.

Vermilion Energy Inc. has shut in about 30,000 barrels per day of production, while Paramount Resources Ltd. said on Sunday its operations in the Grande Prairie and Kaybob regions in Alberta are being affected and that it has temporarily curtailed about 50,000 barrels per day of production.

Tourmaline Oil Corp., Canadas largest natural gas producer, said Monday members of its staff and their families have been pulled out from certain facilities and homes in the Edson area. Tourmaline has shut down nine gas processing facilities in the region.

Cenovus Energy Inc. said in an email it has safely shut in production and brought plants down in some areas of its conventional business. The company later said in a press release that approximately 85,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day of production has been impacted in the companys Rainbow Lake, Kaybob-Edson, Elmworth-Wapiti and Clearwater operating areas.

Pipeline company TC Energy Corp. said it has shut down two compressor stations on its Nova Gas Transmission Ltd. system, while Trans Mountain Corp. said it has deployed a perimeter sprinkler system at its Edson pump station as a protective measure.

The Trans Mountain pipeline itself, and the expansion project under construction, have not been affected.

The wildfire situation in Alberta is evolving rapidly and there are no official volume estimates for how much oil and gas production has been curtailed, said Rory Johnston, a Toronto-based energy analyst and founder of the Commodity Context newsletter.

While its possible the number could already be as high as 185,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, Johnston said, thats a much smaller impact than was felt as a result of the Fort McMurray wildfire in 2016

That event resulted in a temporary 14-per-cent decline of crude oil exports from Alberta as oilsands facilities had to be taken off-line and were not fully restored for several months.

According to the Canada Energy Regulator, the Fort McMurray wildfire in May 2016 resulted in oilsands production losses as high as one million barrels per day at the height of the disaster.

This so far is being seen as temporary  its not a replay of 2016, Johnston said. But it is very dry, and there are wildfires all over the place. Theres nothing to say this wont get worse.

Johnston added that he believes wildfire is becoming a significant risk to the Canadian oil and gas sector.

Particularly as the oil industry continues to grow, so that its covering a larger and larger area, and wildfire activity continues to increase, he said.

I think some of this is going to be a perennial risk to the Canadian industry.

Other companies that have shut in production include Pipestone Energy Corp., which has temporarily curtailed approximately 20,000 barrels per day of production in the Grande Prairie area, and Kiwetinohk Energy, which has shut in the majority of its Placid operations in response to downstream third-party interruptions that are in proximity to the Alberta wildfires.

Whitecap Resources Inc. said Monday its operations in northern Alberta and in northeast British Columbia have been impacted by proactive shut-ins and third-party interruptions. The company said it is still assessing the impact to its second-quarter production volumes.

Baytex Energy Corp. says it has curtailed about 10,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day due to the shut-in of third-party infrastructure.

Pembina Pipeline Corp. says it has currently shut down its Saturn I and II gas plants at the Saturn Complex north of Hinton, Alberta, and the Duvernay Complex, west of Fox Creek, Alberta, with a combined processing capacity of 443 million cubic feet of natural gas per day.

NuVista Energy Ltd. has curtailed 40,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day of production in the Grande Prairie region.

Most of the affected companies have reported no damage to their infrastructure or assets so far. Vermilion Energy said its assessment to date indicates minimal damage to key infrastructure.

It is unclear when oil and gas companies will be able to resume operations in the affected areas.

Scotiabank analyst Jason Bouver said in a morning note to clients that Crescent Point alone could see its 2023 cash flow per share decrease by about four per cent due to the impacts of the fires, assuming that the companys Kaybob Duvernay production is shut in for the remainder of the second quarter.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

Companies in this story: (TSX:VET, TSX:POU, TSX:CPG, TSX:CVE, TSX:TRP, TSX:WCP, TSX:BTE)

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GRAND FORKS, B.C. - The flooding situation in British Columbia has entered a period of stabilization after at-risk regions received less rain than expected, but forecasters say warm weather will likely trigger further threats later this week.

Emergency Management Minister Bowinn Ma said Monday that communities such as Grand Forks, about 520 kilometres east of Vancouver, saw less precipitation than was originally forecasted for the weekend.

The result is the provincial river forecast centre downgrading flood warnings to flood advisories, including in the entire Boundary Region where sandbagging has been at full speed for days.

As many as 41 properties in the area were under evacuation orders at one time on Sunday.

Ma warned, however, that diminished risk does not mean no risk, and devastated communities such as Cache Creek, 350 kilometres northeast of Vancouver, remains under flood warnings.

Communities that face challenges last week, such as Cache Creek, Okanagan Indian Band and Grand Forks can expect a period of stabilization for the rivers throughout this week, Ma said.

While the weather was co-operative, this does not mean that conditions have resolved entirely on the ground.

The province estimates that about 50 people in B.C. remain affected by evacuation orders triggered by flooding or flood risks, while another 2,000 are on alert in case of flooding.

Dave Campbell, head of the BC River Forecast Centre, said during a news conference that the next few days will see cooler, unsettled weather patterns that contribute little to flood risks.

However, the anticipated spike in temperatures later in the week could create more problems, possibly affecting communities that werent hit last week, he said.

Campbell said above-seasonal temperatures in late April and early May have burned through about a quarter of B.C.s seasonal melt, which is much faster than normal, however, there is still more snow in higher elevations.

For the next period of warming, were anticipating an additional round of accelerated snow melt, Campbell said. We could see, again, another period of elevated flood risk in the province and bringing on potentially new areas that have not experienced flooding so far this year, particularly as we start to melt the higher-elevation snow and start to bring in runoff into the larger rivers.

Environment Canada is forecasting temperatures in Grand Forks to hit 32 degrees by Sunday.

Ma also responded to reports that Cache Creek residents wanted to engage the province in big-picture planning to limit the annual flood threat.

The minister said B.C. is developing a provincial flood strategy that will inform  local mitigation plans and will provide substantial funding toward emergency preparedness, but communities also need to make decisions on what they want to prioritize in those plans.

A lot of those conversations have to be held at the community level, Ma said. It doesnt necessarily help to have the province come in with a top-down, heavy-handed approach to those conversations.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

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On a damp and chilly English morning, after most of a natural lifespan spent preparing and waiting, King Charles III was at last formally vested Saturday in the role he was born for.

The challenges Charles faces, after the first coronation of a British monarch in 70 years, are daunting.

The institution must contend with a gathering existential crisis, its subjects expressing disdain for the sins of empire or, perhaps more lethally, indifference to it all. The Commonwealth is restless, the realms demanding apologies, reparations, or a new model of monarchy.

With brother Prince Andrew disgraced and son Prince Harry estranged, the House of Windsor itself is unsettled and congenitally given to self-inflicted wounds.

To address it all, the new King, at 74, with Queen Camilla has a window of limited duration.

It might have been Prince William who, on his 21st birthday, put his finger on the task facing his father. Its important that people feel the monarchy can keep up with them and is relevant to their lives, William said. A challenge that endures and grows.

In 1953, on the coronation of Charless mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who died in September, Canadas then-governor general Vincent Massey enthused that our truly venerated monarchy of Britain has renewed itself, in the person of our young sovereign.

Today, there exists a much less venerated monarchy. Today, there is little real sense of renewal.

As recent polling suggests, increasing numbers of Canadians are disenchanted with the monarchy. Only three in 10 looked favourably on Charles. Half wanted to shed the monarchy entirely.

Thats not likely to happen soon. The necessary constitutional manoeuvrings are complex. And Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said he doesnt intend to go there. And why should he? Canadians are well served by Canadas constitutional monarchy.

Still, experts suggest the Kings relationship with Canada will be important.

In her biography of Charles, Catherine Mayer noted that in devising a new model of monarchy for the Realms, the (then) prince hopes to defeat their new model armies of republicanism.

Canada, with small but committed forces on either side and larger phalanxes of dont-knows and couldnt-cares, makes a good testing ground.

Arriving on the throne in his eighth decade, Charles is hamstrung by limitations not of his making. He can never surpass his mother in the signature traits of maturity and resolve. And it is his son, William, who many would have preferred to see take the throne as an agent of renewal.

Yet there are those who suggest Charles is underestimated and wouldnt be the first leader to benefit from low expectations.

For a half century, he has been forward looking, an early advocate for the environment, conservation, organic farming, equality of opportunity, for youth, for interfaith and intercultural understanding. What once was dismissed, now looks prescient.

Charles has compensated for a want of gifts with hard work. Former British prime minister Tony Blair called him enormously and sincerely committed to the causes that animate him.

David Cameron, another past PM, said the King is expert in many policy fields. He has a detailed knowledge, reads deeply and consults with authorities from all over the world.

Like all mortals, Charles has been tempered by pain and loss  a scarring childhood, divorce from and the death of Princess Diana, estrangement from his son. Through it all, he has carried on.

In the last 20 years, married to his great love, Camilla, he has seemed increasingly comfortable in his role and in his own skin.

He has had more time to plan for his reign than any predecessor. And if the monarchy seems out of touch with the times, his ideas and willingness to reckon with the past and modernize do not.

With pageantry and ancient traditions of the coronation on Saturday, his moment, his crucible  a moment he once described as the most ghastly, inexorable sense of his future  arrived.

May the King shoulder this role  the burden of history and the weight of expectations  with wisdom and grace.

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Charles III crowned King of United Kingdom

LONDON: Charles III on Saturday (May 6) finally met his date with destiny after a lifetime as heir to his late mother Queen Elizabeth II, as he was officially crowned king in the first coronation in Britain since 1953.



By Bangkok Post

Saturday 6 May 2023, 08:26PM

King Charles III wears St Edwards Crown at the coronation ceremony held inside Westminster Abbey in London Saturday (May 6). Photo: AFP

At 12.02pm exactly (6.02pm Phuket time), the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby placed the solid gold St Edwards Crown on Charless head as a sacred and ancient symbol of the monarchs authority, reports Bangkok Post.

Cries of God Save the King rang out from the 2,300-strong congregation at Westminster Abbey and trumpet fanfares sounded at the climax of the solemn religious confirmation of his accession.

Outside, ceremonial gun salutes blasted out across land and sea while bells pealed in celebration at churches across the country.

The buildup to the Christian ceremony of prayer and praise  steeped in 1,000 years of British history and tradition, with sumptuous robes and priceless regalia  has been mostly celebratory.

But even before Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 75, left Buckingham Palace for a rainy procession to the abbey, police arrested dozens of protesters using new powers rushed onto the statute book to crack down on direct action groups.

The anti-monarchy movement Republic  which wants an elected head of state  said six of its organisers were detained, while climate activists Just Stop Oil said 19 of its number were held.

Nevertheless, dozens of Republic activists held aloft banners on the route of the procession route, declaring: Not My King.

Both Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International voiced concern at the arrests.

This is something you would expect to see in Moscow, not London, HRW said.

Londons Metropolitan Police has some 11,500 officers on the streets in one of its biggest ever security operations. It has warned that it has an extremely low threshold for protests.

As well as being the first coronation in 70 years, it was the first of a king since 1937. It was only the second to be televised and the first in colour and streamed online.

Contemporary touches

Much of the two-hour Anglican service, in which Charles pledged I come not to be served but to serve, would have been recognisable to the 39 other monarchs crowned at Westminster Abbey since 1066.

ut while many of the intricate rituals and ceremony to recognise Charles as his peoples undoubted king remained, the king sought to bring other aspects of the service up to date.

Women bishops participated for the first time, as did leaders of Britains non-Christian faiths while its Celtic languages  Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Irish Gaelic  featured prominently.

A gospel choir sang for the first time at a coronation while a Greek choir intoned a psalm in tribute to Charless late father, Prince Philip, who was born on the island of Corfu.

As king, Charles is supreme governor of the Church of England and has described himself as a committed Anglican Christian. But he heads a more religiously and ethnically diverse country than the one his mother inherited in the shadow of World War II.

As such, he sought to make the congregation more reflective of British society, inviting ordinary members of the public to sit alongside heads of state and global royalty.

In another change, the coronation themes mirrored his lifelong interest in biodiversity and sustainability.

Seasonal flowers and foliage were brought, from the wind-battered Isle of Skye in northwest Scotland to Cornwall at the tip of Englands southwest coast, to fill the abbey.

Ceremonial vestments from previous coronations were reused, and the anointing oil  created from olives on groves on the Mount of Olives and perfumed with essential oils  was vegan.

Charles was anointed out of sight of the congregation behind a three-sided screen in front of the High Altar to the strains of Handels soaring anthem Zadok the Priest, sung at every coronation since 1727.

Opposition

Rishi Sunak  Britains first prime minister of colour, who gave a reading from the Bible at the service  has described the coronation as a proud expression of our history, culture and traditions.

But not everyone is convinced: polling indicates waning support for the monarchy, particularly among younger people. Charless eldest brother Prince Andrew  sidelined due to his friendship with the late convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein  was booed as he headed to the abbey.

Another royal exile Prince Harry, who has criticised the family since leaving for the United States in 2020, attended the coronation on his own.

Overseas, Charless position as the hereditary monarch and head of state of 14 Commonwealth countries looks increasingly fragile.

Jamaica and Belize both signalled this week that they are moving toward becoming republics, while Australia, Canada and others may eventually follow suit.

Britons struggling with the soaring cost of living have meanwhile questioned why taxpayers should stump up for the coronation, with the bill estimated to be over 100 million ($26 million).

Strong support

Yet the huge crowds of royal fans that have been building all week on The Mall outside Buckingham Palace indicate that the royals still have a central role in British culture and history.

Many of those camping out to watch have flown in from abroad, underlining the royal familys untouched position as Britains leading global brand.

Christine Wilen travelled from Niagara Falls in Canada for the event.

Im very excited to be here, to be part of this history, said Wilen, wearing a visor and sweatshirt in Canadian colours.

Its just too good an opportunity to miss, said Nick Demont, 60, outside the abbey. Theres a good chance I wont see another one.




High-profile monks embezzlement tally increases

NAKHON RATCHASIMA: Police have found more money and gold bullion worth about B100 million buried behind Phra Ajarn Khoms temple in Nakhon Ratchasima province, raising his alleged embezzlement to almost B300mn.

crimecorruptionreligionpolice

By Bangkok Post

Monday 8 May 2023, 04:00PM

Money and valuables allegedly embezzled by Phra Ajarn Khom, displayed by police at Wat Pa Dhammakiri in Nakhon Ratchasima province last night (May 7). Photo: Police via Bangkok Post

Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, said today (May 8) that investigators and members of the new executive of Wat Pa Dhammakiri found about B80mn in cash and bullion worth about B19mn buried on a hill behind the temple in Pak Chong district yesterday, reports the Bangkok Post.

To date, officials had found about B300mn worth of cash and valuables allegedly embezzled by former monk Phra Ajarn Khom, now known as Khom Khongkaeo, and alleged accomplices, the commissioner said.

The offences might go back to 2020... The motive would be the huge amont of money that faithful people donated... The suspects may have wrongly believed the money came from the peoples faith in them, but that is not the case at all, Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop said.

Police had so far found only three suspects in the embezzlement case, but investigators were expanding their efforts. If more people were involved, they would face legal action.

All relevant authorities were helping police in the investigation. No one would be wrongfully charged.

Today police asked the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases to extend the detention of the three suspects for another 12 days while the probe continues.

They are Mr Khom, 39, his young sister Juthathip Phubodiwarochuphan, 35, and Wuthima Thaomor, 38-year-old former abbot of the temple.

They were arrested on charges of embezzling B180mn from the temple. Mr Khom achieved fame for his meditation technique, and had many high-profile followers. He denied the charges.
Prayut hits campaign trail in Phuket

PHUKET: More than 12,000 people turned out in support of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at a campaign event at Saphan Hin last night (May 7).

politics

By The Phuket News

Monday 8 May 2023, 04:09PM

The event was held to promote the United Thai Nation Party (Ruam Thai Sang Chart) and the partys candidates to contest the Phuket seats in the national general election to be held next Sunday (May 14).

Joining Gen Prayut on stage for the event were party leader Peeraphan Saliratwiphak and party secretary-general Ekanat Promphan, along with the partys three candidates for Phuket.

Piya Boat Seedokbuab, a former Deputy President of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO), will be contesting Phuket Constituency 1, and has secured No. 8 on the ballot.

Nuanchan Samartkoomban, who has been involved in local politics for 20 years and has also served as a PPAO councillor, will be contesting Phuket Constituency 2. She has secured No. 3 on the ballot.

Channarong Prateep Na Thalang, a former PPAO councilor for PPAO Constituency 5, will be contesting Phuket Constituency 3. He has secured No. 7 on the ballot.

Before arriving at Saphan Hin, Gen Prayut and his top-flight party entourage visited the Heroines Monument to pay their respects.

At Saphan Hin, where attendees were left standing room only despite 12,000 chairs being set out, Gen Prayut told the crowd that he missed Phuket and hearing people speak in the Southern dialect, and he missed Southern food.

While walking through the crowd, Gen Prayut was mobbed by supporters and well-wishers presenting garlands and taking photos.

According to a report by the Phuket Info Center, Gen Prayut, referred to by his nic=kname Phi Tu, asked the crowd, Who opened Phuket Sandbox?

At that time I decided to open [Phuket to tourists during the COVID-19 pandemic] because we were confident that Phuket people would work together with the government, he said.

To this day, Phuket is one of the worlds best tourist attractions. There are many tourists and we are bidding to host Expo 2028. If we get to host it, this will be the future of Phuket, it will make Phuket known around the world and will make people travel to Phuket 10 times more. Please believe in Phuket people, Gen Prayut added.

Gen Prayut promoted the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Partys ambitions to make Phukets tourism better, by having more tourists visit Phuket, increasing local peoples incomes, including those of the elderly. He continued with the partys plans to provide more social programs to improve the quality of life of elderly people throughout the country.

He repeated the partys goal of building a new road from the greater Bangkok area to Southern Thailand as part of what has been called the Thailand Riviera project.

He also read a poem calling for an end to divisions within the country, as it is very dangerous.

Gen Prayut thanked the people who turned out in support of the event, and urged them to vote for the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party candidates in Phuket.

He also reassured people that he was a member of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party. Dont believe anyone who says that I belong to another party. I am definitely in the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, he said.

Gen Prayut also specifically lambasted liars, said the Phuket Info Center report, noting that Gen Prayut said he was like the heart of a dying person, he does not lie.

But some people who are about to die tell lies that change every day. Therefore, please believe that he is a person who speaks the truth and does the truth. If you want a real government with clear results, you must choose, the Phuket Info Center report concluded.
Wagner says Russia promises enough ammo to stay in Bakhmut

MOSCOW: The head of the Wagner mercenary group said yesterday (May 7) that Russia had promised his fighters enough ammunition to stay in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, after threatening to pull out in scathing videos.

RussianUkraineviolencedeathmilitarypolitics

By AFP

Monday 8 May 2023, 03:47PM

Yevgeny Prigozhin addresses the Russian armys top brass standing in front of Wagner fighters at an undisclosed location on Friday (May 5). Photo: AFP

Rivalries between Yevgeny Prigozhin and the conventional army had boiled over during the battle for the now-devastated flashpoint, where Wagner is leading the assault.

Overnight we received a combat order... they promised to give us all the ammunition and armaments we need to continue the operations in Bakhmut, Prigozhin said.

His group has been assured that everything necessary will be provided, he added.

On Friday, he had threatened to pull out of Bakhmut on May 10, blaming Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for tens of thousands of Russian casualties in a series of blistering, profanity-laced videos.

Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable, he said.

The internal row comes as Russia has reported increasing drone strikes and sabotage inside its territory ahead of an expected spring counteroffensive from Ukraine.

Ukraine also reported casualties early this morning from fresh Russian strikes on Kyiv overnight.

The Ukrainian air command said that all 35 Russian drones launched at the city had been detected and shot down, while the local military administration said at least five people were wounded, with falling debris blamed for damage in multiple areas.

In Odessa, the district military administration reported an airstrike hitting a warehouse, adding that there has not been any information about victims.

Dying so you can get fat

In one of his previous video broadsides against the Russian army, Prigozhin stood before what he said were rows of dead Wagner fighters.

They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your wood-panelled offices, he said.

On Saturday, he asked Moscow to let him hand over his positions to Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, who had said that his forces were ready to move toward Bakhmut.

Prigozhin has for months accused the conventional army of refusing to deliver ammunition to his men.

Nevertheless, the emotive language used in Fridays videos and the ferocity of his attack on the leaders of Russias campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

Yesterday, Prigozhin said Russian General Sergei Surovikin, one of Gerasimovs deputies, would oversee Wagners operations.

He is the only decorated general that knows how to fight, Prigozhin said in a fresh dig at Russias other army chiefs.

Surovikin was named military commander in Ukraine in October.

Three months later, he was replaced by Gerasimov, whom Prigozhin regularly criticises.

Everything possible

Russian troops have battled since last summer to capture Bakhmut, the political importance of which has come to surpass any strategic value.

On Saturday, the commander of Ukraines ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the eastern front.

The enemy is not going to change its plans and is doing everything possible to take control of Bakhmut, Syrsky said in a statement published yesterday.

Ukraine has been gearing up for a counteroffensive, with some experts suggesting that the drone strikes and acts of sabotage on Russian-held territory are part of its preparations.

The strikes precede Russias May 9 public holiday, an event that celebrates the Soviet victory over the Nazis in World War II.

Yesterday, the Russian army said it had repelled 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea.

Shortly before, authorities in Russian-annexed Crimea, surrounded by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, said they had downed more than 10 drones over the southern peninsula.

The Russian security services also said they thwarted a drone attack on an airfield in the Ivanovo region.

Unpredictable

As the counteroffensive looms, Moscow has ordered families with children and elderly members to temporarily evacuate a slew of Russian-held areas in southern Ukraine.

More than 1,500 people have been evacuated, including 632 minors, the governor of the southern Zaporizhzhia region said yesterday.

The partial evacuations concern at least 18 towns and settlements, including the town near Europes largest nuclear plant.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Saturday.

Im extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant.

Meanwhile, Russian pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin issued a defiant message yesterday, a day after being wounded in an attack on his car that killed his assistant.

I tell the demons: you will not intimidate anyone, Prilepin wrote on Telegram in his first message since the attack.

Moscow has blamed Ukraine and the United States for the car attack, which Kyiv has suggested was due to in-fighting between rival Russian factions.
NASA plans to launch a new SpaceX resupply mission to the International Space Station in early June, according to the agency, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

The SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft is scheduled to launch on the company's Falcon 9 rocket no earlier than June 3, from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

SpaceX Dragon will deliver new science investigations, food, supplies, and equipment for the international crew, including the next pair of International Space Station Roll Out Solar Arrays, according to NASA.

These solar panels, which roll out using stored kinetic energy, will expand the energy-production capabilities of the space station, according to NASA.
Dr. Mekalai Kumanan, a family doctor in Cambridge and president of the Ontario College of Family Physicians.







On a daily basis, Dr. Mekalai Kumanan says someone will ask her if she can take on a family member, friend or neighbour.

We're hearing stories of patients who've been looking for months, if not years, to find a family physician within the region, Kumanan, a Cambridge-based family doctor and current president of the Ontario College of Family Physicians, told the Chronicle recently.

The college is calling for urgent action with new data showing at least 64,900 people are without a family doctor in Waterloo Region, compared with 58,100 in 2020.

I think all of us who practice medicine find it very, very hard to have to say no, especially when it's someone you know or someone who's got medical issues where they require ongoing care, because this is what we do, Kumanan said. We provide care to patients and their families.

The college says the latest data reflects the crisis is being felt across the province, with approximately 2.2 million Ontarians without a family doctor  a significant rise from the previously reported 1.8 million in 2020.

Researchers believe these stats are underestimated because the data doesn't include babies born or people who moved to the area after 2019.

Regardless, a lot of people don't have access to things like cancer screening, vaccinations and chronic disease management, which leads to poorer outcomes and higher costs, Kumanan noted.

What's worrisome, when we look at the data of people who don't have family physicians, these are patients who are often among the patients who require it the most, she said.

Within the regions patient population of 533,813, more than 11,000 without a doctor live in racialized communities, 7,750 suffer from mental health issues; nearly 3,250 live with diabetes.

The OCFP says a multipronged approach is required to fast-track foreign-trained doctors, increase family medicine residency spots and add primary care team members who can support a broad range of patient needs.

Kimberly Moran, CEO of the college, said the provinces recent announcement to establish 18 new health teams is a step in the right direction, however there wont be enough new doctors to cover all patients who lose their doctor to retirement in future years.

Its projected that more than three million Ontarians or one in five people could be without a family doctor by 2025 when the provinces population is expected to surpass 15 million.

Kumanan said fewer medical students are choosing family medicine. We saw an increased rate of retirement in the early days of the pandemic, she added.

The College of Family Physicians of Canada found that the burnout rate among family physicians tripled in 2021 compared to the previous year, with 51 per cent indicating they were working beyond capacity.

Other research shows two in three family doctors are experiencing moderate to severe burnout, and one in four family doctors are experiencing high or severe burnout.?Another study found that physicians in Ontario spent approximately 18 million hours on administrative work per year in 2021.

The OCFP says improvements to outdated digital systems would help ease the burden and free up doctors time.

As our population is aging and patients are becoming more complex in terms of their medical issues, that requires more of our time as family doctors, and so we end up spending more time with our patients, which they need, Kumanan said.

RELATED STORIES Family doctor shortage is symptom of ongoing healthcare problems in Ontario

At a budget meeting held earlier this year, Waterloo city council increased the amount of money allotted to physician recruitment efforts conducted by the Greater K-W Chamber of Commerce, with some members questioning whether the program should be expanded to include other health care disciplines or a community health care model that could help address needs in certain areas of the city.

City staff say the chambers program that showcases the area with its annual Family Medicine Resident Weekend has been integral to keeping the region in relatively good stead compared to other areas of the province when it comes to physician shortages.

The chambers program lead, Jenna Petker, said its responsible for helping recruit between 10 and 14 full- and part-time physicians to the area each year.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: New statistics show a growing number of people are without a family doctor in Waterloo Region and the Chronicle spoke to the Ontario College of Family Physicians about its call for action.

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WATERLOO  Four people broke into an apartment building in the university district and stole personal property in late April.

On April 21 at around 3:45 a.m., people broke into a building on Sunview Street, near University Avenue West and Albert Street.

Waterloo Regional Police are asking for the publics help in identifying the four people involved.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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WATERLOO REGION  A second tentative agreement has been reached between Grand River Transit workers and the Region of Waterloo.

A ratification vote is set for Tuesday with GRT workers. Once the vote is ratified, the strike will end.

Unifor Local 4304 and regional representatives met over the weekend to hammer out an agreement after transit workers walked off the job last Monday.

Last weekend, the union bargaining committee reached a tentative agreement but workers rejected it, triggering a strike.

Neither the union nor the region have specified the main issues that led to the strike. The union has said only that wages and scheduling are key issues.

The weeklong strike shut down conventional bus service, as well as Mobility Plus buses. Ion trains are still running; rail transit is operated by another company.

Local 4304 represents more than 650 transit drivers and nearly 90 skilled trade and support workers.

GRT had its first strike in 2020. About 730 GRT drivers, dispatchers, mechanics and service attendants were off the job for 11 days.

That agreement gave mechanics a $3-an-hour increase, and a $2.25-an-hour increase for part-time employees over the life of the contract. It also included improved language on surveillance camera use, wage increases each year of the collective agreement and equalization of pay for part-time workers doing the same work as full-time workers.

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Many online believe the giant phallus was mown into the lawn, while others believe it could be chemicals that were placed in the shape to discolour the grass.
UAVs used to enhance surveillance

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IMPHAL, May 8 (PIB) : Over 100 columns of Army and Assam Rifles have been working tirelessly for more than 96 hours in order to significantly enhance the surveillance capability in Manipur with intensified employment of aviation assets.

It is worth noting that Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and helicopters have been pressed into action for surveillance not only in hinterland but also along the Indo-Myanmar border, a press release has informed.

It further highlighted the importance of the use of third dimension in modern military warfare as it gives security forces a major edge to not only carry out effective surveillance of anti-national elements but also to target elements that may harm important installations.

Employment of these assets are giving a major fillip to the effectiveness of Army and Assam Rifles. Its success is evident on ground in Manipur not only in hinterland but also for domination of Indo-Myanmar border to prevent any attempts by insurgent groups staying in various camps, the release added.


Former Hamilton Mayor Bob Wade became the first mayor of the new city in 2000 during a contentious moment for the entire municipality.

After years of fighting the provincial government and the former City of Hamilton to prevent amalgamation, Wade, the former Ancaster mayor for 16 years, was now in charge of not only the angry suburban communities but also a skeptical and recalcitrant Hamilton.

Wade knew when he pulled off a major political upset by defeating longtime Hamilton mayor Bob Morrow and Ward 5 Alderman Fred Eisenberger that his first major job was to unite all five former suburban municipalities so they could work with Hamilton on behalf of the community.

While there was still strong anti-amalgamation sentiment within the various suburban communities, Wade understood there was no going back.

There isnt enough money in this city to do that, Wade said in a 2018 interview.

Wade said 15 years after he last served as mayor that Ancaster benefited from amalgamation, with an improved downtown, a new splash pad, a renovated Ancaster Senior Achievement Centre, infrastructure work and the new Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre.

Former Liberal MPP Ted McMeekin, who was also the last mayor of Flamborough before amalgamation, also fought side-by-side with Wade to prevent amalgamation. But in the end, both knew continuing to fight against the province and Hamilton was counterproductive.

He cared for his community, said McMeekin, who also served on Hamilton-Wentworth Regional Council at the time from 1994-2000. He epitomized class and grace. He was one of the finest gentlemen who I have ever worked with. He was as honest as the day is long.

Because of Wades efforts over those first three years in office, it eventually led 20 years later to a council seeing its membership completely overhauled in the 2022 municipal election with 10 new members talking about the future of the city.

Bob would have been pleased to see how resolute and healthy we have become, said McMeekin.

Wade passed away in an Ancaster nursing home on May 4 at age 89. No cause of death was provided.

While current Ancaster Coun. Craig Cassar didnt know Wade, he understood the impact of the former mayors influence on the community.

He was at the right place (to be the first mayor of the amalgamated city), said Cassar, who was first elected in 2022.

He was a great leader for doing that. I have a lot of respect for him.

Mountain Coun. Tom Jackson, who served with Wade on council, said Wade laid the foundation to keep this city moving forward and never looking back.

Jackson, who was first elected in 1988, said the former suburban municipalities were skeptical and suspicious about joining Hamilton.

But with Bobs victory, he brought enormous credibility to the new council table.

Ed Datta, one of Wades staff members during those crucial first years in office, saw first-hand how the former Ancaster mayor managed the Herculean task ahead of him.

He built a better community by seeking consensus rather than conflict. He put the interest of his constituents first."

Bob was the best boss I ever had. He was caring, compassionate, a man of God and I loved every minute I spent with him. I loved him dearly and will miss him tremendously, said Datta.

When, at the time, the politically unknown David Sweet was thinking about running for the federal riding of Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale in 2006, he was told by John Voortman, who passed away in 2021, he needed to talk to Bob Wade. By this time, Wade had retired from politics, but Sweet listened to the advice and met with the former mayor at the Egg and I restaurant.

He struck me as a principled man at the time, and I was right over the years, said Sweet, who would go on to be a Conservative MP until 2021.

I thought, thats the guy I want to be. He had such a level of kindness and character. He didnt say a bad thing about anybody.

Wade, who was always bolstered by his wife Ida by his side, and his three daughters, had been grounded in his politics, in his work with London Life Insurance, and in his community when he relocated from Exeter to Ancaster in 1960, with his church, Ryerson United Church.

Bob was a faithful member of the church, said Brad Kuhn, a friend, former councillor of the Township of Ancaster and church member.

Kuhn said Wade eagerly took various leadership roles at the church, including Church Council Choir and chairperson of the board of trustees to serve the community.

Bobs leadership at the church was significant, said Kuhn. Bobs faith was very important to him. He will be missed greatly.

There will be a private ceremony for his family, but a celebration of life is expected to be held later in the spring for Wade at the Robert E. Wade Community Park in Ancaster.

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Mountain resident, former Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion director and diversity activist Kojo Damptey, on the central Mountain where the majority of the more than 30 hate/bias occurrences in the upper city took place in 2022.



Kojo Damptey says the police numbers do not go far enough.

The Mountain resident, former Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion director and diversity activist said a deeper dive is needed with respect to the recently released 2022 Hate/Bias Statistical Report by the Hamilton Police Service.

Is it related to graffiti, is it related to specific language, racial slurs, homophobic slurs? Damptey said. Then now, we are actually start talking about prevention because if you just say this incident happened, we investigated, we couldnt do anything that doesnt help with prevention.

The police report noted there were 174 hate/bias occurrences reported to the Hamilton Police Service last year, an increase of 61 per cent from 2021.

Broken down further, the report states there were 26 hate/bias crimes reported and 148 incidents with hate/bias overtones.

One of the reasons we saw an increase in reporting this year is because of increased awareness, said Detective Fabiano Mendes with the police Hate Crime Unit who prepared the report.

Mendes noted a hate crime case review team comprised of members of the citys diverse community will review the actual occurrences and come up with solutions.

The report says a hate/bias crime is any criminal offence where there is evidence to prove that the offence was motivated because of a bias or prejudice based on the victims race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any similar factor.

A hate/bias overtone, the report says, involves similar bias, but these incidents cannot be proven to have been motivated because of the persons bias/prejudice toward the victim, but include some type of hateful overtone.

The report says most occurrences were directly related to racial bias, religion and sexual orientation, primarily against the Black community, Jewish community and the 2S&LGBTQIA community.

While most of the events occurred in the lower city, east of the Red Hill Parkway, a map on page 10 of the report shows more than 30 occurrences on the Mountain, with the majority taking place just north of the Linc and east of Upper James.

Its troubling and concerning, Damptey said. I would even go further and say thats a low estimation of the actual numbers.

The report acknowledges that not all incidents are reported to police and that 53.8 per cent of all hate crimes reported to police last year were cleared by arrest, diversion, or the victim did not wish to proceed with charges.

Unfortunately, we were not able to find suspects for the other occurrences, Mendes said. The investigations are still ongoing.

Gustavo Rymberg, CEO of the Hamilton Jewish Federation, said he believes when the 2023 hate/bias stats are released next year, they will top the 2022 numbers.

For a number of organizations, its a very difficult time, because were facing this amount of hate and division and discrimination and ignorance and lack of knowledge, Rymberg said. Theres a lot of legislation that has to change for us to comate the antisemitism and discrimination.

He noted a person who openly peddled antisemitism and white supremacy was allowed to run for mayor of Hamilton twice and received nearly 900 votes in 2022.

Every week, I receive at least one or two phone calls for an incident that is happening on the street, for an incident that is happening in the schools, for an incident that is happening in a public space or happening in universities, its constant. Rymberg said,

Javid Mirza, president of the Muslim Association of Hamilton, says hate and bias remain an issue for many within the citys Islamic community.

Were asking people to report as much as they can so we can understand the nature of this stuff, Mirza said.

The Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion and the Hamilton Anti-Racism Resource Centre have created an online platform WeSupportHamilton.ca for reporting hate in the city.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: Hamilton Community News looks at the 2022 Hate/Bias Statistical report by the Hamilton Police Service with a focus on Hamilton Mountain.

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The Hamilton Fire Department rescued two hikers at Tew Falls after one fell Sunday night.

Emergency services were called to the area inside Spencer Gorge Conservation Area just before 10:30 p.m. for a rope rescue of two hikers, said Shawn De Jager, assistant deputy fire chief.

One of the hikers fell and was hurt, he said. The second hiker was standing by the injured hiker and needed help getting back to the trail.

Firefighters set up a full high angle rope rescue and lifted the two hikers to the top. The injured persons care was transferred to Hamilton paramedics and Hamilton police helped the second hiker back to their car.

Reach The Spectator newsroom at 905-526-3420 or news@thespec.com

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GENEVA (AP)  The World Health Organization said Friday that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the devastating coronavirus pandemic that triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies and killed millions of people worldwide.

The announcement, made more than three years after WHO declared the coronavirus an international crisis, offers some relief, if not an ending, to a pandemic that stirred fear and suspicion, hand-wringing and finger-pointing across the globe.

The U.N. health agencys officials said that even though the emergency phase was over, the pandemic hasnt finished, noting recent spikes in cases in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

WHO says thousands of people are still dying from the virus every week, and millions of others are suffering from debilitating, long-term effects.

Its with great hope that I declare COVID-19 over as a global health emergency, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

That does not mean COVID-19 is over as a global health threat, he said, warning that new variants could yet emerge. Tedros noted that while the official COVID-19 death toll was 7 million, the real figure was estimated to be at least 20 million.

Tedros said the pandemic had been on a downward trend for more than a year, acknowledging that most countries have already returned to life before COVID-19.

He bemoaned the damage that COVID-19 had done to the global community, saying the pandemic had shattered businesses, exacerbated political divisions, led to the spread of misinformation and plunged millions into poverty.

The political fallout in some countries was swift and unforgiving. Some pundits say missteps by President Donald Trump in his administrations response to the pandemic had a role in his losing reelection bid in 2020. The United States saw the deadliest outbreak anywhere in the world  where more than 1 million people died across the country.

Dr. Michael Ryan, WHOs emergencies chief, said it was incumbent on heads of states and other leaders to negotiate a wide-ranging pandemic treaty to decide how future health threats should be faced.

Ryan said that some of the scenes witnessed during COVID-19, when people resorted to bartering for oxygen canisters, fought to get into emergency rooms and died in parking lots because they couldnt get treated, must never be repeated.

When the U.N. health agency first declared the coronavirus to be an international crisis on Jan. 30, 2020, it hadnt yet been named COVID-19 and there were no major outbreaks beyond China.

More than three years later, the virus has caused an estimated 764 million cases globally and about 5 billion people have received at least one dose of vaccine.

In the U.S., the public health emergency declaration made regarding COVID-19 is set to expire on May 11, when wide-ranging measures to support the pandemic response, including vaccine mandates, will end. Many other countries, including Germany, France and Britain, dropped most of their provisions against the pandemic last year.

When Tedros declared COVID-19 to be an emergency in 2020, he said his greatest fear was the virus potential to spread in countries with weak health systems.

In fact, some of the countries that suffered the worst COVID-19 death tolls were previously judged to be the best-prepared for a pandemic, including the U.S. and Britain. According to WHO data, the number of deaths reported in Africa account for just 3% of the global total.

WHO doesnt declare pandemics, but first used the term to describe the outbreak in March 2020, when the virus had spread to every continent except Antarctica, long after many other scientists had said a pandemic was already underway.

WHO is the only agency mandated to coordinate the worlds response to acute health threats, but the organization faltered repeatedly as the coronavirus unfolded.

In January 2020, WHO publicly applauded China for its supposed speedy and transparent response, even though recordings of private meetings obtained by The Associated Press showed top officials were frustrated at the countrys lack of cooperation.

WHO also recommended against mask-wearing for the public for months, a mistake many health officials say cost lives.

Numerous scientists also slammed WHOs reluctance to acknowledge that COVID-19 was frequently spread in the air and by people without symptoms, criticizing the agencys lack of strong guidance to prevent such exposure.

Tedros was a vociferous critic of rich countries who hoarded the limited supplies of COVID-19 vaccines, warning that the world was on the brink of a catastrophic moral failure by failing to share shots with poor countries.

Most recently, WHO has struggled to investigate the origins of the coronavirus, a challenging scientific endeavour that has also become politically fraught.

After a weeks-long visit to China, WHO released a report in 2021 concluding that COVID-19 most likely jumped into humans from animals, dismissing the possibility that it originated in a lab as extremely unlikely.

But the U.N. agency backtracked the following year, saying key pieces of data were still missing and that it was premature to rule out that COVID-19 might have ties to a lab.

Mark Woolhouse, an infectious diseases professor at the University of Edinburgh, described COVID-19 as a once-in-a-lifetime disaster and said that broad immunity against the virus meant we were now in a new phase of the outbreak.

Woolhouse noted there had also been significant criticism of WHOs pandemic response, in addition to those of its member countries and others.

He lamented that the global community missed numerous chances to stop the coronavirus earlier, in addition to causing much self-inflicted harm by shutting down much of society.

Given the ever-present threat of another pandemic, lessons need to be learned, he said.

___

Maria Cheng reported from London.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with his Kyrgyz counterpart Sadyr Japarov, who is currently in Moscow with an official visit, on May 8, Trend reports citing TASS.

"The sides plan to discuss the current state and perspectives of the mutually beneficial cooperation in trade and economy, as well as cultural and humanitarian areas, current issues of further strengthening of Russian-Kyrgyz relations of strategic partnership and alliance - in particular, with consideration of Russias presidency in the Eurasian Economic Union and Kyrgyzstans presidency in the Commonwealth of Independent States in 2023," the Kremlin press office said.

Deputy Head of the Kyrgyz Presidential Administrations Foreign Policy Department Muratbek Azymbakiyev confirmed that "the leaders will discuss pressing issue of bilateral and multilateral agenda, as well as perspectives of further mutually beneficial cooperation."

According to the official, the Kyrgyz President also plans to meet with "other Russian Federation officials." Japarov will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Zheenbek Kulubayev, Security Council Secretary Marat Imankulov and Interior Minister Ulan Niyazbekov.
ORILLIA, Ont. - Close friends and family of Gordon Lightfoot came together for a small, private funeral on Monday held at the Orillia, Ont. church where he was once a choir boy.

A group of roughly 50 people assembled inside St. Pauls United Church for the nearly two-hour ceremony that included a choir performance accompanied by an organ.

Underneath the virtually cloudless sunny sky, the local community went about the day as any other, with some doing yard work and a few curious onlookers wandering past the church to observe the activity.

One neighbour set up a lawn chair outside his house to see if Canadian rock royalty the likes of Joni Mitchell and Neil Young might pull up.

They didnt seem to, however. Most of the visible mourners appeared to be Lightfoots extended family, band mates and others who worked with him over the years.

After the ceremony finished, Lightfoots casket was loaded into a hearse and left the church grounds as a small crowd of people gathered to observe the proceedings from across the street.

Lightfoot is to be laid to rest alongside his parents at St. Andrews and St. James Cemetery.

On Sunday, a public visitation was held at St. Pauls United Church that drew more than 2,400 people, according to estimates from security for the event.

Elsewhere, a book of condolences could also be signed at Torontos Massey Hall, a venue where Lightfoot frequently performed throughout his career.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

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LAMEQUE, N.B. - The deaths of two New Brunswick fishermen on the first day of the lobster season are evoking powerful memories of past tragedies on the water for a singer who lives on the Acadian peninsula.

Eugene Beaudin, 58, and his great-nephew, Normand Beaudin, 33, fell off their fishing boat on Saturday and died in the water off Miscou Island, N.B., which juts into the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

After learning of their deaths, Sandra Le Couteur, a recording artist from Lameque Island, N.B., just south of Miscou, posted a haunting, French ballad she recorded in 2020 about the loss of three other New Brunswick fishermen  an uncle and two nephews  in 1988. Their bodies, she said, are buried in the cemetery by the lighthouse on Miscou Island.

Titled Le Detroit de Cabot, or The Cabot Strait in English, its lyrics describe a wife looking out a sea with her rosary in hand, awaiting the crews return, her heart in quarantine.

Reached by telephone at her home, Le Couteur said in an interview that, like many residents of the Acadian peninsula, she is deeply saddened by the loss of Eugene and Normand. Like Le Couteur, the two lobster fishermen lived on Lameque Island.

When I was small, when my father left for lobster fishing  we were always afraid that something would happen. When I heard the news (about the two men) I was really affected, she said in an interview Monday.

It was just a huge shock.

Its hard for families to live with the dangers of fishing, she said. Its like a sword of Damocles over the heads of these families. And the majority of them fish.

The 66-year-old artist said the song was written for her by Wilfred LeBouthillier, a fisherman from the Acadian Peninsula who became a singer himself.

She said that on Lameque Island everyone knows each other. In her instance, Eugene Beaudin is her sisters brother-in-law. (Eugene) loved to fish. He was kind. He never bothered anyone. They were both good men, she said.

RCMP Cpl. Sylvain Bergeron said the captain of the boat, Robert Beaudin  who is related to the two dead men  survived the mishap and has spoken to the Mounties about what occurred, and while details of how the fishermen fell in the water remain unclear, no foul play is suspected.

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada said in a news release Monday it would deploy a team of investigators to assess whether an investigation would be held into the fatal incident on the Tracy Dawn boat.

Le Couteur said the fishing season continues, as the fishermen must set their traps and retrieve them before the arrival of the endangered right whales.

Its the early days of the fishing season. All the fishers go out and they have to do it quickly before the right whales arrive. Because when they do, they shut down the fishing season because the whales are near extinction. Its a race against the clock, she said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

 By Michael Tutton in Halifax.

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LA LOCHE, Sask. - Evacuation orders for several communities in northern Saskatchewan have been lifted after residents were forced to flee due to wildfires.

Those who live in Saulteaux First Nation, La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation were told on Sunday they were allowed to return to their homes because the fires have been contained.

Theyre feeling relief and are happy to be home, La Loche Mayor Georgina Jolibois said on Monday. Now, hopefully, we dont have to deal with another situation. Fires are unpredictable, but Im pleased that people are here.

Fires near the Saulteaux First Nation had grown to 5,000 hectares and the fires near La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation were 266 hectares.

More than 200 people from the communities left their homes last week.

Jolibois said no homes have been severely damaged, though some shacks used for storing goods and equipment have burned down.

It came very close to burning some houses, she said. With quick action, decision-making and sending in resources, properties were saved. There were hardworking people who made sure the fire did not destroy homes.

She said people began making their way back to the community on Sunday and its expected more will return throughout the week.

The community pulled together and we did a fantastic job, Jolibois said. The resources that we got from the province made a huge difference.

She said crews will continue to monitor hot spots to help prevent another fire from flaring up.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency has said all fires burning in the province are caused by humans and would be investigated.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

 By Jeremy Simes in Regina.

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GTA transit riders are newly frustrated with Metrolinx after the agency changed a key GO Transit bus route that has caused their commute times to balloon.

Among a slew of service changes Metrolinx announced last month was the removal of a direct bus corridor between Milton, Mississauga and Torontos Union Station. It has prompted an outcry from commuters and spurred Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie to get involved.

Citing traffic on the Gardiner Expressway, the provincial transit agency on April 8 adjusted GO Transits Bus Route 21  which ran directly between Milton and Torontos Union Station, with a stop in Mississauga  to now connect with stations along the Lakeshore West GO train line. This means passengers must transfer to get to downtown Toronto, with no direct service between Mississauga and Union Station.

At the same time, Metrolinx boosted service on some busy bus routes, introduced a new transit route connecting Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph and Hamilton, and replaced some trains with buses.

The change to the Route 21 bus has caused the commute time for some riders to double, forcing them to choose between spending hours more on transit or adjusting their lifestyle to avoid a lengthy commute.

Siddharth Barta used to enjoy the two days a week hed work from his office. Hes a project manager with a big team, and working from home is not as efficient, he said.

But since Metrolinx changed the Route 21 bus, getting to his office in Mississauga from his home near Torontos St. Lawrence Market takes roughly two hours each way  twice as long as it did before.

I realized what the impact was going to be, and it was just disastrous, Barta said.

Hes made special arrangements with his boss so he can work fully by remote  though its not his preference. Hes looking into getting a car.

Milton resident Reva Greeves called the route change a huge inconvenience.

Greeves used to take the previous, direct Route 21 bus in the evenings and it would take roughly an hour and 10 minutes to get home. Now, after the changes, she must take a train from Union Station to Oakville GO, and transfer to a bus to get home to Milton  adding up to 45 minutes to her commute.

I feel like people who live in Milton really get the short end of the stick when it comes to transit, she said.

The city wants people to use transit more instead of driving so theres less congestion on the highways but theyre not making it very easy for people to do that.

In a statement, Metrolinx said it changed the route to improve reliability after the bus had been delayed due to traffic downtown.

Last summer, traffic congestion on the Gardiner Expressway significantly impacted travel times for customers using GO Bus Route 21, in many cases by over 40 minutes, the transit agency said.

Our team consistently analyzes ridership and travel patterns, and we make modifications to our services keeping reliability and customer journey times in mind. We will continue to monitor this route closely.

The impact has already prompted a response from Mississaugas mayor. On April 11, Mayor Bonnie Crombie wrote a letter to Metrolinx CEO Phil Verster, flagging concerns about service cuts to the direct Milton-Mississauga-Union route.

We are already hearing complaints from residents and commuters that this change will add up to one hour of travel on their commute, Crombie wrote. Those who commute to our city from work are considering whether or not coming into the office is worth their time and are said to be considering fully remote work instead.

As we work to rebuild our economy across the GTHA and encourage more people to use transit through fare integration and other measures, we need to ensure any changes to service levels do not disproportionately impact those who rely on it the most, Crombie added.

On Friday, Crombies chief of staff confirmed her office is working on securing a meeting between Crombie and Verster on the matter.

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Four Toronto bars have earned bragging rights after making the list of North Americas 50 best bars.

The list is produced by UK-based food media company William Reed, which helms rankings for the best in food and drink.

Torontos Civil Liberties, in the Christie Pits neighbourhood, came in at number 12, making it the citys highest-ranking bar on the list.

It also took home an award for the best bar in Canada at an awards ceremony held in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico last Thursday.

We were absolutely honoured (to win), co-owner Nick Kennedy said.

Civil Liberties doesnt actually have a cocktail menu. Instead, bartenders work with guests to concoct their perfect drink.

Its our goal to be ambassadors to cocktails, not gatekeepers, Kennedy said.

Other winners include Little Italys Bar Pompette at number 15, Mother in Trinity-Bellwoods at 37 and Dundas Wests Bar Mordecai at 43.

Bar Pompette won a separate award as the new entry with the highest position on the list at number 15.

The cocktail bar is owned by French expatriates and restaurateurs who also operate a restaurant and bakery under the Pompette name.

Seven Canadian bars made the list overall, with all located in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.

Vancouvers Botanist Bar won a separate award honouring its hospitality.

Four of the seven Canadian bars are located in Toronto, and Kennedy credited them with changing the definition of what a cocktail bar could be.

When we opened Civil in 2014, cocktail bars and all bars were very dark places for moody people that had moody drinks. And if you look at the list of people who are here, these are really bright, light, very inclusive bars, he said.

The best bar in North America, according to the list, is New York Citys Double Chicken Please, which is known for pairing its drink menu with chicken sandwiches.

In all, 27 American, 15 Mexican, seven Canadian and one Caribbean bar made the list.

The winners are determined via votes from a gender-balanced panel of 260 industry experts, including bartenders and cocktail aficionados, according to 50 Bests website.

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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Ottawa is renewing its commitment to get illegal guns off the streets and curb gang crime, federal public safety minister Marco Mendicino announced in Mississauga on Monday.

Speaking to a gathering of police leaders, community agencies heads and provincial politicians, Mendicino said the federal government is pledging $390 million over the next five years to stop guns at the border, boost law enforcements ability to fight crime and strengthen underfunded social intervention programs, nearly doubling an initial five-year commitment first made in 2017.

Ontario is set to receive about $120 million of the total, to be allocated under the Guns and Gangs Actions Fund, Mendicino said.

We are absolutely focused on going after criminals who use illegal guns to terrorize our communities, he said, adding that the plan focuses on three things: strong borders, strong laws and enforcement, and strong prevention.

Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Durraiappah, who also heads the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, said the funding will go a long way toward filling the growing gaps being identified by police agencies across Ontario.

Clearly, the ability to have the presence of firearms in the hands of gang members is a real legitimate problem, Durraiappah said during Mondays news conference at Peel Regional Police headquarters.

A small amount of people are responsible for a large amount of harm. Our ability to mitigate that is quite important.

The Ontario allocation will be used for intervention and enforcement and will also go toward the root causes of crime, Mendicino said, specifically noting initiatives that cater to youth who are at risk of joining gangs and provide exit strategies, such as the Indigenous Youth Gang Prevention and Intervention Program.

Marcell Wilson, the co-founder of One By One, which is made up of ex-gang members working to prevent youth from taking the same path, said hes cautiously optimistic that the federal promise will lead to sustainable funding for programs like his.

Weve heard a lot of similar announcements, but what were not seeing is it really getting to that ground level, Wilson told the Star.

He worries that agencies that are actually on the ground, that have the connection with the community are actually being left out. When we do see them get funding its in increments.

Money for enforcement work is important, he said, but you also need to support the grassroots organizations who do the work in our communities to help protect young people who are most at risk.

Mendicino noted that the funding, expected to flow over five years, comes at an especially difficult time for the policing community, which has seen several officers killed in recent months.

Its a sober reminder, he said.

Mendicino said the government recently met with and is collaborating with authorities south of the border to better trace and ebb the flow of illegal guns coming into Canada.

We have our work cut out for us, he said.

Meanwhile, Ottawa continues to push for legislation aimed at a national ban on assault-style firearms. These are guns that were designed for a battlefield and have no place in our communities, Mendicino said.

Minister of the Solicitor General Michael Kerzner also noted that bail reform, aimed at improving bail compliance and clamping down on repeat dangerous offenders, is on the agenda for both the federal and provincial governments.

This is urgent and essential, he said.

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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Accused mobster Vincenzo (Jimmy) DeMaria told a GTA deportation hearing he knows nothing of the inner workings of the Ndrangheta strain of the Mafia or any other organized crime group.

DeMaria, 69, a baker, financial services executive and convicted killer, faces deportation to his birthplace of Italy.

He came to the GTA when he was just nine months old but never took out citizenship and is only a permanent resident of Canada.

DeMaria said he just knows organized crime he has read in newspapers. He admitted he knows some people whose names have appeared in news accounts, with names like Commisso and Figliomeni.

Ive actually seen my name, he said, briefly laughing.

For the most part, he was serious and businesslike throughout the hearing.

De Maria didnt laugh when he spoke of a murder that sent him to prison for a decade and made him a lifetime parolee.

He said he shot Vincenzo Figliomeni to death on April 22, 1981, at his College Street fruit business because he feared for his life.

He said that Figliomeni owed him $2,000 and lunged at him with a knife.

Ill always maintain that he attacked me with a knife and I defended myself, DeMaria testified at the deportation hearing.

DeMaria said that he had a social relationship of sorts with the victim  we were friends, acquaintances, friends, he said  and added that the killing still haunts him.

Its remorse, DeMaria said. Im going to have that for the rest of my life.

He said he found the pistol he used to kill Figliomeni in the basement of a pool hall a year before the shooting and hid it in an alley.

DeMaria said that he and Figliomeni were originally from the same area in the southern Italian province of Calabria, and that there is extensive intermarriage between their two families.

DeMaria said that he has no relationship with convicted Ndrangheta member Giuseppe Ursino, who told authorities that DeMaria gained power when he killed Figliomeni.

Thats insane, DeMaria told the deportation hearing, saying he wouldnt know Ursino if Ursino appeared in front of him.

DeMaria added he hasnt communicated with his brother Giuseppe (Joe) DeMaria for the past three years and also hasnt talked in years with his cousin Nicola Cortesse.

The hearing heard that his brother Joe is wanted by Italian authorities on organized crime association charges while Cortesse did prison time for break-and-enter and theft convictions.

DeMaria said hes a distant relative of Cosimo Figliomeni of York Region, who was accused by Italian authorities in 2009 of criminal associations.

DeMaria said that he also knows brothers Cosimo Elia Commisso and Rocco Remo Commiso, both of York Region, as they are all from Siderno Marina in southern Italy.

He said he also knew the Commissos from York Region social events and Millhaven Penitentiary in the early 1980s, after the brothers were convicted of several offenses, including three counts of conspiracy to commit murder.

He said he didnt talk about crime with the Commisso brothers while behind bars.

You dont ask people about charges inside the (penitentiaries), he said. It just isnt done.

The hearing continues.

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One of the nice side effects of voting is polling stations are often located in neighbourhood buildings we might not otherwise have a chance to enter, like schools. Its a brief reminder that as Toronto and the rest of Canada grew, we built hundreds of solid, often beautiful and architecturally unique schools that have become foundations of our communities.

Even for people without kids, schools are local landmarks that help define our neighbourhoods. A tremendous amount of money, material and energy went into building them, so the legislation the Ford government tabled in April that would give the province more control over school boards and buildings is concerning.

Apart from the curriculum issues involved, this move would centralize power and give the province a greater role in selling off surplus school properties and use standardized designs and prefabricated construction for new ones, something they first urged school boards to do in 2019.

Selling off schools is a short-sighted move as cities grow and change rapidly. Planning is often quite behind: there are signs across the city at construction sites warning prospective residents that local schools might be full. Rather than close, sell off and even destroy perfectly good schools, they can have other public uses in the meantime, like serving as community centres or even rented out while keeping ownership public. In a climate crisis, big teardowns are an obscene waste of embodied energy and once the building and land is gone, its gone forever.

As for school architecture in Ontario, you could fill a big, expensive coffee table book (or an entire issue of the Toronto Star) with photos of schools in a variety of styles, often designed by in-house architects and sometimes winning prizes. The creation of modern Ontario was a sustained and deliberate effort for well over a century, and theres a great legacy of that across the province, one that has often been neglected and allowed to decline nor given heritage status.

Many school trustees will argue underfunding has caused this, which is partially true, but theres also a culture of not appreciating or respecting this impressive and valuable built legacy within school boards. In Toronto weve recently lost unique schools like Bloor Collegiate and Davisville Junior Public School to teardowns. Still, theres a lot to appreciate in this city.

For the classic look, Jarvis Collegiate downtown and Northern Secondary School on Mount Pleasant, north of Eglinton, are proper old-school schools still doing what they were designed to do just fine. Jarvis is one of the oldest in the province, established in 1807, with the current gothic revival building dating to 1922. Northern was completed in 1930.

Toronto expanded a great deal after the Second World War, and there are many mid-century beauties from the era. On either side of the Prince Edward Viaduct, on the cusp of the Don Valley, are the modern landmarks of Rosedale Heights School of the Arts and the City Adult Learning Centre, both from 1963. Rosedale was originally Castle Frank High School, and even has a conservatory while the CALC, formerly the Parkway Vocational School, has impressive covered walkways and valley views. These schools prove such buildings can have multiple lives.

One of the most exquisite and prominent examples of this atomic age of school building is 1961s Lord Lansdowne Junior Public School, the colourful, rocketship-cool crown building on the west side of Spadina Crescent. In 1962, its design architect Peter Pennington said, We hoped that by creating a school of unconventional shape and using bright colours and appointments with a certain flair, that we might stimulate the children  and the school staff as well.

More recent examples include York Humber High School on Emmett Avenue. This early 1990s school was designed in the postmodern style and is built into the side of the Humber River ravine. It can be entered at the top and bottom of the 11-metre escarpment and has a glorious, multi-level atrium inside.

In 2014, the Fraser Mustard Early Learning Academy opened next to one of North Americas biggest schools, Thorncliffe Park Public. No cookie cutter, this school was innovatively designed by Torontos Kohn Shinier Architects and includes a fun brick alphabet mural by artist Michal Lexie that spells hidden words.

These are all temples of learning. Standardizing design with lowest-bidder, value-engineered cheapness does not stimulate or inspire or value their crucial role in our society.

Pay attention to other schools you pass by and look closely. Some might have been treated poorly and not maintained as they should have, but also know architecture is like fashion: it comes in and out of popularity. Styles that are not in fashion now mean buildings go unloved and are at risk.

Remember, Victorian architecture went out of fashion in the mid-century and the city saw major teardowns that would be unfathomable today. Fashion is fickle. Style is forever, and so are our well-built, beautiful schools.

Shawn Micallef is a Toronto-based writer and a freelance contributing columnist for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @shawnmicallef

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Every morning before classes at Etobicoke School of the Arts, even before teachers arrive for the day, Jane Forrest paints. She paints at lunchtime, too. And when school lets out in the afternoon and friends are beckoning her to just hang out, the 17-year-old stays behind  to paint.

The Grade 12 student has spent countless hours in her schools art studio, driven by a creative passion, but also by her career goals. This academic year, Forrest applied to 62 post-secondary programs, each requiring a portfolio of her work.

I was willing to sacrifice other things so I could pursue my dream, said Forrest who commutes an hour from her Leslieville home to attend ESA at Royal York Road and the Queensway. There are a lot of high school moments I didnt really get to have because I was painting or applying to schools.

The sacrifice has paid off. Forrest has been offered $4.1 million in total scholarships  a record for a student from the specialized public secondary school.

Its kind of unreal to me, said Forrest who has been accepted everywhere including her top choice, the prestigious Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art near Manhattans East Village.

Forrests teacher Matthew Varey attributes her success to extraordinary dedication and commitment.

She did the most work, said Varey, who is head of contemporary art at ESA and creator of Portfolio Day, an annual art fair of sorts for graduating students that attracts recruiters from the worlds top art institutes, from New Yorks Parsons School of Design and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago to The Glasgow School of Art and Central Saint Martins in London. Now in its 13th year, Portfolio Day provides unprecedented exposure for students and their work, and it allows university hopefuls to build connections with the representatives who might have a say in their futures.

Jane is phenomenally talented and super passionate  lots of people are  but she really needs this and wants this, and she really wanted to see what was possible and what she was capable of, said Varey.

Inspired during trip to New York

Forrest, whose mom works in publishing and whose dad is a firefighter, always loved to make things from an early age but it was on a family trip to New York that it dawned on her that people could actually make art for a living. At age nine, she found herself at the Museum of Modern Art, in front of a huge Jackson Pollock painting. Her parents had moved on to the next gallery room, but she was mesmerized.

It was the first time I experienced a piece of work. Like, it wasnt a still image. It was an experience that turned into a memory that really changed my life, she said. I didnt know art could do that until I saw that piece of work, and even though I was a small child, I knew thats what I wanted to do.

Forrest heard about ESA through a friends brother who attended the school. As part of the application process for the contemporary art program, incoming Grade 9 students had to present 10 or more original pieces to a panel (Toronto District School Board has since done away with auditions or portfolios for its specialized arts schools). Forrest brought 40.

With no formal training other than some art lessons at summer camp, she was accepted into ESA.

In the four years since, Forrest has participated in four solo exhibits and 28 group ones. Her recent work is an ongoing series of oil on canvas paintings of buildings, mostly art studios in Toronto that are under threat of being turned into condos. Her art, she said, is a way of storytelling, using shadows and light, to preserve moments.

A lot of my work is about community, and its about people and places because that was something I felt like I was missing in my life, she said, referring to the isolation and separation she and others experienced during the pandemic. I use painting to fill that hole ... as a way to create that kind of connection.

Forrest has also curated six exhibitions, been published 35 times, has won 32 awards, given four talks and is planning ESAs first alumni art show for July at the Northern Contemporary Gallery on Roncesvalles Avenue.

She wants to maximize every opportunity, said Varey who has been teaching at ESA for the past 19 years, so anything that comes her way, shell say yes to and get involved.

That drew the attention of many schools. It was remarkable to see a student of her age so actively engaged in her community outside of the academic environment, said Rebecca Sack, program director of fine arts at University of the Arts in Philadelphia, which offered Forrest a full-tuition scholarship of $270,000. The fact that much of this was self-initiated was extremely impressive, and really separated her from her peers.

Began preparing in Grade 10

Like most students in the ESA contemporary art program, Forrest began preparing for Portfolio Day back in Grade 10 by contacting post-secondary schools and starting to build a collection of work.

Varey, a contemporary artist himself, conceived of Portfolio Day as a way for students to have meaningful conversations about themselves and their work with school representatives. The first Portfolio Day in 2010  held in person in November, although the last three have been online  attracted 24 schools and garnered $1.2 million in scholarships for ESA students. It has since grown, with interest from nearly 100 institutions and programs from around the world and up to, in a given year, $30 million in total scholarships.

One of the values of (Portfolio Day) was that the representatives would work with and fight for our students in terms of admissions, but more importantly, in terms of financial issues, said Varey. When it came time to receive scholarships or to ask for additional funding, wed have these people in our corner.

Forrest, for example, had been in conversations with an international admission counsellor from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) for more than two years before being recently offered a full-tuition scholarship of $270,000.

I have had a lot of time to get to know (Jane) and understand her practice, said MICAs Katie Zazenski. Cultivating these relationships is incredibly important as it helps us to better guide students and to know if theyre a good fit for our school.

Forrest made 150 pieces for Portfolio Day last November (most students make between 40 to 60), and it took from last August to March for her to complete her 62 post-secondary applications, including to 10 Canadian schools. She used a spreadsheet to keep it all straight.

Jane is one of the most prolific artists I have ever met, noted Zazenski.

Most schools demanded at least one essay; some up to six  Forrest reused and tweaked some essays but had to write about 40 original ones. And all schools asked for a portfolio of artwork, between 12 to 100 pieces, along with a resume, transcript and reference letters.

Two schools, including Cooper Union, required an at-home assignment where applicants were given a handful of prompts and had to create original pieces under a deadline. Each of those took Forrest 50 hours to complete.

There were moments when I was like, why am I doing this? said Forrest, who spent $700 on the whole process, often convincing American programs to waive their application fees.

Applied to 62 schools

But she has no regrets: her first big offer landed last November when she wasnt even yet done sending out applications. Tuition in the U.S. is much higher than in Canada, but American universities are known to be willing to match scholarships from competitors, which can drive up totals. Last week, a New Orleans high school student set a record after applying to 185 colleges and receiving $13.6 million in scholarship offers.

Varey said the advantage of Forrest applying to 62 schools is that for the rest of her life, shell have done enough practise in terms of emailing people, public speaking, having meetings, filling out forms.

The practical skill sets associated with the work these kids do will help them for the rest of their lives whether they go into art or not, he said, adding that half the graduating students from ESA go on to study things other than the arts.

Cooper Union, which has been part of Portfolio Day for many years, sent Forrest an offer in April: Of the 1,000 applicants each year, the 70 who are offered slots typically demonstrate strong conceptual abilities combined with the skill to execute on their ideas, Mark Campbell, vice president for enrolment, told the Star. Jane was no exception.

The school offered a scholarship of $128,000, half of her four-year tuition.

With richer offers in her pocket, Forrest faced a tough decision. But with a Google slide show of pros and cons, she canvassed family, friends and teachers for their advice  she even asked Oscar-winning director (Navalny) and ESA alumni Daniel Roher for his opinion during a recent school visit  and in the end Cooper Union won out. She will start her Bachelor of Fine Arts there in September.

Forrest is still negotiating housing and some work-study opportunities. She has made about $15,000 from selling her artwork and her parents will contribute what they had saved for a Canadian post-secondary education.

She said she owes so much to the people around her, but is particularly grateful for the opportunities she got at ESA. I really dont think any of this would have happened if I hadnt gone there.

Janet Hurley is a Toronto Star journalist and senior writer covering culture, education and societal trends. She is based in Toronto. Reach her via email: jhurley@thestar.ca

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They were supposed to be celebrating their daughters 21st birthday.

Instead, the Ramirez family in Colorado got a knock on the door on May 3 from an officer who told them police in Canada had arrested a suspect who they believe may be linked to the substance used by their daughter before her death. Noelle Skyler Ramirez died by suicide by ingesting sodium nitrite earlier this year.

She received the substance from a business in Mississauga, according to her father, David Ramirez, who sent a picture of the shipping label to the Star.

Its just like a nightmare all over again, Ramirez said. Im heartbroken, not only for ourselves, but for so many others.

Last week, Peel Regional Police charged Kenneth Law, of Mississauga, for allegedly selling the poisonous compound used by two Mississauga residents to end their own lives. They say their investigation now involves 1,200 packages allegedly sent to 40 countries. Families in the United States and United Kingdom are now looking for answers about the sale of the chemical online.

Law, 57, who faces two counts of counselling or aiding suicide, appeared briefly last week in a Brampton court, where his case was adjourned to Tuesday. The charges against him have not yet been tested in court.

Those speaking out include the family of 17-year-old Anthony Jones, of Detroit, and the brother of Gary Cooper, 41, a British man who died last July after ingesting sodium nitrite.

They are now calling on major online retailers to pull the lethal sodium nitrite from stores.

Sodium nitrite is a preservative salt used in deli-meat preparation, where very small amounts are used to cure the meat and give it a reddish colour.

However the salt is lethal in larger, purer concentrations, and researchers in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. have warned about a recent increase in deaths by suicide involving the substance.

It is a very toxic poison, Lee Cooper said, adding that the action against Law is the first domino, and I think there will be more to come because there are other sellers.

Cooper also wants police to probe a network of online forums that he says targets many vulnerable people like his brother, Gary, who struggled with depression. He said Gary accessed online forums where suicide is promoted and information about the means to carry it out is made readily available.

The widespread online availability of sodium nitrite has also placed the spotlight on e-commerce giants like Shopify and Amazon, which have served as a channel through which sellers of sodium nitrite can reach global buyers.

In a response to questions from the Star on Friday, Shopify, which has acknowledged that Law was once a merchant on its platform, stated that it takes concerns about the goods and services made available by merchants on its platform very seriously.

Once we were notified about a potential violation of our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), we immediately reviewed and took action to terminate all stores associated with Kenneth Law, a Shopify spokesperson wrote.

Several companies are believed to have been used by the suspect to allegedly sell the substance, including Imtime Cuisine, AmbuCa, Academic/ACademic, Escape Mode/escMode and ICemac, according to police.

Peel police and the Ontario Provincial Police warned residents to be wary of packages shipped from those businesses to individuals at-risk of self-harm in communities across Ontario.

The ongoing investigation has found that packages may have been sent to more than a dozen communities across the province, the OPP said in a press release. Authorities are encouraging anyone who has received a package from any of the listed companies to contact their local authorities.

Carrie Goldberg, the New York lawyer representing the family of Jones, who was diagnosed with Aspergers syndrome, a form of autism spectrum disorder, said that after the teen boy died after ingesting sodium nitrite allegedly purchased from the Imtime Cuisine website last February, the family sent a message to an email address attached to an invoice, allegedly linked to the suspected Ontario supplier, to take immediate action to stop selling it.

The website for Imtime Cuisine, which was connected to a Mississauga PO box, is no longer active. An archive of the site, retrieved in January, instructed buyers of sodium nitrite that due to the potential self-injury of underage customers, any orders would require photo ID submitted to an email address appearing to belong to Law.

Goldbergs co-counsel Naomi Leeds said Jones yelled for his mothers assistance immediately after ingesting the toxin. A panicking Jones disclosed to his mother the package of sodium nitrite he had ingested, Leeds said.

He wanted to be saved, Leeds said, adding that emergency responders and hospital staff were unable to prescribe an antidote quickly enough to remedy the toxicity of the then-unknown chemical compound.

Goldbergs firm has now launched lawsuits against Amazon for six families who are claiming damages for negligence linked to the sale of sodium nitrite. These allegations have not been proven in court.

Shes calling for online retailers like Amazon to pull the compound from all their digital shelves.

An Amazon spokesperson told the Star sodium nitrite is widely offered by retailers to preserve foods (such as meats and fish) and for use in laboratories as a reagent but unfortunately, like many products, it can be misused.

We have limited the sale of high concentrations of this product to Amazon Business customers, the spokesperson said. In marketplaces where Amazon Business is not yet available, we no longer sell high concentrations of this product in our stores.

Amazon has now globally restricted the sale of high concentrations of sodium nitrite to Amazon Business buyers. This policy came into effect on Oct. 20, 2022.

In the case of the Ramirez family, Noelle also had Aspergers syndrome and experienced mental health challenges including anxiety, suicidal ideation and self-harm.

The family said they tried for years to get her help through different doctors and medications. Ramirez said Noelle ordered the package online and lied about its contents; she claimed she was getting a copy of a birth certificate to travel.

David Ramirez said he believes his daughter learned about the substance on an online forum where people discuss suicide.

I have nightmares that if this person wouldnt have been there, or she wouldnt have found that website, or if this chemical wouldnt be so easy to get, my daughter would still be here, Ramirez said.

There has got to be some control  the easy access to these dangerous chemicals has to stop.

Ramirez said he wanted his daughter to be remembered for her intelligence and her generosity to others. Noelle had a passion for science and had memorized the periodic table of elements before she turned eight.

She was a wonderful, amazing person. She was incredibly smart. And she could have saved the world  nobody knows what she could done, Ramirez said.

If you are thinking of suicide or know someone who is, there is help. Resources are available online at www.crisisservicescanada.ca or you can connect to the national suicide prevention helpline at 1-833-456-4566, or the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.

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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Turkiye does not ask the United States to allow Ankara to return to the F-35 fighter jet program but just wants reimbursement of its money already paid for the project, the Turkish foreign minister has said, Trend reports citing Hurriyet Daily News.

We are not saying Lets go back to the F-35 [program] right now. We are saying Give us our money back. Because we produce our own national combat aircraft, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavushoglu said in a televised interview

We also want to improve relations with the U.S., and we have established the necessary mechanisms for this, the minister said but noted that the tensions rise between Ankara and Washington due to the latters support for the YPG group in Syria and hosting the FETO leader Fetullah Gulen in the U.S.

The U.S. has made various offers regarding the delivery of the Russian S-400s missile defense systems in Turkiye to third parties, Cavushoglu also said.

They made offers that directly concern our sovereignty, such as asking to give its control to them, or somewhere else. Where is our independence, our sovereignty?

The minister said one of the proposals made to Turkiye was to send the S-400s to Ukraine. They told us Will you send to Ukraine? We said no, he stated.

Turkiye was excluded from the joint F-35 fifth-generation fighter jet program due to its deployment of the Russian S-400 air defense system.
Toronto police have released images of a suspect wanted in connection with two stabbings near Kensington-Chinatown on Saturday that police said were unprovoked and random.

The assaults sent two women to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect and victims were not known to each other, Toronto police told the Star on Monday.

In a news release Monday, police said they have yet to identify the suspect wanted in the assault with a weapon investigations, but have released images of the person.

On Saturday, May 6 between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m., officers responded to two separate calls for stabbings on Spadina Avenue between Cecil Street and Dundas Street West area.

In the first instance, a 75-year-old woman was walking southbound on Spadina Avenue when the man approached her from behind and stabbed her on the left side of the neck with a sharp object, police from the 52 Division said.

Then, police from 14 Division reported that another woman was walking north on Spadina when the suspect stabbed her in the right arm with a sharp object.

In both instances, the suspect fled on foot southbound on Spadina.

Officers are asking anyone with information to contact police at 416-808-1400 or 416-808-5200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.

MH Mahdis Habibinia is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: mhabibinia@thestar.ca

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TTC workers have won back the right to strike.

An Ontario Superior Court judge ruled Monday that a 2011 law banning TTC employees from striking violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

I conclude, on the evidence, that the benefits that may be achieved by removing the right of TTC employees to strike do not outweigh the harm caused by the loss of the right to meaningful collective bargaining, Justice William Chalmers wrote.

This is a historic and important decision confirming the right to strike for working people, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113 wrote in a press release.

In 2011, the Ontario government under then-premier Dalton McGuinty enacted a law, called the TTC Act, which prohibited unionized TTC workers from striking, after city council under former mayor Rob Ford formally asked the province to designate the TTC an essential service.

City council had considered making the same request following a 36-hour TTC strike in 2008, but the motion was defeated by one vote.

In his decision, Chalmers found the TTC does not provide essential services and quashed the governments argument that the disruption of transit services in Toronto would threaten serious harm or endanger the life, personal safety or health of the whole, or part of the population.

Chalmers also rejected the provinces request to delay the implementation of the decision by one year, to March 31, 2024, when the unions contract is up, calling that request unreasonable.

A spokesperson for Premier Doug Fords office did not comment in time for deadline.

On behalf of the executive board of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 113, we are proud that today we won our fight to protect our members right to strike. This is not just a win for transit workers in Toronto. Its a win for all workers fighting unfair treatment, said Marvin Alfred, ATU Local 113 president, in a press release.

Were aware of this decision and are assessing any potential impacts going forward, TTC spokesperson Stuart Green wrote in a statement. Our commitment is, and always will be, to work with our union partners to reach a negotiated settlement at the bargaining table.

Local 113 was on strike in 1991, 1999, 2006 and 2008, resulting in about 12 days off the job in total. A city report from 2008 found that a TTC strike would cost the economy $50 million per day.

Correction  May, 9, 2023: This story has been revised. A previous version incorrectly stated that former Toronto Mayor David Miller tried to get a council motion passed in 2008 asking the province to declare the TTC an essential service. In fact, Miller opposed the motion.

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MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos president said Monday he will talk with U.S. President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programs to help stem the flow of migrants to the U.S. border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed U.S. authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the U.S. border.

Dont allow yourselves to be fooled, Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. Dont allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk.

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the U.S. government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people wont have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by U.S. Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

This really degrades them, morally, he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied.

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ISLAMABAD (AP)  The Pakistani president on Friday assured Beijings top diplomat that his country will boost security for all Chinese nationals working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

More recently, a Chinese national working on the Dasu Dam, a Chinese-funded hydropower project and the biggest of its kind in Pakistan, was arrested on blasphemy charges after an angry mob accused him of insulting Islam when he criticized a coworker for taking too much time to pray during working hours.

Pakistans controversial blasphemy laws carry the death penalty, and sometimes even a mere suggestion of blasphemy is enough to entice mobs to violence or lynching. The Chinese man was subsequently released under a court order but it remained unclear if he would face trial or be deported home.

President Arif Alvi pledged more security for Chinese workers during a meeting Friday with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. The two spoke ahead of a mini-summit on Saturday in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, during which Pakistans foreign minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, will host Qin and also Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Muttaqi also arrived in Islamabad on Friday ahead of the three-way meeting the next day. The gathering is also seen as an outreach to the Taliban by Pakistan, which has acted as a mediator with Afghanistans new rulers, and also China, which is eager to expand its influence in the region.

The Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for the harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since they seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war, particularly banning girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barring women from most jobs and public life.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes a multitude of mega projects such as road construction, power plants and agriculture. The package is a lifeline for Pakistans cash-strapped government, currently facing one of the worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Alvi and Qin on Friday reaffirmed their resolve to work together to promote regional peace and prosperity as well as jointly cope with external challenges. Alvi told the Chinese diplomat that Pakistan-China relations were rooted in mutual trust and understanding.

The Chinese minister was quoted in the statement as saying their nations were all-weather friends whose friendship was as solid as a rock.

This is the second time that Muttaqi, the Taliban official, is visiting Pakistan since the Taliban takeover. Pakistan has lately expressed concern over a surge in attacks across the country by the Pakistani Taliban  an independent militant group that is allied with and sheltered by the Afghan Taliban.

Islamabad has demanded from the Taliban in Kabul that they do more to rein in anti-Pakistani groups such as the Pakistani Taliban  also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP  which have stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

Muttaqi is also expected to discuss the issue of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan as well as the two nations border issues. In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and thousands of trucks carrying food and essential items.

After a Pakistani delegation travelled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week.

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JERUSALEM (AP)  The European Union said Monday that it canceled a diplomatic reception to prevent a radical ultranationalist Israeli minister from attending.

The act of protest by the EUs delegation to Israel against a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, the most religious and ultranationalist in the countrys history, could cause a diplomatic spat between Israel and the EU.

Relations already have been strained over Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power faction, serves as the national security minister and was assigned to represent the Israeli government at the EUs Europe Day event on Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said Sunday in a Kan radio interview that Ben-Gvir had been assigned by the government secretary to attend not as a representative of the Jewish Power party ... but to represent the government of Israel.

The EU said that it decided to cancel the diplomatic reception, as we do not want to offer a platform to someone whose views contradict the values the European Union stands for. The remainder of the public event would take place as scheduled.

Ben-Gvir is a former far-right activist and hard-line West Bank settler who has been convicted of incitement and support for a Jewish terror group. As the governments representative at the Europe Day event, Ben-Gvir would have addressed attendees.

Its a shame that the EU, which pretends to represent democratic values and multiculturalism, behaves with undiplomatic gagging, Ben-Gvir said.

Netanyahu returned to office in December at the head of a coalition that includes ultra-Orthodox parties and religious ultranationalists, including Ben-Gvirs small Jewish Power faction. The government has put expansion of West Bank settlements as a top priority. The EU, along with most of the international community, considers Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem illegal under international law and obstacles to peace with the Palestinians.

Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek all three areas for a future independent state.

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GLENWOOD, Wis. (AP)  A suspected drunken driver shot and killed a Wisconsin sheriffs deputy during a traffic stop before running into some nearby woods and killing himself, authorities said Sunday.

During a conversation about field sobriety tests, Jeremiah Johnson was evasive, drew a handgun and shot St. Croix County Deputy Kaitie Leising in Glenwood, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Minneapolis, the state Department of Justice said.

After being struck, Deputy Leising discharged her weapon three times, but none of the rounds hit Johnson before he fled to the nearby wooded area, the agency said.

People in another vehicle began lifesaving measures Saturday, but Leising, 29, was pronounced dead at a hospital.

An hour after the shooting, an officer heard a gunshot in the woods and saw Johnson, 34, fall to the ground, investigators said.

Leising was hired by St. Croix County in 2022 after she spent approximately two years working for the sheriffs office in Pennington County, South Dakota, St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson said.

Leisings body was being escorted by police back to Wisconsin from the medical examiners office in St. Paul, Minnesota.

We will miss her infectious smile and personality. She will be missed by all she touched, Knudson said.

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NEW YORK (AP)  The Republican leaders of two suburban counties have declared states of emergency in an effort to block a plan by New York Citys Democratic mayor to use their communities to house hundreds of international migrants seeking asylum in the U.S.

We are not equipped to humanely assist these individuals, said Rockland County Executive Ed Day, who over the weekend declared a state of emergency and has vowed to impose fines to stop the citys plan to put migrants up at hotels in the county for up to four months.

In nearby Orange County, County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus ordered all hotels, motels and short term rental facilities not to accept any migrants as he declared a state of emergency Monday.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan Friday to bus up to 300 single adult male migrants to the two counties north of the city on a voluntary basis.

Under the program, the men would be provided with meals, counseling and other services during their city-paid hotel stays. Adams said the program would help the city handle the more than 37,500 asylum seekers in the citys care.

The Democrat announced the plan as cities across the U.S. prepare for an increase in migrants seeking asylum when a pandemic-era policy that permitted the expulsion of many migrants ends. Officials anticipate that the end of the immigration limits under Title 42 of a 1944 public health law will mean more migrants trying to cross the southern border.

Adams has for months been criticizing Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, for offering free bus rides out of his state to migrants crossing the U.S. southern border. Thousands of those migrants have chosen to go to New York City.

The Adams administration has been using hotels within the city to house some migrants, mainly families with children. Plans to house others at sites including a cruise ship terminal and a beach parking lot in the Bronx have been scrapped.

Adams press secretary, Fabien Levy, said Monday that the city has cared for more than 61,000 migrants and we have done so largely without incident.

Levy said in a statement that the federal government should do more to help the city house migrants, but until they do, we need other elected officials around the state and country to do their part and emulate the humane and compassionate approach New York City has taken over the past year.

Republicans in the suburbs objected to being asked to take in the migrants.

Day said the mayors plan was the same as throwing people out to the middle of the ocean who cant swim and saying go to shore. It cant work.

Adams news release did not name the hotels where migrants would be sent, but Day and Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny said they had learned that the Armoni Inn and Suites in the hamlet of Orangeburg had been selected.

Kenny said housing migrants there for four months would violate the towns ordinance limiting hotel stays to 30 days.

Im sorry, Mr. Mayor, you dont trump our laws, said Kenny, who joined Day at a news conference in New City, the county seat. We have our own town code, so the town is prepared to commence legal action.

A message seeking comment was left with the Armoni.

Day announced a state of emergency Saturday that he said will prohibit other municipalities from bringing people to Rockland County and prohibit hotels and motels from housing immigrants without a license.

He said the state of emergency will remain in effect for at least 30 days and will be enforced through fines of $2,000 per migrant per day for the hotels and for any municipality that sends migrants to Rockland.

It was unclear what authority Rockland County would have to fine New York City for sending migrants there. A spokesperson for the citys legal department declined to comment.

Orange Countys executive, Neuhaus, said he had questions about who these immigrants are and remain concerned if they were properly vetted. He blamed the Federal governments failed immigration policy and inability to control the border.

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  Deputies shot and killed a man who opened fire on them during a traffic stop in South Carolina, authorities said.

Charleston County Deputy Evan Cubbage was hit three times by gunfire and was treated at a hospital and released, Sheriff Kristin Graziano said at a news conference.

Cubbage pulled over a vehicle about 3:45 p.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 17 near Ravenel, the sheriff said.

After briefly talking to the driver and passenger, Cubbage called for backup, and when the second deputy arrived, the passenger started shooting at them, Graziano said.

Both deputies fired back, and the passenger was killed, Graziano said. His name has not been released. Graziano didnt know what prompted the traffic stop.

We were very, very, very lucky today that these two deputies survived this incident, the sheriff said.

Cubbage spent about six hours in the hospital before he was released, authorities said.

The woman driving the car was detained. The State Law Enforcement Division, which is investigating, has not said whether she will face charges.

The traffic stop took place on a rural part of U.S. 17 about 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of Charleston.

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FARMVILLE, Va. (AP)  A second inmate who escaped from a Virginia jail last week was apprehended Monday after he showed up at a local university and asked for medical assistance.

The inmate, identified by jail officials as Bruce Callahan, was detained by Longwood police after he walked into Lancer Park  a 50-acre (20-hectare) residential community owned by Longwood University  and pulled an outdoor fire alarm, university officials said in a statement.

Callahan, who was injured and in poor health, surrendered to police and asked for medical treatment, the officials said. School officials did not disclose the nature of his injuries. Farmville police assisted in the arrest.

Callahan and another inmate escaped from the Piedmont Regional Jail in Farmville on April 30. The other inmate, 26-year-old Alder Marin-Sotelo, was captured in Mexico on Thursday. Marin-Sotelo is charged in the 2022 killing of a North Carolina sheriff's deputy. Callahan was being held on federal drug and weapons charges.

Both Marin-Sotelo and Callahan were federal detainees with no affiliations to the area, the sheriffs office said.

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EDMONTONThe wildfires ripping through northern Alberta have generated not only a human crisis but a political predicament.

How do political parties campaign during a general election when the province is under a state of emergency?

This is especially true for UCP Leader Danielle Smith, who is now facing the challenge of being both the leader of her partys campaign in a tight race and the leader of a government facing a crisis.

In crass political terms, this might be a pivotal moment for Smith.

The emergency gives her the opportunity to show herself as a competent leader. Opinion polls have so far indicated many Albertans simply dont see the gaffe-prone Smith as a trustworthy or capable premier.

In fact, she has proven to be so controversial there is growing speculation that if Smith ekes out a small majority government she will be forced out as party leader by an internal party revolt. Alberta conservatives dont just like a winner, they want a Winner with a capital W.

According to a litany of opinion polls, this nail-biter of an election campaign between the UCP and NDP could well end up with a small majority government.

Win or lose on May 29, Smith is going to be gone, says Duane Bratt, a prominent political scientist with Calgarys Mount Royal University. Youre hearing about people going door-knocking in Calgary saying, Vote for the party, not the leader. 

Smith is, to put it politely, a headline-generator. After winning a controversial and divisive leadership race last year, she quickly transitioned into a controversial and divisive premier. She got herself into trouble by, among other things, talking by phone to Artur Pawlowski in January about his criminal charges stemming from the Coutts border blockade in Alberta. Last week, Pawlowski was found guilty on two charges. Because of that phone call, Smith is under investigation by Albertas ethics commissioner.

A succession of opinion polls have pointed to a dead heat provincewide, but diving into the weeds reveals Albertans tend to have a higher opinion of NDP Leader Rachel Notley than of Smith.

A Leger report last week said Albertans see Notley being more honest than Smith (37 per cent to 23), more trustworthy (38 to 24), a better communicator (40 to 26) and best represents Albertans (37 to 31). Leger conducted a survey of 1,000 people April 28-May 1. As an online poll it has no reported margin of error.

So, it wouldnt be surprising to see UCP candidates on the doorstep play up the UCP as a conservative movement while they play down Smith as leader.

Albertans saw a similar tactic in the 2004 election, when Ralph Klein was losing his lustre as provinces Progressive Conservative everyman premier. Facing a tough re-election fight, PC candidate Thomas Lukaszuk told voters on the doorstep that I disagree with the premier on several issues including Kleins disparaging remarks about two disabled women.

Lukaszuk managed to win his Edmonton riding but only by a razor-thin margin, just three votes. While Klein won a majority of seats, his party lost 210,000 votes and 12 seats compared to the previous election. Conservative supporters didnt cross the floor to another party in 2004, they simply stayed at home on election day. If something similar happened this time with disaffected conservatives, it could tilt the election in the NDPs favour in Battleground Calgary.

Of course, the only thing better for the NDP than having conservative voters staying home would be for them to vote New Democrat for the first time. With that in mind, Notley made a plea last week to conservative-leaning voters who have misgivings about Smith.

Maybe youve never voted for me, but this election is different, said Notley who hoped to pull at conservative heartstrings by promising to freeze personal income taxes, produce balanced budgets, create jobs and run a stable government.

For her part, Smith has promised to cut personal income taxes, has already tabled a balanced budget, and is promising more job creation programs.

But the NDPs plea also raised issues where Smith has proved lacking. Its about leadership and trust, said Notley.

A major difference between Notley and Smith is that Notley heads a united party while Smiths party is still recovering from last years divisive leadership race. If Notley squeaks out a small majority, the NDP will be dancing in the streets. If Smith squeaks out a narrow win, the UCP will be dancing on her political grave.

The knives are at the ready. One UCP candidate, who has been canvassing support in Calgary, told me Smith is the number one issue on the doorstep, and not in a good way.

He said there are already rumblings against Smith among candidates who find themselves on the razors edge. A source in the business community told me a cabinet minister expressed to him in so many words, Dont worry about Smith, she wont last.

Alberta conservatives have proven adept over the years forcing out unpopular leaders without the need for a formal leadership review. Ed Stelmach and Alison Reford were, in fact, pushed out after they had won leadership votes.

This time around Smith is facing pressure not only from moderate conservatives in Calgary but by fringe supporters in rural areas. Its the same kind of two-pronged threat that undermined Kenneys leadership, destabilized his government, and ultimately ended his career.

David Parker, leader of the right-wing organization Take Back Alberta, which claims credit for unseating Kenney and crowning Smith, is blunt about Smiths future should she disappoint him after the election: There would probably be a grassroots movement to remove Smith if she didnt do what she said shed do.

To survive, Smith doesnt just need to win, she needs to Win.

Albertas election drama is filled with so much speculation, plot twists and personalities that its impossible to predict the outcome. And now Mother Nature is playing a role, too.

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There are chances for the grain deal, which expires on May 18, to be prolonged, Turkish Presidential Spokesman Ibrahim Kalin told Haberturk Sunday, Trend reports citing TASS.

"I hope for the extension of the grain deal, there are chances for that. Necessary efforts are being made in this direction," he said.

Agreements on the export of food and fertilizers from Ukraine to the international market were concluded on July 22, 2022, for 120 days and extended in November for the same period. One of the agreements regulates the order of grain supplies from the Kiev-controlled ports of Odessa, Chernomorsk and Yuzhny. Moreover, a memorandum was inked by Russia and the UN on lifting export restrictions for Russian agricultural products and fertilizers to global markets. Moscow notes that the second part of the agreement is not being implemented. On March 18, Russia announced that the deal was being extended for 60 days, warning that this would be enough time to assess the efficacy of the memorandum signed with the UN.
Toronto should not expect the rest of Ontario and Canada to pay for its budget shortfall.

Raise your taxes or cut back on things. Everywhere else has to deal with their own community problems.

Kevin Argue, Jordan Station

Every time I pick up a plastic-wrapped grocery item, I think, what did we do before we had plastic? I find a replacement or go without.

In the grocery store where I shop, I do not buy, for example, berries of any sort. I buy Canadian and frequent local farmers markets. I use a local refillery that means there are entire aisles I never visit. I agree with the letter writer.

No more plastic bags in the grocery stores? So what, when 70 per cent of everything else is armour-plated, sometimes two or three times over, in plastic.

Someday in another galaxy where someone is trying to figure out how this happened, there will be one certain conclusion: convenience killed us.

LeeAnn McKenna, Mono Township

I am in my 80th year and appalled at the premier of Ontarios behaviour. The Conservative government has so far resisted calls to reveal a detailed business case for the spa at Ontario Place and relocation of the Ontario Science Centre from Don Mills.

The premier does not own Ontario Place nor does he own the science centre. He is stealing from the people of Ontario who value the science centre being located in its natural setting with flora and fauna to appreciated and studied by future generations.

He is failing to consult the many experts who have not supported his selfish plans  the Natural Resources Conservation Board has not been consulted and the architect who designed the Ontario Science Centre does not support the relocation of the science centre.

Dare I say, he is beginning to sound like a dictator because he is acting like one!

Lillian Shery, Toronto

Mining and processing critical minerals top Ontario priority ahead of federal budget, March 24

The mining sector in Canada has created substantial environmental liabilities. Damaging the natural environment comes with consequences, and no industry should be permitted to operate without appropriate checks and balances in place.

Bottom line? Government policy in Canada should put Indigenous rights and protection of the environment ahead of the profit incentives of the mining sector if we want to prevent the loss of natural habitats, rapid biodiversity loss and reduce the magnitude of climate change.

The debate has to end here.

We need to prioritize long-term environmental well-being over short-term profit. .

Vidhi Bhatt, Brampton

It is an unbelievable double standard that Canadas right media is talking about how Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievres wife, Anaida, is being targeted on social media, and how terrible it is.

Where was their outrage when former Conservative leadership candidate Peter MacKays wife, Nazanin Afshin-Jam, was subjected to threats and horrific racist and Islamophobic slurs? It is shameful that the right-wing media were silent then, but are vocal now.

Is this lack of enthusiasm to defend MacKays wife, but to go to bat for Poilievres spouse due to the fact that Canadas right-wing media just could not get excited over a Red Tory candidate but is energized over the Donald Trump clone now leading the CPC?

Elisa T. Ruddy, Hamilton

We all complain about the high prices of food at the grocery stores, but what about the inflated prices charged by contractors.

Recently a plumber came to my cottage in Port Carling wanting $1,600 to repair a broken water pipe. Though he said this was a busy time of the year and that he had to turn on the water systems for 200 cottagers, I felt that this was outright price gouging. To add insult to injury he wanted cash under the table I did not hire him.

Do these people not know that they should pay their fair share of taxes? Given that many people are struggling with the minimum wage and also that taxes go to our local hospitals, we should report these contractors to Revenue Canada.

Dave Rodman, Mississauga

Police called after heated dispute at Catholic school board meeting over raising Pride flag, April 26

As a lifelong Catholic and as a human being, I am appalled at the behaviour of so many at the York region Catholic school board meeting.

The loving Christian acceptance of LGBTQ persons is personified in Pope Francis. I urge all people to follow his lead.

Juanita MacLean, Scarborough

Are Canadians sick of Trudeau? May 5

Canadians are sick of many things, such as the lingering pandemic, constant bad news on climate change, rich vs. poor income disparities, the discovery of unmarked graves of Indigenous children and the deterioration of major cities trying to come out from under the pall of COVID.

I doubt, however, that it would take them nine years to get sick of a Pierre Poilievre government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has far surpassed his predecessors on womens rights and on issues of Truth and Reconciliation.

Americans grew sick of the Clintons, and look what they got instead! Trudeau respects scientific expertise and heeds the good counsel of trusted advisers like Katie Telford and yes, Chrystia Freeland.

The NDP has long functioned as the conscience of the Liberals, most recently with regards to dental care, which made their pulling the rug out from under the Liberals on the gun control all the more regrettable.

Ron Charach, Toronto

The Star welcomes letters from readers. Send your contribution via email to lettertoed@thestar.ca . Please include your full name, address and phone number. Street names and phone numbers will not be published. The Star reserves the right to edit letters, which typically run 50-150 words.

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Abasket of fuel options has emerged in India ~ ethanol, Biodiesel, Bio-CNG, methanol and Green Hydrogen ~ that can help address the challenge of energy security. As alternatives to conventional energy sources, they will play a huge role in taking us to the net zero goal.

However, their role as mainstream alternative fuels towards the 2070 net-zero emissions target remains to be evaluated. The objective is to push future fuels into the mainstream narrative for energy security and low carbon mobility, which is required to drive towards netzero targets.

While India is a net exporter of petroleum products, the dependency on the import of crude oil and natural gas creates a persistent sense of vulnerability. Many oil companies have been investing in biofuels for decades, especially through research efforts and venture capital spending. In recent times, they have also entered into green hydrogen and have committed to huge investments.

Much of this in current times is being driven by the need to remain relevant in a post energy transition scenario and also to address concerns of environmentally-conscious large shareholding groups. Let us evaluate each of these. Bioethanol : First Generation Feedstock: Sugarcane Juice, Sugar B-Molasses, Sugar C-Molasses, Sugar beet, Cassava, Sorghum, Corn, Sweet Potato, Grains, Petrochemical route. Second Generation Feedstock: Lignocellulose, cellulose, forestry residues, agro-waste, wood residues, other organic wastes rich in sucrose content can be used to produce ethanol.

Such feedstock is typically rich in cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Energy crops are also counted as second generation feedstock as they dont compete with food, and are typically cultivated on wastelands. Third Generation Feedstock: Ethanol can also be produced from algae, but it is currently not considered economically viable. India relies on sugarcane as the primary feedstock for its ethanol plants.

Sugarcane farming is increasingly tilting towards catering to ethanol production, thanks to aggressive fuel-blending mandates from the government. Supply chain mechanism is relatively more organised and centralised with participation from large refineries, with them entering into contracts with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to support national level fuel blending programmes and demand from the medical, liquor and cosmetic industry.

Feedstock is supplied by farmers to the ethanol refineries in trucks and tractors against a minimum procurement price. India produced 500 million metric tonnes of sugarcane in 2021-22. Major sugarcane producing states are UP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand. Currently, around six million metric tonnes of sugar is utilised to produce ethanol.

This is sourced from the surplus sugar production. India produced an estimated 23.1 million tonnes of corn in the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2022- 23. Major corn producing states in India are Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Arunachal Pradesh.

Another grain in consideration is rice. 130 Million metric tonnes of rice was produced in 2021-22 in India. Currently, the government intends to utilise around 17 million tonnes of surplus foodgrains, particularly surplus rice and corn apart from sugarcane molasses, for manufacturing ethanol to achieve the target of 20 per cent blending with petrol by 2025.

This is necessary because the amount of sugar that can be diverted remains limited. Bio-CNG : The organic fraction of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), representing roughly 40-50 per cent of total mixed waste, is a suitable feedstock. Organic waste is biodegradable, therefore can be broken down into simpler gaseous and solid compounds. Other than MSW, the feedstock could also include sewage water sludge and industrial organic waste.

Non-woody agricultural waste (like paddy straw, wheat straw, bagasse, etc), animal waste (cow dung, faecal waste) and more such feedstock options exist. Cow dung, in particular, is considered a good feedstock making a rich culture for digesters in biogas/bio-CNG plants.

Urban Local Bodies collect MSW from households, hotels and industries. In a favourable case, waste goes through primary segregation, where recyclable inorganic fraction is separated by ragpickers (who mostly belong to the informal economy).

The remaining portion, consisting of non-recyclable inorganic and decomposable organic fraction, gets transported to a storagecum-segregation facility where the inorganic fraction is removed and sent to landfills for dumping. The remaining part is almost fully organic in nature and is ready to be sent to the digestor of a bio-methanation plant.

Usually stored by farmers in fallow lands, cellulose-rich agrowaste is typically harder to digest, and therefore has a lower gas yield. In India, the waste is transported to the bio-methanation plant either by the farmer or the plant agency, as per the decided contract, against a minimum price. Sewage water waste sludge is supplied by the ULBs through a wide distribution of piping networks to Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs).

A co-located biogas plant is a resourceful way to dispose of the sludge. Organic solid waste is found across all human settlements  rural and urban. In cities, MSW is the dominant form of waste, growing rapidly. According to World Bank estimates, 277.1 MMT of MSW is generated in India annually.

Estimates suggest that over 1.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of automotivegrade Bio-CNG can be generated by treating MSW alone in India. India produces upto 350 MMT of agricultural waste per year. This translates to 0.12 MTPA of automotive grade bio-CNG, depending on the type of stubble. India generates upto 1.7 MMT of faecal waste per annum, 78 per cent of which is left untreated. Biodiesel : Palm, Jatropha, Rapeseed, Soybean, Sunflower, Cottonseed, Safflower, Peanut Oil, Used Cooking Oil can be used. Biodiesel can also be prepared from hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, Animal Fat, Pongamia, and coal to oil.

Algae is another source now being seriously considered. Plant/ refinery operated collection systems use cooking oil from hotel industry and energy crops collected from farmers under National Biodiesel Mission. Jatropha plantations are spread across Telangana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh primarily. In 2018, it was reported that Jatropha occupied around 0.5 million hectares of low-quality wastelands across the country, of which 65-70 per cent were new plantations of less than three years.

Used cooking oil (UCO) is being promoted under RUCO programme of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). India produces 2,700 crore liters of UCO as per the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Palm stearin oil is currently being imported from Indonesia, primarily.

It is estimated that Indias annual demand for palm oil, mostly led by cooking medium requirements, is 9 million tonnes each year. Over 62 per cent of edible oil import in India constitutes palm oil. Methanol : Oil, Natural Gas, Agricultural Waste, Forestry Residues, Municipal Solid Waste, Hydrogen, Carbon Dioxide. Natural Gas, Indian High Ash Coal, Biomass, MSW, Stranded and Flared Gases can be used.

Wood was one of the earlier feedstocks for the production of methanol. The destructive distillation of wood was the method adopted. However, this biomass type was abandoned long back in favour of fossil fuel-based production. The shift was also prompted by the large requirements of wood, leading to large scale deforestation.

Thanks to the shift to fossil fuel based technologies, coal and natural gas are the preferred mainstream sources, which are processed to first produce syngas and then methanol.

However, given the associated environment and carbon footprints, alternatives are being sought. Bio-methanol is methanol produced from biomass or solid waste. The production method is significantly different from that of conventional methanol. Also, renewable energy can be used to produce methanol from these sources.

As the demand for green methanol rises, this combination of biomass/ MSW and renewable energy can potentially lead to a shift in the methanol production method away from the present industry practice. e-methanol is another alternative where carbon dioxide is used to generate methanol with the help of electricity generated from renewable resources like wind and solar. India is a net importer of natural gas, importing 30,776 MMSCM of liquified natural gas (LNG) in 2021-22.

As per September data, natural gas was used primarily by fertiliser (32 per cent) followed by City Gas Distribution (cooking, transport etc. ~ 21%) and other uses liked creating petrochemicals (22%). Thus, its utilisation for methanol production remains unlikely. Abundant coal reserves in India (estimated at 319.02 billion tonnes) have driven interest towards adoption of methanol for a variety of industrial and mobility purposes. 4

However, the exact estimates of coal availability are contested. Biomass stocks, especially crop stubble, are an easy source for bio-methanol production. However, seasonal availability and logistical issues need to be sorted out to enable its utilisation. As noted for bio CNG, India produces up to 350 MMT of agricultural waste per year.

Municipal solid waste is another option. However, the technology around it is still considered expensive. Green Hydrogen : Water and Electricity are needed to produce Green Hydrogen. Water sourcing as feedstock would be necessary via pipelines since most plants related to green hydrogen are intended to be set up near green energy generation plants. India is officially listed as a water stressed nation.

Of course, the quantum of water needed still remains debatable, ranging between 22- 32 kg of water for every kilogram of hydrogen. Even desalinationbased strategy is not preferred due to the high cost implications. Green hydrogen is still a frontier in some respects, given its rather modest production figures.

By 2030, India estimates to produce 5MT of green hydrogen. Comparatively, Indias current grey hydrogen production from natural gas is 6MT per annum. The feedstock is essentially water and the cost of production is theoretically low thanks to cheap renewable energy. This has to be accompanied by a necessary fall in the cost of electrolysers.

Globally planned announcements have taken place on targets and promised investents. However, transport and storage issues still need to be addressed suitably to ensure a larger uptake across mobility. Water consumption is another area where concerns remain. Some pilots have started in India and announcements related to setting up of large scale production units have also been made.

Some states have also made policy announcements around green hydrogen, pre-empting significant investment opportunities in this space. However, actual ground level action will take time to show results.

The long distance trucking segment is emerging as a contender for deployment of hydrogen. Niche areas like shipping and aviation are other contenders.

(The writer is Chair, Environment & Green Hydrogen Committee, PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry and can be reached at [email protected])
As London celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla the British Deputy High Commission Kolkata also marked the occasion yesterday with a celebratory evening reception.

The reception was attended by eminent personalities from the state government, business leaders, climate activists, UK alumni, differently-abled sportspersons and other figures from the field of academics, cinema and tourism. One of the key themes for the celebration reception in Kolkata was sustainability.

The event was carbon neutral and financed verified carbon removal and avoidance projects in Eastern India that are producing carbon credits. A QR code was generated and guests voted for their preferred carbon reducing project.

These projects are helping to offset the emissions from the event, which even included travel-related emissions of guests. One of the highlights of the reception was an exclusive platter of British food which included the coronation quiche, coronation chicken, welsh lamb cawl, fish and chips, apple cinnamon pie et al, according to the acting British deputy high commissioner to Kolkata, Peter Cook.

Notably, the newly coronated King has undertaken 10 official visits to India as Prince of Wales; the first in 1980 to Kolkata and most recently in November 2019 when he visited New Delhi and Mumbai.
People from Manipur living in Kolkata gathered on Sunday evening at Salt Lake to pray for a return to peace in their violence-hit home state.

Around 50 people, including men and women both, held a candle-light vigil in front of the Manipur Bhavan building at Salt Lake under the banner of Manipuri in Kolkata an umbrella organisation of people from the state living in the city. The gathering prayed for the restoration of peace and communal harmony in Manipur, which has been hit by ethnic violence that has left over 50 people dead since the evening of 3 May.

Roshan Khumukcham, vice president of Manipuri in Kolkata, said the organisation is also taking steps informally to ensure that no conflict arises among the communities from Manipur living in the city. He said that during the meeting, it was made clear that the issues that gave rise to the violence were constitutional in nature, and not primarily communal.

Mr Khumukcham urged the Central and Manipur governments to take necessary steps to resolve the underlying issues and restore peace to the state. Earlier, Manipuri In Kolkata issued a statement expressing anguish at the events in Manipur that have resulted in innumerable loss of precious lives, loss of honour and dignity, loss of property, and regretting the destruction of the fine social fabric which have been built over thousands of years based on mutual trust, respect and co-existence.

The statement said MIK shares the pain and stands in solidarity with all those who have suffered in this difficult time. MIK sincerely believe that, these happenings are just a temporary aberration in our glorious history & we would very soon return to normalcy. We are fully committed in finding a way forward & a solution to build a progressive, all inclusive Manipur, the statement said.
Pinger devices fitted on the fishing gears, TEDs (Turtle Excluder Device)s are the tools planned to be used by the WWF (world wildlife fund) experts to minimize mortality of the Gangetic Dolphins entangled in the monofilament gill nets. Gangetic Dolphins echolate. But this mechanism is inadequate for poor sonar echoing objects such as the gill nets. Use of pingers help much in aiding the deterrence of dolphins from fishing nets, Anurag Danda, Director, WWF  Sunderbans told TheStatesman.

He added: Weve already installed pingers in the Bhagirathi water at Sitahati in Ketugram 23 days ago but weve to wait at least for 70 days for a definite outcome. Besides, he said: Weve proposed use of TEDs for the purpose. A TED is a soecialised device that allows the captured turtle to escape when caught in a fishermans net, which is proposed to be used by vessels plying on the Bhagirathi.

The dramatical fall in the number of dolphins in the Bhagirathi saw top officials and experts flocking to Burdwan to share their anxiety, besides suggesting remedies to help putting a halt to the menace of dolphin deaths.

The deaths of the endangered fresh water cataceans like Gangetic Dolphins, the experts opined, are results of the indiscriminate laying of killer gill & ghost nets by fishermen. Soumitra Dasgupta  the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and the Divisional Forest authorities from nine South Bengal districts held discussions in Burdwan on how the aquatic animals like dolphins, otters, gharials and turtles can be rescued from the depredations of the fishersmen residing by the river.

Weve planned a three pronged action  improve dolphin habitats, conservation of the species accommodating common people  mainly the fishermen in the process of conservation and the third one  to promote dolphin tourism industry, said Mr Dasgupta, the CCF. He added: Within a month the DFOs of the nine districts will table proposals for this and well start works in this financial year itself.

The forest department has sought budgetary support from the state government, besides Central funds for saving the aquatic species living in the Bhagirathi. The CCF said: Weve estimated Rs 8 to Rs 10 Crore fund support for this. The WWF abd WII (wildlife Institute of India) have agreed to share the task, the officials said. The Gangetic Dolphins adapted to inhabit the turbid water of Ganga-MeghnaBrahmaputra-KarnaphuliSangu river system.

As part of this adaptation, the Gangetic river Dolphins have reduced their visual abilities, allowing them to only perceive directionality of light sources, but not to identify or resolve objects underwater. Therefore, they depend mostly on their echolocation abilities, rather than on visual cue, for most of their activities such as forging, navigation and introspective communication, said Nisha Goswami, DFO, East Burdwan.

The echolocation mechanism of these dolphins involve a ceaseless emission and reception of bio-sonar clicks to recognize the presence of underwater objects.
In a first, MPs, MLAs, Office bearers of Trinamool Congress will celebrate Rabindranath Tagores birth anniversary on May 9 by singing Tagore Songs at a small function at Trinamool Bhavan in Kolkata.

The probable MPs who may sing Tagore Songs are Babul Supriyo, Sudip Bandopadhaya, Dola Sen, Sukhendu Shekhar Roy and many office bearers.

Speaking to The Statesman, Sukhendu Shekhar Roy said, Our Chief Minister Mamta Banerjees standing instructions are there for us to celebrate certain days like Netajis birth anniversary, Rabindra Nath Tagores birth anniversary and some other specific days. We have a list of such specific days. So we are following her instructions. There will be a huge programme planned by didi which will have a lot of fanfare and will also be organized in the evening. And we all will be there in the evening. This will be a small arrangement at the party office to mark the special day.

The party workers are all ensuring that the day is celebrated with fervour.
Accepting the recommendations of Haryana Backward Classes Commission, the Haryana Cabinet on Wednesday decided to give reservation to people belonging to Backward Classes (A) category in the municipalities.

An official spokesperson said to ensure political reservation rights of Backward Classes (BCs) in the urban local bodies, the Cabinet accepted the Haryana Backward Classes Commissions report.

The Commission headed by former Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice (retd) Darshan Singh conducted the dedicated inquiry for the assessment of the political backwardness of the BCs.

In the assessment, the Commission found that the backward classes of citizens, Block A (BC-A) are not adequately represented in the political setup, so they require the support of reservation in the election of local bodies for adequate participation in the grassroot democratic setup, he added. The BC (A) is a subcategory of the Backward Classes, which is considered more backward among the BCs.
At least ten students were brought back to Odisha from ethnic violence-hit Manipur in flights arranged by the State government. The returnees are studying in Central Agricultural University, Imphal and were stranded after the eruption of violence and arson in the north eastern State.

The students arrived at Biju Patnaik International Airport at 11.10 am and were received by Director of Odisha Paribar, Dilip Routray. They had boarded an IndiGo flight from Imphal airport last night (12.15 am).

The Odisha government had requested security for them while leaving the University for the Airport. The Manipur government had extended cooperation with the officials assisting the evacuation process.

Special arrangements were made for their transport and accommodation during transit, the Chief Ministers Office stated in the official twitter handle.

Even as at least 52 people have been slaughtered in Manipur since the 3 May outbreak of ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, the stranded Odia students had a harrowing time as there was chaos all around.

It was my worst nightmare. Though the trouble makers did not intrude into our campus, we lived and survived amid constant fear and panic, said one of the returnees.

The returnees, who later met chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, appreciated the State Governments prompt initiative in evacuating them to safety.
The Delhi government has started an anti-dust campaign in the National Capital from today onwards. This campaign will run for the next one month till June 8.

Under the campaign, 235 patrolling teams of 629 personnel and 165 patrolling teams of 433 personnel at night from 13 departments have been deployed for inspection all over Delhi. Along with this, it is mandatory to do self-registration of all construction sites above 500 square meters on the C&D portal.

Orders have been issued to all the departments for continuous inspection of C&D sites and to take action on violation of the 14 construction rules at these construction sites. To prevent dust pollution, 84 Mechanical Road Sweeping (MRS) machines, 609 water sprinklers and 185 mobile anti-smog guns have been deployed and 70 new Integrated Mechanical Road Sweeping (MRS) machines and 250 Integrated Water Sprinkler machines will be procured soon. Today a review meeting was held with all the departments regarding the procurement by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai.

Giving information about the anti-dust campaign, Rai said, Air pollution in Delhi is improving steadily due to the stringent steps taken by the Delhi government under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The governments efforts have resulted in a decline of 30 per cent in air pollution levels in Delhi from 2016 to 2022-23. With the initiation of the Real Time Source Appreciation Study by the Delhi government, it has become clear that the factors contributing to pollution vary in winter and summer.

During winter, pollution is largely caused by fluctuations in the weather. This includes stubble burning, firecrackers, exhaust from vehicles and open fires. On the other hand, in summer, pollution mainly occurs due to dust, mountains of garbage and fire in bushes. Conversely, during summer, pollution primarily results from dust, heaps of waste, and wildfires. Consequently, to address the issue of pollution during the summer months, the Chief Minister unveiled a 14-point summer action plan on May 1st. To bring further improvement in air pollution in Delhi, as a part of summer action plan, our government is starting the anti-dust campaign in Delhi for next one month from 8th May i.e. from today, the environment minister said.

Under the anti-dust campaign, 235 patrolling teams of 629 personnel and 165 patrolling teams of 433 personnel at night from 13 departments have been deployed for inspection all over Delhi. These teams will operate round the clock to observe and avert occurrences of dust pollution in Delhi. Their report will also be shared with the Environment Department and DPCC from time to time.

The Delhi Environment Minister said dust pollution arising from construction sites proves to be very harmful for the health of the people.

He said to address this issue, the Construction and Demolition Portal was introduced. All construction sites that cover an area of 500 square meters or more are required to self-register on this portal. Presently, there are 750 registered sites on this portal. The aim of this campaign is to ensure that all active C&D sites are registered on the portal. DPCC will examine the self-assessment reports of all registered sites on the portal.

For this, instructions have been issued to the departments to continuously monitor the construction sites. To achieve this, the relevant departments have been instructed to monitor construction sites regularly. If construction sites violate any rules, the department will take appropriate action as per the NGT directions, the Delhi Environment Minister said.

He said 84 Mechanical Road Sweeping (MRS) machines, 609 water sprinklers and 185 mobile anti-smog guns have been deployed across Delhi to prevent dust pollution.

Regarding dust pollution, earlier there was a rule to install anti-smog guns only on construction sites above 20,000 square meters. Now, on the basis of the new rules, it has been made mandatory to install anti-smog guns at the construction site of an area of 5000 square meters and above, the Delhi Environment Minister said.

An anti-smog gun at the construction site measuring 5,000 to 10,000 square metres. Two anti-smog guns at those construction sites measuring 10 thousand to 15 thousand square meters. Three anti-smog guns at 15 thousand to 20 thousand square meter construction sites and at least four anti-smog guns at construction sites above 20 thousand square meters.

Rai said, Through a special campaign, the sources of air pollution in all the 13 hotspots will be detected on the basis of real-time apportionment study on a daily basis. The designated officers in those locations will be notified of the primary sources of pollution in their vicinity. This information will be disseminated to facilitate prompt remedial measures.

The Delhi Environment Minister said 70 Integrated Mechanical Road Sweeping (MRS) machines and 250 Integrated Water Sprinkler machines will be procured soon to prevent road pollution.

For this, a review meeting was held with all the departments concerned at the Delhi Secretariat today. Officers of the Environment Department, DPCC, Delhi Jal Board, PWD etc were present during the meeting, he said.

Rai said, This anti-dust campaign will provide relief to the people of Delhi to a great extent from the pollution caused during the summer season. Moreover, it will play a crucial part in enhancing the environment and curbing pollution in Delhi.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 8. We have issued warnings to Armenia regarding the monument to terrorists installed there, and we are thinking about taking additional measures, the Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavushoglu said in an interview with "Lider Haber", Trend reports.

He noted that Turkiye has made significant gestures towards Armenia, but Armenia has once again shown its insincerity.

"We have made some gestures towards normalization of relations with Armenia. Our goal was to normalize relations and contribute to the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The installation of a monument to the Nemesis terrorists in Yerevan is unacceptable. We have given Armenia the necessary warnings regarding the demolition of the monument. We are also considering the possibility of taking additional measures," Cavusoglu said.

Meanwhile, the diplomatic relations between Armenia and Turkiye have been officially non-existent. In 1993, Turkiye reacted to the First Karabakh War, by closing its border with Armenia out of support for Azerbaijan.

In December 2021, Armenia and Turkiye announced appointing special envoys who met in Moscow in January 2022, with positive international reactions for attempts of normalizing relations. On 1 January 2022, Armenia lifted the embargo on Turkiye.
One person was injured in a blast on Monday morning at Heritage Street near the Golden Temple in Punjabs Amritsar, the very site where an explosion took place on May 6, police said today.

The cause of the explosion, however, is yet to be ascertained and police said they are verifying the cause of the incident.

We are verifying. The situation is normal here. Anti-sabotage, Bomb Squad, and FSL teams are here, Amritsar Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Mehtab Singh told ANI.

He further said that one person has received a minor injury in the leg and the glass facades of some nearby buildings were damaged in the blast.

After the clarification, we can tell how it happened. The investigation is going on by our teams, he added.

A sweeper who was present on the spot during the incident said, I am a sweeper here and was doing my duty when I heard a big blast sound and saw heavy smoke, he said.

On May 6, Saturday night around 11:15 pm there was an explosion at the same Heritage Street near the Golden Temple, police said in which one person was injured.

Amritsar ADCP Mehtab Singh said that both Saturdays blast and the one today was of a low intensity.
The Union Housing and Urban Affairs and the Railways ministries have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for building four stations along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (Project-SMART) corridor, a statement said on Monday.

The four stations will be Sabarmati, Surat, Virar and Thane, said the statement issued by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

According to the ministry, Project-SMART envisages developing surrounding areas of the stations to enhance accessibility and convenience of commuters and other stakeholders, and to promote economic activities in their vicinities.

The project would facilitate and enhance the institutional capacity of state governments, municipal corporations and urban development authorities to plan, develop and manage surrounding areas of high-speed railway stations.

The MoHUA, the governments of Gujarat and Maharashtra and JICA are organising a series of seminars and field visits for ProjectSMART in Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.

The deliberations of the Seminars would contribute to the preparation of Station Area Development Plans for Sabarmati, Surat, Virar and Thane HSR Stations and model handbook, containing experiences and methodologies adopted in Japan, India and other countries for Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and Station Area Development.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) in a statewide drive has detained around 70 activists of banned organisation Popular Front of India (PFI) and arrested two wanted PFI backed criminals from Varanasi.

Both the arrested PFI activists Parvez Ahmed and Rais Ahmed were absconding since long and UP Police had announced Rs 50,000 award on them separately. They are accused of working to spread the radical ideology of PFI.

Criminal cases under Sections 147, 148, 149, 188,332, 353, 341, of IPC and 7 CLA Act were pending at Chetganj police station in Varanasi and Sections 121-A,153A,295A,109,120-B of IPC and 13 Unlawful Activity (Prevention) Act at Adampur police station against both the arrested PFI members.

ADG ARS Naveen said that accused Raees Ahmed, since the time of CAA-NRC, was active in anti-national activities conducted by PFI and was in contact with active members of PFI leaders of Assam and other states.

The ADG said: Continuous action is being taken in relation to the members associated with the PFI organization.

The UP ATS on Saturday conducted raids in several districts of the state in search of people associated with the Popular Front of India.

The Government of India banned PFI and its eight affiliated organizations in September 2022 for their subversive activities, promoting and implementing terror-based regressive regime, creating disaffection towards the country in a particular section.
Lashing out at Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav for calling the civic body polls an election for garbage collection, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adiyanath on Monday said, His statement is an insult to six crore people. Rather, this is an election to clean the garbage, filth and anarchy of SP-BSP.

Addressing a public meeting in Barabanki ahead of municipal election Yogi Adiyanath said, Prior to 2017, every city had virtually turned into a garbage dump. The cities were identified by piles of garbage in them. You must have read the statement of the president of Samajwadi Party that he is not interested in municipal elections because it is an election for garbage collection. That is picking up garbage is against their reputation.

Use of such words by a person who has been the chief minister of a state like Uttar Pradesh is an insult to the six crore people living in urban areas of the state, he said, adding that this is not garbage, rather it is an election to clean the garbage, filth and anarchy of SP-BSP,  he added.

On the contrary, he said, we are contesting the municipal elections as we strive to make our cities smart and safe and to improve the quality of life of people by providing basic amenities. The BJP Government is working towards making urban life clean, beautiful, and safe. Therefore, the party has come to appeal to you to vote for the BJP candidates in the municipal bodies elections to bring about a comprehensive change in the standard of living of the people as well as to provide them with the benefits of welfare schemes.

He attacked the Opposition parties by saying that the people of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and Congress were following a policy of appeasement and used to divide the society on the basis of caste.

In an election rally in Mirzapur, Yogi Adityanath said, Those who made you yearn for a drop of water make them yearn for one vote.

He said that dynasts created obstacles in the way of development as they have nothing to do with development. They looted funds meant for welfare schemes for the poor. On the other hand, the double-engine government was engaged in solving drinking water problem once and for all.
A Nigerian national was arrested on Sunday for allegedly overstaying in India, said police. The accused was arrested at around 1.15 pm from Badem, Assagaon under Anjuna police station of South Goa where he was staying illegally, added the police.

The arrested accused was identified as Innocent Chiukwu (38) who is not having valid travel documents, thereby contravening the provisions of Foreigners Order 1948 & Foreigners Act 1946. Following the arrest Chiukwu was produced before Mapusa Court from where he was sent to 14 days Judicial custody. Investigation officer Sahil V. Warang of Anjuna Police Station is investigating to find out whether Chiukwu was involved in illegal activities.
Assam Rifles along with the Nagaland State Police successfully evacuated more than 600 Naga students and families from violence-hit Imphal on Sunday.

The operation was led by Deputy Inspector General Ved Beniwal. A total of 676 persons including 341 families were evacuated during this process.

Speaking to media persons, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton said that the State will ensure full cooperation with the Assam Rifles in ensuring the safe evacuation of the Naga persons at Manipur. He said that more than six hundred persons arrived today, and buses and taxis have been arranged for their designated hometowns.

Appealing to the stranded still in Manipur, he said that by tomorrow the State government will be sending fourteen buses to bring them home safely and requested them to be patient.

Deputy Inspector General Ved Beniwal, who led the evacuations rescue operation, said they did face lots of challenges in gathering the people to a certain area, however with the help of the people, and the devise ways and means to see the problem somehow gathered the people together.

Further stated that there are more people yet to be evacuated and alot of coordination has to go in, and depending on the situation the Assam Rifle alongwith the State Government will take a call on it, he added.

Later under the State government, six buses were sent to Dimapur for further dispatch of people.

The rescue operation commenced on Saturday and reached the State Capital on Sunday evacuating more than six hundred civilians, more evacuations are stated to continue ensuring a safe return from Manipur.

Violence had erupted in Manipur in the immediate aftermath of inter-community clashes in a few districts of the northeastern State amid protests against the inclusion of the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category.
After watching the movie The Kerala Story, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda said that there is a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, adding that the film exposes poisonous terrorism.

Nadda on Sunday, attend a special screening of the movie in the Garuda Mall, Bengaluru where he is also campaigning for the party for the upcoming Assembly polls. While talking to reporters, Nadda said, Theres a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition, Kerala Story exposes that poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isnt related to any state or religion

Earlier, while addressing a rally in poll-bound Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that The Kerala Story movie is based on a terror conspiracy.

The Prime Minister said that the film The Kerala Story shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists design. He added that the film is based on a terror conspiracy.

The Kerala Story film is based on a terror conspiracy. It shows the ugly truth of terrorism and exposes terrorists design, the PM said.

He also hit out at the Congress party and said that Congress has shielded terrorism for the vote bank.

Congress is opposing the film made on terrorism and standing with terror tendencies. Congress has shielded terrorism for the vote bank, PM Modi said.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan earlier said in a statement that the movie was deliberately made with the aim of creating communal polarisation and spreading hate propaganda against Kerala.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the newly released movie has been made tax-free in the state stating that the The Kerala Story exposes the conspiracy of love Jihad, religious conversion and terrorism.

Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film has triggered a massive political row with various leaders reacting to the upcoming movie.

The Kerala Story stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in the lead roles. The trailer of Sens film The Kerala Story came under fire as it claimed that 32,000 girls from the state went missing and later joined the terrorist group, ISIS.

Faced with backlash the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description.
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal is in Canada for the sixth India-Canada Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment (MDTI).

He along with Canadas Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development Mary Ng will co-chair the discussions for dialogue in Ottawa.

The MDTI is a bilateral mechanism that provides an institutional mechanism to discuss a broad spectrum of trade and investment-related issues and cooperation areas.

The dialogue will focus on various themes including strengthening the bilateral trade relationship between India and Canada, investment promotion and cooperation and green transition, including Critical Minerals discussion and new Areas of Cooperation such as promoting B2B engagements.

The Ministers will also review the India-Canada CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) negotiations. At the last MDTI meeting in March 2022, both Ministers launched the CEPA negotiations with the possibility of having an interim agreement or EPTA (Early Progress Trade Agreement). Since then, seven rounds of negotiations have been held.

Goyal will also be visiting Toronto where he will have various engagements to promote trade and investment. These engagements will include meetings with CEOs of key Canadian companies, a Round Table of Indian and Canadian CEOs, interaction with Canadian and Indian companies based in Canada and a Financial Sector Round Table, etc. The minister would be accompanied by a delegation of Indian CEOs led by FICCI.

He will also inaugurate the Indian Pavilion at SIAL CANADA-2023, which is the largest food innovation trade show in North America with the participation of more than 1000 national & international exhibitors from 50 countries. The event will address the needs of the retail, food service and food processing industries.

At SIAL Canada, Indian business participation consists of a delegation from the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI), the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). There will also be a Trade and Investment Promotion Event for the Agricultural and Food Processing sector with Indian companies and Canadian importers on the sidelines of SIAL-2023. This event is likely to be attended by 200 companies.
Accusing Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of ruling like his fiefdom, AICC general secretary on Monday alleged that only those belonging to the ruling party were getting water, funds and jobs in the state.

As the campaign in Karnataka came to an end, Priyanka Gandhi made a brief stopover at Hyderabad to address a Congress rally in Saroornagar targetting primarily the students, youths and the unemployed before flying back to Delhi.

Gandhis visit to Telangana has prompted speculation that she will be given the responsibility to oversee Telangana and she might even contest Lok Sabha elections from Medak Parliamentary seat like her grandmother Indira Gandhi did in 1980. In fact, the PCC chief A Revanth Reddy has time and again reminded the crowd that she is the granddaughter of Indiramma and daughter of Sonia amma who had granted separate statehood to Telangana.

Gandhi has been taking increasing responsibility in Telangana Congress and when veteran Congress leaders had rebelled against incumbent PCC president A Revanth Reddy, it was Priyanjka Gandhi who intervened and sent Manikrao Thakare to soothe the ruffled feathers.

At todays Yuva Sangharshana Sabha at Saroornagar stadium Telangana Congress announced the Hyderabad Youth Declaration, promising to fill up the two lakh vacant posts and initiate pensions for the families of the Telangana martyrs. Gandhi attacked the BRS saying that K Chandrasekhar Raos family have made the state their fiefdom (jagirs) and they are the new feudal lords (jagirdars).

Only those who are members of the ruling party are getting water and they are the ones who get the funds. The jobs are only going to those who are close to them and their friends, said Gandhi.

She slammed the state government for the TSPSC paper leak and wondered why the government did not take any action against the culprits.

Although the entire PCC leadership was present on the dais, it was the current state president A Revanth Reddy and Dansari Anasuya, the MLA from Mulugu drew most of the cheers despite being the newcomers in the party.
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday held a roadshow in Bengalurus Vijayanagar on the last day of campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly elections which are scheduled to be held on the May 10.

In a grand roadshow, Congress workers and supporters across the state participated while a large number of people also gathered on the streets to attend the event. Standing on a vehicle bedecked with flowers, Priyanka greeted the crowd thronging on both sides of the road.

Notably, the high-voltage campaign for the May 10 Assembly elections in Karnataka will come to an end on Monday as all three major political parties in the state  BJP, Congress and JD(S)  have the last chance to woo the voters.

Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge held various roadshows, rallies and elections campaigns.

The Congress is working hard to wrest power from the BJP that is striving to break the 38-year-old pattern of alternating governments and retain its power in the state.

With the war of words between top guns of all the major political parties, the campaigns of the election of the southern citadel saw games of allegations and accusations.

Several issues of the state were promised to be solved.

However, the most discussed one- the issue of Bajrang Dal which was mentioned in the Congress manifesto took centre stage for political campaigning.

The Congress party last week in its manifesto for the upcoming May 10 Karnataka Assembly elections said it will take decisive action as per law including banning organisations like Bajrang Dal, the Popular Front of India and others.

The Congress manifesto said the party is committed to taking firm and decisive action against individuals and organisations spreading hatred among communities on grounds of caste and religion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took part in the barbs around the issue saying The Congress has become a slave of appeasement and vote-bank politics.

Adressing an election rally in Tumakuru, Prime Minister Modi said, Congress has now started objecting to saying Jai Bajrangbali. Congress has become a slave to appeasement and vote-bank politics. Congress can never work for the welfare of Karnataka. It can never develop Karnataka.

PM Modi wrapped up his two-day mega roadshow on Sunday with a stretch of 10 km roadshow in Bengaluru on Sunday.

As part of Congress campaigning for the elections, Rahul Gandhi who is on a visit to Karnataka for campaigning for his party, held an interaction with gig workers and delivery partners of app-based delivery services in Bengaluru on Sunday. The former Lok Sabha MP held the conversation with delivery workers at a hotel in Bengaluru.

Karnataka will go to Assembly polls on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on May 8 that his government is creating history in the Turkish Republic by appointing thousands of teachers at once, Trend reports citing Hurriyet Daily News.

In 2002, we had about 500,000 teachers in our country. Now this number has reached 1,200,000, Erdogan said at the mass appointment ceremony for 45,000 teachers on May 8.

Emphasizing that they appointed more than 75 percent of the current number of teachers, Erdogan said: The number of teachers appointed together with you reaches 800,000. Today, we are making the biggest appointment of teachers in our republics history, he said.

I wish success to you in advance at your places of duty. Last week, we realized the appointment of our 4,134 brothers and sisters with disabilities, he said, noting that thus, they have appointed 12,098 teachers with disabilities in the past decade. Now that you have joined as well, we are further strengthening our army of education, he added.

About half of the teachers, who will start working with this appointment, will take on duties in the earthquake zone provinces, he said and added, Hopefully, with your efforts and sacrifices, we will heal the wounds of the region in a short time.

Erdogan explained that they took crucial steps in the earthquake area in three months, completely removed the debris and completed the installation of 100,000 containers in addition to the 837,000 tents they promised.

Stating that they started the construction process of 142,000 residences and village houses in the region and laid the foundations of 59,000, Erdogan said that they will build 650,000 residences, 319,000 of which will be delivered to the citizens within the first year.

Although the lost lives cannot be brought back, they will replace the destroyed buildings with better, more beautiful, solid and modern ones, he stated.

Turkiyes largest oil well, with a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, discovered in Cudi Gabar, was named after the martyr teacher Aybuke Yalcin, Erdogan said.

We protected the memory of our martyr, who was taken from us and his beloved students by terrorists when she was very young, he said. The president vowed to continue the fight against terrorist organizations and the forces behind them with determination.

We will completely end the terror swamp, which we have brought to the point of extinction within our borders, in the north of Iraq and Syria. We will achieve this with the efforts of you, our teachers, who are the soldiers of our education army, as well as our security forces, he said.
Days after a scheduled caste (SC) man alleged sexual assault by Lal Chand Kataruchak, a Cabinet minister, and the National Scheduled Caste Commission issued a notice in the matter, the Punjab government on Monday formed a three-member special investigation team (SIT) to probe the matter.

As per the order by the director of the Bureau of Investigations on Monday, the SIT will be headed by DIG (border range, Amritsar) Narinder Bhargav and would render complete assistance to the Commission in its investigation into the matter. Bhargav will also provide security to the complainant against the minister.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Friday urged Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit to immediately dismiss Kataruchak and direct police to take action as the person sexually assaulted by him has already come forward and has filed a criminal complaint with National Scheduled Caste Commission regarding his exploitation done by Kataruchak.

In a statement on Monday, Sirsa said the person sexually assaulted by Kataruchak has given his statement to the National SC Commission explaining how he was being sexually exploited by Kataruchak since 2013-14 when he was a minor.

He called it a serious offence and apart from dismissing the minister, the governor should ask the Director General of Police Punjab to arrest him and take action as per law of the land.

Lashing out at Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Sirsa said it was shocking that even after learning about videos of exploitation being submitted to the Punjab governor he kept on defending the accused and denied having any such video.

The BJP leader said Mann should be ashamed of himself for defending a person who is accused of sexually exploiting a minor boy.

Without naming anyone, the Opposition Congress had earlier accused a minister in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of sexual misconduct on the basis of video clips and demanded his ouster even as the CM on Tuesday termed the allegation baseless.

Without naming anyone, Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira on Sunday claimed to have submitted highly objectionable video clips of gross misconduct by an AAP minister to Punjab Governor.

Following this, BJP leader Sirsa claimed the minister has tendered his resignation. The CM, however, claimed he did not receive any resignation or video.

The CM said the allegations showed the Opposition was not getting any issues ahead of the Lok Sabha bypoll in Jalandhar. An MLA from Bhoa in Pathankot, Kataruchak has also rejected Khairas allegations saying Khairas main job is to remain in the media by creating sensationalism and taking political mileage out of it.

Meanwhile, the state government has also sent an interim reply to the Commission which on Friday sought an action-taken report in the matter after the victim, a Pathankot resident, claimed in a video that Kataruchak had forced him into a relationship in 2013-14 after promising a government job.
The Supreme Court on Monday directed YouTuber Manish Kashyap to approach the concerned High Court challenging his detention under the National Security Act (NSA) and seeking the clubbing of multiple FIRs registered against him in Tamil Nadu and Bihar for his videos claiming that the migrant labourers from Bihar were being attacked in Tamil Nadu

Refusing to entertain Kashyaps plea against his detention under NSA, a bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Ju8stice JB Pardiwala said that one cannot circulate fake videos and disturb the peace in a stable state.

Dismissing Kashyaps plea, CJI Chandrachud said, We cant be seen lending support to you.

We are not inclined to entertain the petition. However, the petitioner has liberty to approach the High Court, the court said in its.

Defending the invocation of NSA against Kashyap, Tamil Nadu government, in the course of the hearing, told the top court that the invocation of NSA has been confirmed by the state advisory board. The court was informed that there were 12 FIRs in Bihar and six in Tamil Nadu.

Kashyap had sought interim bail and clubbing of all cases at one place. He had said that cases against him were filed because he has raised the issue of violence against the Bihar-based migrant labourers in Tamil Nadu on social media. He was arrested from Bettiah in Bihar on March 18.

The bench was unmoved when senior advocate Maninder Singh, appearing for Kashyap said that he (Kashyap) would remain inside continuously, and the same would-be a serious miscarriage of justice.

The advocate for Bihar told the bench that in FIR, the allegation against him is for creating a fake video in Patna City but projecting it being made in Tamil Nadu showing that migrant labourers are being killed in the Southern state. Second FIR is against him for the video with a different picture and different sound track and third FIR is based on a picture where he shows himself in handcuffs saying that he was arrested.

Bihar Government described Kashyap as a habitual offender

The YouTuber was arrested for circulating false and misleading stories about the alleged attacks on migrant labourers from Bihar working in Tamil Nadu.
In a veiled attack on the political system in the country and campaigning against own party in Uttar Pradesh civic polls, BJP MP from Pilibhit Varun Feroz Gandhi said lamented that useless issues of caste, religion and regionalism were highlighted while the real issues of youth, farmers, unemployment, corruption, contract employees are ignored.

Varun Gandhi said that nowadays politics rests on money and muscle power and there are very few honest people left in politics.

The BJP MP made these comments while campaigning for Independent candidates in civic polls in the district on Sunday evening. Though there are BJP candidates in the fray from the seats where Gandhi campaigned, he made an appeal to the voters to support the Independents.

Gandhi said he is campaigning for the candidates who are honest and dont have much money like other candidates in the fray.

On the farmers movement, the BJP MP said more than 400 people had given up their lives during the movement. But no one except him spoke on this issue.

He further said, We have become free from the chains of the British, but are bound by the chains of slavery of our own people, which need to be broken.

He said both the poor and the rich have the right to live with dignity. Giving this right to vote people is my politics. I have taken your vote for the election, so I will speak for you. I did not go to any Tata or Birlas place to ask for votes. The most unfortunate thing is that our leaders take votes from the poor and talk about the rich and the industrialists. I never feel afraid of speaking the truth. If you are getting something out of your tax, then it is not a favour to anyone but it is your right, said.
Hong Kong police seized an exhibit on Friday in connection with what they said was an attempt to incite subversion, with media reporting it was the Pillar of Shame, a statue commemorating Beijings Tiananmen Square crackdown on democracy protesters in 1989, reported Voice of America (VOA).

The National Security Department  conducted searches with a warrant this morning. An exhibit related to an incitement to subversion case was seized, police said in a statement. They did not say who was suspected of wanting to use the statue, which was being kept in storage, to incite subversion.

Multiple Hong Kong media outlets, including TVB, Now News and Ming Pao, reported that the seized evidence was the Tiananmen Crackdown monument, which stood at the University of Hong Kong campus for 24 years.

The exhibit was the Pillar of Shame, an 8-meter-tall statue depicting dozens of torn and twisted bodies that commemorate protesters killed in the crackdown in and around Tiananmen Square more than three decades ago, reported VOA.

The two-tonne copper Pillar of Shame was first exhibited at a Tiananmen Square commemoration in Hong Kong in 1997, the same year Britain handed the city back to China.

In 2021, the University of Hong Kong dismantled and removed the statute based on external legal advice and risk assessment for the best interest of the university. It had since been kept in a cargo container on university-owned land, reported Vision Times. (ANI)

The seizure comes weeks ahead of the June 4 anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crackdown.

Hong Kong had traditionally held the largest annual vigils in the world to commemorate the crackdown. The crackdown is taboo in the rest of China and Hong Kongs vigil, traditionally in a city park, was banned beginning in 2020, ostensibly because of coronavirus restrictions.
FILE - Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang speaks during the forum titled Chinese Modernization and the World held at The Grand Halls in Shanghai, on April 21, 2023. Chinas foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday, May 8, 2023 that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must reflect deeply before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Instincts about the strategic significance of the Ukrainian port city of Mariupol led a team of Associated Press journalists there just as Russians were about to lay siege. It proved to be a fateful decision.

For nearly three weeks last year, Mstyslav Chernov, Evgeniy Maloletka and Vasilisa Stepanenko were the only journalists in Mariupol, serving as the world's eyes and ears amid the horrors of the Russian onslaught.

Together they helped expose the extent of the suffering Ukrainians endured, served as a counterweight to Russian disinformation and contributed to the opening of a humanitarian corridor out of Mariupol. They also had to elude capture by Kremlin forces that were hunting for the team.

On Monday, Pulitzer Prize judges cited the work of the three Ukrainian journalists, along with Paris-based Lori Hinnant, in giving The Associated Press the prestigious award for public service.

Seven AP photographers, including Maloletka, also won a breaking news Pulitzer for their coverage of the war, including in Mariupol. The AP was also a finalist for a third award for work in Ukraine, this time for photography focused on the war's impact on the elderly.

This is how the AP should work, Chernov said Monday from Ukraine during a staff celebration of the prizes. This is how we function. All of these people supporting one another and in the end producing work that is supposed to change the world for the better or at least not make it worse.

While the awards are meaningful, it's important to recognize all the suffering and loss at the heart of what the journalists chronicled, said Julie Pace, AP's senior vice president and executive editor.

The reporting, particularly heartbreaking images of civilian bomb victims, had a clear impact. Mariupol officials later credited their work with pressuring Russians to allow an evacuation route, saving thousands of civilian lives.

Their resourceful work, called courageous by the Pulitzer committee, included sneaking out a tiny file of images taken by a Ukrainian medic that was hidden in a tampon.

At one point during the siege, as the noose tightened on them, Chernov and his colleagues were reporting from a hospital treating war wounded. They were given scrubs to wear as camouflage. A group of soldiers burst in and profanely demanded to know where the reporters were.

They wore blue armbands that indicated they were Ukrainian. But were they actually Russians in disguise?

Chernov took a chance, stepped forward and identified himself.

The soldiers were indeed Ukrainian. They loaded the journalists in a car, and they escaped the city, passing through 15 Russian checkpoints.

It's not an overstatement to say the work was a true public service  telling the world of the war's human toll, dispelling Russian disinformation as well as opening the humanitarian corridor, Pace said.

It was ambitious from the very beginning because it had to be, because the stakes were so high for us, for AP, for the team in Mariupol and for the people of the city," Hinnant said Monday on a staff Zoom call. "We thought then that lives would depend on it, and that turned out to be true.

The AP team that won the prize for breaking news photography in Ukraine included Maloletka, his second Pulitzer of the day. Other winners were Bernat Armangue, Emilio Morenatti, Felipe Dana, Nariman El-Mofty, Rodrigo Abd and Vadim Ghirda.

Eight photographers  Maloletka, Armangue, Morenatti, El-Mofty, Girda, David Goldman, Natacha Pisarenko and Petros Giannakouris  were Pulitzer finalists in feature photography for their package on the elderly in Ukraine. Two journalists, Eranga Jayawardena and Rafiq Maqbool, were finalists in breaking news photography for their work covering protests over the economic collapse in Sri Lanka.

To be there is probably more important and more critical than ever," said J. David Ake, APs director of photography. "You cant make the moment that captures the world if youre not there, and being there is often dirty and difficult and dangerous.
U.S. President Joe Biden ordered on Sunday the country's flag to be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the victims of the mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

Biden directed that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations until sunset on May 11, 2023.

He also ordered the flag lowered at all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement are "working closely together to investigate this attack," Biden said, adding that he has asked federal agencies to provide all needed support.

Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer.

"Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar," Biden said in a statement issued on Sunday. "Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables."
Over 1.3 million fentanyl pills, 100 pounds of fentanyl powder and more drugs and firearms were taken off midwestern streets during a yearlong United States Drug Enforcement Administration operation.

The DEA released Friday, May 5, the results of its Operation Long Mile conducted from May 1, 2022, through May 1, 2023. The operation targeted operatives, associates and distributors affiliated with the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels  the two drug cartels based in Mexico responsible for the vast majority of the fentanyl and methamphetamine that is killing Americans.

Fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic opioid more than 50 times more potent than heroin, is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 49, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Between 2019 and 2021, fatal overdoses increased by approximately 94%, with an estimated 196 Americans dying daily from fentanyl.

The DEAs top operational priority is to take down the two cartels, the agency wrote in a Monday press release.

The operation showed that the cartels use violent local street gangs and criminal groups and people across the U.S. to flood American communities with huge amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine, which drives addiction and violence and kills Americans. It also showed that the cartels use social media platforms  like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat  and encrypted platforms  like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Wire and Wickr  to coordinate plans and reach out to victims.

The DEAs St. Louis division, covering Kansas, Missouri and southern Illinois, included 29 investigations and resulted in 72 arrests as well as the seizure of 1.3 million fentanyl pills, 100 pounds of fentanyl powder, more than 200 pounds of methamphetamine, 405 firearms and nearly half a million dollars in assets. The cases involved 50 social media apps and encrypted platforms.

DEA recognizes that even here in the heartland of America, cartels are taking lives from our communities, Special Agent in Charge Michael Davis, DEA St. Louis division chief, said in the Monday release. As Operation Last Mile indicates, we are constantly in search of those taking loved ones away from us through the poison of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Let this serve as a warning: if you are supporting the illegal activities of these drug cartels, we will be looking for you.

Nationally, the operation included 1,436 investigations and resulted in 3,337 arrests and the seizure of nearly 44 million fentanyl pills, over 6,500 pounds of fentanyl powder, 91,000 pounds of methamphetamine, 8,497 firearms and more than $100 million. The powder and pill seizures equate to nearly 193 million deadly doses of fentanyl removed from communities across the U.S. Among the investigations, more than 1,100 cases involved social media apps and encrypted platforms.

The cartels use social media and encrypted platforms to run their operations and reach out to victims, and when their product kills Americans, they simply move on to try to victimize the millions of other Americans who are social media users, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said in the Monday release.

Photo provided/Susan Walsh/AP

The DEA noted that the operation is an example of its network-based approach to eliminating the cartels in the U.S.

Last month, the agency announced that 28 members and associates of the Sinaloa Cartel who operated in Mexico, China and Central America, including the leaders of the cartel known as the Chapitos, were indicted.

Since 2020, drug overdoses have been linked to more than 100,000 deaths annually in the U.S., about two-thirds of which are fentanyl-related, according to reporting by The Associated Press.

More facts about fentanyl are available on the DEAs One Pill Can Kill website.

The DEA will recognize National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2023 on Tuesday, May 9.
SPRINGFIELD  Illinois State Police say any purchase of firearms or attachments the state deems as assault weapons from during the six-day injunction against Illinois gun ban will be illegal after Jan. 1, 2024.

In January Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. Part of that includes a registry of already owned guns starting Oct. 1 with the deadline to register being Jan. 1, 2024.

When the Southern District of Illinois federal court issued a preliminary injunction against Illinois gun ban last month, gun stores were busy. Those sales ended six days later when late last week the appeals court put a stay on the injunction.

After the injunction was reversed while lawsuits continue, state police said firearms purchased during the injunction will be illegal because they were possessed after the Jan. 10 effective day of the Protect Illinois Communities Act.

Persons who possess a banned firearm or firearm attachment are required to endorse an affidavit by January 1, 2024, stating that any banned firearm or firearm attachments were possessed prior to the enactment of PICA (January 10, 2023) pursuant to 720 ILCS 5/24-1.9(d), a public information officer with Illinois State Police told The Center Square in an email.

Penalties for possession of banned magazines is a petty offense with a $1,000 fine per infraction. Possession of prohibited firearms could be up to a Class 2 felony.

Thomas Maag of Wood River was the first attorney to file a lawsuit challenging the law a week after it was enacted in January. He challenged the law on both Second Amendment and Fifth Amendment grounds protecting against self-incrimination. Arguments against the registry were put on hold when his case was consolidated with other plaintiffs groups in the Southern District.

I think that these statements from the Illinois State Police are exactly the kind of thing that shows the Fifth Amendment arguments need to be brought to a head sooner rather than later, Maag told The Center Square.

A registry puts those persons at risk of the state taking that exact information and using it against the owners of those firearms to try to obtain a criminal conviction for what have you, including but not limited to persons that may have acquired firearms during this six-day window, Maag said.

Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson said the ISP statement is yet another issue that the courts will have to address.

Because the way I read it, and the way almost everyone else read it, was that [Southern District of Illinois Judge Stephen McGlynn] said the injunction stopped all that, Pearson told WMAY in Springfield. So I believe theres going to be another suit that deals with this.

McGlynns injunction was stayed by Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Frank Easterbrook on Thursday. Plaintiffs are to reply Tuesday to the stay that Easterbrook issued in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

While the Illinois Gun Dealer Licensing Act enacted several years ago could have state police looking to inspect gun store records, Pearson said theyll be ready to continue challenges in the courts.

I think that they are showing that the state wants to put the bootheels of power on all the necks of the gun owners in this state, and I dont think theyre going to stand for it, Pearson said.

Other litigation against the ban continues in state and federal courts.

Separately, cases brought by attorney Thomas DeVore had a status hearing Friday in Effingham County. DeVore is seeking documents from legislative leaders and third-party associations about the passage of the law. A county judge has taken the motions to dismiss and quash subpoenas under advisement.

Both Caulkins case and Devores cases have thousands of named plaintiffs with temporary restraining orders against the state from enforcing the law. Its unclear how ISPs statement Friday to The Center Square impacts those plaintiffs with TROs in place. The agency didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The current Macon County judgment and any TROs entered in other actions are only applicable to the specific Plaintiffs and Defendants in those actions, the ISP said in a frequently asked question section of the agencys website. More information will be forthcoming as additional rulings transpire through the state and federal courts and when the Illinois Supreme Court rules on the matter.

On Monday, the state and the city of Naperville responded in the U.S. Supreme Court to an emergency motion plaintiffs made for an injunction of the gun ban while that case proceeds through the federal appeals court.

By Thursday, litigants from cases in the Southern and Northern district federal courts are to respond to an order from the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals to consider consolidation.

In state-level court, the Illinois Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments May 16 in a challenge state Rep. Dan Caulkins, R-Decatur, brought out of Macon County. Arguments there include that the law violates equal protections by carving out police, retired police and others in the law enforcement and security sectors.
EDWARDSVILLE  A Granite City man was charged Friday with being a sex offender within a school zone.

Joshua Warren, 28, was charged May 5 with unlawful presence in a school zone by a child sex offender.

The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department.

According to court documents, on May 4 Warren, a child sex offender, allegedly was living within 500 feet of Rivers of Life Christian School in Granite City.

Bail was set at $50,000.

Other felony charges filed May 5 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 David Dunlap, 45, of Alton, was charged with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony, and aggravated battery, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. According to court documents, on April 21 Dunlap allegedly punched a household or family member in the eye, causing a fracture, and on May 1 allegedly struck the same victim in the face with a closed fist. Bail was set at $50,000.

 Timothy R, Bartling, 45, of Collinsville, was charged with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony; and domestic battery (second subsequent offense), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Collinsville Police Department. According to court documents, on May 4 Bartling allegedly strangled a household or family member, pushed her down the stairs and wrapped his legs and arms around the victim." Bail was set at 75,000.

 Callie G. Richardson-Bush, 40, of St. Louis, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of weapons, a Class 4 felony; driving under the influence of a drug, a Class P misdemeanor; and failure to obey a traffic control device, a Class P misdemeanor. The case was presented by the Pontoon Beach Police Department. According to court documents, on June 16, 2022 Richardson-Bush allegedly had a loaded and accessible Springfield XD 9 mm handgun in a vehicle without a Firearm Owners Identification Card or concealed carry permit. He allegedly was operating a Toyota Camry at Illinois 162 and 111 while under the influence of a drug or combination of drugs (Xanax, PCP, cannabinoids and fentanyl) and failed to obey a traffic signal at the intersection. Bail was set at $50,000.
This conversation never happened and never would. Robber 1: Were all set to pull the job. Weve just got one thing to check. Whats that? asks Robber 2.

Whos in the White House? I mean, if its a Republican, we should lay low because theyre the law and order party. But if its a Democrat, we can go in blasting because everyone knows theyre soft on crime.

But wait, replies Robber 2, we got these guns yesterday with no waiting period or background check because of our Republican governor. So does that mean we should go or not go? We go, said Robber 1, and if a bank teller gets shot while were at it, we just tell the police we were standing our ground.

This ridiculous conversation is penned to make a point. Criminals dont check whether the President is a Republican or a Democrat prior to making their move. Burglars dont check the residents voting records to decide whether to break in. Armed robbers dont send thank you cards to their mayor for opposing gun safety laws. Rapists dont care about womens reproductive rights. Carjackers dont show up at city council meetings to discuss pedestrian safety.

Overall crime is down 49% when compared to statistics from 1993. Similarly, robbery is down 68% and murder is down 47%. As crime rates have steadily dropped, the White House has changed hands delivering both Republican and Democratic occupants and the crime rates steadily declined during both. Most rates bottomed out during the pandemic lock down and now that society has reopened, we are witnessing an uptick in crime statistics. But criminal activity is nowhere near what it was thirty years ago.

Republican claims that Democrats are responsible for the small increase in crime rates are entirely bogus. And their new fake attack ad against Biden using artificial intelligence, that suggests that if reelected Biden would need to use the military to quell crime, is the worst kind of dangerous fearmongering.

The facts are that in 2021 Biden signed into law bills to provide $140 million in grants to 183 law enforcement agencies to hire an additional 1,000 officers; including a bill to provide health and injury benefits to first responders injured in the line of duty more promptly and to reflect cost of living increases; and another bill to allow greater jurisdiction to law enforcement in dealing with terrorists and operators of drug cartels.

While Bidens proposed budget increases funding of law enforcement, MAGA Republicans want to defund the FBI and the IRS. What is obvious is that MAGA Republicans want white collar criminals given a free pass (starting with Trump) while bemoaning any increase in property crimes. Its their ol you can cheat the U.S. Treasury out of millions in taxes, but you better not shoplift tonights dinner.

As for dinner, the Republican budget proposal, which attempts to blackmail Democrats into budget negotiations using the debt ceiling as hostage, proposes a reduction in the availability of food stamps and other family assistance, because everyone knows that hungry people made poorer are less likely to steal.

Republicans also proposed cuts that would reduce the number of border patrol agents, which Biden recently increased by over 20,000 to further combat illegal immigration and fentynal trafficking. But in their zeal to reduce the federal budget and despite their rhetoric about crime and the southern border, the draconian cuts proposed by Republicans would reduce funding for law enforcement.

It is obvious that Republicans care little about crime except as a ridiculous attempt to blame Democrats. Further, it is apparent that Republicans only care about crime committed by persons with limited incomes or who come from marginalized communities. If you steal from the public or if you engage in tax fraud or if you wish to storm the Capitol in support of Donald Trump, they say youre eligible for a pardon or at least a reduced sentence.

Meanwhile, Republicans deny murder rates and the number of victims would be reduced by laws to restrict the sales of assault weapons, high capacity magazines, and carnage producing bullets. So when you are considering crime as an election issue, take a look and see who is confronting and addressing the causes rather than just pointing fingers. Then see what GOP fearmongering has done for Ralph Yarl, Kaylin Gillis, Kinsley White, Heather Roth and other injured children who were needlessly shot. Each by a weapon that should never have been sold.
Four people were confirmed dead in an airplane crash over the weekend in the U.S. state of Colorado, according to local authorities on Monday, Trend reports citing Xinhua.

The coroner's office of Teller County, Colorado, identified the four victims of the small aircraft crash on Saturday.

The aircraft left the Fremont County Airport around local time 9:30 a.m. Saturday, bound for Centennial Airport near Denver, but never made it, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which has launched a joint investigation with the Federal Aviation Administration.

The wreckage was found early Sunday, nearly a day after the plane failed to arrive at its destination, the NTSB said, adding that it had not determined the cause in the early part of the investigative process.

The aircraft, a single-engine Pool-Cessna T-41B2, crashed into the mountains southeast of Victor and caught on fire, the NTSB said.

A preliminary report may be available in about 10 to 12 business days. A typical NTSB investigation can take 12 to 24 months to complete and determine the cause.
After Go First, will it be SpiceJet second? Silly puns apart, the woes befalling Indias airliners and all that turbulence on the ground does not augur well for a happy journey, as far as the Indian domestic passenger is concerned.

While it was its own promoters, the Wadias, who have taken Go First to insolvency court, fellow budget carrier SpiceJet is facing rebellion from its creditors, who had filed a case for it to be declared insolvent. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) took cognisance of a plea by Ireland-based aircraft lessor Aircastle on Monday by issuing notice to the Gurugram-based airline.

The plea is based on SpiceJet not paying dues for leasing four Boeing 737 aircraft from Aircastle. The court issued notice to SpiceJet, posting the matter for hearing for next Wednesday.

SpiceJet, promoted by entrepreneur and ruling party confidante Ajay Singh, meanwhile acted as if it was business as usual, arguing that there was no adverse ruling against SpiceJet and that notice was issued in normal course. A statement issued by the airline said, The court has recognised the fact that parties (SpiceJet and Aircastle) are under settlement discussions and they can continue to pursue the same.

This is the second time in as many years that SpiceJet is facing existential worries in a court of law. After a case by Credit Suisse AG on behalf of SR Technics, a global maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO in short in aviation parlance) service provider for not paying up dues amounting to $24 million, the Madras High Court had ordered winding up of the airline back in December 2021. The airline just about managed to escape the noose following appeals.

Of course, SpiceJet may prove itself to be the proverbial cat with nine lives. Its history itself is an unending saga of surviving one crisis after another, from Singh being forced to sell off the airline he founded to the Marans in the 2000s, buying it back from near-doom under the Marans around 2014, its entire Boeing 737 Max fleet grounded following global mishaps in 2019, the pandemic shutting down all operations, planes being grounded on safety issues and now, to unending creditor woes.

After a recent hiving off of its profitable cargo business as well as a conversion of debt into equity with Miamis Carlyle Aviation, the airline is now actually in a better position than it ever has been for many many years. The hiving off of SpiceXpress had gained the loss-making airline Rs 2,555 crore through the issuance of securities that are a mix of equity shares and compulsorily convertible debentures.

It is the DNA of SpiceJet: we refuse to die, Singh had said at a recent aviation summit in Delhi.

Which may be just as well, because after Go First stopped flying, for all practical purposes, the Indian aviation scene just cannot afford another folding up. As such the trail is long  with one estimate saying at least one airline has folded up every year since the Indian skies were liberalised in the early nineties. Kingfisher and Jet Airways are only just the best known amongst these.

Now, the worry is over the future of affordable air travel in the country  once Tata completes its mergers of low-cost operator AirAsia India into Air India Express and full-service carrier Vistara into Air India, the number of pan-Indian domestic operators will reduce to just four airlines  Indigo, Air India, SpiceJet and recent new entrant Akasa.

It remains to be seen if the new avatar of Air India Express, after budget domestic carrier AirAsia India is assimilated into it, will operate as a domestic low-cost airline, since the present version operates budget flights from Indian cities to the Gulf countries only. But AirAsia India, for whatever it is worth, held a market share of 7.3 per cent in the January-March period of this year, and it is unlikely that Tata will forfeit that to a rival by not having a budget domestic alternative to its full-service flagship.

Any which way, with Indigo at nearly 60 per cent market share and Air Indias group airlines at around 25 per cent (calculated based on market share of Air India, Vistara and AirAsia India together), the market is already as good as a duopoly. Which in itself doesnt sound bon voyage to the average Indian hoping for competitive, and affordable, travel in the skies. Any further calumny befalling even one of the smaller players, then, would be unthinkable.
Kerala should give more importance to virology research since the state faces a higher risk of virus-related incidence compared to other parts of the country, a NITI Aayog member has said.

NITI Aayog member Vinod Kumar Paul was speaking at the inauguration of the Department of Biotechnology - Scientific Infrastructure Access for Harnessing Academia University Research Joint Collaboration (DBT-SAHAJ) at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) here on Saturday.

He said Kerala is expected to be the entry point of various viral diseases and also urged the state to make efforts in geriatric care.

Paul said the initiatives made by Kerala in the health sector could be followed by the rest of the country.

Lauding the initiatives of RGCB in virology research, Paul said the institution has to design additional programmes in the field urgently.

"Considering the demographic transition-related health challenges faced by Kerala, the state should make more efforts in the area of geriatric care and could think about creating diagnostics that are useful in primary care centres. The initiatives made by the state can be followed by the rest of the country," he said.

Urging researchers to take the path of excellence, Paul said the country wanted relentless hard work from youth and the work of the highest quality of excellence.

In his address, Secretary of GoI's Department of Biotechnology Rajesh S Gokhale emphasised the urgent need to achieve further growth in the bio-manufacturing domain in the country by leveraging new technologies.

RGCB Director Prof Dr Chandrabhas Narayana said the institution had envisaged comprehensive projects in the field of research and also for developing state-of-the-art infrastructure.

RGCB, an autonomous institution under the GoI's Department of Biotechnology, gave a detailed presentation on the cancer research programmes of the institution.

The primary goal of DBT-SAHAJ infrastructure is to create a national service facility, research resource, and serve as a platform to provide access to resources that cannot be provided by any single researcher's laboratory.
The BJP on Monday filed a complaint with the Election Commission against former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi over the statement that the party would not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's "reputation, sovereignty or integrity", and requested it to issue direction for registration of an FIR against her over the use of the word "sovereignty".

Noting that a "sovereign" by definition is an independent nation, the complaint said, "When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. India is a sovereign country and the state of Karnataka is a proud part in it. Till today no one raised any question about the integrity of Kannadigas with the sovereignty of the nation."

The complaint added: "The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India. This statement is divisive in nature; it is aimed at dividing the citizens and creating a rift between two people of different states. Karnataka is not different from India. This is a shocking statement leading to igniting divisive sentiments and to create disharmony in the society."

The Congress, referring to Gandhi's speech at a campaign rally at Hubballi on Saturday, said in a tweet that "The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity". It added that the Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson "sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas", and also posted pictures of her speaking at the public meeting.

Describing this statement as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Gandhi had violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement".

Karandlaje, Convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, also requested the EC to issue direction to register FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

"This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for India's independence. It is an insult to crores of patriotic Kannadigas, who swear by India and cherish their Indianness," said the Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare.

The statement would lead to division on the basis of language and statehood, the complaint alleged.
The Harvard Universitys Radcliffe Institute announced that biologist Dr S.D. Biju will be one of its 20232024 fellows. Biju has been awarded the Sarah and Daniel Hrdy Fellowship in conservation biology. He is currently a senior professor Department of Environmental Studies at the University of Delhi. He is also an Associate of the Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University.



Thanks to his untiring field work among amphibians in India, Biju earned the moniker Frog Man of India. Over three decades, he has discovered over a hundred new species across India and in south Asia. Last November, he was awarded Keralas third highest state honour, Kerala Sree, in honour of his highly original body of work.



He has two PhDsthe first in botany from the University of Calicut and the second in animal science from Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium.

A Harvard University statement said that at Radcliffe Biju will expedite efforts to outpace nameless extinctions in Indias amphibian hotspots through discovery and documentation of species and identification of key biodiversity areas for conservation prioritisation". He will have on-site collaborations with Harvard faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students, and will have access to the rich specimen collections of the Museum of Comparative Zoology.



The Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard Universityknown as Harvard Radcliffe Instituteis one of the worlds leading centres for interdisciplinary research and exploration. Biju is the 60th fellow representing biological sciences in 23 years of this programme and only the second fellow in this discipline from India.



It is a great honour to be part of the Harvards Radcliffe community. I look forward to joining an extraordinary cohort of Radcliffe Fellows and advancing my missions in such an academically rich and diverse environment, said Biju.



Disappointingly for his admirers, an honour that evaded Biju recently is the chance to have a frog he described as the state amphibian of Kerala. The Indian purple frog or pignose frog is considered a living fossil with a long evolutionary history. It was first described from Keralas Idukki district in 2003 by Biju and Franky Bossuyt, head of the Amphibian Evolution Lab at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Despite being strongly recommended, the frog missed out for a strange reasonit lives underground and comes up only for a day in a year! The state government reportedly wanted a more visible amphibian. Kerala still does not have a state amphibian.
The campaigning for Karnataka Assembly elections will end on Monday with senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Maharashtra chief minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde meeting voters on the last day.

While Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are already in the state, actively involved in the campaign. Rahul met with gig workers and delivery partners in Bengaluru on Sunday and is expected to meet more voters at a local cafe in the capital city on Monday.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge too several public meetings scheduled for the day.

Buoyed by pre-poll surveys predicting an edge for the party, the Congress had unleashed intense campaigning, led by state leaders Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar, in Karnataka. The presence of Kharge, who hails from the state, is said to have boosted the party's prospects.

Unlike Gujarat, the Karnataka elections too saw the party's top leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi crisscrossing the state. The duo camped in the state for several days and in public meetings, hit out at the BJP for alleged corruption. The rallies conducted by the Gandhis also saw a good turnout.

The Congress capped up the campaigning by roping in former AICC president Sonia Gandhi, who addressed a party rally in Hubballi on Saturday. The party has set a target of winning 150 seats.

As for the BJP, Monday's campaign will be helmed by Eknath Shinde who has roadshows scheduled at Kapu and Udupi town. Before heading to Udupi, Shinde will visit the Sri Manjunatha Swamy Temple. He will then meet the Dharmasthala temple's Dharmadhikari, Veerendra Hegde, BJP sources said. He is also expected to visit the Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi before returning home the same day.

The party's main weapon in the campaign was obviously Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who drew in a huge crowd. Even before the poll dates were announced, Modi had been in the state seven times to unveil government schemes and projects. He also addressed numerous meetings of beneficiaries of the government's various schemes.

Modi attended 18 mega public meetings and six road shows across the state, canvassing votes for BJP candidates with the poll slogan 'Ee Baariya Nirdhara, Bahumatada BJP Sarkara' (This Time's Decision: Majority BJP Government).

The party is hopeful that Modi's campaigning across the state will convert into votes and will help it retain power.

Besides Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief Naddha too travelled extensively through the state,

campaigning and strategising for the polls. Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled states like Uttar Pradesh's Yogi Adiyanath, Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madya Pradesh's Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Goa's Pramod Sawant as well as Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar, Smriti Irani, Nitin Gadkari, too campaigned for the party.

As for another prominent party JD(S), the election is crucial as it might emerge as a king-maker in the event of a hung Assembly.

Plagued by desertions, internal rifts, and with the image of being a "family party", Gowda's son Kumaraswamy has in a way single-handedly managed the JD(S) campaign across the state, with the ageing father taking the back seat. However. 89-year-old former Prime Minister Deve Gowda campaigned for JD(S) candidates in the past couple of weeks, especially in the party bastion of the Old Mysuru region.
As the row over Karnataka's "sovereignty" remark escalated with the BJP on Monday moving the Election Commission seeking an FIR against Sonia Gandhi and her party's derecognition, the poll panel asked the Congress to clarify and rectify the party's social media post attributed to Gandhi.

The EC sent a letter to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge after the BJP complaint regarding a tweet that appeared on the official Twitter handle of the Indian National Congress on May 6.

In its complaint, the BJP has alleged, "Karnataka is a very important member state in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous & pernicious consequences.

The BJP also alleged in its complaint to the EC that the tweet is violative of the mandatory oath undertaken by the political parties under section 29A (5) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 at the time of registration.

"In view of the above, you are requested to clarify and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the INC Twitter handle and attributed to Chairperson, CPP," the EC letter read.

A former Congress chief, Sonia Gandhi is currently the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) chairperson.

After Gandhi addressed a campaign rally in Hubballi in Karnataka on Saturday, the Congress tweeted from its official handle: "CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: 'The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity'."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue in his public meetings on Sunday to launch a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing the party of openly advocating for "separating" Karnataka from India.

Modi alleged that the disease of the "tukde-tukde gang" (anti-national elements) has reached the Congress' top level.

Several BJP leaders attacked the Congress over the "sovereignty" remark. Union minister Anurag Thakur said, "By referring to 'Karnataka's sovereignty', Sonia Gandhi Ji, you have revealed the Congress' deep conspiracy to disintegrate India."

However, Congress general secretary in-charge of Karnataka Randeep Surjewala hit back and claimed that the "desperation of the prime minister and BJP is glaring as they seek to clutch at straws for want of a narrative in Karnataka".

On the last day of the campaign for the May 10 assembly elections in Karnataka, Surjewala said Prime Minister Narendra Modi should speak out on corruption charges against his party's government and added that excuses cannot be the refuge of the BJP in this election.

"We reject the fakery and falsehood being perpetuated by PM as he refuses to answer a single question on why BJP is denigrating the 'swabhimaan' of Karnataka," the Congress leader said when asked about the BJP's charge on "sovereignty" remark.

"...If raising the issues of Kannada pride being compromised is a crime, we consider it our 'dharma' to do so again and again," the Congress leader told PTI.

Amid the row, the Election Commission on Monday also asked the Karnataka BJP to provide "verifiable and traceable" facts by Tuesday evening regarding its newspaper advertisement aimed at the opposition party.

The Congress had approached the poll panel against the advertisement issued by the BJP's Karnataka unit.

The EC said if no proof is provided, the BJP should come up with reasons as to why action should not be initiated for violating the MCC and relevant legal provisions under the Representation of the People Act and the Indian Penal Code.

Before the high-octane campaigning ended this evening, a BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll panel in Delhi over the "sovereignty" remark attributed to Sonia Gandhi and the party also demanded an FIR against her.

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh, who was part of the delegation besides BJP MP Anil Baluni and leader Om Pathak, cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

Citing the Congress tweets, the BJP in its memorandum to the poll watchdog alleged that such a comment is a well-considered "evil design" to provoke the staunch nationalists, peace-loving, progressive and globally recognised people of Karnataka.

The intent apparently is to disturb the equanimity, harmony and peace to garner votes and support some select communities or groups, whose sole purpose and intent is to disrupt the very being of the Indian state, it claimed.

The BJP also filed a complaint with the Election Commission in Bengaluru and requested it to issue a direction for the registration of an FIR against Gandhi over the use of the word "sovereignty".

Noting that a "sovereign" by definition is an independent nation, the complaint said, "When a country becomes independent, that country is called a sovereign country. India is a sovereign country and the state of Karnataka is a proud part of it. Till today no one raised any question about the integrity of Kannadigas with the sovereignty of the nation."

The complaint added, "The meaning of what Congress is saying is that the Congress believes that Karnataka is separate from India. This statement is divisive in nature.

"It is aimed at dividing the citizens and creating a rift between people of different states. Karnataka is not different from India. This is a shocking statement leading to igniting divisive sentiments and creating disharmony in the society."

Describing the Congress' tweet quoting Gandhi as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Gandhi had violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement".

Karandlaje, the convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, also requested the EC to issue directions to register an FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

"This is an insult to freedom fighters from Karnataka, who fought for India's independence. It is an insult to crores of patriotic Kannadigas, who swear by India and cherish their Indianness," said the Union Minister of State for Agriculture.

The statement would lead to division on the basis of language and statehood, the complaint alleged.

Polling to elect 224 members of the Karnataka assembly will be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13.
With the curfew relaxed in the violence-hit Manipur, the life is slowly limbing back to normalcy. The ethnic clashes that broke out between the Meiteis and the tribals over the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status paved way for the matter to reach the Supreme Court (SC). SC is set to hear a batch of pleas on the Manipur situation on Monday.

SC bench of Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justices P.S Narashima and J.B Pardiwala will hear a batch of pleas.

The bench is set to hear three petitions including one by BJP MLA challenging the high court order on the issue of ST status to the Meitei community and also PIL by tribal group for an SIT probe into the recent violence in Manipur.

Also, the State Home Department has directed the district magistrates to relax the curfew in 11 districts, Times of India report said.

Curfew will be partially lifted in Imphal East, Imphal West districts, Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Kakching, Jiribam, Bishnupur, Pherzawal, Chandel, Churachandpur and Tengnoupal.

On Sunday, the restrictions were relaxed in Churachandpur from 7 am to 10 am to allow people to buy essential items such as food and medicines. On Monday the curfew will be relaxed in Imphal West district from 5 am to 8 pm.

Meanwhile, the government has come forward showing willingness to talk to the groups in the state to resolve their issues.

"Please come forward to solve the issues in a peaceful manner. The government is ready. You have seen the farmers issue. When it was peaceful, we tried to convince them. As the issue was not resolved, we agreed to their demand, and those bills (three farm laws were withdrawn. So the government is not adamant," G. Kishan Reddy was quoted by PTI.

"We should resolve the issues through discussions, and not through violence. Nothing can be achieved through violence," the Union Minister said.

On the recent violence that broke out in Manipur, Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor called for imposing President's rule. "The voters of the Manipur are feeling grossly betrayed just a year after putting the BJP in power in their state" Tharoor said in his tweet.

People fleeing to Mizoram

Around 600 people has so far fled to Mizoram from violence-hit Manipur. The majority of those rescued from the violence-hit areas are lodged in temporary camps in several villages.

Over 23,000 civilians were rescued by the Army from the violence-hit areas. The violence has claimed over 50 lives.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his support to help improve the situation in the violence-hit state.
Communist Party of India (CPI)

New Delhi,

May 5, 2023

Press Release

The National Secretariat of the Communist Party of India issued the following statement today (05th May 2023) on the Manipur situation:

Reports of violence and arson coming from the state of Manipur are matters of serious concern for the entire nation. The ongoing turmoil in Manipur is a direct result of the policy of dividing the people pursued by the so-called double engine government of the BJP. Divide and strife between people were encouraged for electoral gains and has resulted in strategically located state like Manipur being engulfed by all-encompassing violence. This violence has a background of divisions and it cannot be controlled enduringly by using force. This is testimony to the failure of the Manipur policy pursued by the Union Home Ministry and the State Government.

Many people have lost their lives and a greater number is displaced. Burning of houses and shops is widespread. Conflict reaching alarming levels of violence is disheartening and shows that the people of Manipur are losing their confidence in the state.

CPI understands the conflict as a political and social conflict and not merely a law and order issue. The CPI demands of the Union Home Ministry and the State Government of Manipur to reach out to all stakeholders and political parties for the immediate cessation of hostilities. A political solution to the crisis should be reached by taking all opinions and people into confidence and restoring normalcy and peace in Manipur. CPI appeals to all sections of the people of Manipur to maintain peace and tranquility.

(Roykutty)

Office-Secretary
An Egyptian-mediated ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip came into effect at 10pm local time (1900 GMT) on Saturday evening, ending five days of Israeli aggression on the strip.
The Supreme Court on Monday sent a notice to the Bihar government over former MP Anand Mohan's premature release from prison. Mohan, convicted for killing IAS officer G. Krishnaiah, walked free last month following a change in the state government's prison rules.

The apex court's move came as it heard a plea by the slain IAS officer's wife, Uma Krishnaiah, challenging the release of the gangster-turned-politician. Responding to the SC directive, she said: We are happy that the Supreme Court has responded positively and issued a notice to the Bihar government and to other people who are involved in it. They have to reply within 2 weeks.

Krishnaiah was lynched by a mob led by Mohan in 1994. The gangster was convicted to life imprisonment, but was released from Saharsa jail last month following an amendment in Bihar's prison rules. His name figured in a list of more than 20 prisoners who were ordered to be set free by a notification issued by the Bihar government's Law department as they had spent more than 14 years behind bars.

In her plea, Uma argued that relevant factors such as conduct of the prisoner in the jail, past criminal antecedents have been ignored, Live Law stated. It was further argued that the amendment of the state remission policy to facilitate Mohan's release is contrary to public policy and would amount to demoralising public servants.

The Indian Civil and Administrative Service (Central) Association had also released a statement in which it said Mohan's release is 'tantamount to the denial of justice'. The organisation representing IAS officers serving in Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre has also expressed solidarity with Krishnaiah's family and urged Bihar ro reconsider its decision.
The Delhi High Court has questioned the Tihar jail authorities on why they failed to take "preventive or remedial action" when gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death inside the jail.

Tillu, an accused in the Rohini courthouse shootout, was stabbed to death inside Tihar on May 2 by the rival gang members. Disturbing CCTV footage showed the men dragging and stabbing Tillu multiple times while the police personnel stayed mute spectators.



The Delhi High Court was considering the petition filed by Tillu's father and brother seeking an investigation by the CBI into the murder.



Justice Jasmeet Singh, while issuing a notice to the Director General of Prisons (Delhi), Delhi government and the Commissioner of Police, questioned the jail authorities over the recovery of four knives from the jail premises. Singh also ordered the authorities to file an affidavit as to how four knives were found in prison.



It also listed the matter for further hearing on May 25 and asked the jail superintendent to be present in the court on the next date of hearing.



To the petitioners' plea seeking adequate security for themselves, the High Court directed the Delhi Police to ensure their safety and security.



Meanwhile, the seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who were on duty at the prison cell when Tajpuriya was murdered, have been sent back home. They were suspended three days ago following the incident.



The Tamil Nadu Police issued an order to send back seven of its special force personnel after the Director General of Prisons in Delhi wrote to TNSP. The DG urged the TNSP to take action against the personnel who stayed mute spectators when the gangster was murdered.



Meanwhile, a jail official told The Indian Express that the siren button inside the jail where Tillu was lodged was not working on the day.



"An enquiry was conducted and we also found that the siren button inside the jail number 8 was not working at that time. It appears several inmates had tried to press the button and alert police and jail officials but it wasnt working. We are checking this and will take legal action," the official added.


West Bengal became the first state to ban controversial Bollywood film The Kerala Story which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to the IS terror camp after being converted to Islam.

The Trinamool Congress government banned the movie to maintain peace and to avoid incidents of hatred and violence in the state.

"What was 'The Kashmir Files'? It was meant purely to humiliate a particular section of society. What is 'The Kerala Story'? It is a distorted story, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, announcing the government's decision.

Banerjee has given direction to officials to ensure the movie has been removed from all theatres where it is being screened.

Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the producer of the film, said they will pursue legal options against the West Bengal government's decision.

The Kerala Story, directed by Sudipto Sen, has sparked off a political outrage with the opposition parties, including the Congress and the ruling CPI(M) in Kerala, terming it an 'RSS propaganda' to defame a particular community.

The BJP, however, has threw its wight behind the film with the Madhya Pradesh government already making it tax free in the state. Uttar Pradesh minister Brajesh Pathak said his government, too, will not oppose any proposal to grant similar status in the state.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on Sunday said those who are opposing the film are supporting the agenda of terror group PFI as well the ISIS.

Meanwhile, the multiplexes across Tamil Nadu have cancelled screenings of the controversial film from Sunday, citing law and order issues and poor public response.
Afghanistan's interim Taliban regime Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has asked Pakistan and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to sit together for a dialogue, amid a sharp increase in deadly attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

"It is requested that Pakistan and TTP sit together for dialogue," Muttaqi, who is here on a four-day visit to Pakistan to attend bilateral and trilateral dialogues, said while addressing an event in Islamabad on Monday, Geo News reported.

Pakistan had held several rounds of talks - brokered by the Afghan Taliban - with the TTP but the negotiations failed last year after which the militant group resumed terror activities. Pakistan has witnessed a surge in TTP violence since the militant group formally ended the ceasefire on November 28.

The TTP has become a thorny issue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan expected the Afghan Taliban to address its concerns regarding the TTP after its return to power in August 2021. But contrary to the expectations, the TTP attacks only went up.

The TTP, which has ideological linkages with the Afghan Taliban and is also known as the Pakistan Taliban, was set up as an umbrella group of several militant outfits in 2007. Its main aim is to impose its strict brand of Islam across Pakistan.

The Afghan Taliban's reluctance to take on the TTP stemmed from its fears that the group's fighters might join Da'esh (Islamic State). Second, the Afghan Taliban and the TTP share the same ideology as they fought alongside the US-led foreign forces.

Nevertheless, the two sides have been trying to find a way out of the TTP problem as it has threatened to undermine their future cooperation, according to the paper.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif last month warned Afghanistan's Taliban rulers about targeting terrorist hideouts inside the war-torn neighbouring country if the latter were unable to rein in anti-Pakistan militants. He had earlier said that the banned TTP was using Afghan soil for carrying out attacks in Pakistan.

The TTP, which is believed to have close links to al-Qaeda, has in the past also threatened to target Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari if the ruling coalition continued to implement strict measures against the militants.

The TTP was set up as an umbrella group of several militant outfits in 2007. Its main aim is to impose its strict brand of Islam across Pakistan.

The group has been blamed for several deadly attacks across Pakistan, including an attack on army headquarters in 2009, assaults on military bases and the 2008 bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

In 2012, Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai was attacked by TTP. She suffered bullet injuries and was admitted to the Military Hospital (CMH) Peshawar and then taken to London for further treatment. The TTP claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that Yousafzai was a 'Western-minded girl'.

In 2014, the Pakistani Taliban stormed the Army Public School (APS) in the northwestern city of Peshawar, killing at least 150 people, including 131 students. The attack sent shockwaves across the world and was widely condemned.
Chinese police on Sunday detained a man for allegedly disseminating fake news on a train crash using the artificial intelligence software ChatGPT. The arrest was reportedly the first for misuse of ChatGPT.

The South China Morning Post reported that the Gansu police arrested a man with the surname Hong on charges of using artificial intelligence technology to concoct false and untrue information. The publication reported that the 'fake' news was spotted by the cyber division of a county police bureau and the news reportedly claimed nine died in a local train accident on April 25.

Kongtong County's cybersecurity officers also found the article simultaneously posted by more than 20 accounts on Baijiahao, a blog-style platform run by Chinese search engine giant Baidu. According to reports, the stories received over 15,000 clicks by the time it caught authorities' attention.

This was the first time an arrest under China's new regulations to check the use of deepfake technology was made public. Chinese government in January introduced the 'Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis for Internet Information Service' to check the use of deep synthesis. The provisions define deep synthesis as the use of technologies  including deep learning and augmented reality  to generate text, images, audio and video and to create virtual scenarios, SCMP reported. According to reports, the regulation mandates users should clearly label to prevent public confusion.

The Gansu public security department said Hong was suspected of the crime of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble", a charge that normally carries a maximum sentence of five years. But in cases that are deemed especially severe, offenders can be jailed for 10 years and given additional penalties, the Post reported.

A statement issued by police said, Hong confessed to bypassing Baijiahao's duplication check function to publish on multiple accounts he had acquired. He input the elements of trending social stories in China from past years into ChatGPT to quickly produce different versions of the same fake story and uploaded them to his Baijiahao accounts.

Though ChatGPT isn't directly available in China, it could be accessed using a reliable VPN connection.

China's top internet regulator has long voiced concern that unchecked development and use of deep synthesis technology could lead to its use in criminal activities such as online scams or defamation.

As ChatGPT has gone viral in recent months, China's law enforcement agencies have repeatedly voiced suspicion, and even warnings, about the technology.

"In one of the first comments on the chatbot made by the Chinese security apparatus, police in Beijing specifically warned the public in February to be wary of rumours generated by ChatGPT," the Post reported.

(With PTI inputs.)
China's foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must reflect deeply before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said.



Qin Gang's comments follow a suspension of serious dialogue on a range of issues between the world's largest economies, increasingly at odds over tariffs, attempts by Washington to deprive China of cutting-edge technology, and China's claims to self-governing Taiwan and large parts of the South and East China Seas.

China's Foreign Ministry quoted Qin as telling Ambassador Nicolas Burns that a series of erroneous words and deeds by the U.S." since a meeting in November between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping "have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations.

The U.S. side should reflect deeply, meet China halfway, and propel China-U.S. relations out of the difficulties and back on the right track, Qin was quoted as saying.

The United States should correct its understanding of China and return to rationality, Qin said, repeating his earlier accusation that the U.S. is attempting to suppress and contain China. Beijing routinely cites U.S. political and military support of Taiwan as infringing on its sovereignty.

Qin said ties had grown icy and the priority was to stabilize them "and avoid a downward spiral and unanticipated events.

The U.S. should stop undermining China's sovereignty, security, and development interests, particularly through support of Taiwan's independent identity, Qin said.

China says Taiwan must come under its rule, by force if necessary, while the U.S. says the relationship between the sides must be resolved peaceably. U.S. law requires it to treat threats to Taiwan, including a military blockade, as a matter of grave concern, though it remains ambiguous under what conditions U.S. forces could be dispatched to defend the island.

Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, the U.S. is Taiwan's largest supplier of military hardware and diplomatic support, even while it continues to maintain relations with Beijing. Biden has been seen as going a step further by repeatedly saying that the U.S. would back Taiwan militarily, and America has been upgrading basing arrangements with the Philippines, located just south of Taiwan.

U.S.-China military contacts have been on hold for years, and China's top staff refused to answer a call from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after then-Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last year. China retaliated for the visit by staging a naval and air force blockade of Taiwan and cutting off channels of communication with the U.S. on issues from environmental protection to maritime security.

At a daily briefing Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning described the meeting between Qin and Burns as a normal diplomatic arrangement."

In a tweet, Burns said he met with Qin and discussed challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication.

Contacts between the sides have been fraught for months since U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a Beijing trip aimed at easing U.S.-China tensions in February. That came after a large high-altitude Chinese balloon was shot down after it sailed across the U.S., drawing Pentagon accusations of spying on sensitive military sites despite firm Chinese denials.
The European Union's Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is travelling to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy.

The 27-nation bloc traditionally marks its peace and unity on May 9. On Monday, Zelenskyy announced his country would equally celebrate the day together with all of free Europe.

Von der Leyen has already visited Kyiv on several occasions since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine 14 months ago.

She has been a major driver in providing support for the embattled nation and in setting sanctions targeting the Kremlin.

Zelenskyy was in the Netherlands only last week, where he urged speed in having the EU welcome Ukraine as a member.

Ukraine is officially a candidate for membership but formal negotiations have yet to begin a process that could take many years.
Gary Prado Salmon, the Bolivian General who captured Communist revolutionary Che Guevara in a military operation died on Sunday. He was aged 84.

Gary's son, Gary Prado Arauz posted on Facebook, The Lord just called into His Kingdom my father. He was accompanied by his wife and children. He leaves us a legacy of love, honesty and grace. He was an extraordinary person. Thank you to everyone who supported us in this time of agony.

In 1967, Salmon was in charge of a patrol in southwestern Bolivia that captured Che Guevara who was injured during the military operation. The operation against the communist rebels was backed by the United States. Che was captured on October 8, 1967, and was executed a day later. The Bolivian Parliament, which was then under military regime declared Salmon a national hero.

Since 1981 Gen Prado had been a wheelchair user, after a bullet fired accidentally hit him in the spine, BBC reported. He retired from the army in 1988 and authored a book about his 1967 triumph, called 'How I Captured Che'.

The BBC quoted Salmon's son Arauz as saying, For him, capturing Che was not the most important thing he did in his life - rather, it was to contribute to making the armed forces a democratic institution that would respect the constitution and laws.
Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.



Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region. China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistan's volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment.

Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items. After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war. The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

Pakistan has lately expressed concern over a surge of deadly attacks across the country by the Pakistani Taliban an independent militant group that is allied with and sheltered by the Afghan Taliban.

Islamabad has demanded from the Taliban in Kabul that they do more to rein in anti-Pakistani groups such as the Pakistani Taliban also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP which have stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.
Nagpur, May 8 (PTI) Two policemen, including a DySP-rank officer, were injured on Monday when a peaceful protest by more than 2,000 workers of a textile company turned violent in the Butibori Industrial Area of Maharashtra's Nagpur district, an official said.

The workers of Morarji Textiles Company, protesting in support of their demands, pelted stones at police personnel deployed on duty at the demonstration site, causing head injuries to deputy superintendent of police (DySP) Bhimrao Tele and sub-inspector PSI Jagdish Paliwar, he said.

In response, the police resorted to cane-charge to control the violent crowd, said the official.

The police official said some workers first consumed poison and then climbed onto a water tank to draw attention to their plight.

The workers became agitated when the company management did not take notice of their protest and they began throwing stones at police personnel, he said.

The workers have been protesting for the past 13 days in support of their various demands. Their demands included payment of regular salary, bonus, compensation for layoff as well as reinstatement of suspended employees.

There has been no reaction from the company to the protest so far.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi met on Thursday morning with a number of senior military commanders at the State Strategic Command Centre, Egypts Presidential Spokesperson Ahmed Fahmy said in a statement.
BENGALURU, India, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 4point2 Technologies Pvt. Ltd, a leading tech company, is proud to announce the development of an innovative augmented reality technology that is revolutionizing the way voters engage with political campaigns. This technology is currently being used in the Congress campaign by D.K Shiva Kumar for the ongoing Karnataka elections. It is providing an immersive and interactive way for communicating the candidates' messages.



One of the features of this technology is the life-like holographic speech, which allows D. K. Shiva Kumar to speak to IT professionals & other corporate sectors at their offices or visit their apartment flats for door-to-door campaigns. In this way it is easy to break the barriers of traditional campaigning methods where these sectors where not touched upon due to its accessibility. For the first time, D.K. Shivakumar and other Congress candidates will reach out to these segments in their offices and homes.



This technology can be used by all 224 constituency candidates, supporters, and followers.



The technology also includes a feature where the Congress Guarantee Card given to households by the congress party can be scanned. Through the AR Technology, Mr. D.K. Shivakumar appears to talk about the Congress guarantee card benefits, providing links for voters to register for each of those benefits. This feature is designed to provide voters with a comprehensive understanding of Congress's vision for Karnataka and its promises to voters.



In addition to these features, voters can take photos with D.K. Shivakumar and share them on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, with the campaign hashtags and messages. To know more about our App visit: nammacongress.com



"The Bengaluru based 4point2 Technologies Pvt. Ltd. has been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies. With this innovative technology, Congress has been able to engage voters in an unprecedented manner," according to Mr. K. Shiva Kumar, Founder, Chairman & MD of the company.



About 4POINT2 Technologies Pvt. Ltd.



4POINT2 Technologies empowers clients to create engaging, interactive, and immersive content experiences with their customers. As the go-to interface on mobile screens, 4Point2 lets customers see products in a whole new dimension. A leader in innovation, service, and consultation, the organization, stands tall with a cumulative leadership experience of 80+ years. 4point2 Technologies Pvt. Ltd., has been a trailblazer in technology developing customized applications, custom publishing, and digital space since 2010. Website: www.4point2tech.com



For More information Please contact:

K. Shiva Kumar

Founder, Chairman & MD, 4POINT2 Technologies

M: +91 91489 88344

E: shivakumar@4point2tech.com



Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2071468/4POINT2AppLaunchPhoto.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], May 8: Indian maritime stalwarts believe that the key roadblock in increasing the global share of Indian seafarers going forward is the lack of an adequate number of Indian senior officers serving merchant navy worldwide presently as Indian junior officers and ratings (semi-skilled Indian seamen) are usually paired with senior Indian officers as crew members aboard specialized merchant navy ships by most reputed maritime recruitment agents globally. Also, it is estimated that there exists a 7 to 10% shortage of skilled seafarers worldwide.



The global share of Indian seafarers is around 8% currently, whereas India accounts for roughly 18% of the worlds population. India has already surpassed China to become the world's most populous nation with 142.86 crores people. India has its largest ever adolescent and youth population and will continue to have one of the youngest populations in the world till 2030. Moreover, the Indian job market is estimated to witness 22 per cent churn over the next five years, said Capt Vinay Singh, Hong-Kong-based and Group Managing Director of Marine HR, Anglo-Eastern Group  the worlds leading shipping conglomerate.



Capt Vinay Singh added, In such a scenario as the worlds leading ship management company which is also one of the largest employers of Indian seafarers, Anglo-Eastern Group plans to capitalize on the countrys burgeoning young population to bolster the ship management business operations in India through specialized maritime training courses offered at the best merchant navy college of India, Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy or AEMA located near Mumbai city. Also, as a responsible corporate citizen of the country, AEMA would continue to endeavour to promote seafaring among female students of India.



AEMA recently won honour and was officially recognized as Indias Outstanding Maritime Institute 1st Rank in the category of pre-sea training institutes conducting courses for Officer Cadets (Nautical & Engineering) on the occasion of 60th National Maritime Day Celebrations 2023. This award was handed over to the senior executive of Anglo Eastern Group at a function held in Mumbai by Mr Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of India.



AEMA was established by Anglo Eastern Group in 2009. This world-class maritime college of India maintains 100% placement records. Students enrolled at AEMA eventually get hired by Anglo Eastern Group post their successful completion of maritime studies. AEMA offers job security to its students. AEMA executives continue to guide aspiring students in India to pursue career options in the merchant navy through offices of Anglo Eastern Group located in cities like Mumbai, Pune, New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Lucknow, etc.



www.angloeastern.com



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PNN and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
Mumbai, May 8 (PTI) In less than week of cash-strapped Go First cancelling all its flights, lessors have sought deregistration of a total of 36 planes with requests coming for taking back 13 more aircraft on Monday.

With the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) yet to pronounce its verdict on Go First's petition seeking voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings, the airline on Monday requested the tribunal for an early decision saying lessors have started deregistering aircraft.

The tribunal agreed to look into Go First's request.

Lessors have approached the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to deregister another 13 aircraft of Go First, as per an update with the regulator on Monday.

Earlier, lessors applied for deregistration of Go First's 23 planes.

On May 2, also the day when the Wadia group-owned airline filed for voluntary insolvency resolution proceedings, its Chief Executive Officer Kaushik Khona told PTI that of the total 55 aircraft in its fleet, 28 planes were on ground due to Pratt & Whitney engine issues and remaining 27 were operational.

Go First has not been operating flights since May 3.

Earlier on Monday, the DGCA directed the airline to immediately stop bookings and sale of tickets directly or indirectly till further orders.

Besides, the regulator has issued a show cause notice to the budget carrier under the relevant provisions of the Aircraft Rules, 1937, for its failure to continue the operation of the service in a safe, efficient and reliable manner, according to a source.

The DGCA has asked the carrier to submit its reply within 15 days of the receipt of the show cause notice, and further, a decision on the continuation of its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) will be taken on the basis of the reply submitted by it, the source added.

Earlier, the airline has suspended the sale of tickets till May 15 and cancelled flights till May 12.
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) The government on Monday banned the import of apples if its imported price is less than Rs 50 per Kg.

"Import of apples...is prohibited wherever the CIF (cost, insurance, freight) import price is less than equal to Rs 50 per Kg," the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) said in a notification.

Minimum import price condition shall not be applicable for imports from Bhutan, it said.

In 2023, India imported apples worth USD 296 million against USD 385.1 million in 2022.

The main countries which export apples to India include the US, Iran, Brazil, UAE, Afghanistan, France, Belgium, Chile, Italy, Turkey, New Zealand, South Africa and Poland.
Mumbai, May 8 (PTI) "The Kerala Story" producer Vipul Shah on Monday said they will take legal action against the ban imposed by the West Bengal government on the screening of the film in the state.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ordered an immediate ban on the screening of the controversial movie to avoid "any incident of hatred and violence".

"If that's what she has done, then we will again take legal action. Whatever is possible under the provisions of the law, we will fight that," Shah said at a press conference when asked about the ban in West Bengal.

The Kerala High Court had refused to stay the release and said the trailer does not contain anything offensive to any particular community as a whole. It noted that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has examined the movie and found it suitable for public exhibition.

"The Kerala Story", which depicts the plight of a group of women in Kerala who are forced to convert and join the ISIS, has kicked up a political storm.

While many BJP leaders have spoken in its favour, Keralas ruling CPI(M) and opposition Congress have said the film falsely claims that 32,000 women got converted and radicalised and were deployed in terror missions both in India and the world.

The film's director Sudipto Sen and Shah had called the press conference after several theatres apparently declined to screen the movie in Tamil Nadu fearing protests. Asked about the losses it may face due to the ban, Shah said, "We will not talk about profit or loss now, we will only try to ensure that more and more people watch the film. If a state government or a private person will try to stop the film, then we will try every legal route possible."

Producer Shah called "The Kerala Story" a film on a "serious social subject" and requested the Tamil Nadu government to ensure a "smooth and fair" release of the movie.

"In Tamil Nadu, one individual has threatened and forced the government to stop the release," he said without naming anyone.

"I'm requesting the government ensure that the film is released since the honourable court has already given the order. It is the state government's duty to ensure a smooth and fair release of the film. Let people decide whether they want to see it. But this is a completely unacceptable situation," he added.

On April 6, Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) staged a protest against the release of the film in Chennai. Seeman, the party's coordinator, who is also actor and director, along with NTK cadres, had protested near Anna Nagar Arch.

The film has earned Rs 35 crore in its opening weekend and Shah said there has been a 20 to 30 percent jump in numbers on Monday.

In a rally in Ballari in poll-bound Karnataka on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced the movie in his speech, Such a beautiful state of the country, where people are hardworking and talented. The Kerala Story film brings out terror conspiracies happening in that state."

Shah said the film has become of national importance now.

"Our honourable PM has spoken about this film. Other important political parties have talked about the film and have presented this subject as something of national importance. There are some people who have supported and some have opposed. Now no one can ignore it on the national level, which is a huge achievement for us," he added.

The filmmaker said people would have rejected the film if it was a propaganda movie.

"It is running successfully in Kerala and next Wednesday or Thursday, we will dub the film in Malayalam. We are trying that. We haven't faced any issues in Kerala, which is why this is so surprising that people have seen the film and appreciated it in Kerala but in Tamil Nadu, one person has held hostage the state and its government," he added.

The Indian Film & Television Directors' Association on Monday condemned West Bengal's decision to ban the movie in the state.

"IFTDA condemns the ban on Vipul Shah's film 'The Kerala Story' by the Bengal government. We strongly feel that it's against the freedom of expression of a filmmaker. We stand by the filmmaker and his film exactly the way we stood by films like 'Udta Punjab' and 'Padmaavat'," the film body said in a statement.
Mumbai, May 8 (PTI) Viacom18 Studios and Tipping Point on Monday announced their future project slate, which includes films such as "Fighter", billed as Indias first aerial action film, Karan Johar's "Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani", and the sequel of "OMG  Oh My God!".

Also part of the line-up are "Dhak Dhak", a coming of age journey of four unlikely women bikers starring Fatima Shaikh, Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza and Sanjana Sanghi; courtroom family drama "Shastry Vs Shastry" featuring Paresh Rawal; Huma Qureshi-starrer "Single Salma"; and "Suspect", an intriguing thriller starring Nana Patekar and Meezan Jaffery.

Our mission is focused on curating a compelling & diverse slate of stories from the most talented creators in various forms, narrative styles and languages that connect with the hearts of the viewers irrespective of the screens they play on, said Ajit Andhare, COO of Viacom18 Studios, in a statement.

In addition to the movies, the slate features 10 new web series from Tipping Point, a young digital content brand under the Viacom18 Studios umbrella.

They include: "Gaanth", a Delhi-set crime thriller; "Transition", a reality series that follows the journey of a trans woman; "Kaalkoot", an investigative drama that hits hard as a social commentary; "Boots, Belts & Berets", a heartwarming coming-of-age story of academy freshers turning to men in uniform; "Mahim", an adaptation of Jerry Pintos book set in Mumbai; and "Cheeku", a coming-of-age story of a 24-year-old man from the Tamil Brahmin Iyer community in Mumbai, to name a few.

Besides these titles, the Viacom18 Studios Hollywood roster includes Tom Cruise's upcoming spy action adventure "Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One" and "Transformers: Rise of The Beasts", the seventh installment of the Transformers franchise.
Islamabad, May 8 (PTI) Afghanistan's interim Taliban regime Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has asked Pakistan and the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to sit together for a dialogue, amid a sharp increase in deadly attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

"It is requested that Pakistan and TTP sit together for dialogue," Muttaqi, who is here on a four-day visit to Pakistan to attend bilateral and trilateral dialogues, said while addressing an event in Islamabad on Monday, Geo News reported.

Pakistan had held several rounds of talks - brokered by the Afghan Taliban - with the TTP but the negotiations failed last year after which the militant group resumed terror activities. Pakistan has witnessed a surge in TTP violence since the militant group formally ended the ceasefire on November 28.

The TTP has become a thorny issue between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan expected the Afghan Taliban to address its concerns regarding the TTP after its return to power in August 2021. But contrary to the expectations, the TTP attacks only went up.

The TTP, which has ideological linkages with the Afghan Taliban and is also known as the Pakistan Taliban, was set up as an umbrella group of several militant outfits in 2007. Its main aim is to impose its strict brand of Islam across Pakistan.

The Afghan Talibans reluctance to take on the TTP stemmed from its fears that the group's fighters might join Daesh (Islamic State). Second, the Afghan Taliban and the TTP share the same ideology as they fought alongside the US-led foreign forces.

Nevertheless, the two sides have been trying to find a way out of the TTP problem as it has threatened to undermine their future cooperation, according to the paper.

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif last month warned Afghanistan's Taliban rulers about targeting terrorist hideouts inside the war-torn neighbouring country if the latter were unable to rein in anti-Pakistan militants. He had earlier said that the banned TTP was using Afghan soil for carrying out attacks in Pakistan.

The TTP, which is believed to have close links to al-Qaeda, has in the past also threatened to target Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari if the ruling coalition continued to implement strict measures against the militants.

The TTP was set up as an umbrella group of several militant outfits in 2007. Its main aim is to impose its strict brand of Islam across Pakistan.

The group has been blamed for several deadly attacks across Pakistan, including an attack on army headquarters in 2009, assaults on military bases and the 2008 bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

In 2012, Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai was attacked by TTP. She suffered bullet injuries and was admitted to the Military Hospital (CMH) Peshawar and then taken to London for further treatment. The TTP claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that Yousafzai was a "Western-minded girl".

In 2014, the Pakistani Taliban stormed the Army Public School (APS) in the northwestern city of Peshawar, killing at least 150 people, including 131 students. The attack sent shockwaves across the world and was widely condemned.
Phnom Penh (Cambodia), May 8 (AP) Cambodia's National Election Committee announced on Monday that 20 political parties have registered for July's general election but nine of them still have not been approved, including the Candlelight Party, the sole credible challenger to the governing Cambodian People's Party.

About 9.7 million Cambodians are registered to vote in the July 23 election to select the 123 members of the National Assembly.

Prime Minister Hun Sen and his entrenched Cambodian People's Party are certain to easily top the polls, holding all the advantages of incumbency. They dominate the field in terms of nationwide organising, personnel, finances and influence with the mass media.

The party has held an iron grip on power for decades and controls almost every level of government.

Hun Sen, 71, an authoritarian ruler in a nominally democratic state, has held his position for 38 years. His eldest son, army chief Hun Manet, is widely expected to replace his father as prime minister after the polls.

The opposition, led by the Candelight Party, is low on financial resources and subject to constant harassment in the courts initiated by the governing party. Most prominent opposition members are in self-imposed exile to avoid being jailed on various charges they say are trumped up and unfair.

The Candlelight Party is the unofficial successor to the Cambodia National Rescue Party, which posed a serious challenge to Hun Sen's party ahead of the 2018 election. It was disbanded just months ahead of the polls by a controversial court ruling that said it had plotted the illegal overthrow of the government.

The courts are widely believed to be under the influence of Hun Sen's government, and the party's disbanding enabled the governing party to win all of the seats in the National Assembly.

However, in local elections last June, the Cambodian People's Party won 74.3 per cent of the votes and the Candlelight Party received about 22.3 per cent.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday when registering with the National Election Committee, Candlelight Party deputy president Rong Chhun said several party members have been intimidated, threatened and even beaten up, though his party has not publicised the incidents.

He also said some government officials who are members of his party were dismissed from their jobs.

Rong Chhun appealed to the authorities to treat all political parties fairly, and said he wishes for calm ahead of the election, with people allowed to express their party allegiances without fear.

The party said ahead of registration that the election committee had demanded documents it could not provide, even though they had not been needed for last year's local elections.

The committee asked for the party's original registration papers issued by the Interior Ministry. But the Candlelight Party said the papers were taken in a 2017 police raid on the headquarters of its predecessor, the Cambodia National Rescue Party.

If the Candlelight Party is not allowed to contest the July polls, the sole competition for the governing party would be groups aligned with it, or small, obscure parties without a national presence.

By law, parties have seven days to provide any missing information to the election committee, failing which their registration will be rejected. They can then appeal the ruling to the Constitutional Council. (AP) PY

PY
Beni (Congo), May 8 (AP) The remains of at least 20 people were found buried in a mass grave in an area used to cultivate cacao in Ndoma village in Congo's North Kivu province this weekend, according to local authorities and a military spokesperson.

A team of forensic and security officers exhumed the bodies after residents of villages in Beni territory found bones and clothing and alerted officials.

Until earlier this year, the area had been under the control of the Allied Democratic Forces, or ADF, a rebel militia with links to the Islamic State group. The area is now controlled by the Congolese army.

Muyisa Kambale Sindani, representative of nearby Kilya village, said Saturday that the remains were reburied "with dignity and security. He confirmed that bones of at least 20 people were found, but that it wasn't possible to search further because of a lack of security in the region. It wasn't immediately clear how long the bodies had been there. Eastern Congo has been plagued by violence for decades as more than 120 armed groups fight for power, influence and resources and some to protect their communities.

The ADF attacks have concentrated on North Kivu province, but the group has recently extended its operations into neighbouring Ituri province and to areas near the regional capital, Goma, in South Kivu. The rebels are accused by the U.N. and rights groups of targeting, maiming, raping and abducting civilians, including children. Capt. Anthony Mwalushayi, regional spokesperson for the Congolese army said the area had been an ADF stronghold.

There are innocent people who have been buried here. This is really a mass grave,  he said, but noted that among the bones that were found, there were military insignias.

Mwalushayi pledged authorities would investigate and bring those responsible to justice.

Local residents are demanding more protection from the government but also justice.

We demand justice to be done so that the perpetrators of this massacre answer for their actions and set an example for other rebels to stop killing us unfairly said Richard Kakule, a farmer from Ndoma. After the forensic and experts collected the remains and placed them in white body bags, locals organized a small ceremony and sang while burying the bodies with their own hands. ADF rebels have been active in eastern Congo for decades and have killed thousands in the region since they resurfaced in 2013.

Earlier this year, the United States offered a reward of up to $5 million for information that could lead to the capture of the group's leader, Seka Musa Baluku. (AP) PY

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Mexico City, May 8 (AP) Mexico's president said on Monday he will talk with US President Joe Biden by telephone on Tuesday about immigration and the fentanyl crisis.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the leaders will also discuss development programmes to help stem the flow of migrants to the US border. The conversation comes two days before the end of pandemic-era immigration restrictions that allowed US authorities to quickly expel migrants who crossed the border illegally.

Lopez Obrador appealed to migrants not to use smugglers to travel to the US border.

Don't allow yourselves to be fooled, Lopez Obrador said during his morning news briefing. Don't allow yourselves to be blackmailed by coyotes, smugglers, who put you at risk."

Mexico agreed last week to continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who are turned away at the border, as well as some other migrants from Central America.

The Mexican president has previously asked the US government to contribute more development aid to Central America so people won't have to migrate.

Lopez Obrador has also slammed proposals by US Republican legislators to make it more difficult to apply for asylum and easier for authorities to block migrants at the border.

This really degrades them, morally, he said.

The two presidents will also discuss the fentanyl crisis. The synthetic opioid, mainly smuggled in from Mexico, has caused about 70,000 overdose deaths per year in the United States.

Lopez Obrador has denied that drug cartels make fentanyl in Mexico, although he has acknowledged that precursor chemicals  and, he claims, finished fentanyl  are smuggled into Mexico from China, a claim China has denied. (AP) PY

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A fragile cease-fire between Israeli forces and militants in the Gaza Strip appeared to be holding on Sunday, after a five-day clash that killed 33 Palestinians.
Indore, May 8 (PTI) A court here in Madhya Pradesh on Monday imposed a fine of Rs 40,000 on a shopkeeper for storing modified silencers that generate a shrill sound once fitted in motorcycles.

A police spokesperson said the chief judicial magistrate of the district court imposed the fine under the Motor Vehicles Act.

The traffic police on May 3 seized 109 "modified" silencers from a shop in Chhoti Gwaltoli area, he said.

In a similar case, the court imposed a fine of Rs 30,000 on another shopkeeper, also from Chhoti Gwaltoli area, on May 6 after eight modified silencers were seized from his shop, the spokesperson said.

The traffic police have launched a campaign against the installation of such silencers, the official said.
Imphal, May 8 (PTI) Life was crawling back to somewhat normal in violence-hit Manipur as people came out of their homes in state capital Imphal to buy essential items with the curfew being relaxed for a few hours on Monday morning, officials said.

Drones and helicopters continued a close watch, while personnel of the Army and Assam Rifles held flag marches in different areas that have been rocked by ethnic violence over the last few days, they said.

The clashes broke out on Wednesday after tribals organised a demonstration in the ten hill districts of the state to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.

So far, 23,000 people have been rescued from the violence-hit areas and moved to military garrisons, officials said.

The curfew, imposed on Wednesday after the violence broke out, was relaxed from 5 am to 8 am in Imphal West district to allow people buy essential items. People came out in large numbers to buy vegetables, groceries and medicines.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh said he was thankful to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his supervision and support to help improve the situation in the violence-hit state.

"I have been constantly in touch with the office of the Home Minister to monitor the situation and ensure that no further violence takes place in the state," he said.

"The paramilitary and state forces have been doing an exemplary job in controlling the violence and bringing the state back to normalcy. I also appreciate the people of the state for their cooperation," he added.

Governor Anusuiya Uikey chaired a meeting with Security Advisor Kuldip Singh and Operational Commander Ashutosh Sinha on Sunday. At the meeting, the two officers shared their suggestions with the governor to resolve the crisis.

The state government also brought back IAS officer Vineet Joshi from central deputation in New Delhi, and appointed him as the new chief secretary.

Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region G Kishan Reddy told PTI on Sunday that the Centre was ready for talks with the warring groups in Manipur and resolve their issues.

"Please come forward to solve the issues in a peaceful manner. The government is ready. You have seen the farmers' issue. When it was peaceful, we tried to convince them. As the issue was not resolved, we agreed to their demand, and those bills (three farm laws) were withdrawn. So, the government is not adamant," he said.
Aizawl, May 8 (PTI) More than 2,000 people from Manipur have fled to neighbouring Mizoram and sought shelter in the state following ethnic violence, a senior official said on Monday.

State Home Commissioner and Secretary H Lalengmawia said that a total of 2,056 internally displaced people from Manipur have entered Mizoram and taken refuge in different parts of the northeastern state till Monday evening.

The senior official said that most of the people who have come from Manipur belong to the ethnic Zo (Mizo) community and they have been given shelter by their relatives.

The government is also making efforts to provide those people with temporary shelters.

Saitual district, which shares border with Manipur, has the highest number of such people at 827, followed by Kolasib district at 757, he said.

Besides, 402 people have reached Aizawl district, and 59 others have taken shelter in East Mizoram's Champhai district near the Myanmar border. Serchhip and Khawzawl districts have four and seven people respectively from Manipur.

According to Lalengmawia, 86 more state residents who were stranded in Imphal have been evacuated on Monday.

While 34 people arrived in Aizawl by bus after they landed at Guwahati airport on Sunday, the remaining 52 were brought here from Imphal via Kolkata, he said.

On Tuesday, 29 more people will be flown to Guwahati, from where they will be picked up by bus, he said.

The senior official also said that the government is making efforts to evacuate the remaining 68 state's residents, who are still stranded in the neighbouring state.
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) The BJP on Monday moved the Election Commission seeking action against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and derecognition of her party for her use of the term "sovereignty" for Karnataka during the state poll campaign.

A BJP delegation headed by Union minister Bhupender Yadav submitted a memorandum to the poll watchdog over the issue.

"Karnataka is a very important member state in the Union of India and any call to protect the sovereignty of a member state of the Union of India amounts to a call for secession and is fraught with perilous and pernicious consequences," the party said.

Speaking to reporters, party leader Tarun Chugh cited the Representation of the People Act and said the Congress party should be derecognised.

The BJP also submitted a copy of the Congress tweet quoting Gandhi on the issue.

The opposition party had tweeted, "CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas: 'The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity'".
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said it has arrested a Kerala-based financier who is alleged to have duped 1,000 people of about Rs 240 crore by promising them high rates of return on their deposits.

Venugopal S, proprietor of Kechery Enterprises, was taken into custody after the agency obtained permission from a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court.

He was already in the custody of Kerala Police -- Punalur police station in Kollam district -- which first began investigation against him and his company.

The court sent Venugopal to four-day remand of the ED for "investigation into the offence of money laundering in connection with collection of illegal deposits from public to the tune of Rs 240 crore", the agency said in a statement.

It alleged Venugopal "cheated" the depositors by not repaying the amounts collected from them.

"The accused, while accepting the deposits from general public, assured high returns ranging from 15-18 per cent every year and assured them that Kechery Enterprises was having the recognition of RBI," the agency alleged.

He also told the depositors that their investments are secured and that they had the option to withdraw their investments at any time and that his business entity had all approvals from the state and central governments, it said.

Eventually, more than 1,000 persons were cheated in the scam in and around southern districts of Kerala, the ED said.

"Investigation is in progress to trace the proceeds of the crime and other beneficiaries who have assisted him (Venugopal) in the scam," the ED said.
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) Senior officers of the ITBP and Tamil Nadu Police that are deployed in Tihar Jail met the Delhi Prisons Director General Sanjay Beniwal on Monday to discuss ways to address security concerns in the wake of the brutal killing of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya inside the prison premises last week, officials said.

The meetings come after Beniwal wrote to the heads of the security agencies whose personnel are deployed at the Tihar, one of the largest prisons in Asia, as part of security arrangements.

"Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in Indo Tibetan Border Police Bhanwar Singh met DG Prisons today. The two senior officials discussed various issues including security concerns in Tihar," a jail official said.

H M Jayaram, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) of Tamil Nadu Police, also meet the DG Prisons to discuss the matter, they said.

Tajpuriya was assaulted with improvised weapons allegedly by four members of the Gogi gang inside the high-security prison on Tuesday morning.

He was still alive and was being carried away by the prison security personnel when the accused attacked him for the second time, video footage of the incident showed.

In the footage, it appeared that the security personnel remained mute spectators while the assailants kept attacking the gangster.

Seven personnel of the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP), who were on duty, have been suspended and transferred to Tamil Nadu, according to jail officials.
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) The media should play "a positive role" and tell the truth without choosing sides in the interest of society and the country, senior RSS functionary Narendra Kumar Thakur said on Monday.

Addressing an event here, he also expressed concern over the circulation of "fake news" on social media and said handling of such news has emerged as "a big challenge" before the media.

The "biggest victim" of fake news is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Thakur said, suggesting that journalists should duly verify information that they "pick" from social media before disseminating it.

"Circulation of fake news on social media has become a big challenge today... Many such fake news appear, for example, RSS carried out a poll survey. We fail to understand where such information comes from. We have never conducted any poll survey ever," the RSS leader said.

The media should refrain from carrying such news in the rush of being the first to report, he said.

Thakur, who is the national co-head of the RSS' media relations department, was speaking at Dev Rishi Narad Patrakar Samman Samaroh, a function organised to award journalists for their contributions.

The event was organised by the RSS' media wing Indraprastha Vishwa Samvad Kendra.

Addressing the event, Thakur said the media played a significant role during the freedom struggle in awakening people's "selfhood and Indianness".

"Media still has a role to play today as significant as it played before Independence.Tell the truth, write without choosing any side. News reporting should be neutral and not in favour of anyone. Journalist should refrain from choosing sides because then they become part of the agenda of the side they choose," the RSS leader said.
Bengaluru, May 8 (PTI) Curtains came down on the high decibel campaigning for the Assembly polls in Karnataka on Monday evening, setting the stage for the mega ballot battle on May 10.



With the stakes being high this election, the major political parties in contention -- the BJP, Congress and JD(S) -- and their candidates have made a strong pitch seeking to boost their prospects at the hustings.



In the intensity of the campaign, there were instances of leaders crossing the line of public discourse and indulging in personal attacks and abuses against each other.

The top guns of all the major political parties were on a campaign blitz across the state in the past few days.

While the ruling BJP, riding on the Modi juggernaut, wants to break the 38-year-old jinx and retain its southern citadel, the Congress wants to wrest power to give the party much-needed elbow room and momentum to position itself as the main opposition player in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Also, the JD(S) led by former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda was seen putting all its might into campaigning, wanting to emerge as "king" and not "Kingmaker", hoping to get the required numbers to form a government on its own.



"A government with full majority" seemed to be the favourite slogan for the leaders of all the political parties during campaigning for the elections to the 224-member Assembly, as they stressed on getting a clear mandate to form a strong and stable government in the state.



The BJP's campaign seemed largely "centralised" with the focus mainly on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, 'double-engine' government, national issues and programmes or achievements of the union government coupled with just a few from the state.



The Congress by-and-large focused on local issues and its campaign also was run by its state leaders initially. However, its central leaders such as AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra pitched in subsequently.



JD(S) too ran a highly localised campaign, anchored solely by its leader H D Kumaraswamy, with party patriarch Deve Gowda too joining in later despite his advanced age and related ailments.

Modi made a major campaign push in the last one week since April 29, by holding 19 mega public meetings and six roadshows, canvassing votes for BJP candidates across the state with the poll slogan 'Ee Baariya Nirdhara, Bahumatada BJP Sarkara' (This Time's Decision: Majority BJP Government).



Ahead of the announcement of polls on March 29, Modi had visited the state seven times since January to unveil several government schemes and projects, and had addressed numerous beneficiary meetings.

According to BJP leaders, Modi's election rallies bolstered its campaign in a big way and would help the party script history in the polls.

BJP national leaders have held a total of 206 public meetings and 90 roadshows, while its state leaders have held 231 public meetings and 48 road shows, the party said.



Top leaders of political parties continued campaigning even on the last day, as only door-to-door campaigning is allowed tomorrow.



Union Home Minister Amit Shah too has extensively travelled the state campaigning and strategising for the polls. "PM and Shah have put Congress on the back foot in the run-up to the polls," a senior BJP leader said.



A number of BJP leaders, including its national president J P Nadda, Chief Ministers of BJP ruled states like Uttar Pradesh's Yogi Adiyanath, Assam's Himanta Biswa Sarma, Madhya Pradesh's Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Goa's Pramod Sawant, as well as Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar, Smriti Irani, Nitin Gadkari, among others too have travelled in various parts of the state for campaigning.



The party also effectively utilised the services of its top leader in Karnataka B S Yediyurappa to counter the attempt by the Congress to build a perception that it was turning anti-Lingayat.



While the BJP tried to highlight the achievements of both the state and central governments to pitch for another chance for its 'double-engine' government (same party government in state and at Centre), the party also openly sought votes in the name of Modi, projecting his image as a global leader and India's "growing stature" on the world stage.



While trying to push the idea that the state's development was possible only if the BJP came to power, with the support of the party's government at the Centre, the party and its leaders tried to defend the Karnataka government's decision to scrap 4 per cent reservation for Muslims under OBCs, and also made efforts to counter the allegations of corruption against the regime.



The BJP and its leaders, especially the Prime Minister, tried to turn opposition barbs at him like "venomous snake" into campaign issues for the party to capitalise on. The Congress's mention of a possible ban on right-wing outfit Bajrang Dal was also used by Modi and the BJP machinery to counter the grand old party by trying to brand it "anti Bajarangbali" and "anti Hindu".



For the Congress, wresting power from the BJP would be a morale booster and the key to reviving its electoral fortunes and strengthening its credentials as the main opposition player against the BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.



By winning Karnataka, it also wants to give a momentum of sorts to its workers to take on the battle-ready election machinery of the BJP later this year in the Hindi heartland states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan.



Though the campaign initially centered around its state leaders like Siddaramaiah and D K Shivakumar, Kharge gave it momentum and thereby prepared the pitch for the party's top leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi to join in.



The brother-sister duo extensively travelled across the state, challenging the BJP's campaign machinery led by Modi, countering and challenging him on various issues, most importantly on the issue of corruption, while promising to provide a better alternative for Karnataka. Their mother and former AICC president Sonia Gandhi addressed a party rally in Hubballi on Saturday.



This election is also a prestige battle for the grand old party, with a Kannadiga Kharge, who hails from Kalaburagi district, being at its helm as the national president. The party has set a target of winning 150 seats.



The party has held 99 public meetings and 33 road shows by its top state and central leaders.



The Congress's main aim to attack the BJP government in this election was over corruption/scams and the charge of 40 per cent commission, coupled with the Adani issue. While extensively highlighting its five key poll 'guarantees', the party tried to inform the people about its charge against the BJP government of having "failed in fulfilling 90 per cent of its promises" made in its 2018 manifesto.



At a time when it seemed like all was going well, Congress itself waded into controversies with Siddaramaiah's statement that "theres already a Lingayat CM who is the most corrupt, which the BJP turned into an insult to the entire Lingayat community; Mallikarjun Kharge comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a venomous snake; then his son and Chittapur MLA Priyank Kharge calling Modi a nalayak beta (incompetent son).



Amid these back-to-back controversies, the Congress manifesto's promise of possibly banning the right-wing Bajrang Dal caused some anxiety as it threatened to hurt the optics, as BJP aggressively picked up the issue to portray the grand old party as being against lord Hanuman and the sentiments of Hindus.



Will the 2023 Karnataka Assembly polls be a battle of political survival for JD(S) or will the regional party once again emerge as kingmaker, like it did in 2018, in the event of a hung verdict? That is the debate in political circles this time too.



Plagued by desertions and internal rifts, and with the image of being a "family party", Gowda's son Kumaraswamy, has in a way single-handedly managed the JD(S) campaign across the state, with his aging father taking the back seat.



Kumaraswamy has by-and-large focused his campaign on a five-fold programme called Pancharatna that the JD(S) plans to implement on coming to power. It includes quality education, health care, housing, farmer welfare and employment.

Though the 89-year-old Deve Gowda initially stayed away from campaigning due to age related ailments, he has been travelling and campaigning for JD(S) candidates in the past couple of weeks, especially in the party bastion of Old Mysuru region, making an emotional pitch, and countering the Congress's and BJP's attacks against his party.

Allegations by both national parties that the JD(S) was the 'B team' of the other, and that JD(S) was hoping to win just 35-40 seats to play a crucial role in government formation in case of a hung verdict were among the criticisms faced by Kumaraswamy in this campaign.

The former chief minister, however, has heavily banked on the topics of regional pride and Kannadiga identity in his campaigning, along with issues related to welfare of farmers and the poor to attract voters.
Kolkata, May 8 (PTI) Expressing concern over the current situation in violence-hit Manipur, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday alleged that the BJP government is not providing a clear picture of the death toll in the northeastern state where shoot-at-sight orders are in force.

She also lashed out at the BJP government at the Centre for not sending a single representative to Manipur to review the situation.

Neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke anything about what has happened to that BJP-ruled state, the Trinamool Congress supremo said.

"I am quite tense with the situation in Manipur. We are not getting a clear picture of the number of deaths in shoot-at-sight (order) as the state government is not giving any information. I am really shocked," Banerjee said.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, however, said later that 60 people have lost their lives in the ethnic riots.

Manipur violence is a man-made problem, Banerjee claimed.

Attacking the BJP-led central government, she alleged that Shah is so busy with the Karnataka assembly elections that could not get one day to visit Manipur, though they have helicopters and planes of the defence forces.

"Manipur is burning. But no one is talking about it. Elections may come and go, but people's lives come first. BJP is not as busy with Manipur as it is with polls. He (Shah) could have spared a day and gone to Manipur. He could have come to Bengal later," she stated.

Shah is scheduled to visit West Bengal on Tuesday on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore.

Banerjee also said that 25 people including 18 students from the state, who were stranded in Manipur, were brought back on Monday morning.

These students were pursuing BSc, MSc and PhD courses at the Central Agricultural University in Imphal, she said, adding that the cost of the travel was borne by the state government.

Banerjee said that 68 students from West Bengal are still stuck in Manipur and several people from states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Rajasthan are being provided with transit accommodation by her government.

Violent clashes broke out in the northeastern state after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the 10 hill districts on May 3 to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, leading to the deaths of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.
New Delhi, May 8 (PTI) Five armed robbers broke into a businessman's house in northwest Delhi and allegedly decamped with Rs 1.3 crore and over two kilogrammes of gold, police said on Monday.

The victim, who lives in Ashok Vihar, has a paper trading business and his father was a contractor, they said.

The masked robbers broke into the house early on Saturday after cutting window grilles, the police said.

They woke up family members, including children, and held them hostage in a room at gunpoint, a senior police officer said.

Armed with guns and knives, the robbers forced some of them to show where the gold and the cash were kept in the house, he said

While two-three accused guarded the hostages, the others robbed the house, the officer said.

Before the robbers left, they threatened family members with dire consequences if they reported the matter to the police, he said.

The family members managed to free themselves and lodged a complaint, the officer said.

Footage from CCTV cameras installed on the premises showed the suspects leaving the house around 2.45 am, the police said, adding that the robbers had performed recces of the area days before the incident.

The robbers also tampered with the CCTV cameras in and around the house, leading the police to suspect the involvement of an insider, the officer added.
Washington's power brokers love playing chicken. But the rest of the world will watch in dread Tuesday when President Joe Biden and Republican leaders meet to negotiate the US debt ceiling -- praying that one side finally blinks.
SOPHIA GOUVEIA, Wheeler, Girls Lacrosse, Sophomore; Gouveia scored the winning goal with less than a minute remaining to beat St. Bernard. Gouveia finished with six goals in that game and also scored eight times in a win against Griswold-Norwich Tech.

WILL FRENCH, Stonington, Boys Lacrosse, Senior; French won 62 of 66 faceoffs in three Stonington victories. French also scored six goals and contributed an assist in the wins.

RYDER CASADY, Westerly, Boys Lacrosse, Junior; Casady made 30 saves in goal for the unbeaten Bulldogs. Casadys best performance of the week was 13 saves in a win against Burrillville.

KODY POPLASKI, Chariho, Boys Volleyball, Sophomore; Poplaski had 95 assists in two wins for the Chargers. Poplaski contributed 51 in a victory against Classical and 44 against Cranston East.

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Opponents of the Netanyahu government have a knee-jerk reaction to anything it does, especially if its related to Chareidim and/or religion.

As would be expected, the kosher electricity plan was no exception, with opposition politicians using it as a way to incite against Chareidim, claiming that the costs of the kosher electricity project will come out of the secular sectors pockets. The fact that the government published a detailed outline, explaining that the kosher electricity plan is part of a national electricity storage plan that will benefit all Israeli residents and will not raise prices, failed to deter their claims.

In an interview with Galei Yisrael on Monday, Energy Minister Yisrael Katz (Likud) said: Opponents of the government change their claims against the kosher electricity like they change their socks. At first, they said that it will raise electricity bills for the general public  a lie.

After that, they said it would negatively affect competition  a lie. After that, they talked about the cost of building the facility [in Bnei Brak]  a lie.

The Bnei Brak facility, which will serve as a pilot for a national electricity storage infrastructure, will be sold to the private sector by the Israel Electric Company within three years.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The Arab League agreed Sunday to reinstate Syria, ending a 12-year suspension and taking another step toward bringing Syrian President Bashar Assad, a long-time regional pariah, back into the fold.

Some influential league members remain opposed to reinstating Syria, chief among them Qatar, which did not send its foreign minister to Sundays gathering. Thirteen out of the leagues 22 member states sent their foreign ministers to the meeting in Cairo.

The decision represented a victory for Damascus, albeit a largely symbolic one. Given that Western sanctions against Assads government remain in place, the return to the Arab League is not expected to lead to a quick release of reconstruction funds in the war-battered country.

Syrias membership in the Arab League was suspended early on during the countrys 2011 uprising against Assads rule that was met by a violent crackdown and quickly turned into a civil war. The conflict has killed nearly a half million people since March 2011 and displaced half of the countrys pre-war population of 23 million.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said in a televised statement that the decision to return Syria to the organization, which will allow Assad to take part in the groups upcoming May 19 summit, is part of a gradual process of resolving the conflict.

This doesnt mean that the Syria crisis has been resolved, on the contrary, he said. But it allows the Arab (states) for the first time in years to communicate with the Syrian government to discuss all the problems.

Aboul Gheit also said restoring Syrias membership in the organization does not mean all Arab countries have normalized with Damascus.

These are sovereign decisions for each state individually, he said.

Syrian Prime Minister Hussein Arnous claimed Sunday that Syria had been the victim of misinformation and distortion campaigns launched by our enemies for 12 years. He said Sundays consultations reflected the prestigious position Syria holds regionally and internationally.

Opponents of Assad saw the move toward normalization as a betrayal.

Arab states have put their own cynical realpolitik and diplomatic agendas above basic humanity, said Laila Kiki, executive director of The Syria Campaign, an international advocacy group. The move, she said, has cruelly betrayed tens of thousands of victims of the regimes war crimes and granted Assad a green light to continue committing horrific crimes with impunity.

Sundays decision came days after regional top diplomats met in Jordan to discuss a road map to return Syria to the Arab fold as the conflict continues to de-escalate. The next Arab League summit is to take place May 19 in Saudi Arabia.

The Arab League generally tries to reach agreements by consensus but sometimes opts for simple majorities. Sundays session was held behind closed doors, and it was not immediately clear which countries had registered objections.

A spokesperson for Qatars Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement published by state media that normalization with Syria should be tied to a political solution to the conflict but that it always seeks to support what will achieve an Arab consensus and will not be an obstacle to that.

Sundays decision also includes a commitment by Arab governments to try to reach a political solution to the conflict, in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254. Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq were asked by the league to follow up on developments.

The league welcomed what it said was the Syrian governments willingness to cooperate with Arab countries to resolve humanitarian, security, and political crises that affected Syria and the region due to the conflict, including refugees, the threat of terrorism and drug smuggling.

Many observers had anticipated Syrias imminent return to the organization.

Arab rapprochement with Damascus accelerated after a deadly Feb. 6 earthquake that shattered parts of the war-torn country. One of the countries pushing normalization is Saudi Arabia, which once backed opposition groups trying to overthrow Assad.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Samer Shoukry said before Sundays meeting that only an Arab-led political solution without foreign dictates can end the ongoing conflict. The different stages of the Syrian crisis proved that it has no military solution, and that there is no victor nor defeated in this conflict, he said.

In recent years, as Assad regained control of most of the country with the help of key allies Russia and Iran, neighbors of Syria that hosted large refugee populations took steps towards reopening diplomatic links with Damascus. Meanwhile, two Gulf monarchies, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, reestablished ties.

The Feb. 6 earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria was a catalyst for further normalization across the Arab world. China helped to broker a recent rapprochement between arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran, which had backed opposing sides in the Syrian conflict.

Jordan last week hosted regional talks that included envoys from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, and Syria. They agreed on a framework, dubbed the Jordanian initiative, that would slowly bring Damascus back into the Arab fold. Ammans top diplomat said the meeting was the beginning of an Arab-led political path for a solution to the crisis.

The conflict in Sudan is also on the agenda, as Arab states try to stabilize a shaky cease-fire in the ongoing fighting that has killed hundreds of people over the past few weeks.

(AP)




Anxiety about the safety of Europes largest nuclear power plant grew Sunday after the Moscow-installed governor of the Ukrainian region where it is located ordered civilian evacuations, including from the city where most plant workers live.

International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi has spent months trying to persuade Russian and Ukrainian officials to establish a security zone around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant to prevent the war from causing a radiation leak.

The evacuations ordered by the Russia-backed governor of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia province, Yegeny Balitsky, raised fears that fighting in the area would intensify. Balitsky on Friday ordered civilians to leave 18 Russian-occupied communities, including Enerhodar, home to most of the plant staff.

More than 1,500 people had been evacuated from two unspecified cities in the region as of Sunday, Balitsky said. The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the evacuation of Enerhodar was underway.

Moscows troops seized the plant soon after invading Ukraine last year, but Ukrainian employees have continued to run it during the occupation, at times under extreme duress.

Ukraine has regularly fired at the Russian side of the lines, while Russia has repeatedly shelled Ukrainian-held communities across the Dnieper River. The fighting has intensified as Ukraine prepares to launch a long-promised counteroffensive to reclaim ground taken by Russia.

Ukrainian authorities on Sunday said that a 72-year-old woman was killed and three others were wounded when Russian forces fired more than 30 shells at the city of Nikopol, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) across the river from the plant.

Grossi said the evacuation of civilians suggested a further escalation.

The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous, Grossi warned Saturday.

We must act now to prevent the threat of a severe nuclear accident and its associated consequences for the population and the environment. This major nuclear facility must be protected, he said.

Although none of the plants six reactors are operating because of the war, the station needs a reliable power supply for cooling systems essential to preventing a potentially catastrophic radiation disaster.

Analysts have for months pointed to the southern Zaporizhzhia region as one of the possible targets of Ukraines expected spring counteroffensive, speculating that Kyivs forces might try to choke off Russias land corridor to the Crimean Peninsula and split Russian forces in two by pressing on to the Azov Sea coast.

Balitsky said Ukraines forces had intensified attacks on the area in the past several days.

Some of the fiercest ongoing fighting is in the eastern city of Bakhmut, where Ukrainian forces are still clinging to a position on the western outskirts despite Russia trying to take the city for more than nine months.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Igor Konashenkov said Sunday that Moscows forces had captured two more districts in the citys west and northwest, but provided no further details.

Ukraines Special Operations Forces on Saturday accused Russia of using phosphorus in the city and on Sunday released a new video showing the telltale white fire from such munitions.

International law prohibits the use of white phosphorus or other incendiary weapons  munitions designed to set fire to objects or cause burn injuries  in areas where there could be concentrations of civilians, though it can also be used for illumination or to create smoke screens.

It wasnt possible to independently verify where the video was shot or when, but chemical weapons expert Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a former British army colonel, said it was clearly white phosphorus.

This is being fired directly at Ukraine positions and this would be a war crime, he said.

I expect because the Russians have failed to take Bakmut conventionally, they are now using unconventional tactics to burn the Ukrainian soldiers to death or to get them to flee.

Russian forces havent commented on the claim, but have rejected previous accusations from Ukraine that they had used phosphorus munitions.

In the south, an aide to the exiled Ukrainian mayor of the Russia-occupied coastal city of Mariupol said in a Telegram post Sunday that there was evidence that Moscows forces had intensified their transfer of tracked vehicles through the city and into Zaporizhzhia province.

Petro Andryushchenko claimed that more and more vehicles were being spotted crossing Mariupol every day.

He posted a short video showing heavy trucks transporting armored vehicles along an expressway, without specifying where or when it was taken.

In Enerhodar, the first residents evacuated were those who took Russian citizenship following the capture of the city by Moscow early in the war, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said.

They were being taken to the Russia-occupied Azov Sea coast, about 200 kilometers (120 miles) to the southeast, which is where Mariupol is located, the General Staff reported on Facebook.

Grossi said Zaporizhzhia plants core operating staff hadnt been evacuated as of Saturday but that most live in Enerhodar and the situation has contributed to increasingly tense, stressful and challenging conditions for personnel and their families.

He added that IAEA experts at the nuclear site are continuing to hear shelling on a regular basis.

Elsewhere, Russian shelling on Saturday and overnight killed six civilians and wounded four others in Ukraines southern Kherson region, according to a Telegram update published Sunday by the local administration.

Five civilians were wounded in the eastern Donetsk province, the epicenter of the fighting in recent months, local Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko reported on Sunday morning.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces overnight attacked the largest port in Russia-occupied Crimea with drones, a Kremlin-installed local official said on Telegram early Sunday.

According to the post by Mikhail Razvozhayev, the governor of Sevastopol, 10 Ukrainian drones targeted the city, three of which were shot down by air defense systems. Razvozhayev said there was no damage.

(AP)




Two oil tankers recently seized by Iran are anchored off the coast of one of its key port cities on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press on Sunday.

The photos from Planet Labs PBC showed the Advantage Sweet and the Niovi being just south of Bandar Abbas near a naval base in the port city in Irans Hormozgan province Saturday. Their capture represents just the latest ship seizure conducted by Iran amid tensions with the West over its rapidly advancing nuclear program, though it appears the two ships may have been taken for different reasons.

Iran seized the Marshall Islands-flagged Advantage Sweet, staffed by 23 Indians and one Russian, on April 27 as it traveled in the Gulf of Oman. Tehran claimed the vessel had struck another ship, though tracking data for the Advantage Sweet showed no erratic behavior on its trip. Iran has made claims in the past over ship seizures to cover for the vessels being taken to use as pawns in negotiations with the West.

The Advantage Sweet carried Kuwaiti crude oil for American energy firm Chevron Corp. of San Ramon, California, at the time of its capture. And its seizure comes as another tanker believed to be carrying Iranian crude disappeared from anchorage off Singapore a year after being identified as trying to evade U.S. sanctions.

The Financial Times, as well as the maritime intelligence firm Ambrey, both have reported that ship named Suez Rajan was seized by order of American authorities. U.S. officials and those associated with the Suez Rajan have not responded to questions about the tankers disappearance while on a westward path.

Satellite images showed a second ship, the Niovi, a Panama-flagged tanker, which was seized by Irans paramilitary Revolutionary Guard on Wednesday as it left a dry dock in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, bound for Fujairah on the UAEs eastern coast. While not carrying any cargo, data from S&P Global Market Intelligence seen by the AP showed the Niovi in July 2020 received oil from a ship known then as the Oman Pride.

The U.S. Treasury in August 2021 sanctioned the Oman Pride and others associated with the vessel over it being involved in an international oil smuggling network that supported the Quds Force, the expeditionary unit of the Revolutionary Guard that operates across the Mideast.

Separately, purported emails published online by Wikiran, a website that solicits leaked documents from the Islamic Republic, suggest that cargo carried by the Niovi was sold on to firms in China without permission.

United Against a Nuclear Iran, which has tracked sanctioned crude shipments by Tehran, strongly suspects the seizure of the Niovi is related to a dispute over a shipment of Iranian oil, said Claire Jungman, the chief of staff of the organization. Iran has said it seized the Niovi over an unspecified court order in Tehran.

The managers of the Niovi did not answer repeated telephone calls for comment. The Greek Coast Guard have said the Niovi was staffed by Greek, Filipino and Sri Lankan sailors.

Meanwhile Sunday, an internet account describing itself as a group of hackers claimed responsibility for allegedly taking down websites associated with Irans Foreign Ministry. The claims of the account GhyamSarnegouni, whose name in Farsi means Rise to Overthrow, were not immediately acknowledged by Iranian media.

However, the Foreign Ministrys website remained down for hours over what it called scheduled maintenance and upgrades.

Cached versions of the websites of Iranian diplomatic posts in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Munich, Germany, and Seoul, South Korea, appeared to have been defaced with a message in Farsi reading: Death to Khamenei, Hail Rajavi. Khamenei refers to Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while Rajavi likely refers to Massoud Rajavi, the long-missing leader of the Iranian exile group Mujahedeen-e-Khalq, or his wife Maryam, who is now the public face of the group.

There is a great revolution in Iran, the uprising will go until the demolition of the palace of oppression, the message read.

Irans foreign ministry spokesman, Nasser Kanaani rejected reports the ministrys websites were hacked, the ministrys telegram channel reported Sunday.

Kanaani said only the pages for news and press releases on the ministrys website were targeted by cyberattacks, but authorities had fixed the problem and it is now available.

(AP)




By Rabbi Yair Hoffman for the Five Towns Jewish Times

There is someone in the Five Towns who is willing to pay a significant amount of money to have the honor of being a sandak at a Bris Milah  any Bris Milah. His purpose, however, is not just to have the Mitzvah of being Sandek  but to be able to get a haircut during Sefirah. This person, and perhaps many others out there as well, would certainly like to hear what the halacha is concerning the night of Lag BaOmer itself.

What are the halachos getting a haircut and listening to music on the evening of Lag BaOmer?

DEBATE AMONG RISHONIM

It is a debate among the Rishonim whether the heter for getting married and getting a haircut on Lag BaOmer is only after the morning (and day) of LaG BaOmer  or on the previous evening as well. Rabbeinu Yerucham, the Tashbatz, and the RiN Shoiv write that the leninecy is only upon the morning and not previously. They write that the notion found in the laws of mourning of Miktzas haYom kjulo does not apply to the previous evening. The Ramban, however, writes that we apply this principle even regarding the laws of mourning during Sfirah.

THE DIFFERENT VIEWS ON SFIRAH

Most readers are already familiar with the two minhagim in regard to Sfirah that are cited in the Ramah in Shulchan Aruch (Orech Chaim 493:3 but see the whole siman). Some are of the view that the mourning starts from Rosh Chodesh Iyar and continues until just before Shavuos. Others started the mourning from the second day of Pesach and end it on Lag BaOmer.

VIEW OF SHULCHAN ARUCH

The simple reading of the Shulchan Aruch (OC 493) is that one may only take a haircut on the morning of the 34th day. However, the reading of the Shulchan Aruch according to the Mahari Assad is that for a wedding  the Mechaber would permit from the night of the 33rd of the Omer.

ASHKENAZIM

It is a debate among the Poskim as to whether Ashkenazim can get married on the night of Lag BaOmer or only in the daytime. It is the opinion of the Ramah, the Levush, the Vilna Gaon and the Machatzis haShekel to permit it only upon morning of the 33rd  after sunrise. That would translate to tomorrow morning and not tonight.

The Leket Yosher, however, and others hold that it is permitted from the evening. The Mor UKetziah and the Mahari Assad write that even the Ramah permits it at night-time!

Some (Eliyahu Rabbah) are of the opinion that the entire debate hinges upon the debate in regard to the recitation of Tachanun at the previous Mincha. In other words, according to those who hold that Tachanun is not recited from Mincha of the day of the 32nd (today), it would be permitted to hold both a wedding and have a haircut on the night of the 33rd. However, both the Machatzis Hashekel and the Mahari Assad write that these two issues are separate and not dependent upon each other.

VIEW OF THE MISHNA BRURAH

The Mishna Brurah cites both opinions and, in regard to marriage, cites the view of the Eliayu Rabbah that Nonetheless, in regard to weddings, I have not seen those who are lenient  except on the day of Lag BaOmer itself and not on the previous evening. The Mishna Brurah, however, is lenient when Lag baomer falls on a Friday  to allow the marriage on the Thursday night of Lag BaOmer.

VIEW OF DAYAN WEISS ZTL

Dayan Weiss (Minchas Yitzchok IV #84) was of the opinion that the wedding should only take place on Lag BaOmer day itself and not continue into the night of the 34th.

VIEW OF RAV MOSHE ZATZAL

Rav Moshe Feinstein ztl, however, argued against the Mishna Brurahs position and allowed for weddings on the night of Lag BaOmer even if it did not fall out on a Thursday night. He writes that one can rely upon the lenient view  especially for one who has not yet fulfilled the Mitzvah of Pru uRvu. I believe that while this view has been widespread in America, in Eretz Yisroel the view of the Mishna Brurah is still the predominant view.

CONCLUSIONS

So what do we do with all this? While each person should ask his own Rav or Posaik, it is the generally accepted view to wait until the actual day of Lag BaOmer for the haircut and unless one is at the wedding itself, to listen to music only at daytime. If there are other reasons to be lenient  a Rav should be consulted.

GENERAL REASONS FOR CELEBRATING LAG BAOMER

A number of reasons are cited by Torah authorities for commemorating Lag BaOmer:

It commemorates the students of Rabi Akiva who ceased dying during this day  although the deaths persisted between Pesach and Shavuos. (Shelah, Pesachim 525). This day is the yahrtzeit of Rabi Shimon bar Yochai, who revealed the inner secrets of the Torah (Chayei Adam Moadim 131:11). This is the day that Rabi Akiva granted ordination to his five students  among them Rabi Shimon bar Yochai. They did not die in the plague that struck Rabi Akivas other students (Pri Chadash OC 493). It also commemorates the manna which began to fall on this day after Bnei Yisrael left Egypt (Responsa Chasam Sofer YD #233 Amnam yadati).

The author can be reached at [email protected]




by Rabbi Yair Hoffman for 5tjt.com

A question was posed to Maran Rav Chaim zatzal regarding Lag BaOmer (cited in Kuntrus Likutei Halachos on Yevamos p. 25):

What exactly is the joy that on Lag BaOmer the students of Rabbi Akiva ceased dying? They were all gone  there were no more left! Thats why they stopped dying.

Rav Chaim answered: Most of them died, but a minority were left. This is similar to what the Baalei Tosfos have written Bava Basra 121a Yom regarding the remnants of those who died in the midbar.

Further question: The Gemorah seems to indicate that the world was barren until Rabbi Akiva came along and went to the Rabbinic masters of the south  that there were none left.

Rav Chaim zatzal answered that of the important ones  none were left and that is why he travelled to the Rabbinic masters in the south.

There are other reason for the celebrations, however that are cited in the words of the rishonim and acharonim.

From the words of the Rema, Shulchan Aruch (O.C. 493:2) who writes that on Lag BOmer we engage slightly in simcha, we would think that marking LaG BaOmer. is not a serious matter. This, however, is incorrect. Observing Lag BOmer is a serious matter. We see this also from the fact that the Magen Avraham cites the Kavanos HaArizal who discusses a certain individual.

This person had the habit of reciting Nachem every day. He continued to do so on Lag BOmer as well. For doing so  he was punished. We see, therefore, that one should take the words of the Rema quite seriously.

A number of other reasons are cited by Torah authorities for commemorating Lag BOmer:

 It commemorates that the students of Rabbi Akiva ceased dying during this day, although the deaths persisted between Pesach and Shavuos. (Shela, Pesachim 525)

 This day is the yahrzeit of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, who revealed the inner secrets of the Torah. (Chayei Adam, Moadim 131:11)

 This is the day that Rabbi Akiva granted ordination to his five students, among them Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. They did not die in the plague that struck Rabbi Akivas other students. (Pri Chadash, O.C. 493)

 It also commemorates the manna, which began to fall on this day after the Bnei Yisrael left Egypt. (Responsa Chasam Sofer, Y.D. #233, Omnam yadati).

We will now elaborate on each.

The Students Of Rabbi Akiva

The Talmud (Yevamos 62b) tells us that 12,000 pairs of Rabbi Akivas students died on account of the fact that they did not extend honor to one another. Rav Chatzkel Levenstein, ztl, asks how it could be that the great students of Rabbi Akiva neglected this most basic of principles.

His answer is most illuminating. Our rabbis teach us that kinah, kavod, and taavahjealousy, the pursuit of honor, and the pursuit of desirestake one out of this world. If so, Rabbi Akivas students reasoned, how can we accord each other this spiritual poison?

Rabbi Levenstein explains (in his sefer on Midos) that they were unaware that, in fact, honor is only poisonous when one seeks it. But when one extends it to another it is not poisonous at all. When we build the self-esteem of others, it is actually quite healthy. Rav Levenstein explains that this notion is very subtle and nuanced and it could well be that the notion itself was only revealed in the world at that time. Why then were they punished? They were smart enough to have been able to figure out this issue by themselves. Having neglected to delve into this psychological insight was their error.

Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai

Rashbi (Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai), whose yahrzeit we observe on this day, merited to compose two extraordinary books that form part of the Zohar. They are the Adara Rabbah and the Adara Zutah. Rav Yosef Chaim, in his responsa (Rav Pealim, Y.D. #156) explains why it was that Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, above and beyond the Tannaim who were his masters, merited to write these extraordinary books. He explains that although his teachers and masters were greater than he was, he had the ability of couching these teachings in esoteric terms. Indeed, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai was so adept at obscuring the true understanding of these thoughts, that they could even be expounded upon publicly, and only those that truly merited understanding them would be able to figure out their inner meaning and import. According to this, we commemorate the fact that Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai not only transmitted these remarkable teachings, but also vouchsafed them in such a manner that they not be abused or taught to those who are unworthy.

Jewish Continuity

The ordination that Rabbi Akiva conferred on his five students was a heroic event that changed the course of Jewish history and that of the world. These students were Rabbi Meir, Rabbi Yehudah, Rabbi Yossi, Rabbi Shimon, and Rabbi Elazar ben Shamoa. Under the pressure of the dark forces of Roman tyranny and religious oppression, these valiant scholars, who were privy to the noblest ideas of the Torah, its teachings, and oral traditions, knew that no matter what the cost, they must ensure the continuity of these teachings. They were the future educators of us all.

It was a point in time when the forces of evil and darkness were pitted against goodness and light. The light of Torah ultimately won out, and Torah Judaism was to affect and alter the world. We commemorate this remarkable event on this day of Lag BOmer.

The Manna

The manna represents the spiritual nourishment that Gad granted the Jewish people upon their departure from Egypt. Manna allowed us, the Jewish people, to develop a close bond, a dveikus, with the Creator that has defined who we are as a nation. Although the manna no longer falls, the admonition that the Jewish people have to continue that bond, to continue imitating Gad and attempting to be like Him, has never ceased.

The Talmud (Shabbos 133b) tells us Mah Hu rachum vchanun af attah rachum vchanun. Just as He is merciful, so should you be merciful. Just as He is kind, so too must you be kind. Just as He clothes the poor, so should you clothe the poor. Just as He buries the dead, so should you bury the dead.

This is the message of the manna that exists to this day, and this is what Lag BOmer commemorates.

Nonetheless, perhaps due to the deaths of so many of Rabbi Akivas students, the minhag is to celebrate a little bit and not to make it into a full-fledged holiday. The Chasam Sofer points out that our Talmud does not mention it as a holiday at all.

So how do we observe this day? The Bnei Yissasschar states that the custom is to light a number of candles in shul. We do not fast on this day, even for a yahrzeit, except in the case of a bad dream. We do not recite Tachanun on this day, nor on the Minchah before it. People get married and attend weddings. We join in with singing and dancing, and we listen to music (see Pri Megadim Eishel Avraham 493:1).

So as we hear the song and dance of the Jewish weddings and the words Od yishama, Let it still be heard in the cities of Yehudah and in the outskirts of Jerusalem, the sound of joy and the sound of happiness, the sound of the groom and the sound of the bride, let us think of these four reasons: Building the self-esteem of others and according others due honor is of utmost importance; vouchsafing the teachings of the Torah is paramount; Jewish continuity and education is key; and the spiritual bond and dveikus that we have with Hashem should be central to our lives.

May Hashem bring the geulah shleimah speedily in our days!

To read more of Rav Chaims Torah, go to orchotyosher.org

The author can be reached at [email protected]




The Israel Polices crisis negotiation unit aided the Romanian police on Friday in ending a 30-hour hostage crisis in Bucharest involving a young child.

The incident began on Thursday morning when amid a family dispute, a Romanian man in his 40s barricaded himself in his home with his 5-year-old daughter and threatened to blow up his house with fuel tanks and gas canisters.

After the Romanian police chief contacted the Israel Polices attache to Romania for assistance, members of the Israeli crisis negotiation unit flew to Bucharest and established a command room with psychologists, officials from the police foreign relations department, researchers, volunteers, and officials from the overseas operations unit.

One of the motivating factors that led the Romanians to turn to the Israeli police was a previous case with very similar circumstances when a father barricaded himself in his home with three of his children. Tragically, despite the Romanian negotiation team expending their maximum efforts, the incident ended with the father murdering his children and taking his own life.

The Israeli team members succeeded in contacting the disgruntled fathers lawyer and instructed him on how to approach and speak to his client. After 30 hours of negotiations, the lawyer entered the house and managed to convince the father to release his daughter and surrender himself to the police.

Following the successful outcome, the Romanian chief of police thanked the Israel Police attache: My friend, thank you very much! Please send my best wishes to the Israeli team. They helped us a lot. Real professionals!

The entire dramatic event was broadcast live on Romanian television stations. The Israeli team members advised the Romanians on how to deal with the possibility that the suspect was watching the broadcasts.

The head of the police operations department, Deputy Commissioner Sigal Bar-Tzvi, praised the work of the unit: The Israel Police is prepared to provide assistance to other police forces around the world as much as it is requested. Our negotiation unit is recognized in the international field as an elite unit and this is not the first time that it has been in demand for assistance outside the countrys borders.

The police stated: The Israel Polices crisis negotiations unit handles complex and challenging incidents during which they focus on the human factor causing the incident with the aim of saving human lives. The units knowledge and extensive operational experience have been of assistance during world crises involving terror, armed incidents, kidnappings, extortions, assistance in locating missing people, and more.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




El Al Airlines recently announced the cancellation of 12 scheduled fights that were scheduled to depart from London to Israel in the coming months, Channel 12 News reported on Sunday evening.

According to the report, for years, El Al has has a popular regular flight, Flight LY318, that departs on Motzei Shabbos from London to Israel. However, during Daylight Saving Time, the check-in procedures for the flight must begin before the end of Shabbos in order for the flight to leave on time.

Now that Kenny Rozenberg, a frum Jew, is the controlling shareholder of El Al, he decided to cancel the flights to avoid Chillul Shabbos.

The company has decided to toughen its Shabbat policy, the report said.

The thousands of passengers who have already booked tickets for the canceled flights will have the option of rescheduling to a Friday flight or receiving a refund.

El Al confirmed the details and said: Due to a change in Shabbat departure times in London, with the transition to summer time, and due to the restrictions on departures from Heathrow Airport, we had to make adjustments to the flight schedule. We apologize for the inconvenience caused to our customers as a result of this change.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Airstrikes over southern Syria early Monday killed one of the countrys most well-known drug dealers, an opposition war monitor and a pro-government radio station reported.

The rare attack came days after Jordan warned it would use force inside Syria to eliminate drug trafficking to its territories and from there to oil-rich Arab gulf nations.

The strikes also come a day after Arab governments reinstated Syria to the Arab League following the countrys suspension for its crackdown on protests that ultimately led to a lengthy civil war. As Arab governments gradually rekindle ties with Damascus, one of the key topics of discussion has been Syrias illicit drug industry, which has flourished during the ongoing conflict  especially the illegal amphetamine Captagon.

Western governments estimate that Captagon has generated billions of dollars in revenue for President Bashar Assad, his Syrian associates and allies. Damascus has denied the accusations.

The first strike hit a home in the Syrian village of Shuab in Sweida province near the Jordanian border, killing Merhi al-Ramthan, his wife and six children, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The opposition war monitor and Sham FM reported another strike in the southern province of Daraa that hit a building. The Observatory said the building housed a drug factory.

Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist who covers developments in southern Syria, also said that one strike killed al-Ramthan and his family in Sweida province. He said the other hit a facility in Daraa province used by Iran-backed groups to produce and store drugs before smuggling them to Jordan. He said the strikes happened before dawn Monday, igniting a fire at the drug facility in Daraa province.

The pro-government radio station did not give any further details. There was no immediate comment from either Jordanian or Syrian authorities.

Activists and the war monitor said they believe Jordan is likely behind the airstrike, with the Captagon producer among the most wanted by Jordanian authorities for facilitating drug smuggling across the border with the backing of a small militia. They also say al-Ramthan is close with militias linked to Assad and the Iran-backed Lebanese group Hezbollah.

Jordanian state media shared news of the airstrike, but only cited Syrian media and added that al-Ramthan was wanted by Jordanian authorities. Jordans foreign minister at a press conference Monday following a meeting with his Dutch counterpart said Syria had committed to cooperating with Arab countries on drug smuggling during last weeks talks in Amman, and that he will call his counterpart in Damascus to translate this agreement into a clear mechanism.

Whenever we take any steps to protect our national security and facing any threats towards it, we announce it at the appropriate time, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. When it comes to the case of drugs, as we said before, the surge in drug smuggling is a huge threat to the kingdom, the region, and the world.

Last week, Safadi warned that his country will not stand idle if drug trafficking continues from Syria.

We are not taking the threat of drug smuggling lightly, Safadi told CNN last week. If we do not see effective measures to curb that threat, we will do what it takes to counter that threat, including taking military action inside Syria to eliminate this extremely dangerous threat.

For us, it is a must that we end this crisis because weve suffered tremendously from its consequences, he said.

Al-Masalameh, the opposition activist, said: The war planes were believed to be Jordanian following the threats by the foreign minister.

Jordan has frequently reported busting drug smuggling operations on its border with Syria, with its soldiers sometimes engaging in shootouts with drug cartels trying to break through from southern Syria. In recent years, Jordanian authorities have discovered millions of smuggled Captagon pills, many of which were sent to oil-rich gulf nations.

Both Syria and neighboring Lebanon have become gateways for the drug to the wider Middle East, and particularly to the the Gulf.

In March, the U.S. and U.K. slapped sanctions on four Syrians and two Lebanese involved in manufacturing and trafficking Captagon.

The six included cousins of the Syrian president and well-known Lebanese drug kingpins. Weeks later, the European Union imposed sanctions on several Syrians, including members of Assads family, blaming them for the production and trafficking of narcotics, notably Captagon.

(AP)
The Arab foreign ministers have agreed to form a liaison committee to achieve a ceasefire in Sudan and ensure humanitarian corridors to secure the civilians needs.





The committee also aims to protect state institutions in Sudan from the threat of collapse they face, Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry said in a press conference on Sunday after an emergency meeting of the Arab League.

The decision to form the liaison committee on Sudan reflects the necessity for Arabs to move immediately and effectively, Shoukry said, affirming the need to return to dialogue in Sudan.

It is necessary to return to political dialogue in Sudan as it faces existential threats, he said.

The top Egyptian diplomat also stressed putting Sudan's interest and security before narrow considerations.

Shoukry stressed that the ongoing clashes in Sudan affect its neighbours -- particularly Egypt -- and other nations in the region with whom Sudan has a complex relationship.

He highlighted the Egyptian efforts to receive several Sudanese fleeing the clashes that erupted in mid-April between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Egypt evacuated around 4,000 nationals from Sudan, the top Egyptian diplomat added.

The Arab foreign ministers held a meeting today, chaired by Egypt, at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo to discuss the Syrian crisis and the Palestinian cause.

The league welcomed the return of Syria after suspending its membership for more than a decade and agreed to form a ministerial contact committee to seek a comprehensive solution to the Syrian crisis.

The ministers also held an extraordinary meeting to discuss the challenges facing the Palestinian cause and the means of confronting the Israeli infringement on the rights of the Palestinian people.

They also discussed means to revive the political process and resume negotiations to achieve fair and comprehensive peace and establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

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'More in the hopper': GSK chief exec Emma Walmsley

The boss of pharma giant GSK has confirmed the group is hunting for more acquisitions as it looks to boost its pipeline of new drugs.

On a call discussing the FTSE 100 firms first quarter results, chief executive Emma Walmsley said the company had more in the hopper as it scoped out new takeover targets.

The comments followed a swoop by the pharma firm earlier this month on Bellus Health in a deal that valued the Canadian drugmaker at 1.6billion.

It was the largest takeover since GSK spun out its consumer health arm Haleon last summer as part of a strategy by Walmsley to focus on new and profitable medicines to treat cancer and other illnesses, after years of criticism about the companys performance.

The takeover of Bellus also followed the purchase last year of cancer drug maker Sierra Oncology and vaccine maker Affinivax for 1.5billion and 2.7billion respectively.

We are absolutely delighted with the deals we have announced in the last couple of months, we do intend to do more, the chief executive said.

There is more in the hopper, but obviously we cannot share details on that.
StockNews.com downgraded shares of WEC Energy Group (NYSE:WEC  Get Rating) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note issued to investors on Friday morning.

Other equities research analysts also recently issued research reports about the company. 888 restated a maintains rating on shares of WEC Energy Group in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on WEC Energy Group from $109.00 to $106.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on WEC Energy Group from $99.00 to $105.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, Bank of America decreased their price objective on WEC Energy Group from $106.00 to $103.00 in a report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $98.80.

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WEC Energy Group Stock Performance

Shares of WEC stock opened at $96.01 on Friday. WEC Energy Group has a 12 month low of $80.82 and a 12 month high of $108.39. The firms 50 day moving average is $94.06 and its 200 day moving average is $93.85. The company has a current ratio of 0.75, a quick ratio of 0.52 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.32. The stock has a market capitalization of $30.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.43, a PEG ratio of 3.60 and a beta of 0.40.

WEC Energy Group Announces Dividend

WEC Energy Group ( NYSE:WEC Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, May 1st. The utilities provider reported $1.61 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.58 by $0.03. WEC Energy Group had a return on equity of 11.60% and a net margin of 14.10%. The firm had revenue of $2.89 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.90 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.79 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down .7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that WEC Energy Group will post 4.6 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 12th will be given a dividend of $0.78 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 11th. This represents a $3.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.25%. WEC Energy Groups payout ratio is 72.90%.

Institutional Trading of WEC Energy Group

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Kentucky Retirement Systems raised its holdings in WEC Energy Group by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems now owns 24,800 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,325,000 after acquiring an additional 108 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in WEC Energy Group by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 4,799 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $444,000 after acquiring an additional 108 shares during the last quarter. Capital Advisors Inc. OK raised its holdings in WEC Energy Group by 3.1% in the 4th quarter. Capital Advisors Inc. OK now owns 3,739 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $351,000 after acquiring an additional 111 shares during the last quarter. Mission Wealth Management LP raised its stake in WEC Energy Group by 2.4% during the 4th quarter. Mission Wealth Management LP now owns 4,896 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $459,000 after buying an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC raised its stake in WEC Energy Group by 12.1% during the 4th quarter. Stonebridge Capital Advisors LLC now owns 1,059 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $99,000 after buying an additional 114 shares during the last quarter. 74.05% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

WEC Energy Group Company Profile

(Get Rating)

WEC Energy Group, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the generation and distribution of electricity and natural gas. It operates through the following segments: Wisconsin, Illinois, Other States, Electric Transmission, Non-Utility Energy Infrastructure and Corporate & Other. The Wisconsin segment refers to the electric and gas utility operations.

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Bright Health Group (NYSE:BHG  Get Rating) will be announcing its earnings results before the market opens on Tuesday, May 9th. Analysts expect the company to announce earnings of ($0.11) per share for the quarter. Bright Health Group has set its FY 2023 guidance at EPS.Investors interested in participating in the companys conference call can do so using this link.

Bright Health Group (NYSE:BHG  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, March 1st. The company reported ($0.34) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.54) by $0.20. The firm had revenue of $551.43 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.72 billion. Bright Health Group had a negative return on equity of 195.41% and a negative net margin of 26.01%. On average, analysts expect Bright Health Group to post $0 EPS for the current fiscal year and $0 EPS for the next fiscal year.

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Bright Health Group Stock Performance

BHG stock opened at $0.15 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $96.54 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -0.06 and a beta of 0.42. Bright Health Group has a 1 year low of $0.13 and a 1 year high of $2.38. The stocks fifty day moving average is $0.28 and its two-hundred day moving average is $0.65.

Insider Activity at Bright Health Group

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Bright Health Group

In related news, CFO Cathy R. Smith sold 114,173 shares of Bright Health Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $0.40, for a total transaction of $45,669.20. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 289,157 shares in the company, valued at $115,662.80. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website . In related news, CFO Cathy R. Smith sold 114,173 shares of Bright Health Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $0.40, for a total transaction of $45,669.20. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 289,157 shares in the company, valued at $115,662.80. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website . Also, CEO George Lawrence Mikan III sold 394,896 shares of Bright Health Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $0.40, for a total value of $157,958.40. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 210,318 shares in the company, valued at $84,127.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders have sold a total of 574,032 shares of company stock worth $229,613 over the last ninety days. 58.40% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Alliancebernstein L.P. boosted its position in Bright Health Group by 24.4% during the 4th quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 292,300 shares of the companys stock worth $190,000 after acquiring an additional 57,400 shares during the period. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio boosted its position in Bright Health Group by 456.6% during the 4th quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 122,445 shares of the companys stock worth $80,000 after acquiring an additional 100,445 shares during the period. Virtu Financial LLC boosted its position in Bright Health Group by 73.7% during the 4th quarter. Virtu Financial LLC now owns 90,632 shares of the companys stock worth $59,000 after acquiring an additional 38,460 shares during the period. Deer Management Co. LLC boosted its position in Bright Health Group by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Deer Management Co. LLC now owns 79,937,724 shares of the companys stock worth $51,952,000 after acquiring an additional 624,252 shares during the period. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP lifted its holdings in shares of Bright Health Group by 60.2% during the 4th quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 52,503 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 19,731 shares during the last quarter.

Bright Health Group Company Profile

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Bright Health Group, Inc, a healthcare company, provides health insurance policies in the United States. It operates in two segments, NeueHealth and Bright HealthCare. The NeueHealth segment delivers virtual and in-person clinical care services to patients under contracts through its owned and affiliated primary care clinics.

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Arizona State Retirement System raised its position in shares of Texas Pacific Land Co. (NYSE:TPL  Get Rating) by 2.8% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 1,748 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 47 shares during the quarter. Arizona State Retirement Systems holdings in Texas Pacific Land were worth $4,098,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of TPL. BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in Texas Pacific Land by 18.8% in the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 345,031 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $613,200,000 after acquiring an additional 54,723 shares in the last quarter. Lion Long Term Partners LP acquired a new stake in shares of Texas Pacific Land in the 4th quarter worth $118,618,000. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in Texas Pacific Land by 8.2% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 629,117 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $850,635,000 after buying an additional 47,484 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its position in Texas Pacific Land by 17.0% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 153,483 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $207,526,000 after buying an additional 22,265 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Continental Investors Services Inc. grew its stake in shares of Texas Pacific Land by 6,300.0% during the third quarter. Continental Investors Services Inc. now owns 19,584 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $33,949,000 after acquiring an additional 19,278 shares during the last quarter. 58.95% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have issued reports on TPL shares. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Texas Pacific Land in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on Texas Pacific Land from $1,396.00 to $1,399.00 in a research note on Thursday, April 27th.

Texas Pacific Land Trading Up 2.2 %

TPL opened at $1,412.15 on Monday. Texas Pacific Land Co. has a 12-month low of $1,250.01 and a 12-month high of $2,739.00. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $1,658.33 and a two-hundred day moving average of $2,053.93. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.86 billion, a PE ratio of 25.05 and a beta of 1.87.

Texas Pacific Land (NYSE:TPL  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 22nd. The financial services provider reported $12.94 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $15.14 by ($2.20). The business had revenue of $152.71 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $171.71 million. As a group, analysts predict that Texas Pacific Land Co. will post 54.93 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Texas Pacific Land Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, June 8th will be given a dividend of $3.25 per share. This represents a $13.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.92%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, June 7th. Texas Pacific Lands dividend payout ratio is presently 23.06%.

About Texas Pacific Land

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Texas Pacific Land Corp. operates as a landowner in the State of Texas. Its surface and royalty ownership allow revenue generation through the entire value chain of oil and gas development, including through fixed fee payments for use of the firms land, revenue for sales of materials used in the construction of infrastructure, providing sourced water and treated produced water, revenue from its oil and gas royalty interests, and revenues related to saltwater disposal on land.

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Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK  Get Rating) by 15.1% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 779,383 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 101,965 shares during the quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd.s holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $35,488,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in BK. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can bought a new position in Bank of New York Mellon during the third quarter worth about $55,646,000. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in Bank of New York Mellon by 1.8% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 67,626,336 shares of the banks stock worth $2,604,967,000 after purchasing an additional 1,183,130 shares during the period. Victory Capital Management Inc. grew its holdings in Bank of New York Mellon by 13.8% during the third quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 9,278,963 shares of the banks stock worth $357,425,000 after purchasing an additional 1,127,786 shares during the period. LMR Partners LLP bought a new position in Bank of New York Mellon during the third quarter worth about $37,030,000. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP grew its holdings in Bank of New York Mellon by 99.3% during the third quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 1,728,480 shares of the banks stock worth $66,583,000 after purchasing an additional 861,031 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.29% of the companys stock.

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Bank of New York Mellon Stock Up 2.7 %

Bank of New York Mellon stock opened at $41.17 on Monday. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a 1-year low of $36.22 and a 1-year high of $52.26. The firm has a market capitalization of $32.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.03, a P/E/G ratio of 1.08 and a beta of 1.07. The company has a current ratio of 0.69, a quick ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.92. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $45.14 and a 200 day simple moving average of $45.95.

Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement

Bank of New York Mellon ( NYSE:BK Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 18th. The bank reported $1.12 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.09 by $0.03. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 11.98% and a return on equity of 11.45%. The business had revenue of $4.36 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.40 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.86 EPS. Bank of New York Mellons revenue was up 11.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts predict that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 4.75 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, May 11th. Shareholders of record on Friday, April 28th will be issued a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.59%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 27th. Bank of New York Mellons payout ratio is 46.84%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

BK has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $46.00 to $47.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $64.00 to $62.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $42.00 to $41.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $44.00 to $49.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 19th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Bank of New York Mellon 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 sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bank of New York Mellon currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $51.61.

Bank of New York Mellon Company Profile

(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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Russell Investments Group Ltd. lifted its position in PPL Co. (NYSE:PPL  Get Rating) by 7.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,115,823 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 73,681 shares during the quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd.s holdings in PPL were worth $32,605,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of PPL by 3.8% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 93,472,081 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,369,517,000 after purchasing an additional 3,419,854 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of PPL by 1.5% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 44,600,491 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,140,463,000 after purchasing an additional 663,763 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its stake in shares of PPL by 6.4% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 12,884,134 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $367,969,000 after purchasing an additional 775,294 shares during the last quarter. Barclays PLC grew its holdings in PPL by 31.7% during the third quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 7,376,045 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $186,982,000 after acquiring an additional 1,776,940 shares during the period. Finally, Cohen & Steers Inc. grew its holdings in PPL by 107.1% during the third quarter. Cohen & Steers Inc. now owns 6,209,560 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $157,412,000 after acquiring an additional 3,210,872 shares during the period. 70.02% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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PPL Stock Up 0.2 %

Shares of PPL opened at $28.75 on Monday. The company has a current ratio of 1.23, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.03. PPL Co. has a 12 month low of $23.47 and a 12 month high of $31.74. The stocks 50 day moving average is $27.77 and its two-hundred day moving average is $28.32. The firm has a market cap of $21.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.38, a PEG ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.77.

PPL Increases Dividend

PPL ( NYSE:PPL Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $0.48 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.44 by $0.04. PPL had a return on equity of 7.81% and a net margin of 9.00%. The company had revenue of $2.42 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.86 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.41 earnings per share. PPLs quarterly revenue was up 35.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that PPL Co. will post 1.58 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, April 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 10th were paid a $0.24 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 9th. This is a positive change from PPLs previous quarterly dividend of $0.23. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.34%. PPLs payout ratio is currently 91.43%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

PPL has been the topic of several analyst reports. Barclays initiated coverage on PPL in a report on Wednesday, January 18th. They set an equal weight rating on the stock. StockNews.com initiated coverage on PPL in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. TheStreet raised PPL from a c+ rating to a b rating in a report on Thursday. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on PPL from $29.00 to $32.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. Finally, Mizuho dropped their target price on PPL from $32.00 to $28.00 in a report on Monday, March 20th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, PPL has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $31.00.

Insider Transactions at PPL

In other news, insider John R. Crockett III sold 5,500 shares of PPL stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, April 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $28.00, for a total value of $154,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 9,161 shares of the companys stock, valued at $256,508. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.17% of the companys stock.

About PPL

(Get Rating)

PPL Corp. engages in the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. It operates through the two reportable segments: Kentucky Regulated & Pennsylvania Regulated. The Kentucky Regulated segment consists of LKEs regulated electricity generation, transmission and distribution operations of Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company as well as regulated distribution and sale of natural gas of Louisville Gas and Electric Company.

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Thrivent Financial for Lutherans lowered its holdings in Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE  Get Rating) by 37.8% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 279,039 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 169,590 shares during the quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans owned approximately 0.09% of Sempra Energy worth $43,128,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 28,199,642 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $4,228,254,000 after acquiring an additional 625,052 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 0.7% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 3,795,347 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $638,074,000 after acquiring an additional 24,679 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 2.8% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 2,935,160 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $440,097,000 after acquiring an additional 80,852 shares in the last quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC raised its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 16.8% in the 3rd quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC now owns 2,540,802 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $381,066,000 after acquiring an additional 366,259 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp raised its position in shares of Sempra Energy by 7.5% in the 3rd quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp now owns 2,388,520 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $358,329,000 after acquiring an additional 166,839 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 84.75% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Sempra Energy

In related news, CEO Jeffrey W. Martin sold 19,260 shares of Sempra Energy stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $146.09, for a total transaction of $2,813,693.40. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 1 shares in the company, valued at $146.09. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Sempra Energy news, CFO Trevor I. Mihalik sold 2,306 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $148.50, for a total transaction of $342,441.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 21,362 shares in the company, valued at $3,172,257. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Jeffrey W. Martin sold 19,260 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $146.09, for a total value of $2,813,693.40. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 1 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $146.09. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 31,979 shares of company stock worth $4,728,393 in the last ninety days. Insiders own 0.24% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Sempra Energy Stock Up 0.9 %

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on SRE. Bank of America decreased their target price on Sempra Energy from $173.00 to $165.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on Sempra Energy from $150.00 to $164.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. StockNews.com started coverage on Sempra Energy in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Wells Fargo & Company reduced 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, BMO Capital Markets reduced 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. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $167.25.

Sempra Energy stock opened at $154.92 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $48.75 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.96, a PEG ratio of 3.81 and a beta of 0.73. Sempra Energy has a 12 month low of $136.54 and a 12 month high of $176.47. The company has a current ratio of 0.54, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $151.01 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $155.01.

Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The utilities provider reported $2.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.76 by $0.16. The firm had revenue of $6.56 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.04 billion. Sempra Energy had a return on equity of 10.20% and a net margin of 14.47%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 71.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.91 EPS. Equities analysts predict that Sempra Energy will post 8.96 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Sempra Energy Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Saturday, April 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 22nd were paid a $1.19 dividend. This is an increase from Sempra Energys previous quarterly dividend of $1.15. This represents a $4.76 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.07%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 21st. Sempra Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 61.34%.

Sempra Energy Profile

(Get Rating)

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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Egypts Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry arrived in Chad on Monday and will head next to South Sudan for coordination with both countries on the developments of the Sudanese crisis which erupted in mid-April.

Shoukrys trip comes in the context of the coordination with neighbouring states on developments of the crisis in Sudan and its regional and international impacts, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Egypt is also liaising with neighbouring countries to coordinate efforts in order to solve the crisis and preserve the integrity of the Sudanese people and the stability of their nation, the statement added.

             pic.twitter.com/WFcUSIt10i  Egypt MFA Spokesperson (@MfaEgypt) May 8, 2023

During his visits to N'Djamena and Juba, Shoukry will carry a message from Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby and South Sudans President Salva Kiir, the ministry said, without further elaboration.

The Spokesperson of the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Abu Zeid stressed the need to intensify coordination and consultation between Sudans neighbouring countries as they are the most keen on the stability [of Sudan] and integrity of its people.

The ongoing Sudanese crisis casts a shadow over fragile and tense regional conditions, the spokesman said, warning that the continuation of the crisis would have dangerous repercussions on the stability of the entire region and on Sudans integrity and stability.

Abu Zeid also highlighted The significant humanitarian suffering that the Sudanese people are going through as a result of the continued fighting and military confrontations.

Egypt, Sudans northern neighbour, has been pushing for a ceasefire to the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The conflict has thus far killed hundreds of Sudanese people, injured thousands of others and caused tens of thousands to flee the country amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation.

Egypt has also welcomed the start of initial talks between representatives of the two conflicting sides on Saturday  the first since the conflict occurred  in Saudi Arabias Jeddah city.

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Egypt said it is exempting the ship that will be involved in the salvage operation of the FSO Safer oil supertanker off the Yemeni coast on the Red Sea from transit fees charged for navigating through the Suez Canal.

Exempting the ship during its trip to the Yemeni coast is a contribution from Egypt to the international efforts in this regard, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Sunday.

The step also comes in continuation of the Egyptian efforts to contribute to the international endeavours to settle the Yemeni crisis and alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people, the ministry added.

The United Nations has been working to prevent a massive oil spill from the decaying 47-year-old FSO Safer. The supertanker carries 1.1 million oil barrels and has remained with little or no maintenance since the war in Yemen broke out in 2015.

The UN plans to remove the oil from FSO Safer through the Nautica supertanker, which it has purchased for $55 million. Nautica departed from China early in April and is scheduled to arrive to its destination this month.

The UN had planned to start the salvage operation earlier. However, it had fallen short of raising the $129 million needed for the salvage operation.

The UN warned that FSO Safer is in an advanced state of decay and will soon break apart or explode if the world fails to act. FSO Safer is holding an amount of oil that, if spilled, would be the worlds fifth largest oil spill from a tanker, the UN added.

Last month, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen David Gressly met with Ambassador Alaa Moussa, assistant to Egypts foreign minister for Arab affairs, in Cairo to discuss international efforts to salvage FSO Safer.

Gressly and Moussa discussed the financial shortage obstructing the salvage operation. Gressly voiced appreciation for Egypts role in supporting international efforts to resolve the crisis.

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Egypts initiative enabling citizens outside the country to import cars free of customs duties and taxes has brought in $713 million in transfers since its launch in October 2022, or nearly 30 percent of its original target, according to figures released by Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait on Monday.

Egypt launched the car import initiative in October 2022 to attract foreign currency, with a revenue target of $2.5 billion.

According to Maaits statement, more than 141,000 Egyptian expats have signed up online for the initiative and 1,100 cars have been released.

He stressed that the registration for the initiative is set to be closed in seven days.

Egyptians over the age of 16 with valid residence permits and foreign bank accounts can import one private passenger car for personal use within five years of enrolling in the initiative.

Participants are required to invest the saved customs duties and taxes in foreign currency in an interest-free five-year certificate of deposit, which can be recovered in Egyptian pounds at the end of the period according to the exchange rate at that time.

Those who live in countries without trade agreements with Egypt can still enroll and receive a 70 percent discount on customs duties.

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The Arab League readmitted Syria on Sunday after more than a decade of suspension, consolidating a regional push to normalise ties with President Bashar al-Assad in a move criticised by Washington.

The decision said Syria could resume its participation in Arab League meetings immediately, while calling for a resolution of the crisis resulting from Syrias civil war, including the flight of refugees to neighbouring countries and drug smuggling across the region.

While Arab states including the United Arab Emirates have pressed to end Assads isolation, some have been opposed to full normalisation without a political solution to the Syrian conflict, seeking conditions for Syrias return.

Qatar, which had previously opposed Syrias return to the League, said its position on normalisation had not changed and it hoped regional consensus on Syria could be a motive for the Syrian regime to address the roots of the crisis, a foreign ministry spokesperson told state news agency QNA.

The reinstatement of Syria does not mean normalisation of relations between Arab countries and Syria, Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit told reporters in Cairo. This is a sovereign decision for each country to make.

Syria called on Arab states to show mutual respect.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson said Washington shared the goals of Arab partners in Syria, including building security and stability, but remained sceptical of Assads willingness to take the steps necessary to resolve Syrias crisis.

We do not believe Syria merits readmission into the Arab League at this time, the spokesperson said, adding that U.S. sanctions would remain in full effect.

But Russia, an Assad ally, hailed Syrias readmission.

Moscow welcomes this long-awaited step, the logical result of the process, which has gained momentum, of returning Syria to the Arab family,' Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russias Foreign Ministry, said in a statement.

CAPTAGON TRAFFICKING

Sundays decision said Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt and the Arab Leagues Secretary General would form a ministerial group to liaise with the Syrian government and seek solutions to the crisis through reciprocal steps.

Practical measures included continuing efforts to facilitate the delivery of aid in Syria, according to a copy of the decision seen by Reuters.

Syrias readmission follows a Jordanian initiative laying out a roadmap for ending Syrias conflict that includes addressing the issues of refugees, missing detainees, drug smuggling and Iranian militias in Syria.

Jordan is both a destination and a main transit route to the oil-rich Gulf countries for captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine produced in Syria, and has hinted it could take unilateral action to curb the multi-billion dollar trade.

A Jordanian official said Syria would need to show it was serious about reaching a political solution, since this would be a pre-condition to lobbying for any lifting of Western sanctions, a crucial step for funding reconstruction in Syria.

Syrias membership of the Arab League was suspended in 2011 after the crackdown on street protests against Assad that led to the civil war. Several Gulf states including Saudi Arabia began backing rebel groups fighting to oust Assad from power.

Assad later regained control over much of Syria with the help of his main allies Iran and Russia, but the war cost hundreds of thousands of lives and led millions to flee the country. Syria remains splintered with its economy in ruins.

Recently, Arab states have been trying to reach consensus on whether to invite Assad to an Arab League summit on May 19 in Riyadh to discuss the pace and conditions for normalising ties.

Responding to a question over whether Assad could participate, Aboul Gheit told reporters: If he wishes, because Syria, starting from this evening, is a full member of the Arab League.

Saudi Arabia had long resisted restoring relations with Assad but said after its recent rapprochement with Iran  Syrias key regional ally  that a new approach was needed with Damascus.

SOURCE: REUTERS
Russia launched a wave of drone, missile and air strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, officials said on Monday, as Moscow stepped up attacks while preparing for its cherished Victory Day holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

As many as 16 missile strikes had targeted the cities of Kharkiv, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Odesa regions, in addition to 61 airstrikes and 52 rocket salvos on Ukrainian positions and populated areas, the General Staff of Ukraines armed forces said in its morning update on the fighting.

Ukrainian air defences destroyed all 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones Russia had launched, the military said.

Kyivs mayor said at least five people were wounded in the capital amid damage to a fuel depot, cars, buildings and infrastructure.

Unfortunately, there are dead and wounded civilians, high-rise buildings, private homes and other civilian infrastructure were damaged, the military said.

A food warehouse was set ablaze in the Black Sea city of Odesa.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the reports.

The fresh attacks come as Moscow prepares for Tuesdays Victory Day parade, a key event for President Vladimir Putin who has evoked the spirit of the Soviet triumph over Nazi Germany, having accused Ukraine of being in the grip of a new kind of fascism.

Ukraine and its allies say the accusation was a baseless pretext for Russias unprovoked invasion in February, 2022, which resulted in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War Two, killing thousands and forcing millions to flee the country.

We must always be prepared for enemy treachery and defence, Ukrainian deputy defence minister Hanna Malyar said in a post on the Telegram messaging app.

Russia stepped up shelling of Bakhmut, hoping to take it by Tuesday, Ukraines top general leading the besieged citys defence said, after Russias Wagner mercenary group appeared to ditch plans to withdraw from it.

Three people were injured in blasts in Kyivs Solomyanskyi district and two when drone wreckage fell in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capitals centre, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram.

Kyivs military administration said drone wreckage fell on a runway at Zhuliany airport, one of the capitals two passenger airports, drawing emergency services there, although there was no fire.

Drone debris seemed to have hit a two-storey building in the central district of Shevchenkivskyi, causing damage, it added.

Reuters witnesses said they heard numerous explosions in Kyiv, with local officials saying air defence systems were repelling the attacks.

Flames had completely engulfed a large structure identified as a food warehouse in pictures posted on Telegram by Serhiy Bratchuk, spokesperson for the Odesa military administration, after what he said was a Russian attack.

After air raid alerts blared for hours over roughly two-thirds of Ukraine, media said explosions sounded in the southern region of Kherson and southeastern Zaporizhzhia.

Vladimir Rogov, a Russian-installed official in Zaporizhzhia, said Russian forces hit a warehouse and Ukrainian troops position in the small city of Orikhiv. Reuters was unable to independently verify the report.

Separately, Russian forces shelled eight spots in Sumy in northeastern Ukraine on Sunday, the regional military administration said in a Facebook post.

Strikes have also intensified in the past two weeks on Russian-held targets, especially in Crimea.

Ukraine has not confirmed any role in those attacks but it says destroying enemy infrastructure is preparation for its long-awaited ground assault.

SOURCE: REUTERS
The Hudson Valley was the initial test case for an interactive mapping system developed by the U.S. Department of Defense to plan food-supply disaster response. The system under development by military and federal emergency responders will be used to understand the challenges and weaknesses of a localized food system in times of crisis or natural disasters by pinpointing key locations for food production and community-level distribution.

The U.S. Military Academy in Orange County, commonly referred to as West Point, gathered data needed to map and assess systems related to critical human needs at the Center for the Study of Civil-Military Operations at West Point. The Civil Information Sharing Project assisted in fundraising and some of the work for the initial test as a nonprofit independent of West Point.

The project is also instructional. It teaches cadets how to work with civilian entities when offering humanitarian assistance or entering a conflict zone.

Establishing food security is military commanders priority when they enter a conflict zone on humanitarian missions.

(Military commanders) are always worried about, How do we keep people fed in a conflict? How do you take care of the civilians? After a disaster, people are hungry and theres a desperation that settles in, said Lynndee Kemmet, who is spearheading the Hudson Valley project. Kemmet has served in the U.S. Marine Corps, Army National Guard and is the president of the Columbia County Farm Bureau.

The surveys for the initial test were conducted in the summer and fall of 2019 by the Hudson Valley Agribusiness Development Corporation, which collected most of the data for the project. It provided a sampling of information about food production, distribution, labor and transportation in the Hudson Valley by surveying farmers, distributors, retailers, farmers markets and food banks.

Kemmet released a draft of the Hudson Valley tests findings to the military in March of last year.

What we did in the Hudson Valley was test the system: Go out and collect data, submit it into the system, see how well the system maps it, then see what we can do with the data, Kemmet said.

Survey questions revolved around where and how food is processed, stored and distributed, locating food distribution points and their capacity to support the local population. Other questions concerned labor challenges, water access, electricity and transportation.

Among those surveyed were 24 farms, 31 food distributors  both private and nonprofit  and 11 commercial food retailers.

When its a test case, youre looking to see how seamlessly the collected data uploads to a system so that the tech developers can make adjustments, Kemmet said.

Provided by Combat Capabilities Development Command Center

Once the mapping system is completed, emergency managers can click on icons for survey information, such as a tractor icon that shows where a farm is located.

New York farms rank third in the nation for the highest local food sales directly to consumers through outlets such as on-farm stores. Most U.S. farms sell their direct-to-market produce exclusively within 100 miles of the farm.

Including farm-to-market routes in the mapping system is one way that military commanders can better understand local communities and their food insecurities on a daily basis and in times of crisis. In the Hudson Valley, farmers donate portions of their produce to nonprofit organizations with food assistance programs such as food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters.

The neighborhood-level pantries are the lifeline for many families, said Todd Erling, HVADCs executive director. Its multi-layered in the food system. Its not just getting the food to the retail or commercial outlet, its the energy required in the production and process of it  washing, refrigerating, packing it. And finding the drivers, CDL drivers are skilled workers. Were seeing that as a real issue for food delivery and distribution. All of those layers add to the challenges.

The FeedHV program through HVADC has worked with over 300 volunteers, some 200 donors and more than 150 agencies since 2017 to provide more than 400,000 meals to those in need.

The issue of food security is complex. It involves more than just gathering food items  its about physical and economic access to sufficient food. For a community to be secure, it means its residents are not living in hunger or the fear of hunger, according to the United State Agency for International Development.

A lot of people dont realize that the military is fully focused on food security, Kemmet said. Youve got to take care of the civilian population.  What is needed to get things up and running? Maybe the problem isnt food  its the transportation network.

Given the success of the Hudson Valley test case that started in 2019, the military is taking the system to the next level  mapping all the networks feeding New York City, not just the Hudson Valley. New Yorks economy, the third largest in the country, is fueled by the New York City metropolitan area. The New York City project is expected to serve as a model for other cities, as the project grows into a national database.

While research will continue to be conducted from West Point, additional funding is coming from the Combat Capabilities Development Command Center to update the system, revise the initial map and digitize surveys.

The ultimate goal is to better respond to crises affecting food security in the U.S. and abroad.

The Hudson Valley test case  the initial test, is a small step forward, Kemmet said.
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DREXEL HILL, Pa. (AP)  In the hours before he's due at Upper Darby High School, senior Khalid Doulat has time to say prayers, help his mother or prepare for track practice.

It's a welcome shift from last year for him and thousands of students at the school, which pushed its start time back by more than two hours  from a 7:30 a.m. start time to 9:45 a.m. One goal for the change: to ease strains on students that were more visible than ever coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ill be honest, Ive been much happier in the mornings, Doulat said. Ive been more positive, and Ive come to school smiling more rather than, you know, grudging out of bed and stuff like that at 7:30.

The idea of later school start times, pushed by many over the years as a way to help adolescents get more sleep, is getting a new look as a way to address the mental health crisis affecting teens across the U.S.

For some schools, the pandemic allowed experimentation to try new schedules. Upper Darby, for one, initially considered later start times in 2019. Ultimately, it found a way to do it this year by using distance learning as a component of the school day.

As students first came back to in-person learning, many dealt with mental health struggles and behavioral issues, Upper Darby Superintendent Daniel McGarry said. Officials saw a breakdown in students respecting the authority of teachers in the classroom.

We had a lot of those things that we were facing and were still working our way through it; were in a much better place, McGarry said. I think our kids feel better. Theyre not 100% better." But, he said, much of the social anxiety students felt after being in online school has dissipated.

During the pandemic, soaring numbers of high school students expressed persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, with girls and LGBTQ+ youth reporting the highest levels of poor mental health and suicide attempts. It doesn't help that research suggests middle and high school students aren't getting enough sleep.

These mental health challenges are already going to happen and then, with the absence of sleep, are much worse, said Orfeu Buxton, director of the Sleep, Health & Society Collaboratory at Penn State University. The same with decision making, suicidal ideation, those kinds of things.

The reasons why high schools start as early as they do  many begin their day before 7:30 a.m.  are lost to the sands of history," Buxton said. But now, he said, everything is baked into that: traffic light patterns, bus schedules and adults work.

Nationally, at least nine states are considering legislation related to school start times, up from four the previous year, according to the National Conference on State Legislatures. California in 2019 became the first and only state to dictate school start times.

Large school systems including Denver, Philadelphia and Anchorage, Alaska, have been looking into later start times.

It can require innovation to forge a new schedule.

At Upper Darby High, the school day technically still begins at 7:30 a.m., with students assigned coursework to be done remotely that ties into their lessons for the day. But they can use the early morning hours as they see fit  they can meet with teachers during office hours, sleep in or finish other homework. Ultimately, the work assigned for the early morning needs to be done, but when is up to students.

I think getting more sleep is definitely helping, Elise Olmstead, a junior. I would be more irritable throughout the day, especially later, because I have a lot of after-school things. I would just have a harder time getting through the day.

The school day still ends by 3 p.m.

Fatima Afrani, a freshman, said that when she gets home, shell usually relax, then help her mom or do homework.

If Im tired I go to sleep, which was not something I was able to do last year. Last year I just had to get my homework done because there wasnt an option of being able to do it later, she said. And so I liked that if I was tired, I could listen to my body and just let myself sleep.

Principal Matthew Alloway said educators have noticed fewer students sleeping in class. The new schedule also has allowed "kids to go to school for exactly what they need, he said. About 400 of the schools 4,250 students attend only through virtual learning  an option it offered to compete with online schools.

Here are your picks for the Best of the Capital Region 2023 We tallied the votes from this years Best of the Capital Region contest in 100 categories.

Critics have argued students have less instruction time in the new schedule. The original 80-minute periods have been shortened, but Alloway said that its not as if lectures always took up the full 80 minutes.

It was sometimes a 60-minute concentrated instructional time. But then there was time to write. There was time to read. There was time to view a video, he said.

Other challenges wrought by the pandemic  teacher shortages, for one  have also benefitted from the schedule change, administrators said. Teachers can take care of themselves and their families in the morning. Administrators have more time to replace staffers who call out sick.

Doulat, the Upper Darby senior, said that even if students cant see the effects every day, theres been a big positive impact.

Its such little changes in our daily lives that we dont notice it, he added. But they slowly start building up, and we actually see the difference within our own lives.

___

Brooke Schultz 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.

___

The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
CLIFTON PARK  The towns highway superintendent has filed a workplace harassment complaint against the town attorney alleging he called him an obscene name during last weeks public Town Board meeting.

Dahn Bull said that Tom McCarthy called him a f__ing pr__ at the May 1 meeting because he thought Bull was texting his compatriots during the meeting. Bull said the moment came at 1:22 minute mark in the recording of the meeting, but McCarthys words were inaudible on the version posted on YouTube. At least one of the people at the meeting, Darlene McGraw, said she heard McCarthy use those words.

I think the attorney is very unprofessional, said McGraw, a disabilities advocate who frequents public meetings. The town attorney was so concerned about Dahn using his cellphone but didnt seem to care that Mark (Heggen), the town comptroller, used his, too.

Just after the alleged named-calling, the meeting recording shows, McCarthy began to question Bull about who the highway superintendent was texting. Bull responded, Why do you want to know what Im doing on my phone? and then asked McCarthy if he feared his comments had been caught on a live microphone. McCarthy said yes, and then no.

His actions were bizarre and irrational as well as inappropriate, Bull wrote in a complaint filed on May 2 with GTM Payroll Services, the firm that handles the towns human resources. It was neither the place, time or necessary action to call out someone on their phone (usage). ... He specifically accosted me to try to intimidate me into admitting some strange machination he had created in his head.

In an email to the Times Union, McCarthy did not deny the allegation but said that Bulls complaint is another very immature action, from a very immature individual.

Mr. Bull was smiling, laughing and giggling as the board discussed a resolution to pay a legal fee arising out of another bad faith complaint that had been filed here under the former board members' direction, McCarthy said. He made a visual show of texting to comrades about the vote, and it does remind me of their texting each other during meetings last year, about town business, during Town Board meetings, in blatant contravention of the Open Meetings law. In fact, when the supervisor was asking a question of him, he was distracted by his texting and wasnt able to hear the question.

This is only the most recent episode in the ongoing dispute between Bull and elected officials over what others have alleged is a toxic work environment in Town Hall. It started about a year ago when three of the five Town Board members voted to hire the New Jersey law firm Bond, Schoeneck and King to investigate employee claims that included an allegation that Supervisor Phil Barrett pushed an employee.

Only three pages of that report  page 1, 50 and 51  were released through a Freedom of Information request. Pages 50 and 51 noted that there was a terse email exchanged between Bull and McCarthys assistant, Meg Springli. In that case, the report noted the root of the problem seems to be a conflict between Mr. Bull and Mr. McCarthy. Both seem to dislike each other and there is a clear lack of trust between the two.

That report also noted that Bull was aligned with the board members who voted for the investigation, while McCarthy was aligned with Barrett and his deputy, Anthony Morelli.

In a letter, McCarthy said the request for the full report was denied because it contains unverified and unsupported opinions and allegations concerning other employees and elected officials, which were found to be without basis or simply irrelevant to the firms investigation. Therefore these portions of the report are being withheld as an unwarranted invasion of privacy.

The unreleased report was followed up with an internal investigation conducted by McCarthy. That February report, which was released to the public, blamed Bull and the board members who voted for the first investigation for creating a toxic work environment. Two of the board members have since resigned. The third member on the all-Republican board, who voted for the investigation, apologized and said she should have never approved the first investigation. She remains on the board.

Meanwhile, Barrett and Bull (also a Republican) are running for reelection. While the towns Republican Committee supports Barrett, its members are backing another candidate for highway superintendent, town employee Michael Traider. This is forcing Bull into a primary.

Over the past few months, Bull has been disparaged on the towns Facebook page by the supervisor when Bull offered salt and sand before a winter storm. Barrett posted that Bull only made that offer to get attention and that it was a misuse of publicly owned material. However, the town often gives away salt and sand prior to a storm.

On the eve of another storm, Bull was banned from posting road updates on the towns website, which he said impeded the need to communicate with residents about our infrastructure, weather emergencies, and accidents causing delays and detours.

Bull said he thinks all of this happened because Barrett and McCarthy assumed he sided with the board members who sought the initial investigation.

They have this idea that Im a mastermind pulling strings to have my people get rid of Phil (Barrett), Bull said. They think that this is true because its how they work. My focus is working with our residents and ensuring that I can freely and openly communicate with our community. They need to stop the political games and get back to doing their jobs.

Bull said he has not heard back from GTM about his complaint and believes nothing will happen as McCarthy is a protected appointee and has a close relationship with the town supervisor.

A GTM official said that his company was not at liberty to discuss the matter due to a confidentiality agreement with its clients.
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EAST GREENBUSH - Four World War II combat veterans will be Greatest Generation panelists at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 11 at the Melvin Roads American Legion Post at 200 Columbia Turnpike, East Greenbush.

Three of the panelists were soldiers during the D-Day Normandy invasion and fought in the Battle of the Bugle. The other was a Navy sailor who survived more than 150 Japanese Kamikaze attacks on his ship.

They are:

Former Army Tech Sgt. Harold Williams, 100, of Albany, served as a radio operator and forward observer with the 62nd Armored Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division as he landed in the first wave of troops on Omaha Beach.

Former Army Cpl. Kenneth Bailey of Delmar, 101, served as driver of the 4th Calvary Regiments commander, as he landed on Utah Beach.

Former Army Cpl. Thomas Catallo, 96, of Waterford, served with the 3111th Signal Battalion that landed at Cherbourg in Normandy, on June 9, 1944.

Former Navy Seaman 1st Class Charles Levesque of Colonie served aboard the amphibious destroyer USS Teton in Leyte Gulf and elsewhere in the Pacific.

Tom Mullins of Green Island, a military historian, veteran advocate and the Rev. Francis A. Kelley Society, a military honor society, spokesman, will moderate.

The discussion will detail how these veterans became part of the Greatest Generation, says Mullins. The focus of the panel discussion will be their remembrances of growing up during the Great Depression, fighting in World War II and transitioning back from war as well as their contributions to their community.

A luncheon and awards ceremony will also be sponsored by the Kelley Society right after the panel discussion.

Right after the panel discussion, Williams will be honored during his belated 100th birthday party during a luncheon. The celebration was originally slated for Jan. 21 but was postponed when he came down with COVID-19.

During a ceremony, Bailey will be inducted into the Kelley Society as its Albany County Hometown Hero. He will receive the societys Medal of Freedom for Valor.

Williams, Catallo and Levesque will receive the societys Medal of Freedom for Merit.

Williams had worked at the Watervliet Arsenal just before he enlisted in the Army in 1942. He fought in seven of the eight military campaigns in the European Theatre of Operations. He fought in the North African, Sicily, St. Lo, Battle of the Hedgerows, Huertgen Forest, Elsenhorn Ridge and Ardennes-Alsace Campaign. He also participated in the invasion of Germany. He finished his combat duty at the Czech border in October 1945. He helped clear concentration camps on the Czech border.

Williams earned an American Theatre Campaign Medal, European-AfricanMiddle Eastern Medal, a World War II Victory Medal, a Presidential Unit Citation, a Republic of France Certificate and Army Occupation  Germany Medal. After the war, he worked for U.S. Postal Service for 35 years, retiring as postmaster of Valatie in 1981. He is the oldest member of McConnell Post American Legion in Valatie and the VFW Post in Stuyvesant Falls.

During the Great Depression, Bailey worked at the Lavery Farm in Delmar picking vegetables and later worked in the repair shop at the farm until he graduated from high school. He was then employed at Orange Motors in Albany. At the outbreak of World War II, he enlisted in the Army and served in the European Theatre of Operations. His unit was surrounded by enemy Panzer tanks and German soldiers during a counter offensive. He earned a Bronze Star Medal for Valor for saving the lives of three men and himself during that attack. He led an effort to escape and evade by moving his crew threw a dry creek bed.

After the war, Bailey went back to work at Orange Motors until retirement in 1991. He still is an active member of the Patriot Guard Riders. Bailey also earned an Army Good Conduct Medal, European-Africa-Middle Eastern Medal with one Silver Star for Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes-Alsace, Central Europe and Rhineland Campaign Medals, World War II Victory Medal, Army Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp, French Legion of Honor Medal, New York State Conspicuous Service Cross, New York State Conspicuous Serviced Star and New York State Medal for Merit.

Catallo worked on the familys farm until he enlisted in the Army in 1943. He served as a cryptographic repairman who worked on secret documents. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge December 1944 to January of 1945 in the Ardennes-Alsace area before the invasion of Germany. He later became part of the Armys Germany occupation force. He received a European-Africa-Middle Eastern Medal and World War II Victory Medal. After the war, he returned home and ran his own business, Catallo Electric Company, from 1946-1991. He has been a long-time member of the Waterford American Legion and the Waterford VFW.

After Levesque enlisted in the Navy he was assigned to the amphibious destroyer USS Teton, which sailed to Pearl Harbor and to Leyte Gulf. He also saw duty off the coasts of the Ryukus Islands and Okinawa where his and other Navy crews conducted offensive and defensive operations for 72 days. During this period, the USS Teton survived more than 150 suicide plane attacks by the Japanese. The USS Teton returned to Subic Bay and stayed there until August 17, 1945. It later sailed to Tokyo Bay for the Japanese surrender on September 2, 1945.

After the war, he worked for the New York Central Railroad and as a master welder for McKinney Steel in Albany. He now volunteers speaking to students at Niskayuna Middle School about World War II. He earned an Asiatic-Pacific Medal with one Battle Star, a World War II Victory Medal and a Navy Occupation Medal with Asia Clasp.

For information regarding the panel, and luncheon, contact Lois Dysard, (518) 265-8765 or loispics@yahoo.com, or Tom Mullins at (518) 272-1749 or jemullins51@hotmail.com.

News of your troops and units can be sent to Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Times Union, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or brownt@timesunion.com.
Wedding season is upon us. And for some happy couples, one step to wedded bliss could become a lot easier. A new state law now licenses friends or family to officiate a wedding for the day.

Lori Sloma-Konicki was the first to receive this license in the city of Poughkeepsie, after her niece and goddaughter Allison Clerkin asked her to officiate her wedding this May, she said.

Clerkin, while raised Catholic, is not very religious. Her aunt, who once drove through a blizzard just to attend her baptism, felt like a much better choice to officiate, she said.

I really wanted to have that personal touch in our ceremony, she said.

Screenshot from the City of Albany website

They considered online ordination, but Sloma-Konickki wasnt entirely comfortable with it, and Clerkin learned some such weddings have been legally contested. This new state law was, as Sloma-Konicki put it, the perfect solution.

It gives a certain amount of freedom, I would think, to the parties of the marriage, said Danielle Gillespie, city clerk and registrar for the city of Albany.

The cities of Albany, Saratoga Springs and Hudson each have instructions and applications online for those wishing to take advantage of the new license. But there are still some limitations, Gillespie said. The one-day officiant license does not, for example, give you a chance to speedrun as many marriages as you could possibly officiate within 24 hours. Its linked to the marriage certificate for the specific couple and expires after the ceremony. That means, while you can get married anywhere in the state, the marriage and officiants licenses must both be issued in the same clerks office. Applicants must also be over 18 and pay a $25 fee.

Submitted by Lori Sloma-Konicki

The legislation was introduced in January 2021, but versions go back as far as 2006, with legislators calling for it as a way to modernize and allow for more intimate ceremonies. It was signed into law in late December and took effect March 28, joining states like California, Massachusetts and Vermont.

But not every city was as prepared. Sloma-Konicki said when she first went to the city chamberlains office this April in Poughkeepsie, they were not aware of the new law. A week later they had the form available, and she credits them with coming up with it so quickly. City Chamberlain Jasmin Davis said the city created the form as soon as they were made aware of the law.

I think that municipalities are trying as quickly as possible to put it in place, said Davis, who expects the option to be popular in a city that processes hundreds of marriages a year.

Screenshot from the City of Saratoga Springs website

In the nearby town of Poughkeepsie, town clerk Felicia Salvatore said they have created forms for the license, but there has been a lack of guidance from the state. Troy City Clerk Maria DeBonis said the city was still drafting legislation for the license fee. In Colonie, where such legislation was passed on April 20, Town Clerk Julie Gansle said they were working to have a form available. Schenectady Deputy City Clerk Ekram J. Phanisnaraine said their office was waiting on more information from the state.

Its a cool thing, Id like to start it soon, Phanisnaraine said.

Sloma-Konicki hopes her officiating her nieces marriage will make the ceremony much more personal. Clerkin and her fiance Eric Mimnaugh are writing their own vows, and Sloma-Konicki is writing her script for the ceremony.

No one else could use the script that they are going to use for their wedding, she said. Its going to be very, very special for me and them.
TROY  A Rensselaer County jury on Monday acquitted a Troy man of the 2022 murder of 46-year-old Maurice Miller inside a city bar.

Jurors deliberated for less than two-and-a-half hours before finding 32-year-old Thaddeus Steed not guilty of second-degree murder and second-degree weapon charges in the March 26, 2022 slaying of Miller, who was shot in the chest about 11:30 p.m. inside a back area of The Bradley bar on Fourth Street.

In August, Steed was arrested following an investigation involving police from Troy and Schenectady, parole officers, the Capital Region Crime Analysis Center and the U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force.

At a trial before County Judge Debra Young, Rensselaer County prosecutors alleged that Steed fired the gun that killed Miller, who died at a local hospital.

Attorney William Roberts, who represented Steed, told the Times Union his client was ecstatic about the verdict.

Roberts said he argued that someone other than his client shot Miller.

He said when Miller entered The Bradley bar, for instance, among those present was another man, wounded in the abdomen, who was acquitted of the March 8, 2012 South Troy murder of Millers cousin, Ska-Kim Miller, a rapper known as Pacino G.I.R. The shooter in that case, Allen McBee, pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter in exchange for a 15-year prison sentence.
Palestinian residents and activists rebuilt a school in the occupied West Bank hours after Israeli forces demolished the premises, the Palestinian News Agency WAFA reported.

Israeli occupation forces on Sunday demolished a Palestinian primary school in the village of Bayt Tamar in Bethlehem, West Bank, citing safety issues, drawing sharp criticism from the European Union which had funded the project.

Palestinians hurled rocks at Israeli forces who fired tear gas at them, as bulldozers moved in on the site.

The EU said it was "appalled" after Israeli forces arrived at dawn at the school site, which a Palestinian Authority official said served 45 students and consisted of five classrooms.

A caravan and classrooms constructed of tin sheeting were cleared out of their contents before the demolition, an AFP correspondent said.

Hours after the demolition, Palestinian residents, activists, and crews from the Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission rebuilt the school, according to WAFA.

Ahmed Nasser, a Palestinian education ministry official, told AFP the school had replaced another school demolished by Israel in 2019.

Nasser referred to the school's remote location, which he said prevents the "displacement and forced eviction" of local Palestinians, charging that Israel "wants to confiscate these lands."

The EU called on Israel to "halt all demolitions and evictions, which will only increase the suffering of the Palestinian population and further escalate an already tense environment."

"Demolitions are illegal under international law, and children's right to education must be respected," the office of the EU representative to the Palestinian Territories said in a statement.

In January, a group of United Nations experts had called for action to stop Israel's "systematic and deliberate" demolition of Palestinian structures.

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Four years after the passage of the landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, we are grossly behind schedule. The required mechanisms for its mandate remain underfunded, and many key bills will need public support to pass the Legislature with only one month left of session.

At this critical moment in history, we are seeing increased efforts to frame climate action as conflicting with the interests of New York businesses. This is dangerous and wrong: Though climate action may be at odds with the near-term interests of the fossil fuel industry and some multinational corporations, it is good for small New York businesses and a growing green economy.

Small businesses are New York states biggest job creator. While Idaho-based Micron is celebrated for projecting 9,000 new jobs in Syracuse over a 20-year period and indirectly driving another 40,000 new jobs in the region, little attention is given to the fact that New Yorks small businesses create nearly 100,000 new jobs annually. These are not famous corporations, but the familiar local and family-owned businesses in your town, plus many startups and niche businesses that you never knew existed. They are the backbone of our economy and our communities.

Yet since the CLCPA passed, countless renewable energy firms, energy efficiency contractors, sustainability consultants, workforce development agencies, and others have been rising to an occasion that has not yet come.

They cannot wait any longer. This month, New York can pass two bills that create much-needed systemic change. The Climate and Community Protection Fund (S.5360/A.6263) would connect the Climate Action Fund established in the 2024 budget with the funding streams, labor protections and other requirements for effective CLCPA implementation. And an upcoming bill would ensure that the new cap-and-invest system creates green jobs, reduces energy bills and protects impacted communities where local businesses struggle most.

There are many bills that address more singular barriers to progress. For example, the NY HEAT Act (S.2016/A.4592) and Stop Climate Polluter Handouts Act (S.3389) would finally eliminate ratepayer subsidies for new gas hookups, our obligation to serve gas in buildings, and the $330 million per year in state subsidies to the fossil fuel industry. The Just Energy Transition Act (S.2935-A/A.4866) would guide the replacement and redevelopment of fossil fuel facilities. The Climate Change Superfund Act (S.2129/A.3351) would require the biggest polluters to cover the cost of cleaning up their mess.

These climate bills will propel the expansion of local green economies, ensuring that New York families, communities and small businesses thrive.

Sign up for the Observation Deck newsletter Read the latest Times Union opinion, perspective and letters to the editor on Mondays by signing up for our Observation Deck newsletter.

New Yorks small businesses were among the most impacted by the pandemic. They are more threatened by the increasing energy costs and supply chain disruptions brought by a changing climate than their national competitors. The energy transition is key to their future stability. Whats more, many small businesses are poised to help with New Yorks energy transition  once the state gets it rolling.

Our business community understands the stakes. We are watching to see if the Legislature funds the promises it made to build a stronger New York economy for all.

Bob Rossi is the executive director of the nonprofit New York Sustainable Business Council. Jon Leland is the chief strategy officer at Kickstarter, a New York-based crowdfunding platform.
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ALBANY  Hnin Wai Lwin Myo and her army physician husband, Myo Min Khaing, fled Myanmar, formerly Burma, in 2013.

The country has been marred by internal conflict since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1948, fueled by disagreements among its 135 internal cultural groups.

Nobody chooses to be a refugee, Myo Min Khaing said. We need more advocacy to get rid of the root cause of refugees.

Because of his military job, Myo Min Khaing needed to seek political asylum, and the couple eventually resettled in Latham in 2016. Hnin Wai Lwin Myo wanted to find a way to unite the countrys sub-groups in her new home. The upcoming Myanmar Multiethnic Showcase: Harmony in Diversity, hosted by her new nonprofit Myanmar Multiethnic Sociocultural Association (MMSA) on Sunday, May 14 at The Egg, is one step towards finding that unity, at least in the Capital Region.

If you go "Myanmar Multiethnic Showcase: Harmony in Diversity, hosted by the Myanmar Multiethnic Sociocultural Association Where: The Egg, Empire State Plaza, Albany

The Egg, Empire State Plaza, Albany When: 2 p.m. Sunday, May 14

2 p.m. Sunday, May 14 Tickets: $15 for Adults, $10 for kids ages 3 to 12. Tickets can be purchased online, in-person or over the phone at 518-473-1845 See More Collapse

What is the common thing between these groups? she said. They want to express their culture.

The couple, who are both physicians, found work in public health, and Hnin Wai Lwin Myo earned her doctorate in public health from the University at Albany. Their work connected them with many Myanmar refugees in the region.

There are a lot of refugee communities here, Hnin Wai Lwin Myo said. And a lot of refugees and immigrant populations are our own people  They need a lot of support for any sector  theres social, economic, and education and language barriers.

To support her fellow refugees, Hnin Wai Lwin Myo formed the MMSA to acknowledge and showcase Myanmars vibrant and varied cultures. The group has a board of directors, but it doesnt have a formal membership with dues or applications in order to be more inclusive.

I thought that a membership was unfair, Hnin Wai Lwin Myo said. Each and every Burmese-descended people can be involved in the organization regardless of their ethnic group or religious group.

Here are your picks for the Best of the Capital Region 2023 We tallied the votes from this years Best of the Capital Region contest in 100 categories.

Since its creation in 2022, the association has connected the local Burmese community through events, participated in the annual Festival of Nations, hosted international guests in partnership with the International Center of the Capital Region and promoted local Burmese businesses.

Hnin Wai Lwin Myo also hopes MMSA encourages the local Myanmar population to engage with the community. People from Myanmar tend to self-isolate and stay removed from American culture thinking there isnt a place within it for them, she said, but with their rich, diverse culture, the people of Myanmar have much to offer.

The May 14 showcase, titled Harmony in Diversity, spotlights some of these offerings. The afternoon will feature handmade food and live performances highlighting individual Myanmar cultures, including a rain drum troupe from the Karen people, a subculture hailing from the eastern part of Myanmar.

I want to emphasize on the importance of acknowledging and celebrating our differences, our different ethnic groups and also our different cultures, while finding ways to work together harmoniously, Hnin Wai Lwin Myo said.
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ALBANY  The state Senates historic rejection of Gov. Kathy Hochuls first nominee for New Yorks chief judge spurred questions about whether the progressive lawmakers who led that fight would carry the same sway in budget negotiations.

That question had frequently been posed in recent months to Hochul, a moderate, and state Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, eliciting responses from the two Democratic leaders that business would carry on as usual.

In the nearly four months since Senate Democrats blocked the nomination of Justice Hector D. LaSalle to the Court of Appeals on the grounds he would not pose a substantial enough bulwark to the conservative direction of the U.S. Supreme Court, the state entered into its most protracted budget negotiations in over a decade.

The fallout resulted in what many political observers in Albany deem as wins for the moderate or suburban flank of the party in the wake of the rejection of LaSalle, a moderate justice who more left-leaning Democrats and a large number of special interest groups and labor organizations had case as anti-abortion, anti-union and anti-due process  labels that many legal observers viewed as unfair.

Progressives did walk away with some budget wins: an increase in minimum wage, albeit far below their goal; robust environmental policies including banning natural gas in new construction; expansion of child care and free meals for school students, although not quite at their desired scope.

But moderates and suburban legislators reaped the biggest headline wins, denying Hochuls housing plan that called for overriding local zoning  her lone policy out of step with her fellow moderates. They also secured a modest increase in charter schools; avoidance of the progressive-led plan to increase taxes on the very wealthy and broader discretion for judges to set bail for serious criminal charges.

The Center for Community Alternatives, a progressive criminal justice lobby, successfully led the fight against LaSalle but wrapped up the budget process frustrated by more changes to the states bail laws, which it views as a rollback.

Litigation will certainly flow from this, Katie Schaffer, director of advocacy and organizing at Center for Community Alternatives, told the Times Union on Friday. Schaffer expects that in cases in which public defenders believe bail is excessive, legal action could follow to uphold the standard of the U.S. Bail Act of 1984.

Eli Northrup, policy director of the Bronx Defenders, who lobbies state officials on criminal justice issues, views it similarly.

Certainly if judges are setting bail under the law in an impermissible and excessive amount we will challenge that through the legal process, he said.

While its not atypical for defense attorneys to appeal individual decisions on bail  including Kevin D. Monahan, who is accused of shooting and killing Kaylin Gillis last month after she and her friends entered the wrong driveway in Washington County  the broader concern that the standard passed in the budget is unconstitutional may lead to the latest intraparty fight.

The governors effort to decimate bail wasnt driven by the facts, Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, D-Brooklyn, said on the floor when debating the bill. It was driven by fearmongering, headlines, political expediency and it was reacting to a far-right strategy to weaponize racism and anti-Black narratives about who constitutes the public and who that public needs to be kept safe from.

Walker, an attorney, is one of the architects of the 2019 retooled criminal justice statutes. She has been the most vocal opponent of changes to those measures, stating she was going on a hunger strike in protest during budget negotiations over the last two years.

I will not be amongst those who will be subjecting our people to that level of trauma, Walker said. I will not be amongst those who will send people to deaths door.

She said that when she arrived in Albany as an elected official that she planned to advocate, agitate, legislate and litigate.

The three have not yielded justice, so I am left with no other choice, Walker said. I will see you in court.

At the end of Walkers floor speech, she was greeted by some applause in the chamber. Like some of her fellow Democrats, she voted against the budget bill that included changes to the states bail laws and a long list of other policy measures.

While concerns about the states bail laws continue  Republicans have argued the change this year wont make a substantial difference  other criminal justice policy is expected to take top billing during the final remaining month of the legislative session.

Criminal justice advocates are seeking passage of Clean Slate, which would seal certain conviction records. The policy, presented as a jobs bill, is supported by the states business council and JP Morgan Chase and Co., among other corporate heavyweights. Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie recently signaled possible support for it, after it failed to move through his conference in prior years. The criminal justice advocates are also seeking changes to the states sentencing and parole statutes.

On housing, Hochul has maintained that her plan is not completely dead.

She faced ire from Democrats in the suburbs, who normally align with her. But both houses are coming off elections in which their political supermajorities narrowed and the number of races that were within single-digit points increased, signaling potentially competitive general election races next year.

With concern over not angering their local constituencies, most lawmakers rejected Hochuls housing plan. She could not build a coalition with progressives on her plan to double the housing supply over the next decade. The governor was uninterested in supporting good-cause eviction, a tenant-protection policy that businesses and landlord groups fought against.

On Friday, Hochuls office released an assessment of fair housing, a 247-page report that notes access to community resources, poverty, and substandard housing conditions consistently fall along segregated race and ethnic lines. It calls for policies that Hochul has been trying to convince the Legislature to support, although focusing more specifically on affordable housing.

The report was created on April 20, according to an internal time stamp on it, around the same day news reports began to eulogize Hochuls housing plan that never garnered enough support from either moderates or progressives.
WFO AUSTIN/SAN ANTONIO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, May 8, 2023

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southwestern Fayette County in south central Texas...

* Until 745 PM CDT.

* At 542 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 3 inches of rain have

fallen. Additional rainfall amounts up to 3 inches are possible in

the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Muldoon, Floy and O'Quinn.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

...FLOOD ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 745 PM CDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.

* WHERE...A portion of west central Texas, including the following

county, Taylor.

* WHEN...Until 745 PM CDT.

* IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...

- At 545 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to

thunderstorms just south of Merkel. Minor flooding is ongoing

or expected to begin shortly in the advisory area. Up to 2.25

inches of rain have fallen.

- Additional rainfall amounts up to 0.75 inches are expected

over the area. This additional rain will result in minor

flooding.

- Some locations that will experience flooding include...

Merkel, Camp Butman and Shep.

- This includes the following highways...

Interstate 20 between Mile Markers 272 and 275..

- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

...A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 600 PM CDT

FOR CENTRAL FAYETTE COUNTY...

At 546 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Muldoon, or 9

miles southwest of La Grange, moving east at 10 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to

roofs, siding, and trees.

Locations impacted include...

La Grange, Muldoon, Swiss Alp, Ammannsville, O'Quinn, Mullins Prairie

and Rutersville.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Continuous cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.

Move indoors immediately. Lightning is one of nature's leading

killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to

be struck by lightning.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of northeastern Kimble,

southeastern Menard and west central Mason Counties through 630 PM

CDT...

At 545 PM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Saline, moving northwest at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and nickel size hail.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Long Mountain, London, Saline, Streeter, Hext, Yates Crossing, The

Intersection Of Highway 29 And Ranch Road 1222, The Intersection Of

Us-83 And Ranch Road 1773, Erna, Us-377 Near The Kimble-

Menard County Line and The Intersection Of Us-83 And Highway 29.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

LAT...LON 3077 9985 3099 9968 3080 9933 3054 9953

TIME...MOT...LOC 2245Z 117DEG 7KT 3079 9955

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.88 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Above: From left, Helen OCarroll, Kerry County Museum, adjudicator; Lahaoise Ni Lonargain Ni Chonmhara, Gaelcholaiste Cheitinn, Clonmel, winner of ARTiculation Ireland; Julia Walsh Drohan, Tipperary Museum, ARTiculation Ireland coordinator; and Damien Dullaghan, Tipperary Libraries, adjudicator

Lahaoise Ni Lonargain Ni Chonmhara, a student of Gaelcholaiste Cheitinn, Clonmel, won the All-Ireland final of ARTiculation Ireland, a public speaking competition that promotes the appreciation and discussion of art, artefacts and architecture in secondary schools throughout Ireland.

Lahaoises winning presentation was about her Epiphone PR-5EN guitar.

Two other Tipperary students participated in the All-Ireland final held in The Peoples Museum, Limerick.

They were Abbie Burke, Presentation Secondary School, Clonmel, and Hannah Murphy, Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles.

ARTiculation Ireland seeks to engage students between 16-18 years, regardless of background or experience, with art, artefacts and architecture to develop the confidence and ability to express their opinions and conclusions.

Participating students are offered the chance to deliver a ten-minute presentation before their peers and a wider audience about a work of art, an artefact or piece of architecture of their choice, through a series of internal school heats and regional heats across Ireland, with the chance of being selected to represent their county in the All-Ireland final.

Students involved in ARTiculation Ireland are invited to explore selected local galleries and museums through a series of Discovery Sessions, which are held in the Tipperary Museum, Clonmel or in class.

The days are designed to introduce students and teachers to ARTiculation Ireland, improve personal observation and analysis skills and help participants become more comfortable with the act of public speaking.

Involvement in ARTiculation helps develop pupils verbal and communication skills; raise self-confidence and aspirations; and introduce young people and teachers from all backgrounds and interest groups to their local art institutions.
[May 08, 2023] New Study by Impact Capital Managers and Morrison Foerster Shows Almost Two-Thirds of Impact Exits Meet or Exceed Financial Performance Expectations

Latest "Alpha in Impact" report explores how an impact investment approach can generate alpha for investors; highlights growing suite of impact-specific legal tools used during exit NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ICM Institute, a nonprofit research arm of the Impact Capital Managers (ICM), a membership association of leading private capital funds, together with leading global law firm Morrison Foerster, today published a new report, "Strengthening Outcomes: Impact and Financial Value at Exit," that shows almost two-thirds (65%) of impact exits meet or exceed financial performance expectations. The first-of-its-kind study draws on a sample size of 230 exits from ICM members, each of which manages a market-rate impact fund and is therefore uniquely positioned to provide data and insights into the success of impact exits and the key drivers of that success. This report is the second in a series that explores different aspects of impact investing and how an impact-focused approach can generate alpha for investors. The first "Alpha in Impact" report, published in December 2018, showed that a social and environmental focus on investment management can boost financial returns and proposed 10 unique drivers of "impact alpha," defined as impact objectives that can enhance or add financial value for fund managers, investors, and the firms in which they invest. ICM also published a related report with Morrison Foerster in April 2021 that focused on "Legal Innovation in Impact Investing" and explored the variety of legal tools and processes used by private capital investors to protect and enhance investments. The continued growth in impact investing has led to a parallel increase in exits by impact investors. As of 2022, private markets investors managed US$322.2 billion in impact investments, a growing portion of which is nearing a potential exit as more impact funds reach maturity. Many general partners (GPs) have made impact commitments to their limited partners (LPs), whether in their main fund documents or in side letters with impact-focused LPs. The need to comply with such mandates, achieve impact goals, and protect the mission orientation of companies has led to increased attention to the structuring of exit events. Key Findings ICM Institute analyzed 230 exits and found that 42% outperformed financial expectations, 23% were "at target," and 35% underperformed. The figures are similar when it comes to impact performance, with 42% outperforming impact expectations, 39% "at target," and 19% underperforming. More than half (57%) of these exits resulted in a sale to a strategic buyer such as a corporation, followed by a financial buyer (23%). Ten percent of exits analyzed were categorized as liquidations, and IPOs accounted for eight percent of exits. A remaining three percent of exit types were categorized as "other." Investors' impact goals were met or exceeded in 81% of exits, reflecting a slightly higher level of performance in impact as compared to financial performance. In case study interviews, respondents described the importance and preference for mission-aligned, strategic buyers to ensure that the company's impact and mission were protected after exit. The report also includes 11 deep-dive case studies featuring specific ICM member portfolio companies, three of which focus on how instituting employee ownership structures can drive both financial returns and impact. Members whose impact exits were featured in the report include: TPG's The Rise Fund, HCAP Partners, SJF Ventures, Achieve Partners, Energy & Environment Investment, Pangaea Ventures, New Markets Venture Partners, Lime Rock New Energy, KKR, and St. Cloud Capital. Marieke Spence, Executive Director of ICM, commented: "The findings of this study put private capital impact investing on a competitive footing with traditional, non-impact approaches. They suggest that thematic investing may not necessitate a tradeoff with financial return, and that in some cases, investing with an impact lens may in fact be a competitive advantage. While every impact exit will have distinct features, this report adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating that alpha can be found in impact." Susan Mac Cormac, corporate partner at Morison Foerster and co-chair of the firm's ESG, Social Enterprise and Impact Investing, and Energy practices, said: "Impact investors and all market participants should be encouraged by these findings. Our study shows that it is certainly possible to structure an exit event that not only achieves an investor's impact goals but meets or exceeds financial expectations and avoids greenwashing. As exits involving impact investing have become more prevalent, the sophistication of effective legal tools to protect impact at exit has evolved as well. Impact investing in the private markets can and should result in positive outcomes, both for the investor and for society at large."



Mark Berryman, Managing Director of Impact Investments at Caprock, added: "As an impact investor, I'm thrilled to see ICM's latest Alpha in Impact report, 'Strengthening Outcomes: Impact and Financial Value at Exit.' The study provides valuable new data and context that highlight the success of impact managers generating both financial returns and positive social and environmental outcomes. With its impressive network of over 100 private capital investment fundscollectively representing over $60 billion in impact-focused, market-rate return capitalICM is uniquely positioned to analyze this data and disseminate the results. I'm confident this evidence of the network's members delivering competitive returns while driving positive impact will mobilize even more capital to impact investing." The study identified the following key drivers that influenced both financial and impact exit outcomes for ICM portfolio companies:

Competitive advantage in funding rounds . Impact firms are branded as better long-term partners with more patience around the exit process and frequently have thematic or industry-specific expertise valued by company management.

. Impact firms are branded as better long-term partners with more patience around the exit process and frequently have thematic or industry-specific expertise valued by company management. Unique impact frameworks . These frameworks guide portfolio companies toward targeted objectives and can increase the value of a company.

. These frameworks guide portfolio companies toward targeted objectives and can increase the value of a company. Scaled impact-driven business segments . Impact investors help management to focus on and scale specific business lines or activities that exhibit collinearity of impact with financial return, leading to financial growth.

. Impact investors help management to focus on and scale specific business lines or activities that exhibit collinearity of impact with financial return, leading to financial growth. Rigorous impact reporting that serves as a strategic tool during exit, by demonstrating impact as a significant component of portfolio company value.

that serves as a strategic tool during exit, by demonstrating impact as a significant component of portfolio company value. Attraction of unsolicited offers from strategic buyers interested in the historical impact-driven growth of the company and who see it as a future driver of financial success.

interested in the historical impact-driven growth of the company and who see it as a future driver of financial success. Strong management teams . Impact investors share deeper mission alignment with company leadership and, when considering exit options, tend to prioritize buyers who will value continuity of impact-driven leadership in their offer.

. Impact investors share deeper mission alignment with company leadership and, when considering exit options, tend to prioritize buyers who will value continuity of impact-driven leadership in their offer. Impact governance guidelines. Legal tools like impact-specific covenants, incorporating impact governance into the board structure, creating separate entities focused on impact measurement and reporting, or maintaining a board position post-exit, can all codify and preserve impact. The report also looked at the various legal options available to fund managers that want to optimize both impact and financial performance. Both buyers and sellers are embracing different legal provisions and tools to assist in structuring exit events, whether it is in connection with a private or public sale, IPO, or direct listing. Not only can these tools help substantiate an investor's impact goals and commitments to their LPs, they can also help investors avoid accusations of "greenwashing" by showing how impact is embedded in deal structures. These tools vary on a deal-by-deal basis, depending on factors such as investment objectives, whether an investor has a majority or minority stake in the portfolio company, whether an investor will retain a stake in the company after the exit event, and market conditions. Some "softer" protections include highlighting a company's mission in information memos and conducting reverse impact diligence on potential buyers, with the aim of identifying mission-aligned buyers. Investors have also worked with companies to adopt new corporate forms, such as the Delaware Public Benefit Corporation, which can help ensure that, even after an impact investor exits a company, the board will still be required to consider the company's mission and impact on the world. In addition, some investors have begun to include covenants in definitive transaction documents related to a company's impact, with penalty payments that can be triggered in the event the buyer breaches the impact covenants. Research Methodology and Background The research began in March 2022 via the dissemination of a survey to the full ICM membership asking them to list completed exits. The survey also included questions about the specific industries in which exits were pursued, types of exit (e.g., IPO), perceived performance of exits, and what drove that performance. Full or partial responses were collected from 30 firms, which yielded information for approximately 230 exits. General partners at the 30 firms were also invited to participate in interviews with the research team, where they were asked to share insights and lessons learned from prior impact exits, including those that underperformed. ICM Institute Fellow Divya Walia, a 2024 MBA/MIA Candidate at Columbia Business School and SIPA, was the lead author of the report. This study builds on prior research by leading industry organizations, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Cambridge Associates, Wharton Social Impact Initiative (now ESG Initiative), Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), and McKinsey & Co. About Impact Capital Managers and the ICM Institute The Impact Capital Managers mission is to accelerate the performance of its members and to scale the private capital impact investing marketplace with integrity and authenticity. The organization accomplishes this through its membership association, which includes 100+ funds representing more than $60B in impact-focused capital, and through collaborating on field-building initiatives, partnerships, and research with its affiliated organization, the ICM Institute. As part of its commitment to grow the marketplace with integrity, association members must meet certain criteria including standards on impact measurement and management. The ICM Institute is a proud organizer of the Mosaic Fellowship and with Achieve Partners, producer of the Better Money, Better World podcast. For more information visit www.impactcapitalmanagers.com . About Morrison Foerster Morrison Foerster is a leading global law firm. We are proud to develop pioneering legal innovations related to ESG for over 20 years, and offer unmatched industry-leading experience to assist social enterprises and investors that require market rate returns while preserving impact. In addition to our deep commitment to pro bono (approximately $7 million in services for climate in 2022), our clients include the strongest public and private companies as well as private equity funds, impact investors, and NGOs. We represent organizations as they grow, innovate, disrupt, and develop into leading industry players and household names. Our attorneys are at the vanguard of the ESG evolution as founding members of the Social Accountability Standards Board, and on the boards of Ceres, Business for Social Responsibility, and the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative. In 2022, Morrison Foerster was recognized with the Environment & Sustainability: Innovation Award at the Chambers Diversity & Inclusion Awards. As the sole recipient of this award, this recognition reflects our position as the preeminent ESG firm in the United States. Additionally, Morrison Foerster was recognized as one of the top 10 firms on The American Lawyer's A-List for 2021 and 2022, highlighting the firm's commitment to client service, leadership in market-changing deals and impact litigation, and values-based culture. For more information, visit www.mofo.com. Media Contact: Dmitriy Ioselevich, 17 Communications, [email protected] View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-study-by-impact-capital-managers-and-morrison-foerster-shows-almost-two-thirds-of-impact-exits-meet-or-exceed-financial-performance-expectations-301818168.html SOURCE Impact Capital Managers

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[May 08, 2023] BEAM Space Wins Valet Storage of the Year and the Technology and Innovation Award for Singapore at the Self-Storage Association Awards Asia 2023

SINGAPORE, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Beam Storage Pte Ltd, a valet storage company currently operational in both Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, announced April 12, 2023 that its BEAM Space brand was named the winner of Valet Storage of the Year (Singapore) as well as the Technology and Innovation Award (Singapore) categories. The forementioned awards recognize outstanding companies that exemplify market-leading door-to-door storage, visionary innovation, and unmatched overall storage operations. These awards are solid proof of what truly makes BEAM Space a strong brand in the industry: an innovative leader for being the first brand to utilize a mobile app solely for storage services. "We are excited to receive this prestigious recognition from our industry peers, which reaffirms our commitment to service and innovation." said Jason Giambona, CEO and Managing Director of Beam Storage Pte Ltd. "BEAM Space is constantly innovating with our processes andtechnology platform, built entirely in-house, so as to ensure the highest levels of security, convenience, and service for our customers and partners. Our transparent pricing and convenient in-app delivery booking and inventory management continue to further drive our customer-centric approach."



The award consisted of seven major categories that comprises specific requirements as well as stringent judging criteria. A prestigious panel of industry stalwarts from across the storage industry and investment community in Asia, Europe, and America were judges for the said awarding event. About BEAM Storage

BEAM Space is a valet storage company currently operational in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that offers smarter storage and is the first storage company to utilize a mobile app. BEAM Storage removes the hassle and extra transportation in the equation by providing a technology-based system and top-level customer service. About Self Storage Association Asia The Self Storage Association Asia (SSAA) is an Asia wide association for owners of Self Storage facilities, potential investors and owners, and suppliers to the industry. The SSAA ensures that you belong to the most knowledgeable, influential, and up to date professional working group in the fast growing self storage industry to help your operations succeed in your local market and beyond. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/beam-space-wins-valet-storage-of-the-year-and-the-technology-and-innovation-award-for-singapore-at-the-self-storage-association-awards-asia-2023-301817993.html SOURCE BEAM Storage

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Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang will visit Europe this week, Beijing said Monday, as China pushes to act as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict.

Qin will hold meetings with counterparts from Germany, France and Norway from Monday to Friday, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said, without giving further details of his itinerary.

"At the invitation of German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna and Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt, state councillor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang will visit Germany, France and Norway from 8 to 12 May," Wang said.

The trip comes two weeks after China insisted it respects the sovereignty of all former Soviet countries, following comments by its ambassador to France that drew anger in Europe and threw into question Beijing's efforts to position itself as neutral in the Ukraine war.

Ambassador Lu Shaye said countries that emerged after the fall of the Soviet Union "don't have effective status under international law because there is not an international agreement confirming their status as sovereign nations".

His comments to French broadcaster LCI appeared to be referring not just to Ukraine, which Russia invaded in February 2022, but to all former Soviet republics that emerged as independent nations after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the explanation from Beijing had "duly clarified" the issue and that China was not calling into question the sovereignty of ex-Soviet states.

Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky by phone shortly after the furore over Lu's comments, the first call between the two leaders since Russia's invasion.

The nearly one-hour discussion, which reportedly included Xi advocating for peace negotiations, was met by Russian accusations that Ukraine was undermining efforts to end the fighting.

A 12-point "position paper" published by China in February was seen by many Western governments as skewed towards Russia, and a friendly Moscow visit in March by Xi to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin led to widespread criticism.

Beijing says it is neutral in the Ukraine conflict. Xi has never condemned the Russian invasion but the Chinese leader has come under increased pressure from Western nations to step in.

Baerbock, on a visit to Beijing last month, urged China to ask "the Russian aggressor to stop the war" in Ukraine and said "no other country has more influence on Russia".

She also said she had expressed concerns about human rights issues and warned of the dangers of escalating tensions with Taiwan.

Her visit to the Chinese capital came a week after that of French President Emmanuel Macron and the head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, who also urged Beijing to play a greater role in resolving the crisis in Ukraine.

Colonna was part of a delegation accompanying Macron on the trip.

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[May 08, 2023] MEDICAL IP is Creating Medical Digital Twins in Virtual Spaces, Powered by NVIDIA Omniverse

MEDIP PRO, a real-time digital twin solution based on medical imaging, is connected to NVIDIA Omniverse

Maximize medical data scalability by sharing and simulating medical-imaging-based digital twins SEOUL, South Korea and SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MEDICAL IP, a digital twin-based medical AI solution company, announced that MEDIP PRO, a medical imaging AI analysis and digital twin implementation software, is now connected to the NVIDIA Omniverse. Among all software around the world, MEDIP PRO is the first and only case to combine medical software based on medical image with Omniverse. The Omniverse development platform is optimized for customizing 3D pipelines and simulating virtual worlds, including digital twins. Omniverse enables interoperability between 3D applications, using Universal Scene Description (USD), opening new industrial metaverse applications to customers and partners. MEDIP PRO's connection to NVIDIA Omniverse allows users to 3D-model medical images in real time in virtual spaces; and segment, edit, and design through AI, allowing the expansion of internal information of human body into a metaverse without tim and space limitations.



"Last year, we were selected as a Premier member of the NVIDIA Inception program based on our innovative technology to expand all classes of human structures into virtual spaces based on medical imagingand have been in discussion to connect our technologies with NVIDIA's " said CEO Park from MEDICAL IP. "With Omniverse, users around the world can easily leverage MEDIP PRO to expand medical digital twins into the metaverse, which will maximize the competitiveness of our products." MEDIP PRO is a software that instantly models medical image such as CT and MRI in 3D and divides organs and lesions through AI to create digital twins of all kinds of anatomical structures that constitute the human body and expand them into virtual space. It has also secured competitiveness globally by completing approvals from Korean FDA, the US FDA and European CE.

At present, MEDIP PRO is being supplied to university hospitals, medical schools, medical device companies, and others. Many of the top-tier general hospitals in US and Korea including Mayo Clinic, UCLA and Arizona State University, Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Medical Center are also utilizing it. Through its connection to Omniverse, MEDIP PRO provides various functions, including real-time digital twin sharing; premium-level 3D visualization; virtual surgery; epidemiological and blood-flow simulation; AR/VR augmentation of medical images and engineering analysis. Park Sang-Joon, CEO of MEDICAL IP, said, "MEDIP PRO is the first software developed on Omniverse to address medical data, demonstrating its leadership in the 'healthcare metaverse' industry. Just as advances in medical imaging techniques and devices have enabled mankind to acquire information about the human body that cannot be seen with the naked eye, we will lead progress and innovation in various medical areas such as surgery and treatment optimized for individual patients, drug delivery simulation, and monitoring by implementing the information contained in medical images as a digital twin and expanding it into a virtual space." Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2069033/MEDICALIP_NVIDIA_Omniverse_image.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/medical-ip-is-creating-medical-digital-twins-in-virtual-spaces-powered-by-nvidia-omniverse-301816756.html

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[May 08, 2023] InvestmentPitch Media Video Discusses New CSE Listing MindBio Therapeutics, Pioneering Clinical Studies of Micro-Dosing of Psychedelic Medicines

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MindBio Therapeutics (CSE:MBIO) is one of the latest new listings on the Canadian Securities Exchange. Based in Melbourne, Australia, MindBio Therapeutics is pioneering clinical studies into the micro-dosing of psychedelic medicines to treat a range of medical conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, chronic pain and opiate addictions.

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on the image or link below: For more information, please view the InvestmentPitch Media video which provides additional information about this news and the company. The video is available for viewing on  InvestmentPitch  and on  YouTube . If these links are not enabled, please visit www.InvestmentPitch.com and enter MindBio Therapeutics in the search box. In April 2022, the company successfully completed a Phase 1 LSD-Micro-dosing clinical trial at the Medical and Health Sciences School of Pharmacy at the University of Auckland in New Zealand to determine the effectiveness of micro-dosing LSD for treating depression. MindBio became the first company in the world to have clinical trials approved with the drug prescribed by a doctor for home use by the patient in the same manner as any other medication. The advantage of micro-dosing LSD as opposed to macro-dosing is that patients can take the drug and then get on with their day in much the same way they would when taking anti-depressant medication.



With a scientific team of 18 staff, MindBio is developing a Micro-dosing treatment protocol for at-home use and is developing a targeted treatment, formulation and digital intervention for scaling these treatments in the primary health system. Two separate Phase 2 take home LSD-Micro-dosing trials are fully funded and due to start shortly for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, commonly known as depression, and late-stage cancer patients experiencing existential distress.

Justin Hanka, CEO, stated: We are changing the course of mental health treatments and believe that micro-dosing of psychedelic medicines combined with our proprietary treatment protocols will be a game changer for the treatment of depression and related mental health conditions at scale in the primary health care system. We expect to make a number of strategic announcements over the coming months including much anticipated positive read outs from our Phase 1 LSD-Micro-dosing trial and progress of our two upcoming Phase 2 trials. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 300 million people worldwide experience depression. In the United States alone, 3.1 million people between the age of 12 and 17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year, with suicide the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 34. The company has investor support from Negev Capital, a world leading institutional fund focusing on psychedelic medicines, along with Shape Capital, Advisir Ventures and the Hardenbrook Group. For more information, please visit the companys website www.MindBioTherapeutics.com, contact Justin Hanka, CEO, at 61 4331 40886 or by email at [email protected] . About InvestmentPitch Media InvestmentPitch Media leverages the power of video, which together with its extensive distribution, positions a companys story ahead of the 1,000's of companies seeking awareness and funding from the financial community. The company specializes in producing short videos based on significant news releases, research reports and other content of interest to investors. Disclaimer The information in this Investmentpitch Media Ltd video is for the viewers information only. MindBio Therapeutics has paid a fee not exceeding $2,000 in cash to have its current news release produced in video format. The corporate information is based on information that is publicly available. Any information provided by Investmentpitch Media Ltd., through its media services is not to be construed as a recommendation or suggestion or offer to buy or sell securities but is provided solely as an informational media service. Investmentpitch Media Ltd makes no warranties or undertakings as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. All due diligence should be done by the viewer or their financial advisor. Investing in securities is speculative and carries risk. CONTACT:

InvestmentPitch Media

Barry Morgan, CFO

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[May 08, 2023] Spectrum Solutions Secures Summary Judgment Win

On May 2, 2023, Spectrum Solutions secured a summary judgment win in a patent infringement suit regarding Spectrum's groundbreaking whole saliva collection device. Spectrum's SDNA device became the first product granted Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration for the collection of samples for RT-PCR Covid testing. Soon afterwards, DNA Genotek-a wholly-owned subsidiary of Orasure Tehnologies, Inc.-accused Spectrum of infringing two U.S. patents with its saliva collection kits. In today's decision, Judge Robert S. Huie of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California issued an order granting Spectrums' motion for summary judgment of non-infringement of the two patents-in-suit. The decision resolves in Spectrum's favor all of the claims that DNA Genotek brought against Spectrum and its product in the case, leaving only Spectrum's claims against DNA Genotek for inequitable conduct, alleging that one of the asserted patents was procured through fraud before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office and that DNA Genotek violated the antitrust laws by suing Spectrum on a fraudulently-obtained patent. Commenting on the decision, Stephen Fanning, Spectrum's CEO, said: "We fel vindicated by the Court's decision. Now that Spectrum has successfully defeated all of DNA Genotek's claims, Spectrum can focus on its business without the specter of meritless infringement claims over our innovative technology." Mr. Fanning also added that "Spectrum will continue to vigorously pursue its fraud and antitrust claims against DNA Genotek to seek treble damages and fees for DNA Genotek's alleged anticompetitive conduct."



Spectrum was represented in the matter by a team of attorneys at Knobbe Martens led by Ali Razai. About Spectrum Solutions

Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, Spectrum Solutions is a healthcare solutions partner striving to bridge the gap between the science and real medical solutions. Our laboratory products and services, clinical testing, and onsite compounding pharmacy are driving decentralized testing, accelerating multi-omic scientific applications, modernizing direct-to-consumer wellness, and delivering innovation with the practical power to impact and change outcomes. About Knobbe Martens Knobbe Martens is a highly respected intellectual property law firm, offering legal services in all aspects of intellectual property and technology law. The firm's litigation group handles cases throughout the U.S. and coordinates strategy for disputes worldwide. Founded in California in 1962, the firm has about 300 lawyers and scientists based in offices located in Orange County, Los Angeles, New York, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington D.C. Knobbe Martens serves a diverse international client base, from multinational corporations to emerging businesses of all stages. More information about the firm can be found at www.knobbe.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005340/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Alliant Insurance Services Acquires McAnally Wilkins, Expands Oil & Gas Insurance Expertise

Alliant Insurance Services has acquired McAnally Wilkins, LLC, a leading provider of property and casualty (P&C) insurance solutions for the oil and gas service industry. Based in the Southwest U.S., McAnally Wilkins provides insurance and risk management expertise as well as comprehensive employee benefits programs for businesses focused in oilfield service and oil transportation. "McAnally Wilkins is recognized among the leading risk management experts in oilfield services. Its expertise in this space aligns with our model of industry specialization at Alliant and will enhance the unparalleled value we offer to clients in our Alliant Energy & Marine practice," said Tom Corbett, Chairman and CEO of Alliant. Headquartered in Odessa, TX, McAnally Wilkins offers a broad range of insurance programs to meet the complex needs ofoil and gas businesses and contractors. McAnally Wilkins understands the unique risk exposures impacting the oil and gas service industry and delivers customized insurance programs from leading insurers that help reduce risk.



"For over a decade, we have successfully leveraged our oil and gas expertise and our partnerships with insurance carriers to develop cost-effective risk management and loss control solutions for businesses in the oil and gas service sector," said John Wilkins, Jr., President of MWI and Co-Founder along with Blaine McAnally. "We look forward to expanding our resources and reach through the partnership with Alliant and its existing team of oil and gas specialists." McAnally Wilkins will continue to service clients from its Texas and Oklahoma-based office locations.

About Alliant Insurance Services Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nation's leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. We operate through a network of specialized national platforms and local offices to offer our clients a comprehensive portfolio of solutions built on innovative thinking and personal service. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Alliant is meeting this complexity head-on, not with more layers of management, but with more creativity and agility. Alliant is changing the way our clients approach risk management and benefits, so they can capitalize on new opportunities to grow and protect their organizations. Visit us at alliant.com. #TheMoreRewardingWay View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005159/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Jewel360 Teams Up With Jewelers Mutual Group to Offer Care Plans and Insurance Quotes at the Point of Sale

Integration with Jewelers Mutual's Zing  platform drives additional revenue, builds customer loyalty and peace of mind PROVO, Utah, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jewel360, the first all-in-one, cloud-based retail software dedicated exclusively to the needs of modern jewelry retailers, announced today that it is working together with Jewelers Mutual Group to enable jewelry retailers to offer care plans and facilitate the submission of items descriptions for insurance quotes directly from Jewelers Mutual through the Jewel360 POS at the time of purchase, through an integration with the Zingby Jewelers Mutual Group platform. The integration empowers jewelry retailers with new service offerings that drive revenue, build customer loyalty, and ensure peace of mind for customers with a seamless experience to insure their new jewelry purchase. Jewel360 is a true end-to-end retail software solution that supports retail jewelry business operations with real-time visibility and control over in-store and online sales, inventory, repairs, customer communications and marketing. With industry-specific features that elevate their cpabilities in comparison to other POS systems, Jewel360's cloud-based solution and industry integrations enable retailers to be on the leading edge.



"The Zing platform empowers jewelers to make faster, smarter business decisions, and helps them create a seamless customer experience," said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at Jewelers Mutual Group. "Jewel360 was created specifically for the jewelry industry to meet the unique needs of jewelry retailers and their customers. Integration with our Zing platform is a perfect fit for Jewel360's all-in-one POS platform. We look forward to working with the Jewel360 team to help them grow their customers' jewelry businesses." "Modern jewelry stores have to be just as accessible and customer-centric online as they are in-store, with insight into their business operations 24/7/365," said Nick Gurney, General Manager, Jewel360. "As the leading all-in-one cloud-based POS created specifically for jewelry retail, we help jewelry retailers manage every part of their business from anywhere, so they can focus on their customers' needs. The integration with the Jewelers Mutual Zing platform further enhances the Jewel360 platform with valuable features that differentiate it from other POS systems and create new revenue streams for our customers."

About Jewel360

Jewel360 is an all-in-one, cloud-based retail software built to meet the needs of modern jewelry retailers. The integrated POS solution combines the simplicity and flexibility of a cloud-based solution with comprehensive functionality including end-to-end visibility and control over in-store and online sales, inventory, repairs, customer communications and marketing. Jewel360 combines decades of experience with a proven, modern retail technology platform to deliver a seamless experience for both the jewelry retailer and their customers. For more information, visit Jewel360.com. About Jewelers Mutual Group

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Consumers put their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their personal jewelry and the special moments it represents. The Group insurers' strong financial position is reflected in their 36 consecutive ratings of "A+ Superior" from AM Best Company, as of November 2022. Today, Jewelers Mutual Group continues to raise the tide of the industry by listening to what jewelers need and offering products and services that meet those needs. A suite of powerful solutions is offered that enables businesses to streamline and grow, run secure and successful operations, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers are Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, SI (a stock insurer) and JM Specialty Insurance Company. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. The Jewelers Mutual home office is in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com. Media Contact:

Lindsay Hull

[email protected]

Zer0 to 5ive for Jewel360 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jewel360-teams-up-with-jewelers-mutual-group-to-offer-care-plans-and-insurance-quotes-at-the-point-of-sale-301817388.html SOURCE Jewel360

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[May 08, 2023] Freename partners with Ethermail, leading Web3 Email Provider

Zurich, Switzerland, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freename is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Ethermail , leading Web3 Email Provider.



Thanks to this partnership, users can now use Freename domains to send and receive web3 and web2 emails on Ethermail, the first email solution setting the standard for anonymous and encrypted wallet-to-wallet communication and P2P communication. This integration benefits more than 100,000 already active users in total on the Ethermail and Freename platforms. The use of Web3 email overcomes some of the limitations of traditional email, including phishing attacks, spamming by marketers, and lack of anonymity Of course, web2 email is still the most widely used product today with over 4 billion registered mailboxes, which is why Ethermail offers the possibility of using Freename domains to send messages to traditional email as well. This is an important connection between the web3 and the web2 worlds that facilitates both early adopters of this new technology - coming from the traditional world - and those who have been using it for a longer time.



How do domains work with web3 emails? The functioning of domains with web3 emails is conceptually simple. First, the domain is connected to a wallet (on Freename), which in turn is connected to a web3 email account (on Ethermail). Therefore, when you send an email from one domain to another, it is actually the two wallets associated with the domains that communicate. This process, referred to as wallet-to-wallet communication, has the important advantage of being anchored on the blockchain: as a result, each message has both the guarantee of anonymity and the security of being printed on the blockchain (in the form of a smart contract) forever. That said, Ethermail and Freename members must own a domain to use email, which can be purchased on Freename, and associate it with a wallet. This functionality is made possible in one click within Freename's domain management panel. Davide Vicini said, "Integration with Ethermail is a big step for both the web3 and web2 worlds, bringing as many users as possible to fast and easy communication via web3 domains."

Shant Kevonian, CEO of Ethermail: "We are happy to welcome Freename to our platform and excited to integrate their domains into our web3 email solution. This partnership enables us to offer our users the possibility to communicate with easy to memorize aliases while still benefiting from the advantages of web3 email, such as enhanced security, privacy, and anonymity. By combining our expertise and resources, we can bring the benefits of blockchain-based communication to a wider audience, and we are looking forward to exploring more opportunities for collaboration in the future."



Ethermail Media Details Schaan, Liechtenstein Shant Kevonian marketing-at-ethersuite.io Mattia Martone Freename press-at-freename.io

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[May 08, 2023] CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel Honors Two Logically VPs

MJ Patent and Cara Parfitt of Logically Recognized on CRN's Annual List DUBLIN, Ohio, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Logically, one of the nation's leading managed security and IT service providers, announced today that CRN , a brand of The Channel Company , has named MJ Patent, Vice President of Marketing, and Cara Parfitt, Vice President of Tech Alliances, to the Women of the Channel list for 2023. Each year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry. The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence. Since joining Logically in 2022 as Vice President of Marketing, MJ Patent has leveraged her industry go-to-market expertise to help Logically burgeon as a top-tier managed security and IT service provider brand, while also achieving sustainable and scalable revenue growth. Cara Parfitt has successfully supported Logically through the company's rapid growth phase as Vice President of Tech Alliances, working extensively with the sales organizations to create a renewed focus on mutually-beneficial partnerships that serve customers best. This focus has produced stronger margins, incrased pipeline, and better partnership ROI for all parties.



"Both MJ and Cara have made invaluable contributions to our company's growth and success, and we're thrilled to see them honored for their hard work and dedication on CRN's prestigious annual list," said Logically CEO, Joshua Skeens. "By leveraging the expertise of channel veterans, Logically has become a more effective solution provider, as well as a stronger partner within the broader channel ecosystem. We look forward to continuing to bring in top talent and fostering prime opportunities for female leaders to grow within the organization." "We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC . About Logically Logically is a leading national managed security and IT solution provider that helps organizations secure and support their businesses today, solve for tomorrow, and strategize for the future with cyber-first solutions. Our team of experts, including cybersecurity, engineering, networking, and cloud specialists, collaborate with customers to implement solutions that protect their assets, reduce risk, and optimize performance, end to end. Since 1999, we have made long-term relationships, customer service excellence, and purposeful innovation guiding principles to ensure customers have a trusted advisor at their side, helping them focus on their business, not the technology behind it. To learn more about Logically, visit: https://logically.com/ or follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/logicallymsp/ About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/crns-2023-women-of-the-channel-honors-two-logically-vps-301817399.html SOURCE Logically

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[May 08, 2023] Summit Park Announces Sale of Parkline

Summit Park is pleased to announce the sale of its portfolio company, Parkline, Inc. (the "Company"), to Trachte, LLC, a portfolio company of Palladium Equity Partners. Headquartered in Eleanor, West Virginia, Parkline is a leading manufacturer of custom engineered modular metal building solutions with mission critical applications across diverse end markets. Formed as an independent company in 1973, Parkline produces buildings, enclosures and turnkey, integrated systems for control, distribution, monitoring and optimization applications in the energy, utility, industrial and infrastructure markets. The Company is well known as a leader in the metal building industry with more than 70,000 structures in service throughout the United States and Canada. During Summit Park's ownership period, Parkline broadened its capabilities and successfully expanded into new geographies and end markets. The Company grew its manufacturing capacity and capabilities through its acquisition of Bebco Industries, a complementary business with deep experience in heavy-gauge metal buildings for applications across the industrial, chemical and energy end markets. Bob Calton, co-Managing Partner at Summit Park, said, "We have enjoyed our longstanding partnership with Parkline and are proud of the evolution and expansion of the business over the time of our investment. Bill Estep and the entire Parkline team have done a great job executing the strategic vision of the Company, resulting in significant growth and a reputation as a trusted industry leader. Summit Park looks forward to following Parkline's future success." Bill Estep, CEO of Parkline, added, "Throughout Summit Park's ownership, we made significant investments in our business and team to expand our service offerings and pursue new opportunities. We have thoroughly enjoyed our partnership with Summit Park and are excited for our next chapter of growth as a part of Trachte." The transaction marks Summit Park's third exit from its first fund, Summit Park I-A. Livingstone Partners served as financial advisor and McGuireWoods LLP acted as legal advisor to Parkline and Summit Park in connection with this transaction. About Parkline Parkline is a leading manufacturer of higly engineered metal buildings for industrial and commercial applications. Its product portfolio consists of material only, site-erected, pre-erected, and integrated control buildings. The Company operates two strategically located manufacturing facilities in West Virginia and Texas that support customer needs throughout the U.S. Product flexibility is a key differentiator for Parkline, and the company's design and engineering team is capable of customizing floor plans to meet almost any customer specification or requirement. Parkline is headquartered in Eleanor, West Virginia. For more information, visit parkline.com.



About Summit Park Summit Park is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based private investment firm focused exclusively on the lower middle market. The firm invests across a range of industries, including services, consumer, and industrial growth. The Firm has made over 40 investments in the lower middle market totaling more than $2 billion in total enterprise value. The firm's capital can be used to facilitate a change in ownership, to support expansion and growth, to provide partial liquidity to existing owners, or to support an industry consolidation plan. For more information, visit www.summitparkllc.com.

About Trachte Trachte is a leading provider of easy-deployment application-engineered protection and control buildings. Founded in 1919, the company has unparalleled experience in prefabricated structures that provide state-of-the-art environments and protection for its customers' investments in critical equipment and systems such as switchgear, battery systems, servers, and data center hardware that control and protect electrical infrastructure and equipment. Trachte's success is based on continuous technological advancement, quality improvement and mutually beneficial relationships and strategic partnerships with end users, consulting engineers, contractors, OEMs and value-added resellers. Additional information may be found at www.trachteusa.com. About Palladium Equity Partners, LLC Palladium is the oldest minority-owned private equity buyout firm in the industry with $3 billion of assets under management. The firm seeks to acquire and grow companies in partnership with founders and experienced management teams by providing capital, strategic guidance and operational oversight. Since its founding in 1997, Palladium has invested over $3 billion of capital in 38 platform investments and 157 add-on acquisitions, realizing 23 of these platform investments. The firm focuses primarily on buyout investments targeting $50 million to $150 million in equity. The principals of the firm have meaningful experience in consumer, services, industrials, and healthcare businesses, with a special focus on companies they believe will benefit from the growth in the U.S. Hispanic population. Palladium, which is a Certified B Corp, is based in New York City. For more information, visit www.palladiumequity.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005109/en/

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[May 08, 2023] ROC.ai Launches Pilot for Safer Schools in West Virginia

MORGANTOWN, W. Va., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rank One Computing (ROC.ai) is proud to formally announce the launch of our Safer Schools Initiative, a pilot program designed to enhance proactive security capabilities in one of our nation's most vulnerable spaces  our schools. This critical initiative will improve safety for students, teachers, and staff  first in West Virginia public schools, then across the country and around the world. ROC.ai teams have been working closely with more than 50 schools in four West Virginia districts on the initial rollout of our live video analytics platform into existing school-based camera systems. Now live and in action, ROC Watch enables school administrators to automatically: approve visitors before they enter the premises

detect incidents or intruders

configure smart alerts for any device

count or locate missing children during an incident During this pilot phase, we are working closely with our school-based and community partners in West Virginia to optimize our technology and meet our undeniably high standards of accuracy, speed, and precision. ROC Watch will be used to identify visitors and help administrators manage building access before guests enter the front office. Through a quick, simple mobile enrollment process, staff and visitors set up a profile within a virtual badgeless visitor management system stored locally with each school. Last month, ROC Watch became operational at West Fairmont Middle School and Marion County School District. This month, Taylor, Doddridge, and Putnam counties' schools will follow. This process includes software installation to augment existing security camera systems. The Safer Schools Initiative pilot program's initial rollout was a success. ROC.ai is proud to pioneer proactive technology solutions that address significant national challenges. "We are thrilled to be working with schools in West Virginia to pilot this important innovation. School safety is a top priority for us. We are dedicated to creating cutting-edge solutions that will help build a safer future for children and educators everywhere," said ROC.ai CEO Scott Swann. ROC.ai develops unique algorithms that recognize approed and unapproved visitors, manage vehicle access, visually identify long guns, and automatically trigger emergency protocols when threats are detected. We also offer 'faceless' solutions like fingerprint scanning. These automated technologies enhance safety by extending security perimeters around buildings.



Our Safer Schools Initiative moves in lock-step with the West Virginia Governor's statewide WV School Safety Initiative to improve safety and security measures before, during, and after a potential incident. Some real-life applications of ROC Watch include:

Detection and Prevention

Local law enforcement and school administrators can collaborate on proactive watchlists of prohibited individuals, like discharged employees or expelled students. ROC Watch can automatically restrict access or send alerts to a designated authority. Crisis Response

ROC Watch can detect a long-gun near a building entrance, automatically restrict access and alert authorities. ROC Watch can also alert if an unapproved visitor is attempting to pick up a child from school, so security or staff can intervene. Post-Crisis Response

During an evacuation, ROC Watch can quickly count children to ensure no one is missing. ROC Watch can identify a missing student's current location with or without a face in view, or trace an individual's movement across multiple camera streams. "We are especially grateful for the early support our pilot initiative has received here in West Virginia. Thank you to Marion County School District Superintendent Donna Heston, Ed.D., as Marion County Schools were the first to sign on as early adopters followed by Taylor County (Superintendent Christy Miller), Doddridge County (Superintendent Adam Cheeseman), and Putnam County (Superintendent John Hudson). ROC also appreciates our US Senators Joe Manchin III, Shelley Moore-Capito, West Virginia Department of Homeland Security, WV State Police, WV Fusion Center, WV Department of Corrections, and the West Virginia State Board of Education for their support, as we gift West Virginia schools with these enhanced security capabilities," shared ROC.ai VP of Congressional Affairs & Community Outreach Jessica Sell. The Safer Schools Initiative is currently accepting applications from West Virginia school districts interested in collaborating on a smarter, safer future for our students and educators. School district administrators outside of West Virginia may join our waitlist for updates on future expansions of our Safer Schools Initiative at roc.ai/schools For partnership opportunities and all other inquiries, please reach out to [email protected] About Rank One Computing:

Founded in 2015 to build faster, more accurate, and reliable computer vision and biometric algorithms, Rank One Computing continuously raises the bar on American-made, ethically-developed technology solutions. ROC protects millions around the world every day with their industry-leading multimodal software development kit, which powers 3rd-party applications for fraud prevention, commercial security, and criminal investigations, as well as their own growing suite of full-stack video security and live analytics tools. In 2022 Rank One Computing opened its east coast center of excellence in Morgantown, WV staffed by executives, managers, and engineers  all native West Virginians. Media Contact:

Jessica Sell, Vice President of Congressional Affairs & Community Outreach

949-874-2347

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rocai-launches-pilot-for-safer-schools-in-west-virginia-301817578.html SOURCE Rank One Computing

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[May 08, 2023] Fibocom Launches 5G Smart Module SC151, Powering up 5G Connectivity for AIoT Industry

Fibocom launches the 5G smart module SC151 with a comprehensive capability to empower the AIoT industry. Powered by the Qualcomm QCM4490 Processor, the module offers elevated 5G cellular and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for AIoT terminals, further boosting the commercialization of 5G AIoT applications. SHENZHEN, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fibocom, a global leading provider of IoT (Internet of Things) wireless solutions and wireless communication modules, announces the global launch of 5G smart module SC151 to enhance AI-based applications with premium 5G and Wi-Fi 6E experience and high-performance processing capability. Based on the Qualcomm QCM4490 Processor, Fibocom SC151 can be used in a wide range of 5G AIoT scenarios in the global market, it is an ideal wireless solution for terminals such as industrial handhelds, point-of-sale devices, body-worn cameras, PoC (push to talk over cellular), etc. Compliant with 3GPP Release 16 standard, Fibocom SC151 adopts a high-performance octa-core processor that allows applications to run smoothly, integrates a high-performance graphics engine to allow smooth video playing and multi-channel camera input. In addition to select AI capabilities, Fibocom SC151 extends its 5G connectivity by supporting DL 4x4 MIMO as well as UL 2x2 MIMO, roaming under both 5G SA and NSA network architectures, allowing backward compatability with 4G/3G bands. SC151 also extends its advancements by supporting 2.4G+5G WLAN and Wi-Fi 6E, plus DBS (Dual Band Simultaneous) to increase the overall capacity and performance. Benefitting from the Qualcomm QCM4490 processor and its 3GPP release 16 capabilities that enable international carrier support, there are five variants of SC151 moule series to support regional frequency bands in EMEA, Americas, APAC, etc.



The module also supports multi-constellation GNSS (GPS(L1+L5 Dual Frequency Bands)/GLONASS/BeiDou), which significantly improves position accuracy in mobile scenarios while greatly simplifying product design. SC151 is equipped with Android 13 operating system in preparation for subsequent OS upgrades in the future. With a rich set of interfaces including MIPI/ USB/ UART/ SPI/ I2C, etc., enabling flexibility and ease of integration to meet various application demands of the AIoT industry. "The convergence of AI and 5G technology has impacted many aspects of the IoT industry, the use of AI compute for decision-making in IoT and data analytics will be crucial for efficient and effective industrial solutions," said Eden Chen, General Manager of MC Product Line, Fibocom. "Fibocom 5G smart module SC151 is the ideal wireless solution for customers to develop and extend next generation high performance applications with premium 5G and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and AI capability. With the long lifespan of SC151, we are looking forward to achieving great success across the global AIoT market."

"AI is an extremely important part of the IoT landscape, with the SC151 powered by the Qualcomm QCM4490 Processor, technology will become even more advanced for enterprises across the globe," said Dev Singh, Vice President, Business Development and Head of Building, Enterprise, and Industrial Automation, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Qualcomm Technologies is proud to collaborate with Fibocom to enable them to create such an innovative product for a diverse range of applications, especially as the AIoT landscape continues to evolve." The engineering sample of SC151 will be available starting Q2 2023. About Fibocom Fibocom is a leading global provider of wireless communication modules and solutions in the sector of IoT (Internet of Things), as well as the first stock-listed (Stock Code:300638) wireless module provider in China. We provide end-to-end IoT wireless communication solutions for telecom operators, IoT equipment manufacturers, and IoT system integrators. With over two decades' engagement in M2M and IoT communication technology and extensive expertise, we are capable of independently developing high-performance wireless communication modules including 5G, LTE/LTE-A, NB-IoT/LTE-M, Android Smart, Automotive, WCDMA/HSPA(+), GSM/GPRS, Wi-Fi, GNSS, etc. Besides reliable, convenient, safe and intelligent IoT communication solutions for almost all vertical industries, we are also geared to customize the best and optimal IoT modules and solutions catering to your special requirements. Qualcomm is trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm patented technologies are licensed by Qualcomm Incorporated. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fibocom-launches-5g-smart-module-sc151-powering-up-5g-connectivity-for-aiot-industry-301818089.html SOURCE Fibocom Wireless Inc.

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AIDS Bhedbhav Virodhi Andolan

Press Release

Same-sex Marriage Pleas in the Supreme Court of India: LGBTQIA Community at the Crossroads

The ongoing hearings on same-sex marriage petitions have resulted in a minor concession being offered to the LGBTQIA community by way of welfarist steps. A government committee would be constituted to address the issues which could at best benefit a small section of the LGBTQIA community.

Meanwhile the Supreme Court has indicated clearly that Parliament alone can legislate on the right to same-sex marriage. Therefore a national-level consultation process of LGBTQIA community and their allies for decades is urgently called for. A few petitioners cannot represent the entire LGBTQIA community  reportedly between 80 to 100 million.

The Court having opened its mind on not granting same-sex marriage right, there is a greater need now to build a powerful movement and occupy Parliament Street, New Delhi to ensure the Gay Manifesto to be debated and conceded by lawmakers in the Parliament. Sacrifices will have to be made in a long drawn-out struggle.

The Court is likely to pronounce its judgement after the summer vacation break sometime in July 2023. If these 5 judges of the constitution bench declare in their judgement that Parliament alone can legislate on same-sex marriage, it will create a problem for future generations (again the section which opts for the judicial route rather than Parliament for their liberation) who will then have to ensure a larger bench of more than 5 judges to reverse the judgement awaited in the present case. A Herculean task indeed!

In such a scenario withdrawing cases from the court is a tactical retreat dictated by ones conscience and wisdom; then at least the petitioners and their lawyers will come out with their self-respect and dignity intact and their heads held high.

AIDS Bhedbhav Virodhi Andolan Collective

http://aidsbhedbhavvirodhiandolan.blogspot.com/
Four ancient Egyptian artefacts that were illegally smuggled to Italy have found their way home. The artefacts were handed over to the Egyptian Embassy in Rome some time ago and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in Egypt received them from the foreign ministry Monday.

The repatriated artefacts include a part of a coffin lid carved in wood and decorated with rows of hieroglyphic text from the Late Period that was recovered in 2017; a ceramic vase and a part of a statuette depicting a female figure from the Graeco-Roman period recovered in 2018; and a 2.5cm tall Djed pillar recovered from Turin Museum in 2022.

Mostafa Waziry, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), said he was grateful for the fruitful collaboration between the Egyptian and Italian authorities.

"Egypt has a plan to restore its historical and archaeological heritage by combating smuggling endeavours and through agreements against the illegal transfer of artefacts," explained Shaaban Abdel-Gawad, Supervisor of the Antiquities Repatriation Department at the SCA.

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[May 08, 2023] Scala Data Centers participates in two panels at International Telecoms Week 2023

The company is also a Sustainability Partner at the event and supported the MoreTrees project to plant 6,000 trees in a region in Kenya, which aims to preserve the environment and strengthen the local economy SAO PAULO, Brazil, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Scala Data Centers, the leading Latin American platform of sustainable data centers in the Hyperscale market, will participate in the 16th International Telecoms Week (ITW) 2023, which will be held from May 14th to 17th, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland (US). The company is a Sustainability Partner of the event, which is the world's largest gathering of global executives from across the telecoms and Digital Infrastructure ecosystem, and it will have executives participating in two panels throughout the agenda. On May 16th, Agostinho Villela, Vice-President of Engineering and CTO at Scala, will be on the panel "Keeping the lights on  How are data centre providers planning for power uncertainty?", in which he will talk about the unique approach of the company to constantly increase energy efficiency. On May 17th, Thiago Pongelupe, Pre-Sales and Product Director at the company, will speak on the theme "FastDeploy: How to grow fast and sustainable" at the ITW innovation stage. As a Sustainability Partner of ITW 2023, Scala has also supported the MoreTrees Project, developed by UK leading vertically-integrated, global e-commerce technology group and brand owner THG, with the aim of making it easier for individuals, businesses, and their customers to go "greener" and encourage the protection of the environment. In this initiative, 6,000 trees were planted in the region situated along the greater Milihoi channel, in Kenya, which will result in the sequestration of around 1,800 tonnes of CO2, equivalent to the emission of 4,397,400 miles in a standard car. The project has already planted more than 1 million trees in an area of 1,159 hectares of mangrove forest in the region and is essential for its environmental preservation, guaranteeing adequate conditions for the diversity of marine life and birds and reducing soil erosion in the local. The initiative is also very important for the region's economy and community because the increased forest density is providing storm surg protection for its residents and the availability of wood that is widely exported for use in the tanning industry and raw building material, in addition to being used to make dhows (traditional sailing vessels). The project also counts on the engagement of the local community, as it created 22 working days for an average of 19 local employees per month.



Scala participates in ITW 2023 to share its experience and pioneering approach in implementing sustainable data centers in Latin America since its founding in 2020, based on a robust ESG agenda. Scala has environmental, social and governance sustainability initiatives. Among them: supplying its sites exclusively with renewable energy; permanent search for solutions to obtain maximum efficiency in water and power consumption, with an average Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) below 1.40, the lowest in Latin America; support for the higher education of future data center engineers who live in sites' surrounding communities; and compliance with strict sustainability requirements from investors such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Agenda:

International Telecoms Week 2023 When: from May 14th to 17th Opening hours: from 6 pm to 8pm (May 14); from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (May 15); from 9 am to 5 pm (May 16); and from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (May 17) Where: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center  National Harbor, Maryland (US) More information about the event: https://event.internationaltelecomsweek.com/event/106d28e1-c9ae-41ee-a1ed-a6e26e7a50cb/summary ITW 2023 events featuring Scala Data Centers: Keynote Panel "Keeping the lights on  How are data centre providers planning for power uncertainty?" When: May 16, from 9:00 am to 9:50 am (local time) Where: Stage 1 Participants: Agostinho Villela, Vice-President of Engineering and CTO of Scala Data Centers; Amar Khan, Head of Network Site Investments at Meta; Guy Willner, CEO & Co-Founder of IXAfrica Data Centers; Mayank Srivastava, CEO of BDx; Scott Hanna, Chief Revenue Officer of Cumulus Data; and Kemal Hawa, Global Head of Digital Infrastructure Practice at Greenburg Traurig (Moderator). The ITW innovation stage When: May 17, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am (local time) Where: Stage 1 Dynamics: 10-minute presentations, with different themes, made by executives representing their respective companies. Scala Participant: Thiago Pongelupe, Pre-Sales and Product Director at Scala Data Centers. Other participants: Ben Edmond, CEO of Connectbase; Jay Yass, Chief Corporate Development and Strategy Officer at Omnispace; Jose E. Puente, CEO of Reality Border; Nicole Nixon, CEO of Listing Central LLC; and Vijai Karthigesu, CEO of Swarmio Media. About Scala Data Centers Scala Data Centers is the leading Latin American platform of sustainable data centers in the Hyperscale market. Headquartered in Brazil and founded by DigitalBridge, it was developed to meet and exceed the growing demand for digital access in Latin America. Scala has a highly qualified team of over 700 professionals and applies a flexible and innovative approach to providing exceptional quality colocation services to hyperscale customers, cloud-based software and service providers, and large enterprises. We customize state-of-the-art solutions for each customer in the construction of the latest generation data centers, with high availability, the best energy efficiency rates, and superior density. All this allied to the best sustainability practices guided by our ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) program. For more information, visit www.scaladatacenters.com. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/scala-data-centers-participates-in-two-panels-at-international-telecoms-week-2023-301817584.html SOURCE Scala Data Centers

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[May 08, 2023] Consilient Inc. and Harex InfoTech Partner to Fight Financial Crime in South Korea

Companies bring generative AI-Federated Learning to the forefront to transform business processes and enable dynamic risk management WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Consilient, a fintech innovator aiming to transform financial crime compliance, announced it has partnered with Harex InfoTech, Inc. to transform the fight against financial crime in South Korea. The current technologies and methods for protecting the financial system are outdated, inefficient and largely ineffective. Through the use of federated learning (FL), a revolutionary form of artificial intelligence (AI), Consilient and Harex InfoTech will transform business processes and enable dynamic risk management to prevent financial crime in the South Korean market. During Republic of Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol's State visit to the United States, Consilient and Harex InfoTech signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on April 25, 2023, at the Korea-US Global "The Night of Global K-SMEs" held by the Korean Ministry of SMEs and Start-ups in Washington D.C. Republic of Korea President Yoon said, "President Biden and I welcomed the expansion of our firms' bilateral mutual investment and advanced technology including semiconductors, electric vehicles, and batteries. This cooperation should extend beyond semiconductors to future emerging technologies such as AI, Quantum, SMR (Small Modular Reactors) and more." The Consilient and Harex InfoTech partnership forms a US-Korean AI technology alliance that will enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Korean financial institutions in combatting financial crime. Consilient's mission to transform the detection of financial crime globally is matched by Harex InfoTech's goal of seamlessly enabling payments and commercial relationships through AI and federated learning. Consilient uses this form of AI, called federated learning (FL), to detect financial crime ore effectively and efficiently while concurrently employing a new design for the "anti-money laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT)" system. By leveraging FL, Consilient trains and optimizes machine learning models, while preserving data privacy and enabling industry-wide collaboration. This innovative network approach allows for the sharing of optimized models across or between organizations  facilitating continuous learning, discovery of unseen risk, and the evolution of AML controls and strategies  without ever moving or extracting data.



"Consilient was founded to change fundamentally how financial institutions and regulators worldwide prevent financial crime. By partnering with Harex, Consilient is poised to bring its ground-breaking FL-based solution to the South Korean market," said Juan Zarate, co-founder and chair of the board at Consilient. "Together with Harex, we will develop an innovative model for dynamic financial crime risk management in the South Korean market that is more effective, efficient, and secure and will put South Korea on the leading edge of innovation in this domain." With its partnership with Consilient, Harex InfoTech puts the user at the center of all transactions to create a user-centric platform for companies and institutions to share learning without moving the individual users' data. As a result, this protects user privacy and enhances data security by exponentially expanding companies' use of FL.

"Financial crime is a major concern facing not only the South Korean government, but also the international community," said Kyung Yang Park, founder, president and chief vision officer of Harex InfoTech. "With our joint experience and expertise in AI, our collaboration with Consilient enables South Korea to be on the cutting-edge of the deployment of this advanced technological approach to protect its financial system." Learn more about Consilient here.

Learn more about Harex InfoTech Inc. here. About Harex InfoTech, Inc.

Harex InfoTech announced the world's first mobile card payment service in Silicon Valley in 2000 and 2013 won the 'Best Technology Award' at the Innovation Project 2013 held by PYMNTS.com at Annenberg Hall on the Harvard University Campus, and is building the User-Centric Hyper-Connected Shared Network by sharing the platform with all businesses and based on the network created, is creating a user-centric new economic order that maximizes user benefits and business profits with hyper-personalized services based on User-Centric AI sharing platform. About Consilient

Founded through a partnership between K2 Integrity (www.k2integrity.com) and Giant Oak (www.giantoak.com),?Consilient is the 21st century answer for best-in-class anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance solutions. Consilient's solution is a behavioral-based, machine learning-driven utility and governance model design that enables financial institutions, payment systems, and regulators to more effectively share insights about risks and illicit actors in real time, while adhering to privacy protections and data localization restrictions and never moving data. Consilient uses federated learning, which allows financial institutions, associations, and platforms to access and interrogate data sets in different databases, institutions, and across jurisdictions to discover previously unknown but existing risks. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/consilient-inc-and-harex-infotech-partner-to-fight-financial-crime-in-south-korea-301817793.html SOURCE Consilient

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[May 08, 2023] Pinnacle Private Wealth Makes Leap to Independence with Commonwealth

Commonwealth Financial Network, a national firm dedicated to providing financial advisors with holistic, integrated business solutions, announces the addition of Pinnacle Private Wealth of Kimberly, Wisconsin, to its network of financial advisors. Formerly with Associated Investment Services, senior partners Todd Funk and Kelly Watzka-along with their team-bring with them $220 million1 in client assets. With a combined 58 years in the business, the team possesses a wealth of experience in creating goals-based financial plans for retired and preretired individuals and families. With Commonwealth's tools and support, the firm plans to expand its scope of services into retirement planning and investment management for small business owners. To learn more about Pinnacle Private Wealth, visit https://www.pinnacleprivatewi.com/. "Going independent and taking ownership of our books of business were our main goals," said Funk. "At Commonwealth, we found that aligning with another independent firm would allow us to choose our own path forward while also receiving the freedom and support we need to expand our retirement plan offering." Pinnacle joins Commonwealth as part of IEM's second division, IEM Partners, which aligns itself with financial advisors looking to go independent. IEM, a Commonwealth affiliate, is a full-service wealth management firm with $830 million in assets.



In addition to the high level of service Commonwealth provides, Pinnacle saw a strong technology suite, an expanded product offering, and the growing Strategic Retirement Solutions group as clear differentiators. "They have everything we need to run and grow our business in the way that works for us," Watzka added. "Their retirement team will help us serve more small businesses. And with the added products and robust technology, it checks off all the boxes for us. We're really excited about this new partnership."

"On behalf of Commonwealth, we're pleased to welcome Pinnacle Private Wealth to our community of independent advisors and to the successful team at IEM," said Becca Hajjar, managing principal of business development at Commonwealth. "Commonwealth's suite of products and services will add efficiencies to the firm's business while achieving a differentiated client experience. We look forward to supporting its growth as our partnership evolves." 1 As of 02/28/2023

2 As of 12/31/2022 About Commonwealth Financial Network

Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser, provides financial advisors with holistic, integrated solutions that support business evolution, growth acceleration, and operational efficiency. J.D. Power ranks Commonwealth Financial Network "#1 in Independent Advisor Satisfaction Among Financial Investment Firms, Nine Times in a Row." Privately held since 1979, the firm has headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts, and San Diego, California. Learn more about how Commonwealth partners with more than 2,100 independent financial advisors overseeing more than $242.9 billion* in assets nationwide by visiting www.commonwealth.com. Commonwealth received the highest score among independent advisors in the J.D. Power 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2018?2022 U.S. Financial Advisor Satisfaction Studies. Presented on July 6, 2022, for January to May 2022, it is based on responses from 3,039 advisors employed by or affiliated with the firms included in the study. Not indicative of the firm's future performance. Your experience may vary. Use of study results in promotional materials is subject to a license fee. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details. * As of 12/31/2022 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005156/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Bangladeshi Community Activist Zahid F Sarder Saddi Praises Secretary of State Blinken for Support of Bangladeshis

Washington, DC, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As climate change, human rights, democratic governance, and other humanitarian issues continue in Bangladesh, Zahid F Sarder Saddi , a prominent member of the Bangladeshi-American Society, has issued a statement thanking United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken for sending a clear message to Bangladesh about its foreign policy and commitment to protecting human rights, free and fair elections, freedom of religion, and the rule of law; providing resources for victims of Rohingya issues; and promoting security by helping the people of Bangladesh and other countries in the region.



Photo: Bangladeshi Community Leader and Bangladesh former Foreign Advisor Zahid F Sarder Saddi with United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken The impromptu meeting between Zahid F Sarder Saddi , who is the Foreign Advisor to the Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the Hon Begum Khaleda Zia, and United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken happened after Secretary Blinkens recent address to the US Congress. The reunion between the decades-long friends was a simple courtesy meeting but indicative and consistent with the support Secretary Blinken has provided the Bangladeshi community worldwide throughout his career. I believe that Secretary Blinken holds the Bangladeshi people as a priority in his navigation of foreign affairs. The ideals he and the Biden administration stand for are ones that we all share, and I think well see positive change in Bangladesh and the Indo-Pacific region in time, Saddi said of the Secretary. Against the backdrop of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-US relations and the approach of the countrys January 2024 elections, Secretary Blinken recently met on April 10, 2023 with Bangladesh Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen , sending clear message to Bangladesh.





U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Bangladesh Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen at the State Department in Washington, April 10, 2023.

At the bilateral meeting in Washington DC, Secretary Blinken thanked Bangladesh for hosting Rohingya refugees and spotlighted the nearly $2.1B in U.S. humanitarian assistance since 2017. However, Secretary Blinken primarily focused on the strong message that the United States is closely monitoring the developments of the January 2024 elections in Bangladesh . According to a press release from the State Department, Secretary Blinken expressed concerns about violence against and intimidation of the media and civil society, including under the Digital Security Act. He underscored that free and fair elections and respect for human rights in Bangladesh are critical as we seek to deepen our bilateral relationship.

Photo: United States Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken Addresses US Congress, Bangladesh former Foreign Advisor Zahid F Sarder Saddi seen in the picture sitting behind the Secretary of State. Image: C-SPAN Secretary Blinken also restated US commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth, free and fair elections, human and labor rights, and freedom of expression in Bangladesh and emphasized the need for fair elections and respect for human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. Secretary Blinkin is reported to have said that the world is looking to Bangladesh to set a strong example of free and fair elections for the region and beyond. I want to thank Secretary Blinken for sending a strong message to Bangladesh about the necessity of fair and inclusive elections, says Saddi. They will be crucial for the deepening of relations between our two nations and the strengthening of human rights for the Bangladeshi people. About Zahid F Sarder Saddi Zahid F Sarder Saddi is a prominent Bangladeshi politician, humanitarian, and advocate for Bangladesh and its people. He served as a Foreign Advisor to the three-time Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the Hon Begum Khaleda Zia. He was also appointed as a Special Envoy to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP and was nominated as a member of the Bangladesh Parliament Pirojpur-1 constituency. Zahid F Sarder Saddi works with several organizations and holds a special passion for helping the Bangladeshi community in the United States and around the world. He has been involved in the Bangladeshi American Society for over 25 years and works to carry the voice of Bangladeshi Americans to lawmakers. Zahid F Sarder Saddi is also a Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Bangla Times , a leading Bangladeshi English and Bangla language newspaper. Zahid F Sarder Saddi has received numerous accolades , including a humanitarian award for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic in helping to promote vaccine distribution to the Bangladeshi population. To learn more about Zahid F Sarder Saddi, please visit www.ZahidFSarderSaddi.com or reach out to Zahid F Sarder Saddi at info-at-zahidfsardersaddi.com



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[May 08, 2023] 11 Sophos Executives Named 2023 CRN Women of the Channel

OXFORD, United Kingdom, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sophos , a global leader in innovating and delivering cybersecurity as a service, today announced that CRN , a brand of The Channel Company , has named 11 Sophos executives to its 2023 Women of the Channel list. The Sophos leaders are honored for their strategic vision, leadership and unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence.

This years list spotlights women whose expertise and vision are making recognizable impact on the technology industry and driving success for their partners and customers. Sophos executives on the list include: Kendra Krause, senior vice president, global channels and sales operations

Justine Lewis, vice president, worldwide regional and channel marketing

Caralyn Stern, vice president, global channel and Americas marketing

Regina Vignone, vice president, East

Allison Clarke, senior director, global channel strategy and programs

Nicki Dewhurst, senior marketing director, Asia Pacific and Japan

Daniela Stolz, senior marketing director, Central Europe

Tara Bresnahan, director, Americas channel marketing

Christina Nairn, director, Americas regional marketing

Maria Ardila, channels and operations director, Latin America

Denise Pascual, senior marketing manager, Latin America

Krause an Stern are further honored on CRNs 2023 Women of the Channel Power 100 list of distinguished leaders. This elite list recognizes the industrys most influential women for their remarkable contributions, expertise and channel advocacy.







Todays adversaries arent slowing down. Theyre executing attacks faster than ever before, using more than 500 unique tools and techniques identified in new analysis of Sophos incident response cases, said Krause. Sophos is committed to helping channel partners protect their customers against these threats with a broad portfolio of on-demand security services  including Managed Detection and Response (MDR). Recognizing the critical importance of these services, were seeing an increasing number of partners making it a requirement that all customers deploy Sophos MDR in addition to our portfolio products. We proudly accept these recognitions on behalf of our frontline partners that are delivering urgently needed security operations services. We are ecstatic to announce this years honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what theyve accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next.

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine and online at www.CRN.com/WOTC . About Sophos

Sophos is a worldwide leader and innovator of advanced cybersecurity solutions, including Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and incident response services and a broad portfolio of endpoint, network, email, and cloud security technologies that help organizations defeat cyberattacks. As one of the largest pure-play cybersecurity providers, Sophos defends more than 500,000 organizations and more than 100 million users globally from active adversaries, ransomware, phishing, malware, and more. Sophos services and products connect through its cloud-based Sophos Central management console and are powered by Sophos X-Ops, the companys cross-domain threat intelligence unit. Sophos X-Ops intelligence optimizes the entire Sophos Adaptive Cybersecurity Ecosystem, which includes a centralized data lake that leverages a rich set of open APIs available to customers, partners, developers, and other cybersecurity and information technology vendors. Sophos provides cybersecurity-as-a-service to organizations needing fully-managed, turnkey security solutions. Customers can also manage their cybersecurity directly with Sophos security operations platform or use a hybrid approach by supplementing their in-house teams with Sophos services, including threat hunting and remediation. Sophos sells through reseller partners and managed service providers (MSPs) worldwide. Sophos is headquartered in Oxford, U.K. More information is available at www.sophos.com .

Contact: Samantha Powers, [email protected]

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[May 08, 2023] Noname Security Leaders Featured as CRN 2023 Women of the Channel

SAN JOSE, Calif., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Noname Security, the leading provider of complete and proactive API security, today announced that CRN , a brand of The Channel Company , has named two of the companys channel leaders to its Women of the Channel list for 2023. Noname Securitys Michele Shear, Channel Chief, and Rina Konishi, Senior Manager - Americas Marketing, have made this years list, which recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry.

The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees demonstrate creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence. Noname Security launched its API security solution in 2019 with a channel-first strategy, knowing the impact the partner community has when working with CISOs. As API security has continued to become a top priority for companies, Noname Security has continued to work closely with partners to help educate and enable them to show strategic value to their customers. "Michele and Rina are a dream team when it comes to channel strategy. Both are brilliant, driven, and thoughtful in their approach, they have been critical in leading Noname Securitys channel leadership. The focus on a channel-first strategy has accelerated Nonames growth unmatched by any other company, said Mike Baker, CRO of Noname Security. Michele established Noname Securitys channel-first strategy that the company executes today. She is a saleswoman at heart, working within the channel for 12 years, and believes that approaching channel partner with a service mindset is the key to building successful, lasting partnerships. Michele was previously recognized as a Women of the Channel in 2022 and is featured as a 2023 CRN Channel Chief . Rina has been a critical driver of the Noname Security program since its launch in Nov. 2021. Previously focused on building out channel and event programs at technology leaders Okta and Nutanix, Rina has spent the past two years refining the companys channel marketing strategy in close collaboration with Michele.



We are ecstatic to announce this years honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what theyve accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next. The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

About Noname Security

Noname Security is the only company taking a complete, proactive approach to API Security. Noname works with 20% of the Fortune 500 and covers the entire API security scope  Discovery, Posture Management, Runtime Protection, and API Security Testing. Noname Security is privately held, remote-first with headquarters in Silicon Valley, California, and offices in Tel Aviv and Amsterdam. About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn .  2023. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company LLC. All rights reserved. The Channel Company Contact:

Natalie Lewis

The Channel Company

[email protected] Noname Security Contact:

Stephanie Schlegel

Offleash for Noname

[email protected]



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[May 08, 2023] CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel Honors Chantelle Benesh and Jennifer Lee of IRONSCALES

IRONSCALES, the leading enterprise cloud email security platform combining AI and human insights to protect more than 10,000 global organizations, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Chantelle Benesh, Sr. Director of Field Marketing, and Jennifer Lee, Channel Business Manager, to the Women of the Channel list for 2023. Every year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry. The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence. "We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next." Chantelle Benesh has over 20 years of experience delivering ROI-driven digital, conent, brand, and field marketing strategies for global sales and marketing teams. As the Head of Global Field Marketing at IRONSCALES, she leads a team of field and event marketers who were instrumental in the creation and roll-out of the new IRONSCALES Partner Program, which launched in January 2023. Chantelle's passions include building relationships, networking, and helping partners build effective go-to-market strategies.



Jennifer Lee brings more than 20 years of experience driving joint sales within the channel partner community. As a Channel Business Manager at IRONSCALES, she is responsible for the strategy and execution of the IRONSCALES Partner Program as it continues to expand nationally. Jennifer is passionate about empowering women in the cybersecurity industry, and dedicates her time to mentoring other women as they embark on careers in the field. Jennifer also volunteers her time as a mentor at the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado Boulder. "We are extremely proud of the work that Chantelle and Jennifer have done over the past year in order to deliver on IRONSCALES' channel-first philosophy, and drive real, significant value for our partners," said Mark Fitzmaurice, SVP of Global Channel Sales at IRONSCALES. "This recognition speaks volumes to their exceptional talents and tireless work ethics, and is a testament to IRONSCALES' continued commitment to serving our channel partners. We are beyond proud to have Chantelle and Jennifer on the IRONSCALES team."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC. About IRONSCALES IRONSCALES is the leading cloud email security platform for the enterprise and the industry's only solution that uses AI and human insights (HI) to stop advanced phishing. Its award-winning, self-learning platform continuously detects and remediates attacks like BEC, ATO, and VIP impersonation that bypass traditional security solutions. Powerful, simple, and adaptive, IRONSCALES helps enterprises reduce risk, boost security team efficiency, and increase cybersecurity awareness. IRONSCALES is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and is proud to support more than 10,000 global enterprises. Visit http://www.ironscales.com or @IRONSCALES to learn more. About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn.  2023. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company LLC. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005143/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Accrete AI to Unveil Breakthrough Capabilities with Live Demos at SOF Week 2023

NEW YORK, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Accrete AI , a leading dual-use AI software company, has recently achieved a series of exciting milestones that are propelling the company to new heights. On the heels of a five-year Other Transaction-Production (OT-P) AI software licensing contract win worth tens of millions of dollars from the U.S. Department of Defense for Argus, Accrete's dual-use anomaly detection AI Agent is continuing to see growing demand. The company will be attending SOF Week 2023 as a prime defense contractor to demonstrate Argus groundbreaking new capabilities, designed to empower Special Operations communities to transcend traditional social listening tools and gain the information advantage. To reserve your spot for a live demo and to meet the Accrete team at SOF Week, visit the event page on the Accrete AI website .

As Accrete AI continues to expand th capabilities of our blockbuster Analytical AI Agent Argus , we welcome the opportunity to conduct on-site demos at SOF Week, with a particular focus on next-generation anomaly and threat detection for Social Media Intelligence and Supply Chain Risk Management, said Prashant Bhuyan, founder and CEO, Accrete AI.



Bhuyan has been invited to participate in the SOF Week 2023 Capability Accelerator Rally Point (CARP) Panel Session on May 10, which will primarily focus on "Private Equity and Venture Capital Support to Defense Start-Ups: Vignettes and Lessons Learned. The U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate is hosting the CARP, which will include a moderated panel of both Venture Capital firms and technology companies that have benefited from private investment that will discuss dual-use defense technologies, networking opportunities, and funding options. Leaders of companies specializing in national defense technology will provide their experiences working with PE and VC firms while operating in the defense sector. The company has also recently won four Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) awards to advance Argus capabilities even further, a clear demonstration of the U.S. governments dedication to driving innovative technology that addresses the most pressing challenges facing our nation. The program is highly competitive, with only a small percentage of applicants receiving awards. The awards include one from the U.S. Army, one from the U.S. Special Operations Command, and two from the U.S. Air Force.

"We are honored by these awards and thrilled to have successfully deployed Argus into production with the DoD," said Prashant Bhuyan. Were committed to advancing Argus capabilities to bolster national security and empower our country to win in a new era of threats such as misinformation, deep fakes, and viral influence. About Accrete AI Accrete AI, founded in 2017, delivers configurable dual-use Analytical AI Agents that automate complex analytical work for government and enterprise customers with a focus on defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. The companys mission is to create AI so powerful that it can perform analytical work that would otherwise require an army of human experts and generate predictive insight beyond human capacity, enabling our customers to grow in previously unimaginable ways. Accrete has 128 employees globally and is headquartered in Lower Manhattan with offices in Alexandria, Va., and Wellesley, Mass. For more information, visit www.accrete.ai. Contact: [email protected] Company: Accrete

Phone: (415) 640-1230 Web: www.accrete.ai



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[May 08, 2023] Impact Analytics Wins "Overall RetailTech Analytics Solution Provider of the Year" in the Inaugural RetailTech Breakthrough 2023 Awards Program

International awards program recognizes world's standout retail technology companies, products, and services LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, Md., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Impact Analytics , a leading provider of SaaS AI-based solutions for supply chain and merchandise planning in retail, CPG and manufacturing, announced today it has been selected as winner of the "Overall RetailTech Analytics Solution Provider of the Year" award in the inaugural RetailTech Breakthrough Awards program for 2023. Impact Analytics Wins "Overall RetailTech Analytics Solution Provider of the Year" RetailTech Breakthrough 2023 Awards "We're thrilled to accept this award as further confirmation of what our clients keep telling us: Our forecasting is the best in the retail industry," said Prashant Agrawal, CEO, Impact Analytics. "Because we've developed a deep understanding of algorithmic retailing and invest heavily in R&D, our retailer partners achieve their best-ever forecast accuracy and drive improvements in their replenishment process, warehouse operations, and more." Impact Analytics SmartSuite solution forecasts more than a billion retail SKU/stoe combinations every weekmore than any other solution in the businesswhich makes its 20,000+ machine learning models progressively better and faster, resulting in the industry's most powerful and scalable AI/ML forecasting engine. It empowers retailers with real-time internal and external data sources, automation and advanced analytics, and algorithms and AI that enable smarter decision making based on data-driven insights and the creation of repeatable, highly effective business processes. From multivariable forecasting to dynamic pricing optimization to AI-driven allocation, Impact Analytics ensures retailers connect big data to business success.



RetailTech Breakthrough is a leading independent market intelligence organization that evaluates and recognizes standout retail technology companies, products, and services around the globe. The annual RetailTech Breakthrough Awards program aims to conduct the most comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the retail technology industry's top companies, services, and solutions today. This year's program attracted more than 1,200 nominations from over 12 countries. "Retail is constantly shifting, and consumer driven, and brands that don't use data intelligently will be left behind," said Bryan Vaughn, Managing Director, RetailTech Breakthrough. "We are proud to honor Impact Analytics as the Overall RetailTech Analytics Solution Provider of the Year for the company's innovative solutions that are powering the use of AI in retail."

Impact Analytics was also recently ranked in the top 100 on Fortune's 2023 list of the Most Innovative Companies in America, which in part explains why in 2023 the company was also named, by The Financial Times, one of the fastest growing companies in Americafor the fourth straight year. ABOUT IMPACT ANALYTICS

Impact Analytics is a proven leader in Retail, CPG, Manufacturing and Supply Chain focused enterprise AI SaaS solutions. Its suite of products for planning, forecasting, merchandising and end-to-end lifecycle pricing is empowering leading retailers to make smart data-based decisions, transform their businesses, and achieve substantial business benefits. Impact Analytics' unique engagement model allows for quick implementations to be executed in a cost-efficient manner with lower TCO. To learn more, visit www.impactanalytics.co . ABOUT REALTECH BREAKTHROUGH

Part of Tech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence and recognition platform for global technology innovation and leadership, the RetailTech Breakthrough Awards program is the premier awards and recognition platform devoted to honoring excellence in retail technology companies, services and solutions around the world. The RetailTech Breakthrough Awards provide public recognition for the achievements of retail technology companies and products in categories that include store management, digital displays, checkout automation, workforce tools, smart dressing rooms and more. For more information visit retailtechbreakthrough.com . Ron Margulis

RAM Communications

Phone: (908) 337-0020

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/impact-analytics-wins-overall-retailtech-analytics-solution-provider-of-the-year-in-the-inaugural-retailtech-breakthrough-2023-awards-program-301818319.html SOURCE Impact Analytics

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[May 08, 2023] Venterra Realty Announces Partnership with Amenify

Partnership provides Venterra Residents access to housekeeping, chores, pet services, meal delivery, and more HOUSTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Venterra Realty has partnered with Amenify to provide its residents with a one-stop shop for multiple staffed services. Amenify is an end-to-end solution for amenity service teams in residential portfolios. Their services include cleaning, handyman, private meal delivery, grocery delivery, and more. Amenify's modern approach to the industry includes field provider technology for quality control, compliance, and real-time customer support across 250+ cities in the US. Through Amenify, Venterra residents can see their property's assigned service teams, access their credits and utilize the concierge support. For residents looking for regular housekeeping, local meal/grocery delivery, help with pet care, or furniture assembly  Amenify vetted pros are available for booking. All Venterra Realty residents will automatically receive $30 off any one service during their first month, or upon lease renewal, and $15/per month to use toward any service, creating unique value. "One of our goals in 203 is to simplify processes both internally and for our residents," said Venterra CEO John Foresi. "Through our partnership with Amenify, our residents will be able to benefit by saving money on services, spending less time on chores and task lists, and will be able to spend more time on activities that bring them joy instead."



"One challenge when working with a portfolio of properties across various states is delivering a consistent experience in all markets. This innovative service will undoubtedly improve and enhance our renter experience by allowing for us to provide a standardized set of offerings for resident services," added Venterra Chairman, Andrew Stewart. "Our partnership with Amenify is just another example of how we are continually striving to make life as convenient as possible for the residents of our communities." Everett Lynn, CEO, of Amenify said "It's a delight working with operators who invest resources in the resident experience. Happy residents = retention = a win-win. Kudos to the entire Venterra team, as their guidance has been instrumental for Amenify's growth. We look forward to continuing to innovate together in our partnership!"

About Venterra: Founded in 2001, Venterra Realty owns and manages approximately 80 communities and more than 23,000 apartment units across 19 major US cities that provide housing to over 44,000 people and 15,000 pets. The organization has completed approximately $8.7 billion in real estate transactions and currently manages a portfolio of multi-family real estate assets valued at over $4.7 billion. Venterra is committed to improving the lives of its residents by delivering industry-leading customer experience. Find out more about Venterra Realty and its award-winning company culture at Venterra.com. Contact: Allie Foard, Communications Manager & Brand Specialist; [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/venterra-realty-announces-partnership-with-amenify-301818323.html SOURCE Venterra Realty

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Air strikes again shook Sudan's capital Monday while the latest truce talks in Jeddah have yielded no progress, with a Saudi diplomat saying both sides consider themselves "capable of winning the battle".

The Sudanese army and its rival the paramilitay Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have sent representatives to Saudi Arabia for talks on establishing a humanitarian truce in an effort also backed by the United States, but to no avail so far.

By Monday, the talks had yielded "no major progress", a Saudi diplomat told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"A permanent ceasefire isn't on the table... Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle," the diplomat added.

In Khartoum, a city of five million, terrified residents reported more combat, now in its fourth week, as they hid out in their homes amid power outages and sweltering heat.

A southern Khartoum resident told AFP the family could hear "the sound of airstrikes which appeared to come from near a market in central Khartoum".

Dangerous everywhere

The fighting has sparked a mass exodus of foreigners and of Sudanese, in both air and sea evacuations and arduous overland journeys to Egypt, Chad, South Sudan and other neighbouring countries.

"It's very dangerous everywhere," said Rawaa Hamad, who escaped from Port Sudan on an evacuation flight to Qatar on Monday carrying 71 people.

In Sudan, she said, there is "no safety now, unfortunately", with its people enduring "a lack of everything -- a lack of water, lack of fuel, lack of medicine, lack of even hospitals and doctors".

The battles have killed more than 750 people and injured over 5,000, according to a count by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project.

The United Nations has warned of a widening humanitarian crisis after fighting has already displaced 335,000 people and created 117,000 refugees.

More than 60,000 Sudanese have fled north into Egypt, 30,000 west to Chad, and over 27,000 to South Sudan, according to the UN.

The UN top humanitarian official, Martin Griffiths, has travelled to the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, the site of what Washington and Riyadh have labelled "pre-negotiation talks".

A UN official said on Monday that Griffiths had "asked to join the negotiations" between the warring sides, but that his request had not been approved so far.

Mediation efforts

Saudi Arabia is pushing for "a timetable for expanded negotiations to reach a permanent cessation of hostilities", its foreign ministry said.

The Jeddah talks, which are set to continue "in the following days", aim to reach "an effective short-term halt" to the fighting, facilitating aid delivery and restoring basic services, it added.

A major breakthrough would be to secure humanitarian corridors to allow aid through Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast to Khartoum and to the strife-torn Darfur region bordering Chad.

Since mid-April, multiple truce deals have been declared and quickly violated in the poverty-stricken country with a history of instability.

Mediation efforts have multiplied.

The African Union -- which holds little leverage after suspending Sudan following a coup in 2021 -- and East African regional bloc IGAD are pushing for discussions mediated by South Sudan.

The Arab League on Sunday called for an end to hostilities and the preservation of Sudan's "sovereignty", but without specifying details.

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[May 08, 2023] CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel Honors Ana Lucia Amaral and Vivien Lim of Checkmarx

Recognition is based on expertise, vision and impact on the industry ATLANTA and RAMAT GAN. Israel, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Checkmarx , the global leader in application security solutions, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Ana Lucia Amaral, Senior Regional and Partner Marketing Manager, Americas and Vivien Lim, Regional and Partner Marketing Lead, AMA to the Women of the Channel list for 2023. Every year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry. The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence. Ana Lucia Amaral is a data-driven and business-minded multilingual channel marketing professional with more than 20 years of experience in the technology domain, providing companies with the marketing tools, resources and processes best suited to drive business growth with partners. Vivien Lim is well known for her deep understanding of the technology and solutions represented by Checmarx partners, and for her ability to help communicate the true value that they provide to customers. She has a track record of introducing innovative marketing strategies that effectively drive customer acquisition and retention for AMA channel partners.



"We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next." "We celebrate this recognition of our channel leaders Vivien and Ana for their accomplishments in working with our highly valued partners," said Amit Daniel, Chief Marketing Officer at Checkmarx. "Partners are a critical force multiplier as we work to enable the enterprise to continue the move to the cloud and establish a holistic 'shift everywhere' approach to application security."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC. About Checkmarx Checkmarx is the leading application security provider, offering the industry's most comprehensive and innovative cloud-native platform, Checkmarx One. Fueled by intelligence from our industry-leading AppSec security research team, our products and services enable enterprises to shift everywhere in order to secure every phase of development for every application while simultaneously balancing the dynamic needs of CISOs, security teams, and development teams. We are honored to serve more than 1,800 customers, including 60 percent of Fortune 100 organizations, and are committed to moving forward with an unwavering dedication to the safety and security of our customers and the applications that power our day-to-day lives. Checkmarx. Make Shift Happen. About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn .  2023. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company LLC. All rights reserved. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/crns-2023-women-of-the-channel-honors-ana-lucia-amaral-and-vivien-lim-of-checkmarx-301818329.html SOURCE Checkmarx

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[May 08, 2023] CRN Honors Lori Cornmesser of Deepwatch

Deepwatch, the leader in advanced managed detection and response (MDR) security, announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Lori Cornmesser, Senior Vice President of Global Channel Sales and Alliances at Deepwatch, to the 2023 Women of the Channel Power 100, a recognition of prominent leaders selected from the CRN 2023 Women of the Channel list. The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear, turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. The annual Power 100 honors some of the most influential women from technology vendors and distributors based on their remarkable contributions, expertise, and channel advocacy. The women who populate the Power 100 have gone above and beyond with their extraordinary commitment to the IT channel community, implementing strategies that have accelerated the success of their partners and customers-and the broader channel ecosystem. Lori is recognized as an industry leader with distinctions such as CRN's Most Influential Channel Chiefs for 2023 and 2022 and CRN's Top 25 Channel Sales Leadership of 2022, Top 100 Executives, Women of the Channel Power 100, and Channel Chiefs. She has also been awarded Tech Inclusion Conference's Top 100 Diverse Leader and Global Touch's IT Wondrous Women. Lori is instrumental in leading Deepwatch toward its growth goals, as the company achieved unprecedented growth of over 100% year-over-year in ARR bookings growth and deal registrations. Additionally, under Lori's leadership, Deepwatch launched the eepwatch Expert Engineer Program (DEEP). DEEP is designed for Solution Engineers and provides in-person sessions to strengthen expertise with SecOps content to enable Partners to customize solutions that mature their security operations.



"We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next." "It's such an honor to be recognized on CRN's Women of the Channel Power 100 list," said Lori Cornmesser, Senior Vice President of Global Channel Sales and Alliances at Deepwatch. "This award further solidifies Deepwatch's partner-first approach. We look forward to continuing our momentum as we provide our channel partners with best-in-class programs and services to support their growth."

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC. About Deepwatch Deepwatch is the leader in managed detection and response, protecting organizations from ever-increasing cyber threats. Powered by its Threat Analytics platform, Deepwatch provides the industry's fastest, most comprehensive detection and automated response to cyber threats. Deepwatch's Platform includes tailored guidance from security experts 24/7/365 to reduce risk and improve security posture. Many of the world's leading companies, from the Fortune 100 to mid-sized enterprises, trust Deepwatch to protect their business. Visit www.deepwatch.com to learn more. About The Channel Company The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers, and end-users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com Follow The Channel Company: Twitter and LinkedIn.  2023. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company LLC. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005487/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Stanton Chase, D.C. Hosts Webinar on Preventing New Hires from Getting Recruited Out

Experienced Human Resources and Talent Executives Will Discuss Causes and Solutions WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Organizations often make significant investments of time and money to hire senior leaders for executive roles. But many employers are seeing these new hires quickly recruited out by the competition, and they're back to square one. The Stanton Chase Washington, D.C. office will host a webinar examining causes and solutions on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 2:00 PM ET. The webinar will feature: A panel of experienced human resources and talent experts with insight on why high level talent are at risk for departure.

Steps employers can take before and after hiring to increase an employee's tenure and success.

How to to course correct if a new executive departs. Register here. Webinar panelists include: Colette Colclough , Vice President for Human Resources at Maryland Public Television with more than 20 years of experience in human resources, training, and management.

, Vice President for Human Resources at Maryland Public Television with more than 20 years of experience in human resources, training, and management. Tracy Ferry , Director at Stanton Chase and former Head of Global Talent for Godiva Chocolatier with more than 20 years of talent and search experience.

, Director at Stanton Chase and former Head of Global Talent for Godiva Chocolatier with more than 20 years of talent and search experience. Bill Stratton , Managing Director at Stanton Chase with more than 20 years of executive search and leadership development experience.

, Managing Director at Stanton Chase with more than 20 years of executive search and leadership development experience. Natalie Stute , Chief Human Resources Officer at CentralSquare with more than 20 years of experience in human resources leadership.



About Stanton Chase

Established in 1990, Stanton Chase is a leading global executive search firms. The company operates through focused industry practice groups, each led by a global practice team leader. Stanton Chase consultants offer unparalleled expertise via three core services: executive search, executive assessment, and board services. The company's Washington, D.C. office has an established track record of delivering executive search excellence to its clients in the nonprofit, aerospace, media, private equity, and government contracting sectors. More information is available here.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stanton-chase-dc-hosts-webinar-on-preventing-new-hires-from-getting-recruited-out-301818331.html SOURCE Stanton Chase

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[May 08, 2023] Joseph Patterson Joins First Farmers as Commercial Relationship Manager

First Farmers and Merchants Corporation (OTC Pink: FFMH), the holding company for First Farmers and Merchants Bank, today announced that Joseph Patterson has joined the bank as a Commercial Relationship Manager. "We are pleased to announce that Joey Patterson has joined our commercial banking team at First Farmers," stated Mr. Rory Mallard, Chief Commercial Banking Officer. "He brings a wealth of experience in commercial lending in Middle Tennessee and a proven track record in building long-term relationships with his customers. Prior to joining First Farmers, he was recognized with the President's Circle Award from CapStar Bank, his former employer. We are pleased to have Joey on our team to strengthen our support of existing customers and expand our commercial customer base." Joseph Patterson has over ten years of experience in the financial servces industry. He started his banking career at U.S. Bank where he was a Senior Banking Business Specialist. He most recently served as Vice President Commercial Relationship Manager for CapStar Bank in Brentwood and Nashville, TN. Patterson attended the University of Tennessee and is a graduate of Independence University with a major in Business Administration and Management.



About First Farmers and Merchants Corporation and First Farmers and Merchants Bank First Farmers and Merchants Corporation is the holding company for First Farmers and Merchants Bank, a community bank serving the Middle Tennessee area through 22 offices in seven Middle Tennessee counties. As of March 31, 2023, First Farmers reported total assets of approximately $1.9 billion, total shareholders' equity of approximately $110 million, and administered trust assets of $5.8 billion. For more information about First Farmers, visit us on the Web at www.myfirstfarmers.com under "Investor Relations."

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230505005474/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Bryan Baier Named President of Healthy Blue Kansas

Bryan Baier, a healthcare industry veteran and native Kansan, has been named president of Healthy Blue Kansas. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005384/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) "I am honored to return to my home state to lead Healthy Blue in this effort to serve our fellow Kansans," said Baier. "By partnering with the KanCare program, care providers and community-based organizations across the state, Healthy Blue is eager for the chance to coordinate the care and critical support services that will enable individuals to live healthy and productive lives." Healthy Blue, a collaboration of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC), intends to bid on a contract this year to serve the 415,000 individuals in KanCare, the state's Medicaid program. "Bryan is recognized throughout the industry as a trusted leader who brings to Healthy Blue an extensive knowledge of Medicaid and the important role it plays in the lives and well-being of Kansans," said Greg Sweat, MD, SVP and Chief Health Officer, Blue KC. "Under Bryn's leadership, Healthy Blue will build and expand on our commitment to working with community-based organizations across the state to improve the health of Kansas communities."



Healthy Blue aspires to be a new choice for people enrolled in KanCare and is committed to raising awareness of behavioral health and working to advance telehealth across the state to improve access to care, especially in rural underserved areas. Healthy Blue will also collaborate with organizations that are addressing challenges like food insecurity and the social drivers of health that create health inequities. "Healthy Blue is made up of organizations that have a combined 160 years of experience improving the health of individuals," said Matt All, president and CEO of BCBSKS. "Healthy Blue combines a local focus with national experience that will provide access to care and benefits to support the health needs of Kansans to help them achieve a higher quality of life. We are happy to welcome Bryan back to his home state to lead this important effort."

Baier has more than 20 years of experience in regulatory, compliance, and legislative advocacy with Medicaid managed care organizations (MCO's). He founded the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans and successfully advocated for changes in drug rebate pricing for Medicaid programs, a change that saves state Medicaid programs $2 billion a year. Baier, a fifth generation Kansan, was born in Hays and attended Topeka High School. He is a graduate of the University of Kansas and earned his law degree at Loyola University Chicago. About Healthy Blue Healthy Blue is a collaboration of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) and Anthem Partnership Holding Company, LLC which was formed specifically to serve Medicaid enrollees. APHC has many years of Medicaid experience through its parent and affiliated companies, serving more than 11 million Medicaid enrollees across 25 markets, including Medicaid members with specialized needs similar to those of the KanCare population. Their Medicaid expertise -- combined with the strong and longstanding provider relationships held by BCBSKS and Blue KC across all 105 counties - would position Healthy Blue to infuse both innovation and accountability to the KanCare program if selected as a new managed care organization when the state conducts a procurement this year. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005384/en/

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[May 08, 2023] SMU researchers honoured for innovative & timely research on Augmented Reality in Retail

SINGAPORE, May 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Researchers from Singapore Management University (SMU) have been recognised for their study on 'Augmented Reality in Retail and Its Impact on Sales' (Volume 86, Issue 1) and honoured with the 2022 AMA/Marketing Science Institute/H. Paul Root Award. The innovative and timely research by Assistant Professor Yong-Chin Tan from City University of Hong Kong (who graduated with a PhD from SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business), SMU Associate Professor of Marketing Sandeep R. Chandukala and SMU Professor Emeritus of Marketing Srinivas K. Reddy has been recognised to be the Journal of Marketing article that has made the most significant contribution to the advancement of marketing practice in 2022. The research sheds light on how marketing managers and online retailers can transform the way they connect with customers using augmented reality (AR) to enhance their bottom-line. The authors conceptualised the role of AR in entertaining, educating and evaluating brands, and offered strong actionable recommendations to help marketers determine when AR would be most effective with respect to product preference, category sales and channel choice. Their study found that AR usage in online settings positively affects customer behaviour and sales. They also found that the impact of AR usage is stronger when customers are purchasing for the first time from a product category; for less popular brands; and for less mainstream products. The study's real-world impact cannot be ignored, as an industry report projects that the worldwide market size of AR/VR in retail will grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 40% in the next few years (Allied Market Research 2022). According to a survey by NeilsenIQ, customers enjoy using AR applications, and they are becoming reliant on the tools to make purchase decisions. For example, 56% of shoppers surveyed by NielsenIQ said that AR gives them more confidence about the quality of a product, and 61% said they prefer to shop with retailers that offer AR experiences. Yet, according to Mobile Marketer, 52% of retailers say that they are not ready to integrate advanced technologies into their shopping experiences. On the motivation for this study, Professor Reddy said, "Our team is honoured to be recognised for this study. We hav been working with firms  both online and offline retailers  on research problems that would have an impact on practice. The use of AR was an interesting research problem for which we did not find much prior work. With AR becoming a popular trend in the retail industry, and blurring the lines between physical and digital shopping, it is going to transform the sector - both for customers and retailers alike."



Associate Professor Chandukala said, "Customers want AR, but managers must have a proper understanding of how AR can help their brand before they invest in the technology. I believe our research will help retailers better understand how they can integrate AR into customer experience, and make better business and investment decisions." The selection committee, composed of esteemed professors Detelina Marinova, Ralf Van Der Lans, and P.K. Kannan, praised the authors for their thought-provoking study on the growing use of AR in retail. The paper offers practical recommendations for marketing managers and online retailers to use AR to enhance their bottom line by connecting with customers at different stages of the customer journey.

The article will be honoured at the Summer AMA Academic Conference to be held in August 2023 in San Francisco. Past recipients of this award can be found here. About the AMA/MSI/H. Paul Root Award The AMA/MSI/H. Paul Root Award is an annual award presented by the American Marketing Association (AMA) in collaboration with the Marketing Science Institute (MSI). It is named after H. Paul Root, who was a pioneer in the field of marketing research. First presented in 1994, it recognises an outstanding article that advances the practice of marketing research in terms of its originality, rigor, relevance, and potential impact. The article should have been published in a peer-reviewed journal within the past three years and should address a significant problem or opportunity in the field of marketing research. The award is highly prestigious within the marketing research community and is considered one of the most significant honors in the field. Past winners feature researchers from prestigious business schools / universities globally, including University of Chicago, Columbia University, Northwestern University, MIT, London Business School, University of Cambridge and HEC Paris. Enclosure: AMA announcement - https://www.ama.org/press-releases/tan-chandukala-and-reddy-win-the-2022-ama-marketing-science-institute-h-paul-root-award/ About Singapore Management University (SMU) A premier university in Asia, SMU is internationally recognised for its world-class research and distinguished teaching. Established in 2000, SMU's mission is to generate leading-edge research with global impact and to produce broad-based, creative and entrepreneurial leaders for the knowledge-based economy. SMU's education is known for its highly interactive, collaborative and project-based approach to learning. Home to over 12,000 students across undergraduate, postgraduate professional and postgraduate research programmes, SMU is comprised of eight schools: School of Accountancy, Lee Kong Chian School of Business, School of Economics, School of Computing and Information Systems, Yong Pung How School of Law, School of Social Sciences, College of Integrative Studies and College of Graduate Research Studies. SMU offers a wide range of bachelors', masters' and PhD degree programmes in the disciplinary areas associated with the six schools, as well as in multidisciplinary combinations of these areas. SMU emphasises rigorous, high-impact, multi- and interdisciplinary research that addresses Asian issues of global relevance. SMU faculty members collaborate with leading international researchers and universities around the world, as well as with partners in the business community and public sector. SMU's city campus is a modern facility located in the heart of downtown Singapore, fostering strategic linkages with business, government and the wider community. www.smu.edu.sg About Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) SMU commenced its curriculum in 2000 with the School of Business, which welcomed its pioneer cohort of students in August 2000. In 2004, the Lee Foundation contributed S$50 million to SMU in honour of the late Dr Lee Kong Chian, a well-known Southeast Asian businessman, philanthropist and community leader. In recognition of the Lee Foundation's generosity, SMU named in perpetuity the School of Business, the building and the university-wide scholars programme after Dr Lee Kong Chian. Today, LKCSB is a dynamic Asian business school with more than 4,000 students and over a hundred full-time faculty members with doctorate degrees from renowned universities such as Cornell, Harvard, INSEAD, London Business School, Wharton, Oxford, Stanford and Yale. The school offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes and is affiliated with a number of research centres such as the Sim Kee Boon Institute for Financial Economics, the Centre for Marketing Excellence and the Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. www.business.smu.edu.sg Photos of the researchers are available upon request. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/smu-researchers-honoured-for-innovative--timely-research-on-augmented-reality-in-retail-301818412.html SOURCE Singapore Management University

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[May 08, 2023] TD Ameritrade Investor Movement Index: April Sees Modest Gains in IMX Score

The Investor Movement Index (IMXSM) increased to 4.74 in April, up from its score of 4.57 in March. The IMX is TD Ameritrade's proprietary, behavior-based index, aggregating Main Street investor positions and activity to measure what investors actually were doing and how they were positioned in the markets. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005163/en/ The reading for the four-week period ending April 28, 2023 ranks "moderate low" compared to historic averages. "Since the start of the year, we've seen the IMX score creep up month-over-month, although it remains relatively low," said Lorraine Gavican-Kerr, Managing Director, Investor Education at TD Ameritrade. "Time will tell, but this may indicate that TD Ameritrade clients are feeling cautiously optimistic when it comes to the many unknowns the market currently faces." The April IMX period included several macroeconomic catalysts and the beginning of the latest earnings season. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Employment Situation report showed a stubbornly strong jobs market with an unemployment rate that ticked down to 3.5%. The International Monetary Fund cut its World Economic Outlook, forecasting global growth at 2.8% for 2023, down from 3.4% in 2022, before settling at 3% in 2024. The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimated that U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 1.1% during the first quarter of 2023, well below Street forecasts of 2%. Throughout the recent corporate earnings season, many companies posted better-than-expected results but provided cautious outlooks for the rest of the year. All of this painted a picture of economic uncertainty, which could cloud the path forward for the Federal Reserve's efforts to restore price stability. Despite this, the S&P 500 index (SPX) managed a modest rally of 1.46%, ending on its highs for the month. The Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) ended the April period at 15.78, its lowest level since November 2021, reflecting less-volatile trading activity during the month. Still, significant risks remain, including U.S. lawmakers' imminent need to reach a deal on raising the debt ceiling. The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) moved slightly lower to 3.45%, and the U.S. Dollar Index ($DXY) eased to 101.67. Crude Oil (/CL) was volatile once again as prices fluctuated on demand concerns, but ultimately settled modestly higher at $76.63 per barrel, up 1.05% for the month. TD Ameritrade clients were net buyers of equities overall during the period. Popular names bought included: Tesla Inc. (TSLA)

Realty Income Corp. (O)

Medical Properties Trust Inc. (MPW)

AT&T Inc. T)

Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ)



Meta Platforms Inc. (META)

Microsoft Corp. (MSFT)

Apple Inc. (AAPL)

Intel Corp. (INTC)

Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) Millennial Buys & Sells

TD Ameritrade millennial clients, like the overall TD Ameritrade client population, increased exposure during the April period and were net buyers of equities. Both TD Ameritrade millennial clients and the overall TD Ameritrade client population were net buyers of Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) companies Realty Income Corporation (O) and Medical Properties Trust (MPW), as they appeared to see an opportunity to increase their exposure to real estate. Both populations were net buyers of electric vehicle (EV) maker Tesla (TSLA) despite its recent price cuts weighing on the company's margins. Amazon (AMZN) was net bought by TD Ameritrade millennials in April despite comments from company leadership during its quarterly earnings call that sounded alarms regarding the future growth rate of its Amazon Web Services (AWS) segment. Meta Platforms (META) continued its red-hot start to 2023 with a blowout quarterly earnings report that sent shares soaring; both populations were net sellers into its strength. TD Ameritrade millennials were also net sellers of Nvidia (NVDA) as the semiconductor giant sputtered in April despite positioning itself to benefit strongly from the recent Artificial Intelligence (AI) arms race. TD Ameritrade millennial clients bought most heavily in Consumer Discretionary names, while selling was strongest in Communication Services stocks. About the IMX The IMX value is calculated based on a complex proprietary formula. Each month, TD Ameritrade pulls a sample from its client base of funded accounts, which includes all accounts that completed a trade in the past month. The holdings and positions of this statistically significant sample are evaluated to calculate individual scores, and the median of those scores represents the monthly IMX. For more information on the Investor Movement Index, including historical IMX data going back to January 2010, to view the full report from April 2023, or to sign up for future IMX news alerts, please visit www.tdameritrade.com/IMX. Additionally, TD Ameritrade clients can chart the IMX using the symbol $IMX in either the thinkorswim or thinkorswim Mobile platforms. Inclusion of specific security names in this commentary does not constitute a recommendation from TD Ameritrade to buy, sell, or hold. All investments involve risk including the possible loss of principal. Please consider all risks and objectives before investing. Past performance of a security, strategy, or index is no guarantee of future results or investment success. Historical data should not be used alone when making investment decisions. Please consult other sources of information and consider your individual financial position and goals before making an independent investment decision. The IMX is not a tradable index. The IMX should not be used as an indicator or predictor of future client trading volume or financial performance for TD Ameritrade. IMX data includes that from accounts of TD Ameritrade clients which recently transferred to our affiliate, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., as part of our planned integration. About TD Ameritrade TD Ameritrade provides investing services and education to self-directed investors and registered investment advisors. A leader in U.S. retail trading, we leverage the latest in cutting-edge technologies and one-on-one client care to help our clients stay on top of market trends. Learn more by visiting www.tdameritrade.com. Brokerage services provided by TD Ameritrade, Inc., member FINRA (www.FINRA.org) / SIPC (www.SIPC.org), a subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation. TD Ameritrade is a trademark jointly owned by TD Ameritrade IP Company, Inc. and The Toronto-Dominion Bank.  2023 Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. All rights reserved. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005163/en/

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[May 08, 2023] Investor Alert: IB Platform

Be an informed investor - Don't be fooled by fraudsters misrepresenting themselves TORONTO, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - New Self-Regulatory Organization of Canada (New SRO) is warning Canadian investors not to be fooled by IB Platform a.k.a. IBANK Platform. In social media advertisements, IB Platform or IBANK Platform is implying they are regulated by the former Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC), the former Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada (MFDA), and a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), by presenting information to investors with regulatory logos and generating fraudulent versions of IIROC's Advisor Report, which are only issued for individual advisors. Neither IB Platform nor IBANK Platform is a member of New Self-Regulatory Organization of Canada and was never registered with IIROC or the MFDA to sell any investment products. All investors must be informed and ask themselves important questions before purchasing higher-risk investment products that do not trade on stock exchanges. Investors should know that unregulated trading platforms are different from regulated marketplaces and may be missing key investor protections. Registered investment firms are regulated, and individuals must meet our high standards and deal fairly, honestly and in good faith with Canadian investors. We urge Canadian investors to exercise caution when dealing with non-registered firms. Investors should confirm investment firms are registered with New SRO, formerly IIROC , or with the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) .



Investors can also check the background, qualifications and any disciplinary history of investment advisors registered with New SRO by checking the free AdvisorReport for advisors, or the CSA's National Registration Search for mutual fund dealers . If you believe you have been a victim of this or a similar scam, contact your local police, or the CSA for your provincial securities commission contact information, and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre . About New SRO

New Self-Regulatory Organization of Canada (New SRO) is the national self-regulatory organization that oversees all investment dealers, mutual fund dealers and trading activity on Canada's debt and equity marketplaces. New SRO is carrying on the regulatory functions of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and the Mutual Fund Dealers Association of Canada, and is committed to the protection of investors, providing efficient and consistent regulation, and building Canadians' trust in financial regulation and the people managing their investments. For more information, visit www.newselfregulatoryorganizationofcanada.ca . SOURCE New Self-Regulatory Organization of Canada (New SRO)

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[May 08, 2023] Santa Coin Unveils New Whitepaper and Roadmap, Revolutionizing the Memecoin Market with AI Technology

STOCKHOLM , May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A Philanthropic Cryptocurrency Bringing the Spirit of Giving to the Blockchain

The innovative memecoin project shares ambitious plans for integrating AI-driven tools and fostering community growth.

Promoting sustainability and supporting charitable causes, Santa Coin creates a thriving ecosystem for businesses and individuals to celebrate the festive spirit of Christmas all year round. Santa Coin, a novel cryptocurrency project, is set to revolutionize the blockchain space by promoting the spirit of giving, supporting sustainable practices, and fostering an ecosystem where both businesses and individuals can benefit from the festive spirit of Christmas, all year round. Built on the core principles of transparency, sustainability, and philanthropy, Santa Coin aims to bring joy and prosperity to its users while supporting charitable causes and environmental protection initiatives. The recently released Santa Coin whitepaper provides an in-depth overview of the project's vision, goals, and technical specifications. Emphasizing the importance of community involvement and decentralized governance, Santa Coin empowers token holders to participate in decision-making processes, cultivating a sense of ownership and pride among users. Santa Coin's unique approach combines the excitement of the memecoin market with the power of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The platform integrates AI-driven tools, such as SantaGPT, a text-based AI tool for generating festive content and market analysis, and an AI-powered image generator for creating engaging memes and graphics. These innovative features cater to a diverse range of use cases for individuals, businesses, content creators, and developers alike. In line with its commitment to sustainability and philanthropy, Santa Coin plans to allocate a portion of its tokenomics to support charitable organizations and environmental initiatives. This approach not only encourages the spirit of giving within the community but also ensures the project has lasting positive impact on society and the environment.



The Santa Coin development roadmap outlines ambitious milestones for the project, such as the launch of SantaGPT, integrating open Ais chatGPT into a Telegram chatbot, and expansion to the Ethereum network. By achieving these key objectives, Santa Coin aims to establish itself as a leading cryptocurrency with a focus on promoting the festive spirit of Christmas and supporting philanthropic endeavors. Santa Coin is committed to maintaining transparency with regulatory authorities and providing any required reports or documentation as needed. By actively engaging with regulators and complying with reporting requirements, the project demonstrates its commitment to operating within the boundaries of applicable laws and regulations.

By prioritizing legal and regulatory compliance, Santa Coin aims to establish itself as a trustworthy and reliable project in the cryptocurrency space. This approach not only protects the interests of its users and token holders but also helps ensure the long-term sustainability and success of the platform. As the Santa Coin project continues to grow and evolve, the release of its whitepaper and ambitious roadmap signals a new era in the project, bringing the spirit of giving, sustainability, and philanthropy to the forefront. The project invites interested individuals and businesses to join its community, contribute to its growth, and be part of the Santa Coin movement. To learn more about Santa Coin, its whitepaper, and the roadmap, visit the official website at https://santacoin.io/ and join the community on social media channels like Telegram, Twitter, and Reddit. About Santa Coin Santa Coin is a novel cryptocurrency project designed to promote the spirit of giving, support sustainable practices, and create an ecosystem where both businesses and individuals can benefit from the festive spirit of Christmas all year round. Built on the core principles of transparency, sustainability, and philanthropy, Santa Coin aims to bring joy and prosperity to its users while supporting charitable causes and environmental protection initiatives. For more information, visit [https://santacoin.io/]. Contact person: Terry Junior Website: https://santacoin.io/ SantaGPT: https://santagpt.ai/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Santa_Coins Telegram group: https://t.me/santacoingroup Telegram Channel: https://t.me/santanewsofficial Medium: https://medium.com/@santa.coin Disclaimer: The information provided in this release is not investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is recommended that you practice due diligence (including consultation with a professional financial advisor) before investing or trading securities and cryptocurrency.

Terry Junior SantaGPT anslem at santacoin.io

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AGCO Provides Update on Its Indiana Dealership Network

AGCO Corporation (NYSE: AGCO), a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, today announced progress to fulfill its North American distribution strategy in Indiana with full-line sales and service for its Fendt and Massey Ferguson brands from three key dealerships:

Plevna Implement's existing outlets in northern Indiana in Nappanee and Kokomo will be complemented with a new location in Auburn in Q2 2023, and expansion into western Indiana in the coming months.

Laker Farm Implement's recent expansion of their current store in Rushville provides significantly greater capabilities to their central Indiana customers.

AgRevolution continues to broaden its sales and support services in southern Indiana with its 2022 expansion into Vincennes, an upcoming new facility in Corydon, and the recent addition of mobile remote support services.

MacAllster Machinery announced a transition from its current agricultural model in September 2023 to focus on core business lines. MacAllister will continue providing aftersales support for AGCO products through September 2024. Plevna, Laker Farm, and AgRevolution will provide continuous sales and support to Indiana farmers for all AGCO brands.







"AGCO maintains a very solid sales and support dealer network throughout Indiana, and we are excited about the growth and momentum of our Plevna, Laker Farm, and AgRevolution dealerships," said Bill Hurley, AGCO VP, Distribution Americas.

For more information regarding AGCO dealerships, go to AGCOcorp.com.

Fendt and Massey Ferguson are registered trademarks of AGCO. AgRevolution is a trademark of AgRevolution LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AGCO.

About AGCO

AGCO (NYSE:AGCO) is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology. AGCO delivers customer value through its differentiated brand portfolio, including core brands like Fendt, GSI, Massey Ferguson, Precision Planting, and Valtra. Powered by Fuse smart farming solutions, AGCO's full line of equipment and services help farmers sustainably feed our world. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Duluth, Georgia, USA, AGCO had net sales of approximately $12.7 billion in 2022. For more information, visit www.AGCOcorp.com. For company news, information, and events, please follow us on Twitter: @AGCOCorp. For financial news on Twitter, please follow the hashtag #AGCOIR.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005620/en/
Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry delivered a message from President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to his Chadian counterpart, President Idriss Deby, on Monday that discussed coordination between Egypt and Chad regarding the ongoing development in Sudan, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said.





The message also discussed the role of Chad and neighbouring countries in supporting efforts to stop the fighting, according to the Egyptian foreign ministry.

It also discussed the humanitarian crisis the Sudanese people face due to the ongoing fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Shoukry is visiting Chad to discuss the developments in Sudan and the impact of the conflict there on neighbouring countries.

He will also be visiting South Sudan for the same reasons.

The foreign minister reviewed Egypt's political efforts to resolve the crisis early on, and its direct communication with the conflicting parties to encourage them to achieve a sustainable ceasefire and engage in dialogue.

Shoukry also explained that Egypt had received over 60,000 refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan, highlighting the immense human suffering inflicted on the Sudanese due to this conflict.

He added that continuous and extensive consultation and greater coordination were necessary to achieve a peaceful settlement in Sudan.

Egypt, Sudans northern neighbour, has been pushing for a ceasefire to the conflict between the SAF and RSF since mid-April.

It has also welcomed the start of initial talks between representatives of the two conflicting sides on Saturday  the first since the conflict occurred  in the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

During the meeting, the Chadian president expressed his great appreciation for President Sisi's initiative to send the foreign minister to Chad at a time when the Sudanese people are facing serious security and political challenges.

Chad looks forward to coordinating with Egypt to encourage the Sudanese parties to achieve a sustainable, comprehensive ceasefire that allows delivering humanitarian aid, and prepares the ground for constructive dialogue to resolve disputes between the Sudanese parties, the Egyptian foreign ministry quoted President Deby as saying.

According to the UN Refugees Agency, UNHCR, 25,994 Sudanese have crossed the borders to Chad since the beginning of the conflict in mid-April.

Chad already hosts a lot of Sudanese refugees who fled during past conflicts. The UNHCR estimates that 580,000 refugees, who fled conflicts in neighbouring Sudan, currently reside in Chad.

Besides the challenges posed by a new influx of refugees from Sudan, Chad fears the Sudanese conflict will cause tribal tensions as many tribes extend between Chad and Sudan.

The RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo's tribe of Rizeigat is a case in point.

In the early days of the conflict, in mid-April, the council of the Arab tribes of Chad issued a statement criticizing the RSF for recruiting young Chadian fighters from the tribes.

The conflict in Sudan has killed hundreds of Sudanese people so far, injured thousands of others and caused tens of thousands to flee the country amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation.

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[May 08, 2023] Jefferson Smith, Portland Host of Weekly Democracy Nerd Podcast Celebrates the Spirit of '76

Portland, OR, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jefferson Smith, Portland, Oregon native and host of the weekly podcast Democracy Nerd, believes democracy is under siege all over the world. The impact of anti-democracy movements has definitely been to weaken structures of democratic institutions not just in America, but everywhere, Jefferson declares. But I think the real, long-term damage is how these movements have successfully undermined the idea that democracy itself is a force for good. I believe this is where Democracy Nerd, and shows like it, have an important role to play. The discussions on Democracy Nerd do not endeavor to find a middle  false or otherwise, but Jefferson does seem to work to find the answer. So much of the current political discourse whirls around anger, Jefferson explained. And while that anger is so often quite legitimate and justifiable  and can generate heat, clicks, views, and lights up our reptilian brain  it can freeze our frontal lobes. Political anger is useful to incite action but doesnt always motivate answers. Were not above anger, but mostly we try to help people understand. A key theme of the show  as the title makes clear  is democracy itself. The show does dive into issues, such as felon enfranchisement with Desmond Moore, whose work in Florida earned Moore a MacArthur Genius Grant. But much of the show digs into the process of democracy. For example, two deep dives ( Episodes 4 & Episod 57 ) into redistricting reform with Katie Fahey, who led the charge to reform gerrymandering in Michigan.



Jefferson Smith and Democracy Nerd recently aired its 76th episode , a thoughtful discussion about the racial wealth gap and economic social justice, with Francisco Perez, an economics professor at the University of Utah and former director of the Center for Popular Economics. This episode is emblematic of the purpose behind the Democracy Nerd podcast, says podcast producer Kyle Curtis. Both Jefferson and Professor Perez came prepared to discuss an important issue, the racial wealth gap. Professor Perezs thoughtful answers to Jeffersons probing questions helped fill potential blind spots while also allowing the opportunity to share relevant resources.

Jefferson Smith, based in Portland , is an accomplished public speaker, entrepreneur, and former lawmaker, who serves on the board of several organizations that further pro-democracy policies in his beloved home state of Oregon and beyond. He is the regular guest host for national talk show host Thom Hartmann, spent several years as the Executive Director of a non-profit progressive talk radio station, and currently hosts the Democracy Nerd podcast.

Intensely passionate about the future of the United States of America, Jefferson Smith uses the Democracy Nerd platform to interview and cultivate meaningful discussions with policy leaders, elected officials, journalists, authors, and other people involved in or connected to politics and public life. With a focus on the threats facing American democracy, Smith and his guests celebrate policy proposals and people-powered movements that can effectively respond to these challenges. Jeffersons colorful life and career inform the show, but it doesnt dwell much there; instead, he applies his Harvard Law-trained brain to the ideas and the guests themselves. Former Ambassador, US trade negotiator, and multiple-time author (and Democracy Nerd guest) Ira Shapiro described Jefferson as the best interlocutor Ive come across. Other repeat themes are redemption and patriotism. Why celebrate the 76th episode? Answers Smith: We arent patient enough to wait until 100. But patriotism enters into the show; Jefferson sees the United States as a redemption story. Just as to love ourselves, we have to come to grips with our own shadowto love our country, we cant just gloss over our sins. We need to come to grips with them and learn from them. To be real patriots, we need to help the nation do better. Whether or not reaching 76 episodes is a remarkable achievement for a boot-strappy operation, the number should resonate with Democracy Nerds growing audience of Democracy nerds, who regularly listen to hear the renewal of the 18th-century promise of a newborn nation standing up to the greatest tyranny of the time with a hopeful vision for the future.

As Jefferson signs off the show, Thank you for being a Democracy Nerd.

Website: https://jeffersonsmithportland.com/





Email: jeffersonsmithconsulting-at-gmail.com

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[May 08, 2023] BTQ Technologies to be Featured on Radius Research's Pitch, Deep Dive and Q&A Webinar

CEO Olivier Roussy Newton to discuss BTQ's innovative approach to quantum-safe encryption technology, which has the potential to revolutionize data security in blockchain applications and adjacent industries, including finance, healthcare, and government. VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - BTQ Technologies Inc. (NEO: BTQ) (OTCQX: BTQQF) (FSE: NG3), a global quantum technology company focused on securing mission critical networks, is pleased to invite investors and other interested parties to attend an upcoming interview with Radius Research. Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO of BTQ, and Martin Gagel of Radius will discuss the importance of quantum-safe encryption technology in ensuring the security of blockchain networks and other mission-critical systems. BTQ's COO, Nicolas Roussy Newton will also participate in the webinar, and provide deeper insight into BTQ's innovative approach to quantum-safe encryption technology, which has the potential to revolutionize data security in blockchain applications and adjacent industries, including finance, insurance, healthcare, and government. This webinar promises to provide a deeper understanding into the next generation of data security and cryptograpy, and the impact of quantum computing globally.



The webinar will be a live, interactive online event where attendees are invited to ask the Company questions in real-time following the interview. An archived webcast will be made available for those who cannot join the event live on the day of the webinar. Event: Radius Research Pitch, Deep Dive and Q&A with BTQ Technologies Corp.

Presentation Date & Time: Wednesday, May 10 at 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT Webcast Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3116831399050/WN_8sLyoWKaSAiJEIcIjksqMw If investors in attendance at either conference are interested in booking 1-1 meetings with the team, please reach out to [email protected] . About Market Radius Research Market Radius Research provides individual investors access to in-depth CEO and management interviews with deep-dive, institutional level discussion and Q&A. Market Radius' host Martin Gagel is a former top-ranked sell-side technology and special situations analyst. About BTQ BTQ was founded by a group of post-quantum cryptographers with an interest in addressing the urgent security threat posed by large-scale universal quantum computers. With the support of leading research institutes and universities, BTQ is combining software and hardware to safeguard critical networks using unique post-quantum services and solutions. Connect with BTQ: Website | LinkedIn ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Olivier Roussy Newton

CEO, Director

For further information:

E: [email protected] Bill Mitoulas

Investor Relations

T: +1.416.479.9547

E: [email protected] Neither the NEO nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE BTQ Technologies Corp.

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Tonight local Latino leaders notice their absence at an event that will shape Kansas City's future.

We've talked to more than a few leaders about this topic and most of them are honestly surprised at the clear lack of political representation.



The basics . . .

DESPITE STEADILY RISING POPULATION NUMBERS, THERE AREN'T ANY LATINOS ON KANSAS CITY'S CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION!!!

Again . . . We expect KC Hispanic News and a few other outlets to pick up the story.

However . . . Per ushe . . . TKC has the deets FIRST.



Insiders notice that leaders for KC Tenants have a spot in the discussion . . .

Wilson Vance, organizing director for KC Tenants, represents the 4th District is part of the commish.



For many, this shows that representation selected by Mayor Q was thoughtful and politically minded.

Insiders tell us:

"Is the Mayor is putting his political allegiances to KC Tenants first over Latinos who have lived & worked in Kansas City for generations?!?!"

Currently . . .



Latino leaders just now getting word of this tonight and seem to be quickly mobilizing in order to bring forward their objections.



As word circulates within the community . . .

Here is a quote from Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca on the situation:



"In the statement for the media release, Mayor Lucas said, I am proud to lead efforts toward a stronger and more representative City for all. . . BBut the fastest growing population, Latinos, were left out of the decision making process.



"For decades, well intentioned folks continued to disenfranchise the Latino community and here is another example of when we arent at the table, it creates prime opportunity for us to be on the menu. And on the menu potentially for the next decade.

"I am glad to see progressive leaders included, but we must not lose sight on the importance of representation-from the parks board to the charter commission, we deserve a seat EVERY time not just sometimes. Not just at the City, but across the city/county/etc.



"These changes will last a decade and their influence may set precedents that we should be able to help direct.



"For example, could you imagine if we reduced the amount of at-large council members to have more in-district officers-leaving minorities communities with more (possible 2 for Latinos-one for the Westside and one for the Northeast) but instead arent at the table to lead these discussions."

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Again . . .

Far more serious people than TKC are taking notice of this slight that contradictions so much talk of inclusion by the current leadership at 12th & Oak.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

KC's fast-moving charter review considers drastic changes to elections By Josh Merchant Without much fanfare, Kansas City's nine-member Charter Review Commission has been discussing changes that could make it harder to recall officials, challenge City Council votes and propose citizen initiatives. Before May 18, the commission must decide which measures to recommend to the Kansas City Council for a vote.

Kansas City, Missouri, to host listening session on possible changes to election process KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A special commission is reviewing possible changes to the way voters in Kansas City, Missouri, elect the mayor and city council members. Current Mayor Quinton Lucas appointed members to the Charter Review Commission in April. Every 10 years, the city must review its charter or constitution.

Developing . . .
SITIF is Korea's biggest and most prominent tourism event, bringing together more than 1.500 representatives of the tourism industry from 70 countries, as well as more than 70.000 Korean visitors exploring different tourist destinations

The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) was awarded the 'Best Booth Content' award at the 38th Seoul International Travel Fair (SITIF), held on May 4-7, it was reported on Monday, ANA reports.

The award was presented to GNTO for its novel and creative marketing campaign, highlighting yet again Greece's prominent position in the international tourism industry.

At the fair, GNTO welcomed thousands of Koreans interested in all popular Greek destinations, from the Greek islands to the picturesque mountains and religious sites, such as Meteora or the Paths of Saint Paul.

Many K-Pop music producers and journalists that visited the Greek Pavilion expressed their excitement about Greece and the potential cooperation in the tourism industry.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
The relaunching of works and the productive output of the Elefsina Shipyards, in Attica of Greece, "means rather a lot, because after so many years we can again secure our work, our salary and the money we thought was lost," accident prevention worker Dimitris Charitos told Athens-Macedonian News Agency (ANA-MPA) on Saturday.

Speaking to ANA-MPA on-site, Charitos added that "the feelings are those of joy, as we see hope coming for our future."

Nearly 600 people are currently employed at Elefsina shipyards, while owner company ONEX's plan predicts that in the next two years, the number of employees will double, and at some point, the number of employees may reach or even exceed 2,000.

The vast 300-acre site includes three large tanks, where work is being done to replace a large metal sheet so that one of these can again facilitate the docking of ships.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: Grb16
Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data.

Srivindhya Kolluru: Real life succession: Am I too young  and too broke  to worry about estate planning?

Experts says its always good to plan your estate, regardless of your age. Without a will, government estate laws will kick it.
Andrew Palamarchuk is a reporter with Metroland Media Toronto and toronto.com. He has been covering the crime beat since 2002 and has a passion for giving a voice to those affected by tragedy and looking at societal issues that may have contributed to it.
Jane Forrest, 17, a contemporary art student at Etobicoke School of the Arts, has curated six exhibitions, been published 35 times and won 32 awards for her work. The Grade 12 student applied to 62 post-secondary institutions and is headed to Cooper Union in New York in the fall. - Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star
Hippie therapists, a week alone in the forest: Adam Sternberghs new book The Eden Test is a domestic thriller with a twist

Sternbergh, who grew up in Toronto, has created a smart, fast-paced thriller rooted in the tiniest of domestic details and intimate uncertainty
President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed Monday that Russian forces would be defeated in Ukraine just as Nazi Germany was beaten in 1945, during an address commemorating the end of World War II.

His speech recorded at a war memorial in Kyiv comes one day ahead of Victory Day in Moscow, a Soviet war anniversary to be marked by an army parade through Red Square with security on high alert.

Ukrainian forces meanwhile said they had downed nearly three dozen Russian attack drones, spurring explosions and air raid sirens in the capital overnight.

"All the old evil that modern Russia is bringing back will be defeated just as Nazism was defeated," Zelensky said in a video at Kyiv's World War II memorial.

"Just as we destroyed evil together then, we are destroying a similar evil together now," he added.

Zelensky was speaking on the anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender to allied forces on May 8, 1945, Victory in Europe Day.

He said he had submitted a bill to parliament to formally commemorate World War II in Ukraine also on May 8, which for years was marked on May 9 like in Russia and other ex-Soviet countries.

It is the latest in a series of steps taken by Ukraine in recent years to distance itself from Moscow, including by renaming streets and towns named after Soviet figures.

Zelensky said Ukraine also mark a separate Europe Day on May 9, which promotes peace and unity on the continent.

'Always Scary'

The EU welcomed the move and said European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen would visit Kyiv for talks with Zelensky on Tuesday.

Ahead of the visit Brussels proposed a fresh round of sanctions on Russia. A spokesman said the measures would seek to tackle "the evasion of sanctions".

The Kremlin has leaned on World War II rhetoric to justify its invasion, saying in February last year it was launching the war to "de-Nazify" Ukraine.

But the Ukrainian leader said the Kremlin was responsible for "aggression and annexation, occupation and deportation," as well as "mass murder and torture".

"All of this will be answered by our victory -- the victory of Ukraine and the free world."

In Kyiv, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said Russians had overnight launched nearly 60 drones, 36 of them in the direction of the capital. The attacks wounded five people, he said.

AFP journalists saw a gutted apartment damaged by debris in the Svyatoshynsky district of the capital.

Vadym, a 47-year-old resident of the neighbourhood, said he heard air raid sirens and the shaking of his neighbouring building when the debris hit.

"We've been at war for a year. It's always scary. Not as scary as on the front line. But of course it's scary. Terrible for children," he told AFP.

Phosphorus Munitions

He said his own children had just arrived for a visit hours before the attack.

In the southern region of Odesa, officials said a Russian strike had hit a warehouse, leaving one dead and several injured.

The Russian army also targeted a village in the southern region of Kherson, wounding six civilians including a nine-year-old boy, authorities said.

In the eastern Donetsk region, Ukraine said Russian forces had deployed phosphorus munitions in Bakhmut, the epicentre of fighting for several months.

Victory Day, a key event on the Russian political calendar under President Vladimir Putin, is going ahead despite a series of recent sabotage attacks in the country.

Military parades in more than two dozen Russian cities have been cancelled over security concerns, as well as in hubs controlled by Russian forces on the annexed Crimean peninsula.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced Monday he would visit Moscow for Victory Day events despite growing frustration at home over Russia's role in Yerevan's standoff with historic rival Azerbaijan.

The leaders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are also expected to attend the celebrations in Moscow.

The Kremlin said following talks between Putin and Kyrgyzstan President Sadyr Japarov on Monday that Russia will expand its military installations in the Central Asian ally.

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Sudan's General Commander of the Armed Forces Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan said on Monday that a peaceful solution is the optimal way to resolve the current crisis in Sudan, insisting that there is no dialogue with the rival Rapid Support Forces without a ceasefire.

In a phone interview with the Egyptian Al-Qahera News channel, Lt General Al-Burhan said that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) welcomes any initiative that calls for a peaceful resolution and an end to the ongoing fighting, adding that he hopes that the conflict in Sudan will be settled through peaceful means.

Responding to a question on RSF's willingness to accept a peaceful solution, Al-Burhan said that the RSF leaders' full assessment of the risks to the Sudanese state of what is happening should "bring them back to their senses".

We welcome any initiative that saves Sudan from civil war, he said, asserting that the Sudanese army is working on guaranteeing that the conflict does not spread to other Sudanese states and provinces and does not evolve into a civil war.

Al-Burhan was then asked about the progress of the pre-negotiations talks with the RSF held in Jeddah under the auspices of Saudi Arabia and the US.

He responded that there was no talk of negotiations before a ceasefire and RSF's complete withdrawal from the residential areas in Khartoum.

Al-Burhan stated that people in all Sudanese states have rejected what the RSF forces have done, noting that all Sudanese families in Khartoum suffered severely.

He also accused RSF of occupying and looting the houses in the Sudanese capital and suspending medical services in the city.

The start of the conflict

The head of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council stated that he initially considered the (RSF) an allied force that supported the armed forces.

These forces, he added, were hence provided with weapons that must be returned to the armed forces.

Al-Burhan also revealed that the founders of the RSF, Mohamed Hamdan and his brother Abdel-Rahim, have always aspired to control all of Sudan, and they resorted to using force "after they failed to do so peacefully or through bargains.

The commander of the Sudanese army also claimed that many of the RSF fighters defected to the Sudanese Army.

Concerning the current situation in Sudan, the commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces said the situation is stable in all Sudanese states except Khartoum.

Thanking Egypt for support to Sudan

Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan thanked Egypt, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, and the Egyptian people for demonstrating solidarity -- as usual -- with the Sudanese people.

The Egyptian people are no strangers to the people of Sudan. They have a long tradition of hospitality and generosity towards the Sudanese people," Al-Burhan said, adding that Egyptians have always been closer to the people of Sudan during times of crisis.

Egypt has received over 60,000 refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan since the start of the war in mid-April.

Al-Burhan also thanked Saudi Arabia for hosting the current round of talks with the RSF in Saudi Arabia, stressing that the delegation in Jeddah, which includes diplomats among its members, represents not only the Sudanese Armed Forces but the whole Sudanese state.

"We do not want a partial ceasefire that stops the fighting for a limited period, gives legitimacy to a certain party, and ignores the concerns and needs of the citizens," he noted.

In conclusion, the commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces stressed that initiatives launched by Arab and African states are better than other initiatives since these states are better acquainted with Sudan.

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Police officers were out in their numbers.. at the TTPS Sports Day today.., after a three-ye
The UAE evacuated on Sunday, May 7th, 178 people from war-torn Sudan on the fifth evacuation flight amid the ongoing conflict.

The 5th evacuation flight arrived today, as the #UAE continues to prioritize the most vulnerable including the sick, children, elderly, and women, as the top of its priorities. Among those evacuated today was a Sudanese child who was injured by a bullet in the ongoing clashes in pic.twitter.com/wvu4thnp61  Afra Al Hameli (@AfraMalHameli) May 7, 2023

This move comes under the directives of the Gulf nation's leadership as part of the UAE's commitments to humanitarian assistance and strengthening global cooperation and solidarity.

The initiative will contribute to international relief efforts and help ease the humanitarian suffering caused by the fighting in Sudan.

The passengers on the latest flight were from seven countries. So far, it has evacuated the citizens of about 24 different countries.

The sick, children, the elderly, and women were given priority during the evacuations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

The UAE will host the evacuees and provide them with support and care before being sent to their home countries.

UAE has also given interim care to residents of Port Sudan who are stranded there amid efforts to arrange their evacuation.

Image source: @MoFAICUAE Twitter account.
The aggressor state often chooses symbolic dates for provocations so Russias security agencies could be plotting them for May 9 on the territory of both the Russian Federation and Belarus.

Thats according to a Ukrainian military intelligence (GUR) spokesman, Andrii Yusov, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, Ukrinform reports citing the agency's press service.

"Since 2014, the occupiers have been using this kind of provocation, and it is possible that we will see one now. In this situation, provocations can be orchestrated by the Russian special services, targeting the Russian civilian population and timed to certain dates, for example, May 9," GUR spokesman said.

At the same time, Yusov suggested that the Russians could also plot provocations targeting Belarus: such a false flag operation on the part of Russia could be aimed at drawing the Belarusian army into a war against Ukraine.

"No one, neither in Ukraine nor in the rest of the world, will believe in such spectacles anymore. Although this doesnt mean there will be no provocations," GUR official emphasized.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, six Russian regions, the temporarily occupied Crimea, and 21 cities canceled the May 9 Victory Day parades citing security reasons.
During a working visit to Chisinau, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine Mykola Solskyi expressed disagreement with Moldova's decision to limit the import of grain and oil crops from Ukraine.

As the Ministrys press service informs, Solskyi made a corresponding statement during a meeting with Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova Vladimir Bolya.

"The minister went to Moldova after the Moldovan side announced its intention to temporarily take measures regarding the import of grain and oil crops from Ukraine as some EU countries have done before. Solskyi expressed his disagreement with such Moldovas decision," the statement reads.

During the meeting, Minister Solskyi also noted that the grounds for such a decision are unclear because Ukraine does not import these crops to the Republic of Moldova.

Read also: Moldova intends to restrict imports of Ukrainian agricultural products

Bolya assured that the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products through Moldova will be carried out in full. Negotiations will continue.

On May 5, Bolya announced Moldova's intention to introduce temporary restrictions on the import of grain and oil crops from Ukraine at his meeting with Head of the EU Delegation to Moldova Janis Mazeiks.

Earlier, the European Commission adopted exceptional and temporary preventive measures on imports of a limited number of products from Ukraine to five EU Member States: Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. The measures concern only four agricultural products  wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seed  originating in Ukraine.
In response to the restrictions imposed by Moldova on Ukrainian agricultural exports, the Government is preparing a resolution banning Moldovan imports.

"We informed Chisinau that any restriction imposed by Moldova will be considered an extremely unfriendly step and will entail an immediate ban on all imports from Moldova," Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture  Trade Representative of Ukraine Taras Kachka told the Yevropeiska Pravda online media outlet, Ukrinform reports.

According to him, the imposition of such a ban has already been agreed upon and preparations are underway.

As reported, On May 5, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova Vladimir Bolya announced Moldova's intention to introduce temporary restrictions on the import of grain and oil crops from Ukraine at his meeting with Head of the EU Delegation to Moldova Janis Mazeiks.

Earlier, the European Commission adopted exceptional and temporary preventive measures on imports of a limited number of products from Ukraine to five EU Member States: Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. The measures concern only four agricultural products  wheat, corn, rapeseed and sunflower seed  originating in Ukraine.
The High Representative of the European Union, Josep Borrell, had a phone call with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Hossein Amir Abdollahian.

Thats according to Borrells tweet, seen by Ukrinform.

"In call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abdollahian, I strongly condemned execution of Swedish-Iranian national Habib Chaab and asked Iran not to execute German-Iranian Jamshid Sharmahd," he wrote.

In addition, the parties discussed cooperation between Tehran and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

"I stressed that Iran must continue this, end support to Russias war against UA, and stop instrumentalising EU nationals," Borrell said.

As reported earlier, EU High Representative Josep Borrell said Sunday that Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine had united the Transatlantic alliance.

In February 2023, John Kirby, the White House National Security Council Coordinator, said relations in the military sphere between the Russian Federation and Iran were only deepening, and now there are clear signs that both countries seek to share military technology.

This means that concerns about the security and stability of the Middle East are increasing.

Theres no doubt Russia continues to get drones from Iran, official said.

Russia has been widely using Shahed-type one-way attack drones, launching them massively at various regions of Ukraine.

In the past night alone, 35 such drones were downed by Ukraines air defense forces.
Canada and Great Britain are ready to continue providing comprehensive support to Ukraine to repel Russias aggression.

This was reported by the office of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau following his conversation with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The prime ministers discussed Russia's illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine and confirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to Trudeau's office.

It is noted that the interlocutors discussed the need for further coordination of efforts to rebuild Ukraine, as well as expressed concern about the aftermath of Russia's actions for the Global South and agreed to continue promoting initiatives to help those who have suffered the most, together with the G7 allies.

As reported, the next Ukraine Recovery Conference will take place in London in June.
The Indian Secretary Minister for External Affairs, Ausaf Sayeed, highlights in an interview with Ahram Online the significance of President Abdelfattah El-Sisi's visit to India in January, which helped upgrade the relationship between both countries to a strategic partnership.

Sayeed has had an extensive career as a diplomat, including serving as the Indian ambassador to Yemen and Saudi Arabia. He believes India and Egypt's partnership will allow the pursuit of cooperation in fields such as security, defense, economy, and political relations in a more focused manner.

Sayeed also shared that the Indian Prime Minister is eager to visit Egypt, and the Egyptian Health Minister is scheduled to visit India in June. Furthermore, he mentioned that Indian companies may be interested in investing in the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE).



Ahram Online: How do you view bilateral relations between Egypt and India in the last few years and especially after President Abdelfattah El-Sisi's visit to New Delhi last January?

Ausaf Sayeed: The relations have been progressing very well, especially in the last couple of years. Last year we had serious visits from the Indian side, where the Indian Defense Minister, the Foreign Affairs Minister and the minister of forest and environment visited Egypt. On the other hand, the IT Egyptian minister visited India, but most important of all was the visit of President El-Sisi to India to attend, upon the Indian Prime Minister's invitation, the Indian public day. The significance was that the two leaders upgraded relations to a strategic partnership, and opened opportunities for focused cooperation in security, defense, economy, and politics. Further consolidation will be vital.



AO: How can Indian investments in Egypt be further enhanced?

AS: The current Indian investment volume is $3.5 billion, and a further $800 million is in the pipeline. Many of these investments are in the manufacturing sector and they have created about 38,000 jobs in Egypt. Also, there are further investments in the pipeline in the renewable energy sector. Of course, one of the good proposals that has come out from the Egyptian side is to have Indian investments in the SCZONE, so we are looking at this and this will be very important, and this idea was presented during President El-Sisi's visit to India, with Indian companies. There were discussions about the SCZONE, so we will promote this to the business sector in India so that Indian companies can make use of this offer and this great opportunity.

AO: How can we enhance cooperation in the field of renewable energy and green hydrogen?

AS: Renewable energy is a very important field, as far as Indian companies are concerned three to four companies have expressed interest in this field of cooperation. Lately, they were signing an agreement for $18 billion for green hydrogen with Egypt, so I think there are great opportunities in this field as Egypt is a very suitable country for investing in renewable energy and we encourage that.

AO: Are there more visits coming from both sides?

AS: There is a coming visit by the Egyptian ministry of health to India mid-June. It is a very important visit as healthcare and pharmaceuticals are very important sectors. Also, there will be a foreign ministers' meeting soon.

AO: Are there arrangements for a visit by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi?

AS: The Indian Prime Minister was supposed to visit Egypt in 2020 but unfortunately because of Corona many plans had to be changed. And when President El-Sisi was in Delhi he reextended the invitation and the Indian Prime Minister affirmed that he would like to visit Egypt soon. This year there are many things happening in India such as the Shanghai cooperation organisation meeting which will be held in July and then we have the G20 summit meeting in September. But the Indian Prime Minister is keen to visit Egypt.

AO: How can both Egypt and India cooperate to decrease the negative economic effects of the Russian-Ukraine war?

AS: Both countries are cooperating in various fields like the food sector, wheat supplies, fertiliser supplies, and energy supplies, and all of this cooperative effort is to reduce the negative effect of the Russian-Ukraine war on the economy. India had limited wheat exports but upon Egypt's request as a friendly country, there was special permission given to export wheat to Egypt. Currently, we are negotiating Egyptian fertiliser exports to India in the coming future.

AO: Are there any plans to enhance cooperation in the pharmaceutical field between the two countries?

AS: I think this is one of the biggest areas of cooperation because India has been recognised globally as the pharmacy of the world. We have a lot of vaccine manufacturing not only COVID but also other vaccines, so I see possibilities for Egypt and India to join hands in the manufacturing of vaccine facilities. There are negotiations already taking place in this field and I think the visit of the Egyptian Health Minister to India in June will further discuss this cooperation. There could also be cooperation in the field of managing hospitals.

AO: India took many steps forward in the field of IT, so will there be more cooperation in this field with Egypt?

AS: During the visit of the Egyptian IT information technology minister there were several discussions about enhancing cooperation in that field, and also about startup companies.

AO: India is currently the head of the G20 this year so how can it enable the south voice to be more heard during its presidency?

AS: India organised the voice of the south summit where almost 125 countries from the south were invited to try to understand from them their areas of concern. It was the first time for them and we listened to a lot of ideas from them that are very beneficial.

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The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and other UN humanitarian agencies visited the Egyptian-Sudanese Qustul border crossing on Monday to meet with those who have recently fled to Egypt from Sudan due to the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces.





According to the UNHCR, the delegation discussed the needs of those who crossed the borders and the best ways to provide support in collaboration with Egyptian authorities.

It met with Egyptian and Sudanese officials on both sides of the border to discuss their needs and how to address them.

According to the latest numbers provided by the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to UNHCR, around 70,000 people have crossed into Egypt  including 65,104 Sudanese and 4,876 third-country nationals  between 15 April and 7 May.

More than 1,400 individuals fleeing Sudan have approached UNHCR to register as refugees.

The UN refugee agency said it would provide them with expedited registration and pre-registration services based on their vulnerability profiles so that they can access services available to refugees and asylum-seekers through UNHCR and its partners in Egypt.

The UN mission consisted of representatives from various organizations, including Hanan Hamdan, the UNHCR Egypt Representative, Ambassador Neveen El-Hosseiny from the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jeremy Hopkins, the UNICEF Representative, Naeema Al-Gasser, the WHO Representative, Praveen Agrawal, the WFP Representative, Sylvain Merlen, the UNDP Deputy Representative, and Bernard El-Douahi, the Programme Manager at IOM Egypt.

Meanwhile, Egypt continued its efforts to evacuate a new batch of stranded Egyptians and foreigners of different nationalities from Port Sudan on board the Egyptian warship Halayeb.

According to Al-Qahera News Channel, the evacuation process from war-ridden Sudan is proceeding peacefully.

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ANKARA, May 8 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th May, 2023 ) :At least 22 people died after a tourist boat capsized in Malappuram district of India's southern state of Kerala, officials said Monday.

The incident happened Sunday evening off the coastal town of Tanur and a rescue operation was immediately launched, according to local authorities.

"We have recovered 22 bodies, which include women and children. The rescue operation is still ongoing," Moosa Vadakkethil, a senior fire official in Malappuram, told Anadolu by phone.

"This boat capsized Sunday evening and the survivors told us that it was overcrowded," Moosa said, adding there were more than 30 people onboard and many were rescued alive.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said he has directed the district administration to coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet ministers.

"Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends," he wrote on Twitter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap.

"Condolences to the bereaved families," Modi said while announcing compensation to the next of kin of each victim.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Cambodia, May 8 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th May, 2023 ) :Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event was to mark the annual beginning of the farming season, and royal oxen were used to plough and predict agricultural yields and weather in the year.

Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni presided over the elaborate ceremony held in central Kampong Thom province's Kampong Svay district, attracting thousands of local visitors.

At the event, King Sihamoni assigned Kampong Thom Provincial Governor Nguon Ratanak as the King of the ploughing ceremony and the governor's wife, Hong Phanny, as the Queen of the sowing ceremony.

The assigned King ploughed the rice field by using royal oxen and the designated Queen sowed seeds on the furrow as the symbol of planting.

After three rounds of ploughing across the field, the oxen were offered seven plates of food: rice, corn, green bean, sesame, water, fresh-cut grass, and wine.

The oxen had rice, corn, and green bean, and a court soothsayer predicted that the three kinds of crops would give high yields this year.

"The royal oxen ate 95 percent of rice, corn, and green bean," Kang Keng, chief of the soothsayers at the Royal Palace, said.

"This is just a prediction based on the custom of the royal ploughing ceremony that has existed since an ancient time," he said. "This ceremony is also to announce that the agricultural season has come."As an agrarian country with a population of 16 million, agriculture created 3.12 million jobs and contributed about 24 percent to the kingdom's economy, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries.
BEIJING (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2023) Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang, during a meeting with US Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, called on Washington to stop supporting separatist forces in Taiwan.

"(The US) should properly approach the Taiwan issue ...

stop supporting and condoning the separatist forces of 'Taiwan independence'," Qin Gang said as quoted by China Central Television (CCTV) on Monday.

The foreign minister also pointed out to Washington the need to respect China's "red lines" and stop violating its sovereignty, security and development interests.
KURGAN (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2023) Russian Minister of Civil Defense, Emergencies and Disaster Relief Alexander Kurenkov said on Monday after a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin that the government would provide support to all citizens affected by the fires in Russia's Kurgan Region.

Earlier on Monday, Kurenkov visited the region, where an emergency situation regime was introduced due to wildfires.

"Vladimir Vladimirovich (Putin) said that we will definitely help everyone," Kurenkov told reporters.

On Sunday, large-scale fires broke out in a number of settlements in the Kurgan Region.

As a result of the fire, 3 people died, but the exact number of deaths is being established.

The regional department of the Emergencies Ministry said that six out of nine landscape fires had been localized, and one had been completely extinguished. In addition, three out of four active forest fires were also localized, while eight more fires were extinguished over the past day. At least 1,290 people and 332 units of equipment, including aviation, are engaged in extinguishing the fire in the region.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns the looting of a World Food Program (WFP) compound in Khartoum, spokesman Farhan Haq said on Monday

UNITED NATIONS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2023) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns the looting of a World food Program (WFP) compound in Khartoum, spokesman Farhan Haq said on Monday.

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns the looting of the main compound with the World Food Program in Khartoum over the weekend," Haq during a press briefing.

The looting marks the latest violation of the premises of humanitarian facilities in Sudan since the crisis began in mid-April, the official noted, adding that almost all UN agencies operating in the country have been affected by "large-scale looting."

Guterres calls on the warring parties to ensure the protection of humanitarian workers, and respect the facilities they work in, including hospitals, Haq continued.

"The needs of the Sudanese people who are caught up in a humanitarian catastrophe must come first," Haq said, adding that the UN in cooperation with other partners are looking for ways in which they can increase their relief operations.

Haq added that 20 healthcare facilities have so far received over 100,000 liters of water, sanitation, and hygiene support.

Since last month, Sudan has been gripped by intense fighting between the armed forces and the rival paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces, with the epicenter in Khartoum.
Jack Teixeira, the 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guardsman arrested in connection with the leak of classified US military documents, will appear in court for a detention hearing on Thursday, according to a notice filed Monday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2023) Jack Teixeira, the 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guardsman arrested in connection with the leak of classified US military documents, will appear in court for a detention hearing on Thursday, according to a notice filed Monday.

Teixeria will appear in the US District Court for the District of Massachusetts in Worcester on Thursday, May 11 at 2:00 p.m. ET (18:00 GMT) before Magistrate Judge David Hennessy, the notice said.

The United States arrested and charged Teixeira last month with unauthorized removal and transmission of national defense information, following the leak of more than 100 classified documents online.

Teixeira is being held without bail pending a decision on his detention.

Prosecutors are seeking to keep Teixeira behind bars prior to his trial, while the defense team is attempting to get him released with certain conditions, a court document filed late last month said.

Teixeira is accused of leaking documents related to the conflict in Ukraine, the United States' espionage activities against its partners and other national security matters.

The leaks prompted probes by the Justice Department and Pentagon into the source of the sensitive materials, as well as classified document access and handling protocols.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

US sanctions on Chinese tech firms are driving them to advance research to develop artificial intelligence (AI) without relying on state-of-the-art US semiconductors, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing research papers and interviews with employees

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2023) US sanctions on Chinese tech firms are driving them to advance research to develop artificial intelligence (AI) without relying on state-of-the-art US semiconductors, The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday, citing research papers and interviews with employees.

The report said that Chinese companies are seeking ways that could make it possible to achieve high-level AI performance with fewer or weaker chips. They are also reportedly studying how to fuse different types of chips to avoid dependence on only one type of hardware.

Some major Chinese tech firms, including telecom giant Huawei Technologies, search company Baidu and e-commerce company Alibaba Group Holding, are reportedly looking into methods to eke out more performance out of existing chips.

The newspaper argues that using such techniques to overtake US leaders in AI development remains a serious challenge for the United States.

There have been some promising experiments and, if developed successfully, the technology could allow Chinese tech firms to withstand US restrictions and grow more resilient to any future sanctions, the report said.

In August 2022, US President Joe Biden signed an executive order to implement the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, which includes more than $52 billion in subsidies for US semiconductor manufacturers in an effort to counter China's growing technological clout.

Moreover, in October, the Biden administration expanded control on the export of US semiconductor technology to 28 Chinese companies to restrict Beijing's ability to make certain high-end microchips used in military applications.
By Tina Meketa, University Communications and Marketing

As the construction dust clears from the Judy Genshaft Honors College building, its immaculate design symbolizes the hundreds of talented individuals who brought the state-of-the-art facility to life.

Since its groundbreaking in late 2020, nearly 80 businesses have worked on the five story, 85,000-square-foot building  about half are diverse-owned with an estimated spend on contracts exceeding $11 million.

Our goal was to have 30 percent utilization of diverse-owned firms on the Judy Genshaft Honors College building. So, the fact that we far exceeded that goal is a great example of if we work together of what can be done together, said Terrie Daniel, assistant vice president of the USF Office of Supplier Diversity.

Woman-owned Level Line Interiors installed the metal framing and drywall, the ensemble acoustic lobby ceiling  which optimizes sound absorption  and the fiber-reinforced concrete panels on the buildings interior walls.

The Honors College was like no other job we have worked on  beautiful and unique and filled with challenges, which our company thrives on, said Stephanie Schoenberg, who owns Level Line Interiors with her husband, Don. The buildings design, with all the curved walls, glass openings and multiple wall finishes brought a new challenge every day, and that was very fulling to see it all come together.

Founded in 1994, Level Line Interiors has about 20 employees and has secured contracts to work on other USF projects, such as the Marshall Student Center and Osprey Suites on the USF St. Petersburg campus.

Diverse-owned Evolve Mechanical Services also worked on Osprey Suites and its dining hall and installed the HVAC system in the Judy Genshaft Honors College building. Founder Reggie Clark employs 14 technicians, including a Vietnam War veteran.

"I'm proud to be part of this project. Over the last few months, our team has worked diligently to complete the installation of the facility's new HVAC system," Clark said. "We are excited to see the entire finished product and to know that we've played a role in it."

Several USF alums are at the core of construction of the new Judy Genshaft Honors College building, which is funded in part by a $20 million gift from USF President Emerita and Professor Judy Genshaft and her husband Steve Greenbaum.

Woman-owned Ceco Concrete Construction poured the concrete foundation, columns, walls, beams and slabs. District manager Chad Anast has been with the company for more than 15 years and earned his executive Master of Business Administration degree from USF in 2021.

I was very excited to be back on campus working on an iconic project with some of my former classmates right next to where we went to class, Anast said.

Cableytics owner Floyd Freeman is also an alum, graduating in 1996 with a degree in electrical engineering. His team installed public safety Distributed Antenna Systems throughout the Judy Genshaft Honors College building, which boosts police and fire radios. The diverse-owned business landed the contract while participating in the USF Mentor Protege Program  developed in partnership with Skanska to support the Tampa Bay regions diverse-owned small businesses in the construction industry.

The USF Office of Supplier Diversity will soon welcome its third cohort for the mentor program. Participants will be selected based on recommendations from community partners, such as the Hillsborough County NAACP, Prospera, the Womens Business Enterprise Council Florida, Inclusive St. Pete and the Manasota Black Chamber of Commerce.

Applications will be accepted May 15-June 16 with the next class beginning in August. You can register here to learn more about how to sign up for the program and receive notifications about future Office of Supplier Diversity events or USF purchasing opportunities.
Wyoming Family Continues UW Legacy Through Business Deanship

The towering legacy of a Wyoming family has been further honored with the creation of a deanship in the University of Wyoming College of Business -- the H.A. Dave True Jr. Family College of Business Deanship.

I believe UW and our state need to have a strong business school because we need the skill and the economic mindset, says Dave True, who is a trustee of the university, co-owner of True companies and a son of H.A. Dave True Jr.

Im also passionate about the state, Dave continues. We are just a great place. People in the state of Wyoming are just good, down-to-earth people. The values and legacy of our state need to be reflected in the university.

The purpose of the True Deanship is to enrich the business climate within the state by supporting the dean of the UW College of Business and the colleges education, research and outreach. Funds can be used to recruit and help retain top talent and to foster excellence and address critical needs and priorities of the College of Business.

The University of Wyoming is truly grateful not only for this remarkable gift of a deanship in the College of Business and the chair before that, but also for the years of dedicated service of Dave True and all the members of the True family to UW and also to the state, says UW President Ed Seidel. The legacy of the True family is one of dedicated service and entrepreneurial spirit, and we are incredibly thankful.

The True family was inspired to establish this deanship because of the H.A. Dave True Jr. Chair in Petroleum and Natural Gas Economics that they already had established within the College of Business and because many of them have a connection to the college.

We have a family legacy with the University of Wyoming -- four generations, Dave says.

The True family also was motivated by the deanship in the UW College of Education that was established by the John P. Jack Ellbogen Foundation.

The True Deanship is now the universitys third named deanship, after the Ellbogen Deanship in Education and the Carrell Family Dean in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

The True family name is indelibly etched in the history, economy and culture of Wyoming, says Kevin Carman, provost and executive vice president of UW. It is an honor to now have the True name linked in perpetuity with excellence in the UW College of Business.

For 75 years, the extended family of Wyoming wildcatter H.A. Dave True Jr. has been actively engaged in oil and gas, ranching, building companies and supporting communities.

For example, established in 1957, True Ranches has been raising beef cattle while expanding acreage and operating feedlots. Companies such as True Oil, the Belle Fourche Pipeline and Toolpushers Supply in the oil and gas industry have been performing exploration and development of oil and gas resources while supporting the industry as a whole.

Today, this network of companies -- in trucking, pipelines, oil services, purchasing, finance, environment and ranching -- employs more than 1,000 people throughout the United States.

Last but not least, members of the True family have volunteered their time and resources to support their communities, including UW through the Double 4 Foundation and, previously, the True Foundation.

The Trues have served as trustees of the university for many years. The elder True served as trustee from 1965-77, and sons Hank and Dave served from 1995-2007 and 2013-present, respectively. All three served as board president.

The True family also has supported UW through philanthropy. Before creating this deanship, the family established the H.A. Dave True Jr. Chair in Petroleum and Natural Gas Economics in 2004.

The True Deanship will have a transformative impact on our students, programs and faculty, says Scott Beaulier, dean of the College of Business. We are grateful to the True family for their visionary leadership and investment in the future of the College of Business.

The purpose of the True Chair was and is an endowed faculty position in oil and gas economics who is a leader and spokesperson in forging a path for better understanding of economics of Wyoming oil and gas through research, teaching and outreach to state policy makers, the oil and gas industry, and other stakeholders.

In 2007, the inaugural True Chair was awarded to Charles Chuck Mason, UW professor of petroleum and natural gas economics, and Mason still serves in this role today. This chair will continue to support Mason through his tenure, and then funds will be transitioned to the True Deanship while also continuing support of petroleum and natural gas economics at UW and throughout the state.

We try to stress the importance of natural resources to the state and to mankind, Dave says. We need a dependable, readily available, affordable source of energy.

This legacy began with the hard work of H.A. Dave True Jr., who was born in 1915 in Cheyenne. He grew up in the Rocky Mountain West and then settled in Cody with his wife, Jean. He worked for Texaco -- formerly Texas Co. -- before moving to Casper to work for and then buy out the company Reserve Drilling, a one-rig drilling contracting firm. This became True Drilling.

In the years that followed, the Trues founded and/or operated a number of companies -- True Oil, True Ranches, Belle Fourche Pipeline, Toolpushers Supply, Eighty Eight Oil (formerly Black Hills Oil Marketers), Black Hills Trucking, Equitable Oil Purchasing and Hilltop National Bank.

A strong motivator for H.A. Dave True Jr. was to give back of his talents and worth, says the True family in a statement. He spent years contributing his time and efforts to this state and the industries which had been so good to him. He provided service to his church, community, state and nation.

True was known as a quiet family man, an optimist and a hard worker -- he worked seven days a week. He also was a big-picture leader and the consummate entrepreneur, said a former dean of the College of Business when True was inducted into the inaugural class of the Wyoming Business Hall of Fame.

True and Jean were partners in every way, their sons report. Together, the Trues had four children -- Tamma True-Hatten, H.A. Hank True III, Diemer True and David L. True. The elder True passed away unexpectedly in 1994 but, since then, the next generation of Trues have assumed leadership of the companies and also continue the legacy of service to their communities.

H.A. Dave True Jr. strongly believed in the essence of the Code of the West. When Dave first heard the elements of the Code of the West, he thought, Dad could have written that.

Inscribed on a historical marker at the Salt Creek Oil Field is a quote from True: I have always considered integrity and ethics to be the most important part of a business decision. Our goal has always been to make every deal on such terms and in such a manner that next week, next year or five years from now, we can go back and deal with those same people again.
The Egyptian and Indian air forces conducted an air exercise at an Egyptian airbase, aimed at strengthening military cooperation between the two countries, the Egyptian Armed Forces announced on Monday.

The training involved several joint flights, including practice in aerial refuelling, allowing for the exchange of training experiences between both sides.

The exercise demonstrated the high level of professionalism the air force fighters achieved, qualifying them for various missions according to the Egyptian statement.

Egyptian and Indian air forces previously conducted a joint exercise in Egypt in November 2021.

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How the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism Impacts Vietnam

Vietnam may face export challenges due to the impact of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). However, this could also motivate Vietnam to hasten the pace of change towards achieving its carbon neutrality goals by establishing uniform standards and domestic obligations for affected industries.

The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) was legislated by the European Parliament on April 18, 2023. The CBAM, which will be implemented during a three-year transition period, between October this year and January 2026, will essentially levy a Carbon Border Tax (CBT) on certain carbon-intensive imports into the EU.

This concerns some developing economies, as it could harm enterprise competitiveness. Vietnam, Europes third-largest export market, may be impacted greatly. CBAM could force Vietnamese enterprises to adjust their production processes, which may be costly, but it could also help the country reach its net-zero commitment sooner.

What is CBAM?

The EUs Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism or CBAM is an integral part of the EUs larger Fit for 55 program.

This program aims to place a price on carbon released during the manufacture of carbon-intensive commodities entering the EU. It is also intended to stimulate cleaner industrial output in non-EU countries.

By placing a carbon price on specific imports into the EU from countries that do not have a carbon tax at an EU-approved level, the EU can also ensure the competitiveness of European manufacturers.

The EU hopes the CBAM will inspire other countries to implement national carbon pricing systems that link to the EUs emissions trading scheme (ETS) in a bid to avoid CBAM payments.

When will CBAM come into force?

The CBAM transition period will begin on October 1, 2023. From this time, the CBAM will initially apply only to selected products from the most carbon-intensive heavy industries. This includes iron, steel, cement, aluminum, fertilizer, electricity, and hydrogen.

Note that the CBAMs scope might also be expanded to include a greater range of products and services in the future.

CBAM is expected to be permanent from January 1, 2026. At this time, importers must disclose the volume of commodities included in the CBAM scheme imported into the EU in the previous year, as well as their greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). If they do not meet the criteria for a CBAM exemption, they must then pay tax on the attached GHGs.

It is expected that, by 2034, CBAM will be fully operational. The progressive implementation of the CBAM is timed to coincide with the phase-out of free allowance allocations under the EUs ETS to aid in the decarbonization of EU industries.

CBAM impact on Vietnam

Vietnams exports to the EU market

CBAM has a direct impact on the four main industries of Vietnam, namely iron and steel, cement, fertilizer, and aluminum.

It is estimated that CBAM will reduce the export turnover to the EU of these industries by up to US$100 million

The CBT would essentially increase prices, thereby reducing the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports, and subsequently demand in the EU market. Iron and steel are the most affected items, followed by aluminum based on Vietnams export volume to the EU market.

Between 2017 and 2021, the EU accounted for 12 percent of Vietnamese total steel exports, equivalent to US$1.1 billion per year, followed by aluminum accounting for US$48 million. In 2022, the EUs iron and steel import turnover from Vietnam reached US$2.1 billion, while the figure for aluminum was US$65.18 million.

However, Vietnams overall exports to the EU will not suffer as severely in the short term as those of other developing countries such as India. This is because Vietnamese items subjected to the CBT account for only a small proportion of Vietnams total exports to Europe.

In the long run, however, the scope of the CBAM could be extended to cover indirect emissions and other sectors and carbon-intensive products. Depending on the price put on the carbon produced by products imported into the EU, this may negate the benefits of the European-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.

Furthermore, after the CBAM is enacted, a chain reaction could occur as other markets, such as the United States, Japan, and Korea, introduce their own mechanisms to reduce GHGs on imports.

Vietnams manufacturing industry

The CBAM requires Vietnamese exporters to adopt solutions to minimize greenhouse gas emissions during manufacturing. However, businesses face challenges in reducing emissions and meeting criteria to avoid the carbon tax.

Moreover, the awareness of Vietnams enterprises in general regarding the European green standard and CBAM is quite limited.

According to a survey in 2022, only 11 percent of companies understood the CBAMs content, while 53 percent were unaware of the mechanism

Vietnams carbon-neutral goal

The CBAM legislation is an opportunity to accelerate Vietnams net-zero by-2050 commitment.

The CBAM is not applicable to imports from countries with an ETS that meets EU standards. Therefore, there is an added incentive for Vietnam to quickly set up a carbon pricing system.

The adoption of the CBAM may also incentivize investment in low-carbon, energy-efficient and renewable technologies. In this respect, Vietnam can take advantage of an abundance of natural renewable energy resources to decarbonize the electricity sector, and subsequently reduce GHGs of the wider economy.

Notably, Vietnam and the International Partnership Group (IPG) signed the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) agreement last year, with US$15.5 billion on the table for Vietnams clean energy transition.

The added motivation from the CBAM may help these initiatives to be more effective and their implementation to be smoother.

See also: Progress Report: Vietnams Carbon Market

Mitigating the impact of the CBAM

For legislators

The Vietnamese government needs to have a detailed and specific roadmap and documents to guide businesses to approach CBAM proactively. Tax incentives or credit incentive packages can be effective solutions to support businesses to convert to cleaner production technology.

A carbon pricing mechanism and Vietnams carbon credit market need to be established. A carbon pricing mechanism would not only reduce carbon emissions in the production process but may also serve as a foundation for trade negotiations with the EU in relation to the CBAM on imported goods. At the same time, part of the tax exporters would have paid to the EU will stay in the country and can be put toward reducing Vietnams carbon emissions.

A dialogue should be opened with the EU to clarify regulations and minimize the negative impacts on Vietnamese businesses and the manufacturing industry.

For businesses

Businesses must closely monitor the CBAMs progress and prepare a proactive response plan that minimizes the impact on their export activities and production.

Companies that produce items taxed by the EU should assess the carbon emissions in the production process and adjust their emissions to levels permitted by the EU.

Businesses should work closely with the government to adopt decarbonization policies, such as pricing carbon and promoting the use of renewable energy. This will assist firms in reducing emissions throughout the manufacturing process.

Conclusion

The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism legislation in general, and the carbon border tax, in particular, will be a challenge for developing countries like Vietnam. It is clear that the CBAM will be an obstacle for Vietnamese exporters in the medium term, and that export turnover may decrease as a result.

Nonetheless, looking at the bright side, this may be a motivating factor for businesses to gradually control the amount of carbon they release and switch to using renewable energy in their production lines.
A picturesque tourist destination will host crisis-weary Southeast Asian leaders with sun-splashed tropical islands, turquoise waters brimming with corals and manta rays, seafood feasts, and a hillside savannah crawling with Komodo dragons.

The sunshiny setting is a stark contrast to the seriousness of their agenda.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo picked the far-flung, rustic harbor town of Labuan Bajo as a laidback venue to discuss an agenda rife with contentious issues. These include the continuing bloody civil strife in Myanmar and the escalating territorial conflicts in the South China Sea between fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The 10-nation regional bloc and its member states will meet for three days starting Tuesday, with the growing rivalry between the United States and China as a backdrop.

U.S. President Joe Biden has been reinforcing an arc of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to better counter China over Taiwan and the long-seething territorial conflicts in the strategic South China Sea which involve four ASEAN members: Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. Indonesia, this year's ASEAN chair, has also confronted Chinese fishing fleets and coast guard that have strayed into what Jakarta says was its internationally recognized exclusive economic zone in the gas-rich Natuna Sea.

Widodo, who's in his final year on the world stage as he reaches the end of his two-term limit, said ASEAN aims to collaborate with any country to solve problems through dialogue.

That includes Myanmar where, two years after the military power grab that forced out Aung San Suu Kyi's administration and sparked a bloody civil strife, ASEAN has failed to rein in the violence in its member state. A five-point peace plan by ASEAN leaders and the top Myanmar general, which calls for an immediate stop to killings and other violence and the start of a national dialogue, has been disregarded by Myanmar's ruling military.

ASEAN stopped inviting Myanmar's military leaders to its semiannual summits and would only allow non-political representatives to attend. Myanmar has protested the move.

In an additional concern involving Myanmar, Indonesian officials said Sunday that 20 of their nationals, who were trafficked into Myanmar and forced to perform cyber scams, had been freed from Myanmar's Myawaddy township and brought to the Thai border over the weekend. During the summit, ASEAN leaders planned to express their concern over such human trafficking schemes in a joint statement, a draft copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said her country, as ASEAN chair, has tackled the Myanmar crisis in a non-adversarial way.

"Colleagues certainly know that in the early stages of its leadership, Indonesia decided to take a non-megaphone diplomacy approach," Marsudi said. "The aim is to provide space for the parties to build trust and for the parties to be more open in communicating."

Widodo's choice of a seaside venue with stunning sunrises and sunsets and the sound of birds chirping all day complements that approach.

The Indonesian leader also hoped the high-profile ASEAN summit would put Labuan Bajo and outlying islands, dotted with white-sand beaches and even a rare pink-sand beach, under the global tourism spotlight.

"This is a very good moment for us to host the ASEAN summit and showcase Labuan Bajo to the world," said Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who flew in Sunday with his wife to a red-carpet welcome flanked by military honor guards and dancing villagers with flower-filled headwear.

But there are a few hitches.

The far-flung fishing town with only three traffic lights and about 6,000 residents is acutely short of hotels for ASEAN's swarm of diplomats, delegates and journalists. Many had to arrange to share rooms.

Unlike the more popular Bali resort island or the bustling concrete jungle of a capital Jakarta, which has hosted international conclaves in upscale hotels and convention centers, Labuan Bajo is a far smaller town that a visitor could cross from end to end with a brisk two-hour walk. There are no public buses, and villagers mostly move around by walking, riding scooters or driving private cars.

A small team of local technicians with hard hats were flown in to lay cables and expand internet connections at the venues on short notice.

On Sunday, Labuan Bajo's small airport was jampacked with visitors. Teams of diplomats and journalists arrived to welcome streamers announcing the upbeat summit motto, "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth."

Outside the airport named after the Komodo dragons, traffic quickly built up under the brutal noontime sun.

When the sun rose Monday morning, workers were still cementing some roadsides around the venues  a day before the summit opening.

Andre Kurniawan, who works at a dive center in Labuan Bajo, said the infrastructure developments would be a boon for Labuan Bajo villagers. "We were isolated from some areas before and now they are open and the areas are getting better. I hope that Labuan Bajo can be a better tourist town in the future," he said.

Azril Azahari, chair of an association of Indonesian academic experts on tourism, told the AP that Labuan Bajo was not ready and apparently was chosen to host the summit on short notice. "The hotel facilities and the lodging have become a problem. There is a ship being used for accommodation and it's not a lodging ship," he said.

Welcoming visitors to her coffee shop ahead of the summit, Suti Ana said even though it wasn't the best time for Labuan Bajo to host, ASEAN would boost local businesses. "But we cannot wait, so this is the time," she said.

Choosing the small port town was not a bad idea, Azril said, if it came with adequate planning and government investments in infrastructure.

Located on the western tip of Flores island in southern Indonesia, Labuan Bajo, aside from its beaches and diving and snorkeling spots, has been better known as the gateway to the Komodo National Park  a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only place in the world where Komodo dragons, the world's largest lizards, are found in the wild.

Environmentalists and tourism analysts fear that a wider public interest could put further stress on the already endangered Komodo dragons. Only about 3,300 were known to exist as of 2022.

"If more people come, sooner or later the Komodo dragons cannot breed in peace, this can be a problem," Azahari said, citing longstanding fears that the Komodos could face extinction without full protection.

Despite the odds, Indonesian officials said they would do everything to successfully and safely host the ASEAN summit in Labuan Bajo.

"If there's any commotion along the way, that will be a big stain on the nation's dignity," Edistasius Endi, the regent of Labuan Najo's West Manggarai district, said in a statement.
Indian officials say at least 22 passengers, including children, died Sunday when their boat capsized in Southern India.

A report in the Times of India described the vessel as a heavily overloaded double-decker boat.

It was not immediately clear how many people were aboard the boat, although sources said there were more than 30.

Kerala Tourism Director P.B. Nooh told the Times of India that district disaster management had warned earlier this year about the possibility of boat tragedies due to illegal boat operations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on Twitter that he was Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. He said victims families would be compensated.
The billionaire founder of Foxconn vowed Sunday at a rally that if elected president of Taiwan, he would be able to "preserve peace" between the democratic self-ruled island and China.

Taiwan will elect its next leader in January 2024 to succeed President Tsai Ing-wen, whose two terms in power have been marked by unprecedented tensions with Beijing, which views the island as part of its territory to be reclaimed.

Terry Gou  the founder of Foxconn which is a key supplier of Apple's iPhones  had announced in April he planned to seek the presidential nomination of Taiwan's China-friendly opposition Kuomintang party.

During his first-ever rally, in Taiwan's southern city of Kaohsiung  traditionally a stronghold of Tsai's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)  Gou urged his supporters to "let me preserve peace."

"The last two years, what I have seen is a government who cannot see the sufferings of the people," the 72-year-old said in a speech to a sea of more than 10,000 supporters. "What do the people worry about the most now? They are most concerned that war will break out anytime."

Gou  who donned a cap with Taiwan's flag  said he can "do better than Tsai Ing-wen, or William Lai," the current Taiwanese vice president who has been nominated as the DPP's candidate.

"Let me, on behalf of everyone, strive for peace. Let me preserve the peace," he said.

This would not be Gou's first bid at political leadership  he attempted a run in 2019 before the previous election but lost to populist outsider Han Kuo-yu for the KMT's nomination.

Gou's self-made tale is legendary in Taiwan and mimics the island's phenomenal economic success.

But the huge factories built in China under Gou have rattled critics over his perceived coziness with Beijing's leadership.

The KMT tends to advocate warmer ties with China while under Tsai's leadership, relations with Beijing have plummeted.

Democratic Taiwan lives under constant threat of invasion by China, which views the island as part of its territory to be reclaimed one day, by force, if necessary.

China has ramped up its saber-rattling in recent years, sending warplanes near-daily into Taiwan's air defense identification zone.

Last month, it conducted its latest war games around the island in response to a meeting between Tsai and U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California.
The U.S. State Department said Monday it will not fulfill U.S. lawmakers request for the full Biden administration report on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Its unfortunate that despite having received a classified briefing on the dissent channel cable as well as a written summary that the House Foreign Affairs Committee continues to pursue this unnecessary and unproductive action, State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters.

Nevertheless, we will continue to respond to appropriate oversight inquiries and provide Congress the information it needs to do its job while protecting the ability of State Department employees to do theirs.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul called on U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken last month to release the administrations after-action report on the chaotic August 2021 U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

There is a strong public interest in the Department sharing the results of its After-Action Review to the fullest extent possible, McCaul wrote, noting large portions of the report are marked as sensitive but unclassified or unclassified.

According to McCaul, the 87-page March 2022 After-Action Review contains numerous unexplained redactions and directly contradicts the Biden administrations public statements which largely blamed the failures of the withdrawal on the previous administration of President Donald Trump.

McCaul asked the State Department to release the full report by Friday, May 5.

McCaul said Monday the State Department has also failed to comply with its subpoena to release the July 2021 cable from diplomats at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul using the dissent channel.

The Department is now in violation of its legal obligation to produce these documents and must do so immediately, McCaul wrote in a letter to Blinken Monday. As noted above, should the Department fail to comply with its legal obligation, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding.

The House Foreign Affairs Committee has conducted oversight hearings into the withdrawal, including the August 26, 2021 suicide bomb at Kabul Airport that killed 13 U.S. service members and 170 Afghan civilians.

The Biden administration report said decisions made by the Trump administration to negotiate with the Taliban and set a withdrawal date for U.S. troops prevented an orderly U.S. evacuation.

When you look at what President Biden inherited, the timeline that was required and the agreement that was reached in the Trump administration, the President did everything he could to manage that situation, Democratic Rep. David Cicilline, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told VOA last month. But there are a set of decisions made by the prior administration that made that more difficult.

The U.S. State Department briefed lawmakers late last month on the contents of the cable and the report.

McCaul, a Republican from Texas, told VOA that was not sufficient.

I think if you redact the names, that Congress has the right to know the content, and that's all we asked from the Secretary  you can redact the names, we'll review in a classified setting, he said. But I want to know firsthand the content, I don't want it filtered through your people.

Nike Ching contributed to this report.
In many countries, undergraduate degrees focus on one area of study and take three years. But in the U.S., students are expected to take a series of courses across the arts and sciences before they choose their major. This process is supposed to take four years, though many students need more time. An op-ed in Inside Higher Ed reviews the history of the three-year degree, and argues that U.S. students would save money, get better grades and receive better teaching under such a system. Lou Matz offers an argument in Inside Higher Ed. (May 2023)
Indonesia's President Joko Widodo on Monday condemned a "shootout" involving Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) officials delivering humanitarian aid in Myanmar, and called for an end to violence in the strife-torn country.

It was unclear who was behind the incident which, according to Indonesian foreign ministry spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah, took place in Hsi Hseng township in the western Shan State and targeted officials from the ASEAN humanitarian assistance center.

Myanmar has been trapped in a spiral of violence and economic turmoil since the military in 2021 overthrew an elected government and launched a brutal campaign to crush dissent.

Intensifying military attacks and clashes with armed resistance movements across the country have prompted calls, including from Myanmar's ASEAN neighbours, to end all hostilities and allow access for humanitarian aid.

Jokowi, as the Indonesian president is popularly known, did not give details of what he called a "shootout" but said it would not deter efforts by Indonesia and ASEAN to push for peace in Myanmar.

"Stop using force, stop violence because it's the people who will be victims. This condition will not make anybody win," he said, adding that Indonesia encourages all stakeholders to have a dialogue and find solutions.

Myanmar's shadow National Unity Government, which is allied with the anti-junta militias, the People's Defence Forces (PDF), said it was not involved in the incident.

The PDF did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A spokesperson for the Myanmar junta did not respond to a request for comment.

Indonesia has for months been quietly engaging the Myanmar junta, shadow government and armed ethnic groups to try and kick-start a peace process, its foreign minister said last week.
By Vafa Guliyeva

I have always been proud and today I am proud that I am Azerbaijani, a world-renowned statesman, the founder and architect of the independent Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev said in one of his speeches which has become an aphorism among the people of Azerbaijan.

The man who loved his country and people more than this life, national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, lives in the heart of everybody.

There are leaders who go down in history and remain there. And there are leaders who create national history. Heydar Aliyev was a leader who created the modern history of Azerbaijan. History remembers him as a true legend of his time, a strong head of state and a devoted and unique figure able to take on difficult historical task of state building.

2023 marks centennial of national leader of Azerbaijan  Heydar Aliyev. On this occasion under the Order of the President of the country, Ilham Aliyev, this year was declared the Year of Heydar Aliyev in the country.

National Leader Heydar Aliyev was an outstanding statesman and a world scale politician.

35-year-old history of Azerbaijan covering the period from the late 1960s to the beginning of the 21st century, is directly connected with the name of Heydar Aliyev. His political flair and priceless human qualities enabled the young state to stand on its feet and successfully enter the twenty-first century as an independent country. Under his leadership, he took responsibility for his country, brought together like-minded people and together with them, coped with severe and serious obstacles, created a strong and independent state  modern Azerbaijan.

Under his leadership, Azerbaijan achieved a great success in economy and became the forefront on an all-Union scale. Over these years, the industrial potential of Azerbaijan has more than doubled.

When the large contingent of troops forcefully entered Baku and massacred lots of people on 20 January, 1990, Heydar Aliyev was first who demanded punishment for the organizers and executors of the crime committed against the Azerbaijani people.

As a result of an extreme governmental crisis in May-June, 1993, Azerbaijan was on the edge of civil war and loss of independence. The people of Azerbaijan demanded to bring Heydar Aliyev to power in the country, due to which he was elected as Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan, and on October 3, 1993, became the President of the independent Azerbaijan and was re-elected to the post in 1998.

He came to power precisely at the moment when it was most needed, if not be Heydar Aliyev, there would not be a modern Azerbaijan. Not a single person neither in the country nor abroad would deny this truth. As one of the most respected and world scale politicians, the role and importance of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people is so large that his life, philosophy of administration, level of competence and influence for a very long time will be explored by biographers and historians. Heydar Aliyevs experience has played a unique role in the life of modern Azerbaijan and over the years, it has become even more relevant and meaningful.

With Heydar Aliyevs return to the leadership of Azerbaijan in 1993, a deep-rooted transformation started in political, social, economic, scientific and cultural life of the country, as well as in foreign affairs of Azerbaijan and development of an independent state-building in accordance with international norms and principles.

Heydar Aliyev was a pragmatic politician. His political and managing principles were far from the romanticism and dreaminess. The decisions he took might seem unusual at first sight, but in the end, considering all the reality and correctness, are the most optimal and balanced.

With the return of national leader Haydar Aliyev to the leadership of Azerbaijan, a turning point occurred in the socio-political, socio-economic, scientific and cultural life of the country, as well as in international relations. As a result of the urgent measures taken by the national leader, important steps were taken to form the National Army, establish a regular armed force capable of protecting the national interests of Azerbaijan, and defend the lands. The decisive measures taken by Haydar Aliyev to prevent the economic decline, civil war, Armenia's policy of aggression against Azerbaijan, restore the traditions of statehood and stability in the first years of independence soon began to be felt in the lives of every citizen.

Since 1993, as a result of the visionary policies and hard work of Heydar Aliyev, the country started to achieve accomplishments in its economic and social development and have obtained great results in terms of integration into the world economy. The biggest achievement at that end was the creation of a new model of economic reforms and development  the model of Azerbaijan.

In 1994, declaration of the ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan, signing of the Contract of the century, adoption of the Constitution in 1995, restoration of the ancient Silk Road connecting East and West and implementation of other important works were achieved. As a result of the thoughtful and wise policy of the great leader, the Azerbaijani economy developed in a short time.

As the architect of the new energy strategy of Azerbaijan, national leader Heydar Aliyev was the author of very crucial political decisions in the 1990s that had great importance in shaping energy policy of the country and simultaneously demonstrated the readiness of the Republic to contribute to the energy security of Europe. Accordingly, the "contract of the century" was signed on September 20, 1994, which went down in history as one of the greatest and most significant events of the 20th century. The most important prerequisites for this event were the importance of oil and gas resources of the Caspian basin, including Azerbaijans water area which was rich in hydrocarbon resources. Heydar Aliyev managed to diplomatically eliminate discrepancies around the signing of the contract.

Over the 10 years of his presidency, Heydar Aliyev has undertaken radical reforms in Azerbaijan and transformed the ruins of the almost devastated country into a viable state. Heydar Aliyevs multifaceted policy became the state strategy that brought about prosperity and stability in the country. He came to power applying a pragmatic and balanced foreign policy, which helped to build constructive relationships with China, USA, EU and wise partnerships with the closest neighbors  Turkiye, Russia and Iran.

The Republic of Azerbaijan attained a status of a credible, democratic, legal and secular state in the world in a short period of time. Under the leadership of Heydar Aliyev, the foreign policy of Azerbaijan, as well as its relations with leading states of the world and international organizations has started to develop the course based on national interests and far-sighted political perspective.

The name of Heydar Aliyev will always live in the hearts of people and future generations. The chronicle of the life of this excellent man is to be read, studied and promoted, because the life of Heydar Aliyev is the history of Azerbaijan that we are living.
Nearly 400 villagers were killed in flooding and landslides brought by torrential rains in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), said Theo Ngwabije Kasi, the governor of South Kivu province, on Monday.

According to the latest official report, the bodies of the victims have been mostly found in Bushushu and Nyamukubi, two villages hard hit by flooding caused by heavy rains.

On Sunday, a central government delegation arrived in Bukavu, the capital of the province, en route to support rescue operations on the ground, said government spokesman Patrick Muyaya.

The DRC government also declared May 8 a day of national mourning to honor the victims of the disaster.

Since last week, heavy rains have been reported in this part of the country where landslides regularly claim the lives of residents during rainy periods.

Over the past week, more than 780 households were left homeless following the floods that hit Uvira territory in South Kivu province, and more than 600 houses were destroyed, according to the authorities of the province.

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Rome's foreign ministry issued a traveling guidance Monday, "strongly" recommending that any Italians who are still in Ukraine leave by any means. The alert on Italy's "traveling safety" website cited Monday's heavy missile attacks on Kyiv and across all Ukrainian territory. It also urged anyone going for work there to take "appropriate risk prevention and mitigation measures" and to exercise "maximum caution."

Wagner's chief, Yevgeny Prighozin, said his fighters have started receiving ammunition from the Russian military and reported progress in Bakhmut. "Today, the groups advanced a maximum of 130 meters (400 feet) ... Fierce fighting is going on, but the groups are continuing to advance," Prigozhin said in an audio message posted on social media.

Moscow's famed Red Square parade Tuesday on Russia's Victory Day will take place amid ramped-up security due to Russian fears of Ukrainian attacks. Many other Russian regions are canceling their V-Day celebrations as the war overshadows Russia's most important anniversary.

Fears about the safety of Europe's largest nuclear power plant are growing after the Moscow-installed governor of the Ukrainian region where it is located ordered civilian evacuations.

A survey published by the Democratic Initiatives Foundation on Monday shows that more than 67% of Ukrainians say the war with Russia can end only after a Ukrainian victory. Also, 82% of the respondents say there's no difference between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Adolf Hitler, leader of Nazi Germany.

In his daily video address Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commemorated the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in WWII and drew a parallel between the evil of Nazism then with "the current evil of ruscism."

"Today, on May 8, when the world remembers the words 'never again!' we in Ukraine give meaning to these words. Not only to remember, but also to protect," he said. "May the victory over the current evil of ruscism be the best honor to the memory of those who fought and defeated Nazism!"

The term "ruscism" was coined by Ukrainians to describe the Russian state under the current rule of President Vladmir Putin  roughly, Russian fascism.

Zelenskyy signed a bill Monday to officially mark May 8 as the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II, breaking away from Russia's May 9 V-Day anniversary tradition.

Most European nations celebrate the anniversary of Germany's unconditional surrender on May 8. Russia and some former Soviet countries celebrate Victory Day on May 9, using the term the "Great Patriotic War," to stress Russia's victory over Nazi Germany.

Ukraine's Victory Day anniversary had also been the same day as Russia's, but this changed after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014.

"We will never forget the contribution of the Ukrainian people to the victory over Nazism. And we will not allow lies, as if the victory in that war could happen without the participation of any country or nation," Zelenskyy said in Monday's video.

The Ukrainian president decreed May 9 to be Europe Day instead, marking Europe's support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

"Today, I signed the relevant decree, and every year from tomorrow, May 9, we will commemorate our historic unity  the unity of all Europeans who destroyed Nazism and will defeat ruscism," Zelenskyy said.

"This will be the Day of Europe, which helps us fight in all directions: on the battlefield with weapons and on the diplomatic front with determination against missile terror and the winter blackout, in the economy and on the legal front," Zelenskyy said. "This will be the Day of Europe  our ally. Which gives shelter to Ukrainian women and children. Which does not encroach on our sovereignty and does not call into question our right to choose our own national path."

The Ukrainian president said Monday that Russian forces in Ukraine will be defeated like Nazi Germany was defeated in World War II.

Russian attacks

Explosions were heard overnight in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on the messaging app Telegram that three people were wounded in blasts in Kyiv's Solomyanskyi district and two in the Sviatoshyn district, both west of the capital's center in the "biggest" exploding drone attack so far.

This was the fourth attack on Kyiv in eight days and was launched 24 hours before Russia's Victory Day anniversary.

Ukraine's First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova tweeted that Ukrainian forces shot down 35 Iranian-made Shahed drones, but that debris had hit apartment buildings in Kyiv and injured five people.

In the Black Sea city of Odesa, Dzhaparova said Russian missiles hit a food warehouse and a recreation area, killing one person and injuring three others. A missile strike "completely" destroyed a Red Cross warehouse in the city, the humanitarian aid organization reported.

Russian artillery shelling also wounded eight people, including a 9-year-old boy, in two villages in Ukraine's southern region of Kherson, regional officials said.

Russia has also intensified its attacks on Bakhmut. Yevgeny Prighozin and his Wagner group continued their assault on the besieged city after the Russian military promised them more arms and ammunition.

Nuclear plant concerns

Fears about the safety of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in eastern Ukraine grew Sunday after Russian officials ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements around the nuclear power plant.

The plant is near the front line of battles between Russian and Ukrainian forces. Russia fired more than 30 shells at Nikopol, a Ukrainian-held town neighboring the plant, killing a 72-year-old woman and injuring three others Sunday, according to Ukrainian authorities.

Ukraine has also mounted attacks in the vicinity of the plant, according to The Associated Press.

The head of the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog agency said in a statement Saturday the situation near the plant "is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous."

"I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant," International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi said.

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Iran's judiciary announced the executions Monday of two men who were sentenced to death for blasphemy.

The judiciary's Mizan news site identified them as Yousef Mehrad and Sadrollah Fazeli Zare.

The report said their crimes included insulting Islam and the Prophet Muhammad, and that they used online platforms to spread hatred of Islam and promote atheism.

Mahmoud Amiry-Moghaddam, who leads the Norway-based group, Iran Human Rights, said in a statement, "the authorities have once again demonstrated their medieval nature by killing two people for expressing their opinion." He called on the international community to respond decisively and immediately.

A group of U.N. experts last year highlighted concerns about Iran's criminalization of blasphemy and called on the Iranian government to "take meaningful steps to ensure the right to freedom of religion or belief and freedom of opinion and expression without discrimination."

Human rights groups reported that Mehrad and Zare were transferred earlier this year to solitary confinement.

The two were part of a group of seven people who had been arrested in 2020 for maintaining a telegram channel called "Criticism of Superstition and Religion," according to HRANA, the Human Rights Activists news agency. The rights group reported that the other defendants were released on bail, while Mehrad and Zare were sentenced to death.

Iran's Supreme Court upheld their death sentence in July 2021.

Death sentences in Iran have been on the rise with more than 200 prisoners being put to death since the start of this year, according to Iran Human Rights.

A German-Iranian political dissident, Jamshid Sharmahd, is also facing a death sentence, following a trial that Amnesty International last month called "grossly unfair."

The European Union's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said he spoke about Sharmahd on Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and "asked Iran not to execute" him.

In an interview with VOA's Persian service, Gazelle Sharmahd, the daughter of Sharmahd, said, "We don't have any contact with my father, and we must follow the latest news."

Some information for this story came from Reuters and The Associated Press.
Seven soldiers were killed Sunday after their vehicle ran over a landmine in the Niger's western Tillaberi region, said the National Guard of Niger (GNN).

Jihadist fighters regularly launch attacks in the region.

A vehicle carrying supplies on a weekly delivery run hit the mine late in the morning 6 kilometers (4 miles) from Samira village, said the GNN in a statement.

The village, which lies not far from Niger's border with Burkina Faso in the southwest, has since 2004 hosted the country's only industrial-scale gold mine.

This assault was just the latest in a series of attacks against Niger's soldiers.

The impoverished Sahel country is grappling with an insurgency by jihadists linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group. In the southwest, they also have to contend with jihadist fighters from Boko Haram.

It is supported by a number of Western countries, including France and the United States, who both have military bases there.
Nigerian security forces have rescued 58 people who were abducted by gunmen in central Kogi state, near the capital, Abuja. Nigerian police say one of those abducted was killed during the rescue operation and the kidnappers escaped.



Police authorities in a statement Sunday said the rescue mission was part of operations by security forces to fight violent crimes, rescue victims and nab offenders around Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighboring states.

The captives were held in a forest in Gegu district of nearby Kogi state.



Police said kidnappers fought back hard as security forces arrived but say security agents overpowered and injured many of them before they fled, leaving the victims behind.

The Abuja police commissioner Haruna Garba told VOA via phone that a total of 58 abductees were rescued in the Gegu raid and others.

"Fourteen of the people from Kwali were rescued, then another eight that were taken away from Niger into forests close to our borders were also rescued, that one came after," he said.



Police said one of the abductees who sustained an injury during the Gegu rescue operation died on the spot. They said the other kidnap victims rescued will be reunited with their families after medical exams.



Nigeria is battling a range of security issues but kidnapping is among the most challenging.



Abuja has maintained relative calm despite states not far from it battling armed violence including more frequent kidnap-for-ransom attacks.



Security analyst Senator Iroegbu says the general insecurity can be traced back to a jailbreak last year in Abuja that that freed hundreds of criminals including terror suspects.

"It's still linked to the issue of so many unresolved cases of insecurity, one leads to the other," he said. "There are a lot of sleeper cells around waiting to activate any moment. So what you have now is mixed, from terrorist groups and criminals groups."

Iroegbu says to address the problem, authorities must change their approach to security matters.



"They've not yet changed their tactics, they've always been reactive, government needs to take more proactive measures," he added. "Most people are under the excruciating pain of the poor economy, people sleep without food. They should be able to sleep feeling safe."

Nigeria's president-elect, Bola Tinubu will be sworn-in on May 29. His predecessor has been widely criticized for not securing the country enough.
Six people accused of building explosive devices have been arrested in a joint security operation in Uganda that started Sunday night and ended Monday morning.

Police connected the men to online calls for a nationwide anti-government protest.

The operation in the Central Wakiso district involved the police, the head of military intelligence, the army and Uganda's internal security organization.

"The suspected terrorists had a camp here where they were assembling and making IEDs [improvised explosive devices]," said Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson. "The suspects we have will be taken to one of our police stations for more interviews and interrogations to ascertain the aim and probably their targets."

The arrested suspects were identified as Hamidu Ssekidde, Muhammad Kalyango, Abdul Katumba, Arafat Ssali, Emmanuel Asiimwe and Hamidu Muyondi.

According to the deputy spokesperson, Muyondi was mistakenly shot when a police officer forgot to put a safety pin on, and his gun discharged a bullet striking the suspect in the leg. The injury is said to be minor.

Police said the suspects wanted to cause mayhem in Kampala following online posts calling for Ugandans to come out in large numbers and join anti-government protests.

The social media posts had symbols and hashtags normally used by the National Unity Party, the main opposition group to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. However, when called by VOA, party officials said they were not behind the posts and chose not to make a comment about the arrests.

Police have not filed formal charges against the terror suspects. Charges are expected after an investigation, which will attempt to find any collaborators connected to the six.
Police in Pakistan say people attending a political rally in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday beat a man to death because they believed he made blasphemous remarks.

Local police officer Iqbal Khan said Maulana Nigar Alam, 40, was killed because Some words of his prayer were deemed blasphemous by a number of protestors, leading to torture and death at the hands of the angry mob.

Police locked the man up in a shop to protect him, but the mob broke through the shops door.

Khan told Dawn, a Pakistani website, that Alam died during the attack in the northern city of Marden.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in predominantly Muslim Pakistan and is punishable by death.

Domestic and international rights groups say allegations of blasphemy are enough to cause mob attacks and the killing of the accused. Blasphemy laws are also sometimes used to settle personal vendettas and disputes and intimidate religious minorities in Pakistan.

Ayaz Gul contributed to this report from Islamabad. Some information was provided by the Associated Press.
A fire followed by an explosion in a remote gold mine in southern Peru killed at least 27 workers during an overnight shift Saturday.

Local Peruvian authorities said that a short circuit may have sparked the fire at the La Esperanza 1 mine about 100 meters below the surface in the Arequipa region.

The Yanaquihua Company that operates the mine said that 175 workers were safely evacuated after the fire.

The Public Ministry of Arequipas Fiscal District said in a statement that investigators were working to clarify the circumstances of the accident.

During the investigation, the Prosecutors Office will determine the cause of the tragic event and the responsibilities of those involved, the statement said.

News of the fire came out Sunday after police gathered information and determined the identities of the victims.

According to data from Peru's Ministry of Energy and Mines Saturdays gold mine accident was the countrys single deadliest in more than two decades.

Peru is South Americas top gold producer and mining is a key industry for the country.

In 2022, 38 people were killed in mining accidents around the country, highlighting safety concerns in Latin American mining.

Peru had its deadliest year in 2002 when 73 people died in several different mining accidents.
Envoys from both of Sudans warring factions met Monday for a third day of talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to arrange for the opening of humanitarian corridors in Sudan, but there was no sign the negotiations have made progress.

The parties have insisted they are only sitting across from each other to bring some relief to the humanitarian situation in the North African country and not to negotiate a truce.

The talks, which began Saturday, are aimed at allowing aid agencies to access those who are wounded, hungry or displaced. The Saudi kingdom has already pledged that it will provide Sudan with $100 millions worth of humanitarian aid.

Fighting erupted in Sudan in mid-April. After just a few weeks of fighting between the countrys military and a paramilitary force, hundreds of thousands of Sudanese have been forced to flee from their homes, with many of the displaced seeking refuge in bordering countries.

The two sides  Sudans military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  have not met since the fighting erupted April 15.

Fragile cease-fire agreements have failed to end the conflict or even do much to reduce the violence.

Eyewitnesses in Sudans capital, Khartoum, told VOA they heard renewed gunfire and an airstrike in the city Monday in and around the downtown area.

A Saudi official told Agence France-Presse Monday that the talks in Jeddah have yielded "no major progress so far. The official said "a permanent cease-fire isn't on the table. Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle.

The Sudan Tribune reported Sunday that the army negotiators have made three demands, including unconditional withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces from Khartoum, an extension of a humanitarian truce, and the integration of the RSF into the Sudanese army within two years.

The newspaper said, "It's not clear how the RSF negotiators will respond to these demands."

Sudanese citizens are watching the talks in Jeddah with a mix of hope and skepticism.

Sumeya Musa, who fled violence from Khartoum to Al Jazirah state, told VOA she hopes the talks produce a truce that will allow her to safely escape Sudan.

Our hope from these talks is that the guns will be silenced, and we move out of this country. Practically, we are suffering. We just want to see airstrikes, bombing and guns to stop for a while, she said.

The United Nations migration agency said recently that at least 334,000 people have been internally displaced by the fighting, in addition to the 100,000 who have fled the country. The U.N. refugee agency has warned the fighting could cause more than 800,000 to flee Sudan.



Most aid operations have been suspended or severely scaled back due to the lack of security. Several aid workers have been killed in the fighting.

Looting also has hampered aid operations.



The World Food Program said nearly 17,000 tons of food worth between $13 million and $14 million have been stolen from its warehouses across Sudan.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said recently it has launched an emergency appeal to support the Sudanese Red Crescent Society in its effort to deliver assistance to 200,000 people.



Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
The chief diplomat of Afghanistan's ruling Taliban insisted Monday that his government had not banned girls' education "permanently, while women continue to work in different sectors across the country.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi addressed a seminar in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, to wrap up a four-day official visit to the neighboring country, where he also attended a trilateral dialogue with his Chinese and Pakistani counterparts.

"We have 10 million students currently attending primary-level and university-level education [in Afghanistan]. Nine million can access all forms of education. They include girls up to grade six. Around 300,000 teachers, including 92,000 females, teach in these institutions," he said.

The hardline Islamist group reclaimed control of the country in August 2021 when the United States and NATO withdrew their troops after almost two decades of involvement in the Afghan war. The Taliban have since imposed their strict version of Islamic law or Sharia to run the impoverished, war-torn South Asian nation.



Many Afghan women, including those working for the United Nations and non-governmental groups, have been blocked from accessing work and public places.

The Taliban have rejected international demands to remove restrictions on women as interference in Afghanistan's internal affairs.



Still in his remarks Monday, Muttaqi insisted that thousands of female doctors and nurses are working in health business sectors. Girls and women are attending madrasas (Islamic seminaries) and even teaching there.

"We have never said that female education is un-Islamic or banned permanently in Afghanistan. The decree clearly stated that female education is suspended until further notice," Muttaqi said.



He referred to the edict issued by the reclusive Taliban chief, Hibatullah Akhundzada, last year that prohibited young girls from attending schools beyond the sixth grade and subsequently suspended female students from accessing university classes.



"We have made progress on this issue to a large extent, and the government of Afghanistan will continue to make efforts to resolve the remaining problems about this issue amicably," Muttaqi said without elaborating.



A team of U.N. experts on human rights concluded an eight-day mission to the country last Friday, reporting an unprecedented "extreme situation of institutionalized gender-based discrimination" in Afghanistan.



"We are deeply concerned about the apparent perpetration in Afghanistan of gender persecution  a systematic and grave human rights violation and a crime against humanity," the mission said in its preliminary findings. It noted Taliban authorities, in meetings with the U.N. team, had reiterated that they were working on the reopening of girls' schools but did not provide a clear timeline.



Trilateral talks



Muttaqi, who faces U.N. travel sanctions, was given a waiver to make the visit to Islamabad to attend on Saturday a trilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

Beijing and Islamabad urged the Taliban delegation to conduct counterterror actions against terrorist groups operating on Afghan soil and threatening regional security.



"We will not allow anyone to use the soil of Afghanistan against others. We have been successful in our resolve, and we will remain committed to this pledge in the future that Afghan soil is not used against anyone," responded Muttaqi while speaking at Monday's seminar in the Pakistani capital.



Pakistan issued a joint statement Monday about the three-nation talks, saying the participants resolved to deepen and expand their cooperation in the security, development, and political domains.



They also stressed the need for the Taliban to stop militant groups, including the outlawed Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP and the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, or ETIM, from using Afghan soil to threaten neighboring countries.



TTP and ETIM have been waging deadly attacks, respectively, in Pakistan and China from their alleged sanctuaries in Afghanistan.

The Chinese and Pakistani delegates agreed at the meeting to enhance support for the Taliban government in the economic reconstruction of the war-torn country.



The joint statement said the three countries reaffirmed "their commitment to further the trilateral cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and to jointly extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan."



The CPEC is a multibillion-dollar extension to Pakistan of China's global BRI infrastructure development project.



Chinese investment of more than $20 billion has built new roads, power plants, and ports in Pakistan to help improve its economy, linking the two allied nations through the corridor to give China access to international markets through the Arabian Sea deep-water Pakistani port of Gwadar.



The Chinese-developed and run port is expected to further facilitate trade and transit activities to and through landlocked Afghanistan to Central Asian countries.
The head of the Wagner mercenary group said on Sunday that Russia had promised his fighters enough ammunition to stay in the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, after threatening to pull out in scathing videos.

Rivalries between Yevgeny Prigozhin and the conventional army had boiled over during the battle for the now-devastated flashpoint, where Wagner is leading the assault.

"Overnight we received a combat order... they promised to give us all the ammunition and armaments we need to continue the operations" in Bakhmut, Prigozhin said.

His group has been assured "that everything necessary will be provided", he added.

On Friday, he had threatened to pull out of Bakhmut on May 10, blaming Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of Russian casualties in a series of blistering, profanity-laced videos.

"Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he said.

The internal row comes as Russia has reported increasing drone strikes and sabotage inside its territory ahead of an expected spring counteroffensive from Ukraine.

Ukraine also reported casualties early Monday morning from fresh Russian strikes on Kyiv overnight.

The Ukrainian air command said that all 35 Russian drones launched at the city had been detected and shot down, while the local military administration said at least five people were wounded, with falling debris blamed for damage in multiple areas.

In Odessa, the district military administration reported an airstrike hitting a warehouse, adding that "there has not been any information about victims".

Dying so you can get fat

In one of his previous video broadsides against the Russian army, Prigozhin stood before what he said were rows of dead Wagner fighters.

"They came here as volunteers and they are dying so you can get fat in your wood-panelled offices," he said.

On Saturday, he asked Moscow to let him hand over his positions to Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov, who had said that his forces were "ready to move" toward Bakhmut.

Prigozhin has for months accused the conventional army of refusing to deliver ammunition to his men.

Nevertheless, the emotive language used in Friday's videos and the ferocity of his attack on the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.

On Sunday, Prigozhin said Russian General Sergei Surovikin, one of Gerasimov's deputies, would oversee Wagner's operations.

"He is the only decorated general that knows how to fight," Prigozhin said in a fresh dig at Russia's other army chiefs.

Surovikin was named military commander in Ukraine in October.

Three months later, he was replaced by Gerasimov, whom Prigozhin regularly criticises.

Everything possible

Russian troops have battled since last summer to capture Bakhmut, the political importance of which has come to surpass any strategic value.

On Saturday, the commander of Ukraine's ground forces, Oleksandr Syrsky, visited the eastern front.

"The enemy is not going to change its plans and is doing everything possible to take control of Bakhmut," Syrsky said in a statement published on Sunday.

Ukraine has been gearing up for a counteroffensive, with some experts suggesting that the drone strikes and acts of sabotage on Russian-held territory are part of its preparations.

The strikes precede Russia's May 9 public holiday, an event that celebrates the Soviet victory over the Nazis in World War II.

On Sunday, the Russian army said it had repelled 22 Ukrainian drones over the Black Sea.

Shortly before, authorities in Russian-annexed Crimea, surrounded by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, said they had downed more than 10 drones over the southern peninsula.

The Russian security services also said they thwarted a drone attack on an airfield in the Ivanovo region.

Unpredictable

As the counteroffensive looms, Moscow has ordered families with children and elderly members to temporarily evacuate a slew of Russian-held areas in southern Ukraine.

More than 1,500 people have been evacuated, including 632 minors, the governor of the southern Zaporizhzhia region said Sunday.

The partial evacuations concern at least 18 towns and settlements, including the town near Europe's largest nuclear plant.

"The general situation in the area near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is becoming increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous," UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Saturday.

"I'm extremely concerned about the very real nuclear safety and security risks facing the plant."

Meanwhile, Russian pro-Kremlin writer Zakhar Prilepin issued a defiant message on Sunday, a day after being wounded in an attack on his car that killed his assistant.

"I tell the demons: you will not intimidate anyone," Prilepin wrote on Telegram in his first message since the attack.

Moscow has blamed Ukraine and the United States for the car attack, which Kyiv has suggested was due to in-fighting between rival Russian factions.

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U.S. President Joe Biden on Sunday called on Congress to pass gun control bills in the wake of yet another mass shooting that left nine people dead, including the gunman, at a Texas mall on Saturday.

The Democratic president renewed calls for Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as to enact universal background checks and end immunity for gun manufacturers. There is little chance the narrowly divided House and Senate would pass such legislation, although polls show most Americans support background checks.

Biden, who has made similar pleas before, said the assailant at Allen Premium Outlets mall in Allen, a northern suburb of Dallas, wore tactical gear and was armed with an AR-15 style assault weapon.

The gunman killed eight people, including children, and wounded at least seven, before a police officer killed him, police said on Saturday.

Mass shootings have become commonplace in the United States, with at least 199 so far in 2023, the most at this point in the year since at least 2016, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The nonprofit group defines a mass shooting as any in which four or more people are wounded or killed, not including the shooter.

The tragedy in Allen, which happened just over a week after another deadly shooting in the Texas town of Cleveland, reignited the heated debate over gun control in the United States.

The U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment protects the right to bear arms, and that issue is a hot button one for many Republicans, who are backed by millions in donations from gun rights groups and manufacturers.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, called the shooting "devastating" in a Sunday morning interview on Fox News but said that the way to effectively tackle gun violence lies in addressing mental health.

"There has been a dramatic increase in the amount of anger and violence that's taking place in America," he said. "We are working to address that anger and violence by going to his root cause, which is addressing the mental health problems behind it."

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and other Democrats stressed the need to pass stronger gun safety legislation to curtail gun violence.

On Saturday, TV aerials showed hundreds of people calmly walking out of the mall, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Dallas, after the violence unfolded, many with their hands up as scores of police stood guard.

One unidentified eyewitness told local ABC affiliate WFAA TV that the gunman was "walking down the sidewalk just ... shooting his gun outside."
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Authentic Ukrainian ethnic folk attire made a recent appearance on a runway at Metropolitan Fashion Week Seattle, held in the city's suburb of Woodinville. Natasha Mozgovaya has more.
In just a few months, U.S. officials have pivoted from publicly warning Beijing not to provide material support for Russias war in Ukraine to acknowledging there is a role for China to play in brokering peace talks.

On February 24, the day that China unveiled its 12-point peace proposal, Blinken voiced skepticism during remarks to the United Nations Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine.

No member of this council should call for peace while supporting Russias war on Ukraine and on the U.N. Charter, the top U.S. diplomat said one year after Russia invaded Ukraine.

By May 3, Blinken publicly acknowledged that it's possible China would have a very beneficial role to play in peace talks.

Analysts and former American officials told VOA the shift in U.S. tone is partly a response to Washingtons European allies, who view Chinese President Xi Jinping as the only possible leader who can influence Russian President Vladimir Putin's thinking about the war in Ukraine.

China has since announced it will send a peace envoy to Ukraine, although some remain skeptical that Beijing can be neutral.

Chinas special envoy for Eurasian affairs, Li Hui, is expected to travel to Ukraine and other nations in a bid to bring a cease-fire and a diplomatic resolution to the war.

Li, a fluent Russian speaker, was Beijings former envoy to Russia from 2009 to 2019 and was among a few people awarded the Medal of Friendship by Putin.

When asked by VOA if the U.S. thinks China can be bias-free in mediating an end to Russia's invasion in Ukraine, a State Department spokesperson said, When it comes to diplomacy, nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. The other key part of this is obviously Russia. The Kremlin has yet to demonstrate any meaningful interest in ending this war; quite the opposite."

No, China cannot be bias-free. China is clearly supportive of President Putin, said Ambassador William Taylor, vice president for Europe and Russia at the Washington-based U.S. Institute of Peace. So, it cannot present itself as a neutral mediator.

Taylor was charge daffaires at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv in 2019 and as the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine from 2006 to 2009.

As U.S. President Joe Bidens administration is reported to be weighing whether to work with Beijing to seek a negotiated settlement in Ukraine, Taylor told VOA, The key caution is to be sure that any conversation with the Chinese about the Russian war on Ukraine has the Ukrainians as participants.

The Chinese as a mediator are not terribly forceful, said Dennis Wilder, an assistant professor of Asian studies at Georgetown University, who from 2009 to 2015 was senior editor of the U.S. Presidents Daily Brief, a summary of intelligence from across the government.

If people are expecting the Chinese to come up with the creative solution, they'll be disappointed. That's not the way China operates. If people are looking for China to offer its good offices, China is pretty good at that. But the Chinese very rarely come up with the solution, Wilder told VOA.

Last Wednesday, when asked by The Washington Post about working with China to achieve a stable outcome in Ukraine and Chinas offer to mediate an end to the war, Secretary of State Antony Blinken struck a warmer tone.

"It's certainly possible that China would have a role to play in that effort, and that could be very beneficial, he said.

Experts say those remarks reflect the European Unions belief that there has been some progress in encouraging Xi to oppose the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine and to support Ukrainian territorial integrity and sovereignty. They hope China will do more going forward.

While agreeing with the U.S. that it is necessary to warn Beijing against supplying lethal aid to Russia, at the same time they want to urge China to use its leverage over Moscow to bring an end to the war, said Bonnie Glaser, managing director of the Indo-Pacific program at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

Others, including former Assistant Secretary for Europe Philip Reeker, who now heads the Global Europe Program at the Wilson Center, believes working together to help end Putins disastrous adventure would give Washington and Beijing an opportunity for engagement that could help in their own strained bilateral relations.

The debate on whether Washington could work with Beijing in achieving a negotiated settlement in Ukraine came as the White House said Washington and Beijing are discussing a potential trip to China by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. Blinken also said he was hopeful to reschedule a visit to China this year.
With the Arab League agreeing to readmit Syria in the regional bloc, U.S.-backed Kurdish groups are expressing hope that this development will lead to a permanent resolution to the countrys 12-year conflict.

Arab League foreign ministers met Sunday in Cairo to vote on the reinstatement of Syria's membership after a suspension of nearly 12 years due to the government of President Bashar Assads brutal crackdown on anti-government protesters in 2011.

Syrian Kurdish groups welcomed the move, saying an active Arab involvement in Syria could activate a peace process in the war-torn country.

We view this as a positive step, because it could lead toward a resolution, said Dalya Henan, a leading member of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), the de facto political ruler in northeast Syria.

But if we are looking for a real resolution to the Syrian conflict, all relevant sides must be involved, she told VOA.

The SDC is the political wing of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a major U.S. partner in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) terror group. The two Kurdish-led groups are in control of nearly one third of Syrias territory.

The Syrian government doesnt recognize SDFs de facto semi-autonomous region, and talks between the two sides in recent years have yielded no results, primarily due to Assads opposition to the Kurdish partnership with Washington.

Some 900 U.S. troops remain in Kurdish-controlled Syria as part of a global coalition against IS remnants. The Syrian government has been calling for their withdrawal.

But experts believe the U.S. is set on maintaining a low-cost, light-footprint presence in northeast Syria for the foreseeable future.

The reality of an indefinite American context in Syria has settled into the strategy of regional actors, who now have a sense of the U.S.-imposed rules of the road to end the Syrian conflict, said Nicholas Heras, a Syria expert at the Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy in Washington.

Fundamentally, the Biden team has an unspoken but active don't look, don't touch approach to Syria policy that regional actors are coming to terms with: the U.S. won't look at regional, and European, rapprochement with the Assad government, but the regional actors won't touch the reality of American engagement with the Kurdish-led SDF zone in northeast Syria, he told VOA.

But retired Colonel Myles B. Caggins III, a former spokesperson for the anti-IS coalition, believes Syrias return to the Arab League could have implications for the U.S. military presence in the country.

Assads restored regional legitimacy is another indicator that Washington will eventually pull troops out of northeastern Syria, he told VOA.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson said Washington shared the goals of its Arab partners in Syria, including building security and stability, but remained skeptical of Assads willingness to take the steps necessary to resolve Syrias crisis, according to Reuters.

We do not believe Syria merits readmission into the Arab League at this time, the spokesperson said Sunday, adding that U.S. sanctions on the Syrian government would remain in full effect.

Washington insists that the only viable solution to the Syrian conflict is the implementation of U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254, which was adopted in 2015.

Analyst Heras said the current U.S. political and military position in northeast Syria could help the Kurds in the future.

This reality means that the Syrian Kurds have an opportunity to build an enduring, albeit necessarily multiethnic and inclusive reality in northeast Syria that can bargain better with Damascus, he said.

Last week the Washington-based al-Monitor news site reported that Mazloum Abdi, the top commander of SDF, had traveled to the UAE seeking Abu Dhabis help in mediating a deal between the Kurds and Damascus.

Some information in this report came from Reuters. VOAs Zana Omer contributed from Qamishli, Syria.

This story originated in VOAs Kurdish Service.
The White House said national security adviser Jake Sullivan discussed efforts to end the war in Yemen as he met Sunday with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

A White House statement said the two also discussed Saudi Arabias support to U.S. citizens who evacuated from Sudan following the outbreak of fighting there last month.

Saudi state media said the talks took place in the port city of Jeddah, and that the discussion involved strategic relations.

The White House said the two also took part in wider talks with national security advisers from India and the United Arab Emirates to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world.

The talks come amid strained relations between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The sources of that tension include the 2018 killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul and cuts in oil production by the Saudi-led OPEC+ group.

U.S. intelligence agencies assessed the Saudi crown prince approved the operation to capture or kill Khashoggi, which Saudi Arabia has denied.

The war in Yemen began in 2014 when Houthi rebels seized the countrys capital. Saudi Arabia launched a military coalition in early 2015 in support of the Yemeni government.

Some information for this story came from The Associated Press and Reuters.
Envoys from both of Sudans warring factions met Monday for a third day of talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to arrange for the opening of humanitarian corridors in Sudan, but there was no sign the negotiations have made progress.

The parties have insisted they are only sitting across from each other to bring some relief to the humanitarian situation in the North African country and not to negotiate a truce.

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The talks, which began Saturday, are aimed at allowing aid agencies to access those who are wounded, hungry or displaced. The Saudi kingdom has already pledged that it will provide Sudan with $100 millions worth of humanitarian aid.

Fighting erupted in Sudan in mid-April. After just a few weeks of fighting between the countrys military and a paramilitary force, hundreds of thousands of Sudanese have been forced to flee from their homes, with many of the displaced seeking refuge in bordering countries.

The two sides  Sudans military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  have not met since the fighting erupted April 15.

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Fragile cease-fire agreements have failed to end the conflict or even do much to reduce the violence.

Eyewitnesses in Sudans capital, Khartoum, told VOA they heard renewed gunfire and an airstrike in the city Monday in and around the downtown area.

A Saudi official told Agence France-Presse Monday that the talks in Jeddah have yielded "no major progress so far. The official said "a permanent cease-fire isn't on the table. Every side believes it is capable of winning the battle.

The Sudan Tribune reported Sunday that the army negotiators have made three demands, including unconditional withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces from Khartoum, an extension of a humanitarian truce, and the integration of the RSF into the Sudanese army within two years.

The newspaper said, "It's not clear how the RSF negotiators will respond to these demands."

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Sudanese citizens are watching the talks in Jeddah with a mix of hope and skepticism.

Sumeya Musa, who fled violence from Khartoum to Al Jazirah state, told VOA she hopes the talks produce a truce that will allow her to safely escape Sudan.

Our hope from these talks is that the guns will be silenced, and we move out of this country. Practically, we are suffering. We just want to see airstrikes, bombing and guns to stop for a while, she said.

The United Nations migration agency said recently that at least 334,000 people have been internally displaced by the fighting, in addition to the 100,000 who have fled the country. The U.N. refugee agency has warned the fighting could cause more than 800,000 to flee Sudan.



Most aid operations have been suspended or severely scaled back due to the lack of security. Several aid workers have been killed in the fighting.

Looting also has hampered aid operations.



The World Food Program said nearly 17,000 tons of food worth between $13 million and $14 million have been stolen from its warehouses across Sudan.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said recently it has launched an emergency appeal to support the Sudanese Red Crescent Society in its effort to deliver assistance to 200,000 people.



Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
WASHINGTON - The Constitutional Court has dismissed an application by the opposition Movement for Democratic Change, which was seeking an order to declare new election drawm by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission as null and void.

Chief Justice Luke Malaba, sitting with seven other Constitutional Court judges, said they found it prudent to dismiss the matter, which was not properly filed by the applicants, the MDC-T.

Malaba said they will give their reasons for dismissing the case.

His lawyer, Lovemore Mabhuku, said, The Constitutional Court decided right at the outset not to go into the merits of the matter. They said we had not pleaded in a way that would accommodate them to hear the matter. Thats how they put it. They indicated that we were seeking two things in one application and they thought we should have sought one thing.

Madhuku said the court could have come up with a different verdict.

We obviously as lawyers and legal practitioners we respect the decision of the Constitutional Court and we are bound by it  We have already advised out clients and I think they will look at what it means. It would mean that the Constitutional Court has only thrown them out of the Constitutional Court and this does not mean that they will not get back to the Constitutional Court and then deal with the declaration.

He further noted that the Constitutional Court did not go into the merits of the case.

 The debate in court centered on the right that our clients were insisting on  the right to a free and fair election. That is what was at stake and that right is provided for in Section 67 of the Constitution. Then on the other hand, there was an issue of whether or not the delimitation report is invalid. This is what our clients outlined. The outlines were found in their actions on the basis of the invalidity of the delimitation report.

Madhuku said both issues were not decided on Monday.

There was no decision on the court which says their right was not infringed. There is no decision on the court which says the delimitation report is valid. That has not been decided. What has been decided is the technical. What we were supposed to write. Its a matter that has been decided purely, wholly and exclusively on technical issues.

He said they will take the matter to another court.

Obviously we have seen what the court wants. One of the issues that they thought should happen is for the High Court to first issue a declaration on the validity of the delimitation report. Our clients ate very clear that they would want the delimitation report attended to by court and a declaration of invalidity and for that reason they will have to go to the High Court.

At the same time, the Constitutional Court dismissed another matter filed by Jeremiah Bamu, who was seeking an order to compel ZEC to conduct the forthcoming elections as per some provisions of the countrys constitution.

One of his attorneys, Wilbert Mandinde, told reporters in Harare that the court noted that Bamu, as a legal practitioner, was supposed to represent himself in the matter and not see legal counsel.
Ukraine air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlin's forces killed three civilians, officials said Monday on the eve of traditional Red Square commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has routinely turned to Irans Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said.

The Kremlins forces used tanks, drones, mortars, warplanes, multiple rocket launchers and surface-to-air missiles to bombard Ukraine, the report said.

Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

In addition, six Russian rockets also struck the eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk during the night, a regional official reported Monday.

The missiles targeted the citys industrial zone and caused no casualties, Donetsk regional governor Petro Kyrylenko said in a Telegram post.

Russian authorities were preparing for celebrations on Tuesday of Victory Day, Russias most important secular holiday, amid tight security. Many regions have canceled their May 9 observances because of concerns the events could be targets for Ukrainian attacks.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

On top of that, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Zelenskyy equated Russias goals in Ukraine with those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the frontline southern Zaporizhzhia region, towards the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city some 100 kilometers southeast, it said.

The report came just days after Yevhen Balitsky, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region, ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there on Friday, including Enerhodar which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to occupied Crimea.

In a separate development, the Russian military command has promised the Wagner Group, a private military company, additional ammunition and equipment for its offensive in the eastern city of Bakhmut, Wagner founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin said in an audio statement published by his press service.

The statement Sunday came just days after Prigozhin on Friday threatened that Wagner fighters may pull out of the embattled city, where they have for weeks been Russias main assault force. He accused Russias military command of starving Wagner of ammunition and causing it heavy losses.

The threat marked another flareup in Prigozhins long-running dispute with Russias regular military over credit and tactics in the war. In the statement Sunday, Prigozhin claimed that Russian defense officials have since committed to providing the mercenaries with ammunition and equipment, as much as is needed to continue and given Wagner a free hand to take operational decisions in Bakhmut.

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Serious stuff. Photo: Melinda Sue Gordon/Universal Pictures

Christopher Nolan is going nuclear. No, hes not (still) upset about Tenets pandemic-era release (though he did permanently abandon ex-BFF Warner Bros., which he believes bungled the palindrome movies release). His next film, Oppenheimer, follows the titular J. Robert Oppenheimer, one of the theoretical physicists credited with being the father of the atomic bomb, and his role in the Manhattan Project  ya know, the top-secret nuclear research and development program ran by the U.S. government to develop the apocalyptic weapons. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prizewinning book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and the late Martin J. Sherwin.

Nolan partnered with Universal Pictures to finance and distribute the film, which he also wrote and directed, after ditching Warner Bros.  with whom he made the Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Dunkirk, and Tenet  over the latter films aforementioned release. But that doesnt mean hes ditching his Nolan-y aesthetics. Like his previous flicks, its an event film. Think fiery explosions and pensive landscape long shots and Cillian Murphy voice-over and an obsession with the mysteries of space-time, all captured on Imax large-format film by previous collaborator Hoyte Van Hoytema. Plus, music by Tenets (and Black Panthers) Ludwig Goransson. Below, the mind-blowing trailer, cast, plot, and release-date details for Oppenheimer.

Has the trailer dropped?

A movie about nuclear research and armaments gotta have a trailer befitting the topic. The latest shows a man more assured that the destruction power of the bomb is a necessary evil. Were in a race against Nazis, and I know what it means if the Nazis have a bomb, he says. We have one hope. Oppenheimer sits at a postwar congressional hearing at the end of the trailer, realizing the gravity of what they created. In the first full look from December 2022, we saw an Oppenheimer who, despite creating the incredibly destructive weapon, seems a little concerned about its deployment. The very first shot is the blaze of a detonated nuke, followed by a close-up of the embattled scientists eyes and falling rain. We imagine a future, and our imaginings horrify us, he says in voice-over as researchers assemble the bomb. They wont fear it until they understand it. And they wont understand it until theyve used it. He doesnt know if we can be trusted with such a weapon. But we have no choice, he contends.

Who else is in the cast?

An all-star cast. Cillian Murphy, longtime Nolan collaborator (Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Dunkirk) and Peaky Blinders star, plays Oppenheimer. Plus, theres Emily Blunt, best known (by me) for The Devil Wears Prada, and, more recently, for her turn in The Quiet Place. She plays Oppenheimers wife, Katherine. The most unbothered star of this years Venice Film Festival (Florence Pugh, duh)  remember when she strutted the carpet in a purple matching set clutching an Aperol spritz during a worrying press tour?  appears in the film as Jean Tatlock, a psychiatrist and physician who has a complicated relationship with the titular character. Iron Man Robert Downey Jr. is Lewis Strauss, a businessman and philanthropist who became a major figure in the development of the bomb.

Academy Awardwinning actors Matt Damon (Good Will Hunting) and Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody) star as well, with the former playing Manhattan Project director Leslie Groves. Uncut Gems Benny Safdie is Edward Teller, a Hungarian physicist. Shakespeare enthusiast Kenneth Branagh appears as well, alongside Josh Hartnett, Dane DeHaan, Jack Quaid, Matthew Modine, Alden Ehrenreich, David Krumholtz, and Michael Angarano.

If half of Hollywood took a role in Barbie, then the other half got a job in Nolans Oppenheimer.

How is Christopher Nolan going to pull off a nuclear explosion?

Not CGI. The film re-creates the first-ever nuclear-weapon detonation without the use of computer graphics for filming purposes. Visual-effects supervisor Andrew Jackson had to rack his brain on how to film the effects practically, from representing quantum dynamics and quantum physics to the Trinity test itself, to re-creating, with my team, Los Alamos up on a mesa in New Mexico in extraordinary weather, a lot of which was needed for the film, in terms of the very harsh conditions out there  there were huge practical challenges, he told Total Film. We still dont know how exactly he created the look-alike bomb, but we will soon.

When will Oppenheimer be released?

The film blasts into theaters July 21, 2023.

This post has been updated.
Photo: Adama Jalloh

Spoiler alert: This story contains major character and plot details.

Of the television creators whose work possesses the authorial stamp and social heft needed to sustain an academic conference, as well as the fan devotion required to make them household names, Shonda Rhimes is in a tier with only Norman Lear. The Chicago screenwriters first megahit, the long-running medical drama Greys Anatomy, premiered in 2005, while her most obsessed-over follow-ups, Scandal and How to Get Away With Murder, redefined appointment viewing for the Obama era. Each took audiences on a savvy, soapy ride through the work and sex lives of a refreshingly multiracial cast of horny careerists while hauling in millions of dollars and eyeballs for ABC. (A lineup so strong the network gave Rhimes her own night: TGIT, or Thank God Its Thursday.) But after a public falling-out with her longtime creative home, Rhimes left network TV for Netflix in 2017.

The diamond of that deal so far has been an adaptation of the Julia Quinn period romance Bridgerton, now heading into its third season, a pandemic hit for Rhimess Shondaland production imprint but one she had never actually written for. That changes with its new six-episode prequel, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, in which Rhimes uses the prickly, slightly unhinged monarchs origin story to elaborate on one of the series haziest questions: Why are there so many Black aristocrats in Regency-era England? The show (and a new companion book co-written with Quinn) features all the Rhimes hallmarks: attractive young protagonists whose open disdain for one another belies the even more obvious sexual electricity; an interracial romance set against a backdrop of professional and political intrigue; quippy repartee; women learning how powerful they are, and the forces that complicate and constrain that power; and steamy bedroom interludes. But the romantic fantasy of Queen Charlotte traverses somber new ground, balancing a sweeping view of history with a more intimate exploration of grief, regret, and painful decisions. (Bridgerton mainstays Lady Agatha Danbury and Lady Violet Bridgerton get thorough backstories here as well.) Rhimes sees the series as being of a piece with Shondalands bigger mission in TV: Im really not interested in doing something weve done before.

I was watching The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement yesterday and noticed some parallels with Queen Charlottes story  a young woman coming into her own and facing new royal responsibilities, a romance with someone she clashes with initially.

You know what? That didnt even occur to me. There are maybe parallels with Julie Andrews, who played the queen of Genovia. I was fascinated by how constrained she was by her job and her stature.

Why did you want to write this part of the Bridgerton saga yourself?

It started with a request from Ted Sarandoss late mother-in-law, Jacqueline Avant. Theres such a beautiful, complex story to be told about a young Black queens rise to power. Golda Rosheuvel is so amazing as the Bridgerton-era Charlotte that I started to think I would love to know her journey, especially since we know how it turns out.

How much of your creative decision-making is a response to what you know fans want?

I think Im pretty famous for being a person who says I dont pay attention to fans. I dont mean that in a bad way; I mean, the only way I know how to tell a story is to sort of be its keeper, and I therefore cant take in all the outside influences from peoples reactions to the story. It doesnt help me in figuring out a way to be creative in my job.

Theres hearsay and rumor that the real Queen Charlotte had Black ancestry. Did that inspire the casting in the initial seasons?

I dont believe its hearsay and rumor. I know there are a lot of people who believe its absolutely fact that shes from Black Portuguese royalty, and there are some who just cant accept that. The idea that that would make her their first Black royal was very interesting to me. When we were putting Bridgerton together, we werent doing color-blind casting but wanted to build a reason for why Queen Charlotte was there.

Were there historical consultants on set or in the writers room?

We dont have a room. It was just me toiling away with another writer, Nick Nardini, over Zoom and email. Every script went through the historian Polly Putnams hands, and theres always a historian on set to help the actors understand the social rules of this world  what to do with your hands, how you use your gloves. But we strayed in the costumes for Bridgerton because we wanted to create a different look, especially with all the wigs. We did that purposely.

Id imagine out of necessity, too.

Yes. It didnt feel right sticking them with the hair of people theyre not. I strayed because we are in an entirely different era, and I wanted the world to feel grounded in both wardrobe and hair. Bridgerton showcases a world that has a heightened style, especially for hair. I wanted to see Black women in their full glory  celebrating their hair is an important part.

Cheat Sheet Talk of the Ton Some of Lady Whistledowns favorite subjects and sources, then and now. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix. Artworks: Johann Georg Ziesenis (Queen Charlotte); Jean-Etienne Liotard (George)

Do real-world debates over so-called critical race theory, book bans, and how U.S. history gets taught in schools figure into how you construct this fictional world?

Theres no good way to say this, so Im just going to say it: I do not concern myself with the interests and thoughts of racists when I am incorporating ideas into my storytelling. Its not worth anybodys time.

Not even as pushback?

I think my very existence is pushback. Every show Ive ever made is pushback because it was made by a Black woman and all the characters everybody seems to love are written through the voice of a Black woman.

How do you decide what to include or omit from real history?

I never set out to do a biopic, The True Life of Queen Charlotte. Nobody knows what the real Charlottes conversations were like with George or what their love life was like or how she felt showing up there. So I was excited to fill in all the blanks of a character wed already created.

The basis for this European aristocracy that Bridgerton places Black people at the top of was a violent colonial empire that Black people were actually at the bottom of. How do you decide how much of that specific history to engage with?

Part of what made me interested in this subject is I found an old book that really laid out the roles that people of African descent played in that era. It also talked about their systematic erasure. There were so many successful Black composers; lots of rich African people sent their children to England for boarding school. Those things existed, and I was amazed to find they did. What I wanted to explore was, What happens if you unerase that erased history?

Whats happening in Queen Charlotte and what happened with Meghan Markles introduction to the British royal family seem like an inescapable parallel that people are going to draw.

Meghan Markle did not enter into it. My brain mostly thinks in terms of American politics, unfortunately, so I was really thinking about what would happen if this girl, Charlotte, came to America and was married off and how that was handled.

What romantic fulfillment do you think audiences get out of watching Black people occupy that eras European ruling class?

Honestly, I have never thought about it that way. I dont necessarily think about what audiences enjoy. Im interested in seeing worlds where Im involved  a show thats about more than girl meets guy; guy gets girl.

Do you see portrayals like this as representing social progress?

Im not looking at anything as an act of progress in terms of the stories were telling or who Im putting at the forefront. It is so basic, in the sense that Im telling stories I want to watch. I dont have the arrogance to think, Oh, its all me and my thoughts. But the stories were putting out are clearly striking a chord. I want to see stories about women in power, about women of color in power. Im not necessarily thinking about how they are received.

The older Queen Charlotte is pretty ruthless, especially with her 15 children. Some describe her as unlikable.

Im amused that people think Charlotte is unlikable because I always thought she was terribly likable, even in Bridgerton. But I think women have just as much right to be unlikable and unsympathetic as men, and thats not a thing a lot of people seem to think is okay. Charlotte was who she was. Shes fully formed, in a lot of ways, by grief and pain.

In this show, I wanted people to understand that it wasnt just cruelty  this is a world where people didnt really care for their children because they didnt necessarily know them; they were raised by somebody else. Its heartbreaking to discover that young Agatha hasnt had a chance to know her four kids. All that most of these women had was getting married: If you dont get married, you dont get any money, you might not have a place to live, and you always have to depend on another relative. So for them, the workplace is the marriage market. It felt vital to show how small their worlds were. Charlotte didnt marry her love. Shes thrown into a situation, and the question is, How do you survive that? Its not a romantic comedy. We all know how George turns out. Were not telling a story where they lived happily ever after.

How involved were you with casting India Ria Amarteifio and Arsema Thomas?

Casting, plus writing and editing, is my wheelhouse. Arsema was just incredible when she came in. This was her first job out of school. I couldnt believe it. Its always about finding an actor who has real range, not somebody whos interested in being liked. She was all about the work and approaches everything very intellectually  she asked me more questions than anybody, and I loved it because she was really trying to come to terms with the reality of Black England back then.

India had that kind of sparkle that makes you want to watch her all the time. But more important, she really seemed to understand from the very beginning, even in the audition rooms, the work of taking a character thats so well known and so specific down the road and moving backward to figure out how that person would start out. I wasnt trying to humanize Charlotte as much as I was trying to tell the story of what was most important to her and what she felt needed to be accomplished. In Bridgerton, were seeing her front-facing self. We never see her with kids. In Queen Charlotte, were in the back of the house.

Cheat Sheet Talk of the Ton Some of Lady Whistledowns favorite subjects and sources, then and now. Photo: Courtesy of Netflix

A big part of Lady Danburys role is bringing Charlotte back down to earth by articulating the long-term implications and future uncertainty around this so-called Great Experiment in integration.

Thats part of the essence of their friendship. What does Charlotte know coming into this? She lived in a province in Germany where her family was royalty. Shes never even had to deal with this racism. Shes very naive, and Agatha has been around the block. Her initial excitement that the queen can be an agent of change, her upset at discovering that Charlotte hasnt consummated her marriage, isnt because, like, Oh gee, you got to  Its because the entire future of people of color in London is dependent on her actually being queen. She needs her bloodline to continue.

Was the affair between Lady Danbury and Violets father always part of their backstory?

I didnt even know I was going to do it until I got to episode five of Queen Charlotte and was actually writing it. I felt like Agatha had to have a moment of joy. She was married off to a man who I assume is very nice but who is old and old-fashioned enough not to realize that her pleasure comes into account. Most men were like that if you didnt marry for love.

Are you mostly figuring out story lines from episode to episode, as opposed to having a grand plan from the beginning?

I have not written an outline in 18 years because every time I did, I would stray from it so much. I discover a lot in the writing. I want to see where these characters go, and Im not going to force them into some plot point.

You were a candy striper as a teenager and then created Greys Anatomy. Did those experiences inform your approach to this era in medicine and the sometimes brutal treatment of King George by his personal physician, who in the show subjects the king to a pretty intense regime of physical and psychological torture?

We did a lot of research, even going into learning who the doctors were and the kind of treatments they were giving George, how badly they were treating the person whos supposed to be ruling the country just to make him sane  that stuff was really interesting, and a lot of it was very real. Ive always been fascinated by how medicine has progressed. Theres never been a specific diagnosis for what King George had. Those doctors literally didnt know what anything was; they thought it was humors, whatever that is, and a lot of other things. And for Corey Mylchreest to portray that was very difficult, I think. We dont know quite whats wrong with him, but we know what a lot of his symptoms were.

My way of having Charlotte be a part of that world was her understanding that shes powerful enough to put a stop to these things and realizing that she and George are going to be living with this for the rest of their lives. She doesnt have a solution. Shes got to figure out a way to keep him king because it was a real political concern, which is almost life and death at that period.

Theres a running debate in cultural criticism about whether popular media has gotten sexless over time. Do you agree, and if so, why do you think your shows have managed to be an exception?

I must have missed that, but I think the reason  and this is what Ive heard  why actors have been saying they dont want to do these scenes is because they dont have any control. And where else should you have the most control than over your own body and how its seen?

I say to actors all the time, If you want to do your scene in a snowsuit, then well figure out how you can do your sex scene in a snowsuit. No ones making you do anything. None of these story lines are dependent on you being willing to take your clothes off for the camera.

In the later timeline, Queen Charlotte features an unusually direct engagement with sexuality and desire among older women, at least for TV.

I find it appalling that women of a certain age are never the center of these stories. I love when Lady Danbury says, Lady Whistledown never writes of our hearts. We are untold stories, because thats very true. Their love lives are not of interest. Watching Violet and Danbury discuss who they are and what theyve missed in terms of romance and sexuality was really powerful.

Something I always found irritating  and I dont mean irritating, but irritating  is that Bridgerton is focused on this younger set, but thats because everyones job is getting these young people married.

Theres a Hollywood parallel here.

I dont think I was trying to make that commentary, though obviously that is there because its a thing that bothers me  not just about Hollywood but about the way we look at women in the world. Most of the stories told about women are about a mans fantasy of what a woman is. But the idea that theyre only interesting if theyre a hot 25-year-old is sort of disgusting because it suggests that the rest of women dont participate in the world in that way. I like telling stories about that.

You signed an overall deal with Netflix when Netflix was seen to be doing really well, but lately there has been lots of news about its financial struggles. Have you felt that squeeze as a showrunner?

No. I hate to say this because I certainly cant speak to anybody elses experience, so I dont want to seem to be suggesting this is the experience for all people at Netflix. But weve seen no difference. Theyve just always been really supportive of the stories we tell.

What are the logistical differences between working in network TV versus streaming?

Theyre completely different engines. ABC was a very powerful, very storied institution. Theres a ton of bureaucracy. The process was you get answered no initially and then you have to find your way. Even getting Scandal to start what was live-tweeting, they were like, Why would anybody do that? No. And then they came around to a yes, but we just did it on our own until they saw it. We accomplished a lot in terms of exploring a womans right to choose, stuff I thought was just storytelling but turned out to be a real sort of quiet battle on my part to make happen on TV.

Netflix was a baby in this business. They start with yes and then figure out how to make something happen. And the attitude of a place that says yes has a lot to do with your enthusiasm for doing the projects.

Is there a big budgetary difference?

One of the reasons I was so obsessed with Netflix in the beginning was somebody told me The Crown had a $12 million budget for one episode. I just couldnt get over it. That is so much money. Think about what you could do with a much bigger playground.

As the boss at Shondaland, how do you avoid becoming the kind of gatekeeper that you would have been frustrated to run up against when you were coming up?

Im really not interested in doing something weve done before. I think thats a lot of what gatekeeping is  you prefer the kind of shows youve already made. I also make it a point to have much younger people than me on my staff, who have very different viewpoints. I like to be argued with.

What would it take for you to buy a network or platform yourself? I know BET is looking for buyers.

A whole lot more money than Ive ever been willing to spend on anything. Also, I am a storyteller at heart. One of the reasons I moved from ABC to Netflix was because I had so much other stuff to do. I was responsible for 70 episodes of TV a year. It was a lot. I cant say I didnt I love every minute of it, but I was really burning out and almost not enjoying storytelling anymore. Getting to make shows that I love, thats good enough for me.

This interview has been edited and condensed.
Photo: Nina Westervelt/Variety via Getty Images

Spoilers follow for Succession season four, episode seven, Tailgate Party.

The Roys arent used to being challenged. They were raised by wolves  pirates who have politicians in their pockets and endless cash at their disposal. But theyve never dealt with anyone like Lukas Matsson, the billionaire founder of tech company GoJo who cares not at all about social niceties and is extremely amused by the idea of stripping Waystar Royco for parts. Since Matssons introduction in Successions third season, Alexander Skarsgard has played the Swedish coder and offensive tweeter with a smirking disregard, sneering bad brand to Kendall and Roman about their fathers lifes work in one minute and flirting with Shiv by insulting her husband in another. Its not about, Ooh, I gotta make more money, Skarsgard says. He just enjoys the chaos of it all. He wants to go bananas.

Matsson is unpredictable, and in Tailgate Party, hes also revealed to be a liar, falsely doubling GoJos subscriber numbers in India to juice his companys value and ensure the Waystar acquisition goes through. For Kendall and Roman, who want to retain control of the company, that little bit of intel from GoJos communications director Ebba (Eili Harboe)  Matssons ex and the unwanted recipient of his frozen blood bricks  is a new way to blow up the deal. For Shiv, who wants the billion-dollar payout of a company sale and has been feeding Matsson dirt about her CEO-bros, the Swedes untrustworthiness is a new concern. For his part, Skarsgard is leaning into Matssons eccentricity and ambiguity.

Lukas rolls into the Roys election tailgate party wearing a metallic-gold bomber jacket, which is so different from everyone elses suits and business attire. Did you help choose it?

The genesis of how we ended up with that jacket started last season, when Logan and Roman go to see Matsson at his villa at Lake Como. Matsson is incredibly casually dressed, in slides, a T-shirt, and some old sweatpants, and that was actually my own clothes  the whole outfit. Its what I came to set wearing that morning. We tried a couple different outfits, but at some point I told Jonathan Schwartz, the costume designer, Can I just wear my own stuff today, because I feel that is kind of perfect for Matsson? I wanted it to be a nice contrast to the Roys, who are always so immaculately dressed. There was something about that juxtaposition that was quite interesting: Theres high-stakes gambling, a big negotiation going on, and hes doing it with his fucking dirty feet out. I thought that was quite funny.

That got me creatively excited about leaning heavier in that direction. When the Roys come to Scandinavia, we wanted it to be very Fjallraven, Scandy outdoorsy stuff. After that, when you see him at the party, I wanted to lean heavier on an amalgamation of very casual but also peacocking. Hes wearing sweatpants and sneakers, and the sweatpants might be $10 or $10,000. You dont really know. I wanted something eccentric and crazy when it came to the jacket, something that really stood out, because the Roys are always so understated. Its that kind of classy, downplayed, very, very expensive, but no logos, nothing ostentatious because its tacky. I wanted to give that a big fuck you and walk in wearing something completely different.

Also, knowing that everyone else in the room would be sycophants and vultures running around the Roys, itd be fun if Matsson comes in like a sore thumb. I had a couple of conversations with Jonathan about finding a piece that really stood out, and when we found the golden jacket, it felt like the perfect one.

Everyone is taking the tailgate party really seriously. But Lukas is smiling and laughing the entire time, even after saying, The numbers will be real, probably. How central to your performance is that Lukas never really seems to be taking anything seriously, that he treats everything the Roys do as a joke?

Theres something so interesting about a character who is a very savvy, intelligent businessman, but is also so reckless and unhinged. Maybe thats also part of his success. He enjoys the chaos of it all. Some things might work out, some things might not, but he moves fast, and I think he really enjoys that. Shit, if the numbers arent real, they might be tomorrow. And if theyre not, itll be fine, because well come up with something else. Theres something quite refreshing about someone conducting himself that way. Hes got so much capital that he can break a lot of things and still be fine  its a tsunami of ideas and thoughts.

Did you research any other tech bros to see how they act or see how they dress?

I didnt model Matsson after a specific guy in the industry. But I definitely got inspiration from watching some of the most famous characters in tech and how they conduct themselves and dress. Maybe at some point I saw one of them wearing some crazy, stupid outfit and that inspired me a little bit.

Shiv confronts Lukas after she learns GoJos subscriber numbers in India are padded, and its the first time we see him rattled. How did you and Sarah work together on that scene?

Ive really enjoyed working with Sarah. I didnt get a chance to do it last season  I met her briefly in Italy but we didnt have any scenes together. I was thrilled when this story line started to develop this season, that I was going to spend more time with her on set. We dont really rehearse much. Sometimes, if its a longer scene, well cold-read it in the makeup trailer in the morning. Well go through it to find the banter and find the cues. But the fluidity of it all, we will find on the day. Working with an actor of that caliber makes my job easy because shes so generous and you get so much coming at you that reacting will make it fun and creatively fulfilling. She might do it one way the first take and then go a completely different direction. My responding to that hopefully creates something that feels interesting.

You two have such great chemistry, in a way that I cant figure out if I want to see you fight or kiss.

[Laughs.] We tried to find that weird gray zone where there might be sexual tension, but its not explicit. You dont really know whats going on: Is it acrimonious, or are they aroused by this, or is it just a business deal? Jesse Armstrong and the other writers do that so well: Nothing is on the nose. Its subtle and open to interpretation, and that is why I find the writing so extraordinary.

You also have scenes where Lukas and his right-hand man Oskar are speaking Swedish together. Are you and Johannes Haukur Johannesson improvising at all, or are those conversations tightly scripted?

No  Johannes is from Iceland. Eili Harboe, who plays Ebba, speaks Swedish fluently, so theres a bit more room to go off the page and improvise and play around with it. Johannes understands Swedish and hes conversational, but hes not completely fluent. Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian are quite similar languages; Icelandic is a Nordic language thats related, but its quite far removed from Swedish. With Johannes, we would come up with something he could say and then he would rehearse it. We couldnt go completely wild with those improvisations.

Forgive me, that was my American person who only speaks one other language question.

Well, I dont blame you for not understanding Icelandic. [Laughs.] Theres not many people who speak Swedish on the show. He sounds great, but hes not completely fluent in the language.

How were you and Eili able to play around more?

We took the weird dynamic between Lukas and Ebba that started with the blood bricks. Its such a complicated relationship. He can be abusive to her and incredibly charming, and she can take advantage of him  in one moment shell be very upset with him, and the next it seems like theyre best friends again and everything is forgiven. Shes obviously got this leverage she can use, of having more of his blood than he does, and that almost excites him. Its disturbing, and theres a complexity to that relationship that was a lot of fun to explore.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Photo: David M. Russell

In Wambsgans Watch, we weigh in on the state of Tom Wambsganss relationships in each of the remaining episodes of Succession. Spoilers follow for episode seven of season four, Tailgate Party.

In this weeks Succession, Tom and Shiv played a verbal game that was less playful and sexually charged than Bitey but definitely left marks.

It was quite a steep ride down from where Tom and Shiv started this episode  basking in a post-reconciliation-sex afterglow that involved elegant breakfast trays and sexting (It was like the orgasm Olympics, wrote Tom; Sorry if I broke your dick, replied Shiv)  to where they ended it: saying the worst possible things to each others faces. It was far more savage than watching them sink their teeth into each others forearms. In fact, their whole argument, performed with cutting urgency by Matthew Macfadyen and Sarah Snook, may have been one of the most savage things thats ever happened on Succession. And this is a show that once made grown men fight over sausages on the floor.

Shiv and Tom could come back from this, theoretically. But something about Toms willingness to throw the entire conservative-media elite out of their apartment  a thing he would normally never do out of fear of offending a potential ally  makes me think hes finally hit his limit with this marriage. It is completely understandable that hes upset by the events that transpire at this tailgate party that has zero tailgate vibes whatsoever. Tom is tired, the kind of tired where you cant stop talking about how tired you are, the kind of tired where you go, Im pre-tired. Im tired from thinking about how tired Im going to be. I have been pre-tired many times. It is a real thing!

In this exhausted state, hes forced to deal with a cavalcade of callbacks to people and objects that previously caused him insecurity in his marriage: Nate, the man with whom Shiv cheated; Matsson the Striking Viking, who shows up unexpectedly to this gathering of smuggalos; the shitty Germanic wine made at Toms and Shivs vineyard, which Tom tries desperately to pawn off on as many guests as possible. Is Toms desire to push the light, fruity red a practical choice just to get it out of the apartment, or is it symbolic of his interest in putting the past behind him and forging a less, um, acidic future with Shiv? Both?

But the undeniably worst part is the spreading of the narrative that Tom will be fired once the deal with GoJo is finalized, a bit of gossip Shiv refuses to squash. This eventually gets back to Tom  Dont mind me, he says when Roman and Kendall ask to speak to Shiv privately, Im getting fired  and its just too much indignity for this tall, very pre-tired man to take. He looks around that party for someone who doesnt think hes a clown. But unlike Connor, he cant find anybody, including his own wife.

Will you explain to me the joke? he asks Shiv when she tries to suggest that going along with the firing talk is somehow a gag, an excuse similar to the one she offered in season three when she told Tom that saying she doesnt love him is foreplay: Just being horrible for fun.

During their explosive argument, Shiv whips out every awful adjective to describe Tom, words she knows represent his worst fears about what other people think of him. She calls him a hick, striving and parochial, someone who betrayed her and stole the last six months she could have spent getting closer to her father.

But while Shiv throws punches, Tom fires gunshot after gunshot.

You are incapable of thinking about anybody other than yourself because your sense of who you are is that fucking thin. (True. Is this also true about Tom, as Shiv suggests? Yes, absolutely.)

I think you can be a very selfish person and I think you find it very hard to think about me, and I think you shouldnt have even married me, actually, Tom says. Tom is right! Shiv made him feel insecure in the marriage from the minute it started by waiting to share her doubts about monogamy until their wedding night.

You are incapable of love, and I think you are maybe not a good person to have children. This one really hurts because it comes so close to echoing what Shivs mom said to her in Italy: Some people just arent made to be mothers. Its also terrible because, at least as far as we know, Shiv is still pregnant, though of course Tom does not know that. But as knife-twisting as this zinger is, its true. Shiv cannot put another persons needs before her own. No one in her family ever showed her how to do that.

Sometimes in a relationship, you can air all your grievances, then figure out how to work through them. Other times, the wounds from the words dont heal. For Shiv and Tom, this might be one of those times. I am not sure Tom is going to want to keep playing along and standing by Shivs side as he tries to navigate the new ATN, and I doubt Shiv will want him there. It would not surprise me if Tom exercises some leverage by letting Kendall and Roman know that their sister has been serving as a mole for Matsson. Tom has tipped off a family member about Shivs secret maneuvers before. He could very well do it again.

So, who is Tom Wambsgans fucking with this week?

Well, for starters, he was clearly fucking with Waystar Royco employees by asking Greg to fire a bunch of them on Zoom while Tom pretended to wah-wah like a baby off-camera. How dare Succession do this just when its making Tom relatable!

But more importantly, he was fucking big-time with Nate, the same guy Tom booted out of his wedding with the threat, If I ever see you in the same room as Shiv again, I will pay men to break your legs. He did not pay anyone to break any of Nates limbs, but he did try to kill Nate with false kindness, offering him a full glass of wine as opposed to making him pour the remainder of one back into the bottle. I wont drink too much of your wine, Nate jokes, which prompts Tom to sell his shit-wine even harder. Its the kind of wine that separates the connoisseurs from the weekend Malbec morons, he says, not very subtly implying that Nate is absolutely a weekend Malbec moron. Nate responds by being thoroughly unintimidated and, in his refusal to make deals with Kendall, proving he might be the only person at that party with a teensy bit of a moral compass. Good try, Wambsgans!

Who is fucking with Tom Wambsgans?

In addition to Shiv and the members of the New York media community invited to this party, Lukas Matsson is definitely messing with our boy Father Sexmas. On at least one level, Matsson operates in the same way the Roy siblings do: getting off on making others feel uncomfortable and small. During party conversation  Toms opener to their chat: Im tired  Matsson asks Tom whether he sees his role at ATN as hands-on or more akin to an overview guy. Instead of committing to an answer, Tom does what he always does: tries to be whoever the person in front of him wants him to be.

Let me ask you this, he says, sounding like hes stalling. What would you value more highly?

Matsson accuses Tom of kissing his ass, and even though Tom charmingly denies that, it feels like hes already lost the Swedes respect, particularly when Shiv strolls up and Matsson tells her, Im about to take a shit in your husbands mouth and Im pretty sure hes going to tell me it tastes like coq au vin. Shiv is also obvious about her interest in taking advantage of her connection to Matsson, but much more confident in this regard than her husband. When he basically asks her to sell her skills to him, she says, Im hot shit and ready to go without flinching.

By the end of the episode, both Shiv and, weirdly, Greg have earned more respect from Matsson than Tom.

How fucked-up are things between Tom and Greg?

The most notable Tom-Greg moment in this episode comes when Tom suggests Greg should decide whether hes siding with Matsson or Kendall and Roman, a duo Tom describes as the dumpster brothers. Greg, already assuming Matsson hates him and always will, says hes Team Kenro. But after vaping with Matsson and his boys, and representing himself as the John Wick of firing people, Greg seems to have forged a potential Matsson alliance.

TL;DR: Greg is in a position where he can float  terrifyingly mosey?  between sides while things shake out, whereas Tom seems less primed to do that. Maybe Tom should start being nicer to his Greg-lette.

At the end of this episode, how fucked is Tom?

Tom has everything to lose, and he knows it. Thats one reason he is so irked by Shivs panic about her Matsson alliance blowing up. You will be okay because youre a tough fucking bitch who always survives because you do what you need, Tom says, and once again he is right. Maybe shell have slightly less money, but Shiv will always have enough money and the status of being a Roy. If Tom is no longer connected to Shiv and lacks other company allies, its hard to see how he comes out of this merger bloodbath  unless, again, he outmaneuvers Shiv.

At the end of the episode, though, it doesnt seem like Tom even cares about that. When he chokes out the words, You have hurt me more than you can possibly imagine, it feels real. He genuinely loves Shiv.

When Tom gave Shiv that weird scorpion enclosed in glass, a wrapped party pressy for being such a hot piece of ass, at the start of the episode, I thought of the argument Shiv and Tom got into on their wedding night. She described marriage as fear and jealousy and revenge, and control, and they all get wrapped up in really nice, fucking wrapping paper and it just looks really lovely and nice, but when you open it up 

Love. Its bullshit, Tom told her. But I do love you.

That scorpion is an acknowledgment of all the fear, jealousy, revenge, and control that characterizes their relationship. It calls to mind that famous fable about the scorpion and the frog, where a scorpion promises not to sting a frog if the frog gives the scorpion a ride across a river. It wouldnt make sense for the scorpion to hurt the frog during their journey because then they will both drown, the scorpion argues.

But of course the scorpion stings the frog anyway, and as theyre both dying, explains that he couldnt help it. Its in his nature. Obviously Shiv is the scorpion in this scenario. But she and her frog havent drowned yet. Its still possible for Tom to summon his inner scorpion and sting her first.
US national security advisor Jake Sullivan discussed efforts to end Yemen's eight-year war during a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the White House said in a statement.

The meeting Sunday night in Saudi Arabia came during a tense period for US-Saudi ties, marred by disputes over human rights issues and oil production.

Sullivan and Prince Mohammed "reviewed significant progress in talks to further consolidate the now 15-month long truce in Yemen and welcomed ongoing UN-led efforts to bring the war to a close", the White House statement said.

Since 2015, Saudi Arabia has headed a coalition in Yemen to support the internationally-recognized government and topple the Iran-backed Huthi rebels who seized the capital the previous year.

But a truce that went into effect in April 2022 has largely held despite officially expiring in October.

Last month, Saudi envoy Mohammed Al-Jaber led a delegation to the Yemeni capital Sanaa to negotiate with the Huthis and "stabilise" the truce.

The delegation left without a new truce deal but with a commitment from the rebels to hold a second round of talks, according to Huthi and Yemeni government sources.

Saudi Arabia is widely believed to be seeking a military exit from Yemen, and analysts say efforts to negotiate with the Huthis were given a boost by a surprise Chinese-brokered rapprochement deal between the kingdom and Iran announced in March.

Saudi Arabia has also played a major role in the international response to fighting in Sudan that broke out last month, hosting in Jeddah since Saturday the first direct talks between the warring sides.

Riyadh has also dispatched naval and commercial vessels to bring thousands of people from numerous countries across the Red Sea to Jeddah from the Sudanese coastal city of Port Sudan.

Sullivan "thanked the Crown Prince for the support Saudi Arabia has provided to US citizens during the evacuation from Sudan", the White House statement said.

Along with Saudi leaders, Sullivan met with counterparts from the United Arab Emirates and India "to advance their shared vision of a more secure and prosperous Middle East region interconnected with India and the world", the White House statement said.

US news outlet Axios reported on Saturday that the meeting would examine a possible joint infrastructure project linking "Gulf and Arab countries via a network of railways that would also be connected to India via shipping lanes from ports in the region".

The talks were also expected to touch on "the possibility of further normalization steps between Saudi Arabia and Israel", Axios said.

The official Saudi Press Agency said the US delegation included Brett McGurk, National Security Council coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, and Michael Ratney, Washington's new ambassador to Riyadh.

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Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban-appointed government have agreed to boost trade and lower tensions along their border amid a surge in militant attacks on security forces, officials said Monday.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, struck the deal

Sunday in Islamabad, according to Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. The agreement is designed to improve bilateral trade, combat terrorism and boost bilateral ties.

Local media reported that Muttaqi on Monday urged Pakistani authorities to consider holding talks with the Pakistani Taliban, who are a separate group.

There was no immediate response from Islamabad. But earlier talks hosted by the Afghan Taliban in Kabul had proved futile. Since then, Pakistan has said there will be no talks with the militants known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

Pakistan has recently expressed concern over a surge of attacks by the TTP. Islamabad has demanded the Taliban in Kabul do more to rein in the group, which has stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

At the end of the Pakistan-hosted mini-summit of China, Afghanistan and Pakistan, the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad on Monday issued a joint statement.

It said the three sides stressed the need to prevent any individual, group or party to use their territories to harm and threaten regional security and interests or conduct terrorist actions and activities. These include the Pakistani Taliban and the ethnic Uighur militant group, called the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

It said all three sides underscored the need to refrain from intervening in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and to promote Afghan peace, stability and reconstruction.

The diplomats from the three nations agreed to further deepen and expand their cooperation in the security, development and political domains based on the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed consultation and mutual benefit."

Earlier, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi also held talks with China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang, a departure from recent years when such dialogue had been on hold, according to analysts, who say China is expanding its influence in the region.

China also has played a role in the resumption of Saudi-Iran diplomatic ties.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, a sprawling package that includes such projects as road and power plant construction and boosting agriculture production.

The package is considered a lifeline for this impoverished Islamic nation, which is currently facing one of its worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the ancient Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Qin arrived in Islamabad on Friday and met with President Arif Alvi, Foreign Minister Bhutto Zardari and Pakistan's powerful army chief, Gen. Asim Munir. During these meetings, he was assured that Pakistan will boost security for all Chinese nationals who are working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

According to a Foreign Ministry statement, Bhutto Zardari and Muttaqi on Sunday held a candid and in-depth exchange on key issues of mutual concern, including peace and security, as well as trade and connectivity." The two sides reaffirmed their desire to pursue continuous and practical engagement," it said.

According to the Afghan embassy, Muttaqi and his delegation met with Bhutto Zardari and other officials. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, Afghan-Pak political, economic, and transit relations as well as challenges of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan have been discussed, it said on Twitter early Monday.

Pakistan's military said Muttaqi also met with Munir, the army chief, to discuss "issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalization of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment. Munir sought enhanced cooperation to effectively tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism," the statement added.

Relations between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have featured ups and down in the past year.

In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and trucks carrying food and essential items.

After a Pakistani delegation traveled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week and Muttaqi's visit to Islamabad was planned.

Afghanistan's Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since seizing power in August 2021, when US and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war.

The Afghan Taliban has banned girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barred women from most jobs and public life.

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These days, federal budgets are just as much marketing and media management exercises as they are financial and economic documents. Thats because the spin doctors role has become central to the way Canberra works. This is just as true under Labor as the Coalition. Media management is a characteristic of government by the two-party duopoly.

Budgets are actually the management plan for controling the governments spending and tax-raising over the coming financial year. Because you cant do a budget without first making guesses about what will be happening in the economy at the time, the budget documents contain detailed economic forecasts and commentary about what it has supposed will happen.

These days, budgets  and the days leading up to them  are highly stage-managed by the spin doctors. Credit: Getty Images

These forecasts are taken very seriously on budget night, but rarely referred to again. Thats because this era of dominant monetary policy (manipulation of interest rates), conducted by an independent central bank, means its the Reserve Banks forecasts that matter.

Weve had those already, on Friday. The financial markets care more about the Reserves opinions than the governments because theyre always trying to guess what the central bank will do to interest rates. Whats more, the RBA revises its forecasts quarterly, so the budget forecasts soon become outdated.
Welcome to Quick Q  Monday Medias weekly Q&A series dedicated to finding out more about the personalities that matter most in the Australian media landscape.

Every week The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age ask key figures across corporate media, business, sport, federal politics, radio, television and culture to answer questions about their lives, careers, hobbies and news habits.

This weeks conversation is with Jase Hawkins  one half of KIIS 101.1s breakfast show, Jase & Lauren.

Jase Hawkins is one half of KIIS 101.1s breakfast show, Jase & Lauren. Credit:

How did you get your big break?
For instance, we have free mental health support lines and even free quit smoking help lines, but little support is provided to those with an unhealthy weight or low physical activity levels, points out Jane Martin, the executive manager of the Food for Health Alliance (previously Obesity Policy Coalition). Theres been a lot of finger-pointing at individuals, and its a little bit like climate change  an individual cannot solve that, Martin says. We have such a broad problem across the population. This is not a lack of willpower. This is a lack of government action and intervention to shift and shape our environment to support people to be healthy. For instance, telling someone they need to move more if they cant afford a gym membership and dont live in a walkable area or near a park they feel safe to exercise in, is useless. Professor Stephen Simpson, the academic director of the Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney, believes it could and should be done, but says there are many factors working against people making them. For instance, telling someone they need to move more if they cant afford a gym membership and dont live in a walkable area or near a park they feel safe to exercise in, is useless. Similarly, it is an uphill battle to tell someone to lose weight when they are up against a $550 million annual budget spent promoting junk foods, which are both inexpensive and accessible and are designed to make people crave more of them.

So, what can be done? There needs to be a considered strategy that includes a myriad of approaches, community players and messages, says Barrie Elvish, the CEO of AUSactive, Australias peak body for the exercise and active health sector. And, he adds: It needs to be in place for at least five years to instil the necessary change in behaviour. Otherwise, they are doomed to failure and will only add to the publics cynicism. Jones explains that many previous physical activity campaigns have failed because there was no framework in place to support the changes they were encouraging. An example of a campaign that has been effective in creating change is the COVID campaign: When we said get tested, and we actually had testing facilities, she says. And we told you where they were, and we made them available. We gave out free RAT tests, and we said get vaccinated and provided vaccine clinics. So instead of shaming people for not exercising enough or for getting takeaway foods when they are low on time and budget, a better approach would be to invest more in safe parks and walkable areas, in low-cost exercise classes and in making fresh food more affordable and accessible.

It can be done, Jones says. It is possible to help people to achieve these sorts of targets and have an impact. Martin adds that there are cost-effective and simple policy levers that have not been pulled yet, like a levy on sugary drinks. Its been estimated that itll raise $815 million dollars that could then be fed back into health promotion, she says. Another change Martin would like the government to support is protecting children from the marketing of unhealthy food on television and digital platforms. Weve got the solution sitting there on a shelf, she says, referring to the National Obesity Strategy, which outlines a range of ways to support change and improve the health of our environment.

But, Martin says, the government is yet to outline an implementation plan and allocate funding: It has to be a priority because if we dont act now its going to continue to get worse. And thats what the AIHW report has told us. Mark Butler, the minister for Health and Aged Care, said the government was committed to the National Obesity Strategy, and its targets to halt the rise and reverse the trend in the prevalence of obesity in adults by 2030; and reduce overweight and obesity in children and adolescents aged 2-17 years by at least 5 per cent by 2030. We want a healthy, active Australia, he said in response to the AIHW report. We need to do more on changing the environments where Australians live, work, play and age in  to ensure they are empowered to lead a healthy lifestyle. We need to look at getting our kids moving the whole day. We need to address the negative stigma that overweight or obese Australians feel. And we know there is emerging evidence that genetics has a much bigger role to play.
Conservationists calling for a moratorium on logging the Gnangara pine plantation to preserve vital habitat for an endangered cockatoo species say they have been let down by the state government.

Member for South Metropolitan Brad Pettitt said a letter he received from Environment Minister Reece Whitby in March was a depressing response which shows an unwillingness to change to protect Carnabys black cockatoos.

Perths black cockatoos are running out of food, as their habitat dwindles across the city. Credit: Marta Pascual Juanola

The state governments own numbers show there could be a decline of up to 57 per cent in the northern population of birds, even with the small number of native seedlings being planted, Pettitt said.

This would be a catastrophic drop in the population of an iconic species.
Premier Daniel Andrews was asked about issues at the Victorian Building Authority last week and directed questions to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. She said Victorians expected their homes to be built to approved building standards and built to last  and that the regulator is functioning appropriately and effectively. I have been considering the Victorian Building Authoritys performance of its important regulatory functions and have sought advice from my department regarding the governance and management of the Victorian Building Authority. I will have more to say once I have received and considered that advice. Loading The Victorian Building Authority said in a statement that virtual audits complement the work plumbing auditors did on the ground and that site visits were still necessary. The statement said virtual audits were launched at the height of the pandemic to balance community safety with building checks. Where suitable, the Victorian Building Authority continues to undertake virtual plumbing audits, and maintains a presence on the ground at construction sites across Victoria, the statement said.

The building authority has been under the spotlight for its failures in the past 12 months: WorkSafe last year took the extraordinary step of issuing an order to provide a safe workplace for its 43 building and plumbing inspectors. That followed one of the authoritys most experienced and respected building inspectors Rob Karkut  under intense pressure from Victorian Building Authority managers to meet inspection targets  taking his own life last May. A WorkSafe report after his death found the Victorian Building Authority was an unsafe workplace due to managers pressing building and plumbing inspectors to tick off construction sites to meet ambitious targets set by the Andrews government. From 2020, the authority began putting pressure on inspectors to meet an Andrews government order that 10 per cent of all building permits issued each year be inspected. Conversations taped between Karkut and human resource officers at the authority three months before he took his own life reveal him telling them he had been pushed to the brink while trying to do his job as best he could.

Im at breaking point, Karkut said in a conversation that he informed his managers he was taping. The authority received multiple warnings of the stress Karkut felt he was under by the process of being performance-managed to meet inspection targets, despite 16 years as one of its building inspectors. Youre spending a lot of time going through my reports and checking them for minor detail. I think its over the top and really unrealistic and unfair, he said in one conversation. Andrea Holden, partner of the late Rob Karkut. Credit: Scott McNaughton WorkSafe found the watchdog was placing building inspectors at risk by demanding they finish at least three inspections a day, or, in the case of plumbing inspectors, five a day. It found that what was being asked of inspectors was not reasonable or achievable because the daily target included all administrative work, which is extensive if inspectors find significant faults, and because of the time needed to travel between jobs.

Karkuts widow Andrea Holden said building inspectors would suffer consequences if they didnt meet their targets. He was so particular. He couldnt shortcut jobs. They [inspectors] were all being pressured not to do their jobs, she said. When Karkut died, the authority was pushing him to visit more sites  despite him saying he could not properly monitor building standards and hit these target numbers. In recorded audio, Karkut told managers at the authority: Im trying to cover my backside because I think youre becoming unrealistic with your expectations. The Community and Public Sector Union represented Karkut at meetings with the authority. Team leader Andrew Capp said Karkuts death was entirely unnecessary, that the culture of the Victorian Building Authority was toxic, and that responsibility for that was not down to one person, but the lack of leadership at the organisation. Over a period of years there has been a distinctly anti-union attitude in different areas of the Victorian Building Authority which, quite frankly, Ive found surprising under a Labor government.

Asked last week about the situation at the authority, Andrews agreed there were issues. Loading The premier referred to Karkuts death when he was asked about the authority last week. There was a tragedy at the Victorian Building Authority not long ago and that exposed some very significant cultural issues there. There is a program of work thats underway to try and address those, Andrews said. Victorian Building Authority chief executive Sue Eddy was first appointed in 2017 and reappointed for another five years in 2022 by the authoritys board. On Friday, staff at the authority were told she was taking personal leave because of a personal family matter.

Asked what support Karkut was offered after telling a human resources officer and another manager he was at breaking point, the authority said all its staff had access to counselling through its employee assistance program. We continue to support our people and embed values and behaviours that ensure the Victorian Building Authority is a safe workplace, it said Five of the authoritys current building and plumbing inspectors, all of whom risk losing their jobs if their names are revealed, said the daily inspection targets were extremely problematic. One said it forced them to the brink of a dangerous dereliction of duty. One building inspector said the corners they were encouraged to cut were confronting: they were instructed not to inspect concrete slabs, or to conduct virtual inspections. The more defects you found, the longer an inspection would take because of the administration process needed, the inspector said. The questions over the states building inspection regime come amid wider concerns about consumer protection and the watchdogs regulation of builders who break the rules. One example is the owner of the now liquidated Shangri-La Constructions, Obaid Naqebullah  who until March 31 this year retained a Victorian building licence. A number of his buildings around Melbourne have had to be repaired.

In response to issues at an apartment building in Clayton, the VBA proposed Naqebullah pay a $54,000 fine and his building licence be suspended for six months. That was dropped to $20,000 and a three-month suspension after the builder applied for an internal review. The state planning tribunal reduced the suspension to a reprimand but upped the fine to $25,000. Naqebullah declined to be interviewed when approached by The Age. He no longer holds a building licence after surrendering it voluntarily in March. Tamara Railton-Stewart bought an apartment in a Shangri-La building in Caulfield South which was completed in 2015. She said Shangri-Las workmanship was so poor millions of dollars were spent fixing construction problems. Naqebullah declined to comment. Railton-Stewart spent three years communicating with the Victorian Building Authority about Shangri-La and her apartment blocks many problems  which ranged from flammable cladding and mould to flooding and structural flaws. That cladding has now been fixed thanks to spending by the owners with assistance from Cladding Safety Victoria, while millions of dollars in other repairs have been done to the rest of the building.
Western Australias nurses union has welcomed a McGowan government commitment to pay off large chunks of HECS debts for 350 nurses and midwives who ply their trade in regional areas.

However, at one-tenth of a similar Victorian commitment, the union said it fell short of what was necessary.

WA Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson. Credit: Peter de Kruiff

Following years of sustained criticism over its handling of the hospital system, the government has embarked on a health spending blitz ahead of the 2023-24 budget.

After last week revealing a $1.2 billion spending commitment on new health infrastructure, Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson on Monday announced $28.5 million to attract and retain nurses and midwives.
Catcha Group chief and co-founder Patrick Grove was not on hand to inspect the Darling Point house he purchased in 2017 for $28 million, but bought it anyway knowing it was to be demolished and rebuilt as his forever home.

The newly built house on the Darling Point waterfront is listed for $70 million. Credit:

But no sooner have the finishing touches been added to the waterfront house than the internet entrepreneur is still not here to take up residence, and is instead still based in Singapore, where he recently added the role of company chairman to his bow.

If six years is a long time in the fortunes of our tech class, its even longer in Sydneys trophy home market where an expensive site acquisition, no-expense-spared build and good dose of inflation have prompted a $70 million guide by exclusive listing agents Michael Pallier and Francis Egan, of Sothebys.

Groves purchase of the 669-square metre property in 2017 ended almost 40 years of ownership by the Meagher family, headed by the late hotelier, Alan Meagher.
A steer was also jabbed with a metal prod over 60 times and had its tail yanked forcefully after a failed stunning attempt at an abattoir near Jakarta.

The vision, collected undercover by the Asian arm of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in April and May 2021 and published by this masthead in November that year, showed cattle still kicking up to five minutes after having their throats slit and, in one filmed incident, being hoisted and hacked at with a knife while still moving.

Singapore: An Australian government investigation has found violations of live export trade standards at seven Indonesian abattoirs where Australian producers sent cattle, after assessing shocking footage captured inside slaughterhouses on Java and Sumatra.

A new report released by Australias Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry determined there were systematic issues at the facilities, one of which had committed a major breach of Australian governments Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS) standards while all were guilty of minor non-compliance.

It identified non-compliant slaughter procedures at all the abattoirs and excessive and inappropriate use of force at two of them. It also found that workers at six of the seven had failed to properly perform checks on consciousness before slaughter and on death after slaughter. The report said it was not possible to fully assess the state of the cattle but it appeared likely cattle were unconscious before slaughter and dead before dressing  the stage at which they are cut up for processing.

The footage taken of Indonesian abattoirs was handed to the Australian government in June 2021. Credit: PETA Asia

However, it discovered inconsistencies in exporters interpretations of animal welfare rules especially regarding procedures by abattoir staff to assess unconsciousness following stunning and verify death following slaughter.

It also revealed that an Australian exporter had recognised ear tags in the video from an abattoir that it did not have approval to send cattle to at that point. The exporter discovered the cattle had been sold to that slaughterhouse by a butcher who falsified traceability documents, according to the government report.
In the time it takes you to read this article, two more Russian soldiers will have been killed or wounded in Ukraine, based on the Pentagons latest estimate of the rate of casualties from December to April.

The assessment of 20,000 killed and 80,000 wounded in those months represents an acceleration in the rate of carnage among the Russian forces, roughly double the pace of the wars first nine months.

Illustration by Dionne Gain Credit:

Vladimir Putins henchman, commander of the Wagner Group of mercenaries Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Friday said that without sufficient ammunition his troops were doomed to perish senselessly. With these four words, Prigozhin has written the draft epitaph for Russias army.

The two defining features of Putins invasion are its savagery and its senselessness. The arrest warrant that the International Criminal Court issued against Putin charges him with the war crime of seizing Ukrainian children and deporting them to Russia on a mass scale: There are reasonable grounds to believe that Mr Putin bears individual criminal responsibility for stealing Ukraines children, said the court. Ukraines authorities say that the Russians have taken at least 20,000 of their children.
At least 100 people were killed in clashes that erupted last month between armed fighters in a city in Sudans restive region of Darfur, according to the Sudans Doctors Syndicate.

Hospitals were still out of service in the Darfur city of Genena and an accurate count of the wounded was still hard to make, the doctors union added in a statement posted on their official Facebook page late Sunday.

The fighting in Genena, which broke out a few days after Sudans two rival generals took arms against each other in Khartoum, pointed to the possibility that conflict in the capital could spiral to other parts of the East African country.

At least 481 civilians were killed in Khartoum clashes that erupted in mid-April between the military, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, according to the same doctors statement. The number of the wounded among civilians has jumped to more than 2560.

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From 1 to 5 May 2023, the Ethiopian Customs Commission (ECC) hosted WCO risk management experts at their headquarters in Addis-Ababa. The experts worked together with ECC to contribute towards one of EECs objectives under the WCO A-CIP Programme, Risk management capacity strengthened. This priority is driven by the need to increase the use of automated and dynamic risk management systems and consolidate risk management competencies (including building analytical skills) amongst all internal technical areas and is in line with the Reform and Modernization key factor of the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration.

During the week, a series of meetings were held between WCO risk management experts and representatives from the ECC Risk Management, Post Clearance Audit, Authorized Economic Operators and Intelligence teams. There were presentations and discussions on the use of data, cooperation between the different teams and the available IT systems. The purpose was to establish the processes regarding ECC work on risk management and identify areas for improvement. Special attention was given to the eCMS system, the ECC clearance system, which contains modules for risk management, risk analysis and the offence register, among other modules. The approach uses fixed risk criteria to scan every incoming declaration in the system. It has proved to be a successful tool in enhancing revenue collection.

A final meeting was held with Mr. Azizew Chanie Abebe, Deputy Commissioner of the Customs Operations Division and other officials. Everyone expressed gratitude for a week full of fruitful meetings and open and rewarding discussions. Since this mission was mainly about fact finding, the participants ended the week hoping for further cooperation between the ECC and the WCO in the field of risk management in support of their reform and modernization initiatives to promote integrity within the institution.

The WCO A-CIP Programme is currently supporting more than 20 WCO Member administrations, with funding from Norad and Canada. For more information, please contact: capacity.building@wcomod.org.
At the invitation of the Vice-Chair of the WCO West and Central Africa (WCA) region, WCO Secretary General, Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, attended the Regional Conference of Directors General of Customs, held on 4 and 5 May in Banjul, The Gambia, and hosted by the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA).

The President of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Adama Barrow, opened the Conference by underlying the crucial importance of Customs, and the need of regional administrations for capacity building.

The Commissioner General of the GRA, Mr. Yankuba Darboe, spoke about the progress made by his administration, particularly in terms of human development, with the support of the WCO.

The Vice-Chair of the WCA region and Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali, stressed the importance of regional cooperation while thanking GRA for its hospitality.

Secretary General Mikuriya also thanked the GRA for its warm welcome, highlighted the relevance of the WCO theme of the year, Nurturing the Next Generation, for Customs administrations in Africa, and underscored the huge potential for growth in trade with a young population.

The Conference reviewed the regional strategic plan and took several decisions on Members contributions to support regional capacity building activities, as well as regional representation at the WCO.
The healthcare subfund of The Sovereign Fund of Egypt (TSFE) and B Investments company have entered into a partnership with El-Ezaby pharmacy chain to launch a new company to provides business-to-business (B2B) services in the Egyptian pharmaceutical sector, the TSFE announced in a statement on Monday.

According to a press release on Monday, the new company, named EZ International, will provide pharmaceutical companies in Egypt with a slew of services, including logistical and administrative support to distribution and trade services to grow their businesses and ensure customer satisfaction.

EZ International will serve over 500 pharmacies in Egypt, starting with more than 250 branches affiliated with El-Ezaby.

The new company's launch will be funded by increasing the capital of TSFE and B Investments by an undisclosed amount.

TSFE collaborates with only the top experts and specialists to ensure that its projects are successful and create real and positive social impact through distinctive services at competitive costs, which contributes to achieving the states goals and the states ownership policy document TSFE Chairperson and Minister of Planning Hala El-Said stated.

As stated in its State Ownership Policy Document, Egypt is aiming to raise the private sector's share in the national economy to 65 percent, up from the current 30 percent.

Egyptian pharmaceutical sales reached EGP 170 billion ($5.5 billion) in 2022. Egyptian pharmaceutical exports are expected to increase by five percent every year in the next three years, according to the Information and Decision Support Centre (IDSC).

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The White House and Congress could strike a deal to raise the debt ceiling in exchange for budget cuts. Or they could agree to a stopgap measure to keep paying the nations bills while negotiations continue. They also could let the negotiations unravel, sending the economy into a chaos.

As President Joe Biden prepares to meet with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the congressional leaders this week for the first time over the debt ceiling crisis, the options for easing out of the standoff are many.

But the political incentive for compromise is harder to come by, with no easy endgame ahead of a June 1 deadline to raise the debt ceiling or risk defaulting on the nation's $31 trillion debt.

We have to avoid default, period. Full stop, the House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said over the weekend.

At Tuesday's first high-stakes meeting, it's extremely unlikely there will be any quick resolution. Biden and the big four congressional leaders of the House and Senate will convene at the White House with neither side yet signaling a willingness to budge off their opening positions.

Biden wants Congress to simply raise the debt limit without any strings attached, while Republicans led by McCarthy are insisting on budget cuts in exchange for any votes to allow more borrowing to pay the nation's bills.

Instead, the expectation is that the Democratic president Biden and Republican House speaker McCarthy will at least be able to set aside their differences and agree to launch a process for negotiations that could begin to form the contours of a deal to avert a debt ceiling crisis.

But with tensions high and the outcome uncertain some lawmakers are considering unprecedented proposals, even including one that would allow Biden to bypass Congress invoking his responsibilities under the 14th Amendment, and simply raise the nations debt limit on his own.

The endgame is highly uncertain, but the political terrain is familiar for the White House and Congress. The once routine vote to raise the debt ceiling has increasingly been wielded as a powerful moment of political leverage to extract policy priorities that otherwise would not likely become law.

Republicans have put down their opening bid, a sweeping proposal that would slash $4.8 trillion off the federal budget over a decade by rolling back spending to fiscal 2022 levels and capping future spending at 1% a year resulting in steep cuts to programs and services.

The Republicans refuse to simply raise the debt limit on its own, and are demanding budget cuts and other party priorities.

The House Republican-passed bill would drop millions of Americans from health care, food stamps and cash assistance programs by imposing additional work requirements that many would be unable to meet. And it would undo much of Biden's climate change agenda.

Senate Republicans are backing up their House Republican colleagues, announcing they will not advance any bill that raises the debt ceiling without substantive spending and budget reforms.

In a letter from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and signed Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, the 43 GOP senators said they are united behind the House Republican conference in support of spending cuts and structural budget reform as a starting point for negotiations on the debt ceiling.

Biden and Democrats have also dug in, refusing to debate over the debt ceiling, though they have opened the door to negotiations over spending levels as part of the regular budget process.

We, of course, are open to having a discussion about what type of investments, what type of spending, what type of revenues are appropriate, Jeffries said. Thats a process that is available to us right now.

Time is short for any deal. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has said that come June 1, there would simply not be enough cash on hand to meet all of the nation's obligations. Financial and economic chaos would ensue, she said over the weekend.

The House and Senate arrive back at work Tuesday, but they are in session together just eight days before the Senate breaks for the Memorial Day recess the week of May 22 with the House set to recess the following week.

Both Biden and McCarthy have insisted they will not allow the country to default on its obligations. What's different about this round of talks is that it's being led by McCarthy, debuting after his tumultuous battle to become House speaker.

To win the gavel, McCarthy made steep concessions to the hard right Freedom Caucus and other conservatives who make up his slim majority, and who can threaten to oust the speaker if he negotiates a deal they are unwilling to accept.

While Biden had a willing partner in past budget showdowns negotiating with McConnell, the Senate Republican leader is keeping a lower profile enabling McCarthy to take the lead. But the threat hanging over McCarthy from his far-right flank could leave him unwilling or unable to strike a compromise with Biden.

House Democrats have pushed forward a process that would force a vote on a clean debt ceiling increase they prefer, but it's a cumbersome procedure that would be a longshot in the Senate, where Democrats have only a slim majority and need Republican support to advance most bills.

Asked about the 14th Amendment proposal, Biden said in an interview Friday that hes not there yet.

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A peaceful evening, in honour of peace.

Thats what Joe Hube and his friends were hoping for when planning their latest fundraiser for Ukrainian Relief.

Happening on May 27, at Grimsbys Mountain Ridge Community Centre will be an evening of meditation and reflection.

Hube said the event will use singing bowls, gongs, and chimes, as guests experience guided meditation.

He came up with the idea after speaking with Denise Blaney from The Sound Healing Instrument Shop in Beamsville.

They've had life-changing experiences with meditation and with sound baths and with yoga and such, and theyre great proponents of it, he said. They volunteered to put on this event and make it into a fundraiser for Ukrainian relief, which is something I care and a group of us care a great deal about. So, it worked out very well.

The beauty of holding such a peaceful event in honour of hoping for peace in Ukraine is not lost on Hube.

When Hube and his friends first heard about the conflict in Ukraine, they couldnt get it out of their heads.

I just think the whole thing is so sad and so unjust, he said. Ukraine was a modernizing country and society and it's just being destroyed one day after another. I'd like to do anything I can to try and raise awareness and raise funds to try and help people. My impression is that the need is never going to end in my lifetime, and I just can't stand by and watch.

Tickets for the meditation event are $45 and are available on Eventbrite.

Attendees are asked to bring a yoga mat, pillow, blanket, and anything they need to make themselves comfortable.

This isnt the first event Hube and his friends have hosted for Ukrainian relief.

A series of spin classes they hosted over a weekend back in April ended up raising $4,700 for Ukrainian humanitarian charities.

Hube said theyve also managed to secure a sponsor in BCU Financial, a credit union that services the Ukrainian Canadian community in Ontario. He said theyve been matching donations raised at these events.

In addition to the meditation event and the spin class event, Hube is also hoping to bring back last years popular Niagara Sunflower Festival for Ukrainian Relief in August at London Born Winery.

The perfectly Instagram-able event had hundreds of people stopping by for photos, and Hube said they sold a couple hundred bouquets of sunflowers.

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Rex Taylor, a proponent of affordable housing, and Pamela Vega of Climate Action Newmarket-Aurora stand by an official plan amendment application notice on Green Lane. The duo are concerned about proposed development on Newmarket's borders sparking urban sprawl, land being taken out of the Greenbelt and the impact on Newmarket services.







Over the next three decades, Newmarket residents will see significant development on the towns doorstep in King Township and East Gwillimbury.

That has many people concerned about the impact on Newmarkets services, municipalities inability to pay for amenities through the development charges on which theyve traditionally relied, sewage capacity restraints, and the loss of Greenbelt lands.

Newmarket, with the slowest growth rate in York Region, has a population of 91,500. By 2051, thats projected to be almost 116,000.

Meanwhile, as the fastest growing municipality in Canada, East Gwillimburys population of 37,600 in 2021 is expected to reach 127,700 by 2051.

Much of that growth will take place just north of Newmarket, such as Redwood Properties proposed 3,000-unit development north of Yonge Street and Green Lane.

Kings population of 27,800 in 2021 is forecast to reach 50,300 in 2051.

Last November, the provincial government infuriated many when it announced 15 parcels of Greenbelt lands would now be developed as part of Queens Parks push to build 1.5 million homes over the next decade to address the housing crisis.

That comes as Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, exempts developers from paying some development charges, the fees on new construction to help fund municipal infrastructure and amenities.

One of the Greenbelt parcels is in King at Bathurst Street and Millers Sideroad on Newmarkets western border.

While its not yet known how many homes will be built there and if the site will house the new Southlake Region Health Centre, development on the site will be significant.

The site is far from other King communities so residents could turn to Newmarket for services, Mayor John Taylor said.

And it could rob Newmarket of sewage allocation it needs for new development, making it impossible to meet the provinces mandate to add 12,000 homes to the town by 2031, he said.

Taylor sees a big difference between the long-planned development in East Gwillimbury and the isolated pop-up growth at Bathurst and Millers Sideroad on Greenbelt lands in King.

All the growth concerns longtime Newmarket resident Rex Taylor, a supporter of affordable housing, Pamela Vega, a Newmarket member of Climate Action Newmarket-Aurora, and Claire Malcolmson, executive director of the Rescue Lake Simcoe Coalition.

While new housing is needed, they argue planning experts insist there is enough land available within existing urban boundaries to accommodate growth, including intensification that maximizes taxpayers dollars invested in transit and other infrastructure.

Until Premier Doug Ford reneged on his promise not to allow development on the Greenbelt, the environmentally sensitive lands were off limits to large scale urban development and stood as an international model, Taylor said.

People need to remember that the Greenbelt is not some sort of radical, lefty, tree-hugger thing. There are really sound economic reasons for its existence. It saves hundreds of millions of dollars annually in flood mitigation alone. And for these reasons and others, you could say that protecting the Greenbelt from development is actually a very conservative, fiscally responsible thing, he said.

I suspect that a lot of people who voted for the Tories in the last election, in part because of Fords solemn promise, have a case of buyers remorse today.

It makes no sense to build on the Greenbelt and put the environment and farmland at risk when the focus should be on building compact, walkable communities, Vega, a Newmarket resident, said.

Building into the Greenbelt will only build more of the same old, same old and create outdated and unsustainable forms of living, she said.

Malcolmson believes East Gwillimbury is the poster child of urban sprawl and feels the King development is just a new subdivision hiding behind the prospect of a new hospital and will result in a subdivision relying on Newmarket for services.

This is the way you wreck towns and it's the province doing this, not the mayors and councils, she added.

John Taylor, who argues housing of all types is needed as the Greater Toronto Area is North Americas fastest growing area, stressed that if growth is going to happen, its crucial the province ensure municipalities have funding sources to provide transit, roads, recreation centres, seniors housing, rental housing and other services.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: We felt it would be meaningful to Newmarket residents to know what development is expected on the town's northern and western borders over the next three decades.

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There are still details to examine but the Ontario governments commitment to emphasizing mental health and wellness within the education system is a good step forward, say Niagara school boards, experts and community partners.

Not only will it address mental health issues exacerbated by the pandemic but will bring awareness to the classroom with a goal of building resiliency to ensure young people grow into healthy adults.

Andrea Bozza, mental health lead for Niagara Catholic District School Board, said curriculum changes and additional investment is excellent news.

Its so critical that students learn those healthy coping strategies, stress management skills, helping seeking behaviours, she said. Its very exciting. Were in a time where, obviously, were happy to have the funding but how we implement that funding is going to be the key.

Last week, Queens Park announced new curriculum for elementary and high school students beginning in 2024. It includes updates to the required Grade 10 career studies course, as well as mandatory resources for teachers and students on mental health literacy for grades 7 and 8.

Students in career studies will learn about identifying signs of distress and mental health resources, and elementary curriculum will include additional activities, videos and information to learn about managing stress, recognizing symptoms and finding support.

While not completely new  in 2019 the province added mental health and wellness expectations into Grade 7 and 8 physical education and health curriculum  Bozza said it is about mental health promotion and awareness. And having School Mental Health Ontario consult and collaborate to develop evidence-informed tools and resources is really exciting.

We are happy about that because it really does ensure that well be getting research-focused, identity-affirming resources implemented in our schools and itll be consistent, said Bozza.

The rollout itself is unclear, but expectations are training will start with board mental health leads, who will bring it to school leadership teams.

We have the support in place already. The hope is that we can grow our team with additional support, that would be fantastic, but its also really to maintain and sustain the team that we have right now with this permanent funding to ensure that they can continue their work with our students, she said.

While it is a positive start, more needs to be done, said Michael Savage, associate professor in the department of education studies at Brock University.

Grade 10 is a good spot to introduce serious mental health issues, as that is the age when symptoms can start presenting themselves. That part of mental health literacy is very, very important to make sure symptoms are understood, recognized and know where to get help, he said.

But Savage also would have liked to see an infusion of mental health and wellness education through the entire school curriculum, in developmentally appropriate ways, to create habits of wellness in students.

Anxiety isnt a bad word. If you dont deal with anxiety or you are overly anxious and it prevents you from doing things or interferes with things (but) a little bit of anxiety is actually good, he said.

He has questions about how the curriculum will be implemented and the support that teachers, some of whom are struggling with their own mental health, will receive from the province and school boards. Savage would like to see an investment in teacher training, both for those on the job and in teacher training programs.

The government also announced it will give school boards funding to provide psychological and mental health services over summer months.

Savage said that is a welcome step, leading to a continuity of care, but it does not address inequities at school boards, with about one in 10 schools in Ontario not having access to a regularly scheduled mental health professional.

More rural areas or racialized areas, more refugees areas, have less supports in the school already. If you dont have them already there, providing them in the summer isnt going to help because theyre not there to begin with, he said.

Niagara Catholic uses a referral-based model with nine regulated mental health professionals serving its eight secondary schools and 50 elementary schools, and 25 child and youth workers. It also works with mental health nurses through a community partnership.

Bozza said funding to assist through the summer months could potentially assist with community wait-lists and address access to services.

The hope is that the funding can help us with support, but also in resources for not only all of our students, but our marginalized students or students who may be at higher risk, she said.

District School Board of Niagara said it is receiving just more than $2.1 million for mental health and well-being. Communications officer Carolyn LoConte said every public school has access to regularly scheduled mental health professionals, such as a social worker or youth counsellor.

These staff are either assigned to support certain schools or are consistently on site, she said in an email. We believe that ongoing work in mental health and well-being is vital and helps ensure that students feel safe, connected and emotionally-regulated so they are empowered to focus on their learning.

Alisa Simon, executive vice-president and chief youth officer at Kids Help Phone, said since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the service has supported young people across the country more than 14 million times. The investments from the province to further mental health resources is important, necessary and welcome.

Investments in high school enables ongoing awareness and conversations with young people about mental health, meeting them where they are as they experience change and the world around them, said Simon.

Youth tell us every day they need caring adults, especially at school, to help give their feelings a place to go.

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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russia enacted a major security clampdown ahead of Tuesdays annual commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, curbing the use of drones and ride-sharing services in its largest cities  even jet skis on the canals of St. Petersburg  amid its 14-month war with Ukraine.

At least 21 Russian cities canceled May 9 military parades  the staple of Victory Day celebrations across Russia  for the first time in years, Russian media said.

Regional officials blamed unspecified security concerns or vaguely referred to the current situation for the restrictions and cancellations. It was not clear whether their decisions were taken in coordination with the Kremlin.

Last week, Russia  which hasnt witnessed the carnage endured by Ukraine during the invasion  was rattled by ambiguous official reports that two Ukrainian drones flew into the heart of Moscow under the cover of darkness and reached the Kremlin before being shot down.

Media and local officials have blamed other sporadic drone attacks, especially targeting oil depots near the two countries border, on the Ukrainian military. Kyiv officials decline to comment on such claims.

The fears of a possible Ukrainian attack appeared real, even though parades will go ahead in Russias largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. But the use of drones has been banned in both cities ahead of Victory Day.

In St. Petersburg, often referred to as Venice of the north for its network of rivers and canals, using jet skis in certain parts of the city is prohibited through May 10. In the Russian capital, car sharing services have been temporarily barred from the city center  drivers will not be able to start or finish rides there  amid preparations for the traditional Red Square parade.

Initially, only one foreign leader was expected to attend this years Moscow parade  Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, who arrived Monday and met Putin for talks. That was one more foreign guest than last year, when no leaders went amid Putins broad diplomatic isolation over the war. The Kremlin at the time said it hadnt invited any because it wasnt a round-number anniversary.

But on Monday officials announced that Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Tajik President Emomali Rakhmon would be joining Putin and Zhaparov at the festivities, along with Armenias prime minister, Nikol Pashinyan, and Kazakhstans leader, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

The latter two were surprising choices for the guest list as they have in the past diverged from Putins line. Kazakhstan and Armenia, though Russias allies, have not publicly supported the war in Ukraine. In fact, Tokayev has spoken to Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone several times throughout the invasion.

Tokayev also told Putin last summer that Kazakhstan would not recognize the Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states.

Armenia is a member of the Russian-dominated Collective Security Treaty Organization, but Pashinyan snubbed Moscow earlier this year by refusing to host the alliances military drills.

May 9 is normally a bank holiday in Ukraine, too, but not this year, because of the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday he had sent a draft bill to parliament proposing a Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II on May 8 and a Day of Europe on May 9, further distancing Kyiv from Moscow.

Zelenskyy equated Russias goals in Ukraine to those of the Nazis. Unfortunately, evil has returned, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. Although now it is another aggressor, the goal is the same  enslavement or destruction.

The European Unions Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is due to travel to Kyiv on Tuesday to mark Europe Day together with Zelenskyy.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian air defenses shot down 35 Iranian-made drones over Kyiv in Russias latest nighttime assault, as attacks across Ukraine by the Kremlins forces killed four civilians, officials said Monday.

Five people in the capital were injured by falling drone debris, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration. Air raid alarms sounded for more than three hours during the night.

Drone wreckage struck a two-story apartment building in Kyivs western Svyatoshynskyi district, while other debris struck a car parked nearby, setting it on fire, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said in a Telegram post.

Facing economic sanctions and limits on its supply chains due to its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has routinely turned to Iranian Shahed drones to bolster its firepower.

Russian shelling of 127 targets across northern, southern and eastern parts of Ukraine killed three civilians, the Ukrainian defense ministry said. Russian long-range bombers launched up to eight cruise missiles at Ukraines southern Odesa region, authorities said. One person was killed and three wounded.

Some of the Soviet-era cruise missiles fired against the Odesa region self-destructed or fell into the sea before reaching their targets, according to Ukrainian air force spokesman Yuri Ihnat.

Meanwhile, Russian-installed authorities have begun evacuating residents of Tokmak, a town in the front-line southern Zaporizhzhia region, toward the Black Sea coast, Ukraines General Staff said.

Those working for Kremlin-appointed local authorities, as well as children and educational workers, are being relocated to Berdyansk, a Russian-occupied seaside city some 100 kilometers southeast, it said.

On Friday, the Russian-appointed governor of the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region ordered the evacuation of civilians from 18 settlements there, including Enerhodar which neighbors the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Speculation has been mounting for months about the timing and focus of Ukraines expected spring offensive, with some analysts saying Kyiv might try to strike south into Zaporizhzhia in order to split Russian forces and cut Moscows land link to occupied Crimea.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

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If you watched the coronation ceremony on Saturday, youll know it wasformal, to say the least.

Oaths were made, hymns were sung, the King was anointed with a top secret oil blend behind privacy screens, and a treasure trove of ancient regalia was gingerly maneuvered around a 750 year old abbey. Solemn and meaningful, yes, but going by the very serious expressions of everyone in the audience, a lively old time it was not.

The coronation proper was all about harking back to the (literal) majesty of monarchy, acknowledging the weight of a thousand years of tradition and inherited privilege that led to a 73-year-old man, wearing his grandfathers cape, dedicate himself to service after waiting his whole life for this moment. The looks of faint overwhelm on both Charles and Camillas faces indicated the magnitude of this moment. The world was certainly watching: In Britain, it was the most watched event of the year, although it missed the numbers set by Queen Elizabeth II's funeral by a wide margin.

After crowns had officially been placed on heads, however, the royal family instantly shifted gearsnot quite back down to earth, but certainly back into the 21st century. For Prince Harry, it was even quickerhe was back to California on the next flight out, not even pausing for a mini quiche and awkward small talk at a post-coronation lunch with the rest of The Firm.

All of the other events that came after it seemed expressly designed to move us swiftly onward, lest we start to think too hard about all of that divine right stuff. Republican protests over there? Look, its Lionel Richie, belting out All Night Long at a special concert as the royal family bops along!

In fact, it felt like the royals couldnt throw off their velvet robes fast enough, dedicating the remainder of the weekend to convincing us that, archaic rites aside, theyre really just like us, celebrating a long weekend with a cheeky sing-along, a meal with neighbours and a touch of volunteer work.

Hear ye, hear ye: The best bits from the post-coronation events.

The immediate aftermath

The Prince and Princess of Wales, as always, were tasked with leading the relatability charge. Even before they circulated among the hoi polloi on Sunday, Will and Kate released a behind-the-scenes video of their family heading off to the big event, showcasing Princess Charlotte's and Prince Louiss very sweet excitement, and making the Prince and Princess look like any other harried parents trying to wrangle everyone into the car for a special occasion. (Will has big Dad rushing everyone to the airport five hours before a flight energy, no?)

The big lunch

When we were watching the coronation, all we could think of were all the women standing on that stone floor in stiletto heels. Fast forward to the day after, and Kate rolled up at a Big Lunchbasically, street parties organized all over to celebrate the coronationin a pair of Vejas sneakers.

For the walkabout, where they surprised folks whod gathered on the Long Walk at Windsor Castle, Kate looked a world away from her custom Alexander McQueen finery in a blue Reiss blazer (ticking off another of her go-to British brands) and a white T. She and William chatted, mingled, took selfies and even drank out of paper cups, making William kneeling before his father and promising to be his liege man of life and limb an increasingly fuzzy memory.

The coronation concert

Despite rumours that several high-profile acts (Harry Styles, Adele) had turned down an invite to perform, sparking fears itd be a right royal flop, the Coronation Concert looked like a pretty fun night, featuring performances from the likes of Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Nicole Scherzinger. (Not quite A+ list acts, well acknowledge, but maybe the palace was just really inflexible in accommodating riders?) It even attracted a respectable television audience, with around 10 million tuning in to the BBC broadcast.

It was also a chance for the royals to toss the mystique out the window and reveal their humanity through that universal mechanism: Awkward concert dancing, complete with singing along, whether you know the words or not.

As with the Platinum Jubilee concert last year, it was the youngest royals who stole the show, looking every kind of adorable as they bopped along to the music, waving Union Jack flags.

Kate continued to cycle through her patriotic palette, this time wearing a red Alexander McQueen suit shes worn before. Continuing a theme set by their coronation ensembles, Princess Charlotte was dressed to match her mother, in that she wore a dress by Kate-fave British brand Self Portrait.

William was, once again, tapped to play a pivotal role, paying tribute to his father and grandmother with a brief speech that tugged at royal heart-strings. "I know she's up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. She would be a proud mother," Will said, also concluding with, "Pa, we are all so proud of you." Charles seemed chuffed, and Kate got visibly emotional as he spoke.

RELATED STORIES World Prince Louis steals the show (again) at the coronation

Was she thinking of the late monarch, whose absence made the occasion particularly bittersweet? Proud of her man? Desperately clinging to the dregs of her social battery? Either way, it might be the evenings most relatable moment.

The big help out

This coronations theme was service, hence a nationwide invitation to spend the public holiday Monday volunteering in the community. Pitching in and doing their part, we once again had the Prince and Princess of Wales out and about, who brought the whole family along to volunteer with the Scouts, including Prince Louis on his first ever public engagement.

The little prince did not shirk his duty. He was snapped shovelling dirt into a wheel-barrow, and even driving some heavy machinery, albeit with a hand from his dad. Later, Princess Charlotte tried her hand at archery, and she and Prince Louis made smores.

Literally getting their hands dirty alongside the common folk, the entire family was as dressed down as we ever see them. Katethis time in a blue shirt, lest the Scottish part of the Union Jack feel neglectedwore cargo pants and Blundstone boots, for goodness sake.

A woman who'll one day have her own coronation? Yes, but for now, she's just like us...ish.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  An investigation into Donald Trumps handling of classified documents has intensified in recent weeks, with prosecutors summoning a broad range of witnesses before a federal grand jury and zeroing in on questions of whether the former president or others obstructed government efforts to recover the records.

It remains unclear when the investigation led by Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith might end or whether Trump might face charges over documents found at Mar-a-Lago, his Florida estate. But as probes in Washington and Atlanta proceed, Republican critics of Trump see an opportunity for intensifying legal woes to take away his frontrunner mantle in the 2024 presidential race in a way that an earlier indictment in New York failed to do.

The ongoing investigations are the ones that have the meat, said Bobbie Kilberg, a longtime Republican donor who has become a vocal Trump critic.

Its very, very serious, she said. It ought to have a real impact on the American people. And if it doesnt, all I can do is shake my head in bewilderment.

A grand jury in the Mar-a-Lago case has heard testimony over the last few months from numerous Trump associates. Prosecutors have put before the panel a lawyer who helped respond to Justice Department demands for the classified documents last year, and have also been interested in Mar-a-Lago surveillance footage. At least one witness was asked to testify a second time, suggesting prosecutors may be looking to lock in particular testimony they view as useful, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss secret legal proceedings.

In a message Friday on his Truth Social platform, Trump accused Smith of harassing and threatening my people over the documents investigation, which he called a hoax. His lawyers have similarly sought to pre-emptively attack any indictment, telling the House Intelligence Committee in a letter last month that the Justice Department should be ordered to stand down from the probe.

Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement to The Associated Press on Monday that the investigations are nothing more than a targeted, politically motivated witch hunt against President Trump designed to prevent him from returning to the White House.

Investigators over the last year have cast a wide net. Theyve interviewed witnesses about Trumps handling of classified documents as president and about the response to a May 2022 subpoena that demanded the return of classified materials in his possession, people familiar with the matter have said. Theyve also sought to determine whether Trump took steps to hide any records taken to Mar-a-Lago or showed them to anyone, as part of a continued focus on possible obstruction.

Among the witnesses who recently testified was Matthew Calamari Jr., the director of security at Trump Organization, Trumps company, according to one of the people.

His testimony could be relevant because of prosecutors subpoena to the Trump Organization last year for surveillance footage from the Palm Beach property. Video reviewed by prosecutors showed a Trump associate moving boxes of documents out of a Mar-a-Lago storage room, prosecutors have said. Other media organizations reported that Calamaris father, also named Matthew Calamari, a Trump organization executive vice president, testified last week too.

A moment that underscored the gravity of the case came in March when Smiths team secured the testimony of Trump lawyer M. Evan Corcoran after convincing a judge in sealed proceedings that Corcorans legal services had been used in furtherance of a crime.

Corcoran helped draft a letter last June to the Justice Department attesting that Trump's team had conducted a diligent search for classified documents at Mar-a-Lago in response to the governments subpoena. At that time, the Trump team produced roughly three dozen classified documents, on top of 15 boxes of records returned in January 2022 to the National Archives and Records Administration.

But prosecutors suspected even more classified records remained. They obtained a search warrant last August and seized more than 100 additional documents.

In their letter, Trumps lawyers said that Corcoran expected investigators to return to Mar-a-Lago to go through any boxes of documents that remained, and that he and Trump understood this to be the beginning, not the end, of working cooperatively. Though the letter was addressed to lawmakers, it presumably includes arguments the lawyers would make to try to head off any potential indictment.

Prosecutors on Smiths team have simultaneously pressed forward with a separate probe into efforts by Trump and allies to overturn the results of the 2020 election, winning court orders to question key advisers and aides before the grand jury. Among the witnesses to appear was former Vice President Mike Pence, who two weeks ago spent hours inside the Washington courthouse.

In Georgia, prosecutors in Fulton County are investigating whether Trump or anyone else committed crimes in trying to undo his narrow loss in that state to Democrat Joe Biden.

The investigations are in addition to the March indictment from the Manhattan district attorney arising from hush-money payments during Trumps 2016 presidential campaign to a porn actor who alleged an extramarital sexual encounter with him years earlier.

Though a blow legally, the indictment seemed a boon for Trump in the Republican Partys evolving presidential primary contest ahead of the 2024 election. Trumps standing in the GOP had been slipping until he was charged, when suddenly, Republicans across the political spectrum rushed to defend him against what they framed as a questionable, politically motivated prosecution.

Today, polling suggests that Trump is the dominant frontrunner in the GOPs growing 2024 field.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Trumps chief primary rival, has struggled to maintain the same level of strength he wielded prior to Trumps indictment. But as the governor prepares to launch his campaign officially, his allies are quietly confident that Trumps baggage will eventually catch up to him.

Former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, a frequent Trump critic, described the New York indictment as somewhat of a swing and a miss.

But any further indictments prosecutors might bring, Duncan said, are going to be a whole different amplitude that hes gonna have to deal with.

___

Peoples reported from New York.

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LONDON, Ont. - An Ontario man who threw gravel at Justin Trudeau during an election campaign rally was sentenced to 90 days of house arrest on Monday, with a judge denouncing the 2021 assault as an expression of mob mentality.

Shane Marshall was handed a 90-day conditional sentence and one year of probation at his sentencing in London, Ont.

The former local riding executive for the Peoples Party of Canada admitted to throwing gravel at Trudeau as he boarded a campaign bus to leave a protest-marred rally in London ahead of the September 2021 election. Trudeau was hit by some of the gravel, the judge said, but left uninjured.

Justice Kevin McHugh said acts of violence against public figures are anti-democratic and need to be denounced in the strongest terms.

This was not an expression of political beliefs. It was a manifestation of mob mentality, which if left unchecked allows anarchy to prevail, McHugh said as he issued Marshalls sentence.

Marshall, 26, pleaded guilty to common assault in March, on the same day his case was set to go to trial and after a failed attempt to get Trudeau to testify. Marshall was originally charged with assault with a weapon.

His lawyer, Luke Reidy, applauded the sentence as fair and balanced, saying Marshall acknowledged the seriousness and potential danger of his actions. The Crown had asked for a 30-day jail sentence.

His goal now is to find a way to deal with his emotion, through counselling and to make sure this never happens again, Reidy said outside the London courthouse.

Asked whether Marshall had any plans to attend Peoples Party of Canada political rallies, Reidy said he has no immediate plans for that.

He definitely has to reconsider how he deals with his political positions, the lawyer said.

The Peoples Party of Canada has previously said it removed Marshall as riding association president after reviewing video clips of the stone throwing. The far-right political party ran on a platform that included drastically reducing the number of refugees and immigrants Canada accepts and repealing COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Elections Canada records list a Shane Marshall as the chief executive of the partys Elgin-Middlesex-London riding association during the 2021 election.

Court heard Marshall was an out-of-work plumber with no criminal record who was living with his mother. He declined to answer questions from reporters as he left the courthouse Monday.

Trudeaus federal campaign events as Liberal leader in 2021 were regularly interrupted by protesters who railed against COVID-19 vaccine policies and measures the government introduced to stem the spread of the virus.

In crafting Marshalls sentence, McHugh reviewed the case of a man who was sentenced to 60 days house arrest for threatening to kill Trudeau during the same 2021 campaign.

McHugh also cited pie-throwing cases targeting former prime minister Jean Chretien and former Alberta premier Ralph Klein. The man who pied Chretien in 2000 during an event in Charlottetown was sentenced to 30 days in jail, but later only served eight days in custody after appealing his sentence, McHugh said.

Marshall was ordered to stay at his home 24-7 for the length of his conditional sentence, only leaving for medical emergencies or under the permission of his probation officer.

The judge ordered Marshall to keep his distance and avoid making any contact with Trudeau, but said he did not feel Marshall represented a danger to the community. The sentence includes a five-year weapons prohibition.

While the judge accepted Marshall did not show up to the rally with a plan to throw gravel at Trudeau, he said Marshall nonetheless committed a serious assault.

Mr. Marshall did not just impose on Mr. Trudeaus health and safety, he said. In a very public and tangible way he threatened the liberties and sense of security that we all hold dear in this country.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 8, 2023.

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OTTAWAIt all came down to the 20-word title of a committee study.

At least, that was the reason cited by Facebooks parent company Meta, when the multinational tech giant explained on Monday why one of its most senior executives was bowing out of a committee appearance on the Liberal governments online news bill.

Metas President (of) Global Affairs, Nick Clegg, had been due to speak later today at a hearing of Canadas Heritage Committee entitled The Response of Companies in the Information Technology Sector to Bill C-18, a statement from the company read.

Late on Thursday, the committee notified Meta that the title of the hearing had changed to Tech Giants Current and Ongoing Use of Intimidation and Subversion Tactics to Evade Regulation in Canada and Across the World. Clearly, it would be a very different hearing to the one Nick Clegg was invited to.

The hefty and highly-charged meeting moniker  and Metas decision to respond by sending two lower-level representatives before MPs  comes as the web giant mounts its latest stand against Ottawas proposed Online News Act.

Bill C-18 would compel tech companies like Meta and Google, which share and direct people to online news content, to strike deals with the Canadian media publishers behind that content. The Liberals introduced the bill last spring, pushing the legislation as an attempt to revive a shrinking journalism industry it says has been hurt by the tech titans domination of the digital advertising market. Torstar, the company that publishes the Toronto Star, has also lobbied Ottawa regarding the bill. In 2021, Torstar struck a deal with Meta to join its News Innovation Test, which pays publishers for the ability to link to news stories not already posted on Facebook.

Meta published the opening remarks Clegg would have issued had he appeared before MPs, in which the former U.K. politician turned tech executive reiterated that the company will end the availability of news content on Facebook and Instagram in Canada should the flawed legislation pass.

Meta has argued it should not be forced to fork over cash to news publishers, stating that news content represents less than three per cent of what users see in their Facebook feeds.

News publishers do find our services valuable. We estimate that Facebook Feed sent registered news publishers in Canada more than 1.9 billion clicks in the 12 months to April 2022. This amounts to free marketing we estimate is worth more than $230 million, Cleggs statement said.

Rachel Curran, Meta Canadas head of public policy and one of the representatives who testified Monday, confirmed that the company has been actively looking at how to prepare for the removal of news on its platform.

Heritage committee members have been probing both Meta and Googles opposition to the bill, following revelations earlier this year that Google had quietly launched a now-completed test that filtered out Canadian and global news content for less than four per cent of its Canadian users.

Meta has also faced questions around its response to similar legislation passed in Australia, which saw Facebook block news sharing in that country. The Wall Street Journal has since reported that Facebook allegedly blocked news in Australia  including content related to government, health and emergency services  in a strategic attempt to influence their legislation.

The way Australia unfolded was not ideal. There were some technical errors made in the way that we removed news from our platform. We fully intend that those errors will not be made in the Canadian context, Curran said Monday.

But it was the committee studys name that took up a sizable chunk of Mondays debate.

Unfortunately, late last Thursday  we were notified by the committee clerk that the title of the hearing was changed to a much more confrontational one,, said Kevin Chan, Metas global policy director.

A source from the company, who spoke to the Star on the condition they not be named, said different language initially accompanied Cleggs invitation from the committee, and it was only an eleventh-hour decision to change the studys title that prompted Clegg to drop out.

Liberal MP Chris Bittle disputed Metas version of events, telling the Star that the committees new title was taken straight from a motion committee members introduced back in March.

Conservative committee member Martin Shields took a similar view, telling Chan and Curran Monday that he felt Meta had the resources to know about the details of the motion in question.

You would have known what that motion was a long time ago when it was passed. You have incredible resources. So for somebody to take that now and say, Oh, Im not coming because of that, it really taints the conversation in the room. It really does, he said.

Tensions between MPs and the company continued into the final moments of the meeting, when committee chair Hedy Fry thanked Chan and Curran for their time.

Seconds later, as the meeting was suspending, Chan was caught on his microphone turning to Curran and saying: So reprehensible.

The Meta source refused to comment on the context of Chans remarks, saying they didnt hear the comment themselves and had nothing more to add.

Bittle said Fry was visibly upset by the remark. Bittle also accused the company for having no regard for Canadian democracy.

Clarification  May 9, 2023: This article was updated to be clear that it was Liberal MP Chris Bittle who accused Meta of having no regard for Canadian democracy.

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Concerns about population growth reflect anxieties about equality, conflict, the economy, health and education, and their solutions should be driven by the goal of promoting gender equality and empowering women.

The joint regional launch of the State of World Population 2023 report, organized by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the League of Arab States, has been a unique occasion to recall critical population and fundamental issues, not least the exaggerated fears and narratives about population explosion or shrinkage. The debate on these issues has not only never stopped, but has gained unprecedented momentum since Cairo hosted the first International Conference on Population and Development in 1994.

What has changed since then and why has 8 Billion Lives, Infinite Possibilities: The case for rights and choices been chosen as the title of our report for this year?

The answer lies in the escalation and spread of population concerns. We see, for example, that governments are resorting more and more to adopting policies aimed at increasing, decreasing or maintaining fertility rates  even though efforts to influence fertility rates are often ineffective and may negatively affect women's fundamental rights. It is imperative that, instead of asking how quickly a population is reproducing, leaders should ask whether individuals, especially women, are able to freely make their own reproductive choices.

But what does the picture look like in the Arab region?

The total fertility rate in Arab countries has fallen from 6.2 in 1990 to 3.1 children per woman in 2023. Still, the size of the population will continue to increase from 468 million in 2023 (representing 5.6 percent of the world's population of eight billion) to 676 million by 2050.

These changes  falling fertility rates and overall rising population size  have contributed to anxieties throughout the region. We heard from a woman in Syria, who told us it is saddening that people are continuing to give birth to new babies and having big families in such times. A man in Yemen told us his country has seen an explosion of population  with household sizes between seven to eight members and that population growth will put pressure on limited natural resources. A woman in Lebanon said, a third of the population is from the refugee community, and the country is lacking in infrastructure and a future plan to improve.

At first glance, these concerns about population growth might seem like demands for urgent fertility-related solutions. But we must look closer.

The woman in Syria elaborated on her concerns: Prices are soaring higher and higher almost every day. This is making it extremely difficult for people to provide for their families. The man in Yemen said he is very worried about the lack of birth spacing and high rates of illiteracy  concerns for the welfare of women and children. The woman in Lebanon said, I want to be living in a country where I am not seen as a number but as an opportunity.

These are not fundamentally worries about population size. They are concerns about equality, about conflict, about the economy and health and education. They are concerns about justice, not population.

When we get this wrong, we look for solutions in the wrong places. Health providers in the region told us their colleagues carry biases, like the belief that poor children, migrants and certain ethnicities have too many children. Some felt these ideas were held by policymakers and health institutions. Will young people face barriers to information and care because of these perceptions? Will women with large families endure worse care?

Meanwhile, we have been told for years that access to family planning will lead to the large-scale emancipation of women. This certainly can be the case. But it is not automatic, and in our region we have yet to see real equality between the sexes, parity in secondary and preparatory education, or equal access to employment opportunities. Female participation rate in the labour market has not exceeded 20 percent according to the International Labor Organization.

The message of The State of World Population 2023 report is clear: women and girls have the right to make informed decisions about their bodies when it comes to using family planning and seeking health care; Population policies must be designed as a tool to empower individuals. Women must be able to choose the issue of childbearing in quantity, quality, and timing, away from the coercion practiced by critics and officials.

Policies must have gender equality at their core, by providing paternity leave programs, child tax credits, and policies that encourage gender equality in the workplace and universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights services. All of them provide a proven formula that leads to harvesting economic returns and building resilient societies that are able to thrive regardless of demographic changes. What we are asking for is evidence-based policies, justice and human rights for all.

The UNFPA Arab States regional office will continue to work with all regional partners, led by the League of Arab States, and all partners within the Arab countries, including governments, civil society institutions and research and academic institutions, to ensure focus on strengthening health systems, expanding access to sexual and reproductive health services, and promoting equality between gender, empowering women and leaving no one behind.

* The author is a UNFPA Arab states regional director

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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should be cautious about making the same mistake with Pierre Poilievre as Stephen Harper did with him when the Conservative prime minister mischaracterized his Liberal opponent only to see him surpass expectations.

Back in 2015, Harpers director of communications, Kory Teneycke, told reporters that expectations of Trudeau were so low going into the first election debate that if he comes on stage with his pants on, he will probably exceed expectations.

The Conservatives spent years telling each other and Canadians that Trudeau wasnt up to the job of prime minister. Their first attack ad, in 2013, used footage of Trudeau pretending to strip at a charity fundraiser to mock him as a pretty-boy lightweight who was in way over his head.

That framing, pounded through a series of other ads, suggested Trudeau couldnt protect the country from terrorism, or handle the nations finances, or lacked the experience to lead the country  because hed been a camp counsellor, a rafting instructor and a drama teacher.

For two years, Conservatives lowered expectations so much that when the 2015 election came around and Canadians had a long look at Trudeau, his team, and his Liberal platform, enough voters felt the Tories attacks didnt ring true and they handed the untested leader a majority government.

The Liberals would be wise to remember that.

At the Liberal partys national convention this past week, the prime ministers team portrayed Poilievre as a far-right-Donald-Trump-MAGA (Make America Great Again) extremist.

In a speech to convention delegates Thursday, Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly pointed to the current Conservative leader and declared the rising tide of the far right has already reached our shores.

Poilievre, she said, stood shoulder to shoulder and gave a platform to conspiracy theorists to get elected, and after he won, Canadians got more of the same.

Behind closed doors, the following morning, Joly went further. She told Liberal delegates this would be the ballot question at the next election. Youve heard me in the speech yesterday saying that the far right has now reached our shores. And thats the real choice that Canadians will have to be facing in the next election, is  do we accept that or not?

The campaign, Joly said, has already begun. Were a minority government, she noted, and the party will soon face five by-elections (two in Manitoba, and one each in Alberta, Ontario and Quebec).

Every election is a new election. Its a new narrative. Its a new choice. What we know is that Poilievre has imported, in Canada, the MAGA extremist, you know, rhetoric, she said. When you watch [controversial Florida Republican Governor] Ron DeSantis in speeches or [former U.S. President] Trump you see the same type of vocabulary that is used by Poilievre.

She predicted the 2024 presidential election in the United States  likely another faceoff between Trump and President Joe Biden  will influence Canadians, and stressed how important it is for Liberals to make extremely clear the choice between Trudeau and Poilievre is stark.

Liberal MP Tim Louis, who was on the same panel with Joly, suggested this might make the difference between a Liberal minority or a majority mandate.

On stage Friday, Hillary Clinton, the former U.S. secretary of state, New York senator, and Democratic presidential nominee who lost to Trump, echoed these themes, warning delegates that a lot of democracies are being undermined by forces largely on the political right who deny minority rights and dismiss a free press. You just have to be highly alert to this, do not dismiss it.

She spoke of her former Republican colleagues in the U.S. Senate and said she no longer recognizes them. I dont recognize people who I worked with who are now willing to engage in election denial. Who are claiming that there are outlandish conspiracies, that the insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6 didnt really happen, even though we saw it with our own eyes. It is shocking to me what has happened to the Republican Party in the United States.

Trudeau himself, in a speech to the party faithful, sought to paint the Conservative party as conspiracy laden and out of touch with mainstream Conservatives.

The Liberal leader suggested Poilievre and his brokenness Conservative party would be unable to help Canadians get better access to a family doctor, or help young people buy their first home. Pierre Poilievres populism, his slogans and buzzwords are not serious solutions to the serious challenges were facing, he said.

Yes, Poilievre rails against wokeism. He frequently spreads disinformation and mischaracterizes Liberal policy. (His latest attack suggesting the Grits would legalize crack, cocaine and heroin is particularly egregious.) He placates conspiracy theorists. He seeks to defund the CBC, and he muzzles his backbench. The Liberals arent wrong to say the Conservative leader is for freedom for some but not for all.

But Poilievre has not shown himself to be an apologist for authoritarian regimes, or to embrace anti-immigration policies, or attack LGBTQ rights.

The more the Liberals seek to paint Poilievre as Trump or DeSantis, the further they risk alienating voters who once they take a good look at the Conservative leader discover hes not quite what was portrayed.

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Premier Doug Ford caused a stir when he said Ontario will back down from plans requiring new police officers to have a university or college education, raising concerns future cops could be 18-year-olds fresh out of high school.

The goal, as he put it, was to boost recruitment at a challenging time for police services  which for years have mostly hired post-secondary grads but are experiencing a shortage of officers  and put more boots on the ground to fight rising crime.

Some of the police services cant fill their spots at the Ontario Police College, says Mark Baxter, a Brantford police sergeant on leave serving as president of the Police Association of Ontario, representing unions. The pool of potential candidates is not what it was.

Hamiltons police service, for example, recently revealed it had 1,000 applicants last year, down sharply from 1,900 two years earlier.

RCMP training

Even if Fords announcement seems somewhat moot given hiring trends, it also seems odd, coming weeks after the inquiry into the 2020 mass shooting that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia recommended the Royal Canadian Mounted Police beef up their training of recruits with a three-year, degree-style training model.

While the Ford government and the police community say the change is about opening doors to candidates with valuable life experiences  and not necessarily degrees  others argue it will hurt recruitment in the long run.

Its actually working in the opposite direction of the way we want to be going, says Greg Brown, a former Ottawa police officer who worked undercover and as a homicide detective before joining the State University of New York and Carleton University.

Police are expected to do a lot more, a lot better, than they ever have before, adds Brown, an adjunct research professor in Carletons departments of sociology, anthropology, law and legal studies.

Theres a big emphasis on recognizing mental health challenges in the community, de-escalating whenever possible, being able to deal with people in crisis  criminal investigations are much more complex  Reversing the educational trajectory is the exact wrong way to handle that.

Brown points to the city of Ottawas policing controversy during the so-called Freedom Convoy when protesters shut down the citys downtown during the winter in 2022 and violence and killings involving police that have led to defund movements, combining to make a career in policing less attractive.

Many jurisdictions in Ontario are way low on their officer to population ratio, at historic lows, he says, leaving officers under high stress and burned out. Those are valid concerns that I hear all the time.

Improve diversity

In their bid to recruit a more diverse crop of officers reflecting Ontarios population, police services say sticking with a high school diploma or equivalent as the educational standard is the way to go and its unlikely to change long-standing trends in hiring.

If you just took a look at the surface of the announcement, you might not appreciate fully how many of our graduates do have post-secondary education, says Supt. Francesco Barredo, unit commander of the Toronto Police College in south Etobicoke, who acknowledges concerns about police education requirements are understandable.

I think the better takeaway is that its removing a barrier. So maybe a person has emigrated to Canada, they represent diversity, they may represent a community that were trying to recruit more strongly from.

Acting Supt. Stephanie Burritt of Toronto Police talent acquisition notes the last graduating class of 113 officers included 101 with degrees and ages ranging from 21 to 51. She said graduating classes typically have 60 to 80 per cent of cadets with post-secondary education. The average age has held at 29 for three years.

Its really all about life experience and what the candidate brings to the table, she adds, with volunteer work, community involvement and previous employment playing major roles in hiring, in addition to education.

It is a tough process, because we want the best candidates, Burritt says, pointing out Toronto police received 3,370 applications for police cadet last year and hired just over 300 following rigorous screening to determine suitability for police work, including background checks.

Path to policing

The path to policing can differ from one city to another, but in Toronto successful applicants take introductory courses and training at the Toronto Police College before moving on to three months at the Ontario Police College in Aylmer before returning for finishing courses in Toronto.

University of Toronto police reform expert Julius Haag, an assistant professor, agrees police recruiting is unlikely to see a major shift to younger, less educated officers because of the tremendous pressures and scrutiny police are under.

I dont see this dramatically changing how police are hiring.

There is an intriguing backstory to the policy reversal.

Policing law died

Following moves by the previous Liberal government to formalize post-secondary education for police officers before its defeat in 2018, Fords government wrote the requirement in the Community Safety and Policing Act passed in 2019. It was intended as a modernization of previous 1990 legislation governing police.

At the time, it really was reflective of what was already going on in police hiring, says interim Liberal leader John Fraser.

I dont understand why the government agreed it was a good idea, and now its a bad idea.

The new act was never proclaimed into law and faced heavy lobbying from the police community.

I dont think bringing an arts degree is necessarily the criteria to go to Ontario Police College, and to be a cadet I think its our whole life experience that we bring, says Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.

Im really excited that by removing the barrier of a university or college degree will encourage people who have these life experiences to come forward.

Most police forces in Canada require a minimum education of a high school diploma or equivalent, although there are exceptions. In Ontario, Kingston police demand a university or college degree, or a high school diploma followed by advanced military training. The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary requires one academic year of post-secondary education and Vancouver police want a minimum of 30 post-secondary credits or equivalent professional development credits.

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Nate is first out of the gate.

Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith will become the first official candidate in the Ontario Liberal leadership race when he submits his entry paperwork Tuesday.

In a three-minute video to party members, the federal representative for Beaches-East York said the provincial Grits need generational and grassroots renewal to unseat Premier Doug Fords Progressive Conservatives in the 2026 election.

Our province needs serious leadership to meet the big challenges we face, said Erskine-Smith, who turns 39 next month.

An MP since 2015, he said the Ontario Liberals should follow the playbook to power used by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who is pictured in the video.

I left law for politics almost 10 years ago now because of that drive to make a difference, faced with a Liberal party in need of generational change and a cynical Conservative government in Ottawa, he said.

We built a team, a grassroots organization, and won a competitive nomination and three elections since 2015  and weve made a real difference.

In an interview Monday, Erskine-Smith said he thought long and hard about running provincially in the upcoming Scarborough-Guildwood byelection that will be triggered when MPP Mitzie Hunter resigns Wednesday to run for the Toronto mayoralty.

But I am incredibly focused on building up the party in 124 ridings, he said, adding there are some strong local candidates who want to run in the byelection Ford could call as early as this month.

Not seeking a seat in the legislature now would free him up to criss-cross the province as leader, rebuilding a party now mired in third place in the legislature and lacking official status despite governing Ontario from 2003 until 2018.

The next Ontario Liberal leader will be announced Dec. 2.

Candidates must pay a $100,000 entry fee plus a $25,000 refundable deposit. Voting will take place Nov. 25-26 using a new one-member, one-vote ranked-ballot system similar to how the Tories elect their leaders.

Erskine-Smith, who has already visited more than 50 ridings and will hold a rally in Scarborough on Tuesday night, will spend the next few months enlisting members to vote.

He added he would decide over the summer when to step down as a member of Parliament and noted his constituency assistant, Tanveer Shahnawaz, is keen on running when the federal seat is vacated.

While Erskine-Smith will be the first to officially enter the Liberal leadership race, there are other hopefuls seriously considering bids.

Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, a former Liberal MP, is thinking about running, as is Liberal MP Yasir Naqvi (Ottawa Centre), a former provincial cabinet minister and Ontario Liberal Party president.

Also pondering runs are rookie MPPs Stephanie Bowman (Don Valley West), Ted Hsu (Kingston and the Islands) and Adil Shamji (Don Valley East).

All six were busily drumming up support at the federal Liberal convention in Ottawa last weekend.

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

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If you know of local business openings or closings, please notify us here.

PREVIOUS OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS

- Air Products & Chemicals Inc. plans to invest a half-billion dollars to produce environmentally friendly hydrogen in New York state.

- The Trexlertown Chick-Fil-A plans to add a second drive-thru lane as part of a plan to reduce traffic congestion.

- The Harrisburg-based Mid Penn bank has opened its first full-service branch in the Lehigh Valley in South Whitehall.

- The Allentown Planning Commission put off a decision on a new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen at the site of the former Nostos Greek restaurant.

- The former Star Crete concrete plant at the intersection of Farmersville Road and Easton Avenue has been sold for $1.58 million, and that may clear the way for a medical office building.

- The local business SuperSets Gym will open its third location in Allentown's South Mall, with no opening date set yet.

- The jewelry boutique Versant will close later this year, but the business will be consolidated at Gary Werkheiser's other location in Saucon Valley Square.

- The DSW Woodmill Commons has moved to Berkshire West, 1101 Woodland Road in Wyomissing.

- Trainer Michael Melendez has opened his new Reading Extreme Boxing Club where PacSun used to operate in the Berkshire Mall.

- Frackville NAPA Auto Parts held a grand opening with the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and Frackville Business & Professional Association.

- Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers in North Manheim Township held a grand opening, in conjunction with the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce and Pottsville Business Association.

- PDC Machines, a maker of hydrogen compressors, showed off a new plant in Lower Salford.

- Maya Capital Partners has acquired Amwell Valley Self Storage, a 265-unit storage business on Route 31 in Ringoes, New Jersey.

- Norwescap is buying the former Sullivan's on the Main restaurant in Phillipsburg to renovate the building and then use it for programs to help educate and feed people.
The media around the world has showed foreign citizens boarding military aircraft or warships and being safely evacuated from Sudan after the clashes between the countrys two rival generals intensified.

Footage of flag-waving evacuees welcomed at docks or on airport tarmac or scenes of servicewomen cradling babies during the evacuations have been seen on television across the world in demonstrations of an inflated sense of bravado and assumed national leverage.

There have also been the evacuations of diplomatic missions by countries that have made urgent plans to extract their staff by military aircraft from Khartoum in daring rescue operations.

But while diplomats and foreign nationals have been hurried out of the beleaguered country, Sudanese civilians have largely been left either to fend for themselves or to scramble to escape from the nightmare.

It is common practice in modern-day evacuations for foreign powers to save their nationals first in a life-threatening situation, though help is usually also expected to be given to the most vulnerable like the injured, the elderly, or children.

However, amid the ceasefire violations and continued violence Sudanese civilians have been abandoned in deteriorating and deadly conditions, with fear and confusion pushing their displacement and causing a wave of refugees to flee abroad.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the ferocious violence has showed how little the international community was prepared to deal with the looming catastrophe in Sudan after the transition to democracy that followed the popular uprising in 2019 ended in chaos.

Fighting erupted in the middle of April amid a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the government-affiliated Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after mediators from Africa, the US, and Europe failed to broker a deal to end Sudans political crisis.

Intense clashes between SAF forces loyal to Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, the countrys de facto ruler, and former warlord Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, have killed hundreds of people and sent thousands fleeing for safety.

The two generals collaborated in seizing power following the popular uprising in 2019 that ousted long-time Sudanese dictator Omar Al-Bashir when Al-Burhan headed a Transitional Military Council and Hemedti became his deputy.

Despite calls from international groups and governments to the two generals to cease the hostilities and engage in negotiations for a settlement, the violence has continued in Khartoum and many parts of Sudan, especially in the war-ravaged region of Darfur.

As the two factions continue battling for control and the country is thrown into violent chaos, the humanitarian situation especially in Khartoum continues to dramatically deteriorate.

People in cities across Sudan are trapped in their homes facing severe shortages of food, water, electricity, fuel, medical services and limited communications. Some continue to be forced from their homes by soldiers and suffer from looting and extortion.

In Darfur, local armed militias have rampaged through towns in the war-ravaged region battling each other and looting shops, houses, warehouses, offices, and targeting by-standers.

As the fighting continues despite several ceasefires, tens of thousands of civilians have begun fleeing their homes, many seeking sanctuary across the border in neighbouring Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, the Central African Republic, Libya and South Sudan.

A total collapse of the present truce would lead to a deepening of the divides or even to a full-blown civil war in Sudan that observers fear would be the beginning of nightmare situation that could trigger a huge displacement movement and a massive exodus abroad.

There are worrying signs that the international community might not be prepared for the influx of Sudanese refugees, when according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights there could be hundreds of thousands fleeing their country.

There are also increasing fears that the UN and the international community are not ready to bear the political and financial cost of the potential refugee problem and will instead expect it to be dealt with by Sudans neighbours who are already feeling the strain of their own recent political and economic upheavals.

Depending on the severity of the situation, a mass exodus of Sudanese will further pressure the capacity of neighbouring countries, adding to the strain on their overstretched public services and even creating some geopolitical backlash.

This warrants swift action on two fronts in order to avoid triggering a rapid reconfiguration of the regions migration system and hitting its fragile political order and emerging economies.

On the one hand, the international community should work in conjunction with governments in the region on the temporary protection and aid for the Sudanese that explicitly ensures that they stay in their country and minimise their flight abroad.

For this purpose, temporary safe heavens should be established in parts of Sudan that are far from the war zones and where displaced people can be provided with shelter, security, healthcare, education and adequate food support.

Despite the challenges it poses for regional and international stakeholders, this could be a temporary alternative to accommodate the thousands of women, men, and children who have been forced to flee their homes in Sudan in search of protection.

Compared to other crises on a global scale, such as in Syria in 2012, the sheer numbers of Sudanese refugees are not as daunting. But even if the neighbouring countries are welcoming the Sudanese at this stage, signs of fatigue and political and economic pressure could emerge and create pushbacks.

Unfortunately, the international community has showed no signs of mobilising to manage the emerging crisis, and no humanitarian organisations are deploying in cities considered as safe in Sudan in order to provide shelter, aid, and healthcare.

A coordinated regional and international humanitarian strategy is still missing, even though this will be essential if the fighting goes on and refugees continue to try to reach safer soil.

On the other hand, efforts should also be made to push for a negotiated solution to the crisis in Sudan. While catering to the refugee dilemma is necessary, the world should start examining diplomatic options for finding an end to the deadly conflict that is rumbling on for a third week before it slides towards an all-out civil war.

Before the eruption of the present fighting, Sudans neighbours, the UN, and the world powers were working to broker a political transition in the country to bring about stability after a second coup in 2021 that followed the massive uprising that overthrew Al-Bashir.

Attempts by the UN, the African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Quad group on Sudan that comprises Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the US and the UK, to bring about the promised transition to democracy have come to nothing.

There have been few signs of diplomatic efforts to resolve the Al-Burhan-Hemedti crisis despite offers from some neighbouring nations. The two generals have repeatedly refused to engage in peace talks, trading the blame with each other for the conflict.

The road to the current crisis was paved by the failure of international and regional diplomacy despite months of heightened tensions between the two sides and repeated warnings about outbreaks of violence.

As the UN and Western diplomatic offensives failed to yield dividends, the AU and IGAD efforts have also reached an impasse. Nearly three weeks into the conflict, the two groups, which seem to be the only available mediation mechanism, have failed to secure agreements from the warning generals to meet and cease hostilities.

The Arab League, which has proved ineffective in many previous regional conflicts, has so far not allied itself with peace-brokers or make an initiative of its own to embark on a pan-Arab platform that focuses on discussing a possible future peace process.

Probably unsurprisingly, the Arab League, which has proved ineffective in previous conflicts, has so far not allied itself with peace-brokers by embarking on a pan-Arab platform focused on discussing a possible future peace process.

The Cairo-based League has not met for high-level discussions on the escalation in Sudan, a member state, which is unprecedented in many ways. The issue has not even been placed on the agenda of an Arab leadership summit scheduled in Saudi Arabia next week.

However, with no let-up in the clashes between the two rival factions battling for influence in Sudan, the violence is now echoing the conflicts in Libya, Syria, and Yemen, particularly in the prospect of a prolonged Civil War and communal divisions.

Sudan is in a volatile region bordering several countries with already flaring hotspots. Major geopolitical considerations are at play, with China, Russia, the US, the EU and other regional powers battling for influence in the country.

It is not an option for regional and international stakeholders to let Sudan collapse in turmoil and the Sudanese people to be drenched in blood. Diplomacy should not be deferred to some point in the future. It needs to be going on at the same time as the fighting continues.

Much of the focus now is on the refugee problem, but the humanitarian and political approaches should continue hand-in-hand in any attempt to seek peace in Sudan.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 4 May, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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FILE - This combination of photos shows logos of Twitter, top left; Snapchat, top right; Facebook, bottom left; and TikTok. A bipartisan group of senators on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, introduced legislation aiming to prohibit all children under the age of 13 from using social media and would require permission from a guardian for users under 18 to create an account. It is one of several proposals in Congress seeking to make the internet safer for children and teens. (AP Photo, File)
STOCKERTOWN, Pa. - A former police chief in Northampton County is being accused of forgery.

Former Stockertown Borough Police Chief Eric Schwab, 44, of Nazareth, is facing a felony charge of forgery in addition to two counts of unsworn falsification to authorities, tampering with records or identification, and related charges, according to a news release from the Northampton County District Attorney's Office.

On December 29, 2022, Schwab attempted to obtain a retired law enforcement officer qualification card from the Northampton County Sheriffs Office, which allows retired officers an exemption from most state and local laws prohibiting the carrying of a concealed firearm. To do so, Schwab presented his drivers license, a partially completed retired law enforcement officer qualification card, a retired law enforcement identification card, and a $5.00 money order.

The DA's office says the sheriffs office did not proceed with the issuance of the qualification card due to concerns about Schwabs eligibility. To receive a retired law enforcement officer qualification card, the retired law enforcement officer must have separated from service with a public agency as a law enforcement officer in good standing. Due to Schwab's circumstances surrounding his separation from his employment with the Stockertown Borough Police Department, the sheriffs contacted County Detectives, the DA's office said.

Through investigation, detectives learned Schwab was employed as a police officer with the Stockertown Borough from March 2013 through September 2022. He served as Chief of Police beginning in 2020, and was the subject of an internal investigation beginning in May 2022, according to the DA's office. Schwab was on leave as of May 23, 2022 and did not actively work as a police officer for the borough from that date until his formal separation in September 2022.

In September, a Pennsylvania State Constable served Schwab with a written statement of charges, which included Engaging in Disobedience of Order or Conduct Unbecoming of an Officer.

Sheriffs presented County Detectives with the documents received from Schwab during his application process, which included an identification card with the signature of a former, part-time police officer with the Stockertown Borough Police Department, and a qualification card that indicated it was issued by a sworn police officer and certified law enforcement firearms instructor.

Through investigation, detectives determined the former, part-time police officer whose signature was on the defendants identification card was not employed by the borough at the time Schwab presented the document to the sheriffs, according to the news release.

Additionally, the signature on Schwabs identification card did not match the former part-time officers signature and was forged, the DA's office said. Detectives also determined Schwab fraudulently obtained the identification card with the forged signature and presented that card to the certified law enforcement firearms instructor, according to the DA's office.

The certified law enforcement firearms instructor told detectives he was unaware Schwab resigned from the Stockertown Borough Police Department while under formal investigation. He also told detectives he did not inspect the identification card in full, and he was unaware it contained the signature of a former officer of the borough before he signed the qualification card brought to him by Schwab, the DA's office said.

Forging a document is illegal, but forging a law enforcement officer qualification card is both illegal and disrespectful to those who qualify within the law. This defendant allegedly abused the power he once held with complete disregard to the law, and will certainly face the consequences that follow, District Attorney Terry Houck said.

Schwab was arraigned Monday afternoon by Magisterial District Judge Daniel Corpora. Bail was set at $15,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for May 22 at 9 a.m.
Bethlehem may get a new Sheetz with a drive-thru, but in a familiar location.



Plans filed with the city show the planned demolition of the existing convenience store at 3201 Schoenersville Road, on the west side of the road just north of Route 22.



The plans identify the project as "Sheetz Store #384 Rebuild" but indicate that the building will be demolished and replaced. The current store does not have a drive-thru. Ordering at fast-food restaurants and convenience stores soared during the COVID-19 pandemic.





"The intent of this commercial land development is to construct a Sheetz convenience store, associated drive-thru, a car wash, gas service stations and associated features," according to the plan filed with the City of Bethlehem.



The city Planning Commission will review the proposal Thursday, May 11, at 4:30 p.m. in Town Hall. Meeting agendas are subject to change. The meeting will also be broadcast on YouTube, with details and a link at the city website.





The new Sheetz, based on the plans, would cover 6,139 square feet. The drive-thru entrance would be on the north side of property, between Sheetz and the Starbucks in the adjacent strip mall. A lane to a new car wash will be next to the drive-thru lane. The property is in the Lehigh County portion of Bethlehem.



Bob Sheetz founded the convenience-store chain in 1952 in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Sheetz remains family owned. The chain now operates more than 600 stores across Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio and North Carolina.



Convenience chains including Wawa and Rutter's have opened new stores in the region, with more in the works.

Sheetz is planning to build a new store location along Schoenersville Road in Bethlehem. The new store will be about 6,000 square feet, offer inside/outside seating, the capability to fuel 12 vehicles at one time, a drive thru and a car wash. However, it is too early to provide additional specifics on this store project, including a potential timeline for construction and store opening," said Nick Ruffner, public relations manager for Sheetz.
EMMAUS, Pa.  A local food market is cooking up another season.

"So many tastes, sights and sounds and colors. It's just a beautiful place to be, said Alexandra Papoutsis, Emmaus farmers market shopper.

From now until November, over 30 vendors will fill the Emmaus Triangle streets every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the annual Emmaus Farmers' Market. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Sunday morning to mark the market's 20th anniversary season. For many Emmaus residents, the producer-only market ties the community together.

"We normally come back most Sundays during the summer, just part of our routine, said Naomi Kroll, Emmaus farmers market shopper. "Its just a small town, so it's kind of nice to be part of a small-town community. Its fun.

There are plenty of options to purchase local produce, quality meats, fresh dairy and other goods from local vendors, like the Patriot Farms Stand. They're a small-scale farm that grows certified organic vegetables.

"Shopping local keeps everything in this tight knit community and when you buy local veggies, our veggies don't have to ship halfway across the country to get to their final destination, Brittany Pinter-Bachman, Owner of the Patriot Farms Stand.

The market has a mission of not only providing the community with safe and nutritious fresh produce, but to also educate the public about the benefits of supporting local agriculture.

Some market goers, like Will Patterson, said it's more sustainable to shop locally.

"A lot of things are produced with materials and energy that are produced in the towns and cities nearby, so shopping local does wonders for our carbon footprint, said Patterson.

Patterson said small businesses are the heart of small towns and he will be back again, and again, to visit over the next several months.

List of vendors:
As the Pennsylvania primary election approaches, campaign signs for a group of Parkland school board candidates were vandalized.

Photos show two large signs for the group of five candidates.

Both have what appears to be an "X" marked on them.

In one of the images, two police vehicles are seen next to the defaced sign.
BETHLEHEM TWP., Pa. - Bethlehem Township's planning commission will review a proposal for eight new homes.

The twin homes are proposed for an open space just off of Farmersville Road.

The Fields at Farmersville, a Kay Builders project for the Miller Farm, is also due for review at the May 22 meeting.

The township agenda for the meeting shows the address for the eight-home plan as 1932 Farmersville Road, but the four twin homes would be built on Vintage Road. Two single-family homes on Farmersville that are included in the plan would remain. The eight homes total -- four units of two each -- would be built on a strip of green space on the south side of Vintage Drive, just east of Farmersville.

The owner of 1932 Farmersville Road is Monocacy General Contracting, according to Northampton County records. That developer has taken on several projects in Bethlehem. The plans for the Vintage Drive site were prepared by Keystone Consulting Engineers.

The development is a couple hundred yards south of the two-part intersection of Farmersville Road and Freemansburg Avenue. That intersection -- Farmersville connects with Freemansburg in two T-junctions -- creates a traffic hazard for drivers trying to turn left onto Freemansburg Avenue.

John Merhottein, president of the township commissioners, has said the intersection is among the worst in the township. The earliest potential date for the intersection to be fixed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is 2027.

The township's preferred resolution to the double intersection is a realignment, turning into a standard four-way crossing with a traffic light.

The Fields at Farmersville has been in administrative review. In April, the planning commission delayed taking any action on that development.

At the last meeting, the developer reduced the total number of units proposed to 108 from 166. Kay Builders also dropped the construction of apartments from its plan.

The meeting agenda is on the township website. Agendas are subject to change.

The Bethlehem Township Planning Commission will meet on Monday, May 22, at 7 p.m. at the municipal offices, 4225 Easton Ave. The meeting will also be webcast via Zoom.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - An active shooter report at Lehigh University brought many police officers to campus late Sunday night.

The report, which was deemed to be a hoax threat made by someone outside of the Lehigh community, was made just before 10 p.m.

Someone from outside the area called the Northampton County 911 center's non-emergency line and said there was an active shooter in "the main building," the university said Monday. East Packer Avenue, between Taylor and Webster streets.

Lehigh and Bethlehem police were in the area, on East Packer Avenue, between Taylor and Webster streets, within a minute. Shortly after that, the school sent an alert telling students to run-hide-fight.

A short time later, another alert from the university said that an active shooter threat was not detected, but students were asked to shelter in place until told otherwise. The university's police chief said they quickly realized the report did not seem credible, but they wanted everyone to stay put while officers investigated further.

Then minutes later, around 10:10 p.m., another alert from the university stated the following:

"Lehigh police continue to investigate the reports of an active shooter that were made to the Northampton County 911 center from outside of the Lehigh community. These reports do not appear to be credible at this time. Out of caution, continue to shelter in place until receiving the all clear as Lehigh and Bethlehem police continue to investigate."

There was a heavy police presence in the area, with some officers armed with rifles.

Shortly before 11 p.m., Lehigh University issued this alert:

"Lehigh and Bethlehem police have completed their investigation and it is safe to return to normal activity. No credible threat was found or observed and it was a hoax threat only from outside the Lehigh community. All operations may continue as normal."

Authorities say they are continuing to investigate who made the report and said counseling resources are available for students and staff.

The FBI and Pennsylvania State Police are assisting local authorities in the investigation.
It was a somber morning for the firefighting community. A service was held in Maryland during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend to pay tribute to dozens of firefighters who died in the line of duty during 2022.

Two firefighters from our area will have their names added to the National Memorial in honor of their sacrifices.

"We take comfort in knowing that the 144 men and women we honor today sacrificed themselves in the service of others," said Jessica Fitzwater, Frederick County Executive.

79 of those firefighters died in the line of duty in 2022. The other 65 from previous years. Each firefighter will have their name memorialized.

"Your loved ones will be remembered through history with their names etched into a plaque on the grounds of the memorial," continued Fitzwater.

Two men from the New Tripoli Fire Company in Lehigh County were honored on Sunday.

Marvin Gruber and Zachary Paris both answered their last call in December while battling a house fire in West Penn Township, Schuylkill County. The families of both men being given a badge, a red rose and an American flag during the fallen firefighter tribute.

Alejandro Mayorkas, of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security spoke at the ceremony and said "In fire, you can plan everything out to the minute and a minute before that, everything changes."

Three firefighters from the New Tripoli Fire Company attended the memorial in support of the families of Gruber and Paris.

"It gave us, the guys that came down here, it gave us a little bit of extra closure," said Asst. Chief, Jason Lindtner.

A brotherhood united, making sure even the youngest in mourning, know they are not alone.

"Zach lived for his little girls," continued Lindtner. "We've supported the family emotionally and financially."

The support is far from over. A memorial ride in July will raise money the Fallen Firefighter Fund.
MILFORD TWP., Pa. - The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is investigating an oil leak in Bucks County.

The issue was first reported Sunday night at a seemingly abandoned property in Milford Township.

According to the alert, home heating oil was released from an underground tank.

The DEP says it is investigating a release of home heating oil in that area.

Firefighters blocked off part of Portzer Road at Route 663, near the border of Milford and Richland townships, while crews investigated.

There's no word on how the leak could affect the surrounding community.
On April 13, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev arrived on an official visit to Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina). There, Ilham Aliyev met with the Chairman and members of the Presidium of Bosnia and Herzegovina Zelka Cvijanovic, Zeljko Komsic and Denis Becirovic. Despite the short visit, it was recognized as quite successful, as Azerbaijan acquired "another strategic partner in Europe", and the leaders of the two countries signed a joint declaration on the formation of a strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This is stated in an article published on The Jamestown Foundation portal, Azernews reports, citing Day.az.

The authors of the article note the intensification of the Azerbaijani-Bosnian relations in recent years.

"During the pandemic, Azerbaijan sent humanitarian aid to Bosnia, and in 2021 transformed its diplomatic mission in Sarajevo into an embassy. In addition, the Azerbaijani side also invested in a medical center in Banja Luka, as well as Friendship Park and a medical facility in Sarajevo. Chairman Presidium of Bosnia and Herzegovina Zelka Cvijanovic visited Baku on March 1 and met with President Ilham Aliyev.During the meeting, the leaders welcomed the high level of relations between the two countries.

For its part, Sarajevo also took the initiative in strengthening relations with Baku. For example, President Ilham Aliyev thanked Bosnia and Herzegovina for its support during the Second Karabakh War in 2020. And as a result of these negotiations, Sarajevo decided to open an embassy in Baku.

The article emphasizes that with the expansion of bilateral ties, the visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Bosnia and Herzegovina fits into a wider framework, as Azerbaijan is increasingly turning towards the Balkans.

"The war of Russia against Ukraine has significantly upended the security architecture of Europe and increased the relevance of alternative energy and transport routes between Asia and Europe. Thus, although Azerbaijan is not able to completely replace Russia at the pan-European level in terms of gas supplies, it can and does play a decisive role in this regard, both for the EU countries and for individual European countries, by reducing their dependence on Russian gas," the authors of the article explain.



Since the EU is interested in ensuring and maintaining stability and security on the continent, the article says, it attaches great importance to Azerbaijan's participation in the Balkans (and in Italy).

"This importance was reaffirmed in October 2022 by the historic visit to Baku of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who called Azerbaijan a revolutionary player in Europe's energy security. Later, von der Leyen also participated in the opening of the Greece-Bulgaria gas interconnector, designed to deliver Azerbaijani natural gas directly to Bulgaria," the newspaper notes.

As the authors of the article write, Azerbaijan is currently quite closely cooperating with Bulgaria and Greece in the Balkans: at the end of 2022, it was announced that more than 18 billion cubic meters of natural gas had been safely transported to Greece through the Trans Adriatic Gas Pipeline (TAP). Bulgaria and Italy since the start of commercial operation in 2020. Bulgaria, which has a contract for 1 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas, or a third of the country's annual demand, wants to increase this volume by another 1 billion cubic meters a year after the suspension of Russian gas supplies to the country.

"However, this is only superficial information, as there is huge potential for other projects, including the construction of the Romania-Serbia gas interconnector, which can also reduce regional dependence on Russia with the help of Azerbaijani gas. North Macedonia has several times expressed interest in importing gas from Azerbaijan, however, this is largely dependent on the completion of the connecting line between Greece and North Macedonia.Moreover, the Ionian Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) currently under construction will be able to transport Azerbaijani gas from Albania to Croatia via Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina before delivering it to Central Europe, provided that the necessary financial and political support is provided.

While the recent strategic partnership declaration, as well as recent statements by the leaders of Azerbaijan and Bosnia, highlight the deepening of bilateral economic ties, including Azerbaijan's investment in the Bosnian economy and Bosnia's participation in the Middle Corridor, the visit of President Ilham Aliyev also raised expectations for increased cooperation. in the energy sector. Mushfig Mammadli, deputy of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan, noted that both sides agreed to expand oil and gas cooperation in the field of green energy. Thus, Bosnia and Herzegovina is expected to receive 1 bcm from the SPD, which is projected to have a capacity of around 5 bcm, upon completion of the pipeline, with other expected beneficiaries being Albania (1 bcm), Montenegro (0.5 bcm cubic meters). and Croatia (2.5 bcm).

Thus, against the background of the current geopolitical events in Eurasia, Azerbaijan has a historical chance to extend its influence in the Caucasus and the Caspian region both to the east (Central Asia) and to the west (Balkans). Increasing Europe's energy supply and further development of the most important connection projects (Middle Corridor) will only serve to increase Baku's aspirations and opportunities. By becoming a stakeholder in the Balkans with the creation of the Southern Gas Corridor and its Balkan TAP segment, Azerbaijan is destined to play a more active role in the region and become a potential hub for transporting critical energy resources to the Balkans and beyond.
Any lingering boycott of Japanese products in Korea has fizzled now the weak yen makes them just too tempting to buy.

FRL Korea, which imports Uniqlo, said sales from September 2021 to August 2022 surged 21 percent on-year to W704.3 billion, while operating profit almost doubled to W114.8 billion (US$1=W1,322).

The company suffered a W88.4 billion deficit at the height of the boycott in 2020. Uniqlo shut down its flagship store in Myeong-dong last year due to the boycott, but now it is opening new stores here.
BEIJING (AP)  Chinas foreign minister told the U.S. ambassador on Monday that Washington is responsible for the downturn in relations between the two countries and must reflect deeply before ties can return to a healthy track, an official said.

Qin Gangs comments follow a suspension of serious dialogue on a range of issues between the worlds largest economies, increasingly at odds over tariffs, attempts by Washington to deprive China of cutting-edge technology, and Chinas claims to self-governing Taiwan and large parts of the South and East China Seas.

China's Foreign Ministry quoted Qin as telling Ambassador Nicolas Burns that a series of erroneous words and deeds by the U.S." since a meeting in November between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping "have undermined the hard-won positive momentum of Sino-U.S. relations.

The U.S. side should reflect deeply, meet China halfway, and propel China-U.S. relations out of the difficulties and back on the right track, Qin was quoted as saying.

The United States should correct its understanding of China and return to rationality, Qin said, repeating his earlier accusation that the U.S. is attempting to suppress and contain China. Beijing routinely cites U.S. political and military support of Taiwan as infringing on its sovereignty.

Qin said ties had grown icy and the priority was to stabilize them "and avoid a downward spiral and unanticipated events.

The U.S. should stop undermining Chinas sovereignty, security, and development interests, particularly through support of Taiwan's independent identity, Qin said.

China says Taiwan must come under its rule, by force if necessary, while the United States says the relationship between the sides must be resolved peaceably. U.S. law requires it to treat threats to Taiwan, including a military blockade, as a matter of grave concern, though it remains ambiguous under what conditions U.S. forces could be dispatched to defend the island.

Despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations, the U.S. is Taiwan's largest supplier of military hardware and diplomatic support, even while it continues to maintain relations with Beijing. Biden has been seen as going a step further by repeatedly saying that the U.S. would back Taiwan militarily, and America has been upgrading basing arrangements with the Philippines, located just south of Taiwan.

U.S.-China military contacts have been on hold for years, and China's top staff refused to answer a call from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin after then-Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last year. China retaliated for the visit by staging a naval and air force blockade of Taiwan and cutting off channels of communication with the U.S. on issues from environmental protection to maritime security.

At a daily briefing Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin described the meeting between Qin and Burns as a normal diplomatic arrangement."

In a tweet, Burns said he met with Qin and discussed challenges in the U.S.-China relationship and the necessity of stabilizing ties and expanding high-level communication.

In comments to a U.S. think tank last week, Burns said Washington has been consistent in its approach toward Taiwan and insists that any resolution of the (cross-Taiwan Strait) differences has to be peaceful.

We hope that the government here in China will commit itself to a peaceful resolution of the dispute, Burns said in an online discussion with the Washington-based Stimson Center.

The U.S. has the obligation as well as the interest to make sure that we can provide defensive arms to Taiwan so that the Taiwan authorities can have a proper defense and we can help them build up a deterrence, he said.

If Taiwan has a sufficient deterrence in place, and if other countries around the world are supporting a peaceful resolution, one would hope that that would lead the Chinese to understand the consequences of the use of force in the Taiwan Strait, Burns said.

Contacts between Washington and Beijing have been fraught for months since U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken abruptly canceled a Beijing trip aimed at easing U.S.-China tensions in February. That came after a large high-altitude Chinese balloon was shot down after it sailed across the U.S., drawing Pentagon accusations of spying on sensitive military sites despite firm Chinese denials.

Qin was due to depart Monday for visits to Germany, France and Norway amid China's fraying relations with Europe over alleged unfair trade practices, human rights abuses and Beijing's support for Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Chinese President Xi and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, declared their governments had a no limits" friendship before Moscows February 2022 attack on Ukraine. Beijing has refused to criticize the Kremlin over the invasion but has tried to appear neutral and has called for a cease-fire and peace talks.

This story has been amended to correct the name of the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson from Mao Ning to Wang Wenbin.
GOMA, Congo (AP)  The death toll from floods in eastern Congo has almost doubled, reaching close to 400 people as of Sunday, according to a local official.

The administrator of the worst-affected area, the Kalehe territory of South Kivu province, told The Associated Press by phone that more bodies were recovered Sunday, including many found floating in Lake Kivu.

Administrator Thomas Bakenge said the confirmed number of dead stood at 394 but it was a provisional count since the search was continuing. More than 300 victims had been buried as of Sunday, local groups said.

Torrential rains across Kalehe territory began on Thursday evening. Rivers broke their banks, with flash floods sweeping away the majority of buildings in the villages of Bushushu and Nyamukubi, causing the huge loss of life.

Delphin Birimbi, a civic leader in Kalehe, said he understood that thousands of people remained missing. He told the AP that some doctors arrived to treat the injured but communities were pleading for more emergency assistance.

The destruction caused by the flooding hampered aid efforts, with two main roads impassable.

More than 170 victims were buried in four mass graves, Valet Chebujongo, a youth political activist helping in the rescue efforts in Kalehe, said by telephone. Imagine, you bury them in a mass grave, without a coffin, Chebujongo said.

The Congolese government declared Monday as a national day of mourning, with flags to fly at half-staff in memory of the victims.

A delegation of government officials and lawmakers sent by Congo's president, Felix Tshisekedi, arrived in Bukavu, a city near the southern part of Lake Kivu and planned to visit the devastated area on Monday, according to a government spokesperson.

Heavy rains in recent days have brought misery to thousands in East Africa, including in parts of Uganda and Kenya.

Flooding and landslides in Rwanda, which borders Congo, left 129 people dead earlier in the week.
MOSCOW (AP)  Wildfires have engulfed large areas in Russia's Ural mountains and in Siberia this week, with authorities promising to swiftly contain them.

A total of over 54,000 hectares of forests in the Sverdlovsk region in the Urals were on fire as of Monday morning, according to local authorities. More than 4,800 firefighters have been battling the blaze, with some 6,000 volunteers helping them.

Head of Russia's Federal Forestry Agency Ivan Sovetnikov said Monday he expected most major fires in the region to be contained and put out within two to three days. It wasn't immediately clear if such a goal was too optimistic: on Sunday night, the area engulfed in flames stood at 33,000 hectares, but it grew significantly overnight.

In the neighboring Kurgan region, the fires have already destroyed more than 300 residential houses and 3,900 other buildings, Russia's state news agency Tass reported, citing local emergency officials.

Kurgan Governor Vadim Shumkov said a number of people had been killed and injured by the fires, without specifying how many, and called the situation in the region very difficult. Russia's Emergency Minister Alexander Kurenkov flew out to Kurgan on Monday morning and reported that most of the fires in the region had been contained.

In the Siberian region of Omsk, local authorities have declared a regional state of emergency because of the fires. Local media reported that the city of Omsk, the regional capital, has been covered with a thick layer of smoke since Monday morning.

In the neighboring Tyumen region, 12 wildfires raged as of Monday morning. Tyumen authorities also declared a state of emergency on Sunday.

Every day we register new sources of wildfires and forest fires. All this is exacerbated by very hot dry weather and strong winds," Tyumen Governor Alexander Moor said on Sunday.

In recent years, Russia has experienced especially widespread forest fires, which experts blame on unusually dry summers and high temperatures.

The experts also blame a 2007 decision to disband a federal aviation network tasked with spotting and combating fires. Its assets were turned over to the regional authorities, leading to the force's rapid decline and attracting much criticism.

The government later reversed the move and reestablished the federal agency in charge of monitoring forests from the air. However, its resources remain limited, making it hard to survey the massive forests of Siberia and the Far East.
CAIRO (AP)  The Arab League agreed Sunday to reinstate Syria, ending a 12-year suspension and taking another step toward bringing Syrian President Bashar Assad, a long-time regional pariah, back into the fold.

Some influential league members remain opposed to reinstating Syria, chief among them Qatar, which did not send its foreign minister to Sunday's gathering. Thirteen out of the league's 22 member states sent their foreign ministers to the meeting in Cairo.

The decision represented a victory for Damascus, albeit a largely symbolic one. Given that Western sanctions against Assad's government remain in place, the return to the Arab League is not expected to lead to a quick release of reconstruction funds in the war-battered country.

Syrias membership in the Arab League was suspended early on during the country's 2011 uprising against Assad's rule that was met by a violent crackdown and quickly turned into a civil war. The conflict has killed nearly a half million people since March 2011 and displaced half of the countrys pre-war population of 23 million.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said in a televised statement that the decision to return Syria to the organization, which will allow Assad to take part in the group's upcoming May 19 summit, is part of a gradual process of resolving the conflict.

This doesnt mean that the Syria crisis has been resolved, on the contrary, he said. But it allows the Arab (states) for the first time in years to communicate with the Syrian government to discuss all the problems.

Aboul Gheit also said restoring Syrias membership in the organization does not mean all Arab countries have normalized with Damascus.

These are sovereign decisions for each state individually, he said.

Syrian Prime Minister Hussein Arnous claimed Sunday that Syria had been the victim of misinformation and distortion campaigns launched by our enemies for 12 years. He said Sunday's consultations reflected the prestigious position Syria holds regionally and internationally.

Opponents of Assad saw the move toward normalization as a betrayal.

Arab states have put their own cynical realpolitik and diplomatic agendas above basic humanity," said Laila Kiki, executive director of The Syria Campaign, an international advocacy group. The move, she said, has cruelly betrayed tens of thousands of victims of the regimes war crimes and granted Assad a green light to continue committing horrific crimes with impunity.

Sunday's decision came days after regional top diplomats met in Jordan to discuss a road map to return Syria to the Arab fold as the conflict continues to de-escalate. The next Arab League summit is to take place May 19 in Saudi Arabia.

The Arab League generally tries to reach agreements by consensus but sometimes opts for simple majorities. Sunday's session was held behind closed doors, and it was not immediately clear which countries had registered objections.

A spokesperson for Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement published by state media that normalization with Syria should be tied to a political solution to the conflict but that it always seeks to support what will achieve an Arab consensus and will not be an obstacle to that.

Sunday's decision also includes a commitment by Arab governments to try to reach a political solution to the conflict, in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 2254. Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq were asked by the league to follow up on developments.

The league welcomed what it said was the Syrian governments willingness to cooperate with Arab countries to resolve humanitarian, security, and political crises that affected Syria and the region due to the conflict, including refugees, the threat of terrorism and drug smuggling.

Many observers had anticipated Syrias imminent return to the organization.

Arab rapprochement with Damascus accelerated after a deadly Feb. 6 earthquake that shattered parts of the war-torn country. One of the countries pushing normalization is Saudi Arabia, which once backed opposition groups trying to overthrow Assad.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Samer Shoukry said before Sunday's meeting that only an Arab-led political solution without foreign dictates can end the ongoing conflict. The different stages of the Syrian crisis proved that it has no military solution, and that there is no victor nor defeated in this conflict, he said.

In recent years, as Assad regained control of most of the country with the help of key allies Russia and Iran, neighbors of Syria that hosted large refugee populations took steps towards reopening diplomatic links with Damascus. Meanwhile, two Gulf monarchies, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, reestablished ties.

The Feb. 6 earthquake that rocked Turkey and Syria was a catalyst for further normalization across the Arab world. China helped to broker a recent rapprochement between arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran, which had backed opposing sides in the Syrian conflict.

Jordan last week hosted regional talks that included envoys from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, and Syria. They agreed on a framework, dubbed the Jordanian initiative, that would slowly bring Damascus back into the Arab fold. Ammans top diplomat said the meeting was the beginning of an Arab-led political path for a solution to the crisis.

The conflict in Sudan is also on the agenda, as Arab states try to stabilize a shaky cease-fire in the ongoing fighting that has killed hundreds of people over the past few weeks.



Chehayeb reported from Beirut. Associated Press writers Abby Sewell in Beirut, Sam Magdy and Noha El Hennawy in Cairo, contributed to this report.
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Sales of Japanese products in Korea are recovering after a drawn-out boycott that started in 2019.

Imports of Japanese beer and cars have risen markedly, as have sales of cheap-and-cheerful Uniqlo clothes. Although sales have yet to return to levels before 2019, industry insiders say the boycott is over.

Imports of Japanese beer, which at one point dropped to 1/10 of their previous volume, surged 314.9 percent on-year in January to US$2.4 million. In 2018 they stood at $78.3 million but fell to $39.76 million in 2019 and $5.67 million in 2020, returning to $14.48 million last year.

According to the Financial Supervisory Service, Uniqlo's sales in Korea surged 20.9 percent to W704.3 billion from September 2021 to August 2022 (US$1=W1,324). They plummeted from W1.38 trillion in 2018 to W629.8 billion in 2019 and to W583.4 billion in 2020.
Aufman Associates Inc purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 3,979 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $377,000. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF comprises approximately 0.3% of Aufman Associates Incs holdings, making the stock its 24th biggest position.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Congress Asset Management Co. MA raised its holdings in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 4.4% in the 3rd quarter. Congress Asset Management Co. MA now owns 35,601 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $3,104,000 after acquiring an additional 1,507 shares during the period. Monterey Private Wealth Inc. acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF during the 4th quarter worth about $290,000. Lion Street Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF during the 4th quarter worth about $259,000. Conservest Capital Advisors Inc. boosted its stake in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF by 3.8% during the 4th quarter. Conservest Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 309,612 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $29,302,000 after purchasing an additional 11,253 shares during the period. Finally, Spotlight Asset Group Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $276,000.

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iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF Stock Down 0.2 %

NYSEARCA IJR traded down $0.22 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $93.12. The company had a trading volume of 1,083,165 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,093,103. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $95.77 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $98.00. The stock has a market cap of $64.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.11 and a beta of 1.15. iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF has a fifty-two week low of $86.40 and a fifty-two week high of $108.24.

About iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF

iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, formerly iShares S&P SmallCap 600 Index Fund, seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors SmallCap 600 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of publicly traded securities in the small-capitalization sector of the United States equity market.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IJR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF (NYSEARCA:IJR  Get Rating).

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CVS Health (NYSE:CVS  Get Rating) had its price objective lowered by Barclays from $100.00 to $90.00 in a research report released on Thursday morning, The Fly reports.

Other equities analysts have also issued research reports about the company. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price objective on CVS Health from $130.00 to $143.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on shares of CVS Health from $119.00 to $120.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 13th. Cantor Fitzgerald initiated coverage on CVS Health in a research report on Thursday, April 20th. They issued an overweight rating and a $87.00 price target on the stock. StockNews.com initiated coverage on CVS Health in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Finally, UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of CVS Health from $102.00 to $94.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 2nd. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $112.84.

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CVS Health Price Performance

Shares of CVS Health stock opened at $70.68 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $90.61 billion, a PE ratio of 23.33, a P/E/G ratio of 1.09 and a beta of 0.61. The business has a 50 day moving average of $75.70 and a 200 day moving average of $87.29. CVS Health has a 52 week low of $68.10 and a 52 week high of $107.26. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79.

CVS Health Dividend Announcement

CVS Health ( NYSE:CVS Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The pharmacy operator reported $2.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.07 by $0.13. The company had revenue of $85.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $80.67 billion. CVS Health had a net margin of 1.20% and a return on equity of 15.75%. CVS Healths quarterly revenue was up 11.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $2.22 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that CVS Health will post 8.61 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 21st were paid a dividend of $0.605 per share. This represents a $2.42 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.42%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, April 20th. CVS Healths dividend payout ratio is presently 79.87%.

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Karen S. Lynch purchased 14,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 3rd. The stock was acquired at an average price of $69.75 per share, with a total value of $976,500.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the chief executive officer now owns 431,392 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $30,089,592. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.25% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of CVS Health

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Virginia Wealth Management Group Inc. increased its stake in CVS Health by 18.5% in the 1st quarter. Virginia Wealth Management Group Inc. now owns 51,016 shares of the pharmacy operators stock worth $3,791,000 after buying an additional 7,970 shares in the last quarter. Sandy Spring Bank raised its stake in CVS Health by 2.8% during the 1st quarter. Sandy Spring Bank now owns 83,339 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $6,193,000 after purchasing an additional 2,265 shares during the period. Citizens & Northern Corp raised its position in shares of CVS Health by 1.0% during the first quarter. Citizens & Northern Corp now owns 30,902 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $2,296,000 after buying an additional 304 shares during the last quarter. Kraft Asset Management LLC bought a new position in shares of CVS Health during the first quarter worth $215,000. Finally, Assetmark Inc. grew its position in shares of CVS Health by 1.5% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,798,304 shares of the pharmacy operators stock valued at $133,632,000 after purchasing an additional 25,893 shares in the last quarter. 77.29% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

CVS Health Company Profile

(Get Rating)

CVS Health Corp. is a health solutions company, which engages in the provision of healthcare services. It operates through the following segments: Pharmacy Services, Retail or Long-Term Care, Health Care Benefits, and Corporate and Other. The Pharmacy Services segment focuses on the pharmacy benefit management solutions.

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Ameren (NYSE:AEE  Get Rating) had its target price boosted by BMO Capital Markets from $95.00 to $98.00 in a research note issued to investors on Monday, The Fly reports. BMO Capital Markets price objective would indicate a potential upside of 8.86% from the companys previous close.

Several other equities analysts also recently issued reports on the stock. Guggenheim downgraded shares of Ameren from a buy rating to a neutral rating and boosted their price target for the company from $84.00 to $89.00 in a report on Monday, January 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price target on shares of Ameren from $102.00 to $95.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 19th. Bank of America boosted their price target on shares of Ameren from $96.00 to $99.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Ameren from $97.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, April 10th. Finally, Mizuho upped their price objective on shares of Ameren from $89.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, April 10th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $95.40.

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Ameren Stock Performance

AEE stock traded down $0.45 during trading on Monday, hitting $90.02. 57,894 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,338,837. The company has a quick ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.29. Ameren has a 52 week low of $73.28 and a 52 week high of $97.53. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $86.58 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $86.32. The stock has a market capitalization of $23.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.98 and a beta of 0.43.

Insiders Place Their Bets

Ameren ( NYSE:AEE Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The utilities provider reported $1.00 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.94 by $0.06. Ameren had a net margin of 13.34% and a return on equity of 10.52%. The company had revenue of $2.06 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.95 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.97 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 9.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Ameren will post 4.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In other Ameren news, EVP Chonda J. Nwamu sold 3,660 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.40, for a total value of $305,244.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 36,692 shares in the company, valued at $3,060,112.80. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Ameren news, EVP Mark C. Lindgren sold 3,130 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $81.19, for a total transaction of $254,124.70. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 45,343 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,681,398.17. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Chonda J. Nwamu sold 3,660 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $83.40, for a total value of $305,244.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 36,692 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,060,112.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 63,509 shares of company stock worth $5,221,792. 0.42% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of Ameren

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Penserra Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Ameren in the 1st quarter valued at about $25,000. CI Investments Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Ameren by 1,006.5% in the 3rd quarter. CI Investments Inc. now owns 343 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 312 shares during the period. Optiver Holding B.V. acquired a new position in shares of Ameren in the 4th quarter valued at about $28,000. New Hampshire Trust acquired a new position in shares of Ameren in the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Finally, CoreCap Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Ameren in the 4th quarter valued at about $29,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.42% of the companys stock.

Ameren Company Profile

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Ameren Corp. is a public utility holding company, which engages in the provision of electric and natural gas services. It operates through the following segments: Ameren Missouri, Ameren Illinois Electric Distribution, Ameren Illinois Natural Gas, Ameren Transmission, and Other. The Ameren Transmission segment consists of the aggregated electric transmission businesses of Ameren Illinois and Ameren Transmission Company of Illinois (ATXI).

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Oak Grove Capital LLC decreased its position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE:BAM  Get Rating) (TSE:BAM.A) by 75.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 134,415 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 409,602 shares during the quarter. Brookfield Asset Management makes up about 1.9% of Oak Grove Capital LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 16th biggest holding. Oak Grove Capital LLCs holdings in Brookfield Asset Management were worth $3,854,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 7,777.8% in the 3rd quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 709 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 700 shares during the period. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 146.4% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,003 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $41,000 after buying an additional 596 shares during the period. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA raised its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 35.5% in the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA now owns 1,057 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $47,000 after buying an additional 277 shares during the period. RE Dickinson Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Brookfield Asset Management in the 4th quarter valued at about $48,000. Finally, EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 669.8% in the 3rd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,632 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $66,000 after buying an additional 1,420 shares during the period.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts have issued reports on BAM shares. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a $40.00 price target on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research note on Tuesday, March 28th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Brookfield Asset Management from $35.00 to $39.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered shares of Brookfield Asset Management to an underperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 18th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating, four have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Brookfield Asset Management currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $43.57.

Insider Activity at Brookfield Asset Management

Brookfield Asset Management Stock Up 1.5 %

In related news, Director Multi-Strategy Mast Brookfield sold 24,744 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $11.96, for a total value of $295,938.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 21,104,923 shares of the companys stock, valued at $252,414,879.08. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website . 11.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Shares of BAM stock traded up $0.48 during trading hours on Monday, reaching $32.83. 529,182 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,679,695. The businesss fifty day moving average is $32.33 and its two-hundred day moving average is $34.79. Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. has a 12-month low of $26.76 and a 12-month high of $36.50.

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM  Get Rating) (TSE:BAM.A) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 8th. The financial services provider reported $0.31 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.30 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $958.10 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $21.81 billion. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. will post 1.4 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Brookfield Asset Management Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Tuesday, February 28th were issued a $0.32 dividend. This represents a $1.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.90%. This is an increase from Brookfield Asset Managements previous quarterly dividend of $0.14. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 27th.

Brookfield Asset Management Profile

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Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. provides alternative asset management services. Its renewable power and transition business includes the ownership, operation, and development of hydroelectric, wind, solar, and energy transition power generating assets. The company's infrastructure business engages in the ownership, operation, and development of utilities, transport, midstream, data and sustainable resource assets.

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TELUS (TSE:T  Get Rating) (NYSE:TU) had its price objective reduced by Canaccord Genuity Group from C$33.00 to C$32.00 in a research note released on Friday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

T has been the topic of a number of other research reports. CIBC upgraded TELUS to a buy rating and set a C$31.00 price objective on the stock in a report on Thursday, January 12th. Scotiabank upped their target price on TELUS from C$30.50 to C$31.00 in a research report on Friday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on TELUS from C$36.00 to C$33.00 in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their price objective on TELUS from C$34.00 to C$33.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reduced their price objective on TELUS from C$33.00 to C$32.00 in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, TELUS currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of C$31.82.

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TELUS Trading Down 0.2 %

Shares of T stock opened at C$28.13 on Friday. The firms 50 day moving average price is C$27.67 and its two-hundred day moving average price is C$27.87. TELUS has a fifty-two week low of C$25.94 and a fifty-two week high of C$32.46. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.74 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 142.59. The stock has a market cap of C$40.51 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.74 and a beta of 0.66.

TELUS Increases Dividend

TELUS ( TSE:T Get Rating ) (NYSE:TU) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The company reported C$0.23 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.28 by C($0.05). The firm had revenue of C$5.06 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of C$4.98 billion. TELUS had a return on equity of 10.19% and a net margin of 8.83%. On average, analysts anticipate that TELUS will post 1.1201248 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, July 4th. Shareholders of record on Friday, June 9th will be paid a dividend of $0.364 per share. This represents a $1.46 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.18%. This is an increase from TELUSs previous quarterly dividend of $0.35. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, June 8th. TELUSs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 121.74%.

TELUS Company Profile

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TELUS Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of telecommunications and information technology products and services in Canada. It operates through Technology Solutions and Digitally-Led Customer Experiences segments. The Technology Solutions segment offers a range of telecommunications products and services; network revenue; mobile technologies equipment sale; data revenues, such as internet protocol; television; hosting, managed information technology, and cloud-based services; software, data management, and data analytics-driven smart food-chain technologies; home and business security; healthcare software and technology solutions; and voice and other telecommunications services.

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Canyon Creek Food Company Ltd. (CVE:CYF  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as C$0.01 and last traded at C$0.01, with a volume of 23000 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.02.

Canyon Creek Food Price Performance

The companys fifty day simple moving average is C$0.02 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$0.03. The firm has a market capitalization of C$351,500.00, a PE ratio of -0.10 and a beta of 2.14.

About Canyon Creek Food

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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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President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday agreed to form a negotiating body to discuss security and economic issues and resume regular "shuttle diplomacy" that was halted 12 years ago over historical conflicts.

Meeting Yoon in Tokyo, Kishida promised to scrap restrictions on exports of key high-tech materials and put South Korea back on a whitelist of favored trading partners.

In turn South Korea withdraws a lawsuit against Japan at the World Trade Organization. The two leaders agreed to normalized relations that chilled to freezing point after the Supreme Court here ordered Japanese companies in 2018 to compensate Koreans who were forced to labor in Japanese factories during World War II.

In a joint press conference after their meeting, Yoon said South Korea and Japan are "the closest neighbors and partners for cooperation pursuing common interests in security and economic agendas."

"Prime Minister Kishida and I shared the view that people in both countries suffered direct and indirect losses due to frozen bilateral ties and agreed on the need to recover ties as soon as possible," he added.

Yoon also announced the resumption of an intelligence-sharing pact, which had been only conditionally extended by the former Moon Jae-in administration.
Capital Analysts LLC lifted its position in shares of Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Rating) by 1.5% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 90,838 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 1,338 shares during the period. Capital Analysts LLCs holdings in Morgan Stanley were worth $7,723,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Fisher Asset Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 68.9% in the 3rd quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 18,416,436 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,455,083,000 after acquiring an additional 7,514,505 shares during the period. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board purchased a new stake in shares of Morgan Stanley during the 1st quarter valued at about $451,711,000. Neuberger Berman Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 123.3% during the 3rd quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC now owns 3,183,121 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $251,546,000 after buying an additional 1,757,682 shares during the period. Toronto Dominion Bank raised its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 152.3% during the 3rd quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 2,500,681 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $197,539,000 after buying an additional 1,509,589 shares during the period. Finally, Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec raised its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 479.4% during the 3rd quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 1,390,483 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $109,862,000 after buying an additional 1,150,483 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 83.48% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Morgan Stanley

In related news, Director Thomas H. Glocer sold 4,535 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $87.11, for a total value of $395,043.85. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 98,110 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,546,362.10. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other Morgan Stanley news, Director Thomas H. Glocer sold 4,535 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $87.11, for a total transaction of $395,043.85. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 98,110 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,546,362.10. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, insider Andrew M. Saperstein sold 24,556 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, February 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.23, for a total value of $2,412,135.88. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 190,440 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,706,921.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.26% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Morgan Stanley Stock Performance

Several brokerages recently commented on MS. Odeon Capital Group upgraded Morgan Stanley from a sell rating to a hold rating and set a $88.75 target price on the stock in a report on Tuesday, January 10th. Cfra reaffirmed a strong-buy rating and set a $105.00 price target on shares of Morgan Stanley in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on shares of Morgan Stanley from $108.00 to $104.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 20th. Oppenheimer lifted their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $95.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, April 20th. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Morgan Stanley in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $95.34.

Shares of NYSE:MS traded up $0.14 during trading on Monday, hitting $85.02. 911,986 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,638,628. The stock has a market capitalization of $141.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.58, a PEG ratio of 1.78 and a beta of 1.34. The businesss fifty day moving average is $88.56 and its 200-day moving average is $89.82. Morgan Stanley has a one year low of $72.05 and a one year high of $100.99. The company has a quick ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.68.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, April 19th. The financial services provider reported $1.70 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.67 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $14.52 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.96 billion. Morgan Stanley had a return on equity of 11.35% and a net margin of 14.12%. The businesss revenue was down 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.06 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that Morgan Stanley will post 6.53 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Morgan Stanley Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 1st will be given a dividend of $0.775 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, April 28th. This represents a $3.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.65%. Morgan Stanleys dividend payout ratio is currently 53.26%.

Morgan Stanley Company Profile

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Morgan Stanley operates as a global financial services company. The firm provides investment banking products and services to its clients and customers including corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals. It operates through the following segments: Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management.

Further Reading

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Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:CLM  Get Rating) announced a monthly dividend on Monday, May 8th, Wall Street Journal reports. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, August 15th will be given a dividend of 0.1228 per share by the investment management company on Thursday, August 31st. This represents a $1.47 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 18.58%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 14th.

Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund has decreased its dividend payment by an average of 6.0% annually over the last three years.

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Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund Price Performance

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN:CLM traded up $0.08 during trading on Monday, hitting $7.93. The company had a trading volume of 1,107,139 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,330,580. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $8.28. Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund has a one year low of $7.18 and a one year high of $12.78.

Institutional Trading of Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund

Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund Company Profile

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of CLM. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund by 1.9% in the first quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 48,993 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $690,000 after buying an additional 919 shares in the last quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC raised its position in shares of Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund by 21.4% in the 1st quarter. Private Advisor Group LLC now owns 36,378 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $513,000 after acquiring an additional 6,401 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. purchased a new stake in shares of Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund during the 1st quarter worth $229,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its stake in Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund by 6.7% in the first quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 18,360 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $259,000 after purchasing an additional 1,160 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Centaurus Financial Inc. raised its holdings in Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund by 6.3% in the first quarter. Centaurus Financial Inc. now owns 1,679,256 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $23,661,000 after purchasing an additional 99,405 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 52.94% of the companys stock.

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Cornerstone Strategic Value Fund is a management investment company that is an investment operation. They limit the funds investment in securities issued by other investment companies.

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Donaldson Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Cummins Inc. (NYSE:CMI  Get Rating) by 2.0% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 202,423 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 3,995 shares during the period. Cummins comprises approximately 2.4% of Donaldson Capital Management LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 16th largest position. Donaldson Capital Management LLC owned about 0.14% of Cummins worth $49,045,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Synovus Financial Corp increased its stake in shares of Cummins by 254.4% in the first quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 6,099 shares of the companys stock worth $1,242,000 after buying an additional 4,378 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc. increased its position in shares of Cummins by 65.4% in the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 18,194 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,732,000 after acquiring an additional 7,191 shares during the period. Sei Investments Co. raised its stake in shares of Cummins by 16.1% during the first quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 94,391 shares of the companys stock valued at $19,282,000 after acquiring an additional 13,058 shares during the last quarter. Prudential PLC purchased a new stake in shares of Cummins during the first quarter worth about $711,000. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers grew its stake in shares of Cummins by 43.0% in the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 6,403 shares of the companys stock worth $1,313,000 after purchasing an additional 1,925 shares during the last quarter. 80.94% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Cummins Stock Down 0.9 %

Cummins stock traded down $2.03 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $224.35. The stock had a trading volume of 355,008 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,002,713. Cummins Inc. has a one year low of $184.27 and a one year high of $261.91. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $234.61 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $241.25. The company has a market capitalization of $31.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.62, a PEG ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 1.29 and a quick ratio of 0.77.

Cummins Dividend Announcement

Cummins ( NYSE:CMI Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The company reported $5.55 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $4.70 by $0.85. Cummins had a net margin of 8.37% and a return on equity of 25.94%. The firm had revenue of $8.45 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.13 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $4.04 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 32.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts expect that Cummins Inc. will post 19.55 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 24th were paid a $1.57 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 23rd. This represents a $6.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.80%. Cumminss dividend payout ratio is presently 35.40%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on CMI shares. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Cummins from $264.00 to $262.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, January 20th. StockNews.com began coverage on Cummins in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. UBS Group raised their target price on Cummins from $247.00 to $260.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reduced their price target on Cummins from $231.00 to $227.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Finally, VNET Group reissued a maintains rating on shares of Cummins in a research report on Wednesday, May 3rd. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Cummins currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $254.25.

Insider Activity

In other Cummins news, VP Sharon R. Barner sold 5,540 shares of Cummins stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $252.34, for a total value of $1,397,963.60. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 16,144 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,073,776.96. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, VP Sharon R. Barner sold 5,540 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $252.34, for a total transaction of $1,397,963.60. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 16,144 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,073,776.96. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Director Georgia R. Nelson sold 1,933 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $251.64, for a total transaction of $486,420.12. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 21,742 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,471,156.88. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 16,709 shares of company stock valued at $4,245,545 over the last three months. Insiders own 1.12% of the companys stock.

Cummins Profile

(Get Rating)

Cummins, Inc engages in the design, manufacture, and market of diesel and natural gas engines. It operates through the following segments: Engine, Distribution, Components, Power Systems, and New Power. The Engine segment manufactures and markets diesel and natural gas-powered engines under the Cummins brand name, for the heavy- and medium-duty truck, bus, recreational vehicle, light-duty automotive, construction, mining, marine, rail, oil and gas, defense, and agricultural markets.

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Capital Analysts LLC increased its stake in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Get Rating) by 3,874.9% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 54,854 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after purchasing an additional 53,474 shares during the period. Capital Analysts LLCs holdings in EOG Resources were worth $7,104,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Westside Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in shares of EOG Resources in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $22,346,000. Kistler Tiffany Companies LLC acquired a new position in EOG Resources during the 4th quarter valued at about $30,000. Lumature Wealth Partners LLC acquired a new position in EOG Resources during the 1st quarter valued at about $28,000. Larson Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in EOG Resources during the 3rd quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC boosted its stake in EOG Resources by 1,436.8% during the 1st quarter. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 292 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 273 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 87.40% of the companys stock.

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EOG Resources Stock Up 1.6 %

EOG stock traded up $1.88 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $116.05. The company had a trading volume of 332,444 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,719,257. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 1 year low of $92.16 and a 1 year high of $150.88. The company has a current ratio of 1.90, a quick ratio of 1.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The company has a market capitalization of $68.21 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.14, a PEG ratio of 0.34 and a beta of 1.53. The company has a 50 day moving average of $114.89 and a two-hundred day moving average of $125.93.

EOG Resources Announces Dividend

EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The energy exploration company reported $2.69 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.42 by $0.27. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 30.92% and a net margin of 33.83%. The company had revenue of $6.04 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.28 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $4.00 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 51.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts expect that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.76 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, July 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 17th will be given a $0.825 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 14th. This represents a $3.30 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.84%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio is currently 20.64%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have issued reports on EOG shares. Mizuho reduced their price target on EOG Resources from $160.00 to $150.00 in a research report on Friday, March 10th. Roth Capital reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of EOG Resources in a research note on Friday, February 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of EOG Resources from $139.00 to $144.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on shares of EOG Resources from $140.00 to $132.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Finally, UBS Group began coverage on shares of EOG Resources in a research note on Wednesday, April 19th. They issued a buy rating and a $152.00 price target for the company. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eighteen have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $150.42.

About EOG Resources

(Get Rating)

EOG Resources, Inc engages in the exploration, development, production and marketing of crude oil and natural gas. It operates through the United States, Trinidad & Tobago, and Other International segments. The company was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Houston, TX.

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George Weston (TSE:WN  Get Rating) had its target price upped by equities researchers at Scotiabank from C$181.00 to C$183.00 in a research report issued on Monday, BayStreet.CA reports. Scotiabanks target price would indicate a potential upside of 4.86% from the companys current price.

Several other brokerages also recently issued reports on WN. Desjardins upped their price objective on George Weston from C$189.00 to C$192.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 2nd. CIBC increased their target price on George Weston from C$204.00 to C$210.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, March 2nd. BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of George Weston from C$172.00 to C$180.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 2nd. Royal Bank of Canada raised their target price on George Weston from C$204.00 to C$215.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. Finally, TD Securities upped their price objective on shares of George Weston from C$190.00 to C$200.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, George Weston presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$196.67.

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George Weston Price Performance

WN stock traded down C$0.59 on Monday, reaching C$174.52. 45,867 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 156,470. The company has a quick ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 156.68. The firm has a market cap of C$24.53 billion, a PE ratio of 14.30, a P/E/G ratio of 3.08 and a beta of 0.38. George Weston has a twelve month low of C$138.77 and a twelve month high of C$183.92. The stock has a fifty day moving average of C$174.02 and a 200-day moving average of C$168.97.

Insider Activity

George Weston ( TSE:WN Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, March 1st. The company reported C$2.59 earnings per share for the quarter. George Weston had a return on equity of 21.35% and a net margin of 3.18%. The company had revenue of C$14.14 billion for the quarter. As a group, equities analysts predict that George Weston will post 11.4993679 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In related news, Senior Officer Richard Dufresne sold 3,425 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$169.68, for a total value of C$581,143.04. In other news, Senior Officer Rashid Wasti sold 300 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, March 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$167.16, for a total transaction of C$50,148.99. Also, Senior Officer Richard Dufresne sold 3,425 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$169.68, for a total value of C$581,143.04. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 4,725 shares of company stock valued at $796,594. 56.22% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About George Weston

(Get Rating)

George Weston Limited provides food and drug retailing, and financial services in Canada and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Loblaw Companies Limited (Loblaw) and Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust (Choice Properties). The Loblaw segment provides grocery, pharmacy, health and beauty, apparel, general merchandise, and financial services.

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Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE:GBTG  Get Rating)s stock price dropped 5.7% on Monday . The stock traded as low as $5.42 and last traded at $5.42. Approximately 9,474 shares were traded during trading, a decline of 88% from the average daily volume of 81,508 shares. The stock had previously closed at $5.75.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have recently commented on the company. Credit Suisse Group restated an outperform rating and set a $9.00 price target on shares of Global Business Travel Group in a research note on Friday, March 10th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on Global Business Travel Group from $9.00 to $8.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Friday, March 10th. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price target on Global Business Travel Group from $6.50 to $7.50 in a research report on Sunday, March 12th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Global Business Travel Group has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $8.68.

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Global Business Travel Group Trading Down 4.0 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a current ratio of 1.60 and a quick ratio of 1.60. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $6.49 and a 200 day moving average price of $6.28.

Institutional Trading of Global Business Travel Group

Global Business Travel Group ( NYSE:GBTG Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, March 9th. The company reported ($0.13) earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.14) by $0.01. The company had revenue of $527.00 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $505.15 million. On average, research analysts expect that Global Business Travel Group, Inc. will post -0.14 earnings per share for the current year.

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Wulff Hansen & CO. acquired a new stake in shares of Global Business Travel Group in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $77,000. Vanguard Group Inc. acquired a new position in Global Business Travel Group during the third quarter worth $1,127,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. acquired a new position in Global Business Travel Group during the second quarter worth $882,000. BlackRock Inc. acquired a new position in Global Business Travel Group during the third quarter worth $704,000. Finally, Prelude Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Global Business Travel Group by 13.4% during the third quarter. Prelude Capital Management LLC now owns 48,645 shares of the companys stock worth $275,000 after purchasing an additional 5,733 shares during the last quarter. 15.91% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Global Business Travel Group

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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.

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Hemenway Trust Co LLC lowered its position in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) by 2.7% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 27,000 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 750 shares during the quarter. Hemenway Trust Co LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $1,383,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC raised its position in shares of Pfizer by 3.6% in the 4th quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 23,977 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,229,000 after purchasing an additional 825 shares during the last quarter. Secure Asset Management LLC raised its position in Pfizer by 3.5% in the 4th quarter. Secure Asset Management LLC now owns 15,835 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $811,000 after buying an additional 537 shares during the last quarter. Naples Global Advisors LLC raised its position in Pfizer by 0.9% in the 4th quarter. Naples Global Advisors LLC now owns 98,766 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $5,061,000 after buying an additional 887 shares during the last quarter. Sterling Investment Counsel LLC raised its position in Pfizer by 5.6% in the 4th quarter. Sterling Investment Counsel LLC now owns 16,593 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $850,000 after buying an additional 878 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Citizens Financial Corp grew its stake in shares of Pfizer by 2.5% during the 4th quarter. First Citizens Financial Corp now owns 11,647 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $597,000 after purchasing an additional 288 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 67.62% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity at Pfizer

In related news, major shareholder Pfizer Inc purchased 1,811,594 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average price of $2.76 per share, for a total transaction of $4,999,999.44. Following the acquisition, the insider now owns 5,952,263 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,428,245.88. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. 0.05% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Pfizer Price Performance

A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on the company. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on Pfizer from $50.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 17th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on Pfizer from $45.00 to $44.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, April 10th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and set a $75.00 price target on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Wednesday, February 1st. Atlantic Securities cut their price objective on Pfizer from $50.00 to $46.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, February 1st. Finally, Bank of America cut their price objective on Pfizer from $50.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, April 21st. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Pfizer presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $48.20.

Shares of PFE traded up $0.09 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $38.58. 11,076,978 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 22,546,930. The company has a market cap of $217.76 billion, a PE ratio of 7.61, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.63. Pfizer Inc. has a 52-week low of $38.02 and a 52-week high of $54.93. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $40.26 and a two-hundred day moving average of $44.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a current ratio of 1.22.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, May 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.00 by $0.23. The business had revenue of $18.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.49 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 38.46% and a net margin of 31.25%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 28.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.62 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.35 earnings per share for the current year.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Stockholders of record on Friday, May 12th will be issued a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 11th. This represents a $1.64 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.25%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 32.28%.

About Pfizer

(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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Shares of Imperial Oil Limited (NYSE:IMO  Get Rating) saw strong trading volume on Monday . 758,318 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 69% from the previous sessions volume of 448,742 shares.The stock last traded at $46.72 and had previously closed at $46.63.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, StockNews.com cut Imperial Oil from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, May 2nd.

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Imperial Oil Stock Up 0.3 %

The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 1.41 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17. The stock has a market capitalization of $27.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.19, a PEG ratio of 0.30 and a beta of 1.54.

About Imperial Oil

Imperial Oil Ltd. engages in the exploration, production, and sale of crude oil and natural gas. It operates through the following business segments: Upstream, Downstream, Chemical, and Corporate and Other. The Upstream segment includes the exploration and production of crude oil, natural gas, synthetic oil, and bitumen.

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Loop Capital downgraded shares of Ingevity (NYSE:NGVT  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note released on Friday morning, The Fly reports. Loop Capital currently has $64.00 price objective on the stock, down from their prior price objective of $92.00.

Several other equities analysts have also recently issued reports on NGVT. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on Ingevity from $85.00 to $80.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Monday, April 17th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Ingevity in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Ingevity currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $77.00.

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Ingevity Trading Down 5.9 %

Shares of NYSE:NGVT opened at $60.57 on Friday. Ingevity has a 12-month low of $59.35 and a 12-month high of $90.81. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $72.47 and its 200-day simple moving average is $75.36. The company has a market capitalization of $2.25 billion, a PE ratio of 11.47 and a beta of 1.81. The company has a current ratio of 2.57, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.07.

Insider Activity

Ingevity ( NYSE:NGVT Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, May 3rd. The company reported $1.09 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.26 by ($0.17). Ingevity had a return on equity of 30.82% and a net margin of 12.01%. The business had revenue of $392.60 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $411.22 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.62 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 2.6% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Ingevity will post 6.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

In related news, EVP Stuart Edward Jr. Woodcock sold 4,968 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.14, for a total value of $408,071.52. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 26,541 shares in the company, valued at $2,180,077.74. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other Ingevity news, SVP Richard Allen White, Jr. sold 1,439 shares of Ingevity stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $81.00, for a total transaction of $116,559.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 6,530 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $528,930. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, EVP Stuart Edward Jr. Woodcock sold 4,968 shares of Ingevity stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.14, for a total value of $408,071.52. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 26,541 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,180,077.74. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 15,254 shares of company stock worth $1,247,519 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.79% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Ingevity

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. increased its position in shares of Ingevity by 7.4% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 4,657,366 shares of the companys stock worth $298,398,000 after purchasing an additional 322,066 shares in the last quarter. LSV Asset Management increased its position in Ingevity by 40.1% in the 4th quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 1,512,255 shares of the companys stock valued at $106,523,000 after acquiring an additional 433,173 shares during the period. State Street Corp increased its position in Ingevity by 3.9% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,258,440 shares of the companys stock valued at $80,628,000 after acquiring an additional 47,263 shares during the period. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans increased its position in Ingevity by 7.5% in the 4th quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 1,032,803 shares of the companys stock valued at $72,751,000 after acquiring an additional 72,490 shares during the period. Finally, Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA increased its position in Ingevity by 12.7% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 928,657 shares of the companys stock valued at $56,304,000 after acquiring an additional 104,938 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.01% of the companys stock.

Ingevity Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Ingevity Corp. engages in the manufacture of specialty chemicals and carbon materials. It operates through the following segments: Performance Chemicals and Performance Materials. The Performance Materials segment consists of automotive technologies and process purifications product families. Automotive technologies produces automotive carbon products used in gasoline vapor emission control systems in cars, trucks, motorcycles and boats.

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Belpointe Asset Management LLC lessened its holdings in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (BATS:FLOT  Get Rating) by 42.5% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 98,660 shares of the companys stock after selling 72,841 shares during the period. Belpointe Asset Management LLCs holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF were worth $4,966,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. TBH Global Asset Management LLC raised its holdings 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 worth $494,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares during the period. Oxinas Partners Wealth Management LLC raised its holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Oxinas Partners Wealth Management LLC now owns 77,720 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,912,000 after buying an additional 212 shares during the period. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich raised its holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 1.6% in the 4th quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 13,625 shares of the companys stock valued at $686,000 after buying an additional 215 shares during the period. Independent Wealth Network Inc. raised its holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 0.7% in the 4th quarter. Independent Wealth Network Inc. now owns 39,499 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,988,000 after buying an additional 256 shares during the period. Finally, Level Four Advisory Services LLC raised its holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 6.2% in the 3rd quarter. Level Four Advisory Services LLC now owns 4,746 shares of the companys stock valued at $239,000 after buying an additional 275 shares during the period.

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iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Up 0.3 %

FLOT traded up $0.13 on Monday, hitting $50.46. The company had a trading volume of 835,362 shares. iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF has a 1 year low of $50.76 and a 1 year high of $51.10. The companys fifty day moving average price is $50.36 and its 200 day moving average price is $50.36.

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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The director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency has issued a warning about the Russian-held Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine and the surrounding community.

Rafael Mariano Grossi said in a statement Saturday that the general situation around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has become "increasingly unpredictable and potentially dangerous."

Grossi said "the nearby town of Enerhodar," where most of the plant staff live, is being evacuated. The operating staff, however, remains on-site at the plant.
iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF (BATS:PICK  Get Rating)s share price reached a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $41.31 and last traded at $41.40, with a volume of 269588 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $41.15.

iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF Stock Performance

The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $41.85 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $42.05. The company has a market capitalization of $1.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.48 and a beta of 1.18.

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Institutional Trading of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Greenline Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF by 69.4% in the 3rd quarter. Greenline Partners LLC now owns 1,680 shares of the companys stock valued at $57,000 after buying an additional 688 shares during the period. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF by 39.1% in the 1st quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 3,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $128,000 after buying an additional 844 shares during the period. Bard Financial Services Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $212,000. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $238,000. Finally, Strategic Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $252,000.

iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF (PICK) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in materials equity. The fund tracks a market-cap-weighted index of global metals mining, extraction or production firms, excluding gold and silver mining firms. PICK was launched on Jan 31, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock.

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JBF Capital Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Corebridge Financial, Inc. (NYSE:CRBG  Get Rating) during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor purchased 85,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,705,000. Corebridge Financial comprises approximately 0.4% of JBF Capital Inc.s holdings, making the stock its 22nd largest position.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of CRBG. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC purchased a new stake in Corebridge Financial in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $85,000. SG Americas Securities LLC purchased a new stake in Corebridge Financial in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $123,000. New York State Common Retirement Fund purchased a new stake in Corebridge Financial in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $185,000. UBS Group AG purchased a new stake in Corebridge Financial in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $186,000. Finally, National Bank of Canada FI purchased a new stake in Corebridge Financial in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $292,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 22.16% of the companys stock.

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Corebridge Financial Stock Performance

Shares of CRBG stock traded up $0.11 on Monday, reaching $16.75. 566,893 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,753,821. Corebridge Financial, Inc. has a 1-year low of $14.01 and a 1-year high of $23.50. The company has a current ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.51. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $16.85 and a two-hundred day moving average of $19.66.

Corebridge Financial Announces Dividend

Corebridge Financial ( NYSE:CRBG Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 17th. The company reported $0.88 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.71 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $5.34 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.28 billion. Research analysts predict that Corebridge Financial, Inc. will post 3.71 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Friday, March 17th were issued a $0.23 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 16th. This represents a $0.92 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.49%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on CRBG shares. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on Corebridge Financial from $28.00 to $21.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. Credit Suisse Group downgraded Corebridge Financial from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and cut their price target for the company from $26.00 to $23.00 in a report on Friday, January 13th. Citigroup initiated coverage on Corebridge Financial in a report on Monday, April 10th. They issued a neutral rating for the company. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $26.00 price target on shares of Corebridge Financial in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded Corebridge Financial from a neutral rating to a buy rating and cut their price target for the company from $25.00 to $23.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Corebridge Financial has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $24.27.

Corebridge Financial Profile

(Get Rating)

Corebridge Financial, Inc provides retirement solutions and insurance products in the United States. It operates through Individual Retirement, Group Retirement, Life Insurance, and Institutional Markets segments. The Individual Retirement segment provides fixed annuities, fixed index annuities, variable annuities and retail mutual funds.

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LSV Asset Management decreased its holdings in shares of The Allstate Co. (NYSE:ALL  Get Rating) by 46.5% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,642,278 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 1,428,168 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Management owned 0.62% of Allstate worth $222,693,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Boston Partners grew its holdings in shares of Allstate by 384.6% during the third quarter. Boston Partners now owns 2,707,454 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $337,094,000 after purchasing an additional 2,148,764 shares during the last quarter. Cowa LLC bought a new stake in shares of Allstate during the first quarter worth about $30,000. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its holdings in shares of Allstate by 549.8% during the third quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 2,476,190 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $308,361,000 after purchasing an additional 2,095,124 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in Allstate by 3.1% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 24,850,782 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $3,442,082,000 after acquiring an additional 745,096 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Great West Life Assurance Co. Can bought a new stake in Allstate in the third quarter valued at approximately $79,031,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.48% of the companys stock.

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Allstate Trading Up 0.3 %

ALL stock traded up $0.29 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $116.02. The company had a trading volume of 188,304 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,900,201. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a current ratio of 0.41. The Allstate Co. has a 12 month low of $103.20 and a 12 month high of $142.15. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $115.28 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $126.08.

Allstate Increases Dividend

Allstate ( NYSE:ALL Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The insurance provider reported ($1.30) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($1.94) by $0.64. Allstate had a negative net margin of 4.33% and a negative return on equity of 7.77%. The company had revenue of $13.79 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.68 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.58 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that The Allstate Co. will post 3.93 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, April 3rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 28th were given a $0.89 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 27th. This represents a $3.56 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.07%. This is a positive change from Allstates previous quarterly dividend of $0.85. Allstates payout ratio is -40.14%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts recently commented on ALL shares. TheStreet cut Allstate from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Wednesday, March 8th. William Blair raised Allstate from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Barclays lowered their price target on Allstate from $125.00 to $122.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on Allstate from $104.00 to $100.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Bank of America increased their price target on Allstate from $145.00 to $147.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, April 21st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $141.15.

Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Jesse E. Merten sold 29,451 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $134.18, for a total transaction of $3,951,735.18. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 16,668 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,236,512.24. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 1.70% of the companys stock.

About Allstate

(Get Rating)

The Allstate Corp. engages in the property and casualty insurance business and the provision of protection solutions. It operates through following business segments: Allstate Protection, Protection Services, Allstate Health and Benefits, Run-off Property-Liability, and Corporate and Other. The Allstate Protection segment offers private passenger auto, homeowners, other personal lines, and commercial insurance marketed under the Allstate, National General, and Answer Financial brand names.

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Magellan Midstream Partners (NYSE:MMP  Get Rating) issued an update on its second quarter 2023 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $1.10-$1.10 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.13. The company issued revenue guidance of -. Magellan Midstream Partners also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $4.95-$4.95 EPS.

Magellan Midstream Partners Price Performance

MMP stock traded up $0.10 during mid-day trading on Friday, hitting $54.46. The company had a trading volume of 1,181,160 shares, compared to its average volume of 598,039. The company has a market capitalization of $11.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.88, a P/E/G ratio of 3.76 and a beta of 0.91. Magellan Midstream Partners has a 12-month low of $44.79 and a 12-month high of $60.55. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.98. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $54.13 and a 200 day moving average price of $52.75.

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Magellan Midstream Partners (NYSE:MMP  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The pipeline company reported $1.06 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.31 by ($0.25). The company had revenue of $861.00 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $855.67 million. Magellan Midstream Partners had a return on equity of 57.36% and a net margin of 33.72%. On average, research analysts anticipate that Magellan Midstream Partners will post 4.95 earnings per share for the current year.

Magellan Midstream Partners Cuts Dividend

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 8th will be given a dividend of $1.0475 per share. This represents a $4.19 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.69%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, May 5th. Magellan Midstream Partnerss dividend payout ratio is 76.04%.

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on MMP. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on shares of Magellan Midstream Partners from $56.00 to $58.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 7th. Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $59.00 target price on shares of Magellan Midstream Partners in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Magellan Midstream Partners in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of Magellan Midstream Partners from $54.00 to $56.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Monday, January 9th. Finally, Citigroup upped their price target on shares of Magellan Midstream Partners from $56.00 to $57.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $56.36.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Magellan Midstream Partners

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MMP. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. grew its stake in Magellan Midstream Partners by 10.0% in the 1st quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 2,697,017 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $132,343,000 after acquiring an additional 246,037 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its stake in Magellan Midstream Partners by 4.7% in the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 51,663 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $2,535,000 after acquiring an additional 2,299 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. grew its stake in Magellan Midstream Partners by 6.7% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 12,003 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $589,000 after acquiring an additional 758 shares in the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL grew its stake in Magellan Midstream Partners by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 200,265 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $9,827,000 after acquiring an additional 4,580 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its stake in shares of Magellan Midstream Partners by 4.4% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 17,177 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $843,000 after purchasing an additional 729 shares in the last quarter. 51.06% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Magellan Midstream Partners

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Magellan Midstream Partners LP engages in the transportation, storage, and distribution of petroleum products and crude oil. It operates through the following segments: Refined Products and Crude Oil. The Refined Products segment consists of an approximately 9,800-mile refined petroleum products pipeline system with 54 terminals and two marine storage terminals.

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McDonalds Co. (NYSE:MCD  Get Rating) insider Jo Sempels sold 6,425 shares of McDonalds stock in a transaction on Friday, May 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $295.10, for a total transaction of $1,896,017.50. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 730 shares of the companys stock, valued at $215,423. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website.

McDonalds Trading Up 0.5 %

Shares of MCD opened at $296.60 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of $216.53 billion, a PE ratio of 31.82, a PEG ratio of 3.13 and a beta of 0.63. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $279.36 and a 200-day simple moving average of $272.38. McDonalds Co. has a 1 year low of $228.34 and a 1 year high of $298.80.

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McDonalds (NYSE:MCD  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, April 25th. The fast-food giant reported $2.63 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.31 by $0.32. McDonalds had a negative return on equity of 122.21% and a net margin of 29.36%. The business had revenue of $5.90 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.58 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $2.28 EPS. The firms revenue was up 4.1% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that McDonalds Co. will post 10.97 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On McDonalds

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Virginia Wealth Management Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of McDonalds by 1.0% in the 1st quarter. Virginia Wealth Management Group Inc. now owns 18,071 shares of the fast-food giants stock valued at $5,053,000 after acquiring an additional 183 shares in the last quarter. ML & R Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in McDonalds during the first quarter worth about $383,000. Alpha DNA Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in McDonalds by 9.4% during the first quarter. Alpha DNA Investment Management LLC now owns 14,902 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $4,167,000 after purchasing an additional 1,279 shares during the period. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC grew its holdings in McDonalds by 26.6% during the first quarter. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC now owns 1,286 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $360,000 after purchasing an additional 270 shares during the period. Finally, Modera Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in McDonalds by 6.8% during the first quarter. Modera Wealth Management LLC now owns 13,471 shares of the fast-food giants stock worth $3,767,000 after purchasing an additional 855 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 66.86% of the companys stock.

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on MCD. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their target price on shares of McDonalds from $270.00 to $290.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Friday, April 21st. BMO Capital Markets boosted their target price on shares of McDonalds from $300.00 to $325.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on shares of McDonalds from $310.00 to $315.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Credit Suisse Group upped their price objective on shares of McDonalds from $300.00 to $320.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Finally, Barclays upped their price objective on shares of McDonalds from $310.00 to $330.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 26th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twenty-four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, McDonalds currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $306.83.

McDonalds Company Profile

(Get Rating)

McDonalds Corp. engages in the operation and franchising of restaurants. It operates through the following segments: U.S., International Operated Markets, and International Developmental Licensed Markets and Corporate. The U.S. segment focuses its operations on the United States. The International Operated Markets segment consists of operations and the franchising of restaurants in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Russia, Spain, and the U.K.

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StockNews.com cut shares of Medifast (NYSE:MED  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report released on Friday.

Separately, DA Davidson decreased their price target on Medifast from $94.00 to $71.00 in a research note on Tuesday, May 2nd.

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Medifast Stock Up 3.2 %

Shares of MED stock opened at $90.97 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $990.66 million, a P/E ratio of 7.12 and a beta of 1.24. Medifast has a twelve month low of $80.52 and a twelve month high of $192.44. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $99.50 and its 200 day simple moving average is $110.19.

Medifast Increases Dividend

Medifast ( NYSE:MED Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, May 1st. The specialty retailer reported $3.67 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.40 by $1.27. The business had revenue of $349.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $319.50 million. Medifast had a return on equity of 106.70% and a net margin of 9.27%. Medifasts quarterly revenue was down 16.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $3.59 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Medifast will post 7.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, May 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, March 28th will be paid a $1.65 dividend. This is a boost from Medifasts previous quarterly dividend of $1.64. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, March 27th. This represents a $6.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 7.26%. Medifasts dividend payout ratio is presently 51.68%.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director Scott Schlackman sold 2,200 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $108.68, for a total value of $239,096.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 7,280 shares of the companys stock, valued at $791,190.40. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Insiders own 2.30% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Medifast

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in MED. Raymond James & Associates boosted its position in shares of Medifast by 437.5% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 14,550 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $2,485,000 after purchasing an additional 11,843 shares in the last quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. boosted its position in shares of Medifast by 4.5% during the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 1,488 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $254,000 after purchasing an additional 64 shares in the last quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Medifast by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 2,600 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $443,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares in the last quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC boosted its holdings in Medifast by 7.0% in the first quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC now owns 3,077 shares of the specialty retailers stock worth $526,000 after acquiring an additional 200 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Citigroup Inc. grew its stake in Medifast by 19.1% in the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 13,490 shares of the specialty retailers stock valued at $2,304,000 after acquiring an additional 2,166 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 86.03% of the companys stock.

About Medifast

(Get Rating)

Medifast, Inc engages in the provision of healthy living products and programs. It offers the OPTAVIA brand, a lifestyle solution centered on developing new healthy habits through smaller, foundational changes called micro-habits. The firms product line includes bars, bites, pretzels, puffs, cereal crunch, drinks, hearty choices, oatmeal, pancakes, pudding, soft serve, shakes, smoothies, soft bakes, and soups.

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Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $11.21-11.29 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.21. The company issued revenue guidance of $9.725-9.775 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $9.71 billion. Motorola Solutions also updated its FY 2023 guidance to $11.21-$11.29 EPS.

Motorola Solutions Stock Performance

NYSE:MSI traded down $8.85 during trading hours on Friday, reaching $281.56. 1,501,288 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 631,246. The company has a quick ratio of 0.92, a current ratio of 1.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 45.90. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $278.36 and a 200-day simple moving average of $265.40. Motorola Solutions has a 52 week low of $195.18 and a 52 week high of $295.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.09 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.20, a P/E/G ratio of 3.20 and a beta of 0.93.

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Motorola Solutions (NYSE:MSI  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 4th. The communications equipment provider reported $2.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.05 by $0.17. The business had revenue of $2.17 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.12 billion. Motorola Solutions had a negative return on equity of 744.78% and a net margin of 14.63%. The businesss revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.53 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Motorola Solutions will post 10.08 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Motorola Solutions Dividend Announcement

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 15th were issued a $0.88 dividend. This represents a $3.52 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.25%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. Motorola Solutionss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 44.00%.

MSI has been the topic of several analyst reports. Barclays raised their target price on Motorola Solutions from $303.00 to $329.00 in a research report on Friday. Credit Suisse Group cut Motorola Solutions from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and lowered their target price for the company from $300.00 to $270.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 11th. Edward Jones cut Motorola Solutions from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded Motorola Solutions from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their target price for the company from $300.00 to $305.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised their target price on Motorola Solutions from $310.00 to $335.00 in a research report on Friday. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Motorola Solutions currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $301.67.

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 26,933 shares of Motorola Solutions stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.25, for a total value of $7,305,576.25. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 48,142 shares in the company, valued at approximately $13,058,517.50. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, SVP Cynthia Yazdi sold 8,734 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.37, for a total value of $2,361,411.58. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 2,873 shares of the companys stock, valued at $776,773.01. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CEO Gregory Q. Brown sold 26,933 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $271.25, for a total value of $7,305,576.25. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 48,142 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,058,517.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 37,167 shares of company stock worth $10,066,483. 1.50% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of Motorola Solutions

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its position in Motorola Solutions by 11.6% during the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 3,918 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $949,000 after purchasing an additional 406 shares during the last quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. boosted its position in Motorola Solutions by 3.1% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 11,087 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $2,685,000 after purchasing an additional 329 shares during the last quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. boosted its position in Motorola Solutions by 8.8% during the first quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 2,870 shares of the communications equipment providers stock valued at $695,000 after purchasing an additional 231 shares during the last quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Motorola Solutions in the first quarter worth about $225,000. Finally, Baird Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Motorola Solutions by 7.3% in the first quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 55,177 shares of the communications equipment providers stock worth $13,362,000 after buying an additional 3,741 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.67% of the companys stock.

Motorola Solutions Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Motorola Solutions, Inc engages in the provision of communication infrastructure, devices, accessories, software, and services. It operates through the following segments: Products and Systems Integration, and Software and Services. The Products and Systems Integration segment offers a portfolio of infrastructure, devices, accessories, and video security devices, and the implementation and integration of such systems, devices, and applications.

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Okabena Investment Services Inc. lessened its holdings in shares of Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) by 73.5% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,906 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 5,275 shares during the period. Okabena Investment Services Inc.s holdings in Accenture were worth $509,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in shares of Accenture by 502.3% in the 3rd quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 2,191,413 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $563,851,000 after buying an additional 1,827,551 shares during the period. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. lifted its holdings in Accenture by 41.6% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. now owns 5,457,405 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,404,190,000 after buying an additional 1,603,071 shares in the last quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC acquired a new stake in Accenture during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $318,306,000. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Accenture by 1.4% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 58,473,666 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $15,045,274,000 after buying an additional 816,734 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Two Sigma Investments LP lifted its holdings in Accenture by 2,831.4% during the 3rd quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 747,761 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $192,399,000 after buying an additional 722,252 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 73.97% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Accenture

In related news, insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $275.90, for a total transaction of $1,448,475.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 26,908 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,423,917.20. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, insider Jean-Marc Ollagnier sold 6,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred 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 of the companys stock, valued at $48,753,965.04. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $275.90, for a total transaction of $1,448,475.00. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 26,908 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,423,917.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 15,010 shares of company stock valued at $4,180,030 over the last quarter. Corporate insiders own 0.08% of the companys stock.

Accenture Stock Down 0.1 %

Shares of NYSE ACN traded down $0.37 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $265.28. The company had a trading volume of 290,955 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,338,192. The firm has a market capitalization of $167.62 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 1.25. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $271.20 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $276.57. Accenture plc has a twelve month low of $242.80 and a twelve month high of $322.88.

Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 23rd. The information technology services provider reported $2.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.49 by $0.20. Accenture had a net margin of 11.00% and a return on equity of 30.73%. The company had revenue of $15.81 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.59 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.54 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 5.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts forecast that Accenture plc will post 11.57 EPS for the current year.

Accenture Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 13th will be issued a $1.12 dividend. This represents a $4.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.69%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, April 12th. Accentures dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 41.25%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Accenture from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday. Edward Jones upgraded shares of Accenture from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Accenture in a report on Monday, March 20th. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price objective on shares of Accenture from $335.00 to $340.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, March 24th. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Accenture from $340.00 to $325.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and thirteen 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 $314.00.

Accenture Company Profile

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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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InterOcean Capital Group LLC decreased its holdings in Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) by 7.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 368,673 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 28,820 shares during the quarter. InterOcean Capital Group LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $18,891,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of PFE. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. lifted its stake in shares of Pfizer by 528.9% in the third quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 12,401,164 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $542,675,000 after acquiring an additional 10,429,412 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its holdings in Pfizer by 13.2% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 59,828,849 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,097,341,000 after buying an additional 6,972,650 shares during the last quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC bought a new stake in Pfizer in the first quarter valued at about $311,238,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Pfizer by 1.1% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 493,584,761 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $21,599,270,000 after buying an additional 5,139,634 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP increased its holdings in Pfizer by 108.3% in the first quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 7,909,665 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $409,483,000 after buying an additional 4,112,528 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 67.62% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages recently weighed in on PFE. Atlantic Securities lowered their price objective on Pfizer from $50.00 to $46.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. BMO Capital Markets lowered their target price on Pfizer from $55.00 to $53.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Daiwa Capital Markets raised Pfizer from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $51.00 target price for the company in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Berenberg Bank set a $40.00 target price on Pfizer in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group reduced their price objective on Pfizer from $54.00 to $50.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $48.20.

Pfizer Price Performance

PFE traded up $0.05 during trading on Monday, reaching $38.54. The stock had a trading volume of 6,185,339 shares, compared to its average volume of 22,499,768. The firm has a market capitalization of $217.54 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.61, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.63. 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 Inc. has a 1-year low of $38.02 and a 1-year high of $54.93. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $40.26 and a two-hundred day moving average of $44.97.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, May 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.23 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.23. The firm had revenue of $18.28 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.49 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 38.46% and a net margin of 31.25%. The firms revenue for the quarter was down 28.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.62 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 9th. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.41 per share. This represents a $1.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.26%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 11th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 32.28%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Pfizer

In other Pfizer news, major shareholder Pfizer Inc bought 1,811,594 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $2.76 per share, with a total value of $4,999,999.44. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 5,952,263 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $16,428,245.88. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.05% of the companys stock.

Pfizer Profile

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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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PNM Resources (NYSE:PNM  Get Rating) issued an update on its FY23 earnings guidance on Friday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of $2.65-2.75 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.72.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

PNM has been the topic of several research analyst reports. StockNews.com began coverage on PNM Resources in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Mizuho lowered PNM Resources from a buy rating to a neutral rating and lowered their target price for the company from $51.00 to $50.30 in a report on Monday, January 9th.

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PNM Resources Stock Up 1.2 %

PNM Resources stock opened at $48.39 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73, a quick ratio of 0.39 and a current ratio of 0.46. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.32 and a beta of 0.42. PNM Resources has a fifty-two week low of $43.43 and a fifty-two week high of $49.60. The stocks fifty day moving average is $48.73 and its two-hundred day moving average is $48.60.

PNM Resources Dividend Announcement

PNM Resources ( NYSE:PNM Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Friday, May 5th. The utilities provider reported $0.55 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.39 by $0.16. PNM Resources had a return on equity of 10.46% and a net margin of 7.55%. The company had revenue of $544.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $460.14 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.50 earnings per share. PNM Resourcess revenue was up 22.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that PNM Resources will post 2.66 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, May 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 28th will be given a $0.368 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 27th. This represents a $1.47 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.04%. PNM Resourcess dividend payout ratio is currently 60.74%.

Institutional Trading of PNM Resources

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in PNM. State Street Corp lifted its position in PNM Resources by 17.5% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 3,160,826 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $150,677,000 after buying an additional 471,143 shares during the period. Neuberger Berman Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of PNM Resources in the 1st quarter worth about $15,929,000. Two Sigma Investments LP raised its holdings in shares of PNM Resources by 1,788.3% in the 4th quarter. Two Sigma Investments LP now owns 322,310 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $15,726,000 after purchasing an additional 305,241 shares during the period. Man Group plc purchased a new position in shares of PNM Resources in the 4th quarter worth about $13,663,000. Finally, FMR LLC raised its holdings in shares of PNM Resources by 114.0% in the 2nd quarter. FMR LLC now owns 291,548 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $13,930,000 after purchasing an additional 155,338 shares during the period. 89.88% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

PNM Resources Company Profile

(Get Rating)

PNM Resources, Inc operates as an investor-owned holding company, which provides electricity and electric services in New Mexico and Texas. It operates through the following segments: Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP), and Corporate and Other. The PNM segment includes the retail electric utility operations of the company.

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President Yoon Suk-yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday agreed to pay tribute to Korean victims of the atomic bombing in Hiroshima when Yoon visits Japan again later this month. On the sidelines of the G7 summit that starts May 19, Yoon and Kishida will pay tribute at a memorial for an estimated 20,000-30,000 Koreans, many of them forced laborers, who were killed when the atomic bomb fell on Hiroshima in August 1945.

President Yoon Suk-yeol (right) shakes hands with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at the presidential office in Yongsan, Seoul on Sunday. /Yonhap

The two leaders agreed to make the gesture during the first visit from a Japanese prime minister to Seoul in 12 years. An official at the presidential office said, "The Japanese side proposed visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and to pay respects at the memorial. The gesture appears to demonstrate Japan's intention to sincerely face up to historical issues in word and action." "For me personally, my heart aches when I think of the many people who endured terrible suffering and grief under the difficult circumstances of the time," Kishida said. Referring to Yoon's proposal in March to compensate victims of wartime forced labor from a Korean fund instead of Japanese companies, he added, "I was moved by the many people who opened their hearts for the future without forgetting the painful memories of the past."

President Yoon Suk-yeol (2nd from right) and first lady Kim Keon-hee pose for a photo with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife Yuko Kishida at the presidential office in Yongsan, Seoul on Sunday. /Newsis

Speaking at a joint press conference after their meeting, Kishida said, "When Yoon visited Japan last March, I clearly stated that the Japanese government inherits the entire historical perceptions of past governments, including the 1998 joint declaration. This position will remain unwavering in the future." In efforts to tackle other points of contention that have weighed on bilateral relations, the two leaders also agreed that a team of Korean experts from the Foreign Ministry and Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will visit Japan on May 23 to inspect wastewater from the damaged nuclear power plant in Fukushima before it is released into the ocean. "I hope that meaningful measures will be taken in consideration of the people's demand for objective and scientific verification," Yoon said. Kishida promised that no "discharge that adversely affects the health of the people of Japan and Korea and the marine environment... will be permitted." Japan is currently being inspected by the International Atomic Energy Agency before releasing wastewater from the Fukushima plant that was damaged during a massive tsunami in 2011. Yoon also voiced hopes of better cooperation between Korean and Japanese producers of chipmaking equipment and materials.

President Yoon Suk-yeol (left) and first lady Kim Keon-hee dine with their Japanese counterparts at the presidential residence in Hannam-dong, Seoul on Sunday. /News1

After the summit, they had dinner at Yoon's official residence with their wives Kim Keon-hee and Yuko Kishida. Kishida is only the second foreign leader to be invited to the new presidential residence -- the first was Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman last November. They ate bulgogi or marinated beef, galbijjim or barbecued beef ribs, japchae or stir-fried cellophane noodles with vegetables and tangpyeongchae or mung bean jelly salad. On arrival on Sunday, Kishida visited the National Cemetery in Seoul, where the remains of Korean veterans including those who died in the Korean independence movement, Korean War, and Vietnam War are buried. Kishida meets with Korean economic leaders on Monday before flying to Tokyo in the afternoon.
Prospera Financial Services Inc boosted its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO  Get Rating) by 3.9% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 23,304 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 883 shares during the quarter. Prospera Financial Services Incs holdings in Novo Nordisk A/S were worth $3,154,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Resonant Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S during the 4th quarter worth about $258,000. Keybank National Association OH grew its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 11.1% in the 3rd quarter. Keybank National Association OH now owns 27,511 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,741,000 after purchasing an additional 2,755 shares during the period. Westside Investment Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 46.5% in the 4th quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 879 shares of the companys stock valued at $118,000 after purchasing an additional 279 shares during the period. Brookstone Capital Management grew its position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S by 6.1% in the 4th quarter. Brookstone Capital Management now owns 8,304 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,151,000 after purchasing an additional 479 shares during the period. Finally, Old North State Trust LLC acquired a new position in shares of Novo Nordisk A/S in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $41,000. 6.09% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on NVO shares. Credit Suisse Group raised Novo Nordisk A/S from a neutral rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Novo Nordisk A/S in a research 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, two have given a hold rating, six have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $657.14.

Novo Nordisk A/S Stock Performance

Novo Nordisk A/S Company Profile

NVO opened at $169.58 on Monday. The firm has a market cap of $383.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.59 and a beta of 0.48. Novo Nordisk A/S has a 52-week low of $95.02 and a 52-week high of $172.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 0.69 and a current ratio of 0.89. The businesss fifty day moving average is $155.49 and its 200-day moving average is $138.04.

(Get Rating)

Novo Nordisk A/S is a global healthcare company, which engages in the the discovery, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceutical products. It operates through the Diabetes and Obesity Care, and Biopharm segments. The Diabetes and Obesity Care segment includes insulin, GLP-1 and related delivery systems, oral antidiabetic products (OAD), obesity, and other serious chronic diseases.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Renren (NYSE:RENN  Get Rating) in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning. The firm issued a hold rating on the technology companys stock.

Renren Trading Down 0.9 %

Renren stock opened at $1.11 on Friday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $1.40 and a 200-day moving average of $11.39. Renren has a 52 week low of $1.10 and a 52 week high of $33.91.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On Renren

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Two Seas Capital LP raised its position in shares of Renren by 26.5% during the 3rd quarter. Two Seas Capital LP now owns 502,925 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $14,892,000 after acquiring an additional 105,270 shares in the last quarter. US Bancorp DE increased its position in Renren by 1,401.2% in the third quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 2,477 shares of the technology companys stock worth $73,000 after buying an additional 2,312 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. increased its position in Renren by 87.7% in the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 7,947 shares of the technology companys stock worth $235,000 after buying an additional 3,714 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada increased its position in Renren by 103.0% in the first quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 7,350 shares of the technology companys stock worth $161,000 after buying an additional 3,730 shares during the period. Finally, UBS Group AG increased its position in Renren by 33.2% in the second quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 4,453 shares of the technology companys stock worth $129,000 after buying an additional 1,111 shares during the period. 21.71% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Renren Company Profile

Renren, Inc engages in the Software as a Service (SaaS) business, which includes an all-in-one real estate solution provider and a large community for the trucking industry in the United States. The company was founded by Chen Yi Zhou in November 2002 and is headquartered in Phoenix, AZ.

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StockNews.com downgraded shares of Gran Tierra Energy (NYSEAMERICAN:GTE  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note released on Thursday morning.

Gran Tierra Energy Trading Up 3.1 %

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN:GTE opened at $6.23 on Thursday. Gran Tierra Energy has a 12-month low of $6.00 and a 12-month high of $21.50. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $10.00 and its 200-day simple moving average is $11.84. The company has a market capitalization of $2.15 billion, a PE ratio of 16.84 and a beta of 1.71. The company has a current ratio of 0.70, a quick ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.41.

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Gran Tierra Energy (NYSEAMERICAN:GTE  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 21st. The company reported $0.90 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $162.64 million during the quarter. Gran Tierra Energy had a return on equity of 36.99% and a net margin of 19.54%.

Insider Transactions at Gran Tierra Energy

Institutional Trading of Gran Tierra Energy

In other Gran Tierra Energy news, CFO Ryan Ellson acquired 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $7.10 per share, with a total value of $35,500.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 70,148 shares of the companys stock, valued at $498,050.80. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink . Insiders own 6.45% of the companys stock.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in GTE. BlackRock Inc. lifted its position in Gran Tierra Energy by 25.5% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 128,674 shares of the companys stock worth $202,000 after acquiring an additional 26,105 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc. raised its stake in shares of Gran Tierra Energy by 193.8% during the 1st quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 81,826 shares of the companys stock valued at $128,000 after buying an additional 53,974 shares during the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP purchased a new position in shares of Gran Tierra Energy during the 1st quarter valued at about $25,000. XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Gran Tierra Energy during the 1st quarter valued at about $85,000. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership purchased a new position in shares of Gran Tierra Energy during the 1st quarter valued at about $7,986,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 32.83% of the companys stock.

About Gran Tierra Energy

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Gran Tierra Energy, Inc engages in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas in Colombia and Ecuador. It holds interests in the assets located in the Middle Magdalena Valley and Putumayo Basins. The company was founded on June 6, 2003 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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Shares of The Berkeley Group Holdings plc (OTCMKTS:BKGFY  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $11.55 and last traded at $11.41, with a volume of 16454 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $11.40.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have recently commented on BKGFY. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on The Berkeley Group from GBX 4,500 ($56.22) to GBX 4,800 ($59.97) in a report on Tuesday, April 18th. Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of The Berkeley Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their price objective on shares of The Berkeley Group from GBX 3,807 ($47.56) to GBX 3,992 ($49.88) in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Morgan Stanley lowered shares of The Berkeley Group from an equal weight rating to an underweight rating in a report on Tuesday, January 31st. Finally, HSBC upgraded The Berkeley Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have given a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $4,169.00.

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The Berkeley Group Price Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 0.57 and a current ratio of 3.36. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $10.41 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $9.84.

The Berkeley Group Increases Dividend

The Berkeley Group Company Profile

The firm also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Monday, April 10th. Shareholders of record on Monday, March 6th were given a $0.1474 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.9%. This is a positive change from The Berkeley Groups previous dividend of $0.05. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, March 3rd.

(Get Rating)

Berkeley Group Holdings Plc engages in the development of residential and mixed-use properties. It operates through the following brands: Berkeley, St. James, St. George, St. Edward, St. Joseph, and St. William. The company was founded by Anthony William Pidgley and Jim Farrer in 1976 and is headquartered in Cobham, the United Kingdom.

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Thunder Mountain Gold (OTCMKTS:THMG  Get Rating) is one of 103 public companies in the Metal mining industry, but how does it contrast to its competitors? We will compare Thunder Mountain Gold to related businesses based on the strength of its valuation, institutional ownership, profitability, analyst recommendations, earnings, risk and dividends.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

0.0% of Thunder Mountain Gold shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 22.2% of shares of all Metal mining companies are held by institutional investors. 29.5% of Thunder Mountain Gold shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 11.5% of shares of all Metal mining companies 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.

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Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations for Thunder Mountain Gold and its competitors, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Thunder Mountain Gold 0 0 0 0 N/A Thunder Mountain Gold Competitors 923 2156 2772 96 2.34

Earnings & Valuation

As a group, Metal mining companies have a potential upside of 30.09%. Given Thunder Mountain Golds competitors higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Thunder Mountain Gold has less favorable growth aspects than its competitors.

This table compares Thunder Mountain Gold and its competitors gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Thunder Mountain Gold $300,000.00 -$1.25 million -3.76 Thunder Mountain Gold Competitors $8.06 billion $2.16 billion -5.92

Thunder Mountain Golds competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Thunder Mountain Gold. Thunder Mountain Gold is trading at a higher price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more expensive than other companies in its industry.

Risk & Volatility

Thunder Mountain Gold has a beta of 0.89, suggesting that its share price is 11% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Thunder Mountain Golds competitors have a beta of 0.30, suggesting that their average share price is 70% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Thunder Mountain Gold and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Thunder Mountain Gold -415.33% -185.48% -59.67% Thunder Mountain Gold Competitors -403.44% -3.96% -3.78%

Summary

Thunder Mountain Gold competitors beat Thunder Mountain Gold on 7 of the 10 factors compared.

Thunder Mountain Gold Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Thunder Mountain Gold, Inc. operates as a mineral exploration company, which engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of premier precious and base metal properties. Its projects include South Mountain located southwest of Boise, Idaho and Trout Creek located in Nevada. The company was founded on November 9, 1935 and is headquartered in Boise, ID.

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Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLC raised its stake in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Get Rating) by 26.3% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 3,393 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 707 shares during the period. Tranquilli Financial Advisor LLCs holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF were worth $329,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of AGG. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management boosted its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 145.5% in the first quarter. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management now owns 6,590 shares of the companys stock valued at $705,000 after buying an additional 3,906 shares in the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 36.2% during the first quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 52,003 shares of the companys stock worth $5,570,000 after purchasing an additional 13,829 shares during the last quarter. Worth Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF during the first quarter worth $44,000. Baltimore Washington Financial Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF during the first quarter worth $241,000. Finally, West Michigan Advisors LLC raised its holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 2.0% during the first quarter. West Michigan Advisors LLC now owns 14,640 shares of the companys stock worth $1,568,000 after purchasing an additional 292 shares during the last quarter. 80.07% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Stock Performance

AGG stock traded down $0.46 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $99.19. 2,743,347 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 7,056,888. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $99.02 and its 200-day moving average price is $98.32. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a fifty-two week low of $93.20 and a fifty-two week high of $104.39.

About iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AGG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Get Rating).

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Utah Retirement Systems reduced its holdings in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Rating) by 0.9% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 378,230 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 3,600 shares during the quarter. Utah Retirement Systems holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $27,214,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Grimes & Company Inc. lifted its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.6% during the 3rd quarter. Grimes & Company Inc. now owns 295,464 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $21,005,000 after buying an additional 4,778 shares during the last quarter. IFP Advisors Inc increased its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.7% in the 4th quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 55,629 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,024,000 after purchasing an additional 956 shares in the last quarter. Meritage Portfolio Management increased its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 3.3% in the 4th quarter. Meritage Portfolio Management now owns 39,915 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,872,000 after purchasing an additional 1,288 shares in the last quarter. Baron Silver Stevens Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter worth about $316,000. Finally, BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 23.2% in the 4th quarter. BerganKDV Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,990 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $143,000 after purchasing an additional 375 shares in the last quarter. 75.51% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Stock Up 0.5 %

NYSE:BMY traded up $0.36 on Monday, hitting $68.50. The stock had a trading volume of 3,918,733 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,970,084. The businesss fifty day moving average is $68.58 and its 200 day moving average is $72.59. The company has a market cap of $143.91 billion, a PE ratio of 19.91, a P/E/G ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 0.44. The company has a quick ratio of 1.28, a current ratio of 1.42 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.10. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a 52 week low of $65.28 and a 52 week high of $81.43.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

Bristol-Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, April 27th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $2.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.98 by $0.07. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 51.75% and a net margin of 15.95%. The business had revenue of $11.34 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.50 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.96 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 2.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts expect that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 8.04 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, May 1st. Investors of record on Monday, April 10th were given a dividend of $0.57 per share. This represents a $2.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.33%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, April 6th. Bristol-Myers Squibbs payout ratio is 66.47%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

BMY has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Atlantic Securities upped their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $88.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Friday, February 3rd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a strong-buy rating for the company. Barclays decreased their price target on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $66.00 to $65.00 in a research note on Monday, May 1st. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, March 6th. They issued a hold rating and a $62.00 price target for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley increased their price target 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. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating, seven have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Bristol-Myers Squibb presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $79.43.

Insider Activity at Bristol-Myers Squibb

In related news, EVP Rupert Vessey sold 50,385 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, May 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $67.06, for a total transaction of $3,378,818.10. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 47,751 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,202,182.06. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

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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Sales of Japanese beer and cars in Korea have surged now that relations between the scrappy neighbors are improving.

Japanese beer sales rose in the first quarter of the year to the highest level since Koreans began to boycott all things Japanese as relations soured in July 2019.

According to the Korea Customs Service, imports totaled US$6.63 million in the first quarter, up 2.5 times compared to a year ago and the biggest quarterly amount since the second quarter of 2019.

Japanese beer topped the import market in Korea from 2010 to 2018 but dropped sharply to $4.57 million in the third quarter of 2019.

At that time, Japanese beer practically disappeared from supermarket shelves and fell to ninth place but gradually returned to third place after Chinese and Dutch beer.
Weather Alert

...LOCALLY DENSE FOG THIS MORNING... Patchy fog has developed across much of the area this morning and has become locally dense at times. The fog is fairly shallow, but visibility may drop as low as a quarter to half mile at times through sunrise. Expect conditions to quickly improve between 7 and 8 am. Please allow extra time to reach your destination if traveling this morning and remember to use low-beam headlights when encountering fog.
Korea and Canada have agreed to expand the quota of their annual "working holiday" program from the current 4,000 to more than 10,000 young people who can come and work a certain number of hours while they get to know the country.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will announce the plan when he meets President Yoon Suk-yeol in Seoul in mid-May to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

The special visa allows people aged 18-30 to do anything they want from language classes to work training for a year. Currently, Korea has working holiday exchange programs with 23 countries including Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the U.K.

Korea and Canada have increased their annual quota from 200 to 4,000 since they first signed the agreement in 1996. Working holidays in Canada are so popular here that more than 10,000 young people apply every year, and more than 16,000 young Koreans visited Canada on the visa from 2017 to 2021.

Last September, Korea and Canada agreed to temporarily increase this year's quota to 6,500. Trudeau visits Seoul ahead of the G7 summit on May 19-21 in Japan and is expected to agree to raise the age limit and fix the quota at 10,000-12,000 on a permanent basis.

The two countries are also expected to expand defense cooperation. In a new Indo-Pacific strategy released last year, Seoul pledged to expand cooperation with Ottawa in a variety of fields such as security and the resource supply chain networks by categorizing it as a Northern Pacific country alongside Mongolia.
I spoke with David Pastor Vico by video call, as its impossible for him to move from his house in Utrera, in the Spanish province of Seville. He is currently cancer-free, but is receiving immunotherapy  he also just passed a very painful kidney stone. Im so fucked up, it was like giving birth, he says. Known as Vico to his students, readers and followers, he doesnt mince words.

On the right side of his skull, a circular scar reminds him of the operation he underwent  he takes note of it each time he looks in the mirror. Well get to the disease that almost killed him, but we primarily got together to speak about his book of practical philosophy, which is dedicated to young people and adolescents.

Question. Your twin girls are three-years-old. Will your book help them when they reach adolescence?

Answer. [The Spanish philosopher] Ortega y Gasset used to say that generations succeed each other every 15 years, but that the big changes happen every 30 years. Thats why grandparents love their grandchildren very much, even if they dont understand them. I hope that when my daughters grow up, it will still be a good read for them. I know I probably wont make it to see my grandchildren, though.

Q. Is it harder to be a teenager today than when you were growing up?

A. Yes, because today, its difficult for them to naturally integrate into a group. We were lucky to have urban tribes  we were lucky that social media didnt exist, that we didnt have cell phones, that there was no Instagram. We had to go out, walk, ask questions, have fun, develop social skills [All of this] is essential at that stage of life. Today, teenagers are spread out in an immense ocean looking for each other. They feel what human beings have always felt: anxiety, depression, uncertainty But they dont know how to deal with [these emotions]. My book can help them.

Q. Is social media so terrible?

A. I dont know if its so terrible The problem is that we dont really understand it. Kids think they do, but they use [social media] in a mechanical way. Even the inventors [of social media platforms] are banning their children from screen time; they want to return to analog education. Social media isnt the devil, but we dont know enough [about the effects] to affirm the contrary.

Q. At what age will you let your daughters have a cell phone?

A. I havent planned a date. At the moment, I dont even let them play on my own cellphone. When the time comes, Ill just get them flip phones. They will be the laughingstock of their class, but they will say that their father is that weird because he is a philosopher, and, if they get annoying, he will come to school to give a lecture and, maybe, he will convince their parents not to let them use cellphones either.

Q. Youre not afraid theyll be fodder for bullies?

A. Bullying isnt a problem of self-esteem, but of socialization. Bullying occurs because there is no group [to defend you]. My ambition is for my daughters to play with everyone, interact with everyone and, if I dont let them use my cell phone, they can tell the rest that its just the way their father is, and theyll still be respected. I, too, was an outcast as a child. For being a nerd, for being chubby, for being weird. But I had social skills that saved me. [Being able to] approach a group of people. In my case, it was heavy-metal that saved my life in various complicated episodes of my youth. Without friends, were nobody. Friends are part of us. There is no humanity without friendship.

Q. Is someone who doesnt have friends not human?

A. Those who do not have them do not know the harm of not having them. It is like a blind man who does not see the sky, but imagines it in his own way. No, sorry, if you cant see the sky, you dont know what its really like. Friends are your real personal patrimony. The tragedy is not having friends and believing you dont need them.

Q. What is solitude?

A. Unwanted loneliness is a disease and a condemnation. Of course, sought-after solitude can be satisfying, but unwanted solitude makes us sick and can kill us. In fact, when we want to punish someone, we put them in jail, and, if we really want to fuck them up, we isolate them.

Q. Do young people suffer more today than in the past? Are they fragile?

A. Maybe, but its all due to a distortion regarding how they perceive themselves. Thats why its so important to know yourself. If Im clear about my failures and my positive aspects, I may still have bad moments in my studies, my family, my life but at least Ill be armed.

But if no one has told me that this self-knowledge cannot be done in solitude, that I am not the only one in the world to whom this happens, I will be a prey to the evils of the spirit. I say to know oneself, not to conform. I hate the be yourself, the who follows, gets it, the if you want it badly enough, it will happen. If you dont know yourself and dont act, shit doesnt happen. We are so small, and we are at the mercy of so many things. Look at me, Ive been pissing a stone all fucking week.

Q. But we always want to protect our children from suffering.

A. Thats in our nature  were the only species that wants to take care of children for life. And the law of life is that they need to fly. Let them fly! The problem is when children stay at their moms house until the age of 40, and were happy about it.

Q. What would you say to a lady who suffers from empty nest syndrome because her 25-year-old daughter has left home? Im asking for a friend.

A. I would tell her to fuck more (laughs). Seriously though, I would tell her to be happy because her baby [is flying] and to fill her life with other things.

Q. Its probably easier to get laid than to find a friend.

A. Thats very probable. Thanks to the change in morality, sexual issues are taken as a natural thing  there are even apps that can help. In my day, it was much more difficult to find a [sexual partner]... Now, its difficult to make friends, because weve given ourselves so much importance. Fear of failure or rejection prevents us from getting closer to others. Or having bad experiences. I always say the same thing: if you had a bad meal, dont stop eating. If a friend betrays you, keep trying until you find [true friendship].

Q. Why do you curse so much?

A. My language is very casual because I need to establish an immediate connection with readers. When a philosopher says shit instead of excrete, hes doing humanity a favor.

The philosopher David Pastor Vico. Bernardo Perez Tovar

Q. Youve said that youre only alive because of a miracle. How did you find out that you had cancer?

A. While combing my beautiful curly hair down to my waist. One day, when I was 45, I burst a mole I had had since I was a child. I started to bleed a lot, I was cured but, a week later, I had a tumor as big as a mushroom. I got scared. I went to the dermatologist. Six millimeter implantation melanoma. If you have one, you can be cured. With six, youre really screwed. And even more so with an irradiated lymph node, as I had. The statistics go down to six months of life  a year at the most.

Q. Did you freak out?

A. I left the clinic [in Mexico] and made three calls. One, crying, to my wife. Another, to my father, in Spain. By the third, I pulled myself together. I went through all the phases of mourning in half-an-hour. They told me I was late and needed to rush. The surgeons operated on me in Mexico and left me with this scar  like the bottom of a Coca-Cola can  and the worst part is that my hair wont grow back there, because its a skin implant from my leg. The operation was a success, but afterward, the alternative was immunotherapy, and I couldnt afford it in Mexico. I had to go home. It turns out that the Spanish public health system [managed to] keep me alive in a hospital next to my childhood home.

I was born in Belgium because my parents emigrated, to be able to eat. I returned to Seville at the age of six. I grew up and migrated to Mexico, because in Spain, I couldnt find a job as a philosopher. The National University of Mexico invited me as a professor and, just when I imagined that country as a home, I had to return to my hometown, literally to stay alive. Im a survivor.

Q. Why should people buy your book?

A. Its a tool. Not to be happy, but to not suffer. It is not a Satisfyer, nor a Lexatin, because that is temporary and the philosophy remains. It raises ideas that can change your mind, your way of thinking, and if it changes your way of thinking it changes your way of living. Im not the one who says that Plato, Aristotle and Epicurus say it.

Q. Is classical philosophy still alive?

A. A good philosopher  good philosophy  can save you from going to the psychologist. It can save your life. And that bothers a lot of people. I have to say it: philosophy seems boring because many teachers are very boring. Ancient philosophers divided philosophy between the analytical and the curative. There were no psychologists or psychiatrists  the doctors healed the body and philosophers healed the soul.

Q. What is the future for you now?

A. A possibility that has been given to me. I have had such dark days. I have been so scared that I live every day as a gift. Besides, I live in Seville and that is priceless. Its the best land in the world.

A heavy philosopher The philosopher David Pastor Vico, 46, doesnt seem like a philosopher. Not, at least, in accordance with the preconceived ideas that we tend to have about the profession. His bushy beard, leather jackets and black t-shirts (covered in writing) bring him closer to the urban culture that, he says, saved his physical and emotional skin during adolescence. Heavy stuff, he notes. Vico  who is a professor at Mexicos National Autonomous University  is the son of a humble Sevillian family that had to emigrate to Belgium. After studying philosophy, he dedicated himself to giving classes and lectures online and in auditoriums. However, cancer changed his path and he had to return to Spain for treatment. Now, hes published a book titled Etica para desconfiados [Ethics for the distrustful] and is working with local TV programs to promote philosophy. Any medium is useful, he says, to try to help people avoid suffering and understand the classics. Happiness, he explains, is another thing.

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The Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee (UK) is holding a meeting next Sunday, May 14 at 7pm to discuss a fighting programme for Royal Mail workers to defeat the brutal dictates of Royal Mail Group and its stooges in the Communication Workers Union (CWU) bureaucracy.

[Photo: WSWS]

CWU General Secretary Dave Ward and the postal executive declare there is no alternative to accepting such a ruthless pro-company deal. They are trying to intimidate RM workers by repeating the claims of CEO Simon Thompson that if workers reject the deal Royal Mail will go bankrupt.

The CWU bureaucracy accepts that Royal Mail shareholders profits are sacrosanct and that postal workers must pay the price through Amazon-style sweatshop conditions.

Sundays meeting will discuss what policies and program are needed to defend the interests of postal workers and launch a fightback. Royal Mail and the CWU have announced their strategy and plans -- it is time for postal workers to do the same.

Please spread the word and help ensure the widest attendance at next Sundays Zoom meeting across all areas of Royal Mail. Register for the meeting here.
According to research by the Museum of Homelessness charity, 1,313 people died while homeless across Britain in 2022. The last three years of reporting by the charity have shown a continuous year-on-year increase in deaths of this kind, with 1,286 fatalities recorded in 2021, 976 in 2020, and 710 in 2019, making an overall increase of 85 percent.

The Dying Homeless Project was established by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism in October 2017 and taken on by Museum of Homelessness in April 2019. It commented on the figures, More than 4,000 people have died while homeless across the UK since 2019, with someone now dying every 6.5 hours on average.

A homeless man sleeping in a shop doorway in Romford, London, December 2022 [Photo: WSWS]

The real number of deaths is likely to be higher as several local authorities did not respond to freedom of information (FoI) requests, including Ealing, Hackney Lewisham, Hillingdon, Blackpool, Fife and Birmingham. Birmingham, the UKs second largest city with a population approaching 1.2 million, told the charity that they do not collect information on how and when people are dying in homelessness settings.

Other local councils reported that they were not able to provide more detailed information relating to age or causes of death.

As well as FOI requests, details were gathered from members of the public, grassroots groups, coroners reports, homelessness charities and family members.

For the first time, the death figures include those living in exempt accommodation, which is usually shared and where some support is provided, but which is not currently regulated.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) also provides data on deaths of homeless people, however the methodologies are different. The Homelessness Museum survey covers the whole of the UK, and captures data from sources left out of official statistics gathering. Nonetheless, the ONS too found an increase in deaths, with their most recent estimate for 2021 significantly higher than in any of the years 2013-2017.

The homeless population is often understood to include those sleeping out on the streets, but in fact includes people in a number of settings. These include supported accommodation (13.8 percent), emergency accommodation (4.3 percent), bed and breakfast accommodation (4.4 percent), temporary accommodation (35.5 percent), rough sleepers accommodation (24.4 percent), and others (6.9 percent). The street homeless make up 10.6 percent of the total.

Homelessness deaths occur throughout the year, with a higher number actually occurring in the summer. This is contrary to the popular understanding that homeless people are more likely to die in the winter time and shows that the serious risk to life is in no way seasonal.

The causes of death were sampled from 314 people from the overall number of 1,313all of them living on the streets with no fixed abode. After physical health conditions, they are predominantly linked to drugs, alcohol and overdosing.

The study notes, Last year we reported on 31 people completing suicide; this has increased to 35 this year [to March 2023]. Five of these deaths were of people who were street homeless and had no fixed abode.

People who are homeless or sleeping out on the streets often struggle to access mental health support, and there are gaps in provision for what are some of the most vulnerable people in society.

The ages of 951 of the people who died were known, with people often perishing before they reach middle age. The most common group for age of death was 35-55. This figure is shocking when one considers that average life expectancy in the UK is 80.

Those who died in exempt accommodation are highlighted in this years report. This is accommodation not commissioned by local authorities, but which is used to house vulnerable people. Such housing is exempt from local licensing regulations and housing benefit caps, which mean the local council or police have few powers to act over the quality and safety of the dwelling.

The majority of local authorities responding to FOI requests for information on deaths in exempt accommodation said they did not have data. Of the total 151 deaths recorded across the twelve who provided data, Manchester had the highest number at 109.

Even the governments own report into exempt accommodation published last year via the Department for Levelling up and Communities was scathing in its criticisms. It described the system as a complete mess and in some instances involving the exploitation of vulnerable people, as unscrupulous providers make excessive profits by capitalising on loopholes. The gold-rush is all funded by taxpayers through housing benefit paid by tenants to landlords.

The inquiry found that some residents experiences of exempt accommodation are hellish and that some peoples situations actually deteriorate versus living on the streets as a result of the shocking conditions in which they live.

Homelessness Museum calls for mandatory fatality reviews for all local authorities, including accountability. Co-founder Matt Turtle said, The fact that so many people continue to die in unregulated, taxpayer funded accommodation run by rogue landlords is a disgrace.

In 2022 the government spent 1.6 billion putting people into this type of accommodation, mostly owned by private companies or individuals.

At root, homelessness deaths are the outcome of year of cuts to housing, mental and general health, drug, alcohol and allied services. Figures published by The Health Foundation show that the public health grant has been cut by 26 percent in real terms per person basis since 2015/16. Paid to local authorities from the Department of Health and Social Care budget, the grant is used to provide preventative services including drug alcohol services, smoking cessation, childrens health services and sexual health services.

The real terms per person cuts have been even greater to those living in some of the most deprived areas of England. The seaside town of Blackpool, considered to be the most deprived upper tier local authority in England, has seen its grant (including new drug and alcohol treatment funding) cut by 33 per person in real terms since 2015/16.

Poor health outcomes are strongly associated with living in areas of socio-economic deprivation. A girl born into one of the most deprived 10 percent of areas can expect to live in good health for 19 years less than a girl born into the least deprived 10 percent areasa factor that contributed to high COVID-19 mortality rates.

The deaths of thousands of homeless people is a chilling confirmation, amid an ongoing pandemic that has taken over 220,000 lives in Britain, that the ruling class views the lives of working-class people as entirely dispensable.
25 years ago: India tests nuclear bombs

On May 11, 1998, India detonated five nuclear devices as part of a nuclear arms race in south and east Asia, a region home to more than half the worlds population. The show of force was aimed both at intimidating Pakistan, against which India had fought several border wars, and at putting China, Indias regional rival, on notice.

The tests also had a domestic political purpose, demonstrating that the Hindu-chauvinist Bharatiya Janata Party (Indian People's Party), under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vijpayee, held the reins of power in Delhi.

Indian prime minister Vijpayee [Photo: Government of India]

Inconclusive elections the previous March had resulted in the coming to power of a ramshackle, 18-party coalition. The BJP dominated the new government, holding more than two-thirds of the coalitions parliamentary seats and all the key ministries. But until the nuclear tests, the governments agenda had publicly been set by the BJPs regional allies. They had repeatedly extracted concessions from the BJP by threatening to withdraw their support for the coalition.

Following the test, the Pakistani government signaled that it would soon test its own nuclear device. Pakistani Foreign Minister Gohard Ayub declared May 14, We would be in great difficulty without a nuclear test. Our policy has been for a balance of power with India.

China, which Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes had recently called a grave threat to Indian security, reacted angrily to the Indian tests. Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan urged all governments to press India to abandon its nuclear capability.

The US government conceded that it was caught completely unaware by the Indian nuclear tests, a gaffe US foreign policy analysts described as the worst intelligence blunder of the decade. A 1994 law, the Nuclear Proliferation Prevention Act, made it all but inevitable that Washington would impose wide-ranging sanctions against India. But the Clinton administration, which had been seeking a new strategic partnership with India, initially indicated that India could escape sanctions if it immediately agreed to sign an international treaty banning nuclear tests. Delhis response was to detonate two more nuclear devices.

The USthe only power to ever use nuclear weapons in combatheld a hypocritical stance on nuclear proliferation. Washingtons aim was not to eliminate nuclear weapons, but rather to maintain the status quo, under which the US had by far the worlds largest and most deadly arsenal. A constant of US foreign policy over the previous two decades was the use of the US military to project US power on the world stage and compensate for Americas loss of political and economic hegemony.

50 years ago: Former US Attorney General John N. Mitchell indicted

On May 10, 1973, two of Nixons former cabinet members were indicted by a federal grand jury on conspiracy charges related to an ongoing investigation into the criminal financier and Nixon backer Robert L. Vesco. Former Attorney General John N. Mitchell and former Secretary of Commerce Maurice H. Stans were accused of obstructing the investigation into an illegal donation of $200,000 by Vesco to President Nixons reelection campaign.

In announcing the charges, US Attorney Whitney North Seymour Jr, said the two were being charged with conspiring to defraud both the commissions investigation into Vescos activities and the General Accounting Office. This is a seriously sad day for those of us concerned with justice, the prosecutor added.

John Mitchell

In 1970 Vesco began operations to take over the mutual fund investment company Investors Overseas Service (IOS). The company held and invested money from members of the super wealthy elite in the United States and Europe.

Once at the head of the company, Vesco began embezzling money, at least $200 million, out of IOS and into his personal accounts in Costa Rica where he fled to in 1973. Vesco had bribed Costa Rican politicians with over $2 million to pass laws preventing his extradition to the United States.

But before departing the United States, in 1972 Vesco secretly sent $200,000 to the Committee to Re-elect the President. He made another contribution through President Nixons nephew Donald Nixon, who had worked for Vesco. The second payment was made with the explicit understanding that as Attorney General, Mitchell would intercede in the embezzlement investigation against Vesco.

The indictment was a further expansion of the crisis rocking the Nixon administration. While not directly connected to the Watergate break-in, the bribery scandal provided further evidence that the presidents reelection campaign organization, the Committee to Re-elect the President, was involved in numerous illegal activities.

Mitchell and Stans would maintain their denial of any wrongdoing in the Vesco case. In 1974 the charges against the two were eventually dropped. But the indictment of a former Attorney General of the currently sitting president proved to be an immense setback for Nixon still hoping to keep the scandals from rising to his office.

Later in May the US Senate subcommittee investigation into Watergate would officially begin with live broadcasts of witness testimony. In July Mitchell would be called before the Committee where he also attempted to deny any knowledge of the plot. In 1975 he would be convicted of charges of conspiracy and obstruction of justice related to the Watergate break-in. While initially sentenced to up to eight years, he would only serve 19 months.

75 years ago: Zionist leaders proclaim an Israeli state in Palestine

On May 14, 1948, Zionist leaders, headed by David Ben-Gurion, issued an Israeli Declaration of Independence declaring that a Jewish state would be established later that year amid the imminent withdrawal of Britain from its colonial rule over Palestine.

While the proclamation made a passing reference to respecting the rights of the Arab Muslims and Christians and other inhabitants of Palestine, it made clear that the state would be based on the Jewish religion and ethnicity, an extreme right-wing form of nationalism. This was in line with a resolution passed by the United Nations late the previous year, which had endorsed the ethno-religious partition of Palestine.

Ben-Gurion proclaims the state of Israel

The proclamation was immediately welcomed by the Democratic administration of President Harry Truman in the United States. Truman had led the push for an Israeli state at the UN and in other international forums, viewing it as a potential beachhead of American imperialism throughout the Middle East.

Just 11 minutes after the Israeli declaration, Truman issued a statement: This Government has been informed that a Jewish state has been proclaimed in Palestine, and recognition has been requested by the provisional government thereof. The United States recognizes the provisional government as the de facto authority of the new State of Israel.

The implications of the declaration were made plain by a debate among Zionist leaders prior to the announcement. Some had called for a recognition of the UN-proposed partition, without additional annexations.

But Ben-Gurion and others had rejected this line, with the future Israeli prime minister declaring during the discussion: We accepted the UN Resolution, but the Arabs did not. They are preparing to make war on us. If we defeat them and capture western Galilee or territory on both sides of the road to Jerusalem, these areas will become part of the state.

In the months preceding the declaration, far-right Zionist paramilitaries such as Irgun, together with the broader Haganah organisation, had overseen a program of ethnic cleansing. Under cover of combatting Arab insurgents, the heavily armed Zionist forces had repeatedly entered villages and cleared them of all or most Arab inhabitants, through mass executions and pogroms. The transparent aim was to secure Jewish majorities and Zionist control in as many key cities and towns as possible, prior to the partition.

The Israeli declaration and its immediate endorsement by the US and the other imperialist powers set the stage for the transformation of this war against the Palestinian population into a conflict between the nascent Israeli state and the regional Arab powers.

100 years ago: Soviet diplomat assassinated in Switzerland

On May 10, 1923, Vatslav Vorovsky, the Soviet representative to Italy, was assassinated in the restaurant of the Cecil Hotel in Lausanne, Switzerland by a Swiss-Russian former Tsarist and White Guard officer, Maurice Conradi.

Vorovsky and two other members of the Soviet delegation, Ivan Ariens and Maxim Divilkovsky, were observers at the Lausanne Conference, which was attempting to create a settlement in Turkey between the imperialist powers and the Turkish nationalist regime of Kemal Ataturk.

Vatslav Vorovsky

Conradi and an accomplice approached the table where the three were having dinner and fired a pistol, killing Vorovsky outright and wounding Ariens and Divilkovsky.

On May 20, over 250,000 mourners attended Vorovskys funeral in Moscow.

Vorovsky was an old Bolshevik who had joined the Russian socialist movement in 1894. He was arrested by the Tsarist secret police in 1897 and imprisoned in Orlov. Upon his release in 1902, he emigrated to western Europe, where he assisted with the distribution of the Social-Democratic newspaper, Iskra. In 1903 he supported the Bolshevik faction of the Russian Social Democratic Labor Party led by Lenin.

He participated in the first Russian revolution of 1905 and after its defeat, in underground work from 1907 to 1912, when he was arrested again and exiled to Vologda province. He participated as a leading party member in the 1917 Russian Revolution and was a member of the Russian delegation to the founding of the Communist International in 1919 and later a member of the Executive Committee of the Communist International. He served as a Soviet diplomat in Sweden and in negotiations with Poland.

The murder trial of Conradi became a cause celebre throughout the world known as the Conradi affair. The Soviet Republic was effectively put on trial and subjected to anti-communist misrepresentation and slander. Conradi was acquitted.
Last Wednesday, the city of Chicago released the body camera footage of the deadly police shooting of 24-year-old black worker Reginald Clay, Jr. The killing took place on April 15 in the West Garfield Park neighborhood.

Police bodycam video shows Chicago Police Officers Fernando Ruiz and Gabriel Bikoma exiting a vehicle outside an apartment building as Clay, facing away from the car, walks away and towards the buildings backyard. Officer Ruiz begins running towards Clay, who then runs away into the yard. It is a feature of the bodycam system that footage does not have any audio for the first several minutes, including the time Ruiz first encountered Clay.

Ruiz runs after Clay as he moves to the back of the building and into a dead-end gangway, his gun drawn before Clay turned around to face him. Clays hand can be seen near his waistband before he pulls out a handgun with his right hand. He then switches the gun to his left hand and moves to set it down on a nearby ledge, evidently attempting to surrender.

Then Ruiz shoots Clay five times. Clay falls to the ground with massive wounds, and raised his hands again when Bikoma approached him with gun drawn. At this point the audio on the footage cuts on. Bystanders can be heard screaming and demanding to know why police shot and killed Clay. One man said they were all attending a funeral.

Clay, who worked at Amazon, leaves behind a 3-year-old daughter as well as his parents, cousins, and other family. The family has filed a federal lawsuit against the Chicago Police Department which claims, There were no facts to make anyone believe that he was committing a crime or breaking any laws. It alleges the police used unprovoked and unwarranted force and violated the departments foot-chase policy.

Reginald Clay [Photo: Facebook]

The foot-chase policy was updated after police gunned down 13-year-old Adam Toledo in 2021, limiting police to pursuit on foot only when there is a valid need to detain someone posing an immediate threat.

The Chicago Police Department has given no answers to family or media as to why Clay was approached and then chased, except to note that there had been a recent shooting in the area. The news media reports the patrol itself was part of a de-escalation mission. Ruiz, who joined CPD in 2017, was placed on routine administrative duties for 30 days.

Protests led by the Clay family have taken place in recent days, including one downtown on Saturday, and his father, Reginald Clay Sr., has called for mayor-elect Brandon Johnson to get involved.

No statement on the murder has been issued by either Johnson, lame duck Mayor Lori Lightfoot or any of the city council members affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America. The release of the body camera footage comes as Johnson prepares to take office on May 15. The mayoral election campaign was dominated by a public safety narrative with all candidates, including Johnson, pledging to bolster the police force.



During Johnsons campaign when meeting with youth organizations and progressive community groups, when asked his position on police funding, he would often respond by commenting that he plans to provide more resources for youth programs and mental health services. However, these comments would almost always be followed up shortly after with reassurances to the right-wing business organizations that he in fact plans to hire more cops and will not reduce the CPD budget by one penny.

CPD initially claimed Clay had a gun in his hand when he was approached. Now that the video is released, the official account has changed. Police claim that Clay did not follow verbal direction and that he assaulted an officer. With no audio until immediately after the shooting, it is impossible to determine what, if anything was said to Clay, and the video shows no evidence of an assault or battery against any officer.

Clays killing is one of 254 US police killings so far in 2023. On average the police kill over 1,000 people every year.

The police operate as an occupying force in working class and poor neighborhoods, and the Chicago police have a long record of illegal detention and brutal violence against residents.

In 2015, an article in The Guardian revealed that CPD operated an illegal black site in the Homan Square neighborhood, near the area where Clay was shot to death, where people were detained, interrogated, and tortured with no access to legal representation. At least one man detained there was killed.

More than 7,000 people were reportedly held secretly and subjected to police abuse at the site, though local defense attorneys have made clear that such police practices are common throughout the city, not just at the Homan Square location.

This police killing of Clay is not unlike many others that have occurred this year. According to mappingpoliceviolence.org police have killed 14 more people through the month of February this year compared to the same period in 2022.

On May 3, Johnson announced that once in office he will name former police chief Fred Waller as interim police superintendent, as a replacement for former superintendent David Brown. Waller is a former Chicago cop who retired from the force in 2020 as third in command. The 61-year-old is a self-proclaimed beat cop at heart and has said that he does not intend to take up the position of superintendent permanently, but that he will serve as interim superintendent until a permanent candidate is found.

As for Browns permanent replacement, Johnson has stated he would like to choose an insider who will help raise the morale of CPD officers after many have retired or otherwise left the department in recent years. Waller has said his goal as interim superintendent is to help Chicago police feel more support, something he believes they have not received enough of from past administrations. In other words, Waller will continue his record of protecting Chicago police from any kind of scrutiny or consequences as they continue to terrorize the population.

Waller was named chief of patrol in 2016, the CPDs third-highest ranking position, following several years overseeing patrol districts on the South Side with some of the highest levels of violent crime and police shootings. In a July 2018 press conference, Waller claimed that Harith Augustus, who had been shot and killed by police in the South Shore neighborhood, had a bulge near his waistband and became combative, directly contradicting witnesses on the scene.

Waller reassured Chicagos police that Johnsons administration would be taking no measures to prevent or punish their criminal actions. Referring to the George Floyd protests, where tens of thousands of people in Chicago protested police violence, he said, When the civil unrest came, you still have to support those officers and show them that, if you make a mistake, youre not gonna be thrown out with the trash. They have to feel that support. With this administration, they will, Waller said.
Last week, news emerged that NATO intends to open a liaison office in Tokyo, Japan next year. The office would be NATOs first in the Asia-Pacific region and represents the increasing role of the organisation in preparation for a US-led war against China. Both Tokyo and NATO have confirmed the plans.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, left, and Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida after media briefing in Tokyo on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023. [AP Photo/Takashi Aoyama]

Nikkei Asia reported on May 3 that NATOs Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg discussed opening the office with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during Stoltenbergs visit to Japan in January. Similar offices exist at the United Nations in New York and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe in Vienna, as well as in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kuwait. Tokyo also intends to create an independent mission to NATO by separating its current mission from its embassy in Belgium and dispatching a new ambassador.

While the move does not mean Japan is joining the alliance, the new NATO office in Tokyo is a major provocation directed at China. The US/NATO war against Russia in Ukraine was instigated, in part, through the encroachment of NATOs borders towards Russia. NATOs collaboration with countries like Japan, coupled with attempts to goad Beijing by challenging the One China policy over Taiwan, will only heighten the danger of war.

The Danish ambassador to Japan, Peter Taksoe-Jensen, who acts as the contact point between Tokyo and NATO, made clear that the decision to open the liaison office was directed against China and preventing it from becoming an economic challenger to the West.

He told Nikkei Asia, In 2022, at the (NATO) Madrid Summit, allied leaders decided that Russia was no longer a partner but a foe, and that there was also an acknowledgement that China's rise would and could have an impact on trans-European security.

Beijings Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Mao Ning criticised the plans for the new liaison office in Tokyo, saying, NATOs continual eastward expansion in the Asia-Pacific, interference in regional affairs, attempts to destroy regional peace and stability, and push for bloc confrontation calls for high vigilance from countries in the region.

NATO and Japan also intend to sign an Individually Tailored Partnership Program (ITPP) ahead of the July 11 and 12 NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. Japan, as well as South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand is expected to attend the summit. The liaison office will facilitate increased cooperation between NATO and these four countries, dubbed the Asia-Pacific partners of NATO, or AP4. The meeting last year in Madrid was the first time the four nations had been invited to attend a NATO summit.

As part of their collaboration, Japan and NATO will also work together to address cyber threats, disruptive technologies, and disinformation activities. In other words, the two will work on ensuring that the internet and social media are employed to spread imperialist propaganda while blocking workers and youth from accessing so-called disinformation, including socialist, anti-imperialist and anti-war viewpoints.

The opening of the office is part of a broader agenda in which the US is developing and integrating a series of alliances meant to surround China. These include the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprised of the US, Australia, India, and Japan, and the AUKUS alliance, made up of Australia, the United Kingdom and the US. Washington and Seoul also recently announced increased collaboration over the planning and use of Washingtons nuclear arsenal.

In addition, under pressure from Washington, Tokyo and Seoul have worked to ease tensions that have existed between the two countries for years. Following a summit in Tokyo in March between Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, the two sides agreed to increased cooperation, normalisation of a military intelligence-sharing agreement and more military drills alongside the US.

Japan is also increasing its cooperation with other countries, including the UK. Tokyo signed a Reciprocal Access Agreement with London in January granting troops from each country easier access to enter the other. Tokyo is considering a similar agreement with the Philippines.

The opening of the NATO office in Japan also contributes to Tokyos goal of remilitarisation. In 2014, the then-Shinzo Abe administration announced a reinterpretation of the constitution to allow so-called collective self-defense. The following year, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) rammed legislation through parliament to codify this change. This, Tokyo argues, allows Japan to go to war alongside an ally in the name of self-defense, thereby sidestepping Article 9 of the constitution, which explicitly bars Japan from maintaining a military or waging war.

By working alongside NATO, Tokyo will claim that its growing military assertiveness and aggression aligns with this bogus and unconstitutional concept of collective self-defense.

Along these lines, a NATO delegation visited Japan from April 24-26, led by its Cooperative Security Division Director Lieutenant General Francesco Diella, who met with leading Japanese military officials. Diella claimed during these discussions, Our security is deeply interconnected and so must be our cooperation, which is rooted in our shared values, and our shared visionof a free, peaceful and prosperous world.

The claims that NATO and its member countries as well as Japan represent shared values is aimed against Russia and China. Washington, Tokyo and their allies claim that in Asia, China represents a threat to the free and open Indo-Pacific. In reality, the imperialist powers denounce Beijing for not acquiescing to the post-World War II order established and dominated by the US. While Washington conducts provocative and dangerous freedom of navigation operations on Chinas doorstep, any reaction from Beijing is denounced as proof of Chinese aggression.

Furthermore, the claims that NATO and, above all, the United States represent democratic values fly in the face of reality. In the US, immigrants are denied the right to asylum while police regularly gun down workers and the poor. In France, the president of the rich, Emmanuel Macron, rules using police state repression against striking workers and protesters. In the UK, journalist Julian Assange remains behind bars in Belmarsh Prison for exposing the crimes of US imperialism while the government wasted hundreds of millions of pounds on King Charless recent coronation ceremony.

In Japan, past war crimes are covered up in order to promote remilitarisation. The ruling LDP, with no genuine opposition from other parties, is pursuing constitutional amendments that would severely restrict democratic rights, and journalists face barriers and even harassment.

Ultimately, Washington, Tokyo, and NATOs goal is not defense of democratic values, but the redivision of the Indo-Pacific at the expense of China, risking a new world war that would be fought with nuclear weapons.
We want to hear from you. If you have information about a school outbreak, or are ready to get involved in our fight for safe schools, contact the WSWS now! Fill out the form at the end of this article, or write to educators@wsws.org. We will protect your anonymity.



For the closure of Marcus Garvey Academy until a safe return can be ensured! For full transparency to educators and parents!

The Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is reopening Marcus Garvey Academy today amid a cluster of what is being referred to as mysterious flu-like illnesses that have left dozens sickened, three hospitalized and one kindergarten student dead. Nearby day care center, Focus: HOPE, which has also experienced a mass outbreak of illness is also reopening today.

The kindergartner who died, Jimari Williams, was just six years old. The cause of death for Jimari is still unknown. One can only imagine the depths of shock and grief this death has caused the parents, family, friends of Jimari and the broader community. Under these tragic and disturbing circumstances, DPSCD and the Detroit Health Department have responded with utter callousness.

Jimari Aiden Williams April 24, 2017  April 26, 2023 [Photo: James H. Cole funeral home]

Consider the timeline of events:

The cluster of illnesses reportedly began sometime in mid April. Six-year-old Jimari, a student of Marcus Garvey Academy, died in the hospital on Wednesday, April 26. Despite the hospitalization and death of this student, and the other illnesses, the Detroit Health Department was not notified of the cluster until Monday, May 1. School cleaning began that day. The school was not closed until Wednesday, May 3.

On May 4, Focus: HOPE publicly claimed that their outbreak was Hand, Foot and Mouth disease, though the Detroit Health Department never confirmed this.



On May 5, at a poorly advertised DPSCD virtual meeting for parents and educators at Garvey, it was revealed that the school system had not identified the majority of the illnesses; there would be no mask mandate in the school; and that no systematic testing was taking place. In fact, only two of the cases had been confirmed as Haemophilus influenzae, a broad name for any illness caused by bacteria called H. influenzae, which can be extremely serious.

A number of critical points must be made regarding the nature of this crisis and the response of DPSCD and the Detroit Health Department.

First, it is a staggering if unsurprising fact that the word COVID-19 does not appear in either the statement of the Detroit Health Department, the statement from DPSCD, or virtually any news report on the situation. During the virtual meeting on May 5, COVID-19 was only mentioned once, in the context of explaining to a parent why they would not be mandating masks at the school.

COVID-19, the disease which has claimed the lives of more than 1.1 million people in the US, including more than 2,200 children, has been virtually eliminated from the lexicon of the political establishment.

The absence of the word COVID is no mistake or oversight. It is a political calculation. To admit that this cluster of illnesses could be an outbreak of COVID-19 or related to COVID-19 would require the admission that COVID-19 does in fact remain a real threat to the lives of millions of workers and children. It would be an admission that President Bidens decision to end the public health emergency which has been in place since the start of the pandemic, and dismantle the few health protections that were left in place, has nothing to do with public health and everything to do with protecting private profit.

Regardless of whether or not this cluster of illnesses turns out to be COVID-19, the actions of DPSCD and the Detroit Health Department demonstrates to workers, parents and students the complete disregard of school district officials for the safety of students and educators and their right to the latest information.

Secondly, the few token measures taken by the district to address this crisis are entirely inadequate to ensure a safe return to school. At the virtual DPSCD meeting, Alycia Merriweather, the Deputy Superintendent External Partnerships, Enrollment & Specialty Programming for DPSCD, spent the majority of the meeting rereading the same powerpoint slide, merely showing that the building has been cleaned. At no point did Merriweather address the possibility that the illnesses could be transmitted through the air, as is the case with COVID-19, in which case the cleaning efforts, while probably much needed, would not aid in the protection of students and educators.

The district also announced that they are providing a preventive medication for those who meet special qualifications. When Merriweather was asked about the mystery preventive medication at the virtual meeting, she responded that she was not sure what it is, saying, from my understanding it is an antibiotic.

Moreover, when asked directly by a parent whether or not the illness or illnesses have been identified and confirmed, she booted the question to a colleague who stumbled over her answer:

First of all, kids are ill. As Merriwether said earlier, children get ill and cant come to school or get sick at school all the time. This illness or illnesses that we are seeing we are not attributing to anything specific. All we know is that we have had some cases of H. influenza.

Another parent then asked: What virus are you trying to eradicate in the school? What cleaning solutions are you using? Again the DPSCD response was that they do not know what they are even attempting to eradicate with their unspecified cleaning solutions.

The attitude of DPSCD towards students, parents and educators amounts to a collective shrug: Nevermind the fact that a six-year-old child has died and we dont know why. We are sending kids back to school and whatever happens, happens.

There is a mountain of outstanding questions on the minds of all parents and educators, the most obvious of which remains: What killed Jimari Williams? Remarkably, Williams death was not mentioned by any DPSCD member during the virtual meeting. Parents in attendance at the meeting were permitted to ask questions only through the chat function. A DPCSD member then selected which questions to ask the officials on the call.

In one disturbing exchange, the DPSCD member selecting questions began reading one that inquired about Williams death. One moderator cut her off nervously exclaiming, That is a media question  this is not a media meeting. A student died, very likely from the same illness sweeping through the school and DPSCDs official attitude is: Its not our problem.

No grief counseling or memorial has been organized by DPSCD in the wake of this tragic death, instead they are doing everything they can to sweep it under the rug.

One parent asked, Why did it take so long for schools to close? Merriweather and others had no meaningful response outside of reiterating the timeline of events.

Another parent, no doubt expressing widespread sentiment, asked: Will virtual learning be an option? This conversation does not make me feel comfortable sending my kid back to school. Unsurprisingly, virtual learning is not offered.

When one parent asked if sick kids were being evaluated for other illnesses, presumably in addition to H. influenza, the district representatives replied vaguely: Sick kids are being evaluated by other providers, saying that it was up to the discretion of whatever physician the child visited. In other words, there is no systematic testing being done on sick children. How DPSCD or the Detroit Health Department is planning on discovering the source of the illness, without systematic testing, is left to the imagination.

Multiple parents asked why masks will not be required at the school. It was at this point that COVID-19 was finally mentioned, and only to say that since COVID-19 protocols were no longer in place, the district policy is that masks are only optional.

Amid the vague communications from the Health Department and DPSCD, and the obvious political maneuvering, one thing is clear: Marcus Garvey Academy and the Hope day care center are not safe to reopen. Parents and educators who are rightly outraged over the response of DPCSD in particular must understand that the real allies in the fight to keep themselves and their children safe are the educators, other parents and the broader working class.

The Detroit teachers union that claims to represent Marcus Garvey Academy teachers has remained totally silent on this crisis. DPCSD has proven time and time again that their alliances ultimately lie with the Democratic Party political establishment.

Critical demands must be raised urgently to ensure the safety of children, teachers, other school staff and their families. First, there must be full transparency of all information related to this crisis shared immediately with parents and educators. Systematic testing must be put in place for all students, educators and those with whom they have been in contact, in order to determine the cause of the illnesses. No return to school should take place until the illness has been eradicated and the proper measures put in place to make the school safe for all.

Moreover, the crisis in Detroit must be understood not as an isolated event but as part of the ongoing global fight against COVID-19 and for a policy of defending life rather than profits. COVID-19 is not over. According to Data Tracker, 2,032 children ages 017 have died from COVID-19, 57 of whom were added in January 2023 alone. Moreover, among children, the CDC has found that those previously infected with COVID-19 were at higher risk of a number of serious and potentially life-threatening conditions affecting the lungs, heart, veins and kidneys. Additionally, over 9,300 children have been afflicted with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a serious condition associated with COVID-19.

The political establishment is even less prepared than it was before the outbreak of the pandemic to deal with any serious illness.

If order to protect the lives of educators, students and the broader community, there must be a fight organized independently of the trade unions and both political parties.

This fight is already well under way in the Detroit area, led by independent rank-and-file committees established among educators, autoworkers, and other sections of the working class. If you have any information or comment on the outbreaks of illness in Detroit or other areas, we urge you to contact us immediately. We urge all those who wish to get involved to contact the WSWS Educators Newsletter and get involved in the fight to save lives!
In recent weeks, a series of dangerous fires have taken place at Dana Inc.s parts plant in Warren, Michigan. The first of two fires took place on Monday April 3, 2023, and the Warren Fire Department was dispatched at 11:51 a.m., according to a report obtained by the World Socialist Web Site. Firefighters noted that smoke was visible from Van Dyke and 9 Mile Rd, over two miles south of the facility.

Dana Incorporated World Headquarters in Maumee, Ohio [Photo: WSWS]

One worker told the WSWS, Flames were high and there was a lot of smoke, but nobody could hear the fire alarm. The worker also stated, all the exit doors were locked, though this could not be confirmed. Many workers were still evacuating as the fire trucks arrivedsix minutes after the call for help was made.

It took the firefighters some time to gain access to the building and determine the location of the fire. They entered through Door 12 on the south side of the building and found the fire in a furnace/ HVAC unit on the ceiling near the Trans Van Line toward the middle of the 500,000 square foot facility. Firefighters noted, a large amount of smoke and very high ceilings with smoke banked down 10-15 feet from the ceiling. Smoke was brown and light gray in color.

Firefighters were on scene for nearly two hours. A scissor lift was used to gain closer access to the ceiling. It was attempted to open roof louvers, but they did not stay open, so ultimately firefighters accessed the roof, and a hole was cut through the roof for ventilation. The offending HVAC unit was overhauled with water to extinguish all spots.

Many workers on first shift were sent home early as the fire suppression coincided with the final hours of their shift, but workers on second and third shifts had to report to work for business as usual with no communication from the company or the UAW.

A second fire took place at the plant just sixteen days later when a trash hopper caught fire. The sprinkler system extinguished the fire before the Fire Department arrived.

A Dana Warren worker told the WSWS, They are testing fire alarms, but nobody could hear them at all. They said in our meeting recently that they are working on the fire alarm system and drills, but its BS, and I havent heard the UAW say anything. They had a union meeting on April 30 and said nothing about the fires. Another worker added, The company and the union are one-sided. The union is just for show, if the company wants to do something, they will make it happen.

The significance of the two fires should not be overblown, but the circumstances immediately around the fires and the response on the part of the company and the union should be fully understood by the rank-and-file.

That the fire broke out in an HVAC unit points to insufficient building maintenance. The report from the Warren Fire Department documents that the rooftop louvers were not functioning properly and states that the item first ignited in the April 3 fire was dust.

Rooftop HVAC units are not only important for maintaining a temperate environment, but also for air quality in general. Proper ventilation is an essential aspect of preventing air contaminants associated with manufacturing processes. A building of that size is likely to have several rooftop units.

Ventilation is particularly important in the midst of a COVID-19 pandemic that continues to claim the lives of at least 200 people nationwide each week.

The other concern relating to the April 3 fire is the lack of an audible alarm and free means of egress from the building. One worker explained on Facebook how they learned of the fire, no alarm, just people running!

When the confused workers finally did make it out of the building, they were met by firefighters ready to enter, but not knowing where to go. The fire report states, Multiple other employees were asked where was the fire no direct answer was given.

Workers who spoke to the WSWS did not know any details of the April 19 fire and the incident report from the Warren Fire Department offers few details. The ignition of a trash hopper suggests that there may have been welding or some other type of hot work that was not adequately controlled.

In any event, the occurrence of two fires within three weeks points to major safety concerns. While no workers were injured in either incident, the situation could have been far worse. Perhaps even more alarming than the fires themselves is the complacent response of both the company and the UAW.

The company is more concerned with blaming workers for bad parts or trash and other items found in parts bins than they are about providing a safe work environment with adequate breaks and meal time. For Dana there is no room to discuss the profit-sharing checks that are owed to workers when they have the unforeseen expenses of maintaining the HVAC units and alarm system or paying a so-called containment company to sort through parts before they are shipped to customers

For its part, the UAW has shown its contempt for the rank-and-file by remaining silent. The local leadership does not even bother to raise a question about any of the circumstances around either of the fires.

A fighting organization of rank-and-file workers would conduct an investigation into the cause of the fires. They would oversee the inspection and improvement of all HVAC units and ensure they are maintained in clean efficient condition. Fire watches would be established around all hot work processes and exits maintained free from obstructions. Responsibilities would be delegated for communication with first responders in the event of an emergency. That is the aim of the Dana Workers Rank-and-File Committee.

We urge workers at the Warren Dana plant to contact the WSWS for assistance in forming a rank-and-file committee to advance that fight and link up their struggles with workers in other Dana plants and throughout the auto industry. Text or call 248-602-0936 to join and learn more.
The Graduate Employees Organization leadership, in conjunction with the GEOs parent union, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), has de facto ended the month-long strike by University of Michigan (U-M) graduate student instructors (GSIs), which began on March 29.

While GEO officials claim the strike is officially continuing through the spring-summer semester, they have shut down picketing and announced that GSIs employed by the university to teach classes over the next several months will carry out their work assignments. They will be working without a contract, the previous agreement having ended on May 1.

GSIs involved in the strike have been left in a precarious position by the AFT bureaucracy and its local GEO agents. Already unable to survive on their poverty wage of $24,000 a year, they were docked a months pay by the university for striking during April.

University of Michigan graduate students on strike, March 29, 2023. [Photo: WSWS]

Moreover, they face the threat of being disciplined and even fired by the university, which has obtained a preliminary ruling from a state magistrate upholding its claim that the strike is illegal and in violation of a no-strike clause in the expired contract. The Michigan Employment Relations Commission (MERC) is set to meet on May 8 and could approve the preliminary ruling.

As the GEO strike unfolded at U-M, academic strikes broke out at Rutgers University in New Jersey and at three campuses in the Chicago region, as academic workers rose up against decaying conditions shared by university staff and students. The AFT deliberately kept these struggles separate from one another and isolated each of the strikes, with no opposition from the GEO at U-M. The AFT proceeded to call off the strikes in New Jersey and Illinois in order to ram through sellout contracts that met none of the workers demands. The union bureaucracy called off the strike by 9,000 academic workers at Rutgers without having even reached a tentative agreement with the administration.

In addition to the GEO, the AFT is the parent union of the Lecturers Employee Organization (LEO) at U-M and is the official bargaining agent for two groups of health workers at U-Ms hospital and health care system based in Ann Arbor. The GEO leadership never called for solidarity strike action by the other AFT locals on the campus, nor did it call for other sections of workers in Michigan and beyond to mobilize against the universitys strike-breaking actions and refusal to discuss the GSIs demand for a living wage.

The AFT, with the tacit support of the GEO leadership, has worked to starve out the strikers, refusing to provide strike pay. According to the most recent AFT filing with the Labor Department, the union has net assets of $55 million and its president, Randi Weingarten, received a salary of $426,000.

The U-M strike and the broader academic strike wave in the US are part of a resurgence of class struggle internationally. This is being fueled by the massive diversion of funds for the US-led war against Russia in Ukraine and preparations for conflict with China, paid for through cuts in social programs and attacks on workers jobs and wages. In every capitalist country, the ruling class is turning to police-state methods to suppress rising popular opposition and encouraging the rise of fascistic forces. Meanwhile, countless billions are being allocated to bail out failing banks and cover the losses of rich depositors.

In line with these measures is the complete abandonment of mitigation measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 and other deadly diseases.

The union bureaucracy has been integrated into the corporate structure and functions as an arm of the capitalist state against the working class, primarily through the Democratic Party. The GEO, controlled by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a faction of the Democratic Party and the union bureaucracy, has intentionally concealed the fact that behind the university stands the Democratic Party-controlled U-M Board of Regents and the Democratic administration of Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

In a Twitter post, the GEO announced that on May 3, GEO Vice President Ember McCoy, along with other grad student union officials across the US, participated in a meeting with Bernie Sanders. That left-talking fraud has devoted his political career to attempting to provide a left cover to the Democratic Party as it conducted one war after another, adopted Trumps COVID-19 herd immunity policy of mass infection and implemented a policy of austerity for workers and bank bailouts and record profits for the corporations.

The isolation and de facto liquidation of the strike cannot be attributed to a lack of support for the grad workers among faculty, students and staff at the university. Most students are appalled at the arrogance and indifference of the university and its million-dollar-a-year president Santa Ono to the desperate plight of grad students, who are forced to live on the edge of destitution. They are appreciative of the long hours the GSIs put in and their dedication to their students.

During U-Ms graduation commencement ceremony on April 29 a plane towing a banner with the phrase Congrats! So proud! Love from striking GSIs garnered loud cheers from the crowd of graduating seniors.

Hundreds of faculty members signed a protest letter denouncing the universitys strike-breaking tactics and many others pledged to withhold grades in solidarity with the strikers. Masters students stopped grading exams when they learned U-M was using them as scabs against the GSIs.

Most recently, on May 1, over a dozen faculty members from U-Ms political science department signed an open letter to the university leadership defending the academic freedom of those refusing to turn in grades and supporting the strike, noting the increase in housing and childcare costs in the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti over the last decade.

The IYSSE reached out to the signers of these open letters and received statements from faculty members supporting the strike and the withholding of grades.

Dr. George Hoffman, professor of French language and literature, described the deterioration of conditions in academic work, contrasting present graduate worker conditions to those he faced decades ago:

I calculated the graduate stipend I received in 1982 into todays dollars: once I saw that our GSIs are earning several thousand dollars less than I did forty years ago, all the while facing far more uncertain employment outcomes, as well as responding to increased demands to become a multi-modal, digitally informed, public-facing scholar, I knew something was wrong with the Universitys stance.

Dr. Terri Friedline, associate professor of social work, echoing her colleagues, argued that graduate students should be adequately compensated for their labor and earn wages that match the cost of living in Ann Arbor. She emphasized the importance of the striking students social demands and concerns, including transgender health care and a community-led, non-police, unarmed emergency response. She added that [W]ere also in an era generally of rising fascism and White supremacy, when threats of discipline and punishment make acts of solidarity extremely important.

Dr. Kristen Harrison, a professor and media psychologist, gave the following comment:

Like most faculty, I have loyalties to all of my students, both undergraduate and graduate, so this has been hard. Yesterday I was explaining the strike to my three teenagers and found myself relying on popular culture as usual: Follow the money and see where it goes. My kid replied, The emperor has no clothes? My other kid said, No, the grad students have no clothes. They cant afford them. From the mouths of babes.

Dr. Ashley Lucas, professor of theater and drama at U-Ms Residential College and member of both the Prison Creative Arts Project and the Carceral State Project, described the hypocrisy of the university:

The University of Michigan prides itself on being one of the premier public research universities in the world, yet during its negotiations with GEO, it has consistently withheld a living wage for its graduate students.

She continued:

When these students entered into a labor strike because the university had stalled meaningful negotiations for months, university administration resorted very quickly to union-busting tactics, including taking their students to court, having the campus police detain nonviolent student protestors at an off-campus location where university police have no jurisdiction, and docking the pay of all graduate workers who refused to file the attestation of labor statements that the university demanded they fill out, whether the graduate students had been striking or not.

Pointing out the vast financial resources of U-M, which include its more than $17 billion endowment, Dr. Lucas added,

The University of Michigan has both the power and the money to end this strike at any time by offering a fair contract with a living wage for all graduate students on all three of its campuses.
This is the third and final article in a series on films from the San Francisco International Film Festival (April 13-23) that were made available to the WSWS online. The first was posted April 18, and the second on April 28.

Irish-Scottish filmmaker Mark Cousins (The Eyes of Orson Welles) has turned his attention to the seizure of power in Rome by Benito Mussolini and his Blackshirt fascists in October 1922. The documentary, The March on Rome, includes much intriguing imagery and points toward certain historical truths. Overall, however, the film is confused and, in the end, quite wrong-headed.

Mussolini (second from left) inspects Blackshirts before the March on Rome

Cousins opens his film with the February 2016 incident in which Donald Trump retweeted a phrase widely associated with the Italian dictator, It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep, and subsequently defended his action.

The association of Trump (and later, Bolsonaro, Le Pen, Meloni, Modi, Orban, Germanys AfD, etc.) with Mussolini and fascism is appropriate and necessary, but since this is accompanied by serious errors or omissions of critical facts, the value of the connection is largely lost, or its genuine significance obscured.

Cousins makes much of Umberto Paradisis A Noi! (To Us!, 1922), an official National Fascist Party propaganda film, which purports to document Mussolinis March on Rome. Cousins takes interesting pains to point out the distortions and deceptions in Paradisis work. A Noi!, for example, claims that one of its scenes of fascist marchers occurred on October 28-29. The new documentary points out that it was probably shot on October 30-31, because it poured on the previous days and rain-soaked, muddy figures were not considered heroic enough. The march, explains Cousins in his narration, had to be golden, Virgilian  anointed, elevated, rigorous.

The director usefully points out the tricks performed by Paradisi to make the pro-fascist crowds at the time much larger than they were, to help build the legend of an Italy unified behind Mussolinis forces.

However, The March on Rome strikes a sour note very early on when it has the misguidedness (and elementary lack of knowledge) to suggest that Paradisis A Noi!, as Cousins similarly has asserted in a written comment, was early in the history of propaganda cinemabefore Sergei Eisensteins Battleship Potemkin, and Leni Riefenstahls Triumph of the Will.

Eisensteins film enthrallingly and movingly portrays a critical episode in the 1905 Revolution when sailors aboard the Imperial Russian Navys Potemkin mutinied against rotten food, brutal treatment and tsarist tyranny as a whole. It is consistently listed as one of the greatest films ever made (including by Charlie Chaplin and Billy Wilder), and its essential content is historically accurate, although Eisenstein dramatized the various episodes.

Mussolini in The March on Rome

Riefenstahls work is a piece of pro-Nazi propaganda, filmed at the 1934 Nazi Party Congress and commissioned by Hitler. It is a cinematic lie from beginning to end, aimed at chloroforming critical thought and whipping up enthusiasm for the fascist demagogues and butchers. A Noi! is not much better. What is Cousins thinking?

Later in his film, Cousins attempts to link Lenin, along with Hitler and Mussolini, to the anti-working class, reactionary French author Gustave Le Bon and his work The Crowd: A Study of the Popular Mind. Again, what is Cousins up to? It is difficult to take the film seriously from this point onward.

By the time Cousins concludes his film with images of Russian president Vladimir Putin intended to convey the idea that he is one of Mussolinis spiritual heirs and of the Ukrainian city of Mariupol after devastation in the ongoing war (but no images of the US-organized destruction of Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria, Yemen, etc.), his outlook is no longer much of a mystery. He belongs to the loose fraternity of middle-class moralizers who can be counted upon to back US and NATO human rights imperialism.

It doesnt help matters that Cousins invents a fictional character, played by actress Alba Rohrwacher, as a kind of middle-class conscience. The fictional figure begins by enthusing about the Blackshirts, before gradually growing skeptical and eventually hostile. That he chooses such a character, easily caught up by the clumsy, vicious fascist manipulations, as typical of the Italian population is revealing.

Along the way, there is certain valuable material in The March on Rome. The film points out that Mussolini wasnt even on the famous October 1922 march. He was in Milan, waiting to see if the coup attempt would succeed. If it hadnt, he was prepared to slip across the border into Switzerland.

Cousins takes note of the conspiracies between the fascists, important sections of the Italian ruling elite and King Victor Emmanuel III, which resulted in Mussolinis being named prime minister by the latter on October 30, 1922, without a shot being fired. This inaugurated a brutal dictatorship that lasted 23 years. As Peter Schwarz explained on the WSWS last year, The fascists suppressed democratic rights, terrorized and crushed the organized labour movement, waged horrific colonial wars, allied with Hitlers Germany for World War II and sent 9,000 Jews to the gas chambers.

September 1920armed workers occupy a factory in Milan

The documentary recounts portions of the history of Italian fascist violence, both at home and abroad. It dwells in some detail on the Italian invasion of Ethiopia in 1935, which resulted in 200,000 Ethiopian dead. Italian fascist pacification in Ethiopia, like future efforts by the French in Algeria and the US in Vietnam, meant mass killings, torture, the burning of villages.

Cousins spends too much time on Mussolinis masculine, muscular, anti-feminine imagery. That element, along with the empty monumentalism of the fascist art, flowed from the deeply dishonest, thuggish attempt to manufacture and enforce a mythical national unitybehind the great leader, Il Ducein a country torn by class divisions and with a long history of socialist-led workers struggles. It was an appeal to the backward, conservative petty bourgeoisie, even as the fascist regime proceeded to strangle that layer within the vise of the bourgeois state (Leon Trotsky, What Next? Vital Questions for the German Proletariat, 1932).

A fatal weakness of The March on Rome is its failure to place the October 1922 events in their historical and social framework. Cousins makes only a fleeting reference to World War I and no mention at all of the wave of militant strikes that erupted in postwar Italy, culminating in the mass occupations of factories and shipyards in 1920. The years 1919-20 are known as the Biennio Rosso (Two Red Years) in tribute to the revolutionary upsurge.

In Italy, as Trotsky explained, by the end of 1920, The dictatorship of the proletariat was an actual fact; all that was lacking was to organize it and draw from it all the necessary conclusions. Tragically, a partylike the Bolsheviks in Russia in 1917capable of drawing those conclusions and organizing the taking of power by the workers was lacking.

As Peter Schwarz commented last year, True, the leadership of the Socialist Party was in the hands of the Maximalists under Giacinto Serrati, who had opposed World War I and joined the Communist International. But the Maximalists commitment to workers power was purely platonic. They refused to break with the reformists, who provided the labour minister at the time and dominated the unions, and had no strategy or tactics for conquering state power. Eventually, the unions managed to stall the strike with the help of some empty concessions.  Now fascism went on the offensive.

Cousins is no doubt sincere in his desire to expose far right politics, but he is not equipped to take on a subject like the rise of Italian fascism.

Milisuthando

Its troubling when a filmmaker names a film after herself, as South African-born Milisuthando Bongela has done with Milisuthando. One fears the worst.

In fact, the film proves to be a little more objective and wide-ranging than its title would suggest. But still

We learn from the publicists that Johannesburg, South Africa-based Milisuthando Bongela began her career in the fashion industry before branching off into music, media, art, and film and that Milisuthando marks her feature documentary directing debut.

Milisuthando

The films primary interest lies in Bongelas biography. She was born in Transkei, one of the fraudulent independent Bantustans set up by the racist South African government for designated ethnic groups. Transkei was established in 1976. As the WSWS has explained, The white supremacist government, through these self-governing enclaves, sought the further subdivision of the working class along ethnic lines. The Bantustans were unstable entities knocked together from non-contiguous patches of poor land with little infrastructure. They were recognised only by the South African government, on which they depended for up to 80 percent of their budgets. They disappeared in 1994, with the end of the apartheid regime.

Bongela addresses the peculiarity of her upbringing: The street I grew up on  was in a country that no longer exists. There were, in fact, no whites in my tiny world. Her family was relatively well-off, and she was one of the black students, with the fall of apartheid, who integrated a previously all-white school.

There is some interesting footage of South Africa in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Bongela muses about her past, its contradictions. She has white female friends in the present, and they attempt to work through some of the legacy of sadness and suffering.

Bongela seems sincere and not entirely self-involved, but much of the film rambles here and there, without a clear direction. It has a section devoted to the cult of Nelson Mandela that seems critical of the late president, or at least his most slavish admirers.

Is there a wider significance to Bongelas history? What is the historical and social balance-sheet, not simply for Bongela and her friends, but for South Africas working class population as a whole?

The film points to various dilemmas, but it is short of important conclusions. It is easier to have feelings and intuitions, and injured feelings, than definite and substantive ideas.

The Tuba Thieves

The Tuba Thieves, directed by visual artist Alison ODaniel, who is hard of hearing, sets out to consider sounds and/or their absence. ODaniel was intrigued by the theft of tubas from a series of Southern California high schools in 2011-2013.

Unfortunately, as ODaniel makes clear, the actual episode was not of interest to her. The films publicity emphasizes, The Tuba Thieves is not about thieves or missing tubas. Instead, it asks what it means to listen. A film about the instruments and the impact of their absence on hard-pressed music programs would have been more interesting than the final product.

The Tuba Thieves

In a series of vignettes, the film brings together, in the words of Filmmaker magazine, significant moments in musical history that have challenged what it means to listen, experience tones and melodies. The Tuba Thieves, for example, recreates the 1952 premiere of John Cages seminal composition 433 at the Maverick Concert Hall in Woodstock, New York, a piece involving four minutes and 33 seconds of performers not playing their instruments. There is also reference to Princes free 1984 concert at Gallaudet University, an institution for the deaf and hard of hearing.

A couple of characters are woven in to the other bits and pieces, a pregnant, deaf woman and the drum major of one of the bands now without a tuba.

All in all, The Tuba Thieves too rambles aimlessly, hoping apparently that it will stumble by accident on important truths about sound, music and listening. Genuine insight does not emerge by accident.

Concluded
Smoke rises from buildings in this aerial view of Bakhmut, in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, Wednesday, April 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Libkos) [AP Photo]

As the death toll surges in the Ukraine war, the United States is demanding a renewed military offensive by Kiev. The American ruling class is determined to fight to the last Ukrainian.

To date, the NATO powers have sent over $150 billion in weapons and other aid to Ukraine, equal to three-quarters of Ukraines pre-war GDP. After earlier declaring they would not provide offensive equipment, the NATO powers have flooded the country with hundreds of tanks and armored vehicles, as well as the most advanced missile systems in NATOs arsenal.

Now, the imperialist powers are demanding that this weaponry be put to use in the hands of newly conscripted Ukrainian troops, many of them grabbed off the street, to be thrown at heavily fortified Russian positions. The US and NATO have precluded any negotiated settlement of the war, declaring that negotiation can only take place once their war aims are achieved.

The only certain outcome of the much hyped counteroffensive will be a further massive loss of life, Ukrainian and Russian.

The death toll is already staggering. In November, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that 100,000 Ukrainian military personnel have died to date. With hundreds of troops dying every day, the real death toll among Ukrainians is likely in excess of 200,000.

With Ukrainian troops attempting to shift to the offensive, this death toll will only swell, with casualties among attacking Ukrainian troops vastly outnumbering those of the Russian forces on the defensive.

The Zelensky government is taking increasingly repressive measures as it dragoons tens of thousands of young men to their deaths. All anti-NATO political parties are banned in Ukraine, and any dissent from Kievs pro-war line is sharply punished. These actions have been covered up by the US media, which lyingly proclaims that the Zelensky government is fighting for democracy.

Reports published Sunday in the New York Times and Washington Post testify to the extent to which Washington is pressuring its client state in Kiev to launch the planned offensive.

Ukraine is feeling immense short-term pressures from its Western backers, as the United States and its allies treat the counteroffensive as a critical test of whether the weapons, training and ammunition they have rushed to the country in recent months can translate into significant gains, declared the Times.

Commenting on the plans for the offensive, the Post wrote, The buildup ahead of the assaultthe details of which remain secrethas left Ukrainian officials grappling with a difficult question: What outcome will be enough to impress the West, especially Washington?

Here, the relationship of forces driving the offensive is stated plainly. Washington, that is, American imperialism, is directing the offensive. It is demanding an adequate return on its investment. How many Ukrainian youth will die to impress the West, especially Washington?

The Biden administration, with its approval ratings plummeting, and with the war increasingly unpopular, is seeking to use what it can call a breakthrough in the Ukraine war to mobilize its political base in the affluent upper-middle class ahead of the upcoming presidential election.

This social layer has been whipped into a pro-war frenzy, fueled by hysterical anti-Russian hatred. But having whipped up this militaristic hysteria, what will be the response of the United States to a potential failure of the offensive?

In interviews with both the Times and the Post, Ukrainian officials sought to warn that the planned offensive, however bloody, would not lead to a decisive success.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksi Reznikov told the Post, The expectation from our counteroffensive campaign is overestimated in the world. He added that most people are waiting for something huge, which he feared might lead to emotional disappointment.

Reznikov raised the prospect that success could be as little as the capture of ten kilometers.

In an interview with the Guardian, Czech President Petr Pavel warned that for the US and NATO, It might be a temptation to push them, for some, to demonstrate some results. Pavel stated, It will be extremely harmful to Ukraine if this counteroffensive fails, because they will not have another chance, at least not this year.

The Biden administration has staked its entire credibility on the war. The prospect that the offensive will not have the desired outcome, or even fail completely, only intensifies pressure for direct NATO intervention.

The war fever gripping the US political establishment was exemplified by the cover story in The Atlantic by Anne Applebaum, headlined The Counteroffensive.

Applebaum demands the total liberation of Ukraine, calling for Ukraine to reconquer all of the territory lost since February 2022 as well as the Crimean Peninsula. In the plans for this offensive, Applebaum declares that Americas position in Europe, indeed Americas position in the world are all at stake.

It is becoming increasingly clear that the sweeping goals of the United States cannot be achieved outside of a massive escalation of US-NATO involvement in the war.

This is the only explanation for last weeks drone attack on the Kremlin and attempted assassination of Putin, a reckless provocation whose aim was to provoke retaliation by Russia.

After the drone strike, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked, What is the United States position on such attacks on leadership during this war by Ukraine?

In response, Blinken explicitly sanctioned the legitimacy of assassinations, declaring, We leave it to Ukraine to decide how its going to defend itself.

These statements testify to the enormous recklessness that prevails in the White House. In endorsing the potential assassination of the Russian president, who controls the worlds second largest nuclear arsenal, the Biden administration is playing with the lives of not just Ukrainians and Russians, but the whole world.

The United States, proclaiming this the decisive decade for securing US geopolitical domination, is preparing for global war on a scale that will make the vast body count in Ukraine look like a down payment.

Unless they are stopped, the imperialists are preparing to repeat the horrors of the First and Second World Wars, but on an even greater and deadlier scale.

Stopping the war plans of the imperialists requires the conscious political intervention of the working class. Throughout the world, from Sri Lanka to France and the United States, workers are entering into struggle against governments that are declaring workers living standards must be slashed to pay for rearmament. These struggles must be unified on the basis of the perspective of international socialism, taking up as a central demand the struggle to end the war in Ukraine.
The Tafi, a community dating from the Formative Period (the American archeological equivalent of the Neolithic period), populated the Andean area that links Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia for nearly a millennium, until the year 800 A.D. At more than 1,800 meters above sea level, among peaks, jungles, and forests, they built interconnected villages, in which no one house stood taller than the others. The archaeological remains left behind by the culture show no evidence of class distinctions, no palaces, no residences for those responsible for religious ceremonies, or centers for the accumulation of wealth. Neither are there any fortifications or military devices, so it is feasible to assume the Tafi never engaged in conflicts or wars. In a historical period in which incipient agricultural production produced hierarchical systems based on power and wealth, the Tafi constitute a very stable society that for hundreds of years successfully perpetuated an economic and social model of equality, says Ignasi Grau, professor of archaeology at the University of Alicante (UA).

Aerial view of an excavation of a Tafi household. Universidad de Alicante

This is not an unusual model, says the expert. It is an issue of study, he says. Since we tend to focus more on hierarchical societies, we look for the outstanding, the exceptional and wealth, but selfishness is not a law and it is as normal to find equality as inequality. Grau stresses that archaeology tends to study societies in which there are selfish people, with the will to appropriate production and its surplus, a system that was born in the Neolithic. But at that same time there were other trajectories, such as that of the Tafi, in which collaborative behaviors and wealth distribution functioned. While in other environments some families begin to control the food surplus and the development of technology, and the chiefdoms, kings or priestly castes emerge,  a period that is considered the seed of the capitalist economy  the Tafi developed their economy without visible hierarchies. In that respect, it is a civilization like that of Teotihuacan in Mexico, a city without leaders, larger than imperial Rome, with two huge pyramids dedicated to the Moon and the Sun, but structured in a cooperative way.

A team of archaeologists from the UA, the National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CSIC) and several other Argentinean scientific and academic institutions traveled to the Cienaga Valley in Tucuman (Argentina) to study the Tafi in a program funded by the Spanish Ministry of Culture, which began in 2021. In the field, they will map the villages of this Andean civilization and excavate some of its dwellings, which took the form of a common central circle around which there were as many rooms as the number of family members living there required. Like other Neolithic cultures, Grau points out, the Tafi developed a complex agricultural system, in their case based on the production of corn or potatoes and the exploitation of llamas or guanacos. It was a society that traded with other nearby cultures to exchange their products, which included cebil, a psychotropic plant that they used for their rituals. They lived without the need for fortifications, defensive structures or walls.

A wall sconce made of jungle ceramic. Universidad de Alicante

In addition to the structure of their homes, researchers have detected more signs of equality in the artifacts left behind by the Tafi. Each village has a ceremonial mound, like the one at La Cienaga, which was probably built as a cooperative effort among all the citizens and where rituals, community social practices or festivities were celebrated. A relationship of family cohesion, of union, was established in which they performed work for the whole village, such as cleaning irrigation ditches, for example, says Grau. In this way, the system helped people feel there was no need to appropriate common assets.

Another of the aspects the researchers will investigate is the possibility that this equality also took gender into account. The Tafi gave great importance to their homes, which is the feminine environment par excellence, says Grau, so they could have given the same importance to those who rule them, women, who are also responsible for the production of handicrafts, which generates wealth. Likewise, they will attempt to establish whether the ancestors they worshiped were men or women. When you live in an egalitarian mold, the model works both in social and interpersonal relationships, so that, in Graus opinion, it is likely that the figure of the woman was recognized.

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Nine people were killed and seven wounded in a mass shooting Saturday at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, just north of Dallas. This was the 200th mass shooting in the US so far this year, averaging about 11 such events per week.

According to ABC News, multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the shooting at 3:30 p.m. The gunman was killed in the parking lot by a police officer who was at the mall on an unrelated call. Officials said the ages of the victims ranged from 5 to 61.

People raise their hands as they leave a shopping center following reports of a shooting, Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas. [AP Photo/LM Otero]

According to an Allen Police Department news release on Sunday, four people were undergoing treatment at Medical City McKinney Hospital, with three in critical condition. Another person is undergoing treatment at Medical City Plano, one at Medical City Childrens Hospital, and another at a hospital not named in the release.

The suspected shooter has been identified as Mauricio Garcia, 33, a security guard. Garcia reportedly used an AR-15 rifle in the shooting and had at least one other weapon on him when he was fatally shot. More weapons were found in his car.

Witnesses said the gunmans tactical vest was packed with ammunition. According CBS News reporter J.D. Miles, Garcia, who was living in an extended-stay hotel in Dallas, had no serious criminal record.

Dashcam video circulating on social media shows the shooter leaving a grey sedan outside of Allen Premium Outlets mall and immediately proceeding to open fire on mall-goers. People ran from the shooter and some fled in their cars under fire.

One boy and his mother told CNN they fled in their car and were hit twice by gunfire. A witness speaking to the Washington Post described a young boy running away from the shooter while screaming run! At least one victim was a child, according to officials and witnesses. Another young boy was found under the corpse of his mother, who died shielding him.

It is not clear if there was a security guard on duty at the mall, though an individual with a security uniform was among the dead.

The Post reports that according to people familiar with the investigation, the shooter had an apparent fascination with white supremacist or neo-Nazi beliefs that are now being examined by investigators as a possible motive for the attack.

According to the Posts sources, the shooter had a patch on his tactical vest that read RWDS, which stands for Right Wing Death Squad. An RWDS patch was worn by Proud Boy Jeremy Bertino at Trumps Stop the Steal rallies in the lead-up to the January 6 coup. The shooting is reportedly being investigated as a possible hate crime.

As of this writing, the reports linking Garcia to neofascist tendencies have not been confirmed by the local police or federal authorities. Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey told the press that the police believe the gunman acted alone.

The shooting comes just days after a mass shooting in an Atlanta, Georgia hospital by a Coast Guard veteran, injuring four and killing one, and just over a week after five people were killed, including an eight-year-old boy, in a mass shooting of a family by a neighbor in a rural town north of Houston, Texas. These mass casualty events were preceded by mass shootings in Alabama and Kentucky.

According to the Gun Violence Archive (GVA), 14,675 shooting deaths have been recorded so far this year, rapidly approaching the total number for all of 2018. Last year there were 20,200 deaths and 647 mass shootings. This was topped only by 2021, which had the highest number of shootings and deaths since the GVA began keeping track in 2014, when there were 272 mass shootings.

The American media and political establishment is incapable of providing any serious explanation for this epidemic of gun violence because it is an expression of a social breakdown of staggering dimensions, rooted in a toxic and insoluble crisis of American capitalism.
Around 8:30 a.m. Sunday morning a man driving a silver Land Rover sport utility vehicle at a high rate of speed appeared to deliberately drive into a crowd of immigrants, including children, waiting at a bus stop in Brownsville, Texas. As of this writing, eight people have been confirmed killed, and at least 10 were injured.

Emergency personnel take away a damaged vehicle after a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, Sunday, May 7, 2023. Several migrants were killed after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter. [AP Photo/Michael Gonzalez]

Video taken from a security camera at the Ozanam Center, the only migrant and homeless shelter in Brownsville, shows roughly 20 people sitting on the curb outside the shelter waiting for a bus to arrive. Suddenly a silver Land Rover comes flying into frame and mounts the curb, in the process striking and killing several people, while also sending dozens of bodies flying through the air.



Speaking to local NBC affiliate Valley Central, Luis Herrera, one of the victims of Sundays deadly crash, said he and his friends were waiting at the bus stop for a ride to the airport. It happened unexpectedly, he recalled, because a woman in a car passed by and advised us to separate and moments later the killer was coming in the car gesturing and insulting us.



In an interview with the Washington Post, Herrera said that driver was taunting people standing at the bus stop prior to the attack.



He crossed the street, and he hit the gas and he drove by my legs, and hurt my arm, Herrera told the Post in Spanish. The others, he killed almost all of them.



Herrera told the paper he remembered the driver yelling: Youre invading my property!



Another survivor of the crash, Jesus, a Venezuela immigrant who has been at the shelter for the last three days, told Valley Central, We were waiting there, and the truck sped through the traffic light, and by the grace of God nothing happened to us, but they did hit the others around us.



Seemingly confirming it was a targeted attack, another witness speaking to the New York Times, Michael Eduardo de Aponte Fonseca, a Venezuelan migrant, said the driver yelled anti-immigrant insults to the group while he fled.



I saw what happened around me, and I didnt want to see more, Fonseca told the paper. I grabbed my things ... scared and in shock, I crossed the street.



While multiple witnesses have stated it appeared to be a targeted attack, Brownsville police Officer Martin Sandoval told news outlets Sunday that it is unknown at this time if the crash was intentional, accidental or due to driver impairment. Sandoval said the driver is Hispanic and a resident of Brownsville and that he is being uncooperative.



Hes being very uncooperative at the hospital, but he will be transported to our city jail as soon as he gets released, Sandoval said. Then well fingerprint him and [take a] mug shot, and then we can find his true identity.



According to NewsNation reporter Ali Bradley, witnesses at the scene of the crash detained the driver until police arrived.



As of this writing the driver has been arrested on one count of reckless driving.



Victor Maldonado, shelter director at Ozanam Center, told the Associated Press that prior to the crash the center had not received any threats, but they have subsequent to the mass casualty event.



Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, Maldonado said.



In an interview with the Washington Post, Osvaldo Prieto, a worker at the shelter, confirmed that the driver ran them over, all of them. Like Maldonado, Prieto told the Post he had not been aware of any threats against the shelter prior to the crash. However, he added, Its not a secret that this is a place where migrants are being welcomed.



Brownsville is located in the Rio Grande Valley, opposite Matamoros, Mexico, and is the center of US Border Patrol operations. Speaking from the border town this past Friday, some 48 hours before the deadly crash, US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, surrounded by Customs and Border Patrol agents, gave a press conference preceding the lifting of Title 42 restrictions and the imposition of new anti-immigrant measures.



Mayorkas issued threats to prospective migrants. He boasted, We have a plan, we are executing on that plan, I have come to McAllen (Texas) and Brownsville to see firsthand that plan in action. He warned potential migrants and asylum seekers: We will deliver consequences to those who arrive at [the] southern border irregularly.



Mayorkas added that the border is not open, it has not been open and it will not be open. Like former President Donald Trump, who has pledged if he becomes president again to expand the border agencies in order to carry out the largest deportation operation in history, Mayorkas hailed the various immigrant and border police as extraordinary.



While it is unclear at this time if the crash was intentional, Biden and the Democratic Party have worked with the Republicans in demonizing immigrants and playing up a manufactured border crisis. This has contributed to the poisoning of the political atmosphere, particularly in Texas, as seen in the mall massacre in Allen, a suburb of Dallas, the previous day.



The attacks on immigrants are an attack on the democratic rights of the entire working class, which has no country. They are being used by both capitalist parties to justify an expansion of the federal border police as well as additional anti-democratic measures which will be used against the entire working class.
Are you a Teamster member working in the TV and film production industry? Send in your statement of support for the writers strike by filling out the form below. All submissions will be published anonymously.

Writers on the picket line outside of Fox Studios in Los Angeles [Photo: WSWS]

Eight days before the start of the strike by 11,000 members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA), a general membership meeting of Teamster Local 399 took place. The local covers workers employed at TV and movie studios being struck by the WGA on the West Coast. At that meeting, which brought together some 850 Teamsters and other workers, top union bureaucrats feigned support for the writers while instructing Teamsters not to join the picket lines in their upcoming strike.

Teamsters Motion Picture Division Director and Local 399 Principal Officer Lindsay Dougherty addressed the workers and declared: We stand with the writers in their pursuit of a strong and fair contract. Should the employers be unable to address the writers concerns, and they do go on strike, Teamsters will continue to be in solidarity. Teamsters dont cross picket lines. Its not in our DNA, and it is a protected right in our contracts.

In reality, Local 399 members have been instructed by the bureaucracy not to join the writers pickets. In fact, Dougherty has even sent word out that Teamsters in the TV and movie industries are not even allowed to join picket lines during their off time.

A six-page question and answer sheet from Local 399, issued shortly before the strike broke out, makes this crystal clear. In answer to the question: If the WGA goes on strike, can I join them on the picket line to support? Local 399 answers: No. [Bold in original] Whether you are working or not, our members cannot join the picket line, carry a picket sign or banner, distribute literature for WGA at the picket line, or walk near any picket line. [Emphasis added]

Local 399 members cannot strike or picket any of the companies in the [Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers] while our agreements with the AMPTP are in place.

The reason the Teamsters gives for this is the no-strike pledge which the bureaucracy bargained into the contract, which reads:

The Union agrees during the existence of this Agreement, unless the Producer fails to comply with an arbitration award, not to strike against, picket or boycott the Producer for any reason whatsoever, and to order its members to perform their obligations to the Producer hereunder and to use its best efforts to get the employees to perform such obligations.

This anti-strike clause has become a staple of American labor contracts in the last few decades as the labor bureaucracy began enforcing one sellout after another. It not only is an attack on Teamster members right to support the writers in their fight against the production companies, but it sabotages their own ability to fight as well. No militant leadership, much less one which represents the interests of the rank and file, would agree to such a clause.

The next question asks: If I have work scheduled for Tuesday morning, and the WGA calls a strike, what should I do? The bureaucracys answer: Should a strike get called early Tuesday morning, and you are scheduled to work on Tuesday, you should report to work as normal.

Workers are only allowed to honor the picket in cases where they actually encounter a physical picket line on their way to work. If not, the Q and A states: you are expected to report to work.

This release does not apply to Teamsters who work from home, as made explicit in the Local 399 sheet. Since there are no WGA lines to cross remotely, they cannot show their solidarity in any form and must continue to work.

No doubt, there is immense support from rank-and-file Teamster members for the writers, and virtually all have refused to cross the picket lines. But the purpose of the Teamster bureaucracys policy is designed to contain and limit this sentiment for a common struggle with the writers as much as possible and to diffuse a collective fight by the rank and file. Meanwhile, the apparatus gives itself the space and the optics to pose as militants leading the Teamster members in support of other workers struggles, when in fact they are doing the opposite.

For Dougherty, and the entire Teamster apparatus, solidarity with the WGA strikers amounts to speeches meant for public consumption.

This is a warning not only to Teamsters in the television and movie industry but also to the 340,000 rank-and-file members at UPS. Since taking office in early 2022, Teamsters President Sean OBrien has presented himself as a break with the rampant corruption and sellouts of his predecessor, James R. Hoffa. With critical assistance from the Teamsters for a Democratic Union (TDU), a reform faction which has helped to whitewash OBriens record, he has posed as a militant, making speeches pledging to strike the logistics giant if there is no deal in place when the current contract expires on July 31.

A UPS driver in front of Paramount Studios during the WGA strike, May 3, 2023. [Photo: WSWS]

But Dougherty, who is rumored to be the heir apparent to Fred Zuckerman for the number two position in the entire International Brotherhood of Teamsters, shows what the real policy of the bureaucracy is. There can be no doubt that the bureaucracy is working overtime to work out a sellout deal at UPS and get it rammed past the membership well in advance of July 31.

This is in keeping with its role in sabotaging the struggle of railroaders, about half of whom are Teamster members, last year. It kept railroaders on the job for critical weeks after they rejected a pro-company contract brokered by the Biden administration, buying Congress critical time until after the mid-term elections to ban a strike and impose the same deal. OBrien and the entire Teamster bureaucracy were acting essentially as extensions of the White Houses campaign to block a strike, and OBrien himself personally visited the White House seven times last year. Similar White House meetings are undoubtedly taking place this year to block a strike at UPS.

Doughertys doubletalk on the WGA strike is further proof that the rank and file must prepare themselves for a fight, not only against management but against the union bureaucracy. Real solidarity is impossible if it is being led by officials who are in the pockets of management and the corporate-controlled parties. Instead, workers must organize themselves independently into rank-and-file committees, as a means of establishing lines of contact with writers and other sections of the working class and prepare mutual support and common actions, free from bureaucratic sabotage.
An alliance of Sri Lankan trade unions and other organisations held a May Day rally at Sirisena playground in central Colombo last week. Addressing the event, union leaders called for broader unity between all the unions which, they claimed, would increase political pressure on the Wickremesinghe government to end its austerity measures and attacks on democratic rights.

Trade union officials on May Day platform in Colombo, Sri Lanka. [Photo: WSWS]

Similar illusions were peddled during the limited strikes and protests held on March 1 and 15, with half a million workers participating on each occasion. President Wickremesinghe, however, has made clear that he will not change any of the IMF-dictated austerity measures, declaring them necessary to resolve the economic crisis facing Sri Lankan capitalism.

A total of 14 unions were involved in last weeks rally. This included the Free Trade Zones and General Services Employees Union (FTZGSEU), Ceylon Teachers Union (CTU), Federation of Health Professionals (FHP), Commercial and Industrial Workers Union (CMU), Ceylon Bank Employees Union, Post and Telecommunication Officers Union, and the All-Telecom Employees Trade Unions. Various non-government organisations, such as the Dabindu Collective, Womens Centre, Revolutionary Existence for Human Development (RED) movement, National Fisheries Solidarity Movement, the Peasant Movement, Plantation Movement for Peoples Land Rights and the National Union for Transgenders were also involved.

While the unions convening last weeks May Day rally represent over 100,000 workers across various sectors, only 1,500 or so people attended. This indicates both the growing distrust and hostility of broad layers of the working class to the union apparatus, as well as its determination to block any mass mobilisation.

FTZGSEU General Secretary Anton Marcus told the rally that apparel workers had suffered the loss of 150,000 jobs following the closure of 40 factories and another 73,000 due to the shutdown of numerous small factories during COVID-19. He failed to explain, however, how his union responded to this brutal job destruction. In fact, workers have faced ongoing job losses since the pandemic began in 2020, as well as the deepening of the Sri Lankas financial crisis following the outbreak of the ongoing US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine.

Rather than defend jobs, the FTZGSEU and other unions supported the governments lifting of COVID-19 measures, sending workers back into their factories and workplaces lacking minimum safety measures and reduced wages. Last September, when Esquel Company announced it was closing several factories, Marcus directed workers to accept so-called voluntary retirements with meagre compensation.

Attempting to justify the small attendance at the May Day rally, Marcus declared that there had been many struggles against the Wickremesinghe governments Anti-Terrorism Bill (ATB), the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and for abolition of increased Pay As You Earn income taxes, and for lower prices of essentials.

Those involved in those struggles should be here today but they have joined the May Day celebrations of other political parties, he said, referring the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party.

However much we fought, we have failed to stop the governments program, Marcus said, admitting to the futile character of the unions. He insisted, however, that trade union unity was needed to apply more pressure.

This was echoed by CTU General Secretary Joseph Stalin. Why should all trade unions unite? he asked rhetorically, then replying, because Wickremesinghe considers his main enemy to be working people and the trade unions and the union leaders terrorists. This was a reference to the governments planned ATB, which considers industrial action by workers to be terrorism and those calling such actions as terrorists.

Notwithstanding Wickremesinghes rhetoric, his regime is entirely dependent on the unions to contain and dissipate workers demands, limiting them to isolated one-day actions and futile protests. The derailment of workers struggles by the trade unions is being used by Wickremesinghe to step up his drive towards dictatorial forms of rule.

The CTU and the JVP-controlled Teacher Services Trade Union have played a key role in this process. In 2021, they betrayed the 100-day strike for higher wages by over 250,000 teachers and principals and signed an agreement for a one third of teachers original pay demand.

Addressing the rally, FHP leader Ravi Kumudesh cynically blamed workers for installing Wickremesinghe as president following last years AprilJuly mass uprising that brought down former President Rajapakse and his government. We must blame ourselves because we have appointed a representative who rules in the interests of international agents and because we just stand aside and idly observe, he declared.

Kumudeshs false claims are typical of the union bureaucracy. The trade unions, backed by pseudo-left parties such as the Frontline Socialist Party, diverted the mass movement behind SJB and JVP demands for an interim capitalist government under Rajapakse. Thus, they blocked the development of an independent movement of the working class against the Rajapakse regime and Sri Lankan capitalism and the necessary struggle for a workers and peasants government based on socialist policies.

If someone like Wickremesinghe is re-elected in any future election, Kumudesh continued, then we must teach him how to rule with the masses or otherwise we must elect a person who knows how to rule. In other words, the union bureaucracy is wanting greater collaboration with future governments and will maintain its role in subordinating the working class to their needs.

Speakers at the rally, including those from the fake left parties and organisations, were totally silent about the mass strikes and protests in France and the US-NATO war against Russia in Ukraine. Instead, they blamed Sri Lankas unprecedented economic crisis on the corruption of past and present rulers, obscuring the fact that the islands financial predicament is part of the global crisis of capitalism.

[Photo: WSWS]

Socialist Equality Party (SEP) reporters spoke to some of the workers attending the rally.

A teacher from Ragama, about 20 km from Colombo, voiced her dissatisfaction over the betrayals of the unions and noted: This is an international working-class day, that is why we must join this sort of event. I trust socialism but Im not attached to any trade union or any political party. I am ready for any struggle, that is why I bought a book, she said referring to the Sinhala-language of Why study the Russian revolution? that she purchased from the SEPs literature table.

A mother of two children from the Negombo fishing community about 40 km from Colombo said: We came to the workers day today. We are fighting for fishermens rights because were suffering and our children have no future. My husband and I must work very hard just to survive and pay for our daily expenses. Having participated in the mass uprising against the Rajapakse regime, she added, We still continue the struggle that started last year.

The union bureaucracys calls for unity of all trade unions and its bankrupt calls for workers to exert more pressure on the government and employers, is being advanced in the face of rising popular anger against the Wickremesinghe regime and deepening working-class distrust of the unions.

Workers can only defend their rights by building their own independent organisations of political and industrial struggle. That is why the SEP is urging workers to form their own action committees in workplaces, plantations and major economic centres, as well as in rural committees, independent of the trade unions and all the capitalist parties.

The defence of the democratic and social rights of the working class and the rural masses involves a political struggle against the Wickremesinghe regime and the capitalism system. This is the reality facing the working class in every country.

The SEP has advanced a political perspective and program to take forward this fight. We are calling for the building of a Democratic and Socialist Congress of Workers and Rural Masses based on delegates from those action committees to fight for a workers and peasants government to implement socialist policies and address all unresolved democratic tasks.
After his swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 1, Brazils Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva walked up the ramp to the presidential palace arm in arm with Indigenous leader Raoni Metuktire, instantly recognizable by his yellow headdress and wooden lip plate.

But a major railway that would accelerate deforestation in Metuktires ancestral land risks souring relations between the leftist leader and the chief of the Kayapo people. And its just one of several mega-projects that activists and experts say would devastate the natural world  and seriously dent Lulas newfound image as a defender of the environment  if they proceed.

Others include an oil drilling project near the mouth of the Amazon River; a highway that would slice through some of the Amazon rainforests most protected areas; and renewal of a giant hydroelectric dams license.

Lula is talking about the environment, showing preoccupation with illegal mining, demarcating Indigenous territories. Hes already learned a lot, but needs to learn more. Were still very worried, said Alessandra Korap, an Indigenous leader of the Munduruku people who recently won the Goldman Environmental Prize for work that included battling illegal mining.

Under Lulas predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, deforestation soared to a 15-year high and environmental restrictions were weakened. The far-right leader filled key positions in environmental agencies with agribusiness allies and military officers. Indigenous peoples rights were trampled.

After narrowly defeating Bolsonaro in last years election, Lula has strived to put environmental protection and respect for Indigenous peoples rights at the heart of his third term. He resumed successful pursuit of international donations for the Amazon Fund that combats deforestation, launched a military campaign to eject illegal miners from Yanomami territory, committed to ending all illegal deforestation by 2030 and restarted the demarcation of Indigenous areas.

But Lula faces difficult tests in the large infrastructure projects. While opponents regard them as catastrophic, some in Lulas Workers Party continue to view them as essential for providing jobs and promoting growth. And Brazil, a developing nation, has heavy demand for socioeconomic benefits.

The oil-drilling project

Ibama, Brazils environmental agency, will decide in coming months whether to license drilling in one sector near the mouth of the Amazon. Approval would surely lead to drilling in the whole region, said Suely Araujo, a former Ibama head now a public policy specialist with the Climate Observatory, a network of non-profits.

Its a matter of coherence. Lulas speeches on environmental protection and the climate crisis are bang on point. But if oil exploration is intensified, it will mean expanding fossil fuels. There would be an inconsistency, Araujo said.

During Lulas first terms, huge offshore discoveries became a means of financing health, education and social welfare programs.

To a large extent, this vision remains, meaning it will be very difficult to persuade the government to give up strategic projects, even when there are significant social environmental risks, said Maiara Folly, director of CIPO, a think tank focused on climate and international relations.

With existing production set to peak in coming years, theres sharp interest in securing more off Brazils northern coast. Its a unique and biodiverse location, home to little-studied swathes of mangroves and a coral reef.

Araujo said the project risks leaks that would be carried elsewhere by strong tides.

State-run oil giant Petrobras has earmarked almost half its five-year, $6 billion exploration budget for the area. CEO Jean Paul Prates said the first well would be temporary, and that the company has never recorded a leak in offshore drilling.

Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira said in March that the area is the passport to the future for development in Brazils northern regions. Lula has used the same term to describe the earlier offshore oil discoveries.

Eighty civil society and environmental organizations, WWF Brasil and Greenpeace, have called for the license to be declined pending an in-depth study.

The hydroelectric dam

The Belo Monte hydroelectric dam, a concrete colossus on the Xingu River, was planned under Lula and built by his successor, Dilma Rousseff. Supporters saw it as a way to generate jobs and add power to Brazils grid.

Indigenous populations and environmental campaigners fiercely opposed it, and studies show its impacts have been disastrous. Civil society organizations estimate tens of thousands of people were displaced, and experts attribute a local surge of violence to lost jobs. One area of concern is the Xingus Volta Grande, or Big Bend, which has lost much of its water. That caused the disappearance of fish  the basis of many Indigenous populations subsistence.

Belo Monte is back on Lulas agenda, with Ibama weighing whether to renew its license. The agency reported last summer that Norte Energia, the dams owner, hadnt respected many of the conditions for its original license.

Local media said Norte Energia proposed to distribute 20,000 reais (about $4,000) in compensation to nearly 2,000 fishermen.

In January, researchers in the region published a letter to environmental journalism website Sumauma calling on Lula and his administration to investigate and punish crimes and injustices surrounding the dam.

Any government really committed to conserving the Amazon and fighting the climate crisis is obliged to recognize the problems caused by Belo Monte and to fix the damage and impacts caused, the letter said.

Local populations are demanding the license be renewed only if Norte Energia agrees to use the water in a way that allows life in and around the river to be sustained.

The license was originally issued under heavy pressure from Rousseffs government, said Folly. In a March interview with Sumauma, Lulas environment minister, Marina Silva, promised that this time, nobody is going to be coerced, as they were before, and this represents a total change.

The highway

The BR-319 highway connects Porto Velho to Manaus. It was abandoned in the 1980s after falling into disuse, but the government has shown signs of wanting to repave it to facilitate the export of commodities.

Environmentalists and scientists warn that it could lead to uncontrolled deforestation in the region by increasing land speculation and giving easy access to land grabbers. After Bolsonaro announced that a section of the road would be repaved, deforestation in nearby areas quickly surged, according to Brazils national space agency.

Lula told Radio Difusora last June that he favored reconstruction, calling it important for the economies of Amazonas and Rondonia states. Ibamas president Rodrigo Agostinho told the AP in March that the agency has slowed the permitting process in order to analyze carefully.

The railway

Similar concerns surround a 933-kilometer (around 580 miles) railway known as Ferrograo that would move grains from the heartland toward the Tapajos River for eventual shipping abroad.

The project would mean fewer trucks moving soy and corn, and thus reduced carbon emissions. But it might also mean rising deforestation. A 2021 study from the Federal University of Minas Gerais projected deforestation of more than 230,000 hectares in Indigenous lands in Mato Grosso state by 2035 if it is completed.

The railway is on hold pending a courts ruling on the constitutionality of a law that permitted felling forest in the Jamanxim National Park to make way for its crossing.

In January, Lulas transport minister, Renan Filho, placed Ferrograo among top priority projects.

Doto Takak-Ire, who like Chief Raoni is a leader of the Kayapo, said in a column published in O Globo newspaper in March that the project would threaten the survival of 48 Indigenous peoples, and called it the railway of Indigenous genocide.

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DG Okonjo-Iweala reported on her recent trip to Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and Kenya, where she addressed how to strengthen the WTO's partnership with the region and better help African members take advantage of the opportunities offered by re-globalisation.

During those meetings, the Director-General had the opportunity to discuss challenges and opportunities for Africa's development through trade and the role of the WTO in this regard. Productive conversations were held on addressing challenges in Africa's industrialization and job creation in the face of multiple global crises  as well as on debt and trade finance, digital and green trade, and developments related to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA).

The DG also met trade ministers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in a roundtable on Implementation of the results of the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC12), and success for MC13.

There was a great deal of appreciation for what members did at MC12 and I talked about renewed momentum towards MC13, she said.

DG Okonjo-Iweala noted that one of the areas where WTO members need to make progress is on development discussions, both within the context of WTO reform and in the work of the Committee on Trade and Development (CTD) and the Committee on Trade and Development in special session (CTDSS).

The eyes of Africa are on us, specifically on special and differential treatment.  I therefore encourage you all to work hard and speed up this area of work to constructively engage in line with paragraph two of the MC12 outcome document, she said.

Fisheries subsidies was another area of interest during her trip, where the Director-General continued outreach efforts to drum up support and speed up relevant domestic processes towards the two-thirds of members' acceptance of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement needed for the Agreement to enter into force. Government officials expressed heightened concern on the issue of illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in Africa as well as on overcapacity and overfishing.

DG Okonjo-Iweala underscored the productive fisheries week members had at the end of April and the continuation in the deposit of instruments of acceptance for the Agreement, the latest coming from Canada. She also thanked Germany for contributing the first EUR 500,000 of a multi-year donation of EUR 2 million to the new WTO Fisheries Trust Fund to assist developing members and least-developed country (LDC) members to implement the Agreement.

I hope that other members in a position to do so will follow suit. But I do want to thank all members because I have not seen this level of enthusiasm to support the management of the Fish Fund as I am seeing now, DG Okonjo-Iweala said.

On agriculture and food security  another area which is key to Africa's development  DG Okonjo-Iweala referred to the latest agriculture week. She hoped it assisted members in inching forward to determining the collective what to allow the work on figuring out the collective how to begin if we want to deliver meaningful outcomes in agriculture.

In response to the strong interest expressed on digital trade and its potential for African industrialization, the DG underlined in her meeting with ECOWAS ministers how WTO members are building on the MC12 Decision on the E-Commerce Work Programme and moratorium. In this regard, she noted the WTO's partnerships with international organizations, including the World Bank, to discuss how to address the issue of digital infrastructure in Africa, both soft and hard.

Finally, and following up the suggestions made by members, DG Okonjo-Iweala announced her intention to convene in July a two-day formal meeting of the Trade Negotiations Committee (TNC) at the level of senior officials to facilitate our Geneva processes and have clear political guidance on our work after the summer break.

The new General Council Chair, Ambassador Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme of Botswana, reported on her consultations with members on the work ahead, including on WTO reform. She said she was encouraged by the high level of interest and engagement demonstrated on this issue and noted members' commitment to ensuring that the WTO is resilient, responsive, relevant and with equitable rules.

I believe that we are already on the right path. Members are fuelling the reform discussions. Several ideas which had been put forward informally have now been translated into formal written proposals, as is reflected in the current agenda. Other views are also being offered, she said. Let me sincerely thank all members for beginning to walk the talk.

Ambassador Molokomme also confirmed her plans to convene a second informal meeting on WTO reform, with a focus on the deliberative function of the WTO and institutional matters. Details on the meeting will be shared with members soon, she said. The first informal meeting took place on 10 November.

WTO members agreed at MC12 to work towards necessary reform of the WTO and improve all its functions, with the General Council and its subsidiary bodies conducting the work, reviewing progress and considering decisions, as appropriate, for submission to MC13.

Ambassador Usha Dwarka-Canabady of Mauritius, the facilitator of the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce and the e-commerce moratorium, provided members with an update on the work carried out so far under the Work Programme. Her update included a summary of the latest two dedicated discussions held on legal and regulatory frameworks and the e-commerce moratorium.

Four dedicated sessions have been held since January 2023 in the context of re-invigorating the Work Programme on Electronic Commerce and intensifying the discussions on the moratorium as follow-up to MC12 outcomes. The earlier dedicated discussions addressed the digital divide and consumer protection. A session involving international organisations will be held on 1-2 June to hear their views on these four themes.
There was no "Armenian genocide". In fact, the victims are Turks.

This was stated by former legal adviser in the administration of US President Ronald Reagan Bruce Fein. His words are quoted by the Turkiye newspaper, Azernews reports.

It is extremely interesting that the famous lawyer mentions the research on Armenian lies and especially the facts related to the issue of the so-called Armenian genocide.

According to Fein, President Ronald Reagan commissioned him and a group of others to conduct research on events that took place in the Ottoman Empire.

"We conducted an investigation, we were able to get to various documents of those times, stored in the archives of European countries and the Empire. Having studied all the data, we came to the conclusion that the allegations of Armenians about the" genocide "are unfounded and are an invention of Armenian historians. We should not forget that in In those days, all ethnic and religious minorities on the territory of the Ottoman Empire enjoyed the same privileges as the Turks themselves. Greeks, Armenians, Kurds, Circassians, Arabs and other minorities occupied quite high positions in the state," the ex-adviser noted.

In his statement to the foreign media, the former diplomat noted that Armenians are not only treacherous to other nations, but also to themselves. He recalled that during the First World War, local Armenians betrayed their homeland and went over to the side of the enemy. Armenian military units fought shoulder to shoulder with the Russian army on the Caucasian front.

"As a result, about 2 million people lost their lives. Despite everything, the Turkish side allowed us to look through all the archives, and the Armenians categorically refused to do so. In my opinion, the truth will come out if someone can look through these archives. Then the Armenians I will have to apologize to the whole world, in particular to the Turks, for the historical lie," Fein added.

Besides, in one of his early interviews to foreign media outlets, the American lawyer had criticized remarks of President Joe Biden calling 1915 events "genocide," saying it was a political statement and had nothing to do with the law.

According to him, among all the relevant powers in World War I, only Armenia had kept the archives secret, and it arouse a question - what Armenia is hiding?
The far-right Republican Party (PLR) scored a resounding triumph at the polls held in Chile on Sunday to elect the 50 members of the Constitutional Council, who will be tasked with drafting a new political charter for the country after the rejection last September of a prosed new Constitution put forward by the leftist government of Gabriel Boric.

The PLR, led by former presidential candidate Jose Antonio Kast, who won the first round of the 2021 election before being defeated by Boric, maintains the stance that the current Constitution, enshrined in 1980 during the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, remains valid and does not need to be altered. A new text will be submitted to the Chilean votership in December.

The Republican Party garnered 35% of the votes in Sunday ballot, winning 22 seats on the council. Borics coalition was second with 28%, gaining 17 of the 50 councilors, which will leave it without the power of veto, for which it required 21 seats. The far right was locked in an internal battle with the traditional conservative factions and came out on top, with the other rightist bloc made up of the Independent Democratic Union (UDI), National Renewal (RN) and Political Evolution (Evopoli), gaining 21% of the vote and 11 council members.

If these forecasts, paradoxes of history, are fulfilled, those who have for decades refused to consider the possibility of a constitutional change and who today represent the main threat to democracy, will have an open field to write the new text without any major obstacles, noted Pierina Ferretti, executive director of the Nodo XXI Foundation, which is linked to Borics Frente Amplio, before Sundays results were confirmed.

After the count had been completed, Kast delivered an address his partys headquarters. Today is the first day of a better future for our country. Chile has defeated a failed government, he said to cheers from supporters. Boric also addressed the nation, acknowledging that the failure of the first attempt to make changes to the Constitution  which was rejected by 62% of voters  was due in part to not listening to the opinions of those who thought differently. I want to invite the Republican Party not to make the same mistake we made, the president added.

The two right-wing blocs in Chile, the extreme right and the traditional conservatives, led by a new generation who remain committed to a new Constitution, exceeded expectations in Sundays vote. Combined, the political right has 33 seats on the Constitutional Council, surpassing even the most optimistic analytical projections of recent weeks. With this majority  over three-fifths of the council  the right can propose, approve, and modify constitutional norms.

The three traditional opposition parties, however, find themselves between a rock and a hard place: the temptation to toughen their positions in line with the PLR of Kast, a former UDI member, or maintaining their tactical distance to negotiate with the other factions on the Constitutional Council. The big question is whether the leadership of the conventional right is going to withstand the tsunami. The temptation to follow Kast and company will be strong, academic Cristobal Rovira, an expert on the ultra-right, tells EL PAIS. All the actors [from the Communists to the Republicans] have discussed public security day and night, it is the main theme of the ultra-right. It is the same as in Europe: if everyone is talking about immigration, the one who wins the battle is the one who opposes immigration.

At least two other milestones of significance were set in Sundays ballot: the extinction of the center-left grouped in the Todo por Chile bloc (the Party for Democracy, led by former president Ricardo Lagos and the current Minister of the Interior, Carolina Toha, the Radical Party and the Christian Democratic Party  the only one of the three that does not form part of Borics government).

The Todo por Chile coalition garnered just 9% of votes, leaving it without a representative on the council. It is a serious blow for the moderate sector that once shaped the Concertacion governments (1990-2010) and which gambled on distancing itself from Borics Frente Amplio and the rest of the left by running on its own.

Meanwhile, the Party of the People (PDG), the populist force led by economist Franco Parisi, came in last place despite forecasts that it would win some seats on the council. The PDG gained just 5.4% of the vote.

Sundays results in Chile have set up a great paradox for the countrys political future: when 15 million Chileans go back to the polls to either approve or reject the proposed new Constitution in December, they will be presented with a choice between the one drawn up by Kasts far-right or the 1980 text approved during the Pinochet dictatorship.

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The two blasts were small, but powerful in symbolism and the geopolitical context: two drones over the Kremlin, which Russian authorities claim were an attempt on the life of President Vladimir Putin. Moscow first blamed Kyiv, and then Washington, for the alleged attack last Wednesday. Both have strongly denied involvement and there is no evidence to suggest who was behind what happened, or exactly what happened in the first place. While intelligence sources stress that it is too early to determine, analysts and diplomats are divided on whether it was a false flag operation orchestrated by Russia to fuel anti-Western sentiment, an attack by Kyiv, or by anti-war partisan groups. At a time when a Ukrainian counter-offensive is widely expected and the Kremlin is also moving its troops on the frontlines  against the backdrop of Russias deepening perception of the impact of its war in Ukraine  there is one shared conclusion: the fear that Moscow will use the drone incident to launch a fresh offensive in Ukraine.

A Western diplomat formerly stationed in Russia believes that the attack is yet another maneuver by Moscow to inflame its rhetoric about the Kyiv government and that it will use it as a cover for another escalation of the war, with renewed attacks in Ukraine against political and civilian targets. The Kremlin will also take advantage of the excuse to further armor itself and stage another repressive barrage against its own citizens, while preparing the ground for a new mobilization, he adds. For the time being, although Russian state broadcasters have not made much mention of the drone attack, the deputy chairman of the Security Council of Russia, Dmitry Medvedev, has called for the elimination of [Volodymyr] Zelenskiy and his clique.

These are particularly sensitive days for the Kremlin on the eve of the commemoration of the Red Armys victory over the Nazis  Victory Day  which Russia usually celebrates with great pomp and ceremony on May 9, but which this year has generated a heightened sense of fear and paranoia. Moscow authorities have banned the use of drones throughout the city, deployed new equipment to monitor the skies and GPS jammers, placed anti-aircraft batteries on government buildings and encouraged private firms to deploy their own drone defenses.

However, other European sources argue that as the Kremlin has not come out of the drone attack in the best of lights, it seems implausible that it was behind it. Experts such as Mark Galeotti and Anton Barbashin of independent analysis organization Riddle Russia argue that rather than a false flag operation, it was the work of Ukrainian or pro-Ukrainian groups.

The drone incident comes after other events that have shaken the Kremlin, and for which authorship also remains unclear, including the murder last August of Darya Dugina, daughter of the ultranationalist Aleksander Dugin, for which Russia blames Ukraine; the murder on April 2 of the military blogger Vladlen Tatarsky; or the attack last Saturday on the pro-war writer Zakhar Prilepin. All three events were very similar in terms of the targets and, to a certain extent, in terms of the method used.

There has also been a spate of recent sabotage attacks on trains, recruiting centers, airfields, fuel depots, and factories that analysts suggest could be a mixture of the work of Ukrainian secret services and Russian opposition groups, which have been receiving more help from overseas. On Sunday, Russian authorities claimed to have foiled a drone attack on a military airfield in the center of the country.

Video capture of an alleged drone exploding near the dome of the Kremlin, May 3, 2023. OSTOROZHNO NOVOSTI (via REUTERS)

What the drone attack did achieve was to expose vulnerabilities in the heart of the Russian capital, while causing significant embarrassment for Russian air defenses and the Kremlins own protective screen, which is handled by the SVR, the intelligence agency in charge of protecting Putin and other members of the Moscow elite. It is unclear from the available footage whether the drones exploded or were shot down over the Kremlin. Whichever it is, Moscow is going to capitalize on it, says a senior EU source.

In Ukraine, the pro-Moscow authorities installed in the occupied territories of the Zaporizhzhia region have ordered the civilian population of several villages to evacuate, although Ukrainian intelligence sources point out that this is due more to preparations for the counteroffensive being prepared by Kyiv than as a reaction to the drone incident.

Meanwhile, NATO has warned that Russia, which is scanning the critical infrastructure systems of Atlantic Alliance member states, may be planning attacks on undersea cables essential for telecommunications and gas supplies. The risk is significant, NATOs assistant secretary general for intelligence and security, David Cattler, said. Moscow is stepping up patrols in the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Sea and around the Baltic, and the alliance is putting increasing effort into a coordination center set up in February to protect critical undersea infrastructure and to which it has now assigned more surveillance ships.

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The reach of Genaro Garcia Lunas corrupt tentacles throughout the Mexican government is still being discovered. New documents obtained by EL PAIS show that the secretary for Public Security in the Felipe Calderon administration (2006-2012) was behind lucrative sales of surveillance equipment to the Attorney Generals Office after former President Enrique Pena Nieto took office in 2012. Officials under former Attorney General Jesus Murillo Karam bought phone tapping technology from a company linked to Garcia Luna and then contracted maintenance services for that technology from another company in his corrupt network.

Garcia Luna, who was convicted in February of drug trafficking and organized crime in a New York court, is now facing a civil lawsuit in a Florida court brought by current President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors administration. Garcia Luna is accused of embezzling hundreds of millions of pesos from the Mexican government through the many contracts between his companies and public agencies. In its lawsuit against Garcia Luna, the Mexican governments financial intelligence unit (UIF) did not mention the contracts reported here with the Attorney Generals Office that earned him over five million pesos ($250,000) from sole source deals.

A contract shows that Garcia Luna used his influence to sell the Attorney Generals Office a NiceTrack phone surveillance system made by NICE Systems Ltd., which belonged to his front men in the Weinberg family. On November 19, 2013, Garcia Luna landed a deal to maintain that equipment for another of his companies  Nunvav Inc. According to the Attorney Generals Office, NiceTrack was used for all monitoring of private fixed and mobile telephony. It justified bypassing the bidding process and awarding the sole source contract to Garcia Lunas company by claiming an urgent need It is of the utmost importance to have a comprehensive support and maintenance service, states the recently revealed document that was classified as secret for years because of national security.

Brochure for the NiceTrack phone tracking software. Wikileaks

The Attorney Generals Office requires the supplier to maintain absolute confidentiality and not disclose or reveal to any individual or legal entity any of the information contained herein, states contract number PGR/AD/CN/SERV/159/2013. The company was contracted to provide all the labor and materials for the NiceTrack support and maintenance service. Nunvav was registered in Panama in October 2005, and is the principal company linked to Garcia Luna in the government corruption network investigated by the UIF. NICE Systems Ltd. is the Israeli company that owns the technology patent for the NiceTrack Location Tracking Solution system. In April 2013, Nunvav became the exclusive representative of NICE Systems in Mexico, and Rosalba Tapia Alvarado, the companys legal representative in Mexico, signed both of the contracts with the Attorney Generals Office.

On November 19, 2013, Garcia Luna landed another contract for Nunvav with the Attorney Generals Office headed by Jesus Murillo Karam, who is now in prison for the Ayotzinapa case (the 2014 abduction and murder of 43 male students from the Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers College). The second contract (#160/2013 for $151,000) was for support and maintenance services of another surveillance system  LAGUNA, made by a U.S. company called Spectra Group. R3D, a Mexican digital rights advocacy organization, previously exposed Garcia Lunas LAGUNA contract after filing a freedom-of-information lawsuit. As of 2021, the Attorney Generals asset inventory included a Spectra Group network telephony communication server, valued at 8.6 million pesos ($48,500), according to Mexicos government transparency website. R3Ds information request to the Attorney Generals Office asked for everything related to the Nunvav contracts, but the recently disclosed contract (159/2013) was not included in the information provided by the authorities. They lie to us and hide contracts all the time, said R3D Executive Director Luis Fernando Garcia.

Its a good business. And if youre corrupt, its paradise, said Garcia, who told EL PAIS services contracts with government security agencies provide companies like Nunvav with a steady source of income for system updates and maintenance. They justify the secrecy around these contracts, citing national security or law enforcement matters, and benefit from sole source contracts. They also justify wasting large amounts of public money because of the specialized technology involved. Plus, they use the intelligence collected from their spying for their own political and financial gain, and to solidify and abuse power. Garcia says these contracts are out of control, because they facilitate corruption, and are invasions of privacy.

The Garcia Luna-Weinberg nexus

Genaro Garcia Luna was the point person for the war on drugs during the Calderon administration. He was convicted by a New York jury of accepting millions in bribes from the Sinaloa Cartel when it was led by Joaquin El Chapo Guzman. In 2021, the UIF filed a civil lawsuit against Garcia Luna in a Florida court, alleging he stole from the Mexican government through contracts signed by his companies and cronies with various government agencies during the Calderon and Pena Nieto administrations. The Mexican government hopes to recover $750 million in public funds channeled through 30 contracts with the Federal Police, the Ministry of the Interior and the Mexico City Prosecutors Office between 2009 and 2018.

From left: Eduardo Medina Mora, Attorney General; Enrique Pena Nieto, Governor of Mexico City; and Genaro Garcia Luna, Minister of Public Security; February 2006. Carlos Tischler (Cuartoscuro)

In the civil lawsuit, the UIF omitted the two contracts awarded by the Attorney Generals Office to Garcia Lunas companies. Mexican news media has reported that the Attorney Generals Office (now headed by Alejandro Gertz Manero) never supported the UIF lawsuit. The Attorney General even launched an investigation against former UIF director Santiago Nieto for allegedly lacking the authority to represent the Mexican government in a U.S. court. The Gertz-Nieto political rivalry has since played out in public several times.

A key component of the UIFs lawsuit is Garcia Lunas relationship with the Weinberg family, which started in the 1980s when Garcia Luna worked for CISEN, the Mexican governments primary civilian intelligence unit. Mauricio Samuel Weinberg Lopez and his family sell Israeli technology to Latin American countries. Mauricio Weinberg is listed as the owner of Nunvav Inc. along with his son Jonathan Alexis Weinberg Pinto and a partner named Natan Wancier. All three are named in the UIF lawsuit. Nunvav served as the main conduit for funds illegally diverted from Mexico, says the UIF lawsuit.

The Weinbergs also played a key role in facilitating Garcia Lunas move to Florida after leaving public office. The ex-government official lived in luxurious properties owned by his partners and used their yacht. They also supported his application to become a naturalized U.S. citizen, which was in process when he was arrested in Texas in late 2019 to face trial in New York. Weinberg clan members are named repeatedly in the UIF lawsuit as the owners, company directors and front men in over 40 companies used by Garcia Lunas network to buy luxury cars and million-dollar properties, and as conduits for money sent from Mexico to Barbados, Israel and the United States. Nunvav had a Panamanian subsidiary, Nunvav Technologies Inc., which was also part of the corruption scheme.

With its civil lawsuit, the Mexican government hopes to recover money stolen from public coffers through this network of corruption, bribes and shell companies. The Attorney Generals Office says it also has three other investigations underway into these front companies that not only concealed the money trail to Garcia Luna and other players. The details of the Nunvav contract with the Attorney Generals Office are now known, but the companys deal with the Israeli technology supplier is still a mystery. Most likely there were bribes, inflated prices, and many other hidden details, said Luis Fernando Garcia.

Cutting-edge spy technology

NICE touts its NiceTrack solution as a tool that transforms location data into mission-critical intelligence for its clients. The software can collect massive amounts of data in real time and cross-reference tracking information with other data sources like credit card purchases and satellite geolocation (GPS) data without the target noticing. It can also produce a location history for a target, and report on whether he goes to church on Sundays, occasionally sleeps away from home, and where he meets with co-workers. Location is not trivial [information]  sometimes it says much more than the communications themselves, said Garcia.

Locate Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere, reads one headline in the NiceTrack brochure. The Israeli technology company claims to have contracts with companies and governments in over 150 countries dedicated to reducing crime and preventing terrorism. The NiceTrack Location Tracking solution will help clients identify new targets and suspects bridge intelligence gaps and detect suspicious incidents. By the time Garcia Luna stepped down as secretary of Public Security in December 2012, the ministry used the Israeli companys technology extensively. It purchased NiceTrack from the Weinbergs in 2009 through three contracts that covered the software and peripheral equipment, as well as installation and support services.

Spectra Groups LAGUNA system is a tool for intercepting radio transmissions and telephone signals in real time. The most recent version promises an extraordinary 99.9% success rate. The companys website says the sale of its product is explicitly restricted to qualified law-enforcement agencies, government entities, and military intelligence, only. In November 2012, shortly after the change in government, Nunvav won a contract with the department of Security (still headed by Garcia Luna) for LAGUNA support and maintenance services, similar to the contract it would sign a year later with the Attorney Generals Office, although at a much higher price. The Ministry of Public Security paid $12 million to Garcia Lunas company and its front men for that contract. Other contracts have yet to see the light of day. We have only seen the tip of the iceberg, said Luis Garcia.

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Dozens of people protest against the monarchy during the coronation in London on Saturday, as the royal procession passes by. SEBASTIEN BOZON (AFP)

The chief enemy of republicanism in the United Kingdom has long been Britons widespread indifference to the monarchy. It is an attitude that the Metropolitan Police sought to capitalize on as it cracked down on even the slightest hint of public disorder during King Charles IIIs coronation in London. In the aftermath of the celebrations, however, questions have been raised about law enforcements actions in its eagerness to protect the image of a historic event  notably, the arrest of several activists ahead of the coronation. We [] have a duty to intervene when protest becomes criminal and may cause serious disruption, Met Police Commander Karen Findlay has said in defense of her forces. This depends on the context. The coronation is a once in a generation event and that is a key consideration in our assessment.

The argument that the coronation was an exceptional occurrence, having not taken place since Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953, has been used to justify a series of police actions that have sparked deep concern among human-rights groups. The reports of people being arrested for peacefully protesting against the coronation are incredibly alarming, says Yasmine Ahmed, the director of Human Rights Watch UK. Sacha Deshmukh, the chief executive of Amnesty International UK, added: The coronation shouldnt become yet another excuse for undermining peoples basic human rights in this country and were awaiting more details over these concerning reports of arrests.

Three days before the coronation, in a move whose timing raised suspicions among many activists  but, Rishi Sunaks government insists, was coincidental  new legislation aimed at controlling public protests was signed into law. In the last four years, actions by groups such as Extinction Rebellion and Just Stop Oil have sought to block roads and other transport networks in the U.K.s chief cities. Their sit-down protests have come at a huge cost to the British taxpayer, the countrys Home Office says: more than 50 million, with thousands of police officers mobilized and over 750 arrests made. The new Public Order Act gives law enforcement greater powers to intercept individuals or groups suspected of setting out to cause disorder or carrying dangerous objects. It also includes stiffer penalties for protesters who try to attach themselves to objects or buildings in a bid to disrupt city infrastructure.

Despite the promises made by Minister of State for Security Tom Tugendhat, who in the days leading up to the event pledged that protests would be respected, his department opted to send a pre-coronation letter to certain groups, warning them of the new legislation. The tactic was denounced as intimidatory by many activists, including Graham Smith, the leader of the anti-monarchy organization Republic. For months, his movement had been preparing a large protest for the day of the coronation, under the slogan Not My King. Although republican sentiment remains in the minority in the U.K., the group had secured tens of thousands of signatures of support on its website, as well as thousands of pounds in donations, and expected at least 2,000 people to attend its demonstration in Trafalgar Square, located on the royal procession route.

Pre-emptive arrests

The tone of the letter sent by Tugendhats department, and the commotion it caused, discouraged many who were considering joining the protest. The definitive blow, however, was struck at 7 a.m. local time on Saturday, when a group of police officers appeared on St. Martins Lane, near Trafalgar Square, and arrested Smith and five other members of his group without explanation. When they were detained, the activists were preparing to remove protest placards from a van and hand out warm drinks among those who were starting to arrive. They were held until 11 a.m., shortly before the royal procession departed Buckingham Palace. Im now out of the police station, Smith tweeted. Still waiting for my colleagues. Make no mistake. There is no longer a right to peaceful protest in the UK. I have been told many times the monarch is there to defend our freedoms. Now our freedoms are under attack in his name.

Monarchys popularity on the slide

Although the majority of Britons still back the monarchy, support has waned in recent years. According to the latest YouGov poll, at least 25% of the population would prefer to choose their head of state at the ballot box. And among 18 to 24-year-olds, just 36% are in favor of the status quo. Growing up, I thought that republicanism was impossible, Alexander Larman, the author of The Crown in Crisis, a book about the 1936 abdication of Edward VIII, tells EL PAIS. Now, I can see that there is the possibility of an evolution that occurs over the next generation, or two generations, whereby the royal family no longer have any public funding or responsibilities, and occupy no greater place in the national consciousness.

The U.K. is in a cost-of-living crisis, and has gone from a queen revered by Britons of all ages to a king who inspires resentment among some older people  over his disastrous divorce from Lady Di  and indifference among the younger generations. The conditions are there for organizations like Republic to flourish, but Sunaks government showed on Saturday that it will stand in their way. Some argue that the coronation is not the right place to make a political statement, Brendan ONeill wrote in The Spectator, a magazine that the most hardened conservatives always carry under their arm. I disagree. The coronation itself is a political statement. It is a loud, noisy, pomp-filled declaration that Britain remains a monarchy and that Charles, by divine right, is our King. This is the perfect event for republican dissent, for the peaceful expression of an alternative view.

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Joe Piscatellas 2017 Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower offered a fairly exhilarating view of youth activism, as it charted one Hong Kong students spearheading public opposition to mainland Chinas increasingly heavy-handed takeover. The can-do optimism that documentary left viewers with is on life support in the directors follow-up, which shifts nominal focus to one of Joshua Wongs fellow protest leaders. But mostly Whos Afraid of Nathan Law? observes the gradual crushing of a pro-democracy movement that not long ago had promised to engage Beijing in genuine dialogue. This equally skillful if much more downbeat sequel should follow its predecessor to wide travel on the festival circuit, then broadcast and streaming exposure.

Law was a college freshman when he first met then-high school students Wong and so-called princess of democracy Agnes Chow. The trio became perhaps the most identifiable faces in a largely youth-driven cause that rose up initially in objection to new Communist minders decrees towards academia, then broadened and gained steam as yet more restrictive policies were introduced. It became rapidly clear that Beijing had little intention of granting Hong Kong citizens the relative autonomy theyd been promised.

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The documentarys first third basically retraces the earlier films events, in which resistance atypical for this culture spiraled into massive marches involving one, then two million participants. For a while, it seemed the Umbrella Movement (named for participants choice of defense against pepper spray) might really make the mainland monolith reconsider its course.

Alas, that turned out to be a false hope. Apparently afraid that giving an inch on Hong Kong might prove a launching pad for a democratic revolution in China, as one observer here puts it, Party leadership clamped down with unprecedented physical force, raising queasy fears of another Tiananmen Square.

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Considered by some the brains of the youth movement, Law ran for a Legislative Council seat at age 23. Though his campaign was scoffed at, he won, becoming the youngest such winner ever. But the hopes that pro-democracy forces might thus be able to create change from within were promptly dashed when Beijings appointed figures invented a new rule they used to retroactively disqualify all political opponents from office.

Then laws were introduced threatening those even suspected of dissent with mainland extradition, causing another huge uproar as well as heightened violence between protestors, police and (it was rumored) gangsters hired to rough up agitating citizens. The infamous 2020 National Security Law further introduced all the instruments of a police state [to] put Hong Kong in handcuffs, says Chris Patten, the territorys last Governor under British oversight.

Journalists were now openly targeted, protestors labeled terrorists, and their leaders threatened with deportation, imprisonment or worse. Bookending Afraid are scenes that show the quietly well-spoken Law (talking English, like nearly everyone here) being interviewed in some empty building interior, whereabouts unknown for security reasons. He has cause to fear kidnapping. Extremely broad recent decrees would rubber-stamp that or any other means of putting radicals on trial for just about anything that could be construed as anti-state, punishable by incarceration up to life. Theres a simple reason Law is the main figure here: Chow and Wong, as well as many other activists who didnt flee in time, are either in prison or muzzled post-release. Overt defiance has been largely, and literally, exiled.

As in Joshua, all this is told in a fast-paced mix of personal reminiscence (including from select outside press and political figures), handheld cellphone footage, and worldwide TV news reportage. The sum effect is just as engaging  only rather than exciting faith in the individuals ability to generate change, the course of history here shows individuality ground under by a seemingly all-powerful state. At the end, Nathan Law is still an active voice of resistance, but admits suffering survivor guilt even in remaining at liberty to do so.

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The post Alicia Keys Reimagines If I Aint Got You with an All-Women of Color Orchestra: Watch appeared first on Consequence.

Alicia Keys was recently joined by an orchestra of over 70 women of color for a reimaged version of her 2004 hit If I Aint Got You. Released with an accompanying video, the new recording is for the upcoming Netflix and Shondaland series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

Named Queen Charlottes Global Orchestra, the group is made up of female musicians of color from countries all across the globe, including Sweden, Egypt, Germany, France, and more. The video shows Keys and the orchestra  led by South Africas first Black female conductor Ofentse Pitse  dressed in regal makeup and garb reminiscent of the Bridgerton era, surrounded by the tall ornate walls and chandeliers. Naturally, Keys sits at a grand piano in front of the orchestra as she sings slong.

I feel like its going to open the minds of many people to realize that women of color belong everywhere and weve always been everywhere, Keys said of the new recording in an interview with Billboard. Its magical.

If I Aint Got You (Orchestra Version) will be featured on the Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (Covers from the Netflix Series) soundtrack alongside instrumental covers of pop songs from Beyonce, SZA, Whitney Houston, and more. Watch the video featuring Queen Charlottes Global Orchestra below.

Keys just kicked off her Keys to the Summer Tour, which comes to North America next month. You can still purchase tickets via StubHub, where orders are 100% guaranteed through StubHubs FanProtect program. StubHub is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

Alicia Keys Reimagines If I Aint Got You with an All-Women of Color Orchestra: Watch

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Black Lives Matter protest to demand justice for death of Jordan Neely - Credit: Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis/Getty Images

Lawyers for the family of Jordan Neely have responded to the first statement from Daniel Penny, the man who killed Neely on a New York City subway last week. The attorneys, Donte Mills and Lennon Edwards, called Pennys statement neither an apology nor an expression of regret but a character assassination.

Last Monday, May 1, Neely who was unhoused and seemingly having a mental health crisis, was reportedly yelling and acting erratically on a subway car when Penny put him in a fatal chokehold. An independent journalist captured part of the incident on video and later said Neely had not assaulted anyone before Penny put him in a chokehold for approximately 15 minutes.

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While the medical examiner has ruled Neelys death a homicide, saying he died via compression to his neck caused by the chokehold, Penny, 24, has not been charged (as of last week, prosecutors were still weighing whether to bring a case against him). Penny has, however, enlisted criminal defense attorneys Steven Raiser and Thomas Kenniff, who released a statement on his behalf last Friday, May 5. In it, they accused Neely of having a documented history of violent and erratic behavior and said he was aggressively threatening Daniel Penny and the other passengers on the subway.

In their new statement, the Neely family lawyers fired back, calling Pennys statement a clear example of why he believed he was entitled to take Jordans life. It continues, In the first paragraph he talks about how good he is and the next paragraph he talks about how bad Jordan was in an effort to convince us Jordans life was worthless. The truth is, he knew nothing about Jordans history when he intentionally wrapped his arms around Jordans neck, and squeezed and kept squeezing.

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Mills and Edwards also called out the way Pennys statement suggests that the general public has shown indifference for people like Jordan. But, they say, that term is more appropriately used to describe [Penny].

They continue: It is clear he is the one who acted with indifference, both at the time he killed Jordan and now in his first public message. He never attempted to help him at all. In short, his actions on the train, and now his words, show why he needs to be in prison.

Pennys lawyers did not immediately return Rolling Stones request for comment.

The statement ended with a few words for New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who has drawn some criticism for his response to Neelys killing. Asking Adams to call the Neely family, the statement said, The family wants you to know that Jordan matters. You seem to think others are more important than him. You cannot assist someone with a chokehold.

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Danna-Paola-cr-Heberto-Laguna-RS-1800 - Credit: Mauricio Lopez

Danna Paola is bringing her pop power to the United States for the first time. Rolling Stone can exclusively announce that the Mexican pop star will embark on her 10-stop XT4S1S Tour later this year.

I cant be happier and more excited about this news, Paola tells Rolling Stone. Bringing my music live for the first time to the U.S. is a dream come true and it is a very big door for me at this time of my career.

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Paola will kick off her tour in San Jose on Aug. 11 before making stops in cities such as Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City. The shows will be unique for these venues, and we have surprises, she adds. I cant wait to meet all my fans and conquer new hearts with my music.

The new tour is named after her viral single XT4S1S, which she dropped last year. Among her recent releases are 1Trago this year, along with her collab with New Hope Club Know Me Too Well and Mexico with Ne-Yo.

[XT4S1S] opened up a new panorama for me where there are no rules, Paola told Rolling Stone last fall. I believe today my drive as an artist, and my drive to continue to create music, is to experiment, and to make music that connects with my five senses.

Paola started her career as a child star on telenovelas in the early 2000s, later launching her pop career with the teen pop album Danna Paola in 2012. Shes since dropped mature LPs Sie7e+ and K.O. in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Shes also working on a new record.

Its super electronic pop. Im playing with house music, techno, R&B, funk, and bringing those mixes of experimental pop into Spanish, she said. Im in this rebel moment where Im not going to follow the rules. Its refreshing to reinvent myself, to be reborn, and Im more sure about what I want to do than ever before.

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Danna Paolas XT4S1S Tour Dates:

Aug. 11  San Jose, CA @ San Jose Civic

Aug. 18  Houston, TX @ 713 Music Hall

Aug. 19  Irving, TX @ The Pavillion at Toyota Music Factory

Aug. 24  Inglewood, CA @ YouTube Theater

Sept. 1  Miami, FL @ James L. Knight Center

Sept. 2  Atlanta, GA @ Coca-Cola Roxy

Sept. 8  Rosemont, IL @ Rosemont Theatre

Sept. 9  New York, NY @ Palladium Times Square

Sept. 15  Pheonix, AZ @ Arizona Financial Theater

Sept. 16  El Cajon, CA @ The Magnolia

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What determines the value of a friendship? To make this determination, one could consider an array of criteria: is a friend simply an acquaintance, someone you occasionally make plans with? Or is it someone willing to listen to your sorrows, someone who lends a helping hand in a difficult moment, who is there for you through thick and thin? Or is a friend simply that person with whom you maintain a lasting relationship over time, with whom you share key elements of your past, such as the neighborhood you grew up in or the school you attended?

The ever-growing presence of social media has turned much of the fabric of interpersonal relationships into the virtual plane, introducing new possibilities to the concept of friendship, altering its more traditional meaning. Could two people who do not follow each other on social networks be friends? Or, on the contrary, could those who have only interacted on Instagram or TikTok be considered friends?

The writer Sara Torres, author of Lo que hay (Reservoir Books, 2022), spoke about the idea of friendship on the Ciberlocutorio podcast, hosted by Andrea Gumes and Anna Pacheco: Do we consider friends the people to whom we attribute symbolic capital? Do we call people friends because we want to be part of their world? Following these reflections, the subsequent episode of the program, entitled Managers de la amistad [Managers of friendship], also addressed the breakdown of friendships and the subsequent mourning that follows, in a context in which financial terms such as manage, invest, readjust or compensate are now being used to refer to personal relationships.

The question of what a good friend is or what a good friend should do has recently taken over social media. In an article published in Dazed titled Are we all becoming terrible friends?, Hannah Mackenzie reflects on the current meaning of friendship, drawing on criticisms voiced on TikTok of what has come to be colloquially referred to in internet parlance as trauma dumping, which could be interpreted unloading traumatic experiences on others without warning or invitation. In the same way, other practices such as asking for help to carry out a move were questioned, along with any other practices that could be considered as asking for too much from friends, such as asking for a ride to the airport when you could just get an Uber.

On social media, there is a dilemma surrounding what can be demanded of a friend or to what extent it is healthy to help friends, and which leads to other questions, such as how to set limits in friendships  to learn to say no, or even, if necessary, to sever a relationhip with a close friend. On the thorny question of how to end a friendship and what reasons lead to this scenario, the journalist Sophie K. Rosa, author of Radical Intimacy and one of the sources cited in the piece, points to the impact of modern capitalism on the rhythms of life, starting with the proportion of hours dedicated to working.

Marta Carmona, psychiatrist and member of the Madrid Association of Mental Health, elaborates on this in a conversation with EL PAIS. Carmona is co-author of Malestamos (Capitan Swing, 2022), an essay that analyzes the influence modern capitalism has on the concern for mental health in the face of the growing trend in social networks that advises setting limits in friendships. The psychotherapeutic experience is an individual, non-transferable experience that happens within the framework of therapy, but from which we often have the illusion of being able to draw, as if they were universal truths, phrases that have been tremendously restorative in consultation. When we do this, it immediately becomes a cork, Carmona says. There is a tendency to try to extrapolate general guidelines, writing decalogues or a certain prescription of how relationships should be. This ignores the complexity of human relationships, as in the case of friendship. One of these strategies that is not usually contextualized and that lands badly on the variety that clinical experience provides is that it is necessary and healthy to set limits. And this is not a lie, but it cannot be put as a general rule when you do not discriminate who you are dealing with or what type of interaction it is.

According to the psychiatrist, behind the pretense of avoiding adulterating friendships with requests that could be remedied by contracting a service (such as calling an Uber), there is, paradoxically, the mediation of a very mercantilist logic. The idea of approaching a friendship as a matter to be managed is further proof that this mercantilist logic, which leads to the use of financial concepts to understand what is relational, is tremendously impoverishing, she says.

A young man gives his friend a ride in a car. Lupe Rodriguez (Getty Images/Westend61)

Breaking up with friends can be even more complicated than ending a relationship. Ghosting (breaking up with someone without telling them, simply by not replying to their messages) is already recognized and noted as a malpractice in the field of sex-affective responsibility. However, when it comes to friendships it remains a common practice. The psychiatrist and writer points to the lack of cultural references that address the end of friendship in comparison with the copious literature that exists on romantic relationships. Except for relationships that are contextualized in the phase of adolescence, in which these bonds are essential for the configuration of the subjects identity, there is little representation [in literature] of mourning a friendship, she explains. We lack cultural tools to [navigate] mourning for a friendship that is broken, and this is a complex and necessary phenomenon, which is part of who we are. This idea that everything has to be managed is impoverishing the subject and also our relationships. Not only because we choose the financial logic [to make sense of it], but because it is the only [option] we have [to deal with it].

The underlying question behind these dilemmas  which are not new, but which have become more relevant during the digital age  is, in short, what we consider friendship. We need people to regain the ability to act on their lives, to be able to define who they are, to be able to define how they relate [to one another], proposes the author of Malestamos. Beyond the terminology of market analysis that applies concepts such as risk, investment or profit to affection, the question of what friendship is and what gestures it should imply remains in the air as a reflection that can be exciting, and both personal and collective. It begs the question: what [kind of] friendships do we want?, says Carmona, who adds that the traditional notion of what a friend is no longer applies in the age of social media.

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U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin will be the commencement speaker at Fayetteville State Universitys graduation ceremony Saturday.

He is one of several notable people who are scheduled to speak or have spoken at college graduations in the Fayetteville area.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will speak at Fayetteville State University's commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

Defense secretary at Fayetteville State

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is a former Fort Bragg commander who had several assignments there over a 41-year career in the Army.

Austin, a retired U.S. Army four-star general, is the first African-American Secretary of Defense. He is the principal assistant to the president in all matters relating to the Department of Defense and serves on the National Security Council, a news release from Fayetteville State says.

Austins wife, Charlene B. Austin, graduated from Fayetteville State in 1979.

Fayetteville States ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at the Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville. The ceremony is free and open to the general public, a spokeswoman said.

Cape Fear profile: Mary Lynn Bryan creates a community legacy

Tammy Thurman, the senior community relations and government affairs manager for Piedmont Natural Gas, will be the speaker at Fayetteville Technical Community College's commencement ceremony on Friday, May 12, 2023

Tammy Thurman at Fayetteville Tech

Fayetteville Technical Community College is holding graduation ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday at the Crown Coliseum. Tammy Thurman is the keynote speaker at both. They are open to the public.

As the senior community relations and government affairs manager for Piedmont Natural Gas, Thurman seeks to build sustainable relationships with community stakeholders and groups, a news release says.

She is also a member of the colleges board of trustees, the Board of Visitors at Fayetteville State University, the Advisory Board for the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities, and the Board of Trustees at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.

Chief Mutawi Mutahash (Many Hearts) Lynn Malerba, who serves as treasurer of the United States, will be the speaker at UNC Pembroke's commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

Methodist and UNC-Pembroke

Chief Mutawi Mutahash (Many Hearts) Lynn Malerba is the first Native American to serve as the U.S. treasurer and spoke at UNC Pembroke's commencement ceremony this past Saturday.

The treasurer  not to be confused with the treasury secretary  has direct oversight of the U.S. Mint and Fort Knox and is a key liaison with the Federal Reserve, the U.S. Department of the Treasury website says. The signatures of both the treasurer and the secretary of the treasury appear on American currency.

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Malerba is chief of the Mohegan Tribe, which is based in Connecticut. UNC-Pembroke was founded to serve American Indians and it continues to celebrate that heritage.

Cape Fear Valley Health CEO Mike Nagowski was the keynote speaker for the graduate students at Methodist University's graduation this past Friday.

Nagowski played a pivotal role in the ongoing plan to establish a medical school at Methodist, a news release says.

Mary Lynn Bryan was the keynote speaker for the graduation of the undergraduates on this past Saturday at the Crown Coliseum.

Bryan moved to Fayetteville as a young woman to be with her husband. In the ensuing decades, she became a key person who made things happen for the community. She led the Cumberland Community Foundation as it raised millions for charitable causes, was a trustee and chair of Methodists board as the school grew.

Senior North Carolina reporter Paul Woolverton can be reached at 910-261-4710 and pwoolverton@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Lloyd Austin among speakers at Fayetteville university graduations
The two billionaires haven't always seen eye to eye and apparently were supporting different racing teams over the weekend

CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images; Mark Thompson/Getty Images

Two of the world's richest men descended upon Miami over the weekend for a little Formula 1 fun!

Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk were both in attendance at the 2023 Miami Grand Prix at the Miami International Autodrome in Florida, where they showed support for separate teams.

Musk, 51, was accompanied by his son X  A-12 as he paid a visit to the Oracle Red Bull Racing team on Saturday.

"Yesterday in the pit," the Twitter owner wrote alongside a group photo with drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez  who finished the race in the top two spots  and team principal Christian Horner.

Meanwhile, the 59-year-old Amazon co-founder was photographed with McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown. (As Insider noted, AWS, an Amazon subsidiary, actually sponsors yet another team, Ferrari.)

Related:Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Enjoy Date Night at F1 Carbone Beach Party

In response to a separate social media post, which noted the fact that both billionaires, who haven't always seen eye to eye, attended the event, Musk simply wrote that he had a "fun discussion of aero & battery technology in F1" and "proposed a pure EV vs gas/hybrid F1 race."

Clive Mason - Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez at the final practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix

Bezos was also seen spending time with partner Lauren Sanchez at the American Express Presents Carbone Beach party Saturday night.

The couple seemed excited to be celebrating as they were photographed holding hands on a red carpet before the big race.

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The longtime rivalry between Bezos and Musk has been going on for over a decade, dating back to 2004. Notably, they've engaged in a years-long space race with their respective reusable rocket companies.

Musk had founded Space Exploration Technologies (a.k.a. SpaceX), in 2002  two years after Bezos launched Blue Origin in 2000.

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Related:A Timeline of Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk's Feud

The dispute disappeared from the public eye for nearly a decade before resurfacing in 2013, when Blue Origin filed a complaint against SpaceX's attempt to lease out NASA's launchpad.

The request was rejected, and SpaceX eventually prevailed in taking over the pad.

Related:Elon Musk's Son X, 2, Makes Rare Appearance, Playing with Dad at Miami Conference  See Photos!

Since then, the feuding billionaires have traded several jabs.

Back in 2021, Musk spoke about Bezos during an interview with the Financial Times, saying that while his fellow billionaire has "reasonably good engineering aptitude," he thought Bezos "does not seem to be willing to spend mental energy getting into the details of engineering."

"[He] does take himself a bit too seriously," he added. "In some ways, I'm trying to goad him into spending more time at Blue Origin so they make more progress. As a friend of mine says, he should spend more time at Blue Origin and less time in the hot tub."

Most recently, in Sept. 2022, Musk shared his displeasure with Amazon's Lord of the Rings series on Twitter.

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John and Elaine Tressler were both 19 when they married in 1960.

This past January, my longtime friend Jen, who is my regular traveling companion and has made several appearances in these columns, called to tell me her father would soon die.

Several years ago, Mr. Tressler was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's. And, yet, he seemed himself when Jen and I talked to him on the phone in May 2021 while we toured Iceland and again later that year when we went to Peru.

In January 2022, Jen, who lives in Philadelphia, spent two weeks with her parents' at their home in Painesville, where they've lived since 1980. She, her dad and her eldest daughter came to Akron to shop at their favorite thrift store, Village Discount Outlet on Waterloo, and visit me.

Holly Christensen

Over lunch at my home, Mr. Tressler recounted various times over three decades that he and I had visited, both with and without Jen. I had forgotten several of these accounts until he shared them. That I was in his long-term memories when he was no longer able to write his own name was an honor unlike any other.

Jen's job as a triage nurse for a medical practice at the University of Pennsylvania periodically allowed her to work remotely. Every month or two, she'd come to Ohio to spend a week helping her family take care of her dad while also spending increasingly precious time with him.

During one of her stays late last spring, I drove my youngest two kids to Painesville where we spent the afternoon and dinner with Jen and her family.

Mr. Tressler seemed unchanged from January and, again, we talked of many things. While dishing up bowls of ice cream, he showed me his significant collection of ice cream scoops. Upon learning I had none, he gave me one.

Two months later, Mr. Tressler's Alzheimer's specialists told the family he was beginning to decompensate and would soon need full-time care. Jen and I were shocked, but like Delphi oracles, the specialists were tragically correct.

When Jen called this past January, I asked if her mother would be OK if I visited Mr. Tressler at Kemper House, where he was living. Some families prefer their loved one with Alzheimer's to be remembered as they were without the disease. And, too, some people with Alzheimer's are agitated by visits.

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Mrs. Tressler told Jen she welcomed my visit, but then, just two days later and before I could make the trip, Mr. Tressler died.

I first introduced readers to Jen when I wrote of the 14 months that she, her husband, Milan, and their four daughters circumnavigated the globe beginning in August 2015. This past fall, after their two eldest daughters had graduated from college and high school, the family again left the country, this time to tour Central America and South America for several months.

They were in Patagonia, at the southernmost tip of South America, when Mr. Tressler died. Returning in time for the funeral proved overly complicated and costly. On my drive to the funeral, Jen called and asked if I could so something neither of us would have thought of before the pandemic: Zoom her into her dad's funeral.

Jen's mother, siblings and their spouses sat in the first row of pews at St. Gabriel's Catholic Church in Concord. I sat behind them in the second row, holding my phone up so Jen could see and hear their parish priest perform the funeral rites.

Before he developed Alzheimer's, Mr. Tressler could be described as gruff. He grew up in a working-class Ukrainian community in Reading, Pennsylvania, and married his sweetheart soon after they finished high school. He worked hard every day of his life and didn't suffer nonsense. But he could also assess a person's character with mystical accuracy. And if he found you measured up, you could forever count on him.

John and Elaine Tressler share a moment last fall.

After Mr. Tressler's. death, Jen and her siblings learned of their father's unadvertised history of generosity. The people he helped and how he helped them revealed a man who understood firsthand what it meant to have little and that being poor is not a character flaw.

The priest shared many stories of Mr. Tressler's quiet largesse, including the time he arranged and paid for the dental work for the city worker who collected the family's trash each week.

Far too many people past the age of 30 have experienced the vicissitudes of a friend or family member losing their memories, personalities and lives to Alzheimer's disease.

But, as I have shared in previous columns, current Alzheimer's research is promising. Studies around the world, including those focused on people with Down syndrome, look to yield preventative and corrective treatments in the coming years. That is something everyone can welcome.

Contact Holly Christensen at whoopsiepiggle@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Memories of a good man are cherished
Voters at the polls at Valley High School on Nov. 6, 2022.

It's primary election season in Kentucky, and you know what that means: Voting!

To help you make your picks for key state offices that are on the ballot this month, we've assembled voter guides with information about all the candidates in each contested race.

But remember that Kentucky's primaries are closed, meaning that Republicans can't take Democrats ballots and vice-versa. Only registered voters from each party can cast ballots in their respective races.

Who are all the candidates for governor in Kentucky's 2023 primaries?

You've probably seen the onslaught of ads in the GOP race, but both the Republicans and Democrats have primaries this year.

On the GOP side, there are 12 candidates (including Daniel Cameron, Kelly Craft and Ryan Quarles).

Among Democrats, Gov. Andy Beshear has two challengers.

Beyond those voter guides, here are stories we've written about five of the GOP candidates for governor.

For subscribers: Here's where Kentucky governor candidates stand on gun policies after Louisville shootings

Are there other races in Kentucky's 2023 primaries beyond governor?

All of Kentucky's constitutional state offices are up for election this year, but some aren't contested in the primary. For instances, there is only one Republican and one Democrat running for attorney general, so Russell Coleman and Pamela Stevenson, respectively, will square off in the fall. Democrats only had one candidate for some other offices. Here's what we do have, and we've assembled voter guides for these primary contests:

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When is voting in Kentucky's primaries?

Of course, the traditional Election Day is May 16. However, in-person excused absentee voting continues May 8-10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. All excused absentee voting in Louisville will happen at the Jefferson County Clerk Election Center at 1000 E. Liberty St.

No-excuse early voting takes place May 11-13 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Voters can cast a ballot at any of the following voting centers during those times:

The Arterburn  310 Ten Pin Lane

Bowman Field  2815 Taylorsville Road

The Jeffersonian  10617 Taylorsville Road

Kentucky Center for African American Heritage  1701 W. Muhammad Ali Blvd.

Sun Valley Community Center  6505 Bethany Lane

Mary Queen of Peace Gym  4005 Dixie Highway

Triple Crown Pavilion  1780 Plantside Drive

Kentucky Exposition Center: Broadbent Arena  937 Phillips Lane

Old Forester's Paristown Hall  724 Brent St.

Lyndon Elks Lodge #2052  904 Ormsby Lane

How to check if you are registered to vote in Kentucky

Not sure if you're registered? You can check your voter registration status through the state's board of elections website.

For subscribers: Gerth: Kentucky governor's debate was a clown show, but it could have been worse

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky primary election: Voter guides for governor, state offices
WATCH WHAT HAPPENS LIVE WITH ANDY COHEN -- Episode 20046 -- Pictured: Lisa Vanderpump -- (Photo by: Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty Images)

Restaurant power couple Lisa Vanderpump and Ken Todd are closing one of their famed establishments. Pump restaurant was featured on Lisas reality show Vanderpump Rules and will be closing its doors after a decade of serving customers in West Hollywood, California.

The Pump Family released an official statement regarding the closure late last week. An exponential increase in rent was supposedly the catalyst for Lisa and Kens decision to wave goodbye. Yet the landlord has come forward with a statement of his own. And its contradicting what Lisas reps have said.

Landlord claims there was no rent increase

The Pump Family tweeted out an official statement that read, Its with heavy hearts that we announce that the lease at Pump restaurant is expiring, and we will be closing its doors on July 5th, after 10 years of beautiful evenings under our olive trees.

Lisa decided to stay open an extra month so her annual Pride extravaganza could be held one last time at Pump.

While we have loved our time operating Pump, to take on another 10-year lease with a huge increase in rent by the landlords, is not something we are ready to commit to, the statement concluded. After successfully running 37+ establishments for many years, this type of rent is untenable.

Lisas landlord responded with a statement to Deadline. The landlord suggested the restaurant struggled since the pandemic. Claims that rent increased were also denied.

Lisas comments regarding the rent for Pump are not accurate. We did not raise the rent and in fact have been nothing but supportive as they tried to catch up on lease obligations including forgiving some rent during Covid, the statement read.

But Ken and Lisa are still winning in the restaurant game. TomTom and Sur are still thriving. The couple are opening two new restaurants in Las Vegas, Nevada.

TELL US  WHAT IS YOUR REACTION TO THE LANDLORDS STATEMENT? DO YOU BELIEVE LISA OR THE LANDLORD? WHAT DO YOU THINK REALLY HAPPENED?

The post Lisa Vanderpump Accused of Lying About Rent Increase on Pump Restaurant by Landlord appeared first on Reality Tea.
Skillibeng

Back in 2021, Skillibeng liberated the runaway hit Coke, which was produced by EastSyde Records. The track caught plenty of attention for its matching video, which saw the fast-rising star performing at the site of a widely publicized plane crash in Jamaicas Clarendon Parish. On Friday (May 5), Skilli returned with Coke Part II, his first official drop since Februarys 16CHOPPA with Nardo Wick. Much like its predecessor, Coke Part II sees him maintaining his position as the hottest in dancehall.

Run the street like motorcade, make the most money, f**k the most gyal, them p**sy them nuh know money, me four pocket stuff up, no me nose stuffy, flying saucer, alien a roll up in, big Glock fi shub in a your face, make a sure duppy, bowl up your face and bore up it, we have the most rifle in a the road bussin, no disturb the road runnin

Back in December of 2022, Skillibeng released Ill Never Die  The Prodigy Edition, a 10-song effort with a couple of contributions from Rich The Kid and Kyoka. Prior to that, the Crocodile Teeth star kept his fans fed with the well-received EP Mr. Universe and a slew of loose singles, including Pree with Popcaan, blessing me with Mura Masa, Whap Whap (Remix) with French Montana and Fivio Foreign, Rain with Shenseea, and More Fire.

As previously reported by REVOLT, Skillibeng explained to On The Radar why he feels he is the biggest artist of his genre.

Im not braggin, but its been like three years now since Ive been the most talked about artist from Jamaica, whether locally or internationally, he said. Ive been the most talked about artist for a couple of years now and everybody wants to know, like, Who this kid is? Who is Skillibeng?'

Press play on Coke Part II below.

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Max B has put producers on notice that The Wave God is on the hunt for new beats.

The incarcerated rap star put the word out via a clip posted on his manager Ty Blacks Instagram page, in which Biggavel requests that boardsmen send through tracks for him to rap over.

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Ayo this the Don Veli, the Harlem native began. Im calling you ni***s out, Im calling out all yall producers. Im bout to get ready to hit the scene in a minute. Gimme some tracks. Get them sh*ts to my man Black so we can wave up. Imma have that sh*t already lined up. We wave up, we go to the studio, we make history. I need waves. Get me loopy. I want that new sound. Out, f**k with ya boy Max Biggavel EMG boss ni**a. Wavy. Max also included the email address where the instrumentals can be sent to in the caption of the post.

The Wave Gods latest message to the public comes as he continues to hint at a possible early prison release on his initial 75-year prison sentence. In 2009, Max B, born Charley Wingate, was convicted of conspiracy related to armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and felony murder. The charges stemmed from a botched robbery in 2006 at a New Jersey motel that left one man dead. The rapper, who was not present at the time of the murder, had his 75-year sentence reduced to 20 years in 2016 after accepting a plea deal for aggravated manslaughter. In 2019, Max B received an additional eight year reduction to his sentence.

In January, French Montana revealed that Max B had informed him that he would be released from prison in April 2023. MY BROTHER WAS FACING 75 YEARS .. HE TOLD ME TO TELL YALL HELL BE HOME IN APRIL!! the hitmaker wrote on Twitter at the time. The post also included a direct message from Max himself, in which he gave fans an update on his whereabouts while creating additional anticipation for his long-awaited return to the streets.

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Check out French Montanas Twitter post below.

MY BROTHER WAS FACING 75 YEARS .. HE TOLD ME TO TELL YALL HE LL BE HOME IN APRIL  SILVER SURFER

Live from the can ? Free the Count ? LEMONADE VIDEO .. Coke Boys 6 OUT NOW ON ALL PLATFORMS ?link in bio pic.twitter.com/KavLaPXS1E  French Montana (@FrencHMonTanA) January 10, 2023

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Stewart-Rhodes-RS-1800 - Credit: AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File

Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers militia, is facing sentencing as the ringleader of a seditious conspiracy on Jan. 6, 2021 to prevent Joe Biden from becoming president.

The government is seeking to lock up Rhodes for the next 25 years. But Rhodes is arguing he should get a lenient sentence of time served out of respect for his history of good works, by which he means  and we swear were not making this up  creating the Oath Keepers in the first place.

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In a court memo filed Monday, Rhodes and his attorneys argue: It is imperative that the Court give great deference to Mr. Rhodes for the 12 years of service and dedication of the Oath Keepers, an organization Rhodes even now insists is united in devotion to the United States Constitution and in service to its fellow citizens.

That description of patriotic service could hardly be more at odds with the facts as presented by federal prosecutors, for which a jury found Rhodes and numerous top lieutenants guilty of sedition last November.

In a sentencing memo filed Friday, the government argues that Rhodes should be punished harshly. The militia leader exploited his vast public influence as the leader of the Oath Keepers as well as his talents for manipulation, prosecutors write, to inspire twenty other American citizens into using force, intimidation, and violence as they fought to keep Donald Trump in office. Rhodes actions created a grave risk to our democratic system, the prosecutors warn, and must be met with swift and severe punishment.

This government memo describes the Oath Keepers as a fearsome fighting force that would have welcomed what Rhodes described as bloody civil war on Jan. 6. The feds argue that the Oath Keepers were responsible not just for joining the attack on the Capitol, but for inspiring others that day. To fellow rioters, the Oath Keepers coordination, tactical attire, and reputation provided an imprimatur of legitimacy to the attack, prosecutors write. A small army was marching up the steps of the United States Capitol.

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Yet in his answer to the governments claims, Rhodes and his attorneys argue that the militia leader should receive leniency for his public service. Perhaps defensibly, this includes Rhodes career in the military; he was discharged honorably after getting injured during paratrooper training.

Delusionally, Rhodes argues that founding the Oath Keepers militia should be seen as similarly honorable: The facts show that the Oath Keepers were dedicated to civic service during calamitous events, be they natural disasters or dangerous and violent riots. It adds: The Oath Keepers aided all Americans.

The militia founder refers to the Oath Keepers inflammatory practice of showing up armed in tense situations, including the aftermath of hurricane Katrina and the uprising in Ferguson, Missouri. In addition, Rhodes touts that the Oath Keepers provided voluntary security for speakers and the public at large at sometimes-violent venues. (In reality, the Oath Keepers teamed up with groups like the Proud Boys to intimidate protesters of anti-democracy events like Stop the Steal rallies.)

Rhodes attorneys argue that the militias actions not only qualify as public service but in fact go above and beyond what is customarily considered community good works by judges in offering lenient prison sentences.

In a document full of gaslighting and absurdity, Rhodes includes a line about which all parties  both fans and foes of the violent militia  can certainly agree: The character of the Oath Keepers reflects the character of the man who created it.

Rhodes is expected to be sentenced on May 25.

Read the convicted militia leaders sentencing memo below:

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Click here to read the full article.
A damaged vehicle sits at the site of a deadly collision near a bus stop in Brownsville, Texas, on May 7, 2023.

Seven people were killed and up to six were injured Sunday after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a city bus stop outside of a migrant shelter in the border city of Brownsville, Texas, police said. Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval said the crash happened about 8:30 a.m.

Shelter director Victor Maldonado of the Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center said he reviewed the shelters surveillance video on Sunday morning after receiving a call about the crash. The city bus stop is across the street from the shelter and is not marked. There was no bench, and people waiting there were sitting along the curb, Maldonado said. He said most of the victims were Venezuelan men.

What we see in the video is that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about a 100 feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop, Maldonado said.

He said the SUV flipped after running up on the curb and continued moving for about 200 feet (about 60 meters). Some people who were walking on the sidewalk about 30 feet away from the main group were also hit, Maldonado said.

The Ozanam shelter is the only overnight shelter in the city of Brownsville and manages the release of thousands of migrants from federal custody. Brownsville has long been an epicenter for migration across the U.S.-Mexico border, and it has become a key location for next weeks ending of the pandemic-era border restrictions known as Title 42.

Sandoval told KRGV-TV that authorities are investigating whether the crash was intentional or an accident. They are also testing the driver, who was held at the scene by witnesses, for intoxication.

Maldonado said the center had not received any threats before the crash, but they did afterwards.

Ive had a couple of people come by the gate and tell the security guard that the reason this happened was because of us, Maldonado said.

The shelter can hold 250, but many who arrive leave the same day. In the last several weeks, an uptick in border crossings prompted the city to declare an emergency as local, state and federal resources coordinated the enforcement and humanitarian response.

In the last two months, weve been getting 250 to 380 a day, Maldonado said.

While the shelter offers migrants transportation during the week, they are also free to use the citys public transportation.

Some of them were on the way to the bus station, because they were on their way to their destination, the director said.

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It's the best way to relive your travels.

Kailey Whitman/Travel + Leisure

Whenever I grab a pinch of salt while cooking, I think about the road trip my mom and I took to Burlington, Vermont, right after I graduated from college. When I drink my morning coffee, I reflect on the first weekend my boyfriend and I spent together in upstate New York. And when I reach for a pen at my desk, Im reminded of another mother-daughter vacation to Copenhagen. Its not just because I have a really good memory  its because my home is filled with thoughtful souvenirs.

Most of my travel itineraries revolve around restaurants, bars, and coffee shops  mainly because Im a far more pleasant traveler when Im well-fed and caffeinated. But local shops and flea markets always make their way on my list of trip must-dos. In part because theyre a great way to understand a culture more deeply, but also because Im constantly on the hunt for a good souvenir.

When I look around my home now, and the physical representations of my travels Ive filled it with, Im reminded of the souvenirs I eyed  and begged my parents to buy, with a middling success rate  as a child. Think stuffed animals, bags of polished rocks, and miniature license plates with my name on them. The items themselves might not have had much sentimental value, but it was more about what they represented. These little trinkets  whether they were a ridiculously shiny gold-tone Eiffel Tower keychain or a magnet in the shape of Florida  said, "I was there."

Whenever I returned home, the knickknacks would usually find themselves on a shelf or in my closet, and I wouldnt give them much thought after getting back into my routine. Thats why now, as an adult, Ive found that souvenirs in the form of items I actually use daily are much more valuable to me.

Thats not to say I dont love the occasional novelty sweatshirt or bumper sticker, but I tend to buy goods made by local artisans and designers: ceramics, glassware, home linens, clothing, etc. My salt dish from Burlington, my mug from upstate New York, and my ceramic vase from Copenhagen are just a few of the items Ive purchased as functional souvenirs. At this point, theyve been in at least four apartments, and I have no plans to leave them behind any time soon.

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Kailey Whitman/Travel + Leisure

On a recent trip to Mexico City, I was on a mission to come home with meaningful souvenirs. I knew I wanted to bring something home that I could remember this trip by  the first big trip I took with friends since the pandemic began.

While browsing a clothing store in the Roma Norte neighborhood, we stumbled upon a rack of silk dresses from a local designer Carla Alfonsina. (She is an illustrator and tattoo artist, and the dresses feature her own drawings.) We crowded in the small dressing room, trying on two different printed versions of the dress, helping each other tie the silk straps in the back and elbowing each other to get a look in the mirror. It was dumb luck  the dresses fit each of us and our styles perfectly.

We each bought one. None of us live in the same city, so well never run into the issue of wearing our matching dresses at the same time and place. (Although, I like to think of us unintentionally wearing them together from across the country.) Ill be reminded of that charming shop, that beautiful day, and my wonderful friends every time I wear it.

For me, travel is about being present. Its about, briefly, leaving my life at home and immersing myself in a different world. When Im back at home, though, Im able to recapture some of those feelings thanks to my souvenirs. Even if just for a moment, I can transport myself back to Burlington, Copenhagen, or Mexico City, just by reaching for a pinch of salt, grabbing a pen, or slipping on a dress.

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Palace and New Balance create a cross-continental alliance with the release of its latest collaboration.

Although the sneaker brand was born and bred in Boston, its roots in the United Kingdom go back to the '80s with the introduction of its first British factory. Meanwhile, Palace has served as a sartorial innovator in British streetwear since 2009, resulting in a match-made in heaven.

The two powerhouses have come together to drop a retro-inspired collection of sneakers and apparel. Taking visual cues from New Balance's Made In UK 991 silhouette, the co-branded shoe arrives in two vivid colorways. A purple and teal iteration immediately catches the eye with its ocean-hued ripstop base and grape-colored leather trimmings surrounding the toes and ankles. A supple tan suede grounds the sneaker as it runs along the mudguards and heels, while the Barney-esque "N" insignia rests on a cream body. For an added touch, gridded windows on the back of the shoe reveal cleverly separated Palace lettering. Joining it is a black, grey, pink and purple option. Accompanying the sneakers is bold and bright, yet simplistic clothing in the form of colorblocked windbreakers, soft crewnecks and purple and teal T-shirts reminiscent of vintage malls from the '80s, as well as matching hats.

Take a look from the Palace x New Balance collaboration in the gallery above. The collection will be available in stores and online on May 12, 11 a.m. EST on the brand's official online store and in Japan on May 13, 11 a.m. JST on the Palace Japan webstore, and on the official Palace_Skateboards WeChat store May 13, 11 a.m. CST
A much-anticipated documentary about the historical figure of Queen Cleopatra is premiers on Netflix this week. Heres when to watch it.

When to watch and stream Queen Cleopatra on Netflix

Netflix will release Queen Cleopatra at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT on Wednesday, May 8. As usual, the streamer will drop the four installments in the miniseries all at once, so fans can binge-watch it or watch it on their own schedule. Each 45-minute-long episode will follow the life of the exceptional woman who ruled over Egypt 2,000 years ago.

The upcoming drama-documentary hails from BAFTA and Sundance-nominated director Tina Gharavi, whose credits include 2013s I Am Nasrine. Jada Pinkett Smith executive produced the project together with Ben Goold and Jimmy Abounouom.

Queen Cleopatra stars Adele James as Cleopatra. James is best known for her role as Tina Mollet in the medical series Casualty, and her credits also feature Nate & Jamie, Doctors, The Corona Connections, and Acceptable Damage. James is the latest name to join the short-listed club of actresses who portraying Queen Cleopatra, a list that includes Elizabeth Taylor, Vivien Leigh, Sophia Loren, and Monica Bellucci, among others.

More Release Dates:

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A much-anticipated documentary about the historical figure of Queen Cleopatra is premiers on Netflix this week. Heres when to watch Guides Tudor Leonte 22 hours ago

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The Queen Cleopatra cast also features John Partridge as Julius Caesar, Craig Russell as Marc Antony, and Michael Greco as Cleopatras brother Pothinus.

From Executive Producer Jada Pinkett Smith comes a documentary series exploring the lives of prominent and iconic African Queens. This season will feature Queen Cleopatra, the worlds most famous, powerful, and misunderstood woman  a daring queen whose beauty and romances came to overshadow her real asset: her intellect. Cleopatras heritage has been the subject of much academic debate, which has often been ignored by Hollywood. Now our series re-assesses this fascinating part of her story, her political brilliance, as well as questions surrounding her heritage, which remains the subject of debate.

The post Queen Cleopatra Netflix Release Date & Time appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Carmen fled her home country of Honduras in 2015, escaping an abusive partner. Like countless asylum seekers, her life was deeply disrupted by family detention.

Carmen fled her home country of Honduras in 2015, escaping an abusive partner. Like countless asylum seekers, her life was deeply disrupted by family detention.

Carmen couldnt sleep through the night for two years.

She hoped she would get rest after spending long days at the Berks County immigration detention center in Lessport, Pennsylvania. But rest never came for the 39-year-old mom from Honduras. Every 15 minutes, the guards would point their flashlights directly in their faces, confirming that the families were still there even though they had nowhere else to go.

The light would wake up everyone, including her toddler son. The cycle was agonizing, and it went on for nearly two years.

Carmen, who is being referred to by a pseudonym because she is an asylee and her family case remains pending, is one of the thousandsofmigrants who has been held in family detention.

The policy began under the Obama administration in 2014, in response to an increase in Central American families seeking asylum at the border. The practice only expanded under former President Donald Trump, who cracked down on immigration with a series of harsh policies. Women and children were held in prison-like facilities for an indefinite period of timein an attempt to deter families from seeking asylum at the southern border of the U.S.

President Joe Biden ended family detention shortly after taking office, but The New York Times reportedin March that the administration was considering reinstating the practice as Title 42  the Trump-era policy that has allowed border authorities to swiftly expel migrants under the pretext of the coronavirus pandemic  is set to expire next week.

The White House hasnt denied the report, even as Democrats have condemned the idea and vocally criticized Biden.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during a daily news briefing at the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House on Tuesday in Washington, D.C.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during a daily news briefing at the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House on Tuesday in Washington, D.C.

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Im not saying its being considered. ... Im not saying it is not, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said after the report came out.

Immigration rights activists have blasted the White House for considering reinstating the policy, saying that the most vulnerable immigrants, including women and children, are at risk. Inadequate medical care, access to legal resources, and maltreatment were all reported at various ICE facilities across the country. Numerous studies have also demonstrated that detention poses a serious threat to an individuals mental health and can have devastating effects especially on young children.

Like countless asylum seekers, Carmens life was deeply disrupted by family detention. She fled her home country of Honduras in 2015, escaping an abusive partner. Even after they separated, he would show up to her house unannounced and bring over men who were dangerous. She felt unsafe in her own home.

Carmen took her son, who was 3 years old at the time, and fled northbound, hoping to claim asylum in the United States. Together, they made the arduous journey, mostly on foot, through Guatemala and Mexico until they reached Texas.

When Carmen arrived in October 2015, she was immediately apprehended by border patrol and taken to Karnes County immigration center, one of the three detention centers overseen by ICE that was used exclusively to hold migrant parents and their children. She and her son were held for 22 days, until they were transferred to Berks detention center in Pennsylvania, where they were detained for 21 months.

Carmen and her son in their home in Indianapolis.

Carmen and her son in their home in Indianapolis.

By 2016, reports of human rights abuses at Berks had begun to surface. That April, a 40-year-old guard was found guiltyof sexually assaulting a 19-year-old Honduran woman he oversaw at the facility. In September, 22 women went on a hunger strike to protest their prolonged detentions.

But things only got worse.

When we realized Trump was president, we lost all hope, Carmen said. We realized that things were even going to get more difficult.

The new administration enacted harsh anti-immigration policies, including holding families beyond the legal limit of 20 days and separating families.

Carmen worked in the kitchen at Berks, washing dishes for an hour or two a day. She crocheted, partook in group prayers, and when allowed, she took her son out into the yard for the maximum limit of 30 minutes a day. They ate the same meals every day: chicken, pasta, salad or ham.

I liked staying busy in order to not think about what was happening, because if you do that, then your mind betrays you, she said.

The children were perplexed and scared, Carmen said. Her son began asking questions about why they were being held. Carmen tried to comfort him, explaining that it was part of the process to enter the U.S.  an answer she was only half convinced herself.

Tina Bernstein (left) and a group of women from New York are at the Texas-Mexico border stop at the Berks Immigration Center (right) on July 31, 2018, to protest the detention of families.

Tina Bernstein (left) and a group of women from New York are at the Texas-Mexico border stop at the Berks Immigration Center (right) on July 31, 2018, to protest the detention of families.

Its hard enough having to go through that situation, she said. But its even harder having to explain to your children why they are in the same situation, especially when detention is prolonged for such a long time.

I felt that I was in prison without having committed a crime, she added. I had not found what I came looking for.

She made friends with other mothers and their children, including some who were deported abruptly. She never knew what her own fate would be.

When you arrive here, you come with fear, and you come scared. And when you end up in family detention, its just very difficult, she said.

With the help of a legal nonprofit called Aldea - The Peoples Justice Center, Carmen and her son were finally released in August 2017. Once outside, she dropped down to her knees.

I didnt know whether to scream or cry, she said. But it was the best day of my life.

Carmen has since found some sort of normalcy. A sponsor took her in immediately after she was released and helped her find food and shelter. She currently lives in Indianapolis, with a new and loving partner and her three children. Her children are all enrolled in school. Shes still looking for stable work in order to support them.

But after nearly six years, the memories haunt her and her son. He brings up their time at Berks sometimes, telling her he never wants to return. The sight of a police car continues to terrify him.

Carmen's son writes a letter for Christmas wishing to be released from the detention center.

Carmen's son writes a letter for Christmas wishing to be released from the detention center.

Her story is exemplary of the experiences that other families have had because it highlights the trauma and the difficulty of being a parent in this scenario, said Adriana Zambrano, the programs coordinator at Aldea. Families and asylum seekers are the most vulnerable immigrants at this time, and they are being used as a very ineffective deterrent.

To bring back family detention would just seem like a political game, and where families and children are the ones that are always losing, Zambrano said.

Parents held in detention have to worry about the effects on their children, including the lack of nutritious foods and space for them to move freely, said Javier Hidalgo, the director of pre-removal services at the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Service.

Trauma compounds daily on the children and the parents, he said. Weve watched them deteriorate, or become more withdrawn. Weve seen children who are very vocal and are starting to become less vocal and more babyish, or infantile.

Family detention wouldnt always mean families were held together, he added, noting that fathers or grandparents would often be separated from their children.

This administration, and whatever administration is in place, needs to take a hard look at whats really behind the desire to [continue with family detention], Hidalgo said.

Carmen still keeps in touch with other mothers whom she met during her time at Berks. Some still cant talk about their time there. One of her friends, a mother from El Salvador, never made it to the U.S. She was deported one month before Carmen was released. She had to be checked into a mental institution because of the confinement, said Carmen.

No family should ever have to go through that. Its very psychologically damaging, Carmen said. We are a family seeking protection. We are seeking to find refuge in a safer place. The main reason is safety.

Related...
Though Sheree Whitfield insisted on The Real Housewives of Atlanta premiere that she and Martell Holmes had "not put a label on anything," her costars immediately called his fidelity into question

Prince Williams/Wireimage

Sheree Whitfield's new relationship is under scrutiny on The Real Housewives of Atlanta.

In the Bravo hit's season 15 premiere on Sunday, Sheree shared some insight into how things are going with beau Martell Holmes.

"Martell lives in Huntsville, Alabama, but I would love for Martell to move closer. Since we met, I have seen Martell every weekend," Sheree, 53, shared in a confessional. "Despite what you see on TV, he's never shown me anything but respect and I'm really happy I didn't give up on love and that I left the door open."

And despite being on cloud nine with her new flame, Sheree's costar Kandi Burruss believed that Martell was an "opportunist." Naturally, this allegation didn't sit well with the couple.

"I guess you forgot what opportunist was," Martell said to Sheree about Kandi. "Your husband [Todd Tucker]!"

Related:Sheree Whitfield's New Beau Is a Hot Topic in RHOA Season 14 Reunion Trailer: 'He's a 10 Out of 10'

The subject of Martell's alleged "opportunist" ways was later discussed by Kandi, Kenya Moore and Monyetta Shaw. While doing so, they addressed allegations of Martell seeing other women.

"The streets say he been kickin' it with some chicks in Atlanta," said Kandi, and Kenya revealed, "I mean, it's a little awkward because he did lightweight try to talk to me  reaching out via Instagram."

"He slid up in your DMs?" asked Kandi, 46.

Kenya, 52, then showed Kandi the message request she had from Martell  though by that time Martell had apparently deleted the DM.

"Should I say something to her?" Kenya asked.

Responded Monyetta, 42: "I mean, you never dated him or nothing."

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Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Despite what the other women thought about her new man, Courtney Rhodes  RHOA's newest Friend of the franchise for season 15  noticed that Sheree still had a "glow" to her. Upon questioning if it had "anything to do with Martell," Sheree admitted, "That could have a little bit to do with it."

She continued, "He's a good guy, and I really have a good time around him. So we're enjoying each other. We have not put a label on anything. We both went into it saying we want to be intentional."

Related:RHOA: Sheree Whitfield Meets Up with Phaedra Parks' Ex-Husband Apollo Nida for Relationship 'Advice'

Glow aside, things appeared to come to a head at Sanya Richards-Ross's Harlem Nights-themed 40th birthday party for husband Aaron Ross. As Sheree and Martell arrived, Kenya said in a confessional: "Why is he here on your arm?"

Kenya later asked the pair if they were "official now," leading Martell to declare they are "officially dating and all that good stuff." Seeing Kenya's wary facial expression, Sheree gave her a look and said, "You're up to something."

Sheree added later in a shady confessional: "Kenya is so damn nosy. Stop worrying about my relationship and worry about whether [your estranged husband] Marc [Daly] is going to take Moore Manor in the divorce settlement  and hopefully he adds baseboards."

Elsewhere at the party, some of the women questioned whether they should tell Sheree that Kandi had heard Martell was "actually been kickin' it with" another woman in Atlanta.

Greg Endries/Bravo via Getty

"Is this actually about the D [for Sheree]? Let it be about the D," Kenya said, implying she hoped the relationship was more sexual than emotional.

"But what if it ain't just about the D?" Kandi asked

Kenya wondered, "Do we say something?"

"Maybe he told her already," Kandi continued, and Kenya added, "That's very possible."

Monyetta mentioned the rumors to Sheree before Kenya eventually brought up the now-deleted DM drama. Upon asking to see the DM, Sheree called over Martell and asked Kenya to repeat what she just disclosed.

"Oooooh, I'm not trying to be rolling on the ground with She-Man over here," Kenya said in a confessional. "I look too damn good in this dress."

Related:RHOA: Sheree Whitfield Shocks Costars, Pulls Off Fashion Show 14 Years After Failed First Attempt

In a flash-forward moment to the continuation of the drama in next week's episode, Kenya shouted Martell: "I'm sorry, did you just curse at me? What did you say to this queen standing in front of you?"

Sheree said to the other women: "Y'all tryin' to create a narrative, which is really f---ed up. This s--- happened two years ago [with Tyrone]."

Kenya then yelled at Martell, "Once a cheater, always a cheater, you f---ing piece of s---."

And with that  and "TO BE CONTINUED..." title card  the episode ended abruptly.

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The Real Housewives of Atlanta airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on Bravo.

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The following restaurant inspections with critical violations were conducted by Richland Public Health between April 28 and May 4:

 Temple Christian School, 752 N. Stewart Road, Mansfield, April 28. Unnecessary persons in food prep or storage areas (critical, corrected during inspection). Two persons not on food staff were observed walking through kitchen during lunch period.

 Outback Steakhouse, 820 Lexington Springmill Road, Mansfield, April 28. TCS foods not being cold held at the proper temperature (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed container of butter in Arctic Air counter cooler at prep table to have internal temperature of 46 degrees. PIC placed butter in larger reach-in cooler to cool to 41 degrees.

 Wilging's Fine Meats, 1391 Lexington Ave., Mansfield, April 28. Ready-to-eat, TCS food not properly discarded when required (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed prepared ham salad to be date marked April 17, four days past use. PIC voluntarily discarded ham salad. Presence of insects (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed live ants along the caulking of the warewashing unit. Continue to monitor the area for continued activity and, if noted, contact licensed pest control company. PIC removed all evidence and cleaned and disinfected the area.

 Taco Bell #30674, 1194 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, May 2. Quaternary ammonium sanitizing solution at incorrect temperature, concentration, and/or water hardness (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed sanitizer bucket by the middle hand sink to have a concentration below 150 ppm. Ensure sanitizing solution reach a concentration between 200-400 ppm.

 Mickey Mart #21, 750 Ohio 97 W., Bellville, May 2. Employees are not informed in a verifiable manner of their responsibility to report information about their health (critical repeat, corrected during inspection). PIC unable to locate signed employee illness reporting agreements. Provided copies of Richland Public Health's employee illness reporting agreement during inspection and PIC signed copy.

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 The Golden Burrito #2, 1740 Park Avenue West., Ontario, May 3. TCS foods not being cold held at the proper temperature (critical repeat). Observed cooked pork in reach-in prep cooler with internal temperature of 46 degrees and date marked for prep on April 29. Observed cooked chicken in reach-in cooler made May 2 with internal temperature of 43-44 degrees. PIC voluntarily discarded 2.5 pounds of pork and 2.5 pounds of cooked chicken during inspection.

 Crestview Middle School, 1575 Ohio 96 E., Ashland, May 3. Food equipment surfaces not cleaned at required frequency (critical, corrected during inspection). Probe thermometer was not being sanitized before and after measuring temperature.

 Doc's Deli, 424 Glessner Ave., Mansfield, May 3. Food not properly protected from contamination by separation, packaging, and segregation (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed uncovered ice cube trays used for drinks in the freezer. Missing and/or incomplete allergen declaration(s) (critical repeat). Containers of lemon puffs and old fashioned cake in the retail grab-n-go cooler did not have list of ingredients or allergen statements posted. Correct by May 10.

 Joe & Mary's Market, Adm. Sturges Inc., 162 Sturges Ave., Mansfield, May 3. Presence of rodents (critical). Observed rodent droppings behind the mop sink in the storage area and behind shelving and ice cream freezer near the walk-in dairy cooler door. Remove all evidence of rodents and disinfect areas; continue to monitor for activity. Correct by reinspection May 10.

 Keat's Coffee - Richland Mall, 615 Richland Mall Drive, Mansfield, May 4. Employees are not informed in a verifiable manner of their responsibility to report information about their health (critical, corrected during inspection). Provided Richland Public Health's (RPH) employee illness reporting agreement; both PIC and food employee signed during inspection. Ensure illness reporting agreements are maintained in facility. Handwashing sink not accessible (critical repeat, corrected during inspection). Observed utensils sitting inside hand washing sink. Presence of live insects (critical). Observed small flying insects in restroom. Clean restroom and rid of pests by May 11.

 Shell #1357, 1357 Lexington Ave., Mansfield, May 4. PIC unable to demonstrate knowledge of cleaning and sanitizing (critical, corrected during inspection). PIC stated facility uses a bucket with detergent, chlorine and water to wash items, rinse the items, and then towel dry in only one compartment of the three-compartment. Ensure the washing process occurs in separate compartments of the three-compartment sink. Handwashing sink is being used for purposes other than handwashing (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed mop handle on handwashing sink. Food in an RFE must be embargoed due to adulteration, misbranding, or baby food or formula is expired (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed two, two-pack of baby food puree to be expired. PIC voluntarily disposed of the baby food.

 Smokin' Bros BBQ, 1041 Park Avenue West, Mansfield, May 4. Quaternary ammonium sanitizing solution at incorrect temperature, concentration, and/or water hardness (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed sanitizer bottle at a concentration of over 500 ppm. Ensure sanitizer has a concentration of 200-400 ppm. Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, TCS foods not properly date marked (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed potato salad and cole slaw not date marked. PIC verified that product as made/opened on April 29. Working containers of poisonous or toxic materials not properly labeled (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed no common name on the dish detergent spray bottle. Food contact surfaces not easily cleanable (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed scissors that were not easily separable for easy cleaning being used for food packages. PIC stated plans to get new scissors; discontinued use of scissors for food packages.

 Pretzelmaker (Richland Mall), 2208 Richland Mall, Space #c-8, Mansfield, May 4. Quaternary ammonium sanitizing solution at incorrect temperature, concentration, and/or water hardness (critical, corrected during inspection). Observed bucket of sanitizer solution in front area to be 500 ppm.

For full inspection details, visit healthspace.com/Clients/Ohio/Richland/web.nsf.

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Restaurant inspections: critical violations April 28-May 4
The astronaut-turned-U.S. senator returned to the Kennedy Space Center for a milestone moment last week, describing the experience  and the state of space exploration  to PEOPLE

Sarah Flowers

Sen. Mark Kelly's visit to the Kennedy Space Center on Saturday was a homecoming of sorts for the former astronaut, who last visited Cocoa Beach, Florida, in 2011 after commanding the Space Shuttle Endeavor.

"I'll never forget the day after I landed the space shuttle in 2011, my kids and I were on a bus leaving Florida to fly back to Houston," Kelly, 59, tells PEOPLE. "I said, 'Kids, say goodbye to Cocoa Beach. This will be the last time you will ever see Cocoa Beach ever again.'"

Now more than a decade later, Kelly returned to the space center, but this time not to pilot an aircraft.

Sarah Flowers

On Saturday, the Arizona senator was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame, a moment made all the more special with the attendance of his wife, former Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, and his family members (including his brother and fellow former astronaut, Scott Kelly, and his granddaughter, Sage).



"Its great to have Gabby and my brother and my kids and my granddaughter here," Kelly tells PEOPLE, "but also my crew members that came back  six or seven guys I flew with."

He continues: "It's one thing to be recognized, but to be recognized by your peers is a whole different kind of recognition."

"I will say that anybody who climbs into a pressure suit and straps themselves to the top of a rocket deserves some recognition," he adds with a laugh.

RELATED: Mark Kelly Opens Up on His Role in the Senate and Life with Wife Gabby Giffords



Sarah Flowers

These days, the former astronaut and retired U.S. Navy captain has traded the pressure suits for business suits and ties. In 2020, Kelly  a Democrat  flipped the Arizona Senate seat held by Republican Martha McSally, easily clinching reelection in 2022.

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Since then, he's pursued a number of ambitious priorities, such as helping to negotiate a landmark deal that would lower prescription drug prices for seniors and backing new limits on lawmakers making stock trades.

He's also made a point of speaking out on gun violence  something that's personal for Kelly and his wife, Giffords, who was shot and nearly killed in 2011.

Sarah Flowers

But he hasn't lost sight of space, saying he's a big proponent of the Biden administration's commitment to the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the lunar surface by 2024.

"I was glad that the president kept the plan from the Trump administration," Kelly says. "I think this the right thing to do  to allow NASA the runway they need. We will benefit as a country from these Artemis missions."

Though Kelly himself isn't on the congressional committee prioritizing the program, he expects he'll be involved in the program in some capacity  or at least watch from afar.

RELATED: Sen. Mark Kelly and Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords Welcome First Grandchild: So 'Proud'



He is, however, on the Senate Armed Services subcommittee that recently heard updates on a slew of unexplained encounters between military aircraft and unidentified flying objects.

"There are things that have been observed from some really sharp individuals  fighter pilots in the Navy, for instance," Kelly says. "Stuff that warrants further investigation."

The former astronaut isn't convinced, however, that the sightings are extra-terrestrial. It's more likely, he says, that the strange sightings are the result of a foreign adversary.

"Whether this means weve got visitors from somewhere else, I'm not convinced of that yet," he says. "Sometimes humans make very rapid technological advancement forward. Think of Orville and Wilbur Wright or Wernher von Braun with the first rocket. Even more recently  think of Chat GPT or Open AI. One of the things we need to do is understand whether one of our adversaries has made a technological leap."

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As for his own leaps forward, Kelly  who retired from NASA in 2011  is for now busy with life in Congress. Still, he doesn't rule out another out-of-this-world journey in the future.

"Given the opportunity, yes," he says when asked if he would return to space. "Will I get the opportunity? That remains to be seen."



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Read the original article on People.
The Olympic gymnast married her NFL player husband for a second time in Cabo San Lucas over the weekend

HEM / BACKGRID

Simone Biles' wedding dress was made complete thanks to one "crucial" feature.

The Olympic gymnast, 26, wed husband Jonathan Owens for a second time in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, on Saturday evening, and her gown featured a high slit in an effort to make her appear taller for her special day.

As she detailed to Vogue, who spoke with her at the Galia Lahav atelier in downtown New York City for her final wedding dress fitting, "Once I looked at the dresses, I was like this is definitely my style. I like the sheer, I like how it fits, and then the little pearl details, I love the pearls. If there's something else I wanted at my wedding, it's flowers and pearls."

Though Vogue noted that Biles was apprehensive to have a ballgown silhouette due to her small stature, the outlet said that the Galia Lahav team informed her that the attire paired with a corseted bodice and a high slit could be lengthening.

"I was nervous about having a ball gown because I'm so petite  but it works perfect," she said. "The leg slit was very crucial. It was to add, in my head, more length to my body. I think this is exactly how brides are supposed to feel  luxurious, beautiful, kind of on top of the world."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

HEM / BACKGRID

Related:Simone Biles Marries Jonathan Owens  Again!  During Destination Wedding in Mexico

During her final fitting, Vogue said that Biles FaceTimed her sister to run the high slit by her. At the time, the gymnast debated whether or not she should bring the slit up more. "The higher [the slit], the sexier  and the taller I look," she said.

Biles also told Vogue that thinking about walking down the aisle left her with many emotions. "This is probably the most nervous I'll be  making this life-changing walk," she admitted. "It's like everything you've hoped and dreamed of."

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RAETAY PHOTOGRAPHY

During the 140-guest affair, Biles wore a custom version of Galia Lahav's Gimaya gown for the ceremony, as well as three other elaborate looks by the designer later in the day. "Kind of dramatic" Biles detailed during a Q&A on her Instagram Story last month. "But you only have a wedding once."

The nuptials featured champagne, gold and white decor, as well as stunning florals, and the couple's wedding party included eight bridesmaids and seven groomsmen. Biles and Owens, 27, even exchanged handwritten vows.

RELATED VIDEO: Simone Biles on Fiance Jonathan Owens: 'He's One of My Biggest Supporters'

Last month, Biles and Owens legally married at the 1910 Harris County Courthouse in Houston ahead of their destination wedding.

For their first special day, Biles wore a gorgeous $119 tiered white gown by Selfie Leslie, while Owens sported a tan suit.

"I do  officially owens ," she captioned a romantic set of images of herself and the Houston Texans player on Instagram at the time.

On his respective Instagram page, Owens shared a similar selection of shots, including more behind-the-scenes looks at the couple saying "I do."

"My person, forever ," he captioned his post, adding two hashtags: "#TheOwens" and "#ItsOfficial."

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Read the original article on People.
The two candidates who remain interested in serving on the Sioux Falls School Districts Board of Education debated issues ranging from budgets and school safety to library materials and South Dakota's recently passed controversial social studies standards Thursday night.

Their debate was part of a forum hosted by the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls League of Women Voters at the Instructional Planning Center, where one of the two candidates will meet several times each month as part of their service on the board if they win the May 16 election.

School board candidate Dawn Marie Johnson (left), moderator Melanie Bliss (center) and school board candidate Brian Mattson (right) prepare for a debate at the Instructional Planning Center on May 4, 2023.

Questions posed by moderator Melanie Bliss and answered by Dawn Marie Johnson and Brian Mattson ranged from specific to existential. Here are some of the highlights:

On their backgrounds and experience in education: Johnson talked about being a mother to her 9-year-old child Rain, her work in the Joe Foss program at Axtell Park in the district and as a social worker, running an afterschool program and working with the South Dakota Afterschool Network. Mattson spoke about his service in the U.S. Marine Corps and his heart for the job and making sure children are educated properly, as well as his experience raising two grown children and having a vested interest in his grandsons education.

More: How much Sioux Falls school board candidates have raised, spent ahead of May election

On what they would do once theyre elected: Mattson said he would have to look into whats going on so he can make informed decisions on what hed like to improve. He wants to bring back the gymnastics program that was eliminated under part of a recent preliminary vote on next year's budget, too, he said. Johnson said shes excited to see the implementation of the community learning centers, and wants to advance the Leaders of Tomorrow program throughout the district.

On the social studies standards: Johnson said she testified against the standards, and that implementing such a large takeover of studies in a regular day will be daunting and a challenge for teachers. Supporting them and hosting listening sessions with them will be vital, she said. Mattson said he agreed with the standards and said he doesnt believe there will be a problem with teachers implementing them into their daily classes. Both candidates said they will look at the budget process to cover the cost of purchasing curriculum to teach to the standards. Johnson noted the cost is estimated at $3 million for the district, and the standards dont align with Spanish immersion curriculum or with the districts use of Chromebooks. Mattson said he would look at the budget and see whats essential, and what could be cut back.

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More: $600K was spent to create SD's new social studies standards. Implementing them could cost millions.

On teacher pay: Mattson said theres a definite pay gap between teachers and administration, that he believes in fiscal responsibility and that he would work toward making that gap smaller. Johnson said teachers are vastly underpaid and she would work with the Sioux Falls Education Association and the budget to find a solution.

School board candidate Dawn Marie Johnson speaks during a debate at the Instructional Planning Center on May 4, 2023.

On childrens access to library books: Johnson said she has a lot of trust and faith in educators and librarians to make the right choices on what children access, and pointed to the districts policy of allowing parents and guardians to question any materials or limit their own childs access to certain books if they have concerns. Mattson said parents should be allowed to choose what books their children have available to them.

More: Sioux Falls schools, Legislature havent bowed to parents requests for book bans so far

On behavior and mental health issues in classrooms: Mattson said implementing more exercise into a childrens day will help them burn off some excess energy and get more oxygen into their brains so they can focus better on academics. Johnson pointed to the districts four different behavior programs and her firsthand experience working with those programs, and also her experience as a social worker in meeting the needs of students in those programs.

School board candidate Brian Mattson speaks during a debate at the Instructional Planning Center on May 4, 2023.

On the citys growth and diversity: Johnson said theres a clear need for translation services in the city and district so they can support various languages among the citys growing population. She also said people needs to take it upon themselves to learn about each other and the communities here, because we have more in common than we dont. Mattson said teachers should be hired based on merit and that it doesnt matter what blood or nationality one has.

More: Get to know the 2 remaining Sioux Falls school board candidates after one dropped out

On school safety: Mattson said he would like the district to take part in the sentinel training program and get more volunteers trained in police tactics so they can protect students. Johnson spoke about her experience creating safety policies for afterschool programs, but said she would also tap into the expertise of police officers and teachers for those situations. She spoke about being part of incredibly traumatizing safety and active shooter drills, and said she doesnt feel like thats the way.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Sioux Falls school board candidates debate social studies standards, teacher pay
Supplies for drug users are seen at an overdose prevention center, OnPoint NYC, in New York, on February 18, 2022.

For the first time, the U.S. government will pay for a large study measuring whether overdoses can be prevented by so-called safe injection sites, places where people can use heroin and other illegal drugs and be revived if they take too much. The grant provides more than $5 million over four years to New York University and Brown University to study two sites in New York City and one opening next year in Providence, Rhode Island.

Researchers hope to enroll 1,000 adult drug users to study the sites effects on overdoses, to estimate their costs and to gauge potential savings for the health care and criminal justice systems.

The universities announced the grant Monday. The money will not be used to operate the sites, the universities said.

With U.S. drug overdose deaths reaching nearly 107,000 in 2021, supporters contend safe injection sites, also called overdose preventions centers, can save lives and connect people with addiction treatment, mental health services and medical care.

Opponents worry the sites encourage drug use and that they will lead to the deterioration of surrounding neighborhoods.

There is a lot of discussion about overdose prevention centers, but ultimately, we need data to see if they are working or not, and what impact they may have on the community, said Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which awarded the grant.

Sites operate in 14 countries, including Canada, Australia and France, according to the Drug Policy Alliance, a group working for decriminalization and safe drug use policies.

In the U.S., New York City opened the first publicly recognized safe injection site in 2021 and Rhode Island became the first state to authorize them that year.

States including Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico have considered allowing them. The governors of California and Vermont vetoed safe injection site bills last year, and Pennsylvanias Senate last week voted for a ban on them.

The grant marks another move by the Biden administration toward what is known as harm reduction, a strategy focused on preventing death and illness in drug users while helping them get care, as opposed to punishment.

The White Houses drug control strategy is the first to emphasize harm reduction, and the Justice Department has signaled it will allow safe injection sites.

In December, the National Institutes of Health established a harm reduction research network to study programs providing services and supplies such as naloxone, a drug that can reverse overdoses, and materials to test drugs for fentanyl, a powerful opioid driving record numbers of overdoses. The new study will be part of that project.

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The newlywed made her way to Windsor Castle in England after spending a tropical getaway with husband Elliot Grainge

Sofia Richie/instagram

Sofia Richie Grainge is shaping up to be style royalty.

After days of spending a sunny vacation with her husband Elliot Grainge, whom she wed on April 22 in Antibes, France, the couple made their way to England to cheer on Lionel Richie as he took the stage at the Coronation Concert Sunday.

Before heading to Windsor Castle's East Lawn where the mega performance was held, Richie Grainge, 24, filmed a getting-ready TikTok detailing her regal look of the night.

"I'm so excited. Get ready with me to watch my dad perform at the King's Coronation. Can't believe I just said that," she began the video.

Unlike her other uploads, which show Richie Grainge doing her own makeup as she gives life updates, this one started off with the star already glammed up for the "special event."

Related:Chic in Chanel! See All of Sofia Richie's Gorgeous Wedding Week Looks

Related:Sofia Richie Shares Photos of Honeymoon with Elliot Grainge Following Lavish Nuptials: 'Husband Trip'

She then gave the camera a closer look at her outfit: a Destree satin maroon set consisting of a cropped blazer with shoulder pads and cigarette trousers. Her accessories included black satin Saint Laurent pumps, large gold hoop earrings and a black bag.

In her full ensemble, she then did a little dance before saying, "I'm feeling good. Can't wait to see my dad!"

The rest of the video includes vlog-like snippets from the celebratory ceremony, including a clip of the "All Night Long" artist playing the piano.

Richie Grainge's date for the night was her music executive beau. In an Instagram Story shared by the four-time Grammy winner, the newlyweds are seen smiling in between Lionel and his longtime girlfriend Lisa Parigi.

"About last night," the caption reads.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up to date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Lionel Richie/instagram

Related:King Charles and Queen Camilla Continue Coronation Celebrations with Windsor Castle Concert

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The large-scale musical gathering, which also included a golden performance by Katy Perry, occurred one day after King Charles, 74, and Queen Camilla, 75, were officially crowned in a historic ceremony at Westminster Abbey.

Attendees at the show included Kate Middleton and Prince William with their two eldest children, Prince George, 9, and Princess Charlotte, 8. After a busy day at the crowning ceremony on Saturday, 5-year-old Prince Louis missed the concert.

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Read the original article on People.
Tulare County's rainy days could soon come to an end as warmer weather moves into the Central Valley.

After a historically wet winter and spring, temperatures are expected to increase by double digits by Mother's Day week, according to National Weather Service.

The week will start with cooler temperatures. On Tuesday afternoon, it's expected to be be six to eight degrees below their typical values for the first half of May in Tulare County, according to NWS.

On Tuesday night an "atmospheric impulse" may create a slight chance of rain in the Sierra Nevada, with snow levels around 7,000 feet. However, below the snow line, rain totals, if any, will be less than one-tenth of an inch.

However, toward the end of the week, temperatures are expected to increase across the Western United States.

By Mother's Day afternoon, high temperatures in the San Joaquin Valley should be in the upper 90s, which is around 15 degrees above normal for this time of year, according to NWS officials. Visalia is predicted to have a high of 98 degrees, on Sunday.

Here are probabilities of maximum temperatures of 95 degrees or higher for locations in the San Joaquin Valley on Sunday:

Fresno - 76%

Bakersfield - 71%

Hanford - 71%

Visalia - 66%

Lemoore - 66%

Reedley - 66%

Merced - 56%

Madera - 56%

Porterville - 56%

Delano - 56%

White water of the Kaweah River passes through Slick Rock Recreation Area Monday, May 1, 2023. A search continues for a man last seen Friday when another man and a child were rescued from the river.

With hotter days, comes the temptation to head to open waters.

This years record level snowpack and warming temperatures resulted in swift, cold water flowing at local waterways. As a result, Tulare County Sheriff's temporarily closed parts of the Kaweah, Kern, Kings, St. John's and Tule rivers ahead of even more water coming down.

"No one should enter swift water without wearing a lifejacket, even when using inner tubes or rafts as they are easily overturned in the swift currents and can be deflated by impacts with rocks and branches," Sheriff Mike Boudreaux said. "Tying a rope to a person or raft and then tying the rope to a tree or any other object on shore is never a good idea. You can become tangled in the rope and could become captured in the fast water."

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Red Cross recommend taking these precautions when youre around water (even if youre not planning to swim):

Know your limitations, including physical fitness, medical conditions.

Never swim alone; swim with lifeguards and/or water watchers present.

Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight and size and the water activity. Always wear a life jacket while boating, regardless of swimming skill.

Swim sober.

Understand the dangers of hyperventilation and hypoxic blackout.

Know how to call for help.

Understand and adjust for the unique risks of the water environment you are in, such as: River currents. Ocean rip currents. Water temperature. Shallow or unclear water. Underwater hazards, such as vegetation and animals.



Officials will monitor water levels and river conditions throughout the summer. When authorities deem waterways safe, access to the Tulare County rivers will be reopened to the public, sheriff's officials stated.

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Tulare County temperatures to warm by Mother's Day weekend
Critics took aim at Twitter on Sunday after graphic, bloody images spread on the platform from Saturdays mass shooting at a Texas outlet mall that resulted in nine deaths, including the gunman.

At the center of the criticism was Elon Musks decision to gut the platforms content moderation team amid layoffs, shortly after he bought Twitter in October.

This family does not deserve to see the dead relatives spread across Twitter for everybody to see, veteran journalist Pat Holloway told the New York Times.

Also Read:

Elon Musk Blocks Top Marketer Who Questioned Twitters Retreat From Content Moderation

According to Reuters, a graphic 10-second video from the scene showed dead bodies, including that of at least one young child, circulated on Twitter. The news wire reached out to Twitter for comment.

In past shootings, social media sites have worked to take down links to such graphic images, Reuters reported Sunday evening. An emailed request for comment to Twitter, which no longer has a communications team, returned an automated reply with a poop emoji.

Another image showed a man, shot, lying on the floor in a pool of blood. The #AR15 shooting resulted. So @GovAbbott and @tedcruz can get money from the @NRA , tweeted retired serviceman Russell Honore.

TheWrap has chosen not to share these images.

The sites lack of content moderation staff had previously been considered a drawback for users and major advertisers who feared very little would be done by the platform in combating hate speech and misinformation. In response, Musk announced hed create a content moderation council.

Also Read:

From $8 Verifications to Mass Layoffs: How Elon Musks Early Twitter Plans Size Up | PRO Insight

There are some who believe that images that graphically depict the reality of terrible events should have a place in public discourse, theres disagreement on whether social media sites like Twitter and its users should be the arbiters of such imagery versus traditional media and groups who follow rules of conduct in their decision making.

I understand where people on social media are coming from who want to circulate these images in the hopes that it will make a change, UCLA professor Sarah T. Roberts, who focuses on content moderation, told the Times. But unfortunately, social media as a business is not set up to support that. What its set up to do is to profit from the circulation of these images.

Also Read:

Megyn Kelly Uses Texas Mass Shooting to Shame Gun Control Activists: Youve Failed to Effect Change
Eight people were killed and at least 10 were injured when an SUV slammed into a crowd at a city bus stop near a shelter for migrants in Brownsville, Texas, authorities said Sunday.

Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval said the crash happened at about 8:30 a.m. and authorities are looking into whether it was intentional or an accident. "It can be three factors," Sandoval said. "It could be intoxication; it could be an accident; or it could be intentional. In order for us to find out exactly what happened, we have to eliminate the other two."

Sandoval told valleycentral.com the driver was arrested on a charge of reckless driving and that more charges will likely be filed. The local media outlet said the crash occurred in front of the Ozanam Center, a shelter for migrants and homeless people across the street from the bus stop.

The male driver, who was the only person in the SUV, was hospitalized for injuries sustained when the vehicle rolled over, Sandoval said, calling him "very uncooperative.'' Authorities have not released his name or age because he has provided several different names, Sandoval said.

Developments:

 Raul Brindis, a Mexican radio show host, tweeted that authorities were working to confirm how many of the victims are migrants.

 Brindis said bystanders helped stop the driver, who was being tested for drugs and alcohol.

Surveillance video shows crash

Shelter director Victor Maldonado reviewed the shelters surveillance video and said people, mostly Venezuelan men, were sitting on the curb waiting for the bus.

"What we see in the video is that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about a hundred feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop," Maldonado said. He said the SUV flipped after running up on the curb and continued moving for about 200 feet, also hitting people on the sidewalk about 30 feet away from the main group.

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Luis Herrera told Valley Central he and his friends were waiting to go to the airport when they were struck by the SUV, driven by a man who gestured at and insulted them.

Brownsville has seen influx of migrants in recent weeks

Brownsville, the easternmost border crossing into Mexico, issued a disaster declaration last month after 15,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, crossed over in a single week, overwhelming border security. In a normal week about 2,000 migrants attempt to cross at Brownsville, officials say.

"Weve never seen these numbers before," Sandoval said last week.

The surge in migrants comes as Title 42 is set to end Thursday. The pandemic-era policy allows the U.S. Border Patrol to send asylum-seekers from certain countries back to Mexico, and its expiration is expected to further increase the flow of immigrants.

At a special meeting Thursday, Brownsville commissioners indefinitely extended the emergency declaration.

"We dont want them wandering around outside," Pedro Cardenas, a city commissioner, said of the migrants Sunday after the crash. "So were trying to make sure theyre as comfortable as they can be so they dont have to go out and look for anywhere else."

VIGILANTES ALONG US-MEXICO BORDER?: Texas bills would shift border patrol to state hands

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brownsville, Texas, crash: 8 dead, 10 injured; driver 'uncooperative'
Days after a deadly shooting at a Texas shopping mall, investigators were combing through social media to discern a motive for the attack. And the Biden administration wants airlines to pay stranded passengers.

 Hey hey! I'm Laura Davis, it's Monday, and this is the news you need to know.

 But first: Around and around they go! These twin brothers have ridden more than 1,100 roller coasters. And they aren't slowing down anytime soon.

The Short List is a snappy USA TODAY news roundup. Subscribe to the newsletter here.

Killer's suspected racist links investigated

As names of some of the eight people killed in a shooting at a suburban Dallas mall began to emerge Monday, authorities worked to determine whether the gunman was motivated by white supremacist and neo-Nazi views. The shooter was killed by police responding to the assault Saturday in Allen, Texas, which left eight people dead and seven in the hospital. Here's what we know.

Authorities haven't released the names of the eight persons killed in the shooting, but some of them have been identified by relatives or other sources. They include two sisters who were attending elementary school at a nearby town, an engineer from India and a young security guard.

USA TODAY on Instagram: "Texas continued to mourn the lives of eight people killed in the 200th mass shooting in America this year. On Saturday, a gunman fired into a crowd at a suburban Dallas outlet mall, killing at least eight and injuring several others. On Monday, authorities sought to determine whether the gunman was motivated by white supremacist and neo-Nazi views. Federal agents have been reviewing social media accounts they believe were used by the gunman and posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, family, friends and an entire community continued to grieve. Visit the link in bio for more updates. : Getty; AP"

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Driver in crash that killed 8 charged with manslaughter

Police announced Monday that the driver in a deadly crash at a bus stop near a migrant shelter in Brownsville, Texas, has been charged with multiple counts of manslaughter. Eight people were killed and at least 10 were injured when an SUV plowed into a crowd around 8:30 a.m. Sunday. The 34-year-old driver was charged with eight counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda said. Live updates.

Emergency personnel respond to a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Several migrants were killed after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter.

Mass killings in the US are on a record pace: In a given year, the U.S. typically sees six mass shootings in a public place, and the most the country has ever witnessed was 10 in a year, according to Northeastern University professor James Alan Fox. There have been 22 mass killings  all shootings  in 2023, defined as four or more people killed, not including the perpetrator. Dig deeper: How many mass shootings in 2023?

What everyone's talking about

The Short List is free, but several stories we link to are subscriber-only. Consider supporting our journalism and become a USA TODAY digital subscriber today.

Biden wants airlines to pay stranded passengers

Stranded because of a canceled flight? President Joe Biden wants to make sure you're covered. Biden said Monday that his administration will write new regulations that will require airlines to compensate air travelers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the airlines control. The compensation would be in addition to ticket refunds when the airline is at fault for a flight being canceled or significantly delayed. Here's what to know.

Ukraine shoots down dozens of drones over Kyiv

As air raid alarms sounded in the pre-dawn hours across Kyiv, a Russian air assault on the city was swatted aside Monday when the Ukraine military shot down all 35 Iranian-made drones. But their fiery, shattered remnants injured residents and damaged vehicles, the Ukraine Air Force said. Mayor Vitali Klitschko called the drone attack the most severe assault on Ukraine's capital since the start of the war. Here's the latest.

Secret tech cut out of American tanks sent to Ukraine for fear of Russian capture.

Local residents stand next to a building that was damaged in the night, following Russian shelling in Komyshevakha, Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, Monday, May 8, 2023.

A break from the news

Laura L. Davis is an Audience Editor at USA TODAY. Send her an email at laura@usatoday.com or follow along with her adventures  and misadventures  on Twitter. Support quality journalism like this? Subscribe to USA TODAY here.

This is a compilation of stories from across the USA TODAY Network. Want this news roundup in your inbox every night? Subscribe to the newsletter here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Allen, Texas mass shooting, Biden airline rules, Ukraine: Monday's news
"At the beginning of every season we would spend a week in Washington, D.C., and this unbelievable parade of experts would come through from the political world and foreign policy and journalists and generals and ambassadors," Cahn explained to Tudum.

"And when the first [ambassador] came in and sat down and talked to us, she just blew my mind. She looked so polite and unassuming, and if you had told me she was a librarian, I would've believed you. And then she starts talking about what her career has looked like and it's just breathtaking. The stories are breathtaking and very action-packed and very Carrie Mathison, and nobody knows about them. Those jobs, when done right, are completely invisible."

"And all we ever hear about it is like, 'Oh, ambassadors, they go and they drink champagne in fancy places,' and it's so much that's hidden. And not necessarily hidden, but has not before been very much of interest in the public. And I just felt like this woman is a superhero in a pantsuit. She's running around saving the world and dodging bullets and doing it all with a china teacup in her hand. And I just didn't see it coming. And I thought, 'Well, that's a possibility.'"
Alabama softball ended the regular season on a high note, thanks to Montana Fouts picking up two wins in a series win at Ole Miss, but they squandered a chance for the sweep in the final inning on Sunday.

For the second time this season, Fouts threw a perfect game on Friday in a 9-0 win over the Rebels. It was the most runs scored by the No. 14 Crimson Tide (38-17, 14-10 SEC) in SEC play. Fouts continued her dominance on Saturday and, paired with seventh-inning heroics from Jenna Johnson, Alabama was able to escape with a 3-1 win. Johnson hit the go-ahead three-run home run in the Tide's final at-bat.

On Sunday, Alabama did not survive a late comeback by the Rebels, losing 5-4 as it allowed four runs in the seventh. The Crimson Tide now awaits its SEC Tournament seeding and opponent.

MONTANA FOUTS: How Alabama softball ace Montana Fouts is finding new heights, inspiration in fifth season

SOFTBALL AND MAGIC: Alabama softball magic? Emma Broadfoot's secret talent will leave you speechless

Tide falter late on Sunday

Everything was going Alabama's way on Sunday, leading 4-1 and needing only three outs to get the sweep. Jaala Torrence, however, allowed back-to-back home runs to start the bottom of the seventh inning. Fouts entered in relief and got the first out but allowed two runners on base. Back-to-back hits brought in the final two runs needed to complete the comeback.

Fouts perfect Friday

Fouts held an opponent hitless three times this season, twice coming in perfect games. The latest was Friday, when she needed only 67 pitches to get through 18 batters, ending with six strikeouts. She started again in Game 2 and got the hitless streak up to 29 batters, including last Sunday against LSU and a shutout streak of 24 innings dating back to the Auburn series.

Fouts has eight shutouts in SEC play. Against ranked teams and SEC opponents, she has allowed 41 runs over 150 innings. In SEC play, she holds a 1.06 ERA in her starts, allowing 63 hits with 142 strikeouts.

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Offense starts hot

Going into Friday, the Crimson Tide had not scored more than six runs in a game in SEC play, but had five after two innings in the series opener. They got for more in the sixth inning to end that game. Larissa Preuitt went 4-for-4 with two RBIs, with Bailey Dowling getting three RBIs. Preuitt went 8-for-10 on the weekend.

Saturday was a bit of a different story, with the offense getting three hits and no runs through six innings. That changed with Alabama getting three hits and three runs in its final at-bat thanks to the Johnson home run.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Montana Fouts perfect game leads Alabama softball series win at Ole Miss
April 10, 2023; New Albany, OH USA: Large cranes are evident on the Intel chip manufacturing site in New Albany, OH on April 10, 2023. Mandatory Credit: Doral Chenoweth-The Columbus Dispatch

Construction of Intel's two plants in New Albany is entering a new phase with the semiconductor company saying that it expects to begin pouring concrete this month for the foundation for the $20 billion project called Ohio One.

Intel is proud of the progress were making in Ohio and were excited to move into this next phase of construction," the company said in a statement. "Being a good neighbor to the New Albany and surrounding communities, who have welcomed us so warmly, is a top priority for Intel. As Ohio One progresses, we will be transparent and remain in close contact with the community, local government, and partners at all times.

Intel has hired engineering and construction giant Bechtel to build the factories.

Concrete is made on site. Intel says the work may mean additional truck traffic along Beech Road and Jug Street in the area of the plant with dump trucks bringing aggregate and other material to the site as work on the foundation ramps up.

This year so far, focus of the construction has been mostly focused on the underground utility work at the site along with water and sewer lines in the area, said Mike Knisley, secretary-treasurer of the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council.

Now construction is shifting to the inside of the perimeter where the plants are being built, he said.

Concrete work likely will continue throughout the summer to get the foundation in place, he said.

"It's been slow but steady," he said.

Once the foundation is in place, walls for the factories will start to go up, he said.

Meanwhile, the number of construction workers on the site continues to gradually grow.

Knisley said he expects several hundred workers on site by the end of the year and that for employment on the site to top 1,000 beginning in 2024.

Intel has said it expects 5,000 to 7,000 construction workers to eventually be on the site.

Knisley said construction remains on target with construction to be completed in 2025.

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"We're still comfortable with the owner," he said. "We're still comfortable with the project. Management has not let off the gas."

mawilliams@dispatch.com

@BizMarkWilliams

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Work so far at the Intel has focused on underground utilities
MILAN  Gruppo Florence may be known for its rapid expansion and M&A strategy, but there is much more than meets the eye, according to chief executive officer Attila Kiss.

We are not simply collectors of some of the best examples of Italian manufacturing companies; its time now to shine the light on our industrial and innovation projects, Kiss contended. Our goal is to transform the system and the pipeline into something more modern while defending the value of excellence.

More from WWD

Gruppo Florence was established in October 2020 with the goal of developing a platform to supply high-quality Made in Italy products to major luxury fashion brands, leveraging competitive prices, guaranteeing prompt and flexible deliveries and solutions, while safeguarding the technical and cultural know-how of small and medium-sized family-owned Italian companies.

Since then it has grown to own around 24 companies, including Metaphor, which produces high-end knitwear; informal outerwear manufacturers Emmegi and Giuntini; Ciemmeci, a company that specializes in the production of leather and fur pieces; Confezioni Elledue, a specialist in casual outerwear based in Tuscany, and footwear specialists Lorenza Calzaturificio and Novarese.

As is customary for Gruppo Florence, which Kiss said has reached sales of 600 million euros, the founding families have agreed to reinvest minority stakes in the holding.

Sure, the group has acquired so many companies in such a short period, but this is no longer the news, said Kiss, who wants to shift the attention to what is behind the scenes. The true news is, what happens within the group? he said.

The launch of a new website on Monday is in line with this objective. It is divided into four chapters: Officina, Auxilium, Academia and Enzyme.

Officina highlights the foundations of the project, its extensive production capacity, from prototyping to quality control of the different business units, ranging from apparel, shoes, leather goods and intermediate workmanship, or accessories and details used to create exclusive products.

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The pipeline is beginning to struggle to keep up with the brands and their increasingly more sophisticated requests, explained Kiss. Because of the size of these smaller companies, they are exposed to risks and we dont want to lose this precious know-how.

Hence, Auxilium, or help, that Florence provides. Sustainability, for example, has become a key issue and a serious obstacle to overcome for some smaller companies, which are under enormous pressure to comply but dont have the tools, the expertise and the means to navigate through the hundreds of different forms each brand sends their way to trace production. They often dont have the funds to turn to outside consultancy. We have an in-house team that monitors almost 1,000 suppliers, Kiss pointed out.

Auxilium contributes to economic, social and environmental sustainability through the control of the entire production pipeline, and special projects in partnerships with the international brands. These brands cannot map out their objectives in sustainability without the pipelines contribution, observed Kiss.

Academia looks to the future, creating training initiatives, working with schools and connecting the students with the companies, while offering new technology.

Enzyme is an open community of innovators, entrepreneurs and creative talents that work to transform the luxury pipeline, spurring innovative solutions through collaborations to test and expand new initiatives, experiment materials, technology and products, explained Kiss.

The site will speak to potential clients and partners, and people who may want to work for the group, stimulating potential and future collaborations, he continued.

Attila Kiss

We pair with entrepreneurs who understand that we work as a group, which allows them to be faster and protected, said Kiss. There is constant interaction between the entrepreneurs, who are curious and dynamic, and the managers. We want to create a group that is highly flexible. Crafted Luxury Group describes our vision to dedicate resources to brands offering sustainability and digital transformation while preserving the tradition and manufacturing skills.

Gruppo Florence is controlled by private equity fund VAM Investments, Fondo Italiano dInvestimento and Italmobiliare.

Former Bulgari and LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton executive Francesco Trapani is chairman of Gruppo Florence and of VAM Investments.

We dont do turnarounds; the companies in the group are all healthy, stated Kiss.

Gruppo Florence is also earmarking investments of around 20 million euros, of which around 50 percent is destined for the expansion of the operations, production and commercial spaces; 4 million euros will be channeled into technology, and 5 million euros in the strengthening of the production and logistic plans to support a higher level of service.

With the goal to expand production and build new plants to move some steps internally, improving the welfare of employees and the industrial performance, and investing also in machines, the group is planning a number of real estate projects.

These include: the expansion of the production area of Giuntini, in Peccioli, near Pisa; of the Melys knitwear companys site; new headquarters for outerwear company Elledue; the expansion of jersey producers Manifatture Cesari and Pigolotti; new headquarters for Parmamoda, specialized in womens lightweight apparel, and a new production site for footwear company Taccetti.

The group expects to hire 200 new employees, seeking tailors and quality control technicians, operations managers or IT and legal specialists, to name a few positions.

As reported, in March Kiss revealed during the Future for Fashion conference in Florence that the companys destiny is an initial public offering. Speculation has recently been circulating that private equity fund Permira was eyeing an investment in Gruppo Florence.

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KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 14:33 | All, Japan, World, Travel/Tourism, Coronavirus

The government on Monday completely lifted its overseas travel alert for Japanese nationals over the coronavirus pandemic, following the end of the World Health Organization's COVID-19 emergency.

Japan initially issued the advisory in January 2020 for those who traveled to China, setting it at Level 1, the lowest on its four-point scale. The Foreign Ministry expanded it worldwide in March that year.

At one point, 159 nations and areas received a Level 3 advisory, which warned people to avoid traveling to them.

Since October last year, the government had maintained a Level 1 alert, which advises travelers to "stay fully alert," for the entire world.

Citing a decline of deaths and cases involving serious symptoms, the World Health Organization declared Friday that the pandemic no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.

Related coverage:

Japan lowers COVID threat level to same as flu in major policy shift
Influencer Brittany Dawn settles lawsuit over alleged fitness scam (Photo: realbrittanydawn via Instagram)

Brittany Dawn Davis settled a lawsuit on April 25 brought against her by the state of Texas alleging deceptive business practices related to her past fitness influencer business, marking the end of a years-long discussion about what creators owe their follower fan bases.

The 32-year-old, who now posts content related to foster parenting and Christianity on social media under the handle @realbrittanydawn, was set to begin a jury trial on May 15  an unusual public forum for influencers. Neither Davis nor her attorney responded to Yahoo Life's requests for comment.

Information about the monetary value or conditions of the settlement have not been publicly released. The attorney general's office sought penalties and court fees between $250,000 and $1 million.

Background

The lawsuit, which was filed by the state of Texas in February 2022, alleges that Davis sold thousands of supposedly personalized online health and fitness plans costing from $92 to $300 beginning in 2014. Davis positioned herself as a health and fitness expert on social media, even calling herself an "eating disorder soldier," which made her clients trust that she had "special training" on the topic  a tactic not unusual for fitness influencers. According to documents filed by the state, at least 14 of Davis' customers had eating disorders that Davis did not properly address in the "personalized" health plans she sold to them.

In 2018, Davis's customers began sharing their qualms with her fitness plans in a now-private Facebook group called "Brittany Dawn Fitness Business Complaints." In February 2019, Davis addressed the complaints in a now-deleted apology video, saying she's "sincerely sorry for any harm" she may have caused. That month, she appeared on Good Morning America to take "full responsibility" for her "mistake."

Davis took a short break from social media, returning in November 2019 to announce her rebrand to Christianity content  and marking the end of her accountability era.

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"Fitness and health are no longer my identity. My identity is in Christ," she said in the video.

As of 2023, though, Davis is taking a different approach. On her podcast, Chiseled and Called, she identifies herself as a victim of "cancel culture" who was a victim of society's desire to "see an influencer crumble."

"The world watched me as I  got labeled every cringey, false, scathing title possible during the fallout," she said on a March 22 episode. "No one wants to go through a lawsuit  but guess what? It happens. Life happens."

What the settlement means

While a settlement may be viewed as a dissatisfying end to the case, especially after she walked back her apology, no matter what the outcome was, it would have signaled the new precedent of taking influencers seriously as businesspeople.

As it stands, when customers aren't happy with the products influencers have sold them, they are often dismissed for buying into the fictional narrative that social media makes it so easy to craft. This lawsuit from the state of Texas took the testimonies of more than a dozen people who said they felt deceived by Davis and treated their stories with the same seriousness as a brick-and-mortar business. But without a verdict, the case is not likely to have a broad impact.

Dawn has long refused to speak with the media directly about the allegations of deceptive business practices but has teased a tell-all about what happened with Brittany Dawn Fitness both on social media and in her new podcast.

What sets Davis apart

What sets Davis apart from other influencers  aside from the fact a state attorney general stepped in to investigate her business  is that she seems to have successfully rebranded herself in the wake of cancellation. As a Christianity influencer, she now appeals to an audience whose worldview promises radical forgiveness for past actions. At retreats she hosts with her Christian ministry, she preaches refrains like "you cannot cancel what God has called."

Though some Christians have criticized Davis for harnessing the good grace of her religious followers as a "weapon to escape culpability," she's still successful. Her followers on social media have increased exponentially over the past year, negating any loss she suffered due to "cancellation." During this time, Dawn amassed 1.3M followers on TikTok and nearly doubled her YouTube page's subscribers, according to analytics platform Social Blade. But now, a 40,000-member group on Reddit called r/BrittanyDawnSnark monitors her behavior, offering criticism and accountability.

Months before her trial was set to begin, Davis ushered in yet another new era and began sharing foster parenting content. Youth advocate and TikTok creator Kirsta Bowman, who often posts about adoption, told BuzzFeed News she was "petrified for the welfare" of the two children who have been in Davis's care given her history of "misconduct and concerning behavior." Though Davis obscures the faces of the children and withholds details about their cases, she has briefly mentioned one child's medical issues. With such an enormous audience, some expressed concern that it could impact the chances of reuniting them with their birth family.

With a new flavor of posts, it's possible Davis's new content and controversies will be forgotten  or at least unknown to her growing audience. As a foster care influencer, Davis positions herself as a hero, offering her help in a system in need of manpower and reform. As a Christianity influencer, she targets an audience quick to push her past aside in favor of forgiveness.

Though she still posts gym selfies and directs people to purchase the workout clothes she's wearing with her affiliate links, her days of crafting personalized exercise and meal plan PDFs seem to be behind her. But that won't stop her from marketing her lifestyle to an audience.

Is it really so bad for an influencer to learn from their past actions and evolve? That's the goal of an empathetic community holding someone accountable. But Davis isn't just some person. She's an influencer who wields power over vulnerable communities. Since any chance of her being held accountable by the law for her alleged actions has fizzled out, she has the opportunity to craft her own new narrative about what happened with her fitness business and move on unscathed.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, call the National Eating Disorders Association hotline at 1-800-931-2237.

Wellness, parenting, body image and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Life's newsletter. Sign up here.
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As a fashion editor, people always ask me who my style inspiration is, and I never have an answer. I pull fashion creativity from a plethora of celebrities and designers, never attributing a single source. But this past week, I had an epiphany: I do have someone I consistently return to. Who is that individual, you ask? Its none other than Kate Middleton.

Middletons style is full of timeless pieces such as long-line dresses, spring-ready trench coats, and chic riding boots  all staples in my tiny, New York City closet. So when I saw the Princess of Wales step out in London wearing bright-white Romy Jimmy Choo heels, which look very close to this higher version, I was ecstatic, as I own a variation of these staple heels already.

Shop Kate Middleton-Inspired White Heels



All eyes are currently on the royal family, as King Charles coronation swept the world off their feet on Saturday. So the fact that Middleton opted for this major 2023 shoe trend speaks volumes. It makes sense, as her crisp, white shoes  similar to these Sam Edelamn Bianka Slingback Pumps  draw passerbys eyes with their chic and lively style.



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What makes these little white heels so iconic is that they pair with nearly everything. Make like Middleton by opting for a vibrant red coat or coordinating a pair alongside classic blue jeans. There are also so many ways to personalize this trend by reaching for a closed-toe option, like the princess, or securing an open-toed sandal, like me.



The aforementioned sandal I own is from Lifestride, and I cant get enough of the block heel, square toe, and various straps. The color (er, lack of) makes them a versatile staple Ive been able to wear nearly everywhere. Ive dressed them up to attend banquets and even paired them with jeans for a stroll throughout the city. But Im most in love with how the white color reflects the sunlight, creating a dazzling effect with each step, thus making them a spring and summer must-have.



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If youre eager to try your hand (or, foot?) at the optic white shoe trend, shop Middleton-inspired options above starting at $28. Youll be emulating true royal fashion in no time and will undoubtedly be the talk of every spring and summer soiree from here on out.



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Construction of a $286 million pipeline to bring Lake Michigan water to Waukesha is underway. Here's what you need to know about this important public works project.

What will the pipeline do?

The 35-mile long pipeline will pump Lake Michigan water to Waukesha homes and business in order to replace the radium contaminated groundwater. Treated wastewater will be returned to the lake via the Root River.

How much will the pipeline cost?

The project will cost $286 million. Waukesha Water Utility ratepayers will see typical monthly bills go from $95 a month last year to $155 by 2027.

What is the Great Water Alliance?

The Great Water Alliance refers to the seven communities that the pipeline is going through.

What is S.J. Louis Construction Inc.?

S.J. Louis is a Minnesota-based national construction company that specializes in underground utility construction. It has done work throughout the country and is the lead contractor on pipeline project.

Have there been any problems during construction?

Yes. Officials say the pipeline is being constructed properly and should work without a problem. However, regulators including the state Department of Natural Resources and OSHA have repeatedly cited S.J. Louis.

When will the pipeline be completed?

The pipeline is scheduled to be completed by Sept. 1

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What to know about $286 million Lake Michigan-Waukesha water pipeline
Mango is throwing its support behind the Pakistan Accord, the first expansion of the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry outside Bangladesh.

The Spanish retailer was one of the first signatories of the original Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, a binding agreement designed to protect garment workers in the aftermath of the deadly Rana Plaza collapse, which killed more than 1,100 people a decade ago. Mango, whose labels were found among the rubble, had contracted one of the factories in the complex to produce samples of polo shirts and other goods. It would later contribute to the $40 million Rana Plaza Donors Trust Fund to compensate victims and their families.

More from Sourcing Journal

The Accord, in all of its iterations, Mango said, has defined a route map for improving the health and safety conditions of factory workers. It requires signatories to actively participate in the inspection and remediation of fire, structural and boiler hazards or face potential enforcement in a court of law if arbitration fails. Despite conducting 56,000 fire, electrical, and building safety inspections at more than 2,400 factories since 2013, however, the Accord has never come to that.

The high-street staples support of the agreement, Mango noted, is part of its Sustainable Vision 2030 sustainability strategy, which seeks to take one step further in its journey to reduce the environmental and social impact of its products and operations by promoting product, people and planet.

The Zara rival, which publicly lists its suppliers down to Tier 3, works with more than 50 facilities in Pakistan, including denim mills such as Artistic Milliners, Crescent Bahuman and Soorty.

At Mango, we firmly believe in the transformative power of collaboration, which is why we consider it necessary to join forces with other companies in the Pakistan Accord, said CEO Toni Ruiz. We are delighted that these types of agreement are being extended to new countries, since it represents a major step forward in our journey towards greater protection in textile and garment factories. As a company committed to its surroundings, we will continue working to generate a positive impact on our communities.

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More than 50 brands and retailers have added their names to the Pakistan Accord since January, according to the International Accord secretariat, which expects more to follow in the following weeks. Together, the International Accords 187 brand signatories source more than $2.6 billion worth of garments and textiles from Pakistan. The secretariat said it expects all 110 signatories with operations in the country to eventually participate, covering 500 to 700 facilities and tens of thousands of workers.

Last week, members of the Accord Steering Committee, including Bestseller, C&A, H&M Group, Zara owner Inditex, Otto Group and Calvin Klein parent PVH Corp., urged more brands to sign the Pakistan Accord and join us in our collective commitment to raise safety standards at supplier factories in Pakistan.

Other companies backing the Pakistan Accord include Adidas, American Eagle Outfitters, Asos, Boohoo Group, Marks & Spencer, Puma, Uniqlo owner Fast Retailing and, more recently, Hugo Boss.

Click here to read the full article.
Use it as an aperitif, or to add sweet, fruity flavor to cocktails.

Brent Hofacker / Getty Images

For centuries, pisco has caused a debate: Is it Peruvian or Chilean? Both South American countries claim the brandy-like distilled wine as their national spirit, but they are producing entirely different versions. Most of the pisco we see nowadays in the United States comes from Peru, despite the majority of the overall production being produced in Chile, explains Sebastian Tollius, beverage director of Eleven Madison Park, who incorporates pisco in a variety of ways on the Michelin-starred restaurants seasonal cocktail lists. Similar to how there has been a rise in mezcal, pisco is also becoming more popular  and you can see a lot of connections between the two spirits, since theyre driven by terroir and the varietal of grapes or agave, in the case of mezcal.

This is a spirit meant to be sipped or stirred into cocktails. But if your knowledge of pisco starts and ends with the Pisco Sour, heres what you need to know about the South American spirit.

What is Pisco?

Piscos name and history is as muddled as its cultural identity. One story goes that in the 1600s, one of the last ports ships stopped to refuel was Pisco, in Perus Ica region, about four hours south of Lima. The spirit, called aquardiente de uva at the time, was exported from the port of Pisco, and later named after it. Peruvian pisco, which was consumed a lot on the U.S. west coast at the time, was competing with whiskey  its history in America is quite old, explains Lima-born Ricardo Zarate, chef, restaurateur, and author of the cookbook The Fire of Peru, adding that it was in San Francisco where Pisco Punch was invented.

Crafted from distilled grape juice, pisco is similar to grappa and cognac. I wouldnt say pisco is a brandy, because its not aged  its a white spirit, notes Emanuele Balestra, bar manager of Bar du Fouquet's at Hotel Barriere Le Majestic in Cannes, France. Id call it an eau-de-vie.

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Related:How to Find the Best Wines from Chile

How is Pisco made?

Similar to Champagne, you can only call the spirit pisco if its made in one of Perus five coastal valley regions  Ica, Lima, Arequipa, Moquegua, or Tacna  or in Chiles Copiapo, Huasco, Elqui, Limari, or Choapa valleys. Both Peru and Chile call the spirit pisco in their respective countries, but once exported to the other, its renamed aguardiente, or firewater.

Pisco falls into three categories: Puro, a single-grape varietal; Acholado, a blend of varietals; and Mosto Verde, a sweeter, lower-proof pisco that is distilled before the fermentation process finishes. Mosto Verde is praised among producers and tasters as a product to drink on its own as a digestif, since it uses almost twice as many grapes as traditional pisco, says Peruvian chef Diego Munoz of POPULAR at the PUBLIC Hotel in New York.

Peruvian pisco  which is never aged in oak  can only be made from eight grape varieties: Quebranta, Mollar, Uvina, Negra Criolla, Moscatel, Italia, Albilla, and Torontel. Its single-distilled and distilled to proof (between 38% to 48% ABV), which means producers can't add water after distillation like they would for other spirits, explains Lee Rosli, bar manager of Singapores Underdog Inn.

Pisco must rest for a minimum of three months in a nonreactive container. Producers used to use elongated clay pitchers known as botijas (or more informally as piscos), but most now use stainless steel or glass. By law, pisco bottles cannot carry an age statement (months or years) or a certain vintage, however, as with wine, different harvests can produce different results, says Rosli.

Chiles rules are a bit looser: pisco can be aged in oak barrels (typically American, French, or Chilean rauli wood), use up to 14 different types of grapes, and be distilled multiple times. Some distillers will add the must or fermented must to change the complexity of the spirit, explains Mitch Mandujano, bar manager of Basque-inspired Ernesto's in Manhattans Lower East Side. And both countries use copper pot stills during the distillation process, but Chile strays off using other boutique-style methods.

What does Pisco taste like?

Pisco differs depending on the type of grape used, but the dominant notes are aromatically floral and herbaceous. The non-aromatic Peruvian Quebranta grape  the original Pisco variety and most widely used in pisco production today  is complex, and the taste is often compared to grappa.

Many producers are distilling single-varietal spirits and Mosto Verdes to showcase the flavors in different aromatic grapes, such as Italia and Torontel, and are incredibly complex sipping spirits, says Bryan Schneider, bar director at Quality Branded, who won Pisco 1615s cocktail challenge with a variation of an Old Fashioned. I think I surprised the judges because pisco is usually associated with tropical or citrus flavors, but showcasing the right single-varietal spirit in a simple aromatic cocktail like an Old Fashioned is an interesting way to highlight those unique flavors.

How to drink Pisco



Pisco is versatile enough to be an aperitif, as its commonly enjoyed in Peru, but it can also be paired with seafood or tapas. Its a delicate spirit, so if youre having it neat, its meant to be sipped, not downed as a shot. What I love about using pisco over other spirits is how flavors that come through are more reminiscent of wine, with notes of mango, papaya, grass, hay, and, even at times, must or morning dew, says Gabriel Maldonado, beverage director of The Wesley in New York City. At its best, you can also have it neat, and I typically lean toward Moste Verde to sip on.

How to store Pisco

Pisco can be stored for a long time, as long as you make sure its not getting any direct sunlight, says Peruvian chef Antonio Aspilcueta, of Uchu at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla. Store pisco the same way you would any spirit, at room temperature, or in the freezer  which many bartenders and chefs say they prefer, especially if sipping it neat.

Best Pisco cocktails

Here in the U.S., everyone knows pisco because of the Pisco Sour, but in Peru, it seems the locals left Pisco Sours to the tourists, says Schneider. The local drink in Lima is the Chilcano, which is a simple highball with pisco, ginger ale, and angostura bitters, but every bar has their own version or versions, infusing other fruits and flavors into the mix.

Pisco can be a great base for cocktails  even outside the traditional, whipped egg white-topped Pisco Sour or Chilcano  and works well in classic cocktails by subbing out clear rum, vodka, or tequila. A few favorites: Pisco Alexander, a riff on a Brandy Alexander with creme de cacao and cream; a Pisco Smash, mixed with muddled grapes and Riesling; a fruity Pisco Cup, shaken with ice, ruby port, and orange bitters; or Cola de Mono, a play on a White Russian with milk and winter spices. Im looking at classic drinks and taking inspiration from their templates, says Tollius, adding that a simple Pisco Sour can be a great starting point. When you can make new drinks showcasing a spirit in different ways, people find a spirit like pisco to be more approachable.



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Prince Harrys ghostwriter has opened up about the process of writing the Duke of Sussexs memoir Spare, and the comfort both Harry and his wife Meghan Markle provided during the project.

Author JR Moehringer opened up about the conversations and work that went into writing the dukes best-selling, tell-all memoir in an essay published by The New Yorker on 8 May.

In the piece, Moehringer recalled visiting the couple at their home in Montecito, California, and how the Sussexes treated both him and his family.

Moehringer said that when he visited the duke and duchess in California with his wife and children, his daughter Gracies heart was won over by Harrys love of Moana.

As the pandemic waned, I was finally able to travel to Montecito. I went once with my wife and children. (Harry won the heart of my daughter, Gracie, with his vast Moana scholarship; his favourite scene, he told her, is when Heihei, the silly chicken, finds himself lost at sea), the author wrote.

Moehringer also recalled two other trips to Harry and Meghans house during which he stayed in the couples guest house. He claimed that Meghan and the duke and duchess now-four-year-old son Prince Archie would visit him during their afternoon walks.

The author said Meghan, knowing that he was homesick during the trips, would also bring him food and desserts.

Harry put me up in his guesthouse, where Meghan and Archie would visit me on their afternoon walks, he wrote. Meghan, knowing I was missing my family, was forever bringing trays of food and sweets.

The novelist said that the duchess also sent a gift of toys to his children.

Moehringer also wrote how, after Spare was published on 10 January 2023, a friend of Prince Harrys hosted a book party to celebrate the memoirs success, to which Moehringer and his wife were invited.

The author said he was initially hesitant about attending the party due to the criticism that the memoirs contents received since the release of the book. He also claimed that in the days before the party, he and his wife had been stalked and followed by paparazzi.

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Moehringer said he ultimately called up his friend Prince Harry, who he knew would understand.

It was like telling Taylor Swift about a bad breakup, he wrote of the dukes response. Harry was all heart. He asked if my family was okay, asked for physical descriptions of the people harassing us, promised to make some calls, see if anything could be done. We both knew nothing could be done, but still.

The novelist said he and his wife ultimately attended the book party, during which Harry thanked him for all his help.

The duke recently returned to the UK where he reunited publicly with members of his family for the first time since the release of Spare for the coronation of his father, King Charles III. Notably, Harrys visit was brief; he arrived a day before the coronation ceremony and then returned to California shortly after the crowning concluded.
The queen wore the Robe of Estate, which was embroidered with lily of the valley, the same flower used in her daughter's wedding bouquet in 2006.

Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty Images

When King Charles III officially became the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom on May 8, 2023, Camilla was also crowned by his side. Naturally, her headpieceQueen Marys Crownwas the focal point of her ensemble, but her look featured another special detail worth noting: a tribute to her daughter, Laura Lopes. On the same day that Charles became head of England, Laura celebrated her 17th wedding anniversary to Harry Lopes, whom she married on May 6, 2006. To honor the milestone in her daughters life, Camilla wore the Robe of Estate, which was embroidered with lily of the valley, the same flower that Laura carried in her bouquet on her wedding day. Not only did this type of flower make an appearance at her daughters nuptials, but it also appeared in Camillas bouquet when she married Charles in 2005.

Buckingham Palace noted that the crimson velvet vestment had several types of flowers featured in the embroidery, such as myrtle and delphinium. According to People, Camillas outfit also honored Queen Elizabeth. She wore Elizabeths Robe of State, and the embroidery contained many of the former monarchs favorite flowers, according to PureWow. The robe was commissioned for Elizabeth to wear at her own coronation in 1953, People reports. Since then, it has been conserved, and tailor Ede and Ravenscroft have adjusted it.

Related:Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte Wear Matching White Alexander McQueen Gowns for King Charles III's Coronation

Max Mumby/Indigo / Getty Images

When Camillas daughter married her aristocrat fiance nearly two decades ago at St. Cyriacs Church in Wiltshire, England, her lily of the valley bouquet perfectly coordinated with her elegant wedding dress. For her vow exchange, Laura wore a long-sleeved ivory layered silk chiffon gown by Anna Valentine, Hello! reported at the time. Laura tapped the same wedding dress designer as Camila for her wedding to Charles. She topped off her look with a diamond tiara that belonged to Camillas family and diamond earrings. Their nuptials was a regal affair, with other royal family members, such as Prince Charles, Prince Harry, Prince William, and Kate Middleton, in attendance.

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Laura is Camillas second child from her first marriage with Andrew Parker-Bowles. She and her brother, Tom Parker-Bowles, grew up in Wiltshire, England. For school, Laura attended St. Marys Shaftesbury, a Catholic boarding School for girls, and Heywood Preparatory School, according to Hello! Then, she studied art history at Oxford Brookes University and went on to manage the Space Gallery in London and become the co-founder of Eleven, a fine art gallery in Belgravia, the outlet reports. Since tying the knot, Laura and Harry share three children: Eliza, Gus, and Louis.

When Camilla said I do to Charles a year before her daughter, she also carried lily of the valley in her bouquet. The brides posy included yellow, purple, and white primroses with a sprig of myrtle in addition. According to The Telegraph, the arrangement of flowers was a gift from a well-wisher in Cornwall. Lily of the valley has likewise been a popular choice for other royal brides. For instance, Grace Kelly carried an arrangement of the bloom when she married Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956. Then, Princess Diana, Kate Middleton, and Meghan Markle featured the flower in their wedding bouquets, plus other varieties.

Up Next:36 Royal Wedding Bouquets Throughout History
As the Philadelphia 76ers were in the process of trying to make sure they get the right pieces in return for a Ben Simmons trade, it was obvious that their focus was on James Harden.

President Daryl Morey waited patiently for the right moment to strike at the 2022 deadline as Harden became available from the Brooklyn Nets. The Sixers sent Simmons, along with other pieces to Brooklyn, in exchange for Harden and The Beard has turned into an elite playmaker while still showing flashes of being that ruthless scorer.

However, there was a rising star that was on the table in Simmons talks: Tyrese Haliburton.

Per Jake Fischer of Yahoo! Sports, the Sacramento Kings had Haliburton on the table before they decided to send him to the Indiana Pacers in the Domantas Sabonis deal. The Sixers were focused on Harden:

Harden, at the peak of his powers, is still the devastating scorer that claimed MVP honors under Moreys previous roster tinkering in Houston and the playmaker Philadelphia brass held out to pair with Joel Embiid during all those months of the 2021-22 season in which Ben Simmons lingered on the trade block. It didnt matter that Sacramento, according to league sources, had put future All-Star Tyrese Haliburton on the proverbial table, nor the conversations with Atlanta that would have shed Tobias Harris contract along with Simmons disinterest in sticking around South Philly.

It makes sense why the Sixers waited for The Beard to be available. He still makes a huge impact out on the floor and Philadelphia now has an opportunity to win big with both him and Joel Embiid leading the way.

Haliburton would have been an excellent addition as he also can score and make plays for others at a high level, but he isnt at Hardens level at this stage just yet.

Related

Stephen A. Smith believes Sixers will still fall to Celtics in semifinals Doc Rivers addresses Joel Embiid feeling fatigued late vs. Celtics Woj: Rockets still loom as serious suitor for James Harden in free agency

Story originally appeared on Sixers Wire
The quaint town is an hour-and-a-half from Dallas.

Chad's Media

In April 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross the United States, enveloping parts of the country into an eerie midday darkness. While it might sound a bit unsettling, a total solar eclipse is an incredible experience  you'll be able to look directly at the sun when it's completely covered by the moon.

To see the phenomenon, you'll need to be in the eclipse's path of totality. The totality will cross 13 U.S. states: Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, and Maine.

Small cities in the U.S. are some of the best places to see what is being dubbed the "Great American Eclipse" next year. And one of those cities is Sulphur Springs, Texas, which is located about an hour-and-a-half northeast of Dallas. This town of about 16,000 people is a quaint weekend getaway, with a walkable downtown, several museums, and access to a state park.



What to Do

Settled by pioneers in the 1840s, Sulphur Springs was originally named Bright Star. Its name changed in 1871 to highlight its famous natural feature: mineral springs. Unfortunately, those springs have since dried up, but there's still plenty to do in town.

For starters, you can stroll the streets of downtown, where you'll find cute shops like The Bookworm Box bookstore (co-founded by author Colleen Hoover) and fun stops like the Main Street Community Theatre.

Those interested in history can pop into the Hopkins County Historical Society and Museum; visit the historic Hopkins County Courthouse, which was built in 1895; or pay respects at the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial. For alternative museum experiences, there's the Leo St. Clair Music Box Collection at the Sulphur Springs Public Library, as well as the Southwest Dairy Museum and Learning Center.

And for a little recreation, head to nearby Cooper Lake State Park, where you can go swimming, boating, birdwatching, hiking, stargazing, geocaching, horseback riding, and camping.

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Where to Eat and Drink

Leave the fine dining in Dallas  come to Sulphur Springs for some hearty good eats. For homestyle cooking, head to Pioneer Cafe, and for some comfort pizza, there's no better spot in town than Arturo's Wood Fired Pizza Gallery. Wrap it all up with homemade ice cream from the Magic Scoop General Store, and you've got yourself a full belly. And if you have room for a drink, head to BackStory Brewery for a pint or Phinesse Farms, a winery with a store downtown.

Where to Stay

Sulphur Springs has a series of chain hotels scattered about town, from La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sulphur Springs to the Clarion Pointe Sulphur Springs. But for a more boutique stay, you'll want to book a room at The Oaks Bed & Breakfast  a quaint three-room inn just half a mile from downtown.

How to See the Eclipse

The total solar eclipse will occur on April 8, 2024. In Sulphur Springs, the eclipse will begin at 12:25 p.m. CDT and end at 3:04 p.m. CDT, with totality (when the moon completely blocks the sun) occurring from 1:42 p.m. CDT to 1:47 p.m. CDT.

How to Get to Sulphur Springs

We recommend flying into Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, then renting a car and driving to Sulphur Springs.

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When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said.

IronHeart/Getty Images

The Biden administration and the Department of Transportation (DOT) proposed new rules on Monday requiring airlines to compensate passengers who experience significant flight delays or controllable cancellations.

The DOT initiated a rule-making process in which it will look at potentially requiring airlines to offer compensation in addition to refunds and cover expenses incurred during these instances, a White House official shared with Travel + Leisure. The redress could apply to things like meal vouchers, overnight accommodations, rebooking, and ground transportation to and from a hotel.

The new rule-making would also define exactly what constitutes a controllable cancellation or delay and would allow the DOT to examine policies on timely customer service during periods of widespread flight issues.

The DOT also expanded its Airline Customer Service Dashboard, building on the site it launched last year detailing compensation policies for the 10 major airlines in the United States. The dashboard, which demonstrates how policies differ by airline, now points out that no major U.S. airline currently offers cash compensation when a cancellation results in a passenger waiting for three or more hours, and only one (Alaska Airlines) guarantees frequent flyer miles.

The White House official told T+L this type of compensation, which already exists in Canada and the European Union, was shown to result in fewer delays in the EU in one study.

When an airline causes a flight cancellation or delay, passengers should not foot the bill, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement Monday. This rule would, for the first time in U.S. history, propose to require airlines to compensate passengers and cover expenses such as meals, hotels, and rebooking in cases where the airline has caused a cancellation or significant delay.

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This rule-making process is the latest in a series of efforts to crack down on airlines. Last year, the DOT proposed a rule change that would require airlines to issue a refund if a domestic flight is delayed by more than three hours. And earlier this year, the DOT launched an online family seating dashboard highlighting which major U.S. airlines guarantee fee-free family seating for children who are 13 years old or younger.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 14:26 | All, Japan, World

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Monday expressed eagerness to build greater trust with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to "open a new era" in bilateral relations, after they talked in Seoul the previous day.

Following his meeting with South Korean business leaders, Kishida, who made a two-day trip to Seoul, told reporters that Japan is willing to boost people-to-people exchanges with its neighbor to "deepen mutual understanding and develop bilateral ties."

He also said he held talks with members of a cross-party group of South Korean lawmakers promoting friendly relations between Seoul and Tokyo and appreciated their efforts to work "as a bridge" connecting the Asian nations.

Kishida's trip was the first to South Korea by a Japanese prime minister in over five years, and was part of the resumption of reciprocal visits by the leaders of the two countries amid a thaw in ties.

Under the left-wing administration of Yoon's predecessor, Moon Jae In, Japan-South Korea relations reached their lowest point in decades due largely to a dispute over wartime labor compensation.

But Yoon, who became president in May 2022, has been taking steps to improve ties with Japan, such as his proposal in early March of a solution to the wartime labor compensation issue. He made a trip to Tokyo later the same month for talks with Kishida.

During their talks on Sunday, Kishida and Yoon confirmed that the two nations will join hands to tackle growing security threats in East Asia, with fears mounting about a series of missile launches by North Korea and its development of nuclear weapons.

Before hosting the Group of Seven summit in his constituency of Hiroshima next week, Kishida has been keen to make diplomatic progress to ensure the success of the international gathering, observers said. He has invited Yoon to the G-7 summit as a guest.

Last week, Kishida made a four-nation trip to Africa to bolster relations with the "Global South" -- a term that collectively refers to developing countries in areas including Asia, Africa and Latin America -- ahead of the G-7 summit.

When asked by reporters about what was said during Sunday's dinner party with Yoon, Kishida said that they had had a "meaningful conversation over various topics" that he believed deepened the trust between the two leaders.

South Korea said Yoon hosted Kishida and his wife, Yuko, at the president's official residence, where they were served traditional Korean dishes such as "bulgogi" grilled beef and rice wine.

Before the dinner party, Yoon's wife, Kim Keon Hee, took Yuko Kishida to a traditional tea ceremony at a temple in Seoul, as a symbol of friendship between the two nations.

Related coverage:

Japan, South Korea leaders to cooperate on security amid North Korea threat
The Arab League, an organization of Middle Eastern and African countries, voted to re-admit Syria, it said on Sunday, after the country was booted from the group for 11 years after its violent crackdown on civilian protests.

The move by the group to allow Syria back is effective immediately, as the country, led by President Bashar al-Assad, continues to be doused by violence from a long-running civil war.

The Arab League, composed of Middle Eastern and African countries, as well as the Palestine Liberation Organization, promotes political, economic and social cooperation between member states. Members voted to kick Syria out of the organization in 2011.

The ouster of Syria at the time was part of a larger, international condemnation of the al-Assad regime for bombing and responding violently to protests, part of a conflict that has spun off into a 12-plus year civil war between the government and opposition forces.

But the move by the Arab League to allow al-Assads country back into the organization, a move that was decided at the groups headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, signals that the region is willing to reopen relations with the once-shunned country.

The country has faced crippling economic sanctions, including U.S.-led sanctions in 2019, which were meant to put pressure on and isolate al-Assad and his allies. But the sanctions have also plunged the countrys economy, having a deepening effect on poverty and hunger being faced by civilians caught in the middle of the war. In 2021, 90 percent of Syrians lived below the poverty line, according to the United Nations, and 60 percent of the population was at risk of going hungry.

Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said Sunday that al-Assad would be eligible to attend the groups upcoming summit in Saudi Arabia, if invited.

Syria, from tonight, is a full member of the Arab league, and starting tomorrow they have the right to participate in any meeting, Gheit said, according to CNN. When the host nation, in this case Saudi Arabia, sends the invitation, (Assad) can attend if he wishes to.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Reenactors wearing outfits from the mid 18th century fire their flintlocks during a demonstration at the Illinois State Military Museum Saturday, May 6, 2023, as part of the commemoration of the Illinois National Guard's 300 anniversary.

It was a birthday celebration 300 years in the making, one that not even a little bit of rain could stop.

The Illinois National Guard celebrated their 300th anniversary Saturday with a series of events in Springfield, from a "walking timeline" at the Illinois State Military Museum to downtown events commemorating key strategic war victories spearheaded by the Guard to the invitation-only 300th Birthday Gala at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

The official 300th birthday of the Guard will be commemorated May 9 in Kaskaskia, where the very first militia was set up under French auspices in 1723 under the direction of Diron dArtaguiette, inspector of troops for the French Commandant.

More: Buscher sworn in as mayor, saying she stands 'shoulder to shoulder' with new city council

The existence of the Guard dates back more than 90 years before Illinois even became a state, with militia officers being called into service during the American Revolution and the War of 1812 prior to being admitted into the Union in 1818. Lt. Col. Brad Leighton, public affairs director for the Guard, said that the events in Springfield on Saturday were a good way to educate people on the roots of the their mission while continuing to build for the future.

"We're the only military organization with both a state mission and a federal mission," Leighton said. "A lot of people don't understand that and where it came from. How did this unique organization come up with that state mission?"

For the 300th birthday, the Guard made sure that not only people knew more about the roots, but also about all the major incidents that they have been involved in through the years.

The outdoor "walking timeline" bridged the gap between the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror with a look at how the Guard lived, worked and fought during that time.

The Vietnam War took precedence at Oak Ridge Cemetery, where Col. Shawn Nokes, incoming commander of the 129th Regiment, spoke on connecting veterans from that era to those who served in conflicts ranging from Afghanistan to Iraq to Libya.

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Downtown saw representatives from Australia and Belgium arrive to highlight the shared partnerships between the U.S. and each nation and two major events in the Guards history  the Battle of Hamel on July 4, 1918 where American and Australian soldiers fought side by side for the first time and the daring rescue of Belgium's King Leopold from Nazi troops in 1945.

"They stole back a German staff car and slipped through German lines pretending to be a Nazi official and surprised the Germans at the place they were holding the king in Austria," Leighton said. "After the war, anytime he came to the United States, he came and visited his Illinois National Guard rescuers. It took a lot of daring and a lot of bravery to go through enemy lines and rescue the King of Belgium."

In addition to that, booths were set up outside in Union Square Park across from ALPLM that promoted the Guard's many benefits along with showing off some of the equipment. Leighton said that it was vital for the Guard to promote what they do as they celebrate everything that came before.

"COVID-19 really hurt us in recruiting, because at that time, we couldn't get into the schools, there was no social interaction, people were staying in their homes, so you couldn't get the word out on what the Guard has to offer," Leighton said. "The Guard has quite a lot to offer to young men and women  100% state tuition, great training that you can use in your civilian life  Illinois has some of the most generous benefits of any state in the Union when it comes to the National Guard."

More: 'The total package is Ms. Fox': Fairview Elementary teacher named educator of the year

Schroeder said that events like the ones held on Saturday and throughout the month with school-age children from across the state help to provide a sense of what life was like on the frontlines for the Guard over the course of 300 years, with each reenactor bringing knowledge and a wide range of materials to them to show what it was like.

"Each reenactor stands in front of their table and talks about what they wore, how they made their dinner, what they used to fight and how they fought," Schroeder said. "They're always open for questions, so it's kind of cool (that) you get a one-on-one for that time period with the public."

Dressed as a Civil War soldier Illinois State Museum volunteer Paul Golladay, left, talks to folks about some of the things a union soldier would carry as they look over replicas of those kind of items at the museum Saturday, May, 6, 2023. The museum had living history exhibits out front as part of the commemoration of the Illinois National Guard's 300 anniversary.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Illinois National Guard goes big for 300th birthday celebration
Columbus is facing a shortage of college-educated workers, fueled by slow population growth, that affects its economic health.

To address this problem, a coalition of employers, higher education leaders and other organizations are working to bulk up the labor force through a series of partnerships and training programs.

Economists presented an economic forecast for Columbus and the state in January predicting a short recession but strong labor market. The citys slow population growth is an area of concern, said Jerald Mitchell, president and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, during the presentation.

This issue is compounded by a mismatch in the levels of education people in Columbus have and what employers require. There are more job openings for people with four-year degrees in the area than people who can fill them, Mitchell said.

The key to addressing this issue is to bolster the number of area residents who have college degrees. Currently, Columbus residents trail the state average with about 28% of residents over the age of 25 having a Bachelors degree or higher, according to the United States Census Bureau. Approximately 33% of residents in the state and about 34% of people nationwide have Bachelors degrees or higher.

However a balance needs to be maintained when addressing this issue, Mitchell said, adding that officials need to continue to pursue bringing jobs to the city that dont require this level of education since there are a lot of people in the region who do not have these degrees.

More than 4,600 jobs were added in the Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area in the last year as of March, according to the Georgia Department of Labor, with the unemployment rate sitting at 3.8%.

Contrary to the national narrative, college education continues to unlock opportunity, Mitchell said in his presentation. So we have to continue to promote that college degrees, technical certifications and GEDs are going to continue to help people take the next step of their economic progression.

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CSU partnering with corporations for programs

Columbus State University has developed key partnerships with local industries to provide students with mentors, internships and job opportunities, spokesperson Michael Tullier told the Ledger-Enquirer.

CSU works collaboratively with local businesses, organizations and stakeholders through advisory boards to develop relevant curricula and workforce training programs, he said.

An example of this collaboration includes the partnership of CSU with some of Muscogee Countys largest employers including TSYS, Aflac and Synovus to start the TSYS Center for Cybersecurity.

TSYS gave a $5 million donation to start this cybersecurity center, said Deborah Kidder, dean of the D. Abbott Turner College of Business at CSU. Students can complete a rapid workforce development program in cybersecurity, NEXUS practitioners certificate, within 12 months, Tullier said.

Upon completion, they will have four industry certifications, a guaranteed internship in the field and weekly hand-on experience in a cyber range.

In the area of cybersecurity, things are changing so very rapidly, Kidder said. You need to have that condensed concentrated education, so that (students) can go out and start using those skills that arent outdated.

Technology is changing at an incredible rate, she said, so the school is focusing on making sure students are gaining general, durable skills that can adapt with technology.

Fernando Cabello, medically retired from the U.S. Army after 10 years of service, was looking for a new career field as he transitioned from military life.

Originally from San Antonio, Cabello was stationed at Fort Benning as a drill sergeant. When he was in a car accident and was retired, Cabello looked for a program that he could finish quickly and found it in the NEXUS program at CSU.

The group setting is cohort-based, Cabello said. It reminded me of going through basic training in the Army. We start as a group and the group finishes.

Fernando Cabello is a military veteran who completed the cybersecurity NEXUS program at Columbus State University, and is now working full time for Global Payments. 05/05/2023

He enjoyed that the groups skill levels in the beginning ranged from people who were not familiar with working with computers to other individuals that already had some experience with this type of work.

Now that hes finished the certificate program, Cabello is living in Columbus and works full-time for Global Payments.

We had the top brass in the cyber security field from here in Georgia coming in interviewing us, telling us hey, this is where you need to improve and this is what were looking for, Cabello said.

The relatively new program, which has been running for over a year, has close to 100% employment post graduation, Tullier said.

What I find amazing is Columbus, Georgia is a good ole family kind of system here, Cabello said. These industry professionals are, education-wise, 20-30 years ahead of me. I can ask them for help and for advice. Thats not something youll get in San Antonio.

Columbus Tech and trades

While Columbus State works with employers looking for people with four-year degrees, Columbus Tech and other organizations are focused on preparing people for entry level positions and trades.

The college has almost 200 different programs that range from general education for Associates degrees to health sciences, welding, early childhood education and HVAC. Columbus Techs mission is to develop the workforce needed in the community to its greatest ability, President Martha Ann Todd told the Ledger-Enquirer, and the school works to reach this goal by ensuring students have the support they need.

They get quality, industry-approved training at industry level  what they will experience out in the field, equipment and labs, she said. We want them to be able to get a job and enter the workforce, but also build a career.

The school recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for an approximately $5 million project to bring a new facility where as many as 350 new truck drivers could be trained each year. The average truck driver in Columbus can earn about $92,000, according to Indeed.

An economic impact study found that people who earn their high school diploma or an equivalent will generally earn $4,500 more every year, Todd said, and the average income of those that get their two-year degree can increase, on average, by about $8,500. Most Columbus Tech students also tend to continue to live and work in the Chattahoochee Valley region, she said.

While many individuals can attend Columbus Tech to earn certifications in trades such as HVAC and truck driving, other organizations are helping other vulnerable communities in Columbus have access to these types of training programs that can better their economic progress.

From Freedom House to Employed

Earlier this year, SafeHouse Ministries in partnership with Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers hosted a program that allowed men experiencing homelessness to take part in a free HVAC training program.

The organizations have held similar programs in the past that include construction training and electrical training, said Julie Bennett, director of marketing and communications at Goodwill.

HVAC is an industry where a person can make a great living without having to have a college degree, Bennett said. And so this provides a free opportunity for people who are interested to come in and get 10 days of training.

Phillip and Jennifer Hall, owners of P&J Labor Services, interview people during a career fair at SafeHouse in Columbus, Georgia.

Along with learning how to service units, participants were also taught soft skills that would help them have better success in interviews and speaking to employers. At the end of the training program, the participants attended a career fair that gave them the opportunity to meet with potential employers.

SafeHouse will continue to work with participants not offered a position at the career fair for at least a year after the program is over to help them find a job in the industry.

One of the participants, Michael Edwards, signed up for the program because he knew that people who could service HVAC units are in high demand in Georgia, which meant he could be confident the program would provide him the skills needed to find a job in the field.

We had a shortage of apprentices last year, Edwards said. There werent enough people to go around. It was so hot, and I know a lot of people suffer from not having service.

The program was able to provide more hands-on training and mentorship from an industry professional when Phillip Hall, co-owner of PJ Labor Services, got involved after one of the participants, Brian Nelson, informed him of the program after a chance meeting.

Phillip and Jennifer Hall, owners of P&J Labor Services, hired Brian Nelson, center, at the SafeHouse career fair. Nelson was a participant in SafeHouses HVAC training program.

Nelson was an acquaintance of one of Halls family members, and happened to meet him through the connection one day not long after Nelson started the program. He told Hall about the HVAC training program after Nelson learned about PJ Labor Services and invited Hall to sit-in.

Hall was impressed after attending one of the classes. He thought he could help elevate the training by donating a unit for the students to use for hands-on experience through taking the unit apart.

Theyve received really good information, Hall said. ..Its a good start to get them excited about going into the field.

Ultimately, Hall attended the career fair as an employer and offered Nelson a job with his company. Nelsons excitement for the program, willingness to learn and work ethic were what he was looking for as an employer.

Ive been struggling for opportunities for so long, Nelson said. ...So, Im going to take the opportunity that God allowed me to have, and do what Im supposed to do with it.
WASHINGTON  Earlier this year, the Biden administration relented after months of pleas from Ukraine and agreed to send the country its most lethal armored vehicles: the Abrams tanks.But with Ukraine gearing up for an expected spring counteroffensive in its war with Russia, these powerful tanks are months away from reaching the frontlines of the battlefield. Abrams tanks won't be part of the initial spring assault.

That is because the tanks are being modified to remove sensitive technology that could fall into the hands of Russian forces. It is a necessary precaution in case the Russians capture one of the vehicles and exploit them for intelligence, U.S. officials and military experts said.

"It may or may not present opportunities for Russia to do testing on it, and to look for vulnerabilities," said Colin Smith, an expert on the Russian military at the RAND Corp., a non-partisan think tank.

Staff Sergeant Ricora Jones sits in a tank simulator before training with her crew on March 20, 2023. Jones is the tank commander and helped lead the team in the close combat tactical training. -

As is the case with other weapons, the U.S. government sends stripped-down versions of its tanks to foreign governments. The Pentagon reserves its highest-end capabilities for U.S. troops. A complicating issue with sending Abrams tanks to Ukraine, officials and experts say, is the probability that one will fall into Russian hands on the battlefield.

Developed during the Cold War, battle-tested in Iraq

Abrams tanks are powerful, fast and heavily armored. Weighing about 70 tons, the Abrams was developed during the Cold War and the first tanks delivered to the Army in 1980. They saw combat in 1991 for the first time during Operation Desert Storm in Iraq.

For this war, the tanks are painted green, a shift from the desert tan familiar after decades of fighting in the Middle East.

This time around, a big concern is armor protection on the more advanced version of the tanks and how that could be breached, Smith said. Unlike the Reaper drone that Russian pilots downed last month over the Black Sea where it broke up and sank in deep water, a damaged tank might be recovered largely intact.

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The lower-tech tanks the Ukrainians will receive won't have sensitive components that the Russians can exploit, according to two U.S. officials who were not authorized to speak publicly about the issue. Both tanks share the same, powerful 120mm gun, but the more advanced M1A2 has improvements, including targeting systems.

In January, the Pentagon announced plans to ship 31 Abrams M1A2 tanks to Ukraine after months of requests from the Ukrainians. They want modern armor to claw back territory Russia had seized since it launched its invasion in February 2022. A Ukrainian offensive is expected to begin within weeks.

In March, the Pentagon announced plans to speed the deployment by supplying a less-sophisticated version of the tank, the M1A1, saying those vehicles could be refurbished more quickly. The tanks, and armored vehicles needed to recover damaged ones from the battlefield, should be ready for combat in Ukraine by fall.

Meantime, fighting in eastern Ukraine, where the tanks will be sent, has been bloody and brutal. Since December, 20,000 Russian soldiers have been killed in fighting there and another 80,000 wounded, according to the White House. The Russians have also had thousands of tanks and armored personnel carriers destroyed or captured.

Some military officials say the needed retrofitting is not delaying the deployment. Even if the tanks were ready today, the Ukrainians would not be ready to take them into combat, said Army Col. Martin O'Donnell, spokesperson for U.S. Army Europe and Africa. The troops need about 10 weeks of training, which is set to begin later this month in Germany.

Tanks on a fast track

In actuality, the M1A1 tanks are on a fast track for Ukraine, O'Donnell said. It can take years to refit a major weapons system like a tank.

Ukrainian troops will train on tanks similar to those being refitted for them in the United States.

"We're moving as quickly as possible," O'Donnell said.

Sen. Tom Cotton scoffed at the Pentagon's definition of speedy deployment. During an Armed Services Committee hearing April 27. Cotton, R-Arkansas, chided the Biden administration for dragging its feet in supplying Ukraine with weaponry, including tanks.

I think we could supply them faster than eight or nine months, if there was the political will," Cotton said.

Still, some in the military warn that the tanks are not the be all and end-all for Ukraine to defeat Russia.

Abrams tanks will give Ukraine an edge but not the decisive one, Army Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said last month at a meeting of Ukraine's allies in Germany.

"There is no silver bullet in this case, Miley said. "But I do think the M1 tank, when it's delivered and it reaches its operational capability, that it will be very effective on the battlefield."

Related: Just 10 years ago, women were banned from combat. Now, they're on the front lines, climbing the ranks.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Secret tech cut in American tanks to Ukraine, fearing Russian capture
A former teacher in Vermillion Parish and at St. Thomas More high school in Lafayette was arrested on a federal criminal complaint for attempted production of child pornography.

De La Paz, 33, has been held without bond since his arrest according to a press release. A detention hearing was held in federal court with the U.S. government arguing that De La Paz be held without bond until a hearing for charge and presentation of the case to the grand jury.

Special agents with Homeland Security Investigations Lafayette received information regarding a possible child exploitation event that led to the arrest of De La Paz on April 27 for allegedly enticing a minor to produce child pornography/child sexual assault material. During a court hearing, an agent at HSI testified the video obtained allegedly showed De La Paz saying sexually suggestive things to a minor he tutors while working as a math teacher and coach at North Vermillion high school.

Jacob Conrad De La Paz,33, has been held without bond since his arrest

Before coming to Acadiana, he had previously been disciplined in Arkansas for engaging in inappropriate communication and grooming with a female student via text messaging, according to court documents. Records show the Arkansas boards ethics subcommittee hearing recommended his license be suspended for 5 years and be fined $500. Jacob rejected the hearing and requested an appeal.

In 2019, the state appeal board imposes a 3-year probation on his license, a fine of $250, and completion of training courses.

During the detention hearing, the evidence alleged there were over 600 pages of text messages with a minor, and possibly 2-3 other students were involved in inappropriate communication with Jacob during the Arkansas official's investigation. Despite that, he was hired at North Vermilion High School, and then at St. Thomas More High School. De La Paz took a teaching position in Vermillion Parish in 2021 where he was accused of enticing a minor to make child pornography.

"If he was at home in Arkansas, it would be different, this would not have been likely to occur again if he was living in our house," said Conard De La Paz, Jacob's father.

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After cases were heard, a federal judge ruled that De La Paz will stay in federal custody until a hearing before a federal grand jury.

If you or anyone you know may have been exploited by De La Paz, please call the HSI toll-free tip line, (866) 347-2423, or you may fill out the online tip form, or contact the Western District of Louisiana U.S. Attorneys office at 318-676-7600.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Former STM teacher arrested, accused of attempted child pornography
MADISON - The Wisconsin Elections Commission will be ordered to reconsider a complaint filed against a group of Republicans who posed as electors for Donald Trump in 2020 despite Joe Biden's presidential victory in Wisconsin.

Dane County Circuit Judge Frank Remington said Monday he will order the state's bipartisan elections commission take up the complaint without the participation of one of its own commissioners who participated in the scheme to submit false paperwork to then-Vice President Mike Pence and the National Archives claiming to be electors for Trump, despite his loss in Wisconsin.

Bob Spindell, a Republican commissioner on the state's top election oversight board, was sued in April and May 2022 in separate lawsuits over his role in the scheme that included similar efforts by Republicans in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan and Nevada. Spindell and other false electors have defended their actions, calling it a legal strategy in the event the election results were overturned by a lawsuit.

Remington said Monday he plans to issue the written order next week after the plaintiffs, Spindell, and elections commissioners agreed the commission should reconsider the complaint without Spindells participation. Remington's order will vacate the commission's March 2022 decision not to sanction the group of Republicans.

Biden beat Trump by about 21,000 votes in Wisconsin. Trump sought recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties, which confirmed Biden's win. Trump sued and the state Supreme Court upheld the results on a 4-3 vote on Dec. 14, 2020.

Less than an hour later, Democrats met in the state Capitol to cast the state's 10 electoral votes for Biden.

At the same time, the fake electors gathered in another part of the Capitol to fill out paperwork claiming Trump had won. They submitted their filings to Congress, the National Archives, a federal judge and Wisconsin Secretary of State Doug La Follette.

At the time, the fake electors said they held the meeting to ensure the state's electoral votes were cast for Trump if a court later determined he was the true winner of the state.

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The plan was spelled out after the election by attorney Kenneth Chesebro in a memo dated Nov. 18, 2020  the same day Trump asked for recounts in Dane and Milwaukee counties.

The filings from the fake electors in Wisconsin and elsewhere helped Trump and his allies argue the results were in dispute as they tried to prevent Congress from finalizing them.

The state elections commission in March 2022 unanimously decided not to sanction the 10 Republicans  including Spindell  for falsely claiming to be presidential electors in 2020 after receiving a complaint from Madison attorney Jeff Mandell.

Remington is issuing the order in a case filed by the executive director of the state arm of the Service Employees International Union and Madison-based law firms Law Forward and Stafford Rosenbaum against the commission and Spindell that seeks to throw out the commission's finding that Republicans didn't violate election laws when they claimed to be Wisconsin's presidential electors after Biden won the state.

The union's director argues the state Elections Commission mishandled its complaint about the fake electors because it allowed Spindell to participate in its deliberations.

"In retrospect, it was inappropriate for Mr. Spindell not to recuse," Remington said Monday.

Though the initial vote to reject the complaint was unanimous, the outcome of the new deliberations could turn out differently. Two members, Dean Knudson and Julie Glancey, who voted to reject the initial complaint have since been replaced by WEC chairman Don Millis and former Milwaukee County Clerk Joseph Czarnezki, respectively.

Molly Beck can be reached at molly.beck@jrn.com.

Our subscribers make this reporting possible. Please consider supporting local journalism by subscribing to the Journal Sentinel at jsonline.com/deal.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Elections Commission must reconsider fake elector case
A man shot by Larimer County deputies on Interstate 25 during a pursuit from Wellington in 2022 was sentenced to prison Monday.

Dustin Bartles, now 36, was sentenced to 14 years in the Department of Corrections for attempted first-degree assault on a police officer, a Class 4 felony, and another five years in prison for vehicular eluding, a Class 5 felony. Bartles pleaded guilty to those charges in February, and all other charges were dismissed by the 8th Judicial District Attorney's Office as part of a plea agreement.

Bartles was arrested in January 2022 after he fled from deputies who attempted to contact him at Wellington's Family Dollar store. Deputies were responding to a call about a suspicious person in the business's parking lot. Bartles fled the store in a pickup truck south on I-25 toward Fort Collins. Deputies eventually stopped him near the Mulberry Street exit on I-25, where a sergeant shot Bartles, leaving him with serious but not life-threatening injuries.

District Attorney Gordon McLaughlin deemed the shooting justified under Colorado law about a month later.

During a sentencing hearing Monday, Deputy District Attorney Erin Butler read a statement from one of the deputies involved, who said Bartles "showed absolutely no regard for public safety that day. All he cared about was running, no matter the cost."

Bartles has shown a pattern of behavior that puts the community in danger, Butler said, citing two prior eluding charges from 2021 in Larimer and Arapahoe counties. Bartles is currently serving prison sentences for those charges.

Bartles' "flagrant disregard" for community safety "is horrifying," Butler said.

Bartles' defense attorney, Marshall Breit, said the seriousness of this case is not lost on him or Bartles.

"I'm sorry for my behavior that day. I accept responsibility for it," Bartles told the judge, adding that he had no idea why he fled. "In my heart of hearts I never intended to hurt anybody."

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Bartles said he fled because he was scared, and he understands he "put a lot of people in danger."

Breit said this case stemmed from an incident that "quite frankly (was) all about nothing" because deputies were responding to suspicious activity, not criminal activity.

"There were various moments in time when this could have been de-escalated," Breit said.

Bartles said that in the past when he's been arrested, it was during times in his life when he was abusing drugs. He had been sober for about five years before getting arrested in March 2021.

"I know I can get back to that," Bartles said.

Judge Daniel McDonald told Bartles he believes Bartles didn't intend to put anyone at risk but his actions show that even "if you're not trying to hurt someone, you don't care if you do."

Sentencing Bartles to a lengthy prison sentence "brings me no pleasure," McDonald said, but that it's what he felt he had to do to protect the community.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Man shot by Larimer County deputies following chase on I-25 sentenced
A gunman fired into a crowd at a suburban Dallas outlet mall Saturday, killing at least eight people and injuring seven others. Also in the news: Eight people were killed and at least 10 were injured Sunday morning when an SUV slammed into a crowd at a city bus stop near a shelter for migrants in Brownsville, Texas. Lionel Richie got the royal family up and dancing during last night's concert in honor of King Charles III's coronation.

 I'm Nicole Fallert, Daily Briefing author. Check out these Teacher Appreciation Week discounts for the educator in your life.

Now, here we go with Monday's news.

Investigators examine ideology of Texas gunman

Authorities are looking into whether the gunman who killed eight people at a suburban Dallas outdoor mall showed an interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, and if those provided a motive for the weekend attack.

What happened: Mauricio Garcia fired into a crowd at a suburban Dallas outlet mall Saturday, killing at least eight people and injuring seven others as horrific images of severely wounded shoppers hit social media.

People gather across the street from a shopping center after a shooting Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas.

Surveillance video shows Brownsville crash

Surveillance video from a Texas shelter for migrants showed people, mostly Venezuelan men, were sitting on the curb waiting for a bus Sunday when an SUV slammed into the crowd, killing eight and injuring 10 others. Brownsville police investigator Martin Sandoval said authorities are looking into whether the incident was intentional or an accident. "What we see in the video is that this SUV, a Range Rover, just ran the light that was about a hundred feet away and just went through the people who were sitting there in the bus stop," shelter director Victor Maldonado said. The driver was hospitalized and police plan to arrest him when he is released. Read more

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Emergency personnel respond to a fatal collision in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Several migrants were killed after they were struck by a vehicle while waiting at a bus stop near Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter.

More news to know now

What's the weather today? Check your local forecast here.

Police silent on key details days after NYC subway chokehold death

New York City's mayor has urged people not to rush to judgment in the chokehold death of Jordan Neely, but days after Neely was killed on the subway, authorities still have not provided several important details about the circumstances surrounding his death. How long did Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old Marine veteran, place Neely in a chokehold? And what happened leading up to the fatal encounter? The New York Police Department didn't offer any updates when asked by USA TODAY for more details about the investigation Saturday. Neely's death sparked protests in the city, as demonstrators demanded Penny be criminally charged. Read more

Who was Jordan Neely, the New York subway victim? A 'young man in real crisis,' advocates say.

Yellen warns against using the 14th Amendment in debt limit fight

Some officials in the White House are discussing the prospect of essentially declaring the debt ceiling unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment, the New York Times reports. As brinksmanship over the debt ceiling continues and the U.S. barrels towards defaulting on its debts as early as June 1, it is unclear whether the White House would proceed with such a move if the U.S. gets closer to its deadline without hard progress on the current debt ceiling negotiations. But Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned against invoking the 14th amendment, saying such a move could result in a constitutional crisis. Read more

April jobs report: Employers added 253,000 jobs as hiring picked up.

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Katy Perry, Lionel Richie highlight King Charles' coronation concert

The first-ever official coronation concert charmed the royals as well as the 20,000 fans who secured tickets for the inaugural public event held on the grounds of Windsor Castle the day after King Charles and Queen Camilla received their honors. The musical show included Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville as host and a nod to King Charles affection for classical music with the inclusion of Andrea Bocelli, Chinese pianist Lang Lang and Welsh baritone Sir Bryn Terfel. Donning a gold gown, Katy Perry belted a grant rendition of Roar" that was a fitting sentiment for a king and Lionel Richie got the royals dancing with All Night Long (All Night). Read more

Katy Perry performs during the concert at Windsor Castle in Windsor, England, Sunday, May 7, 2023, celebrating the coronation of King Charles III.

Quick hits

Photo of the day: Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix

The second annual Formula One CRYPTO.com Miami Grand Prix provided a thrilling show with Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen hoisting his second Miami trophy high to the adoring crowd when all was said and done Sunday afternoon. It took only 20 laps into the 56-lap grand prix for Verstappen, 25, to take the lead. Click here to read our recap of the race.

Race winner Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing celebrates on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Miami at Miami International Autodrome on May 07, 2023 in Miami, Florida.

Nicole Fallert is a newsletter writer at USA TODAY, sign up for the email here. Want to send Nicole a note? Shoot her an email at NFallert@usatoday.com or follow along with her musings on Twitter. Support journalism like this  subscribe to USA TODAY here.

Associated Press contributed reporting.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas shooting, Brownsville crash, debt ceiling, Jordan Neely, coronation: Daily Briefing
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 20:26 | World, All

Taiwan Vice President Lai Ching-te, a candidate in next year's presidential election, hailed the contributions of Japanese civil engineer Yoichi Hatta in the colonial era at a memorial ceremony on Monday.

At an event in Tainan, southern Taiwan, to commemorate Yoichi Hatta (1886-1942), Lai said the Wushantou Reservoir, the construction of which was overseen by the engineer, serves as a basis for the emotional connection between the people of Japan and Taiwan.

That connection continues to grow as both sides are "willing to stand together against the expansion of authoritarianism for regional peace and stability," Lai said.

Hatta was also in charge of the construction of the Chianan Canal in the island's southwestern Chianan Plain from 1920. The canal, which took 10 years to build, served as a crucial component in a massive irrigation system, one of many infrastructure projects Japan implemented to modernize Taiwan during its 50-year occupation, which ended in 1945.

The engineer's works not only greatly contributed to agriculture but also to the development of commerce and industry, Lai said, adding chip giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. also uses water from Wushantou Reservoir.

Lai, a former Tainan mayor, also thanked former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for his pro-Taiwan stance and for bringing up the concept that any emergency surrounding Taiwan would also be an emergency for Japan.

"Actually many Taiwanese people also think that a Japan emergency is an emergency for Taiwan," Lai said. In July last year, he attended the funeral of Abe, who was shot dead by a lone gunman during a campaign speech.

Shuichi Hatta, Yoichi Hatta's eldest grandson, attended Monday's ceremony and thanked Taiwan for continuing to honor his grandfather's legacy.

Born in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Yoichi Hatta was stationed in Taiwan from 1910 to 1942, serving as a hydraulic engineer for the Japanese government. He was killed in an Allied submarine attack on a ship transporting him to the Philippines on May 8, 1942.

Yoichi Hatta has long been held in high esteem by many people in Taiwan, and a memorial park in Tainan was commissioned in 2011 to honor his contributions to Taiwan's development.
Jessica Gomez, 43, was last seen April 26, 2023, at the Plaza Suites Hotel on the 300 block of East University Avenue. She has since been located.

UPDATE: 11:28 a.m. on May 8, 2023

Jessica Gomez has been located and is safe, according to New Mexico State Police.

ORIGINAL ARTICLE:

LAS CRUCES - Police are asking for help locating a woman who went missing Thursday afternoon.

Jessica Gomez, 43, was last seen on April 26, 2023, at the Plaza Suites Hotel on the 300 block of East University Avenue. Gomez is 5 feet 1 inches tall, 201 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. Her clothing and direction of travel were unknown.

Anyone with any information on the whereabouts of Jessica Gomez is asked to contact the Las Cruces Police Department at 575-526-0795 or dial 911, police said in a news release.

Others are reading:

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Missing person search called off, Gomez located and is safe
Rapper YNW Melly rose to fame in 2018 for having murder on his mind. Now, a Broward jury will soon decide whether the Treasure Coast natives lyrics were more than him exercising artistic license  and played out in real life.

Melly, whose real name is Jamell Demons, is accused of gunning down his childhood friends Anthony Williams and Christopher Thomas Jr., in an alleged drive-by cover up on Oct. 26, 2018 in Miramar. Confidant Cortlen Henry, known as YNW Bortlen, was also arrested and charged with the murders.

READ MORE: Florida rapper charged with two counts of murder faces the death penalty, records show

Melly, 24, best known for hit song Murder on My Mind that captivated the internet, was arrested on two counts of first-degree murder on Feb. 13, 2019. Since then, hes been in the Broward main jail, despite efforts to get released at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. His codefendant Henry, 24, pleaded not guilty and is currently out on house arrest. Court records indicate that Henry, who is facing two additional counts of accessory to murder, will not face trial at the same time as the rapper.

In 2022, prosecutors updated Mellys indictment to include that the murders were committed to benefit, promote and further the interests of a criminal gang.

Heres what to know about the case  and the upcoming trial  as a panel of jurors was selected in late April.

A staged drive-by shooting?

In the early morning hours of Oct. 26, 2018, Henry rushed into Memorial Hospital Miramars emergency room, according to court records. He told medical staff that two men were shot inside his 2018 Jeep Compass.

A Miramar police officer found Williams, 21, in the front passenger seat with gunshot wounds to his head and torso and Thomas, 19, in the right rear passenger seat with gunshot wounds to the back and head.

They were already dead.

Henry, court records say, recounted their whereabouts that night. He told police that the trio had left the New Era Recording Studio in Fort Lauderdale when a car pulled up next to them on Miramar Parkway and opened fire. Williams and Thomas, both aspiring rappers, went by YNW Sakchaser and YNW Juvy.

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Amid the gunfire, Henry lowered his body, he told police, to shield himself. He sped toward the nearest hospital the moment he knew his friends were struck by the spray of bullets.

Police scavenged the area where Henry said the shooting took place, but didnt turn up any evidence matching Henrys account, according to court records. They came across a witness who said he was at the recording studio with Henry, Thomas, Williams and Melly that night. Surveillance video captured all four men hopping into the Jeep, with Melly sitting in the left rear passenger seat. Thats where police later uncovered a single .40 caliber shell casing tucked inside a white plastic bag, court records reveal.

After looking at the pools of blood inside the bullet-riddled Jeep, police began to suspect that Williams and Thomas were shot inside the SUV, according to court records. Cell phone data also placed Melly, Thomas and Williams together throughout the night.

Defense lawyers David Howard (far left) and Stuart Adelstein flank their client Florida rapper Jamell Maurice Demons known as YNW Melly, who is accused of killing two friends in October 2018, on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale.

Court records show investigators located evidence, including another .40 caliber shell casing and glass matching the Jeep, on an isolated patch of Pembroke Road. Projectile analysis determined it to be unlikely for the barrage of bullets to have hit the SUV while in motion, according to court records. The autopsies suggested that the shots came from the left rear passenger side, where Melly was caught on tape sitting earlier that night.

Police believe that Henry and the rapper drove around with Williams and Thomas bodies for a while before entering the hospital. At some point, Melly got out of the Jeep. According to court records, Mellys girlfriend and mother told investigators that he called them via FaceTime that night and said he was the victim of a drive-by shooting that left two of his friends dead. The mother of Mellys girlfriend, who was present during the FaceTime, said it looked like he was hiding and waiting to be picked up.

Rumors and suspicion

During the investigation, officers came across a December 2018 documentary posted on YouTube.

In the 21-minute film, Melly shares his background story growing up in Gifford, a small community on the Treasure Coast. Hes sitting around and smoking with friends, including Thomas and Williams, as they reminisce about their past admiration for Chris Brown.

Mellys mother, who was 14 when she was pregnant with the rapper, gleamed with pride as she packed for their move to South Florida and detailed her sons lifelong love for music. The rapper even greeted a group of children from his hometown interested in the arts and vowed to help them as he furthered his career.

The documentary, however, also touched on Mellys interest in guns and the cutthroat nature of the industry. One of Thomas messages echoed an ominous sentiment:

Make you not know who to trust, you know what Im saying?

The video ends with Thomas voice as Melly faces the splashing ocean. Then, white text appears on the screen: Four days after the completion of this film, YNW Melly and his friends were targets of a drive-by shooting in Miami, Florida, a statement that police argue links the rapper to the scene.

Defense lawyer David Howard (left) talks to his client Florida rapper Jamell Maurice Demons, known as YWN Melly, who is accused of killing two friends in October 2018, on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale.

Investigators also analyzed a series of Snapchat messages between Melly and his girlfriend sent two weeks after the killings, according to court records. They argue that the rapper is alluding to the murders  and Henrys loyalty to him.

Dis n**** saved my life he koming everywhere wit me kuz if dem crackers come grab him its my fault u forgot??? the rapper wrote. I keep Bortlen wit kuz at da end of the day he did one of a realist shit in my life.

In a now-deleted Instagram post, Melly addressed rumors about his arrest as he was preparing to turn himself in.

...A couple months ago I lost my two brothers by violence and now the system want to find justice.. unfortunately a lot of rumors and lies are being said but no worries god is with me and my brother @ynw.bortlen and we want yall to remember its a ynw Family I love you @ynwsakchaser1 and @ynwjuvy #freeus

They Took My Brothers From Me Over Jealousy I know yall watching over me its #ynw4l and after , they wanna see me break down and stop or in jail or a box but my niggas still need me they parents need me they family need me till we meet again my slimes pic.twitter.com/wuKuhulqAW  Melvin & Melly 2 Face (@YNWMelly) October 27, 2018

After the slayings, fans and critics alike have dissected the lyrics of his best-known song Murder on My Mind, which features a grim retelling of an unintentional homicide over a blend of emotional piano riffs and hip-hop beats.

Yellow tape around his body, its a f****** homicide

His face is on a T-shirt and his family traumatized

I didnt even mean to shoot him, he just caught me by surprise

I reloaded my pistol, cocked it back, and shot him twice

His body dropped down to the floor, and he got teardrops in his eyes

He grabbed me by my hands and said he was afraid to die

I told him, Its too late, my friend, its time to say goodbye

And he died inside my arms, blood all on my shirt

Though internet sleuths claim the song is a confession or evidence of Mellys guilt, the lyrics were written in 2016 while he was behind bars for other charges  years before the double murder.

Mellys a savage, no he not no amateur

In 2015, the rapper was charged with three counts of aggravated assault and a count of discharging a firearm after shooting at three people near Vero Beach High School. The then-16-year-old spent a year in jail before being arrested again on a probation violation in 2017. He was behind bars until March 2018.

After his 2019 arrest, Melly and Henry were being considered possible suspects in the 2017 Gifford shooting death of Garry Chambliss, an off-duty Indian River County sheriffs deputy, according to local news source VeroNews.

What to expect from the trial

The trial, which is estimated to run through all of June and July, will likely include weeks of witness and expert testimony. Court records show ballistics, forensics and gang experts listed as potential state witnesses. The trial was slated to start in 2022 but was ultimately pushed back.

As rap lyrics have been used in hundreds of trials, many following the case online have hypothesized that Mellys lyrics, specifically those in Murder on My Mind, will be discussed during the trial. In court, rap songs are treated as confessions, proof of intent or threats, whether written before or after the crime, Erik Nielson, a professor at the University of Richmond, told Genius in 2016.

Melly is also facing the death penalty after several challenges  and years of legal limbo. The issue was raised to the Florida Supreme Court this year, but it declined to exercise jurisdiction. The death penalty case comes after Florida lawmakers and Gov. Ron DeSantis approved a law allowing juries to recommend a death sentence with an 8-4 vote instead of a unanimous vote as previously required. The push to reduce Floridas death penalty threshold was inspired by the Parkland school shooter not receiving the states highest punishment due to a split jury.

Florida rapper Jamell Maurice Demons known as YNW Melly, who is accused of killing 2 friends in October of 2018, is seen during a jury selection hearing presided by Judge John J. Murphy III, at the the Broward County Circuit Court in Fort Lauderdale, on Wednesday April 12, 2023.

YNW Melly came into the public eye in 2018 with his double-platinum song Murder on My Mind, which he initially released on Soundcloud. He would go on to collaborate with several popular artists such as Kanye West, Juice WRLD and Trippie Redd and released his debut album Melly vs. Melvin while locked up.
Taylor Swift's record-breaking "The Eras Tour" comes to Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

While it's not exactly a homecoming for the megastar, her Berks County roots certainly give T-Swift an area connection. Her family still resides in Wyomissing, where her father, Scott K. Swift, is a financial advisor.

This is Swift's 32nd concert in her home state and it is taking place just across the street from one of the first major Pa. venues where she performed.

Swift sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Citizens Bank Park for the 2008 World Series. It came just days before the release of her smash sophomore album, "Fearless," which would launch the first concert tour of her career six months after the Phillies world championship.

Scott K. Swift and his daughter Taylor Swift attend the 50th Academy of Country Music Awards at AT&T Stadium on April 19, 2015 in Arlington, Texas.

In a 2009 interview with writer Erica Finamore at UDaily, a promotional publication produced by the University of Delaware's Office of Communications and Marketing, the elder Swift revealed how that World Series appearance came about.

The reason she sang the anthem is because two University of Delaware alumni kept in touch over the years, said the 71-year-old, who graduated from University of Delaware in 1974.

UD alum Michael DiMuzio, the now-retired longtime director of ballpark operations for the Philadelphia Phillies, would meet up with Swift once a year for a reunion and through that connection Taylor landed the anthem gig.

Scott K. Swift and daughter Taylor Swift at the 2011 CMT Artists of the Year celebration at the Bridgestone Arena on November 29, 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee.

In the '09 interview, Scott Swift joked about how his daughter's success had sparked messages from plenty of old college buds: You can either go on classmates.com or have a daughter who sells 10 million CDs.

The head of Merrill Lynch's Wyomissing-based The Swift Group told UDaily that former college classmates would reach out when his daughter was performing in their hometown, even back then.

I've heard from a lot of great alumni and I'm convinced they live in every city because whenever Taylor's rolling into wherever she is, we'll hear from them, he said.

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Taylor Swift performs onstage on the first night of her "Eras Tour" at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on March 31, 2023.

TAYLOR SWIFT IN NASHVILLE: 5 moments from her remarkable return on the 'Eras' tour

It'll be tough scoring "Eras" tickets for the alum. The entire tour is effectively sold out, including Swift's Philadelphia concerts, at which Phoebe Bridgers opens all three shows and GAYLE is also on the Friday and Saturday bills.

Back in December, a full three months before "Eras" launched, the Wall Street Journal reported only 6% of tickets were still available for the tour, which will wrap up Aug. 9 in Inglewood, California's SoFi Stadium.

Even though she has performed only 16 of the tour's 52-date U.S. stadium trek, she has already broken some records. They include the female artist who has performed to the largest crowd in American history. It happened when she kicked off the tour for more than 69,000 fans in Glendale, Arizona, beating Madonna's record from 1987.

THE TAY CAFE Visit this Stone Harbor cafe where Taylor Swift was 'always coming in to play' as a child

Scott K. Swift and his daughter Taylor Swift attend the 50th Academy of Country Music Awards at AT&T Stadium on April 19, 2015 in Arlington, Texas.

Have a story idea? Contact Ryan Cormier of Delaware Online/The News Journal at rcormier@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2863. Follow him on Facebook (@ryancormier) and Twitter (@ryancormier).

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Taylor Swift Eras Tour is coming to Philly Lincoln Financial Field
Newark residents should be prepared for an abundance of cars on the road, foot traffic and crowded restaurants during the University of Delawares graduation weekend at the end of this month.

Whether youre gearing up to celebrate a graduate in your life in a few short weeks, or want to steer clear of the university area until the celebrations die down, heres what you need to know about the momentous weekend:

When is the University of Delawares graduation?

Former Newark High School classmates Cassie O'Quinn (left) of Newark (receiving a quantitative biology degreee) and Oluwaseyi Osinubi of Bear (engineering) grab a selfie before the University of Delaware's 2022 Commencement at Delaware Stadium, Saturday, May 28, 2022.

UDs commencement ceremony for the class of 2023 is scheduled for Saturday, May 27, at 9:30 a.m. at Delaware Stadium.

Who is able to attend the University of Delawares graduation ceremony?

Graduates mingle under a strong sun during the hours-long wait for the start of the University of Delaware's 2022 Commencement at Delaware Stadium, Saturday, May 28, 2022.

Admission to the event requires a ticket and is only open to graduating students and up to four guests. Approximately 4,000 graduates are expected to attend, along with nearly 16,000 guests, the school said in UDaily post.

The university offers a livestream of the ceremony for those who are unable to attend in person. Information about the livestream will be shared by the school at a later date.

New in Newark: First look: The newest Grain restaurant has Newark's only outdoor bar, opening soon

Who will be the guest speaker at commencement?

Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to go to space, will be the speaker at the University of Delawares commencement ceremony this year, announced UD President Dennis Assanis in a UDaily post.

Jemison holds many titles given her six years as a NASA astronaut, seven years as an environmental studies professor at Dartmouth College, time spent as the Area Peace Corps Medical Officer for Sierra Leone and Liberia, and as a general practice physician in Los Angeles.

Mae Jemison

Jemison also leads 100 Year Starship (100YSS), a nonprofit created to assure the capabilities exist for human travel beyond our solar system to another star within the next 100 years. She founded The Jemison Group, Inc. (JG), a technology consulting firm that integrates critical socio-cultural issues into the design of science and engineering projects. And, in 1994, she founded the international science camp The Earth We Share (TEWS) for 12 to 16-year-old students worldwide under the nonprofit Dorothy Jemison Foundation for Excellence (DJF).

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Real-life education: New plan promises experience outside the classroom will earn college credit in Delaware

We are delighted to host Dr. Jemison to deliver this years Commencement address to our graduates and their families and friends, Assanis said in the UDaily post. She is an exemplar of someone dedicated to exploring endless possibilities and infinite frontiers  always finding meaningful ways to make a difference in the world. This commitment is one we strive to instill in our graduates.

President Joe Biden (left) and University President Dennis Assanis take selfies - one with the crowd behind them, one the other direction - during the University of Delaware's 2022 Commencement at Delaware Stadium, Saturday, May 28, 2022.

Last year, President Joe Biden became the first sitting president to speak at a UD graduation ceremony when he visited his alma mater to give the commencement speech.

The occasion marked his fifth time speaking at UDs commencement, and his first time doing so since 2014 when he served as vice president.

Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys'tal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com.

A night out in Newark: UD's 'mega pints': Personal pitchers of mixed drinks make splash on Main Street

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: What to know about University of Delaware graduation 2023 weekend
Business Reporter

Joel Donofrio is the business reporter for the Yakima Herald. He was born and raised in the Chicago area, but he and his wife, Cathy, fell in love with the beauty (and low humidity) of the West and moved here in 2009, eventually relocating to Yakima in September 2021. They have two young adult children, Anthony and Joanna, and a dog, Molly. When he is not taking photos of construction sites, tracking down new and relocating businesses or catching up on agricultural trends, Joel enjoys playing guitar, singing, listening to music and playing and watching sports.
Crime and Courts Reporter

Donald W. Meyers is a multimedia journalist at the Yakima Herald-Republic covering crime and courts. He is also the writer behind It Happened Here, a weekly history column. Before coming to Yakima, Meyers covered a wide variety of beats at The Salt Lake Tribune, Daily Herald, and daily and weekly newspapers across New Jersey. He is also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, serving as a regional officer in the organization as well as on the national Freedom of Information Committee.
RFA/Latino Community and Lower Valley Reporter

Heyo, Im Jasper. Nice to meet you. I cover a wide variety of news, but I try to focus on the Latino community and the Lower Yakima Valley. I want to sharestories and perspectives from the Yakima Valley. Im interested in economics, labor, geography and the environment, but the most important issues will always be the ones the community cares about. If you have something worth saying, Ill listen and try to write it down. Im a gosei from Northeast Los Angeles and I got my start as a student journalist and editor covering sports in the Bay Area. Im a massive soccer fan and I still love to play. I also love water in all its forms, the word copacetic and trying new things. I want to read more, and I like to cook, but Im not great at either. Have fun out there!
Tens of thousands of engineers remain frustrated with the lack of paid sick time and the demands railroads like BNSF are making in negotiations despite the progress that has been made this year with sick time deals for most of the other rail unions
By Akbar Hasanov, Day.az

Reading the Armenian media is boring and kind of a forced job for us. The work is like that, you become aware of new myths, nonsense from those who simply do not understand the new realities - the Armenian mirages...and so, we hasten to leave it to the judgment of our readers, the outcomes of new Armenian mirages, for which they are going to run to the Armenia. First, we start with a report that 40 PACE parliamentarians demanded that Azerbaijan immediately end the "illegal blockade of the Lachin corridor."

This is claimed in a statement released by the Armenian representation in the Council of Europe. Which in itself is ridiculous. For, everything voiced by the Armenian side must be repeatedly checked. In any case, we see an example of childish naivety on the Armenian side. They really believe that by mobilizing, financially and otherwise, a number of deputies in PACE, it is possible to get Azerbaijan to waive the right to establish checkpoint on its territory.

Everyone who signed this piece of paper, if there are such signatures in reality, should be reminded that initially everything was turned upside down. It is still illegal on the territory of Azerbaijan, with a passport of citizens of Armenia, tens of thousands of Armenians live. However, there are no Azerbaijanis in Armenia. Event not from the word at all. This is the result of ethnic cleansing by the Republic of Armenia; which would be worth paying attention to in PACE.

As well as the fact that in the territory of Azerbaijan, in the Karabakh economic region, the robbery of our natural resources has been going on for almost three decades. It did not stop even after the end of the 44-day war. Actually, that is why the peaceful protest action of Azerbaijani eco-activists began. They demanded, but did not get access to our, Azerbaijani deposits, for monitoring there.

So, all these attempts, in the form of collecting signatures in PACE, are no more than playing like a monkey. Because not a single international organization, including PACE, has imposed sanctions against Armenia for all the years while the occupation of our territories by it continued. At the same time, in PACE, in 2021, a completely biased resolution was adopted called "Humanitarian consequences of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan - the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh conflict."

"The protracted conflict has had catastrophic consequences for the cultural heritage and property of the region, for which both Armenia and Azerbaijan are responsible," the resolution said. As you can see, it was a primitive manipulation, a blatant lie. For, the 44-day war was fought exclusively on the territory of Azerbaijan, and not on the territory of Armenia. Therefore, an attempt to equalize the aggressor and the victim of aggression is immoral and unacceptable.

Moreover, during the 44-day war, by order of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, peaceful Azerbaijani cities were shelled. Yes, Pashinyan is, in fact, a war criminal. And not a "democrat" at all. This, by the way, is the last straw that the forces eager to help the RA have tried and are still trying to catch.

From the first days of the "barbecue revolution" Pashinyan was molded into a "democrat of pure blood". He himself happily played this role, even heading the occupying state, which was initially unnatural. What he did not promise to everyone at that time - from personal participation in solving the demographic problem of the RA, to bringing the Armenian army to the level of one of the best in the world. In the end, he got absolutely nothing.

And now Armenian politicians and media are competing in how to call Nikol Vovaevich more derogatory. And now we see that the Armenian media are publishing the opinion of Boris Rozhin, an expert from the Russian Center for Military-Political Journalism, about how the vyser of RA Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan is indicated there, whom the Russian called no more and no less than Soros' bedding".

Further, already other speakers call Pashinyan an incompetent leader and the head of the "junta that seized power in the country." Somehow, all this does not fit in the guise of "democrat" Pashinyan. Who was also called the "conspirator". Those who did this are wondering: "why is he in power, but the whole nation is dying, losing, suffering, humiliated and demoralized?" After that, open accusations are made against the citizens of the Republic of Armenia, who "elected him the head of the state and tolerate him until now."

It is interesting, is it just right to listen to those deputies in PACE who scribble anti-Azerbaijani nonsense..? And then - all those who continue to replicate lies about the "island of democracy" called RA? A state that relies most of all on the support, to put it mildly, of countries that are far from democracy, cannot be called such; for example, Iran. Plus, its absurd in general to babble something about the democratic nature of someone who has long been an object of contempt and jokes in its country. Before us is just a failed populist-loser, guilty of unleashing a 44-day war. Taking "revenge" for the defeat in which is another Armenian mirage.
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 21:03 | World

Toyota Motor Corp. Chairman Akio Toyoda on Monday apologized for its small-car subsidiary Daihatsu Motor Co.'s improper vehicle testing that has affected models sold in Southeast Asia and other markets.

"It was a practice that should have never occurred," Toyoda said at a press conference held in Bangkok. "The (Toyota) group as a whole will do its utmost to regain trust," he said, pledging to spearhead efforts to address the problem.

Daihatsu said last month front door cards of four models for overseas markets, including Yaris that it makes for Toyota, were "improperly modified" in side collision tests. About 88,000 units passed the test with such modification, many of which were sold in Thailand and Malaysia, it said.

Daihatsu's rigging of the crash test, discovered after a report by a whistleblower, comes after Toyota's truck arm Hino Motors Ltd. last year admitted to engine data falsification and Toyota Industries Corp. revealed in March improper inspections of its forklift engines.

The four Daihatsu-made models in question are Toyota Yaris ATIV, Toyota Agya, Axia produced for Malaysian automaker Perodua, and one unnamed model still in development.

About 76,000 affected Yaris units were sold in Thailand and the Middle East, among other markets, according to Daihatsu.

Among the four models, "We have confirmed the safety and quality of Yaris and can assure our customers that it is safe to drive," Toyoda said.

Toyota Agya was scheduled to be sold in Ecuador.

Related coverage:

Toyota profit falls despite record sales as rising costs bite

Japan major automakers' domestic output sees 1st rise in 4 yrs

Toyota focuses on emission cuts rather than on EV sales: new pres.
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Crucial EU-court ruling on Polish legacy loans is set for June The European Unions top court will rule next month in a much-anticipated case over Swiss-franc mortgages that threatens to increase legacy lending costs for Polish banks, according to Bloomberg. The decision on whether the banks can pass on extra fees to customers whose foreign-currency loans were deemed unfair will be announced on June 15, Arkadiusz [] The post Crucial EU-court ruling on Polish legacy loans is set for June appeared first on Stiri online, ultimele stiri, presa online, ziar online - Sursazilei.ro . Citeste articolul mai departe pe sursazilei.ro

Sursa articol si foto: sursazilei.ro

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- The European Union is seeking to conclude a free-trade agreement with Australia by the summer, even as the two sides still need to work through some of the more contentious issues, according to Bloomberg. Further discussions are due to take place later this month, which will likely be the last round

- Cea mai grava epidemie de gripa aviara cu care s-a confruntat vreodata Japonia a decimat efectivele de pasari si a dus la cresterea exploziva a pretului la oua, iar acum nu mai exista suficient teren pentru a ingropa pasarile moarte, relateaza Bloomberg, citat de Agerpres. Peste 17 milioane de pasari

- The European Central Bank is likely to reassure European Union leaders on Friday that euro zone banks are safe after market turbulence caused by Swiss and U.S. banks, but call on them to push on with an EU deposit insurance scheme, officials said, according to Reuters. EU leaders are meeting for a second

- The European Union will seek to rein in generous spending by member states permitted to help households and businesses through the Covid pandemic and energy crisis as it sets out a return to stricter budgetary discipline, according to Bloomberg. Governments will be instructed to withdraw support and

- The European Union should halve the $60 price cap on Russian oil this month and further squeeze Moscows ability to fund the war in Ukraine, Estonias foreign minister said, according to Bloomberg. More than a year after the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of its neighbor, Estonias top diplomat

- The European Union is scrambling to salvage a plan to effectively ban new combustion-engine cars by 2035 after Germany and Italy threatened to block the agreement, according to Bloomberg. In one possible compromise, Germany is seeking assurances that there will be an exemption to the rules for e-fuels,

- The European Union and the US are close to an agreement on raw materials used in batteries that would allow EU companies access to some of the same benefits in President Joe Bidens green investment plan as Washingtons free-trade partners, according to the blocs trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis, Bloomberg

- The European Union decided to add Russia to its blacklist of non-cooperative jurisdictions on tax matters because it concluded Moscow failed to address harmful practices on intellectual property and other issues before talks halted following the invasion of Ukraine, according to Bloomberg. EU finance
Loteria Romana  Report de peste 7,87 milioane de euro la tragerea Loto 6/49

Loteria Romana anunta un report de peste 38,83 milioane de lei (peste 7,87 milioane de euro) la Loto 6/49, la categoria I, in timp ce la Noroc este in joc un report de 6,29 milioane de lei (peste 1,27 milioane de euro), pentru extragerea de [citeste mai departe]
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 14:15 | All, Japan, Coronavirus, Travel/Tourism

Japan on Monday downgraded the legal status of COVID-19 to the same category as seasonal influenza and greatly relaxed its related health measures, marking a major shift in its approach after three years of dealing with the coronavirus.

The reclassification of COVID-19 to Class 5 means decisions on anti-coronavirus prevention measures are now up to individuals and businesses. But experts are still calling on the government to ensure medical institutions can properly respond to another potential future surge in the number of infections.

The government has removed most of its guidelines, such as quarantine periods of seven days for people who test positive for the disease and five days for those who have been in close contact with an infected person.

Residents of Japan are also to be charged for coronavirus-related outpatient care and hospitalization, although subsidies are available for expensive treatment. COVID-19 patients will also receive medical treatment in ordinary hospitals instead of designated facilities.

The disease was categorized in 2020 as a special public health threat equivalent to or stricter than Class 2, which covers infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS.

The government formally decided on April 27 to downgrade the coronavirus' legal status as the vaccination program, among other factors, has made the disease less deadly, while calls for rejuvenating the pandemic-hit economy have grown.

The preparedness of the health care system to withstand a future outbreak was also taken into account.

Under the reclassification, the government will also no longer legally be able to recommend hospitalization for coronavirus patients or declare a state of emergency, under which governors were able to request the reduction of opening hours for businesses and could close or impose fines for those that did not comply.

The government said that around 8,300 medical institutions, comprised of 90 percent of hospitals nationwide plus some clinics, will have the capacity for up to 58,000 COVID-19 inpatients by the end of September, with around 44,000 institutions accepting outpatients, up from 42,000 last month.

Japan has already lifted its rules on the wearing of face masks from March 13, leaving the decision up to individuals.

Despite the relaxation on face coverings, the majority of commuters around Tokyo Station on Monday morning still wore masks.

Toru Yamanaka, a 44-year-old banker in the capital, said he "can't take off" his face covering when on crowded trains because almost everyone else is masked.

He said he would "look at what everyone else is doing" at work before deciding on how to approach the issue.

Outside Osaka Station in western Japan, too, there were numerous masked travelers. While waiting for a bus, 86-year-old Noriaki Kuwabara was surprised as he had "expected there to be more people with their masks off."

The government lifted COVID-19 border controls for all arrivals on April 29, the start of the annual Golden Week holiday period, meaning entrants are no longer required to present certification of at least three coronavirus vaccination doses or a negative coronavirus test taken within 72 hours of departure.

Even after the downgrade, coronavirus vaccinations will remain free of charge until the end of March 2024, and subsidies of up to 20,000 yen ($148) a month will be provided for coronavirus-related hospitalization until September this year.

On Monday, the government began vaccination programs for the elderly and those with underlying diseases, alongside medical and nursing care workers, for the current fiscal year that began in April. For some, it will be their sixth round of inoculation.

For students who become infected, the government has said they should be absent for five days after showing symptoms, and for one day after they have recovered.

The government also offers similar guidance to others in response to calls from nursing care providers who wish to know when they can return to work after becoming infected.

Even after patients recuperate, the government recommends they wear a face mask for 10 days and refrain from coming in contact with the elderly or others at higher risk of developing serious symptoms.

Issues remain, however, around providing a suitable environment for the elderly at medical facilities and institutions, as infections continue to be reported nationwide.

At the Tokyo metropolitan government's comprehensive coronavirus consultations call center that began operations Monday, phones were ringing constantly. An official said the center "cannot let its guard down" against infections.

The reclassification of the virus and the easing of public health measures could make it difficult to effectively monitor the number of infections in Japan if they begin rising again, said Tetsuya Matsumoto, a professor at the International University of Health and Welfare.

"The medical system, which appears to be improving, may not actually have the capacity to sufficiently respond. The challenge is how to steadily increase the number of medical institutions that can receive patients," Matsumoto said.

Related coverage:

WHO lifts global COVID emergency as deaths, serious cases decline
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- Border police seizes goods worth over 3.5 million lei.The border police seized, on Monday, for confiscation, goods worth about 3,580,000 lei, following checks at border crossing points throughout the country, and the value of fines imposed amounts to over 24,000 lei, told Agerpres. CITESTE SI

- State Independence Day of Romania CITESTE SI European Commissioner for Transport Valean to visit Moldova, Romania, May 9-11 08:40 10 New European Cybersecurity Competence Centre to be inaugurated in Bucharest 08:33 24 MAY 9 IN HISTORY 08:30 16 PM Ciuca meets Italian minister of enterprises; decarbonization,

- Payment agency authorises EUR 2.78 billion in payments under 2022 campaign.The Agency for Payments and Intervention in Agriculture (APIA) has authorised over EUR 2.78 billion between October 16, 2022 and May 5, 2023 in payments based on applications submitted in 2022 for aid schemes and market measures,

- EXECUTIVE:- Government meeting Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  Help your friends know more about Romania! Share this article on Facebook Share this article!  NEWSLETTER  

- PRESIDENCY:- President Klaus Iohannis is paying an official visit to the Republic of Argentina, where he will be received by the Republic of Argentina, Alberto Fernandez, at the Casa Rosada Presidential Palace Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook

- PRESIDENCY:- President Klaus Iohannis continues official visit to Brazil (18-19 April) Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  Help your friends know more about Romania! Share this article on Facebook Share

- Approximately 207,000 people, Romanian and foreign nationals, with over 51,000 means of transport, carried out, on Sunday, the control formalities (both inbound and outbound) through border points throughout the country, the General Inspectorate of the Border Police (IGPF) informs.According to a

- As many as 89,586 people, including 6,636 Ukrainian citizens, entered Romania on Sunday, February 26, the General Border Police Inspectorate (IGPF) reported on Monday. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  Help your
The Netherlands will be the guest of honour at the 28th Budapest International Book Festival held between September 28 and October 1 at the Millenaris Park, organisers said.

Katalin Gal, head of the association of Hungarian publishers and book sellers (MKKE), meanwhile said this years Book Week would be held between June 8 and 11 in Vorosmarty Square and on the embankment of the Danube on the citys Pest side.



Both events were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.



Click here for more about the Book Festival
Hungary is still able to maintain the caps on utility fees, Prime Minister Viktor Orban told public radio on Friday. Prices are not breaking loose, families will remain protected up to average consumption and the government aims to also help SMEs, he added.

He said passes were being introduced in all counties nationwide, so support was being shared around equally, and what has only been available in Budapest so far will also be granted to people outside the capital.



The government will try to maintain family protection measures despite the war most likely not coming to an end this year, Orban said.



The price of energy purchased from Russia is affected by a delay, with both price cuts and price increases appearing a couple months later, he said. Whats most important is that there will be enough energy available when the heating season begins and this will be achieved by topping up storage facilities, he added.



Meanwhile, the prime minister said nine countries headed by Germany were currently publishing a new initiative aimed at deviating from the EU basic treaty and preventing member states from pursuing independent foreign policy.



If a two-thirds majority of the EU makes a certain decision then no member state will be allowed to act differently, he said.



This means that independent Hungarian foreign policy will cease to exist, he added. Attempts are being made in the whole of the western world to restrict the independence, powers and sovereignty of countries and to take more and more out of their hands, he said.



This is a breaking point because we believe in the Europe of nations, Orban said.



The only cure is if nations get strengthened, which is the basis for western culture, and its what made the West great, but the globalists are trying to eliminate nations, he added.



All nations must be cautious, especially a small one like Hungary and if we dont want to be trampled, we must insist on the concept of the Europe of nations, he said.



Commenting on the ongoing CPAC Hungary conference, he said it was also the reason why our conservative friends have arrived.



The people meeting in Budapest are bound by this idea and they are ready to fight a political battle against the world of the global elite and speculators, Orban said.
Budapest is often referred to by some as the European "capital of porn" due to the significant adult film industry presence in the city.

While the term is somewhat exaggerated, there are a few factors that have contributed to this perception:



Economic factors: Following the fall of communism in the early 1990s, many Eastern European countries, including Hungary, experienced economic hardship. The adult film industry offered a source of income for some people during these difficult times.



Relatively lax regulations: Compared to other European countries, Hungary has had less stringent regulations on the production and distribution of adult films. This has made it easier for companies to operate in the country.



Talent pool: Budapest has a large population of attractive and open-minded individuals who may be more inclined to participate in adult films. This has made it an attractive location for adult film producers.



Cost-effective production: The cost of producing adult films in Budapest is relatively low compared to other major cities in Europe and the United States. This has encouraged more companies to set up operations in the city.



It's important to note that the label "capital of porn" is not an official title, and many people in Budapest and Hungary may not appreciate this association. The adult film industry is just one aspect of the city, which is better known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
The Scottish Highlands was named as one of the Best of the World destinations of 2023 by National Geographic. There is no wonder why: with dramatic landscapes, romantic castles, lush green fields and crystal clear water, this is the perfect location to produce award winning whiskies.

Lets use our imagination to travel to the Scottish Highlands where we will visit two fantastic whisky distilleries. Our first stop will be the Glenfarclas Distillery, where whisky is the result of the familys experience of over 150 years.



Then we will head over to the Tomatin Distillery, where Tomatin Highland Single Malt and the experimental spirit, Cu Bocan Single Malt are produced.





Glenfarclas Whisky

One famous surname, five generations: a family business in the truest sense, this is the story of the Glenfarclas Distillery. Since 1865 Glenfarclas has been owned and managed by the Grants family. Now in the hands of the fifth generation of the family, the Grants remain committed to the vision of creating the best quality Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky.



Glenfarclas 8 years old

The 8-year-old expression is the youngest Glenfarclas whisky produced by the Grants family. It is a very sweet, fruity and well-balanced whisky, perfect choice for those who are just getting to know the Scotch Single Malts whiskies.



Of course, we can find older whiskies in the range of Glenfarclas, they offer 10, 12, 15, 17, 21, 25, 30 and 40 years old whiskies for those who can appreciate aged spirits. In 2023 they even launched a Glenfarclas 50-Year-Old which marks the 50th anniversary of chairman and family member, John Grant. Fun fact: the popular Guy Ritchie movie The Gentlemen features a Glenfarclas whisky.



Tomatin and Cu Bocan Single Malts

Tomatin Distillery is located quite close to Inverness and Loch Ness. This is where Tomatin Single Malt whisky and Cu Bocan Single Malt whisky brands were born. While Tomatin whiskies are not peated and rather fruity, light and vanilla flavoured, on the contrary, Cu Bocan whiskies are lightly peated, the wisp of smoke intertwines with the rich citrusy and exotic spicy flavours.



Tomatin 12 years old whisky

The Tomatin 12-Year-Old is classically smooth, having been matured in traditional Scotch Whisky, ex-Bourbon and ex-Spanish Sherry casks. Aromas of wild heather, pine and cedar soon sweeten to reveal notes of creme caramel with apples, pears and mango before a full-bodied and buttery finish.



Cu Bocan Signature

The slogan of the Cu Bocan brand is Unlock the Unusual which means that Cu Bocan is an experimental Highland Single Malt that explores innovative finishes to create whiskies full of intrigue and surprise. In Cu Bocan Signature whisky light smoke intertwines with rich citrus and exotic spices.



Subtly smoky, surprisingly sweet, it opens up the world of lightly peated whisky. Recent news: Cu Bocan Signature Highland Single Malt has just recently won a double gold award at the 2023 San Francisco Worlds Spirits Competition.



Glenfarclas, Cu Bocan and Tomatin Highland Single Malt Scotch whiskies can be purchased in the webshop of WhiskyNet.
Every day, events around the world, such as the recent outbreak of violence in Sudan, emphasize how fragile peace can be. As an internal power struggle between rival military leaders erupted into lethal clashes, American diplomats have been evacuated and hundreds of thousands of refugees have been displaced. Sadly, this  along with the ongoing war in Ukraine  brings into sharp focus the importance and challenge of achieving security through peaceful means on the international stage.

I was encouraged by my recent meeting with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. There is strong bipartisan support across the U.S. government for ensuring longstanding freedom and security in Taiwan, as well as their role in regional security, and I thank Speaker McCarthy for spearheading the meeting.

Security, both in East Asia and around the world, relies heavily on effective cooperation among friends and allies. I was pleased to attend South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeols address to a joint session of Congress on April 27. His calls to increase cooperation, stand up to the forces of totalitarianism, and shed light on the humanitarian crisis in North Korea were met with bipartisan applause. The threat of nuclear aggression from multiple adversaries including North Korea, China, Russia, and Iran has never been greater, which makes clear the need for the United States to stand up for freedom from a position of strength and resolve.

Im pleased the House is acting in a strategic and bipartisan way to address the ongoing threat posed by China. In the House Ways and Means Committee, we are partnering with the Select Committee on China, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and other committees to put forward a strong domestic and foreign policy agenda. Recently, the House passed a resolution calling on China to release American Mark Swidan who has been held by the Chinese Communist Party since 2012 and was sentenced to death in 2019 under unjust charges.

Supply chain issues are integral to homeland security and combatting China, especially when it comes to energy, and American energy dominance remains one of my number top concerns in Congress. As the Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committees Subcommittee on Trade, I see enormous potential for the U.S. and other nations to step up and fill many of the gaps left by rogue states. This is why we must be proactive to strengthen ties and trade relationships as we build our own domestic manufacturing capabilities.

As we think about our allies around the world, we cannot ignore one of our most important relationships  our partnership with Israel. The House recently passed a resolution commemorating May 14, 2023, as the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel and affirming support for the advancement in Middle Eastern regional security achieved by the historic Abraham Accords. Mediated by the Trump administration, the accords were ratified September 15, 2020, and signed as a commitment to strengthen peace and prosperity between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. We have no greater friend to freedom in the Middle East than Israel, and we must make our support clear to those who wish to destroy them.
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 22:54 | All, Japan

A Rolex specialty store in Tokyo's Ginza shopping district was robbed Monday by three men who stole a number of wristwatches before fleeing by car, investigative sources said.

Police have taken into custody the three men who held up Quark Ginza 888 at around 6:15 p.m. and another person believed to be an accomplice, the sources said. The four men were also arrested the same day for a break-in at another building in Tokyo's Minato Ward, according to the sources.

According to Tokyo police, the robbers waved a knife at a male sales clerk in his 30s and made threats such as "Get down, or we'll kill you."

They then broke into a showcase with a crowbar-like object taking the watches. The sales clerk was not injured.

The store is located on a street lined with luxury brand stores around 300 meters from Shimbashi Station.

A woman in her 50s from Tokyo's Adachi Ward who was shopping in the area expressed shock at the incident, saying, "I thought (Ginza) was a safe place."
Hyundai Exter is revealed in new images, and the South Korean brand has started accepting bookings against a token amount of Rs 11,000. Customers can now book Hyundai Exter at Hyundai Dealerships across India or online via the Click To Buy portal. The Hyundai Exter will retail with 3 powertrain options- 1.2 l Kappa Petrol engine (E20 Fuel Ready) available with 5-speed manual transmission (5MT) and Smart Auto AMT(Automated Manual Transmission) and 1.2 l Bi-fuel Kappa petrol with CNG engine equipped with 5-speed Manual transmission. HMI will offer the Hyundai Exter in 5 trim options  EX, S, SX, SX(O) and SX(O) Connect.

The Unique colour Ranger Khaki suits the new SUV like no other. This colour reflects ones exploration desires while celebrating the thrill of setting out in the world. Hyundai Exter will rejuvenate customer aspirations with a contemporary and unique take on SUV design. The facade features a prominent-looking Parametric Front Grille that highlights this SUV's modern appeal. The exceptional SUV design is amplified with H-Signature LED DRLs, Projector Headlamps and Sporty Skid Plate, while the unique Exter emblem on the front highlights this SUVs bespoke appeal.

The dynamic side is further accentuated with Diamond Cut Alloy wheels housed in blacked-out wheel arches & side sill cladding that builds on this SUVs outdoorsy persona. Hyundai Exter also features a floating roof design which is further enhanced with Parametric Design C-Pillar garnish and Sporty bridge-type Roof Rails that summarizes this SUVs youthful and modern persona.

Also read - Simple One Electric Scooter's Production Starts Ahead Of May 23 Launch, Gets 236 Km Range

Commenting on the commencement of bookings for Hyundai Exter, Mr. Tarun Garg, COO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, We are glad to announce the commencement of bookings for our latest new SUV - Hyundai Exter. With this new SUV, we are venturing into a new segment that further enhances HMIsposition as a full-range SUV manufacturer. Considering the aspirations and lifestyle of Gen Z customers, Hyundai Exter will provide unique and exciting experiences for new-age customers. Packed with breakthrough technology and advanced features, Hyundai Exter is going to disrupt the segment while catering to the versatile needs of our customers."
New Delhi: Shares of digital financial services firm One97 Communications, which operates under the Paytm brand, jumped almost 5 per cent on Monday after the company's consolidated loss narrowed to Rs 167.5 crore in the March quarter. The stock ended with a gain of 4.95 per cent at Rs 723.60 apiece on the BSE. During the day, it rallied 5.78 per cent to Rs 729.35 apiece. Shares of the company on the NSE climbed 4.98 per cent to end at Rs 724 each.

The company's market valuation gained Rs 2,170.67 crore to Rs 45,867.19 crore. In volume terms, 5.96 lakh shares of the firm exchanged hands on the BSE and over 1.59 crore shares were traded on the NSE during the day. The company had posted a loss of Rs 762.5 crore in the same period of the last year.

The consolidated revenue from operations of the company grew 51.5 per cent to Rs 2,334.5 crore in the quarter under review, from Rs 1,540.9 crore in the March quarter of FY22. For the year ended March 31, 2023, One97 Communications reported narrowing of loss to Rs 1,776.5 crore from Rs 2,396.4 crore in the previous fiscal.

The revenue from operations of the company grew by about 60 per cent to Rs 7,990.3 crore in FY23 from Rs 4,974.2 crore in FY22. "Our 61 per cent YoY revenue growth for FY2023 was driven by payments monetisation and growing scale of our loan distribution business," the company said in a statement on Friday.
New Delhi: Delhis ruling Aam Admi Party (AAP) has demanded an apology from the Bharatiya Janata Party for allegedly "defaming" former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia over the excise policy case, and claimed that the court has stated in its order that there is "no evidence" to substantiate or corroborate the alleged corruption.

Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi on Sunday said that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia and alleged that "pressure was put on people to give false statements".

Addressing a press conference, Atishi said, "There were two major allegations. First: Rs 100 crore bribe was received. Second: The amount was spent for Goa elections. But the Rouse Avenue court order, through which two people got bail, should be read properly, as it makes it clear that ED and CBI have no evidence of the corruption of even 1 Rupee. The judge repeatedly said in the 86-page order that there is no evidence."

The Delhi Minister claimed that the Rouse Avenue court has stated in the order that there is no "specific evidence" to show the corruption. "The first allegation is that under the corruption, Rs 100 crore was given to AAP through kickbacks. BJP, as well as ED and CBI, were alleging that among those giving kickbacks was present businessman Gautam Malhotra," she said.

Atishi added citing the court order, "There is no specific evidence showing any such cash evidence of bribe or repayment of kickbacks. The only evidence presented has been some vague statements by witnesses, and on the basis of these statements, it cannot be inferred that cash payments were given as bribes."

She further alleged that ED had earlier mentioned Rs 100 crore, but later stated the amount as Rs 30 crore in the chargesheet. "The story of ED started with Rs 100 crore, but then itself came down to Rs 30 crore, as the agency has mentioned Rs 30 crore in its chargesheet. It was also alleged that a person named Rajesh Joshi took these Rs 30 crore of bribes to Goa. The court has also stated that there is no independent evidence collected by the agency to substantiate or corroborate this fact," she said.

The AAP leader also alleged that ED has mentioned only "Rs 19 lakh" being spent by the party during the Goa elections. "The second allegation was the bribe money was used for Goa elections. But, after conducting raids for six months, the court said that only Rs 19 lakh was spent through cash, and the rest was spent through cheque," Atishi added.

Slamming BJP, Atishi demanded the party leaders to apologise for "defaming" the former deputy CM. "Now, we hope that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia. People are being pressurised to give statements. We saw three people take their statement back and alleged being pressurised. It was also alleged that 14 phones were broken, but all those phones are working. Then, Sanjay Singh's name was also brought, but later ED accepted its mistake," she said.

Atishi also said that the party will be appealing for Manish Sisodia's bail. Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is in jail over alleged irregularities in the excise case.

Sisodia was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy in Delhi.

The CBI arrested Sisodia on February 26 this year. Later on March 9, the ED arrested him, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail. Later in April, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also summoned by ED for questioning in the case.

The ED and the CBI had alleged that irregularities were committed while modifying the excise policy, undue favours were extended to licence holders, the licence fee was waived or reduced and the L-1 licence was extended without the competent authority's approval.

The beneficiaries diverted "illegal" gains to the accused officials and made false entries in their account books to evade detection, the probe agencies said.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 4 filed a Supplementary charge sheet against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the Delhi Excise policy case. The supplementary charge has more than 2100 pages. The operating part has 271 pages. The charge has been filed within the stipulated period of 60 days. The CBI has already filed the charge sheet in the matter.
AP EAMCET Exam 2023: Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, JNTU Hyderabad on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education will release the hall ticket soon on the official website, cets.apsche.ap.gov.in. Hall tickets will be available tomorrow, according to the schedule. Candidates must be prepared to input their credentials in order to access the hall ticket URL. Engineering, Agriculture, and Pharmacy exams have been scheduled on different days. Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry are included in the AP EAMCET Engineering Exam Syllabus, whereas Botany, Zoology, Physics, and Chemistry are included in the Agriculture and Pharmacy Exam Syllabus. The exam will be held in two three-hour stints, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

AP EAMCET 2023: Here's how to download

Visit the official website at cets.apsche.ap.gov.in

On the homepage, click on AP EAPCET 2023 admit card link

Key in your login details

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New Delhi: Next year's Republic Day Parade here could see all-women marching and band contingents with authorities working on such a proposal for the ceremonial event to be held at Kartavya Path, defence sources said. The defence ministry, in March, had circulated an office memorandum to the three services and various ministries and departments on the planning for the 2024 parade, they said.

The memorandum mentioned such a proposal being considered and added that a "de-briefing meeting" was held under the chairmanship of the defence secretary in early February, the sources said.

After deliberations, it has been decided that the Republic Day Parade 2024 will have only women participants in the contingents (marching and band), tableaux and other performances during the parade at the Kartavya Path, says the memorandum.

A few all-women contingents, and women officers, including those leading military contingents comprising men, have taken part in the annual parade on Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) in the last few years.

India showcased its military might and vibrant cultural heritage during the 74th Republic Day Parade held on January 26 this year, with 'Nari Shakti' being a dominant theme.

The Indian Air Force marching contingent of 144 air warriors was led by a woman officer, with three supernumerary male officers in the 2023 parade, which was the first Republic Day celebrations held at the ceremonial boulevard since the revamping of the Central Vista and renaming of Rajath last year.

The first Republic Day celebrations were held in 1950 at the Irwin Stadium (renamed Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium), and since 1951, the ceremonial parade has been taking place on Rajpath.

Various states and Union Territories, besides several departments and ministries every year showcase culture and heritage, among other themes, through colourful tableaux.

In the 2023 parade, 'Nari Shakti' was the dominant theme in the tableaux of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Tripura.

The government in recent years has been pushing for a larger role for women in the armed forces.

In a historic first, the Indian Army recently inducted five women officers into its Regiment of Artillery.
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the excise policy scam is 'fake' and that it is a 'desperate' attempt by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to 'malign' his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). His remarks came after a Delhi court on Saturday granted bail to two accused in a money laundering case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in relation to alleged irregularities in the formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. The court said the evidence against the accused -- Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra -- was not sufficient for the case against them to be considered prima facie 'genuine'.

In a tweet, Arvind Kejriwal said, "The whole liquor scam is false. We were saying it from beginning. Now even courts have started saying it. It's a desperate measure by BJP to malign an honest party like AAP."

Earlier on Saturday, senior AAP leader and Delhi Cabinet Minister Atishi said that the court granted bail to the two key accused in the Delhi excise case and reprimanded the ED for making allegations without any corroborative evidence. She said both -- Rajesh Joshi and Gautam Malhotra -- were central figures in the ED's and the CBI's allegations of kickbacks worth Rs 100 crore being spent by AAP in the Goa elections, but they were granted bail on account of no evidence.

Atishi called upon the BJP to come forward and apologise for defaming the Kejriwal-led party and misleading the nation. Over the last year, she said, senior BJP leaders and spokespersons conducted multiple press conferences to claim that an alleged excise policy scam had taken place in Delhi.

The allegations levelled by the BJP on news channels for several months later found their way into the chargesheets filed by the CBI and the ED, she claimed.

Atishi said the ED has levelled two allegations that Rs 100 crore kickbacks were received from liquor businesses and the money was used in the Goa elections.

"The court order said no evidence had been kept forth by the ED showing any cash payment for bribe or kickbacks. The order said the ED attached some vague statements by witnesses," she said.

Providing further details, the Delhi minister said that the chargesheets filed by the agencies claimed Gautam Malhotra was one of the liquor traders who allegedly paid kickbacks worth Rs 100 crore to AAP.

Reading out an excerpt from the court order, she said, "There is no specific evidence showing any such cash payment towards the payment of bribe or repayment of kickbacks."

Atishi added that the ED chargesheet filed in the court has claimed kickbacks worth Rs 30 crore only. "So from claiming a scam worth Rs 100 crore first, the ED on its own later changed the figure to Rs 30 crore. The ED has claimed that it was through Rajesh Joshi that this Rs 30 crore worth of kickbacks first came to Delhi, and then through him, this money travelled from Delhi to Goa," she added.

The Delhi Minister also said that the saffron party should come out and apologise to the nation and say it clearly that they had been 'stating lies' all along to defame the AAP, Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia.

The BJP, however, accused senior AAP leaders of presenting a 'twisted and misleading' reference to the bail order and demanded that a contempt of court proceeding be initiated against them. Its Delhi unit president Virendra Sachdeva accused the ruling AAP of trying to divert public attention from the scams of its government by making irrational statements.
Five cheetahs- three females and two males- will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in Madhya Pradesh's Kuno National Park (KNP) before the onset of the monsoon in June, the Union Environment Ministry said on Monday (May 8). It also said the cheetahs will be allowed to move out of KNP and will not necessarily be "recaptured unless they venture into areas where they are in significant danger." So far, four of the eight cheetahs brought from Namibia have been released from the fenced acclimatisation camps into free-ranging conditions in KNP.

"Five more cheetahs (three females and two males) will be released from the acclimatisation camps into free-roaming conditions in KNP before the onset of the monsoon rains in June," it said in a statement.

The decision was taken after a team of experts reviewed the current status of the "Project Cheetah" on the directions of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). Their expert team said all the cheetahs were in good physical condition, making kills at regular intervals and displaying natural behaviours. Cheetahs were chosen for release based on their behavioural characteristics and approachability by the monitoring teams.

Also read: Indian-Origin Engineer Among Nine Killed In US Mall Shooting

The rest of the cheetahs will remain in the acclimatisation camps for the duration of the monsoon season. "Certain internal gates will be left open to allow these cheetahs to utilise more space and for interactions between specific males and females to take place," the ministry said. The situation will be reviewed after the monsoon season and further releases into KNP or surrounding areas will be done in a planned manner as per the Cheetah Conservation Action Plan to establish metapopulation, it said.

Of the four cheetahs that have already been released into free-ranging conditions, two (Gaurav and Shaurya) have stayed within the park and have not shown any interest in exploring the landscape beyond the borders of the park, according to the statement.

A female cheetah named Aasha has made two exploratory excursions to the east of KNP beyond the buffer zone but has remained within the broader Kuno landscape and has not ventured into human-dominated areas. Another male (Pawan) explored areas well beyond the boundaries of the park on two occasions, venturing into farmland near the border with Uttar Pradesh during his second excursion. He was darted by the veterinary team and returned to an acclimatization camp in KNP.

The ministry said cheetahs, like other large carnivores, are known to range widely during the initial few months after being reintroduced into unfamiliar open systems. "These movements are unpredictable and depend on many factors. After several months, the cheetahs should establish their own communication networks and settle down in relatively fixed home ranges. It is important that individual cheetahs do not become totally isolated from the reintroduced group during this phase as they will then not participate in breeding and will thus be genetically isolated," it said.

Their degree of isolation will be assessed once they settle down and appropriate action will be taken to enhance their connectivity to the group. Several wildlife experts have said that Project Cheetah overestimated the carrying capacity of KNP and linked it to the incidents of Pavan straying out of the national park.

The expert team said it is impossible to determine the precise carrying capacity of cheetahs in KNP until they have properly established their home ranges and that the home ranges of cheetahs can overlap substantially depending on the prey density and several other factors.

"While many have made predictions about the anticipated carrying capacity of cheetahs in KNP based on other ecosystems in Namibia and East Africa, the actual number of animals that the reserve can accommodate can only be assessed after the animals are released and have established home ranges," it said.

"Cheetah home-range sizes and population densities vary tremendously for different cheetah populations in Africa and for obvious reasons, we do not have useful spatial ecology data for cheetahs in India yet," the ministry said.

Under the ambitious Cheetah reintroduction program, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the first batch of eight spotted felines -- five females and three males -- from Namibia into a quarantine enclosure at Kuno in Madhya Pradesh on his 72nd birthday on September 17 last year.

In a second such translocation, 12 cheetahs were flown in from South Africa and released into Kuno on February 18. One of the Namibian cheetahs, Sasha, died due to a kidney-related ailment in March. Another cheetah, Uday, from South Africa died on April 13. On the death of the two cheetahs, the ministry said chronic renal failure is a common problem in captive cheetahs and many other captive felid species, but is not infectious and cannot be transmitted from one animal to another.

An initial examination revealed Uday had most likely died of terminal cardio-pulmonary failure. Failure of the heart and lungs is common in the terminal stages of many conditions and does not provide much information about the underlying cause of the problem, it said.
Srinagar: Rains continue to lash Jammu and Kashmir and fresh snowfall has been received in upper areas of the Valley even as the weather department forecast more precipitation in the next 24 hours. Several areas of Kashmir Valley including Kulgam and Kupwara received intense rainfall and hailstorm since early morning today. It's heavily raining in some parts of the Jammu region as well including the Ramban area also forcing authorities to close the schools for today in the district.

Metrology department officials in Srinagar said that Today is going to be rainy, cloudy, and cold weather in J&K. A significant improvement is very likely from May 9. However, officials said while mainly clear weather was expected on May 9 but rain/thunderstorm in the late afternoon or evening can't be ruled out at some places.

District administration Anantnag has launched a widescale rescue operation to evacuate nearly twenty families stuck alongside their livestock at Margan Top in the Kokernag area, amid ongoing inclement weather conditions across the region. "A joint rescue operation comprising of revenue, police, army, CRPF, Medical, ASH, SRTC was launched to respond to a distress call at Nawkan, near Margan Top," said officials.

10 people including eight tourists have been rescued from the old tunnel area at Qazigund in Kulgam district. Officials have advised the tourists visiting Kashmir Valley to keep warm clothes and eatables ready as the weather is changing frequently in Valley, particularly in higher areas and major tourist destinations.


Shillong: The government of Canada has issued an advisory asking its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the violence-hit north-eastern state of Manipur in India where ethnic clashes have claimed over 50 lives so far. The advisory issued by the Canadian government highlighted the concerns about the safety of its nationals due to ongoing protests and violence in Manipur.

Violent demonstrations have been taking place in Manipur State since May 3, 2023, resulting in casualties. Protests have led to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Curfews have been imposed in several districts and mobile and internet services may be limited, the advisory said.

In view of the violence, the Canadian government has recommended its people to stay away from any unnecessary travel to the north-eastern state of India.

Additionally, it also urged residents currently residing in the state to heed instructions by local authorities, keep an eye on local media for updates, prepare to change their plans in the event of incidents, and prepare for additional security and a stronger police presence.

It further read, You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Under this alert category, Canada advised travellers from the country that their safety and security could be at risk.

Army drones and helicopters have been keeping a close watch on Manipur as curfew was relaxed on Sunday in some parts of the Northeastern state, which was rocked by ethnic violence over the last few days.

So far, 23,000 people have been rescued from the violence-hit areas and were moved to military garrisons, they said. Personnel of the Army and Assam Rifles held flag marches as life started crawling back to somewhat normal, but the tension was palpable on Sunday.

Sources said around 10,000 security personnel have been deployed in the state, which has been on the boil since Wednesday.

The clashes broke out after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the ten hill districts of the state to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which led to the killing of at least 54 people.

Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal valley. Tribals -- Nagas and Kukis -- constitute another 40 per cent of the population and live in the hill districts.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh met with the representatives of the 'Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI)' in the wake of the violence in the State.

Political parties including Congress, NPF, NPP, CPI(M), Aam Aadmi Party and Shiv Sena attended the meeting chaired by Biren Singh himself.
Nadia: Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Ujjal Biswas threatened to cut off the tongue of those speaking ill of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Addressing a meeting at Krishnanagar on Saturday, Biswas said, "Come to school and do not work but still get salaries. We want to showcase your demonstration to the public. Now we want to start an agitation for the people. Rip off his tongue who speaks ill of Mamata Banerjee. This will be the outline for our movement." The development came against the backdrop of protest by the State government employees, demanding the approval of their pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and making contractual posts permanent.

Ujjal Biswas is an MLA from Krishnanagar Dakshin constituency in Nadia district. He is also serving as the acting minister of prisons in the West Bengal government. Attacking the Mamata Banerjee government over Biswas' speech, West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Sukanta Majumdar said the TMC government is "heartless".

Taking to Twitter "We will rip out your tongue if you speak ill of Mamata Banerjee. That will be the norm from now on..' Ujjal Biswas, Minister in Failure CM Mamata Banerjee's cabinet. The minister threatened the government employees demanding a hike in DA. Their demand is legit but the government is heartless," tweeted Sukanta Majumdar. Majumdar also shared a video of the speech of Biswas.
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 23:46 | All, Japan

A coffee can exploded Monday afternoon near a ticket vending machine at a train station in Tokyo, injuring a woman in her 20s who was nearby, authorities said.

Police have taken into custody a Chinese man in his 40s, who they believe placed the can at Nishiarai Station in Adachi Ward, and are questioning him, they said.

The woman appears to have sustained burns to her face and lower body after being doused in a liquid, while a female station employee in her 20s who helped the woman was also sent to hospital after complaining of discomfort in her fingers, according to Tokyo police.

"(The explosion) was not intentional. I put detergent from work in it to use at home," the man was quoted by the police as saying.

Police suspect that the explosion may have been caused by a chemical reaction between the detergent and the material of the can.

A security camera near the ticket vending machine showed the man placing what is believed to be a coffee can nearby before purchasing a commuter pass and leaving within a few minutes, the sources said.

An employee at a store close to the ticket machine said she heard something that sounded like a balloon popping. "A woman nearby was crying. I can't believe something like this happened," she said.

The station operator Tobu Railway Co. said the incident did not impact its train services.
New Delhi: Flipkart Big Savings days sale is live. The e-commerce is offering huge discounts and deals on smartphones including iPhone. The sale will end on May 10. There's a great chance for iPhone fan to buy iPhone 13 at the minimum price with the superb deal during the sale.

iPhone 13 is coming at huge discount

Flipkart is selling Apples iPhone 13 at Rs 57,999 with 17% during the sale. Theres extra off of Rs 11,901. However, you can buy iPhone 13 at a much cheaper price if you apply all offers. These are bank offers 10% instant discount on SBI credit card transactions up to Rs 750 on orders of Rs 5000 and above. Theres special price of getting extra Rs 11901 off. If you pruchase it with exchange, you will get off upto Rs 26,250.

iPhone 13 Specs

Display: 6.1-inch or 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR display

Processor: A15 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU

Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB

RAM: 4GB

Rear Cameras: Dual 12MP ultra-wide and wide cameras, Night mode, Deep Fusion, Sensor-shift optical image stabilization

Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth camera, Night mode, Slow-motion video

Video Recording: 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording up to 60fps

Battery: Up to 22 hours of talk time (iPhone 13), up to 28 hours of talk time (iPhone 13 Pro)

Water and Dust Resistance: Rated IP68

Operating System: iOS 15

Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Lightning port

Colors: Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight (iPhone 13); Graphite, Gold, Silver, Sierra Blue (iPhone 13 Pro)
BEIJING: China's Defence Minister Gen. Li Shangfu told Pakistan's naval chief Amjad Khan Niazi on Monday that the two all-weather friends should seek new areas of military cooperation and jointly safeguard their security interests and region. Li said the relations between the militaries of the two countries are an important part of China-Pakistan relations, and cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including the two navies, has achieved good results.

Li said the militaries of the two countries should expand exchanges in new areas, create new cooperation highlights, and work together to safeguard the security interests of both countries and the region, a defence ministry statement here said. Observers say Sino-Pakistan military cooperation in recent years focussed more on the navy as China gradually stepped up its naval presence in India's backyard, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea where it is developing Pakistan's Gwadar port.

Besides acquiring four modern naval frigates from China, Pakistan will also be getting eight Chinese submarines as part of the efforts to modernisation, Admiral Niazi told the Chinese media during his visit earlier. Indian Navy Chief Admiral Kumar said last month that Pakistan Navy is modernising itself at a good pace and seeks to become a 50-platform force in 10-15 years, and they are adding new corvettes and frigates to their fleet.

Niazi's visit is part of a flurry of high-level visits between the two countries this month amid Pakistan's deepening economic and political crisis and reports of leaked documents highlighting deliberations in the Pakistan establishment on whether to move closer to the US to balance ties with China.

Early this month, Pakistan's Army chief Gen Asim Munir made his maiden visit to Beijing during which he met senior Chinese Generals and top diplomat Wang Yi who is the Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.

During Gen. Munir's visit, China's new Premier Li Qiang also held his first phone call with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised continued financial help for Pakistan which is facing a serious political and economic crisis. It was followed by Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang's visit to Islamabad on May 5-6 during which he also met Army chief Gen. Munir.

The visits followed reports in the US and Pakistan media quoting two Pakistani memos pointing to a deliberation in the country's political and military establishment to open up relations with the US to balance ties with China.

In one of the memos, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar warned that Pakistan can "no longer try to maintain a middle ground between China and the United States."
WASHINGTON: Joe Biden served in the Senate for 270 years. He used to be three years older than his sister Valerie, but now has 20 years on her. And the fourth U.S. president  whom Biden affectionally calls "Jimmy" Madison  is a good friend. All kidding aside, the 80-year-old Biden will tell you, he is at the end of his career, not the beginning. He's been doing this for a long time. And he's gotten a "hell of a lot of wisdom" over those years, making him deserving of a second term. As Biden, the oldest president in U.S. history, embarks on his reelection campaign, he is increasingly musing aloud about his advanced age, cracking self-deprecating jokes and framing his decades in public life as a plus, hoping to convince voters his age is an asset rather than a vulnerability. In short, he's trying to own it.

"I stand here humbled being the first sitting president of the United States to have an opportunity to speak at Ebenezer Sunday service," Biden said in January at the historic Atlanta church where Martin Luther King, Jr. was the co-pastor. "You've been around for 136 years. I know I look like it, but I haven't."

The octogenarian president's comments about his age can be serious, woven into broader remarks and often used to underscore a broader point.

When Biden told the Irish parliament last month that he has never been more optimistic about the future, he notably added, "And I'm at the end of my career, not the beginning."

"The only thing I bring to this career after my age  as you can see how old I am  but is a little bit of wisdom," Biden continued to the approving crowd. "I come to the job with more experience than any president in American history. It doesn't make me better or worse, but it gives me few excuses."

Other times, Biden  his mood buoyed by a crowd full of supporters, whether among Democratic lawmakers or at a lively union hall  is often speaking off-the-cuff, eager to make the audience laugh by poking a little fun at himself. At the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner on April 29, Biden made his age an early  and frequent  punchline.

"You guys were founded 122 years ago  that's not when I got endorsed," Biden told a crowd of machine operators and engineers with the International Union of Operating Engineers in Accokeek, Md., in April.

He referenced "my career of 280 years here" at a Black History Month reception before being interrupted by laughter, and at an Air Force event last month, Biden noted that President Dwight Eisenhower addressed the first class of the Air Force Academy more than six decades ago but that "I wasn't there ... no matter what the press says."

Whether deliberate or candid, it's nonetheless a strategy that evokes how Ronald Reagan defused questions about his age  then 73  during the 1984 campaign. In a debate against 56-year-old Democrat Walter Mondale, Reagan pledged he would not make age an issue nor "exploit, for political purposes, my opponent's youth and inexperience."

Biden is "doing exactly what he should be doing. He's embracing it, he's having fun with it, he's doing exactly what Ronald Reagan did  injecting humor and self-deprecation into it," said Michael LaRosa, a former press secretary for first lady Jill Biden who also worked on the president's 2020 campaign. "By saying the quiet part out loud, everyone is in on the joke. He knows his age, and he's not pretending to be somebody he's not. And that's the most important quality in a candidate."

The president could also find himself with a general election challenger nearly as old as he is, potentially neutralizing the issue of his own age. Donald Trump, the leading Republican candidate, is 76 years old, although voters have shown less concern about his age and sharpness compared to that of Biden, according to some polls. Trump, for his part, insists the issue is "not age"  it's Biden's mental acuity.

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, struggling to gain traction in the still-forming GOP primary field, has consistently made Biden's age a centerpiece of her campaign  even going as far as saying he may not make it to the end of his second term, when he'll be 86 years old.

Biden's personal doctor said after the president's most recent physical exam in February that Biden "remains a healthy, vigorous 80-year-old male, who is fit to successfully execute the duties of the Presidency."

Still, the public remains wary about Biden's capacity to do his job. A majority  57%  of voters in last year's midterm elections said they did not think Biden "has the mental capability to serve effectively as president," according to AP VoteCast, an extensive survey of the 2022 electorate. Forty-one percent of voters said Biden did.

About 9 in 10 Republicans, along with about 2 in 10 Democrats, said they thought Biden doesn't have the mental capability to serve as president. Among Democrats, though, voters under 45 were roughly twice as likely as older voters to say they thought Biden doesn't have the mental capability, 27% vs. 13%.

An April poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showed a notable chasm between the percentage of Democrats who approve of Biden's job performance  78%  and those who wanted him to run again, which was at just 47%. Interviews with poll respondents suggested that the gulf was due in big part to the president's age.

Biden's aides have long dismissed such concerns. To counter the age questions, his reelection campaign is likely to stress his accomplishments to highlight his fitness to do the job, while underscoring the with-age-comes-experience argument that Biden himself likes to make.

"Part of President Biden's argument for reelection is that he has decades of experience," said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del. "I think if he can balance the occasional self-deprecating joke with showing the kind of agility, engagement, casual approach to this issue that he did at the correspondents' dinner, that he did in the State of the Union, that he has in meetings with small groups of senators in public and in private, I think that's an asset."

In a new MSNBC interview last week, Biden again dismissed concerns about his age, saying, "I have acquired a hell of a lot of wisdom and know more than the vast majority of people."

Biden's advisers also note that his age surfaced as an issue in the 2020 campaign and did not derail his path to the White House. Some of his more nominal challengers in that year's Democratic presidential primary, such as former Housing and Urban Development secretary Julian Castro and former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan, made veiled references to Biden's age and mental acuity, but that did not gain traction among other candidates. (One of them, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is older than Biden.)

Biden has conceded in the past that his age is a legitimate issue for voters, and said shortly after his reelection announcement that he took a "hard look" at that before he formalized his decision to run for a second term.

"If I guess how old I am, I can't even say the number. It doesn't -- it doesn't register with me," he said at a news conference with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol last month. "But the only thing I can say is that one of the things that people are going to find out  they're going to see a race, and they're going to judge whether or not I have it or don't have it."
India should by 2027 ban the use of diesel-powered four-wheelers in cities with over 10 lakh population and switch to electric and gas-fuelled vehicles, according to a report commissioned by the oil ministry. The report of the committee headed by former Oil Secretary Tarun Kapoor also suggested phasing out motorcycles, scooters, and three-wheelers with internal combustion engines by 2035. There should be no diesel city buses added in urban areas in about 10 years, the panel which submitted its report to the government in February this year, said. The government is yet to accept the report.

"EVs may be promoted as the optimal solution in preparing for phasing out internal combustion engine two / three wheel vehicles by 2035. In the intermediate period, policy support for ethanol-blended fuel with an increasing blend ratio needs to be given," the report said.

It called for four-wheelers, including passenger cars and taxis, to partially shift to electric and partially to ethanol-blended petrol with almost 50 percent share in each category. "Diesel-driven 4-wheelers may be eliminated as soon as possible. Therefore, a ban on diesel-powered four-wheelers in all million-plus cities and all towns with high pollution has to be enforced in five years, i.e. By 2027," the report said.

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For transitioning to EVs, CNG as a transition fuel (up to 10-15 years) has been emphasised. "Vehicles with flex-fuel capabilities and hybrids may be promoted in the short and medium terms. This can be done through the application of fiscal tools like taxation," it said.

To boost electric vehicle use in the country, the report said the government should consider a "targeted extension" of incentives given under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles scheme (FAME) beyond March 31.

The report favoured new registrations of only electric-powered city delivery vehicles from 2024 and suggested higher use of railways and gas-powered trucks for the movement of cargo. These steps will help India achieve the goal of cutting its emissions to net zero by 2070. Net zero, or becoming carbon neutral, means not adding to the amount of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere.

India is the world's fourth biggest emitter of carbon dioxide after China, the US, and the EU. But its huge population means its emissions per capita are much lower than other major world economies. India emitted 1.9 tonnes of CO2 per head of population in 2019, compared with 15.5 tonnes for the US and 12.5 tonnes for Russia that year.

Towards net zero, the government has set a target to get 50 percent of the nation's energy from renewable resources by 2030, and by the same year to reduce total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes.

For transition, it is looking to boost the use of natural gas, which is less polluting than liquid fuels like diesel, in industries and automobiles. India aims to raise the share of natural gas in its energy mix to 15 percent by 2030 from 6.7 percent now.

The report said petrol and diesel demand in India is expected to peak in 2040 and decline post that due to the electrification of vehicles. LPG demand is expected to decline after 2030 due to the electrification of cooking and reduce to zero with 100 percent electrification by 2070.

The demand for aviation fuel will continue to grow at 3.5 percent CAGR but will be gradually substituted by sustainable fuel. Naphtha demand is expected to rise at 4.5 percent CAGR (2030-50) and 2.3 percent compound annual growth rate CAGR (2050-70) because of increasing demand for petrochemicals.

"The rate of transition in fossil fuel consumption is primarily dependent on the shift in the auto sector to EVs. With an aggressive transition to EVs due to policy mandates, there will be accelerated repurposing/closure of refineries for renewable energy/biofuel production and reduction of overall carbon footprint," it said.
The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine the plea of a 72-year-old woman, on whom a male co-passenger urinated on board an Air India flight in November last year, seeking a direction to the Centre, aviation regulator DGCA and airlines to frame an SOP to deal with such incidents. A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala took note of the plea of the woman and issued notices to the Centre, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and all airlines, including Air India.

The top court also sought the assistance of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was present in the case, in formulating the standard operating procedure (SOP) and fixed the plea for hearing after the summer vacation in July.

The woman had filed a PIL in March saying she was constrained to approach the top court because Air India and the DGCA failed to treat her with care and responsibility after the incident. On January 31, a Delhi court had granted bail to Shankar Mishra, accused of urinating on the woman co-passenger on the Air India flight from New York to Delhi.

The trial court had granted the relief to Mishra on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and a surety of the like amount. It had also imposed various conditions on him, including that he will not tamper with evidence, influence any witnesses or contact them in any manner.

Mishra was also asked not to leave the country without the court's prior permission and to join the investigation and trial as and when called by the investigating officer or the court concerned.

Mishra was arrested from Bengaluru on January 6 and sent to judicial custody by a court here on January 7. He allegedly urinated on the woman in an intoxicated condition in the business class of the Air India flight on November 26 last year.
An Indian Air Force MiG-21 fighter aircraft has crashed near Hanumangarh, Rajasthan during its routine morning sortie on May 8, 2023. The aircraft had taken off from the Suratgarh Air Force Station of the Sri Ganganagar District in Rajasthan. While the pilot walked out of the incident safely, the death of three civilians has been confirmed by the local police as the plane crash-landed on a house. According to sources, the pilot is safe and a military helicopter has reached the accident site for rescue. Three women were killed and three more were injured in the crash.

The pilot ejected from the plane and is undergoing treatment at the Suratgarh military hospital, reported PTI, quoting Om Prakash, IG, Bikaner range. The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, he said "Three women have died in the incident and three others are injured," he said. In a statement, the IAF said, "A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning".

A MiG-21 aircraft of the IAF crashed near Suratgarh during a routine training sortie today morning. The pilot ejected safely, sustaining minor injuries.

An inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident. May 8, 2023

SP, Hanumangarh, Sudheer Chaudhary said the plane crashed on the house of one Ratti Ram, killing his wife Basho Kaur and two other women identified as Leela Devi and Banto Kaur, reported PTI. Burn injuries led to the death of the women, he said, adding three people were also injured. According to initial reports, the house of Ratti Ram was completely damaged besides some nearby houses.

A local resident said he heard a loud sound and saw a parachute coming down. Within seconds, the plane crashes on the house of Ratti Ram and wood stored in the house caught fire. "Local people immediately started efforts to douse flames with the help of water and sand. Fire brigade and police reached the spot and the women were taken to a hospital," the local resident told reporters in Hanumangarh.

#WATCH | IAF and Rajasthan police officials at the spot in Hanumangarh where a MiG-21 fighter aircraft crashed, leaving 3 civilians dead



The pilot sustained minor injuries in the incident. pic.twitter.com/LJrxkJ9JaM  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

Soon after the incident, locals gathered at the spot in large numbers. The Indian Air Force has ordered a court of inquiry to ascertain the cause of the accident. The MiG-21 fleet is on its last leg and all the remaining three aircraft from the fleet are planned to be poached out by 2025, stated ANI.

Earlier in January 2023, one pilot lost his life after two Indian Air Force fighter jets - a Sukhoi Su-30 and a Mirage 2000 - crashed during a training exercise in Rajasthan's Bharatpur. While one aircraft crashed in Morena in Madhya Pradesh, the other crashed and landed in Rajasthan's Bharatpur.

On July 28 last year, Defence Ministry informed that two pilots in a twin-seater Mig-21 trainer aircraft died after sustaining fatal injuries when it crashed near Barmer district of Rajasthan.
Private airline Myanmar Airways International (MAI) has commenced direct non-stop flights between Chennai and Yangon, boosting connectivity between the two countries, the airliner said on Sunday. An Embraer E190LR aircraft with a seating capacity of 98 seats -- six in business class and 92 in economy -- would be operated between the two cities. Chennai is the latest city to be served by MAI after Delhi, Kolkata and Gaya. On its arrival at Chennai airport on Saturday, the maiden flight was welcomed with a traditional water salute by officials of the Airports Authority of India, among others, a press release said.

The launch of new flights in 2023 also marks 75 years of cordial ties between India and Myanmar, it said. Nearly 48 passengers arrived in Chennai from Yangon while 70 passengers travelled from Chennai to Yangon on the inaugural flight.

Honorary consul of Myanmar Professor Ranganathan J along with Chennai Airport Director S S Raju formally inaugurated the launch of the service by lighting a traditional lamp at the international departure terminal in the city.

With the launch of non-stop flights of Myanmar Airways International, travellers from Chennai can easily visit tourist destinations in the neighbouring country including Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Ngapali Beach among others.

The new flight connection is aimed at mutually benefiting and improving trade as well as the health and leisure tourism sectors of both countries The flights will be operated every Saturday and the aircraft will depart from Yangon at 8 AM local time and arrive in Chennai at 10.15 AM. In the return direction, the flight from Chennai will leave at 11.15 AM and arrive in Yangon at 3.15 PM.

Myanmar Airways International currently operates in 18 international destinations and 18 domestic destinations and has seamless interline arrangements with 34 carriers, a company release said.

Myanmar Airlines International is represented by the STIC Travel Group in the country.
New Delhi: Bollywood is always buzzing with one or another interesting scoop from a celebrity's life. One such scoop that has been making headlines today is about Anil Kapoors upcoming film with actress Divya Khosla Kumar and Harshvardhan Rane. As per some media reports, this trio is shooting for an intense love drama in London. It is said to be a start-to-end schedule these actors are working on. There is also news about the story having a love triangle between Anil, Divya, and Harshvardhan. Well, this part of the information is NOT TRUE!

As per a source, there is no angle of two men being in Divyas characters life. The film is a thriller, and there is no love triangle between the three actors. In fact, the story is very different and interesting. So all speculations can rest until any official details are revealed.

The film is currently on floors in London. The shoot is in full swing. It is directed by Abhinay Deo, and produced by Vishesh Films.
Mother's Day is held on the second Sunday of May, so every year the date changes. While some countries celebrate the occasion on other dates, in India, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, May's second Sunday is celebrated as Mother's Day. While every day is technically a day when mothers should be celebrated, this is a special occasion when we show our love and appreciation for our mothers and mother figures in our lives.

Mother's Day Date In 2023

This time in 2023, Mother's Day will be observed on May 14, which is the second Sunday of May 2023. Mother's Day will be observed on Sunday, May 12, 2024.

Mother's Day 2023: History

In ancient times, Greeks and Romans held festivals in honour of mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele. So while we can trace the history back to olden times, the modern Mother's Day version finds in roots in the early 20th century United States. Anna Jarvis (1864-1948) was an American activist who wanted to celebrate her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who worked as a community health advocate. Inspired by her mother's tireless work, and the sacrifices and role all mothers play in general, Anna began campaigning for a national day of recognition for mothers in the early 1900s. She was successful in her endeavour and the day become an official holiday in the United States in 1914 when Woodrow Wilson - the 28th President of the United States of America - signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day. This was how it all began.

Mother's Day 2023: Significance

While different customs and cultures may prevail in different countries, the sentiment behind the celebration of Mother's Day remains the same - a day when we express our love and gratitude for our mothers, for their tireless efforts to bring up their children, the constant caretaking and being the biggest supporter of their kids. It's a day to acknowledge the unconditional love that they have for their children - it's often touted as the biggest love that humans know of.

Mother's Day In India

Mothers have always been revered in the country and this is another day when people show their love and gratitude for their moms. And it's not just mothers - biological or adoptive - Mother's Day also celebrates the mother-like figure in our lives - grandmothers, aunts, and mothers-in-law. India also celebrates Mother's Day on the second Sunday of May.
NEW DELHI: Delhis Rouse Avenue Court on Monday extended AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodias judicial custody till May 23 in connection with the ongoing probe by the Enforcement Directorate in the excise policy case.

The central agency had on Saturday submitted before the court that due to activities of the present accused Sisodia, a proceed of the crime of Rs 622 crores was generated in the case related to the excise policy.

The court also listed listed the supplementary chargesheet filed against AAP leader for consideration on May 10. The court also asked the ED to file the soft copy of the supplementary chargesheet on CD/DVD/Pen drive by May 8. The ED had earlier filed a 2,000-page chargesheet against jailed former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister for the first time.

Earlier, Delhi's ruling AAP claimed that the BJP should apologise for defaming Manish Sisodia since no evidence of corruption has been found by the ED and the CBI.

Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court extends Manish Sisodia's judicial custody in the ED case of excise policy matter till May 23.  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

The AAP claimed that the court has stated in its order that there is "no evidence" to substantiate or corroborate the alleged corruption. Delhi Minister and AAP leader Atishi on Sunday said that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia and alleged that "pressure was put on people to give false statements".

Addressing a press conference, Atishi said, "There were two major allegations. First: Rs 100 crore bribe was received. Second: The amount was spent for Goa elections. But the Rouse Avenue court order, through which two people got bail, should be read properly, as it makes it clear that ED and CBI have no evidence of the corruption of even 1 Rupee. The judge repeatedly said in the 86-page order that there is no evidence."

The Delhi Minister claimed that the Rouse Avenue court has stated in the order that there is no "specific evidence" to show the corruption. "The first allegation is that under the corruption, Rs 100 crore was given to AAP through kickbacks. BJP, as well as ED and CBI, were alleging that among those giving kickbacks was present businessman Gautam Malhotra," she said.

Atishi added citing the court order, "There is no specific evidence showing any such cash evidence of bribe or repayment of kickbacks. The only evidence presented has been some vague statements by witnesses, and on the basis of these statements, it cannot be inferred that cash payments were given as bribes."

She further alleged that ED had earlier mentioned Rs 100 crore, but later stated the amount as Rs 30 crore in the chargesheet. "The story of ED started with Rs 100 crore, but then itself came down to Rs 30 crore, as the agency has mentioned Rs 30 crore in its chargesheet. It was also alleged that a person named Rajesh Joshi took these Rs 30 crore of bribes to Goa. The court has also stated that there is no independent evidence collected by the agency to substantiate or corroborate this fact," she said.

The AAP leader also alleged that ED has mentioned only "Rs 19 lakh" being spent by the party during the Goa elections. "The second allegation was the bribe money was used for Goa elections. But, after conducting raids for six months, the court said that only Rs 19 lakh was spent through cash, and the rest was spent through cheque," Atishi added.

Slamming BJP, Atishi demanded the party leaders to apologise for "defaming" the former deputy CM. "Now, we hope that BJP leaders should do a press conference and apologise to the nation, for peddling lies for defaming Manish Sisodia. People are being pressurised to give statements. We saw three people take their statement back and alleged being pressurised. It was also alleged that 14 phones were broken, but all those phones are working. Then, Sanjay Singh's name was also brought, but later ED accepted its mistake," she said.

Atishi also said that the party will be appealing for Manish Sisodia's bail. Former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is in jail over alleged irregularities in the excise case.

Sisodia's Arrest In Liquor Scam Case

Sisodia was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy in Delhi.

The CBI arrested Sisodia on February 26 this year. Later on March 9, the ED arrested him, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail. Later in April, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also summoned by ED for questioning in the case.

The ED and the CBI had alleged that irregularities were committed while modifying the excise policy, undue favours were extended to licence holders, the licence fee was waived or reduced and the L-1 licence was extended without the competent authority's approval. The beneficiaries diverted "illegal" gains to the accused officials and made false entries in their account books to evade detection, the probe agencies said.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on May 4 filed a Supplementary charge sheet against former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the Delhi Excise policy case. The supplementary charge has more than 2100 pages. The operating part has 271 pages. The charge has been filed within the stipulated period of 60 days. The CBI has already filed the charge sheet in the matter.
KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 20:29 | All, Japan

Fifty students at an elementary school in Osaka Prefecture were taken to hospital on Monday after they complained of feeling unwell due to a gas smell, local authorities said.

All are conscious and none are considered to be in a serious condition, according to police, who received a report from firefighters around 10:05 a.m. that a gas odor had been detected at Kamei Elementary School in the city of Yao.

Osaka Gas Co. investigated the incident at the school, but was unable to identify the cause of the smell.

"Everyone in the class was saying it smelled bad," a girl in the fourth grade said, calling the experience "scary."

Several ambulances and fire engines were seen on the school grounds, with residents in the area watching as firefighters scurried in and out of the school building.

"I came because I was worried," said a mother whose son is a sixth-grade student at the school, adding she wanted to "bring him home quickly."

A 67-year-old man, whose grandchild is in the third grade, said he rushed to the school after seeing the news on television.

"There has been no information from the school, and I don't know what has happened," he said.

Classes were resumed after the building was confirmed safe at around 10:45. The school told parents and guardians that it would provide counseling for students who are anxious or concerned.
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday came down heavily on Tihar Central Jail officials for failing to stop the brutal murder of gangster Tillu Tajpuriya by rival gang members inside the high-security prison last week. The high court, while seeking a status report from the Tihar administration regarding the brutal murder, also directed the Jail Superintendent to be personally present in the court.

Delhi High Court Justice Jasmeet Singh said the brutal murder inside the high-security prison is ''unacceptable'' and said that the court is unable to comprehend why no steps were taken by authorities if the incident was captured on CCTV cameras inside the jail. The judge himself saw the shocking CCTV footage, which showed the 33-year-old gagster being forcibly taken out of his cell and being stabbed to death.

The High Court said that it was a "totally unacceptable state of affairs" and also questioned the jail authorities over the recovery of four knives from Tihar premises where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was stabbed to death.

Responding to a plea by Tajpuriya's father and brother seeking a CBI probe, The High Court also ordered the Delhi Police to consider providing security to them. The court also directed the public prosecutor to explain the responsibility and accountability of the officers responsible for the lapse.

CCTV Footage Of Tillu Tajpuriya Murder Emerges

The two shocking CCTV footage from inside Delhis Tihar Central Jail showing dreaded gangster Tillu Tajpuriya being brutally stabbed to death by his rival gang members surfaced last week. The CCTV footage obtained by the Delhi Police shows the three killers pulling Tajpuriya out from his cell and assaulting him. The killers can be seen stabbing and attacking him multiple times leaving him in a pool of blood.

The footage recorded around 6:10 AM on May 2 shows the assailants forcibly taking Tillu Tajpuriya out of his cell and brutally kicking, assaulting and stabbing him to death. Some prisoners can be seen in the video, but no one was able to stop the attackers.

Gangster Tillu Tajpuriya, an accused in Delhi`s Rohini court shootout case, was killed by rival gang members in Tihar jail on May 2.

According to the prison officials, Tillu Tajpuriya was immediately taken to Delhi`s Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Meanwhile, the case has now been transferred to a special cell for investigation. The case was registered in Hari Nagar police station under sections 302 and 307 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Tamil Nadu DGP C Sylendra Babu orders probe into the Delhi Tihar Jail incident where gangster Tillu Tajpuriya was murdered when a few Tamil Nadu TSP personnel stand as mute spectators. ADGP HM Jayaram is visiting Tihar jail to investigate this today: Tamil Nadu Special Force https://t.co/ZzlxK7rAay  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

Members of the rival gang namely Deepak Teeter, Yogesh alias Tunda, Rajesh and Riyaz Khan had around 6:15 am cut open the iron grill installed on the first floor of the ward using an improvised saw.

According to a prison official, the accused were lodged on the first floor of the same ward and they used an iron rod to attack Tajpuriya. Tajpuriya, a resident of Delhi who headed the infamous Tillu gang, was arrested in 2016 for multiple crimes and had been in jail ever since.

Sunil Balyan alias Tajpuriya was the main accused in the Rohini court shootout case in September 2021 which left his friend-turned-rival gangster Jitender Maan alias Gogi dead. The shooters, alleged associates of Tajpuriya had come dressed in lawyer`s clothes and gunned Gogoi dead inside a courtroom in Rohini court. The two gunmen were immediately shot dead by the police team.

Tajpuriya and his gangs rivalry with another gang led by notorious gangster, Jitender Gogi dates back to 2009 when the pair were friends but supported different candidates in elections in Swami Shraddhanand College in Outer Delhi.
TN HSE +2 Result 2023: Tamil Nadu +2 Result 2023 is set to release today, May 8 on the official website. The result will be announced at 9:30 a.m., according to the Tamil Nadu HSC result 2023 Date and Time listed on the official website. DGETN will issue the TN HSE Plus 2 Result link 2023 on the official website-tnresults.nic.in after the result is released via press conference. Students will be needed to give their roll number and date of birth, as well as any other information requested while seeing the results. According to the latest information, the TN 12th result 2023 for all streams will be announced at a press conference. The conference will be held in the Anna Centenary Library Conference beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education Qualifying marks are set at 35%, which equates to 35 marks in each theory course. The marks for the topics involving practicals are as follows: 70 points for Theory, 20 points for Practical, and 10 points for Internals.

TN DGE +2 HSC results: Here's how To Check

Go the official website-tnresults.nic.in

On the appeared homepage, click on the Tamil Nadu HSE +2 result 2023 link

A new login page would open

Enter your roll number and date of birth

Access the TN HSC mark sheet and download the same

Take a printout for the future references

Tamil Nadu Board Result 2023 12th is expected to be released today for around 8.51 lakh students from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry who registered. 5.36 lakh students took the Science stream exam, about 2.54 lakh students took the Commerce stream exam, and approximately 14,000 students took the Arts stream exam.
UPSC Prelims 2023 Admit Card: Union Public Service Commission, UPSC Prelims 2023 Admit Card is expected to be released soon on the official website. According to previous patterns, the UPSC Civil Services admit card would be available this week on the official websites upsc.gov.in and upsconline.nic.in. According to the official notification for the UPSC CSE Exam 2023, students will receive their prelims admit card three weeks before the exam. As a result, the UPSC Prelims admission card is scheduled to be released this week.

The UPSC Civil Services Prelims are slated for May 28, 2023. The UPSC CSE Exam is estimated to attract approximately 11 lakh participants. Meanwhile, UPSC is likely to announce the UPSC Civil Services 2022 Final Result by June 2023. The last round of candidate interviews will be held on May 18, 2023.

UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2023: Here's how to download

Visit the official website  upsconline.nic.in

On the homepage, click on the link for UPSC Admit Card for the Civil Services Prelims exam

A new page will open, enter your registration number, date of birth, and other details

Your UPSC Prelims Admit Card will be displayed on the screen

Download and take a printout for future reference.

The UPSC main test will be held on September 15th. The UPSC test registration period ended on February 21, 2023. Candidates had the opportunity to make changes to their exam forms from February 22 through February 28, 2023. 1105 vacant posts in various government ministries will be filled through the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
Jaipur: The ruling Congress in Rajasthan on Monday won four seats, the BJP eight and the independents two in the urban local body by-elections held for 14 seats in 12 districts of the state. The polls were held on Sunday and the results were announced Monday. In a statement, State Election Commissioner Madhukar Gupta said, "Out of a total 14 ward councillors, eight candidates have been elected from the Bharatiya Janata Party, four candidates from the Congress and two candidates have been elected as independents."

BJP state president C P Joshi congratulated party workers for the victory, saying people have sounded the bugle against the Congress rule in the state. "The result proved that the people have sounded the bugle against the misrule, corruption and jungle raj of the Congress," Joshi said. "The results of the municipal by-elections have proved that the countdown for the Gehlot government has begun," he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Monday asked Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to clarify his remark Vasundhara Raje helped save his government during the 2020-party revolt, saying it was an "irresponsible" statement. Gehlot, while addressing a programme in Dholpur on Sunday, had claimed he survived the 2020-revolt by some Congress MLAs because BJP leaders Vasundhara Raje and Kailash Meghwal refused to support a conspiracy to topple his elected government through money power.

However, Union Jal Shakti Minister Shekhawat did not buy the remark and asked Gehlot to clarify how he was helped. "Vasundhara Raje is our senior leader. She has been the Chief Minister two times and has also been the state president twice. He gave such an irresponsible statement only for his political benefit and to give a message to his opponents," Shekhawat said.

"I ask Ashok Gehlot to make full disclosure of when, where, and in what way he was supported," Shekhawat said at a press conference here. In her turn, Raje said that Gehlot's "praise" was a "big conspiracy" against her and accused him of lying because of rebellion in his party and its diminishing mass base.

Shekhawat said that if Gehlot had evidence to support his claim - that BJP gave money to Congress MLAs - then he should register an FIR against the parties involved. He also said the leaders of his party were exploring legal ways to challenge Gehlot's assertion.
New Delhi: Hours after Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot claimed he survived the 2020-revolt by some Congress MLAs because Vasundhara Raje refused to support a conspiracy to topple an elected government through money power, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader on Sunday called it a 'big conspiracy'. Raje, in a statement on Sunday night, also said that Gehlot's allegations are 'outrageous and untrue'. Her reaction came after Gehlot said that he as the state party chief did not support the toppling of the BJP government led by Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as it was unfair, in the same manner, Raje and another BJP leader Kailash Meghwal said that there is no tradition in Rajasthan to topple an elected government.

However, Vasundhara Raje termed Gehlot's 'praises' for her as a 'big conspiracy' and said he 'has made such outrageous and untrue allegations because of the rebellion happening in his own party and diminishing mass base'. The BJP leader said that no one can insult her as much as Gehlot did in his life.

To avoid a historic defeat in the 2023 assembly elections, he is creating such fabricated stories, which is unfortunate and not going to be successful, Raje said.

In her statement, she also said that giving and accepting bribes are crimes and if Congress MLAs have taken money, then FIR should be lodged.

Gehlot has accused Home Minister (Amit) Shah but Shah's honesty and integrity are well known, she said.

Earlier on Sunday, Gehlot addressed a programme in Rajasthan's Dholpur and said, "If I wanted, Bhairon Singh Ji's government could have been toppled. I said this was unethical work. The man who is ill, he is getting treatment in America, his condition was very critical and leaders of his party were conspiring to topple his government behind him."

He added that Meghwal and Raje also said the same thing.

"They said that we have never had a tradition to bring down elected governments on money power... What wrong did he do?," the Rajasthan CM said.

Gehlot also took potshots at the rebel Congress MLAs, saying they should return the money they had taken from the BJP so that they can carry out their duty without any pressure.

He also praised Shobharani Kushwah who had cross-voted in favour of the Congress candidate in the Rajya Sabha election last year. Dholpur MLA Kushwah was subsequently suspended by the BJP for cross-voting.

She was a bold lady, Gehlot said and added that 'when Shobharani supported us, it shocked BJP leaders'.

He also claimed that she listened to Raje and Meghwal and her conscience said that she should not support 'those people'.

"That's why our government was saved. I can never forget this incident in my life, which happened with me," the Congress leader stated.

Gehlot also alleged that Union Ministers Amit Shah, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Dharmendra Pradhan had conspired together to topple his government.

They distributed money in Rajasthan and they are not taking the money back now. I am surprised why they are not demanding the money back from them (the Congress MLAs who had revolted), he claimed.

"I have even told the MLAs that whatever money they have taken, Rs 10 crore or Rs 20 crore, if you have spent anything, I will give that part or I will get it from AICC (All India Congress Committee)," Gehlot said.

The Rajasthan chief minister further alleged that if the MLAs did not return the money, they will always be under pressure from Shah.

"He is the Union home minister, he will intimidate... In Maharashtra he divided Shiv Sena," he said.

It is notable that Gehlot then deputy Sachin Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs had revolted against his leadership in July 2020. The month-long crisis ended after the intervention of the party's high command. Pilot was then removed as the deputy chief minister and state Congress president.
Malappuram: The death toll in the Malappuram boat capsize incident rose to 22 on Monday, the Regional Fire Range Officer said. The incident happened in the Malappuram district in Kerala, where a tourist boat capsized near the Tanur coast.

While talking to ANI, Regional Fire Range Officer Shiju KK said, "So far, we have recovered 21 dead bodies. We don't know the exact number of people on the boat, so we are continuing the search to find out whether there are more victims trapped in the mud or not."

Several vehicles reached the spot and started the rescue operation. Meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George called an emergency meeting of the State Health Department at midnight following the incident. He directed the officials to ensure better treatment for the injured.

The health minister has directed better treatment for the injured and speeding up the post-mortem process. The minister has also given strict instructions to start the post-mortem at 6 am on Monday. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday condoled the loss of lives in the Malappuram boat capsize incident and ordered the effective coordination of rescue operations.

"Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Tanur boat accident in Malappuram. Have directed the District administration to effectively coordinate rescue operations, which are being overseen by Cabinet Ministers. Heartfelt condolences to the grieving families & friends" said CM Pinarayi Vijayan in a tweet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the deceased's next of kin. "Pained by the loss of lives due to the boat mishap in Malappuram, Kerala. Condolences to the bereaved families. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased: PM @narendramodi," said a tweet from th Prime Minister's office on Sunday night.
The Election Commission of India on Monday issued a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge asking the party to provide clarification on the party chairperson Sonia Gandhi's 'Karnataka sovereignty' remark. The poll body also asked the Congress party to take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the Official Twitter handle of the Indian National Congress. The Election Commission's letter comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party filed a complaint against Gandhi.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) filed a complaint with the Election Commission demanding immediate action against former Congress president Sonia Gandhi over her remarks that her party will now allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's 'sovereignty' at a recent poll rally. In the run-up to the Karnataka Assembly polls, the BJP also has asked the commission to direct the filing of an FIR against her. Sonia Gandhi has breached the Model Code of Conduct, according to Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who submitted the complaint.

"It is shocking and unacceptable. I appeal to the EC to take strict action against her for making such a statement," the minister said. Karandlaje, the convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, asked the poll body to demand the filing of a police report against the former Congress president and the imposition of severe penalties. With reference to Gandhi's address at a campaign rally in Hubballi on Saturday, the Congress on the same day tweeted that the Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson "sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas".

Congress parliamentary party chairperson Sonia Gandhi's Karnataka sovereignty remark | Election Commission of India issues a letter to Congress president to provide clarification and take rectification measures in respect of the social media post which has been put up on the pic.twitter.com/dOJhX2SU9F  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

The party also shared images of Sonia Gandhi speaking at a public event. "The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity," the tweet read. A day after Sonia's comments went viral, Prime Minister Modi accused the Gandhi family of advocating "secession" of Karnataka from India and said, "The disease of the 'Tukde Tukde' gang will reach this high in Congress, I had never thought."

He further accused the Congress party of "insulting" the Kannada freedom fighters who participated in India's freedom struggle." "Congress has a history of dividing brothers, making states fight among themselves, and leaving no stone unturned in inciting communal violence. Whenever Congress party comes to power, the confidence of terrorists and criminals gets emboldened. They are assured of being protected by the Congress party. We have seen how Congress has repeatedly come in support of terrorists," he said.
The Bharatiya Janata Party today reacted sharply after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee banned 'The Kerala Story' film in the state. In-charge of BJP's National Information & Technology Department Amit Malviya said termed the decision as unfortunate. Taking on Twitter, BJP's Bengal chief Dr Sukanta Majumdar said that nothing is surprising in Banerjee's decision as she wants to closer her eyes to reality.

"I want to ask failure CM Mamata Banerjee, why she has banned 'The Kerala Story' which is Anti-ISIS & Anti-Love Jihad. Does she want to give protection to the people who are involved in Love Jihad & are supporters of ISIS ideology? She needs to come out clean & answer. The public is watching. Another example of Hinduphobia running deep within the ruling dispensation of West Bengal. The Supreme Court didn't ban the Kerala Story, but the failure CM had to do it in order to appease her vote bank. BJP will oppose this fascist fatwa issued by her," said Sukanta Majumdar.

Majumdar said that it was expected from Banerjee. "It is based on true stories and shows how Islamists trap Hindu girls into Love Jihad and later send to become ISIS terrorists. Didi wants to close her eyes to the reality. She wants to deprive the people of WB, especially women of this harsh reality. The cases of Love Jihad are common in WB. WB has led the way of the country whenever the need arises. Her decision is the opposite to that. By banning, she has proved again there is no Freedom of Expression in West Bengal," he added.

Earlier this evening, Banerjee termed 'The Kerala Story' as 'Distorted Story' and announced to ban the film. She claimed that it's necessary to ban the movie to maintain peace and harmony in the state. She also accused Kerala's ruling party CPIM of working in collusion with the BJP and allowing the screening of the film across the state.

Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari question Banerjee's statement that law and order issue will arise from screening of the film. "This movie is against ISIS & it's modus operandi. Does CM Mamata Banerjee sympathize with ISIS? Why would law & order get disrupted in WB if this movie is screened? The decision to ban the movie should be immediately withdrawn, or else CM should resign if she's not able to maintain law & order," he said in a tweet.

Reacting to the ban, Amit Malviya said that Banerjee's decision raises serious questions on civil liberties and freedom of expression. He claimed that the movie is a real account of victims, who have 'endured the horrors of demographic invasion and have been used as cannon fodder for ISIS'. He said that the threat has been recognised by two Chief Ministers of Kerala - V S Achuthanandan and Oommen Chandy.

"Does Mamata Banerjee know about the dreaded phenomenon of Love Jihad in Kerala more than the Catholic Bishops Council, the Syro Malabar Church, The Catechesis department of the Thamarassery Diocese or the Kerala High Court, who have all spoken out against the evil design of Islamists, luring away young women in a bloody trap of death and destruction?" asked Malviya.

Mamata Banerjees decision to ban The Kerala Story in West Bengal is rather unfortunate. It raises serious questions on civil liberties and freedom of expression. The movie is a real account of victims, who have endured the horrors of demographic invasion and have been used as  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 8, 2023

Malviya alleged that instead of protecting the nation's daughters, Mamata Banerjee has again chosen to stand with radical elements. "Who is Mamata Banerjee trying to please with this ban? Does she think Muslims of Bengal relate more to ISIS than the Indian Constitution? Shame on her regressive politics," he said.
Mysuru: In a veiled attack on Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said things are changing for the better in Jammu and Kashmir but attempts will be made to disturb it as "there are interested parties and one lives right across." While speaking at an interactive session on the Foreign Policy of the Modi Government, Jaishankar noted that there will be challenges when it comes to Jammu and Kashmir. However, he said that their effort should be "to persevere, infuse that sense of confidence, to give that sense of hope, and to ensure there is security."

When asked about the investment coming from the Middle East in Kashmir and also terror funding, Jaishankar said, "Clearly, things are changing for the better when it comes to Jammu and Kashmir. But, part of what needs to keep developing is actually the economy, the employment opportunities, the whole you know the ecosystem which comes which are much you know vibrant, economy, civil society. Attempts will be made to disturb it because there are interested parties, and one lives right across, so you know, we should not expect that there will not be challenges. There will be and it's not necessarily limited to the western neighbours, there will be others as well."

Emphasizing that the government is working to instil a sense of confidence among people and is determined to overcome challenges, he said, "So, there will be challenges but our effort should be to persevere, to infuse that sense of confidence, to give that sense of hope, to ensure there is security and that is what really the government is doing. I mean, we have to also really recognize that men and women of this country make I mean they may be in the military, they may be in the security, they may be in the governance out there, they make sacrifices for all of this to happen. I think this is something we will do, we will continue doing."

The EAM further stated, "We know there will be obstacles but we are very very determined that we will overcome that."

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Jaishankar stated, "Spoke in Mysuru on the foreign policy of Modi Government. Thank the Thinkers Forum for organizing and the residents of the Palace City for attending in such large numbers. Their presence today is a statement that the world matters more to today's India; that the Modi Government has changed the country and that involved citizens want to make informed choices in the world's largest democracy."

Spoke in Mysuru on foreign policy of Modi Government. Thank the Thinkers Forum for organizing and residents of the Palace City for attending in such large numbers.



Their presence today is a statement that the world matters more to todays India; that the Modi Government has pic.twitter.com/KvOlsPnbCj  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 7, 2023

During the interactive session on the Foreign Policy of the Modi Government in Mysuru, Jaishankar highlighted India's response to global geopolitics.

"I think there are moments when it is, as I said, with nice people, you are nice. With difficult people, sometimes it's necessary to push back. But I would say this because this has been my experience in the last year," said Jaishankar while taking questions on former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan playing his speeches, lauding India for its independent foreign policy.

While addressing a rally in Lahore in 2022, Imran Khan praised India for its independent foreign policy and played out a video clip of Jaishankar.

"It's sometimes you're made to sit and almost hold it saying, how can India do this? How do you take this position? At that stage you ask yourself saying, what do you do? Do you then be conciliatory or do you put your point of view across? And if somebody is being very self-centered, they're only looking at their interest, their point of view, not by rights. Tell them that there are other points of view and there are other interests, etc," Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar weighed in on the foreign policy of the Union government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying there are times when people need to trust the government and understand that it is committed to its citizens abroad.

"There are times when the people need to trust the government, need to understand that this is a government which has systems in place, which has a commitment to citizens abroad," Jaishankar said in Mysuru.
New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national president JP Nadda on Sunday attended a special screening of the film 'The Kerala Story' and called it an 'eye opener'. After watching the movie in Bengaluru's Garuda Mall, Nadda said that there is a 'new type of terrorism' which is without ammunition and said that the film exposes 'poisonous terrorism'.

While talking to reporters, JP Nadda said, "There's a new type of terrorism which is without ammunition... 'The Kerala Story' exposes poisonous terrorism. This kind of terrorism isn't related to any state or religion..."

It is a global story and must be watched, Nadda, who is in Karnataka to campaign for BJP for the May 10 Assembly elections, said.

"After watching this film, our people will be able to understand what kind of conspiracy is being hatched to make our society hollow... We should be aware of this," he added.

Nadda watched the movie along with Karnataka unit BJP president Nalin Kumar Kateel, Union Ministers Shobha Karandlaje and Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai, and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya.

'The Kerala Story', which stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani, and Sonia Balani in the lead roles, revolves around a group of women in Kerala who are forced to convert and join the terrorist group ISIS.

Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the movie hit the theatres on May 5 after the Kerala High Court refused to issue a stay order on the release of the film.

The trailer of the film came under fire as it claimed that 32,000 girls from Kerala went missing and later joined ISIS. Faced with backlash, the makers then withdrew the figure and called the movie the story of three women from Kerala, in its trailer description.

The hotly debated film on conversion is at the center of national discourse with Prime Minister Narendra Modi crediting it for bringing out terror conspiracies and using it to attack the Congress during a rally in Karnataka on Friday.
By Will Hollingworth, KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2023 - 22:41 | All, World, Japan

British officials believed Japan would covertly monitor their discussions and activities at the Group of Seven summit in Tokyo in 1979, according to recently declassified documents.

Security experts warned the Japanese could be recording information via the equipment supplied to the British delegation's office, located on the grounds of the neo-baroque state guest house Akasaka Palace, a minute marked 'secret' reveals.

Nancy Deeves, an official at the Foreign Office's protocol and conference department, wrote to the 'PS/PUS' -- abbreviations referring to the private secretary to the Foreign Office's Permanent Under-Secretary, Michael Palliser -- outlining her concerns in advance of the trip.

On June 18, she wrote, "Technologically speaking, for this visit we are dealing with the most advanced nation in the world who have the money to implement their requirements.

"In our delegation offices...there is no speech protection whatsoever. The only means of ensuring it would...be politically unacceptable, involving our CTSD (communications technical services department) officers tearing walls and ceilings apart beforehand, making a continuous check on telephones, typewriters, photocopiers etc...and requiring a much larger RMP (Royal Military Police) contingent to have to mount a 24-hour guard thereafter.

"Without these drastic measures all speech, use of electric typewriters (provided by the Japanese) and photocopier and most, if not all, use of manual typewriters can and, I am advised, almost certainly will, be recorded."

Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Foreign Secretary Peter Carrington and Chancellor of the Exchequer Geoffrey Howe all attended the two-day summit at Akasaka Palace.

Deeves feared that while at the delegation office, just a short walk from the palace, officials could have been dealing with highly sensitive Cabinet and intelligence matters unconnected to the summit.

She said the delegation would be asked to keep all classified papers "under their eye" during the day.

The documents would then be removed at night to private offices in the New Otani Hotel, where the three ministers were staying, and kept under Royal Military Police guard.

Deeves writes, "The question of photography of documents from unseen cameras is doubtless one of the items which security department...has in mind."

Deeves also said protecting classified information would be easier in the hotel, as officers from CTSD could "monitor sensitive speech" and check typewriters and photocopiers beforehand.

However, she noted, "They can of course do nothing about telephone conversations."

She wrote that in reality, the only secure area for secure communication in Tokyo was at the British Embassy. The security department also advised that secretaries only write about secret and top-secret material at the embassy.

She recommended warning all private secretaries, duty clerks, secretaries and advisers traveling to Tokyo about the security risks.

Deeves noted that from her experience of previous overseas tours, there was a tendency for weary ministers and officials to drop their guard and forget they were not in their London offices.

She said, "It seems to me that members of the delegation should on this visit keep in mind throughout the consequences of discussing sensitive matters in our Annexe (delegation) offices and weighing that against the inconvenience of working in the embassy."

Hugo Dobson, a professor of Japan's international relations at Sheffield University who closely follows G-7 and Group of 20 summits, said he could not recall seeing declassified documents discussing surveillance at summits before, although he has long assumed it may take place at international gatherings.

There have been unconfirmed media reports that between 2009 and 2013 Britain and Canada, in partnership with the United States, and separately Russia all spied on delegations at summits they were hosting.

Dobson said, "I'm sure Britain had similar concerns (about surveillance) with regard to visits to most countries. What surprises me is the perception among officials that they were dealing technologically 'with the most advanced nation in the world.'

"It demonstrates how dramatically British perceptions of Japan had changed since the end of World War II."

The 1979 summit on June 28-29 was chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Masayoshi Ohira. Other leaders present included Thatcher, Canadian Prime Minister Joe Clark, French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing, West German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti, and U.S. President Jimmy Carter.

The meeting's main focus was on energy security and how Western nations could reduce oil imports.

The minute from Deeves was closed from public view until September 2022, presumably on the grounds of protecting international relations.

The original file the minute belongs to was released in 2010 at the National Archives in London.

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New Delhi: Rajya Sabha MP and former Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Monday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 'shahi parivar' jibe and said that the Gandhi family bled for the country. "PM said: Congress Shahi Parivar wants Karnataka to "secede" from India. But Modiji: The nation saw them "bleed" for India -Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi. Is the NCERT going to efface those facts from textbooks?" Sibal said in a tweet.

PM said :

Congress Shahi Parivar wants Karnataka to secede from India



But Modiji :

The nation saw them "bleed" for India



Indira Gandhi

Rajiv Gandhi



Is the NCERT going to efface those facts from textbooks ?  Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) May 8, 2023

Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi stepped up his attack on the Congress while setting the stage for a showdown in Karnataka. Addressing an election rally at Nanjangud in Mysuru district, PM Modi accused the "Shahi Parivar" (Gandhi family) of openly inciting foreign powers to interfere.

"Congress's Shahi Parivar (Royal family) has been openly inciting foreign powers to interfere and secretly meeting foreign diplomats who do not like India in order to influence the country's politics," he said.

"When it comes to working against the interests of India, the royal family of the Congress party is at the forefront. They openly invite foreign powers to influence the politics in India. In this election, Congress has said that they want to protect the sovereignty of Karnataka. It means that Congress is advocating for Karnataka's separation from India. The disease of the 'Tukde Tukde' gang will reach this high in Congress, I had never thought," he added.

PM Modi further accused the Congress party of "insulting" the Kannada freedom fighters who participated in India's freedom struggle."

"Congress has a history of dividing brothers, making states fight among themselves, and leaving no stone unturned in inciting communal violence. Whenever Congress party comes to power, the confidence of terrorists and criminals gets emboldened. They are assured of being protected by the Congress party. We have seen how Congress has repeatedly come in support of terrorists," he said.

It may be noted that campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly polls will end today. Karnataka will go to Assembly polls on May 10, and the counting of votes will be done on May 13.
HUBBALI: Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai is engaged in a tough three-cornered fight in Shiggaon, his bastion. The Congress in a desperate attempt to wrest the seat from Bommai, who has won three times in a row, has again fielded a Muslim candidate, Pathan Yasir Ahamad Khan. Businessman-turned-politician from the Panchamasali Lingayat community, Shashidhar Yeligar is representing the Janata Dal(S).

More than a Janata Dal candidate, Yeligar is a prominent face in the constituency and has deep roots in the Panchamasali Lingayat community which is a powerful Lingayat group. The Congress, according to the local people, should have given the seat to a Panchamasali Lingayat and this would have given sleepless nights to Bommai. However, the presence of a large number of Muslims, around 50,000, led to the Congress thinking of fielding a Muslim again in the constituency.

The Congress had fielded Syed Azeempeer Khadri in the last elections and he had lost to Bommai. Hence it changed the face and fielded Pathan Yasir Ahmad Khan. The Congress is expecting a split in the Lingayat votes between Bommai and Yelligar and the Muslims voting en masse for the Congress candidate. The Congress leaders are of the opinion that with the Muslim votes going entirely to the party, and the Lingayat votes getting split, the possibility of Khan scraping through is very real.

However sources in the Yalligar camp told IANS that there is a tacit understanding between Bommai and the local Congress leadership and this would be the key factor to win the polls. While Bommai is touring other constituencies, his wife Chennamma and son Bharath are campaigning on his behalf. When asked about the tacit understanding with the Congress, Bharat told IANS, "There is no such thing. This is a laughable question. We are fighting against each other and my father has been very popular in the constituency even before he was Chief Minister and he is popular among local people even now. So there is no doubt and he is winning the seat easily with a higher margin."

In the 2018 assembly elections Bommai defeated Syed Azeempur Khadri by a margin of 8765 votes with Bommai receiving 83,368 votes, and Khadri 74,603 votes. The JD(S) candidate Ashok Bevinamar received 1353 votes. An independent candidate, Somanna garnered 7203 votes. In this election the Congress has a fresh face in Pathan Yasir Ahmad Khan while JD(S) candidate Shashidhar Yeligar is very popular in the constituency.

The only advantage Bommai has and he is campaigning extensively on it is that he will again be the Chief Minister, if the BJP comes back to power. If this strikes resonance with the voters, Bommai will romp home with a good majority. However, the Muslim vote bank and the split in the Lingayat votes can be the undoing of Bommai.

Another factor that is worrying the Bommai camp is the narrative that the Congress has woven around Jagadish Shettar. There is a feeling among the Lingayat community that Bommai has played second fiddle to the Brahmin lobby in the BJP comprising BL Santosh and Pralhad Joshi to oust Shettar from the party. If this recoils, then the situation will become worse for Bommai.
HUBBALI: Former Karnataka Chief Minister and six-time MLA from Hubbali, Jagadish Shettar is fighting a tough battle in his home constituency this time. Shettar, who recently quit the BJP and joined the Congress after being denied an election ticket by the saffron camp, is contesting on a Congress ticket from his home turf in the May 10 Assembly elections.

However, at the ground level, things seem to be not working in favour of the soft-spoken veteran politician, who`s known to have a corruption-free image. Praveen Marathe, an autorickshaw driver in Hubbali, told IANS, "Shettar is a good leader but he has shifted to Congress which has not gone down well with the voters of Hubbali. This is a BJP bastion and Shettar will lose the polls this time."

The Hubbali region is a stronghold of the BJP and Shettar is one of the founding leaders of the party in the area, who built the party from the grassroots level. The six-time MLA was denied a ticket by the BJP leadership, triggering a major outburst from Shettar who accused the party`s national organising secretary, B.L. Santosh, as the man behind denying him a ticket.

Shettar also said that BJP is fast turning into a party dominated by only one section. The former Chief Minister said that it was Prahlad Joshi, the only Lok Sabha member from Karnataka, who could get a Cabinet berth among the 25 party MLAs from the region and that was due to the fact that he was from a particular community.

Shettar also alleged Brahminical domination in the BJP and accused Santosh of calling the shots and sidelining other castes in the party. Shettar had won the Hubbali seat in 2018 by a margin of 21,306 votes. However, it remains to be seen if the Hindu vote bank of Shettar will support him this time.

The plus point for Shettar is his clean image. Several local businessmen told IANS that he had never exploited them. Another factor is his easy accessibility and down-to-earth image. The RSS-BJP combine is working hard at the grassroots level to defeat Shettar and if the Lingayat votes do not split, Shettar will have tough time.

The BJP candidate from Hubbali, Mahesh Tenginkai, told IANS, "The BJP will win the seat by a huge margin. It is the party which matters and not individuals, and the BJP has a strong base in this constituency. The development programmes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi have given the people a clear choice in the elections."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi camping in Karnataka and addressing a gathering in Haveri has uplifted the spirits of the party cadres in north Karnataka. Coupled with this the organisational machinery of the BJP is functioning tirelessly and has almost completed four rounds of door-to-door campaigning. In Hubbali, BJP candidate Mahesh Tenginkai, the party state general secretary and the blue-eyed boy of senior leader B.L. Santhosh, has been working hard to defeat the Congress candidate Jagadish Shettar whose exit from the BJP has become national news.

While Shettar has the support of the local people and their goodwill, being a six-term MLA and a former chief minister, the Hubbali seat is a stronghold of the BJP and the RSS. The arrival of the Prime Minister in the adjacent district of Haveri where he dwelt on the development measures undertaken by his government and a `double engine` government in the state seems to have struck a chord with the voters.

M.R. Krishan Tulangi, a farmer in Hubbali while speaking to IANS said, "The Prime Minister has said that the government of India is purchasing urea at a cost of Rs 50 per kg and distributing it to farmers at Rs 5 per kg. This is a very important gesture on the part of the BJP government towards the farmers. This time I will vote for the BJP even though Jagadish Shettar is a good person and a winnable candidate."

In Gadag also there is support for the BJP candidates and most of those whom this correspondent spoke to said that even though the Karnataka BJP is not up to the mark and corruption allegations are there, the Prime Minister was doing good work for the country. To support him they have to vote for the BJP.

Basavaraj Pujar, a driver in Gadag told IANS, "The Prime Minister in his speech at Haveri said that our country is presently the fifth largest economy in the world and will soon become the third largest economy. This filled me with pride and I have decided to vote for the BJP." In Belagavi, however, the presence of the Maharashtra Ekikaran Samithi (MES) which stands for the merger of the border districts of Karnataka with Maharashtra, is likely to play spoilsport to the prospects of the BJP in four seats.

In addition to the Prime Minister`s roadshow and public programmes, the presence of grassroot RSS cadres is helping the BJP conduct door to door surveys, which the Congress is lacking. Another factor is the presence of a large number of youths for campaigning for the BJP while the Congress has middle aged people in its campaign team. With only two days left for the elections and with the campaigning ended today, the BJP and the Congress are in an all out mode to garner the maximum votes.

Kharge Appeals People To Take Pride In 'Bhoomiputra'

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in an emotional appeal, on Monday called upon the people of Karnataka to take pride in the fact that a `Bhoomiputra` (son of the soil) is heading the party. Speaking at his home constituency Kalburagi, he said that he is 81 years old and if someone wants to finish him off, they could.

The veteran leader was touching upon an alleged audio of BJP candidate at Chittarpur constituency, Manikanta Rathode in which he allegedly stated that he would wipe out the entire family of Kharge. It is to be noted that Rathode is having several criminal cases, including murder, against him and is fighting against Kharge`s son, Priyank Kharge.

Kharge said: "Some BJP leaders would be behind the utterances of this man. Otherwise how can he get the courage to speak in an audio that he would finish off Kharge`s family?" At a public meeting, Kharge said that no one could finish him off that easily. "I have Babasaheb`s (Ambedkar) Constitution to protect me. I have the people of Karnataka behind me and now after becoming the Congress president, the people of the country are behind me."

He said that there was a conspiracy angle behind this and senior BJP leaders would have supported this. Kharge called upon the people of Kalaburgi to vote for Congress to win all Assembly seats in the district and in the neighbouring Yadgir district. He said that the Congress leadership has made him its chief and that Kalaburgi must return that by making Congress candidates win the polls.

He said that in Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was speaking about saving his dignity by making all BJP candidates win the elections as he was the "bhoomiputra" of Gujarat. Kharge said that in a similar vein, he was the "bhoomiputra" of Karnataka and hence, people should vote for Congress and make it win the elections.
Bengaluru: The BJP on Monday filed a complaint with the Election Commission against former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi over her statement that her party will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's "reputation, sovereignty or integrity." Karnatakas ruling party - BJP - has requested the poll body to issue orders for the registration of an FIR against Sonia Gandhi.

Addressing a rally in Karnataka's Hubballi, Sonia Gandhi on Saturday made a scathing attack on the BJP and said, "Karnataka and the rest of the country cannot make progress without getting rid of the ruling partys "loot, lies, ego and hatred". Sonia Gandhi was flanked on the stage by Congress president M Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar who recently quit BJP over the denial of ticket and joined the party.

Later, Congress, while referring to Gandhi's speech at Hubballi, shared a tweet and said that the Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson "sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas.'' It also posted pictures of her speaking at the public meeting. "Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity," a tweet from the partys handle read.

CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji sends a strong message to 6.5 crore Kannadigas:



"The Congress will not allow anyone to pose a threat to Karnataka's reputation, sovereignty or integrity." pic.twitter.com/W6HjKYWjLa  Congress (@INCIndia) May 6, 2023

BJP Delegation Moves EC

Describing this statement as "shocking and unacceptable", Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who filed the complaint, said Sonia Gandhi has violated provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and requested the EC to take stringent action against her for making "such a statement." Karandlaje, Convener of the BJP Election Management Committee, also requested the EC to issue directions to register an FIR against her and take exemplary punitive action.

Today we gave a complaint against Sonia Gandhi to Election Commission. She gave a speech in Hubbali in which she talked about the sovereignty of Karnataka. We use sovereignty for the country. She is heading the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang. We demanded that FIR should be registered against her, Union Minister & BJP MP Shobha Karandlaje told ANI.

#WATCH | Today we gave a complaint against Sonia Gandhi to Election Commission. She gave a speech in Hubbali in which she talked about the sovereignty of Karnataka. We use sovereignty for the country. She is heading the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang. We demanded that FIR should be pic.twitter.com/0iY56iLdQ3  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

A delegation of BJP leaders comprising Bhupender Yadav, Anil Baluni and Tarun Chugh met the Election Commission today with Union Minister Bhupender Yadav calling this "anti-national act".

"She (Sonia Gandhi) deliberately used the word sovereignty. Congress manifesto is the agenda of the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang and hence they are using such words. We hope EC will take action against this anti-national act," Union Minister Bhupender Yadav was quoted by ANI as saying.

#WATCH | A BJP delegation meets Election Commission (EC) in Delhi



She (Sonia Gandhi) deliberately used the word sovereignty. Congress manifesto is the agenda of the 'Tukde-Tukde' gang and hence they are using such words. We hope EC will take action against this anti-national pic.twitter.com/7S4dScJHF4  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

PM Steps Up Attack On Congress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the Congress of openly advocating for "separating" Karnataka from India, PTI reported. PM Modi, apparently referring to Sonia Gandhi's remark, said that the disease of the 'tukde-tukde gang' (anti-national elements) has reached the Congress' top level.

The Prime Minister's charge came a day after Sonia Gandhi, in her maiden entry into the 2023 Karnataka Assembly poll battle, said, "Karnataka and the rest of the country cannot make progress without getting rid of the ruling partys "loot, lies, ego and hatred".

The Congress party has fielded Shettar, a six-time MLA, from the Hubli-Dharwad Central constituency, from where he had won the previous Assembly polls in 2018. Today is the last day of campaigning and Karnataka will vote in single-phase election on May 10 and the results will be declared on May 13.
Hyderabad: Launching a scathing attack on Priyanka Gandhi, Telangana Minister KT Rama Rao has described the Congress general secretary as a "political tourist" and alleged that her party is a "sinking ship" which needs to learn from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi's "inclusive policies" in the state.

Bharat Rashtra Samithi's (BRS) working president KTR was referring to Priyanka Gandhi's visit to Hyderabad's Saroornagar to address a public meeting on youth issues named 'Yuva Sangharshana Sabha' on Monday. "Hyderabad is a global city which welcomes lakhs of tourists every day and it also welcomes political tourists like Priyanka Gandhi," KTR said.

The BRS leader took a swipe at Congress and said that the parties which did not work for the welfare of the people while in power are now "preaching the State governments like Telangana which consistently ranked high in performance".

In an apparent jibe at the Congress leader, KTR said that politicians who are "unemployed" are "provoking the youth of Telangana". KTR alleged that Congress exploited the youth and the issue of unemployment "solely for its politics".

"The country would not have experienced an unemployment crisis if Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) announced employment policy and worked like BRS," he said. "The Telangana government under the leadership of Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao provided employment to 2.2 lakh youth in the government and 22 lakh youth in the private sector," the BRS leader added.

KTR suggested Priyanka to learn from the "inclusive and holistic developmental activities, and policies of Telangana, and implement them in Congress-ruled states". Sharpening his attacks further, he demanded Priyanka Gandhi to apologise on behalf of the Congress party for allegedly "taking the lives of hundreds of Telangana youth during the separate Telangana movement by delaying the formation of the State for their political gains".

KTR termed the Congress party as a "sinking ship" and suggested Priyanka Gandhi turn her "political tour" into an "educational tour".

The Minister also highlighted the "failures" during Congress rule on grounds of basic necessities like drinking and irrigation water, electricity and support for agriculture and said that the development in Telangana has been in "stark contrast" to the Congress-ruled states.

"In stark contrast to the Congress rule, BRS led Telangana government provided 24*7 power, Rythu Bandhu, Aasaea pensions for the needy, Mission Bhagiratha etc. The people of Telangana who are astute will secure their future by electing KCR who achieved the formation of the State and the political tourist Priyanka Gandhi will realize this in the tour," KTR said.
Kolkata: The Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal banned the film 'The Kerala Story' citing "maintenance of peace" and to avoid incidents of "hatred and violence" in the state. West Bengal became the first state to ban the film, which narrates the ordeal of three women who are trafficked to ISIS camps after being converted to Islam through marriage. There's a continuing political outcry around the movie even as it has been made tax-free in BJP-ruled Madhya Pradesh.

On the decision to ban the film, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, "It is to avoid any incident of hatred and violence, and maintain peace in the state." Also raking up the 'Kashmir Files', a film on the alleged genocide of Kashmiri Pandits, which ran to packed houses despite evoking protests from the Opposition, the Bengal CM said, "What was 'The Kashmir Files'? It was meant purely to humiliate a particular section of society. What is 'The Kerala Story'? It is a distorted story."

The CM directed the state chief secretary to remove the movie from all theatres where it is being screened. Reacting to the ban, Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the producer of the film, said they will pursue legal options against the decision.

"If state government won't listen to us, we will explore legal avenues. However, whatever course we take will be based on legal advice," Shah told ANI. Helmed by Sudipto Sen and produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film evoked sharp opposition from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who called it "RSS propaganda".

Also Read: BJP Slams Mamata, Says Ban 'Example of Hinduphobia'

Congress MP from Kerala, Shashi Tharoor accused the makers of "misrepresenting" Kerala. Campaigning for the BJP in poll-bound Karnataka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, too, weighed in on the controversy, accusing the Congress of standing with terrorists.

'The Kerala Story' stars Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Siddhi Idnani and Sonia Balani in lead roles. A massive controversy erupted around the film after its trailer claimed that 32,000 women from Kerala had gone missing and joined the terrorist group ISIS. However, in the face of protests, the contentious figure in the trailer was later withdrawn. Its trailer description was later changed to a story of three women from Kerala.
New Delhi: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Monday said that nearly 60 innocent people died in the violent incident of May 3. Addressing a press conference Singh said nearly 231 people were injured and around 1700 houses were burned in the unfortunate event.

Manipur CM further appealed to people to maintain peace and informed them that a high-level inquiry will be conducted to hold those responsible for the violence to account and also act on those who failed to discharge their responsibilities in containing the unrest. He also appealed to the people not to block or obstruct the movement of public transport.

In his first public reaction to the ethnic clashes that have put the Northeast state on the boil, the Manipur CM also thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for monitoring the situation and sending central forces to restore normality at the earliest. He assured media persons that those stranded in the ongoing violence were being provided with the best possible care.

"Those stranded at different locations in Manipur are being provided the best possible care and support. They are being moved to safe locations and shelters. Till now, 20,000 such persons have been evacuated and about 10,000 remain stranded," Singh said, adding that a high-level inquiry will be conducted to fix the responsibility on those behind the violence.

"A high-level inquiry will be conducted to fix responsibility on persons/groups behind the violence and government servants who failed to discharge their responsibilities. I appeal to all not to spread or believe unfounded and baseless rumours. Till now, 35,655 persons, including 1593 students, have been moved to safer locations," the CM said.

The chief minister also assured that the government machinery was working round the clock to resolve the situation and restore order and MLAs and ministers were also making sincere efforts to bring back peace.

"I appeal to the public to extend their maximum cooperation to paramilitary and state forces. I also appeal to them to create a safe and conducive environment to enable affected families to return to their homes. I sincerely thank the honourable Home Minister Amit Shah on behalf of the government. He has been monitoring the situation from the first day of violence and has sent several companies of central forces to the state to restore order," Singh said.

Several state governments, including those in the Northeast, are working on plans to evacuate their citizens out of the violence-hit Manipur.

Meanwhile, Internet services remained suspended in the state and curfew continued to be enforced in violence-hit regions.

Some relaxations to the curfew, which were introduced on Sunday to enable people to purchase items of daily need, continued as well on Monday.

Clashes erupted in the Northeast state after the high court directed the state government to consider including the majority community of Manipur in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs).

Amid the demand of the Meitei people for ST status, a rally was organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) Manipur on Wednesday, which later turned violent.
CHANDIGARH: Punjab Police has formed a three-member special investigation team to look into a complaint of alleged sexual misconduct against state cabinet minister Lal Chand Kataruchak. The SIT was formed days after the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) issued a notice to the Punjab government asking it to submit an action taken report on the complaint against the AAP minister lodged by a Gurdaspur-based male.

The SIT is led by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Border Range) Narinder Bhargav while Gurdaspur's Senior Superintendent of Police Dayama Harish Kumar and Pathankot SSP Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh are members, according to an official order. The state police will also provide security to the complainant.

Special Investigation Team (SIT) shall render complete assistance and support to the Commission in investigation into the matter, said the order. It said the SIT will get in touch with the petitioner and take appropriate action as per law. Kataruchak is the Aam Aadmi Party MLA from Bhoa seat in Pathankot and the minister for Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.

Taking cognisance of the victim's complaint, the NCSC issued a notice to the Punjab government and asked the chief secretary and the director general of police to investigate the matter and submit an action taken report "immediately" through post or email.

Kataruchak had allegedly approached the victim "by sending him a friend request on Facebook in 2013-14 and when he accepted it, Kataruchak allegedly started making advances", the NSCN had said on Friday, quoting from the victim's letter. "Since he was an influential person, he had promised me a government job due to which I remained mum. I was too young at that time to understand anything. But, his sexual excesses continued till 2021. However, he met me for the last time on Diwali in 2021 and he neither provided me with a job nor met me after that," the victim had claimed.

"I am now on the run and submitting the complaint in Delhi as the minister is threatening to harm me or my family," he had alleged. Recently, a video on the matter was handed over to Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit by Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira for forensic examination. Purohit forwarded the forensic report of the purported "objectionable" video of Kataruchak to Chief Minister Bhawant Mann. According to the report, the video was not morphed, sources said.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday sought response from the Centre and the Bihar government on a plea challenging the state government's decision to prematurely release former MP Anand Mohan, who was serving life term in the 1994 murder case of then Gopalganj District Magistrate G Krishnaiah. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and JK Maheshwari issued notices to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Bihar government and Mohan on the plea. At the outset, senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for Uma Krishnaiah, the wife of the slain officer, said it is an unfortunate matter. The bench said it is issuing notice on the plea.

On May 1, the top court had agreed to hear the plea and listed for May 8.

Mohan was released from the Saharsa jail on April 27 following an amendment in Bihar's prison rules.

The petitioner has contended that life imprisonment awarded to the gangster-turned-politician meant incarceration for his entire natural course of life and it cannot be mechanically interpreted to last just 14 years.

"Life imprisonment, when awarded as a substitute for death penalty, has to be carried out strictly as directed by the court and would be beyond application of remission," she said in her petition before the Supreme Court.

Mohan's name figured in a list of more than 20 prisoners who were ordered to be set free by a notification issued by the state's law department earlier this week as they had spent more than 14 years behind the bars.

The remission of his sentence followed an April 10 amendment to the Bihar Prison Manual by the Nitish Kumar government whereby the restriction on early release of those involved in killing of a public servant on duty was done away with.

This, the critics of the state government's decision claim, was done to facilitate the release of Mohan, a Rajput strongman, who could add heft to the grand alliance led by Nitish Kumar in its fight against the BJP. Several others, including politicians, benefited from the amendment to the state prison rules.

Krishnaiah, who hailed from Telangana, was beaten to death by a mob in 1994 when his vehicle tried to overtake the funeral procession of gangster Chhotan Shukla in Muzaffarpur district.

Mohan, then an MLA, was leading the procession.
People watch the Chinese tea art performance during an event entitled "Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon" held in Athens, Greece, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

ATHENS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- A tea cultural event was held in Athens on Saturday, enabling Greek guests to learn about the different varieties of tea and tea-making techniques and the concept of Yaji.

The event included a traditional tea ceremony, an exhibition on the history of tea and its role in people's lives in China, and other activities like music, dances and calligraphy.

The event, entitled "Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon," was organized by the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism with the support of the Chinese Embassy in Greece and the Hellenic Foundation for Culture (HFC).

Yaji in Chinese means "gathering all that is elegant," said Wang Ying, cultural counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Athens. Ancient Chinese, in particular elites, enjoyed tea with music, calligraphy, and other cultural activities, she explained.

"Tea not only contains the traditional philosophy of China, that is, harmony between human beings and nature, but also serves as an important bridge between China and the world," Wang said.

The event was held on the occasion of the upcoming International Tea Day on May 21. In November 2022, the traditional Chinese tea processing techniques and associated social practice in China was listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

"The mutual learning between the two civilizations of China and Greece, two (representatives of) ancient civilizations, is an effective way to develop together," said Ren Ren, director of the China Cultural Center in Athens.

Michalis Maniatis, a Greek artist who has traveled between Greece and China for the past two decades, told Xinhua that his home is full of tea he enjoys with his Chinese friends who have become part of his family. He loves tea for its taste, symbolism, elegance, and connection.

"Tea is a bridge between people. And I hope everybody in the West can find a way to understand that and realize that through this friendly ceremony, we can know each other and be friends forever," he said. 

People watch the Chinese tea exhibition during an event entitled "Tea for Harmony Yaji Cultural Salon" held in Athens, Greece, May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)
Mumbai: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar has said he is surprised over Prime Minister Narendra Modi giving religious slogans during election campaigning in poll-bound Karnataka, which votes on May 10. When one takes up a religion or religious issue in an election, it creates a different type of environment and it is not a good thing, Pawar said while speaking to a regional news channel.

Speaking to reporters in Pandharpur temple town on Sunday, the NCP chief claimed the Congress will come to power in Karnataka. We take oath for democratic values and secularism at the time of contesting an election, Pawar said.

I am surprised that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given religious slogans during campaigning for the Karnataka Assembly elections. We have accepted the concept of secularism. When you take up a religion or religious issue in an election, it creates a different type of environment and it is not a good thing," he said.

Asked about the ongoing agitation at Barsu village in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district where a section of locals are opposing a mega oil refinery project, the NCP leader said he was keen on visiting the place, but it will be decided when and how he finds the time.

I had a meeting with representatives of Barsu villagers. I will hold another meeting with experts. I feel the issue should be taken forward by taking the villagers into confidence,? he said.

It may be noted that Sharad Pawar recently withdrew his resignation as NCP president days after stepping down from the top post. Speaking at a press conference, Pawar, who had sprung a surprise by announcing his resignation on May 2, said he could not disrespect the sentiments of his colleagues and party workers who insisted that he withdraw his decision.

"I cannot disrespect their feelings. I am overwhelmed by the love, trust and faith showered on me. Considering the appeals made by all of you, and honouring the decision of the committee constituted by the party, I am withdrawing my decision to retire," the veteran politician said. He also stressed that there has to be a "succession plan" for any post or responsibility in an organization.

He will focus on making organizational changes in the party, assigning new responsibilities and creating new leadership, Pawar said. "I will also work vigorously for the growth of the organisation and take our ideology and goals of the party to the people," he said.

Earlier, a committee set up to choose the new Nationalist Congress Party chief rejected incumbent president Sharad Pawar's decision to step down.

After announcing his resignation, Pawar had set up the committee, including Ajit Pawar, Supriya Sule, former Union minister Parful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal to elect a new party president.
New Delhi: Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with dyslexia. He took to Twitter to reveal that he has a condition often accompanied by attention deficit disorder (ADD).

In his tweet, Shekhar Kapur shared some of the life lessons he learned after he learned of his condition, expressing gratitude that he was not sent to special schools. He wrote, "Lessons of Life : I am completely dyslexic and have intense ADD. I dont know what else! Thank God there were no special schools for kids like me when I was growing up. They would have beaten out all the rebellion in me. Certainly would not have made any films. Or been creative."

Lessons of Life : Im completely dyslexic. And finding more and more artists poets musicians suffer from dyslexia too. Are you?



With #AI Ive developed a love for visual mathematics, but in school developed a hatred for Mathsofcourse ! With #dyslexia numbers made little sense  Shekhar Kapur (@shekharkapur) May 8, 2023

Following his post about his dyslexia and ADD, many people took to the comment section and shared their views on the subject. Many fans were worried as well and dropped 'Get Well Soon' comments. One user wrote, 'Schools for Special aid children are blessing for those parents who has child with disability! Dyslexia or ADD may sound minor disorder for some but its a punishment for those parents whose children suffer the severity of this disorder!' Another wrote, 'Schools for Special aid children are blessing for those parents who has child with disability!'

Born on December 6, 1945, at Lahore in Pakistan, the critically acclaimed director and actor is known for films like Elizabeth (1998), Bandit Queen (1994) and The Four Feathers (2002). Shekhar Kapur directed the 1983 film Masoom starring Naseeruddin Shah, Shabana Azmi and Urmila Matondkar.
New Delhi: Punjabi actress Sonam Bajwa is one of the most loved celebrities in the industry today. She often makes headlines with her social media posts. Actress has recently dropped a series of sizzling pictures of herself and these have taken over the internet. Sonam has left her fans gasping for breath with her latest photoshoot. She took to her Instagram handle and shared pictures in her wet-dress look and fans are in love.

The Punjabi actress can be seen dressed in a Syndical Chamber 3D-printed dress that features cut-outs on the neckline, a figure-hugging silhouette, a long train, and tassel ties on the back. Fans have flooded the comment section with heart-eye and fire emojis, many even called her a 'mermaid.'

The actress donned the stunning outfit at a recent event in Mumbai. Many Bollywood celebrities including Akshay Kumar, Kriti Sanon, Janhvi Kapoor, Ananya Panday, Sushmita Sen and others also marked their presence.

On the work front, Sonam participated in the Femina Miss India contest in 2012. She started her acting career in 2013 with the Punjabi film Best Of Luck. She played the leading female role in the 2014 film Punjab 1984 and won the PTC Punjabi Film Awards for Best Actress in 2020 for Ardab Mutiyaran.

Sonam recently joined Akshay Kumar, Disha Patani, Mouni Roy and Nora Fatehi for 'The Entertainers' tour in the US.

She has 'Carry On Jatta 3' with Gippy Grewal in her pipeline.
New Delhi: Actor Sushmita Sen is breaking the internet with her latest bold look she carried at a fashion event in Mumbai held last night. The 'Aarya' actor got all suited up in a suede blazer with a deep plunging neckline. The actor decided to shun her shirt and opted for a boss-babe avatar featuring a notch-lapel blazer and flared pants. She styled the outfit with a sleek body chain, strappy pumps, statement rings, lightly-tousled back-sept open locks, and striking makeup.

The actor attended the event with her daughter Alisah and her former beau Rohman Shawl. Sushmita was papped striking a stylish pose in front of her car as she arrived at the event. As soon as her video from the last night's event surfaced on social media, netizens couldn't help themselves drool over her sexy look.

A user wrote, "She always carry a class that is incomparable."

Another one wrote, "She is still hot and cool."

Meanwhile, the actor has been busy with the shooting of the third season of her hit web-series 'Aarya'. The actor was recently seen delving into the Indian martial art of Kalaripayattu. In a video shared on social media, Sushmita was seen practicing with Kalaripayattu trainer Sunil. The actor wrote in the caption, "You are amazing Sir #Sunil @cvn_kalari. Huge love and respect for you and the Art of #kalaripayattu. Here's to us & the preparation for #aarya3.

'Kalaripayattu' is a traditional martial art form originating in the Indian state of Kerala. It is believed to be one of the oldest fighting systems in existence, dating back over 3000 years.

Sushmita's personal life was all over the headlines after businessman and former IPL Chairman Lalit Modi expressed his love for the lady through their cosy pictures shared on social media, sending fans into a tizzy. However, looks like it fizzled out soon.

The actress talked about her split from model-actor Rohman Shawl in December 2021 in an Instagram post. But the duo has been spotted together on a couple of occasions.

Sushmita opened up about suffering a heart attack on her Instagram handle. She talked about having undergone angioplasty after that. The 'Aarya' actor informed her fans through social media that she was diagnosed with a 95 per cent blockage in the main artery. Since then, the actor has been updating with her health details on Instagram. In one of her live sessions, Sushmita requested the younger generation to get their hearts checked at regular intervals.

On the work front, Sushmita is all set to play the role of transgender activist Gauri Sawant in a new web series titled 'Taali'. She is gearing up for 'Aarya 3' along with her which also stars Sikander Kher in a pivotal role.
NEW DELHI: Another explosion occurred near the Golden Temple in Punjab's Amritsar district on Monday, just hours after a person was injured in a blast at the same location on Sunday night. According to news agency ANI, the second blast occurred around 6:30 AM near Saragarhi Sarai on the way to the Golden Temple. The cause of the explosion, however, is yet to be ascertained and police said they are "verifying" the cause of the incident.

Although there were no reported injuries or damages, the police and forensic teams reached the location to collect samples for examination.

"We are verifying. The situation is normal here. Anti-sabotage, Bomb Squad, and FSL teams are here. One person has received a minor injury in the leg," Mehtab Singh, ADCP, Amritsar told reporters on reports of a blast near Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Punjab | We are verifying. The situation is normal here. Anti-sabotage, Bomb Squad, and FSL teams are here. One person has received a minor injury in the leg: Mehtab Singh, ADCP, Amritsar on reports of a blast near Golden Temple in Amritsar pic.twitter.com/KOljUw0r6T  ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2023

Mehtab Singh further said that one person has received a minor injury in the leg and the glass facades of some nearby buildings were damaged in the blast. "After the clarification, we can tell how it happened. The investigation is going on by our teams," he added.

News agency ANI quoted a sweeper who was present on the spot during the incident saying, "I was doing my duty when I heard a big blast sound and saw heavy smoke." On May 6, there was an explosion at the same Heritage Street near the Golden Temple around 11:15 pm in which one person was injured, according to reports.

The consecutive blasts in the same location have raised concerns about the security in the area. Heritage Street is a popular tourist destination, and the Golden Temple is a religious site of great significance for the Sikh community. The police presence has been increased in the area, and the investigation is ongoing.

Appealing to maintain peace, police officials said the situation was under control and there was no need to panic. A police official told the media the blast apparently occurred in a chimney of a restaurant.
New Delhi: Google has recently taken steps to address a longstanding problem faced by Gmail users - phishing attacks. To combat this issue, the company has announced a new feature that displays a blue checkmark next to the sender's name, verifying their identity and reducing the likelihood of scams. This move is similar to the verification badges displayed on Twitter for verified accounts.

ALSO READ | Elon Musk Opens Up On Childhood Financial Struggles

Building upon that feature, users will now see a checkmark icon for senders that have adopted BIMI. This will help users identify messages from legitimate senders versus impersonators, Google blog wrote.

Currently, the blue checkmark feature is free of cost and will be accessible to all types of Google account users, including Google Workspace customers, legacy G Suite Basic and Business customers, and personal Google account holders. This feature is an extension of the Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) that was launched in Gmail earlier this year.

Google has stated that the blue checkmark will assist users in distinguishing genuine messages from impersonators. Businesses that have adopted BIMI will receive the checkmark automatically. By employing robust email authentication measures, users and email security systems can identify and prevent spam, while senders can make use of their brand trust. This enhances trust in email sources and creates a more engaging experience for readers, leading to an improved email ecosystem for all.

Extra Protection Against Scammers & Fraudsters

Google has introduced the blue checkmark feature to offer users an added layer of protection against fraudulent activities and phishing attempts. This feature will instill more trust in the messages that users receive, which is particularly important in the current digital era. As more companies begin to implement BIMI, the blue checkmark will become a more prevalent feature in users' email inboxes.
New Delhi: WhatsApp has updated its polls feature, adding the ability to create single-vote polls, search for them in chats and receive notifications when people vote on your polls. Moreover, you can now forward media with captions, or add captions to documents when sharing to add context before someone responds.

New Update Polls

Create Single-Vote Polls:

For when you need a definitive answer, were introducing the option for poll creators to allow people to vote only once. Simply turn off the allow multiple answers option when creating a poll.

Search for Polls in Your Chats

Its not always possible to answer a poll immediately, and it can be difficult to find a poll within the chat at a later time. Now, you can filter messages by polls, just like you can for photos, videos or links. On the Chats screen, press Search and then Polls to find a list of all results.

Stay Updated on Poll Results

You will now receive notifications when people vote on your polls, and be shown how many people have voted in total so you can easily keep up to date on responses.

Forwarding With Captions

Sharing photos on WhatsApp is one of the easiest ways to keep friends and family updated on your life, and the ability to forward media means you can quickly re-share images from one group of connections to another. But sometimes you might not have time to add context before someone responds.

Now, when you forward media that has a caption, you have the option to keep, delete or completely rewrite it to give extra information when sharing photos between chats. You can also add a caption to photos and videos when you forward them.

Sharing Documents with Captions

Just like when sharing images or videos, the documents you share may require a little explanation. Whether its when sending a newspaper article or a work document, now you have the option to add a caption before sharing.

These updates have started rolling out globally and will be available to everyone in the coming weeks.
People wait to cast their votes at a designated polling station in Bangkok, Thailand, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

BANGKOK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Thailand held early voting on Sunday ahead of the parliamentary election scheduled for May 14.

Over 2.23 million Thais registered to cast their votes early at designated polling stations across the country, mostly in the capital of Bangkok, according to the Election Commission (EC).

The turnout on Sunday was estimated to be higher than 70 percent, EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee said after the polls closed at 5:00 p.m. local time.

Under the two-ballot system, the parliamentary election will elect a total of 500 members to the House of Representatives.

More than 52 million Thai citizens, aged 18 and above, are eligible to vote in the election. 

A woman casts her vote at a designated polling station in Bangkok, Thailand, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

A woman casts her vote at a designated polling station in Bangkok, Thailand, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

People wait to cast their votes at a designated polling station in Bangkok, Thailand, May 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)
This photo taken on April 14, 2023 shows newly built intelligent work-out facilities in Jiulongpo District, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Xinhua/Zhao Jiale)

CHONGQING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Many bridges of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality are a popular topic for photography on TikTok. They are shown illuminated at night or bearing trains amid clouds of dreamy mist, winning numerous thumbs-ups from netizens.

Now lovers of the famous structures have more to celebrate, thanks to a citywide campaign to improve the spaces beneath them, as well as the miles of riverbank that run through the city.

Also known as the "Bridge Capital of China," Chongqing boasts over 10,000 bridges of all kinds. However, the areas beneath them are often neglected, either planted with bushes or used as parking lots. In many cases, the space is simply unused.

In Jiulongpo District, the Egongyan Bridge strides across the Yangtze River. Under the bridge now sits the newly-built Jiulongtan Square, where locals can experience intelligent work-out facilities powered by solar energy or take a leisurely stroll along the riverside walkways.

According to the municipal commission of housing and urban-rural development, the Jiulongtan project stretches 2.2 km along the river, spanning a total area of 504,000 square meters. It is part of the city's broader effort to renovate and upgrade the urban planning of areas along the rivers.

"It may be difficult to imagine, but several years ago, there was only a dilapidated wharf under the bridge," said Wu Feng, a resident living nearby. "It was full of weeds and the road was too rugged for us to walk on."

Now, the desolate space has been turned into a popular, leafy spot allowing locals to get close to nature. Plant varieties from the Three Gorges Reservoir area have been planted by the water's edge, transforming the barren land while aiding soil consolidation and ecological restoration.

"Taking into account Chongqing's riverside terrain with its various changes in level, we have built waterside walkways along the embankment, as well as paths for fitness lovers, giving them easy access to the Yangtze River," said Kang Yi, executive manager of the project.

Meanwhile, the revamping of the under-bridge spaces is making good use of the city's rich industrial culture.

For years, the space beneath Egongyan Bridge featured over 50 abandoned air-raid shelters carved into the rock walls. Now, 21 of the air-raid shelters have been transformed into eight exhibition halls on various themes, including folk culture and a former defense industrial base in Jiulongpo District.

On the Jiubin Road overpass in Jiulongpo, artists have created naked-eye 3D paintings, featuring items of naval and air equipment against a backdrop of blue sky and clouds. The impact is enhanced at night by projected images simulating the rise and fall of waves.

Meanwhile, docked alongside the overpass is a decommissioned warship. As an extension of the nearby museum cluster, the warship is intended to boost patriotism education among visitors, said the commission.

In the future, Chongqing plans to see a total of 23 renovation projects along its 109 km of riverbank, with some of them already completed. They will not only transform the spaces beneath the city's famous bridges, but contribute to greening efforts and upgrading infrastructure, the commission added. 

This photo taken on April 14, 2023 shows a part of Jiulongtan Square in Jiulongpo District, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Xinhua/Zhao Jiale)
Participants pose for a group photo during a "Warm Spring" activity for overseas Chinese held by the Chinese Embassy in Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam, Jan. 5, 2023. (Xinhua/Hu Jiali)

BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- On Monday, the 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations opened in Beijing. As an important platform that gathers associations of overseas Chinese from around the world, the conference this year is attended by about 500 heads of such associations from over 130 countries and regions.

As the Chinese leadership once noted, for Chinese people, both at home and abroad, the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is a shared dream. The Chinese government has always attached great importance to closely uniting overseas Chinese, returned overseas Chinese and their relatives, and encouraging them to play an active part in national rejuvenation.

To ensure that work related to overseas Chinese is sound and effective, Chinese authorities have held meetings to enhance overall planning, and also reformed relevant institutions and mechanisms. These measures have enhanced the coordination of departments, enabling work related to overseas Chinese to progress in a systematic and holistic manner.

With an effective work mechanism established, the Chinese government was able to introduce more tangible measures to attract overseas Chinese to participate in China's social and economic development.

For instance, in 2014, the State Council approved the establishment of the 480-square-km China (Shantou) Pilot Zone for Economic and Cultural Cooperation with Overseas Chinese in Shantou, Guangdong Province. After years of development, the zone has become a significant booster of local economic development. In 2020 and 2021, the annual GDP growth rate of the zone stayed above 20 percent.

Over the past decade, central and regional authorities have been constantly upgrading measures to serve overseas Chinese and safeguard their legitimate rights and benefits.

On April 27, two vessels of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy arrived in the Saudi Arabian port of Jeddah on an emergency evacuation mission. That day, 668 Chinese citizens were evacuated from Sudan, where weeks-long conflicts posed severe safety threats.

"Above all, we are so grateful to our motherland. The motherland is always our strong backing," said Chen Lihui, an evacuee.

Ensuring safety and well-being is only one aspect of China's endeavor to serve overseas Chinese. Over the years, a number of policies have been formulated to streamline the application of visas and long-term or permanent residence for Chinese of foreign nationalities.

In addition, overseas Chinese and their family members can now benefit from a plethora of policies and regulations that ensure their rights to receive education, operate businesses, and receive timely medical attention when in need. 
Rena Murshud

Armenia's policy of usurping historical and cultural monuments continues. As always, this time it starts with the appropriation of the ancient Albanian cultural history. In fact, it is not surprising that a nation without any history and culture, raids the history of others. The issue is not only Armenia's appropriation of historical monuments, but also its unfair treatment towards them.

In a comment for Azernews, Doctor of Philosophy in History Kerem Mammadov said that the churches were built in two shapes - Catholic and Orthodox, and it is totally wrong to attribute them to Armenian, Russian and Byzantine architectures.

"In the Caucasus, there are two types of churches: the Monophysite and Diophysite churches. The Monophysite churches are distinct from others with one throne that was placed on the side pointing to Jerusalem. However, in Diophysite temples, two thrones were placed, and Armenians belong to the Diophysit sect," the historian said.

A question arises here. If the Armenian state belongs to the sect of Diophysites, and the churches of the South Caucasus belong to the sect of Monophysites, how can they accept Albanian churches? By what fact Armenians appropriate churches and mosques?

It is a tradition of Armenia to convey such false claims to the public. Appropriating the Albanian churches by David Babayan, the adviser of the so-called state's head, and moreover, blaming Azerbaijan, which is a pattern of respect and care for all cultures, is a clear example of Armenia's deceitful policy. Babayan accuses Azerbaijan of allegedly destroying Armenian churches. However, the illegal official of a so-called state does not mention the capital of Armenia where there is not a single mosque or historical monument belonging to Azerbaijan, which in fact, have deliberately been razed or distorted by Armenia.

"If we were a nation destroying a church, there would be no church in the center of Baku. On the contrary, it is necessary to ask them that there is no mosque belonging to Azerbaijan in the capital city of Armenia, which is considered a historical city of Azerbaijan (Irevan Khanate, founded by Mirmekhti Khan)?!, Mammadov said.

In 1918-1920, under the Armenian Dashnak government and in the first years of Soviet Armenia, a number of mosques (Sardar, Tepebashi, Sartib Khan, Hadji Novruzali bek, etc.), built on the historical territory of Azerbaijan, were inhabited by Armenian refugees fled from different countries. Later they destroyed all the mosques and reconstructed them for different purposes.

The only mosque left is the 'Goy Masjid' (The Blue Mosque), and today they call it the Iranian Mosque. One can understand that Persian thinking and Armenian thinking are one and the same. Mamedov added.

The historian emphasized that the Azerbaijani people never showed vindictiveness or humiliated another culture.

"Not only Azerbaijan, but in general this action did not belong to the spirit of the Turkish nation. If we turn to history, while Tsarist Russia pursued a policy of violent Christianization, occupying Turkish lands, neither the Safavids, nor the Great Moguls, nor the Ottoman Empire forced people to become Muslims. Azerbaijan solves cases not with cruelty, but with humanism. Also, as an example, it is possible to cite the medical assistance provided by our Azerbaijani soldiers to Armenian soldiers during the 44-day war." he added.

Finally, the historian concluded that Azerbaijan does not intend to destroy the culture of other nations, but is always ready to cut a destroying hand extended to us.
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China has sent a clear signal to adapt to the new normal in its demographics in an effort to boost modernization by improving the overall quality of its population.

According to a meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs held last week, China is currently experiencing a trend of birthrate decline, population aging, and differentiation in regional population growth.

The latest official data showed that China's population reached 1.41175 billion at the end of 2022, a drop of 850,000 from that at the end of 2021.

"A slight decline in population size and an increasingly aging society are inevitable during the economic and social development," said He Dan, head of the China Population and Development Research Center.

But China's supply of workforce remains rich, given its population of more than 1.4 billion. Besides, the country's working-age population is close to 900 million, and 15 million more join the workforce every year.

At the same time, China's talent dividend, as a result of more education input, is growing. More than 240 million people in China have received higher education. The number of research and development personnel in China ranks top in the world.

To advance Chinese modernization, last week's meeting said China should speed up the development of modern human resources with good quality, sufficient quantity, optimized structure, and reasonable distribution.

Over the past years, education has proved to be an important channel in improving the quality of China's population and has created a growing talent dividend.

According to the meeting, China will take the building of educational power as a strategic project, and comprehensively improve the scientific and cultural literacy, health, intellectual and moral levels of the Chinese people.

Responding to population aging, Lu Ming, a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, said the country can tap into the experience and wisdom of senior citizens.

Among Chinese seniors aged 60 years and over, around half are between 60 and 69, according to Lu. A lot of them have advantages in knowledge, experience, and skills, and their health is still good, Lu added. They can continue to make contributions to society on a voluntary basis.

While highlighting the work to develop human resources, Hu Zuquan, a researcher with the State Information Center, stressed the need to safeguard population security.

Last week's meeting underscored more efforts to maintain an appropriate birthrate and population size. China will develop inclusive childcare services, reduce the burden on families of child-bearing, child-rearing, and education, and promote the building of a child-bearing-friendly society, according to the meeting. 
HOUSTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- At least seven people were killed and 12 others injured on Sunday after an SUV mowed down people near a shelter for the homeless and migrants in Brownsville, Texas, authorities said.

Lieutenant Martin Sandoval of Brownsville Police Department said the crash happened at around 8:30 a.m. local time (1330 GMT) when a Land Rover hit multiple people who were waiting at a bus stop across the street from Ozanam Center, a non-profit homeless shelter that has been helping house migrants. He said some migrants were among the dead and the driver was in custody.

"Seven individuals have been pronounced dead at the scene and 11 transported to local hospitals. One individual was airlifted to Valley Baptist Harlingen," the department said in a post on Facebook.

The detained male driver was charged with reckless driving and could face additional charges, Sandoval said.

He said that authorities are still investigating whether the crash was intentional or accidental and that witnesses described seeing the driver ignore a red light, mount a curb and run over the victims waiting at the bus stop.

Brownsville declared a state of emergency due to a surge of Venezuelan migrants in recent weeks.

The tragedy took place days before a Trump-era immigration restriction called Title 42 is set to expire. The policy allowed immigration officials to swiftly send migrants back to their home countries during the pandemic. It is anticipated that there will be an increase in immigration in the coming weeks once the restriction expires on Thursday. 
LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Colombia has suspended U.S. deportation flights returning citizens detained at the Mexico border due to "cruel and degrading treatment" by U.S. migration officials, British newspaper The Guardian has reported.

Fernando Garcia, head of Colombia's migration agency, said some migrants were subjected to cruel and degrading treatment before boarding and during the flights, including the use of cuffs for hands and feet.

"There are recurring complaints about the poor conditions in detention centers and mistreatment during flights, which represented a determining factor in the decisions adopted in the last few hours," Garcia was quoted as saying by the Guardian last Friday.

The number of Colombians trying to migrate north to the United States has soared in recent years, according to the report. Colombia expected to receive some 1,200 migrants in flights programmed to arrive from the United States during the first week of May, the country's migration agency said in a statement. 
RAMALLAH, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Palestine on Sunday condemned the construction of a new Israeli settlement outpost in the suburb of the Palestinian village of Mukhmas north of East Jerusalem.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the building of the new settlement outpost came after the Israeli authorities confiscated Palestinian lands for the construction of the outpost and settlement roads.

"The Israeli act is rejected and condemned, which falls within the framework of a silent and creeping annexation process under the supervision and support of the Israeli government," the statement said.

It noted that "settlement is a crime in every sense of the word according to international law," adding the ministry "is following up all developments in this regard with the International Criminal Court to hold Israel accountable for it."

On Saturday night, Israeli settlers established a settlement outpost near Mukhmas village which is located eight kilometers from Jerusalem, with the protection of Israeli forces, according to the Settlement and Wall Resistance Commission of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).

The commission said in a statement that settlers seized Palestinian lands on the outskirts of the village and started establishing a new settlement outpost bearing the name "Sde Yonatan" in an important strategic and geographical area.

The Israeli authorities didn't comment after announcing the building of the settlement outpost.

According to official Palestinian figures, more than 700,000 Israeli settlers live in 151 settlements established on Palestinian land in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.

Israel occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which are claimed by the Palestinians, in the 1967 Middle East war and has controlled them ever since. 
HONG KONG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- At the school where Ko Cheuk Kiu works, there are neither school bells ringing nor students running around the playground.

"You look good today. Shall we review the text together?" After greeting her student Hei Hei, Ko, in a light blue uniform, turned on her tablet computer and began to teach at the bedside.

Ko is a teacher at the Hong Kong Red Cross Hospital Schools, the only school in Hong Kong that provides education services for hospitalized children.

"Teaching children in a hospital? I was curious and keen to know more about it," Ko recalled, explaining she first learned about the Hospital Schools from a newspaper report in 2009 when she had just finished her Master's degree in language.

Ko, who also studied special education, applied for a teaching position in the school and was successfully hired as a Chinese language teacher.

Founded in 1954, the Hong Kong Red Cross Hospital Schools initially provided services in only one public medical institution. Now, it is a special education institute funded by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, with 26 school units attached to 19 public hospitals across Hong Kong.

The services of the Hospital Schools are mainly divided into three fields -- general specialty, psychiatry, and home-bound teaching program. The first two provide services for hospitalized students to reduce their difficulties in returning to their own school after being discharged, while home-bound teaching is aimed at students who need to stay at home to recuperate for a long period. Teachers are assigned to different hospitals or students' homes and rotate at regular intervals.

"Every morning, the first thing we do is to check on each student in the ward and see if they are physically well enough to attend classes," Ko said that their students came from different backgrounds and even speak different languages. "Some faces are familiar and some are new."

The special school caters for students aged between six and 18. Most teachers need to teach both primary and secondary school-aged students, so they are always well-prepared to take care of students from different levels. Depending on the situation, teachers will carry out small groups or one-on-one bedside teaching and each session lasts about 30 minutes.

Teachers from the Hospital Schools not only pay attention to teaching but also give extra time and energy to taking care of students' physical and mental needs.

"We care for students with disabilities and illnesses by providing them with comprehensive education so as to help them build self-confidence, positive values, and develop their potential," Ko said. "This is the philosophy of Hospital Schools and also the mission of our fellow teachers."

Over the past years, Ko has taught in different hospitals and also participated in home teaching. She is currently a teacher-in-charge of the Hospital Schools and working at the Hong Kong Children's Hospital.

Compared with ordinary schools, teachers in hospitals are faced with myriad and unique challenges, and this can prove extremely testing at times.

Giving classes to students suffering from mental illness could be tough, she said. "Fortunately, our school provided us with sufficient support by subsidizing us taking mental health-related courses, so we can better understand the needs of students."

Teachers in hospitals have to meet students with different medical conditions and face all kinds of challenges every day, but Ko regarded these experiences as drills and training, which have led her to a deeper appreciation of life.

In the course of her teaching career, Ko has witnessed many students overcome ordeals and made unremitting efforts to live full lives. She was deeply impressed by a secondary four female student who had cancer and needed to receive home-based education.

"This girl was clever and diligent. Every time I finished class with her, she would ask me to stay a little longer and listen to her playing the piano. She wanted me to give her some encouragement before attending the piano exam," Ko said, adding with a smile that the girl finally passed the exam.

Years later, the girl entered university and became the pride of her family.

The Hospital Schools has always attached importance to students' right to receive an education. Nearly 70 years since it was founded, the school has been striving to meet the different learning needs of students.

In recent years, the school has offered diversified activities, including visual arts, baking and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) activities for students to enrich their learning experiences.

Starting from the 2022/23 school year, the Hospital Schools introduced a more comprehensive senior secondary school curriculum to provide better support for hospitalized students.

"The HKSAR government has increased resources for our school, which has been very helpful, Ko said. "We can now cover more elective subjects to match the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education examination (Hong Kong's university entrance exam), which will also help students better pick up with the original school curriculum when they return to their own school after recovery."

Since 2015, the Hospital Schools has taken the three core concepts of love, perseverance and self-improvement as its motto, and encourages teachers to endeavor to carry forward the humanitarian spirit of the Hong Kong Red Cross to help students grow.

As a teacher of the Hospital Schools, Ko hoped to add color to students' lives so that they can learn with dignity even in sickness and find a fuller meaning in the hospital learning experience.

Over the years, Ko has received a lot of greeting cards from parents and students showing their appreciation and encouragement, with comments such as, "Miss Ko, thank you for your patience" and "Wishing you a good start in the new school year."

Gazing at these warm words of encouragement, she silently sent her best wishes to the students. "I hope they can soon recover and go back to school, and continue to pursue their dreams," she said. 
HOUSTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The gunman who killed eight people and injured seven others at an outlet mall in the U.S. state of Texas was identified as a suspected neo-Nazi sympathizer, local media reported on Sunday.

Mauricio Garcia, 33, armed with a rifle and a handgun, was killed by a police officer after opening fires on Saturday at the Allen Premium Outlets, about 30 miles (48 km) north of Dallas, two senior law enforcement officials told NBC News.

Garcia had several social media accounts and appeared to be drawn to neo-Nazi and white supremacist content, said the NBC News report, adding that he was wearing a patch on his chest with a right-wing acronym.

However, it was too early to ascribe a motive, said authorities.

As of Sunday morning, seven people remain hospitalized with three of them still in critical condition.

Joseph Gallagher, a store manager at the mall, told Xinhua on Saturday that he saw rounds of bullets "bounce off the pillar in front of our store" and witnessed the gunman shot dead with blood hitting the walls.

"I'm very happy to be alive ... This is horrible," said Gallagher.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, as of Saturday, about 200 mass shootings leaving four or more shot, excluding a gunman, had happened across the United States this year. 
WASHINGTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in the United States has joined the Around the World Embassy Tour of Washington D.C. to hold an open house event, presenting the traditional China-U.S. friendship and rich culture of one of China's most ethnically diverse provinces.

The event, on the theme of "Yunnan: A Many-Splendored Life," presented the beautiful province in southwestern China, attracting about 15,000 visitors on Saturday.

Heading a delegation, Wang Hao, vice governor of Yunnan, visited the Chinese embassy while art troupes from Yunnan gave a splendid performance showcasing a colorful province with vast potential and unique charm.

Present at the session were over 350 guests, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of State Rick Waters, Director of the Office of East Asia at the Department of the Treasury Joseph Dickson, former Secretary of Defense William Cohen, and foreign diplomats in the United States.

Wang, in his remarks, outlined the socioeconomic development, opening-up, history, culture, and ethnic features of Yunnan.

He recalled how, in the 1940s, the Flying Tigers fought side by side with the Chinese people in Yunnan against fascist invasion, and opened the well-known Hump route, leaving behind touching stories of China-U.S. friendship.

In recent years, Yunnan has continued to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with subnational governments in the United States, the vice governor said.

Charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in the United States Xu Xueyuan described Yunnan as a gateway to the opening-up of southwestern China.

Yunnan, she said, has excelled in pursuing growth while protecting the environment, exemplifying China's consistent efforts to uphold harmony between man and nature.

Artists from the Yunnan Huadeng Opera Theatre and the Ethnic Culture Studio of Honghe, treated the audience to a feast of authentic Yunnan performance on the stage of the Chinese Embassy.

Performers of Flying Birds, a song in the over 700-year-old Haicai tune of the Yi ethnic minority group, amazed the audience with their soaring voices.

The Huayao Dai ethnic dance Hopping with Bamboo Tubes offered a delightful glimpse into the folk life and ethnic customs of Yunnan.

The hulusi instrumental music piece Fernleaf Hedge Bamboo under the Moonlight depicted the picturesque bamboo houses of the Dai ethnic group.

The audience watched intently. Children dancing to the tunes and emulating the artists made an especially lovely scene.

Two preservers of intangible cultural heritage from Yunnan demonstrated Dongba Pictographic Calligraphy and paper-cutting art of the Dai ethnic group. 
NANNING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Qinzhou Port in south China handled 31.89 billion yuan (about 4.61 billion U.S. dollars) of goods imported and exported via the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in the first quarter of this year, an increase of 77.4 percent year on year.

The land-sea trade corridor is a trade and logistics passage jointly built by western Chinese provincial regions and ASEAN countries, with Qinzhou and several other ports in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region as major trade gateways.

Since the beginning of this year, new materials and new energy industries have become new driving forces improving the quality and volume of foreign trade via the land-sea trade corridor, according to the customs of Nanning, capital of Guangxi.

From January to March, Qinzhou Port handled 40,000 tonnes of new energy raw materials, such as nickel sulfur, nickel iron, and spodumene, imported via the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a 37-fold increase over the same period last year. 
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China has enhanced the management of memorial sites dedicated to national heroes and martyrs through legislation over the past five years, China Daily reported on Monday.

The Law on the Protection of Heroes and Martyrs came into effect on May 1, 2018. And from then to last year, Chinese prosecutors have dealt with more than 8,000 administrative public-interest cases concerning government agencies' ineffective protection of memorial sites, according to the newspaper.

This helped with the renovation of 23,000 memorial sites, the newspaper quoted Liu Dongbin, a prosecutor from the Supreme People's Procuratorate, China's top procuratorate, as saying.

The law stipulates that defamation of heroes and martyrs or distortion and diminishing of their actions are banned. It also states that television and radio programs, videos, movies, publishers and internet sites and users must not harm their name, image, reputation or honor.

Prosecutors have tackled 100 public-interest cases involving damage to the name, image, reputation and honor of heroes and martyrs during the five-year period, Liu was quoted as saying.

As the judiciary has stepped up the protection of heroes and martyrs, efforts to maintain memorial sites have also increased.

Data from the Ministry of Veterans Affairs showed that China has 160,000 facilities and sites memorializing heroes and martyrs, with 1,600 institutes specializing in their maintenance. And there are 300 Chinese national memorial facilities in 50 countries and regions across the world, where 110,000 heroes and martyrs were buried.

Over the past five years, the ministry has worked with relevant departments to renovate domestic memorial facilities, as well as focused on maintaining memorial sites overseas, according to the newspaper. 
The Serbians and the Chinese gathered at the site of the bombed former Chinese Embassy in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Belgrade on Sunday to mark the 24th anniversary of the killing of three Chinese journalists in the 1999 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) aggression on Yugoslavia.







Produced by Xinhua Global Service
First Lady of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva made a post on her official instagram page about the visit to Susha with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

The post reads:

"Viaducts, tunnels - news shape of road to Shusha. 08.05.2023."
JIUQUAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A reusable experimental spacecraft on Monday successfully returned to its scheduled landing site at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

The spacecraft returned after 276 days of in-orbit operation. The success of the experiment marks an important breakthrough in China's research on reusable spacecraft technologies, which will provide more convenient and affordable round-trip methods for the peaceful use of space in the future. 
Video: The Chinese Embassy in the United States joined the Around the World Embassy Tour of Washington D.C., and held an open house event during the weekend. (Xinhua)

Yunnan has excelled in pursuing growth while protecting the environment, exemplifying China's consistent efforts to uphold harmony between man and nature.

WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in the United States has joined the Around the World Embassy Tour of Washington D.C. to hold an open house event, presenting the traditional China-U.S. friendship and rich culture of one of China's most ethnically diverse provinces.

The event, on the theme of "Yunnan: A Many-Splendored Life," presented the beautiful province in southwestern China, attracting about 15,000 visitors on Saturday.

Heading a delegation, Wang Hao, vice governor of Yunnan, visited the Chinese embassy while art troupes from Yunnan gave a splendid performance showcasing a colorful province with vast potential and unique charm.

Visitors queue up outside the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Present at the session were over 350 guests, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of State Rick Waters, Director of the Office of East Asia at the Department of the Treasury Joseph Dickson, former Secretary of Defense William Cohen, and foreign diplomats in the United States.

Wang, in his remarks, outlined the socioeconomic development, opening-up, history, culture, and ethnic features of Yunnan.

He recalled how, in the 1940s, the Flying Tigers fought side by side with the Chinese people in Yunnan against fascist invasion, and opened the well-known Hump route, leaving behind touching stories of China-U.S. friendship.

In recent years, Yunnan has continued to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with subnational governments in the United States, the vice governor said.

Artists perform a folk song of Yi ethnic group at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in the United States Xu Xueyuan described Yunnan as a gateway to the opening-up of southwestern China.

Yunnan, she said, has excelled in pursuing growth while protecting the environment, exemplifying China's consistent efforts to uphold harmony between man and nature.

Artists from the Yunnan Huadeng Opera Theatre and the Ethnic Culture Studio of Honghe, treated the audience to a feast of authentic Yunnan performance on the stage of the Chinese Embassy.

Performers of Flying Birds, a song in the over 700-year-old Haicai tune of the Yi ethnic minority group, amazed the audience with their soaring voices.

Artists perform a folk dance of Dai ethnic group at the Chinese Embassy in the United States in Washington, D.C., the United States, on May 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

The Huayao Dai ethnic dance Hopping with Bamboo Tubes offered a delightful glimpse into the folk life and ethnic customs of Yunnan.

The hulusi instrumental music piece Fernleaf Hedge Bamboo under the Moonlight depicted the picturesque bamboo houses of the Dai ethnic group.

The audience watched intently. Children dancing to the tunes and emulating the artists made an especially lovely scene.

Two preservers of intangible cultural heritage from Yunnan demonstrated Dongba Pictographic Calligraphy and paper-cutting art of the Dai ethnic group. 
TEHRAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Monday the reopening process of the Iranian diplomatic missions in Saudi Arabia is in its final stage, according to official news agency IRNA.

Making the remarks at a weekly press conference in Tehran, Nasser Kanaani said progress has been made in preparing for the resumption of Iranian diplomatic missions' operations in Saudi Arabia.

He noted that the missions' offices in Riyadh and Jeddah are under renovation, and are currently in the "final stage" of preparation.

Saudi Arabia and Iran reached a deal in March to resume diplomatic relations and re-open their embassies and missions within two months.

On April 6, the two countries announced the resumption of diplomatic relations with immediate effect.

Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran in early 2016 in response to attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran after the kingdom executed a Shiite cleric. 
This photo taken on April 12, 2023 shows a roadside store in Pianyan ancient town, Beibei District, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Xinhua/Chen Qingbing)

CHONGQING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Adam Mahmood's story in search of "Ren," a traditional Chinese philosophy of benevolence advocated by ancient Chinese educator and philosopher Confucius, begins in the hustle and bustle of Chongqing, a southwestern Chinese metropolis.

Mahmood was one of the dozens of foreign filmmakers who participated in a documentary-making activity held by Southwest University recently. The activity aims to help young directors experience the charm of China's excellent traditional culture. What Mahmood focused on during the trip to Chongqing is "Ren," a key idea in the thoughts of Confucius.

"Prior to this journey, I have learned a little about the Chinese traditional culture of 'Ren,'" said Mahmood, the 23-year-old British national.

After taking a few hours by bus, Mahmood and his film shooting partner arrived at their final destination -- Pianyan ancient town, Beibei District of Chongqing Municipality. Tucked away in deep mountains, the town bears a history of over 300 years.

After a spring rain, birds were chirping on the local centuries-old trees while the tree leaves fell gently onto roofs of nearby old residential buildings and covered part of the stone walkways. Following the streams winding through the sleepy town, Mahmood and his partner curiously observed the surroundings with mud on their pants and shoes.

"I believe the residents here were more able to show me the culture of Pianyan than the architecture of the old town," said Mahmood as he began his visits to local residents.

Pianyan is known for its intangible cultural heritage, Tangmen Caizha, which dates back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). The old craft mainly integrates handcrafts, traditional calligraphy, and paintings as well as engraving arts.

Tangmen Caizha's artworks are all structured with bamboo strips. Local craftsmen paste paper on the structures, draw vivid colors and then attach various kinds of adornments on them. The finished products were used for dragon or lion dances and parades on important festive occasions in ancient times.

Tang Qiantai, 80, is a fourth-generation inheritor of the old craft. The senior master now volunteers to teach children in order to better preserve and revive the craft.

Thanks to Tang's efforts, the Tangmen Caizha has drawn more attention over recent years, becoming a major magnet for visitors to the ancient town. During the first seven months of 2022, over 520,000 tourists were received by the Jindaoxia scenic area, which includes the ancient town, up 85 percent year on year.

Deeply touched by Tang's spirit, Mahmood speaks highly of Tang and deems the master's efforts as a vivid image of "Ren" culture. The filmmaker even experienced the handcraft making and dragon dance himself, trying to comprehend the essence of "Ren."

Apparently, the foreigner underestimated the great difficulties of grasping the craft. "My arms ached from long hours of holding the dragon's head in the blazing sun. And I realized that dragon dance was not easy even for a young man like myself," said Mahmood.

After days of practicing the performance, Mahmood had his debut show on a sunny day, dancing with the local dragon dance team for the residents. Rounds of applause that burst from the audience spoke volumes about the success of their performance.

Mahmood recorded the whole process through his lens. The finished film was named "The Dance of 'Ren'" by him, as he began to realize the rich connotation of traditional Chinese culture and philosophy.

"The spirit of 'Ren' is not only a human trait, but also a culture that has been precipitated by thousands of years of history," said the man. "It's not only the insistence on heritage in Master Tang, but also the spirit of selflessness and dedication of Tang and friendliness of all the people in the town." 

This photo taken on April 12, 2023 shows a street in Pianyan ancient town, Beibei District, southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. (Xinhua/Chen Qingbing)
A report has shown that military expenditure in Europe shot up by 13 percent in 2022, its steepest year-on-year increase in at least 30 years. Experts warn that while the European economy has been hit hard, its "ally" the U.S. is benefiting from the increased military expenditure.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Pei Cheng/Xinhua)

This aerial panoramic photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Zhou Shegen/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Zhang Zhuojun/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Yu Xing/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Cao Qingsheng/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Meng Delong/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Gu Jihong/Xinhua)

This aerial photo taken on May 7, 2023 shows the Jiangdu Water Control Facility in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province. Located in the juncture of the Grand Canal, the New Tongyang Canal and the Huaihe River outfall waterway into the Yangtze River, the Jiangdu Water Control Facility acts as the source of the eastern route of the country's South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The Jiangdu Water Control Facility consists of 4 large-scale electrical pumping stations, 12 middle-large size water gates, 3 ship locks, transmission and transformation project and diversion waterways. (Photo by Wang Yuewu/Xinhua)
Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni (C, front) attends the royal ploughing ceremony in Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, on May 8, 2023. Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.(Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua)

KAMPONG THOM, Cambodia, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The event was to mark the annual beginning of the farming season, and royal oxen were used to plough and predict agricultural yields and weather in the year.

Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni presided over the elaborate ceremony held in central Kampong Thom province's Kampong Svay district, attracting thousands of local visitors.

At the event, King Sihamoni assigned Kampong Thom Provincial Governor Nguon Ratanak as the King of the ploughing ceremony and the governor's wife, Hong Phanny, as the Queen of the sowing ceremony.

The assigned King ploughed the rice field by using royal oxen and the designated Queen sowed seeds on the furrow as the symbol of planting.

After three rounds of ploughing across the field, the oxen were offered seven plates of food: rice, corn, green bean, sesame, water, fresh-cut grass, and wine.

The oxen had rice, corn, and green bean, and a court soothsayer predicted that the three kinds of crops would give high yields this year.

"The royal oxen ate 95 percent of rice, corn, and green bean," Kang Keng, chief of the soothsayers at the Royal Palace, said.

"This is just a prediction based on the custom of the royal ploughing ceremony that has existed since an ancient time," he said. "This ceremony is also to announce that the agricultural season has come."

As an agrarian country with a population of 16 million, agriculture created 3.12 million jobs and contributed about 24 percent to the kingdom's economy, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. 

People dressed in traditional costumes attend the royal ploughing ceremony in Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, on May 8, 2023. Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.(Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua)

Royal oxen are fed with fodder during the royal ploughing ceremony in Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, on May 8, 2023. Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua)

People dressed in traditional costumes attend the royal ploughing ceremony in Kampong Thom province, Cambodia, on May 8, 2023. Cambodia celebrated a traditional royal ploughing ceremony on Monday after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by Van Pov/Xinhua)
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The forthcoming China-Central Asia Summit is of milestone significance in the development of relations between China and Central Asian countries, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Monday.

At a routine press conference, Wang introduced relevant arrangements for the summit, which will be held on May 18 and 19 in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will chair the summit, and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov of Turkmenistan and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan will be in attendance at China's invitation.

Noting that it is the first major diplomatic activity that China hosts this year, and also the first summit held offline by the heads of state of the six countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties 31 years ago, Wang said the event is a milestone in the history of the development of relations between China and Central Asian countries.

During the summit, President Xi will deliver an important speech, and the heads of state will review the development of China-Central Asia relations and exchange views on China-Central Asia mechanism building, cooperation in various fields and major international and regional issues of common interest, according to Wang.

The heads of state will also sign important political documents, Wang added.

"With the joint efforts of all parties, we believe this summit will draw a new blueprint for China-Central Asia relations and open up a new era of cooperation," Wang said.

At the invitation of President Xi, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, President Sadyr Japarov of Kyrgyzstan, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan will pay a state visit to China from May 16 to 20.

President Xi will hold separate talks with the presidents of the four countries, Wang said, adding that China is making meticulous preparations with all parties to ensure the complete success of the visit.

China and Central Asian countries are friendly neighbors and comprehensive strategic partners, Wang said, adding that the two sides have always followed the principles of mutual respect, good neighborliness, friendship, mutual assistance, and win-win cooperation in developing relations.

The two sides have become good neighbors, good friends, good partners and good brothers through deepening political mutual trust, upgrading practical cooperation and strengthening international cooperation, Wang added.

"China is ready to work with Central Asian countries to take the above visits as an opportunity to further expand all-round cooperation, lift bilateral relations to a new level and contribute to regional and world peace, stability, development and prosperity," Wang said. 
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with representatives to the 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 8, 2023. 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, and Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, were present at the meeting. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, on Monday met with representatives to the 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

On behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, Xi expressed warm welcome to the representatives and extended sincere greetings to overseas Chinese around the world.

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, and Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, were present at the meeting.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the conference on Monday, 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, expressed the hope that overseas Chinese will work together to act on the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, actively promote world peace, global development and win-win cooperation, and advance friendship and exchanges between China and other countries.

The 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations was attended by nearly 500 leading members of overseas Chinese associations from more than 130 countries and regions. 

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, meets with representatives to the 10th Conference for Friendship of Overseas Chinese Associations at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 8, 2023. 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, and Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, were present at the meeting. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have visited Shusha.

The President and the First Lady examined the progress of work at the 66th-81st kilometer section of the Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway.

Chairman of the Board of the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads Saleh Mammadov informed the head of state about the progress of work.

The construction of the 81.7 km-long Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway, which begins at the M6 Hajigabul-Horadiz-Aghband-Zangazur corridor highway and links liberated Fuzuli, Khojavand, Khojaly and Shusha districts, continues in line with international highway standards. 85% of the works at the 66th-81st kilometer section of the four-lane motorway have been completed.

Under the project, the major parts of the construction of five viaducts, six tunnels and a bridge have been completed in this part of the highway.

The head of state and the First Lady watched a video highlighting the progress of work.

The construction of the Ahmadbayli-Fuzuli-Shusha highway is planned to be completed in 2024.
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Xinhua News Agency signed a framework cooperation agreement with China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Monday to promote high-quality development of the country's cultural sector and tourism.

The two organizations aim to establish a long-term, intensive and stable cooperative relationship in areas such as media integration and international communication, according to the agreement.

The two sides will enhance mutual visits and exchanges, jointly launch research projects and work together in publicity projects in areas including creative arts, protection of cultural heritage, cultural industry, and international promotion of Chinese culture and tourism, according to the agreement. 
BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday called on China and Britain to promote bilateral relationship after calibrating its right direction in the new situation.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks in a phone conversation with Tim Barrow, Britain's national security adviser, at the latter's request.

Stressing that China attaches great importance to its relationship with Britain, Wang said that China has taken note of recent remarks from the British side, which expressed willingness to maintain open, constructive, and stable relations with China, and rejected the idea of a "new Cold War" or isolating China.

These remarks showed that the British side is willing to objectively view China's development, he said.

Wang said he hopes that China and Britain can meet each other halfway, maintain the momentum of bilateral exchanges, wipe out distractions, focus on cooperation, and properly handle differences.

China is the only major country among the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) that has not achieved complete reunification, Wang noted.

It is both a historical fact and a global consensus that Taiwan is part of China, he said, adding that achieving peaceful reunification is a long-cherished wish of both the 1.4 billion Chinese people and all the Chinese descendants across the world.

It is hoped that the British side will continue to abide by the one-China principle, respect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, adhere to the principle of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, and respect each other's core interests and major concerns, he said.

For his part, Barrow said that both Britain and China are permanent members of the UNSC and major countries with global influence.

The British side continues to pursue the one-China policy and is willing to work with China to maintain communication and exchanges, deepen cooperation, promote the establishment of a stable, healthy and mature bilateral relationship, and jointly address global challenges, he said.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Wang reiterated China's stance of facilitating talks for peace and hoped that all parties would avoid actions that could further escalate the situation. 
ADDIS ABABA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Monday called for urgent funding to respond to the growing humanitarian needs in Ethiopia.

UNICEF, in its latest Ethiopia humanitarian situation report issued Monday, said its Humanitarian Action for Children (HAC) 2023 Appeal requires 674.3 million U.S. dollars to meet the critical humanitarian needs of children, adolescents, women, and men in the East African country.

It said the figure represents an increase of nearly 142 million U.S. dollars from 2022 due to ongoing drought driven by climatic shocks, the scale-up of humanitarian interventions in northern Ethiopia following the cessation of hostilities, inter-communal conflict throughout the country, and flooding, among others.

It further attributed the increase to numerous public health emergencies, including an outbreak of cholera in southern and south-eastern Ethiopia. It said the humanitarian challenges are "deepening food insecurity and leading to persistently high levels of overall need."

According to the UN Children's Fund, including 50.9 million U.S. dollars in funds carried over from 2022, only 111.2 million U.S. dollars has been received towards the appeal to date.

It said the financial amount received thus far represents only 16 percent of the required needs to reach children and their families with critical lifesaving and life-sustaining support.

Within the appeal, the response to conflict-affected northern Ethiopia and drought response took the center stage, in which funding dedicated to the response in northern Ethiopia has been budgeted at 255.7 million U.S. dollars and fully incorporated into the HAC, according to UNICEF.

Another 345.4 million U.S. dollars within the HAC has been dedicated to responding to the severe drought that has impacted over 24 million people across four regions in Ethiopia, it said. The remaining amount of the appeal was made to address additional areas of humanitarian intervention.

"UNICEF continues to appeal for support to close the remaining gaps and to ensure that children and their caregivers receive lifesaving support in 2023 and beyond," it said.

Since the beginning of 2023, UNICEF has been able to mobilize 35.8 million U.S. dollars for the Northern Ethiopia Response Plan and 33.3 million U.S. dollars for the drought response. 
TOKYO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Three men have been taken into custody after robbing a luxury watch store in central western Tokyo on Monday, according to local authorities.

At around 6:30 p.m. local time, three masked men broke into a luxury watch store in Tokyo's posh Ginza district.

Videos posted on social media showed that the robbers smashed the showcases, and carried off watches and other items before fleeing the scene in a car.

The men took more than 30 luxury watches with a total worth of about 100 million yen (about 740,672 U.S. dollars), according to local media reports.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department reported that all three men are now taken into custody.

Located in an area with multiple brand stores and restaurants, the shop is about 400 meters west of Tokyo Metro Ginza Station. 
SEOUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's jobless claims rose last month amid growing worry about economic slump, labor ministry data showed on Monday.

The number of new applicants for job-seeking benefits was 96,000 in April, up 3.1 percent from the same month of last year, according to the Ministry of Employment and Labor.

It was down from an increase of 8.5 percent in March, but the number rebounded this year on the mounting worry about the economic downturn driven by continued export fall and faltering housing market.

The benefit applicants mainly expanded in the construction, the information and communications, and the lodging and eatery sectors.

Financed by the state employment insurance fund, the job-seeking benefits are offered by the government to help the unemployed seek jobs, taking up a majority of unemployment benefits.

The number of the benefit receivers totaled 658,000 in April, up 0.9 percent from a year earlier. It kept an upward trend for the third straight month.

The total payment of job-seeking benefits declined 1.1 percent to 961.7 billion won (727.5 million U.S. dollars) last month.

The per-capita payment reduced 2.0 percent to about 1.46 million won (1,100 U.S. dollars) in the cited month. 
PHNOM PENH, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Some 20 political parties had registered to contest in Cambodia's forthcoming general election, as a 15-day party registration period ended on Monday, the National Election Committee (NEC) said in a press statement.

"Twenty political parties have registered with the NEC to compete in the seventh National Assembly election, and 11 of them have been officially recognized," the statement said.

The NEC will decide within a week whether it will recognize the nine other registered political parties.

The Southeast Asian nation is scheduled to hold a general election for the 125-seat National Assembly on July 23, 2023, and more than 9.7 million Cambodians have registered to cast their ballots.

In the last general election held five years ago, 20 political parties participated in the race. As a result, the ruling Cambodian People's Party won all 125 seats in the parliament. 
TOKYO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A gas smell was reported on Monday at an elementary school in Japan's Osaka Prefecture, where dozens of students complained of feeling unwell, local authorities have said.

At around 10 a.m. local time, a strange gas-like smell was reported at Kamei Elementary School in the city of Yao, Osaka Prefecture, according to local police.

So far, 51 children who complained of poor health conditions have been taken to the hospital after all children were evacuated from the school building, the police reported. No children report severe symptoms.

It has been confirmed that there was no gas leakage in the school building, with the origin of the smell still under investigation, according to local authorities. 
ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan is conveying to the region and beyond that it desires to forge a new foreign policy based on cooperative dialogue and joint interactions, Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan interim government Amir Khan Muttaqi said on Monday.

"When it comes to the region, our focus is on increasing economic ties with economic connectivity and transit at its core," Muttaqi said while addressing a seminar here at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), an Islamabad-based think tank.

He said there is significant regional interest in economic connectivity through Afghanistan, particularly connecting Central Asia to South Asia and beyond.

The acting foreign minister noted that the region is finally able to make its decades-long aspirations of joint economic prosperity a reality not only for Afghanistan but for the entire region.

Highlighting the economic situation of Afghanistan, Muttaqi said that the country has made good progress in agriculture, mineral, health, and other sectors, adding that efforts are now underway to attract domestic and foreign investment as well as create opportunities for the technical class to find employment in Afghanistan.

He further added that the end of the United States' presence in Afghanistan ended the corruption, different militant groups and warring parties that were present in the country.

"We seek good relations with all our neighbors and we will not allow anyone to use the territory of Afghanistan against anyone else, and we will remain committed to this pledge in the future," according to the acting foreign minister. 
FRANKFURT, May 7 (Xinhua) -- More German companies reportedly consider relocating their production abroad due to high cost structures, according to German experts and media reports.

A recent survey conducted by the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) showed that investing abroad is currently more attractive for many German companies than in Germany.

"While business expectations abroad are now being assessed much more positively again, it is noticeable that companies in Germany do not share this optimism to the same extent", said the German newspaper Welt.

Volker Treier, DIHK head of foreign trade, attributed the trend of companies moving abroad to high cost structures in Germany, with energy prices being a major factor.

As a result, a "sneaky move" of companies is occurring, said Treier.

A new debate about locations is also taking place, "which we should conduct with great openness," said Karl Haeusgen, president of the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA).

Some German companies have already scaled down production or increasingly relocated abroad, according to German newspaper Bild.

Haeusgen called on clear statements on how Germany and Europe are to be secured and strengthened as industrial locations in the coming years. 
BERLIN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- German industry produced 3.4 percent less in March than in the previous month, after output had risen for two months in a row at the start of 2023, the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) said on Monday.

The decline affected most industries of Europe's largest economy. Production in the country's important automotive sector dropped 6.5 percent.

"Following a buoyant performance by industry at the beginning of the year, there was an unexpectedly sharp decline in March," the German Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) said in a statement.

The improved mood among German businesses, however, was "pointing to an economic recovery through the rest of 2023," the ministry said.

Economists are more negative about the development. "Industry is more likely to be at a standstill instead of the hoped-for recovery," said Jupp Zenzen, economic expert at the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK).

New orders for German manufacturing companies dropped 10.7 percent month-on-month in March. This was the sharpest decline since April 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic paralyzed economies around the world.

This is a "warning signal for economic development," Zenzen said. "Even diminishing material bottlenecks and lower energy prices cannot compensate for the cloudy global economy and sluggish domestic demand."

The International Monetary Fund expects the global economic growth to slow from 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.8 percent this year. Boosted by China's reopening, Asia would contribute around 70 percent of global growth, "a much greater share than in recent years." 
Ukraine said on Saturday that 45 soldiers returned home in a new round of prisoner exchange with Russia amid the ongoing war.

The recent prisoner exchange took place on Saturday, the Ukrainian Ministry of Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories said in a statement.

42 of those released are men and three are women. They are all soldiers of the Azov Brigade which was formed nine years ago, the ministry said.

Earlier on Saturday, the Russian Defense Ministry said three Russian pilots were returned from captivity in Ukraine.

"As a result of a difficult negotiation process, three Russian servicemen  pilots of the Russian Aerospace Forces who were in mortal danger in captivity were returned from the territory controlled by the Kyiv regime," said a ministry statement.

The previous prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine took place on April 16, with the two countries announcing swaps from the ongoing 14-month conflict on a monthly basis.
Photo taken on May 8, 2023 shows crosses with heart-shaped boards and flowers in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden ordered on Sunday the country's flag to be flown at half-staff as a mark of respect for the victims of the mass shooting at a mall in Allen, Texas.

Biden directed that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations until sunset on May 11, 2023.

He also ordered the flag lowered at all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad.

Federal, state, and local law enforcement are "working closely together to investigate this attack," Biden said, adding that he has asked federal agencies to provide all needed support.

Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer.

"Such an attack is too shocking to be so familiar," Biden said in a statement issued on Sunday. "Too many families have empty chairs at their dinner tables."

The United States has suffered 199 mass shootings so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which defines a mass shooting as one in which at least four people are shot, excluding the shooter.

More than 14,670 people have lost their lives due to gun violence across the country in the past several months, the website's data also showed.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said on Sunday that he has spoken to Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Allen Mayor Ken Fulk.

"Another horrific tragedy in our country," Mayorkas said during an interview with CBS News. "It's under investigation. The state and local authorities are leading that investigation."

Guns are one of the most divisive issues in the United States. Democrats are in general in support of more gun control while most Republicans argue that gun rights should not be infringed upon.

The gun debate has therefore waxed and waned over the years, stirred by frequent mass shootings across American states and cities.

"We have completely jumped the shark as a nation," David Axelrod, a renowned American political strategist and commentator, tweeted early Sunday morning.

"The world looks at us in absolute bewilderment as we slaughter each other with guns, and throw our hands up in resignation," Axelrod also wrote. "It's pathetic." 

A woman helps a girl write on a memory board to mourn victims of a mass shooting in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States, on May 8, 2023. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

Photo taken on May 8, 2023 shows a cross with flowers and toys underneath in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

A woman puts flowers on a cross to mourn victims of a mass shooting in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States, on May 8, 2023. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

People mourn victims of a mass shooting in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States, on May 8, 2023. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

A girl writes on a memory board to mourn victims of a mass shooting in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States, on May 8, 2023. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)

People mourn victims of a mass shooting in front of an outlet mall in Allen, Texas, the United States, on May 8, 2023. Eight people died and at least seven others were wounded after a shooter opened fire at the outlet mall in Allen on Saturday afternoon. The gunman was killed by a police officer. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua)
Russia circumvents sanctions by buying German goods through CIS countries, Bild report says 8 May, 11:56 PM Russia buys goods from Germany to circumvent sanctions (Photo:CHUTTERSNAP \ Unsplash)

Despite the 10 rounds of EU sanctions limiting trade with Russia, Moscow has continued to import German goods via a series of elaborate schemes involving several CIS countries, German newspaper Bild reported on May 8, citing official German statistics.

Bild reports that exports of certain categories of goods from Germany to CIS countries have at least doubled since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Data from Germanys Federal Statistical Office supports this claim. David O'Sullivan, EU's special representative on sanctions, has also noted that Germany is increasingly supplying goods to CIS countries.

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The supply of German goods to Tajikistan increased by 150% in 2022, to Belarus by 77%, and to Kyrgyzstan  by a staggering 994%.

According to the German Eastern Business Association, car and auto parts exports from Germany to Kazakhstan increased by 507%; to Armenia  by 761% in 2022.

The exports of chemical products to Kazakhstan increased by 129%, Armenia by 110%. Electrical equipment exports increased by 344% to Armenia and by 105%  to Uzbekistan.

The supply of metal goods to Kazakhstan increased by 137% and clothing  by 88%.

The German government believes that these goods may ultimately be supplied to Russia, circumventing existing sanctions through so-called parallel imports.

Recent media reports suggested that the United States, Europe, and other key allies of Ukraine plan on imposing new sanctions against Russia to increase pressure on the Russian economy.

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Poland handed over 10 MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, minister says 8 May, 08:42 PM MiG-29 (Photo:REUTERS/Lukasz Glowala)

Warsaw has already transferred 10 Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said during a joint briefing with his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand, on May 8.

Blaszczak thanked the Canadian government for contributing to the international effort to supply Ukraine with German-made Leopard main battle tanks, adding that he expects Russia's war against Ukraine to continue for a while.

Unfortunately, the war in Ukraine will continue for a long time, at least it seems so, said Blaszczak.

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This means that we must continue to work to curb the imperial ambitions of Russia, which is engaged in the practice of annexing the territories of neighboring countries.

Poland and Slovakia were the first NATO countries to provide combat aircraft to Ukraine. Slovakia previously delivered four Soviet-made MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine on March 23, and later delivered all 13 of the promised jets on April 17.

Although Ukraine considers the transfer of these upgraded aircraft to be significant assistance, the countrys military insists it needs modern multi-purpose aircraft to achieve air superiority.

Overall, Poland's transfer of fighter jets marks significant assistance for Ukraine, although it will likely a marginal effect on the course of the war.

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Russia seeks to manufacture Iranian drones in Belarus, Kyiv says 8 May, 08:32 PM Drone training at an unknown location in Iran (Photo:Iranian Army/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS)

Russia is exploring the possibility of setting up production of Iranian-designed Shahed kamikaze drones in Belarus, Ukraines National Resistance Center reported on May 8.

According to Belarusian resistance sources, a work group of Iranian engineers, accompanied by the Russian and Belarusian security services, visited the Homel Radio Plant in south-eastern Belarus. During the visit, they discussed potentially producing combat drones domestically.

The message suggests that Russia continues to exert considerable influence over Belarus' defense sector. Manufacturing drones in Belarus could help Moscow solve logistical issues with transporting Shaheds from Iran.

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Russia relies on Iranian-made drones for sustained attacks on Ukrainian cities: on May 8, as many as 35 Shahed UAVs were shot down over Kyiv, attempting to strike the capital from several directions.

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GUANGZHOU, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 133rd Canton Fair's offline exhibition has drawn to a close, marking a significant milestone in the return to normalcy after the pandemic. With an active attendance of overseas buyers, numerous new product launches and better-than-expected export transactions achieved, the event has been hailed as a triumph. After that, the online platform of the 133rd Canton Fair continues to operate normally.

"Through its efficient, safe, digital, and green operations, the 133rd Canton Fair has successfully served as a positive force in promoting stable foreign trade scale and structure, all-round opening up, and the creation of a new development pattern," said Xu Bing, spokesperson and Deputy Director General of the China Foreign Trade Centre.

The 133rd Canton Fair witnessed a remarkable turnout of international buyers from 229 countries and regions, with 129,006 attendees from 213 countries and regions who attended offline. The Fair welcomed a diverse range of 55 industrial and commercial organizations, such as the prestigious Malaysia-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, CCI France Chine, and China Chamber of Commerce & Technology Mexico. Over 100 leading multinational companies, including Wal-Mart from the United States, Auchan from France, Metro from Germany, organized buyers to attend the Fair. The Fair's online platform saw a surging attendance of 390,574 overseas buyers.

Exhibitors at this year's event uploaded a staggering 3.07 million exhibits, including over 800,000 new products, roughly 130,000 smart products, 500,000 green and low-carbon products, and more than 260,000 products with independent IPR. The Canton Fair, a resounding success, features over 300 debut events for the unveiling of new products. From high-end to intelligent, customized to branded, and green low-carbon goods, the Fair demonstrated China's manufacturing prowess and its commitment to excellence. Global buyers are impressed with the vast array of products on display, which highlighted China's resilience and vitality in foreign trade. It's clear that China's leading manufacturers are out in full force, showcasing the latest and greatest in creativity and ingenuity.

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The export transactions closed at the 133rd Canton Fair onsite reached 21.69 billion USD, an achievement better than expected. In addition, many buyers have also appointed factory visits and expected to reach more cooperation in the future.

For more information about Canton Fair, please visit https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US or contact caiyiyi@cantonfair.org.cn.

SOURCE Canton Fair
In this article, we take a look at the 15 high paying jobs for felons that offer a second chance. For more on this, go to 5 High Paying Jobs for Felons That Offer a Second Chance.

Finding a suitable job is a challenging task by itself, and this challenge becomes even more intense for people with a criminal record. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, former inmates face unemployment at a rate of over 27%. This is higher than the total US unemployment rate even during the Great Depression.

Naturally, the lack of employment opportunities makes it difficult for them to reintegrate into society and can potentially drag them back into the vicious cycle of crime and punishment.

Employment can be a significant factor in reducing the likelihood of them being repeat offenders. A job provides financial stability, and it also instills a sense of purpose, responsibility, and self-esteem. Ultimately, employment can be the deciding factor in whether the individual is able to successfully reintegrate in the mainstream society.

Luckily, there are several professions open to felons with employers willing to give them a second chance. In this article, we will be looking at some high-paying jobs that felons can use as an opportunity to build a career and start anew.

Industry Trends and Key Players

Going by the industry trends, most employers are open to hiring individuals with criminal records. 80% of the US population lives in jurisdictions that have banned the box. "Ban the box" legislation refers to the legal restriction on employers asking candidates about criminal history on job applications. This enables the candidates to be judged fairly on the basis of their qualifications before their records are considered. However, it is important to note that some companies might still conduct a background check. Regardless of the background check, there is still a possibility that the company may still hire a qualified candidate if they prove to be a good fit.

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According to a 2018 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, 82% of managers and 67% of HRs interviewed agree that the "quality of hire" for those with a criminal record is equal or even higher than non-felons. The key players, according to the same survey, are government agencies, at 83%. Government agencies are then publicly owned for-profits at 78%, followed by 76% privately owned for profits, and 75% nonprofits.

In general, we can see a trend towards fair-chance hiring practices. An increasing number of employers now accept the fact that felons can be valuable employees. Companies that wish to prioritize diversity, and inclusion, might make the hiring of felons even more common in the coming years.

Outlook: 2023 and Beyond

As we look towards 2023 and beyond, there is a growing trend towards fair chance hiring practices. This is because many industries are facing a shortage of skilled workers and employers are recognizing the value of hiring individuals with criminal records. By tapping into this previously untapped pool of talent, companies can demonstrate their commitment to diversity and inclusion, and improve their chances of finding qualified candidates for open positions. We may also see more "ban the box" legislation that prohibits employers from asking about criminal history on job applications. Finally, the emergence of more organizations and initiatives dedicated to fair chance hiring is expected as more employers recognize the benefits of this approach. Overall, fair chance hiring practices are likely to become more common and accepted in the coming years.

15 High Paying Jobs for Felons That Offer a Second Chance

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Our methodology

We used a comprehensive approach to identify high-paying jobs suitable for felons. We used the data exclusively from the authoritative databases of Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) and Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) which are managed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. We then cross-checked this information with Payscale and job postings to identify jobs that were more likely to hire individuals with criminal records.

To ensure the accuracy of our findings, we reviewed industry reports and publications. We ranked potential jobs based on their median salary and likelihood of being open to individuals with criminal records. After combining all the findings, a list of 15 high paying jobs for felons is prepared and presented in ascending order below. The methodology is not an exact science, and each individual's situation may differ. Even so, we believe our approach offers valuable insight into the types of jobs that provide financial stability and a path to long-term career success for individuals with criminal records.

Here are the 15 high paying jobs that felons can look up to for reintegration in society:

15. Sales Representatives

Median Annual Salary: $35,290

Sales representatives play a crucial role in the growth of businesses, making it an ideal career for felons seeking to make a positive impact. The barrier for entry is as low as a high school diploma, but strong communication skills are a must-have for this job role. As they achieve sales targets and contribute to their company's success, they're rewarded with a stable income and appraisals. In some cases, employers also offer additional monetary and non-monetary incentives which make sales a more lucrative job role compared to others.

14. Construction Workers & Laborers

Median Annual Salary: $40,750

The construction industry is a foundation of economic growth in the US, offering felons the chance to build a brighter future. With no formal education required, they can easily find employment as construction workers and laborers. As per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is projected to grow at 4% in 2021-2031, which is not very far from the average growth rate (5%) of all occupations during the same time period. Job duties can include working on the construction sites, completing any small tasks and more.

Moreover, an associate or bachelors degree in civil engineering or relevant field can also make one eligible for a higher position in construction management-related work which can be more lucrative.

13. Oil Field Workers

Median Annual Salary: $43,590

Oil field jobs offer a solid income for hardworking individuals. Roustabouts, in particular, can benefit from the stability and structure provided by these roles. They are in charge of maintaining equipment, unload supplies, and assisting drillers on oil and gas rigs. With just a high school diploma and on-the-job training, felons can easily secure and do the job easing their way towards society reintegration.

12. Automotive Mechanics & Technicians

Median Annual Salary: $46,970

A degree can be beneficial but it is not a necessity if one is ready to learn the art of fixing machines, and equipment to get a skillful career like mechanics. About 73,300 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The growth rate is slightly low, but still felons can capitalize these available opportunities to make a good living.

11. Welders

Median Annual Salary: $47,540

Welding offers a unique blend of craftsmanship and technical skill. The job duties include repairing various metals with the tools and machines with the help of heat. By 2024, it is expected that the US would need around another 300,000 welders to meet its Labor demands. As there is already a shortage of welding technicians, employers are more likely to ignore the criminal history of skillful workers to fulfill rising demands.

10. Truck Drivers

Median Annual Salary: $49,920

A truck driving job can be a perfect fit for the felons who are well aware of roadways and maps of the US. Truck drivers transport goods and maintain the flow of commerce throughout the nation. A survey by the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics suggests trucks lie at the core of the freight transportation market of the US from the past two decades and are projected to grow more. This field offers not only a respectable income but also the chance to explore various regions and build a network of connections in the industry.

The way to get into occupation is also easy with just requiring a high school diploma and valid commercial driver's license.

9. Delivery Service Providers

Median Annual Salary: $51,023

As the globe gets more networked and eCommerce experiences significant improvements, there is an increase in the demand for delivery service providers. The freedom of the open road and the satisfaction of delivering goods to their destinations are just some of the perks of this career. Best part, felons with just even a high school diploma and a valid driver's license can also secure the position as delivery drivers.

8. Carpenters

Median Annual Salary: $51,390

Carpentry offers a unique blend of artistry and practical skill, making it an excellent career choice for individuals who love working around art and craft. As per U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be around 91,200 job openings for carpenters each year on average, over the next ten years. This clearly pictures growth in demand of carpenters over next few years.

Felons are just required to have the know-how of intricate woodworking and construction. The more they tarnish their skills, the more they can earn.

7. HVAC Technicians

Median Annual Salary: $51,390

For individuals seeking a career with growth potential and a stable income, becoming an HVAC technician is an excellent choice. Alongside the satisfaction of helping people maintain comfortable living and working spaces, HVAC technicians can benefit from the industry's financial rewards and focus on improving energy efficiency. However, high school diploma and vocational training or an apprenticeship is must in order to tackle residential and commercial climate control systems.

6. Plumbers

Median Annual Salary: $60,090

As a plumber, individual can forge a successful career while providing valuable services to homes and businesses. Requiring a high school diploma and vocational training or an apprenticeship, the skill of installing, maintaining, and repairing water and gas systems has very good earning potential. The job role of plumber may seem simple to some, but in many cases, skilled plumbers earn even more than many white collar jobs, such as customer service representatives and office assistants who have a median hourly wage of $15 to $17.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 High Paying Jobs for Felons That Offer a Second Chance. Suggested Articles:

Disclosure: none. 15 High Paying Jobs for Felons That Offer a Second Chance is originally published on Insider Monkey.
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Warren Buffett is quite possibly the greatest investor of all time. For decades, the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway -- nicknamed the "Oracle of Omaha" -- has shown his ability to read Wall Street like a book. He has a net worth of nearly $114.3 billion, according to Forbes, making him one of the richest people on the planet.

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Despite his investing prowess, he has made a few mistakes over the years -- and he continues to make some major missteps. Unlike some executives who try to pass the blame to an underling, Buffett owns his errors and assumes full responsibility when he fails to deliver to shareholders. If you're trying to sharpen your investing game, you might learn a lot from the past losses that have led to Buffett's hard-earned wisdom.

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Buying Berkshire Hathaway

In a 2010 interview with Becky Quick on CNBC, Warren Buffett said the dumbest stock he ever bought was -- drum roll, please -- Berkshire Hathaway.

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Buffett explained that he first invested in Berkshire Hathaway in 1962 when it was a failing textile company. He thought he would make a profit when more mills closed, so he loaded up on the stock. Later, the firm tried to chisel Buffett out of more money. A spiteful Buffett bought control of the company, fired the manager and tried to keep the textile business running for another 20 years. Buffett estimated that this vindictive move cost him $200 billion.

The investment advice here is not to let emotions factor into your financial decisions.

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Purchasing Waumbec Textile Company

Despite regretting the purchase of failing textile company Berkshire Hathaway in 1962, Buffett did the same thing 13 years later when he purchased Waumbec Mills -- another New England textile company.

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"The purchase price was a bargain based on the assets we received and the projected synergies with Berkshire's existing textile business," Buffett wrote in his 2014 shareholders letter.

Admitting his mistake, Buffett revealed his decision to buy Waumbec was a terrible one, as the mill had to be shuttered not too many years after Berkshire acquired it in 1975.

The chief lesson from Buffett's poor investment in Waumbec is to learn from your previous mistakes. When making investments, if at first you don't succeed, move on to a new strategy.

Take Our Poll: Who Has Given You the Best Money Advice You Have Ever Received?

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Investing In Tesco

Berkshire Hathaway owned 415 million shares of U.K.-based grocer Tesco at the end of 2012. The firm sold some stock but remained heavily invested. In 2014, the grocer overstated its profits and shares tumbled.

In his 2014 letter to shareholders, Buffett said concerns about Tesco management motivated his initial sale of stock, which resulted in a $43 million profit. Unfortunately, he didn't move quickly on the rest.

"An attentive investor, I'm embarrassed to report, would have sold Tesco shares earlier. I made a big mistake with this investment by dawdling," Buffett wrote. He admitted the move cost the company a $444 million after-tax loss.

The lesson from this piece of Warren Buffett history is to make decisions promptly.

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Purchasing Dexter Shoe Co.

In 1993, Warren Buffett purchased Dexter Shoe Co. for $433 million in Berkshire Hathaway stock. In his 2007 letter to shareholders, Buffett explained the poor decision, admitting it cost investors $3.5 billion. At the time, this was 1.6 percent of Berkshire Hathaway's net worth. He had assessed the company as having a "durable competitive advantage," but that apparently vanished within just a matter of years.

"To date, Dexter is the worst deal that I've made. But I'll make more mistakes in the future -- you can bet on that," Buffett wrote.

The worst of Warren Buffett's stock picks underscores a key lesson: A company is at its best if it has a viable competitive advantage. If there's no solid reason for customers to continue patronizing a brand, it's likely destined for failure.

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Using Berkshire Stock to Buy Dexter Shoe Co.

Warren Buffett hasn't held back with his regrets over buying Dexter Shoe Co., but in his 2014 letter to shareholders, he expressed frustration over how he paid the $433 million purchase price. Rather than giving the sellers cash, he used Berkshire shares to fund the purchase. At the time when he wrote the letter, he revealed that those shares were valued at $5.7 billion.

"As a financial disaster, this one deserves a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records," he wrote.

You're probably not buying and selling million-dollar companies, but you can learn from Buffett's mistake by ensuring your resources are properly allocated. If your current portfolio is performing well, don't pull money from solid investments to take a chance on a wild card.

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Taking on Debt From Energy Future Holdings

In his 2013 letter to shareholders, Buffett explained his debacle with Energy Future Holdings. The equity owners ponied up $8 billion and borrowed even more.

"About $2 billion of the debt was purchased by Berkshire, pursuant to a decision I made without consulting with Charlie," Buffett wrote, referring to Charles Munger, Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman.

Buffett correctly predicted Energy Future Holdings would file for bankruptcy. He said Berkshire Hathaway sold its holdings for $259 million in 2013, but not before suffering an $873 million pre-tax loss.

The lesson of this Warren Buffett loss is to run big decisions by a business partner or trusted confidant before diving in headfirst.

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Not Buying the Dallas-Fort Worth NBC Station

Not all Warren Buffett advice stems from financial losses -- he's also had some missed opportunities. One of his regrets is not buying the Dallas-Fort Worth NBC station for $35 million.

In his 2007 letter to shareholders, Buffett explained that he passed up the chance to purchase the station around the time he bought See's Candies in 1972. He turned down the offer despite wholeheartedly trusting the person who made it, knowing there was excellent growth potential and it would require essentially no capital investment.

Reminiscing about the missed opportunity, Buffett pointed out that the station earned $73 million pre-tax in 2006, and at the time he wrote the letter, it was valued at $800 million.

The moral of this story is to take advantage of a good opportunity when it comes knocking.

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Issuing Extra Shares of Berkshire Hathaway To Buy General Reinsurance

The 1998 purchase of General Reinsurance (General Re) was initially not the best move for Warren Buffett's investment strategy. Buffett eventually turned things around, but he does have some regrets.

"After some early problems, General Re has become a fine insurance operation that we prize," wrote Buffett in his 2016 letter to shareholders. "It was, nevertheless, a terrible mistake on my part to issue 272,200 shares of Berkshire in buying General Re, an act that increased our outstanding shares by a whopping 21.8 percent. My error caused Berkshire shareholders to give far more than they received (a practice that -- despite the Biblical endorsement -- is far from blessed when you are buying businesses)."

The lesson here is to fix your mistakes the right way and enjoy the rewards of success.

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Not Performing Proper Due Diligence When Buying General Reinsurance

Multiple investment tips can be garnered from Warren Buffett's acquisition of General Reinsurance.

In his 2001 shareholder's letter, he offered more insights into the reason Berkshire Hathaway took such a large initial hit on the purchase. This included enduring underwriting losses, overlooking the possibility of terrorist attacks and failing to realize General Re didn't have enough in reserve to pay losses from old policies. Berkshire Hathaway realized $800 million in losses from the latter in 2001.

The lesson here is to double-check the numbers and run them by several trusted advisors. You should always know what a worst-case scenario could cost you.

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Buying a Large Amount of ConocoPhillips Stock

In his 2008 shareholders letter, Buffett wrote, "Without urging from Charlie or anyone else, I bought a large amount of ConocoPhillips stock when oil and gas prices were near their peak. I in no way anticipated the dramatic fall in energy prices that occurred in the last half of the year."

Buffett spent just over $7 billion on 85 million shares of ConocoPhillips, but its market value at the time of the letter was only about $4.4 billion.

Warren Buffett mistakes like this one again emphasize the importance of consulting people you trust before making a major investment. Sometimes, getting a different perspective is the best way to see the big picture.

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Failing To Dig Deep Into Lubrizol Corp. Stock

In 2011, Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway were under fire after it was revealed that David Sokol, then-chairman of several of the firm's subsidiaries, pitched Lubrizol Corp. to Buffett as a potential takeover. The problem was that Sokol owned stock in the chemicals company.

Berkshire bought Lubrizol for roughly $9 billion, and Sokol earned a $3 million profit. Since he hadn't disclosed his stock ownership to Buffett, this violated insider-trading rules.

Buffett didn't realize his mistake immediately, but at the 2011 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, he admitted that he should have probed deeper with Sokol.

The investment advice to follow here is not to be overly trusting. Ask more questions than you think are necessary, because you can't be too careful when your reputation is on the line.

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Opting Not To Buy Amazon Stock Sooner

In a February 2017 interview with "Squawk Box," Buffett was asked why he'd never bought stock in Amazon. He admitted he didn't have a good answer.

"Obviously, I should have bought it long ago, because I admired it long ago," he said. "But I didn't understand the power of the model as I went along. And the price always seemed to more than reflect the power of the model at that time. So, it's one I missed big time."

Warren Buffett's investments never include businesses he doesn't understand, which is both good and bad. Backing companies blindly is not a smart move, but shying away from them isn't wise, either. Partnering with someone whose strengths differ from yours can help you avoid missing out on great opportunities.

In an effort to get with the times (and make some more money) as of May 2019 Berkshire Hathaway owns 537,300 shares of Amazon, worth about $947 million.

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Purchasing US Airways Stock

US Airways didn't join the ranks of failed Berkshire Hathaway investments, but Buffett does regret his 1989 purchase of $358 million worth of shares in the now-consolidated airline.

The shares never appreciated, but after weathering turmoil, Forbes reported that Buffett likely got all his principal and dividends back. Buffett credited the airline's rebound to both his and Munger's exit from the board and the arrival of CEO Stephen Wolf. He praised the latter for saving what could've been a very costly investment.

The moral of the story is to research every investment before buying, so you know exactly what you're getting into -- whether you're a beginning investor or a longtime pro.

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Missing His Chance To Invest In Google

Warren Buffett's portfolio doesn't include Google stock, and that's something he regrets. At the 2017 Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholders meeting, he told investors he made a mistake by not purchasing shares in the tech giant years ago when it was getting $10 per click from Geico -- which is one of Berkshire Hathway's subsidiaries.

Buffett has shied away from tech stocks in the past because he didn't understand their models. Still, he said he should have figured them out because he was effectively a client of the Google ad business.

What you can learn from this mistake is not to overlook investment opportunities right under your nose.

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Overestimating Select Manufacturing, Service and Retail Investments

In his 2015 shareholders letter, Warren Buffett highlighted the depth of Berkshire Hathaway companies in the fields of manufacturing, service and retail operations, noting that some businesses in the firm's portfolio have poor returns, and he considers those serious mistakes.

"In most of these cases, I was wrong in my evaluation of the economic dynamics of the company or the industry in which it operates, and we are now paying the price for my misjudgments," he wrote. "At other times, I stumbled in evaluating either the fidelity or the ability of incumbent managers or ones I later appointed."

What you can learn from Buffett here is not to jump into investments blindly. If you're not intimately familiar with a company, pass on it or seek advice from a trusted expert.

Despite his mistakes, the Oracle of Omaha is still one of the most successful investors of all time. Click through to find out the steps you can take to become the next Warren Buffett.

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Gabrielle Olya contributed to the reporting for this article.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 15 Investments Warren Buffett Regrets
In this article, we will discuss the 20 most valuable smartphone companies in the world. You can skip our industry overview and go directly to the 5 Most Valuable Smartphone Companies in the World.

Smartphones have revolutionized the way we live our lives. Thanks to these gadgets, we can access a wealth of information, entertainment, and communication at our fingertips. But beyond their utility and convenience, the smartphone sector has also become one of the world's most valuable and lucrative industries. From Apple and Samsung to Huawei and Xiaomi, the companies that manufacture these devices have risen to the top of the global market, competing fiercely for market share and driving innovation at a breakneck pace.

Before we dive deep into the details of individual performances fueling the fierce smartphone market competition, it helps to explore the industry at large. Smartphone companies overall shipped 1.21 billion units in 2022, according to market research firm IDC. This, the firm said, represents the lowest global total annual shipment in nine years. The decline is largely due to global economic uncertainties and inflation, all of which dampened consumer demand.

Despite the decline, the shipment total is miles ahead of the figure when smartphones were just making their way to global markets. For example, only 173 million devices were shipped in 2009. The market then witnessed wild growth in sales, peaking at 1.47 billion units in 2016. This growth was primarily fueled by an exponential increase in smartphone adoption worldwide.

The number of smartphone users has consistently increased annually, although the net increase is thinning. For example, there were over 500 million new smartphone users every year between 2017 and 2020, bankmycell data shows. However, this number has now reduced to less than 350 million between 2020 and 2023.

However, it is worth noting that worldwide smartphone sales are not declining because of challenges related to the technology. On the contrary, we have already seen that smartphone adoption is rising, meaning that unit sales will continue to grow. An IMARC Group analysis determined that the global smartphone market will reach 1.77 billion units by 2028, which shows a 3.6% CAGR between 2023 and 2028.

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Back to the smartphone companies. This article will take a closer look at the world's 20 most valuable smartphone companies. For years, Apple, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Ltd. have vied for the first place, leaving competitors in the dust. For example, the latest statistics from StatCounter show that Samsung claims 27.97% of the global smartphone market against 28.64% for Apple.

Most Valuable Smartphone Companies in the World

Our Methodology

We mentioned the biggest smartphone companies in terms of market share based on data from StatCounter.

Most Valuable Smartphone Companies in the World

20. Gionee

Market Share: 0.02%

Founded: 2002

First model: F103 (2016)

Gionee is a Chinese smartphone company with a big market presence in developing countries, including India, Thailand, Bangladesh, and many parts of Africa. The company has a long list of smartphone models for entry-level and mid-range market segments.

Even at their modest prices, Gionee phones are known for the sleek design and exciting camera features. The company holds 0.02% share of the global smartphone market.

19. Honor

Market Share: 0.08%

Founded: 2013

First model: Honor V40

Honor is a Chinese smartphone brand previously owned by Huawei. It makes mid-range and high-end smartphones.

Honor smartphones run the Android software. The company sells its products around the world, including the U.S. and India.

Honor phones boast top-notch features in areas such as camera and display. The company controls 0.08% share of the global smartphone market.

18. HTC

Market Share: 0.09%

Founded: 1997

First model: Z HTC Magic (2009)

HTC is a Taiwanese consumer electronics company whose products include smartphones. The company initially produced smartphones on contract for other clients, including Google and wireless operator T-Mobile.

HTC smartphones run the Android software. The company makes smartphones under various brands names, including HTC Desire, HTC One, and HTC Bolt.

HTC smartphones are known for their beautiful designs and powerful cameras. The company has devices for mid-range and high-end market segments. It controls 0.09% share of the global smartphone market.

17. ZTE

Market Share: 0.11%

Founded: 1985

First model: ZTE Blade V880 (2010)

ZTE Corporation is a Chinese telecom equipment and smartphone company. It produces smartphones under various brands, including Blade, Axon, Avid, and Nubia.

ZTE smartphones run the Android software and are sold all over the world. The company has a broad market approach, selling budget, mid-range, and high-end smartphones with powerful and exciting features.

ZTE holds 0.11% share of the global smartphone market.

16. Itel Mobile

Market Share: 0.24%

Founded: 2013

First model: it1520 (2017)

Itel is a Chinese consumer electronics company with a big presence in developing countries. Apart from smartphones, Itel also makes laptops, televisions, and home appliances.

Itel smartphones run the Android software. The company has released many smartphone models and it primarily targets the budget market segment. Itel holds 0.24% share of the global smartphone market.

15. Asus

Market Share: 0.26%

Founded: 1989

First model: ZenFone 4 (2014)

Asus is a Taiwanese consumer electronics company. Although the company is best known for its line of Asus laptops, it is also a major player in the smartphone market.

Asus smartphones run the Android software and they sell under the ZenFone brand name. The company has several ZenFone smartphone models on the market at various price points.

Asus holds 0.26% share of the global smartphone market.

14. Sony

Market Share: 0.35%

Founded: 1946

First model: Sony Ericsson P910 (2006)

Sony is a Japanese conglomerate whose consumer electronic products include televisions, cameras, laptops, and smartphones.

The company now makes smartphones under the Xperia brand. These devices run the Android software. Initially, Sony smartphones were branded Sony Ericsson and they ran the Symbian operating system.

The first Sony Xperia smartphone model, the Xperia X1, hit the market in 2008.

Sony controls 0.35% of the global smartphone market.

13. HMD Global (Nokia)

Market Share: 0.49%

Founded: 2016

First model: Nokia 6 (2017)

HMD Global is a Finland smartphone manufacturer. While you may not have heard this name, HMD Global is the company that makes Nokia phones.

The company has built many Nokia smartphone models for budget, mid-range, and high-end markets. Nokia phones run the popular Android software.

HDM Global holds 0.49% share of the global smartphone market through the Nokia brand.

12. Google

Market Share: 0.75%

Founded: 1998

First model: Pixel and Pixel XL (October 2016)

Google is a member of the Alphabet corporate family. The American technology giant is headquartered in California.

Google makes smartphones under the Pixel brand. Pixel phones run Android software, which is owned by Google but licensed to many smartphone companies.

Before coming out with the Pixel, Google tried its hands on the smartphone business in various ways. It acquired Motorola in 2012, one of the notable smartphone brands at the time. But the Motorola acquisition still didnt give Google the big break in wanted in the smartphone market.

Google updates its Pixel lineup every year. The company manufactures the devices in China. But it has considered diversifying Pixel phone manufacturing to other countries, including India.

Google controls 0.75% share of the global smartphone market.

11. Infinix Mobile

Market Share: 0.92%

Founded: 2013

First model: Infinix Zero (2014)

Infinix is a Chinese smartphone company with manufacturing facilities around the world, including France, India, Korea, and Egypt. Infinix smartphones run the popular Android software.

The company has released many phone models under brand names such as Infinix Hot, Infinix Note, Infinix Zero, and Infinix Smart. Infinix puts great emphasis on camera features in its products.

Infinix holds 0.92% of the global smartphone market share.

10. Tecno Mobile

Market Share: 0.97%

Founded: 2006

First model: T1 (2012)

Tecno Mobile is a Chinese smartphone company with a global footprint. It makes Android smartphones that sell under its namesake Tecno brand.

The Tecno smartphone brand caters to budget, mid-range, and high-end market segments. Even at the high-end price point, Tecno phones are affordably priced and come with powerful camera and display features.

Tecno holds 0.97% share of the global smartphone market.

9. OnePlus

Market Share: 1.09%

Founded: 2013

First model: OnePlus One (2014)

OnePlus is a Chinese consumer electronics company that makes smartphones, wearables, and other products. It belongs to the BBK Electronics corporate family alongside Vivo and Oppo.

The company makes smartphones under the OnePlus and OnePlus Nord brands. OnePlus smartphones run Android software.

8. Motorola Mobility

Market Share: 2.44%

Founded: 2011

First model: Moto X (2015  under Lenovo ownership)

Motorola Mobility is a consumer electronics company headquartered in Chicago, U.S. The company is owned by Chinese multinational Lenovo, which acquired the business in 2014 from Google.

7. Realme

Market Share: 3.28%

Founded: 2018

First model: Realme 1 (May 2018)

Realme is a Chinese smartphone company. It makes smartphones under the Realme brand and has several product models.

6. Vivo

Market Share: 4.45%

Founded: 2009

First model: Vivo V1 (2015)

Vivo is a Chinese multinational consumer electronics company. It makes smartphones, wearables, and other products. Vivo is part of the BBK Electronics corporate family, which also includes OnePlus and Oppo.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Most Valuable Smartphone Companies in the World.

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Disclosure: None. 20 Most Valuable Smartphone Companies in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
In this piece, we will take a look at the 30 most unstable countries in the world. For more countries, head on over to 5 Most Unstable Countries in the World.

Political stability is the precursor to economic stability. This is due to the fact that investors seek a stable environment for their money, and a country where there is a consistent change of government does not make policies that last for a suitable time period to generate investment returns. Additionally, political upheaval also leads to country shutdowns or protests which prevent businesses from carrying out their daily operations. Therefore, some of the most developed countries in the world have seen decades of stability while those countries that are struggling economically are also facing political crises and uncertainty.

Given the crucial link between the two, there are numerous studies and research papers that further study this topic. On this front, a working paper from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) takes a detailed look at how stability is essential for economic development. It uses a generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator to find out the link between degrees of political instability and gross domestic product (GDP) growth. The IMF's research defines political stability as the number of cabinet changes in a year. For those out of the loop, a cabinet here is a collection of ministers that is headed by a prime minister in most countries. The IMF's research finds out that every time there is a cabinet change, GDP growth drops by a painful 2.39 percentage points.

Another research paper covering analyzing political and economic instability comes from Harvard University. It uses a single equation method to evaluate the link between instability, which is measured as a combination of economic and political variables to calculate government change and economic growth measured through a sum of the government change and other variables of growth. The Harvard research also mirrors the conclusions of the IMF, as it points out that political instability not only affects GDP growth but also per capita income.

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Narrowing down our focus on how this instability affects the business environment and what the situation is these days, insurance broker Marsh released a new report in March 2023. It outlines that a country's inward focus on economic stability comes at the expense of free trade and ends up affecting the global trade environment. It adds that the commodity market shock resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine has led to soaring inflation in developing countries. However, according to Marsh, there are four key areas that can support growth despite the political instability. These, according to the research firm, are a large potential for infrastructure development that had stopped due to lockdowns ushered in by the coronavirus pandemic, the energy and food insecurity due to the Russian invasion creates an opportunity to invest in supply chain stability, the guidelines in the Paris Agreement to invest in global net zero emissions technologies, and growth in government spending to combat terrorism and other threats.

A key factor that influences the business environment, particularly in developing countries, is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). FDI is an investment into businesses or other assets such as real estate in a country where the investments are owned by a foreign entity. A report from Investment Monitor studies the effect of political instability on FDI. It uses the example of Venezuela to show that despite the massive underlying potential, an unstable political environment renders the advantage offered by these resources useless. Investment Monitor points out that Venezuela ranks among the lowest countries in the world when its corruption perception, global competitiveness, and rule of law are measured. These factors have led to companies such as General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) exiting the country as it alleged that the Venezuelan government had seized its manufacturing facility. The report also cites the example of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to show how regulations introduced by the government have led to underinvestment in its mining resources. Finally, the research firm compares these countries with some of the most stable countries in the world such as Germany and Finland to show that the pair attracted $24 billion in investment through 432 deals in 2019. This data comes from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, which also shows that during the same period, DRC attracted zero deals. Pretty conclusive, we'd say.

With these details in mind, let's take a look at some of the most unstable countries in the world.

30 Most Unstable Countries in the World

Copyright: hecke / 123RF Stock Photo

Our Methodology

To compile our list, we used the Fragile States Index 2022  Annual Report from Fund For Peace. This index analyzes factors such as government strength, government legitimacy, external intervention, and brain drain among several other factors to calculate a fragility score.

Most Unstable Countries in the World

30. Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Fragility Score: 89.7

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a Southeast Asian country. It has faced consistent political instability for decades resulting from terrorism, weak governance, and military coups. To build on this, Pakistan's in a tailspin these days, due to a government change in 2022 and a large current account deficit exacerbated by a trust deficit between the IMF and the current government.

29. Burkina Faso

Fragility Score: 90.5

Burkina Faso is a landlocked African country with a small $50.8 billion economy. The country has gone through several coups and riots over the past decades.

28. Republic of Lebanon

Fragility Score: 91.3

The Republic of Lebanon is an Asian country whose currency is a global example of what to avoid. The Lebanese Pound was devalued by 90% in February 2023, but black market rates are even lower.

27. Guinea-Bissau

Fragility Score: 91.3

Guinea-Bissau is a West African coastal country. It has seen several coups and political assassinations in its history.

26. Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela

Fragility Score: 91.6

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is a South American country that is under American sanctions.

25. Republic of Uganda

Fragility Score: 92.1

The Republic of Uganda is an African country that gained independence from the U.K. in 1962. Uganda's current President has been ruling since 1986 when he took over in a coup.

24. Democratic Republic of Congo

Fragility Score: 92.2

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a Central African country and has seen several coups since 1960 with some featuring direct U.S. involvement.

23. Republic of Iraq

Fragility Score: 93.8

The Republic of Iraq is a Western Asian country that has been suffering from violence for decades. It was ruled by a brutal military dictator for decades but is yet to see consistent peace despite a new government.

22. State of Libya

Fragility Score: 94.3

The State of Libya is a North African country and another one that was ruled by a dictator for decades. Yet, despite the dictator being killed in 2011, Libya has not seen any political stability due to friction between factions.

21. Republic of Mozambique

Fragility Score: 94.3

The Republic of Mozambique is a Southeastern African country that has been facing an Islamic insurgency since 2017.

20. Republic of the Niger

Fragility Score: 95.2

The Republic of the Niger is a West African landlocked country that has been ruled by four military regimes since 1974.

19. Republic of Burundi

Fragility Score: 95.4

The Republic of Burundi is another African country. It has suffered from devastating genocides and civil wars in its history.

18. State of Eritrea

Fragility Score: 95.9

The State of Eritrea is a coastal country that touches the Red Sea. It has a small $6.8 billion GDP and gained independence from Ethiopia in 1991 after fighting a war of independence for three decades. But Eritrea soon fought another war with Ethiopia between 1998 and 2000.

17. Republic of Cameroon

Fragility Score: 96.0

The Republic of Cameroon is a West African country that gained independence from the U.K. in 1961. It has a $101 billion GDP. Cameroon has seen nationwide protests, failed military coups, and its current ruler has been at the helm of affairs since 1982.

16. Federal Republic of Nigeria

Fragility Score: 97.2

The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a coastal West African country. It has a $1.27 trillion GDP and vast petroleum resources which have enabled it to become one of Africa's largest economies. However, Nigeria has seen five military coups since 1960 and four failed attempts.

15. Republic of Zimbabwe

Fragility Score: 97.8

The Republic of Zimbabwe is a landlocked African country. It has seen significant economic uncertainty throughout its history, fueled by massive currency devaluation. Civil conflict in Zimbabwe has led to a massive loss of life, with some estimates sitting in hundreds of thousands.

14. Republic of Mali

Fragility Score: 98.6

The Republic of Mali is one of the largest countries in Africa. It has also seen coups and civil wars in its history.

13. Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Fragility Score: 99.3

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is a landlocked Eastern African country with a $348 billion economy. It has seen thousands of people die in political repression.

12. Republic of Guinea

Fragility Score: 99.6

The Republic of Guinea is a West African coastal country that gained independence from the French in 1958.

11. Republic of Haiti

Fragility Score: 99.7

The Republic of Haiti is one of the largest countries in the Caribbean. Its political conflicts have been exacerbated by devastating natural disasters as well.

10. Republic of the Union of Myanmar

Fragility Score: 100

The Republic of the Union of Myanmar is a Southeast Asian country that is currently ruled by a military junta that took over in 2021.

9. Republic of Chad

Fragility Score: 105.7

The Republic of Chad is a landlocked African country that collapsed in 1979 and was united by a resulting dictatorship helped by France.

8. Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan

Fragility Score: 105.9

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is one of the most impoverished regions in the world which has seen consistent turmoil over the past couple of decades.

7. Republic of the Sudan

Fragility Score: 107.1

The Republic of the Sudan is an African country that is currently facing a devastating conflict between two groups.

6. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

Fragility Score: 107.3

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a Central African country that has seen consistent conflicts, wars, and coups for the better half of the past century.

Click to continue reading and see 5 Most Unstable Countries in the World.

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Disclosure: None. 30 Most Unstable Countries in the World is originally published on Insider Monkey.
Interview: Decoupling from China neither viable nor desirable for Europe, expert says

Xinhua) 08:08, May 08, 2023

A China-Europe freight train is pictured at Xi'an International Port in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, March 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

Both Europe and China need each other in economic and trade as well as international affairs, a Croatian political analyst said.

ZAGREB, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Decoupling from China is neither viable nor desirable for Europe, which is a close economic and trade partner of China, said Kresimir Macan, a Croatian political analyst, in an interview with Xinhua.

Macan echoed the statement of European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France on April 18, when she declared that "decoupling is clearly not viable, desirable or even practical for Europe."

During her speech, the EC president said China's international and economic status, as well as Europe's own interests, make it all the more important for Europe to properly manage its relations with China. Europe must "carve out our own distinct European approach that also leaves space for us to cooperate with other partners," she said.

As Europe and China are close economic and trade partners, it is in the interests of Europe to take such a stand, Macan said, adding that both Europe and China need each other in economic and trade as well as international affairs.

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. (Xinhua/Jin Haoyuan)

China was the largest source of EU imports and the third-largest buyer of EU goods in 2022, with total bilateral imports and exports reaching 856.3 billion euros (959.96 billion U.S. dollars), according to Eurostat, highlighting China's economic significance to Europe. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which broke out in February last year, and the COVID-19 pandemic have made China a more crucial trade partner to the EU.

Macan hailed China's economic growth rate of 4.5 percent in the first quarter of this year, noting that the World Bank has raised China's economic growth rate to 5.1 percent in 2023, significantly higher than the bank's January forecast of 4.3 percent, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has set China's GDP growth rate at 5.2 percent this year, a substantial increase from last year's 3 percent growth rate.

Photo taken on July 26, 2022 shows the booth of cosmetics giant L'Oreal in the French pavilion at the second China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, south China's Hainan Province. (Xinhua/Guo Cheng)

In comparison, the IMF expects the global economic growth rate to drop from 3.4 percent in 2022 to 2.8 percent this year, and the U.S. economic growth rate is expected to slow down from 2.1 percent in 2022 to 1.6 percent this year and the EU down from 3.5 percent in 2022 to 0.8 percent this year.

"The Chinese economy will continue to grow, and I think that the future of the Chinese economy is bright," Macan said, adding that China will remain as a locomotive of the world economy.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
By News Centre

Washington once proposed that Turkiye send to Ukraine the S-400 missile defense system it bought from Russia but which the US objected to, but Ankara refused this proposal, Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said.

As it claimed the S-400 system had to exclude Turkiye from the F-35 fighter jet program, the US proposed to Turkiye that it give control of the system to the US or another country, including Ukraine, as it tries to fight off Russian forces, the foreign minister pointed.

"The US asked us to send the S-400s to Ukraine, and we said no," he said, explaining that these proposals were unacceptable as they sought to infringe Turkish sovereignty.

Turkish officials have repeatedly said that the nation bought the S-400s as a matter of national security and no other country has the right to interfere with this.

In 2017, when its protracted efforts to buy an air defense system from the US proved futile, Turkiye signed a contract with Russia to acquire the state-of-art S-400 system.

US officials expressed opposition to their deployment, claiming the S-400 would be incompatible with NATO systems.

Turkiye, however, stressed that the S-400s would not be integrated into NATO systems and pose no threat to the alliance or its armaments. Ankara has repeatedly proposed setting up a commission to clarify the issue.

Asked about returning to the F-35 program, Cavusoglu said Ankara does not want to return to the program but rather wants back from Washington the money it paid for fighter jets before it was out of the program, while its jets were never delivered.

Ankara is now "producing our own national combat aircraft," he explained, adding that Turkiye also wants to improve ties with the US and that the necessary mechanisms have been established towards this end.

But Turkiye also wants to buy F-16 jets and modernization kits from the US, he added, mentioning how the request is not moving as fast through Washington as it should.

Ankara requested F-16s and modernization kits from the US in October 2021. The $6 billion deal would include 40 jets and modernization kits for 79 warplanes that the Turkish Air Force already has in its inventory.
jetcityimage / iStock.com

If youre a fan of high-quality products but your budget is less than accommodating, you might want to check out Costco. Costco is known for giving shoppers extra value for their dollar on thousands of products, including items that you not only need but also those on your wish list.

Costcos Best Deals? Employee Reveals 10 Standout Buys for Your Money

Find Out: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

To give an idea of what you might be missing out on, here are six high-quality Costco buys always worth the investment.

Kirkland Signature Ladies Shearling Boot

Believe it or not, Costco stocks quite a few different styles of womens designer-brand shoes and boots. However, consumer analyst Julie Ramhold with DealNews thinks these non-designer boots are worth your money.

These are basically UGG knockoffs that are a fraction of the cost  $20 compared to $150 or more depending on which style you opt for at UGG, she said. They only come in a couple of colors, but there may be more or less available at certain times of the year, so its always good to keep an eye out if you want some cozy boots for less.

Kirkland Signature Plush Blanket

Having a few plush blankets on hand is never a bad thing  especially if theyre high-quality, you can get them at a great price and theyre big enough for an extra layer of cover on your bed.

Whenever I see plush blankets at Costco I always have to feel them and see if theyre as cozy as they seem, and they never disappoint, Ramhold said. Even better is that these come in Queen and King sizes and are priced from around $32, so you can easily make your bed cozy without breaking the bank.

Check Out: 8 Companies Behind Costcos Kirkland Brand Products

Kirkland Signature Organic Maple Syrup

If you try to avoid sugar but love syrup with your occasional Saturday morning pancakes, maple syrup is a healthier alternative. Not only does it have less glycemic impact, but it also contains over 20 antioxidants, which are fantastic for warding off inflammation.

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This is legitimately the best price Ive seen for maple syrup locally, and its organic, which makes it even better, Ramhold said. Its $14.99 or so for 33.8 ounces, and thats an absolute steal compared to shopping standard grocery stores or even big box stores like Walmart.

Meats

Ramhold noted that Costco sells a wide variety of meat and seafood  most of which is high-quality and offers an absolutely unbeatable value.

Whether you want pre-made burger patties, ground beef, Italian sausage, chicken thighs or a myriad of other types and cuts, [Costcos] likely going to have you covered, Ramhold shared. You can even order high-end products like Wagyu beef online, and find an array of pork and lamb in select stores as well. The unit prices are always way better than what a standard grocery store sells and honestly, the quality is superior in my opinion; everything Ive tried from Costco has been great, whereas the meats Ive found at grocery stores can be hit or miss.

HexClad Cookware

This cookware is a hybrid of stainless steel and cast iron  plus, its nonstick. Its oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, free of nontoxic coatings and has a lifetime warranty. As a bonus, its Gordan Ramsay-approved. The famous chef dubbed HexClad the Rolls Royce of pans.

While the pans are a high-quality item worth the investment, you can get the most bang for your buck when Costco runs a special event. For example, in May, the warehouse giant has a HexClad seven-piece cookware set for $349.99, which includes an 8-inch, 10-inch and 12-inch HexClad Saute Pan with separate lids and a 12-inch HexClad Stir Fry Wok. Amazon sells a six-piece set minus the 12-inch HexClad Stir Fry Wok for $50 more or $399.99.

Blackstone by Zinus Upholstered Bed

Upholstered bed frames can easily cost $1,000 or more at Costco. But that doesnt mean you have to spend that much to get a high-quality product. The Blackstone by Zinus Upholstered Bed is a customer favorite with over 3,000 five-star ratings. It retails for just $249.99 for the full, $259.99 for the queen and $319.99 for the king. It comes in either blue or gray with an upholstered platform bed and headboard. The best part is that you dont need a box spring. Instead, you can place your mattress directly on the platforms wooden slats, which have non-slip tape on them to keep your mattress from moving.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 High-Quality Costco Buys Always Worth the Investment
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There are those who love to travel to international destinations, and those who prefer to live abroad, as "expats," whether in retirement or just for a stretch of time to experience life outside the hustle of American life and responsibilities.

Learn: 10 Tips for Saving Money on Airfare This Spring

Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

Living abroad might sound like an expensive proposition, but choosing wisely can allow you to find a country where the cost of living is low, and the flights home to the U.S. don't break the bank. Here are eight affordable places to live abroad where the flights home are reasonable too.

Starcevic / iStock.com

Colombia

According to Becca Siegel, travel writer at Halfhalftravel.com, a great place for Americans to live abroad and still enjoy relatively affordable flights to the U.S. is Colombia, specifically Medellin and Bogota. "Both of us have spent time working remotely from Colombia in the past few years," Siegel said. "[A]nd flights to and from the US never broke the bank like flights to Argentina, Brazil and Chile."

See: Why Nobody Is Buying Vacation Homes Anymore

Check Out: 5 Best US Locations To Travel To on a $2,000 Budget

Shutterstock.com

Canada

Generally, Americans don't choose Canada for the climate, but the exchange rate is good for a strong U.S. dollar and fans of winter activities will find Canada has lots to offer, according to Joel Speyers, co-founder of Prep4travel.

"Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver all offer cheap flights ranging from $200-$500 depending on where you are flying back into the US," Speyers said. "[For] example, Toronto to Detroit ranges between $300-$400 on United. Vancouver to Seattle ranges from $250-$350."

Find Out: 5 Affordable Up-and-Coming US Locations To Buy Vacation Property in 2023

YinYang / Shutterstock.com

The Riviera Maya, Mexico

According to Jim Fricker II, a long-time resident of Mexico and the co-founder of Spanish and Go, the Riviera Maya in Mexico is a fantastic place for U.S. citizens to call home because it's close to the U.S., making travel between the two countries easy and affordable. "You're also not limited to big city life in Cancun, as other desirable areas such as Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum are nearby," Fricker said.

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Flights through Cancun International Airport can run as little as $97 and on the high end, not more than a couple of hundred dollars. "You'll find that your dollar stretches further here, which is always a bonus when living abroad," he said. "If you're not too picky about living in luxury, you can easily find an apartment for less than $1,000/mo and eating out can range from $10-20."

Shutterstock.com

Germany

It's hard to imagine that anywhere in Europe is truly affordable, but according to Ravi Parikh, travel expert and CEO of RoverPass, the cost of living in Germany is lower than in the U.S. "More than 50% [of people] speak English, but learning German is an advantage," Parikh said. "Cheap flights are available from Germany to the U.S. on Swiss, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, etc."

majaiva / iStock.com

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Another warm-weather location that is affordable to live and to fly to the U.S. from is Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

"Punta Cana has a lot going for it, like amazing beaches, friendly locals, and a great lifestyle that doesn't cost a fortune," said Geanny Tavarez, CEO of Punta Cana Adventures. "One of the best things about Punta Cana is how affordable it is. You can find a decent apartment for as low as $500 USD a month, and if you want something fancier, there are plenty of options."

It also has decent healthcare and a lot of direct flights. You can find flights with big airlines like American, Delta, JetBlue, and United, with round-trip tickets ranging between $450 and $600.

Tips: 10 All-Inclusive Resort Hacks That Can Help You Save Big

microgen / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Gigi Chow, who runs the travel website Wet Nose Escapades, has been living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for six months and loves it. Since moving, she's already flown back and forth to the U.S. twice. "If you book at least a few weeks in advance, you can get direct flights to Miami and NYC for $350-500," she said.

With access to world-famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, warm weather, great food and a strong expat community, she highly recommends it. "From food to drinks to vet bills to housing, everything is shockingly affordable and you can stretch your US dollar, way more than in Europe, where I used to live," she said. She also mentioned that a good meal with drinks for two people will typically be under $30 easily in the South Zone.

Costa Rica

Americans have been moving to and retiring in Costa Rica for years, according to Chris Atkins, founder and owner of Central America Fishing.

Thanks to the booming tourism industry, Costa Rica receives nonstop flights from cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Baltimore and Miami. "These flights can take anywhere from three to five hours and range in price from $400 to $800 in non-peak times, so you can literally fly back and forth every month without issue," Atkins said.

bloodua / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Malaysia

Do you dream of moving abroad but still want to occasionally visit the U.S.? Jon Stephens, director of operations with Snowshoe Vacation Rentals, recommends living in Malaysia.

"This small country boasts a low enough cost of living to attract ex-patriots from all walks of life," Stephens said. "It is also known for having some of the least expensive airfare prices in the world. Although the flight is eighteen hours long, it's worth it for the opportunity to experience life on the opposite side of the globe."

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 8 Affordable Places To Live Abroad With Cheap Flights to the US
FACT.MR

Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices Market Analysis By Product Type (Actigraphy Devices, Polysomnography Devices), By Technology (Wireless, USB, GPS), By Distribution Channel (Retail Stores, Online Retail Stores, Pharmacies, Hospitals, Diagnostic Laboratories, Homecare Settings) & Region.

Rockville, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Actigraphy sensors and PSG devices are expected to see an increase in demand on a global scale between 2023 and 2033, with a CAGR of 5.2%. The global actigraphy sensors & PSG devices market is estimated to be worth US$ 1.2 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to US$ 2 billion by 2033-end.



Medical equipment like actigraphy sensors and PSG units are generally used to diagnose sleep disorders like sleep apnea and idiopathic hypersomnia. The majority of individuals in industrialized countries are ageing and suffering from co-occurring ailments, which is increasing the demand for these gadgets and the need for insomnia therapies.

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Market Drivers:

The rising prevalence of sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy, is a major driver for actigraphy sensors and PSG devices. These devices are essential for the diagnosis and monitoring of sleep-related conditions, driving the demand for the market.

There is an increasing awareness among individuals about the importance of healthy sleep and the potential risks associated with sleep disorders. This has led to a higher number of people seeking diagnosis and treatment for sleep-related issues, thereby driving the demand for actigraphy sensors and PSG devices.

Advances in technology have significantly improved the capabilities of actigraphy sensors and PSG devices. These advancements have led to the development of more accurate and user-friendly devices, including wearable sensors and wireless connectivity features.

Ongoing research and development activities in the field of sleep medicine and neuroscience have led to the introduction of innovative actigraphy sensors and PSG devices. Researchers and manufacturers are constantly working on improving the accuracy, comfort, and ease of use of these devices, which has positively influenced market growth.

There is a shift towards home sleep monitoring as it provides convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to in-lab sleep studies. Actigraphy sensors and portable PSG devices enable individuals to monitor their sleep patterns and identify potential sleep disorders in the comfort of their own homes.

Actigraphy sensors and PSG devices are widely used in research studies and clinical trials focused on sleep disorders and related conditions. The need for accurate and reliable data collection during such studies has led to the increased adoption of these devices, thereby driving the market.

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Market Restraints:

Actigraphy sensors and PSG devices can be expensive, especially the advanced and high-quality models. The high cost of these devices can act as a restraint, limiting their adoption and accessibility, particularly in regions with limited healthcare budgets or lack of insurance coverage.

Although reimbursement policies for sleep studies and related procedures have improved, there may still be limitations in coverage for actigraphy sensors and PSG devices. In some cases, reimbursement may not fully cover the cost of these devices, making them less affordable for patients and healthcare facilities.

Actigraphy sensors and PSG devices may have certain technical limitations that can affect their performance and accuracy. Factors such as sensor positioning, data interpretation, and calibration can impact the reliability of the results obtained from these devices. Technical challenges can hinder the widespread adoption of these devices.



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Key Trends:

There is a growing trend towards home sleep monitoring using actigraphy sensors and portable PSG devices. These devices enable individuals to monitor their sleep patterns in the comfort of their own homes, providing convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional in-lab sleep studies.

AI and ML technologies are being integrated into actigraphy sensors and PSG devices to enhance their capabilities. These technologies enable advanced data analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive modeling, leading to improved diagnosis and personalized treatment plans for sleep disorders.

There is a significant trend toward the development of wearable actigraphy sensors that are more comfortable, user-friendly, and unobtrusive. These wearable devices can be worn on the wrist, like a wristwatch, or integrated into clothing or bedding.



Competitive Landscape:

The market is dominated by a few prominent companies that have a strong presence and extensive product portfolios. These companies include Koninklijke Philips N.V., ResMed Inc., Natus Medical Incorporated, Compumedics Limited, and SOMNOmedics GmbH. Moreover, companies in the market are investing in research and development activities to introduce technologically advanced products. They focus on improving the accuracy, reliability, and user-friendliness of actigraphy sensors and PSG devices.

Market players often engage in strategic collaborations, partnerships, and acquisitions to enhance their product offerings and expand their market reach. Collaborations with sleep clinics, research institutions, and healthcare providers enable companies to gather real-world data and insights, leading to product improvements and innovations.

Key Companies Profiled

Cidelec

Garmin Ltd.

Aetna Inc.

ResMed Inc.

Compumedics, Ltd.

Activinsights Ltd.

Fitbit, Inc.

SOMNOmedics GmbH

Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices Industry Research Segments

By Product Type: Actigraphy Devices Wrist and Handband Actigraphy Devices Wearable Actigraphy Devices Polysomnography Devices Fixed Polysomnography Devices Portable Polysomnography Devices

By Technology: Wireless USB GPS Others (Bluetooth LE, USB-to-lrDA)

By Distribution Channel: Retail Stores Online Retail Stores Pharmacies Hospitals Diagnostic Laboratories Homecare Settings

By Region: North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa





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Key Questions Covered in the Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices Market Report

What will be the estimated size of the Market in 2023?

At what rate will the global Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices sales grow until 2033?

Which are the factors hampering the Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices demand?

Which region will spearhead the growth in the global industry by 2033?

Which are the factors driving sales in the Actigraphy Sensors & PSG Devices Market during the forecast period?



Check out more related studies published by Fact.MR Research:

Actigraphy Sensors Market Size: The global actigraphy sensors market size is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period. Increasing prevalence of sleeping disorders is observed in working population with unusual timings. Innovations and adaptation of new technology.

Intraoperative Sensor Market Share: The Intraoperative sensor market is overflowing in presence of a few major makers. The main manufacturers are profoundly putting their investment into research endeavors to present progressed innovative gadgets in the field of life science zone.

Medical Sensors Market Demand: Global medical sensors market demand is expected to increase at a high-value CAGR of 11% from 2023 to 2033. The global medical sensors market is valued at US$ 2.32 billion in 2023 and is thus projected to reach US$ 6.59 billion by 2033-end.

Glucose Biosensors Market Revenue: The global glucose biosensors market revenue stands at US$ 14.09 billion in 2023 and is expected to increase at a CAGR of 12.6% from 2023 to 2033 with a valuation of US$ 46.16 billion by the end of the forecast period.

Nerve Monitoring Devices Market Forecast: Nerve monitoring devices market forecast during the 2022-2032 period of assessment, demand is expected to rise at a 5.0% value CAGR, likely to reach US$ 2.2 Billion by the end of the said forecast period.

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Delvens

The global market for aerostructures is expected to reach $88.4 billion by 2030 from $51.2 billion in 2022, registering impressive expansion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7%.

Wichita, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the new market research report Global Aerostructures Market by Material (Composites, Alloys & Superalloys and Metals), Component, End User (OEM, Aftermarket), Platform (Fixed Wing, Rotary Wing, UAVs, Advanced Air Mobility), Region, Supply & Demand Side Analysis, and Segment Forecasts, 2023-2030, published by Delvens, the Global Aerostructures Market is expected to reach $88.4 billion by 2030 from $51.2 billion in 2022, registering impressive expansion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7%. Increased demand for UAVs, an increase in the number of aircraft, and the launch of cutting-edge aircraft are the primary factors driving this market's growth. Some of the major players are Spirit AeroSystems, Airbus, Saab AB, Triumph Group Inc, and Leonardo S.P.A among others.

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The aerospace industry's strategy development was halted as a result of the pandemic, which also caused the biggest crisis in modern aviation history. The aerostructure market was also significantly impacted, and the companies were then prepared to adapt to a completely altered market environment. Delvens estimates that it will be at least 2025 before manufacturers reach their pre-pandemic levels because so many businesses were negatively impacted by the decrease.

Aerostructures Market Overview

To react to the fundamentally altered position in the long run, the corporation made quantifiable changes in the aerostructure industry. It has been determined that, following many years of expansion in the aviation sector, the year 2020 represented a turning point for the businesses, and within a very short time, demand for new aircraft fell dramatically across the board. For example, the A320 family deliveries from Airbus to RUAG Aerostructure decreased by more than 30%, and engine producer GE Aviation did not purchase any gearbox housing from RUAG Aerostructure.

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The businesses do not anticipate a speedy market recovery, at least not until 2025. The businesses began outlining new strategies in the early quarters of 2021 to deal with the problems and obstacles facing future growth.

Aerostructures Market Report Scope

Report Feature Descriptions Growth Rate CAGR of 8.7% during the forecasting period, 2023-2030 Historical Data 2019-2021 Forecast Years 2023-2030 Base Year 2022 Units Considered Revenue in USD billion and CAGR from 2023 to 2030 Report Segmentation Component, Enterprise, End-User, Industry, and Region. Report Attribute Market Revenue Sizing (Global, Regional and Country Level) Company Share Analysis, Market Dynamics, Company Profiling Regional Level Scope North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa Country Level Scope U.S., Japan, Germany, U.K., China, India, Brazil, UAE, South Africa (50+ Countries Across the Globe) Companies Profiled Spirit Aerosystems, Inc., Airbus Se, Saab Ab, Triumph Group, Leonardo S.P.A, GKN Aerospace, Safran SA., Arconic, Elbit Systems Ltd., FACC AG Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., Collins Aerospace, The Boeing Company, Sonaca Group, ST Engineering, Ruag Group, Latecoere, IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), The Nordam Group LLC, Aernnova Aerospace S.A, Magellan Aerospace Corporation, Cyient, Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), Korea Aerospace Industries, Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc., Sabca NV, Mhi Canada Aerospace, Inc., and Daher among others. Available Customization In addition to the market data for Aerostructures Market, Delvens offers client-centric reports customized according to the companys specific demand and requirement.

Aerostructures Market Segmentation Analysis

With a share of 40.2% in 2022, the fuselage sector is anticipated to have the highest CAGR during the projection period. The market for fuselages is being driven by rising demand for new aircraft, novel designs, and the usage of composite materials. The fuselage, which regulates and stabilises the surface about lifting surfaces, ensures the aircraft's agility and stability. The fuselage of an aeroplane is its main part. It can hold passengers, goods, or personnel. In single-engine aircraft, the engine is frequently mounted on a pylon that is attached to the fuselage, the floating hull of the plane.

Based on the type of material used, the aerostructure market is divided into composites, metals, alloys, and superalloys. For the Aerostructures market throughout the anticipated period, the composites sector is anticipated to have the highest CAGR. All spacecraft and aircraft, including combat jets, the space shuttle, and commercial airliners, use composite materials for structural and component applications due to their large weight reduction contribution. Next-generation composite materials with low weight and good temperature resistance will make it easier to design high-performance, cheap aeroplanes.

Based on the end user, the aerostructure market is divided into OEM and aftermarket segments. The OEM market is anticipated to develop at the highest CAGR for the aerostructures industry throughout the forecast period. The need for better connectivity and communication in the aviation industry as well as advancements in technology are fueling the growth of this market.

Over the anticipated period, the aerostructures market is anticipated to experience the greatest CAGR growth in the UAV category. The growing number of military uses for UAVs has led to an increase in the market for aerostructures. UAV antennas are smaller and lighter than those of manned aircraft because UAVs have less demanding flight profiles and environmental standard requirements.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the global Aerostructures market are Spirit Aerosystems, Inc., Airbus Se, Saab Ab, Triumph Group, Leonardo S.P.A, GKN Aerospace, Safran SA., Arconic, Elbit Systems Ltd., FACC AGKawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., Collins Aerospace, The Boeing Company, Sonaca Group, ST Engineering, Ruag Group, Latecoere, IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), The Nordam Group LLC, Aernnova Aerospace S.A, Magellan Aerospace Corporation, Cyient, Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), Korea Aerospace Industries, Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc., Sabca NV, Mhi Canada Aerospace, Inc., and Daher among others.

Recent Developments

Astraius Ltd. and Spirit AeroSystems Inc. established a partnership to improve Prestwick Spaceport's ability to launch satellites in the future. With the first orbital launch from Scottish soil anticipated this year, there is a lot of potential and opportunity in the space business in Scotland. The National Strategy for Economic Transformation has prioritised the industry because of this.

On January 1st, 2022, Airbus Atlantic, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Airbus and a major player in the aerostructures industry, was formally founded. The new business combines the advantages, capabilities, and central activities of Airbus's Nantes and Montoir-de-Bretagne sites as well as the global STELIA Aerospace locations.

Triumph Group, Inc. ("TRIUMPH") announced that the sale of its Stuart, Florida-based Aerostructures business to Daher Aerospace Inc. ("Daher Aerospace"), a Compagnie Daher ("Daher") subsidiary, had been completed.

To satisfy future needs for complicated, advanced composite manufacture and assembly for the business jet industry, GKN Aerospace has begun an 80,000-square-foot expansion of its Chihuahua, Mexico factory. By the end of 2023, the expansion is anticipated to be finished, adding 100 additional employees.

Aerostructures Market Regional Insights

Post-Pandemic Due to the increased demand for new aircraft, North America is driving the market recovery and is anticipated to dominate the aerostructure market during the forecast period. For instance, United Airlines recently placed an order for 200 new 737 MAX aircraft, positioning its fleet for expansion as the demand for air travel is anticipated to increase.

The North American aircraft industry will close the revenue gap to pre-pandemic levels as its expansion accelerates. Additionally, in 2021-22, North America passed China in terms of the percentage of domestic travellers travelling globally.

Due to the significant need for new aeroplanes, North America now dominates the aerostructures market. The US and Canada are included in the North American region research.

The increasing demand for aeroplanes for commercial use and their growing utility in the defence sector to conduct transport and surveillance operations are further factors influencing the growth of the North American aerostructures industry.

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Market outlook

The market is driven by global aircraft production, and flight volume, which is primarily driven by growing demand for both passenger and freight air traffic. For instance;

According to Airbus, the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North American areas will have a disproportionately large demand for new aircraft deliveries over the next 20 years.

Between 2022 and 2041, Airbus expects to deliver 39,490 new aircraft worldwide, including both commercial and freighter models.

The Asia-Pacific region (17,580 deliveries), Europe (8,140 deliveries), and North America (6,990 deliveries) dominate the new delivery market.

Between 2022 and 2041, Latin America may see up to 2,550 deliveries and 300 conversions.

Bombardier delivered 120 business jets in 2021, generating $7.6 billion in sales.

Bombardier was the largest contributor to Canadian aerospace manufacturing in 2021, with a market share of more than 25% (including makers of parts).

Delvens Industry Expert's Standpoint

The structures market is made up of more than one hundred companies that populate three somewhat separate tiers of production, in contrast to other categories like engines, avionics, or landing gear that are dominated by a small number of strong competitors. Many of these businesses have a haphazard commitment to the commercial aircraft industry and are small, private businesses or parts of bigger, diverse businesses. Both OEMs and suppliers of structures stand to gain from lessening this group's fragmentation, but as the graph below demonstrates, their interests are not always in line.

OEM-shared Incentives for Consolidation Both parties aim to make their supply networks more straightforward and logical. At a period (perhaps four or five years from now) when aircraft manufacturers will struggle to find growth opportunities, eliminating unnecessary G&A and CAPEX from the industry will increase overall profitability. This objective should be furthered via vertical integration by lowering some transaction costs. The "stuffing" of structural components further down the supply chain to a more cost-efficient location can help reduce costs. Consolidation also makes it possible to pool financial resources, increasing a supplier's capacity to spend on R&D or stock up on supplies before a product launch. OEM-neutral Drivers for Consolidation the OEMs are probably uninterested in other consolidation-related factors that suppliers favour.

Threats to OEMs Some consolidation drivers oppose the interests of OEMs and suppliers. A prime illustration is bargaining leverage, which for OEMs is the drawback of supplier scale. Increasing supplier size aids OEMs in lowering overhead and duplication throughout the supply chain, but it also lessens competition and increases the likelihood that suppliers will try to enhance margins through price hikes. At the level of the materials (such as aluminium and titanium), there has already been a decrease in price competitiveness, which harms businesses upstream. In the medium term, structures companies will probably turn to this strategy to boost their margins. More than is currently achievable, a smaller number of diversified, well-capitalized suppliers will be able to push back on OEM demands.



Strategy Issues to Consider

The Global Race Will Get Tougher

Narrowbody Prospects Are Maintaining High Multiples

Post-Peak Planning

Methodology

To evaluate the market from all angles, we conducted interviews with experts across the globe covering Aerospace & Defense regions

Interviewee specifications

Interviewees considered for data extraction and validation comprised a balanced mix of aerostructure OEMs, suppliers, and other KOLs. More than 100 interviews were conducted covering countries in North America, Europe, and Asia. Also gathered, data and reports available in the public domain such as industry, associations, and institutions

During the survey, we asked below strategic questions from the interviewee to derive views on the market structure, development, and competitive landscape, also, mapping the technological challenges and the identification of improvement and growth in the entire aerostructure industry.

What are your views on the overall market size for aerostructure?

What are the major segmentations to be considered?

What are the major changes tracked by you in the last five years?

What is your expectation regarding the development of the market until 2028?

What are the key drivers?

What market segmentation will show strong growth?

What products are in high demand?

What are the general requirements of the end market regarding aerostructure?

Who are the major market players in the aerostructure market?

What are the strength/weaknesses of the major companies?

Global Aerostructures Market Table of Contents

Component Outlook

Fuselage

Empennage

Flight Control Surfaces

Wings

Nose

Nacelle & Pylon

Doors & Skids

Material Outlook

Composites

Alloys & Super Alloys

Metals

End-Use Outlook

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM)

Aftermarket

Platform Outlook

Fixed-Wing Aircraft

Business & General Aviation

Military Aviation

Rotary-Wing Aircraft

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)

Advanced Air Mobility

Regional Outlook

Europe Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Sweden Austria Finland Belgium Turkey Russia Poland Hungary Czech Republic Switzerland Netherlands Rest of Europe

North America U.S. Canada Mexico

Asia-Pacific Japan China India Australia South Korea Vietnam New Zealand Philippines Thailand Malaysia Hong Kong Taiwan Singapore Indonesia Sri Lanka Rest of Asia-Pacific

South America Brazil Argentina Chile Colombia Rest of South America

Middle East And Africa South Africa U.A.E. Saudi Arabia Oman Qatar Iran Egypt Rest of Middle East and Africa



Key Players of the Aerostructures Market

Spirit Aerosystems, Inc.

Airbus SE

Saab AB

Triumph Group

Leonardo S.P.A

GKN Aerospace

Safran SA.

Arconic, Elbit Systems Ltd.

FACC AG

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Collins Aerospace

The Boeing Company

Sonaca Group

ST Engineering, Ruag Group

Latecoere

IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries)

The Nordam Group LLC

Aernnova Aerospace S.A

Magellan Aerospace Corporation

Cyient

Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC)

Korea Aerospace Industries

Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc.

Sabca NV

MHI Canada Aerospace, Inc.

Daher

Direct Purchase of Aerostructures Market Research Report at: https://www.delvens.com/checkout/aerostructures-market-trends-forecast-till-2028

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DETROIT, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Airspace Link Inc., a leading provider of scalable drone software and solutions, and Volatus Aerospace, a leader in uncrewed aircraft operations, are announcing a newly formed global partnership.

Airspace Link Logo (PRNewsfoto/Airspace Link)

In this partnership, the two companies will collaborate on advanced uncrewed operations, bringing together Airspace Link's advanced planning, integration, and data capabilities with Volatus technological and operational excellence. This partnership will enable the two companies to collaborate on advanced operations that propel the industry forward, while ensuring and showcasing the safe integration of remotely piloted aircraft systems.

The group will be teaming on a multitude of projects which will include continued work on cross-border operations between Ontario, Canada and Detroit, Michigan. The United States and Canada enjoy the world's most lucrative and enduring trade relationship. Over the past few years, supply chain systems have experienced a growing hardship with transportation of goods through air, ground, and maritime transport. The partnership between Airspace Link and Volatus will explore remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) and applications for secured cargo package delivery between Windsor, Canada and Detroit, Michigan. The pair feels that RPAS will propose new mobility solutions to help solve some of the supply chain challenges as well as provide new solutions in times of need and Volatus, as a bonded carrier, can advance those operations even further.

Extending west, the team will explore development of oil and gas operations, as well as utility and rail inspections in North Dakota using the Vantis Network. Additional public safety and cargo operations are also underway to support local community development in Texas and other states.

On a global scale, the partnership will spread operational investments into Europe and the Middle East with their first project focused on airspace modernization for Dubai. Other target areas for advancement will include intra-island operations for cargo delivery around the Caribbean Islands along with opportunities in South America.

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Volatus' team of experts have paved the way for advancing the use of uncrewed aircraft for BVLOS operations in Canada. Already conducting high volumes of oil and gas pipeline and utility inspections globally and leveraging opportunities in new applications such as methane detection and middle mile cargo operations, Volatus offers a variety of different aircraft platforms and capabilities, each one outfitted for the specific mission at hand.

"Airspace Link's AirHub platform connects with key stakeholders that need to participate in the implementation of these valuable services so that there is safe integration and community acceptance from local authorities. We work to manage, inform, and obtain authorizations, if required, from the regulatory agencies as well as communicate with drone operators and the community through digital data transfer, all in one shared platform. We are excited about partnering with Volatus to integrate our application services and data to inform the safe planning and execution of these challenging missions" said Michael Healander, Co-Founder & CEO of Airspace Link.

"Partnering with Airspace Link is a critical component in supporting our strategic global business efforts," says Michael Hill, Regional Director at Volatus Aerospace. "We look forward to advancing drone operations through these focused efforts with Airspace Link."

Airspace Link's AirHub solution assists with controlled airspace operations requiring Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC) approval from the FAA in the United States. The AirHub solution offers approval for further justification digitally with the FAA.

About Airspace Link, Inc:

Airspace Link's vision is to create a world where the safe integration of drone's fuels human progress, advancing social equity, the environment, and the economy. Founded in Detroit in 2018 by CEO Michael Healander, Airspace Link is one of the few FAA Approved UAS Service Suppliers of the Low Altitude Authorization & Notification Capability (LAANC). Airspace Link's cloud-based platform, AirHub, provides the digital infrastructure required to support the safe use of recreational and commercial drone use in communities at scale, supporting the growth of drone operations, drone service providers, drone manufacturers, package delivery and air taxi deployment in the future.

Visit https://airspacelink.com/ to learn more and stay up to date on the latest innovations in this space.

About Volatus Aerospace:

Volatus Aerospace Corp. is a leading provider of integrated drone solutions throughout North America and growing into Latin America and globally. Volatus serves civil, public safety, and defense markets with imaging and inspection, security and surveillance, equipment sales and support, training, as well as R&D, design, and manufacturing. Through our subsidiary, Volatus Aviation, we are introducing green and innovative drone solutions to supplement and replace traditional aircraft and helicopters for long-linear inspections such as pipeline, energy, rail, and cargo services. Volatus is committed to carbon neutrality; the fostering of a safe, equitable and inclusive workplace; and responsible governance.

Learn more today at https://volatusaerospace.com/

For partnership inquiries, please reach out to Alice Griffith alicegriffith@airspacelink.com

Media Contacts:

Airspace Link, Inc.:

Casie Ocana / casie.ocana@airspacelink.com

Volatus Aerospace:

Danielle Gagne / +1-579-977-5066; ext. 92006

Cision

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SOURCE Airspace Link
Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc.

Detroit, Michigan, May 08, 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 2 ROSA security robots from a major US regional banking group. The banking group has more than 1,000 branches with over $150 billion in assets. This client marks RADs initial deployment servicing the banking and financial market sector.



The initial 2 ROSA security devices will be deployed at 2 of the banks urban branches in the Midwest. The ROSAs will be positioned adjacent to the banks exterior ATM machines acting as a force-multiplier to the banks existing security program.

Banks, like most other enterprise clients are faced with the dilemma of having to provide security but not being able to afford a guarding staff, while still relying on legacy security systems, like unmonitored cameras," stated Mark Folmer, CPP, PSP, FSyI, President of RAD. ROSA fills that void perfectly, now providing that extra advantage of being able to detect  and deter potentially dangerous and costly situations.

According to a study published by Pinkerton, there are approximately 400,000 ATMs in the U.S. Despite their convenience, ATMs expose bank customers to a heightened risk of victimization and create a new dimension of risk to be considered by financial institutions. ATM crimes in the U.S. increased 600% from 2019 to 2020. The three common types of crime related to ATMs involve physical attacks on machines, card skimming devices added on to the machines to steal customer information, and personal assault at the machines.

RAD continues to penetrate new vertical markets, said Steve Reinharz, CEO of AITX and RAD. I anticipate that this deployment is just the beginning of wide acceptance of our innovative solutions in the financial sector.

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The Company has published detailed demonstrations of the ROSA solution securing bank ATMs. The Company also noted that the 2 ROSA units are expected to be deployed and activated in June 2023.

ROSA is a multiple award-winning, compact, self-contained, portable, security and communication solution that can be installed and activated 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.

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 .

###

Steve Reinharz

949-636-7060

@SteveReinharz




Fortune Business Insights

Key companies covered in anti-jamming market are BAE System (U.K.), Furuno Electric (Japan), Hexagon AB (Canada), Cobham (U.K.), Israel Aerospace Industries (Israel), L3Harris Technologies Inc. (U.S.), Lockheed Martin (U.S.), Raytheon Technologies Corporation (U.S.), ST Engineering (Singapore) and more players profiled.

Pune, India, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global anti-jamming market size was valued at USD 3.39 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 8.28 billion by 2029 with a CAGR of 12.36% during the forecast period. Rising applications of GPS jammers at the time of joint military exercises or in war zones are expected to propel the market course in a growing direction. The increasing demand for UAVs in the defense sector is expected to facilitate market development for anti-jamming devices. Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report titled Anti-Jamming Market, 2022-2029.

Get a Free Sample Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/anti-jamming-market-102594

List of Key Players Profiled in the Anti-Jamming Market Report:

BAE System (U.K.)

Furuno Electric (Japan)

Hexagon AB (Canada)

Cobham (U.K.)

Israel Aerospace Industries (Israel)

L3Harris Technologies Inc. (U.S.)

Lockheed Martin (U.S.)

Raytheon Technologies Corporation (U.S.)

ST Engineering (Singapore)

Thales (France)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2022-2029 Forecast CAGR 12.36 % 2029 Value Projection USD 8.28 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 3.66 Billion Historical Data 2018-2020 No. of Pages 234 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Platform Analysis

By Receiver Type Analysis

By Technique Analysis

By Application Analysis Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

South America

Middle East and Africa Anti-Jamming Market Growth Drivers Proliferation of GPS Jamming Activities to Boost the Demand for the Product in Commercial Aviation Increasing Demand for UAVs in the Defense Sector will Propel the Market Growth

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/anti-jamming-market-102594

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Russia-Ukraine War Impact:

Russia-Ukraine War Altered the Procurement Priorities Affecting Market Growth

The Russian-Ukraine war changed procurement priorities and defense spending over several platforms. In April 2022, it was reported by the Civil Aviation Authority of France that the satellite navigation attempts for jamming near the Black Sea by the Russian army. This led to the disruption in the navigation systems of many commercial airlines on the route.

Segments

Airborne to Dictate Due to Rising Number of Satellites

On the basis of platform, the market is divided into airborne, land, naval, and space. The airborne segment is anticipated to have the dominant segment due to the rising number of satellites owned by developed and developing countries.

Military and Government Grade to Dictate Due to Increasing Demand in Defense Sector

Based on receiver type, the market is categorized into military and government-grade and commercial transportation grade. The military and government grade segment is set to be the fastest segment due to increasing demand in the defense sector.

Nulling System to Dictate Due to Wider Applications across Every Platform

On the basis of technique, the market is divided into nulling system, beam steering system, and excision system. Nulling system is expected to have the highest CAGR due to its broad applications and technological capability.

Position, Navigation and Timing Devices Dominate the Market Due to Installation Over Aircraft and UAVs

On the basis of application, the market is divided into flight control, surveillance & reconnaissance, position, navigation and timing, targeting, casualty evacuation, and others. Position, navigation and timing segment held the highest market share due to utilization in commercial aircraft, UAVs, and so on.

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Report Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the top segments and the latest trends in the market. It comprehensively discusses the driving and restraining factors and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. Additionally, it examines the regional developments and the strategies undertaken by the market's key players.

Drivers and Restraints

Increasing Applications of GPS Jammers to Drive Product Demand

Rising application of GPS jammers at the time of military exercise or in war zones is anticipated to drive the anti-jamming market growth. In April 2022, satellite navigation jamming attempts by the Russian army near the Black Sea area was reported by the Civil Aviation Authority of France. Increasing demand for UAVs in the defense sector is expected to drive market growth. Technological improvements in UAVs have led to the development of lightweight and robust drones, which have extended range and battery backup. Miniaturization and increased beam-forming capabilities are expected to push the market course.

However, advancement in quantum communication is expected to impede market growth.

Regional Insights

North America to Lead Market Share Owing to Increasing Demand for Space-based Anti-Jammers

North America is expected to lead the anti-jamming market share due to the high demand for space-based anti-jammers. In August 2022, Lockheed Martin won a contract worth USD 32 million for the integration of Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) with M-code anti-jam capabilities.

Asia Pacific is set to have noteworthy growth due to rising defense spending by China, India, and Japan. In June 2022, the Kalyani Group launched BHARAT 150 drone with anti-jam capabilities for defense applications.

Europe is set to be the third largest market due to increasing procurements of anti-jammers as a precautionary measure against Russia-Ukraine war-like circumstances.

Competitive Landscape

Financial Support Offered to Key Players to Improve Market Growth

The global market is consolidated in nature due to the presence of major anti-jamming players such as BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, Thales Group, and L3Harris Technologies Inc. The key players are focused on offering advanced and portable anti-jammer for air, land, sea, and space-based platforms. In December 2021, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded an additional contract worth USD 315 million to BAE Systems for M-code anti-jam devices for the U.S. armed forces. The total contract value reached USD 640 million after the additional purchase.

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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  Key Contracts & Agreements, Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest Trends Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis

Quantitative Insights-Impact of COVID-19 Impact on Anti-Jamming Market Impact of COVID-19 on Anti-Jamming Market Potential Opportunities due to COVID Impact Impact of COVID-19 on the Anti-Jamming Market

Quantitative Insights-Impact of Russia Ukraine War on Global Anti-Jamming Market Impact of Russia Ukraine War on Anti-Jamming Market Potential Opportunities due to Russia Ukraine War Impact



TOC Continued...!

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Key Industry Development

September 2022- Collins Aerospace secured a five-year contract worth USD 583 million from the U.S. Army for Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing System (MAPS) Gen II anti-jammers.

Read Related Insights:

Surveillance Radars Market to Hit USD 20.46 Billion by 2029 | At a CAGR of 10.5%

Electronic Warfare Market to Hit USD 37.60 Billion by 2029 | At a CAGR of 5.56%

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FILE PHOTO: The Apple Inc logo is seen at the entrance to the Apple store, in Brussels

By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) - Apple Inc on Monday failed to convince a U.S. appeals court that security startup Corellium Inc infringed its copyrights by simulating its iOS operating system to help researchers find security flaws in Apple devices.

The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Corellium lawfully recreated Apple's system under the U.S. copyright doctrine of fair use, furthering scientific progress by aiding important security research.

Representatives for the companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the decision.

Florida-based Corellium's software allows users to run iOS on non-Apple devices and inspect and modify the operating system in ways that allow security researchers to search for vulnerabilities more effectively. Apple sued Corellium for copyright infringement in South Florida federal court in 2019.

Apple unsuccessfully tried to buy Corellium for nearly $23 million before filing the lawsuit, the appeals court said.

The district court dismissed Apple's claims over Corellium's iOS simulator in 2020. Apple appealed in 2021.

The 11th Circuit agreed that Corellium made fair use of iOS on Monday and said Corellium's software adds new features that help security researchers "do their work in a way that physical iPhones just can't."

The appeals court rejected Apple's arguments that Corellium simply repackaged iOS in a different format for profit, harming Apple's market for its operating system and its security-research programs.

Corellium "opened the door for deeper security research into operating systems like iOS," the circuit court said.

The appeals court sent the case back to the district court to consider if Corellium infringed copyrights covering Apple's icons and wallpapers or contributed to infringement by third parties.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington)
Market Research Future

Automotive Gear Market Growth Drives by Growing Demand for Low-Carbon-Footprint Technologies, Economic Growth and Ongoing Industrialization

New York, US, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  Automotive Gear Market Information by Material, Product Type, Vehicle Type - Forecast till 2030, The automotive gear market was valued at USD 28.40 billion in 2015, and experts at MRFR forecast that it would grow at a 6.4% CAGR between 2022 and 2030.

Automotive Gear Market Overview

An automobile gear can be described as a rotating object with teeth that, thanks to its ability to modify torque, speed, and source direction, transmits torque by meshing with another toothed machine element or gear. The use of gears in several auto systems is acknowledged as a crucial component of a vehicle system.

Commercial and passenger cars are the two main vehicle classes in the automotive gears industry. The business vehicle uses automotive equipment that can carry more than 15 people. A passenger car employs gears to transfer power from the crankshaft (the rotating axle that receives power from the engine) to the driveshaft, which subsequently powers the wheels. They may be created from both non-metallic and metallic gears, among other materials.

Market Competitive Landscape:

The important vendors part of the automotive gear industry are

Mitsubishi Group

NSK Ltd

Bharat Gears Ltd

Eaton

Dana Holding Corporation

Linamar Corporation

Neapco Inc

ZF TRW

GKN plc

Robert Bosch GmbH

Among others.





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The automotive gear market offers a variety of products, including planetary gears, hypoid gears, worm gears, rack and pinion gears, intersecting shaft gears, parallel shaft gears, spur gears, and helical gears. These goods are used in a variety of systems, including steering, differential, and transmission systems.

Local, tier-1, as well as tier-2 competitors, inundate the worldwide market. Players in tiers 1 and 2 offer an extensive range of products and have a strong presence in various regions worldwide. Many businesses dominate the worldwide market as a result of their strong brand recognition, unique product offerings, financial stability, and extensive geographical presence.

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Automotive Gear Market Report Scope:

Report Metrics Details Market Size 2030 2030: USD 56.27 Billion CAGR during 2022-2030 6.4% CAGR Base Year 2021 Forecast 2022-2030 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Material, Product type, Vehicle type Key Market Opportunities Economic growth and ongoing industrialization, which helps in production of motor vehicles and other manufacturing output Key Market Drivers Growing demand for low-carbon-footprint technologies



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Automotive Gear Market USP Covered:

Market Drivers:

The automotive gear market will see incredible development in the years to come, in response to the surging rate of vehicle manufacturing. Automotive gears will be more in demand as vehicle manufacturing rises since they improve product longevity and fuel economy. For instance, the Indian vehicle sector's (including component manufacturing) projected value by 2026 ranges between $251.4 and $282.8 billion, according to IBEF (India Brand Equity Foundation), an institution of the Indian Government that promotes exports. The Indian car industry is expected to grow quickly in 20212022, once it has recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic's impacts. The rise of automotive gears is therefore fueled by an increase in vehicle manufacturing.

As the automotive gear market grows, new trends are appearing in the industry to stay up with the market's surrounding technological improvements. For instance, in 2021 the Swiss gear technology company Humbel, one of the pioneers in gearboxes and transmissions, designed prototyping for specific special components like internal (ring gears) delivered in the form of adaptable, quick, and dependable services that are used in things like e-axels and e-gears in the E-automotive vehicles.

The construction sector has seen a growth in investments, which has been followed by a rise in disposable income, increasing the target market's purchasing power globally. The consumption of the worldwide automotive gear market is anticipated to increase between 2022 and 2030 as a result of these key variables. The market is expected to be driven by the significant increase in demand for greater connection, vehicle functionality, and improved amenities. A higher level of globalization and a rise in the demand for high-quality gears as a result of increased global competition are also anticipated to foster an environment that is conducive to foreign direct investment, which is predicted to boost employment in the technology sector and fuel market growth over the forecast period, which runs through 2030.

Market Restraints:

The existence of rigorous regulations for the reduction of excessive emissions has forced auto manufacturers to design and construct ecologically sound substitutes. Electric cars are becoming a far more appealing alternative for buyers due to their increased range, battery life, dependability, and low price. As a result, the market for electric vehicles is expected to grow, which would probably hurt the automotive gear market. Similar to this, it is anticipated that high-end gear system costs may restrain market growth over the projection period.



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COVID 19 Analysis

Due to the lockdown in many developed nations, the COVID-19 outbreak halted the manufacture of a number of goods in the worldwide automobile gear business. The market for automobile gear was severely affected as a result. In the first quarter of 2020, COVID-19 already had an influence on the sales of machinery and equipment, and it is anticipated to have a negative effect on market expansion in 2021. Prior to the development of the coronavirus, which has had a significant negative impact on the economies of large industrial nations like the U.S., Germany, Italy, UK, and China, the need for equipment and machinery was mostly seen in such nations. Additionally, the effects of the lockout are still unclear, and organizations' ability to recover financially depends entirely on their cash reserves.

Automotive Gear Market Segmentation

By Product Type

The product types considered are Bevel, Rack & Pinion, Planetary, Worm, Hypoid, Non-Metallic along with Helical.

By Vehicle Type

The major vehicle types include Passenger cars, LCVs, HCV, and more.

By Material

Key materials covered in the MRFR study include Metallic as well as Non-Metallic.

By Application

The main market applications are Differential, Transmission, Steering Systems, and many others.



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Automotive Gear Market Regional Insights

China is the largest market for the production and sale of gear, followed by India. The market is also being pushed by the rising demand for lightweight automotive components and fuel-efficient cars. Furthermore, because of their large processing capacities, access to an abundance of raw materials, and emphasis on raising profits by manufacturers, China and Taiwan are important locations for the production of gear. The largest automotive gears market is in the Asia-Pacific region, which is also predicted to develop at the quickest rate over the next several years.

Related Reports:

Industrial Gearbox Market Research Report Information By Type, By Plan, By Part, By Industry, And By Region  Market Forecast Till 2030

Wind Turbine Gearbox Market Research Report by Type, Application, Installation Type, Capacity, and Region - Global Forecast to 2030

Automotive Gear Shift System Market Research Report Information by System Type, by Fuel Type, by Application and regions 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 regarding diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.

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AutoScheduler.AI

Presentation on the Grandmaster Warehouse and How Planning Tools Help to Optimize the Warehouse

AUSTIN, Texas, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AutoScheduler.AI, an innovative Warehouse Management System (WMS) accelerator, will be exhibiting and presenting at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo 2023, which is held May 8-10, 2023, at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL. Keith Moore, CEO of AutoScheduler, will speak on AutoScheduler.AI: Grandmaster Warehouse on May 8, 2023, at 1:10 PM on Stage 1.



The Gartner Supply Chain Symposium offers attendees a one-stop-shop to access research-backed sessions, expert advice, and problem-solving with industry peers and colleagues. Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo addresses the strategic needs of CSCOs and supply chain executives.

Statistics show that 99% of warehouses run imperfectly, says Keith Moore, CEO, AutoScheduler.AI. They use heuristics, tribal knowledge, overtime, and elbow grease to just make it work. Frequently trucks are late, people don't show up, robotic system implementations don't stay on schedule, and much more. That's why warehouses must use a warehouse resource optimizer to dynamically improve operations and increase efficiencies."

In Keiths talk, he will discuss how one percent of warehouse sites dont have these problems because theyre using a new breed of software to automate the planning function inside of the building. This software tells who is doing what, where, and when. Attendees will learn how these planning tools can turn an imperfect warehouse into an optimized one, helping sites minimize travel, reduce touches, ship on time/in full, and drive labor efficiency.

Sitting on top of a WMS, AutoScheduler uses capacity-constrained schedules to solve problems such as on-time, in-full deliveries, labor shortages, and inventory imbalances while ensuring customer demand is met. Optimizing warehouse efficiency is the best way to improve supply chain operations OTIF, and leveraging technologies such as prescriptive analytics and warehouse orchestration can help acquire whats left on the table in supply chain operations.

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In addition to participating at the North America Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo 2023, executives from AutoScheduler will be exhibiting at the Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo 2023 conference, 5  7 June, in Barcelona, Spain.

Keith Moore is the Chief Executive Officer for AutoScheduler.AI and focuses on bringing the future of technology into warehousing. He works with the top 10 Consumer Goods, Beverage, and Distribution companies to drive efficiency in distribution centers. AutoScheduler will be demonstrating its product offerings at the symposium in Booth 114.

About AutoScheduler.AI

AutoScheduler.AI creates dynamic warehouse plans directly injected into the WMS to optimize activities based on constraints, ensuring sites run optimally at peak performance. Our intuitive AI and Machine Learning platform, developed with P&G and implemented at P&G, Unilever, General Mills, and others, streamlines operations by seamlessly integrating with existing WMS & ERP. We provide dynamic dock scheduling, labor level-loading, inventory balancing, proactive cross-docking, redundant workforce elimination, and more. Clients benefit from prescriptive analytics to drive efficiencies and create value in the supply chain. For more information, email info@autoscheduler.ai .

About Gartner Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo

Gartner Supply Chain, Symposium/Xpo conference, delivers must-have insights, strategies, and frameworks for chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) and supply chain leaders to think big and drive real impact within their organizations. Join a global community of CSCOs and supply chain executives in 2023. For more information, visit: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/na/supply-chain-us

Contact:

Becky Boyd

MediaFirst PR

Becky@MediaFirst.Net

Cell: (404) 421-8497




By News Centre

The Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group on Saturday exchanged accusations over an attack on a diplomatic Turkish convoy on Saturday.

The official vehicle of Turkish Ambassador to Sudan Ismail Cobanoglu was hit by gunfire in the capital Khartoum on Saturday, according to Turkish diplomatic sources.

No casualties were reported and the source of the gunfire was not yet clear.

In a statement, the RSF accused the army of opening fire on the Turkish ambassadors vehicle.

This most recent attack is yet another blatant violation of international norms and agreements protecting diplomatic missions by the SAF (Sudanese Armed Forces), the paramilitary group said.

The shooting occurred despite prior coordination regarding evacuation efforts and the fact that the embassy premises are under the control of the SAF, it added.

The RSF said that its forces had managed to successfully evacuate the Turkish ambassador and his delegation to safety.

But the Sudanese army denied the accusation, saying the RSF was responsible for the attack.

The RSF militia fired on the Turkish ambassador's car and held him, the army said in a statement.

The RSF is using its media to claim that the armed forces had carried out the attack, but it forgot that the ambassador is there and can simply explain what happened, the statement added.

More than 550 people have been killed and thousands injured in fighting between two rival generals  army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohammed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo  since April 15.

A disagreement had been fomenting in recent months between the two sides concerning the integration of the RSF into the armed forces  a key condition of Sudan's transition agreement with political groups.

Sudan has been without a functioning government since fall 2021 when the military dismissed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok's transitional government and declared a state of emergency in a move decried by political forces as a "coup."

The transitional period, which started in August 2019 after the ouster of President Omar al-Bashir, was scheduled to end with elections in early 2024.
Axcient

DENVER, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axcient, a leader in business availability software for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized Axcients Senior Marketing Manager Kaitlyn Langer, and Channel Event Manager Olivia Guidera, to the Women of the Channel list for 2023. Every year, CRN recognizes women from vendor, distributor, and solution provider organizations whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry.



The Axcient community continues to grow, and Kaitlyn and Olivia are key to that success, said Tim Sheahen, SVP of Global Sales at Axcient. We are proud to recognize their accomplishments in building channel-focused programs that help MSPs get the greatest possible value from their Axcient investment and help them grow their businesses through tools like the Axcient Marketing Portal. We look forward to helping even more partners take advantage of Axcient services.

The CRN 2023 Women of the Channel honorees bring their creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence.

We are ecstatic to announce this years honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what theyve accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next.

The 2023 Women of the Channel list will be featured in the June issue of CRN Magazine, with online coverage starting May 8 at www.CRN.com/WOTC.

To learn more about Axcient, please visit 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 continuity from events such as security breaches, ransomware, human error, and natural disasters. For more information, visit www.axcient.com.

Story continues

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

Follow The Channel Company: Twitter , LinkedIn , and Facebook .

Media Contact

Amanda Lee

ARL Strategic Communications for Axcient

Email: Amanda.Lee@arlpr.com




(Bloomberg) -- Baidu Inc. is adding a phone to its portfolio of smart gadgets as it builds out a hardware ecosystem to complement its internet services.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Beijing-based firms Xiaodu unit, similar to Amazon.com Inc.s Alexa division, will unveil its first smartphone product next week, a spokesperson said Monday. Much like Amazon and US search leader Google, Baidu has developed smart speakers and displays for the home. The Chinese company calls its DuerOS software for those devices a conversational artificial intelligence system.

Baidu was among the earliest to offer an alternative to OpenAIs ChatGPT  with its Ernie Bot unveiled in March  following years of investment in AI. The company has said it plans to embed its AI tools into all major business lines, including in search, autonomous driving and smart gadgets.

The introduction of a handset under the Baidu umbrella would mark the first major Chinese entrant in the congested mobile market in years  and the first from among the countrys internet giants. But its unclear how ambitious the companys entry will be.

I dont think Baidu is going all out in the smartphone business, which is already very mature, said Shawn Yang, Managing Director at Blue Lotus Capital Advisors. Its tough to make an impact just from a software angle.

The smartphone market suffered a double-digit decline last year, pressuring already thin profit margins for Chinese manufacturers. Global leaders Apple Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. take the lions share of profit from device sales, with other companies looking to recoup costs via software partnerships and app distribution deals.

Story continues

(Updates with additional context)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Zahid F. Sarder Saddi, Activist

Bangladeshi Human Rights Activist and Civil Society Leader Zahid F Sarder Saddi lauds Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken for advocacy of Bangladeshi rights as Washington sends a strong message to Bangladesh.

Washington, DC, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As climate change, human rights, democratic governance, and other humanitarian issues continue in Bangladesh, Zahid F Sarder Saddi , a prominent member of the Bangladeshi-American Society, has issued a statement thanking United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken for sending a clear message to Bangladesh about its foreign policy and commitment to protecting human rights, free and fair elections, freedom of religion, and the rule of law; providing resources for victims of Rohingya issues; and promoting security by helping the people of Bangladesh and other countries in the region.







Photo: Bangladeshi Community Leader and Bangladesh former Foreign Advisor Zahid F Sarder Saddi with United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

The impromptu meeting between Zahid F Sarder Saddi , who is the Foreign Advisor to the Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the Hon Begum Khaleda Zia, and United States Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken happened after Secretary Blinkens recent address to the US Congress. The reunion between the decades-long friends was a simple courtesy meeting but indicative and consistent with the support Secretary Blinken has provided the Bangladeshi community worldwide throughout his career.

I believe that Secretary Blinken holds the Bangladeshi people as a priority in his navigation of foreign affairs. The ideals he and the Biden administration stand for are ones that we all share, and I think well see positive change in Bangladesh and the Indo-Pacific region in time, Saddi said of the Secretary.

Against the backdrop of the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh-US relations and the approach of the countrys January 2024 elections, Secretary Blinken recently met on April 10, 2023 with Bangladesh Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen , sending a clear message to Bangladesh.

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U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Bangladesh Foreign Minister A. K. Abdul Momen at the State Department in Washington, April 10, 2023.

At the bilateral meeting in Washington DC, Secretary Blinken thanked Bangladesh for hosting Rohingya refugees and spotlighted the nearly $2.1B in U.S. humanitarian assistance since 2017.

However, Secretary Blinken primarily focused on the strong message that the United States is closely monitoring the developments of the January 2024 elections in Bangladesh .

According to a press release from the State Department, Secretary Blinken expressed concerns about violence against and intimidation of the media and civil society, including under the Digital Security Act. He underscored that free and fair elections and respect for human rights in Bangladesh are critical as we seek to deepen our bilateral relationship.





Photo: United States Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken Addresses US Congress, Bangladesh former Foreign Advisor Zahid F Sarder Saddi seen in the picture sitting behind the Secretary of State. Image: C-SPAN

Secretary Blinken also restated US commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth, free and fair elections, human and labor rights, and freedom of expression in Bangladesh and emphasized the need for fair elections and respect for human rights and democracy in Bangladesh. Secretary Blinkin is reported to have said that the world is looking to Bangladesh to set a strong example of free and fair elections for the region and beyond.

I want to thank Secretary Blinken for sending a strong message to Bangladesh about the necessity of fair and inclusive elections, says Saddi. They will be crucial for the deepening of relations between our two nations and the strengthening of human rights for the Bangladeshi people.

About Zahid F Sarder Saddi

Zahid F Sarder Saddi is a prominent Bangladeshi politician, humanitarian, and advocate for Bangladesh and its people. He served as a Foreign Advisor to the three-time Prime Minister of Bangladesh, the Hon Begum Khaleda Zia. He was also appointed as a Special Envoy to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP and was nominated as a member of the Bangladesh Parliament Pirojpur-1 constituency. Zahid F Sarder Saddi works with several organizations and holds a special passion for helping the Bangladeshi community in the United States and around the world. He has been involved in the Bangladeshi American Society for over 25 years and works to carry the voice of Bangladeshi Americans to lawmakers. Zahid F Sarder Saddi is also a Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Bangla Times , a leading Bangladeshi English and Bangla language newspaper. Zahid F Sarder Saddi has received numerous accolades , including a humanitarian award for his work during the COVID-19 pandemic in helping to promote vaccine distribution to the Bangladeshi population.

To learn more about Zahid F Sarder Saddi, please visit www.ZahidFSarderSaddi.com or reach out to Zahid F Sarder Saddi at info-at-zahidfsardersaddi.com




To most people, the word hacker has negative connotations, but many individuals in this often misidentified group conduct work for the betterment of the online world.

See Next: Gamers Making Thousands Selling Gaming Skins And Assets: Gameflip's Bold Vision For The Future Of Gaming Commerce

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology  led by the growth of ChatGPT  has governments around the world concerned about its impact. The White House is taking steps to address these concerns, including the announcement of a mass hacking event at the DEF CON security conference later this year.

Why Is This Event Needed?

The presidential AI initiative emerges amidst increasing global interest and concern in controlling the technology, driven by the excitement and funding ignited by ChatGPT.

The Biden administration is serious about addressing the future of AI, and it's joined globally by many other governments. For example, legislative members of the European Union are finalizing revisions to a comprehensive AI Act that will limit and potentially prohibit certain AI applications.

While there are growing concerns around the use of AI, there's considerable use cases growing outside of chat-based applications, or instances that could threaten global jobs. For example, AtomBeam utilizes AI to compact data by up to 75% which increases data bandwidth 4x.

The White House-endorsed event will be conducted to identify vulnerabilities in generative AI systems. Numerous attendees, including hackers and policy specialists, will be tasked with investigating generative models from leading companies such as Alphabet Inc.'s Google, Nvidia Corp. and Stability AI.

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The event is being planned with the help of the AI Vulnerability Database, Humane Intelligence, Microsoft Corp. and SeedAI. A point system will be used to determine a winner, with a capture-the-flag format implemented to encourage participants to focus on various harmful behaviors.

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The growing popularity of AI is forcing the hands of governments around the world. Detractors argue that many AI systems, while highly potent, remain enigmatic, posing risks such as promoting biased decision-making, displacing human employment, disseminating false information and possibly engaging in unlawful activities autonomously.

Despite the potential for misuse, AI companies continue to attract large audiences of users and investors.

In an opinion article published by The New York Times, Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, noted that the current state of AI is similar to when Google and Facebook were new to the world.

"As the use of AI becomes more widespread, public officials have a responsibility to ensure this hard-learned history doesn't repeat itself," she said.

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This article Biden Administration Turns To Hackers To Tame AI As White House Looks Towards Regulating Artificial Intelligence To Preserve Jobs originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
(Bloomberg) -- Binance restarted withdrawals of Bitcoin after citing congestion on the tokens blockchain for two halts in less than 12 hours, suspensions that weighed on cryptocurrency markets.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The company said higher fees have been applied to pending transactions so they get picked up by Bitcoin miners  the computer rigs that operate the network. Withdrawals had been down for over two hours on Monday in Asia.

To prevent a similar recurrence in the future, our fees have been adjusted, it said. We will continue to monitor on-chain activity and adjust accordingly if needed.

Binance had also halted Bitcoin withdrawals on Sunday for about 90 minutes, blaming congestion on the tokens blockchain.

Bitcoin, the biggest cryptocurrency, fell as much as 3.7% and was trading at about $27,950 as of 9:05 a.m. in London on Monday. An index of the biggest 100 digital assets posted a similar decline.

Binance is by far the largest exchange in the digital-asset sector following the collapse of rival FTX last year. Trading volume on the platform exceeded $7 billion in the past 24 hours, five times as much as the next nearest platform OKX, according to data from CoinGecko.

Earlier this year Bitcoin developer Casey Rodarmor released a protocol  called Ordinals  that helped people mint nonfungible tokens on the network for the first time. That boosted transactions on the Bitcoin blockchain.

NFTs or digital collectibles are often based on Ethereum, cryptos most important commercial highway. Their emergence on the Bitcoin network represents a new application of a blockchain that is better known for its store-of-value and payment functions.

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Ordinals led to a massive run up in network fees and congestion, said Hayden Hughes, co-founder of social-trading platform Alpha Impact.

Binance in its tweets also used the crypto phrase rest assured, funds are SAFU to suggest that customer funds are safe.

Last years crypto crash and bankruptcies like FTX undermined confidence in digital-asset platforms and skepticism continues to linger over the industry. Binance and rivals subsequently redoubled efforts to try and dispel worries about whether they have sufficient reserves.

Fees Mismatch

The withdrawal fees charged by exchanges fell short of the fees charged by miners, said Stefan von Haenisch, head of sales trading at OSL SG Pte in Singapore.

The queue of transactions pending verification for inclusion in the blockchain has experienced significant growth in recent days, causing an increase in transaction fees and confirmation times, he said.

Binance on Sunday also moved about $4.4 billion worth of Bitcoin across its digital-asset wallets, based on an analysis from research company CryptoQuant. The exchange said in a tweet that Bitcoin was moved between Binance hot and cold wallets due to the BTC address adjustments.

Cold wallets arent connected to the internet, unlike hot ones, and are often viewed as a more secure way of storing digital currency.

Read more: Data Signal Binance Moved $4.4 Billion of Bitcoin Across Wallets

(Updates markets in the fifth paragraph.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Liechtenstein is planning to accept Bitcoin (BTC) as payment for state services, Prime Minister Daniel Risch said in an interview with German business daily Handelsblatt.

"A payment option with Bitcoin is coming," said Risch, who also serves as Liechtensteins finance minister.

Although there isn't a specific timeframe for the implementation of this payment option, Risch said the plan is to accept Bitcoin deposits and exchange them immediately for the Swiss franc, Liechtensteins national currency.

A similar approach has been used by the Swiss communities Zug and Lugano, where local authorities accept Bitcoin for the payment of certain taxes and public services.

Risch is also reportedly open to investing state funds in Bitcoin in the future.

With the state's reserves currently standing at 2.23 billion Swiss francs ($2.51 billion), the principality each year saves three times its 900 million-franc ($1 billion) annual budget, investing the money in capital markets.

Part of those funds could be invested in the worlds largest cryptocurrency, per the report.

Crypto assets like Bitcoin are currently still too risky, Risch said. But this assessment can change.

El Salvador and Lugano Sign Agreement to Spread Bitcoin Adoption

Liechtenstein's crypto-friendly policies

This is not the first time Liechtenstein has made headlines thanks to its supportive regulatory environment that has helped to position it as a leading destination for blockchain and cryptocurrency businesses.

In 2019, Liechtenstein passed the Blockchain Act, which created a legal framework for blockchain and cryptocurrency businesses. The law recognizes the unique features of blockchain technology and provides clarity on how blockchain-based assets should be classified and regulated.

EU Lauds 'Comprehensive Regulation' as MiCA Crypto Law Passes

The principality is also home to several banks that are open to working with cryptocurrency businesses, as well as to regulated cryptocurrency exchanges, including Bittrex Global and LCX, which are licensed by the Financial Market Authority (FMA) of Liechtenstein.

Additionally, Liechtenstein is part of the Crypto Valley, Switzerland's hub for blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation which is situated around Zurich and Zug.
TORONTO, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Black Swan Graphene Inc. ("Black Swan") (or the "Company") (TSXV: SWAN) (OTCQB: BSWGF) (Frankfurt: R96) is pleased to announce a shipment of product to Nationwide Engineering Research & Development ("NERD") for an upcoming concrete pour in the United Kingdom. A picture of the shipment is available below.

This commercial shipment follows the announcement of a partnership between Black Swan, NERD, and Arup Group Limited, aimed at providing an integrated supply chain and a turnkey solution to the concrete and construction industries (see press release dated March 27, 2023).

The upcoming concrete pour will use Black Swan's graphene product in a total of 180 tonnes of concrete for the construction of an industrial park near Redruth, Southwest England. The industrial park will offer 14 industrial units ranging from 2,500 and 3,500 sq ft, with the graphene-enhanced concrete being used for the external concrete aprons. This is the second time this developer has used the technology provided by NERD, having previously used it in the construction of an industrial park in Warminster, approximately 170 km west of London, United Kingdom.

Rob Hibberd, President and Chief Executive Officer of NERD, commented: "We're thrilled to announce another commercial concrete pour using our innovative graphene enhanced Concretene. This endeavor not only speaks to the positive response and interest in our proposition but is yet another opportunity to monitor the long-term real-life performance of our product. We look forward to continuing to innovate and collaborate with our partners to deliver cutting-edge solutions to the construction industry."

Black Swan ships product to NERD on Friday May 5th, 2023, for upcoming concrete pour. (CNW Group/Black Swan Graphene Inc)

Corporate Matter

The Company has granted, to a recently hired officer, 500,000 stock options exercisable at a price of CA$0.17 per share for a period of five years from their date of grant (May 2, 2023). These options are subject to vesting as to one third immediately upon grant, and one third on each of the first and second anniversary of the grant.

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About Black Swan Graphene Inc.

Black Swan is focused on the large-scale production and commercialization of patented high-performance and low-cost graphene products aimed at several industrial sectors, including concrete, polymers, Li-ion batteries, and others, which are expected to require large volumes of graphene. Black Swan aims to leverage the low cost and green hydroelectricity of the province of Quebec as well as the proximity of the province's emerging graphite industry in order to establish an integrated supply chain, reduce overall costs, and accelerate the deployment of graphene usage. On March 27, 2023, Black Swan, Nationwide Engineering Research and Development Ltd. ("NERD") and Arup Group Limited ("Arup") announced strategic partnerships, establishing a fully integrated supply chain and providing a turnkey solution for the construction and concrete industries. Arup is a multinational engineering consultancy headquartered in London, United Kingdom, with 18,000 experts working across 140 countries. Black Swan's graphene processing technology was developed by Thomas Swan & Co. Ltd ("Thomas Swan") over the last decade. Thomas Swan is a United Kingdom-based global chemicals manufacturer, with a century-long track record and has been at the forefront of graphene innovation.

For more information, please visit: www.blackswangraphene.com

Black Swan Graphene Inc. on behalf of the Board of Directors

Simon Marcotte, CFA, President & Chief Executive Officer

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 Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to the TSXV listing, risk related to the failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with the industry; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of a scoping and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity prices fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. 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. Furthermore, performance results of graphene products as additives can vary widely depending on type and the specificity of the target material, the specifics of the graphene product itself, including but not limited to, carbon purity, particle size, surface agent, dispersion behavior, and application and usage methods. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements and initial test results. These forward-looking statements and test results are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

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SOURCE Black Swan Graphene Inc

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Nonprofit health plan earns gold level for maintaining winning status four consecutive years

OAKLAND, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Shield of California has been selected as a 2023 US Best Managed Company Gold Standard honoree. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams. Gold Standard winners are Best Managed Companies that have maintained their winning status for four years.

Blue Shield of California Makes the 2023 Best Managed Companies list for the fourth consecutive year, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal.

The 2023 designees are private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people, fostering a dynamic culture, and strong financial management. Designees propelled their businesses forward and remained true to their purpose and values by investing in their people, creating advantage through digital transformation, taking measurable action on sustainability, and demonstrating their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

"Everyone at Blue Shield of California contributed to earning this recognition," said Mike Stuart, senior vice president and CFO at Blue Shield of California. "It is thanks to the dedication of Blue Shield's more than 7,500 employees that we were named a US Best Managed Company for four consecutive years. We're honored to be one of the 17 gold standard winners recognized this year."

Applicants are evaluated and selected by an independent panel of judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture, and governance/financial management. The winners join honorees from more than 46 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

Blue Shield of California was one of 56 winners, one of only 17 gold standard honorees, and one of four winners in the life sciences/health care category. To see the full list of 2023 honorees, click here .

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with more than 4.8 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $24 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $97 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last three years to have an impact on California communities.

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For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices  strategy, execution, culture and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

CONTACT: Mark Seelig

Blue Shield of California

510-607-2359

media@blueshieldca.com

Blue Shield of California Logo (PRNewsfoto/Blue Shield of California)

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SOURCE Blue Shield of California
HSINCHU, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Medical experts from Bolivia and Taiwan recently joined forces to explore the latest technological advancements in surgical navigation robots and their potential to position Bolivia as a leader in robotic neurosurgery. During the largest robotic surgery online meeting, "The Future of Robotic Surgery," over 400 medical specialists gathered to participate in a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights.

The online meeting was held on May, 3rd, titled "The Future of Robotic Surgery,"

The experts' discussions highlighted the tremendous potential of surgical navigation robots to enhance patient outcomes, reduce surgical time, and improve precision and flexibility for neurosurgeons. The engagement between medical experts from Bolivia and Taiwan demonstrated the significance of global collaboration in advancing medical Technology and improving patient care.

Led by Dr. Bozorg Zonneveld von Brunn from the Clinica de las Americas in Bolivia, a new hospital equipped with the latest Technologies, Dr. Jerry Chen, the CEO of Brain Navi Biotechnology from Taiwan, and Dr. Guo, Jeng Hong, a neurosurgeon from China Medical University Hospital in Taiwan, the meeting provided a unique platform for experts to share their clinical experience with surgical navigation robots. Nelson Farfan Espada, the host of this event, represents Ztarkbond GmbH and facilitates the introduction of this new technology into Bolivia. The university's Dean of the Faculty of Engineering sponsored the event together with Mr. Luis Foianini from a prominent Bolivian university as part of the alternative path strategy. The presentations highlighted the potential of NaoTrac, a neurosurgical navigation robot from Brain Navi Biotechnology that has been certified by CE and local government, to help more patients and save more lives in Bolivia, demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in advancing medical Technology and improving patient care. In Taiwan, three medical centers are equipped with NaoTrac to assist neurosurgeons in saving lives. Dr. Jerry Chen introduced the NaoTrac technology and its benefits for neurosurgeons in Taiwan. At the same time Dr. Guo shared some exceptional cases where the assistance of NaoTrac improved surgical precision and reduced surgical time, benefiting patient recovery, such as ICH (intracerebral hemorrhages) and the other application like brainstem tumor biopsy and stem-cell implantation.

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Bolivia has highly qualified neurosurgeons; the most significant development for Bolivia's medical community is the plan to create a robotic educational training center. This center is a vital resource for medical professionals, allowing them to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to work with advanced robotic technologies like NaoTrac and the other surgical navigation robots. The center has the potential to become the first in South America, positioning Bolivia as a leading country in the region to use advanced surgical robots. With continued collaboration between medical experts worldwide, Bolivia is poised to become an international leader in robotic neurosurgery, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and outcomes.

(PRNewsfoto/Brain Navi Biotechnology Co., Ltd.)

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SOURCE Brain Navi Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
(Bloomberg) -- Brookfield Infrastructure Partners is considering the sale of a minority stake in its telecommunications tower business in India, according to people familiar with the matter.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Canadian investment firm is working with an adviser to sell a stake of more than 10% in the infrastructure investment trust that holds Summit DigiTel, the people said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private. A deal would satisfy regulatory requirements around the so-called InvIT structure, the people added.

Investors including pension funds have shown preliminary interest in acquiring the stake, as they seek stable returns and a chance to increase their exposure to the South Asian economy, the people said.

Brookfield and its institutional partners completed their acquisition of the telecom tower unit of billionaire Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Industries Ltd. for about $3.4 billion in 2020.

Deliberations are preliminary and Brookfield may decide against pursuing a sale, the people said. A representative for Brookfield declined to comment.

Summit DigiTel counts a portfolio of more than 151,000 telecom sites, making it one of Indias biggest digital infrastructure companies, according to its website. Reliance Jio is an anchor tenant of the portfolio under a 30-year agreement. Summit DigiTel is owned by Data Infrastructure Trust, an InvIT sponsored by Brookfield, the website shows.

American Tower Corp. is similarly weighing strategic options for its India business including the sale of an equity stake, the company said in an earnings call in February. The real estate investment trust bought about 20,000 towers in the country for about $1.2 billion in 2017.

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--With assistance from Vinicy Chan.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev will pay an official visit to China on May 17-19, Azernews reports with reference to the Press Office of the President of Kazakhstan.

In China's Xi'an, the President of Kazakhstan will hold talks with the President of the People's Republic of China Xi Jinping.

The two countries' leaders will consider further strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding cooperation in trade, economics, investment, transport and logistics, and energy, as well as deepening cultural and humanitarian ties.

Tokayev will also take part in the China-Central Asia Summit and meet with the heads of major Chinese companies.
CEO Olivier Roussy Newton to discuss BTQ's innovative approach to quantum-safe encryption technology, which has the potential to revolutionize data security in blockchain applications and adjacent industries, including finance, healthcare, and government.

VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - BTQ Technologies Inc. (NEO: BTQ) (OTCQX: BTQQF) (FSE: NG3), a global quantum technology company focused on securing mission critical networks, is pleased to invite investors and other interested parties to attend an upcoming interview with Radius Research.

BTQ Logo (CNW Group/BTQ Technologies Corp.)

Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO of BTQ, and Martin Gagel of Radius will discuss the importance of quantum-safe encryption technology in ensuring the security of blockchain networks and other mission-critical systems. BTQ's COO, Nicolas Roussy Newton will also participate in the webinar, and provide deeper insight into BTQ's innovative approach to quantum-safe encryption technology, which has the potential to revolutionize data security in blockchain applications and adjacent industries, including finance, insurance, healthcare, and government. This webinar promises to provide a deeper understanding into the next generation of data security and cryptography, and the impact of quantum computing globally.

The webinar will be a live, interactive online event where attendees are invited to ask the Company questions in real-time following the interview. An archived webcast will be made available for those who cannot join the event live on the day of the webinar.

Event: Radius Research Pitch, Deep Dive and Q&A with BTQ Technologies Corp.

Presentation Date & Time: Wednesday, May 10 at 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT

Webcast Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/3116831399050/WN_8sLyoWKaSAiJEIcIjksqMw

If investors in attendance at either conference are interested in booking 1-1 meetings with the team, please reach out to investors@btq.com .

About Market Radius Research

Market Radius Research provides individual investors access to in-depth CEO and management interviews with deep-dive, institutional level discussion and Q&A. Market Radius' host Martin Gagel is a former top-ranked sell-side technology and special situations analyst.

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About BTQ

BTQ was founded by a group of post-quantum cryptographers with an interest in addressing the urgent security threat posed by large-scale universal quantum computers. With the support of leading research institutes and universities, BTQ is combining software and hardware to safeguard critical networks using unique post-quantum services and solutions.

Connect with BTQ: Website | LinkedIn

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Olivier Roussy Newton

CEO, Director

For further information:

E: desk@btq.com

Bill Mitoulas

Investor Relations

T: +1.416.479.9547

E: bill@btq.com

Neither the NEO nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE BTQ Technologies Corp.

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Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, AltynGold fair value estimate is UK1.36

With UK1.11 share price, AltynGold appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

How far off is AltynGold plc (LON:ALTN) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

See our latest analysis for AltynGold

The Model

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$1.96m US$2.73m US$3.49m US$4.18m US$4.78m US$5.28m US$5.68m US$6.00m US$6.27m US$6.48m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ 55.60% Est @ 39.29% Est @ 27.88% Est @ 19.89% Est @ 14.29% Est @ 10.38% Est @ 7.64% Est @ 5.72% Est @ 4.37% Est @ 3.43% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 11% US$1.8 US$2.2 US$2.5 US$2.7 US$2.8 US$2.8 US$2.7 US$2.6 US$2.4 US$2.2

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$25m

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After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (1.2%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 11%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$6.5m (1 + 1.2%)  (11% 1.2%) = US$65m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$65m ( 1 + 11%)10= US$22m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is US$47m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of UK1.1, the company appears about fair value at a 19% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

The Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at AltynGold as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 11%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.441. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for AltynGold

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Opportunity

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine ALTN's earnings prospects.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for ALTN.

Next Steps:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For AltynGold, we've put together three pertinent factors you should further research:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with AltynGold , and understanding these should be part of your investment process. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! Other Environmentally-Friendly Companies: Concerned about the environment and think consumers will buy eco-friendly products more and more? Browse through our interactive list of companies that are thinking about a greener future to discover some stocks you may not have thought of!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Key Insights

The projected fair value for XRF Scientific is AU$1.30 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of AU$1.25 suggests XRF Scientific is potentially trading close to its fair value

XRF Scientific's peers seem to be trading at a higher discount to fair value based onthe industry average of 20%

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of XRF Scientific Limited (ASX:XRF) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

View our latest analysis for XRF Scientific

The Method

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$4.30m AU$7.40m AU$8.90m AU$10.0m AU$10.9m AU$11.7m AU$12.4m AU$12.9m AU$13.4m AU$13.8m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 12.45% Est @ 9.30% Est @ 7.10% Est @ 5.56% Est @ 4.48% Est @ 3.72% Est @ 3.19% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.9% AU$4.0 AU$6.4 AU$7.1 AU$7.4 AU$7.5 AU$7.4 AU$7.3 AU$7.0 AU$6.8 AU$6.5

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$67m

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The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.0%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 7.9%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032  (1 + g)  (r  g) = AU$14m (1 + 2.0%)  (7.9% 2.0%) = AU$238m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$238m ( 1 + 7.9%)10= AU$112m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is AU$179m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of AU$1.2, the company appears about fair value at a 4.6% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

The Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at XRF Scientific as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.9%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.997. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for XRF Scientific

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Machinery market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Australian market.

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by cash flow.

Looking Ahead:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. For XRF Scientific, we've put together three additional aspects you should further research:

Financial Health: Does XRF have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for XRF's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Calibre Mining Corp.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calibre Mining Corp. (TSX: CXB; OTCQX: CXBMF) (Calibre or the Company) announces financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2023 (Q1 2023). Consolidated Financial Statements and Management Discussion & Analysis for the three months ending March 31, 2023 can be found at www.sedar.com and the Companys website, www.calibremining.com. All figures are expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated.



Q1 2023 HIGHLIGHTS

Record gold sales of 65,770 ounces grossing $126.9 million in revenue at an average realized gold price 1 of $1,891/oz;

Consolidated Total Cash Costs (TCC) 1 of $1,164/oz; Nicaragua $1,131/oz and Nevada $1,331/oz;

Consolidated All-In Sustaining Costs (AISC) 1 of $1,302/oz; Nicaragua $1,241/oz and Nevada $1,363/oz;

Generated $26.7 million in cash flow from operations;

Cash on hand of $60.8 million as at March 31, 2023 2 ;

Net income of $16.4 million or $0.04 per share;

Consolidated Mineral Reserves increased 370% since acquisition in 2019, to 1,346,000 ounces gold (see press release dated February 14, 2023);

The ore transport team attained an average daily rate of 2,294 tonnes of ore per day to the Libertad mill from the Pavon Norte, Pavon Central and Limon mines, an 11% increase over the Q1 2022 average ore delivery rate;

Delivered high-grade ore from Pavon Central mine ahead of schedule, averaging 1,000 tonnes per day at 7.39 g/t gold in February to the Libertad mill (see press release dated March 15, 2023);

Continued expansion of the high-grade gold discovery at Panteon North and along the VTEM Gold Corridor within the Limon Complex, intersecting 17.45 g/t gold over 4.1 metres (see press release dated March 21, 2023);

New discovery at the Pan Mine in Nevada indicates the potential for resource expansion to the south (see press release dated January 17, 2023)

Phase 1 and 2 drill results from the Golden Eagle Project in Washington State confirm consistent gold mineralization over broad widths, reinforcing the potential of this 2 million ounce Mineral Resource; Metallurgical testing to explore for future gold extraction potential and recovery methods has commenced (see press releases dated January 24, 2023 and April 12, 2023); and

Commenced mining from the Guapinol open pit at Eastern Borosi in April, utilising surplus capacity at the Libertad mill for processing (see press release dated April 18, 2023).



Story continues

Darren Hall, President and Chief Executive Officer of Calibre, stated: Calibre had an excellent start to the year, responsibly delivering record gold production of 65,750 ounces. During the quarter we continued to solidify our position as a growing mid-tier gold producer, expanding our hub and spoke operating strategy to include the new high-grade open pit mine at Pavon Central. During Q2 we began mining at our new Eastern Borosi open pit and expect initial deliveries to Libertad in Q2. Cash generation is expected to accelerate during the second half of the year with grade-driven increased production achieving consolidated production guidance of 250,000 to 275,000 ounces and significantly increasing our cash position by year end.





CONSOLIDATED RESULTS SUMMARY  Q1 2023 Consolidated Financial Results

$'000 (except per share and per ounce amounts) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Revenue $ 126,913 $ 100,852 Cost of sales, including depreciation and amortization (94,660 ) (69,317 ) Mine operating income $ 32,253 $ 31,535 Net income $ 16,409 $ 11,701 Net income per share (basic) $ 0.04 $ 0.03 Net income per share (fully diluted) $ 0.04 $ 0.03 Adjusted net income3 $ 16,198 $ 16,441 Adjusted net income per share (basic) $ 0.04 $ 0.04 Cash provided by operating activities $ 26,747 $ 18,255 Capital investment in mine development and PPE $ 21,040 $ 14,101 Capital investment in exploration $ 5,562 $ 12,526 Gold ounces produced 65,750 51,898 Gold ounces sold 65,770 52,487 Average realized gold price ($/oz)1 $ 1,891 $ 1,897 Total Cash Costs ($/oz)1 $ 1,164 $ 1,060 AISC ($/oz)1 $ 1,302 $ 1,199





Operating Results NICARAGUA Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Ore mined (t) 483,260 352,266 Ore milled (t) 483,089 401,214 Grade (g/t Au) 3.63 3.81 Recovery (%) 93.1 89.9 Gold produced (ounces) 54,997 42,897 Gold sold (ounces) 54,995 42,918



Gold production in Nicaragua increased 28% in Q1 2023 vs Q1 2022 driven by higher tonnes milled, the Company expects grades to increase through 2023 as high-grade ore sources come online.





NEVADA Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Ore mined (t) 1,288,593 974,305 Ore placed on leach pad (t) 1,303,832 1,006,540 Grade (g/t Au) 0.38 0.47 Gold produced (ounces) 10,753 9,001 Gold sold (ounces) 10,775 9,569



CONSOLIDATED Q1 2023 FINANCIAL REVIEW

Total Cash Costs and AISC for Q1 2023 were $1,164 per ounce and $1,302 per ounce respectively, in line with expectations for the period. The higher production cost quarter over quarter was due to additional tonnes moved, milled, and transported through the hub and spoke network.

Expenses and Net Income

For the three months ended March 31, 2023, corporate G&A was $2.7 million compared to $3.1 million for the same period in 2022. Corporate administration was slightly lower than the comparable 2022 period due to less costs associated with salaries and professional fees.

Share-based compensation for Q1 2023 was $1.7 million. The increase in expenses over the prior year quarter relates to the revaluation of cash settled RSUs and PSUs.

Total finance expense for Q1 2023 was $1.0 million compared to $0.5 million the same period in 2022.

Current and deferred income tax expense was $10.0 million during Q1 2023, compared to the same period of 2022 of $8.2 million. Q1 2023 saw an increase in current and deferred tax expenses when compared to Q1 2022, from higher pre-tax income partially offset by a lower overall tax rate.



As a result of the above, net income per share in Q1 2023 was $0.04 for both basic and diluted.

2023 GUIDANCE

CONSOLIDATED NICARAGUA



NEVADA Gold Production/Sales (ounces) 250,000  275,000 210,000  230,000 40,000  45,000 Total Cash Costs ($/ounce)1 $1,000 - $1,100 $950 - $1,050 $1,300 - $1,400 AISC ($/ounce)1 $1,175 - $1,275 $1,100 - $1,200 $1,350 - $1,450 Growth Capital ($ million) $55 - $65 Exploration Capital ($ million) $25 - $30



Since acquiring the Nicaraguan assets from B2Gold in October 2019 and Fiore Gold in 2022, the Company has consistently re-invested into the business with demonstrated results of strong production, reserve growth, discovery of new deposits, and identification of new targets, which positions Calibre to unlock additional mill feed sources and grow production both in Nicaragua and Nevada. Calibre continues to invest in new mine development including Pavon Central and Eastern Borosi and a discovery and resource expansion 100,000 metre drilling program, underway in Nevada and Nicaragua.

Calibres 2023 production guidance reflects grade-drive production growth of approximately 20% over 2022 yet 2023 Total Cash Cost and All-in sustaining costs per ounce is anticipated to be in-line or better than 2022 actuals. Calibres 2023 growth capital and exploration capital is budgeted to be 30% and 40% less, respectively, than 2022, setting the Company up for a strong free cash flow year.

Growth and sustaining capital are anticipated to be higher throughout the first half of the year to unlock value at the new high-grade Pavon Central and Eastern Borosi open pit mines. Growth also includes underground development, Limon Norte and Tigra waste stripping, and land acquisition.

Q1 2023 FINANCIAL RESULTS CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

First quarter financial results will be released after market close on Monday, May 8, 2023, and management will be hosting a conference call on Tuesday, May 9 to discuss the results and outlook in more detail.

Date: Tuesday, May 9, 2023 Time: 10:00 a.m. (ET) Webcast Link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/77jbhopx

Instructions for obtaining conference call dial-in numbers:



All parties must register at the link below to participate in Calibres Q1 2023 conference call. Register by clicking https://register.vevent.com/register/BIcbb8f6f89d254adb83115fe6e956e5f3 and completing the online registration form. Once registered you will receive the dial-in numbers and PIN number for input at the time of the call.



The live webcast and registration link can be accessed here and at www.calibremining.com under the Events and Media section under the Investors tab. The live audio webcast will be archived and available for replay for 12 months after the event at www.calibremining.com. Presentation slides that will accompany the conference call will be made available in the Investors section of the Calibre website under Presentations prior to the conference call.

Qualified Person

Darren Hall, MAusIMM President and Chief Executive Officer of Calibre Mining Corp. is a qualified person as set out under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Darren Hall

Darren Hall

President and Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Ryan King

Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & IR

T: 604.628.1010

E: calibre@calibremining.com

W: www.calibremining.com



About Calibre Mining Corp.

Calibre is a Canadian-listed, Americas focused, growing mid-tier gold producer with a strong pipeline of development and exploration opportunities across Nevada and Washington in the USA, and Nicaragua. Calibre is focused on delivering sustainable value for shareholders, local communities and all stakeholders through responsible operations and a disciplined approach to growth. With a strong balance sheet, a proven management team, strong operating cash flow, accretive development projects and district-scale exploration opportunities Calibre will unlock significant value.

Notes:

(1) NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES



The Company believes that investors use certain non-IFRS measures as indicators to assess gold mining companies, specifically Total Cash Costs per Ounce and All-In Sustaining Costs per Ounce. In the gold mining industry, these are common performance measures but do not have any standardized meaning. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate the Companys performance and ability to generate cash flow. Accordingly, it is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Total Cash Costs per Ounce of Gold : Total cash costs include mine site operating costs such as mining, processing, and local administrative costs (including stock-based compensation related to mine operations), royalties, production taxes, mine standby costs and current inventory write downs, if any. Production costs are exclusive of depreciation and depletion, reclamation, capital, and exploration costs. Total cash costs per gold ounce are net of by-product silver sales and are divided by gold ounces sold to arrive at a per ounce figure.

All-In Sustaining Costs per Ounce of Gold : A performance measure that reflects all the expenditures that are required to produce an ounce of gold from current operations. While there is no standardized meaning of the measure across the industry, the Companys definition is derived from the AISC definition as set out by the World Gold Council in its guidance dated June 27, 2013 and November 16, 2018. The World Gold Council is a non-regulatory, non-profit organization established in 1987 whose members include global senior mining companies. The Company believes that this measure will be useful to external users in assessing operating performance and the ability to generate free cash flow from current operations. The Company defines AISC as the sum of total cash costs (per above), sustaining capital (capital required to maintain current operations at existing levels), capital lease repayments, corporate general and administrative expenses, exploration expenditures designed to increase resource confidence at producing mines, amortization of asset retirement costs and rehabilitation accretion related to current operations. AISC excludes capital expenditures for significant improvements at existing operations deemed to be expansionary in nature, exploration and evaluation related to resource growth, rehabilitation accretion and amortization not related to current operations, financing costs, debt repayments, and taxes. Total all-in sustaining costs are divided by gold ounces sold to arrive at a per ounce figure.

Average Realized Price per Ounce Sold : Average realized price per ounce sold is a common performance measure that does not have any standardized meaning. The most directly comparable measure prepared in accordance with IFRS is revenue from gold sales.

(2) MARCH 31, 2023 CASH POSITION



Includes restricted cash of $2.5 million see note 13 in the Condensed Interim Financial Statements for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2023 and 2022.

(3) ADJUSTED NET INCOME



Adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share  basic exclude a number of temporary or one-time items described in the following table, which provides a reconciliation of adjusted net income to the consolidated financial statements:

(in thousands  except per share amounts) Q1 2023 Q1 2022 Net income $ 16,409 $ 11,701 Addbacks (net of tax impacts): Transaction costs 82 4,470 Nevada inventory write down (616 ) - Mineral property write-off 323 - Adjusted net income $ 16,198 $ 16,441 Weighted average number of shares outstanding 452,067 444,599 Adjusted net income (loss) per share - basic $ 0.04 $ 0.04



Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release includes certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond Calibres control. For a listing of risk factors applicable to the Company, please refer to Calibres annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2022, and its management discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the year ended December 31, 2022 all available on the Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect Calibres forward-looking statements such as potential sanctions implemented as a result of the United States Executive Order 13851 dated October 24, 2022.

Calibres forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. Calibre does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or managements beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.




Capitec Bank Holdings Limited (JSE:CPI) shareholders might be concerned after seeing the share price drop 10% in the last quarter. But over three years, the returns would have left most investors smiling In fact, the company's share price bested the return of its market index in that time, posting a gain of 96%.

With that in mind, it's worth seeing if the company's underlying fundamentals have been the driver of long term performance, or if there are some discrepancies.

View our latest analysis for Capitec Bank Holdings

To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time.

Capitec Bank Holdings was able to grow its EPS at 16% per year over three years, sending the share price higher. In comparison, the 25% per year gain in the share price outpaces the EPS growth. So it's fair to assume the market has a higher opinion of the business than it did three years ago. It is quite common to see investors become enamoured with a business, after a few years of solid progress.

The graphic below depicts how EPS has changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image).

We like that insiders have been buying shares in the last twelve months. Having said that, most people consider earnings and revenue growth trends to be a more meaningful guide to the business. This free interactive report on Capitec Bank Holdings' earnings, revenue and cash flow is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further.

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. As it happens, Capitec Bank Holdings' TSR for the last 3 years was 105%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return.

Story continues

A Different Perspective

Investors in Capitec Bank Holdings had a tough year, with a total loss of 19% (including dividends), against a market gain of about 8.2%. Even the share prices of good stocks drop sometimes, but we want to see improvements in the fundamental metrics of a business, before getting too interested. Longer term investors wouldn't be so upset, since they would have made 14%, each year, over five years. If the fundamental data continues to indicate long term sustainable growth, the current sell-off could be an opportunity worth considering. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Capitec Bank Holdings better, we need to consider many other factors. For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Capitec Bank Holdings that you should be aware of before investing here.

If you like to buy stocks alongside management, then you might just love this free list of companies. (Hint: insiders have been buying them).

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on South African 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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(Bloomberg) -- In China, one of the worlds most active equity markets, stocks that change hands most often are now the ones that are punishing investors.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Modeling a long-short strategy that favors the CSI 300 Indexs most liquid shares would have lost traders almost 11% in April. Thats the worst performance since the benchmark of Shanghai and Shenzhen shares was launched in 2005, according to a Bloomberg function that screens indexes for quantitative factors.

High trading volumes are usually prized by quantitative investors because it makes it easier to enter and exit trades quickly. Rather than pick stocks based on their earnings or dividends, such funds typically rely on complex and proprietary mathematical models to generate returns. Instead of buy-and-hold, quants are known for their high-frequency trading systems that are well-suited for high turnover markets like China, where trading activity has surpassed 1 trillion yuan ($145 billion) every day since March.

Formidable obstacles currently face international investors wanting to hedge or short yuan-denominated shares, making long-short strategies difficult to deploy. They can use a stock link with Hong Kong, though only certain members of the citys exchange can borrow and lend shares through that program. Short selling gained a bad reputation in China after it was partly blamed for the markets spectacular crash in 2015, with many leveraged investors betting against the whole market via index futures.

Right now the top-performing quant strategy in China is buying value, or betting on the cheapest CSI 300 stocks while shorting the priciest. That factor had its best month since the stock bubble in 2015, with a 13% return in April.

Story continues

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
President Xi Jinping will chair the two-day inaugural China-Central Asia summit starting May 18, the Chinese foreign ministry announced on Monday.

Xi's counterparts from the five Central Asian states - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan - will attend the summit in the northwestern Chinese city of Xian, the ministry said.

The highly anticipated "C+C5" summit is seen as a Beijing-led mission to boost strategic cooperation with Central Asia on a raft of issues, including its Belt and Road Initiative and efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

At a foreign ministers' meeting in April ahead of the heads of state summit, China's Qin Gang had said Beijing was willing to work with Central Asia to push for a resolution to the Ukraine crisis.

Qin's announcement came just one day after a long-awaited phone call between Xi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky - against the backdrop of criticism from Western nations that China was failing to condemn the February 2022 Russian invasion.

Qin Gang chairs a China-Central Asia foreign ministers' meeting in Xian on April 27. Photo: Xinhua alt=Qin Gang chairs a China-Central Asia foreign ministers' meeting in Xian on April 27. Photo: Xinhua>

The five Central Asian countries were once a part of the former Soviet Union, and have long been considered key areas of Russia's post-Cold War sphere of influence.

But they have been wary of supporting Moscow's aggression in Ukraine - also a former Soviet republic - and have either abstained or not voted on United Nations General Assembly resolutions pertaining to the conflict.

Western sanctions on Russia and global geopolitical headwinds have also created an economic vacuum in the region that Beijing is working to fill through its belt and road plan.

Story continues

At the April foreign ministers' meeting, Qin had also pledged to deepen economic ties with Central Asia and make it "the pure land of win-win cooperation" instead of "a war zone of geopolitical contest".

Central Asia has long been a pivotal trading corridor for China, dating back to the original Silk Road during the Han dynasty some 2,200 years ago.

Xian, the venue for both the foreign ministers' meeting and the upcoming C+C5 summit, was the starting point of that ancient Silk Road, a network of Eurasian trade routes that started in the second century BC.

Central Asia has gained increasing significance because of its rich natural resource deposits and proximity to China's far western province of Xinjiang. The mainly Muslim minority region was also a key part of the ancient Silk Road and traditionally enjoyed close ties with Central Asia.

In 2022, trade between China and the Central Asian countries reached US$70.2 billion, a record high. China's foreign direct investment in the five countries was nearly US$15 billion at the end of 2022, according to the commerce ministry.

Since its launch nearly 10 years ago, China's belt and road strategy has brought major infrastructure projects such as railways, highways, power stations, and natural gas pipelines to the largely underdeveloped region.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
HANOI (Reuters) - Chinese automaker BYD Co. plans to expand into electric vehicles manufacturing and assembly in Vietnam, according to a Vietnamese government statement citing the company's chair.

Reuters in January exclusively reported that the Xian-based EV maker had plans to open a plant in Vietnam to produce car parts, with the aim to export components to an assembly plant planned in neighbouring Thailand.

In a government statement released after the meeting between BYD's founder and chair Wang Chuanfu and Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on May 5, Wang said he expected Vietnam to create favourable conditions for BYD to complete investment procedures.

The statement did not mention how much new investment BYD would top up for the expansion.

BYD, which currently runs a factory to assemble electronic devices and parts in the northern Vietnamese province of Phu Tho, also proposed forming a local supply chain, according to the government statement released on Friday.

The presence of BYD would pose a direct challenge to VinFast, a Vietnamese EV maker that began selling cars in 2019 and plans to expand in the United States and Europe.

Last September, BYD, backed by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, announced that it would build an EV assembly plant in Thailand with annual capacity of 150,000 cars from 2024.

(Reporting by Phuong Nguyen; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
BEIJING (Reuters) - Chinese real estate brokerage agencies need to implement reasonable reductions to fees for housing transactions and leasing services to promote healthy development of the sector, the housing regulator said on Monday.

Some real estate brokers in recent years "have charged excessive, unclear and bound fees, and misused clients' personal information, which has increased the burden on parties to transactions and infringed their legal rights", the regulator said in a notice.

Real estate brokers must not abuse a dominant market position to charge unfairly high prices for broking services.

Brokerage agencies also are encouraged to apply different pricing depending on the size of transaction, so that the higher the price, the lower the service fee.

The industry has grown increasingly important, with large numbers of property transactions relying on real estate agencies, said analyst Zhang Dawei at property company Centaline, adding that some agents are taking advantage of their scale to increase fees.

"The notice is conducive to the healthy development of the industry. However, it is a guiding document; the specific impact on the market will depend on implementation by each city," Zhang said.

(Reporting by Liangping Gao and Ryan Woo; Editing by David Goodman)
(Bloomberg) -- Nineteen months after China banned crypto, more signs have emerged that its citizens continue to buy and sell digital assets.

Most Read from Bloomberg

These glimpses of their trading activity support suspicions that some of Chinas 1.4 billion people flout the prohibition Beijing imposed in September 2021 as they hunt for alternatives to investments like property and stocks.

A shadowy role for Chinese demand adds to the difficulty of parsing the outlook for digital-asset markets, which have partially revived this year from a 2022 crash pockmarked with bankruptcies like that of the FTX crypto exchange.

There is even speculation the ban on the mainland could be loosened  though there are no indications of that happening  after Hong Kong pivoted to a pro-crypto stance to woo investment, a step that won quiet backing from Beijing.

The evidence of ongoing Chinese appetite for tokens comes from varied sources, including FTXs creditor profile, citizens who said they used crypto platforms and depictions by industry insiders of workarounds to Beijings ban.

Hard to Eliminate

Essentially, bans dont work, said Caroline Malcolm, global head of public policy at Chainalysis, which specializes in tracking digital-asset transactions. The decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies and the fact that they can be transferred peer-to-peer and traded on global exchanges make it difficult for any government to completely eliminate them.

US bankruptcy filings for FTX, which collapsed in November last year, show Chinese users accounted for 8% of the exchanges customers. FTX advisers have tallied more than 9 million customer accounts overall, while claims from creditors amount to at least $11.6 billion.

Story continues

Jack Ding, a partner with crypto regulations specialist Duan & Duan Law Firm, said he represents six Chinese creditors with a combined $10 million of FTX claims. They are part of a committee for foreign FTX customers, he said.

Theoretically, crypto trading is outlawed for Chinese at home and abroad but its hard to enforce, Ding said. Often its about compliance systems at exchanges and whether theyll filter out Chinese passport holders, he added.

Beijing cracked down on digital assets over concerns about money laundering, currency outflows and the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining. The likes of the Binance, OKX and FTX exchanges had tapped risk-loving investors in China, once the worlds biggest market for Bitcoin trading, to boost growth.

Compliance Challenge

Crypto platforms now try to block Chinese Internet Protocol addresses but virtual private networks can defeat such attempts by masking locations.

Interviews with Chinese investors point to the compliance challenge. Four said they had traded on the Binance digital-asset platform, and a fifth said hed also used OKX, after Beijings prohibition. Binance is the largest crypto exchange while OKX ranks at No. 2, CoinGecko data on 24-hour volumes show.

The five spoke in part out of frustration over current or earlier suspensions of their accounts. Four said they lived in mainland China and had passed know-your-customer procedures using Chinese identification.

OKX declined to comment on the issue. A spokesperson for Binance said the company doesnt operate in mainland China or have any technology, including servers or data, based there.

Great Firewall

Following the September 2021 ban, the Binance platform, including the website and mobile application, has been blocked behind the Great Firewall, the Binance spokesperson said, referring to the system China uses to sever its internet from the rest of the world.

A sixth Chinese investor, David Jin, said he lives in Silicon Valley and has had $8 million of crypto frozen on Binance since July at the behest of police in central Chongqing city in China. The police were probing tokens allegedly linked to illegal online casinos, Jin added, while denying involvement.

A Chongqing police officer surnamed Mu, whos in charge of the case, didnt respond to numerous requests for comment.

The Binance spokesperson said that the company has a policy of cooperating with lawful information requests and legal inquiries from authorities pertaining to investigations, prosecutions, forfeiture actions and suspicious activities.

Binance reserves the right to reject law enforcement requests that fail legal scrutiny, dont serve a legal purpose or where the investigative approach is flawed, the spokesperson added.

Turning Dominican

In March, Bloomberg News reported that another major crypto exchange, Huobi Global, was giving Chinese users the option of applying for a digital identity with the tiny island nation of Dominica. Once on-boarded, their app profile shows them as Dominican citizens, according to people familiar with the matter, who asked not be identified discussing sensitive matters.

Huobi has said that it doesnt operate in China and that Chinese Internet Protocol addresses are strictly prohibited from accessing the platform, and that new customers are from anywhere but China.

Huobi has exited the Chinese market and barred Chinese users from signing up or logging in, the company has said.

The Peoples Bank of China, which announced the digital-asset ban in September 2021 when it said all crypto-related transactions are illegal, didnt immediately respond to request for a comment on the signs that Chinese citizens continue to trade virtual assets.

Since the prohibition, Chinese regulators havent announced sanctions on any offshore exchange for signing up mainland users.

Malcolm from Chainalysis said the ban has either been ineffective or loosely enforced. The average monthly value of crypto flowing to China did roughly halve in 2022 from a year earlier but still remained sizable at $17 billion, the firm estimates.

If somehow the crypto sector was legalized in China in the future, it would likely lead to a surge in demand for cryptocurrencies, Malcolm said.

--With assistance from Sidhartha Shukla and Yujing Liu.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
A conference dedicated to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was held at Turkey's Igdir University under the co-organization of SOCAR's Baku Higher Oil School (HOS).

According to the report from the school, BHO Rector Elmar Gasimov, Igdir University Rector Mehmet Hakk? Alma, academic staff and students attended the conference, Azernews reports, citing Azertag.

Speaking at the conference, Rector Elmar Gasimov spoke about the "Umid" bridge located on the Azerbaijan-Turkiye border, on the Araz river, and the outstanding services of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in opening the bridge. The rector called this bridge, which was put into use in 1992, "the bridge of the heart": "We came from Nakhchivan to Igdir by land, we crossed the bridge, that is, the "Umid" bridge. That bridge was built in 1992 on the initiative of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and connected Azerbaijan with brother Turkey."

Mehmet Hakk? Alma, rector of I?d?r University, in his speech thanked Azerbaijan for the assistance provided during the earthquake in Turkiye and touched on Azerbaijan-Turkiye brotherly relations. The Rector called the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Turkiye and the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev a historical and significant year.

The conference ended with the signing of a document on joint cooperation between Baku Higher Oil School and Igdir University.
Workers Call on Mayor Lauretti to Stop Stalling, Pay Up

SHELTON, Conn., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters Local 145 members are demanding Mayor Mark Lauretti follow the law and honor their contract, after a state board awarded the Shelton municipal workers an agreement on March 29. The ruling grants workers better pay and working conditions.

International Brotherhood Of Teamsters. (PRNewsFoto/International Brotherhood of Teamsters)

"Mayor Lauretti is breaking the law by refusing to pay Shelton municipal workers their newly awarded wages," said Dennis Novak, Teamsters Local 145 Secretary-Treasurer. "The decision from the Connecticut State Board of Mediation and Arbitration is legally binding. Rather than play games and waste taxpayer dollars, Lauretti needs to pay these essential workers what they are owed."

During the four years that workers have been without a contract, Mayor Lauretti engaged in multiple anti-union actions, including direct bargaining with workers, threatening workers for trying to join the union, and outsourcing union work to nonunion city employees. Lauretti's most recent attempt to bargain directly with workers was a key decision-making factor in the state labor board's ruling for the new contract.

The newly awarded contract covers Teamster members who perform critical services working for the Highway and Bridges Department and includes increased wages, longevity bonuses, work gear stipends, stand-by pay, and additional vacation days.

"Lauretti needs to stop stalling so we can secure strong contracts for the Highway and Bridges Department and the Water Pollution Control facility," Novak said.

The three-year contract covers July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2021, while the contract for July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2024, is still awaiting a decision from the Connecticut State Board of Mediation and Arbitration.

Teamsters Local 145 serves workers in a wide variety of crafts throughout Southwestern Connecticut. For more information, go to teamsters145.org/

Contact:

Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877

mmcquaid@teamster.org

Story continues

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SOURCE Teamsters Local 145
Market Research Future

CNC Machine Market Growth Boost by Rising Demand for mass-production plants, and Automated CNC Technologies Usage across the Globe

New York, US, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  CNC Machine Market Information by Type, End-User, and Region - Forecast till 2030", From 2022 to 2030, the CNC machine market can project healthy growth at a rate of 5%, while attaining a valuation of more than USD 126 billion by 2030.

CNC Machine Market Overview

CNC machines are in charge of computerized system-based machine tool control. Strong Internet of Things adoption is projected to increase product demand. Additionally, the usage of CNC is anticipated to increase across a number of industries with the incorporation of advanced digital technology.

Industries may see increased product uptake as a result of rapid digitization and the move to automated production methods. In addition, growing manufacturing sector expenditures in IoT are anticipated to accelerate the technology's adoption across numerous industries.

CNC Machine Market Competitive Landscape:

The important vendors in the CNC machine industry are

Okuma Corporation (Japan)

Yamazaki Mazak Corporation (Japan)

Amada Co. Ltd. (Japan)

Haas Automation Inc. (US)

Fanuc Corporation (Japan)

Datron AG (Germany)

Amera Seiki (US)

MG Mori (Germany)

Hurco Companies Inc. (US)

Dalian Machine Tool Group (DMTG) Corporation (China)

Shenyang Machine Tool Co. Ltd. (SMTCL)

Among others.





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CNC Machine Market increase the number of products they offer, major market players are spending a lot of money on R&D. This will propel the global sector to even greater heights of expansion. A variety of tactical actions taken by market players, including as the launch of new products, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other companies, are also helping them expand their worldwide reach. The big manufacturers are providing products at fair pricing in an environment where competition is intensifying and costs are rising.

Story continues

CNC Machine Market COVID 19 Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a worldwide lockdown, which has halted the CNC machine production. This slowed the market's expansion over the past few years and did throughout 2022 as well.

Due to the limits put in place by the government to stop the spread of COVID-19, many businesses saw a sharp fall in 2020. This had an impact on the sales of different types of CNC machines.

Due to the limitations placed on industrial operations, the COVID-19 epidemic had a severe impact on manufacturing facilities as well. In order to respond to current crises and establish new ways of working after COVID-19, many manufacturers concentrated on safeguarding their staff, operations, and supply networks. For instance, providing hand sanitizers, upholding social distancing, and ensuring that every employee in the company has had their vaccinations can help to promote the health and safety of the workforce.

Report Scope:

Report Metrics Details Market Size 2030 2030: USD 126 Billion CAGR during 2022-2030 5% CAGR Base Year 2021 Forecast 2022-2030 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Type, End-User Key Market Opportunities Automated CNC Systems Are Popular Key Market Drivers Demand for mass-production plants is increasing



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CNC Machine Market USP Covered:

Market Drivers:

By 2030, it is predicted that there would be a demand for more than 2800 thousand CNC machines. The main driver anticipated to propel the CNC machine market expansion over the forecast period is the rising need for medical devices, electric vehicles (EV), telecom communication equipment, and equipment used in the fabrication of semiconductors. The necessity for five-axis milling and ultra-precision machinery to meet the demands of EV manufacturers is also projected to fuel expansion.

Over the course of the conjectured period, the market for computer numerical control (CNC) machines are anticipated to rise favorably due to automated CNC systems combined with industrial robots featuring simulation software to boost output. Automation of CNC machines is being used primarily to alleviate the present shortage of trained laborers that most sectors are now experiencing. This makes it possible for manufacturing sectors to boost productivity and efficiency. Incumbents in this CNC machine market, such as Fanuc Corporation and OKAMA America Corporation, focus on integrating new technologies with the current product line to meet this demand.

In order to improve customer experience, business administration, and occupational physiology, and support their core business, CNC machine companies are concentrating on creating novel and creative ways to make facility assets and services relevant and essential. Property management services are customized to meet the short- and long-term financial objectives of property owners. On the basis of a capital plan and operating budget that is zero-based, service and solution providers create strategic property operations plan for their clients. These market players are spending on R&D and using marketing techniques including partnerships and collaborations, mergers and acquisitions, product launches, and developments to increase their market share and attract more customers.

Market Restraints:

In general, CNC equipment is more expensive than manually driven equipment. However, it is predicted that their cost would effectively decline with time. Additionally, producers must do routine maintenance on the high-tech components to preserve the machines' correct operation. Additionally, machinists must receive the proper instruction and become familiar with the technical know-how required to operate this equipment. Therefore, manufacturers are offering numerous training programs to improve the abilities of machinists in order to reduce the impact of restraint.



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CNC Machine Market Segmentation

By Type

The CNC machine market, by type, is divided into milling machines, lathe machines, laser machines, welding machines, grinding machines, winding machines, and others. The CNC lathe machines category had a very high growth rate in 2021, and it is anticipated that this segment would expand at the fastest CAGR over the course of the projection period.

By End User

Construction equipment, power & energy, industrial, automotive, aerospace & defense, and others make up the CNC machine market segmentation, with respect to end-users. In 2021, the industrial sector had the biggest market share, and by 2030, it's expected to grow at the fastest rate. The industrial division includes general manufacturing sectors like electronics, healthcare, packaging, and other industries.

CNC Machine Market Regional Insights

Industrialization rates in developing nations like China and India have been rising quickly, propelling the industry. Due to the increasing demand for automobiles in the area, the automotive sector is anticipated to expand significantly throughout the forecast period. Manufacturers have relocated their production facilities in this area as a result of the cheap labor and falling component prices, which is helping the market grow even more. One of the key elements driving adoption in this region is proximity to the supply and demand region.

Additionally, the expansion of manufacturing hubs in the Asia Pacific has boosted the use of computer numerical controls in this industry. The automotive industry, on the other hand, is predicted to have substantial growth in the years to come, mostly as a result of the growth of automated vehicle manufacturing. The metalworking industries, including those in the automotive and manufacturing sectors, are likely to benefit from increased efficiency, time effectiveness, precision, and accuracy given by CNC technology.



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Over the foreseeable period, Europe will prosper admirably as well. Germany, Italy, France, and Central and Eastern European nations are the growth's main drivers. Market expansion will be supported by metalworking companies investing more in automation to boost the productivity of their CNC machine market as a result of the labor shortage.

Related Reports:

CNC Router Market Research Report Information by Type, Product, Application, End Use and Region Forecast till 2030

CNC Tool & Cutter Grinding Machine Market Research Report By Type By Application, By Region  Forecast to 2030

CNC Metal Cutting Machine Tools Market : Product Type, By Application and By Region - Forecast Till 2030

Desktop CNC Machines Market Research Report, Information: by Product Type, Application, and Region  Global Forecast till 2030

About Market Research Future:

Market Research Future (MRFR) is a global market research company that takes pride in its services, offering a complete and accurate analysis regarding diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.

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CONTACT: Market Research Future (Part of Wantstats Research and Media Private Limited) 99 Hudson Street, 5Th Floor New York, NY 10013 United States of America +1 628 258 0071 (US) +44 2035 002 764 (UK) Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Website: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com




One of the best investments we can make is in our own knowledge and skill set. With that in mind, this article will work through how we can use Return On Equity (ROE) to better understand a business. By way of learning-by-doing, we'll look at ROE to gain a better understanding of Computershare Limited (ASX:CPU).

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. In simpler terms, it measures the profitability of a company in relation to shareholder's equity.

View our latest analysis for Computershare

How To Calculate Return On Equity?

ROE can be calculated by using the formula:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Computershare is:

15% = US$313m  US$2.1b (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2022).

The 'return' is the income the business earned over the last year. That means that for every A$1 worth of shareholders' equity, the company generated A$0.15 in profit.

Does Computershare Have A Good Return On Equity?

One simple way to determine if a company has a good return on equity is to compare it to the average for its industry. The limitation of this approach is that some companies are quite different from others, even within the same industry classification. You can see in the graphic below that Computershare has an ROE that is fairly close to the average for the Professional Services industry (16%).

roe

That's neither particularly good, nor bad. While at least the ROE is not lower than the industry, its still worth checking what role the company's debt plays as high debt levels relative to equity may also make the ROE appear high. If true, then it is more an indication of risk than the potential. Our risks dashboardshould have the 2 risks we have identified for Computershare.

Why You Should Consider Debt When Looking At ROE

Companies usually need to invest money to grow their profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the first and second cases, the ROE will reflect this use of cash for investment in the business. In the latter case, the debt used for growth will improve returns, but won't affect the total equity. That will make the ROE look better than if no debt was used.

Story continues

Combining Computershare's Debt And Its 15% Return On Equity

Computershare clearly uses a high amount of debt to boost returns, as it has a debt to equity ratio of 1.19. While its ROE is pretty respectable, the amount of debt the company is carrying currently is not ideal. Debt does bring extra risk, so it's only really worthwhile when a company generates some decent returns from it.

Conclusion

Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. A company that can achieve a high return on equity without debt could be considered a high quality business. If two companies have the same ROE, then I would generally prefer the one with less debt.

Having said that, while ROE is a useful indicator of business quality, you'll have to look at a whole range of factors to determine the right price to buy a stock. Profit growth rates, versus the expectations reflected in the price of the stock, are a particularly important to consider. So I think it may be worth checking this free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

If you would prefer check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

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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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / South Pole



South Pole, Monday, May 8, 2023, Press release picture

1. What is CORSIA?

CORSIA is the world's first mandatory sector-specific compliance carbon pricing scheme. The Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) is a global scheme to ensure the low carbon growth of the international aviation sector from 2020 onward. Agreed in October 2016 by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in Montreal, it obliges most airlines to monitor and report their emissions from 2019 and to purchase emission reduction units generated by carbon projects in other sectors to compensate for any growth in the sector's CO2 emissions above 2020 levels from 2021.

To comply with CORSIA, the international aviation sector has several options (baskets of measures):

The surrender of eligible carbon credits

The consumption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)

Improved ground operations, air traffic management, and infrastructure and the deployment of more fuel-efficient aircraft

2. Does CORSIA affect your airline?

CO2 emissions monitoring and reporting is mandatory for all CORSIA-regulated operators from 1st January 2019. Offsetting will not be mandatory for a few years, but if you operate internationally, it is very likely it will affect your airline particularly if you meet the following criteria:

Aircraft weighs more than 5,700kg on takeoff

10,000 tonnes of CO2 emitted annually on international routes

Operating for more than three years

Both states connecting the route your airline is flying are participating in the Pilot or First Phase of the scheme

Many countries have already signed up to the Pilot Phase of the scheme for 2021-2023. Read more here.

3. What do you need to do to comply with CORSIA and when do you need to do it?

2019-2020: Monitoring and reporting

All qualifying airlines in ICAO member countries were obliged to begin monitoring reporting emissions on 1st January 2019. The final deadline to submit a monitoring plan was 28th February 2019. Operators had to hire an accredited third party to verify their emission report before submitting it to the relevant national authority by 30th May 2020.

Story continues

Data collected in 2019 and 2020 was used to establish an emissions baseline and help determine offset requirements for 2021.

Starting from 2022, emission reports for the previous year are due by 30th April.

2021-2026: Offsetting in the early phases

CORSIA makes use of a route-based approach, meaning that compliance obligations apply to flights between CORSIA-participating countries. Participation in the market-based mechanism is voluntary between 2021 and 2026. Countries with large international aviation markets opting into the scheme during this six-year period include the UK, the U.S. and Australia. Notable non-participants are China, Russia, India (joining from 2027) and Brazil.

In any year from 2021 when international aviation CO2 emissions covered by CORSIA exceed the average baseline emissions, these emissions must be compensated for via the surrender of eligible carbon credits. Between 2021 and 2029, sectoral crediting obligations are being divided among participating airplane operators based solely on the sector's global average growth factor of emissions in a given year. Beginning in 2030, crediting obligations will be determined based on the average growth factor in emissions not only of the sector but also of individual operators.

2027-2035: Mandatory offsetting in Second Phase

Beginning in 2027, participation in CORSIA will become mandatory for most states and so apply to almost all international routes. The only exemptions after 2027 will be those to and from states with low aviation activity, or classified as "Least Developed" "Small Island Developing"or "Landlocked Developing".

Every three years starting in 2025, operators will have to acquire and retire the number of emissions units that match their offsetting obligation for the relevant compliance period.

CORSIA Baseline

Originally, the baseline that was to determine the cap on CO2 emissions for the entire 2021-2035 period was to be based on the average of international aviation's 2019 and 2020 emissions. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and airlines' lobbying for this baseline determination to be modified, on 30 June 2020, the ICAO Council announced that, for the scheme's pilot phase, the value of 2019 emissions would be used for 2020 emissions to avoid inappropriate economic burden on the international aviation industry. Consequently, offsetting obligations are likely to be rather minimal during the pilot phase.

In October 2022, the ICAO Assembly agreed to a new CORSIA baseline for the first and second phases of the scheme: 85% of the international aviation sector's CO2 emissions in 2019. This lowering of the baseline--relative to that which applies in the scheme's Pilot Phase - will lead to larger offsetting obligations for the sector than what it currently faces.

How can South Pole support you?

We can support you to build an offset procurement strategy for CORSIA . We can model your offset demand, help navigate offsets eligibility rules, determine best sourcing pathways and assist you in offset tenders.

We offer you offsets for CORSIA compliance from our project portfolio , the world's largest, at competitive pricing.

We help you engage with environmentally conscious passengers through voluntary carbon offset programs.

We develop carbon calculators built into your checkout process, assist in engagement campaigns to increase take-up rates and offer high-quality offsets.

We provide CORSIA workshops, from basic 101 CORSIA to customised learning sessions for your Airline.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from South Pole on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: South Pole

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/south-pole

Email: info@3blmedia.com



SOURCE: South Pole





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CALGARY, AB, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Crescent Point Energy Corp. ("Crescent Point" or the "Company") (TSX: CPG) (NYSE: CPG) advises that it has temporarily shut in its Kaybob Duvernay production in response to the recent Alberta wildfires. This precautionary measure is being taken by the Company to protect the safety of its staff, the community, environment, and its assets. As a result, approximately 45,000 boe/d of production in the Kaybob Duvernay has been temporarily shut-in with a plan to restart production once safe and permitted to do so. No damage has been reported to the Company's assets.

Crescent Point Energy Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Crescent Point Energy Corp.)

Crescent Point staff are currently working with local officials, regulators, and industry partners during their response to the wildfires. The Company is continually monitoring the situation and will provide an update when appropriate.

Crescent Point would like to commend its staff, industry partners, emergency responders and firefighters for protecting our communities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CRESCENT POINT ENERGY, PLEASE CONTACT:

Shant Madian, Vice President, Capital Markets, or

Sarfraz Somani, Manager, Investor Relations

Telephone: (403) 693-0020 Toll-free (US and Canada): 888-693-0020 Fax: (403) 693-0070

Address: Crescent Point Energy Corp. Suite 2000, 585 - 8th Avenue S.W. Calgary AB T2P 1G1

www.crescentpointenergy.com

Crescent Point shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CPG.

Cision

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SOURCE Crescent Point Energy Corp.

Cision

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CHICAGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ameren Illinois is pushing to raise its profit rate for shareholders to the highest of any other Illinois utility seeking a rate increase, the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) revealed Monday, as it urged regulators to slash the proposal by at least $59.2 million.

Citizens Utility Board Logo (PRNewsfoto/Citizens Utility Board)

"Ameren's push to increase gas bills and inflate its profit rate is unjust and unreasonable, and we call on state regulators to slash this unnecessary rate hike," CUB Executive Director David Kolata said. "As climate change gets worse and customers struggle to afford their bills, we can't keep bailing out an expensive, outdated fossil fuel like gas."

Kolata urged Ameren customers to visit CUBHelpCenter.com to sign a petition to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) against the proposed increase.

On January 6, Ameren Illinois filed for a $160.4 million rate hike with the ICC, pushing to increase delivery rates by an average of $6.68 a month (for customers who use about 62 therms of gas a month).

Ameren Illinois also received a $76 million gas hike in January of 2021. In the two years since that rate hike, the gas utility's parent company, Ameren, has raked in more than $2 billion in profits.

Consumer advocates have sounded the alarm in 2023, as major Illinois gas and electric utilities are pushing for a record six rate hikes totaling $2.8 billion. In response to this unprecedented attack, several groups and agencies are challenging increases, including the Illinois Attorney General's Office, Environmental Defense Fund, Illinois PIRG and CUB.

In the Ameren gas case, CUB, the Illinois Industrial Energy Consumers (IIEC) group, Federal Executive Agencies, Prairie Rivers Network and United Congregations of Metro East partnered to commission expert analysis from Brubaker & Associates, Inc., a Missouri-based consulting firm that specializes in utility regulation. Through the testimony, filed May 5, CUB makes several recommendations to slash the rate hike by more than $59 million, including:

Story continues

Return on Equity. Ameren has proposed an excessive increase in its "return on equity" (ROE)or profit rate for shareholdersfrom about 9.67 percent to 10.7 percent. That would be the highest ROE of any utility asking for a rate hike in Illinois. Instead, CUB argues for a more reasonable 9.5 percent ROE, which would reduce the rate hike by $25.6 million.

In the rate-setting process, ROE is the most important component of a utility's "rate of return," which is the rate at which the utility recovers the cost of financing physical assets, such as gas meters, pipes and gas-storage fields.

Capital Structure. CUB's expert testimony also found problems with another key component of rate of return: "capital structure"basically how it finances infrastructure projects. Ameren's proposed "common equity ratio"how much of the utility's financing comes from issuing stockswas too high, CUB argued. The more reasonable equity ratio CUB recommends would reduce the rate hike by another $6.3 million.

Other financial adjustments, including those related to sales forecasts, labor expenses and cash working capital issues, amounted to more than $27 million, for a total recommended reduction of at least $59.2 million. CUB hopes to support additional reductions uncovered by the Illinois Attorney General's Office and other parties.

About $76.7 million of the total $160.4 million rate hike is for rider surcharges customers have already been paying, including through the controversial Qualified Infrastructure Plant (QIP) surcharge, which state legislators allowed gas utilities to slap on customers beginning in 2013. This regulatory shortcut allows utilities to rapidly increase bills outside a standard ICC rate case proceedingwhich is why CUB has pushed to sunset this charge. Under Ameren's rate-hike proposal, the $76.7 million in surcharges would be rolled into delivery rates going forward.

Minus the amount from QIP and other surcharges, the rate hike is about $83.8 million, and CUB's recommendations would cut that amount by about 70 percent.

The ICC will rule on the rate-hike request around November, after an 11-month rate case. The proposed increase would impact delivery rateswhat the utility charges to cover the costs of delivering gas to customer homes, plus a profit. Those rates take up about a third to a half of gas bills.

Ameren Illinois serves about 816,000 gas customers in Central and Southern Illinois.

Citizens Utility Board (CUB) is Illinois' leading nonprofit utility watchdog group. Created by the Illinois Legislature, CUB opened its doors in 1984 to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. Since then, CUB has saved consumers more than $20 billion by helping to block rate hikes and secure refunds. For more information, call CUB's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit CUB's award-winning website, www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org.

Cision

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SOURCE Citizens Utility Board
Key Insights

Durr's estimated fair value is 40.06 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Durr's 31.50 share price signals that it might be 21% undervalued

Analyst price target for DUE is 39.50 which is 1.4% below our fair value estimate

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Durr Aktiengesellschaft (ETR:DUE) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for Durr

The Calculation

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF (, Millions) 109.6m 155.8m 185.5m 192.1m 197.1m 200.8m 203.6m 205.7m 207.3m 208.6m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x6 Analyst x6 Analyst x5 Est @ 3.57% Est @ 2.57% Est @ 1.87% Est @ 1.38% Est @ 1.04% Est @ 0.80% Est @ 0.63% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 7.2% 102 136 151 146 139 132 125 118 111 104

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 1.3b

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The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (0.2%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 7.2%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032  (1 + g)  (r  g) = 209m (1 + 0.2%)  (7.2% 0.2%) = 3.0b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 3.0b ( 1 + 7.2%)10= 1.5b

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is 2.8b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of 31.5, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 21% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

The Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Durr as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.2%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.168. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for Durr

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Machinery market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the German market.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Annual revenue is forecast to grow slower than the German market.

Moving On:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For Durr, there are three fundamental elements you should look at:

Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 1 warning sign for Durr you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does DUE's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every German stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Mark Humphrey/AP / Shutterstock.com

Personal finance guru Dave Ramsey rose to fame by helping people eliminate debt, build savings and work toward a secure retirement. Much of his advice involves reallocating income and reprioritizing spending, but there's nothing like found money to launch you closer to your goals -- and Ramsey knows just where to look for it.

Next: Why Stealth Wealth Is the Best Way To Handle Your Money

Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

The following is a look at Ramsey's advice on scouring for money that you don't have to work harder or sacrifice your lifestyle to get -- it's hiding in plain sight. By following these easy tips, you can have more cash to save for emergencies, invest for the future or even take a vacation you couldn't have otherwise afforded.

Tran Van Quyet / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Buy Store Brand Groceries

According to CNET, generic groceries are about 40% cheaper than identical brand-name goods -- a fact that is not lost on Ramsey.

In a blog post, Ramsey used sample dishes from a hypothetical meal plan to show how buying the store brand can reveal money hiding in plain sight. He tallied the cost of ingredients for the following recipes purchased at a Kroger in Nashville, Tenn., and listed each dish's final price.

Spaghetti and Beef

Generic price: $9.48

Name brand price: $11.62

Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Generic price: $11.80

Name brand price: $15.74

Loaded Beef Tacos

Generic price: $19.16

Name brand price: $24.16

Check Out: 22 Side Gigs That Can Make You Richer Than a Full-Time Job

Also: Suze Orman Cautions Against Investing Emergency Funds in Two Common Places -- Here's Why

mactrunk / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Eliminate the Burden That Is Your Tax Refund

Millions of Americans look forward to tax refunds every year. In fact, many people count on them. But Ramsey reminds his followers that a refund isn't a bonus. It's repayment for an interest-free loan you gave to the government.

If you're getting sizable refunds, Ramsey suggests talking to HR and filling out a W-4 to adjust your payroll withholdings so that you can bring home more of your money to put toward your debt or investments.

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But whatever you do, don't rely on the IRS' math, which is designed for you to issue the agency a free loan with every paycheck.

He told a caller on "The Ramsey Show," "The IRS tables don't work. They create huge refunds... Withholding is not supposed to be over-withholding, and a refund comes from over-withholding."

Take Our Poll: Who Has Given You the Best Money Advice You Have Ever Received?

Zinkevych / Getty Images/iStockphoto

If You Don't Use It and Don't Love It, Sell It

Ramsey advocates selling unused stuff around your house for two reasons. First, if it's sellable, then it's money hiding in plain sight. Second, if it's stuff that won't be missed, you'll eliminate clutter and improve your living space -- but Ramsey is clear that unless you're really in a pinch, sell only things that don't bring you joy.

When a caller on "The Ramsey Show" asked about the wisdom of parting with a beloved collection to pay down debt, Ramsey advised, "You've got to ask yourself, 'Is it worth it? Are there some of these items that I care about more than being out of debt?'"

Iakov Filimonov / Shutterstock.com

Adjust Your Budget With Every Raise or Bonus

According to Ramsey's blog, most Americans receive a roughly 3% annual raise -- but since it's not a major windfall, the extra cash typically goes unaccounted for and gets lost in the shuffle.

On his radio show, Ramsey told a caller anticipating a raise, "Give every dollar an assignment. Every dollar that doesn't have a mission before the month begins tends to just disappear. If you don't tell money where to go, you will always wonder where it went -- and that's called a budget."

With that in mind, Ramsey cautions against using raises or bonuses to catch up on bills -- if you're behind on bills, you have a budgeting problem, not an income problem -- and instead advises using it to eliminate debt or save for retirement.

Honey

Use Apps To Search for Savings With Every Purchase

Whether you're buying something in-store or online, Ramsey cautions on his blog, "If you don't use coupons when you shop, you could be missing out on some serious savings! Luckily, gone are the days when you have to clip, organize and haul hundreds of coupons out the door with you."

Ramsey suggests checking out the following cash-back and coupon apps and browser extensions, picking a few you like and utilizing them for every single purchase:

Drop

Honey

Rakuten

Ibotta

SnipSnap

Checkout 51

Shopkick

RetailMeNot

Coupons.com

Receipt Hog

Ramsey also suggests using category-specific apps like GasBuddy and GoodRx to find money hiding in plain sight.

Marvin Samuel Tolentino Pineda / Getty Images

Cut the Cord -- But Don't Over-Stream

If you still have a contract with a big cable company, then there's probably money hiding in plain sight where you cast your gaze the most -- the television.

In a March blog post, Ramsey wrote, "It's no secret that cable prices are rising like crazy. The average cable TV bill has grown 52% in the last three years!"

He went on to list the comparably affordable prices for on-demand streaming services like Netflix and live TV offerings from competitors like Hulu and YouTube TV.

But, he cautioned, "Don't go subscription service happy here. Only sign up for the streaming services you'll actually use. If you sign up for everything out there, you could end up actually spending more than cable!"

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Dave Ramseys 6 Tips To Help You Find Money Hiding in Plain Sight
Americas debt ceiling was reached  again  on January 19, 2023 as the country exceeded its $31.4 trillion spending cap. The cap was raised to that amount in December 2021. As much terms like ceiling and cap are used in this discussion, the truth is this limitation is more of a temporary hindrance than a cut-off  the cap has been raised 78 times since 1960.

While this may seem like a topic outside of your realm of concerns, the longstanding effects of not having this ceiling raised again have a strong potential to bleed over into your personal finances  namely your 401(k), Social security and Medicare.

For more guidance navigating the implications of the debt limit ceiling, consider matching with a vetted financial advisor for free.

The national debt ceiling is the legal limit on the amount of debt that the U.S. government can incur. This limit is set by Congress and is intended to ensure that the government does not spend more money than it takes in. However, when the government reaches the debt ceiling, it can no longer borrow money needed to run the government.

Americas Debt Ceiling Crisis

Raising the debt ceiling isnt a swift single-step process, it requires a series of steps through multiple parties, and in recent years it has been contentious. The full process looks like this:

The Treasury Department forecasts when the government will reach the debt ceiling and notifies Congress. The President submits a request to Congress to raise the debt ceiling. The House of Representatives and the Senate hold hearings to discuss the need to raise the debt ceiling and potential alternatives. Both chambers of Congress vote on a bill to raise the debt ceiling. If the bill passes both chambers, it is sent to the President for signature. If the President signs the bill, the debt ceiling is raised.

Ultimately, its up to the president and Congress to agree on lifting the ceiling and by how much. Time is a factor, though. If negotiations carry out too long, the U.S. can default on its debt, yielding repercussions throughout the economy and government programs.

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If youre ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Impact on 401(k)s

The impact on 401(k)s is a direct one since the value of a 401(k) relies on the success of the stock market. If the government is unable to raise the debt ceiling, it may default on its debt obligations, which can lead to a loss of confidence in the U.S. economy.

This, in turn, can cause the stock market to drop, leading to a decrease in the value of 401(k)s. As a result, a default on debt obligations could lead to long-term effects on 401(k)s, as investors may be less likely to invest in the stock market in the future.

Impact on Social Security and Medicare

Social Security and Medicare are also at risk if the debt ceiling is not raised. These programs are funded by the government, and if it is unable to borrow money, it may have to cut spending on these programs. This could lead to reduced benefits for recipients of Social Security and Medicare. This could have a significant impact on seniors and those who rely on these programs for their livelihood.

Keep in mind, the debt ceiling does not affect the amount of debt the government incurs; it only limits the governments ability to borrow more money to finance existing debt. The government can still spend money on programs such as Social Security and Medicare even if the debt ceiling is not raised. However, if the government is unable to borrow money to finance its existing debt, it may have to cut spending on these programs in order to meet its financial obligations.

The Bottom Line

While it benefits no one to see the U.S. default on its existing debt, the fact still stands that issues such as the debt ceiling are commonly used as political bargaining chips which only further complicates the proceedings.

The U.S. Treasury has since stepped in to institute necessary measures to buy Congress a few months to carry out negotiations. However, close calls are never settling, and, amid real implications for Americans retirement accounts and entitlement programs, it brings up many concerns as to how dependent Americans are on government debt to supplement their retirement.

Tips on Handling your Retirement

To avoid concerns such as Social Security insolvency and absent Medicare benefits, Americans need to prepare for retirement through proactive measures. A financial advisor is a wise choice when putting a strategy in place that will give you a plan of action for your financial future after your working years are past.

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.

Photo credit: iStock/Douglas Rissing, Dilok Klaisataporn

The post Debit Limit Ceiling Crisis Could Hit Your 401(k), Social Security and Medicare appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
Delta 9 Cannabis

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DELTA 9 CANNABIS INC. (TSX: DN) (OTCQX: DLTNF) (Delta 9 or the Company) provides guidance on its revenue forecast for the three-month period ending March 31, 2023, based on preliminary results:



The Company anticipates revenue for the three-month period ending March 31, 2023, to be between $16.8 million and $17.0 million compared with $12.5 million for the same period last year.



The Company will provide investors with a full breakdown of revenue and financial results as part of its Financial Statements and Management Discussion and Analysis for the three-month period ending March 31, 2023. A news release on the financials will be issued on May 15, 2023, after the stock market closes. This will be followed by a conference call May 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. EST, the details of which can be found at the end of this release.

The preliminary estimated revenues for the three-month period set forth above are subject to the completion of the Company's financial closing procedures. These preliminary estimated financial results have been prepared by and are the responsibility of the Company's management.

The Company currently expects that its results for revenue will be consistent with the estimates set forth above, but such estimates are preliminary, and the Companys actual results of operations and other data could differ materially from these estimates due to the completion of its financial closing procedures, final adjustments and other developments that may arise between now and the time such consolidated financial statements for the period ended March 31, 2023, are issued.

2023 First Quarter Results Conference Call

Delta 9 will release the results for the first quarter of 2023 on May 15, 2023, after the market closes and have a conference call on May 16, 2023, to discuss the above results at 10:00 a.m. EST.

The conference call will be hosted by John Arbuthnot, Chief Executive Officer, and Jim Lawson, Chief Financial Officer, followed by a question-and-answer period.

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DATE: May 16, 2023 TIME: 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time Dial in # 1-888-886-7786 REPLAY: 1-877-674-6060

Available until 12:00 midnight Eastern Time, June 16, 2023 Replay passcode 526708 #

For more information contact:

Investor & Media Contact:

Ian Chadsey VP Corporate Affairs

Mobile: 204-898-7722

E-mail: ian.chadsey@delta9.ca

About Delta 9 Cannabis Inc.

Delta 9 Cannabis Inc. is a vertically integrated cannabis company focused on bringing the highest quality cannabis products to market. The Company sells cannabis products through its wholesale and retail sales channels and sells its cannabis grow pods to other businesses. Delta 9's wholly-owned subsidiary, Delta 9 Bio-Tech Inc., is a licensed producer of medical and recreational cannabis and operates a 95,000 square foot production facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Delta 9 owns and operates a chain of retail stores under the Delta 9 Cannabis Store brand. Delta 9's shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "DN" and on the OTCQX under the symbol DLTNF. For more information, please visit www.delta9.ca.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which reflect the expectations of management regarding the Companys future business plans and other matters. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward looking statements in this news release include statements relating to Delta 9s financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2023. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements, including the Companys actual financial results being different from its estimates as well as all risk factors set forth in the annual information form of Delta 9 dated March 31, 2023 which has been filed on SEDAR. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them. Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.




An event dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the birth of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was held by the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Azernews reports, citing Azertag that the event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Saudi Arabia, including the ambassadors of Turkiye, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan, local community representatives, Saudi businessmen and Azerbaijanis living in the Kingdom.

The participants of the event first got acquainted with the photo exhibition depicting various moments of the life and activities of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

Ambassador Shahin Abdullayev, who opened the event with an introductory speech, welcomed the guests and said that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, the world-famous political figure, in our country and beyond its borders. He emphasized that Heydar Aliyev, the founder of our independent state, is one of the greatest figures in the history of Azerbaijan and has rendered unparalleled services in the formation of the modern state of Azerbaijan and the development of our country.

Sh.Abdullayev noted that the period of progress and development of our republic began when National Leader Heydar Aliyev was first appointed as the head of Azerbaijan in 1969, Azerbaijan developed rapidly and became one of the leading republics in the Soviet Union in 1969-1982.

The ambassador brought to the attention of the event participants that Heydar Aliyev's return to power in 1993, at the request of the people, was the beginning of a qualitatively new stage in the history of our country. He said that thanks to the successful implementation of the foreign policy course based on national interests, which was founded by the National Leader, the international relations of Azerbaijan are developing rapidly, and the reputation of our country as an independent state in the world is growing. Sh.Abdullayev said that cooperation with the Arab-Islamic world was formulated by the Great Leader as one of the priority directions in Azerbaijan's foreign policy strategy.

Emphasizing that the outstanding services and progressive ideas of the National Leader are the basis of today's successes of Azerbaijan, Sh.Abdullayev said that with the signing of the "Contract of the Century" in September 1994, a fundamental change took place in the economy of Azerbaijan, the accelerated economic development and the reconstruction of the oil industry are the future development of our country. He said that he laid the foundation, that the implemented big projects gave impetus to the development of other fields as well, and as a result of all these successful policies, Azerbaijan has now become a leading state in the region.

Ambassador Muzaffar informed the guests that thanks to the determination of the Commander-in-Chief and the strength of the Azerbaijani Army, the territories occupied by Armenia were liberated during the 44-day Patriotic War and the territorial integrity of our country was restored. . Sh.Abdullayev spoke about Azerbaijan making important contributions to Europe's energy security and becoming a reliable partner of Europe.

Later, video materials dedicated to the National Leader, including a video depicting his official visit to Saudi Arabia in July 1994, were shown.
Zion Market Research

[195+ Pages Study] According to Zion Market Research, the global silo bags market size was worth at around USD 390 million in 2022 and is estimated to grow about USD 921 million by 2030, at a CAGR of approximately 6.61% between 2023 and 2030. The key market players are listed in the report with their sales, revenues and strategies are RKW Group, GrainPro, Inc., Silo Bag India Pvt. Ltd., The Context Network, Canadian Tarpaulin Manufacturers Ltd., The Andersons, Inc., Hangzhou Xinguang Plastic Co., Ltd., IPESA Silo Bags, Sigma AgriScience, LLC, KSI Supply, Inc., Flexipol Packaging Limited, Temudjin Flexible Packaging, RKD Rubber Pvt. Ltd., and others.

NEW YORK, United States, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zion Market Research has published a new research report titled Silo Bags Market By Capacity Of Bags (Up To 2000 Mt And Above 2000 Mt), By Storage (Fertilizer, Dry Grains, Wood Chips, Forages, Dried Fruits, Rolled/Crushed Grains, Wet Grains, And Others), And By Region - Global And Regional Industry Overview, Market Intelligence, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Data, And Forecasts 2023  2030 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand of global Silo Bags Market size & share in terms of revenue was valued at USD 390 million in 2022 and it is expected to surpass around USD 921 million mark by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.61% during the forecast period 2023 to 2030.

What are Silo Bags? How big is the Silo Bags Industry?

Silo Bags Market Coverage & Overview:

Silo bags are sometimes known as grain bags or silage bags. They are tubes made of plastic that are used for storing agricultural items like grain, silage, and haylage, among other things. The majority of the time, silo bags are constructed out of multi-layered high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic due to the material's strength, flexibility, and impermeable tendency towards moisture or air. As a result, the object that is being stored is afforded an increased level of protection. It is possible to use a grain cart or a forage harvester in order to fill the bags. In order to seal the silo bags after they have been filled, a specialized machine is necessary.

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This machine guarantees that the bag's air content is evacuated before sealing, so generating an airtight seal that is beneficial in preventing the growth of mould or bacteria. The hermetically sealed products are protected from any form of damage throughout the entire process of storage and transportation. During the entire procedure, neither the food nor its nutritional content is altered in any way.

Get a Free Sample PDF of this Research Report for more Insights with a Table of Content, Research Methodology, and Graphs - https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/sample/silo-bags-market



(A free sample of this report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)

Our Free Sample Report Consists of the Following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2023 updated report.

About 195+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on Request

Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2023

Includes Tables and figures have been updated

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Zion Market Research Methodology









Global Silo Bags Market: Growth Factors

It is anticipated that the global market for silo bags will expand as a result of the rising demand for food products in every region of the world. According to projections made by the United Nations (UN), the global population has already surpassed 8 billion people, and it is anticipated that this number would climb to more than 9.5 billion by the year 2050. Given that food is one of humanity's most fundamental need, the rapid rate at which the world's population is expanding is an indication of the enormous amount of pressure that is being placed on the agricultural sector. Every individual, regardless of their financial or economic circumstances, will have access to an appropriate amount of food grains thanks to a number of new programmes that have been launched jointly by government agencies and private businesses.

As a result of its high level of efficiency in preventing the food contained within the bag from being tainted by any form of damage brought on by external forces, silo bags are highly sought items in the agricultural industry. In addition, farmers are experiencing a severe lack of available storage facilities, and silo bags have the potential to serve as an excellent source of storage at a cost that is relatively lower, which would ultimately result in increased consumption.

Directly Purchase a copy of the report with TOC @ https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/buynow/su/silo-bags-market



Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2022 USD 390 Million Projected Market Size in 2030 USD 921 Million CAGR Growth Rate 6.61% CAGR Base Year 2022 Forecast Years 2023-2030 Key Market Players RKW Group, GrainPro, Inc., Silo Bag India Pvt. Ltd., The Context Network, Canadian Tarpaulin Manufacturers Ltd., The Andersons, Inc., Hangzhou Xinguang Plastic Co., Ltd., IPESA Silo Bags, Sigma AgriScience, LLC, KSI Supply, Inc., Flexipol Packaging Limited, Temudjin Flexible Packaging, RKD Rubber Pvt. Ltd., International Plastics Inc., Global-Pak, Inc., Blue Lake Plastics, LLC, PT. Delta Jaya Mas, Grain Bags Canada, RKW North America, Inc., Gaoqing Kuanbao Plastic Products Co., Ltd., Tianjin Yingtong Metal Products Co., Ltd., GreenBag America, Inc., Hangzhou Zon Packaging Machinery Co., Ltd., ESKO s.r.l., and Trucent. Key Segment By Capacity of Bags, By Storage, And By Region Major Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East &, Africa Purchase Options Request customized purchase options to meet your research needs. Explore purchase options

Silo Bags Market: Segmentation Analysis

The market for silo bags is broken down into many submarkets based on the capacity of the bags, the storage, and the regions.

The capacity of bags is used to categorise the global market into two distinct segments: up to 2000 mt and above 2000 mt. Because these silo bags are the ones that are most generally used for the large-scale storage of food grains such wheat, rice, corn and soybeans, the industry saw the biggest increase in 2022 in silo bags that had a capacity of more than 2,000 metric tonnes. These bags have a greater variety of commercial applications, and as a result, they create a greater amount of cash. This is because businesses have larger budgets than individual farmers or other smaller players in the agricultural market. By utilising these bags, significant quantities of food grain can be preserved for an extended period of time. In most cases, silo bags with a capacity of less than 2,000 metric tonnes are utilised by less significant businesses or by individual farmers. The estimates provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) indicate that in the year 2020, Russia produced around 85 million metric tonnes (MMT) of wheat and 13 MMT of barley.

Fertiliser, dry grains, wood chips, forages, dried fruits, rolled/crushed grains, wet grains, and other applications are the categories that make up the storage-based segments of the worldwide silo bags market. Dry grains such as corn, wheat, rice, soybeans and barley are the commodities that are most frequently kept in silo bags for storage purposes. These items are then put to use in the manufacturing of other goods, such as food, animal feed, and raw materials for industry. In these kinds of situations, silo bags are an extremely cost-efficient option because they not only extend the amount of time that food can be stored, but they also guarantee that the food's nutritional value will not degrade with time. As a result, they are ideal storage solutions, and not just for farmers but also for corporations. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, annual estimates suggest that around 25 percent of the world's food output is either lost or wasted owing to a variety of factors, including moisture, pests, and other causes. These estimates are based on estimates provided by the FAO.

The global Silo Bags market is segmented as follows:

By Capacity of Bags

Up to 2000 mt

Above 2000 mt

By Storage

Fertilizer

Dry Grains

Wood Chips

Forages

Dried Fruits

Rolled/Crushed Grains

Wet Grains

Others

Browse the full Silo Bags Market By Capacity Of Bags (Up To 2000 Mt And Above 2000 Mt), By Storage (Fertilizer, Dry Grains, Wood Chips, Forages, Dried Fruits, Rolled/Crushed Grains, Wet Grains, And Others), And By Region - Global And Regional Industry Overview, Market Intelligence, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Data, And Forecasts 2023  2030" Report at https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/report/silo-bags-market



Competitive Landscape

Some of the main competitors dominating the global Silo Bags market include -

RKW Group

GrainPro Inc.

Silo Bag India Pvt. Ltd.

The Context Network

Canadian Tarpaulin Manufacturers Ltd.

The Andersons Inc.

Hangzhou Xinguang Plastic Co. Ltd.

IPESA Silo Bags

Sigma AgriScience LLC

KSI Supply Inc.

Flexipol Packaging Limited

Temudjin Flexible Packaging

RKD Rubber Pvt. Ltd.

International Plastics Inc.

Global-Pak Inc.

Blue Lake Plastics LLC

PT. Delta Jaya Mas

Grain Bags Canada

RKW North America Inc.

Gaoqing Kuanbao Plastic Products Co. Ltd.

Tianjin Yingtong Metal Products Co. Ltd.

GreenBag America Inc.

Hangzhou Zon Packaging Machinery Co. Ltd.

ESKO s.r.l.

Trucent.

Key Insights from Primary Research:

According to the analysis shared by our research analyst, the Silo Bags market is likely to expand at a CAGR of around 6.61% during the forecast period (2023-2030).

In terms of revenue, the Silo Bags market size was valued at around US$ 390 million in 2022 and is projected to reach US$ 921 million by 2030.

The silo bags market is projected to grow at a significant rate due to the growing demand for food.

Based on capacity of bags segmentation, above 2000 MT was predicted to show maximum market share in the year 2022.

Based on storage segmentation, dry grains were the leading storage in 2022.

On the basis of region, North America was the leading revenue generator in 2022

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/inquiry/silo-bags-market



Key questions answered in this report:

What is the market size and growth rate forecast for Silo Bags industry?

What are the main driving factors propelling the Silo Bags Market forward?

What are the leading companies in the Silo Bags Industry?

What segments does the Silo Bags Market cover?

How can I receive a free copy of the Silo Bags Market sample report and company profiles?

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20232030

Market Dynamics  Leading Trends, Growth Drivers, Restraints, and Investment Opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis By Capacity of Bags, By Storage, And By Region

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

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Regional Analysis:

North America to witness massive growth rate

The global silo bags market is expected to witness the highest growth rate in North America with the US acting as the dominant nation. The United States is one of the largest producers of agricultural products such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. As the demand for efficient and cost-effective storage solutions is on the rise, the production and consumption of silo bags in the region may also witness a high growth rate. Europe is another significant contributor to the global industry with Germany and the US leading with higher CAGR due to the growing adoption of modern-age farming practices along with the need for flexible storage units. In Asia-Pacific, the growth may be the result of higher agricultural production in Russia, India, and China. Agriculture is the primary occupation in India and these regions collectively export a large number of food products. They are also registering high domestic demand as the population continues to rise.

By Region

North America U.S. Canada Rest of North America

Europe France UK Spain Germany Italy Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa Saudi Arabia South Africa Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America



Recent Developments

In September 2022, Marcher Brasil announced the launch of a new food extractor tool called OUTGRAIN211. The machine effectively removes stored food grains from silo bags. The product is known to be efficient, safe, and quick, and promotes zero losses. OUTGRAIN211 was launched at the Expointer 2022 and has promised to make the most of the storage system by avoiding grain contamination

In October 2022, Adani Agri Logistics Ltd, a part of the Adani Group, announced signing a contract with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for building 4 silo complexes across Bihar and Uttar Pradesh states of India. These units are expected to improve silo storage capacity by 3.5 lakh tonnes.

To know an additional revised 2023 list of market players, request a brochure of the report: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/requestbrochure/silo-bags-market



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SPARTANBURG, S.C., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Denny's Corporation (NASDAQ: DENN) today announced the appointment of Alex Williams as Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer (COO), reporting to Denny's President John Dillon. Williams brings with him decades of experience in the restaurant industry, having served in key operations roles with Starbucks, McDonald's, Outback Steakhouse, Fleming's Steakhouse and Moe's Southwest Grill.

Denny's Logo (PRNewsfoto/Denny's)

"Alex possesses an impressive blend of operations expertise and restaurant industry credentials. As importantly, he is a collaborative, purpose-driven leader and has true passion for the Denny's brand," said Dillon. "Alex's role will be pivotal in taking Denny's to the next level-- ensuring that our world-class food and operational excellence continue to be the hallmark of the Denny's experience. I am thrilled to welcome Alex to the Denny's family."

In his new role, Williams will oversee the day-to-day operational functions of the Denny's business and develop and execute a strategic vision for the operations of the Denny's brand.

"Denny's is a true icon of the restaurant industrya brand with a rich history and an even richer future," said Williams. "I cannot wait to join this incredible group of operators and franchisees to deliver an unparalleled experience for all our Denny's guests."

Williams will assume the position effective May 8, 2023. For more information, please visit dennys.com.

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.

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Denny's is one of the largest franchised full-service restaurant brands in the world, based on number of restaurants. As of March 29, 2023, Denny's had 1,594 franchised, licensed and company restaurants, which includes 161 restaurants in Canada, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

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.

Dennys Hires Alex Williams as Chief Operating Officer

Cision

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SOURCE Denny's
It's been six months since Bob Iger canceled his retirement and stepped back into the top role at Disney to right a number of perceived wrongs under his handpicked successor, with one hovering right near the top: reconnecting with the Disney theme park die-hards and restoring their faith in the brand.

Among his first acts as returning chief executive, Iger walked the Disneyland and California Adventure parks in Anaheim, California with Josh DAmaro, chairman of Disney parks, experiences, and products. And there was Iger at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort, talking to guests and cast members alike and taking a personal interest in new projects that are underway.

When Iger rejoined Disney as CEO in November, taking over control of the company from Bob Chapek, it was met with great fanfare by park loyalists who openly criticized Chapek on social media throughout his tenure.

The perception among many fans is that Chapek had a business first, customer last mentality. Rising prices and reduced services rankled Disney devotees who felt that the magic is gone.

Shortly after Iger's return, changes were rolling out at U.S. parks. Disney would no longer charge for overnight self-parking at its Walt Disney World resorts. Walt Disney World annual passholders would be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without a reservation (with some exceptions). There would also be free digital downloads of photos on rides for guests using Disney's Genie+ planning and ride reservation service.

Character meet-and-greets have been ramped up again and new Disney characters being added. The annual pass at Disney World is back.

I think that in our zeal to grow profits, we may have been a little bit too aggressive about some of our (theme park) pricing. And I think there is a way to continue to grow that business, but be smarter about how we price so that we maintain that brand value of accessibility, Iger said during the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom conference in March.

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Keeping all of Disney's faithful happy at its parks will always be a big ask, said Brandon Nispel, a senior equity analyst at KeyBanc.

Even lowering ticket prices is not a universal win. Some will cheer cheaper entry, while others will complain about the big crowds that less expensive tickets bring with them.

Theyre going to always frustrate half the people, half the time, Nispel said.

And then there's Disney's ongoing battle with the governor of Florida.

Iger's has attempted to protect Disney World's theme park district from a takeover by Governor Ron DeSantis. Disney sued DeSantis in late April, alleging the governor waged a targeted campaign of government retaliation after the company opposed a law critics call  Dont Say Gay. Disney's legal filing is the latest salvo in a more than year-old feud between the company and DeSantis.

Keeping politics at bay and upping the energy at parks is crucial to Disney at a time when its profit and revenue growth have slowed and profit margins at parks softened. By early November 2022, shortly before Chapek departed, Disney's stock had dropped about 50% from a year earlier.

Solid growth at Disney parks helped to offset tepid video streaming and movies performances during the company's first quarter. Sales at its parks, experiences and products segment grew 21% in the period, while revenue for the segment that includes Disneys movie business only edged up 1%.

Parks are the most critical business Disney has from my perspective, Nispel said.

The amount of money the parks generate keeps all eyes on the operations, especially Iger's.

We're listening to guest feedback and we're continuously working to improve the quality and value of their experience, Iger said during Disney's most recent earnings call.

And those improvements will continue into next year, with Disney announcing on Monday that some big updates are in store for Walt Disney World, including the return of Disney dining plans and offering some days that annual passholders and Disney cast members can visit Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation.

Disney dining plans will return as an option for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels who buy a vacation package with arrivals starting in early January. Guests will be able to choose from the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan.

Theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets, also beginning on Jan. 9, 2024. Date-based tickets are the standard ticket option for guests. Non-dated tickets and other admission types may still require park reservations.

Disney said it will also continue to offer early theme park entry to Disney resort guests for visits through next year and is working on ways for park goers to be able to plan with its Genie+ service and individual Lightning Lane selections before the day of their park visit.

Watching with rising interest along with parkgoers are investors, who saw the companys shares tumble during Chapeks last year. Walt Disney Co. will post second quarter earnings results on Wednesday.

On Monday, shares of Disney, based in Burbank, California, rose nearly 3%
enviromantic / iStock.com

Summer travel season is approaching, and you might just be getting to booking your flights. While summer is typically more expensive for travel, you might be able to save some money by avoiding purchasing flights on the wrong day of the week.

Related: 10 Tips for Saving Money on Airfare This Spring

Learn: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

There are some long-standing myths in the travel industry about the best day to search for flight deals, but less know that there are days where flights may be more expensive.

Weve reviewed data from Google Flights and a study from Expedia to find out if there really are worse days to buy tickets than others. Heres what weve found.

Best Day To Buy Airline Tickets: Sunday

Expedia analyzed millions of flights and airfare data and found that booking a flight on a Sunday could save you up to 15% on your total airfare. The data showed that booking on a Sunday versus a Friday yielded 5% cheaper airfare on domestic flights, and 15% savings on international flights.

And while waiting to book could yield you some savings, you might be better off searching your route on Google Flights, Kayak, Hopper, or another travel service, and setting an alert to track prices for those dates. This ensures that you receive a message if the price rises or drops, and if it drops, you can quickly book it to lock in a low fare.

In addition, there are no guarantees that you will get a lower price when booking on Sunday versus any other day of the week. Airline ticket prices are far more fluid and can even change by the hour. Your best bet is to start searching early to find better deals, no matter the day of the week.

See: Why Nobody Is Buying Vacation Homes Anymore

Dont Buy Tickets on Friday

While cheaper flights can be found by booking at the end of the weekend, shopping for flights on a Friday could end up costing you more. You might pay 5%  15% more, depending on the flight.

Friday is notorious for last-minute travel bookings for an upcoming weekend. And business travelers are getting their flights booked for the next week as well. This increase in demand may be the reason for the increase in airfare prices.

Story continues

If you happen to be booking airfare on a Friday, try to avoid booking unless your flights are at least days away, as Expedias study shows that airfare is lower for flights booked at least a month out.

More Ways To Save on Airline Tickets

While booking flights on Sunday can be an easy way to save a few bucks, there are some other ways to save big money on your next airfare purchase:

Fly on Wednesday . According to the Expedia study, scheduling your departing flight on a Wednesday versus a Sunday or Monday can save you up to 15% on domestic travel, and up to 10% on international flights.

Book at least one month out (domestic flights) . If you are booking a flight within the U.S., book at least one month out to save on airfare. According to the study, the sweet spot for booking domestic flights is from 28  35 days out. And booking between 3.5 months and 6 months in advance will actually cost you more.

Book at least six months out (international flights) . International flights require booking much further in advance, and those who book about six months out can save around 10% versus those who book within two months of departure.

Travel during off-peak dates . Booking a summer vacation to Disney or winter getaway to Hawaii is guaranteed to cost you more. If you can travel during off-peak season to your destination, you could save hundreds of dollars on airfare. Some airlines even have set dates for off-peak travel to certain destinations.

Be flexible with your dates . If you can be flexible with your travel dates, you might be able to save a LOT on airline tickets. A simple look at Google Flights lets you view an airfare calendar, and you can quickly see that departing a few days earlier, or arriving a few days later can save big money. If you are flexible, you will have the best chance for cheaper airline tickets.

Use a travel alert . Apps like Google Flights, Expedia, Hopper, and Kayak allow you to set travel alerts for your travel dates and destinations, letting you track the airfare prices for your trip. This can alert you when a screaming deal pops up, letting you quickly book a cheaper flight.

Use points and miles. If you want to avoid most of the cost of airfare altogether, consider using airline miles or credit card points to book flights. Many credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses that can net you tens of thousands of airline miles or points, which can be used to book flights. This can save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars, but you do need to know how the points work to get the best value.

Bottom Line

Booking on Friday will cost you more, and booking on Sunday can save you up to 15% on your airline tickets. But there are tons of ways to save even more on airline tickets instead of just waiting until Sunday to book your flights.

While statistically, prices are lower when you avoid booking flights on Friday, it doesnt guarantee it will work for you. Your best bet for cheap flights is to avoid booking last-minute, set travel alerts, and fly mid-week for the best deals.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Dont Buy Airline Tickets on This Day of the Week
Every investor would naturally like to see the stocks that make up their portfolio show a consistent upward curve, but that, as everyone learns eventually, is just not the way it works.

Peaks and troughs are part of the investing game, and even the stock market kings go through periods of serous pullbacks for one reason or another, be it macro developments or some news item that spooked investors. And every so often, despite sound fundamentals, the pendulum swings too far into negative terrain, and that is when investors are presented with golden opportunities.

With this in mind, we delved into the TipRanks database and pulled up the details on a pair of stocks that fit a specific criteria; both have retreated by more than 50% in recent months, but are considered to be oversold and ripe for the picking now by some of the Streets stock experts. In fact, the analyst consensus rates both as Strong Buys. So, lets see why the time might be right to add these names to a portfolio.

Air Transport Services (ATSG)

The first beaten-down stock were looking at is Air Transport Services, a leader in the provision of aircraft leasing and air cargo transportation services. Since being founded in 1980, the Wilmington, Ohio-based firm has grown to become a major player in the air freight industry and the company operates a fleet of over 100 in-service aircraft, including Boeing 767s, 757s, and 777s, which are used for both passenger and cargo transport. The companys customers include some of the worlds largest e-commerce and logistics companies, such as Amazon, DHL, and UPS.

Nevertheless, despite being a well-established and respected firm in the air freight industry, the stock has been through the wringer over the past year, having shed 51% over the duration.

Weak quarterly results such as the ones on display in the recently released Q1 print have done little to help matters. The company generated revenue of $501.1 million, amounting to a 3.1% year-over-year increase yet falling shy of the consensus estimate by $9.7 million. Adj. EPS of $0.36 also missed the $0.47 forecast.

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Further dampening enthusiasm, ATSG now expects FY 2023 adj. EPS in the range between $1.55 to $1.70, down from the prior $1.85 to $2.00. Consensus had $1.96 in mind.

So, is it time to bail out, given the disappointing results and outlook? Not at all, says Stifel analyst Frank Galanti. Despite conceding the Q1 numbers were not good, Galanti sees plenty to like here, and thinks the shares low price is enticing at current levels.

Despite weaker ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) cash flows, the leasing business is continuing to grow steadily. While there will likely be continued near term pressure on the shares as the investor base churns, we think the stock offers a compelling opportunity, Galanti opined.

Ultimately our confidence is based on the stable, long duration cash flows from the leasing segment. While we think it is too conservative, if you assume the ACMI business is worth nothing, the leasing business is trading at 7.5x 2023 segment EBITDA. Public leasing peers trade at 9-10x. As there is more clarity on the leasing segment, and capex results in growing leasing cash flows, we expect valuation to expand from the current over-sold levels, the analyst added.

To this end, Galanti rates ATSG shares a Buy while his $26 price target suggests they will add 74% of muscle over the coming months. (To watch Galantis track record, click here)

Turning now to the rest of the Street, where ATSGs Strong Buy consensus rating is based on 3 Buys vs. 1 Hold. Additionally, the analysts see plenty of growth ahead; the average target stands at $25.75, implying room for ~72% upside over the next year. (See ATSG stock forecast)

Grid Dynamics Holdings (GDYN)

Next up on our oversold stocks list, we have Grid Dynamics Holdings, a digital transformation services specialist. Essentially, the company helps its clients reach their business goals by leveraging the latest advancements in technology. The company provides services such as cloud transformation, data science, omnichannel customer experience, and DevOps engineering and touts its expertise in emerging tech such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain as helping its clients stay ahead of the competition. Grid also has an enviable client list which includes Apple, Google, Merck and Macys, amongst others.

However, GDYN shares have been on the backfoot over the past year and the slide picked up more downward momentum recently following the release of the companys Q1 report. The 20% post-earnings slip means the total loss since Augusts 52-week peak stands at 59%.

In the quarter, revenue increased by 12.1% to $80.08 million, fractionally edging ahead of the consensus estimate. On the bottom-line, adj. EPS of $0.08 met Street expectations. So far, so good. Yet as happens often, Grid came unstuck with its outlook. For Q2, the company sees revenue coming in between $76.0 million and $78.0 million, even at the top end, some distance below consensus at $80.90 million.

With the shares having retreated by such a large amount, Needham analyst Mayank Tandon now views the risk-reward as favorable for LT-focused investors.

Despite the mixed quarter and outlook, we believe GDYN is well-positioned to continue to scale and become a leading pure-play digital transformation services provider, the analyst said. While we expect the macro environment to pressure demand over the next 2-3 quarters, we believe that execution remains solid and GDYNs strong competitive position intact. In addition, GDYN has a well-stocked balance sheet (~$256 million in net cash, over $3 per share), setting up GDYN to weather the storm and be a potential share gainer, both organically and through M&A in this more challenging environment.

These comments underpin Tandons Buy rating and $14 price target. The implication for investors? Potential upside of 55% from current levels. (To watch Tandons track record, click here)

Tandons colleagues agree here. All 4 recent analyst reviews are positive, making the consensus view a Strong Buy. The $15.75 average target is more bullish than Tandon will allow and represents potential upside of 74% from current levels. (See GDYN stock forecast)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a newly launched tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
Funding will support workforce development and educational programs statewide, including in Bartholomew, Dearborn, Floyd, Hamilton, Howard, Huntington, Johnson, Knox, Lawrence, Morgan, Montgomery and Owen counties

PLAINFIELD, Ind., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Duke Energy Foundation is awarding more than $300,000 in shareholder-funded grants to 16 organizations providing job search, education and specialized training opportunities for Hoosiers.

"The most important investment we can make is in the people and communities we serve," said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. "Our Workforce Development Program grants aim to meet the needs of local employers while also providing resources and education to individuals to set them up for success in the workforce of the future."

The Vincennes University Foundation is the recipient of a $50,000 grant that will provide scholarships for students enrolled in the university's newly launched Electric Battery Technician Training Program. To support the growth of electric battery manufacturers in the region, Vincennes University has partnered with the Battery Innovation Center and Radius Indiana to launch a 20-credit-hour program in which students can earn a certificate of completion in electronics technology with an electric battery certification. The first-of-its-kind pilot program will be conducted at WestGate@Crane Technology Park in Martin County, Ind.

"As technology has advanced, the professional skills required for success and career advancement in our region have evolved," said Kristi Deetz, executive director of the Vincennes University Foundation and senior director of institutional advancement. "Through the generosity of partners like the Duke Energy Foundation, we're offering individuals the opportunity to master skills in the electric battery industry, opening the door to new career opportunities and meeting the workforce needs of local employers."

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The grants are funded through the Duke Energy Foundation's Workforce Development Grant Program. For the past five years, the company has contributed more than $1.2 million in grant funding to organizations that are helping to strengthen Indiana's talent pipeline.

This year, grants were awarded to the following organizations:

Developmental Services Inc. ( Howard County )  $20,000. Funds will support workforce development training for individuals with disabilities.

Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation ( Hamilton County )  $10,000. Funds will support the expansion of educational opportunities at the Fishers Agripark, including the installation of an aquaponics lab and a composter powered by renewable energy.

Huntington University ( Huntington County )  $10,000. Funds will equip Huntington University students with hands-on training to master skills needed for the Veterinary Technician National Exam to become registered veterinary technicians.

Ivy Tech Foundation ( Johnson County )  $30,000. Funds will support the purchase of programmable logic controllers for Ivy Tech Franklin's Advanced Manufacturing Lab. This state-of-the-art lab will be used to teach courses in industrial technology and advanced automation and robotics.

Jefferson Community and Technical College Foundation ( Southeast Indiana )  $15,000. Funds will support Jefferson Community & Technical College's Utility Technician Certificate program with the purchase of new equipment, materials and supplies that will enhance instruction and deepen students' learning experience.

New Albany Floyd County Schools/Prosser Career Education Center ( Floyd County )  $15,000. Funds will provide career development services for area high school students to meet the region's workforce needs.

Purdue University ( Bartholomew County )  $30,000. Funds will support the development of an electric vehicle technology certificate program, with specialized tracks available in electric vehicle development and service.

Sheridan Community Schools ( Hamilton County )  $10,000. Funds will support various activities to expose students to careers in the energy industry.

Southeast Indiana Workforce Investment Board ( Dearborn County )  $15,000. Funds will support individuals impacted by substance misuse with reintegration into the workforce, providing opportunities for occupational training and placement in high-wage, in-demand occupations.

Spencer-Owen County Economic Development Corporation ( Owen County )  $25,000. Funds will support upskill training for Owen County residents and small business owners. Five training sessions will cover social media mastery, teamwork and interpersonal skills, QuickBooks and Excel training, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and digital branding.

Stonegate Arts & Education Center ( Lawrence County )  $10,000. Funds will support a fall and spring camp for local high school students to learn about career opportunities in skilled trades.

The Pursuit Institute ( Hamilton County )  $25,000. Funds will support the development of a mobile classroom to teach local pre-kindergarten through 10th grade students about sustainable energy.

Turning Point SOC ( Howard County )  $20,000. Funds will support Recovery Cafe Kokomo's Skill Up program, which offers individuals recovering from substance abuse and mental health issues a path to employment with post-secondary education, certifications and licenses.

United Way of Central Indiana ( Morgan County )  $10,000. Funds will support the YMCA of Morgan County's Center for Working Families program, which serves individuals and families with complimentary services designed to increase their economic mobility, including employment placement support and post-secondary training.

Vincennes University Foundation ( Knox County )  $50,000. Funds will provide scholarships for students enrolled in Vincennes University's newly launched Electric Battery Technician Training program. The first-of-its-kind pilot program will be at WestGate@Crane Technology Park in Martin County, Ind.

Wabash College (Montgomery County)  $15,000. Funds will support professional development opportunities for students to pursue career paths in engineering, energy and the environment.

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation contributes more than $2 million annually in charitable gifts to Indiana and is funded by Duke Energy shareholders. More information about the Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation .

Duke Energy Indiana

Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), provides about 6,300 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 890,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana's largest electric supplier.

Contact: McKenzie Barbknecht

24-Hour: 800.559.3853

Cision

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SOURCE Duke Energy
Market Research Future

Electric Motors Market Growth Boost by Rapidly Increasing Technologies and Demand of Electrical Motors from HVAC Industry

New York, US, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  Electric Motors Market Information by Voltage, Output Power, End-user, and Region - Forecast till 2030", The market for electric motors will go from USD 142.02 billion in 2023 to USD 214.96 billion in 2031, at a rate of 5.32% from 2023 to 2031.

Electric Motors Market Overview

In order to transform electrical energy into mechanical energy, an electric motor is a type of electrical machine. The majority of today's electrical motors work by creating force in the form of torque imparted to the motor shaft by interacting between the magnetic field of the motor and the electric current in a wire winding. The three main industries where such motors are most commonly used are industrial, agricultural, and automotive. The need for motors has grown in both the commercial and residential sectors, nevertheless, as a result of urbanization and advancing technology. The HVAC industry has also been identified as the motor deployment industry with the fastest rate of growth.

Market Competitive Landscape:

The important firms active in the market for electric motors include

General Electric (U.S.)

Siemens (Germany)

ABB (Switzerland)

Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany)

Emerson Electric Co. (US)

Hitachi, Ltd. (Japan)

Johnson Electric Holdings Limited (China)

Rockwell Automation Inc. (US)

Among others.





Get Sample PDF Brochure:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2376



ABB and GE, with a wide range of products available for various end-user categories, have a significant amount of electric motors market share. These businesses have the products needed for various applications as well as cutting-edge stators, rotors, and copper rotor technologies, which boosts motor efficiency, performance, and dependability. Additionally, they are industry leaders in a number of fields, including battery production and renewable energy, which helps them find investment opportunities from several clients.

Story continues

Electric Motors Market COVID 19 Analysis

Every industry has been negatively impacted by the worldwide health catastrophe brought on by the unexpected spread of the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. Due to the adoption of severe measures like nationwide lockdowns to limit the virus's spread, industries must lose a substantial amount of operational time. As a result, the demand for electric-type motors has changed as a result of the illness outbreak. The lack of personnel and travel restrictions have halted production activities and brought the market to a standstill because the market is huge and contains numerous players with broad sales networks dispersed over different nations.

Report Scope:

Report Metrics Details Market Size 2030 2030: USD 214.96 billion CAGR during 2022-2030 5.32% CAGR Base Year 2021 Forecast 2022-2030 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Voltage, Output Power, End-user, and Region Key Market Opportunities Increasing use of electric motors in the agriculture sector Key Market Dynamics Growing demand for improved and energy-efficient electric motors Rapidly growing HVAC industry





Browse In-depth Market Research Report (110 Pages) on Electric Motors Market:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/electric-motors-market-2376



Electric Motors Market USP Covered:

Market Drivers:

Urbanization at a Rapid Pace to Support Market Development

Increased urbanization directly causes a rise in the demand for a variety of services, which opens up the potential for the use of electrical motors. For instance, the increasing volume of construction activities encourages the use of electrical motors because many construction tasks call for motors. Similarly to this, more motors are needed for various domestic applications in the residential sector. A further result of the increasing power demand is an increase in energy-producing capacity. Additionally, the use of electric machinery in the agricultural industry is directly impacted by crop cultivation because motors are crucial for the irrigation of crops. In the upcoming years, these variables are anticipated to favor the growth of the worldwide electric motor market.

Surging Attention to Renewable-Powered Vehicles to Promote Growth

The usage of fossil fuels in automobiles is currently being phased out through a number of projects being launched by the automotive industry. Companies have developed battery-powered electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) that are powered by fuel cell reactions. As an illustration, Toyota announced in 2019 that it will boost its global output to 30,000 fuel cell stacks by 2020 and had already begun using its hydrogen forklifts, buses, and heavy vehicles. In addition, in December 2018, Hyundai Motor Group unveiled a new plan with the goal of producing 700,000 fuel cell systems annually, of which 500,000 MW will be used for residential and commercial FCEVs.

Market Restraints:

The high cost of motor maintenance is the main factor that can impede the growth of the worldwide market. Its adoption by clients may be hampered in some situations by operational expense, which is sometimes very high. For instance, using a high horsepower motor with a poor load factor results in a large rise in the operation's cost per hour. However, unlike induction motors, certain motors do not have a self-starting torque. Auxiliaries may also be needed to start single-phase motors, in addition. As a result, due to these factors, market expansion may be hindered.



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Electric Motors Market Segmentation

By Voltage

Voltage-based segments of the electric motors market include up to 1 kV, 1 kV6.6 kV, and Above 6.6 kV. During the forecast period, the up to 1 kV segment is expected to grow at the fastest clip and hold the majority of the share. These electric motors are frequently chosen for numerous items used in homes and businesses.

By Power Output

The electric motors market is divided into two categories: up to 1 HP and above 1 HP, in terms of output power. The up to 1 HP market is anticipated to increase rapidly across the globe. Because more end-user industries throughout the world are adopting them, the need for these electric motors is growing. It is anticipated that the above 1 HP sector would expand in the next years.

By End-use

Industrial, residential, commercial, agricultural, and transportation are the segments of the electric motors market, with respect to end-user. Over the course of the projected period, it's expected that the industrial category will expand quickly.

Electric Motors Market Regional Insights

Considering the rapidly expanding industrial sector, the Asia Pacific is now the most lucrative electric motors industry and will keep this position going forward. As a result, the region is expected to dominate the market in 2022. The automotive, chemical, fertilizer, and petrochemical industries, among others, are all expanding steadily in the region, and this is expected to create a wealth of new business prospects for those involved in the production of electric motors.

The manufacturing sector has advanced greatly thanks in large part to China. In the production of cement, steel, chemicals, and energy, the country is at the top of the list worldwide. In the petrochemical and refining industries, it also plays a significant role. The nation's portfolio of industries currently includes a number of new industrial initiatives.



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Europe will experience exponential growth during the forecast period owing to an increased focus on renewable energy and green energy targets. Additionally, the growing focus on the deployment of electric motors for agricultural and industrial activities will favor the electric motors market demand in the region. In Europe, as per the latest update for targets by European Union for 2030, it includes a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 as compared to 1990 levels.

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Fortune Business Insights

Key companies covered in electric propulsion satellite market are Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.), Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.), Thales Group (France), The Boeing Company (U.S.), Airbus S.A.S. (France), OHB S.E. (Germany), INVAP S.E. (Argentina), Accion Systems Inc. Aerojet Rocketdyne Holding Inc. (U.S.), ArianeGroup GmbH (France), AeroAstro Inc. (U.S.) and more players profiled.

Pune, India, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global electric propulsion satellite market size was valued at USD 13.59 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to be worth USD 14.72 billion in 2023. The market is projected to be valued at USD 24.59 billion by 2030, recording a CAGR of 7.61% during the forecast period of 2023-2030.

The global electric propulsion satellite market is anticipated to register strong growth due to the satellites widespread usage in a variety of space-based applications including navigational & telecommunication, astronomy, earth observation, environmental studies, space exploration, and others. Small satellites are being preferred over medium and heavy satellites as they can be used for civilian, commercial, and military applications. These satellites are also gaining traction among end-users due to the high demand for satellite constellations, cyberattack threats, commercialization of the space industry, and growing focus of new market players on small satellites. Such factors will play a vital role in expanding the electric propulsion satellite market share.

Fortune Business Insights displays this information in a report titled, "Global Electric Propulsion Satellite Market, 2023-2030."

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LIST OF LEADING COMPANIES PROFILED IN THE REPORT:

Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)

Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.)

Thales Group (France)

The Boeing Company (U.S.)

Airbus S.A.S. (France)

OHB S.E. (Germany)

INVAP S.E. (Argentina)

Accion Systems Inc.

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holding Inc. (U.S.)

ArianeGroup GmbH (France)

AeroAstro Inc. (U.S.)

SSC Roscosmos (Russia)

Safran Group (France)

Sitael S.p.A. (Italy)

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Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 7.61 % 2030 Value Projection USD 24.59 Billion Market Size in 2023 USD 14.72 Billion Historical Data 2017-2019 No. of Pages 200 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Satellite Type Analysis

By Satellite Size Analysis

By Propulsion Analysis

By Subsystem Analysis

By Application Analysis Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

South America

Middle East and Africa Electric Propulsion Satellite Market Growth Drivers Rising Number of Space Launches for Defense & Commercial Applications to Bolster Market Growth

Increased Emphasis on and Investments in Space-based Activities to Propel Market Growth

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Russia-Ukraine War Impact

Threats of Aerial Attacks during Russia-Ukraine War Accelerated the Market Growth

Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the market was exposed to several vulnerabilities and threats. However, the war also had a positive influence on the space industry as the satellites facilitated transmission of crucial military intelligence data and internet network over the Ukrainian airspace.

Segments:

Robust Deployment of All-electric Satellites to Boost Satellite Manufacturing will Drive Market

Based on satellite type, the market is divided into hybrid and all-electric.

The all-electric segment was the largest and fastest-growing segment in 2022. Space-based services are finding robust application in commercial and military domains, which will drive the demand for all-electric propulsion satellites during the forecast timeframe. This is because these satellites are lightweight and do not incur high launch cost/kg as the conventional propellant storage system are not present in these systems.

High Adoption of Small Satellites for Satellite Constellation for Commercial and Military Sectors to Drive Market Growth

In terms of satellite size, the market is classified into small satellites, medium satellites, and heavy satellites. The small satellites segment is projected to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Various countries are increasing their R&D investments in small, micro, and nano-satellites-based constellations as they will be widely deployed in armed forces, environmental research, in-flight communication, and satellite-based internet.

High Demand for Electrothermal Propulsion of Satellites to Aid Segmental Growth

Based on propulsion, the market is classified into electrothermal propulsion, electrostatic propulsion, and electromagnetic propulsion. The electrothermal propulsion segment is considered the largest segment, with the highest market share in 2022 and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period, owing to high demand for electrothermal propulsion of satellites.

Increased Investment in Propulsion Systems to Bolster the Electric Propulsion Satellite Market Growth

In terms of subsystem, the market is segmented into structure & mechanisms, Thermal Control System (TCS), Electric Power System (EPS), Altitude Control System (ACS), telemetry tracking & command, flight software, propulsion system, and others. The propulsion system segment held the largest market share in 2022 and is anticipated to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. Space agencies and leading companies across the globe are heavily investing in and adopting next-generation propulsion systems through their governments financial support toward space propulsion due to high demand for satellite solutions for various applications.

Creation of Next-Gen Earth Observation Satellites to Drive Market Growth

In terms of application, the market covers earth observation & sciences, navigation, telecommunication, astronomy, interplanetary & space exploration, and others. The earth observation & sciences segment captured the largest market share in 2022. Space agencies are developing cutting-edge earth observation & environmental sciences satellites for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) systems. This development will positively impact the market outlook.

Based on region, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World.

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Report Coverage:

The research report provides a detailed analysis of the global market. It focuses on different aspects such as key players, product offerings, and end-users of electric propulsion satellites. The report also provides valuable insights into advanced technologies, trends, competitive landscape, competition, and product pricing and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the aspects mentioned above, it encompasses several direct and indirect factors that have contributed to the global markets growth over the years.

Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Space Launches for Defense & Commercial Applications to Bolster Market Growth

Electronic propulsion satellites are being increasingly used in several sectors due to their high efficiency and performance. All-electric small satellites are being increasingly utilized owing to their low cost and commercial availability of off-the-shelf systems & spare parts for satellite assembly.

According to a report by the European Commission  electric propulsion & related industry, the process of manufacturing electric propulsion systems and satellites is a technical challenge that calls for long-term, high-risk capital investments. These factors are negatively affecting the market growth due to the high entry barriers for new entrants.

Regional Insights:

North America to Dominate the Market due to High-tech Military, Civilian, and Commercial Satellite Launches

North America held the largest share in the market in 2022 and is projected to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast timeframe. Growing government investments in high-tech military, civilian, and commercial satellite launches due to rising need for satellite services will boost the regional market growth. Since the commercialization of the space industry in 2008, many new entrants have flourished in the North American space sector. Rising number of small satellite launches will bolster the market growth during the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape:

Companies to Focus on Developing Advanced E-axle Technologies

The top five companies operating in the market include Lockheed Martin Corporation, the Boeing Company, Thales Group, Aerojet Rocketdybe Holding Inc., Airbus S.A.S., and Northrop Grumman Corporation. The market is highly concentrated with various regional players.

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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  Key Contracts & Agreements, Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis

Quantitative Insights-Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Global Electric Propulsion Satellite Market Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Global Electric Propulsion Satellite Market Impact of Russia-Ukraine War on Global Electric Propulsion Satellite Market

Global Electric Propulsion Satellite Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Definitions Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast  By Satellite Type Hybrid All-Electric Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast  By Satellite Size Small Satellites Medium Satellites Heavy Satellites



TOC Continued...!

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Key Industry Development:

February 2023: Thales Alenia Space was awarded a contract by Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) to deliver electric propulsion systems for GEO-KOMSAT-3 multi-band communication satellite equipped with Satellite-based Augmentation System (SBAS), and is scheduled to launch by 2027.

Read Related Insights:

Medium and Large Satellite Market to Worth USD 14.98 Billion by 2028 | Medium and Large Satellite Industry Share, Excellence Performance & Huge Demand in Aerospace Industry by Fortune Business Insights

Satellite Manufacturing and Launch System Market to Hit USD 54.17 Billion by 2027 | At CAGR of 12.45%

Small Satellite Market Size to Hit USD 12.02 Billion by 2029 | Small Satellite Industry CAGR 11.53%

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Delvens

Delvens launched a report on Global Electric Ships Market by Type (Fully electric, Hybrid), Ship Type (Commercial, Defense), System, Mode of Operation (Manned, Remotely Operated, Autonomous), End Use (Newbuild & Linefit, Retrofit), Power, Tonnage, Range, Supply & Demand Side Analysis, and Segment Forecasts, 2023-2030.

Chicago, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Electric Ships Market is expected to reach $14.9 billion by 2030 from $3.7 billion in 2022, registering impressive expansion at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.7%. The Global Electric Ships Market is dominated by major players such as ABB, Leclanche S.A., Siemens AG, Wartsila, and Kongsberg Gruppen among others.

Electric Ships Market report brings together a meticulous study of the present and upcoming opportunities to elucidate the future investment in the Automotive industry. This report introduces top to bottom evaluation of the Electric Ships industry including empowering technologies, key trends, market drivers, challenges, standardization, regulatory landscape, opportunities, future guide, value chain, ecosystem player profiles and strategies. Electric Ships Market report is a valuable source of assistance for companies and individuals that offers industry chain structure, business strategies and proposals for new project investments. The credible Electric Ships Market report also analyses various inhibitors as well as motivators of the market in both quantitative and qualitative manners to make available accurate information to the end users.

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The transition to electrified vessels is accelerated due to high fossil fuel prices, advancements in battery technology, and stricter pollution restrictions. Enhanced battery technology aids shipping companies in reducing costs, pollution, and carbon emissions. Further encouraging the use of electric vessels are government initiatives aimed at reducing marine insurance costs and air pollution in port towns.

Story continues

Rethinking both domestic and international transportation systems is made possible by electric ships. For instance, the Yara Birkeland, the first fully electric, autonomous cargo ship in the world, will set sail in late 2021, taking 40,000 truck trips powered by diesel each year's place. By 2030, it is predicted that the global market for electric ships would have grown rapidly to $16.2 billion.

Electric Ships Market Report Scope

Report Feature Descriptions Growth Rate CAGR of 19.7% during the forecasting period, 2023-2030 Historical Data 2019-2021 Forecast Years 2023-2030 Base Year 2022 Units Considered Revenue in USD billion and CAGR from 2023 to 2030 Report Segmentation Component, Enterprise, End-User, Industry, and Region. Report Attribute Market Revenue Sizing (Global, Regional and Country Level) Company Share Analysis, Market Dynamics, Company Profiling Regional Level Scope North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa Country Level Scope U.S., Japan, Germany, U.K., China, India, Brazil, UAE, South Africa (50+ Countries Across the Globe) Companies Profiled Abb, Wartsila, Kongsberg Gruppen, General Electric Company, Vard (Fincantieri), Siemens, Leclanche Sa, BAE Systems, Norwegian Electric Systems As (Havyard Group Asa), Man Energy Solutions SE (Traton Group), Corvus Energy, Echandia Marine AB, General Dynamics Electric Boat, Anglo Belgian Corporation (ABC) NV, Schottel Gmbh, Visedo (Danfoss), Borgwarner, Fjellstrand, Sby Vrft A/S, Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd., Eco Marine Power Co. Ltd., Est Floattech, and The Cochin Shipyard, Shift among others. Available Customization In addition to the market data for Electric Ships Market, Delvens offers client-centric reports customized according to the companys specific demand and requirement.

Electric Ships Market Overview

The need for hybrid and completely electric ships, such as ferries, yachts, cruise ships, container ships, and cargo ships, is fuelling the growth of the electric ship market. The need to cut carbon emissions, the push for zero-emission transportation, and developments in energy storage technologies like lithium-ion batteries are important factors influencing this increase. The market is currently dominated by Europe.

The 75-150 kW power range, which includes medium-sized passenger ferries, is an important market segment in the electric ship business. A critical step in lowering emissions from traditional propulsion engines in maritime tourism is the switch to electric ferries. The energy storage system, which is employed in many ship types and includes batteries, ultra-capacitors, flywheels, and fuel cells, is another significant market segment. The most popular option among these for short-range, entirely electric, zero-emission ferries is lithium-ion batteries. For larger ships, hybrid propulsion technology provides interesting possibilities. Electric and conventional propulsion systems are combined in this technology, which offers operating flexibility, lower emissions, and better fuel efficiency. Additionally, during the projection period, manned ships, or conventional crewed boats, are anticipated to dominate the market for electric ships due to the retrofitting of diesel-powered ships with electric and hybrid propulsion systems.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the global Electric Ships market are Ubermetrics, YouScan, Agility PR Solutions, Akio Spotter, Astute Social, Brand24, BrandsEye, Brandwatch, Cogia Web Observer, Cisco SocialMiner, Clipit, Cogito, Complexium, Curalate, Daumsoft Social Metrics, Demographics Pro, Digimind Intelligence, Digimind Social, Echobot, Facelift Cloud, Falcon.io, Germin8, Frrole Scout, FirstRain, SemanticForce, SentiMetrix, SentiOne, Silverbakk, SmartFocus, SocialFlow, Ubermetrics, VendAsta's Reputation Management Platform, Verint Social Engagement, VICO Analytics, VICO PRISY, WaveMetrix, among others.

Recent Developments

Electric ships: the worlds top five projects by battery capacity

Stena Jutlandica - 50,000kWh - Stena Line, a ferry operator, intends to equip its Stena Jutlandica boat, which travels between the cities of Gothenburg, Sweden, and Frederikshavn, Denmark, with a 1,000kWh battery system.

AIDAperla - 10,000kWh - Corvus Energy, a developer of energy storage solutions, has provided German cruise line AIDA Cruises with the largest lithium-ion battery system ever delivered to a ship, a 10,000kWh lithium-ion battery system.

Ellen - 4,300kWh - In June, the ten-month sea trial for the Ellen pure electric ferry project, which took five years to develop, came to an end.

Project e5 - 4,000kWh - Asahi Tanker, a Japanese marine transportation company, has been developing two electric propulsion tankers that will serve as gasoline delivery ships in Tokyo Bay.

Guangzhou tanker (2,400 kWh): In 2017, the Chinese company Guangzhou Shipyard unveiled the first electric container ship ever, and a year later it entered commercial service.

Electric Ships Market Segmentation Analysis

The electric ship market has been divided into commercial and defense segments based on ship type. Commercial ships, particularly commercial passenger ships, are adopting electric ship solutions at a faster rate than cargo ships because they are often inland vessels and cover shorter distances. Ferries for passengers are the category with the fastest growth.

During the projected period, the hybrid electric segment is anticipated to dominate the market. Due to the challenges presented by a shorter range and smaller battery capacity, hybrid electric propulsion is advancing more than other types of propulsion. Hybrid propulsion helps vehicles go farther and carry larger loads in addition to enabling reduced emissions.

The electric ship market has been divided into four categories based on tonnage: 500 DWT, 5005000 DWT, 500115000 DWT, and >15000 DWT. For wheeled freight, small container vessels, roll-on, and roll-off vessels are included in the 500-5,000 DWT category. One of the most often utilized forms of transportation and one of the most polluting boats is container ships. To lessen marine pollution, they were the first to have a fully electric setup.

The electric ship market has been divided into two segments based on end use: newbuild & line-fit and retrofit. Currently, cruise ships and offshore vessels are the main users of the diesel-electric hybrid system employed by electric ships. Due to the rise in offshore exploration and the necessity for energy-efficient ships, there has been a yearly growth in the demand for electric ships. Norway is leading by example by making significant investments in ship electrification.

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Regional Insights

Due to the presence of major players, OEMs, and component makers, which are some of the factors anticipated to promote the expansion of the electric ship market in the region, Europe currently leads the global market for electric ships. These companies continually spend money on research and development to create electric ship solutions that are more dependable and efficient. Additional factors influencing the growth of the European Electric Ship market include the rising demand for electric shipping solutions for civil and commercial applications as well as their growing utility in the defense sector for carrying out persistent transport and surveillance activities. ABB (Switzerland), Leclanche S.A. (Switzerland), Siemens AG (Germany), Wartsila (Finland), and Kongsberg Gruppen (Norway) are important producers and providers of Electric ships in this region.

Electric Ships Market Outlook

Below is a list of important parameters that may infuse a positive outlook for the global electric ships market expansion:

Hybrid ships will set new deployment records.

A greater focus is being placed on efficient and environmentally friendly ships, particularly hybrid electric ships, as a result of impending environmental restrictions and rising fuel prices. While a plug-in hybrid ship has a traditional engine and uses shore power to charge its batteries, a full-electric ship's entire power source is its batteries. They are also recognized to provide solutions for modern ship propulsion systems that are power-dense, effective, and versatile.

Because hybridization with batteries may be utilized with diesel, LNG, and biofuels and does not require any charging infrastructure on land, it is seeing widespread deployment in offshore vessels, ferries, and tugs. The market will increase favorably as hybrid solutions become more popular in situations with significant variations in power output.

Thriving need or the production of power

There has been a growing emphasis on various strategies to minimize emissions as the marine sector gradually embraces decarbonization. The increasing demand for power generation systems has been sparked by escalating worries about the usage of fossil fuels and environmental contamination, particularly in marine boats. Concerns about the variations brought on by strong dynamic loads have increased significantly in ships. Shaft generators and other electrical solutions that are becoming more and more popular will be a key factor in the industry's growth.

Presence in Europe is expanding

Europe is making quick progress in the development of electric shipping, notably light and short-range ferries, thanks to factors including topography and an abundance of hydroelectric supplies. The emphasis on electrifying coastal vessels is expanding as a result of the dramatically rising CO2 emissions and other pollutants from container ships, freighters, tankers, and cruise liners, particularly in Norway. Another factor having an impact on the market expansion is the growing number of commercial ships in the area that are powered by batteries and motor technology.

Furthermore, as ferries and inland vessels dock regularly, providing the opportunity to exchange container batteries or quickly recharge them, the value of electric driving systems has greatly improved. To maintain competitiveness, several electric ship businesses have been aggressively applying various marketing methods, which has further increased market saturation. For instance, ABB stated in July 2021 that it intended to power the first entirely electric tugboat in the United States to provide optimum efficiency and zero-emission operations.

Delvens Industry Expert's Standpoint

Due to the demand for more ecologically friendly and environmentally sustainable maritime transportation, the market for electric ships is expected to increase significantly over the next few years. With improvements in hybrid propulsion systems, battery technology, and government policies that are supportive, the use of electric ships is poised to transform domestic and international commerce and usher in a cleaner, greener future.

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Global Electric Ships Market Table of Contents

Ship Type Outlook

Commercial

Defense

Type Outlook

Fully electric

Hybrid

End-use Outlook

Newbuild & line fit

Retrofit

Power Outlook

<75 kw

75150 kw

151745 kw

7467,560 kw

>7,560 kw

Tonnage Outlook

<500 dwt

5005,000 dwt

5,00115,000 dwt

>15,000 dwt

System Outlook

Energy storage systems

Power conversion

Power generation

Power distribution

Mode of Operation Outlook

Manned

Remotely operated

Autonomous

Range Outlook

<50 km

50100 km

1001,000 km

>1,000 km

Regional Outlook

Europe Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Sweden Austria Finland Belgium Turkey Russia Poland Hungary Czech Republic Switzerland Netherlands Rest of Europe

North America U.S. Canada Mexico

Asia-Pacific Japan China India Australia South Korea Vietnam New Zealand Philippines Thailand Malaysia Hong Kong Taiwan Singapore Indonesia Sri Lanka Rest of Asia-Pacific

South America Brazil Argentina Chile Colombia Rest of South America

Middle East And Africa South Africa U.A.E. Saudi Arabia Oman Qatar Iran Egypt Rest of Middle East and Africa



Key Players of the Electric Ships Market

Abb

Wartsila

Kongsberg Gruppen

General Electric Company

Vard (Fincantieri)

Siemens

Leclanche Sa

BAE Systems

Norwegian Electric Systems As (Havyard Group Asa)

Man Energy Solutions SE (Traton Group)

Corvus Energy

Echandia Marine AB

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Anglo Belgian Corporation (ABC) NV

Schottel GmbH

Visedo (Danfoss)

Borgwarner

Fjellstrand

Sby Vrft A/S

Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

Eco Marine Power Co. Ltd.

Est Floattech

The Cochin Shipyard, Shift

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READING, Mass., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eliassen Group LLC, is proud to announce it has been selected as a 2023 US Best Managed Company. Sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, the program recognizes outstanding US private companies and the achievements of their management teams.

The 2023 designees are U.S. private companies that have demonstrated excellence in strategic planning and execution, a commitment to their people and fostering a dynamic culture, as well as strong financials. Designees propelled their businesses forward and remained true to their purpose and values by investing in their people, creating advantage through digital transformation, taking measurable action on sustainability, and demonstrating their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Applicants are evaluated and selected by a panel of external judges focused on assessing hallmarks of excellence in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture and governance/financial performance. They join a global ecosystem of honorees from more than 46 countries recognized by the Best Managed Companies program.

"It is an honor to be recognized as a US Best Managed Company for the second consecutive year," said Sandra G. Callahan, Senior Vice President - Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications at Eliassen Group. "Our company continues to grow, and our teams throughout our company remain committed to the Eliassen Group community with an unwavering commitment to excellence."

"This recognition is a reflection of who we are, first as people and second as a company," agreed Dave MacKeen, CEO of Eliassen Group. "Our purpose guides our evolving business and our exceptional service to our clients. It's not something that we take lightly we take it to heart and live it. This fuels our leadership and our continued success."

About Eliassen Group

Eliassen Group is a leading strategic consulting company that provides business and IT services for our clients as they seek to transform and execute strategies that will drive exceptional outcomes. Leveraging over 30 years of success, we focus on professional services, talent solutions, and life sciences. Eliassen Group offers local community presence and deep networks. We are committed to positively impacting the lives of our employees, clients, consultants, and the communities in which we operate.

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About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees have revenues of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices  strategy, execution, culture and governance/financials. U.S. program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

Media Contact

Sandra G. Callahan

Senior Vice President - Head of Marketing, Brand and Communications

Eliassen Group

781 205 8148

Cision

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SOURCE Eliassen Group
Today, under the organization of the Milli Majlis (Parliament), a greening campaign timed to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was held in Mushfigabad settlement.

Azernews reports, citing local media outlets that Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova, First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Ali Huseynli, Deputy Speakers Adil Aliyev, Fazail Ibrahimli, committee chairmen, deputies and staff of the parliamentary apparatus participated in the greening action.

Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, who participated in the greening campaign, said that Eldar pine and olive trees were planted in the action.

The purpose of the action is to improve the ecological situation, to continue the traditions of promoting ecological culture and care for nature in the society, to contribute to the protection of the environment by encouraging the planting of trees and the reproduction of greenery.
Emirates has a modern cargo fleet but is returning to the classic 747-400 to support growing customer demand until new aircraft orders are fulfilled. Pictured is an Emirates 747-400, operated by TNT Airways, landing in Malta on Dec. 4, 2014. (Photo: Shutterstock/InsectWorld)

The air cargo division of Emirates has temporarily augmented its fleet with two older Boeing 747 jumbo jet freighters to meet expected demand while it waits for manufacturers to fill orders for new aircraft, the Dubai-based airline said Monday.

The 747-400s are being wet leased  a rental bundled with crews that fly the aircraft  and are currently being deployed to Chicago three times weekly and to Hong Kong nine times weekly. Emirates did not identify who is providing the transportation service on its behalf, but a source with direct knowledge of the companys operations said Michigan-based Kalitta Air is operating the 747s to Chicago OHare International Airport and Aerotranscargo is the contractor for Hong Kong.

Aerotranscargo, headquartered in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, has six 747-400s in its fleet, according to Flightradar24. The company is incorporated in Moldova as Aerotranscargo FZE, which holds its air operating certificate. The flight tracking site shows Aerotranscargo aircraft shuttling back-and-forth between Dubai and Hong Kong in recent days.

Kalitta Air operates 25 Boeing 747-400 freighters, as well as four 777s. A factory-built 747-400 has a maximum payload of 249,000 pounds. Flightradar24 also shows one of its jets operating between Chicago-Brussels, Belgium, and Dubai.

Emirates SkyCargo last utilized outsourced 747 freighters more than five years ago. Those planes were operated by TNT Airways, now part of ASL Airlines Belgium.

The airline plans to double its cargo capacity over the next decade and add more than 20 destinations to its freighter network despite the slump in airfreight, which has seen volumes decline more than 5% from a year ago and freight rates tumble 40%. But several long-range forecasts project the air cargo market to grow at a compound annual rate of about 4%, with the express segment powered by e-commerce growing at closer to 5% per year.





Emirates, the fourth-largest air cargo carrier by volume, operates 11 Boeing 777 cargo jets and has 15 new and used aircraft in the pipeline. In November, it committed to buy five 777 freighters from Boeing, with deliveries expected in 2024 and 2025. The airline last summer also announced plans to repurpose 10 777-300 passenger jets by sending them to an airframe maintenance facility for conversion into dedicated freighters. The retrofits are expected to roll out over the next five years, but the exact timing is uncertain because Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is still working to finish the licensing process.

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While the current market volatility may cause others to hesitate, Emirates SkyCargo is pushing full steam ahead with our plans. The medium to long term projections for global air cargo show an upward trajectory of between 3% to 5%. Combine that with Dubais strategy to double its foreign trade where multi-modal logistics will play a big role, and the economic activity happening in markets around the Gulf, West Asia, and Africa, and the opportunity for Emirates SkyCargo is clear, said Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president of Emirates SkyCargo.

The fleet expansion will still not be sufficient to meet growth projections, he added. Etihad Engineering, part of the Etihad Aviation Group and also based in the United Arab Emirates, has an agreement with IAI to convert 777-300ER passenger planes into cargo aircraft and will handle the Emirates job. Sultan suggested Emirates is considering additional passenger-to-freighter conversions to support its strategic plans.

Emirates SkyCargo also manages all the cargo carried on the airlines massive widebody passenger network, which will also provide more cargo capacity as the airline begins to receive A350 long-haul jetliners from Airbus in the second half of 2024 followed by the arrival of Boeings next-generation 777-9. Emirates has 115 777-9s and 50 A350s on order.

Emirates currently flies 252 large passenger aircraft, including about 90 A380 super jumbo jets, and plans to increase the fleet to more than 300 total aircraft within a decade.

The new aircraft mean we can expand our freighter network and amplify the connectivity with the main Emirates network, Sultan explained. The new fleet mix also gives us more flexibility to serve our different customers even better.

Emirates operates two modern air cargo terminals at its hub in Dubai.

Click here for more FreightWaves and American Shipper articles by Eric Kulisch.

Twitter: @ericreports / LinkedIn: Eric Kulisch / ekulisch@freightwaves.com

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The post Emirates taps Kalitta Air to fly rented 747 freighters appeared first on FreightWaves.
Siauliu Bankas

The European Central Bank informed Siauliu Bankas AB (hereinafter - the Bank) that it had issued a permit to Agne Duksiene to hold the position of a member of the Management Board of the Bank.

Agne Duksiene was elected by the Bank's Supervisory Council to the Bank's Management Board on 23 February 2023, and, as noted in the decision, he will only take up his duties as a member of the Management Board with the permission of the supervisory authority.

Agne Duksiene is considered to be a member of the Management Board of the Bank from 8 May 2023.

Additional information:

Jurgita Simanaviciute

Head of HR

jurgita.simanaviciute@sb.lt , +370 5 203 2263




Global Market Insights Inc.

Major expedition vehicle market participants include 27North INC., ACTION MOBIL GmbH, All Terrain Expedition Camper Trucks, Bliss Mobil, Boxmanufaktur, Bozcrome Industries PTY Ltd. (SLRV Expedition Vehicles), Expedition Vehicles VAK, Gekkotruck, Global Expedition Vehicles, KRUG Expedition GmbH, Motorcraft Adventure Developments, ROVER Off Road, Unicat GmbH, and Zocama.

Selbyville, Delaware, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --



Expedition Truck Market size is estimated to cross a valuation of USD 400 million by 2032, according to the recent research report by Global Market Insights Inc.

The rapidly expanding tourism sector, mainly in North America will push the demand for expedition trucks. The rising number of government initiatives for tourism development has spurred the higher spending on tourism activities. As per the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the domestic travel and tourism spending in the U.S. was projected to record more than USD 1.1 trillion by February 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 11.3%. The robust capabilities of expedition trucks for travelling to inaccessible remote destinations via other modes of transport will also anchor the industry development.

Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/5574



Flourishing demand for 3.5-7.5 tonne trucks

3.5-7.5 tonne expedition truck market size was valued at USD 60 million in 2022. The growth can be attributed to the influx of various innovative products and technologies, including the incorporation of machine learning and AI into high-standard kitchen appliances. These trucks are integrated with high-quality standards in interior construction to offer space-efficient sophisticated solutions. The growing popularity of minimalism will also add to the product preference.

Robust adoption of above 4WD expedition trucks

Based on drive system, the above 4WD expedition truck industry share may record USD 50 million 2032. On account of their enhanced stability and improved grip of the surface, these trucks are widely employed in rough terrains. Greater simplified control and traction in dangerous driving conditions, such as snow, rocks, ice, and other scenarios are some important product benefits. Increasing espousal in off-roading is another major important factor driving the vehicle uptake.

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Europe to emerge as a leading revenue pocket

Europe expedition truck market is poised to record 7% CAGR from 2023 to 2032 due to the strong availability of various recreational industry associations in the region. Some of these include Uni VDL (France), the Caravanning Industry Association (CIVD, Germany) as well as several other members of the European Caravan Foundation. The growing emphasis of these members on the production, sales, and supply of parts & services for expedition trucks will drive the regional industry expansion.

Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/5574



Key players involved in the industrys competitive landscape

Major expedition truck market companies are 27North INC., ACTION MOBIL GmbH, Unicat GmbH, Bliss Mobil, All Terrain Expedition Camper Trucks, Motorcraft Adventure Developments, Boxmanufaktur, Expedition Vehicles VAK, Gekkotruck, Bozcrome Industries PTY Ltd. (SLRV Expedition Vehicles), Global Expedition Vehicles, KRUG Expedition GmbH, ROVER Off Road, and Zocama are some of the major expedition truck companies. New product launches are largely employed by these firms to sustain the growing market competition.

Partial Table of Contents (ToC) of the report:

Chapter 2 Executive Summary

2.1 Expedition Truck market 360 synopsis, 2018 - 2032

2.2 Business trends

2.2.1 Total Addressable Market (TAM), 2023-2032

2.3 Regional trends

2.4 Weight trends

2.5 Drive System trends

2.6 Type trends

Chapter 3 Expedition Truck Market Insights

3.1 Impact on COVID-19 impact

3.2 Russia- Ukraine war impact

3.3 Industry ecosystem analysis

3.4 Technology & innovation landscape

3.5 Patent analysis

3.6 Key news and initiatives

3.7 Regulatory landscape

3.8 Impact forces

3.8.1 Growth drivers

3.8.1.1 The proliferation of the tourism industry and the rising number of expedition trucks in North America

3.8.1.2 Increasing consumer spending on camping and tourism activities

3.8.1.3 Growing demand for luxurious and technologically advanced expedition trucks across Europe

3.8.1.4 Rising utilization of expedition trucks in defense and military

3.8.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.8.2.1 High purchase and maintenance costs of expedition vehicles

3.9 Growth potential analysis

3.10 Porters analysis

3.11 PESTEL analysis

Browse Our Reports Store  GMIPulse @ https://www.gminsights.com/gmipulse



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About Global Market Insights Inc.

Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology.

CONTACT: Contact Us: Aashit Tiwari Corporate Sales, USA Global Market Insights Inc. Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688 USA: +1-302-846-7766 Europe: +44-742-759-8484 APAC: +65-3129-7718 Email: sales@gminsights.com




VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY) announces its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2023.

Year-to-Date Highlights

Announced results from the Copper Creek Project Preliminary Economic Assessment and an updated Mineral Resource Estimate on May 3, 2023, which included: Post-tax Net Present Value (7%) of US$713 million and Internal Rate of Return of 16%. Updated Mineral Resource Estimate that has 421.9 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.45% copper for 4.2 billion pounds of contained copper in the Measured and Indicated categories, and 83.6 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.34% copper for 628 million pounds of contained copper in the Inferred category.

Acquired a ranch for US$10 million on March 6, 2023, consisting of approximately 6,000 deeded acres (private land) within 32,000 acres of grazing leases as part of a land consolidation strategy around the Copper Creek Project.

Completed a bought deal financing on February 14, 2023, for a total of 49,999,700 common shares sold at a price of $0.80 per common share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $39,999,760.

Announced results for the Copper Creek Project drill program on March 14, 2023, February 23, 2023, January 31, 2023, and January 17, 2023.

At Copper Creek Project, continued to advance the project through the ongoing 10,000-metre Phase II drill program, baseline environmental data collection, stakeholder mapping, and ongoing generative exploration study to provide a pipeline of future targets through geological mapping and geophysical data collection and interpretation.

Upcoming Milestones

Q4 2023 - Initiate Phase III drill program at Copper Creek

Financial Results

Three months ended In Canadian dollars March 31,

2023 March 31,

2022 Exploration and evaluation expenses $ 5,239,030 $ 2,496,962 General and administration $ 880,029 $ 362,007 Share-based compensation $ 690,083 $ 1,006,290 Net Loss $ 7,167,959 $ 4,025,997 Basic and Diluted Loss per Share $ 0.05 $ 0.04

Note: The financial information in this table was selected from the Company's condensed interim consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2023 (the "Financial Statements"), which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website www.faradaycopper.com.

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Selected Financial Information

In Canadian dollars March 31,

2023 December 31,

2022 Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 27,801,433 $ 9,535,039 Net Working Capital $ 26,327,806 $ 6,642,161 Property Plant and Equipment $ 15,342,313 $ 1,444,054 Resource Properties $ 4,955,328 $ 4,955,328 Total Assets $ 48,422,658 $ 16,580,308

Note: The financial information in this table was selected from the Financial Statements, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website www.faradaycopper.com.

Cash flow, Liquidity and Capital Resources

During the three months ended March 31, 2023, cash used in operating activities was $7,922,544 (2022 - $2,637,637), cash used in investing activities was $13,538,439 (2022 - $91,443), and cash provided by financing activities was $39,174,354 (2022 - $103,000). Cash used in investing activities was primarily related to the acquisition of the ranch on March 6, 2023.

The Company is a resource exploration stage company and does not generate any revenue and has been mainly relying on equity- based financing to fund its operations. As at March 31, 2023, the Company had a net working capital of $26,327,806 (December 31, 2022 - $6,642,161). The Company will need to raise additional funding to finance its day-to-day operations and to enable the Company to achieve its long-term business objectives. On February 14, 2023, the Company completed an equity-based financing of $39,999,760 to fund its operations.

The Company will require additional financing either through equity or debt financing, sale of assets, joint venture arrangements, or a combination thereof to meet its administrative costs and to continue to explore and develop its resource properties. There is no assurance that sufficient future funding will be available on a timely basis or on terms acceptable to the Company. As such, there is a material uncertainty that may cast significant doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.

About Faraday Copper

Faraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing two copper projects in The United States of America. The Copper Creek Project, located in Arizona, is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with open pit and bulk underground mining potential. The Contact Copper project, located in Nevada, provides potential for a low-cost open pit, heap leach, oxide project. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY".

For additional information please contact:

Stacey Pavlova, CFA

Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications

Faraday Copper Corp.

E-mail: info@faradaycopper.com

Website: www.faradaycopper.com

Cautionary Note on Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the future drilling of the Copper Creek property.

Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses; lower than expected grades and quantities of resources; receipt of regulatory approval; receipt of shareholder approval; mining rates and recovery rates; significant capital requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for commodities; fluctuations in rates of exchange; taxation; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which Faraday does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, competition; loss of key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous peoples and other groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the Copper Creek property; and uncertainties with respect to any future acquisitions by Faraday. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks as well as "Risk Factors" included in Faraday's disclosure documents filed on and available at www.sedar.com.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. This press release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an offering memorandum, an advertisement or a public offering of securities in Faraday in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in the United States has reviewed or in any way passed upon this press release, and any representation to the contrary is an offence.

SOURCE: Faraday Copper Corp.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/753556/Faraday-Copper-Reports-Q1-2023-Financial-Results




Banks tightened lending standards for businesses and households during the first quarter and expect to keep tightening for the rest of 2023, according to the Federal Reserve's quarterly survey of senior loan officers.

The widely-followed survey is the latest sign of how challenges in the banking industry could pose a threat to US economic growth.

In fact, the Fed in a separate report released Monday highlighted a broader contraction in credit as a near-term risk to the financial system.

"A sharp contraction in the availability of credit would drive up the cost of funding for businesses and households, potentially resulting in a slowdown in economic activity," it said in its semi-annual Financial Stability Report.

Banks had been tightening standards before turmoil of the first quarter, which resulted in the failure of three sizable lenders and outflows of hundreds of billions in deposits. The new survey of senior loan officers released Monday confirms the squeeze on credit availability persisted  and is expected to linger for much of the year.

Bank officers also told the Fed that demand for new loans weakened in the first quarter, particularly for commercial and residential real estate, commercial and industrial and auto lending. The demand was weakest for commercial loans since 2009.

"The effects of the banking panic will be felt over time," according to a note from analysts at Oxford Economics. "Large proportions of banks of all sizes plan to tighten standards further over the rest of the year."

Bank officers surveyed by the Fed cited a variety of reasons for the tightening they expect to last through 2023, including deteriorating credit quality of their loan portfolios and collateral values, a reduction of risk tolerance, deposits outflows and concerns about bank funding and liquidity.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell at a press conference last week. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Deposit balances at U.S. commercial banks have fallen by $521 billion between the beginning of March and the third week of April, according to Fed data.

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Banks have not pulled back on lending entirely. Commercial loans and leases continue to rise at all banks, according to Fed data, although at a slowing pace.

Lending has continued to grow, but the pace has been slowing really since the second half of last year, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powells said last week shortly after the U.S. central bank announced another rate hike.

The worries about a credit crunch have become a hot topic across many companies. The use of the phrase tighter lending tripled during first-quarter earnings calls according to analysis from Bank of America.

Firms in the financial and real estate sectors mentioned the phrase the most. If credit conditions tighten further, a deceleration in sales is likely, the analysts noted.

One sector under close scrutiny is commercial real estate, which relies heavily on US banks for funding. The fear is if borrowers are forced to refinance office towers or shopping centers at higher rates, it could cause a wave of defaults across the US.

The Federal Reserve warned Monday in its Financial Stability Report that a material decrease in commercial property prices could lead to credit losses for banks with sizable exposure to commercial real estate.

Banks hold about 60% of commercial real estate loans, according to the Fed. The magnitude of a correction in property values could be sizable, the report stated.

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Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

ATLANTA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) announced today that it is making an additional $7.2 million in AHP Homeownership Set-aside Program funding available through its members. Eligible borrowers can apply for up to $15,000 to help them purchase or rehabilitate a home.

The additional funding will be available beginning May 15, 2023, through FHLBank Atlantas First-time Homebuyer Product, the Community Partners Product, and the Community Rebuild and Restore Product. The First-time Homebuyer Product provides up to $12,500 in down-payment, closing-cost, counseling, or rehabilitation assistance in connection with the purchase or purchase and rehabilitation of an existing home. The Community Partners Product provides up to $15,000 in down-payment, closing-cost, counseling, or rehabilitation assistance in connection with the purchase or purchase and rehabilitation of an existing home by currently employed or retired law enforcement officers, educators, firefighters, health care workers, other first responders, veterans or their surviving spouse, and essential workers. The Community Rebuild and Restore Product provides up to $10,000 in funding for the rehabilitation of an existing owner-occupied home in Emergency Declaration areas or Major Disaster Declaration areas designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Tomeka Strickland, FHLBank Atlantas Senior Vice President and Director of Community Investment Services, noted that the additional funding will help make the dream of homeownership a reality for as many as 500 eligible borrowers or more. We are pleased our board of directors has increased FHLBank Atlantas level of commitment to affordable housing for a second consecutive year, said Strickland. The additional Homeownership Set-aside Program funding will help those who are most vulnerable to the challenging housing market secure safe and stable housing for their families.

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Funding for the AHP Homeownership Set-aside Program is available only through FHLBank Atlanta member financial institutions, and funds are available on a transaction by transaction, first-come, first-served basis.

About FHLBank Atlanta

FHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Bank is a cooperative whose members are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district Banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $7.3 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than one million households.

For more information, visit our website at www.fhlbatl.com.

CONTACT: Peter E. Garuccio

Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

pgaruccio@fhlbatl.com

(404) 888.8143




Attendees will gain insight into the Company's drug development strategy, growing partnership network, and clinical trials

VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Filament Health Corp. (OTCQB: FLHLF) (NEO: FH) (FSE: 7QS) ("Filament" or the "Company"), a clinical-stage natural psychedelic drug development company, today announced that it will host a virtual update for investors and shareholders on Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern (11:00 a.m. Pacific).

Filament Health Logo (CNW Group/Filament Health Corp.)

During the event, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Benjamin Lightburn and Chief Science Officer (CSO) Ryan Moss will discuss Filament's recent progress including including US FDA approval of a clinical trial at the University of California San Francisco and the manufacture of GMP MDMA, as well as plans for continued growth.

The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session with the Company's senior management team.

WHO: Benjamin Lightburn, CEO, and Ryan Moss, CSO



WHEN: Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern (11:00 a.m. Pacific)



WHERE: RSVP to anna@filament.health to receive access details.





A recording of the webcast will be available on the investor section of the Company's website following the event.

ABOUT FILAMENT HEALTH (OTCQB:FLHLF) (NEO:FH) (FSE:7QS)

Filament Health is a clinical-stage natural psychedelic drug development company. We believe that safe, standardized, naturally-derived psychedelic medicines can improve the lives of many, and our mission is to see them in the hands of everyone who needs them as soon as possible. Filament's platform of proprietary intellectual property enables the discovery, development, and delivery of natural psychedelic medicines. We are paving the way with the first-ever natural psychedelic drug candidates.

Learn more at www.filament.health and on Twitter , Instagram and LinkedIn .

FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

Certain statements and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information," respectively, under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "may", "will", "should", "believe", "intends", "forecast", "plans", "guidance" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but reflect the current expectations of management of Filament regarding future results or events and are based on information currently available to them. Certain material factors and assumptions were applied in providing these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements discussed in this press release may include, but are not limited to, information concerning the impact of the patent on the Company's business and the ability of the Company to secure future patents. Forward-looking statements regarding the Company are based on the Company's estimates and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of Filament to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including status of patent applications and the ability to secure patents. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Filament will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

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SOURCE Filament Health Corp.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/08/c5875.html
FLYPLAY HF





Passenger numbers tripled in April and 80.8% load factor

PLAY saw a substantial increase in passenger traffic in April, carrying a total of 102,499 passengers compared to 86,661 in March. The load factor in April was 80.8%. This represents a significant growth from the same period last year when 36,669 passengers were flown, and the load factor was 72.4%. This means that the passenger numbers for April 2023 nearly tripled between years.

PLAYs routes to and from Barcelona and London had an impressive load factor of over 90% in April, and as before our leisure destinations were also very strong.

April continued an increase in the number of passengers traveling to Iceland, reflecting increased awareness and trust in PLAY in foreign markets. Of all passengers traveling with PLAY in April 2023, 33.5% were traveling from Iceland, 31% were traveling to Iceland, and 35.5% were connecting passengers (VIA). PLAY is committed to growing its market share in the important market segment of tourists coming to Iceland and this continued increase demonstrates a strengthening market position in the international markets.

In keeping with the trend of very strong sales in 2023, April has proven to be yet another great sales month for PLAY. Furthermore, the airline is experiencing a continuing growth trend in average yields and ancillary revenue. Forward bookings remain strong, with a marked improvement in booking status compared to the same period last year. This bodes well for the airline's continued growth and success in the months ahead.

In April, PLAY maintained an impressive record of punctuality, with 85.3% of its flights arriving on schedule. This is a testament to the company's operational teams and crew, and it highlights the airline's commitment to delivering a reliable and efficient service. PLAY's punctuality has been significantly better than its major competitors over the past months, making it one of the most dependable carriers in its core markets.

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Service to Athens extended and year-round service to Lisbon

In 2023, PLAY will operate flights to 38 destinations in Europe and North America with a fleet of ten aircraft. As part of the long-term investment of building a route network, we plan to introduce several new enhancements to the winter schedule 2023-24, including:

Adding afternoon departures to Copenhagen and London to provide our customers with better weekend city break products and more flexibility

Year-round service to Lisbon

Extending our service to Athens until beginning of January 2024 due to strong demand

More capacity to Tenerife and Alicante

Introduce two new destinations, Fuerteventura and Verona

Birgir Jonsson CEO:

April was a very solid month for us operationally as we welcomed over 100 thousand passengers on board and achieved an on-time performance of 85.3%. Spring is a challenging period for a fast-growing airline as we are ramping up our operation very significantly for the summer season, putting four new aircraft into operation and opening many new destinations across our network. New destinations bring a short-term strain on utilization as they tend to have an imbalance for the first few weeks, for example, more passengers travel outbound than inbound. We are therefore quite satisfied with a load factor of 80.8% in April as we see our existing destinations performing very well as the new ones will also do after the first few weeks when this directionality issue disappears. Our revenue is growing, in particular ancillary revenue, which has grown by more than 25% per passenger in recent months, our booking flow is very strong and we just closed the first quarter of the year with positive cash flow, a clear sign of the strong commercial momentum we are experiencing. Every day I see the team at Play working as one with a strong focus and ambition and we are all absolutely determined to make the all-important summer season a great success!



Attachment




Food Lion

$50 million renovations support expanded assortment and easier shopping experience to meet customers needs

Food Lion healthy meal solutions

Remodeled stores include new features for easy, fresh and affordable shopping

SALISBURY, N.C., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With a capital investment exceeding $50 million, Food Lion is unveiling remodeled stores in Wilmington, NC, that feature a new, easier shopping experience for customers. On May 10, Food Lion will hold ribbon-cutting events in the Wilmington area at 24 stores, with five more to follow soon. The investment includes remodeling the stores, providing eCommerce at every store through pickup and/or home delivery options, training and developing associates to provide the best customer experience and giving back to local communities. While renovating and refreshing its look, the redesign reflects Food Lions continued commitment to the towns and cities it serves, providing an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience.



Food Lion has been a proud neighbor in the Wilmington community for 40 years, said Meg Ham, President, Food Lion. From a brand-new look and feel to more convenient grab-and-go items to make any meal easier, each store has made big changes with our customers in mind. We remain committed to keeping our prices low every day, offering great promotions and other opportunities to save. We are excited for our neighbors to experience the enhancements we have made just for them.

Inspired by feedback from customers and associates, all stores now feature self-checkout lanes and are refreshed with new decor reflecting an enhanced shopping experience.

Two dozen stores will open to the public on May 10, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:45 a.m. Afterward, the first 100 customers in line will receive a mystery gift card valued up to $250, free reusable shopping bag and trunk organizer.

Remodeled stores include new features for easy, fresh and affordable shopping

Store upgrades include an extensive product assortment with a specific focus on a variety of affordable and easy meal solutions that are ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook or ready-to-heat. Customers will also have more healthy options and a large selection of organic, gluten-free and plant-based items to choose from including Natures Promise, Food Lions affordable brand of wholesome and organic products made with no artificial flavors, preservatives or synthetic colors.

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Food Lions enhancements also include offering convenience for shoppers with Food Lion To Go grocery pickup or home delivery service. Online orders may be placed on the Food Lion To Go website or the Food Lion To Go app. The convenient service allows customers to place an order with the click of a button while experiencing the same low prices and fresh food items they receive in the store.

Demonstrating care to its neighbors and communities with a commitment to sustainability, Food Lions enhanced stores feature energy-efficient overhead LED lighting and refrigerated cases with doors. The modern solutions impart ambiance, enhance fresh product assortment and reduce energy costs, helping reduce Food Lions environmental footprint.

Through its Local Goodness program, Food Lion stores offer a wide variety of regional products sourced from local growers or manufacturers, serving customers in a more meaningful way with products that are the heart and soul of the community. A list of additional North Carolina-based suppliers that may be featured in the store can be found online.

Learn more about the hours of operation, specific services each store offers, and the weekly ad flyer with special celebratory pricing for these stores.

Food Lion Feeds supports food banks to diversify capacities and service

Working in partnership to help address food insecurity, Food Lion has also contributed $500,000 through its hunger-relief platform, Food Lion Feeds, to support the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina at Wilmington. The investment supports the 3,000-square-foot commercial kitchen, the first commercial kitchen operated by the nonprofit organization.

With the cost of so many of the things we buy every day increasing, we need the support from our retail donors. Food Lion has been an incredible partner to food banks across their footprint, said Beth Gaglione, Branch Director for the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina at Wilmington. The Food Bank has been able to build a state-of-the-art new facility in Wilmington with an amazing commercial kitchen thanks to Food Lion Feeds. Now we need to fill it with nutritious, healthy food to meet the need of our community. We know we can count on our friends at Food Lion.

In addition to expanded meal production, the community kitchen will offer an opportunity for culinary arts workforce development, providing qualified individuals from low-to-moderate-income families to gain sought-after skills and find immediate job opportunities, thereby stabilizing their households and working to achieve self-sufficiency.

Food Lion Feeds also provided another $32,500 to support 13 partner feeding agencies with the purchase of refrigerators and freezers. By investing in this opportunity for agency-related capacity building, Food Lion Feeds is helping to address critical needs in providing food to neighbors facing hunger.

Additionally, each Food Lion store regularly donates unsold, edible food that might otherwise go to waste to local feeding agencies to support neighbors in need throughout the year. Food Lion was the first grocery retailer in the country to establish a food rescue program with Feeding America, the nations largest domestic hunger-relief organization, more than 20 years ago. In 2022, the nearly 30 Wilmington-area stores provided approximately 1.9 million pounds through food rescue to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.

Through Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion has helped to provide more than 1 billion meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. For more information on Food Lion Feeds commitment to fight hunger, visit foodlion.com/feeds.

About Food Lion

Food Lion is an omnichannel retailer committed to nourishing its neighbors during the moments that matter most. More than 82,000 associates across 1,100+ stores deliver an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience throughout 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. Through its Count on me culture, Food Lion fosters a sense of belonging for all associates, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment that has supported LGBTQ+ equality for nearly two decades. Food Lion is the only company in the country to be named an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for 22 consecutive years. It also pioneered a food rescue program to support food-insecure neighbors. Through Food Lion Feeds, the retailer has donated more than 1 billion meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. Founded and based in Salisbury, N.C., since 1957, Food Lion is a company of Ahold Delhaize USA, the U.S. division of Zaandam-based Ahold Delhaize. For more information, visit foodlion.com.

CONTACTS: Food Lion Media Relations

704-245-3317

publicrelationsteam@foodlion.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36f8e329-14df-47de-b912-7850480bf20b




Dont count out Charlie Javice, the 31-year-old founder of financial aid site Frank, just yet. Javice has won her fee advancement case against JPMorgan Chase, which means one of the worlds biggest banks must pay her mounting legal fees.

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Attorneys for Javice and JPMorgan Chase held a call Monday with Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick, the Delaware Chancery Court judge overseeing the case, who ruled for the entrepreneur, executives said. Judge McCormick concluded that JPMorgan Chase was legally obligated to cover Javices legal bills, Bloomberg reported.

JPMorgan Chase must also pay the legal fees of Olivier Amar, Franks chief growth officer, who also sued the bank to cover his legal fees.

We continue to focus on the main issue of addressing our fraud claims against Ms. Javice and Mr. Amar through the legal process, said Pablo Rodriguez, a spokesman for JPMorgan Chase.

A Javice spokesman declined to comment.

For months, Javice has been waiting for Judge St. Jude McCormick to decide if JPMorgan Chase must pay her legal fees. Javice sold her financial aid startup Frank to JPMorgan Chase in September 2021 for $175 million. That month, she joined the bank as a managing director, head of student solutions, but was placed on administrative leave in September 2022, and was fired the following November, according to JPMorgan Chase and Javice legal documents.

In December, Javice sued the bank in Delaware Chancery Court, claiming JPMorgan Chase terminated her employment at Frank without cause and should be required to pay her legal fees, costs, and expenses, according to her claim against the bank. Just days later, JPMorgan Chase sued Javice in Delaware District Court, alleging the entrepreneur lied about the number of customers Frank had when the bank acquired the company. Javice allegedly told JPMorgan Chase that Frank had 4.25 million customers, but in reality, the company had about 300,000, according to JPMorgan Chases version of events as spelled out in legal documents. Amar, who was fired by JPMorgan in October 2022, sued the bank in January to have them cover his legal fees.

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Javices legal bills have mounted since then. In April, federal prosecutors arrested the entrepreneur, and she was released on a $2 million bond. The Department of Justice filed criminal charges against her, charging Javice with separate counts of conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, wire fraud, and bank fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, according to the lawsuit. She was also charged with one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The Securities and Exchange Commission, in a separate lawsuit, also charged Javice with fraud for making numerous misrepresentations about Franks users.

Last week, the DOJ revealed that Javice was in talks with the U.S. attorneys office for a possible disposition of the case. This means the parties are working on a resolution, which could involve a dismissal of the charges or a plea, a criminal attorney told Fortune.

The fee verdict on Monday is a big win for Javice, who has been running out of money. The biggest source of Javices wealth was presumably her cut of the money she made from selling Frank for $175 million. After they arrested Javice in April, federal prosecutors seized Javices assets and blocked her from accessing them, according to an April 21 court filing from Javice. Certain financial institutions have frozen Javices bank accounts, including her brokerage account that contained a majority of her available funds, said Michael Barlow, an attorney with law firm Abrams & Bayliss, in an April 12 letter to Judge St. Jude McCormick. As a result, Ms. Javices ability to access funds to enforce her advancement rights, to defend herself in the Delaware Federal Action, and to defend the DOJ and SEC Actions, has become imperiled, Barlow said in the letter.

If Javice had not won the ruling, she would have no way to pay for her attorneys and would be without legal representation, a person familiar with the situation said.

The ruling is also the latest win for Alex Spiro, a partner at law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, who is representing Javice. Spiro is known as Elon Musks personal attorney; he helped quash a 2019 defamation lawsuit against the billionaire when Musk called a British diver a pedo guy during a Twitter fight, the Washington Post reported. Spiro was also part of Alec Baldwins legal team after the actor was charged with involuntary manslaughter following a fatal shooting incident on a movie set.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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Rena Murshud

The Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society organized an event dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. The event was attended by embassy staff, Azerbaijanis living and studying in Egypt, as well as members of their families, founders of the Friendship Society and students studying the Azerbaijani language in society.

According to Azernews, welcoming the participants of the event, Chairman of the Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, researcher-scientist Seymur Nasirov celebrated the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, a brilliant politician of our people and Azerbaijanis living in different countries of the world, who saved Azerbaijan from the danger of division and destruction and led it to the path of development and peace. He drew attention to the fact that, according to the Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, 2023 was declared the Year of Heydar Aliyev in our country. Seymur Nasirov noted that the Friendship Society will continue a series of events on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth of the Great Leader.

Then the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Egypt Elkhan Polukhov, who called the visit of the President of Egypt Abdulfattah Al-Sisi to Azerbaijan in January 2023 a clear example of the high level of relations and cooperation between our countries, spoke. He said that friendly relations between the two countries are based on ancient history, and our peoples are bound by great respect and kindred feelings. He stressed that noticeable development in all areas will continue in the near future to an even higher level. He highly appreciated the participation of representatives of the local community, friendly to our country, together with the Azerbaijani community in the events held by our diaspora.

Speaking at the event, Baghdadi Imam, General Director for External Relations of the Ministry of Higher Education of the Arab Republic of Egypt, and Ahmad Abdu Tarabek, a research journalist on the problems of Central Asia and the Caucasus, noted that the great leader had exceptional merits in the development of relations between Egypt and Azerbaijan.

At the end of the event, Azerbaijani-speaking students of the Friendship Society read poems dedicated to the Great Leader.

It should be noted that at the moment about 450 young people from 42 countries are studying free of charge in the courses of the Egypt-Azerbaijan Friendship Society, in addition to the Azerbaijani language, in various subjects.
Freename

Zurich, Switzerland, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Freename is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Ethermail , leading Web3 Email Provider.







Thanks to this partnership, users can now use Freename domains to send and receive web3 and web2 emails on Ethermail, the first email solution setting the standard for anonymous and encrypted wallet-to-wallet communication and P2P communication. This integration benefits more than 100,000 already active users in total on the Ethermail and Freename platforms. The use of Web3 email overcomes some of the limitations of traditional email, including phishing attacks, spamming by marketers, and lack of anonymity. Of course, web2 email is still the most widely used product today with over 4 billion registered mailboxes, which is why Ethermail offers the possibility of using Freename domains to send messages to traditional email as well. This is an important connection between the web3 and the web2 worlds that facilitates both early adopters of this new technology - coming from the traditional world - and those who have been using it for a longer time.

How do domains work with web3 emails? The functioning of domains with web3 emails is conceptually simple. First, the domain is connected to a wallet (on Freename), which in turn is connected to a web3 email account (on Ethermail). Therefore, when you send an email from one domain to another, it is actually the two wallets associated with the domains that communicate. This process, referred to as wallet-to-wallet communication, has the important advantage of being anchored on the blockchain: as a result, each message has both the guarantee of anonymity and the security of being printed on the blockchain (in the form of a smart contract) forever. That said, Ethermail and Freename members must own a domain to use email, which can be purchased on Freename, and associate it with a wallet. This functionality is made possible in one click within Freename's domain management panel.

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Davide Vicini said, "Integration with Ethermail is a big step for both the web3 and web2 worlds, bringing as many users as possible to fast and easy communication via web3 domains."

Shant Kevonian, CEO of Ethermail: "We are happy to welcome Freename to our platform and excited to integrate their domains into our web3 email solution. This partnership enables us to offer our users the possibility to communicate with easy to memorize aliases while still benefiting from the advantages of web3 email, such as enhanced security, privacy, and anonymity. By combining our expertise and resources, we can bring the benefits of blockchain-based communication to a wider audience, and we are looking forward to exploring more opportunities for collaboration in the future."



CONTACT: Ethermail Media Details Schaan, Liechtenstein Shant Kevonian marketing-at-ethersuite.io Mattia Martone Freename press-at-freename.io




Future Market Insights Global and Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

The United States is predicted to dominate the petrol meter market in terms of revenue, with an estimated market size of US$ 1.0 Billion by 2033. China is dominating the gas meters industry with lucrative opportunities for new entrants. The healthcare industry is expected to account for the dominating share of the market.

NEWARK, Del, May 07, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The gas Meters Market is Projected to Reach US$ 5.7 Billion, with a CAGR of 4.5% by 2033, Due to several variables, the demand for gas meters is anticipated to expand significantly in the future years. The increasing demand for natural gas is a key factor since it is a more environmentally friendly fuel source than coal or oil. Construction industry expansion is also influencing the demand for gas meters since they are critical to the safe and effective use of natural gas.



However, the gas meters industry faces several challenges that must be overcome. The high expense of putting up and maintaining gas meters is one of the critical problems facing the industry. As a result, the market is developing more slowly than expected in several areas.

The gas meters industry offers several expansion possibilities. Smart gas meters, which are more efficient and precise in monitoring gas use, are in high demand, due to growing interest in renewable energy sources. Manufacturers of gas meters may also anticipate new business prospects as a result of the widespread use of IoT systems.

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Gas meters can also be remotely monitored and controlled thanks to advancements in wireless communication technology. One of the current developments in the gas metering industry. In addition, there has been a rise in the use of gas meters that include cutting-edge analytics and AI for predictive maintenance and continuous monitoring of gas use. As new technologies develop and demand for natural gas rises. The gas meters industry as a whole is primed for expansion and innovation.

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Key Takeaways:

The United States is likely to lead the gas meters industry in terms of revenue, with a projected market value of US$ 1.0 Billion by 2033.

The gas meter industry in the United Kingdom is expected to reach US$ 0.2 Billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 4.3% during the forecast period.

The Chinese gas meter industry is expected to reach US$ 1.18 Billion by 2033, with a 4.3% CAGR between 2023 and 2033.

The Japan gas meter industry is expected to reach US$ 0.86 Billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 4.3%.

The gas meter industry in South Korea is predicted to reach US$ 0.26 Billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 4.1% from 2023 to 2033.

With a predicted market share of over 30% in 2023, the healthcare sector is likely to lead the gas meters market by end-use industry.

Smart gas meters are estimated to dominate the industry in 2023, with a market share of over 65%.



How Fierce Is the Competition Among the Players in the Gas Meters Market?

Market share is fiercely contested among the top companies in the gas meters industry. Innovative product solutions and a massive market share have allowed companies like CGI, Inc., Badger Meter, Inc., Apator SA (Apator Group), Diehl Metering GmbH, and Advanced Electronics Company to establish themselves as industry leaders.

These leaders are spending heavily on research and development to expand their product line and maintain a competitive edge. To further their reach and consumer base, they are also concentrating on strategic partnerships and collaborations.

New entrants, with their differentiated products and lower prices, are also a factor in the industry's rapid evolution. As a result, competition is fierce, putting stress on the industry's established companies to maintain product superiority via ongoing innovation.

Regulatory constraints, fluctuating raw material costs, and shifting consumer tastes are all factors working against the industry. Companies are concentrating on providing affordable solutions and adopting environmentally friendly procedures. Moreover, strengthening their distribution networks to survive in this market.

Global demand for natural gas, smart meter usage, and technical improvements are all elements that contribute to the industry's rapid expansion.

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Market By Categorization:

By Type:

Basic

Smart

By End Use:

Automotive

Semiconductor & Electronics

Food & Beverages

Healthcare

Other End Uses



By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

East Asia

South Asia

Oceania

The Middle East & Africa



For any Queries Related to this Report, Ask our Analyst @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-17146

Table of Content (ToC):

1. Executive Summary | Gas Meter 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. Product Life Cycle Analysis

3.5. Supply Chain Analysis

3.6. Investment Feasibility Matrix

3.7. Value Chain Analysis

3.8. PESTLE and Porters Analysis

3.9. Regulatory Landscape

3.10. Regional Parent Market Outlook

3.11. Production and Consumption Statistics

3.12. Import and Export Statistics

4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033

4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis, 2018 to 2022

4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Projections, 2023 to 2033

5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product

5.1. Introduction / Key Findings

5.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis By Product, 2018 to 2022

5.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis and Forecast By Product, 2023 to 2033

5.4. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis By Product, 2018 to 2022

5.5. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Product, 2023 to 2033

6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End User

6.1. Introduction / Key Findings

6.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis By End User, 2018 to 2022

6.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis and Forecast By End User, 2023 to 2033

6.4. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis By End User, 2018 to 2022

6.5. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By End User, 2023 to 2033

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Explore FMIs Extensive Coverage in Industrial Automation Domain:

Heavy Duty Heat Pump Market Size: The global heavy-duty heat pump market is expected to garner a valuation of US$ 3.2 Billion in 2023, recording a CAGR of 4.3% from 2023 to 2033. The market is likely to secure US$ 4.8 Billion in 2033.

Plain Bearing Market Demand: The global plain bearing market size is projected to flourish at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2033. It is anticipated to reach a valuation of about US$ 20,850.8 Million by 2033. The global market is expected to cross US$ 12,019.3 Million in 2023.

Large Synchronous Motor Market Growth: The global large synchronous motor market is estimated to garner US$ 11.4 Billion in 2033, recording a CAGR of 5.5% from 2023 to 2033. The market is likely to secure US$ 6.7 Billion in 2023.

Silicon Anode Battery Market Analysis: The global silicon anode battery market is estimated to garner US$ 131.6 Billion in 2033, recording a CAGR of 47.5% from 2023 to 2033. The market is likely to secure US$ 2.7 Billion in 2023.

Backflow Preventers Market Forecast: The global backflow preventers market is estimated to garner US$ 13.8 Billion in 2033, recording a CAGR of 4.5% from 2023 to 2033. The market is likely to secure US$ 8.9 Billion in 2023.

Process Liquid Analyzer Market Revenue: The global process liquid analyzer market is estimated to be worth around US$ 2,861.9 Million in 2023. The overall demand is anticipated to rise at a healthy CAGR of 5.5% between 2023 and 2033, totaling a valuation of over US$ 4,888.5 Million by 2033.

Australia Concrete Pump Market Share: The Australian concrete pump market is set to reach a valuation of US$ 208.4 Million in 2023, and is likely to surpass a CAGR of 6.0% between 2023 and 2033. In 2033, the global market is predicted to generate revenues upwards of US$ 372.3 Million.

Modular Instruments Market Sales: The global modular instruments market size is likely to be valued at US$ 1.8 Billion in 2023. The market revenue is anticipated to expand at 2.3X and surpass US$ 4.2 Billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 8.5%.

Sealless Magnetic Drive Pump Market Volume: The global sealless magnetic drive pump market size reached around US$ 637.7 Million in 2022. Over the next ten years, global sealless magnetic drive pump sales are likely to soar at 6.4% CAGR.

Machine Control System Market Trends: The global machine control system market growth is expected to register a healthy CAGR of 6.5% during the assessment period. The market is estimated to be valued at US$ 15,436.8 Million by 2033. In 2023, the market is assessed to generate revenue of US$ 8,223.6 Million.

About Future Market Insights (FMI):

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, Stevie Award - recipient market research organization and a member of Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) provides in-depth insights into governing factors elevating the demand in the market. It discloses opportunities that will favour the market growth in various segments on the basis of Source, Application, Sales Channel and End Use over the next 10 years.

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--CancerVision designed to democratize fast, affordable cancer analysis and diagnosis with broadened access to complete genomic information--

--Company opened San Diego-based corporate headquarters--

SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Genome Insight, a leading precision medicine and genomics company, announced today the U.S. launch of CancerVision, their innovative whole genome sequencing (WGS) test designed to provide accurate, timely and medically meaningful insights that collectively guide personalized healthcare decisions. The company also announced the opening of their corporate headquarters located in San Diego, California.

GI logo

"Currently, physicians at major medical centers typically rely on targeted genomic panels to inform decisions, but that data is often incomplete," said Dr. Young Seok Ju, Founder and Chief Genomics Officer of Genome Insight. "Up to this point, WGS has not been a viable option for cancer diagnosis because the data are too big, complex and expensive. Our advanced bioinformatics, computational analysis and medical expertise summarizes detailed cancer genome information in digestible and actionable ways for patients and physicians, translating a once distant technology into a powerful, user-friendly resource across cancer patient populations and changing the paradigm when it comes to evaluating the best treatment path forward."

CancerVision combines state-of-the-art proprietary bioinformatics and computational sequencing of individual patient cancer samples to determine whole genome mutational profiles which are then analyzed and curated for physicians in an easy-to-use format that captures and prioritizes the most relevant and actionable insights, enabling timely decision-making including:

Genetic variations, including point mutations, structural variations, and gene fusions, linked to FDA-approved treatments

Additional genomic findings associated with personalized treatment approaches

Applicable clinical trials to assist with future steps

Complete access to tumor mutational burden, mutational signature, and inherited germline polymorphisms to enhance the decision-making process

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The ability to understand an individual's complete cancer genome is contingent on pinpointing previously unidentified mutations that are critical to optimize treatment, yet current targeted sequencing methods can only confirm known cancer mutations from previous cohorts. Additionally, panel designs are specific to each research institution and biased to common cancer types, which leads to variability in testing and access limitations for those not living near major cancer centers or with rare, atypical cancer types. Genome Insight's model enables a more unbiased genome sequencing not reliant on specific panels that also democratizes access broadly to community physicians everywhere. The advanced bioinformatics and computational power enable results at a fraction of the speed and cost previously possible.

"We are an organization of medical doctors with computational know-how that enables us to harness this incredibly important data for real-time, real-world application for cancer patients and beyond," said Jehee Suh, Chief Executive Officer of Genome Insight. "Our goal is to sequence genomic data for one million cancer patients, progressing our understanding of cancer for improved patient outcomes."

The U.S. launch comes on the heels of data presented at the American Association of Cancer Research 2023 annual meeting in which CancerVision demonstrated a more thorough analysis of specific genetic mutations in breast cancers than traditional BRCA gene testing and a recently announced collaboration with Ultima Genomics combining the company's proprietary bioinformatics with Ultima Genomics' low-cost sequencing to make WGS an affordable reality for cancer patients.

Following CancerVision, Genome Insight intends to expand testing to genomic based therapeutic areas beyond cancer, including rare disease.

About CancerVision

CancerVision was designed to empower healthcare providers with the information necessary to make informed decisions tailored to an individual's unique genomic profile. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) provides a more complete view (>99%) of a cancer's genetic make-up than any other test currently available, including targeted panels and whole exome testing. CancerVision can provide detailed information about genomic mutations and other biomarkers that may be driving a patient's cancer. This information can support healthcare providers in identifying potential treatment approaches, such as targeted therapies and clinical trials, tailored to an individual's specific cancer type and genetic makeup.

About Genome Insight

Genome Insight is a precision medicine whole genome platform company with the goal to accelerate the use of whole genome sequencing (WGS) for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment for cancer and rare diseases. Genome Insight's proprietary platform is an automated WGS pipeline coupled with a bioinformatics-powered digital solution that rapidly generates meaningful medical insights, making it possible to use WGS in real-life clinical settings. Furthermore, this platform is applied in the research setting to advance novel therapeutic strategies in cancer and rare diseases. The company's headquarters is in San Diego (US) with offices in Korea (Seoul and Daejeon) and Hong Kong. To learn more, please visit www.genomeinsight.net

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SOURCE Genome Insight
LANDOVER, Md., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Giant Food, the leading greater Washington, D.C. regional grocery chain, today announces a donation of $100,370 that will support local farmers located throughout the greater Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region through a partnership with the American Farmland Trust's (AFT) Brighter Future Fund.

From April 7 through April 27 of 2023, Giant customers were given the option to round up their grocery purchases to the nearest dollar at checkout to contribute to the funding. This donation will be allocated to help six local farmers improve farm viability, access, transfer or permanently protect farmland, or adopt regenerative agricultural practices.

Giant's donation will support local farmers throughout the region with grants up to $10,000 per project to help farmers. In 2022, Giant raised $108,380 to benefit farms like:

Sisters of the Soil Community Farm : Part of the 10-acre Urban Farm Incubator at Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, a group of three farmers manage half of an acre and produce vegetables, fruits, nuts and other herbs.

Maryland Line Farm : Located in Hazelton, West Virginia, Maryland Line Farm grows and produces vegetables, berries and maple syrup using ecological and regenerative farming methods.

Dodo Farms : Dodo Farms is owned by husband-and-wife farmers from Nigeria. The Montgomery County, Maryland-based farm, which has expanded from one to more than three acres since 2018, is used to grow a variety of vegetables.

Chili Hill Farm : Located in Smithfield, Virginia, Chili Hill Farm grows seasonal vegetables and operates a small retail shop selling fresh produce and various Thai foods.

La Botanica : Operating on less than an acre in Fairfax, Virginia, La Botanica produces naturally grown no-till flowers, Indigo and fresh Puerto Rican produce.

Love Bug Farm: Love Bug Farm, run by a former restaurant cook turned farmer, grows all of its vegetables using regenerative farming practices on an incubator farm space. Based in Upper Marlboro Maryland, Love Bug Farm grows vegetables for wholesale markets.

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"As a business dedicated to supporting its local region, we're proud to know this money will be used toward increasing the resiliency of farms within our communities," said Diane Couchman, Vice President Category Management, Non-Perishables at Giant Food. "Partnering with our vendors like Tillamook and non-profit organizations such as AFT, allows us to help the hard-working farmers that supply our area with fresh, locally grown produce and flowers."

AFT's Brighter Future Fund launched in 2020 through a partnership with Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA), a farmer-owned co-op with one of the fastest growing dairy brands (Tillamook) in the country. The Fund was created to help farmers across the country start, grow and sustain farms in the face of challenges, including COVID-19, severe weather and shifting markets. This year, Giant Food was among the list of proud partners across the country dedicated to supporting the future of farming.

"When we helped American Farmland Trust launch the Brighter Future Fund in 2020, we set out to rally fans and businesses to support farmers across the country who are keeping our food supply strong," said Patrick Criteser, president & CEO of Tillamook County Creamery Association. "Giant Food has gone above and beyond to keep this important Fund thriving by engaging its customers and ensuring that farmers and farmland continue to get the support they deserve."

"With the help of partners like Giant and their shoppers, the Brighter Future Fund offered grants to more than 120 farmers nationwide this year, said David Haight, Vice President of Programs at American Farmland Trust. "These grants will help underserved farmers implement projects that increase farm viability and resilience  from growing their farming operations, to installing new fencing and irrigation systems, and purchasing needed equipment."

For more information on Giant Food, visit giantfood.com/community. For information about the Brighter Future Fund visit farmland.org/brighter-future. For information about TCCA's All For Farmer's Coalition supporting the Brighter Future Fund visit Tillamook.com/all-for-farmers.

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 27 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.

ABOUT AMERICAN FARMLAND TRUST

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. AFT launched the conservation agriculture movement and continues to raise public awareness through our No Farms, No Food message. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.8 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres and supported thousands of farm families.

About Tillamook County Creamery Association

Founded in 1909 as a farmer-owned cooperative, Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) recently achieved the distinction as a Certified B Corporation (B Corp) and prides itself on its commitment to bringing to market the most consistent, best tasting and highest quality dairy products made in the most natural way possible. Guided by the belief that everyone deserves real food that makes them feel good every day, Tillamook produces internationally recognized, award-winning cheese as well as exceptional ice cream, butter, cream cheese spreads, yogurt and sour cream, made with unwavering values that never sacrifice or compromise quality for profit. TCCA is owned by a group of farming families, primarily based in Tillamook County, Oregon. TCCA operates production facilities in Tillamook and Boardman, Oregon and employs more than 900 people throughout the state. The Tillamook Creamery is the largest tourist attraction on the coast of Oregon and one of the most popular in the state, attracting more than one million visitors each year. For more information on TCCA and Tillamook, visit Tillamook.com.

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SOURCE Giant Food
NEWARK, DE / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / The colored gemstones market is predicted to be valued at US$ 1.55 Billion in 2023 and US$ 4.64 Billion by 2033. Over the projection period, sales of colored gemstones are expected to increase at a CAGR of 11.6%.

The world of colored gemstones is a magical and fascinating one, where beauty, rarity, and value converge in a dazzling array of colors and shapes. From the regal red of rubies to the sapphire blue of the ocean, colored gemstones have captivated people for centuries, making them a timeless symbol of luxury, elegance, and sophistication.

Today, the colored gemstones market is a thriving and dynamic industry that spans the globe, from the mines of Africa to the workshops of Europe and Asia. It encompasses a wide range of gemstones, from the traditional big three' of rubies, emeralds, and sapphires to a plethora of other gems such as tourmaline, garnet, topaz, and many more.

Among the prominent factors is the rising demand from consumers for unique, rare, and high-quality gemstones that reflect their individuality and style. The market is also being driven by the increasing popularity of colored gemstones among jewelry designers and manufacturers, who are incorporating these gemstones into their creations in innovative and creative ways.

Find an overview of this report in Sample report available in PDF format@

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-13041

Key Takeaways:

By product type, colored diamonds account for around 35% of all colored gemstones demand

About 40% of all colored gemstones are expected to be used to craft jewellery and ornaments

The United States to be a promising market for colored gemstones, generating over 1/3 rd of global demand

Manufacturers are looking to widen their investments in China, expected to generate 15% of the total revenue

From 2023 to 2033, the colored gemstones market is expected to grow by nearly 3x

"With interest in aesthetics rising, consumers are looking to invest in colored gemstones, mostly preferring to purchase colored jewellery and ornaments. Among all gemstones, sales of colored diamonds are registering maximum sales, opening up wide revenue prospects," says an analyst at FMI.

Story continues

Talk with our analyst and get the complete information of report now @

https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-13041

How Key Players are revolutionizing the Manufacturing of Colored Gemstones?

The colored gemstones industry has a very competitive environment due to the large number of companies that operate globally. Some of the top players in the market are:

Anglo American Plc

Gemfields Group Ltd

Petra Diamonds Ltd.

Rockwell Diamonds Inc.

Gem diamonds Ltd.

PJSC ALROSA

Swarovski Group

Botswana Diamonds Plc

Dominion Diamond Corporation

Mountain Province diamonds, Inc.

Trans Hex Group Ltd.

MIF Gems Co. Ltd.

Greenland Ruby

Merlin Diamonds Ltd.

Fura Gems, Inc.

The manufacturing of colored gemstones has been revolutionized in recent years with the introduction of new technologies and innovative techniques by key players in the industry. These players are constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional manufacturing methods to produce high-quality gemstones with greater efficiency and accuracy.

The Swarovski Group has invested heavily in research and development to create new technologies such as the Advanced Crystal System, which allows for the production of crystal in a wider range of colors and cuts. Swarovski has also developed precision cutting machines that can produce highly intricate and precise cuts, resulting in gemstones that are more brilliant and reflective.

Gemfields has pioneered a new approach to mining and processing colored gemstones that is ethical and sustainable. Their approach includes responsible sourcing of gemstones, community development initiatives, and environmental conservation efforts. They have also introduced innovative processing techniques such as sorting and grading systems that ensure consistent quality and traceability of their gemstones.

Dominion Diamond Corporation is also a prominent player that is revolutionizing the manufacturing of colored gemstones through their focus on diamond cutting and polishing. They have developed advanced cutting and polishing techniques that enhance the beauty and brilliance of diamonds, resulting in higher quality gemstones that are more valuable.

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Key Segments:

By Product Type:

Colored Diamond

Emerald

Ruby

Sapphire

Others

By End Use:

Jewellery & Ornaments Bangles Necklaces Pendants Earrings Rings Anklets Brooches

Luxury Arts

By Product Format:

Natural

Synthetic

By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East and Africa

Table of Content (ToC):

1. Executive Summary | Colored Gemstones 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 Buyer's

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

3.8. PESTLE and Porter's Analysis

3.9. Regulatory Landscape

3.9.1. By Key Regions

3.9.2. By Key Countries

3.10. Regional Parent Market Outlook

3.11. Production and Consumption Statistics

3.12. Import and Export Statistics

4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033

4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) Analysis, 2018 to 2022

4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Units) 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

Explore FMI's Extensive Ongoing Coverage on Consumer Product Domain:

India Colored Gemstones Market Size: The India colored gemstones market should attain US$ 707.8 Million in 2023. Between 2023 and 2033, a robust 10.5% CAGR should facilitate market acceleration.

Gemstone Cosmetics Powder Market Share: The gemstone cosmetics powder market is expected to express steady growth dynamics through the forecast period.

Gemstone Market Trend: As per newly released data by Future Market Insights (FMI), the gemstone market is estimated at US$ 32.38 Billion in 2023 and is likely to reach US$ 55.96 Billion by 2033.

Demi-fine Jewellery Market Demand: The global demi-fine jewelry market is expected to be valued at US$ 2,541.40 Million in 2023, likely to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3% anticipated from 2023 to 2033

Luxury Fine Jewellery Market Forecast: The global luxury fine jewelry market size is estimated to be valued at US$ 45,700.0 Million in 2022 and further grow at 6.5% CAGR from 2022 to 2032.

Beer Dispensing Machine Market Outlook: The global beer dispensing machine market size is estimated to be US$ 888.7 Million in 2023. It is projected to reach US$ 2,013.9 Million by 2033.

Toothpaste Tablets Market Sales: The toothpaste tablets market is estimated to be valued at US$ 120.2 Million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 219.1 Million by 2033.

Facial Oil Market Values: As per Future Market Insights (FMI), the facial oil industry is expected to be worth US$ 1,069.0 Million in 2023.

Beauty Subscription Market Analysis: Newly released Beauty Subscription Market analysis report by Future Market Insights reveals that global sales of Beauty Subscription in 2022 were held at US$ 723.7 Million

United Kingdom Curtain Walling Market: United Kingdom Curtain Walling Market by Type, Application, Material Type & Region | Forecast 2023 to 2033

About Future Market Insights, Inc.

Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, Stevie Award - recipient market research organization, and a member of Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) provides in-depth insights into governing factors elevating the demand in the market. It discloses opportunities that will favor the market growth in various segments on the basis of Source, Application, Sales Channel, and End Use over the next 10 years.

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For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com

SOURCE: Future Market Insights, Inc.





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NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A latest research report [115+] pages with 360-Degree visibility, titled "Silicon on Insulator Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Wafer Size (200mm and less than 200mm, 300mm); By Wafer Type; By Technology; By Product; By Application; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032" published by Polaris Market Research in its research repository.

Polaris_Market_Research_Logo

"According to research report, the global silicon on insulator market size/share was valued at USD 1.39 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 5.83 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 15.5% during the forecast period."

What is Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI)? How Big is Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) Market Size & Share?

Overview

Silicon on insulator (SOI) is a semiconductor manufacturing technique that generates more efficient, higher performance (dynamic) devices compared to conventional bulk silicon methods. SOI works by placing a silicon oxide between a thin layer of siliconinsulator and the silicon substrate. In comparison to current bulk complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-based circuits, SOI chips can operate up to 15% quicker and consume 20% less power. Other advantages of silicon on insulators include higher packing densities, complete dielectric isolation, and radiation hardness.

SOI technology is widely used in applications such as microprocessors, high-speed digital and analog circuits, and radiation-hardened electronics for space and military applications. In addition, this technology is particularly useful in high-speed digital and analog circuits, microprocessors, and memory devices. Increasing growth of the semiconductor industry majorly drives the silicon on insulator market growth.

Request Sample Copy of Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) Market Research Report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/silicon-on-insulator-market/request-for-sample

(The sample of this report is readily available on request. The report sample contains a brief introduction to the research report, Table of Contents, Graphical introduction of regional analysis, Top players in the market with their revenue analysis and our research methodology.)

Our Sample Report May Includes:

2032 Updated Report Introduction, Overview, and In-depth industry analysis.

115+ Pages Research Report (Inclusion of Updated Research).

Provide Chapter-wise guidance on Request.

2023 Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share & Trends.

Includes Updated List of table & figures.

Updated Report Includes Top Market Players with their Business Strategy, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis.

Story continues

Some of the Top Market Players Are:

Soitec

Shin-Etsu Chemical

Global Wafers

SUMCO Corporation

Shanghai Simgui Technology

GlobalFoundries

STMicroelectronics

Tower Semiconductor

NXP Semiconductors

Murata Manufacturing

For Additional Information on Key Players, Request to Download Sample Pages Here: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/silicon-on-insulator-market/request-for-sample

Prominent Growth Driving Factors

AI and cloud computing: Increasing demand for servers to support applications like AI and cloud computing is expected to drive growth in the computing and data-storage market. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, this demand could result in a growth rate of 4 to 6 percent in the market. This, in turn, will drive the silicon on insulator market size.

5G rollout and smartphone use: Growing rollout of 5G has encouraged emerging markets to shift from lower to mid-tier segments. Also, the rising use of smartphones has been fueling the majority of wireless sector growth. Thus, increasing demand for energy-efficient and high-performance electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops is boosting the market growth.

Surge in demand in automotive applications: Increased demand for the silicon on insulators from automotive applications is expected to create growth opportunities for the silicon on insulator market. This is because of the growing investments by leading players or manufacturers in automotive industry for the development of driverless automobile technologies such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

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Recent Trends Influencing the Market

5G and future 6G technology: In 2019, 5G services were introduced, and 6G is expected to be launched in 2030. 5G produces a huge development with 10 times faster response and data transmission speeds compared to 4G. Its speed, low latency, and dependability will also enable a wide range of applications. This is one of the prominent silicon on insulator market trends bolstering the industry expansion.

Audi aims to integrate FD-SOI in autonomous vehicles: Audi, one of the leading automakers, is aiming to integrate FD-SOI with the parts or sensors used in its autonomous vehicles. In addition, the operation of these autos requires high-speed, small, and low-power electronic equipment. As a result, there is an increase in demand for wafers made utilizing SOI technology.

Segmental Analysis

300mm wafer size segment is anticipated to grow the fastest rate during the forecast period

Based on wafer size, 300mm wafer size category witnessed the largest silicon on insulator market share in 2022. Due to radio frequency, the manufacturing sector is making many changes to improve the output of 300 mm wafers. Further, many wafer players are accelerating their output to meet demand, and many foundries in various nations are focusing on expanding their processes for the 300 mm wafers, which is likely to support the segment growth during the forecast period.

FD SOI wafer type held the major share in 2022

By wafer type silicon on insulator market segmentation, FD-SOI wafers segment dominated the market and is expected to continue to dominate the market in the coming years. This growth can be attributed to its advantages, such as high flexibility, easy implementation, low cost, lowered complexity, lower leakage currents, and the ability to optimize power/performance trade-offs. Also, in order to fulfill the growing demand for FD-SOI wafers, various FD-SOI wafer producers are focusing on product launches and partnerships with other SOI market players.

MEMS devices is anticipated to account for the significant revenue share throughout the forecast period

Based on products, MEMS devices category is projected to register the greatest CAGR during the anticipated period. Various electronic systems and gadgets, including smartphones, tablets, and automotive systems, are progressively integrating MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) components, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors. Thus, rising demand for these devices is projected to boost the market growth.

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Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) Market: Report Scope & Coverage

Report Attribute Details Revenue forecast in 2032 USD 5.83 Billion Market size value in 2023 USD 1.60 Billion Expected CAGR Growth 15.5% from 2023  2032 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023  2032 Top Market Players Soitec, Shin-Etsu Chemical, GlobalWafers, SUMCO Corporation, Shanghai Simgui Technology, GlobalFoundries, STMicroelectronics, Tower Semiconductor, NXP Semiconductors and Murata Manufacturing Segments Covered By Wafer Size, Wafer Type, By Technology, By Product, By Application, By Region Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options

Geographic Overview

The demand in Asia Pacific is predicted to register a significant growth

On the basis of geography, Asia Pacific is likely to show largest CAGR in the silicon on insulator market during the forecast period owing to the rise in demand for consumer devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart wearables. Moreover, the growth of a number of semiconductor foundry companies and wafer producers, as well as rising government initiatives, contributes to the market expansion. In addition, rising awareness regarding energy conservation in the Asia Pacific region is fostering the demand for energy-efficient devices, which in turn positively influences the market growth.

Browse the Detail Report "Silicon on Insulator Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Wafer Size (200mm and less than 200mm, 300mm); By Wafer Type; By Technology; By Product; By Application; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032" with in-depth TOC: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/silicon-on-insulator-market

For Additional Information OR Media Enquiry, Please Mail At: sales@polarismarketresearch.com

Recent Developments

In December 2022, STMicroelectronics and Soitec collaborated on Silicon Carbide (SiC) substrates, with ST planning to adopt Soitec's SmartSiCTM technology for its 200mm substrate production over the next 18 months. This will feed ST's business of manufacturing devices and modules, with volume production expected in the medium term.

In October 2022, Shin-Etsu Chemical launched the first silicone film emulsion that is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and significantly reduces the presence of undesirable siloxanes, unlike previous silicone film-forming emulsions.

Key Offerings of This Report

Market size and share assessment for regional and country-level segments.

Business opportunities, drivers, and success factors.

Current trends and the future potential of the market.

Market segment analysis by types, applications, and regions.

The competitive status of key players within the projection timeline.

Value chain analysis with price analysis and market forecast.

Region-specific growth and development in the market.

Polaris Market Research has segmented the silicon on insulator market report based on wafer size, wafer type, technology, product and region:

By wafer size Outlook

200mm and less than 200mm

300mm

By Wafer Type Outlook

RF SOI

FD SOI

PD SOI

POWER SOI

Emerging SOI

By Technology Outlook

Smart Cut

Bonding SOI

Layer Transfer SOI

By Product Outlook

RF FEM Products

MEMS Devices

Power Products

Optical Communication

Image Sensing

By Application Outlook

Consumer Electronics

Automotive

Datacom and Telecom

Industrial

Military

Defence

Aerospace

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:

Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for PMR's clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve PMR's diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide PMR's customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high growth markets, emerging business environments and latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities. Adept with a highly competent, experienced and extremely qualified team of experts comprising SMEs, analysts and consultants, we at Polaris endeavor to deliver value-added business solutions to PMR's customers.

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Meta Title: Global Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) Market Size Estimated to Attain USD 5.83 Billion Value By 2032, at 15.5% CAGR Growth: Polaris Market Research

Meta Description: Global silicon on insulator market size/share was valued at USD 1.39 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 5.83 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 15.5% during the forecast period.

Meta Keyword: Silicon on Insulator Market, Silicon on Insulator Industry, Silicon on Insulator Market Size, Silicon on Insulator Market Share, Silicon on Insulator Market Growth, Silicon on Insulator Market 2023, Silicon on Insulator Market 2032

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SOURCE Polaris Market Research
VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - GR Silver Mining Ltd. ("GR Silver Mining" or the "Company") (TSXV: GRSL) (OTCQB: GRSLF) (FRANKFURT: GPE)  today outlined its vision to continue resource growth on its wholly owned Plomosas Silver Project in Sinaloa, Mexico, through the remainder of 2023, including an update on exploration plans and corporate initiatives.

Highlights

A sound geological model with proven efficacy based on modern exploration has provided a foundation of growth for GR Silver Mining.

One of the Company's drill rigs has been mobilized to cost-effectively test the highly prospective target contact to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, aiming for further resource expansion while generating continued news flow.

Based on the recently filed National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report, a 12,500-metre drill program has been recommended pending board approval, largely in the San Marcial Area, stepping out along strike from the mineral resource eastern limit in the SE Area discovery, targeting incremental resource growth.

GR Silver owns 100% of the Plomosas Project with title and operating permits for core concessions granted under the previous mining law regime. We currently see no immediate impact from changes in Mexican mining legislation.

Cash management initiatives have commenced to reduce overhead and prioritize funds dedicated to exploration and drilling in Mexico.

Plomosas Silver Project update

On May 4, GR Silver Mining announced (News Release) the filing of the National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report (NI 43-101) for the wholly owned, 432 km2 Plomosas Silver Project in Sinaloa, Mexico. The full NI 43-101 dated May 3rd, 2023, with an effective date of March 15th, 2023, is entitled "Technical Report and Mineral Resource Update for the Plomosas Project". The report was prepared for GR Silver Mining by Dr. Gilles Arseneau, P.Geo. of ARSENEAU Consulting Services Inc. The resource update resulted from the talent, experience, and hard work of our geological team as they made an important new discovery successfully applying modern exploration on this prospective district-scale project. A total of 75 GR Silver Mining drill holes (10,500 metres) were added to the 52 holes used in the previous resource estimate, totalling 122 holes (19,000 metres) for the San Marcial Area including the SE Area discovery. At the Plomosas Mine Area, a total of 223 drill holes (16,380 metres) were drilled in specific areas of the existing underground historical mine as part of the infill drilling program.

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A total of 424 drill holes (60,020 metres) comprises the database supporting the new 3D geological modelling including the SE Area discovery and Resource Estimate. The total Indicated resource grew to 15 million tonnes averaging 117 g/t silver (Ag) for 55 million ounces Ag, or 179 g/t silver equivalent (Ag Eq) for 85 million ounces Ag Eq. The total Inferred resource grew to 9 million tonnes averaging 78 g/t Ag for 22 million ounces Ag, or 171 g/t Ag Eq for 49 million ounces Ag Eq. Relative to the previous resource estimates, Indicated Ag ounces grew 72% while Ag Eq ounces grew 83%. On an Inferred basis, Ag ounces grew 20% while Ag Eq ounces grew 48%. The Plomosas Project is distinct from many other projects in Mexico due to the existence of attractive mineralization at shallow depths with exceptional widths: true widths of the modelled domains average 20 metres at the Plomosas Mine Area and 22 metres at the San Marcial Area. In general, wide mineralized widths allied with shallow depth could indicate amenability to more mechanized mining methods and, consequently, potentially lower mining costs.

The district contains intermediate to low sulphidation epithermal silver and gold mineralization hosted in hydrothermal breccias and veins. The identification of high-grade precious metal bearing veins associated with younger, cross-cutting structures is an important evolution in the understanding of the controls on mineralization in the district. Recent success in exploration and drilling, with an associated increase in drill hit rate, has delineated wide, high-grade, shallow hydrothermal breccias in the San Marcial Area including the SE Area discovery. The Mineral Resource Estimate completed in the SE Area discovery zone covers only 300 m of a total 900 m known strike length (Figure 1), as defined by GR Silver Mining's 2022 exploratory program. There is surface evidence in the additional 600 m strike to the southeast, of potential silver mineralization at shallow depth hosted in wide hydrothermal breccias like those encountered in the SE Area discovery. The Company is also completing extensive detailed mapping and surface sampling in the vicinity of the SE Area discovery, including historical old workings, aiming to define new drilling targets (Figure 2).

The company currently owns 5 drill rigs, which can be cost-effectively deployed to continue drilling in the SE Area discovery and vicinity. The Company has already mobilized one drill rig to conduct initial step-out drilling on the prospective 600 m strike to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, based on attractive preliminary silver and base metal values from the 2023 surface exploration program in 2023 target area. Assays are pending from multiple holes.

In addition to the exploratory drilling along strike to the southeast of the SE Area discovery, the NI 43-101 recommends that GR Silver Mining continue to drill test the extensions of known mineralization at the San Marcial, Plomosas Mine, and San Juan-La Colorada areas, which remain open. A 12,500-metre program has been recommended pending board approval. It is primarily comprised of shallow drilling for resource expansion and exploration with key objectives as follows:

San Marcial Area, SE Extension

San Marcial Area, Resource Extension and Infill Drilling

Plomosas Mine Area, Incremental Infill Drilling

Early-Stage Exploration and Drill Target Generation

Over the next few months, it is management's goal to conduct several small, cost-effective technical studies to ascertain economic parameters in advance of a potential Preliminary Economic Assessment that may be initiated in the future. The Plomosas Project features several competitive advantages including road access, power direct to site, land ownership, 7.4 km of underground development in excellent condition, and existing mining permits and long-term ejido agreements. These features suggest the potential for lower costs, shorter timelines, and mitigated risks relative to comparable greenfields projects.

Figure 1: View southwest of the San Marcial Area showing the SE Area discovery, the target contact extending to the southeast, and the surface silver anomalies identified along the contact. (CNW Group/GR Silver Mining Ltd.)

Figure 2: Northward view of the Plomosas Project showing exploration targets in the San Marcial Area with the potential to add to SE Area discovery resources. (CNW Group/GR Silver Mining Ltd.)

Figure 3: Plomosas Project core concessions, as well as non-core concessions available for partnership or purchase (CNW Group/GR Silver Mining Ltd.)

Legislative Changes in Mexico

The Mexican Senate has approved modifications to its mining law, which will likely receive final approval from authorities in the near term. The mining reforms will then be enacted in new policies and regulations, the exact impacts of which are not clear at this time. GR Silver Mining remains in an attractive position under the modified legislation in that it wholly owns concessions in the Rosario Mining District for which titles and operating permits are held. GR Silver Mining, since its foundation, has nurtured excellent relationships with in-country stakeholders, enjoying recent success in the granting of permits from Mexican authorities and securing long term agreements with neighbouring ejidos. GR Silver Mining's track record of local employment and the achievement of high health, safety, and environmental standards has placed it as a respected and well-established company in Sinaloa, Mexico. The Plomosas Project is at an advanced stage with historical mine operations, including permits and infrastructure for potential development of a modern mining operation. Nonetheless, these modifications to mining legislation require attention and the Company will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Cash Management

Over the past year, GR Silver Mining committed to the delivery of a resource update for the Plomosas Project by the end of March. The Company successfully delivered the resource update (see New Release, dated March 20, 2023) on time and exceeding the expectations published by covering analysts. Further, the resource estimate increment was delivered efficiently and cost-effectively at an attractive exploration cost of US$0.23/oz Ag Eq. Despite difficult markets, GR Silver Mining's management adhered to its commitment to delivering an important resource estimate update on time, requiring significant funding and commensurate dilution.

Despite its commitment to deliver the resource update, GR Silver Mining's management also embarked on a cost reduction program last year. The staff head count in Mexico has been reduced by 38% since the beginning of last year. The number of vehicles used in support of field activities has been reduced by 50% over the same period. Head office and overhead costs are being reduced with executives taking reduced cash salaries and directors waiving cash fees. There is a growing commitment to address the burden of mining concession fee arears over the year ahead while maximizing exploration expenditures as outlined above. The Company's non-core concessions of over 300 km2 (Figure 2) remain available for partnership or outright purchase and outreach has been made to encourage potential monetization. The recent $3.03 million non-brokered private placement that closed February 16 (see News Release) bought the Company the ability to deliver the promised resource and provided some flexibility in timing for further financing to meet our objectives for the remainder of 2023.

The Company has had several inquiries from independent parties interested in facilitating small-scale mining at the former Plomosas Mine at no cost to the Company, with the processing of mined material at third-party mills in the region. Given the state of the capital markets at present, the Company's board of directors has instructed management to explore this option based on minimizing risk regarding financial, technical, environmental, health and safety exposure. There are no guarantees that discussions with these parties, subject to negotiating acceptable terms and conditions, as well as the entering into of definitive documentation, will come to fruition.

About the Plomosas Project

The Plomosas Project, including the recent high-grade silver SE Area discovery in the San Marcial Area, is an emerging high-grade silver district located in southern Sinaloa, Mexico. The 43,187 ha Plomosas Project includes past-producing historical mining sites benefiting from previous mine infrastructure, road access and existing permits. The district contains intermediate to low sulphidation epithermal silver and gold mineralization hosted in hydrothermal breccias and veins. Recent success in exploration and drilling has delineated wide, high-grade, shallow hydrothermal breccias in the San Marcial Area, including the SE Area discovery, where initial drilling incorporated in the updated resource estimation for the Plomosas Project unveils an exploration opportunity for continuous resource growth.

QA/QC Procedures

The Company has implemented QA/QC procedures which include insertion of blank, duplicate and standard samples in all sample lots sent to SGS de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. laboratory facilities in Durango, Mexico, for sample preparation and assaying. For every sample with results above Ag >100 ppm (over limits), these samples are submitted directly by SGS de Mexico to SGS Canada Inc. at Burnaby, BC. The analytical methods are four acid Digest and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry with Lead Fusion Fire Assay with gravimetric finish for silver above over limits. For gold assays the analytical methods are Lead Fusion and Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Lead Fusion Fire Assay and gravimetric finish for gold above over limits (>10 ppm).

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Marcio Fonseca, P. Geo., President & COO for GR Silver Mining, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

About GR Silver Mining Ltd.

GR Silver Mining is a Canadian-based, Mexico-focused junior mineral exploration company engaged in cost-effective silver-gold resource expansion on its 100%-owned assets, located on the eastern edge of the Rosario Mining District, in the southeast of Sinaloa State, Mexico. GR Silver Mining controls 100% of two past producer precious metal underground and open pit mines, within the expanded Plomosas Project, which includes the integrated San Marcial Area and La Trinidad acquisition. In conjunction with a portfolio of early to advanced stage exploration targets, the Company holds 734 km2 of concessions containing several structural corridors totaling over 75 km in strike length.

GR Silver Mining Ltd.

Eric Zaunscherb

Chair & CEO

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

GR Silver Mining Ltd. Logo (CNW Group/GR Silver Mining Ltd.)

SOURCE GR Silver Mining Ltd.

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The Dutch are developing, innovating and validating this green energy, which will be on full display at the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam, May 9-11, 2023

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ -- The Netherlands has strong ambitions to accelerate the energy transition and it is fast becoming the cleantech hub for renewable energy in Europe. Hydrogen is one field in which the country is moving fast to develop new, sustainable energy solutions. Across the Netherlands, specialized industry clusters are innovating in the potential of hydrogen, including the Port of Rotterdam. This dynamic Dutch ecosystem will be on full display during the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, on May 9-11, 2023.

Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency

An international event, the World Hydrogen Summit will bring together government officials, industry leaders and experts from around the world to discuss the latest developments and future opportunities in the hydrogen industry. The summit will provide a platform for the Netherlands to showcase its leadership in the field, and to learn from other countries about their experiences and best practices in the rapidly evolving world of green hydrogen.

"The Netherlands offers an open innovation environment, in which institutions, companies and government work together to develop, pilot and implement new technologies in hydrogen," explains Jaap Slothouwer, NFIA's Executive Director, Americas. Companies can bring to the Netherlands their expertise to improve the efficiency of producing, storing and transporting hydrogen, and to widen their use in industry. The potential in the Netherlands is still huge, as we need to replace the 80% that oil and gas still make up of our energy use."

The Netherlands is already home to several large-scale green hydrogen projects, as well as specialized industry clusters for international collaboration to research, develop, pilot and implement new technologies. Faraday open innovation laboratory in Petten  part of the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO)  is one of Europe's largest hydrogen research facilities aiming to optimize and scale-up existing electrolysis technologies.

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Furthermore, the Dutch government has set ambitious plans to kickstart the large-scale production and widespread use of green hydrogen. The National Hydrogen Program supports applications of hydrogen in various sectors. The government also invests to develop a 'National Hydrogen Network' which will be ready by 2031.

The Dutch hydrogen ecosystem is attracting a growing number of companies looking to invest in the country's green hydrogen sector. For example, a consortium of Shell, RWE, Groningen Seaports, Equinor & Gasunie called NortH2 is developing Europe's Largest Green Hydrogen Project combining all aspects of the supply chain to achieve large-scale supply of green hydrogen. Pennsylvania-based hydrogen company Air Products recently opened its new project delivery office for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) in The Hague, the Netherlands. In addition, world leader in offshore wind energy rsted has ambitions to develop the world's largest renewable hydrogen plant in the Netherlands with its 'SeaH2Land' project.

With its strong infrastructure, supportive government policies, and innovative companies, the Netherlands is well-positioned to make vital advances in hydrogen, helping to drive the transition to a more sustainable, carbon-neutral future.

Interested in connecting with NFIA before or during the World Hydrogen Summit? Meet with the Invest in Holland team  including OostNL, Innovation Quarter, The Hague Business Agency, NOM, Rotterdam Partners and Horizon  at Stand A13, next to the Netherlands Pavilion.

NFIA offers free, confidential assistance to companies looking to establish or expand operations in the Netherlands and has North American offices located in Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, San Francisco and Toronto. For more information, visit www.investinholland.com or contact Energy_nfia@rvo.nl.

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SOURCE Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency

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FY23 Revenue grows 23.7% backed by a superior EBITDA margin of 26.2%

FY24 revenue guidance growth at 25%

Proposes final dividend of  3.4 per share

BENGALURU, India, SAN JOSE, Calif. and LONDON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE:HAPPSTMNDS), a 'Born Digital. Born Agile', digital transformation and IT solutions company, today announced its consolidated results for the fourth quarter and year ended March 31, 2023 as approved by its Board of Directors.

Happiest Minds Technologies Press Conference at Bengaluru (PRNewsfoto/Happiest Minds Technologies Limited)

Ashok Soota, Executive Chairman, said, "I am pleased to announce that Happiest Minds has delivered outstanding results for FY23 with 23.7% revenue growth and 26.2% of EBITDA. We have missed our revenue growth target by 1.3% due to the right-shifting of some Q4 revenues. This has been more than compensated by delivering an EBITDA which exceeded the upper band of our guidance of 22 to 24%. In view of our strong business pipeline, we are planning a record people addition of 1,300. Accordingly, we are retaining our FY24 revenue guidance growth at 25%."

Financial highlights

Quarter ended March 31, 2023:

Revenue in constant currency grew by 1.3% q-o-q and 17.6% y-o-y.

Operating Revenues in US$ stood at $46 million (growth of 1.4% q-o-q: 15.2% y-o-y)

Total Income of  38,643 lakhs (growth of 3.1% q-o-q; 24.5% y-o-y)

EBITDA of  10,062 lakhs, 26.0% of Total Income (growth of 3.5% q-o-q; 23.3% y-o-y)

PAT of  5,766 lakhs, 14.9% of Total Income (growth of 0.1% q-o-q; 10.7% y-o-y)

Free cash flows of  9,946 lakhs

EPS (diluted) for the quarter of  3.98.

Year ended March 31, 2023:

Revenue in constant currency grew by 23.7%

Operating Revenues in US$ stood at $178 million (growth of 21.2% y-o-y)

Total Income of  145,040 lakhs (growth of 28.3% y-o-y)

EBITDA of  37,997 lakhs, 26.2% of Total Income (growth of 28.9% y-o-y)

PAT of  23,099 lakhs, 15.9% of Total Income (growth of 27.5% y-o-y)

Free cash flows of  36,480 lakhs

EPS (diluted) for the full year of  16.01.

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Happiest Minds Technologies Ltd

All amounts in  Lakhs unless stated otherwise











































Particulars

Q4 FY 23 Q3 FY 23 QoQ Q4 FY 22 YoY

FY 23 FY 22 YoY





















Revenues

37,798 36,688 3.0 % 30,057 25.8 %

142,929 109,365 30.7 %





















Other Income

845 780 - 991 -

2,111 3,710 -





















Total Income

38,643 37,468 3.1 % 31,048 24.5 %

145,040 113,075 28.3 %





















EBITDA

10,062 9,726 3.5 % 8,158 23.3 %

37,997 29,477 28.9 % %

26.0 % 26.0 %

26.3 %



26.2 % 26.1 %

PBT

7,893 7,524 4.9 % 6,988 13.0 %

30,986 24,585 26.0 % %

20.4 % 20.1 %

22.5 %



21.4 % 21.7 %

Tax

2,127 1,766 - 1,777 -

7,887 6,465 - %

5.5 % 4.7 %

5.7 %



5.4 % 5.7 %

PAT

5,766 5,758 0.1 % 5,211 10.7 %

23,099 18,120 27.5 % %

14.9 % 15.4 %

16.8 %



15.9 % 16.0 %













































Revenues ($'000)

45,918 45,279 1.4 % 39,876 15.2 %

177,768 146,634 21.2 %





















Growth in Constant Currency

- - 1.3 % - 17.6 %

- - 23.7 %























Venkatraman N, MD & CFO, said, "Our excellent results both in terms of growth and profitability reflect our operating strengths. This is the 12th successive quarter where we have reported EBITDA of more than 25%. Based on our strong financial results, we are happy to recommend a final dividend of 3.4 per share."

Joseph Anantharaju, Executive Vice Chairman, said, "Our compelling value proposition and effective land and expand strategy has led to good performance on our customer metrics. The average revenue per customer and the number of billion-dollar corporations have shown consistent progression during the fiscal. We saw a marked improvement in pipeline and deal velocity in the second half of the quarter setting us up well for the first quarter and FY24."

Clients:

237 as of March 31, 2023

16 additions in the quarter

Our People - Happiest Minds:

4,917 as of March 31, 2023 (net addition for the quarter 306)

Trailing 12-month attrition of 19.8%

Utilization of 74.6%, from 80.1% in last quarter

Q4 FY23 Key Project Wins:

For a large EduTech company that enables learners and academic institutions to achieve their goals, Happiest Minds was chosen as their strategic partner to provide digital engineering and test automation services.

For a leading provider of hardware for the gaming industry, Happiest Minds was chosen to provide embedded and software development services.

For a world leader in the recreational travel and hospitality industry, this consulting-led engagement entails Happiest Minds to evaluate, recommend and advise for building their ESG Reporting Platform.

For a global industrial technology leader, Happiest Minds is providing application testing services.

For this existing client in the property and casualty insurance industry in North America, Happiest Minds has been chosen to provide security services.

For a large loyalty program provider in the ANZ region, Happiest Minds is chosen to provide consulting, support and implementation services to enhance security and privacy environments around data and cloud.

For this Australia-based existing client in the Quick Service Restaurant industry, Happiest Minds is a partner of choice in their digital transformational initiatives.

For a reputed Hi-Tech company providing digital transformational services in the middle east, Happiest Minds has been chosen to provide cloud migration services.

For an India-based international provider of quality B2B solutions in the higher education space, Happiest Minds is building their next-gen platform for test prep leveraging cloud.

For a reputed India-headquartered global automotive company, Happiest Minds has been chosen to provide engineering services leveraging 5G for their connected car program.

Recognitions:

Happiest Minds won the ICAI Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting 2021-22

Happiest Minds' MD & CFO, Mr. Venkatraman Narayanan recognized as a ' Leading CFO of the Year ' at the CII CFO Excellence Awards 2022.

Happiest Minds is among the Top 50 India's Best Workplaces for Building a Culture of Innovation 2023 .

Happiest Minds is among Top 10 India's Best Workplaces in Health & Wellness 2022

Priya Kanduri was awarded at 'Women In Tech Leadership Awards 2023' by AIM and the 'Women at Work Achiever of the Year 2023' by FKCCI

Analyst Mentions

Happiest Minds is selected as 'Standout Case Study' - ISG Digital Case Study Awards 2022.

Announcements

The Board of Directors of the Company at their meeting held on May 8, 2023, has recommended a final dividend of 3.4 per equity share of face value  2/- for the financial year 2022-23 subject to shareholder approval.

For further details please refer to the Investors presentation on the Company's website

About Happiest Minds Technologies:

Happiest Minds Technologies Limited (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS), a Mindful IT Company, enables digital transformation for enterprises and technology providers by delivering seamless customer experiences, business efficiency and actionable insights. We do this by leveraging a spectrum of disruptive technologies such as: artificial intelligence , blockchain , cloud , digital process automation , internet of things , robotics/drones, security , virtual/augmented reality , etc. Positioned as 'Born Digital . Born Agile', our capabilities span digital solutions, infrastructure, product engineering and security. We deliver these services across industry sectors such as automotive, BFSI, consumer packaged goods, e-commerce, EduTech, engineering R&D, healthcare, hi-tech, manufacturing, retail and travel/transportation/hospitality.

A Great Place to Work-Certified company, Happiest Minds is headquartered in Bangalore, India with operations in the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia and Middle East.

Safe harbor

This release may contain certain forward-looking statements, which involves risks and uncertainties that could cause our future results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The COVID-19 pandemic could decrease our customers' technology spend, delaying prospective customers' purchasing decisions, and impact our ability to provide services; all of which could adversely affect our future revenue, margin, and overall financial performance. Our operations could also be negatively impacted by a range of external factors not within our control including those due to the pandemic. We do not undertake to update any of our forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by us or on our behalf.

For more information, contact:

Media Contact: Kiran Veigas, media@happiestminds.com

Investors Relations: IR@happiestminds.com

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(PRNewsfoto/Happiest Minds Technologies Limited)

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SOURCE Happiest Minds Technologies Limited
merznatalia / Getty Images/iStockphoto

The high cost of healthcare can cause financial hardships for individuals and families in the U.S. According to Forbes Advisor, healthcare costs averaged $10,000 per person in 2020. Due to the expense, people make decisions like delaying medical care, forgoing prescriptions and opting out of medical procedures.

Read: 8 Best New Grocery Items at Dollar Tree To Help Combat Inflation

Learn: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

To find out which states are most and least expensive when it comes to medical care, GOBankingRates looked at healthcare cost data Forbes Advisor compiled across 11 key metrics using Kaiser Family Foundation data for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. States were assigned a score out of 100 (with 0 being the most affordable) and are ranked from least expensive to most expensive below. Heres how high medical bills are in every state.

51. Michigan

Total score out of 100: 0.0

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,524

Michigan is the cheapest state for healthcare due to several factors. For example, residents of the state who have employer-provided health insurance pay some of the lowest premiums and deductibles in America.

50. Washington

Total score out of 100: 1.93

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,939

Washington state residents also pay some of the lowest premiums in the nation for employer-provided health insurance.

49. Nevada

Total score out of 100: 18.21

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,118

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48. Hawaii

Total score out of 100: 21.19

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,593

Adults living in the Aloha State were the least likely in the U.S. to report delaying a doctors visit in the past 12 months due to cost (data was from 2020). Also, residents with employer-provided health insurance with single coverage pay the lowest average premiums in the country at only $846.67 per year.

47. New Mexico

Total score out of 100: 29.60

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,505

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46. District of Columbia

Total score out of 100: 31.17

Healthcare spending per capita: $13,934

45. Pennsylvania

Total score out of 100: 32.05

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,229

44. Massachusetts

Total score out of 100: 32.57

Healthcare spending per capita: $12,754

43. Oregon

Total score out of 100: 33.10

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,625

42. Wisconsin

Total score out of 100: 34.68

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,626

41. Ohio

Total score out of 100: 34.85

Healthcare spending per capita: $10,093

40. Idaho

Total score out of 100: 37.48

Healthcare spending per capita: $7,772

39. Maryland

Total score out of 100: 38.00

Healthcare spending per capita: $10,340

38. Minnesota

Total score out of 100: 38.00

Healthcare spending per capita: $10,510

37. Utah

Total score out of 100: 38.53

Healthcare spending per capita: $7,241

Out of all the states, Utah has the lowest healthcare spending per capita.

36. Iowa

Total score out of 100: 39.05

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,265

After Hawaii, Iowa residents were some of the least likely to delay a doctor visit due to cost, with only 7.63% of adults doing so.

Take a Look: Amazon Just Changed Its Return Policy  and Youll Be Charged Fees on Some Orders as a Result

35. Virginia

Total score out of 100: 39.40

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,815

34. Rhode Island

Total score out of 100: 39.93

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,049

33. Arkansas

Total score out of 100: 42.03

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,912

32. California

Total score out of 100: 43.26

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,665

31. Vermont

Total score out of 100: 43.78

Healthcare spending per capita: $12,237

30. Montana

Total score out of 100: 45.01

Healthcare spending per capita: $9.791

29. South Carolina

Total score out of 100: 47.99

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,362

28. Alabama

Total score out of 100: 49.21

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,788

27. Texas

Total score out of 100: 49.56

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,048

Even though Texas has one of the lower healthcare spending per capita across the nation, it has the highest percentage of adults 16.63%  who did not see a doctor due to cost in the last 12 months.

26. New Jersey

Total score out of 100: 51.49

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,266

25. Mississippi

Total score out of 100: 51.84

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,852

24. North Dakota

Total score out of 100: 52.19

Healthcare spending per capita: $10,741

23. North Carolina

Total score out of 100: 53.77

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,607

22. Kentucky

Total score out of 100: 53.94

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,778

21. Illinois

Total score out of 100: 53.94

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,601

20. Colorado

Total score out of 100: 53.34

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,289

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19. Georgia

Total score out of 100: 55.52

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,282

After Texas, Georgia has the second-highest percentage of adults  16.53%  who delayed seeing a doctor over the past 12 months due to the expense (Data was from 2020).

18. Indiana

Total score out of 100: 57.79

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,914

17. Kansas

Total score out of 100: 58.84

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,845

16. Tennessee

Total score out of 100: 59.19

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,909

15. Missouri

Total score out of 100: 60.25

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,461

14. Connecticut

Total score out of 100: 62.00

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,899

13. Arizona

Total score out of 100: 63.05

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,239

12. Alaska

Total score out of 100: 64.97

Healthcare spending per capita: $13,188

Alaska has the highest health care spending per capita across the nation.

11. New York

Total score out of 100: 67.25

Healthcare spending per capita: $13,012

10. Oklahoma

Total score out of 100: 69.35

Healthcare spending per capita: $8,997

9. New Hampshire

Total score out of 100: 69.53

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,359

8. Delaware

Total score out of 100: 73.91

Healthcare spending per capita: $12,294

7. Maine

Total score out of 100: 74.08

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,505

6. Nebraska

Total score out of 100: 75.13

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,974

5. Wyoming

Total score out of 100: 78.63

Healthcare spending per capita: $10,296

Residents of Wyoming with an individual health insurance plan from the Affordable Care Act marketplace paid the most expensive annual premium in the U.S. at $9,260. Additionally, the families of 16% of children in the state had trouble paying for their childrens medical expenses between 2019-2020  a metric that outranked every other U.S. state. Wyoming also had the highest percentage of adults  64.7%  who reported an unmet need for mental health treatment due to the expense.

4. Florida

Total score out of 100: 79.51

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,501

The cost of health insurance in the Sunshine State caused 14.87% of residents to delay seeing a doctor over the past 12 months (data was from 2020). Additionally, Florida residents with family health coverage from their employer pay the highest annual premium in the U.S. at $7,079.33.

3. West Virginia

Total score out of 100: 82.31

Healthcare spending per capita: $12,019

2. Louisiana

Total score out of 100: 86.69

Healthcare spending per capita: $9,796

Not only is Louisiana one of the top five states where healthcare is most expensive, residents with employer-provided health insurance pay some of the most expensive premiums in the U.S. at $6,999.67.

1. South Dakota

Total score out of 100: 100.00

Healthcare spending per capita: $11,736

Several factors are responsible for South Dakota being the state where healthcare is most expensive overall. For starters, families of 12% of children had difficulty paying for their childrens medical bills between 2019-2020. Also, the state had the third-highest increase in overall healthcare spending per person over a five-year period at 24.38%. South Dakota also had the sixth-highest annual health insurance premium for people with individual plans in the Affordable Care Act marketplace at $7,156.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How High Medical Bills Are in Every State
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Groups Annual Meetings will serve as a crucial platform for global leaders, policymakers, key stakeholders, and other influential figures to come together and discuss critical development issues.

The four-day event from May 10 will comprise high-level plenary sessions, interactive discussions, technical symposiums, and sideline events covering a wide range of topics such as poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, health, education, women and youth empowerment, food security, climate change, and innovation.

Member nations will have the opportunity to present their relevant development projects and initiatives to strengthen partnerships and create lasting valuable impacts.

Private Sector Forum

This year's meetings will include the Private Sector Forum hosted by institutions within the IsDB Group including the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), the International Islamic Corporation for Trade Financing (ITFC), and the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD). The Forum aims to strengthen trade relations and encourage investment and trade opportunities among member nations.

Set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the meetings are held under the patronage of The Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

The theme for this year's event is "Partnerships to Fend off Crises," emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges faced by the Bank's 57 member countries.

The Annual Meetings, which will see the participation of delegates from IsDB Groups 57 member countries.

Showcasing achivements

It will also give member countries an opportunity to showcase their achievements and success stories. High-profile participants, including Ministers from IsDB Group's 57 member countries, senior government officials, heads of international organisations, high-calibre representatives from the private sector, as well as members from the academia and media, will be attending.

By providing an environment conducive to dialogue and cooperation, the events seek to help identify workable solutions to major global issues and, thereby, promote comprehensive, sustainable development in IsDBs member countries.

The event encourages solid and lasting partnerships among member nations, driving positive change and facilitating economic and social progress.-- TradeArabia News Service
HII

U.S. Army Research Laboratory

HIIs Mission Technologies division was awarded a $94 million contract to provide experimentation, integration and transition program support for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory.

MCLEAN, Va., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HIIs (NYSE: HII) Mission Technologies division was awarded a $94 million contract to provide experimentation, integration and transition program support for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory. The contract was awarded under the Department of Defense Information Analysis Centers (DoD IAC) multiple-award contract (MAC) vehicle. DoD IAC MAC task orders are awarded by the U.S. Air Forces 774th Enterprise Sourcing Squadron to develop and create new knowledge for the enhancement of the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) repository and the Research and Development (R&D) and Science and Technology (S&T) community.



The contract has a five-year period of performance.

HII will provide research, development, test and evaluation to enhance weapon systems, combat systems and sensor capabilities for U.S. Army and Department of Defense mission partners.

We are honored to continue supporting the Armys mission, said Garry Schwartz, president of Mission Technologies C5ISR business group. Providing research, rapid prototyping and solutions development that address technology gaps is critical to enhancing mission capability and maintaining decisive advantage over adversaries.

ARL Graphic





A photo accompanying this release is available at: https://hii.com/news/hii-expands-advanced-research-and-development-support-for-the-army/.

Work will be performed at the U.S. Army Research Laboratory in Adelphi, Maryland, and at Mission Technologies growing operations center in Syracuse, New York.

HII was awarded the original contract on September 26, 2016.

About DoD IAC Program

The DoD IAC, sponsored by the Defense Technical Information Center, provides technical data management and research support for DOD and federal government users. Established in 1946, the IAC program serves the DOD S&T and acquisition communities to drive innovation and technological developments by enhancing collaboration through integrated scientific and technical information development and dissemination for the DOD and broader S&T community.

Story continues

About HII

HII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HIIs mission is to deliver the worlds most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.

As the nations largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HIIs workforce is 43,000 strong. For more information please visit:

HII on the web: https://www.hii.com/

HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHII

HII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/wearehii

HII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearehii

This material is based upon work supported by the DoD Information Analysis Center Program (DoD IAC), sponsored by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) under Contract No. FA807518D0002.



Approved for Public Release, Distribution Unlimited. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the DoD.

Contact:



Greg McCarthy

(202) 264-7126

gregory.J.mccarthy@hii-co.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/78c2dc7a-1666-4fbd-be60-698f6c04b0ac




VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Horizon Copper Corp. (TSXV: HCU) ("Horizon Copper", "Horizon", or the "Company") is pleased to provide updates related to its portfolio of assets including SSR Mining Inc.'s ("SSR Mining") proposed acquisition of an operating interest in the Hod Maden copper-gold project in Turkiye ("Hod Maden").

Horizon Copper Logo (CNW Group/Horizon Copper Corp.)

Horizon Welcomes SSR Mining as Operating Partner for Hod Maden

SSR Mining has reached an agreement with Lidya Madenchilik ("Lidya") whereby SSR Mining will acquire up to a 40% operating interest in Hod Maden and assume operational control of the project. SSR Mining will pay cash consideration of US$270 million (the "Transaction") as follows:

US$120 million in cash paid on closing for a 10% interest in Hod Maden;

US$150 million in earn-in structured cash milestone payments, linked to construction and commercial production milestones at Hod Maden, to acquire an additional 30% interest in the project.

In addition, SSR Mining will pay US$84 million to Lidya in the form of a contingent Mineral Reserve and Resource payment upon discovery of an additional 500,000 ounces of gold equivalent Reserves1 at Hod Maden beyond those currently identified as Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources. Assuming the terms of the earn-in milestone payments of the Transaction are fulfilled, SSR Mining will hold a 40% operating interest in Hod Maden, with the remaining passive ownership held by Lidya (30%) and Horizon Copper (30%).

Erfan Kazemi, Horizon's President & CEO, commented, "This is an important milestone and step forward in the development of the Hod Maden project. Over the last year, since Horizon's acquisition of a 30% interest in the project, Lidya, our Turkish partner and majority owner of the project, has been progressing various early works construction items at Hod Maden and working to secure project financing. SSR Mining will continue to advance the work that has been started while bringing a highly skilled project development team with extensive experience in developing gold mines in Turkiye. SSR Mining and Lidya have enjoyed a successful partnership at the Copler mine in Turkiye for over 15 years, where they continue to realize upside and value at this successful mine. We are very pleased to welcome SSR Mining to Hod Maden and we look forward to realizing the benefits of this proven partnership."

Story continues

For complete details regarding the Transaction, please see SSR Mining's press release dated May 8, 2023, at www.ssrmining.com.

About SSR Mining

SSR Mining is a leading diversified mining operator with producing assets in the USA, Turkiye, Canada, and Argentina. The company's portfolio has produced, on average, over 700,000 gold equivalent ounces annually over the last three years. With expertise across various mining and processing skillsets, including open pit and underground operations, SSR Mining has a track record of creating value through discovery, project development, and operations. The company is free cash flow-focused and, as at March 31, 2023, has a robust balance sheet with a cash and cash equivalent balance of US$561.8 million.

Development Timeline

Upon the closing of the Transaction, SSR Mining will continue early-works construction activities at Hod Maden with its development team mobilizing to site immediately. Early works activities for 2023 are to focus on site access and earthworks at an expected cost of approximately US$30 million (on a 100% basis). SSR Mining will assume the project finance process that is currently underway. SSR Mining expects to advance Hod Maden to a full construction decision in 2024 following a process to maximize project readiness and synergies. SSR Mining anticipates commercial production to commence in 2027.

Underground Production Commences at Oyu Tolgoi

Rio Tinto plc ("Rio Tinto") recently announced that underground production from Oyu Tolgoi Lift 1 Panel 0 began at the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia. Over thirty drawbells have been blasted since January 2022 and first sustainable production from the underground mine was achieved in the first quarter of 2023. Oyu Tolgoi is expected to become the fourth-largest copper mine in the world by 20302, operating in the first quartile of the copper equivalent cost curve.

Rio Tinto is managing the construction of Lift 1 of the Hugo North underground mine, including Hugo North Extension, on both the Oyu Tolgoi mining license and the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property. The Lift 1 mine plan incorporates the development of three panels, and in order to reach the full sustainable production rate of 95,000 tonnes per day from the underground operations all three panels need to be in production. The Hugo North Extension deposit on the Entree/Oyu Tolgoi joint venture property is located at the northern portion of Panel 1.

For more information, visit the Rio Tinto website at www.riotinto.com and see the press releases dated, March 13, 2023, and December 16, 2022, and the company's First Quarter Operation Review 2023.

Notes





1. Contingent payment relates to discovery of 500,000 gold equivalent ounces of new Resources at Hod Maden, which are subsequently upgraded to either Proven or Probable Reserves. Conversion of existing Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Resources as at the date of the Transaction does not count towards the 500,000 gold equivalent ounce milestone.



2. Source: Wood Mackenzie Dec 2022, based on production from committed projects



ABOUT HORIZON COPPER

Horizon Copper is a premier copper company holding unique non-operating interests in high-grade, low-cost copper assets. Upon completion of Part B of the Transaction described in the Company's Management Information Circular dated July 26, 2022, Horizon will hold a portfolio of unparalleled copper assets including a 30% interest in the copper-gold Hod Maden project, exposure to the Oyu Tolgoi copper mine through a 25% equity ownership in Entree Resources Ltd., and a 1.66% net profits interest on the Antamina copper mine. Horizon plans to actively grow its portfolio of assets with a focus on copper projects.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Although Horizon believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "postulate" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Horizon is not a guarantee of future results or performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the terms of the proposed Transaction between SSR Mining and Lidya including whether the Transaction will be completed as contemplated; expectations related to development timelines for Hod Maden including the timing of construction and commercial production; expected capital costs associated with Hod Maden; the benefits of the proposed Transaction and whether Hod Maden will benefit from the partnership between SSR Mining and Lidya; Horizon's ability to complete RTO Part B; delays involved in completing RTO Part B; Horizon's ability to receive TSX-V approval for the RTO Part B Financing; the state of the financial markets for Horizon's securities; the state of the natural resources sector in the event the RTO Part B is completed; Horizon's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that the Company is unaware of at this time. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Horizon disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. The securities referred to in this press release have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from the U.S. registration requirements.

SOURCE Horizon Copper Corp.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/08/c1954.html
57% indicate vaccine hesitancy increased for ALL vaccines during the pandemic primarily due to lack of trust, confusion and misinformation

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- To offer insight about employer health benefit concerns and plans once the COVID-19 national and public health emergency declarations end on May 11, the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions (National Alliance) conducted a survey of almost 30 employers representing approximately 1.5 million employees.

For over 30 years, the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions (National Alliance) has united business healthcare coalitions and their employer/purchaser members to achieve high-value care that improves patient experience, health equity, and outcomes. Its members represent private and public sector, nonprofit, and Taft-Hartley organizations that provide health benefits for more than 45 million Americans and spend over $400 billion on healthcare. (PRNewsfoto/National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions)

"The pandemic has reinforced the critical role of immunizations in workforce health strategy but it also raised newfound concerns, confusion and misinformation." said Michael Thompson, National Alliance president and CEO. "With the end of the public health emergency, employers expect to double down on education and employee engagement to encourage vaccinations across the board."

Additional findings include:

While 76% agreed that keeping up-to-date based on current COVID guidelines is core to their immunization strategies going forward, 81% agreed that the pandemic has increased the urgency of focusing on all vaccinations for employees and their families

96% of respondents agreed that employee engagement in primary care was a critical health strategy to improve immunization uptake

81% believe that employers are a trusted source for vaccine information compared to 62% for health plans

Most significant contributors impacting employees to not be fully vaccinated  lack of trust in vaccines (71% for COVID and 33% for other immunizations), confusion or misinformation (71% for COVID and 29% for other), and safety and efficacy concerns (57% for COVID and 24% for other)

With the end of the public health emergency, only 14% are planning to cover over-the-counter tests at 100% and 33% will not cover; going forward COVID treatment will be covered consistent with similar non-COVID services by 71% and another 24% envision covering at 100%

In tracking immunization rates, 79% of employers have vaccine information rates for their workforce on COVID, and 63% have information on influenza vaccinations

Given the recent ruling by a federal judge in Texas invalidating much of the Affordable Care Act's coverage of preventive care without cost sharing, 72% expect to continue providing coverage for all preventive services at 100%; 6% expect to be more selective; and 22% did not know how they would approach coverage for preventive care services

Story continues

The online poll of 29 employers that are members of coalitions affiliated with the National Alliance  Greater Philadelphia Business Coalition on Health, Midwest Business Group on Health, and Washington Health Alliance, was conducted from April-May 2023. Purchasers ranged in size from very large (33%, 10,000+), to large (21%, 1,000-9,999) to mid-size (17%, less than 1,000).

The full Immunization Prevention Survey results can be found here.

2023 Leadership Summits

This research will be among the topics of discussion at the National Alliance 2023 Leadership Summits, June 28-29 in Nashville, Tenn. The event brings together employers, coalitions and other healthcare thought leaders to share industry insights to tackle today's most pressing workplace opportunities and challenges. Learn more and register.

About National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions

The National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions (National Alliance) is the only nonprofit, purchaser-aligned organization with a national and regional structure dedicated to driving health and healthcare value across the country. Its members represent private and public sector, nonprofit, and Taft-Hartley organizations, and more than 45 million Americans, spending over $400 billion annually on healthcare. To learn more, visit nationalalliancehealth.org and connect on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/immunizations-remain-a-critical-part-of-workforce-health-strategy-post-covid-19-public-health-emergency-per-national-alliance-employer-survey-301817855.html

SOURCE National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions
FILE PHOTO: The logo of GoAir airline is pictured on an A320neo aircraft at the builder's headquarters of Airbus in Colomiers near Toulouse

By Arpan Chaturvedi and Aditi Shah

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Go Airlines on Monday called on India's company law tribunal to urgently grant its request for bankruptcy protection, as more lessors sought to repossess planes and the country's aviation regulator told the carrier to stop selling new tickets.

The airline, widely known as Go First, filed for bankruptcy protection last week, blaming "faulty" Pratt & Whitney engines for the grounding of about half its 54 Airbus A320neo. In all, it has 57 planes.

While the National Company Law Tribunal heard Go First's bankruptcy plea last week, it has yet to pass an order.

This has given lessors a window to try to secure their assets. On Monday, leasing companies Sky High XCV Leasing Company, ACG Aircraft Leasing, SFV Aircraft Holdings and some others submitted requests to India's aviation regulator to take back at least 13 planes, according to regulatory notices.

In all, a total of 33 requests have now been made by lessors including GY Aviation Lease and SMBC Aviation Capital.

Lawyers representing cash-strapped Go First said at Monday's court hearing the lessors' actions could further impair its operations.

Separately, the regulator ordered Go First to stop selling new tickets, a government source with direct knowledge of the matter said.

A spokesperson for the airline said it would respond to the regulator's order in due course.

Pratt & Whitney, part of Raytheon Technologies and the exclusive supplier of engines to Go First, has previously told an arbitrator that the airline's claim of defective engines causing its demise was "astounding" and without evidence.

Go First failed because of "its own poor management and events like COVID", Pratt said, according to legal documents.

The fall of Go First marks the first major airline collapse in India since Jet Airways filed for bankruptcy in 2019.

Go First's total debt to financial creditors was 65.21 billion rupees ($798 million) as of April 28, it had earlier said in a bankruptcy filing with the tribunal.

(Reporting by Arpan Chaturvedi and Tanvi Mehta in New Delhi; Writing by Rama Venkat and Dhanya Skariachan in Bengaluru; Editing by Alexander Smith, Sharon Singleton and Mark Potter)
Key Insights

Dufry's significant individual investors ownership suggests that the key decisions are influenced by shareholders from the larger public

53% of the business is held by the top 6 shareholders

18% of Dufry is held by Institutions

To get a sense of who is truly in control of Dufry AG (VTX:DUFN), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. With 32% stake, individual investors possess the maximum shares in the company. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

Meanwhile, private companies make up 28% of the companys shareholders.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Dufry, beginning with the chart below.

View our latest analysis for Dufry

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Dufry?

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.

Dufry already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. 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. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Dufry's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in Dufry. Edizione S.r.l. is currently the largest shareholder, with 28% of shares outstanding. Advent International Corporation is the second largest shareholder owning 8.8% of common stock, and Qatar Investment Authority holds about 5.2% of the company stock.

Story continues

We did some more digging and found that 6 of the top shareholders account for roughly 53% of the register, implying that along with larger shareholders, there are a few smaller shareholders, thereby balancing out each others interests somewhat.

While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

Insider Ownership Of Dufry

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our information suggests that Dufry AG insiders own under 1% of the company. However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. It is a pretty big company, so it would be possible for board members to own a meaningful interest in the company, without owning much of a proportional interest. In this case, they own around CHF31k worth of shares (at current prices). Arguably, recent buying and selling is just as important to consider. You can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 32% stake in Dufry. 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.

Private Equity Ownership

Private equity firms hold a 8.8% stake in Dufry. This suggests they can be influential in key policy decisions. Some might like this, because private equity are sometimes activists who hold management accountable. But other times, private equity is selling out, having taking the company public.

Private Company Ownership

We can see that Private Companies own 28%, of the shares on issue. It's hard to draw any conclusions from this fact alone, so its worth looking into who owns those private companies. Sometimes insiders or other related parties have an interest in shares in a public company through a separate private company.

Public Company Ownership

It appears to us that public companies own 7.8% of Dufry. 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:

While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Case in point: We've spotted 3 warning signs for Dufry you should be aware of, and 1 of them can't be ignored.

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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Key Insights

Institutions' substantial holdings in Santam implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price

Sanlam Investment Management (Pty) Ltd. owns 64% of the company

Ownership research, combined with past performance data can help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock

To get a sense of who is truly in control of Santam Ltd (JSE:SNT), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 73% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

Institutional investors was the group most impacted after the company's market cap fell to R31b last week. However, the 2.6% one-year return to shareholders might have softened the blow. But they would probably be wary of future losses.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Santam.

Check out our latest analysis for Santam

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Santam?

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.

As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Santam. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Santam's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Santam. Sanlam Investment Management (Pty) Ltd. is currently the company's largest shareholder with 64% of shares outstanding. With such a huge stake in the ownership, we infer that they have significant control of the future of the company. With 5.6% and 4.4% of the shares outstanding respectively, Public Investment Corporation Limited and Ninety One UK Limited are the second and third largest shareholders.

Story continues

Researching institutional ownership is a good way to gauge and filter a stock's expected performance. The same can be achieved by studying analyst sentiments. There is some analyst coverage of the stock, but it could still become more well known, with time.

Insider Ownership Of Santam

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. 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.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our data suggests that insiders own under 1% of Santam Ltd in their own names. It's a big company, so even a small proportional interest can create alignment between the board and shareholders. In this case insiders own R17m 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-- including retail investors -- own 21% 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 Santam better, we need to consider many other factors. For instance, we've identified 2 warning signs for Santam that you should be aware of.

But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Join A Paid User Research Session

Youll receive a US$30 Amazon Gift card for 1 hour of your time while helping us build better investing tools for the individual investors like yourself. Sign up here
EDMONTON, AB, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - With more than 100 active wildfires in Alberta, including a number that are currently listed as out of control, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has deployed its Virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (V-CAMP) to provide insurance information to affected residents.

Insurance Bureau of Canada Logo (CNW Group/Insurance Bureau of Canada)

IBC is in close contact with provincial government and emergency management officials, as well as with municipal officials in the affected communities. This situation is changing extremely rapidly. Click here for the latest updates from the Government of Alberta.

"Unfortunately, the wildfires across Alberta over the past week have resulted in the loss of multiple properties. Our hearts go out to the individuals and families whose lives have been disrupted and whose property has been damaged," said Rob de Pruis, National Director of Consumer and Industry Relations, IBC. "Special thanks to all the first responders who have been working so diligently to protect lives and property. While recovery efforts continue, rest assured that anyone whose property or vehicle was damaged can contact their insurance representative when they are ready to start the claims process. Those with general insurance questions are encouraged to contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC."

Insurers serve as "second responders" in the recovery period after catastrophe strikes. IBC's Virtual CAMP is staffed with trained insurance industry personnel who are on hand at IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) to help address consumers' general questions about their home, business or vehicle insurance policies. Albertans can also visit IBC's Wildfires webpage to learn more about their insurance coverage and the various stages of the claims process.

When the Smoke Clears . . . What's Covered?

Virtually every home insurance policy covers damage caused by fire, even if the fire began on a neighbouring property, as long as the fire was not started intentionally by the policy holder or a member of their household.

Damage to vehicles from fire is usually covered if comprehensive or all perils coverage car insurance was purchased. As this coverage is not mandatory, talk to your insurance representative to ensure that you have appropriate insurance coverage.

In certain circumstances, homeowners who are evacuated or unable to return home as a result of insurable damage are entitled to additional living expenses.

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Tips for Starting the Claims Process

Call your insurance representative. Most insurers have a 24-hour claims service. Be as detailed as possible when providing information.

List all damaged or destroyed items. If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Take photos of damage incurred and keep damaged items, unless they pose a health hazard.

Keep all receipts related to cleanup and living expenses if you've been displaced. Ask your insurance representative about what coverage for expenses you may be entitled to and for what period of time.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow us on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

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The main aim of stock picking is to find the market-beating stocks. But even the best stock picker will only win with some selections. So we wouldn't blame long term Paul Hartmann AG (FRA:PHH2) shareholders for doubting their decision to hold, with the stock down 41% over a half decade. And some of the more recent buyers are probably worried, too, with the stock falling 32% in the last year. The last week also saw the share price slip down another 6.6%.

Given the past week has been tough on shareholders, let's investigate the fundamentals and see what we can learn.

See our latest analysis for Paul Hartmann

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.

During the five years over which the share price declined, Paul Hartmann's earnings per share (EPS) dropped by 16% each year. This fall in the EPS is worse than the 10% compound annual share price fall. So investors might expect EPS to bounce back -- or they may have previously foreseen the EPS decline.

The image below shows how EPS has tracked over time (if you click on the image you can see greater detail).

This free interactive report on Paul Hartmann's earnings, revenue and cash flow is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further.

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. We note that for Paul Hartmann the TSR over the last 5 years was -33%, which is better than the share price return mentioned above. This is largely a result of its dividend payments!

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A Different Perspective

Investors in Paul Hartmann had a tough year, with a total loss of 30% (including dividends), against a market gain of about 3.5%. Even the share prices of good stocks drop sometimes, but we want to see improvements in the fundamental metrics of a business, before getting too interested. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 6% over the last half decade. Generally speaking long term share price weakness can be a bad sign, though contrarian investors might want to research the stock in hope of a turnaround. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Paul Hartmann better, we need to consider many other factors. Like risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for Paul Hartmann (of which 1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) you should know about.

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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JCHX Acquires 50% of Cordoba's Alacran Project for US$100 Million

Cordoba to Repay US$17.3 Million in Short-Term Loans to Ivanhoe Electric

PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Ivanhoe Electric (NYSE American:IE)(TSX:IE) Executive Chairman, Robert Friedland and President and Chief Executive Officer, Taylor Melvin are pleased to announce that Ivanhoe Electric's subsidiary, Cordoba Minerals Corp. (TSXV:CDB)(OTCQB:CDBMF) ("Cordoba") and JCHX Mining Management Co., Ltd. ("JCHX") have closed their strategic arrangement as previously described in Ivanhoe Electric's December 8, 2022 news release for the joint development of Cordoba's flagship Alacran Project in Colombia. Ivanhoe Electric currently owns 63.3% of Cordoba.

With a portion of the cash proceeds from the initial installment paid by JCHX, Cordoba will immediately repay all outstanding short-term loans previously provided by Ivanhoe Electric. The total repayment is approximately US$17.3 million including accrued interest. Ivanhoe Electric intends to use a portion of the loan repayment proceeds to fund the initial exploration drilling program at its Tintic Copper-Gold-Silver Project in Utah, which is expected to commence in May.

Cordoba plans to use the balance of cash proceeds from the JCHX acquisition to advance the technical work program associated with the Feasibility Study for the Alacran Copper Project. Additional details are provided in Cordoba's news release.

JCHX Payment Schedule

JCHX has acquired a 50% ownership in the Alacran Project for US$100 million payable in three installments. The initial cash installment of US$40 million has been paid by JCHX upon closing.

The second installment of US$40 million is payable in cash by JCHX at the earliest date upon completion of a Feasibility Study for the Alacran Project and the submission of the Environmental Impact Assessment ("EIA") or, at the latest, by the second anniversary of the closing of the transaction.

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The third and final installment of US$20 million is payable in cash by JCHX once the approval of the EIA is obtained, which must be within two years of the transaction's closing date. Should the EIA not be approved by the second anniversary of the closing date, JCHX will have the option to elect not to complete this third and final installment, which will result in JCHX being diluted to 40% and Cordoba increasing to a majority of 60% ownership of the Alacran Project.

About Ivanhoe Electric

Ivanhoe Electric is an American technology and mineral exploration company that is re-inventing mining for the electrification of everything by combining advanced mineral exploration technologies, renewable energy storage solutions and electric metals projects predominantly located in the United States. Ivanhoe Electric uses its Typhoon transmitter, an accurate and powerful geophysical survey system, together with advanced data analytics provided by its subsidiary, Computational Geosciences Inc., to accelerate and de-risk the mineral exploration process as well as to potentially discover deposits of critical metals that may otherwise be undetectable by traditional exploration technologies. Through its controlling interest in VRB Energy, Ivanhoe Electric also develops and manufactures advanced grid-scale vanadium redox battery storage systems. Finally, through advancing its portfolio of electric metals projects located primarily in the United States, headlined by the Santa Cruz Copper Project in Arizona and the Tintic Copper-Gold Project in Utah, as well as projects in Montana, Nevada, Oregon and North Carolina, Ivanhoe Electric is also well positioned to support American supply chain independence by delivering the critical metals necessary for electrification of the economy.

Contact Information

Investors: Valerie Kimball, Director, Investor Relations 720-933-1150

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable U.S. and Canadian securities laws. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the company's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Such statements include without limitation, statements with respect to the transactions with JCHX, the use of proceeds by Cordoba from the transactions, timing of repayment of the short term loans owing to Ivanhoe Electric, Ivanhoe Electric's use of the loan repayment from Cordoba, and the benefits of the transactions.

Forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management, including those provided to it by the management of Cordoba. Such statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to various factors, including changes in the prices of gold, copper or silver or other metals that Ivanhoe Electric or Cordoba is exploring for; assumptions with respect to the status of community relations and the security situation on site and in Colombia; general business and economic conditions; continuity of drilling programs; the supply and demand for, inventories of, and the level and volatility of the prices of metals; relationships with strategic partners and significant shareholders including JCHX; the timing and receipt of governmental permits and approvals; the timing and receipt of community and landowner approvals; changes in regulations; political factors; the accuracy of Ivanhoe Electric's interpretation of Cordoba's drill results; the geology, grade and continuity of Cordoba's mineral deposits; the availability of equipment, skilled labor and services needed for the exploration and development of mineral properties; currency fluctuations; and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economy. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements described in Ivanhoe Electric's registration statement on Form S-1, as amended, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and base PREP prospectus filed with Canadian securities commissions.

No assurance can be given that such future results will be achieved by Ivanhoe Electric or Cordoba. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Ivanhoe Electric cautions you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Subject to applicable securities laws, Ivanhoe Electric does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release, and Ivanhoe Electric expressly disclaims any requirement to do so.

SOURCE: Ivanhoe Electric Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/753561/Ivanhoe-Electric-Subsidiary-Cordoba-Minerals-Announces-Closing-of-Milestone-Agreement-with-JCHX-for-Joint-Development-of-the-Alacran-Copper-Project-in-Colombia




Former Obama Foundation senior director will lead JFF's fundraising strategy to accelerate the organization's mission to achieve equitable economic advancement for all

BOSTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that drives transformation in the U.S. education and workforce systems, today announced the appointment of Amy Seusing as its first Chief Development Officer. In this role, Seusing will lead JFF's strategy to diversify revenue through public sector grants and contracts, foundation and corporate partnerships, and individual giving, creating high-impact partnerships to support JFF's mission to promote equitable economic advancement for all.

"This is a powerful moment for JFF to build relationships with new mission-aligned funding sources that can help fuel our efforts to drive change in our education and workforce systems. The nation's learners and workers continue to face a multitude of inequities, yet there is a growing desire among employers, educators, and the public sector to generate new opportunities and challenge the status quo," said Maria Flynn, President and CEO of Jobs for the Future. "By partnering with individuals and funders who share our vision for transforming the U.S. education and workforce systems to help millions of people achieve their career and life goals, we believe Amy's expertise, relationships, and passion for these issues can help expand our impact and accelerate change."

Seusing will take over JFF's development efforts during a time of significant growth for the organization. JFF has doubled in size and budget over the past three years, enabling it to invest in new approaches to create opportunities for those facing barriers to quality jobs, particularly learners and workers who are people of color or women, people of all backgrounds without four-year degrees, and people with criminal records. Seusing's experience developing high-impact partnerships for social good will be critical to support JFF's commitment over the next 10 years to promote more worker-centered, living wage jobs for millions of people and to better prepare the nation's workers and learners to fill them.

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"I was drawn to Jobs for the Future because throughout my career I've had the honor of supporting initiatives that drive economic opportunity for individuals and communities facing systemic barriers, and I appreciate how critical this work is," said Seusing. "I'm thrilled to join an organization that believes in bold transformation and look forward to forging promising new partnerships and deepening existing ones."

Prior to joining JFF, Seusing served as Senior Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations at the Obama Foundation, the nonprofit focused on inspiring, empowering, and connecting young people to change their world, and building the future Obama Presidential Center. In that role, she created the corporate and foundation fundraising team, strategy, and structure to grow the foundation's corporate and foundation revenue to more than $150 million in three years. Before that, Seusing served as Vice President of Development at Rebuilding Together, a national housing and community development nonprofit.

Over the last year, JFF has launched two new centers -- the Center for Racial Economic Equity and the Center for Justice and Economic Advancement -- and a new Employer Mobilization practice to help employers support the economic mobility of their workers. Additionally, through JFFLabs, the organization has recently announced two new incubated lines of practice focused on Climate Innovation and Lifelong Learning, and the launch of JFF Ventures, an impact investment fund supporting innovative products and services supporting economic advancement for learners and workers.

In 2022, the organization acquired Dave's Killer Bread Foundation's second chance hiring program to help increase employment opportunities for the nearly 600,000 people released from prison each year. Also in 2022, JFFLabs acquired Educational Quality Outcomes Standards (EQOS) and recently received a major grant from GitLab Foundation to partner with the Burning Glass Institute to expand the EQOS framework, making it easier for job seekers and employers to assess the rapidly increasing number of education and training programs available today.

Entering its 40th year, JFF continues to work with public, private, and nonprofit sector changemakers to drive new ideas, promising innovations, and equitable ways to help millions more people advance. Select funders include The Walmart Foundation, The U.S. Department of Labor, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, American Student Assistance, and Ares Charitable Foundation, among other philanthropic foundations, government agencies, and corporations. For additional information, please visit: https://www.jff.org/about/donors/

About JFF: Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all. www.jff.org

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SOURCE JOBS FOR THE FUTURE INC
Abu Dhabis successful efforts to put small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) at the heart of new economic growth will be explored in a forthcoming report by the global research and advisory company Oxford Business Group (OBG).

The Report: Abu Dhabi 2023 will chart the emirates swift recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, which has been galvanised by reforms introduced to enhance the investment climate and facilitate processes for start-ups, especially smaller-sized businesses.

In its analysis, OBG will shine a spotlight on the initiatives rolled out during the health crisis aimed at supporting SMEs, which include the National SME Programme, Operation 300bn and the Khalifa Fund.

In-depth coverage

It will also track Abu Dhabis broader efforts to diversify the economy, in line with the emirates Economic Vision 2030 targets, providing in-depth coverage of the sectors identified as ripe for investment, which include manufacturing, tourism, logistics and agri-tech.

OBG will also consider the implications of the federal budget, providing details of Abu Dhabis public spending priorities for the next three years and the stimulus measures introduced to spur economic activity.

The longer-term investment opportunities that the UAEs Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative offers across the clean and renewable energy segments will be another focus.

To support its analysis, OBG has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Chamber. Under the agreement, the Chamber will contribute to The Report: Abu Dhabi 2023 and other content for the Groups suite of research tools.

The MoU was signed by Mohamed Helal Al Mheiri, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, and Gita Evele, OBGs Country Director in Abu Dhabi.

Investor interest

Commenting after the signing, Al Mheiri said he looked forward to collaborating with OBG on its 2023 report, adding that investor interest was rapidly gathering momentum across a diverse range of sectors, supported by private sector competitiveness.

Between 2021 and 2022, Abu Dhabis government simplified the processes for businesses looking to set up operations in the emirate, reducing the entry and set-up costs for startups by removing thousands of requirements. These steps are not only supporting companies in their market penetration efforts, but will also help them to mitigate future economic challenges,

He said: Oxford Business Group is known for its in-depth analysis of fast-growing markets and their investment opportunities. I welcome the opportunity to work with its analysts and explore how these and other wide-ranging initiatives are benefiting the private sector, especially smaller-sized enterprises.

Private sector

Evele said the Chambers input would undoubtedly strengthen OBGs coverage of Abu Dhabis expanding private sector and the role of SMEs, in particular, in bringing Abu Dhabis Economic Vision 2030 goals to fruition.

Smaller-sized businesses were instrumental in helping Abu Dhabi to achieve one of the strongest post-pandemic recoveries worldwide, in part due to prudent measures implemented during the health crisis, she said.

Abu Dhabi Chamber was a key player in these efforts, rolling out initiatives such as its long-term digital transformation strategy and training and advisory services that continue to help companies identify viable options for future growth, while strengthening the emirates overall business ecosystem and the capacity of members to operate effectively through challenging periods. Im delighted that our researchers and, ultimately, our subscribers, will benefit from the expertise and experience of its representatives as we prepare to document the latest developments in Abu Dhabis economic transformation.

Contributions

The Report: Abu Dhabi 2023 will be produced with the Abu Dhabi Chamber, the UAE Banks Federation and other partners. It will contain contributions from leading personalities in the public and private sectors, including: Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al Nahyan, UAE Vice-President and Minister of the Presidential Court; Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa, President and CEO for UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators; Awaidha Murshed Ali Al Marar, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy; and Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General, UAE Space Agency.

The Report: Abu Dhabi 2023 will mark the culmination of several months of field research by a team of analysts from Oxford Business Group. It will be a vital guide to the many facets of the emirate, including its macroeconomics, infrastructure, banking and other sectoral developments.

The report will be available online and in print. It will form part of a series of tailored studies that OBG is currently producing with its partners, alongside other highly relevant, go-to research tools, including ESG and Future Readiness reports, country-specific Growth and Recovery Outlook articles and interviews.-- TradeArabia News Service
(Bloomberg) -- JPMorgan Chase & Co. must pay Frank founder Charlie Javices defense costs in its suit accusing her of defrauding the bank in its $175 million acquisition of her college-loan-planning site.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Delaware Chancery Court Judge Kathaleen St. J. McCormick concluded Monday JPMorgan was legally obligated to cover Javices legal bills, rejecting the banks argument that her alleged fraud fell outside the scope of the 2021 merger agreement. The ruling likely also covers Javices defense to criminal fraud charges brought by federal prosecutors over the disputed deal.

JPMorgan sued Javice and Olivier Amar, another Frank executive, for fraud in Delaware federal court in December, claiming they falsified records to show the site had more than four million customers when it actually had less than a tenth that number. JPMorgan has since shut down the Frank site.

Javice and Amar both turned around and sued JPMorgan for legal fees in Delaware Chancery Court, saying they deserved coverage under the banks policies since they became JPMorgan employees after the buyout. The banks attorneys countered that the fraud allegations negated its obligations.

While the merger agreement contained language addressing fraud, the contract language doesnt create a carve out to deny Javice and Amar advancement of legal fees, the judge concluded.

We continue to focus on the main issue of addressing our fraud claims against Ms. Javice and Mr. Amar through the legal process, Pablo Rodriguez, a bank spokesman, said in an emailed statement.

Javice was charged with fraud by Manhattan federal prosecutors last month. She was also sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission. She has yet to enter a plea in the criminal case, and her lawyers and prosecutors last week asked for the case to be delayed for talks between the two sides.

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McCormick also ordered JPMorgan to cover Amars legal fees for the same reasons the bank is on the hook for Javices bills. Amar, Franks growth and acquisition head, wasnt named in either the criminal or SEC case.

The bank urged McCormick to deny Javice and Amars legal fee requests, noting theyd reaped millions of dollars from the Frank sale that they could use to cover their own defense costs.

McCormicks ruling likely comes as a relief to Javice, who has run into money problems as she deals with JPMorgans fraud allegations.

The entrepreneur moved millions of dollars out of JPMorgan after the bank fired her and accused her of fraud, but then wound up getting caught up in the collapse of Signature Bank. That institution was seized by state regulators in March after a run on the bank threatened its future. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. stepped in to insure Signature deposits.

Seized Accounts

Although she was able to move her money before regulators put Signature into receivership, her accounts later were seized by federal prosecutors who charged her with defrauding JPMorgan.

JPMorgan suggested in Delaware court filings in Javice was trying to hide assets in Nevada shell companies she set up. But she countered the governments seizure of her funds vitiated any such concern.

If Javice is convicted of the fraud charges or she is found liable in JPMorgans lawsuit, the bank could seek to recoup any legal fees it advanced to her, said Larry Hamermesh, a retired University of Pennsylvania professor who taught about Delaware corporate law. Those outcomes could mean she no longer meant the standard to be indemnified by her former employer.

Shell have to fork over the fees in that event, Hamermesh said, if she has the money, that is.

The case is Javice v. JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, 2022-1179, Delaware Chancery Court (Wilmington).

(Updates with company comment in fifth paragraph, outside comment)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Take a look at whats on offer online this week

SYDNEY, May 08, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Its tournament time at Juicy Stakes Casino, where a $3000 Ancient Egyptian adventure is on the go. Theres a load of free stuff too read on to find out all about it!

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To scoop 60 Free Spins for Gold Dragon Inferno, deposit $25 with Bitcoin and enter the bonus code DRAGONCOIN. For another 90, deposit $50 using code PHOENIXBIT and take the red-hot Dragon and Phoenix pokie for a spin.

If you dont use Bitcoin, youll miss out on 60 Free Spins  earning 30 and 60 for those respective offers instead. But hey, thats still pretty good! This spin special will be available until 15th May.

John Murphy, manager of Juicy Stakes Casino, said: "Ancient Egypt is the inspiration for the Grand Tour of Egypt Tournament, and we hope the 3000 prize pool inspires Juicy Stakes players. A bunch of top pokies and a heap of cash to play for!

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"On top of that, Free Bets and Free Spins. All week long. Its what we do, so come along, get stuck in and take advantage of all these awesome offers."

ENDS

Editors notes:

About Juicy Stakes:

Juicy Stakes offers online poker and online casino games to players all over the world. Known for its generous player rewards program, the online poker room is one of the most popular sites on the Horizon Poker Network and the online casino features games from WorldMatch, Betsoft and Lucktap.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230508005404/en/

Contacts

Media Enquiries

Alex Spencer

Juicy Stakes

T: +1 877 833 1271
Juno Beach Centre Association

Faces of Canada Today explores the resilience, transformation, and diversity of the country our Veterans helped build

BURLINGTON, Ontario, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Juno Beach Centre (JBC), Canadas Second World War museum and memorial in Normandy, France today announced that its Faces of Canada Today permanent exhibition will be entirely renewed and renovated for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in June 2024.



Since the JBC opened to the public in 2003, Faces of Canada Today has showcased Canadas evolution since the war, and has helped visitors understand the country that over 1 million Canadian Veterans (in a country of 11 million in 1945) helped to build. However, the contents of the exhibition were created in the late 1990s and are now outdated and missing many significant events in Canadian history over the past 20 years.

Faces of Canada Today will explore how the resilience of Canadian service personnel during and after the Second World War helped transform Canadian society, explains Marie Eve Vaillancourt, Director of Exhibitions at the Juno Beach Centre Association. This legacy guides us today as we strive to create a more just and tolerant society, able to overcome obstacles and serve others.

These themes will be illustrated through several broader sections, the first of which explores post-war immigration, beginning with the return of Canadian Veterans and their European war brides and their great contributions to post-war Canadian society.

The diversification of Canadian society and its growing multiculturalism will be explored, as well as the difficulties faced by minorities. The notions of tolerance and inclusion will help underpin how Canada is a country that strives to live in peace with itself and with others, adds Vaillancourt.

One section of the exhibition will be dedicated to the volunteerism, activism, and environmentalism that drive Canadian society, while another will unpack the struggles of its colonial history with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The Juno Beach Centre appreciates the timely support of Veterans Affairs Canada, which provided a $25,000 grant through the Commemorative Partnership Program. This grant covered the costs to bring First Peoples Group into the project as an Indigenous advisory partner.

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In addition, the exhibition will demonstrate that the service of modern Veterans  those thousands of Canadians who have worn the uniform since 1945  continues to inform Canadian identity. Whether during the Cold War, through the United Nations and NATO missions, or during the war in Afghanistan, Canadians have continued to serve.

This renewal project will reflect the culture of remembrance and the history of the poppy symbol in Canada from the First World War to the present day.

Standing on Juno Beach today means reflecting on how a place of war has healed into a place of peace, says Vaillancourt. As we live in an increasingly troubled world, taking the time to reflect on peace is an act of engaged remembrance and citizenship. This new permanent exhibition will immerse visitors in an emotional contemplation of Canadas growth and recovery since the end of the Second World War.

With the approaching 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 6, 2024, this project comes at an opportune time.

Featuring stories from across Canadas diverse population, Faces of Canada Today aims to be reflective, nuanced, and honest in its portrayal of courage, resilience, and sacrifice.

The Juno Beach Centre also wants to thank Region Normandie and REACT EU (250,000 ), and Direction de la memoire, de la culture et des archives (DMCA) (200,000 ) for their support. Faces of Canada Today is a $1.25 million project and, thanks to our current funding partners, the JBC has raised nearly two-thirds of its goal.

Support for this project is the single most important investment donors can make as we stand on the cusp of the 80th anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy in 2024. More information on the Faces of Canada Today exhibition and opportunities to support can be found here: https://www.junobeach.org/upcoming-exhibitions/ . If you would like to discuss sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to us at sponsorship@junobeach.org.



The sacrifices made by our generation benefit this generation.  Jim Parks, Canadian D-Day Veteran

ABOUT THE JUNO BEACH CENTRE

The Juno Beach Centre was established in 2003 as a permanent memorial to all Canadians who were part of the Allied victory in the Second World War, and to preserve this legacy for future generations through education. The Centre in Normandy, France, pays homage to the nearly 45,000 Canadians who died during the War, including 5,500 during the Battle of Normandy and 381 on D-Day. Almost 20 years and more than 1 million visitors later, the Centre has been designated a site of national historic significance to Canada. It is owned and operated by the Juno Beach Centre Association, a registered charitable organization based in Burlington, ON, Canada. To learn more, please visit www.junobeach.org .

CONTACT: Media Contact: Louisa Simmons, Programs and Outreach Coordinator Juno Beach Centre Association louisasimmons@junobeach.org




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Dublin, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Kuwait Facility Management Market By Service (Property, Cleaning, Security, Support, Catering & Others), By Type (Hard Services and Soft Services), By Industry (Organized and Unorganized), By End User, By Sectors, By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2018-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Kuwait Facility Management market is anticipated to grow at a robust CAGR to 2028



Kuwait is a wealthy oil-based economy that, like its neighbors, is trying to diversify, giving rise to its Vision 2035. Just like other countries, Kuwait has multiple projects in several sectors but not limited to residential and commercial, including either construction of new facilities or the expansion of existing ones.

Facility Management has many services that an individual/ group can use in daily life but is not limited to fire safety; cleaning; maintenance; security; logistics; environment; Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) services. FM services are used in several sectors, such as residential, commercial, and industrial. FM services are also used in the private or public sector as they are also good for the lifetime value of the facility.



Kuwait Vison 2035 Propelling the Growth



Kuwait aims to be an international hub for finances and trade. The private sector shall have a major role in its transformation and efficiency. To maintain the beauty and growth of Kuwait, facility management shall have a major role in Kuwait's growth.



Kuwait is looking to spend more than USD10 billion for the construction of the residential sector along with the construction of Silk City worth more than USD80 billion. With an increase in urbanization, the facility management market shall reach new heights.



Kuwait Vision 2035 is focused on the overall development of the country, helping the country, which in turn gives the related markets such as real estate, facility management, and automobiles an edge to grow in the country.



Latest Trends in Kuwait Facility Management Market



Most construction projects in Kuwait are driven by public spending. In 2019, Kuwait Integrated Petroleum Industries Company (KIPIC) awarded Veolia's Middle East subsidiary a contract to operate and maintain a refinery wastewater treatment plant in Al Zour, southern Kuwait. The contract also resulted in seven years of maintenance for Veolia, which is worth USD63 million, expecting the Facility Management market to grow.



Lack of Maintenance



Maintenance of equipment and facilities is a challenge the owner and company employees are not keen on. Using malfunctioned or outdated equipment hampers the facility, also resulting in the reduction of the lifespan of both the facility and equipment. Replacing and maintaining the equipment before any wear and tear are as important as keeping the facility.

Story continues

Competitive Landscape



Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Kuwait Facility Management market.

PIMCO Kuwait

Kharafi national FM

EcovertFM Kuwait

Al Mazaya Holding Company KSCP

ENGIE Services General Contracting for Buildings Company WLL

United Facilities Management Company K.S.C.C

Alghanim International General Trading & Contracting Co. W.L.L. (Falghanim)

Al Mulla Group

Tanzifco Company W.L.L

O&G Engineering W.L.L

Report Scope:



Kuwait Facility Management Market, By Service:

Property

Cleaning

Security

Support

Catering

Others

Kuwait Facility Management Market, By Type:

Hard Services

Soft Services

Kuwait Facility Management Market, By Industry:

Organized

Unorganized

Kuwait Facility Management Market, By End User:

Commercial

Residential

Industrial

Public Sector

Kuwait Facility Management Market, By Sectors:

Education

Healthcare

Real Estate

Banking

Hospitality

Housing

Others

Kuwait Facility Management Market, By Region:

Kuwait City

Al Jahra

Al-Ahmadi

Hawalli

Others

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/97lud6

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-- Thermal Spray Solutions Adds Strategic Defense Focused Capabilities to Kymera's Surface Technologies Product Range --

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Kymera International ("Kymera"), a global leading specialty materials company, announced today that it has closed its transaction with Thermal Spray Solutions, Inc. ("TSS"), acquiring substantially all their assets. Headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, TSS is a leading provider of high-performance thermal spray coatings for corrosion and wear resistance to the U.S. Navy, the shipbuilding sector, and key industrial customers throughout the United States.

Kymera International acquires Thermal Spray Solutions Inc., expanding on thermal spray, coatings, and surface technology solutions.

"The sale of TSS to Kymera aligns with our strategic goal of growing our specialty coatings business segment. The team at TSS has developed unique material and process solutions that extend the life of metal substrates and provides non-slip surfaces to areas such as naval aircraft carrier decks. These technologies, along with Kymera's in-house developed materials, will allow us to expand our product offerings in the U.S. and use Kymera's footprint to drive growth globally," commented Barton White, Kymera CEO. "Notably, we are particularly excited how this investment will augment our growing offerings to support the U.S. Navy."

"Kymera continues to execute on its M&A playbook, now closing its seventh acquisition under Palladium's ownership," said Adam Shebitz, a Partner at Palladium. "The addition of TSS is right on strategy as it accelerates Kymera's expansion into high-growth surface technologies and value-added specialty materials."

"Thermal Spray Solutions is excited to become a part of Kymera's Surface Technologies Group. Kymera's focus on coatings applications and new product development will put TSS in a significantly stronger position to support the rapidly growing opportunities within our existing DoD and commercial customer base," said Chris Nichols, VP Sales & Marketing and Co-founder of TSS.

Story continues

The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Kymera International

Kymera International, through acquisitions, can trace its roots back to the 1800's. Today, Kymera International is a U.S. owned leading, global developer and manufacturer of advanced specialty materials and high-performance surface coatings. Kymera sells its technically developed products into a wide variety of end markets, including aerospace, defense, medical, electronics, chemical, specialty auto, additive manufacturing, and numerous industrial applications. Kymera International has manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Australia, Europe, and Asia. www.kymerainternational.com

About Thermal Spray Solutions

Thermal Spray Solutions is a full-service thermal spray facility specialized in rotating equipment solutions and on-site metal coating application. The facility, headquartered in Chesapeake, VA, boasts one of the largest thermal spray booths in the Eastern USA and is the leading supplier of Thermal Spray Nonskid coatings for US Navy flight decks.

About Palladium Equity Partners, LLC

Since its founding in 1997, Palladium has invested in more than 200 companies (38 platforms and more than 165 add-ons). With over $3 billion in AUM, the firm focuses primarily on buyout equity investments in the range of $50 million to $150 million. Palladium seeks to acquire and grow companies in partnership with founders and experienced management teams by providing capital and strategic guidance. The partners of the firm have meaningful experience in consumer, services, industrials, and healthcare businesses, with a special focus on companies they believe will benefit from the growth in the U.S. Hispanic population. For more information, visit www.palladiumequity.com.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kymera-international-acquires-thermal-spray-solutions-inc-301818553.html

SOURCE Kymera International
Custom Market Insights

[220+ Pages Latest Report] According to a market research study published by Custom Market Insights, the demand analysis of the Global Military Training Aircraft Market size & share revenue was valued at approximately USD 5.74 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 5.95 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 7.4 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 3.28% between 2022 and 2030. The key market players listed in the report with their sales, revenues and strategies are Rostec, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, Diamond Aircraft Industries, Embraer SA, Northrop Grumman Corporation, The Boeing Company, BAE Systems PLC, Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, Textron Inc., Leonardo SpA, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Calidus LLC, and others.

Austin,TX, USA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Custom Market Insights has published a new research report titled Military Training Aircraft Market Size, Trends and Insights By Aircraft Type (Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Basic Jet Trainers, Intermediate Jet Trainers, Advanced jet Trainers, Helicopter), By Seat Type (Single, Twin), By Application (Armed, Unarmed), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand for global military training aircraft market size & share was valued at approximately USD 5.74 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 5.95 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach a value of around USD 7.4 Billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 3.28% during the forecast period 2023 to 2030.

The military training aircraft market is expected to witness growth during the forecast period due to the increasing focus on advanced training of fighter pilots using training aircraft. Explore more growth trends with CMI!

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-free-sample/?reportid=23326

Military Training Aircraft Market: Dynamics and Growth Drivers

The global military training aircraft market is influenced by various dynamics, including drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges.

Story continues

One of the primary drivers of the market is the growing demand for military training aircraft to replace aging fleets with modern and advanced aircraft. The need to improve the efficiency of pilot training programs and prepare pilots for the latest operational requirements is also driving market growth. The market is also expected to benefit from the increasing emphasis on the use of simulation-based training and the integration of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies into training programs.

Click Here to Get a Free Sample Report of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

However, the market growth may be hindered by factors such as budget constraints and the high cost of military training aircraft. Additionally, the market is highly regulated, which may create barriers to entry for new players. On the other hand, the rising number of conflicts and geopolitical tensions worldwide is expected to create opportunities for market growth.

(A free sample of the Military Trainer Aircraft report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)



Our Free Sample Report Consists of the following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2023 updated report.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package.

About 220+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on the Request.

Updated Regional Analysis with a Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2023

Includes Tables and figures have been updated.

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Custom Market Insights (CMI) research methodology

(Please note that the Military Trainer Aircraft report sample has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

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Countries are investing in modernizing their military capabilities, including pilot training programs, which are expected to drive the demand for military training aircraft. Overall, the military training aircraft market is expected to witness steady growth over the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for advanced training capabilities to prepare pilots for modern combat scenarios.

Report Scope

Feature of the Report Details Market Size in 2023 USD 5.95 Billion Projected Market Size in 2030 USD 7.4 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 5.74 Billion CAGR Growth Rate 3.28% CAGR (2022-2030) Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2032 Key Segment By Aircraft Type, Seat Type, Application, and Region Report Coverage Revenue Estimation and Forecast, Company Profile, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Recent Trends Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America Buying Options Request tailored purchasing options to fulfil your requirements for research.

Directly Purchase a copy of the report [220+ Pages] @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

COVID-19 Analysis: Military Training Aircraft Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on the global military training aircraft market. On the one hand, the pandemic has disrupted supply chains, delayed aircraft deliveries, and caused budget cuts in defense spending, leading to a slowdown in market growth.

Many countries have diverted their resources towards the healthcare sector, leading to a decrease in defense spending. On the other hand, the pandemic has also created opportunities for market growth. With the travel restrictions and social distancing measures in place, the demand for simulation-based training and virtual reality-based training has increased. These technologies have allowed training programs to continue despite the pandemic-induced restrictions.

Moreover, the pandemic has led to an increase in geopolitical tensions worldwide, which has resulted in countries increasing their military capabilities, including pilot training programs. This trend is expected to drive the demand for military training aircraft in the coming years. Overall, while the COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for the military training aircraft market , it has also created opportunities for growth. The long-term impact of the pandemic on the market remains to be seen and will depend on the pace of economic recovery, defense spending, and the adoption of new technologies in training programs.

Key questions answered in this report:

What is the size of the Military Trainer Aircraft market and what is its expected growth rate?

What are the primary driving factors that push the Military Trainer Aircraft market forward?

What are the Military Trainer Aircraft Industry's top companies?

What are the different categories that the Military Trainer Aircraft Market caters to?

What will be the fastest-growing segment or region?

In the value chain, what role do essential players play?

What is the procedure for getting a free copy of the Military Trainer Aircraft market sample report and company profiles?

Request a Customized Copy of the Military Trainer Aircraft Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

Key Offerings:

Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20232030

Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Leading Trends

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Types of Services, by End-User Services, and by regions

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

Military Training Aircraft Market  Significant Threats

The military training aircraft market is not without its share of significant threats. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Budget constraints: One of the most significant threats to the military training aircraft market is the budget constraints faced by many countries. As defense budgets come under pressure, there is a risk that investment in military training programs and the procurement of new training aircraft may be cut back.

Competition from simulators: While simulators are not a direct substitute for military training aircraft, they are increasingly sophisticated and realistic. As a result, there is a risk that simulators may be seen as a more cost-effective alternative to live training exercises, which could reduce demand for military training aircraft.

Technological advancements: While technological advancements are also a driver of growth in the military training aircraft market, they can also be a threat. As new technologies emerge, there is a risk that older training aircraft may become obsolete, which could reduce demand for these aircraft.

Geopolitical instability: Geopolitical instability, including conflicts and tensions between countries, can also have a negative impact on the military training aircraft market. When countries are engaged in conflicts, they may prioritize investment in combat aircraft rather than training aircraft.

Environmental concerns: Finally, environmental concerns, including the impact of aviation on climate change, could also be a threat to the military training aircraft market. As pressure mounts to reduce carbon emissions, there may be increased scrutiny on the environmental impact of military training exercises, which could lead to a shift away from live training exercises and towards simulators.

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Recent Developments

December 2021: Turkish Aerospace and the Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (UniKL MIAT) have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to make it easier for Malaysia to get aerospace education, technical training, and study programmes.

July 2021: In 2021, nine more PC-21s were bought by the French Air Force.

September 2020: Textron Aviation Defence LLC said in September 2020 that the Royal Thai Air Force had given it a USD 162 million deal for military training planes. The deal includes 12 Beechcraft T-6C Texan II planes made in Wichita, as well as training tools, spare parts, and equipment for use on the ground.

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Browse the full Military Training Aircraft Market Size, Trends and Insights By Aircraft Type (Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Basic Jet Trainers, Intermediate Jet Trainers, Advanced jet Trainers, Helicopter), By Seat Type (Single, Twin), By Application (Armed, Unarmed), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032 Report at https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

List of the prominent players in the Military Training Aircraft Market:

Rostec

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd

Diamond Aircraft Industries

Embraer SA

Northrop Grumman Corporation

The Boeing Company

BAE Systems PLC

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd

Textron Inc.

Leonardo SpA

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Calidus LLC

Others

Click Here to Get a Free Sample Report of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

The Military Training Aircraft Market is segmented as follows:

By Aircraft Type

Fixed-Wing Aircraft Basic Jet Trainer Intermediate Jet Trainer Advanced jet Trainer

Helicopter

By Seat Type

Single

Twin

By Application

Armed

Unarmed

Request a Customized Copy of the Military Trainer Aircraft Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

By Region

North America

The U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

France

The UK

Spain

Germany

Italy

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia

South Korea

Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Egypt

Kuwait

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

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Comprehensive coverage

Maximum number of market tables and figures

The subscription-based option is offered.

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Free 35% or 60 hours of customization.

Free post-sale service assistance.

25% discount on your next purchase.

Service guarantees are available.

Personalized market brief by author.

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This Military Trainer Aircraft Market Research/Analysis Report Contains Answers to the following Questions.

What Developments Are Going On in That Technology? Which Trends Are Causing These Developments?

Who Are the Global Key Players in This Military Trainer Aircraft Market? What are Their Company Profile, Product Information, and Contact Information?

What Was the Global Market Status of the Military Trainer Aircraft Market? What Was the Capacity, Production Value, Cost and PROFIT of the Military Trainer Aircraft Market?

What Is the Current Market Status of the Military Trainer Aircraft Industry? What's Market Competition in This Industry, Both Company and Country Wise? What's Market Analysis of Military Trainer Aircraft Market by Considering Applications and Types?

What Are Projections of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Industry Considering Capacity, Production and Production Value? What Will Be the Estimation of Cost and Profit? What Will Be Market Share, Supply and Consumption? What about imports and exports?

What Is Military Trainer Aircraft Market Chain Analysis by Upstream Raw Materials and Downstream Industry?

What Is the Economic Impact On Military Trainer Aircraft Industry? What are Global Macroeconomic Environment Analysis Results? What Are Global Macroeconomic Environment Development Trends?

What Are Market Dynamics of Military Trainer Aircraft Market? What Are Challenges and Opportunities?

What Should Be Entry Strategies, Countermeasures to Economic Impact, and Marketing Channels for Military Trainer Aircraft Industry?

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Military Trainer Aircraft Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/military-training-aircraft-market/

Reasons to Purchase Military Trainer Aircraft Market Report

Military Trainer Aircraft Market Report provides qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on segmentation involving economic and non-economic factors.

Military Trainer Aircraft Market report outlines market value (USD) data for each segment and sub-segment.

This report indicates the region and segment expected to witness the fastest growth and dominate the market.

Military Trainer Aircraft Market Analysis by geography highlights the consumption of the product/service in the region and indicates the factors affecting the market within each region.

The competitive landscape incorporates the market ranking of the major players, along with new service/product launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions in the past five years of companies profiled.

Extensive company profiles comprising company overview, company insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis for the major market players.

The Industry's current and future market outlook concerning recent developments (which involve growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and restraints of both emerging and developed regions.

Military Trainer Aircraft Market Includes in-depth market analysis from various perspectives through Porter's five forces analysis and provides insight into the market through Value Chain.

Reasons for the Research Report

The study provides a thorough overview of the global Military Trainer Aircraft market. Compare your performance to that of the market as a whole.

Aim to maintain competitiveness while innovations from established key players fuel market growth.

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What does the report include?

Drivers, restrictions, and opportunities are among the qualitative elements covered in the worldwide Military Trainer Aircraft market analysis.

The competitive environment of current and potential participants in the Military Trainer Aircraft market is covered in the report, as well as those companies' strategic product development ambitions.

According to the component, application, and industry vertical, this study analyzes the market qualitatively and quantitatively. Additionally, the report offers comparable data for the important regions.

For each segment mentioned above, actual market sizes and forecasts have been given.

Who should buy this report?

Participants and stakeholders worldwide Military Trainer Aircraft market should find this report useful. The research will be useful to all market participants in the Military Trainer Aircraft industry.

Managers in the Military Trainer Aircraft sector are interested in publishing up-to-date and projected data about the worldwide Military Trainer Aircraft market.

Governmental agencies, regulatory bodies, decision-makers, and organizations want to invest in Military Trainer Aircraft products' market trends.

Market insights are sought for by analysts, researchers, educators, strategy managers, and government organizations to develop plans.

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Custom Market Insights is a market research and advisory company delivering business insights and market research reports to large, small, and medium-scale enterprises. We assist clients with strategies and business policies and regularly work towards achieving sustainable growth in their respective domains.

CMI provides a one-stop solution for data collection to investment advice. The expert analysis of our company digs out essential factors that help to understand the significance and impact of market dynamics. The professional experts apply clients inside on the aspects such as strategies for future estimation fall, forecasting or opportunity to grow, and consumer survey.

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Custom Market Insights

[220+ Pages Latest Report] According to a market research study published by Custom Market Insights, the demand analysis of the Global Pearl Jewelry Market size & share revenue was valued at approximately USD 8.50 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 10.49 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 24.37 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 12.9% between 2022 and 2030. The key market players listed in the report with their sales, revenues and strategies are American Pearl Company Inc, Atelier Mon, Chandrani Pearls, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Company Limited, Dogeared Inc, Majorica Pearl, Tiffany & Co., Mikimoto, Misaki, Shop TJC Limited, Tanishq Titan Company Ltd., Tasaki & Co. Ltd, Boucheron The Pearl Source, Tiffany and Co., and others.

Austin,TX, USA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Custom Market Insights has published a new research report titled Pearl Jewelry Market Size, Trends and Insights By Pearl Type Insights (Freshwater, Saltwater), By Type Insights (Necklace, Earrings, Rings, Others), By Material Insights (Gold, Silver, Others), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand for global Pearl Jewelry Market size & share was valued at approximately USD 8.50 Billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 10.49 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach a value of around USD 24.37 Billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 12.9% during the forecast period 2023 to 2030.

The APAC region had the highest share in 2022 and is anticipated to experience the most rapid growth rate throughout the forecast period, as per the analysis of the CMI Expert. The demand for opulent and high-quality jewelry has resulted in an increase in the saltwater pearl sector.

Story continues

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Pearl Jewelry Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-free-sample/?reportid=23338

Pearl Jewelry Market: Dynamics and Growth Drivers

The pearl jewelry market is influenced by various factors that contribute to its dynamics. Some of these dynamics include:

Consumer preferences: Consumer preferences for high-quality and luxurious jewelry have a significant impact on the pearl jewelry market. As consumers become more aware of the benefits and value of pearls, the demand for pearl jewelry is expected to increase.

Economic conditions: Economic conditions play a crucial role in the growth of the pearl jewelry market. As economies grow and consumers have more disposable income, they are more likely to purchase pearl jewelry.

Fashion trends: The fashion industry has a considerable impact on the pearl jewelry market. As fashion trends change, the demand for specific types of pearl jewelry may increase or decrease.

Availability and supply: The availability of pearls and the supply chains efficiency also affects the pearl jewelry market. Fluctuations in supply and demand can impact prices and influence consumer behavior.

Technology advancements: Technology advancements in pearl cultivation, jewelry design, and production techniques have a significant impact on the pearl jewelry market. Advancements in technology can lead to more efficient production processes and higher quality products, which can drive demand and sales.

(A free sample of the Pearl Jewelry report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)



Our Free Sample Report Consists of the following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2023 updated report.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package.

About 220+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on the Request.

Updated Regional Analysis with a Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2023

Includes Tables and figures have been updated.

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Custom Market Insights (CMI) research methodology

(Please note that the sample of the Pearl Jewelry report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

Request a Customized Copy of the Pearl Jewelry Market Report @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-customization/?reportid=23338

Pearl Jewelry Market  Significant Threats

As with any industry, the pearl jewelry market faces several significant threats. Some of the key threats to the pearl jewelry market include:

Environmental Factors: The pearl industry relies on healthy marine environments to produce high-quality pearls. However, environmental factors such as pollution, climate change, and overfishing can have a significant impact on the quality and availability of pearls. These factors can also harm the marine ecosystem, which can have long-term consequences for the pearl industry.

Competition from Synthetic Pearls : Synthetic pearls are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a cost-effective alternative to natural pearls. As technology continues to improve, the quality of synthetic pearls is also improving, which poses a significant threat to the natural pearl industry.

Changing Consumer Preferences : Consumer preferences for jewelry are constantly evolving, and pearl jewelry may fall out of favor with some segments of the market. Changing fashion trends and consumer attitudes toward sustainability and ethical sourcing could also impact the demand for pearl jewelry.

Counterfeit Products : The pearl jewelry market is also at risk from counterfeit products. Fake pearls are often difficult to detect, and counterfeiters can make significant profits by selling them as genuine pearls. This can damage the reputation of the pearl jewelry industry and impact consumer confidence in the market.

Economic Factors: Economic factors such as currency fluctuations and changes in consumer spending patterns can also impact the pearl jewelry market. Economic downturns can lead to a decrease in demand for luxury items such as pearl jewelry, while economic growth can drive demand for these products. Overall, the pearl jewelry market faces several significant threats, including environmental factors, competition from synthetic pearls, changing consumer preferences, counterfeit products, and economic factors. Companies in the industry must stay vigilant and adapt to changing market conditions to remain competitive and successful.

Report Scope

Feature of the Report Details Market Size in 2023 USD 10.49 Billion Projected Market Size in 2030 USD 24.37 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 8.50 Billion CAGR Growth Rate 12.9% CAGR (2022-2030) Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2032 Key Segment By Pearl Type Insights, Type Insights, Material Insights, and Region Report Coverage Revenue Estimation and Forecast, Company Profile, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Recent Trends Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America Buying Options Request tailored purchasing options to fulfil your requirements for research.

Click Here to Access a Free Sample Report of the Global Pearl Jewelry Market @ https://www.custommarketinsights.com/request-for-free-sample/?reportid=23338

Pearl Jewelry Market: COVID-19 Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the pearl jewelry market. The market experienced a decline in sales in 2020 due to the pandemics economic impact, which led to reduced consumer spending on non-essential items like jewelry.

However, as the world adjusts to the pandemic, the pearl jewelry market has started to recover. Consumers are increasingly looking for high-quality, durable, and timeless pieces of jewelry, and pearls are viewed as an excellent investment due to their durability and long-lasting value.

The pandemic has also resulted in a shift towards e-commerce, with more consumers opting for online purchases. Online sales have been a key factor in driving the pearl jewelry markets growth during the pandemic.

In terms of the supply chain, the pandemic has caused disruptions in the production and distribution of pearls and pearl jewelry. Lockdowns and travel restrictions have impacted pearl cultivation and the ability to transport pearls to markets, leading to supply chain challenges. However, efforts are being made to adapt to the new normal, and the pearl jewelry market is expected to continue to recover in the coming years. As the global economy improves and the pandemic subsides, the market is likely to experience sustained growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for high-quality and luxurious pearl jewelry.

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Key questions answered in this report:

What is the size of the Pearl Jewelry market and what is its expected growth rate?

What are the primary driving factors that push the Pearl Jewelry market forward?

What are the Pearl Jewelry Industry's top companies?

What are the different categories that the Pearl Jewelry Market caters to?

What will be the fastest-growing segment or region?

In the value chain, what role do essential players play?

What is the procedure for getting a free copy of the Pearl Jewelry market sample report and company profiles?

Key Offerings:

Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20232030

Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Leading Trends

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Types of Services, by End-User Services, and by regions

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

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Pearl Jewelry Market  Significant Threats

As with any industry, the pearl jewelry market faces several significant threats. Some of the key threats to the pearl jewelry market include:

Environmental Factors: The pearl industry relies on healthy marine environments to produce high-quality pearls. However, environmental factors such as pollution, climate change, and overfishing can have a significant impact on the quality and availability of pearls. These factors can also harm the marine ecosystem, which can have long-term consequences for the pearl industry.

Competition from Synthetic Pearls : Synthetic pearls are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a cost-effective alternative to natural pearls. As technology continues to improve, the quality of synthetic pearls is also improving, which poses a significant threat to the natural pearl industry.

Changing Consumer Preferences : Consumer preferences for jewelry are constantly evolving, and pearl jewelry may fall out of favor with some segments of the market. Changing fashion trends and consumer attitudes toward sustainability and ethical sourcing could also impact the demand for pearl jewelry.

Counterfeit Products : The pearl jewelry market is also at risk from counterfeit products. Fake pearls are often difficult to detect, and counterfeiters can make significant profits by selling them as genuine pearls. This can damage the reputation of the pearl jewelry industry and impact consumer confidence in the market.

Economic Factors: Economic factors such as currency fluctuations and changes in consumer spending patterns can also impact the pearl jewelry market. Economic downturns can lead to a decrease in demand for luxury items such as pearl jewelry, while economic growth can drive demand for these products. Overall, the pearl jewelry market faces several significant threats, including environmental factors, competition from synthetic pearls, changing consumer preferences, counterfeit products, and economic factors. Companies in the industry must stay vigilant and adapt to changing market conditions to remain competitive and successful.

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Browse the full Pearl Jewelry Market Size, Trends and Insights By Pearl Type Insights (Freshwater, Saltwater), By Type Insights (Necklace, Earrings, Rings, Others), By Material Insights (Gold, Silver, Others), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032 Report at https://www.custommarketinsights.com/report/pearl-jewelry-market/

List of the prominent players in the Pearl Jewelry Market:

American Pearl Company Inc

Atelier Mon

Chandrani Pearls

Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Company Limited

Dogeared Inc

Majorica Pearl

Tiffany & Co.

Mikimoto

Misaki

Shop TJC Limited

Tanishq Titan Company Ltd.

Tasaki & Co. Ltd

Boucheron The Pearl Source

Tiffany and Co. (LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton)

Others

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The Pearl Jewelry Market is segmented as follows:

Pearl Type Insights:

Freshwater

Saltwater

Type Insights:

Necklace

Earrings

Rings

Others

Material Insights:

Gold

Silver

Others

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By Region

North America

The U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

France

The UK

Spain

Germany

Italy

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia

South Korea

Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Egypt

Kuwait

South Africa

Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America

Brazil

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Browse More Consumer Goods Related Reports:

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Hair Extensions Market : Hair Extensions Market Size, Trends and Insights By Type (Synthetic Hair Extension, Human Hair Extension, Animal Hair Extension), By End Use (Professional, Personal), By Fitting Type (Clip-In, Micro Link, Tape-In, Glue-In), By Distribution Channel (Retail Stores, Super Markets, E-Commerce), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032

Intimate Apparel Market : Intimate Apparel Market Size, Trends and Insights By Gender (Women, Men) By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032

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Spas and Beauty Salons Market : Spas and Beauty Salons Market Size, Trends and Insights By Spa Service (Day Spas, Club Spas, Medical Spas, Destination Spas, Mineral SpringS Spa, Resort and Hotel Spas), By Salon Service (Hair, Skin, Nail, Others), By End User (Men, Women), and By Region - Global Industry Overview, Statistical Data, Competitive Analysis, Share, Outlook, and Forecast 20232032

Browse More Related Reports:

This Pearl Jewelry Market Research/Analysis Report Contains Answers to the following Questions.

Which Trends Are Causing These Developments?

Who Are the Global Key Players in This Pearl Jewelry Market? What are Their Company Profile, Product Information, and Contact Information?

What Was the Global Market Status of the Pearl Jewelry Market? What Was the Capacity, Production Value, Cost and PROFIT of the Pearl Jewelry Market?

What Is the Current Market Status of the Pearl Jewelry Industry? What's Market Competition in This Industry, Both Company and Country Wise? What's Market Analysis of Pearl Jewelry Market by Considering Applications and Types?

What Are Projections of the Global Pearl Jewelry Industry Considering Capacity, Production and Production Value? What Will Be the Estimation of Cost and Profit? What Will Be Market Share, Supply and Consumption? What about imports and exports?

What Is Pearl Jewelry Market Chain Analysis by Upstream Raw Materials and Downstream Industry?

What Is the Economic Impact On Pearl Jewelry Industry? What are Global Macroeconomic Environment Analysis Results? What Are Global Macroeconomic Environment Development Trends?

What Are Market Dynamics of Pearl Jewelry Market? What Are Challenges and Opportunities?

What Should Be Entry Strategies, Countermeasures to Economic Impact, and Marketing Channels for Pearl Jewelry Industry?

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Reasons to Purchase Pearl Jewelry Market Report

Pearl Jewelry Market Report provides qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on segmentation involving economic and non-economic factors.

Pearl Jewelry Market report outlines market value (USD) data for each segment and sub-segment.

This report indicates the region and segment expected to witness the fastest growth and dominate the market.

Pearl Jewelry Market Analysis by geography highlights the consumption of the product/service in the region and indicates the factors affecting the market within each region.

The competitive landscape incorporates the market ranking of the major players, along with new service/product launches, partnerships, business expansions, and acquisitions in the past five years of companies profiled.

Extensive company profiles comprising company overview, company insights, product benchmarking, and SWOT analysis for the major market players.

The Industry's current and future market outlook concerning recent developments (which involve growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and restraints of both emerging and developed regions.

Pearl Jewelry Market Includes in-depth market analysis from various perspectives through Porter's five forces analysis and provides insight into the market through Value Chain.

Reasons for the Research Report

The study provides a thorough overview of the global Pearl Jewelry market. Compare your performance to that of the market as a whole.

Aim to maintain competitiveness while innovations from established key players fuel market growth.

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What does the report include?

Drivers, restrictions, and opportunities are among the qualitative elements covered in the worldwide Pearl Jewelry market analysis.

The competitive environment of current and potential participants in the Pearl Jewelry market is covered in the report, as well as those companies' strategic product development ambitions.

According to the component, application, and industry vertical, this study analyzes the market qualitatively and quantitatively. Additionally, the report offers comparable data for the important regions.

For each segment mentioned above, actual market sizes and forecasts have been given.

Who should buy this report?

Participants and stakeholders worldwide Pearl Jewelry market should find this report useful. The research will be useful to all market participants in the Pearl Jewelry industry.

Managers in the Pearl Jewelry sector are interested in publishing up-to-date and projected data about the worldwide Pearl Jewelry market.

Governmental agencies, regulatory bodies, decision-makers, and organizations want to invest in Pearl Jewelry products' market trends.

Market insights are sought for by analysts, researchers, educators, strategy managers, and government organizations to develop plans.

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Executive Summary

Diptia is a patent-pending bioactive organic fertiliser derived from insect frass

Formulated to prevent fungal plant diseases and build soil health

100% organic fertiliser formulated from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) frass, with added micronutrients and microbial biocontrol agents

Composted and enhanced with a microbial inoculant and insect chitin from BSF

By reintroducing frass-based products back into agriculture, we are getting closer to the stability and resilience of a natural ecosystem

SINGAPORE, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --

Leading Agtech company, Nutrition Technologies, launches Diptia biofertilizer from insect frass

The Product Innovation

On the 5 May 2023, Nutrition Technologies launched their new bioactive organic fertiliser, Diptia, specifically designed & formulated to combat fungal plant diseases, and protect soil from infection. Diptia is a patent pending Nutrition Technologies product derived from Black Soldier Fly frass, that has been composted and enhanced with a microbial biocontrol agent and insect chitin. The bacteria was isolated from the BSF larvae itself, and has been shown to inhibit plant pathogens. The chitin is sourced from the exoskeleton of the mature insect pupae and is added to the product to increase the available chitin. These components work together to protect the plant root zone from phytopathogenic fungi while improving the plant's natural defences against disease.

The problem being solved

Fungal diseases of crops are increasingly prevalent in tropical agriculture and lack viable prevention and control measures. These diseases cause billions of dollars in losses every year, as well as posing a huge risk to food security. For example, in Malaysia alone Ganoderma boninense has infected over 151,208 Ha and generated losses of RM1.3 billion (USD300 million) per year through reduced yields and dead trees. As a soil pathogen that infects trees through the roots, the infection is often undetected for 10+ years. Similarly, Fusarium oxysporum

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f. sp. cubense (Foc TR4) poses an existential threat to the cavendish banana industry, worth USD25 billion annually, and makes up 99% of all banana exports. Foc TR4 causes a type of Panama disease, for which there is neither an effective method of treatment nor prevention.

Conventional solutions and the need for innovation

Conventional disease control measures currently rely on fungicides and aggressive sanitization such as burning the soil. For many fungal pathogens these methods are rarely effective, where they do work they are associated with damaged soils and provide the conditions for the development of fungicide-resistance strains. Diptia provides a natural and potent alternative that uses multiple modes of action to both prevent the pathogen from reaching the plant roots, and improving plant defences.

Multiple modes of action future-proof the performance

Insect frass is a common nutrient source for plants in nature, and plants have complex mechanisms to benefit from frass. For instance, plants have receptors that recognize chitin in their environments - usually an indication of fungal attack - which stimulates the upregulation of their immune system in response. By reintroducing frass-based products back into agriculture, we are getting closer to the stability and resilience of a natural ecosystem. The frass of the Black Soldier Fly larvae (Hermetia illucens, BSF) have particularly powerful antifungal properties thanks to their life-history - a tropical insect that evolved in competition with fungi for access to the same nutrients. That evolutionary arms race gave the BSF powerful molecular and microbiological tools to inhibit fungi, and encourage beneficial microbes.

In addition to the plant health benefits of Diptia, it is also a premium organic fertiliser with an attractive NPK profile, carbon content and rich micronutrients, and the high microbial activity of the product improves both soil structure and health. These elements combine in a way that means farm soil can actually improve over time, rather than becoming depleted, adding to the financial benefits of Diptia for farmers.

Tested in the Lab and in the Field

Diptia has been rigorously evaluated in laboratory conditions( in-vitro) and in greenhouse and field conditions (in-vivo). In-vitro Diptia was found to inhibit Foc TR4 by up to 90% and Ganoderma boninense by up to 82% in multiple antifungal assays which includes disk diffusion, sample-amended medium and dual layer agar methods. Results from a third-party greenhouse pot trial with Cavendish banana and Foc TR4 indicate that Diptia and a soon-to-be-released liquid foliar product resulted in a Disease Severity Index as low as 4.17% compared to 100% in the control. The trial was conducted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Baity Saidi of the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), she is also a research associate at the Laboratory of Sustainable Agronomy and Crop Protection, Institute of Plantation Studies, UPM. "These results demonstrate a strong disease suppression potential by the Diptia product, which could ultimately help control this economically devastating disease for Malaysian farmers." said Dr. Noor Baity Saidi. The trial is a significant milestone and adds to a growing portfolio of field application trials that will soon be followed by new larger field challenge trials in banana and oil palm.

Low energy, sustainable production system

Nutrition Technologies have a low-energy tropical production system that uses a unique combination of micro-organisms and Black Soldier Flies to bioconvert 60,000 tonnes of organic by-products into value-added products for livestock and agriculture. As a tropical species, the Black Soldier Fly larvae grow quickly and efficiently in the ambient Malaysian climate, meaning that very little energy is required to grow or breed the flies. This low-energy model means that the company benefits from a very low cost of production, but with the same high standards as any European or North American manufacturer, and is able to pass-on those savings to the customer. This makes Nutrition Technologies' products some of the most competitively priced insect products in the world, without compromising on quality or safety. The company currently ships industrial volumes of material throughout Asia, North & South America and Europe, from the two hectare factory in Malaysia.

"This is the first of two new plant health products we will be launching this year " said Nick Piggott, Co-CEO, Nutrition Technologies. "Understanding how insects fit into the incredibly complex natural ecosystem has enabled us to harness their power for decomposition, and create a new plant health value proposition not found anywhere else in the world. Diptia directly addresses two of the most economically dangerous plant pathogens in the world - Ganoderma in oil palms and Fusarium oxysporum in bananas. Both of these diseases have the potential to wreak havoc on the global food supply chain if left un-checked, so the release of Diptia is a massive step forward in securing the future supply of these two staple crops".

The insect sector has gathered increasing attention over the past few years, with the global insect protein market alone estimated to be worth US$343 million in 2021, and expected to grow with a CAGR of 26.49% to reach US$1.3 billion by 2027. As a sustainable solution to help minimise multiple unsustainable practices, the sector as a whole has seen investments totalling nearly US$1 billion.

About Nutrition Technologies

Nutrition Technologies is biotech company headquartered in Singapore and operating in Malaysia on a mission to address global food security. Founded in 2015 by two British entrepreneurs, Nick Piggott & Tom Berry, the company manufactures sustainable animal feed ingredients and biofertilisers, using a unique combination of biotechnology and black soldier fly larvae to recycle nutrients from agricultural and food processing by- products. In 2021 the company scaled-up to industrial production with the launch of its two-hectare factory in Johor, Malaysia. It is now a step further on its path towards developing a sustainable circular economy within the agricultural sector. Nutrition Technologies plans to build several similar size facilities across Southeast Asia in the next 5 years. More information can be found at www.nutrition-technologies.com

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SOURCE Nutrition Technologies
Sundry Photography / Getty Images

Americans who expected to receive free tax services from TurboTax only to be charged for them will soon receive settlement payments thanks to a successful $141 million lawsuit against the tax software company.

See: How To Avoid Paying Taxes Legally  and the 11 Craziest Ways People Have Done It

Find: 3 Signs Youre Serious About Raising Your Credit Score

In a multi-state settlement reached last year, TurboTax owner Intuit Inc. was ordered to pay the money to about 4.4 million people, the AP reported. The affected parties were low-income Americans who were eligible for the IRS Free File program but ended up paying TurboTax for federal returns filed in the 2016, 2017 and 2018 tax years. New York Attorney General Letitia James accused TurboTax of predatory and deceptive marketing.

You might be eligible to receive a payment if you were told you didnt qualify for the free software, paid Intuit to complete your return and didnt use the companys own Free File product in a previous year, according to the settlement website. Millions of people should receive checks.

Most eligible consumers should receive around $30, CNBC reported, though payments might go as high as $85 if you used TurboTax during all three tax years. Rust Consulting, the settlement fund administrator, will contact you by email if you are eligible for a payment. Checks will be issued throughout May 2023.

James investigation focused on how TurboTax steered customers into paying for tax prep even though they qualified for the free government program, according to ProPublica, whose 2019 reporting led to the investigation.

TurboTaxs predatory and deceptive marketing cheated millions of low-income Americans who were trying to fulfill their legal duties to file their taxes, James said. Today we are righting that wrong and putting money back into the pockets of hardworking taxpayers who should have never paid to file their taxes.

Intuit did not admit wrongdoing in the settlement.

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The settlement underscores the importance of digging deeper into ad claims to find out if they are legitimate, legal experts say. The fact that it happened in the first place shows how easy it is for companies to mislead customers.

In a February 2023 blog, the Todd Friedman law offices noted that if false advertising were obvious, it wouldnt be so successful.

One common deception is claiming that a product is clinically proven to do something. For example, last decade LOreal faced fraudulent advertising charges for claiming that its Lancome Genifique and LOreal Paris Youth Code skincare products were clinically proven to help customers skin look younger even though the company had no scientific evidence to back the claim up, according to the Friedman blog.

Another example was Volkswagen claiming that some of its diesel vehicles had lower levels of pollutants. As the blog noted, the Federal Trade Commission later found that the car company used illegal emission defeat devices that aimed to mask high emissions during government tests.

When youre considering a product, its best not to take the advertising and packaging at its word, the Friedman blog said.

Take Our Poll: What Are You Worth to Your Company?

Learn: This Secret IRS Loophole Lets You Reduce Your Retirement Taxes

Here are some things to look for to spot false or misleading ads, according to a separate blog from TorHoerman Law:

The price seems too good to be true for certain product types.

Photos and descriptions dont match up with the product youve received.

Online reviews of a product that are overwhelmingly positive but dont provide realistic context. Even the best products get poor reviews from time to time.

A business doesnt respond to inquiries or questions about its product.

The business is not officially registered or recognized with government agencies such as the Better Business Bureau.

If you suspect youve been the victim of a product sold under false or deceptive advertising, TorHoerman Law recommends contacting a product liability attorney to get information on legal recourses available.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: What You Should Learn From TurboTaxs False Advertising and $141 Million Settlement
FILE PHOTO: A representation of bitcoin is seen in an illustration picture

(Reuters) - Liechtenstein plans to allow Bitcoin payments for certain state services, Prime Minister Daniel Risch told the German business daily Handelsblatt in an interview.

"A payment option with Bitcoin is coming," Risch said in the interview on Sunday, without giving a specific timeframe.

Risch, who is also Liechtenstein's finance minister, said the country plans to accept deposits in Bitcoin and immediately exchange them for the Swiss franc, the national currency.

The prime minister said there was no plan for any big risks with state money but added he was open to investing state reserves in Bitcoin in the future.

The state's reserves, which are primarily invested in the capital market, currently amount to 2.23 billion Swiss francs, ($2.51 billion), Handelsblatt reported, citing the finance ministry.

"Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are still too risky. But this assessment can of course change," said Risch.

($1 = 0.8886 Swiss francs)

(Reporting by Bartosz Dabrowski in Gdansk)
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the US and Indian national security advisers are discussing a US proposal to link the Middle East nations through a network of railway lines using Indian expertise and connect the region to South Asia via sea lanes, reports said.

The project is one of the key initiatives the US wants to push in the Middle East as China's influence in the region grows. The Middle East is a key part of China's Belt and Road vision, said Axios news website.

The initiative would include connecting Arab countries in the Levant and the Gulf via a network of railways that will also connect to India through seaports in the Gulf, the sources said, according to Axios.

The idea for the new initiative came up during talks at another forum called I2U2, which includes the US, Israel, the UAE and India, according to sources.

White House National Security adviser Jake Sullivan, during his speech on Thursday at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, said: If you remember nothing else from my speech, remember I2U2, because you will be hearing more about it as we go forward," he said.

Sullivan added the fundamental notion is to connect South Asia to the Middle East to the US in ways that advance our economic technology and diplomacy."

He also said a number of projects are already underway and some new exciting steps that were looking forward to undertaking in the months ahead."

Sources quoted by Indian Express newspaper said Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Sunday met his counterparts in Saudi Arabia.

Sources in Delhi explained that the Indian side is keen to participate in the project as it fulfils its strategic objectives.
Digital Quilt Provides Living Memorial

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The livesproject.org provides both a living memorial to victims of the Fentanyl deaths and a call to action to stop the senseless loss of life. The National Crime Prevention Council and McGruff the Crime Dog created the digital quilt as a way for families and loved ones impacted by the crisis to help others from facing the same fate.

ncpc.org (PRNewsfoto/National Crime Prevention Council)

"This is an important day to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit fentanyl," said NCPC Executive Director Paul DelPonte. "The quilt plays homage to the AIDS quilt which helped erase stigma associated with the disease. The digital format serves as reminder that so many fentanyl victims were dupped into their own death by online trafficking of fake drugs."

The Lives Project shares the stories of hundreds of individuals from all walks of lives and age ranges who have been lost to Fentanyl. Stories are submitted by loved ones and are populated via a digital formal to call attention to online criminal behavior and fake pill transactions on social media. It will continue to grow as long as this crisis continues.

The liveproject.org quilt is part of a multiprong effort by NCPC to reduce the supply, demand, and trafficking of fentanyl-lace drugs. Just two milligrams of the substance can be fatal and drug cartels and dealers are adding the potent killer to a range of fake pharmaceuticals often sold to children and others under more popular drug names.

NCPC has been actively working with federal, state, and local law enforcement to stop fentanyl-laced drugs from being sold on social media platforms and the internet. Livesproject.org provides a visible platform to support families and others who have lost a loved by advocating for needed change.

Follow McGruff the Crime Dog on social media @McGruffatNCPC to learn more.

About the National Crime Prevention Council

The nonprofit National Crime Prevention Council is home to McGruff the Crime Dog and has helped generations of Americans Take A Bite Out Of Crime through public education campaigns and advocating for public policies to make the U.S. safer. Follow NCPC on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram (@McGruffatNCPC), and TikTok (@McGruff_CrimeDog).

Story continues

Media Contact:

Tatiana Peralta

Communications Manager

tperalta@ncpc.org

954-895-5980

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SOURCE National Crime Prevention Council
- 2022 revenue reached 128.998 bln yuan, first time surpassing 100 bln yuan

- Net profit in 2022 stands at 14.812 bln yuan, up 63.02% y-o-y

- LONGi says its 2023 revenue expected to surpass 160 bln yuan

XI'AN, China, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- LONGi Green Energy Technology, a global leading renewable energy company, released its annual report for 2022 and 2023 Q1. According to the financial report, the company achieved a revenue of 128.998 billion yuan in 2022, a year-on-year increase of 60.03%. This is the first time that LONGi's yearly revenue stands above the 100 billion yuan level.

For the first quarter of 2023, LONGi's revenue reached 28.319 billion yuan, up 52.35% from last year. In the report, LONGi announced that its 2023 revenue is expected to surpass 160 bln yuan.

LONGi's 2022 net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company was 14.812 billion yuan, a y-o-y increase of 63.02%. Its net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company after deducting non-recurring gains and losses was 14.414 billion yuan, a y-o-y increase of 63.31%.

The report shows that in 2022 LONGi has produced a total of 85.06GW of monocrystalline silicon wafers, including 42.52GW for external sales and 42.54GW for internal use, steadily ranking 1st in global shipments of monocrystalline silicon wafers for 9 consecutive years. In 2022, LONGi produced 46.76GW of monocrystalline silicon modules, including 46.08GW for external sales and 0.68GW for internal use, steadily ranking 1st in global shipments of modules and market share for 3 consecutive years.

During the reporting period, LONGi's net cash flow from operating activities was 24.37 billion yuan, an increase of 97.77% y-o-y. The company's monetary funds was 54.372 billion yuan, accounting for 38.96% of total assets, with a y-o-y increase of 86.38%.

From 2020 to 2022, LONGi's asset-liability ratio was 59.38%, 51.31% and 55.39% respectively. The company adheres to a prudent business philosophy and maintains a reasonable asset liability ratio. And the company's weighted average net return on assets is 27.23%, 21.45% and 26.95% respectively.

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Since its IPO in 2012 to September 2022, LONGi has invested over 18 billion yuan on R&D. By the end of 2022, the company has obtained 2,132 patents. LONGi now has a team of 4,036 employees for R&D and technological innovation, accounting for 6.66% of its entire global staff.

During the reporting period, LONGi has set a new world record of p-type HJT silicon solar cell efficiency at 26.81%, certified by the Institut fur Solarenergieforschung in Hameln (ISFH). And the maximum mass production efficiency of its innovative module product Hi-MO 6 exceeds 23.2%. LONGi has made continuous breakthroughs in the industrialization of new high-efficiency solar cells, the R&D of original module technologies, and the transformation of industrial achievements.

By the end of 2022, LONGi's production capacity for monocrystalline silicon wafers, cells, and modules have respectively reached 133GW, 50GW, and 85GW.

The report also shows that LONGi has accelerated digital transformation and smart manufacturing development. With the transformation and upgrade of its manufacturing units and production lines, the company has reduced costs and improved efficiency.

The company has also announced its goals for 2023, with the company's production capacity for monocrystalline silicon wafers expected to expand to 190GW, monocrystalline silicon cells expected to expand to 110GW, and monocrystalline silicon modules expected to expand to 130GW.

For product shipments, LONGi is expected to achieve 130GW of monocrystalline silicon wafers (internal use included) and 85GW of monocrystalline silicon modules (internal use included).

LONGi said the company had achieved sustained and stable growth by ensuring product delivery, and the company had proactively undertaken the pressure of higher costs of raw materials. With the expansion of production capacity and the increased output of silicon materials, silicon materials prices of the industrial chain have returned to normal levels. The company is expected to achieve good performance in 2023.

For international markets, LONGi said the company has increased investment and accelerated the construction and upgrade of high-efficiency production lines in China to satisfy the increasingly diversified needs of the clients. The company has also optimized its investment internationally, including increasing investment in its production base in Kuching in Malaysia and completing the upgrade of its production base in Vietnam. The company is working to improve its production and operation capabilities internationally to satisfy the growing market demand outside of China.

About LONGi

Founded in 2000, LONGi is committed to being the world's leading solar technology company, focusing on customer-driven value creation for full scenario energy transformation.

Under its mission of 'making the best of solar energy to build a green world', LONGi has dedicated itself to technology innovation and established five business sectors, covering mono silicon wafers cells and modules, commercial & industrial distributed solar solutions, green energy solutions and hydrogen equipment. The company has honed its capabilities to provide green energy and has more recently, also embraced green hydrogen products and solutions to support global zero carbon development. www.longi.com/en

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SOURCE LONGi
(Bloomberg) -- Lynas Rare Earths Ltd.s shares surged after Malaysian authorities granted a six-month extension to the Australia miner to get its rare earth plant in line with environmental requirements.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The deadline for the facility to be radiation-free has been extended to January 2024, according to Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang. He confirmed an earlier report by the Straits Times on the decision.

Lynas shares had their biggest one-day gain in more than two years on Monday, and closed 12% higher to A$7.37 ($5) in Sydney.

The Lynas rare earths refinery in Malaysia is the largest outside China, but has been dogged by environmental concerns and community opposition. The ban threatened to constrain supply of materials that are critical in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and high-tech military equipment.

The government issued a fresh three-year license to Lynass plant based in the state of Pahang in February, with one of the conditions requiring the need to move cracking and leaching of lanthanide concentrate to an area outside of Malaysia by July 1. Malaysian authorities say the business unit generates radioactive waste.

Lynas is building an alternative processing plant in Australia, but it was unlikely to be ready by the Malaysian bans original start date in July. That facility, in Kalgoorlie in Western Australia, would provide the more pollutive early stage processing, with a more refined product being sent to Malaysia for finishing.

READ: Lynas Eyes More Rare Earths Capacity If Malaysia Plant Shuts

The decision to delay the ban was relayed to Lynas on Friday after an appeal hearing in April, Chang said. His ministry will issue a statement on the issue on Monday, he told Bloomberg News.

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Lynas acknowledged the delay in a statement on Monday, but said it would continue to seek options to challenge the ban.

--With assistance from James Fernyhough.

(Updates with closed share price in third paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
 Findings from two clinical study presentations in adults with HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 provide insight into the appropriate use of terlipressin for the care of critically ill patients2,3 

DUBLIN, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE American: MNK), a global specialty pharmaceutical company, today announced the presentation of results from two clinical studies for adults with hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) with rapid reduction in kidney function1 treated with TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023, taking place in Chicago, Ill. from May 6-9. Mallinckrodt's pooled analysis of three North American Phase III studies on the incidence of adverse events (AEs) related to bradycardia and arrhythmias in adults with HRS treated with terlipressin was awarded Poster of Distinction status from DDW, and was presented on Sunday, May 7, 2023, 12:30  1:30 p.m. CDT.2 Additionally, Mallinckrodt's subgroup analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III study to assess terlipressin treatment outcomes in adults with HRS compounded by alcoholic hepatitis (AH) will be presented in an oral lecture session today, May 8, 2023, 10:30  10:45 a.m. CDT.3

Mallinckrodt logo

TERLIVAZ is the first and only FDA-approved product indicated for the treatment of adults with HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function,1 an acute and life-threatening condition requiring hospitalization.4 Terlipressin is recommended by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) guidance5 and the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guidelines.6

Please see Limitation of Use and Important Safety Information, including Boxed Warning, below.

Presented by Jasmohan S. Bajaj, School of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Va., the pooled analysis (DDW Poster of Distinction: Su1535) used the largest-to-date prospective database of three North American Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled trials (OT-0401, REVERSE, CONFIRM) to evaluate the incidence of reported bradycardia and arrhythmias in adult patients with HRS treated with terlipressin vs. placebo. All three studies excluded patients with prior arrhythmias and significant cardiovascular disease, and statistical analysis was determined using a Fisher's Exact test.2

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Khurram Jamil, Vice President & Head, Hepatology, Clinical Development & Critical Care at Mallinckrodt, said, "We are excited to share the results from this pooled analysis of the largest HRS patient data set to-date, selected as a DDW 2023 Poster of Distinction, which bolsters our overall understanding of TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection's risk-benefit profile and the significance of adverse events such as bradycardia and arrhythmias,2 to ultimately provide continued support for the use of this treatment in appropriate patients with HRS with rapid reduction in kidney function.1"

The pooled safety population included 598 patients, of which 349 received terlipressin and 249 received placebo. The incidence of episodes of bradycardia was higher in terlipressin-treated patients (6.3%; n=22) compared with placebo-treated patients (0.8%; n=2; P<0.001), and none of these episodes were considered serious. Bradycardia was classified as severe per investigator assessment in 68.2% (n=15/22) of patients in the terlipressin group and in 100% (n=2/2) of patients in the placebo group, and most patients did not require a change in treatment dose (terlipressin: 72.7%; n=16/22 vs. placebo: 50%; n=1/2; P=0.507). One patient treated with terlipressin had a dose interruption, and there were no treatment discontinuations.2

Further, no differences were observed between treatment groups (terlipressin: arrhythmia [0%, n=0/349,]; nodal arrhythmia [0%, n=0/349]; ventricular fibrillation [0%, n=0/349] vs. placebo: arrhythmia [0.8%, n=2/249, P=0.173]; nodal arrhythmia [0.4%, n= 1/249, P=0.416]; ventricular fibrillation [0.4%, n=1/249, P=0.416]. Atrial fibrillation was the most reported arrhythmia across the pooled safety population (total: 4.0%, n=24/598; terlipressin: 3.7%, n=13/349; placebo: 4.4%, n=11/249; P=0.678).2

To be presented by Kevin Korenblat, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo., the key findings of a subgroup analysis (DDW Oral Lecture: 651) of the CONFIRM Phase III study aim to evaluate efficacy of terlipressin treatment in patients with HRS compounded by AH. Diagnosis of baseline AH was via investigator assessment, and data was retrospectively analyzed in patients with AH for verified HRS reversal (defined as the percentage of patients with 2 serum creatinine (SCr) values of 1.5 mg/dL 2 hours apart, while on treatment up to 72 hours after the last dose of study drug), admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), length of ICU stay, and incidence of renal replacement therapy (RRT) by Day 30.3

"The findings of this subgroup analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III study build upon the growing body of evidence supporting the use of TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection as a treatment option among critical care patients with HRS, including its therapeutic ability to drive meaningful clinical outcomes for a significant population of patients with comorbid conditions, such as alcoholic hepatitis,3" added Peter Richardson, MRCP (UK), Executive Vice President & Chief Scientific Officer at Mallinckrodt. "As TERLIVAZ uptake and use among U.S. hospitals continues following FDA approval in 2022, our research at DDW 2023 reflects our ongoing commitment to critically ill patients by pursuing research that provides physicians with the most up-to-date treatment considerations to help inform patient care decisions."

In CONFIRM (n=300), 41% (81/199) of patients in the terlipressin group and 39% (39/101) of the patients in the placebo group had AH at baseline. In the subgroup of patients with AH (n=120), the median Maddrey discriminant function score was similar across treatment groups (terlipressin: 96.9 vs. placebo: 97.7; P=0.681). Verified HRS reversal was achieved in 30.9% (n=25/81) of patients in the terlipressin group vs. 7.7% (n=3/39) in the placebo group (P=0.005).3

Additionally, admission to the ICU was similar for patients in the terlipressin and placebo groups (17.3%, n=14 vs. 17.9%, n=7), whereas mean length of stay in the ICU was shorter for terlipressin (6.9 days) vs. the placebo group (12.4 days). There was a numerical decrease in RRT by Day 30 in the terlipressin group vs. the placebo group (21%, n=17 vs. 25.6%, n= 10).3

These studies were sponsored by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals:

Presented Sunday, May 7, 2023; 12:30  1:30 p.m. CDT:

Poster Su1535*: Low Incidence of Clinically Significant Bradycardia and Arrhythmia in Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Following Terlipressin Treatment: A Pooled Analysis of 3 North American Phase III Clinical Studies2

*Poster of Distinction

To be presented Monday, May 8, 2023; 10:30  10:45 a.m. CDT; South Level, 402:

Oral Lecture 651: Clinical Responses to Terlipressin in the Subgroup of Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Further Compounded by Alcoholic Hepatitis: Analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III Study3

Find more information on the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023 Meeting website.

About Digestive Disease Week

Digestive Disease Week (DDW) is the largest international gathering of physicians, researchers and academics in the fields of gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and gastrointestinal surgery. Jointly sponsored by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute, the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), DDW is an in-person and online meeting from May 6-9, 2023. The meeting showcases more than 3,100 abstracts and hundreds of lectures on the latest advances in GI research, medicine and technology. More information can be found at www.ddw.org.

About Hepatorenal Syndrome (HRS)

Hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 is an acute and life-threatening condition that occurs in people with advanced liver disease.4 HRS is classified into two distinct types  a rapidly progressive type that leads to acute renal failure where patients are typically hospitalized for their care and a more chronic type that progresses over weeks to months.4 HRS involving rapid reduction in kidney function1 is estimated to affect between 30,000 and 40,000 Americans annually.7,8 If left untreated, HRS with rapid reduction in kidney function1 has a median survival time of approximately two weeks and greater than 80 percent mortality within three months.9

INDICATION AND LIMITATION OF USE

TERLIVAZ is indicated to improve kidney function in adults with hepatorenal syndrome with rapid reduction in kidney function.

Patients with a serum creatinine >5 mg/dL are unlikely to experience benefit.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: SERIOUS OR FATAL RESPIRATORY FAILURE

TERLIVAZ may cause serious or fatal respiratory failure. Patients with volume overload or with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) Grade 3 are at increased risk. Assess oxygenation saturation (e.g., SpO 2 ) before initiating TERLIVAZ.





Do not initiate TERLIVAZ in patients experiencing hypoxia (e.g., SpO 2 <90%) until oxygenation levels improve. Monitor patients for hypoxia using continuous pulse oximetry during treatment and discontinue TERLIVAZ if SpO 2 decreases below 90%.

Contraindications

TERLIVAZ is contraindicated:

In patients experiencing hypoxia or worsening respiratory symptoms.

In patients with ongoing coronary, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia.

Warnings and Precautions

Serious or Fatal Respiratory Failure: Obtain baseline oxygen saturation and do not initiate TERLIVAZ in hypoxic patients. Monitor patients for changes in respiratory status using continuous pulse oximetry and regular clinical assessments. Discontinue TERLIVAZ in patients experiencing hypoxia or increased respiratory symptoms.



Manage intravascular volume overload by reducing or discontinuing the administration of albumin and/or other fluids and through judicious use of diuretics. Temporarily interrupt, reduce, or discontinue TERLIVAZ treatment until patient volume status improves. Avoid use in patients with ACLF Grade 3 because they are at significant risk for respiratory failure.

Ineligibility for Liver Transplant: TERLIVAZ-related adverse reactions (respiratory failure, ischemia) may make a patient ineligible for liver transplantation, if listed. For patients with high prioritization for liver transplantation (e.g., MELD 35), the benefits of TERLIVAZ may not outweigh its risks.





Ischemic Events: TERLIVAZ may cause cardiac, cerebrovascular, peripheral, or mesenteric ischemia. Avoid use of TERLIVAZ in patients with a history of severe cardiovascular conditions or cerebrovascular or ischemic disease. Discontinue TERLIVAZ in patients who experience signs or symptoms suggestive of ischemic adverse reactions.





Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: TERLIVAZ may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If TERLIVAZ is used during pregnancy, the patient should be informed of the potential risk to the fetus.

Adverse Reactions

The most common adverse reactions (10%) include abdominal pain, nausea, respiratory failure, diarrhea, and dyspnea.

Please click here to see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning.

ABOUT MALLINCKRODT

Mallinckrodt is a global business consisting of multiple wholly owned subsidiaries that develop, manufacture, market and distribute specialty pharmaceutical products and therapies. The company's Specialty Brands reportable segment's areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, hepatology, nephrology, pulmonology, ophthalmology, and oncology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics; cultured skin substitutes and gastrointestinal products. Its Specialty Generics reportable segment includes specialty generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com.

Mallinckrodt uses its website as a channel of distribution of important company information, such as press releases, investor presentations and other financial information. It also uses its website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding the company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the Investor Relations page of the website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to the website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the Investor Relations page of the website.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELATED TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains forward-looking statements, including with regard to TERLIVAZ and its potential impact on patients. The statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements: satisfaction of regulatory and other requirements; actions of regulatory bodies and other governmental authorities; changes in laws and regulations; issues with product quality, manufacturing or supply, or patient safety issues; and other risks identified and described in more detail in the "Risk Factors" section of Mallinckrodt's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, all of which are available on its website. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date hereof and Mallinckrodt does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

CONTACT

Media Inquiries

Heather Guzzi

Senior Vice President, Green Room Communications

973-524-4112

hguzzi@grcomms.com

Investor Relations

Daniel J. Speciale

Global Corporate Controller & Chief Investor Relations Officer

314-654-3638

daniel.speciale@mnk.com

Derek Belz

Vice President, Investor Relations

314-654-3950

derek.belz@mnk.com

Mallinckrodt, the "M" brand mark and the Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals logo are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company. Other brands are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company or their respective owners.

2023 Mallinckrodt. US-2300189 5/23

References

1 TERLIVAZ (terlipressin) for injection. [Prescribing Information]. Mallinckrodt Hospital Products Inc.

2 Bajaj JS, et al. Low Incidence of Clinically Significant Bradycardia and Arrhythmia in Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Following Terlipressin Treatment: A Pooled Analysis of 3 North American Phase III Clinical Studies. Abstract Presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023. May 2023.

3 Korenblat, K et al. Clinical Responses to Terlipressin in the Subgroup of Patients with Hepatorenal Syndrome Further Compounded by Alcoholic Hepatitis: Analysis of the CONFIRM Phase III Study. Abstract to be Presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2023. May 2023.

4 National Organization for Rare Disorders. Hepatorenal Syndrome. Available at: https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/hepatorenal-syndrome/. Accessed April 18, 2023.

5 Biggins SW, Angeli P, Garcia-Tsao G, et al. Diagnosis, evaluation, and management of ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome: 2021 practice guidance by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology. 2021;74(2):1014-1048. doi:10.1002/HEP.31884.

6 Bajaj JS, O'Leary JG, Lai JC, et al. Acute-on-chronic liver failure clinical guidelines. Am J Gastroenterol. 2022;1-28.

7 C Pant, B S Jani, M Desai, A Deshpande, Prashant Pandya, Ryan Taylor, R Gilroy, M OIyaee. Heptorenal syndrome in hospitalized patients with chronic liver disease: results from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2002-2012. J of Investig Med. 2016; 64:33-38.

8 United States Census Bureau: Quick Facts. Available at: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045218. Accessed April 18, 2023.

9 Flamm SL, Brown K, Wadei HM., et al. The Current Management of Hepatorenal SyndromeAcute Kidney Injury in the United States and the Potential of Terlipressin. Liver Transpl. 2021;27:1191-1202. https://doi.org/10.1002/lt.26072.

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SOURCE Mallinckrodt plc
Marimaca Copper Corp.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Marimaca Copper Corp. (Marimaca Copper or the Company) (TSX: MARI) announces changes to its executive management team with Petra Decher stepping down from her role as the Companys Chief Financial Officer, and the appointment of Jose Antonio Merino as Managing Director, Chile and Interim CFO.

Ms. Decher has served as CFO since April 26, 2021, and prior to that as a member of the Board of Directors of Marimaca. Ms. Decher has provided integral leadership during the Companys progress toward the development of the Marimaca Copper Project (the Project) and the Company would like to thank her for her contributions.

Mr. Merino, who will be based in Chile, brings over 15 years of international and in-country experience to the Marimaca team. Prior to joining Marimaca, Mr. Merino served as General Manager of Business Development and M&A at SQM, the Chilean-based major mining and chemicals company and one of the worlds largest Lithium producers. As Managing Director, Chile, Mr. Merino will oversee all in-country commercial, finance, administrative and site-based workstreams during the Companys path to development of the Marimaca Project. Mr. Merino will serve as Interim CFO during the Companys search for a full-time appointee. Mr. Merino is a Civil Engineer by training and has served in various senior roles in the natural resource industry across Project Development, M&A, Corporate Finance and Advisory.

Michael Haworth, Chairman of Marimaca Copper, commented:

We would like to thank Petra for her valuable contributions as a member of Marimacas executive team over the last 2 years and, prior to that, as a member of the Board. She has been a core member of the team as the Company has commenced its transition from explorer to developer, and leaves behind an excellent foundation for Marimacas next phase of development.

We are very pleased to welcome Jose Antonio to the Team. His experience and commercial acumen will be exceptionally valuable during this next, critical phase of Marimacas journey to becoming a high-quality copper producer. The Company is rapidly de-risking the Marimaca Project and Jose Antonios leadership will be instrumental in the delivery of our next key milestones including permitting submissions, the planned Definitive Feasibility Study and strategic financing discussions.

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Contact Information

For further information please visit www.marimaca.com or contact:

Tavistock

+44 (0) 207 920 3150

Emily Moss / Adam Baynes

marimaca@tavistock.co.uk

Forward Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Marimaca Copper, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: risks related to share price and market conditions, the inherent risks involved in the mining, exploration and development of mineral properties, the uncertainties involved in interpreting drilling results and other geological data, fluctuating metal prices, the possibility of project delays or cost overruns or unanticipated excessive operating costs and expenses, uncertainties related to the necessity of financing, the availability of and costs of financing needed in the future as well as those factors disclosed in the annual information form of the Company dated March 27, 2023, the final short form base prospectus and other filings made by the Company with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities (which may be viewed at www.sedar.com). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Marimaca Copper undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements contained herein whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.




MEDIP PRO, a real-time digital twin implementation solution based on medical imaging, is now connected to NVIDIA Omniverse

Maximize medical data scalability by sharing and simulating medical-imaging-based digital twins without time and space limitations

SEOUL, South Korea and SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MEDICAL IP (CEO Park Sang-Joon), a digital twin-based medical AI solution company, announced that MEDIP PRO, a medical imaging AI analysis and digital twin implementation software, is now connected to the NVIDIA Omniverse platform.

Medical IP

Among all software around the world, MEDIP PRO is the first and only case to combine medical software based on medical image data with Omniverse.

The Omniverse development platform is optimized for developing custom 3D pipelines and simulating virtual worlds, including digital twins. Omniverse enables interoperability between 3D applications, using Universal Scene Description (USD), opening new industrial metaverse applications to customers and partners.

MEDIP PRO's connection to NVIDIA Omniverse allows users to 3D-model medical images in real time in virtual spaces; and segment, edit, and design through artificial intelligence, allowing the expansion of internal information about the human body into a metaverse without time and space limitations.

"Last year, we were selected as a Premier member of the NVIDIA Inception program based on our innovative technology to expand all classes of human structures into virtual spaces based on medical imagingand have been in discussion to connect our technologies with NVIDIA's ever since," said CEO Park from MEDICAL IP. "With Omniverse, users around the world can more easily leverage MEDIP PRO to expand medical digital twins into the metaverse, which will maximize the competitiveness of our products."

MEDIP PRO is a software that instantly models medical image data such as CT and MRI in 3D and immediately divides organs and lesions through AI to create digital twins of all kinds of anatomical structures that constitute the human body and expand them into virtual space. It has also secured competitiveness in the global market by completing approvals from the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as well as the US FDA and European CE.

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At present, MEDIP PRO is being supplied to university hospitals, medical schools, specialized medical high schools, medical device companies, and others. Many of the top-tier general hospitals in Korea, including Seoul National University Hospital, Samsung Medical Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Chung-Ang University Hospital, Pusan National University Hospital, and Chonnam National University Hospital. Institutions abroad, such as Mayo Clinic, UCLA, and Arizona State University, are also utilizing it.

Through its connection to Omniverse, MEDIP PRO provides various functions, including real-time digital twin sharing; premium-level 3D visualization; virtual surgery simulation in a VR environment; epidemiological and blood-flow simulation; AR/VR augmentation of medical images and engineering analysis.

Park Sang-Joon, CEO of MEDICAL IP, said, "MEDIP PRO is the first software product developed on Omniverse to address medical data, demonstrating its leadership in the 'healthcare metaverse' industry. Just as advances in medical imaging techniques and devices have enabled mankind to acquire information about the human body that cannot be seen with the naked eye, MEDICAL IP will lead progress and innovation in various medical areas such as surgery and treatment optimized for individual patients, drug delivery simulation, and monitoring by implementing the information contained in medical images as a digital twin and expanding it into a virtual space."

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SOURCE MEDICAL IP
Fortune Business Insights

The global medium-density fiberboard market covered major segments by Type (Standard, Moisture Resistant, Fire-Rated), Application (Furniture, Construction & Flooring, Interior Designing, Packaging, and Others) and Regional Forecast.

Pune, India, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global medium-density fiberboard market size was USD 38.25 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow from USD 39.04 billion in 2021 to USD 57.11 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 5.6% during the 2021-2028 period.

The report titled "Medium-Density Fiberboard Market, 2021-2028" is being presented to you by Fortune Business Insights

As per our team's research, it has been found that medium-density fiberboards (MDFs) typically have a greater thickness compared to plywood, while also being notably cost-efficient. These factors render MDFs an exceptional alternative material to be employed in scenarios where humidity resistance and high impact resistance are not critical requirements. For instance, MDFs find widespread usage in the construction of furniture cabinetry, wooden flooring, and surface areas. The substantial thickness of MDFs imparts greater stability and durability to the finished products, while also being a budget-friendly option.

Get a Free Sample Research Report:



https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/medium-density-fiberboard-market-104027

List of Key Players Covered in the Medium-Density Fiberboard Market Report

Daiken Corporation (Japan)

Duratex (Brazil)

Fantoni Spa (Italy)

Greenpanel (India)

M. Kaindl KG (Austria)

Roseburg Forest Products (U.S.)

Rushil Decor (India)

Swiss Krono Group (Switzerland)

Uniboard (Canada)

Unilin (Belgium)

VRG Dongwha (Vietnam)

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. (Canada)

Weyerhaeuser (U.S.)

Kronospan (Switzerland)

Egger (Austria)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attributes Details Forecast Period 2021-2028 Forecast CAGR 5.6% 2028 Value Projection USD 57.11 Billion Market Size in 2021 USD 39.04 Billion Historical Data 2017-2019 No. of Pages 200 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Type

By Application Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa medium-density fiberboard market Growth Drivers Changing Demand from Plywood to MDF to Stimulate Market Growth Collaborations and Boosted Distribution Networks Are Key Tactics of Principal Companies

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/medium-density-fiberboard-market-104027

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Segmentation:

The market for Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) can be categorized into various applications, including furniture, construction & flooring, interior designing, packaging, and other miscellaneous uses. Among these, furniture holds the largest market share currently. MDF's cost-effective attributes have made it a popular alternative to plywood in the furniture manufacturing industry.

In addition to the application, the global MDF market is further segmented by type, with standard, moisture-resistant, and fire-rated being the three main categories. These types offer varying degrees of resistance to moisture and fire, making them suitable for use in different environments and applications.

Geographically, the MDF market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa regions. Each region has its unique market characteristics, with different factors influencing the demand and supply of MDF.

Overall, the global MDF market is experiencing steady growth, thanks to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendly properties. With increasing demand from various applications and regions, it is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

COVID-19 Pandemic Expressively Interrupted Supply Chain of MDF

The global wood industry has been grappling with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many prominent wood-producing countries enforced lockdowns starting in early 2020, leading to significant disruptions in the supply of wood and its byproducts, including wood fibers.

Furthermore, numerous enterprises operating in the international medium-density fiberboard industry have faced various constraints in their production processes, further exacerbating the upheaval in the overall supply chain of this market. These challenges have forced industry players to adopt innovative strategies to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on their operations.

Report Coverage:

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the market, including current trends and projected estimates to determine potential returns on investment. Additionally, the report presents a thorough evaluation of upcoming opportunities, threats, competition, and other navigational aspects. A detailed and methodical review of various regions is also included.

The report has been updated to include the impact of COVID-19, helping stakeholders and business professionals better understand the associated risks. Furthermore, the report identifies key players in the market and outlines their strategies for driving market growth.

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Drivers and Restraints

MDF and plywood share comparable characteristics and are commonly used in the manufacturing of furniture items like tables, beds, sofas, and library shelves. However, MDF is significantly cheaper than plywood and does not have particle grain or lumps in its structure.

Due to these characteristics, MDF proves to be an excellent substitute for plywood in areas where moisture and impact resistance are not the primary requirements. As a result, the market growth of medium-density fiberboard is expected to increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific to Lead Market Due to Increasing Presence of Manufactures

In 2019, the medium-density fiberboard market share in Asia Pacific was at its highest, valued at a staggering USD 22.29 billion. The driving force behind this growth in the Asia Pacific region is none other than China, which currently boasts a dominant market share of around 90% based on volume.

North America, on the other hand, has experienced significant expansion in the previous year, making it a crucial region for manufacturers of this product. The market in North America is predicted to be led by the rising expenditure of individuals on visually appealing decorative accents in their homes and workplaces, which is driving demand for medium-density fiberboard.

Competitive Landscape

To maintain a competitive edge in the market, leading companies rely on a variety of strategic tactics, including product invention and collaboration with suppliers to expand their sales network. One prime example of such a company is Arauco, a prominent corporation known for its cutting-edge wood composite boards produced through an automated manufacturing process.

Innovation and partnership are key ingredients in the recipe for success, and Arauco has mastered both. By continually developing new products and working closely with suppliers, they have been able to establish themselves as sa top player in the industry.

Their progressive wood composite boards, which utilize advanced manufacturing technology, have garnered widespread acclaim for their durability and performance. This innovative approach has allowed Arauco to differentiate itself from competitors and remain at the forefront of the market.

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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 Emerging Trends  For Major Countries Key Developments: Capacity Expansions, Acquisitions, Partnerships, etc. Latest Technological Advancement Insights on Regulatory Scenario Porters Five Forces Analysis

Qualitative Insights on the Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Medium Density Fiberboard Market Supply Chain Analysis & Challenges Due to Covid-19 Steps Taken by Government / Companies to Overcome This Impact Potential Challenges and Opportunities Due to COVID-19 Outbreak

Global Medium Density Fiberboard Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Type (Value and Volume) Standard Moisture Resistant Fire-Rated Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Application (Value and Volume) Furniture Construction & Flooring Interior Designing Packaging Systems Others Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Region (Value and Volume) North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa

North America Medium Density Fiberboard Market Analysis, Insights, and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Type (Value and Volume) Standard Moisture Resistant Fire-Rated Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Application (Value and Volume) Furniture Construction & Flooring Interior Designing Packaging Systems Others Market Size Estimates and Forecast - By Country (Value and Volume) U.S By Type Canada By Type



TOC Continued...!

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Read Related Insights:

[Latest News] Wood Flooring Market to Surpass USD 41,682.2 Million by 2027 | Fortune Business Insights

Flooring Market to Surpass USD 517.74 Billion by 2028 | Surging CAGR of 5.4%

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(Bloomberg) -- Meta Platforms Inc. said it would end news content on Facebook and Instagram in Canada if lawmakers pass legislation to force social-networking platforms to pay media publishers to feature their work.

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Weve taken the difficult decision that if this flawed legislation is passed, we will have to end the availability of news content on Facebook and Instagram in Canada, Nick Clegg, Metas president of global affairs, said in a statement on Monday.

Clegg described Canadas proposed Online News Act as fundamentally flawed, saying Canada would become the first democracy to put a price on free links to web pages, which flies in the face of global norms.

The former UK deputy prime minister had been scheduled to speak about the bill at a committee of Canadas House of Commons on Monday. But he canceled after the title of the session was changed to, Tech Giants Current and Ongoing Use of Intimidation and Subversion Tactics to Evade Regulation in Canada and Across the World.

Canadas act, known as Bill C-18, was proposed to establish a fair revenue sharing system between digital platforms and news outlets and provide for collective bargaining by media in negotiating fees with companies like Meta. In introducing the legislation last year, Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez said he was seeking to address a market imbalance as an increasing number of Canadians turn to digital platforms for news.

Canada is certainly not the first country that Meta has warned on the prospect of pulling its content. The company had said last year that it would remove Facebook and Instagram from Europe altogether over European Union data regulations.

Story continues

(Updates with information about Canadian House of Commons hearing in fourth paragraph)

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Market.Us

The rise of cloud computing usage, digital transformation and emerging technologies has led to an increase in demand for network as a service. This has resulted in new players entering the market and established companies expanding their offerings, resulting in potential shifts in market share.

New York, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The network as a service market size is projected to surpass around USD 115.5 billion by 2032, and it is poised to reach a CAGR of 26.7% from 2023 to 2032. The Global Network as a Service (NaaS) Market refers to the provision of networking resources & services to businesses and organizations on a subscription basis, typically through a cloud-based platform. NaaS providers typically offer flexible, scalable results as well as price-effective network solutions that can be customized to meet the specific needs of individual businesses.

Network as a Service Market

To get additional highlights on major revenue-generating segments, Request a Network as a Service Market sample report at https://market.us/report/network-as-a-service-market/request-sample

Key Takeaway:

By type, the WAN-as-a-service segment generated the largest revenue share of 66% in 2022.

By enterprise size, the large enterprise segment has dominated the market, and it accounted for the most prominent global revenue of 55% in 2022 .

By application, the cloud and SaaS connectivity segment generated the largest revenue share of 24% in 2022.

By industry vertical, the IT and telecom segment was dominant in the market, with the largest market revenue share of 33.1% in 2022.

In 2022, North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 42%.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at a significant CAGR from 2023 to 2032.

Factors Affecting the Growth of the Network as a Service Market

There are several factors that can affect the growth of the Network as a Service Market. Some of these factors include:

Increasing use of mobile devices and IoT technology: With the increasing use of mobile devices and Internet of Things (IoT) technology, there is a growing need for network solutions that can support these devices and provide seamless connectivity.

Increasing globalization and need for network connectivity across different regions: With the increasing globalization of business, there is a growing need for network connectivity across different regions. NaaS providers can offer businesses a global network infrastructure that can support their operations in different regions around the world.

Growing focus on digital transformation and the need for agile network infrastructure: Many businesses are undergoing digital transformation and are looking for network solutions that can support their digital initiatives. NaaS providers can offer businesses an agile network infrastructure that can help them adapt to changing business requirements.

Need for improved network performance and reliability: With the increasing reliance on network infrastructure for business operations, there is a growing need for improved network performance and reliability. NaaS providers can offer businesses network solutions that can help improve performance and ensure reliable connectivity.

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Network automation is becoming increasingly important in NaaS systems since it allows operators to provide more efficient and dependable network services. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are being used by NaaS providers to automate network administration chores. Network analytics is the practice of analyzing network performance and defining opportunities for improvement using data analytics tools & methodologies.

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Market Growth

Some reasons are driving this expansion of the market, including increased acceptance of cloud-based services, the advent of virtualization technologies as well as increased demand for network automation. Apart from these factors driving the growth of the NaaS market include the rising demand for price effective & adaptable network results and expanding uses of mobile devices & IoT technologies.

Regional Analysis

North America will dominate the worldwide network as a service market. The North American market for NaaS solutions is the largest, owing to the widespread use of cloud computing and digital transformation projects. The region boasts a thriving IT infrastructure and a plethora of NaaS providers.

Competitive Landscape

In recent years, the NaaS market is anticipated to expand as a solution to rising cloud computing use, digital transformation, and developing technologies. As the industry develops, with startups joining the market and current firms increasing their offers, the market share of important players is expected to change. For instance, one of the market's biggest participants and providers of a wide range of networking solutions is Cisco Systems, Inc.

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Scope of the Report

Report Attribute Details Market Value (2022) US$ 11.5 Billion Market Size (2032) US$ 115.5 Billion CAGR (from 2023 to 2032) 26.7% North America Revenue Share 42% Historic Period 2016 to 2022 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023 to 2032

Market Drivers

With the growing popularity of cloud computing, an increasing number of businesses are opting to outsource their IT infrastructure and services to third-party suppliers. For organizations who are wishing to shift their networking infrastructure to the cloud, NaaS presents a cost-effective and scalable solution. The advent of remote work has increased the requirement for safe and dependable connectivity among individuals operating from multiple places. NaaS delivers a scalable and adaptable solution that allows organizations to provide safe access to their network resources from anywhere in the globe.

Market Restraints

While NaaS providers provide a variety of security services, many organizations may be apprehensive to entrust their network infrastructure and sensitive data to a third-party supplier. Data privacy and security concerns may limit the expansion of the NaaS business. The majority of NaaS services are meant to be standardized and scalable, which may not fit the specialized demands of some organizations. This may hinder the use of NaaS in sectors that demand customized networking solutions.

Market Opportunities

SMEs frequently lack the means to invest in their networking infrastructure and may find NaaS solutions to be a cost-effective and scalable option. This category is expected to develop dramatically as more NaaS providers provide customized services to SMEs. The advent of 5G networks is projected to stimulate demand for high-speed, low-latency networking services. NaaS providers that can deliver 5G connection and related services are expected to enjoy substantial expansion in the coming years.

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Report Segmentation of the Network as a Service Market

Type Insight

The market is divided into two categories: WAN-as-a-service and LAN-as-a-service. Among them, the WAN-as-a-service category is likely to be the most profitable in the worldwide network as a service, with the biggest revenue share of 66% and a projected CAGR of 33.6% over the forecast period. Customers have access to a wide area network (WAN) that covers various locations or regions because of the kind of NaaS service. Large organizations frequently employ WAN-as-a-service solutions to connect their offices or data centers in multiple geographical areas.

Enterprise Size Insight

The market is segmented into major enterprises and SMEs based on enterprise size. With a market share of 55% and a CAGR of 31.3% during the projected period, the large enterprise sector dominates the enterprise size category in the network as a service. Businesses in the high Enterprise category have a high number of workers and a large IT infrastructure, generally with several sites and complicated networking requirements. Large organizations frequently require sophisticated NaaS solutions, such as WAN-as-a-service, to connect their disparate sites and ensure secure and dependable network access.

Application Insight

The market is segmented into multiple applications, including WAN optimization, bandwidth on consumer demand, cloud, and SaaS connection, network access control, virtual private network, secure web gateway, UCaaS/video conferencing, and others. The cloud and SaaS connectivity category leads the market with a 24% revenue share and is predicted to increase at a CAGR of 33.6% during the forecast period. Because of cloud and SaaS connectivity, the application uses NaaS solutions to enable safe and dependable communication between enterprises and cloud-based services like Software as a Service app.

Industry Vertical Insight

The market is segmented into major enterprises and SMEs based on enterprise size. With a market share of 55% and a CAGR of 31.3%, the big enterprise sector dominates the enterprise size category in the network as a service. Businesses in the high Enterprise category have a high number of workers and a large IT infrastructure, generally with several sites and complicated networking requirements. Large organizations frequently require sophisticated NaaS solutions, such as WAN-as-a-service, to connect their disparate sites and ensure secure and dependable network access.

For more insights on the historical and Forecast market data from 2016 to 2032  download a sample report at https://market.us/report/network-as-a-service-market/request-sample

Market Segmentation

By Type

WAN-as-a-service

LAN-as-a-service

By Enterprise Size

Large Enterprise

SMEs

By Application

WAN Optimization

Bandwidth on Demand

Cloud and SaaS Connectivity

Network Access Control

Virtual Private Network

Secure Web Gateway

UCaaS/Video Conferencing

Other Applications

By Industry Vertical

BFSI

Healthcare

Manufacturing

Retail and E-commerce

Government and Public Sector

IT and Telecom

Other Industry Verticals

By Geography

North America The US Canada Mexico

Western Europe Germany France The UK Spain Italy Portugal Ireland Austria Switzerland Benelux Nordic Rest of Western Europe

Eastern Europe Russia Poland The Czech Republic Greece Rest of Eastern Europe

APAC China Japan South Korea India Australia & New Zealand Indonesia Malaysia Philippines Singapore Thailand Vietnam Rest of APAC

Latin America Brazil Colombia Chile Argentina Costa Rica Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa Algeria Egypt Israel Kuwait Nigeria Saudi Arabia South Africa Turkey United Arab Emirates Rest of MEA



Key Market Players

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.

Amdocs

Megaport

Akamai Technologies

Cisco Systems Inc.

Cloudflare Inc.

AT&T Inc.

Verizon Communications Inc.

DXC Technology Company

Synnex Corporation

NEC Corporation

IBM Corporation

Palo Alto

Other Key Players

Recent Development of the Network as a Service Market

In January 2022 , Cisco Systems announced the acquisition of Syntropy Technologies, a provider of AI-powered content moderation solutions. The acquisition is expected to help Cisco enhance its security and privacy capabilities for its NaaS offerings.

In November 2021, IBM Corporation announced the launch of IBM Cloud for Telecommunications, a new platform that offers NaaS solutions specifically designed for the telecommunications industry.

Browse More Related Reports:

Energy as service Market value was USD 62,357 million in 2021. This market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2023-2032.

Device-as-a-service market was worth USD 42,273.40 Million in 2021. It is anticipated to grow at a compound annual rate (CAGR of 37.2% ) between 2023-2032.



Analytics as a services Market was valued at USD 7,893.10 Million in 2021. It is projected to grow at a compound annual rate (CAGR of 25.45%) between 2023 and 2032.



Network Probe Market size was estimated at USD 453.6 Million. The market growth rate is expected at 11.1% during the forecast.

Video Conferencing Systems Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly 8.1% over the next ten years and will reach USD 21 Bn in 2032, from USD 11.1 Bn in 2022.

Managed services market accounted for USD 278.9 Bn. Between 2023 and 2032, this market is estimated to register the highest CAGR of 11.9%

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Market.US (Powered by Prudour Pvt Ltd) specializes in in-depth market research and analysis and has been proving its mettle as a consulting and customized market research company, apart from being a much sought-after syndicated market research report-providing firm. Market.US provides customization to suit any specific or unique requirement and tailor-makes reports as per request. We go beyond boundaries to take analytics, analysis, study, and outlook to newer heights and broader horizons.

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NORBIT ASA





Trondheim, Norway, 8 May 2023: NORBIT, a global provider of tailored technology to carefully selected applications, will announce its results for the first quarter of 2023 on Tuesday 16 May 2023.

The interim report and the presentation material will be available from 07:00 am CEST at the company's homepage, www.norbit.com and Oslo Stock Exchange's news site, www.newsweb.no.

A presentation of the results will be held by CEO Per Jrgen Weisethaunet and CFO Per Kristian Reppe at 10:00 CEST. The presentation will be hosted by Arctic Securities via a live webcast.

Please use the following link to view the webcast: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MWUyYjBkMTQtOTY5ZS00NGIwLWFjNTktZjI4YTQ1YmIyMTgz%40thread.v2/0?context=%7B%22Tid%22%3A%22d02701f9-3b23-4b3f-8fce-29ed54632bf8%22%2C%22Oid%22%3A%2272ea5c6c-fd70-4d89-875b-5e262b94f033%22%2C%22IsBroadcastMeeting%22%3Atrue%2C%22role%22%3A%22a%22%7D&btype=a&role=a

For further queries, please contact:

Per Kristian Reppe, CFO, +47 900 33 203

About NORBIT ASA

NORBIT is a global provider of tailored technology to selected applications, solving challenges and promoting sustainability through innovative solutions, in line with its mission to Explore More. The company is structured in three business segments to address its key markets: Oceans, Connectivity and Product Innovation & Realization. The Oceans segment delivers tailored technology solutions to global maritime markets. The Connectivity segment provides wireless solutions for identification, monitoring and tracking. The Product Innovation & Realization segment offers R&D services, proprietary products, and contract manufacturing to key customers. NORBIT is headquartered in Trondheim with manufacturing in Europe, has around 450 employees, and a worldwide sales and distribution platform.

For more information: www.norbit.com

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements in the Norwegian Securities Trading Act  5-12.




Arab League forms ministerial committee to address Sudan crisis

Xinhua) 08:17, May 08, 2023

CAIRO, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Arab League Council issued a resolution on Sunday to form an Arab ministerial contact group to communicate with the Sudanese parties and influential countries, aiming to reach a settlement of the crisis in Sudan.

The resolution, made during the Council's emergency meeting in the Egyptian capital Cairo, is meant to intensify Arab efforts to find a peaceful solution to the current conflict in Sudan between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that erupted in mid-April.

Under the resolution, the contact group would include representatives from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the Arab League, according to an Arab League statement.

The contact group will hold communication with the Sudanese parties, influential countries regionally and internationally as well as relevant international organizations, according to the statement.

The committee aims to reach a complete and sustainable ceasefire in Sudan and address the causes of the crisis.

It will further coordinate with international relief organizations to provide urgent humanitarian and medical support to citizens and displaced persons inside Sudan.

The group will also work to help those taking refuge in neighboring countries.

The Council also stressed the need to fully respect Sudan's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and not to interfere in its internal affairs to avoid fueling conflict and threatening regional peace and security.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Sabic Agri-Nutrients Company (Sabic AN), a public joint-stock company owned 50.1% by Sabic, has sent 5,000 metric tonnes (mt) of Commercial Low Carbon Ammonia to Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO).

The shipment dispatched from Jubail, Saudi Arabia, makes Sabic Agri-Nutrients the first company to introduce Low Carbon Ammonia to the Indian fertiliser sector.

IFFCO, which will receive the shipment, becomes the first Indian company to use low carbon Ammonia for fertiliser production in line with Indias vision to be net-zero by 2070.

Carbon neutral

Sabic Agri-Nutrients made a public commitment not only to become carbon neutral by 2050 but also to collaborate with customers in helping them achieve their net-zero emission targets. With low-carbon ammonia, customers in India can move toward realising their carbon-neutrality commitments. Sabics shipment to India is a significant milestone and an example of our commitment to developing low-carbon solutions for the world, said Abdulrahman Shamsaddin, CEO, Sabic AN.

In 2020, Sabic joined Aramco and the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ) to ship low carbon Ammonia to Japan.

In 2022, Sabic AN and Aramco obtained the worlds first independent certification of Low-Carbon ammonia and clean hydrogen production from TUV Rheinland, a leading independent testing, inspection and certification agency based in Germany.

In addition, Sabic AN and Aramco sent the worlds first commercial shipment of 25 thousand metric tonnes of independently certified Low Carbon Ammonia to South Korea last December.-- TradeArabia News Service
TORONTO, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ -To provide elected officials with a glimpse into the day-in-the-life of a nurse and to highlight opportunities to better support the profession and Ontario's health system, the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is launching its annual Take Your MPP To Work (TYMTW) event during Nursing Week (May 8  14, 2023). This is the first time since 2019 visits will be held in person.

RNAO Logo (CNW Group/Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario)

TYMTW allows registered nurses and nurse practitioners, working in all roles and sectors to engage directly with elected officials  federal, provincial and municipal  about their practice and share how policy decisions affect their work and the day-to-day care they provide.

"In-person visits are invaluable; we're thrilled we can resume after being virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic," says RNAO President Dr. Claudette Holloway. "It's one thing for nurses to speak to elected officials about their experiences in various health settings but it's another for politicians to visit with nurses in their workplaces to see for themselves the vital role of nursing in Ontario's health system and understand what changes are needed to support the profession, and in turn, people's health."

In March, RNAO released its Nursing Career Pathways report to highlight the many education and career opportunities nursing offers as well as the barriers that stand in the way of a thriving profession. During visits, nurses will share their own career experiences so elected officials can gain a better understanding of the richness of the nursing profession and the central role nurses occupy in the delivery of health services.

"Politicians at all levels of government engage in health care, and it's paramount that they see our health system in action and learn about the opportunities to support nursing so nurses can build rich and vibrant careers in Ontario, rather than leaving for greener pastures," says RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun. "We look forward to our members engaging with politicians and reinforcing what is needed to allow them to thrive and deliver excellence in care now and for years to come, to the benefit of all Ontarians."

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TYMTW visits begin during Nursing Week 2023 and continue into the summer months. Media interested in attending local events are encouraged to contact us to help coordinate. For more information, visit RNAO's website.

The Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses, nurse practitioners and nursing students in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has advocated for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses' contribution to shaping the health system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public we serve. For more information about RNAO, visit RNAO.ca or follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

SOURCE Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/May2023/08/c9888.html
(Bloomberg) -- Oil rose with a technical correction to the upside after last weeks slide, aided by supply disruptions in Canada and positive fuel demand indications.

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West Texas Intermediate rose as much as 3% on Monday to close above $73 a barrel amid various supportive factors. Several oil producers in Alberta have shut in almost 150,000 barrels a day because of wildfires, while in the US better-than-expected employment data on Friday eased concerns of an economic slowdown.

The jobs numbers are certainly helping, said Paul Horsnell, head of commodities research at Standard Chartered Bank. But occasionally, the answer to why the price has gone up is the simple one: that it was too low.

Oil has dropped by about 10% this year as the Federal Reserves most aggressive tightening campaign in a generation sparks recessionary fears. Market participants have become more bearish, with money managers boosting bets that Brent prices will fall by the most since last March.

But a spate of speculative short selling cant really be justified by either macro-economic data or oil fundamentals, so the market was due a correction, Horsnell added. Physical demand signals also suggest the weakness in prices was overdone. The amount of crude held around the world on stationary tankers dropped to the lowest since mid-February, Vortexa data show.

The rebound in diesel and gasoline also helped propel oil prices higher said Rebecca Babin, a senior energy trader at CIBC Private Wealth. Both fuels outperformed crude, while refining margins have started to rebound from recent lows.

Energy Daily, Bloombergs daily energy and commodities newsletter, is now available. Sign up here.

Story continues

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Olaplex Holdings, Inc.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Olaplex Holdings, Inc. (OLAPLEX), today announced their participation in the Goldman Sachs Global Staples Forum in New York, NY.



JuE Wong, Chief Executive Officer, and Eric Tiziani, Chief Financial Officer, will present on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 3:15pm ET. The Companys management team will meet with investors during the conference. The audio portion of the presentation will be available on the Companys Investor Relations website, https://ir.olaplex.com/, and will remain there for 90 days following the event.

About OLAPLEX

OLAPLEX is an innovative, science-enabled, technology-driven beauty company with a mission to improve the hair health of its consumers. In 2014, OLAPLEX disrupted and revolutionized the prestige haircare category by creating innovative bond-building technology, which works by protecting, strengthening and relinking broken bonds in the hair during and after hair services. The brands proprietary, patent-protected ingredient works on a molecular level to protect and repair damaged hair. OLAPLEXs award-winning products are sold through an expanding omnichannel model serving the professional, specialty retail, and direct-to-consumer channels.

Contacts

Investors:

Patrick Flaherty

Vice President, Investor Relations

patrick.flaherty@olaplex.com

Financial Media:

ICR

OLAPLEX@icrinc.com




This is the first surgical project for the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital in three years

NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Monday, May 8th, Orbis International, with generous support from FedEx, will launch its first surgical program since 2020 on board the Flying Eye Hospital  a fully accredited ophthalmic teaching hospital on board a plane. For three weeks, Orbis's clinical staff and Volunteer Faculty (medical experts) will provide in-person, hands-on training to 52 eye care professionals, including ophthalmologists, nurses, biomedical engineers, and anesthesiologists, from the Can Tho region, building their skills to treat the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment in their own communities.

A child is prepped for surgery on the Flying Eye Hospital in Danang, Vietnam in 2010.

This marks the 12th time the Flying Eye Hospital has held a training project in Vietnam, including one virtual project on Cybersight, Orbis's telemedicine platform. During this project, participants will develop their skills through a combination of simulation and hands-on training, as well as customized virtual learning courses before the plane arrives in Vietnam. Training activities will take place on the Flying Eye Hospital, currently located at the Can Tho International Airport, and at two partner hospitals, Can Tho Maxillo Dental and Eye Hospital and Can Tho Children Hospital.

The first week of the project will be dedicated to simulation training, which allows participants to grow their confidence in a training environment before moving on to surgeries, resulting in better care for patients. The last two weeks of the project will focus on surgical training, where participants will get hands-on, real-life experience with world-class professionals at their sides.

Surgical training will focus on treating the leading causes of blindness and vision impairment for children and adults in Vietnam. Participants will train in pediatric cataracts, oculoplastics, and strabismus as well as adult glaucoma, oculoplastics, and medical retina. This project will complement Orbis's ongoing programs throughout the country and further Orbis Vietnam's ultimate goal: to fill the gaps and address the needs of local health personnel and contribute to the National Blindness Prevention Strategy, which was approved by the Prime Minister in 2016.

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"We are so grateful to FedEx for not only sponsoring this program in Vietnam but also standing side by side with us for more than 30 years in the fight against avoidable vision loss around the world," said Ngoc Pham, Country Director of Orbis Vietnam. "FedEx has played an indispensable role in helping Orbis carry out our mission, including donating the current MD-10 aircraft that serves as the third-generation Flying Eye Hospital."

FedEx has supported Orbis in its mission for over three decades and through more than US$22 million in donations and in-kind shipping. In 2021, FedEx announced its renewed commitment to Orbis's sight-saving mission with a US$3.5 million donation to help provide financial, logistical, and operational support to the organization and its Flying Eye Hospital over the following five years. In addition to providing aircraft parts, maintenance, and pilot training, the FedEx-donated MD-10 is flown by FedEx pilots who volunteer their time to navigate the plane around the world to Orbis projects. The sponsorship of this project in Vietnam is part of the FedEx Cares 50 by 50 campaign to positively impact 50 million people around the world by the company's 50th birthday this year.

"FedEx is proud to play a role in the global fight against avoidable blindness. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary this year, FedEx has been positively impacting lives and creating a Better World through connecting people to more possibilities. We are committed to using our resources and our network to help address the social and economic needs of those in need in our local communities." said Ee-Hui Tan, Managing Director, FedEx Express Vietnam and Cambodia.

Orbis is grateful for its partnership with Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) and Can Tho International Airport for their support. ACV has generously provided a secure location for the Flying Eye Hospital for the duration of the three-week project, a critical component to safely treat patients and train eye care teams.

Orbis in Vietnam

Orbis Vietnam is also marking a significant milestone this year  the 20th anniversary of the Orbis office in Hanoi. In fact, Orbis started collaborating with the eye health sector in Vietnam in 1996 by providing hospital-based trainings at the Vietnam National Institute of Ophthalmology. Since then, Orbis Vietnam and its partners have worked to increase the quality of care available by improving training and strengthening human resources, especially outside of urban settings. In addition to hosting now 12 Flying Eye Hospital projects, Orbis Vietnam has helped establish screening and treatment centers for retinopathy of prematurity and other pediatric eye care, hospitals, vision centers, a wet lab, and an eye bank. In addition, the Orbis Vietnam team has contributed to developing national-level eye care policies, guidelines, and protocols, as well as collaborated with neonatal intensive care units to improve eye care for babies born prematurely.

Orbis Vietnam has provided eye screenings and examinations to nearly 5.3 million people, medical and optical treatment for over one million people, surgical treatment for nearly 140,000 people, and trained almost 33,000 eye health professionals.

The eye care community in Vietnam has fully embraced Cybersight and has accessed more virtual courses than any other country.

Orbis Vietnam continues to improve access to eye care across the country and will continue to focus on expanding quality pediatric eye care services, strengthening human resources for eye health and increasing the availability of community-led primary eye care services.

About Orbis

Orbis is a leading global non-governmental organization that has been a pioneer in the prevention and treatment of avoidable blindness for over four decades. Orbis transforms lives by delivering the skills, resources and knowledge needed to deliver accessible, quality eye care. Working in collaboration with local partners, including hospitals, universities, government agencies and ministries of health, Orbis provides hands-on ophthalmology training, strengthens healthcare infrastructure and advocates for the prioritization of eye health on public health agendas. Orbis operates the world's only Flying Eye Hospital, a fully accredited ophthalmic teaching hospital on board an MD-10 aircraft, and an award-winning telemedicine platform, Cybersight. To learn more, please visit orbis.org .

About FedEx Express

FedEx Express is one of the world's largest express transportation companies, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. FedEx Express uses a global air-and-ground network to speed delivery of time-sensitive shipments, by a definite time and date.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Orbis International

Jenna Montgomery

Manager, Global Communications and Marketing

Jenna.montgomery@orbis.org

Orbis Vietnam

Nhung Nguyen

Program and Communications Officer

Nhung.nguyen@orbis.org

FedEx

Elaine Mo

Communications Specialist

elaine.mo@fedex.com

Cision

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SOURCE Orbis International
FILE PHOTO: Logo of U.S. software company Palantir Technologies is seen in Davos

By Chavi Mehta

(Reuters) -Palantir Technologies said on Monday it expects to turn a profit every quarter in 2023, betting on interest "unlike anything we have seen" in its new artificial intelligence platform, sending its shares up about 20% in extended trading.

The new generative AI platform was launched two weeks ago and works on the same technology that's behind ChatGPT.

The data analytics software maker, known for its work with the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, also beat first-quarter revenue and profit expectations on bigger projects from existing commercial and government clients.

"Investors will be pleased not only with the better-than-expected results for the quarter, but also the guidance for profitability as well as the recent AI initiatives," said D.A. Davidson & Co analyst Gil Luria.

The first iteration of the AI platform will be made available to some customers this month, Palantir CEO Alexander Karp said, adding the new offering can assist militaries in targeting enemies.

The customers include "one of the largest insurance companies in the world" and supply chain and security customers, Chief Revenue Officer Ryan Taylor told Reuters.

Palantir's first-quarter revenue rose 18% to $525.2 million and adjusted profit stood at 5 cents per share, both above estimates.

The strong first quarter was driven by a 26% rise in commercial revenue, rising more than expected, said RBC Capital Markets analyst Rishi Jaluria.

Palantir continues to tighten its cloud spending and is investing in focus areas like AI, said finance chief David Glazer. In February, it said it would cut 2% of its workforce.

It remains bullish on demand for its offerings in the United States, but faced challenges in "certain areas" internationally, Taylor said, without elaborating.

The company forecast second-quarter revenue of $528 million and $532 million, below estimates of $536.2 million, per Refinitiv data. Its full-year revenue forecast, however, was largely in line with estimates.

(Reporting by Chavi Mehta in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli)
(Bloomberg) -- Palantir Technologies Inc. rallied as much as 21% in premarket trading Tuesday after giving a strong earnings forecast and saying that demand for its new artificial intelligence tool due this month is without precedent.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The company posted a surprise profit in the first quarter and expects to stay in the black for the rest of 2023, which would be its first profitable year. But much of Palantirs focus Monday was on AI. During a video call with analysts, Chief Executive Officer Alex Karp said the data analysis company is running hard at AI technology, and that its strategy is to just take the whole market.

Palantir works with governments and corporations with sensitive networks, offering services to analyze information like criminal databases, DMV records or phone data to aid with decision making. Every one of those clients needs an AI strategy, Karp said. We have unique software for that.

On Monday, the company said it expected adjusted income from operations to be between $506 million and $556 million in 2023. Analysts had projected $496.5 million.

The company reported that revenue for the first quarter was $525 million, up 18% from last year. Analysts had expected $506 million.

In a letter to shareholders, Karp stressed the importance of the companys moves into AI. We have already had hundreds of conversations with potential partners about deploying the software and are currently negotiating terms and pricing for access to the platform, Karp wrote.

But details of the plan are still being hammered out. On Mondays call with analysts, he said, We have no pricing strategy. Were going to create a lot of value. Were going to get hundreds of customers and were going to price it as we go.

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The CEO also warned that the risks presented by the latest and most advanced forms of generative AI are real, and said that Palantir designed its systems with privacy and human safety at the forefront.

The machine must remain subordinate to its creator, Karp wrote in the shareholder letter.

Denver-based Palantir is known as much for its outspoken billionaire co-founder Peter Thiel as for its technology powering defense, health and other operations for the US and allied countries. Palantirs software also aggregates and analyzes data for companies including Airbus SE and Merck & Co.

The companys AI push leverages much of its previous work, and comes relatively late compared with some technology giants. The sector has become wildly popular over the past year, with major tech players promoting new offerings alongside startups bankrolled with billions of venture dollars.

With Palantirs tools, a military customer could theoretically ask the AI system about opposing forces, ask it to analyze information about those forces, and prompt it for suggestions about ways to target the opponent. Those options might range from jamming communications to launching missiles, according to a video demonstrating the platform. Palantir also offers AI computing at the edge, meaning its able to embed autonomous decision making on drones, aircrafts, ships, satellites and other endpoints.

The first version of Palantirs AI platform will be made available only to select customers this month, Karp said in the letter.

The company reported earnings per share of 1 cent in the first quarter. Analysts had expected a 1 cent loss for the period.

Palantirs revenue from its government business grew in the quarter. The revenue it took in from the US and other allies hit $289 million, about a 20% increase. Thats above analysts estimates of $285.6 million.

Palantir recently won deals with the US State Department to modernize data management for medical services and with the Australian government to investigate financial crimes. The company will also assist Ukraines prosecutor general with the investigation of alleged Russian war crimes.

The companys commercial business, which it has worked to expand in recent years, hit $236 million in revenue for the quarter. Thats about a 15% increase from the same period a year ago, exceeding analyst estimates of $219.8 million.

(Updates with premarket shares.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
As an investor, mistakes are inevitable. But you have a problem if you face massive losses more than once in a while. So spare a thought for the long term shareholders of Magellan Financial Group Limited (ASX:MFG); the share price is down a whopping 85% in the last three years. That would certainly shake our confidence in the decision to own the stock. And the ride hasn't got any smoother in recent times over the last year, with the price 47% lower in that time. Furthermore, it's down 13% in about a quarter. That's not much fun for holders. While a drop like that is definitely a body blow, money isn't as important as health and happiness.

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 Magellan Financial Group

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time.

During the three years that the share price fell, Magellan Financial Group's earnings per share (EPS) dropped by 19% each year. This reduction in EPS is slower than the 46% annual reduction in the share price. So it seems the market was too confident about the business, in the past. This increased caution is also evident in the rather low P/E ratio, which is sitting at 7.03.

The company's earnings per share (over time) is depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers).

This free interactive report on Magellan Financial Group's earnings, revenue and cash flow is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further.

What About Dividends?

When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. As it happens, Magellan Financial Group's TSR for the last 3 years was -81%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!

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A Different Perspective

While the broader market gained around 4.2% in the last year, Magellan Financial Group shareholders lost 42% (even including dividends). Even the share prices of good stocks drop sometimes, but we want to see improvements in the fundamental metrics of a business, before getting too interested. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 9% 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. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Magellan Financial Group better, we need to consider many other factors. For instance, we've identified 3 warning signs for Magellan Financial Group (1 is a bit concerning) that you should be aware of.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies we expect will grow earnings.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Australian 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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DAEJEON, South Korea, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PharmAbcine Inc. (KOSDAQ: 208340ks), a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on the development of fully human antibody therapeutics, announced today that the company will participate in the upcoming BIO International Convention 2023.

PharmAbcineLogo (PRNewsfoto/PharmAbcine)

Details of the events are as follows:

Event: Event: BIO International Convention

Date: June 5-8, 2023

Registration: https://www.bio.org/events/bio-international-convention/registration-information

PharmAbcine will participate in BIO International Convention to introduce the Company's core technology and pipeline assets to discuss potential out-licensing and co-development opportunities with global pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

The Company's pipeline assets include olinvacimab, PMC-403, PMC-309, and PMC-005.

Olinvacimab, an anti-VEGFR2 antibody, is currently undergoing phase II clinical trial for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) patients. The study combines olinvacimab with Keytruda (pembrolizumab), an anti-PD-1 antibody developed by Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp (MSD). The decision to move forward with the phase II trial was based on the promising results from the phase Ib combination study, which demonstrated a 50% Overall Response Rate (ORR), 67% Disease Control Rate (DCR), and no serious adverse events. The ongoing phase II study is actively recruiting patients at multiple clinical sites in Australia.

PMC-403, a first-in-class anti-TIE2 agonistic antibody, has promising therapeutic potential in ophthalmology, oncology, and rare disease areas. PMC-403 has a novel mechanism of action in which activation of TIE2 receptors normalizes leaky pathological blood vessels. In preclinical studies, PMC-403 demonstrated similar efficacy in reducing retinal leakage compared to Eylea (aflibercept), the leading drug in the ophthalmology market. This unique mechanism opens possibilities for treating patients who have limited or no response to existing therapies. PharmAbcine has submitted an IND in Korea for a phase I study in wAMD patients. The IND approval is expected within the second quarter of 2023.

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PMC-309, a first-in-class anti-VISTA antagonistic antibody, is an immuno-oncology asset. VISTA is an immune checkpoint expressed primarily on myeloid cells, involved in suppressing T-cell activation. Blocking VISTA by PMC-309 can activate the suppressed T-cells, thus changing the immuno-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) into an immuno-supportive TME. In preclinical studies, PMC-309 in combination with anti-PD1 antibody showed synergistic anti-tumor effects in mouse tumor models. PMC-309 can be developed to treat cancer patients who develop resistance to currently available IO drugs, including anti-PD1/PD-L1 and anti-CTLA4. IND submission for Phase 1 study in Australia will be submitted within the second quarter of 2023.

PMC-005 is a fully human monoclonal antibody that selectively recognizes EGFRvIII, a tumor-specific antigen. EGFRvIII is expressed in various solid tumors including glioblastoma, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, liver cancer and ovarian cancer. PMC-005 can be applicable with various modalities including ADC, CAR-T/NK, RadioImmunoTherapy, molecular imaging for EGFRvIII tumor detection as a companion diagnostic or theranostic. Under collaboration with CAR-T platform companies, PMC-005-CAR-T demonstrated eradication of EGFRvIII overexpressing tumors in animal model systems.

About PharmAbcine Inc.

PharmAbcine is a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on the development of fully human antibody therapeutics to treat neovascular disorders, tumors, and other medically unmet diseases. It provides therapeutic antibodies for a wide spectrum of indications from oncology, immuno-oncology, ophthalmology, to respiratory.

PharmAbcine has its own HuPhage library and innovative selection system. PharmAbcine's advanced 3G expression system accommodates high levels of antibody production and steady reproducibility. With these cutting-edge technology platforms, it provides state of the art antibody generation services.

For additional information about PharmAbcine, visit http://www.pharmabcine.com.

For licensing deals, co-development, and collaboration in research or antibody discovery inquiries, please contact:

Business Development Team

E-mail: bd@pharmabcine.com

Office line: +82 70 4279 5100

Cision

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SOURCE PharmAbcine
Market Research Future

Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Trends and Insights By Service (Retail pharmacy services, Specialty pharmacy services, Benefit plan design & consultation, and Others), By End User (Healthcare Providers and Employers), And By Region (Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World), Competitive Market Growth, Size, Share and Forecast to 2030

New York, USA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Overview

According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Information By Service, End User, And Region - Forecast till 2030", Market Size was valued at USD 450.2 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 475.23 Billion in 2023 to USD 657.5 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.56% during the forecast period (2023 - 2030).

Market Scope

Insurance companies, pharmacies, and drug manufacturers work with pharmacy benefit management companies. Third-party administrator pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) performs their duties. Pharmacy Benefit Management is a group of prescription drug plans that manages, oversees, and handles all healthcare matters and offers employers drug benefit plans. Additionally, it assists in lowering the cost of providing healthcare and prescription medications to employers. The cost reduction is accomplished by working with self-insured businesses and government programs, as well as by negotiating rebates with pharmaceutical manufacturers, signing agreements with drugstores, and processing, and paying prescription medication claims. The list of prescription medications published by pharmacy benefit management includes all medications covered by its benefit plans, and manufacturers are available to provide discounts.

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They bargain with drug producers and retail pharmacies to control the cost of branded and generic medications. The demand for prescription drug cost management is rising due to increasing chronic illnesses and rising healthcare costs in developed and developing nations. As a result, the demand for these kinds of services increases on the global market. The increasing use of pharmacy benefit management solutions by insurance companies, retail pharmacy chains, and pharmaceutical companies is causing the service providers' preferences to change from traditional workflow to advanced machine learning workflow. As a result, businesses can quickly fulfill mail orders, offer a streamlined supply chain, and service numerous coverage and retail pharmacy chains.

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Report Scope:

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2030 USD 657.5 Billion CAGR 5.56% Base Year 2022 Forecast Period 2023-2030 Historical Data 2021 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Services and End User Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW) Key Market Drivers Increasing global pharmaceutical expenses to drive market growth Rising need to reduce medication errors and rapid broader implications of pharmacies

Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Competitive Landscape:

The prolific contenders in the pharmacy benefit management services market are:

Humana Pharmacy Solutions

Magellan Rx Management

McKesson Corporation

Medimpact Healthcare

MeridianRx

Abarca Health LLC

CVS Health

Express Scripts

OptumRx (UnitedHealth)

Prime Therapeutics

Sea Rainbow

Vidalink

Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Trends:



Market Drivers:

The need to reduce medication errors, the rapid regionalization of pharmacies, the rise in the population of elderly people, and an increase in labor costs are just a few of the factors driving the expected significant growth of the pharmaceutical benefit management market during the forecast period. However, resistance to pharmacy technology and strict regulatory requirements regarding client confidentiality restrain the market's expansion. On the other hand, it is anticipated that during the forecast period, increased awareness between pharmacists and healthcare providers of the cost-saving strategies and services offered by the Pharmacy Benefit Manager will present lucrative opportunities for market expansion. Recent drug price increases have also impacted healthcare spending, prompting health insurance companies to use these services more frequently.

Due to the rising incidence of chronic diseases and rising drug prices, the pharmacy benefit management market has been growing rapidly. The need for treatment options is rising as chronic diseases become more common among the world's population. Big drug manufacturers have focused their efforts on creating expensive branded drugs to treat chronic diseases as a result. As a result, pharmaceutical spending has significantly increased over the past few years. As a result, a sizable number of insurance companies rely on service suppliers to bargain with retail pharmacy components over the price of the drugs and lower the cost of the medications covered by the insurance. The growing use of these services resulted from expanding initiatives, such as expanding mail order delivery options and bolstering distribution networks in outlying areas.

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (85 Pages) on Pharmacy Benefit Management Services: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/pharmacy-benefit-management-services-market-7845

Market Restraints:

The pharmacy benefit management market is expanding due to rising drug spending and prescription filling rates around the world. However, concerns about business model transparency have always existed in pharmacy benefit management services. Rarely do insurance companies, retail pharmacy chains, or pharmaceutical companies receive information about funding sources for these services. As a result, the service providers bear a sizable portion of the cost of the drugs.

COVID 19 Analysis

A higher-than-anticipated demand was observed across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels during the unprecedented and staggering global COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic positively impacted the market for pharmacy benefit management. The revenue of major market players, however, got back to the pre-pandemic level due to the conclusion of vaccination drives in most countries and the availability of an extensive selection of medications at a lower price. Additionally, the demand for price control of prescription and over-the-counter drugs increased due to rising healthcare costs brought on by the global introduction of expensive specialized medicines and COVID-19 vaccines. Therefore, the major players' initiatives and the rising demand for specialty medications contributed to the pharmacy benefit management market's expansion during COVID-19.

Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Segmentation

By end user, the market includes healthcare providers and employers. By service, the market includes retail pharmacy services, specialty pharmacy services, and benefit plan design & consultation.

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Pharmacy Benefit Management Services Market Regional Insights

North America will dominate the pharmacy benefit management market throughout the forecast period. The rise in pharmacy benefit management adoption, medication mistakes, and healthcare costs are the main factors influencing the market's expansion. Leading insurance providers, pharmaceutical benefit management companies, and retail pharmacy chains are all based in the United States. Market expansion has been made possible by the US population's rising adoption of health insurance.

In the US, chronic diseases are more common than 50% of the time. Due to increasing insurance policy acceptance and high healthcare costs, the market for pharmacy benefit management is growing in North America. The number of health insurance providers in the area has significantly increased, which has fueled the expansion of the North American pharmacy benefit management market. Therefore, rising medication error rates are anticipated to increase the need for pharmacy dose management services, fueling market expansion.

Discover more research Reports on Healthcare Industry by Market Research Future:

Pharmacy Management System Market Research Report Information by Solution Type (Pharmacy Inventory Management System, Pharmacy Data Management System, Pharmacy Compounding Software System, Pharmacy Benefits Management System, Pharmacy Revenue Cycle Management System, and Others), Component (Software, Hardware, and Services), Deployment Mode (Web-Based and On-Premise), End User (Inpatient Pharmacies and Outpatient Pharmacies), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World) - Forecast Till 2030.

ePharmacy Market Research Report: Information By Drug Type (Prescription Drugs, and Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs), By Operating Platform (App and Website), By Business Model (Pharmacy and Direct), And By Region (Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, And Rest Of The World)  Market Forecast Till 2030

Pharmacy Automation Market Information By Product Type (Automated Medication Dispensing Systems, Automated Packaging, Labeling Systems, Automated Table-top Counters, Automated Storage, and Retrieval Systems) By End User (Inpatient Pharmacies, Outpatient Pharmacies, and Retail Pharmacies) and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)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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The "Global Predictive Analytics Market Size By Deployment Mode (Cloud-based, On-premises), By Component (Solutions, Services), By Vertical (Healthcare, Government and Defense, IT and Telecom), By Organization Size (Large Enterprises, Small and Medium Organizations), By Geographic Scope & Forecast, 2023-2030" report has been published by Verified Market Research. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the global Predictive Analytics Market, including its growth prospects, market trends, and market challenges

JERSEY CITY, N.J. , May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Predictive Analytics Market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.9% from 2023 to 2030, according to a new report published by Verified Market Research. The report reveals that the market was valued at USD 10.43 Billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 34.52 Billion by the end of the forecast period.

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Browse in-depth TOC on "Predictive Analytics Market"

202 - Pages

126  Tables

37  Figures

Global Predictive Analytics Market to Witness Rapid Growth Driven by Increasing Adoption of Machine Learning and Statistical Analysis Techniques

The global predictive analytics market is expected to experience rapid growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing use of historical and forecast data in the analysis of business operations. Predictive analytics involves the use of machine learning and statistical analysis techniques to generate quantitative information regarding the possibility of any event occurring.

Predictive analytics software makes use of available variables for analysis, allowing companies to develop products based on customer forecasting. This has become a preferred method of gaining a competitive advantage, particularly in the e-commerce industry, where customer experience plays a crucial role in driving sales.

Social media advertising and analysis of customer expectations have also greatly assisted companies in increasing their overall sales. As the number of people using connected devices continues to increase, retailers can now actively understand the shopping behavior of their customers. As a result, predictive analytics is seeing increased use in areas such as operations and supply chain management, sales, and marketing management.

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Predictive analytics is also seeing rapid adoption for workforce management and risk management, thanks to the benefits provided by this technology in business operations. With the increasing use of the internet globally, companies are constantly generating large amounts of data, which has greatly helped in increasing the demand for predictive analytics.

Some of the key players operating in the global predictive analytics market include Oracle Corporation, IBM Corporation, SAS Institute Inc., NTT Data Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, SAP SE, Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO), Angoss Software Corporation, Rapidminer Inc., Tableau Software Inc., and Tibco Software Inc.

Companies in the predictive analytics market are focusing on product benchmarking, SWOT analysis, and financial statements to gain a competitive advantage. By leveraging these tools, companies can better understand the competitive landscape and develop strategies to improve their market position.

In conclusion, the global predictive analytics market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, driven by the increasing use of machine learning and statistical analysis techniques. Companies that adopt predictive analytics early on stand to gain a significant competitive advantage in the market.

Based on the research, Verified Market Research has segmented the global Predictive Analytics Market into Deployment Mode, Component, Vertical, Organization Size, And Geography.

Predictive Analytics Market, by Deployment Mode

Predictive Analytics Market, by Component

Predictive Analytics Market, by Vertical

Predictive Analytics Market, by Organization Size

Predictive Analytics Market, by Geography

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Top 5 Prescriptive Analytics Companies analyzing raw data for improving business decisions

Visualize Predictive Analytics Market using Verified Market Intelligence -:

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Our 250 Analysts and SMEs offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance use industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 15,000 high impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research.

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SOURCE Verified Market Research
FedEx Express, the worlds largest express transportation firm, has signed a deal with the Saudi Export Development Authority, represented by the Made in Saudi programme, to be its logistics solutions provider.

The programme aims to enhance the image of the kingdom's exports and make national products the preferred choice for consumers locally, regionally, and globally. The collaboration underpins FedEx commitment to supporting the kingdoms non-oil economic growth through international trade, in line with Saudi Arabias Vision 2030 goals to diversify the countrys economy.

Eng Abdulrahman Althukair, CEO of the Saudi Export Development Authority, indicated that the Authority is keen, through the Made in Saudi programme, to enhance effective strategic partnerships with the public and private sectors. The aim of such public-private partnerships is to support the Authoritys goals to improve the efficiency of exports; help exporters expand and reach new global markets; and contribute to the kingdoms Vision 2030 to increase the countrys non-oil exports to 50% of non-oil GDP.

Economic transformation

FedEx is committed to helping Saudi Arabia transform its economy through its Vision 2030. Our strategic collaboration with Made in Saudi will provide the countrys national goods and services greater access to efficient logistics solutions and an enhanced service experience. Our global network, customised solutions, value-added services, and in-depth industry expertise will help manufacturers and exporters expand their business to international markets and connect with a wider customer base. Our goal is to help them grow and transform into powerhouses that drive the growth of the Saudi economy, said Taarek Hinedi, vice president of FedEx Express Middle East Africa operations.

FedEx serves 66 countries across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa (MEISA) region, connecting 45% of the world's population. Today, FedEx has direct presence in 16 markets across MEISA, and 58 flights weekly to and from its Hub in Dubai, connecting the region to global markets, and providing customers with faster access. The alliance will provide competitive cross-border logistics services for SMEs and assist Saudi businesses in quickly entering international markets.

FedEx has been facilitating trade in Saudi Arabia since 1994 by providing its international solutions through local service providers. In 2021, FedEx announced its transition to a direct presence in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the companys commitment to meet the countrys growing international shipping demands. Through its extensive Middle East Road Network, FedEx has been connecting Saudi Arabia directly to the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Jordan.-- TradeArabia News Service
(Bloomberg) -- Premier Inc., a health-care company that sells services and supplies to thousands of hospitals and providers, rose in after-hours trading on news its evaluating strategic options, including a sale.

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The board established a committee of independent directors to evaluate alternatives including a sale of part or all of the company, recapitalization or other partnership opportunities, Premier said Monday in a statement.

The company has seen revenue shrink after helping hospitals through the Covid-19 pandemic. Chief Executive Officer Michael Alkire said in the release evolving market dynamics, coupled with an uncertain and challenging operating environment spurred the review.

Premier shares jumped as much as 9.7% after the end of normal trading hours in New York. Theyd fallen 24% this year through Mondays close.

Theres no guarantee the process will result in a transaction, the company said. Premier affirmed its fiscal year 2023 guidance and doesnt expect to provide a 2024 forecast when it reports annual results in August.

Premier works with medical providers, offering group purchasing and other supply services, as well as data and technology services. The companys expertise is in hospital systems complex supply chains, which were thrown into chaos as a result of Covid-19.

Premiers revenue has declined since the height of the pandemic. Net revenue for the nine months ending March 31 was just under $1 billion, down about 9% from the same period a year earlier. Net income to shareholders in the same period was down about 35%, according to a filing.

Hospitals in particular have faced higher labor costs and other operational challenges coming out of the pandemic.

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The independent committee will evaluate options that may involve actual or potential conflicts of interest, according to the companys statement. Its being advised by JPMorgan Securities. BofA Securities Inc. is serving as Premiers financial adviser.

(Updates with additional details throughout.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
CU SoCal Finalizes Merger with PICU

ANAHEIM HILLS, Calif., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) has finalized its merger with Printing Industries Credit Union (PICU), a credit union founded in 1961 and based in Riverside, CA. The move grew CU SoCal's assets to more than $2.7 billion and Membership to more than 145,000. As part of the merger, CU SoCal will also add a branch in Riverside, CA, increasing its branch network to 21 locations.

Cu SoCal (PRNewsfoto/Credit Union of Southern California)

Dave Gunderson, CU SoCal President and CEO, will continue to serve as CEO within the organization, which will now include PICU as a division of CU SoCal.

"PICU has a longstanding history of providing their Members with excellent service," said Gunderson. "We're excited to join forces with the credit union and continue providing their Members with the exceptional experience they've come to expect. New PICU Members can also look forward to an expanded suite of products and services, a highly-rated digital banking platform, and access to more branches."

"The partnership between CU SoCal and PICU will benefit the Members and make many new financial products and services available," said Susan Conjurski, PICU President and CEO. "Our team members will continue to serve the PICU Members under the new partnership, as well. I could not be more pleased with what CU SoCal has to offer. It's a win-win for everyone."

About Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal)

Founded in 1954 as Whittier Area Schools Federal Credit Union, CU SoCal is a credit union open to those who live, work, worship, or attend school in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. CU SoCal has a superior five-star financial rating from BauerFinancial, holds more than $2.7 billion in assets, and serves more than 145,000 Members. For more information, visit CUSoCal.org.

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SOURCE Credit Union of Southern California
Public Relations Global Network (PRGN)

Andy See Teong Leng

PRGN President Andy See Teong Leng, Principal Partner and Managing Director, Perspective Strategies, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Brad Kostka

PRGN Treasurer Brad Kostka, President, Roop & Co. Cleveland, Ohio, United States

Frederic Francois

PRGN Secretary Frederic Francois, Managing Partner, two cents, Brussels, Belgium

NEW YORK and LONDON, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Public Relations Global Network (PRGN) recently elected a new slate of officers for one of the worlds largest networks of independent PR and communications agencies. The appointments were announced at PRGNs recent bi-annual member conference, held in Budapest, Hungary.



Andy See Teong Leng





Andy See Teong Leng, principal partner and managing director of Perspective Strategies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, accepted the position to lead PRGN, the worldwide network of 55 independently owned firms, as its president for the next 12 months. He had previously served as secretary since April 2019 and was regional vice president for PRGNs Asia Pacific region from 2020 to 2022.

As the 32nd president of PRGN, Andy See Teong Leng succeeds former president David Fuscus, president and CEO or Xenophon Strategies in Washington, D.C., who will now assume the duties of immediate past president and chair of PRGNs Advisory Board.

It is exciting to work together with PRGN members around the world as we are a community of PR and strategic communications professionals who drive innovation and push for the highest global standards in our local practice, said Andy See. Indeed, I am honored to be the first Asian and Malaysian to be entrusted with the responsibility to step up in this global leadership role. It will certainly be a learning and enriching experience for my team and I as we explore opportunities to share expertise, experience and perspectives amongst our peers, he added.

Other PRGN officers elected by owners of member agencies include:

Brad Kostka





Treasurer Brad Kostka, president of Roop & Co. in Cleveland, Ohio, succeeding Amanda Hill, principal of Three Box Strategic Communications in Dallas, Texas, who served two two-year terms; and

Frederic-Francois





Secretary Frederic Francois, managing partner of two cents in Brussels, Belgium, succeeding Andy See Teong Leng who served in the role for four years.

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About the Public Relations Global Network

Founded in 1992 by a group of visionary public relations leaders, PRGN is one of the worlds largest international networks of independent public relations and communications agencies, with approximately 800 professionals in more than 70 locations.

PRGN partners are independent, local, owner-operated public relations and marketing communications firms that share expertise and resources, while providing broad-based comprehensive communications strategies to clients worldwide.

Companies or organizations interested in the services of PRGNs local agency network can visit PRGNs Agency Directory.

Independent agencies interested in joining the network can visit the member recruitment section of the PRGN website for more information.

Gabor Jelinek

Executive Director

Public Relations Global Network (PRGN)

gabor.jelinek@prgn.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/261ab531-4ea7-4d1f-817a-6a1452d509ec

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1487c991-f1eb-4220-99dd-cf0399e2146d

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Alongside the Master Collaboration Agreement with La Vie, the Group will also further enhance its operating model in Australasia for new franchised hotels with the launch of a centralized franchising services model

ADELAIDE, Australia, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Radisson Hotel Group and La Vie Hotels & Resorts have strengthened their partnership through the signing of a Master Collaboration Agreement to add over 30 hotels to the Group's portfolio over the next 10 years.

Lobby of the Radisson Blu Resort Galle in Sri Lanka, one of the three hotels opened in 2022

The two leading hospitality companies have penned a Master Collaboration Agreement that will see Radisson Hotel Group become La Vie's Hotels & Resort's preferred partner, enabling La Vie to develop, manage and operate properties under five industry-leading brands: Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson, Park Inn by Radisson, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, under a non-exclusive brand collaboration agreement.

La Vie Hotels & Resorts is an owner-centric hospitality management company and is a subsidiary of La Vie Hospitality Group, which provides end-to-end innovative hospitality solutions across multiple disciplines, including Education, Asset Management, Procurement, Building Management, Hospitality Services, and Hotel & Resorts.

The collaboration with La Vie will drive the expansion of the Group's portfolio in its key strategic growth markets including Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bangladesh, Fiji and Vanuatu.

The collaboration builds upon Radisson Hotel Group and La Vie's existing relationship which started in 2022 through the successful rebranding and conversion of three hotels in Sri Lanka. These hotels under the Radisson Blu and Radisson brands are located in the prime tourist destinations of Galle, Colombo and Kandy which are managed and operated by La Vie Hotels & Resorts.

Commenting on the partnership, Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, said: "We've enjoyed a strong partnership with La Vie Hotels & Resorts with successful property conversions in Sri Lanka to-date. This latest news marks the next step on our journey together and the expansion of our partnership across key regional markets. Radisson Hotel Group is known for delivering the highest standards of hospitality, and the expansion of our portfolio will enable more guests to enjoy all that our brands have to offer."

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La Vie Hotels and Resorts CEO, Jerry Xu, said: "This is a major partnership for our group and one that we are incredibly proud of. With the team at Radisson Hotel Group, we launched three landmark hotels under the Radisson Blu and Radisson brands in Sri Lanka in 2022 and within the space of 12-months they have enjoyed immense success. To now be extending our partnership and signing a Master Collaboration Agreement is a nod of confidence to our amazing team and we look forward to building on our successes together in the years to come."

"Our end-to-end innovative hospitality solutions, coupled with the strength of Radisson Hotel Group's distinctive brands and distribution, will enable us to offer exceptional experiences to guests across Asia Pacific, as we work towards our common goal of creating memorable moments."

The arrangement with La Vie is just one example of how Radisson Hotel Group strives to create flexible and innovative business models that meet the needs of the owners and developers through partnerships with leading third-party management operators.

With the growth of the Group's portfolio across the region, a centralised franchising service will soon be extended into Australasia, enabling independent and small-scale hotel companies to harness the power of Radisson Hotel Group's global network.

Andre de Jong, Area Senior Vice President for South East Asia & Pacific, said: "The centralised franchising service model will create opportunities for owners in the region to maximise efficiencies by streamlining operations. We are pleased to be able to offer our owners a dynamic range of offerings and business models that suit their unique needs, further strengthening our collaboration and driving success and revenue."

Providing numerous and flexible benefits to seasoned owners to independently operate their hotel, the centralized franchising services model will enable owners to leverage the support, brand recognition and global distribution of Radisson Hotel Group through proprietary systems and business intelligence tools. In addition to the Group's standard franchising services, additional resources will be made available for owners which includes revenue management, 24-hour reservations support, as well as advisory support that will enhance revenue and reduce their operating costs.

The Club of Revenue Management by Radisson Hotel Group (The Club) will be expanded into the region, enabling hotels to revolutionize their revenue management with cost-effective, cutting-edge system for maximum efficiency and rate optimization. The Club offers successful models for owners and partners to deliver results and uncover new business opportunities in every revenue stream.

The signing of pioneering agreements with trusted partners will support Radisson Hotel Group's strategy to grow exponentially in Asia Pacific over the next decade.

RADISSON HOTEL GROUP

The Radisson family of brands can be found around the world in more than 120 countries, with currently over 1,700 hotels in operation and under development. Radisson Hotel Group operates the business in EMEA and APAC with over 1,000 hotels in operation and under development. The international hotel group is rapidly growing with a plan to double the portfolio by 2025. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos.

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

Radisson Rewards is Radisson Hotel Group's international rewards program that delivers unique and personalized ways to create memorable moments that matter to its guests. Radisson Rewards offers an exceptional experience for its guests, meeting planners, and travel agents in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.

Radisson Meetings provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to stringent health and safety requirements, as outlined in the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol . The Safety Protocol is an integral part of Radisson Hotel Group's Safety and Security program ensuring we always care for our guests and team members.

For more information, visit our corporate website. Or connect with Radisson Hotels on:

LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube

About La Vie Hotels and Resorts

La Vie Hotels and Resorts is an owner centric independent hotel management company that offers a tailor-made, cohesive and strategic approach in response to our clients' real estate objectives within Hospitality. We are the region's leader in third party hotel management partnering with major international hotel brands. The portfolio represents a collection of diverse properties from hotels in bustling downtown cities, resorts in popular tourism destinations and boutique hotels in sought after locations. The group currently operates hotels and resorts across Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Greater China, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Ukraine and Vietnam including those underdevelopment.

For more information, head to www.laviehospitalitygroup.com

(PRNewsfoto/Radisson Hotel Group)

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SOURCE Radisson Hotel Group
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Getting an unexpected $5,000 bonus would solve a whole lot of financial problems for most Americans. How you decide to solve them depends on your personal financial situation.

See: Why Nobody Is Buying Vacation Homes Anymore

More: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch

If you are heavily in debt and behind on the bills, then your focus will probably be on paying those debts down. If you are all caught up on your bills but behind on retirement savings, then building those savings might take priority. Those who are financially comfortable might decide to treat themselves to a luxurious vacation or donate money to their favorite charity.

A GOBankingRates survey of 1,005 U.S. adults conducted in January 2023 aimed to find out how people might spend the money. One of the survey questions was, If you received an unexpected bonus of $5,000, whats the first thing you would do with it? Here are the answers, in order of importance:

Pay off debt : 32.74%

Catch up on past due bills : 21%

Save it for short-term expenditures or emergencies : 17.71%

Save it for a long-term goal : 12.74%

Pay for a vacation : 9.65%

Pay for a major home improvement: 6.17%

More than half of respondents would put the money toward debt or bills, while less than one-tenth would splurge on a vacation. Those numbers give you a pretty fair idea of the financial situation many Americans find themselves in these days.

Most financial experts would applaud using a $5,000 bonus to pay down debt, catch up on bills and build emergency funds.

If people get a surprise $5,000, theres a tendency to think of it as bonus play money, Aliya Padamsee, a director of financial solutions at Fidelity, said in a blog on the companys website. But think about using it as an opportunity to get ahead, not to stay in the same place.

Fidelity recommends keeping either one months rent or at least $1,000 (whichever is more) in a savings account at all times. If you dont have that savings on hand, put part of the bonus into a new savings account. Beyond that, Fidelity advises paying down your high-interest credit-card debt and establishing an emergency fund that would cover three to six months of expenses.

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If you already have sufficient savings and are free of credit-card and other high-interest debt, then most financial advisors suggest putting your bonus money into financial vehicles that will help it grow.

A US Bank blog recommends increasing contributions to your 401(k), 403(b) or IRA account.

Consider contributing at least 10-15% of your pre-tax salary each year to your retirement accounts, US Bank said. If youve already maxed out your contributions, consider opening or adding funds to other investment accounts, such as health savings accounts (HSAs), brokerage accounts or robo-advisors.

If you are raising a young family, Morgan Stanley recommends increasing your education savings to help pay for the ever-rising price of college. One good option is a 529 Education Savings Plan, which offers tax-free earnings growth and tax-free withdrawals when used for qualified education expenses.

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Other options are to put all or part of your $5,000 bonus into stocks, bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds or real estate investments. If this is the route you take, be sure to diversify your investments so you dont put all your money into the same type of asset. Funds offer a way to diversify your holdings in a single asset. If you are new to investing, consider hiring a financial advisor to help ensure the highest returns.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Receive a $5K Bonus? Heres Where Money Experts Advise Putting the Money
(Reuters) - Shell Plc on Monday said the reignited fire at its chemicals facility in the Houston suburb of Deer Park, Texas, was extinguished Sunday night but intermittent flaring could continue.

The fire, which initially ignited on Friday in an explosion in an olefins unit, was extinguished for a few hours on Saturday morning before reigniting later.

"We are using less water to manage the hot spots and have closed the valve eliminating discharge to the Houston Ship Channel," the company said in a statement.

No injuries were reported from the fire. Nine people were evaluated and released at local hospitals on Friday for possible chemical exposure.

"Air monitoring is ongoing and has not detected any harmful levels of chemicals affecting neighboring communities. There is no danger to the nearby community," Shell said, adding the cause of the fire was under investigation.

Jennifer Hadayia, executive director of Air Alliance Houston, said Shell's statements about risks to the community were self-serving.

"History has shown that these early statements are for the benefit of industry public relations and not public health," Hadayia said.

Water may continue to be sprayed for up to 36 hours after the fire is extinguished to keep nearby equipment cool, Shell spokesperson Curtis Smith said on Sunday.

Olefins units are the central units in petrochemical complexes, producing ethylene, butadiene and propylene that are used to make plastics and other products like detergent and rubber.

(Reporting by Deep Vakil in Bengaluru; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Renew Esthetics is distinguished by providing personalized non-invasive aesthetic medical treatments for over 17 years, Located in Astoria, NY. The medical spa specializes in esthetic laser treatments, they focus on providing unique experiences to all their patients by offering a complimentary initial consultation with comprehensive beauty information and education before starting any aesthetic medical treatments which is one of the greatest characteristics that makes them distinctive in the aesthetic field.

Renew Esthetics Medical Spa, Monday, May 8, 2023, Press release picture

Renew Esthetics has grown in credibility in the area earning the preference of all their patients thanks to their commitment in providing top quality result driven treatments by using innovative FDA-approved technology. All its treatments are focused on the integral beauty of the patient, in order to achieve results that transform beauty from the inside out, prioritizing on diversity and Inclusion.

They offer many types of treatments, such as laser treatments for skin resurfacing and hair removal, medical facials such as chemical peels, microneedling, hydraFacial, injectables and many more, which treat conditions such as wrinkles or expression lines, scars, acne, spots, among others, performed by registered nurses, licensed medical estheticians and certified laser technicians. Dr. Roly Borges is their Medical Director and he is well-known as a Master Injectable Specialist in the field.

Renew Esthetics Medical SPA works to be the best in the Medical Esthetics industry, being the best comes from how they embrace their differences within their teamwork: such as their unique talents, work ethic, track record, nationality, experiences and knowledge.

"Inclusion and diversity are at the heart of the Renew Esthetics culture. They are committed to provide an environment where all patients that visit us can be themselves, embrace differences and feel included and accepted as they are. We continue to learn and work every day as the world continues to evolve, this is our pride and goal." Said the CEO of the company.

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Renew Esthetics Medical Spa is considered the #1 medical spa in Astoria NY, and it is visited by diverse renowned personalities such as Miss Universe Lupita Jones, Univision reporter Gelena Solano, Miss Universe Honduras Rebecca Rodriguez,, Actress & Miss Universe Alicia Machado, reporter Daneida Polanco, and many others!

Idalis Bailey is an accomplished CEO-Founder of Renew Esthetics Medical Spa located in Astoria, Queens, NY. She is a highly skilled Skin Care Specialist and registered nurse hailing from Colombia. Additionally, she holds an MBA in Marketing from Palermo University, and she is a NYS Licensed Medical Aesthetician & Certified Laser Technician.

Over the past 17 years, Bailey has been providing top-notch skin treatments, including laser skin rejuvenation, medical facials, and laser hair removal in the New York area. She is widely regarded as an icon in laser hair removal, thanks to her unparalleled expertise in the field.

Bailey arrived in the USA in 2004 and has since worked tirelessly to establish her business with the help of her son, Brian Sanchez. Despite being a teenager, Sanchez is a skilled expert in aesthetics digital marketing, and his support has been a significant motivation for Bailey.

In addition, Idalis Bailey is a global leader in awareness for integral beauty, also known as Idalisbeautysavvy Idalis , international speaker, author of best-selling books, podcaster and host of "Hash Time with Idalis" and creator of "Global Integral Beauty", a platform that connects and trains professionals in the health, wellness and aesthetics sector all around the world.

"I have managed to build an innovative space that offers all the comforts so that my patients feel safe, accompanied and satisfied throughout their treatment. Big quality in customer service and treatments is my priority, our focus is to provide personalized services through the highest technology that offer satisfactory and effective results. We seek to generate a positive impact so that our patients enjoy a unique experience with Renew", Idalis adds.

She is stepping into 2023 with some futured with amazing goals and plans for her business and for herself, such as the launching of her book "El Arte del Cuidado de la Piel", the launching of her IBS products for skin care, expanding the catalog of her facial rejuvenation products.

Without a doubt, Idalis 's story is a source of hard work and inspiration not only to female entrepreneurs, but to all of us. To find out more about her work, follow her on Instagram here and check out Renew's website here . You can also visit Renew's Instagram page here .

About Renew Esthetics Medical Spa:

Renew Esthetics Esthetics Medical Spa is a company distinguished by providing personalized non-invasive aesthetic medical treatments for over 17 years, based in Astoria, NY.

Contact:

Paula Henderson

561-768-4444

phendersonnews@gmail.com

SOURCE: Renew Esthetics Esthetics Medical Spa





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FILE PHOTO: The Bryan Mound Strategic Petroleum Reserve is seen in an aerial photograph over Freeport, Texas

Republicans ask watchdog to assess US oil reserve management FILE PHOTO: The Bryan Mound Strategic Petroleum Reserve is seen in an aerial photograph over Freeport, Texas

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Two Republicans on Monday asked a congressional watchdog to assess the Biden administration's management of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and audit its modernization program, saying sales from the SPR have undermined U.S. energy security.

Senator John Barrasso, ranking member of the Senate energy committee, and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, head of the House energy committee, asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate the Department of Energy's (DOE) management of the reserve after the administration oversaw sales of about 250 million barrels from the facility last year.

The sales have pushed levels of the reserve to the lowest since 1983.

"DOE's mismanagement of the SPR has undermined Americas energy security, leaving the nation more vulnerable to energy supply disruptions, and increasing the ability for OPEC and Russia to use energy as a geopolitical weapon," the lawmakers wrote to Gene Dodaro, the head of the GAO.

A DOE spokesperson said the department is committed to refilling the reserve "in a manner that will deliver the best value for American taxpayers and protect U.S. national (and economic) security interests, while abiding by congressional mandates and undertaking necessary maintenance that is also part of good stewardship."

Over about six months last year, the Biden administration conducted a record sale of 180 million barrels of oil to combat high gasoline prices after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Republican lawmakers said they were concerned the SPR sales may have caused structural damage to its pipelines and caverns, compromising its ability to meet its energy security mission in the event of a supply disruption.

The Biden administration said last month the sales did not damage the SPR, and the lab that monitors the sites even said the record drawdown may extend the longevity of the underground storage caverns.

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm has said purchases to replenish the SPR could begin late this year after life extension work is complete at two of the reserves' four sites on the coasts of Louisiana and Texas and after a congressionally mandated sale.

The lawmakers said they were concerned about delays and cost overruns in the SPR modernization program authorized by Congress in 2015.

(Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Bill Berkrot and Sonali Paul)
Extrapolate

The security and surveillance market is forecast to accrue an 8.50% CAGR in the forthcoming years. The accelerated growth is primarily due to the development of surveillance technology and the growing adoption of safety measures to prevent crimes.

Dubai, UAE, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Security and Surveillance Market was valued at USD 16190 million in 2021 and is anticipated to grow to USD 28660 million by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.50% during the forecast period. The need for security and surveillance equipment has been rising due to increased concerns about global security, theft prevention, and safety assurance.

There are millions of surveillance cameras installed all over the world. Around 65% of these cameras are found in Asia. Recently, CCTV has been gradually growing, fueling the market growth. The application of this technology has allowed for a significant expansion of state surveillance as well as an advancement in sophisticated social monitoring and control measures.

Get a Sample PDF of the Report: https://www.extrapolate.com/sample/machinery-equipment/security-and-surveillance-market-report/30704

Trending Now: Verkada Security Camera and Analytics Solution to be Utilized Across Oxford Collection of Hotels

The IT division at the Oxford Collection's Bend, Oregon, headquarters piloted several IP-based video surveillance systems before settling on Verkada for several reasons. The hotel chain can effortlessly manage and maintain video surveillance across all its hotels due to high-quality cameras, video analytics capabilities, and cloud-based storage and administration software.

The project started at its central location, the Oxford Hotel Bend. This year, it will completely upgrade the Oxford Suites Redding hotel in California with 30 new HD and 4K cameras. The Bend Hotel's new Roam restaurant, the hotel's entrance, the valet parking area, and an alleyway are all places where the IT team has so far deployed 20 cameras. This year, the group aims to install eight more cameras in a nearby parking garage.

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The business assists police with their investigations using Verkada's license plate recognition technology. It also uses cameras and analytics to enhance customer service and more effectively manage operations.

Competitive Landscape

The global market for security and surveillance equipment is dominated by a limited number of large-scale players. Most security and surveillance equipment manufacturers invest significantly in in-depth research and development to build new and enhanced systems that incorporate extra digital and alarm services.

Key players in the market include:

Hikvision

Dahua Technology

Axis Communications AB

Panasonic

Honeywell Security

Hanwha

Tyco

Bosch Security Systems

Pelco

Samsung

Uniview

Flir Systems, Inc

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Segmentation Overview:

The global Security & Surveillance market is primarily segmented by product types, which include:

Security Cameras

DVR & NVR

Security Cameras Continue to Drive Revenue Generation Owing to Preventing of Illegal Activities



The video surveillance market is currently being led by the security cameras segment. The capacity to prevent illegal activity and burglary is a significant market driver for security and surveillance systems throughout the globe. Adequate security and surveillance systems shield businesses from staff theft and shoplifting. The surveillance system enables authorities to concentrate on improving products while easing the effort of monitoring every aspect of the firm.

The report also covers the Security & Surveillance market's applications from 2017 to 2028, which include:

Residential Use

Commercial Use

Public & Government Infrastructure

Growing Prevention of Crime in Residential Buildings to Propel Growth Opportunities



In terms of application, the residential use segment for video surveillance is leading the market and will likely retain its dominance in the upcoming years. Government and residential buildings are now where crimes are most likely to occur. Building owners are installing modern CCTV cameras to notice and analyze suspicious situations on their own to effectively combat theft, violence, and vandalism.

Purchase This Comprehensive Research Report for Valuable Market Insights: https://www.extrapolate.com/complete-checkout-buyal/30704

Growing Security Standards Across the Globe to Propel Sales

As a result of recent advancements and breakthroughs, the global security and surveillance market has reached new heights. For instance, Hikvision introduced its technologically advanced webcam products in November 2021. These products include richer built-in capabilities that support the implementation of high-security standards. Security and surveillance systems have a wide range of monitoring capabilities, which reduces the need for security personnel and other manual security resources.



In June 2022, Bosch Security announced its MIC IP fusion 9000i 9mm camera to give enterprises a 360-degree view of essential work sites and enable real-time dispatch in a matter of seconds. With the help of metadata fusion technology, the camera system can reliably forecast object detection and deliver notifications about unusual activity.

Asia Pacific to Continue to Host Prominent Manufacturers, Creating Growth Opportunities

Asia-Pacific is expected to account for the largest share of the global market during the projected period. A key factor driving the demand for security and surveillance systems is the existence of major players in the region. The majority of security systems are found in various government and commercial facilities.

The creation of numerous malls, retail businesses, and public facilities, along with the steadily growing population, boosts the demand for sophisticated security measures to deter criminal activity. The global security and surveillance market is majorly driven by the seamless security systems introduced due to expanding technological breakthroughs.

For more information on the report, visit: https://www.extrapolate.com/machinery-equipment/security-and-surveillance-market-report/30704

Well Developed and Established IT Infrastructure in North America to Boost Sales

North America is anticipated to grow at a rapid CAGR during the forecast period owing to several factors, such as previously developed and established IT infrastructure in the region among other expanding commercial sectors. Furthermore, the region witnessed the highest sales of security and surveillance systems due to the presence of major international manufacturers.

Key Benefits of This Market Research:

Industry drivers, restraints, and opportunities covered in the study

Neutral perspective on the market performance

Recent industry trends and developments

Competitive landscape & strategies of key players

Potential & niche segments and regions exhibiting promising growth covered

Historical, current, and projected market size, in terms of value

In-depth analysis of the Security & Surveillance Market

Overview of the regional outlook of the Security & Surveillance Market

Key Points from TOC:

1 Research Methodology and Statistical Scope

2 Security & Surveillance Market Overview

3 Security & Surveillance Market Competitive Landscape

4 Security & Surveillance Industry Chain Analysis

5 The Development and Dynamics of Security & Surveillance Market5.1 Key Development Trends

6 Security & Surveillance Market Segmentation by Type

7 Security & Surveillance Market Segmentation by Application

8 Security & Surveillance Market Segmentation by Region

9 Key Companies Profiled

10 Security & Surveillance Market Forecast by Region

11 Forecast Market by Type and by Application (2022-2028)

12 Conclusion and Key Findings

Browse Complete TOC: https://www.extrapolate.com/toc/machinery-equipment/security-and-surveillance-market-report/30704

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COEUR D' ALENE, ID / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Sidney Resources Corporation (OTC PINK:SDRC) is pleased to announce the exploration and development plans for the Lucky Ben and Walla Walla project sites near Warren, Idaho, this season. Based on previous dates for when the road was plowed open by the Valley and Idaho County Road departments, the company anticipates that the route into Warren, which provides access to Lucky Ben, will be available between May 26 and June 18. It is anticipated that access to the Walla Walla project site will begin around July 15.

Operations at the Lucky Ben Project will be concentrated on the ore body located beneath the first previously mined stope and on modeling and projecting this year's production as a test case to accurately determine the nugget effect on assay results. The Lucky Ben is situated in the Warren Mining District, about 110 miles north of Boise, Idaho. Resource models, such as fire tests and qualified person assessments, will be produced by the company. This is a test of modeling from assays, and by using this approach, the company can determine how well the estimate performs with a clearly defined zone and the best way to account for the nugget effect in the assays.

The Mineral Resource Estimate Report (MRE) for this ore body will be prepared by Peter Ellsworth, P.G., a Qualified person (QP). The company has provided a substantial collection of fire assay samples, including drill core samples from directly intersecting the vein, as well as numerous historical records for review. With 37 years of expertise in mining and mineral exploration, Mr. Ellsworth is a professional geologist who is currently in his 30th year as an independent consultant. Proficient in project management, corporate leadership, and all aspects of geologic work connected to natural resource exploration and development. He is qualified in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Australian JORC code.

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The company will be able to drift directly on the vein and stope the ore body thanks to the work on the lower tunnel that was finished last year. As soon as possible, a specially constructed mill will be moved onto the property. The mill's design necessitates just a small amount of power and recycles water utilized between clean and effluent storage tanks. To generate the sample, the mill

contains an auto-sampler in the tail stream. The mill's size is ideal for on-site transportation up the winding, narrow Arlise Gulch Road.

All of the work planned at Lucky Ben will be carried out on private property. The permit work is currently underway. The work to fully open the historic original tunnel to the face will take place in tandem with the operations in the lower tunnel. The company's objective is to identify additional previously mined stopes and conduct an extensive sampling program in accordance with the guidelines established for producing a complete 43-101 report.

Operations at the Walla Walla Project will include a full assessment of past operations and develop an operations plan specific to this location. The Walla Walla Project is within the Marshall Lake Mining District, Idaho County. Approximately 10 miles from the Lucky Ben Project, the Walla Walla Mine is a high grade gold vein located near the historic Kimberly and Warren Mining Districts. The claim group consists of a total of 47 lode claims or 1.61 square miles. The company has the capability to set up a mill on the property if it is determined that a similar program being undertaken at Lucky Ben is the best course of action at Walla Walla.

Sidney Resources Corporation is excited to be embarking on this season's exploration and development plans for the Lucky Ben and Walla Walla project sites. The company believes that these projects have the potential to generate significant value for its shareholders and looks forward to providing further updates on progress as they become available.

In other exciting news, the U.S. Forest Service has approved the permit for the construction of the new access road to the Lucky Ben. The permit allows for up to five years to complete the road's construction.

Contact & Learn More:

Sidney Resources Corporation

Phone: 509-552-9858

dan@sdrccorp.com

Corporate Website: https://sidneyresources.com/

Corporate Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sidney-resources-corp/

Corporate Twitter: https://twitter.com/SDRCMINING

Corporate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidney_resources_corp/

About Sidney Resources Corp.

Originally founded in 1896 and incorporated in 1910, Sidney Resources Corporation is a clean technology, clean refining, clean water, exploration, and extraction company that strives to change the way the world develops. Most importantly, these efforts will provide a better, cleaner world so our children can express their brilliance to the highest of their potential without the teratogens and toxins that inhibit development. Our future lies in our future generation's ability to solve problems. Our focus is to develop technologies and implement cleaner methodologies that are not only positive from an economic perspective but are also designed to maintain a sustainable future.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements relate to future events, including our ability to raise capital, or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause materially different results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

For a discussion of these risks and uncertainties, please see our filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc. Our public filings with the OTC Markets Group Inc are available from commercial document retrieval services and at the website maintained by the OTC Markets at: https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/SDRC/disclosure

SOURCE: Sidney Resources Corp.





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Dubai can ace the race of the worlds cities aspiring to become the next Silicon Valley, said a group of experts from around the world who assembled at the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

Speaking at a panel discussion titled Government, Business and Science at the Machines Can See 2023 summit, the experts conversed about the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the UAE and its potential to become the next Silicon Valley.

Exploring the seamless possibilities of AI, policymakers from the public sector, businesses, and academia opined that Dubai and the UAE are rapidly becoming a hub of advanced technologies, particularly in AI.

Supportive environment

We are privileged to have hosted the Machines Can See 2023 summit in the UAE. The name Dub.ai reflects the UAEs supportive environment for innovation and AI advancement for humanitys benefit. We brought some of the brightest minds in the field to the prestigious Museum of the Future, sharing their powerful vision and knowledge, said Alexander Khanin, founder, and director of Polynome, which organised the summit.

All cities around the world aspire to become the next Silicon Valley. However, to become that, a city needs to consider the factors contributing to the innovation ecosystem: a combination of talent, capital, private sector engagement and commercialisation, said Sharif El-Badawi, CEO of Dubai Future District Fund, during the discussion.

Elaborating on what more it would take for the UAE to become Silicon Valley, El-Badawi said, It is possible by finding a way to commercialise research and innovations in science and technology to create a successful ecosystem similar to Silicon Valley. The government, academia, and corporates also play important roles in creating an environment conducive to innovation, he added.

Knowledge creation

As the UAE has successfully attracted talent, its next focus should be on knowledge creation and building technical capabilities. This is the next wave happening in the nation. Our efforts will unlock the potential within Dubais Government-related entities to create value-add tracks for technologists building in the region, remarked El-Badawi.

Khalifa AlQama, Director of Dubai Future Labs, Dubai Future Foundation, said technology is the most crucial enabler. The most critical aspect is the business value brought by having all the localised infrastructure, which can enable AI adoption as an enterprise. We have established an AI ecosystem, a localised service stack to assist organisations in modernising data. We need to assist organisations on the ground to modernise their data best and prepare the data for the AI.

Organisations can modernise their data, which is more of a problem than AI itself. If you can address that problem, AI will probably have the right food to eat in general, the expected outcomes. Each vertical has its appetite, be it banking, finance, healthcare, education, or the government, which always takes the lead with their mandates defined, he added.

AI tech

The fact that the UAE is the only country with a state-level Ministry of AI is a testament to its commitment to supporting the progress of AI technology.

The one-day summit was hosted under the aegis of the UAE Ministry for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, Dubais Department of Economy and Tourism, and Dubai Future Labs, an initiative of the Dubai Future Foundation, exploring current advancements of AI, its applications, and its future in the UAE and the rest of the world.

This year, the summit deliberated on the future of computer vision and machine learning with the foremost experts in 3D computer vision, deep learning, generative AI, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and so on.

Diverse range

The summit featured a diverse range of presentations and panel discussions from experts like Hao Li, Associate Professor at the Mohamed bin Zayed University of AI; Marc Pollefeys, Director of the Microsoft Mixed Reality and AI Lab, Professor at ETH Zurich; Philip Torr, Professor at Oxford University, Co-Founder at Aistetic Oxsight, and Chief Scientist at FiveAI; Bernard S. Ghanem, Professor at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology; Fernando de la Torre, Professor at Carnegie Mellon University; Serge Belongie, Professor at the University of Copenhagen; Daniel Cremers, Professor at the Technical University of Munich, Director and Co-Founder at Artisense; Manohar Paluri, Senior Director at META; Dr Abrar Abdulnabi, Head of AI at Saal.ai; Kamran Ashan, Senior Director AI and Smart Data at Etisalat; Sameera Fernandes, Global Educationist and Director  Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Century Financial; and Alexei Posternak, Managing Partner at INTEMA.

The Machines Can See summit was organised by Polynome Events and received support from governmental and academic organisations such as Destination Alliance, the Ministry of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Office, Khalifa University, Mohamed Bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Dubai Future Foundation as well as sponsors, including INTEMA technological accelerator, YanGo and Century Financial.-- TradeArabia News Service
VANCOUVER, BC, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Sitka Gold Corp. ("Sitka" or the "Company") (CSE: SIG) (FSE: 1RF) (OTCQB: SITKF) is pleased to announce it has completed the winter phase of its 2023 diamond drill program at the Company's 376 square kilometre, road accessible RC Gold Project ("RC Gold" or the "Project") located in Yukon's prolific Tombstone Gold Belt ("TGB"), approximately 100 kilometres east of Dawson City. Three diamond drill holes (DDRCCC-23-041 to -043) totalling approximately 1500 metres were completed during this phase of drilling with multiple occurrences of visible gold observed in each drill hole (see Figures 4 - 6). Core samples for all three drill holes have been submitted to the lab for analysis and the Company is currently awaiting assay results.

News Release Highlights

Multiple occurrences of visible gold grains observed in all three drill holes

Significant quartz vein densities observed in all three drill holes

Confirmation that mineralization of the Blackjack gold deposit extends further to the east and to depth

"We are very encouraged by the visual observations of the drill holes completed during this initial phase of 2023 drilling at RC Gold," stated Cor Coe, P.Geo., CEO and Director of Sitka. "An early start to this year's diamond drilling at the Company's year-round, road accessible RC Gold Project has provided us with a nice jump on the 2023 summer field season with approximately 1500 metres of our planned 10,000 metre drilling program already completed this year. With visible gold and significant vein densities observed in every drill hole completed so far this year, we are eager to see what the assay results produce as we continue to systematically define this gold rich corridor. This corridor includes the recent discovery of two NI 43-101 compliant gold deposits situated 1.5 kilometres apart and totaling 1.34 million gold ounces, as announced earlier this year."

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DDRCCC23-042 was drilled on a northeast azimuth with a -60 degree dip (Figures 1 and 2). The hole was designed to further test for an extension of high-grade material at depth below and to the west of drill holes DDRCCC-22-025 and DDRCCC-22-038 (see news releases dated June 13, 2022 & November 30, 2022). The hole was a step out 81 metres SSW from DDRCCC23-041, which had encountered significant densities of quartz sulphide veins and visible gold (see news release dated April 12, 2023). From surface to 464 m RCCC23-042 intersected moderately altered metasediments cut by metre scale megacrystic quartz monzonite (MQMZ) dykes. From 464 m to the end of the hole at 527.3 m the hole intersected dominantly MQMZ with metre scale inclusions of metasediments. Quartz-sulphide veins occurred throughout the hole, with the highest density noted from 280 m to 488 m. Multiple occurrences of visible gold with bismuthinite was noted in quartz veins within the core of the drill hole (see Figures 5 and 7).

DDRCCC23-043 was collared at the same location as DDRCCC21-021 (see news release dated December 13, 2021) and drilled at an azimuth of 005 degrees and a dip of -85 degrees (see Figures 1 and 3). The purpose of the hole was to fill in a gap of data in the current resource model and to extend the higher grade mineralization in the current resource to depth. The hole intersected dominantly MQMZ from surface to 111.25 m, metasediments intruded by metre scale MQMZ dykes to 318.45 m, dominantly MQMZ with metasediments to 382.1 m and then granite dykes with inclusions of MQMZ xenoliths to the end of the hole at 426.7 m. Quartz sulphide veins intersected all units with the highest intensity of veining occurring from 250 m to the end of the hole at 426.7 m. Visible gold was noted multiple times in quartz  bismuthinite veins. (see Figures 6 and 8).

Figure 1: Plan Map of Drill Hole Locations and Surface Geochemistry across the Blackjack, Saddle and Eiger Zones (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 2: Cross Section of DDRCCC-23-041 and -042 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 3: Cross Section of DDRCCC-23-042 and -043 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 4: Visible Gold Observed in DDRCCC-23-041 (see news release dated April 12, 2023) (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 5: Examples of Visible Gold Observed in DDRCCC-23-042 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 6: Examples of Visible Gold Observed in DDRCCC-23-043 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 7: Example of Drill Core Containing Visible Gold From DDRCCC23-042 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Figure 8: Example of Drill Core Containing Visible Gold From DDRCCC23-043 (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

About the RC Gold Project

The RC Gold Project (RC Gold) consists of a 376 square kilometre contiguous district-scale land package located in the newly road accessible Clear Creek, Big Creek, and Sprague Creek districts in the heart of Yukon's Tombstone Gold Belt. It is the largest consolidated land package strategically positioned mid-way between Victoria Gold's Eagle Gold Mine - Yukon's newest gold mine which reached commercial production in the summer of 2020 - and Sabre Gold Mine's Brewery Creek Gold Mine. The RC Gold Project land package comprises five underlying properties, namely, the RC, Bee Bop, Mahtin, Clear Creek, and Barney Ridge properties*.

On January 19, 2023 Sitka Gold announced an Initial Mineral Resource Estimate prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") guidelines for the RC Gold Property of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1). The road accessible, pit constrained Mineral Resource is classified as inferred and is contained in two near/on-surface zones: The Blackjack and Eiger deposits. The Mineral Resource estimate is presented in the following table at a base case cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au:

Table 1: RC Gold Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate

COG g/t

Au Blackjack Zone

Eiger Zone

Combined Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's

Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's

Tonnes 000's Au g/t 0z Au 000's 0.20 35,798 0.80 921

32,523 0.45 471

68,321 0.63 1,391 0.25 33,743 0.83 900

27,362 0.50 440

61,105 0.68 1,340 0.30 31,282 0.88 885

22,253 0.55 393

53,535 0.74 1,279 0.35 29,065 0.92 860

17,817 0.60 344

46,882 0.80 1,203 0.40 26,975 0.96 833

14,506 0.66 308

41,481 0.86 1,140

Notes 1. Mineral resource estimate prepared by Ronald G. Simpson of GeoSim Services Inc. with an effective date of January 19,

2023. Mineral Resources are classified using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards. 2. The cut-off grade of 0.25 g/t Au is believed to provide a reasonable margin over operating and sustaining costs for open-pit

mining and processing 3. Mineral resources are constrained by an optimised pit shell using the following assumptions: US$1800/oz Au price; a 45

pit slope; assumed metallurgical recovery of 85%; mining costs of US$2.00 per tonne; processing costs of US$8.00 per

tonne; G&A of US$1.50/t. 4. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. 5. Totals may not sum due to rounding.





The Initial Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold at the RC Gold Project is comprised of two deposits: the Blackjack deposit containing 900,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.83 g/t gold and the Eiger deposit containing 440,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 0.50 g/t gold (see news release dated January 19, 2023). Both of these deposits are at/near surface, are potentially open pit minable and amenable to heap leaching, with initial bottle roll tests indicating that the gold is not refractory and has high gold recoveries of up to 94% with minimal NaCN consumption (see News Release July 13, 2022).

The Blackjack and Eiger deposits are in close proximity to highway and power infrastructure, are road accessible year-round, remain open in all directions and are respectively located at the western and eastern end of a large, 500 metre by 2 kilometre intrusion related gold system that was recently discovered on the Property. To date, just 41 diamond drill holes have been drilled into this system for a total of approximately 14,500 metres with results of up to 201.0 m of 1.26 g/t gold from surface, including 82.0 m of 2.04 g/t gold and 19.5 m of 4.87 g/t gold at Blackjack (drill hole DDRCCC-22-040; see news release dated January 11, 2023) and 354 m of 0.41 g/t gold including 72 m of 0.72 g/t gold at Eiger (drill hole DDRCCC-21-09; see news release date August 19, 2021). Assays are pending for the 3 diamond drill holes totaling approximately 1500 metres drilled during the winter of this year (2023).

Several high priority intrusion related gold targets exist at RC Gold with nine outcropped intrusions identified to date over the 376 sq km property, however Sitka's main focus at the RC Gold Project has been on the underlying Clear Creek Property where a large 500 metre by 2000 metre intrusion related gold system covering the area over the Blackjack, Saddle and Eiger zones was identified. Prior to the onset of the 2023 winter drilling program, the Company had drilled 38 diamond drill holes into this system for a total of approximately 13,000 metres. This drilling culminated in the discovery of the Blackjack and Eiger deposits with an initial inferred mineral resource estimate of 1,340,000 gold ounces(1).

Sitka Gold inherited a wealth of historical and current data from these properties from work spanning the last 40 years. Recent exploration work and the compilation of historical data have defined several mineralized zones with both bulk tonnage, intrusion-related gold deposit targets and high-grade, vein- and breccia-hosted gold targets. The RC Gold Project also has a common border with Victoria Gold's Clear Creek property at its western boundary and Florin Resources' Florin Gold property at its northern boundary.

(1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson

Mining District, Yukon Territory.

*For more detailed information on the underlying properties please visit our website at www.sitkagoldcorp.com.

Deposit Model

Exploration on the Property has mainly focused on identifying an intrusion-related gold system ("IRGS"). The property is part of the Tombstone Gold Belt which is the prominent host to IRGS deposits within the Tintina Gold Province in Yukon and Alaska. Notable deposits from the belt include: Fort Knox Mine in Alaska with current Proven and Probable Reserves of 230 million tonnes at 0.3 g/t Au (2.471 million ounces; Sims 2018)(1); Eagle Gold Mine with current Measured and Indicated Resources of 233 million tonnes at a grade of 0.57 g/t Au at the Eagle Main Zone (4.303 million ounces; Harvey et al, 2022)(2); the Brewery Creek deposit with current Indicated Mineral Resource of 22.2 million tonnes at a gold grade of 1.11 g/t (0.789 million ounces; Hulse et al. 2020)(3); the Florin Gold deposit, located adjacent to Sitka's RC Gold project, with a current Inferred Mineral Resource of 170.99 million tonnes grading 0.45 g/t (2.47 million ounces; Simpson 2021)(4) and the AurMac Project with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 207.0 million tonnes grading 0.60 gram per tonne gold (3.99 million ounces; Jutras 2022)(5).

(1) Sims J. Fort Knox Mine Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska, USA National Instrument 43-101 Technical

Report. June 11, 2018. https://s2.q4cdn.com/496390694/files/doc_downloads/2018/Fort-Knox-June-2018-

Technical-Report.pdf (2) Harvey N., Gray P., Winterton J., Jutras M., Levy M.,Technical Report for the Eagle Gold Mine, Yukon Territory,

Canada. Victoria Gold Corp. December 31, 2022.

https://vgcx.com/site/assets/files/6534/vgcx_-_2023_eagle_mine_technical_report_final.pdf (3) Hulse D, Emanuel C, Cook C. NI43-101 Technical Report on Mineral Resources. Gustavson Associates. May

31, 2020.

https://www.goldenpredator.com/_resources/Brewery-Creek_NI-43-101-05OCT2020-File.pdf (4) Simpson R. Florin Gold Project NI43-101 Technical Report. Geosim Services Inc. April 21, 2021.

https://sedar.com/GetFile.do?lang=EN&docClass=24&issuerNo=00005795&issuerType=03&projectNo=03236138&docI

d=4984158 (5) Banyan Gold News Release Dated May 17, 2022 (Technical Report to be filed within 45 days of news release) https://www.banyangold.com/news-releases/2022/banyan-announces-4-million-ounce-gold-mineral-resource-estimate-for-the-aurmac-property-yukon-canada/

About Sitka Gold Corp.

Sitka Gold Corp. is a well-funded mineral exploration company headquartered in Canada. The Company is managed by a team of experienced industry professionals and is focused on exploring for economically viable mineral deposits with its primary emphasis on gold, silver and copper mineral properties of merit. Sitka currently has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the RC, Barney Ridge, Clear Creek and OGI properties in the Yukon and the Burro Creek Gold property in Arizona. Sitka owns a 100% interest in its Alpha Gold property in Nevada, its Mahtin Gold property in the Yukon and its Coppermine River project in Nunavut.

Sitka recently announced a 43-101 compliant Initial Mineral Resource Estimate of 1,340,000 ounces of gold(1) beginning at surface and grading 0.68 g/t (see news release dated January 19, 2023). A resource expansion diamond drilling program is currently underway.

The Company is also planning additional drilling at its Alpha Gold Property in Nevada where a new Carlin-type gold system was recently discovered. The Company is focused on vectoring towards the high-grade core of this newly discovered system, which is located in the Cortez Trend just 40 km southeast of the Cortez Mine Complex of Barrick/Newmont, and plans for a 2023 drilling program at Alpha are currently underway.

(1) Simpson, R. January 19, 2023. Clear Creek Property, RC Gold Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report, Dawson Mining District, Yukon Territory.

Upcoming Events

Sitka Gold will be attending and/or presenting at the following events:

Dawson Gold Show, Dawson City, Yukon: May 19 - 20, 2023

TakeStock Calgary Capital Event, Calgary, AB: July 5, 2023

YMA Property Tours, Dawson City, Yukon: July 16-22, 2023

Precious Metals Summit, Beaver Creek, Colorado: September 12 - 15, 2023

All events are subject to change.

The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Cor Coe, P.Geo., Director and CEO of the Company, and a Qualified Person (QP) as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

SITKA GOLD CORP.

"Donald Penner"

President and Director

Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and information are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "appear", "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "approximate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe", "would" and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. These include, but are not limited to, the expected timing and terms of the private placement, use of proceeds, anticipated work program, required approvals in connection with the work program and the ability to obtain such approvals. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, timelines and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws or the CSE. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Sitka Gold Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Sitka Gold Corp.)

Cision

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SOURCE Sitka Gold Corp.
SINGAPORE, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Six Four Coffee, a premium coffee roastery based in Singapore, is proud to announce its collaboration with Anchor Food Professionals, one of the world's leading dairy experts which creates fit-for-purpose products and solutions for foodservice professionals in over 50 countries. The collaboration is set to produce a new, exclusive recipe featuring coffee with cream cheese.

Six Four Coffee is known for its commitment to quality coffee, carefully sourced and roasted weekly in small batches to bring out the unique flavours of each bean. Recently, Six Four Coffee also announced its expansion to Malaysia . Anchor Food Professionals, on the other hand, specialises in creating exceptional dairy products that are tailored for the foodservice industry, designed to meet the high demands of performance and consistency day in and day out. Anchor Food Professionals offers an extensive range of premium dairy products, and also provides tailored recipes and training programs. Its Malaysia branch offers a wide range of high-quality dairy products to foodservice and hospitality customers, including butter, cheese, cream, and milk powders, which are widely utilised by chefs for various culinary applications, from baking and pastries to savoury dishes and desserts.

Together, these two brands are bringing their expertise and passion to create a new coffee experience that is sure to delight coffee lovers and foodies alike. The new recipe will feature Six Four Coffee's signature coffee house blend, paired with Anchor Food Professionals' rich and decadent cream cheese.

"We are delighted to partner with Anchor Food Professionals to create this exciting new recipe, and will be looking to bring this to our retail partners who are keen to add cream cheese latte to their menus" said James Kee, the founder of Six Four Coffee. "We believe that coffee and cream cheese are the perfect combination, and we can't wait to share this with more coffee lovers".

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To commemorate the launch of the new cream cheese latte recipe and collaboration, Six Four Coffee and Anchor Food Professionals are excited to host a giveaway on Facebook and Instagram. The promotion will give 12 lucky winners the chance to try the new coffee and cream cheese recipe for themselves.

To learn more about Six Four Coffee, including their products and services, please click here . Follow their Facebook page and Instagram for coffee selection and roastery tips, and the latest product offers!

To learn more about Anchor Food Professionals, including their products and services, please click here .

About Six Four Coffee

Six Four signifies the visual acuity of pilots, and the foresight of the company. Starting from Singapore and growing outwards to the rest of Asia and beyond, Six Four Coffee's founder James Kee started his career as a military helicopter pilot. Across the 15 years of flying, James had the opportunity to travel to different parts of the world and was introduced to various coffee cultures. After learning the art of coffee brewing and roasting overseas, James decided to venture into the F&B industry with just his pure passion for coffee.

Today, Six Four Coffee is an established coffee roaster with partners in Mainland China, Malaysia, Myanmar, Spain and Taiwan carrying reputable brands of espresso machines, coffee grinders, tools and accessories.

Cision

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SOURCE Six Four Coffee
University of Illinois Gies College of Business offers both a residential and online Master of Science in Management

While the United States is considered home to the most of the worlds top MBA programs, Europe has long had the perceived edge when it comes to the other general graduate business degree: the master in management. In what is currently the only ranking of MiMs by a major news outlet, U.S. programs are all but shut out year after year  and while we can point to U.S. schools refusal to participate in The Financial Times annual list for the annual omissions, it remains indisputably true that deep-seated Europe-centrism on the part of the UK-based magazine and in the world of graduate business education has dampened any outcry against the oversight.

U.S. MiMs are due for a serious appraisal, and Poets&Quants is giving it to them, beginning with this series on the best and most innovative MiM programs in the U.S. and continuing later this year with our first master in management ranking. Stay tuned!

The inaugural profile to launch this new series is a MiM at one of the most exciting business schools in the country: Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Gies Master of Science in Management encompasses both residential and online programs; the former is a 9-month STEM-designated program, and the latter, fully online, can be finished anywhere between one and five years.

Fast Stats MSM iMSM Enrollment 88 663 Length of Program 9 months 12-60 months Average Age 22 32 % Women 56% 43% % International 43% 31% GMAT/GRE Required No No Tuition $33,772 $11,520 Placement Rates 98% N/A

*iMSM Data: Gies Online Student Enrollments / iMSM / Fall 2022

HALLMARKS OF THE GIES MSM & iMSM

Distinct aspects of Gies MSM program include elite career advising team support that complements a professional development/career course in the program, as well as two client consulting experiences built into the curriculum that feature actual companies, giving students the opportunity to practice teamwork and learn what its like to work with clients in the real world. These experiential elements are not extracurricular and offer an opportunity to access all Illinois campus resources, labs, and student groups.

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The Gies MSM offers foundational knowledge in eight core business areas and a wide variety of electives to choose from within Gies and the entire campus, all taking place in just two semesters. New concentrations in marketing and organizational leadership will be coming to the program soon, joining tracks in data analytics, finance, management, and global business.

The chief hallmark of the iMSM is its flexibility, allowing students to take as long as 60 months to complete all requirements. The highly diverse Gies iMSM was designed for practical application with 24 credit hours of core/required courses in business fundamentals and 12 credit hours of electives to allow customization of the degree. Students have opportunities for immersions (both virtual and in person) and networking opportunities with experienced professionals from across the globe. Moreover, students in the iMSM have the ability to stack a 12-credit-hour graduate certificate into the degree  for example, by completing a three-course sequence in Strategic Leadership & Management, they can apply all 12 credit hours toward the iMSM, meaning they would immediately be 33% done. The Gies iMSMs high flexibility is matched by its impressive affordability: It costs less than $12K, about one-third the cost of the residential MSM. The program also offers a performance-based admissions track program for those who may not meet the minimum admission criteria.

Both the MSM and iMSM boast top faculty, diverse class profiles, stackability into Gies celebrated iMBA, and optional GMAT admissions.

STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES

After earning a bachelors degree in communications from the University of Illinois, Kashief King is following the guidance of one of his undergrad professors and working toward his MSM at the Gies College of Business.

Gies MSM student Kashief King: Everything we have learned is applicable to real life. I see myself using it today, and Im not even finished yet

Like many MSM students, King didnt have a particular career goal in mind, but he saw the value in a general management education.

I knew I had a fifth year of eligibility that I could take, and (my) professor (Hayden) Noel recommended the MSM, says King, a native of Trinidad & Tobago who ran track and field for Illinois. Its really a universal degree that is applicable to so many industries. Everyone needs leaders and managers. When I am finished with track and field, I will have the managerial knowledge to manage my money, know what to invest in, and understand what types of business I can start.

So far, he adds, his experience in the MSM program has been exactly what he had hoped for.

The MSM program has been great, King says. Everything we have learned is applicable to real life. I see myself using it today, and Im not even finished yet. This program is so effective and so helpful putting us in a best situation to be better leaders and managers.

Jackie Ovassapian, graduate of the Gies MSM

Im really not stuck in any one field. I like my job, I like what I do, but if I didnt, I have other skills that I can take because of the MSM program and hands-on hard skills that I can put on a resume and hand to someone, or I have a lot of soft skills too that I can talk to someone, make a connection and try to move. And that all came from the MSM.

For me, I knew, like I said, I had the theater skills and knowledge, and I had some of this human connection knowledge from psychology, but I didnt have the business acumen, the accounting skills, anything like that, that I really needed to be where I want to be. I always knew I wanted to be in management and I didnt have those skills. So for me, when looking at the skills I needed, the MSM put it all in front of me on a webpage.

I was like, Oh, I need that one. I need that one. I need that one. Great. One of the biggest things was I enjoyed going to class with my cohort because it was such a group-based program. Knowing everyone in my classes made it a lot easier to learn because we didnt have to spend time getting to know each other. It was like, Oh, Danny, I was on this project with you. Nick, I was on this project with you. Here, we already know our strengths. So we were kind of able to learn the way you do in a work environment, which was really nice.

From the faculty side of things, they were really, really supportive. And Im not just saying that. I had faculty who spent hours on the phone with me during my job search, both with offers, with interviews, good times and bad, supporting me through it, making sure I was successful at the end of the program. And I think that made all the difference in where I landed and how I feel about the program at large, because I was never on my own unless I really wanted to be.

Kevin Davis, graduate of the Gies iMSM

I have a background in marketing and was looking for a graduate program that would allow me to advance my skills in that discipline. But I also wanted to broaden my business knowledge across areas like organizational strategy, accounting, and process management. I researched MBA programs and graduate programs in marketing, and then I heard about the Master of Science and Management program at the University of Illinois Gies College of Business. The iMSM perfectly aligned with my interests in strategic management and gave me lots of flexibility with my demanding work schedule.

The Gies online program was a great fit for me and exceeded my expectations in terms of the level of engagement with faculty, the strong connections with talent and peers, and the relevance of the coursework. In fact, 30 days after completing my degree, I received a promotion and I know it was a result of what I learned in the program.

Luis Illanes, iMSM student

Im a senior network engineer with a company in Boston, but I work remotely from my home, Bolivia. A year ago, I was looking to further define my career path and started researching online degree programs that would help deepen my leadership skills and give me a broader sense of management relations. I knew Illinois was a great university, and I was immediately drawn to the Masters in Management program at the Gies College of Business.

The iMSM has been a great choice for lots of reason. The curriculum is very pragmatic and relevant, and it is delivered in a highly interactive way by faculty who are experts in their field. And I could take that content, I used it immediately in my work, managing a team and advancing the organization.

The Gies iMSM is also an extremely flexible program that can accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. In my cohort alone, there were experienced and talented managers and directors from all over the world in a variety of industries with a variety of backgrounds that broadened the experience for all of us. Finally, being a scholarship recipient was a key driver for me, and also an evidence of the college commitment to give access to high quality education.

See the next page for a Q&A about the Illinois Gies College of Business MSM and iMSM programs with Nerissa Brown, associate dean of graduate programs and professor of accountancy.

Q&A with Nerissa Brown, associate dean of graduate programs and professor of accountancy at Gies College of Business

Nerissa Brown, associate dean of graduate programs and professor of accountancy at Gies College of Business: The ability to collaborate is key in any management program, and we look for students who are going to be great team members. A demonstrated ability to work well with others is paramount

P&Q: How is this program different from other MiMs on the market today?

Nerissa Brown: One area in which we provide a unique and important benefit is that we offer the option to stack your masters in management into our online MBA. We recognize that right now a masters in management might be all someone wants, but that later in their career, they think an MBA would be beneficial. Upon completion of a Gies MSM, learners can apply those 36 credit hours toward our 72-credit-hour online MBA, and they will already be halfway done!

We also offer the flexibility for learners to choose a residential or online option. The online degree, or iMSM, offers the benefits of flexibility, highly engaging online classes with expert faculty, and a diversity of peers that includes working professionals living all around the world. Our on-campus MSM is believed to be the only one on the market with two built-in experiential/client consulting projects within a one-year timeline.

Learners also have the ability to customize their study plan with foundational classes in over nine different areas and then select from a flexible set of specializations and electives either in business or other interest areas  not an entirely lockstep curriculum like most other MiMs.

What exactly are you looking for in a candidate/applicant?

We are looking for well-rounded applicants with or without a professional or educational business background. Those individuals with some work experience who are new to business or looking to transition into management roles are a great fit for the online iMSM. Those who can reflect on their own professional success and failures tend to excel in the admissions interview process.

The on-campus MSM is designed for those coming from a non-business education background with some or no work experience. As a full-time program, it can be perfect for a new graduate just finishing their undergraduate career or for someone who wants to pivot their career after a couple years in the workforce.

What are three or four things that are really core to your program, and how can an applicant best make his or her application express those things?

The ability to collaborate is key in any management program, and we look for students who are going to be great team members. A demonstrated ability to work well with others is paramount. We highly recommend that this experience is featured in your personal statement and/or reference letters as well as discussed in your interview.

Further, our programs seek out learners who are open-minded and who are passionate about exploring and applying new business concepts to their future or existing career fields.

In what ways can a Master in Management provide an advantage over an MBA?

A masters in management is typically shorter and more cost-efficient, which can lead to a faster return on investment. With this shorter program, learners will gain a solid foundation in management that can be leveraged quickly to transition to a business career or a leadership role.

Also, depending on your industry and your immediate goals, the MSM coursework may be all you need to start or elevate your business career, while preparing you to complete advanced MBA coursework at a later date. With the Gies program, the MSM coursework is fully stackable into our online MBA program. So MSM graduates can always come back and apply their credits toward the MBA!

What are some impressions of your program that youd like to dispel, and what are some things about the curriculum and community that youd like more people to know about?

The MSM and iMSM are great options for learners with a non-business background as well as early career and seasoned professionals who are seeking to move to that next career level. You dont need any prerequisites for the coursework in our on-campus and online programs, and it is okay if youve never taken a class related to business. The Gies MSM is fully immersive and designed to help you reach your career goals, whether thats a traditional business path, starting your own business, or just gaining some business knowledge.

Our programs offer an incredibly diverse experience, both on-campus and online, and leads to a diversity of thought in classroom and group discussions. Our on-campus program offers unique experiential learning opportunities and the ability to customize your study plan and work with a dedicated team of Gies career advisors. The online iMSM curriculum is broad by design and versatile to fit the needs of both new and seasoned professionals.

One notion we would love to dispel is the idea that online learning is of lower quality and less engaging than on-campus learning. Actually that could not be further from the truth. Gies offers highly engaging online courses with live class sessions, virtual office hours, and expert faculty who truly care about your success. Online learning also offers the ability to engage with peers from across the globe and in a variety of different industries and levels in their careers.

DONT MISS RANKING THE BEST MASTER IN MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS and NO SURPRISE: SWISS SCHOOL TOPS FTS 2022 MASTER IN MANAGEMENT RANKING AGAIN

The post Spotlight On U.S. MiMs: The Master Of Science In Management At Gies College Of Business appeared first on Poets&Quants.
Dresner Partners

Stephen C. Tardio Photo

Stephen C. Tardio, Managing Director, Dresner Partners Investment Banking

CHICAGO, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dresner Partners, an award-winning, FINRA-registered middle-market investment bank and Mergers Alliance member firm, is pleased to announce that Stephen C. Tardio has joined the firm as Managing Director. As a senior middle-market investment banker focused on deal origination, transaction execution and executive-level relationship management, Mr. Tardio brings broad consumer and packaging industry experience to the firm including coverage in health, wellness, and nutrition; food and beverage; hobby and leisure; discretionary durables; and consumer-linked print and packaging markets. During his 27-year career, he has completed transactions exceeding $1.5 billion in aggregate value.



Prior to joining Dresner Partners, Mr. Tardio served as Managing Director and Head of the Consumer Industry Practice for EdgePoint Capital in Cleveland, Ohio.

Previously, Mr. Tardio also served as President of HT Capital Securities in New York, and Managing Director and Head of the Cleveland and Chicago offices, as well as Director in New York for HT Capital Advisors. He also served in executive and managerial roles for Hill Thompson Capital Markets and Andersen Consulting.

Commenting on hiring of Mr. Tardio, Steven M. Dresner, President of Dresner Partners said, We are very pleased to welcome Stephen Tardio to the firm. His diverse transaction experience and expertise in the consumer sector, along with his presence in Cleveland, make him a valuable addition to our consumer team.

Stephen Tardio added, Im excited to collaborate with my new colleagues at Dresner Partners to deliver the best possible outcomes for clients. The depth and breadth of Dresner Partners services, combined with its strong domestic and international presence in many industry verticals, will provide me with an excellent platform to engage my network.

Mr. Tardio received his Master of Business Administration in Finance from Duke Universitys Fuqua School of Business and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Illinois. He holds numerous licenses including Series 7, Series 24, Series 63, Series 79, and Series 99, and has completed several executive education programs.

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About Dresner Partners

Dresner is an award-winning, FINRA-registered middle-market investment bank headquartered in Chicago, with professionals located in New York, Cleveland, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, and Palo Alto. For more than 30 years, Dresner Partners has provided financial advisory services to middle-market companies throughout the world including merger and acquisitions advisory, institutional private placements of debt and equity, financial restructuring, valuations, and strategic consulting services. Dresner Partners has extensive international and cross-border transaction experience and is a member of Mergers Alliance, one of the worlds leading global mergers and acquisitions partnerships focused on the middle market. An affiliated company, Dresner Corporate Services, is a strategic communications firm specializing in public relations, investor relations and corporate development. More information is available at www.dresnerpartners.com. You can also follow Dresner Partners on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DresnerPartners.

Media Contact:

David Gutierrez, Head of PR, IR and Corp. Dev., (312) 780-7204, dgutierrez@dresnerco.com

For Transaction Related Inquiries

Steven M. Dresner, President, (312) 493-5701, sdresner@dresnerco.com

Stephen C. Tardio, Managing Director, (216) 202-6002, stardio@dresnerco.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6daf6a7e-70fa-4ac9-853d-4dfc9778709f




The Brainy Insights

The surge in the demand and strategies for better handling substantial data-related challenges and the growing use of smarm intelligence-powered drones etc., in the defence and military sector is fueling the growth of the swarm intelligence market.

Newark, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As per the report published by The Brainy Insights, the global Swarm Intelligence market is expected to grow from USD 21.72 Million in 2022 to USD 447.53 Million by 2032, at a CAGR of 35.33% during the forecast period 2023-2032.



Get a sample of the report from: https://www.thebrainyinsights.com/enquiry/sample-request/13446



Swarm Intelligence technology is like many people working on a platform and trying to accomplish a common objective on a big scale; it enhances human group decisions and helps predict occurrences. Many organizations all across the world are already exploring this technology. For instance, Enswarm, a startup company in the UK, uses swarm technologies for recruiting and employment decisions. Similarly, Swarm.fund uses this technology with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin to develop a new fundraising model. This AI-powered technology is also getting used in diagnosing medical conditions. The medical community is planning to use smarms of nanobots for the precision delivery of drugs, targeting toxins, microsurgery and biological sensors. Also, there are many benefits of swarm intelligence for financial intelligence. It helps in predicting the performance of the market. By using the collective intelligence of the group, an algorithm is used for analyzing financial data and forecasting future market behaviour.



Competitive Strategy



To enhance their market position in the global Swarm Intelligence market, the key players are now focusing on adopting the strategies such as product innovations, mergers & acquisitions, recent developments, joint ventures, collaborations, and partnerships.



 In December 2021: Vanora Robots, an India-based robotics start-up, developed a home automation product using swarm intelligence technology. The organization has designed a switch called Hunch which learns the behaviour of many users and can differentiate between them. For instance, when the person switches off the fans and lights in the school for three days, Hunch understands the routine, and when the following day person switches off the third switch, it asks whether the remaining light needs to be switched off or not. There is a broad range of applications for such novel technology.



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For more information in the analysis of this report, visit: https://www.thebrainyinsights.com/report/swarm-intelligence-market-13446



Market Growth & Trends



Swarm intelligence is broadly used in drones and robotics, with agents like sonar, radar and cameras that collect data and information. The surge in the demand and strategies for better handling substantial data-related challenges and the growing use of smarm intelligence-powered drones etc., in the defence and military sector is fueling the growth of the swarm intelligence market. Swarm intelligence helps build a realistic and practical approach for performing the needed goal of locating and striking the target. For instance, based on one of the studies, the total sales of industrial robots globally increased by 29% and reached 380,550 units in 2017. Similarly, in the US, drones were anticipated to reach more than 7 million by 2020. In the telecommunication sector, each call goes through several intermediate nodes, which leads to congestion. The use of digital ants can be sent to uncongested networks, which helps the telecom centre agents to divert traffic and avoid delays. Many space agencies are exploring this technology; for instance, the European Space Agency for self-assembly and interferometry is working on the orbital swarm. Likewise, NASA is working on using swarm technology for planetary exploration.



Enquire before purchasing this report at: https://www.thebrainyinsights.com/enquiry/buying-inquiry/13446

Key Findings



 In 2022, the optimization segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 41.34% and market revenue of USD 8.98 Million.

The capability segment is divided into optimization, clustering, scheduling and routing. In 2022, the optimization segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 41.34% and market revenue of USD 8.98 Million. Swarm intelligence is a type of AI based on the collective behaviour of a decentralized, self-organized system. It is broadly used for analyzing large volumes of data and producing optimal solutions to the complex problems.



 In 2022, the robotics segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 45.68% and market revenue of USD 9.92 Million.

The application segment is divided into robotics, drones and human swarming. In 2022, the robotics segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 45.68% and market revenue of USD 9.92 Million. This factor is because of the growing use of swarm robots in the industries like automotive and agriculture.



 In 2022, the robotics & automation segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 48.88% and market revenue of USD 10.62 Million.



The end user segment is divided into transportation & logistics, robotics & automation, healthcare, retail & e-commerce and others. In 2022, the robotics & automation segment dominated the market with the largest market share of 48.88% and market revenue of USD 10.62 Million. Many automated models use swarm intelligence-optimized techniques and are used for several applications.



Regional Segment Analysis of the Swarm Intelligence Market:



 North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)

 Europe (Germany, France, 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)



The North America region occurred as the largest market for the global Swarm Intelligence industry, with a market share of 41.11% and a market value of around USD 8.93 Million in 2022. Based on one of the studies in 2017, the US contributing more than USD 3 million to the global swarm intelligence market. Moreover, the US has the highest military budget, and they are introducing swarm robots that would change how it is fought. The US is also testing interconnected, cooperative drones capable of competing to beat adversaries.



Key players operating in the global Swarm Intelligence market are:



 Power-Blox AG

 Sentien Robotics, LLC

 Apium Swarm Robotics

 Swarm Technology

 ConvergentAI, Inc.

 Mobileye (Intel)

 Continental AG

 Valutico

 Robert Bosch GmbH

 Unanimous AI



This study forecasts revenue and volume at global, regional, and country levels from 2019 to 2032. The Brainy Insights has segmented the global Swarm Intelligence market based on below mentioned segments:



Global Swarm Intelligence Market by Capability:



 Optimization

 Clustering

 Scheduling

 Routing



Global Swarm Intelligence Market by Application:



 Robotics

 Drones

 Human Swarming



Global Swarm Intelligence Market by End User:



 Transportation & Logistics

 Robotics & Automation

 Healthcare

 Retail & e-Commerce

 Others



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About the report:



The global Swarm Intelligence market is analysed based on value (USD Million). All the segments have been analysed on global, regional and country basis. The study includes the analysis of more than 30 countries for each segment. The report offers in-depth analysis of driving factors, opportunities, restraints, and challenges for gaining the key insight of the market. The study includes porters five forces model, attractiveness analysis, raw material analysis, supply, demand analysis, competitor position grid analysis, distribution and marketing channels analysis.



About The Brainy Insights:



The Brainy Insights is a market research company, aimed at providing actionable insights through data analytics to companies to improve their business acumen. We have a robust forecasting and estimation model to meet the clients' objectives of high-quality output within a short span of time. We provide both customized (clients' specific) and syndicate reports. Our repository of syndicate reports is diverse across all the categories and sub-categories across domains. Our customized solutions are tailored to meet the clients' requirements whether they are looking to expand or planning to launch a new product in the global market.



Contact Us



Avinash D

Head of Business Development

Phone: +1-315-215-1633

Email: sales@thebrainyinsights.com

Web: www.thebrainyinsights.com




The ultra-low-latency communications system for esports and competitive gaming has opened its office in Boston

Boston, MA, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --







SONIX (sonixapp.com), the Swiss startup creating the only ultra-low-latency software and app that meets the demands of pro gamers, announced today its expansion to the United States with an office in Boston. The office is led by co-Founder and CEO Nicolas Abele.

Thanks to the incredible precision and fearlessness of Swiss engineering, SONIX is battle tested and ready for the most competitive esports environments, but will also attract amateurs by its intuitiveness, said Abele. From our new base, we can continue to grow with our European partners and clients while expanding to teams, venues, studios and consumers across the States. The Boston-area offers top engineering talent, a history of innovation especially in the audio sector, and an increasingly robust startup scene. Its also the home of a rapidly growing esports scene with teams, venues and collegiate clubs that are going to love SONIX.

Learn more about SONIX and sign up to try it in beta at sonixapp.com

The new U.S. office is in Arlington, MA, a few blocks away from MIT and Harvard, and the company is growing remotely across the US with employees and representatives in the East and West coasts.

SONIX made its U.S. esports debut in January by providing its technology to the University of North Carolinas Niner Esports Union LAN Party, one of the largest scholastic gaming events in the country.

SONIX reduces lag time by 5x over the top platform typically used in gaming - a difference that even a casual gamer can appreciate - and better quality and user experience than any other technology in the field. Becuase it does not run on servers, SONIX is both more sustainable and more secure than other solutions.

Recently, SONIX achieved time lags as low as 18 milliseconds in a test during a live performance with top level musicians collaborating remotely between the Montreux Jazz Festival and Jazz A Vienne. SONIX is a partner with major EU and U.S. esports teams like LS Esports, as well as in esports education with the Gaming Campus, Frances largest university devoted to the video game business. SONIX is currently nominated for three 2023 AWE Auggie Awards for gaming and collaborative technologies.



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"Our mission is to defeat latency, so gamers can play together and really perform and win as a team, no matter how far apart they are physically, said Olivier Muller, Co-Founder and COO of SONIX. The U.S. market is so important for SONIX because of the huge number of fantastic esport teams. Together with their fans thy represent our first important market."

SONIX Co-Founders Nicolas Abele (Left) and Olivier Muller.

Speaking on SONIXs U.S. debut, UNC Charlotte's Niner Esports President Jorge Sanchez said, With SONIX, our esports athletes and gamers benefited from breakthrough low latency, high-quality audio, and cutting-edge technology to give them the edge they need to succeed in today's competitive environment.

For more information, interviews or demos, contact Owen@thoughtgangmedia.com

About SONIX:

SONIX was created to give gamers the ability to communicate in real time with no perceived latency, just as if they were playing in the same room. Recently Sonix has made deals with France's Gaming Campus -- the country's first video game college -- and a top Swiss esports team to use Sonix. SONIX, formerly known as TYXIT, is a venture-backed startup that is developing more applications for low-latency communication across many fields requiring precise remote collaboration.The Lausanne-based company was named one of the TOP 100 Swiss Startups of 2022. More info at sonixapp.com







CONTACT: owen@thoughtgangmedia.com




Transparency Market Research

Increasing demand from the food industry is a major factor that is anticipated to escalate the Synthetic Wax Market growth

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, , May 09, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc.  The global Synthetic Wax Market stood at US$ 9.7 billion in 2022 and the global market is projected to reach US$ 15.4 billion by 2031. The global industry is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% between 2023 and 2031.



The market value of synthetic wax is increasing due to increasing demand from the packaging industry. Synthetic wax is widely used in the packaging industry due to its superior properties such as water resistance, chemical resistance, and high melting points. The demand for synthetic wax is expected to rise, with the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging materials as it is a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based wax.

Growing demand from the cosmetics industry is another significant factor contributing to the market growth. The cosmetics industry is one of the largest consumers of synthetic wax, as it is widely used in the production of lipsticks, lip balms, and other cosmetic products. The increasing demand for cosmetic products globally is expected to drive the growth of the Synthetic Wax Market.

The market prospects have been driven by factors such as increasing use in the adhesive industry, over the analysis period. Synthetic wax is widely used in the adhesive industry as a binding agent. The growing demand for adhesives in various applications such as packaging, construction, and automotive is anticipated to propel the demand for synthetic wax.

The growth of the Synthetic Wax Market is also rising, owing to increasing demand from the food industry. Synthetic wax is used as a coating material in the food industry to improve the shelf life of food products. The demand for synthetic wax is projected to rise, with the growing demand for packaged and processed food products.

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https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=84492

Market Scope:

Market Revenue USD 9.7 Bn Estimated Value USD 15.4 Bn Growth Rate - CAGR 5.2% Forecast Period 2022 - 2031 No. of Pages 305 Pages Market Segmentation By Type, Application, End-use Regions Covered North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa

Key Findings of the Market Report

By type, polyethylene wax is likely to be most preferred, expected to expand at a significant share, attributed to the growing demand from the packaging industry, rising demand from the cosmetics industry, and increasing demand from the textile industry.

Based on application, the coatings segment holds a significant market share, due to the growing demand from the construction industry, increasing demand from the automotive industry, and, growing demand for eco-friendly coatings.

By end use, paints and coatings are expected to boost the market growth, attributed to factors including the growing demand from the construction industry, increasing demand from the automotive industry, growing demand for eco-friendly coatings



Global Synthetic Wax Market: Growth Drivers

The global Synthetic Wax Market is projected to expand at a steady pace from 2023 to 2031, due to the increasing use in the personal care industry.

Another factor that is projected to augment the market growth includes the increasing technological advancements in the production process.

Additionally, the increasing demand from the candle industry is a major factor that is anticipated to fuel the market prospects in the near future.



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Global Synthetic Wax Market: Regional Landscape

Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the Synthetic Wax Market during the forecast period, attributed to growing demand from end-use industries such as packaging, cosmetics, textiles, among others. The region held 45.3% share in 2022.

Various initiatives and policies from governments, are anticipated to escalate the growth of the regional market over the analysis period.

In China, the government's "Made in China 2025" initiative aims to upgrade the manufacturing industry and promote the development of high-end products. The initiative is expected to drive the demand for advanced materials, including synthetic wax, in the country.



Competitive Landscape

Prominent players in the synthetic wax industry are taking advantage of the rapidly increasing demand for synthetic wax. To further their outreach, players are relying on collaborations, partnerships and acquisitions with existing small, medium and large-scale providers. Some prominent market developments are as follows:

In 2022, Honeywell announced the launch of a new range of synthetic wax products called HONWAX. These wax products are designed to provide improved lubrication, scratch resistance, and release properties in various applications, including plastics, coatings, and adhesives.

In 2021, Sasol launched a new range of Fischer-Tropsch (FT) wax products called FT Wax 310, FT Wax 320, and FT Wax 330. These wax products are designed to provide improved performance in hot melt adhesives, PVC processing, and other applications.

In 2021, Lubrizol launched a new line of synthetic wax products called Carbopol Ultrez 30 Polymer. These wax products are designed to provide rheological control and texture enhancement in various personal care and home care applications.

In 2021, Clariant announced the launch of a new line of sustainable wax products called Licocare RBW Vita. These wax products are based on renewable raw materials and are used in various personal care and home care applications.

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Global Synthetic Wax Market: Segmentation

Type

Polyethylene Wax

Fischer-Tropsch Wax

Polypropylene Wax

Others

Application

Cosmetics

Candles

Coatings

Adhesives

Printing Inks

Others

End-use

Personal Care

Paints & Coatings

Inks

Chemicals

Others



Regions

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Latin America



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Terra Balcanica Resources Corp.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S. NEWSWIRE OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Vancouver, British Columbia, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. (Terra or the Company) (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1) is pleased to announce positive assay results from surface rock chip and soil sampling at its 80.4 km2 Ceovishte license in southern Serbia and closing of the 1st tranche of the previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of units (the Units) for gross proceeds of $404,650 (the Offering).



Highlights

Surface rock sample include concentrations as high as 53.5 g/t Au, 78.6 g/t Ag and 2.47 % Cu with up to 0.39% Co and 0.45% Bi (Table 1);





> 900 m strike length of Au-Ag- As- Bi-Cu-Te anomalism in soil geochemistry defines new target, with soil assays returning up to 2.42 g /t Au (Figure 2);





Mineralization is controlled by potassic altered diorites hosting quartz-chalcopyrite veins with secondar y copper mineralogy at surface (Figure 3) and a gold-bismuth-cobalt rich epithermal assemblage;





Drill-ready with both porphyry and epithermal mineralization visible at collar locations.





Terra Balcanica CEO, Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, commented: Detailed prospecting, rock chip and soil sampling at our Serbian Ceovishte licence not only confirmed the existence of a sizable hydrothermal system responsible for multi-ounce gold assays at surface near the Medjurecje locality but also defined a new, 900-m-wide, topographically depressed, semi-circular gold-silver-copper soil anomaly northeast of the high-grade Au zone that is characterized by potassic altered andesites interpreting by Terras technical team to represent a previously neglected porphyry target. This confirms the potential of our Serbian assets and represents a significant diversification of the Companys polymetallic portfolio already defined by our Viogor Zanik project. It sets the stage for drilling of the shallow high grade gold target later this year.

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The Ceovishte license totals over 80 km2 of highly prospective land for gold and copper exploration in the historic Raska mining district of southern Serbia (Figure1). The license area drapes southern slopes of the Golija Mountain, a part of the well-known Kopaonik metallogenic zone. This area features the Kizevak and Sastavci Pb-Zn-Ag mines including the Karadak deposit, all owned by Adriatic Metals plc. The historical Yugoslav GKZ, non-NI 43-101 compliant resource estimates for Kizevak is 3.9 Mt of ore grading 3.92 % Zn, 2.15 % Pb and 31 g/t Ag categorized according to the Yugoslav A+B+C1 resource nomenclature (www.adriaticmetals-serbia.com/our-projects/adriatic-metals-serbia-sastavci). The Raska mining district also holds the Rudnica Cu-Au porphyry target and is a northerly extension of the partially exploited, world class Trepca Pb-Zn-Ag skarn deposit of the norther Serbian province of Kosovo. Trepca features a non-NI 43-101 compliant resource of 60.5 Mt of ore grading over 8.0 % Pb+Zn and >159 Moz of Ag.

Figure 1. Geological map of the Ceovishte license area in southern Serbia. The black rectangle labelled Figure 2 is Terras primary area of interest within the license. It encapsulates Au-Cu mineralized Neogene volcanic rocks which intruded an ultramafic country rock of the West Vardar Ophiolite. Previous operators conducted work in the south of the Ceovishte license and overlooked the Au-Cu potential of the north where Terra has conducted a successful soil and rock chip sampling campaign and is planning a maiden drilling program in early Q3 of 2023 (click here to view image).

Figure 2. Map displaying Au in soil (ppb), and anomalous Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te signature. Sampling verifies the location of known mineralization and reveals > 900 m strike length of new prospective ground open to the NE. Rock sample IDs can be correlated with results in Table 1. The drill target is labelled where rock chips return up to 53.5 g/t Au and 1.45 % Cu. Note the location of anomalous Au in soil forming an arcuate pattern around the depressed centre, interpreted as possible concentric fractures around a porphyry intrusive which crops out in the south and northwest. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N) (click here to view image).



Geology and Mineralization

The Company is focussed on exploring the overlooked Au-Ag-Cu (Bi-Co) occurrences in the northern extents of the license where Neogene intrusive rocks of intermediate composition are emplaced within ultramafic rocks of the west Vardar Ophiolite Belt. Field observations and microscopy confirms biotite-magnetite-k-feldspar potassic alteration within the diorites, which are observed controlling the distribution of mineralization and are thus inferred as the causative intrusion and target for further exploration. Intrusive contacts and vein-hosted sulphides in the south dip shallowly to the NNE below ultramafic cover into an annular topography low.

Both hypogene sulphide mineralization and supergene oxide zones are present at Ceovishte and returned very encouraging assay results of a well-endowed Au-Ag-Cu system. Quartz-chalcopyrite veins are partially oxidised at surface producing a mixture of malachite, azurite and tenorite (Figure 3) and occur within the same outcrops as quartz-arsenopyrite-bismuthinite veins. Chalcopyrite is also observed finely disseminated within the potassic altered intrusives. Gossans and vuggy silica host the highest Au values up to 53.5 g/t.





Figure 3. Macroscopically observed copper mineralization in samples 103281 and 103276 which returned 1.45 % and 2.47 % Cu, respectively. Mineralization is vein-hosted within potassic altered diorites and comprises quartz, chalcopyrite, malachite, azurite and tenorite (click here to view image).

Mineralized rock samples also return high bismuth and cobalt, which may have been stripped from the ultramafic country rocks by hydrothermal fluids and re-precipitated within the epithermal veins. Ceovishte therefore has characteristics of the 5-element vein (Ag-Bi-Co-Ni-As) style of mineralization.

Sample Easting Northing Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Bi (ppm) Cu (%) Co (ppm) 100851 476500 4815182 53.5 8.7 4490 0.03 12 100838 475554 4816186 0.19 78.6 2 0.01 71 100839 476417 4815188 11.0 10.1 3570 0.14 805 103273 476383 4815204 6.56 1.2 299 0.01 1300 103271 476335 4815157 0.48 1.8 20 0.12 21 103282 476479 4815173 10.95 0.82 299 0.02 3940 103264 476602 4815182 0.09 18.9 6 0.01 5.7 103267 475606 4816196 0.02 0.69 42 0.04 9 103262 475628 4816084 3.09 11.8 480 0.03 336 103269 475605 4816158 0.10 1.7 0.4 - 9 103276 476179 4815987 0.05 10.8 20 2.47 13 103279 476376 4815128 0.39 2.16 5 0.01 27 103280 476383 4815133 3.28 1.42 224 0.01 145 103277 476189 4815997 2.2 0.5 69 0.01 88 103281 476514 4815189 0.16 21.5 144 1.45 50

Table 1. Rock chip locations and assay results for key commodity elements. Samples can be seen with anomalous Au in soil Figure 1. (WGS84/UTM Zone 34N).

Soil Geochemistry

Results from 386 B/C horizon soil samples successfully captured the signature of Au-Cu mineralization at Ceovishte. Two known occurrences were highlighted by the sampling, verifying the Au-Ag-As-Bi-Cu-Te grouping as representing mineralization, with a further 900 m strike length anomaly being generated for follow up in the north of the survey. The newly defined target area returned assays up to 2.42 g/t Au and 424 ppm Cu in soil. This area has not seen rock chip sampling and offers significant exploration upside for extending the footprint of known Au-Cu mineralization.

Elevated commodity and pathfinder elements in soil correlate to a K-Ba-Na element grouping, indicating sub cropping intermediate composition intrusives rather than the ultramafic country rock which has a strong Ni-Co-Cr-Mg signature. Soil anomalism generates an annular pattern which surrounds a central topographic depression with enclosing ridges of ultramafic rock. This correlation could indicate concentric and ring radial fractures, which have formed around a central porphyry intrusive and focussed hydrothermal fluid flow. Potassic altered, Au-Cu mineralized diorite intrusives have been observed and sampled at both the southern and northern extents of this annular feature, with over 900 m of untested strike length in the northeast.

Future Exploration Program

The norther Ceovishte licence is drill-ready with pad locations designed to test the depth extensions of the Au-Cu mineralization sampled on surface. Following positive results in maiden drilling geophysics will be considered to guide a larger phase II drilling program.

Follow up of the anomalous soil geochemistry will be undertaken in the northeast through geological/alteration mapping and rock chip assay. This will generate a pipeline of targets for drill testing. Further soil sampling will be completed in the northeast where the anomaly remains open to define its full spatial extent.

1st Tranche Private Placement Financing Closed

The Company issued an aggregate of 4,760,586 Units at a price of $0.085 per Unit for gross proceeds of $404,650 pursuant to the Offering announced on April 4th, 2023. Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a Common Share) and one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.13 until May 5th, 2026.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for working capital and to fund the Phase II drilling across its portfolio of properties. Finders fees in the amount of $8,057 were paid.

Giulio Bonifacio, Chair of the board of directors, Steven Latimer, a director, and Kim Oishi, a director (the Insiders) purchased 1,194,117 Units as part of the Offering. The issuance of the Units to the Insiders constitutes a "related party transaction" as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Company is relying on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, as the securities do not represent more than 25% of the Companys market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. The participation by Insiders in the Offering was approved by directors of the Company who are independent in connection with such transactions.

Pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws, all securities issued and issuable in connection with the closing of the Private Placement will be subject to a four (4) month hold period ending September 6th, 2023.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell 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 any U.S. person or any person in the United States, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. United States and U.S. Person are as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act.

QAQC

Representative rock samples were taken from surface outcrops and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia for sample preparation and subsequent wet chemical analysis at the Loughrea laboratory in Ireland, and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certified test facility. Sample preparation PREP-31BY method involved crushing the core to a 70% fraction less than 2 mm in size, rotary split 1.0 kg and pulverizing the split to greater than 85% passing 75 microns. Silver and base metals were analysed by ICP MS after a four-acid digest (ME-MS61). Gold was assayed by 30g fire assay with ICP AES finish (Au-ICP21). Over limit samples for base metals were re-analysed by the four-acid digest ICP-AES analyses termed ME-OG62. Over-limit gold analysis was conducted by fire assay and gravimetric finish (Au-GRA21). Soil samples were taken in the B/C horizon and sent to ALS Bor, Serbia. Analysis was undertaken after dry screening to 180 microns by method AuME-TL44 an aqua regia digest followed by ICP analysis on a 50g sample. Over-assays were conducted by the OG-46 (base metals) and Au-AROR44 (gold) techniques.

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 amiskovic@terrabresources.com, 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.




Even when a business is losing money, it's possible for shareholders to make money if they buy a good business at the right price. For example, although Amazon.com made losses for many years after listing, if you had bought and held the shares since 1999, you would have made a fortune. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com?

So should Tesoro Gold (ASX:TSO) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purposes of this article, cash burn is the annual rate at which an unprofitable company spends cash to fund its growth; its negative free cash flow. The first step is to compare its cash burn with its cash reserves, to give us its 'cash runway'.

View our latest analysis for Tesoro Gold

How Long Is Tesoro Gold's Cash Runway?

A company's cash runway is the amount of time it would take to burn through its cash reserves at its current cash burn rate. When Tesoro Gold last reported its balance sheet in December 2022, it had zero debt and cash worth AU$7.2m. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through AU$13m. That means it had a cash runway of around 7 months as of December 2022. To be frank, this kind of short runway puts us on edge, as it indicates the company must reduce its cash burn significantly, or else raise cash imminently. The image below shows how its cash balance has been changing over the last few years.

How Is Tesoro Gold's Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

Tesoro Gold didn't record any revenue over the last year, indicating that it's an early stage company still developing its business. So while we can't look to sales to understand growth, we can look at how the cash burn is changing to understand how expenditure is trending over time. Given the length of the cash runway, we'd interpret the 38% reduction in cash burn, in twelve months, as prudent if not necessary for capital preservation. Tesoro Gold makes us a little nervous due to its lack of substantial operating revenue. So we'd generally prefer stocks from this list of stocks that have analysts forecasting growth.

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How Easily Can Tesoro Gold Raise Cash?

While Tesoro Gold is showing a solid reduction in its cash burn, it's still worth considering how easily it could raise more cash, even just to fuel faster growth. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Commonly, a business will sell new shares in itself to raise cash and drive growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

Since it has a market capitalisation of AU$43m, Tesoro Gold's AU$13m in cash burn equates to about 30% of its market value. That's fairly notable cash burn, so if the company had to sell shares to cover the cost of another year's operations, shareholders would suffer some costly dilution.

Is Tesoro Gold's Cash Burn A Worry?

Even though its cash runway makes us a little nervous, we are compelled to mention that we thought Tesoro Gold's cash burn reduction was relatively promising. After looking at that range of measures, we think shareholders should be extremely attentive to how the company is using its cash, as the cash burn makes us uncomfortable. On another note, we conducted an in-depth investigation of the company, and identified 6 warning signs for Tesoro Gold (4 don't sit too well with us!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

Of course Tesoro Gold may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying.

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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After causing long wait times for thousands of trucks, Texas officials have reduced the number of inspections for tractor-trailers arriving from Mexico at two border crossings, according to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official.

Gov. Greg Abbotts increased inspections of trucks, which began last Tuesday, created wait times of up to 26 hours for commercial traffic at Veterans International Bridge in Brownsville and the Free Trade International Bridge in the town of Los Indios.

The inspections are being carried out by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Texas officials have reduced the number of inspections for tractor-trailers arriving from Mexico at Veterans International Bridge in Brownsville. (Photo: U.S. Customs and Border Protection)

The safety inspections have not ended completely. DPS conducts these safety exams, but at a small percentage each day, Armando Taboada, assistant director of field operations at CBPs Laredo Field Office, said in an email to FreightWaves. The issue we had is that they were inspecting 100% [of trucks].

Taboada said CBP was able to keep normal hours of operation for the commercial facilities at both the Veterans and Los Indios bridges last week, despite the disruption caused by the DPS inspections.

The 100% has ended and only a very small percentage of trucks are being inspected which does not affect our exit gates from the import lot in order for trucks to flow through, Taboada said.





Texas DPS did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Normally, CBP handles about 1,100 trucks a day at Veterans International Bridge. CBP officials said last week they were processing about 400 northbound trucks a day from Mexico because of the slowdowns caused by the DPS inspections.

The DPS inspections are in addition to those conducted by CBP, which already inspects a percentage of commercial and passenger vehicles crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.

The DPS inspections have drawn criticism from state officials, as well as members of the cross-border trade community.

U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, has been critical of DPS for the inspections, saying they caused unnecessary delays.

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Its all show because they cannot open the trucks, Cuellar told Border Report. They can only check for brakes, they can only check for windshield wipers and stuff. They cannot open the cargo trailers.

Javier Saldivar, a representative for Mexicos national trucking chamber of commerce (CANACAR), estimated that the disruption caused by the DPS inspections has caused significant economic losses.

They check truck by truck, one by one at 100%, causing traffic jams of lines of up to 16 miles, lines of operators of up to 27 hours, which has caused millions in losses, Saldivar said at a press conference Friday, according to Periodico Contacto.

Watch: Reefer volumes off to sluggish start in May.

Click for more FreightWaves articles by Noi Mahoney.

More articles by Noi Mahoney

US lifting vaccine mandate at Canadian, Mexican borders

Borderlands: AIs rising impact on cross-border trade focus of new report

Truck inspections causing long wait times at Texas border bridges

The post Texas scales back border truck inspections amid backlog appeared first on FreightWaves.
The 32nd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is set to take place from May 22-28 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), gathering a line-up of celebrated authors, thought leaders and publishers from around the world.



The event will showcase the distinct literary and cultural heritage of the Middle East, while strengthening ties between the Arab and international publishing communities.



Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), which is part of the Department of Culture and Tourism  Abu Dhabi, this year's book fair will focus on sustainability, in line with the UAE's declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability. Visitors can look forward to an array of initiatives, events and seminars that will highlight the best global sustainability practices in the publishing industry.



As a leading literary event in the Arab world, the fair offers a vital platform for global dialogue featuring talks by distinguished Arab and international speakers, including renowned authors, artists, academics and digital content creators. The fair will cater to a diverse audience, ranging from professionals to consumers and families, with five primary programme types: cultural, creative arts, children and youth, specialised professional and partner programmes.



Throughout the week, attendees can participate in a range of cultural sessions such as panel discussions, debates, seminars, and poetry evenings featuring famous personalities from the worlds of thought, literature and media. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet their favourite authors and have their books signed.  TradeArabia News Service
Q1 2023 YUPELRI  (revefenacin) net sales of $47.0 million, recognized by Viatris, up 8% from Q1 2022 1

Q1 2023 YUPELRI retail new patient starts and total prescriptions up 61% and 29%, respectively, year-over-year, reaching all-time highs 2

CYPRESS Phase 3 study of ampreloxetine recruiting; anticipate completing enrollment during H2 2024

On track to complete $325 million capital return program by year-end; completed $215 million of share repurchases from inception through 4/30/23

Jim Kelly, Managing Director at Weiss Asset Management, joins Board of Directors

DUBLIN, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Theravance Biopharma, Inc. ("Theravance Biopharma" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: TBPH) today announced financial and operational results for the first quarter of 2023.

Theravance Biopharma Logo (PRNewsfoto/Theravance Biopharma, Inc.)

"Through the beginning of 2023, we sharpened our commercial and development focus at Theravance, with YUPELRI retail new patient starts growing 61% and achieving a sixth consecutive quarter of record highs. We also delivered an important clinical milestone, having initiated enrollment for CYPRESS, our Phase 3 study for ampreloxetine, since our last update", said Rick E Winningham, Chief Executive Officer. "With the transformation we began nearly two years ago largely completed, we are well positioned to drive an acceleration in YUPELRI performance made possible by its unique value proposition to COPD patients in both the hospital and community settings. We are determined to deliver on this opportunity, while returning substantial capital to shareholders and driving our ampreloxetine study to completion."

"For MSA patients suffering with symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH), ampreloxetine has the potential to improve symptoms which impact their quality of life", said Richard Graham, SVP and Head of R&D. "CYPRESS is a focused Phase 3 study designed to confirm the clinical improvements ampreloxetine has demonstrated in MSA patients with symptomatic nOH in Study 0170. We plan to complete enrollment in CYPRESS during the second half of 2024 and provide guidance on timing for top-line results as enrollment progresses."

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Quarterly Highlights

YUPELRI  (revefenacin) inhalation solution, the first and only once-daily, nebulized bronchodilator approved in the US for the maintenance treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), achieved $47.0 million Q1 2023 sales, increasing 8% year-over-year (Q1 2023 vs Q1 2022) 1 and increased its share of the long-acting nebulized COPD market to 27.7% through January 2023, up from 27.1% in Q4 2022. The PIFR-2 study remains on track for completion during the second half of 2023.





Ampreloxetine , an investigational, once-daily norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor in development for the treatment of symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) in patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA). The unique benefits of ampreloxetine treatment reported from Study 0170 included an increase in norepinephrine levels, a favorable impact on blood pressure, clinically meaningful and durable symptom improvements, and no signal for supine hypertension. The Company presented findings at three scientific sessions at the 2022 American Autonomic Society meeting. 3 Theravance has aligned with the FDA on a new Phase 3 study (CYPRESS) to support a full approval, which was initiated in Q1 2023 and is actively recruiting.





$325 Million Return of Capital Program:

TRELEGY ELLIPTA (first once-daily single inhaler triple therapy for COPD and asthma)

GSK posted first quarter 2023 global net sales of $567 million (up from $454 million, or 25%, from first quarter of 2022).4 Theravance Biopharma is entitled to a milestone payment from Royalty Pharma of $50 million if TRELEGY global net sales are equal to or exceed $2.9 billion5 in 2023, the first of $250 million of potential milestones that can be achieved between 2023 and 2026.

First Quarter Financial Results

Revenue: Total revenue for the first quarter of 2023 was $10.4 million, consisting almost entirely of Viatris collaboration revenue. The Viatris collaboration revenue represents amounts receivable from Viatris and comprises the Company's 35% share of net sales of YUPELRI, as well as its proportionate amount of the total shared costs incurred by the two companies. The non-shared YUPELRI costs incurred by Theravance Biopharma are recorded within operating expenses. While Viatris records the total net sales of YUPELRI within its financial statements, Theravance Biopharma's implied 35% share of net sales of YUPELRI for the first quarter of 2023 was $16.4 million which represents an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Viatris collaboration revenue decreased by $0.3 million in the first quarter compared to the same period in 2022 due primarily to timing of higher Viatris costs incurred.



Total revenue for the first quarter represents a $2.8 million decrease compared to the same period in 2022, primarily due to a $2.5 million non-recurring milestone payment received in the first quarter of 2022 related to the Company's licensing arrangement with Pfizer.





Research and Development (R&D) Expenses: R&D expenses for the first quarter of 2023 were $14.6 million, compared to $23.3 million in the same period in 2022. First quarter R&D expenses included total non-cash share-based compensation of $2.4 million.





Selling, General and Administrative (SG&A) Expenses: SG&A expenses for the first quarter of 2023 were $19.2 million, compared to $17.8 million in the same period in 2022. First quarter SG&A expenses included total non-cash share-based compensation of $4.2 million.





Stock Based Compensation: Share-based compensation expenses for the first quarter of 2023 were $7.0 million, compared to $14.5 million in the same period in 2022. Excluding restructuring-related expenses, share-based compensation expenses were $6.7 million and $10.0 million for the first quarter of 2023 and 2022, respectively. Share-based compensation expenses consisted of $2.4 million for R&D and $4.2 million for SG&A in the first quarter of 2023, compared to $4.5 million and $5.5 million, respectively, in the same period in 2022. The significant reduction in total share-based compensation expenses was primarily driven by our 2021 restructuring, which was substantially completed in early 2022.





Restructuring Expenses and Related Expenses: Restructuring expenses and related expenses for the first quarter of 2023 were $1.6 million compared to $9.3 million in the same period in 2022. These expenses primarily comprised severance costs, termination-related benefits, and share-based compensation expense related to the Company's 2023 strategic actions, announced in February 2023, and the Company's 2021 restructuring announced in September 2021. Cash restructuring expenses related to the 2023 strategic actions were $1.2 million and non-cash restructuring expenses were $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2023. We do not expect any additional employee-related restructuring expenses, including share-based compensation expenses, after the first quarter of 2023.





Net Loss from Operations and Non-GAAP Net Loss (from continuing operations) 6 : Net loss from continuing operations was $22.1 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $40.3 million in the same period in 2022, and non-GAAP net loss from continuing operations was $14.9 million in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $25.2 million in the same period in 2022. Non-GAAP net loss from continuing operations consists of GAAP net income (loss) from operations, excluding share-based compensation expense, non-cash interest expense, and income tax expense (benefit). See the section titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for more information.





Cash Position: Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $260.0 million as of March 31, 2023.

2023 Financial Guidance

Operating Expenses (excluding share-based compensation and one-time restructuring costs) : The Company continues to expect full year 2023 R&D expense of $35 million to $45 million and SG&A expense of $45 million to $55 million.





The Company reaffirms its expectation that it will generate non-GAAP profit in 2H 2023.6

Conference Call and Live Webcast Today at 5:00 pm ET

Theravance Biopharma will hold a conference call and live webcast accompanied by slides today at 5:00 pm ET / 2:00 pm PT / 10:00 pm IST. To participate in the live call by telephone, please register here. Those interested in listening to the conference call live via the internet may do so by visiting Theravance Biopharma's website at www.theravance.com, under the Investors section, Presentations and Events.

A replay of the webcast will be available on Theravance Biopharma's website for 30 days through June 7, 2023.

About Theravance Biopharma

Theravance Biopharma, Inc.'s focus is to deliver Medicines that Make a Difference in people's lives. In pursuit of its purpose, Theravance Biopharma leverages decades of expertise, which has led to the development of FDA-approved YUPELRI (revefenacin) inhalation solution indicated for the maintenance treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Ampreloxetine, its late-stage investigational norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor in development for symptomatic neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, has the potential to be a first in class therapy effective in treating a constellation of cardinal symptoms in multiple system atrophy patients. The Company is committed to creating/driving shareholder value.

For more information, please visit www.theravance.com.

THERAVANCE BIOPHARMA, THERAVANCE, and the Cross/Star logo are registered trademarks of the Theravance Biopharma group of companies (in the U.S. and certain other countries).

YUPELRI is a registered trademark of Mylan Specialty L.P., a Viatris company. Trademarks, trade names or service marks of other companies appearing on this press release are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release will contain certain "forward-looking" statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, statements relating to goals, plans, objectives, expectations and future events. Theravance Biopharma intends such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Examples of such statements include statements relating to: the Company's repurchase of its ordinary shares by way of an open market share repurchase program, the impact of recent headcount reductions in connection with focusing investments in research, the Company's governance policies and plans, the Company's expectations regarding its allocation of resources and maintenance of expenditures, the Company's goals, designs, strategies, plans and objectives, future YUPELRI sales, the ability to provide value to shareholders, the Company's regulatory strategies and timing of clinical studies, possible safety, efficacy or differentiation of our investigational therapy, and contingent payments due to the Company from the sale of the Company's TRELEGY ELLIPTA royalty interests to Royalty Pharma. These statements are based on the current estimates and assumptions of the management of Theravance Biopharma as of the date of this press release and are subject to risks, uncertainties, changes in circumstances, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results of Theravance Biopharma to be materially different from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include, among others, risks related to: whether the milestone thresholds can be achieved, delays or difficulties in commencing, enrolling or completing clinical studies, the potential that results from clinical or non-clinical studies indicate the Company's product candidates or product are unsafe, ineffective or not differentiated, risks of decisions from regulatory authorities that are unfavorable to the Company, dependence on third parties to conduct clinical studies, delays or failure to achieve and maintain regulatory approvals for product candidates, risks of collaborating with or relying on third parties to discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize products, and risks associated with establishing and maintaining sales, marketing and distribution capabilities with appropriate technical expertise and supporting infrastructure, ability to retain key personnel, the impact of the Company's recent restructuring actions on its employees, partners and others, the ability of the Company to protect and to enforce its intellectual property rights, volatility and fluctuations in the trading price and volume of the Company's shares, and general economic and market conditions. Other risks affecting Theravance Biopharma are in the Company's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 1, 2023, and other periodic reports filed with the SEC. In addition to the risks described above and in Theravance Biopharma's filings with the SEC, other unknown or unpredictable factors also could affect Theravance Biopharma's results. No forward-looking statements can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from such statements. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Theravance Biopharma assumes no obligation to update its forward-looking statements on account of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Theravance Biopharma provides a non-GAAP profitability target and a non-GAAP metric in this press release. Theravance Biopharma believes that the non-GAAP profitability target and non-GAAP net loss from operations provide meaningful information to assist investors in assessing prospects for future performance and actual performance as they provide better metrics for analyzing the performance of its business by excluding items that may not be indicative of core operating results and the Company's cash position. Because non-GAAP financial targets and metrics, such as non-GAAP profitability and non-GAAP net loss from operations, are not standardized, it may not be possible to compare these measures with other companies' non-GAAP targets or measures having the same or a similar name. Thus, Theravance Biopharma's non-GAAP measures should be considered in addition to, not as a substitute for, or in isolation from, the Company's actual GAAP results and other targets.

Contact:

investor.relations@theravance.com

650-808-4045













THERAVANCE BIOPHARMA, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands)













March 31,

December 31,

2023

2022 Assets (Unaudited)

(1) Current assets:





Cash and cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities $ 241,263

$ 327,484 Receivables from collaborative arrangements

12,270



16,785 Prepaid clinical and development services

1,524



1,513 Other prepaid and current assets

6,281



7,682 Total current assets

261,338



353,464 Long-term marketable securities

18,776



- Property and equipment, net

12,103



11,875 Operating lease assets

39,204



40,126 Future contingent milestone and royalty assets

194,200



194,200 Restricted cash

836



836 Other assets

12,093



6,899 Total assets $ 538,550

$ 607,400











Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity









Current liabilities $ 26,184

$ 28,715 Long-term operating lease liabilities

43,763



45,407 Future royalty payment contingency

25,988



25,438 Unrecognized tax benefits

64,191



64,191 Other long-term liabilities

7,865



1,849 Shareholders' equity

370,559



441,800 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 538,550

$ 607,400











________________________________





















(1) The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2022 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022.















THERAVANCE BIOPHARMA, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except per share data)

















Three Months Ended March 31,



2023

2022



(Unaudited) Revenue:











Viatris collaboration agreement (1)

$ 10,411

$ 10,687 Collaboration revenue



6



9 Licensing revenue



-



2,500 Total revenue



10,417



13,196













Costs and expenses:











Research and development (2)



14,572



23,253 Selling, general and administrative (2)



19,183



17,842 Restructuring and related expenses (2)



1,574



9,324 Total costs and expenses



35,329



50,419 Loss from operations



(24,912)



(37,223) Interest expense



(550)



(2,137) Interest income and other income (expense), net



2,979



(375) Loss from continuing operations before income taxes



(22,483)



(39,735) Provision for income tax benefit (expense)



395



(524) Net loss from continuing operations



(22,088)



(40,259)













Income from discontinued operations before income taxes



-



14,313 Provision for income tax benefit (expense)



-



- Net income from discontinued operations



-



14,313













Net loss

$ (22,088)

$ (25,946)













Net income (loss) per share:











Continuing operations - basic and diluted

$ (0.35)

$ (0.53) Discontinued operations - basic and diluted

$ -

$ 0.19 Net income (loss) - basic and diluted

$ (0.35)

$ (0.34)













Shares used to compute per share calculations - basic and diluted



62,934



75,247













Non-GAAP net loss from continuing operations



(14,912)



(25,190) ________________________________

























(1) While Viatris, Inc. records the total YUPELRI net sales, the Company is entitled to a 35% share of the net profit (loss) pursuant to a co-promotion agreement with Viatris as presented below:





























Three Months Ended March 31, (In thousands)

2023

2022 YUPELRI net sales (100% recorded by Viatris)

$ 46,955

$ 43,666 YUPELRI net sales (Theravance Biopharma implied 35%)



16,434



15,283













(2) Amounts include share-based compensation expense as follows:





























Three Months Ended March 31, (In thousands)

2023

2022 Research and development

$ 2,441

$ 4,530 Selling, general and administrative



4,223



5,498 Restructuring and related expenses



357



4,517 Total share-based compensation expense

$ 7,021

$ 14,545

THERAVANCE BIOPHARMA, INC. Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Net Income from Continuing Operations (In thousands, except per share data)

















Three Months Ended March 31,



2023

2022



(Unaudited)













GAAP Net Loss from Continuing Operations

$ (22,088)

$ (40,259) Adjustments:











Share-based compensation expense



7,021



14,545 Non-cash interest expense



550



- Income tax expense (benefit)



(395)



524 Non-GAAP Net Loss from Continuing Operations

$ (14,912)

$ (25,190)













Non-GAAP Net Loss per Share from Continuing Operations











Net loss - basic and diluted

$ (0.24)

$ (0.33)













Shares used to compute per share calculations - basic and diluted



62,934



75,247

1 In the US, Viatris is leading the commercialization of YUPELRI, and the Company co-promotes the product under a profit and loss sharing arrangement (65% to Viatris; 35% to the Company).

2 Symphony Health METYS Prescription Dashboard.

3 November 2022, Biaggioni I, et al. Abstract 34 / Virtual Poster 106; Kaufmann H, et al. Abstract 33 / Virtual Poster 117; Freeman R, et al. Abstract 30 / Virtual Poster 4

4 Source: GSK-reported Net Sales in USD.

5 The first milestone payment of $50.0 million will be triggered if Royalty Pharma receives $240.0 million or more in royalty payments from GSK with respect to 2023 TRELEGY global net sales, which we would expect to occur in the event TRELEGY global net sales reach approximately $2.863 billion. Royalties payable from GSK to Royalty Pharma are upward tiering from 6.5% to 10%.

6 Non-GAAP profit (loss) consists of GAAP net income (loss) before taxes less share-based compensation expense and non-cash interest expense. See the section titled "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for more information.

Cision

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SOURCE Theravance Biopharma, Inc.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 15 pharmaceutical companies in India. For more companies, click Top 5 Pharmaceutical Companies in India.

India is the largest producer of generic medications and vaccines worldwide. It makes up about 20% of the entire amount of generic drug supply in the world. With almost 200 nations receiving Indian pharmaceutical exports, India is a significant pharmaceutical exporter.

In addition, India has a strong network of over 10,500 production facilities, over 3,000 pharmaceutical enterprises, and a manpower pool that is highly skilled. Outside of the US, India has the most pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities that adhere to FDA rules.

More than 500 active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are produced in India, supplying 60,000 generic brands. India now has the third-largest API market in the world as a result. Most supplies are made up of over-the-counter medications used to treat common ailments without endangering life. The pharmaceutical industry's most important cities are Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Visakhapatnam, and Ahmedabad.

One of the top-performing sectors that provide lucrative business prospects is the Indian pharmaceutical market. In recent years, it has experienced enormous expansion. As the Indian pharmaceutical business transitions from a volume maker to a valued supplier in 2022, investors are turning to this sector for safe haven investments.

In 2020, the pharmaceutical industry's main focus was on covid medicines, but by 2022, it had turned to other serious ailments, including cancer and anaemia. In addition, research and development were highly valued in the Indian pharmaceutical business. As a result, India emerged as a global medical behemoth' in 2022 by growing its R&D ecosystem and increasing pharmaceutical exports.

India's pharmaceutical sector is presently worth $50 billion. A recent EY FICCI analysis projects that the Indian pharmaceutical industry will expand to $65 billion by 2024 and to $130 billion by 2030 due to a growing consensus over the need to provide patients with novel, innovative remedies. By 2023, it is anticipated that the worldwide market for pharmaceutical products will reach $1 trillion. With this outlook in mind, let's start our list of top pharmaceuticals company in India.

Story continues

Top Pharmaceutical Companies in India

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Our Methodology

This article will examine the biggest pharma companies in India. The companies are listed in ascending order of total employee count because larger enterprises often have a far higher staff count than smaller ones in the same industry.

Top Pharmaceuticals Companies in India

15. Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited

Number of Employees: 8,000

Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited is an Indian pharmaceutical company headquartered in Ahmedabad. It produces generic medications as well as contracts clinical research and production. It operates 18 production sites, 15 of which are in India and the remainder in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Intas has a presence in more than 85 countries and is expanding at a CAGR of over 22%.

14. Emcure Pharmaceuticals

Number of Employees: 9,000

Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited is a multinational pharmaceutical firm based in Pune, India. Emcure's product line includes tablets, capsules, and injectables. Emcure Pharmaceuticals' product portfolio, which has a strong chronic and sub-chronic emphasis, includes all the key medicines and is the industry leader in fields including women's health, blood-related illnesses, HIV, anti-infectives, cardiac care, and vitamins. Emcure Pharmaceuticals has distribution channels and a network that reaches over 70 countries. In addition, the company has 14 production plants and 5 R&D centers. Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited generated revenue of $730 million in FY 2022.

13. Piramal Enterprises Limited (NSE:PEL.NS)

Number of Employees: 13,561

Piramal Enterprises Limited conducts operations in the financial services and pharmaceutical industries in India, North America, Europe, Japan, and other countries. Financial Services and Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing and Services are two of its operating segments. The business provides contract development and manufacturing services, such as drug discovery, production, and manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients and formulations, as well as drugs for intrathecal spasticity management, inhalation and injectable anesthesia, injectable pain, antibiotics, and other medications.

12. Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited (NSE:TORNTPHARM.NS)

Number of Employees: 13,900

Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited is the main company of the Torrent Group and is one of the leading Pharma companies in India. The firm is among the leaders in the therapeutic area of cardiovascular, central nervous system, gastrointestinal, and women's healthcare. Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited in India originally introduced the idea of specialty marketing. The company is also well-represented in cancer, anti-infectives, diabetology, and pain treatment categories. Additionally, Torrent Pharma has a significant global footprint that spans 40 nations, with activities in developed and rising areas such as the US, Europe, Brazil, and the rest of the globe. The company operates through its 12 fully-owned subsidiaries, having a presence in 40 countries. In 2022, the company's revenue was $1.1 billion.

11. Abbott India Limited (NSE:ABBOTINDIA.NS)

Number of Employees: 14,000

Abbott India Limited, located in Mumbai, is a publicly traded corporation and a subsidiary of Abbott Capital India Limited. It has one of the quickest rates of growth among Indian pharmaceutical businesses. The business offers trustworthy, high-quality drugs in various therapeutic areas, such as women's health, gastroenterology, cardiology, metabolic disorders, central nervous system, pain management, pre-term labor, vitamins, sleeplessness, vaccinations, consumer health, etc. Thyronorm, Eptoin, Duphaston, Duphalac, Vertin, Udiliv, Heptral, Digene, Cremaffin, and Prothiaden are some of its well-known trademarks.

10. Biocon Limited (NSE:BIOCON.NS)

Number of Employees: 14,750

Biocon Limited (NSE:BIOCON.NS) makes drugs, therapeutic compounds, and herbal items. Generics, Novel Biologics, Biosimilars, and Research Services are among the company's segments. Its primary focus areas include diabetes, cancer, immunology, ophthalmology, and bone health issues. It also offers comprehensive services for the research, development, and manufacture of both small and large molecules. The company provides customer assistance in around 120 countries, including Europe and the US. INSUGEN (rh-insulin), BASALOG (Glargine), BIOMAb EGFR (Nimotuzumab), BLISTO (Glimepiride + Metformin), CANMAb (Trastuzumab), Evertor (Everolimus), TACROGRAF (Tacrolimus), ALZUMAb (Itolizumab), and KRABEVA (Bevacizumab) are some of Biocon's most important brands in India. The company's consolidated revenue grew 14% to $1.1 billion in FY22.

9. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited (NSE:GLENMARK.NS)

Number of Employees: 15,415

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited develops, produces, and markets pharmaceutical products in India, North America, Latin America, Europe, Japan, and globally through its subsidiaries. In the therapeutic fields of dermatology, respiratory, and cancer, the firm offers both branded and generic formulations and different active pharmaceutical components. The company operates 14 production plants in Argentina, the Czech Republic, India, and the US. Numerous regulatory agencies inspect these facilities, such as the US-FDA, MHRA UK, and ANVISA Brazil. In addition, being a research-driven company, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited has also made investments in special R&D facilities for international markets. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited brought in $1.48 billion in sales in FY 2022.

8. Alkem Laboratories Ltd. (NSE:ALKEM.NS)

Number of Employees: 17,000

Alkem Laboratories is a pharmaceutical company with international operations. The business creates, produces, and markets pharmaceutical and nutraceutical goods. It has built a strong market position in anti-infective, gastrointestinal, pain management, vitamins, minerals, and nutritional areas, as well as acute treatment. Branded Generics, Generic Drugs, API Nutraceuticals, and Biosimilars are among the company's product offerings. As of March 31, 2022, Alkem had 21 production facilities19 in India and 2 in the US. Clavam, Pan 40, Taxim-O, Taxim-D, Taxim Injection, Gemcal, A to Z Tabs, Ondem, Xone, Sumo, Zocef, Pipzo, Swich, Xone XP, and Uprise D3 are some of its top brands.

7. Divi's Laboratories (NSE:DIVISLAB:NS)

Number of Employees: 17000

Established in 1990, Divi's Laboratories is a top producer of active pharmaceutical ingredients, exporting top-notch goods to over 95 nations. Europe accounts for most of the company's sales, followed by North America, India, and Asia. The business views investing in mergers and acquisitions as a possible part of its operational growth plan to boost its R&D, production, and marketing capabilities. In FY22, Divi's Laboratories generated $1.1 billion in revenue.

6. Lupin Limited (NSE:LUPIN.NS)

Number of Employees: 20,000

Lupin Limited develops, produces, distributes, and markets a wide range of biotechnology products, branded and generic formulations, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Cardiovascular, asthma, diabetes management, pediatrics, central nervous system, gastroenterology, anti-infectives, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), anti-TB, and cephalosporins are among its areas of specialization. With 18 production facilities, Lupin sells its goods in more than 100 nations. India, the US, Japan, Europe, South Africa, the Philippines, and Australia are key markets for the company. The Indian pharmaceutical firm Lupin Limited announced net revenues of $1.96 billion for the fiscal year 2022.

Click to continue reading and see Top 5 Pharmaceuticals Company in India.

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Disclosure: None. Top 15 Pharmaceuticals Company in India is originally published on Insider Monkey.
Market.Us

According to Market.us, The Demand for Train market will rise due to their scenic routes and quick ability to travel great distances. Asia Pacific dominates with 53% of the Market Share in 2022 and by type, passenger train held 61% of the market share.

New York, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global train market was valued at USD 68.9 Billion in 2022 & is estimated to reach USD 99.1 Billion in 2032. It is attributed to register a CAGR of 3.8% between 2023 and 2032.

Since railroads were created, it has been about 200 years. The first steam-powered locomotive was built in the early 19th century and was primarily used to move coal. Later in the century, passenger trains were developed and they quickly replaced other modes of transportation for both people and goods. There are many different types of trains, such as commuter, high-speed, freight, and passenger trains. Other subcategories of passenger trains include long-distance trains, intercity trains, and regional trains.

A train's various components include the locomotive or engine, railcars or carriages, wheels, axles, and brakes, to name just a few. In addition, complex propulsion, braking, and control systems, including digital systems are typically found in modern trains. Specialized infrastructure, such as railroad tracks, bridges, tunnels, and signaling systems, is needed for the transportation of trains. To ensure safe and effective train operations, these components need to be properly constructed and maintained. In comparison to other forms of transportation like cars or airplanes, trains have less of an impact on the environment, are more energy-efficient, and are capable of carrying big loads of people and goods over great distances.

Global-Train-Market

We Have Recent Updates of the Market in Sample Copy@ https://market.us/report/train-market/request-sample

Key Takeaway:

By type, in 2022, passenger train dominates the global train market with 61% market share. The development of high-speed rail systems, especially in Asia and Europe, is a significant trend in the passenger railway industry.

By ticket type offline ticket dominates the global train market with a 69% market share. Due to the lack of widespread technological and consumer and operator adoption of online ticketing services.

In 2022, Asia Pacific dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 53% .

North America is anticipated to have the highest CAGR among all the regions.

North America is expected to grow at a greater pace owing to Passenger rail also becoming more popular in the region with Amtrak as well commuter rail systems such as the New York City Subway seeing steady growth in recent years.

Story continues

Factors affecting the growth of the train market industry

There are several factors that can have an impact on the growth of the train market industry. Some of these factors include:

Government policies: Government policies play a critical role in providing funding and support for the development of rail infrastructure. Government support can help to drive investment in new rail projects as well as improve the efficiency of existing rail networks.

Technological advancements: Technological advancements, such as high-speed trains and digital signaling systems, improve the efficiency and safety of train operations. These advancements can also help to reduce costs also increase the capacity of existing rail networks.

Economic conditions: Economic conditions, such as demand for transportation services and fuel prices, can affect the profitability of the industry. Changes in economic conditions can impact the demand for rail transportation, which in turn can affect the growth of the rail industry.

Environmental concerns: Environmental concerns, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation, are also driving the growth of the train market industry. Rail transportation is often seen as a more sustainable alternative to road and air transportation, which can help to reduce carbon emissions as well as promote sustainable development

Urbanization: As cities grow and become more densely populated, the demand for efficient and reliable transportation options increases. Rail transportation can provide an efficient as well reliable option for commuters and can help to reduce traffic congestion.

Freight transportation: In addition to passenger transportation, rail transportation is also an important mode of freight transportation. As the global economy continues to grow as well as trade volumes increase, the demand for freight transportation services is also increasing.

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Top Trends in The Train Market Industry

High-Speed Trains: The demand for high-speed trains has significantly increased across the world countries like China France and Japan have been leading the development of high-speed network

Sustainable Trains: The market for trains is not an exception to the growing concern about sustainability in the transportation industry. many companies are investing in the creation of sustainable train technology including hydrogen-powered, electric, and renewable energy-powered train

Digitalization: With the development of advanced train control systems IoT sensors and big data analytics. these technologies are being used to increase train operation, reliability, efficiency, and safety

Interoperability: With the increasing demand for international train travel, there is a need for interoperability between different train systems. An effort is being made to standardize train technology and infrastructure to enable seamless cross-border travel

Increased Investment: Private companies and the government are investing heavily in the train market, with a focus on improving infrastructure, modernizing trains, and increasing capacity to meet the growing demand.

Market Growth

As more people relocate to cities, there is an increasing need for public transit options, especially trains. This is particularly true in emerging countries where urbanization is accelerating. Trains are a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation than cars and airplanes. This has increased interest in trains as a sustainable transportation option, particularly in Europe and Asia. The train industry has seen significant technological advancement recently including advancement in high-speed rail, automation as well as digitization. Because of these advancement train are now more efficient, safe, and dependable making them more appealing means of transportation. In emerging nations, there is a growing need for transportation options that are quicker, more comfortable, and more practical than conventional forms of transit for longer-distance travel. The train is considered as a solution to meet this need.

It was necessary to update deteriorating railroad infrastructure such as tracks, bridges as well as tunnels in developed nations. The train sector has received large investments from nations like the United States and Japan, which aided in the market's expansion.

Regional Analysis

Asia Pacific dominates the global market with a revenue share of around 53.0%. The Asia-Pacific region is home to some of the world's largest train markets, including China, Japan, and India. These markets are characterized by a mix of traditional and high-speed trains, with a strong emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and affordability. The market is also seeing significant growth in urban transportation solutions such as light rail and metro systems.

The North America market for trains is dominated by freight transportation, with companies such as Union Pacific and Canadian National Railway controlling a significant share of the market. Passenger rail is also becoming more popular in the region with Amtrak as well commuter rail systems such as the New York City Subway seeing steady growth in recent years.

With a focus on commuter and high-speed rail, Europe is one of the biggest and most developed markets for trains in the world. Major manufacturers like Siemens, Alstom, and Bombardier dominate the European market, which is also significantly influenced by public policies and infrastructure spending.

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Scope of the Report

Report Attribute Details Market Value (2022) USD 68.9 Million Market Size (2032) USD 99.1 Million CAGR (from 2023 to 2032) 3.8% from 2023 to 2032 Asia-Pacific Revenue Share 53% Historic Period 2016 to 2022 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023 to 2032

Market Drivers

The growth of the global train market is being driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for public transportation, the growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions, and the increasing investments in railway infrastructure projects. Additionally, the development of high-speed rail networks in various countries is also contributing to the growth of the market. Furthermore, the demand for trains is expected to increase in the coming years due to increasing urbanization and the need for efficient and sustainable modes of transportation. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period, with China as well India being the major contributors to the growth. Overall, the global train market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by various factors such as increasing urbanization, government initiatives also the need for sustainable transportation.

Market Restraints

For companies wishing to enter the field, investing in massive infrastructure, rolling stock, and maintenance facilities is required for train systems. Trains compete with vehicles such as cars, buses, and airplanes in the transportation sector. While cars and buses are typically more practical for shorter trips, aircraft may often travel faster. The train industry is subject to stringent regulations regarding environmental impact and safety. These regulations may push up costs and discourage inventiveness in the industry. Frequent, often expensive, train maintenance is required. This can be a significant obstacle for companies trying to reduce costs. Train systems require tracks, stops, and maintenance facilities, among other things. It can be quite challenging to build this infrastructure, especially in congested areas with little space.

Market Opportunities

As more people move to cities, the demand for public transportation rises, and trains are a common choice because of their effectiveness, speed, and dependability. As a result of the global movement for sustainable transportation, trains have seen increased investment because they are a clean and energy-efficient mode of transportation. Manufacturers and operators now have more options because of advances in train technology, such as high-speed trains, magnetic levitation trains, and driverless trains. The infrastructure of railways is being heavily invested in by governments around the world, including tax breaks for manufacturers and subsidies for operators. Trains are a popular mode of travel for visitors because of their scenic routes and speedy ability to cover long distances.

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Report segmentation of the train market industry.

Type Insight

Based on type, passenger train dominates the global train market with a 61% market share. The development of high-speed rail systems, especially in Asia and Europe, is a significant trend in the passenger railway industry. For short to medium distances, these systems provide a quicker, more effective alternative to flying, and they are growing in popularity among tourists. The nations with the largest high-speed rail networks include China, Japan, France, Spain, and Germany. Another trend is the increased focus on amenities and comfort for passengers.

To move goods and resources between different geographic areas and industrial sectors, freight trains are a crucial part of the worldwide train market. Raw commodities like coal and iron ore as well as finished goods like cars, electronics, and food are frequently transported via freight trains. Due to growing trade and globalization, there has been an increase in the need for freight trains in recent years.

Ticket Type Insight

Based on ticket type, offline ticket dominates the global train market with a 69% market share. Due to the lack of widespread technological and consumer and operator adoption of online ticketing services. A counter ticket is one that is purchased at the train station's ticket window. Counter tickets are available for single, round-trip, and season trips. Together with an ordinary ticket, a reservation ticket can reserve a certain seat or bed on the train. Specic trains, especially high-speed trains, require reservation tickets, which are frequently offered for first-class as well sleeper seats. Without actually boarding the train, the traveler can use a platform ticket to enter the platform area of the station.

Online ticket is anticipated to expand rapidly, when compared to more conventional ways, buying train tickets online has a variety of advantages. It allows travelers to cut down on time and avoid lengthy lines at ticket booths. Also, they can examine the train schedule, pick the seat of their choice, and pay for their ticket using a variety of payment options

Recent Development of the train market.

In December 2021- A high-speed rail route linking Makkah, Medina, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City was officially opened in Saudi Arabia. The line travels 450 kilometers with a top speed of 300 kilometers per hour (186 mph)

In January 2022- 20 hydrogen-powered trains will be delivered by 2023 by the French train maker Alstom to Ferrovie Nord Milano (FNM) in Italy. This will be the country of Italy's first hydrogen-powered trains.

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Market Segmentation

Based on Type

Passenger Train

Freight Train

Based on the Ticket Type

Online Ticket

Offline Ticket

By Geography

North America

The US Canada Mexico



Western Europe

Germany France The UK Spain Italy Portugal Ireland Austria Switzerland Benelux Nordic Rest of Western Europe



Eastern Europe

Russia Poland The Czech Republic Greece Rest of Eastern Europe

APAC China Japan South Korea India Australia & New Zealand Indonesia Malaysia Philippines Singapore Thailand Vietnam Rest of APAC



Latin America

Brazil Colombia Chile Argentina Costa Rica Rest of Latin America



Middle East & Africa

Algeria Egypt Israel Kuwait Nigeria Saudi Arabia South Africa Turkey United Arab Emirates Rest of MEA



Competitive Landscape

The market is extremely fragmented, with large and small companies both having significant influence. Important businesses concentrate on expanding and extending rail networks to underserved regions and technical advancements. Several operators intend to replace diesel-powered trains with innovative green technologies like fuel cells. For long-distance train travel in Asia and Europe, many countries also intend to invest in high-speed rail.

Some of the major players include:

Deutsche Bahn AG Company Profile

SNCF Group

MTR Corporation Limited

Amtrak Corporation

Via Rail Canada Inc.

Korea Railroad Corporation

China State Railway Co. Ltd.

OBB Group

Central Japan Railway Company

NSW Train link

Other Key Players

Browse More Related Reports:

Electric Powertrain market size is expected to be worth around USD 1,015 billion by 2032 from USD 103 billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 26% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

Automotive Powertrain Market was valued at USD 758,092.3 million in 2021 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 9.1%, between 2023-2032.



Automotive Drivetrain Market was valued at US$ 201 Billion in 2022. This number is expected to increase to US$ 378.96 Billion by 2033, advancing at a CAGR of around 7.3% during 2023-2033.



AI Training Dataset Market was valued at USD 1.9 Billion. Between 2023 and 2032, this market is estimated to register the highest CAGR of 20.5%. It is expected to reach USD 11.7 Billion by 2032.



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Skip Continues to Help Make Moments Special with Convenient and Affordable Flower Delivery in Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Ottawa

TORONTO, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Just in time for Mother's Day, SkipTheDishes, Canada's largest food delivery network, has launched flower delivery from local favourites, now available in Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Ottawa!

Skip Retail Flower Delivery (CNW Group/SkipTheDishes)

Skip continues to bring more value and convenience to Canadians, expanding beyond meals from your favourite local restaurants and groceries from Skip Express Lane, to now delivering flowers and pet supplies, all within 30 minutes of placing your order. There are currently over 70 independent flower vendors on the network across the country, with plans for further expansion to additional markets and stores.

Skip wants to help Canadians celebrate every moment, including Mother's Day with ease in the most convenient and affordable way possible. Whether consumers are on the hunt for a last-minute gift or just don't want to brave the stores - they can avoid the last minute panic of finding the perfect gift for loved ones thanks to Skip.



Through the wide selection of local flower vendors on the network, you can now choose between same-day delivery within 30 minutes or a pre-order option. Send a gift directly (even to someone in another city) by putting the recipient's address into the app instead of using your own, to have the flowers delivered conveniently straight to their door.

Some of the local favourites on Skip include:

May Flowers Floral Co. ( Toronto )

Million Rose Flowers ( Toronto )

Fleuriste Brunet Florist ( Ottawa )

St. Boniface Golden Florist ( Winnipeg )

McDiarmid Flowers ( Winnipeg )

Yara Flowers ( Calgary )

Forget Me Not Florist ( Calgary )

Mayfield Flowers ( Edmonton )

Mei Mei Florist (Vancouver)

Since launching its innovative grocery and household item delivery service Skip Express Lane in 2021, Skip's retail offerings continue to rapidly expand based on consumer demand.

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"Flowers are just the beginning of the many new and exciting retail categories Skip continues to expand into," says Steve Puchala, Interim CEO at SkipTheDishes. "We are excited to continue furthering our commitment to supporting local businesses and providing the best value and choice for Canadians, for all moments and occasions."

Flowers are available directly in the Skip app. Consumers can either click the Flowers icon in the top of their app, or search "flowers" in the navigation bar to find multiple shops in their area to choose from on Mother's Day and beyond. In addition to local vendors, Skip Express Lane fulfilment centres will also be delivering flowers in 25 minutes or less in select markets to celebrate Mother's Day, providing additional options when searching "flowers" within the app.

SkipTheDishes (CNW Group/SkipTheDishes)

SOURCE SkipTheDishes

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LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Premier software-as-a-service (SaaS) email encryption security provider Trustifi is proud to announce that its Chairman and Co-founder Antoinette "Toni" Chaltiel has once again been named to CRN magazine's prestigious Women of the Channel list. CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, is one of the most widely read news publications in the IT channel. This is the third year running that Ms. Chaltiel has appeared on this esteemed list of female executives. See her listing here.

Each year, CRN's editorial staff recognizes outstanding female leaders from the manufacturer, distribution, and solution provider communities "whose expertise and vision are leaving a noticeable and commendable mark on the technology industry," according to a statement by the publisher. Honorees "bring their creativity, strategic thinking and leadership to bear in a variety of roles and responsibilities, but all are turning their unique talents toward driving success for their partners and customers. With this recognition, CRN honors these women for their unwavering dedication and commitment to furthering channel excellence," as per that statement.

Entrepreneur and market investor Toni Chaltiel founded Trustifi in 2017, one of a line of successful businesses that she established over the decades in both the United States and her native Ireland. She began her career through the study of foreign languages during a difficult economic period in Ireland, and with some hard work, landed a position with the European Union. She came up in the ranks in various industries in Ireland, eventually founding her own design firm, followed by an insurance brokerage in California after immigrating to the states.

Trustifi offers a holistic suite of SaaS-based AI cyber security solutions, providing both inbound and outbound data protection from a single platform. The solutions employ powerful, next-generation AI filters and optical character recognition to analyze inbound messages, identifying and classifying questionable emails based on a market-leading ability to interpret text. This allows Trustifi to deter advanced phishing attempts such as sophisticated BEC (business email compromise) attacks aimed at high level personnel, in addition to brand imposter scams, and a host of other phishing and malware issues. Trustifi boasts easy-to-use, government-grade encryption with groundbreaking tokenization capabilities, allowing recipients to read through encrypted mail as easily as any other message. These features were designed with MSPs in mind to provide a more compelling and comprehensive security offering to their business customers, delivering superior data protection at a competitive value.

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The company's latest innovation for the channel is its new MSSP Dashboard offering for multi-tenant environments, which allows solution providers to manage their Trustifi licenses across a variety of clients through a single, intuitive interface. This empowers MSSPs and MSPs to duplicate services from one client to another with the click of a mouse, replicating consistent policy rules from plan to plan using the simple drag and drop functionality. This streamlined management and expanded visibility in a multi-client setting is a breakthrough capability for channel partners, many of whom manage hundreds of seats across a complicated array of business customers.

"As a female business owner and leader, I'm honored to be among the pioneers included in CRN's 2023 Women of the Channel list," Chaltiel said. "More women than ever are now driving executive management, organizational policy, and product innovation throughout the IT industry, furthering the goals of their companies through exceptional business acumen, ingenuity, and grit. I envision a future where women consistently contribute their outstanding talents to this field, elevating the trajectory of technology as it becomes further ingrained in our businesses, our home lives, and our overall security. There's never been a more vital time to be involved in the technology space."

"We are ecstatic to announce this year's honorees and shine a light on these women for their significant achievements, knowing that what they've accomplished has paved the way for continued success within the IT channel," said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. "The channel is stronger because of them, and we look forward to seeing what they do next."

Trustifi was recognized in the 2023 Gartner Market Guide for Email Security* for its Outbound Shield, Inbound Shield, and Account Compromise Detection solution. Trustifi's solutions have been acknowledged by awards and media features from prestigious sources such as Expert Insights, CRN magazine, Source Forge, the American Business Association, the Golden Bridge Awards, and Channel Visions magazine.

*Gartner, "Market Guide for Email Security", Ravisha Chugh, Peter Firstbrook, Franz Hinner, 13 February 2023. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

https://go.trustifi.com/gartner-email

About Trustifi

Trustifi is a cybersecurity firm featuring solutions delivered on a software-as-a-service platform. Trustifi leads the market with the easiest-to-use and deploy email security products providing both inbound and outbound email security from a single vendor. The most valuable asset to any organization, other than its employees, is the data contained in its email, and Trustifi's key objective is keeping clients' data, reputations, and brands safe from all threats related to email. With Trustifi's Inbound Shield, Data Loss Prevention, and Email Encryption, clients are always one step ahead of attackers. www.trustifi.com

Follow Trustifi: Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

# # #

Contact:

Suzanne Mattaboni

CommCentric Solutions

610 737-2140

smattaboni@commcentric.com

SOURCE: Trustifi





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Anthology's Annual Global Fix Your Content Day is May 18

BOCA RATON, Fla., May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Anthology, a leading provider of education solutions that support the entire learner lifecycle, today announced its fourth annual Fix Your Content Day to highlight the need for more inclusive digital learning content. Anthology is inviting higher education institutions that use Anthology Ally to participate.

The objective of Fix Your Content Day is to engage colleges and universities globally to make meaningful change in the lives of all students and create more inclusive learning environments. By participating in the competition, higher ed institutions and instructors are doing their part to improve the accessibility of course materials and demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity.

"We look forward to participating in the 24-hour global competition each year, which challenges us to continue our journey in creating more inclusive digital learning content," said Coastal Pines Technical College Executive Vice President, Amanda Morris, the 2022 First Place Fix Your Content Day Global Winner. "While Fix Your Content Day is only once a year, our college and the Technical College System of Georgia collectively strives to improve the accessibility of course materials and serve as a champion for accessibility every day. Additionally, we enjoy the friendly competition with other colleges and encourage our faculty and staff to get involved. The challenge is a fun way to review our course content for quality and accessibility."

More than 1,500 institutions around the world use Anthology Ally to enhance digital content on their learning management systems (LMS). The result is better learning outcomes for students by improving the usability, readability, and quality of the digital materials in their courses.

"An estimated one billion people across the globe experience some sort of physical, visual, hearing, or cognitive disability. Employing solutions to create more accessible learning environments is imperative," said Anthology Chairman and CEO Jim Milton. "However, making content more accessible and providing alternative formats isn't just for a select group of students. Alternative formats generated by solutions like Anthology Ally provide greater opportunities for everyone to access the information they need in the way they want it. We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm of institutions and faculty participating in this global effort."

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Anthology Ally empowers learners with the flexibility of choosing the most effective way to interact with digital content. By dynamically enhancing learning materials for student preferences and needs, it automatically provides alternative formats for course content, like audio files, translations, PDFs better formatted for mobile devices and more, all without manual intervention from the institution or instructor.

"While we've been actively supporting faculty and staff in centering inclusivity in their online courses for years, this will be our first year participating in Fix Your Content Day," said Dr. Hannah Digges Elliott, Senior Instructional Designer at Western Kentucky University. "We're excited about the opportunity to encourage a little competition among our faculty and staff and ultimately continue to highlight the importance of more accessible content."

"We're thrilled to be a part of such a global initiative that unites the higher education community around a friendly competition and highlights the critical need for accessible, inclusive, and equitable online learning environments," said Dr. Chris Campbell, Sub Dean of Learning Technology at Charles Sturt University in Australia.

"Fix Your Content Day highlights the importance of building equitable learning experiences," said Dr. Margaret Korosec, Dean of Online and Digital Education at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. "It's also a reminder to reflect on how learning experiences are received by students and how choice of access supports their requirements. Equitable access starts with our own awareness of what's possible and working to push the boundaries of what can be done in an accessible way."

To participate in the 2023 Fix Your Content Day challenge, register your institution here: https://www.anthology.com/fix-your-content-day

About Anthology

Anthology offers the largest EdTech ecosystem on a global scale for education, recently combining with Blackboard to support more than 150 million users in 80 countries. With a mission to provide dynamic, data-informed experiences to the global education community, Anthology helps learners, leaders and educators achieve their goals through over 60 SaaS products and services designed to advance learning. Discover more about how we are fulfilling our mission for K-12, higher education, business and government institutions at www.anthology.com.

CONTACT: Erin Mitchell, Anthology, Erin.Mitchell@anthology.com

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SOURCE Anthology
NEW YORK, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The US Best Managed Companies program, sponsored by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, today unveiled its 2023 honorees.

2023 US Best Managed Company Honorees

These 56 U.S. private companies demonstrated excellence in four key categories: strategic planning, operational execution, a commitment to their people and fostering a dynamic culture, as well as strong governance and financials. Seventeen of these honorees also are recognized as Gold Standard winners, a special designation that celebrates companies that have won for four years running.

U.S. honorees join a global network of Best Managed Companies consisting of more than 1,400 organizations from 46 countries.

"Our Best Managed Companies program is about recognizing U.S. private businesses and the impact their achievements have on their customers, suppliers, people, and communities," said Wolfe Tone, vice chair, US Deloitte Private leader, Deloitte LLP. "This year's honorees span multiple industries and geographies but have one thing in common  they've developed their own unique recipe for success. One that has not only propelled their organization forward, but also has positively contributed to society. Deloitte Private has the distinct pleasure of being able to commend and celebrate their efforts, stories, and the teams who make it all possible."

A panel of independent judges reviewed applications and selected this year's honorees. Benefits of the program include access to a global community of peer business leaders and marketplace recognition.

For more information on the US Best Managed Companies program, please visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

About the Best Managed Companies Program

The Best Managed Companies program is a mark of excellence for private companies. U.S. designees generate annual revenue of at least $250 million. Hundreds of private companies around the world have competed for this designation in their respective countries through a rigorous and independent process that evaluates four key criteria in their management skills and practices  strategy, execution, culture and governance/financials. The U.S. Best Managed Company program sponsors are Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. For more information, visit www.usbestmanagedcompanies.com.

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About Deloitte

Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500 and more than 8,500 private companies. Our people come together for the greater good and work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today's marketplace  delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthier society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Building on more than 175 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte's approximately 415,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms.

As used in this document, "Deloitte" means Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. (PRNewsFoto/Deloitte)

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SOURCE Deloitte
PUNE, India, May 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a recent market study published by Growth Market Reports, titled, "US Glassmaking Silica Sand Market by Purity (High purity and Ultra-high purity), Type (Less than 40 mesh, 40-70 mesh, More than 70 mesh), Application (Flat Plates and Windows, Containers, Fiberglass, Display/Glass, and Others), End-user (Food & Beverages, Industrial, Pharmaceutical, Scientific Instrument & Analytical Research, Construction, Automotive, Cookware & Utensils, and Others), and Region (West, Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest) - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Share, Size, Trends, and Forecast 2023  2031 and Region: Size, Share, Trends, and Opportunity Analysis, 2023-2031", the market was valued at USD 1.16 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 1.51 billion, expanding at a CAGR of 3.0% by the end of 2031.

Growth Market Reports Logo





Key Market Players Profiled in the Report

Covia Holdings Corp.

U.S. Silica

Emerge Energy Services LP

Badger Mining Corporation

Hi-Crush Inc.

Preferred Proppants, LLC

SCR- Sibelco NV

Minerali Industriali S.r.l

Aggregate Industries

Quarzwerke GmbH

WOLFF & MULLER Holding GmBH & Co.

Source Energy, LLC.

Liberty Materials Inc.

SP Sillica Corporate, LLC

Eagle Materials, Inc.

Download PDF Sample here: https://growthmarketreports.com/request-sample/208



The report covers comprehensive data on emerging trends, market drivers, growth opportunities, and restraints that can change the industry's market dynamics. It provides an in-depth analysis of the market segments, which includes type, application, and competitor analysis.

This report also includes a complete analysis of industry players and covers their latest developments, product portfolio, pricing, mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations. Moreover, it provides crucial strategies that are helping market players to expand their market share.

Highlights on the Segments of the US Glassmaking Silica Sand Market

In terms of purity, the US glassmaking silica sand market is bifurcated into high purity and ultra-high purity. The high-purity segment is expected to expand at a significant growth rate during the projection period, owing to its remarkable thermal resistance and near-zero thermal expansion.

Story continues

For Any Questions on This Report: https://growthmarketreports.com/enquiry-before-buying/208

On the basis of type, the global market is segregated into less than 40 mesh, 40-70 mesh, and more than 70 mesh. The less than 40 mesh segment is projected to register high growth during the forecast period, owing to increasing demand in various end-user industries, such as food & beverages and construction. Glass with less than 40 mesh offers enhanced thermal insulation and protection from chemical reactions, which is helpful for storing food and enhancing ambiance inside a structure.

Based on application, the US glassmaking silica sand market is segmented into flat plates and windows, containers, fiberglass, display/glass, and others. The construction segment is expected to register robust growth during the forecast period, owing to its usage in glass vessels and the construction industry. The construction industry uses glass panels to maintain the ambiance inside the structure with thermal insulation and natural lighting to elevate the mood of the occupants.

On the basis of end-user, the market is segmented into food & beverages, industrial, pharmaceutical, scientific instrument & analytical research, construction, automotive, cookware & utensils, and others. The food & beverages segment accounts for a significant share of the market and is anticipated to expand at a considerable CAGR during the forecast period. Consumption of glassmaking silica sand is increasing in the food & beverage sector, due to the rising preference for fair practices and hygiene concerns in food and beverage packaging. The construction segment is anticipated to expand at a high CAGR during the forecast period, owing to the use of glass in providing enhanced esthetics and indoor ambiance to occupants. Laminated, toughened, and reinforced glass is used for partitions inside the structures as an architectural feature.

Based on region, the market is segmented into five major regions, namely the West, Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest. The Midwest is expected to dominate the market during the projection period, owing to rapid industrialization and farming in the region. The Midwest is known for the manufacture of heavy machinery using glass. The high use of glass in heavy industries contributes to the growth of the market significantly.

To Buy the Complete Report: https://growthmarketreports.com/report/glassmaking-silica-sand-market-united-states-industry-analysis

Key Takeaways from the Study:

Increasing use of glass in the construction, food packaging, and automotive industry for various purposes is contributing to the growth of the glassmaking silica sand market.

Glass is preferred in the construction industry, as it transmits 80% of natural light in the interiors of the building. This helps to lower electricity bills and maintain a pleasant atmosphere inside the building.

Glass is manufactured as per the applications and requirements of consumers. Advancements in manufacturing toughened glasses help in the retention of nutrients in the food. Laminated glass was introduced to enhance the indoor ambiance.

Glass used in ophthalmological applications offers high radiation resistance with high transparency from ultraviolet to the infrared spectral range. It has a wide range of applications in the chemical and electronics industries.

Silica mining operations are regulated by the authorities, as it causes land erosion, sinkholes, and biodiversity loss. Chemicals used in mining result in the degradation of the soil, natural habitat of wild animals, and groundwater.

Read 111 Pages Research Report with Detailed Toc on "US Glassmaking Silica Sand Market by Purity (High purity and Ultra-high purity), Type (Less than 40 mesh, 40-70 mesh, More than 70 mesh), Application (Flat Plates and Windows, Containers, Fiberglass, Display/Glass, and Others), End-user (Food & Beverages, Industrial, Pharmaceutical, Scientific Instrument & Analytical Research, Construction, Automotive, Cookware & Utensils, and Others), and Regions (West, Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest) - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Share, Size, Trends, and Forecast 2023  2031"

Get Full Access to this Report: https://growthmarketreports.com/checkout/208

Key Segments Covered

Purity

High purity

Ultra-high purity

Type

Less than 40 mesh

40-70 mesh

More than 70 mesh

Application

Flat Plates and Windows

Containers

Fiberglass

Display/Glass

Others

Region

Asia Pacific

North America

Latin America

Europe

Middle East & Africa

Key Players

Hi-Crush Inc.

Preferred Proppants, LLC

Covia Holdings Corp.

U.S. Silica

Quarzwerke GmbH

Aggregate Industries

Emerge Energy Services LP

Badger Mining Corporation

SCR-Siebelco NV

Covia Holdings Corp

WOLFF & MULLER Holding GmBH & Co.

Source Energy, LLC.

Liberty Materials Inc.

SP Sillica Corporate, LLC

Eagle Materials, Inc.

Minerali Industriali S.r.l

Other Related Reports:

Asia Pacific Silica Sand Market By Type (Wet Sand, Dry Sand, Frac Sand, Filter Sand, and Coated Sand), By Application (Glass Manufacturing, Foundry, Hydraulic Fracturing, Construction, Chemical Production, and Others), and Country (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, South East Asian Countries, and Rest of Asia Pacific)

Global Silica Sand Market by Type (Less than 40 mesh, 40-70 mesh, More than 70 mesh), By Application (Hydraulic fracturing, Glassmaking, Foundry, Ceramics and Refractories, Others) And By Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa), Forecast From 2022 To 2030

Global Silica Sand Sales Market by Type (Less than 40 mesh, 40-70 mesh, More than 70 mesh), By Application (Hydraulic fracturing, Glassmaking, Foundry, Ceramics and Refractories, Others) and Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa), Forecast To 2028

Global Silica Sand for Glass Market by Type (High Purity, Ultra High Purity), By Application (Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Construction, Automotive, Others), and Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa), Forecast From 2022 To 2030

About Growth Market Reports:

Growth Market Reports provides global enterprises as well as small & medium businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Industry Intelligence Solutions". Growth Market Reports has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients in making strategic business decisions and achieving sustainable growth in their respective market domains.

Our key analysis segments, though not restricted to the same, include market entry strategies, market size estimations, market trend analysis, market opportunity analysis, market threat analysis, market growth/fall forecasting, primary interviews, and secondary research & consumer surveys.

Contact:

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7th Floor, Siddh Icon,

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Maharashtra  411045. India.

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SOURCE Growth Market Reports
By Marianna Parraga

HOUSTON (Reuters) - A U.S. court of appeals has granted Venezuela a temporary stay preventing six companies from joining a proposed court auction of shares in a Citgo Petroleum parent to enforce judgments for past expropriation of assets.

Since March, creditors including a unit of O-I Glass, Huntington Ingalls Industries, ACL1 Investments, Koch Minerals and mining firms Rusoro Mining and Gold Reserve, have been granted rights to seize shares in the parent of Venezuela-owned refiner Citgo, PDV Holding.

The companies had won conditional attachments to a federal case in which the judge has approved a process to auction the shares to pay a $970 million judgment won by miner Crystallex.

The six hold arbitration awards or judgments that total about $2.6 billion and wanted those awards to be included in the auction.

The appeals court on Friday suspended the attachments until a panel could hear from Venezuela and the six companies to be filed with the court by June. The proposed auction, which could break up the seventh largest U.S. refiner to pay creditors, took a giant step forward last month with a greenlight from the U.S. Treasury.

"The motion suspends, under an emergency request, the attachments the six additional companies had won to be part of the auction until an appeal is introduced by us in the coming weeks," Horacio Medina, head of a board supervising Citgo Petroleum, told Reuters.

The board had said in March it would appeal the decisions granting the six firms rights to seize shares. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit on Friday gave Venezuela until May 19 to file an appeal, moving a final decision on the attachments likely to the third quarter, Medina said.

Citgo split from Venezuelan state-run oil company PDVSA in 2019 under an order by Venezuela's National Assembly after the U.S. imposed sanctions intended to oust President Nicolas Maduro. Washington has since recognized the opposition-led congress as the entity controlling the refining subsidiary, extending protection to prevent its breakup at the hands of Venezuela creditors.

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The freeze is separate from the progress of the original Crystallex case, in which U.S. oil producer ConocoPhillips also received an attachment for a $1.3 billion claim.

Earlier this month, U.S. officials told the court the U.S. will not block the auction or settlement talks, paving the way for a potential seizure or negotiated deal with creditors of Venezuela's most-prized foreign asset. A U.S. Treasury license would still be needed to complete any sale.

"This is just a temporary lifesaver for us," Medina said, adding that talks over possible payment arrangements with several creditors have not been interrupted even amid the court's decisions.

Last week, the chief of Venezuela's opposition-led congress complained about the U.S. change of position on the protection of the Venezuela-owned facilities overseas, and prompted the supervisory boards to preserve the assets.

(Reporting by Marianna Parraga and Gary McWilliams; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
Riyadh Travel Fair, Saudi Arabias largest domestic and outbound tourism promotion event is set to be held at The Arena Grenada Square in Riyadh from May 22 to 24 for the 13th consecutive year with 150 exhibitors from over 35 countries.



This year's event will feature a dedicated pavilion for the travel trade and media, providing exhibitors with valuable opportunities to host seminars and press conferences. The 150 exhibitors, including 30 national and regional pavilions, will grace the show floor, which has been expanded by 30% compared to the 2022 edition.



Bander Al Gryni, General Manager of ASAS Exhibitions, the organizer of the Riyadh Travel Fair, said: "Last year, the Riyadh Travel Fair featured 129 exhibitors with visitor attendance at 24,957. That was an increase of 20% compared to the 2019 edition. This year, we anticipate exhibitors to surpass 150, with expected visitor numbers exceeding 30,000."



Al Gryni added: "Year after year, we have witnessed consistent positive growth in the number of participants, exhibitors, and attendees at RTF. With Saudi nationals increasingly traveling both domestically and overseas, the opportunities that the Riyadh Travel Fair provides for domestic and overseas destinations, hospitality service providers, and other tourism-related businesses to directly engage with the kingdom's leading travel professionals and travelers have never been more significant."



The Riyadh Travel Fair is open to travel professionals and the general public looking for destination information and special deals. Visitors to the 2023 edition will have the opportunity to interact directly with various tourism authorities, hotels, airlines, and travel agents from around the world.



The fair will be strongly represented by the Arabian Gulf region, including pavilions sponsored by The Royal Commission for AlUla, Amala Tourism, Qatar Tourism Authority, Flynas, and Al-Riyadh Travel & Tourism, among others. National pavilions, including those of Mauritius, Malta, Jordan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Trnava, and the Czech Republic, among others, have also confirmed their attendance.



The ASAS Exhibition and Conference Organizing company is hosting the Riyadh Travel Fair 2023 with sponsorship from several partners. These include the Qatar Tourism Authority as a Strategic Partner, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board as a Diamond Sponsor, the Czech Republic, the Royal Commission for AlUla, and Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority as Gold Sponsors. FlyNas will serve as the Official Carrier. Additionally, for the first time, this year's fair will feature St. Petersburg as a Gold Partner and 4 Seasons Travel Georgia and Al Meshini as Silver Partners.  TradeArabia News Service
CALGARY, AB, May 8, 2023 /CNW/ - Vermilion Energy Inc. ("Vermilion") (TSX: VET) (NYSE: VET) is providing the following update on the impact of the wildfires in Alberta.

Vermilion Energy Inc. Provides Update on Impact of Alberta Wildfires (CNW Group/Vermilion Energy Inc.)

With the protection and safety of our people and local residents as the utmost priority, Vermilion is closely monitoring the wildfires surrounding our operations in West Central Alberta. We have accounted for all of our employees and contractors in the affected areas to ensure their safety, and have also taken the safe measure to temporarily shut-in approximately 30,000 boe/d of production while we assess the risk to our operations. Our assessment to date indicates minimal damage to our key infrastructure. Vermilion will continue to closely monitor the situation and work with the appropriate authorities, and we will provide an update in due course.

We would like to thank our staff and emergency responders for their tireless work in response to the wildfires. Our thoughts are with our employees, their families, and our neighbors in the local communities during this difficult time.

About Vermilion

Vermilion is an international energy producer that seeks to create value through the acquisition, exploration, development and optimization of producing assets in North America, Europe and Australia. Our business model emphasizes free cash flow generation and returning capital to investors when economically warranted, augmented by value-adding acquisitions. Vermilion's operations are focused on the exploitation of light oil and liquids-rich natural gas conventional and unconventional resource plays in North America and the exploration and development of conventional natural gas and oil opportunities in Europe and Australia.

Vermilion's priorities are health and safety, the environment, and profitability, in that order. Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the public and those who work with us, and the protection of our natural surroundings. We have been recognized by leading ESG rating agencies for our transparency on and management of key environmental, social and governance issues. In addition, we emphasize strategic community investment in each of our operating areas.

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Vermilion trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol VET.

Cision

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SOURCE Vermilion Energy Inc.

Cision

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COLLEGE STATION, TX / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Enzolytics, Inc. (OTC PINK:ENZC) (https://enzolytics.com/).

Enzolytics, Inc. (the "Company" or "ENZC"), a drug development biotech company, announced that the Company's wholly owned subsidiary, Virogenetics (VIRO), will be conducting a pilot clinical trial test for the state owned Bulgarian National Center for Endocrinology to gauge the effectiveness of the ITV-1 immunotherapy on Diabetes.

To facilitate the transition from laboratory production to standardized industrial production at the VetProm-Danson facility in Bulgaria, VIRO purchased a flow machine for the sterile filling of the ITV-1 treatment into individual vials. At the VetProm facility, VIRO recently fulfilled the initial order for the immunotherapy treatment for distribution to the participating hospitals in Africa that are scheduled for delivery on May 10, 2023. The treatments are administered by intramuscular injection twice a week over two eight-week cycles with a one week break between cycles. Results from this initial administration of ITV-1 to HIV patients is expected by late fall of this year.

Further, after the initial report on the Toxicity of ITV-1, the VIRO team, working in close cooperation with the European Medicine Agency ("EMA") to determine the fastest and most effective path to registration of ITV-1 in Europe, is now progressing to the study on pharmacokinetics. This study will be conducted by the German company, Korporativ Klinik Drug Research and Development. The methodology for this research will be done on volunteer patients using pl ELAZA standards, as recommended by the EMA, in a specialized laboratory in Germany. VIRO produced several batches of ITV-1 at the Vetprom-Danson plant using standardized industrial production methods. Vials from this batch are being analyzed at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences to determine protein concentration, native enzyme concentration and peptide analysis, and amino acid sequence.

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Once this study is complete, VIRO will be able to complete the cycle to fulfill the manufacturing conditions for production of the validation orders in mid-September of this year. Once manufacturing is complete the clinical trials for module 3 for the EMA permitting will begin in Germany. When Module 3 is complete, the Company will formulate the requirements for modules 4 and 5 for registration in Europe.

Over the last two years, Virogentics' Virognetic's research and development team, headed by Harry and Diana Zhabilov and supported by the medical consultants Dr. Lachezar Ivanov, Prof. Dolashka, Dr. V. Topalova, and S. Stoev the executive director of the Vetprom manufacturing facility, part of the French concern Danson, have made great strides with the GMP production of ITV-1 as well as the FDA registered nutraceutical food supplement IPF Immune.

IPF Immune's recent introduction into the U.S. market has been met with great enthusiasm, quickly selling out. Our product is sold over multiple on-line sites including Amazon and Wal-Mart. The Company has received many testimonials from users of IPF stating that they, individually, have experienced positive effects from IPF's use on their bodies immune system. In response to the success of IPF Immune in the US market, VIRO has received inquiries from several European countries including Spain, Germany, Romania, Greece, and Bulgaria and is now in the process of registering IPF Immune in Europe.

VIRO is also in the process of completing the application with the United Stated Federal Drug Administration (the "FDA") for two new additional nutraceutical products developed by Dr. Lachezar Ivanov. The products will be for detoxification of the brain and detoxification of the liver. The liver detox is currently registered and being sold in Bulgaria. The brain detox initial registration application will be filed with the FDA and subject to its approval.

Harry Zhabilov, CSO of VIRO and ENZC stated, "I am proud of the success and progress that the VIRO Team has brought to ENZC through the two products currently being manufactured and developed in Bulgaria. With the expansion of the nutraceutical product line and our first administration of the ITV-1 immunotherapy in Africa, we believe that in the last half of 2023, great strides will be made toward fulfilling my vision for the ITV-1 family of products. The potential of additional funding through the previously discussed SPAC transaction will increase the opportunities for further product development especially with the Multiple Sclerosis application patent being developed."

Enzolytics, Inc. Overview

Enzolytics, Inc. is a drug development company committed to commercializing its proprietary proteins and monoclonal antibodies to treat debilitating infectious diseases. The Company is advancing multiple therapeutics targeting numerous infectious diseases. One patented and clinically tested compound, ITV-1 (Immune Therapeutic Vaccine-1), is a suspension of Inactivated Pepsin Fraction (IPF), covered by U.S. Patent Nos. 8,066,982 and 7,479,538. Studies have shown it to be effective in treating HIV/AIDS. ITV-1 has also been shown to modulate the immune system.

The Company has proprietary technology for producing fully human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against infectious diseases which is currently being employed to produce monoclonal antibody therapeutics for treating the CoronaVirus (SARS-CoV-2), HIV-1 and the Feline Leukemia virus. The Company has also identified conserved epitopes on and has plans to produce mAbs targeting many other viruses, including HIV-2, Influenza A and B, H1N1 influenza, Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Small-Pox, Ebola Virus, Tetanus, Diphtheria, HTLV-1/2, Rabies, Herpes zoster, Varicella zoster, Anthrax, Mason-Pfizer monkey virus (MPMV) and Visna virus (VISNA). The Company has also analyzed epitopes of animal viruses and plans to produce mAbs for treating these animal viruses.

Safe Harbor Statement : This news release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties associated with financial projections, budgets, milestone timelines, clinical development, regulatory approvals, and other risks described by Enzolytics, Inc. from time to time in its periodic reports filed with the SEC. ITV-1 is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or by any comparable regulatory agencies elsewhere in the world.

While Enzolytics, Inc. believes that the forward-looking statements and underlying assumptions contained therein are reasonable, any of the assumptions could be inaccurate, including, but not limited to, the ability of Enzolytics to establish the efficacy of its therapeutics in the treatment of any disease or health condition, the development of studies and strategies leading to commercialization of its therapeutics in the United States, the obtaining of funding required to carry out the development plan, the completion of studies and tests on time or at all, and the successful outcome of such studies or tests. Therefore, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements included in this release will prove to be accurate.

Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations. They involve inherent risks and uncertainties, including factors that could delay, divert or change any of the statements made, and cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from current expectations. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update the forward-looking statements or update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Company Contact:

Enzolytics, Inc.

1101 Raintree Circle

Allen, Texas 75013

www.enzolytics.com

SOURCE: Enzolytics, Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/753400/Virogentics-Inc-Announces-Pilot-Clinical-Trial-of-ITV-1-at-National-Center-for-Endocrinology-in-Bulgaria-and-Expansion-of-Nutraceutical-Line




Fortune Business Insights

Key companies covered in wardrobe market are Oppein Home Group (China), California Closets (U.S), Mobilspazio Srl (Italy), hulsta-werke Huls GmbH & Co. KG (Germany), Closets by Design, Inc. (U.S.), Closet Factory (U.S.), Molteni&C S.p.A (Italy), Lema s.p.a (Italy), Wurfel (India), Spacewood (India), and more players profiled.

Pune, India, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global wardrobe market size was valued at USD 59.97 billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow from USD 62.97 billion in 2023 to USD 94.59 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.98% during the forecast period. A wardrobe/cabinetry/closet is a piece of furniture equipped with shelves, hanging spaces, and drawers for storing clothes, accessories, and shoes. Numerous examples of new product launches by major industry players demonstrate the expansion of the industry. New product launches will increase the global market share of wardrobes in the coming years.

Fortune Business Insights provide this information in its report titled "Wardrobe Market, 2023-2030."

Get a Free Sample Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/wardrobe-market-104634

List of Key Players Profiled in the Wardrobe Market Report:

Oppein Home Group (China)

California Closets (U.S)

Mobilspazio Srl (Italy)

hulsta-werke Huls GmbH & Co. KG (Germany)

Closets by Design, Inc. (U.S.)

Closet Factory (U.S.)

Molteni&C S.p.A (Italy)

Lema s.p.a (Italy)

Wurfel (India)

Spacewood (India)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attributes Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 5.98% 2030 Value Projection USD 94.59 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 59.97 Billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 196 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Material

By Category

By Application

By Distribution Channel

By Region Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Wardrobe Market Growth Drivers Increasing Popularity of Interior Design and Home Decor to Favor Market Expansion Rapidly Evolving Housing and Hotel Industry to Accelerate Product Adoption

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/wardrobe-market-104634

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Segmentation:

Various Advantages to Accelerate Demand for Wooden Cabinetry

On the basis of material analysis, the global wardrobe market is fragmented into metal, wood, glass, and others. The wood segment held the largest market share in 2022, owing to the high demand for high-quality cabinetry with superior resistance and strength. The property of durability of wood cabinetry makes them a reliable investment. Additionally, these closets are easy to manage and maintain and are available in various designs and shades.

Easy Affordability and Maintenance to Boost Manually-operated Closet Sales

Based on category analysis, the market is segmented into automated and manual. The manual segment held the largest market share in 2022 due to easy maintenance, availability, and affordable product cost.

Rising Urbanization to Boost Product Sales in the Residential Sector

According to application analysis, the global market is divided into commercial and residential based on application. The residential segment is anticipated to dominate the market due to increasing number of households worldwide contributes to segmental growth.

Offline Segment to Retain its Importance during the Forecast Period

Based on distribution channel analysis, the market is divided into online and offline. The offline segment is estimated to hold the largest market share over the forecast period as it allows customers to inspect the products quality and attributes physically.

Geographically, market is analysed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and Middle East & Africa.

COVID-19 Impact:

COVID-19 Pandemic Caused Product Demand Fall Hindering Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted product sales as many countries imposed lockdowns in 2020 to curb the spread of the virus. This factor has caused serious supply chain disruptions, raw material shortages, and production delays. In addition, sales of products decreased due to the temporary closure of furniture workshops and stores, mainly in 2020. However, in 2021, the market gradually recovered as a significant number of people around the world withdrew into their homes and engaged in interior design and DIY. In this regard, the increasing role of the home as a center of work and education has increased the demand for all types of home furnishing products.

Get a Quote Now:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/wardrobe-market-104634

Report Coverage:

The report offers:

Major growth drivers, restraining factors, opportunities, and potential challenges for the market.

Comprehensive insights into regional developments.

List of major industry players.

Key strategies adopted by the market players.

Recent industry developments include product launches, partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions.

Drivers and Restraints:

Rising Popularity of Home Decor and Demand for Customized Furniture to Propel Market Growth

The increasing use of furniture for interior and home decoration has spurred product demand. The cabinet can be customized to suit the needs of the user and the color, texture and style of the room fueling global wardrobe market growth. Manufacturers also focus on creating cabinets in various finishes, designs, and materials that add aesthetic beauty to a room and provide ample space for storing clothes and accessories.

For example, Alsorg, a furniture manufacturer based in Gurugram, India, launched in December 2020 his two new glass cabinets intended to add luxury to bedrooms. Cabinets are available in a variety of finishes, colors and materials. This product is designed to extend your bedroom into a dressing room.

However, rising consumer awareness regarding deforestation and loss of biodiversity is set to hamper the market growth.

Regional Insights

Numerous Small and Large Companies Invested in Asia Pacific Region to Drive Market Growth

Asia Pacific held the largest part in global wardrobe market share in 2022. The region is an important manufacturing region with many large and small companies such as Godrej Interio, IKEA, Suofeiya, and PA Cabinets. Increasing furniture production in countries such as China, India, and Japan will further expand the Asia Pacific market.

North America will be one of the key markets in 2022, benefiting from rising trends in home decor and interior design. North American consumers prefer cabinets in different colors, designs and materials to make their rooms look more attractive. The development of the local hotel industry continues to contribute to expanding the market.

European wardrobe designs typically complement a variety of interior design/home decor elements, from furniture and floors to lighting; similar to international market trends, wood options are the most popular in European homes. European furniture manufacturers usually prefer oak as their primary raw material due to its abundant and cheap availability in European countries.

Competitive Landscape:

Market Players Focus on New Product Launches to Strengthen Market Position

Leading companies in the market companies are competing to increase their market share by providing solutions that are specific to particular sectors. These players strategically work with and take over local rivals to gain a solid regional footing. In October 2022, Carlton London expanded its home furnishings range in India through Flipkart, by introducing its range of furniture the website. The brands Home products include closets, beds, sofas, mattresses, and TV units under its furniture range.

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https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/wardrobe-market-104634

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 Overview of the Parent Market Industry SWOT Analysis Supply Chain and Regulatory Landscape Market Analysis and Insights (in Relation with COVID-19) Impact of COVID-19 on the Market Supply Chain Challenges due to the Pandemic Potential Opportunities to Support the Market

Global Wardrobe Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast By Material Wood Metal Glass Others By Category Manual Automated By Application Residential Commercial By Distribution Channel Online Offline By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa



TOC Continued...!

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Key Industry Development:

October 2022: OPPEIN Group opened its new store in Zimbabwe. The company further plans to expand in various other cities across the country.

Read Related Insights:

Furniture Market Size to Reach USD 720.2 Billion by 2028 | CAGR of 5.05%

Furniture Rental Service Market Worth USD 139.05 Billion by 2029 | Furniture Rental Service Industry Expected CAGR 9.6%

Pet Furniture Market Size to Worth USD 5.70 Billion by 2029 | Fortune Business Insights

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Shareholders attend Berkshire Hathaways annual shareholders meeting in Omaha to get insights on business, economic, and investment matters from Warren Buffett and his longtime business partner Charlie Munger.

More from Fortune: 5 side hustles where you may earn over $20,000 per yearall while working from home Looking to make extra cash? This CD has a 5.15% APY right now Buying a house? Here's how much to save This is how much money you need to earn annually to comfortably buy a $600,000 home

Yet this year, attendees also angled to get a glimpse of another Berkshire executive: Greg Abel, the conglomerates vice-chairman for its noninsurance operations and Buffetts designated successor as CEO. Shareholders and visitors mobbed the Berkshire executive for photos and selfies as Abel walked the floor on Saturday.

Succession questions are top-of-mind for Berkshire Hathaways shareholders, after the 92-year-old Buffetts over-50-year tenure as the conglomerates CEO and chairman.

Buffett told AGM attendees on Saturday that he was 100% comfortable with Abel as his CEO-in-waiting. Berkshires CEO said the company was lucky to have Abel, who would make decisions very much in the same framework as I would make them.

Greg understands capital allocation as well as I do, Buffett said.

Abel, too, said on Saturday that he would follow the philosophy set down by both Buffett and Munger. The framework has been laid out, he noted.

Who is Greg Abel?

Berkshire Hathaway appointed Greg Abel as CEO of Berkshire-owned MidAmerican Energy in 2008, and the division was later renamed Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 2014.

Abel has been in the running for CEO of Berkshire Hathaway since 2018, when the company elevated him to the vice-chair position alongside fellow executive Ajit Jain.

The company publicly confirmed Abel as Buffetts successor in 2021, when Munger let slip during that years shareholders meeting that the executive would keep the culture of Berkshire Hathaway. Buffett confirmed later that day that Abel would take over tomorrow morning if anything happened to the Berkshire Hathaway CEO.

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Abel joined Buffett on his trip to Japan in April, where the current CEO sang his praises. Abel does all the work, and I take the bowsits exactly what I wanted, Buffett told CNBC at the time.

We think alike on acquisitions. We think alike on capital allocation, he said. [Abels] a big improvement on me.

Berkshire Hathaway invested more in energy last year, buying shares in oil and gas companies Occidental Petroleum and Chevron. Yet the company also plans to direct $70 billion toward renewable energy projects over the next decade, though Abel admitted Saturday that it will be a long journey before the conglomerate sees a return on equity.

When will Abel take over as CEO?

Theres no indication that Buffett is stepping down anytime soon. Ronald Olson, one of Berkshire Hathaways directors, told an investment conference on Thursday, before the companys annual meeting, that a transition is still a good number of years off, according to Reuters.

Dont count on Greg to take [Berkshire Hathaway] over tomorrow, he said, noting that Mungers mind is as good as it ever was, as is Buffetts.

But Buffett was clear on Saturday that whenever he decides to step down, Abel would take over the conglomerate.

Theres no second choice for Berkshire CEO, Buffett said on Saturday. If something happened to Greg, I would tell the directors they have a problem.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

More from Fortune:

5 side hustles where you may earn over $20,000 per yearall while working from home

Looking to make extra cash? This CD has a 5.15% APY right now

Buying a house? Here's how much to save

This is how much money you need to earn annually to comfortably buy a $600,000 home


Welcome back, team. Phil Rosen here, reporting from New York.

While I was enjoying NBA games and "Succession" this weekend, my colleague Theron Mohamed was rubbing shoulders and shaking hands with some of the world's top investors in Omaha for Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meeting.

Before we get to the news, we've got a dispatch from Theron  our in-house Warren Buffett expert  on the legendary conference.

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

Warren Buffett speaks onstage

Warren BuffettPaul Morigi/Getty Images

1. "A carnival, a rock concert, and a cult." That's how Todd Finkle, the author of a new biography on Buffett, described the investor's yearly bash.

It's a truly unique experience to sit in a stadium packed to the rafters with people who have traveled from around the world not to "Shake It Off" with Taylor Swift, but to watch two guys in their 90s answer questions about investing and dispense life advice.

In between swigs of Coca-Cola and mouthfuls of See's Candies, Buffett and his business partner, Charlie Munger, tackled topics ranging from the grim outlook for banks and real estate to Elon Musk's grand ambitions, the risks posed by AI, and the prospect of de-dollarization.

The dynamic duo entertained the rapt audience with funny anecdotes, witty repartee, and an exclusive movie featuring a besotted Jamie Lee Curtis fawning over Munger.

There were also investment panels, cocktail parties, steak dinners, fun runs, and shopping events during the weekend.

In the true spirit of "Woodstock for Capitalists," shareholders lined up in droves to buy Buffett and Munger Squishmallows and other merchandise at the Berkshire Bazaar of Bargains. They also piled into shuttles and journeyed to Buffett's prized jewelry store, Borsheims.

The hot topics among Buffett loyalists included Berkshire's surprise paring of its Taiwan Semiconductor stake last winter (Buffett cited geopolitical concerns about China), and its polarizing decision to plow tens of billions of dollars into two fossil-fuel companies, Chevron and Occidental Petroleum.

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Berkshire shareholders said they felt reenergized by the weekend's activities, and couldn't wait to return next year.

Have a question about the Omaha weekend? Tweet (@Theron_Mohamed) or email (tmohamed@insider.com).

In other news:

nyse

REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

2. US stock futures are flat early Monday. Check out the latest market moves.

3. Earnings on deck: Tyson Foods, BioNTech, and DISH Network, all reporting.

4. Morgan Stanley recommends buying into this batch of highly efficient stocks that could hold strong the rest of the year. Earnings are set to decline as the economy falters, but analysts are confident this list of 41 names will continue to deliver. See the full list.

5. US officials are looking into possible market manipulation of regional bank stocks. Volatility in the sector is drawing scrutiny, as there are solid fundamentals like stable deposits, one source told Reuters. A banking association is asking the SEC to stop short-bets on bank stocks.

6. The stock market could become "untouchable" if the bank crisis keeps spiraling. That's what Fundstrat's Tom Lee said in a recent note, adding that any intervention raises too many tail risk issues across the economy and in commercial real estate.

7. Fears of de-dollarization are overblown, according to Bank of America. But there's still reason to be cautious as US brinkmanship and rising debt could threaten the strength of the greenback. Read more.

8. Four of the world's top investors agree on the biggest risks that will cause the next recession. With a combined half a trillion dollars in assets, here's how each of them plan to protect clients in the months ahead.

9. The president of Nationwide's $175 billion retirement business shared his top tips for savers. He broke down three common blunders to avoid in your finances  and how to save "a couple hundred thousand dollars" by age 30.

Apple stock

Markets Insider

10. Strong Apple earnings helped ease investor concerns of a possible iPhone slowdown. The stock jumped on Friday after the latest report exceeded analyst expectations. Wedbush analysts said Apple delivered "another masterpiece performance."

Curated by Phil Rosen in New York. Feedback or tips? Tweet @philrosenn or email prosen@insider.com. Edited by Max Adams (@maxradams) in New York.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) - One of the biggest hits from the just-concluded annual love fest for Warren Buffett showed the enduring popularity of the investing legend: plush, squishy toys featuring the billionaire and his business partner Charlie Munger.

On Friday, the start of Berkshire Hathaway Inc's three-day shareholder weekend, thousands thronged a convention hall in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, for five hours to buy discounted products from many Berkshire-owned brands.

For many, the $9.99 Squishmallows featuring Buffett and Munger, made by Berkshire's recently acquired toy company Jazwares, were the must-have memento.

Omaha police cut off a long line to buy them two hours early. "No more sales," one officer said.

Michelle Young, of Cottonwood, Arizona, who once ran a pottery studio, was able to snag a pair, saying she was "fascinated by Warren and Charlie."

About 10,000 Buffett and Munger Squishmallows were sold, and by Monday they were fetching as much as $255 at auction on eBay.

Jazwares, whose former parent Alleghany Corp was acquired by Berkshire in October, declined to comment on secondary sales. EBay Inc did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Those who traveled to Omaha for the weekend included many first-timers as well as others who have gone for decades.

Many said they were anxious to see Buffett and Munger - who are 92 and 99, respectively - while they still could. Some pledged to return even after they are no longer around or if the events are pared back.

'ONE IN A TRILLION'

On Saturday, Buffett and Munger appeared before a full house in the city's 18,300-seat downtown arena. Thousands of shareholders lined up hours before doors opened at 7 a.m. to see them.

"They're old, and I want to see them once in my life," said Ziyi Ruan from Shanghai, who works in marketing for an electric-vehicle company, and said he arrived at 2 a.m.

Berkshire's weekend attracts tens of thousands of people, and among annual events in Omaha only the College World Series generates more business for the city.

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Cissy Zhang, a business consultant from Madison, Wisconsin, attending with her 5-year-old son and her parents, who both flew in from China, said she would attend "at least one more time. To operate this whole thing is teamwork. It's not just one man."

Richard Callahan, a local banker, expects attendance to drop without what he called the "panache" of Buffett and Munger, but said he will still go.

But while shareholders expressed comfort in Berkshire's long-term planning, many were skeptical when asked if the weekend would remain a big draw without Buffett, Munger or both.

"No," said Bill Smead, who runs Smead Capital Management in Phoenix. "These two guys were one in a trillion."

Berkshire declined to comment on Monday.

'CONTAGIOUS' ENTHUSIASM

For decades, Berkshire has been planning for the eventuality when Buffett, who has run the company since 1965 and Munger, a vice chairman since 1978, are no longer there.

Greg Abel, who oversees non-insurance operations, is slated to become chief executive, while Todd Combs and Ted Weschler, who handle some investments, could take over all of them.

Ajit Jain would keep oversight of insurance. And Buffett's eldest son, Howard, would become nonexecutive chairman.

At Saturday's meeting, Buffett and Munger discussed among many topics how mismanagement and greed were causes of this year's banking-sector turmoil.

They also agreed that artificial intelligence could disrupt many industries - though Munger said "old-fashioned intelligence" worked well too.

"You come to hear the same wonderful message and receive a refresher and right-set your mind," said Mark Blakley, a Tulsa, Oklahoma, corporate benefits supervisor at his 14th meeting.

First-time attendee Jennifer Koon, a public relations executive from Roswell, Georgia, plans to return.

"The culture among short and long-term attendees was enviable and their enthusiasm contagious," she said in an email on Sunday. "I'd challenge you to find that kind of loyalty among owners of other stocks."

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in Omaha, Nebraska; Editing by Megan Davies and Matthew Lewis)
Good morning!

More from Fortune: 5 side hustles where you may earn over $20,000 per yearall while working from home Looking to make extra cash? This CD has a 5.15% APY right now Buying a house? Here's how much to save This is how much money you need to earn annually to comfortably buy a $600,000 home

A recent conversation between Fortunes Phil Wahba and PepsiCos CHRO Ronald Schellekens caught my attention. Schellekens shared that PepsiCo has neverand as far as hes concerned, will neverwaver on its unique commitment to hiring 2,000 U.S. graduates each year. Cut to my immediate reaction: In this economy?

The conversation, part of an exclusive Fortune Connect panel, detailed how the food and beverage juggernaut stays true to its people as assets approach. Many companies invest in management and leadership training, but few do it as systematically as PepsiCo, wrote Phil in his December feature detailing the food and beverage giant's leadership development strategy.

Though hiring 2,000 graduates annually is not a formalized commitment in writing, Schellekens says it's necessary for building a robust talent pipeline. That requires, I think, a kind of institutionalized culture where we say, 'Okay, this is the belief of the company. This is how we build leaders for the future.'

Many of today's Fortune 500 CEOs had career pit stops at PepsiCo. There's Brian Cornell at Target, Lauren Hobart at Dicks Sporting Goods, and Dave Kimbell at Ulta Beauty, to name a few. In total, 16 current Fortune 500 CEOs have previously worked at PepsiCo.

Our early hiring programs are vital to this effort of building a pipeline, and were proud that weve been tracking roughly the same number over at least the past two recruitment cycles, shared a spokesperson for PepsiCo. This is purely based on hiring needs and the belief in our college [and] university hiring programs.

PepsiCo's approach to internal career growth has earned it the reputation of a "talent academy," and it's always assessing workers' potential, Schellekens says. We dont like it when people leave our company and become CHRO or CEO of another company, but they always leave us for much bigger jobs...They always make a big jump.

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Amber Burton

amber.burton@fortune.com

@amberbburton

Editors Note: Do you utilize A.I. in your people practice? Let us know! You could be featured in our upcoming edition of Fortune @ Worka comprehensive package all about the future of HR.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

More from Fortune:

5 side hustles where you may earn over $20,000 per yearall while working from home

Looking to make extra cash? This CD has a 5.15% APY right now

Buying a house? Here's how much to save

This is how much money you need to earn annually to comfortably buy a $600,000 home


Zion Market Research

[222+ Pages Report] According to Zion Market Research, the global wine barrels market size was valued at around USD 1.007 billion in 2022 and is estimated to grow about USD 1.365 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of approximately 5.20% between 2023 and 2030. The key market players are listed in the report with their sales, revenues and strategies are Seguin Moreau Napa Cooperage, Tonnellerie Francois Freres, Bouchard Cooperages, Demptos Napa Cooperage, Canton Cooperage, StaVin Inc., World Cooperage, Trust Cooperage, Tonnellerie O, Nadalie USA Inc., G & P Garbellotto S.p.A., Taransaud Tonnellerie, The Oak Cooperage, and others.

NEW YORK, United States, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zion Market Research has published a new research report titled Wine Barrels Market By Capacity (Puncheon, Barrique, And Hogshead), By Toast Level Type (Heavy Toast, Medium Plus Toast, Medium Toast, And Light Toast), By Oak Type (Eastern European Oak, American Oak, And French Oak), And By Region - Global And Regional Industry Overview, Market Intelligence, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Data, And Forecasts 2023  2030 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand of global Wine Barrels Market size & share in terms of revenue was valued at USD 1.007 billion in 2022 and it is expected to surpass around USD 1.365 billion mark by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 5.20% during the forecast period 2023 to 2030.

What are Wine Barrels? How big is the Wine Barrels Industry?

Report Overview:

The term "wine barrels industry" refers to the business of buying and selling oak barrels that are used in the ageing process of wine. These barrels are utilized in the manufacturing of wine. Due to the fact that flavour, fragrance, and texture of the wine may all be significantly impacted by the barrels, winemakers consider these containers to be among the most important instruments in their arsenal.

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There is a wide range of sizes available for barrels, but the Burgundy barrel (228 litres) and the Bordeaux barrel (225 litres) are the ones that are utilised most frequently in the business. Oak from several countries is utilised in the production of wine barrels, with the most common type being French oak, followed by American oak. It is anticipated that the business will experience great expansion as a result of the rising consumption of wine in countries all over the world. On the other hand, over the period covered by the projections, it is projected that participants will face some hurdles, which may decrease the growth rate.

Click Here To Access Free Sample Report of the Global Wine Barrels Market @ https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/sample/wine-barrels-market



(A free sample of this report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)

Our Free Sample Report Consists of the Following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2023 updated report.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package

About 222+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on Request

Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2023

Includes Tables and figures have been updated

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Zion Market Research methodology





(Please note that the sample of this report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

Global Wine Barrels Market: Growth Factors

Increasing consumer demand for wines of superior quality will fuel market expansion.

It is anticipated that the global market for wine barrels would expand as a result of the growing demand for wines of superior quality all over the world. As people drink more wine, they are becoming more knowledgeable about the quality of wine; as a result, there has been an increase in the demand for aged wine that possesses exceptional characteristics such as texture and aroma. This is due to the fact that people are drinking more wine. In addition to this, there are important aspects of the industry such as the rise in the number of restaurants, cafes, and hotels that serve pricey and high-quality wine. This is an important part of the industry. These kinds of characteristics ultimately lead to a greater promotion of the drink. Additionally, it contributes to the development of a better product or brand awareness, to be more specific. Increasing tourism, which in turn leads to an increase in the number of people who like the foods and drinks of other nations and their cultures, has been a big contributor to the increased demand for excellent wine, which in turn has had an impact on the need for good-quality wine barrels.

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Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2022 USD 1.007 Billion Projected Market Size in 2030 USD 1.365 Billion CAGR Growth Rate 5.20% CAGR Base Year 2022 Forecast Years 2023-2030 Key Market Players Seguin Moreau Napa Cooperage, Tonnellerie Francois Freres, Bouchard Cooperages, Demptos Napa Cooperage, Canton Cooperage, StaVin Inc., World Cooperage, Trust Cooperage, Tonnellerie O, Nadalie USA Inc., G & P Garbellotto S.p.A., Taransaud Tonnellerie, The Oak Cooperage, Tonnellerie Radoux USA, Vicard Cooperage, Saury USA, Artisan Barrels, Kadar Hungary Ltd., Tonnellerie Sylvain, A.P. John Cooperage Inc., Seguin Moreau Napa, The Barrel Mill, Tonnellerie Cadus, Seguin Moreau, and Boutes Tonnellerie. Key Segment By Capacity, By Toast Level Type, By Oak Type, And By Region Major Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East &, Africa Purchase Options Request customized purchase options to meet your research needs. Explore purchase options

Wine Barrels Market: Segmentation Analysis

The market for wine barrels is broken down into submarkets based on capacity, toast level, type of oak, and geographic location.

Puncheons, barriques, and hogsheads make up the three primary sectors of the global market according to capacity. Although the region and the tradition of winemaking in the country both play a role in determining the most common capacity of wine barrels, the barrique, the puncheon, and the hogshead are the capacities that are used the most frequently. A barrique is a type of tiny wine barrel that has a capacity of 225 litres and is used to store wine. It has a wide range of applications across the various regions of France as well as other countries in Europe. The United Kingdom and Australia are the two most common locations for the use of larger barrels known as hogsheads. These barrels may carry up to 300 litres of wine. A puncheon, on the other hand, is a very large barrel that has the capacity to hold close to 500 litres of wine and is utilised more frequently in the wine-producing countries of Spain, Portugal, and certain regions of Italy. In 2022, barrique was the most successful segment in terms of earning money.

The wine barrels sector is divided into four different segments according on the level of toasting: heavy toast, medium plus toast, medium toast, and light toast.

On the basis of the type of oak, the global market can be broken down as follows: Eastern European oak, American Oak, and French Oak. Due to the fact that French oak is widely regarded as the most prominent form of wood for use in the production of wine, the industry as a whole saw significant expansion in this sector. Additionally, it is only utilised in the production of the highest quality wines anywhere in the world. When compared to French oak, American oak is known to impart more vanilla, coconut, and dill flavours to the wine. As a result, American oak is the most popular type of oak in the regions of the United States and Australia. In general, Hungarian and Romanian oak make up what is known as Eastern European wood, and they are the ones responsible for lending the wine flavours of spiciness, toastiness, and even occasionally smokiness. The earliest evidence of wine, which goes back to approximately 6,000 B.C. and was unearthed in what is now the country of Georgia, was found there.

The global Wine Barrels market is segmented as follows:

By Capacity

Puncheon

Barrique

Hogshead

By Toast Level Type

Heavy Toast

Medium Plus Toast

Medium Toast

Light Toast

By Oak Type

Eastern European Oak

American Oak

French Oak

Browse the full Wine Barrels Market By Capacity (Puncheon, Barrique, And Hogshead), By Toast Level Type (Heavy Toast, Medium Plus Toast, Medium Toast, And Light Toast), By Oak Type (Eastern European Oak, American Oak, And French Oak), And By Region - Global And Regional Industry Overview, Market Intelligence, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Data, And Forecasts 2023  2030" Report at https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/report/wine-barrels-market



Competitive Landscape

Some of the main competitors dominating the global Wine Barrels market include -

Seguin Moreau Napa Cooperage

Tonnellerie Francois Freres

Bouchard Cooperages

Demptos Napa Cooperage

Canton Cooperage

StaVin Inc.

World Cooperage

Trust Cooperage

Tonnellerie O

Nadalie USA Inc.

G & P Garbellotto S.p.A.

Taransaud Tonnellerie

The Oak Cooperage

Tonnellerie Radoux USA

Vicard Cooperage

Saury USA

Artisan Barrels

Kadar Hungary Ltd.

Tonnellerie Sylvain

A.P. John Cooperage Inc.

Seguin Moreau Napa

The Barrel Mill

Tonnellerie Cadus

Seguin Moreau

Boutes Tonnellerie.

Key Insights from Primary Research:

According to the analysis shared by our research forecaster, the Wine Barrels market is likely to expand at a CAGR of around 5.20% during the forecast period (2023-2030).

In terms of revenue, the Wine Barrels market size was valued at around US$ 1.007 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach US$ 1.365 billion by 2030.

The wine barrels market is projected to grow at a significant rate due to the growing demand for high-quality wine.

Based on capacity segmentation, barrique was predicted to show maximum market share in the year 2022.

Based on oak type segmentation, French oak was the leading type in 2022.

On the basis of region, Europe was the leading revenue generator in 2022.

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/inquiry/wine-barrels-market



Key questions answered in this report:

What is the market size and growth rate forecast for Wine Barrels industry?

What are the main driving factors propelling the Wine Barrels Market forward?

What are the leading companies in the Wine Barrels Industry?

What segments does the Wine Barrels Market cover?

How can I receive a free copy of the Wine Barrels Market sample report and company profiles?

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20232030

Market Dynamics  Leading Trends, Growth Drivers, Restraints, and Investment Opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis By Capacity, By Toast Level Type, By Oak Type, And By Region

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

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(We tailor your report to meet your specific research requirements. Inquire with our sales team about customising your report.)

Regional Analysis:

The global wine barrels market is projected to witness the highest growth in Europe during the forecast period since it is the largest producer and consumer of wine barrels. In Europe, France is expected to take the lead mainly due to the country being considered as best for wine aging processes, especially in the production of high-end wine. Other countries such as Spain and Italy also have a strong hold over the regional market due to the drink being a popular choice of beverage amongst consumer groups. Furthermore, the long history of several parts of Europe with winemaking has allowed it to continue its dominance.

North America is expected to become the second leading region in the global industry due to the popularity of American oak. California is home to some of the most renowned wineries using large barrels to age wine and exports it to other parts of the world.

By Region

North America U.S. Canada Rest of North America

Europe France UK Spain Germany Italy Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa Saudi Arabia South Africa Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America



Recent Developments

In November 2020, Sula Vineyards, a leading winery established in 1999 in India, launched a new flavor of barrel-aged wine with its Blue Tokai coffee roasters. The product has undergone multiple years of trials and tests to reach the perfect blend and was finally launched during the SulaFest 2020. The coffee beans are fermented in wine barrels and come with subtle hints of dark chocolate, grapes, tannins, oak, and black currant

In February 2021, Starward Australian Whisky announced the addition of Left-Field whisky, a new product in its existing line of drinks. The new whisky range has been matured in 100% French oak red wine barrels imported from the regions of Yarra Valley and Barossa Valley. The wines include Cabernet, Shiraz, and Pinot Noir.

To know an additional revised 2023 list of market players, request a brochure of the report: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/requestbrochure/wine-barrels-market



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Wine and Champagne Gifts

VIENNA, Va., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This Mother's Day, simplify your gift-giving with superior wine gifts that cater to all wine preferences, are simple to personalize, and can be paired with cheese, crackers, snacks, chocolates, and other delectable treats.



Your mother has always been there for you through thick and thin, and there is no way to adequately repay her. But sending an affectionate gift to her and making her feel appreciated for what she has done for you is a must, especially on occasions like Mother's Day, which are dedicated to mothers out there.

A similar intent is shared by Wine & Champagne Gifts, which offers an exclusive selection of Mother's Day Wine Gifts designed to convey thoughtfulness and genuine indulgence. And currently, they have a deal for Mother's Day that offers 10% off orders up to $100.

Mothers Day Wine Gifts Collection by Wine & Champagne Gifts

The latest Mother's Day Wine Gifts Collection from the Wine & Champagne Gifts Store has much to discover. There is a vast selection of gourmet assortments, including classic wines and premium indulgences such as chocolates, cheese, crackers, spreads, olives, and more. Whether your mother has a sweet tooth, a snacking love, or a passion for putting her culinary skills to the test, there is a gift basket for her.

Now, any of the gift baskets can be coupled with a wine of your choosing, and the wine options are practically endless! There are a variety of red wine expressions, ranging from robust cabernet to mellow merlot and beyond, produced in world-renowned wine regions such as Tuscany and Napa. There is dazzle too with sparkling wines, from baller champagnes to classic proseccos from renowned brands like Veuve Clicquot, Dom Perignon, and La Marca.

In addition, you have the choice of sending your mother a hand-painted or custom-printed bottle of wine that has been personalized just for her. You can even add a touching message such as "Happy Mother's Day, Mom" or "Best Mom Ever" to make it even more personal.

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Whatever gift option you choose, it is hand-selected with a high level of expertise and delivered to the recipient's door with on-time delivery and customer support to eliminate any unforeseen challenges.

Check out the Mother's Day Wine Gifts Collection of Wine & Champagne Gifts to find a gift that will make this Mother's Day memorable for all the right reasons.

Top Mothers Day Gifts From Wine & Champagne Gifts Store:

Godiva Chocolates And Jordan Cabernet Wine Gift Basket - If your mother enjoys wine and sweets, this is an impressive assortment. This wine gift basket consists of a robust cabernet sauvignon by Jordan and an assortment of premium chocolates with rich flavors, including almonds, caramels, and cashews.





Hand Painted La Marca Prosecco Bottle - What could be more heartwarming than a prosecco bottle adorned with a beautiful pattern and set to shower Mother's Day with its glitz and elegance? Send this hand-painted prosecco bottle of La Marca, which is favored by sparkling wine lovers for its refreshing flavor, fruity aromas, and lively texture.





Dom Perignon Lady Gaga Brut Gourmet Delight Gift Basket - This champagne gift basket is the ideal present for your mother if she is a fan of bubbly or a snack hoarder. Dom Perignon Lady Gaga Brut is paired with crackers, olives, cookies, brownies, and other delectable snacks. Every second spent with this pairing seems like bliss.





Personalized Cakebread Cellars Napa Valley Cabernet - How about sending your mother a bottle of red wine that is rushed with finesse and adorned with personalized notes? Here, Cakebread Cellars' classic Napa cabernet is carved with a sincere "Thank You" that will leave your mother teary-eyed and allow her to enjoy the mesmerizing aromas and notes of blackberry, cassis, vanilla, and spice.



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The main aim of stock picking is to find the market-beating stocks. But the main game is to find enough winners to more than offset the losers At this point some shareholders may be questioning their investment in Wing Tai Holdings Limited (SGX:W05), since the last five years saw the share price fall 27%.

So let's have a look and see if the longer term performance of the company has been in line with the underlying business' progress.

Check out our latest analysis for Wing Tai Holdings

While the efficient markets hypothesis continues to be taught by some, it has been proven that markets are over-reactive dynamic systems, and investors are not always rational. 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.

During the unfortunate half decade during which the share price slipped, Wing Tai Holdings actually saw its earnings per share (EPS) improve by 32% per year. So it doesn't seem like EPS is a great guide to understanding how the market is valuing the stock. Alternatively, growth expectations may have been unreasonable in the past.

Due to the lack of correlation between the EPS growth and the falling share price, it's worth taking a look at other metrics to try to understand the share price movement.

In contrast to the share price, revenue has actually increased by 11% a year in the five year period. A more detailed examination of the revenue and earnings may or may not explain why the share price languishes; there could be an opportunity.

The graphic below depicts how earnings and revenue have changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image).

You can see how its balance sheet has strengthened (or weakened) over time in this free interactive graphic.

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. As it happens, Wing Tai Holdings' TSR for the last 5 years was -15%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!

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A Different Perspective

Wing Tai Holdings shareholders are down 6.9% for the year (even including dividends), but the market itself is up 0.5%. Even the share prices of good stocks drop sometimes, but we want to see improvements in the fundamental metrics of a business, before getting too interested. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 3% 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. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with Wing Tai Holdings (at least 1 which can't be ignored) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

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 Singaporean 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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Royal Jordanian (RJ) will host the annual general meeting of ZEDMIBA Forum, an umbrella organization managed by IATA, on May 9 in Amman in collaboration with the Jordan Tourism Board.



In line with RJs new tourism strategy and the focus on incoming tourists to Jordan, the event will bring together 85 global airlines in a closed meeting in Amman, often covering concerns regarding airline employees' personal and duty travel.



The ZEDMIBA Forum comprises ZED, which is for leisure travel, and MIBA, which is for duty travel. It comprises over 260 member airlines from around the globe, participating in the ZED (Zonal Employee Discount) and the MIBA (Multilateral Interline Business Agreement) programs. ZED and MIBA conditions may be applied for travel on and by other airlines, as bilaterally agreed or by the airline's employees traveling on its flights.



RJ chief commercial officer Karime Makhlouf said: Our vision is to make RJ a leading carrier in the Levant, project Jordan worldwide, and encourage tourism to the country. Therefore, this gathering - like many others that we are pleased to host - will help introduce Jordan's culture, heritage, and tourism potential by attracting airline and air transport industry specialists from all over the world."



During the conference, the industry standards, requirements, and procedures for industry discount travel for staff and eligible people are typically addressed and voted on.  TradeArabia News Service
(Bloomberg) -- Investors should brace for months of market readjustments overshadowed by the threat of a new financial accident, according to Allianz chief economist Ludovic Subran.

Most Read from Bloomberg

We have all the ingredients of a so-called Minsky moment, he told Bloomberg Television on Monday, referring to economist Hyman Minskys description of a precipitous drop in asset prices after a build-up of debt. You see that everywhere, these liquidity pools or liquidity crunches are starting to be visible.

Subran isnt the first to have resorted to that description since a string of US bank failures began in March, but his use of the term and his list of associated risks highlight how the circumstances that gave rise to that turmoil and engulfed Credit Suisse Group AG too havent gone away.

Of course the commercial real estate and the doom loop with the regional banks in the US is a concern, he said. Im concerned about the mis-pricing of corporate-credit risk, especially when I think that high-yield spreads are still too compressed, to be honest. And Im also looking at the non-bank financial intermediaries.

While the sudden shift in global monetary policy characterized by aggressive interest-rate hikes gave rise to current tensions, theres more to it than that, said Subran, who formerly worked at the World Bank and Frances Finance Ministry.

Everybodys problem now is the very abrupt tightening, but then there is an additional layer of wrong risk management, he said. A new financial accident could come from the banking sector, it could come from some very specialized hedge funds in commercial real estate, but it could come from a mixture of those two.

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Investors are in for a bumpy ride, Subran added.

We dont think we are in the remake of the global financial crisis, he said. But I think these release moments, these cathartic moments are going to be more frequent in the next few months for sure.

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WMBT International Investment Group Ltd.

Hong Kong China, a leading international financial hub, is emerging as a significant growth arena for the innovative digital economy powered by Web3. The autonomous Chinese territory is well-positioned to capitalize on the opportunities offered by the burgeoning decentralized technologies, thereby driving global economic transformation.

Hong Kong, May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This May, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center is set to host a major event in the global financial landscape, the 2023 Global Digital Economy Web3.0 Summit Forum. WMBT International Investment Group is leading the event organization, with support from prominent institutions across England, Europe, Poland, Britain, Switzerland, Singapore, and Cyprus.

The summit is anticipated to play a significant role in shaping the future of the digital economy on both regional and international scales, fostering collaboration and dialogue between industry experts and academics. A key highlight of the event will be the introduction of the world's first digital stock issuance, accompanied by the first-ever digital stock forum. The discussions and developments at the forum are expected to pave the way for innovations in global finance and the broader digital economy.

The upcoming 2023 Global Digital Economy Web3.0 Summit Forum, along with the world's first digital stock meeting, is poised to gather global experts and scholars to discuss the current state, challenges, and future of the digital economy. Digital stocks within the Web3.0 eco-finance framework are anticipated to usher in a new era marked by both opportunities and challenges on a global scale.

The digital stock forum are set to host an impressive roster of attendees, featuring celebrities, industry elites, and representatives from renowned institutions worldwide, all coming together to exchange ideas and insights.

Technological innovation has emerged as the driving force behind the global digital economy's growth. A central theme for the event will be exploring ways to fully harness the value of decentralized ecological applications, enhance the convenience of digital assets, and ensure that digital finance serves the global population. As the first summit forum of its kind, the event is expected to generate novel ideas for the world economy, integrate technological advancements into the global digital economy, and promote high-quality industry development.

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Website: https://www.wmbt.io



CONTACT: Media Contact Company Name: WMBT International Investment Group Limited Contact: Bell Li Email: enquiry(at)wmbt.io




By Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is reaching out to U.S. business and financial leaders to explain the "catastrophic" impact a U.S. default on its debt would have on the U.S. and global economies, two sources familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The Treasury secretary is having one-on-one conversations with individual CEOs to warn them about the "dangerous consequences of the current brinkmanship," one of the sources said.

The sources declined to name the CEOs with whom Yellen had spoken in recent days, or provide any other details about their conversations, but one said they included executives in the financial sector and broader economy.

While the sources did not spell out her purpose, Biden administration officials have been speaking to business owners about pressuring Republicans to raise the debt ceiling without conditions.

The Treasury secretary delayed a planned trip to Japan for this week's Group of Seven finance ministers meeting to appear on the ABC News program "This Week" on Sunday, where she warned the failure of Congress to raise the $31.4 trillion debt ceiling could trigger a "constitutional crisis."

Talks on the issue should not take place "with a gun to the head of the American people," Yellen said in a pointed reference to Republican lawmakers' insistence on tying a debt-ceiling increase to sweeping spending cuts that Democrats oppose.

Yellen is now slated to leave for Japan this week and will hold a news conference in Niigata, Japan, on Thursday before the G7 meeting.

President Joe Biden insists that Congress has a constitutional duty to raise the debt ceiling, which reflects previously spent federal money, without conditions.

He will meet on Tuesday with Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and top congressional Democrats at the White House to try to break the impasse.

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Yellen told lawmakers last week that Treasury will likely be unable to pay all the government's bills as early as June 1 without an increase in the federal debt limit.

Yellen, other economists and analysts have repeatedly warned that a default on U.S. debt would result in millions of job losses, while driving household payments on mortgages, auto loans and credit cards higher.

Unlike most other developed countries, the U.S. puts a hard limit on how much it can borrow. Because the government spends more than it takes in, lawmakers must periodically raise the debt ceiling.

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal in Washington; Editing by Heather Timmons and Matthew Lewis)
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2023 / Zimtu Capital Corp. (TSXV:ZC)(FSE:ZCT1) (the "Company" or "Zimtu") announces it has signed an agreement with G2 Energy Corp. to provide its ZimtuADVANTAGE program (https://www.zimtu.com/zimtu-advantage/).

ZimtuADVANTAGE is a program designed to provide opportunities, guidance, cost savings and assistance to clients covering multiple aspects of being a public company. The services of this program include the following: Zoom with Zimtu; Zimtu Connect - all major news/events/important updates sent to email distribution list, Lead Generation campaigns; Blog Posts; Digital Awareness campaigns; Influencer Marketing; Social Media Distribution of company news/important updates through Zimtu accounts including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube & Instagram; Rockstone Reports & Distribution; Video News Releases - major news releases will be translated to video format, which will be distributed on all social media platforms and to Zimtu Connect subscribers; and Zimtu Question Period.

About G2 Energy Corp.

G2 Energy is a junior oil and gas producer listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The company's primary focus is to acquire and develop additional overlooked, low-risk, high-return opportunities in the oil and gas sector. G2's strategy is to obtain a portfolio of risk-managed production and development opportunities onshore, United States. In May, 2022, G2 acquired the Masten unit in the Permian basin, Texas. The Masten unit is the company's first producing asset. G2 is targeting top-tier projects with operating netbacks and infrastructure facilities which will fast-track overall oil and gas production growth.

About Zimtu Capital

Zimtu Capital Corp. is a public investment issuer that aspires to achieve long-term capital appreciation for its shareholders. Zimtu Capital companies may operate in the fields of mineral exploration, mining, technology, life sciences or investment. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "ZC" and Frankfurt under symbol "ZCT1". For more information visit: www.zimtu.com.

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On Behalf of the Board of Directors

ZIMTU CAPITAL CORP.

"David Hodge"

David Hodge

President & Director

Tel: 604.681.1568

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.

SOURCE: Zimtu Capital Corp.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/753579/Zimtu-Capital-Announces-Agreement-with-G2-Energy-Corp




Charlotte Johnson was so focused on her math classwork that she didnt notice her mother, Christian, standing next to her desk.

Mommy! she gasped when Christian tapped her on the shoulder. Then mother and daughter held each other tightly in a lengthy hug while nearly everyone else in the room, even the other third graders, wiped away tears.

It was the first time Charlotte had seen her mother, an Air Force Master Sergeant, since she left in January for a four-month deployment supporting the NATO mission in Baghdad.

Christian Johnson surprised Charlotte, 9, and her son Cameron, 6, in their classrooms at Park Ridge Elementary on Friday afternoon.

Her husband, Chris, picked her up at the airport late on Thursday night, and she was actually sleeping in the guest bedroom when Chris got the kids ready for school Friday morning.

You were hiding! Cameron exclaimed delightedly when he learned his mom had been in the house that morning.

Cameron and his kindergarten classmates were gathered on the story rug listening to their teacher, Emily Meranda, read when Christian snuck up behind him.

The boy hugged his mom and then saluted his dad, who is retired from military service, when he saw that Chris Johnson was also in the room.

Meranda asked how many in the class either have parents who currently serve or have retired from service, and the majority raised their hands. She then asked how many have had parents leave for deployment.

You have to be really brave, right? Meranda said. You have to take care of your family and we have to take care of you.

To Christian Johnson, Meranda said, He was so brave.

The recent deployment was Johnsons fifth, but the first since her children were born.

It was tough, but they didnt skip a beat, she said.

The family would video chat every evening and cross off a day on a calendar counting down the days until theyd be reunited.

A self-described stickler about sweets, Johnson relaxed her rules so the kids could have a piece of chocolate every time they crossed off a day.

They made videos for me of how their days went, Johnson said. Charlotte would read and Cameron would dance.

She said she knew her children were in good hands with her husband and the teachers and staff at Park Ridge.

Theyve been incredibly supportive, Johnson said.

As Charlotte packed up her belongings to go home for the day, school principal Keana Butler called out, We love you, Charlotte!

In the school hallway, the family answered questions from reporters.

Asked what their plans for the afternoon were, Cameron said, Snuggle with my mom!
A Spotsylvania County man who shot into the rear of a vehicle full of teenagers who had mistakenly pulled into his driveway last year was ordered Monday to serve a year and a half in prison.

Brent D. Alford, who will turn 50 later this month, was sentenced in Spotsylvania Circuit Court to a total of nine years with all but 18 months suspended. He was convicted by a jury in February of unlawfully shooting into an occupied vehicle and four misdemeanor counts of assault.

According to the evidence presented by prosecutors Crystal Montague-Holland and Ryan Mehaffey, three teenage siblings and a friend were on their way to a party on the night of June 18 in the 6300 block of Grace Hill when their GPS led them into Alfords driveway. The home they were intending to go to was a couple of houses away.

The driver, recent high school graduate Devin Johnson, was turning around to leave when Alford started banging on the car window and yelling. The car was headed back to the road when Alford fired his 9mm handgun into the trunk of the fleeing vehicle.

The round struck a jug of antifreeze in the trunk and missed the four occupants. Alford, who called 911 after firing the shot, told police that the car struck him twice and that he fired in self-defense.

Johnson and his younger brother both testified that they are still tormented by the thought that their sister or a friend in the backseat could have been killed by Alfords irrational actions.

A can of coolant altered the trajectory of that bullet, Johnson said. Pure luck and God Himself protected us.

Montague-Holland told Judge William Glover that Alford clearly fabricated the story about being hit by the car and said that if not for the antifreeze, Spotsylvania County might have made national news.

We simply cant have a community in which people shoot first and ask questions later, Montague-Holland said.

Alford on Monday apologized to the victims and their families and said he now realizes that his actions were wrong. Im truly sorry, said Alford, who previously worked as a sheriffs deputy in Johnston County, N.C., and as a correctional officer at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. My heart goes out to them.

Defense attorney Mark Murphy argued that Alfords terrible mistake should not outweigh the good hes done, including serving honorably in the Marine Corps. Murphy asked that Alford, who has spent two months in jail, be released.

Mehaffey said Alford deserved a prison sentence.

He almost killed children for absolutely no good reason, Mehaffey said.

Judge Glover agreed, saying that more is expected of someone with military and law-enforcement training.

It was nothing more than luck that you didnt kill somebody, Glover said just before pronouncing judgement.
Work is getting closer to starting on area projects that are part of the states rail expansion program, which began in 2020 as a long-range plan to improve and expand passenger train service in several phases.

In the $3.7 billion plan, the state agreed to buy 386 miles of railroad right of way and 223 miles of track from CSX Transportation. The expansion will add 44 miles of new track between Washington and Richmond.

The first two phases of the program focus on three corridors, one of those being Interstate 95, where there are 11 projects totaling $4 billion. The first two phases are scheduled to be completed by 2030.

Work is advancing on four projects that will add a third track through the area, with two projects in the first phase and relatively close to starting.

One of those projects, which will add four miles of third track between the Brooke Road and Leeland Road stations, was part of an update by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority at Aprils Commonwealth Transportation Board meeting.

That project will include modifications to the tracks at Dahlgren Junction in the Chatham area as well as new rail bridges at Harrell and Leeland roads in Stafford.

The Leeland Road bridge, which crosses over the tracks, needs to be rebuilt because of the track expansions impact on the spans piers. The authority and the Virginia Department of Transportation will work together on the project, with VPRA funding the project.

The Harrell Road bridge carries trains over the road and also will be replaced to accommodate the new track.

The expansion project is still in development, with construction scheduled to start in 2024 and finish in 2026.

The other phase-one project is in Caroline County, where three miles of new third track will be added between Woodslane and Paige roads. The project is in the engineering phase, with construction scheduled to run from 2024 to 2025.

The other two area projects are included in phase two of the rail expansion program.

One of those projects also is in Stafford, with 2.3 miles of new third track to be added from the Brooke station to the Aquia Creek bridge. Development of the project is slated to start in 2025, with construction scheduled for 20272028.

The fourth project runs from Spotsylvania County to Stafford, adding four miles of new track from south of the Virginia Railway Express station to Harrell Road in Stafford.

No work has started on that project. Plans call for development work to start in 2025 and construction to happen from 2028 to 2030.

The second phase also includes the Long Bridge project, which will expand the rail bridge crossing the Potomac River between Virginia and Washington from two to four tracks.

The third and fourth phases of the rail plan, which are not yet funded, include a new span over the Rappahannock River at the Fredericksburg train station.
When Spotsylvania County approved rezoning for a water park resort in Thornburg last year, part of the agreement included a loan through a state program.

In order to operate through the gap loan the county needs to create a community development authority to issue bonds that will help pay for construction.

The gap loan will allow the county and state to split the cost three ways with Kalahari. The state and county portions will come from taxes on the resort. The countys estimated cost for its contribution for the gap loan would amount to $74.8 million over 20 years.

Creating the Matta River Community Development Authority requires a public hearing, which is scheduled for the Board of Supervisors meeting at the Holbert Building on Tuesday. The meeting starts at 4 p.m., with public hearings starting until 6:30 p.m.

If they approve the authority, the supervisors will need to appoint seven members to serve on its board.

Plans for the Kalahari resort call for more than 1.38 million square feet of commercial space, a 267,429 square-foot indoor water park, a 10-acre outdoor water park, a 900-room hotel and a 156,278 square-foot convention center in Thornburg, between Interstate 95 and U.S. 1.

Supervisors approved a rezoning for the water park in July 2022 in an agreement that includes big tax incentives for Kalahari, which owns four water park resorts in other states.

The total estimated value of those incentives for Kalahari amount to $41,639,587 in the first year and $185,234,273 over the life of the 20-year agreement. The county would take in $83,596,100 in tax revenue during the 20-year span.
A white University of Virginia alumna has claimed a former schoolmate and well-known Black social justice activist led a mob that ruined her life. Now she has prepared a draft lawsuit against UVa and university officials, claiming they did not do enough to protect her.

Morgan Bettinger was called a Karen, attacked on social media, tried before the student-run University Judiciary Committee, expelled in abeyance, investigated by the UVa Office for Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights and  while the last investigation did not find her guilty  has said she has had to live in a state of limbo since.

The start of all that trouble was July 17, 2020, when Bettingers schoolmate and Charlottesville native Zyahna Bryant was participating in a Black Women Matter protest organized by Charlottesville Beyond Policing.

According to Bryants account, Bettinger arrived at the protest and told us that we would make good speedbumps. Bryant shared video footage of the moments after the alleged incident on Twitter, led an email campaign urging students to demand that Morgan face consequences for her actions and that UVA stop graduating racists and filed a formal complaint with the UJC.

The UJC found Bettinger guilty of threatening the health or safety of students. She was expelled in abeyance  which allowed her to continue her schooling but with a demerit in her file  and instructed to perform 50 hours of community service, meet with public policy professor Brian Williams to discuss the history of police-community relations and write an apology letter to Bryant.

According to Bettingers account, when she encountered the protest she told a truck driver blocking the road, Its a good thing that you are here, because otherwise these people would have been speed bumps. Bettinger is the daughter of a policeman, who died of cancer in 2014, and is admittedly pro-police, but she says she was misheard by protesters and taken out of context.

An inquiry conducted by UVas EOCR would find that Bettingers narrative was the more likely case and that her remarks, whatever they were, were not clearly threatening on its face.

In an interview with libertarian magazine Reason, Bettinger said that despite the EOCR decision, the UJCs expulsion in abeyance had become a permanent stain on her record.

The permanent record of her disciplinary violation will interfere with her later opportunities for higher education and employment, according to a draft lawsuit Bettinger has filed against UVa President Jim Ryan and the schools governing Board of Visitors.

Bettinger has asked Ryan to expunge her record, but he has declined.

Board of Visitors policy instills the university president with the power to impose appropriate penalties including expulsion.

But precedence says otherwise.

Our system of student self-governance gives this important authority to students, who apply facts to law in the course of adjudicating allegations of misconduct, Ryan wrote in a response to Bettinger. The President of the University does not have the authority to reverse the final outcome of the disciplinary process, and there is no precedent for the President claiming this authority.

The university has gone further. A statement from UVa spokesman Brian Coy defended the UJC and said the judiciary committee received legally accurate instructions about free speech and applied that correct standard to the evidence presented during Bettingers hearing.

A University evaluation of this case determined that Ms. Bettinger received a fair hearing and review by both the UJC and the Judicial Review Board (JRB), a panel of students, faculty, and staff unaffiliated with the UJC who are tasked with hearing appeals of UJC cases, Coy told The Daily Progress. Under our system of student self-governance, students rely on their peers to reach a conclusion after directly hearing the evidence and testimony in these student conduct matters.

Unsatisfied with the university response, Bettingers lawsuit requests the school issue an apology, award her damages for the emotional pain caused and harm to her reputation, expunge and destroy the records of her UJC trial and revise the UJCs procedures to be in line with constitutional due process standards.

Although Bryants complaints are a critical part of her complaint and her name appears more than 100 times in her draft lawsuit against the school, Bryant is not named as a defendant.

Bryant, typically an outspoken figure at the local and national level, declined to comment to The Daily Progress.

Bettinger, who told Reason she stays off the grid out of fear of being harassed, could not be reached for comment.

Charles Buddy Weber, Bettingers attorney and a prominent Republican figure in Charlottesville, did not respond to multiple requests for comment from The Daily Progress.

In an ironic twist, after the publication of Bettingers interview with Reason in late April, now Bryant is facing backlash on social media.

Anonymous Twitter users are calling Bryant a liar and race hustler who destroyed a womans life with a lie in order to sew more division in attempt to further her race baiting career.

Three years ago, it was an anonymous Twitter user that wrote Good morning everyone but Albemarle High grad, UVA student and daughter of a cop, Morgan Alyse Bettinger, who threatened protestors in Charlottesville last night by saying from her blue Subaru that wed make good speed bumps  likely the first tweet to identify Bettinger by name in relation to the incident.

Reason writer and editor Emma Camp, also a fellow UVa graduate, said Bryant has thrived since the incident while Bettinger lives in a state of limbo.

Meanwhile, local groups tied to Bryant and her causes have rushed to her defense.

Hate-Free Schools Coalition of Albemarle County, Showing Up for Racial Justice-Charlottesville, Charlottesville Beyond Policing and Congregate Charlottesville issued a joint statement supporting Bryant on April 29 rejecting the alleged attacks on her integrity from right-wing media outlets pushing a familiar mythology of white grievance and victimization.

Zyahna has been thriving, local organizations wrote in their joint statement. Yet, the Reason article is desperate to frame that success as a negative. They do so by rehashing a common and insidious narrative of the right wing: a fictionalized story of white grievance and victimization whose goal is perpetuating the dangerous movement to take back universities for conservative white students.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  The Minnesota Senate approved a plan Monday to entitle workers across the state to paid leave when theyre sick or caring for relatives who are ill.

While Senate Democrats hold only a one-seat majority, paid family and medical leave has been a priority of the party for several years, and the final 34-33 vote followed party lines. The proposal passed the House last week on a 68-64 vote, and Democratic Gov. Tim Walz is expected to sign the final version that emerges from a House-Senate conference committee.

The legislation would create an insurance-like system to allow workers to collect up to 12 weeks of partial wages when they take medical leave, including for pregnancy, and up to 12 weeks to take care of family members, starting in 2025. Replacement wages would range from 55% to 90%, averaging 66%. The benefits would be funded by a 0.7% payroll tax. Employers could charge half that expense to employees. Companies offering more generous benefits than the state requires could opt out.

Eleven other states and the District of Columbia already have similar programs, though Minnesota's would be among the most generous. The lead author, Democratic Sen. Alice Mann, of Edina, said the U.S. is the only industrialized country without such a program in place. The paycheck deduction would be the equivalent of a cup of coffee a week for the average Minnesotan, she said.

This program is proven to be successful, durable, sustainable and popular, Mann said.

Data from states that have paid leave programs shows they lead to better health outcomes for mothers and children, increased financial stability for families, higher employee retention and less dependence on government aid, Mann said. Only 24% of Minnesota's workforce now has access to paid leave, she said, with the vast majority being among the state's highest earners. Among the lowest-wage earners, predominantly women and people of color, she said, only 6% have access to paid leave.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and the state chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business, and Republican lawmakers, have tried with little success since the early days of the session to block or scale back the program because of the costs for employers, especially small businesses.

At a news conference ahead of the debate. GOP Sen. Julia Coleman, of Waconia, urged Democrats to hit the brakes and sit down with employers to find a plan that will not crush our small businesses, make goods and services more expensive for every single Minnesotan.

Among the dozens of people demonstrating outside the Senate chamber ahead of the vote was Samie Burnett, of Brooklyn Park, who works for a nonprofit that serves the homeless. While she said she already gets family leave thanks to her union, she said that wasnt the case earlier in her career.

When my grandpa was sick and he was dying, I wasnt even able to take time off to be with him because I didnt have PTO hours, I didnt have paid time, I didnt have anything, Burnett said.

During the debate, Coleman offered an amendment for a voluntary alternative she introduced last year that would rely on tax credits for employers who choose to participate. It would authorize insurance companies to offer products providing varying degrees of paid family and medical leave. But employers would not be mandated to provide the benefits. Her amendment was defeated on a party-line vote.

Christine Fenner, president of the Waconia Area Chamber of Commerce, said at the GOP news conference that employers want to offer good benefits so they can be competitive in the tight labor market, but that the new tax would compound costs of doing business that are already growing.

Local governments have also raised concerns. Mike Funk, superintendent of the Stillwater Area Public Schools, said the tax would use up much of the education aid increase the Legislature is considering. He estimated it would cost his district about $480,000 annually, with half being paid by employees.

Even though we have a historic surplus in Minnesota, we're being asked to pay for this program through a new tax, Funk told reporters.
Saudi Arabia's Tourism Development Fund (TDF) said it has signed a finance agreement with Golden Frond Hotel Services Company, a subsidiary of the Afyaa Group, to build a five-star ecolodge in the kingdom's Al Ahsa region.

To be operated by ENVI Lodges - an eco-friendly, premium quality luxury lodge brand - the new resort will boast 25 lodging pods featuring one- and two-bedroom units as well as several key facilities including farm-to-table dining units as well as spa, local arts and crafts, and a selection of unique activities.

Designed by Thai-based Fractal Architects and award-winning design firm Kristina Zanic, the ENVI Al Nakheel resort is the first branded eco-lodge in Saudi Arabia to be developed by the private sector and funded by the TDF. It is expected to open in the first quarter of 2024.

The project development will be managed by Compass and BIC, it added.

TDF Chief Executive Qusai bin Abdullah Al-Fakhri said: "We are pleased with our partnership with Golden Frond to develop the ENVI Al Nakheel in Al-Ahsa Oasis. This distinctive project is compatible with our goals of promoting sustainable tourism."

"Al-Ahsa is distinguished by its historical and cultural heritage sites, as it is one of the most important destinations within the focus of the National Tourism Strategy, aiming at raising the number of tourism opportunities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030," stated Al Fakhri after signing the deal with Golden Frond Hotel Services Company CEO Engineer Abbas Al Saleh on the sidelines of the ongoing Future Hospitality Summit (FHS) in Riyadh.

The agreement demonstrates the commitment of both parties to advance sustainable tourism development, in line with the objectives of KSAs National Tourism Strategy and the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

The summit, which concludes tomorrow (May 9), has attracted participation from senior government officials and executives from the tourism and hospitality industry, as well as prominent developers, investors, hotel owners and operators.

On the key project, Al Saleh said: "We are grateful for TDFs support to develop this project, as it represents a milestone in the Saudi tourism industry. We look forward to working together to create unforgettable experiences for tourists that complement our commitment to preserving the unique cultural and natural heritage of Al Ahsa Oasis."

According to TDF, the agreement ratifies the importance of the Al Ahsa Region, which is one of the ten targeted tourist destinations and home to one of the largest oases in the world.

It is the first site in the region to be registered on the Unesco World Heritage List because of its rich archaeological features, which show evidence of human settlement in the region since the Neolithic era.

These historical attractions make Al Ahsa the ideal location to create tourism facilities where visitors can enjoy its beauty and charm, it added.

Chris Nader, the Co-founder of ENVI Lodges, said the Saudi TDF is an invaluable partner for private investors like Golden Frond Hotel Services, who want to develop qualitative tourism projects in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

The ENVI Al Nakheel project will raise the level of tourism offerings in the Kingdom through cultural diversity, traditional methods of construction, and cutting-edge design features, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The Nevada man who was shot by Lincoln narcotics investigators Monday amid a confrontation in west Lincoln died Saturday, according to the sheriff's office.

35-year-old Chace Abney died on Saturday from the injuries he sustained in the shooting, according a press release from the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office.

Abney was shot at around 2:45 p.m. Monday by investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol and Lincoln Police Department in a parking lot near Northwest 27th and West O streets, according to authorities. He was taken by ambulance to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries Monday afternoon.

At least one Lincoln Police officer and one state trooper shot Abney after the 35-year-old fired one round from a 9 mm handgun toward police, Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner previously said. No officers were injured in the shooting.

At a news conference at the Sheriff's Office's headquarters Tuesday, the sheriff suggested Abney's shooting seemed justified and declined to name the officers involved while painting a clearer picture of what authorities say led up to the incident.

The investigators  both of whom work on the Lincoln-Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force  had been conducting surveillance at the Super 8 motel at 2635 W. O St., Wagner said.

The investigators were not looking into Abney, but Wagner said the 35-year-old followed the officers in his Chevrolet Malibu across O Street to a parking lot at 123 N.W. 28th St.

Wagner said the investigators confronted Abney and shouted repeated commands  though it's unclear how many commands  to exit the sedan.

Instead, Wagner alleged, Abney pointed a handgun at police and fired one round. Wagner said he wasn't sure if Abney was inside or outside the car when the shooting transpired.

The investigators returned fire, striking the 35-year-old more than once, the sheriff said. Wagner declined to say how many times Abney was shot.

"From preliminary information  it appears that (the officers) were justified in their actions," Wagner said at the news conference Tuesday.

Wagner said it remains unclear why Abney followed police from the hotel, where he had been a guest but was not staying in the room police were surveilling.

Investigators haven't found the projectile Abney is accused of firing toward police, but Wagner said they did recover a shell casing from his 9 mm, which was reported stolen Monday in Norfolk, the sheriff said.

The involved officers immediately rendered first aid to Abney before Lincoln Fire and Rescue crews responded and took him by ambulance to Bryan West Campus.

Abney had most recently been living in New York and had outstanding warrants in New York, Arizona and California, Wagner said. He had ties to Lincoln and had been here for about a week prior to Monday for a family function, the sheriff said.

Both investigators have been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with each agencys policy.

As required by Nebraska state law, a grand jury will be convened to investigate the events that led up to Abney's death and determine if police acted criminally in the shooting.

Abney was transported to the Douglas County Medical Center in Omaha following his death, where an autopsy will be performed, according to the sheriffs office. The autopsy is scheduled for May 8 at 8:30 a.m.

Journal Star reporter Andrew Wegley contributed to this report.

Top Journal Star photos for May 2023
Colorado lawmakers spent so much time debating two property tax proposals on Sunday that they are literally running out of time to tackle some of the biggest policy proposals this year.

The 2023 session ends no later than midnight on Monday, putting tremendous pressure on lawmakers to wrap up bills, with several major ones in jeopardy.

That includes least three House bills that have not yet received a Senate debate. Unless they receive preliminary approval by the Senate by midnight tonight, they will be considered dead for the 2023 session:

House Bill 1171, which prohibits landlords from evicting tenants without just cause. The bill would require mediation between landlords and tenants before landlords can file for eviction, if the tenant receives certain financial assistance, passed its last major legislative hurdle on Saturday. Mediation would involve a landlord and tenant meeting together with a neutral third party to discuss a voluntary settlement in lieu of an eviction. If an eviction is ordered, the bill would give tenants 30 days to leave the property, instead of the current 10 days.

House Bill 1065, which would add school board members and employees and special district directors to the jurisdiction of the independent ethics commission. The state constitution, however, expressly prohibits any "public officer" who serves on a board or commission for no compensation from being under commission jurisdiction.

House Bill 1249, would raise the age before a child can face prosecution to 13, except in the case of homicide. This would remove children aged 10, 11 and 12 from the jurisdiction of juvenile, municipal and county courts. Instead of entering the criminal justice system, children under 13 who commit crimes would be referred to local collaborative management programs to get resources such as therapy or family counseling. Victims of crimes committed by kids aged 10 to 12 could still access victim services and compensation, as the bill would remove the requirement for a police report to be filed.

Among the bills whose time ran out is SB 158, which would have extended the Colorado Commission On Criminal And Juvenile Justice.

The commission was established in 2007 to provide ongoing work and recommendations regarding the reduction of recidivism and the efficient allocation of criminal justice funding. The commission's sunset review recommended extending it but without a specified timeline. The House Judiciary Committee, on a party-line vote Sunday, killed the bill.

Time also ran out for HB 1066, which would have created a task force to look into the issue of access to public land that shares a border with public land, but where access is inhibited by private land. It was postponed indefinitely on Sunday by the House Appropriations Committee.
Most Colorado House Democrats are so extreme in their left-wing ideology they care more about criminals than victims  even young ones who havent reached double digits.

No one can honestly dispute this after a vote late last week, in which a heavy majority of House progressives opposed a bill to set more serious penalties for those convicted of sex crimes against children.

The Senate gave unanimous approval to House Bill 1135 on Saturday, after it barely passed the House. Eighteen Democrats voted to protect children, while an alarming 27 voted against them after expressing sympathy for predators (excuse us, we mean victims of society).

They opposed the bill despite sponsorship by three more-balanced legislative Democrats  Reps. Dafna Michaelson and Shannon Bird, and Sen. Rachel Zenzinger.

The bill would make indecent exposure a class 6 felony if committed knowingly in view of a child under 15. Colorados minor exposure victims average age 11.

Without the proposed law, which requires Gov. Jared Polis signature, grown adults who intentionally expose their genitals to children  even to gratify themselves in front of them  face a misdemeanor. It takes a fourth offense before this crime rises to potential felony status. That means the state tolerates harm against three more children, by a known offender, before taking it seriously.

Colorado has charged at least 90 adults with exposure crimes against children in the past four years. Prosecutors say documented cases are artificially low because children typically feel too ashamed, frightened and/or embarrassed to report them to parents or authorities. Those who muster the bravery to report typically see the suspects walk away.

Legislators heard of a deviant exposing and pleasing himself in front of a father's two young daughters. Cops issued a misdemeanor summons and set the suspect loose, to the dad's dismay.

Another father said his two daughters, 14 and 16, were in a parking lot after school when a man confronted them. The suspect raised his pelvis and exposed his genitals, pleasing himself for the girls to see. In typical fashion, because of the soft-on-crime law, police issued a misdemeanor summons and let him go.

Democratic bill sponsor Bird told of a man approaching a 7-year-old constituent at a Westminster Walmart to expose and satisfy himself. Though the suspect faced minor consequences, the girl needs long-term counseling to try resolving night terrors so frightening she sleeps with her parents. The same man was the suspect in another sexual exposure case involving another young girl that day in the same store. Infuriating is not a strong enough word.

For Republican Rep. Brandi Bradley, HB 1135 is personal. She told fellow legislators of a man gratifying himself while holding her hand outside a church when she was 10. Through tears, Bradley told of harboring personal shame for 37 years before she could speak of the crime.

Law enforcement testified about multiple cases involving grown men gratifying themselves in front of children in parks. Because the law treats this as a minor crime, they said, some perpetrators commit these crimes several times each day until convicted four times.

None of the heart-wrenching testimony altered the radical lefts perverse disregard for victims and misplaced compassion for offenders.

Democratic Rep. Elisabeth Epps filibustered the bill for more than three hours. She said misdemeanor penalties are harsh enough  even though they leave suspects to reoffend within the same day.

Boulder Democratic Rep. Judy Amabile said convicts of these can't live in most places, you cannot live in any kind of public housing, and you cannot work. These are dire consequences These dire repercussions probably beat decades of anguish among victims who asked for none of it.

Democrats expressed sympathy for suspects, saying they likely suffer from mental or behavioral disorders. They seem to care little about the lifelong suffering the criminals actions force on innocent children.

In opposing this bill, Democrats challenged decency, supporting indecency to showcase what they learned in Sociology for Dummies 101. They show little concern for children harmed by criminals while governing the countys #1 state for violent crime.

Colorado should be the safest state, not the most dangerous. Above all, the law should protect children by removing those who harm them from sidewalks, parks and other public spaces until they succeed at reform. If signed into law, HB 1135 will move us one small step in the right direction  to the disappointment of 27 Democrats who get feel-good vibes by mollycoddling perverts.
From biplanes to F-16s and possibly, one day, F-35s or F-15EXs, the Colorado Air National Guard celebrated 100 years of defending the skies it calls home Sunday.

During a "family day" celebration at Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora, a silver, World War II era P-51 Mustang in Air National Guard markings parked next to an F-16 in a special, Colorado-themed livery, and an F-35, showing the history and possible future of the 140th Wing.

The placement was no accident. The Colorado Air National Guard flew P-51s after World War II before transitioning to jets during the Cold War and Vietnam War, when it was the first Air National Guard group to be deployed.

It uses F-16s, but they are aging and leaders are looking to the future, sparking the appearance of Vermont National Guard pilot and Denver native Lt. Col. Philip "Catfish" Francis, who arrived in an F-35.

Brig. Gen. Michael Bruno, who has been with the Colorado Air National Guard since transferring from Nebraska in the 1980s, said future threats will require better equipment.

"We are here to protect the citizens. We're here to save lives, mitigate suffering and protect property whenever our governor needs us," he said.

Newly minted wing commander Col. Jeremiah "Weed" Tucker is loath to call the F-16s "old," opting instead for "mature." But the jets were built in the 1980s and are showing it.

As a lifelong Coloradan, he wants to see the wing's aviation mission continue.

"We, and the family we have out there, want nothing more than that 100 years of aviation be continued for 150, 200 years," he said. "The vast majority of folks are part time. They don't work here full time and have a job outside the fence. We are the neighbors of Denver, Colorado, though they may not see us every day."

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A provided list shows airmen work at airlines like United and Delta, as well as for the National Park Service, Denver Parks and Recreation, the U.S. Forest Service and many others.

Tucker, and the Guard as a whole, are big on emphasizing the community part of their jobs, he said.

Active duty soldiers may spend two or three years at one station before moving on to the next, but members of the Guard often remain in their state unit a long time.

Tucker is a second-generation member of the Colorado Air National Guard, following in the footsteps of his father who spent 30 years with the unit. Tucker has served 25.

"These are not just co-workers, these are not just buddies, these are folks that will actually work and live together for the next 20 years," he said. "I've been doing this very thing forever, since I was 7 years old, and this is the kind of stuff that people love coming to."

As for future aircraft, Tucker said the wing is "agnostic" on the choice between the F-15EX Eagle II and the F-35.

Francis flies the F-35 but has flight time on both aircraft. While he calls the F-16 a Porsche in the skies, the F-35 offers far greater capabilities, allowing a unit equipped with them to respond to whatever is next.

"What the F-35 brings to the table is a multimission fighter and does the air to air and air to ground. But it's got the stealth, which is incredible," he said. "I fought against the Buckley guys yesterday and they had no idea I was there until I was already behind them."
The jury started deliberations Friday afternoon in the trial against Letecia Stauch, who is accused of killing her 11-year-old stepson, Gannon Stauch, more than three years ago.

After five weeks of trial the attorneys in the case gave their closing arguments, where the key focus for both the prosecution and the defense was the sanity of Stauch. Following the end of rebuttal 12 jurors were sent to begin deliberations, and after four hours of deliberation the jury was sent home for the day at around 5 p.m. Deliberations will resume on Monday morning.

Prosecutors Dave Young and Michael Allen spoke heavily about how Stauch's actions weren't those of someone suffering from psychosis, but rather those of a manipulative person who did not suffer from any severe mental illness.

Its not psychotic, its strategic," Young said. "If you lose your temper, you dont get to claim insanity ... were humans, we have emotions."

Stauch is accused of killing Gannon on Jan. 27, 2020, at their home in the Lorson Ranch neighborhood southeast of Colorado Springs in unincorporated El Paso County.

Stauch faces four charges:

- two counts of first-degree murder

- one count of tampering with a deceased human body

- one count of tampering with physical evidence

"Everything this woman did in her life was manipulation, to cause chaos and make herself the victim," Allen said during the prosecution's rebuttal. Thats who she is, shes a story teller. Telling stories is not a sign of psychosis, its who she is."

Defense attorney Josh Tolini argued the opposite, that the actions taken by Stauch weren't those of a manipulative liar, but rather a very mentally ill woman who was suffering psychoses and had a "psychotic break."

"These are not the actions of a sane, rational person," Tolini said. "She is freaking out, and she is delusional."

Tolini started his closing arguments by stating that the prosecution never proved a motive, which opens the door to only "two explanations" of the crime  that Stauch was suffering from dissociative identity disorder, or she has anti-social personality disorder, something Young claimed Stauch may have several times during the prosecution's closing arguments.

Heres what Mr. Young is trying to do, he is trying to introduce antisocial personality disorder into this, Tolini said.

Tolini argued that the prosecution's approach was tied to Colorado law, in which a person can't be found legally insane if the only disorder they suffer from is that of an antisocial personality disorder. Tolini added that Dr. Loandra Torres, one of the state forensic psychologists who conducted Stauch's sanity examination, testified that she did not believe Stauch suffered from antisocial personality disorder.

During Allen's rebuttal, he argued the prosecution actually had proved the motive behind Gannon's killing, even though the prosecution isn't obligated to do so for a conviction under Colorado law.

"She hated Gannon," Allen said.

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Allen also alleged that maybe the reason Stauch hated Gannon so much was because of how much he loved his mother, Landen Hiott.

She knew she could never replace the love Gannon had for Landen, Allen said.

Tolini at one point referenced that perhaps the biggest evidence to prove Stauch's insanity, aside from the testimony of Dr. Dorothy Lewis, was the brutality of Gannon's death.

In the first week of the trial, Susan Ignacio, a medical examiner from Florida, testified that Gannon was stabbed 18 times and suffered four blunt-force trauma injuries and one gunshot to the head.

The brutality of the attack is the strongest evidence in this entire case of a psychotic break, Tolini said. That is the only thing that makes sense."

During rebuttal Allen heavily disputed that claim from Tolini, stating the brutality from the attack showed only one thing: how much the defendant hated Gannon, Al Stauch and Hiott.

Does the brutality itself prove psychosis from the defendant?" Allen asked the jury. The brutality speaks to the abject hatred she had for Gannon, and the pure determination she had to kill Gannon.

Both attorneys also spent a substantial portion of closing arguments discussing the sanity reports, and the experts themselves who conducted them.

Young spent almost half of his closing argument discussing Dr. Lewis, who testified on Tuesday and Wednesday, in an attempt to hurt her credibility.

Young pointed out how Lewis didn't know the legal definition of insanity in Colorado, how she struggled to answer Young's questions during cross-examination and made the claim that Lewis only concluded Stauch was insane for a paycheck.

Money is a strong motivator, having shows on HBO is a strong motivator, having your son film the interview  possibly for another documentary, thats a strong motivator, Young said referencing Dr. Lewis and her credibility as a witness in the case.

Tolini in turn spent time defending Lewis, by reinforcing her "groundbreaking" work in the field of psychiatry and claiming that it was "insulting" to insinuate that Lewis only concluded she was insane for a paycheck.

Tolini would go on to speak about the experts who testified on behalf of the prosecution, pointing out that none of them claimed that Stauch didn't suffer abuse as a child, and how Torres specifically concluded Stauch had borderline personality disorder and narcistic personality disorder.

None of the experts you have heard from think that there is no mental illness going on here, Tolini said. All of that (Stauchs actions) points to mental illness, and in no way, shape or form have they proved otherwise."

At no point in Tolini's closing argument did he argue that Stauch didn't kill Gannon.

Allen ended the prosecution's rebuttal by playing the audio of Stauch calling 911 to report Gannon missing on the evening of Jan. 27, 2020, just hours after the prosecution alleges she killed Gannon.

"Who was the last person to see him (Gannon)?" the operator asks. "Uhh. I guess me?" Stauch can he heard responding.

"Gannon deserves it (a guilty verdict), he deserves all of the justice you can give him," Allen said to end the prosecution's rebuttal.
Wanted

Pikes Peak Area Crime Stoppers is asking for the publics help finding the following people for whom felony arrest warrants have been issued.

Jonathan Louis Akes  age 30, 6 feet, 1 inch tall, 290 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of aggravated motor vehicle theft with two priors and parole violation.

Ashley Shane Allen  age 38, 6 feet, 1 inch tall, 230 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes, sought on suspicion of felony menacing, process and manufacture of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, hazard on premises, possession of controlled substance and driving under the influence.

Kylene Virginia Dionisio  age 22, 5 feet, 1 inch tall, 145 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She is sought on suspicion of assault.

Sir Kyle Deon Gaskin  age 19, 6 feet, 1 inch tall, 144 pounds, with black hair and hazel eyes, sought on suspicion of robbery, assault and unauthorized use of a financial device.

Antonius Rashad Loggins  age 26, 5 feet, 9 inches tall, 175 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of obstruction, tampering, harassment, cruelty to animals, burglary, assault, theft, criminal mischief and child abuse.

Daniel Orlando Quintana  age 31, 5 feet, 6 inches tall, 165 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of assault-strangulation, assault causing serious bodily injury, felony menacing and harassment.

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Alisha Marie Ramirez-Valiente  age 31, 5 feet, 1 inch tall, 120 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. She is sought on suspicion of assault-strangulation and child abuse.

Terrance Injell Williams  age 42, 5 feet, 7 inches tall, 220 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, sought on suspicion of kidnapping, child abuse, possession of a controlled substance, possession of weapon by previous offender, large capacity magazine during crime, vehicular eluding, driving under restraint and reckless driving.

Remain anonymous

If you have information about these fugitives or a serious crime, call Crime Stoppers at 719-634-7867.

You do not have to give your name, and you could earn a reward of as much as $1,000 for information given to Crime Stoppers.

A list of featured fugitives wanted in the Pikes Peak region is on the Crime Stoppers website: crimestop.net.

The people with the following Crime Stoppers numbers need to call 444-7866: 277-C23011, 277-W22671, 277-M23413, 277-M23299, 277-M22471, 277-M22615, 277-M22988, 277-M23233, 277-M23430, 277-M23534, 277-M23645, 277-C23623.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating a plane crash that left four people dead near the Teller/Fremont County line, according to Gazette news partner KKTV.

The wreckage was found early Sunday, nearly a day after the plane failed to arrive at its destination, the TV station reported.

The Teller County Sheriffs Office told 11 News that it was contacted after a small aircraft left the Fremont County Airport at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, bound for Centennial Airport near Denver, but never made it. The plane was reportedly spotted near Phantom Canyon Road by another aircraft at about 8:30 a.m. Sunday.

According to preliminary information from the FAA, the aircraft, a single-engine Cessna T-41B, had four people on board.

Click or tap here for more local public safety news updates.
Actor Richard Dreyfuss went on the record to lament inclusive standards in Hollywood.

Dreyfuss, known for his role in Jaws and, most recently, Murder at Yellowstone City, appeared for a television interview with Margaret Hoover Friday, where Hoover asked him about the changes to the 2024 Academy Awards. From then on, the films eligible for Best Picture' will have to have a certain percentage of actors or crew from under-represented racial or ethnic groups.

ANT-MAN'S EVANGELINE LILLY LAMENTS SOCIETY THAT VILLAINIZES MASCULINITY IN MEN

Hoover asked Dreyfuss what he thought about the new standards.

"They make me vomit," Dreyfuss said. "Because this is an art form, it's also a form of commerce, and it makes money, but it's an art. And no one should be telling me, as an artist, that I have to give in to the latest, most current idea of what morality is."

The Oscar-winning actor, who was nominated twice for Academy Awards as "best actor," scoffed at the idea of people's feelings being hurt by art. Dreyfuss stated that, in his opinion, there isn't a "minority or a majority in the country that has to be catered to" to the point of receiving extra special treatment.

"This is so patronizing," Dreyfuss said of the guidelines. "It's so thoughtless and treating people like children."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Hoover pushed the actor on his opinion on blackface, which he defended. Dreyfuss explained that in 1965, Lawrence Olivier was the last White actor to play the Shakespearean character of Othello "brilliantly," in his opinion. As another example, he said anyone could act in The Merchant of Venice even if they were not Jewish.

Dreyfuss warned movie theater audiences to "anticipate" that their feelings will be hurt in future films.

Original Location: Actor Richard Dreyfuss of Jaws says inclusion standards 'make me vomit'

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A top House Republican is threatening to hold Secretary of State Antony Blinken in contempt because he has refused to comply with a subpoena demanding the State Department hand over a July 2021 dissent cable from the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has argued since late 2021 that the Biden administration has been stonewalling his investigations into the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, which ended with a chaotic evacuation, a Taliban takeover, hundreds of Americans and thousands of Afghan allies left behind, and 13 U.S. service members killed in an ISIS-K suicide bombing.

SENATORS DEMAND BLINKEN HAND OVER HUNTER BIDEN INFO AFTER "FALSE TESTIMONY"

McCaul is fed up with Blinken repeatedly refusing to hand over an internal dissent cable which was signed by two dozen U.S. embassy members in Kabul and sent to the State Department in mid-July 2021, just over a month before the Taliban took Kabul. The dissent cable is known to have criticized the State Department's planning for the evacuation and warned that Kabul could collapse soon after the U.S. troop withdrawal.

Blinken won't hand over the cable, despite McCaul's congressional subpoena in late March, which compelled the State Department to hand over an unredacted version of "the Dissent Channel cable sent on or about July 13, 2021, reportedly signed by 23 State Department officials, and the official response to it."

McCaul told Blinken in a Friday letter that the subpoena "must be complied with immediately" and warned that "should you fail to comply, the Committee is prepared to take the necessary steps to enforce its subpoena, including holding you in contempt of Congress and/or initiating a civil enforcement proceeding."

To hold Blinken in contempt, McCaul's committee would first need to vote to do so, followed by the entire House. If passed, Blinken would be the first Biden administration official to be held in contempt since the GOP took control of the House in January. The contempt sanction would then be forwarded to the Biden Justice Department to decide whether to charge him.

Contempt of Congress is a potential misdemeanor with a sentence of up to a year in prison.

McCaul said Friday that the State Department had provided "a roughly one-page summary of the dissent cable" as well as a summary of the State Department's "official response" to it that was "just under one page in length." McCaul said that the State Department "has confirmed that the original dissent cable totaled four pages in length, meaning that the summary represented a 75% reduction of the original cable."

The congressman said a State Department briefing on April 27 was "insufficient" to satisfy the March 28 subpoena. The briefers were "unable or unwilling" to provide basic information and made "multiple inaccurate statements" about the use of the Dissent Channel, McCaul said.

Citing multiple extensions he'd given the State Department previously, McCaul set a new deadline of May 11 for Blinken to comply.

"State Department officials at the embassy in Kabul took the extraordinary measure to raise their dissent to the policy, sir, that you and your administration were effectuating. I think the American people need to see this. We need to know what their dissent was  why were they objecting to your policy in the failed withdrawal from Afghanistan?" McCaul told Blinken during a hearing in March shortly before he issued the subpoena.

The summer 2021 dissent cable, sent to Blinken and the State Department's director of policy planning, Salman Ahmed, reportedly warned about the collapse of the Afghan military and a potential near-term Taliban takeover, urging the State Department to speed up its evacuation planning, to do more to deal with the glut of special immigrant visa applications, and to help keep safe those who had assisted the United States in Afghanistan.

"It is vital to me that we preserve the integrity of that process and that channel  that we not take any steps that could have a chilling effect on the willingness of others to come forward in the future," Blinken told McCaul in March. He has used the "chilling effect" argument since 2021.

McCaul's demands of Blinken come as the secretary of state is also under fire related to the Hunter Biden saga.

Mike Morell, a former Obama CIA acting director, recently told the House that Blinken "triggered" him to write the infamous October 2020 Hunter Biden laptop letter, which baselessly claimed Russian involvement in the New York Post stories about President Joe Biden's son.

Blinken has also been accused of lying under oath in December 2020 testimony to the Senate where he falsely claimed that he had not exchanged emails with Hunter Biden while Blinken was Obama's deputy secretary of state.

President Joe Biden dismissed the significance of the dissent cable right after Kabul fell.

"We got all kinds of cables, all kinds of advice," Biden said on Aug. 20, 2021, adding, "I made the decision. The buck stops with me."

Blinken said in September 2021 that the cable expressed "real concerns" about the durability of the Afghan government forces after the U.S. left and called on the State Department to speed up the special immigrant visa process.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

If Blinken is held in contempt of Congress, he would join the ranks of former Obama Attorney General Eric Holder who in 2012 refused to hand over records on the Justice Department's handling of the Fast and Furious gun-running scandal as well as Lois Lerner, who was held in contempt in 2014 for helping lead an IRS effort targeting conservative Tea Party groups and other similar nonprofits. The Obama Justice Department declined to charge Holder and Lerner.

More recently, four Trump allies were held in contempt of Congress when Democrats controlled the House over not cooperating with the now-defunct House Jan. 6 select committee on the Capitol riot. The Biden Justice Department declined to charge former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows and former Trump social media director Dan Scavino, but it did indict trade adviser Peter Navarro and Trump ally Steve Bannon. Navarro's trial has yet to happen but Bannon was convicted.

Original Location: Blinken faces contempt of Congress for defying Afghanistan dissent cable subpoena

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A brewing debate over European sanctions on Chinese companies providing equipment to Russia's military could have "extremely dangerous" consequences, according to Chinese officials.

"We firmly oppose illegal sanctions or long-arm jurisdiction against China citing China-Russia cooperation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters Monday. "If the report you cited is true, the EU move will erode mutual trust and cooperation with China and sharpen division and confrontation in the world, which is extremely dangerous."

WAGNER MERCENARIES STAYING PUT IN BAKHMUT FOR NOW AFTER 'BLACKMAIL' ULTIMATUM

European Union officials reportedly have circulated a proposal to blacklist several Chinese companies implicated in providing equipment to the Russian military. That prospect has arisen against the backdrop of a more fundamental debate about Europe's posture towards Beijing, as Chinese communist officials dangle the hope of playing peacemaker in Ukraine despite their long-term alignment with Russia.

"China upholds an objective and just position, actively promotes talks for peace, and has played a constructive part in facilitating a political settlement of the crisis," Wang insisted. "China-Russia economic and trade cooperation is completely above-board."

China has loomed as an untapped reserve of diplomatic and military power on the margins of the war in Ukraine. Chinese General Secretary Xi Jinping appeared to give "tacit approval" to Russian President Vladimir Putin's campaign to overthrow the Ukrainian government, as part of a broader drive for their envisioned "transformation of the global governance architecture and world order," but Beijing seems to have stopped short of sending lethal aid directly to the Russian military.

Yet Ukrainian officials have announced that "a lot of different" equipment from Chinese companies  just another arm of state policy in the communist regime, according to Western officials  has appeared on the battlefield, as Xi continues to tread the line between official neutrality and the shared Russian and Chinese desire to blunt Western power. President Joe Biden's administration has imposed sanctions on several Chinese companies in response to that support, and EU officials could soon fall into step, according to a proposal first reported by Financial Times.

"In view of the key enabling role of electronic components for use by Russia's military and industrial complex for supporting the war of aggression against Ukraine, it is also appropriate to include certain other entities in third countries involved in the circumvention of trade restrictions," the European Commission proposed.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Wang, the Chinese diplomatic spokesman, warned that Beijing would find a way to respond if Brussels applies that language to Chinese companies.

"We call on the EU not to take that wrong course," he said. "Otherwise, China will take resolute measures to safeguard our legitimate and lawful rights and interests."

Original Location: China warns EU not to sanction companies aiding Russia in Ukraine: Extremely dangerous

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By Erwin Seba

HOUSTON (Reuters) - A fire burned for a third day on Sunday at Shell Plc's chemical plant in the Houston suburb of Deer Park, Texas, a company spokesperson said.

The fire initially ignited on Friday afternoon in an explosion in an olefins unit, used to make plastics and rubber.

The fire was extinguished for a few hours on Saturday morning before it reignited around 3 p.m. CDT (2000 GMT), said Shell spokesperson Curtis Smith.

No injuries were reported from the fire. Nine people were evaluated and released at local hospitals on Friday for possible chemical exposure.

Water is being sprayed onto the fire to keep it under control until the chemicals, which were being processed at the time of the explosion, burn away, Smith said.

Water may continue to be sprayed for up to 36 hours after the fire is extinguished to keep nearby equipment cool, he said.

Water runoff has exceeded the chemical plant's wastewater capacity and is being diverted into the Houston Ship Channel, Smith said. A boom has been deployed in the channel to contain any chemicals that may be carried by the water runoff.

Smith said air monitoring in neighboring communities "has not detected any harmful levels of chemicals" from the fire.

Jennifer Hadayia, executive director of Air Alliance Houston, said Shell's statements about risks to the community were self-serving.

"History has shown that these early statements are for the benefit of industry public relations and not public health," Hadayia said.

Olefins units are the central units in petrochemical complexes, producing ethylene, butadiene and propylene from hydrocarbon feedstocks.

(Reporting by Erwin Seba; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) has been the only Democrat whom West Virginia has sent to Washington since the 2014 elections, but the 2024 race is likely to be contested as Republicans seek to flip the remaining seat to their control.

The centrist Democrat survived a challenge in 2018 despite the state's rapid shift toward the Republican Party. However, Manchin may not be an easy incumbent to take down in next year's Senate election, should he decide to run for reelection.

JOE MANCHIN HAMMERS 'DYSFUNCTIONAL' BIDEN ON CALL WITH 2024 THIRD PARTY

Mark Blankenship, a GOP pollster in the Mountain State, cautioned against counting Manchin out of the 2024 Senate race while speaking to Politico.

"There is a reason that Joe Manchin is basically the last standing Democrat in a state that has had a red tsunami since 2014," Blankenship said. "You can't say that it's impossible for him to win because he's won so much."

Manchin has not said what his plans for 2024 are, but a run for reelection to his Senate seat or a run for president have been floated as possibilities. He is expected to make a public decision about his 2024 plans by the end of this year.

The Republican challengers to Manchin are Rep. Alex Mooney (WV) and popular Gov. Jim Justice (WV). Justice appears to have the upper hand in securing the GOP nomination for Senate, having won overwhelmingly statewide in his most recent gubernatorial elections.

After Justice announced his Senate candidacy, Manchin put out a statement saying he "will win any race I enter" but did not specify which race.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Justice holds a significant advantage in opinion polling compared to the incumbent senator, with a 66% approval rating compared with Manchin's 38% approval rating. Manchin won his 2018 reelection bid by just over 3 percentage points, while Justice won his 2020 gubernatorial reelection bid by more than 33 percentage points.

Manchin is widely seen as the most vulnerable Democratic senator of the various incumbents who are up for reelection in 2024, with Sens. Jon Tester (D-MT) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) also among the most endangered.

Original Location: Manchin is the 'last standing Democrat' in West Virginia as 2024 decision looms

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NEW YORK (AP)  Tracking down accurate information about Philadelphia's elections on Twitter used to be easy. The account for the city commissioners who run elections, @phillyvotes, was the only one carrying a blue check mark, a sign of authenticity.

But ever since the social media platform overhauled its verification service last month, the check mark has disappeared. That's made it harder to distinguish @phillyvotes from a list of random accounts not run by the elections office but with very similar names.

The election commission applied weeks ago for a gray check mark  Twitter's new symbol to help users identify official government accounts  but has yet to hear back from the Twitter, commission spokesman Nick Custodio said. It's unclear whether @phillyvotes is an eligible government account under Twitter's new rules.

That's troubling, Custodio said, because Pennsylvania has a primary election May 16 and the commission uses its account to share important information with voters in real time. If the account remains unverified, it will be easier to impersonate  and harder for voters to trust  heading into Election Day.

Impostor accounts on social media are among many concerns election security experts have heading into next year's presidential election. Experts have warned that foreign adversaries or others may try to influence the election, either through online disinformation campaigns or by hacking into election infrastructure.

Election administrators across the country have struggled to figure out the best way to respond after Twitter owner Elon Musk threw the platform's verification service into disarray, given that Twitter has been among their most effective tools for communicating with the public.

Some are taking other steps allowed by Twitter, such as buying check marks for their profiles or applying for a special label reserved for government entities, but success has been mixed. Election and security experts say the inconsistency of Twitter's new verification system is a misinformation disaster waiting to happen.

"The lack of clear, at-a-glance verification on Twitter is a ticking time bomb for disinformation," said Rachel Tobac, CEO of the cybersecurity company SocialProof Security. "That will confuse users  especially on important days like election days."

The blue check marks that Twitter once doled out to notable celebrities, public figures, government entities and journalists began disappearing from the platform in April. To replace them, Musk told users that anyone could pay $8 a month for an individual blue check mark or $1,000 a month for a gold check mark as a "verified organization."

The policy change quickly opened the door for pranksters to pose convincingly as celebrities, politicians and government entities, which could no longer be identified as authentic. While some impostor accounts were clear jokes, others created confusion.

Fake accounts posing as Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, the city's Department of Transportation and the Illinois Department of Transportation falsely claimed the city was closing one of its main thoroughfares to private traffic. The fake accounts used the same photos, biographical text and home page links as the real ones. Their posts amassed hundreds of thousands of views before being taken down.

Twitter's new policy invites government agencies and certain affiliated organizations to apply to be labeled as official with a gray check. But at the state and local level, qualifying agencies are limited to "main executive office accounts and main agency accounts overseeing crisis response, public safety, law enforcement, and regulatory issues," the policy says.

The rules do not mention agencies that run elections. So while the main Philadelphia city government account quickly received its gray check mark last month, the local election commission has not heard back.

Election offices in four of the country's five most populous counties  Cook County in Illinois, Harris County in Texas, Maricopa County in Arizona and San Diego County  remain unverified, a Twitter search shows. Maricopa, which includes Phoenix, has been targeted repeatedly by election conspiracy theorists as the most populous and consequential county in one of the most closely divided political battleground states.

Some counties contacted by The Associated Press said they have minimal concerns about impersonation or plan to apply for a gray check later, but others said they already have applied and have not heard back from Twitter.

Even some state election offices are waiting for government labels. Among them is the office of Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows.

In an April 24 email to Bellows' communications director reviewed by The Associated Press, a Twitter representative wrote that there was "nothing to do as we continue to manually process applications from around the world." The representative added in a later email that Twitter stands "ready to swiftly enforce any impersonation, so please don't hesitate to flag any problematic accounts."

An email sent to Twitter's press office and a company safety officer requesting comment was answered only with an auto-reply of a poop emoji.

"Our job is to reinforce public confidence," Bellows told the AP. "Even a minor setback, like no longer being able to ensure that our information on Twitter is verified, contributes to an environment that is less predictable and less safe."

Some government accounts, including the one representing Pennsylvania's second-largest county, have purchased blue checks because they were told it was required to continue advertising on the platform.

Allegheny County posts ads for elections and jobs on Twitter, so the blue check mark "was necessary," said Amie Downs, the county's communications director.

When anyone can buy verification and when government accounts are not consistently labeled, the check mark loses its meaning, Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold said.

Griswold's office received a gray check mark to maintain trust with voters, but she told the AP she would not buy verification for her personal Twitter account because "it doesn't carry the same weight" it once did.

Custodio, at the Philadelphia elections commission, said his office would not buy verification either, even if it gets denied a gray check.

"The blue or gold check mark just verifies you as a paid subscriber and does not verify identity," he said.

Experts and advocates tracking election discourse on social media say Twitter's changes do not just incentivize bad actors to run disinformation campaigns  they also make it harder for well-meaning users to know what's safe to share.

"Because Twitter is dropping the ball on verification, the burden will fall on voters to double check that the information they are consuming and sharing is legitimate," said Jill Greene, voting and elections manager for Common Cause Pennsylvania.

That dampens an aspect of Twitter that until now had been seen as one of its strengths  allowing community members to rally together to elevate authoritative information, said Mike Caulfield, a research scientist at the University of Washington's Center for an Informed Public.

"The first rule of a good online community user interface is to 'help the helpers. This is the opposite of that," Caulfield said. "It takes a community of people who want to help boost good information, and robs them of the tools to make fast, accurate decisions."

Original Location: New Twitter rules expose election offices to spoof accounts

Washington Examiner Videos
Police named and released a photo of the suspect in a crash at a Texas migrant center that killed eight and wounded several others.

George Alvarez, 34, was arrested and charged with eight counts of manslaughter after his SUV plowed through a group of people outside of Bishop Enrique San Pedro Ozanam Center, a shelter for immigrants and the homeless. Eight people were killed and 10 were critically injured, police said Monday.

Rev. Kevin Collins, OMI, the pastor at St. Eugene de Mazenod Parish, places his hand on his forehead in prayer with others after a deadly scene took place when the driver of a Range Rover struck a group of migrants, Sunday, May 7, 2023, along North Minnesota Avenue across from Ozanam Center, a migrant and homeless shelter in Brownsville, Texas. (Miguel Roberts/The Brownsville Herald via AP)

SEVEN KILLED NEAR MIGRANT SHELTER AFTER BEING STRUCK BY SUV IN TEXAS

Brownsville Police revealed the identity of Alvarez in a press conference, along with new details about the crash.

"Through the investigation, it was found that the SUV ran a red light, lost control, flipped on its side, and struck a total of 18 individuals. It was further found that there were six fatalities on scene and 12 critically injured. From then to now, the fatalities have grown to eight," Brownsville Police Chief Felix Sauceda said.

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Alvarez tried to flee after the crash but was stopped and restrained by bystanders, according to police. A toxicology report is pending. Though he is being charged with manslaughter, police said they are investigating whether the crash was intentional.

Sauceda said authorities had established contact and are cooperating with the Venezuelan government over the tragedy, as several of the immigrants killed were Venezuelan.

Original Location: Police name suspect in Texas migrant center crash that killed eight

Washington Examiner Videos
By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - German business software maker SAP and German engineering company Siemens have joined U.S. tech giants in criticising draft EU laws on the use of data generated by smart gadgets and other consumer goods.

EU countries and EU lawmakers are working on the details of the Data Act, proposed by the European Commission last year before it can be adopted as legislation.

The draft law, covering EU consumer and corporate data, is part of a set of legislation aimed at curbing the power of U.S. tech giants and helping the EU to achieve its digital and green objectives.

U.S. criticisms have included that the proposed law is too restrictive, while the German companies say a provision forcing companies to share data with third parties to provide aftermarket or other data-driven services could endanger trade secrets.

"It risks undermining European competitiveness by mandating data sharing  including core know-how and design data  with not only the user, but also third parties," the companies wrote in a joint letter to Commission President President Ursula von der Leyen, EU antitrust chief Margrethe Vestager and EU industrial chief Thierry Breton.

"Effectively, this could mean that EU companies will have to disclose data to third-country competitors, notably those not operating in Europe and against which the Data Act's safeguards would be ineffective," they said.

Signatories to the letter dated May 4 and seen by Reuters included the chief executives of the two companies, Siemens Healthineers, German medical technology company Brainlab, German software company DATEV and lobbying group DIGITALEUROPE.

The letter called for safeguards to allow companies to refuse requests to share data where trade secrets, cybersecurity, health and safety are at risk and that the scope of devices covered by the legislation should not be extended.

The Commission confirmed receipt of the letter, saying it understood the importance of trade secrets but that companies should not use them as a pretext.

"The Data Act isn't trying to change European or national law on trade secrets. However, it's important that trade secrets aren't used as an excuse for not sharing data," Johannes Bahrke told a daily news conference.

"We have to find the balance there. And that's exactly what we're trying to do with the proposal on the Data Act. There are safeguards, so contractual and technical protections laid out in the Data Act," he said.

Regarding a provision that allows customers to switch between different cloud providers, the companies said the legislation should preserve contractual freedom by allowing customers and providers to agree on contracts that work best for each business case.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; editing by Barbara Lewis)
An industry that began with salted, smoked pork packed into wooden barrels and shipped to the West Indies in exchange for molasses is now a multinational giant that touches the lives of all Americans. Even vegans.

When the Industrial Revolution ushered in growing cities and higher demand for meat, cattle ranches in the West and the railroad changed meat packing, which previously had been done by butchers who served their families and close communities. The circle grew exponentially with the railroad which allowed cattle to be driven from the ranch to the rail. Cattle were loaded on the cars and shipped to the packing houses in the East. At that time, the major packers were concentrated in cities like Buffalo, Chicago, Cincinnati, and Milwaukee. Even with the advent of the rail making the transport of live cattle more efficient, hot weather still complicated the shipping of bmeatpackingoxed beef. According to a white paper available from Kansas State University, the first practical refrigerated rail car to transport fresh meat was designed in 1875. Names still synonymous with meat packing, Gustavus F. Swift and Philip D. Armour, led the charge to make the transport of chilled meat one of the most revolutionary developments to the industry.

The interstate highway system changed meat packing, which previously was located near major corn production in places like Chicago. As their plants aged and became obsolete compared to the burgeoning technologies and efficiencies becoming available, the meat packing moved away from the corn and closer to the cattle. It was, and still is, more efficient to ship boxed beef or even dressed carcasses than livestock.

The fight over meat packing monopolies still rages today but was borne out of a reform movement known as the progressives that fought against unfair practices in companies like U.S. Steel, Standard Oil, and Armour. Roosevelt, though, was in the White House at the time and was known to favor corporations. One of the progressive journalists at the time was David Phillips who was one of the first investigative journalists, seeking to uncover injustice and the American underbelly. Roosevelt, fed up with Phillips articles attacking politicians who served the interests of business over people, called him a man with a muck-rake. The muck raking continued with Upton Sinclairs fictional work, an ode to Socialism, about Chicagos meat packing industry in The Jungle.

Due much in part to Roosevelts special commission sent to investigate packinghouse conditions, the Meat Inspection Act of 1906 quickly followed the commissions report, despite opposition from the packers. Had Sinclair had his stead, of course, the packers would be publicly owned and operated by cities.

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Fast forward nearly 125 years, there is little muck to rake on the floor of modern packing houses, though, like any industry, it faces plenty of criticism from all sides. The part of modern that America is getting right, though, is food safety. Thats not to say that theres a lack of debate surrounding whether beef from cattle born, fed, and harvested in the U.S. warrant a Product of the USA label, and theres no lack of fist pounding when it comes to the beef that is imported into the country. I could wax poetic about the value added per carcass by exporting cuts that make American consumers turn up their noses but are considered either a sought-after staple or a treat elsewhere. I could also talk about the beef imported into the country to meet demand and how, honestly, they cant all be rib eyes.

America has the safest, most abundant, most affordable food supply in the world. Period. Meat sold into retail and food service is processed in USDA inspected facilities and a trained USDA inspector looks at every carcass that takes up shackle space. There are hoops to jump through and beef producers support that because we want the beef that gets to your table to be the same high-quality beef that makes it to ours.

Traceability is certainly another topic that has been known to inspire some fist pounding among the cattle-raising community. At the end of the day, if there is a problem, officials can trace it to the source quickly and confidently to remove it from the food supply.

The Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption Act or PRIME Act has bubbled to the surface once again in Congress and the National Cattlemens Beef Association, North American Meat Institute have reiterated their opposition. The act would exempt from federal inspection the slaughter of animals and the preparation of carcasses conducted at a custom slaughter facility so long as it is done in accordance with state law. In Colorado, we can sell half or whole beef to a customer and deliver it to a custom slaughter facility (not USDA inspected- think local and small) so long as they process it for a single customer who pays the processing. We can also sell USDA-inspected beef by the cut. Im confident in the processing we utilize locally in both custom and US inspected facilities because we have a long-standing relationship with those families who operate the businesses. Im also confident that less regulation is typically my preference, but I appreciate the confidence USDA inspection lends to beef consumers and Im not willing to gamble with that and be left holding the proverbial muck rake.

Rachel Gabel is a longtime agriculture writer and the assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine.
Colorado is the No. 1 state in the nation for auto thefts. On Saturday, state lawmakers passed a bill they hope would help change that.

Currently, the severity of criminal offenses for auto thefts in Colorado depends on the value of the stolen vehicle  ranging from a class 1 misdemeanor for a car worth $2,000 or less, to a class 3 felony for a car worth $100,000 or more. If enacted, Senate Bill 97 would remove the value-based system and make all auto thefts felonies.

The bill cleared its last major legislative vote on Saturday, now only needing minor amendments to be approved before it will be sent to the governor for final consideration.

"We'll be treating poor and wealthy victims the same," said bill sponsor Rep. Matt Soper, R-Delta. "Now, law enforcement will not look to the value of the car, instead they're looking at going after the criminal. That's what's important here."

Under the bill, auto theft would be a class 5 felony at the baseline. It would become a class 4 felony if the thief alters the vehicles license plates, leaves the state, causes $1,000 or more in damages to the vehicle, injures someone or uses the vehicle in another crime. It would become a class 3 felony if the thief has two prior convictions for auto theft.

The bill would also create a class 1 misdemeanor offense for "unauthorized use of a motor vehicle": stealing a vehicle but returning or recovering it within 24 hours without damage, which proponents called the joyride provision.

The House passed the bill in a 48-16 vote on Saturday, following the Senate's unanimous passage in March. The bill  sponsored by two Democrats and two Republicans  received bipartisan support, but only Democrats voted against it.

While the bill's supporters said they hope increasing the penalty for auto theft would deter criminals from committing the crime, opponents argued that charging thieves with harsher offenses will not deter theft if the criminals are not getting arrested in the first place.

Approximately 40,000 vehicles were stolen in Colorado in 2022 but only around 3,900 arrests were made, representing less than 10% of stolen vehicles resulting in an arrest, according to data from the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority presented by lawmakers. Of those arrests, approximately 80% were already charged as felonies.

Colorado Supreme Court ponders role of juries in evaluating prior convictions

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"This is not the right move," said Rep. Elisabeth Epps, D-Denver, while voting against the bill in committee. "This is not a good first step, it's a step in the wrong direction and it's a step that we're going to be paying for collectively for years to come."

The penalties for class 3, 4 and 5 felonies range from one to 12 years in prison and $1,000 to $750,000 in fines. Class 1 misdemeanors are punishable by up to 364 days in jail and up to $1,000 in fines.

Increasing prison sentences of auto thieves could cost the state more than $12 million over five years, based on state estimates.

Ultimately though, proponents of the bill said even if it does not lower auto theft rates, it is still needed to create equity for crime victims and send a message to criminals that Colorado will not stand for auto theft.

From 2011 to 2020, rates of auto theft increased by 144% in Colorado  the fastest rise in the country  reaching 524.3 thefts per every 100,000 people, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Thats more than double the national rate of 256. Since 2020, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation estimates that auto thefts have continued to rise by 46% as of 2022.

"We need to correct our laws," said bill sponsor Rep. Shannon Bird, D-Westminster. "We've seen it in the news, we've heard from our constituents. Their cars are being stolen and ... we know that the value of a car isn't just measured by its dollar value."

Lawmakers, including Sen. Julie Gonzales of Denver and Rep. Mike Weissman of Aurora, said they voted in favor of the bill "reluctantly," questioning whether it would have the intended effect but adding they're supporting it because their constituents want them to or out of respect for the work put into the bill. Rep. Lorena Garcia of Adams County said the same thing while supporting the bill in committee, but voting against it in the final House action.

The bill is expected to be sent to Gov. Jared Polis in the coming days. If signed, it will take effect on July 1 and apply to offenses committed from that date forward.

Colorado moves to give child victims, witnesses of crimes anonymity in public records
It'd be hard to find someone with more solid credentials as a Republican than Wayne Williams.

A former El Paso County Republican Party chairman, county commissioner and county clerk, Williams ran on the GOP ticket twice statewide for secretary of twice, winning once.

In years past, that resume would almost certainly have made Williams a shoo-in to defeat unaffiliated rival Yemi Mobolade in the May 16 runoff for mayor of Colorado Springs, but an ongoing rift between various factions of the city's Republicans and bruises still lingering from a bitterly fought first round in the nonpartisan election threaten to upend expectations.

Different from previous mayoral runoffs  like when incumbent Mayor John Suthers defeated challenger Mary Lou Makepeace in 2015 and when Suthers' predecessor Steve Bach defeated City Council veteran Richard Skorman in 2011  longtime local political observers say this year's race isn't resolving as cleanly along traditional partisan lines, and that poses a unique challenge for Williams.

Since Mobolade and Williams qualified for the runoff by finishing in first and second place, respectively, in last month's municipal election, Williams has been going to great lengths to convince voters that he's the Republican and conservative in the race, even as his opponent wins endorsements from former GOP officials and prominent local right-leaning figures.

Among Mobolade's Republican backers are former county sheriff Bill Elder and former councilwoman and county commissioner Sallie Clark, who finished a close third in the April mayoral election.

Eli Bremer, a former county GOP chair, told Colorado Politics that the days when the Republican mayoral candidate could count on cleaning up in the Colorado Springs runoff are over.

In part, he added, that's because the city's electorate has shifted in recent years from overwhelmingly Republican to a more even playing field, noting that Democratic Gov. Jared Polis barely edged past Republican gubernatorial nominee Heidi Ganahl within city limits last fall, a result that would have been unheard-of in decades past.

The lines in this year's runoff are more muddled than in earlier elections, too, he said.

"People are trying to simplify this down to liberal-conservative, but its not eight years ago, its not John Suthers and Mary Lou Makepeace," Bremer said. "Its a completely different dynamic."

In the 2015 runoff, Suthers, a former Republican attorney general, defeated Makepeace by roughly 2-1 after he failed to achieve a majority in the first round.

Colorado Republican Party Chairman Dave Williams  no relation to the mayoral candidate  said the state GOP has been working to drum up support for Wayne Williams after learning that a sizable share of the city's Republican voters were considering casting ballots for Mobolade.

"Wayne and his campaign team contacted me to see if we could help to make sure our Republican voters can turn out and know Wayne is the only registered Republican running," Dave Williams told Colorado Politics, adding that the state party has sent multiple emails to its lists of GOP voters in the city.

The state GOP chair, who represented a portion of Colorado Springs during his three terms as a state lawmaker, said he understands why Williams' campaign is reaching out aggressively to Republicans.

"Waynes people expressed to me that they believe that as much as 30% of Republicans who were thinking about voting for Yemi," Dave Williams said. "If thats the case, Waynes got a little bit of trouble hes got to handle."

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Wayne Williams' campaign manager, Ryan Lynch, told Colorado Politics on Friday that he was pleased that fresh polling numbers show that Republican voters are "coming home."

"There were 11-some-odd Republicans in the first round of the race, and a lot of (the voters) supported Republicans other than Wayne Williams," Lynch said. "Certainly in the last few weeks, weve seen them consolidating around Wayne. Were grateful for that. Were getting support from folks all throughout the city."

Dave Williams, however, speculated that persistent tensions within the local Republican Party could ultimately cost Wayne Williams votes.

"As I look at it, Im kind of wondering whether Wayne regrets doing a commercial with Jena Griswold," he said, referring to a public service ad Wayne Williams recorded last with his Democratic successor as secretary of state to reassure voters that Colorado's election system is safe and secure. The ad provoked outrage from local Republicans, including a group that cited the ad when they launched a failed recall campaign against Wayne Williams.

"That type of stuff certainly feeds into the attacks he had to deal with during the normal campaign against Sallie and the rest," Dave Williams added. "Now hes got to consolidate Republican support, and it might come back to hurt him.

Dave Williams, who was often at odds in recent years with Wayne Williams in local, internal Republican Party disputes, said the battles could have left scars.

"There are a lot of folks Im hearing from from the more grassroots wing of the party that just dont want to vote at all, they want to stay home," he said. "And you've got people like Bill Elder (endorsing Mobolade)  that tells me that even other factions within the party that arent necessarily the grassroots but arent the traditional establishment types, they arent really warming up to Wayne."

Added Williams: "If Yemis going to win  hes certainly making all the right moves  the fact that hes getting Republicans to endorse his campaign and talk about a new vision for the city, that stuff is appealing."

Lynch countered that he's seeing the opposite.

"This is the first time in a while were seeing Republicans on both sides of the intraparty divide coming together," he said

He dismissed the significance of Mobolade's endorsements from Republicans and conservatives, including former councilmen Tom Strand, Don Knight and Scott Hente and former Colorado Springs Rescue Mission CEO Larry Yonker. The four are featured along with Clark and Elder in recent Mobolade digital ads proclaiming his support from "conservative leaders."

"Just because a small number of former elected officials have endorsed Yemi doesnt mean that Yemi has some bloc of conservative support," Lynch said. "He doesnt. And the more that the voters learn about his left-wing ideologies, they are coming back to our camp."

Dave Williams said he expects Wayne Williams will pull it out in the end.

"I do think theres a realization that its either Wayne or Yemi, so if youre a Republican and youve had some misgivings about Wayne, you kind of have to get over that," he said. "If youre afraid that Yemi is going to institute policies that are more like Denver, you have no choice, youre going to have to support Wayne. I dont think its an all-is-forgiven scenario, but we cant re-adjudicate the sins of the past."
From McDonalds to Walmart, numerous businesses throughout the country prohibit their employees from accepting tips. But that practice could soon come to an end in Colorado.

If signed into law, House Bill 1146 would ban employers from punishing employees who accept cash tips from patrons of the business. The bill would not apply to employees in health care facilities, senior care facilities, casinos and those required to be licensed, certified or registered under Title 12.

The bill passed its last vote in the state legislature on Sunday.

"We need to get back to being a society that encourages good service and good work," said bill sponsor Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver, while presenting the bill in committee. "We want to make sure that doesn't disappear in our cash-strapped economy."

Valdez said many of the employees who are forbidden from accepting tips work service-related minimum wage jobs, earning only $13.65 an hour. While this is among the highest minimum wages in the country, Valdez said it is "still not enough to make a living in my district and in many parts of the state."

Colorado's housing market ranks in the top five most expensive in the nation, and recent rises in costs of living from energy to groceries have left 40% of Coloradans in worse financial positions than years past, according to the Colorado Health Foundation.

Senators passed the bill in a 22-11 vote on Sunday, following the House's 45-18 approval earlier this month.

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The votes were mostly along party lines, with Democrats in support and Republicans in opposition. Across both chambers, only two Democrats voted against the bill and four Republicans voted in favor of it.

Critics said employers should be able to prohibit tipping if they want to, saying such employers may have an ethical objection to tipping or may want to ensure all customers get the same level of service regardless of money.

Are you ready to live in a world where those with pockets full of cash get to jump the line in front of you? Get better service than you do? said Sen. Jim Smallwood, R-Parker, who opposed the bill. "Reflect on the world that we live in today when it comes to tipping. ... Youre already being asked to tip on virtually everything."

Proponents of the bill said it is meant to permit tipping workers such as grocery baggers or cart pushers to thank them for their work, not to bribe employees for special treatment, which is illegal.

The bill would not prohibit employers from requiring employees to share or allocate cash tips to other employees in pre-established tip pools, or from requiring employees to report tips. It would block employers from demoting, firing or otherwise reprimanding employees for accepting tips.

The bill will be sent to Gov. Jared Polis in the coming days. If signed into law, it will take effect in August.
Welcome to Court Crawl, Colorado Politics' roundup of news from the third branch of government.

A new federal judge took the bench in Colorado as another awaits action in the U.S. Senate, plus the state Supreme Court heard oral arguments in several criminal cases and one very consequential civil matter.

Status update on federal judges

 Last week, Colorado's federal trial court welcomed U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Prose, who formerly defended the Federal Bureau of Prisons against lawsuits from inmates. She was named to the bench in December. If you're wondering why it took six months for Prose to take her seat, it's because she was awaiting the completion of her background check. She succeeds now-U.S. District Court Judge Nina Y. Wang.

 Meanwhile, the clock is ticking on the nomination of U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews to the district court bench. The White House selected him earlier this year for a vacancy that will arise in June, but Crews' nomination is stalled in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

 There are two factors preventing Crews from advancing. First, U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., has been gone for months due to medical issues, leaving the Judiciary Committee without its Democratic majority. Second, Republicans have indicated they will not lend their support to Crews, based on his botched answer to a legal question during his confirmation hearing.

 Nonetheless, for the moment, Colorado's federal judiciary is in decent shape numbers-wise, with the only vacancy being for a part-time magistrate judge position in Grand Junction formerly held by now-U.S. District Court Judge Gordon P. Gallagher.

A slate of oral arguments

 The state Supreme Court heard arguments in multiple cases last week, and considered a question that has strong ramifications for Colorado as a recreation-oriented state: Can members of the public challenge their exclusion from privately-owned riverbeds on the theory that the state actually owns such real estate?

 In a criminal appeal, some justices appeared receptive to the notion that, if someone pleads guilty to an offense while insisting they are innocent, there should be strong evidence supporting the plea in order for it to be valid.

 The Supreme Court wasn't thrilled to be weighing in on a question with very little precedent: Whether judges, not juries, can transform a misdemeanor conviction to a felony based on the defendant's prior convictions alone.

 On a field trip to Grand Junction, the justices heard arguments about whether a search warrant served on Google, used to identify suspects through their key word searches, is too broad to be compliant with the Fourth Amendment.

When prosecutors hide evidence

 Earlier this year, former D.C. public defender Thomas L. Dybdahl, who now lives in Boulder, published a book about the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark decision Brady v. Maryland. The Brady case obligates prosecutors to turn over evidence favorable to the defense that is relevant to the defendant's guilt or sentencing. In a Q&A with Colorado Politics, Dybdahl explained how Brady, six decades later, isn't a panacea for disclosure after all. Here is an excerpt:

Colorado Politics: In talking about the role of judges in evaluating Brady material and ensuring compliance with the Brady rule, it's very much after-the-fact. Is there anything trial judges can do while the case is unfolding to ensure compliance with Brady?

Thomas Dybdahl: There's certainly more that judges could do. In a typical case, assuming a competent defense lawyer and a good prosecutor, you make Brady demands or requests in a letter prior to trial. Sometimes we would list a whole range of material that we believed would be Brady, and we asked that it be disclosed in a timely way.

Certainly judges can get very involved in that, or at least by saying to the prosecutor, "All right, this looks appropriate to me, this request. Have you provided all this information? Have you asked your police officers, your detectives that are working with you, to disclose any of this kind of information?"

Because certainly one of the issues is police do not always give all their information to the prosecutor  and its not a defense to a Brady violation to say, "I didnt know."

Judges could absolutely take a much stronger role in saying, "I want you to certify to me in open court on the record that you have sought out, asked for, all of this kind of Brady information and disclosed it." And if they do that, certainly a prosecutor is on notice that he or she better do that or down the road there might be more trouble if something else comes out.

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Newest appellate judge likes to learn

 The newest member of Colorado's Court of Appeals, Judge Katharine E. Lum, held her formal swearing-in ceremony in late April and gave a glimpse into her personal life. One of the few appellate judges with family law experience, Lum has done pro bono work on criminal appeals and landlord-tenant disputes. She's also a rock climber and someone whose drawing skills are apparently impressive.

 In her application to join the court, Lum wrote about her enjoyment in learning new things and her "ability to absorb them relatively easily." During her swearing-in ceremony, she called her colleagues' attention to the plight of litigants who represent themselves in court, and implored judges to remember the humanity of those folks.

 "Even though we cant always address every argument, we can take care not to be dismissive in our tone," she said. "Even though we cannot necessarily construct a winning argument for a self-represented litigant, nor can we reject their contention simply because they cannot articulate it like a lawyer."

Heard on appeal

 An Aurora police officer acted unconstitutionally when he patted down a teenager for weapons, the Court of Appeals ruled. While the officer did find a gun, he failed to establish that he believed the teen was armed and dangerous at the time.

 A Boulder County judge gave a potentially coercive instruction to a deadlocked jury, the Court of Appeals determined, reversing the defendant's sex assault convictions.

 The statements a dissatisfied customer made publicly about a plumbing and heating business were "substantially true" and didn't amount to defamation, the Court of Appeals found.

In federal news

 Even though King Soopers changed course once it was sued, a federal judge determined the union representing grocery store workers hadn't established the company was irreparably harming them by assigning union work to outside contractors.

 A federal judge previously refused to dismiss a defamation lawsuit against a conservative podcaster stemming from his promotion of an unproven conspiracy theory about the 2020 presidential election. Now the judge has rejected the defendant's request to pause the case while he appeals.

Vacancies and appointments

 The governor has appointed criminal defense and domestic relations attorney Jeremy P. Boyce to the Crowley County Court, where he will succeed retiring Judge Richard D. Medina.

 Applications are due by May 25 to succeed District Court Judge Robert Lochary, who is resigning from the First Judicial District bench (Jefferson and Gilpin counties). He has been on the court less than four years, and was recently retained in the 2022 election.

Miscellaneous proceedings

 The Colorado Commission on Judicial Discipline has recommended a public censure of former Chief Justice Nathan B. Coats for failing to perform his administrative duties competently, in apparently the first discipline of any state Supreme Court justice.

 An "innovation zone" is challenging the Denver Public Schools board's decision to revoke the zone's status as a programming provider, suing the district under a recently enacted state law.

 This Friday, representatives from the National Center for DWI Courts will be in Larimer County to recognize the Eighth Judicial District's DUI Recovery Court as one of a handful of courts to serve as a model for alternative resolution of drunk driving cases.
A proposal from Democratic lawmakers intended to address Colorado's skyrocketing energy prices cleared its last major legislative hurdle on Saturday.

Senate Bill 291 seeks to lower costs of utility bills and reduce future volatility by making several changes to the regulation of Colorado's investor-owned electricity and natural gas providers, such as Xcel Energy, including adjusting the expenses that are paid by utility providers versus customers.

The bill passed the House on Saturday, following the Senate's passage last month. Now, it just needs amendments to be approved before it will be sent to the governor for final consideration.

Coloradans are counting on us to address rising and erratic utility costs, said bill sponsor Rep. Chris deGruy Kennedy, D-Lakewood. This important legislation sets in motion both short and long-term, cost-saving solutions that increase transparency and accountability to protect Coloradans from rate spikes that leave them choosing between heating their home and putting food on the table."

In a January presentation, the state Public Utilities Commission reported that a typical Xcel Energy customer saw a 25% increase in their electricity bill and a 75% increase in their gas bill compared to the same time last year.

The state legislature convened a special committee in February to investigate the spikes in utility prices. Bill sponsors said SB 291 is a result of the investigation.

Under the bill, utility providers would have to file a gas risk management plan, including a monthly cap on fuel charges. This is intended to stabilize bills by spreading out cost increases to a few cents per month over several years, instead of increasing bills by dozens of dollars in a single month, sponsors said.

Utility providers would also be prohibited from charging customers to pay for advertising, lobbying, political contributions and other activities. And, by 2025, the bill would require the PUC to establish rules to ensure that utility providers have financial incentives to keep fuel costs down.

"Since many of the costs associated with running a business and providing energy are recoverable, meaning they can be passed on to rate payers, what incentives do utilities have to better contain costs?" said bill sponsor Sen. Lisa Cutter, D-Jefferson County. "Our public utilities have been regulating the same way for more than 100 years ... some things need to be reevaluated."

The bill passed the House in a 46-19 vote on Saturday. Senators voted 21-13.

All Republicans voted against the bill and all but one Democrat voted in favor of it. Rep. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, joined Republicans in voting "no."

Critics of the bill said it would not result in significant savings on energy bills, calling the potential impact of the changes "a drop in the bucket" and arguing that rising energy costs are due to external factors outside of the state's control.

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"To me, the bill just doesn't do very much about utility costs," said Sen. Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, who opposed the bill. "Truth in the matter, it can't. It can't because, for the most part, those prices are dictated by the market."

In January, state officials attributed rising utility prices largely on the cost of natural gas, which increased by 40%, and the use of natural gas, which rose by 30%.

But they also cited two state actions that directly increased utility prices: rate hikes approved by Colorado energy regulators and the state allowing Xcel to charge customers $500 million for fuel costs incurred during a four-day winter freeze in 2021. SB 291's required gas risk management plan is meant to prevent those kinds of impacts in the future.

Members of the utility industry similarly stood against SB 291. During a committee hearing, president of Xcel Energy's Colorado Operating Company Robert Kenney said the bill wouldnt bring down costs or reduce volatility. Kenney said lawmakers should instead focus on increasing natural gas storage capacity for utility providers or promoting longer-term gas contracts to provide more cost certainty.

Proponents argued that utility providers are concerned the bill will cut into their profits by limiting what costs they can push onto customers  pointing out that while Xcel customers experienced dramatic increases in their monthly bills last year, Xcel reported a record profit of $1.74 billion.

Bill sponsor Senate President Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, also defended the state's role in trying to legislate to lower costs in the first place.

"The market is not going to fix this problem. This is a regulated monopoly. It's our job to regulate them," Fenberg said. "The only part that is subject to the market are the fuel costs, however, that is a direct pass through dollar for dollar. So, there is no market."

Other opponents of the bill raised issue with a portion that would require the Colorado Energy Office to study the value and risks of natural gas investments and bar utility providers from incentivizing new natural gas hookups or penalizing terminating gas service.

Critics said Democrats are using high utility costs as an excuse to "go after" natural gas.

"Instead of trying to address the real issue here, the bill attempts to punish utilities, the energy providers and their customers for something they don't have control over," said Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, who opposed the bill. "The state is picking winners and losers on what type of energy people are connecting to their homes."

In the House, lawmakers amended the bill to allow incentivizes for natural gas hookups for developments that are already in progress, pushing the deadline from Dec. 31, 2023 to Dec. 31, 2024 for applicants with approved or pending site development plans. That amendment will still need to be approved by the Senate.

The Senate must approve the House's amendments or call a conference committee to debate the changes before the legislative session ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday. Afterwards, the bill will go to Gov. Jared Polis for final approval.
In the last three years, Colorado has endured the three largest wildfires and the single most destructive wildfire in the state's history. On Saturday, lawmakers passed a bill they hope will help prevent future disasters.

House Bill 1273 seeks to create a grant program to incentive homeowners to make their houses more resilient against wildfires. The grants would fund changes such as replacing roofs and sidings with non-flammable materials, enclosing soffit vents to prevent ambers from being sucked inside, or even just moving burnable vegetation 100 feet away.

The bill cleared its last legislative vote on Saturday, now only needing the governor's approval to become law.

"This is not going to, all by itself, solve the wildfire threat that we have here in Colorado," said bill sponsor Rep. Marc Snyder, D-Manitou Springs, "but it's one of the many tools we have that we can utilize."

Under the bill, homeowners could apply for grants to pay for retrofitting or structural improvements to existing houses and other buildings, as well as for new builds and rebuilds. Grant applications would be prioritized by means, favoring low-income homeowners and those seeking to make changes to their primary residences.

The state dedicated $100,000 for the grants  a huge cut back from the original $2 million requested  though Snyder said the grant program would also utilize federal funds which are expected to be made available in the coming months.

The bill passed the Senate in a 26-8 vote on Saturday, following the House's 49-14 passage on Wednesday. Nearly all of the opponents to the Democrat-sponsored bill were Republicans, with only two Democrats voting against the bill: Reps. Elisabeth Epps and Emily Sirota of Denver. Neither spoke on the floor to explain their opposition.

But GOP critics of the bill said protecting homes from wildfires is a matter of personal responsibility, arguing that state tax dollars shouldn't be used to benefit individual homeowners.

"All we ever do is think of ways to tax working families to pay for things like someone else's deck because they live in a fire area," said Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, who voted against the bill. "They knew where they were moving into. ... Why is that the general public's responsibility? Why is that not the homeowner's responsibility?"

Other opponents said the state is investing too many resources in wildfire response and prevention.

Kirkmeyer, a member of the Joint Budget Committee, said the state has dedicated $93 million to the Department of Public Safety for wildfire-related programs over the past three years. Last session, lawmakers passed 11 bills regarding wildfire mitigation.

'It comes down to improper behavior': Recent wildfires in Colorado were human-caused  and preventable

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"We've done bill after bill on this," said Sen. Bob Gardner, R-Colorado Springs, who voted against the bill. "(Homeowners) are going to have to accept the responsibility for where you live and what your risks are."

Proponents of the bill argued that wildfire destruction is a statewide issue that requires government intervention.

The state's most destructive wildfire, the Marshall fire, destroyed over 1,100 homes and businesses in Boulder County in December 2021. The fire was the costliest in state history and the 10th costliest wildfire in U.S. history, causing over $2 billion in losses. While some homeowners have started to make fire-proofing changes on their own, most don't. And that leaves the entire state at risk, they said.

Bill sponsor Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, said making homes more resilient against wildfires will also lower insurance costs for all residents and will help to prevent wildfires from spreading to other communities. But most importantly, he said, it's the right thing to do to help people.

"This is not about people choosing to live in the wildland urban interface. This is about the wildland urban interface coming to them," Roberts said. "These are people who live in not high-value homes where, because of an ongoing drought and extremely dry summers caused by climate change, the wildland urban interface has come to them. They deserve some assistance."

During a public hearing on the bill, Tanya Samaroo said she lost her home in the Marshall fire. Now working to rebuild, Samaroo said she has taken precautions to protect her home from future wildfires, but most in her community have not.

"I'm afraid to go home and live in my non-fire-hardened neighborhood," Samaroo said while testifying in support of HB 1273. "It's like we are in Fort Myers rebuilding our houses in the same way, in the same spots and the next five-foot surge is going to sweep our houses out to sea."

Snyder said it typically costs around $3,000 to $5,000 extra to build a home with wildfire-resilient materials, with costs likely increasing to retrofit existing buildings. Samaroo said it cost her an additional $5,000 to $7,000 to fire-harden her home.

Under the bill, the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control would be responsible for determining the amounts and limits of the grants. Snyder said it's possible the grants could be restricted to around $5,000 per individual, or be used for cost matching or sharing.

The bill will be sent to Gov. Jared Polis for consideration in the coming days. If signed, state funds for the grant program would be transferred on Aug. 15.

Extreme weather is nearly universal experience: AP-NORC poll
Freedom has never been America's destination. But it is our journey. It was William Wright's journey.

Willie didn't make it to 70 years old, yet he traveled centuries of change during his life. In a way that was meaningful to the family tree of William Wright, his life was constitutive and integral and inseparable from the freedoms enjoyed by those who enslaved him.

Each of you who are dedicated family historians have stumbled upon stories of ancestral pride that you can't wait to tell your kids and grandkids. Most of the time, those star-spangled moments are sprinkled amongst the ordinary stories of everyday people who happened to be our ancestors, and spent their days just trying to survive.

Hopefully, less frequently still, you smack into a family story that takes you aback and renders you silent. In my own case, I found that my direct ancestors who were in Jamestown Virginia in 1619, claimed and owned human beings through enslavement, and that more common but no less harsh system of indentured servitude.

Once we have sorted through the fantasy and fables, the myths and mythos, and then come to terms with the truths of the, it becomes clear that family trees are inhabited by ghosts and goblins not much different than ourselves.

Just as the story of William Wright is important, the story of John Wilcox Russell is as well. Rightfully, the Wright family is proud of their ancestor William. Rightfully, the Russell family is proud of their ancestor John. Neither family is able to ignore the abhorrent acts they committed during their lives.

Born in Virginia in 1794, son of 3rd Virginia Regiment Revolutionary War artilleryman James Russell, John Wilcox Russell moved west to Kentucky with his family in 1801.

Russell was apprenticing with a local blacksmith, however at the outbreak of the War of 1812, he joined the Kentucky Volunteers and served continually until the end of the war. He served under General William Henry Harrison, who became the ninth president of the United States, who cited Russell for bravery at the Battle of Fort Meigs.

After the close of the war, John Russell launched the career that made him a millionaire as one of the premier pioneer steamboatmen on the Mississippi River. For the next three decades, the exploits of Captain Russell on the rivers became legend.

At the age of 46 in 1840, Russell abandoned the river life and returned to his family's tobacco plantation. It was at this time that the life arcs of William Wright and John Russell became permanently intertwined. Russell had decided to marry and his bride was Anna Marie Julian, the first cousin of James Julian, the man whom had enslaved young William Wright in Virginia.

Julian was also William's father. Willie Wright's mother bore him, and nearly 200 years later DNA confirmed James Julian as his biological father. It was 1845, at the death of James Julian, when the enslaved persons of the Julian Plantation in Virginia, were sold to cousin Captain John Wilcox Russell in Kentucky, and 7-year-old Willie Wright, his chattel.

Throughout his life, William Wright often repeated the praises of his enslaver John Wilcox Russell as a fair master. There appears to be an uneasy peace.

When the Civil War became an inevitability, the border states found themselves in the thick of it. The union army, being able to conscript for union military service, including a $300 bounty payable to the slaveholder, enslaved human beings were mustered into colored battle units, commanded by white officers.

Conscripting ones enslaved peoples into the Union Army should indicate some level of support of Union on the part of John Russell. However, Captain John Russell, steamship captain, ran the rivers delivering supplies and rebels to the Southern Cause. The subterfuge of playing both ends against the middle was treasonable.

The inconsistencies of actions and orders from the Civil War period viewed through the prism of today compounds the interpretations necessary to deliver a valid historical assessment.

Our ancestors were people of their times, at a time when boundaries were different.

However, acceptance does not equate to rightness or correctness. History can be reviewed and analyzed and learned from, but it cannot be changed.

From virtuous to nefarious and every cog on the gears in between, defines what was, and is, our America. The assessment can also give us a glimpse of what can be.

In the end, it is not each other, but God herself that delivers eternal judgment for each of us. The journeys of our ancestors are set in stone. As with all things human, we really only have control of how we act and react.

Next Week: Willie Wright's Civil War 1861-1867
Every year, before the summer, the Ministry of Health launches a communication campaign to raise awareness among the population, especially teenagers and young adults, about how to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

"Our aim is to inform about the risks of unprotected sex and to encourage young people to adopt responsible sexual behaviour. This includes the use of condoms and regular screenings for those who are sexually active," said Paulette Lenert, Minister of Health.

STIs are a major public health problem worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 million people contract an STI every day. Preventing these infections is therefore a priority for the health and well-being of the population. In Luxembourg, the number of reported STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis) increased from 1,755 in 2021 to 2,171 in 2022, which corresponds to an increase of 23.7%. This is mainly due to an increase in cases of chlamydia.

Simple measures to protect yourself and avoid transmission

As most STIs cause few or no symptoms, a person may be infected and contagious without knowing it. STIs can have serious health consequences (AIDS as a result of HIV infection, cancers as a result of human papillomavirus infection, infertility as a result of chlamydia (HPV) infection) if they are not prevented and, if necessary, detected and treated in time.

There are simple ways to protect oneself, and it is recommended to apply the following measures to avoid the transmission of STIs:

Get vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis A and B.

Use a condom every time you have sex and with every partner whose infection status you do not know.

Get tested for STIs and HIV regularly if you have multiple partners.

Get tested for STIs and HIV if you want to stop using condoms with a regular partner.

Take and complete treatments prescribed by your doctor.

Inform your partner(s) so that they can also be tested and treated if necessary.

Do not share needles or sniffing equipment.

From adolescence onwards, young people are encouraged to consult health professionals regularly for advice on preventing sexually transmitted infections and for screening if necessary. The school health teams are also able to answer questions in complete confidentiality.

The Ministry of Health's awareness campaign

The Ministry of Health is launching an awareness campaign this year on the theme "Protection is good for us", which highlights the need to protect oneself against STIs. Messages will be broadcast on social networks from 8 May. At the same time, field actions will be deployed from May to July to remind people of the importance of getting tested and using condoms:

Friday 12 May from 2 pm to 6 pm at Hamilius - Luxembourg-City

Saturday 13 May from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Culture Forest Festival - Esch-sur-Alzette

Tuesday 16 May from 2 pm to 6 pm at Hamilius - Luxembourg-City (the DIMPS-Mobile HIV Testing of the Luxembourg Red Cross will also be present)

Saturday 24 June from 3 pm to 7 pm at the Sirens Call Festival - Neumunster

Saturday 08 July from 4 pm to 7 at the Pride Street Fest - Esch-sur-Alzette

Sunday 9 July from 2 pm to 5 pm at Pride Street Fest - Esch-sur-Alzette

It is recommended that you speak to your doctor if you have any doubts or questions.

For more information on STIs, their risks and prevention, see the "Sexually Transmitted Diseases" section of the www.sante.luand www.safersex.lu websites.

Press release by the Ministry of Health
Terrible employees usually create a lot of drama and disruption and sometimes employers feel trapped on whether they can fire them. They can. And they should. But ideally, they should first issue some form of corrective action.

The Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld summary judgment for the employer, Spartanburg Methodist College (SMC), where a former employee claimed that SMC discriminated and retaliated against her under Title IX and the Americans with Disabilities Act when her contract was not renewed after just one year.

Plaintiff Summer Lashley signed a one-year contract to teach criminal justice courses at SMC. According to the courts opinion, Less than a year later, SMC decided not to renew Lashleys contract and terminated her shortly thereafter. Lashley brought a mix of state and federal law claims against SMC, essentially arguing that her contract nonrenewal and termination were unlawful.

SMC decided not to renew her contract due to her performance, professionalism, and conflicts with faculty and students, according to the case.

In cases like these the facts are complex. The employee in question had a lot of conflict, demands and complaints. They all cant be summarized here but suffice to say she was a source of ongoing disruption, and her supervisor described her as emotional, volatile, and uncontrollable. Lashley herself informed her supervisor on multiple occasions that SMC was not a good fit for her.

The court concluded, Lashleys multiple contentious interactions led [management] to worry that she was not forming constructive relationships with faculty and students and would have difficulty maintaining the professionalism required to perform as a SMC professor. In consultation with other SMC administrators, [Lashleys manager] decided not to renew Lashleys contract for the following year.

Informing her that her contract was not being renewed, her supervisor told her, that she and SMC were not a good fit for each other.

Following this conversation, Lashley allegedly made threats to include shouting at her supervisor for betraying her, telling students she felt like blowing the school up and telling a faculty member that Bad stuff happens when people cross me. My dad says its true. They turn up dead. She allegedly threatened that evil people like her supervisor would get theirs. She denied all of these statements.

SMCs president learned of these threats and made the decision to immediately terminate her and not let her work out the rest of her contract. He informed Lashley that her termination was due to unprofessional, inappropriate interactions with faculty.

The court held that SMC had legitimate reasons not to renew Lashleys contract and to terminate her employment, including that she was not a good fit for SMC and based on reports of threatening and unprofessional behavior.

The court reasoned it was not unlawful for an employer to conclude that an employees conflicts with faculty demonstrated a lack of conflict-resolution skills needed in a professional setting where interactions with colleagues are frequent and essential. There was also evidence that Lashley demonstrated a lack of professionalism with students.

The court determined that the motivation by the employer was safety  not retaliation.

Furthermore, the decision-makers didnt even know about Lashleys ADA request or her Title IX complaints when the decision was made to fire her. Decisionmakers can hardly be accused of harboring a retaliatory animus when they were unaware of the actions that allegedly led to the retaliation.

Lashley claimed that SMCs reasoning for her termination  that she was not a good fit, was a thinly veiled disguise for retaliation.

On this point, the court concluded that, Describing an employee as not a good fit is an assessment that employers make all the time. Maybe someones skills do not match up with the institutions mission. Maybe someones work ethic falls short of expectations. Maybe someone is just not a good team player. Though there may be circumstances where evidence reveals that good fit is a subterfuge for discrimination or retaliation, it is also a perfectly innocuous comment that an organizations collaborative goals would not be furthered and might be diminished by the employee.

The court added, Institutional success is often a collective enterprise toward which an employer has entirely reasonable expectations that each employee should contribute. It added, SMCs President explained that a good fit for us is someone who is able and willing to effectively teach the demographics we teach with great success and academic integrity, who possesses the [a]bility to be a good colleague with your faculty and staff, as well as the ability to exhibit the appropriate behavior with students and a level of professionalism with the appropriate boundaries between students and faculty. 

This was true despite Lashleys claim to be a whistleblower. On this the court held that Lashley cannot claim that mantle, adding, the record reveals unrelieved personality conflicts, unprofessional favoritisms, unwarranted threats, and contempt for what the defendant institution was attempting to accomplish. We cannot see how addressing those problems was a pretext for retaliatory or discriminatory animus.

This case should be a must read for any employer grappling with these highly complex and disruptive employees who continuously spin up the organization with never ending demands and disruption. Address these behaviors early (immediately). Institute a zero tolerance for any lack of professionalism or respect. And be consistent in holding employees accountable.
Authorities have arrested the sister of Alder Marin-Sotelo, the man accused of fatally shooting a Wake County deputy in August who escaped from a Virginia prison April 30.

Adriana Marin-Sotelo was arrested in High Point and charged with helping her brother escape from the Piedmont Regional Jail in Farmville, Va., according to federal court documents obtained by ABC11, The News & Observers news gathering partner.

The documents allege she paid someone $2,500 to leave a car in the jail parking lot for Alder to use.

Around 1:40 a.m. Sunday, Alder Marin-Sotelo escaped from jail. However, authorities did not realize he had escaped until about 4 a.m., when jail officials notified the local sheriffs office in Prince Edward County.

Images from the FBI show him getting into an early 2000s red or burgundy Ford Mustang with a 30-day temporary tag.

In August, Alder Marin Sotelo was arrested along with his brother Arturo Marin Sotelo in connection with the shooting death of Wake County Deputy Ned Byrd.

Byrd was shot multiple times near in a rural area near a gas station on Auburn Knightdale and Battle Bridge roads. After evading police for multiple days, the brothers were arrested near Winston-Salem.

According to the Prince Edward County Sheriffs Office, Alder Marin Sotelo was being held in Virginia on federal gun charges.

He is considered extremely dangerous by the FBI. Anyone who sees him should call 911 immediately and should not approach him.

On Monday afternoon, the Wake County Sheriffs Office tweeted that they had been made aware of the situation and stated that Marin-Sotelo and Callahan had escaped from the jail around 1 a.m. on Sunday.

We are working with our partners and are ensuring all resources are being used to find Alder Alfonso Marin-Sotelo, the tweet said.

The FBI announced it had joined the search for the two men via Twitter on Monday afternoon.

The FBI is instructing anyone who sees Marin Sotelo to call 911 and not approach him.

The U.S. Marshals Service said people can also call its 24-hour tip line at 313-202-6458.
North Carolina first lady Kristin Cooper recently questioned the vibrancy of Raleighs Glenwood South district after a man tried to kick-in the door of her and Gov. Roy Coopers private home.

On the neighborhood listserv, Cooper said a man tried to kick down the door of the couples residence in Forest Park in late April around 3 a.m.

He had no record and didnt seem to know whose house it was, she wrote. Just a guy having fun. Did anyone else have a disruption? Im personally sick of these people roaming the streets of what is obviously a neighborhood, yelling and carrying on as they head to the free parking area for Glenwood South that we have become.

This is not what vibrancy looks like to me, she wrote.

In another message she said the simplest thing would be for the city to just enforce the noise, public drunkenness and drunk driving laws.

I can tell the time by when the noise starts, she wrote. The bars close at 2:00; between 2:15 and 2:30, the drunks hit St. Marys St.; drunken drag racing goes on until 3:00. And I hate being that person, Ive always enjoyed the young people and students who live in this neighborhood, but it seems like since the pandemic, they have just gone feral.

The Raleigh Police Department referred questions about the incident to the N.C. State Highway Patrol, which did not return a phone call or email Tuesday night, but said Wednesday morning its would check into the incident.

An email to the governors press office seeking comment for this story was not returned Tuesday night.

The listserv message was raised during the Raleigh City Council meeting Tuesday night by local resident Woody Biggs, who has been asking leaders to address crime and noise in Glenwood South for months

We have had noise issues for years. The crime issues seem to have escalated greatly in the last two years, Biggs said in an interview with The News & Observer.

Before the last 12 months I never heard about gunfire in Glenwood South, he continued. Now every month I am hearing about gunfire going off in Glenwood South. And if you dont speak up nothing changes.

The city has to get a handle on the issue before there is a deadly shooting, he said.

Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin said it was the first time shed heard about the incident at the Coopers home.

The City Council has held numerous meetings about safety in Glenwood South, Baldwin said, adding the police chief has increased patrols in the area and new signs have been installed to discourage people from parking in nearby neighborhoods.

We are working diligently on the issue, she told The N&O. Unfortunately, right now in America, guns seem to be everywhere, and we have a huge problem in our country that needs to be addressed.
China's express delivery sector continues to grow in April

Xinhua) 08:20, May 08, 2023

A freighter of SF Airlines is loaded at the Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, April 11, 2023. (SF Airlines/Handout via Xinhua)

BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- China's courier sector registered expansion in April, a monthly industry index showed Sunday.

The monthly express delivery development index came in at 356.4 in April, up 47.7 percent year on year, according to the State Post Bureau.

The sub-index for the development scale grew 35.1 percent from a year earlier, the sub-index for development capacity picked up 25 percent year on year and the sub-index for development trend went up 18.1 percent year on year.

The monthly volume of parcels delivered is estimated to have gained 37 percent, while the express delivery revenue is expected to have climbed 31 percent in April.

Compiled on the basis of data from major logistics firms' operating delivery services, the development index reflects the overall business activities and trends in the country's courier sector.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Besides self-containment, there's one other bit of criteria to being named an organ  it must perform a critical function. From the get-go, scientists knew that the mesentery kept the gut in place by attaching it to the abdominal wall, which in and of itself is pretty important. "There are no reported instances of a Homo sapien living without a mesentery," researcher and University of Limerick professor J. Calvin Coffey told Discover magazine in 2017.

" " Digital representation of the small and large intestines and associated mesentery. University of Limerick

The mesentery is also where all abdominal organs develop. If this doesn't happen properly during fetal development, all kinds of things can go wrong. For instance, intestines may twist or collapse, which can cause tissue death or blocked blood vessels.

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Lymph nodes are also located in the mesentery, and that's important because these nodes help the body fight off infections as they contain immune cells and also trap viruses, bacteria, etc.

Lastly, the mesentery, when needed, can produce C-reactive protein. This protein is a warning shot of sorts that the body is experiencing inflammation.
DECATUR  At the end of West Main Street is a growing image representing Decatur, Harristown and Central Illinoiss history.

Approximately three weeks ago, artists Will Harris and Wade Ripple began the process of creating a mural commemorating U.S. 36. The bright colors are growing on the west wall of Pops Place, 4335 W. Main St., Decatur.

We want it to be done this month, Harris said.

U.S. 36 runs from Ohio to Colorado with a portion of it bisected at the corner of South Wyckles Road and West Main Street. The road was once a portion of a historic route and a major thoroughfare in the area. The popular street has since changed throughout the years.

Main Street at one time did intersect the entire village of Harristown, said Harristown Mayor Evelyn Deverell. We still have pieces of Main Street in the village.

Plans for the project began last summer. The goal was to get started in August, but it got cold pretty quick, Ripple said.

Although the current spring-like conditions have derailed the mural during the past few weeks, the artists have begun the finishing touches. Technically were not supposed to paint when its below freezing, Harris said.

But its Illinois, Ripple said about the weather. You never know.

Deverell and the village board collaborated with the artists on the content of the mural. Ripples company BYWR provided the work. The village paid for the artwork through its business fund, according to Deverell. Just to promote Wyckles Corner, she said. Main and Wyckles is our main business district.

The corner is popular for growing businesses, according to the mayor. So it was a good place to promote the village, she said.

The dimensions of the Route 36 wall are 17-by-47-feet, totaling 800 square feet.

Ripple and Harris were given the task of creating images of the once highly traveled Route 36. We were able to come to a nice design with some really engaging elements, Ripple said.

The road was laid in the early 1930s. Details of the mural include many subjects important to the road and the community. The predominant feature, a semitruck, represents the agriculture industry. Abraham Lincoln is represented. A 1950s Buick, once belonging to the Pops Place owner, and a truck from the 1970s have a prominent spot. Scenic images of Harristown are also highlighted. And the depot thats in old Harristown is pictured in the distance, Deverell said.

The Pops Place staff and customers were receptive to the mural. Theyre coming along very quickly, said Michelle Perry, manager of Pops Place. Weve had some people come in to check it out and watch them painting it.

#TogetherDecatur Do you know a person or of a story that exemplifies the best of Decatur? Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983 or dbeckett@herald-review.com.

The artists have created other murals in Decatur, including the Roger Walker image on Eldorado Street and a painting inside St. Patricks church. And were going to be doing one for Johns Hill (school) this month, Harris said.

According to the artists, the Route 36 mural is half finished. Weve managed to cover pretty much the entire wall with color, Ripple said. But we are going to be going over everything and outlining it in black and adding a lot of detail.

Onlookers have stopped by to view the artists while they are working. Were getting a lot of compliments, Ripple said. Its almost like live street art.

Offbeat adventures: Travel to the coolest hidden wonders in every U.S. state Offbeat adventures Alabama: Neversink Pit Alaska: The Upside-Down Forest of Glacier Gardens Arizona: Pumpkin Spring Pool Arkansas: The Gurdon Light California: Institute of Illegal Images Colorado: Magic Mushroom House Connecticut: Gungywamp Delaware: Marian Coffin Gardens Florida: Neptune Memorial Reef Georgia: Fantastic Pit Hawaii: Lithified Sand Dunes Idaho: Big Idaho Potato Hotel Illinois: The Secret Mermaid Indiana: Market Street Catacombs Iowa: The Hobo Museum Kansas: Wamego LSD Missile Silo Kentucky: Broke Leg Falls Louisiana: Escape My Room Maine: Boon Island Light Maryland: Underground Railroad Experience Trail Massachusetts: Museum of Modern Renaissance Michigan: Cherry Point Farm and Market Lavender Labyrinth Minnesota: Orfield Labs Quiet Chamber Mississippi: Margaret's Grocery and Market Missouri: Welch Spring Hospital Ruins Montana: Medicine Rocks State Park Nebraska: Toadstool Geologic Park Nevada: Atomic Survival Town New Hampshire: Sculptured Rocks New Jersey: Abandoned Hagedorn Psychiatric Hospital New Mexico: Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah Wilderness Study Area New York: North Brother Island North Carolina: Blue Ghost Fireflies North Dakota: The Pyramid of North Dakota Ohio: Early Television Museum Oklahoma: Gandini's Circus Oregon: Out 'n' About Treehouse Treesort Pennsylvania: Devil's Hole Ruins Rhode Island: Neutaconkanut Hill Park South Carolina: The Last Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken Restaurant South Dakota: Petrified Wood Park Tennessee: 'The Evil Dead' Cabin Texas: Newman's Castle Utah: Fantasy Canyon Vermont: Freedlyville Quarry Virginia: Great Channels of Virginia Washington D.C.: Riggs Library Washington: Treehouse Point West Virginia: Archive of the Afterlife Wisconsin: Shorewood Ghost Train Wyoming: Hole-in-the Wall Outlaw Hideout
URBANA  A Piatt County farmer accused of concealing grain sales in a scheme to defraud his lenders has pleaded guilty to bank fraud, officials said.

According to a news release from the United States Attorneys Office Central District of Illinois, James R. R. Williams, 63, of rural Cisco, pleaded guilty to four counts of bank fraud on May 2.

The release states Williams admitted that he received a loan of around $4.6 million from First Security Bank and Gifford State Bank for his farming operation, RJW Williams Farms, Inc. in 2016.

All of Williams' assets, including grain, were listed as collateral to secure the loan.

The release said William acknowledged under oath that he began concealing his grain sales from his bank lenders in Oct. 2016. He did so by instructing employees of Archer Daniels Midland Co. grain elevators in Niantic and Weldon to issue four checks to a different individual. Those checks were deposited into a join account held by Williams and that individual.

Williams then used the money for his own benefit, the government argued.

The government also alleged that Williams had ADM issue around 22 checks totaling $540,505.35 in his son's name for grain that was actually sold by Williams and was collateral for his outstanding loan from the dates of Oct. 20, 2014, to Feb. 1, 2017.

Williams faces maximum penalties of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and five years of supervised release for each of the four counts of bank fraud.

Williams was released on bond pending a sentencing hearing scheduled for Sept. 7 at the U.S. Courthouse in Springfield.

The case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation's Office of Inspector General. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Eugene L. Miller is representing the government in the prosecution.
BLOOMINGTON  Police are searching for a McLean County man who failed to show up for his murder trial on Monday morning, and they say he should be considered "armed and dangerous."

A no-bond warrant was issued for Michael Bakana, who is accused of killing 22-year-old Mariah C. Petracca and injuring another woman in a shooting outside a downtown Bloomington bar in January 2021.

"His whereabouts are unknown and he may have fled the Bloomington/Normal area," the Bloomington Police Department said in a social media post. "... If spotted, do not approach this individual, CALL 911 and report your sighting to your local law enforcement agency."

Bakana, of Normal, is described as a 44-year-old Black man, 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighing about 145 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes. Police said he has a "heavy foreign accent." He has previously requested a French translator.

Anonymous tips can also be sent by texting the number 847411 with the word "BPDTIPS" and then a space, followed by the tip information.

The GPS monitoring device that had been attached to Bakana was cut off at about 9:20 a.m. on Raab Road outside north Normal, according to Molly Alvis, a McLean County pretrial services officer.

The device was located and taken into evidence later Monday morning, according to pretrial services.

Alvis told the court that the device showed Bakana went to Champaign earlier Monday and returned to Normal around 8 a.m. She also noted Bakana had been frequenting several auto parts shops, tire shops and other businesses related to vehicles.

Assistant States Attorney Jeff Horve asked Judge Casey Costigan to revoke Bakanas bond and issue a no-bond warrant. He also asked that the trial proceed without him, adding that Bakana had been told that a trial could take place even if he were not present.

Horve said the prosecution always believed the chance that Bakana would flee was high.

The time is now  today  for this trial to start, Horve said. Without the trial starting today, the victims would not receive what they are entitled to according to the Victims Rights Act.

Horve noted Bakana faces up to natural life in prison if convicted. The prosecutor declined to comment after Monday's proceedings because the case is still pending.

Bakanas attorney Clyde Guilamo asked Costigan to hold off on issuing the warrant as he hoped to be able to contact the defendant and get him to court.

He also said because the defense had planned to involve a self-defense strategy, the trial should not proceed without Bakana present.

Bakanas bond had been set at $2 million with 10% to apply and he was released in October, having paid $200,000 plus fees to be let out.

His bond was reduced by $50,000 in March to pay a portion of Bakana's contract with his attorney. At that time, Costigan told Bakana the jury trial would proceed even if he "willfully absences" himself.

On Monday, Costigan revoked Bakanas bond, issued the warrant and said the court would take a recess, giving law enforcement until noon to take Bakana into custody before he decides how and if the trial will proceed.

After giving law enforcement the morning to locate him, Costigan then pushed the trial back to Tuesday morning. If Bakana is found and taken into custody, the trial will proceed. If he is not, Costigan will rule on the states motion to proceed without him present.

In an interview Monday afternoon, Guilamo said, he wanted to remind the public that Bakana is innocent until proven guilty.

"We did have a strong defense going into this case and unfortunately, if this case does end up getting continued, its going to be the situation where we still are confident in our ability to represent him to the fullest, Guilamo said, adding that he is working with Bakana's family to find him and get him to court.

His message to his client was: Mr. Bakana, if youre listening to this, were encouraging you to go ahead and turn yourself into local law enforcement.

Bakana is charged with three counts of murder, one count of attempted murder and two counts of aggravated battery and discharge of a firearm. He was taken into custody the night of the shooting, outside Daddios Bar, 527 N. Main St.

The shooting was captured by a Bloomington police camera outside the bar. The video from that night was played in court during a previous hearing and shows Bakana firing multiple shots at the two women.

Guilamo said that this was a case of self-defense and he disagreed with BPDs statements regarding Bakana.

One of the things that the Bloomington police put out was that he was armed and dangerous.  The reality is this: Mr. Bakana is not armed. Mr. Bakana is not dangerous, Guilamo said, noting that a condition of Bakana's initial bond was to surrender any firearms and his Firearm Owners Identification card.

He also said Bakana has never had any violent offenses before this shooting, and after this incident when he bonded out of custody, hes had no kind of violence whatsoever.

20 wanted fugitives from Illinois prisons EVANS, TRAVON ROMERO, MICHAEL MYLES, ALFRED WITHERSPOON, ISAIH PALOMINO, FERNANDO GONZALEZ, JULIO CARRASCO, MARIO SCOTT, MASSI CORTEZ-VERDUSCO, BLADIMIR COATS, CARRIE SHAFFER, AISHEF BROCK, ADAM HEBRON, ALBERT SCOTT, LARRY FIELDS, LAVAR MANCILLA, ELIU V. SALGADO, EFRAIN POLK, DARRIOUS WHITE, DON C. JR JOHNSON, JAMES E.
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun with scattered thunderstorms. Potential for heavy rainfall. High 81F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies this evening followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms overnight. Low 69F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
ABINGDON, Va.  This Mothers Day may be a bittersweet one for an Abingdon businesswoman.

Cassie Rowe is honoring her late mother by opening a bakery and ice cream shop  something the mother and daughter had dreamed of doing before her mother died unexpectedly just months ago.

Im a firm believer everything happens for a reason, said Rowe, who, along with her business neighbor Kitzi Manuel, jumped at the opportunity to launch the sweet shop Shaked! after retail space recently opened up on West Main Street in Abingdon.

During a soft opening at the 284 W. Main St. business earlier this week, customers feasted their eyes on sweets like decadent brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and milk shakes piled high with toppings.

Our new store has definitely helped to keep my mind off of my loss. Its given me a creative outlet, said Rowe.

The catchy name for the business originated with tourists in mind. We thought what if we had a T-shirt that says We got Shaked! in Abingdon, Virginia? So, we got shaked, said Rowe with a laugh.

Ive always come up with different ideas. I know my mom would be saying right now, Go get em, kid. 

Both women are entrepreneurs who have managed to grow other businesses throughout the years. Rowe opened Abingdon Gifting Company in 2018, and Manuel has owned and operated Love & Light Specialty Boutique, a Christian-based store, for the past three years.

Rowe said she never questioned her mothers support as a business woman. Shed tell everyone about my business. Thats one thing I never questioned  that she was proud of me. She was very confident in my ability to self start and self correct when things didnt always work out.

But, I never would have gotten this far without her, said the daughter as her eyes filled with tears.

The brick-and-mortar store will offer a family experience for customers  something Rowe believes will set her apart from other places.

We want families to come in and enjoy milkshakes or ice cream with each other. Maybe grandpa gets a cup of coffee and a cookie while he lets the grandkids indulge in ice cream. Those grandkids are going to remember spending time with grandpa and going to the Shake shop.

The shop features 20 different topping for 10 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream, a variety of baked items and couture milkshakes piled high with toppings.

So, just try to image a milkshake topped with cheesecake.

For us, the word couture means extravagant and exclusive, explained Rowe.

The baked items served at the shop are the brainchild of Rowe. Manuel likes to get creative with the milkshakes.

All of our homemade cookies are large. We call them mega cookies, laughed Rowe. Theyre close to three times the size of a regular cookie.

A few of their milkshakes are inspired by popular travel themes in Abingdon.

 Campfire by the Creeper  is a smores flavored milkshake. Theyre going to be piled high with all of the goods. Its going to be really fun, she said.

Of course, well serve classics like banana splits.

Popular items this week included the Black Forest Brownie, topped with cream cheese frosting and cherry pie filling.

My mother was a big fan of anything chocolate and chewy, Rowe said. So, we have developed a cookie called Toffee Pretzel Crunch just for her.

Then theres the Fluffer Nutter Cookie Bar, layered with chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter, and marshmallows. Rowe created the dessert because her husband loves peanut butter and she likes marshmallows.

Manuels mother, Pamela Helton of Mendota, Virginia, will come on board to help make cinnamon and sweet rolls and other breads. Its nice to be able to work with my mother, said Manuel, who learned to bake from her mother and great grandmother.

Sweet memories

A baker since childhood, Rowe is incorporating the memory of her mother, Lisa McMullin, into the daily operation of the shop by pulling recipes from one of her mothers favorite cookbooks.

Some of what I am serving are her own recipes, others I tweak a little bit and make them my own, she said. Rowe plans to name a special dessert at the shop after her mother.

Raised as a child of a single mother, Rowe spent many hours in the kitchen, learning to bake from her mother.

At the holidays, wed make cookies and package and ship them to family members all over the world  in Japan and Italy and throughout the country, said Rowe.

She had a recipe book of cookies and pastries and wed go down the list and make each one of them.

With grandparents directly from Italy, Rowe said many of the recipes handed down from her family are Italian based, using Italian techniques.

Every time I would try a new recipe as an adult, Id run to mom to get here to try it. I knew I could take it to her  good or not  for some instant gratification. She would tell me I knocked it out of the park, whether I did or not, she said with a teary smile.

Rowe plans to preserve some of the recipes that were handwritten by her mother by displaying them on the walls at the stop.

No doubt, the Mothers Day season will never be quite the same for Rowe, she said. To help her cope, she will surround herself with people she loves. And, she will remember the good times she and her mother shared.

Im just glad I had her for 31years to help me become the person I am today. Ive learned so many things from her that I will never forget, said the daughter.

I once saw a quote that says I am because she was.

I feel that way about my mother.

Shaked! is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Visit Shaked! on Facebook or call (276) 274-8509 for more information.

Carolyn R. Wilson is a freelance writer in Glade Spring, Virginia. Contact her at citydesk@bristolnews.com.v
ABINGDON, Va.  Abingdon is the latest town to join the ranks of SolSmart designated communities, meaning it is solar-ready.

The town received a Bronze designation, meaning it can create a clear path for businesses and residents to go solar. The Virginia Department of Energy partners with the University of Virginias Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service to serve as a no-cost technical partner for SolSmart.

Clean energy development is an important business recruiting tool for any community and the leaders of Abingdon saw that opportunity when working toward this SolSmart designation, Virginia Energy Deputy Director Will Clear said in the statement. By removing barriers for solar development we expect the town to celebrate economic successes.

To receive the Bronze designation, Abingdons internal processes such as permitting zoning and inspection standards had to undergo a review. SolSmart designated localities remove barriers that could increase costs and time for those wanting to install solar.

Increasing access to solar energy is an important initiative for Abingdon. We want to support sustainability and help our residents and businesses think green. The Sustain Abingdon committee helped clear obstacles by reviewing the zoning ordinance and creating a website for solar energy options, said Sustainability Chair Elizabeth Gardner, owner of Full Bloom Farm House in Abingdon. We are honored to earn the Bronze SolSmart certification and hope this helps support the sustainability of our local community and economy.

Abingdon set the bar for communication and transparency, said Elizabeth Marshall, senior coordinator of the Virginia Solar Initiative at the Weldon Cooper Center. Their website is an excellent model for other communities across the state that are interested in encouraging solar, and their ordinance updates and solar permitting guidance show that their process is predictable and community-minded.

Statewide, over 30 localities and regional commissions have achieved SolSmart designation; nationwide over 470 localities have been designated.
BRISTOL, Tenn.  After months of back and forth, the Bristol Tennessee City Council voted 3-1-1 last week to agree to a $400,000 settlement for the Seven14 Shelby project.

This is the latest in the series of events surrounding the once-promising project planned for a vacant Shelby Street lot.

In Oct. 2019 a different council approved plans for A.G. Commercial to redevelop most of the city block along Shelby Street. Plans called for commercial development on the ground floor and two levels of residential development above.

The site was cleared and prepared but developers were back before the council last August, proposing to eliminate the commercial aspect and instead build 32 condominium units.

Under a 2021 development agreement between the city, the developer  A.G. Commercial  and the citys Industrial Development Board, the developer was incentivized with a more than $1 million forgivable loan for the property that would be forgiven if five specific milestones were met between December 2021 to August 2024. The first milestone was achieved, but not the second, which called for the pre-leasing of half of the commercial space by August 2022.

Last December the council tabled a potential agreement that would have authorized a $585,000 payment to the developers in exchange for getting the property.

Before Tuesdays vote was held, during the councils regular May meeting, Mayor Vince Turner recused himself without explanation from discussing or voting on the measure..

In his comments before casting his vote, Councilman Mahlon Luttrell highlighted that even though this was not the ideal conclusion, it allows the city to move forward.

Was this the best agreement from the get-go? Probably not. Could we have done something different along the way? Probably should have. But heres where were at and in order to move forward, then Im in favor of going ahead and approving the resolution, Luttrell said.

Councilwoman Lea Powers emphasized that the Council had high hopes for the project and wrestled over what to do about it over the past couple of years.

We have grappled with this over the course of several years now, Powers said. We were full steam ahead, and I think the developers were full steam ahead prior to COVID.

The one dissenting vote was cast by Vice Mayor Mark Hutton, who, although understating the reasons why his fellow council members are voting to accept the settlement, expressed his dissatisfaction with the outcome.

I dont like this at all. I recognize it is the best of a really bad situation and I wasnt on Council when this came about, Hutton said. Maybe it is the right way to get things moving forward. But it galls me to write a check for something that I believe from my perspective to be in default.
As a funeral home director, Jon Milton is used to dealing with death, but the issue he recently discussed with legislators on Capitol Hill delves into the realm of horror movies.

Milton and about 200 other members of the National Funeral Directors Association painted macabre images of body brokers, individuals or companies that target those who may want to donate their loved ones body to science or may not be able to afford funeral expenses.

The next-of-kin signs over rights to the body, believing the donation will help others. Instead, they may unwittingly be contributing to a money-making industry in which brokers trade bodies as raw material in a largely unregulated national market, according to the NFDA.

Or, as Milton, the manager of Laurel Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Spotsylvania County put it, body brokers are selling what should have been for medical research to the highest bidder.

A broker can get up to $10,000 or more for a body, according to the NFDA. Bodies can be sold or leased more than once, and Milton said brokers typically will make the most money by selling off six separate pieces: head, arms, legs and torso.

As a result, it can be difficult to track what becomes of donors bodies or body parts, ensure they are handled with dignity and returned to their loved ones after cremation, according to the NFDA.

Grisly practices

A 2017 investigation by Reuters news agency called The Body Trade brought to light many of the grisly practices of body brokers. A reporter contacted a Tennessee brokerage firm and, after a few emails, procured a cervical spine and two human heads, according to the Reuters story.

The cost was $300 per item, plus shipping.

Other news outlets occasionally report on equally bizarre incidents, from people buying parts online and reselling them on Facebook to a November 2021 incident in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, that seems particularly disturbing, even in the context of body brokers.

A World War II veteran wanted to donate his body to science as an act of patriotism, according to a story in The Advocate. His widow carried out his wishes, only to discover that his body was used during a public autopsy at an event known as the Oddities and Curiosities Expo.

A touring group in Portland, Oregon, charged up to $500 per ticket for people to watch the public dissection, advertising there will be several opportunities to get an up close and personal look at the cadaver, according to The Advocate story.

Brokers deal with whole-body donations because, as the NFDA reports, its legal in almost every state for anyone to sell the human remains of adults. Virginia may be one of the few states that has a law on the books. Its a Class 1 misdemeanor to be involved in the trafficking of human dead bodies, according to state code.

Virginia also is one of the few states that requires authorization to have any anatomical material imported into the state, said Rick Sikon, operational director of the Virginia State Anatomical Program. Shipments must be tracked through the Virginia Department of Health.

Sikon said he knows body brokers are out there, but because of the ways laws are written, they cant operate in Virginia.

Then, he amended his statement to say: They cant operate legally.

Wrong and immoral

The funeral home directors point out that donations of organs and other tissues such as skin, eyes and bones are handled in a hospital setting under practices that are heavily regulated by the federal government.

No such regulations exist with donations of whole bodies, and thats what Milton and others are asking Congress to consider. They believe a federal agency should register, track and regulate the work of facilities that receive donated bodies for education and research to make sure those who handle the deceased are trained, licensed and use the proper tools.

From what I learned, said Milton, who started researching the issue four years ago, I could literally (work) in my garage with a cooler and be a body broker.

When people first hear about the issue, as some members of Congress or their legislative staffs did last month, they often have the same reaction, said Lesley Witter, a lobbyist with the NFDA.

People think theres no way thats happening in America, she said. This is 2023 and we dont allow those things to happen.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger said in a statement that no Virginia family should have to go through such heartbreak after losing a loved one. She said she supports stronger measures to crack down on body brokers and prevent the trafficking of human remains.

Sen. Mark Warner said the horrific process of body brokering is wrong and immoral. Its paramount that the wishes of the deceased are respected.

Both said they will review the NFDAs recommendation, the Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act of 2023, when it is introduced on the Hill.

Noble and selfless

As for the prevalence of body brokers in the Fredericksburg area, thats difficult to gauge for the same reason Witter mentioned: theres no tracking or regulation.

Milton has learned from funeral directors in other states that people in his own profession sometimes partner with body brokers by placing pamphlets in their lobbies, aimed at those who perhaps cant afford the cost of a funeral or want to donate to science.

Milton said he hasnt seen any such pamphlets at local funeral homes  and hes looked. But then, in the last month alone, Milton has scheduled memorial services for three families who donated their loved ones bodies to science.

It is a noble and selfless act, he said, hoping the bodies went to legitimate sources, but my heart breaks understanding what is most likely taking place.

Ernie Johnson, owner of Johnson Funeral Home in Locust Grove, said he doesnt know if body brokers are looking for business locally.

I have no idea if its taking place, he said. But it would not surprise me in todays world.

Read the fine print

How does a family respect the wishes of a loved one who wants to contribute to science or medical research? How can people know if theyre dealing with reputable representatives or body brokers?

In many cases, universities and state-run anatomy programs arent allowed to solicit donations of bodies; people have to come to them, according to the NFDA. Theres a vital need for donated bodies, according to those interviewed, in medical studies, for surgeons learning new techniques or forensic students tracking the way bodies decompose under certain conditions.

No models, films or books can substitute for the actual study of the human body itself, according to the Virginia State Anatomical Program website. Hundreds of doctors, nurses and other health professionals studying in Virginia medical schools, colleges and universities must learn how the human body is constructed before they can successfully treat living patients.

The VSAP is the only agency in Virginia authorized to receive donations of human bodies for scientific studies. It provides donors, which is how the program refers to donated bodies, to six Virginia medical schools, 17 colleges and universities, five community colleges, and two biomechanical research facilities, according to its website.

Even before COVID-19 changed practically every aspect of health care, the VSAP didnt have enough donors to meet the needs, said Sikon, the director. It couldnt accept bodies of those who died of COVID, for fear of contaminating researchers, and thats impacted donations which had numbered about 450 bodies a year, he said.

For many students in health care fields  including those learning the mortuary trade as Milton did  a donated body often is the persons first patient, Sikon said. In those settings, he said bodies are treated with respect and dignity, and he described moving memorial services, held at universities and medical schools, to honor those who donated their own bodies or their loved ones bodies to research.

The Virginia program takes in whole bodies only, Sikon said. It doesnt buy bodies from other places or get paid for what it provides to teaching facilities, except for a fee to cover operational expenses to get and prepare the bodies. That cost averages about $2,300 per body, he said.

However, there are times when researchers need specific parts, such as knees or shoulders for surgeons being trained on joint replacements. Nobody wants to waste a donation and use only one piece, so there may be times when segmented parts are sent to various places, Sikon said.

In those cases, next-of-kin have to give their permission for that type of usage, Sikon said.

He offered the same advice as Milton and others in the funeral business: Look into the donation, well ahead of time if possible, and know what youre signing. Read the fine print, which should indicate if the donation will stay whole or be segmented.

Ask about possible uses and dont authorize unwanted ones, Milton said.

Thats really what it comes down to, being informed and doing a little research and understanding what is going to take place, Sikon said, adding his agency stresses transparency with potential donors and their families. They appreciate that and it leaves nothing to the imagination.
HICKORY  The Helpful Hardware Company welcomes Bethlehem Ace Hardware & Hallmark, Hickory, to its growing family of 17 Ace Hardware stores in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Bethlehem Ace Hardware & Hallmark has long served the Hickory area under the leadership of Randy and LaShae Bock.

The Helpful Hardware Company will provide additional resources to enhance the shopping experience for the Hickory community, offering an extensive range of products and services such as, a Hallmark Gold Crown Shop, an expansive gift shop, a small engine repair shop, and a large selection of the best brands offered at Ace Hardware stores, including Benjamin Moore, Craftsman, Weber, Big Green Egg, Traeger, STIHL, and SCAG lawnmowers.

Bethlehem Ace Hardware & Hallmark is The Helpful Hardware Companys second location in North Carolina. The company acquired Indian Trail Ace Hardware in 2021 and continues to pursue expansion opportunities in the greater-Charlotte market.

Bethlehem Ace Hardware & Hallmark is an exciting new addition to our chain of stores in the Southeast and broadens our presence int North Carolina. This strategic move aligns with our vision for continued growth and expansion throughout the Southeast, and we look forward to providing superior customer service and product offerings to the Hickory community for years to come," said Darin Workman, president of The Helpful Hardware Company.

The Helpful Hardware Company, headquartered in Cumming, Georgia, is a member of the largest retailer-owned, cooperative, Ace Hardware. Founded in 2014, The Helpful Hardware Company has grown to 17 stores across the Southeast.

The company is led by Workman, who has over 25 years of leadership experience in the hardware industry. Together with JPB Partners, a family office investor out of Hanover, Maryland, The Helpful Hardware Company continues to seek more acquisition opportunities.
HICKORY  The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will conduct its annual national food drive on Saturday, May 13.

The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is the country's largest single-day food drive and provides residents with an easy way to donate food to those in need.

The Salvation Army food pantry relies heavily on the Letter Carriers food drive, Maj. Angela Repass of The Salvation Army of Greater Hickory said. The food collected means that local men, women and children do not have to go hungry. This drive literally feeds our neighbors.

Every post office in Catawba County participates, and letter carriers will collect the donations residents leave near their mailboxes as they deliver mail along their postal routes on May 13.

People are encouraged to leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, canned meats and fish, pasta, rice or cereal next to their mailbox before the regular mail delivery on Saturday.

The food is distributed to local nonprofits including the Hickory Soup Kitchen, Eastern Catawba Cooperative Christian Ministry (ECCCM) in Newton, The Salvation Army in Hickory, Good Samaritan Food Pantry and Open Door Homeless Mission.

And every item donated has an impact.

Last year, the Hickory Soup Kitchen served an average of more than 150 people and 225 plates of food every day, and in 2021, ECCCMs Charlie Bunn Food Pantry moved over 1.5 million pounds of food through its food pantry.

Residents are asked not to donate frozen food, homemade food, home-canned items or items that have expired or are in glass containers.

The Letter Carriers' food drive is held annually on the second Saturday in May in 10,000 cities and towns in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam, according to the NALC.

Over the course of its 31-year history, the drive has collected well over 1.88 billion pounds of food, thanks to a postal service universal delivery network that spans the entire nation.

Food banks and pantries often receive most of their donations during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons. By springtime, many pantries are depleted, entering the summer low on supplies at a time when many school breakfast and lunch programs are not available to children in need.

It remains as important as ever, with many people facing economic struggles. Hunger affects about one in six people around the country, including millions of children, senior citizens and military veterans.

Learn more at https://nalc.org/community-service/food-drive or call the United Way at 828-327-6851.

To learn about local food resources in Catawba County, visit www.ccunitedway.com/catawba-county-food-resources.
City Seeks Additional Water As Area Continues To Grow City Manager Megan Henderson reported to the Hillsboro City Council Tuesday night, May 2, that the city is continuing to work to increase its water supply to support current and future development.



Henderson said that U.S. Representative Jake Ellzey is advocating on the city's behalf as it asks the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to consider raising the level of Lake Aquilla.



For the complete story, see the Monday, May 8, edition of The Reporter Newspaper.


LW State Park To Participate In Statewide S'mores Party Lake Whitney State Park will get out the graham crackers, chocolate bars and marshmallows Saturday, May 13, as one of 80 Texas State Parks hosting an official 100th birthday party.



Texas State Parks will toast 100 smore years of outdoor fun with everyones favorite campfire treat. Participating parks offer events to introduce people of all ages and skill levels to the outdoors with smores-themed fun, from making solar-baked smores to a smores-themed star party.



The event will begin at the Lake Whitney State Park Recreation Hall, where attendees will gather by a fire to make s'mores.



For the complete story, see the Monday, May 8, edition of The Reporter Newspaper.


Emissaries of the German government surrendered on 7 May 1945, at General Eisenhower's Headquarters in Reims, France. The next day, 8 May, was designated as V-E Day (Victory in Europe), the official end of the war in Europe. The American contributions to the liberation of Europe had been predominant in both manpower and as an arsenal for democracy with American factories producing weapons, tanks, ships, and planes for ourselves and our allies. U.S. Army Generalship proved remarkably effective as their theories of war were put to the test on the battlefields with enormous success. It was however, the steadfast determination, courage and tenacity of the American Soldier that broke the German ability and will to resist.

We honor and remember the service and sacrifice of the Soldiers who served in WWII:

Whether they served in the Army Ground Forces, Army Air Forces or Army Service Forces, we honor the 11 million American Soldiers who defended freedom and defeated fascism and tyranny 75 years ago.

America will always remember the more than 135,000 American Soldiers who were killed in Western Europe.

We commemorate the events of WWII to educate the public about the Armys proud history as a way to inspire men and women to serve today.

American Soldiers turned their attention to humanitarian missions to ease the human suffering caused by the war:

U.S. Army soldiers helped the civilian populations throughout Europe, in liberated countries as well as Germany, rebuild shattered lives and destroyed communities.

Civilian populations were administered by the U.S. Army through an effective military government system to restore civil authority and the rule of law.

Prisoners of war and civilian internees were cared for and repatriated, displaced populations were reunited or resettled, and economies rejuvenated, largely through the contributions of the U.S. Army and its Soldiers.

The U.S. Army remained in Germany first as an occupying force then as an ally in defense of a free Europe: -U.S. Army Soldiers demonstrated the friendship between the United States and its North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) partners, and the new ally, the Federal Republic of Germany, as the post-World War II era evolved into the Cold War standoff with the Soviet Union.

The U.S. Army helped to maintain the peace by deterring a communist invasion of Europe through Germany, and possibly a Third World War.

For 75 years, the U.S. Army and its Soldiers have demonstrated that former enemies could become friends united in the pursuit of freedom for all people.

DID YOU KNOW

Of the ninety-one U.S. Army divisions mobilized in World War II, fifteen served in the Mediterranean and sixty-one served in Western and Central Europe, and seven of which served in both.

V-E Day marked the end of World War II in the European Theater of Operations (ETO) on 8 May 1945.

The United States had already started planning to send divisions from Europe to the Pacific for the anticipated invasion of Japan.
Vagrancy laws were common in the 19th-century, giving local sheriffs the authority to arrest "vagrants" who were unemployed, hanging out on the street and potentially looking for trouble. But the Black Codes in states like Mississippi and South Carolina created a whole new category of vagrancy that only applied to Black people.

"After the Civil War, the South was destroyed," says Bailey. "There was no infrastructure left. You have poor whites and newly freed Blacks, and a lot of people didn't have jobs. But these vagrancy laws specifically attacked African Americans."

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According to the Black Codes, any Black person without a work contract from a white planter could be arrested for vagrancy. That means that no Black person could farm for themselves or work independently as a blacksmith or carpenter. They had to work for a white planter  often the very same person who formerly enslaved them  or go to jail.

Poor Southern whites, on the other hand, could do whatever they pleased. They could work or not work and they would never be charged with vagrancy.

A Black person arrested for vagrancy under the Black Codes would then enter a cycle of forced labor from which there was little hope of escape. First, they would be hit with a fine so exorbitant that they'd never be able to pay it. To pay off the debt, they would then be auctioned off (literally sold) to a planter who would pay the "vagrant's" wages directly to the state. Once a Black person was convicted of vagrancy, there was no incentive for former slave masters to ever set them free.

"Your labor is costing almost nothing," says Bailey. "They don't have to clothe you, they only have to feed you enough to keep you alive. And there's this sense that even if one vagrant dies, you could get another. Under this guise of vagrancy, they knew it was an unlimited source of Black bodies."
Of course, Smith wasn't the only attendee of Jackson's inaugural to write about the experience. Daniel Webster, then a senator from Massachusetts, was also no fan of Jackson's politics, but he came away with a different opinion of the "monstrous crowd of people" who descended upon the city.

" " The crowd goes "wild" at the White House after Andrew Jackson's Presidential inauguration in 1829. Bettman/Getty Images

"I never saw anything like it before," wrote Webster. "Persons have come 500 miles to see General Jackson and they really seem to think that the Country is rescued from some dreadful danger."

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Instead of describing the inaugural audience as uncivilized rabble, though, as Smith had, Webster blamed the crush of humanity on "thousands of expectants for office who throng the City, & clamor all over the Country."

In Webster's eyes, the impressive crowds at Jackson's inaugural weren't just members of the president's adoring public, but also political aspirants looking for a cushy government job with the new administration.

"Throwing 'office-seeker' into the mix undercuts the idea that the outpouring of people into Washington was somehow pure and noble and un-self-interested," says Feller, who also thinks it's notable that in Webster's long description of the day's events, he doesn't even mention the allegedly shameful party. "If it had been that riotous scene that Smith reports, you'd think [Webster] would have mentioned it."

It should be noted that Smith's account, while widely quoted, isn't the only evidence that something ugly may have happened at the White House on March 4, 1829.

Newspapers functioned differently in the early 1800s, explains Feller. In a "small town" like Washington, D.C., it was expected that everyone would already know the local news, so city papers were usually stuffed with national or international headlines. That explains why the Washington papers didn't waste ink on the inaugural party, but why one of the most colorful accounts showed up a week later in the New York Spectator.

"Here was the corpulent epicure grunting and sweating for breath," wrote the Spectator, "the dandy wishing he had no toes, the tight-laced Miss, fearing her person might receive some permanently deforming impulse, the miser hunting for his pocket-book, the courtier looking for his watch, and the office-seeker in an agony to reach the President."

In 1978, the Tennessee Historical Society dug up a few more contemporary accounts of the infamous inaugural bash for one of Tennessee's most famous sons. "Sheer bedlam" was how the Historical Society characterized the party at the White House. Rep. Charles Miner from Pennsylvania offered a description that may have been the inspiration for Smith's own account.

"Orange punch by barrels-full was made," wrote Miner, "but as the waiters opened the door to bring it out, a rush would be made, the glasses broken, the pails of liquor upset, and the most painful confusion prevailed. To such a degree was this carried, that wine and ice-creams could not be brought out to the ladies. . ." Miner was also shocked to see "men, with boots heavy with mud, standing on the damask satin-covered chairs, from their eagerness to get a sight of the President."

It's clear from these corroborating accounts that lots and lots of people showed up at the White House on inauguration day, some to shake Old Hickory's hand, some to ask him for a job, and some presumably to get free punch and ice cream. Indeed the crush forced Jackson to retreat to the National Hotel for his safety.

But was it the carnival that Smith so dramatically described or an overblown legend that fits a convenient political stereotype? Sen. James Hamilton of South Carolina, who was a Jackson supporter, described the inaugural event as a "regular Saturnalia," but added that most of the damage was minimal.

"You might be surprised at how often this happens with history," says Feller. "One particular quotation or anecdote gets picked up as being absolute truth, then it becomes of much greater importance than it was at the time, because it just seems to fit."

Now That's Interesting White House inaugural receptions continued for several decades after the Jackson debacle until afternoon inaugural parades created scheduling conflicts. President George H.W. Bush revived the idea in 1989 with a "White House American Welcome," inviting the public to the White House the day after his inauguration.
In the first half of this years intermediate level Hungarian matriculation, the students have to interpret an educational text about bull blood by a Hungarian author. For this, the students are given 12 questions, for example, they have to decide whether different statements are true or false. Then a short text creation task follows, here you can choose whether, as the secretary of the student union, a Outstanding student and athlete award to win, a letter of recommendation is written for a specific candidate, using the candidates CV data. Or they write an argument about how Bring your bike to school! according to the program, it is not necessary to go to school by car, a bicycle is also good for this purpose. Students must decide whether they agree with the positive statements listed in the campaign text.

The Hungarian language and literature intermediate level exam lasts four hours. The students are given two sets of tasks. They have to solve the first in 90 minutes, which is the 60-minute text comprehension and 30-minute text creation task already described above.

Students are then given the second part of the worksheet with the traditional essay questions. High school graduates are given 150 minutes to analyze a literary work based on given criteria, but they can also choose a comparative interpretation of two works.

Although todays exam officially lasts until 1 p.m., some schools may be able to start the exam later due to administrative, traffic, or other reasons, so there may still be people in the country writing the graduation assignments until 2 p.m.

In the afternoon on Telex, Peter Kovacs, the teacher of Budapesti Fazekas Mihaly Gyakorlo Primary and High School, will also explain the possible solutions to the essay tasks in short videos.

Comprehension is worth 40 points

72,569 students take exams in Hungarian language and literature at the intermediate level and 1,771 at the advanced level. A total of 100 points can be obtained in Hungarian with the intermediate level tasks. 40 points are awarded for understanding the text, and 10 points for creating the text for the first part of the task. In the second part of the task, which includes art analysis, 25 points are awarded for the content, 5 points for the text structure, and 10 points for the linguistic sophistication. In addition to these, 8 points are awarded for spelling and 2 points for spelling.

At the advanced level, 100 points can also be obtained: 40 points for the text comprehension, language and literary literacy tasks, 50 points for the text creation tasks, and the remaining 10 points are also for spelling and writing style.

In the coming weeks, more than 111,100 people are expected to graduate at 1,163 locations. In total, more than 74,000 high school graduates graduate, the rest take advanced, remedial, supplementary or level-raising exams. The baccalaureate has been two-level since 2005. The intermediate-level exam tests more general knowledge, while the advanced-level exams, which give significant extra points for university admissions, contain more difficult and complicated questions.
Well, this is what you absolutely do not expect when you stay somewhere.

An evening shift manager at a Tennessee hotel has been arrested after police say she snuck into a mans room and fondled his toes. David Neal of Nashville 4th Avenue South Hilton Hotel Her 52-year-old manager allegedly snuck into a male guests room while he was sleeping on March 30 and began having sex with her leg.

Neal used a key card to gain access to the room and entered around 5 a.m., according to Nashville City Police. The guest told police that she woke up to find Neal running his mouth around her toes.

Police say the man recognized Neal as a hotel employee who had come to his room the day before to fix his TV. Neal subsequently admitted to police that he entered the room, but claimed he did so because he smelled smoke and wanted to make sure the guest was OK.

Police said the man never reported smelling smoke to security, and there were no other reports of guests or staff smelling smoke at the hotel. The room key was never found by police, Neal told investigators he threw it away.

The man was arrested and charged with aggravated burglary and assault. He is currently in jail on $27,000 bail.

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State Treasurer Dale Folwell faces an uphill climb in his bid for North Carolina governor in 2024, according to two early polls, including one done by high-profile conservative groups.

But some political analysts believe that Lt. Gov. Mark Robinsons frontrunner status for the GOP nomination with his embrace of polarizing rhetoric carries significant risk to the party as a whole in the November 2024 general election.

The latest statewide poll from SurveyUSA, released last week and sponsored by conservative groups Civitas and John Locke Foundation, found Robinson with support from 43% of 707 likely Republican primary votes. That included 51% from potential Triad primary voters.

Meanwhile, Winston-Salem native Folwell was fourth at 4% overall and 7% in the Triad.

Tom Campbell, with NC Spin, predicted in an April blog that North Carolina Republicans will have a Come to Jesus moment about Robinsons candidacy and ultimately support Folwell.

Robinson is the first Black person to be elected as lieutenant governor in the state, but his stances have garnered him little support among Black voters in the state, who tend to lean Democratic.

In North Carolina, the lieutenant governor has a limited role, mostly presiding at times over state Senate floor sessions.

Folwell has cited his four terms in the N.C. House, as deputy Commerce Department secretary and two terms as state treasurer as his credentials for being governor.

The root word of governor is to govern, and I am uniquely qualified to be the CEO of the largest business in North Carolina, Folwell said.

In response to the two polls, Folwell said they "reflect one public servant who actually shows up and does their job with character, compentecy and common sense versus one who shirks his duties that voters pay him to do.

"It's walk versus talk, and taxpayers are sick of it."

Other candidates

In the SurveyUSA poll, two potential, but undeclared, candidates in former congressman Mark Walker and state Agriculture commissioner Steve Troxler had 9% and 8% in support, respectively.

About 37% of potential statewide primary voters were undecided.

Like Folwell, Walker also has Winston-Salem ties. Hes graduate of Piedmont Bible College, now Carolina University and was ordained at Calvary Baptist Church.

Mark Robinsons lead in the gubernatorial race is roughly correlative with his strong name recognition and favorability among likely GOP primary voters, John Locke Foundation president Donald Bryson said in a statement.

However, with over a third of voters still undecided, there is still time for other candidates to make their case to voters over the next 10 months.

Left-leaning Carolina Forwards poll also shows Robinson being several dozen percentage points ahead of Folwell.

The High Point University poll conducted in March focused on the favorability rating of the two perceived governor front-runners: Democratic attorney general Josh Stein and Robinson. No other declared or potential governor candidate was included.

Robinson was viewed favorably by 22%, unfavorable by 21% and unsure or not familiar from 57%.

Stein was viewed favorably by 19%, unfavorably by 23% and unsure or not familiar from 58%.

To put the poll into context, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper was 46% favorable and 34% unfavorable, the Republican-controlled N.C. Supreme Court was 40% favorable and 26% unfavorable, and Republican-controlled General Assembly 39% favorable and 27% unfavorable.

Poll officials said Robinson and Stein were in a similar situation of relatively low-name recognition among the survey respondents.

Thats one of the things I guess about a gubernatorial campaign, or a U.S. Senate campaign or a presidential campaign, is that there will be a lot of money, a lot of actions trying to raise the profile, Martin Kifer, chair and associate professor of political science and director of HPU, told Wilmington TV CBS17.

Folwell campaign

Folwell declared his candidacy on March 25, citing his dogged belief that North Carolinians want a governor dedicated to leading  rather than sociopolitical attacks.

Folwell said some of his confidence that a run for governor is viable comes from having received the second-highest number of statewide votes by a Republican in 2020 at 2.81 million. He trailed just Steve Troxlers 2.9 million for state Agriculture commissioner.

Folwell had 12,143 more votes than Robinson, who was third at just more than 2.8 million, as well as former President Donald Trump at 2.76 million, U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis at 2.66 million and GOP governor candidate Dan Forest at 2.59 million.

My core supporters will be those who have heard and seen that when it comes to saving lives, minds and money, I have performed in all my previous and current positions, Folwell said. They want me to extend that to being governor.

Folwell does not concede that Robinson is the front-runner, stressing that nothing Mark Robinson has said or done has influenced me in any way, shape or form in terms of running for governor.

Within the state GOP, I am convinced they want someone who attacks problems, and not people, and offers solutions, Folwell said. The GOP has never been about any one person in North Carolina, nor should it be. Im going to let him be who he is, and Im going to be who I am.

Its about conservative principles, and Im the one who had a track record for following those, Folwell said.

Folwell acknowledges that he is viewed as prickly by some North Carolinians, including within his own party. He has a knack for latching onto a perceived injustice with a clinched bite, sometimes to his own detriment.

During his two terms of treasurer, Folwell has butted heads with the states largest health-care systems, including encouraging state legislators from both parties to introduce bills to rein in patient costs and reduce the amount of patient medical debt.

Robinson candidacy

As Robinson has sought higher-profile status by attending regional and national conservative and far-right-wing conferences and events, his divisive comments have gained national recognition as well.

In October, Robinson faced calls for him to resign as lieutenant governor from elected officials and LGBTQ advocacy groups over comments he made criticizing sexual education and likening gay and transgender people to filth.

In a speech he delivered in November 2021 at Berean Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, Robinson compared being gay to what the cows leave behind as well as maggots and flies, who he said all serve a purpose in Gods creation, according to news reports.

In a CNN profile on Robinson posted Friday, the cable news organization focused on Robinson having a long history of remarks viciously mocking and attacking teenage survivors of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., for their advocacy for gun control measures.

In (social media) posts after the shooting, Robinson called the students spoiled, angry, know it all CHILDREN, spoiled little bastards, and media prosti-tots. 

Robinson has said he can separate his personal and public-office views, including how he would serve as governor.

Kifer told the Journal last week that the HPU Poll will be challenged in how to present poll questions to address Robinsons divisiveness.

That may be a difficult question to pose and analyze at this point, Kifer said.

I think we would have a variety of people on the poll, and folks will be able to see their relative levels of support/favorability.

Maybe later we can get a better look at the effects of having particular people on the ballot for other partisans, Kifer said. We are a ways out from primary season and there are a lot of state and national developments that might be relevant.

National profile

Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, considers the North Carolina governors race as the most intriguing for the 2024 cycle and a current toss up in his Crystal Ball projections.

Sabato said the biggest factor in the governors race is North Carolinians recent preference for a Democrat in the seat.

By 2024, (Republicans) will have held the executive mansion for just four of the last 32 years, Sabato said.

Sabato said Steins success in winning two attorney general races may be similar to another Democratic Josh who was just elevated from attorney general to governor  Pennsylvanias Josh Shapiro.

Like Stein, Shapiro compiled a winning electoral record in his own right, but was helped by a controversial opponent.

In North Carolina, Republicans also seem likely to produce such a candidate.

Sabato said that despite a trail of problematic comments, Robinson has established a strong rapport with Republican primary voters  a December poll from the Differentiators (a GOP firm) found him polling at 60% in a hypothetical primary scenario.

Sabato said Folwell, as well as a faint appeal for Republican U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis to run for the GOP nomination, would be safer choices than Robinson.

But, may also be harder sells to a GOP primary electorate.

At this point, Stein against Robinson clearly seems the likeliest general election scenario  tellingly, in his announcement video, Stein singled out Robinson.

Sabato warned that Robinson could become the next Doug Mastriano, the failed Republican candidate for Pennsylvania governor back by former President Donald Trump.

Still, North Carolina is a tougher state for Democrats than Pennsylvania.

Though Robinson was running for a lower-profile office in 2020, and likely got less scrutiny than he would have as a candidate for governor, some of his more divisive statements were already public, Sabato said.

Perspective

Campbell said in an April 6 post that Folwell was compelled to declare his candidacy before Robinsons April 22 announcement.

Political pundits are asking why Dale Folwell is running and why he announced so soon? The two-term treasurer would be a shoo-in for a third term, so why run? Campbell asked.

A two-word answer to both questions is: Mark Robinson.

Campbell described Folwell as a policy wonk and Robinson as a morality firebrand.

Campbell said he questions whether Folwell would have run for governor if a less controversial candidate, such as Troxler or Walker, were the front-runner.

I think the treasurer is convinced, as I have often stated, that if Mark Robinson wins the Republican gubernatorial nomination it will ensure that North Carolina elects another Democrat as governor, regardless of who that person might be, Campbell said.

Theres no question the outcome will be a defining moment for the GOP in North Carolina. Many of the Holshouser-Martin-Broyhill Republicans have either left the party or are have been hibernating since 2017.

This gubernatorial primary will draw a line in the sand, forcing those in the party to choose sides.

Campbell said Democrats are praying that Donald Trump will be the GOP presidential nominee and Mark Robinson the gubernatorial candidate. They see that as their best chances for big blue victories in 2024.

Campbell said his spin is that I dont see either Trump or Robinson becoming their partys nominees.

I foresee Republicans having a come to Jesus epiphany to avoid an Apocalypse. Im not certain who the presidential nominee will be, but believe Dale Folwell will be the Republican nominee for governor.
The Court of Appeals Dusseldorf in Germany has reversed the decision of the lower court and ruled in favour of professional communications technologies and solutions provider Hytera and its subsidiary HMF Smart Solutions, dismissing its patent infringement proceedings filed by Motorola Solutions back in 2017 and 2018.

The Court of Appeals said the patent-in-suit was not infringed by Hytera and HMF.

The Court of Appeals also ordered Motorola Solutions to pay the costs of the court proceedings in the first and second instances and the decision is preliminarily enforceable for Hytera and HMF, Hytera said in a press statement.

In 2017, Motorola Solutions filed a complaint alleging infringement of its European patent EP 2 342 851 B1 by Hyteras Pseudo-Trunking/TDMA direct mode/TX-none radio functionality.

The complaint was initially filed against HMF (Hytera Mobilfunk GmbH back then).

After Hytera joined the proceedings, Motorola added a new complaint against Hytera, resulting in two parallel proceedings.

The Regional Court Dusseldorf found infringement of MSIs patent in the first instance decisions but Hytera and HMF appealed the decision.

According to reports, the Regional Court ruled that Motorola was entitled to monetary remedies including extra damages for copyright infringement.

The Regional Court said Hytera violated Motorola Solutions right. The damage was flagrant and constituted a serious industrial theft of its proprietary source code.

Court of Appeals Dusseldorf reversed the Regional Courts decision and found the patent-in-suit was not infringed and dismissed Motorolas complaints.
COMPANY NEWS: Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise, a leading provider of communications, networking and cloud solutions tailored to customers industries, acknowledged its top performing partners at its local Connex 2023 partner event. Building on the successes of past ALE Connex flagship events, this year Connex23 brought together more than 50 partner organisations from the ANZ region.

Themed Technology for Good, Connex23 touched on how ALE is leveraging their expertise, solutions, and partnerships to enable partners to drive sustainable business for their customers and create meaningful impact for society as a whole.

The conference also discussed how businesses can adopt digital age communications via different subscription-based offerings that will provide secure business communications to end customers, as well as how ALEs digital age network offering provides an agile and scalable network infrastructure. The local ALE Team also shared customer success stories representing different verticals and partners.

Nokia, an important alliance partner, shared how they have accelerated transformation and leveraged new industry opportunities through their vertical partnerships with ALE.

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ALE also recognised outstanding partners at Connex23 via their Partner Awards, which recognises partners that have excelled in performance, innovation, and growth across key verticals. The awards come on the heels of ALEs 360 Partner Experience (360PX) global partner programme which launched in April, offering a new a la carte accreditation framework that supports partners as they move towards XaaS and subscription-based solutions.

2022 was a fantastic year for the ALE ANZ Region. Overall, we achieved clear double-digit growth, both in orders and sales. Our Cloud business was the star, with our Rainbow Communication & Collaboration platform showing accelerated year on year growth. Our Cloud telephony solutions showed a similar growth trend, said ALE country business leader ANZ Maud Holvast.

Our mission critical communications and messaging solutions achieved significant growth too, confirming the continued interest and need for highly robust and secure CPE communication solutions; especially in the Healthcare, Government, Energy & Utilities and Hospitality sectors. Thanks to the excellent management of our supply chain, we also achieved solid year on year growth for our LAN and WLAN business, with our next gen Wi-Fi solution (Stellar) starting to take off. We could not have achieved these amazing results without the support of our partners, and wed like to congratulate Nexon, DXC Technology and VOIP on their growth Awards, said Holvast.

The close collaboration and teamwork with our robust and experienced partner network enable the creation of sustainable and future-proof solutions vital for success of our customers, said ALE APAC senior vice president Ilya Gutlin.

This event is an opportunity for us to acknowledge and recognise our business partners for their exceptional performance and dedication to customer success, especially as we work together to address focused industry needs.

Congratulations to the following ALE ANZ partners who have demonstrated excellence in the implementation of Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise solutions and, through their expertise, helped customers overcome todays business challenges:

Connex23 Business Partner Awards - ANZ

Rainbow Growth Award 2022 DXC Technology

DXC Technology, a long-standing premium partner with ALE, has excellent capability across the full ALE solutions range, including mission critical telephony, UC & Collaboration, Cloud and Networks. Thanks to the strong partnership between DXC Technology and ALE, especially for Healthcare, Government, Hospitality and Education, DXC has consistently shown great results throughout the years. 2022 showed that it was the cloud projects, across multiple customers and industries that generated the strongest growth year on year, leading to a strong outcome for 2022 overall.

Network Growth Award 2022  VoIP

VoIP, a long-standing premium partner of ALE, has been recognised with the Network Growth Award. VoIP is a renowned integrator that boasts strong ALE capabilities across the board. Consistently, VoIP invests in their skillset and adopts new ALE solutions and partnerships as we bring them to market. Always on the forefront with ALE and understanding that the ALE network portfolio, combined with strong delivery lead times, posed a clear opportunity in the market, VOIP were quick to win new logo projects across multiple verticals and different networking product sets, including our Nokia portfolio. This move has effectively opened up more market opportunities and expanded our joint footprints, ultimately leading to VoIP being the deserving winner of the Network Growth Award.

Vertical Growth Award 2022 (APAC Region)

Nexon Asia Pacific has been recognised for their success in the healthcare sector and placing ALE solutions into mission critical environments like hospitals, police stations and fire stations.

About Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise delivers the customised technology experiences enterprises need to make everything connect.

ALE provides digital-age networking, communications and cloud solutions with services tailored to ensure customers success, with flexible business models in the cloud, on premises, and hybrid. All solutions have built-in security and limited environmental impact.


include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> President Joe Biden wants all Pentagon vehicles to be electric by 2030  in just six years and seven months. Americas fearless leader previewed this policy on Earth Day 2022.

Were going to start the process where every vehicle in the United States military, every vehicle, is going to be climate-friendly  every vehicle, Biden said in Seattle that April 22. I mean it.

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm just reiterated this objective.

Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) asked Granholm at an April 26 Armed Services Committee hearing, Do you support the military adopting that EV fleet by 2030?< I do, and I think we can get there, Granholm replied.

Those who have worn Americas uniform find this jaw-droppingly stupid. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. Anyone who has even a little experience in military logistics recognizes Joe Bidens E.V. mandate as a political farce, House Armed Services Committee member Jim Banks (R-Indiana) told me. The Navy Reserve officer and Senate candidate added: As an Afghanistan war veteran, I wish Biden DoDs top brass had the courage to put our national security before Green New Deal fantasies and call out this harmful and ridiculous order.

I encountered a lot of IEDs on dirt roads in Afghanistan, but no charging stations, said Matt Pottinger, who served three combat deployments as a Marine and later as Deputy National Security Advisor. We rely on China for most of our EV supply chain, and that trend is worsening. It was hard enough when we depended on Middle Eastern allies for our energy needs. To put those needs  even for our military  in the hands of our chief adversary is, to use a technical term, pretty dumb.

Bidens pretty dumb political farce raises numerous unintentionally hilarious questions:

Where exactly would one plug in a Jeep, truck, tank, or armored personnel carrier in a blistering desert or steamy jungle?

If such charging stations existed, wouldnt the enemy neutralize them, to hobble US armed forces?

If American GIs discovered functioning charging stations, would they halt their advance for, say, 30 to 45 minutes to recharge  at least once or twice daily?

Would US soldiers bring travel adapters to plug their EVs into overseas charging stations?

Imagine going to war, youre in an all-electric Humvee, your batteries are low, and its time for a charge, but youre behind enemy lines, one Louisianan hypothesized via Twitter. You pull up to the nearest charging station controlled by the enemy. They let you charge before starting battle. The war continues.

How would the Allied march from D-Day to Berlin have looked if George S. Patton, Maxwell Taylor, Bernard Law Montgomery, and other commanders had relied on electric vehicles? Would Adolf Hitler have left charging stations conveniently connected to the grid and ready for the Third Army to refresh their Sherman tanks en route to the Battle of the Bulge? Or, more likely, would der Fuhrer have ordered SS saboteurs to dynamite every one of those damn things as the Nazis retreated, from Burgundy to Bastogne?

Alternatively, Patton and his men could have hauled mobile, solar-powered charging stations, so tanks and other vehicles could boost their voltage while dodging incoming Wehrmacht artillery.

Allied troops also would have confronted, in Monty Pythons words, a teensy problemette.

The skies above the Battle of the Bulge were notoriously cold, dark, and overcast in December 1944. The clouds were so thick that Allied pilots could not parachute supplies to friendly forces who were invisible beneath the dense gray.

Theoretically, had Patton roared into Nazi-occupied Belgium under an EV mandate, tapping into a woke, solar-powered grid would have been useless. There and then, particularly around the winter solstice, sun rays were as scarce as synagogues.

Obviously, 2023 is not 1944. That said, relying on the enemys green infrastructure or schlepping solar- and wind-power generators would cripple US troops as they attacked hostile combatants.

This is more lunacy from the jet-setting climate grifters with zero basis in science or common sense, said John Ullyot, a US Marine Corps veteran and former spokesman for the National Security Council. EVs have no place on the battlefield unless its aiding the enemy. They would slow us down, crimp our tactical options, and make our forces easy targets against the weakest of adversaries. If Biden steers us into this woke cul-de-sac, taxpayers should insist that every military EV be delivered with a Coexist bumper sticker already pasted on the back.

So, whats next from the geniuses at Joe Bidens Green New Pentagon and the Department of Energy, the guardians of Americas nuclear arsenal?

Why not an electric-ship mandate?

US Navy aircraft carriers could stop every two days in mid-ocean, plug into solar-powered buoys, wait 12 hours, and then proceed on their merry way.

Why?

Climate!
Wells Fargo & Co. has declared plans to close another 17 branches  though none in North Carolina  according to its latest disclosure Friday to federal regulator U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

There have been at least 58 Wells Fargo branch closings in North Carolina, including three in Winston-Salem and nine in the Triad, since July 2020.

Overall, Wells Fargo has dropped from more than 6,600 branches in 2009, when it acquired a collapsing Wachovia Corp. and gained an East Coast presence.

The branch count was at 4,525 as of March 31, down from 4,598 on Dec. 31 and from 4,705 on March 31, 2022.

There have been at least 58 Wells Fargo branch closings in North Carolina, including three in Winston-Salem and nine in the Triad, since July 2020.
Q: Decades ago, I was injured at work and joined the ranks of chronic pain sufferers. Fortunately, after a slow start, Workers Compensation covered my medical expenses. Unfortunately, things went from bad to worse in the third quarter of 2022 when I turned 75. Approval to pay for medical expenses went from routine to sporadic, forcing me to make payments out of pocket. I called an administrator in Charlotte and was told to call the office in Richmond. I was on hold for over two hours, and no one picked up. What can be done so all of us get paid?  R.H.

Answer: Agencies will not typically discuss an individuals case with a third party.

That was the case in this instance as well.

Gina Cammarano, of the N.C. Industrial Commission, which administers workers compensation claims, gave SAM general information about how to handle problems with a workers compensation case.

If your reader is represented by an attorney in his/her workers compensation claim, he/she should contact his/her attorney about the issue with delayed medical payments.

If your reader is not represented by an attorney, he/she can contact the Workers Compensation Information Specialists Section at the North Carolina Industrial Commission to obtain information about his/her rights under the North Carolina Workers Compensation Act and the procedural steps he/she can take regarding the issue of delayed medical payments.

The Workers Compensation Information Specialists Section can be reached by phone at 800-688-8349 or 919-716-1700, by email at infospec@ic.nc.gov, and by U.S. mail at Workers Compensation Information Specialists, NC Industrial Commission, 1233 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1233.

Memorial service

The annual Forsyth County Law Enforcement Officers Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Morris Chapel United Methodist Church, 2715 Darrow Road, Walkertown.

The guest speaker this year will be Sean Houle, a retired Kernersville Police Department officer.

There will be a recognition ceremony for each Forsyth County officer who lost their life in the line of duty.

Awards will be presented by the Gold Shield Foundation to each local officer who was critically injured in the line of duty during 2021 and 2022.

Lunch will be served following the service.

Restaurant has reopened

SAM has had inquiries about the status of Showmars, 227 Harvey St., Winston-Salem, in the Hanes Towne Village Shopping Center. Shannon Sadler, a spokesperson for the restaurant, told us that the restaurant has reopened following a fire earlier this year.

Greeting card donations

S.B. let us know that Reconsidered Goods, 4118 Spring Garden St., Greensboro, and Scrap Exchange, 2050 Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, will also take unused greeting cards.
Bolstered by grant funds from the city of Lincoln, Southeast Community College created the Office of Work-Based Learning as a bridge between students and the workforce. We want to help students become upskilled and reskilled so they can earn a job quickly, says Rod Rhodes, the offices administrative director. Stackable credentials, apprenticeships and improved training spaces are the foundation on which SCC is building its bridge.

Most learners entering higher education today dont fit the traditional 18 to 20 age demographic. According to Rhodes, This is not just a trend, but the new normal. Many learners are already in the workforce. They have bills to pay and families to support and they all want the same thing: a pathway to a meaningful job that earns a good wage.

Stackable credentials and micro-credentials are appealing to those looking for a quick boost in their employability and who need to balance school with work and family demands. In stark contrast to traditional higher education learning models, the college is designing programs that will reduce the amount of time a student will be in school to earn a credential that is industry recognized and transferrable to other learning institutions. Programs can be as brief as six weeks to six months.

As its name implies, stackable credentials refer to two or more credentials that can be stacked to incrementally grow a workers skills and earning potential, powering students into the workplace and up the career ladder. For example, a student may complete a certificate as a general computer technician and later pursue an associate degree in computer information technology. Stackable credentials have been hailed by employers and academics alike. Brookings Institute reports they create an immediate resume boost and improve employment opportunities and wages.

Southeast Community College moves students closer to their goals by incorporating Prior Learning Assessment, a tool that translates life experience into credentials. Upon demonstrating mastery, knowledge gained in the military, employer training programs or open-sourced coursework may be turned into college credit.

Flexibility is the beauty of these tools. They can be tailored to meet the needs of both employers and students and earned on a timetable manageable to the student worker. Stackable credentials pack a powerful punch when paired with apprenticeships and internships, two earn-while-you-learn models the Office of Work-Based Learning is dedicated to developing.

Developing opportunities for H3 jobs, which stands for high-skill, high-wage, high-demand jobs, is a focus because they are in high demand. They are information technology, welding, manufacturing and health sciences. Still in the early stages of program design, the college relies heavily on its Workforce Leadership Teams for direction. From agriculture to welding, each of the 60-plus technical programs has a business-led team made up of experts that provide industry outlooks, workforce trends and recommendations to update Southeast Community Colleges training facilities, software and equipment. Rhodes emphasizes that the teams consistently identify qualified employees as their No. 1 need. Southeast Community College is committed to being part of that solution.

For more information about SCC, please visit southeast.edu.

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.
This is simply one mans perspective from the early 21st century (first written in 2010). I had to make a decision about crimes that occurred at locations that are inside the city today, but were outside our corporate limits at the time they occurred. I chose the latter.

Before beginning, though, I have to deal with three crimes that stand apart: the murders of three police officers in Lincoln. Im not quite sure how to place them in a list. They all had huge impacts on the community, and on the police department in particular. Because these are my colleagues, I deal with them separately and in chronological order.

Patrolman Marion Francis Marshall

Shot in the shadow of the new Nebraska State Capital, Gov. Charles Bryan came to his aid and summoned additional help.

Lt. Frank Soukup

Marion Marshall was technically not a Lincoln police officer, so Lt. Soukup was actually the first Lincoln police officer killed on duty. One of his colleagues who was present at the motel and involved in the gunbattle, Paul Jacobsen, went on to enjoy a long career and command rank at LPD, influencing many young charges (like me) and leaving his mark on the culture of the agency.

Lt. Paul Whitehead

In the space of a few months, three LPD officers died in the line of duty. Frank Soukup had been murdered, and George Welter had died in a motorcycle crash. Paul Whitehead's partner, Paul Merritt, went on to command rank, and like Paul Jacobsen left an indelible mark at LPD and the community.
A 59-year-old Lincoln man is dead and his 40-year-old stepson is in jail after a stabbing Sunday in northeast Lincoln, according to police.

Police found Mark Kruger unresponsive with a puncture wound to his chest after they responded to a home near 63rd Street and Baldwin Avenue at about 7 p.m. Sunday on a report of a stabbing, Lincoln Police Chief Teresa Ewins said at a news conference Monday morning.

Officers provided first aid at the scene before rescue crews took Kruger to a local hospital, where he died, Ewins said.

Police arrested his stepson, 40-year-old Joseph Kruger, also of Lincoln, at the scene on suspicion of second-degree murder and use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony.

"Obviously, this is a tragic event for this family, and our hearts go out to them," the police chief said. "I can't imagine what they're feeling right now. The loss of a husband and the arrest of a stepson. Our hearts go out to them."

At Monday's news conference, Ewins largely declined to detail what led up to the stabbing, but said the two had been involved in an argument at a family gathering Sunday in north Lincoln. The nature of the argument is unclear.

Investigators recovered a steak knife thought to have been used in Mark Kruger's killing, Ewins said. Police are still interviewing witnesses, though the police chief said she wasn't sure how many people had attended the gathering.

It's unclear if either Mark or Joseph Kruger lived at the home on Baldwin Avenue. The two didn't live together, Ewins said.

The department asked anyone with information on the alleged murder to call police at 402-441-6000 or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3200 if they wish to remain anonymous.

Police took Joseph Kruger to the Lancaster County jail upon his arrest Sunday.

Judge Thomas Zimmerman ordered the 40-year-old to be held without bond overnight Monday. He will make his initial court appearance Tuesday afternoon.

Mark Kruger is the city's sixth known homicide victim of 2023.

Police described Mark Kruger as Joseph Kruger's stepfather. While Mark Kruger is not Joseph Kruger's biological father, the 59-year-old raised him from the time of his birth and the two considered themselves blood relatives, according to Joseph Kruger's sister.

Remembering Lincoln's homicide victims of 2023 1. Julian A. Martinez 2. Rudy Requejo Jr. 3. Ronald Gonzalez Rivas 4. Christopher Karmazin 5. Damien Brave
DALLAS  The man accused of killing eight people and wounding several others in a mass shooting at a suburban Dallas shopping mall was discharged from the Army in 2008 because of mental health problems and apparently was working as a security guard, according to neighbors and an Army official.

Authorities on Monday were trying to piece together what led to the attack Saturday in Allen, which ended when police shot and killed the suspected gunman, who was identified as Mauricio Garcia, 33, by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Garcia joined the Army in 2008 but was terminated three months later without completing his initial training, said U.S. Army spokeswoman Heather J. Hagan, who added that the Army doesn't disclose the reason for any soldier's discharge.

According to an Army official who spoke on the condition of anonymity, though, Garcia was kicked out of the Army due to mental health problems.

Federal officials are looking into whether Garcia expressed an interest in white supremacist ideology, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press. The official cautioned that the investigation is in its early stages.

Federal agents are reviewing social media accounts that they believe Garcia used, as well as posts that expressed interest in white supremacist and neo-Nazi views, said the official, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

Garcia also had a patch on his chest when police killed him that read "RWDS," an acronym for the phrase "Right Wing Death Squad," which is popular among right-wing extremists and white supremacy groups, the official said.

In addition to reviewing social media posts, federal agents interviewed family members and associates of Garcia to ask about his ideological beliefs, the official said. Investigators are also reviewing financial records, other online posts they believe Garcia made and other electronic media, according to the official.

The attack happened at Allen Premium Outlets, a sprawling outdoor shopping center about 25 miles north of downtown Dallas.

On the Dallas block where Garcia lived at a family home until recently, neighbors said Garcia apparently worked as a security guard. None of the neighbors knew where Garcia worked, and the company that manages the mall where the attack happened didn't immediately reply to a Monday phone message or email seeking further information, including whether Garcia worked there.

Neighbors also said that after the attack, authorities pored over the home where Garcia lived.

A woman who lives next door to the home said she didn't know her neighbors well, but knew them to be "very polite, very nice people." The woman, who would only identify herself as Julie, said Garcia was always friendly, waving and honking his horn.

Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey declined to answer questions Sunday evening, saying of the investigation, "we actually don't have a lot."

A law enforcement official said investigators are searching a Dallas motel where Garcia was staying in the run-up to the attack. The official said police also found weapons at the scene after Garcia was killed, including an AR-15-style rifle and a handgun.

Amid protests Monday at the Texas Capitol for stricter gun control, two Republicans sided with Democrats to advance a bill that would raise the age to buy semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21, though the measure has little or no chance of actually becoming law.

The shooting was the latest attack to contribute to the unprecedented pace of mass killings this year in the U.S. Just over a week before, five people were shot and killed in Cleveland, Texas, after a neighbor asked a man to stop firing his weapon while a baby slept, authorities said.

This year has seen an average of about one mass killing per week, according to a database maintained by the AP and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Information about Garcia emerged as the community mourned the dead and awaited word on the seven people who were wounded.

Medical City Healthcare said Monday it is treating six patients at three of its hospitals: Three were in critical condition, two were in fair condition and one was in good condition at a children's hospital. Police said a seventh wounded person was taken to a different hospital.

Allen, which is home to about 105,000 people, is among the Dallas-Fort Worth area's diverse suburbs. The area saw the largest Asian American growth rate of any major U.S. metro area, according to U.S. Census figures. Those statistics show that Allen's population is about 19% Asian, 10% Black and 11% Hispanic.

Allen also is connected to another of Texas' recent mass shootings. Patrick Crusius lived there in 2019 before he posted a racist screed online that warned of a "Hispanic invasion" and drove to El Paso, where he opened fire at a Walmart, killing 23. Crusius, 24, pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges in February.
OMAHA  Omaha police arrested a woman on suspicion of second-degree murder Sunday in connection with a fatal shooting of a security guard in the Capitol District.

Gom Gout, 23, of Omaha was shot shortly after 1 a.m. while trying to break up a fight outside a bar near 10th Street and Capitol Avenue, his brother Shol Gout said. He was taken to the Nebraska Medical Center, where he died.

Keloni Jones, 24, of Omaha was located a short time later while walking in the downtown area and taken into custody. Jones was taken to Omaha Police Headquarters to be interviewed.

The Douglas County Attorney's Office then determined the charges, the spokesman said. Jones also was arrested for suspicion of using a weapon to commit a felony.

In a GoFundMe post on social media, Shol Gout said his brother was "a kind and loving person to his family, friends, and everyone he interacted with." Nearly $8,200 had been raised as of Tuesday morning.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Omaha Crime Stoppers at 402-444-STOP, at omahacrimestoppers.org or on the P3 Tips mobile app. Callers can remain anonymous and are eligible for a cash reward for information.

50 best crime TV shows of all time Intro #50. Southland #49. Happy Valley #48. Boston Legal #47. Bosch #46. American Crime Story #45. The Americans #44. Banshee #43. Broadchurch #42. Person of Interest #41. Ozark #40. Brooklyn Nine-Nine #39. Love/Hate #38. Harley Quinn #37. The New Batman Adventures #36. Alfred Hitchcock Presents #35. Trailer Park Boys #34. Luther #33. Big Little Lies #32. Boardwalk Empire #31. The Punisher #30. Hannibal #29. Sons of Anarchy #28. Mr. Robot #27. Homicide: Life on the Street #26. Wentworth #25. Endeavour #24. Young Justice #23. Poirot #22. Justified #21. Deadwood #20. The X-Files #19. Mindhunter #18. Daredevil #17. Dexter #16. The Return of Sherlock Holmes #15. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes #14. Line of Duty #13. The Shield #12. Oz #11. The Boys #10. Better Call Saul #9. Twin Peaks #8. Narcos #7. Peaky Blinders #6. Fargo #5. True Detective #4. Sherlock #3. The Sopranos #2. The Wire #1. Breaking Bad 50 best crime TV shows of all time #50. 24 #47. The New Batman Adventures #46. Alfred Hitchcock Presents #45. Bosch: Legacy #44. Southland #43. Harley Quinn #42. Happy Valley #41. Boston Legal #40. Bosch #39. Person of Interest #38. Big Little Lies #37. The Punisher #33. Mr. Inbetween #32. Wentworth #31. Endeavour #30. Trailer Park Boys #29. Poirot #28. Justified #26. Boardwalk Empire #25. The X-Files #24. Mindhunter #22. Mr. Robot #21. Daredevil #20. The Return of Sherlock Holmes #19. Homicide: Life on the Street #18. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes #17. Young Justice #14. Oz #13. The Boys #12. Dexter #10. Narcos #9. Peaky Blinders #8. Fargo #7. Better Call Saul #6. True Detective #5. Batman: The Animated Series #4. Sherlock #3. The Sopranos #1. Breaking Bad
OMAHA  A Nebraska woman was sentenced Friday to decades in prison in the death of a 5-year-old boy.

A Douglas County District Court judge sentenced Antonea Cannon, 21, of Omaha, to 70 to 72 years for intentional child abuse resulting in death. She had pleaded no contest to the charge in February.

Cannon took Jaylen Hearnes to the hospital unresponsive in March 2002 and said he was cold to the touch. But police quickly grew suspicious of the account she offered.

Cannon, who identified herself as the sole caretaker of Jaylen, told police she left him with her 12-year-old sister while she worked and that the boy's biological mother took him out to lunch.

Cannon said she noticed him unresponsive after picking him up and taking him with her to get her two children from day care.

But the 12-year-old told police she was not at home that day, and another sister confirmed the girl's account.

Police say injuries to the child were consistent with severe child abuse, and court documents revealed officers found blood in Cannon's home, along with a "striking instrument" that appeared to be splintered.

Who are they? NE children reported missing as of May 6 These are recent reports of missing children made to local law enforcement. If you think you have seen a missing child, contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
Seven of Nebraskas regional airports will see rebuilt runways, taxiways or hangars with the help of $17.4 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants, the Nebraska Department of Transportation said this week in a press release.

The grants to airports in Ainsworth, Burwell, Norfolk, North Platte, Scottsbluff, Sidney and Wayne are part of the FAAs second round of Airport Improvement Program grants.

Under the program, the FAA typically pays 90% and the local airport 10% of improvement projects.

Scottsbluffs Western Nebraska Regional Airport received the largest single grant: $12.1 million to mill and resurface Runway 12/30, the 8,200-foot runway used for instrument landings, Airport Manager Raul Aguallo told the Scottsbluff Star-Herald.

Aguallo said the work will begin in July and continue for four months. He said the airfield will be closed from Aug. 21-30, temporarily halting the airports daily SkyWest Airlines round-trip flights to Denver.

The next-largest grant, for $2.9 million, was awarded to the North Platte Regional Airport for reconstruction of a taxiway. Karl Stefan Memorial Field will receive $600,000 to install runway lighting, airfield guidance signs and a runway vertical/visual guidance system.

At the four other airports, grants will go toward the construction of new hangars:

Ainsworth Regional  $553,980

Burwell Cram Field  $235,540

Sidney Municipal/Lloyd W. Carr Field  $451,562

Wayne Municipal/Stan Morris Field  $450,000

NDOT assisted the airport authorities in applying for the grants and will help administer the funds as the projects progress, said Ann Richart, director of the departments Aeronautics Division.

Were happy to be able to partner with the FAA Central Region in Kansas City to get this essential grant funding to our airports, Richart said in the press release.

In recent months, several airports have also received funding under a separate program that is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed by Congress in 2021. The law created three new aviation-support programs.

In January, Omahas Eppley Airfield received a $21 million grant for the next phase of construction on the airports terminal entrance drive. Lincoln Airport received $415,000 for improvements to the terminal and its security screening area.

Airports in Kearney, Grand Island and North Platte also recently received grants of about $1 million each for various improvements.

This report includes information from the Scottsbluff Star-Herald.

Top Journal Star photos for May 2023
Editors Note: In Chinese culture, people typically list their family name first, followed by their given name. On second-references to Chinese people quoted in this story, Wisconsin Watch is using their family name.

Day after day over nearly five years in Chishan Prison, Lee Ming-che walked the 5 minutes from his cell to one of several manufacturing spaces on prison grounds.

The prison in Chinas central Hunan Province houses political prisoners like Lee, a renowned human rights activist who met with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during her consequential 2022 visit to Taiwan. Lee, a Taiwanese college administrator, was convicted in China of subverting state power in 2017 and released last year.

In an interview in Mandarin with Wisconsin Watch from his home in Taiwan, Lee said officials forced him and hundreds of other Chishan prisoners to work roughly 13 hours a day, seven days a week with just a few days off around the Chinese New Year. His pay? The equivalent of about 48 cents a day.

I was like a robot, doing work in the daytime and then returning to the cell (at night), Lee recalled.

His tasks included cutting polyester fabric and sewing it together to make work gloves, producing at least 200 pairs a day.

He said he knew the gloves were destined for the United States.

He later learned about the company whose brand was on the gloves, stamped with a thunderbolt and the word Milwaukee. Shown photos of Milwaukee Tool gloves for sale at two Madison, Wis. Home Depot stores, Lee verified four types of gloves he was forced to make  Free-Flex, Demolition, Performance and Winter Performance.

I can recognize the models and the logo of work gloves, Lee told Wisconsin Watch. As long as Ive made them before, I can recognize them.

A Wisconsin Watch investigation found additional evidence that Chishan prisoners were paid pennies to make work gloves bearing the iconic brand of Milwaukee Tool, a company with a nearly 100-year history in Wisconsin.

A supplier for Milwaukee Tool subcontracted work to the prison, two former prisoners said in separate interviews. A self-identified salesperson of the supplier, Shanghai Select Safety Products, said it manufactured the majority of Milwaukee Tools work gloves. And regulatory filings show Shanghai Select was contracted to manufacture Performance Gloves for a subsidiary of Milwaukee Tools parent company.

Milwaukee Tool: No evidence to support forced labor accusation

Wisconsin Watch began its investigation after Chinese exile Shi Minglei, who now lives in Minnesotas Twin Cities, launched a change.org petition in November to pressure Milwaukee Tool to stop sourcing gloves made at the prison. She alleges her husband, imprisoned human rights activist Cheng Yuan, also has been forced to use a sewing machine to produce goods at the prison. Shi cannot verify he is making Milwaukee Tool products, but she heard from two former prisoners of Milwaukee Tools production at the prison.

A Milwaukee Tool spokesperson said the Brookfield-based company has found no evidence to support the claims being made about its link to forced labor.

Milwaukee Tool regularly conducts a complete and thorough review of our global operations and supply chain, Kharli Tyler, vice president of brand marketing, said in an email that did not answer specific questions from Wisconsin Watch.

Thirteen shipments of work gloves from Shanghai arrived at United States ports since the summer of 2019 when Lee said he noticed Chishan prisoners making Milwaukee Tool-branded gloves, according to an analysis of customs shipping data provided to Wisconsin Watch by S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Listed as a consignee for the gloves: Milwaukee Electric Tool Co.

Those records end in 2020, but whether the shipments ended is unclear. Companies can ask federal Customs and Border Protection to shield their names and addresses from published shipping data, said S&P Global spokesperson Katherine Smith.

If Milwaukee Tool was sourcing from a foreign prison, theyre in violation of Section 307, said Charity Ryerson, a human rights lawyer and executive director of Chicago-based Corporate Accountability Lab, referring to the federal law banning imports of goods made with forced labor.

Milwaukee Tools parent company, Hong Kong-based Techtronic Industries Company Limited, has a policy prohibiting the use of modern slavery and human trafficking. The Milwaukee Tool Legal Council in December told the Business and Human Rights Centre that a thorough investigation of these claims was conducted, and we have found no evidence to support the claims being made. The company does not tolerate the use of forced labor.

In February, in a response shared with Wisconsin Watch, DLA Piper, a law firm with offices around the world that represents Milwaukee Tool and Techtronic Industries, said forced labor allegations were investigated, and denied.

Prisoners discuss forced labor

Shi, who is pushing the change.org petition, has had little contact with Cheng since his imprisonment in 2019. She said her husband wrote three letters to his family in 2022 in which he opaquely referenced forced labor.

In a letter to his sister last May, Cheng implicitly described excessive hours of forced labor by citing two lines from a poem by Tao Yuanming, one of Chinas great poets. Translations go like this: I rise early to clear away the weeds, Till, hoe on shoulder, I plod home with the moon.

Shi said she aims to ease the slavery-like conditions endured by Cheng, who was arrested while running a Chinese organization that advocated for victims of discrimination.

Wisconsin Watch interviewed an additional former prisoner who claims Milwaukee Tool is profiting from forced labor at Chishan Prison.

He asked to use the pseudonym Xu Lun to protect his safety.

While incarcerated at Chishan Prison, Xu remembers making all types of work gloves Lee identified and another Milwaukee Tool-branded model: Winter Demolition.

Everyone knows these things will be exported to America, Xu said. We stitched labels onto every single pair (of gloves). Labels do show the address.

The label attached to one pair purchased by Wisconsin Watch reads: ENGINEERED BY MILWAUKEE TOOL. PROFESSIONALLY MADE IN CHINA, and it includes the companys website URL and Brookfield address.

Xu said many prisoners developed eczema in hot and humid conditions at the prison workplace. Lee said he now has allergies which his doctor blames on the clouds of fabric dust he inhaled while working in prison.

Contracting down the supply chain

Lee and Xu independently identified the name of the supplier that outsourced work to Chishan Prison as Shanghai Select Safety Products, which advertises its own line of gloves.

Lee said he heard the name from the prison police and also saw it on purchase orders. Xu recalled hearing the suppliers name from a prisoner who worked in a warehouse stocking gloves.

In August 2015, Shanghai Select Safety Products signed a $1 million contract with Techtronic Trading Limited, a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries, according to a 2018 initial public offering filed with the Chinese National Equities Exchange and Quotations. The contract was later renewed, and the Chinese manufacturer was contracted to make Performance Gloves for Techtronic Trading in 2017, the IPO shows.

Also in June 2015, Milwaukee Tool introduced a new product, Demolition work gloves. The next year, the company launched three more models: Free-Flex, Performance and a fingerless version of Performance made of the same polyester fabric.

For the next two, three, and four years, youll continue to see me up here talking about the new latest greatest gloves from Milwaukee, a Milwaukee Tool product manager announced at a 2016 event.

Milwaukee Tool has continued to expand its product line to add gloves with dipped coating and goatskin leather work gloves.

Salesperson: Were making the majority of Milwaukee-branded work gloves

In February, this reporter sought to purchase Milwaukee Tool-branded gloves on Taobao, Chinas version of Amazon.com. Two third-party vendors told the reporter they sell work gloves that suppliers rejected as defective. Shanghai Select Safety Products was one of such suppliers.

Posing as a middleman for an American buyer, this reporter separately contacted a self-identified Shanghai Select Safety Products salesperson. Were making the majority of Milwaukee-branded work gloves, the salesperson said in a text message.

The salesperson shared a catalog that identified Shanghai Select as a gloves supplier for Milwaukee Tool.

Shi believes Shanghai Select Safety Products outsources to cut labor costs and subcontracts portions of work gloves orders to the Chishan Prison corporation.

Chinas government prison enterprise system requires provincial governments to pay for prison operations. The government-run prison enterprise contracts with private businesses for prisoners to produce goods, generating revenue to run the prison.

Chishan Prison contains around 2,900 prisoners. The same prison corporation runs 11 manufacturing spaces within the compound.

Examining satellite imagery, Lee and Xu each pointed out the buildings on prison grounds where they made gloves.

These long, rectangular workshops cover more than 80,000 square meters. Their metal roofs are brightly colored, often blue, but sometimes red or black, according to the satellite image.

Forced labor a growing concern

Concerns over the use of forced labor in China are rising in the United States. A 2021 law prohibits importation of all goods from Chinas far-western Xinjiang region due to the rampant use of forced labor. Chishan Prison sits outside of that region.

Since the 1990s, CBP has issued 60 active enforcement actions related to goods made by prisoner laborers, with two-thirds against Chinese goods. China in recent years has faced scrutiny related to the use of forced labor of Uyghurs, a largely Muslim ethnic minority group whom Chinese officials have forced into re-education camps  a move the United Nations has said could be considered a crime against humanity.

Ryerson of the Corporate Accountability Lab said the new regulations and scrutiny should prompt American companies to reassess and better monitor their supply chains.

If you are so far removed from the supply chain that you are unknowingly sourcing from a Chinese prison, you are actually not keeping up with the rest of the industry, she said.

Peter Rickman, president of the Milwaukee Area Service and Hospitality Workers Organization, said such exploitative conditions stem from corporate executives who chase profits at the cost of the working class. Milwaukee Tool reported $8.1 billion in sales in 2022, mostly in North America.

Maybe (Milwaukee Tool is) ignorant of it. Maybe they are surprised themselves, Rickman said. But that doesnt lessen their responsibility for ensuring wherever their production facilities are that workers are treated with dignity, respect, and humanity and are paid living wages.

Forced laborers at Chishan Prison get reimbursed monthly depending on the complexity of the task, ranging from 20 to 300 yuan, or $3 to $43, according to Lee and Xu.

In Wisconsin, some prisoners work in state-owned correctional industries and facilities. They get paid 97 cents per hour on average, according to an ACLU analysis. That equates to a monthly wage of $155 under 40-hour work weeks.

Over the past decade, American customers have found notes in the products hidden by inmates who make Christmas cards, paper bags, ornaments or garments in Chinese prison labor facilities. Released prisoners claimed they were forced to produce goods for renowned brands.

Dragged into glove production

In the summer of 2019, Lee said he noticed many inmates pivoting away from other work to sew work gloves for Milwaukee Tool. He said the following year, he became part of the production line of hundreds of prisoners.

Lee said the 90-plus hour weeks they produced Milwaukee Tool gloves violate Chinas laws and regulations, including Chinese Ministry of Justice guidance to limit prison labor to 40 hours per week. The guidance also states prison labor products should be sold only within China.

But Chinese law prohibits work refusal by incarcerated people who have the ability to work. Prisoners can be sent to solitary confinement for refusing work, not working hard enough or intentionally destroying tools of production.

Everything we know about the prison system in China indicates that prisoners do not have any meaningful choice in terms of engaging in labor, said Nicholas Bequelin, former Asian-Pacific Regional Director at Amnesty International and a visiting fellow at Yale Law School.

There just is no evidence that prisoners can refuse to work. And so, to that extent, that would be considered slavery.

Mixed results of self-regulatory tools

Techtronic Industries Company Limited, Milwaukee Tools parent, says it uses compliance tools and third-party auditors to ensure its 2,825 direct suppliers, including 1,165 in Asia, comply with its policy against modern slavery and forced labor.

The supplier relationship will be terminated if major compliance issues are not corrected to meet set standards, the company said in a 2022 Environmental, Social, and Governance report.

But self-regulatory tools used by many multinational companies are flawed and often unable to detect forced labor, research shows.

For a 2021 book, Professor Sarosh Kuruvilla, a labor policies expert at Cornell University, examined more than 40,000 factory audits from 2011 to 2017 spanning 14 industries and 12 countries, including China. He found 45% were based on unreliable or falsified information. Audits in China were unreliable more than half the time.

Li Qiang, the founder of the New York-based nongovernmental organization China Labor Watch, said suppliers falsify information in multiple ways, such as faking data related to workers, products and salaries.

A 2018 study co-published by the University of Sheffield found audit systems tend to focus on the workforce of first-tier suppliers and neglect subcontracted portions, where the risks of forced labor are highest.

The study argued big brands squeeze suppliers by imposing short-term contracts, penalties and fees for late or low-quality orders while demanding razor-thin margins from the bottom of the supply chain.

Pressure to balance their own books and fear of jeopardizing contracts pushes suppliers to deceive auditors.

Li said subcontracting is common in China  especially for suppliers who cheaply fulfill orders from American buyers. Under these circumstances, the suppliers outsource part of the order without necessarily recording it, he said.

When a supplier is placed to produce 10,000 pairs of gloves but subcontracts half, it is too hidden for auditors to find it out during the on-site audits, Li added.

Suffering survivor guilt

Back in Taiwan, Lee continues to speak out about his years in Chishan Prison. He calls forced labor a menace to human rights and global free trade.

I certainly feel that I have the obligation to prove the thing happened there, Lee said.

Shi said she suffers from survivor guilt as she lives relatively comfortably in the United States while pushing to improve conditions for her husband in China.

After Chinese officials arrested Cheng in July 2019 on subversion charges, Shi and her 3-year-old daughter were placed under house arrest for 180 days on suspicion of financing his activities. Shi said five Chinese security police officers interrogated her after she posted the familys struggles on Twitter  threatening to take her daughter away if she continued posting.

That prompted Shi to flee to the Twin Cities, where she plans to keep pressing Milwaukee Tool to stop benefitting from forced labor. In fact, Shi and her attorneys are gearing up for a lawsuit against the company for the use of forced labor.

We hope Milwaukee Tool will acknowledge it, apologize for it, and stop it, Shi said. We wont surrender.

The nonprofit Wisconsin Watch (www.WisconsinWatch.org) collaborates with WPR, PBS Wisconsin, other news media and the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

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The accidental drowning of a Kenosha man Sunday afternoon occurred during a rescue attempt in the Pike River.

The Kenosha County Sheriffs Department released details Monday morning of the emergency call to the river west of Carthage College.

Deputies and Somers Fire & Rescue personnel responded to the 2000 block of Sheridan Road after a report of a possible drowning at about 1:31 p.m.

Initial reports from deputies on the scene were that a man was swimming in the Pike River and began to struggle. At that time, a child who was with the man left to get help.

The struggling swimmers brother and another man jumped into the water to save him.

As the initial struggling swimmer was pulled to shore, the brother went under and did not resurface.

Sheriffs deputies and Somers Fire & Rescue personnel arrived on the scene and immediately entered the water to attempt to locate the brother.

The Kenosha Sheriffs Department Drone Unit also responded to the scene and searched the river using a remotely operated underwater vehicle.

At about 2:49 p.m. the man was found under the water by Somers Rescue personnel unconscious and not breathing.

The man, later identified as Adrian Sanchez-Trujillo, 39, from Kenosha, was taken to Froedtert South Pleasant Prairie Hospital where he was pronounced deceased by the Kenosha County Medical Examiners Office.

Emergency units seen responding to the scene, in addition to Somers Fire & Rescue and the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department, included Racine County Sheriffs Department, Caledonia Fire and Rescue, Paris Fire, the Racine Fire Bells, Racine Special Team 1, and units from Salem Lakes and Scout Leaders Rescue Squad, among others.

The sheriffs department extended its condolences to Sanchez-Trujillos family.

Families that may need assistance in dealing with this tragedy are encouraged to contact the Kenosha County Mental Health Resource Center (available Monday-Friday) at 262-764-8555 or the 24/7 Crisis Line at 262-657-7188, the department said.

Anyone with additional information about the incident is asked to contact the Kenosha County Sheriffs Department at 262-605-5100.
RACINE  John XXIII Educational Center, a ministry of St. Patrick Parish in Racine, has begun a new outreach project.

Thanks to a grant from SC Johnson, a second weekly study center has been established at Our Lady of Grace Academy.

Two center staff members assist on the Thursday afternoon program with academic tutoring immediately after school. This project parallels a Tuesday afternoon program where one center staff member assists.

Student awarded scholarship

Gustavo Vargas, a senior at St. Catherines High School, recently received word that he would be receiving a full academic and housing scholarship at St. Marys University in Winona, Minnesota.

This award comes from the First Generation Initiative of the university which enables first generation college students to be supported financially and academically.

Vargas was eligible based on his involvement in the Countdown to College program, a pre-college high school experience sponsored by St. Marys University in partnership with John XXIII Educational Center.

Sharing career paths

On March 15, 10 SC Johnson employees of Hispanic descent shared their career stories with St. Catherines High School students in a panel format.

Students were able to ask questions about the topic of how students could prepare for careers.

The center facilitated this event along with the Hispanic Community Outreach office of SC Johnson.

St. Catherine High School personnel welcomed the opportunity for area professionals to share their stories with the students.

Kadow moving on

At the end of this academic year, Brother Mike Kadow, center executive director, will be moving on from John XXIII Educational Center.

Kadow will be taking a position at DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, which is a ministry of his religious congregation.

Kadow was a staff member at the beginning of the J23 Center from 2009-15, and has served as executive director since 2019.

I have very much enjoyed my years in Racine, Kadow said. There is much that I will miss about the area, especially the many relationships that I have formed and that have been formed by the John XXIII Educational Centers presence in the community.

A new executive director will be announced later this spring.

End of year celebration

John XXIII Educational Center will welcome all families of the center along with benefactors, volunteers and friends to an end of the year celebration from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 31, at Cristo Rey Hall at St. Patrick Parish.

The event will include a meal, refreshments, student recognition and an opportunity to meet the new executive director.

Gift certificate prizes will also be awarded.

Mission, campaign, support

The mission of John XXIII Educational Center continues to be to support students from the Racine area in grades five to 12 academically, socially and emotionally.

The programming at 1101 Douglas Ave. and via emotional/social skill formation groups and academic tutoring at local schools are the main projects of the center.

Family support programs of local partners such as UW-Extension are strongly supported by the center. English as a Second Language classes continue to be offered via a partnership with local educators.

For more information, go to john23educenter.org or call 262-898-7250.

The annual spring campaign, primarily a mailing to benefactors, has selected the theme of Support John 23 in 23. New donors and donors increasing their previous support will be matched by an anonymous donor offering a $10,000 match.

Center staff and students continue to appreciate the support of its main organizational donors: United Way of Racine County, SC Johnson, Racine Community Foundation, Lasallian Educational Mission Fund and the Erica P. John Family Fund. Individual and other family funds continue to be generous benefactors.
1. Yes. Keep Fort Hood Street in recognition of the citys historic connections to the post.

2. Yes. Businesses should keep their current name if its familiar to their customers.

3. No. It would be confusing, especially to newcomers, to have two post names being used.

4. No. It is disrespectful to the memory of Gen. Cavazos to keep using the name Hood.

5. Unsure. It might make sense in some instances, but it could be confusing as well .

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1. Yes. The state is missing out on millions in revenue that is going to neighboring states.

2. Yes. But only if the revenue is dedicated to education funding or property tax reduction.

3. No. As with the state lottery, casinos would more heavily impact lower-income Texans.

4. No. Texas has resisted the idea for years, and for good reason: its morally irresponsible.

5. Unsure. It definitely has some economic benefits, but it would be controversial.

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Something interesting happened, says Sen. Terrell McKinney, after the public and state lawmakers learned that members of Nebraskas parole board rarely showed up together for parole hearings.

The board members started showing up for more hearings.

This year, the boards five members have appeared together at hearings twice as often as they did in 2021, according to a Flatwater Free Press analysis.

Attendance spiked in spring 2022. That came after a Flatwater Free Press story showing that, in the three previous years, the board had recorded votes from all five members at only 37% of hearings.

Attendance spiked again this year after McKinney introduced a bill to curtail how often a parole board member can miss a vote.

In the two months after that bills introduction, 63% of parole candidates had their cases heard by the full board. The parole board decides whether to allow eligible incarcerated Nebraskans to serve the remainder of their sentences outside prison, and sets parole terms.

Parole officials said theres no connection between increased attendance, the bill and the previous story. They cited COVID-19 and board chair Rosalyn Cottons sick leave as reasons for past spotty attendance.

I actually think that the data set you're looking at is more the anomaly instead of the pattern, said Nicole Miller, the boards legal counsel. Honestly, 2023 is probably more representative.

McKinney, an Omaha Democrat, had a one-word response when shown the improved attendance: Interesting.

Board member attendance does matter, an analysis of the past five years shows.

When all five members were present and voting in those five years, the board granted parole 62% of the time. When three or four members were present, the board granted parole in 55% of cases.

This persistent gap could have kept nearly 200 parole-eligible prisoners behind bars longer between 2018 and 2021, costing the state hundreds of thousands of dollars, the analysis showed.

And that gap persisted into 2023, as the state continues to grapple with prison overcrowding and plans to build a new $350 million prison.

We have to figure out a system to make it work, McKinney said. And it's not helpful that the parole board hasn't been doing the best of their abilities as far as ... their jobs in a sense.

Board members said they try hard to attend hearings and always make the three-member quorum needed for a hearing to proceed.

Cotton said she was on medical leave at various points in 2021 and 2022. She missed the most hearings of any board member during the five-year period.

There is no problem with our hearings.  I don't need to tell the world that I'm out on medical as long as we have a quorum, she said.

Board members also said that their absence from a hearing shouldnt be interpreted as them not doing work.

An example: Last month, Cotton and board member Mark Langan were conducting parole reviews in York, while the rest of the board started hearings in Lincoln, Langan said. Then they rushed to Lincoln to attend the rest of the days hearings.

Langan, a former Omaha police detective, said he was confident in his own attendance, which has long been the best on the board. He missed 12.7% of the hearing days between 2019, when he was appointed, and when the Flatwater Free Press story published March 2022. He has missed only 5.5% of hearing days since March 2022.

He cited the waning of COVID-19 as the reason for the improvement.

In a perfect world, Id like to have five (board members at hearings) just because of those stats that you showed there, said Langan, referring to the fact that the full board paroles at a higher rate. But it's not always possible.

Cotton said when scheduling hearings, she and board vice chair Layne Gissler strive to make sure five members are there. But the hearings are scheduled a year in advance.

Before the article and after the article  that's every day  I plan on going to every hearing I can  said Gissler.

Gissler missed 14.3% of hearing days between 2018 and March 2022. He has missed 9.9% of days since.

Board member Habib Olomi, appointed in 2021, missed 18.2% of hearing days before March 2022. He has missed 14.3% since.

Cotton has missed 22.7% of parole board hearing days since 2018. She said some of these absences were due to her other duties as board chair. Shes the only member whose absence rate has gone up since March 2022, with most of the missed hearings later in the year tied to medical leave and family emergencies, she said. Since she returned from leave, she has missed fewer hearings.

As drafted, McKinneys bill would allow only three absences at hearings in a calendar year. He told the Flatwater Free Press that, after speaking with Judiciary Committee members, he will up the number of allowable absences  maybe to one hearing day per month.

The bill also would raise the parole board quorum to four. It would mandate more training on bias and establish requirements for who can serve on the board.

Cotton said the board will take no formal position on the bill.

At a March hearing, board member Bob Twiss told the Judiciary Committee that McKinneys bill goes way too far.

Twiss attendance improved the most of any parole board member after March 2022. He missed 17.4% hearing days between May 2018 and March 2022, but only 5.5% since.

Sen. Carol Blood, a Democrat from Bellevue, pushed back.

All I'm seeing is an accountability bill. Do you think we go too far when we're asking for better accountability? she asked.

It's going too far when it's only three absences. ... I am all for accountability, Twiss replied.

Blood noted that parole board members are appointed by the governor to full-time jobs. Board members made $86,407 last year. Cotton made $94,642 as chair.

We are showing up, Twiss said. But I also  strongly believe that we are entitled to some vacation along the way, and also the normal type of leave.

McKinney is worried that parole board attendance may slip again in the future if the Legislature doesnt pass his bill.

Are they going to go back to what they were doing prior when they feel like the heat is off of them? he wondered.

Asked if the public can expect to see the boards higher attendance rates continue, Cotton responded: Its our job.

The Flatwater Free Press is Nebraskas first independent, nonprofit newsroom focused on investigations and feature stories that matter.

Top Journal Star photos for May 2023
Area childcare program leaders warn of a looming childcare crisis as COVID-era funding runs dry, predicating staffing shortages and closing facilities.

Monday was A Day Without Childcare Day, meant to raise awareness of the importance of childcare in communities and advocate for more funding.

Although some childcare programs across Wisconsin closed for the day to honor the demonstration, area programs remained open, with representatives instead gathering at Cornerstone Academy, 1230 22nd Ave.

The issue at hand was the cutting of over $300 million from an upcoming state budget meant to go to childcare. Without it, many childcare leaders fear they will have to start closing facilities, cutting staff or increasing tuition.

Problems could start as soon as next month according to Alisha Bouchard, director of Cornerstone Academy. In June, Child Care Counts, the Wisconsin COVID-era program created to allocate childcare funds, will be reducing aid as funds run low.

This came as a one-day shock to us, Bouchard said. It was like, Guess what, next month its cut in half.

The seven area childcare programs that were represented at the event, including Racine and Kenosha facilities, care for about 1,600 infants and children between them.

According to state Rep. Tip McGuire, D-Kenosha, an upcoming state budget included $342 million for Child Care Counts. That funding was cut by state Republicans, McGuire said. Without the funding, he said the states workforce and economy will be negatively impacted.

A lot of families in our communities are able to go to work each day because of facilities like these, McGuire said.

Sherri May, of Kids Castle, said the additional funding had helped childcare facilities keep up staffing despite the growing list of bigger employers moving into the area offering higher pay and benefits. With funding potentially ending, May warned of the consequences for both the childcare field and local communities.

More of us will begin to close, May said. It will be an extreme hardship on the labor market. You cant find childcare alternatives, its hard. Most of us are at full capacity.

Bouchard said the additional money also helped childcare programs get quality candidates and keep them.

Theyre here because the want to be here, this is not a glamorous profession, Bouchard said. Its a calling. Its something that they love to do, and they deserve to get paid a decent wage to be able to do it.

Tanya Wooden, of Heavens Touch Christian Learning Center in Racine, said she was especially worried about lower income families if childcare becomes too expensive.

Its going to affect older siblings. Its going to affect the whole entire family when mom still has to go to work because thats their only income, Wooden said. Its really valuable; I wish people would look at that value. It builds community and equity and justice within our communities.

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greata Neubauer, D-Racine, told the group to encourage their families and their families employers to reach out to their local representatives about the importance of childcare.

McGuire said the main goal for addressing the issue Monday was to get the $340 million back into the budget.

We just want to bring light to the issue and make sure people understand that, if we dont put this money in, providers will have to close down, McGuire said. It will fundamentally alter our economy.
The roar of hundreds of motorcycles filled the air on Sunday afternoon as riders from across the region gathered at St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Kenosha for the annual blessing of the bikes.

The event at the church, 8760 37th Ave., started 33 years ago when a member of St. Pauls approached the late Pastor Marvin Oechler with the idea of doing a bike blessing for motorcyclists before the summer riding season begins.

The blessing means something to people, said St. Pauls pastor Cindy Aasen. (They) might not darken the door for church, but they want to make sure that Gods with them, and thats all right.

The blessing

Motorists filled the St. Pauls Church parking lot for a ceremony which opened with the songn God Bless the USA, followed by a large group blessing.

Receive the blessing. Its one of two today, said Aasen. May the sun rise in front of you, may the rain fall behind you and may the wind follow you. May the angels of your brothers and sisters who have gone before guard travels, for they know the perils of the road ahead.

May the Lord keep you safe through the rough city streets on your way to the land of swirling turns and rolling hills. Let the colors of fall keep you warm. Let the eagle guide you to the mountaintops. Let the moons light guide you through the night.

May your tires not fail, nor your engine grow old. May your (bike) draw life from the streams you pass. Keep your seat soft and your mind sharp. Let the air of spring breathe life into your soul to journey to another adventure beside your brothers and sisters. In the name of the father, and of the son and of the holy spirit.

Following the group blessing, Aasenalong with pastor Charles Chip Lutz of Lord of Life Lutheran Church and pastor Kevin Beebe, of Spirit Alive! Church  blessed small groups of motorcycles.

The riders

The event attracted riders from southeast Wisconsin and Illinois. John Sweeney, a member of the Libertyville, Ill.-based Lakeshore Chapter of Harley Owners Group., said this was not his first rodeo, rather it was his 20th.

I joined the HOG chapter in 2002... and I went to the blessing and thought it was a great concept, Sweeney said. We just keep doing it because ... what a way to start the summer with a little bit of good luck on your shoulders. I dont care what religion you are, Ill take all the luck I can get.

Sweeney, who has been riding motorcycles since he was 16 years old, said the church treats the riders wonderfully.

Ill be coming here until I stop riding, Sweeney said.

Lakeshore HOG Chapter Director Heather Johnston, said seeing the tradition continue for so many years was a wonderful thing.

We get people from all over the place that come every year for this to start the riding season off right with a blessing, Johnston said. We can use as many blessings as we can get and so its just a really awesome thing to have it, to be welcomed and get together.

Johnston, who has been riding for eight years and attending the blessing for almost that long, said the event is also a testament to the community.

I feel so touched by it. I get such a joy out of being blessed and being around all these amazing people, Johnston said. This is something thats really heartwarming and people really look forward to it every year, and the church in particular really welcomes us with open arms.
A motorist shot and killed a St. Croix County sheriff's deputy before fleeing into the woods and shooting himself on Saturday, the Wisconsin Department of Justice said.

The shooting makes 2023 the deadliest year for law enforcement in Wisconsin since 2000.

Deputy Kaitie Leising, 29, had responded to a report of a drunken driver who had crashed into a ditch in the town of Glenwood, about 50 miles northwest of Eau Claire, about 6:15 p.m. Saturday, according to the DOJ's Division of Criminal Investigation.

The driver, Jeremiah D. Johnson, 34, refused Leising's demands to take a field sobriety test for nearly 10 minutes before taking out a handgun and shooting the deputy, the DOJ said.

A vehicle of people who had stopped at the scene to help Johnson before Leising arrived gave her aid. She later died at a hospital.

After an hourlong search for Johnson in the woods, an officer saw Johnson shoot himself, the DOJ said. He died at the scene.

Leising had worked in St. Croix since last year and prior to that served in South Dakota with the Pennington County Sheriff's Office for two years, St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson said.

"We, as a law enforcement family, will do everything possible to continue to provide support and comfort to her family," Knudson said.

"We will miss her infectious smile and personality," Knudson said.

The killing comes exactly one month after the fatal shooting of two police officers in neighboring Barron County. On April 8, Officer Emily Breidenbach, 32, of the Chetek Police Department, and Officer Hunter Scheel, 23, of the Cameron Police Department, pulled over a vehicle driven by Glenn Douglas Perry, 50, of New Auburn, after they received a report of concerning behavior, according to the DCI.

The killings in Barron and St. Croix counties bring the number of law enforcement officers slain on duty this year to four. In February, a man shot and killed Milwaukee police Officer Peter Jerving after a robbery.

"It's devastating to say the least," said Jim Palmer, executive director of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association.

"The fact we're barely five months into the year is beyond alarming," Palmer said. "A tragedy like this deeply impacts every officer that puts on a badge and the loved ones that watch them depart each day."

The recent staffing shortages faced by law enforcement in recent years mean an officer may be more likely to respond to a scene alone, Palmer noted.

"That's especially true in a rural setting where the closest backup could be 20 to 30 minutes away," Palmer said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Close First responders from across the region attend Saturday's funeral in Cameron for slain police officers Emily Breidenbach and Hunter Scheel. Police from Rochester, Minn., pay their respects for slain officers Emily Breidenbach and Hunter Scheel during Saturday's services in Cameron. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. Emily Breidenbach and Hunter Scheel laid to rest Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. First responders from across the region attend Saturday's funeral in Cameron for slain police officers Emily Breidenbach and Hunter Scheel. Police from Rochester, Minn., pay their respects for slain officers Emily Breidenbach and Hunter Scheel during Saturday's services in Cameron. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. The after-service procession came after a 21-gun salute and bagpipe tribute. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon. Hundreds of locals lined the streets in Cameron and Chetek Saturday after about 2,000 people from Wisconsin and Minnesota showed up for the visitation and funerals of Chetek police officer Emily Breidenbach, 32 and Cameron police officer Hunter Scheel, 23 on Saturday afternoon.
Five graphic design students from University of Wisconsin-Stout who took their ideas to the next level were recognized recently with awards from the Advertising Federation of Minnesota.

One of the students brought home gold and has earned an additional award for her advertising campaign.

The graphic design and interactive media majors from professor Nagesh Shindes Advertising Design course developed campaigns for consumer products and entered them in the annual competitions student division. They returned from the awards show at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis with a handful of honors:

Jack Gilbert, senior from Minneapolis, bronze, Color Campaign

Eleni Hein, senior from Reedsville, bronze, Somedays

Tjorven Landwehr, senior from Chippewa Falls, bronze, More with Moissanite

Kayla Purney, senior from Galesville, silver, Define Your Good

Isabel Roberts, senior from Shakopee, Minn., gold, Workday? Walkday.

Their creativity and innovative thinking were fully displayed at this event, and their success is a testament to their skills as designers, Shinde said. Their ability to connect with clients and create stunning visually and compelling campaigns reflects the quality of education and training they have received at UW-Stout.

UW-Stouts School of Art and Design, with six Bachelor of Fine Arts and two Bachelor of Science programs, is the largest in the Upper Midwest with more than 1,200 students.

In addition to her gold award, Roberts campaign was judged Best in Show among student entries in all categories. Her work advanced to the District 8 American Advertising Awards in Chicago and earned a silver award, and it is entered in the national student competition in June.

Winning these awards means a lot to me, Roberts said. Ive always been one to push myself above and beyond whats expected of me. I have really high expectations of myself. So to me, these awards are a sign that all of the hard work Ive put in over the last four years has been worth it.

Roberts created an ad campaign for the compact treadmill WalkingPad. It can be folded and stored out of sight when not in use  perfect for remote workers who want some exercise at a stand-up desk.

The foldable treadmill hasnt been heavily promoted. Roberts saw a culturally relevant product in need of more exposure.

One of the goals of my campaign was to simply increase awareness that this product does exist. The phrase, Workday? Walkday is used throughout the campaign as the key message, which is meant to signal that any workday can be turned into a walkday with WalkingPad, Roberts said.

For her campaign, Roberts created a 30-second video and concept print, indoor, outdoor, social media and artificial reality ads, along with a minicampaign. Finding suitable imagery for the campaign was one of the biggest hurdles I faced. Theres not a whole lot of cutting edge design happening in the treadmill advertising industry.

Roberts also said a challenge was shifting out of that traditional graphic designer mindset of wanting to focus on visuals, because in advertising its all about the ideas.

Once I was able to make that shift, the ideas really started flowing and I was able to come up with some pretty unique concepts that I think helped set my project apart from the competition.

Judges, who are professionals in the industry, said the work was so well designed and fully formed that we felt it could have run, as is. It showed a level of maturity that is rare; that it passed the test of being student work that you could imagine an agency producing; and that the entire presentation (is) one that could be given to a client in the professional world.

Roberts estimates she worked 250 to 300 hours on the semester-long project. She credits feedback and encouragement from members of the student chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts and from Shinde. She has been AIGA chapter president for the past two years.

Shinde congratulated the students on their well-deserved awards. He said its important for them to push creative boundaries as professionals. The have shown that they have the potential to make a significant impact in the industry, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for them.

A UW-Stout student, Daniel Nesja, won the student Best in Show in 2021.

Along with the student competition, professionals from the region received awards. The event, called the Show, is juried by accomplished creative directors, writers and designers from across the country.
Jackson Yangs education at University of Wisconsin-Stout has given him confidence in himself and his artwork, but his journey was deeper than his degrees.

While earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design and interactive media, he struggled with the concepts and there were times when he wanted to break down and drop out.

My family, friends and girlfriend, Amy, helped me through some rough times, said Yang, of Wausau. They had my back. And Amy is constantly here for me. Her love and compassion keep me going. She reminds me, Dont compare yourself to other people. Just be better than yourself.

Yang earned his undergraduate degree from UW-Stout in 2019, but he felt he hadnt reached his full potential. He graduated with his Master of Fine Arts in design from UW-Stout on Saturday, May 6.

Im proud of how my art and design improved and seeing where I am now, he said. For a long time, I was selling myself short. My family and Amy helped me to keep going. You need that support system. I want to make them proud and keep pushing myself. I want to help other students know that tomorrow youll be better than you are today.

Yangs education also led him on a spiritual journey of rediscovering his Hmong culture through the arts.

Finding a gateway back into his culture

Yang struggled to embrace his culture for much of his life, until the second year of his undergrad.

I grew up rejecting that part of my identity, and Stout helped me find love for my community again and to dive into and re-embrace my culture, he said.

During his undergrad, Yang joined Hmong Stout Student Organization, and his cousin Kalvin, a student team member in the Multicultural Student Services office, helped him learn about traditional Hmong arts.

It was the art and wanting to make my mom proud that was my gateway back into the Hmong culture. I want to pay respect to my culture, Yang said.

And for students who want to re-embrace their culture, he thinks: You have to find something that you can connect with. It could be something simple or big. It all comes down to who you are as a person.

Transforming tradition into modern-day storytelling

As a graphic designer and illustrator, Yangs dream is to work with the Hmong community, teaching the next generation about the traditional arts through design, childrens book illustrations or comics.

Kalvin, who had pointed Yang in the creative direction for his undergrad senior show, was also instrumental in helping Yang establish the theme for his masters thesis: A Thread Through History: How Interlinking Contemporary Art with Paj Ntaub Can Connect Generations.

His graduate research is dedicated to Hmong culture, bringing elements of traditional story cloths and flower cloths  Paj Ntaub  and their embroidered motifs and aesthetics into contemporary digital storytelling.

Jackson explored these themes through the lens of a childrens book for kids who find themselves navigating between two cultural identities, said Erik Evensen, MFA in design program director and Yangs thesis adviser. Working with Jackson has been nothing short of delightful. He is incredibly thoughtful and motivated, and his work is well-crafted and quite beautiful.

While sharing the history of Paj Ntaub, Yang also illustrates the story of To Broken Souls, using the story cloth style, telling the story of Ben, a young Hmong man, and a leaf frond spirit and the connections they make.

Yangs mother played a role in his educational journey as well. A large portion of why I wanted to reconnect with my culture was for my mother. I wanted to make her proud and show her just how much she means to me, which was one of the reasons why I pursued the MFA and focused on the Hmong arts.

She loved making flower cloths, so her eyes would always light up when I showed any kind of interest in it, especially for my education, Yang said.

Yang learned the story cloths and Paj Ntaub were art forms pioneered by women. He studied their selection of colors used in the textiles, the spacing of images and texture. The embroidery creates a natural texture, even in the placement of the direction of the stitches, he said. I admire the intricate designs of the folding and sewing techniques they use. Its very difficult.

Yang always thought story cloths were an older art form, but in learning more about them, he found that they are relatively new in terms of Hmong history, dating back only to the 1970s. As a way to remember their lives in Laos and share their memories with future generations, women began to sew their family stories while refugees after the Vietnam War.

Paj Ntaub are a more ancient art form, with several legends of their own. One legend, Yang said, tells of the books of knowledge said to contain the entire Hmong written language. Under the oppression of Chinese rule, it was made illegal to speak or write in the Hmong language and the books were destroyed. Hmong women used their skills in needlework to sew their language into their clothing, secretly preserving it, developing Paj Ntaub.

Whether the legend is true or not is debated  but it speaks to the importance of the art form, Yang said. Paj Ntaub became a way for women to communicate and preserve their language and culture.

Yang is thankful for the support he received during his time at UW-Stout, naming mentors Tanya Gunkel, Educational Materials Center librarian; Aubrey Huff, former librarian; as well as his thesis committee members: Evensen; associate professor Mitchell Ogden, English, philosophy and communication; and assistant professor Mary Climes, of comics.

Yangs mother died a little over a year ago from COVID-19.

I had originally wanted to include my mother in some capacity for my thesis. She unfortunately will never be able to see what I had planned for the future after graduation, he said. My brother, sister-in-law and sister have supported me in my mothers place.

New Library Art Lab

Yangs thesis show was recently displayed in the new Library Art Lab, on the first floor of the University Library.

The exhibit space was created in collaboration with faculty and staff of the library and the School of Art and Design, led by Sue Lindahl, assistant director of Cataloging and Access Services; professor Charlie Lume; and Renee Carrell, Furlong Gallery assistant director.

There was a need on campus for more art exhibit space for students, and since the library has such a solid history of supporting art and design, the partnership was a logical fit, Gunkel said. Art is a universal language. The library is a place that breaks down barriers and is accessible no matter someones background.

Yang is a graduate assistant at the library and also serves on the Library Public Relations Committee, chaired by Gunkel. He creates book displays and posters, some of which have been accepted into the University Archives, an exciting accomplishment for any student, Gunkel said.

Tanya and Aubrey played a huge role in allowing me to push the boundaries of what I was able to design for my graduate assistant position, Yang said.

A large portion of Yangs portfolio that he shows to potential employers comes directly from projects he created in his role as a library graduate assistant.

Jackson has been an important part of our team and has built a sense of belonging through his artwork, she added. Hes helping other students see themselves in the displays and posters he creates. This can make a difference in a persons day. He probably never stops to think about it, but hes helping build student retention.

Hes original, innovative, has a strong work ethic, is talented and creative. I dont know who would be better in a new design role than Jackson, Gunkel said.
Rural Electric Supply Cooperative, a member-owned, not-for-profit electrical wholesaler broke ground May 3 on its new warehouse and offices in the town of Stanley.

Situated on 15 acres, the 40,000-square-foot location reflects the co-op's commitment to providing electric utility members and customers with service and quick response to weather-related and storm damage needs. The large plot also gives the cooperative the ability to expand its operations as needed.

Were delighted to begin construction on our eighth warehouse site, said president and CEO Matt Brandrup. Ensuring reliable inventory and quick service to our members and customers is a pillar of our cooperative, and our Stanley site provides us with a very central location to better serve the needs of our electric cooperative members and utility customers in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.

Once operational, the facility will employ three warehouse/delivery professionals, with an additional two or three positions added in future years. RESCO anticipates construction of the facility will be completed in early 2024.

The amount of square footage  both indoor and outdoor  at the site will permit us to further expand our growing product inventory levels, enabling us to deliver the materials, supplies and equipment that our members and customers need, when they need them, Brandrup said.

Other facility features include individual offices for future team members and a large training room that will double as space for co-op member functions, training and events.

Clark Electric Cooperative in Greenwood will provide electrical utility service to the site.

RESCO is proud to now be a member of Clark Electric, Brandrup said.

Rural Electric Supply Cooperative is a member-owned wholesaling business. Members and customers are rural electric cooperatives, public power districts, municipal electric utilities and investor-owned utilities in the Upper Midwest, extending from Michigan to Montana.

The co-op operates seven warehouses with more than 140,000 square feet of inventory storage space and can ship products 24/7, allowing it to promptly respond to emergencies.
Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas E. Campbell has had a lengthy Army career  32 years  and since he retired from active service in November 2022 he hasnt stopped finding a way to serve.

Now hes trying to share his story of survival from the brink of suicide in hopes to encourage others to know its okay to seek help and be helped. That suicide isnt the answer and that seeking help, facing your demons, and taking life one step at a time can help you survive.

Campbells biography is a long list of demonstrating what it means to be a soldier who leads from the front. A native of Center, Texas, he joined in 1989 and never looked back.

Through his career, Campbell has held positions of responsibility and leadership at many levels. Hes been a driver/training noncommissioned officer, a machine gunner, rifleman, sniper, team leader, squad leader, drill sergeant, platoon and operations sergeant, first sergeant, sergeant major, training sergeant major and command sergeant major.

Campbell has served and led at the squad, company, battalion, regiment, and command level at both stateside and overseas locations. And Campbells awards and decorations are numerous. According to his biography they include three Bronze Star awards, six Meritorious Service Medals; the Army Commendation Medal for Valor; five Army Commendation Medals; six Army Achievement Medals, three awards of the Valorous Unit Award, the Department of State Meritorious Honor Award, eight Army Good Conduct Medals; the National Defense Medal with Bronze Star, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; the NCO Development Ribbon (with numeral 5), the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon (with numeral 4), the NATO Medal; the Multi-National Force and Observer Medal, the Drill Sergeant Badge, the Combat Infantry Badge, the Expert Infantry Badge; the Pathfinder Badge, the Senior Parachutist Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, and the Driver Badge. He was also inducted into the Orders of St. Maurice and St. George, and he was inducted into the Drill Sergeant Hall of Fame.

If someone outside the Army were looking at his experience and his biography, they might think he has done it all and would never have any problems. But as he explained to the Fort McCoy workforce in several special sessions, his trauma from personal loss and injury took its toll on his life during his Army career almost to the point that it could have cost him his career  and his life.

Sharing his story

Campbell spoke to Fort McCoy personnel March 2, 3 and 4. His presentation about what he has experienced is probably not too unlike many he had addressed in his audience.

Since 2001, many service members like Campbell have experienced many deployments, high operations tempo, and theres also the possibility theyve lost someone important in their life along the way  also like Campbell.

Campbell talked about being a sniper in Operation Iraqi Freedom and losing his spotter and friend, Sgt. Ryan Baum. Baum died in combat action in Iraq on May 18, 2007.

He was killed on a patrol he wasnt supposed to be on, Campbell said. He talked me into letting him go on the patrol.  He was supposed to go on leave that night. And the reason he was supposed to go on leave was because his first child was going to be born.

Campbell talked about survivor guilt and how it haunted him. He also talked about coming home from a deployment and not being greeted with a loving embrace.

Soldiers and their wives and their kids are coming out to hugs and kisses and all that good stuff, Campbell said. And Im looking around trying to find my wife and kids and theres nobody there. I found my duffel bags. I find somebody to give me a ride home. I get to the house, and I find out that Im getting a divorce, and Ive got two weeks to be in Texas.

Campbell was going to Texas for training. He went to Fort Bliss for the Sergeant Major Academy. He brought a camper, got set up and commenced to spiraling downward with undiagnosed depression and head trauma he had suffered on the deployment he had just returned from, he said.

Nobodys in charge of me, Campbell said. Im having a strange relationship with my kids.  I (also) have prided myself  I had a perfect credit score. I prided myself in that I had never paid a late bill in my life. Now my credit score was 300. I couldnt finance a pencil if I wanted to.

The dream house that I bought Alaska that I planned on retiring in and dying in  I had to give away and take it in the nose, Campbell said. And I was having these freaking headaches when I would be sitting watching TV. I (would) get this freaking headache that hurt so bad. I couldnt move. I couldnt move my eyeballs, and I started self medicating. I thought Jim Beam was a pretty good doctor. He sucks.

I would find out that nothing good comes out of a bottle, Campbell said. So Im self medicating on top of everything else. And those saying that an idle mind is the devils playground. My God, it is. And then I start thinking about the decisions that I made. I started thinking about the survival guilt. I started thinking about my 20-year marriage that just went down the drink and the relationship that I wish I had with my kids and the fact that I dont have any. And then I started drinking more because I started thinking about that. I start getting depressed, and I thought Jim Beam was a pretty good psychologist.

Campbell said it got so bad he would just drink himself to sleep.

Ive burned a lot of bridges during this time because I also turned very angry, he said. I hated everybody. If you meet anybody that graduated Class 61 from Sergeant Major Academy and asked if they know Tom Campbell, theyll say, Oh, yeah, I know that idiot.

In reflection, Campbell said the situation was pretty dire.

I was suicidal before I knew I was suicidal, he said. And heres what I mean by that. I didnt think I was suicidal, but I didnt care if I lived or died.

Continuous reckless abandon

If youve ever been in El Paso, you know in the afternoons Interstate 10 turns into Parking Lot 10, Campbell said. And I went through cars at 100-plus miles an hour on my motorcycle.

So I didnt care if I lived or died, he said. I like rock climbing. Id go to the Waco tanks, and I would climb just to get away from the world. And I would climb 100 plus feet up in the air with no anchor, no rope. I didnt care if I fell. I didnt care if I died or not. I didnt care about my health and safety, and nor did I care about yours.

I would hear stories of me riding wheelies out of the trailer park at three oclock in the morning, he said, and I never had any recollection that I even cranked up the motorcycle that night. I just turned into a very bitter, bitter person.

The plan to end it all

I thought I was doing a selfless act by taking myself out of the equation, Campbell said. My kids are gonna be better off. My kids will be taken care of. Everybody around me will be better off if I remove myself out of the equation. Now, I dont want to just put a pistol in my mouth for the trigger for two reasons. One, I didnt want to be a statistic, and I didnt want to jeopardize my kids getting a benefit. So I came up with the idea that I would stage an accident  that way it would just be a motorcycle (accident).

Campbell found a place in the mountains he thought would be the perfect place to have his accident.

So I recon El Paso County to try to find the perfect place to have an accident between East and West El Paso, Campbell said. Transplant Road goes up in the mountains back down the mountains and a connection to come down on the east side. Over on the left side, coming down the mountain makes a really sharp curve on the left and right there in that bend there are some picnic tables with some rock balls on the table with the sun shade over them. When youre coming down, youre looking right up on those walls. If you dont turn, youre gonna get that, so that was the place that I was gonna have my accident.

So then he said he had to get his affairs in order to make sure his children got his benefits. He got his will together, and he got everything ready.

I rehearsed the plan a tremendous amount of times, Campbell said. I drove up to the top, and I would race that motorcycle down that mountain. I would slow down right before I hit that curve. I rehearsed that so many times, I cant even count  probably about three or four times a day.

The day came where Campbell said he was going to end his life with the accident hed been rehearsing day after day after day on a mountain road outside El Paso, Texas. He didnt think he had anything else to live for. But somewhere, for some reason, someone else thought differently.

As Campbell made his fateful ride down the mountain road toward that curve, he noted, somebody parked their car in front of that wall.

And so because the car was there, as he came screaming down the hill he had to stop himself and change his plan.

Somehow I got that motorcycle under control and went around that curve, Campbell said. I went back up the hill, pulled off the side of the road, and waited for that car to leave.

And then his phone began to ring in his pocket, he said. He didnt answer it, and he lets it go to voicemail. And then it rings again. And he lets it go again. Hes not going to change his plan. Hes done. Hes just waiting for that car to move, and then its 100 miles per hour to a rock wall.

It rings again, he said. And again  until he finally answers it.

And the voice on the other end was a little girl that I met at the VFW, Campbell said. I met her through her dad who was a retired first sergeant in Vietnam. He was pissed off and hated everybody. We had something. We hated everybody together. And she, but she, his daughter, Theresa, she kept talking to me. She could not believe that I was really as angry as a person as I made out to be. And she kept talking to me, and she had this weird feeling that she just needed to call to check on me.

She saved him. She didnt know it at the time, but she saved him, Campbell said. Now years later they are husband and wife.

As Campbell completed his talk with the workforce, he also shared some other stories about helping and looking out for co-workers, troops, and friends and family.

He also encouraged everyone to seek help when needed and not see it as a stigma. And if anything, his story is more than enough to relay that importance.

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 and press 1 for the Military Crisis Line. Also learn more about the Army Suicide Prevention Program by visiting www.armyresilience.army.mil/suicide-prevention/pages/about.html.
The annual Vernon County Police Memorial Service will be held in front of the sheriffs office, 1320 Bad Axe Court, Viroqua, Tuesday, May 16, at 2 p.m.

According to a press release from the Vernon Sheriffs Office, this is an opportunity for law enforcement to remind the public of the sacrifices made daily by officers in protecting the lives and property of our citizens. Each year about 55,054 law enforcement officers are injured in the line of duty, and in 2022, 245 officers were killed in the line of duty. So far in 2023, 36 officers have been killed in the line of duty  four being from Wisconsin.

Sheriff Roy Torgerson would like to remind everyone that throughout the nation National Police Week will be observed May 14-20, with National Peace Officers Day observed on Monday, May 15, in Washington D.C. The Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony will be held at the Capitol in Madison on May 19.

Everyone is welcome to attend the local memorial service. In the event of rain, the service will be moved inside the sheriffs office.
People transitioning out of poverty and homelessness can get help from theExchange as they seek to set up a house or apartment to create a stable, nurturing environment for their families. The organization accepts donated household goods and gently used furniture from the community and then partners with social service and community advocates who bring clients in to shop for essential needs free of charge.

While theExchange focuses on repurposing donated goods, it often doesnt receive a sufficient supply of some key items  specifically, simple metal bed frames and small kitchen appliances.

PM Sleep Center is providing the bed frames at cost, but theExchange still needs help to address the full need. So organizers are inviting the community to help through financial donations on the La Crosse Community Foundations giving catalog at lacrossegivingcatalog.com.

Through purchasing and distributing these items to a greater number of clients, we can help more families get a good nights sleep and prepare a healthy meal, said Sheila Riley, a co-founder and volunteer at theExchange.

How did you and your fellow co-founders come up with the idea of theExchange?

TheExchange is the result of our communitys generous response to the challenges of homelessness. It began in a garage as a place to store donated furniture until it could be routed to neighbors in need. When it became clear through conversations with area social workers that there was no single, organized source of home goods in La Crosse, we made a leap of faith that there was sufficient abundance in our community to create one. With fellow co-founders Mary Mueller, Cindy Sahlstrom, Joan Waniger and a growing number of dedicated volunteers, we developed theExchange from this earliest seed of a program into a community resource serving over 500 households annually. The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration provided us with early encouragement and tangible support. Their commitment, along with many community groups and institutional collaborations, keep us going today.

What is the most unusual but useful gift/donation ever given to theExchange?

Much of what we receive is very utilitarian, and there isnt spare room in our building to house exotic home goods. Lamps, however, are practical and come in a multitude of styles and sizes from different eras. One of the program favorites was a large 25-pound lamp with a big stone elephant base. We kept it at theExchange for a couple of years and displayed it near the entrance for clients and their advocates. It was an attention grabber and conversation starter, perfect for easing any anxiety. It became a bit of a mascot for the program. I dont know when the elephant lamp departed for its new home, but I hope one of our neighbors is enjoying it as much as we did.

Who is one person, alive or dead, you would like to work at your organization and why?

I have already roped many family members and friends into volunteering at theExchange, so I need to think more broadly. I believe that theExchange is an easily replicated program and that many communities in Wisconsin and the mid-west are well-suited to start their own community furniture bank. I would love to engage someone who could draw wide attention to the impactful role furniture banks can play in addressing housing insecurity and reducing community waste. Matthew Desmond is a sociologist and author of the highly-acclaimed book Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City, a study of eight Milwaukee families struggling with poverty and stable housing. If Matthew were to volunteer in the warehouse organizing and sorting donations or out in the community with our transport team, he could attest to a much larger audience the value and possibility of more communities instituting a similar model.
We do know that this incident was contained to the apartment and the likely result of an argument. There is not a public safety threat regarding this incident, police stated.
Des Moines Register. May 5, 2023.

Editorial: Iowa Republicans stick their fingers in their ears on water quality

This plan makes about as much sense as an emergency room trying to save a buck by turning off the machines that monitor patients vital signs.

Republican legislators in Iowa are used to ignoring warnings that their support for schools, mental health services and other initiatives is many millions of dollars short of whats needed to avoid calamity.

So this year theyve come up with an innovative state budget twist: Keep the calamity, but this time do it by withholding just half a million dollars. Thats 1/17,032nd of the overall spending for 2023-24.

The $500,000 in question, researchers say, would keep in operation a network of dozens of sensors that monitor the presence of pollutants in Iowa waterways. If the data from the sensors goes away, judging the effectiveness of water-quality initiatives will become much more difficult.

This plan makes about as much sense as an emergency room trying to save a buck by turning off the machines that monitor patients vital signs.

Water quality spending is worth little without monitoring

A quick bit of context: The Nutrient Research Center at Iowa State University gets money from fees charged to fertilizer and pesticide dealers and from fines assessed by environmental regulators, along with a few other sources. The center helps support the University of Iowas sensor network.

The Republicans budget takes as much as one-third of the money from fees for the coming fiscal year and shifts it to a different pot for water quality initiatives.

An extra few hundred thousand dollars to spend on a handful of projects isnt going to turn the tide in Iowas battle for clean water for drinking and recreation. The scope of Iowas problems is so great that, last year, this editorial board urged lawmakers to spend every dime they could on curbing pollution from agricultural runoff and other sources and trying to reverse the damage thats already been done. A year and a half later, the Legislature has managed to find nearly $400 million annually in the couch cushions  and earmarked the entirety of it for private schools.

Taking away money that could jeopardize the sensor network could make a huge difference in the wrong direction. Its not just that wed be blind to the real-time effects, good and bad, of various agriculture practices. ISU and UI officials say the sensors help bring in tens of millions of dollars of outside funding for various projects. A 2022 Nutrient Research Center report says funding has often functioned as seed money, allowing researchers to gain broader support. A conservative estimate is at least $62.6 million for water quality research in the state of Iowa.

Larry Weber is a UI professor and the director of the IIHRHydroscience and Engineering, which operates the water quality monitoring network. He said in an interview Thursday that he is working with Iowa State and other agencies on alternative funding sources, including grants or donations, to keep the network. He said that takes roughly $375,000 a year, with the remaining allocation from ISU in past years going toward research projects.

If no solution emerges, work on decommissioning the sensor network would have to begin around June 1, Weber said.

Ignoring problems wont make them go away

No Iowa farmers set out to make it unsafe for their neighbors to swim, or to force cities to spend more to provide clean water, or to diminish their own land through erosion. If keeping those things from happening was easy, we wouldnt need a Nutrient Research Center.

But it isnt easy, and a lack of intent doesnt change that Iowa is not close to meeting even the modest goals of its 2013 Nutrient Reduction Strategy. The best thing legislators who are justifiably proud of farmers overall contributions can do is collaborate with water researchers on more effective policy.

The worst thing they can do is try to suppress the most outspoken voices on water quality. Unfortunately, that seems to be exactly what theyre doing, and the sensor move is just one piece of evidence. Chris Jones, a UI engineer who is retiring this spring, wrote a sometimes-acerbic blog on the university website for years that bluntly documented deteriorating water quality. He told Marion County writer Robert Leonard in an interview that two state senators pressured the university to shut down the blog. Sen. Dan Zumbach, a Republican from Ryan, flatly denied the accusation, telling Iowa Capital Dispatch that no threat to funding was ever made because of the content of a blog. Sen. Tom Shipley, a Republican from Nodaway, did not immediately reply to an emailed question about the accusation.

The agriculture and natural resources budget now goes to Gov. Kim Reynolds, who tried to brand herself as the water-quality governor in 2018. If she was serious, shell reverse the funding shift. There is no doubt the state can afford to spend money to keep the sensors operating as it has until now. In fact, it cant afford not to.

END
Another massacre in America.

It feels like we are living in a nightmareand we should refuse to become numb to it. Instead, we should use our anger and sorrow and demand that our leaders do the things that most Americans support to stop the carnage.

In 1955, Emmett Tillan African American teenwas kidnapped and brutally murdered by White racists.

His mother, Mamie, insisted on an open casket funeral, forcing the world to see the consequences of racism in America.

I have no idea whether being confronted with the very graphic images of mass shootings in America will rouse the kind of reaction that might lead to meaningful change in the same way that Tills helped further the Civil Rights Movement.

But I believe we owe it to our children to try.

(For more on those graphic images, you can click here to see them on the Connors Forum newsletter.)

It is not radical to say that, nationwide, we should:

Ban assault rifles and high-capacity magazines

Enact a 30-day waiting period for all gun sales

Enact red flag laws

Enact better and uniform background checks

Raise the legal age at which people can purchase firearms

Improve our mental health system

I know this is not radical because a majority of Americans support everything on that list. You can read the Gallup surveys yourself.

There is consensus in America on what needs to be done. The problem is not with the citizens, but our leaders.

There is no excuse to wait any longer. Contact your elected representatives and demand a better world for our children.

The best research suggests we can make a serious dent in this problem if our leaders would only implement the reasonable preferences of a majority of Americans.

This week's guest is Dr. Garen Wintemute, director of the Violence Prevention Research Program at the University of California-Davis. Wintemute offers his thoughts on how to reduce gun violence.

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:
In the 1990s, residents of Mexico City noticed their dogs acting strangely  some didnt recognize their owners, and the animals sleep patterns changed.

At the time, the city of more than 15 million people was known as the most polluted in the world, with a thick, constant haze of fossil fuel pollution trapped by thermal inversions.

In 2002, toxicologist and neuropathologist Lilian Calderon-Garciduenas, who is affiliated with both Universidad del Valle de Mexico in Mexico City and the University of Montana, examined brain tissue from 40 dogs that lived in the city and 40 others from a nearby rural area with cleaner air. She discovered the brains of the city dogs showed signs of neurodegeneration while the rural dogs had far healthier brains.

Calderon-Garciduenas went on to study the brains of 203 human residents of Mexico City, only one of which did not show signs of neurodegeneration. That led to the conclusion that chronic exposure to air pollution can negatively affect peoples olfactory systems at a young age and may make them more susceptible to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers and Parkinsons.

The pollutant that plays the big role is particulate matter, Calderon-Garciduenas said. Not the big ones, but the tiny ones that can cross barriers. We can detect nanoparticles inside neurons, inside glial cells, inside epithelial cells. We also see things that shouldnt be there at all  titanium, iron and copper.

Calderon-Garciduenas' work is feeding a burgeoning body of evidence that shows breathing polluted air not only causes heart and lung damage but also neurodegeneration and mental health problems.

Its well established that air pollution takes a serious toll on the human body, affecting almost every organ. Asthma, cardiovascular disease, cancer, premature death and stroke are among a long list of problems that can be caused by exposure to air pollution, which, according to the World Health Organization, sits atop the list of health threats globally, causing 7 million deaths a year. Children and infants are especially susceptible.

Some psychotherapists report seeing patients with symptoms stemming from air pollution. Not only does the pollution appear to cause symptoms or make them worse, it also takes away forms of relief.

If we exercise and spend time in nature, we become extra resilient, said Kristen Greenwald, an environmental social worker and adjunct professor at the University of Denver. A lot of folks do that outside. Thats their coping mechanism; its soothing to the nervous system.

On polluted days a lot of her clients cant go outside without feeling they are making themselves more sick or distressed.

Megan Herting, who researches air pollutions impact on the brain at the University of Southern California, said environmental factors should be incorporated in doctors assessments these days, especially in places like Southern California and Colorados Front Range, where high levels of air pollution are a chronic problem.

When I go into a medical clinic, they rarely ask me where I live and what is my home environment like, she said. Where are we living, what we are exposed to, is important in thinking about prevention and treatment.

In the last two decades, with new technologies, research on air pollution and its impact on the human nervous system has grown by leaps and bounds.

Research shows tiny particles bypass the bodys filtering systems as they are breathed in through the nose and mouth and travel directly into the brain. Fine and ultrafine particles, which come from diesel exhaust, soot, dust and wildfire smoke, among other sources, often contain metals that hitchhike a ride, worsening their impact.

A changing climate is likely to exacerbate the effects of air pollution on the brain and mental health. Warmer temperatures react with tailpipe emissions from cars to create more ozone than is generated when its cooler. More and larger forest fires are expected to mean more days of smoky skies.

Ozone has been linked to neurodegeneration, decline in cerebral plasticity, the death of neurons, and learning and memory impairment.

Air pollution also causes damage from chronic inflammation. As air pollution particles enter the brain, they are mistaken for germs and attacked by microglia, a component of the brains immune system, and they stay activated.

Your body doesnt like to be exposed to air pollution and it produces an inflammatory response, Patrick Ryan, a researcher at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital, said in an email. Your brain doesnt like it either. Theres more than 10 years of toxicological science and epidemiologic studies that show air pollution causes neuro-inflammation.

Damage to the brain is especially pernicious because it is the master control panel for the body, and pollution damage can cause a range of neuropsychiatric disorders. A primary focus of research these days is how pollution-caused damage affects areas of the brain that regulate emotions. The amygdala, for example, governs the processing of fearful experiences, and its impairment can cause anxiety and depression. In one recent review, 95% of studies looking at both physical and functional changes to areas of the brain that regulate emotion showed an impact from air pollution.

How race and income can determine the quality of the air you breathe How race and income can determine the quality of the air you breathe Over 100,000 people are estimated to die from particulate pollution each year Higher income does not guarantee better air for people of color Differences in urban areas more pronounced People of color are more impacted but less responsible for emissions
No one so far can outperform former President Donald Trumps blame-the-media shtick of taunts and tweets. But Ron DeSantis knows the act plays well with the GOP base, so Floridas governor and potential presidential candidate joins in, though far less flamboyantly.

A few pages into his new book, The Courage to Be Free: Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival, DeSantis blandly asserts: A lot of the problems weve seen foisted on the public might not have happened had we had a media that was interested in pursuing the truth rather than furthering partisan narratives.

Thats hardly a rousing call to arms, but its a message, mastered by Trump, that still resonates with millions of citizens.

Nearly any place Americans are willing to talk about current affairs and politics  from the local McDonalds to the halls of Congress  a listener might easily gauge prevailing attitudes toward journalism by asking a few simple questions:

Do you trust journalists to tell the truth?

Does the mainstream press report impartially and fairly?

Is news in general politically slanted to favor liberals?

The answers might come quickly, with certainty and without reservation: No. Theyre all a bunch of liars. I wouldnt read anything published in lamestream media. In fact, opinion polls confirm that millions of Americans distrust journalism. Gallup reported last October that 38% of U.S. adults had no confidence that the media will report news fully, accurately and fairly.

The findings  sadly a new high (or low)  do not amount to breaking news. Rather its additional evidence that the far-rights sustained anti-media campaign has done its job to weaken mainstream journalism and strengthen what the late Roger Ailes espoused as our own news when he headed Fox News between 1996 and 2016.

Few skeptical citizens can explain their disdain for journalism beyond reciting simple catch phrases such as fake news or media bias. Even fewer, perhaps, understand they target an institution the Founders counted on to keep citizens informed and engaged.

The aspirational language of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights helped the Founders craft an ethic of citizenship they believed necessary for a republican (small r) form of government to succeed. Citizens needed to talk (and argue) responsibly, communicating with strangers as well as neighbors. They relied on early journalism as a guide and stimulus.

Today, despite major damage to its credibility, journalism in its various forms continues to play an integral role in assisting responsible citizenship and encouraging dialogue and deliberation necessary for we the people to self-govern, with a couple of caveats: As long as journalism is appreciated and available. Increasingly, neither is the case.

Not long ago, a weekly or daily newspaper served nearly every American city of more than 5,000 residents. They were read, passed around and depended on to keep community members in touch with one another. Now we refer to news deserts where no thorough local news coverage exists, or ghost towns, slang for places where the local newspaper is a ghost of its former self, holding on with a handful of editors and reporters, perhaps just one.

In communities without active journalism, media researchers report that governmental bodies grow lax and residents disengage from politics, with some forgoing voting. Unfortunately, partisan opportunists welcome citizen lethargy.

Without journalists on duty, your town  any town  sometimes never learns what issues need attention in the first place, such as toxins in public drinking water, bullying at a middle school, abuse at an assisted-living facility, or worse. Stories on vital topics like these appear regularly  where news hasnt dried up. Thanks to a resolute family-owned newspaper established in 1905, the residents of tiny McCurtain County, Oklahoma, learned that behind closed doors, local government officials stunningly discussed killing the publishers son for his investigative reporting and reminisced about lynching Black people.

When we refer to journalists, we do not mean pundits and talk-show hosts such as Sean Hannity of Fox News or Joy Reid of MSNBC. Though popular for different reasons, neither represents the workaday press. We worry most about further loss of serious journalists who typically labor in anonymity and in places seldom visited by media celebrities. We worry, too, if civic-minded undergraduates even will consider journalism careers in the future, given the array of false and dismissive accusations.

The vast majority of journalists arent against us, theyre for us. They would never report lies or intentionally provide liars a platform, as Fox News hosts did in promoting the stop-the-steal zealots. While we generalize, we can safely and fairly say this about reporters and editors we know firsthand, including many weve taught:

They get irked when encountering powerful people taking advantage of the powerless.

They seldom take no for an answer from recalcitrant public officials who will not speak candidly to their constituents.

They seek the truth and strive for accuracy, with no detail too small to go unverified.

They remind themselves to be open-minded and empathic toward the people they write about and those who provide them with information and insights.

They filter out hearsay, sift through dubious claims and prioritize their assignments in service to readers or viewers while never forgetting their role to amplify the voices of those without the means or opportunities to be heard on their own.

They put their own worries aside for the benefit of the community. When a tornado knocks out power and destroys their own homes, they step through debris and downed power lines to tell the story.

They report, write and comment despite rising threats on their lives and their families, as the Washington Post spotlighted in a recent editorial: More and more, trolls and haters attack female journalists. Foreign correspondents willingly insert themselves in harms way when keeping the world informed about wars and atrocities. At home, reporters face intimidation for covering increasingly volatile public meetings and chaotic news scenes.

They dont sit and wait for fire alarms to sound. They search proactively for information citizens most need, and they search frequently where the publics business occurs.

They often forsake lucrative careers for one with a median hourly pay under $20 an hour.

The job includes the ostensibly mundane, such as sitting through lengthy government meetings, confirming details of traffic accidents, scouring line items in municipal budgets or checking out police incident reports. But thats how important issues usually come to citizens awareness, not through Twitter feeds, talk-show patter or public relations statements.

While others in public service  dedicated teachers, clergy, social workers, firefighters, law enforcement officers  rightly earn thanks and praise often, many in journalism hear only slurs and complaints. When exposed to a truer, fuller perspective of workaday journalism, citizens might question the legitimacy of such warped, simplistic depictions as the enemy of the people.

All major institutions in a democracy make mistakes, and, when necessary, citizens must critique those who bring us the news. But lets judge the profession with informed opinions and evidence, not simply baseless, echoed putdowns, whether they arise from conversations at Kims Cafe, on Fox News programs or in the pages of a presidential aspirants homily.
EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR MONDAY MAY 8 , 2023

Act Now To Reverse Humanitys Fast-Approaching Thermonuclear Self-Extinction!

May 7, 2023, 2022 (EIRNS)The explosion of drones over the Kremlin on Wednesday, May 3, means the world is closer to thermonuclear war than at any time in history, including October 1962. Absurd stories in the American and European media have appeared (like those that covered up American and NATO responsibility for blowing up the Nord Stream pipelines) that assert, without any evidence, that the Russians flew and blew up the drones themselves. But think: even if that lying absurdity were true, shouldnt that also cause extraordinary alarm? If the United States flew and blew up drones over the White House, and then blamed Russia for supporting, say, Cuba, in a drone-weapon assassination attempt against the President of the United States, wouldnt that mean the world was on the verge of a shooting war between Russia and America, a war potentially deploying thermonuclear weapons that would wipe out life on the planet?

Do you really think that it is sane to be more concerned about saving the planet from man-made global warming than saving humanity from madmen-made thermonuclear war? Citizens, wake up! Its time to take back the United States government from the intelligence agencies that now dominate it, whether in the Congress, State Department, Pentagon or White House, as well as the informal intelligence agency called the mainstream media.

In each of the 435 Congressional legislative districts, individual American citizens have to stand up for sanity. Go to local meetings of your Congressional and state representatives, to city councils, to university lectures, to state fairs and public gatherings, and demand an immediate shut-off of funds to Ukraine; an emergency audit of American funds already disbursed; the immediate passage of the Glass-Steagall Act, to shut down the speculators that use debt to drive the war machine; and demand support for and discussion of the peace initiatives coming from the Vatican, Brazil and China.

While changing U.S. policy clearly requires Congressional and Presidential action, both these institutions are presently dysfunctional. Average Americans, that is, free citizens, have to now stand up, intervene, and be publicly seen and heard both advocating real solutions and implementing them. No partisan party politics! Thermonuclear weapons dont distinguish between Republicans, Democrats, or Independents. This is a time for solidarity.

The people of Russia, China, and the world recognize, just as do Americans, that War Is A Racket! Now, its time that we dismantle that racket, and finally deliver on the promise made by President John F. Kennedy on January 20, 1961 to forge ... a grand and global alliance, North and South, East and West to struggle against the common enemies of man: tyranny, poverty, disease and war itself. In this most dangerous period in the history of the world, we are charged in these days ahead to act in such a way that it may be said, in future generations, that this generation proved that humanity, with all its faults, is greater than its presumed destiny.
The company Ohmium says it has received investments of $250 million to increase production of machines that make hydrogen for energy.

Ohmium is a company based in the state of Nevada with offices in Californias Silicon Valley and India. It makes machines called electrolyzers which separate water into hydrogen and oxygen.

Climate activists say hydrogen is a clean fuel for energy and can possibly be used in place of fossil fuels such as coal, oil or gas.

Daryl Wilson is head of the Hydrogen Council, a group of business leaders who support hydrogen that is based in Brussels, Belgium. Wilson said just four or five years ago, a company working on producing hydrogen from water would not have been able to raise several hundred million dollars. But now theres fast growth and demand for it, he said.

Mark Viehman is a hydrogen and clean fuels expert at the Paris-based consulting business Capgemini. He said its recent research found that 64 percent of energy and utility companies plan to put money into low-carbon hydrogen efforts by 2030.

Arne Ballantine is the head of Ohmium. He said the company will use the $250 million to improve its factory in India, continue research in California, and hire more workers. The company currently has about 400 workers.

Ballantine said he plans to make enough electrolyzers each year to produce enough hydrogen to supply two gigawatts of electricity. He said that would provide power for a few steel or fertilizer factories.

Countries and businesses say they want to cut the release of carbon dioxide from manufacturing by using hydrogen. The U.S., European Union, Canada and India are offering tax credits and other incentives for companies to produce clean, or green, hydrogen.

An electrolyzer produces clean hydrogen if it gets electricity from renewable energy, such as wind and solar power. The International Energy Agency says less than one percent of hydrogen produced around the world currently comes from renewable energy.

Electrolyzers use huge amounts of electricity. Most of them need fossil fuels to operate. Emily Kent of the Clean Air Task Force, a nonprofit group based in Boston, said it will take a large increase in electricity created without fossil fuels to get enough clean hydrogen.

However, most hydrogen today comes from natural gas, a fossil fuel. Some U.S. power producers plan to use Ohmiums Lotus electrolyzer as a partial substitute for natural gas. Ohmium is also working with Spanish and Indian companies on energy projects.

Each electrolyzer can produce up to 45 metric tons of hydrogen per year. The device costs several hundred thousand dollars. Ohmium said each is about two-and-a-half meters high by one-and-a-half wide and almost two meters long. The company said the devices can fit together and be placed in different positions, in case more than one is needed.

Im Andrew Smith.

Jennifer McDermott wrote this story for The Associated Press. Andrew Smith adapted it for VOA Learning English.

__________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

utility company n. a company that provides a necessary service to the public such as water, electricity or gas

hire v. to give someone a job

incentive n. something that causes a person or group to want to do something

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A new study suggests water may have existed on Mars much more recently than past evidence has shown.

The research is based on data collected by Chinas Zhurong explorer vehicle. The explorer, or rover, arrived on the planet in 2021.

Evidence of surface water was found in warmer areas of Mars that might have been fertile enough to support conditions for life, the researchers said. A study reporting the results was recently published in Science Advances.

A scientific team from Chinas Institute of Geology and Geophysics led the research. The institute is part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Today, Mars has a cold, desert climate. But past studies have provided evidence that ancient Mars had large amounts of water. This is believed to have included rivers, lakes and oceans. A 2015 study by the American space agency NASA suggested that 4.3 billion years ago, Mars likely had an ocean covering nearly half of the planets northern hemisphere.

There are different theories for what caused large amounts of water to disappear from Mars. The most likely explanation is that the liquid escaped when the planets atmosphere thinned over time, NASA explains. This let the water evaporate, turning the Martian surface into a frozen desert. The space agency estimates the evaporation happened about 3 billion years ago.

In the new study, researchers said the Chinese rover observed salt-rich sand dunes on the surface. The dunes contained breaks, crusts and small hills. The team said these landforms provide evidence that land had frozen and then melted in the areas studied. The melting could have happened as recently as a few hundred thousand years ago, the study said.

The rovers observations were made in an area called Utopia Planitia, a large flat area, called a plain, in Marss northern hemisphere. The researchers said they believe the dunes were likely formed sometime after 1.4 million to 400,000 years ago, possibly even more recently. Conditions during that period were likely similar to how things are on Mars today.

Xiaoguang Qin is with the Institute of Geology and Geophysics and was a co-writer of the study. He told The Associated Press (AP), "We think it could be a small amount...no more than a film of water on the surface.

The rover did not directly observe water in the form of frost or ice. But Qin said computer modeling and observations by other spacecraft on Mars suggest that even today, at some times of the year, conditions could be right for water to appear.

Planetary scientist Frederic Schmidt is with the University of Paris-Saclay. He was not part of the study. But he said he finds the results notable because they demonstrate how young the dunes are. This is clearly a new piece of science for the area, Schmidt told the AP.

The researchers said they believe small openings filled with salty water were created by melting frost or snow. This likely resulted in the small cracks, hard crusty material and other surface changes observed by the rover. The team ruled out wind as a cause, as well as frost made of carbon dioxide, which makes up most of the Martian atmosphere.

The rover has now provided evidence that there may be a wider distribution of this process on Mars than previously identified, said Mary Bourke. She is an expert in Mars geology at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. She added that although the evidence suggests small amounts of water, it could still be important in identifying environments that could support life.

The findings were reported days after China confirmed its Zhurong rover has yet to wake up since going into hibernation for the Martian winter nearly a year ago. Chinese space officials have said the rovers solar equipment is likely covered with dust, blocking the sun and cutting power to the explorer.

Before it went silent, Zhurong had explored the Martian surface for 358 days and traveled 1,921 meters, space officials said. This was far longer than the rovers planned three-month operation, officials added.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from The Associated Press, Reuters, the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Science Advances.

Quiz - Chinese Explorer Finds Signs of Recent Water on Mars Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

_________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

evaporate  v. when liquid changes from a solid state into a gas or vapor

dune  n. a hill of sand

crust  n. a hard, dry layer on the surface of something

frost  n. a thin, white layer of ice that forms on surfaces, especially at night when it is cold

distribute  v. to give something out to people or places

hibernate  v. to go into a sleeping state for a period of time

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Indian Railways is getting closer to finishing work on a new rail line connecting Indian-controlled Kashmir to the rest of India.

Officials say the line could bring big changes to the area. They say it will permit faster movement of people, goods, and security workers.

Indian-controlled Kashmir shares a border with Indias two main competitors, Pakistan and China.

Darshana Jardosh is Indias minister of state for railways. During a visit to check on progress on the line, she said the railway network is important for security.

Officials say the 272-kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project involves highly advanced engineering knowledge. The line runs through a mountainous area.

Irfan Mushtaq, a contractor for Konkan Railways, is building a railway station at Reasi, near the southern end of the line. He told VOA that it had been one of the most challenging projects he has ever worked on because of the terrain, lack of skilled laborers and bad weather.

We have worked day and night for this project to complete. This project will benefit the locals of Reasi and the people of the region as a whole, he said.

The USBRL was declared a national project in 2002.

Officials say the line will contain the worlds highest rail bridge, 38 tunnels and 931 bridges. The Chenab Bridge crosses the Chenab River at a height of 366 meters. The tunnels will have a combined length of 119 kilometers. The system will include the two longest transportation tunnels in India at 12.75 and 11.2 kilometers.

The project also includes the Anji Khad Bridge, Indian Railways first cable-supported rail bridge. The 750-meter bridge will cross high above the Anji Khad River. The part supported by cables will be 473 meters long.

India created a rail connection to Jammu after gaining independence from British rule in 1947. The first passenger train arrived at Jammu station in December 1972. But it has taken another 50 years for Indian Railways to build the rail line through to the Kashmir Valley.

Devendra Sharma is a site engineer with the company Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. It has been building a bridge at Reasi since 2016. He praised the jobs created by the project and noted that the company hires local workers.

On average, we employed 700-800 laborers daily to complete this bridge, which we expect to complete by the end of May, Sharma said.

Officials say the railway line will also increase tourism in the region and give local farmers access to a larger market.

However, some Kashmiris are concerned the project could harm the area. It currently is Indias only Muslim majority region. Some local Muslims worry that the rail line could change that.

Some also oppose the increased military presence in the area that is expected as a result of the project.

Im Faith Pirlo.

Bilal Hussain wrote this story for Voice of America. Andrew Smith adapted it for VOA Learning English.

__________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

advanced -adj. having a high level of skill or difficulty

challenging -adj. difficult to do

region -n. a geographic area

cable -n. a kind of strong, think wire or rope, often used to support of hang heavy objects

tourism -n. the business and activities related to travel

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LINCOLN  After the failure of a bill that would have banned abortions around six weeks of pregnancy, a Nebraska lawmaker is looking to introduce new abortion restrictions as part of a separate bill that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth.

State Sen. Ben Hansen of Blair introduced an amendment to Legislative Bill 574 that would ban abortions at 12 weeks past gestation and would change the details of the original bill. As currently written, LB 574 would ban puberty blockers, hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries for individuals under 19.

Hansens amendment would instead just ban surgeries for those under 19, and would task the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to regulate puberty blockers and hormone treatment. Patients who have already undergone such treatment prior to the legislation taking effect would be exempt.

Framed by supporters as a compromise, the proposal drew fierce criticism Monday from opponents. Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha said the amendment joins the two most explosive, nuclear bills of the session into one piece of legislation, and called out lawmakers for trying to resurrect a bill that was already killed.

You are so unable to lose fair and square that youre seriously willing to blow up the entire session, Hunt said.

In terms of transgender health care, Hansens amendment is a less restrictive version of what LB 574s introducer, Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, was planning to offer through her own amendment. She previously said her amendment would mainly be to include a grandfather clause, while maintaining LB 574s ban on puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgeries.

Monday, however, Kauth expressed her support for Hansens amendment. Although she isnt totally happy with the changes he is proposing, she said Hansens amendment should ensure the votes are rock solid to pass the measure.

Hansen and Kauth both described the amendment as a compromise  both on LB 574, and on the previous bill that aimed to increase abortion restrictions. Hansen said the changes to LB 574 incorporated suggestions opponents made during a series of talks after the trans health care bills second round of debate.

Two weeks ago, lawmakers failed to advance LB 626, which would have banned abortions once embryonic cardiac activity can be detected, around six weeks of pregnancy. The bill was blocked by one vote when co-sponsor Sen. Merv Riepe of Ralston was present but not voting on a filibuster-ending cloture motion.

Riepe had introduced his own amendment to LB 626, which would have banned abortions at 12 weeks after fertilization. Hansen said he consulted with Riepe on his amendment, which incorporates Riepes suggestions with some of the original components of LB 626.

A 12-week ban based on gestational age is more restrictive than Riepes proposal at 12 weeks post fertilization. Gestational age measures a pregnancy based on the womans last menstrual period, whereas fertilization refers to the moment the egg is fertilized. The difference between the two could amount to several weeks.

Hansens amendment also does not include an exception for fetal anomalies, as Riepes amendment did. Although Hansen said Riepe had committed to supporting the amendment, Riepe indicated Monday that he was still undecided.

I want to wait until it plays out, Riepe said.

A 12-week abortion ban is more expansive than many conservative lawmakers had hoped to pass this session, including Hansen. Last year, lawmakers narrowly failed to pass a total abortion ban, and before LB 626 was blocked, many lawmakers spoke against Riepes 12-week suggestion.

Kauth and Hansen said many of those same lawmakers were disappointed when LB 626 failed, and while they would favor more restrictive legislation, they would rather increase abortion restrictions somewhat than to do nothing.

Pro-life is sometimes a gradient, Hansen said.

Two presumed swing votes on LB 574, Sens. Tom Brandt of Plymouth and Jana Hughes of Seward, would not confirm how they plan to vote when the bill reaches its final round of debate. Brandt said he was given a rough outline of the Hansen amendment before it was introduced, but he still wants to read it for himself before he decides. Hughes said she also hasnt finished reading the amendment, but as of Monday afternoon she was leaning yes.

Opponents railed against various aspects of the amendment on the floor Monday. Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, who has launched a session-long filibuster in protest of LB 574, said adopting the amendment would be inviting a lawsuit based on Nebraskas single-subject rule alone.

Sen. Jen Day of Omaha said some senators were treating the legislation as a game, with winning as the goal. But all this legislative maneuvering, she said, will have a big effect on peoples lives.

I literally have no idea how you people sleep at night, she said. People are going to die.

World-Herald staff writer Martha Stoddard contributed to this report.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of May 2023
The Pakistani president assured Beijings top diplomat that his country will boost security for all Chinese nationals working on multi-billion dollar projects in cash-strapped Pakistan.

China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country since 2021, when a suicide bomber killed nine Chinese and four Pakistanis in an attack in Pakistans volatile northwest.

More recently, a Chinese national working on the Dasu Dam, a Chinese-funded hydropower project and the biggest of its kind in Pakistan, was arrested on blasphemy charges after an angry mob accused him of insulting Islam when he criticized a coworker for taking too much time to pray during working hours.

Pakistans controversial blasphemy laws carry the death penalty, and sometimes even a mere suggestion of blasphemy is enough to entice mobs to violence or lynching. The Chinese man was subsequently released under a court order but it remained unclear if he would face trial or be deported home.

President Arif Alvi pledged more security for Chinese workers during a meeting over the weekend [Macau time] with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang. The two spoke ahead of a mini-summit on Saturday in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, during which Pakistans foreign minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, will host Qin and also Afghanistans Taliban-appointed foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Muttaqi also arrived in Islamabad on Friday ahead of the three-way meeting the next day. The gathering is also seen as an outreach to the Taliban by Pakistan, which has acted as a mediator with Afghanistans new rulers, and also China, which is eager to expand its influence in the region.

The Taliban have been shunned by most of the international community for the harsh and restrictive measures they have imposed since they seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021, when U.S. and NATO troops were in the final weeks of their pullout from the country after 20 years of war, particularly banning girls from education beyond the sixth grade and barring women from most jobs and public life.

In Pakistan, Beijing is bankrolling the so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC  a sprawling package that includes a multitude of mega projects such as road construction, power plants and agriculture. The package is a lifeline for Pakistans cash-strapped government, currently facing one of the worst economic crises amid stalled talks on a bailout with the International Monetary Fund.

CPEC, also known as the One Road Project, is part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, a global endeavor aimed at reconstituting the Silk Road and linking China to all corners of Asia.

Alvi and Qin reaffirmed their resolve to work together to promote regional peace and prosperity as well as jointly cope with external challenges. Alvi told the Chinese diplomat that Pakistan-China relations were rooted in mutual trust and understanding.

The Chinese minister was quoted in the statement as saying their nations were all-weather friends whose friendship was as solid as a rock.

This is the second time that Muttaqi, the Taliban official, is visiting Pakistan since the Taliban takeover. Pakistan has lately expressed concern over a surge in attacks across the country by the Pakistani Taliban  an independent militant group that is allied with and sheltered by the Afghan Taliban.

Islamabad has demanded from the Taliban in Kabul that they do more to rein in anti-Pakistani groups such as the Pakistani Taliban  also known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP  which have stepped up attacks on Pakistani security forces in recent months.

Muttaqi is also expected to discuss the issue of Afghan refugees living in Pakistan as well as the two nations border issues. In February, the two sides shut the main Afghan-Pakistan border crossing at Torkham, stranding people and thousands of trucks carrying food and essential items.

After a Pakistani delegation travelled to Kabul for talks on the crisis, the border was reopened after a week. MUNIR AHMED, ISLAMABAD, MDT/AP
After nearly a decade of grinding conflict, Yemen looks to be inching toward a peace deal.

Talks between the Houthi movement controlling much of the countrys north and Saudi Arabia, the regional power backing an anti-Houthi coalition in the war, are ongoing and being encouraged by international observers.

On May 1, 2023, the U.S. announced that it had sent Special Envoy to Yemen Tim Lenderking to the Persian Gulf to advance ongoing efforts to secure a new agreement and launch a comprehensive peace process.

But the U.S. has far less of a role in steering negotiations than Washingtons great global rival: China. The recent breakthrough in Yemen has been undergirded by a rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by Beijing in March 2023.

It remains to be seen whether the Saudi-Iran breakthrough might contribute to a lasting peace in Yemen.

But given the role that the rivalry between the regional powers has had in fueling the fighting, international observers have expressed optimism.

The disintegration of Yemen began with the collapse of its central government in 2011 after the Arab Spring uprising. In 2014, the Houthi group, a Shiite militia backed by Iran, took control of the capital, Sanaa, and forced transitional President Abdo Rabbu Mansour Hadi to flee to Aden. Hadis government struggled to establish itself in Aden and eventually relocated to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he resigned in 2022.

Viewing the Houthis as an Iranian proxy, Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemeni conflict, backing those loyal to Hadi and bombarding Houthi areas from the air. These Saudi-led attacks contributed to a massive humanitarian crisis. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 377,000 Yemenis, the United Nations projected in 2021, many through indirect causes such as starvation and disease. It has also led to widespread displacement of civilian populations and the breakdown of infrastructure.

The country remains fragmented, with militias controlling separate territories and no functional central government.

So where does China come in? Beijing has no formal diplomatic, economic or political ties with any the numerous militias that currently govern parts of the country. But before 2014, China had a healthy trading and economic relationship with Yemen. According to the World Bank, in 2013 China was Yemens second-largest trading partner after Saudi Arabia.

Since 2014, trade between China and Yemen persisted, albeit in a mostly informal manner. Data from the international trade-tracking Observatory of Economic Complexity indicates that China imported US$411 million worth of products, mainly crude oil but also copper, from Yemen in 2021. What remains unclear is which rebel factions have received revenue through the trade.

Meanwhile, China has maintained formal diplomatic and economic ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates  each of which back militias involved in Yemens war. In fact, China has been intensifying its economic and political connections with all three regional powers.

In recent years, Chinese leader Xi Jinping has visited both the UAE and Saudi Arabia to underscore Beijings growing role as a partner in the region. Xi also recently hosted Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi during a state visit to China.

This expanding relationship with key players in the Yemeni conflict puts China in a unique position as a potential peace broker.

The UAE can influence Yemeni factions it has provided military and financial support to, including the Security Belt forces affiliated with the transitional government. However, the Emiratis goals may differ from those seeking a unified, independent Yemen. Since the conflict broke out, the UAE has displayed a tendency to undermine Yemens territorial integrity through, for example, taking control of some Yemeni islands, such as Socotra.

Similarly, Iran may be reluctant to accept any peace agreement that would diminish its influence in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia, of the three, stands to gain the most from peace in Yemen. Cessation of conflict would likely halt Houthi attacks on the kingdom, save the Saudis money and resources dedicated to the Yemeni war, and potentially restore an international reputation tarnished by alleged war crimes in the conflict.

To broker peace in Yemen, China would presumably need to concentrate efforts on working with the Saudis.

The Chinese-backed rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran could be a first step to this end.

It could be that China is seeking to be seen as a global peacemaker as part of a strategy that has been referred to as diplomatic whitewashing  that is, making friends overseas and playing the nice guy to distract from Chinas treatment of its Uyghur minority at home and Xis increasingly confrontational posture on Taiwan and the South China Sea.

But it also fits a wider geopolitical trend. The counterbalance to Chinas growing role in the Middle East is the declining influence of the United States in the region.

[Abridged]

Mahad Darar, Colorado State University


Canelo Alvarez returned home and remained the undisputed super middleweight champion Saturday night, beating John Ryder by unanimous decision before more than 50,000 fans in his first fight in Mexico since 2011.

Alvarez bloodied the British challengers nose and knocked him down, cruising to the victory by scores of 120-107 on one card and 118-109 on the other two to improve to 59-2-2.

I hit him too much in the head and he did not go down, Canelo said at ring side after the fight. Ive always said it, when they fight me, they give their 100%, it gets complicated because they usually give me the fight of their lives.

Ryder said that he suffered what is probably a broken nose in the second round and that played a major role in having his four-bout winning streak stopped and is 32-6.

Hes probably past his best, he could not get me out there, he wanted to stop me and could not do it, Ryder said at a press conference. It could have been a little different without the problem to my nose, it took me a few rounds to get adjusted.

It was Canelos first fight since he had surgery on his left wrist last March. Before the fight, he said the injury slowed him down in his previous four fights, including his loss to Russian light heavyweight champion Dmitry Bivol a year ago.

In the first rounds I was not confident, but then I started punching strong with it, and that gives me motivation going forward, added the Mexican.

After getting a hard-fought victory over Ryder, Canelo has his eyes set on a rematch against Bivol in September and plans to fight him at 175 pounds.

I dont want to make any excuses from what happened the last time, its pointless, but this time my preparation will be different because now (that hes injury free) I can do a different preparation to do all of the things that needs to be done.

In a fight that was touted as the King is Coming Home, the sold-out crowd at Akron stadium in Guadalajara, just 25 miles away from Juanacatlan, the small town where Canelo grew up, screamed deliriously during the whole fight.

It was different, Ive fought in stadiums before, but tonight was very different, the vibe of the crowd was awesome, Im very thankful, added Alvarez.

Amongst his family and friends, Canelo had his 94-year-old grandmother, Enedina, who watched him fight for the first time in his career.

She gets really nervous, she does not even watch my fights on TV, it was hard convincing her to come, but she said that she wanted to do it for me, and it was very special, added Canelo.

Alvarez and Ryder started a slow-paced fight in the first two rounds, but Canelo connected with a straight right and Ryder started bleeding from the nose after the third round.

The Mexican kept pressing the action in the fourth round, landing body shots, and then sent Ryder to the mat with a right hook to the chin.

Ryder made Canelo uncomfortable in the fifth and landed a few shots on the face of the Mexican, but Alvarez landed another right in the ninth. Ryder stumbled, but rallied and answered with a shot that shook the Mexican.

Ryder, with a bloodied face, closed the fight well in the last two rounds, but was not enough to get the upset.

In the undercard, Julio Cesar Rey Martinez (19-2) knocked out Ronal Batista (15-2) to retain the WBC flyweight title. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ, MDT/AP
If ever there was a banner day for hats  wild and colorful hats  it was Saturday, the dual spectacle of King Charles IIIs coronation and the celebration that IS the Kentucky Derby.

Katy Perry donned a wide lilac hat to go with her matching bespoke jacket and skirt by Vivienne Westwood, her chin up as she peered under its flat, tilted brim while she searched for her seat at Westminster Abbey (yes, there were memes).

And there was Princess Anne, the kings sister, in a two-pointed military topper with tall red feathers that blocked Prince Harrys view from the third row (more memes ensued). Sorry, Harry, she was chosen as Gold Stick in Waiting and holds a variety of military titles.

Its tradition, of course, to wear hats to coronations and other formal royal affairs, but the thousands who gathered on the streets to celebrate went all out with head gear, from fake golden crowns to novelty deeley bobbers (those springy headband things) and hats of all kinds with motifs featuring the British flag.

Speaking of hats of all kinds, the Kentucky Derby is arguably the worlds most famous horse race. Its also a chance for racegoers to strut their fashion stuff.

Seersucker suits, floral dresses and bright colors abound, but racegoers famously elevate their style to another level with their grand collections of hats and fascinators.

Men tend to favor fedoras or bowlers, while women sport designs featuring feathers and flowers in every shape, color and size. Bigger is often better when it comes to Derby hats.

The event has appointed an official milliner, or hatmaker, every year since 2018. But in a sign of their growing importance at the Kentucky Derby, it named three milliners for the 2023 event: Christine Moore, Jenny Pfanenstiel and The Hat Girls.

The tradition of wearing hats to the Derby began with its first running in 1875. MDT/AP
In the fairy-tale ending to the ancient pageantry in which King Charles III was crowned monarch, he stepped into a gilded horse-drawn carriage with his queen and rode off to his palace.

Following closely behind was Prince William, his eldest son and heir, along with his family, including 9-year-old Prince George who is second in line to the throne.

The kings youngest son was nowhere to be seen. On his fathers biggest day, Prince Harry arrived at Westminster Abbey alone and he left alone. The disgruntled Duke of Sussex was assigned to sit two rows behind his brother.

His isolation was likely the result of him quitting his royal duties and, thus, no longer ranking as a senior family member  as well as alienating himself from his father and brother by airing grievances and telling palace secrets in his explosive best-selling memoir, Spare.

If anyone was hoping the coronation would help break the ice between Harry and his brother, who were once so close, they are sure to have been disappointed. The siblings were not seen speaking or even acknowledging each other during the ceremony.

After months of speculation about whether he would attend, it was announced about three weeks ago that Harry would come alone, leaving behind his wife, Meghan, and their two young children at their Southern California home.

Harry and Meghan, who is biracial, left royal life and moved to the U.S. in 2020 after complaining about intense scrutiny and racist attitudes from the British press.

In a six-part Netflix series, they lobbed other criticisms at the royal family, alleging racial bias. In January, Harry dropped his bombshell book dishing family dirt along with intimate details about losing his virginity behind a pub at 17, taking drugs and killing enemies in Afghanistan.

The book was particularly unflattering toward his stepmother, Camilla, who was once blamed for wrecking his fathers marriage to his mother, the late Princess Diana. He accused Camilla of leaking private conversations to the media to rehabilitate her own image after marrying Charles.

Buckingham Palace had announced before the coronation that Harry and the kings brother, Prince Andrew, would not have any role in the service.

Andrew, the Duke of York, relinquished royal duties after revelations about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He was later stripped of his honorary military titles and patronages and settled a lawsuit with a woman who said she was forced to have sex with him when she was a teenager.

William played a prominent role, kneeling at his fathers feet, pledging his loyalty and then kissing him on the cheek. George served as page boy, helping to carry the train of his grandfathers robes.

Harry entered the cavernous church in a black custom Dior three-piece suit with coattails. An honorary cross hung around his neck and military medals were pinned to the left side of his chest. He nodded, waved and spoke a few words to clergy and several guests already seated.

He proceeded along behind his cousin, Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, who followed her father, Andrew. They all sat in the same row.

During the two-hour spectacle, keen attention was focused on Harry by the media and royal watchers. He appeared to join the congregation in one of many refrains of God save the king during the pomp- and music-filled ceremony.

Some British tabloids even consulted professional lip-readers to interpret what Harry was saying.

The Daily Mirror revealed that it appeared he said, hello, morning and nice to see you when he entered the church.

Harry has vowed to make media reform part of his mission in life. He has filed several lawsuits against the publishers of British tabloids for a phone-hacking scandal dating back more than a decade.

His trial against the publisher of the Mirror begins Wednesday in the High Court. Harry is expected to testify in June.

After the carriages departed from the church, Harry was seen waiting for a car. He was later seen at Heathrow Airport. His son, Archie, turned 4 on Saturday and it was said he was headed back for his birthday.

A short while later, King Charles III and Queen Camilla stepped out onto the balcony of Buckingham Palace to wave to the crowd gathered below. They were joined by William, his wife, Kate, three children and other senior royals. BRIAN MELLEY, LONDON, MDT/AP
First lady Jill Biden, who represented the United States at Saturdays coronation of Britains King Charles III, said there was such beauty in the pageantry of the ceremony and it was just amazing to see.

You cant imagine that moment where you actually see the crown being placed on the head of the king and then on the head on the queen, she said during a telephone interview with The Associated Press after the ceremony in London. Its really surreal to see and experience that moment.

Charles wife, Camilla, also was crowned queen during Britains first coronation in 70 years. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died last September after a seven-decade reign.

An American president has never attended a British coronation and President Joe Biden asked the first lady to represent the U.S. in his place. The White House said Jill Bidens appearance marked the first time that a U.S. first lady was present for a British coronation.

She brought one of her granddaughters, Finnegan Biden, 24, on the trip.

Its my honor to represent the people of the United States and I wanted to be here, Jill Biden said

We thought that was something that was so British, she said of their tea time. It was something we really wanted to do together.

She said sitting and watching the ceremony led her to think about the importance of traditions.

At the coronation, Jill Biden sat beside Olena Zelenska, the first lady of Ukraine. Jill Biden said they talked about Russias invasion of Ukraine and that Zelenska thanked her again for the support from the United States.

Jill Biden said she paid close attention to Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welbys message that people everywhere seek hope and joy.

And I thought that was such strong message because I think that is true, she said. And its true for all people everywhere, but I think it was important at this moment that the clergy brought that in to this moment in history.

The first lady attended a Buckingham Palace reception Friday that was hosted by Charles. She said Charles recounted to her his most recent telephone conversation with President Biden and asked her to give my best to your husband.

She said she and Princess Kate chatted as mothers about the lengths to which they go to keep their children quiet in church, feeding them pieces of candy and such.

She said she didnt know if her son could sit still for two hours and we just had a good laugh over it, Jill Biden said. Its just something, I think, thats common to a lot of us. MDT/AP
The current number of Covid-19 infections in Macau has remained steady at an average of more than 20 cases per day, according to the Health Bureau. The bureau, amid the World Health Organizations declaration that Covid-19 is over as a global health emergency, expects that a second wave of small-scale rebound infections will happen this month. The government said it will continue to monitor the number of people infected with the virus.

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DANE COUNTY | MENTAL HEALTH

A Dane County program that connects students with mental health services will expand this year, Dane County Executive Joe Parisi said.

For nearly a decade, Building Bridges has given participating districts access to case management and service coordination for students in 4K through eighth grade in need of mental health support. The program brings mental health professionals into participating schools, allowing struggling students easier access to counseling, crisis management and other services.

Parisi said in a statement that "new dollars" in the county budget will allow the program to add additional Building Bridges teams in the Sun Prairie and the Madison school districts, supplementing students' access to mental health resources.

"Anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health needs remain great among an increasing number of young people," Parisi said. "We launched this effort around a decade ago to intervene and focus on prevention, reducing the downstream impacts of mental illness which can impact academic performance and be a barrier to personal and professional success."

In the 2021 Dane County Youth Assessment, 36% of seventh-and eighth-grade students said they felt "nervous, anxious or on edge" always or sometimes, while 23% reported feeling "so sad or hopeless almost every day for at least two weeks in a row" that they stopped doing usual activities.

Among students whose districts participate in Building Bridges, data shows improvements in mental health outcomes. From intake to six-month follow-ups, about 21% of students saw reliable improvement in 2021-2022, while partial data from 2022-2023 shows 31% seeing reliable improvement.

When Parisi first announced the initiative in fall 2013, Building Bridges was a pilot program with the Verona, Sun Prairie and Madison school districts. It now includes eight other area districts: Deforest, Middleton-Cross Plains, Monona Grove, Mount Horeb, Oregon, Stoughton, Waunakee and Wisconsin Heights.

The initiative is funded through an annual $1.9 million county budget allocation, with local districts partnering to financially support it.
KENOVA, W.Va.  The jukebox plays Chubby Checker's "The Twist" as Malli Jarrett and Nathaniel Fornash take turns at the Griffith & Feil Drug food counter preparing old-fashioned, soda-fountain phosphate drinks.

Soda fountains like this were hugely popular a century ago. Often located in pharmacies, they were a gathering spot during Prohibition when bars shut down. But over the past half century, their numbers fizzled, relegating soda fountains to the scrapbooks of U.S. history.

In West Virginia, Ric Griffith is keeping the tradition going. His 131-year-old business is a Norman Rockwell scene and time-travel tourism all wrapped into one.

"When you had a soda fountain, people would stay longer, they'd sit down and they'd share stories," Griffith said. "It would not become the place where you grabbed lunch. It was a place where you had an experience."

Griffith and his daughter, Heidi, are pharmacists whose pharmacy staff works in the back. Up front, the restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials. Customers soak in the ambience: the jukebox, neon-pink signs, black-and-white photos of local landmarks, marbled counters, retro padded stools and a metal-tiled ceiling.

And, of course, those tart-and-sweet phosphate drinks.

Griffith leaves the dispensing to soda jerks like Jarrett and Fornash (they're not really jerks  the term describes the motion used to pull the handle of the soda water dispenser).

"It's fun working at a place like this, watching all the customers come in, looking around, taking a step back in time and telling me about how a lot of them used to work here when they were younger," Jarrett said.

The first U.S. patent for dispensing carbonated water through a soda fountain spigot dates to the early 1800s. Acid phosphate drinks were developed decades later as pharmacists mixed tonics for customers who sought cures for ailments. As soda fountain manufacturing and efficiency improved, so did the recipes and flavors. The drinks were given names like Green River or Black Cow.

Food menus were added, and customers ate while waiting for prescriptions to be filled.

In Oregon, the Grants Pass Pharmacy has served phosphate drinks since opening in 1933. Those were the years when soda-fountain pharmacies skyrocketed; under Prohibition, the manufacture and sale of alcohol was banned from 1920 to 1933.

Pharmacist-owner Michele Belcher was a soda jerk starting in middle school after her parents bought the Grants Pass Pharmacy from the original owner in 1973. Part of the challenge, she said, is updating old equipment while preserving some of the character of the original soda fountain.

"Many times people will make the effort to come back and touch base with me or leave a note that they appreciated that it was still here in our community," Belcher said.

By the late 1950s, pharmacists were reviewing their business models to make the most of tight spaces, including replacing the soda fountain with shelves stocked with home staples. Mom-and-pop drug stores eventually couldn't keep up with tightening government regulations or competition from mall food courts, chain pharmacies and fast-food restaurants.

Some stayed open but closed either the pharmacy or soda fountain sides. Others morphed into side businesses such as gift shops and ice cream parlors.

The past decade has been especially rough. The Highland Park Soda Fountain in Dallas, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2012, shut down in 2018. The Central Drug Store in Bessemer City, North Carolina, open 94 years, closed in 2021. Borroum's Drug Store in Corinth, Mississippi, also closed its pharmacy that year after more than 150 years in business, but keeps its soda fountain going.

Now, a new generation of owners is emerging  literally out of the ashes in the case of the Phoenix Pharmacy and Fountain in Knoxville, Tennessee. It opened in 2016 in a century-old building that had seen two devastating fires.

The Phoenix "is not about resurrecting your grandfather's neighborhood pharmacy; it is about reintroducing the attitude of it," its website says.

Also in 2016, Rhode Island pharmacist Christina Procaccianti founded the Green Line Apothecary, a full-service pharmacy and soda fountain in two locations.

At Griffith & Feil, in West Virginia, Ric Griffith, 74, is proud of his collection of 41 presidential signatures and other memorabilia and is always ready to explain them on cue.

What he can't share are memories of the soda fountain as a child. His father removed it in 1957. Griffith reinstalled one in 2004 after three years of painstaking prep work. "I always yearned for that myself," he said.

After the reopening, Griffith recalled, a man sitting in a booth with his granddaughter was sharing stories of his youth. Decades before, the man said, he would arrive in the same booths after school and order a cherry Coke. Griffith listened to the conversation, "and the look on his granddaughter's face was wonderful," he said. "She'd never thought of her grandfather as ever having been young. He was always her grandfather."

It solidified Griffith's hope that people can still partake in what once was a common tradition in little towns across America: sharing meals and stories rather than choosing the easy route of a fast-food drive-thru.

"And so when we preserve history, we're not just preserving actifacts," Griffith said. "We're preserving a style of living, a way of interacting. That soda fountain has blessed me in many ways."

20 photos of Chicago in the 1950s 20 photos of Chicago in the 1950s The Chicago Theater A Goldblatt's man at home A workers cottage neighborhood The end of an era The Regal Theater A Chicago-style protest Bronzeville A Chicago girlor two The business district A Chicago winter Maxwell Street The Gaslight Club Community outreach The Loop A Chicago Cubs icon Preparing for a strike Dining out The steel strike Maxwell Street Market A World Series bid
ADDICTION CRISIS

With opioid overdose deaths at record levels in Wisconsin and Dane County, a new clinic opening in Madison this month will be the fifth in the city licensed to provide methadone, one of three medications approved to treat opioid use disorder.

Community Medical Services, or CMS, an Arizona-based company that operates three of Wisconsin's 25 methadone clinics, or opioid treatment programs, is opening a clinic at 4802 East Broadway, north of the Beltline and east of Highway 51, or Stoughton Road. A ribbon cutting is taking place Monday, with the clinic expected to open for patients May 24.

Like other methadone clinics in Madison and elsewhere, the new CMS clinic will also offer other forms of medication-assisted treatment for addiction, which include buprenorphine, or Suboxone, and naltrexone, or Vivitrol. It will also provide counseling and peer support services.

"There was a lot of need and a lot of requests for us to come out there," said Andrea Mankee, senior operations manager of new markets for CMS.

The clinic will be open 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, Mankee said. The city's other clinics close by 1 to 2 p.m. on weekdays and by 9 to 10 a.m. on weekends.

"Our focus is on getting people healthy and getting them employment and their family back," she said. "We wanted to make it a lot more convenient ... We want to be available when the clients are ready for help."

Wisconsin had 1,427 opioid overdose deaths in 2021, 16.3% more than the previous record in 2020 and more than double the toll from just six and seven years earlier, with fentanyl fueling much of the increase, officials say.

In Dane County, 139 people died from opioid overdoses in 2021, 13% higher than the previous record the year before, according to the state Department of Health Services.

Two methadone clinics opened in Madison in 2018, doubling the city's total. Addiction Services and Pharmacotherapy, on East Olin Avenue near John Nolen Drive, was started by family medicine doctors who have worked at Madison hospitals. Psychological Addiction Services is on East Washington Avenue near Aberg Avenue. It is in the same building as the former Madison Health Services, a methadone clinic that closed several years ago.

The other methadone clinics in the city are owned by Acadia Healthcare. Its Madison East Comprehensive Treatment Center is on World Dairy Drive on the Southeast Side, a mile from the new CMS clinic. Acadia's Madison West Comprehensive Treatment Center is on East Badger Road on the South Side.

Acadia, based in Franklin, Tennessee, plans to open a 120-bed psychiatric hospital on Madison's Far East Side by December 2024. The facility, in the High Crossing development east of Interstate 39-90-94 and south of Highway 151, will treat adults with substance use disorder, among other conditions, officials have said.

Other clinics and providers prescribe buprenorphine or naltrexone, including Monarch Health Addiction Recovery Clinics, which opened in 2020 in Downtown Madison, at the corner of East Washington Avenue and South Blair Street.

CMS has more than 60 methadone clinics and prison programs in 10 states, including clinics in Fond du Lac, South Milwaukee and West Allis. It plans to open a clinic in Pewaukee.

Statewide, 12,970 patients were treated at the state's methadone clinics in 2021, including 1,486 in Dane County.

Methadone and buprenorphine are synthetic opioids that can reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal for people addicted to opioids. Naltrexone, an injection taken every four weeks, blocks the effects of opioids in the body.

The medications, when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, can improve survival, increase retention in treatment, decrease illicit opioid use and criminal activity, and increase the ability to gain employment, according to the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

"We want to be available when the clients are ready for help."

Andrea Mankee,Community Medical Services
Jasmine Banks was not an outdoorsy person  yet -- until one day in 2021 when she heard a local Black Oxygen podcast hosted by Angela Russell. Russell was interviewing Dexter Patterson, one of the founders of the Madison-based BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin.

His excitement and enthusiasm about birding was infectious, Banks said of Patterson  also known on Instagram as the popular and entertaining Wisco Birder.

Earlier that year, Patterson and one of his birding friends and mentors, Jeff Galligan, had started a grassroots, volunteer-run club to promote birding and outdoor experiences for people of color and anyone else who valued diversity, equity, inclusion and access for all.

Banks was intrigued. The next time the BIPOC Birding Club held an outing she went, and took her daughter and granddaughter with her. It was amazing, she recalls of that first field trip.

It was so welcoming. Id always envisioned birders to be these white guys with binoculars and a fishing-fly vest," she said. "And this was a cool vibe. We saw an incredible array of birds  even an owl.

The BIPOC Birding Club is just one of a growing number of organizations in Madison aimed at getting more people outdoors with eyes towards the treetops and skies. Feeling welcome is key.

Birding can bring so much joy, but it is also kind of an intimidating hobby, said Caitlyn Schuchhardt, a member of the rapidly growing women- and queer-friendly Feminist Bird Club-Madison Chapter.

Without a group, some people might not feel comfortable heading into a park or nature preserve alone, she said. Or they might think the amount of knowledge needed to spot and identify birds is overwhelming.

Thats where I think all of the inclusive birding spaces we have in Madison absolutely excel, said Schuchhardt. They take away the pressure so that participants can simply enjoy the beauty that it is, the joy that its giving you.

And increasingly, birding groups are bold with their message: Nature should be shared by all.

It was illegal in so many places for people of color to be in these (settings) not so long ago, said the BIPOC Birding Club's Galligan, who also serves on the boards of Madison Audubon and the Aldo Leopold Nature Center.

Because the whole outdoor recreation movement began in middle-class suburbia, where there werent people of color, it was never even part of the lives of many people who grew up in this country who were not white, he said. And that should change.

A prime time

Right now its high season for birding, as waves of migrating birds pass through the Madison area during the next several weeks on their way to summer destinations.

Many groups and individuals are participating in the Great Wisconsin Birdathon, the equivalent of a walkathon for both beginner and experienced birders, who through June 15 can make or gather donations for bird conservation through the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin.

Meanwhile, Madison is making itself known as a national hub for inclusive birding, both Schuchhardt and Galligan say.

That includes Friends of Urban Nature, a Madison-based partnership of public, private and volunteer groups that has frequent and free outings for the public, often in Madison parks and especially geared to families and children. Madison Audubon does a wide range of programming year-round, and also partners with nonprofits such as Access Ability Wisconsin to provide outdoor wheelchairs for birding, and with the Wisconsin Council of the Blind and Visually Impaired to run classes in birding by ear.

Madison Audubon also is in the midst of a name change  to emphasize that we welcome individuals of every sexual orientation and identity, race, ability, religion, and economic status, as the groups website proclaims.

In 2020, articles about the racist actions of the 19th-centural naturalist and artist John James Audubon, the groups namesake, spurred many chapters of National Audubon to vote to drop the Audubon from their name. Madison Audubon has now joined them and is looking for suggestions for a new name, to be announced by the end of the year, said communications and outreach director Brenna Marsicek. The madisonaudubon.org website contains a lengthy explanation for the name change.

88 years

Founded in 1935 as the Madison Bird Club and renamed Madison Audubon in 1949, the organization serves 10 counties in south-central Wisconsin, restores bird habitat and has an active citizen scientist program. It also collaborates regularly with groups such as the Feminist Bird Club and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and people of color) Birding Club, Marsicek said.

We know each other. We talk often. We partner often on different outings and different events," she said.

We at Madison Audubon really support what those groups are doing, and in no way feel any sort of competitiveness  or weirdness  about all these different birding groups existing in one place.

While Madison Audubon is working hard at making our birding circle more inclusive and diverse, we have a long history of being pretty exclusively white, and relatively affluent, Marsicek said. We love our members, but these other groups like the BIPOC Birding Club and the Feminist Bird Club are making really big strides in making sure that, from the get-go, anyone who wants to go birding feels welcome and accepted.

Theyre definitely making a positive change in the community, and we hope to as well, she said. Honestly, we think the more birders there are, the better. This is a community effort.

Binoculars on request

Birding is more fun with a good view, and most groups provide binoculars on their outings for those who dont own a pair.

Last year, the Feminist Bird Club-Madison Chapter went a step further. It purchased birding backpacks for the public to borrow from any Madison Public Library branch, using money raised during the Great Wisconsin Birdathon. Library card holders can now check out a backpack containing two pairs of binoculars, birding books and maps highlighting good spots for birding in Madison.

It's another way to remove barriers to birding, said Schuchhardt, who joined the Feminist Bird Club in 2019 as a way to meet people. She was a complete birding novice at the time, she said, but the experience changed her life.

I asked myself, Do I know anything about birds? No. But I like to be outside, I like to go hiking. I wanted to find a community of people who like to be outside, she recalled.

On her first outing with the group, to the Lewis Nine Springs E-Way, We ended up seeing over 90 species. I had no idea there were so many birds I could find in one spot right here in Madison, she said.

Really, it was this experience of I am seeing the world in a completely new way -- and its just blowing my mind.

The volunteer-run Feminist Bird Club, a chapter of the national FBC, has grown so fast that it now has to cap the size of groups at its outings to make sure everyone feels included and has a good experience, Schuchhardt said.

The group's mission is to promote inclusivity in birding by providing a safe space and a safe experience for members of the Queer community, for people of color and for women to connect with the natural world, she said. We are not a women-only birding group  we are open to anyone who aligns to that sort of social justice aspect of our mission.

More than 300 people attended FBC events last year, and another 200 subscribe to its monthly email newsletter.

Through birding, I found a community, Schuchhardt said. The joy seekers. The people that know that hidden amongst all the nature surrounding us are these little bundles of joy and adorableness and weirdness, all around us. Its like theres a special hidden world that were sitting right next to that birding lets you see.

Banding, kayaks

Technology has been a boon to birders, who now have access to online tools like Merlin, an app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology that can identify birds by call. Beginners can even get started by watching the birds outside their door. Mostly, it's a matter of just jumping in.

Weve had a lot of people of color say, Ive wanted to come out (to try birding) but I didnt know how to, Galligan said. We try to give them that vehicle. And thats awesome. Thats what were here for.

The BIPOC Birding Club now has a chapter in Milwaukee and frequently travels there for rich birding opportunities near Lake Michigan. Along with drop-in outings in the Madison area, it also organizes trips for bird banding and birding by kayak.

The adventure extends beyond the wonder and beauty of birds. Ive seen a lot of places because I was going out birding, Galligan said. Sunrises, sunsets in places, some obscure country road somewhere. And its really cool, because Ive seen places that I wouldnt have if I hadnt been looking for that bird.

For Banks, who first heard about birding on the Black Oxygen podcast, the BIPOC Birding Club has led to many new paths. She took on a 52-Hike Challenge with her two older sisters. Shes introducing her granddaughter to camping. And earlier this spring she trained to become a volunteer leader with Outdoor Afro, a national, intergenerational group designed to reconnect Black people and Black communities to nature year-round.

As for her first birding outing in Madison two years ago, It is highly unlikely that, as a Black woman, I would have gone to an event like this in an all-white space, she said.

Its beautiful to go into a space where I dont have to explain anything about myself," she said. "And thats what I get when I go to an event with the BIPOC Birding Club.
A 54-year-old former nurse from Janesville has agreed to plead guilty to tampering with vials of the highly addictive painkiller fentanyl in her former job at a Janesville hospital, the federal prosecutors announced Monday.

Dawn Drum will plead guilty to product tampering in the incidents that happened in November 2021 at SSM Health St. Marys Hospital, according to the U.S. attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin.

According to information filed with a plea agreement:

Drum tampered with vials of fentanyl by withdrawing the drug from the vials and replacing it with saline and then resealing the vial stopper with what appeared to be superglue. Drum then put the tampered vials back into a Pyxis machine, an automated medication-dispensing system, so that the tampered fentanyl vials would be available for use with other patients at the hospital.

An audit of Drums Pyxis transactions  which found an excessive pattern of fentanyl overrides compared to other employees, and that Drum had recorded wasting a large number of fentanyl doses in their entirety  raised suspicions for hospital management, which confronted her and asked her to take a drug test. She refused and instead resigned her position as a registered nurse.

Under the plea agreement, prosecutors and Drums attorney are each recommending that U.S. District Judge William Conley sentence Drum to 18 months in prison and a $30,000 fine. The maximum penalty for the crime is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

No date has been set for Drums plea hearing.
A developer is proposing a 14-story housing project with swimming pool and commercial space as the next step of reshaping still-booming East Washington Avenue.

Willow Partners of Madison hopes to demolish a two-story, 33,790-square-foot building at 702 E. Washington Ave. formerly used by QTI Group and still occupied by the U.S. Postal Service. Preliminary concepts show a 14-story, U-shaped building with 269 apartments, 10,355 square feet of commercial space, and 263 structured parking spaces. The site also includes a vacant property at 734 E. Washington Ave.

The proposal will evolve based on input from city Planning Division staff, Ald. Marsha Rummel, 6th District, the neighborhood and local small businesses, Willow managing partner Christopher Houden Jr. said.

"We own the site currently," he said. "We believe there is an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing renaissance of the East Washington corridor."

The preliminary concepts show a mix of 35 studios, 163 one-bedroom, 59 two-bedroom and 12 three-bedroom units.

"We believe there is depth to absorb this development and others in the pipeline for the city," Houden said. "Economic growth continues, an ode to the city and its development process."

Willow is exploring options to include some lower-cost units, Houden said.

"We will not be requesting any city subsidy for the project," he said.

The preliminary concepts show one level of underground and two levels of above-ground parking, with a lobby, leasing office and 4,300 square feet of first-floor retail space facing East Washington Avenue, with more parking and 6,055 square feet of commercial space on the second floor. The third floor would feature a rooftop deck, an 880-square-foot pool, and 2,965 square feet of amenity space.

"We would like to elevate the community amenities available. This would mean a mixture of retail/restaurant space that all of the surrounding community members can enjoy," Houden said. "The amenity stack would be similar to other market rate developments. Again, the design is highly conceptual, and we will organize the suite of amenities as the community process evolves."

The design is still in progress, but, Houden said, "Conceptually, we want the exterior facade to equal or go beyond the standard for higher-end, market-rate apartment communities."

Willow attended a Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood Association meeting in late April to introduce the project, and those attending wanted the developer to consider affordable housing and ground-floor amenities with a community focus, Rummel said.

"I've seen the preliminary concept and like the U-shaped building facing East Washington," she said. "I have not seen more-detailed renderings."

Rummel said she asked Willow to consider whether some of the units could be owner-occupied and Houden replied that he is willing to investigate that option.

"I will be holding a neighborhood meeting soon to present details and get feedback," Rummel said.

The existing structure has parts built in 1925 and 1979 and was remodeled in 1998. It includes office and warehouse space and was assessed at $3.5 million for 2023. QTI already has relocated from the space and the Postal Service lease ends in the spring of 2024.

As presented in preliminary plans, the development would first require an ordinance amendment to Urban Design District 8 to adjust the allowable heights because it's currently taller than what that code allows, city principal planner Kevin Firchow said. This would be a separate process from the development, would require review by the Urban Design and Plan commissions, and be decided by the City Council.

The development itself would need Urban Design Commission approval because it's in the Urban Design District, and Plan Commission approval for demolition and conditional uses, Firchow said.

Willow intends to submit formal land use plans to the city in August and hopes to start construction in the spring of 2024, perhaps completing the project in two years, Houden said.

Photos: Take a visual tour of the historic Madison Club's recently renovated third floor Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club Madison Club
With opioid overdose deaths at record levels in Wisconsin and Dane County, a new clinic opening in Madison this month will be the fifth in the city licensed to provide methadone, one of three medications approved to treat opioid use disorder.

Community Medical Services, or CMS, an Arizona-based company that operates three of Wisconsins 25 methadone clinics, or opioid treatment programs, is opening a clinic at 4802 East Broadway, north of the Beltline and east of Highway 51, or Stoughton Road. A ribbon cutting is taking place Monday, with the clinic expected to open for patients May 24.

Like other methadone clinics in Madison and elsewhere, the new CMS clinic will also offer other forms of medication-assisted treatment for addiction, which include buprenorphine, or Suboxone, and naltrexone, or Vivitrol. It will also provide counseling and peer support services.

"There was a lot of need and a lot of requests for us to come out there," said Andrea Mankee, senior operations manager of new markets for CMS.

The clinic will be open 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, Mankee said. The city's other clinics close by 1 to 2 p.m. on weekdays and by 9 to 10 a.m. on weekends.

"Our focus is on getting people healthy and getting them employment and their family back," she said. "We wanted to make it a lot more convenient ... We want to be available when the clients are ready for help."

Wisconsin had 1,427 opioid overdose deaths in 2021, 16.3% more than the previous record in 2020 and more than double the toll from just six and seven years earlier, with fentanyl fueling much of the increase, officials say.

In Dane County, 139 people died from opioid overdoses in 2021, 13% higher than the previous record the year before, according to the state Department of Health Services.

Two methadone clinics opened in Madison in 2018, doubling the citys total.

Addiction Services and Pharmacotherapy, on East Olin Avenue near John Nolen Drive, was started by family medicine doctors who have worked at Madison hospitals. Psychological Addiction Services is on East Washington Avenue near Aberg Avenue. It is in the same building as the former Madison Health Services, a methadone clinic that closed several years ago.

The other methadone clinics in the city are owned by Acadia Healthcare. Its Madison East Comprehensive Treatment Center is on World Dairy Drive on the Southeast Side, a mile from the new CMS clinic. Acadias Madison West Comprehensive Treatment Center is on East Badger Road on the South Side.

Acadia, based in Franklin, Tennessee, plans to open a 120-bed psychiatric hospital on Madisons Far East Side by December 2024. The facility, in the High Crossing development east of Interstate 39-90-94 and south of Highway 151, will treat adults with substance use disorder, among other conditions, officials have said.

Other clinics and providers prescribe buprenorphine or naltrexone, including Monarch Health Addiction Recovery Clinics, which opened in 2020 in Downtown Madison, at the corner of East Washington Avenue and South Blair Street.

CMS has more than 60 methadone clinics and prison programs in 10 states, including clinics in Fond du Lac, South Milwaukee and West Allis. It plans to open a clinic in Pewaukee.

Statewide, 12,970 patients were treated at the states methadone clinics in 2021, including 1,486 in Dane County.

Methadone and buprenorphine are synthetic opioids that can reduce cravings and prevent withdrawal for people addicted to opioids. Naltrexone, an injection taken every four weeks, blocks the effects of opioids in the body.

The medications, when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies, can improve survival, increase retention in treatment, decrease illicit opioid use and criminal activity, and increase the ability to gain employment, according to the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
No one so far can outperform former President Donald Trumps blame-the-media shtick of taunts and tweets. But Ron DeSantis knows the act plays well with the GOP base, so Floridas governor and potential presidential candidate joins in, though far less flamboyantly.

A few pages into his new book, The Courage to Be Free: Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival, DeSantis blandly asserts: A lot of the problems weve seen foisted on the public might not have happened had we had a media that was interested in pursuing the truth rather than furthering partisan narratives.

Thats hardly a rousing call to arms, but its a message, mastered by Trump, that still resonates with millions of citizens.

Nearly any place Americans are willing to talk about current affairs and politics  from the local McDonalds to the halls of Congress  a listener might easily gauge prevailing attitudes toward journalism by asking a few simple questions:

Do you trust journalists to tell the truth?

Does the mainstream press report impartially and fairly?

Is news in general politically slanted to favor liberals?

The answers might come quickly, with certainty and without reservation: No. Theyre all a bunch of liars. I wouldnt read anything published in lamestream media. In fact, opinion polls confirm that millions of Americans distrust journalism. Gallup reported last October that 38% of U.S. adults had no confidence that the media will report news fully, accurately and fairly.

OUR VIEW: Sarah Godlewski should leave elections alone Wisconsin's secretary of state has no role in overseeing voting -- thank goodness

The findings  sadly a new high (or low)  do not amount to breaking news. Rather its additional evidence that the far-rights sustained anti-media campaign has done its job to weaken mainstream journalism and strengthen what the late Roger Ailes espoused as our own news when he headed Fox News between 1996 and 2016.

Few skeptical citizens can explain their disdain for journalism beyond reciting simple catch phrases such as fake news or media bias. Even fewer, perhaps, understand they target an institution the Founders counted on to keep citizens informed and engaged.

The aspirational language of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights helped the Founders craft an ethic of citizenship they believed necessary for a republican (small r) form of government to succeed. Citizens needed to talk (and argue) responsibly, communicating with strangers as well as neighbors. They relied on early journalism as a guide and stimulus.

Today, despite major damage to its credibility, journalism in its various forms continues to play an integral role in assisting responsible citizenship and encouraging dialogue and deliberation necessary for we the people to self-govern, with a couple of caveats: As long as journalism is appreciated and available. Increasingly, neither is the case.

Not long ago, a weekly or daily newspaper served nearly every American city of more than 5,000 residents. They were read, passed around and depended on to keep community members in touch with one another. Now we refer to news deserts where no thorough local news coverage exists, or ghost towns, slang for places where the local newspaper is a ghost of its former self, holding on with a handful of editors and reporters, perhaps just one.

In communities without active journalism, media researchers report that governmental bodies grow lax and residents disengage from politics, with some forgoing voting. Unfortunately, partisan opportunists welcome citizen lethargy.

Without journalists on duty, your town  any town  sometimes never learns what issues need attention in the first place, such as toxins in public drinking water, bullying at a middle school, abuse at an assisted-living facility, or worse. Stories on vital topics like these appear regularly  where news hasnt dried up. Thanks to a resolute family-owned newspaper established in 1905, the residents of tiny McCurtain County, Oklahoma, learned that behind closed doors, local government officials stunningly discussed killing the publishers son for his investigative reporting and reminisced about lynching Black people.

When we refer to journalists, we do not mean pundits and talk-show hosts such as Sean Hannity of Fox News or Joy Reid of MSNBC. Though popular for different reasons, neither represents the workaday press. We worry most about further loss of serious journalists who typically labor in anonymity and in places seldom visited by media celebrities. We worry, too, if civic-minded undergraduates even will consider journalism careers in the future, given the array of false and dismissive accusations.

The vast majority of journalists arent against us, theyre for us. They would never report lies or intentionally provide liars a platform, as Fox News hosts did in promoting the stop-the-steal zealots. While we generalize, we can safely and fairly say this about reporters and editors we know firsthand, including many weve taught:

They get irked when encountering powerful people taking advantage of the powerless.

They seldom take no for an answer from recalcitrant public officials who will not speak candidly to their constituents.

They seek the truth and strive for accuracy, with no detail too small to go unverified.

They remind themselves to be open-minded and empathic toward the people they write about and those who provide them with information and insights.

They filter out hearsay, sift through dubious claims and prioritize their assignments in service to readers or viewers while never forgetting their role to amplify the voices of those without the means or opportunities to be heard on their own.

They put their own worries aside for the benefit of the community. When a tornado knocks out power and destroys their own homes, they step through debris and downed power lines to tell the story.

They report, write and comment despite rising threats on their lives and their families, as the Washington Post spotlighted in a recent editorial: More and more, trolls and haters attack female journalists. Foreign correspondents willingly insert themselves in harms way when keeping the world informed about wars and atrocities. At home, reporters face intimidation for covering increasingly volatile public meetings and chaotic news scenes.

They dont sit and wait for fire alarms to sound. They search proactively for information citizens most need, and they search frequently where the publics business occurs.

They often forsake lucrative careers for one with a median hourly pay under $20 an hour.

The job includes the ostensibly mundane, such as sitting through lengthy government meetings, confirming details of traffic accidents, scouring line items in municipal budgets or checking out police incident reports. But thats how important issues usually come to citizens awareness, not through Twitter feeds, talk-show patter or public relations statements.

Anonymous GOP lawmaker who canceled park funding is a coward STATE JOURNAL VIEW: A GOP senator or representative killed funding for a land conservation project and doesnt have the backbone to own that decision.

While others in public service  dedicated teachers, clergy, social workers, firefighters, law enforcement officers  rightly earn thanks and praise often, many in journalism hear only slurs and complaints. When exposed to a truer, fuller perspective of workaday journalism, citizens might question the legitimacy of such warped, simplistic depictions as the enemy of the people.

All major institutions in a democracy make mistakes, and, when necessary, citizens must critique those who bring us the news. But lets judge the profession with informed opinions and evidence, not simply baseless, echoed putdowns, whether they arise from conversations at Kims Cafe, on Fox News programs or in the pages of a presidential aspirants homily.
An elderly woman struggling with constant pain from fractures seemed inconsolable until Stephanie Savoie started asking questions and discovered that her patient loved the music of Engelbert Humperdinck.

Savoie, a clinical nurse specialist and manager of the Acute Care for Elders team at University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, obtained a CD of the British crooner's music and dropped it off for her patient.

"She kisses the CD case and tells me she had gone to his concerts," Savoie recalled. "I put on the CD, and she closed her eyes. In that moment, as she listened, she wasn't in pain or distressed by her situation. It's not always the science of nursing that's needed. It's the art of nursing."

Savoie works with hospital staff to help identify non-drug interventions to reduce disruptive behaviors that often accompany patients with dementia and delirium, although the unit works with a variety of geriatric ailments.

Those can include fidget blankets, which have zippers, attachments and different kinds of fabric that can occupy elderly patients, baby dolls and puzzles.

"These interventions are based on a patient's individual interests," she said. "These non-drug interventions take time and resources, which can be a bit of a challenge in a busy acute-care hospital. Our team can get the information and tailor the interventions that are most meaningful."

One of the job's biggest satisfactions is stepping in to help nurses and other medical professionals solve problems and make elderly patients happier and more comfortable, Savoie said.

Savoie has also applied for and received grants to supply activity kits, comfort items and fidget toys so older patients have ways to pass the time and avoid the use of restraints, sedating drugs and antipsychotics.

A 13-year nursing veteran, Savoie is a regular speaker during training sessions for new staff sharing tools and knowledge so staffers can help older adults, especially those with dementia and delirium.

Savoie's supervisor, Alysia Hanson, said Savoie is a leader dedicated to improving the care of hospitalized older adults.

"Stephanie's commitment and advocacy for our geriatric population is admirable," Hanson said. "I'm grateful to have Stephanie on the frontlines of ensuring that this vulnerable population receives remarkable care."

Savoie, a native of Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., received her bachelor's degree in nursing at Northern Michigan University and a master's from Michigan State. Although she started college with the idea of becoming a secondary school history teacher, she soon realized that path wasn't working.

"I tried to figure out what I wanted to do and ultimately it came down to wanting to help people. Nursing was a good fit, and I haven't looked back since," she said.

"Stephanie's commitment and advocacy for our geriatric population is admirable. I'm grateful to have Stephanie on the frontlines of ensuring that this vulnerable population receives remarkable care."

Alysia Hanson, DNP, RN, supervisor for Stephanie A. Savoie
NEW YORK  A homeowner fired shots at a couple's car when they mistakenly turned onto his property while making an Instacart delivery. A Florida man was charged with killing and dismembering an Uber Eats delivery driver who brought food to his home. A woman was kidnapped and sexually assaulted while making a DoorDash delivery to a hotel.

Ride-hailing and food delivery companies say such violent episodes are rare among the millions of trips completed each week, and point to numerous safety measures they have taken over the years.

But the three attacks, which occurred within days of each other in Florida last month, sent new ripples of fear among some app-based drivers, who say company safety policies are still better geared toward customers than workers.

Winifred Kinanda, who sometimes drives for Instacart in the San Francisco Bay Area, said she never felt unsafe making deliveries for the grocery app until she heard about the Florida couple. That day, she got an Instacart order and constantly checked to make sure she had the right address, saying she felt particularly vulnerable as a person of color.

It got me scared, said Kinanda, an immigrant from Kenya who also drives for Uber and Lyft to supplement her income as an elder caregiver. At the end of the day, being Black is really hard. People see us and think we are doing something wrong.

A Pew Research Center poll in 2021 found that 16% of people in the U.S. had earned money from an online gig platform. That poll found that 35% of them have felt unsafe while doing those jobs, including 19% who said they had experienced unwanted sexual advances.

Ride-hailing and delivery driving are among the deadliest occupations in the country, according to occupational fatalities and injury data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which includes delivery workers for companies like Instacart and DoorDash in its driver/sales category and Uber and Lyft drivers in its taxi category. While most deaths and injuries are from traffic accidents, the data also shows drivers are more at risk of assaults than other occupations.

The activist group Gig Workers Alliance said on-the-job deaths and injuries among gig workers are almost certainly undercounted because the companies are not obligated to report such incidents to government agencies for workers who are not direct employees. The group also said that other sources, such as police reports, may not note that a gig driver was working when they were killed.

In a new report, Gig Workers Rising said its own research found that 80 app-based workers have been victims of homicides while on the job between 2017 and 2022. The majority were ride-hailing drivers, but at least 20 delivery workers were also killed, according to the report, which relied on press accounts, court records and police reports.

More difficult to quantify are threats that gig drivers encounter frequently but rarely make headlines, including traffic accidents, robberies, carjackings and harassment. While Uber and Lyft have released safety reports that includes some of that data, the major food delivery apps do not, and Uber does not do so for Uber Eats trips.

Roberto Moreno, 48, stopped working as both a ride-hailing and food deliver driver in San Diego County at the beginning of this year because of safety concerns.

Moreno said he joined a WhatsApp group with other Latino gig drivers to support each other while they were on the job, from helping each other with flat tires to activating geolocation during shifts for safety.

We have to look out for ourselves because the companies dont do it, said Moreno, who worked for Grubhub and Postmates, which was bought out by Uber Eats in 2020, as well as Lyft and Uber.

Drivers also complain they cant be sure who is getting into their cars because its too easy for riders to use fake names, nicknames or order rides for other people.

The companies have drivers take a selfie, do background checks on us (and) collect all of our personal information said Moreno, who belongs to a driver-led union called Rideshare Drivers United. But we dont know anything about the passengers or the people who were delivering to.

In response to those concerns, Uber said it started an audit last fall of rider accounts and began freezing those with obviously fake names. The company also has an extra layer of verification for users who use anonymous forms of payment such as prepaid cards.

We have heard loud and clear from drivers that they want more information about who they are picking up, Uber said in a statement.

Critics also say gig workers are more vulnerable because as contract workers, they often don't have the right to benefits such as worker compensation or health insurance. DoorDash and Instacart both provide free automatic insurance for on-the job injuries or deaths, while Uber and Lyft offer drivers insurance policies for accidents.

DoorDash, Grubhub, Instacart, Uber and Lyft have added safety features to their apps over the years, including emergency buttons that allow people to silently connect with emergency services or private security, and GPS-sharing features that allow friends or family to track rides.

DoorDash last fall introduced new technology to automatically check in on a worker if a delivery is taking longer than expected, while Grubhub is rolling out a new feature this year that will send ID and location data to emergency responders if workers call 911 via the app.

Cities with the most delivery drivers per capita Cities With the Most Delivery Drivers per Capita Ecommerce and delivery services skyrocketed during COVID The states with the most delivery drivers per capita Small and midsize metros with the most delivery drivers per capita 15. Kansas City, MO-KS 14. Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA 13. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI 12. Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX 11. Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC 10. Oklahoma City, OK 9. Nashville-DavidsonMurfreesboroFranklin, TN 8. Raleigh, NC 7. Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT 6. Salt Lake City, UT 5. Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI 4. Columbus, OH 3. Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN 2. Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN 1. Memphis, TN-MS-AR
Sun Valley Wine Auction Benefit set for June 27-30

The Sun Valley Museum of Art in Ketchum will host the 42nd annual Sun Valley Wine Auction Benefit for the Arts from June 27-30, which has provided funding for the museums arts education programming since 1981.

The benefit will feature four days of gastronomical adventures including vintner dinners featuring award-winning chefs and winemakers, according to a news release, plus educational symposia, a pig roast and the River Ranch Wine Walk along Bigwood River.

For more than five decades, SVMoA has shared a rich diversity of cultural arts programming with the entire Wood River Valley. Through the generosity of our wine auction patrons, we are able to bring the best in contemporary art and arts education to our community, Jennifer Wells Green, the museums executive director, said in the release. We are grateful to everyone who engages, participates, and supports this longstanding event every summer.

For more information or to buy tickets, go online to www.sunvalleywineauction.org.

Idaho ranks No. 10 for worst mental health

Idaho ranks No. 10 in the United States for worst mental health care, according to a study released this month by Forbes.

Arizona (No. 7) and Wyoming (No. 8) were the only Western states to score worse than Idaho, which has an especially percentage of youth who had a major depressive episode in the past year who didnt receive mental health treatment (67.1%) and percentage of children with private health insurance that doesnt cover mental or emotional problems (12.2%), according to Forbes.

Texas ranked worst in the study, followed by Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. The state with the best mental health care: Vermont.

Over 50 million Americans have a mental illness, but more than half (55%) of adults with a mental illness dont receive treatment, according to Forbes, which used seven metrics to compare all 50 states and Washington, D.C., to determine its rankings.

Also:

The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Idaho was $3.75 on Monday, up four cents from last week and 20 cents higher than a month ago, according to AAA Idaho . The national average was down seven cents to $3.54.

. The national average was down seven cents to $3.54. The district staff for Idaho Rep. Mike Simpson will host mobile office hours in Hansen and Kimberly on Wednesday, beginning with a discussion from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the city of Hansen Community Room, 340 Main St. Lunch will follow from noon to 1 p.m. at Ageless Senior Center in Kimberly, 310 Main St.

 Times-News
Touring around southern Idaho last week, I wandered through places I hadnt visited in a while to check on their progress. For better or worse, I didnt observe a lot of surprises.

Until I got to downtown Twin Falls, and it gave me pause for thought.

For some years, mainly in the years before and after the turn of the century, I made my way regularly to Twin, mainly for watching updates in the Snake River water adjudication. The city itself I noticed in passing as not changing enormously, other than gradually expanding commerce along Blue Lakes Boulevard  the northern entryway into town from the Snake River Canyon  and along a few of the commercial arterials along it.

Twin Falls never seemed to decline or stagnate, and it never seemed less than at least reasonably prosperous. But for much of the time I watched it, it didnt seem to change a lot either. It didnt develop or change, at least from what I could see on the surface. You could see some of this in the population stats for much of the 20th century. Twins population in 1960 was 20,126; in 1990 it was 27,591, a reasonable increase but nothing earth-shattering.

Quote Twin Falls ... is becoming more diverse and even more cosmopolitan. It may become a different kind of creature in the years ahead. As such, it could become something of a template for other Idaho communities, too.

Now, as of 2020, three decades on, the population has abruptly exploded, to 51,807: It is, roughly, twice the city I generally was accustomed to years ago.

I hadnt stopped by for some years but last month I stopped in downtown for a coffee visit, and exited my car in what seemed like a city that hadnt existed not so long before.

Downtown in Twin was years ago pleasant but low-key and a little old-fashioned, and areas along its periphery were starting to go quiet or even vacant. No more. Its now packed with new businesses  and older ones that have upgraded. Downtown is loaded with new restaurants, shopping and more. Theres new downtown residential development, in part to service the corporations that have been developing offices nearby. Theres a large, open civic area, home now to various civic events, overseen by a great statue of one of the areas pioneers.

City hall, rebuilt out of an old department store building, has  without being extravagant  become one of the most innovative and even flashy public buildings anywhere in the state.

Twin Falls still has issues, of course. Currently, many of those  stresses of traffic, resources, and within the lives of people  seem to be issues growing out of rapid growth. It also has found some advantages it is trying to exploit.

Some of where this growth came from is clear enough. In the last generation, population centers within regions have typically come at the expense of the regions smaller communities, or rural areas. (The Magic Valley minus Twin Falls County  but including Elmore County  grew in population by 37.7% from 1990 to 2020, while Twin Falls County grew by 66.4%). Changes in agribusiness, in dairy and other products, have helped, as have good roadway networks; much of this in the Magic Valley has become increasingly centralized around Twin Falls. Local civic advocates would point out other advantages as well.

Where all this goes is another question. Does Twin Falls become an urban center in a way it hasnt to now  maybe beyond what Idaho Falls and Pocatello do in their regions, more like what Boise is becoming in the context of Idaho overall? Hang around the downtown and you might start to think so.

Consider this idea: The nature of Twin Falls is breaking away from, growing apart from, the nature of the Magic Valley around it.

Twin Falls, its ongoing struggle with air transportation notwithstanding, is becoming more diverse and even more cosmopolitan. It may become a different kind of creature in the years ahead. As such, it could become something of a template for other Idaho communities, too.

No place ever stays the same forever. Twin Falls once seemed as if it might. It doesnt seem so now.
The National Grid Corp. of the Philippines placed the Luzon grid on red alert status today from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. amid lack of supply.

This means there is a possibility of rotating brownouts in different areas, although Manila Electric Co. had not announced any manual load dropping schedule.

Five power plants are on forced outage, while three others are running on derated capacities, for a total of 1,354MW unavailable to the grid, NGCP said.

NGCP also placed the Luzon grid on yellow alert from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. amid the forecasted continuing thin power supply.

NGCP said peak demand was forecasted at 12,468 megawatts, while available capacity was only at 12,186 MW.

A red alert status is issued when power supply is insufficient to meet consumer demand and the transmission grids regulating requirement.

A yellow alert is issued when the operating margin is insufficient to meet the transmission grids regulating and contingency requirement.

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Joint patrols between the United States and the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea might start in the third quarter of this year, Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Babe Romualdez said on Monday.

Were already at a I would call continuing discussions on this joint patrol with the United States. I could guess, an estimate would be no later than the third quarter of this year. We should have that in place, Romualdez said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was at the Naval Shipyard in Cavite City as the guest of honor of the Philippine Navy for the christening of two new patrol gunboats and the blessing of the newly upgraded Naval Shipbuilding Center.

The Navy said the arrival and christening of the two brand-new missile capable Shaldag Mark V (Acero-class patrol gunboats in the PN service) will greatly boost the services capability to protect the countrys littoral (near-shore) zones.

Also, Ambassador Romualdez said Manila and Washington have ceased discussions on identifying new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in the country, as the two sides are now talking on how the nine existing sites will be developed and used.

Department of National Defense officer in charge Carlito Galvez also maintained that the EDCA sites will help the Philippines respond to disasters.

The US is now seeing the Philippines in a different light as the Pentagon gave President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. a military honor parade during his recent visit, according to Romualdez.

Mr. Marcos was the first foreign president to be given full military honors by Washington under President Joe Bidens administration, the ambassador said.

The Philippines and the United States decided to expand cooperation on maritime security through but not limited to joint patrols.

In a fact sheet released by the White House, the US said that under deepening interoperability, the goal is to expand cooperation on maritime security and maritime domain awareness, including through the continued conduct of combined maritime activities, including but not limited to joint patrol.

In March, the Philippine government said it is in the process of crafting guidelines on maritime activities, including joint patrols with allies.

Romualdez also stressed that the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty is now clearer following the meeting between Marcos and US President Joe Biden.

I think that this time, the Mutual Defense Treaty is not only clear but it also sets what are the parameters on how we will proceed in terms of invoking it, the Filipino envoy said.

Both countries had emphasized the need to reaffirm commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty to address both current and emerging threats.

Mr. Marcos said the decades-old treaty should evolve amid the developing security situation in the region.

Describing Mr. Marcos trip to the US as near perfect despite a couple of meetings that did not happen because of a tight schedule, Romualdez said: I would like to say its near perfect because everything weve planned for that trip came into fruition, so to speak.

On the EDCA sites, Romualdez stressed the US has started focusing on preparing for eventualities, which were the reasons why the Philippines and the US in the first place are working towards strengthening their military alliance.

A lot of these sites have been chosen because of disaster preparedness, which is very importantthats one point, the Filipino envoy said, in an interview with ANC.

They [The US] are putting a lot of their assets in those identified sites for us to be prepared, or when we can use these sites for deployment of all of these things for any disaster that might happen, Romualdez added.

Contrary to Chinas claims, Romualdez emphasized that the Philippines and the US are not putting these sites directed against any country. These are for us for our defense strategy, he said.

In April, President Marcos allowed access by US troops to four additional Philippine sites.

The four new sites are the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana, Cagayan; Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela; Balabac Island in Palawan; and Lal-lo Airport in Cagayan.

They will join the five existing EDCA that are accessible for joint operations between Philippine and American troops  Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija; Basa Air Base in Pampanga; Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan; Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu; and Lumbia Air Base in Cagayan De Oro.

The US said the new locations will strengthen the interoperability of the US and Philippine Armed Forces and allow them to respond more seamlessly together to address a range of shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, including natural and humanitarian disasters.

In a press conference following an interagency meeting to discuss preparations for the countrys hosting of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), Galvez said the EDCA sites were able to respond to recent maritime disasters, including the sinking of vessels as well as the search for the missing tourists off Tubbataha.

Galvez said the Philippines will maximize the use of EDCA in order to protect our tourism industry and at the same time respond to disasters, pointing out that the Philippines is most vulnerable to climate change.

As I have said earlier, the preparations of the EDCA is also for disaster risk reduction and also for climate change. if you look at the strategic areas that we have, these are the isolated areas especially those.. in the north and also those in Palawan, Galvez said.

As you can see most of disasters are related to also those EDCA sites because most of the disasters we have right now, I think, are 3 instances of sinking vessel. And most of the EDCA sites were able to respond especially those tourists in Tubbataha Reef.

So our inclination is that we will maximize the use of EDCA in order to protect our tourism industry and at the same time respond to disasters as we have the presentation from the Usec in DENR, the Philippines is number 1 much vulnerable to climate change and with that we are prepared for establishing those EDCA sites for that purpose, he added.

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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will leave for Labuan Bajo, Indonesia today (Tuesday afternoon) for the 42nd ASEAN Summit, where he is expected to push for regional security, food and energy security, efforts toward economic recovery, and combating transnational crimes.

He is also expected to press for the upgrading of technical and vocational education training; adopting climate and disaster-resilient technologies and transitioning to renewable and alternative energy technologies; and protection of migrant workers.

The President just returned Sunday from a two-country swing for a five-day official visit to the US and a three-day visit to the UK to attend the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

The Summit began on Monday with the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting (SOM).

The SOM will discuss a number of issues including the priorities of Indonesias chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023, said Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah.

ASEAN Leaders will begin discussions on Wednesday of a number of important issues in order to encourage a stronger ASEAN region in facing challenges, as well as strengthening the blocs economic resilience.

These are in line with the theme of the Indonesian chairmanship, ASEAN Matters: Epicenter of Growth.

The ASEAN leaders will hold interfaces with the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), the ASEAN Youth Representatives, ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), and the High-Level Task Force on the ASEAN Communitys Post-2025 Vision.

The ASEAN leaders are also expected to adopt a roadmap on Timor Lestes full membership in ASEAN.

The Prime Minister of Timor Leste, Taur Matan Ruak, is expected to attend the Summit as an observer for the first time.

Meanwhile, President Marcos will also participate in the 15th Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit to be convened on May 11 under the chairmanship of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Ahead of the Leaders Summit, a convoy of diplomats from ASEAN member-states traveling in Myanmar came under fire from an unknown armed group, a military official and a diplomat said Monday.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since a military coup deposed Aung San Suu Kyis administration in February 2021.

On Sunday a convoy of several vehicles travelling in Taunggyi township in eastern Myanmars Shan State was attacked by an unknown armed group, a foreign diplomat based in Yangon told AFP on condition of anonymity.

A convoy with some diplomats was attacked yesterday morning, the source said.

The convoy was carrying diplomats from the embassies of Indonesia and Singapore and officials coordinating humanitarian relief from the ASEAN regional bloc, they added, noting that no casualties were reported.

A senior military official who did not want to be named confirmed to AFP that a convoy had been fired on.

The officials and diplomats had been traveling Sunday to hand over humanitarian aid, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on Monday.

Regretfully on their way, there was a shootout, he said, without giving any further details. With AFP

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A $1.5 million federal grant will for three years fund programs to help disadvantaged young high school dropouts prepare for better futures.

The U.S. Department of Labor awarded the West Piedmont Workforce Development Board $1,500,000 for the West Piedmont YouthBuild program to serve disadvantaged, skill-deficient and dropout youth ages 16 to 24 in the counties of Henry, Patrick, and Pittsylvania and the cities of Danville and Martinsville.

West Piedmont YouthBuild specifically provides training and supportive services to help participants get dependable employment in construction or healthcare.

The training will take the two-pronged approach of traditional college training along with life skills, called foundational training, geared toward earning a high school diploma or equivalency, along with personal effectiveness of teamwork, leadership, and interpersonal skills, anger and anxiety management, social and emotional intelligence, and grit, according to a press release.

The educational training will be conducted by Patrick & Henry Community College through programs the college already offers.

These are Fast Forward programs for us, said P&HCC Vice President, Workforce, Economic and Community Development Rhonda Hodges: short-term, non credit workforce training programs that lead to industry credentials. Each Fast Forward program lasts between about 10 to 16 weeks, meeting around two nights a week for three or four hours a night, she said.

Those programs grant National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core credentials, which are nationally recognized in the construction industry, she said.

That starts with the prerequisite Core Craft Skills, which focus on basic concepts such as safety, construction math, basic hand tools, power tools and employability skills, she said. Then the student would move on to classes on topics such as carpentry, plumbing, heavy equipment operator and electrical.

The other career pathway offered through this program is in healthcare, with Certified Nurse Aide training, which lasts for one semester, she said.

Stacey Wright is the Virginia Career Works West Piedmont Regional Adult Education Coordinator. Her office is in Rocky Mount and covers Martinsville and Danville and the counties of Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania.

Wrights organization will handle the Integrated Education and Training, referred to as IET: We will be preparing these folks for their strengthening their academic skills, moving them toward high school credentials, work on work readiness, helping them to be successful employees, she said.

In contrast with the structured college classes, the offerings by West Piedmont will be individualized.

Students would attend between 4 to 6 hours a day, for as long as they need, for up to 1 year, also at P&HCC. Teachers would help in individual programs to strengthen academic skills and work on some computer programs.

The first students should begin taking the programs in mid-October, the women estimated.

If we can begin before then we will, said Wright, but we need planning time for instructors and getting materials together.

YouthBuild also is an exciting opportunity for employers to get some quality trained individuals in the industries that we need workers for in this area, Wright said.

The program is really serving employers, as well as giving a leg up for some folks for training they may not have thought about  and make a very good living with it.

These are really great career opportunities for young people to get into and have a nice career pathway, said Hodges.

We need to get more youth into those pathways, because about a third of that labor force is expected to age out within the next 10 years, Hodges said.

An important component of the West Piedmont YouthBuild program is community service. In collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, participants will help construct a house, a press release states.

The grant was a long time in coming; the women worked on the grant application for about a year, Wright said.

Its so critical in our region, said Hodges. We were just very, very excited when they learned that they had won the grant.

Its very fortunate to get the grant as a first-time applicant, said Wright.

The strength of the application was that its very collaborative, everybody working together, pulling together, bringing all the resources together to make this happen, Hodges said.

Virginia Career Works West Piedmont CEO Tyler Freeland stated in the release: This is a great day for our organization and the communities we serve. YouthBuild is the largest grant in the history of the West Piedmont Workforce Development Board. I thank God for granting us this chance to impact the many lives that need our help. I cannot thank our partners and our team enough for the tireless effort they put in that make days like this possible. This opportunity will transform lives in this area for years to come and this will be a springboard for more funding like this.

This program is being launched from the Guided Career Exploration program funded by The Harvest Foundation. Enrollment will begin October 2023, the release states.
Two vehicles collided on Commonwealth Boulevard Monday afternoon, sending one person to the hospital.

Around 1:45 p.m. the 911 Communications Center dispatched Martinsville police and an EMS crew to the intersection of Commonwealth Boulevard and Market Street where two vehicle were involved in what was described as a T-bone collision between a Ford pickup truck and a four-door Honda Accord.

The airbag deployed on the Honda and the dispatcher said the driver said she was bleeding profusely.

Cpt. Sandy Hines was on the scene and told the Bulletin that the driver was taken to Sovah Health in Martinsville, but did not appear to be suffering from a life-threatening injury.

The Honda was stopped on Commonwealth in the westbound lanes with significant damage to the front of the vehicle.

The Ford truck was parked in a nearby parking lot with limited damage. The driver was outside of the truck and appeared to be unhurt.

The intersection was completely blocked for about 30 minutes while workers cleared the roadway of debris and the Honda was removed from the road by a wrecker.

The Martinsville Police Department and Martinsville Fire and EMS responded to the scene.
Before he got down to ceremonially signing a bill that adds a definition of antisemitism to the Code of Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin bent close to hear the message Holocaust survivor Halina Zimm wanted to share:

Hate is wrong, love is right, he repeated, more loudly than her soft voice could, so all of the several dozen people at the Executive Mansion ceremony on Monday afternoon could hear.

When she was a child, Zimms parents were sent to what they hoped was safety in Warsaw, shortly before the Nazis arrived in her Polish hometown. She witnessed the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, hearing the weeping and cries as the Nazis dynamited buildings where Jews had hidden; she was sheltered by a couple who lived across the street from the ghetto, and managed to survive despite being denounced to police and accused of being Jewish.

"I can't imagine what she went through," said Youngkin, who actually signed the measure, sponsored by Del. Anne Ferrell Tata, R-Virginia Beach, in March.

The bill comes from an initiative Youngkin launched on his first day as governor  setting up the nations first state commission to combat antisemitism.

It was an initiative he feels strongly about.

First, Ive had a lot of wonderful Jewish friends over the years, he told the Richmond Times-Dispatch after the ceremony, in a pause between photos with the students of Rudlin Torah Academy, legislators and excited members of the Jewish community.

Second, our nation is founded on Judeo-Christian principles. And this was a promise I made during the campaign, he said.

The bill writes into the Code of Virginia the Working Definition of Antisemitism adopted by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, which says Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.

That definition has generated some criticism because examples of antisemitic expression the alliance uses include some criticisms of the State of Israel.

But Youngkin said he does not understand why any legislator would oppose the measure  25 members of the House of Delegates voted against it while eight state senators did not vote.

Youngkin said the bill would make it easier for police to address hate crime and would help educate Virginians about a form of hatred that is on the rise.

We acknowledged that were in a world where there is hate, in a world where hate has been translated into despicable actions, but we can stand up together and say there is no room for hate in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Youngkin said.

After signing the bill, he addressed reporters' questions about comments that the state's chief diversity, inclusion and equity officer, Martin Brown, made that DEI is dead. Youngkin said Brown's comments reflect recent trends where a moment he feels is important has gone off the rails, by focusing on equal outcomes at any cost, when he said the point should be to encourage diversity and inclusion.

He also said he still believes Virginians will support his proposal to scale back the state's current abortion law, so that it permits abortions only through 15 weeks, instead of through the second trimester and later if doctors say it is necessary. Youngkin backs exceptions in cases of rape, incest or when the woman's life is in jeopardy.
Moroccos Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita said on Sunday that Syrias readmittance into the Arab League must be a launchpoint for a political process to find a comprehensive and long-lasting resolution to the countrys crisis.

The statement came during a session devoted to discussion of the Syrian crisis and the countrys status in the Arab League.

The diplomat drew attention to efforts made by Saudi Arabia to achieve that goal, saying that efforts will make the upcoming Arab summit in Jeddah a real opportunity for the reunification of Arab ranks.

Bourita added that Saudi Arabias efforts are built on the basis that the good does not come with division but rather with unity and complementarity.

He added that the Arab League can be one of the ways into peace and security for the country, as well as a faithful partner to help Syria achieve prosperity and development.

He added that the Arab League states are committed to preserve Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity, and called attention to measures taken previously by said states to help refugees settle peacefully and to counter terrorism int he country

The Moroccan minister recalled the historic ties between Morocco and Syria, stressing that Moroccos King Mohammed VI has always given attention to the Syrian crisis and all its consequences, especially the human ones.

Bourita also expressed regret for what has happened in Syria over the past decade, as the country became embroiled in a complex civil war, expressing that Arab countries had hoped to play a role in de-escalating the conflict but their efforts were impeded by the speed and spread of the events.

Syria was readmitted to the Arab League on Sunday, ending a 12-year old absence after the country was expelled in light of violent treatment of protesters in 2011.

The decision was made in anticipation of the May 19 summit in Saudi Arabia and amid regional normalization with Syrias regime in recent weeks. Morocco was reportedly one of the countries opposed to the countrys readmittance, according to the Wall Street Journal.
The readmission of Syria to the Arab league should serve as a prelude to a political process to find a comprehensive and lasting solution to the conflict in the war-torn country, Moroccos Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita said.

The Arab League readmitted Syria on May 7 after more than a decade of suspension, in a move criticized by Washington.

Bourita, who was addressing a meeting of Arab foreign ministers, said the return of Syria, following a Saudi mediation, stems from a logic of unifying Arab ranks, an endeavor which would be put to a real test during the next Arab League summit in Jeddah.

He highlighted the longstanding ties between Morocco and the Syrian people, recalling that Moroccan troops fought alongside the Syrians in the 1973 war.

The Arab League should play an active role in helping end the infighting in Syria which has dragged for 12 years with a disastrous tally on all aspects of life in the country.

In this respect, Bourita urged concrete action and tangible results on the issues of the safe return of refugees, the delivery of humanitarian aid and the launch of a national reconciliation process along with the fight against all forms of terrorism.

Arab efforts should go in tandem with the efforts of the UN special envoy to Syria to settle the crisis there in a way that safeguards the interests of the Syrian people.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) team that visited Mozambique last Friday called the talks with the authorities to approve the second review of the financial program with the country constructive and fruitful.

The IMF team has held constructive and fruitful talks with the Mozambican authorities on economic and financial policies to support the approval of the second program review under the ECF (Extended Credit Facility) arrangement, it announced in a statement.

A team from the fund led by Pablo Lopez Murphy ended on Friday a visit to the country, which had taken place since April 24, and discussions in the context of the second review will continue in a virtual format and through the office of the IMF resident representative in Maputo.

In todays statement, the IMF staff noted that Mozambiques economic recovery has gained momentum after covid-19, with growth of 4.1% in 2022 and a forecast of 5% this year, thanks in part to natural gas. Fiscal performance in 2022 was lower than forecast, with the primary deficit (after endowments) of around 0.5% of GDP above target, he indicated.

In this regard, the fund team encourages the Government to pursue additional measures to reduce the annual wage bill to its approved budget level, a point it considers critical to safeguard fiscal and macro sustainability.

The Government has made relatively continuous progress on structural reforms that are part of the IMF-funded program, but considers there is room for elimination of further VAT exemptions that do not affect the most vulnerable.

During the visit to Mozambique, the IMF team met with the Prime Minister, Adriano Maleiane, with the Minister of Economy and Finance, Max Tonela, with the Governor of the Bank of Mozambique, Rogerio Zandamela, among others.

The mission also met with representatives of civil society, development partners, and the private sector. The IMF granted a year ago a financing of 470 million dollars (445 million euros), to be applied until 2025.